My daughter was spontaneously asked to describe her family in one word; she chose the word “chill” which I will redefine as peaceful. What she doesn’t know is that I work at maintaining a life that allows us as a family to “chill.” That allows us in this busy world to take the time to recharge the body and mind. Rest is, of course, a component of our relaxing environment, but none of us require an excess of sleep. My children rarely took naps when they were young. For our family, our home is a place to recharge. Not…
In my opinion, one of the most difficult things to do is to let go of control. To let go of accomplishing my dreams, and my way, and allow myself to trust in faith that my intended path will take me to far greater places. I know that I have to be willing to let go of my specific wants and dreams to be blessed with far more than I ever could imagine. I don’t feel as though I have given up on my dreams. I altered my dreams, walked in faith down paths that I would not have…
A true friend is something to be cherished. To me, it is a friend who doesn’t require anything of you. A person who loves you for who you are not who they want you to become. Someone who is there for the celebrations and is happy for you, and is there for the disappointments and is willing to listen. My children have asked me, “Who’s your best friend?” The term best friend is hard for me to define. But I certainly know my true friends. It is my hope that my true friends know that friendship is reciprocal…
The message I heard loud and clear this week is to be the light. Shine a light on those around you, share hope, and radiate love. I have shared Dr. Issam Nemeh’s words of wisdom in several blogs. This past week I listened to a message where he encouraged us to shine and bring hope to others, particularly during this difficult time. At a time when anger, hate, fear, and depression are on the rise, it is a priority to continue to love others. Dr. Nemeh highlighted three areas of concentration; surrender everything to Jesus, have true faith, and…
I am not always prepared for change, but dealing with change is a lot easier with the right perspective. Normally our house is full of people over the holidays, but life has taken the girls and me down a different path over the last few years. In the past, this weekend would be the kick-off for summertime guests, a house full of people, and lots of hustle and bustle. It was the middle of the afternoon on Memorial Day and I found myself floating in our pool… alone. Interestingly enough, the change was not troublesome, it was peaceful. As…
I listen carefully to all advice that I am given and make a decision on how that advice relates to me and my beliefs. Equally as important as the advice I follow is the advice that I tuck away as something not to pursue. I try my best to avoid giving unwanted advice to others. However, my continual advice to myself is to keep my heart open to abundant love. As I walk through each day I make a decision to love. I choose to see the good. I can always find something to dislike, but I don’t allow…
We are experiencing a time when reassuring people with a hug is limited to your immediate isolation “family.” It is a time when many of us need that closeness, but some of our normal avenues of comfort are not readily available to us. Looking at my own family I am incredibly impressed at how they have adapted to what has been imposed on all of us these past few months. Although none of us know what is in our future, I find myself giving reassurance that we will embrace whatever becomes our new normal. I see a world full of…
I care what people think because I don’t want people not to like me, right? It is so simple but so powerful. Most of us want to be liked or want to be likable. Being disliked can be very lonely. However, it seems to me that we can be lonely even if we are well-liked. So why do I really care what people think? 1. I care because I genuinely have love in my heart for all individuals. I may not respect everything that everyone does, but I do have love in my heart for all. The opposite…
“I love you” are powerful words when used authentically. I was reminded earlier this week regarding the importance of verbally communicating the love in your heart. Equally important is the meaning of what we say! During this time of social distancing, it seems even more important to define our feelings in words. Those words might be targeted at our family, friends, or even co-workers. When entering my parent’s home I am greeted with warm hugs. When I leave we again exchange heartfelt hugs and say, “Love you.” During this time of social distancing, it is awkward to come…
What can I do to minimize the stress around me? If I am asking that question that means I am aware that stress exists in my life. Acknowledging that I am in the middle of a storm is a very good start. Once I admit that stress exists I am able to put together a plan to reduce or eliminate that stress. 1. Give my worries to God and rely on my faith. The moment I feel stress negatively affecting my life, I take a moment and give my worries to God. I pray for assistance in finding a solution…