Like the Mary Ellen Carter, Rise Again

In recent days, I’ve been reflecting on the trials of a dear friend who is navigating the rough waters of a particularly challenging divorce. Her soon-to-be ex-husband’s inconsiderate behavior and lack of support have left her feeling overwhelmed and disheartened. This situation, where he acts without regard for the consequences and the impact on her and their children, has been a relentless source of stress and sadness.

As I ponder her struggles, I find solace and inspiration in the music of one of my favorite folk singers, Stan Rogers. Rogers, a Canadian folk icon, had an extraordinary ability to capture the human experience in his songs, often focusing on themes of the sea, love, and resilience. His untimely death left a void in the world of folk music, but his legacy lives on through the powerful stories he told.

One song, in particular, has been echoing in my mind: “The Mary Ellen Carter.” (Here’s a link) This song tells the story of a shipwreck and the determination of the crew to raise the sunken vessel despite the overwhelming odds. The chorus rings with a message of hope and resilience:

Rise again, rise again, though your heart it be broken Or life about to end. No matter what you’ve lost, be it a home, a love, a friend, Like the Mary Ellen Carter, rise again.

This powerful refrain serves as a reminder that no matter how dire the circumstances, there is always the potential for recovery and renewal. The story of the Mary Ellen Carter is one of defiance in the face of despair, and it speaks directly to the situation my friend is enduring.

Divorce can feel like a shipwreck, leaving one stranded and unsure of how to proceed. The emotional toll can be immense, especially when dealing with a partner who seems oblivious to the pain they are causing. However, like the crew in Rogers’ song, my friend is showing remarkable resilience. She is slowly but surely finding her strength, piece by piece, day by day.

It’s not just about surviving but about reclaiming her life and rebuilding it, even stronger than before. Each step she takes is an act of defiance against the waves of despair that threaten to engulf her. It’s about recognizing her worth and the importance of her well-being and that of her children.

As I continue to support her, I am reminded of the importance of being present and offering a listening ear. Sometimes, the best way to help someone rise again is simply to be there, to acknowledge their pain, and to remind them of their strength.

From a Christian perspective, this journey of rising above adversity takes on an even deeper significance. I recently came across a powerful statement that resonated deeply with me:

“Once again, it’s no sin to be a victim of trauma. There is no sin in suffering. Our Lord willingly suffered weakness and became a victim. Was He thus a sinner? But you must rise as He! Enough of this tomb!”

This profound message reminds us that suffering and trauma are not signs of weakness or sin. Christ Himself experienced profound suffering and became a victim of immense injustice. Yet, His suffering was not a mark of sin but a path to resurrection and victory.

For my friend, and for anyone else facing similar trials, this is a powerful reminder. Just as Christ rose from the tomb, we too are called to rise from our own tombs of despair and pain. There is no shame in suffering; the true test lies in our ability to rise again, to find hope and renewal even in the darkest of times.

So, to my friend and to all who are struggling, I say this: Rise again, no matter what you’ve lost, and let the strength within you guide you to brighter days ahead. Embrace the resilience that lies within, draw inspiration from the lives of the saints, the teachings of Christ, and the timeless messages found in songs like “The Mary Ellen Carter.”

Stan Rogers’ music has a timeless quality that speaks to the core of human experience. His songs remind us that, no matter how rough the seas, there is always hope for a new dawn. In the same way, our faith teaches us that no matter the suffering, we can rise with Christ and find new life.

So, rise again, find your strength, and let the journey of recovery and renewal begin.

-Orthodox Trucker