In our latest episode of “Thrive by The Rising Muse,” we are honored to have Tanisha Bankston, the remarkable author and founder of the ministry “My Pain is My Power,” share her deeply personal and transformative journey. This episode delves into the profound impact of childhood trauma and the incredible power of faith and resilience in overcoming life’s most challenging moments.
A Glimpse into Tanisha’s Journey
From an early age, Tanisha faced unimaginable pain and adversity. Her story begins at just five years old when she endured abuse and was subsequently disbelieved by those she trusted. This traumatic experience silenced her inner voice and set her on a path of fear, shame, and self-doubt that spanned nearly three decades.
In “My Pain is My Power,” Tanisha courageously recounts her journey of finding her voice again and reclaiming her life through faith. She speaks candidly about the struggles she faced, the healing power of prayer, and how she transformed her pain into a source of strength to empower others.
Tanisha also shares valuable information about her ministry, “My Pain is My Power,” and its mission to support women and children who have experienced similar traumas. She discusses the various initiatives and programs her ministry offers and how the community can better support individuals on their healing journeys.
Why You Should Listen
This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith. Tanisha’s story is not just one of survival but of thriving against all odds. Her journey from pain to power is an inspiration to anyone who has faced adversity and seeks hope and healing.
Tune In and Be Inspired
Don’t miss this compelling episode of “Thrive by The Rising Muse.” Tanisha’s story will leave you inspired, uplifted, and ready to embrace the power within yourself to overcome any obstacle.
Tanisha Bankston is a mother of 3 children from Grenada, Mississippi. She is a survivor of childhood abuse and domestic violence, and now an author and speaker. Tanisha was abused at the age of 5, leading her to lose her inner voice and withdraw into a shell for 27 years. She was taken from her mother, separated from her siblings, and adopted by her aunt. Despite feeling protected, she faced further challenges within the broken judicial system. Tanisha became a teen mom at 14 and again at 17. She rediscovered her inner voice on July 3, 2020, and found healing and deliverance from her pain and past on September 4, 2020. Tanisha wrote and self-published her book “My Pain is My Power” on May 21, 2021. She created a private support group for survivors called “I Believe You” on Facebook and founded the nonprofit organization I Believe You Inc. Tanisha launched her podcast, “My Pain is My Power Podcast,” on April 1, 2022, aiming to inspire others that they can overcome their challenges with hope.
Listen to the full episode on here and join us in supporting Tanisha’s mission to empower others through her ministry.
Be sure to subscribe to “Thrive by The Rising Muse” for more inspiring stories and insightful discussions on faith, family, and mental health. Follow us on [social media links] and stay connected for updates on future episodes and special guests.
Together, let’s turn pain into power and support one another on our journeys of healing and growth.
As the back-to-school season approaches, families everywhere are bustling with preparations. But what does back-to-school look like for homeschooling families compared to those with children in traditional schools? Our latest episode of ‘Thrive by The Rising Muse’ dives deep into this very topic with our special guest, Nicole Richards, a dedicated homeschooling mother and life coach.
One of the highlights of this episode is Nicole’s philosophy of fitting education to the child, rather than forcing the child into a rigid educational model. She shares how she tailors the educational experience to meet the individual needs of each of her children, creating a learning environment that fosters growth and creativity.
Balancing homeschooling with a professional career can be challenging. Nicole opens up about how she manages her dual roles as a homeschooling parent and a life coach. She offers practical advice and encouragement for parents considering homeschooling but worried about juggling these responsibilities.
Social Interactions and Extracurricular Activities
How do homeschoolers ensure their children have ample social interactions and extracurricular opportunities? Nicole discusses the various avenues available to homeschooling families that might not be as accessible to traditionally schooled children. From co-op groups to specialized classes, she provides a wealth of information on how to enrich the homeschooling experience.
Are you curious about homeschooling? Do you want to learn more about how to tailor education to fit your child’s unique needs? Tune in to this episode of ‘Thrive by The Rising Muse’ for an inspiring conversation that will leave you informed and motivated. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or just exploring the idea, Nicole’s insights are sure to resonate with you.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and tips from a seasoned homeschooler. Listen to the full episode now on ‘Thrive by The Rising Muse’ and join the conversation!
