A short spoken-word testimony by P.A.T Junior (uploaded by Stephen Scoggins) that reflects on tribulation, using recurring storm and nightmare metaphors and concrete family/societal anecdotes (single parent, unemployment, racial barriers) to illustrate suffering. The piece transitions to a theological reading—comparing suffering to Jesus' passion—and concludes that tribulation builds character and prepares believers for God’s purpose.
Chapters
Tribulation. One of the most complicated topics to discuss in life. These aren't just minor roadblocks to get around. We square up to get knocked down. Then triangles of different perspectives to understand how they shape us, but can't figure it out.
But can explain.
You see, these times are like dark clouds that follow you for miles as you walk in super slow motion. And as it rains down, you become subject to every harsh command for its pleasure. Events during these storms are like nightmares with your eyes wide open. Pride slides over as you walk down Elm street over and over again.
Translation, you try watching your mother struggle as a single parent because your father wanted to run a marathon as a Rolling stone. If you could fight find his hat, that's where you could find his home for a season. Or dealing with some family members with the personality of Harvey Dent after he became a criminal. Or society tells you because of your skin color you won't graduate from high school, you'll barely make it to college. Obtaining your masters, that's a mere daydream. And remember, this is a nightmare. But you make it anyway. Only to get married young and lay it off a few months into your marriage. Sitting at the unemployment office at the young age of 25 thinking what the heck am I doing with my life?
Transition. You see, hard times are gifts from God. You see, my Savior suffered. As the kitchen's heat increased, he became blemished but remained flawless. They called him liar, lunatic, demon, godless. Jesus was beaten to a near pope as he went to the cross where he served himself up as a gift to the world.
So as believers, it's only right that we suffer with him for a little while.
You see, tribulations are the building blocks to our potential well rounded characters continuously shaping us for his purpose.
