Tonight marks the end of 2007 and the beginning of a new year... another year... a fresh start. So what are my hopes for the new year?? I just hope to grow and become the woman God intended me to be and as I pondered this, I went back and read the speak that was given to us by one of our professors on graduation day. It spoke to my heart on graduation day and probabaly will for the rest of my life... so I wanted to share a portion of it with you.
"You're going to walk out of here this afternoon ith one thing that nobody else has -and that is your true self, your unique personality - you are the only person who has sole custody of your life, your unique potentional, and only you can fight your individual battle to live a real life, to become the most human you can be, to live the joyful, abundant life that Christ has offered to each of us. And my advice to each of you today - and anybody who has had me in class will know what I'm going tos ay - is "get a life." Get a real life, not the articial life, the rat race life, but get a real life..."Each of us needs to discover what makes him or her most joyful, most alive, for this is the true battle of life - to become fully human, and this is the battle we all can win because this is the battle that God wants us to win." As Jesus said, I have come that you might have life, and that you might have it more abundantly." God wants each of us to find this live, to live deliberately, to live consciously, as sons and daughter of God, and to achieve that joyful, abundant life......
Society, friends, graduate school, and maybe even family sometimes will constantly be pulling you away from the real life to the weatlhy life, the successful life, many the safe life, the life that will make them proud of you, the life our cultures tells you you're supposed to live. And there may be hardly any voices actually applauding you as you cosciously make that effort to become truly humand and open yourself up to every precious moment of every precious day that you live becoming the person God has created you to be. But...if you never truly learn to live in the present moment, never learn to savor the unique flavor of every day of your life (both the painful ones and the joyful ones), if you never really follow the voice of your joy and become that unique person you were created to become, you will miss out on the real life, and you will die having never lived - and living is too precious for that. There is something more sad than being diagnosed with a terminal illness and that is never living - only participating in the shadow our culture tells us is the good life... But this is how I want my resume to read, and I hope whenI come to die it will read this way. ----- I am a friend to my husband and a loving mother, and I have tried never to let my career or my self centeredness stand in the way of my being a good parent, a loving friend, or the human God wants me to become. I no longer consider myself the center of the universe. I have learned to pay attention toe ach moment and to each person who crosses my path. I show up for each day of my life - I really show up for each day of my life, I'm there; I try to listen to its voice and its uniqueness and enter fully into it. I have at times experienced deep joy and deep sorrow, and I have learned to be content in all circumstances realizing that the cup of life which God gives ut ot drink has both sorrow and sweetness in it. I have learned to laugh, to love, to cry, to play. And throughout the day to listen to the still, quiet voice of God, and I genuinely attempt to love God with all my heart, my mind, and my being, and I try to love my neighbor unconditionally. I have learned to treasure every moment I have with each person, to savor each sunrise and each sunset, adn to thoroughly immerse myself in the joy and wonder of living.
And I would urge each of you, unique, wonderful individuals, all of you - get a life. Get a real life, not a manic pursuit of your next promotion, the bigger paycheck, the larger house, the busier life. Do you think those things are going to matter if you get cancer? Do you think those things are going to matter when everything seems to have fallen out of your world? EAch time you look at your diploma, I want you to stop and remember that you are still a student and you always will be a student - still learning how to love God, to love others, to live fully. Always maintain a childlike amazement at and openness to life. Frederick Buechner once wrote that the worst sentence in the world is "I"m just killing time because time is all we have, and it's not time we are killing its our own lives we're killing. NEver get bored with life. Live your life. Live it fully. And remember that this life is the only one you get in this world, and you have no business taking it for granted or wating it in trivialities...it is so easy to exist instead of to live. I hope that I learned to live many years ago and am still learning each day. And I urge you to reasure your friends, your family, the breath of air you inahle every moment. And work at loving others and expressing that love to them. Oky, I want each ofy ou today to do this for me; write a letter to somebody and tell them you appreciate them, kiss your mother or your father or you grandparents, hug your friends. Tell those friends who have touched you how much they have meant to you. Tell that classroom member how much he or she has meant to you. TEll those people who have touched you "thank you". Get a life which you are generous to those around you." ..........
Professor Portfleet
Hope College Graduation 2007
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Community. Something I am really lacking in my life right now. I have an abundance of friends. It's not that. I just don't have a group of people. People who will hold me accountable. Talk to me about everything from love to how work was last night. My only prayer for the new year is that I can build community - a firm foundation of friendships that can carry with me. I feel like a part of me is missing because I don't have this. I'm desperately trying to find a way to build this, but I'm not sure how. We all need community - especially as Christians. So how do we do it? How do we build community? What does community look like? I'm so jealous of people who have it and I hate that jealousy. I can do this. I can become a part of a community. I just need to put in the effort.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
"You are born crying, while everyone around you is smiling. Live your life so that when you die, you are the one smiling and everyone around you is crying."
The other night I had to deal with my first resident death at work. Though I wasn't close to the resident, it really got me thinking about the end of my life. My co-workers and I were talking about all the people whose families aren't here when their loved ones die. Can you imagine dying alone? I pray that I don't have to go through that - that I am surrounded by love when I'm taken by my Heavenly Father.
Short thought - but I just really need to start LIVING life. Not holding back. Something could happen tomorrow. Would I feel like I lived life to the fullest?? I'm not sure.....
The other night I had to deal with my first resident death at work. Though I wasn't close to the resident, it really got me thinking about the end of my life. My co-workers and I were talking about all the people whose families aren't here when their loved ones die. Can you imagine dying alone? I pray that I don't have to go through that - that I am surrounded by love when I'm taken by my Heavenly Father.
Short thought - but I just really need to start LIVING life. Not holding back. Something could happen tomorrow. Would I feel like I lived life to the fullest?? I'm not sure.....
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Hebrews 1: 3 -4
" The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the EXACT representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. AFter he had provided purification for sings, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs."
Hebrews 10:11 -14
" DAy after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sings. But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God... because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy."
So I heard this AMAZING sermon at Central Wesleyan this past week. It talked about "What does it mean for God to sit down?"
The old testament talks about the tent and the tabernacle and how the priests were continuously moving with God. In these tents and tabernacles they had no stool, chair, or couch, only the mercy seat which was set for Jesus. The priests NEVER sad down because they were never done with their work. Jesus sat down, however, because through Him, all things were finished. Victory in Jesus! So as you can see form the passages above, we can offer sacrifices, but we can never take away sin. Jesus paid the ultimate sacrifice and there is nothing we can do to ADD to what Jesus has done. So rather than doing deeds FOR Jesus to love us, we need to do deeds BECAUSE Jesus loves us. There is NOTHING you can do to make Jesus love you. He loves you just as you are. All are welcome.
That's the jist of the sermon. It was just a very deep look at what seemed like such a simple passage, but in truth had such a HUGE impact on our Christian faith. To think Jesus is the only one who can truly say He is done... the only one worthy of sitting at the right hand of the Father and how foolish of us to think that we could possibly do something here on earth that would equal his grandeur.
