Despite advances in psychology and medicine, mental illness still carries a negative connotation among some groups. This includes some Christian communities, where mental illness is looked upon as taboo. Because of this, many Christians remain silent as they secretly battle such feelings as anxiety, depression, and compulsion. Sadly, this can mean not having their most important support system when needed. Turning A Blind I is author Esther Jones's story of how she battled obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which was undiagnosed for many years. In the meantime, Jones's life revolved around constant worry, fear, and compulsion, keeping her a prisoner in her own mind. Then one summer, God brought her down to the depths of mental anguish, as she struggled for sanity and peace with her salvation. Jones was so lost; all she could do was cry out to Jesus. Jesus openly accepts all who will come to Him, and Christians should follow His example. Turning A Blind I tells the story of how one person with OCD--a disease deserving the same respect, support, and compassion as any other illness--came to allow God to make her do His will and not her own. As a result, He brought her the spiritual gift of mercy, accompanied by a God-given testimony, to help other Christians realize that even mental illness is allowed by God, used by God, and those who live it are still made in His image.
