Driven With Purpose

2009-11-18T22:24:00.000-08:00

I needed this reminder from my old post....so I thought I would share it again until I have a minute to write

Relinquish Control and Act by Faith

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see"

There are many times in which God chooses to remove something or someone from our lives that we have become so fond and accustomed to, for a reason we do not understand. Our comprehension is not God's primary concern, rather that His will be fulfilled, and the bigger picture be made complete.

Though we may be left feeling blind sighted and alone, confused and trying to sort out a reason, He sees far beyond our attempts at comprehension. He promises, "I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future". By faith we must trust the Lord.

Sometimes it is because of our own self indulgence that God must remove things from our life.

Where our heart is, there our treasure also lies; and the same is true of the reverse. Our faith in God should be the only place we store our treasures, our heart, because all else is futile and temporary.

Recently this scenario has played out in my own life. A person is missing that contributed a considerable amount to my happiness and pleasure.

It seemed so untimely, but I am choosing to have faith in the God that has always seen me through. While I only see brush strokes on a canvas, the Lord sees a framed masterpiece mounted on the wall in His kingdom. This person is a streak of color in my life, a vital part of the entire portrait, but that is all I can see; the individual stripes of color. The remaining progress needed to complete the painting will be left entirely up to God. He may or may not choose to use this color again in His final touches, and for one of the first times, by faith, I am okay with that. My heart is at peace.

Numerous times I have not done this and rather been like a toddler, inquisitive and meddlesome, wanting to grow up and paint my own picture. While, God, my loving father, had already made quite an outline for His developing masterpiece I decided to open a few paints and see to it that I added my finger and hand prints.

Rather then seeing a mess and dealing with me in anger, He washed my hands clean with His love and mercy, and transformed my mayhem in to a masterpiece.

We sometimes believe we are taking the design of our life in to our own hands, yet God in His gracious nature will only let us make it so far along before we realize we are unable to do it independently. Even if the choices that were made have caused a wreck in life, God sees to it that it is transposed in to something great. It is not always plain to see what good can come of a disaster or a loss, but by faith we can trust that God always has view of the finished portrait of our life.

It is only when we give up our stubborn three letter word 'W-H-Y' that we can be assured we are living fully by faith. This is the greatest act of submission; it allows God to teach and transform us in to the most captivating and magnificent artwork we could never have imagined.

By faith, Noah built a ship in the middle of a desert because he was warned by God about something he couldn't see. His act of obedience, by faith, saved his family when it rained for 40 days and nights in a land that had not seen rain for many years.

By faith, Abraham was fully ready to return his promised son, his only son, to God not knowing God was going to spare Isaac's life.

By an act of faith, Moses' parents hid him for three months to rescue him from the decree of the king. Later, by faith, they delivered him down the Nile with no assurance of his fate.

By faith, Moses when he grew up refused the privileges of his royal household and rather suffered the strenuous life with God's people. By faith, he obeyed God and miraculously led the people of Israel out of Egypt through the Red Sea on dry ground!

These are just a few glances at the miraculous and adventurous lives that developed mainly because 'W-H-Y' was not their concern, rather complete trust and surrender to God's greater plan.

If you struggle today with the removal of something dear to you, I
plead with you to trust God that He has plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a better future then the one you have perceived for yourself.

Some people and possessions may re-enter, some shades of color may be used again, but allow the Lord to gift you with that, do not make it your focus. Press forward and live abundantly! Our days are not guaranteed.

Are We Working Our Heads Off For Nothing?

2009-09-29T21:56:00.000-07:00

Life can be lived one of two ways.

It is a daily struggle not live life for myself, pursuing only what is in my best interest and what will boost my rapport among those I admire. I have been influenced from a tender age that I am to put myself first and do whatever is necessary to establish wealth, position and power; essentially who we are, what we do, and how much we make, will establish our social status, credibility and worth.

Though I tried to follow these guidelines to success, I realized that no satisfaction is attained through this way of living. Getting my own way makes me happy for a moment but leaves me only desiring more. This reading below summed it up really well for me:

It is obvious what kind of life develops out of trying to get your own way all the time: repetitive, loveless, cheap sex; a stinking accumulation of mental and emotional garbage; frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness; trinket gods; magic show religion; paranoid loneliness; cut throat competition; all-consuming-yet-never-satisfied wants; a brutal temper; an impotence to love or be loved; divided homes and divided lives; small minded and lopsided pursuits; the vicious habit of depersonalizing everyone into a rival; uncontrolled and uncontrollable addictions; ugly parodies of community. I could go on.

But what happens when we live God's way?

He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard----things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.

(The Message)

Backbone Vs. Wishbone

2009-09-09T08:30:00.000-07:00

"I wish I was thin"
"I wish I had a better job"
"I wish my relationships were better"
"I wish I was out of debt"

I wish, I wish, I wish....

How often do we hear these types of statements? And how often do we find ourselves muttering these very same ideas? Wishing only creates delusions in our reality. It's time to press through the pain of discipline and direct our ambitions in to action.

"At the time-being no discipline brings joy, it seems grievous and painful, but afterward it yields a peaceable fruit of righteousness to those that have been trained by it"

As Joyce Meyer put it, "You pay now, or you pay later, but sooner or later everybody's going to pay".

We must begin to make right choices even while we don't feel like it. The majority of our battle is pressing through the pain of feelings, so that we might move forward in success. Though in the present no discipline seems joyous, nevertheless later on...
Let us get motivated by the "later on"! The price we pay now is small in comparison to the rewards we will reap later! Discipline will provide for us a sturdy backbone so that we might function properly and with efficiency enabling us to live with vitality.

Imagine the limitations placed on an individual who is De-conditioned or has developed a spinal injury. As a result of their immobility, inflammation and degeneration occur unless disciplined action is taken. Though the beginning training phases will likely cause discomfort and soreness, it is essential if the individual desires to retain strength and functionability in the long term. The pain will only increase if the individual takes no action. Who, with the knowledge of the alternate outcome, would decline a rehabilitation training? We all want the freedom to move about independently and live life to the fullest, so why is it that we slack when it comes to our mental and emotional state?

Let us implement a focused discipline toward our wishful wants, and let us not settle for less then the best God has for us! We die where we settle. We might not die physically, but our dreams die, our visions die, our zeal dies, our passion dies, our enthusiasm for life dies...

Why? Because we aren't pressing in to the best God has for us; we simply didn't want the pain.
Unfortunately, we end up with the pain anyway. We are going to hurt one way or the other, it's just the type of pain we choose. There is no worse pain then an unfulfilled, dissatisfied life because we know in our heart we didn't have the courage to press in.

Pay now, or pay later...but sooner or later we're all going to pay.

Positive Reinforcement

2009-08-26T22:55:00.000-07:00

When was the last time you dined out and purposefully pulled the Manager aside to compliment the service provided to you?

When was the last time you were in a retail/dining establishment and called on a manager to complain about your service?

It's quite common for us to react when we feel we are being treated less then we expect. As individuals we form an expectation of how we should be regarded and responded to. When life obeys these expectations we move along in our day with no sense of gratitude or joy in the fact that our desires are met.

However, as soon as that person driving on the freeway cuts us off, or the waitress at the restaurant cannot seem to instantaneously produce food, or someone with 32 items is in the "10 items or less" checkout line in front of us we are quickly agitated!