About Nichole Richards
Nicole Richards is an Bestselling Author, Podcaster, Human Potential and Personal Reinvention Coach. She works with faith-focused visionaries and executives seeking the biblical connection, between faith, and business. Her methodology with clients is based on a ‘whole life approach,’ helping people discover their ‘life’s work’ by establishing meaningful connections in their business and relationships.
Nicole had a successful 22-year career as an entrepreneur in the beauty and wedding industry. Her multi-six-figure business included a retail store and a team of 15 artists. After closing her studio and retiring her brushes, she now uses her business expertise to help others achieve fulfilment in their financial and spiritual journeys.
Her Podcast, Minding His Business, explores the fascinating intersection between business, life and exploring our faith. Through engaging discussions and thought-provoking interviews, listeners are taken on a journey of self-discovery in building the connections between building a business based on faith. She stresses the importance of running a business that aligns with God’s word. She gives her listeners the tools and inspiration needed to thrive in their professional lives and walk with God. Nicole homeschools her children near Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
In the latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda tackle a topic that is both timely and crucial: teenage depression. Joined by licensed counselor Taylor Warren, the discussion dives deep into the complexities of adolescent mental health, offering invaluable insights for parents, guardians, and anyone involved in the lives of teenagers.
Teenage depression is more than just occasional sadness or mood swings; it’s a serious mental health condition that can have far-reaching consequences. During the episode, Taylor Warren highlights the importance of recognizing the signs of depression, which can often be mistaken for typical teenage behavior. Persistent sadness, withdrawal from social activities, changes in eating and sleeping habits, and a noticeable drop in academic performance are just a few of the red flags to watch out for.
One of the most eye-opening segments of the episode focuses on the role of social media in teenage depression. Taylor discusses how the constant exposure to curated and often unrealistic images can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem among teens. The hosts explore practical strategies for parents to help their teens navigate this digital landscape, such as setting boundaries for phone usage and encouraging real-life interactions.
Communication is a recurring theme throughout the episode. Taylor emphasizes the need for parents to create a safe space where their teenagers feel comfortable expressing their feelings without fear of judgment. The hosts share tips on how to validate a teen’s emotions and the importance of listening without immediately offering solutions.
Another crucial aspect covered in the episode is the importance of seeking professional help when needed. Taylor explains that it’s okay for parents to not have all the answers and that therapists can provide the support and guidance necessary for a teen’s recovery. The discussion also touches on the role of trusted adults, such as mentors and church leaders, in supporting teenagers through their struggles.
The episode concludes with a range of practical tips for parents to help their teens thrive despite the challenges of depression. From promoting healthy habits like proper sleep and nutrition to being a role model in handling stress, these actionable steps are designed to empower parents in their journey to support their teenagers.
Tune In for More
This episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand and support teenagers dealing with depression. Taylor Warren’s expertise, combined with Naty and Veda’s heartfelt approach, makes for an episode that is both informative and deeply empathetic.
Don’t miss out on this enlightening discussion. Tune in to the full episode to gain more insights and practical advice on how to help teens navigate the challenges of depression in today’s digital age.
Taylor Warren is an education specialist, licensed professional counselor, and the owner of The Grove Counseling & Consulting. She specializes in supporting teen girls and women in the areas of anxiety, self-esteem, perfectionism, and eating disorders.
Subscribe to Thrive by The Rising Muse and follow us on social media for more episodes on faith, family, and mental health.
In this heartfelt interview, we sit down with Kim Gilson, a Christian author and certified Zig Ziglar trainer, to discuss her journey of faith, resilience, and the inspiration behind her latest book, “Made for Community: A Biblical Model to Activate Your Purpose.” Join us as Kim shares her experiences and insights on navigating grief, the power of community, and finding joy and purpose through faith.
How did you navigate the challenges of losing your husband while starting a new job and caring for your sons?
Kim Gilson: I know people say to take it one day at a time. Honestly, that was too much. Some days I just made it from one meal to the next. I adopted the word “forward” and set my face towards building a new normal. I really didn’t have an “Option B.” I had no choice but to get up each day and do the next thing. I was fortunate that I had great family and friends who carried us along the way!
What role did faith play in your journey towards finding joy again for you and your boys?
Kim Gilson: I don’t know how people survive a major loss without the Lord. I believed He would take care of us, and I saw so many ways He fulfilled His promise. I was in church one Sunday by myself thinking, “I’m alone.” I so clearly heard His voice say, “You’ll never be alone.” I held onto that. My faith gave me the hope that Paul was in a better place and we would find our Promised Land on this side of heaven.
