Written by: Abbriel Jones – Guest Contributor who has been watching the work of 1N5 for the past few years. She is a devout Christian who prioritizes self-care setting boundaries and mental health.
So many of us are fighting silent battles, the kinds of struggles we hide from the world. These are the burdens that keep us up at night, the ones we don’t talk about because we think no one would understand. Sometimes, we carry them alone for so long that even the smallest setback feels like it could make everything fall apart. And I think it’s powerful—and a little sad—that so many of us are facing these struggles, side by side, yet feeling completely alone.
Not too long ago, I found myself in one of these dark places. Life felt like it was moving too fast like I was just one step away from falling behind entirely. Inside, I was drowning silently. And, for a while, it felt like there was no way out, no light at the end of the tunnel. Have you ever felt that way?
I know people often say, “It gets better with time.” But what helped me wasn’t just time—it was a deeper connection with God. In my darkest moments, I remembered that I knew the Creator of light. I didn’t have to walk alone. And it wasn’t about putting on a brave face or having it all together. I could show up as the real me—raw, hurting, and imperfect—and just let Him in.
The real shift happened when I let God see the raw version of me. Not the “put-together” version, but the one crying in the dark, unsure, imperfect. I realized that I could be my true, unfiltered self before Him. And that’s when things began to change. I invited Him into my mess and let Him sit with me in those difficult moments. It wasn’t about an instant fix. But I felt that I didn’t have to carry this alone because God was ready to shoulder my burdens.
This isn’t about quick fixes or guarantees that things will instantly improve. Healing takes time, and sometimes it’s messy. But if you’re fighting a silent battle, I want you to know that you’re not alone. There are people who care and communities that will support you, if you’re willing to reach out. And if you’re open to it, there’s a God who sees you, who values you even in your hardest, most hidden moments.
In my own healing, I started a Bible reading plan, and one verse that really encouraged me was Matthew 10:29-31: “Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will… Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” For me, that meant knowing I was seen and valued even in my darkest moments. If a God who cares enough to know the hairs on my head could hold me, I believed I wouldn’t be left to face this alone.
So, I invite you, wherever you are in your own journey, to reach out. Try something new, whether it’s prayer, talking to someone, or joining a supportive community. Silent battles don’t have to stay silent, and they don’t have to be fought alone. I hope you find strength, peace, and the courage to let others in, wherever you are on your journey. You were made for more, and there’s more life ahead.