Since our 4 Sunday services this month will be on The Circle Maker, I have decided to read the book again. For, I think, the third or fourth time. I love that book. I especially love the 'Draw The Circle' devotional Mark Batterson put out as well. I think I have been through that one about 4 times. I may do that one again as well. I get something new out of it each time I read it.
Sorta like reading the Bible over and over - each time God shows me something new, something different. Unfortunately, it is usually something I need to work on. Lately I've been reading in James about taming the tongue. Do I ever fail miserably on that one! Not so much at home, but, confession time, believe it or not, it is so hard at work to control the tongue. Many times when I hear people say things or do things, I want to go (and some times do) "are you kidding me? are you that stupid?" Ok - sometimes I think the second part of that, but many times I want to say it under my breath!
I reviewed my "list" of circles I created back in January 2012 when I first read The Circle Maker and noted which ones I needed to update that my prayers were answered, where did I need to be a bit more specific, and where did I need to really continue to pray. I need to start focusing on my prayer circles again.
Do I believe that God will answer my prayers? Absolutely. There isn't a doubt in my mind. However, I also know that He doesn't always answer the way I ask for the answer. I want each of my children to be blessed and have all that they need (I'm writing this without being specific right now), but sometimes I want to scream at them what they are doing or what is going on in their lives is NOT where I see God working. I want harmony within the family. Putting others before blood is wrong and is NOT what I pray for, is NOT what God wants. Being self-centered (yes, I have to work on this one too) is wrong. Being Christ centered is right. Being open and honest is right. Being open, honest and cruel, is wrong. You know what I'm saying.
I pray over our finances - each one of the children - our church - and even us. Finances are tough for all of us. I know I have done my part in making things tighter for us, but, I need to start focusing on how I can help get us out of debt. With Christmas less than 4 months away, I have a struggle within me. But, each one knows that I love them dearly. It isn't about the gift; it is about the value - and I don't mean monetary. I need to write down things as I think about them so that I can follow through on what I think will bring joy to each one. I know each one understands. For me, it is more important that they take care of their family first.
Circling prayers. Getting out of debt is one of my prayers. Each of my children become surrendered to Jesus Christ is another. Another circle is that each one of my children will become debt-free. And yet another is that each of the grandchildren will know Jesus as Lord. Another is that we can be truly a family; without pretense, without tolerance, but with complete love and forgiveness and acceptance.
I have a lot of other circles, and I've even created a bucket list. I really need to revise it. Some things just won't happen on my bucket list. Some I need to put in bold, to keep me focused. Some are just dreams that maybe some day....
I'm starting to mellow out so guess I'll hush.... potato salad is made, lettuce salad is made - we're soon going to head to the daughter's for the day. Got a text earlier that Annabelle, our princess' dog, wanted to know if Marley was coming to visit. I think Marley is looking forward to seeing her new friend. It looks really cloudy out so there may not be much pool time today.
Oh well, I have to work some this afternoon. Taking my computer and printer with me, as I mentioned in yesterday's blog. It wasn't necessarily a 'volunteer' to work today; for me, it is mandatory. We have crucial deadlines to meet and severe penalties if we are out of compliance. I don't want to lose my job over not being in compliance; I'll work a few hours this afternoon to keep it from happening. If it rains we'll be watching a movie on TV anyway so I won't even be missed.
Need to check on some other things so guess I need to get off here. Hope you have a good and safe Labor Day and enjoy spending the extra day with family.
Blessings!
Monday, September 2, 2013
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Labor Day weekend.....
Yesterday (Saturday) was a fun day - well, it started out that way, anyway. I met up with my best friend at the Tempe Marketplace and we had breakfast together and then did a few hours of shopping. It was nice to get away just the two of us and talk and play. Didn't buy that much, which is probably a good thing.
Church this morning was awesome. Worship was good, and Pastor Jim Davey did an awesome message on the first of the series on The Circle Maker. I have commented a few times over the past several months on things that I got out of the The Circle Maker. This Thursday starts our group classes again and we will also be doing the study that goes along with the videos for the book. Looking forward to our group getting back together again - we took a break this summer.
Yogurtini around 4PM this afternoon to help support Women's Ministry at church. From 4-7PM Yogurtini donates 10% of all sales (or is it 20%) to support our Women's Ministry, so we always try to go. Yes, that is the only reason we go. :-)
I made kale chips this afternoon. First time ever - not bad, but one does need to like kale, I think, although it doesn't have a strong flavor. I can eat these and not worry about all the preservatives getting in my body that is in the chips. ICK!
And yes, I'm rambling.
Tomorrow is pool time at the daughter's place. Middle child and family aren't going this year - I remembered yesterday that Labor Day was when we celebrated the September birthdays - but since he and his daughter are only two in September, I guess we can do it later. Our son-in-law's birthday is in a couple weeks. According to my daughter, it is the first time in 18 years they haven't attended .... but I'm sure they want to start their own traditions.... as all the kids tend to start doing eventually. Soon it will be the grandchildren that will be starting their own traditions. I've learned I have to let go - it's not easy - but cut the apron strings I/we must!!
I still need to get potatoes to make potato salad to take tomorrow. Only 2-3 even eat it so I'm not going to make a lot. I am to bring a regular salad too.... will need to pick up fresh lettuce when we stop at the store. Since my son and his family won't be there, that cuts down on a large volume of that too. But I'd rather have them there - but understand completely.
