Inspirational – Long walks and dark chocolate

Daily Prompt: Divide

March 2, 2016 1 Comment

After work today, when I clicked on the Daily post and saw that the Prompt was to write a post using the word Divide, I headed outside. I wanted to park myself in my chair and enjoy this already spring-like SW FL weather and meditate on the topic and see what transpired…..

In this season of political uncertainty, amidst the myriad major issues facing not just our beloved United States, but the entire world, can we just stop for a minute?

Can we take a moment to remove our focus from the voices telling us the numerous reasons we should be divided and instead remember all that we have in common? Social media and the news media are ripe with ideas on how to tear each other apart, but who says we have to buy into the hate and the drama?

We are all humans; we have a heart, mind, body and soul, with warm rich blood flowing through our veins. We all have feelings, even though we may express them differently. We were all created in the image of God, our Divine Creator.

Let’s love one another. Who knows what tomorrow will bring?

This may seem a little too maudlin for some, but it’s what’s on my heart. Peace.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. I Corinthians 13:4-8

Filed Under: Inspirational, Uncategorized Tagged With: Daily Prompt, Divide, God, love, political

Just Another Day – Daily Prompt

January 28, 2016 Leave a Comment

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The Daily Prompt was “Just Another Day” -Our days are organized around numerous small actions we repeat over and over. What’s your favorite daily ritual?

I wrote a very similar post in A Perfect Morning last year but since I’m in the mood to write, I thought why not?

My days are very organized and sometimes I think too much so, but then something unplanned comes along and it really does seem to throw my whole day off and I long for my routines. I have tried repeatedly over the years to get over this and be more spontaneous. Although I am definitely better, I’m not cured by any means. I wonder if the lack of spontaneity and love of structure and routine are also a result of growing older and more set in my ways.

My favorite daily rituals take place the first hour of the morning. Many mornings I get up even earlier than necessary to enjoy the solitude before the dawn breaks. When I travel, I miss my mornings at home and my chair where a heating pad is tucked discreetly under a blanket thrown across the back.

At home, nothing changes much in the way my mornings go. I stumble out of bed to the bathroom and after my teeth are brushed I go to the kitchen, make a cup of coffee and go straight to my favorite chair. A few sips of coffee are already warming my innards and I place my cup on a beautiful little coaster given to me by a friend. I usually pray first, then read my bible and then try to just be quiet, and still and listen. Often, God speaks to my heart in these precious moments, or He speaks through His Word and I reflect on what I feel I am to receive as spiritual nourishment for my day. I know from years of experience how much strength and peace this infuses my spirit with. I can also feel the difference on the days I oversleep or something happens and I don’t take that time.

When I’m in my chair, listening to the sounds of all God’s creatures waking up, it seems that much too soon it’s time to start work or go about the rest of my daily business or chores. But, if I’ve started my day out right, I can embrace the day filled with hope and peace.

Filed Under: Inspirational, Uncategorized Tagged With: Bible, Coffee, daybreak, mornings

The Old Green Truck

December 14, 2015 1 Comment

Deer, Big Cypress

My post from yesterday made me begin to ponder pride and I thought about other times that mine has caused me to feel bad or to make others feel bad (or both). This brought to mind an old green truck.

As I have mentioned before my dad was a commercial fisherman and stone crabber for most of my childhood. It was seasonal; there were some times of feast or famine and I even remember once when my stay-at-home mom had to get a part-time job to help out when Dad suffered with a ruptured disc in his back. I think Dad’s pride hurt more than his back did then as mom had never worked, but that’s another story.

This story stars an ugly old green truck with multiple compartments on the sides. I don’t remember where my dad got it or why, but I hated it. It was the ugliest old truck I had ever seen in my life.

Dad worked hard, but on the days he got home early enough, one of his favorite things to do was to load his family up and go for an early evening ride on one of the neighboring dirt roads. My brother and sister lived for this kind of stuff as they got to ride in the back and let their hair whip in the wind. I enjoyed it too, but I didn’t want anyone to know that. I think I was around 12 and maybe hormones played a part; maybe I was just a brat.

We would all pile into the truck with me finagling a way to ride in the front when I could. Many times I got my way since my brother and sister actually wanted to be in the back. Our first stop would be at Mrs. Watson’s general store about a mile (if that) from our house. One of the highlights of stopping here was talking to Mrs. Watson’s mina bird, Sam. The other highlight was the candy.

