Rainy Day People

“Rainy day people always seem to know when it’s time to call

Rainy day people don’t talk, they just listen till they’ve heard it all

Rainy day lovers don’t lie when they tell ‘ya they’ve been down like you

Rainy day people don’t mind if you’re cryin’ a tear or two”

– Gordon Lightfoot, 1975

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I’ve discovered that good counsel invariably comes from a good person.  But its more then that, not everyone can do it.  At one time I thought any mature Christian believer had a right to give guidance, but was really burned.  I had to learn there was wisdom, and there was counseling. I desperately needed their wisdom, but I don’t need their counsel. Dictionary.com defines counsel as “advice; opinion or instruction given in directing the judgment or conduct of another.”

Proverbs tells us that giving good advice is as rare as gold or silver.  I have met so many people who have an opinion about my problems, but few want to listen.  And listening skills are what my counselors need.  Job’s friends were the best counselors when they sat quietly in the ashes with him. They were sterling silver until…well, you know.

I need to unload my issues.  I need someone who has been profoundly depressed and finally stumbled into the light.  Its not that I don’t love certain believers, but they haven’t been “checked out” on this particular problem.  It’s like flying a plane, or operating heavy equipment.  If they haven’t suffered, then leave me alone–but, do pray for me.

I read this somewhere, “Unless you have been lost in this particular section of hell– just shut up.”  I don’t want to be rude, or ungrateful, but I really need someone who has visited hell on occasion.  People who have been damaged by life know what I mean.

I place a premium on the counsel of a few dear friends, even though I have thousands of Christian relationships.  I don’t diminish those relationships, but I do know that certain people are not tested on certain problems.  This maybe simplistic, or a little harsh.  When I had a brain tumor, I wanted a brain surgeon, not my car mechanic.

If you’re reading this, and you have a mental illness issue that is bringing some ‘fair-to-middling’ storm surge, you need to reach out.  Realize, that 1 in 100 [more or less] are qualified to deal with this illness.  Ask the Holy Spirit for his help in this.  He is the Comforter and the Wonderful Counselor.  He will direct you, and help you.

“Rainy day lovers don’t hide love inside they just pass it on
 Rainy day lovers don’t hide love inside they just pass it on”