Never give up; you never know until you try.
I hope everyone has a safe and happy New Year's Eve and a prosperous 2012. May you have no unfinished business left over from 2011--no baggage, no hurts.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Merry Christmas
Never give up; you never know until you try.
I decided to post early this week because like so many of us, I've got a whirlwind week planned. I wish everyone a wonderful Christmas and a joyous Hanukkah.
I decided to post early this week because like so many of us, I've got a whirlwind week planned. I wish everyone a wonderful Christmas and a joyous Hanukkah.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Betrayal
Never give up; you never know until you try.
My apologies for posting later this week than usual. I'm still reeling from a betrayal, and to say that I'm shaken to my core, cliche' that it is, is accurate.
We've all been there and felt that pain that is unlike any other, so I'm sure you can relate. When things like this happen, I guess most of us try to figure out what went wrong and regroup, hoping that it will never happen again, at least with the same person. Often, a relationship is killed when one party betrays another, but sometimes the relationship can be saved and both (or all) parties learn a valuable lesson. I'm unsure at this stage what my outcome will be, but I have been reminded of a valuable lesson. (You knew that, I'm sure.)
God never betrays us. He's always faithful, always true, always loving. He's with us to the end. He never forgets us. I'm holding onto those promises.
My apologies for posting later this week than usual. I'm still reeling from a betrayal, and to say that I'm shaken to my core, cliche' that it is, is accurate.
We've all been there and felt that pain that is unlike any other, so I'm sure you can relate. When things like this happen, I guess most of us try to figure out what went wrong and regroup, hoping that it will never happen again, at least with the same person. Often, a relationship is killed when one party betrays another, but sometimes the relationship can be saved and both (or all) parties learn a valuable lesson. I'm unsure at this stage what my outcome will be, but I have been reminded of a valuable lesson. (You knew that, I'm sure.)
God never betrays us. He's always faithful, always true, always loving. He's with us to the end. He never forgets us. I'm holding onto those promises.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Remember--and Be Grateful
Never give up; you never know until you try.
Part of a student’s daily work in the GED class is to journal what he or she has worked on that day. To help the process, one of us instructors will write the date on the board at the front of the room, knowing that it’s very easy to forget the date. (Yes, we sometimes “cheat” by checking the date on the computer.)
Today, I had already erased the board when a student asked if we knew the date. Thinking maybe he meant that he didn’t know the date, I told him, but that wasn’t what he was asking. He restated, asking if we knew what that (the date) meant. When I said, “Pearl Harbor Day”, he smiled slightly and wrote his journal entry. He said nothing more and neither did I.
As anyone familiar with me knows, that is very unlike me. I’ve always got something to say, especially about something as important as the tragedy that occurred December 7, 1941. I could’ve said how much I appreciate the brave women and men who serve the United States in our military. I could’ve said that I feel a debt of gratitude to them and their families for their sacrifice. I could’ve said that that debt is magnified countless times for those who have given their lives or who live with lasting physical and emotional repercussions of their service. I didn’t, but I didn’t need to, because “R” and I had already discussed my views on military service when he joined the class. Upon learning of his past military service, I did what I make it a point to do when I meet a veteran—I thanked him for his service to our country.
I hope everyone in the States remembered today for what it was. It was the anniversary of one tragic event in a far-too-long list of tragic events in the history of our nation and the world. The idealist in me cringes that there is still so much poverty, bloodshed, and misery. The optimist holds onto the positives that are still all around. The Christian in me wants everyone to really understand and remember where the positives come from: a loving God Who gave Himself for us.
Remember. Be grateful.
Part of a student’s daily work in the GED class is to journal what he or she has worked on that day. To help the process, one of us instructors will write the date on the board at the front of the room, knowing that it’s very easy to forget the date. (Yes, we sometimes “cheat” by checking the date on the computer.)
Today, I had already erased the board when a student asked if we knew the date. Thinking maybe he meant that he didn’t know the date, I told him, but that wasn’t what he was asking. He restated, asking if we knew what that (the date) meant. When I said, “Pearl Harbor Day”, he smiled slightly and wrote his journal entry. He said nothing more and neither did I.
As anyone familiar with me knows, that is very unlike me. I’ve always got something to say, especially about something as important as the tragedy that occurred December 7, 1941. I could’ve said how much I appreciate the brave women and men who serve the United States in our military. I could’ve said that I feel a debt of gratitude to them and their families for their sacrifice. I could’ve said that that debt is magnified countless times for those who have given their lives or who live with lasting physical and emotional repercussions of their service. I didn’t, but I didn’t need to, because “R” and I had already discussed my views on military service when he joined the class. Upon learning of his past military service, I did what I make it a point to do when I meet a veteran—I thanked him for his service to our country.
I hope everyone in the States remembered today for what it was. It was the anniversary of one tragic event in a far-too-long list of tragic events in the history of our nation and the world. The idealist in me cringes that there is still so much poverty, bloodshed, and misery. The optimist holds onto the positives that are still all around. The Christian in me wants everyone to really understand and remember where the positives come from: a loving God Who gave Himself for us.
Remember. Be grateful.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Curiosity
Never give up; you never know until you try.
I found this little tidbit, by Patricia Alexander in "Book of Comforts," on Quoteland.com:
Fear paralyzes; curiosity empowers. Be more interested than afraid.
I've written before that this same sentiment appears in the book "Who Moved My Cheese?" by Spencer Johnson, MD. There, the question posed is what we would do if we weren't afraid. Most of us are curious about what would happen if we were to embark on a certain path, but many of us let fear stop us. What a shame. We miss out on countless blessings in doing so.
One of my business mentors told me recently that she can see an ant crawling up a wall and could spend hours watching it, curious as to where it will go next. (If she had the time, which she doesn't.) She does, however, take time to see what may develop from an encounter with someone--or something. Even taking time to ponder an ant's path up a wall or across the floor will relax the mind and body, something much needed in our fast-paced world. When we're relaxed, ideas flow more easily and problems (or unknowns) seem smaller and easier to manage. Less frightening.
As I've written, I'm working on a few challenging new projects, encountering many unknowns, with more to come. I'm trying to be more interested in what positives may happen than I am scared about what negatives may happen. I hope you'll join me in adopting this approach. You may find that you're praying more and relying on God more instead of trying to do it your way. What a great place to be!
I found this little tidbit, by Patricia Alexander in "Book of Comforts," on Quoteland.com:
Fear paralyzes; curiosity empowers. Be more interested than afraid.
I've written before that this same sentiment appears in the book "Who Moved My Cheese?" by Spencer Johnson, MD. There, the question posed is what we would do if we weren't afraid. Most of us are curious about what would happen if we were to embark on a certain path, but many of us let fear stop us. What a shame. We miss out on countless blessings in doing so.
One of my business mentors told me recently that she can see an ant crawling up a wall and could spend hours watching it, curious as to where it will go next. (If she had the time, which she doesn't.) She does, however, take time to see what may develop from an encounter with someone--or something. Even taking time to ponder an ant's path up a wall or across the floor will relax the mind and body, something much needed in our fast-paced world. When we're relaxed, ideas flow more easily and problems (or unknowns) seem smaller and easier to manage. Less frightening.
As I've written, I'm working on a few challenging new projects, encountering many unknowns, with more to come. I'm trying to be more interested in what positives may happen than I am scared about what negatives may happen. I hope you'll join me in adopting this approach. You may find that you're praying more and relying on God more instead of trying to do it your way. What a great place to be!
Friday, November 25, 2011
Are You Still Thankful?
Never give up; you never know until you try.
It's the day after Thanksgiving. We've stuffed ourselves more than we (or Aunt Martha) stuffed the turkey. We've fought the crowds for "Black Friday" bargains and possibly saved money on our Christmas gifts. Maybe we're tired, irritable, or nauseated--even all 3. Underneath it all, are we still thankful, or did we put on "thankfulness" as we would put on a coat to go outside?
May we all have an attitude of thankfulness and love as we go into the Christmas season, filling our wish lists with things for others instead of ourselves.
It's the day after Thanksgiving. We've stuffed ourselves more than we (or Aunt Martha) stuffed the turkey. We've fought the crowds for "Black Friday" bargains and possibly saved money on our Christmas gifts. Maybe we're tired, irritable, or nauseated--even all 3. Underneath it all, are we still thankful, or did we put on "thankfulness" as we would put on a coat to go outside?
May we all have an attitude of thankfulness and love as we go into the Christmas season, filling our wish lists with things for others instead of ourselves.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
A Tribute and a Challenge (Part 1)
Never give up; you never know until you try.
Death claimed my friend Bill last Monday. He was only 67, but he crammed a lot into those years. He lived and he loved, always remaining true to himself. He was stubborn, and he was fiercely loyal. He was enigmatic—extremely outspoken on some subjects while remaining intensely private and maddeningly silent about others.
Bill was very open about his disdain of hypocrisy, especially in people who profess to be Christians. Like many of us, he questioned why, if there is a loving God out there, why bad things happen. It seemed that he blamed God and that he thought that God should make people “behave.” I shared many times my belief that God loves us enough to allow us to make mistakes, just as any earthly parent loves us and wants what’s best for us but allows us to make mistakes so we can learn from them. I didn’t want Bill’s unanswered questions, or anger with God, or anything else, to keep him from calling out to God and accepting His love and forgiveness. He probably had questions remaining when he drew his last breath, but Bill got the most important question answered: God loved (will always love) him. He loved him enough to send His Son to die to redeem him. Accepting Jesus’ sacrificial death and gift of forgiveness made Bill right with God. (John 3:16)
Bill always worked hard to provide for his family; he seemed to be of the old-school, showing his love in practical ways rather than being physically or verbally demonstrative. He seemed uncomfortable with open displays of affection, but he would hug you back and pat you on the back in a gruff, embarrassed manner. It was that trait that made his rare open displays all the more special.
He told me on several occasions that I was the daughter he never had, and I often told him that he was like a dad to me. (I’ve only seen my biological father a few times, and my first experience with a stepdad was a hellish nightmare. Mother married my current one, a real gem, in 2001.) One holiday after Dad, Bill and I had eaten the meal my mother had lovingly prepared and we were all sitting in the den relaxing, I said to no one in particular, “I feel so blessed. It’s like I’ve got a mother and two dads in this room with me.” (May we all be so blessed.)
I’ll post part 2 this upcoming week, so look out for the “challenge” part!
Death claimed my friend Bill last Monday. He was only 67, but he crammed a lot into those years. He lived and he loved, always remaining true to himself. He was stubborn, and he was fiercely loyal. He was enigmatic—extremely outspoken on some subjects while remaining intensely private and maddeningly silent about others.
Bill was very open about his disdain of hypocrisy, especially in people who profess to be Christians. Like many of us, he questioned why, if there is a loving God out there, why bad things happen. It seemed that he blamed God and that he thought that God should make people “behave.” I shared many times my belief that God loves us enough to allow us to make mistakes, just as any earthly parent loves us and wants what’s best for us but allows us to make mistakes so we can learn from them. I didn’t want Bill’s unanswered questions, or anger with God, or anything else, to keep him from calling out to God and accepting His love and forgiveness. He probably had questions remaining when he drew his last breath, but Bill got the most important question answered: God loved (will always love) him. He loved him enough to send His Son to die to redeem him. Accepting Jesus’ sacrificial death and gift of forgiveness made Bill right with God. (John 3:16)
Bill always worked hard to provide for his family; he seemed to be of the old-school, showing his love in practical ways rather than being physically or verbally demonstrative. He seemed uncomfortable with open displays of affection, but he would hug you back and pat you on the back in a gruff, embarrassed manner. It was that trait that made his rare open displays all the more special.
He told me on several occasions that I was the daughter he never had, and I often told him that he was like a dad to me. (I’ve only seen my biological father a few times, and my first experience with a stepdad was a hellish nightmare. Mother married my current one, a real gem, in 2001.) One holiday after Dad, Bill and I had eaten the meal my mother had lovingly prepared and we were all sitting in the den relaxing, I said to no one in particular, “I feel so blessed. It’s like I’ve got a mother and two dads in this room with me.” (May we all be so blessed.)
I’ll post part 2 this upcoming week, so look out for the “challenge” part!
Friday, November 11, 2011
Death
Never give up; you never know until you try.
Due to a death in my family, I haven't posted this week. I'm still overwhelmed and numb at the same time, so I'm mulling over my thoughts and will post sometime between Friday 11/11 and Sunday 11/13.
Due to a death in my family, I haven't posted this week. I'm still overwhelmed and numb at the same time, so I'm mulling over my thoughts and will post sometime between Friday 11/11 and Sunday 11/13.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
More on Friendship: Iron Sharpens Iron
Never give up; you never know until you try.
If you’re like me, sometimes you encounter someone and wonder why in the world God has allowed him or her to come into your life. Those are often the “rub you the wrong way” people. I’ve heard them called “Sandpaper People”. Although it’s been said that God seems to place those people into our lives to challenge us and to help us grow into better people, we often see their presence as a monumental curse. When we encounter them, we think to ourselves, I can’t deal with her; she’s so different from me and so irritating. Please make her go away, Lord! Actually, it’s often their similarity to us that’s really the problem; we see our imperfections mirrored to us, and they ain’t pretty. (The “ain’t” there was intentional, by the way.)