Dad would get his beverage of choice and we always got to pick our favorite candy. Mom would always tell us we were silly if we got anything other than chocolate (her favorite). My sister would usually get chocolate too, but my brother and I often ended up with wax candy bottles filled with juice, gobstoppers, or Laffy taffy. My sister says we always wanted what she had, but I don’t remember this. I will have to take her word for it. Often, we would all get Astro Pops. Remember those? I learned an interesting fact about them today. They were created by Rocket Scientists working on the space program in El Segundo, CA who decided to quit their jobs at Rocketdyne and create the Astro Pop®, modeling the pop after a three-stage rocket. They were very pointed and had wax around the bottom. We used these to poke each other after we licked the tips until they were even sharper than they came. We had to be very discreet about our pokes.

After talking to whoever we might have encountered there, we were off for our backroads drive. Dad would crank up his country tunes and make me sing along and we would see our share of wild animals and a beautiful sunset. My husband and I take the same drive sometimes and I now understand why it was so relaxing to my parents.

The part of this memory that brings me pain is my hatefulness about the old truck. I remember one time in particular that I really did not want to go on one of these outings; I wanted to be left behind at home. I made up every reason in the world, but my dad finally discerned that I was embarrassed to be seen in the old truck. He was absolutely correct, even though I denied it vehemently. I remember the look on his face when that realization set in that his eldest daughter didn’t want to be discovered in the old green truck by one of her friends. I don’t remember the outcome on that day, but I am 99% sure, knowing my dad, that my high-and-mighty little backside was parked in the back of the truck with the rest of the family.

When I look back, my despicable behavior was rooted in pride; the same pride that caused me not to want to be seen at church in yard shoes. Looking back, of course it was incredibly silly as I know none of my friends would have thought any less of me and probably would have loved to be doing the same thing with their family.

Surely I am not the only one who had these types of struggles and I am thankful that I have learned from them by the help and grace of God. I try to be transparent here in hopes that perhaps something I say may resonate with someone or spur a conscience. It is a great truth that if we can learn from our mistakes, there is potential for growth in our character. The lessons we learn can be considered a gift that keeps on giving.

Filed Under: Family and Home, Inspirational, Uncategorized Tagged With: God, Home, Parenting, pride, selfishness

Enjoy the leftovers

November 29, 2015 3 Comments

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As I looked in despair at the remaining Ziploc bags and plastic containers of left-overs in my refrigerator today, I thought about just throwing them away. Some of it looks like it’s starting to congeal and we are all to the point where if we never see another green bean casserole that would be fine. The economical side of me won out for now….or was it sheer laziness? So, the leftovers will survive another day and tomorrow the ham will probably find itself floating in some kind of bean soup.

I thought about the other things “left over” from the holidays that won’t ever spoil. The memories of hugs that say “I’m not sure when I see you again so I am holding you especially tight” or the ones where a mama hopes her child can feel the love that she is overcome with when she holds them. The laughter shared when Granny comes back with something unexpected when a child is playfully picking on her. The smile and perfectly executed wink unexpectedly returned from a precious grandchild. Yes, there are all of those warm left over memories that we will revisit time after time over the coming weeks.

My eldest and granddaughter left yesterday and I remember the ache that I had to push back down as I told my baby girl, “Don’t be sad. Remember it’s not goodbye; it’s see you later”. I told her that it wouldn’t be long before Nana found a way to see her again, which is true. But in the meantime, I’m thankful for the leftovers.

Filed Under: Family and Home, Inspirational, Uncategorized Tagged With: goodbye, granddaughter, Holidays, love for children, memories

Who is in control?

November 24, 2015 5 Comments

found on picturequotes.com

On a day like today, I want to be able to elaborate on my sentimental thoughts about Thanksgiving and the coming season; I want to watch romantic Christmas movies and bake. My post should surely be all warm and encouraging. I want to be writing things about the cool breeze and the scent of spices and cinnamon in my house, about using my new Kitchen-aid appliance and about the anticipation of family gathered around the table on Thursday.

But the truth is, I just can’t today. My heart is overwhelmed and I’m teetering on the brink of a major downpour of tears. I have two friends going through major surgery, other friends who lost family members this week, and yet others battling cancer. I could go on and on but you get my point and that isn’t even to mention the chaos all around us.

