Twenty-five years ago, I was transferred to a mental health facility some distance from my family and friends. 

I had suffered from alcohol dependence and was diagnosed with schizophrenia. I greatly needed the assistance of mental health professionals.

Each year, my mother takes me to visit my relatives. On those occasions, I have grown to admire a lovely painting in the home of my aunt. It depicts a wide variety of colourful flowers.

 

The painting has drawn me to another understanding of my life by encouraging me to grow and develop wherever God has placed me, as these magnificent blossoms have grown where they were planted.

 

Jesus reminds us that the wild lilies of the field are not anxious about their role in life; they radiate with God’s purpose by being themselves.

I find satisfaction and great joy in the place where God has planted me.

 

I have not drunk alcohol for more than 13 years. I have developed loving relationships in the church I attend. After several changes in treatment, my medication therapy has brought about successful results. I want to be like one of the flowers in my aunt’s painting, planted in this lovely family of mental health residents.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to find peace where we are, even in the midst of trauma. Give us the power and grace to overcome mental illness and all obstacles to abundant life. Amen