The ratio of positive events in relation to the moments of madness that we seem to marinate in is alarming! Rather then allowing some menial moments of dissatisfaction rule our attitude and response lets start reinforcing the positive elements that we encounter. (Caption on the photo above reads:"How to motivate people? a little push in the right direction can make a big difference".)

Purposefully :
Thank someone for their assistance, even if it is something required of them by their employer.

Acknowledge the checkout service person and grocery bagger at the supermarket. Smile!

Reinforce positive work ethic that you observe in your place of employment.

Encourage those you detect to be diligent and determined in an expertise.

Rather then using colorful language due to a traffic encounter, remember that you, more than likely, have once been that person and extend grace.

The more we focus our attention on the many positive rendezvous' throughout the day, we will have no choice but to be increasingly joyful, have an enhanced emotional/mental state, reduced stress, and we will begin to realize how truly provided for we are.

Not to mention, our "offenders" will receive the fruits of our labor; And all in all it will come full circle!

Lets get intentional about positive reinforcement!!

Worrisome Heart

2009-07-06T21:55:00.000-07:00

Worry:–verb

1.to torment oneself with or suffer from disturbing thoughts; fret.(dictionary.com)

Worry...
+ It adds nothing
- Subtracts everything
x Multiplies fears
/ Divides relationships
------------------------------
= Equals disaster

The question is how to stop?

Like anything worthwhile it requires diligence and steadfastness. Emotions and feelings have to be the most difficult senses to hunker down on and keep in order. They are much like a defiant child, as soon as you turn your back they return to their mischievous stratagem. Fortunately with defiant children we are able to lock ourselves in the restroom for a few minutes to regain our sanity; lamentably emotions are woven throughout us and are not cordial enough to allow us time alone.

The solution that has deemed worthy of success time and time again is the act of taking your thoughts captive and praying.

Imagine our mind displaying all it's thoughts on a monitor on our forehead. Would we not be more concerned with it's content? I know I would! Honesty is the best policy, but geez there is a way of bringing truth with grace....regrettably not always how my thoughts formulate. So in imagining our minds in this way, envision capturing the conniving and crass thoughts, bind up the fear, lies and worry; Arrest these detrimental thoughts that are formulating false beliefs within us and constantly give them to God by praying to Him. Ask Him for help and bring your frustrations to Him. He is eager to talk with us and desiring to show His character which is Faithful and True.

You may be thinking I am far out there, but try it for one day. I guarantee it to be a challenge greater then you anticipate. I figured it sounded easy to "take my thoughts captive" for one day, but truthfully, just in the first hour I don't think I stopped praying to God about my thoughts!

He has never failed me even when I turn my back on Him. He can't, it's against His nature. I don't know about you but that is the kind of God I need and definitely the one I choose.

Happy Capturing!

Learning to Grow

2009-06-17T08:48:00.000-07:00

Never to suffer would never to have been blessed.: --Edgar Allan Poe

Suffering.

Not many would consider it something beneficial, much less something to look forward to.
Suffering may involve physical pain, loss, stress, illness, betrayal, disappointment, injustice, or abuse. How many of us would pay a large sum if it meant your life would be exempt from any agony? Count me in!

Everyone of us, however, is destined to walk through valleys of suffering, hardships, and trials; it is the result of a fallen world. So how do we do it successfully?

The church since it's earliest days has often portrayed the Christian life as one of mountain top highs, without valleys. It sounds ideal, and the ignorant may jump aboard, but how could this be so? A mountain without a valley is no mountain at all.

"A message that ignores the valleys is not big enough for life. It raises false expectations, and it has nothing to say to a suffering world."(Unlocking The Bible in 30 Days--Smith)

Every Christian-- every human rather, to walk the face of this Earth will face trouble, hardships, persecution, betrayal, loss, abandonment etc...The first thing God wants us to know however, is that it is not meaningless. "And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings', Paul writes in Romans, 'because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.'"

The mountain tops revive our spirit as we feel assured we are headed in the right direction. It provides a moment for our packs to be loosened, our bodies to recharge and rest and reflect before repelling down to the valley ahead.

Something comes from our suffering. Character is developed. As we seek God for direction and guidance, His love produces hope. Slowly our idiosyncrasies begin to align with His word and desire for our lives. Ultimately life becomes an impending adventure.

As we mature in character we begin to scale cliffs and crags we never imagined possible. Hence, our character sharpens, and suddenly suffering is not something to fear but rather an entity to embrace. We learn that God is not punishing us through our times of hardship but truthfully He loves us and desires for us to reach full maturity in character and hope.

Naturally, we choose to avoid pain and resistance in our circumstances, yet that leaves us on a plain. An ordinary, unattractive, unostentatious life where living beings do not flourish to the full potential. Sometimes we circle round and round the mountains in life looking for an elevator rather then attempting the steep gradient before us. God so faithfully has placed us in rough terrain to keep us in training; fit in body, mind and soul!

" Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."--2 Cor. 4:16+17

Do not lose heart if you are going through a time of discomfort and disappointment. Maybe you are struggling financially, or in your marriage, maybe you have lost your place of employment, or your family member, maybe you are enduring physical pain, or a spiritual desert. Whatever it might possibly be, please know that God has a purpose, a plan, and a shining outcome for you. Do not blame him or resent him for your hurting, try trusting him that he is faithful to see you through it.

Even Helen Keller, a woman of ultimate trial and tribulation declared,

"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved."

Magnitude of a Moment

2009-05-19T15:15:00.001-07:00

You may have heard it said, "Today is a gift, that is why it's called the present". Each morning that we arise, is a gift, it's not guaranteed and inevitably there will be a day the sun rises yet we stay asleep.

Today I woke before the sun to take on a strenuous exercise class. I didn't necessarily feel thankful as I woke up seeing that it was 4:30 am, but God spoke to me on my drive home as I came up to stop and go traffic. Listening to one of my favorite songs, sun roof open, tapping along with the beat and slowly inching forward I began to see the familiar flashing lights of an ambulance. My heart sunk as it was my turn to pass the wreckage along the center divide of the 680 freeway.

The vehicle was unrecognizable, and surely if someone survived it would have had to be a complete miracle. The entire automobile was crushed flat, lying diagonally on its side, surrounded by medical personnel working vigorously to disengage any potential survivors. As the only logical thing I could think to do, I began to pray for the driver and possible passengers, for their families, and for all who were viewing this tragedy.

For the Passer by-er's would an incident like this reignite their conscience and spirit? Cause them to ponder the magnitude of each moment? Or would they simply be frustrated due to the inconvenience of traffic and step on the accelerator to make up for lost minutes in their commute?

It only takes a moment for something to change the course of our eternity. A moment holds great potential. Each moment has the possibility to be magnificent or mundane. Each day we are given, we have the opportunity to make it magnanimous or monotonous. Living with the courage to be intentional about the use of your time, your life, your actions and responses, gives you an edge, a sharpness that renders respect and dignity. By consciously living out each moment it forces us to be present, and aware, using every opportunity to it's greatest potential. Our most dignified heroines are those who had the courage to give of themselves for the greater good of their surrounding populace; the courage to use their moments to unknowingly pave the path for many future descendants to follow.

It's a mental battle to precisely focus on each moment but it's worth the war. Setting our eyes too far ahead will have us constantly overlooking the gifts that are the present.

