Drugs ....
Really? What is so cool about using something that is going to hurt you, the people close to you, and make you forget what you did, or do things you normally wouldn't do, etc etc etc?
I have never seen the appeal. I pray extremely hard that I can raise my children to have that same feeling.
Alcohol ....
Moderation moderation moderation. This is one of those things I've never seen the appeal. I can honestly say I did not have any alcohol until I turned 21 - and even then I had one wine cooler at my mom's house for my birthday. I don't see any problems with having a social drink here or there. Having a glass with dinner, or a special night with sweetie, etc. But I do not see the point in drinking to point of being drunk. I miss the logic in why it's fun to do something that will give you a headache, make you puke, kill your brain cells, make you do things you will regret or not remember, and possibly harm yourself or someone else.
I hope to teach my children that there is an appropriate time and place to legally have alcohol. Most of all, I hope that I don't make them want to rebel and make foolish decisions regarding it. There is a fine line that I pray we can balance delicately.
Showing posts with label 30 Days of Truth. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 30 Days of Truth. Show all posts
Monday, December 20, 2010
*Day 19: What do you think of religion? Or what do you think of politics?*
I think Religion is just the man-made organization of spiritual matters.
As all man-made things, there are flaws and imperfections. It is good to join with others who share the same faith as you. It is good to have a system to hold you accountable for your spiritual life.
However, I feel it is also important to not put your faith in your religion. My faith is in God and God alone. He is the reason I exist and continue to live. I worship Him, not my religion. I obey Him, not my religion. I want others to know Him, not my religion.
Make sense?
Politics ... man-made organization of chaotic people. When you have some-odd billion/trillion people who are all unique, you will have some-odd billion/trillion opinions about everything. Politics will never please anyone. I feel a majority of political issues boil down to stereotypes. If you are this, you must believe this. Hence the reason I am registered as a "non-party affiliate." I will never fully agree with either party, or whoever is representing either party. I have my own individual views that do not form to any stereotype presented by political parties or groups or whatnot. It's one of those topics that I try not to stress out about because it will not solve anything. There is not going to be a simple solution to problems caused by a society made up of those some-odd billion/trillion people/minds/opinions/personalities etc. So instead of arguing over the decisions made by people who are trying to figure out how to make things better, why don't we all do our small part in the little world we live in to make it better and maybe the whole world would be better :)
That is what I think. :)
As all man-made things, there are flaws and imperfections. It is good to join with others who share the same faith as you. It is good to have a system to hold you accountable for your spiritual life.
However, I feel it is also important to not put your faith in your religion. My faith is in God and God alone. He is the reason I exist and continue to live. I worship Him, not my religion. I obey Him, not my religion. I want others to know Him, not my religion.
Make sense?
Politics ... man-made organization of chaotic people. When you have some-odd billion/trillion people who are all unique, you will have some-odd billion/trillion opinions about everything. Politics will never please anyone. I feel a majority of political issues boil down to stereotypes. If you are this, you must believe this. Hence the reason I am registered as a "non-party affiliate." I will never fully agree with either party, or whoever is representing either party. I have my own individual views that do not form to any stereotype presented by political parties or groups or whatnot. It's one of those topics that I try not to stress out about because it will not solve anything. There is not going to be a simple solution to problems caused by a society made up of those some-odd billion/trillion people/minds/opinions/personalities etc. So instead of arguing over the decisions made by people who are trying to figure out how to make things better, why don't we all do our small part in the little world we live in to make it better and maybe the whole world would be better :)
That is what I think. :)
Thursday, December 16, 2010
*Day 18: Your views on gay marriage.*
Ick ... what a not so fun topic.
First, I must put a qualifier. I feel that there are two different kinds of marriage.
1. Biblical
2. Legal
The first kind of marriage - Biblical. I completely disagree that this is legitimate for homosexuals. I strongly believe that God's intention was that one man would leave his family and marry one woman. I also believe that anything against God's intention and design is wrong. Therefore, if two men or two women wish to be married, I believe it is wrong because it is against the original design of nature that God created.
The second - legal. I understand (and respect) that there are people with different views, understandings, and beliefs than myself. I cannot impose my beliefs on others. So I accept that there will be homosexuals who wish to make commitments to one another to live faithfully - in the same manner as heterosexuals. People who practice this lifestyle should be allowed the same legal benefits as a heterosexual (ie. tax credits, insurance dependents etc). While I don't agree with their lifestyle, I do see a practicality in allowing a legal marriage to take place.
In my opinion, Christian heterosexuals practice both marriage types simultaneously. I am legally married to my husband in the eyes of the state, but I am also spiritually united to my husband in the eyes of God. But I feel homosexuals only practice legal marriage.
These are my views and my views only. The end.
First, I must put a qualifier. I feel that there are two different kinds of marriage.
