I have had to deal with many things over the past several months and one of them is facing my scars and wounds in order to heal. The exact source and type of wounds is not something I feel comfortable discussing on this platform yet however in generalities we all have scars and wounds we need to deal with, and I hope to offer some encouragement.

Physical scars according to Webster are growths of tissue marking the spot where skin has healed after an injury. According to some doctors, physical scars can be an unwanted reminder of past trauma. Physical scars are something seen by others too. It may spark a story like -“oh that was from the crazy time I fell off my bike when I was twelve,” which invokes some regret but often a laugh. It may be the result of someone physically hurting you and that can be a painful story you do not wish to share with anyone or even remember. Physical scars often invoke empathy from those who see them or know you have them.

Emotional scars while also marking a spot where healing is needed, is occurring or has occurred are in my opinion much harder to deal with. This is because often others can’t see them and think you are just fine. They are often old and so buried that we don’t want to deal with them. These scars are something people often deal with alone or with the help of a counselor, but they are private scars that others can’t see to empathize with. These are often scars we do not wish to tell others about. The hurt and pain is as significant as if you had a cut into your abdomen. While often the pain of physical scars goes away after the injury heals, emotional scars can take so much longer to heal. We are often reminded of physical injuries when someone asks about the scar, touches it or we are bumped, and it is still tender. Emotional scars are the same, but it is often something subtle that triggers the pain again. Often those around us have no idea they have “bumped your scar.” It can be a comment similar the one that caused your original trauma, it can be your inner voice telling you that if you don’t behave or act a certain way the same pain will come back, it can be the voice of I am not good enough playing over and over, it can even be a visual sight, a song or a smell. Emotions are triggered by all of our senses. There is often a stigma to emotional scars saying they are the result of weakness, and this is absolutely not true. Emotional scars are something survivors have. They are often the result of hanging on in tough situations.

My encouraging word to everyone today is that we serve a God that is not only familiar with emotions he created them. We serve a savior that also experienced them. Jesus experienced anguish, betrayal and emotional pain along with physical pain. He has felt everything we could possibly feel. When you feel there isn’t anyone with empathy for your emotional scars that isn’t true. Jesus understands and wants to be your comforter he knows every emotional pain you have faced or are facing, and he is ready to help you. He will use each of those painful experiences to mold you into who he wants you to be to fulfill his perfect plan. He can and will help you heal.

Often times he puts people into your life that will assist with this healing. People who will listen, understand and have as much empathy as they would if they could physically see your scar. My advice is don’t be ashamed of your emotional pain. Let others help you! Don’t be afraid to let them in. Being vulnerable with your feelings is one of the scariest things ever, but when you take that step to let someone you trust in, true healing can begin. Everyone has emotional scars, so you are not alone. Be there for each other, seek God’s guidance, and don’t be ashamed of your emotions. Be patient with yourself – emotional trauma often takes significant time to occur and will take time to heal. Give yourself grace and time like you would offer to others.

Today I want to thank God for those trusted people in my life- I appreciate your support and understanding more than you will ever know. Helping me release things to Jesus and allowing him to start the healing process.