Tag: Inspiration

Inspiration

An Unfinished Life – Taken Way Too Soon

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2024 – Rebecca Nietert

When Shari was only six years old, I distinctly remember the first time she attempted to take her own life. Sadly, this was not an isolated incident. I witnessed many moments where she would retreat to the back of a closet, seeking solace from the world or persistently trying to bring an end to her suffering. It breaks my heart to recall these memories because Shari was truly an innocent and delicate little girl with a remarkable sense of humor. If she had ever pursued a career in comedy, she surely would have found immense success.

I believe that witnessing my mother’s frequent fits of rage, where I bore the brunt of her anger, must have profoundly impacted Shari. The full extent of her motivations remained a mystery to us, but as I matured and sought therapy for my own struggles, I gradually realized that Shari’s depression ran deep. She was a young girl who lacked the ability to effectively communicate her fears and inner turmoil. It became apparent that something was gravely wrong, and yet, Shari carried this burden throughout her nineteen years of life, unable to change her desire to put an end to her pain.

Then one evening when Shari was 19 years old…

I received a call that shattered my world, a call filled with rage and despair. It was my sister on the other end, struggling to deliver unthinkable news. My younger sister, Shari, had been taken from us in a cruel twist of fate – a victim of a sudden and tragic car accident. The words pierced through me, but my mind struggled to grasp their meaning. I collapsed to the floor, my body unable to bear the weight of such devastating truth.

Through the blur of tears and confusion, my best friend Linda came to my aid. She lifted me up, guided me into a cab, and together we arrived at the hospital. I stumbled towards her room, my heart pounding in my chest. And there she lay, my sweet Shari, so small and fragile. Her face was marred by bruises, unrecognizable to my bewildered eyes. I wept uncontrollably, my desperate prayers filling the air, begging for a miracle that would never come.

As if to compound the agony, the doctor entered the room, his words forever etched in my soul. He confirmed what I couldn’t bear to accept – she was gone, forever lost to us. The weight of such surreal news crashed upon me, leaving me numb and drained. Tears streamed down my cheeks, the anguish consuming every fiber of my being. And then, as if in a cruel twist of fate, the doctor delivered another blow. My shattered family awaited me in the chapel, ready to discuss the unimaginable – the end of her life.

I leaned over her, planting a tender kiss on her bruised cheek, and whispered the painful truth that hung heavy in the air. After all the struggles, after all the battles she fought within herself, it seemed as though she had finally achieved her wish. The lights of hope dimmed and darkness engulfed us all.

In that devastating moment, my world shattered into a million pieces. Waves of grief and sorrow crashed over me, threatening to drown me in their depths. The pain, oh the pain, felt insurmountable. It was as if a weight had been placed upon my soul, crushing it with an unyielding force. How could I bear this agonizing loss?

Her absence, the absence of Shari, felt like a void that could never be filled. She was so young, just nineteen, yet she had already faced her own battles, her own demons. How many times had I tried to shield her from the pain of our shared upbringing, only to realize that I couldn’t save her from herself? And now, I wouldn’t have the chance anymore. She was gone.

The tears ran dry, leaving me empty, hollow. I stumbled blindly through the darkness, trying to find a sliver of light, a glimpse of hope. But despair enveloped me like a black tunnel, its grip tightening with each passing moment. I collapsed into the arms of the doctor, seeking solace, seeking any semblance of comfort.

Looking back now, I wish I had possessed the knowledge and understanding I have acquired over time. It pains me to think that there may have been ways to support and help Shari if only we had been equipped with the awareness and resources we have today.

The tears may have stopped, but the ache in my soul remained. In this desolate landscape of sorrow, I vowed to find a way to honor Shari’s memory and find solace in the love that still surrounded me.

Reflection

Crash! Shattered World

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2024 – Rebecca Nietert

I was 22. I awoke abruptly, my heart pounding, the taste of fear on my tongue. Confusion flooded my mind as I struggled to comprehend my surroundings. Where was I? What had happened? Panic set in as I surveyed the wreckage around me.

The cab of the truck I had been driving was mangled, an unrecognizable mess of twisted metal. Both the front and back were crushed, leaving me trapped within its confines. With each passing second, my terror intensified, knowing that escape seemed impossible.

I frantically attempted to open the door, my hands shaking with adrenaline. But it refused to budge, as though it was mocking my desperate attempts for freedom. I felt a warm wetness on my back and immediately knew that blood was seeping down, painting a macabre picture of the danger I was in.

My gaze shifted to the shattered back window, a small glimmer of hope in the midst of my terror. Summoning every ounce of strength left within me, I willed my body to maneuver through that narrow opening, the fear and pain pushing me onwards.

