You may have noticed some of your social media friends posting pictures with the hashtag "100HappyDays" attached. The picture was cool, the comment was interesting and so you "like" the posting and go about your day. I've done it lots of times. Oddly enough, I "liked" one girl's post almost every day through her 100 days without even looking up WHY she was doing it. It wasn't until I noticed someone else posting under that hashtag before I decided to see what this was all about.
Here's the deal: it's simple. Find one thing every day that makes you happy and post the picture. We all post anyway, right? Why not make it something worthwhile sharing? Something that lets others know what makes you smile rather than what makes you mad? The other amazing thing? 71% of people do not even finish the challenge. Why? They're too busy. I get that. Some weeks I don't have time to breathe. But taking 35 seconds to post a random picture to uplift and enlighten a social media audience? Eh - I should have the time to do that. Here's to #100HappyDays!
www.100happydays.com
Monday, September 1, 2014
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
But I'm Meant For More Than This....
Do you ever feel like you have been called to some great life? Or some achievement that will put you in the history books or cause some artist to cast your likeness in stone for posterity to admire? Your hopes and dreams might not be this crazy, but let's be honest - we all secretly wish to do some great thing in our lives that rises above. That singles us out. Don't get me wrong - there is nothing wrong with living and leaving a legacy. I know people who have done so (see the Legacy of Grace blog about Mom Mom) and would love to be able to leave just a bit of that in my lifetime.
But here's the deal: we get so caught up in waiting around for that "big dream" or "awesome calling" that God has in store for us that we completely miss stepping out to begin the journey. Instead of taking a small, single step to start, we want to leap across a chasm 100 feet wide. We need something that is worthy. That is big and awesome. Why? Why can't we see the small needs in front of us and start with them? Usually we feel those things are too small or insignificant - that they won't make a difference anyway. So why mess with the small stuff?
I remember walking home from school one day with my brother and discussing what I wanted to be when I grew up. It didn't really matter what industry I was going to be in, I was going to have the corner office with a view. I was gonna be be important. I was a little lofty in my aspirations, but when it came down to it, my desire was to make a difference somehow in the business world. Guess what I learned? You don't need a corner office to do that. You can influence anyone, anywhere, in any position by just being a team player. By helping them out or just speaking to them everyday. I don't need to be in the C-suite to be important or influential, you just need to respect others and treat them as you would like to be treated.
But I digress....
Then the summer of 2005 came around and (I still am amazed it happened) God called me to Ireland for a short-term missions trip. Ten days in Ireland on that mission and I just knew it. I was done. I had found my great calling. Ireland was it - I came home from that trip and was trying to figure out how to move there, freight my car over, and just start a completely new life. I was just going to up and go and the rest would figure itself out. God did definitely call me and I still have a heart for that beautiful country but guess what? I'm still living in Pennsylvania. I'm still pursuing my career. In ministry? Nope. The forklift industry. (Whaaaattttt???? yep) There is still involvement with the church in Ireland and I have not given up on my dreams, but God is still teaching me that He works on His time. Not mine. And He is slowing teaching me to be okay with that. I have been blessed beyond compare in my life and career here, so I am where He wants me to be.
This is the thing - when God calls us or gives us a vision for another country, we seem to think He is just going to hand us a care package and a plane ticket and send us there without any effort or care on our own part. A book I was reading said "God doesn't plant grand visions within us for our own entertainment. He does it to provoke us to grow up." As I look over the past few years, He has been showing me a lot about growing up. Three years ago I was moving forward with Ireland, I was researching work visas when He flipped the switch on me yet again. I was offered a promotion at work and I wasn't going to take it - I was going to go serve Jesus in Ireland and that was that. But He said no. Stay here. I have something else. And boy did He ever. I am still learning and working through just what He wants me to do here, but I do not regret the decision at all.
The moral of the story? Pay attention to the small things you are lead to do. The grand vision for your future is not as important as being obedient in the here and now. You just never know what other paths you will be lead down - because most of the time they reveal a vision greater than we could even have imagine. We just have to take the first steps to get there.
But here's the deal: we get so caught up in waiting around for that "big dream" or "awesome calling" that God has in store for us that we completely miss stepping out to begin the journey. Instead of taking a small, single step to start, we want to leap across a chasm 100 feet wide. We need something that is worthy. That is big and awesome. Why? Why can't we see the small needs in front of us and start with them? Usually we feel those things are too small or insignificant - that they won't make a difference anyway. So why mess with the small stuff?
I remember walking home from school one day with my brother and discussing what I wanted to be when I grew up. It didn't really matter what industry I was going to be in, I was going to have the corner office with a view. I was gonna be be important. I was a little lofty in my aspirations, but when it came down to it, my desire was to make a difference somehow in the business world. Guess what I learned? You don't need a corner office to do that. You can influence anyone, anywhere, in any position by just being a team player. By helping them out or just speaking to them everyday. I don't need to be in the C-suite to be important or influential, you just need to respect others and treat them as you would like to be treated.
But I digress....
Then the summer of 2005 came around and (I still am amazed it happened) God called me to Ireland for a short-term missions trip. Ten days in Ireland on that mission and I just knew it. I was done. I had found my great calling. Ireland was it - I came home from that trip and was trying to figure out how to move there, freight my car over, and just start a completely new life. I was just going to up and go and the rest would figure itself out. God did definitely call me and I still have a heart for that beautiful country but guess what? I'm still living in Pennsylvania. I'm still pursuing my career. In ministry? Nope. The forklift industry. (Whaaaattttt???? yep) There is still involvement with the church in Ireland and I have not given up on my dreams, but God is still teaching me that He works on His time. Not mine. And He is slowing teaching me to be okay with that. I have been blessed beyond compare in my life and career here, so I am where He wants me to be.
This is the thing - when God calls us or gives us a vision for another country, we seem to think He is just going to hand us a care package and a plane ticket and send us there without any effort or care on our own part. A book I was reading said "God doesn't plant grand visions within us for our own entertainment. He does it to provoke us to grow up." As I look over the past few years, He has been showing me a lot about growing up. Three years ago I was moving forward with Ireland, I was researching work visas when He flipped the switch on me yet again. I was offered a promotion at work and I wasn't going to take it - I was going to go serve Jesus in Ireland and that was that. But He said no. Stay here. I have something else. And boy did He ever. I am still learning and working through just what He wants me to do here, but I do not regret the decision at all.
The moral of the story? Pay attention to the small things you are lead to do. The grand vision for your future is not as important as being obedient in the here and now. You just never know what other paths you will be lead down - because most of the time they reveal a vision greater than we could even have imagine. We just have to take the first steps to get there.
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Experience Is The Best Teacher
A book I was reading recently had this little nugget inside - " Wisdom and learning come not from experience, but from our reactions to it". "Wow", I thought. "That's a great quote!" I'm a quote person, so naturally, I was a fan. There's a funny thing about quotes, though. Sometimes we repeat so many witty lines that we lose the brilliance of the quote in the first place. (Anyone who has had to live through my "bad joke of week" knows this is entirely possible.) In this case, quality, not quantity, makes a big difference. This is one of those quotes I actually read and then thought about.
As we get older, we tend to "treasure" our experiences more. Whether they were pleasant to live through or not, experience can be our best teacher. Key words? Can be. Do you know what the most amazing part of this is? We have a choice. A choice. To learn from the experience, or to merely survive it. To apply it to future circumstance, or to lose the lesson entirely. The pure elements of the experience become irrelevant in time. It is actually the attitude of our hearts that determines how our lives are impacted by our experiences. Are we too proud to admit we were wrong? Ashamed of how we handled our situation? Or do we chalk it up to experience and find a way to implement differently and do it better? Much better.
So, the next time after life throws you for a loop, remember the experience. Remember how you reacted, how you felt and more importantly, how you made others feel. Then decide if you handled it well and how you would like to handle it in the future. If you are not sure of the answers to these questions, ask someone who shared the experience with you. They are usually more than happy to share.
But the most important part? Live. Live your life. Gain experiences. Learn from them. You will screw up sometimes. Newsflash - that's part of life. But kick life in the pants by taking what she throws at you and hit that curve ball out of the park next time. How? Because you saw that pitch before. You experienced it.
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Me, Impress You?
Doesn't it always seem that we wait until something is bothering us that we tend to write about it? I often wondered why I didn't write in my journal when something good happens. Then I read an interview on Rob Thomas from Matchbox 20, where the interviewer asked him why all of his songs were about heartache and misery. He laughed and said, when good things are happening he was out enjoying life, not writing it down. I have always related to the depth of emotion in his writing, so that was something that always stuck with me. And it makes total sense, like right now.
I have been going through an interesting season of my life for the past year where I have literally and mentally have felt like I am growing up all over again. Or maybe just coming into my own. Whatever. The fact of the matter is, it is often painful to grow and to learn things about yourself that are not necessarily pretty or what you yourself were even aware existed. I do not regret the things I have learned, because they are molding me into a better person, but they can be painful just the same.
The past few weeks have been interesting in themselves and I seemed to be constantly trying to prove myself to others. I recently heard someone say they were treating their job like they were running for office instead of actually doing the job they already won. Unbelievably, I heard that story about six times before I had the grand epiphany that I was doing the exact same thing. I have been trying to prove to people I can do my job when I already am. I just need to go about doing it to the best of my ability and let them think what they will think.
