I use prayer abundantly and rely on my faith: here is a glimpse into the humiliation and love I was exposed to recently. I found myself in a situation that was extremely awkward for myself, for those around me, and for the person who appeared to be losing self-esteem, self-confidence, and pride. It was one of those situations where I felt quite helpless regarding how to assist in the situation and yet so uneasy about the tone of what was going on around me. I arrived near the end of what transpired, so I can only imagine what…
As I watched the streaming of Hamilton, one particular line stood out to me. The line was “Talk less, smile more.” Although the perfect line for the play, what came to my mind was “Talk less, listen more.” Listen to gain an understanding I listen to others so I can understand what people are going through and so that I can learn from their experiences. Listening is simple, but not always easy. I enjoy learning about what is important to those around me and have a listening ear when one needs to vent. The challenging part comes with all the…
If I don’t believe what I can see, how do I believe what I can’t see? I observe people not believing in themselves, not believing that they are beautiful, not believing that they are smart, and not believing that they can accomplish great things. I see people who have lost weight look into the mirror and not see that they have lost anything despite the fact that the scale is evidence of success. I have witnessed gorgeous people of all shapes and sizes look into the mirror and not believe that they are beautiful. I know people who…
When I think about my unconditional friends, I am referring to people that under any circumstance I feel comfortable reaching out to them personally or by phone. There are no judgments made and no questions asked, simply someone who will listen. Not only do they listen, but they are confidential and offer constructive responses when appropriate. It always surprises me that these unconditional friends are not necessarily people that I am around daily or even that I think about on a regular basis. I can count on them at all costs. I have confidence in the person and their value…
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…