Sometimes, though, we meet someone and feel blessed to know him or her. That’s the case with a new friend of mine. I already see a couple reasons why God has brought this dear lady into my life. We have noticed that we share several strengths as well as several areas the Lord is still perfecting in us. My sweet friend has praised me generously, saying that I have encouraged her. She has certainly encouraged me when I’ve needed it, and in sharing her areas of weakness with me, she has challenged me to confront those same weaknesses in my life. Trust me when I say that a couple of those areas need lots of perfecting.
Scripture says that as iron sharpens iron, friends sharpen each other. (Proverbs 27:17) My new friend is helping to sharpen me.
If you’re like me, sometimes you encounter someone and wonder why in the world God has allowed him or her to come into your life. Those are often the “rub you the wrong way” people. I’ve heard them called “Sandpaper People”. Although it’s been said that God seems to place those people into our lives to challenge us and to help us grow into better people, we often see their presence as a monumental curse. When we encounter them, we think to ourselves, I can’t deal with her; she’s so different from me and so irritating. Please make her go away, Lord! Actually, it’s often their similarity to us that’s really the problem; we see our imperfections mirrored to us, and they ain’t pretty. (The “ain’t” there was intentional, by the way.)
Sometimes, though, we meet someone and feel blessed to know him or her. That’s the case with a new friend of mine. I already see a couple reasons why God has brought this dear lady into my life. We have noticed that we share several strengths as well as several areas the Lord is still perfecting in us. My sweet friend has praised me generously, saying that I have encouraged her. She has certainly encouraged me when I’ve needed it, and in sharing her areas of weakness with me, she has challenged me to confront those same weaknesses in my life. Trust me when I say that a couple of those areas need lots of perfecting.
Scripture says that as iron sharpens iron, friends sharpen each other. (Proverbs 27:17) My new friend is helping to sharpen me.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Dr. Seuss
Never give up; you never know until you try.
I have always loved Dr. Seuss, so today, later in the week than my usual post (I've been sick) I give you a few quotes, which I found on goodreads.com
"Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.” (I often find that hard to do.)
“Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple.” (Sometimes we don't trust a simple answer, figuring that such a hard question must have a hard answer.)
"Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.”
―from his book Happy Birthday to You! (You can't be Johnny Depp or Kim K, but they can't be you, either.)
I have always loved Dr. Seuss, so today, later in the week than my usual post (I've been sick) I give you a few quotes, which I found on goodreads.com
"Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.” (I often find that hard to do.)
“Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple.” (Sometimes we don't trust a simple answer, figuring that such a hard question must have a hard answer.)
"Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.”
―from his book Happy Birthday to You! (You can't be Johnny Depp or Kim K, but they can't be you, either.)
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
The Frisbee
Never give up; you never know until you try.
There are corny jokes, and there are corny jokes. I'm warning you: this is a bad one.
The Frisbee
I wondered why the Frisbee was getting bigger, and then it hit me.
I found this on a clean joke site recently and decided to pass it along to you. I hope you don't need things to hit you before you "get" them; but as I've written before, I sometimes do.
My wish for today is that we all have fewer Frisbees colliding with our heads (between the eyes, maybe) and more sailing smoothly into our waiting hands.
There are corny jokes, and there are corny jokes. I'm warning you: this is a bad one.
The Frisbee
I wondered why the Frisbee was getting bigger, and then it hit me.
I found this on a clean joke site recently and decided to pass it along to you. I hope you don't need things to hit you before you "get" them; but as I've written before, I sometimes do.
My wish for today is that we all have fewer Frisbees colliding with our heads (between the eyes, maybe) and more sailing smoothly into our waiting hands.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Analyzing, Reflecting, and Correcting: New and Improved!
Never give up; you never know until you try.
As my readers have probably realized, I’m analytical and self-reflective. Heck, I’m analytical and reflective about just about everything, like a child asking why the sky is blue. Admittedly, that can be crazy-making, but it can also be very useful, even life-saving in a way.
Life-saving may be a slight exaggeration, but a recent round of analysis and reflection yielded the unavoidable conclusion that I need to change my approach to a current (important) project. Correct my course, as it were. I’m just glad that I haven’t dug myself into a hole I can’t climb out of—or, to continue my nautical metaphor, I’m glad I haven’t run aground.
One of my colleagues always stresses to her clients the importance of taking the time to do the groundwork the right way so you can avoid some major problems later. I believe that’s true in business endeavors and personal ones, so I try to follow her advice.
Of course, you can’t plan for everything, but careful planning, including making necessary changes to the plan, can help you avoid some unpleasantries.
So, dear readers, I urge you to do what I’ve done: make a course correction if you need to. After all, we flock to the stores to buy the latest “new and improved” version of our favorite products. Why not call your course correction your “new and improved” approach?
As my readers have probably realized, I’m analytical and self-reflective. Heck, I’m analytical and reflective about just about everything, like a child asking why the sky is blue. Admittedly, that can be crazy-making, but it can also be very useful, even life-saving in a way.
Life-saving may be a slight exaggeration, but a recent round of analysis and reflection yielded the unavoidable conclusion that I need to change my approach to a current (important) project. Correct my course, as it were. I’m just glad that I haven’t dug myself into a hole I can’t climb out of—or, to continue my nautical metaphor, I’m glad I haven’t run aground.
One of my colleagues always stresses to her clients the importance of taking the time to do the groundwork the right way so you can avoid some major problems later. I believe that’s true in business endeavors and personal ones, so I try to follow her advice.
Of course, you can’t plan for everything, but careful planning, including making necessary changes to the plan, can help you avoid some unpleasantries.
So, dear readers, I urge you to do what I’ve done: make a course correction if you need to. After all, we flock to the stores to buy the latest “new and improved” version of our favorite products. Why not call your course correction your “new and improved” approach?
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Look Beneath the Bluster
Never give up; you never know until you try.
A dear friend is dealing with late-stage pancreatic cancer. Though he has been sick for several years, the cause of his complaints remained a mystery until recently. He is getting his affairs in order, hoping that he has time to do so. Like many of us, he put some important things off because he thought he had plenty of time to do them tomorrow, or the day after that, or the day after that . . .
“W” has always been stubborn and full of life. You might even describe him as full of a certain substance and vinegar. (You know the saying.) He has been like a father to me, so it’s hard to watch his façade of cool control slip. I knew all along that he was so much bluster covering a soft and deeply-wounded heart, and I have accepted and loved him for the gruff jokester that he has been.
Many times over the years, “W” has said completely outrageous things just to see how people would react. He could be off-putting if you took him seriously, and he was so good at spouting balderdash that you couldn’t tell whether he was serious or not. I learned to look beneath the bluster to the gentle man that he was—and is, and my life has been better for having known him. I hope and pray that I will have more time with him.
“W” hasn’t come to a place of realizing just how much God loves him; he hasn’t said so, at least. That’s my biggest concern, because I hate to think of someone enduring the tribulations “W” has and end up facing something as horrible as cancer without embracing God’s immeasurable love and acceptance.
My challenge today is for everyone to look beneath the balderdash, the gruff exterior, the bluster, to the flawed, hurting human hiding in the shadows. Love him. Love her. God does. Most importantly, share the truth of God’s love and mercy with him or her.
A dear friend is dealing with late-stage pancreatic cancer. Though he has been sick for several years, the cause of his complaints remained a mystery until recently. He is getting his affairs in order, hoping that he has time to do so. Like many of us, he put some important things off because he thought he had plenty of time to do them tomorrow, or the day after that, or the day after that . . .
“W” has always been stubborn and full of life. You might even describe him as full of a certain substance and vinegar. (You know the saying.) He has been like a father to me, so it’s hard to watch his façade of cool control slip. I knew all along that he was so much bluster covering a soft and deeply-wounded heart, and I have accepted and loved him for the gruff jokester that he has been.
Many times over the years, “W” has said completely outrageous things just to see how people would react. He could be off-putting if you took him seriously, and he was so good at spouting balderdash that you couldn’t tell whether he was serious or not. I learned to look beneath the bluster to the gentle man that he was—and is, and my life has been better for having known him. I hope and pray that I will have more time with him.
“W” hasn’t come to a place of realizing just how much God loves him; he hasn’t said so, at least. That’s my biggest concern, because I hate to think of someone enduring the tribulations “W” has and end up facing something as horrible as cancer without embracing God’s immeasurable love and acceptance.
My challenge today is for everyone to look beneath the balderdash, the gruff exterior, the bluster, to the flawed, hurting human hiding in the shadows. Love him. Love her. God does. Most importantly, share the truth of God’s love and mercy with him or her.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
1-2-3; All Eyes On Me
Never give up; you never know until you try.
How do you direct someone’s attention back to you when it has gone somewhere else? I had that question answered tonight at a business seminar. The instructor refocused everyone after a break by saying, “1-2-3, all eyes on me!” Comic, semi-juvenile soul that I am, I broke into a big grin and said, “I love that!” The teacher promptly shared that her child’s teacher had used that little rhyme to refocus her elementary-age students when they became talkative in class. I’m not going to comment as to what it says about me that I found the rhyme so endearing, but it made me think.
I couldn’t help but wonder how many people go through life needing attention yet not getting it. Or getting too little. The person who is struggling with illness or substance abuse. Or poverty. The person who is being abused. Then I concluded that God must surely feel that way with us—most assuredly with me, anyway.
I find it so easy to focus my attention on my problems, on my current projects, on my future plans. It’s too easy to get wrapped up in myself.
Thankfully, God understands the tendency we all have to get wrapped up in ourselves and gently nudges us to be more involved in helping others with their problems. He also nudges us to be more involved with Him. I’m glad when people listen to those nudges, because there have been times when a hug or a kind word from someone made my day. I may not have had all eyes on me, but because someone listened to the Someone who always has His eyes on me, I got the strength to press on.
Thank you to all the dear people who have been there for someone when he or she needed it!
How do you direct someone’s attention back to you when it has gone somewhere else? I had that question answered tonight at a business seminar. The instructor refocused everyone after a break by saying, “1-2-3, all eyes on me!” Comic, semi-juvenile soul that I am, I broke into a big grin and said, “I love that!” The teacher promptly shared that her child’s teacher had used that little rhyme to refocus her elementary-age students when they became talkative in class. I’m not going to comment as to what it says about me that I found the rhyme so endearing, but it made me think.
I couldn’t help but wonder how many people go through life needing attention yet not getting it. Or getting too little. The person who is struggling with illness or substance abuse. Or poverty. The person who is being abused. Then I concluded that God must surely feel that way with us—most assuredly with me, anyway.
I find it so easy to focus my attention on my problems, on my current projects, on my future plans. It’s too easy to get wrapped up in myself.
Thankfully, God understands the tendency we all have to get wrapped up in ourselves and gently nudges us to be more involved in helping others with their problems. He also nudges us to be more involved with Him. I’m glad when people listen to those nudges, because there have been times when a hug or a kind word from someone made my day. I may not have had all eyes on me, but because someone listened to the Someone who always has His eyes on me, I got the strength to press on.
Thank you to all the dear people who have been there for someone when he or she needed it!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Laughter Does a Body Good
Never give up; you never know until you try.
Most of us have heard or read that laughter improves health. The Bible says it and modern medical research says it. So today, dear readers, I submit the following. You may laugh uproariously, roll your eyes, groan, or think I have the strangest sense of humor you ever encountered. If you find my offerings un-funny, just think of your favorite joke or story and remember that I suggested you do so. PS: These are from cleanjoke.com
Drum Roll Here
Two peanuts were walking down the road, and one was a salted!
Q Why did the cookie go to the doctor?
A Because he felt crummy.
I’d stop eating chocolate, but I’m no quitter!
*************************************************************
Enough about food—it’s time for a light bedtime snack and my date with the sandman. Have a wonderful week, everyone.
Most of us have heard or read that laughter improves health. The Bible says it and modern medical research says it. So today, dear readers, I submit the following. You may laugh uproariously, roll your eyes, groan, or think I have the strangest sense of humor you ever encountered. If you find my offerings un-funny, just think of your favorite joke or story and remember that I suggested you do so. PS: These are from cleanjoke.com
Drum Roll Here
Two peanuts were walking down the road, and one was a salted!
Q Why did the cookie go to the doctor?
A Because he felt crummy.
I’d stop eating chocolate, but I’m no quitter!
*************************************************************
Enough about food—it’s time for a light bedtime snack and my date with the sandman. Have a wonderful week, everyone.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
How Many People?
Never give up; you never know until you try.
A fellow GED instructor said to me yesterday, “they (the students) have no idea how much we want them to succeed.” “They have no clue,” I agreed, my eyes misting as I thought of one young woman in particular.
Coming home from work, I started thinking about that exchange and wondering if that isn’t true of all of us. Do we really know how many people are “rooting” for us, and just how much they care? I doubt it.
Why? Because we’re all guilty of not expressing our concern, telling people how much they mean to us and how much we want the best for them. We’re all “too busy” and/or just don’t think about it. We figure they know, but they don’t always know. Maybe we don’t want to embarrass them. There are countless reasons why we don’t tell people that we’re “in their corner.”
So today I ask you to think about how many people there are who want the best for you, and how many people would love to hear from you that you want the best for them. Then brighten someone's day by telling her how much you care.
A fellow GED instructor said to me yesterday, “they (the students) have no idea how much we want them to succeed.” “They have no clue,” I agreed, my eyes misting as I thought of one young woman in particular.
Coming home from work, I started thinking about that exchange and wondering if that isn’t true of all of us. Do we really know how many people are “rooting” for us, and just how much they care? I doubt it.
