Thomas was a 22-year-old Hispanic-American male born and raised in New York. He entered the room and sat on the edge of the most comfortable seat in the space. He explained that it was his first time seeking a therapist. I noticed his breathing seemed a bit heavy and his leg was shaking.

One of the steps of being a Hard as Nails missionary is FFS (Formation, Follow-Up, and Service). Just like all four of the other steps, it is essential to being a missionary.

Let me be clear: Divorce was never, ever an option for my husband and me, nor was it even in our lexicon. But there was a time in our marriage when tensions were high, feelings of affection were low, and things had generally broken down. Communication was terrible, and we had ceased assuming the good intent of the other. For my part, I had lost respect for my husband, whom I felt was not "a real man" (gosh, it's hard to type those words!).

I had to come to an understanding that I couldn’t overcome this alone. I needed Jesus so badly. I came to him with all my struggles. I’d always pray to God to free me. He knew I was weak. I could never have done it without him.

I suffer from both depression and an anxiety disorder. When I was diagnosed with these illnesses, I felt a self-imposed pressure that begged some serious questions: If I am a woman of faith, how can I be so anxious? How can I be depressed? If I truly trust the Lord, how can I feel this way?

By the grace of God I was never successful; but for 132 Americans each day these thoughts overtake them and they succeed at one of the greatest tragedies known to man: suicide

What if there is life after this short time we have on earth? What if Heaven exists? Will you be ready? You see, if you chase after things on this earth you will fail! You will never be successful enough, good enough, popular enough, or attractive enough because there’s always going to be someone with more advantages than you.

As I swerved, I saw flashing lights on behind me. I hit the brakes... and my car stopped. I don’t remember unlocking the doors, but the cop was able to open the door. I had already been crying, and just sobbed even harder. I couldn’t believe he had stopped me. He looked me in my eyes and asked if I was okay. I just kept crying.

During my Freshman year of high school, I experienced a big loss in my life. Someone really close to me passed away, and it made me feel very alone. I didn’t understand why they were gone.