This morning, I turned on the TV to watch the closing ceremonies for the Sochi Olympics and couldn't seem to find them anywhere. What I did find was Charles Stanley so I watched him for a few minutes. What happened was an open-heart surgery on me that I did not see coming. He was speaking about how we often act in ways that try and gain the approval of others. Whether it is how we dress, speak, act, or talk, we are always trying to make others like us. He pointed out that many people often are in our lives for short periods of time and we waste valuable time trying to please those who will not even be around in a few years. Most times they are the ones who really don't even care who we are or how we act. As he was speaking, I realized most of what I have been worrying about and beating myself up about (in regards to work drama) is mainly to gain approval or respect of those who really do not even care about me anyway. Why? What would it change in the grand scheme of things?
As Dr. Stanley then went on to say, we already have the approval of God. Not only does He love me, but He likes me. He delights in me. Especially when I am not ignoring Him (as I too often do) and actually aiming to spend time with Him. So, if I already have the approval and the eye of the Creator of the Universe, who am I to dwell in the fear of non-approval of those around me? Why shouldn't I go about my business as if I belong there? Because, the fact is, I do. I have worked my butt off to get where I am and to continue my education in my job to become better at it. If someone is trying to slander me and bring me down, who am I to fear them when I have the Protector of the ages on my side?
I have definitely grown up a lot and become a much more secure person in the last few years, but these past few months have shown that I have some more refining in store. Does it hurt? Sure. Is it mentally draining? You bet. But just think about what is in store - God always has a purpose for putting us through the paces. I am looking forward to seeing what is around the bend and not as scared to think what it is going to take to get there. Because I know I don't need to gain the approval of every last person to do so. I already have the one I need - and that is the only one that really matters anyway.
I have been going through an interesting season of my life for the past year where I have literally and mentally have felt like I am growing up all over again. Or maybe just coming into my own. Whatever. The fact of the matter is, it is often painful to grow and to learn things about yourself that are not necessarily pretty or what you yourself were even aware existed. I do not regret the things I have learned, because they are molding me into a better person, but they can be painful just the same.
The past few weeks have been interesting in themselves and I seemed to be constantly trying to prove myself to others. I recently heard someone say they were treating their job like they were running for office instead of actually doing the job they already won. Unbelievably, I heard that story about six times before I had the grand epiphany that I was doing the exact same thing. I have been trying to prove to people I can do my job when I already am. I just need to go about doing it to the best of my ability and let them think what they will think.
This morning, I turned on the TV to watch the closing ceremonies for the Sochi Olympics and couldn't seem to find them anywhere. What I did find was Charles Stanley so I watched him for a few minutes. What happened was an open-heart surgery on me that I did not see coming. He was speaking about how we often act in ways that try and gain the approval of others. Whether it is how we dress, speak, act, or talk, we are always trying to make others like us. He pointed out that many people often are in our lives for short periods of time and we waste valuable time trying to please those who will not even be around in a few years. Most times they are the ones who really don't even care who we are or how we act. As he was speaking, I realized most of what I have been worrying about and beating myself up about (in regards to work drama) is mainly to gain approval or respect of those who really do not even care about me anyway. Why? What would it change in the grand scheme of things?
As Dr. Stanley then went on to say, we already have the approval of God. Not only does He love me, but He likes me. He delights in me. Especially when I am not ignoring Him (as I too often do) and actually aiming to spend time with Him. So, if I already have the approval and the eye of the Creator of the Universe, who am I to dwell in the fear of non-approval of those around me? Why shouldn't I go about my business as if I belong there? Because, the fact is, I do. I have worked my butt off to get where I am and to continue my education in my job to become better at it. If someone is trying to slander me and bring me down, who am I to fear them when I have the Protector of the ages on my side?
I have definitely grown up a lot and become a much more secure person in the last few years, but these past few months have shown that I have some more refining in store. Does it hurt? Sure. Is it mentally draining? You bet. But just think about what is in store - God always has a purpose for putting us through the paces. I am looking forward to seeing what is around the bend and not as scared to think what it is going to take to get there. Because I know I don't need to gain the approval of every last person to do so. I already have the one I need - and that is the only one that really matters anyway.
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
And I thought I had a clue...
Yep. Just like life. When you think you have something figured out and think you are in somewhat of a good place, Chicken Little comes streaming through your happy dance and the whole friggin world starts throwing clouds at you. And not the big fluffy ones either - the not-so-dark ones that happen to hide a bazillion gallons of rain in them.
A few weeks ago I came back from a conference with an idea of what I wanted to move towards and somewhat of a plan of how to accomplish it. That dream is by no means dead, but it sure turned from sliding down a golden rainbow to the typical wake-up-screaming scenario. Maybe I'm exaggerating a little bit here (those who know me well will say "really!" and throw an eye-roll in there somewhere. My life is not over so I'll cut the drama now. It's just that sometimes you didn't know how big of a hole you were waltzing towards in your euphoric state and now you need to construct a plan to climb out.
Step one of recovery is recognizing you have a problem so i guess that's where I'm at right now. I have some challenges to overcome in my professional life but they are manageable. The goals are still attainable. If nothing else, I will have a massive growing/learning period where I will glean the knowledge that only experience can teach you. So, not all is lost by any sense of the means.
This whole situation/tirade can be turned around with a simple line....
It is God who arms me with strength, And makes my way perfect. Psalm 18:32
I tend to go through spurts where I think that I am the only one who needs to carry me and that I make these rock-awesome decisions and therefore my life is awesome as it is and I don't need any help. And then weeks like these happen and my mortality is thrown at me like a ton of bricks - I'm just a little girl in a big scary world and who the heck am i kidding? I can barely make good time-management decisions at home, let alone at work.
Life has an uncanny way of reminding us how much we really do need to depend on Jesus and how if, when we do surrender to Him, He gives us peace and clarity and shows us where He wants us to go. God is not a get-out-of jail-free card to problems and struggles in life and should never be treated as such.
Then there are times like these when I am realize I need to humble myself, ask for forgiveness, die to self, let go of the wheel and throw myself into the arms of the One who wants to, is able to, and will direct my life. You'd think I would have learned this lesson by now, but its amazing what happens when we let ourselves in and push God out.
I'm done and I'm His. It's so simple.
Someone recently told me to ask God one question every morning. "What would you have me do today?" Today. Simple. Just one day at a time. Walking in the way He leads....one never knows just where they'll end up. But there is one thing we can be sure of - we won't be there alone.
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do
not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
A few weeks ago I came back from a conference with an idea of what I wanted to move towards and somewhat of a plan of how to accomplish it. That dream is by no means dead, but it sure turned from sliding down a golden rainbow to the typical wake-up-screaming scenario. Maybe I'm exaggerating a little bit here (those who know me well will say "really!" and throw an eye-roll in there somewhere. My life is not over so I'll cut the drama now. It's just that sometimes you didn't know how big of a hole you were waltzing towards in your euphoric state and now you need to construct a plan to climb out.
Step one of recovery is recognizing you have a problem so i guess that's where I'm at right now. I have some challenges to overcome in my professional life but they are manageable. The goals are still attainable. If nothing else, I will have a massive growing/learning period where I will glean the knowledge that only experience can teach you. So, not all is lost by any sense of the means.
This whole situation/tirade can be turned around with a simple line....
It is God who arms me with strength, And makes my way perfect. Psalm 18:32
I tend to go through spurts where I think that I am the only one who needs to carry me and that I make these rock-awesome decisions and therefore my life is awesome as it is and I don't need any help. And then weeks like these happen and my mortality is thrown at me like a ton of bricks - I'm just a little girl in a big scary world and who the heck am i kidding? I can barely make good time-management decisions at home, let alone at work.
Life has an uncanny way of reminding us how much we really do need to depend on Jesus and how if, when we do surrender to Him, He gives us peace and clarity and shows us where He wants us to go. God is not a get-out-of jail-free card to problems and struggles in life and should never be treated as such.
Then there are times like these when I am realize I need to humble myself, ask for forgiveness, die to self, let go of the wheel and throw myself into the arms of the One who wants to, is able to, and will direct my life. You'd think I would have learned this lesson by now, but its amazing what happens when we let ourselves in and push God out.
I'm done and I'm His. It's so simple.
Someone recently told me to ask God one question every morning. "What would you have me do today?" Today. Simple. Just one day at a time. Walking in the way He leads....one never knows just where they'll end up. But there is one thing we can be sure of - we won't be there alone.
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do
not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Another Twist In The Journey
You know how it is when you think you've sort of figured out what you're supposed to do in life, make some decisions to move forward, and then the script is just flipped on you? That what you thought was next is placed on the back burner and something else takes its place?
I have been in this uncanny position a few times in the past two years. More so than I had envisioned for myself but I have come to learn that this is just how life works. And the amazing thing is - as scary as some of these events are, they are in themselves, very exciting.
Why are these things scary? Well for one, we don't always know what is going to happen or how successful we may be in this venture. Another nuance comes with destiny - is this what God wants me to do? Is this what I was meant for? What if I do this and miss my chance at something else?
Inevitably, we come to some sort of decision we usually feel is the right one and move forward with it, embracing whatever life throws in along with it. In the weeks and months that follow, we may waver back and forth between whether it was a good or bad decision, but years later we usually figure out it worked toward our advantage.
A few years ago I was well on my way to an exciting journey of faith and though a bit scared, I was excited to embark on this new path and was making plans to move forward with it. Then, out of left field, another opportunity presented itself and although it was something I had been waiting for, I was was entirely unprepared for it to happen at that time. It threw me into a week of uncertainty, but I came out of it with the complete certainty of what decision to make. I can definitely tell you that had I not had the complete confidence of what God wanted me to do, the next 12 months would have been even more challenging than they were. Situations arose where I simply had to cling to the fact that I was in the right place and God would bring me through it. And, of course, He did. In ways I could not even imagine.
