Author: ChronicallyGratefulDeb

The body always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is listening and doing what your body needs. I was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis in 1997ish, Avascular Necrosis aka Osteonecrosis in my knee in 2014 and Factor V Leiden hetero, and Spondylolisthesis 2005ish Health Advocate-Health Activist-World Changer Love photography, cooking, hiking, walking ,traveling and learning to live a new normal since my diagnosis. My Links Facebook Main Profile https://www.facebook.com/debbie.briglovichandio Main Blog www.ChronicallyGratefulDebla.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/debbiea001 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/debbiea_1962 and https://www.instagram.com/chronicallygratefulme Support Group Avascular Necrosis/Osteonecrosis Support Int’l https://m.facebook.com/groups/DeadBoneDiseaseAvn Awareness for Avascular Necrosis & Other Conditions of The Bone and Joints https://www.facebook.com/AvascularNecrosisAndBoneDiseaseAwareness/ Avascular Necrosis Awareness Day November 29 – working with elected officials to get this recognized in all states https://www.facebook.com/AwarenessByDebla/ Avascular Necrosis-Osteonecrosis Knowledge and Education https://www.facebook.com/AvascularNecrosisEducation/ Facebook Link https://m.facebook.com/ChronicallyGrateful.Me/
Posted in Let’s Learn the Bible

Genesis – Creation Adam & Eve

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Creation

In the book of Genesis, it is written that God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh day. Here is a brief summary of what God did on each day:

Day 1: God created light and separated it from darkness.
Day 2: God created the sky and separated it from the waters.
Day 3: God created the dry land and plants.
Day 4: God created the sun, moon, and stars to rule the day and night.
Day 5: God created the sea creatures and birds.
Day 6: God created land animals and humans in his own image.
Day 7: God rested and blessed the seventh day.

This teaches us about the power and majesty of God, his creativity, and the importance of rest and Sabbath.

The Story of Adam, Eve, the Serpent, and the Tree of Knowledge

One of the most well-known passages of the Bible is the story of the creation found in the book of Genesis. This story relates how God created the world and all living things within it. However, one particular aspect of the creation story that has fascinated scholars and theologians for centuries is the narrative of Adam and Eve, the serpent, and the tree of knowledge. In todays teaching , we will explore the biblical account of the creation of humanity and the events that unfolded in the Garden of Eden.

The story begins with God creating the universe, the earth, and all life on it. On the sixth day of creation, God created humans – male and female – in his image and likeness. These two individuals were named Adam and Eve and were placed in the Garden of Eden, a paradise that God had created for them. The Garden was lush and plentiful, full of trees bearing fruit of every kind, including the forbidden tree of knowledge.

The serpent, who was described as crafty and cunning, approached Eve and encouraged her to eat from the tree of knowledge, promising that her eyes would be opened and she would become like God. Eve, in turn, convinced Adam to join her in consuming the fruit, and they both became aware of their nakedness and felt shame. When God returned to the Garden, he confronted Adam and Eve about their disobedience, and they each tried to place blame on the other. In response to their transgression, God punished them by casting them out of the Garden and condemning them to a life of hardship and toil.

So, where was paradise? The Garden of Eden is often depicted as a literal place, but it is more likely to be a symbolic representation of the state of perfection and harmony that existed before the Fall. Regardless of its physical location, the Garden of Eden represents the ideal world that humans long for, a place of peace, abundance, and bliss.

The story of Adam and Eve has been interpreted in a variety of ways throughout history. Some scholars see the story as an allegory or metaphor for the human condition, representing our inherent struggle between good and evil, while others see it as a literal account of the world’s origins. Regardless of how one interprets the story, it is clear that it reflects the fundamental human experience of temptation, guilt, and shame.

I believe every word in the Bible and the story of Adam and Eve, the serpent, and the tree of knowledge remains one of the most iconic and thought-provoking passages in all of literature. Through this story, we are reminded of humanity’s potential for both greatness and failure, and our need for redemption and forgiveness. As Christians, we must strive to live in accordance with God’s will, resisting the temptations that lead us away from him and towards destruction. May we all find our way back to paradise.

