Under His Wings

The Day I Gained Everything

2011-09-18T21:15:00.001-04:00

My life is pretty simple, non-plus and organized. I don't like change, I only like consistency. For those of you who automatically dislike this fact, please read on, as this is about to change. I categorize and label everything, am up to speed on the laundry and cleaning, and am even a superwoman animal owner (2 cats, 2 dogs, 2 guinea pigs). My home life consists of cooking, cleaning, backyard bonfires, moderate exercise, and sending an extensive amount of love to my animals. Nothing crazy, unexpected or out of the ordinary; routine.

When it rains it pores; and it did this year upon my uninteresting life.

In 2010, underwent Lap Band surgery to aid as a tool in my weight loss journey. The pounds fell of swimmingly until the start of 2011. I was stuck in a metabolic plateau, something of a nightmare for a Lap Bander. No matter the exercise, no matter the food, my belly was not moving. This year, my body stopped losing with 30 pounds to go until I met my goal. I was, in nicer terms, frustrated.

I was presented with an opportunity that fell in to my jiggly lap- one I couldn’t pass up. A house I had my eye on for a while was privately for sale at an affordable price. I explored the options and decided to see about finalizing the deal. Time was tight; I had to make quick-footed decisions in order to move out of my apartment and rent from the seller until things were solidified. Things happened so fast: the painting, the cleaning, the yard work, the time, the effort. I moved in with full excitement. Then one day, I found out that the finalization process had been delayed. All the sudden I was in limbo, my living arrangements, my labeled categories, my organized life. What if I had made all of those quick-footed decisions for something that ultimately may not work out? My faith in the loan companies grew weaker, my faith in my decision making abilities were up for question. I’m 100% honest when I say that not 5 seconds went by for the past 3 months without me having anxiety about the house process. Everything was out of my hands.

Just about when things were about to tank in the “I’m Sane” department, my life took another blow: my best friend was moving away. Presented with a God-given opportunity of her own, she’s following her calling into missions. She and I have been buddies since infancy, us both being blessed by being a ‘multiple’ (I’m a twin, she’s a triplet). We have shared our childhoods together, took a brief break through high school and college, and re-united in a healthy friendship. Since then, we’ve experienced a lot together: working together, natural disasters, business and fun trips, and even tragedy. Our transformation in Christ has been the binding cord between us. She found out she’d be leaving in two weeks (which is actually tomorrow). My heart skipped with joy and fell with sorrow. Of course we’ll see each other, but have to endure an 8 hour car-ride to do so. The day came when I had to say farewell; I trucked through with typical fortitude. But as I was turning around to leave, my heart was gripped with grief like none I had experienced.

My life had been thrown for a loop. No weight loss, living in a house that may not be mine after much hard work, and my best friend relocating in a different state.

I had been battling with surrendering control at the foot of the cross for the whole process. There wasn’t a day that went by that things got any easier. Battling with something so inert, so embedded, so strongly woven in my core.

I could not control anything. And I was a mess.

Then one day, everything happened all at once.

Like a whirlwind of fury: the day I gained everything. The morning started with the usual anxiety: checking my phone every few minutes to make sure I hadn’t missed an email or call from the loan company. In my trek to work that morning, my life started to tip like a roller coaster on the first lilt.

An email came. THE email I had been waiting for. I couldn’t see because of the tears clouding my vision, but it was a good email. Good news. In shock, I sort of forgot to breathe. Work was a blur. I fell on my face thanking Jesus for His faithfulness.

A joy came. A joy that cannot come from any other than Jesus. His comfort about my best friend shrouded me in a blanket of hope. I felt bittersweet about how things will settle in over the next few months with her absence; but I had a strong confirmation of happiness; of resoluteness.

A number read on the scale. The first time stepping on the dreaded scale in a month. My weight had changed in a good direction. This was shocking considering the plateau I had been experiencing. Maybe it was all the anxiety and grief, I’m not certain. But hey, I’ll take it! Suddenly, I started to have faith in myself.

This story is all about perspective. God is doing something in my life. Like a painting, if you look too close, you can’t see anything but pixilated duress; I am too close to my situation. I can’t say what my painting looks like, but I do know it’s going to be beautiful. My ordinary life was turned, churned, and burned in a short amount of time. Replaced with a chaotic life, the faithfulness of God was discovered. Sometimes it takes a nudge to see things in a different perspective.

Thanks for reading,

Sarah

Something I needed to hear..

2011-06-23T10:59:00.003-04:00

"Let My love stream through you, washing away fear and distrust. A trusting response includes Me in your thoughts as you consider strategies to deal with a situation. My continual Presence is a promise, guaranteeing that you never have to face anything alone. My children teethe on the truth that I am always with with them., yet they stumble around in a stupor, unaware of my loving Presence all around them. How that grieves Me!

When you walk through a day in trusting dependence on Me, My aching heart is soothed. Gently bring your attention back to Me whenever it wanders away. I look for persistence- rather than perfection- in your walk with Me."

Psalm 52:8, "But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever."

Deuteronomy 31:6, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

Ephesians 4:30, "And do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption."

-adapted from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

DOMINOS

2011-06-22T19:16:00.000-04:00

Step One: God sets up a beautiful style of DOMINOS in a design we can't even see from our perspective.

Step Two: Sometimes God rearranges these DOMINOS as He has always known He would. Whether this be allowing Satan to move, push, or take away a few, God always knows best for your purpose.

Step Three: Allow the rearranging, falling, and even tipping of these DOMINOS to happen. take a deep breath during this step. You'll need it. Let your anxieties peak without freaking out, allowing your brain to understand that this situation has a purpose. Let your fears be released. Let your doubt be erased and replaced with TRUTH.

Step Four: The DOMINOS all have a purpose in your life. God is moving them as always planned. Let it happen and don't be a control freak.

He knows my doubt.

Darting Arrows

2011-06-15T14:01:00.002-04:00

This morning on my way to the office, the famous Cook Mrs. Paula Dean herself was interviewed on HIS Radio WRTP. She simply tickles me! Her optimism and joy for family and comfort thrill me. Although, I'm sure eating all those yummy foods would get me at some point, if you know what I mean. She was talking about how many shows she's been on recently, her new restaurant, and the joys of her family. She chuckled and said,

"You know how you can't hit a moving target? Well I just don't stop movin'!"

How true is this for most of us? We are afraid it will all catch up with us if we slow down. It ends up being a viscious cycle if you think about it: you stress if you slow down, you stress when you speed up; then eventually you simply crash.

If you are darting from the arrows of stress, where do you go?

Who do you turn to?

What are your patterns?

Some of us eat, some of us yell, some of us sleep. Either way, this whole dance of darting the arrows causes a lot of stress for you and for the people around you.

What do you think would happen if you slowed down?

What is the worst thing that could happen?

What is the best thing that could happen?

What is another viewpoint on slowing down?

Keep on diggin'! Keep on asking and answering. This way you will get a clearer picture as to the core issue.

Get that armor off, quit running in the wrong direction. Slow down!

Say YES to the POTTER!

2011-04-07T09:41:00.004-04:00

April 7th:

"I am the potter; you are My clay. I designed you before the foundation of the world. I arrange the events of each day to form you into this preconceived pattern. My everlasting Love is at work in every event in your life. On some days your will and Mine flow smoothly together. You tend to feel in control of your life when our wills are in harmony. On other days you feel as if you are swimming upstream, against the current of My purposes. When that happens, stop and seek My Face. The opposition you feel may be from Me, or it may be from the evil one.

Talk with Me about what you are experiencing. Let My Spirit guide you through treacherous waters. As you move through the turbulent stream with Me, let circumstances mold you into the one I desire you to be. Say yes to your Potter as you go through this day."

Isaiah 64:8, " Yet you, LORD, are our Father.

We are the clay, you are the potter;
we are all the work of your hand."

Psalm 27:8, "My heart says of you, “Seek his face!”

Your face, LORD, I will seek."

Young, Sarah. (2004). Jesus Calling: Devotions for Every Day of the Year- Enjoying Peace in His Presence.

Jeanne Jolly - "Hallelujah" 4/1/11

2011-04-03T19:04:00.000-04:00

Chronic Pain: Coping Strategies

2011-03-29T12:10:00.000-04:00

Pain is the body’s way of sounding our internal alarm. It says, “Stop, you’re going too far, you’re doing too much, this is dangerous.” Without these warnings, you could be in serious trouble! Everyone’s pain tolerance is different- some can handle more bodily stress than others. When pain supersedes your tolerance with a daily or triggered experience due to a past injury or unidentified condition, chronic pain is usually a suspect.

In my previous blog, we identified chronic pain. UNDERSTANDING chronic pain is actually the first coping strategy with this every day battle. If you don’t know you have it, you can’t cope! Side note, I am not a doctor and this blog is not to be used to diagnose or suggest that you have chronic pain. If you have not been diagnosed with chronic pain, and suspect that this may be the case, please see your doctor. Grab some materials and resources and learn how your body is reacting to this pain. Get to know your body, your pain tolerance, what you can and can’t do. This first step of understanding is sort of like getting to know an irritating friend! Knowing your patterns, your triggers etc. will all help you live a fuller life with chronic pain. You are not isolated, you are not alone, and you are not helpless to this condition.

The second coping strategy is REST: mixed with finding peace and managing your stress and emotions. The big bad monster called stress causes muscle tension, mental tension, and a myriad of intense chemical reactions within the body. Take care of this monster, and your tension will melt away. Deep breathing, stretching however you can, and most of all- resting! Chronic pain is not an excuse to avoid action- it’s the opposite! Even on the days you can’t walk or get out of bed, work on your inner stress. Prayer, meditation, peaceful music and journaling are all great ways to getting started on the journey to inner and outer peace. Leave your worries, your pain and stress at the foot of the cross during prayer. Leave them there, don’t take them back. The more you give your pain away, the more emotional room you are creating! You’d be surprised how this positive reaction to pain will help physically and emotionally!

The third coping strategy is a mix of relational and physical activity, but more simplified: ACTION. Once you’ve rested up, supporting yourself with other’s company and encouragement is a necessity. It’s so easy to isolate yourself during spells of pain, not only can it be embarrassing and humiliating, but it can also be an easy excuse to separate yourself from the one’s you love. Be willing to keep a strong connection with someone. Every superhero needs a sidekick. Any sort of relational interaction lifts the spirits. I spend a lot of time with my dog, a boxer named Indiana Jones. Even when I’m in pain, he gets me up to walk him, play, and even get silly! The second area of this coping strategy incorporates physical activity. Please consult your doctor for specific advice on your activity level. Anything active gets your dopamine levels (the “feel good” chemicals) to raise and help ease the pain. Get out and have a good time with a friend, your pet. Get outside and enjoy nature, rejoice in something beautiful. One of my best coping strategies is LAUGHING!! Laugh; laugh some more, and laugh even more after that. Just remember that positivity can kill stress, negative thoughts, and even help with pain management.

Finally, HOPE: Never give up! There are so many new drugs, therapies, and studies going on continually regarding different aspects of chronic pain. Don’t give up hope for new therapies. Also, chronic pain can sometimes drag you down in the dirt with it. Don’t give up hope for yourself- fight depression, stress and anxiety. Teach yourself new ways of thinking and coping. Don’t waste away! This life is precious, so, so precious. Your body may be affected by pain, but do not let your life be wasted because of it. You can do it!!

Chronic Pain: A Series. Pt. 1: What is it?