What were some of the key moments or realizations that helped you find strength and hope during those difficult times?
Kim Gilson: The night he died, I vowed I would fight for our joy. I couldn’t let that be the last good day my boys had. I knew if they were going to have joyful whole lives, I had to show them it was OK and I had to show them how. I saw a long dark tunnel ahead of me, but I knew if I squinted hard enough, I could see a flicker of light. I held on to the belief that we would find our new normal and smile again.
How did your relationship with your sons evolve as you all worked together to rebuild your lives?
Kim Gilson: It’s one of my proudest accomplishments in life. I knew I had to be a safe place for them. I’d say we gave each other space and grace to make mistakes. If any of us messed up, we forgave quickly. I recently remarried, and at the reception, one of them made a speech about how I led them through that time to give them the lives they have today. He had everyone in tears. When the other took the mic, I braced for more! He thanked my new husband for taking my antique shopping so they didn’t have to! The entire room burst into laughter. I just thought, “Those are my boys!” I’m so proud of their resilience.
Kim Gilson: It was a very organic process. I had a “moment” in our ladies’ Bible study where I felt like I didn’t belong and started to leave. I heard the Lord say, “You sit right there. I created you in my image and it’s too vast, too perfect for any one person to represent all of me. Sit right there and contribute your piece of the puzzle.” He continued to show me things through scripture, experience, and revelation that led to a sermon and a class. I realized it all went together to make a book!
Can you explain the analogy of cups and pitchers and how it relates to your message in the book?
Kim Gilson: God designed us to live in reciprocal relationships where we pour into and receive from each other, like pitchers pouring into cups. At some point, the cups should overflow and become pitchers themselves. No one can hear the words “Well done, good and faithful servant” unless they help other people hear them.
What are the main themes you hope readers will take away from your book?
Kim Gilson: I hope they first of all appreciate how God designed them to contribute to the Body of Christ. Then I hope they appreciate how God designed other people for them to engage in cups and pitcher relationships.
How does your book address the current climate of division and loneliness?
Kim Gilson: I hope it gives people a new way to think about themselves and others. We are more dependent on each other than we realize. So many people are isolated at home, and I’d love to think this encourages them to branch out and take a chance on engaging with other people again.
How does your book define and describe the concept of community from a biblical perspective?
Kim Gilson: Paul describes the Body of Christ. Each of us has a valuable part to make, and though one part may look more important, all are necessary for God’s Kingdom on this earth!
Can you elaborate on how reciprocal relationships among the body of Christ can help individuals fulfill their God-given purposes?
Kim Gilson: God’s purposes for our lives seldom are limited to our benefit. We often think our hopes and dreams are for our gain, fame, fortune, or reputation. They invariably impact other people. That impact will bless others in a way that enables their contribution. Say for instance you’re a business owner. Your business provides goods or services to others, but you also serve as a provider to your employees. That provision enables families to meet their needs. One of many examples would be paying for a child’s education to pursue God’s calling on his/her life.
What practical steps do you suggest for readers who want to build and nurture these reciprocal relationships?
Kim Gilson: You’ve got to make the first step. We can’t just wait for someone else to reach out to us and then be sad if it doesn’t happen. There’s a good chance whoever you approach is also hungry for connection! When you go to church, get there early enough to talk to people, invite someone to lunch or coffee, attend an event or go to Bible study. I’m also a big believer in Meetup.com. This is an unpaid advertisement for them, but it’s where I met my new husband! I joined a Christian Singles group merely looking for new friends and found him.
How can churches and Christian communities implement the model you propose to foster a stronger sense of belonging and purpose among their members?
Kim Gilson: I led a class on this model at my church. We gave people a chance to explore their personality types, spiritual giftings, and talents. As they shared with others, people learned about themselves and each other in new ways. We even did an activity where people told in what ways they’re cups or pitchers, so they could see how they could combine forces. Anything the church can do to foster connection and conversations with people who don’t normally interact at that level will go far towards progress in this area.
Looking back on the past ten years, what are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned about faith, resilience, and community?
Kim Gilson: God is always up to something good, even when things look the worst. You can’t control what happens to you, only your response. Joy is a choice. Life is a group project. We’re meant to do it together.
How has your journey influenced your understanding of God’s goodness and purpose for your life?
