...Breathe...

Amazing Moments

2010-02-05T14:07:00.000-08:00

It's amazing how time flies ... how life goes in this spiraling, out of control motion at moments. However, I've always thought that it's the MOMENTS that make life so AMAZING.

It's been a long time since I've written. I tell myself I don't have time ... but in reality, I think there are times I just lose inspiration. Not that there aren't inspiring people and things around me ... I think it just might have to do with my motivation. I'm a work in progress on that one ...

However, I've been reminded in recent days of the AMAZING people and AMAZING moments that make up my life. I never fully realize what's right in front of me, until I sit down, take a moment and just marvel in the MANY blessings I feel really unworthy of at times. While I feel that way at times, the thing is ... I don't want to EVER take any of those blessings for granted. I am learning to cherish EVERY single moment I have on this earth ... and if today was my last day, at least I could say that I lived this day, to the very fullest.

I write about this a lot ... but hey, the saying goes ... 'write what you know'. This is what I know. Life isn’t about what you get, but what you give; it's not what you know, but what you learn; it’s not who you love, but how you love; it’s not what you say, but what you do. Live everyday fully, compassionately, humbly, whole-heartedly.

A Little Goes a Long Way ...

2009-12-29T11:40:00.000-08:00

Hello blogging world! I am going to start posting some stories that my mom has written ... she is actually embarking on a new journey in her life ... these are just stories from her heart ... she wanted a way to relay them to the masses ... and I figured what better way to do that than through the blogging world! Hope some of you still read! God bless!

So, have you ever thought that because you can't send a bunch of money to a organization that you would like to help that there is no point in sending anything? Come on, really, you know that you have!!! Have you ever thought that if you can't talk to someone about whatever, that there is no reason to even give that person the time of day? Really!! I know I have.

Well, let me tell you something that God really opened my eyes to a few years back. I became a real animal advocate several years ago, but felt that if I couldn't send these organization a large amount of money that, well, it just wouldn't make any difference,. WRONG WRONG WRONG!!!!!! These places that I send contributions to are thrilled no matter what I send them.

And they tell me so too. This is my way to help those who cannot help themselves. When these organizations send be petitions, I sign them and send them back. I call my Senator, my Congressman and anyone else they advise me to call and let them know my opinion. Don't think it doesn't help? You can't be any more wrong. All contributions, all letters, all phone calls make a difference.

Second in point. I have a job that you meet the most off the wall people or the best of the best. The one thing I have learned about these folks, is a smile, a hello, a thank you or any gesture of kindness goes a long long way. I have seen people that would not even look at me when I open the door to my bus completely change because I give them a smile and a hello. Believe me, a gesture of appreciate to the most cold hearted person will change them, if only for a moment.

People are hungry for others to acknowledge them. Try it. It really won't hurt. It really will make you feel better too. Promise. Hey, and while your at it, give a $5'er to that organization you've been hearing about, or reading about. Honestly, it really does help.

Keep smiling and spread the news. God Bless. Roxie

A New Adventure

2009-09-01T20:37:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a REALLY long time. Life, my job, new endeavors have been a little time consuming. I'm definitely NOT complaining ... things are going really good. And they say, a busy girl is a happy girl. ;-)

Anyway, my sister and I have started our own photography business. It's been a long time coming for my little sister, and for me, it's more of a hobby. I am trying to get better at it, but my sister truly is the talented one!

We've done a wedding already, as well as a few other minor gigs, including photographing a young, aspiring model! It's been fun ... and would love for you all to check out our work, and tell us what you think!

We've begun a blog, which you can check out here: http://heysistersphotography.wordpress.com/. I want to continue to write, so I promise to keep everyone posted as often as possible.

Thank you for sharing in these moments and adventures ... there are many more to come, I imagine so! Be blessed! ~Emily

Ah the Chaos ... and the Moments ...

2009-07-10T20:36:00.000-07:00

I wish there was a dial that you could turn on and off for the brain. I mean wouldn't it be nice if you could 'flip a switch' when you actually WANTED to think and then 'flip a switch' for when you just wanted peace from the chaos? I don't know ... just a thought of nonsense perhaps.

Nonetheless, it's funny how we are who we are. While that's simple, yes, I still find it amazing how different and splendid each of us really is. I think that reality hit me when I was a kid. I looked up into the sky, realized how small I really was ... and then looked around me ... it was easy to see the beauty in others because I saw the insignificance of it all. Not the insignificance of life, but the amazing power of a moment.

I think so often, moments pass us by … without a glance, without a notice. They creep, they crawl, they unearth our inhibitions … Perhaps to be noticed, or maybe just to get our attention.

Whatever the reason, they bring life to us, they give us meaning, and somehow, they give us hope for yet another day.

It’s funny how time goes. It just goes and goes … it doesn’t matter if you want it to stand still for a moment … it just keeps going, with no end in sight. I guess, as I’ve gotten older that truth has become so relevant … it’s become a constant, no matter how fast my brain goes … and no matter how I wish it to stop.

I am not complaining … I feel so honored to still be here. I feel blessed that I still have breath in my body to STOP … LOOK … and CHERISH the ‘moments’ … whatever they are … because whatever they might be, they’re worth noticing.

So while that ‘flip ON and OFF' switch doesn’t exist for the brain … and while time continues to move and move … I am reminded of what’s right in front of me … and am so thankful for the beauty that surrounds me. Because after all, I can still look UP and realize everything is as it should be … and no matter how small and insignificant, I still have the 'moment'.

Changing Times

2009-07-04T05:40:00.001-07:00

So, it's been a long time. So much going on, so little time. Perhaps that's just an excuse, but honestly ... it's the truth.

Nonetheless, life is good. My job has become increasingly more consuming, but I think that's just the season of where my life is at right now.

It's funny how things change ... I think change is a good thing, yet sometimes it can be so overwhelming. I think change is a character builder ... and as I've gotten older, I've realized that change is such a necessity ... it makes us become the people we were always meant to become.

While I wish I understood life a little better, I've learned and continue to learn that having all the answers and understanding everything isn't a prerequisite for living life. You just do it ... and live it ... day by day. You learn from living, and through living you learn life's greatest lessons. It's amazing how that happens, yet I think that's what it's all about.

Seeking ...

2009-06-05T05:41:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time ... I know. While I don't have a ton of time to write much, I wanted to at least share something I wrote a few months ago. Just a little poem ... that I hope you like.

Seeking

Jumping into a sea of confidence…
That is what I seek…
Flying above the vast clouds that fill a beautiful blue sky…
That is what I ask for…
Climbing atop a mountainous terrain…
That is my greatest fear…
Wishing on a star …
That is what gives me hope …
Understanding humanity …
My greatest uncertainty …
Seeking You …
My only comfort …

It's a Roller Coaster Ride

2009-04-06T17:28:00.000-07:00

Life can sometimes be this roller coaster of emotions. The ups, the downs, the twists, the turns ... it's rather remarkable that we can actually make it back to the docking point.

As children, I don't think we ever realize what we're getting ourselves into. As adults, I don't think we ever get used to the ride.

I guess, all we can do is go with the ups and downs ... and be the people that we know we should be ... Be genuine, be caring, be compassionate, be people of character and people who love first and foremost. Then, I think the roller coaster ride gets just a little easier.

Infinite

2009-03-20T13:55:00.001-07:00

So I was thinking the other day ... I haven't written a blog in a REALLY long time. Almost a full month. That's not like me, but I'll tell you ... life has been a little crazy during the past few weeks. With work, relationships, and life ... sometimes, it gets a little hectic and you have to make the time to sit down ... take a breath, and make sure life isn't going in a whirlwind that you have no control over.

Anyway, I've also been thinking a LOT about blessings. I have so many of them and I can't even begin to express my gratitude for each of them in words. It's amazing how things come and go ... and it sure is amazing how God always provides ... even in the darkest of days ... even in the midst of uncertainty ... even when hope is only as small as a grain of sand ... it's rather remarkable knowing that even in those moments, He is carrying us ... carrying us to something greater ... carrying us through something monumental ... carrying us and making us stronger ... wiser ... and even more grateful.

While I wish sometimes I had all the answers ... there is a little comfort in knowing that I can look up into the sky, and see every star, exactly where it should be ... and ... see the universe and all it's infinity ... in those moments, I realize, everything is as it should be.

The Power of Film

2009-02-19T16:11:00.000-08:00

I love film. I think it’s an amazing medium to get a message across. I’ve watched a couple different films the past few weeks that have really left an impression upon me.

The first is a film called Slumdog Millionaire ... It's an amazing story … of amazing triumph. It chronicles the life of a young man, who grew up in the slums of Mumbai. Without giving to much detail, he winds up on India’s version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire. He ends up winning big, but because of his status in society, he is thought to have cheated. From there, he is interrogated and reveals to authorities pivotal moments in his life, which then reveals why he knows each question asked of him on the show.

I’ve never seen a film so enthralling, so captivating … it makes you truly blessed with what you have right in front of you … but also, it will make you aware of the atrocities in other parts of the world. Despite this young man’s tragedy, heartache, and pain, he overcomes, and in the end, truly finds the happiness he deserves.

The second film is in a completely different genre. It’s called The Family that Preys. It’s a Tyler Perry film that I must say, I was truly mesmerized by. It follows two families from different walks of life …

The story tells how the families become intertwined by tragedy, infidelity, and lies. But it also reveals the amazing power of grace and forgiveness. It shows how our choices can affect our lives ... how they can make us the people we become, whether that is good or bad.

Amazing films, with amazing messages! Check em' out!

Slumdog Millionaire

2009-02-16T19:04:00.000-08:00

One of the most amazing films I've ever seen ... check it out!

... "I Have Found My Strength In You" ...

2009-02-05T18:37:00.000-08:00

How amazing it is that God knows us so well, He knows exactly what and who we need at exactly the right time. I’ve been recently amazed by some of the people that I’ve been fortunate enough to have encounters with. They make me realize the beauty of PEOPLE and the power of human contact.

With my job, I don’t have much of that. I miss that interaction with people, real people. It’s nice to actually have actual encounters with people and to learn more about their lives …

I’m so amazed at how strong people really are. To go through their struggles, hardships, pain … and in light of them, they find hope and comfort in knowing that it all happens for a reason. I’m astounded by their strength and perseverance.

To each of you … you know who you are … thank you for giving me a little part of yourself … and showing me what it truly means to be courageous. I am forever grateful and can only hope to be as strong some day.

Endless ...

2009-01-25T00:29:00.000-08:00

I'm writing a little late tonight. As I can't sleep ... which, if I'm honest, is most nights in my existence. Although I wish I could sleep, I feel like I must be awake for some reason ... I'm wired in this way to think ... and think ... and think some more.