As I emerged onto the cold, unforgiving ground, the full extent of the wreckage became apparent. It was clear that someone had recklessly crashed into me from behind, propelling my truck into the brick and mortar store ahead. My mind raced, trying to comprehend the force that had caused this devastation.

The realization struck me like a bolt of lightning. In that moment, I became acutely aware of the life growing within me. I was pregnant. But the impact had taken that precious gift from me, leaving behind a void that seemed to echo with sorrow.

Dread filled my veins as I surveyed the deserted scene. The person responsible for this horror had vanished. I was left alone, injured and terrified, facing an uncertain fate. Time was against me, fading away with each passing moment.

A sudden rush of pain coursed through my body, jolting me back to the cruel reality of my situation. The blood continued its descent, a chilling reminder of the loss and danger that surrounded me. Morning had arrived quietly, indifferent to the nightmare unfolding before me.

And then, as if surrendering to the weight of my fear, my body gave way. Everything faded into darkness, my exhausted mind seeking respite from the terror that had become my existence.

Inspiration

Blazing Inferno – An Epic Testimony

Reba Nietert

Copyright Rebecca Nietert – 2024

I was 16. My mind raced, thoughts swirling in chaotic disarray. The overwhelming heat pressed against my skin, threatening to consume me. In a desperate attempt to escape, I darted into the fiery inferno, my heart pounding in my chest. But the flames were relentless, their scorching touch leaving my face seared, my hair singed. I gasped for air, my lungs craving the cool freshness that was nowhere to be found.

Fear gripped me, tightening its hold with every passing second. Frantically, I changed direction, fleeing back into the kitchen. The room was shrouded in a dense, impenetrable cloud of black smoke. I dropped to the floor, seeking refuge from the inexplicable, suffocating darkness swirling around me.

Crawling on all fours, my hands outstretched, I groped my way towards the door. With trembling fingers, I reached for the knob, only to find it melted beyond recognition. Panic surged through me as the weight of the situation bore down, crushing my spirit. A whispered plea escaped my lips, “We’re going to die.”

Through the haze, my sister’s voice shattered the despair, urging me to keep trying, to find a way out. The acrid black soot coated my throat, a constant reminder of the imminent danger that surrounded us. Yet, in that harrowing moment, something shifted deep within my soul. Instinct took over, transforming me into a creature driven solely by the primal need for survival.

I continued to crawl, relentless in my pursuit of escape. The darkness stifled my senses, but I pressed on, feeling my way through the oppressive blackness. My desperate journey led me to a small mirrored bathroom, its reflective surfaces offering no solace, no guidance. Trapped, I groped futilely, my hands grasping at emptiness.

Amidst the disorienting despair, the sound of my sister’s voice called out to me with desperate urgency. I clung to her words, using them as a lifeline, navigating my way through the door and into the dimly lit hallway. Step by agonizing step, I persevered, finding my way through the labyrinthine layout of our home.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I stumbled into the living room. Relief washed over me, mingled with a lingering sense of dread. The battle was far from over, but for now, I had escaped the clutches of the inferno.

In that moment, I realized the true nature of fear. It had engulfed me, threatened to consume everything I held dear, but I had refused to surrender. As I stood amidst the remnants of destruction, I vowed to carry that unyielding resilience within me, forever unafraid, ready to face any challenge that may lie ahead.

To learn more about me and my journey… keep reading.

Human Interest, Inspiration, Journal Entry, Opinion, Reflection

Witness to the Brooding Storm Within – But Remember Our Worth

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2022 – Rebecca Nietert

I will never comprehend the actions of someone who chooses to take offense without engaging in constructive discussion. Instead, they resort to screaming, blocking, and shutting out any opposing viewpoints. It reminds me of a child throwing a tantrum. In a healthy relationship, conflicts should be resolved with love and understanding. However, when one party refuses to reciprocate that love and understanding, the relationship becomes selfish, one-sided, and ultimately doomed. Some temper tantrums leave irreparable damage. It’s truly disheartening, but sadly, it is the reality we sometimes face.

Recently, I experienced this kind of behavior firsthand. The person in question simply stated, “I spoke my mind,” believing that was the end of it. It did not matter how their words were delivered, the emotions they stirred, or the hurtful things they said in anger. In their mind, they had the right to express their thoughts without being held accountable for their actions. They expected the recipient of their anger to passively agree with everything they believed, and any form of contradiction was unacceptable. When I attempted to explain that their personalization of issues in my life was misguided, the response was immediate – I was blocked and mocked.