Kim Gilson: As long as there is breath in us, God still has a purpose for our lives. Each day we wake up, it’s for a reason. Someday our clock will expire, but until then, we need to lean into His plans for us. I once heard Him tell me to “Honor the calling of today.”
What advice would you give to someone who is struggling with grief and loss?
Kim Gilson: Get therapy or counseling, depending on your circumstances. I went through Griefshare, and it was instrumental in my healing. You’ll know when it’s time!
How can individuals find joy and purpose after experiencing significant life challenges?
Kim Gilson: Believe that you will see God’s goodness in the land of the living, and there IS a promised land for you! The desert season won’t last forever.
What is the one message you would like to leave with our readers today?
Kim Gilson: The Body of Christ NEEDS YOU! No one is perfect. God is working to sanctify us all, and you don’t have to wait to have it all figured out before you can pour into and receive from others. Share what He’s given you and bless others by letting them bless you in return!
How can readers connect with you and learn more about your work and ministry?
Kim Gilson: I’m on Instagram and Facebook, or they can contact me via email at kimgilson@excellivate.com
Do you have any upcoming projects or plans that you would like to share with us?
Kim Gilson: My next plan is to repackage my testimony workbook with videos!
About Kim Gilson:
Kim Gilson was born to be a teacher. As far back as she can remember, she played school in her room, teaching dolls and stuffed animals from a chalkboard, and holding parent/teacher conferences with those who struggled. As she grew older, the stuffed animals became real students, to whom she taught band and then math. As her career in public education blossomed, Kim learned her passion was teaching adults, making difficult topics easier to understand and enjoying laughter in the process. The sudden loss of her husband, Paul, to a blood clot in 2014 sent her on a personal journey of grief and a battle to reclaim joy in her life for her and her sons. Wanting to share her zeal for life with others, she became a certified Zig Ziglar trainer, speaker, and coach. After retiring from public education in 2022, she felt a calling to utilize her teaching and speaking skills to revitalize the hearts, minds, and dreams of people, activating them towards fulfilling their God-given purpose. Kim lives in Midlothian, Texas with her 2 dogs, Duchess and Cosmo. Her sons, Trent and Cade, have grown into fine young men pursuing their own dreams. She and her husband, Don, enjoy traveling across Texas to take selfies in front of its many courthouses. Kim approaches everything in life with passion and humor, and her hatred of kale is legendary. She attends Harvest Hill Church, where she’s a member of the preaching team. Kim’s website is excellivate.com
Are you ready to embark on a journey of healing and transformation? In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we are joined by the inspiring Dr. Toni Cooper, a renowned psychologist, author, and public speaker. With decades of experience in the fields of anxiety, depression, and dysfunctional family dynamics, Dr. Cooper shares her profound insights on coping strategies and how to deepen our connection to God.
Embrace Faith, Family, and Mental Health
In this episode, our hosts, Naty and Veda, delve into meaningful conversations that matter. They explore the intersection of faith, family, and mental health, offering wisdom and guidance to help you live a life fully alive. Dr. Cooper’s expertise and compassionate approach make this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking to overcome emotional and mental hurdles.
Key Topics Discussed:
The Inspiration Behind Dr. Cooper’s Work: Discover what inspired Dr. Cooper to focus on anxiety, depression, and adult survivors of dysfunctional families in her book and podcast.
Understanding Learned Helplessness: Learn about the concept of learned helplessness and how recognizing it can benefit you.
Practical Coping Strategies: Get practical tips for managing emotions, especially during challenging times.
Dealing with Toxic Guilt: Understand the origins of toxic guilt and how to release it while embracing forgiveness.
The Role of Faith: Explore how one’s view of God impacts their ability to draw on their faith, particularly in times of crisis.
Overcoming Mental Health Stigma: Gain insights on how to overcome the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage those in need to seek help.
Why You Should Listen
Dr. Cooper’s work is truly inspirational. She combines her professional expertise with a deep understanding of faith to offer strategies that are both practical and spiritually enriching. Whether you are personally struggling with mental health issues or looking to support a loved one, this episode provides valuable tools and encouragement.
Listen Now
Tune in toThrive by The Rising Muse to hear this enlightening conversation. Subscribe to our podcast, share it with your friends and family, and leave us a review. Your support helps us reach more people who can benefit from these conversations.
Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Embrace your faith, cherish your family, and take care of your mental health. Together, we can thrive.