Nonetheless, is there ever a time that you're thinking and you really have no idea what it is you're thinking about? I mean, that probably sounds very strange, but I imagine, it's the endlessness of my thoughts themselves ...

Anyway, as we get further into this New Year, into 2009 ... I've made it a point to start 'living life more'. We live in such a beautiful place ... a place filled with freedom and hope ... a place where I truly believe, anything can happen. It's amazing what a little hard work and determination can do...

In this New Year, filled with endless possibilities, I'd like to think I'll try new things that I've never tried before ... visit places that I've never visited before ... but mostly, I want to do more for others ... give time and attention to those things that really matter ... because after all, we're not promised tomorrow ... so, this year, I want to live every minute, embrace every moment as if it were my last ... enjoy life and simply ... LOVE every second of it ...

Happy New Year ... from Chicago!

2009-01-07T17:37:00.000-08:00

While it's been WAY to long ... I wanted to share a few photos with you all ... my husband and I, and a few friends celebrated the New Year in Chicago. I can't tell you how awesome it was! More writing to come ... but for now, please enjoy the photos! God Bless!

~Emily

So ... Why are You Here?

2008-12-18T19:01:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought about the reason why you’re here? I mean really, honestly, sat down and thought about what it is you were put on this earth for? And, with that … have you thought about why you’re still here? I know I talk about this a lot, but it’s something that I ALWAYS think about.

See, I’m a twin. When my sister Melissa and I were born, we were born two months premature. I was just under two pounds and my sister was 2.5 pounds when we were born. We were in an incubator for the first 6 months of our lives and I have to wonder what was so special about us that we made it? And then I realize … and remember … God knows so much more about why were here then we do. He knows what we are meant to do … He knows why He breathed life into us and He knows when we fail or succeed.

After overcoming that obstacle of existing, even after doctors saying we just might not make it, I realize that His plans are so much greater then my own. And why not use the time that He’s given me to make something and be something, even if failing first is the actual first step.

Granted … at times, I sit back and think about what could have been … but then I realize what already is … which I am certain … is exactly what should be.

Ten Honest Things ...

2008-12-12T17:26:00.000-08:00

DM tagged me via the blog world to write 10 honest things about myself … so, here goes! (P.S. Thank you DM for including me!!!)

10. I pluck my eyebrows everyday, to keep them shapely and presentable. Hey, we woman have to practice pain for beauty!

9. I hate any type of scary movie. I have nightmares for days if I watch one.

8. I never carry cash. It’s almost a guarantee if I have cash, I spend it.

7. My favorite part of the day is when I wake up and realize I’m still here …

6. I don’t go to church because I don’t want to … not that I don’t ever want to go again, I just haven’t found one that’s worth the time … I know, that sounds really bad, but I’m just being honest here!

5. I really like to dance when no one is watching … whether it’s down the street or down my hallways at home, I love to jump and twirl … in secret!

4. I love Twilight!

3. I drove to California, Los Angeles to be exact, with my husband in 2003. We went through 11 states in the matter of eight days and it was the most exciting trip of my life.

2. I have the best times with my family … my three sisters are the funniest and most entertaining people I’ve ever known.

1. I am more in love with my husband today, then the day I married him.

Ok, so I'd like to tag Patricio, a.k.a. Stupid Boi.

Catching Up ...

2008-12-09T18:10:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time ... I haven't been as frequent in my writing as I'd like. I think it might have a lot to do with my time. Sure, that's an easy excuse ... but it's true. I just don't use my time as wisely as I should. It's my own fault ... but, there is so much going on these days, it's hard to find time to just relax, let alone write something thoughtful and meaningful. And you know ... I think that's what I miss. Writing about those thoughts ... those feelings that are still there ... those ideas that somehow, brought meaning to not only those of you out there who happen to read my nonsense, but also to me ... I think they just might be bottled up a little more ... However, I'm learning ... I just wish time could simply stand still for a moment; just to catch up ... to slow down for just a second to breathe ...

Blessed

2008-11-27T15:46:00.000-08:00

During this time of ‘Thanksgiving’, I’m reminded of how much I have; how much I have been blessed to receive ... how much I take for granted ...

I know this is so simple, but so many times we focus on the things we DON’T have, that we forget about the things that we’ve been incredibly blessed with ... the things that are staring right in front of us that we simply miss in passing ...

On this day of Thanksgiving, I'm reminded that life is not a series of events that make us ... but a series of moments that define our lives ...

So sit back, take a break from the chaos around you, and be thankful for LIFE ...

Twilight

2008-11-13T22:34:00.000-08:00

I always thought that passion was something innate in all of us. Perhaps it's something we learn? Not sure, but I've been thinking about it quite often these past few days.

I read this book ... now don't laugh, but it's about vampires and forbidden love. Yes, sounds corny and unbelievable, but really ... there was so much depth to it, so much heart and passion within it … I couldn’t put it down … It was the kind of book that after you finish reading, you say to yourself, ‘wow, does that kind of passion really exist’?

I’m not entirely sure if it’s the romance inside the pages, which makes me want to be inside the reality the characters live in, but there is something to the story. The human girl who finds love with someone who could take her life because of the ‘creature’ he is. Yet, because of the connection they share, the passion they hold for each other, they both choose life and choose forever, together. Their love is intense and real … their hearts are intertwined and connected … it’s a beautiful display of self-sacrifice …

Now, I don’t really know how this ties into anything spiritual, anything really meaningful at this juncture, but I do find it interesting and consuming the passion and love that these two characters possess for each other. The story is rather mesmerizing, compelling, while the images and detail of the characters are almost too perfect to keep reading. Yet again, the story of these two ‘star-crossed’ lovers, keeps you turning the pages, hoping and pleading with the author to make them timeless … together forever.

It begs the question, if you could live forever, what would you live for?

Ah, this Crazy Thing Called Life ...

2008-11-11T19:46:00.000-08:00

It’s been a long time … for that I’m sure. Life has been a series of twists and turns, but amazing nonetheless. My new nephew, Max John is a beauty and a blessing. I couldn’t be more ecstatic that I know him and that I get to watch him grow.

I am amazed by life in general these days. The people in it; the ups and downs … the daily struggle to just be the people we are. Life shouldn’t be about the things we don’t have, but about the things that are right in front of us. It’s a shame it takes us so long to figure that out. But, perhaps that’s why new beginnings and second chances are a part of it all.

I don’t have it all figured out just yet, but I’m learning … and learning to embrace life for what it is … where I go from here, that is still a mystery.

99 Balloons

2008-10-31T06:51:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how precious life is ... how fast it goes and how fast it can be taken away ... it's learning to cherish the days and moments that we have that leave a lasting legacy and impression on those around us ... I'd ask that you watch the video below when you have time ... I hope it moves you as it has me. God Bless ...

Justice and Love?

2008-10-25T20:18:00.000-07:00

While I wish I could write more at the current moment, I can't seem to get my thought processes in order at the present moment ... however, in this moment, I'd just like to share a quote:

"... Justice is what love looks like in public ..."

The Gift of Life

2008-10-12T19:13:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends ... so sorry I haven't posted in some time ... life has been hectic, beautiful, tragic, and wonderful, all at the same time! Will write more soon ... but I wanted to share a few photos of my new, gorgeous, chubby new nephew, Max John! My twin sister had him on October 2nd at 9:43AM ... he was almost 10 pounds ... if you can believe it! He is beautiful and wonderful!!! And ... it's amazing how you can love someone so much you only just met! Thank Jesus for babies! God Bless! More writing to come! ~Emily

Freedom in the Unknown

2008-09-18T11:44:00.000-07:00

Life is too short to become entangled in the things you have no control over … I’ve often thought that in those moments, when you realize you have no control over a situation, there is some ‘freedom’ … freedom in knowing that no matter how hard you try, you’re not going to change the moment … the ‘thing’ that you couldn’t control … that could be reassuring to some … that could be failure to others … I'm not entirely sure ... but, somehow … I find freedom in knowing that no matter what, firstly, God won’t give me anything I can’t handle, and secondly, what doesn’t kill me, will only make me that much stronger … because after all, life is too short to worry about the unknown …

Dare to be Great ...

2008-09-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

It is not the critic who counts;
not the man who points out how the strong man stumbled
or where the doer of deeds could have done them better.
The credit belongs to the man
who is actually in the arena,
whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood;
who strives valiantly;
who errs and comes short again and again;
who knows great enthusiasms,
the great devotions;
who spends himself in a worthy cause;
who at the best, knows in the end the triumph of high achievement,
and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while
DARING GREATLY
so that his place shall never be
with those timid souls
who know neither victory or defeat.

Theodore Roosevelt

The Power of Love ...

2008-09-12T16:51:00.000-07:00

It’s amazing how love can change you …

When I was a kid, I remember moments when my parents were happy … truly happy …
And … I remember moments when happiness was far away … far, far away …

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized the ‘genetics’ or the ‘DNA’ that I’ve been given, and I’ve learned those good ‘genes’ and the not so good ‘genes’ …

I believe my parents did the best they could … they loved us and they tried to love each other …

I don’t blame ANY of my behaviors, choices, or actions on my youth, or my parents … however, I do recognize, from my youth, those things that I saw, those moments where life was all but a happy ‘American Dream’ … I saw in my parents relationship, what I didn’t want to become in those moments… I realized what I wanted to avoid when I met the person I would spend the rest of my life with …

When I met my husband … I thought the love he had for me and the love I had for him could help make me become the person that I always knew I could be … however, it wasn’t that easy when we said ‘I Do’ … I had to confront the very things I never wanted to admit were a part of me …

But … the amazing thing is … although life hasn’t been peaches and cream, and there have been many ups and downs, HIS love has changed me … it has made me a better person … it has helped me become that person that I wanted to be so long ago … sure, I’m still a work in progress, but aren’t we all?

Through the LOVE of my husband … I have learned and continue to learn how much God loves me … He gave me a man who not only loves me in the good times, but also in the not so good times …

So, in the midst of a world ‘falling out of love’ … realize that love … can forever change you, if you truly let it …

The Motions

2008-09-09T19:08:00.000-07:00

Heard a song today ... was blown away by the lyrics ... thought I'd share them here, with you ...

It's a song called 'The Motions' by Matthew West ... listen to it here ...

This might hurt, it's not safe
But I know that I've gotta make a change
I don't care if I break,
At least I'll be feeling something
'Cause just okay is not enough
Help me fight through the nothingness of life

I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
Without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,
"What if I had given everything,
instead of going through the motions?"