1. Biblical
2. Legal
The first kind of marriage - Biblical. I completely disagree that this is legitimate for homosexuals. I strongly believe that God's intention was that one man would leave his family and marry one woman. I also believe that anything against God's intention and design is wrong. Therefore, if two men or two women wish to be married, I believe it is wrong because it is against the original design of nature that God created.
The second - legal. I understand (and respect) that there are people with different views, understandings, and beliefs than myself. I cannot impose my beliefs on others. So I accept that there will be homosexuals who wish to make commitments to one another to live faithfully - in the same manner as heterosexuals. People who practice this lifestyle should be allowed the same legal benefits as a heterosexual (ie. tax credits, insurance dependents etc). While I don't agree with their lifestyle, I do see a practicality in allowing a legal marriage to take place.
In my opinion, Christian heterosexuals practice both marriage types simultaneously. I am legally married to my husband in the eyes of the state, but I am also spiritually united to my husband in the eyes of God. But I feel homosexuals only practice legal marriage.
These are my views and my views only. The end.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
*Day 17: A book you’ve read that changed your views on something.*
(haha ... a wee bit behind on this 30 days of truth lol ... but here I go still trotting along)
I apologize if this post rubs anyone the wrong way, I am not expecting anyone to view things the way that I do ... but simply stating my truths.
The book ... "A New Kind of Christian" by Brian McLaren
The changed views ... If I am honest with myself, I think the one thing over the past few years that has changed in my worldview is my understanding of Christianity and the Church. I grew up in a church, was active in my youth group, and was the typical "goody-good, Bible-thumping Christian." But my understandings of what it meant to be a Christian and what it meant to be the Church were so superficial and naive.
I went off to college to study religion and got a job working as a Youth and Children's Minister. I then started Divinity school.
Along this journey of religious education I found myself questioning the way the church functions today, and what it means to be a Christian. (Before I continue, please don't think me heretical. Keep reading!) When I was a kid and youth, I never saw the business side of the church. But as I started working in churches, I had an icky introduction to the world of Church Politics .... wow. I don't remember Jesus establishing any rules on how churches should conduct meetings, and have committees. And I certainly don't remember him saying it's all about membership.
I was already becoming open to new ideas and thoughts, and I read this book for one of my classes and got to attend a lecture given by the author. Simple and amazing ... simply amazing. This book challenged me (the reader) to learn what it means to be a Christian according to Jesus' standards ... not the world's. Jesus set the ultimate example for us ... we are here to serve others, help those who are in need, and spread love to everyone we meet. How often do "Christians" go to church on Sunday morning, and go about their business the rest of the week without another thought about what Jesus would have them do. Or how often do people get into debates about being liberal or conservative, or the legalistic list of dos and don'ts. For me personally, I feel they are all idiotic. We shouldn't be fussing about what "kind" of Christian we are ...there should only be One kind .... the kind that follows the example and teachings of Jesus Christ - period.
Essentially ... my views were changed from how the world views church and Christianity now, to what can I as a Christian and as a member of the Church (aka the Body of Christ) do to share God's love with everyone I meet. And how can churches restructure themselves so that they aren't functioning like a private business, rather a group of people out in the world living like Jesus. As a result, I found myself having a lot of discontent with the "average church in America."
That does not mean I am against church and think we shouldn't go. It means that I can do my part to live like Jesus, and help others to do the same. And pray that one day the church will catch up with the rest of the world.
There is really so much more in this book. It's a great book, but definitely spiritually challenging.
Speaking of ... I think I let someone borrow it. I need to get it back :)
I apologize if this post rubs anyone the wrong way, I am not expecting anyone to view things the way that I do ... but simply stating my truths.
The book ... "A New Kind of Christian" by Brian McLaren
The changed views ... If I am honest with myself, I think the one thing over the past few years that has changed in my worldview is my understanding of Christianity and the Church. I grew up in a church, was active in my youth group, and was the typical "goody-good, Bible-thumping Christian." But my understandings of what it meant to be a Christian and what it meant to be the Church were so superficial and naive.
I went off to college to study religion and got a job working as a Youth and Children's Minister. I then started Divinity school.
Along this journey of religious education I found myself questioning the way the church functions today, and what it means to be a Christian. (Before I continue, please don't think me heretical. Keep reading!) When I was a kid and youth, I never saw the business side of the church. But as I started working in churches, I had an icky introduction to the world of Church Politics .... wow. I don't remember Jesus establishing any rules on how churches should conduct meetings, and have committees. And I certainly don't remember him saying it's all about membership.
I was already becoming open to new ideas and thoughts, and I read this book for one of my classes and got to attend a lecture given by the author. Simple and amazing ... simply amazing. This book challenged me (the reader) to learn what it means to be a Christian according to Jesus' standards ... not the world's. Jesus set the ultimate example for us ... we are here to serve others, help those who are in need, and spread love to everyone we meet. How often do "Christians" go to church on Sunday morning, and go about their business the rest of the week without another thought about what Jesus would have them do. Or how often do people get into debates about being liberal or conservative, or the legalistic list of dos and don'ts. For me personally, I feel they are all idiotic. We shouldn't be fussing about what "kind" of Christian we are ...there should only be One kind .... the kind that follows the example and teachings of Jesus Christ - period.