" The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the EXACT representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. AFter he had provided purification for sings, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs."
Hebrews 10:11 -14
" DAy after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sings. But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God... because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy."
So I heard this AMAZING sermon at Central Wesleyan this past week. It talked about "What does it mean for God to sit down?"
The old testament talks about the tent and the tabernacle and how the priests were continuously moving with God. In these tents and tabernacles they had no stool, chair, or couch, only the mercy seat which was set for Jesus. The priests NEVER sad down because they were never done with their work. Jesus sat down, however, because through Him, all things were finished. Victory in Jesus! So as you can see form the passages above, we can offer sacrifices, but we can never take away sin. Jesus paid the ultimate sacrifice and there is nothing we can do to ADD to what Jesus has done. So rather than doing deeds FOR Jesus to love us, we need to do deeds BECAUSE Jesus loves us. There is NOTHING you can do to make Jesus love you. He loves you just as you are. All are welcome.
That's the jist of the sermon. It was just a very deep look at what seemed like such a simple passage, but in truth had such a HUGE impact on our Christian faith. To think Jesus is the only one who can truly say He is done... the only one worthy of sitting at the right hand of the Father and how foolish of us to think that we could possibly do something here on earth that would equal his grandeur.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Luck vs. Blessing
http://www.boundless.org/2005/articles/a0001620.cfm
I just read this article on Boundless.org and thought it was great. Something I definitely had never thought about before and something I definitely need to be more conscious of in the future. When we say we're "lucky" we're taking our lives out of God's hands. When we say we are "blessed" it's a way of praising God for what He's given us. So I no longer want to be lucky. I forever want to be blessed.
I just read this article on Boundless.org and thought it was great. Something I definitely had never thought about before and something I definitely need to be more conscious of in the future. When we say we're "lucky" we're taking our lives out of God's hands. When we say we are "blessed" it's a way of praising God for what He's given us. So I no longer want to be lucky. I forever want to be blessed.
Friday, November 23, 2007
A little CS Lewis for your morning....
Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art... It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival.
Some people feel guilty about their anxieties and regard them as a defect of faith but they are afflictions, not sins. Like all afflictions, they are, if we can so take them, our share in the passion of Christ.
- CS Lewis
Some people feel guilty about their anxieties and regard them as a defect of faith but they are afflictions, not sins. Like all afflictions, they are, if we can so take them, our share in the passion of Christ.
- CS Lewis
Monday, November 19, 2007
For that I am thankful...
So Thursday is Thanksgiving... the time we get together with family and/or friends and thank God for all of the blessings He's so graciously poured down upon us. I just wanted to take a little time to reflect on things that I'm thankful for this year.
1) Friends. No more needed to be said.
2) A job - two jobs. There are so many people who can't even find one job, especially in Michigan and I am so blessed to not have that problem.
3) My financial status. Though I don't have money for luxuries or a lot of entertainment, I have money to pay for shelter, food, and my necessities. Many people cannot say that.
4) Challenges. This past year has been filled with challenge, after challenge, after challenge, but I praise God for those challenges. It has forced me to grow. To look deep within myself. To pull closer to God.
What are YOU thankful for this year??
And then here are some quotes just to get you to think. Sadly I have no song lyrics today :)
'You won't realize how far you've walked until you stop and realize how far you've been."
- Unknown
"Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple."
- Dr. Seuss
And now for something COMPLETELY random. I was looking through pictures of me in the past like 3 years. I sure do change my hairstyle a lot :) Change is good though right?? I know... random.. that is me!
1) Friends. No more needed to be said.
2) A job - two jobs. There are so many people who can't even find one job, especially in Michigan and I am so blessed to not have that problem.
3) My financial status. Though I don't have money for luxuries or a lot of entertainment, I have money to pay for shelter, food, and my necessities. Many people cannot say that.
4) Challenges. This past year has been filled with challenge, after challenge, after challenge, but I praise God for those challenges. It has forced me to grow. To look deep within myself. To pull closer to God.
What are YOU thankful for this year??
And then here are some quotes just to get you to think. Sadly I have no song lyrics today :)
'You won't realize how far you've walked until you stop and realize how far you've been."
- Unknown
"Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple."
- Dr. Seuss
And now for something COMPLETELY random. I was looking through pictures of me in the past like 3 years. I sure do change my hairstyle a lot :) Change is good though right?? I know... random.. that is me!
Monday, November 12, 2007
Single
Ok. Ok. I know I just posted something about singleness like 2 posts ago, but I have to get this off my chest.
I'm single! (Shock, awe, disgust, "What is wrong with you!?") Ok.. those are the responses I get anymore when I say that. Do I ever wish I could change my relationship status on facebook? Of course I do! What 22 year old woman doesn't dream of the day the love of her life will show up and sweep her off her feet. But I am getting exasperated by the continuous conversations that subliminally state that being single is bad, wrong, unexceptable. Who says that!? Who says that at 22, I have to be married or even in a serious relationship for that matter? I am COMPLETELY content in who I am, who I am in Christ, where I am in life. I do NOT need a man to validate me, to make me feel special, to tell me I'm beautiful. My friends are fully capable of satisfying that and I don't even need THEIR validation. Of course it's good to hear those things, to feel those things, but I know. I know without them having to say or do anything. And it took me 22 years to get to that point and you know what, it feels AMAZING.
I long for friendships where this isn't even a topic. Where we can be single and not have to discuss our singleness. Where we don't watch sappy love movies and yearn to be the main, female character. Where we don't talk about who's dating who and how many boyfriends so and so has had. Can't we just be content where we are in life? Can't we just give it over to the LORD and know that HIS timing is true and perfect?
I'm single! (Shock, awe, disgust, "What is wrong with you!?") Ok.. those are the responses I get anymore when I say that. Do I ever wish I could change my relationship status on facebook? Of course I do! What 22 year old woman doesn't dream of the day the love of her life will show up and sweep her off her feet. But I am getting exasperated by the continuous conversations that subliminally state that being single is bad, wrong, unexceptable. Who says that!? Who says that at 22, I have to be married or even in a serious relationship for that matter? I am COMPLETELY content in who I am, who I am in Christ, where I am in life. I do NOT need a man to validate me, to make me feel special, to tell me I'm beautiful. My friends are fully capable of satisfying that and I don't even need THEIR validation. Of course it's good to hear those things, to feel those things, but I know. I know without them having to say or do anything. And it took me 22 years to get to that point and you know what, it feels AMAZING.
I long for friendships where this isn't even a topic. Where we can be single and not have to discuss our singleness. Where we don't watch sappy love movies and yearn to be the main, female character. Where we don't talk about who's dating who and how many boyfriends so and so has had. Can't we just be content where we are in life? Can't we just give it over to the LORD and know that HIS timing is true and perfect?