No regrets, not this time
I'm gonna let my heart defeat my mind
Let Your love make me whole
I think I'm finally feeling something
'Cause just okay is not enough
Help me fight through the nothingness of this life

'Cause I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,
"What if I had given everything,
instead of going through the motions?"

take me all the way (take me all the way)
take me all the way ('cause I don't wanna go through the motions)
take me all the way (I know I'm finally feeling something real)
take me all the way

I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,
"What if I had given everything,
instead of going through the motions?"

I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,
"What if I had given everything,
instead of going through the motions?"

take me all the way (take me all the way)
take me all the way (I don't wanna go, I don't wanna go)
take me all the way (through the motions)
take me all the way

I don't wanna go through the motions...

A Lonely World ...

2008-09-05T18:07:00.000-07:00

Being alone is somewhat of a nuance … it’s this ‘shade of grey’ that you can’t really tell where it ends … where it begins …

I don’t know if you’ve ever been ‘alone’ … or felt as if you were ‘alone’ … but I have to think that we’ve all been there at one point or another in our lives … perhaps it’s just a ‘feeling’ that goes away, or it’s a feeling that is always lingering …

I’m not entirely sure why we feel alone when we’re really not … but perhaps, it’s a feeling we must feel to truly understand it … and in return, understand why the world feels it …

All We Really Need

2008-08-29T07:43:00.000-07:00

I've often thought when I was growing up … that friendships would really be ‘forever’ … that my imagination could always stay ‘wild’ with limitless ideas … that life would be this adventure, that was mine to ‘run’ with …

Yet as I’ve gotten older … and time has passed with ‘force’, I’ve realized that things just aren’t what they seem when you’re younger … perhaps we get a little jaded as we begin to realize what the ‘world’ and all its cruelty has to offer …

Sure, there will always be disappointments, but couldn’t we just ‘play’ like children to make time stand still? I miss youth because time really didn’t exist … it wasn’t racing like it is now … as a child, we learned to embrace the simple things … we cherished people and friends because in those moments when we were with those people, life was good and everything else seemed miles away …

It’s a beautiful thought to think that things will always be easy and that life won’t be this constant disappointment, but I suppose, those ups and downs, those valleys of highs and lows, are what make us the people we are … they make us rely on the one thing that IS and ALWAYS will be a constant, He never disappoints, is always there, no matter how many times we fall … thank God for Him … thank God for sending His Son to pick us up when we've been beaten down ... and thank God for moments like these, when we realize that all we really need is Him ...

A Cloud Filled Moment

2008-08-25T15:05:00.000-07:00

I wrote another poem the other day ... I suppose you could say I've 'picked' up the 'poetry pen' again ... it's just a few lines of my inner thoughts ... sometimes, I just have to get them OUT of my head ... enjoy and thank you for reading!

Picking apart their consistency, I wonder what they’re made of …

As they travel through the sky, with no destination thought out …

Large, small, medium, irregular, solid, translucent … no two are the same …

They’re perhaps like you and I …

Made of the same consistency, but no two are alike … Beautiful, unshaped, awkward; always 'works in progress' …

A 'Puff of Air' ...

2008-08-22T16:49:00.000-07:00

“I wonder why you care, God – why do you bother with us at all? All we are is a puff of air; we’re like shadows in a campfire”… Psalm 144 (The Message)

I read this passage from The Message a few months ago … for those of you NOT familiar with The Message, it's sort of an 'alternative' Bible ... written in layman's terms, to better understand the essence of what the Bible is trying to convey ... it's written in story format, and I would encourage any of you who just don't like to read the Bible, to try this out ...

Nonetheless, I’m not entirely sure why the excerpt spoke to me so deeply, but I just thought I’d post it here for pondering …

I guess you could say it’s a ‘realization’ of sorts … that I am nothing really … and the fact that God cares about me at all, is simply a miracle … I’m really a ‘puff of air’ that could be gone tomorrow … yet God still wants me here … He wants me here for a purpose … He still needs me, perhaps? He still needs you?

Not sure what you think about this passage, but it stirred up a little something in me … I hope it does the same for you … because no matter how big, or how small you feel, God still has you here for a reason … so embrace it … take leaps of faith and don’t be fearful of what you COULD become …

Los Angeles!

2008-08-20T15:38:00.000-07:00

It’s been a LONG time since I’ve written …
It’s a whirlwind, but … you take one day at a time …
We traveled to Los Angeles for my sister-in-law’s wedding, which was wonderful!
If you’ve never been, you should check it out someday …
Here are a few photos from the trip …
Will write more soon …
God Bless all!

~Emily

Seeking ...

2008-08-01T17:53:00.000-07:00

It’s not very often that I write poetry anymore …

Perhaps it’s the lack of inspiration …

Or, it just might be that I don’t have the ‘gift’ anymore …

But, I’d like to think those things we’re ‘good at’, we never lose …

It’s not like God gives it to you, and then takes it away …

I think it’s always there … even in dry spells … even in dark days …

Here is a poem I just wrote today … God bless each of you!

Jumping into a sea of confidence…
That is what I seek…
Flying above the vast clouds that fill a beautiful blue sky…
That is what I ask for…
Climbing atop a mountainous terrain…
That is my greatest fear…
Wishing on a star …
That is what gives me hope …
Understanding humanity …
My greatest uncertainty …
Seeking You …
My only comfort …

Instructions for Life

2008-07-23T17:41:00.000-07:00

ONE. Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.

TWO. Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.

THREE. Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.

FOUR. When you say, 'I love you,' mean it.

FIVE. When you say, 'I'm sorry,' look the person in the eye.

SIX. Be engaged at least six months before you get married.

SEVEN. Believe in love at first sight.

EIGHT. Never laugh at anyone's dreams. People who don't have dreams don't have much.

NINE. Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.

TEN. In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling.

ELEVEN. Don't judge people by their relatives.

TWELVE. Talk slowly but think quickly.

THIRTEEN. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, 'Why do you want to know?'

FOURTEEN. Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.

FIFTEEN. Say 'bless you' when you hear someone sneeze.

SIXTEEN. When you lose, don't lose the lesson.

SEVENTEEN. Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect for others; and Responsibility for all your actions.

EIGHTEEN. Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.

NINETEEN. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.

TWENTY. Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice.

TWENTY- ONE. Spend some time alone.

*A true friend is someone who reaches for your hand and touches your heart.*

Caught Off Guard ...

2008-07-18T19:23:00.000-07:00

Ok ... I have no philosophical things to share, but I do want to share this photo of my cocker spaniel Winston ... I caught him a little off guard last weekend, and well, this was the outcome! Smile ... and have a great weekend!

Leave Out All the Rest

2008-07-15T18:55:00.000-07:00

Understanding life’s uncertainties isn’t something I pretend to do …

I guess as I’ve lived my life, understanding that I don’t know all the answers, makes life more spontaneous perhaps … I don’t know … it just seems to me, if you knew all the answers, then life just might be a little dull …

I’ve lived and learned about how people can let you down, yet in the midst of that, forgiveness is on the other end of that disappointment …

Not because I want to forgive so much, but because God interjects my thoughts and helps me realize the power of forgiveness … after all, I’ve done a few stupid things in my day, and in those moments of realization of those not so good choices, I’ve learned the power of mercy and grace …

So how would it look if in the uncertainties and disappointments of life, I choose to hold a grudge; to NOT forgive?

It’s one of those qualms that I’ll never understand … how we can just forgive and forget … yet, there is reassurance in knowing that God can be what we cannot be, and in those moments, we can certainly leave out all the rest …

The Power of a Sacrifice

2008-07-11T18:30:00.000-07:00

May 12th marked the death of a 98 year old lady named Irena.

During WWII, Irena, got permission to work in the Warsaw Ghetto, as a Plumbing/Sewer specialist ...

She had an ulterior motive...

She KNEW what the Nazis plans were for the Jews, (being German).

Irena smuggled infants out in the bottom of her tool box she carried, and she carried in the back of her truck a Burlap sack, (for larger kids).

She also had a dog in the back, that she trained to bark when the Nazi soldiers let her in, and out of the ghetto.

The soldiers of course wanted nothing to do with the dog, and the barking covered the kids/infants noises.

During her time and course of doing this, she managed to smuggle out and save 2500 kids/infants.

She was caught, and the Nazis broke both her legs, and arms, and beat her severely.

Irena kept a record of the names of all the kids she smuggled out, and kept them in a glass jar, buried under a tree in her backyard.

After the war, she tried to locate any parents that may have survived it, and reunited the family. Most of course had been gassed.

Those kids she helped got placed into foster family homes, or adopted.

Last year, Irena was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize ...

She LOST.

Al Gore won, for doing a slide show on Global Warming.

Check out more of her story here: http://www.irenasendler.org/

I wanted to share this story because I thought it was rather incredible how unselfish this woman was ... not only to sacrifice her own life, but to ultimately lay it down for someone else. Hmmm ... it reminds me of another familiar story, that you all might already know ... it's about a man named Jesus, and how he came and died so that we might live ...

Recent Photos ...

2008-07-11T16:30:00.001-07:00

Here are a few recent photos I took ... the first is on a storm-filled night ... the sky was amazingly beautiful, and vast ... it was rather breathtaking ... the next is from a small park near downtown South Bend. The geese there are plentiful, and rather amusing from time-to-time. I snapped this while a grandma, it looks like, and her two grandkids were admiring the beautiful creatures ... the third is a little abstract ... through a park bench in downtown South Bend, near the College Football Hall of Fame ... sometimes, the most awkward of photos can make the most presentable ... ENJOY!

What Would You Do ...

2008-07-10T13:34:00.000-07:00

So, tell me one thing you'd LOVE to do, but are afraid to do because you're fearful of failure?

Poetic Thoughts ...

2008-06-26T19:05:00.000-07:00

I’m amazed at how selfish we can be …
The lack of humility that each of us has …
We pride ourselves on others pain …
Yet, we are hurting ourselves …

I often underestimate the power of a touch …
And, most days, I reminisce of how it used to be …
I miss the days when life was easier …
Yet, I believe the days ahead are going to be the best yet …

It’s a beautiful, crazy, wonderfully complicated place we live …
Beauty surrounds us …
Embrace life … embrace it before you no longer can …

HERO Youth Ambassadors to Embark on Journey of a Lifetime!

2008-06-24T12:15:00.000-07:00

You might remember a few months ago, I wrote a post about the HERO Youth Ambassador Program. If not, you can read it here: http://untitledentityunveiled.blogspot.com/2008/02/become-hero-youth-ambassador.html.

The HERO Youth Ambassadors Program selects a number of teens from across the U.S. and Canada to travel to Africa to work on Protecting Futures, a program by Tampax and Always to help girls stay in school during menstruation.

For more info about the program, check out: http://www.protectingfutures.com/.

I was just informed that the youth ambassadors for 2008 have been chosen!