Why? Because we’re all guilty of not expressing our concern, telling people how much they mean to us and how much we want the best for them. We’re all “too busy” and/or just don’t think about it. We figure they know, but they don’t always know. Maybe we don’t want to embarrass them. There are countless reasons why we don’t tell people that we’re “in their corner.”
So today I ask you to think about how many people there are who want the best for you, and how many people would love to hear from you that you want the best for them. Then brighten someone's day by telling her how much you care.
Monday, September 5, 2011
One Step at a Time
Never give up; you never know until you try.
For Labor Day week, I’m addressing “labor.” For those who don’t already know, I’ll admit right now that I’m a go-getter who likes to make—and see—steady progress toward my goals. I want it all, and I want it yesterday. Because I’ve noticed over the years that there are a lot of people in the same boat, I’ve written about this before, addressing myself as well as my readers. I wrote in “How Far You’ve Come” that I believe we should celebrate how far we’ve come instead of bemoaning how far we’ve still got to go or how long we’ve been striving to get to where we are. In “Journeys, Blessings, and Fatigue,” I wrote that leaping forward into the hoped-for future would mean missing out on blessings that occur along the way. Today, I’d like to remind us all of the often-heard advice to take it one step at a time.
Please, don’t kill the messenger. I agree with you; I hate that advice, too. Yet I’m convinced that it’s the most sensible way to approach a task. Skipping steps can lead to disaster—just ask someone who has had to go back and do something over because she left out an important step. Take intimacy, for example. There is no shortcut. It grows out of time spent together, really learning about another. Leap from “hello” into bed, and you end up in trouble. Leap into a business deal, and you could lose your life savings and your reputation at the same time.
I started working recently as a Basic Skills/GED tutor, and I see students wanting to hurry through the process required to get their high school equivalency credentials. Some express more impatience and frustration than others, trying to skip around in their computerized lesson plans instead of working systematically. Those who skip around, without fail, get confused as to what they should do next. Each lesson builds on the last, so there is some review, and they think they’re repeating lessons and have finished lessons they haven’t. That makes the process take longer and seem even longer. Skipping is definitely counterproductive.
Exercise is another good example I’ve noticed in my life. If I miss an exercise session, I’m sometimes tempted to try to make up for lost time and work out as long and hard as if I hadn’t missed any. What ends up happening is that I’m so sore that I’m sidelined longer as I recover from overworking my muscles. I’m sure everyone has done that at one time or another.
So I close with another old saying: slow and steady wins the race. I think I’ve noted before that I don’t necessarily agree with that piece of wisdom, but I agree that slow and steady is the way to go. Maybe you won’t win, but you have a better chance of finishing. One step at a time.
For Labor Day week, I’m addressing “labor.” For those who don’t already know, I’ll admit right now that I’m a go-getter who likes to make—and see—steady progress toward my goals. I want it all, and I want it yesterday. Because I’ve noticed over the years that there are a lot of people in the same boat, I’ve written about this before, addressing myself as well as my readers. I wrote in “How Far You’ve Come” that I believe we should celebrate how far we’ve come instead of bemoaning how far we’ve still got to go or how long we’ve been striving to get to where we are. In “Journeys, Blessings, and Fatigue,” I wrote that leaping forward into the hoped-for future would mean missing out on blessings that occur along the way. Today, I’d like to remind us all of the often-heard advice to take it one step at a time.
Please, don’t kill the messenger. I agree with you; I hate that advice, too. Yet I’m convinced that it’s the most sensible way to approach a task. Skipping steps can lead to disaster—just ask someone who has had to go back and do something over because she left out an important step. Take intimacy, for example. There is no shortcut. It grows out of time spent together, really learning about another. Leap from “hello” into bed, and you end up in trouble. Leap into a business deal, and you could lose your life savings and your reputation at the same time.
I started working recently as a Basic Skills/GED tutor, and I see students wanting to hurry through the process required to get their high school equivalency credentials. Some express more impatience and frustration than others, trying to skip around in their computerized lesson plans instead of working systematically. Those who skip around, without fail, get confused as to what they should do next. Each lesson builds on the last, so there is some review, and they think they’re repeating lessons and have finished lessons they haven’t. That makes the process take longer and seem even longer. Skipping is definitely counterproductive.
Exercise is another good example I’ve noticed in my life. If I miss an exercise session, I’m sometimes tempted to try to make up for lost time and work out as long and hard as if I hadn’t missed any. What ends up happening is that I’m so sore that I’m sidelined longer as I recover from overworking my muscles. I’m sure everyone has done that at one time or another.
So I close with another old saying: slow and steady wins the race. I think I’ve noted before that I don’t necessarily agree with that piece of wisdom, but I agree that slow and steady is the way to go. Maybe you won’t win, but you have a better chance of finishing. One step at a time.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Nip It In the Bud
Never give up; you never know until you try.
You notice a slight weight gain. Nip it in the bud. Weeds pop up in your garden. Nip them in the bud. You and your mate (parent, child, family member, coworker, friend, neighbor) experience a conflict . . . you get the idea. It's easier to halt something early on than to stop it once it has gained momentum. That's true of positive things and of negative things.
I've written before about "good things" versus "God things," and I still hold to the opinion that just because something is good doesn't mean I should be engaged in it. Even if it's a "good thing," if it isn't a "God thing," meaning I know God wants me to participate, then I shouldn't be involved. It may be hard, but I need to nip it in the bud. Of course, it goes without saying that a bad thing should be promptly stopped. Fat cells only get bigger if I don't actively work to shrink them. Weeds take over the garden if not treated with herbicide and/or physical removal. Relationships deteriorate if I don't address issues head-on.
So, what do you need to nip in the bud? I urge you to do it now, before the job gets even harder!
You notice a slight weight gain. Nip it in the bud. Weeds pop up in your garden. Nip them in the bud. You and your mate (parent, child, family member, coworker, friend, neighbor) experience a conflict . . . you get the idea. It's easier to halt something early on than to stop it once it has gained momentum. That's true of positive things and of negative things.
I've written before about "good things" versus "God things," and I still hold to the opinion that just because something is good doesn't mean I should be engaged in it. Even if it's a "good thing," if it isn't a "God thing," meaning I know God wants me to participate, then I shouldn't be involved. It may be hard, but I need to nip it in the bud. Of course, it goes without saying that a bad thing should be promptly stopped. Fat cells only get bigger if I don't actively work to shrink them. Weeds take over the garden if not treated with herbicide and/or physical removal. Relationships deteriorate if I don't address issues head-on.
So, what do you need to nip in the bud? I urge you to do it now, before the job gets even harder!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Unpredictability
Never give up; you never know until you try.
Tuesday, August 23, brought several surprises to me. A stranger at my door asked me a question completely out of left field, and I experienced the earthquake that literally rocked the east coast for miles.
I’ve heard of tornado damage being eerie in its unpredictability, and I’ve seen some incredible pictures—the wind levels one house and seems to jump over the next-door neighbor; it drives a piece of straw into a tree as a carpenter drives a nail into a piece of lumber; it gently deposits a baby, still in its car seat, safely into a tree, as if laying him into his mother’s arms.
I experienced the same type of thing in the aftermath of the quake. In my home office, I discovered that a couple small tables had moved across the floor from their original positions, yet porcelain and glass collectibles hadn’t budged.
We plan and go about our lives, acting as if we’re in control, but the control is an illusion. We don’t know what will happen to us in the next minute—we may not even be breathing the next minute. We may experience a severe natural event and come through unscathed, or we may lose everything.
I was reminded Tuesday that only God knows what will happen, whether 5 minutes or 5 years from now. That’s comforting when I feel “down” about something, be it financial uncertainty or unwanted singlehood. Tomorrow could be the day that everything turns around. Many unwanted events have caught me off guard, and many things which I’ll always cherish have done so, as well. You just never know.
Tuesday, August 23, brought several surprises to me. A stranger at my door asked me a question completely out of left field, and I experienced the earthquake that literally rocked the east coast for miles.
I’ve heard of tornado damage being eerie in its unpredictability, and I’ve seen some incredible pictures—the wind levels one house and seems to jump over the next-door neighbor; it drives a piece of straw into a tree as a carpenter drives a nail into a piece of lumber; it gently deposits a baby, still in its car seat, safely into a tree, as if laying him into his mother’s arms.
I experienced the same type of thing in the aftermath of the quake. In my home office, I discovered that a couple small tables had moved across the floor from their original positions, yet porcelain and glass collectibles hadn’t budged.
We plan and go about our lives, acting as if we’re in control, but the control is an illusion. We don’t know what will happen to us in the next minute—we may not even be breathing the next minute. We may experience a severe natural event and come through unscathed, or we may lose everything.
I was reminded Tuesday that only God knows what will happen, whether 5 minutes or 5 years from now. That’s comforting when I feel “down” about something, be it financial uncertainty or unwanted singlehood. Tomorrow could be the day that everything turns around. Many unwanted events have caught me off guard, and many things which I’ll always cherish have done so, as well. You just never know.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Formula for Success
Never give up; you never know until you try.
Legendary professional athlete Babe Didrikson Zaharias is quoted as saying, “The formula for success is simple: practice and concentration then more practice and more concentration.”
Any thoughts, anyone?
Legendary professional athlete Babe Didrikson Zaharias is quoted as saying, “The formula for success is simple: practice and concentration then more practice and more concentration.”
Any thoughts, anyone?
Thursday, August 11, 2011
We Have To See the Value for Ourselves
Never give up; you never know until you try.
I’m happy to report that after looking under every rock around, I’ve found a job. Unfortunately, it’s another part-time endeavor, but at least I’m moving in a positive direction again. I’m even doing something I enjoy! I’m tutoring students who never finished high school and are working toward their GED’s. I’m still in the training program, “shadowing” in various classrooms, but I should be out of training soon.
I’ve already concluded a few things. One thing is that students must see the value of obtaining a GED, or they won’t stick with the program. It can be tough, as anyone who has attended high school will attest. Add to the tough curriculum the fact that many GED hopefuls haven’t been in a classroom in a long time, and you start to understand how brave someone is to undertake such a challenge.
Of course, I would argue that it’s even more challenging finding a decent job without at least a high school diploma or equivalent. That’s one of the biggest reasons students find themselves in GED classes—being sick of years of low-paying jobs.
The youngest students haven’t lived through years and years of bad jobs, and I think maybe that’s why some of them seem to be so indifferent about the whole thing. With the bravado of youth, some seem to think they have plenty of time, that they’ll be the exception to the rule and actually land a great job without a high school education.
That might be the hardest part for me—dealing with that type of student. Of course I’ll try to encourage those who seem to not care, but I’ll have to remind myself that they’ve got to see the value for themselves, to want it for themselves.
After all, everything in life is that way. We have to want something for ourselves or we won’t stick with the process of attaining it. Losing weight, getting more education, whatever—it has to be something we want. We won’t stick with it if our parents, our children, our “significant others” talk us into it.
I’ve been thinking of how many times friends or family have stood by, waiting patiently while all of us have slooowly come to the place of seeing value in something they knew all along we needed to be doing. How many times has God stood by, waiting patiently while we slooowly came to the place of seeing value in spending time with Him, learning about Him?
And so, I’ve made a New Year’s Resolution of sorts. It is, after all, a new school year; right? My resolution is to examine myself and to ask God to reveal to me anything (or anyone) I have undervalued and to help me see the true value.
I’m happy to report that after looking under every rock around, I’ve found a job. Unfortunately, it’s another part-time endeavor, but at least I’m moving in a positive direction again. I’m even doing something I enjoy! I’m tutoring students who never finished high school and are working toward their GED’s. I’m still in the training program, “shadowing” in various classrooms, but I should be out of training soon.
I’ve already concluded a few things. One thing is that students must see the value of obtaining a GED, or they won’t stick with the program. It can be tough, as anyone who has attended high school will attest. Add to the tough curriculum the fact that many GED hopefuls haven’t been in a classroom in a long time, and you start to understand how brave someone is to undertake such a challenge.
Of course, I would argue that it’s even more challenging finding a decent job without at least a high school diploma or equivalent. That’s one of the biggest reasons students find themselves in GED classes—being sick of years of low-paying jobs.
The youngest students haven’t lived through years and years of bad jobs, and I think maybe that’s why some of them seem to be so indifferent about the whole thing. With the bravado of youth, some seem to think they have plenty of time, that they’ll be the exception to the rule and actually land a great job without a high school education.
That might be the hardest part for me—dealing with that type of student. Of course I’ll try to encourage those who seem to not care, but I’ll have to remind myself that they’ve got to see the value for themselves, to want it for themselves.
After all, everything in life is that way. We have to want something for ourselves or we won’t stick with the process of attaining it. Losing weight, getting more education, whatever—it has to be something we want. We won’t stick with it if our parents, our children, our “significant others” talk us into it.
I’ve been thinking of how many times friends or family have stood by, waiting patiently while all of us have slooowly come to the place of seeing value in something they knew all along we needed to be doing. How many times has God stood by, waiting patiently while we slooowly came to the place of seeing value in spending time with Him, learning about Him?
And so, I’ve made a New Year’s Resolution of sorts. It is, after all, a new school year; right? My resolution is to examine myself and to ask God to reveal to me anything (or anyone) I have undervalued and to help me see the true value.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Repeat After Me: I Refuse to . . .
