Excerpt
God is Bigger (An Excerpt of The Saints Who Saved Me by John Katz)
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope.”
–Jeremiah 29:11 OT
On my left wrist are two distinct bracelets. One features a quote from Jeremiah, and the other is a wristband inscribed with “God is Bigger.” These items serve as daily reminders for me. While some interpret the referenced Bible verse from Jeremiah primarily in terms of financial prosperity, my experiences suggest that healing encompasses more than just monetary matters.
While writing this, I considered the significance of the title. This narrative addresses facing significant life challenges, illustrating that circumstances are not always better elsewhere. Both positive and negative life events can contribute to personal well-being.
This account is not intended as an autobiography or a detailed retelling of specific events. The idea for the title “The Saints Who Saved Me” originated approximately seven years ago during a men’s retreat with The King’s Men, an organization focused on Christian values and recovery. At that time, I was managing family-related issues and am also identified as a survivor of sexual abuse.
Initially, I contemplated writing about notable saints and influential cultural figures. Over time, I found support from both canonized saints and individuals in daily life who contributed to my management of PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).
I am referring to the police officer who helped me, the visually impaired individual I encountered on the bus, the friend I contacted during a difficult time at 3 a.m., and many others whose names I may not recall. Further discussion of these experiences will follow.
The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) serves as an essential resource diagnosis standard for mental health professionals in the United States. It defines and explains various mental health and neurological conditions.
It describes post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a mental health condition that may arise after someone experiences a traumatic event, such as actual or threatened death, significant injury, or sexual violence. For a diagnosis, symptoms need to last longer than one month and significantly affect daily life or cause considerable distress… Read More.