Guess I need to work on my Wednesday night class material and the Thursday night group material - yep - teaching both nights - at least this month. Need to get things done. I have to work some tomorrow - yep, it is Labor Day, but have been asked to work in the afternoon. I can work from home so plan to take my computer and my printer (since it is connected to my computer) to my daughter's tomorrow and I can work from there for awhile. I don't expect to have to do much, but need to do some. The nurse will text me when she has some work for me to do. Or I will just jump online and get on it. I checked a little bit ago and nothing is there - hopefully we won't get anything major in. It's not even overtime, although the boss said it was overtime - you have to work 40 hours (the 8 hours off for Labor day doesn't count as working as it's a holiday) before you get overtime pay. However, I will get holiday pay, which comes out to the same thing. I could probably wait until late afternoon and just do them all - but I'll start when I get their text.
Guess I'll hush and get off here - need to do something - or is that s-o-m-e-t-h-i-n-g..... :-) Lazy day weekends.
Hope you are having a good one.
Blessings!
Church this morning was awesome. Worship was good, and Pastor Jim Davey did an awesome message on the first of the series on The Circle Maker. I have commented a few times over the past several months on things that I got out of the The Circle Maker. This Thursday starts our group classes again and we will also be doing the study that goes along with the videos for the book. Looking forward to our group getting back together again - we took a break this summer.
Yogurtini around 4PM this afternoon to help support Women's Ministry at church. From 4-7PM Yogurtini donates 10% of all sales (or is it 20%) to support our Women's Ministry, so we always try to go. Yes, that is the only reason we go. :-)
I made kale chips this afternoon. First time ever - not bad, but one does need to like kale, I think, although it doesn't have a strong flavor. I can eat these and not worry about all the preservatives getting in my body that is in the chips. ICK!
And yes, I'm rambling.
Tomorrow is pool time at the daughter's place. Middle child and family aren't going this year - I remembered yesterday that Labor Day was when we celebrated the September birthdays - but since he and his daughter are only two in September, I guess we can do it later. Our son-in-law's birthday is in a couple weeks. According to my daughter, it is the first time in 18 years they haven't attended .... but I'm sure they want to start their own traditions.... as all the kids tend to start doing eventually. Soon it will be the grandchildren that will be starting their own traditions. I've learned I have to let go - it's not easy - but cut the apron strings I/we must!!
I still need to get potatoes to make potato salad to take tomorrow. Only 2-3 even eat it so I'm not going to make a lot. I am to bring a regular salad too.... will need to pick up fresh lettuce when we stop at the store. Since my son and his family won't be there, that cuts down on a large volume of that too. But I'd rather have them there - but understand completely.
Guess I need to work on my Wednesday night class material and the Thursday night group material - yep - teaching both nights - at least this month. Need to get things done. I have to work some tomorrow - yep, it is Labor Day, but have been asked to work in the afternoon. I can work from home so plan to take my computer and my printer (since it is connected to my computer) to my daughter's tomorrow and I can work from there for awhile. I don't expect to have to do much, but need to do some. The nurse will text me when she has some work for me to do. Or I will just jump online and get on it. I checked a little bit ago and nothing is there - hopefully we won't get anything major in. It's not even overtime, although the boss said it was overtime - you have to work 40 hours (the 8 hours off for Labor day doesn't count as working as it's a holiday) before you get overtime pay. However, I will get holiday pay, which comes out to the same thing. I could probably wait until late afternoon and just do them all - but I'll start when I get their text.
Guess I'll hush and get off here - need to do something - or is that s-o-m-e-t-h-i-n-g..... :-) Lazy day weekends.
Hope you are having a good one.
Blessings!
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Thinking about Dream Busters.....
Thinking about dream busters this morning. You know the ones. The ones who shoot down every achievement, every thought that has value. The ones who have a critical spirit and put you down when it's YOUR idea, but thinks it is a wonderful idea if it is theirs.
As I listened again to the message by Pastor Steve, he shared the true story of Monty Roberts. For most of us the name means nothing. However, listen to his story....
When Monty was a senior in high school his class was asked by the teacher to write out their goals after graduation. Monty really thought about it and proceeded to write a 7 pages, complete with designs, of how he wanted to buy a 200 acre plot of land and build a horse farm. He even designed the stables how he wanted them laid out, wanted a 4000 ft house. He turned his paper in. A couple days later the teacher returned it to him with a big red 'F' on the paper. Why? Because he was the son of a itinerant horse trainer who have very little money, they were poor, and that dream was way out of what the teacher felt Monty could ever have. Therefore, the 'F'. The teacher told him to rewrite his goals in life and he would reconsider his grade.
Monty took the paper home and after a week brought it back and handed the same paper in, with this comment. "You can record the 'F', I will keep my dream." The teacher wrote the F in the record book and returned the paper to Monty.
Years later finds Monty Roberts known as the 'Horse Whisperer' and he does have a 200 acre farm, complete with the stables that he designed, and a 4000 ft house, just as he wrote in the paper his senior year of high school. This teacher even brought 20 students on a trip to Monty's farm and stayed there for a week.