Now, there seems to be another type of shift on the horizon. I am starting to realize just why God wanted me to stay here now. I do not really have specifics yet, but I have the overwhelming feeling I am in the right place at the right time. At least for now - and I'm starting to get a vision of what is coming. It's still uncertain but it's definitely scary. Scary because it's exciting. Scary because it could just be something that I'm really going to love.
This is all to say that God is still trying to teach me that His timing is perfect. And that He really does want to bless me exceedingly abundantly above. No matter how many times I tend to forget. Right now I really don't know just how things are going to turn out, but I have every confidence that God is not going to lead me somewhere where He is not going to bring me through. He has proved himself true on this account too many times for me to doubt Him now. No matter how hard things may seem in a few weeks.
So for those of you who are in a holding pattern - or not sure what is coming next - hold out, ask for guidance, and wait to see what He does. If He brought you there, He will get you through. If He did not, He will show you a way out. I for one am very excited to see what He is going to do in our lives.
But my God will supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. ~ Phillip 4:19
I have been in this uncanny position a few times in the past two years. More so than I had envisioned for myself but I have come to learn that this is just how life works. And the amazing thing is - as scary as some of these events are, they are in themselves, very exciting.
Why are these things scary? Well for one, we don't always know what is going to happen or how successful we may be in this venture. Another nuance comes with destiny - is this what God wants me to do? Is this what I was meant for? What if I do this and miss my chance at something else?
Inevitably, we come to some sort of decision we usually feel is the right one and move forward with it, embracing whatever life throws in along with it. In the weeks and months that follow, we may waver back and forth between whether it was a good or bad decision, but years later we usually figure out it worked toward our advantage.
A few years ago I was well on my way to an exciting journey of faith and though a bit scared, I was excited to embark on this new path and was making plans to move forward with it. Then, out of left field, another opportunity presented itself and although it was something I had been waiting for, I was was entirely unprepared for it to happen at that time. It threw me into a week of uncertainty, but I came out of it with the complete certainty of what decision to make. I can definitely tell you that had I not had the complete confidence of what God wanted me to do, the next 12 months would have been even more challenging than they were. Situations arose where I simply had to cling to the fact that I was in the right place and God would bring me through it. And, of course, He did. In ways I could not even imagine.
Now, there seems to be another type of shift on the horizon. I am starting to realize just why God wanted me to stay here now. I do not really have specifics yet, but I have the overwhelming feeling I am in the right place at the right time. At least for now - and I'm starting to get a vision of what is coming. It's still uncertain but it's definitely scary. Scary because it's exciting. Scary because it could just be something that I'm really going to love.
This is all to say that God is still trying to teach me that His timing is perfect. And that He really does want to bless me exceedingly abundantly above. No matter how many times I tend to forget. Right now I really don't know just how things are going to turn out, but I have every confidence that God is not going to lead me somewhere where He is not going to bring me through. He has proved himself true on this account too many times for me to doubt Him now. No matter how hard things may seem in a few weeks.
So for those of you who are in a holding pattern - or not sure what is coming next - hold out, ask for guidance, and wait to see what He does. If He brought you there, He will get you through. If He did not, He will show you a way out. I for one am very excited to see what He is going to do in our lives.
But my God will supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. ~ Phillip 4:19
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Just When I Forget Who He Is....
The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup;
you hold my lot.
The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.
(Psalm 16:5-6 ESV)
I read this verse a few weeks ago and thought "this is really cool - I should remember this one". Would that I had over the past week or so! It is simply amazing the ways God leads us and what He has for us sometimes. And mostly when we don't even realize it.
What does it mean that the Lord is my chosen portion and cup? Really? I am claiming Jesus here and thanking God that He has given me Christ. That my cup is full and it will be to overflowing.
But this week the "you hold my lot" part means the most. It is in the times of uncertainty and trial that we go running back to God jumping up and down saying "remember me? remember me?" Well, that may be a bit extreme but you get the point. When there is something going on or something we are trying to accomplish and things aren't going the way we want, it is more than reassuring to know that the God of the universe "holds my lot". In Philly words, He's got my back.
So, then begs the question - why the heck do I worry so much? I'm going its because I'm wired that way but there is a little more to it. Life throws us some pretty big decisions and a curve ball or two. It is then and there when we have to decide if we're going to step up to the plate or just let it go by us. I'm horrible at baseball but I will tell you I'd rather be the one swinging than the one too scared to move my bat. It's all too often I am the latter (not to be confused with batter LOL) but God is working on me.
Ask my family - I used to be scared to buy milk. It's a weird long story but just take it from me that I've come a long way in the scaredy-cat department.
Anyway, back to the verse. I am going to rest in the belief that the lines HAVE fell for me in pleasant places and am looking forward to the beautiful inheritance Sometimes we need to get our worried eyes off the two feet in front of us and take a look up to the One who not only sees the entire path, but who is actually drawing it for us. When we let Him do that, the lines really do fall in pleasant places.
Now, if I could just remember to do this....
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
A Legacy of Grace
Five days before Christmas a very great lady finished her race and walked into the arms of Jesus. She was surrounded by her husband of 60+ years and her nine children. PopPop held her hand and said "I Love You" and she answered him back "I Love You, Too" shortly before she passed away. This woman, Grace Heilman, left behind a husband, nine children and their spouses, 59 grandchildren and assorted significant others, and 32 great-grandchildren (with two more on the way). Family, friends, relatives, and acquaintances all came to pay their respects - most of whom mentioned what a great lady she was. And they were all right. But the amazing thing? I don't think any of us fully comprehend just what an "Amazing Grace" she was. Speaking of "Amazing Grace", it really was her favorite song. PopPop reminded me how one of her favorite lyrics was "When we've been there thousand years....we've only just begun". It's true, I remember her telling us about it and saying "Can you just imagine? 10,000 years and it's just like one day!" Well MomMom, you don't have to imagine it anymore - you're living it!
Because MomMom just didn't leave people behind - she left memories, lessons, and love behind. I don't think one of us grandchildren ever got away from seeing her without a great big hug and a "do you want some ice cream and pretzels?" She loved us all - and even though our family grew in exponential fashion, she didn't change. Her love multiplied right along with the rest of us. And we are a crazy, awesome, energetic bunch - but she never said a bad word about any of us. She may have corrected us and tried to help us through things, but I personally never remember anything bad she ever said about me. Unless you count the time when she said she liked hugging me and my brother best because "we were just like big pillows!" haha - but what can I say - she was right!
Over the last few weeks a lot of our family has been reminiscing about MomMom and all the wonderful things she did or said, or all of the funny things that happened. One of my favorite stories is the one PopPop tells about how he knew MomMom was "the one" for him. They were young and at a church picnic playing softball. It must have been summertime because they were all in their bathing suits. MomMom bent over to field a ball and PopPop said she was wearing a red suit so it looked like a big red heart when she bent over. And he was hooked! I remember when Lynn and Ryan got engaged and I went over to MomMom and PopPops with them when they broke the good news. PopPop told us that story then and had us all laughing. MomMom just looked at him with that big smile she always had for him and said "Oh, Niss....". There are varying reports of the actual truth to that story - but we like to think its true just the same. Because we can all see it happening ;)
Momma reminded so many of us of something during the funeral - MomMom had 59 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren and she said all of them were grand! MomMom was like that - she thought the world of each and every one of us and loved us like we were the only ones in the world.
In the midst of all this reminiscing and over a few talks with my mom, I began to realize that MomMom fulfilled some of the scripture she loved so much. There is a lot of talk about being "good Christian women" and "becoming a P31 (proverbs 31 woman)" in our churches, but there are not a lot of real, live, existing examples for us to follow. But, not to worry, we found one. MomMom. Grace Heilman was a real P31 and I would like to show you how.
Proverbs 31: 10-11
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
Ok, visit PopPop. Ask him if he thinks MomMom was worth more than rubies. If she was rare and priceless. He will vehemently state she was worth more than any of the riches in the world. Then ask him if he trusted her. Not only with taking care of his family and house and finances, but with everything. And fidelity She would never have even dreamed of cheating on him - their love was true and lasting. Just ask him. See what he says. Ask any one of the aunts and uncles for that matter. They'll tell you. And for those of you who cannot ask - take it from a hopeless romantic grandchild - he loved her above anything else and she loved him right back to overflowing.
Verse 12
She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
My notes in my Bible says this is for all seasons of life - and no one can deny she did this. She served PopPop all through their marriage with love and commitment. She cooked, cleaned, did 845,687 loads of laundry and took care of the family. She nursed them when they were sick, helped them through childbirth and raising their kids. And for the last five years, MomMom was the main caretaker of PopPop. Due to his health, PopPop was house bound and needed lots of care. Six or some months ago, he suffered a nasty fall and was flat on his back for about five months. Although her kids told her to slow down, she selflessly took care of PopPop - even to where it wore her out. She definitely did him good all the days of her life.
Verse 13
She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
MomMom loved to take us to pick berries and peaches and such. I know she took a lot of us various different places and I remember she took Tammy and I blueberry picking and maybe even strawberry picking. Berries, peaches, cherries, tomatoes ..she picked them all! As for her hands, only Jesus knows exactly how many meals they prepared, clothes they folded, tears they dried and hands they clasped. MomMom's hands were full of life - literally. She acted as midwife for almost all of us grandchildren, some of the great-grandchildren, and helped out countless other women give birth. If the lines in her hands could only speak I'm sure we would be astounded by the things the "right hand hid from the left"
Verse 14
She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
MomMom was a very generous woman and had a heart for those in need. She made meals for those who were sick or grieving helped out at various events, and even used to go grocery shopping for a neighbor who didn't always appreciate her. She catered to a lot of peoples' needs and was often the hands and feet of Jesus to those who needed it.