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Soundtrack of my Life
One of my friends posted something similar on their blog... a soundtrack of their life. And since I'm such a music fanatic and I always have a song running through my head, I thought it would be fun to go through my music and pick out the songs that I would put on my soundtrack of life. So here's the list folks... all GREAT music and I highly recommend it.
1. "Unashamed" - Starfield
"I have not much to offer you. Not near what you deserve. But still I come because your cross, has placed in me my worth. Oh Christ. My king of sympathy whose wounds secure my peace. Your grace extends to call me friend, Your mercy sets me free. CUZ I KNOW I'M WEAK I KNOW I'm UN WORTHY TO CALL UPON YOUR NAME. BUT BECAUSE OF GRACE, BECAUSE OF YOUR MERCY I STAND HERE UNASHAMED."
2. "My Wish" - Rascal Flatts
"My wish for you is that this life becomes all that you want it to your dreams stay big, your worries stay small. You never need to carry more than you can hold and while you're out there gettin where you're gettin to, I hope you know someone loves you and wants the same things to."
3. "What Have I Done?" - Adie Camp
"What have I done, LORD Jesus, to deserve Your endless love? What have I done, LORD Jesus, to worthy of Your grace? What have I done, LORD Jesus, to be standing here with You. What have I done, LORD Jesus, to be worthy of You. FOR I AM NOTHING YET YOU LOVE ME AND I AM NO ONE YET YOU CARE."
4. "Beautiful" - Bethany Dillon
"I wanna be beautiful. Make You stand in awe. Look inside my heart and be amazed. I wanna hear You say who I am is quite enough. Just wanna be worthy of love and beautiful."
5. "If you Want me to" - Ginny Owens
"The pathway is broken and the signs are unclear and I don't know the reason why You brought me here. But just because You love me, the way that You do, I will walk through the valley if You want me to. BECAUSE I'M NOT WHO I WAS WHEN I TOOK MY FIRST STEP AND I'M CLINGING TO THE PROMISE YOU'RE NOT THROUGH WITH ME YET."
6. "Walk by Faith" - Jeremy Camp (It wouldn't be my soundtrack without him :) )
"Will I believe you when You say, Your hand will guide my every way. Will I receieve the words you say, every moment of every day? I will walk by faith even when I cannot see. Because Your broken road, prepares Your Will for me."
7. "Light" - DC Talk
"The disease of self runs through my blood. It's a cancer fatal to my soul. Every attempt on my behalf has failed to bring this sickness under control. Tell me what's going on inside of me. I despise my own behavior. This only serves to confirm my suspicions that I'm still a man in need of a savior.... Oh Lord be my light and be my salvation cuz all I want is to be in the light."
8. "Broken World" - Across the Sky
"Promises shattered. Answers don't come. Friends say Goodbye. Plans come undone. Dreams get crushed. Lies get told. Words can turn cruel. Hearts can grow cold. In a broken world where we cry to feel some hope that helps these hearts to heal. You're my strength. You're my refuge. In a broken world, Jesus, I'm holding to You."
9. "Average Girl" - Barlowgirl
"No more dating. I'm just waiting. Like sleeping beauty my prince will come for me...cuz God is writing my love story.... If you get tired of waiting until he comes, God's arms are the perfect place to run."
10. "Worthy of my Praise " - Selah
"I will follow You through green pastures and sing Hallelujah to Your name. I will follow You through dark disasters and sing Hallelujah through the pain. Even in the shadow of death, I will praise you. Even in the valley I will sing."
11. "Be Like That" - Three Doors Down
"If I could be like that, I would give anything just to live one day in those shoes. If I could be like that, what would I do?"
12. "Have you ever?" - Shawn McDonald
"Have you ever wanted to be someone else? Have you ever wanted to be someone? Have you ever wanted to reach your dreams? Have you ever wanted life to be more than it seems?"
13. "I'm not who I was" - Brandon Heath
"I wish you could see me now. I wish I could tell you how I'm not who I was. Used to be mad at you a little on the hurt side too, but I'm not who I was. I found my way to forgiving you sometime ago, but I never got to tell you so."
14. "East to West" - Casting Crowns
"Don't wanna end up where you found, and it echos in my mind, keeps me awake tonight. Lord you cast my sin as far as the east is from the west.... But today I feel like I'm just one mistake away from you leaving me this way."
15. "For you to notice" - Dashboard Confessional
"I'm starting to fashion an idea in my head where I would impress you with everything I said. But for now I look so longingly, waiting for you to want me. For you to need me. For you to notice me."
16. "Special Friend" - Jordan Hill
"Every now and then you find a special friend who never lets you down. Who understands it all, reaches out each time you fall, you're the best friend that I've found."
17. "Everything" - Lifehouse
"Find me here. Speak to me. I want to feel You. I need to hear You. You are the light that's leading me to the place where I find peace again. You are the hope that keeps me walking. You are the hope that keeps me trusting. You are the light into my soul. You are my purpose. You're everything."
18. "Falling off the Face of the Earth" - Matt Wertz
"Stay away from me, I'll be gone soon. It's just so hard to let go once we've grabbed hold. It's nothing that you've done. You're not the only one. I'm just learning to be in twenty-three places. Cuz I've falling off the face of the earth, crashing into bridges I've burned."
19. "Bring the Rain" - Mercy Me
"I can count a million times people asking me how I can praise even after all that I've gone through. The question just amazes me, circumstances possibly change who I forever am in You? Maybe since my life was changed long before these rainy days it's never really ever crossed my mind to turn my back on You oh LORD, my only shelter from the storm."
20. "In Better Hands" - Natalie Grant
"It's hard to stand on shifting sands. It's hard to shine in the shadow of the night. You can't be free, if you don't reach for help and you can't love if you don't love yourself. Cuz there is hope when my faith runs out, cuz I'm in better hands now."
There you have it. My life in 20 songs :)
1. "Unashamed" - Starfield
"I have not much to offer you. Not near what you deserve. But still I come because your cross, has placed in me my worth. Oh Christ. My king of sympathy whose wounds secure my peace. Your grace extends to call me friend, Your mercy sets me free. CUZ I KNOW I'M WEAK I KNOW I'm UN WORTHY TO CALL UPON YOUR NAME. BUT BECAUSE OF GRACE, BECAUSE OF YOUR MERCY I STAND HERE UNASHAMED."
2. "My Wish" - Rascal Flatts
"My wish for you is that this life becomes all that you want it to your dreams stay big, your worries stay small. You never need to carry more than you can hold and while you're out there gettin where you're gettin to, I hope you know someone loves you and wants the same things to."
3. "What Have I Done?" - Adie Camp
"What have I done, LORD Jesus, to deserve Your endless love? What have I done, LORD Jesus, to worthy of Your grace? What have I done, LORD Jesus, to be standing here with You. What have I done, LORD Jesus, to be worthy of You. FOR I AM NOTHING YET YOU LOVE ME AND I AM NO ONE YET YOU CARE."
