If you're looking for a GREAT book, I just read "The Grace and Truth Paradox" by Randy Alcorn. I read it about 3 years ago and it impacted me so much, I wanted to read it again. I think I'm going to read it once a year to remind me of this balance that I need in my life. It's a short read but it truly is life changing. The theme of the book is the essential, perfect balance of grace and truth. It also touches on many different topics, here are just a few: conservative vs liberal, our society's mindset of entitlement, and looking at our own sins -are they any better than say, Hitler's? ...check it out!
"When a musical instrument's strings go loose, it sounds awful. But you can also overtighten the strings, breaking them or creating discord. There's a perfect tension to grace and truth which makes the gospel (good news) music."
"When you know you deserve eternal hell, it puts a 'bad day' in perspective! If you realize you're undeserving, suddenly the world comes alive- you're surprised and grateful and God's many kindnesses that were invisible when you thought you deserved better. Instead of drowning in self-pity, you're floating on a sea of gratitude."
"Pride is a heavy burden. There is nothing like that feeling of lightness when God graciously lifts our self-illusions from our shoulders. Even refusing to forgive ourselves is an act of pride- it's making ourselves and our sins bigger than God and His grace."
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Lost and Found ...and not giving up!
Our morning started early today- Caleb's earlier than mine. He was up a little after 6am, which is unusual for a Sunday morning. He got up to get some chores done before the kids and I rose. (What a guy) He came back into our room later and said, "I set your alarm to let you sleep a little longer. Oh, and I found your sunglasses" My tired body perked up at these words, "WHERE?", I asked. He said they were right next to my side of the bed by my nightstand.
I have been looking for these sunglasses for over two weeks now. I have looked in every place I could imagine and have called a couple places I thought I might have accidentally left them. I even went so far as to wait in line at the Walmart customer service place to check with their lost and found. What's the big deal?, you might think. The thing is, Caleb bought me these $120 Arnettes a couple of years ago for Christmas and even though they're just a pair of sunglasses, they're special to me. Well, at the 2 week mark and after looking every where I could imagine, I had given up on Friday. I knew they were lost forever. Both Caleb and my friend Annie kept saying, "They'll turn up", but I was certain they really wouldn't.
Today proved me wrong. I cannot tell you how much this encouraged me on so many levels about many issues in my life right now. I had slept just a couple of feet from those sunglasses every night for the last 15 nights! I have vacuumed right by them and made my bed without noticing them. They were there, hidden away all along. I know it's crazy, but it has given me the encouragement to hang on in some areas I've been very tempted to give up in. Now I'm glad I lost my sunglasses because maybe I wouldn't have been inspired to "keep on keeping on" with some things that appear hopeless to my impatient eyes. I think in some situations maybe the answer is nearby and I just need to wait for the right timing to FIND the solution.
I have been looking for these sunglasses for over two weeks now. I have looked in every place I could imagine and have called a couple places I thought I might have accidentally left them. I even went so far as to wait in line at the Walmart customer service place to check with their lost and found. What's the big deal?, you might think. The thing is, Caleb bought me these $120 Arnettes a couple of years ago for Christmas and even though they're just a pair of sunglasses, they're special to me. Well, at the 2 week mark and after looking every where I could imagine, I had given up on Friday. I knew they were lost forever. Both Caleb and my friend Annie kept saying, "They'll turn up", but I was certain they really wouldn't.
Today proved me wrong. I cannot tell you how much this encouraged me on so many levels about many issues in my life right now. I had slept just a couple of feet from those sunglasses every night for the last 15 nights! I have vacuumed right by them and made my bed without noticing them. They were there, hidden away all along. I know it's crazy, but it has given me the encouragement to hang on in some areas I've been very tempted to give up in. Now I'm glad I lost my sunglasses because maybe I wouldn't have been inspired to "keep on keeping on" with some things that appear hopeless to my impatient eyes. I think in some situations maybe the answer is nearby and I just need to wait for the right timing to FIND the solution.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Gratitude
Have you ever kept a gratitude journal? I have one but I'm ashamed to admit I haven't written in it for quite a while. My purpose for starting a gratitude journal was to challenge myself to come up with 10 things everyday that I am thankful for without duplicating anything. So, you know, the first week you cover all the expected things that you're obviously immeasurably grateful for... husband, children, family, God's love, good health, a warm home, food, clothing... the most important things in our lives. Then week after week it gets more challenging to think of things to thank God for. When I journal in this way consistently, I find myself getting more and more creative and really thinking about the millions of blessings we enjoy each day. Beautiful sunsets, cool breezes, flowers, trees, a car with A/C, running water, shoes that fit, grocery stores nearby, money to buy groceries, friends who tell you the truth- even when it's not what you want to hear, competent people, eyes to see, morning rain... I could go on and on.
