~Facts of Life~

Now that my daily routine has changed, it appears that I have more time to sit, think and reflect! That being said, I believe that one of the greatest gifts given to us by God other than Jesus, is life. Another great gift given to us is the ability to learn.

As long as we live, we will be forever learning. Learning is a process by which grow. However in learning we are presented with the good and bad. Sometimes I wonder why is it that bad habits stick to us faster than good habits, but it does.

The simple true fact of life is that we become like those with whom we closely associate with ... be it bad or good. This also includes family. Remember, they may be family members, but family members may be associating with people whose life-style maybe in question and they can take on ways that are good and bad too. So, be careful of the persons you associate with, including family.

Moving forward, the first things we learn are the hardest to forget. Traditions pass from one generation to the next. If these traditions are good, then we want to maintain them; if they are bad, then we need to change them. I believe that each of us are equip to do great things in our lives. No matter what state you're in.

Fact of the matter is, know your strengths because sometimes people think that they know you. But in fact they may know a few facts about you, and they piece you together in a way that makes sense to them. And, if you don't know yourself very well, you might even believe they are right. But, the truth is that's not you. Not you at all. Everyone don't have the right to speak into your life, so don't let them.

Remember this, when you are prospering your friends know you, but when you fall on bad times, you will truly know your friends!

We all have moments when we surprise our own expectations; Sometimes these moments are larger than life itself. I truly believe there is something great in all of us. This is why we hit back and refuse to give up. I believe each of us in our own way are heroes. But some of us can't see the forest for the trees.

~These are my thoughts ... I welcome yours~

~ The Truth!

         ~Truth Sometimes is Locked up and Silent~

There have been times I have said things based on emotions and not intellect that I sincerely regret, even to this day.  But I don't regret the things I said nearly as much as the words I left unspoken.

Sometimes it's better not to verbalize, and deep down you hope it's understood. Also, words that comes from the heart don't always need to be spoken. Just learn to be quiet and  know when to speak with your eyes.

I'm learning to control words that I speak and I love speaking with my eyes or in silence. The eyes can also tell a story and answer questions without words leaving your lips. The old cliche' states: Silence is golden. And I say (sometimes).

I've come to understand that words are very powerful and they gain power when they are spoken.

So, whenever its time to speak, use flawless words, speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Try to cease from using words that speak negatively about yourself or someone else. Use the power of words in the direction of truth and love.

Find the courage to ask questions concerning things you do not understand, and express yourself clearly of what you do understand, truly want and desire.

Be the best you, understanding that your best will change from moment to moment. But ensure that you do your best to be understood, etc. Avoid criticizing yourself and regretting what you've done in the past.

Sometimes what I write  may not always make sense. But, I write any way from my heart. I hope this makes sense to you.

~These are my thoughts ... I welcome yours~

~Trying to Impress~

       


              ~Notice the tree standing alone~


Most of us spend a great portion of our lives trying to impress others. The way we look, dress, speak, work, walk, etc. We spend more time looking to please, than to be pleased just being who we are. We attempt to change our personality, to be accepted. Instead, you should just be the best you, that you can be, regardless of anyone else's perception of you.

Whenever anyone try to be perfect, behind the effort lies a desperate need to be accepted. It is this same need that often drives us to take on more than we should. In trying to be perfect we work on the quality of our activities, crafts, jobs, positions, etc: Silent questions to ourselves are: Was that good enough? Did I impress them with how well I did that? Will they acknowledge my potential and my worth? Did they like the way I looked in that dress or suit?

In taking on too much, we stress ourselves and the quality of what we do. Another question, Did I do enough? We should never stress ourselves to please another. You excel by embracing who you are and acknowledging your true potential in being the best you.

In closing and please hear this: Some people are judged instantly by their clothes, their cars, their appearance, their race, their education, their social status. The list goes on and on. What sometimes frustrates me personally is that most people decide who another person is even before they speak to them. What's even worse, these same people decide who and what the status of someone else is, and don't even know who they are themselves.

We must cease forming opinions of someone before we get to know them and we must cease to live our lives based on others opinions/perceptions of us. Again, just be the best person that God has preordain  us (you) to be; Whether anyone approves or not. And, viewing the picture above, this also means, sometimes you must stand alone!