Understanding the Fall of Adam and Eve

The details of the creation of man and woman happen after the Bible says God rested on the seventh day. But their creation clearly takes place on day number six.
God’s Command to Adam and Eve

God gave Adam and Eve a beautiful garden named Eden in which to live. They had all the fruit and vegetables they could possibly want to enjoy. They were to tend the garden and have dominion over it and the animals. Some people say that work is part of the curse, but the actual curse is that work would be difficult and laborious.

God gave Adam and Eve many beautiful plants and trees to enjoy for food. But He also gave them one tree from which they were not to eat. This was the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. God’s command to them was that if they ate from that tree they would die.
Adam and Eve Bible StoryThe Fall of Adam and Eve

The Bible says that the Devil entered into a serpent and tempted Eve (Genesis 3:1). He got Eve to doubt God’s Word. Satan told her that God knew that Eve would become enlightened and possess the same knowledge as God had if she ate from the fruit of the tree. This is much like Satan’s temptation to man today—that he does not need God.

The fruit was beautiful and Satan was cunning. Eve fell to the temptation and took the fruit from the forbidden tree. Finding it delicious she took it to Adam. Adam also ate from it. At the time he ate their lives, and that of all future humanity, changed. They immediately knew they had done wrong. They disobeyed God and would be punished.
Adam and Eve Hid From God

As was God’s custom, He came to visit Adam and Eve in Eden. They tried to cover their nakedness with fig leaves. Their nakedness was something they had never even noticed before. When they heard God coming they hid from Him. God searched for them. Of course we know that God is all knowing. He was not looking for them because He didn’t know where they were, but to give Adam and Eve a chance to return to Him and acknowledge their sin.
God Punished Adam, Eve and the Serpent

God spoke with Adam, Eve and the serpent. Each one had a specific punishment from God. Adam was told that his work would be hard. It would become toilsome (Genesis 3:17-19).

The woman would bear children with great pain (Genesis 3:16). God intended that Adam and Eve would have children because He talked about man and woman leaving father and mother to get married (Genesis 2:24). Adam and Eve had no father or mother. It was a pronouncement for future generations which God fully intended to come with time. Eve’s punishment was that the bearing of children would be painful.

To the serpent he was given the punishment of crawling on the ground and that he would be cursed more than any other creature (Genesis 3:14). This punishment was given to the animal and not just to Satan. We don’t know if snakes had feet before this punishment, but God changed the animal in some way. To Satan God said that he would be punished in the future by the promise God would give.
God’s Great Promise

When speaking the extent of Satan’s punishment God said that the seed of the woman would come to destroy him. This seed was the promised Redeemer we read so much about in the Old Testament. He was revealed in the New Testament to be Jesus Christ. Although Satan would bruise the Savior’s heel (a fatal wound) the redeemer would crush Satan’s head (a mortal wound) (Genesis 3:15). To show God’s love and to give a sign of things to come, God sacrificed an animal for Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:21). This slain animal was to represent future sacrifices and forgiveness by God. God made clothes for Adam and Eve from the animal which shows God covering their sins with a substitutionary sacrifice.
The Rest of the Curse

God told Adam and Eve in the beginning that they would die on the day they ate from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. One death was immediate. They were spiritually separated from God. However, their physical bodies continued to live. But they would not live forever as God apparently intended. They would become old, sick and die.

All three (Adam, Eve and the serpent) were put out of the guard and the curse came not only on them but on the whole world. There were briers in the fields now. They had to provide for themselves with their own hands. They no longer had a personal communion with God.
The Future for Adam and Eve

They had a few children (Genesis 4). Sadly their firstborn son killed their second son. Their lives were so different than what God intended. Adam died at 930 years of age (Genesis 5:5). Bible years

Posted in Today’s woman

The Roles of The Women of Today

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Balancing Roles: Women of Today Nurturing Faith, Family, and Career

Good morning!

Today, I want to direct our attention to the remarkable women of our time who skillfully navigate the complexities of life while maintaining a deep connection with God. In todays post we will explore the challenges they face in balancing their roles as working professionals, mothers, and wives, and how they can find time for their spiritual growth amidst their busy lives.

Embracing God’s Design for Women: Before we delve into the realities of today’s women, it’s crucial to recognize that God has created women with unique strengths and abilities. The Bible teaches us that women have been entrusted with incredible gifts, such as nurturing, compassion, and resilience. Proverbs 31 describes a virtuous woman who not only takes care of her family but also engages in fruitful work. It’s important to affirm that women are called to make meaningful contributions in various spheres of life.

