Life Lessons:
Nancy Virden
*Are you happy at the moment?
Yes, for the first time I know how real joy feels.
*If you could go back and say anything to your 16-year-old self now – what would it be?
Do not be so rushed to find love that you settle. Hold yourself in high regard and people around you will either respect you or leave. Gladly let the ones who would choose to leave do so.
*What’s the most important thing you’ve learned this year?
Focusing on God’s love and will removes any need for the superficial, and gives life passion and purpose.
*What do you most want to achieve in the next 12 months?
A ten-fold increase in opportunities to share my story of hope with people who are struggling.
*What’s your secret to happiness?
(1) Recognizing I am worthy of happiness (2) Focusing on the eternal (3) Choosing joy
*What one ritual or practice keeps you grounded?
Accepting responsibility and making amends to people I have hurt.
*What’s your biggest regret?
I’d like to go back and redo raising my sons without the hindrance of depression.
*What’s the most important lesson you’ve taught your kid(s)?
Run to watch a squirrel play; stop everything to enjoy a rainbow; play in the rain and celebrate a year’s first snow. Enjoy the gifts; worship the Giver.
*What bad habit would you most like to change about yourself?
I’m terrible at disciplining myself to get enough sleep each night.
*Aside from motherhood/fatherhood and marriage what are you most proud of in your life?
I am proud of the hard work that has gone into changing how I do life.
*When were you happiest?
Now is the happiest time. I’ve freed myself from what held me back. 53 is the new 20!
*What ten words best describe you?
Faith, fighter, late-bloomer, artsy, literal, curious, hesitant, insightful, open, and growing
Nancy Virden has overcome some of life’s biggest challenges in her battle against major depression and attempted suicide. The author of three books (Called to Live; Always the Fight; and the fictionalized They Were Real), Nancy travels to share her story of hope with addicts, people who struggle with depression, and supports of hurting loved ones. Her blog reaches out to any who want to know hope, understand how to be supportive, or learn about depression and suicide from one who has been there. In radio interviews she openly answers revealing questions.
