Sometimes, the weight is too heavy and the muscle "tears"—this is when the reckless choices or the "mean" comments happen. In weightlifting, a torn muscle needs rest and a doctor. In my life, that "tear" needs Grace and Medicine. It doesn't mean I’m weak; it means the load was temporarily more than any human could bear.

I am Bipolar and often HATE HATE that about myself because I am not like others I feel so deeply. I mean I feel like there’s no in between at times. I hate that I am so young and will be on multiple medications my entire life just to be a normal functioning person in society. Living with Bipolar disorder adds a complex layer to faith that many people don't have to navigate. Most people experience emotions like a radio playing at a reasonable volume. For me, that volume knob is often quite literally ripped off.

Le pido a Dios que nos guíe y nos llene de su paz.

Retaliation is just a confession that someone else has more power over your emotions than you do. When we 'match energy' with a toxic environment, we aren't protecting ourselves—we are surrendering our character. I had to learn that Agape love isn't a feeling I have for a difficult coworker; it’s the discipline of refusing to be 'easily provoked.' It’s the strength to stay quiet when the world is screaming, knowing that my worth is already set by the One who is patient, kind, and thinks no evil toward me.

Growing up as a 'parentified' child, I was conditioned to manage everyone else's mood to keep myself safe. I carried that trauma right onto the psych unit, letting a toxic system have total access to my health, my sleep, and my peace. If you let everyone have access to you, don't be surprised when there’s nothing left for the people who actually matter—like your family, your partner, or your own soul. It’s time to stop being a doormat and start being the steward of the life God actually entrusted to you.