Say the word “family” and a myriad of images comes to mind, a collage of both personal and fabricated images. Images that nonetheless influence thoughts, feelings and beliefs— individually and collectively.
Sadly, no one exits childhood without trauma, some more than others. For many, parents are the instigators of this trauma. Inflicting physical and psychological pain.
My father was a selfish, abusive, alcoholic. Nothing I accomplished measured up to his unrealistic expectations of perfection. Never did I hear him say, “I love you or great job.”
I learned early in life to keep secrets. To do whatever it took to remain invisible. Vulnerability was taboo. Dependency upon others was foolishness.
One of the problems with relational invisibility is that my relationships were superficial, devoid of intimacy and trust. Nevertheless, nothing quieted the deep seeded longing I had for relationships in which I could be myself without fear of rejection.
Overtime this superficiality and distrust took a toll. Despondent and desperate I resigned myself to living on the outside, alone— even in a crowd.
Thankfully, that voice has been silenced! My heavenly Father— Papa rescued me. Enveloping me in His healing love. Reassuring me I was His beloved.
Overtime those childhood scars healed. No longer wrecking havoc in my life because I chose to believe Papa when He tells me:
“For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,” says the Lord, “plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
Knowing You shaped me, inside and out. You knitted me together in my mother’s womb long before I took my first breath.
I will offer You my grateful heart. For I am Your unique creation, filled with wonder and awe. You have approached even the smallest details with excellence. Your works are wonderful. I carry this knowledge deep within my soul. Psalm 139:13-14
Grateful for the incredible quality of love the Father has shown to us. That we would be permitted to be named and called and counted the children of God! 1 John 3:1
So trust Papa when He tells you.
YOU ARE HIS UNIQUE CREATION!
letsloveothers 