If you had told me years ago that I would be embarking on my 8th year of writing a faith-based blog, toliveforsomethinggreater.com, I think I would have smiled and said to myself, “That’s crazy! “  My faith was very private, and my writing skills were deplorable.  Despite the reality of the situation, I would not have said impossible because I have had true faith for as long as I can remember. My faith allows me to think beyond the impossible.  This thinking has opened up doors numerous times in my life to things that I would…

One of the most valuable questions I have learned to ask myself before I respond to a situation is, how can I be helpful?  When I start from this perspective I am able to address any issue with compassion.   That doesn’t mean that I get involved in all interactions.   Sometimes the most compassionate thing I can do is pray and walk away.  Silent prayers asking Jesus to guide the person or situation.   Not contributing to frustration, anger, fighting or dangerous situations might be the best decision.  Being helpful might require suggesting support for someone or maybe lending a listening…

Many years ago, I discovered just how wrong I could be when judging a gift.  It was a gift for one of my children, and I felt it was unnecessary.  To be honest, I didn’t want it cluttering up the house.  At the time, we didn’t have a basement or extra storage.  I remember this item being on the gift list at least three times, which means a birthday, Christmas, and yet another birthday without being purchased. The item, a snow cone machine, finally made it under the tree two years after the original request.  I had seen…

My goal this year was to gain better focus. During this beautiful, busy chaotic time of year, I find myself easily distracted by everything happening around me.  My mind moves in every direction not to miss any excitement around the season. Instead of punishing myself for lack of focus, I apply focus to each distraction.  Each time my mind wanders I ask myself why I am thinking about this particular issue.   No matter how small or large the issue, I pray for clarity and opportunity to move forward.  I give thanks to Jesus for a solution before a solution is…