The Juggling Act: The women of today face the demanding task of balancing multiple responsibilities. Many are pursuing careers while also shouldering the immense responsibility of raising children and being supportive wives. Or being a single parent trying to fulfill the roles of both mom and dad. The pressures of society, workplace always demanding and pulling at us with their expectations, and our own personal ambitions can create a whirlwind that seems overwhelming. However, it is crucial to remember that with God, all things are possible. Philippians 4:13

Setting Priorities: In the midst of juggling with our different roles, it is essential for us women to set clear priorities. Priorities may vary from season to season, but it is vital to establish a firm foundation built upon faith, family, and personal well-being. When we align our priorities with God’s principles, we create a framework for balance and harmony in our lives.

Nurturing a Vibrant Faith: Finding time for God can be challenging when we have work, school, kids, husband, soccer, baseball, dance class, or as a single parent work 3 jobs and go to school. Sometimes it seems like we never get 15-30 minutes just for us: but it is crucial to invest in our relationship with Him. Women can incorporate spiritual practices into their daily routines, such as prayer, reading our Bible , and meditating on God’s word. Taking even small moments throughout the day to connect with God helps cultivate a vibrant and thriving faith.

Support and Community: Its not good for a woman to do everything alone. Some woman can thrive alone; but we as spiritual beings we all need a supportive community around us. Reach out to fellow believers with things in common who can offer encouragement, accountability, and practical help. Women’s groups, church communities, and mentorship programs can provide invaluable support, helping women navigate the complexities of their roles while growing in their faith.

As women, we must prioritize ourselves and our own needs in order to lead fulfilling and balanced lives. Only when we prioritize self-care can we truly show up for those around us and make a meaningful impact in our communities. Exercise, Good food balanced lifestyle, Meditation and Reading our Bible are all part of self care.

Grace for the Journey: It is important for women to embrace the truth that we cannot do everything perfectly, we cannot be all things to everyone. In the quest for balance, mistakes and moments of weakness are inevitable. However, God’s grace is abundant and sufficient for us in every circumstance. When we falter, we can turn to Him for forgiveness, strength, and the wisdom to continue on our journey.

Posted in Blessed, Positively, Daily Affirmations, selfcare, Unconditional Love, Jesus

We All Get in a Funk Sometimes.

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Life can be challenging at times. It can seem like no matter how hard we try, we just can’t seem to catch a break. We may feel stuck in a rut and unable to move forward. However, it’s important to remember that there are ways to get out of a funk and find joy and happiness once again.

One of the most important things to do is to keep looking up. This means to keep your eyes fixed on the positive aspects of life and not to dwell on the negative. By focusing on the good, you can start to shift your mindset and outlook on life.

Another key to getting out of a funk is to do your best. It’s easy to become complacent and give up when things aren’t going well, but instead, strive to put forth your best effort in everything you do. This will help you build confidence and give you a sense of control over your life.

Having a positive mindset is also crucial. When you think positively, you attract positive things into your life. Therefore, make an effort to think positively and focus on the things that bring you joy. Rather than the negative.

Meditation and prayer can also be effective tools in getting out of a funk. Spending time in quiet reflection or talking to a higher power can help you regain a sense of peace and balance.

Exercise is another powerful way to improve your mood and lift your spirits. Engaging in physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters.

Reading your Bible and seeking spiritual guidance can also be helpful. The Bible is full of inspiring stories and messages that can provide comfort and hope in difficult times.

Lastly, helping others can also be an effective way to get out of a funk. By focusing on the needs of others, you can shift your attention away from your own problems and find purpose and meaning.

Posted in Faith, Let’s Learn the Bible

Learning the Bible (part 1)

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Genesis 1-4:16

The Biblical story of the Creation of the Universe and the Fall of Man

Hey everyone, we are diving into the book of Genesis today! This incredible book is full of fascinating stories about the beginning of the world as we know it. We’ll start with the account of Creation and how God spoke everything into existence.

Then, we’ll talk about Adam and Eve, the first humans on earth, and their sons Cain and Abel. We’ll cover how sin entered the world and how God showed mercy to generations to come through the line of Seth.

Next up, we’ll look at Noah and the flood, and how God saved him and his family from destruction. Then, we’ll get into the story of Abraham and Sarah, and how God made a covenant with them that would bless all nations.