2011-03-18T10:29:00.004-04:00

Chronic pain is a wide spread problem mainly among older adults. However, over the past five years chronic pain has been statistically proven to be prevalent in younger adults. I have my own definition, but academically let’s define chronic pain. The American Academy of Pain Medicine defines chronic pain as, “Pain signals keep firing in the nervous system for weeks, months, even years. There may have been an initial mishap -- sprained back, serious infection, or there may be an ongoing cause of pain -- arthritis, cancer, ear infection, but some people suffer chronic pain in the absence of any past injury or evidence of body damage.” Yikes! This is an area inside of medicine that is not fully understood or quickly able to diagnose. Just to give you a better perspective: 76.2 million suffer from chronic pain in contrast to 11 million from cancer!

So, enough about the clinical stuff. If you are one of the 76.2 million who suffer from chronic pain, you’re probably tired of definitions, doctors, medication trial and error, and the financial strain. In fact, you’re probably sick of feeling sick! Maybe you’re tired and depressed from the strain chronic pain has put on your body.

My story with chronic pain is lengthy and would require a 10 part series by itself. So, I’ll shoot for the abbreviated version. For years I saw doctor after doctor, tried medication after medication with no return. I even started to doubt if my pain was even real. Some days, I was just fine. I could go to my college classes, be active, and even feel normal. Other days I couldn’t get out of bed, had to use the dreaded cane to walk, and missed many college classes. I don’t know how many MRI’s, Nerve Conduction Tests, X-Rays, blood tests it took for me to realize that this pain was stress related. No two doctors told me the same results, many of them telling me my pain was not related to anything physically diagnosable.

I could say that I found answers but none of them the remedy to the pain. I think the majority of what I’ve learned about chronic pain is accepting the good and bad days. Thank God for my family, my employer, and my friends for understanding this as well.

As stated earlier, chronic pain is not easily understood. Most of the time it’s triggered by an injury or an event in one’s life thus causing a mishap in the nervous system. Neuropathy, fibromyalgia, migraines, edema and fatigue are all chronic pain mysteries.

I wanted to go ahead and introduce this subject before continuing.The next part in this series of chronic pain will discuss key components coping with this every day battle.

References

American Academy of Pain Medicine. (2011). AAPM Facts and Figures on Pain. Found online March 18 2011 at http://www.painmed.org/patient/facts.html.

Coping with Chronic Pain Intro

2011-03-14T12:12:00.003-04:00

Pain is a mysterious thing. Especially if it's not something you can control. Mystery turns into frustration, then agony, and ultimately depression. For those of us dealing with chronic pain, this cycle of remorse is nothing new to us. I've began to label days not by the day of the week (Monday, Tuesday etc). but simply into Good Day or Bad Day. Before I begin this journey into such a widely effected issue, I want to say have patience with me and my writing. This subject in particular is ever present- almost like the air around me. For me to interpret these sensations, thoughts, emotions, and conflicts is a little harder than I thought.

So for now, I'm putting my 'feelers' out there to try to sort out this messy topic.

More to come....

How’s Your Body Language?

2011-03-07T18:44:00.000-05:00

How’s Your Body Language?: "3 Mar 2011"

Check out the above link for tips on Body Language from Pendaflex!

Overpacked

2011-02-17T13:05:00.004-05:00

I recently traveled for my birthday on my first 'mid-west' trip to Michigan to visit friends. I had heard horror stories about the weather out there this time of year: snow, winds, and sub-zero temps. What the heck is a girl from North Carolina suppose to pack on a trip like this??

I hate second guessing baggage claim at the airports if I have a connecting flight. Will my bag actually make it on my plane or will it get lost in the mayhem? With this thought, I decided to concentrate on my first 'carry-on only' flight. Since my trip was only for 4 days, I thought I could manage with a backpack and a purse.

But then, I thought about the weather. I figured a parka was a must, plus a medium jacket, and a light weight one. In addition to jackets, there are those winter necessities: gloves, hats, scarves, boots, socks. Don't forget clothes and toiletries!! After a miracle moment, my backpack actually closed with all the above items. I even brought my fancy camera and a gift for my friend. Amazing! I felt prepared, ready, and above all- warm!

Stepping out of the Detroit airport, I was greeted with a couple feet of dirty snow, winds blasting my face off, and shocking temps. I was ready. For one night anyways, I was cozy warm. The first night was icy, snowy, and I felt my breath was freezing in my lungs. But the next morning, and every morning following, I woke up to decent temps: 40's and sunshine. Really?! I began to feel over-prepared and a little silly for all the packing worries.

My backpack was heavy, full to the bursting point, and above all: unnecessary.

How many times to we fill our own thought life with unnecessary worries and stresses? Maybe you're just trying to feel prepared for the journey ahead; maybe you're worried that you'll be caught off guard and put in a vulnerable position. What if this armor we put up is actually holding us down? Your emotions will be affected by these superfluous worries: increased anxiety, irritability, sleep problems, etc.

I could say something cheesy like, "Throw your backpack down" or "Only pack the necessities" or something along those lines. But the reality is that most of us have no idea what our bare necessities are when it comes to our thought life. Our minds simply run rampant. So instead of a list of ideas to minimize stress in your head, what about simply asking, "What is the root of this thought?"

If the roots of your thoughts tend to be grounded in anxiety, performance stress, self-esteem, or fear- would you want to hold on to all of that? Not me! It's alright to be prepared for 'winter weather,' but only to a certain extent. Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

1. Is this thought healthy?

2. What is this thought trying to accomplish? What is the end result?

3. How will this thought or worry affect me the rest of today?

4. Am I going to put up with myself thinking this thought?

Don't be surprised if you start making some changes!

Operation Beautiful 2010.wmv

2011-02-16T16:22:00.000-05:00

How Do I Go Public With My Sexual Struggles?

2011-02-14T17:40:00.000-05:00

How Do I Go Public With My Sexual Struggles?

Words of Encouragement for Today

2011-02-10T10:00:00.003-05:00

February 10th 2011

"Trust me enough to spend ample time with Me, pushing back the demands of the day. Refuse to feel guilty about something that is so pleasing to Me, the King of the universe. Because I am omnipotent, I am able to bend time and events in your favor. You will find that you can accomplish more in less time, after you have given yourself to Me in rich communion. Also, as you align yourself with My perspective, you can sort out what is important and what is not.

Don't fall into the trap of being constantly on the go. Many, many things people do in My Name have no value in My kingdom. To avoid doing meaningless works, stay in continual communication with Me. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you."

Luke 10:41-42, "Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, ⁴² but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

Psalm 32:8, "I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you."

Young, Sarah. (2004). Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence. February 10.

Glittery Gifts

2010-12-02T16:51:00.004-05:00

Christmas is my favorite Holiday. I love to organize, decorate, make things cozy, and bundle up in my house. I love to give- not just 'stuff' and presents, but happiness, companionship, friendship and hospitality. When I was a tike, I would make these enormous glittery holiday cards and decorate random objects that suddenly became beautiful. A pine cone adorned with glitter and paint suddenly was the most beautiful thing hanging from the tree; string of popcorn with cranberries left out to the birds was the coolest gift; wrapping and re-wrapping my presents just because I was so excited to give them.

The traditions of Christmas can cause symptoms of coveting, greed, overspending, a spirit of busyness, or general malaise. Sometimes we can get too focused on what we're going to 'get' instead of what we're going to give. In Genesis is a great story about giving: Cain (a prosperous farmer) and his brother Abel (a simple shepherd) were called by God to give their best to God. In those days, sacrifices were the standard. Cain decided to give God his second-best crops (because he wanted to keep the best for himself). Abel brought God his best livestock. God then accepted Abel's give because it was given from a pure heart. Rejecting Cain's crops, God favored Abel's gift. The story ends with Cain getting ticked off and killing his younger brother. Whoops!

I'm not suggesting giving all your best things away for Christmas.I'm not suggesting to go buy top-dollar gifts either. This is more about the motive of your heart. People come and go, gifts to others are thoughtful in the moment and tradition of Christmas; God is eternal. What are you bringing Him? Is it your second-best? Are you trying to keep something to yourself this Christmas?

Glittery presents and beautiful gifts are of this world, they will one day be thrown away, given to the Goodwill, and eventually become buried with all our trash. Don't focus on the external.

In what ways would you change your heart this Christmas?

Be glittery on the inside too!

Gratitude Worksheet

2010-11-25T23:31:00.000-05:00

In the spirit of Thanksgiving Day- check out this worksheet about Gratitude!

Gratitude Worksheet

Your Relationship Determines How you Feel Toward God

2010-11-18T12:07:00.006-05:00

Check out this link from CNN about how your relationship might determine how you feel towards God.

Written by Liberty University's own: Tim Clinton and Joshua Straub.

Get Rid of Emotional Junk!

2010-11-15T19:19:00.003-05:00

How much baggage do you carry around with you? If you could put all your emotional pains, relational hurts, and self-esteem or boundary issues in a bag- would it be heavy?

Do you think hauling all that junk around effects those around you? What about in your relationships- your marriage, parenting, dating, friendship...

Most of the time we unknowingly carry around these hurts and pains from memory lane. Other times, we simply need an "update" in our Recycle Bin of recent events. No matter the situation, we DO carry baggage. What would happen if you dropped it?

Maybe feeling like you need a resource?

Georgia Shaffer is a licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania and a certified life coach with over 19 years of experience. Georgia's new book, "Taking out your emotional trash: Face your feelings and build healthy relationships" is flying off the shelves! With permission from the Georgia, who would like to take a quiz to see if you need to "Dump Your Junk?!"

Here's the link to Georgia's site which includes her book information. Check it out, and take the quiz! http://www.GeorgiaShaffer.com

Falling in love with Fall...

2010-11-12T13:10:00.005-05:00

When I was a little girl, I can remember making "leaf forts" with the leaves that our parents "let" us rake. My twin brother and I would make a skeleton out of bark, limbs, anything we could find and then stuff these colorful, crispy leaves into the structure. Believe it or not, these forts were pretty strong and actually really awesome. I can remember laying inside of one of our forts gazing up through the bright leaves into the crisp blue chilled sky. What a memory! I love fall. I love the memories it evokes.

I have had the blessed opportunity to experience the Fall Season twice. I was in upstate New York in early October where the leaves were on fire with brilliance. This week, here in good 'ole North Carolina, the trees are so beautiful and bright- they are literally distracting. I can't really drive as well as I ought because I'm focused on such beautiful, clear colors.

Someone told me the amazing chemistry behind the changing of leaves- something about the how the glucose in the leaves gets trapped when the photosynthesis stops (the signal of winter: shorter days and light). The trees "know" when to stop chemical exchange, thus leading to the changing of colors and eventually they fall off. Awesome, huh?

This season, like every other, seems so short- like it had just begun a couple days ago. Yet in a couple of weeks, these trees around me will become bare bones, exposing their skeletons to all. I could say the usual "life is short, like the seasons so enjoy it while you have it" kind of thing; I'm feeling more pulled to say simply that our earth is beautiful. Still cheesy, yet it's what I have been thinking every day when I see these colors.

The things God created, what they do, what they look like in these short seasons- are simply BEAUTIFUL.

A Gift for Today

2010-10-06T13:13:00.002-04:00

October 6: Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

"Be willing to follow wherever I lead. Follow Me wholeheartedly, with glad anticipation quickening your pace. Though you don't know what lies ahead, I know; and that is enough! Some of My richest blessings are just around the bend: out of sign, but nonetheless very real. To receive these gifts, you must walk by faith- not by sight. This doesn't mean closing your eyes to what is all around you. It means subordinating the visible world to the invisible Shepherd of your soul.

Sometimes I lead you up a high mountain with only My hand to support you. The higher you climb, the more spectacular the view becomes; also, the more keenly you sense your separation from the world with all its problems. This frees you to experience exuberantly the joyous reality of My Presence. Give yourself fully to these Glory-moments, awash in dazzling Light. I will eventually lead you down the mountain, back into community with others. Let My Light continue to shine within you as you walk among people again."