After that week the teacher told Monty, "I was wrong. I did not believe in your dream, and I am so sorry. I busted the dreams of many students over the years. I am glad you kept your dream."
Are you a dream buster? Do you find yourself criticizing others for their dreams? Do you squash their hopes of becoming something greater than they are or feel that you need to get them straightened out? Do you tell them they can't do it? Their dream is not realistic? That they are just who they are and they will never be any better?
Step back and think about it. Were you never encouraged as a child - or as an adult - to achieve greater things? Did people shut down your dream - and you believed they were right? Did you want to achieve more than you have?
If you have achieved your dream, you are one of the lucky ones. You worked hard to get there. You were willing to make the necessary sacrifices. You believed in yourself. Good job. Congratulations.
Look at those about you. Is there someone who needs encouraged they can be more than they are? Be the one to encourage them! Is there something you can do to help them achieve their goals? How can you be an instrument in helping others about you grow and mature in the things of life?
What's your dream? Do you need encouragement? Do you feel left out and all alone in your dream? Share it - and ask for help. If you get discouragement back - walk away and find someone who believes in you.
Keep your dream - don't let the dream buster take it away.
Blessings!
As I listened again to the message by Pastor Steve, he shared the true story of Monty Roberts. For most of us the name means nothing. However, listen to his story....
When Monty was a senior in high school his class was asked by the teacher to write out their goals after graduation. Monty really thought about it and proceeded to write a 7 pages, complete with designs, of how he wanted to buy a 200 acre plot of land and build a horse farm. He even designed the stables how he wanted them laid out, wanted a 4000 ft house. He turned his paper in. A couple days later the teacher returned it to him with a big red 'F' on the paper. Why? Because he was the son of a itinerant horse trainer who have very little money, they were poor, and that dream was way out of what the teacher felt Monty could ever have. Therefore, the 'F'. The teacher told him to rewrite his goals in life and he would reconsider his grade.
Monty took the paper home and after a week brought it back and handed the same paper in, with this comment. "You can record the 'F', I will keep my dream." The teacher wrote the F in the record book and returned the paper to Monty.
Years later finds Monty Roberts known as the 'Horse Whisperer' and he does have a 200 acre farm, complete with the stables that he designed, and a 4000 ft house, just as he wrote in the paper his senior year of high school. This teacher even brought 20 students on a trip to Monty's farm and stayed there for a week.
After that week the teacher told Monty, "I was wrong. I did not believe in your dream, and I am so sorry. I busted the dreams of many students over the years. I am glad you kept your dream."
Are you a dream buster? Do you find yourself criticizing others for their dreams? Do you squash their hopes of becoming something greater than they are or feel that you need to get them straightened out? Do you tell them they can't do it? Their dream is not realistic? That they are just who they are and they will never be any better?
Step back and think about it. Were you never encouraged as a child - or as an adult - to achieve greater things? Did people shut down your dream - and you believed they were right? Did you want to achieve more than you have?
If you have achieved your dream, you are one of the lucky ones. You worked hard to get there. You were willing to make the necessary sacrifices. You believed in yourself. Good job. Congratulations.
Look at those about you. Is there someone who needs encouraged they can be more than they are? Be the one to encourage them! Is there something you can do to help them achieve their goals? How can you be an instrument in helping others about you grow and mature in the things of life?
What's your dream? Do you need encouragement? Do you feel left out and all alone in your dream? Share it - and ask for help. If you get discouragement back - walk away and find someone who believes in you.
Keep your dream - don't let the dream buster take it away.
Blessings!
Monday, August 26, 2013
It's Monday - so soon!! Just a bunch of nonsense....
It was a crazy, busy weekend! I did not get much done at all. I did get some shopping done yesterday, cashing in on more of my birthday "gifts" from the stores. Got my birthday necklace (from my brother 4 years ago) cleaned at the jewelry store and while there picked up my free pearl birthday earrings. Saturday evening spent with our daughter and family. Great dinner and fun sitting in the spa just to relax. We had a great time and the dinner was awesome. Sitting in the spa was really nice too.
I tried to get on the study for my class on Wednesday - worked about an hour on it and realized I had done week two instead of week one. So I quit. Brought my book to work today to start again during my lunch hour, since I have to take one.
Having coffee with my youngest son tonight as hubby has his men's group meeting at the house. I usually go hibernate in my room while they meet. I won't have to tonight with meeting up with my son. It will be nice to catch up on him. I am so proud of him - he made 2nd LT! Now to keep his head on straight and do his job well. :-)
Speaking of sons, my middle child has a job and starts today! I am sure he is excited about starting something new. I am so proud of him for pursuing the job and finally securing it. I am confident he will excel with it. I read his blog this morning in which he shared the boss has already built him up on how good he is going to be.
I'm so proud of my children (and grandchildren) I could just bust buttons - if I had any on! I'm glad to see them getting their lives in order and getting priorities straight. Sometimes we all need to re-evaluate what is important to us and pursue our dream. I know in some areas I have grown very lax and I really do want to get better. It's just that sometimes it's hard to get everything accomplished .....
