Saturday, May 12, 2012
Don't Answer a Fool According to His (Her) Folly...
"God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers." Matthew 5:11
As humans, our hearts and spirits are grieved when our actions, intentions, and motivations are misrepresented and even purposefully and spitefully lied about. It hurts. A lot. But greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world, and He gives us grace and peace to rest in the Truth. Our battle is not against flesh and blood...bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Not an easy task (at ALL!!!), but your sadness, hurt and anger will be replaced with peace and strength of character when we do it His way, regardless of what others think, say or do.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Amuck amuck amuck amuck...
Just typing the title to this post made me smile. But that wasn't the case yesterday. My life, heart, mind, and spirit felt like they were drowning in "muck". Do you ever feel that way? A dear friend shared about "fear" in one of his recent blogs...and I think that had something to do with my muck. Fear is a crazy thing, isn't it? Fear of the unknown? Fear of not being in control? Fear of being vulnerable or investing with no return? Fear that your feelings will be unrequited? Yes...fear...something Jesus constantly addressed with his disciples, but at the same time encouraged as the beginning of wisdom.
Returned from a work trip on Friday. It was very successful and I even found the perfect little apartment near the beach. But so many questions and unrealized fears were stirred up as a result. As a "recovering control freak", being "out of control" and having to trust and wait and know that He knows what's up is still a challenge for this type "A" extrovert. I typically embrace change and new adventures with gusto, but this time is a bit different. Exhausted from my trip and wanting to just relax and regroup a bit, I came home to find things not the way I had left them. This completely disarmed me. I felt violated, disrespected, disregarded.... So off to the beach I went. I find so much solace there...the pounding of the surf...the water lapping onto the shore...the glistening of the sunlight as it dances on the water...even the melody of the seagulls...ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh...and my body relaxes. YET! No peace was to be had within my soul. So...being the stubborn one that I am, I told the Lord I wasn't leaving until he met me there. Period. And I waited. One hour...two hours...three hours... Thoughts drifted to decisions that need to be made...huge life decisions, like when to make my move to Florida? How long will I be there? Will I come back? What about Daybreak? Movies? TV show? Friends here? Lauren and the baby? Fear of the unknown...fear of not making the right choices...fear of saying too much, too soon - or of not saying anything at all. My mind was so overrun with thoughts and the emotions that followed the processing of each one, I was paralyzed with butt firmly planted in the sand. And then it came...that still, small voice that I have come to recognize and thirst after. "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will make straight paths for your feet. I am making a way in the wasteland and streams in the desert... No longer will they call you Deserted or name your land Desolate...when you call I will be found by you when you seek me with all your heart." A peace flooded over me and brought with it a clarity and hope for what lies ahead. I don't have all the answers yet, but..."I will remain confident of this, I will see the goodness of the Lord"! :) <3
Returned from a work trip on Friday. It was very successful and I even found the perfect little apartment near the beach. But so many questions and unrealized fears were stirred up as a result. As a "recovering control freak", being "out of control" and having to trust and wait and know that He knows what's up is still a challenge for this type "A" extrovert. I typically embrace change and new adventures with gusto, but this time is a bit different. Exhausted from my trip and wanting to just relax and regroup a bit, I came home to find things not the way I had left them. This completely disarmed me. I felt violated, disrespected, disregarded.... So off to the beach I went. I find so much solace there...the pounding of the surf...the water lapping onto the shore...the glistening of the sunlight as it dances on the water...even the melody of the seagulls...ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh...and my body relaxes. YET! No peace was to be had within my soul. So...being the stubborn one that I am, I told the Lord I wasn't leaving until he met me there. Period. And I waited. One hour...two hours...three hours... Thoughts drifted to decisions that need to be made...huge life decisions, like when to make my move to Florida? How long will I be there? Will I come back? What about Daybreak? Movies? TV show? Friends here? Lauren and the baby? Fear of the unknown...fear of not making the right choices...fear of saying too much, too soon - or of not saying anything at all. My mind was so overrun with thoughts and the emotions that followed the processing of each one, I was paralyzed with butt firmly planted in the sand. And then it came...that still, small voice that I have come to recognize and thirst after. "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will make straight paths for your feet. I am making a way in the wasteland and streams in the desert... No longer will they call you Deserted or name your land Desolate...when you call I will be found by you when you seek me with all your heart." A peace flooded over me and brought with it a clarity and hope for what lies ahead. I don't have all the answers yet, but..."I will remain confident of this, I will see the goodness of the Lord"! :) <3
Saturday, March 3, 2012
House Update
Wow...what a week this has been! A crazy week of unbelievably successful client meetings and cancelled flights to and from D.C., but all in all it was incredible. And now...I flew back into town this morning with enough time to make sure the bed was made before the real estate agent showed up for another showing. Nothing like being under the gun! Thank you, Frontier Airlines...lol Well, turns out the woman who looked at the house actually made an offer. (!) Much lower than I will agree to sell it for, but it's a start.