*Dare To Be Different*
~Have the courage~

Remember, if you cease to be you, then who's going to be you?

~These are my thoughts ... I welcome yours~

~From The Heart~

In life, I truly believe, at least once, you will find that special someone, who can completely turn your life and world around. You are able to tell them things that you’ve never shared with another soul and they absorb everything you say and actually want to hear more.

You share hopes for the future, dreams that may or may not ever come true, goals that were accomplished and goals that were never achieved,  and the many disappointments life has thrown at you. When something wonderful happens, you can’t wait to tell them about it, knowing they will share in your excitement.

They are not embarrassed to cry with you when you are hurting or laugh with you when you make a fool of yourself. Never do they hurt your feelings or make you feel like you aren't good enough, but rather they build you up and show you things about yourself that make you special and help you to see what a beautiful person you truly are.

There is never any pressure, jealousy or competition but only a quiet calmness when they are around. You can be yourself and not worry about what they will think of you, because they love you for who you are. The things that seem insignificant to most people such as a note, song or walk, become invaluable treasures and a  keep safe in your heart to cherish forever.

Memories of your childhood come back and are so clear and vivid. It’s like being young again. Colors seem brighter and more brilliant. Laughter and excitement seems part of daily life, where before it was infrequent or didn’t exist at all. That person can even make you laugh at yourself, when in the past you couldn't.

A phone call or two during the day helps to get you through a long day’s work and always brings a smile to your face. In their presence, there’s no need for continuous conversation, but you find you’re quite content in just having them nearby. Things that never interested you before become fascinating because you know they are important to this person who is so special to you.

You think of this person on every occasion and in everything you do. Simple things bring them to mind like the color of a day,  a movie, a familiar image, a painting, gentle wind or even a storm cloud on the horizon. You open your heart knowing that there’s a chance it may be broken one day and in opening your heart, you experience a love and joy that you never dreamed possible.

You find that being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure that’s so real it scares you. You find strength in knowing you have a true friend and possibly a soul mate that will remain loyal to the end. Life seems completely different, exciting and worthwhile. Your only hope and security is in knowing that they are a part of your life.

And, even if they don't remain, be thankful that you had the opportunity just to know them  

~These are my thoughts ... I welcome yours~

                             

~Deception~

We often say that the world if full of deceptions, and it truly is. But, so are we. The problem is, we don't see how deceived we are and how we deceive ourselves. Life shouldn't be as complicated as we make it. We stress ourselves out over foolish things that we think are vital to our survival. When, if we could stop, get quiet within, and think for a moment on what is truly important in life; I believe we would have lest diseases, sicknesses,  frustrations, angers, selfishness, criticisms, anxieties and stresses.

You see, most of our thought processes are kind of selfish. Don't get me wrong; strive to do your best, always. But know this, when God has something in store for you, it is not accompanied by anxiety or stress. Why? Because every good and perfect gift that God gives, comes from Him. And, it is acquired in peace, calmness and filled with joy!

Yes, we seek to obtain all that the world has. A reputation. Firstly we want others to know who we are. Secondly, a high position. Because we want power and money. Thirdly, relationships. But when relationships are obtained independently of God, it can lead you into ruin. Fourthly, wealth and so forth. Again, wealth obtain without wisdom can lead anyone into doom. It can give you a false sense of power and can lead to undesirable problems. The heart wants what it wants and in some instances, it will do whatever it can to obtain it's desires.

Deception: Beguilement, deceit, bluff, mystification and subterfuge are acts to propagate beliefs of things that are not true, or not the whole truth (as in half truth).

Listen, you may or may not believe this statement, but  without God the heart does not know how to avoid deception, manipulation, or the art of control; although it can produce all the words in action that were just mention. The Bible states: "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jeremiah 17:9)


Life is too short to be bogged down with the things I've mentioned. Seek peace, honesty, integrity. Deception can not only destroy those you attempt to deceive; it can also destroy you. Make up your mind. I hope this writing has place you at the crossroads of making a decision not to deceive or allow yourself to be deceived.

Note: There is another form of deception, and maybe we will discuss that in the very near future.