Today I'm back at work and my co-worker is back from vacation. I'm so glad she's back - the temp we had last week - well, when you don't 'own' the job, you don't put in your heart to get the job done correctly. I'm a little apprehensive on how well she completed the job. We have caught her in lies, and going around people and saying things. Normally that is grounds for dismissal; now that my coworker is back, it will be interesting to see if this person stays. Her friend is my temp to help me. Thus far I haven't utilized her much because she was learning the job last week, but also there was barely enough work to keep me busy, let alone me sharing work.
Doesn't look like I'm going to get much time to write. My coworkers keep asking me questions and I have to stop and respond. Now it is almost 8AM so need to get my focus on what I need to do today.
Hope that you have a good day -
Blessings!
I tried to get on the study for my class on Wednesday - worked about an hour on it and realized I had done week two instead of week one. So I quit. Brought my book to work today to start again during my lunch hour, since I have to take one.
Having coffee with my youngest son tonight as hubby has his men's group meeting at the house. I usually go hibernate in my room while they meet. I won't have to tonight with meeting up with my son. It will be nice to catch up on him. I am so proud of him - he made 2nd LT! Now to keep his head on straight and do his job well. :-)
Speaking of sons, my middle child has a job and starts today! I am sure he is excited about starting something new. I am so proud of him for pursuing the job and finally securing it. I am confident he will excel with it. I read his blog this morning in which he shared the boss has already built him up on how good he is going to be.
I'm so proud of my children (and grandchildren) I could just bust buttons - if I had any on! I'm glad to see them getting their lives in order and getting priorities straight. Sometimes we all need to re-evaluate what is important to us and pursue our dream. I know in some areas I have grown very lax and I really do want to get better. It's just that sometimes it's hard to get everything accomplished .....
Today I'm back at work and my co-worker is back from vacation. I'm so glad she's back - the temp we had last week - well, when you don't 'own' the job, you don't put in your heart to get the job done correctly. I'm a little apprehensive on how well she completed the job. We have caught her in lies, and going around people and saying things. Normally that is grounds for dismissal; now that my coworker is back, it will be interesting to see if this person stays. Her friend is my temp to help me. Thus far I haven't utilized her much because she was learning the job last week, but also there was barely enough work to keep me busy, let alone me sharing work.
Doesn't look like I'm going to get much time to write. My coworkers keep asking me questions and I have to stop and respond. Now it is almost 8AM so need to get my focus on what I need to do today.
Hope that you have a good day -
Blessings!
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Cloudy, with a possibility of rain....
That is what it looks like outside. We are supposed to leave shortly to go to our daughter's for dinner and swim tonight.... but it is getting darker by the minute. Yet, she said to bring our swimsuits! So what if it rains - if it isn't lightening, it will be ok. BUT, thunderstorms are predicted - so we'll see!! It will be fun, regardless, to spend time with my daughter and her husband. I don't think the children will be home; the princess had plans for the afternoon and the grandson had plans for the evening, I think. Oh well.
I meant to go to the mall today and cash in on more gift cards/discounts today - but it didn't happen. Hubby and I went to the grocery store. Actually two of them. One for fresh fruit and vegetables and the other to pick up other things. We did not even get a cart full between the two stores; only some deli turkey slices and a package of chicken slices, a 1 lb roll of ground turkey - and we spent nearly $200!! Oh we got milk, eggs, etc but prices have gone up so much on everything that it didn't take long at all for it to add up. And we didn't buy junk food either!!
I took Marley for a little over two mile walk this morning. It felt good to be out walking again. I have promised her for several weeks to get out and walk - and something always came up to prevent it. But, I did manage to get her out this morning. My daughter asked us to bring Marley with us tonight so that she can run in the yard. Will see how she gets along with Annabelle, our Princess' German Shepherd. Marley seems to get along with other dogs well - I guess we will find out tonight how well 1:1. I hope they get along - that way when we get together she CAN go over with us and run their huge yard. Usually we have to leave early or only stay a few hours, for we don't like leaving her cooped up in the crate a long time. She doesn't seem to mind though. We usually give her a large rawhide to chew on and she's flat on her back, legs up in air by the time we get home.
Our house has been overrun by crickets. Geez! I killed two in my bathroom last night. There is one right next to me right now - when I tried to get it a moment ago, it jumped out of sight. Now it's back. Will it dare get to where I can attack it. Darn! It got away again!!
Cloudy, with a possibility of rain. Sounds like that could also be our attitudes some time, doesn't it? I've seen a lot of that lately in different people. Cloudy, grumpy, irritable people..... who strike with lightening precision when the opportunity presents itself. Sometimes I just grow weary of it. Sometimes it is me.
Don't really have anything to share today. Maybe I will as the week goes on. Need to get my things together to head on over for the dinner and swim. Sure beats sitting home watching TV all evening. Of course my playing Words with Friends all evening finishes it up. Need to get to reading more again. It's just so hard to find time for the things I enjoy, like reading, playing Words with Friends. I have a puzzle I want to put together. I have other things I want to do. I just don't do them. Not going to make excuses. I just don't do them.
And I still need to get off here. Hope that you are having a fabulous weekend.
Blessings!
I meant to go to the mall today and cash in on more gift cards/discounts today - but it didn't happen. Hubby and I went to the grocery store. Actually two of them. One for fresh fruit and vegetables and the other to pick up other things. We did not even get a cart full between the two stores; only some deli turkey slices and a package of chicken slices, a 1 lb roll of ground turkey - and we spent nearly $200!! Oh we got milk, eggs, etc but prices have gone up so much on everything that it didn't take long at all for it to add up. And we didn't buy junk food either!!