Essentially ... my views were changed from how the world views church and Christianity now, to what can I as a Christian and as a member of the Church (aka the Body of Christ) do to share God's love with everyone I meet. And how can churches restructure themselves so that they aren't functioning like a private business, rather a group of people out in the world living like Jesus. As a result, I found myself having a lot of discontent with the "average church in America."
That does not mean I am against church and think we shouldn't go. It means that I can do my part to live like Jesus, and help others to do the same. And pray that one day the church will catch up with the rest of the world.
There is really so much more in this book. It's a great book, but definitely spiritually challenging.
Speaking of ... I think I let someone borrow it. I need to get it back :)
Monday, November 29, 2010
*Day 16: Someone or something you definitely could live without.*
Definitely the television!
I can sit in front of the TV longer than I am proud to admit. I just love living vicariously through the characters in my shows :)
But I also know that I get so much more done and I am able to spend more quality time with my family when I don't sit in front of the TV. Carissa has already started showing more of an interest in TV than I am comfortable with. So I have started trying to make a conscious effort to turn off the TV, turn on music, and give her productive things to do or play with.
All the shows I am interested in watching I can watch online so I really don't need the television. :)
I can sit in front of the TV longer than I am proud to admit. I just love living vicariously through the characters in my shows :)
But I also know that I get so much more done and I am able to spend more quality time with my family when I don't sit in front of the TV. Carissa has already started showing more of an interest in TV than I am comfortable with. So I have started trying to make a conscious effort to turn off the TV, turn on music, and give her productive things to do or play with.
All the shows I am interested in watching I can watch online so I really don't need the television. :)
Friday, November 26, 2010
*Day 15: Something or someone you couldn’t live without, because you’ve tried living without it.*
I know this is probably cliche, but I have to say my husband here.
When David and I met in 2000, we lived 12 hours away from each other. He lived in Virginia, and I lived in Florida. The first two years we "talked" - in other words, we liked each other, but weren't dating and didn't date anyone else. In 2002, we officially added the title of boyfriend/girlfriend (although others would insist we were already those things haha). From July 2000-August 2004, we lived apart. We wrote letters, arranged times to chat online, spent lots of money on "calling cards" - back before we had cell phones, and occasionally we were able to arrange meet ups in person. In 2004, we went to college together in NC, but spent summers apart until we got married in 2007.
I know we beat all odds making our relationship work so well with the distance in the beginning. But now that we are together, I couldn't imagine going back to being away from each other all the time. There have been a few occasions that the girls and I have spent a few days with David's parents while he has had to stay behind to work, and I am usually going crazy by the time he joins us or we go back home. I thoroughly enjoy David's family, but it's just not the same being away from him. And I really miss him. During those times, I realize sometimes we take advantage of having each other around all the time.
I have the biggest respect for military wives. I am definitely not cut out for something like that.
When David and I met in 2000, we lived 12 hours away from each other. He lived in Virginia, and I lived in Florida. The first two years we "talked" - in other words, we liked each other, but weren't dating and didn't date anyone else. In 2002, we officially added the title of boyfriend/girlfriend (although others would insist we were already those things haha). From July 2000-August 2004, we lived apart. We wrote letters, arranged times to chat online, spent lots of money on "calling cards" - back before we had cell phones, and occasionally we were able to arrange meet ups in person. In 2004, we went to college together in NC, but spent summers apart until we got married in 2007.
I know we beat all odds making our relationship work so well with the distance in the beginning. But now that we are together, I couldn't imagine going back to being away from each other all the time. There have been a few occasions that the girls and I have spent a few days with David's parents while he has had to stay behind to work, and I am usually going crazy by the time he joins us or we go back home. I thoroughly enjoy David's family, but it's just not the same being away from him. And I really miss him. During those times, I realize sometimes we take advantage of having each other around all the time.
I have the biggest respect for military wives. I am definitely not cut out for something like that.
*Day 14: A hero that has let you down.*
Dear Hero,
When I was young, I looked up to you. I stood up for you. I would have done anything for you.
As I got older, I was able to realize that you didn't always make the right choices. Of course, as a teenager I had no place to say anything. Over time, it seemed you'd changed. But now, I've seen you fall back into your same patterns. As sad as it is, I feel as though I have passed you in terms of maturity. I pray one day that you will finally take necessary steps to improve your life instead of falling into the same cycles over and over again.
Love,
Missie
When I was young, I looked up to you. I stood up for you. I would have done anything for you.