It is with a heavy heart that I recount this story. It serves as a reminder of the challenges we face when trying to navigate human relationships. The inability to engage in meaningful dialogue, to empathize with others, and to understand that communication is a two-way street can have devastating consequences. It is my hope that we can all strive to approach conflicts with love and openness, ready to listen and learn from one another. In doing so, we may find the path towards healing and genuine connection.

It’s disheartening to witness how some individuals, despite their professional façade or seemingly loving demeanor, can harbor a brooding storm within. For those of us blessed with the inability to desert, it can be a heavy burden to bear.

Yet, in these moments, it’s crucial to remind ourselves of our own worth. We must remember that our friendships hold value, even when surrounded by individuals whose true nature remains hidden. It’s important to affirm ourselves and refuse to internalize the hateful words that may come our way. We must hold steadfast to our path, always striving to do what is right, regardless of how others may behave.

This is what defines a person of character, especially in times like these. And if the storm persists, if the toxicity becomes unbearable, it is okay to take action. It is okay to light the match and set the bridge ablaze, severing ties that no longer serve our emotional well-being.

Remember, dear reader, you are not alone in your experiences. The world is filled with souls struggling with similar challenges. But it is in recognizing our own worth, staying true to our values, and being unafraid to let go of those who bring us down, that we can find solace.

So, as you traverse the untamed waters of life, hold onto your character. Embrace the sadness that may come, but let it fuel your determination to remain true to yourself. And know that as you set those bridges aflame, you make space for new connections that will bring you warmth, joy, and a sense of peace.

You deserve it.

Inspiration

Worthy of Love, by Jacob Nightingale

Reba Nietert

“We instinctually measure our self-worth based on our perceived value to the tribe that surrounds us, and unfortunately, I am a rocket scientist on a football team.” 

Find your Tribe, and there you will discover your value. Find your willingness, and there you will decide your worth. 

We were all innocent once. A child; vulnerable and uncertain. We struggled to make sense of the world. Nothing was certain except for our undying love and devotion to those we valued. We gave our trust freely to those we loved, without reservation. We would do anything to please them, and give anything to see them happy. There is no greater devotion than the love of a child and every child wants to believe they are loved equally in return. A child is always seeking feedback and reassurance, because they want to know one thing—if they too, are worthy of love. Our body may have grown and our spirit has matured, but that child still wants to know, “am I worthy to be loved?”

Worthiness is measured, not by how much you are loved, or by how much love you have been given. Worthiness is measured by how much love and devotion you are willing to give.

A child is born willing to give ALL their love and devotion; no one is more worthy of love than a child.

Like all children, we’re all pure potential. Our Will is the very essence of our potential and we are free to create ourselves however we choose. Is there a such thing as worthless potential? 

No one is worthless; we are all a work in progress, and our progress, our worth, is based solely on our willingness to learn, grow, and improve.  

While we can measure our “value” based on our past contributions and accomplishments, it’s solely based on another’s appreciation and value for what we gave. However, our worthiness, is only effectively measured by our willingness to give, and whether we did the best we could with what we had.

Are you worthy of being a friend, parent, leader, partner, spouse, doctor, student, artist, author…?

Love is the devotion to creating value, contributing, supporting, actualizing dreams, and nurturing growth, improvement, creation, and connection. If your worthiness is based on your willingness to give love and devotion, you need only to ask, “How much love and devotion am I willing to give?” This is your worthiness.    

Are you worthy of Leading? 

How much are you willing to give those that choose to follow you; to nurture, inspire, guide and support their growth and improvement?

Are you worthy of being a parent?

How much are you willing to give your child love and devotion; to support their development, to offer comfort and safety, and to nurture their growth?

Are you worthy of being a friend or romantic partner?

How much are you willing to give love and devotion to the relationship, to nurture each other’s growth and aspirations? 

Are you worthy of creating success?

How much are you willing to give to reach your objectives?

Are you worthy of love and devotion from another?

How much love and devotion are you willing to give?

While we cannot state another’s worth, we can decide if it’s “worth it” to give. When you give to someone, you are investing a part of yourself to them, and for someone to be worth it, they must be willing to accept and willing to invest. If someone is unwilling to give, how can they be worthy of what we are giving? If they are unwilling to grow and improve or to contribute and nurture growth, how can they be worthy of our support and contribution? If someone is unwilling to give love and devotion, is it worth it to give them ours? We cannot allow ourselves to give to those that are unwilling, and if we are unwilling, we are not worthy of what others are willing to give. 

