By Ashley McIlwain
We all have a past. We all have baggage. We all have healing that needs to happen in our lives emotionally, spiritually, and relationally. Truthfully, we are all beautiful messes.
Often times we become acutely aware of this when we enter into a relationship. Suddenly our insecurities, fears, and brokenness rear their ugly heads taunting and tormenting us. Thoughts race through our minds of our inadequacies, and we begin to feel unlovable.
Some people respond to this onslaught of emotional bondage by shutting down. Others simply try to mask it all. The reality is that we need to face it all … honestly and openly. Yes, it’s painful and scary, but when we have met someone we are contemplating giving our heart to, then vulnerability and openness are absolutely essential to moving forward individually as well as in the relationship.
Most of what we think about ourselves is false messages … lies from Satan that try to deter us from the abundant blessings God has in store for us. If Satan can convince us that we are trash, then we never aspire to love, dream, or believe in God’s perfect plan for our life. Right?
That’s why we need to tackle our brokenness head on because each of us is fearfully and wonderfully made by a loving Creator (Psalm 139:14) who doesn’t make mistakes. And guess what? The person you are in love with has brokenness to deal with too, but he/she is still a masterpiece too. It’s about working together through the bruises and scars left by life and realizing that you aren’t damaged but rather equipped with valuable lessons you’ve learned through your experiences. You are stronger, wiser, and refined.
There’s a song that paints a picture of this healing process so beautifully. It’s by a band that I am superbly proud to say I went to college with. Unfortunately I never had the opportunity to build a friendship with them, but I did get to listen to them play around campus. While they may not know me, it doesn’t stop me from being ridiculously supportive and excited for them and the way God is using their band and inspirational music.
Tenth Avenue North is a band that gets it. Their music is straight from the heart with messages that speak to the heart. In one of their lesser known songs, Oh My Dear, you are taken on an intimate journey between two people working through their pain and brokenness.
Take a listen, and let me know what you think! By the way, you can snag this song (or any of their songs) here. You can also get the full scoop on Tenth Avenue North by visiting their website.
*To comment on this entry, simply click on the “no comment” link in blue just below the post (if someone has already commented, you will see a number instead of “no” in front of “comment”). Fill out the form that pops up. Your name & email are not required. Once you have entered your comment, click on the “Submit a Comment,” and it will appear once it is approved for posting.”