4. "Beautiful" - Bethany Dillon
"I wanna be beautiful. Make You stand in awe. Look inside my heart and be amazed. I wanna hear You say who I am is quite enough. Just wanna be worthy of love and beautiful."
5. "If you Want me to" - Ginny Owens
"The pathway is broken and the signs are unclear and I don't know the reason why You brought me here. But just because You love me, the way that You do, I will walk through the valley if You want me to. BECAUSE I'M NOT WHO I WAS WHEN I TOOK MY FIRST STEP AND I'M CLINGING TO THE PROMISE YOU'RE NOT THROUGH WITH ME YET."
6. "Walk by Faith" - Jeremy Camp (It wouldn't be my soundtrack without him :) )
"Will I believe you when You say, Your hand will guide my every way. Will I receieve the words you say, every moment of every day? I will walk by faith even when I cannot see. Because Your broken road, prepares Your Will for me."
7. "Light" - DC Talk
"The disease of self runs through my blood. It's a cancer fatal to my soul. Every attempt on my behalf has failed to bring this sickness under control. Tell me what's going on inside of me. I despise my own behavior. This only serves to confirm my suspicions that I'm still a man in need of a savior.... Oh Lord be my light and be my salvation cuz all I want is to be in the light."
8. "Broken World" - Across the Sky
"Promises shattered. Answers don't come. Friends say Goodbye. Plans come undone. Dreams get crushed. Lies get told. Words can turn cruel. Hearts can grow cold. In a broken world where we cry to feel some hope that helps these hearts to heal. You're my strength. You're my refuge. In a broken world, Jesus, I'm holding to You."
9. "Average Girl" - Barlowgirl
"No more dating. I'm just waiting. Like sleeping beauty my prince will come for me...cuz God is writing my love story.... If you get tired of waiting until he comes, God's arms are the perfect place to run."
10. "Worthy of my Praise " - Selah
"I will follow You through green pastures and sing Hallelujah to Your name. I will follow You through dark disasters and sing Hallelujah through the pain. Even in the shadow of death, I will praise you. Even in the valley I will sing."
11. "Be Like That" - Three Doors Down
"If I could be like that, I would give anything just to live one day in those shoes. If I could be like that, what would I do?"
12. "Have you ever?" - Shawn McDonald
"Have you ever wanted to be someone else? Have you ever wanted to be someone? Have you ever wanted to reach your dreams? Have you ever wanted life to be more than it seems?"
13. "I'm not who I was" - Brandon Heath
"I wish you could see me now. I wish I could tell you how I'm not who I was. Used to be mad at you a little on the hurt side too, but I'm not who I was. I found my way to forgiving you sometime ago, but I never got to tell you so."
14. "East to West" - Casting Crowns
"Don't wanna end up where you found, and it echos in my mind, keeps me awake tonight. Lord you cast my sin as far as the east is from the west.... But today I feel like I'm just one mistake away from you leaving me this way."
15. "For you to notice" - Dashboard Confessional
"I'm starting to fashion an idea in my head where I would impress you with everything I said. But for now I look so longingly, waiting for you to want me. For you to need me. For you to notice me."
16. "Special Friend" - Jordan Hill
"Every now and then you find a special friend who never lets you down. Who understands it all, reaches out each time you fall, you're the best friend that I've found."
17. "Everything" - Lifehouse
"Find me here. Speak to me. I want to feel You. I need to hear You. You are the light that's leading me to the place where I find peace again. You are the hope that keeps me walking. You are the hope that keeps me trusting. You are the light into my soul. You are my purpose. You're everything."
18. "Falling off the Face of the Earth" - Matt Wertz
"Stay away from me, I'll be gone soon. It's just so hard to let go once we've grabbed hold. It's nothing that you've done. You're not the only one. I'm just learning to be in twenty-three places. Cuz I've falling off the face of the earth, crashing into bridges I've burned."
19. "Bring the Rain" - Mercy Me
"I can count a million times people asking me how I can praise even after all that I've gone through. The question just amazes me, circumstances possibly change who I forever am in You? Maybe since my life was changed long before these rainy days it's never really ever crossed my mind to turn my back on You oh LORD, my only shelter from the storm."
20. "In Better Hands" - Natalie Grant
"It's hard to stand on shifting sands. It's hard to shine in the shadow of the night. You can't be free, if you don't reach for help and you can't love if you don't love yourself. Cuz there is hope when my faith runs out, cuz I'm in better hands now."
There you have it. My life in 20 songs :)
"I wanna set the world on fire until it's burning bright for You. It's everything that I desire. Can I be the one You use? I, I, am small but You, You are big enough. I, I am weak, but You, You are strong enough to take my dreams. Come and give them wings. LORD with You, there's nothing I cannot do. There's nothing I cannot do. I wanna feed the hungry children and reach across the farthest land and tell the broken there is healing and mercy in the Father's hands. I, I am small but You, You are big enough. I, I am weark, but You, You are strong enough to take my dreams. Come and give them wings. LORD with You, there's nothing I cannot do." - Britt Nicole
New love of my life... this song!! It just speaks VOLUMES about how I feel right now. I really want the LORD to use me and I feel like He is. The other day at work, it was 6 in the morning. I had slept 4 hours the day before and now had been up for 14 + hours. Inside all I wanted to do was be home, in my bed. But I knew that I still had my job (and another job to go to) to do. And suddenly I was rejuvenated. I walked into each room on last rounds with a huge smile on my face and enthusiastically greeted each resident. As simple as it sounds, my bright attitude in the morning probably set those people up for a good day. Would YOU want to be woken up by someone who's super grumpy!? No...... So LORD use me.
Another thing on my mind right now... friendships. For those of you who know me well, you know that I don't take my friendships lightly. Reason being, my friends are not just fleeting relationships to me. My friends are my family. THEY are the ones I go to in weakness and in strenght. The ones I want to celebrate with and cry with. I am not sorry that this is the case. God has blessed me time and time again with AMAZING friends. And I was reminded of this once again while at lunch with one of my nearest and dearest. To hear her say how proud she is of me and that she can see how much I've grown, almost brought me to tears.
I'm really evaluating friendships right now... wondering who's going to grow with me and who's going to grow from me. And in that process I've needed a lot of guidance, prayer, and reassurance. Here's something I found that really helped....
http://www.allaboutgod.com/true-friendship.htm
And last but not least on my mind.. I am in constant need of a reminder of how beautiful I am. I do not mean that in a vain way. What I mean is God created me. Therefore I am beautiful. I am forgetting that lately as I only wear jeans and scrubs and pajamas, do absolutely nothing to my hair or by means of makeup. But it doesn't matter. It DOES NOT matter. For I am beautiful in God's eyes, no matter what I'm wearing or how I've prepared myself for the day. I do not need my friends, a guy's, or strangers' approval.
