Here it continues...
Day 8: Mi Familia!
Family is a wonderful thing to have. This is my blessing of choice for this day as I was reminded at a funeral where a family had to say good-bye to their beloved. Not without drama, but full of love. Thanks for my family!
Day 9: Encouragement!
I saw a friend I hadn't seen in a while, and she was encouraging me. It was not due to anything currently being experienced, but I appreciated the love and care that was expressed in it, and it will be important in a season yet to be experienced. From another perspective: A friend had a family emergency, and I was quite happy to be able to encourage them, and one can only hope it did some good.
Day 10: Laughter!
I find it's such a good feeling to laugh at one's self. To walk into a wrong meeting, and to be lost, yet laugh at it all is truly a blessing. It does wonders for the body and the mind. It also doesn't hurt to be able to laugh with friends, even if I'm the subject of such laughter... or they are!
Day 11: Food!
Food is absolutely a wonderful gift from God. He inspired chefs worldwide to create masterpieces. One such is Indian cuisine. Yum, yum! It may be the reason for a bulge in the mid-section, but even that is a good thing...it means I have that which can nourish me.
Day 12: Clothes!
Every once in a while I go through my closet and notice some of the clothes I have...some are worn, some new, some forgotten. Whatever the situation, they provide privacy, warm, cool, and so much more. They also provide some boost to one's self esteem every once in a while. And more and more I appreciate that I am beautiful, and clothes brings that out ever so often. (PS: I don't look as horrible in leggings as I thought I would! Who'd have thunk it?!)
Day 13: Eyes!
I went to a church that had hymnals with words so small, but yet I could read it WITHOUT glasses or braille. There was also some eye-candy on which I could partake (I did hear the message though so no horrors). It also helps that seeing the road allows me to drive where I wanna go. The list could go on and on and on. The summary of it all: I am grateful for my sight. I pray I will continue to have this blessing for some time to come, preferably til the day I die (and that my vision will improve with faith and age)!
Day 14: The Bible!
The more I read this wonderful book, the more I love it! It has so much to offer. It's history, encouragement, inspiration, truth...What more can I say except see for yourself!
More to come in another week!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Monday, November 7, 2011
A Thanks A Day: The Beginning
In the latter part of October (the best month of the year), I started seeing ads related to Thanksgiving (and Christmas). It started to play on my mind that I have much to be grateful for. But that's not where it started. I thought more and more about Ecclesiates which was the Book of focus at Bible Study. To say it has words of wisdom that span centuries and millennia and still is relevant today is an under-statement! The Book is based on one simple truth - that everything outside of God is meaningless! It encourages us to recognise this truth whilst enjoying the life God has given us! And the more I read, the more determined I became to enjoy life, to live as fulsomely as I can. And I resolved that November would be a time to reflect on gifts in my life. Hence, A Thanks A Day begun!
Day 1: Life!
Without it, there is no thanks that I could give. So for the ability to breath, to feel my heart beating, THANKS!
Day 2: Hearing!
My morning with greeted with the cries of a spoilt child...as are many other mornings. After the initial annoyance, I heard the birds chirping. And I thought - how wonderful it is to be able to hear!
Day 3: A Job I Love!
Ecclesiates 2:24; 5: 18 says that enjoying one's toilsome days is a gift from God. Many persons have asked what it is that I do (for work), and my answer is typically the same - it's doing what I like to do! Yes there are challenges, but I am quite happy to do what I do. It's a package really - the work, those with whom I work, and so much more. And it doesn't hurt that it pays the bills :-)
Day 4: Ability to Learn!
Quiero hablar español mucho bueno. High school was a good start (up to the CXC level), but practically no follow-up meant dormant and extinct information. More and more one realised the value of a second language, thus began the journey of teaching oneself spanish. Me gusta estudiar español. Tengo que ir a Cuba o Puerto Rico y practicar en un año...o algún día.
Day 5: Friends!
Friends are wonderful! Some are near, some are far. Some I speak with often. Others...not so much. But whatever their role and how frequently they play said role, I am grateful to have 'em!