It’s amazing how this simple shift in perception can change everything; it can break down the chains of self-doubt, worry, and insecurity. You don’t need to ask whether someone else finds you worthy. You can measure your own worthiness and the worthiness of those you keep in your life. If you are willing to give love, you’re worthy to be loved, and you are worth every ounce of love you have in your heart. That small child can find peace and comfort, knowing that no matter how much they were cast aside, forgotten, or unfairly challenged, they always have been and always will be “worthy of love.”

Human Interest

The Power of Words – Can Affirm or Destroy

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2020 – Rebecca Nietert

Most people who truly know me understand that I have evolved past idle gossip and unproductive banter. Transparency is something I value greatly, even if it means being more open than society deems necessary.

Throughout my personal journey of self-actualization, I have learned to embrace both the positive and negative aspects of human behavior. However, what challenges me is when individuals refuse to acknowledge their emotional reactions to situations that don’t warrant them. It’s disheartening when they cannot take responsibility for their prideful or conflict-causing behavior.

To protect my well-being, I find it necessary to distance myself from such individuals and relegate them to the realm of acquaintances. By doing so, I safeguard myself from unnecessary conflict. Life is already filled with chaos due to natural occurrences, and I have no desire to introduce any further turmoil.

I have always believed in the power of words. Just because someone utters words doesn’t automatically make them true. Similarly, the mere act of speaking words doesn’t guarantee their validity.

One’s true character lies in the kindness and intention behind their words. We all fall prey to moments of selfishness, pride, and intolerance – a flaw inherent within us.

Words hold immense power. As you navigate the challenges of life, whether it’s an infuriating near-miss in traffic, a berating boss, or a backstabbing colleague, how you respond speaks volumes about your outlook. Personally, I strive to safeguard the peace I’ve earned, becoming less tolerant of the unnecessary drama reminiscent of high school antics.

Remember, our words shape our reality. Let empathy and compassion guide your choices, ensuring that every utterance contributes to a more harmonious existence for all.

amwriting, Inspiration

Over Worrying – A Faithless Journey

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2020 – Rebecca Nietert

In the midst of life’s chaotic whirlwind, it’s so easy to forget the one thing that brings us solace and clarity: blogging. We get caught up in the hustle and bustle, trudging through each day without truly acknowledging our emotions and the moments that shape our existence. It’s high time we reserve a precious minute to reflect on the season we find ourselves in.

For me, changes have been abundant. My son recently joined the army, my daughter embarked on a new job, and my husband and I purchased a new house. Amidst all this, my gifted child struggled in school, my middle child neglected homework, and my youngest seemed to lose her sense of purpose. I can’t begin to describe the stressors and emotional turmoil that come with these challenges in a simple blog.

My emotions have become an unpredictable rollercoaster, skyrocketing to new heights and plummeting to unexpected depths. I find myself on the verge of tears at times, unable to control the triggers that surround me. It’s overwhelming.

But here’s the thing: I refuse to let these circumstances define me. I refuse to let the chaos consume my spirit. And I refuse to let my emotions hold me hostage. It’s time to regain control, to find my voice amidst the turmoil, and to share my journey with others who may be facing their own battles.

Listen up, my friends. In this crazy rollercoaster we call life, it’s important to remember one thing: everything is going to be alright. Trust me, I’ve seen it time and time again. The struggles we face today? Just a blimp on the radar of our 80+ year journey.

Now, let’s talk about choices. We all have the power to shape our story. We can choose to wallow in negativity, be selfish, and let anger and sadness consume us. Or, we can choose a different path. A path of kindness, tolerance, acceptance, and unconditional love.

Believe me, I get it. It’s not always easy. Sometimes, it feels like an uphill battle just to get there. But here’s the secret: it’s all about focus. Stay driven. Stay determined. Give your worries to a higher power and hope for the best. Today, I made the decision to do just that.

And I invite you to join me. Let’s shed the burdens that weigh us down, let’s put our trust in something bigger. Let’s find closure, break bread, and share a drink. Because in the grand scheme of things, we are all in this together.

Remember, my friends: this too shall pass. Keep your eyes on the horizon, and have faith that brighter days await us. The choice is yours. Let’s embrace it.

amwriting

You’re Invited-DFW 2019 Author Gala

Reba Nietert

On September 27, 2019, we will be hosting the largest Author gala where all literary professionals come together for one social event. The idea is to encourage, inspire, and lift up a fellow author by sharing his or her work. In turn, they will share yours.

Our mission is to be the number one resource for authors in DFW.  Our platform is designed to provide authors with connections to contractors such as:

  • Illustrators
  • Editors
  • Cover Designers
  • Formatters
  • Coaches
  • Publishers
  • Agents
  • and all literary professionals.