As I got older, I was able to realize that you didn't always make the right choices. Of course, as a teenager I had no place to say anything. Over time, it seemed you'd changed. But now, I've seen you fall back into your same patterns. As sad as it is, I feel as though I have passed you in terms of maturity. I pray one day that you will finally take necessary steps to improve your life instead of falling into the same cycles over and over again.
Love,
Missie
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
*Day 13: A band or artist who has gotten you through some tough days.*
I love listening to music. I have to have music on for filler noise ... and definitely as I am driving down the road. (I even used to have a radio in my shower.) I mostly listen to Country or Contemporary Christian, but I am a child of 80s rock, and even enjoy some pop. I am generally able to be pleased with most music genres - just kind of depends on my mood.
I have always found it funny that whatever mood I am in, or whatever struggle I might be dealing with, a song always manages to come on the radio that is perfect for what I am feeling. But today's prompt asks me to name a band or artist, so I guess I need to pick one.
If I really had to pick one, I think it would be Chris Tomlin. I just love his songs because they are worship. As soon as I hear one, I am compelled to sing along ... and as soon as I do, the words start hitting hard and I can't help but worship my God. No matter what I am dealing with (good or bad), spontaneously breaking out into songs of worship are perfect. My God will help me through the hard times ... but He is also the reason I am as blessed as I am.
One particular song that always comes to mind when I start reflecting ... or somehow always manages to play on the radio when I need it most is Chris Tomlin's song "Our God" .... it completely defines who God is to me and gives me comfort that no matter what I face, He will lead me through. Perfection.
Here are the lyrics to that song:
Water You turned into wine
Open the eyes of the blind
There’s no one like You
None like You
Into the darkness You shine
Out of the ashes we rise
There’s no one like You
None like You
Our God is greater, our God is stronger
God You are higher than any other
Our God is Healer, awesome in power
Our God, Our God…
Into the darkness you shining
Out of the ashes we Rise
There’s no One like You
None like You.
And if Our God is for us, then who could ever stop us
And if our God is with us, then what can stand against?
And if Our God is for us, then who could ever stop us
And if our God is with us, then what can stand against?
What can stand against?
I have always found it funny that whatever mood I am in, or whatever struggle I might be dealing with, a song always manages to come on the radio that is perfect for what I am feeling. But today's prompt asks me to name a band or artist, so I guess I need to pick one.
If I really had to pick one, I think it would be Chris Tomlin. I just love his songs because they are worship. As soon as I hear one, I am compelled to sing along ... and as soon as I do, the words start hitting hard and I can't help but worship my God. No matter what I am dealing with (good or bad), spontaneously breaking out into songs of worship are perfect. My God will help me through the hard times ... but He is also the reason I am as blessed as I am.
One particular song that always comes to mind when I start reflecting ... or somehow always manages to play on the radio when I need it most is Chris Tomlin's song "Our God" .... it completely defines who God is to me and gives me comfort that no matter what I face, He will lead me through. Perfection.
Here are the lyrics to that song:
Water You turned into wine
Open the eyes of the blind
There’s no one like You
None like You
Into the darkness You shine
Out of the ashes we rise
There’s no one like You
None like You
Our God is greater, our God is stronger
God You are higher than any other
Our God is Healer, awesome in power
Our God, Our God…
Into the darkness you shining
Out of the ashes we Rise
There’s no One like You
None like You.
And if Our God is for us, then who could ever stop us
And if our God is with us, then what can stand against?
And if Our God is for us, then who could ever stop us
And if our God is with us, then what can stand against?
What can stand against?
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
*Day 12: Something you never get compliments on.*
Hmm ... I think my clothes or sense of style falls here haha. I am not the "trendiest" person, not a girly girl, and usually just dress for comfort. I tend to buy clothes for daughters (mostly 'cause they outgrow clothes so quickly!) and I make sure they have nice cute clothes. But I haven't gone *clothes shopping* for me since maybe high school? I have picked up a thing or two here and there, and received some for Christmas/Birthday, but I still wear clothes I wore in high school. So needless to say, I don't get many (if any) compliments on my clothes/style. Maybe one day when we aren't living paycheck to paycheck I can afford to update my wardrobe, but until then bring on the jeans and T-shirts :)
Monday, November 15, 2010
*Day 11: Something people seem to compliment you the most on.*
I would have to say that the thing I am complimented most about is my smile. It is one of those things that is contagious, and I try to brighten people's day with a smile. Through high school and some college, I worked in the customer service field and my cheeks usually hurt by the time I got off work. I would always have so many people tell me that I have a nice smile. I don't know what else to write about that ... I guess never underestimate the power of a smile. :)
Thursday, November 11, 2010
*Day 10: Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn’t know.*
Had this question been asked of me when I was in grade school, I probably could have created a list in response. But now that I am grown and more mature, I can honestly say that I don't spend time with people who I know have a negative influence over me, bring me down, or just someone I wouldn't want my children spending too much time with. I now surround myself with friends and family who will only encourage me to make good, sound decisions, and will uplift me. Most people who don't fit this category don't stick around much and don't go out of their way to spend time with me, and I don't go out of my way to spend time with them either. All in all, the people who are worth my time also show me that I am worth their time. And usually, people who consider me worth the effort have similar values that I do.