Today at lunch Delainey started eating and she gasped, as she sometimes does and said, "I forgot to pray!" So she prayed out loud and thanked God for her food and then thanked Him for every person in our family as well as grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. This is something her and Bryant often do and the thing that surprises me is that we've never really taught them to. It's almost as if they can't wait to say each person's name to God to really tell Him how glad they are to know that person. I love to hear them do this because it's precious to hear them go through this long list of names in their head while their food is sitting in front of them but the food isn't the most important thing at that moment. I think they really have it right when it comes to gratitude. They don't go through a list of toys, video games or any material item that they're thankful for. They go through a list of the people they are glad to have in their life. What a good example to me to be thankful for so many great people in my life! Also, what a great reminder that my children don't want more stuff, they want more quality time. No matter what my budget, I can provide that! I want to think more like them. Simple and grateful.
Today at lunch Delainey started eating and she gasped, as she sometimes does and said, "I forgot to pray!" So she prayed out loud and thanked God for her food and then thanked Him for every person in our family as well as grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. This is something her and Bryant often do and the thing that surprises me is that we've never really taught them to. It's almost as if they can't wait to say each person's name to God to really tell Him how glad they are to know that person. I love to hear them do this because it's precious to hear them go through this long list of names in their head while their food is sitting in front of them but the food isn't the most important thing at that moment. I think they really have it right when it comes to gratitude. They don't go through a list of toys, video games or any material item that they're thankful for. They go through a list of the people they are glad to have in their life. What a good example to me to be thankful for so many great people in my life! Also, what a great reminder that my children don't want more stuff, they want more quality time. No matter what my budget, I can provide that! I want to think more like them. Simple and grateful.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Thursday, September 13, 2007
13 People Who Have Inspired Me Recently
I'm stealing/borrowing this idea from my friend, Annie. She does Thursday's 13 every week. This is my first time but since today is Thursday the 13th, I felt it was appropriate!
This is in no particular order, just as thought came to me...
13. Bryant's 2nd grade teacher. She is AWESOME! We prayed that he'd have the right teacher and I'm certain she was Hand-picked for Bry! She is so fun but very articulate and firm. She is such a rare balance in a teacher. Usually they're very discipline oriented or fun oriented- she's the perfect blend of both!
12. The instructor for my photography class. He has such a unique approach to photography and the business side of things. It's been a good class to shake up my way of thinking on some things!
11. My girl, Delainey who reminds me not to take myself too seriously. She helps me to see the beauty in simple things and just enjoy each day that I've been given. I love her attitude like when I say, "We're going to buy groceries". She responds, "YAY!" Anything and everything is fun for DJ. I love that!
10. Ted and Karen, the hosts of our small group on Monday nights. I have no idea how they have their house cleaned and presentable, with 3 young children week after week. As inspiring as that is, the thing that really inspires me is their desire to open their home and honor God in such a sacrificial way.
9. My baby, Elle who shows me daily what unconditional love is really about. She thinks I am cool whether I'm wearing name brand or still in my old p.j.'s. She thinks I'm beautiful even before I've fixed my hair or put on make-up. She thinks I'm wonderful just as plain old me. And she thinks it's fun just to ride around on my hip without any additional entertainment. How cool is that?
8. My old friend, Angie who is strong and courageous and just moved to SC a few months ago. She inspires me because she is really having a hard time adjusting to living here. As we all know, moving to a different state with a modest income is HARD! I admire her because she is staying optimistic and continues to trust God even when so many things are scary and unclear. I can't wait to see things work out for her and I know they will.
7. My friend, Amanda, who I know from the Grand Canyon. She is my age, mother of two, very active and fit. Last November her heart stopped and her husband (a paramedic) had to bring her back. She inspires me because even though she has been through SO much in the last year, she stays focused and optimistic. She never feels sorry for herself or dwells on how hard it's been for her and her family. She is an amazing mom and woman. She sets a high standard and I continually use her as an example of the kind of woman I want to be.
6. Jim and June Warren, who are by far the coolest old people I have ever met. I've never known people in their 80's who are so with it and easy to talk to. They remind me of a couple in their 30's or 40's- in more ways than one. Jim and June inspire me in so many ways and have influenced our marriage hugely. They and are such a great example of staying in love through the years. Also, they inspire me to stay in touch with younger generations, no matter how old I am.
