Letters From Mom, Issue 1

In this blog series entitled "Letters From Mom," different HCA moms share their advice, insight, knowledge, and wisdom for HCA students. The first letter was submitted by Susan A. Skaradek. If you are an HCA mom and would like to have your letter featured in the series, please submit your letter to jhunter@harrellsca.org.

Susan Skaradek

The most important lesson to me in life is to trust in God and lean not on my own understanding. This was driven home over a series of life-lessons. I often repeat to myself, “The joy of the Lord is my strength,” and “in his presence is fullness of joy.” At times when things seem tough, I seek His presence for restoration.

If I could live my life again, I would have given my heart to Jesus much sooner, sparing my loved ones the grief and heartache I have caused them as a result of poor choices and decisions. Ones having the most impact on my life would be my father, cousin Ellie, and friend Donna who never gave up on me. They continually grounded me, turning me back towards God. I used to closely relate to Thomas the doubting disciple until I prayed for the healing of doubt and disbelief. Now I find myself likened to David, who danced before the Lord with unbridled freedom.

The advice that has had the most influence on my life came from my mother before her passing at a young age. She always said, “Love one another, be kind to others, and give a smile to those who don’t have one.” The ingredients for a successful life would be love, patience, integrity, and always forgive.

The way of balancing one’s life is remembering that each breath we breathe, each moment we are given, could be our last. We are not promised tomorrow. By keeping this thought in our minds, our actions, and our words, our direction can’t help but be impacted for the positive.

The first place I turn to for guidance is my prayer closet. I get on my knees, alone with God, the lover of my soul, who knows me better than any other. He knows what I am about to say before a word is ushered from my lips. There are some situations in life that even after prayer, I speak to my father or friend for more wisdom and clarification on the spiritual realm.

My outlook is changed drastically when I turn to father God, knowing full well He wants what is best for me and I trust Him with my life completely. He loves me. He longs for my presence, my friendship, and my love in return. He lovingly echoes a voice that bids me to come unto Him.