I know ... boring. But I'd rather have a happy boring life than have it filled with unnecessary drama. :)
I know ... boring. But I'd rather have a happy boring life than have it filled with unnecessary drama. :)
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
*Day 9: Someone you didn’t want to let go, but just drifted.*
I grew up in a small town in Florida. I have friends I've known since I was born. We went to the same church, and to the same school from 1st grade-12th grade. After high school, I moved to North Carolina for college and I am still here. It's been almost 2 years since my last trip to Florida. Needless to say, I have drifted apart from some of those friends. Some of them I still keep in touch with some on Facebook, but nothing like I used to.
But out of all those friends, there is one person who I really miss: my best friend, Tana.
I met Tana in the 5th grade. In 6th grade, we rode the same bus and I have her highlighted in my yearbook as my one of "good friends." But in my 7th grade yearbook, she isn't highlighted - guess we didn't have similar classes that year. But in 8th grade, (if you remember I went to 3 different schools that year), my 3rd school of the year was back to my hometown school - Eustis Middle School. We had art class together and sat at the same table, and I got a chance to really get to know her. I invited her to church with me one Wednesday. She started coming with me, and ended up accepting Jesus as her Lord and Savior - I will NEVER forget that day! From then on, we were inseparable. We went to school together, church together, lived within walking distance of each other, played soccer together, and I even got her a job with me! We were so close that she was like family. She never knocked when she came over ... just walked in and came right up to my room. We have so many good memories! I could write a lot if I were to talk about all of them haha!
But then college. I left for North Carolina, and she went allllll the way to Seattle, Washington. We both got busy with college. We do still make a point to call each other to catch up. And when we do, I love that it's as if nothing has changed and we pick up where we left off. Which reminds me ... it's time for one of those catch up conversations!
She flew out and was a bridesmaid in my wedding - after not seeing each other for over 2 years ... and that was the last time I've seen her (June 23, 2007). My sweet Tana got married this past summer .... and the plan would have been for me to be at her wedding too ....... but, my sweet Kathryn decided to be born 2 weeks before her wedding. That would have been really overwhelming trying to fly all of us with a newborn out to Seattle. So I sadly and regretfully missed her wedding. But I do plan to try and go see her as soon as I can!
I miss her so much. I have yet to have a friendship like the one her and I shared! *tears*
Love you Tana!
Pics are from my wedding June 23, 2007
But out of all those friends, there is one person who I really miss: my best friend, Tana.
I met Tana in the 5th grade. In 6th grade, we rode the same bus and I have her highlighted in my yearbook as my one of "good friends." But in my 7th grade yearbook, she isn't highlighted - guess we didn't have similar classes that year. But in 8th grade, (if you remember I went to 3 different schools that year), my 3rd school of the year was back to my hometown school - Eustis Middle School. We had art class together and sat at the same table, and I got a chance to really get to know her. I invited her to church with me one Wednesday. She started coming with me, and ended up accepting Jesus as her Lord and Savior - I will NEVER forget that day! From then on, we were inseparable. We went to school together, church together, lived within walking distance of each other, played soccer together, and I even got her a job with me! We were so close that she was like family. She never knocked when she came over ... just walked in and came right up to my room. We have so many good memories! I could write a lot if I were to talk about all of them haha!
But then college. I left for North Carolina, and she went allllll the way to Seattle, Washington. We both got busy with college. We do still make a point to call each other to catch up. And when we do, I love that it's as if nothing has changed and we pick up where we left off. Which reminds me ... it's time for one of those catch up conversations!
She flew out and was a bridesmaid in my wedding - after not seeing each other for over 2 years ... and that was the last time I've seen her (June 23, 2007). My sweet Tana got married this past summer .... and the plan would have been for me to be at her wedding too ....... but, my sweet Kathryn decided to be born 2 weeks before her wedding. That would have been really overwhelming trying to fly all of us with a newborn out to Seattle. So I sadly and regretfully missed her wedding. But I do plan to try and go see her as soon as I can!
I miss her so much. I have yet to have a friendship like the one her and I shared! *tears*
Love you Tana!
Pics are from my wedding June 23, 2007
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Day 8: Someone who made your life ---, or treated you like crap.
This is tough. I really don't think I have had anyone be that horrible to me.
Honestly, when I think about this the only thing that really comes to mind is 8th grade (I know so juvenile).
I went to three different schools that year. The second school I attended that year had a group of "preps" who for some reason didn't like me from the beginning. I really don't know why they seemed to hate me so much because there was never any big "thing" that caused conflict between us. They just singled me out from day one. The only thing I can think of was that they didn't like the fact that I was new and made a lot of friends so quickly.