"Everything in the world is about to be wrapped up, so take nothing for granted. Stay wide-awake in prayer. Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it. Love makes up for practically anything. Be quick to give a meal to the hungry, a bed to the homeless---cheerfully. Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it: if words, let it be God's words; if help, let it be God's hearty help. That way, God's bright presence will be evident in everything through Jesus, and he'll get all the credit as the One mighty in everything".
1 Peter 4:7-11(The Message----Bible in Contemporary English)

"The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear-minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in it's various forms"
1 Peter 4:7-10(NIV)

Something to Consider

2009-05-16T20:18:00.000-07:00

It's tough to be a woman of character and integrity, one who values themselves and their family, one who nurtures and encourages, one who knows when and how to set boundaries. American culture, specifically in the California bay area, has provided images and interpretations of what a 'woman' should be, but this is not who I desire to be.

This ideal woman has narrow margins. She should be capable of delivering peak performance at all times, including at her high ranking job, with her husband, with her children, the home should be neat and tidy, and most emphasis is placed upon her physique...Of course she should be a size 2 and have a flat stomach and tight buns.

Now there is nothing wrong with taking care of your physique, don't misinterpret me ladies. Health should be number two on your chart just below your spiritual life. Everything else will build upon these two factors. Seeing the rapid degradation of character and value for self, in both men and women, though leads me to believe we need to get back to issues of the soul. When it comes down to the reality of our human frailty and our lack of power to predestine our individual lives, it's time to do some soul searching. There is a fine balance between personal power and development and our spiritual journey--in fact I would argue, you may not successfully have one without the other. Rather then popping Xanax like breath mints, it's time to go to that uncomfortable place and find TRUTH.

We aren't all fashioned to be the next Miss America, or the top CEO of a fortune 500. We aren't all gifted to do Martha Stewart makeovers, or be the next Mrs. Cleaver. Truth tells us, find God, Acknowledge His power over/in/through the life he has given you, Accept it(the most challenging part), and He will reveal who He has designed you to be.

This is the type of woman I desire to be...my modern version is noted with the ---:)

The Good Wife

A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds.
Her husband trusts her without reserve, and never has reason to regret it.
Never spiteful, she treats him generously all her life long.
She shops around for the best yarns and cottons, and enjoys knitting and sewing
----21st century version--she dresses well;), and can handle sewing on a button---
She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places and brings back exotic surprises
----She is not fearful of new territory and keeps the married life exciting----
She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day.
She looks over a field and buys it, then, with the money she's put aside, plants a garden.
----She wisely invests in areas that will reap reward/return----
First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started.
----She doesn't stay in her PJ's all day and she completes her duties with enthusiasm----
She senses the worth of her work, is in no hurry to call it quits for the day.
----perseverance----
She's skilled in the crafts of home and hearth, diligent in home making.
----She does what it takes to make a house a home...she shops at Target----
She's quick to assist anyone in need , reaches out to help the poor.
She doesn't worry about her family when it snows; their winter clothes are mended&ready to wear.
----She makes sure her family is put together----
She makes her own clothing, and dresses in colorful linens and silks.
----She purchases clothing that accentuates her beauty----
Her husband is greatly respected when he deliberates with the city fathers.
She designs gowns and sells them, brings the sweaters she knit to the dress shops.
----She puts her talent to good use and donates to the less fortunate----
Her clothes are well-made and elegant, and she always faces tomorrow with a smile.
When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and she always says it kindly.
She keeps an eye on everyone in her household, and keeps them all busy and productive.
----She doesn't allow her kids to sleep until 2 and is not a friend of laziness----
Her children respect and bless her; her husband joins in with words of praise:
"Many woman have done wonderful things but you've outclasses them all!"
Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades.
The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God.
Give her everything she deserves!
Adorn her life with praises!

The collective version of Proverbs 31.

Wisdom

2009-04-28T10:21:00.000-07:00

Wisdom is a term we use broadly in conversation but severely lack in life application . It's my desire to pursue life with the motivation of becoming wise and I pray the same for others reading.

America has lost it's affinity for wisdom. We have replaced integrity with compromise, morality with free-will, commitment with instant gratification, relationships with self reliance and values with apathy.

It is unfortunate that when one crosses paths with a genuine person it is alarming. We imagine they must be a foreigner of sorts, not yet plagued by the pandemic which has saturated our society. Narcissism has become the norm. We are so easily fascinated with our achievements, our intelligence, our reflection, our intellect. A soul that cares enough to put themselves aside for a simple act of kindness is a characteristic nearly extinct. Making a sacrifice for another pro bono, no guarantee of return...absurd.

What would life be like if we concerned ourselves more with the well-being of our neighbor before our thoughts became centered upon ourselves?

Most of life is consumed with preparing a future for oneself financially, but where is the balance? What is it that motivates you daily? Why do you work rigorously day in and day out? What is the dream and aspiration you foresee as your recompense for this daily grind?

It is not uncommon to spend time planning what we hope will materialize in our future. Often we refer to daily life as "in the meantime". However nearly 75% of our lives are spent in the "meantime" position. During this time it is crucial that wisdom is intentionally sought after. "Meantime" counts.

Wisdom:(wĭz'dəm)

The ability to discern or judge what is true, right, or lasting; insight.
The power or faculty of forming a sound judgment in any matter.

Wisdom has to do with becoming skillful in honoring our parents and raising our children, handling our finances and conducting our sexual lives, going to work and exercising leadership, using words well and treating friends kindly, eating and drinking healthily, cultivating emotions within ourselves and attitudes toward others that make for peace. Threaded through all these items is the insistence that the way we think of and respond to God is the most practical thing we do. In matters of everyday practicality, nothing, absolutely nothing, takes precedence over God.

This is Our God

2009-03-17T10:13:00.000-07:00

This morning I had the privilege of taking a hike on the hills above my home with a good friend. As we reached the peak we took a seat on a bench that has the most breathtaking 360 degree view of the surrounding cities and Mount Diablo. The sun was gently shining on our faces and the dew from the grass was dampening our tennis shoes. As I sat and looked out upon the vast stretch of land covered with green grass, new flowers and twisted oaks I was reminded of how fortunate I am. I am free, I am saved by grace, and I am loved unconditionally. This particular morning was one of reminiscence. I reflected upon the past year, the relationships that had been built, and those that had been broken; the joys that were shared, and the heart aches that had ensued; my personal growth and changes, and revelations that had become apparent to me; the times of blessing, and the times of challenge...

When I arrived home and began to prepare for the work day, this song began to play and the lyrics are something I wanted to share. If I could have had cake for breakfast this was definitely the icing :)

This is Our God
--Chris Tomlin
A refuge for the poor, a shelter from the storm
This is our God
He will wipe away your tears and return your wasted years
This is our God
Oh... this is our God
A father to the orphan, a healer to the broken
This is our God
And he brings peace to our madness and comfort in our sadness
This is our God
Oh... this is our God
this is the one we have waited for
Oh... this is our God
A fountain for the thirsty, a lover for the lonely
This is our God
He brings glory to the humble and crowns for the faithful
This is our God

Why I Whole-Heartedly Love my Lord

2009-02-22T22:03:00.000-08:00

God can be the hardest idea, being, concept, truth, belief, to grasp. It can seem that He is at such a distance, or at such great heights who could reach to Him? God can be understood as a divinity to be reverent before and to have Holy fear towards. He may be an abstract thought to some of us, or an important component to our lives. Maybe some perceive God as a powerful creator too elusive for one to approach. We might believe He is concerned with events and crisis much larger then us and our individual ailments, tie-ups, disappointments and heartaches.