And then ... the tears. Reality is starting to set in and the tears are beginning to flow ... freely. Some of your faces flash across my mind and the tears turn into sobs........my heart is absolutely breaking at the thought of leaving here...leaving you. I am confident that the Lord is moving us on...at least for a season...although I have no idea for how long or what any of the rest of the future looks like. There is peace, but there is pain as well. I'm still thinking CHURCH PLANT in Florida!!! :) "Daybreak Florida"??? HELLO!!! Anyway, I know this isn't a typical post...but for those of you who pray, I ask for your prayers for direction, clarity and timing. And for comfort and peace as I/we take these steps forward..........cuz it really hurts. <3
And then ... the tears. Reality is starting to set in and the tears are beginning to flow ... freely. Some of your faces flash across my mind and the tears turn into sobs........my heart is absolutely breaking at the thought of leaving here...leaving you. I am confident that the Lord is moving us on...at least for a season...although I have no idea for how long or what any of the rest of the future looks like. There is peace, but there is pain as well. I'm still thinking CHURCH PLANT in Florida!!! :) "Daybreak Florida"??? HELLO!!! Anyway, I know this isn't a typical post...but for those of you who pray, I ask for your prayers for direction, clarity and timing. And for comfort and peace as I/we take these steps forward..........cuz it really hurts. <3
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
A Dog's Life
I borrowed this from a friend's email this morning...and thought it was so cute...........Enjoy! :)
In memory of "Sonny"; love you, Ellen.
A Dog's Purpose?
(from a 6-year-old).
He said,''People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?'' The Six-year-old continued,
''Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long.''
Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.
There comes a time in life, when you walk away from all the drama and people who create it and surround yourself with people who make you laugh, forget the bad, and focus on the good.
So, love the people who treat you right and bless, not curse, those who don't.
Life is too short. Falling down is part of LIFE...Getting back up is LIVING...
<3
In memory of "Sonny"; love you, Ellen.
 |
| "Skyler" |
(from a 6-year-old).
He said,''People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?'' The Six-year-old continued,
''Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long.''
Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.
There comes a time in life, when you walk away from all the drama and people who create it and surround yourself with people who make you laugh, forget the bad, and focus on the good.
So, love the people who treat you right and bless, not curse, those who don't.
Life is too short. Falling down is part of LIFE...Getting back up is LIVING...
<3
Monday, February 20, 2012
Risky Business
As a teacher of "Boundaries", structure, setting limits, and following through with consequences, it may seem a little oxymoronical (is that even a word?) to say that I wholeheartedly believe in risking, taking chances and jumping in with both feet...in almost every aspect of my life. I am willing to fail, so I am willing to risk. This is fairly easy for me to do with businesses, purchases, job choices, spontaneous road-trips, pajama bowling, and midnight runs to Mc Donald's, ...but what about relationships? Am I so quick to go "all in" with my heart? Admittedly....yes, I am. Now let me preface the following with my NOT advocating taking risks with things, situations or people who are harmful to or for you. And by all means, please do not mistake the following to say that you should STAY in a situation that is harmful. Guard your heart from those who will not care for yours...and never settle for less than God's very best for you...in anything. Not always easy to figure out where the balance is, but you must try. That being said, I digress...a topic for another time.
Maybe I look at life a little differently than some of my friends or others around me. I may appear impetuous, adventurous, impulsive, foolhardy, even reckless! And alas...again, guilty as charged.
Although, I prefer to call it "passionate". :)
Getting out of bed each day, putting one foot in front of the other, involves risk. We may trip on our way out of bed, break our face and internally bleed to death. (Oh, did I forget to mention "dramatic"?) Or we could get in a car wreck on our way to work and ... game over. Or, at our annual pap and boob squishing sessions (sorry to my male readers, but your "annual" isn't much prettier), we may get the dreaded news that time may be shorter than we had thought on our way into the Dr.'s office. Our time on earth is extremely short, when you consider the eternal scheme of things. At least from my perspective. My existence is defined by what the Bible says, and the Bible says I will exist for eternity. My time on earth, however, is but a dust particle in that eternity...a "breath", if you will. So I try not to get too tweaked over the things that happen in or around my particular piece of dust. I also try to cram as many "memory making" opportunities into each and every breath. Yes, it is exhausting; however, if there is an opportunity to try something new, experience a new food, ride the metro in D.C. in 5 degree weather just to spend all day looking at paintings in the Smithsonian, sit in the front seat of a stupidly scary roller-coaster, jump out of a plane, hop on the train or road-trip to Chicago to eat sushi and shop for the day, cruise through Europe with absolutely no plan or idea of where to go next...you can probably sign me up. So then back to my heart. What about the people in my life? After many years of learning how to have "healthy" boundaries in life (which I am still learning to do, by the way...life is a never ending class), I want to embrace with full gusto those that cross my path. And if given the opportunity, to genuinely listen to and hear their "story". I consider each and every person who comes into my life one who was destined to be there. Some for a moment in time, some for a season, and some for a lifetime. So, in which of them will I invest? All of them...or at least I will try.