Verse 15
She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
With a big family, it is almost necessary to rise before the sunrise and start preparing for the day. I remember being at the house on 70th avenue in the big kitchen and watching MomMom rinse out the boys' lunchboxes and line them up for the next day. Momma said that when she was working, she would come home at the end of the day with the rest of the working kids at that time, and PopPop, and MomMom would always have supper ready and waiting for them.
Verse 16
She considereth a field, and buyeth it, with the fruit of her hand she planteth a vineyard.
MomMom always had some sort of a garden growing with vegetables of all sorts. She planted flowers and and had a lot of plants in her house. She loved to help things grow. She passed that along to some of her children as well. Momma loves to grow things and has lots of plants everywhere. I know Uncle Dean has a lot as well. The others may have some and I just don't remember - sorry guys :)
Verse 17
She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengthened her arms.
I'm not sure MomMom ever out-lifted Hulk Hogan or anything, but she was always trying to "lose 10 lbs or so" and did some walking. But I think this verse it a little deeper and is speaking about spiritual strength. MomMom loved many of the Psalms but one of her favorites was Psalm 121. Here is where she found her strength....
I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. Psalm 121: 1-2
Verse 18
She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
I'm not sure how it was in the early years, but MomMom was up late a lot that I can remember. She loved when people would come to visit (and often told us how long it had been since our last one ;) and stayed up late talking to us or with PopPop when they were alone. She also would read her Bible every night and every morning. Again, MomMom, you're slaying me here but I promise to do better.
Verse 19
She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
MomMom always had a sewing machine for as long as I can remember. She made lots of clothes and helped many people make their own as well - including some wedding dresses. She also taught my momma to sew. Mom made lots of our clothes growing up and some of her own as well. She made a beautiful peach dress for the cruise her and Dad went on, as well as a gorgeous red one for Tammy's wedding. Mom also used her sewing prowess to open up her own business - Grace Irene Window Fashions! (and yes, mom is named after MomMom. They are both Grace Irene.)
Verse 20
She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
MomMom and PopPop were always taking care of people. Whether by showing up and helping someone move, letting people live with them because they had to move, making meals and all sorts of things like that. They also gave to a lot of charities. Where do you think the stuffed bear and stuffed buffalo on the living room table came from? The Indian Youth Association! I really don't think we'll really ever know just how many people they helped through various means, money or otherwise. It really doesn't matter. But what does matter is that we pay it forward. That we use their example and do good to others. For personal glory? Nope. Because Jesus said to help the poor and the needy and that He loved them just as much as the richest man in the world. MomMom and PopPop both would tell you that all day long. So honor them and God and give to those in need. For HIS glory, not yours.
Verse 21
She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
I'm not sure how she did it, but I'm sure she came up with interesting ways to make sure all the kids were clothed well, even in the cold weather.
Verse 22
She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
Do you guys remember MomMom's long purple winter coat and big purple hat she used to wear to church? They were beautiful! She really did love purple - and I think that's why Momma loves it too. They both wear it well.
Verse 23
Her husband is known in the gates, where he sitteth among the elders of the land.
Whether in business or in the church, PopPop was well known and held many positions of authority. He worked very hard to provide for MomMom and the rest of the family. However, I often wondered why this verse is in the virtuous woman passage, but I think I figured it out people! You know what they say, "Behind every great man is a great woman"! On a serious note, I did find one of my notes where it says this verse is about how she understands the calling on her life and on that of her husband - and she acts accordingly. MomMom sure did that.
Verse 24
She maketh fine linen, and selleth it: and delivereth girdles to the merchant.
MomMom sure did make a lot of fine things, but knowing her, she would have given them away instead of selling them. And I'm pretty sure she didn't deliver any girdles to the merchant - unless she was taking them back!
Verse 25
Strength and honor are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
Character is what makes a person who he or she is. Let's not forget her example to us - she did wear strength I never thought of MomMom as weak. Even the last few weeks when she was confined to a bed, she didn't seem weak. Oh she sure looked weak, but then she would look up and begin to speak and the strength of her years and her faith were behind it. She was a tiny little thing when she passed away - but with a giant heart that never faded away. And honor? Her whole life was an honor - to God. And that is something we should all strive for. It would be honoring her and her life example if we did.
Verse 26
She openeth her mouth with wisdom: and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
Almost everything MomMom said had a lesson behind it, whether she was telling a story, passing along news, or just teaching us something. She never spoke evil of anyone and always searched for the good in others. In this she slays me - I am so glad for her example of this because I fail miserably at it and I'm glad to have known someone who actually did it. And did it well. Maybe she can be one of my angels and help me hold my tongue ;)
Verse 27
She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
Cooking, cleaning, scrubbing loving, nurturing blessing; there were many ways she took care of her household. She was always doing something - even if she was sitting down. She was exercising her thumbs!!
Verse 28
Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
Just from the pure fact that all nine of them were surrounding her when she went to heaven, not to mention all the lovely things they did or said about her, all of her children do call her blessed. And PopPop? He knows it more than anyone else and will praise her to anyone and everyone.
Verse 29
Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou exceedeth them all.
You know what's funny? I can almost picture Jesus saying these words to MomMom when He took her into heaven. And do I believe He personally came to get her Himself? Absolutely. Without a doubt. He was welcoming one of His most virtuous daughters into His home. I'm bawling here just imagining it, but I truly believe this. She was Grace. She was grace. Personified.
Verse 30
Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
Favor is the opinion of man and beauty will fade, but her countenance shined from within. Her heart shined before others and it shone as beauty. The secret to her virtue was that she feared God, she really did. He provided the increase from there. She did all things to honor God - no matter what earthly person she was actually doing it for. And she shall indeed be praised for that.
Verse 31
Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
I think Solomon was talking about earthly fruits and the gates of the city in this verse and its true that MomMom did receive earthly praise for the works of her hands. But I can only imagine the rejoicing in heaven for one such as she who came through the gates. That she was proclaimed for her works and that she received a load of rewards at the Bema seat.
Grace Irene Richardson Heilman sure did leave a legacy of grace. Not just in actual Graces - because there are a lot of people named after her (Grace Irene (mom), Jaclyn Grace, Kathleen Grace, Graceanne and some others I'm not entirely sure of) - but in love. MomMom did a great many works in her life and they were all to honor the Lord. Not to get her into heaven, because her faith and acceptance of Jesus did that, but to honor her God and to help those that she loved.
During the last few weeks of her life, MomMom needed a lot of care. Many of her children pitched in and served her, slept over, fed her and took care of her needs - basic and otherwise. Every time she asked someone to do something, she said "I'm sorry, I'm sorry". She didn't want to be a burden and she was so used to taking care of things herself, so she felt terrible asking others for help. But, it wasn't a chore to them - it was a pleasure. Melanie and I went to visit MomMom and PopPop one night in early December. We had a nice little visit with both of them and although she couldn't talk much, she asked about us and our lives and how we were doing. She apologized for not getting us snack and wanted to know if we "wanted crackers and cheese or something". We were amazed! This woman who could barely turn over by herself wanted to get us snack. She truly had a servants heart.
One of the nights my mom slept over she was reading MomMom her Bible. She was reading John 14 to her as she thought it was something she would like to hear. She hadn't made it through too much of "In my father's house are many mansions" John 14: 2a before MomMom stopped her and asked her to read Psalm 23. As mom started reading The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. Psalms 23:1, it was like MomMom couldn't wait for her to get to the end. Mom was a little surprised until she realized what she was waiting for. MomMom wanted to hear the last verse. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. Psalms 23:6. Mom said MomMom could barely speak but she kept repeating that line: "and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever". When Uncle Mart and Uncle Wayne came up, she repeated the same thing to them: "and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever". You know why? Because she knew exactly where she was going. To heaven. To see her Saviour.
Her legacy is also a challenge - for those of us who have been loved and touched by her and her kindness in some way, we are left with the task of "taking up the mantle". Of continuing her work and glorifying God in it. MomMom gave us a lot of love and a lot of examples of how to really become a Proverbs 31 woman. She probably never even realized she was one. She just did it. She lived her life loving her God, her husband, her family and her fellow man. So, her daughters, granddaughters, great-granddaughters, and others - let's do this. Let's take her example and attempt to live a life pleasing to God as a Proverbs 31 woman. Not because the church says so. Not to gain a husband (in some of our cases) and not for personal glory. But because it would glorify our father and we can all become virtuous daughters. And in doing so we would not just be honoring God - we would be lengthening her legacy. A Legacy of Grace.
Because MomMom just didn't leave people behind - she left memories, lessons, and love behind. I don't think one of us grandchildren ever got away from seeing her without a great big hug and a "do you want some ice cream and pretzels?" She loved us all - and even though our family grew in exponential fashion, she didn't change. Her love multiplied right along with the rest of us. And we are a crazy, awesome, energetic bunch - but she never said a bad word about any of us. She may have corrected us and tried to help us through things, but I personally never remember anything bad she ever said about me. Unless you count the time when she said she liked hugging me and my brother best because "we were just like big pillows!" haha - but what can I say - she was right!
