I know how discouraging it can feel when old wounds resurface. When you thought you were past something and suddenly find yourself emotional over it again. But healing is rarely as linear as we want it to be. Sometimes growth looks like realizing you no longer abandon yourself inside the pain. Sometimes it looks like noticing how much gentler you’ve become with your own heart.

I’m proud of you for continuing anyway. For staying soft. For trying again after everything life has taken out of you. That matters more than you know.

Remind her that healing is happening. Slowly, and in ways she cannot fully measure yet.

– Jacqueline Whitney

Angel: She’s frustrated with herself again.

God: Why?

Angel: She thinks she should be “further along” by now. She keeps criticizing herself for still struggling with things she thought she already healed from.

God: Healing is not a straight line. Humans want transformation to happen cleanly and quickly, but most healing happens in layers.

Angel: She feels discouraged every time old wounds resurface.

God: But resurfacing is not regression. Sometimes pain rises back up because it is finally safe enough to be fully processed instead of merely survived through.

Angel: She keeps apologizing for how emotional she still gets.

God: Because she mistakes sensitivity for weakness. She does not yet realize how much strength it takes to remain soft after life has hurt you deeply.

Angel: Is she healing more than she realizes?

God: Far more. She no longer abandons herself as quickly. She notices red flags sooner. She speaks to herself more gently. Even her exhaustion now comes with awareness instead of shame.

Angel: So what do we tell her?

God: Remind her that healing is happening. Slowly, and in ways she cannot fully measure yet. Remind her that we are here, holding her hand, every step of the way, and we will continue to do so, no matter what.

Jacqueline Whitney is the author Held: A 50 Day Devotional For Parents and All That You Deserve.