"But you'll never see that person again; what's it going to matter?"
"But they're moving next month; why invest your time?"
"But what if they don't love you back?"
All valid questions...and all that warrant an answer.
To that person that crossed my path for an instant in time: I smiled. Maybe their world fell apart 10 minutes ago, and there I was...with a smile, or an opened door, or cuts in the grocery line, or a warm pair of socks. Perhaps it took just one smile in the line, one smile as we passed on the street, one smile as a broken heart looked out through tears for hope...to that one, that instant in time mattered. It may have even saved a life.
To that person that is leaving soon, moving away, or just here visiting on vacation. What are you risking by getting to know that person and take advantage of every second you are given with them? If you "click", why not enjoy the time? I don't know about you, but I don't necessarily "click" with that many people. Maybe because my life saunters along at warp speed.............? Hmmmmmmmmm......
Man, I thank God for my friends! (Pause for deep appreciation for those who love, accept and believe in me...)
Is not the greater reward of friendship or imparted wisdom or a day of laughter and a common bond worth the pain of saying "goodbye"? In this day of insanely advanced technology, where there are numerous ways to communicate, you are never too far away to "reach out and touch" or be touched by a kind word in a text, email or letter, or an uplifting phone call, face time or skype.
To the failed relationship? I am so sorry for your pain. Love lost is incredibly hurtful. Were there any redeeming things from your time together? Did you laugh? Learn? Love and be loved...if only for a moment? Treasure those times and appreciate them for what they were...adding to what makes you "you" today. Learn from any of the mistakes you may have made...and allow it to become wisdom for your future choices.
I miss my friends desperately, but I am a better person for all who I have invested in, and they in me...for whatever time we were given. Maybe we'll see each other again this side of Heaven; maybe we won't...but I would have lost terribly if not for the time I took to invest in and with each and every one of those I chose to connect with, regardless of the duration. This season of my life is seemingly coming to an end...again. I am truly heartbroken (more-so than I can remember with previous moves) over some of those I will be leaving...maybe for good. People I have grown to love with so much of my being. But I treasure their friendship and the time they have given (and continue to give) me. I am a better person because of them. And I hope, in some small way, I have touched and affected their lives for the better as well. And if by chance we do reconnect? I am confident it will be as if no time had passed. That is the beauty of true friendship and the bonds we create...they exist outside of time and distance...when we take the chance and risk.
Don't miss out on the amazing reward of risking your heart. Yes, it will hurt when you say "goodbye", but I guarantee the memories, growth, smiles, and return on your investment will far outweigh the pain...if you let them.
<3
Maybe I look at life a little differently than some of my friends or others around me. I may appear impetuous, adventurous, impulsive, foolhardy, even reckless! And alas...again, guilty as charged.
Although, I prefer to call it "passionate". :)
Getting out of bed each day, putting one foot in front of the other, involves risk. We may trip on our way out of bed, break our face and internally bleed to death. (Oh, did I forget to mention "dramatic"?) Or we could get in a car wreck on our way to work and ... game over. Or, at our annual pap and boob squishing sessions (sorry to my male readers, but your "annual" isn't much prettier), we may get the dreaded news that time may be shorter than we had thought on our way into the Dr.'s office. Our time on earth is extremely short, when you consider the eternal scheme of things. At least from my perspective. My existence is defined by what the Bible says, and the Bible says I will exist for eternity. My time on earth, however, is but a dust particle in that eternity...a "breath", if you will. So I try not to get too tweaked over the things that happen in or around my particular piece of dust. I also try to cram as many "memory making" opportunities into each and every breath. Yes, it is exhausting; however, if there is an opportunity to try something new, experience a new food, ride the metro in D.C. in 5 degree weather just to spend all day looking at paintings in the Smithsonian, sit in the front seat of a stupidly scary roller-coaster, jump out of a plane, hop on the train or road-trip to Chicago to eat sushi and shop for the day, cruise through Europe with absolutely no plan or idea of where to go next...you can probably sign me up. So then back to my heart. What about the people in my life? After many years of learning how to have "healthy" boundaries in life (which I am still learning to do, by the way...life is a never ending class), I want to embrace with full gusto those that cross my path. And if given the opportunity, to genuinely listen to and hear their "story". I consider each and every person who comes into my life one who was destined to be there. Some for a moment in time, some for a season, and some for a lifetime. So, in which of them will I invest? All of them...or at least I will try.