Our goal is to connect professionals with the authors who need them. In addition to networking, we have designed fun, intellectual gatherings for like-minded individuals in social typesetting to interact, share, support and encourage.  We will host a variety of events including networking, “tea-time,” one on one meetings to face challenges head-on, instruction, and all kinds of support.  Our annual Writer’s Retreat is not to be missed. Please feel free to check our online calendar to see the upcoming events, and if at any time you would like to participate in the festivities please subscribe to our email and consider becoming a founding member.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/networking-with-the-author-gala-tickets-70017970635

amwriting, books, Human Interest, Inspiration, Opinion, politics, Reflection, Revelations

An Army Family Now – Proud & Scared

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2019 – Rebecca Nietert

The day I witnessed my 24-year-old son make the selfless decision to join the Army, it was a bittersweet moment. As I saw him willingly trade his fully successful and independent life for the service of our U.S. Government, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride mixed with sadness. The pride in his eyes mirrored my own, but the weight of his sacrifice brought tears to my eyes that seemed to last for days.

Today, however, I find myself rekindled with a newfound purpose in my own life. Thoughts of my son and our last conversations linger in my mind. I replay every word he spoke to me, trying to understand the reasons behind his choice to enlist in the Army.

To some, I may come across as ungrateful or lacking in appreciation for his decision. But let me assure you, I am immensely proud that my son would willingly surrender his own freedom for the sake of protecting ours. Such a choice in itself is incredibly honorable.

Yet, I can’t deny that I am plagued with a mixture of pensiveness, apprehension, and fear. It stems from the understanding that not every young man who enters the Army returns home unscathed. Perhaps it’s the things I have witnessed and the experiences that have befallen me, experiences that many people haven’t had the misfortune of encountering.

But in the midst of my concerns, I have faith in the well-oiled machinery of the military, and the countless brave men and women who have selflessly served before my son. They have all contributed to the safety and security of our nation, and I believe my son will join their ranks.

Though my heart aches with worry, I know that he enters this noble profession with the utmost dedication and a mind ready for the challenges ahead. I trust that he will be equipped with the training, support, and camaraderie necessary to face any adversity that may lie in his path. And though there will undoubtedly be difficult moments, I am hopeful that the positive impact he will make and the growth he will experience will far outweigh the struggles.

So, as a proud parent, I stand behind my son’s decision to serve, and I am grateful for every individual who chooses to defend our freedoms. This is a calling that requires tremendous courage, commitment, and sacrifice. It’s a choice that not everyone is willing or able to make.

To all the brave individuals who have willingly entered the military, to those who have served before, and to those who continue to serve today, we owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude. It is because of their unwavering dedication that we can enjoy the liberties we hold dear.

While my heart may remain heavy with worry, I have faith in the resilience and strength of our armed forces. They are the guardians of our nation, the protectors of our way of life. And I am proud to be the parent of a soldier who has answered the honorable call to serve.

Human Interest

Amidst the Troubles – Remember You’re Not Alone

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2019 – Rebecca Nietert

Late at night, worry consumes my thoughts. There’s a never-ending list of concerns: my son joining the Army, my kids’ relationships, bills piling up, commitments, navigating interpersonal dynamics – the weight of it all feels overwhelming. And to top it off, there’s a myriad of stressors like cultivating relationships, maintaining a marriage, caring for ailing family members and animals. It’s no wonder I’m wide awake, with worries racing through my mind.

But amidst all these troubles, an even more pressing question begs for an answer: why do certain individuals within a company intentionally hurt others for selfish reasons? What motivates them to cause harm while hiding behind others to achieve their goals? And why do they act surprised when their actions yield negative consequences? My son suggests that it’s a lack of empathy, a “disconnect” with people, a failure to learn compassion.

Today, I received a dreadful email that shook me to my core. I made sure to fully absorb the weight of this person’s attempt to bully me into compliance, merely for posting a less-than-favorable review. Yet, astonishingly, his company continues to contact me! They resort to threats, inadvertently proving just how remarkably inept they truly are.

It’s time to take a stand against these injustices. No one should live in fear of unfair treatment or manipulative tactics. Let’s unite against those who perpetuate harm, and advocate for a world where empathy and compassion prevail. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that kindness triumphs over cruelty.

Remember, you are not alone in your struggles. Reach out for support, share your story, and let the world see that we refuse to be silenced. Together, we can create a future where empathy shines brightly and harmful intentions are utterly powerless. Stand strong, and let your voice be heard.