Over the last few weeks a lot of our family has been reminiscing about MomMom and all the wonderful things she did or said, or all of the funny things that happened. One of my favorite stories is the one PopPop tells about how he knew MomMom was "the one" for him. They were young and at a church picnic playing softball. It must have been summertime because they were all in their bathing suits. MomMom bent over to field a ball and PopPop said she was wearing a red suit so it looked like a big red heart when she bent over. And he was hooked! I remember when Lynn and Ryan got engaged and I went over to MomMom and PopPops with them when they broke the good news. PopPop told us that story then and had us all laughing. MomMom just looked at him with that big smile she always had for him and said "Oh, Niss....". There are varying reports of the actual truth to that story - but we like to think its true just the same. Because we can all see it happening ;)
Momma reminded so many of us of something during the funeral - MomMom had 59 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren and she said all of them were grand! MomMom was like that - she thought the world of each and every one of us and loved us like we were the only ones in the world.
In the midst of all this reminiscing and over a few talks with my mom, I began to realize that MomMom fulfilled some of the scripture she loved so much. There is a lot of talk about being "good Christian women" and "becoming a P31 (proverbs 31 woman)" in our churches, but there are not a lot of real, live, existing examples for us to follow. But, not to worry, we found one. MomMom. Grace Heilman was a real P31 and I would like to show you how.
Proverbs 31: 10-11
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
Ok, visit PopPop. Ask him if he thinks MomMom was worth more than rubies. If she was rare and priceless. He will vehemently state she was worth more than any of the riches in the world. Then ask him if he trusted her. Not only with taking care of his family and house and finances, but with everything. And fidelity She would never have even dreamed of cheating on him - their love was true and lasting. Just ask him. See what he says. Ask any one of the aunts and uncles for that matter. They'll tell you. And for those of you who cannot ask - take it from a hopeless romantic grandchild - he loved her above anything else and she loved him right back to overflowing.
Verse 12
She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
My notes in my Bible says this is for all seasons of life - and no one can deny she did this. She served PopPop all through their marriage with love and commitment. She cooked, cleaned, did 845,687 loads of laundry and took care of the family. She nursed them when they were sick, helped them through childbirth and raising their kids. And for the last five years, MomMom was the main caretaker of PopPop. Due to his health, PopPop was house bound and needed lots of care. Six or some months ago, he suffered a nasty fall and was flat on his back for about five months. Although her kids told her to slow down, she selflessly took care of PopPop - even to where it wore her out. She definitely did him good all the days of her life.
Verse 13
She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
MomMom loved to take us to pick berries and peaches and such. I know she took a lot of us various different places and I remember she took Tammy and I blueberry picking and maybe even strawberry picking. Berries, peaches, cherries, tomatoes ..she picked them all! As for her hands, only Jesus knows exactly how many meals they prepared, clothes they folded, tears they dried and hands they clasped. MomMom's hands were full of life - literally. She acted as midwife for almost all of us grandchildren, some of the great-grandchildren, and helped out countless other women give birth. If the lines in her hands could only speak I'm sure we would be astounded by the things the "right hand hid from the left"
Verse 14
She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
MomMom was a very generous woman and had a heart for those in need. She made meals for those who were sick or grieving helped out at various events, and even used to go grocery shopping for a neighbor who didn't always appreciate her. She catered to a lot of peoples' needs and was often the hands and feet of Jesus to those who needed it.
Verse 15
She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
With a big family, it is almost necessary to rise before the sunrise and start preparing for the day. I remember being at the house on 70th avenue in the big kitchen and watching MomMom rinse out the boys' lunchboxes and line them up for the next day. Momma said that when she was working, she would come home at the end of the day with the rest of the working kids at that time, and PopPop, and MomMom would always have supper ready and waiting for them.
She considereth a field, and buyeth it, with the fruit of her hand she planteth a vineyard.
MomMom always had some sort of a garden growing with vegetables of all sorts. She planted flowers and and had a lot of plants in her house. She loved to help things grow. She passed that along to some of her children as well. Momma loves to grow things and has lots of plants everywhere. I know Uncle Dean has a lot as well. The others may have some and I just don't remember - sorry guys :)
Verse 17
She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengthened her arms.
I'm not sure MomMom ever out-lifted Hulk Hogan or anything, but she was always trying to "lose 10 lbs or so" and did some walking. But I think this verse it a little deeper and is speaking about spiritual strength. MomMom loved many of the Psalms but one of her favorites was Psalm 121. Here is where she found her strength....
I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. Psalm 121: 1-2
Verse 18
She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
I'm not sure how it was in the early years, but MomMom was up late a lot that I can remember. She loved when people would come to visit (and often told us how long it had been since our last one ;) and stayed up late talking to us or with PopPop when they were alone. She also would read her Bible every night and every morning. Again, MomMom, you're slaying me here but I promise to do better.
Verse 19
She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
MomMom always had a sewing machine for as long as I can remember. She made lots of clothes and helped many people make their own as well - including some wedding dresses. She also taught my momma to sew. Mom made lots of our clothes growing up and some of her own as well. She made a beautiful peach dress for the cruise her and Dad went on, as well as a gorgeous red one for Tammy's wedding. Mom also used her sewing prowess to open up her own business - Grace Irene Window Fashions! (and yes, mom is named after MomMom. They are both Grace Irene.)
Verse 20
She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
MomMom and PopPop were always taking care of people. Whether by showing up and helping someone move, letting people live with them because they had to move, making meals and all sorts of things like that. They also gave to a lot of charities. Where do you think the stuffed bear and stuffed buffalo on the living room table came from? The Indian Youth Association! I really don't think we'll really ever know just how many people they helped through various means, money or otherwise. It really doesn't matter. But what does matter is that we pay it forward. That we use their example and do good to others. For personal glory? Nope. Because Jesus said to help the poor and the needy and that He loved them just as much as the richest man in the world. MomMom and PopPop both would tell you that all day long. So honor them and God and give to those in need. For HIS glory, not yours.
Verse 21
She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
I'm not sure how she did it, but I'm sure she came up with interesting ways to make sure all the kids were clothed well, even in the cold weather.
Verse 22
She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
Do you guys remember MomMom's long purple winter coat and big purple hat she used to wear to church? They were beautiful! She really did love purple - and I think that's why Momma loves it too. They both wear it well.
Verse 23
Her husband is known in the gates, where he sitteth among the elders of the land.
Whether in business or in the church, PopPop was well known and held many positions of authority. He worked very hard to provide for MomMom and the rest of the family. However, I often wondered why this verse is in the virtuous woman passage, but I think I figured it out people! You know what they say, "Behind every great man is a great woman"! On a serious note, I did find one of my notes where it says this verse is about how she understands the calling on her life and on that of her husband - and she acts accordingly. MomMom sure did that.
Verse 24
She maketh fine linen, and selleth it: and delivereth girdles to the merchant.
MomMom sure did make a lot of fine things, but knowing her, she would have given them away instead of selling them. And I'm pretty sure she didn't deliver any girdles to the merchant - unless she was taking them back!
Verse 25
Strength and honor are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
Character is what makes a person who he or she is. Let's not forget her example to us - she did wear strength I never thought of MomMom as weak. Even the last few weeks when she was confined to a bed, she didn't seem weak. Oh she sure looked weak, but then she would look up and begin to speak and the strength of her years and her faith were behind it. She was a tiny little thing when she passed away - but with a giant heart that never faded away. And honor? Her whole life was an honor - to God. And that is something we should all strive for. It would be honoring her and her life example if we did.
Verse 26
She openeth her mouth with wisdom: and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
Almost everything MomMom said had a lesson behind it, whether she was telling a story, passing along news, or just teaching us something. She never spoke evil of anyone and always searched for the good in others. In this she slays me - I am so glad for her example of this because I fail miserably at it and I'm glad to have known someone who actually did it. And did it well. Maybe she can be one of my angels and help me hold my tongue ;)
Verse 27
She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
Cooking, cleaning, scrubbing loving, nurturing blessing; there were many ways she took care of her household. She was always doing something - even if she was sitting down. She was exercising her thumbs!!
Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
Just from the pure fact that all nine of them were surrounding her when she went to heaven, not to mention all the lovely things they did or said about her, all of her children do call her blessed. And PopPop? He knows it more than anyone else and will praise her to anyone and everyone.
Verse 29
Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou exceedeth them all.
You know what's funny? I can almost picture Jesus saying these words to MomMom when He took her into heaven. And do I believe He personally came to get her Himself? Absolutely. Without a doubt. He was welcoming one of His most virtuous daughters into His home. I'm bawling here just imagining it, but I truly believe this. She was Grace. She was grace. Personified.
Verse 30
Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
Favor is the opinion of man and beauty will fade, but her countenance shined from within. Her heart shined before others and it shone as beauty. The secret to her virtue was that she feared God, she really did. He provided the increase from there. She did all things to honor God - no matter what earthly person she was actually doing it for. And she shall indeed be praised for that.
Verse 31
Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
I think Solomon was talking about earthly fruits and the gates of the city in this verse and its true that MomMom did receive earthly praise for the works of her hands. But I can only imagine the rejoicing in heaven for one such as she who came through the gates. That she was proclaimed for her works and that she received a load of rewards at the Bema seat.
Grace Irene Richardson Heilman sure did leave a legacy of grace. Not just in actual Graces - because there are a lot of people named after her (Grace Irene (mom), Jaclyn Grace, Kathleen Grace, Graceanne and some others I'm not entirely sure of) - but in love. MomMom did a great many works in her life and they were all to honor the Lord. Not to get her into heaven, because her faith and acceptance of Jesus did that, but to honor her God and to help those that she loved.