~These are my thoughts ... I  welcome yours~

~The Weight of Memory~

Life is huge and displays many signs that leads us in different directions. Some signs are straight forward and others directs to detours before getting to our desired destinations. Moving forward, some people believe holding on and hanging in there are signs of great strength. But, there are times when it takes more strength to know when to let go and then do it.

Life has a way of going in circles. Ideally, it would and should be a straight forward path ... We should always know where we are going, We should always be able to move forward and if necessary, leave detrimental things behind. If, we were able to do this, there would be nothing but the present and future. Instead, many of us constantly find ourselves where we started. When we try to move forward, we end up taking a step backwards. We carry everything with us, the weight of memories weighing us down, tiring us out, until we collapse and give up.

We forget things we try to remember. We remember things we'd rather forget. The most scary thing about memory is that it leaves no choice. It has mastered an incomprehensible art of forgetting. It erases, it distorts, it fills in blank spaces with details that don't and may never have existed.

But we remember it --- or choose to remember it. I've learned that the past is the foundation that holds our lives in place. Without its support, we would have nothing for guidance. We spend so much time focusing on what lies ahead, when what has fallen behind is just as important. Part of what defines us is not where we are going, but where we've been.

There are places and people we will never see again, and even though we move on and let them go or try too, they will forever, remain a part of who we are!

there are things that will never change, things we will carry with us as long as we live. But as we move forward and experience a cloudy, unsure future, we must find strength by learning to leave some things behind,

Listen, many of us want to believe in fairy tales and happy endings, but life is not always that way... Therefore, whatever memories and things you are holding on too, but realize that you need to let go; try and let go soon and Live, Always Love and Forever Laugh...

I hope this makes sense. As always, I welcome any and all comments.

~These are my thoughts ... I welcome yours~ 

~Finding your Purpose~,

Psalm 139: 15 lets us know that God knows us inside and out. He knew you and me before we were ever conceive.

The world is a beautiful place, with beautiful scenery, and beautiful people. And everything that God made has a purpose. Which included every part of your body. If you don't believe, then injure a part of your body that you think is insignificant and you will see exactly what mean. This is because everything God has created fits like a puzzle!

You and I have a purpose in this life. However long we have to live on this side, we have a purpose! And, if you are going to discover how God wants to use your life and work, then you must understand and know why you were created. If you start trying to determine your purpose in life before understanding why you were created, you will inevitably get hung up on the things you do as the basis for fulfillment in your life, which will only lead to frustration and disappointment.

First of all, God created you (us) to know Him and to have an intimate relationship with Him. In fact, God says that if a man is going to boast about anything in life, "boast about this: that he (You and I) understand and know Me" (God), (Jeremiah 9:24). Man kind's relationship with God was lost when Adam and Eve sinned in the garden. Jesus' death on the cross, however, allowed us to restore this relationship with God and to have an intimate fellowship with Him.

The apostle Paul came to understand this when he said, "he gave up himself and all that he had to know Christ personally, and to experience Christ's resurrection power, to be a partner in His suffering, and go all the way with Him to death itself". Please read (Philippians 3:10).

I learned this definition of a christian back in 1974-75. "A Christian is one who has been taken into that secret by the personal experience of redemption. It's life is a centering around the Cross of God in Christ. It's characteristic or likeness is that we too must be crucified and live only that life hide with Christ in God." You (I) must die to who we are; that is the only way we can live and endure this christian life. (Galatians 2:20).

Lastly, establishing this relationship with God is vital to understanding your purpose. if you don't have this relationship with God, you will seek to fulfill your purpose out of wrong motives, such as insecurity, pride, money, relationships, guilt, or anger.  The list goes on and on, never reaching a resolved state.

God's desire for you and I is to be motivated out of love for Him.  To worship Him. To know His Resurrection Power in your life. As you develop your relationship with God, He will begin to reveal His purpose for your life to you. Be patient and trust the Holy Spirit's guidance!

God said:
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord"(Jeremiah 29:11)

You have a unique purpose. Ask God to help you discover it.

I wrote this because I was compelled to do so. God's word will never return unto Him Void.

~These are my thoughts ... I welcome yours~