In light of actor Robin William's suicide and the theme of community this week, I would like to share the following quote that I found enlightening and affirming recently.
As someone who has battled with situational deep depression and anxiety, I can speak to the value and blessing of community, in a similar way that Vanier describes below.
Jean Vanier, founder of the L’Arche communities, said, “My experience has shown that when we welcome people from this world of anguish, brokenness and depression, and when they gradually discover that they are wanted and loved as they are and that they have a place, then we witness a real transformation – I would even say ‘resurrection.’ Their tense, angry, fearful, depressed body gradually becomes relaxed, peaceful and trusting. This shows through the expression on the face and through all their flesh. As they discover a sense of belonging, that they are part of a ‘family,’ then the will to live begins to emerge. I do not believe it is of any value to push people into doing things unless this desire to live and to grow has begun to emerge.”
Do you agree?