We’ll also talk about Isaac, the son of Abraham, and his wife Rebekah. And let’s not forget Jacob, who wrestled with God and became the father of the twelve tribes of Israel.

There’s so much to unpack in the book of Genesis, and I’m excited to dive in with you all. Stay tuned for more biblical insights and inspiring stories. Don’t forget to follow and share with your friends! #Genesis #BibleStudy #Inspiration

The book of Genesis is a cornerstone of the Christian faith, and its depiction of the creation story sets the stage for the entirety of the Bible. Today we will explore the first few chapters of Genesis and delve into the intricate details of God’s creation of the world and humanity.

The book of Genesis begins with an introduction to the concept of God as the creator of all things. The opening line, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth,” sets the stage for what is to come. Over the course of six days, God creates the world and everything in it, culminating in his creation of humanity on the sixth day.

On the first day, God creates light, separating it from the darkness.

On the second day, he separates the waters above from the waters below, creating the sky.

On the third day, he creates dry land and vegetation.

On the fourth day, he creates the sun, moon, and stars.

On the fifth day, he creates fish and birds.

Finally, on the sixth day, he creates land animals and humans.

He rests the seventh day.

Adam and Eve are the first humans, and their story begins in the Garden of Eden. They were given one commandment by God, not to eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, which was in the middle of the garden. However, they were tempted by the serpent, who persuaded them to disobey God and eat from the forbidden tree.

As a result of their disobedience, Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden of Eden. They were cursed, and their descendants were condemned to live in a world of sin and suffering. However, despite their transgressions, God still loved them and promised to send a savior to redeem humanity.

Posted in Uncategorized

Attorney For Justice- Storyteller

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Elaina’s journey to becoming a lawyer was not an easy one, but she worked hard and excelled in her studies, becoming the top of her class. However, after passing the bar and entering into the legal system, she realized that justice was not always served fairly. Innocent people were being convicted just to make a conviction, and Elaina couldn’t stand by and watch.

She took action, speaking to her church and filing complaints, but still felt lost and defeated. It wasn’t until she met a woman in her church who encouraged her to stay strong, citing Bible verses, that Elaina found the inspiration she needed to make a change.

With renewed faith and determination, Elaina decided to start her own small law firm. She fought tirelessly for the rights of the innocent, using her honesty and integrity to defend those who had been wrongfully accused. Over the years, her reputation grew and her firm became known as the most reputable in the area.

Elaina’s journey highlights the importance of staying true to one’s convictions, even when faced with adversity. It also serves as a reminder of the power of faith and community, and how they can provide strength and guidance during difficult times. Through her actions, Elaina made a positive impact on the legal system and helped bring justice to those who needed it most.

For those facing persecution, the Bible provides several verses of comfort and inspiration. One such verse is found in Matthew 5:10, which reads, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” This verse reminds us that even in the face of persecution, we can find comfort in knowing that our actions are righteous in God’s eyes.

Another verse that provides encouragement is found in 2 Corinthians 12:10, which says, “That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” This verse serves as a reminder that even when we feel weak and overwhelmed, God’s strength can empower us to endure persecution and stay faithful to our beliefs.

Ultimately, the Bible reminds us that even in the face of persecution, we are not alone. In Romans 8:38-39, we are reminded that nothing can separate us from the love of God: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” With this assurance, we can face persecution with courage and hope, knowing that God is with us always.

For those who have been wrongfully imprisoned, the Bible offers comfort and hope through powerful verses that speak to perseverance and faith. One such verse can be found in Psalm 146:7-9, which reads, “He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets prisoners free, the Lord gives sight to the blind, the Lord lifts up those who are bowed down, the Lord loves the righteous.” This verse reminds us that even in the darkest of times, God sees our suffering and will ultimately set us free.

Another verse that provides encouragement during false imprisonment can be found in Isaiah 61:1-4, which says, “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners… They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations.” This verse reminds us that even in the midst of our suffering, there is hope for restoration and rebuilding.

Ultimately, the Bible teaches us that even in times of injustice, we can trust in God’s power to deliver us and restore us. As it says in Proverbs 21:15, “When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers.” We must hold onto our faith and trust in God’s plan, even when we face false accusations or wrongful imprisonment. Through prayer and perseverance, we can find strength and hope in the face of adversity.