Whatever their reason, I soon became "big nose" and "grasshopper" to them?! Like I said, juvenile. I got used to the giggles as I walked by, or being called the names, or mean looks and snide comments. But the type of person I am never let it get to me. It's funny how even though it never really bothered me, I still remember it.
I guess that's my story for today.
Sorry nothing really deep and reflective today. :)
Honestly, when I think about this the only thing that really comes to mind is 8th grade (I know so juvenile).
I went to three different schools that year. The second school I attended that year had a group of "preps" who for some reason didn't like me from the beginning. I really don't know why they seemed to hate me so much because there was never any big "thing" that caused conflict between us. They just singled me out from day one. The only thing I can think of was that they didn't like the fact that I was new and made a lot of friends so quickly.
Whatever their reason, I soon became "big nose" and "grasshopper" to them?! Like I said, juvenile. I got used to the giggles as I walked by, or being called the names, or mean looks and snide comments. But the type of person I am never let it get to me. It's funny how even though it never really bothered me, I still remember it.
I guess that's my story for today.
Sorry nothing really deep and reflective today. :)
Monday, November 8, 2010
*Day 7: Someone who has made your life worth living for.*
I have a side note written in the margins of my Bible that I immediately thought of when I read today's topic. It says, "He is worth living for, because I am worth dying for." My answer for today is that Jesus Christ is someone who has brought meaning and purpose to my life. He is the reason I live. He is the one who brings worth to my life. Without Him, I am nothing.
I don't always know what direction my life is heading. I don't always know why certain things have happened. And I certainly don't have all the answers. But the one thing I do know is that no matter what happens in my life, I have someone who loves me and wants the best for me. In fact, He loves me more than I can fathom. Who else would give up their spot in Heaven, take on the chains of human flesh, be tempted with a sinful nature, spend day after day with sick, poor sinners, and eventually be murdered a criminal's death all so I can be with them in heaven one day. It is so humbling to realize that someone literally sacrificed His physical life so He could be with me forever.
It is also mind-blowing to think that when it came time to create me, God spent intimate time designing every characteristic of who I am. I wasn't made from random particles bumping into each other and by chance I am human. He thought about who I would be. He thought about the name my parents would give me. He thought about what I would look like. He thought about what kind of child I would be growing up. He thought about the kind of student I would be. He thought about the kind of friend I would be. And he decided how little ol' me would fit into His masterpiece He is creating - His Kingdom. I like to think that He is painting a wonderful portrait of His Kingdom, and we are the tools he uses. And when he made me, he thought about what kind of tool I would be, and what part of His portrait He would use me to paint. He knew my thought processes. He knew the different things that would happen in my life to shape me into the person I would become. All of these things He spent time thinking about as he carefully shaped me with His own hands and as He breathed life into me, leaving His fingerprints and DNA on me.
I may not know what else is to come in my life. But I know that there are so many big things in store, and that I have a wonderful life because my God, my Father, my Creator has laid out some wonderful blueprints for me life. And I have an amazing future in heaven one day because my Jesus, my Savior, my Lord sacrificed His all so I could have it all.
I couldn't ask for things to be any different. I am truly blessed.
I don't always know what direction my life is heading. I don't always know why certain things have happened. And I certainly don't have all the answers. But the one thing I do know is that no matter what happens in my life, I have someone who loves me and wants the best for me. In fact, He loves me more than I can fathom. Who else would give up their spot in Heaven, take on the chains of human flesh, be tempted with a sinful nature, spend day after day with sick, poor sinners, and eventually be murdered a criminal's death all so I can be with them in heaven one day. It is so humbling to realize that someone literally sacrificed His physical life so He could be with me forever.
It is also mind-blowing to think that when it came time to create me, God spent intimate time designing every characteristic of who I am. I wasn't made from random particles bumping into each other and by chance I am human. He thought about who I would be. He thought about the name my parents would give me. He thought about what I would look like. He thought about what kind of child I would be growing up. He thought about the kind of student I would be. He thought about the kind of friend I would be. And he decided how little ol' me would fit into His masterpiece He is creating - His Kingdom. I like to think that He is painting a wonderful portrait of His Kingdom, and we are the tools he uses. And when he made me, he thought about what kind of tool I would be, and what part of His portrait He would use me to paint. He knew my thought processes. He knew the different things that would happen in my life to shape me into the person I would become. All of these things He spent time thinking about as he carefully shaped me with His own hands and as He breathed life into me, leaving His fingerprints and DNA on me.
I may not know what else is to come in my life. But I know that there are so many big things in store, and that I have a wonderful life because my God, my Father, my Creator has laid out some wonderful blueprints for me life. And I have an amazing future in heaven one day because my Jesus, my Savior, my Lord sacrificed His all so I could have it all.
