Gratitude & Perspective

What defines you? 
If someone asks you that question, what would you say? 
A mother? A sister? A daughter? A friend? A teacher? A runner? 

Yesterday in therapy, I made the statement that I was concerned about being defined by depression.  "Don't let that happen.  You are so much more than that Natalie."  Yes, I am.  We are all so much more than our mental health diagnosis, our jobs, our daily roles.  I am a child of God and a wife who happens to suffer from depression.  It's all about how I choose to prioritize who I am.  Don't let others decide who you are.  Decide for yourself! 

Right now I am in the depths of recovery so it's hard not to let depression define me or my marriage.  However, I am aware.  Awareness is key.  I am aware that one day I won't be focused on therapy, support groups, research, blogs.  I am also aware that experiencing pain makes me appreciate joy even more.  I have a friend I text with every morning and we both say, Good morning, today I am grateful for.......  It holds me accountable.  It makes me start each day with a positive.  I'm here to tell you there are some mornings I want to grumble and send a complaint.  But, I don't.  Gratitude.  

I made the statement Saturday to my parents and JT, "I wouldn't trade what I've been through for anything.  I feel amazing and so much better than I ever knew I could."  They all 3 looked at me like I was an alien.   Mercy!  They would trade all of the worry, guilt and sleepless nights I'm sure.  Perspective. 

I am not my depression.

xo...n      

Guest Blog...And in all things be thankful

Angie Dillon Morton....Christian mother of 4, wife of l, loyal friend to many, Auburn alum, driver of kids, homework Nazi, Bible study facilitator, Griffin native, Tampa transplant

Admittedly, I wrote Angie's bio.  She's too humble in my opinion to tout her attributes.  She has too many to summarize.  Suffice it to say, when going into any crisis, you want her on your team.  And on my team she has been.  Enjoy this most appropriate Easter guest blog from Angie. 

I love you my sweet friend.  Happy Easter! 


I have always believe there are 2 kinds of people, those who are in counseling and those who need to go to counseling.  I have never been to a professional counselor, but I have often sought counseling.  Be it from my parents, my husband, friends, or a stranger that did not understand the impact of their words, I have most certainly been in counseling.  The definition of counselor is "someone who advises," and we all have a friend or person we call for sound advice or just to listen.  Each of us has the "something" that we deal with, we all have struggles.  They look different from person to person, but we all have them. 


We live in a fallen world and we are not perfect.  After all isn't that what Easter is all about?  To remind us the Jesus, the One and only, died for us to save us from our sins, to proclaim victory for us and to free us from the sin we cannot escape?  John 16:33 says, "...You will have suffering in this world.  Be courageous!  I have conquered the world."  He died for you and He died for me so that we may have eternal life; a life free of suffering.  My pastor said, that when we are suffering we must "live with quiet strength in us that makes people stand up and take notice."  Life is  not always easy and life is not always fair, but in the end, because of the cross, we will be victorious!  

I am standing Natalie; standing in admiration of your strength and determination, standing in awe of your bravery.  You are right; God will never waste a hurt.  He will use it to glorify Him.  

And in all things be thankful...

Happy Resurrection Day! 

Angie