I took Marley for a little over two mile walk this morning. It felt good to be out walking again. I have promised her for several weeks to get out and walk - and something always came up to prevent it. But, I did manage to get her out this morning. My daughter asked us to bring Marley with us tonight so that she can run in the yard. Will see how she gets along with Annabelle, our Princess' German Shepherd. Marley seems to get along with other dogs well - I guess we will find out tonight how well 1:1. I hope they get along - that way when we get together she CAN go over with us and run their huge yard. Usually we have to leave early or only stay a few hours, for we don't like leaving her cooped up in the crate a long time. She doesn't seem to mind though. We usually give her a large rawhide to chew on and she's flat on her back, legs up in air by the time we get home.
Our house has been overrun by crickets. Geez! I killed two in my bathroom last night. There is one right next to me right now - when I tried to get it a moment ago, it jumped out of sight. Now it's back. Will it dare get to where I can attack it. Darn! It got away again!!
Cloudy, with a possibility of rain. Sounds like that could also be our attitudes some time, doesn't it? I've seen a lot of that lately in different people. Cloudy, grumpy, irritable people..... who strike with lightening precision when the opportunity presents itself. Sometimes I just grow weary of it. Sometimes it is me.
Don't really have anything to share today. Maybe I will as the week goes on. Need to get my things together to head on over for the dinner and swim. Sure beats sitting home watching TV all evening. Of course my playing Words with Friends all evening finishes it up. Need to get to reading more again. It's just so hard to find time for the things I enjoy, like reading, playing Words with Friends. I have a puzzle I want to put together. I have other things I want to do. I just don't do them. Not going to make excuses. I just don't do them.
And I still need to get off here. Hope that you are having a fabulous weekend.
Blessings!
Friday, August 23, 2013
Dream It, Live It....
Decided to grab one of the sermons I have on CD from Pastor Steve Chiles this morning to listen to on the way to work. I grabbed the one titled Dream It, Live It. As I listened to the first one I am reminded of how I have not been able to 'live my dream'. The dream that hurts because I haven't been able to fulfill it.
In the message Pastor Steve talks about whether it is OUR dream, or is it GOD'S Dream for us. It makes me pause and think about that. What is, what has been, God's dream for me? Have I messed things up so badly that I will never achieve His dream? No, God can work through any messes I create, so I know that He can still bring about His dream for me.
Pastor Steve reminded me of the story of Joseph. He was only 17 and he had a dream of his brothers and his dad bowing down to him. He wasn't too smart to brag about his dream to them all, but when he spoke it, it brought reality to it. It set things into motion. His brothers got angry (or more jealous) of Joseph, throwing him into a pit, and then selling him to a caravan as a slave. Joseph ends up in Egypt, slave of Potipher, then gets put in prison for something he didn't do for two years. He gets out of prison when Pharaoh has a dream and no one can tell him what it means and the cupbearer remembers Joseph interpreting his dream two years earlier. Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dream and becomes the 2nd in command in Egypt, overseeing the coming famine. His brothers bow down to him when they come to Egypt to get food.
God's dream isn't cooked in a microwave, God's dream is cooked in a crockpot.
It took 20 years for Joseph's dream to come true, but he had to speak it to put things into place.
If we have a dream, and we don't share what our dream is with anyone, we may never achieve our dream because we need others to set it into motion.
For example, it's like looking for a job. As a rule, the job won't come to you, but if you tell others you are looking for a job, they will keep your need in the back of their mind and if they hear of anything, they will think of you and let you know about it. If you don't share it, they don't know you are looking.
Or perhaps God gives you a dream of helping others. Right now you may not know how to even begin. Start by telling others your dream and look for ways to implement that dream. What do you need to know? Do you need to start in a food kitchen serving others to understand what the real needs of the people are? Are you more into serving by talking with them and directing them where they can get help? Start making a list of agencies and facilities that help those in need. Talk to these people and volunteer your services. Come to know what the real need is.
Perhaps you feel called to be a leader. Start reading, studying, learning on what it takes to be a leader in the field you choose. Get a mentor who will help you learn and will encourage you when times are tough. Look for someone who knows who you are that you can share that dream with.
I've had a couple mentors. I had Pastor Steve as my mentor for ministry. He has helped me, and still does on occasion, prepare sermons, understand situations, work through ministerial issues and other things. My friend Jan has helped me also in ministry, listening to issues I wouldn't share with my pastor but could with someone who is my "coach" so that she could help me work through those. Then I have my best friend, Sue. Sue has been my friend for over 20 years. We have worked together nearly all those years, and for some of those she has been my boss. Right now she is my boss at this new company, but there is one person, my director, between us. We don't get to talk as much as before, but we do try to get together once a month to walk and to talk about personal things and about work and its issues. Occasionally I can catch her in her office and we chat for a few minutes then, but work is always beckoning us so our chats are short. Sue helps me see the big picture on things involving my job. She listens to my rants and encourages me to 'hang on', changes may be coming down the road.
