Hey Beautiful Souls~
As I sit down to write this blog post, a profound urge washes over me to share my testimony, to unfold the layers of my soul and reveal the essence of my journey—a journey marked by trials and triumphs, darkness and light, despair and hope. It’s a story not of perfection but of persistence; not of unblemished faith but of a relentless pursuit of light amidst the shadows that often shroud our world.
In the world today, it feels as though a tangible evil lurks in the air, a darkness that attempts to obscure the sunshine that bathes our lives. This struggle isn’t just external; it mirrors the war within—a battle for the soul, a contest between our higher selves and the temptations that seek to derail us from our divine path. I’ve come to see this not just as a metaphorical devil on my shoulder but as a real, palpable force seeking to influence my choices and cloud my judgment.
My life has been a series of tempests—near-death experiences, health challenges, and mental health struggles. Each trial, whether it be fighting to stay nourished amidst diabetes and gastroparesis, battling the demons of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, or simply striving to find a place of peace and health, has taught me resilience. Yet, for too long, I focused on saving others, driven by nostalgia and an idolized notion of what life should be, neglecting the most crucial relationship of all: my connection with God and the Savior.
The journey of repentance is profound and deeply personal. It’s about recognizing where we’ve faltered, not to drown in self-judgment but to understand that the Atonement is always within reach. It’s about creating lists not of our failures but of our steps towards improvement, recognizing that while labels may define aspects of our lives, they do not determine our worth or our potential.
As I’ve aged, I’ve learned that life’s end isn’t about knowing the exact moment of the world’s conclusion or the precise path our souls will take hereafter. Instead, it’s about ensuring that our souls shine for eternity through the love, creativity, and help we extend to others.
I am inspired by the Divine Creator who formed me, and in return, I feel compelled to share that peace, testimony, faith, and knowledge through my talents and passions. It’s about living for today, for the sunshine that pierces through the storms, embracing each day with the knowledge that He lives, and our Savior is indeed coming.
My years were marked by darkness, a period where my soul felt as if it were erupting in agony. Now, I find solace in the peace and quiet, in the beauty that lies within and in the warmth of the sun that fuels my spirit. This transition from darkness to light hasn’t been swift or easy. It’s a daily commitment to progress, to surround myself with love and light, because I’ve learned that darkness only serves to dampen the spirit, especially for someone like me, whose essence is deeply intertwined with art, truth, and humor.
In a world obsessed with competition and comparison, I choose to stand apart. God is the ultimate destination, and as we anticipate the Savior's return, I wish to meet Him hand in hand, surrounded by joy and living each day to the fullest. This means transforming platforms of darkness into canvases of light, changing narratives of despair into stories of hope, and replacing competition with compassion.
As I navigate the complexities of this world, my resolve remains unshaken—to be a beacon of strength, to stir my surroundings with love and light, and to cherish the journey, regardless of the challenges it presents. It's about making each day count, not in anticipation of what the end might bring but in celebration of the present moment and the potential it holds for growth, learning, and love.
To you reading this, know that you're not alone in your struggles. We are all walking this path together, seeking light, yearning for peace, and striving to leave the world a little brighter than we found it. Let's embrace this journey with open hearts, ready to learn, forgive, love, and illuminate the path for others as we go.
In closing, my message is one of hope: Regardless of the darkness that may seem to prevail, light is always within reach. We must only choose to see it, embrace it, and become vessels of its power.
With Love ~
Keep Shining~Be Inspired~
~Jackie Inspires~
Because, in the end, God is everything. The Savior is coming, and I want to be ready, hand in hand with joy, just living each day.
jackieinspires
Hello Beautiful Souls,
I am hoping each of you is doing well. Always know you're appreciated, loved, and thought of. Life gets busy but I try to share a post when I am inspired because I take it seriously and find that there are some of you that need the reassurance or comfort. I have always been spiritually intuned with my gifts and my personal heart full of love, compassion, empathy and so much more.
In a world that often rushes by at breakneck speed, it's easy to forget that taking care of our mental health is just as crucial as tending to our physical well-being. Mental health is an integral part of our overall health, and it deserves our attention, understanding, and support.
I made the picture (above ) with one of my art pieces years ago. I find inspiration and clarity when I use my talents for good.
Here is something I like to share with you that had a profound effect on me for one of my classes... I hope it helps you in some way...