During the last few weeks of her life, MomMom needed a lot of care. Many of her children pitched in and served her, slept over, fed her and took care of her needs - basic and otherwise. Every time she asked someone to do something, she said "I'm sorry, I'm sorry". She didn't want to be a burden and she was so used to taking care of things herself, so she felt terrible asking others for help. But, it wasn't a chore to them - it was a pleasure. Melanie and I went to visit MomMom and PopPop one night in early December. We had a nice little visit with both of them and although she couldn't talk much, she asked about us and our lives and how we were doing. She apologized for not getting us snack and wanted to know if we "wanted crackers and cheese or something". We were amazed! This woman who could barely turn over by herself wanted to get us snack. She truly had a servants heart.
One of the nights my mom slept over she was reading MomMom her Bible. She was reading John 14 to her as she thought it was something she would like to hear. She hadn't made it through too much of "In my father's house are many mansions" John 14: 2a before MomMom stopped her and asked her to read Psalm 23. As mom started reading The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. Psalms 23:1, it was like MomMom couldn't wait for her to get to the end. Mom was a little surprised until she realized what she was waiting for. MomMom wanted to hear the last verse. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. Psalms 23:6. Mom said MomMom could barely speak but she kept repeating that line: "and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever". When Uncle Mart and Uncle Wayne came up, she repeated the same thing to them: "and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever". You know why? Because she knew exactly where she was going. To heaven. To see her Saviour.
Her legacy is also a challenge - for those of us who have been loved and touched by her and her kindness in some way, we are left with the task of "taking up the mantle". Of continuing her work and glorifying God in it. MomMom gave us a lot of love and a lot of examples of how to really become a Proverbs 31 woman. She probably never even realized she was one. She just did it. She lived her life loving her God, her husband, her family and her fellow man. So, her daughters, granddaughters, great-granddaughters, and others - let's do this. Let's take her example and attempt to live a life pleasing to God as a Proverbs 31 woman. Not because the church says so. Not to gain a husband (in some of our cases) and not for personal glory. But because it would glorify our father and we can all become virtuous daughters. And in doing so we would not just be honoring God - we would be lengthening her legacy. A Legacy of Grace.
Monday, October 15, 2012
When the going gets tough....
You know those days where you go into work (wherever that may be for you) thinking about your day ahead and knowing there was a certain list of things that needed to be accomplished? And then, 26 minutes later all hell breaks loose and it just goes downhill for the rest of the day. I, unlike most of the world, happen to have pretty good Mondays because my Tuesdays are crazy (that's a whole nother post), but this Monday sure lived up to its world-wide reputation. A multitude of personnel issues, wrong orders picked, trucking fiascoes you name it, it happened today. But, our job is to make the impossible possible so we find a way to get it done. One way or the other. So, today, when a manager and his foreman both show up in my office at 4:04 pm, I just know it. Some emergency is going on and we're gonna have to find a way to fix it. And there was such an emergency. One of our customers had a forklift - with a load on the forks - tilted backwards in an aisle and we had to find a way to get it back up. So a mad scramble for personnel, trucking, and coordination ensued. There were logistics discussions, engineering conversations, and a slew of getting to people's voicemail before getting some actual answers.
But, guess what happened? My truck driver came back in, the assembled crew made their way out to the customer and we righted their truck back up for them. We found a way. About seven people worked together to find a way to make it happen. One of Raymond's motto's is "Above and Beyond" and call me cheesy but I really believe in that. We do. We strive to go above and beyond for our customers. Now, does it happen every time? Nope. But we sure try our darnedest to find a way around that and get it done. There have been many times where I was at a total loss of how to even approach a situation, let alone find a solution. But thank Jesus - He always helps me do what I need to do. Don't get me wrong - I don't always handle everything with extreme calm and clarity but I do what I can to get it done. I've learned a lot of lessons over the past few years and am trying to apply them in my current situations. Life is a journey and it really is what you make it. I'm just happy to be part of a team that doesn't give up the first time. That, to be totally cliche, when the going gets tough, the tough get going. Cheesy, but y'all know that's just a part of me.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
But, guess what happened? My truck driver came back in, the assembled crew made their way out to the customer and we righted their truck back up for them. We found a way. About seven people worked together to find a way to make it happen. One of Raymond's motto's is "Above and Beyond" and call me cheesy but I really believe in that. We do. We strive to go above and beyond for our customers. Now, does it happen every time? Nope. But we sure try our darnedest to find a way around that and get it done. There have been many times where I was at a total loss of how to even approach a situation, let alone find a solution. But thank Jesus - He always helps me do what I need to do. Don't get me wrong - I don't always handle everything with extreme calm and clarity but I do what I can to get it done. I've learned a lot of lessons over the past few years and am trying to apply them in my current situations. Life is a journey and it really is what you make it. I'm just happy to be part of a team that doesn't give up the first time. That, to be totally cliche, when the going gets tough, the tough get going. Cheesy, but y'all know that's just a part of me.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
Saturday, October 13, 2012
The Real Stuff
There are times in my life where I get totally distracted by the things of this world and my focus completely changes. Days (and sometimes weeks) into this, I realize there is something missing in my life. Something big. Something important. What is it? Oh yeah, only the most important thing in my life.....Jesus.
This does not happen on purpose, of course. And it's nothing new. I've done it more times I'd rather admit myself, and people have done it for lifetimes. Work, school, life, friends, selfishiness - there are a myriad of things that command my attention and cause me to distance myself from the only steady thing in my life. The funny thing is - when things start to go wrong, it still takes me a few days to figure out what the heck my problem is.
More often than not, it is failure, defeat or heartache that drives me back to the place where I really belong. But sometimes, it is the glimpse of something good, something pure, that makes everything else seem cheap and tarnished. A real friend, people who care about me - really care - and who love the Lord. When I am in that place, I feel just what it is that I've been missing. It's pure, it's real and it's truth. People talk about fellowship of the saints and how we should surround ourselves with godly people. There is definitely a difference.
I'm not talking about Sister Christian, holy roller, I'm holy and you should be too people - I'm talking about those who are real, who are for real, and who love me for who I am.
Now.....I just have to remember this so I don't screw up as long the next time.
This does not happen on purpose, of course. And it's nothing new. I've done it more times I'd rather admit myself, and people have done it for lifetimes. Work, school, life, friends, selfishiness - there are a myriad of things that command my attention and cause me to distance myself from the only steady thing in my life. The funny thing is - when things start to go wrong, it still takes me a few days to figure out what the heck my problem is.
More often than not, it is failure, defeat or heartache that drives me back to the place where I really belong. But sometimes, it is the glimpse of something good, something pure, that makes everything else seem cheap and tarnished. A real friend, people who care about me - really care - and who love the Lord. When I am in that place, I feel just what it is that I've been missing. It's pure, it's real and it's truth. People talk about fellowship of the saints and how we should surround ourselves with godly people. There is definitely a difference.
I'm not talking about Sister Christian, holy roller, I'm holy and you should be too people - I'm talking about those who are real, who are for real, and who love me for who I am.
Now.....I just have to remember this so I don't screw up as long the next time.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Moments That Matter
Do you ever find yourself caught up in a pattern of pettiness or just plain meaningless conversations with people? It doesn't matter if it's friends, family, classmates, coworkers, etc....you have good conversations - but they just don't mean anything. I seem to be caught in such a rut. There are many people I speak with (especially during the work week) about a great many things. And that's all well and good, really. We need to create and maintain relationships and to do so means communicating with them. My problem is I get so caught up in the things of this world: sports, movies, life, family, work, etc, etc, etc. Again, all well and good. But when this is all I dwell on, well then there's a problem. Because then, I am wasting opportunities.
When we were in Ireland this summer, we had a few very meaningful conversations and some of the team were saying about how good it was to be around like-minded people and have good "meaty" (as in substantial) talks. I remember being a bit convicted about my lack of them back home, and then quickly dismissed it thinking that I would be bored after awhile if that's all we talked about. This is a perfect example of how my flesh takes over and throws out anything good. Bored, Kim? Really?? In having conversations about God and the kingdom and learning how to survive this world? Lord knows I need all the help I can get in that area (I'm not being disrespectful here - He does know!)
Last night we had a family dinner at my sister's house celebrating my brother as he is moving away in a few weeks. My siblings and I (and extended sibling haha) sat around a campfire and had a really meaningful conversation about ourselves, our experiences, what God is doing in our lives, and what we feel He is leading us to do. It was one of those moments seemingly frozen in time...where, for a few hours, we were edifying and being edified. It was sanctioned and beautiful. Corny as it may sound, that's how I felt about it.
So, as these things often do, it lead me to think about me and my life and my lack of "real" conversations and what I should do to change that. Don't get me wrong, the NFL is starting this week, the NHL is in threat of a lockout, I have to make my pool picks, and I still want to see the Dark Knight Rises. There are still awesome conversations to be had and they will happen. Just watch out, we will be praying for opportunities to share and glorify Jesus.
Try it out sometime...it may sound boring, but I can promise such conversations have the potential to change your life. Think about it.
When we were in Ireland this summer, we had a few very meaningful conversations and some of the team were saying about how good it was to be around like-minded people and have good "meaty" (as in substantial) talks. I remember being a bit convicted about my lack of them back home, and then quickly dismissed it thinking that I would be bored after awhile if that's all we talked about. This is a perfect example of how my flesh takes over and throws out anything good. Bored, Kim? Really?? In having conversations about God and the kingdom and learning how to survive this world? Lord knows I need all the help I can get in that area (I'm not being disrespectful here - He does know!)
Last night we had a family dinner at my sister's house celebrating my brother as he is moving away in a few weeks. My siblings and I (and extended sibling haha) sat around a campfire and had a really meaningful conversation about ourselves, our experiences, what God is doing in our lives, and what we feel He is leading us to do. It was one of those moments seemingly frozen in time...where, for a few hours, we were edifying and being edified. It was sanctioned and beautiful. Corny as it may sound, that's how I felt about it.