"But you'll never see that person again; what's it going to matter?"
"But they're moving next month; why invest your time?"
"But what if they don't love you back?"
All valid questions...and all that warrant an answer.
To that person that crossed my path for an instant in time: I smiled. Maybe their world fell apart 10 minutes ago, and there I was...with a smile, or an opened door, or cuts in the grocery line, or a warm pair of socks. Perhaps it took just one smile in the line, one smile as we passed on the street, one smile as a broken heart looked out through tears for hope...to that one, that instant in time mattered. It may have even saved a life.
To that person that is leaving soon, moving away, or just here visiting on vacation. What are you risking by getting to know that person and take advantage of every second you are given with them? If you "click", why not enjoy the time? I don't know about you, but I don't necessarily "click" with that many people. Maybe because my life saunters along at warp speed.............? Hmmmmmmmmm......
Man, I thank God for my friends! (Pause for deep appreciation for those who love, accept and believe in me...)
Is not the greater reward of friendship or imparted wisdom or a day of laughter and a common bond worth the pain of saying "goodbye"? In this day of insanely advanced technology, where there are numerous ways to communicate, you are never too far away to "reach out and touch" or be touched by a kind word in a text, email or letter, or an uplifting phone call, face time or skype.
To the failed relationship? I am so sorry for your pain. Love lost is incredibly hurtful. Were there any redeeming things from your time together? Did you laugh? Learn? Love and be loved...if only for a moment? Treasure those times and appreciate them for what they were...adding to what makes you "you" today. Learn from any of the mistakes you may have made...and allow it to become wisdom for your future choices.
I miss my friends desperately, but I am a better person for all who I have invested in, and they in me...for whatever time we were given. Maybe we'll see each other again this side of Heaven; maybe we won't...but I would have lost terribly if not for the time I took to invest in and with each and every one of those I chose to connect with, regardless of the duration. This season of my life is seemingly coming to an end...again. I am truly heartbroken (more-so than I can remember with previous moves) over some of those I will be leaving...maybe for good. People I have grown to love with so much of my being. But I treasure their friendship and the time they have given (and continue to give) me. I am a better person because of them. And I hope, in some small way, I have touched and affected their lives for the better as well. And if by chance we do reconnect? I am confident it will be as if no time had passed. That is the beauty of true friendship and the bonds we create...they exist outside of time and distance...when we take the chance and risk.
Don't miss out on the amazing reward of risking your heart. Yes, it will hurt when you say "goodbye", but I guarantee the memories, growth, smiles, and return on your investment will far outweigh the pain...if you let them.
The degree that you are willing to risk and hurt
is in direct proportion to the degree that you are able to love.
Don't miss out on love...regardless of the duration. To not have risked is the real loss.
RISK! INVEST! MAKE A MEMORY!
TAKE A CHANCE AND LOVE FOR A MOMENT!
Who knows...you may hit the jackpot and experience fulfillment and love beyond what you could ask or imagine... TAKE A CHANCE AND LOVE FOR A MOMENT!
It truly is better to have loved and lost, than to never have loved at all.
<3
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Inspired...
Reaching depths unfamiliar
Challenging comfort, pushing potential
You believe in me
Striving to be better
For Him, then me alone
Longing, pressing, realization
Of all that He can see
©2012 Kym Kurey
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
A Valentine's Wish...
Philippians 1:3-11, Ephesians 3:16-19, Romans 8:38, Ephesians 2:10
"And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight....I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God....For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord....For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago..."
On this, my 48th Valentine's Day...I strive to focus on what I have and not on what I don't. I have three incredible children who all know Christ as their Lord. I have family that I cherish, friends that I adore - many of those who have become family to me. I have an amazing church family and the opportunity to serve with the talents I have been given. I have loved and have known love and continue to pursue love...through my family, friends and strangers who cross my path. And yes, I even got flowers and chocolate today!
As a single woman, sometimes I get lonely but I am never alone; I know the love of God surrounds and fills and comforts me, with gentle whispers of how loved and important I am...to Him. May the love of God fill you to overflowing today, whether you have a human being to celebrate with or not. Know that you are loved, created with a purpose, and passionately pursued and kept by the lover of your soul.
Happy Valentine's Day
<3
"And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight....I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God....For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord....For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago..."