Among the students chosen, only one Canadian was selected, Natasha Clark, who is a native of Coldstream, BC.

Natasha’s active involvement at school and work with children in her community illustrates her passionate commitment to helping others. She is scheduled to depart on June 27th and is currently working to raise $5,000 to help fund her mission to Africa.

To learn more about Natasha and the other 2008 Youth Ambassadors, or to help support Natasha’s fundraising goal, visit: http://www.heroaction.org/site/c.gpIPKZOAJoG/b.3750887/ to learn more!

It will be a journey of a lifetime in which they will never forget! Support them today!

A Song to Ponder

2008-06-13T18:40:00.000-07:00

I was listening to this awesome song the other day ... not sure if any of you out there have ever heard of Linkin' Park. I can imagine you have ...

Nonetheless, it's a new song, called 'Leave Out All the Rest'; and basically, it talks about leaving all the hurt, pain, the bad behind ... forgetting all the 'stuff' that sometimes, we can take with us to the grave ... we resent sometimes the things that have happened in our past, and sometimes, we don't let go until it's to late ... the song simply 'asks' to leave out all of what we can't change, and remember something good ... not only remembering the good in others, but also in ourselves ... it asks to leave out all the rest, and remember what went right ... it's a powerful message, with forgiveness behind every word ...

Let Love In ...

2008-06-12T15:47:00.000-07:00

If I may be so bold, I’d like to pose a couple of questions to you all, my ‘blog friends’ … they are questions, that perhaps might evoke some emotion, but they’re questions that I’d LOVE to hear your thoughts on … so, here goes:

Why do you think people judge others?
Do we have the right to judge another person?
What ever happened to LOVING someone first?

I must say … I’ve been pondering these questions the past few days … I’ve found that throughout my life, personally, I’ve been a ‘judger’ so to speak … perhaps not so much consciously, but more so because I thought something should be one way and not another … or I thought I was right, while the other person was wrong … when all along, I lacked the capacity to accept that someone else had an opinion! I think this was more in my youth … when I was in middle school, into my freshmen and sophomore year in high school …when I was naive and just ‘learning’ what it all meant to have a relationship with Christ …

However, as I’ve gotten older, my focus has become, not whether someone is right or wrong, but whether they are loved or not … perhaps that sounds a little strange, but, as I’ve learned more about the ‘heart of Christ’, I’ve learned that He just LOVES us, right where we’re at … He loves us even in our darkest days … He loves us when we’re sinning … He even loves us when we turn our backs on Him … and while that breaks my heart, I realize that I lack the way He loves others, many times … I wish I could love like Christ in moments where my anger gets the better of me … or I feel a ‘judgment’ coming into thought about someone … I wish that it was easy to LOVE at all times … but that’s where our human nature interrupts and invades … yet, I pose a challenge to those out there who call themselves ‘lovers of Christ’, including myself … instead of passing judgment on someone FIRST, why don’t you try LOVING them FIRST … Love them like Christ loves them … give them grace and show mercy, just as Christ has done so many times for you and I … it might be something as simple as a smile, or maybe it would require you to take a leap of faith, but do it! Do it today, and just let LOVE in ... when you can be overcome by the love that Christ has for you, you can then become 'in love' with those around you ... even when you don't agree with their lifestyle … even when their sin blinds them … practice LOVE first …

"Don't Quit"

2008-06-06T17:06:00.000-07:00

When things go wrong as they sometimes will;
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill;
When the funds are low, and the debts are high
And you want to smile, but have to sigh;
When care is pressing you down a bit-
Rest if you must, but do not quit.

Success is failure turned inside out;
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt;
And you can never tell how close you are
It may be near when it seems so far;
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit-
It's when things go wrong that you must not quit.

Author Unknown

Sex in the City - The BOND of Friendship

2008-06-02T16:31:00.000-07:00

I don’t know if any of you out there are Sex in the City fans. I never was a fan until I started watching the ‘edited’ versions of the show AFTER they went off the air. It’s not that I wasn’t a fan of the show when it was on air, but it was more that I didn’t have access to it! It was an HBO commodity, which I wasn’t privileged to have access to. Ah well …

Nevertheless, as I’m sure you already know, the ‘big screen’ version of the show came out this past weekend, and I was ecstatic to see it. Perhaps you’re frowning at the mention of the show, or, you’re an enthusiast like myself, but I was asked by a friend the other day, why I like the show so much.

There are many misconceptions about the show and while some just might be true, there are quite a few positive aspects to it as well.

Carrie, Miranda, Samantha and Charlotte, are much more than fashionistas. Sure, they live lives that many of us could only dream of, but they also carry something much deeper than the materialism that surrounds them in the ‘Big City’: the bond of friendship. The show, and the film, showcases the friendship of women, and the struggles they share. They’re devoted to each other, through the ups and downs that life so many times, brings to each of us. They’ll fly across the country for a friend in need, and not only do they rejoice in one another’s victories, but they also share in the sorrow and disappointments of life.

They forgive and forget, love when it hurts, and encourage the beauty in each other, even in their most dire moments.

So, a fan or not, the bond of friendship these four women share, sure is something to hope for, if not fight for!

"No matter who broke your heart, or how long it takes to heal, you'll never get through it without your friends.”

“Maybe our girlfriends are our soul mates and guys are just people to have fun with.”

Alive Day ...

2008-05-29T18:11:00.000-07:00

In a war that has left more than 25,000 wounded, ALIVE DAY MEMORIES: HOME FROM IRAQ looks at a new generation of veterans. Executive Producer James Gandolfini interviews 10 Soldiers and Marines who reveal their feelings on their future, their severe disabilities and their devotion to America. The documentary surveys the physical and emotional cost of war through memories of their ‘Alive Day’; the day they narrowly escaped death in Iraq.

Please, check it out ... it's one of the most powerful depictions of the affects of this 'War on Terror' that I've ever seen: http://www.hbo.com/aliveday/.

Whether you believe in this war or not, the men and women who are fighting it deserve our respect … they deserve honor … and most of all, they deserve our support and gratitude for fighting for the freedom we ALL take advantage of …

Watch it and be changed …

This is Marine Staff Sgt. John Jones; he is a double amputee below the knees, had shrapnel in parts of his thighs and wrists, some memory and hearing loss, and suffers from post traumatic stress disorder. However, he remains optimistic. "I hope to be a positive influence for others and to set an example for those that have given up hope."

In the Backyard ...

2008-05-20T13:53:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple more photos for you! These were taken in my sister Melissa's backyard! It's rather beautiful what you can capture! Enjoy! (P.S. Thank you for all the wonderful comments and for continuing to visit my blog! It means so much! God Bless you all!)

Here we go again ... Dreaming!

2008-05-14T10:57:00.001-07:00

An idea? Hmm … what is it really? Is it only a thought? Personally, I think 'raw ideas' are essentially, dreams that are resurfacing ... it's kinda' like when in our youth, we have these profound ideas, an epiphany if you will, of our lives when we are ‘all grown up’. We dream big when we are younger … when we have NO idea whatsoever of what it will take to make that dream come true … yet, as we get older and life complicates things, those ‘dreams’ or ‘epiphanies’ seem to resurface because someway, somehow, they make life worth living … they make mornings worth waking up to … and they surely make for something to fight for … to hope for … so come on already! Start dreaming again! Who knows … that ‘idea’ could just turn into what you’ve always ‘dreamed’ for …

My New Hobby ... Part Two ...

2008-05-13T13:54:00.000-07:00

Iowa Countryside
(Iowa is a rather lovely, beautiful place! The hills and landscape are just amazing!)

Bridge in Cincinnati
(This bridge suspends over the Ohio River and sits right across the Great American Ballpark, where the Cincinnati Reds play.)

The Lighthouse - St. Joseph, Michigan - Silver Beach
(There is no place like the beautiful beach on a sunny day. This was taken on a trip with my mom to Silver Beach. It was beautiful and the Lighthouse was the main attraction!)

Somewhere Only We Know

2008-05-07T17:34:00.000-07:00

It’s a common occurrence to become saddened by what goes on in the world around us … there is so much shizit (this is a word I like to use from time-to-time to refrain from saying the other, which I’m sure you can pinpoint) … and well, sometimes, it gets a little overwhelming to take in …

I like to go to a place of solitude and placate in those times … as I imagine it, it’s a place of beautiful things … there is an abundance of sunshine, and the people within my little world, are happy… at least for a moment in time … I guess I like to think it’s just a little taste of Heaven …

Unfortunately, the painstaking reality is, the world waits on the other side of it … I don’t understand the heartlessness of people, but at times, in those moments, I do understand and see the beauty in all of us … compassion usually surfaces in many desolate times, which helps to accept the reality we live in …

But … it’s nice to think that we can escape to a place where we only know … a place where we can be silent, where grace and mercy are in abundance … where there is no pain or loneliness, and for a moment, we see that life truly can be magical …

Just a Little Lonely ...

2008-04-30T16:46:00.000-07:00

I’m amazed at people’s loneliness. If you look close enough, you can catch the signs of it …
Sometimes it’s in the subtle words they say … sometimes it’s in the emotionless stares … and sometimes it’s in obvious body language …

Sometimes, as 'Christians', and I use that term loosely, we THINK that we should have it all together, because the world tells us that we should … but deep down, and in 'reality', we are just like the drug addict, looking for their next fix, the lonely soul, who just wishes to be anywhere but in the place they’re at, and the uncertain recluse, just wishing for answers …

Unfortunately, I think loneliness is a prerequisite of life … it’s inevitable, but it’s required … when loneliness DOES happen to creep in, I think WE ALL just want that connection with SOMETHING … As a woman who loves Jesus, I am reminded in those moments that He is right there, by my side … but … I think we can crave for something tangible, so badly, that our emotions overcome us, and we look at ourselves as inadequate? Perhaps this comes from the fact that we TOO, along with the person who doesn’t know about Jesus, can’t say, ‘I’m not lonely anymore because I DO have Jesus’.

The reality is, it sure would be nice to know that SOMEONE is there … faith is a little tough in those moments because what we can’t see, is not what we need … we need that gentle touch from SOMEONE who cares … and, even with that, the amazing part about it all, is that God still loves us, right in the midst of our feeling of loneliness, inadequacy, self-doubt, and perhaps, our feeling of un-reliance on God to get us through …

Honestly, I think everybody needs a little love, to make it all work out … so LOVE someone … you never know … you could just ‘break’ them of their loneliness in that specific moment in time … and in return, when you’re feeling a little down and out, someone just might reach out … a little further, and LOVE you right back …

A New Hobby ...

2008-04-26T13:32:00.000-07:00

I've recently taken up a new hobby: photography! Here are a few photos of one of the greatest cities in the U.S. ... Chicago! Be Blessed all ...

