Welcome to Dymphna's Diary

Although I am not Catholic, I find it interesting that "Dymphna" is the patron saint of those who suffer from clinical depression and other mental illnesses. Considering the purpose of this site is to offer inspiration and spiritual guidance to my readers, I felt it was only right I chose her namesake for the title.

In 2010, this site was set up to pass along personal information about how depression has affected my life and the lives of my family. Since then, it has EVOLVED. In 2011, I attempted to present posts that were INSPIRATIONAL to you, my readers. In 2012, I went even deeper with personal stories from people across the United States via touching videos, songs, and interviews. My hope was to show each of you that even when you feel that you are in a situation that no one else could understand, you are not alone. Through it all, my comments have remained to be my personal opinions and spiritual reflections. I will continue to occasionally post information that I feel is beneficial in removing the stigma of mental illness, but regardless I feel blessed to have been given this platform to spread God's love and compassion for ALL people. I wouldn't be where I am today without the strength I receive daily from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. My hope is that this blog will help you find some comfort in your life. It most certainly is helping me find comfort in mine.

I want to make it perfectly clear, though, that when I make generalizations regarding mental illness, I am NOT giving advice to anyone. I'm just passing along information that I have found helpful in my life. I'm writing about MY PERSONAL experiences and thoughts. Mental illness affects everyone differently and your situation may not be reflective of mine.


Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Lent begins...

Today is Ash Wednesday... the beginning of Lent. Well, what is Lent?

The Meaning of Lent by Lynne Chapman, BellaOnline's Christian Living Editor

Many Christians observe Lent, the forty-day period before Easter beginning on Ash Wednesday. Participants are to imitate Jesus, who spent forty days in the desert in prayer and fasting before beginning His public ministry. Observing Lent helps to cultivate the spiritual discipline of making personal sacrifices, reminding us of the importance of spiritual truths over earthly goods.

As we approach Easter, it is fitting that we meditate on the serious subject of the sacrifice that Jesus made to save us from eternal death and separation from God. He willingly and single-mindedly embarked on His mission to teach the truth and to die on the cross as the ultimate and lasting sacrifice for our sins – the sacrifice that God required.

Romans 6:23
This passage tells us that the result of sin is death but the free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ.


His resurrection proved His power over sin and death. Eternal life is the gift that will be given to those who believe and trust in Him.
For some, Lent is a time of fasting and prayer. Many others observe it by giving up a special indulgence, such as candy, soda pop or TV.

This may be a good time to think about the blessings we have and about the frivolous things we tend to hold onto. It may be a good time to give up something we enjoy as a reminder of the true meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice.

But, what does God require of us?
This is what He requires: to do what is right, to love with mercy, and to walk humbly with HIM - everyday, not just during Lent.

How will you answer?

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