THE DEAL OF PAIN (By Robert Chapman)

How many times do we avoid certain issues in life simply because they either hurt too much or leave us fealing angry? Too often we neglect to remember times in our past when the reflection in the mirror held the image of the truth, the image of hurt, pain, bitterness, and heartbreak.

Last night I went to watch the Morrison Heights Baptist Church senior high youth choir, and although that is a mouthful of letters and syllables, they did a great job presenting their message. One thing they did that caught my attention was talk about real life events in a way that seemed not to hold back any punches. One of the topics the drama touched on was dealing with an alcoholic parent who is nothing but negative.

This got me to thinking as I caught myself starting to feel a little uneasy with the subject. First of all, the fact that I was made uncomfortable is evidence to the fact that their message was strong and to the point. It created in me a need to examine my own life.

I noticed myself thinking to myself, “Self, isn’t this odd how you haven’t dealt with alcoholism in your family, but you still feel uneasy with such blatant talk and dramatic scenes?!”

Many people that I know have dealt with alcoholism or addiction in one form or another; whether it was an addiction that held onto them tightly or it was a family member or friend that it haunted.

What I’m trying to get at is the fact that “unpretty” topics such as addiction, divorce, or the death of someone we know and love, they all leave us in a state of confusion and uncomfortable depression.

For us who have dealt with any of this, and those of you who will, try not to shy away from a 20/20 episode or a Sunday school lesson that stirs uneasiness in your heart and your soul. Deal with it! If only for the reason to reflect on the subject and remember where you once were and where you are now.

It is easy and fun to remember that time when you were with your buddies goofing off or with your friends doing something fun. However, it is hard to think about those painful memories, but it is necessary for you to develop in to the man or woman you are to be.