What’s a girl to do? I can sit here and let myself get tossed to and fro and feel my stress level begin to rise. I can succumb to despair and panic or get angry or dismayed. OR, I can lead myself to the Rock that is higher than I.

Always, but especially in times like these, on days like this, God is my Rock and my Fortress, my Strong tower and my Deliver, my Healer and my Sanity, Lover of my soul and a God who is moved with compassion. Where do I put my trust? I place it exclusively in Him because ALL others have failed me at times.

So, I will cast all of my cares upon Him, who can bear it all and trust Him for all outcomes. I will leave my problems at the foot of the cross and not pick them back up again. For I know, in the midst of trials, storms, and seemingly immovable mountains, my God is still in control.

Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, The Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall, but those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:28-31

Filed Under: Christian, Inspirational Tagged With: God, overwhelmed, refuge, Rock, Stress

Enjoying God’s gifts

November 23, 2015 6 Comments

Saturday sunset

I woke up to the realization that perhaps, if the weatherman’s forecast hit the mark, I could finally open the windows and enjoy some late arriving fall weather. When I was firing up my Keurig around 5:45, I decided to take a walk outside and see if it really was cooler. Those of us in SW FL have been hoping for a little cool down and we’ve just been getting let down. Well I guess I should say some are hoping for a cool down. Personally, I would love a snow miracle, or at least a good freeze to kill off all of the bugs. Walking around in the dark, the stars were still brilliant. They were set against a dark canvas, seemingly within arm’s reach.

I had to stand there for a few moments, in awe once again of the beauty of God’s creation. In the midst of turmoil and chaos, those stars still shine, the sun will still rise and it will still set. I reflected on my thankfulness for the un-changing things. The things that remain predictable, even in times of great uncertainty.

I love to recognize and reflect upon the gifts God gave us that we sometimes take for granted. There are those gifts that are obscured from our vision if we fail to take the time to really look. We take so much for granted because we don’t take the time to slow down and let things sink in. We tend to rush through things and only let our minds light on a topic for a moment, before we flutter away in our impatient quest to find another one.

If I may give thanks this morning for the firm realization that I must be alone sometimes, I must take time to tarry, that it is more than okay if I slow down and bask in the sunlight of moments and memories. In recent years, this realization has afforded me much happiness.

Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content
Philippians 4:11

Filed Under: Inspirational, Uncategorized Tagged With: beauty of creation, god's gifts, reflections, slow-down

To Paris with love

November 14, 2015 3 Comments

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As I sit here in the cool breeze, with clear blue skies, and birds flying overhead you would think I am the picture of tranquility. Deep inside, in my spirit-woman, I am. I have that profound sense of peace that passes all understanding. I know I live in a fallen world and I believe that God is still sovereign, in the midst of chaos and tragedy.

However, my emotions are another story. I mourn for the victims of yet another senseless massacre. I think of the multitude of family members who are finding out today that the people they love won’t be coming home. The husbands, wives, children, parents and other loved ones who will get a phone call or a visit that will change their lives forever. The numbers of the fatalities keep changing; 100, 120, 148 and although high; the victims are considerably higher. They will all be in my prayers today.

Let us also remember the others, numbering in the thousands by now, who have lost their lives due to acts of terrorism. Many countries have been affected and as we focus our prayers and thoughts on France today, let us not fail to pray for the World and for our governing authorities to have wisdom in dealing with this situation. We need strong leaders who listen to God for instruction.

In the times we are living in, it’s more imperative than ever that we all remember that tomorrow is never promised. Do whatever God has called you to do, today. Forgive that person, send those flowers, show that love, pick up that phone now; don’t delay. Do not live in fear, but make the most of every moment.

Obviously, I am a Christ follower and I would encourage you to glean your strength from Him; the only Omnipotent, Omnipresent strength I’ve ever known.

Praying for Paris ❤

Father God, I pray for strength, wisdom and comfort for all of those touched by this senseless tragedy

Let them feel Your Divine love and that peace that only You can give

Touch each and every loved one as their hearts are broken today

and touch every worker at every scene and give them the strength they need to continue their work.

Give the leaders in Paris and those around the world the insight and wisdom needed to handle this catastrophe

Help us to love in word and in deed as we mourn with those who mourn

In Jesus’ name, amen

Filed Under: Inspirational Tagged With: France, God, Paris, prayers

Binding up wounds

September 5, 2015 2 Comments

Grace; new every morning!

