Photo of Saundra provided by Saundra Taulbee
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Dr
Saundra J. Taulbee continued our interview.
She
talked about healing, “Initially the support that opened my path to recovery
was purely internal. I took a psychology class when I went back to school as a
single parent, and was turned on by discovering what was inside me, e.g. what
made me tick. At the same time, I felt a call to help people, but realized I
could never help anybody unless I experienced healing. As I continued my own
studies and moved into graduate school support came as I was required along
with my cohort to have weekly analytic sessions during my five years of
doctoral study, as detailed in my book. So, weekly analysis along with my venturing
into exploring 12-step recovery, experiencing another failed marriage (which
helped me begin to put some pieces together), and coming to faith in Christ –
is what opened up my path to recovery.”
Saundra described her experience
writing, “My writing/publishing endeavor began as a heartfelt impulse that
surged inwardly and germinated over a 25-year journey of brokenness and
overcoming. During this 25-year period I journaled as part of my prayer time
with God, and I added to my journal - notes, illustrations, quotes, etc. that
struck me. This became the seedbed for what became themes for what I now
recognize is 3 or more different books. The first of them, You Can’t Heal A Wound By Saying It’s Not There, I began writing in
the late fall of 2010, and completed my manuscript 9 months later. It took me 3
more months for the final editing and revision corrections with my publisher.
My book is now available in hardcover, soft-cover and E-book at: www.amazon.com; www.BarnesandNoble.com; and www.Authorhouse (my publisher).”
She explained the link between
science and spirituality considering her experience both as a psychologist and
pastor.
In her words,
· “Science
and spirituality fit together in my world as a pastor and doctor of mental
health because: people suffer with issues that overlap in the realm of the mind
(the dianoia, Greek,literally - the
understanding) and soul – the psuche
(as it is in Greek) or the psyche (in English) - where mental disorders take
root (whether it’s stress, addiction, anxiety, or something major like bipolar
disorder), requiring treatment with prescription drugs.
· Along
with that, spiritual struggles of the heart (the lebawb in Hebrew, and kardia
in Greek) typically go hand in hand, so that an individual begins to question
what makes them happy (a euphemism for the God-vacuum/one’s search for God), or
wonders about an afterlife, etc. I view issues of the psuche (science) and issues of the heart (spirituality) - as two
sides of the same coin, so to speak.
· Moreover,
it has been my experience that people carry baggage or wounds from the past,
albeit ever so subtle, that interfere with their ability to prosper in adulthood
and prevent them from knowing or experience life with God. Thus, my role has
been (and still is) to serve as a portal in partnering with people to help them
discern what is out of order spiritually and psychologically so that they may
walk in freedom.”
Her advice to anyone suffering, “This would depend on what the issue is, but generally
I’d say, My heart aches when I see people suffer. But, your life matters to God
and He has a plan for your life. No matter what mistakes, bad choices,
addictions, failed marriages, lifestyle choices, or abuse you may have
suffered, in time, God turns our suffering around so that we are able to
encourage somebody else one day! Even if you say, ‘But you don’t know about my
life,’ I say, it does not matter. God loves you unconditionally! And, you don’t
have to suffer alone. We are here at Connections Community Church to pray with
you, and to walk alongside you on your journey. Give us call or email us.”
Saundra’s closing words, “Because of
my dual background in psychology and theology we recently kicked off (June 6th,
2012, 10 pm to 12 midnight, scheduled date and time), as part of our church
plant outreach, a weekly 2 hour You-Stream show where listeners can email
questions in advance, and we will answer them on the air. We want to welcome
people to ask questions about the faith or raise doubts, and tell their stories
- without judgment.”
Dr. Saundra J. Taulbee contact
information:
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