Never give up; you never know until you try.
I’ve covered what I’m about to say before, but recent conversations I’ve had and conversations I’ve overheard have convinced me that it bears repeating.
Be yourself. Don’t try to be someone else, or even who (or what) you think someone else wants you to be.
Refuse to compromise your self.
Refuse to give up your self.
Refuse to give up on yourself.
Ask anyone who has done any of the 3 aforementioned things, and she will tell you in no uncertain terms that doing so was the biggest mistake she ever made, and she will beg you to avoid making the same mistake.
I’ve covered what I’m about to say before, but recent conversations I’ve had and conversations I’ve overheard have convinced me that it bears repeating.
Be yourself. Don’t try to be someone else, or even who (or what) you think someone else wants you to be.
Refuse to compromise your self.
Refuse to give up your self.
Refuse to give up on yourself.
Ask anyone who has done any of the 3 aforementioned things, and she will tell you in no uncertain terms that doing so was the biggest mistake she ever made, and she will beg you to avoid making the same mistake.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
How Far You've Come
Never give up; you never know until you try.
I read the same message twice today, from 2 different sources, so I'm passing it on to you. It may not resonate with you as it has with me, but I hope you'll think about it, because it may help you cut yourself some slack, especially if you're a perfectionist or if you're working on a big--or time-consuming project.
Drum roll, please. To boil it down, the message is:
Try to avoid looking at how much you still have to do and the distance you still have to travel. Look instead at how much you have done and how far you've come, and concentrate on the grace that has gotten you this far. Rest in that grace and remember that God will help you get the rest of the way.
To that bit of advice, I add my own advice to avoid looking at how long it has taken you to do what you have done and get as far as you have. The next leg of the journey may not be as long. Or, and I'm sorry to rain on your parade here, it may take longer. The whole point is to not worry about how far or how long to go but instead to celebrate the ground won so far. Admittedly, that's easier said than done, but life isn't easy. It can be painful and it can be messy; but with God in your corner, it will be okay.
I read the same message twice today, from 2 different sources, so I'm passing it on to you. It may not resonate with you as it has with me, but I hope you'll think about it, because it may help you cut yourself some slack, especially if you're a perfectionist or if you're working on a big--or time-consuming project.
Drum roll, please. To boil it down, the message is:
Try to avoid looking at how much you still have to do and the distance you still have to travel. Look instead at how much you have done and how far you've come, and concentrate on the grace that has gotten you this far. Rest in that grace and remember that God will help you get the rest of the way.
To that bit of advice, I add my own advice to avoid looking at how long it has taken you to do what you have done and get as far as you have. The next leg of the journey may not be as long. Or, and I'm sorry to rain on your parade here, it may take longer. The whole point is to not worry about how far or how long to go but instead to celebrate the ground won so far. Admittedly, that's easier said than done, but life isn't easy. It can be painful and it can be messy; but with God in your corner, it will be okay.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Not Truth, But Faith
Never give up; you never know until you try.
The title for today’s post comes from a quote by poet Edna St. Vincent Millay: “Not Truth, but Faith it is that keeps the world alive.” I ran across it as I was thumbing through one of the jillion books on my bookcase, and I think it struck me because I had just been reading through some old issues of writing magazines and found an article pooh-poohing the use of such Yoda-like backward phrasing. I agree with the advice to forego convoluted phrasing, unless done very sparingly and for a specific reason, and I agree with Edna, or “Vincent,” which her friends called her, according to Poets.org, because I think she had a reason for her phrasing.
Truth can be good, but for many, the everyday truth of their lives is a study in deprivation, degradation, violation, isolation—the list goes on and on. If not for faith that tomorrow will be better than today, they would succumb to complete despair and wither as surely as an autumn leaf. Yes, I could add that God’s Truth—the truth of His love and promises, etcetera, keeps us going, but if we don’t have faith in that Truth, we lose hope and wither.
Many of us have been there. We’ve found ourselves in circumstances we hated with every molecule of our DNA and that hurt like an old-fashioned operation with dirty instruments and no anesthesia. Bad marriages. Bad jobs, or no jobs. Death of loved ones. If living meant living as we were, we honestly wanted to die. Maybe only faith that things would get better was what kept us from ending our lives.
And so my challenge today is much like one I’ve issued before. I’ve encouraged readers to be “nice” to people, and today I encourage everyone to do what you can to foster faith, in yourself and in others, that tomorrow will be better than today. At the very least, even if circumstances remain the same, you’ve had more practice in coping with them.
The title for today’s post comes from a quote by poet Edna St. Vincent Millay: “Not Truth, but Faith it is that keeps the world alive.” I ran across it as I was thumbing through one of the jillion books on my bookcase, and I think it struck me because I had just been reading through some old issues of writing magazines and found an article pooh-poohing the use of such Yoda-like backward phrasing. I agree with the advice to forego convoluted phrasing, unless done very sparingly and for a specific reason, and I agree with Edna, or “Vincent,” which her friends called her, according to Poets.org, because I think she had a reason for her phrasing.
Truth can be good, but for many, the everyday truth of their lives is a study in deprivation, degradation, violation, isolation—the list goes on and on. If not for faith that tomorrow will be better than today, they would succumb to complete despair and wither as surely as an autumn leaf. Yes, I could add that God’s Truth—the truth of His love and promises, etcetera, keeps us going, but if we don’t have faith in that Truth, we lose hope and wither.
Many of us have been there. We’ve found ourselves in circumstances we hated with every molecule of our DNA and that hurt like an old-fashioned operation with dirty instruments and no anesthesia. Bad marriages. Bad jobs, or no jobs. Death of loved ones. If living meant living as we were, we honestly wanted to die. Maybe only faith that things would get better was what kept us from ending our lives.
And so my challenge today is much like one I’ve issued before. I’ve encouraged readers to be “nice” to people, and today I encourage everyone to do what you can to foster faith, in yourself and in others, that tomorrow will be better than today. At the very least, even if circumstances remain the same, you’ve had more practice in coping with them.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Blowing Off Steam
Never give up; you never know until you try.
I had a regrettable encounter with someone recently. Suffice it to say that when I crossed paths with this woman, she was in a bad mood and obviously itching for a fight. I, unfortunately, allowed her to bait me into a less-than-cordial verbal exchange in which I gratingly observed that she was obviously in a bad mood. I must've struck a nerve, because she grew even more hostile and retorted that I was the one in a bad mood. Keep in mind that I had been minding my own business, feeling just fine, thank you, when she rudely insinuated herself into my existence with an unwarranted attack, and you'll see why I flared. When she accused me of being the one in a bad mood, I heatedly replied, "I wasn't until I met you!" I excused myself to get away from her before I really lost my cool, but I didn't get away from her.
She stayed with me a while after our exchange. Or rather Satan stayed with me, accusing me a good while after the exchange. Granted, I wish I hadn't returned the woman's venom, but afterward I asked for forgiveness for my fit of temper. That should've been the end of it, but Satan loves to accuse us long after a regrettable episode has been forgotten by other parties.
I finally moved past the episode, reminding myself, and Satan, that it's sometimes easier said than done to "turn the other cheek." We're human; we react to unpleasantness, especially when it involves unjustified attacks on us.
For all I know, that young woman had endured just such an attack by someone else earlier in the day. I hope venting on me kept her from venting on the wrong person--someone who may have responded by physically assaulting her. I just wish I had reacted to her tirade with empathy, looked behind the venom, and asked if she was okay. Maybe then she would've felt cared for and unburdened herself in a positive way. The exchange would've turned into a blessing for us both. Then again, maybe she would've reacted the same way. I'll never know. What I do know is that I'm grateful for a Heavenly Father Who forgives and Who allows me to blow off steam to Him any time I feel the need and won't accuse me when I "blow it."
I had a regrettable encounter with someone recently. Suffice it to say that when I crossed paths with this woman, she was in a bad mood and obviously itching for a fight. I, unfortunately, allowed her to bait me into a less-than-cordial verbal exchange in which I gratingly observed that she was obviously in a bad mood. I must've struck a nerve, because she grew even more hostile and retorted that I was the one in a bad mood. Keep in mind that I had been minding my own business, feeling just fine, thank you, when she rudely insinuated herself into my existence with an unwarranted attack, and you'll see why I flared. When she accused me of being the one in a bad mood, I heatedly replied, "I wasn't until I met you!" I excused myself to get away from her before I really lost my cool, but I didn't get away from her.
She stayed with me a while after our exchange. Or rather Satan stayed with me, accusing me a good while after the exchange. Granted, I wish I hadn't returned the woman's venom, but afterward I asked for forgiveness for my fit of temper. That should've been the end of it, but Satan loves to accuse us long after a regrettable episode has been forgotten by other parties.
I finally moved past the episode, reminding myself, and Satan, that it's sometimes easier said than done to "turn the other cheek." We're human; we react to unpleasantness, especially when it involves unjustified attacks on us.
For all I know, that young woman had endured just such an attack by someone else earlier in the day. I hope venting on me kept her from venting on the wrong person--someone who may have responded by physically assaulting her. I just wish I had reacted to her tirade with empathy, looked behind the venom, and asked if she was okay. Maybe then she would've felt cared for and unburdened herself in a positive way. The exchange would've turned into a blessing for us both. Then again, maybe she would've reacted the same way. I'll never know. What I do know is that I'm grateful for a Heavenly Father Who forgives and Who allows me to blow off steam to Him any time I feel the need and won't accuse me when I "blow it."
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Freedom
Never give up; you never know until you try.
Monday we in the U.S. celebrated Independence Day. To some it involved a day away from work; to some it meant grilling out with friends and/or family; to some it meant fireworks displays; to some it meant all of the above.
It seems as if every devotional piece I've read this week has been about freedom and has quoted various Bible passages concerning freedom. "Freedom" is the "flavor of the week," meaning next week will bring a different flavor to capture our attention. It's still this week, though, so I hope you'll indulge me as I add my observations to the subject of freedom.
Saturday my friend "A" and I had a garage sale, bringing in a little money selling items we no longer want. We had a few customers and had fun hanging out together, even making a little extra cash. I was actually surprised by the amount of traffic we had. I was also surprised by 2 people's interaction with me.
Person 1 knew my face, remembering me from high school, though he didn't know my name. He was a couple years ahead of me, and we didn't run in the same circle, but he remembered from whence he knew me. (I looked in my yearbook when I got home and vaguely remembered seeing his picture before; I still don't remember him.)
Person 2, also older but a former neighbor from way back, used my name when he said goodbye as he left the sale. I didn't know he would remember my name, but he obviously did.
I was really glad both men seemed pleased, or at least not unhappy, to see me. That started my little brain to really working on the importance of treating people right and having a good reputation--people have long memories about some things. Being highly regarded brings a freedom of its own, while having a bad reputation brings bondage.
I'd like to think I've left nothing but good feelings and good memories of me in my wake, but I know there have been times when I was less than kind, less than considerate. We've all had bad days, circumstances we found ourselves in that brought out the worst in us, binding us.
That's why it's so important to surround ourselves with people who bring out the best in us and to be mindful of how we treat people; they remember us, even if we think they won't. As I noted in "The Payoff," you can never go wrong treating people with respect and kindness.
Monday we in the U.S. celebrated Independence Day. To some it involved a day away from work; to some it meant grilling out with friends and/or family; to some it meant fireworks displays; to some it meant all of the above.
It seems as if every devotional piece I've read this week has been about freedom and has quoted various Bible passages concerning freedom. "Freedom" is the "flavor of the week," meaning next week will bring a different flavor to capture our attention. It's still this week, though, so I hope you'll indulge me as I add my observations to the subject of freedom.
Saturday my friend "A" and I had a garage sale, bringing in a little money selling items we no longer want. We had a few customers and had fun hanging out together, even making a little extra cash. I was actually surprised by the amount of traffic we had. I was also surprised by 2 people's interaction with me.
Person 1 knew my face, remembering me from high school, though he didn't know my name. He was a couple years ahead of me, and we didn't run in the same circle, but he remembered from whence he knew me. (I looked in my yearbook when I got home and vaguely remembered seeing his picture before; I still don't remember him.)
Person 2, also older but a former neighbor from way back, used my name when he said goodbye as he left the sale. I didn't know he would remember my name, but he obviously did.
I was really glad both men seemed pleased, or at least not unhappy, to see me. That started my little brain to really working on the importance of treating people right and having a good reputation--people have long memories about some things. Being highly regarded brings a freedom of its own, while having a bad reputation brings bondage.
I'd like to think I've left nothing but good feelings and good memories of me in my wake, but I know there have been times when I was less than kind, less than considerate. We've all had bad days, circumstances we found ourselves in that brought out the worst in us, binding us.
That's why it's so important to surround ourselves with people who bring out the best in us and to be mindful of how we treat people; they remember us, even if we think they won't. As I noted in "The Payoff," you can never go wrong treating people with respect and kindness.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Lightening Up: Not Just For Summer
Never give up; you never know until you try.
Newsflash: it's summer. Well, duh. Many of us in the U.S. are engaging in the usual summer activities--cookouts, yard work, losing weight to fit into summer clothes, taking vacations, and having and attending yard (or garage) sales. In summer, we eat lighter and try to be lighter. That can mean everything from weighing less physically, to feeling "lighter" emotionally, to getting rid of excess "stuff" in our houses.
