Annette Marie Corwin
2017 FREEDOM & FLOURISHMENT
On the 16th of September, 1983, I chose to follow Jesus. For over twenty years I walked with Him as my best friend. Then in 2007, I sustained a traumatic brain injury. It permanently impaired my Cognitive ability and ended my paralegal career, my ability to sleep went from 8 blissful hours to insufficient 3-4 hours.
Sadly, a year later, wanting no part of the "restricted obedient life," I turned away from Jesus. For the next 7 years I endured more misery than any other time in my entire adult life. My "freedom" became a dark and lonely prison.
I kept recalling this verse from Galatians in the New Testament "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." Finally, 7 long years later, I returned to His embrace. He was there the whole time, arms opened wide, waiting for this choice that only I could make.
Three years later, I am quite happy to say that He is my constant companion. Life continues with its highs and lows. But I have my best of friends by my side. And that "restricted life" ... is no ball and chain. Quite the contrary, obedience to Him brings true freedom and fullness of joy.
The very interesting thing is how God has healed my "permanent Cognitive deficit" and despite insomnia I have more peace, more joy, in the midst of life's haboobs !
You have truly been there and back, Nette. It's so wonderful to know you are where you belong. In the center of his love and care. When I pray for you at night I smile in prayer because he knows exactly who I am referring to when I say, "Annette Marie Carr your little one that loves you so much." You are a joy to him, Sister. I can feel it so strongly. He smiles with me. I can't wait to spend eternity with you and my others Christian loved ones. :D Thank you for your honest and sincere testimony!
ReplyDeleteYour kind words and nightly prayers are a fragrant bouquet to me. Gosh Emmy, you have poured hours and hours, weeks, months, now years, into my sanity and growth and I am so much the better for them.
ReplyDeleteIt is wonderful walking hand in hand with Jesus, the author and perfector of my faith. Each year I hope to go deeper still.