On this, my 48th Valentine's Day...I strive to focus on what I have and not on what I don't. I have three incredible children who all know Christ as their Lord. I have family that I cherish, friends that I adore - many of those who have become family to me. I have an amazing church family and the opportunity to serve with the talents I have been given. I have loved and have known love and continue to pursue love...through my family, friends and strangers who cross my path. And yes, I even got flowers and chocolate today!
As a single woman, sometimes I get lonely but I am never alone; I know the love of God surrounds and fills and comforts me, with gentle whispers of how loved and important I am...to Him. May the love of God fill you to overflowing today, whether you have a human being to celebrate with or not. Know that you are loved, created with a purpose, and passionately pursued and kept by the lover of your soul.
Happy Valentine's Day
<3
2012 Michigan Film Awards
Uptown Film Festival
Join us for the 2nd Annual Uptown Film Festival celebrating Michigan filmmaking. This premiere event will take place in downtown Birmingham, Michigan on March 8-10th, 2012.
This three day event will highlight premieres of major Michigan feature films and screenings of nominated films from the 3rd Annual Michigan Film Awards competition.
"Abandon" has been nominated in four (4) categories!!! We'd love to have you join us for the excitement.
View ALL the nominees by clicking this link: http://www.uptownfilmfestival.com/Awards.php
UPCOMING SCHEDULE
Thursday, March 8th: Michigan Film Makers Night
Friday, March 9th: VIP Event
Saturday, March 10th: Annual Michigan Films Awards Competition
www.uptownfilmfestival.com
Join us for the 2nd Annual Uptown Film Festival celebrating Michigan filmmaking. This premiere event will take place in downtown Birmingham, Michigan on March 8-10th, 2012.
This three day event will highlight premieres of major Michigan feature films and screenings of nominated films from the 3rd Annual Michigan Film Awards competition.
"Abandon" has been nominated in four (4) categories!!! We'd love to have you join us for the excitement.
View ALL the nominees by clicking this link: http://www.uptownfilmfestival.com/Awards.php
UPCOMING SCHEDULE
Thursday, March 8th: Michigan Film Makers Night
Friday, March 9th: VIP Event
Saturday, March 10th: Annual Michigan Films Awards Competition
www.uptownfilmfestival.com
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Whitney's Dead...
...and I'm a mess. Not really sure why. What a tragic, tragic loss...on so many levels.
"Feel your pain..."
What the heck does THAT mean? Years ago I went to a counselor during a rough spot in my marriage. It was a pleasant conversation; I stayed positive and hopeful as I shared, acknowledging that God was in control, all of this must be happening for a reason, and that it would all work out. When I had finished sharing, he looked at me as said, "Kym...you have to feel your pain." What???? It wasn't until years later that I finally understood what he was saying. All I thought at that point, however, was "this guy's on crack...and I'm paying hard earned money for this??? Feel your pain....whatever!"
I was speaking the Truth...all of those principles and beliefs were good, solid attitudes to have...so what the heck? I was trying to be a good Christian, for Pete's sake.
I learned that sometimes a smile when you're dying inside is appropriate. When you have to get through your day at work, when you have to be "strong" or the "adult" for your kids when they're scared or hurting...when you don't want to be vulnerable with those who you've not built a trust relationship with...but then there are times when it is absolutely not appropriate to "fake your way through life". Quite honestly, and I hope I don't offend anyone with this, but growing up in the mid-west and surrounded by alcoholics, I learned how to "fake it" and smile my positive, happy-self smile, through just about every situation in life, all in the name of "faith", and never truly admit that something was ever wrong or needed to be addressed. I couldn't be weak; I couldn't doubt; I couldn't show that I was an emotional "girl". God forbid. "Everything's fine", "God's in control", "Just be positive and it will work out", "Wrong? No, nothing's wrong. Don't be silly", "How am I? FINE!!!" All the while I was dying inside. Who knew? And to quote one of my favorite movies, "DENIAL"!!! Don't get me wrong; I'm not advocating running around spilling your sad story to everyone and their brother...but don't push reality down into your pinky toe and pretend everything is wonderful when it's not. It is what it is. Grief sucks. Sometimes we're sick. Sometimes we're sad or depressed. Sometimes we're SO ANGRY!!! And sometimes we have been so hurt that we can hardly function. It's ok to say, "I'm hurting, but I'm working through it." OR...and here's a stretch for some of us "got it under control types"..."I need help." "I've fallen and I can't get up." (!) Do you ever feel that way? If you haven't, you will. And when you do, who will be there to lend a hand? And even more, will you let them? We empower and value one another when we ask for and receive help. We all have a need to be needed as well. None of us is an island; we were created to need and function as a community, giving and receiving, building up the weaknesses and sharing in the strengths of each other. We are all parts of one "body", so to speak...and we need one another to function properly. Being honest with yourself and others takes time and courage, especially when you've had to be the "strong" one in your life...or at least you thought you had to be. It's ok to fail (it keeps you humble and eliminates your choices!); it's ok to be wrong (we are all learning every day and sometimes our wrong choices are what teach us wisdom for the next time), and it's ok to be weak, for then we engage a trusted friend or family member and value them enough to share our vulnerability. And...if nobody else is around, there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother...for in our weakness, He is strong.