If you’re in a crisis, please call 988. If someone you love is in a crisis, call 911 or take them to the nearest emergency room. Don’t forget to check out Dr. Cooper’s resources. Stay strong, and until next time, don’t forget to thrive!
About Toni Cooper
Dr. Toni Cooper is a psychologist, author, and public speaker. Since 1986, she has been teaching adults the strategies to grow emotionally, build healthy relationships, heal from trauma, and experience God at a deeper level. Toni’s mission is to help people find the courage, confidence, and comfort they need through a deeper bond with Jesus Christ. She has served as a college instructor, retreat and conference speaker, and teacher of continuing education for mental health professionals. For many years, Toni helped train medical students as an adjunct assistant professor at the Northeast Ohio Universities College of Medicine. She is a frequent guest on local radio discussing topics related to coping with life’s challenges. In 2019, Toni felt led to “go digital” with her message to help people become Fully Alive in Christ. At that time, she started a YouTube channel to help people develop practical coping strategies from a Biblical perspective. In 2021, the Lord prompted Dr. Cooper to start a podcast, “Life Without Baggage”. The purpose of the podcast is to help people understand how to deepen their connection to the Lord and break through emotional baggage to walk out their destiny.
The Lord has given Dr. Cooper 7 books that help people hear the voice of the Lord, correct distortions in their thinking, build confidence in how to study the Bible, and break into the blessings of God. Dr. Cooper is in private practice at WellSpring Counseling Center in Uniontown, Ohio. In her free time Toni enjoys pickle ball, hiking, and ballroom dancing.
In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we dive deep into the powerful and uplifting story of Angie Clayton, a remarkable woman who has navigated the tumultuous waters of bipolar disorder to emerge as a beacon of hope and advocacy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration, practical advice, and a fresh perspective on mental health.
Angie’s journey from the depths of depression and a challenging bipolar diagnosis to becoming an influential voice in mental health advocacy is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Her book, Peering into the Tunnel: An Outsider’s Look into Grief, not only provides practical tips for helping others through grief but also reflects her deeply personal struggles and triumphs.
In this candid interview, Angie opens up about her early experiences with mental health challenges and the pivotal moment that led her to seek professional help. She discusses the transformative impact of medication, the vital role of faith in her journey, and how she overcame the stigma surrounding mental health within her community. Angie’s insights are both enlightening and empowering, offering listeners practical advice and hope.
One of the key themes of this episode is the significant stigma that still surrounds mental health, especially in certain communities. We explore ways to break down these barriers and encourage open, supportive conversations about mental health. Angie’s story is a testament to the power of vulnerability and the importance of seeking help.
This episode is more than just a story; it’s a call to action. Whether you’re struggling with your own mental health, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in understanding more about these issues, Angie’s story offers valuable lessons and hope.
About Angie
Angie Clayton is an author, speaker and blogger who has a passion for ministering to the grieving. Some of her writing reflects those experiences. She is a storyteller, and her blog, Framing the Days, is rich with diversity. She has a ministry of presence, and spends much time with grieving women. Her blog shares with you the joys and beauty of both the mountain tops and the valleys of her life. Her book, “Peering into the Tunnel: An Outsider’s Look into Grief,” is a collection of real stories, as well as helpful suggestions for how to come alongside someone who is grieving. Angie has been married to Greg for over three decades. They live in the Kansas City area and have 2 grown children and four grandchildren. Angie is “Nini” to them, and she loves spending time with them.
Don’t miss this compelling episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform, leave us a review, and join our community on social media for more content on faith, family, and mental health. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Threads , and on YouTube.
Take the First Step Today
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, don’t hesitate to seek help. Call 988 for immediate assistance or 911 in case of an emergency. Remember, taking care of your mental health is a sign of strength, and there is always help available.
Join us as we continue to explore the intersections of faith, family, and mental health, and remember—no matter what challenges you face, don’t forget to thrive.
Stay tuned, stay strong, and let’s thrive together!
As the 4th of July approaches, we often find ourselves reflecting on the concepts of liberty and independence that form the bedrock of our nation. But what if we told you that there’s a deeper level of freedom that can profoundly affect your mental well-being? In our latest episode of “Thrive by The Rising Muse,” we dive into the spiritual freedom presented in the Bible and its remarkable implications for mental health.
A Unique 4th of July Perspective
In this special episode, hosts Naty and Veda bring a refreshing take on what it means to be truly free. While fireworks and barbecues are wonderful traditions, the freedom that stems from spiritual liberation offers a sense of purpose, hope, and resilience that transcends our everyday experiences.
