Through the Valley

Comment by Nik P. on October 25, 2008 at 11:20am

Sure Rick. Offer your lurking to the Lord and perhaps the Holy Spirit can move you from time to time :)

Often the best thing is just to say, "I'm here." And, here's a virtual hug. I will now demonstrate by giving Rick a big virtual bear hug
(((( Rick ))))

Comment by Nik P. on October 25, 2008 at 1:23pm

I just realized that we can get our topics really clogged up if we don't stay clear. So, my understanding is that anyone may share on this first discussion topic about their loneliness. And pop in for support.

When I decide to write about violence / oppression, I will start a new topic.

I think people should also be welcome to start a thread for their own Valley, and we keep our stories to a minimum there, except to show we understand. Example: On a thread like "Sam's Valley of a New Diagnosis" we would help Sam reflect on what's going on, offer scripture and support, hold Sam accountable, as long as Sam engages us in the grief process.

What do y'all think?

Comment by Nik P. on October 26, 2008 at 11:23pm

I am amazed how much the urgency and distance that I felt has lost its hold in the simple telling and being heard here.

Comment by Maggie on October 27, 2008 at 9:33am

Hello Everyone,
I initially decided to join because Chaplain Nik left a comment on my page inviting me to do so. But I have also experienced (and still do experience) my share of valleys in this life. I honestly think they are a normal part of the Christian experience (if they were not why did books like Psalms, Jeremiah, Job, Lamentations, etc get written). Sadly, it seems really knowing how to minister to those in the valley seems to be a lost art in the church. Not completely lost - I am so thankful for those who have walked beside me in my valleys and helped me to get to the other side - but largely lost. So, walking through our own valleys and helping others to do so, and learning from each other what works and what does not could be a wonderful way to regain this lost art.

So, I'm looking forward to sharing my own experience, strength and hope, but also my own struggles. Thanks for inviting me Nik.

Comment by Nik P. on November 20, 2008 at 7:24pm

Proverbs 27: 17 As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.

I have found that the mix of doctrine has led me back into the Word and into study. I am sure of what I believe, but I am forced to review it in order to write clearly about it. I have also had great opportunities for transparency and transformation here. Though I don't agree with some of the doctrine, I can see that if I remain faithful to engage it, God can use the interaction to shape me.

I am always sad to see someone get Bible-thumped until they retreat. The Bible is not a weapon. So sorry Alaska.

Comment by Nik P. on November 24, 2008 at 9:30pm

Claudia, would you edit the discussion forum to show up to 10 topics? This way it is easier to see all the topics, rather than just the top 3. Thanks.

Comment by Nik P. on November 25, 2008 at 9:26pm

Welcome to the new members!! Remember, the forums under the groups ARE MODERATED, by their creator. So, no flaming will be allowed in here. you may all take a deep peaceful breath and relax. . .

Comment by Nik P. on December 1, 2008 at 5:33am

Welcome Tina!
Sorry about your loss. Please feel free to start a discussion about losing a parent if you would like to share more in-depth. That is definitely something we could walk together.
Nik
Nik

Comment by Nik P. on December 1, 2008 at 7:42am

Check out Ms. F, the patient of Dr. Kohut at:
http://www.selfpsychologypsychoanalysis.org/whatis.shtml

This could be very enlightening regarding our peer relations on the board. I think there are some folks 'recovering' from childhood abuses that react like Ms. F.

Comment by Nik P. on December 7, 2008 at 6:43pm

Dang it! I know I'll see her around, but I hate that Kat had to leave here. Again, I see holes all over where her posts used to be.

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