New love of my life... this song!! It just speaks VOLUMES about how I feel right now. I really want the LORD to use me and I feel like He is. The other day at work, it was 6 in the morning. I had slept 4 hours the day before and now had been up for 14 + hours. Inside all I wanted to do was be home, in my bed. But I knew that I still had my job (and another job to go to) to do. And suddenly I was rejuvenated. I walked into each room on last rounds with a huge smile on my face and enthusiastically greeted each resident. As simple as it sounds, my bright attitude in the morning probably set those people up for a good day. Would YOU want to be woken up by someone who's super grumpy!? No...... So LORD use me.
Another thing on my mind right now... friendships. For those of you who know me well, you know that I don't take my friendships lightly. Reason being, my friends are not just fleeting relationships to me. My friends are my family. THEY are the ones I go to in weakness and in strenght. The ones I want to celebrate with and cry with. I am not sorry that this is the case. God has blessed me time and time again with AMAZING friends. And I was reminded of this once again while at lunch with one of my nearest and dearest. To hear her say how proud she is of me and that she can see how much I've grown, almost brought me to tears.
I'm really evaluating friendships right now... wondering who's going to grow with me and who's going to grow from me. And in that process I've needed a lot of guidance, prayer, and reassurance. Here's something I found that really helped....
http://www.allaboutgod.com/true-friendship.htm
And last but not least on my mind.. I am in constant need of a reminder of how beautiful I am. I do not mean that in a vain way. What I mean is God created me. Therefore I am beautiful. I am forgetting that lately as I only wear jeans and scrubs and pajamas, do absolutely nothing to my hair or by means of makeup. But it doesn't matter. It DOES NOT matter. For I am beautiful in God's eyes, no matter what I'm wearing or how I've prepared myself for the day. I do not need my friends, a guy's, or strangers' approval.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
While others lament over the absence of a spouse, I praise God for my singleness. Uninhibited by fleeting relationships, I can ferverently pursue God and His Will without obstacle or consequence. This independent quest for God has deepened my knowledge and exponentially multiplied the love I have for Him and myself. In place of a romantic relationship, God has provided an abundance of brothers and sisters who hold me accountable, challenge my mind, body, and soul, and love me unconditionally. I delve into each relationship with every ounce of myself., committing my time, energy, and love to each one equally. Though often exhausting, I wouldn't trade the time, the laughs, even the drama for anything in this world. Each of these people has been lovingly placed in my life by God to play a role whether for a day, a season, or a lifetime. Admittedly I long to be swept off my feet by Prince Charming, but I find myself too preoccupied with loving my Heavenly Father and living life to the fullest to be concerned with my bare left ring finger.
My single life in 200 words. TAKE THAT Western Seminary :) Now 200 words on my spiritual life, 200 words on my family, and 200 words on my goals and passions. Ey yi yi!!
My single life in 200 words. TAKE THAT Western Seminary :) Now 200 words on my spiritual life, 200 words on my family, and 200 words on my goals and passions. Ey yi yi!!
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
I am a Third Shift Worker....
I am a Third Shift Worker...
I eat breakfast at 8pm. Take lunch at 4am. Eat dinner at 8am.
I never see 4pm.
During the winter months in Michigan, I will not see the sun.
I rarely see a traffic jam on the road... ok let's face it, I barely see other cars. Driving with cars is now scary :)
I get to hear sketchy talk radio at 3am.
I can talk to my friends in foreign countries easily because no matter the time difference, we're awake at the same time.
Good times :)
PS.... when I am awake haha... everyone should come visit me at my new apartment :)
I eat breakfast at 8pm. Take lunch at 4am. Eat dinner at 8am.
I never see 4pm.
During the winter months in Michigan, I will not see the sun.
I rarely see a traffic jam on the road... ok let's face it, I barely see other cars. Driving with cars is now scary :)
I get to hear sketchy talk radio at 3am.
I can talk to my friends in foreign countries easily because no matter the time difference, we're awake at the same time.
Good times :)
PS.... when I am awake haha... everyone should come visit me at my new apartment :)
Amazing...
I wanted to take a few seconds. A few seconds out of my life to reflect on amazing people. Sounds silly huh? Perhaps it is, but in the process of moving, transitioning into adulthood, and just living life, I have encountered, befriended, fell in love with, some pretty AMAZING people. I could list their names here, make sure they get the proper recognition, but a part of what makes them so great is that you don't want that. Your acts of love and service so often go unnoticed and that's exactly how they want it.
I strive to live my life like them. I strive to return their love and kindness. Strive as I might, there is no way to repay them for everything they've done for me. I am not used to having people like this in my life. Don't get me wrong....when I lived in Iowa, I encountered nice people. I had/have friends from back there. But when it came to me leaving, there were only a handful of people who stood out above the rest. However, after being in Holland for 3 years, I am overwhelmed by the amount of amazingly amazing, stellar people I have in my life. It honestly brings me to tears as I reflect on the joy these people have brought to my life. Whether it was helping me move, coming to visit me after a bad day, taking an hour out of their day just to talk to me, writing a recommendation for me even though I know their list of things to do is absolutely ginormous! Whatever the task, they've done it, with a smile on their face and for that I shall be eternally grateful.
So I guess what I'm trying to say is 1) People in Michigan... are great! 2) I appreciate and love each and everyone of you so much 3) I need to figure out a way to repay all of the generosity of greatness I've encountered and 4) God has blessed me far more than I deserve.
I strive to live my life like them. I strive to return their love and kindness. Strive as I might, there is no way to repay them for everything they've done for me. I am not used to having people like this in my life. Don't get me wrong....when I lived in Iowa, I encountered nice people. I had/have friends from back there. But when it came to me leaving, there were only a handful of people who stood out above the rest. However, after being in Holland for 3 years, I am overwhelmed by the amount of amazingly amazing, stellar people I have in my life. It honestly brings me to tears as I reflect on the joy these people have brought to my life. Whether it was helping me move, coming to visit me after a bad day, taking an hour out of their day just to talk to me, writing a recommendation for me even though I know their list of things to do is absolutely ginormous! Whatever the task, they've done it, with a smile on their face and for that I shall be eternally grateful.
So I guess what I'm trying to say is 1) People in Michigan... are great! 2) I appreciate and love each and everyone of you so much 3) I need to figure out a way to repay all of the generosity of greatness I've encountered and 4) God has blessed me far more than I deserve.
Obsession with Song Lyrics
I wanna set the world on fire Until it’s burning bright for You It’s everything that I desire Can I be the one You use?I, I am small but You, You are big enough I, I am weak but You, You are strong enough to Take my dreamsCome and give them wings Lord with You There’s nothing I can not do Nothing I cannot do I wanna feed the hungry children And reach across the farthest landAnd tell the broken there is healing And mercy in the Father’s hands My hands my feetMy everything My life, my love Lord, use me I wanna set the world on fireI wanna set the world on fire, yeahI’m gonna set the world on fire Set the world on fire.