A Poem ...

2008-04-21T12:34:00.000-07:00

This poem was written by the one and only, Erin Elliott, my little sister ... I thought it was TOO excellent not to share! Perhaps you might find it rather solemn, as did I, but please know, this was a pivotal and changing moment in her life ... one that I feel, has brought this beautiful piece of prose for all to enjoy!

Hope you like it!

Untitled
It’s been a short day.
Hot & unforgiving.
My head aches.
& i can’t tell if I'm
still high or just tired.
The summer night
is taking over.
And the sun
is far from us now.
The sound of beats
are filling my ears.
& those dreams come
back to taunt me.
Segments of my life,
I’ve totally forgotten.

& this chair does not
make matters any better.
worn ragged material,
hating my skin.

Is it 'People Pleasing'?

2008-04-16T14:44:00.000-07:00

Ok, so there is this thing about me that I hate…I take things so personal sometimes. I take things to heart, so much that it hurts my insides…do you know what I’m talking about???

…anyway, the thing about that is, I hate that I feel like that. It’s like I have no control over how people respond to me, or treat me, so most of the time, I take their frustrations or confusion, and point the blame at myself because I don’t want them to be upset…

…I don’t want them to feel pain, sorrow or uncertainty, so it’s like this innate thing inside me that says, ‘feel it for them’.

Now I don’t know if you would consider that a ‘People Pleaser’, which can be such a harsh label that people throw around, but I do wish to work on this attribute that I so wish I did NOT have…

People…beautiful, yet so amazingly uncertain…

A REAL Change

2008-04-14T13:44:00.000-07:00

I often think about the idea of change. I think it’s something that we all want, yet we’re so hesitant to reach out for it … we resist it almost because we are afraid of what is on the other side of it …

There are so many opportunities that are right in front of us, if we only knew how to ‘touch them’ … as we walk and wonder … as we reach and wish … what is it that keeps us never reaching out for more? What is it inside of us that resists an open door to something new? What is it for you? Do you resist change? Why?

For me … I think it’s failure … a little fear perhaps … not knowing what to expect, I suppose … yet I’m profoundly amazed by the idea of ‘change’ … in MANY different capacities … I often think that triumph and change can be intertwined together … because after all, change can bring out the BEST in us … and ultimately, it can send us on a path of discovery … ‘change’ can help us overcome something that we never thought was possible to conquer … have you found this to be true for you?

As this life continues to race at an ever so rapid pace … I’ve found that life matters most when we choose to accept the changes that come with it … we can choose to embrace them … or resist them, and simply, stay the same … yet the opportunities that exist, if we choose to see them, can open up a door of endless possibilities …

I read this quote the other day … “We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations”. Sure, impossible they might seem at first, but glaring at them … head on … will only make them what they were always meant to become … REAL! And from that ... 'change' is ONLY the beginning ...

Become a Five Star Coach!

2008-04-07T13:05:00.001-07:00

There are moments in life that change us ... some of those moments can change us for the better, while others can lead us down a road of destruction. More than ever, kids these days are looking for that 'moment' ... the moment when their lives can change and they can look toward a positive future ...

Five Star is a program unlike any other, where young people can be themselves, and learn about the road to excellence, in EVERY aspect of their lives ... It's a positive environment where kids can have some fun and learn a few important lessons on life as well ... It's a place where kids can build relationships, not only with each other, but with their coach ... It's a place where they learn about important values like integrity, responsibility, excellence, service, and living to reach their dreams, no matter how big or small ...

So, what do you think? Is it something YOU could see yourself being a part of? I can tell you from personal experience that it's some of the most fun, and rewarding times that I've ever had. It not only will change the kids lives, but it just might change yours as well!

If you want to learn more, just visit FiveStarLife.org or send me an email.

Inspire a champion ... and change a life!

What Is It?

2008-04-04T10:52:00.000-07:00

I read something the other day that made me think about a few things ... it made me think about life and the latter, but made me address questions that I hadn't addressed for a long time ... I thought I might share it ...

What keeps you awake at night?
What gets you up in the morning?
How do you inspire others?
What’s your greatest hope for the future?
What is your biggest fear?
What are you working on right now?
Who would play you in the film of your life?
When are you happiest?
For which cause would you die?

So, WHAT IS IT for you?

Moments

2008-04-02T16:07:00.000-07:00

Moments pass us by … without a glance, without a notice …

They creep, they crawl, they unearth our inhibitions … Perhaps to be noticed, or maybe just to get our attention …

Whatever the reason, they bring life to us … they give us meaning … and somehow, they give us hope for yet another day …

Stop … Look … Cherish … those moments, whatever they are … because whatever they might be, they’re worth noticing …

... Just a Few Thoughts ...

2008-03-29T13:07:00.000-07:00

I like to see people overcome obstacles in their lives. I like to see them challenge themselves and ultimately triumph …

I like a fantasy world, where there are mystical creatures; fairytales that come true, dreams that envelope a reality within a character…

I love places like Paris and London; places I’ve never seen before in real life; places that are beautiful because my imagination has painted a picture of them…

I love to do new things and experience new adventures, because after all, that’s what life is worth living for …

BREAK Already!

2008-03-25T18:32:00.000-07:00

I love to write … it’s this innate passion in me … I can’t seem to remember, even when I was a kid, when I wasn’t writing. I mean, let’s be serious here … I haven’t made a career out of it, but I still love it …the thing of it is though … I’m at a loss of what to write about these days … I love the moments in time that have become inspiration for me, yet I’ve found as I’ve gotten older that inspiration is scarce … not sure why … maybe it’s a season in my life at present … whatever it is though … I want it to BREAK …

Stop and Stare...

2008-03-21T17:22:00.000-07:00

I often think that life can sometimes pass me by … I spend so much time focusing on the things that I can’t do, than focusing on the things that are right in front of me … I’m not entirely sure why that is …

I think it just might be my undervaluing attitude … I get like that from time-to-time when I feel like I just might not be doing enough … or, when I fear ‘success’ for me has come and gone … I read this quote once and I have to wholeheartedly agree … it says, “...too many people overvalue what they are not and undervalue what they are …”

I say it so often that you should just be happy being yourself, yet I struggle with that daily. I wish sometimes that I could see where I’m at and look back from where I was and then realize that life has kept moving forward … life and the world have kept spinning round, at a rapid pace, yet I’ve just been stopping and staring at the ‘failures’ without even taking a glance at the successes …

Hmmm … I just don’t understand the thought process … I digress ….

Beauty in the Broken

2008-03-12T07:33:00.000-07:00

There is beauty in the brokenness of someone ...

Sure, that might sound a bit morose, morbid … yet in that brokenness, in that despair something is realized … the admittance that they are in fact ‘out of order’ and need help ...

… the walls are broken and restoration can come … the healing process can begin …

Lost in Translation

2008-03-05T15:55:00.000-08:00

You know, I’ve often thought that being myself would be easy…but have you found that sometimes who you are isn’t really who you are? I think so often we forget in translation…like the film, ‘Lost in Translation’; we lose it when life interrupts…when failure and insecurity creeps in…we lose a sense of ‘us’; who we REALLY are…we translate success and opportunity to what the world portrays that to be, when in reality, success is much more than what we have or what we do…it’s who we are and never losing that sense of ‘us’…

Sometimes it’s tough being ‘YOU’; but the truth is ‘YOU’ are exactly who you need to be and it really doesn’t matter what ANYONE else thinks…

eHow...What Would YOU Like to Know?

2008-03-03T13:14:00.000-08:00

So, I was asked to write a few articles for eHow.com. Don't know if you've ever heard of it, but it's basically a website where people write about what they know.

So, with that said, if you were going to a site like this, what would YOU be looking for? Any ideas on what you'd like to know how to do?

Any feedback/ideas are MOST appreciated!

What's Holding YOU Back?

2008-02-28T18:47:00.000-08:00

Just a thought for today...

Is there was one thing that you've always wanted to do, that you haven't done yet, because something is holding you back?

I talk about fear a lot, but what if we pushed that aside and conquered the very thing we never thought we could?

Here is something to chew on, and maybe could be a start to accomplish that 'thing': Do something EVERYDAY that scares you...

TRUE Friends...

2008-02-22T18:39:00.000-08:00

Trustworthy, honest, and TRUE friends are hard to come by in this day and age. Most people either don't take the time to BE a friend, or don't wish to make friends because they are afraid of being hurt.

TRUE friends can be vulnerable with each other; they can be open and understanding...they can brighten your day, even when it's your worst. They care because they want to care, not because they have to. TRUE friends give, when the rest of the world takes.

One TRUE friend is better than having 50 acquaintances.

Hold onto your TRUE friends...respect, cherish, love them...

Leaps of Faith

2008-02-19T17:18:00.001-08:00

Everyone gets scared…we all have inhibitions that keep us from something…maybe it’s fear, maybe it’s past failure, perhaps it’s someone...

Not sure what it is for you, but for me it’s failure…it’s rejection…it’s uncertainty at times as well…when I’m about to embark on a new journey, I find myself thinking that I just might not make it because of my inadequacies…I might just not make it because I fear that I can’t…I fear that all of my efforts, all of my ‘tries’ are just not good enough…

But then something happens; something that I’m unaware of…something that I know is the voice and touch of what I can’t see…it often surprises me…and opens my eyes to understand the step that is in front of me…it helps me to make leaps of faith that I never thought were possible…I’m reminded in those moments that I can do ANYTHING through the One who created me…

Be confident and know that all good things will indeed, come to pass…and that you can become the person you always KNEW you could be…and leave fear in the dust behind you…

My Mom...the Writer...

2008-02-18T16:46:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! Check out my mom's new blog! She just began her blogging debut a few days ago, so check it out! Just CLICK HERE to read! Thanks guys! ~Emily

Ahhh...the 80s...

2008-02-13T14:49:00.000-08:00

I LOVE the 80s. If you haven’t come across my adoration for that decade, I’ll give you a few reasons…

Number One:
The Movies! Films like the Karate Kid, Back to the Future, The Breakfast Club, Pretty in Pink, Weird Science, Stand by Me, the Goonies, Footloose…ok, I could go on forever! I’m not entirely sure why I LOVE the films so much in this decade, but I think it has to do with the sincerity in them. Sure, some of them are for fun, but movies like The Breakfast Club and the Karate Kid, helped us believe that maybe, we could conquer what struggles we experienced in our youth. The Karate Kid conquered his fear of the fight, where in The Breakfast Club, five teens found their way and understanding of those different from them…

Number Two:
The Music! Singers like Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, and groups like Tears for Fears and Erasure…each had their own way of expressing themselves and gave us all a glimpse of what was to come…

Number Three:
The Clothes! Whether it was tight-rolled jeans or leg warmers, a ‘sense of style’ was born when the 80s rolled around. It was ‘vintage’ at its best!

