Hi everyone,
I'm back from my holiday in the sun and, although I had a wonderful time away, I'm glad to be back too so I can get to work again.
While away I had a lot of time to think, to read, and to journal. I came to the conclusion that I need to focus my energy on the things that are going to do the most good. And I need to delegate the things that sap my energy and that other people are just as capable of doing, like looking after the lunches for our Living Room meetings.
One thing I realized that I need to try to do more work on is encouraging a more accepting, more understanding church climate for people with mood disorders. That kind of climate will encourage new Living Room facilitators to come forward. I've been working on that all along with the articles and books I've written, but there's much more work to do. I can't let up.
I remembered a depression seminar I produced many years ago at a church I belonged to. It was a very successful all-day event that drew sixty people. Although that event was secular in nature, this time I'd like to do something specifically for Christians. Help them learn what depression is, what causes it, who is affected, how it is treated. Let them hear stories from people who have dealt with it. Form small discussion groups for people who live with depression and for those who are supporters. We could include a break-out session specifically for pastors and church leaders, because I would try my hardest to draw those to the seminar as well.
This is my dream right now - to organize such a seminar. I'd publicize it widely and try for a big attendance. More than sixty this time. More like a hundred...or more than that even?
Yes, I'm ready to get to work again, praying that my church leadership will give their blessings to my idea. Praying I can get some people to help me make it happen.
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7 comments:
Great ideas Marja, glad you had a good vacation. I wish there was a Living Room in my area.
Hi Coco,
I wish there was a Living Room in your area. I wish there were many more Living Room groups, because Christians with mood disorders need to have a place where they will be understood, have a place to talk about their problems, and encourage each other to have faith.
Have you ever thought of starting a group? Have you checked the Living Room website that explains how?
When I started I didn't think I'd be able to do it. But I'm amazed at what God has helped me to do. By relying on Him all things are possible. I really believe that.
Blessings,
marja
Me again, Coco. On the other hand, a person needs to have time and energy for it. It shouldn't become a source of stress.
Hi Marla,
Glad to hear you had a good time and delighted to hear about your enthusiasm over your Living Room project. Nothing like a project to get excited about! A project helps me to get up in the morning and gives me a reason for living. It is so good to use our talents for something, when we are often prevented from doing so many other things that we cannot. All the best to you!
Hi Wendy,
Yes, a worthwhile project makes ya feel alive, doesn't it?
Dear Marja,
I am glad that you have had a good break. Such time are so precious. Thank God for blessing your time.
Truly, we need to focus our energy on the things that are going to do the most good and delegate the things that sap our energy to other people. I am coming to that realization too and striving slowly to put into practice. Not easy as there are so many things that I love to do :)
May God continue to bless your work to help others at Living Room. I am keeping you in my prayers.
Warm regards,
Nancie
Thank you, Nancie,
Sometimes I wish I could meet you face to face. Would love to talk to you in person.
God bless you,
marja
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