So, as these things often do, it lead me to think about me and my life and my lack of "real" conversations and what I should do to change that. Don't get me wrong, the NFL is starting this week, the NHL is in threat of a lockout, I have to make my pool picks, and I still want to see the Dark Knight Rises. There are still awesome conversations to be had and they will happen. Just watch out, we will be praying for opportunities to share and glorify Jesus.
Try it out sometime...it may sound boring, but I can promise such conversations have the potential to change your life. Think about it.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Wisdom and Learning
I have a billion books laying around that I have either read, re-read, or am "going to get to that one" for my reading pleasure. Every once in awhile, one seems to just "show up" just when I need it. Such an event just happened to me the other day.
Michael Warden is one of my favorite authors. He is a life coach and a mentor and one fine day I just may do one of his programs. I have one of his devotional books and it is one that I really enjoy - he is more so on the point for real-life events than many. Here is an excerpt from the book that shook my world the other day. And just because it was applicable and right on time. Coincidence? I think not.
Jesus replied, " You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand".
John 13:7
Wisdom and learning come not from experience, but from our reactions to it. Learning from experience is a matter of choice. The nature of the experience is irrelevant; it is the attitude of the heard that determines what we get out of it. The lessons from experience are learned slowly, over time, like a seed planted in the ground but when the plant finally bears fruit - when we finally understand - we are permanently changed.
Not everyone who goes through an experience will respond well, however. Some will simply forget about it - their seed is stolen away. Some will interpret the experience wrongly, or fail to apply the lesson to their lives - their seed is choked out by other concerns. But some will receive the lesson implanted, and they will be changed. Learning to be teachable in the midst of any experience - whether pleasant or painful - is the heart of wisdom.
Jesus uses experience to sift our hearts and separate out for Himself those whose hearts are teachable and wiling. Experience beautifies the hearts of those who are humble and hardens the hearts of those who demand their own way. It's a decision of the heart. Do not resist Him, but commit yourself to remain moldable in His hand. ~Michael Warden
Makes you think a bit about what to do in the midst of your experiences, doesn't it? It's very humbling to think that He gives us this choice - and waits with open arms for us to bring them to Him. Simply amazing.
Michael Warden is one of my favorite authors. He is a life coach and a mentor and one fine day I just may do one of his programs. I have one of his devotional books and it is one that I really enjoy - he is more so on the point for real-life events than many. Here is an excerpt from the book that shook my world the other day. And just because it was applicable and right on time. Coincidence? I think not.
Jesus replied, " You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand".
John 13:7
Wisdom and learning come not from experience, but from our reactions to it. Learning from experience is a matter of choice. The nature of the experience is irrelevant; it is the attitude of the heard that determines what we get out of it. The lessons from experience are learned slowly, over time, like a seed planted in the ground but when the plant finally bears fruit - when we finally understand - we are permanently changed.
Not everyone who goes through an experience will respond well, however. Some will simply forget about it - their seed is stolen away. Some will interpret the experience wrongly, or fail to apply the lesson to their lives - their seed is choked out by other concerns. But some will receive the lesson implanted, and they will be changed. Learning to be teachable in the midst of any experience - whether pleasant or painful - is the heart of wisdom.
Jesus uses experience to sift our hearts and separate out for Himself those whose hearts are teachable and wiling. Experience beautifies the hearts of those who are humble and hardens the hearts of those who demand their own way. It's a decision of the heart. Do not resist Him, but commit yourself to remain moldable in His hand. ~Michael Warden
Makes you think a bit about what to do in the midst of your experiences, doesn't it? It's very humbling to think that He gives us this choice - and waits with open arms for us to bring them to Him. Simply amazing.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
A different kind of doubt? or faith?
I have often said that I'm ashamed of the amount of times I do not trust God. When, in essence, I really do. When asked about particular situations, wants, or desires, I do not feel that I am trusting God to follow through or work them out for me. I've recently come to realize that it's not me not trusting, because I sincerely believe that God can and will do all of those things. For lots of people. What I do not believe a lot of the times, is that He would do so for me. I just don't see Him doing certain things...for one reason or another. I think I finally came to the conclusion that it's not about God and this person or that person, and what He has shown or done for them, it's about God and Kim - and what He has to show her. For the right here, for the right now. Now, if I could just figure out how.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Reset Button?
There seems to be a lot of people lately who would like to simply start over. Hit the 'reset' button like we used to on our original Nintendo systems. Just a simple push of a button spoiled us into thinking we could do that with lots of things. Not so. You cannot just start over in school, end a marriage, or change a career without there being some complications or consequences of some sort.
I'm not gonna lie - I've often wondered how different my life would be if I had made other decisions, worked somewhere else, or even if I had different friends and relationships. Where would I be? How would my experiences change? Would I like it better or worse?
But everything comes down to one simple fact: I'm here. Now. For whatever reason or reasons. I can only change the here and now and move on towards the future. And you know what the overwhelming thought is? That I am here - in this place - for a reason. For a time. And that God knows exactly what He is doing, no matter how many times I try to tell Him otherwise. I can't help but be OK with that. I don't like it at times, but I'm OK with it. I've had the opportunity to do so many things above and beyond expectation, that I can only wait in anticipation of what's next. And I am going to leave that to the One who has consistently taken care of me and who is able to bless exceedingly abundantly above.
I'm not gonna lie - I've often wondered how different my life would be if I had made other decisions, worked somewhere else, or even if I had different friends and relationships. Where would I be? How would my experiences change? Would I like it better or worse?
But everything comes down to one simple fact: I'm here. Now. For whatever reason or reasons. I can only change the here and now and move on towards the future. And you know what the overwhelming thought is? That I am here - in this place - for a reason. For a time. And that God knows exactly what He is doing, no matter how many times I try to tell Him otherwise. I can't help but be OK with that. I don't like it at times, but I'm OK with it. I've had the opportunity to do so many things above and beyond expectation, that I can only wait in anticipation of what's next. And I am going to leave that to the One who has consistently taken care of me and who is able to bless exceedingly abundantly above.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
For the Love of the Game
A common cliche of sports fan everywhere, we've all heard the phrase "For the Love of the Game" at some point of time or another. Usually describing an athlete playing on through injury, age, paycuts (though not so much anymore!) and his or her playing simply because they want to.
I was struck by that phrase tonight as I took in a local softball game...that players of any game, in any spectrum, at any pay level, play simply because they love to. Some come out with something to prove, some for the competition and some just to show up and be involved.
If you're going to play, play for a reason. Play for the love of the game.
I was struck by that phrase tonight as I took in a local softball game...that players of any game, in any spectrum, at any pay level, play simply because they love to. Some come out with something to prove, some for the competition and some just to show up and be involved.
If you're going to play, play for a reason. Play for the love of the game.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Where is the integrity?
High-level athletes used to come with some sort of integrity. They are well-known, well-paid, and should be well aware of the place they hold in society. Sports fans young and old become fans of their favorite players: some because they play for their favorite team, some because they believe the athlete is one of the best in their chosen field, and some simply because the icon is popular. Whatever the reason, we become fans of these players and hold them up as role models and people we look up to. In recent years, these players have fallen short of glory - in the arena of integrity. From Plexico, to Pacman, to Tiger, and now Big Ben (AGAIN) - these men are not only embarrassing themselves, they are letting down untold numbers of fans. Most of them being the impressionable youth of America.
Winston Churchill said "With great privilege comes great responsibility." Would that he come back from the grave and beat that concept into the heads of the 'upstart Colonials'. What Ben Roethlisberger needs to realize is that he is making extremely bad judgment calls for a face-of-a-franchise quarterback worth $102 million. He is making bad judgment calls for a 28 year old man - quarterback or no quarterback.
The pure fact he just hired one of the top 5 defense attorneys suggests one of two things: a) he is guilty of these recent charges or b) he is once again being falsely accused and wants to nip his problem in the bud. Either way, he definitely has a big problem on his hands.
Jesus says in Luke 12:48 "...For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more." Ben has been made starting quarterback of one of the most respected, hard-working teams in the National Football League. He has been paid a lot of money to win championships. He has won two and still has a long promising career ahead of him. If he stops acting stupid and mans up. The Steelers organization has invested a lot of money, marketing and time into making him the face of their franchise. Hence, they ask a lot of him. Recently, he has been falling short of their requirements.
Whether he is guilty or innocent of the accusations, i hope he learns a very important lesson from this (he could learn it from Tiger's mistakes as well) - he is not above the law. Making the choice to leave a questionable situation is a good one. One he is going to have to learn sooner or later. For his sake - and for the sake of the millions of kids who look up to him - I hope it is sooner.
Winston Churchill said "With great privilege comes great responsibility." Would that he come back from the grave and beat that concept into the heads of the 'upstart Colonials'. What Ben Roethlisberger needs to realize is that he is making extremely bad judgment calls for a face-of-a-franchise quarterback worth $102 million. He is making bad judgment calls for a 28 year old man - quarterback or no quarterback.
The pure fact he just hired one of the top 5 defense attorneys suggests one of two things: a) he is guilty of these recent charges or b) he is once again being falsely accused and wants to nip his problem in the bud. Either way, he definitely has a big problem on his hands.
Jesus says in Luke 12:48 "...For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more." Ben has been made starting quarterback of one of the most respected, hard-working teams in the National Football League. He has been paid a lot of money to win championships. He has won two and still has a long promising career ahead of him. If he stops acting stupid and mans up. The Steelers organization has invested a lot of money, marketing and time into making him the face of their franchise. Hence, they ask a lot of him. Recently, he has been falling short of their requirements.