I could go on forever about this WONDERFUL decade…but I’ll spare you if you’re NOT a fan! Nonetheless, take some time out in the next few weekends, rent a few films from the 80s, grab a CD or tape cassette of your favorite rockers from that time, and enjoy the sincerity of the greatest decade yet!

Become a HERO Youth Ambassador!

2008-02-12T14:00:00.000-08:00

I was recently contacted by a member of the HERO Youth Ambassador program. The program was developed to provide comprehensive school-based support to orphans and vulnerable children living in HIV/AIDS-affected African communities.

Now, HERO is looking for 20 students (ages 16-19) from across the US and Canada to be selected as 2008 HERO Youth Ambassadors. Students chosen will travel to Africa in 2008. The deadline to apply is March 1st, 2008. If you know of a young person who is interested, feel free to pass this information along. Click the links below to find out more info!

You can learn more about this program here:

http://www.beinggirl.com/en_US/heroes/hero_landing.jsp

You can also check out some of the Youth Ambassador’s personal experiences in a series of webisodes here:

http://www.youtube.com/BeinggirlHERO

If you're NOT interested in applying for the program, get involved anyway! Click the link below to find out more!

http://www.beinggirl.com/en_US/heroes/Get_Involved.jsp

The Road Not Taken

2008-02-11T18:36:00.000-08:00

When I was a little girl, I often thought about the GREAT things that I wanted to do. For so long in my youth, I wanted to GET OUT of South Bend; I always thought that this place had nothing for me. I wanted to move into a BIG CITY somewhere, anywhere…anyplace but here…

However, as I’ve grown up, gotten married, finished college, and began my pursuit for these ‘GREAT’ things, the focus has somewhat shifted…the ‘GREAT’ has taken on a new form…I am reminded that sometimes, the little things are what matter most. Sure, being in the spotlight might be appealing to many, because really, we just want someone to notice; notice what we do and NOT take it for granted…but deep down, I think we all want to have made an impact on someone…to say someone else’s life is better because we took the time to LOVE them…

I believe that no matter where we're at...whether in a BIG CITY, in a small town, or in South Bend, LOVING someone is the key to being 'GREAT'...even when sometimes, you're the ONLY one who knows it...

The following is Robert Frost’s poem, ‘The Road Not Taken’; maybe you’ve read it, maybe not, but I must say, the words are poignant and give the sense that the ‘road less traveled’ does indeed, ‘make all the difference’! Believe in miracles...

TWO roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

'People'...they are Amazing Creatures!

2008-02-05T17:28:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the LONG pause in posts...it's been extremely busy with work...life...you guys know the routine!

Anyway, just a thought I had today...

It's rather amazing to me how 'alone' people appear, how transparent they are. Maybe, they are just as unsure as I am or perhaps, they are afraid of connection. It’s a bit hard to read people at times, bit it also is so relevant, vibrant, and revolutionary when you do...

Melt ME Away...

2008-01-28T18:15:00.000-08:00

Take my heart, take EVERYTHING that is NOT of You away...

Melt my doubts away, give me strength to withstand the day...

Help me to understand Your ways, Your undeniable love for me, Your dreams for me alone...

I Have a Dream...

2008-01-21T19:03:00.000-08:00

You probably know what today represents; what it STANDS for…it’s so much more than a day OFF work, or a day AWAY from school…it’s a celebration of a man that decided to be IN this world and make a difference…

It’s amazing what Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. did so many years ago. He was a man of action, a man of character, a man that changed humanity.

How lucky we are to know about this man, who changed the course of history; who changed the outlook for so many people in his time...

His words and his actions still speak volumes today, as we are reminded of what he gave each of us...

…Dr. King choose to ACT instead of SIT back and do nothing…he stood LOUD and PROUD for the dream, that one day, WE ALL could stand together, join hands, and work and 'be' as one...

Remember this man of GREATNESS…

...and most importantly, REMEMBER his DREAM:

"… I say to you today, my friends, so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal.'

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of interposition and nullification; one day right there in Alabama, little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.

I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.

This is our hope. This is the faith that I go back to the South with. With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

This will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with a new meaning, 'My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim's pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring.'

And if America is to be a great nation this must become true. So let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire.

Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York.

Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania!

Let freedom ring from the snowcapped Rockies of Colorado!

Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California!

But not only that; let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia!

Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee!

Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi. From every mountainside, let freedom ring.

And when this happens, when we allow freedom to ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, 'Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!'"

Just To Be Noticed...

2008-01-18T09:47:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I like to watch people. I like to watch them walk down the street; I like to watch them as I sit for a cup of coffee at the local Starbucks; I like to watch them when they think no one is watching them. We are amazing creatures and I am reminded of that each time I look at someone.

When you go to a big city, there are a LOT of blank stares; people brush past you, you brush past people. There always seems to be a destination in sight, with no bother to look to the left or right; it’s just straight ahead…

Well…this is just a thought…what if the next time you were in a Big City, or…in the heart of the city you live within, and you DO look to the right and left…with a smile. The thing is…you NEVER know what that could do for someone…you never know what YOU paying attention to someone else could do…not only for them…but for YOU as well.

A good friend of mine recently went to England for vacation. When he returned, he told us of story that I’ve thought about A LOT; Please CLICK HERE to read it.

It basically tells the story of a young girl; a girl who wanted someone to KILL HER. She was so desperate, so distraught from SOMETHING in her life that she asked someone to take her life. It’s a rather heart-wrenching story because the person that she asked this question told her to ‘Piss Off’. After that desperate attempt, and yet another rejection, she jumped from a bridge, ending her life. I don’t understand it…I don’t understand how someone could be so callous and NOT try and ask this young woman what he might be able to do to help her in such a dire moment in her life.

I suppose there are many stories out there just like this one; stories of desperate people taking desperate measures, JUST to be noticed.

So...maybe watching people isn't your thing...but the next time you decide to look straight ahead...your destination the ONLY thought in your mind...PLEASE notice someone…

Ah...hogwash!

2008-01-15T14:30:00.001-08:00

So I haven’t written for awhile. Perhaps it’s lack of something meaningful to write about; or, the fact that I’m trying to do more creative writing. I would really like to enter more writing contests. Not sure why…just a desire to write something...something more than just my meaningless thoughts…

…to be continued…

Believing For Change...

2008-01-07T19:30:00.000-08:00

I often think that I’m pretty naive when it comes to the matters of the world. Not because I don’t believe they exist, but because I want to believe that they can change…

Discrimination and hatred towards others is probably the biggest naivety on my part. I want so much to believe that we ALL can get along…we all can make this world a better place, together…but I’ve come to learn that our differences are sometimes looked at as negative…I don’t by this!

I believe we all are unique and beautiful in our own way…we ALL have something to offer this world…we ALL have something to offer to someone else…so, why is it so difficult to accept those differences that make us so unique and beautiful in the first place?

I recently saw an incredible film that truly depicts a pivotal moment in history, but also overcoming adversity in the midst of change.

The year was 1935; the place was Marshall, Texas at a little college called Wiley; the innovator was a man by the name of Professor Melvin B. Tolson…

Tolson was a man of great character, a man of action. During such a volatile time in the depths of the Deep South, as you can imagine, he choose to make changes, look past the differences in others, and unified not only a group of young people, but an entire community.

His story is now a major motion picture called ‘The Great Debaters’.

The film revolves around the efforts of Tolson at historically black Wiley College. His intent was to place his Debate Team on equal footing with whites in the Deep South, but he did so much more than that…he brought together four young college students and taught them the power and authority of words. He gave them the tools to make a voice for themselves in a world that didn’t except them because of the color of their skin.

As I sat and watched this film, I thought about our society today and sadly, how much hasn’t changed in regards to acceptance towards ALL people. Yet, I think about what Tolson did, what these four young debaters did, and I believe that we can make a difference if we fight for it.

The story of ‘The Great Debaters’ is a powerful one, a remarkable tale that speaks great volumes of the perseverance and fortitude of someone who wants to change the norm…

So...addressing the present day...if we want to see change, we must ACT for change...we must first accept those who might be different from us and see them for the beautiful creations that they are...that we ALL are...

...perhaps then, being a little naive, isn't such a bad thing? After all...believing in change is perhaps the only thing that keeps me optimistic that in fact, change is even possible at all...

The Pages of Life...

2008-01-04T15:07:00.000-08:00

So I’ve learned there are many things in life that you just CANNOT control. Perhaps you think that’s a good thing; perhaps not. But I think that we all want to have a little ‘surprise’, maybe a little ‘spontaneity’ in our lives. It keeps us guessing…and believing for that next GREAT thing…

I don’t think life has to be ALL planned out…what do you think?

I believe that God intended for us all to make choices, sometimes good and bad, to learn something. Whatever that something might be…LIFE LESSONS are what keep us moving…they give us hope and help us understand the ‘tomorrows’…those lessons help prepare us for whatever it is our future holds.

I guess we could ALL consider ourselves as authors; we’re writing the book of our lives and it’s a daily process. We write the day as the day goes…then, after the day ends, our pens are put away and we prepare for the next page…without ANY expectations, but hope that we will somehow, some way, make a difference…

Make the pages of your life matter...make them a story that MUST be read...because sometimes, things JUST happen and maybe, that's JUST the way God intended!

A Thought for the New Year...

2007-12-31T13:37:00.001-08:00

In the words of the GREAT Winston Churchill...

Happy New Year everyone! Be diligent in your dreams, and steadfast in TRUTH...Be blessed...

Love Someone to God...

2007-12-27T13:33:00.000-08:00

I’ve often thought that to SHOW love, we first have to BE love. Let me explain…

You’ve probably heard the saying, ‘Actions speak louder than words’; but do people really ‘act’? Do people really understand what it truly means to LOVE people first?

My friend Dave has come up with this profound revelation: ‘LOVE SOMEONE TO GOD’; a magnificent thought; perhaps absurd, but isn’t that what Jesus did? When He came to this earth, His whole purpose was to show the love of God; show the love of his Father, who choose, to send His ONLY son to this earth to die for us. He knew that his son’s fate was inevitable; He knew His ONLY son would have a dire death, but He still sent Him anyway; and Jesus accepted this destiny because He loved us that much, without even knowing us. What love? What grace and forgiveness? I’m baffled by this over and over again…

I often think that the least we can do is LOVE people without any conditions…because again, isn’t that what Jesus did all along? He didn’t even know us, but He died for us anyway…he LOVED us first…

Sometimes, words spoken from our mouths are needed; however, what a thought to LOVE SOMEONE TO GOD without saying a word…think about it…

Does it Matter?