Posted in Blogging, Faith, joyful-echoes

Where do we go when we or a loved one passes away? Are we Living with Purpose.

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

The topic of life after death has been a point of fascination and debate for centuries. While many religious beliefs propose various ideas, Christians have their own understanding of what happens to us when we die. As a born-again believer, I hold the conviction that upon our passing, our soul ascends to heaven immediately. In today’s message , I will delve into the biblical basis for this belief, addressing common misconceptions that exist among believers.

One of the essential verses that solidify my belief is found in 2 Corinthians 5:8, which states, “We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” This verse affirms that as soon as our earthly bodies are deceased, our souls are welcomed into the presence of God in heaven. Additionally, in Luke 23:43, Jesus promises the believing thief on the cross, “Today you will be with me in paradise,” indicating an immediate transition from Earth to heaven for believers.

Despite these clear Scriptures, some misconceptions exist about the waiting period or purgatory before entering heaven. These ideas do not align with the teachings of the Bible, which affirm that our salvation and eternal destiny are sealed at the moment we believe in Christ as our Savior. Ephesians 2:8-9 asserts, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works so that no one can boast.” This passage reinforces the idea that our salvation is not earned by our actions but is a free gift from God, and once we accept it, we are guaranteed a place in heaven.

It is also important to note that the biblical concept of judgment occurs after our physical death, and the judgment determines our eternal destination. Hebrews 9:27-28 states, “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.” This verse confirms that a believer’s eternal destiny is determined at death, not at a later time.

As a born-again Christian, and ordained minister I believe that when we die, our souls immediately ascend to heaven to be in the presence of God. If we are born again. While misinterpretations may exist about purgatory or waiting periods between death and heaven, the Bible’s teachings affirm that our salvation is secured by our faith in Jesus Christ. By understanding these biblical truths, we can confidently look forward to our eternal home with our Heavenly Father.

We live here on earth and we’re living now, so we tend to think in terms of the here and now. But this world isn’t home for believers. If we’re too focused on this world and never give a thought to living in the light of tomorrow, we won’t live well in the here and now! The Apostle Peter uses this line of thinking to warn us about the risk of becoming so earthbound and seduced by worldly things that we lose sight of heaven. What does living in light of tomorrow look like? In this message,

From – 2 Peter about living in anticipation of the eternal days to come so that we can live our best life now.

Today I wanted to dive deeper into the message from 2 Peter about living in anticipation of the eternal days to come. This message is so powerful and has the ability to transform our lives if we truly embrace it.

Peter reminds us that our time here on earth is limited, and that we should be making the most of every moment. We should strive to live with purpose and intention, and to make choices that align with our values and beliefs. This means focusing on the things that truly matter, such as our relationships, our health, our personal growth and development, and our contribution to the world around us.

Living in anticipation of the eternal days to come means that we are not just focused on the present moment, but also on the future. We have a sense of hope and expectancy for what is yet to come, and this motivates us to keep moving forward even in difficult times. It gives us a perspective that is beyond our current circumstances, and helps us to see the bigger picture.

So how can we apply this message to our daily lives? Here are a few practical tips:

  1. Focus on your priorities: Take some time to reflect on what truly matters to you, and make sure that your daily actions align with these priorities. This might mean saying no to things that don’t serve you, or setting boundaries to protect your time and energy.
  2. Cultivate a positive mindset: Living in anticipation of the eternal days to come requires us to have a hopeful and optimistic outlook on life. Practice gratitude, focus on the good in your life, and surround yourself with positive people who uplift and encourage you.
  3. Take care of yourself: Your physical, mental, and emotional health are all important factors in living your best life now. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and taking time for self-care activities that nourish your soul.
  4. Serve others: One of the best ways to live with purpose and intention is to serve others. Look for opportunities to give back to your community, volunteer your time and resources, or simply show kindness and compassion to those around you.

I hope this message from 2 Peter has inspired you to live with anticipation of the eternal days to come, and to make the most of every moment here on earth. Let’s strive to live our best life now, so that we can be ready for all the amazing things that are yet to come. Thanks for reading, and I’ll see you in my next post! #2Peter #EternalDays #LiveWithPurpose #BestLifeNow

Posted in PTSD,Military

Mary PTSD and the Iraq War

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Mary had always been a fierce and determined woman. So when news of war broke out in Iraq, she eagerly volunteered to serve in the military, leaving her husband, children, and friends behind. For months, she fought tirelessly on the battlefield, putting herself in harm’s way to protect her country.