If I didn't share years ago about my call to ministry, that I felt that is where God was leading me, I would not begin and complete the process to become an ordained minister. I have shared my dream of being on staff at a church - a PAID staff member, so that I can give all my time to serving. In time, perhaps it will come to fruition. But then, was that God's dream for me, am I in the crockpot of waiting until time, or was it my dream because I love Him so much? Only time will tell.
If I hadn't shared I was looking for a job with my friend last year, she wouldn't have told me they had an opening and was I interested. I was, and I went through the normal procedures and received the job offer. I feel God has placed me here but I don't know why. I need to keep my mouth shut for now and listen to hear what He wants me to do here, besides all this work.
Do I have doubts along the way that God has called me to ministry due to all the frustrations that I have felt? Absolutely. I often begin to wonder if it was just me, was it just.... me. I don't think so, but feel that where I am now is where I am supposed to be. I can facilitate an adult class and I love doing that. I love helping others grow in their walk with Christ. Our new fall classes start next Wednesday and I am already praying people will come to the class. Last year I did a class and only one person showed up! But we did have class!! I enjoy teaching because it forces me to STUDY, to READ, to keep up on things I need to know. I have gotten so lax over the past few years. Oh I still read, but was disheartened by circumstances, so discouraged, that I was giving up. But now, I have something to look forward to once again. It encourages me.
And now a coworker has brought me some things to look at so I need to hush and help her. Perhaps that is what God has called me to do. At least for today.
Hope you have a wonderful day.
Blessings!
In the message Pastor Steve talks about whether it is OUR dream, or is it GOD'S Dream for us. It makes me pause and think about that. What is, what has been, God's dream for me? Have I messed things up so badly that I will never achieve His dream? No, God can work through any messes I create, so I know that He can still bring about His dream for me.
Pastor Steve reminded me of the story of Joseph. He was only 17 and he had a dream of his brothers and his dad bowing down to him. He wasn't too smart to brag about his dream to them all, but when he spoke it, it brought reality to it. It set things into motion. His brothers got angry (or more jealous) of Joseph, throwing him into a pit, and then selling him to a caravan as a slave. Joseph ends up in Egypt, slave of Potipher, then gets put in prison for something he didn't do for two years. He gets out of prison when Pharaoh has a dream and no one can tell him what it means and the cupbearer remembers Joseph interpreting his dream two years earlier. Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dream and becomes the 2nd in command in Egypt, overseeing the coming famine. His brothers bow down to him when they come to Egypt to get food.
God's dream isn't cooked in a microwave, God's dream is cooked in a crockpot.
It took 20 years for Joseph's dream to come true, but he had to speak it to put things into place.
If we have a dream, and we don't share what our dream is with anyone, we may never achieve our dream because we need others to set it into motion.
For example, it's like looking for a job. As a rule, the job won't come to you, but if you tell others you are looking for a job, they will keep your need in the back of their mind and if they hear of anything, they will think of you and let you know about it. If you don't share it, they don't know you are looking.
Or perhaps God gives you a dream of helping others. Right now you may not know how to even begin. Start by telling others your dream and look for ways to implement that dream. What do you need to know? Do you need to start in a food kitchen serving others to understand what the real needs of the people are? Are you more into serving by talking with them and directing them where they can get help? Start making a list of agencies and facilities that help those in need. Talk to these people and volunteer your services. Come to know what the real need is.
Perhaps you feel called to be a leader. Start reading, studying, learning on what it takes to be a leader in the field you choose. Get a mentor who will help you learn and will encourage you when times are tough. Look for someone who knows who you are that you can share that dream with.
I've had a couple mentors. I had Pastor Steve as my mentor for ministry. He has helped me, and still does on occasion, prepare sermons, understand situations, work through ministerial issues and other things. My friend Jan has helped me also in ministry, listening to issues I wouldn't share with my pastor but could with someone who is my "coach" so that she could help me work through those. Then I have my best friend, Sue. Sue has been my friend for over 20 years. We have worked together nearly all those years, and for some of those she has been my boss. Right now she is my boss at this new company, but there is one person, my director, between us. We don't get to talk as much as before, but we do try to get together once a month to walk and to talk about personal things and about work and its issues. Occasionally I can catch her in her office and we chat for a few minutes then, but work is always beckoning us so our chats are short. Sue helps me see the big picture on things involving my job. She listens to my rants and encourages me to 'hang on', changes may be coming down the road.
If I didn't share years ago about my call to ministry, that I felt that is where God was leading me, I would not begin and complete the process to become an ordained minister. I have shared my dream of being on staff at a church - a PAID staff member, so that I can give all my time to serving. In time, perhaps it will come to fruition. But then, was that God's dream for me, am I in the crockpot of waiting until time, or was it my dream because I love Him so much? Only time will tell.
If I hadn't shared I was looking for a job with my friend last year, she wouldn't have told me they had an opening and was I interested. I was, and I went through the normal procedures and received the job offer. I feel God has placed me here but I don't know why. I need to keep my mouth shut for now and listen to hear what He wants me to do here, besides all this work.