All of these notions have ran across my mind at one point in time, yet I have come to know God and His abundant love for ME! This truth is by far the most exhilarating sensation of all time, because I know myself and how difficult I am. I am literally a mess and I continually repeat the same mistakes time and time again. I selfishly choose ME first at some point through the day and most days it's my only frame of thought. I have a tendency to critique others, and almost predictably follow through on "open mouth; insert foot" opportunities. Yet somehow, by some miraculous Mercy and Grace, my God who created me absolutely adores me!

God is as close as one believes Him to be. He is an Almighty and Omnipresent God, but so close to those who earnestly seek Him. He promises that He is close to the brokenhearted and He listens and answers their cries. If we only acknowledged that God is walking with us always we might have the correct mindset and courage to walk in faith to where He leads us. Life is an adventure when we allow God to take us by the hand and introduce us to others whom we would otherwise look beyond, or walk us through circumstances that we may have chosen to avoid.

Considering my lack of qualifications to "work" my way to salvation, and judging by the mishaps I have already managed to achieve, it would not be difficult to imagine why I so dearly love My Lord. However, these are sparks to my flame. The kindling, if you will, is the fact that My Lord and Savior knows me without omission, and because of this understanding He knows exactly how to discern my boggled way of thinking.

God uniquely designed only one Regina Marie. Only one You. There has never been one before, and there never will be a replica. Without God, this knowledge can be pridefully empowering but equally mortifying, due to the fact that no one else could honestly comprehend how I reason, relate, or understand life and it's journey.

However, God is able to jive with every thought, emotion, feeling, and figment of my imagination. He is closer then any friend, and more intimate then any person will ever be in my life. He hears me when I am alone, and by His phenomenal nature, will sometimes choose to respond to me by having someone completely unaware of the impact of their words, answer me. He perceives my every doubt and fear, whether spoken or silently stowed in the depths of my heart or back of my mind. At times he has chosen to quiet them with His peace even without my request.

God reveals Himself to me daily in ways He knows only I would identify with. He will show me his tenderness in the embrace of a friend, or His joy in the face of my baby cousin, His Blessings in the beauty of a rolling hillside, His Greatness in the landscape of Yosemite National Park, His Faithfulness in the provisions for my financial needs, His Intricacies in the design he painted on each individual flower even though it will fade with the sun; He does not mind or consider it waste, He is in love with me and He looks for any and every way to show me.

His heart longs for you with the same yearning. He understands your unique language of love, and speaks to it boldly. God is not ashamed to proclaim His complete adoration for you. He shouts it from every piece of His creation, and whispers it in the quietness of your heart.

I cannot help but be consumed with love for My Lord when I remember all that He has done for me, and all that He is doing in me. He has been my sole source for strength and the solid ground when life's trials have left me sinking in a pit of despair. When I reach the end of my rope I have come to realize that this is the healthiest place for me to be; because there I find God. He is a refuge and a re-energizer, a redeemer and my recompense.

Over the years as I worked through the notions I mentioned, I have come to understand that God is never far. Once I humbly acknowledged Him for who He is, Creator God, He promises to never leave me or disown me. It is my own turning that beguiles me. It's difficult to see God when I am faced the opposite way of His direction. Thankfully He is patient, slow to anger and quick to forgive. He understands that I am but a breath, here today and gone tomorrow. While I am here, nonetheless, He has chosen to use me as an instrument for His eternal purposes and to teach me through His actions what infectious true love really is.

The Lord Your God is longing for YOU. If you have felt that He has been distant lately, turn around. Take a moment wherever you are and ask Him to open your eyes and ears to see Him throughout the day, He will be more than willing to reveal Himself. If only we might ask, He would answer, If only we might knock, the door would be opened, If only we might seek, He would be found.

Lord, You have searched me and You know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue You know it completely.

You hem me in---behind and before; You have laid Your hand upon me.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.

Where can I go from Your Spirit?
Where can I flee from Your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, You are there; if I make my bed in the depths, You are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there Your hand will guide me, Your right hand will hold me fast.

If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," even the darkness will not be dark to You; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to You.

For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you when I was in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, Your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be.

How precious to me are Your thoughts.
How vast the sum of them!
Were I to count them, They would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake I am still with you.

. . . . . .Psalm 139:1-18

Transition

2009-02-15T20:37:00.000-08:00

A note from God:

Dear Child, I have brought you through many places of transition in your past, and I have faithfully got you through each one. Transitions are awkward and uncomfortable, but the are necessary in order to have growth. Do not fret when you are in that place, for even in the driest desert, I am there with you

I have not left your side. Even when you are unable to sense My nearness I am still right there with you. My hand is still upon you for good, and I still love you dearly. My love for you is not based on your feelings, and I remain faithful to you even when you go through a period of spiritual dryness.

I know that you love "feeling" My love and nearness. But do not fret when you do not feel as spiritual as you think you should, because our relationship is not based on how spiritual you feel. No, dear one, our relationship goes much deeper than feelings---and I know how committed you are to obey Me, honor Me and to do My will. There will be day when you are less successful at walking in the Spirit, and days when you are less able to sense My leading. But know that I do not stop loving you because you have one of those days, for I am your loving heavenly Father. i do not disown My children for trivial things nor do I get angry at then for growing and maturing, even when they must go through on of those awkward periods of transition.

I want you to keep growing, that you might become more mature in Me. I want to transform your character and your thinking to be more like My own. And that is why I bring you through these times of transition---it is never to punish you or to make you miserable, it is that you might grow, so that you might walk int the fullness of all I created you to be.

Yes, I understand that growth is uncomfortable at times, but it is necessary. there will be times when I will withdraw the sense of My presence because of something that I am trying to accomplish in you. there are times when your spiritual growth requires that you stand in faith when I seem to be far away. There are times when you must continue to walk in My ways ever though you feel dry.

Do not fret these times, for I am in them with you, and I will bring you through them. It was never my plan to dump you in the desert and to abandon you there. I am with you ever when you cannot see Me. I am leading you through it, and I will bring you out on the other side.

Relinquish Control and Act by Faith

2009-02-08T21:30:00.000-08:00

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see"

Designed for Love

2009-02-03T22:48:00.000-08:00

The two most difficult things to get straight in life are Love and God. More often than not, the mess people make of their lives can be traced to failure or stupidity or meanness in one or both of these areas.

The basic and biblical Christian conviction is that the two subjects are intricately related. If we want to deal with God the right way, we have to learn how to love the right way. If we want to learn to love the right way, we have to learn how to deal with God the right way. God and love cannot be separated.

Jesus provides the full and true understanding of God; Jesus shows the mature working-out of love. In Jesus, God and love are linked accurately, intricately, and indissolubly.

But there are always people around who don't want to be pinned down to the God Jesus reveals, to the love Jesus reveals. They want to make up their own idea of God, make up their own style of love.

--Message-1 John

Love has been so diluted, corrupted and misrepresented in today's culture. Love is not a fond feeling, or ooey-gooey emotion, in fact it's quite the opposite. Love is challenging, it's a choice, and it's an undertaking that requires commitment. If we really knew about love, it might trigger a second thought. The truth is our culture has taught us that love and infatuation are one and the same with every story ending in 'happily ever after'.

