Finding Strength in Faith and Resilience: Lessons from Michele Armbrust’s Journey
Life’s unexpected challenges often reveal a strength we never knew we possessed. Michele Armbrust’s story, originally featured in the Diocese of Superior’s Catholic Herald, is a powerful testament to faith, resilience, and the importance of community during times of profound hardship.
The Foundation of Faith: A Childhood Shaped by Community
Michele’s early life was deeply rooted in her Catholic faith, nurtured by her grandmother’s unwavering example. Her grandmother regularly took her and other grandchildren to Mass and then for hot chicken sandwiches, followed by visits to St. Camillus Hospital in Milwaukee where their father worked. These experiences weren’t just about religious observance; they were about connection – to family, to faith, and to a wider community of caregivers and those in need. Exposure to the nuns at the local Catholic school and church further solidified these formative influences.
Navigating Early Challenges: A Mother’s Struggle and a Family’s Support
Michele’s mother faced mental health challenges following an abusive first marriage. Thankfully, a supportive extended family, particularly her grandmother, provided a stable presence during a difficult time. This early experience highlighted the critical role of family and community in navigating life’s complexities and the importance of seeking and accepting facilitate.
A Calling to Service: Nursing, Faith, and Marriage
Michele pursued nursing, a profession seemingly “in her blood,” but also explored a potential religious vocation during her studies at Viterbo University. She found a balance between her calling to care for others and her deepening faith, eventually meeting her husband, Jeff, who also considered the priesthood. Together, they dedicated themselves to their parish, starting a marriage preparation program and actively participating in church ministry.
The Long Wait: A Husband’s Injury and Years of Caregiving
In July 2011, Michele’s life took an unforeseen turn when Jeff suffered a severe brain injury in an accident at home. The details of the accident remain unclear, but the aftermath was a long and arduous journey of caregiving. For eleven years, Michele navigated the complexities of being a wife to a husband whose condition had fundamentally changed. She described this period as “grieving the loss of someone who’s still alive.”
Embracing Humility and Accepting Support
Throughout those challenging years, Michele leaned heavily on her faith, her family, her local priest, and her parish community. She learned the importance of humility, acknowledging her need for help and accepting the support offered by others. “You have to be willing to accept help when you need it,” she shared. “You have to lose your pride and humble yourself to say yes when help is offered.”
Finding Joy in Giving and Focusing on Blessings
Michele discovered that her experience also provided an opportunity for others to experience the joy of giving. She focused on gratitude and actively sought blessings amidst the burdens, recognizing that even in the darkest of times, there is still light to be found. She realized that relying on Christ for joy was paramount, rather than depending on another person.
Continuing to Serve: Community Involvement and a Renewed Purpose
After Jeff’s passing in April 2022, Michele found a sense of relief, having learned to trust in God’s plan and to embrace the present moment. She has since become even more involved in her parish, joined her community’s disability board, and continued her husband’s perform with a local organization. She consistently receives the message to share “good news” through her life – to be grateful and joyful.
The Power of Perspective: “You Don’t Know How Strong You Are…”
Michele’s story underscores a profound truth: strength is often revealed not in the absence of hardship, but in the way we respond to it. As she eloquently stated, “You don’t know how strong you are until being strong is the only thing you can be.”
“You have to live day by day, sometimes moment by moment.”
FAQ
Q: What was the biggest lesson Michele learned during her husband’s illness?
A: The importance of accepting help and allowing others to support you during difficult times.
Q: How did Michele’s faith influence her ability to cope?
A: Her faith provided a foundation of strength, acceptance, and trust in God’s plan.
Q: What advice would Michele give to someone facing a similar challenge?
A: To live day by day, to accept help when offered, and to focus on gratitude and blessings.
Did you know? Studies display that strong social connections and a sense of purpose are key factors in resilience and overall well-being.
Pro Tip: Prioritize self-care, even when it feels impossible. Small acts of kindness towards yourself can make a significant difference.
Michele Armbrust’s journey is a reminder that even in the face of unimaginable loss and hardship, faith, community, and a commitment to finding joy can illuminate the path forward. What resonates most with you from Michele’s story? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
