Your Hearts And Your Minds

Maria Abbe’s interview will be on our first EPIC Podcast Exclusive.

Have you ever felt like God has abandoned you? Like you’re out in the world alone and being jostled around unable to get your footing?

I have. Many times, actually. As Catholics, we fight a good and hard fight to bring peace and light to this fallen world. But despite the pain, the suffering, and the moments of feeling unsure about why we’re here, one thing always remains consistent – God loves us with an everlasting love.

The funny thing is, God doesn’t yell over this noisy world. He speaks softly, kindly, and within our hearts and it takes being still to know and to realize that.

Tell that to a person with high anxiety, and they’ll shudder at the thought of being still. I know, because I’ve suffered through those moments.

Hi – My name is Maria and I’m the mind behind runningmyselftogether.com. I spent many years with an eating disorder, anxiety, and depression, but after a long and hard fight, I found peace. Now, I work to share that peace with you and for me that peace started with running. My website, runningmyselftogether.com, is a safe haven for those who face any type of mental distress. It’s a place of hope, joy, and lots of running as we work through the sometimes tangled messes in our minds.

I’m here to tell you that there is hope. And there is peace. And that you will get through it.

Despite the ups and downs of my life, I have always had a burning love for Jesus and my Catholic faith. I often talk about the benefits of running and physical activity, but we cannot forget that we are human beings with souls. Faith is the food that feeds our souls and maintains a sound mind. And it’s helped me tremendously along my journey of recovery.

Why? Because it puts life into perspective. Whenever I feel a moment of high anxiety or depression, I think of my Creator and I remember this Bible verse, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). He loves us, He cares for us, and He is in control. When I place my worries on Him, I feel relief.

But of course, placing your anxieties on Him is always easier said than done. Staying strong in my faith has helped me through these moments, because it is the rock, the cornerstone, and the unwavering truth. So, even when I feel like I’m falling, I know it’s always there.

I have a strong devotion to Mary and an everlasting love for the Eucharist. Praying novenas and attending Mass regularly give me the armor I need to fight the good fight in this world.

I hope you too can find peace in this life and a deep love for Christ. He loves you and He wants you to be full of joy.

For more inspiration, head on over to runningmyselftogether.com or follow me on social media (@runningmyselftogether) and always keep fighting the good fight!