-2 Corinthians 5:7

-Psalm 96:6

-John 8:12

-Psalm 36:9

There Once Was A Gull...

2010-09-19T15:05:00.004-04:00

I kept wondering why most of the sea gulls had only one leg: a stump very much like a pirates wooden leg. I watched for days as these gulls would hobble along the beach, trying to balance their barrel of a body on only one full foot. Their stump would try to find a shift in the dunes just at the right place in order to create balance. These gulls couldn't even run for the take off. They somehow had adapted to simply lifting their wings and taking off from their stance.

On one of the last days at the beach, I sat watching in horror as a gull landed with both feet tangled together in fishing wire. It must have been fairly recent. He could barely walk, hobbling with little leverage. I ran back with bread to try to lure him so I could break his chains. I saw what would come of him: losing at least one of his legs. Only I could save him with the proper intervention. I couldn't do anything for the seagull and I felt horrible, sad, and powerless.

Sometimes we don't even see the fishing wire that we've naturally wrapped around our spiritual legs. Sometimes we don't even feel the effect of our slowness, our prison. What a sorry sight we must be sometimes- barely getting by with years of guilty and innocent wire impeding our forward motion. We naturally throw ourselves in traps. Sometimes we do it because the rest of the flock leads us there, sometimes because we're simply stupid.

Only Jesus can cut the bonds of your sins. Imagine the freedom!!!!! Imagine the ability to fly with both legs free. What if we quite being skeptical and fearful of His help- what if we simply surrendered to it? I ask many questions because I want you to imagine things from a different perspective. Of course it's hard to imagine a life without chains if that's all you've known.

Don't turn away.

Vegetate

2010-08-30T21:19:00.005-04:00

Sometimes, I get home and simply vegetate. I don't watch TV, I don't get on the computer. No reading, no writing. I simply pause. What's wrong with this picture?

Nothing! After day after day of tasks and busywork, taking an hour to stop everything is OK. Is this considered laziness? Absolutely not. Laziness conjures images of

procrastination and avoidance. For us TYPE A personality folks, vegetating for a brief time period is actually recommended. This creates mental space in your brain, physical healing in your body, and a "re-balancing" effect on your perspective.

When you vegetate, try not to start creating lists- the point of pausing is to STOP thinking about tasks left undone. The point is to find this empty space (it's somewhere deep down in there). What might you find? A moment of peace? Hmm....

The perfect example: my dog Indiana Jones. He's "full steam ahead" during the day- running after squirrels, trying to climb trees, swimming in the baby pool, and generally doing his "doggy" stuff. He's a busy boy- something is always happening. But every now and again something strange happens: He goes on "Screen Saver Mode." His neck literally drops while he's standing- his eyes focused on something far away. He could stay like this for up to 5 minutes. He is pausing. Resting his neck. (this has nothing to do with him being a bird dog- although he does "point").

Some of you may have no trouble with taking 10 minutes to look into the deep space galaxy of the ceiling. Some of you may have no quarrels with veggin' out on the sofa in your living room (dubbed "The Barge"). This message is for those of us who do:

Allow yourself.

Even the Energizer Bunny takes a breather..

Facts About Adrenaline

2010-08-26T13:24:00.003-04:00

Years ago I was diagnosed with complete adrenal failure. Apparently, due to my driven nature, I literally ran my adrenal glands dry. The little glands, located above your kidneys are about the size of grapes. They produce cortisol and help control energy levels in the body. After blood work and saliva tests, we figured out that mine were dry! They had stopped producing these chemicals. So this is why I was feeling tired so often! This is why I was so busy-natured and "energizer bunny" nonstop action. So I was doing some research about addictions, and up popped Adrenaline Addiction. I had no idea what it was- but just wanted to share!

Did you know that Adrenaline can be an addiction? It manifests in excessive television, internet usage, shopping, arguing etc. The adrenal glands were designed for emergencies only!! None of this long-term usage that we get caught up in.

Adrenal glands produce cortisol: adrenaline affects the heart; cortisol affects the brain. Stress is the root of all adrenaline addiction. There are emotional consequences to adrenaline addiction and people often experience physical consequences. The underlying cause for adrenaline addiction are:

The need to numb painful feelings
Crisis of meaninglessness
Crisis of purposelessness

The symptoms of adrenaline addiction include obsessing over things left undone, feelings of guilt when idle, strong compulsion to be doing something all the time. People should face emotions directly because this can confront the underlying issues inside of adrenaline addiction.

Recovery:

People recovering from adrenaline addiction will often have important changes to make. According to Dr. Hart, worship and relaxation should offer peacefulness. Try to:

Manage adrenaline
Pay attention to physical symptoms of stress: sleep issues, depression, fatigue, restlessness

Some important changes to make when dealing with adrenaline addiction:

Lifestyle changes
Personality changes
Enhance peacefulness
Incorporate healthy physical changes
Disengagement strategies
Anger Control

Practical Suggestions include:

Face emotions directly
Learn to live within limits
Create healthy boundaries
Allow yourself to slow down: It's ok to rest!

Resources: Addiction and Recovery. Dr. Archibald Hart. Light University.

September 11

2010-08-24T10:59:00.005-04:00

The time around September 11th is tender to our country. It's a time to remember, pause, and look ahead. I feel great sadness for all the lives that were lost on this day. The death toll of the attacks was 2,995, including the 19 hijackers. The overwhelming majority of casualties were civilians, including nationals of over 70 countries. I feel intense anger towards the action of those who planned it. Ultimately, I feel an urge to share Jesus with such people. I feel a deeper sadness longing for the souls that were lost on this day.

I feel vulnerable, uncertain, paranoid, and unsafe around this time of year: fear of another attack. Oddly enough, I always travel during this time. I see the protection our country is exhibiting, the effect this attack has tolled- a constant reminder of my safety. On the same note, I know our country has come a long way since that morning in 2001. Within my soul, I know that God's hand was protecting our country from even worse destruction on that day. Sometimes it's hard to see a kind and gracious God in attacks as horrible as this. Why does God let bad things happen to His people?

I know God is involved in everything. His love is deeper than anything imaginable. His plans are wider and higher than anyone's. I must believe that God's hand was on the pulse of the nation to bring comfort in our sadness and bring us closer. This is our God: A God of purpose, comfort, direction, compassion, and guidance. He is the One we have waited for.

God cannot be put in a box of labels. I cannot with a right mind say, "Oh- God planned this" or "God let this happen." God does big things, bigger than any of us can foresee. His ways are unknowable. I am passionate about leaning closer to Him every day. My feelings of anger, vulnerability, and uncertainty are in my sinful nature: I know that people in theirs can do bad things. My trust lies in Jesus Christ. Above anyone else in this world, He is the one that I rely on for my comfort and counsel.

In our human nature, we are capable of horrible things. We create rubble, destruction, death. This is expected of such a fallen world. We all feel the toll of other's sinful natures. We all fall ourselves. Jesus died to save us from this destruction. His nature is redemptive. No matter the sins of the nation, He forgives his children.

Looking ahead, I must accept His whisper saying, "My child, I love you. My child, I protect you. My child, I died for you."

Freedom and Flow..: Snakes and Butterflies

2010-08-22T22:46:00.000-04:00

Check this posting out: Freedom and Flow..: Snakes and Butterflies

August 18 2010

2010-08-18T13:21:00.004-04:00

"Expect to encounter adversity in your life, remembering that you live in a deeply fallen world. Stop trying to find a way that circumvents difficulties. The main problem with an easy life is that it masks your need for Me. When you became a Christian, I infused My very Life into you, empowering you to live on a supernatural plane by depending on Me.

Anticipate coming face to face with impossibilities: situations totally beyond your ability to handle. This awareness of your inadequacy is not something you should try to evade. It is precisely where I want you- the best place to encounter Me in My Glory and Power. When you see armies of problems marching toward you, cry out to Me! Allow Me to fight for you. What Me working on your behalf, as you rest in the shadow of My Almighty Presence.

-Rev. 19:1; Psalm 91:1"

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

It's Ok to Question Yourself

2010-08-13T18:09:00.005-04:00

I guess being a coach always has me asking questions. Questions to challenge, to grow, to create.

I challenge myself every day:

How can I best be used by God?
How can I step outside my comfort zone to show His light to others?
When should I say yes or no?
How can I better understand His Word in me?
How can I use every minute to spread this Love?

I grow myself every day:

How can I keep walking in Him?
Why should I be uncomfortable being stagnant?
When can I use my gifts to further His kingdom?
What is He trying to show me RIGHT NOW?
When is it Him and when is it me?

I create myself every day:

When should I rest in Him?
When should I try a different perspective?
What does heaven on earth look like?
How can I show His Love in a new way? See it in a new way?
How can I capture this Joy to show to others? In what words?
How can I express this stream of Peace that deepens every day?

Question yourself every day. Become satisfied with movement in Him. If you try to move without Him, you'll find yourself stuck, worn out, confused and broken. Only Jesus can heal and lift you into your purpose. Keep searching- Jesus' blessings are everywhere.

Chaos

2010-07-24T20:58:00.003-04:00

We are born into a world of chaos. Pure, utter, insanity. Violence, crimes, decisions, and not to mention "free will." I've been doing a lot of thinking about our little friend, free will. Not to be confused with the great Free Willy. We come out of the womb, such a peaceful and blessed sanctuary: quiet, floating, everything is provided (unless you're a twin, like me- it was crowded). Why does it all change so drastically?

Recently, I lost a family member to cancer. Of course I was plagued with anger, questions and doubt. Why did this happen? Why isn't this person still in our lives? What is the purpose of pain? So many questions for such a complicated situation. This person didn't choose to die. There was no free will involved. It was supernatural. So why do bad things happen to good people? The classic question. I could give you pat answers- tell you something fluffy and comfy, but it won't solve the question. It's in our nature to get attached to people- it's in the recipe. When we choose to ignore this, try to do it on our own, that's when things get ugly.

Because there is only One answer. We are finite beings, beginning in the time when Adam and Eve sinned. Free will was introduced, the decay of man, and ultimately a fallen world full of evil, sin, doubt, and anger. Making mistakes, choosing wrong paths, and negative feelings are all part of the world we live in. But it doesn't have to be all bad. We don't have to choose it.

What if we live in a world where in all the chaos, God is Sovereign? What if we choose the right path? What if we can experience the love and peace of Jesus Christ? What if there was only One solution?

Life will always be hard. There is no avoiding it. I have no idea why people get sick, experience horrible crimes or hurt, or why lives end. In all this searching for the answers- I seemed to have gotten myself off track. All it did was create doubt. Inner chaos.

What if all these things that happen is God speaking? What if sometimes He speaks loudly to get my attention? What if He speaks softly or not at all in times of silence? What if it's Him?

Doubt only throws you further from your Path. Replace doubt with listening to Him. The act of searching for truth is not wrong, but may cause you to veer further from Joy.

Knitting: one stitch into another, row after row..I may never see the mistakes, the holes, unless I'm further along in my pattern. Perspective. Everyone is connected, every situation affects another. What if in all this chaos, He is constituting and guiding each stitch, each mistake, each ripple? What if the pattern, in perspective (holes and all) are unspeakably beautiful?

What if in all this chaos of stress and doubt, we find Him? What if in chaos, we find out how much more capable we are? Every day we'll face things that we cannot foresee. You can't avoid them. You have to adapt and keep going!

God created the universe to be kinetic. Every day you have to make a choice- to make it better or worse (see the Chaos theory for scientific mumbo jumbo). Of course our choosing of sin is in our born nature, but who's to say we can't counterbalance that with the nature of God? Peace, joy, understanding, provision, reflection, and FAITH.