Day 6: No Car Accidents!
On my way to church (late, but that's not the issue), I put on my indicator to turn right. Good thing I am perceptive enough to notice the way a particular car directly behind me was driving, and it was not with "road manners". I was able to stop mid-turn as said car (green toyota, license plate ending FY) overtook me ON THE RIGHT and (wait for it...) blowing ME in the process as though I am a jacka$$ committing a "road sin" (on my way to church no less). But I continued on to church, and heard a wonderful sermon on loving others. Anyways, I reflected on near-misses and other accidents I avoided without even knowing, and was very grateful.
Day 7 (today): Freedom!
The ability to choose should not be taken lightly. Many would do just about anything for freedom. I am not in prison, nor am I bound to eat the same thing every day, nor do I need to drive the same route to go home at the same time each day.... It's all my choice. It's one of those things we often take for granted, and frustrating evening traffic reminded me of this simple, yet important gift.
I will post again in a week. 'Til then, hasta luego!
Day 1: Life!
Without it, there is no thanks that I could give. So for the ability to breath, to feel my heart beating, THANKS!
Day 2: Hearing!
My morning with greeted with the cries of a spoilt child...as are many other mornings. After the initial annoyance, I heard the birds chirping. And I thought - how wonderful it is to be able to hear!
Day 3: A Job I Love!
Ecclesiates 2:24; 5: 18 says that enjoying one's toilsome days is a gift from God. Many persons have asked what it is that I do (for work), and my answer is typically the same - it's doing what I like to do! Yes there are challenges, but I am quite happy to do what I do. It's a package really - the work, those with whom I work, and so much more. And it doesn't hurt that it pays the bills :-)
Day 4: Ability to Learn!
Quiero hablar español mucho bueno. High school was a good start (up to the CXC level), but practically no follow-up meant dormant and extinct information. More and more one realised the value of a second language, thus began the journey of teaching oneself spanish. Me gusta estudiar español. Tengo que ir a Cuba o Puerto Rico y practicar en un año...o algún día.
Day 5: Friends!
Friends are wonderful! Some are near, some are far. Some I speak with often. Others...not so much. But whatever their role and how frequently they play said role, I am grateful to have 'em!
Day 6: No Car Accidents!
On my way to church (late, but that's not the issue), I put on my indicator to turn right. Good thing I am perceptive enough to notice the way a particular car directly behind me was driving, and it was not with "road manners". I was able to stop mid-turn as said car (green toyota, license plate ending FY) overtook me ON THE RIGHT and (wait for it...) blowing ME in the process as though I am a jacka$$ committing a "road sin" (on my way to church no less). But I continued on to church, and heard a wonderful sermon on loving others. Anyways, I reflected on near-misses and other accidents I avoided without even knowing, and was very grateful.
Day 7 (today): Freedom!
The ability to choose should not be taken lightly. Many would do just about anything for freedom. I am not in prison, nor am I bound to eat the same thing every day, nor do I need to drive the same route to go home at the same time each day.... It's all my choice. It's one of those things we often take for granted, and frustrating evening traffic reminded me of this simple, yet important gift.
I will post again in a week. 'Til then, hasta luego!
Friday, October 7, 2011
From a Grateful Heart
'Twas a year, balanced, now coming to an its close,
And gratitude is overflowing from a grateful heart.
The year's start was punctuated with inadequate self-worth, unrecognised blessings, ungratefulness, false perception of confidence, largely faithless existence, somewhat lack-luster smiles and laughs...unclaimed joy!
But God used my trying circumstances - storms, fires, valleys - and built upon the blessings already scripted. He redirected my path, my mind and spirit, to a better, more excellent way. Thus continued a journey to my supra-normal being, but with a renewed drive and focus etched within!
I am accepting my destiny - that I'm unique. I was born to stand out, no matter what!
My smiles are brighter; my laughs grow richer; my joy is soaring to heights of eagles and beyond! My love for God, for others, for self is growing and growing...
'Twas a year, balanced, now coming to an its close,
And gratitude is bubbling and overflowing from a grateful heart!