Do I have doubts along the way that God has called me to ministry due to all the frustrations that I have felt? Absolutely. I often begin to wonder if it was just me, was it just.... me. I don't think so, but feel that where I am now is where I am supposed to be. I can facilitate an adult class and I love doing that. I love helping others grow in their walk with Christ. Our new fall classes start next Wednesday and I am already praying people will come to the class. Last year I did a class and only one person showed up! But we did have class!! I enjoy teaching because it forces me to STUDY, to READ, to keep up on things I need to know. I have gotten so lax over the past few years. Oh I still read, but was disheartened by circumstances, so discouraged, that I was giving up. But now, I have something to look forward to once again. It encourages me.
And now a coworker has brought me some things to look at so I need to hush and help her. Perhaps that is what God has called me to do. At least for today.
Hope you have a wonderful day.
Blessings!
Thursday, August 22, 2013
I'm my own worst enemy!
Do you ever feel that way? That you critize yourself, beat yourself up? I feel like I have been doing that a lot lately. You feel that no matter how hard you try, you can't succeed? Everything you say gets taken the wrong way? The thought has occurred to me as I write this that most men would probably say that regarding relationships. It is hard work to have a good relationship. Trust me in this, it isn't just the men! Women have this difficulty too.
But some days feel worse than others. No, I'm not feeling that way - although I have been mulling over some relationship problems with my younger sister, while my older sister and I are getting along fairly well. Hubby and I are getting along pretty well so it isn't that.
Relationships here at work are good. I've chosen not to participate in a lot of the whining that goes on in any job setting, I imagine. I have people running to me with things and I listen and try to offer constructive advice, which isn't always successful. Sometimes I find myself drawn into things in that if they affect me or my job, I get frustrated. Right now though, I'm in a 'good place' I think. Work is easier now that I have been doing it for awhile and they aren't constantly making changes in how we do our work. They actually hired a temp to help me - which I don't need now and I keep telling them I don't need one. Working alone I am usually done by 5:30 and am out of here. I'm ok with that. But they insisted. So I'm trying this person and she seems to have picked up some things pretty well. My issue with all that is not that they hired a temp to help me, but now there will be two people with not enough work to keep busy. By myself I have a steady supply of work and it gets completed most every day. But, they won't listen to me so I have just kept quiet. When this new temp gets totally involved in all aspects, then I will ask for more work of another kind, and perhaps weed myself out of this job and into another.
I saw a friend in the hall the other day and he introduced me to his boss who was with him. Then Chris started telling his boss how "wonderful" I am. I just stood there and when he finished, I just looked at him and asked, "If I'm that good, when are you going to offer me a job?" His boss looked at him and said, let's go talk about this! Not that I expect anything to come from our joking conversation, and he is in another department, but I know that I have too much ambition and knowledge just to sit here and do what I do on a daily basis and then have time with nothing to do because of insistence on getting me help. I needed the help three months ago when I was working 25-30 hours a pay period overtime. Overtime is gone now - I even take a lunch hour and I don't start until 8AM. My 40 hour weeks are going to hurt the paycheck really bad.
I guess I am somewhat mellow this morning. I have gained 5 pounds since my challenge and I think it stuck all in my belly. That is "weighing" on me this morning. I didn't realize how bad it looked until yesterday. Somehow the outfit I had on emphasized my fat belly. Talk about dropping into depression!! I have got to get back on track. I tell myself to get on the treadmill first thing in the morning, but I don't. I tell myself to get on it at night, and I don't. I need to walk Marley - it would be good for both of us. Dark or not, I need to just go do it and if hubby wants to come along to protect me, it will be good for him too.
At my doctor visit last week, he was happy with my test results. As for my weight, he told me once again that the South Beach Diet is the best diet. He has told me that probably the last 3-4 years. I think about it, and then go chasing after another diet, after all, what could my doctor possibly know? I looked for my book last night, but I have a feeling it is one I have loaned out, packed away, or gotten rid of, thinking 'oh, I'll never do that'. I guess I need just just suck it up and look for a used copy somewhere and read it through this time.
Three - yes, THREE, of the women in my area are fat. I'm talking 200-300 pound fat. All three of them have made plans to have procedures to help them lose weight. Two are scheduled for the 'lap band' procedure (one this Friday) and another wants to have the gastric bypass surgery but the other two are trying to talk her out of it. Two-three days off work with the lap band procedure (non-invasive in a way) to six weeks with the gastric bypass. Duh. This person is the one who continually does her work incorrectly and watches videos, etc.
Are all three looking for quick fixes? I think two of them (the ones doing the lap band) have a good grip on why they are doing it, and have lost some weight on their own but are still heavy. The thing they don't consider, both of these women are tall and big boned. They don't exercise at all. I've seen their eating habits. One got a wake up call the first of the year and is doing better and doesn't eat much at least here at work. Nor does the other much. But the one wanting the gastric bypass continually eats large volumes of food. And I mean for approximately a 5'2" woman eating a foot long from Subway, walks in from lunch eating a large ice cream cone, and eating other things throughout the day - and she thinks the gastric bypass is going to take care of her issues? This woman takes about 10 different medications - mostly because of her weight! She needs to change her behavior in eating habits before even considering surgery. Ok - I'm off my soapbox.
I have no desire for someone to do something to my body when I know that if I will exercise and watch closely all that I eat, I will lose this weight. I have done it before. I can do it again. I just have to get out of this funk I'm in. I wish my children and grandchildren lived closer; they could walk Marley with me and just being with them would cause me to look forward to walking and getting out. Oh well.
