Your Voice Can Set You Free [When a Woman Finds Her Voice]

“I wish Rachel was autistic!” Between sobs, the sentiment burst out, dripping with self-condemnation.

I cringed in horror at what I had just uttered about my sweet daughter. But the words were finally out, released from a prison where they had festered for far too long. Now they hung for all to hear … and judge.

I wanted an answer. In my distraught mind, Autism, as terribly difficult a diagnosis as it is, would be better than nothing. Surely answers would salve the pain and bring a little hope.

The counselor waited, knowing more would come now that the dam had burst. And I didn’t disappoint.

Unexpected Life

Life, this life, was not how I had planned it to be. Although racked for years with unanswered questions as to the losses of my unborn children and now no diagnosis for my daughter’s global developmental delays, I still thought I could cope on my own. 

I did a good job pretending—tucking the pain down deep. Out of sight, out of mind. Besides, it seemed there were many valid reasons to not discuss my struggles.

Everyone has their own problems.

“They” will think less of me.

 My struggles and hurts aren’t as bad as many people’s.

 If I stuff it, the pain will go away.

Christians shouldn’t whine about their difficulties. We should be strong. 

All ready excuses. Yet, all lies preventing healing.

Have you found yourself stuffing your pain? Have you defended your silence using some of these same excuses?

It is tempting to avoid the uncomfortable, painful, and misunderstood. To hide behind a facade of strength—a false bravado.

We often think silence is the best way to cope. 

For years my voice got swallowed in the confusion and fear of an unexpected life. One that differed from my plans.

Give Voice to Your Pain

But what I failed to understand for far too long was that healing came about when we shared our pain. When we connected to others who could sympathize. When we learned to trust that our difficulties had a deeper, often unseen purpose. 

I failed to notice that through my silence I had let pain become my prison. 

Don't let pain become your prison; share your story. #powerofsharing #yourstorymatters Click To Tweet

My confession those many years ago was a beginning. A beginning to some beautiful changes. 

Discover Life-Breathing Truths

As I started sharing my story, truths became evident, such as…

God can work all things together for good (not that everything is good). (see Romans 8:28)

God can work all things together for good (not that everything is good). Click To Tweet

We don’t have to pretend to be strong because God is always strong enough for us. (see 2 Corinthians 12:8-10)

We don't have to pretend to be strong because God is always strong enough for us. Click To Tweet

When viewed through God’s lens, things we deem “bad” often end up being our greatest blessings. (see Isaiah 55:8)

When viewed through God's lens, things we deem 'bad' often end up being our greatest blessings. Click To Tweet

It’s still scary, but as I continue to voice my inmost hurts, these truths become woven deeper into the fabric of my thinking—allowing me to walk in freedom rather than bondage.

You can discover these life-breathing truths as well. Instead of stuffing your pain, walk through your fear and give voice to your sorrow, your bitterness, and your longings. 

It won’t be easy, but by sharing your story you’ll start on the path of hope and healing. A path God won’t let you walk alone. 

By sharing your story you'll start on the path of hope and healing. A path God won't let you walk alone. Click To Tweet

“We who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” (Hebrews 6:18-19)

Reflections: Do you stuff your pain? Who’s one safe person you can share your story with?

This is one of many stories on hope, healing, and finding our voice posted and linked up today on Jo Ann Fore’s blog. They are written by bloggers incredibly excited about Jo Ann’s new book, When A Woman Finds Her Voice: Overcoming Life’s Hurts & Using Your Story to Make a Difference, set to release in October.

To read more about Jo Ann’s book click HERE. I know you’ll love these inspiring stories! Click the button below to read all of them.