Now I patiently await a new year with new challenges, risks, experiences, blessings... and many more reasons to smile :-).
Selah!
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
On Faith and More
One of the challenges I have been having is faith. In theory (and ironically from experience), my mind knows that God will take care of me in whatever situation, however big or small. Yet, there is worry, always being concerned, etc. So naturally I pray for God to allow my faith to grow. Well He did answer my prayer. The trick (if I can call it that) is this: the only way for faith to grow is to be in situations that REQUIRE one to exercise it! The answered prayer is therefore a continuation of life, with circumstances having difference faces than before, but with the same purpose. So I tackle them with a more refined attitude. I prefer to learn some lessons but once!
Then there is trust, patience, perseverance, fearlessness...These are areas that are grossly lacking (based on my assessment of where I need to be). And as with faith, the only way to change that is to be in situations that challenge me to trust, be patient, persevere and not fear, etc. It sucks (speaking frankly), but that's a part of the process. I have enough experience to know that I'll be the better for it, so I just have to keep on keeping on.
It is true what they (and the Bible) say - gold can only be purified in fire! Faith, trust, patience and more are learnt when tempted, tested and tried.
Here endeth my ramble!
Then there is trust, patience, perseverance, fearlessness...These are areas that are grossly lacking (based on my assessment of where I need to be). And as with faith, the only way to change that is to be in situations that challenge me to trust, be patient, persevere and not fear, etc. It sucks (speaking frankly), but that's a part of the process. I have enough experience to know that I'll be the better for it, so I just have to keep on keeping on.
It is true what they (and the Bible) say - gold can only be purified in fire! Faith, trust, patience and more are learnt when tempted, tested and tried.
Here endeth my ramble!
Monday, September 19, 2011
ConfidentLe
I was going about my business one day when it hit me:
Confidence is a choice!
It's not that one didn't know that before, but every once in a while people have these seemingly obvious revelations that one can't help but ponder and internalize. It seems people have already started noticing changes in me. I suppose that's a sign that it's not just in my head :-)
Here's to a more confident Le!
Confidence is a choice!
It's not that one didn't know that before, but every once in a while people have these seemingly obvious revelations that one can't help but ponder and internalize. It seems people have already started noticing changes in me. I suppose that's a sign that it's not just in my head :-)
Here's to a more confident Le!
Thursday, July 14, 2011
More Means Easier?
There are many things we know in theory. We know, for example, that the more we do something, the easier it gets. But for some reason, we sometimes wallow in self pity or whatever else we so choose, and thereby prolong the cycle of our bad habit or pain or ill-feelings. But as I have shown myself, the more I practice something, the easier it gets. There are instances when I fall back to old habits, and also times when the lesson seems lost (though I'd swear I got it the first time around). The trick though is to not dwell on past victories but use them as reminders of what can be accomplished (as I learnt the hard way). Tests or temptations may get more difficult, but the key to overcoming them is to learn the principles from each preceding lesson and apply them as necessary. After all, we are never given more than we can bear!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Constant-Le Evolving
It's always good to look back at past experiences and actions. I've been doing that recently and have come to realise that my journey has been long, yet rewarding because of how far I've travelled.
But...
God tends to allow certain events to happen to keep us grounded. Just when one may start to almost revel in the progress made, one is rudely or politely reminded that the path to one's best self is FAR from completion. The past successes have made me into what I have become - a bit more mature, wiser and smarter than the me a few years, even months ago. But there is yet more growing to do.
I've just barely scratched the surface it seems. It therefore means Le is constantly changing, and one can only hope it'll always be for the better.
But...
God tends to allow certain events to happen to keep us grounded. Just when one may start to almost revel in the progress made, one is rudely or politely reminded that the path to one's best self is FAR from completion. The past successes have made me into what I have become - a bit more mature, wiser and smarter than the me a few years, even months ago. But there is yet more growing to do.
I've just barely scratched the surface it seems. It therefore means Le is constantly changing, and one can only hope it'll always be for the better.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Losing to Gain
Every once in a while I have these realizations. Recently, it has been about loss and gain. How so? Read on.
