I received a text from a friend with a photo and caption, “This is so not reality!” Noting that what appears in the picture is not anything like what was experienced at that moment. Creating an image on social media of what we want people to perceive, not always portraying the total experience as it plays out. It is hard not to buy into the images of everyone else’s life being so picture-perfect. But often that is what we get, picture-perfect, but not necessarily reality. All these perfect pictures drive our insecurities and tend to bring on…
Totality, what a breathtaking experience to see the total eclipse. From those who were able to experience it live, people described it as being so peaceful. I agree, as darkness moved in nature became silent and allowed all those participating to experience the stillness. Many of us experienced a beautiful glow at the base of the horizon, adding to the spectacular event. I couldn’t help but see similarities in totality and how we lead our lives as believers. Similar to the peace people experienced during the 4 minutes of totality, giving control to Jesus opens the door to living…
There are times when it is difficult to remember to stay out of the path of jealousy. Looking at those around us thinking, “If only that were me or if only I had that opportunity.” I quickly move to prayer and center my mind on my intended path, knowing that if I stay the course my path will be far better than I could have imagined. Each time I move in my intended direction my inner peace strengthens. It is that inner peace that helps me understand how important it is that I walk my path. If I begin to…
In this world filled with opportunity sometimes we miss all the joy that is around us. Chaos clutters our minds and we are overcome with stress and anxiety. But we do have the choice to see the good and to be grateful for all the little things that make life worth living. The text that says, “I love you.” Retrieving the newspaper, trash can, or mail on the way to the house. The call from a neighbor or friend checking in to say, “Hello.” The sun shining brightly on a beautiful afternoon. The car starting up on a chilly winter…
As I move through life I have an opportunity to be both an influencer and/or to be influenced. If I allow myself to be influenced, it will inevitably happen. Technology is amazing in so many ways, but we have to be careful that we understand when we are being influenced. Options are endless for AI, but do we fully understand the ramifications of what we think we are viewing? Are we able to use technology for the good and at the same time understand when we are being influenced? The key to this is keeping a clear perspective. Understand…
Six years ago, I don’t think anybody would’ve known that I was standing strong as a faith-filled follower of Jesus. Throughout my life, some people encouraged me to dig deeper into The Bible, church, and Christianity. I knew that I was a woman of faith; however, I chose to show my faith by leading by example. Currently, 322 blogs later, my life has completely been disclosed. I am an open book and a friend of Jesus. It was clear to me that I was to write this blog. Knowing if I were truly serving Jesus it was…
Being a good neighbor is a deep statement. On the surface, it is easy to wave from afar, but it is much more complicated to love your neighbor as yourself. It warms my heart when I see someone moving out of their comfort zone with compassion. In this context, the word neighbor includes everyone, every day. Being nice should be easy, right? It becomes a challenge when things don’t go as planned. Stress starts to take over and life becomes chaotic. Being a good neighbor becomes more difficult because we are not at peace. Because we don’t have…
One of the things that we are asked to do is love others, even more than we love ourselves. Love comes from within and is a powerful tool when used unconditionally. The importance of coming from a perspective of love can’t be underestimated. Jesus can’t resist those who have love in their heart. No matter your religion, if you live life with love and your intentions are genuine Jesus is there for us. There is no reason to make things complicated. No reason to be scared of our future if we are living life with true love. Bad…
Some people appear to enjoy and thrive living in an environment of chaos, but that is not how I choose to live. I believe if one puts forth the effort, one is able to change the way in which life is lived. Some things can be altered that don’t have any monetary requirement, simply a desire to do things differently. Given all the options in the world, do you choose peace? If so, what would you be willing to do to be at peace while walking through life? I stop and breathe. With my eyes, I evaluate what is…
I feel I am in a constant state of refinement. Praying to be shown all the events in my life for which I need forgiveness. A work in progress striving to live my life with love and inner peace. Often my life is replayed in front of me. I’ll see signs of things that I should’ve done differently. Through prayer, I ask to be shown what it is I need to refine, improve, and concentrate on regarding my faith, love, and service to Jesus. With patience, I am shown specific situations where I have done something that was…