- Britt Nicole
Obsessed with song lyrics... perhaps. And this exactly why I should be on the show "Singing Bee" well.. minus the fact that I doubt they really sing Christian music on that show. :)
- Britt Nicole
Obsessed with song lyrics... perhaps. And this exactly why I should be on the show "Singing Bee" well.. minus the fact that I doubt they really sing Christian music on that show. :)
Sunday, October 28, 2007
I heard this song while at a concert with a very dear friend of mine and fell in love with it immediately. I know that I live my life, all too often concerned about how others portray me, or being cautious and making sure I don't make any mistakes or do anything wrong. Life isn't about that. Life is about taking risks, doing things you never thought you would, using what you have and using it to the fullest and above all loving what you have, loving where you are in life, loving yourself, and above all loving others.
How You Live
Point of Grace
Wake up to the sunlight with your windows open
Don’t hold in your anger or leave things unspoken
Wear your red dress, use your good dishes
Make a big mess and make lots of wishes
Have what you want, but want what you have
And don’t spend your life looking back
Turn up the music, turn it up loudT
ake a few chances, let it all out
Cause you won’t regret it Looking back from where you have been
Cause it’s not who you knew
And it’s not what you didIt’s how you lived
So go to the ballgames and go to the ballet
Go see your folks more than just on the holidays
Kiss all your children, dance with your wife
Tell your husband you love him every night
Don’t run from the truth cause you can’t get away
Just face it you’ll be okayTurn up the music, turn it up loud
Take a few chances, let it all out
Cause you won’t regret it
Looking back from where you have been
Cause it’s not who you knew A
nd it’s not what you didIt’s how you lived
Ooh, wherever you are and wherever you’ve been
Now is the time to begin
So give to the needy, pray for the grieving
Even when you don’t think that you can
Cause all that you do is bound to come back to you
So think of your fellow man
And make peace with God and make peace with yourself
Cause in the end there’s nobody else
Turn up the music, turn it up loud
Take a few chances, let it all out
Cause you won’t regret it
Looking back from where you have been
Cause it’s not who you knew
And it’s not what you didIt’s how you lived
Cause it’s not who you knew
And it’s not what you did
It’s how you lived
How You Live
Point of Grace
Wake up to the sunlight with your windows open
Don’t hold in your anger or leave things unspoken
Wear your red dress, use your good dishes
Make a big mess and make lots of wishes
Have what you want, but want what you have
And don’t spend your life looking back
Turn up the music, turn it up loudT
ake a few chances, let it all out
Cause you won’t regret it Looking back from where you have been
Cause it’s not who you knew
And it’s not what you didIt’s how you lived
So go to the ballgames and go to the ballet
Go see your folks more than just on the holidays
Kiss all your children, dance with your wife
Tell your husband you love him every night
Don’t run from the truth cause you can’t get away
Just face it you’ll be okayTurn up the music, turn it up loud
Take a few chances, let it all out
Cause you won’t regret it
Looking back from where you have been
Cause it’s not who you knew A
nd it’s not what you didIt’s how you lived
Ooh, wherever you are and wherever you’ve been
Now is the time to begin
So give to the needy, pray for the grieving
Even when you don’t think that you can
Cause all that you do is bound to come back to you
So think of your fellow man
And make peace with God and make peace with yourself
Cause in the end there’s nobody else
Turn up the music, turn it up loud
Take a few chances, let it all out
Cause you won’t regret it
Looking back from where you have been
Cause it’s not who you knew
And it’s not what you didIt’s how you lived
Cause it’s not who you knew
And it’s not what you did
It’s how you lived
Friday, October 26, 2007
A Day in My Life
Soooo... it's been awhile since I posted again. Chalk it up to a 60 hour work week, applying to graduate schools, and moving! That's right, I'm going to have my very own apartment :)
Anywho... in the experience of these past few weeks, I've noticed something. Everyone is very pessimistic or perhaps they don't believe me. The phrase I've heard most often in these past two weeks is "You're crazy!" And perhaps I am. But to make you see why I do what I do, I'm going to take you through a day in the life of me :) And explain why it is I'm doing what I'm doing, so maybe I will NEVER hear that phrase again, but rather have more understanding and support for my cause.
Where to start.... let's start at 7pm. I wake up for my "day" around 7pm every night after getting about 6 hours of sleep. From 7pm to 10:30, I catch up on emails, have "breakfast", catch up with people on the phone, clean, shower, do laundry, do some shopping, etc. etc. Then around 10:30 I head off to work at the nursing home for my 8 hour shift. Third shift is the easiest shift, but I still work hard, and often don't get a chance for a break. When the nights are slow, however, I work on graduate school applications, catch up on a little Suduko action, read a book, or spend time getting to know my co-workers.
When I get off from Resthaven, I have an hour to shower, change, run a quick errand, or do something for myself. Then at 8am, I head off to Toddlerville where I chase kids for 4 hours. This includes feedings, napping, and playing outside.
Then at noon, I head home and sleep. This often repeats, but does not happen every day. I DO have nights off which are definitely needed and cherished.
Yes... it is crazy working 12 hour days, 60 hour weeks. Have I made sacrifices??? Of course I have! I've sacrificed sleep, I've sacrificed a lot of my free time, and I've even made huge sacrifices in my social life and especially in my friendships and relationships with others. But do I regret this decision? NEVER!
When I'm at the nursing home, I'm helping people who are there for the rest of their lives. The best thing in their day is your nurses assistant coming in to get them ready for the day. Can you imagine a life like that?? A day filled with constant routine, constant noise, no privacy?? At a nursing home you lose yourself and cling to only memories of who you used to be and desires of who you wish you were. Me being there for 8 hours... I cannot complain, because when 7am hits, I get to go home.
Working with my co-workers I get to learn a lot about society. I can't tell you what a research project it is has been talking to my co-workers. Some of these people work full-time, have several children, and are going to school. They basically have two full time jobs and a part time job. Again, who am I to complain? When I go home, I have no one to care for but myself. I get to work at my own schedule, sleep when I want to. I am so blessed and grateful to God for prolonging my singleness.
Working at the daycare, again, learning so much about society. Seeing the families these children come from, learning about behaviors, getting to know those children as if they were my own. For some, again, this is the most loving environment they will have and they're only there 8 hours a day. When they get home, you have no idea what they're going home to. You can only imagine the conditions and pray that they will be taken care of and safe. If I can provide one smile, one nutritious meal, one hour of fun, then I will because I am able.
So as you can see, I have the most rewarding life I ever could imagine. I get to help 90+ people every day of my life. Most, if not all of what I do, will go unnoticed, yes, but I still do it and with a smile on my face the entire time. No matter how exhausted I am, how long it's been since I've seen a friend, or no matter when I get a break next, I am blessed beyond measure to have the opportunities I have and the ability to do what I do. At any moment anything I have can be taken away from me. So I will continue to praise God daily for my life, for His blessings, and for bringing me to this place in my life.