Don't be afraid to face and feel your pain. It's GOING TO HURT, but you will come through it, be stronger and hopefully wiser from it, and who knows...maybe you will be the trusted friend that lends a helping hand the next time. You are strong, you are beautiful, you are loved, and you have a unique purpose...you can make a difference. <3
I was speaking the Truth...all of those principles and beliefs were good, solid attitudes to have...so what the heck? I was trying to be a good Christian, for Pete's sake.
I learned that sometimes a smile when you're dying inside is appropriate. When you have to get through your day at work, when you have to be "strong" or the "adult" for your kids when they're scared or hurting...when you don't want to be vulnerable with those who you've not built a trust relationship with...but then there are times when it is absolutely not appropriate to "fake your way through life". Quite honestly, and I hope I don't offend anyone with this, but growing up in the mid-west and surrounded by alcoholics, I learned how to "fake it" and smile my positive, happy-self smile, through just about every situation in life, all in the name of "faith", and never truly admit that something was ever wrong or needed to be addressed. I couldn't be weak; I couldn't doubt; I couldn't show that I was an emotional "girl". God forbid. "Everything's fine", "God's in control", "Just be positive and it will work out", "Wrong? No, nothing's wrong. Don't be silly", "How am I? FINE!!!" All the while I was dying inside. Who knew? And to quote one of my favorite movies, "DENIAL"!!! Don't get me wrong; I'm not advocating running around spilling your sad story to everyone and their brother...but don't push reality down into your pinky toe and pretend everything is wonderful when it's not. It is what it is. Grief sucks. Sometimes we're sick. Sometimes we're sad or depressed. Sometimes we're SO ANGRY!!! And sometimes we have been so hurt that we can hardly function. It's ok to say, "I'm hurting, but I'm working through it." OR...and here's a stretch for some of us "got it under control types"..."I need help." "I've fallen and I can't get up." (!) Do you ever feel that way? If you haven't, you will. And when you do, who will be there to lend a hand? And even more, will you let them? We empower and value one another when we ask for and receive help. We all have a need to be needed as well. None of us is an island; we were created to need and function as a community, giving and receiving, building up the weaknesses and sharing in the strengths of each other. We are all parts of one "body", so to speak...and we need one another to function properly. Being honest with yourself and others takes time and courage, especially when you've had to be the "strong" one in your life...or at least you thought you had to be. It's ok to fail (it keeps you humble and eliminates your choices!); it's ok to be wrong (we are all learning every day and sometimes our wrong choices are what teach us wisdom for the next time), and it's ok to be weak, for then we engage a trusted friend or family member and value them enough to share our vulnerability. And...if nobody else is around, there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother...for in our weakness, He is strong.
Don't be afraid to face and feel your pain. It's GOING TO HURT, but you will come through it, be stronger and hopefully wiser from it, and who knows...maybe you will be the trusted friend that lends a helping hand the next time. You are strong, you are beautiful, you are loved, and you have a unique purpose...you can make a difference. <3
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Braydon at 20 weeks!
I am in awe at the miracle of human life. How in the WORLD can anyone not believe in God when they honestly get a glimpse of and really look at the life growing inside of a womb! The perfect combination of everything is just too beyond any "accident" to not be the result of a divine creator. It takes more faith NOT to believe in God than it does to acknowledge Him. Good grief. Even Darwin recanted his own theory towards the end of his life. But do they teach THAT in school? Yah, not so much. Anyways...
Yesterday was Missy's 20 week ultrasound (actually 20 weeks and 3 days...lol) and it was incredible. With today's technology, we even got to see 3D images of Braydon hiding his face, kicking his legs and punching Mom in the stomach...it was hilarious. Just imagine what the teenage years will be like! LOL And yes, true to form of any grandma...he is SO CUTE!!! Yes, of COURSE a 20 week old fetus can be cute...jeeeesh! Schedules are busy with work and filming, singing, dancing, writing, and getting the house ready to sell. Waiting on the Lord to move the cloud or part the sea...
