The Broken can become the Menders

By Lelia Schott

I used to have panic attacks. I would hide during these episodes because children depend on me to be strong and set an example. I am able to self-regulate and control my negative thought patterns very well now.  
 
Occasionally, I still feel anxiety fidgeting inside of me. Sometimes it taunts me. My Love listens. He doesn’t accuse me of being a paranoid drama queen. He tells me what I need to hear.  

In the beginning, he held me in his arms and rocked me until I was calm. He reminded me there was nowhere else he’d rather be, and was here to stay.

He told me I was going to be okay. Day after day. Year after year. And he did stay. And I am okay. 
 
No longer ashamed, I’m more comfortable being vulnerable and imperfect. I’ve learnt a lot through my research on child development and conscious parenting. I am learning how to self-nurture as I nurture others. We are growing and grateful to be healing individually and collectively.  
 
I just wanted to celebrate the power of compassion and honour the people who empathise with those who struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, or any symptom of a wounded heart or mind.

Your unconditional love is extremely powerful. It is life-giving. And can be life-saving. 

We are broken in relationships and can heal through relationships. I work on my mental and relational health and dedicate my life to helping others do the same.  
 
In this way “The broken become masters at mending.” – Mike Murdock 

Lelia Schott is a South African mother to four sons and two daughters (aged 22, 20, 18, 15, 8 and 5). Lelia is a certified parent coach, unschooler, independent researcher, writer, dreamer, peaceful parenting and child advocate, lover of nature, music and exercise. On her best days she can be found with her family in the garden, swimming or walking along the beach.