When you're stuck, don't try to rely on yourself or you'll keep going in ridiculous circles. God created us to rely on other people (healthy ones) and ultimately to rely on Him for strength, wisdom and faith. The inner chaos is a dance. You just have to decide who is your Partner- who leads.

Crunched for Time?

2010-06-24T15:12:00.004-04:00

'...To whom does my time belong? Typically, we view time as our own. When Jesus comes into the picture, that often begins to change. He turns us outward and begins to make us mindful of the needs of others. As we heed Jesus' call to love our neighbors as ourselves, we start to shift from thinking of time as our own to seeing time as belonging to the person in our path.

...A saying goes, 'God put me on earth to accomplish certain things. Right now I'm so far behind I think I'll never die.'

Has God given us enough time? No, not if through our busyness we are trying to find significance or fill boredom or cover pain or gain acceptance or safeguard our futures (or those of our children). However, there is all the time in the world for us to do those things to which God calls us. Time to pray. Time to enjoy God. Time to sleep. Time to further the kingdom. Even time to turn around and pick up a man walking home in the rain.

The claim that God gives us enough time to do those things to which He calls us is consistent with Scripture.

For example, Paul said in Acts 20:24, "I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me- the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace."

That sounds a lot like squeezing the infinite into the finite. But not many years later, with the task still far from finished, Paul was able to write: "The time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race." (2 Tim. 4:6-7).

The task remained, but Paul was true to his God-given calling within it. He did not need to do it all; he only needed to complete that part of the task that God had given him. How readily we fall into thinking 'I have to do it all, and I have to do it all NOW.' But not everything we think to do is something God is calling us to do."

-Henderson, David. Crunched for Time? How to Restore Breathing Room in Your Life. Discipleship Journal.

Buffer Zone of Silence

2010-06-16T01:50:00.004-04:00

"When you approach Me in stillness and in trust, you are strengthened. You need a buffer zone of silence around you in order to focus on things that are unseen. Since I am invisible, you must not let your senses dominate your thinking. The curse of this age is over-stimulation of the senses, which blocks out awareness of the unseen world.

The tangible world still reflects My Glory, to those who have eyes that see and ears that hear. Spending time alone with Me is the best way to develop seeing eyes and hearing ears. The goal is to be aware of the unseen things even as you live out your life in the visible world."

2 Corinthians 4:18, "So we fix our eyes on not what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."

Isaiah 6:3, "And they were calling to one another: Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of His Glory."

Psalm 130:5, "I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His Word I put my hope."

Young, Sarah. (2004). Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence. "June 15." pg. 174.

His Yoke is Easy

2010-06-05T11:56:00.003-04:00

"For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:30

When I was a kid, I used to think this verse had to do with eggs, maybe an omelet? Since then I have learned the history behind this verse. If you have a second, I'd love to share:

In Jesus' time, the rabbi's would all have specific opinions, teachings, and a 'way' of doing things. They would speak the yoke of the Torah or the Law. In fact, you could kind of compare it to politicians. Each rabbi would have an opinion of what the scriptures meant, have a specific path for their followers. The rabbi's had so many interpretations of the Law, it became a burden to those trying to follow. Got it? Ok.

Each rabbi would have many apprentices in line to work with him in hopes of one day replacing him. The rabbi would allow only one at the end of a long trial period (something of ten years). The apprentices would memorize the entire Torah, starting at age ten. They would all study this rabbi's yoke, follow him from city to city, teaching to teaching. After this ten year trial period, the rabbi would then pick only one of these young boys to follow him to learn his yoke as a future replacement. can you imagine having to memorize the entire Torah? What if you didn't get picked as "The" apprentice? What would you do with your life? Would you have to learn another rabbi's yoke?

This was a complicated, rough, tedious, and intricate way of learning the rabbi's way.

Jesus came to give Life. His yoke (teaching) is easy- simply believe in Him and you will have this Life. There are no stipulations, rules, or a ten year trial period. His burden of interpretation is light. It's not something you have to carry around in your arms, or memorize, or only hope that he'll pick you. Simply believe. Love in return.

This passage is not about eggs! It's about the everlasting love of Jesus Christ which is easy to understand. There may be many interpretations of the Bible out there, but there is only One Jesus. One Way. One Love. It's easy, at the price of Jesus' crucification it's free, and in the dwelling of the Holy Spirit we no longer have to strive after a way to salvation. We can thrive in Him!

GOD IS ABLE

2010-06-01T13:44:00.006-04:00

GOD IS ABLE

Since God is the author and creator of my limits, then it is probably OK with Him that I have limits.

He probably does not expect me to be infinite and is a little surprised when I try.

It is OK with Him if I am not all things to all people all the time all by myself.

As a matter of fact, it is probably not OK with Him if I assume otherwise.

You see, it is OK for me to have limits - God doesn't.

It is OK to get a good night's sleep- God doesn't sleep.

It is OK for me to rest- God doesn't need to.

It is probably even OK to be depressed- because God isn't.

We do not know a lot about what heaven looks like, but this much we know:

God is not pacing the throne room anxious and depressed because of the condition of the world.

He knows, He is not surprised, and He is sovereign.

It is OK if we have limits. He is able.

-Richard A Swenson, The Overload Syndrome

Jonah and the Wale- quoted from The Lonely Polygamist

2010-05-30T22:50:00.004-04:00

"...the glistening liver upon which Jonah made his bed at night and the wash of spiky and tentacled sea creatures, dead and alive, foaming around the prophet's legs while he implored the Almighty for mercy. It took three days, apparently, for the great fish to tire of having his kidney used as a bean bag, and when Jonah was vomited up on the beach..."Oh Jonah! God's reluctant servant! Look at him there, washed up on that foreign shore! Half blind and tangled up in seaweed and whatnot. And that horrible smell? It's Jonah, people, covered with fish parts and digestive juices and so forth. It's pathetic old Jonah, pale and wrinkled like he's spent the weekend in a pickle barrel, blinking and looking around at the sand and the water and the tropical greenery and all that dazzling light after so much darkness. Imagine it, people! The ocean breeze in the nostrils, the sound of the surf and the wind in the palms. Imagine the wonder. The humble gratitude. Oh praise be my King on High, can you hear Jonah say it? Imagine the grace, the sweetness of that second chance."

The Lonely Polygamist by Brady Udall. pg. 412.

Yahweh

2010-05-27T13:51:00.000-04:00

Garbage In, Garbage Out

2010-05-26T21:34:00.000-04:00

Holy Moses!

2010-05-24T14:39:00.000-04:00

By Joe Kovacs
© 2010 WorldNetDaily.com

"And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided." (Exodus 14:21)

One of the most famous stories of the Bible is God's parting of the Red Sea to save the Israelites from the Egyptian army and the subsequent drowning of soldiers and horses in hot pursuit.

But is there evidence that such an event did in fact happen – and if so, precisely where did it take place?

The issue is surfacing some 3,500 years after the event is said to have taken place with reports of Egyptian chariot wheels found in the Red Sea, photographs to document it and new books by scientists that could lead to a whole remapping of the Exodus route and a fresh look at ancient biblical accounts.

Wheel of fortune

Is this a chariot wheel that chased Moses?

"I am 99.9 percent sure I picked up a chariot wheel," Peter Elmer tells WorldNetDaily after two diving trips to the Gulf of Aqaba branch of the sea. "It was covered in coral."

The 38-year-old forklift mechanic from Keynsham, England, traveled to the region with his brother, Mark, after being inspired by videos of explorers Ron Wyatt and Jonathan Gray, who have documented artifacts that in at least one case authorities have confirmed to be a chariot wheel dating to the time of the Exodus.

"I believe I actually sat in an ancient chariot cab," Elmer said, referring to his time exploring a submerged item in what he describes as an underwater scrapyard. "Without question, it is most definitely the remains of the Egyptian army."

Yes, the Bible is completely true, but you may never have heard the spectacular, ultimate destiny God has in store for you. It's far more glorious than just floating around on clouds in heaven! Find out what you've never been told, direct from your very own Bible!

But despite all of Elmer's excitement, others who have been to the same location are not so sure what is being viewed underwater are the remnants of the great chase and urge extreme caution regarding the unsubstantiated claims.

2010-05-23T16:38:00.002-04:00

Such intense anticipation overwhelms my waking hours. I cannot seem to grasp how God has led me to this decision. He came to give me life, peaceful life. I seem to daily get a better glimpse into this life meant for me, whether it be through a simple act of faith, advice from a friend, or simply choosing to resist temptation. I wake up feeling energized, excited, overwhelmed.

He yearns for me to experience this Life, this Path.

Green Space is important for Mental Health

2010-05-21T13:08:00.003-04:00

Just five minutes of exercise in a “green space” such as a park can boost mental health, researchers claim.

There is growing evidence that combining activities such as walking or cycling with nature boosts well-being.

In the latest analysis, UK researchers looked at evidence from 1,250 people in 10 studies and found fast improvements in mood and self-esteem.

The study in the Environmental Science and Technology journal suggested the strongest impact was on young people.

The research looked at many different outdoor activities including walking, gardening, cycling, fishing, boating, horse-riding and farming in locations such as a park, garden or nature trail.

The biggest effect was seen within just five minutes.

With longer periods of time exercising in a green environment, the positive effects were clearly apparent but were of a smaller magnitude, the study found.

Looking at men and women of different ages, the researchers found the health changes - physical and mental - were particularly strong in the young and the mentally-ill.

Green and blue

A bigger effect was seen with exercise in an area that also contained water - such as a lake or river.

Study leader Jules Pretty, a researcher at the University of Essex, said those who were generally inactive, or stressed, or with mental illness would probably benefit the most from “green exercise”.

We would like to see all doctors considering exercise as a treatment where appropriate Paul Farmer, Mind

“Employers, for example, could encourage staff in stressful workplaces to take a short walk at lunchtime in the nearest park to improve mental health.”

He also said exercise programmes outdoors could benefit youth offenders.

“A challenge for policy makers is that policy recommendations on physical activity are easily stated but rarely adopted widely.”

Paul Farmer, chief executive of mental health charity Mind, said the research is yet further evidence that even a short period of green exercise can provide a low cost and drug-free therapy to help improve mental wellbeing.

“It’s important that people experiencing depression can be given the option of a range of treatments, and we would like to see all doctors considering exercise as a treatment where appropriate.”

Mind runs a grant scheme for local environmental projects to help people with mental illness get involved in outdoor activities.

Reference: http://www.mindfulness.com/

For I Was Hungry...

2010-05-20T16:49:00.002-04:00

"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me." Matthew 25:35-36

Digging a ditch for the poor- so they can have water- is digging a ditch for Jesus. Giving clothes to the naked- so they can stay warm and grow in dignity- is clothing Jesus. Inviting strangers into your home- so they can sleep and be fed- is inviting Jesus into your home. Caring for the sick and visiting prisoners is caring for and visiting Jesus. The whole Gospel is concerned about salvation for heaven and also abundant life on e

Going Through the Motions- Matthew West

2010-05-20T14:01:00.002-04:00

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 ok
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

Take me all the way
Take me all the way
Take me all the way

2010-05-19T18:37:00.001-04:00

The reason we breathe is to sing of His glory.

True Love

2010-05-18T20:36:00.002-04:00

"I'll put you in front of me so you can see My love."

He is behind us, He is with us, He is ahead of us.

True love is sacrifice. The definition of love is Jesus Christ. Perfect Love.