2007-12-24T13:37:00.000-08:00

I recently read a profound excerpt in a book called Balcony People; it's written anonymously, but I think, it could register with EVERYONE...because sometimes, what EVERYONE needs, is someone…

I was hungry and you formed a humanities club to discuss my hunger.
Thank you.

I was imprisoned and you crept off quietly to your chapel to pray for my release.
Nice.

I was naked and in your mind you debated the morality of my appearance.
What good did that do?

I was sick and you knelt and thanked God for your health.
But I needed you.

I was homeless and you preached to me of the shelter of the love of God.
I wish you'd taken me home.

I was lonely and you left me alone to pray for me.
Why didn't you stay?

You seem so holy, so close to God; but I am still very hungry, lonely, cold, and still in pain.
Does it matter?

-Anonymous

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-21T13:35:00.001-08:00

Make a free ecard - it's easy!

Time After Time...

2007-12-19T15:15:00.000-08:00

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about time. It passes so fast, sometimes without us…We look to the right, then the left and realize that another minute has gone by, another day has gone by, another year has gone; another moment has passed right in front of us, without even a blink…

I’ve had to learn in recent months to stop, take a breath, look around me and stand in wonder of the blessings in my life; my husband of almost eight years, who makes me happy in so many ways…my three sisters, which bring joy and laughter like no one else…my ‘married-into’ family, who I couldn’t ask for a better family to become a part of…and my best friends…you know who you are…which I wouldn’t be the same without you…

We run so fast, move so fast that we forget to stop and take a breather…stop and gaze upon a vast blue sky, or stare at ominous clouds that beckon our attention…

So, for me, I’d like to say that I am going to take more time and enjoy those blessings…those things that ‘time’ sometimes, strips away from us…

LIFE is like a box of chocolates...

2007-12-17T11:40:00.000-08:00

Maybe LIFE is like a box of chocolates! You really never know what you’re going to get…

I think though…that’s the beauty of LIFE…that’s the beauty of another day!

Just a thought for the day...

Meant for Greatness?

2007-12-11T14:38:00.000-08:00

Are we all meant for greatness? If you think about infamous people from the Bible: Moses, Noah; they were destined to do what they did. They didn’t ask for it, but they were chosen and they said ‘yes’ to what God had for them.

I’m a big film watcher. I get a LOT out of watching what directors and actors put on the Big Screen. Much like music, I believe there is a message...whatever that message may be, good or bad.

I recently watched an AWESOME film called Amazing Grace. It is about William Wilberforce, (24 August 1759–29 July 1833) the man who ended the British Free Slave Trade. He stood by this cause for the majority of his life, through his younger years, and finally, saw it abolished after 20 years of fighting for it. He never un-wavered, never gave in, and most importantly, never gave up.

God found him, chose him, and he answered. Just like Moses and Noah, he chose to walk in the destiny that God had laid out for him.

After watching this film, it got me thinking…are we ALL destined for greatness? Perhaps it’s not on the scale of William Wilberforce, but what if it was? What if God had the same idea for each of us? I think in our culture today, it seems so unfeasible to make a difference…just ONE person? But really...why not? We all are here for SOME reason...so why not let that reason be to CHANGE the world?

Lessons from the 80's...

2007-12-09T19:56:00.000-08:00

Have you ever seen The Breakfast Club? It follows five teens during a day of detention. They each come into the day not understanding each other, but by the end of it, learn that they really are alike in many of the ways they believed they were different.

“Dear Mr. Vernon, we accept the fact that we had to sacrifice a whole Saturday in detention for whatever it was we did wrong. But we think you're crazy to make an essay telling you who we think we are. You see us, as you want to see us...In the simplest terms, in the most convenient definitions. But what we found out is that each one of us is a brain...and an athlete...and a basket case...a princess...and a criminal...Does that answer your question?”

Hmmm...what if we all saw ourselves as the very thing we think we're not? Then perhaps, just maybe, we might be able to walk in someone else's shoes...the shoes that maybe we never thought we'd wear???

The Golden Controversy?

2007-12-03T15:31:00.000-08:00

So perhaps you’ve heard of the new film, ‘The Golden Compass’; it’s based on the novel written by Philip Pullman. Some scholars and religious leaders alike indicate this film promotes an anti-religion agenda.

I’ve only done a little reading about the film and the controversy it’s causing. Therefore, I’m not one to judge what it represents or what it does NOT represent. I suppose we all have to make a judgment of our own.

An article I recently read, from CNN.com, provides some insight about the film, the author of the controversial book, and some of the contentious content from the film adaptation.

CLICK HER E to read the FULL article.

Some of the basic points of the article include the fact that some religious organizations are unhappy with "The Golden Compass" because of its apparent ‘message’. The article also reveals more about the author, who is accused of "anti-God beliefs". The piece also takes account of other organizations that are supportive of the film, including one Catholic group.

Another interesting article about the film, from the Chicago Sun Times gives some insight on one of the film’s stars, Nicole Kidman, but also discloses more information about the debate surrounding the release of the film.

In a recent interview with the Sun-Times, Philip Pullman, the author of The Golden Compass, responded to criticisms, stating: "I don't think that these people who criticize me, who accuse me of being evil, have actually read the books. An honest reading of the novels would have to accept that the values they celebrate are love, kindness, compassion, tolerance and open-mindedness; the values criticized are cruelty, cold-heartedness, intolerance and so on. I think the morality of the books is absolutely secure."

CLICK HERE to read the FULL article.

So, the question is, is this film, is this book really promoting atheism among children? Again, I’ve never read the books nor have I viewed the film, but I do think there is a statement being made by both. A statement of good and evil…personally, I believe this film promotes beliefs and sentiments, that for me, personally, I do NOT believe in. However, in recent readings, I understand Pullman’s take on ‘religion’. Many do things in the name of ‘religion’, whatever ‘religion’ that may be, that are good and bad. They kill, they harm, they steal; and for what? These are very questions that ANY person, whether they are ‘religious’ or not, ask themselves…

In NO WAY am I promoting this film. To be honest, I’m probably far from that. However, with all the controversy that is lingering about it, I wanted to learn more about if for myself; why Pullman wrote the book in the first place, and the book’s draw of a film producer to make it into a movie.

So maybe you don’t agree with this film; maybe you will boycott it like many. But remember, you are the voice of reason when it comes to YOU, your children, if you have them. If anything, this film will shake up beliefs, not for the sake of shaking up beliefs, but because perhaps, they need to be shaken up a bit...

(A little about the film can be found by CLICKING HERE. It tells the story of the main character and more about the plot itself.)

CRASH...

2007-11-29T18:10:00.000-08:00

Have you ever seen the movie Crash? It’s one of those films that shake your senses, your beliefs, and really makes you stop and think about who you really are…

“Its’ the sense of touch, life, any real city you walk in, you brush past people, you bump into people…they bump into you…In L.A. no one sees anyone; we’re always behind this metal and glass; I think we miss that touch so much that we crash into each other just to feel something…”

It causes you to question your understanding of those who are different than you, those who are NOT like you, not like me…it perhaps, reinforces stereotypes, but also defies them, which I think, is the point…

"Moving at the speed of life, we are bound to collide with each other." We collide because we need to…sometimes, those collisions bring out the best in us, while other times, they bring out the worst. They cause us to think about not only ourselves, but also those around us, moving just as fast as we are…

…We all want someone to love us; we all want someone to care enough to stop and take a moment and meet us where we’re at…

It's a 'crash' that perhaps we all need from time to time...

Unbreakable...

2007-11-27T14:31:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I wonder about the very nature of why we exist. We often underestimate the power that we have over ourselves, and ultimately over each other. It’s a rather unique phenomenon; how we limit ourselves…perhaps that’s what we are taught? In America, we have extreme expectations…overpowering expectations…it’s quite unbelievable, the limitations we place on each other and mostly, ourselves.

The unbelievable…perhaps it’s not so implausible to achieve the very thing that you thought you never could…BECOME UNBREAKABLE…and start to DREAM again…NEVER underestimate the power of YOU…

...Thankful...

2007-11-21T16:32:00.000-08:00

During this time of ‘Thanksgiving’, I’m reminded of how much I have; how much I have been blessed to receive.

I know this is so simple, but so many times we focus on the things we DON’T have, that we forget about the things that we’ve been incredibly blessed to be given.

So, again, as simple as it may sound, take a break from the chaos around you, and be thankful for LIFE…

A Success ...

2007-11-19T15:16:00.000-08:00

"Try not to be a man of success, but rather a man of value." ~Albert Einstein

Been thinking a lot about success lately…how does one measure the success of another? Is it in the job or position they hold? Is it in the material possessions that they have? Is it the designer clothes that they wear?

I’d like to think that success is so much more than those things…it’s not about the things we have, the things we consume…it’s about the moments in LIFE that somehow, make LIFE livable…and without them, LIFE wouldn’t be complete.

I don’t know what those moments are for you, but for me it’s meeting my husband, marrying him and beginning a life together…it’s spending time with my sisters, whom I cherish more than anything…it's the time spent with my mom and dad, which without them, I wouldn’t be the woman I am today…and perhaps, another moment will emerge in the future, of raising a child to become whatever it is they are born dreaming about…

I believe success isn’t in the material things, but the moments that breathe LIFE into us…

Constant...

2007-11-17T14:05:00.000-08:00

Sometimes things can be so complicated. You think, you ponder, you wonder and wish…it gets so overwhelming at times…

It’s just not as easy as it seems…LIFE, just isn’t as easy and ROSY as sometimes people portray. I don’t know why feeling like this is relevant, I just know that sometimes, LIFE is LIFE, no matter how you look at it.

Jesus is amazing however…in those moments when you are in a rut, it’s comforting to know that He is right there with you, right by your side, going through the wondering, pondering, and wishing, that sometimes is a constant. I suppose that’s the amazing part about it. Jesus is the ONE constant that WE ALL can count on, even if our thoughts and LIFE consume us...

A Thought...

2007-11-14T18:54:00.001-08:00

I’ve often thought that being a servant takes more than just DOING something for someone else. It’s about the attitude that you have when doing it…

Just a thought for today….

ALIVE...

2007-11-07T13:38:00.000-08:00

I recently began working with middle school students through a program called Five Star. It’s a fairly new program, about four years old this year. (Check it out http://www.fivestarlife.org/)

The essence of the program is providing kids with an after-school option, rather than mindless video games or getting into trouble.

There are five basic principles that we will touch on throughout the three-season program. Dream, Excellence, Integrity, Responsibility, and Service are the five principles Five Star is based on. Currently, we are talking about dreams with the kids, and it’s quite inspiring to hear what some of the girls want to do; not only with their current living situations, or family situations, but with their futures.