I couldn't ask for things to be any different. I am truly blessed.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
*Day 6: Something You Hope You Never Have To Do*
There are many things that I could list, but I think number one on my list would be that I hope to never have to experience a violent crime against my family. I watch too many crime shows and I cringe just to think about if something like that were to ever happen to us. I like to think "that will never happen to us." But then I think about all the people who really do have vicious crimes performed against them, and I wonder if they thought the same thing. I honestly don't want to ever be faced with a situation like those I see on Criminal Minds, the CSI shows, etc etc. It's horrible. And the sad thing is that prisons are full because those crimes are a reality. There are a lot of sick people in this world, and I would hate to be the victim of chance. I couldn't imagine if something horrible were to ever happen to my family.
A close second in my list of things to never do would be to experience the death of one of my children or my husband. And I also hope I am able to live a full life with them so David doesn't have to raise our children without me.
I know this is kind of dark. But it's a real fear I have when I think about my daughters and husband.
A close second in my list of things to never do would be to experience the death of one of my children or my husband. And I also hope I am able to live a full life with them so David doesn't have to raise our children without me.
I know this is kind of dark. But it's a real fear I have when I think about my daughters and husband.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
*Day 5: Something You Hope to Do in Your Life*
I really hope to take a trip that includes leaving North America. My number one place I have always dreamed of going is Italy! Florence, Italy would be my first choice. I would love to see the art and architecture. 
Just to experience the grandeur would be amazing. My second choice would be Paris, France.
But when I get to take a trip like this, I want it to be a family trip. I would love to take my children places that I never got to see when I was young. I want them to have lots of cultured experiences growing up to give them a well-rounded foundation. I want my children to grow up with an appreciation of the different cultures. Then maybe they will continue the tradition with their children. I love getting to see my little ones 
experience something new, and I think it would be fantastic to share the experience of seeing a different country. (Especially since David rubs it in that he has been to those places :-P) 
Just to experience the grandeur would be amazing. My second choice would be Paris, France. But when I get to take a trip like this, I want it to be a family trip. I would love to take my children places that I never got to see when I was young. I want them to have lots of cultured experiences growing up to give them a well-rounded foundation. I want my children to grow up with an appreciation of the different cultures. Then maybe they will continue the tradition with their children. I love getting to see my little ones experience something new, and I think it would be fantastic to share the experience of seeing a different country. (Especially since David rubs it in that he has been to those places :-P) 
Friday, November 5, 2010
*Day 4: Something You Have to Forgive Someone For*
This answer came pretty quickly to me, but it is something that I have been working on for a long while. In some regards, I have moved forward ... in others, it is still a work in progress.
The people ... my parents.
The what ... a lot.
Without writing a book about my life story (which I could and maybe I should someday), my childhood was not all peaches and cream. I grew up with parents whose personalities made them clash ALL the time, so much so that there weren't many days without fights (that sometimes turned physical). As the oldest of 5 kids, I took on a "caregiver role" for my siblings. When I was around the age of 12, they decided on a divorce - which opened up a whole new can of worms revolving around custody battles, bad mouthing one another, using the kids to hurt the other parent, and the list could go on and on. We went from parent to parent, to foster care, to parent, to family members, back to parents; and some13 years later, they are still having issues (that I am thankfully completely separated from).
Upon starting my own family, I resolved to forgive my parents and move on so we can all have a good relationship. I want my children to know and love their grandparents (all of them), and I don't want them to inherit the stupid drama that I have dealt with for the first 22 years of my life.
I am happy to say that I have a good relationship with both my parents and my stepmom, and I have been able to learn from their failures (and their successes) to make me the mother and wife that I am today. I have been able to see the way they treated each other and their children (even if unintentionally) and turn that around so that I can have a healthy relationship with my husband, and am able to encourage my children and teach them good values in life. And most importantly, I have learned the value of modeling for my children. My parents forgot the value of their actions when it comes to raising children. Words only go so far. Children pick up on what they see the people they love do.
For me, I think who my parents were has helped me to define the kind of person I want to be. And I thank God for helping me create a good life out of something yucky.
The part of all this that I struggle with 100% forgiveness is when I look at my siblings. I think they were impacted more so with all the "junk" because they were younger. I have seen my siblings struggle with issues of faith, with relationships, and some even with the ability to make wise decisions for themselves. And this ... I blame my parents (both of them). I see my parents' issues and their inability to demonstrate for my siblings how to make good choices or how to love your spouse as reasons why my siblings don't realize there is more in store for them if they just fight for it. I pray that they can see that even though I grew up in the same household as them, I was able to break the cycle and make a great life for myself ... and this is possible for them as well. THIS is my work in progress in the forgiveness department.
The people ... my parents.
The what ... a lot.
