Life Unraveling Is Not Enjoyable

Life Unraveling Is Not Enjoyable

         Our challenges in life present immense predicaments for us to face, and many issues to overcome.  Relying on a Support Group has incredible benefits, and builds community strength.

        I saw recently, “Wherever you stand, be a blessing.”, and that offers much encouragement that we can lift others up by doing something small or just being there to comfort them.  When I had my strokes, the family and friends as well as therapies were amazing in my unraveling times.

        Over the years I’ve seen many who thought nobody understood what they were going through, until they heard the stories of others.  Then they realized connections and had hope that their vision could be better.

        There was a time I felt pressured, and the message I received was “You are not far from hope.”   Today there’s a renewed beginning, with a fresh start toward a progressive future.

        The life ahead can be uplifting for us and all we encounter, that we bring brightness unto and inspire as well as energize in ways they may not have envisioned.  Giving another an enjoyable perspective can appeal to much more than them, maybe all that cross their path.  Do amazing things!

Thanksgiving In The Midst of Thanks-living

Thanksgiving In The Midst of Thanks-living

 

This month is when we commemorate an occasion from American history that we call Thanksgiving.  We certainly have many blessings for which we should be and are thankful. Should we limit our thanksgiving to a particular time of year or should it be a part of our lifestyle?

              That's what thanks-living is all about.  We should recognize that we have reason to be thankful everyday of our life and our actions should show our appreciation to those people who are there for us and help us out.

              Each day I have a chance to see some of God's creation, is a day to be joy-filled and a time when I should say, "Thank You, God."  I look at all things whether simple or complex and I appreciate the presence of God in everything around me.

              What about the people?  Are they reasons to be thankful?  Sure, they are!!!  Those family members, friends and even the yet-to-be friends are gifts from God, and I am thankful to go out and meet so many of them.

              I will be celebrating Thanksgiving this month just like you, but I will also put it into a proper perspective.  When I realize my daily deeds have a degree of thankfulness it will become part of my lifestyle.

              I say, "Thank You Lord," for every person, everything and every chance with which I am blessed because in each of them I can meet God.  There is an awesome fulfilling presence that gives me life and leads me to a richer, more positive, and hopeful mind-set.

              When I can look beyond the present struggles and pain of life to see a vision of what can be, I will pursue that goal.  This is what our faith is all about.  We learn about what is beyond our earthly life from stories in the Bible.

              Jesus came that we may have life, eternal life.  For this very reason I am thankful, but also for the love God shows me each day in every way.

Originally published for St. Michael Church's Youth Voice, November 1994.

What If vs. Even If

What If vs. Even If

         I’ve heard “Fear is ‘What if’ and Faith is ‘Even if’ “  So the first shows questioning and the second is reasoning through.  Fear creates separation between us and others, but the other builds community.

        Strengthening the bonds of our togetherness reveals there is much more than the limitations that are apparent.  When we can get beyond the queries into points of stability, we’re assured of confidence to be able to accomplish great deeds.

        Putting ourselves in good environments achieves positive results, and makes confident strides forward.  Ideas sparked through others inspire and energize us to do amazing things.

        We cannot do all the good the world needs, but the world needs all the good we can do.  The things we make happen may improve the zones we touch and cause enhanced creativity.

        To edify others lifts them up to levels beyond any they have expected, yet the gift is cherished.  Being builders takes effort and dedication to that craft and fulfilling the plan.  Take the “Even If” step ahead; Just Do It.

 

Also -- Courage doesn’t mean you aren’t afraid.  Courage means you don’t let fear control you.

I’m Not In Her Shadow; I’m Her Light

I’m Not In Her Shadow; I’m Her Light

        A reporter asked Maya Angelou’s son “What is it like growing up in Maya Angelou’s shadow?”  He said “I’m not in her shadow.  I’m her light.”  She raised him well, into a man with the right perspective.

        We can all rise to be the best version of ourselves, taking out of the things we learn and experience inspiration and energy that benefits us to become amazing people.  When phenomenal items are presented to us, then if we receive it well, so much more brightens our lives.

        Somebody important in our life can be such a tremendous part of our journey, that it leaves a lasting mark.  But we may also have an influence unto another that can be a blessing for both them and us.

        Being available could be the needed light that someone requires to fill their void and help them stabilize the level they’re seeking.  Perspectives to reach our fullness point would enrich us to where we might spill onto others blessings to energize them as well as inspire accomplishments.

        A placement in someone’s shadow might seem like a darkened region though we could also be a bright spot in another’s challenge.  Looking back at experiences reveals insights allowing us to see some incredible aspects that maybe we missed while living through it.  Shine immense light.

Flood of Damage, Flood of Helping

Flood of Damage, Flood of Helping

         Recently we’ve had several disasters that caused so much damage and flooding has impacted many areas.  But also the influx of helping has been significant, both near and distant.

The massive community support has inspired contributions of the vitally needed resources to aid communities in recovery efforts.  The flood of help is immense on a grand scale, with tremendous outreach.

         Levels of assistance have phenomenal impact and draw people in to be available, sometimes on short notice, but with impeccable timing.  We’re supportive in amazing methods to stand by others as they need so much.

         When we see someone struggling, and lending a hand is something doable, being a helper can lift that person toward a stable point.  The Mom of Mr. Rogers used to comfort his anxiety by saying, “Look for the helpers.” and that was the encouragement he needed.

         If we can be in the Support Group for another, then building up those people or communities would be the fixers in our reach.  A flood can be so hurtful, but in ways could be helpful too.  Assist where/when/how.