But when Mary returned home, she was a different person. The sights and sounds of war had left an indelible mark on her psyche, causing her to suffer from severe PTSD. She was constantly in pain, both physical and emotional, and found it hard to connect with those around her.

Her marriage was also falling apart. Her husband, who had waited patiently for her return, didn’t understand the demons that haunted Mary every day. They argued constantly, and Mary became easily angered, even lashing out at him and their children.

It was then that the pastor’s wife from Mary’s local church reached out to her. She had heard about Mary’s struggles and wanted to offer support. But despite the woman’s best efforts, Mary was resistant. She had lost her faith during the war, and no amount of prayer or scripture could bring it back.

Feeling lost and alone, Mary began to isolate herself from the world. She rarely left home, ignoring calls from friends and family. She knew she needed help, but didn’t know where to turn or how to ask for it.

One day, while flipping through an old photo album, Mary came across a picture of herself from before the war. In the picture, she was happy and carefree, surrounded by loved ones. Looking at it now, she realized how much she had changed.

Determined to find a way to heal, Mary reached out to a support group for veterans suffering from PTSD. It was there that she met others who had gone through similar experiences and understood her pain. She also started attending therapy sessions and taking medication to help manage her symptoms.

Over time, Mary began to slowly rebuild her life. She reconnected with her husband and children, and started to find joy in the small things again. Although she still had bad days, she knew that she was not alone in her struggles. And even though her faith was still a work in progress, she knew that she was on the path to finding her way back to it.

After a set back during a 4th of July fireworks show- Mary found herself alone in her living room, feeling overwhelmed by her PTSD demons. She called out to God, tears streaming down her face, asking for help and guidance.

As she sat there in silence, a soft, warm breeze blew through the open window, and a beautiful white dove appeared: It perched on her windowsill and looked at Mary with its gentle eyes.

Mary felt a calming presence wash over her, as if all her worries and fears were lifted away. She knew in that moment that God had answered her prayers.

The dove stayed with Mary throughout the night, offering her comfort and companionship. And every time she started to feel scared or alone, the dove would gently coo, reminding her that she was not alone.

In the days and weeks that followed, Mary found that her PTSD symptoms had lessened. She didn’t know whether it was because of the dove’s presence or the renewed faith and hope she felt, but either way, she felt grateful.

Eventually, the dove flew away, leaving Mary feeling stronger and more capable than ever before. Her journey to healing was far from over, but she knew that with God and her newfound inner strength, she would be able to overcome anything.

It’s never too late to get help for PTSD. Treatment can help you manage symptoms or even cure PTSD. VA provides PTSD trainings for mental health care providers, more than half of whom are women. VA also has Women’s Mental Health Champions at every VA medical center. They are mental health clinicians with specific training and expertise in women Veterans’ mental health. Women’s Mental Health Champions can connect you with local resources and support.

What services does VA provide for PTSD?

Your VA health care provider can give referrals to PTSD specialists or therapy or prescribe certain medications. Services and treatments for PTSD include:

  • Mental health assessment and screening
  • Therapy: Trauma-focused psychotherapies are highly effective treatments for PTSD. “Trauma-focused” means they focus on your memory of the trauma.

If you have questions or can’t find what you’re looking for, you can call, text, or chat online with the Women Veterans Call Center (WVCC) at 855-829-6636 to get help and find available resources and services in your area.

Posted in depression, Hope, Mental Health

Depression and Suicide There is Help and Hope.

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Many do not like to talk about things like this but we need it out there so people struggling know they are not alone and there is hope.

Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people around the world. Although it may seem like there is no way out of the darkness, it is important to remember that suicide is not the answer. Taking one’s own life is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.

If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, it is important to seek help immediately. There are numerous resources available for those who are in crisis, including hotlines, counseling services, and support groups. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

One of the most important things to remember when dealing with depression is that you are not alone. Many people have gone through similar struggles and have come out on the other side stronger and more resilient. By reaching out to others for support, you can begin to heal and find hope once again.

In addition to seeking help from professionals and loved ones, it is important to take care of yourself during this difficult time. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise. These simple self-care practices can help improve your mood and reduce the symptoms of depression.