"Tender Words to Tired Hearts" - UpWords - Apr. 9, 2010

2010-05-10T18:26:00.000-04:00

"Tender Words to Tired Hearts" - UpWords - Apr. 9, 2010

April 17th 2010

2010-04-17T16:41:00.002-04:00

From Jesus Calling by Sarah Young:

I am training you in steadiness. Too many things interrupt your awareness of Me. I know that you live in a world of sigh and sound, but you must not be a slave to those stimuli. Awareness of Me can continue in all circumstances, no matter what happens. This is the steadiness I desire in you.

Don't let unexpected events throw you off course. Rather, respond calmly and confidently, remembering that I am with you. As soon as something grabs your attention, talk with Me about it. Thus I share your joys and your problems; I help you cope with whatever is before you. this is how I live in you and worth through you. This is the way of Peace.

Psalm 112: 7, "He will have no fear of bad news;

his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD."

Isaiah 41:10, "So do not fear, for I am with you;

do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

How Can We Not Say "Yes"?

2010-04-17T16:17:00.005-04:00

Could it be that we try to follow in other's footsteps? Pressure? Expectations? What if being present all along; what if freedom and peace was the only a decision away? what if all you had to do was say "yes" to Him?

There is true freedom in Jesus. No one else can hold your hand (even when you choose to ignore it, or don't want it). Jesus will never give up on you.

What if you said "yes" to freedom?

There is a whole new layer on the "yes" side. Like an onion: sheer, thin, but interconnecting in independent on it's own. We know already what exists: what we can say "no" to (greed, pride, knowledge, lust...).

We only have a taste, such sweet sweet taste, of what we might say "yes" to...how can we not crave it? How can we not feel incomplete? How can we not be intoxicated with the Holy Spirit? How can we not deny His neverending love?

How can we not say "yes" to open doors to everything He has to offer? How can we turn down everlasting life?

How can we not be intoxicated, overwhelmed, submersed, blown away by Jesus' glory?

God's voice sounds like....

2010-02-18T16:40:00.006-05:00

What does God's voice sound like? Is it a booming from the heaven's striking any and all who are in range? Does it sound like an echoing James Earl Jones? For each person, God's voice is different and unique. Beauty in the music; a baby smiling; standing firm against opposition; peace and tranquility. You will hear and see God's movement in a totally different way than the person sitting next to you will. Because of our unique backgrounds, passions, and gifts, His voice is our full portion. It's all we need!

"And he said, The God of our fathers has chosen you, that you should know his will, and see that Just One, and should hear the voice of his mouth."
- Acts 22:14

Some may say, we don't hear His voice- because we have the Bible. Don't forget His sheep hear their Master's voice! (John 10:16).

The following is an expert of an article about different ways we hear God's voice:

A still small voice. Elijah was on the run in 1 Kings 19 from evil Queen Jezebel who ordered his death, after a mighty miracle in which he challenged the prophets of Baal to call upon their God while Elijah called upon his. As a result, God consumed Elijah's altar with fire, and Jezebel's unanswered prophets were all put to death. Despite God's marvelous works, His mightiest prophet was frightened and had retreated into a cave.
1 Kings 19:11-13 says, "And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; [but] the LORD [was] not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; [but] the LORD [was] not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; [but] the LORD [was] not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice. And it was [so], when Elijah heard [it], that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave. And, behold, [there came] a voice unto him, and said, What doest thou here, Elijah?"

A voice in your ear. Isaiah 30:21 says, "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This [is] the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.

Conviction by the Holy Spirit. John 16:8 says that when the Holy Spirit comes, He will convict the world of sin, righteousness and judgement. In the same fashion, let's say you were about to say something really nasty to someone. You suddenly either feel a "pulling back" by the Holy Spirit to not say that nasty thing, or you sense the Lord tap you on the skull and say, "Son, that's not nice. Don't say that." The word "to convict" is also translated as "to reprove." We must be humble and accept God's reproof of our actions!

Being led by the Spirit. Romas 8:14 says, "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God." When you are in a constant state of loving intimacy with Jesus, and you not only allow Him to lead your life, but you are accutely sensitive to the Holy Spirit as how He desires to lead you, that places you in right relationship with the Lord, such that you are God's little son or daughter! The Holy Spirit may either allow you to sense His urging you in a particular direction, or may even speak to you audibly.

When reading the word, a scripture jumps out at you. In your Quiet Times before the Lord, have you ever found that - as you're reading from your Bible - a particular verse suddenly jumps out at you? There's an excitement, as you say, "Yes! That verse fits exactly my situation! That's my verse!" The Holy Spirit has a way of illuminating upon the Word and opening our eyes to understand its meaning much deeper than what we would understand as a result of an dry, academic theological head-knowledge study that has no application nor pertinence in your life or anyone else's nor has the power to tell a flea to go away? The more you take those scriptures the Lord reveals to you and hide it in your heart, the more God finds you trustworthy to give you more revelation!

What ways does God get your attention? It's that still small voice that is a tug on the heart! I see it in beautiful colors, His unfailing love and grace, and in the growth of those around me. His hand is always sweeping through the nations- just watch for the trees to move and you'll catch a glimpse into His kingdom!

Can you hear Him? Can you? Are you listening?

Source: Unknown. (Unknown). Hearing God's voice. Retrieved February 18, 2010 from http://www.tamil-bible.com/god_vce.html.

For All Those 20 Somethings!!

2010-02-07T21:19:00.007-05:00

I realized a few years ago that this term called "Quarter-Life Crisis" is entirely real. I was flipping through some research and found the below piece (author unknown). It pretty much declares a lot of those underlying feelings and issues that a lot of twenty-somethings' begin to identify with. I personally was hit with this term and it's baggage when I turned twenty one. So many students are graduating early, wising up younger, and searching for a solid faith. This term will continue to develop and become as big as the "Mid-Life Crisis" (without the red sports car craving). I'd love to hear your feedback!

The Quarter-Life Crisis
by unknown

"It is when you stop going along with the crowd and start realizing that there are a lot of things about yourself that you didn't know and may or may not like. You start feeling insecure and wonder where you will be in a year or two, but then get scared because you barely know where you are now.

You start realizing that people are selfish and that, maybe, those friends that you thought you were so close to aren't exactly the greatest people you have ever met and the people you have lost touch with are some of the most important ones. What you do not realize is that they are realizing that too and are not really cold or catty or mean or insincere, but that they are as confused as you.

You look at your job. It is not even close to what you thought you would be doing or maybe you are looking for one and realizing that you are going to have to start at the bottom and are scared.

You miss the comforts of college, of groups, of socializing with the same people on a constant basis. But then you realize that maybe they weren't so great after all.

You are beginning to understand yourself and what you want and do not want. Your opinions have gotten stronger. You see what others are doing and find yourself judging a bit more than usual because suddenly you realize that you have certain boundaries in your life and add things to your list of what is acceptable and what is not. You are insecure and then secure. You laugh and cry with the greatest force of your life. You feel alone and scared and confused. Suddenly change is the enemy and you try and cling on to the past with dear life but soon realize that the past is drifting further and further away and there is nothing to do but stay where you are or move forward.

You get your heart broken and wonder how someone you loved could do such damage to you or you lay in bed and wonder why you can't meet anyone decent enough to get to know better. You love someone but maybe love someone else too and cannot figure out why you are doing this because you are not a bad person.

One night stands and random hook ups start to look cheap and getting wasted and acting like an idiot starts to look pathetic. You go through the same emotions and questions over and over and talk with your friends about the same topics because you cannot seem to make a decision.

You worry about loans and money and the future and making a life for yourself and while wining the race would be great, right now you'd just like to be a contender!

What you may not realize is that everyone reading this relates to it. We are in our best of times and our worst of times, trying as hard as we can to figure this whole thing out."

Source

(Unknown). Quarter-Life Crisis. Retrieved Online February 7, 2010 from http://www.cds.caltech.edu/~shane/text/quarterlifecrisis.html

For more reading on this topic, check out this article: http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://bernardoh.files.wordpress.com/2007/05/st-quarter-life-crisis.jpg&imgrefurl=http://bernardoh.wordpress.com/2007/05/02/a-singaporean-take-on-quarter-life-crisis/&usg=__arHlNVAPcT8MAtd0A19WfNUPCOk=&h=642&w=1200&sz=274&hl=en&start=10&sig2=W0eJbYtOThqouZhRo8c_Hw&um=1&itbs=1&tbnid=eQ5bDfZrc2OmCM:&tbnh=80&tbnw=150&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dquarter%2Blife%2Bcrisis%26hl%3Den%26rlz%3D1C1GGLS_enUS355US355%26sa%3DN%26um%3D1&ei=0nZvS_HxJcOXtgfG-9SMBg

2010-02-02T17:05:00.000-05:00

Psalm 34:18-19

The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.

Strong Foundation

2010-02-01T16:53:00.003-05:00

"The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock." Matthew 7:25

STAND OUT!!!

2010-01-31T14:40:00.002-05:00

DID YOU KNOW:

The Zebra's Symbolism is Individuality. The zebra's distinctive stripes serves as a protective camouflage against predators, who are often unable to pick an individual out from the herd. For herd members, the stripe patterns, unique to each zebra, have the opposite effect of helping to identify individual zebras. This power animal thus helps us to both maintain our individuality in group settings and helps us to be supportive members of our communities. A third spiritual meaning for the stripes has to do with the integration of opposites, thus enabling us to see a deeper truth.

7 Steps to Daily Change

2010-01-30T15:01:00.004-05:00

Step #1: Daily in God’s Word

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” –Romans 12:2

Our Daily Bread, www.RBC.org
Put Scripture on 3x5 Cards
One Year Bible, www.OneYearBible.com

“The Bible was never meant to fill us with head knowledge but to change our lives.” –D.L. Moody

Step #2: Daily Give Thanks and Praise

“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” -1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

#1 most popular question: “What is God’s will for my life?” That’s up for YOUR discovery!
Write 3 things you are grateful for today

Step #3: Daily Pray Without Ceasing

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” –Philippians 4:6

What do your requests to God reveal about your priorities, goals, desire, and heart?
Do you have a prayer partner?
Continually pray Scripture.

Step #4: Daily Confess My Sins and Forgive Others

“Have mercy on me, O God, because of Your unfailing love. Because of Your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins.” –Psalm 51:1

“Forgiveness is giving up my right to hurt you back.” –Dr. Archibald Hart

Step #5: Daily Surrender My All

“So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life- your sleeping, eating, going to work and walking around in life- and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for Him.”–Romans 12:1

Book Resource: Surrender the Heart God Controls, by Nancy Leigh DeMoss
What is God asking you to surrender today?

Step #6: Daily Listen For God’s Voice

“Be still and know that I am God.” –Psalm 46:10

“People in a hurry never have time for recovery. Their minds have little time to meditate and pray so that problems can be put in perspective. In short, people in our age are showing signs of physiological disintegration because we are living at a pace that is too fast for our bodies.” –Dr. Archibald Hart

Take 5 Minutes to be still with God and Journal your reflections.
What is God saying to you today?

Step #7: Daily Believe God and SOAR

“Great and mighty things He has for me; things my eyes cannot see.” –Jeremiah 33:3

Write out your top 3 Spiritual Gifts

“Everybody thinks of changing humanity and nobody thinks of changing himself.”

–Leo Tolstoy

Keep a Spiritual Journal.
You can become your greatest source of encouragement!
Key to remember: Who God is, What He has done, and What He is able to do!
Book Resource- The Life You’ve Always Wanted, by John Ortberg

We are made for divine moments!!

“I pray that from His glorious, unlimited resources He will empower you with inner strength through His Spirit. Then Christ will make His home in your hearts as you trust in Him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep His love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.” –Ephesians 3:16-18

*Source: Professional Life Purpose Coaching Worksheets. AACC.