My wish is that everyone would support me in this endeavour instead of constantly telling me I'm crazy, giving me looks of confusion and pity, and stop questioning my motives. For the next nine months of my life, this is it. And I will continue to maintain as full of a life as I can in the process.
Anywho... in the experience of these past few weeks, I've noticed something. Everyone is very pessimistic or perhaps they don't believe me. The phrase I've heard most often in these past two weeks is "You're crazy!" And perhaps I am. But to make you see why I do what I do, I'm going to take you through a day in the life of me :) And explain why it is I'm doing what I'm doing, so maybe I will NEVER hear that phrase again, but rather have more understanding and support for my cause.
Where to start.... let's start at 7pm. I wake up for my "day" around 7pm every night after getting about 6 hours of sleep. From 7pm to 10:30, I catch up on emails, have "breakfast", catch up with people on the phone, clean, shower, do laundry, do some shopping, etc. etc. Then around 10:30 I head off to work at the nursing home for my 8 hour shift. Third shift is the easiest shift, but I still work hard, and often don't get a chance for a break. When the nights are slow, however, I work on graduate school applications, catch up on a little Suduko action, read a book, or spend time getting to know my co-workers.
When I get off from Resthaven, I have an hour to shower, change, run a quick errand, or do something for myself. Then at 8am, I head off to Toddlerville where I chase kids for 4 hours. This includes feedings, napping, and playing outside.
Then at noon, I head home and sleep. This often repeats, but does not happen every day. I DO have nights off which are definitely needed and cherished.
Yes... it is crazy working 12 hour days, 60 hour weeks. Have I made sacrifices??? Of course I have! I've sacrificed sleep, I've sacrificed a lot of my free time, and I've even made huge sacrifices in my social life and especially in my friendships and relationships with others. But do I regret this decision? NEVER!
When I'm at the nursing home, I'm helping people who are there for the rest of their lives. The best thing in their day is your nurses assistant coming in to get them ready for the day. Can you imagine a life like that?? A day filled with constant routine, constant noise, no privacy?? At a nursing home you lose yourself and cling to only memories of who you used to be and desires of who you wish you were. Me being there for 8 hours... I cannot complain, because when 7am hits, I get to go home.
Working with my co-workers I get to learn a lot about society. I can't tell you what a research project it is has been talking to my co-workers. Some of these people work full-time, have several children, and are going to school. They basically have two full time jobs and a part time job. Again, who am I to complain? When I go home, I have no one to care for but myself. I get to work at my own schedule, sleep when I want to. I am so blessed and grateful to God for prolonging my singleness.
Working at the daycare, again, learning so much about society. Seeing the families these children come from, learning about behaviors, getting to know those children as if they were my own. For some, again, this is the most loving environment they will have and they're only there 8 hours a day. When they get home, you have no idea what they're going home to. You can only imagine the conditions and pray that they will be taken care of and safe. If I can provide one smile, one nutritious meal, one hour of fun, then I will because I am able.
So as you can see, I have the most rewarding life I ever could imagine. I get to help 90+ people every day of my life. Most, if not all of what I do, will go unnoticed, yes, but I still do it and with a smile on my face the entire time. No matter how exhausted I am, how long it's been since I've seen a friend, or no matter when I get a break next, I am blessed beyond measure to have the opportunities I have and the ability to do what I do. At any moment anything I have can be taken away from me. So I will continue to praise God daily for my life, for His blessings, and for bringing me to this place in my life.
My wish is that everyone would support me in this endeavour instead of constantly telling me I'm crazy, giving me looks of confusion and pity, and stop questioning my motives. For the next nine months of my life, this is it. And I will continue to maintain as full of a life as I can in the process.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Michael Buble - Everything lyrics
You're a falling star, You're the get away car.You're the line in the sand when I go too far.You're the swimming pool, on an August day.And you're the perfect thing to say.And you play it coy, but it's kinda cute.Ah, When you smile at me you know exactly what you do.Baby don't pretend, that you don't know it's true.Cause you can see it when I look at you.[Chorus:]And in this crazy life, and through these crazy timesIt's you, it's you, You make me sing.You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.You're a carousel, you're a wishing well,And you light me up, when you ring my bell.You're a mystery, you're from outer space,You're every minute of my everyday.And I can't believe, uh that I'm your man,And I get to kiss you baby just because I can.Whatever comes our way, ah we'll see it through,And you know that's what our love can do.
I want a guy to sing this song to me :)
You're a falling star, You're the get away car.You're the line in the sand when I go too far.You're the swimming pool, on an August day.And you're the perfect thing to say.And you play it coy, but it's kinda cute.Ah, When you smile at me you know exactly what you do.Baby don't pretend, that you don't know it's true.Cause you can see it when I look at you.[Chorus:]And in this crazy life, and through these crazy timesIt's you, it's you, You make me sing.You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.You're a carousel, you're a wishing well,And you light me up, when you ring my bell.You're a mystery, you're from outer space,You're every minute of my everyday.And I can't believe, uh that I'm your man,And I get to kiss you baby just because I can.Whatever comes our way, ah we'll see it through,And you know that's what our love can do.
I want a guy to sing this song to me :)
Thursday, October 18, 2007
"Only as high as I reach can I grow, only as far as I seek can I go, only as deep as I look can I see, only as much as I dream can I be."
- Karen Rayes
To laugh often and love much; to win the respect of intelligent persons and the affection of children, to earn the approbation of honest critics; to appreciate beauty; to give of one's self, to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm and sung with exultation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived--that is to have succeeded.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
- Karen Rayes
To laugh often and love much; to win the respect of intelligent persons and the affection of children, to earn the approbation of honest critics; to appreciate beauty; to give of one's self, to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm and sung with exultation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived--that is to have succeeded.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Today I choose
After my absolutely insane week, I needed to be reminded that I have choices. So as I wake up for work, even on the days I really don't want to go, I'm going to choose. I'm going to choose to live by the fruits of the spirit.
I read this again yesterday and I pray that I can live by this every day...especially on the days when getting out of bed is so hard.
Each Day I Choose - By Max Lucado
It's quiet. It's early. My coffee is hot. The sky is still black. The world is still asleep. The day is coming.
In a few moments, the day will arrive. It will roar down the track with the rising of the sun. The stillness of the dawn will be exchanged for the noise of the day. The calm of solitude will be replaced by the pounding of the human race. The refuge of the early morning will be invaded by decisions to be made and deadlines to be met.
For the next twelve hours I will be exposed to the day's demands. It is now I must make a choice. Because of Calvary, I'm free to choose. And so I choose.
I CHOOSE LOVE…
No occasion justifies hatred;no injustice warrants bitterness. I choose love.Today I will love God and what God loves.