Last night, I found myself praying for a particular situation and God showed me something about it that I wanted to share. Why? Because I believe there are others who need to hear it and might find it beneficial to think upon.

A wound, as defined by google is an injury to living tissue caused by a cut, blow, or other impact, typically one in which the skin is cut or broken.

When you inflict a wound on someone you love, if you really love that person you are going to want to apply some tender loving care. You will long for their forgiveness; you will carefully cleanse it, apply some healing ointment or balm and wrap it up to shelter it from the elements. You will then be careful not to bump into it, or do anything to hinder the healing process.

Let’s switch our minds to emotional wounds. I know I’ve inflicted some of those before too. I have found the following to be true. If I handle this type of wound the same way, it may still leave a scar, the size depending on the wound, but it eventually heals. So, if I cleanse it with apologies and forgiveness, removing any infection of bitterness, then I apply love and healing, edifying words and then be very careful with that wound, it will heal a lot faster and leave a smaller scar.

However, if I keep picking at it, pour salt in it and keep ripping over the covering that protects it from the elements, it remains raw and festering. This wound isn’t getting time to heal in a calm, loving, drama-free environment. The result can be infection and even eventually, loss.

If we wound people, or they wound us, let’s be mindful of these principles as best as we are able. If we do, we can make great strides in areas of healing.

Blessings!

The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.

Proverbs 18:28

Filed Under: Inspirational Tagged With: emotional wounds, forgiveness, scars

Sunday morning Word – Celebrate with praise

June 28, 2015 2 Comments

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In response to The Daily Post’s writing prompt: “Celebrate Good Times.”

You receive some wonderful, improbable, hoped-for good news. How do you celebrate?

There are a few things that would fall in this category that I am currently praying and believing for. When I get the good news, the first thing I will do is praise God for His abundant mercy and grace and for hearing and answering my prayer.

Secondly, I will share the news with family and friends who have been praying with me. They have been with me through the thick and thin of things and will share the joy with me, as they have also shared the pain.

Me being a quiet, not too excitable person, there won’t be a loud, noisy celebration. No cakes, or banners or trips to the mall to treat myself. The things I am praying for have been watered with many tears and I’m looking forward to exchanging the bitter ones for tears of joy.

In all states of dilemma or of difficulty, prayer is an available source. The ship of prayer may sail through all temptations, doubts and fears, straight up to the throne of God; and though she may be outward bound with only griefs, and groans, and sighs, she shall return freighted with a wealth of blessings!

Charles Spurgeon

Filed Under: Inspirational Tagged With: grace, mercy, praise, Prayer

A perfect morning

June 26, 2015 2 Comments

In response to The Daily Post’s writing prompt: “The Golden Hour.”

The prompt asked, “6:00 AM: the best hour of the day, or too close to your 3:00 AM bedtime?”

My alarm goes off at 5:30 am on the mornings that I haven’t already turned it off and began my day. Sometimes I grumble to myself as I stumble into the bathroom to begin my morning routine. My last stop in on the way to the kitchen or should I say on the way to my Keurig, is at my scale, which is something I’ve done for so many years, it’s a more of a habit than anything. It’s reading doesn’t make any difference in my mood; it just lets me know if I should lighten things up.

Coffee done, in goes the sugar and half and half; some things I just will not give up! Holding one of the lovely cups given to me by friends who know my love of coffee and tea, I make my way to my favorite spot. Before I sit, I open the blinds where I can watch God display the colors of a morning sunrise. The birds are waking too and sing to their Creator with unabashed fervor.

After sufficient sips of hot java, and enough blinking where my eyes begin to see clearly, on go my cheaters and my bible is opened and on my lap. Feet up and feeling so peaceful, I began to receive my daily spiritual nourishment. After prayer and meditation on the Word, my day can continue with me feeling strengthened and ready to take on anything.

At some point in my morning, usually a bit later, my husband wakes up and comes to find me to give me a morning hug and kiss. This happens every morning without fail unless one of us is travelling and it is one of the highlights of my day. I smile when I hear him walking toward me, thankful that this is still our reality after 21 years as husband and wife.

I have described the perfect morning at my house. It varies from time to time, but if any of this is missing, the day seems to sputter and I falter and things just don’t go as smooth. Yes, for me, the perfect morning is described above.