While scrolling through the internet the other day, I came upon this funny quote: “Old Farmer’s Advice: Your fences need to be horse-high, pig-tight and bull strong!” Well, I thought that was great advice, if only I were dealing with horses, pigs and bulls.  But the reality of the situation is that I’m trying to learn how to set boundaries for myself, and for other difficult people (like me) whom I love but I’m not quite sure where to draw the line. 

As a kid, summers usually meant long road trips through the center of California for fishing trips with my dad. Along the way, there were several dirt roads that seemed to lead off into unknown places. My imagination would run wild with questions like, ‘Where does this lead?’ ‘Who paved these roads?’ ‘How do you know which one is the right one to take if there are no signs?’ And in a world before Google Maps, the thought of veering down one of these nameless routes felt dangerous and scary.

As the holiday season goes into full swing, we are aware of what comes with our celebrations: lots of activities, generous dessert tables and endless gatherings. It is, indeed, a time to be surrounded by family and friends. Most of us greet this time of the year with open arms and excitement; we look forward to spending extra time celebrating with those closest to us.

You may remember a scene in the movie Chariots of Fire where Eric Liddell says, “Circumstances may appear to wreck our lives and God’s plans, but God is not helpless among the ruins, God’s love is still working!” In 2012, I really wondered about the ruins and wondered what God could or would do…

Our son was first diagnosed with bipolar disorder at age 22, but it wasn’t until he turned 34 that he was able to accept the diagnosis and receive treatment. During the twelve years of his struggle with untreated mental illness, God taught me deep truths about how to keep believing in His light where there is only darkness, and trusting in His goodness when there is only pain. Here are just three of the lessons…