Biblical Narratives on Freedom
We journey through some of the most powerful stories in the Bible, starting with the Old Testament’s account of the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. This tale of physical and spiritual liberation showcases God’s enduring commitment to freeing people from oppression. We also explore the Year of Jubilee, a time when debts were forgiven and slaves were freed, highlighting a divine mandate for economic and social justice.
In the New Testament, we delve into Paul’s writings, particularly Galatians 5:1, which speaks about the freedom found in Christ. This spiritual freedom, as emphasized by Jesus in John 8:36, transcends physical circumstances and liberates believers from the bondage of sin.
Freedom’s Impact on Mental Health
But how does this biblical concept of freedom translate into mental health benefits? Throughout the episode, Naty and Veda discuss:
A Sense of Purpose and Identity: Understanding your place and purpose through spiritual freedom can significantly boost self-esteem and reduce feelings of worthlessness.
Resilience and Coping Mechanisms: The promise of eternal life and the support of a faith community provide hope and resilience, essential for coping with life’s challenges.
Ethical and Moral Guidance: Biblical principles offer a moral compass, reducing internal conflict and stress by aligning actions with values.
Addressing Guilt and Shame: The belief in redemption through Christ provides a pathway to deal with guilt and shame, offering solace and a chance to start anew.
A Call to Reflect and Engage
As we celebrate this Independence Day, we encourage you to reflect on these timeless biblical truths and consider how they can transform your mental health. Whether you’re seeking support within a faith community or exploring these principles individually, the freedom offered by the Bible can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Don’t miss out on this enlightening episode. Tune in to “Thrive by The Rising Muse” and discover how true freedom comes from within. Share your thoughts, leave a comment, and join us in building a community where faith, family, and mental health thrive together.
Stay blessed, stay free, and don’t forget to thrive. Happy 4th of July!
Are you seeking a way to find peace amidst life’s inevitable pains and challenges? Join us in our latest podcast episode as we delve deep into the essence of forgiveness—a journey from resentment to liberation.
On our most recent episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse we guide you through a profound conversation on forgiveness. With engaging and relatable storytelling, we explore how forgiveness intersects with faith, family, and mental health, offering transformative insights along the way.
We start by defining forgiveness through the lens of the American Psychology Association (APA), which describes it as an intentional process of letting go of anger and resentment while embracing empathy and compassion. They emphasize that forgiveness is not necessarily about reconciliation but about freeing oneself from the burden of bitterness.
There are 4 types of forgiveness:
Forgiving Others: The most common form, where you forgive someone who has hurt you.
Self-Forgiveness: Often the hardest, where you learn to forgive yourself for past mistakes.
Forgiving Circumstances: Letting go of resentment towards situations beyond your control.
Forgiving God: Acknowledging and processing feelings of anger towards God in times of personal loss or tragedy.
This episode also offers practical advice on how to embark on your own journey of forgiveness:
Acknowledge Your Pain: The first step is recognizing and admitting your hurt.
Gain Perspective: Try to understand the situation from different viewpoints.
Release Resentment: Learn to let go of grudges that weigh you down.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be patient and kind to yourself as you navigate the forgiveness process.
Seek Guidance: Whether through therapy, counseling, or spiritual guidance, don’t hesitate to seek help.
The Spiritual Dimension of Forgiveness
Our hosts discuss the spiritual aspects of forgiveness, referencing various scriptures that underscore the importance of forgiving others as God forgives us. They also touch on the necessity of forgiving God, a concept that might seem controversial but is essential for healing deep-seated anger and disappointment.
Why Listen?
This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with forgiveness. Whether you find it hard to forgive others, yourself, or even God, Naty and Veda provide compassionate and insightful guidance to help you release the emotional burdens that are holding you back.
Don’t miss out on this enlightening conversation that promises to uplift and inspire. Tune in to the Thrive podcast and start your journey towards true forgiveness today!
Ready to dive deeper into the topic of forgiveness? Click here to listen to the full episode now.
We recently had the privilege of hosting a deeply inspiring and insightful episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, where we delved into the profound topic of reclaiming strength after sexual abuse. Our special guest, Marie McKenzie, brought her unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience to the table, offering invaluable insights and support to survivors everywhere.