I've written before about some of my job searching issues and how I've had to cling to God to get me through some tough times. It's true now, it has been true before, and it will be true forever that we can cast our cares on God because He loves us. (As I noted in my June 6 post but that bears repeating). In short, we can "lighten up" in summer, fall, winter, and spring.
Newsflash: it's summer. Well, duh. Many of us in the U.S. are engaging in the usual summer activities--cookouts, yard work, losing weight to fit into summer clothes, taking vacations, and having and attending yard (or garage) sales. In summer, we eat lighter and try to be lighter. That can mean everything from weighing less physically, to feeling "lighter" emotionally, to getting rid of excess "stuff" in our houses.
I've written before about some of my job searching issues and how I've had to cling to God to get me through some tough times. It's true now, it has been true before, and it will be true forever that we can cast our cares on God because He loves us. (As I noted in my June 6 post but that bears repeating). In short, we can "lighten up" in summer, fall, winter, and spring.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
The Payoff
Never give up; you never know until you try.
I met a young woman a few months ago and took a few minutes to learn about her life. She looked "down," so I shared a few words of encouragement. My time investment was just a few minutes, and each time I've seen her since, I've dedicated a few minutes to asking how she is and encouraging her. She always seems to have only a few minutes to talk, but we pass those minutes pleasantly. Despite her circumstances, she's "open" and interested in others, always asking how I am.
We crossed paths again today, and she broke into a big grin when she saw me. We passed a little time together, catching up on our respective job searches, and she was off again on another errand. She caught me off guard by hugging me, but it was a pleasant surprise. I was glad she felt comfortable doing so; she's learned that I really care what happens to her. I hit the jackpot.
I'm sure you're ahead of me and have surmised the moral of today's story: kindness extended to others pays off. Even if someone never lets you know by hugging you or verbally expressing it, she appreciates being treated kindly, respectfully. I certainly do. Kindness pays off, making others' day brighter, and it even makes yours brighter, too.
I met a young woman a few months ago and took a few minutes to learn about her life. She looked "down," so I shared a few words of encouragement. My time investment was just a few minutes, and each time I've seen her since, I've dedicated a few minutes to asking how she is and encouraging her. She always seems to have only a few minutes to talk, but we pass those minutes pleasantly. Despite her circumstances, she's "open" and interested in others, always asking how I am.
We crossed paths again today, and she broke into a big grin when she saw me. We passed a little time together, catching up on our respective job searches, and she was off again on another errand. She caught me off guard by hugging me, but it was a pleasant surprise. I was glad she felt comfortable doing so; she's learned that I really care what happens to her. I hit the jackpot.
I'm sure you're ahead of me and have surmised the moral of today's story: kindness extended to others pays off. Even if someone never lets you know by hugging you or verbally expressing it, she appreciates being treated kindly, respectfully. I certainly do. Kindness pays off, making others' day brighter, and it even makes yours brighter, too.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
S-T-R-E-T-C-H-I-N-G
Never give up; you never know until you try.
Recently, I've encountered several situations outside my comfort zone. I've intentionally put myself into those situations; and guess what? I've survived! Like using our physical muscles, we may be a bit sore afterward, but for me the recent episodes have resulted in a pleasant soreness.
Like the soreness after a workout, with increased effort, discomfort of being outside the familiar soon dissipates and disappears entirely as the unfamiliar becomes familiar. The zone of discomfort becomes the zone of comfort. Then it's time to s-t-r-e-t-c-h- again (if we want to continue progressing, growing stronger.)
So stretch on, readers! Today you may manage to lift only 10 pounds, but with persistence, you'll soon be amazing even yourself with your strength. And always remember--God is on your side and will help you.
Recently, I've encountered several situations outside my comfort zone. I've intentionally put myself into those situations; and guess what? I've survived! Like using our physical muscles, we may be a bit sore afterward, but for me the recent episodes have resulted in a pleasant soreness.
Like the soreness after a workout, with increased effort, discomfort of being outside the familiar soon dissipates and disappears entirely as the unfamiliar becomes familiar. The zone of discomfort becomes the zone of comfort. Then it's time to s-t-r-e-t-c-h- again (if we want to continue progressing, growing stronger.)
So stretch on, readers! Today you may manage to lift only 10 pounds, but with persistence, you'll soon be amazing even yourself with your strength. And always remember--God is on your side and will help you.
Monday, June 6, 2011
What Do You Do?
Never give up; you never know until you try.
What do you do when you’ve done all you know to do, yet a situation remains the same? It absolutely refuses to budge. Like a car mired in mud, you can’t go backward, and you can’t go forward. You spin your wheels, burning rubber, gas, and your patience.
As anyone who has read my blog knows, that’s been me in my job search post-graduation. I’ve had a couple part-time temporary jobs, but I’m still searching for the full-time permanent one, even if it isn’t my dream job. I just need to pay my bills.
As I’ve noted before, this has been an excruciating process for me, and I’ve handled it with varying degrees of poise. God has met my needs and kept me going, though not in ways I’d hoped. Again, as I’ve noted before, I’ve often told Him just how I feel, and He hasn’t zapped me yet for having the nerve to tell Him how I want Him to do His job. God is great like that. (Insert huge sigh of relief here.)
So I come to the answer portion of this post. What do you do when you’ve done all you know to do, yet a situation remains the same? Maybe what I’ve done:
1 If one area refuses to change, work on changing something else you are unhappy with.
2 Embrace the changes being wrought in you—at least the good ones.
3 Cast it on God, because He cares for you.
What do you do when you’ve done all you know to do, yet a situation remains the same? It absolutely refuses to budge. Like a car mired in mud, you can’t go backward, and you can’t go forward. You spin your wheels, burning rubber, gas, and your patience.
As anyone who has read my blog knows, that’s been me in my job search post-graduation. I’ve had a couple part-time temporary jobs, but I’m still searching for the full-time permanent one, even if it isn’t my dream job. I just need to pay my bills.
As I’ve noted before, this has been an excruciating process for me, and I’ve handled it with varying degrees of poise. God has met my needs and kept me going, though not in ways I’d hoped. Again, as I’ve noted before, I’ve often told Him just how I feel, and He hasn’t zapped me yet for having the nerve to tell Him how I want Him to do His job. God is great like that. (Insert huge sigh of relief here.)
So I come to the answer portion of this post. What do you do when you’ve done all you know to do, yet a situation remains the same? Maybe what I’ve done:
1 If one area refuses to change, work on changing something else you are unhappy with.
2 Embrace the changes being wrought in you—at least the good ones.
3 Cast it on God, because He cares for you.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Friendship
Never give up; you never know until you try.
I've thought a lot about friendship this week. I do that every now and then, taking time to thank God for people who have meant so much to me at various times in my life. I also ask Him to help me be a real friend, which doesn’t always come easily.
Sorry to burst your bubble if you had any illusions to the contrary, but sometimes friendship isn't easy. It asks us to trust, to believe, to give. It asks us to take. For some of us, at some times, those aren’t easy things to do. Yet in the end, the momentary discomfort is more than worth it. It’s sad but true that friendships come and go as people change, but hopefully we wish everyone well whom we ever call “friend.”
I’ve probably had friendship on my mind so much because I’ve met new people recently and learned more about existing acquaintances, making me more aware of how wonderful it is to have friends and how fulfilling it is to be one.
So, dear readers, I take this opportunity to thank you for your time and indulgence. To my friends, past and present, I thank you more than you know for your love and patience, and for what you taught me, because I’ve learned something from every one of you. To my future friends, I say another “thank you,” because God and friends make life worthwhile. I also challenge everyone to thank your friends for being there for you and to emphasize to them your willingness to be there for them.
I've thought a lot about friendship this week. I do that every now and then, taking time to thank God for people who have meant so much to me at various times in my life. I also ask Him to help me be a real friend, which doesn’t always come easily.
Sorry to burst your bubble if you had any illusions to the contrary, but sometimes friendship isn't easy. It asks us to trust, to believe, to give. It asks us to take. For some of us, at some times, those aren’t easy things to do. Yet in the end, the momentary discomfort is more than worth it. It’s sad but true that friendships come and go as people change, but hopefully we wish everyone well whom we ever call “friend.”
I’ve probably had friendship on my mind so much because I’ve met new people recently and learned more about existing acquaintances, making me more aware of how wonderful it is to have friends and how fulfilling it is to be one.
So, dear readers, I take this opportunity to thank you for your time and indulgence. To my friends, past and present, I thank you more than you know for your love and patience, and for what you taught me, because I’ve learned something from every one of you. To my future friends, I say another “thank you,” because God and friends make life worthwhile. I also challenge everyone to thank your friends for being there for you and to emphasize to them your willingness to be there for them.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Encouragement and Hope
Never give up; you never know until you try.
I recently attended a job fair and experienced something remarkable. Despite the economic crunch and the fact that there were hundreds in attendance, vying for fewer jobs than there were people, the atmosphere was one of hope. People were polite to each other. They'd better be, you say, since potential employers were watching, but I have seen people behaving less than their best in similar situations. Desperation can do that to people, yet at this job fair, people encouraged each other. There was no air of desperation that I noticed. I came away feeling encouraged and hopeful, which is the opposite of how job fairs can make a person feel. As I said, it was remarkable.
So chin up, fellow job seekers! Many may still be out of work and following up on any lead they get, dreading the next job fair, but my experience proves that a job fair can actually be an uplifting experience. Who knew?
I recently attended a job fair and experienced something remarkable. Despite the economic crunch and the fact that there were hundreds in attendance, vying for fewer jobs than there were people, the atmosphere was one of hope. People were polite to each other. They'd better be, you say, since potential employers were watching, but I have seen people behaving less than their best in similar situations. Desperation can do that to people, yet at this job fair, people encouraged each other. There was no air of desperation that I noticed. I came away feeling encouraged and hopeful, which is the opposite of how job fairs can make a person feel. As I said, it was remarkable.
So chin up, fellow job seekers! Many may still be out of work and following up on any lead they get, dreading the next job fair, but my experience proves that a job fair can actually be an uplifting experience. Who knew?
Monday, April 25, 2011
Resurrection Power
Never give up; you never know until you try.
The last few days, I’ve thought a lot about various lessons I’ve heard or read on the resurrection of Jesus. The gist of them is that while we may experience the death of our earthly bodies, because Jesus conquered death, we who trust Him as Savior will receive new bodies and live forever with Him in Heaven, completely forgiven of any and all sins. All pain will be gone. A life of love and peace will be ours forever. I’m looking forward to that.
For now, though, I’m stuck here on earth, where pain is everywhere. Very little makes sense. Every day I see right being called wrong and wrong being called right. Romans 8:22 says that all creation groans. I believe it.
Our salvation is based on Jesus’ bodily resurrection from the dead after paying the penalty for our sins, but I’ve heard various ministers talk about a different form of resurrection than the resurrection of the body. I think that’s an important area to cover, too. What they mean is that Christ can resurrect our hopes and dreams when they seem to have died. He can give us new hopes and dreams that are eons better than the old ones. And He can make those dreams, old, new, or in-between, come to pass.
He can also resurrect a good attitude in us (and forgive us) when we get pouty that things aren’t going our way. I’m really glad of that, because all of us have needed an attitude adjustment at one time or another. And Jesus has the power to do it if we let Him.
The last few days, I’ve thought a lot about various lessons I’ve heard or read on the resurrection of Jesus. The gist of them is that while we may experience the death of our earthly bodies, because Jesus conquered death, we who trust Him as Savior will receive new bodies and live forever with Him in Heaven, completely forgiven of any and all sins. All pain will be gone. A life of love and peace will be ours forever. I’m looking forward to that.
For now, though, I’m stuck here on earth, where pain is everywhere. Very little makes sense. Every day I see right being called wrong and wrong being called right. Romans 8:22 says that all creation groans. I believe it.
Our salvation is based on Jesus’ bodily resurrection from the dead after paying the penalty for our sins, but I’ve heard various ministers talk about a different form of resurrection than the resurrection of the body. I think that’s an important area to cover, too. What they mean is that Christ can resurrect our hopes and dreams when they seem to have died. He can give us new hopes and dreams that are eons better than the old ones. And He can make those dreams, old, new, or in-between, come to pass.
He can also resurrect a good attitude in us (and forgive us) when we get pouty that things aren’t going our way. I’m really glad of that, because all of us have needed an attitude adjustment at one time or another. And Jesus has the power to do it if we let Him.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Frustration and Trust
Never give up; you never know until you try.
When the 4-month internship I was supposed to have had fell through, I had to pick myself back up, because I'd gotten knocked down--again, dust myself off, and resume an all-out job search.
As I've noted in previous posts the last year and few months, it's very frustrating looking for a job in this market. That information doesn't surprise anyone. What has surprised me is that job requirements and pay ranges make absolutely no sense at all. How can a zillion positions pay barely above minimum wage and require a college degree, yet a position I ran across today, doing more technical, complicated, skilled work, require only a high school diploma and pay in the 30's, with benefits?! As I said, it makes absolutely no sense whatsoever.
What I did upon seeing the above-mentioned vacancy ad was completely warranted, I think: I literally threw back my head and groaned, "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! What do they want? Help me, Lord, get through this!"
One thing that helps me get through is rereading journal entries and meditating on times when God has gotten me through painful circumstances. I was rereading a journal entry from last fall and noted that one of the worship leaders in a service had said something I found very helpful: the answer to any question is "I AM." When life makes sense (although I've never found anything in life that really made sense), there is God. When life doesn't make sense, there is God. He is. He always was. He always will be.
