I was invited to a book club sponsored by our parish priest Father Tom Krieg several months ago. The group of about a dozen people read my book titled, “SuperHuman Being.” The questions centered around my history of a mental health challenge and what role God is having in my healing.
I had several green bandanas available to give out to those in attendance. Supporting and wearing a Green Bandanna will help change the conversation by reducing stigma affiliated with mental illness, addiction, and trauma and nurture an open exchange about mental health experiences. For more information go to https://superhumanbeing.net/ Wearing the bandana in public by attaching it to a purse, or backpack indicates that you are…
*a safe person to approach with a mental health-related issue
*willingness to listen
* knowledgeable about the resources available in your area and
*able to provide help and support in times of crisis
After handing out the bandanas I realized I was one short for Father Tom. I made a mental note in my mind that I would bring it to the next weekend’s mass. Well, that spilled over into several weekends because I kept forgetting to bring one to him.
Finally, on Saturday, December 23, 2023, I made an effort to place a bandana in our vehicle to ensure I did not forget it. We attended Christmas mass at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 24, 2023. My wife and I enjoy the children’s mass despite our daughters all in their 20s. It reminds me to have a child-like attitude toward Christmas. I find myself full of wonder, curiosity, and a deep connection to the baby Jesus.
Are you wondering what all this has to do with a green bandana that I gave to Father Tom? On Christmas Day December 25, 2023 I received an email from Father Tom at 1:27 p.m. I opened it and this image appeared :
This took my breath away and tugged my heart to remember Jesus is always with me as I continue my journey of Recovery. His arms are always open to love and accept me (the arms can be placed in different positions)
Could you do me a favor? During the next two days take 5 minutes to meditate on this image. What comes to mind, touches your heart, or cleanses your soul? If you are comfortable sharing with me I would love to hear from you. Anything you share with me is confidential unless you give me permission to offer it to others.
Peace
Larry
email: ljw@superhumanbeing
website: https://superhumanbeing.net/