Just finished 'Girl, Interrupted' by Susanna Kaysen for a class assignment. This book took me on a journey through the author's experiences in a 1960s mental institution. It's a powerful story that explores mental health, the fine line between 'normal' and 'mentally ill,' and the need for empathy.
As someone who's faced my own mental health challenges, I resonated with Susanna's candid account. Her book challenges the stigma around mental health and emphasizes the importance of understanding and support.
One quote that stuck with me: "'Don’t ask me those questions! Don’t ask me what life means or how we know reality or why we have to suffer so much. Don’t talk about how nothing feels real, how everything is coated with gelatin and shining like oil in the sun...' - Susanna Kaysen, 'Girl, Interrupted,' Page 116."
This quote vividly captures the overwhelming thoughts some people with mental health issues experience. They want to avoid hard questions and distressing thoughts. It's a reminder of the need for understanding and support for those going through such intense experiences.
Let's break the stigma and offer help to those on their own mental health journeys.
Mental health challenges can affect anyone. One of the most powerful tools in facing these challenges is the support of friends, family, or mental health professionals. Knowing that someone cares and understands can make all the difference. So, reach out, lean on your support network, and remember, you're not alone on this journey.
Strength doesn't always manifest as a bulging bicep or an unyielding will. Mental strength, often unseen by the world, is just as remarkable. Mental strength is a testament to your resilience and your capacity to overcome adversity.
Resilience is the cornerstone of mental health. It's the ability to bounce back from life's setbacks, to adapt to change, and to grow through adversity. In a world that can often feel overwhelming, remember that your mental health matters. It's a vital part of your well-being, and taking care of it is a sign of strength, not weakness.
You are loved and are important NOT ASHAMED OF WHO YOU ARE.
Keep shining. Be inspired.
~ Jackie Inspires~
Hello Beautiful Souls :) Hope you're doing well. Just wanted to share some inspiration while we tackle more days, weeks, and months ahead, that way you have something to fall back on when you need a reminder.
Life is a complex tapestry of experiences, filled with ups and downs, joys, and sorrows. Sometimes, it feels like the world is testing us beyond our limits, pushing us to the brink of despair. In these moments, it's crucial to remember that it's okay to have a hard time, to suffer, to express your vulnerability.
It's also essential to remind yourself that amidst the trials, you possess the strength to endure and thrive. Each of us matters, and your struggles are real. This blog post aims to inspire you to harness your skills, desires, knowledge, passions, and talents to better understand yourself and others, to find the good in all circumstances, and to keep moving forward.
Being vulnerable is not a sign of weakness. It takes courage to admit your struggles and seek support from others. Remember, it's okay to shed tears, to share your fears, and to ask for help. Vulnerability consists of empathy and compassion, not only for others but also for yourself.
Find the Good in All Circumstances. Life's challenges can be daunting, but within every hardship lies an opportunity for growth and transformation. Instead of dwelling on what's going wrong, focus on what you can learn from your experiences. Adversity often brings out the best in people, teaching resilience, patience, and gratitude. Keep in mind that even the most challenging circumstances can lead to personal breakthroughs and positive change.
Discover Your Talents and Passions. Your unique talents and passions are powerful tools for self-discovery and personal development. Take the time to explore your interests and hobbies. What activities light up your soul? What could you spend hours doing without getting tired or bored? Your passions and talents are integral to understanding who you are at your core. They offer a pathway to self-fulfillment and purpose.
Sharing your expertise and experiences can create meaningful connections and build a sense of belonging. When you use your skills and knowledge to help others, you not only make a positive impact on their lives but also gain a deeper understanding of your own capabilities and potential.
Remember: You Matter. Your existence has an impact on the world around you, and your unique perspective contributes to the diversity of human experiences. Your struggles, your triumphs, your journey—it all matters. Don't underestimate the value of your presence in this world.
Always remember to keep going. No matter how hard it gets. You can experience hurt and all other emotions and matters, but you must keep going to know that there is something better in the end.
Life is a marathon, not a sprint. It's important to acknowledge that there will be setbacks along the way, but these setbacks do not define your journey. What matters most is your determination to keep going. Perseverance in the face of adversity is a testament to your strength and resilience. When you keep moving forward, you not only overcome obstacles but also create a life that reflects your true potential.
Know that YOU MATTER. EACH OF US AROUND THE WORLD MATTERS.
Focus on the day~ Find yourself :)
Keep shining ~ Be Inspired ~
~Jackie Inspires~
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