Debbie Swindell

Sometime back in October, I shared my personal diagnosis of Essential Tremor, a condition that many people may not be familiar with. It’s a neurological disorder often confused with Parkinson’s disease or anxiety. Essential Tremor causes involuntary, rhythmic shaking or trembling in the body, most commonly affecting the hands and forearms. However, it can also impact the head, voice, face, and sometimes the legs. These tremors can make simple tasks, such as writing or using tools, quite challenging. From my experience, the condition typically worsens over time, usually starting small and initially affecting just the hands.

While the tremors can come and go, they become more pronounced with age. This progression has been complex; besides the Essential Tremor, I now experience resting and internal Tremor. Some days are better than others, but I adapt and adjust. I trust that God has used and will continue to use this condition for my good and the good of others. I pray that, despite my awkwardness, His glory may become more evident.

What about ministry? At the November workshop, I intentionally kept my lessons short yet impactful. Currently, I am doing very little in counseling, discipleship, and mentoring, but I believe God is not finished with me in these areas. A new semester of teaching at my church will begin in January. I will continue to lead the study of Ephesians, starting with a review of Chapters One through Three. Additionally, I will host an invitation-only class on the core principles of biblical counseling from my home, beginning January 5th. My mission hasn’t changed; with a few changes and God’s grace, my ministry to women at home and in my church continues.

What about the book? This morning, I revisited my manuscript and realized it needs significant work. The time required for revision and the necessary skill to type accurately will lead to further delays and require a considerable block of time dedicated to that purpose. I am contemplating whether my words should be published as a few copies for family (through a small local publisher) or on a larger scale. However, I don’t feel the need to make that decision because there is still work to be done.

Essential Tremor affects every aspect of my life, from when I wake up and head to the coffee maker, carefully holding my ceramic mug with a lid. The shaking forces me to consider social situations and restaurant menus in advance to avoid unnecessary stress and prevent making others feel uncomfortable when they visit or dine with me. I participate in life as much as I can. We hosted a family Thanksgiving in November, and I will host a dinner next week.

I am grateful for the support of my family, friends, and church community, who come alongside me and pray. I believe God uses many means, and often, His chosen means are the prayers of His people. Let’s focus on our awesome God, who has a plan and purpose that He allows us to be a part of. May He continue to use me as an instrument through His Spirit.

Life is often described as a journey, and for good reason. Each experience, whether joyful or challenging, contributes to our personal growth and understanding of the world around us. As we navigate through the twists and turns, it’s essential to embrace every moment.

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to overlook the small things. Yet, these moments – a shared laugh with a friend, a quiet morning with a cup of coffee, or the beauty of nature – add richness to our experiences. Taking the time to appreciate these elements can foster gratitude, reminding us to live in the present. We can easily find meaning in everyday moments.

Life is not without its struggles. When faced with challenges, it’s crucial to remember that these experiences can teach us valuable lessons. Resilience is not just a word, it’s a muscle that gets stronger with every adversity. Each obstacle can provide growth opportunities. By confronting difficulties head-on and learning from them, we emerge more substantial and capable. With my Lord Jesus Christ, I am an overcomer.

As we journey through life, the connections we make with others shape our experiences. Building and nurturing relationships add depth to our journey, offering support and shared joy. Whether it’s family, friends, or new acquaintances, the bonds we create can help us navigate challenging times and celebrate good times together. These relationships are not just incidental, they are the fabric of our lives, weaving a beautiful tapestry of shared experiences and emotions.

Reflection is a powerful tool. Looking back on our experiences can help us understand how far we’ve come, what we’ve learned, and who we’ve become. At the same time, it’s essential to look ahead with hope. Setting goals and planning for the future gives us direction and motivation as we continue. The past is a teacher, the present is an opportunity, and the future is a canvas waiting for our strokes of hope and determination.

Everyone’s journey through life is unique and filled with varying experiences and lessons. We can navigate through life with grace and purpose by embracing every moment, cherishing our connections, and learning from our challenges. Remember, it’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey and all the beautiful moments along the way.