I'll admit that my faith has been sorely tested pretty much my whole life, through literally major crisis to major crisis, and now I'm just having to trust God that He will help me deal with the frustration over dealing with nonsensical hiring requirements and pay ranges and help me get to the right place. I hope it's a place I'll want to be in, but if it's not, which is often the case in life, I'll have to remember those comforting words: "I AM."
When the 4-month internship I was supposed to have had fell through, I had to pick myself back up, because I'd gotten knocked down--again, dust myself off, and resume an all-out job search.
As I've noted in previous posts the last year and few months, it's very frustrating looking for a job in this market. That information doesn't surprise anyone. What has surprised me is that job requirements and pay ranges make absolutely no sense at all. How can a zillion positions pay barely above minimum wage and require a college degree, yet a position I ran across today, doing more technical, complicated, skilled work, require only a high school diploma and pay in the 30's, with benefits?! As I said, it makes absolutely no sense whatsoever.
What I did upon seeing the above-mentioned vacancy ad was completely warranted, I think: I literally threw back my head and groaned, "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! What do they want? Help me, Lord, get through this!"
One thing that helps me get through is rereading journal entries and meditating on times when God has gotten me through painful circumstances. I was rereading a journal entry from last fall and noted that one of the worship leaders in a service had said something I found very helpful: the answer to any question is "I AM." When life makes sense (although I've never found anything in life that really made sense), there is God. When life doesn't make sense, there is God. He is. He always was. He always will be.
I'll admit that my faith has been sorely tested pretty much my whole life, through literally major crisis to major crisis, and now I'm just having to trust God that He will help me deal with the frustration over dealing with nonsensical hiring requirements and pay ranges and help me get to the right place. I hope it's a place I'll want to be in, but if it's not, which is often the case in life, I'll have to remember those comforting words: "I AM."
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Take Care of You
Never give up; you never know until you try.
I know the title of this post is bad grammar, but that just draws attention to the message. For those who have seen the Richard Gere movie “Pretty Woman,” you might recognize the admonition as the one “Kit” and “Vivian” exchange when they’re saying goodbye to each other, whether it’s for a “date” or at the end of the movie, when “Vivian” decides to leave Hollywood and her life of prostitution behind and start over in San Francisco.
Why am I bringing it up, you may ask? There are 2 reasons:
• I got a reminder of it myself at a seminar Tuesday night.
• I think we all need periodic reminders.
Because:
• We often don’t do it.
Life comes at us fast. That’s such a “given” that it’s now an insurance company slogan. We all do so much, for so many people, that there’s often nothing left for us. We’re stressed out, burned out, and if it continues, tuned out, because we can’t go on full-throttle forever. Something gives, and it can easily be our bodies and/or our minds that just quit on us because we’ve demanded so much of them. Too much.
I’ve written about this before: we don’t expect cars to go without gas, but we expect ourselves to go without proper rest, nutrition, recreation, and spiritual support. We shouldn’t expect anything--our cars,and even more--our bodies, minds, and souls to keep going like a certain battery’s bunny mascot.
Remember Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, which I’ve talked about, as well. Without the basics of security, we can’t reach our full potential. With a horrible economy and unemployment rates in the stratosphere, many people’s basic security is threatened to begin with. Many are homeless or living hand-to-mouth, wondering if they’ll be homeless in a month, or 2, or 3. Many don’t have health insurance, reliable transportation, or any of the many things so many people take for granted.
That’s why it’s extra important to do what we can to take care of ourselves. So, to the best of your ability, I ask everyone to:
• Consume the most nutritious food and beverages you can, in healthful amounts.
• Get proper healthcare, including mental health if necessary. Depression is real, and there’s no shame in needing help with it, any more than there’s shame in having a broken leg set.
• Get proper rest.
• Exercise every day, even if it’s a 10-minute walk. The endorphins will boost your mood and help you rest better.
• Seek God—He’ll meet you where you are. You don’t have to get all polished up first.
• Spend time talking and/or playing with friends. Make new ones when you can.
• Find a hobby or other leisure activity you enjoy and make sure you put it into your schedule.
• Avoid placing blame. Just do what you can to “take care of you.”
I know the title of this post is bad grammar, but that just draws attention to the message. For those who have seen the Richard Gere movie “Pretty Woman,” you might recognize the admonition as the one “Kit” and “Vivian” exchange when they’re saying goodbye to each other, whether it’s for a “date” or at the end of the movie, when “Vivian” decides to leave Hollywood and her life of prostitution behind and start over in San Francisco.
Why am I bringing it up, you may ask? There are 2 reasons:
• I got a reminder of it myself at a seminar Tuesday night.
• I think we all need periodic reminders.
Because:
• We often don’t do it.
Life comes at us fast. That’s such a “given” that it’s now an insurance company slogan. We all do so much, for so many people, that there’s often nothing left for us. We’re stressed out, burned out, and if it continues, tuned out, because we can’t go on full-throttle forever. Something gives, and it can easily be our bodies and/or our minds that just quit on us because we’ve demanded so much of them. Too much.
I’ve written about this before: we don’t expect cars to go without gas, but we expect ourselves to go without proper rest, nutrition, recreation, and spiritual support. We shouldn’t expect anything--our cars,and even more--our bodies, minds, and souls to keep going like a certain battery’s bunny mascot.
Remember Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, which I’ve talked about, as well. Without the basics of security, we can’t reach our full potential. With a horrible economy and unemployment rates in the stratosphere, many people’s basic security is threatened to begin with. Many are homeless or living hand-to-mouth, wondering if they’ll be homeless in a month, or 2, or 3. Many don’t have health insurance, reliable transportation, or any of the many things so many people take for granted.
That’s why it’s extra important to do what we can to take care of ourselves. So, to the best of your ability, I ask everyone to:
• Consume the most nutritious food and beverages you can, in healthful amounts.
• Get proper healthcare, including mental health if necessary. Depression is real, and there’s no shame in needing help with it, any more than there’s shame in having a broken leg set.
• Get proper rest.
• Exercise every day, even if it’s a 10-minute walk. The endorphins will boost your mood and help you rest better.
• Seek God—He’ll meet you where you are. You don’t have to get all polished up first.
• Spend time talking and/or playing with friends. Make new ones when you can.
• Find a hobby or other leisure activity you enjoy and make sure you put it into your schedule.
• Avoid placing blame. Just do what you can to “take care of you.”
Sunday, April 3, 2011
She Speaks conference
Never give up; you never know until you try.
The annual Proverbs 31 Ministries "She Speaks" conference is coming up. I've attended Proverbs 31 Ministries conferences in the past and been blessed by the experience in more ways than I can count. Check it out if you're interested in writing, or if you just like to read inspirational writing. The Proverbs 31 ministry has been extremely helpful to me.
They're holding a contest, and the winner can attend the conference free of charge. Naturally, I'd love to go. My entry for the contest, which calls for a 6-word story, along the lines of Hemingway's "For sale. Baby shoes. Never worn." After mulling that over for 3 days, I came up with the following prayer to God: "You're God. I'm not. I surrender." I'll let you know if my entry is chosen. The link to the conference is http://shespeaksconference.com.
(I tried 3 times to use the Blogger link tool to post the actual link, but it never worked. So sorry.)
The prayer I cite above is a prayer many people probably have to pray daily as they crucify the flesh that wants to have its way. I know I certainly have to pray a version of it every day.
Whether it's the Serenity Prayer, the one I just noted, or another, my advice for the day is to keep on praying. I've seen and heard the acrostic "PUSH" several times, and I've taken it to heart. It stands for Pray Until Something Happens. Sometimes that means the problem remains, but you have peace as you move through it.
As I’ve navigated my employment situation since graduation, I’ve prayed many times for the problem to go away, and I’ve also prayed, “Lord, just give me peace.” Jesus said He was giving us His peace, and that promise has kept me going when I was near the end of my rope.
So, dear readers, check out Proverbs 31 Ministries. It’s a valuable resource.
The annual Proverbs 31 Ministries "She Speaks" conference is coming up. I've attended Proverbs 31 Ministries conferences in the past and been blessed by the experience in more ways than I can count. Check it out if you're interested in writing, or if you just like to read inspirational writing. The Proverbs 31 ministry has been extremely helpful to me.
They're holding a contest, and the winner can attend the conference free of charge. Naturally, I'd love to go. My entry for the contest, which calls for a 6-word story, along the lines of Hemingway's "For sale. Baby shoes. Never worn." After mulling that over for 3 days, I came up with the following prayer to God: "You're God. I'm not. I surrender." I'll let you know if my entry is chosen. The link to the conference is http://shespeaksconference.com.
(I tried 3 times to use the Blogger link tool to post the actual link, but it never worked. So sorry.)
The prayer I cite above is a prayer many people probably have to pray daily as they crucify the flesh that wants to have its way. I know I certainly have to pray a version of it every day.
Whether it's the Serenity Prayer, the one I just noted, or another, my advice for the day is to keep on praying. I've seen and heard the acrostic "PUSH" several times, and I've taken it to heart. It stands for Pray Until Something Happens. Sometimes that means the problem remains, but you have peace as you move through it.
As I’ve navigated my employment situation since graduation, I’ve prayed many times for the problem to go away, and I’ve also prayed, “Lord, just give me peace.” Jesus said He was giving us His peace, and that promise has kept me going when I was near the end of my rope.
So, dear readers, check out Proverbs 31 Ministries. It’s a valuable resource.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Do It Today; Tomorrow May Be Too Late
Never give up; you never know until you try.
Tuesday afternoon I attended the funeral of a dear friend’s mother. Like many people on such occasions, I cried. I was sitting in the pew beside my own aging mother.
Afterward, as I talked with various members of the bereaved family, bits of several conversations reached my ears—typical things you hear at funerals: “It’s been so long since I saw you; don’t let it be so long next time,” and “I wish I’d gone to see her like I planned to do, but I’ve been so busy.”
I got another reminder that it’s super-important to “stop and smell the roses,” to visit, to call, to “mend fences,” to extend love, grace, and mercy--today. In short, it’s super-important to live like there’s no tomorrow, because one of these days, there won’t be. And even if there is a “tomorrow,” you or your loved one may be too sick to enjoy it.
So, dear readers, I implore us all to heed this reminder. Accept God’s grace and mercy today. Accept apologies today. Give apologies today. Live today.
Tuesday afternoon I attended the funeral of a dear friend’s mother. Like many people on such occasions, I cried. I was sitting in the pew beside my own aging mother.
Afterward, as I talked with various members of the bereaved family, bits of several conversations reached my ears—typical things you hear at funerals: “It’s been so long since I saw you; don’t let it be so long next time,” and “I wish I’d gone to see her like I planned to do, but I’ve been so busy.”
I got another reminder that it’s super-important to “stop and smell the roses,” to visit, to call, to “mend fences,” to extend love, grace, and mercy--today. In short, it’s super-important to live like there’s no tomorrow, because one of these days, there won’t be. And even if there is a “tomorrow,” you or your loved one may be too sick to enjoy it.
So, dear readers, I implore us all to heed this reminder. Accept God’s grace and mercy today. Accept apologies today. Give apologies today. Live today.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
A Work in Progress
Never give up; you never know until you try.
I've had an incredible week, trying to get things in order to start an internship next week. I'm still sorting out lots of things, including conflicting emotions. I'm so glad that God can make sense of things, because sometimes I certainly can't.
The title of this post means several things: as we all are, I'm a work in progress; my job situation is a work in progress; the post I had planned for this week is a work in progress. Since the planned post is still being hashed out and I didn't want to let another week go by without saying something to my readers, what I came up with is what you're reading now--an honest disclosure that I'm running around like the headless chicken. Again, I'm glad that God can make sense of things.
So my sage advice for now is: cut yourself some slack if you find yourself running crazed in a thousand directions, physically or emotionally. Know that even if you can't, God can make sense of it all.
I've had an incredible week, trying to get things in order to start an internship next week. I'm still sorting out lots of things, including conflicting emotions. I'm so glad that God can make sense of things, because sometimes I certainly can't.
The title of this post means several things: as we all are, I'm a work in progress; my job situation is a work in progress; the post I had planned for this week is a work in progress. Since the planned post is still being hashed out and I didn't want to let another week go by without saying something to my readers, what I came up with is what you're reading now--an honest disclosure that I'm running around like the headless chicken. Again, I'm glad that God can make sense of things.
So my sage advice for now is: cut yourself some slack if you find yourself running crazed in a thousand directions, physically or emotionally. Know that even if you can't, God can make sense of it all.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Seminar on Change
Never give up; you never know until you try.
I recently attended a seminar on dealing with change. It’s been said that the only sure things are death and taxes, and I’ve written before that I’d add to that list God’s unfailing love and that dreaded thing called change. (You know I don't mean pennies, either!)
Since most of us don’t like change, to put it mildly, I expected the seminar to be packed. I was surprised that it wasn’t, but on further reflection, it makes sense. Many people hate and dread change so much that they don’t even want to think about it—not even if thinking about it may help them deal with it more effectively and less painfully.
Change is scary, even if the change is a positive one. I’ve often thought about how even though I may despise a certain circumstance, at least I’ve developed a way of dealing with it if it has continued for any length of time. Unfortunately, not every coping mechanism is a positive one, serving me well, making my life better. That’s when I need to change my focus or actions—even both; lots of times, changing focus results in changing actions.