It’s been an amazing journey thus far, and I must say, I’m so excited that there is more to come…

I have eight girls in my group, from Brown Intermediate Center. They are remarkable young ladies, and I can’t say it enough how lucky I am to be a part of their lives.

We started nearly four weeks ago and two Saturdays ago, we took nearly 130 kids to a camp called Manowe, located in Sturgis, Michigan. There, we were able to do a number of activities with our kids, including a high-ropes course. I must say, it was intimidating to look at and I’m 27! I can’t imagine a 12, 13, or 14-year-old looking up, saying, ‘I can do this’.

However, the strength and perseverance of these kids’ continues to amaze me to this day. And probably will for a LONG time.

As we get strapped in for our adventure, a number of the girls opted to not complete the course. However, after a little encouragement from us, their coaches, the girls, their peers, began cheering them on. Some still decided not to complete it, but a number of them tried. They tried and conquered. I guess it goes back to chasing a ‘dream’. It takes steps to get there and with a simple element, like a ropes course, they ALL took steps to get to the next level…even if it was only getting to the top and NOT completing the course. They were able to get to a level, that in the beginning, they thought wasn’t possible to get to. Amazing…these kids are amazing…

We were all meant to live for something, something that brings us ALIVE...which in turn, brings others ALIVE…

So…'don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come ALIVE, and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come ALIVE'...

Uncertainty lingers...

2007-10-31T12:57:00.000-07:00

It's that thing that runs through your mind on a daily basis...

The nagging, unprecedented uncertainty lingering around every turn you take, every choice you make...

We run this race called life so hard, that sometimes we miss the point, the angels that give us hope and make the race easier to take on...perhaps easier to run...

As you gaze upon the vastness of the next blue sky, or star filled sky, take a moment to remember why you're here...don't take this thing called life for granted, embrace every moment, embrace every memory...

Have you got it in you?

2007-10-30T14:02:00.000-07:00

Have you got it in you?

Yeah, you!!!

How many times have you sat at the very place you are sitting now…how many times have you stared at the screen in front of you…how long have you been waiting to act instead of react???

Have you got it in you?

Why do we talk, but never act…why do we speak, but never listen…why do we have fear and never overcome it???

Have you got it in you?

STOP YOUR HESITATION...

Oh my God...

2007-10-29T14:10:00.000-07:00

Lyrics to songs are sometimes parallel to life; they reflect at times, what we might be thinking, yet haven't spoken...this song, by Jars of Clay does just that. It's a cry, it's a plea, it's something relevant to this moment...this time...it's called 'Oh my God'...

Oh my God, look around this place
Your fingers reach around the bone
You set the break and set the tone
Flights of grace, and future falls
In present pain
All fools say, "Oh my God"

Oh my God, Why are we so afraid?
We make it worse when we don't bleed
There is no cure for our disease
Turn a phrase, and rise again
Or fake your death and only tell your closest friend
Oh my God.

Oh my God, can I complain?
You take away my firm belief and graft my soul upon your grief
Weddings, boats and alibis
All drift away, and a mother cries

Liars and fools; sons and failures
Thieves will always say
Lost and found; ailing wanderers
Healers always say
Whores and angels; men with problems
Leavers always say
Broken hearted; separated
Orphans always say
War creators; racial haters
Preachers always say
Distant fathers; fallen warriors
Givers always say
Pilgrim saints; lonely widows
Users always say
Fearful mothers; watchful doubters
Saviors always say

Sometimes I cannot forgive
And these days, mercy cuts so deep
If the world was how it should be, maybe I could get some sleep
While I lay, I dream we're better,
Scales were gone and faces light
When we wake, we hate our brother
We still move to hurt each other
Sometimes I can close my eyes,
And all the fear that keeps me silent falls below my heavy breathing,
What makes me so badly bent?
We all have a chance to murder
We all feel the need for wonder
We still want to be reminded that the pain is worth the thunder

Sometimes when I lose my grip, I wonder what to make of heaven
All the times I thought to reach up
All the times I had to give
Babies underneath their beds
Hospitals that cannot treat all the wounds that money causes,
All the comforts of cathedrals
All the cries of thirsty children - this is our inheritance
All the rage of watching mothers - this is our greatest offense

Oh my God...

Actions Speak Louder Than Words...

2007-10-27T12:55:00.000-07:00

I don’t understand the essence of why things happen the way they do...I am continually dumbfounded by the chaos and commotion that life can bring…

…what is wrong with people? What is wrong with ‘Christians’? That term is used MUCH too often. Almost to the point where Christians choose NOT to label themselves as such, because the label just doesn’t fit what ‘Christians’ have become. I’d like to think of my self as a Jesus lover, Christ follower, God-fearing woman. When someone asks me if I am a ‘Christian’ I respond as such...

Is that wrong? I don’t necessarily believe that; however, I do believe that a revolution of sorts needs to happen…perhaps in the church itself, but what if a revolution happened OUTSIDE of those walls? With people who are tired with ONLY talking about it, but wanting to DO something about it? So often times, ‘talking about it’ is where it’s left. No ACTION is ever taken. Perhaps it’s fear, maybe it’s evil seeping though the cracks of our fragility, I don’t know…I DO know though that God is real; He is real to me; my heart pushes me to react instead of sit back and watch a world in peril.

We talk and talk about global warming, but what about the affects of what we are doing to souls? Does anyone ever ask THAT question? I don’t discount those who believe our planet is in danger if we do not stop our callousness, but again, what about the very nature of our human selves? We can talk all we want, but I truly believe that it’s what we DO that makes our lives matter; our ACTIONS make our lives represent the beauty and love that God so evidently displayed to each of us…on a cross…it was His ACTIONS that spoke more than words…

Perhaps I’m a little naive, but I think it’s our ACTIONS that speak much louder than ANY words that come out of our mouths...

Words of Enlightenment...

2007-10-26T13:22:00.000-07:00

ENLIGHTENED PERSPECTIVE; all WORDS below were written by Andy Rooney, a man who has the gift of saying so much with so few words…

I've learned....That the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.

I've learned....That when you're in love, it shows.

I've learned....That just one person saying to me, 'You've made my day!' makes my day.

I've learned....That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.

I've learned....That being kind is more important than being right.

I've learned....That you should never say no to a gift from a child.

I've learned....That I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in some other way.

I've learned....That no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.

I've learned....That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.

I've learned....That simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a child did wonders for me as an adult.

I've learned....That life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.

I've learned....That we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for.

I've learned....That money doesn't buy class.

I've learned....That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.

I've learned...That under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.

I've learned....That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.

I’ve learned....That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.

I've learned....That love, not time, heals all wounds.

I've learned....That the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.

I've learned....That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.

I've learned....That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.

I've learned...That life is tough, but I'm tougher.

I've learned....That opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.

I've learned....That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.

I've learned....That I wish I could have told my Mom that I love her one more time before she passed away.

I've learned....That one should keep his words both soft and tender, because tomorrow he may have to eat them.

I've learned....That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

I've learned....That when your newly born grandchild holds your little finger in his little fist, that you're hooked for life.

I've learned....That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.

I've learned....That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done...

Looking Fear in the Face...

2007-10-25T12:34:00.000-07:00

Conquering your greatest fear is something that many can’t say they’ve ever done. Whether it’s because they choose NOT to face it, or they just simply couldn’t do it.

I’ve often thought that I was BIGGER than my fears; I could rise above them easily…but the thing is…it’s tough…It’s like riding a bike…you slowly begin to petal, then you take off, and sometimes, you fall. You fall flat on your face. But here is the thing with that…falling sometimes isn’t a bad thing. Falling can sometimes, make you strive even harder to conquer the thing you were up against, which ultimately helps you stare straight into the eye of fear itself.

Perhaps that’s gibberish to you, but failure is a culprit that many of us succumb to. Fear of failure, leads to fear of many other things…but it robs you of living life to the fullest, and doing the things that you were meant to do…

...believe me, I don’t have it all figured out, but I think that I’m starting to unravel my fears…stare them right in the eye…and despite my failures…I’ve learned that falling down isn’t so bad…it makes me try even harder to attain the impossible… because attempting to do something great isn’t easy, but it’s the journey that makes triumph attainable…

So...You Want Truth?

2007-10-24T14:08:00.000-07:00

I read this a few weeks ago...thought I would share it here...

A prestigious university professor challenged his students with this question: "Did God create everything that exists?"

A student bravely replied "yes, He did!"

"God created everything?" The professor asked.

"Yes sir," the student replied. The professor answered, "If God created everything, then God created evil since evil exists, and according to the principal that our works define who we are, then God is evil."

The student became quiet before such an answer. The professor was quite pleased and boasted to the students that he had proven once more that the Christian faith was a myth.

Another student raised his hand and said, "Can I ask you a question professor?"

"Of course," replied the professor. The student stood up and asked, "Professor, does cold exist?"

"What kind of question is this? Of course it exists. Have you never been cold?"

The students snickered at the young man's question. The young man replied, "In fact sir, cold does not exist. According to the laws of physics, what we consider cold is in reality the absence of heat." Everybody or object is susceptible to study when it has or transmits energy, and heat is what makes a body or matter have or transmit energy. Absolute zero (-460 degrees F) is the total absence of heat; all matter becomes inert and incapable of reaction at that temperature. Cold does not exist. We have created this word to describe how we feel if we have no heat.

The student continued. "Professor, does darkness exist?"

The professor responded, "Of course it does."

The student replied, "Once again you are wrong sir, darkness does not exist either. Darkness is in reality the absence of light. Light we can study, but not darkness. In fact we can use Newton's prism to break white light into many colors and study the various wavelengths of each color. You cannot measure darkness. A simple ray of light can break into a world of darkness and illuminate it. How can you know how dark a certain space is? You measure the amount of light present. Isn't this correct? Darkness is a term used by man to describe what happens when there is no light present."

Finally the young man asked the professor. "Sir, does evil exist?"

Now uncertain, the professor responded, "Of course as I have already said. We see it every day. It is in the daily example of man's inhumanity to man. It is in the multitude of crime and violence everywhere in the world. These manifestations are nothing else but evil."

To this the student replied, "Evil does not exist sir, or at least it does not exist unto itself. Evil is simply the absence of God. It is just like darkness and cold, evil is a word that man has created to describe the absence of God. God did not create evil. Evil is not like faith, or love that exists just as does light and heat. Evil is the result of what happens when man does not have God's love present in his heart. It's like the cold that comes when there is no heat or the darkness that comes when there is no light."

The professor sat down.

You may have heard of this student...

The young man's name --- Albert Einstein...