Not so.

If you are a christian, love is actually a command! The greatest commandment is said,

"Love the Lord Your God with all your Heart, Soul, Mind and Strength, and secondly, Love your neighbor as yourself".

This is impossible by our mere human abilities, but with God everything is possible. He knows us better then we know ourselves, and He deciphers the motives of each heart. Loving God is hard enough, especially in all that we are, but with a humble approach and a desire to live for His purposes, He will handle the rest. He is able to manifest the most unbelievable, loving character within us and when this happens there is no way to keep it under lock and key. Therefore the second command is much more easily met.

Love is this:

Patient
Kind
Not envious
Doesn't Boast(brag)
Not Proud
Not Rude
Not self seeking
Not easily angered
Keeps no records of wrongs
Does not delight in evil(sin)
Rejoices with the truth
Always protects
Always trusts
Always hopes
Always perseveres
And NEVER fails!

Apart from being a command, Love is a free gift with no expectation of return. This is what makes it so beautiful, and why love can never fail. It is a gift with no strings attached.

(<------maybe not quite, but it made me laugh)

As we enter this Valentines Day, let's make it meaningful and try on true love for a change. God has promised '[But]...if anyone obeys his word, God's love is truly made complete in him'(1 John 2:5)....'God is love. Anyone who lives in love lives in God, and God in him'.(1 John4:16) So as we are giving freely, God's unconditional love is our recompense and our hearts will be truly satisfied.

Considering the Cusp of 2008

2008-12-26T11:10:00.000-08:00

In the concluding moments of a year past and the commencement of the new, we have, by way of tradition, devised a plan for betterment of self referred to as the "New Year's Resolution".

Why is it that our first thoughts originate around dedicating a generous effort toward dropping pounds, being more organized, cleaning out the garage, constituting a balanced work life, completing 'in-progress' projects, generating more profit then the year previous etc...

These are all respectable considerations, but are they really worthy of a whole years resolution?

Resolution:

The act of resolving or determining upon an action or course of action, method, procedure, etc.
The mental state or quality of being resolved or resolute; firmness of purpose.

In my opinion, they are important. All elements contributing to positive growth and healthy living are essential. However, the most important component is too easily swept beneath the rug.

In a book by Randy Pausch, titled, The Last Lecture, he speaks much about living in the present and yet preparing for the future. He was diagnosed in his mid 40's with a deleterious cancer of the pancreas. Though he opted for the most risky and detrimental treatment options his shelf life was set at 3 to 6 months. With 3 young children under the age of 5 and a loving wife, Randy, a lecturer at Carnegie Mellon, was given the opportunity to deliver his Last Lecture.

Instead of grieving for his own loss or becoming self loathing and bitter, Randy Pausch saw an opportunity; an opportunity to extend life, display love and impart wisdom. Pausch was fortunate to have an expiration date in view. He was able to get his affairs in order, and prepare--as best as one can--his family for his departurer. Most of us are not that lucky.

After reading his memoirs, I thought much about how we 'prepare' ourselves for life in a complete dissarray. Why is it that our resolutions for the year are so superficial? Why do we pump out adrenaline at the gym but pay no attention to our hearts' true health? Even the healthiest of men can pass at the drop of a dime if God so chooses...You may have heard it said,"Everyday is a gift, that is why it's called the present". If you knew that by the end of the week you would be no longer, are your affairs in order? What steps would you take? I'm certain they would be chosen deliberately. What words and actions would be delivered? What would your legacy entail?

Maybe this year should be a year of prioritizing. Priorities will ultimately navigate the path on which you travel. Seek out true health and vitality for this years resolution, find a firmness of purpose! All else will fall in to place once faulty priorities are eradicated and proper preparations are instituted. Best to all of you in 2009!

Stay Sharper Longer

2008-12-03T16:36:00.000-08:00

As most of you readers know I am currently taking courses toward becoming a Registered Nurse. My most recent endeavor has been Microbiology (and a little Pathophysiology on my own time) which has proven to be quite difficult but extremely intriguing. I can be found numerous evenings sprawled out on the living room floor reading about diseases and their symptoms, certain that I have contracted some virus because lately I have felt fatigue, forgetful, accident prone...I undoubtedly have subcortical dementia!

Well, maybe not quite, but haven't we all experienced times where we feel we are 'Losing our mind', 'Not the sharpest tool in the shed', or 'A few fries short of a happy meal'? Personally speaking, those moments come much more often then I would prefer, or like to admit! I regard those 'brain farts'(excuse my un-ladylike expression) as gracious God-given opportunities to remain humble and level headed. Maybe you don't experience these types of "mental pauses", but for those of us who do I conducted a little research of my own to offer a bit of encouragement and steps for reclaiming your brain.

There are several important areas to consider as you pursue brain health and fitness. First and foremost are the basics that we would all guess-i.e. diet, exercise, and rest.
These are key contributors to the output and functioning capabilities of our trustee noggin.

DIET-

Eat a variety of foods. Preparing yourself a rainbow of different foods can help keep your brain healthy for years to come. A varied diet provides numerous vitamins, minerals and nutrients that are needed to keep your brain in top shape.
Add blueberries to your menu. Studies have shown that blueberries play an important role in protecting the brain from oxidative stress as well as reducing the effects of brain impairing diseases such as Alzheimer's and Dementia.
Drink Pomegranate juice, or if you want to add an extra boost of brain juice attempt to open one yourself. Pomegranates have been shown to have extraordinary benefits by providing antioxidants that bind up the body's free radicals(a natural by-product emitted by our cells after the use of oxygen) Free-radicals left unattended lead to most all degenerative diseases, heart disease, cancers and pre-mature aging.
Keep hydrated. Be sure to get your daily intake of WATER. Drinking 8 cups of water per day may sound like a lot, but did you know 8 cups is only what's necessary for replacing the amount of fluid you expel during the day? A typical adult loses 1.5Liters of H20 a day through urine output, and another liter will be expended through perspiration, breathing and bowel movements. Water is also responsible for 77% of our brain weight!
Incorporate a selection a foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B or Alpha-linolenic acid, which in the body, can become omega-3. These fats are vital to brain health. Our brain uses fatty-acids to build specialized cells which allow you to think and feel. Two-thirds of our brain is fat( so if someone calls you a Fat Head, say thank you kindly) and all cells throughout the body rely on fatty acid to form their cell walls. Excellent dietary sources of these healthy fats are found naturally in Salmon(preferably wild), Flaxseed(or flax seed oil/supplement), Walnuts, green leafy vegetables, and sea vegetables.
Eat breakfast. Start your day right by taking the time to care for yourself. It's best to eat larger meals as you start your day and less as it comes to a close. A great food to help you establish a stable blood sugar level and keep you satisfied longer is oatmeal. Steel cut oats may take a little longer to prepare but are preferable to rolled oats. Both, however, provide you the benefit of lowering LDL cholesterol and have shown to offer a significant reduction in cases of heart disease.
Dark Chocolate triggers the systems in your brain that pump dopamine. These systems enable us to learn and enhance memory.