And that was really the gist of the seminar: change is a necessary, inevitable part of life. Sometimes we have to change because old ways aren’t serving us, and sometimes change is thrust on us by others, so we need to learn to deal with it in positive ways. It was an encouraging refresher course for me, so I’ll share a few tidbits that we covered.
Recognize that change happens. Don’t fight it; accept it. Don’t just bury your head in the sand. Don't refuse to face it (or, really, avoid facing it) by drinking, taking drugs, working too hard, etcetera. Ingesting substances or immersing yourself in work may seem to work in the short-term, but it doesn’t in the long-term.
Don’t beat yourself up because you resist change. We’re all wired to resist change. (The presenter covered some psychological research that proves it.)
Knowledge is power. Knowing how your personality type responds to change (or anything else) can help you cope better. I encourage everyone to invest the time to take a respected personality test, such as Myers-Briggs, to get to know yourself better. That way you can have a go-to plan to handle change when it arises.
Make sure that go-to plan moves your life in a positive direction. If not, change it, with outside help if necessary. (Yes, I’m aware that I used that dreaded “C” word there!)
Recognize that others have their own ways of dealing with change, which may be radically different than yours. Allow them that right.
That’s my take-away from the seminar. The program was a couple hours long, and the Serenity Prayer came to my mind several times. I still think it’s a great, helpful prayer that basically says to be calm, accept what you can’t change, change what you can, and know the difference between the two. As the speaker pointed out, it’s not in human nature to be calm when faced with change, so it seems only logical to me that I need to ask God for help. He made me, so He can and will help me if I just humble myself and ask.
I recently attended a seminar on dealing with change. It’s been said that the only sure things are death and taxes, and I’ve written before that I’d add to that list God’s unfailing love and that dreaded thing called change. (You know I don't mean pennies, either!)
Since most of us don’t like change, to put it mildly, I expected the seminar to be packed. I was surprised that it wasn’t, but on further reflection, it makes sense. Many people hate and dread change so much that they don’t even want to think about it—not even if thinking about it may help them deal with it more effectively and less painfully.
Change is scary, even if the change is a positive one. I’ve often thought about how even though I may despise a certain circumstance, at least I’ve developed a way of dealing with it if it has continued for any length of time. Unfortunately, not every coping mechanism is a positive one, serving me well, making my life better. That’s when I need to change my focus or actions—even both; lots of times, changing focus results in changing actions.
And that was really the gist of the seminar: change is a necessary, inevitable part of life. Sometimes we have to change because old ways aren’t serving us, and sometimes change is thrust on us by others, so we need to learn to deal with it in positive ways. It was an encouraging refresher course for me, so I’ll share a few tidbits that we covered.
Recognize that change happens. Don’t fight it; accept it. Don’t just bury your head in the sand. Don't refuse to face it (or, really, avoid facing it) by drinking, taking drugs, working too hard, etcetera. Ingesting substances or immersing yourself in work may seem to work in the short-term, but it doesn’t in the long-term.
Don’t beat yourself up because you resist change. We’re all wired to resist change. (The presenter covered some psychological research that proves it.)
Knowledge is power. Knowing how your personality type responds to change (or anything else) can help you cope better. I encourage everyone to invest the time to take a respected personality test, such as Myers-Briggs, to get to know yourself better. That way you can have a go-to plan to handle change when it arises.
Make sure that go-to plan moves your life in a positive direction. If not, change it, with outside help if necessary. (Yes, I’m aware that I used that dreaded “C” word there!)
Recognize that others have their own ways of dealing with change, which may be radically different than yours. Allow them that right.
That’s my take-away from the seminar. The program was a couple hours long, and the Serenity Prayer came to my mind several times. I still think it’s a great, helpful prayer that basically says to be calm, accept what you can’t change, change what you can, and know the difference between the two. As the speaker pointed out, it’s not in human nature to be calm when faced with change, so it seems only logical to me that I need to ask God for help. He made me, so He can and will help me if I just humble myself and ask.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Job Hunting: A Political Jab, Lessons in Phraseology, Etc.
Never give up; you never know until you try.
As I’ve written so much about this last year, I’ve been looking for a job. It’s an activity that can kill the strongest person, and I’ll freely admit that I’ve cried many tears of frustration and anger over the whole thing, because there don’t seem to be any rules. A + B is supposed to equal C. In the current economy, it doesn’t. There seems to be little that makes sense. Still, I’ve tried to keep my sense of humor, and that’s why I’ve been able to keep my sanity. I’ve seen some really strange job titles and descriptions and gleaned a little wisdom from interviews and things I’ve heard in passing. Here are a few. Maybe you'll find them as funny as I do:
Not too long ago, I came across an ad in an online job board for a “Pain Sales Specialist.” My curiosity got the better of me, and I clicked onto it and discovered that it was for a job with a pharmaceutical company, but the ad never came right out and said exactly what the job entailed—why it was called what it was. It sounded to me as if it could’ve involved working for the Marquis de Sade; or maybe it was a government job? Am I being redundant there?
I thought that one was odd—until I read the one for “Sales Representative—BS.” Clicking onto the ad, I learned that the job required a Bachelor's degree, but it didn’t specify whether it was Bachelor of Arts or Sciences. Since the “BS” didn’t refer to the educational requirement, does that mean that the salesperson would be selling “BS,” that oft-flung substance? Maybe that, too, was a government job.
Then there was one that started off “Can you sell the President?” Yes, it was a sales job calling for someone who was so good at sales that they could sell to someone really “important” or something. I’m guessing that one was aimed at people who, upset over the current economy, blame the President and would like very much to sell him to someone. Though to be fair, the President doesn’t create—or fix—disasters alone.
I could tell right away that the above-mentioned jobs weren’t for me. Sometimes the words in an ad are a dead giveaway that you don’t want to go there, but you can’t always tell. Sometimes everything reads right and sounds like something you might want to pursue. You apply and even get interviewed. That’s the time to keep your eyes and ears open, because there are verbal cues that let you know you really don’t want a job, unless you’re completely desperate, crazy, or something. I’ve had some most unwelcome surprises. Be on the lookout for things like:
“This isn’t really a job; it’s really a ministry.” I’ve heard this said of daycare workers and public school teachers, but it can apply anywhere. Translation: Your reward is NOT financial; you’ll be paid the bare minimum, probably with no benefits of any kind, and you’ll be doing the work of at least two people. You may receive heart-felt “thank-you’s” and little useless trinkets at Christmas.
“You must have a good work ethic and a positive attitude.” (This is often seen in job ads but they may omit it to sucker you in and hit you with it during the interview process.) This one is obvious—it means that you’ll work like a dog and be expected to smile and make nice even when you have irate customers or crazy supervisors yelling (possibly obscenities) at you. And you won't be paid squat.
My last observation is very similar. If you get to the office and there are posters everywhere reminding you to smile, or there is the same instruction in your employee manual or other paperwork, that’s a pretty good indication that you won’t feel like smiling if you work at that particular company. People who are happy don’t have to be reminded to smile.
I’m glad that God is still my source and not the "fat cats" who seem out to get everything for themselves. With that in mind, I can at least smile through my tears.
As I’ve written so much about this last year, I’ve been looking for a job. It’s an activity that can kill the strongest person, and I’ll freely admit that I’ve cried many tears of frustration and anger over the whole thing, because there don’t seem to be any rules. A + B is supposed to equal C. In the current economy, it doesn’t. There seems to be little that makes sense. Still, I’ve tried to keep my sense of humor, and that’s why I’ve been able to keep my sanity. I’ve seen some really strange job titles and descriptions and gleaned a little wisdom from interviews and things I’ve heard in passing. Here are a few. Maybe you'll find them as funny as I do:
Not too long ago, I came across an ad in an online job board for a “Pain Sales Specialist.” My curiosity got the better of me, and I clicked onto it and discovered that it was for a job with a pharmaceutical company, but the ad never came right out and said exactly what the job entailed—why it was called what it was. It sounded to me as if it could’ve involved working for the Marquis de Sade; or maybe it was a government job? Am I being redundant there?
I thought that one was odd—until I read the one for “Sales Representative—BS.” Clicking onto the ad, I learned that the job required a Bachelor's degree, but it didn’t specify whether it was Bachelor of Arts or Sciences. Since the “BS” didn’t refer to the educational requirement, does that mean that the salesperson would be selling “BS,” that oft-flung substance? Maybe that, too, was a government job.
Then there was one that started off “Can you sell the President?” Yes, it was a sales job calling for someone who was so good at sales that they could sell to someone really “important” or something. I’m guessing that one was aimed at people who, upset over the current economy, blame the President and would like very much to sell him to someone. Though to be fair, the President doesn’t create—or fix—disasters alone.
I could tell right away that the above-mentioned jobs weren’t for me. Sometimes the words in an ad are a dead giveaway that you don’t want to go there, but you can’t always tell. Sometimes everything reads right and sounds like something you might want to pursue. You apply and even get interviewed. That’s the time to keep your eyes and ears open, because there are verbal cues that let you know you really don’t want a job, unless you’re completely desperate, crazy, or something. I’ve had some most unwelcome surprises. Be on the lookout for things like:
“This isn’t really a job; it’s really a ministry.” I’ve heard this said of daycare workers and public school teachers, but it can apply anywhere. Translation: Your reward is NOT financial; you’ll be paid the bare minimum, probably with no benefits of any kind, and you’ll be doing the work of at least two people. You may receive heart-felt “thank-you’s” and little useless trinkets at Christmas.
“You must have a good work ethic and a positive attitude.” (This is often seen in job ads but they may omit it to sucker you in and hit you with it during the interview process.) This one is obvious—it means that you’ll work like a dog and be expected to smile and make nice even when you have irate customers or crazy supervisors yelling (possibly obscenities) at you. And you won't be paid squat.
My last observation is very similar. If you get to the office and there are posters everywhere reminding you to smile, or there is the same instruction in your employee manual or other paperwork, that’s a pretty good indication that you won’t feel like smiling if you work at that particular company. People who are happy don’t have to be reminded to smile.
I’m glad that God is still my source and not the "fat cats" who seem out to get everything for themselves. With that in mind, I can at least smile through my tears.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
To Thine Own Self Be True: A Reminder
Never give up; you never know until you try.
Be yourself. That’s one major refresher lesson I took away from the seminar I attended Tuesday night. My guess is that it’s probably something the speaker didn’t even think about as a take-away when she conceived or presented the seminar.
Be myself? Who else would I be? Who else would I want to be? The answer for me is, “No one.” For some people, though, the answer might be something like, “I want to be Julia Roberts.” Or Justin Bieber. While I can understand wanting to exhibit another person’s characteristics or wanting to have more money, I can honestly say that I don’t want to be anyone else. Jacline isn’t perfect, but God made Jacline for a special purpose. Please, feel free to put your name into that sentence and repeat it to yourself.
Scripture tells us that God made us different for a reason. (I Corinthians 12). I think that means that we should make the most of what we’re given and go about our business. Don’t be arrogant; but don’t apologize, either, for being who you feel God made you to be. (As long as what you feel God made you to be doesn't contradict Scripture.) You don’t necessarily have to explain yourself. You have certain preferences. Be flexible, willing to hear other views, but allow yourself to have your own preferences and don’t let anyone bully you into changing. Or even try to bully you into changing.
To illustrate, I’ll tell you something about the presenter Tuesday night. She’s “billed” with a first initial, a middle name, and a last name. Most of us are used to people using a first and last name and maybe a middle initial. Maybe the speaker from Tuesday’s seminar doesn’t like her first name, but for whatever reason, she never divulged her first name. When someone asked what the initial stood for, she simply said, “(It stands for) my first name.” No explanations. No apologies. I inwardly applauded her for not caving in to the expectation to provide her first name or the reason she uses only her first initial. In short, she was true to herself. I admire that, and I’m glad she gave me a little reminder to do the same, even if that wasn’t her intention.
Be yourself. That’s one major refresher lesson I took away from the seminar I attended Tuesday night. My guess is that it’s probably something the speaker didn’t even think about as a take-away when she conceived or presented the seminar.
Be myself? Who else would I be? Who else would I want to be? The answer for me is, “No one.” For some people, though, the answer might be something like, “I want to be Julia Roberts.” Or Justin Bieber. While I can understand wanting to exhibit another person’s characteristics or wanting to have more money, I can honestly say that I don’t want to be anyone else. Jacline isn’t perfect, but God made Jacline for a special purpose. Please, feel free to put your name into that sentence and repeat it to yourself.
Scripture tells us that God made us different for a reason. (I Corinthians 12). I think that means that we should make the most of what we’re given and go about our business. Don’t be arrogant; but don’t apologize, either, for being who you feel God made you to be. (As long as what you feel God made you to be doesn't contradict Scripture.) You don’t necessarily have to explain yourself. You have certain preferences. Be flexible, willing to hear other views, but allow yourself to have your own preferences and don’t let anyone bully you into changing. Or even try to bully you into changing.
To illustrate, I’ll tell you something about the presenter Tuesday night. She’s “billed” with a first initial, a middle name, and a last name. Most of us are used to people using a first and last name and maybe a middle initial. Maybe the speaker from Tuesday’s seminar doesn’t like her first name, but for whatever reason, she never divulged her first name. When someone asked what the initial stood for, she simply said, “(It stands for) my first name.” No explanations. No apologies. I inwardly applauded her for not caving in to the expectation to provide her first name or the reason she uses only her first initial. In short, she was true to herself. I admire that, and I’m glad she gave me a little reminder to do the same, even if that wasn’t her intention.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Time To Stew: Just Keep Stirring
You Never Know Until You Try.
