Use Your Scars

Happy Friday, Friends!

I don't know about you, but I have some scars.
Some able to be seen physically, some not...if we're honest, sometimes it's our hearts that have been scarred.

I look at these scars and I'm reminded of their story. A few in particular:

My csection scar - I did not have easy pregnancies BUT this is proof that I brought life into this world - - - two times!!!

My spinal surgery scar - a very dark time for me where I was in constant pain for a few years, but the decision to have major surgery in my early 30's brought needed healing!

More recently, I have some areas where I had to have a few mole excisions - the stitches remain but once they come out, there will be scars. And I'll be reminded that I need to take better care of my skin!

These scars for me, aren't such a bad thing...but what about those scars that tell a different story?
The scars we want to hide?
The scars that stir memories we don't want do remember.
The scars that remain but perhaps true healing hasn't taken place just yet.

There may be times that we want people to see the miracle, but we don't want to show the scars.

Maybe it's because we don't like the way it looks...or perhaps it's the memories they trigger.

But EVERY scar is a part of your calling!

EVERY scar is proof of healing!
And I want to encourage you to allow the healing TO take place!

USE your scars!
Tell YOUR story!

I'm reminded of this excerpt from a book I read:

"The great gift to us as women is that we have each other.  We are not designed to do life on our own, to struggle through, and to work out all our problems in isolation.  Many times, I've sat with my friends when it feels like all hope is lost and been vulnerable about my own challenges and concerns.  These are the times when having each other is what carries us through.  We shouldn't hide under a rock, because we aren't meant to do this on our own." ~ Anna Smith

Share your scars, tell your story!
It's ok to be vulnerable - that's why we have this ministry named "Shoulder to Shoulder!"
We want you to know you don't have to face anything alone!
You have a family of sisters who are able to help carry you through!

And I just want to remind you that scars and all - you ARE beautiful! And I am confident that God will use them, use YOU, to help another person along the way!

💛
Jenny

#shouldertoshoulder
#yourscarstellyourstory