FITNESS-

Fitness is important for brain health, which is ultimately the foundation of our well-being. To get ideas and more advanced information regarding exercise options, explanations and in depth research it may be to your benefit to visit: www.healthlinkblog.blogspot.com. Much time and diligence has been put in to it's content and it will cover far more then I am able to fit in to this blog. Also This article may peak your interest if you have the time to review it.

http://www.tim esonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article564063.ece

OUT & ABOUT-

Take a trip to a museum, or exhibit, register for a class at your church or local community college. In order to keep brain cells growing it is vital that we engage ourselves in new and unfamiliar activities. You may not be aware, but remaining in a redundant and invariable environment actually allows the brain synapses to degenerate . Learning new and challenging activities, and different concepts keep the brain active and encourage the development of new cells. Give an energy boost to your cells by absorbing the new information and relaying it to a friend or colleague. As you recite or write you are holding each idea in mind for the four or five seconds that are needed for the temporary memory to be converted into a permanent one. In other words, the few minutes that it takes for you to review and think about what you are trying to learn is the minimum length of time that neuroscientists believe is necessary to allow thought to go into a lasting, more easily retrievable memory. Grasping a new concept and conveying it to another is shown to be a very effective approach to retain knowledge as well as maintain activity throughout different regions of the brain.
Memorize a song or poetry. Focusing on listening to the song will boost the levels of acetylcholine in your brain, improving your memory abilities. The Hippocampus is responsible for retaining short term memory and allowing for new memories to be formed. By memorizing lyrics to a song or part of your favorite book you are actually exercising this region of the brain and again encouraging an increase of blood flow as well as formation of synapses.
Humor. Life can throw curve balls at us but we can't let it dissolve our happiness. Smiling and laughter, believe it or not, may mitigate our stress and allow for healthier emotions to be established. Laughter stimulates both sides of the brain to enhance learning. It eases muscle tension and psychological stress, which keeps the brain alert and allows the ability to retain more information. Mood is elevated by striving to find humor in difficult and frustrating situations. Laughing at ourselves and the situation helps reveal that small things are not the earth-shattering events they sometimes seem to be. Looking at a problem from a different perspective can make it seem less formidable and provide opportunities for greater objectivity and insight. Humor also helps us avoid loneliness by connecting with others who are attracted to genuine cheerfulness. And the good feeling that we get when we laugh can remain with us as an internal experience even after the laughter subsides.
Socialize. Stay connected with your friends and family. Studies performed on a group of elderly individuals revealed that those who maintained positive social interactions and conversed with others who engaged in mentally stimulating topics/discussions were more likely to have accurate facts and recollection.

R & R-

Sleep in. Getting a few extra hours of sleep, if you've stayed up late or have had a demanding day, can help rejuvenate you and improve your mental abilities. Enjoy resting a little bit longer on your weekend mornings. Lack of sleep allows for so many impairments that could easily be evaded if only we would obey our instinct. The immune system and brain function is severely debilitated when proper rest has not been implemented. It is shown that a sleep deprived individual performs equally poor or worse than an individual who is intoxicated!
Spirituality is more critical then you may choose to believe when it comes to psychological health. This article expounds on the issue and offers a sundry of studies and results that affirm the relationship between spiritual and mental health. Look in to it:

http://stress.about.com/od/optimismspirituality/a/22307_God_power.htm

I could expand this blog in to several volumes but I realize you who have followed me this far in to the article are most likely becoming exhausted by some of its redundancy...I wish you well on your highbrow healthy endeavors, and gladly welcome your questions and commentary. Now go out and Reclaim you Brain!

G.I.V.E.

2008-11-11T09:47:00.000-08:00

Interesting how quickly we become accustomed to having our amenities at our fingertips. As I am sitting here this morning watching the digital clock click over the minutes before I am due at work, I anxiously await any sign of a good Samaritan willing to lend me a shower. It seems to be a common occurrence that the hot water likes to 'sleep in', here at my humble little apartment complex . I should be thankful that I generally have the convenience of running hot water at the twist of my wrist, but this morning I find myself annoyed. Until it's unavailable I forget to appreciate the blessing it is.

I thought of how I might apply this situation in a more meaningful way as I burn the time hoping for a call. I drew a parallel with relationships---friends, family, co-workers, grocery clerks, gym members etc...How often do we forget to smile, extend a greeting, or even acknowledge those around us. At times I feel as if we all revolve around each other like inanimate objects. There is much life behind each set of eyes if we only took the time to extend the invitation for conversation, offer a compliment, or enjoy a warm embrace. I am guilty of allowing too many people to slip by without acknowledging their existence; it's time to change that. Better to live fully and experience rejection then to live withdrawn and never have the chance to experience true life. How will you make an impact, or leave a legacy if you don't extend yourself? Lets think G.I.V.E for the month of November(or whats left of it).

G.ENUINE--be real
I.NTENTIONAL--live it with purpose, direction, and motive
V.ALUE--seek worth in all life
E.MBRACE--love

Don't wait until it's too late to say the words you wanted to say, or accomplish the goals you dreamed of. Don't wait until people are gone before you remember to appreciate them. If there is unfinished business left between you and another, heal it, make amends. Bitterness only destroys the soul of the one who holds it dear. Gift those around you this holiday season with the attributes of G.I.V.E. it's one present that you won't mind if they return or even 're-gift';)

What Will You Choose?

2008-11-05T09:18:00.000-08:00

Your path of Life is a daily choice. What path are you traveling? Is it leading forward to an impending destination or are you wandering the backwoods crossing your fingers you'll happenstance upon a fulfilling future? Do not waste one more day, one more hour, one more minute without observing where you are currently in your spiritual life, emotional being, physical strength, mental health and financial expenditures. The longer we continue traveling the "backwoods" trail(not living with intention and purpose), the further in debt we may become, the deeper in to depression or dissatisfaction we will dive, mental and physical alertness and energy will be squandered and your spirit will be like an empty well.

As I prepared to go to the gym this early Wednesday morning I felt an unusual compulsion to remain at home and study rather then rush out the door. I read over a few emails I had received and then opened my notebook and let the pen begin to write. Before I knew it I had recorded 3 pages of script in response to what I read in Proverbs. This has been the most challenging and yet refreshing thing I have done all week. As I stopped and observed my own Path as of recent...I realized it has been quite a trek through vines and dense foliage as I have become less diligent about discipline in my daily life. Though I thought my laziness was making life lax and enjoyable it actually produced in me a greater anxiety and feeling of despair. Contrary to what our culture preaches, discipline of the body, mind, and soul plays an essential role in the outcome of our future.

I brought these questions to myself this morning as I prayed:
What Path will I chose today?
Am I being complacent or compromising?
What produces Joy and Exuberance in my life?
Am I taking steps toward my desired future?
Do I trust God knows best, and will I submit to Him?

In Proverbs I read these verses which pressed me to look inside and be honest with myself:

Wisdom calls aloud in the street, she raises her voice in the public squares; at the head of the noisy streets she cries out, in the gateways of the city she makes her speech:

'How long will you simple ones love your simple ways?
How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge? If you had responded to my rebuke, I would have poured out my heart to you and made my thoughts known to you.

But since you rejected me when I called and no one gave heed when I stretched out my hand, since you ignored all my advice and would not accept my rebuke, I in turn will laugh at your disaster; I will mock when calamity overtakes you---When calamity overtakes you like a storm, when disaster sweeps over you like a whirlwind, when distress and trouble overwhelm you.