I’ve had so many ideas roaming around in my head today that my words are tripping all over themselves and each other. I wanted to check in today and offer something for my readers to chew on, so I leave you with the idea that there’s some "Brunswick Stew" simmering in the recesses of my psyche. If you don’t know what Brunswick Stew is, Dictionary.com defines it as “a stew made of rabbit or squirrel meat, cooked with onions and other vegetables” or “a similar dish made with chicken.” Dictionary.com states that it originated between 1855 and 1860 in Brunswick County, Virginia.
I’m going to sit tight and allow all these ideas to simmer and see what happens, and I encourage you to do the same if you’ve got ideas germinating in the fertile soil of your mind. Let your imagination roam; see where it leads. Don’t rush it; just enjoy it. That’s what I’m going to do.
I’ll keep you posted on what develops from my stew, and I hope you’ll do the same. Feel free to comment on posts! Tell me what you're thinking. The more the merrier!
I’ve had so many ideas roaming around in my head today that my words are tripping all over themselves and each other. I wanted to check in today and offer something for my readers to chew on, so I leave you with the idea that there’s some "Brunswick Stew" simmering in the recesses of my psyche. If you don’t know what Brunswick Stew is, Dictionary.com defines it as “a stew made of rabbit or squirrel meat, cooked with onions and other vegetables” or “a similar dish made with chicken.” Dictionary.com states that it originated between 1855 and 1860 in Brunswick County, Virginia.
I’m going to sit tight and allow all these ideas to simmer and see what happens, and I encourage you to do the same if you’ve got ideas germinating in the fertile soil of your mind. Let your imagination roam; see where it leads. Don’t rush it; just enjoy it. That’s what I’m going to do.
I’ll keep you posted on what develops from my stew, and I hope you’ll do the same. Feel free to comment on posts! Tell me what you're thinking. The more the merrier!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Love
You Never Know Until You Try.
Today being Valentine’s Day, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about love. I don’t have a “significant other,” but I’ve got people who love me: my parents and friends, and my little kitty person, Raven. The most important, though, is God. He loves us all, as evidenced by His gift of His Son, Jesus. (John 3:16).
God loves us even when we’re not very lovable, and though they may not like us at times, friends and family also love us when we’re less than lovable. I have to admit that I certainly have days wherein I don’t like my own behavior. Like Paul, I sometimes do what I hate and don’t do what I know I should.
I’ve been thinking a lot about the prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi since the first of February, so I thought I’d quote it here to give my readers something to ponder. This version is from http://www.catholic-forum.com/saints/pray0027.htm
Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
“O Divine Master,
Grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.
It’s not all about me; it’s about God and what He would have me do to help others through this life. Focusing on how I can help make others’ lives better is one way I can show love for them—and for God.
Happy Valentine’s Day, everyone!
Today being Valentine’s Day, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about love. I don’t have a “significant other,” but I’ve got people who love me: my parents and friends, and my little kitty person, Raven. The most important, though, is God. He loves us all, as evidenced by His gift of His Son, Jesus. (John 3:16).
God loves us even when we’re not very lovable, and though they may not like us at times, friends and family also love us when we’re less than lovable. I have to admit that I certainly have days wherein I don’t like my own behavior. Like Paul, I sometimes do what I hate and don’t do what I know I should.
I’ve been thinking a lot about the prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi since the first of February, so I thought I’d quote it here to give my readers something to ponder. This version is from http://www.catholic-forum.com/saints/pray0027.htm
Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
“O Divine Master,
Grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.
It’s not all about me; it’s about God and what He would have me do to help others through this life. Focusing on how I can help make others’ lives better is one way I can show love for them—and for God.
Happy Valentine’s Day, everyone!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Letting Go and Letting God (Part 2) Or Don't Freak Out; Reach Out
You Never Know Until You Try.
My apologies that I haven't blogged in a while. When I did part 1 of "Letting Go and Letting God," I had no idea that there would be a part 2, much less a part 3, which there may be. I haven't decided yet. I thought I was on the mend from my bout with “the crud.” Alas, that wasn’t the case. I ended up with a sinus infection, which meant another round of antibiotics. Then I had oral surgery, which had been postponed for 2 weeks while I had “the crud,” last Thursday. I’ve had lots more time on the sidelines. I’ve gotten more sleep and more time just lying in bed thinking of nothing but how much I wanted to be—and feel— well again.
And so here I am, 2 days shy of 5 weeks since this whole saga of sidelining sickness (say that fast 3 times, will you?) began. I’ve had lots of reminders of how much I’m loved: friends have called, sent cards, and brought care packages. The big reminder came last Thursday after my surgery.
I drove myself to and from the procedure 25 miles away, intending to return home, take the prescribed pain medication, and probably sleep until noon the next day. No big deal. But as Steinbeck said, the best laid plans . . . The reality was that I couldn’t seem to stop bleeding, and I was fast succumbing to the sedating effects of the pain medicine. So I did what any other independent middle-aged woman might do—I called my mommy and daddy. After all, it’s scary to discover that you can’t stop bleeding when you live alone and are doped on medicine that’s making you woozy, feeling that you may fall asleep at any moment. I was freaked out, so I reached out.
Thankfully only a few miles separate my house and my parents’ house. Mother picked me up, and I ended up spending the next 2 nights with her and Dad. I finally got the bleeding stopped Thursday night, after a good 6 or 8 applications of damp tea bags to the surgical site, and I guess the adrenaline from my freak-out kept me from conking out until I’d been at my folks’ an hour or more. When I did sleep, though, I was out a good 15 hours or so.
I awoke Friday hung-over but not bleeding or in too much pain. I started bleeding again once, but it didn’t last long. I could’ve gone back home, but my retired parents, Mother especially, were glad to have me around. Since I’d been sick for so long, I hadn’t visited in quite a while, and it turned out to be a good visit, considering. We didn’t do anything major; we just hung out, talking and watching TV. Dad took me home late Saturday afternoon, and we’ve kept in touch by phone since then.
I was glad to have the time with my parents, even under those circumstances. God knew that I would need their assistance, and He gave me the sense to reach out and ask for their help. I wish I could say that I hadn’t freaked out, but at least I reached out too, and I got the help I needed. Ask, and you receive.
My apologies that I haven't blogged in a while. When I did part 1 of "Letting Go and Letting God," I had no idea that there would be a part 2, much less a part 3, which there may be. I haven't decided yet. I thought I was on the mend from my bout with “the crud.” Alas, that wasn’t the case. I ended up with a sinus infection, which meant another round of antibiotics. Then I had oral surgery, which had been postponed for 2 weeks while I had “the crud,” last Thursday. I’ve had lots more time on the sidelines. I’ve gotten more sleep and more time just lying in bed thinking of nothing but how much I wanted to be—and feel— well again.
And so here I am, 2 days shy of 5 weeks since this whole saga of sidelining sickness (say that fast 3 times, will you?) began. I’ve had lots of reminders of how much I’m loved: friends have called, sent cards, and brought care packages. The big reminder came last Thursday after my surgery.
I drove myself to and from the procedure 25 miles away, intending to return home, take the prescribed pain medication, and probably sleep until noon the next day. No big deal. But as Steinbeck said, the best laid plans . . . The reality was that I couldn’t seem to stop bleeding, and I was fast succumbing to the sedating effects of the pain medicine. So I did what any other independent middle-aged woman might do—I called my mommy and daddy. After all, it’s scary to discover that you can’t stop bleeding when you live alone and are doped on medicine that’s making you woozy, feeling that you may fall asleep at any moment. I was freaked out, so I reached out.
Thankfully only a few miles separate my house and my parents’ house. Mother picked me up, and I ended up spending the next 2 nights with her and Dad. I finally got the bleeding stopped Thursday night, after a good 6 or 8 applications of damp tea bags to the surgical site, and I guess the adrenaline from my freak-out kept me from conking out until I’d been at my folks’ an hour or more. When I did sleep, though, I was out a good 15 hours or so.
I awoke Friday hung-over but not bleeding or in too much pain. I started bleeding again once, but it didn’t last long. I could’ve gone back home, but my retired parents, Mother especially, were glad to have me around. Since I’d been sick for so long, I hadn’t visited in quite a while, and it turned out to be a good visit, considering. We didn’t do anything major; we just hung out, talking and watching TV. Dad took me home late Saturday afternoon, and we’ve kept in touch by phone since then.
I was glad to have the time with my parents, even under those circumstances. God knew that I would need their assistance, and He gave me the sense to reach out and ask for their help. I wish I could say that I hadn’t freaked out, but at least I reached out too, and I got the help I needed. Ask, and you receive.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Letting Go and Letting God
You Never Know Until You Try.
Like many people in my area, I've recently been felled by a respiratory bug. Despite a trusty standby antibiotic that usually gets rid of anything that plagues me, I've been fighting "the crud" since January 7. I'm better, but I've still got a long way to go. At least it feels that way. I hope this will be one of those times that the glorious dawn breaks suddenly, wiping away all vestiges of the proverbial dark, stormy night.
As you can imagine, I've put a lot of things on hold, spending most of my time just trying to survive. I've had to put my job search on hold for the most part, relying on the recent footwork I've done to bear fruit. It looks like it may do just that; I'm cautiously optimistic.
During my many hours in bed, some actually awake, I've thought a lot about the fact that I'm having no choice but to put into practice the old adage "Let go and let God." There's nothing like being physically sick and unable to "do (my) part" to remind me that it's really God who makes things happen. He just allows me to do my part--what He's instructed me to do, and hopefully nothing more. He's the real "mover and shaker," not me.
Problems arise when I try to push things in the wrong direction or move too fast or lag behind. Fortunately, He's gracious enough to gently correct my course if I let Him, and He uses all kinds of things to do it. Since everything works together for good if we love Him, that means even sickness. I've been so freaked out lately, about so many things, that I've been praying hard for peace. I'm not saying that He allowed me to get "the crud" to give me peace, taking my mind off my financial and professional situation, but I'm not ruling it out, either, because while I've been extremely uncomfortable, I've also slept a lot and dreamed a lot. Sure, I've thought about the financial and professional issues, but they haven't consumed me--wanting to feel human again has. I've prayed about the job situation, but I've really prayed to recover physically.
I've taken my medicines, slept, eaten, and stayed hydrated. Very basic stuff. I haven'f felt like agonizing mentally about how sick I've been. In short, in a weird way, I've had peace. Maybe it's the peace I've prayed for. I've known for a long time that God really does answer prayers in ways we don't expect.
My refresher lesson in this is that I need periodic reminders to "Let go and let God." I hope I don't need another reminder for a very long time.
Like many people in my area, I've recently been felled by a respiratory bug. Despite a trusty standby antibiotic that usually gets rid of anything that plagues me, I've been fighting "the crud" since January 7. I'm better, but I've still got a long way to go. At least it feels that way. I hope this will be one of those times that the glorious dawn breaks suddenly, wiping away all vestiges of the proverbial dark, stormy night.
As you can imagine, I've put a lot of things on hold, spending most of my time just trying to survive. I've had to put my job search on hold for the most part, relying on the recent footwork I've done to bear fruit. It looks like it may do just that; I'm cautiously optimistic.
During my many hours in bed, some actually awake, I've thought a lot about the fact that I'm having no choice but to put into practice the old adage "Let go and let God." There's nothing like being physically sick and unable to "do (my) part" to remind me that it's really God who makes things happen. He just allows me to do my part--what He's instructed me to do, and hopefully nothing more. He's the real "mover and shaker," not me.
Problems arise when I try to push things in the wrong direction or move too fast or lag behind. Fortunately, He's gracious enough to gently correct my course if I let Him, and He uses all kinds of things to do it. Since everything works together for good if we love Him, that means even sickness. I've been so freaked out lately, about so many things, that I've been praying hard for peace. I'm not saying that He allowed me to get "the crud" to give me peace, taking my mind off my financial and professional situation, but I'm not ruling it out, either, because while I've been extremely uncomfortable, I've also slept a lot and dreamed a lot. Sure, I've thought about the financial and professional issues, but they haven't consumed me--wanting to feel human again has. I've prayed about the job situation, but I've really prayed to recover physically.
I've taken my medicines, slept, eaten, and stayed hydrated. Very basic stuff. I haven'f felt like agonizing mentally about how sick I've been. In short, in a weird way, I've had peace. Maybe it's the peace I've prayed for. I've known for a long time that God really does answer prayers in ways we don't expect.
My refresher lesson in this is that I need periodic reminders to "Let go and let God." I hope I don't need another reminder for a very long time.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Happy New Year!
You Never Know Until You Try.
I pray 2011 is better for us all than 2010 was and encourage everyone to forget what is behind and press on to what is ahead! Yes, I'm preaching to myself most of all here! Here's my sermon for Jacline: Forget the bad of last year and don't let it hinder my faith this year, and don't rest on my laurels from last year, but strive to be the best I can be this year.
I pray 2011 is better for us all than 2010 was and encourage everyone to forget what is behind and press on to what is ahead! Yes, I'm preaching to myself most of all here! Here's my sermon for Jacline: Forget the bad of last year and don't let it hinder my faith this year, and don't rest on my laurels from last year, but strive to be the best I can be this year.
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