Without writing a book about my life story (which I could and maybe I should someday), my childhood was not all peaches and cream. I grew up with parents whose personalities made them clash ALL the time, so much so that there weren't many days without fights (that sometimes turned physical). As the oldest of 5 kids, I took on a "caregiver role" for my siblings. When I was around the age of 12, they decided on a divorce - which opened up a whole new can of worms revolving around custody battles, bad mouthing one another, using the kids to hurt the other parent, and the list could go on and on. We went from parent to parent, to foster care, to parent, to family members, back to parents; and some13 years later, they are still having issues (that I am thankfully completely separated from).
Upon starting my own family, I resolved to forgive my parents and move on so we can all have a good relationship. I want my children to know and love their grandparents (all of them), and I don't want them to inherit the stupid drama that I have dealt with for the first 22 years of my life.
I am happy to say that I have a good relationship with both my parents and my stepmom, and I have been able to learn from their failures (and their successes) to make me the mother and wife that I am today. I have been able to see the way they treated each other and their children (even if unintentionally) and turn that around so that I can have a healthy relationship with my husband, and am able to encourage my children and teach them good values in life. And most importantly, I have learned the value of modeling for my children. My parents forgot the value of their actions when it comes to raising children. Words only go so far. Children pick up on what they see the people they love do.
For me, I think who my parents were has helped me to define the kind of person I want to be. And I thank God for helping me create a good life out of something yucky.
The part of all this that I struggle with 100% forgiveness is when I look at my siblings. I think they were impacted more so with all the "junk" because they were younger. I have seen my siblings struggle with issues of faith, with relationships, and some even with the ability to make wise decisions for themselves. And this ... I blame my parents (both of them). I see my parents' issues and their inability to demonstrate for my siblings how to make good choices or how to love your spouse as reasons why my siblings don't realize there is more in store for them if they just fight for it. I pray that they can see that even though I grew up in the same household as them, I was able to break the cycle and make a great life for myself ... and this is possible for them as well. THIS is my work in progress in the forgiveness department.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
*Day 3: Something You Have to Forgive Yourself For*
Honestly, as crazy as this may sound to some, I have to learn how to forgive myself when I fall short of my given expectations. And for those of you who know me know that I hold myself to pretty high standards. When I was in high school, I had a handmade "sign" on my wall with a quote for me to live by. The quote was from Henry Ward Beecher and it said, "Hold yourself responsible for a higher standard than anyone else expects of you." And I do. I am your typical perfectionist. And when I am unable to live up to my own expectations (which is often), I beat myself up. It's amusing to me that I have so many people comment on how much I do, and how impressed they are with me, and yet I just want to laugh and say, "Yeah right! I am horrible." as soon as people start complimenting me, I start thinking of the areas I fall short of where I would like to be. I have always been this way. One good example is school. From K-12 I had straight A's (and yes I was valedictorian), but in 7th grade one of my midterm report cards (not even the final grade) had a B on it. I got sooo upset and actually crumpled up my report card. Of course I got fussed at for what I did to the report card, not the B.
I have found that now that I am a mom with the responsibility of modeling good life skills to my daughters, I have raised my standards and beat myself up more when I fall. So much so that I emotionally feel down and almost depressed at times.
In my attempts to solve this problem, I have started the FlyLady "self-help" for people like me. The entire premise behind this process is to help us FLY. FLY stands for Finally Loving Yourself. I still have a long way to go. But once I learn to forgive myself for not being perfect, then I think I can be happy with less than.
I have found that now that I am a mom with the responsibility of modeling good life skills to my daughters, I have raised my standards and beat myself up more when I fall. So much so that I emotionally feel down and almost depressed at times.
In my attempts to solve this problem, I have started the FlyLady "self-help" for people like me. The entire premise behind this process is to help us FLY. FLY stands for Finally Loving Yourself. I still have a long way to go. But once I learn to forgive myself for not being perfect, then I think I can be happy with less than.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
*Day 2: Something You Love About Yourself*
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
*Day 1: Something You Hate About Yourself *
I hate the never-ending cycles of catch up, crash and burn, fall behind, catch up. Now, to be truly honest, I hate that I know the root of the problem, and still I somehow fall into the same trap. I am a perfectionist. If I am going to do something, I want to be able to give it 200%. So I end up taking on a project and making it 20 times harder than it needed to be. Then I get behind in other areas of work (usually in the department on cleaning), and it completely stresses me out to look at how much I need to do. And then I become so overwhelmed, that I physically can't seem to function to anything. Before I know it, I have company coming and I have to get my house cleaned, and clean it all at once. And the whole cycle starts again! I hate the feeling of getting behind but not being motivated to catch up and stay caught up.
I KNOW that I need to take small steps, and allow myself to not be perfect, and just do little things to stay caught up instead of playing catch up all the time. But I hate that no matter how much I *know* this, I haven't been able to fix it yet. *Sigh* One of these days ....
I KNOW that I need to take small steps, and allow myself to not be perfect, and just do little things to stay caught up instead of playing catch up all the time. But I hate that no matter how much I *know* this, I haven't been able to fix it yet. *Sigh* One of these days ....
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