In the meantime, we run the race... <3
Yesterday was Missy's 20 week ultrasound (actually 20 weeks and 3 days...lol) and it was incredible. With today's technology, we even got to see 3D images of Braydon hiding his face, kicking his legs and punching Mom in the stomach...it was hilarious. Just imagine what the teenage years will be like! LOL And yes, true to form of any grandma...he is SO CUTE!!! Yes, of COURSE a 20 week old fetus can be cute...jeeeesh! Schedules are busy with work and filming, singing, dancing, writing, and getting the house ready to sell. Waiting on the Lord to move the cloud or part the sea...
In the meantime, we run the race... <3
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Great movie!
"We Bought a Zoo" was SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO good! :) A must see to be sure.
And then Lauren and I decided to stop by a photo booth and get some goofy pics together. WHO KNEW they actually video tape you while you're in the booth?! Yah, I had no idea. Be sure to click on my "favorite videos" link... :) OH! And I bought a book: "Publishing for Dummies". Thanks, M...onward and upward!
"Disciplining yourself to do what you know is right and important, although difficult, is the highroad to pride, self-esteem, and personal satisfaction." Margaret Thatcher
Today's message was SO great...talking about faith and how we need to use it in order to get good at it. Dan Seaborn (amazing speaker) used an illustration from basketball and learning to dribble. Sometimes you'll have the ball taken from you...sometimes you'll lose it...sometimes you'll be clumsy or sloppy while you work your way across the court...but the point is that you're doing it...you're learning...one step at a time! Nobody gets good at anything by osmosis, you don't learn to dribble by carrying the ball under your arm and your faith doesn't grow or get stronger unless you step out when you can't see a thing. Take the first step, dare to trust when you can't see ahead...and watch your faith grow and strengthen. <3
And then Lauren and I decided to stop by a photo booth and get some goofy pics together. WHO KNEW they actually video tape you while you're in the booth?! Yah, I had no idea. Be sure to click on my "favorite videos" link... :) OH! And I bought a book: "Publishing for Dummies". Thanks, M...onward and upward!
"Disciplining yourself to do what you know is right and important, although difficult, is the highroad to pride, self-esteem, and personal satisfaction." Margaret Thatcher
Today's message was SO great...talking about faith and how we need to use it in order to get good at it. Dan Seaborn (amazing speaker) used an illustration from basketball and learning to dribble. Sometimes you'll have the ball taken from you...sometimes you'll lose it...sometimes you'll be clumsy or sloppy while you work your way across the court...but the point is that you're doing it...you're learning...one step at a time! Nobody gets good at anything by osmosis, you don't learn to dribble by carrying the ball under your arm and your faith doesn't grow or get stronger unless you step out when you can't see a thing. Take the first step, dare to trust when you can't see ahead...and watch your faith grow and strengthen. <3
Oooops, I did it again...
I went to see "Iron Lady" again tonight. So far "Avatar", "The Help", and now "Iron Lady" have warranted a second trip to the theater (I think it was actually a fourth with Avatar - lol). Favorite MT quote #2:
"Watch your thoughts for they become words. Watch your words for they become actions. Watch your actions for they become...habits. Watch your habits, for they become your character. And watch your character, for it becomes your destiny!"
When I was a kid, we used to watch Flip Wilson (I know; I am WAY dating myself now). Remember his famous line? "The devil made me do it!" I sure wish I could blame my stupid choices on the devil...or ANYone for that matter. (!) I tend to wear my heart on my sleeve, and speak my mind probably more often than I should. My face, to those who know me, speaks louder than even my words at times. Emotions are amazing things. A sight, a sound, a song, a smell, a taste, a touch...can evoke an emotional reaction so strong, catching us completely off guard. Do you have a favorite smell? Mine is skunk. Seriously!!! Well, ok...one of them.
How is it that we can see somebody walk by, who we DON'T EVEN KNOW, and have a physical reaction to just seeing them??? We are indeed fearfully and wonderfully made. What we do next, however, is the barometer of our character. The maturity "litmus test", if you will. God created emotions and gave them to us for very wonderful and specific purposes; however, we're to guard our hearts, our tongues, our responses, and ultimately the resulting actions, despite what our emotions may initially dictate. Even prophecy is subject to the prophet. Sorry, Flip..."We da boss o' dem."
"We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:5
<3
"Watch your thoughts for they become words. Watch your words for they become actions. Watch your actions for they become...habits. Watch your habits, for they become your character. And watch your character, for it becomes your destiny!"