Meet Marie McKenzie
Marie McKenzie is not only a registered nurse but also a dedicated sexual assault recovery coach and an author. As a survivor of sexual abuse herself, Marie’s journey of healing and empowerment is both touching and motivating. Her professional background in nursing, especially her experience in caring for survivors of sexual violence, adds a profound depth to her understanding of the recovery process.
Key Highlights from the Episode
Marie’s Personal Journey: Marie opened up about her personal experience that led her to become a recovery coach. She shared how her own assault at the age of 11 shaped her path and how she didn’t disclose it until she was almost 60. Despite her role as a caregiver and advocate in her professional life, she struggled with her own healing for many years.
Minimizing Abuse: One striking topic we explored was the tendency of survivors to minimize their abuse. Marie recounted a poignant story from her social media about a woman who said, “I wasn’t abused, I was just fondled.” This conversation highlighted how many survivors downplay their experiences due to a lack of understanding about what constitutes sexual assault and the various ways it manifests.
Common Triggers: Marie explained the myriad of triggers that survivors might face, from certain smells and sounds to specific objects or situations that remind them of their trauma. She emphasized that these triggers can be deeply personal and vary widely among individuals.
Reactions to Trauma: We also delved into the different reactions survivors might have, such as promiscuity or avoidance. Marie shared her insights on how these reactions are often misunderstood and the importance of recognizing them as part of the trauma response.
Taking the First Step
According to Marie, the first step to recovery is recognizing and accepting that the trauma does not define the survivor. Healing is a possible and ongoing journey, and it’s crucial to seek help and support. Marie’s message is clear: “You are not your trauma, and you don’t have to let it have the final say in your life”.
Marie’s Memoir: “Things That Keep Me Up at Night”
Marie also shared about her book, “Things That Keep Me Up at Night,” which is a memoir of her own experiences. Writing this book was a significant part of her healing journey and has become a beacon of hope for many others. It’s a raw and honest account that provides not only a window into her life but also a source of inspiration for others on similar paths.
Marie has graced us with a gift for all of us. Click on this link.
Tune In to the Full Episode
This episode of Thrive is more than just a conversation; it’s a lifeline for many survivors out there. Marie McKenzie’s wisdom and compassion shine through as she offers practical advice and emotional support. Don’t miss out on this powerful episode.
Click here to watch the full episode and join us in this vital conversation. Remember to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from it.
Join the Community
At Thrive by The Rising Muse, we are committed to supporting survivors and fostering discussions on faith, family, and mental health. Stay connected with us for more episodes that inspire and empower.
Proverbs 3:3-4NIV Let love and faithfulness never leave you Bind them around your neck, write them on the tablets of your heart Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.
All of us are known for something… Our behavior is usually the cause of our reputation. It would be a pretty great thing for people to think of us as loving and faithful. This verse makes me think of the multitude of times I have read on social media some form of “I don’t care what anyone thinks of me.”
First of all, that’s not true. Every sane person cares at least a little bit about what broader society thinks of them, and they care even more what their circle thinks. Even people who wish to consider themselves really unique will only stray so far from the accepted norms of their chosen community. The larger majority will take precautions to stay safely within the boundaries of what they know their primary peer group will approve of because they care what those people think.
Oftentimes the people who claim to be living as their “most authentic self” are the most predictable. They faithfully copy the dress code, ideology, and catchphrases of the groups they want to feel a part of. You know what they will think and say before their lips ever move.
BUT, if you are a person who claims to not care what anyone thinks of you… why is that? A bad reputation can only hold you back in multiple dimensions of your life. Your reputation is going to affect the way people see your family members, your spouse, and your children. Your reputation could affect the way people view the organizations you are a part of and care about. Having a good reputation before God ought to be our primary goal, but we should also care what the people around us observe about us. There’s likely to be a lot of truth about our reputation—for better or for worse.
There’s an old Yiddish saying I’ve heard: “If your friend calls you a donkey, ignore him. If five friends call you a donkey, buy a saddle.
About Dan:
Daniel First has been an entrepreneur, song writer, worship leader, recording artist, speaker, and pastor. He has spent thirty years studying and teaching the Bible. He and his wife, Brandy, have been married for 28 years and have 7 children.
Dan’s book “Wisdom Cries Out” talks to us about the meaning of abundant life in God and the scriptures. You can obtain Dan’s book on Amazon , Prairie Lights Blooks and Barnes and Nobles.
Naty Matos 