I need to get my thoughts prepared for the day ahead of me and focus on it. Sorry if I have mellowed out on you today - but hope that it gives you also food for thought. All things are possible, if you believe. And I believe I can succeed. It's just sometimes hard to fly like an eagle when you work with a bunch of turkeys. Sorry - just had to say it!!
Hope that you have a wonderful, encouraging, productive day! I plan to! If I look for the good in others and encourage them, I know I will be encouraged as well. Try it. Encourage someone and be blessed!
Blessings!!
But some days feel worse than others. No, I'm not feeling that way - although I have been mulling over some relationship problems with my younger sister, while my older sister and I are getting along fairly well. Hubby and I are getting along pretty well so it isn't that.
Relationships here at work are good. I've chosen not to participate in a lot of the whining that goes on in any job setting, I imagine. I have people running to me with things and I listen and try to offer constructive advice, which isn't always successful. Sometimes I find myself drawn into things in that if they affect me or my job, I get frustrated. Right now though, I'm in a 'good place' I think. Work is easier now that I have been doing it for awhile and they aren't constantly making changes in how we do our work. They actually hired a temp to help me - which I don't need now and I keep telling them I don't need one. Working alone I am usually done by 5:30 and am out of here. I'm ok with that. But they insisted. So I'm trying this person and she seems to have picked up some things pretty well. My issue with all that is not that they hired a temp to help me, but now there will be two people with not enough work to keep busy. By myself I have a steady supply of work and it gets completed most every day. But, they won't listen to me so I have just kept quiet. When this new temp gets totally involved in all aspects, then I will ask for more work of another kind, and perhaps weed myself out of this job and into another.
I saw a friend in the hall the other day and he introduced me to his boss who was with him. Then Chris started telling his boss how "wonderful" I am. I just stood there and when he finished, I just looked at him and asked, "If I'm that good, when are you going to offer me a job?" His boss looked at him and said, let's go talk about this! Not that I expect anything to come from our joking conversation, and he is in another department, but I know that I have too much ambition and knowledge just to sit here and do what I do on a daily basis and then have time with nothing to do because of insistence on getting me help. I needed the help three months ago when I was working 25-30 hours a pay period overtime. Overtime is gone now - I even take a lunch hour and I don't start until 8AM. My 40 hour weeks are going to hurt the paycheck really bad.
I guess I am somewhat mellow this morning. I have gained 5 pounds since my challenge and I think it stuck all in my belly. That is "weighing" on me this morning. I didn't realize how bad it looked until yesterday. Somehow the outfit I had on emphasized my fat belly. Talk about dropping into depression!! I have got to get back on track. I tell myself to get on the treadmill first thing in the morning, but I don't. I tell myself to get on it at night, and I don't. I need to walk Marley - it would be good for both of us. Dark or not, I need to just go do it and if hubby wants to come along to protect me, it will be good for him too.
At my doctor visit last week, he was happy with my test results. As for my weight, he told me once again that the South Beach Diet is the best diet. He has told me that probably the last 3-4 years. I think about it, and then go chasing after another diet, after all, what could my doctor possibly know? I looked for my book last night, but I have a feeling it is one I have loaned out, packed away, or gotten rid of, thinking 'oh, I'll never do that'. I guess I need just just suck it up and look for a used copy somewhere and read it through this time.
Three - yes, THREE, of the women in my area are fat. I'm talking 200-300 pound fat. All three of them have made plans to have procedures to help them lose weight. Two are scheduled for the 'lap band' procedure (one this Friday) and another wants to have the gastric bypass surgery but the other two are trying to talk her out of it. Two-three days off work with the lap band procedure (non-invasive in a way) to six weeks with the gastric bypass. Duh. This person is the one who continually does her work incorrectly and watches videos, etc.
Are all three looking for quick fixes? I think two of them (the ones doing the lap band) have a good grip on why they are doing it, and have lost some weight on their own but are still heavy. The thing they don't consider, both of these women are tall and big boned. They don't exercise at all. I've seen their eating habits. One got a wake up call the first of the year and is doing better and doesn't eat much at least here at work. Nor does the other much. But the one wanting the gastric bypass continually eats large volumes of food. And I mean for approximately a 5'2" woman eating a foot long from Subway, walks in from lunch eating a large ice cream cone, and eating other things throughout the day - and she thinks the gastric bypass is going to take care of her issues? This woman takes about 10 different medications - mostly because of her weight! She needs to change her behavior in eating habits before even considering surgery. Ok - I'm off my soapbox.
I have no desire for someone to do something to my body when I know that if I will exercise and watch closely all that I eat, I will lose this weight. I have done it before. I can do it again. I just have to get out of this funk I'm in. I wish my children and grandchildren lived closer; they could walk Marley with me and just being with them would cause me to look forward to walking and getting out. Oh well.
I need to get my thoughts prepared for the day ahead of me and focus on it. Sorry if I have mellowed out on you today - but hope that it gives you also food for thought. All things are possible, if you believe. And I believe I can succeed. It's just sometimes hard to fly like an eagle when you work with a bunch of turkeys. Sorry - just had to say it!!
Hope that you have a wonderful, encouraging, productive day! I plan to! If I look for the good in others and encourage them, I know I will be encouraged as well. Try it. Encourage someone and be blessed!
Blessings!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)