2010-01-23T23:06:00.002-05:00

"I long to accomplish a great and noble task, but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble." -Helen Keller

2010-01-13T15:59:00.001-05:00

"God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks to us in our conscience, but shouts in our pains; it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world." -C.S. Lewis

Body Image Blues, Girls?

2010-01-04T18:41:00.005-05:00

Television: Constant flooding of size 0 models and actresses.

Movies: Unrealistic expectations of clothing, relationships, and what 'normal' looks like. Only instead of a 17 inch flat screen TV, images are on the silver screen in all their glory.

Magazines: Page after page of styles, what's fashionable, "How to dress your Curves," and sex, sex, sex.

Family & Friends: probably the biggest competition around. We compare ourselves to our friends, what our mate might expect in our body, or how you "used" to look.

Don't like your nose? Not a Barbie Doll> When you look in the mirror, do you like what you see? Don't like your jean size? Well I can guarantee that 100% of females, and some males are fairly self-conscious about their body image. So what exactly is negative body image? WomensHealth defines,"A woman has a distorted perception of her shape and size, compares her body to others, and feels shame and anxiety about her body. Being unhappy with your body can affect how you think and feel about yourself as a person. A poor body image can lead to emotional distress, low self-esteem, unhealthy dieting habits, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. Developing a positive body image and a healthy mental attitude is crucial to a woman's happiness and wellness."

So how do you get back to a positive body image? How can this change your lifestyle and internal dialog? The following 10 Steps to Positive Body Image by Wesleyan University are:

1. Appreciate all that your body can do. Every day your body carries you closer to your

dreams. Celebrate all of the amazing things your body does for you --running, dancing,

breathing, laughing, dreaming, etc.

2. Keep a top-10 list of things you like about yourself -- things that aren’t related to how much

you weigh or what you look like. Read your list often. Add to it as you become aware of

more things to like about you.

3. Remind yourself that “true beauty” is not simply skin-deep. When you feel good about

yourself and who you are, you carry yourself with a sense of confidence, self-acceptance,

and openness that makes you beautiful regardless of whether you physically look like a

supermodel. Beauty is a state of mind, not a state of your body.

4. Look at yourself as a whole person. When you see yourself in a mirror or in your mind,

choose not to focus on specific body parts. See yourself as you want others to see you -- as a

whole person.

5. Surround yourself with positive people. It is easier to feel good about yourself and your

body when you are around others who are supportive and who recognize the importance of

liking yourself just as you naturally are.

6. Shut down those voices in your head that tell you your body is not “right” or that you are a

“bad” person. You can overpower those negative thoughts with positive ones. The next

time you start to tear yourself down, build yourself back up with a few quick affirmations

that work for you.

7. Wear clothes that are comfortable and that make you feel good about your body. Work

with your body, not against it.

8. Become a critical viewer of social and media messages. Pay attention to images, slogans, or

attitudes that make you feel bad about yourself or your body. Protest these messages:

write a letter to the advertiser or talk back to the image or message.

9. Do something nice for yourself -- something that lets your body know you appreciate it.

Take a bubble bath, make time for a nap, find a peaceful place outside to relax.

10. Use the time and energy that you might have spent worrying about food, calories, and your

weight to do something to help others. Sometimes reaching out to other people can help

you feel better about yourself and can make a positive change in our world.

References:

Womens Health. (2009). Body Image: Loving Your Body Inside and Out. Retrieved online January 4, 2009 from http://www.womenshealth.gov/bodyImage/

Wesleyan University. (2002). Ten Steps Positive Body Image. Retrieved online January 4, 2009 from http://www.wesleyan.edu/weswell/docs/ed_bodyimage/10%20Steps%20to%20Positive%20Body%20Image.pdf

The Twilight Zone - Kick the Can Video by oɔɹɐɯ - MySpace Video

2009-12-31T20:13:00.000-05:00

The Twilight Zone - Kick the Can Video by oɔɹɐɯ - MySpace Video

Great advice to help you stay young, feel more energy, and play more often.

Those Scary New Year's Resolutions!

2009-12-28T15:57:00.007-05:00

We've all heard of the yearly tradition of making a New Year's Resolution. There are so many things we should be doing, places we should be going, and habits we need to quit. Whether it's the common resolve of losing weight, quitting smoking, helping or volunteering for the needy, or going back to school, we all have great ideas about where we should be.

So, where should you be? What should you be doing? Your greatest longing or guilt driven goal tells you a lot about yourself. However, recent studies have shown that the act of making a New Year's Resolution can actually be counterproductive to your health. Even though you are vowing to change one or more things about yourself over the next year, the act of holding an unrealistic or realistic expectation could cause a backlash.

BBC (2009) has reported, "...resolutions which focus on issues such as the need to lose weight or job worries create a negative self-image. And if the plans fail to materialize, that could trigger feelings of failure and inadequacy, the charity said. Mind chief executive Paul Farmer said focusing on problems or insecurities can lead to feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem and even mild depression. We chastise ourselves for our perceived shortcomings and set unrealistic goals to change our behavior, so it's not surprising that when we fail to keep resolutions, we end up feeling worse than when we started."

What is the difference between a RESOLUTION and a GOAL?

1. A resolution focuses on a set standard over your life (as seen taking part on New Year's Day). Resolutions are a promise to one's self for self-improvement. Generally, resolutions are only one dimensional consisting of a simple end result resolution. An accountability partner can be essential in the resolution process, however motivation can decrease for both involved unless you set a goal. Which leads us to....

2. A goal is more centered on realistic steps towards a positive direction (whether it be finding a job, losing weight, becoming more compassionate). Goals focus more on baby steps, and analyzing possible obstacles. Don't forget to grab an accountability partner! If you slip up on your journey, your accountability partner can help whip you back into shape and provide encouragement.

BBC suggests "...instead of making a New Year's resolution, think positively about the year to come and what you can achieve." Instead of easily broken resolutions in 2010, BBC suggests:

Being active - exercise releases endorphins and even a gentle stroll is beneficial for mental well-being.
Going green - evidence has shown that connecting with nature can boost moods.
Learn something new - it will keep minds stimulated and give confidence.
Give back to the community - it can be just as rewarding for you as those you choose to help."

Ultimately, I would suggest that making a resolution or a goal should only happen when you are good and ready to start the process instead of when everyone else tells you to. If you are involved in a dangerous habit or an unhealthy situation, perhaps the advice of others will help motivate and encourage you to change your ways. Let the New Year's be a tradition of renewal, processing, and hope for the future. You are never stuck!

Source:

British Broadcasting Company. (2009). Resolutions Are Bad For Your Health. Retrieved online December 28, 2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7806776.stm.

2009-11-30T01:26:00.002-05:00

"Being happy doesn't mean that everything is perfect. It means you've decided to look beyond the imperfections." -Unknown

Movie Montage

2009-11-16T09:46:00.006-05:00

We've all seen movies depicting a 'movie montage.' The films typically express the underdog training for a fight or race, drinking healthy drinks, working out, hitting a boxing pad, and of course excessive sweating. The montage is never complete without the music: cliche 80's hits like Eye of the Tiger, a husky male voice (such as Kenny Loggins), and a female background singer who's job is solely based on repeating the anthem. The whole concept of a movie montage is to convey that a time has passed, work has been done, and the hero is now ready for the 'big fight.' He's prepared, fit, appreciative of his trainer, and of course- still sweaty.

Some of the epic movie montages include:
8. 'Teen Wolf'- Win in the End
7. 'Naked Gun'- I'm Into Something Good
6. 'Dirty Dancing'- Hungry Eyes
5. 'Revenge of the Nerds'- One Foot in front of the Other
4. 'The Karate Kid'- You're The Best
3. 'Ghostbusters'
2. 'Scarface'- Push it to the Limit
1. 'Rocky IV'- The Training Montage

And of course the best movie montage, in my opinion, is Team America-World Police "Montage"; a self-conscious take on movie montage's concentrating on cliche build-up. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIi0vFyqWAc

So, you say, "Why movie montage's?" In person, I'd respond: "Why NOT movie montages?!" But since the blog needs a point consider the following:

1. If someone was to make a movie montage of the 'training' time in your life, what would the theme song be?
2. In your montage are you training for the big fight, just getting in shape, or feel like you're on your own (no trainer)?
3. Who would your trainer be (a friend, relative, co-worker, pet, God, a book, a concept)?
4. What did you train for specifically (career path, death of a friend/family member, school, sprititual battle)?

As cliche as movie montage's are, the whole concept is to convey that time has passed considerably in such a short section of film. If you're in the middle of yours, don't give up. There is always a hindsight perspective. If you've only just begun, get a great trainer and some kick butt music and truck on through.

Finding Your Strengths!

2009-11-05T12:47:00.006-05:00

In order to key in on how YOU can function best as a person, I challenge you to identify your strengths! You probably have a pretty good idea at some of the things that inspire you, come easy to you, and challenge you. Putting those thoughts into specific characteristics can help you see a bigger picture as to how your specific talents can fit into other areas of life.

First, think about what you're good at, what inspires you, what comes easy to you, and several characteristics that others admire about you. List your Top 4 (for example: critical thinking, hope for the future, enthusiasm, including others, task focused/OR relationship focused etc.).

Second, go to http://www.viasurvey.org/ and briefly register (FREE) to take the VIA-SURVEY FOR CHARACTER STRENGTHS. I highly recommend this questionnaire and use it in my own personal coaching sessions. It takes about 35 minutes to take the 240 question survey. When completed, it measures you on 24 different strength levels. Note your top 4 and bottom 4.

Third, take your TOP 4 STRENGTHS and think about new ways to use them. For example: if your strength is creativity, set aside specific hours to simply increase your creativity levels (by writing, reading, making). If your strength is appreciation of beauty/nature, find better ways to incorporate this into your life (take a scenic route home, take a walk after dinner, set aside time for some fresh air). Ultimately, strive to push the envelope with your strengths in order to start growing them.

Finally, when you are doing something you love, enjoy, and are good at- your body and mind will respond! You're "pleasure center" (septum pellicidium & hypothalamus) in the brain will excrete domaine into the body creating a satisfied feeling. Dopamine directly effects mood, sleep, cognition, voluntary movement, motivation, a sense of reward, attention and learning. Ultimately, the more you grow and pay attention to YOUR STRENGTHS, your body responds positively.

Additionally, I recommend the Keirsey Personality Test (www.keirsey.com). Shorter versions of the test can be found by searching Myers Briggs (aka Keirsey).

Find what you're good at and GROW it!

Perfecting Ourselves To Death

2009-10-02T16:33:00.004-04:00

Perfectionism is an avoided and yet prided word with connotations of straightening pencils and perfect clothes. Some perfectionists can be seen as simply hardworking and motivated; others let it affect their attitudes, health, and ultimately their relationships.

So, what type of perfectionist are you? I'm not talking about taking a self-quiz and getting a silly result that is so general and broad as a fortune cookie. Perfectionism can be split into several categories. Most of us with this trait can be dominant in one category while mixed slightly into others.

I recently attended a conference and heard the author, Richard Winter, speak about his book Perfecting Yourself to Death: The Pursuit of Excellence and the Perils of Perfectionism. Not only was his information a new and innovative in the area of the healthy vs. unhealthy perfectionist, but his English accent was swimmingly surprising. So, below I'll let you in on a few of his secrets (laid out in his book, but also in the notes of his lecture):

Types of Perfectionism:

Appearance

Performance/Academic

Moral

All round (all encompassing)

Perfectionists think in ALL or NOTHING terms!