I CHOOSE JOY…
I will invite my God to be the God of circumstance.I will refuse the temptation to be cynical…the tool of the lazy thinker. I will refuse to see people as anything less than human beings,created by God. I will refuse to see any problem asanything less than an opportunity to see God.
I CHOOSE PEACE…
I will live forgiven. I will forgive so that I may live.
I CHOOSE PATIENCE…
I will overlook the inconveniences of the world. Instead of cursing the one who takes my place, I'llinvite him to do so. Rather than complain that the wait is too long, I will thank God for a momentto pray. Instead of clenching my fist at new assignments, I will face them with joy and courage.
I CHOOSE KINDNESS…
I will be kind to the poor, for they are alone.I will be kind to the rich, for they are afraid. And kind tothe unkind, for such is how God has treated me.
I CHOOSE GOODNESS…
I will go without a dollarbefore I take a dishonest one. I will be overlookedbefore I will boast. I will confess before I willaccuse. I choose goodness.
I CHOOSE FAITHFULNESS…
Today I will keep my promises.My debtors will not regret their trust. My associateswill not question my word. My wife will notquestion my love. And my children will never fearthat their father will not come home.
I CHOOSE GENTLENESS…
Nothing is won by force. I choose to be gentle. If I raise my voice, may it be only in praise.If I clench my fist, may it only be in prayer.If I make a demand, may it only be of myself.
I am a spiritual being…After this body is dead, my spirit will soar.I refuse to let what will rot rule the eternal.I choose self-control. I will be drunk only by joy.I will be impassioned only by my faith.I will be influenced only by God.I will be taught only by Christ.I choose self-control.
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness,faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.To these I commit my day.If I succeed, I will give thanks.If I fail, I will seek His grace.And then, when this day is done,I will place my head on my pillowand rest.
I read this again yesterday and I pray that I can live by this every day...especially on the days when getting out of bed is so hard.
Each Day I Choose - By Max Lucado
It's quiet. It's early. My coffee is hot. The sky is still black. The world is still asleep. The day is coming.
In a few moments, the day will arrive. It will roar down the track with the rising of the sun. The stillness of the dawn will be exchanged for the noise of the day. The calm of solitude will be replaced by the pounding of the human race. The refuge of the early morning will be invaded by decisions to be made and deadlines to be met.
For the next twelve hours I will be exposed to the day's demands. It is now I must make a choice. Because of Calvary, I'm free to choose. And so I choose.
I CHOOSE LOVE…
No occasion justifies hatred;no injustice warrants bitterness. I choose love.Today I will love God and what God loves.
I CHOOSE JOY…
I will invite my God to be the God of circumstance.I will refuse the temptation to be cynical…the tool of the lazy thinker. I will refuse to see people as anything less than human beings,created by God. I will refuse to see any problem asanything less than an opportunity to see God.
I CHOOSE PEACE…
I will live forgiven. I will forgive so that I may live.
I CHOOSE PATIENCE…
I will overlook the inconveniences of the world. Instead of cursing the one who takes my place, I'llinvite him to do so. Rather than complain that the wait is too long, I will thank God for a momentto pray. Instead of clenching my fist at new assignments, I will face them with joy and courage.
I CHOOSE KINDNESS…
I will be kind to the poor, for they are alone.I will be kind to the rich, for they are afraid. And kind tothe unkind, for such is how God has treated me.
I CHOOSE GOODNESS…
I will go without a dollarbefore I take a dishonest one. I will be overlookedbefore I will boast. I will confess before I willaccuse. I choose goodness.
I CHOOSE FAITHFULNESS…
Today I will keep my promises.My debtors will not regret their trust. My associateswill not question my word. My wife will notquestion my love. And my children will never fearthat their father will not come home.
I CHOOSE GENTLENESS…
Nothing is won by force. I choose to be gentle. If I raise my voice, may it be only in praise.If I clench my fist, may it only be in prayer.If I make a demand, may it only be of myself.
I am a spiritual being…After this body is dead, my spirit will soar.I refuse to let what will rot rule the eternal.I choose self-control. I will be drunk only by joy.I will be impassioned only by my faith.I will be influenced only by God.I will be taught only by Christ.I choose self-control.
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness,faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.To these I commit my day.If I succeed, I will give thanks.If I fail, I will seek His grace.And then, when this day is done,I will place my head on my pillowand rest.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Welcome to my new website. I decided that I wanted to take a new approach to this whole internet journal thing. I've done the "My life is boring.. please read it about it thing", but decided that I'd rather do something a little more... inspirational as an outlet for myself and hopefully to give a little boost to anyone who needs a little inspiration in your day because life is a beautiful mess. So I plan to post quotes, articles, lyrics, etc. that really touch me and I hope that they can bring you comfort in this crazy world as well.
This song has REALLY touched me lately. I absolutely love Natalie Grant and these lyrics are a great example of why....
"It's hard to stand on shifting sand It's hard to shine in the shadows of the night You can't be free if you don't reach for help You cant love if you dont love yourself There is hope when my faith runs out Cause I'm in better hands now. It's like the sun is shining when the rain is pouring down It's like my soul is flying though my feet are on the ground So take this heart of mine there's no doubt I'm in better hands now I am strong all because of you I stand in awe of every mountain that you move Oh I am changed, yesterday is gone I am safe from this moment on There's no fear when the night comes 'round I'm in better hands now It's like the sun is shining when the rain is pouring down It's like my soul is flying though my feet are on the ground So take this heart of mine there's no doubt I'm in better hands now It's like the sun is shining when the rain is pouring down It's like my soul is flying though my feet are on the ground Its like the world is silent though I know it isnt true Its like the breath of Jesus is right here in this room So take this heart of mine there's no doubt I'm in better hands now I'm in better hands now ."
Absolutely beautiful....
This song has REALLY touched me lately. I absolutely love Natalie Grant and these lyrics are a great example of why....
"It's hard to stand on shifting sand It's hard to shine in the shadows of the night You can't be free if you don't reach for help You cant love if you dont love yourself There is hope when my faith runs out Cause I'm in better hands now. It's like the sun is shining when the rain is pouring down It's like my soul is flying though my feet are on the ground So take this heart of mine there's no doubt I'm in better hands now I am strong all because of you I stand in awe of every mountain that you move Oh I am changed, yesterday is gone I am safe from this moment on There's no fear when the night comes 'round I'm in better hands now It's like the sun is shining when the rain is pouring down It's like my soul is flying though my feet are on the ground So take this heart of mine there's no doubt I'm in better hands now It's like the sun is shining when the rain is pouring down It's like my soul is flying though my feet are on the ground Its like the world is silent though I know it isnt true Its like the breath of Jesus is right here in this room So take this heart of mine there's no doubt I'm in better hands now I'm in better hands now ."
Absolutely beautiful....
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