Finally, it is important to remember that there is always hope. With the right treatment and support, it is possible to overcome depression and live a fulfilling life. So if you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, know that helpis available and that you do not have to face this alone.

When your depression brings thoughts of suicide get help now.

Suicide is a complex issue that can stem from various factors such as mental illness, societal pressures, addiction and personal struggles. While it is not a mental illness in itself, suicidal behavior is often a symptom or manifestation of underlying mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and addiction.

Mental illnesses are a serious health concern that requires professional help from trained medical professionals. Seeking help for mental health issues can be challenging due to societal stigmas and the fear of being judged or misunderstood. However, seeking help for mental illness is essential for managing and treating suicidal ideations.

Reaching out for help can be daunting, but there are several resources available for those who need support. These resources include counseling services, support groups, and hotlines that provide confidential assistance and guidance to individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts.

It’s important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It takes courage to acknowledge that you need assistance and to take steps towards healing. By taking care of our mental health, we can live fulfilling lives with a sense of purpose and belonging.

  • Psalm 34:17-18: “When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
  • Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
  • Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
  • Romans 8:28: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

These verses are to remind us that God is with us in our struggles and that we can find peace and strength in Him. They also encourage us to seek help through prayer and support from others. If you suffer from depression talk to a professional and if you ever feel suicidal call or text

THE 988 SUICIDE & CRISIS LIFELINE (FORMERLY KNOWN AS THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE 1-800-273-TALK) 988LIFELINE.ORG is a registered service mark of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is administered by Vibrant Emotional Health. You can text them – text or call to 988.

You can also Text HOME to 741741 to reach a volunteer Crisis Counselor.

We all have something to offer to this world. You matter

Posted in Storytelling

Thomas the Backpacking Bear

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Thomas the bear loved nothing more than exploring the vast wilderness of the forest. He would go on long backpacking trips, following trails and discovering new sights and sounds. On one particular trip, Thomas decided to go fishing for dinner, hoping to catch a fresh trout to cook over an open fire. While walking along the riverbank, he noticed a couple of fires that humans had left burning. He thought to himself, “What a waste of good fire!”

With a few deft moves, Thomas was able to cook his fish over the newly claimed flames. Satisfied with his meal, he put out the fire and continued hiking, taking in the beauty of the forest. However, as the day wore on, Thomas lost track of time and inadvertently took a wrong turn. The forest was vast and everything began to look the same. Before he knew it, it was dark and he was hopelessly lost.

Anxiety began to set in as Thomas realized he may never find his way back. Just then, an Angel appeared before him, offering guidance and wisdom to help him get back on track. The Angel showed him how to navigate through the forest using the North Star and explained how to read the compass he always carried with him.

Using the newfound knowledge, Thomas was finally able to find his way back to the correct trail and make his way safely back to his camp. He was grateful for the Angel’s guidance and vowed to never forget the lessons he learned on that fateful day.

The story of Thomas the backpacking bear teaches us the importance of being prepared, having a good sense of direction, and the value of asking for help when we need it. It also highlights the beauty and wonder of nature and the importance of respecting the environment. It’s also best to never go in the woods alone. Always travel in 2 or more.

Posted in Uncategorized

Memorial Day

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Memorial Day: Honoring the Sacrifices of our Brave Soldiers

Memorial Day holds a special place in the hearts of Americans. It is a day to remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives while serving in the armed forces. Unfortunately, many people confuse Memorial Day with Veterans Day and fail to understand the meaning behind this important day.

It is crucial that we recognize the significance of Memorial Day and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. While Veterans Day acknowledges all veterans, Memorial Day is specifically reserved to remember the fallen heroes who fought for our country.

On this day, it is essential to pay tribute to the lives lost and show our gratitude to the families who continue to carry the burden of their loss. We can do this by participating in Memorial Day ceremonies, visiting cemeteries and placing flags on graves, or simply taking a moment of silence to remember the sacrifice of our courageous soldiers.

It is also important to educate ourselves and others on the true meaning of Memorial Day. We must take the time to understand the history and significance of this day and pass on this knowledge to future generations, ensuring that their sacrifice will never be forgotten.

In closing, let us remember that Memorial Day is not just about barbecues or a day off work. It is a sacred day to honor and remember those who gave their lives while fighting for our freedom. As we gather with family and friends on this day, let us take a moment to reflect and pay tribute to these brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.