The Treasure Behind the Mask
I was convinced that if I could just be anyone but me, my life would be so much better. I learned the art of hiding behind a mask.. I thought if I could just hide the real me, then I would be loved and I would be safe from harm. One thing I know now is that God is not ashamed of me or my story. He loves me for who I am, and I don’t have to pretend to be anybody else.
“My Flesh and My Heart May Fail” But God
Control became my idol, although I didn’t recognize it as such for many years. I believed that if I managed my body, I could manage my life — and maybe win people’s approval. But the truth was, I was enslaved to lies. My identity was rooted in performance, not in God’s unchanging love.
FREEdom Story: Walking Towards Freedom
I entered a “mostly recovered” state, which I lived in for a long time. This involved extremely strict rules about food and exercise, and an obsession with performance. It may have been healthier than previous behavior, yet still not a healthy way to live. I certainly was not walking in freedom.
FREEdom Story: No Longer Alone
At 14, I’d spent time in an ED treatment facility. Hearing that my daughter was struggling felt like she was implying that I'd been doing something wrong; maybe she had gotten a message from me that her body needed to be different. What happened brought healing for me and those I met.
The Power of Community
I felt so misunderstood, so alone, and ashamed of my struggles. Nobody in my world felt the intensity of my struggle. Why doesn't anyone "get" me?!
Going Back To School While In ED Recovery
Maybe you spent the summer working hard towards recovery. Perhaps you wanted to, but it didn’t happen. Or possibly the enemy is trying to sneak in and convince you that you're not enough. Keep these three reminders in mind as you return to school and life.
The Gift of Enjoyment
This journey of recovery is full of hills and valleys. It's one step forward and two steps back repeatedly. In this emotional roller coaster where we long to be free, it is so easy to lose sight of our progress. Let's acknowledge the victories!