The teenage years are often filled with turmoil and self-discovery, and my experience was no different. Along with the usual challenges of adolescence, I grappled with depression and anxiety. Living between two households, each with its own set of rules and dynamics, added to the complexity. During this time, I often felt like I was trapped in a never-ending night, struggling to find my way through the darkness.
Coping with Darkness
At sixteen, I found myself overwhelmed by the pressures of balancing life between my parents’ homes, school, trying to figure out who I am, and pleasing people. The volatility of these dynamics often left me feeling anxious and depressed. The comforting passages of scripture that had once brought me solace seemed distant and ineffective. I questioned the presence of God in my life and wondered if I would ever find my way out of the darkness.
Moments of Light
It was during these darkest moments that unexpected sources of light appeared. One such moment came from a nurse named Cathy during my second stay in an adolescent psychiatric center. At night, Cathy would sit with me, helping me with my chemistry homework and offering emotional support. Her simple words, “You’re going to be okay, you know. I don’t know how it will work out, but I know you’re going to be okay,” became a flicker of hope in the midst of my darkness.
Another significant moment came from my therapist, Ernie. He likened me to a cat stuck in a tree, waiting for rescue, but assured me that one day, I would be the one helping others down from their trees. This analogy struck a chord with me, offering a new perspective and a glimmer of hope for my future.
A Relatable Example
Many people experience periods of profound darkness during their teenage years. The pressures of academic performance, social dynamics, and personal identity can be overwhelming. Reflect on your own teenage years. Did you ever feel like you were trapped in darkness? How did you find moments of light and hope during those times?
For me, the darkness taught me to rely on my faith and to seek out the light in small, everyday moments. It showed me that hope can often be found in the most unexpected places and that even the deepest night will eventually give way to dawn.
Finding Hope
These experiences, though painful, became the foundation for my faith journey. They taught me that darkness isn’t something to fear but to navigate with patience and trust. They showed me that hope is not the absence of darkness but the ability to find light within it.
Encouragement for Others
If you are navigating through your own period of darkness, know that you are not alone. Seek out those small flickers of light, whether they come from a kind word, a supportive friend, or a moment of peace. Trust that the light is there, even when it feels distant, and that you have the strength to find your way through.