Then they will call to me but I will not answer, they will look for me but will not find me.
Since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord, since they would not
Accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled
With the fruit of their schemes. For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and
the complacency of the fools will destroy them; but whoever listens to me(Wisdom) will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.'

----If you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as silver and search for it as a hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom and from His mouth come knowledge and understanding."

Stop this moment and think about your life. You have Wisdom available to you; Knowledge that will guide your life to an abundant future; will you tap in to it, will you search after it like a hidden treasure? or will you continue down the wayward path? By choosing wisdom, you are choosing life; and you have the ability to positively effect the lives of everyone around you whether it is revealed to you or not. Don't be the foolish one who puts off his/her future, start today taking steps of preparation. Don't waste this opportunity...take a stand for Exuberant LIFE!

Temptation

2008-09-09T16:28:00.000-07:00

A Podcast worth listening to...(approximately 30min in length)

http://livermore.cornerstoneweb.org/avfiles/RLE045-080907_00508.mp3

it can also be found for free on iTunes if you want to put it on an iPod. In the browser search for Cornerstone fellowship and create a free subscription under Steve Madsen.

An Interesting Letter---Only Imperfection is Intolerant of Imperfection

2008-09-04T22:29:00.000-07:00

It seems that you need to be a little more big-hearted about the imperfection of other people. I know you can't help but see these imperfections when they come right before your eyes and neither can you prevent involuntary opinions about others from popping into your mind. And nobody will deny that imperfections of others cause us a lot of inconvenience! But it will be enough if you are willing to be patient with imperfections, whether they be serious or not so serious. Do not allow yourself to turn away from people because of their imperfections.

If there is one mark of perfection, it is simply that it can tolerate the imperfections of others. It is able to adjust. It becomes all things to all men. Sometimes we find the most surprising faults in otherwise good people. But we must not be surprised. It is best to let these faults alone and let God deal with them in His time. If we deal with them, we shall end up pulling up the wheat with the tares. I have found that God leaves, even in the most spiritual people, certain weaknesses which seem to be entirely out of place. This is true of all of us. And all of us need to be quick to recognize our own imperfection, letting God deal with them.

As for you, labor to be patient with the weaknesses of other people. You know from experience how bitterly it hurts to be corrected. So work hard to make it less bitter for others. Although I am not saying you correct others too much. That is not your problem. Your problem is that you become cool when you discover faults in other people, and you tend to quit associating with them. So you need to deal with that problem.

I ask you also not to spare me if I need correction. Even if you mention a fault which isn't really there, there will be no harm done. If I find that your correction wounds me, then my irritability simply shows you have touched a sore spot in my life. But if there is no irritability and resentment, then at least you will have done me an excellent kindness in testing my ability to be humble, and in keeping me accustomed to reproof.

self-examination

2008-08-27T23:01:00.000-07:00

Have you ever encountered someone completely oblivious to the fact that they, themselves, play the starring role in the drama of their life? It cracks me up listening to these gals gossip and complain about the men in their lives, or their 'friends', the troubles at home, work, school etc... They go on and on telling all the nitty-gritty details of some contentious situation and how they were done injustice etc...all the while creating quite an offense themselves.

Unfortunately in this day and age people rarely tend to turn the magnifying glass around.
'Who wants to do that? I mean acknowledging my role in the situation might mean I actually need to do something about it! Way too much work.'
This is the typical subconscious decision being made when someone begins to make a judgement of another. The normalcy of this way of thinking is frightening! It is no wonder why our relationships grow distant and fail at an ever quickening pace.

To have success in any life circumstance you must be introspective in equal or greater portions as your outward observations. It's the one thing you can always grasp, and though it can be challenging and uncomfortable, it produces the best results when exercised. In a time where the majority seek to have "control" in a very variable world, there is one thing-- an extremely crucial element-- that we ultimately CAN control and that is ourselves. Rather then believing it's your co-workers, that are the issue, maybe its you? Instead of assuming you must be God's gift to all the problematic people in your office, maybe you are actually the drama queen(or king...some of you men...i swear) Instead of believing you are a magnet for all the 'weirdos' . . .take a look in the mirror;)

Now I am not being facetious, but honest. So many of us (i included) are guilty as charged for passing the blame. It's time to stop focusing outwardly and instead realize we, ourselves, have so much we could do to better ourselves. I trust you will see a change in your surroundings by making changes in yourself. Altering your attitude and outlook will ultimately adjust your lens on how you perceive the world. Try it out...if I am wrong then forget i ever said it:)

First Day of School

2008-08-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

'First days' are always adventurous, exciting, nerve wracking, and unpredictable. In my case, I have had a roller coaster of all these emotions throughout the past couple weeks; first, relocating to a new area and home, secondly, a new job; thirdly another new job, then quitting an old job; and just yesterday was my first day going back to a brand new school, and not to mention taking public transit...which you guessed it, I am pretty darn new to that as well!

I chose BART to travel to school because it is near my new place and it would be a convenient and less expensive way of transportation--not to mention avoiding the crazy parking situations in Bezerkeley.

To lessen the panic of possibly jumping on a train in the wrong direction I decided to do some homework ahead of time and got myself a BART schedule and map. The map makes it simple enough for a two year old to navigate, yet I still found myself asking the people around me for reassurance regarding what platform I was supposed to transfer on to etc. I was sure that I was going to end up in the wrong place and be late, or even worse, miss my first day of lecture!

As the SFO/Millbrae train made a smooth stop at the platform I jumped on and found a seat. I scanned the car and was pleasantly surprised at how clean it was and how 'safe' the people all appeared to be...this was nothing like the rumors I had heard about BART. I sat back with my iPod in hand and relaxed as the train eased forward...only knocking one elderly, overweight man on top of the woman I had been talking to. (For those of you regular BARTees you must know it can take you by surprise when you aren't positioned in fighting stance) The humor of that situation calmed my anxiety and I was sure that I would successfully find my way to school.

The BART conductor kindly called off every station as we stopped along the way to relieve and reload passengers. Next stop was my place to transfer. So as we slowed to a stop at the MacArthur Station, the conductor explained,

'This is a transfer station, for those of you who wish to continue on to San Francisco/Millbrae please remain seated. For those passengers wishing to travel to Fremont please exit and cross to platform 3. For those passengers heading to Richmond, please exit, go downstairs, and go back up to platform 1'

'SWEET!' I thought to myself,' he made it so easy, 'why did I even worry?!' I sprinted off the train and down the stairs, across the hall and taking steps two at a time back up the other side. Just as I reached the top stair my connecting train arrived. 'This is so my lucky day!!' As I entered the Richmond train...WOW!...that was the only word that came to mind. This was completely different in every way then the last train. I had now entered a shmorgesborg of all ethnicity's and age groups. Though the train car was packed to full capacity and I could hardly see the map, I knew with out a doubt I was heading in the right direction. I don't know what it is(and I don't say this to offend) but I could smell my way to Berkeley. HaHa! I'm not sure why I feared finding my way so much, I should have remembered to simply follow my scent-ses, the hippies, the naturalists, the smarty pants, the guys with no shoes, and the aroma of once every-other-week showerers. These are the fascinating characters that make Berkeley... well Berkeley!