Let's begin with a story - Not too long ago, I made the decision to get braces. It is financially draining, but considering the problems I was having, I didn't see myself with much of an option. It also happened that putting these braces in coincided with a me that had changed to a point I had only previously dreamed about...a change I love and am grateful to have been given to opportunity to make (thanks to the Father). I therefore smile a whole lot more. The irony is that I love my smile in the time I am slowly losing it for what it has been all my life. It seems that most people smile less when they wear braces, but for me, I seem to be smiling all the time. It's as though it's enough to wake up (in pain or otherwise) for me to smile. And when taking pictures, I can't help but smile big and bright (which was a rare occurrence before).
In time past, I made a vow that nooone would take my smile away. At the time, I hadn't been able to quite accomplish that feat. But my attempts to achieve it did help to get me to where I am today. I am learning to love me for me and not give much concern about what others think. Yes, I will still listen, but at the end of it, I determine what needs to be done. It is liberating! I do realise I still have a "ways" to go, but having gotten to this point is wonderful, and I intend to continue aiming for that peak...whatever that peak may be.
My confidence is not that I think a lot of what others think (be it good or bad). It's just me appreciating God made me as me, and my vulnerabilities are what make me unique. It has also been that loss has resulted in much gain. I lost myself, but now I have and am regaining me. As such, I am a more confident person, one who takes more control over what she does and who she is. I'm taking away the power over me that I gave mankind who had no business owning it in the first place. So forgive me if my smile is too bright. Since you can't beat it out of me, join in :-D
Let's begin with a story - Not too long ago, I made the decision to get braces. It is financially draining, but considering the problems I was having, I didn't see myself with much of an option. It also happened that putting these braces in coincided with a me that had changed to a point I had only previously dreamed about...a change I love and am grateful to have been given to opportunity to make (thanks to the Father). I therefore smile a whole lot more. The irony is that I love my smile in the time I am slowly losing it for what it has been all my life. It seems that most people smile less when they wear braces, but for me, I seem to be smiling all the time. It's as though it's enough to wake up (in pain or otherwise) for me to smile. And when taking pictures, I can't help but smile big and bright (which was a rare occurrence before).
In time past, I made a vow that nooone would take my smile away. At the time, I hadn't been able to quite accomplish that feat. But my attempts to achieve it did help to get me to where I am today. I am learning to love me for me and not give much concern about what others think. Yes, I will still listen, but at the end of it, I determine what needs to be done. It is liberating! I do realise I still have a "ways" to go, but having gotten to this point is wonderful, and I intend to continue aiming for that peak...whatever that peak may be.
My confidence is not that I think a lot of what others think (be it good or bad). It's just me appreciating God made me as me, and my vulnerabilities are what make me unique. It has also been that loss has resulted in much gain. I lost myself, but now I have and am regaining me. As such, I am a more confident person, one who takes more control over what she does and who she is. I'm taking away the power over me that I gave mankind who had no business owning it in the first place. So forgive me if my smile is too bright. Since you can't beat it out of me, join in :-D
Friday, May 6, 2011
Shocks to Shots
Sometime after 4 a.m. this morning, I could swear my bed was swaying. I jumped up slightly disoriented, not sure if it was a dream or not. I heard dogs barking so I figured that it wasn't a dream. For a few minutes after the quake, I wondered if I should go outside or something, but I opted to remain and see what happens. Unfortunately, I get a headache when I am startled like that when sleeping, so sleeping afterward proved a challenge.
In my sleepless state, I tried to get my mind and heart to calm down. That didn't quite happen as hoped, but hey! So I turned and tossed a bit. One one occasion I looked up and that's when I realised that my head was directly below my air conditioning unit! It occurred to me that had the earthquake been much stronger, it could easily have been dislodged and obeyed the rules of gravity. It was a wake-up call so I resolved to change the position of bed. I also realised that I needed to be careful in not locking up too tightly. It's one thing to want to keep potential intruders out, but it's another to be trapped inside. The events were a reminder that I sometimes take life and so many other things for granted, so I "woke up" feeling happy for life.