Unhealthy Perfectionists:

Have standards that are high beyond reach or reason

Strain compulsively and unremittingly toward impossible goals

Feel their best efforts are never good enough

Unable to feel satisfaction or joy in a job well done

Measure their own worth entirely in terms of productiv ity and accomplishment

Preoccupied with performance and/or appearance

Normal/Healthy Perfectionists (Person of Excellence):

Pursue excellence

Derive a very real sense of pleasure from the labors of a painstaking effort to meet high standards

Feel free to be less precise as the situations permits

Rejoice in their skills

Appreciate a job well done

The 3 Dimensions of Perfectionists- Which One Are You?

Self-Oriented: demand yourself to be better (high standards for yourself only); under stress you break down to unhealthy perfectionism and tend toward neutrotism. This type of dimension tends to be only related to your person only, no one else (your little bubble and your standards only).

Socially Prescribed: perceived expectations of others very high; self-worth is contingent on others approval. Social situations depend on your thoughts of "Am I saying the right thing?" "Do I live up to their standards?"

Others-Oriented: "Why can't everyone else do things the way I do things?" Very morally conscious; tends to set high standards for everyone else. Can be bossy, leadership qualities are high but when under stress can lead to unhealthy ranges.

Thought Patterns of Perfectionists:

All or nothing

Need for control

Tyranny of "outs and "shoulds"

Trying to live outside reality

Perception of consistency failing to meet high standards set by self or others

Shame, social comparison, inferiority

Fear of making mistakes

Fear of failure and rejection

Discrepancy between perceieved and ideal self

Some Perils of Perfectionism:

Anxiety & worry

Indecisiveness and procrastination

Decreased productivity and performance

Impaired health (headaches, psychosomatic issues)

Eating disorders

Depression and suicidal ideas

Relationship problems (Other-Oriented: critical and leaves broken hearts; Self-Oriented: afraid of opening up because of rejection)

Obsessive comulsive Personality and OCD- desired sense of control.

OCD Vs. Perfectionism

Perfectionism is one side of the spectrum dealing with control and anxiety- usually within a mindset that can be triggered and activated. Easy to change within most settings through therapy and therapuetic settings (talk therapy with friends or even relaxation).

OCD is the other more extreme side of the spectrum dealing with higher control and anxiety- very similiar yet more ingrained in the brain dealing with personality and psychological issues. Hard to change without intense therapy, medication and cognitive behavioral help.

The Roots of Perfectionism

Genes (can be found in family generations)

Culture (Military, Asian cultures, Medical field, Media)

Family (parental grace vs. shame, expectations, Freud/anal fixations)

School

Church

Fear of failure, rejection or loss of control

Pride

Shame

Practical Strategies for Health: Learning to Live with Imperfection

Evaluate Pros/cons

recognize all or nothing patterns (keep a journal of thoughts/feelings)

Move from idealism to reality

Resist the Devil (arm yourself with truth)

Accept day by day, little by littlework on small goals

Winter, Richard. (2009). Perfecting Ourselves To Death: The Pursuit of Excellence and The Perils of Perfectionism. As heard at the AACC World Conference 9/19/2009.

If You DON'T Snooze, You LOSE!!!

2009-09-22T13:30:00.005-04:00

At the World Conference of Christian Counselors, I went to a lecture with the above appropriated title. Having insomnia since early infancy, I was a little sceptical about the information to be presented. I have tried just about every option in the insomniacs personal stash: a new high tech mattress, velvet blankets, pillows, noise machines, fans, awesome pjs, warm milk, sleep drugs in every category known to man, tea, baths, meditation, prayer..you name it- it's right here. In addition to trying everything, I have also paid for psychiatrists (with much success I might add), talk therapy, muscle testing, holistic medicine... the works. You get the idea.

So here it was, 8:45am. I was loaded with coffee walking into a lecture on sleep. Dr. Lyles was blessed with a humerous outlook that helped all of us stay focused on not falling asleep! Here are some of the most profound facts:

If you sleep under 4 hours a night here is what happens to your body:

Decrease in: mood, cognition, vigilence/reflexes, pain tolerence, immune function, glucose metabolism, pulmonary functions, growth/thyroid/prolactin/leptin hormones, seizure threshold

Increase in: blood pressure, inflammatory ctokines, eveing cortisol, caloric intake after one night of deprivation.

Every night you sleep under 4 hours a night.....IT TAKES 3 DAYS TO RECOVER!!!!!!

Psychiatric Disorders & Sleep

Anxiety: Initial( can't fall asleep)/middle (wake up in the middle of the night) insomnia (50% GAD patients). Bedtime Worry/Tension

Mania: Decreased need for sleep and decreasded total sleep time. Insomnia is predictive of relapse into mania.

PTSD: Nightmares, Increase REM density, inability to maintain sleep.

Panic Disorder: nocturnal panic attacks.

Depression & Sleep

20% of insomniacs have depression

Sleep disturbance and fatigue are predictive of future depression

Increased rates of relapse in remitted depressed patients with continuing sleep disturbance

Initual (can't fall sleep), middle (wake up in the middle of the night) or terminal insomina

Atypical depression goes into hypersmonia

Single night sleep deprivation may temporarily decrease depression (a nap reverses it).

Fibromyalgia

Diffuse musculoskeletal pain, chronic fatigue, non-restorative sleep and tender points in the muscles

Unique presensce of Alpha waves during NREM sleep, esp. stages 3 & 4

Highly associated with depression

Treatment of sleep disorder is a core priority

Sleep Hygiene to Enhance Nighttime Sleep

Avoid naps during the day

Regular bedtime and rise times

Avoid non-sleeping time in bed

Avoid alcohol, nicotine, or caffiene

Minimize exercise near bedtime

Maximize bed comfort and room temperature

Elimiate light and noise

Get out of bed if unable to initiate sleep and try again later

Avoid mental work near bedtime

Sleep: If You Don't Snooze: You Lose- Michael Lyles, M.D. Notes, Powerpoint. As seen from AACC World Conference, 2009.

Flat Brained Alligators

2009-09-04T22:02:00.004-04:00

Flat Brain Syndrome
Peterson hit in me in the head when I read his book about listening better. In Chapter 4 he mentioned 'flat brain syndrome.’ This is where your system goes nuts with trying to interpret mixed emotions during times of stress. He states that our stomachs overload on past pain and send ‘stomach pangs’ as messages to our hearts. What really hit me was his section on our hearts turning into bricks. “ Any ability we had to use heart talk, to share and be open with each other morphs into put-downs, absolute statements, and resistance” (Petersen, 2007, p. 25). I usually have a lot on my mind and am not the type of person to openly share too much. When something is really bothering me, I tend to clam up and become a little cold towards others. I’ve done and said some irritating things when my heart turns into a brick, but it is usually because of the internal dialogue that is happening. What should I do about this? I should open up to the right people in order to not ‘stuff emotions’ which results in a ‘brick heart.’ Internal emotions are better out than a spontaneous blow out. Recognize your signs of stuffing.

Alligators
Peterson talked about how the ‘alligators’ nip at our heals when we’re in a stressful situation. In normal times, we could converse in a proper way with sharing our feelings. However when we put off telling the other person how we feel or what to do, stress and false emotion gather. We start to build a ‘grudge’ and talk to ourselves internally about how the other person may not care, listen, or is lazy. The longer we wait to speak out our feelings, the bigger the alligator gets. When deadlines and activities approach, eventually we have to speak up. However, we do it with an alligator on our heals causing absolutes and negatives to blurt out. “A good listener removes alligators and secures a setting where talkers can focus on clearing their swamps” (Petersen, 2007, p. 95). How many of you are ‘emotional bottlers’? This is one of my worst issues. I have to shoot the alligators (metaphorically) and start to converse within a safe situation in order to successfully relate my message as well as listen to others.

Petersen, J., (2007). Why Don't We Listen Better? Oregon: Petersen Publications.

17 Essential Qualities of A Team Player by John Maxwell: A Review

2009-08-08T19:58:00.006-04:00

Every leader looks for that one book that hits a home run when referring to leadership qualities. John Maxwell’s book, The 17 Essential Qualities of a Team Player: Becoming the Kind Of Person Every Team Wants (2002), offers the reader a tight and colorful summation of his seventeen essential leadership qualities. Most leaders assume that they should be hard working, skilled, and well-versed in the subject matter; Maxwell takes these assumptions a step further and lists seventeen must-have characteristics that all leaders should encompass in order to do well in any sort of team.

Maxwell’s text is chocked full of great stories and personally gathered illustrations to help the reader better grasp each quality mentioned. Beginning with a quote, Maxwell then moves on to a story to help tie in the theme of the quality. In addition to the story, Maxwell also uses evaluations and reflections to help the reader assess the quality mentioned. Basically, Maxwell uses day-to-day stories and quotes to help the reader implement these qualities to help integrate them into daily life. I find this text simple, basic, and easy to understand and apply. The principles and qualities mentioned are essential and explained in a straightforward manner.
John Maxwell’s text involves a layout of seventeen essential qualities which all leaders should encompass. The first quality, adaptability, focuses on alerting the leader to change for the sake of the team. The second quality, becoming collaborative, allows the leader to realize that working together precedes winning together. The third quality, being committed, is one of the most important; in order to be successful, the leader must give a full-effort. The fourth quality, communication, expresses that the team is many voices with a single heart. The fifth quality, competency, I find to be one of the most intriguing. In order to be a ‘doing’ team, the leader must be competent at the tasks first. The sixth quality, being dependable, explains that the leader must be available to help the team when in need. Additionally, the seventh quality is being disciplined which helps the team to win. The eighth quality is enlarging the team’s values. Being enthusiastic is the ninth quality which comes from the heart of the leader and flows through to the team. Being intentional is the tenth quality which helps make every action count. Additionally, the team should be mission conscious, which is the eleventh quality; this quality helps the team have a clear purpose of future goals. The twelfth quality is being prepared; this quality can ultimately determine the outcome of success. Being relational helps connect the warmth of the team; this is the thirteenth quality. The fourteenth quality is self-improving which ultimately starts at the heart of the leader and flows through to the team. The fifteenth quality is being selfless; in order to lead a team, the leader must be conscious of other’s needs. Additionally, the sixteenth quality is being solution oriented; since conflicts are inevitable in teams, finding solutions should be a priority. Finally, the seventeenth quality listed by Maxwell is being tenacious; never give up in tough situations.

Concrete Response
After reviewing Maxwell’s text, I have recalled a past instance that applies to the concepts. When I was fifteen years old, I was on a local mission team for children and teenagers that would week bi-monthly for an entire weekend. Before bed, the staff would provide group devotionals with a theme for the weekend. Most of the time, the themes would focus on some sort of leadership quality. This particular instance focused on being relational and getting along with others. The staff spoke for a while, sang a few songs, and the session ended. We would split off from the group to individually do our devotionals and then retire to bed. Two girls in particular, always put on their best behavior, “Christian hat,” and every teenage girl envied them for the discipline in the Bible studies. Everyone was doing great, until the fight started.
Teenage girls may not always do fist fights, but they can fight with words pretty well. After all that time spent in the devotional in the group and individually focused on being caring, relational, being warm with each other and as a leader; these girls still had it in for each other. These girls were throwing toothbrushes, pillows, and whatever they could get their hands on. Not only were they throwing objects, they were throwing insults like tomorrow’s paper. After the staff separated the girls and the affected individuals, a debriefing occurred as well as proper discipline. In summary, the entire group learned that teammates can be deceiving and being relational sometimes takes a few years of wisdom and maturity to grow a decent teammate.