Needless to say, my first day of school was absolutely fantastic! BART, my new school(which actually is brand spankin' new!!and I LOVE it), my professor(she is BOMB), the lecture and area of study(Microbiology...very engaging:)), and my new friends I made in class!! What a splendid first day! Thank you God:)

The Grass is Greener Where You Water It

2008-08-12T18:54:00.000-07:00

Just recently, I for the second time made the 'big move' out of my parents nest and out on my own. As I was tediously packing the vast array of clutter that so gracefully furnished my "rest stop" in Castro Valley, I came across much memorabilia from my childhood. My Ma had so generously decided to assist me with such a feat, so together we laughed and were amazed at my knack for hoarding any sort of reminder of my younger years.

Under the bed I revealed ticket stubs and brochures, birthday cards and bank statements, sugar packets and every sort of odd'n'end imaginable from all places visited, missioned, or vacationed. That part was nothing in comparison to what I discovered while rummaging through the closet. As I knelt on the floor to pull out some shoe boxes I noticed a larger box tucked in the corner. I shifted the heavy box closer to myself and carefully untucked the corners to reveal its contents. Inside were two tall stacks of spiral bound notebooks. To you it may seem kooky, but the pages in each of those notebooks were filled from top to bottom, front and back with the manuscript of my life from my younger years until now.

I had forgotten where I placed all these novellas of my day to day thoughts, experiences, crushes, joys, and tears. For fun I flipped open one and began to read what I wrote. Immediately I was derailed from the duties of packing and was rather engulfed in the humorous and heartfelt messages I had so diligently penned day in and day out. As I shared some memories with my Ma, she laughed and reminded me of how I used to always be eager and expectant of what was next to come in life.

'You always were going to be happy, WHEN. . . happened, or WHEN. . . age came, or AFTER. . . was over. THEN you would truly be content', she reminded me,'You have definitely changed a lot since then, in fact I can hardly recall a scenario when you have repeated those phrases'.

The truth is, I was never going to be happy if I couldn't be satisfied with what I had, and who I was in this very moment. A viewpoint in lack of maturity sees the grass always looking greener on the other side; what is not yours(or what you can't have) must be better then what you already possess. When you have no commitment or responsibility to someone or something it's natural to be drawn toward what is eye catching. There are innumerable examples I can think of that easily lead us to covet, such as-cars, boats, electronics, homes, jobs, incomes, spouses, body types, status, clothes, etc... But what gives something that extraordinary value?

When it comes to relationships and marriage, its the time, effort, love and commitment through thick and thin that so tenderly develops such a beautiful union of two people. From an outside perspective it can be easy to say, 'If only my husband was like hers, then I would be satisfied', or 'If only I had a home like that I would be content', ' If only I had a fit body like hers I would be happy','If only I made more money...'

The truth is, you are more then able to have happiness, joy, and contentment no matter where you are or what you don't have if you are willing to nurture that which you DO have. Water your own lawn, so to speak, and reap the benefits of what lies within your picket fence. Find the positive in every situation. Seek ways to serve your friends, family, neighbors etc. Challenge yourself with this question, 'If I died today would I die content? Or is my soul in a tizzy until whatever it is in the future arrives or is completed?' It would be a shame if the latter were true because no one is guaranteed a certain number of days. Would you forfeit the joy that could be yours daily because of the coveting of something you may never attain or accomplish? Only God knows the amount of breaths you will take on his planet; make the most of every one you receive.

My Theory on High Gasoline Prices

2008-08-06T23:36:00.000-07:00

Haven't we all become so tired of the monotonous reports in every source of news regarding how much were paying at the pump?! I know I have. It seems that the same facts are being presented all day everyday, but who has an explanation or a solution? Neither objects of useful information have been relayed, but for some reason unbenunced to me, they continue to hit the replay button on the drudgery of pulling into your local Chevron.

Secondly, in the uplifting list of announcements the stoic news anchor has to tell us, is, 'We're fat', 'Oh and don't forget, everything is going up in price and potentially sales tax too!'. How wonderful!

See, the truth is actually quite simple. We have heard, and seen, and felt, for quite sometime now that a major portion of Americans are obese; and truly have had no motivation to change. This posed a considerable problem for health insurance companies because now they are paying out big bills for the deteriorating health of their clients. What better way to "motivate"--(ehhemm...force!) the general obese American population to get their tushes moving then to raise the price of gas and in unison the price of food? Brilliant! This recession or 'slow down' has nothing to do with economy, rather it was the remedy for obesity. Americans were making a lot of money, buying bigger vehicles(multiple too), and eating out more frequently, and as a result gained more weight then anyone knew how to handle. We have all had days where we feel fat, and those days often leave us with a lazy, unmotivated, grumpy attitude...so it's no wonder people weren't up trying to go to the gym and do something about it! Instead money would fix the momentary depression with a double chocolate fudge sundae, or a Deep fried steak with extra onion rings---because they are on the Atkins diet of course;0)-- The best way for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services to get us up and active was to not give us an option.

Statistics have shown a massive decrease in mileage driven once prices reached $4p/g, and as a replacement many people have come to rely on bicycles and tennis shoes to reach their destinations. Also, we are eating more reasonable portion sizes, not only because we now have direct deposit at Exxon, but in addition the rising costs at the supermarket. Dr. Laura says it simply,'Eat less. Move More.' it's the lasting cure for weight-loss.

All-in-all, the government actually knocked out three birds with one stone! Food prices up= assist us with portion control, and Gas prices up= motivate Americans to be active, and lower emissions("global warming") :) how kind of them...

'Do As I Do, Not As I say'

2008-08-02T14:55:00.000-07:00

"Do as I do, not as I say"--Wouldn't this arrangement of the popular expression, 'Do as I say, not as I do', be more effective?

For some mysterious reason I have been waking around 4 AM the past few days--It's like the light switch was on, but the light bulb was not lit--thinking about how much I talk. My initial thought was, 'Why the heck am I awake? I would really much rather be sleeping', but as my eyelids would in no way be coerced back to my beauty rest, I sat with the questions now rattling in my mind. I thought to myself, I am always conversing with friends, family, colleagues, etc. offering them my brilliant advice at no expense;0) But these mornings, the only thing that consumed my attention was the never silencing question,'Do I honestly follow my own advice in my daily life?'. It's so simple for me to see clearly when looking at another's life circumstances and troubles, and offer a word of encouragement or a piece of advice...but how clouded is my vision when it comes to my own life? The answer I offer to a friend may in every way be the 'right' thing to do, but if it were my issue, would I follow my own advice?

Needless to say, those flip switch mornings had begun to shed new light on an old truth. I continually heard the phrase ' Do as I do, not as I say', and it puzzled me.

"What does that mean to me? And, why do I keep thinking about that phrase? That's not even how it goes!?"
As I went about my day, I got over the perplexing reasoning behind why I thought of the phrase, but, I kept mulling over what it meant. After much reflection, the current finally reached the light bulb, if you will. It's not the amount of words spoken that shape how people perceive me, but more importantly it's the actions I take. How I make choices, what choices I choose, how I treat other people, how I care for my belongings, how I care for myself, what I do with my free time, how I work...all these things speak volumes, and essentially they can all be done without words.

Today I am challenging myself to replace wordiness with willingness. I want to be more motivated and willing to DO, rather then to SAY. Anyone can talk themselves up, but if there is nothing sustaining the words then it's only so long before they deflate. Many can offer a word of advice, but how many live a life of example? As I contemplated who most inspires me, the people who came to mind were all people of few words but much action. This is my new mission; action before words, and words=actions.