After work, I went to lyme with a couple of friends. It's true what they say - time really flies when you are having fun! We had a really good time just sipping lattes and chatting. I got home sometime after 8 p.m. I changed from my work clothes, put some food in the microwave and started watching tv. Soon after, I heard what appeared to be screams. Because the tv was on, I wasn't sure if it was real or not. A few seconds later, it was obvious that they were indeed real, because they became louder and were followed by a few gunshots. And it was also obvious that this was all taking place by the houses that were a parking lot and a wall away from my apartment. I called the police right away, shaking a bit and praying it wasn't serious. I also turned off my lights and took a "safe" position for a few minutes. I didn't hear much after that, so I assumed whatever went down had ceased. A friend who lives close by heard later that some men came and robbed a lady of her car, and a goodly neighbour fired the shots but to no avail. Fortunately, God answered my prayer because noone was injured.
After that last event, I was pissed! I had such a high coming home because of the time I was able to spend with friends. The events happened less than 15 minutes or so post me getting home, so I could have easily been caught up in the get-away. My friend who lives close by could also have been caught in the attack, and just like that, either of us could have been hurt or worse. I could have been an audio witness to a vicious crime, and someone could have lost their mother, sister, friend... It's almost as though many good things in Jamaica are marred by evil forces, and I felt that the events ruined my and other people's evening. I was pissed! It's one thing to be reminded by Acts of God to be prepared for whatever life throws out, but it's another to be reminded by people who have evil residing in them.
The lesson of today: Life is precious and people need Jesus! This lady is therefore gonna continue finding happiness in the small and the big and the in-between. God knows that I need a (gentle?) reminder ever so often, so I am prepared for that...I hope.
In my sleepless state, I tried to get my mind and heart to calm down. That didn't quite happen as hoped, but hey! So I turned and tossed a bit. One one occasion I looked up and that's when I realised that my head was directly below my air conditioning unit! It occurred to me that had the earthquake been much stronger, it could easily have been dislodged and obeyed the rules of gravity. It was a wake-up call so I resolved to change the position of bed. I also realised that I needed to be careful in not locking up too tightly. It's one thing to want to keep potential intruders out, but it's another to be trapped inside. The events were a reminder that I sometimes take life and so many other things for granted, so I "woke up" feeling happy for life.
After work, I went to lyme with a couple of friends. It's true what they say - time really flies when you are having fun! We had a really good time just sipping lattes and chatting. I got home sometime after 8 p.m. I changed from my work clothes, put some food in the microwave and started watching tv. Soon after, I heard what appeared to be screams. Because the tv was on, I wasn't sure if it was real or not. A few seconds later, it was obvious that they were indeed real, because they became louder and were followed by a few gunshots. And it was also obvious that this was all taking place by the houses that were a parking lot and a wall away from my apartment. I called the police right away, shaking a bit and praying it wasn't serious. I also turned off my lights and took a "safe" position for a few minutes. I didn't hear much after that, so I assumed whatever went down had ceased. A friend who lives close by heard later that some men came and robbed a lady of her car, and a goodly neighbour fired the shots but to no avail. Fortunately, God answered my prayer because noone was injured.
After that last event, I was pissed! I had such a high coming home because of the time I was able to spend with friends. The events happened less than 15 minutes or so post me getting home, so I could have easily been caught up in the get-away. My friend who lives close by could also have been caught in the attack, and just like that, either of us could have been hurt or worse. I could have been an audio witness to a vicious crime, and someone could have lost their mother, sister, friend... It's almost as though many good things in Jamaica are marred by evil forces, and I felt that the events ruined my and other people's evening. I was pissed! It's one thing to be reminded by Acts of God to be prepared for whatever life throws out, but it's another to be reminded by people who have evil residing in them.
The lesson of today: Life is precious and people need Jesus! This lady is therefore gonna continue finding happiness in the small and the big and the in-between. God knows that I need a (gentle?) reminder ever so often, so I am prepared for that...I hope.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Thou Shalt Learn to Give AND Receive
One of my biggest challenges is knowing how to give and also to receive. It doesn't matter what - it could be money, food, time, etc. But I find that more and more I am being put in various situations that are forcing me to learn, especially about receiving.