Whether he is guilty or innocent of the accusations, i hope he learns a very important lesson from this (he could learn it from Tiger's mistakes as well) - he is not above the law. Making the choice to leave a questionable situation is a good one. One he is going to have to learn sooner or later. For his sake - and for the sake of the millions of kids who look up to him - I hope it is sooner.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Spiritual Warfare
Did you ever have something you wanted to do? Not really that important, but something you wanted to look up or a book you wanted to read? I for one, have multiple wish lists on multiple websites, of multiple books I would like to read at some point in my life. I go through these lists about once a month, updating new ones and deleting ones I've actually read. There is this one book in particular that has been hanging around on one of my wish lists for about five years. I never bought it, because I wasn't sure of the author and I wanted to try and find it at the library. I've searched here and there and it was never on the search list - let alone available. Anyway, about a month ago, out of the blue, I searched for it on my library account and found it. So, I requested it in and went and picked it up (with many others) and brought it home. It sat on my table for three weeks. I renewed online. It sat for another 2 1/2 weeks. I got a notice it was due. So I decided I had better put down the other books I'm reading and get to it. It was due on Saturday. I finished it today.
It changed my world.
It's called The Veritas Conflict by Shaunti Feldmann. It happens to be a novel about spiritual warfare and it's about a girl who goes to Harvard University and the many things that happen at college that can shake your belief system. The story is a riveting ride through the history of Harvard and the spiritual battle going on behind the scenes there. A great read - I highly recommend it. There are also a lot of great conversations that often come up for Christians going to a secular university. She brings out some really great points that I've never even thought of before. Those parts of the book were a bonus.
I've read a few novels that dealt with spiritual warfare before (and yes, they are novels but they have some great research behind them - not to mention divine inspiration) and they always get me thinking. We as Christians often take for granted that there is a battle being fought -for us. All around us. This book in particular showed how beings - be they angels or demons - actually influence our every thought. I knew feelings of doubt, discouragement and inadequecy were of the devil, but I never really thought about how they were put into our mind. The idea that we are in a constant battle is a bit overwhelming - and yes, a bit scary.
I was brought up in a legalistic church environment where our parents and church leaders refused to talk about demons. "They are of the devil. We don't speak of them. Doing so may let them into our homes" were some of the reasons we were given. So, I never really thought about them. We just basically believed they only existed in biblical times. Boy, were we wrong.
The veritas (truth) is - there is a battle going on all around us. Paul tells us in Ephesians 6 to
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Satan and his minons are trying to twart the plans of God and the lives of those carrying out those plans. Do you realize that trying to do something of your own strength gives evil control? Any time we think we don't need God that day, or that we "got this all under control", we are pushing God and those beings fighting for us to the back of the fight. I never really thought about it that way before. Makes you wonder what God can accomplish in your life if you just give him the controller daily, doesn't it?
So, be aware of when your day isn't going right, or something seems off. Pray up before you make any decision - important or petty - and listen for the leading of the Spirit.
Maybe, just maybe, you'll give your angels a slight break that way.
And to think, that book sat on my table for six weeks before I read it.
It changed my world.
It's called The Veritas Conflict by Shaunti Feldmann. It happens to be a novel about spiritual warfare and it's about a girl who goes to Harvard University and the many things that happen at college that can shake your belief system. The story is a riveting ride through the history of Harvard and the spiritual battle going on behind the scenes there. A great read - I highly recommend it. There are also a lot of great conversations that often come up for Christians going to a secular university. She brings out some really great points that I've never even thought of before. Those parts of the book were a bonus.
I've read a few novels that dealt with spiritual warfare before (and yes, they are novels but they have some great research behind them - not to mention divine inspiration) and they always get me thinking. We as Christians often take for granted that there is a battle being fought -for us. All around us. This book in particular showed how beings - be they angels or demons - actually influence our every thought. I knew feelings of doubt, discouragement and inadequecy were of the devil, but I never really thought about how they were put into our mind. The idea that we are in a constant battle is a bit overwhelming - and yes, a bit scary.
I was brought up in a legalistic church environment where our parents and church leaders refused to talk about demons. "They are of the devil. We don't speak of them. Doing so may let them into our homes" were some of the reasons we were given. So, I never really thought about them. We just basically believed they only existed in biblical times. Boy, were we wrong.
The veritas (truth) is - there is a battle going on all around us. Paul tells us in Ephesians 6 to
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Satan and his minons are trying to twart the plans of God and the lives of those carrying out those plans. Do you realize that trying to do something of your own strength gives evil control? Any time we think we don't need God that day, or that we "got this all under control", we are pushing God and those beings fighting for us to the back of the fight. I never really thought about it that way before. Makes you wonder what God can accomplish in your life if you just give him the controller daily, doesn't it?
So, be aware of when your day isn't going right, or something seems off. Pray up before you make any decision - important or petty - and listen for the leading of the Spirit.
Maybe, just maybe, you'll give your angels a slight break that way.
And to think, that book sat on my table for six weeks before I read it.
Monday, January 21, 2008
somebody get a manual please???
ok, so can i vent a little? singleness should come with its own manual. or rather, there should be a manual for unsingle people - to learn how to be around single people.
no, this is not the usual singleness stinks, i wanna be in a relationship issue, this is for real. seriously, i think unsingle people either block out or willingly forget what its like to be single. it's not that they really do it on purpose, but they kinda don't know what to do with you. after the hey-how-are-yas, what do we have to relate to one another? while the married/parent crowd talks about their homes, significant others, kids, etc...and they don't know what to even ask single people about. their lives are so past they can't even recall what it was like. no wonder single people go on about clubs, drinking games, new crush, etc, etc. they're just trying to fit in and relate.
for now, i'm going to forget about the fact that i haven't been with so-and-so for the last 10 years of my life and am living the dream, i'm gonna buy a new cell phone and plan a vacation.
then write a manual.
no, this is not the usual singleness stinks, i wanna be in a relationship issue, this is for real. seriously, i think unsingle people either block out or willingly forget what its like to be single. it's not that they really do it on purpose, but they kinda don't know what to do with you. after the hey-how-are-yas, what do we have to relate to one another? while the married/parent crowd talks about their homes, significant others, kids, etc...and they don't know what to even ask single people about. their lives are so past they can't even recall what it was like. no wonder single people go on about clubs, drinking games, new crush, etc, etc. they're just trying to fit in and relate.
for now, i'm going to forget about the fact that i haven't been with so-and-so for the last 10 years of my life and am living the dream, i'm gonna buy a new cell phone and plan a vacation.
then write a manual.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Provision
I have this really bad habit of getting myself in really impossible situations. Some things are more dire than others and I had a doozy the other day. I made an error in my personal accounting (i have never been good at math) and was about to have a major problem on my hands. I tried to fix it with two different establishments, but to no avail. I yet again went running to God with my issues, and He provided a way out in a manner that I didn't see coming. Sometimes I feel like I treat Him as an almight band-aid, but yet He knows me. And He still loves me. And provided a way out yet again. For that, I am truely thankful.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
a mouse of a night
so my roommates and i thought we had a mouse last week. apparently they had seen evidence - chewed food left out and one of their friends had actually seen one near our stove from her chair in the living room. so, we decided to set a trap. one of us can set traps ( i have a few very sore fingers to attest to the fact that i cannot ) and one of us cannot stand the sight or sound or barely the thought of mice in the apartment. so, me being the wonderful person that i am (and the new roomie on the block) is now in charge of mouse disposal.
we caught our first one last week. i had to get up at 9am on a Saturday so the one roomie wouldn't freak if we had a dead mouse in our kitchen. so i woke to my cell phone alarm, felt for my glasses and padded out the the kitchen to assess the damage through the slits of my eyes that actually open at that time on a Saturday.
lo, and behold, there was a mouse in the trap. so what the heck was i gonna do with it? it had to be out of the house before my roommate saw it. so, i winged it off our balcony into a very thankful bed of weeds and brambles. our mouse was never heard from again.
but the last few nights, we thought we heard something again. i definetely was rudely awakened on Sunday morning by something scratching in my wall. i was not very happy. especially when it woke me up again at 9.
so tonight, after dinner, we set another trap. i kinda forgot about it until i heard the trap go off. i was on the couch making fun of american idol contestants with my roommate. she looked at me and i set off to do my duty of disposing of the mouse. as i turned on the kitchen light, i realized that the thing was still moving! Gross - even for me. after a lot of hysterics from the other two, i waited awhile and then sent the second mouse to its weedy burial grounds.
the saga continues.
we caught our first one last week. i had to get up at 9am on a Saturday so the one roomie wouldn't freak if we had a dead mouse in our kitchen. so i woke to my cell phone alarm, felt for my glasses and padded out the the kitchen to assess the damage through the slits of my eyes that actually open at that time on a Saturday.
lo, and behold, there was a mouse in the trap. so what the heck was i gonna do with it? it had to be out of the house before my roommate saw it. so, i winged it off our balcony into a very thankful bed of weeds and brambles. our mouse was never heard from again.
but the last few nights, we thought we heard something again. i definetely was rudely awakened on Sunday morning by something scratching in my wall. i was not very happy. especially when it woke me up again at 9.
so tonight, after dinner, we set another trap. i kinda forgot about it until i heard the trap go off. i was on the couch making fun of american idol contestants with my roommate. she looked at me and i set off to do my duty of disposing of the mouse. as i turned on the kitchen light, i realized that the thing was still moving! Gross - even for me. after a lot of hysterics from the other two, i waited awhile and then sent the second mouse to its weedy burial grounds.
the saga continues.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)