A Word of Encouragement for All

The holiday season is a tough one for many people. Especially we who have been blessed with depression. I know that many of you are really down, and you have no vision of hope whatsoever. But in a way, we're a family on this forum.

We encourage each other, listen to each other's stories, give advice where needed, and most importantly just offer a support when life seems like it can't get any more difficult. I would just like to speak some truth into your life.

Life is worth living. It is the hard times that make us stronger. If you have ever seen the movie "Pollyanna" you know what I am talking about when I refer to the "glad game". We can always find something good in life. And on the flip side, can always find someone else's life who is worse off than ours. Don't let the depression blind you from seeing that this holiday season.

Some of us may indeed be going through the absolute hardest times or our lives. Others of us may have just gone through that period and are finally seeing the light at the other side. But regardless of which end of the spectrum you are on, let's remember the Heart of the holidays.

I want to challenge each of you to take some time to think about your situation, whatever that may be, and find ONE good thing that has come from it. I guarantee you that as you start thinking of this one, many others will flood your mind. Take care. May your holidays be filled with things that count the most. :D

I will take my turn as well. I am thankful for having experienced and continuing to experience depression/anxiety, etc...that I can relate to people on an entirely different level. For me, life is about relationships and the hope that we can bring to others. Had I not have gone through this heartache and pain, I would have never searched for this forum nor found any of you guys. For now, my ONE thing good that has come out of depression is the ability to relate and care for others.