Recently, I made a decision that I wanted to go to the US because of a family issue (let's call it that). At first I was a bit concerned since I realise it would cost quite a lot. But in keeping with my new mode of operation, I gradually reduced the worry and concern and put it more in God's hands. Not long after, I am told that I will be heading to a workshop in Panama. It also happened that the trip would routed through Miami. Like seriously?! I requested the cost of changing the ticket so I could spend some time in Florida, and they did it at no extra cost. Needless to say I was amazed at how God worked because I did not see that coming. It also didn't hurt that I was going to be in an all-inclusive hotel in a place that I had wanted to visit for some time now.
The weekend before my trip, I spent time with a friend who I hadn't seen or lymed with in a while. Originally we were gonna go eat ice-cream, but then at the last minute she decided on a movie instead. I had my palace card with me, and because their machines were not working, I got the ticket free. At first I looked at the cashier waiting for further information, which wasn't forthcoming. Then I asked if it's free and she said yes. There was a bit of guilt. I mean, it's a holiday weekend and I get a movie ticket for free?
These are just two of many recent instances of receiving gifts that were unexpected, the former being the most important of course. But it reminded me of how much I need to learn the art of receiving, whether the gifts are from family, friends or strangers. I have been given many things in the past, and whilst I largely accepted them, there was often an element of guilt; I felt almost undeserving. It was especially difficult when I was not able to give back. It still is actually.
I believe in a God that specialises in impossibilities. It is important therefore that I continue to slowly chip away what has been a long-standing habit. Many instances and situations and persons have reminded me that sometimes I am blessed to bless others. I should not want to take away the fulfillment someone gets from giving something to me, nor should I want to rob someone of receiving some of the blessings that come my way. The biggest and most difficult reminder though is that I should not want to reject the blessings God has identified for me and noone else! The challenge, then, is to find the right balance. It's a struggle, but I am learning more and more that I can do way more than I ever thought possible.
Recently, I made a decision that I wanted to go to the US because of a family issue (let's call it that). At first I was a bit concerned since I realise it would cost quite a lot. But in keeping with my new mode of operation, I gradually reduced the worry and concern and put it more in God's hands. Not long after, I am told that I will be heading to a workshop in Panama. It also happened that the trip would routed through Miami. Like seriously?! I requested the cost of changing the ticket so I could spend some time in Florida, and they did it at no extra cost. Needless to say I was amazed at how God worked because I did not see that coming. It also didn't hurt that I was going to be in an all-inclusive hotel in a place that I had wanted to visit for some time now.
The weekend before my trip, I spent time with a friend who I hadn't seen or lymed with in a while. Originally we were gonna go eat ice-cream, but then at the last minute she decided on a movie instead. I had my palace card with me, and because their machines were not working, I got the ticket free. At first I looked at the cashier waiting for further information, which wasn't forthcoming. Then I asked if it's free and she said yes. There was a bit of guilt. I mean, it's a holiday weekend and I get a movie ticket for free?
These are just two of many recent instances of receiving gifts that were unexpected, the former being the most important of course. But it reminded me of how much I need to learn the art of receiving, whether the gifts are from family, friends or strangers. I have been given many things in the past, and whilst I largely accepted them, there was often an element of guilt; I felt almost undeserving. It was especially difficult when I was not able to give back. It still is actually.
I believe in a God that specialises in impossibilities. It is important therefore that I continue to slowly chip away what has been a long-standing habit. Many instances and situations and persons have reminded me that sometimes I am blessed to bless others. I should not want to take away the fulfillment someone gets from giving something to me, nor should I want to rob someone of receiving some of the blessings that come my way. The biggest and most difficult reminder though is that I should not want to reject the blessings God has identified for me and noone else! The challenge, then, is to find the right balance. It's a struggle, but I am learning more and more that I can do way more than I ever thought possible.
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