Reflection
Upon reflection of John Maxwell’s text, I have come up with several questions regarding his work. However, I have not come up with many. I was actually quite impressed with his organized text, layout of design, and line of fire of content. However, in order to outsmart the author and think one step ahead, I must think hard to find a few flaws. First, in Maxwell’s text he stated he offers free tests and personal team assessments online at (http://www.qualitiesofateamplayer.com). However, this link is unavailable due to how long ago this text was published (about eight years ago). I was however redirected to http://www.maximumimpact.com/OnlineTools/assessment.aspx for more information regarding self assessments; however they were not regarding this specific text. I think it is sort of strange that the website mentioned in his book is no longer up and running; Maxwell must have no been thinking ahead or have been committed to an online resource. So much for abstract thinkers!
Secondly, thinking reflectively, I was really glad that Maxwell did not go into an in-depth description of each quality. This would have made the text a monotonous dictionary of terms. Instead he made the text more of a self-application and assessment that helped the reader easily apply it to daily life. I do wish, however, that Maxwell expounded on more questions: better team assessment tools, how to use this quality at home, is this quality something you struggle with etc. I think the text did offer a great Reflecting on It section that helped the reader ask specific questions; however, Maxwell did not expound on specific answers.

Action
Upon reading Maxwell’s text, I feel I have been enlightened with many relevant characteristics that all leaders should encompass. Each quality mentioned is a quality that should be grown and matured over time. I feel that I have a responsibility as a Christian to follow through with paying attention to these qualities mentioned and making sure I use these qualities for the betterment of my relationship with God and others. My mother is a leader in the local Christian counseling field and asked me specifically about being disciplined. We both have a hard time being too disciplined and not spending enough time resting. After reviewing Maxwell’s seventh quality on discipline, we both discussed how taking several days of rest per every few weeks can do wonders on our work performance. “Discipline is doing what you really don’t want to do so that you can do what you really want to do” (Maxwell, 2002, p. 57). She and I worked out a plan of action so that we can specially have some time to recharge so that our ‘type A’ personalities will not take over and drain our mental batteries.
Personally, the information gained from reading this text has really helped me see a better well-rounded picture of what is needed in any sort of leadership position. Not only am I going to use this information with my future career and job hunt, but I really find this information pertinent in my relationship with Christ. I really found some areas that I need to work on (becoming more relational and committed). Overall, great book!

References
Maxwell, J. (2002). The 17 Essential Qualities of a Team Player: Becoming the Kind of Person Every Team Wants. Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers.

**This review is NOT permitted to be copied, printed, or reproduced.

Life Coaching: Top 5 Questions

2009-07-29T17:55:00.004-04:00

1. What is life coaching?
*A life coach is someone you hire to help assist you with your personal development, especially in the area of setting and achieving specific goals. Your life coach may share advice, offer guidance, help you make plans, and hold you accountable for taking action. Just like you would hire a trainer for implementing fitness goals, you would hire a life coach to inspire and support you to implement personal life goals. Many people also need motivation with productivity and organization during their coaching process, which is what the coach is for! Every life coaching situation is unique, therefore each individual sets specific milestones and goals to implement during and after the coaching process.

*Amid all your responsibilities, activities and projects, it's sometimes hard to see the big picture and easy to become overwhelmed or feel like you're lacking direction. That's where a life coach can come in. If you are frustrated with an aspect of your life, not sure how to stop making the same choices you keep making or just want to have more happiness, peace of mind and passion -- life coaching can do that for you. Life coaches can specialize in areas like relationships, careers or personal growth. They promise to motivate, offer support when clients need a boost in confidence and help them decide which direction to take (Pawlowski, 2007).

2. How does life coaching differ from counseling or therapy?
*Coaching focuses on goal setting with future emphasis. Coaching meets the client where they are with support during their time of struggle with poignant questions and motivational encouragement. Coaching is about positive acute change.

*Therapy focuses on issues of pathology, healing and unresolved psychological issues of the past. Coaching on the other hand, begins with the present and assists clients in setting very clear, and specific goals that they want to achieve in the future. While the past may be discussed on occasion, it is addressed only in the context of discovering what is blocking the client from moving forward. The focus is always on movement and taking action, not on insight or understanding (Austin & Brain, 2008).

3. How does life coaching work?
*What happens between you and your life coach? Your life coach will be your EQUAL PARTNER. If you do not feel that your life coach is your equal partner, then the life coaching process will almost assuredly not succeed. Your life coach will focus totally on you. You will become the absolute center of their attention. Life coaching is all about you accomplishing your coachable goals on your terms, on your pace, on your agenda (Dueease, 2007).

*Your life coach will ask you personal questions about you for the purpose of having you reveal what is inside you that you cannot see. You will open up to your coach to divulge what make you tick, to unravel the mystery of you. Once you reveal your inner thoughts, feelings and motivations that you had previously not known about or fully understood, your coach will reflect them back to you. Your life coach will become your mirror to describe to you what you divulged to your coach (Dueease, 2007).

4. Does your life need a coach?
*At home: Coaching provides personalized strategies and shortcuts to organize your day and keep you on track. Or you might finally get your closets organized — and keep them that way. A coach doesn’t just solve time-management or organizational problems for you, he or she helps you identify them and teaches you how to develop solutions to prevent them from recurring.

*At Work: A coach can help you navigate the tricky waters of office politics. Even a procrastination problem can be solved with a little support. A coach can teach you to break down a big project into several smaller ones that are less overwhelming and easier to complete. If you need help with long-term goals, coaching can help you objectively review your future employment, promotion or salary goals.

*Personal life: It is different from talking to a friend or family member. Friends mean well and can certainly lend a supportive ear, but completing homework assigned by a life coach can break down mental barriers such as ‘I can’t draw’, ‘I can’t run a mile’ or ‘I don’t know how to sew.’ A coach understands that the idea of running a mile can feel daunting for someone who’s never jogged down the street. She works with you to find creative ways to break down the ‘can’ts’ into a series of small triumphs and ‘cans.’ (Unilever, 2008).

*Often, people need someone to help them take the dreams they have in their heads -- the visions of what they want to do next with their lives -- and do the work to make them a reality. Remember that you get out of the coaching experience what you put into it, so hire a coach when you're ready to make changes, and devote your attention to doing the work. A coach can be a powerful asset, but they will work in a partnership with you, and you determine where you want that partnership to go (Pawlowski, 2007).

5. What do we discuss in a coaching session?
*You will discover: Your passions (the ones you know about, those you suspect but are not sure of and those that have been hidden within you that want to come out) ; Your self-imposed obstacles (what you do not want to do, the opposite of passions) ; Your beliefs and values, some people call this spirituality as opposed to religion, (your boundaries and integrity points) ; Your talents (the ones you know about, those you suspect but are not sure of and those that have been hidden within you that want to come out) ; Your priorities what is most important to you, what is second, third, etc (Dueease, 2007).

*This process of discovery will take several months to accomplish because there is a lot there to unravel. The end result is that you will become the World’s Leading Expert on You! The biggest mystery in the world is not global warming, but is the mystery of ourselves. The reason the life coaching process has become so popular, so valuable, and has grown so much in only sixteen years is because life coaching assists people to discover themselves in such a short time, with so much more accuracy, and in such a supportive and confidential (secret) environment (Dueease, 2007).

References:
Austin & Brain. (2008). Coaching and Counseling: What is the Connection? Found online 7/27/09 at http://www.julietaustin.com/article-coaching-counseling.html
Dueease, B. (2007). How Does Life Coaching Work? The Coach Connection Blog. Found online 7/27/09 at http://findyourcoach.blogharbor.com/blog/_archives/2007/8/27/3186956.html
Pawlowski, A. (2007). Getting Unstuck: Does Your Life Need a Life Coach? CNN.com. Found online 7/27/009 at http://www.cnn.com/2007/LIVING/worklife/08/01/wlb.life.coaches/
Unilever Group. (2008). Do You Need a Life Coach? Found online 7/27/09 at http://www.executivehealthwealth.com/makinglifebetter.pdf

When it Rains, It Pours!

2009-07-18T13:42:00.009-04:00

In Raleigh, NC this week we had quite a monsoon! Aside from lightning and high winds, it was the rain that amazed me: the constant sheer force of a downpour for several days. Sheets of rain, torrents of liquefying repetitions...you get the idea.

Most of us Type A Personalities (driven, hard working, competent) tend to get burnt out quickly and do nothing about it. Most of the time, we work too hard, love too hard, or simply 'be' at higher levels than is expected of us. Our adrenal depletion and cortisol levels start to mimic those strange salmon who swim upstream in mating season. We just keep going, even though we know we're tired.

I embrace my Type A Personality. However, embracing this God-given personality means to take care of the weaknesses too. In those times in my life when it 'pours', re-evaluation is needed, deeper rest, time away from work or stress related triggers, the list goes on. God gives us responsibilities not to weaken us, but to embrace and grow our area of comfort.

Sometimes, when it rains, it pours. Work never trickles in, it pours in torrents all at once. I recently learned that dreams of water or rain can refer to a time of cleansing or sharpening. So true! Those times in our life where everything happens at once can all seem like a blur; in the moment they last forever!

Tips:

Extend: Find those encouraging support networks (your best friend, your church, your mom/dad), and simply extend your need of prayer.
Journal! This has been a big help in my life. Journal your dreams, your daily activities, your stressors, anything to help 'unload' your brain. Find a journal that inspires you!
Relax. Exercise, walk, take many naps, play with the dog, pray, have some 'you' time. This releases endorphins in the brain that help reduce stress.
Delegate and Organize! If your work load is too overwhelming and you simply can't get out of your whirlwind, try to first organize your thoughts and tasks. Also organizing your surroundings has a HUGE effect on negative stressers. Delegating your responsibility (if possible) to help get the work load off is also a great idea, but not an excuse for avoidance.

Penguine Sex (and Faith)

2009-07-07T18:38:00.007-04:00

Last night I was reading Blue Like Jazz: Nonreligious Thoughts on Christian Spirituality (2003) by Donald Miller. Chapter 5 opens with the heading "Penguin Sex (and Faith)." Startled and curious at the same time, I found out that Donald Miller (no relation by the way) was relating our internal voice of faith to penguins during their mating rituals.
Let me explain, although D. Miller does a much better job: penguins swim in large packs until they hit a chunk of ice. They then hop on the ice, and crawl on their belly (which carves little tunnels), until they feel the need to stop. The group of penguins (around 500+) begin something like a disco dance, finding their mate in such a large dance room. The ritual commences, the female lays the egg and hands it off to the male with her flippers. This is the interesting part: the male sits on the egg until it hatches.

Where did momma go, you ask? She's off hunting, grocery shopping, getting her nails done; you know, all the typical female busyness. She could be a hundred miles away. The males are left in the huge huddle collecting warmth with the center penguins circulating outward to keep the heat equal. As almost by maternal instinct, the female returns a month later to sift through the dance floor, find her man, and watch the babies crack the shell.

What's the point of all of this penguin talk? Have you ever felt like you had an internal radar that told you where to go, what to do, and that it all somehow made sense? Like the momma penguin showing up at the exact moment to find her babies being born, faith tends to act like an invisible radar. D. Miller explains, "I have a radar inside me that says to believe in Jesus. Somehow, penguin radar leads them perfectly well. Maybe it isn't so foolish that I follow the radar that is inside of me"(p. 57).

We all have that internal compass; that inner voice that nudges you saying "This sounds fishy," or "This is the better path." Most of us ignore our inner voice, what Christian's call the Holy Spirit, causing us to miss the highlights in our life and stray off course. Sometimes that voice comes in a whisper, you just have to be listening.

Miller, Donald. (2003). Blue Like Jazz: Nonreligious Thoughts on Christian Spirituality. (p. 57).Thomas Nelson, Inc.

http://www.donaldmillerwords.com/bluelikejazz.php