When I was a kid, we used to watch Flip Wilson (I know; I am WAY dating myself now). Remember his famous line? "The devil made me do it!" I sure wish I could blame my stupid choices on the devil...or ANYone for that matter. (!) I tend to wear my heart on my sleeve, and speak my mind probably more often than I should. My face, to those who know me, speaks louder than even my words at times. Emotions are amazing things. A sight, a sound, a song, a smell, a taste, a touch...can evoke an emotional reaction so strong, catching us completely off guard. Do you have a favorite smell? Mine is skunk. Seriously!!! Well, ok...one of them.
How is it that we can see somebody walk by, who we DON'T EVEN KNOW, and have a physical reaction to just seeing them??? We are indeed fearfully and wonderfully made. What we do next, however, is the barometer of our character. The maturity "litmus test", if you will. God created emotions and gave them to us for very wonderful and specific purposes; however, we're to guard our hearts, our tongues, our responses, and ultimately the resulting actions, despite what our emotions may initially dictate. Even prophecy is subject to the prophet. Sorry, Flip..."We da boss o' dem."
"We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:5
<3
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Saying "Goodbye"...
Ugggghhhh....one of the worst things in the world for me is saying goodbye. Grief sucks. Whether it's due to a death of a loved one, a friend moving away (sniff), an ended relationship, or having to let somebody go that works for you, it's all hard. The latter was my case today...I had to let an employee go. That is so hard for me. I guess I don't understand why somebody CHOOSES to continue down a road where they know there are consequences for their behavior (or lack thereof in this case), much like a child CHOOSES to disobey or cross a boundary...and suffer the consequences of discipline. Oh, but wait! (insert "aha! moment" here) I guess we all do that to some extent, don't we? We choose to do things we shouldn't, hoping that the "powers at be" will have mercy and let us slide...all the while knowing that if they love us, they won't. I wonder if it breaks God's heart to discipline us like it breaks ours to discipline our kids...or employees. Hmmmmm..... Help me to choose wisely today, Lord, from that which I have learned from past discipline and not break your heart as mine is broken right now. <3
The battle isn't yours...
Ever since I saw the movie "Iron Lady", my world has been rocked...in several ways...all of them good.
Of course Meryl Streep was nothing short of miraculous, as usual...and Margaret Thatcher?
Margaret Thatcher was an unbelievably amazing woman...
So, I think I'll share a favorite Thatcher quote each day. Today's is:
What battle are you fighting today? An inner struggle or addiction, a devastating betrayal or wound someone has caused you, consequences of your own bad choice, an irritating co-worker, an unrelenting boss or parent, a spouse that just doesn't get it, a rebellious child, fear of the unknown and silent thief of illness? Don't give up...strength to persevere will come...you never know when success may be right around the next corner, or with one more push towards victory.
We all get weary...and need a break. Maybe a hot bath, or candles, or dinner and a movie with a friend you feel safe with...
and...then there is a place we can always run to and be safe...to a friend who sticks closer than a brother...
"Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.
When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you." Isaiah 43:1b-2
"But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar
high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will
walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:31
"The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phillipians 4:5b - 7
"But for you who fear my name, the Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in his wings. And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture." Malachai 4:2
Blessings as you walk through your battles...on your knees and head held high...one step at a time.
<3
Of course Meryl Streep was nothing short of miraculous, as usual...and Margaret Thatcher?
Margaret Thatcher was an unbelievably amazing woman...
So, I think I'll share a favorite Thatcher quote each day. Today's is:
"You may have to fight a battle more than once to win
it."
What battle are you fighting today? An inner struggle or addiction, a devastating betrayal or wound someone has caused you, consequences of your own bad choice, an irritating co-worker, an unrelenting boss or parent, a spouse that just doesn't get it, a rebellious child, fear of the unknown and silent thief of illness? Don't give up...strength to persevere will come...you never know when success may be right around the next corner, or with one more push towards victory.
We all get weary...and need a break. Maybe a hot bath, or candles, or dinner and a movie with a friend you feel safe with...
and...then there is a place we can always run to and be safe...to a friend who sticks closer than a brother...
"Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.
When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you." Isaiah 43:1b-2
"So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up." Galatians 6:9
"The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phillipians 4:5b - 7
"Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm.
Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil." Proverbs 4:23-27
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6"But for you who fear my name, the Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in his wings. And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture." Malachai 4:2
Blessings as you walk through your battles...on your knees and head held high...one step at a time.
<3
Friday, February 3, 2012
The Journey Begins...
Well, here we go. Welcome to my new blog! I don't claim to offer any more than the next guy but hopefully you will be able to take away a little sumpin' sumpin' from what is shared here. Feel free to comment and suggest topics to chat about...or do I say "blog" about now?
May God richly bless you today as you walk this journey called life. Wow...2:08am.
I seriously need to start sleeping at night. <3
May God richly bless you today as you walk this journey called life. Wow...2:08am.
I seriously need to start sleeping at night. <3
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