It is not easy for me to open myself up to the world. I am a private person who enjoys being in the background listening to all that is going on around me. For as long as I can remember my faith has been strong and my concern for others deep. Before I understood faith, I thanked God for the good and for carrying me through the tough times. Even when I didn’t realize it, my faith has always been my first priority. I believed without a doubt and yet had very little knowledge regarding Jesus. I felt God…
I have always been one to think in terms of the glass half full. That does not mean that I have been happy with everything in my life, but it does mean that I seek out a positive perspective. We all have varying degrees of physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Life is not fair, but we do have a choice as to how we respond to those challenges. Sometimes we have to reach deep within ourselves to find something positive. A major accomplishment might be having the energy or ability to get up in the morning. Getting up to start…
The first thing I remind myself of is that my direction will become clear to me in God’s time. I have been very driven all my life to meet or exceed the goals placed on my path. I also understand that I need to be patient as I experience and learn all that I need to know to carry out God’s plan. My faith is strong. I don’t waiver in knowing that Jesus has my back and will see me through all obstacles placed in my path. I know that I am going to have many things…
Earlier this month I was watching ABC World News, and I got hooked by the teaser, “Later this evening a lesson from Sidney Poitier’s mother.” I thought to myself, what lasting words of wisdom did the mother of Sidney Poitier impart to her son? The lesson was simple, yet powerful, “Always say thank you and please.” During the taped interview, Sidney Poitier went on to say how many times thank you and please opened doors for him. His mother’s wisdom, so simple, so powerful, particularly when said in a heartfelt manner. That same week I took my car…
I try not to overlook connections that might lead to opportunities to learn and grow. One of the most significant connections in my life came from a complete stranger. I was reading when someone said, “If you like that book, I think you would really enjoy reading Miracles Every Day.” That was 7 years ago and I am still learning and growing from the connections I have made through reading that book. Spiritually the book simplifies the path to strengthening your faith. Reading the book led me to the healing services and then to an office appointment with Dr. Nemeh…
Faith is the priority that brings meaning to my life. Faith provides a framework that when nurtured blossoms into a way of life and fosters hope. After reading the book, Miracles Every Day, by Maura Poston Zagrans, I decided to make a few changes in my daily routine. The first change was making a point of thanking Jesus throughout the day. I had always been grateful and thankful for the life I led, but I had not specifically given credit to Jesus. At first, I focused on thanking Jesus. Silently, I gave thanks for everything. Some examples would be a…
Why am I content with the unknown? I am content because I know that Jesus has my back. Love is the necessary ingredient that opens the door for us to be with Jesus. The world has faced some difficult years. We don’t know what 2022 will bring, but I know that I will walk into the year having love in my heart. I am grateful and thankful that despite the unusual times we are experiencing I am content that in time things will improve. Some will worry about the future, but I prefer to take one day at a…
As I take a moment to reflect on Christmas I remind myself why we are celebrating. Once I center my thoughts on the meaning of Christmas I am better able to move through the season and appreciate all that each year brings. Things are always changing, traditions get altered, and life brings new challenges every year. When I center my thoughts on celebrating Jesus, those changes quickly become little curves in the road rather than obstacles that bring sadness, disappointment, or even anger. I consider myself very fortunate because I grew up in a home where my parents had little…
Storms were brewing for our family during 2020 and 2021. Sometimes we experienced a light shower other times a downpour. There were times when we were hit with hail and even a few tornados that spun us around and spit us out in every direction. I believe that many of those reading this blog have also had their share of storms, particularly during the past few years. The struggles and storms can attempt to throw us off track if we are not equipped with the right tools. For me, those tools are hope and love. No matter the strength of…
With the excitement of the holiday season, I like to plan for success. That doesn’t mean that the plan has to be perfect or that everything will run smoothly. What it does mean is that I have a plan that can be adapted, moment to moment, depending on how the day is going. I like my plan to be a simple one-word outline. When things get a bit out of control, I can look at the plan and make changes as needed. If things are going smoothly, I may not ever look at the plan and simply let…