5. My friend, Annie , who I think is just wired with a servant's heart. She'll probably get mad at me for putting this on here because she wouldn't ever want any public credit, but too bad. She has been helping me with my girls so I can go to photography class and I continually overhear her offering to help others. Last week she made dinner for us when Caleb was out of town. Yesterday I heard her offer to watch a pregnant friend's little boy because they are moving into a new home. Tomorrow she's making a meal for a mutual friend who's son is in the hospital. Is that an example of a generous person or what? I want to give like that!
4. My son, Bryant. He has inspired me lately by his optimism and child-like faith. As we were waiting for the bus this morning, he said, "I think I hear the bus coming Mom. Will you pray for me before I go?" If he only knew how amazing he is! I love that kid so much!
3. My parents. Both of their pictures are in the dictionary, in case you didn't know. My dad's is under the word(s) "Hard Worker" and my mom's is under the word "Perseverance". I admire them and the attitude they have, especially when they're against all odds. They inspire me to press on in the toughest times!
2. My man, Caleb. What an example of a person with a good heart and good will towards others. I love so many things about Caleb, but his tenderness towards others has really impacted me lately. I love that he has such a soft spot for people who are hurting and doesn't ever want to a source of hurt for anyone. I love that he's man enough to tear up when he's moved by something. And I love that he will talk to anyone and treat them as his equal regardless of their social status, handicap or anything else.
1. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I'm realizing over and over again that He really desires a relationship with me and even though it makes no sense at all, He sees me as valuable and precious. He wants me to love Him with all my heart, my mind, soul & strength. How often I worship the gift and not the Giver. "This stuff competes for the allegiance I owe only to the Giver of all good things." -Rich Mullins
This is in no particular order, just as thought came to me...
13. Bryant's 2nd grade teacher. She is AWESOME! We prayed that he'd have the right teacher and I'm certain she was Hand-picked for Bry! She is so fun but very articulate and firm. She is such a rare balance in a teacher. Usually they're very discipline oriented or fun oriented- she's the perfect blend of both!
12. The instructor for my photography class. He has such a unique approach to photography and the business side of things. It's been a good class to shake up my way of thinking on some things!
11. My girl, Delainey who reminds me not to take myself too seriously. She helps me to see the beauty in simple things and just enjoy each day that I've been given. I love her attitude like when I say, "We're going to buy groceries". She responds, "YAY!" Anything and everything is fun for DJ. I love that!
10. Ted and Karen, the hosts of our small group on Monday nights. I have no idea how they have their house cleaned and presentable, with 3 young children week after week. As inspiring as that is, the thing that really inspires me is their desire to open their home and honor God in such a sacrificial way.
9. My baby, Elle who shows me daily what unconditional love is really about. She thinks I am cool whether I'm wearing name brand or still in my old p.j.'s. She thinks I'm beautiful even before I've fixed my hair or put on make-up. She thinks I'm wonderful just as plain old me. And she thinks it's fun just to ride around on my hip without any additional entertainment. How cool is that?
8. My old friend, Angie who is strong and courageous and just moved to SC a few months ago. She inspires me because she is really having a hard time adjusting to living here. As we all know, moving to a different state with a modest income is HARD! I admire her because she is staying optimistic and continues to trust God even when so many things are scary and unclear. I can't wait to see things work out for her and I know they will.
7. My friend, Amanda, who I know from the Grand Canyon. She is my age, mother of two, very active and fit. Last November her heart stopped and her husband (a paramedic) had to bring her back. She inspires me because even though she has been through SO much in the last year, she stays focused and optimistic. She never feels sorry for herself or dwells on how hard it's been for her and her family. She is an amazing mom and woman. She sets a high standard and I continually use her as an example of the kind of woman I want to be.
6. Jim and June Warren, who are by far the coolest old people I have ever met. I've never known people in their 80's who are so with it and easy to talk to. They remind me of a couple in their 30's or 40's- in more ways than one. Jim and June inspire me in so many ways and have influenced our marriage hugely. They and are such a great example of staying in love through the years. Also, they inspire me to stay in touch with younger generations, no matter how old I am.
5. My friend, Annie , who I think is just wired with a servant's heart. She'll probably get mad at me for putting this on here because she wouldn't ever want any public credit, but too bad. She has been helping me with my girls so I can go to photography class and I continually overhear her offering to help others. Last week she made dinner for us when Caleb was out of town. Yesterday I heard her offer to watch a pregnant friend's little boy because they are moving into a new home. Tomorrow she's making a meal for a mutual friend who's son is in the hospital. Is that an example of a generous person or what? I want to give like that!
4. My son, Bryant. He has inspired me lately by his optimism and child-like faith. As we were waiting for the bus this morning, he said, "I think I hear the bus coming Mom. Will you pray for me before I go?" If he only knew how amazing he is! I love that kid so much!
3. My parents. Both of their pictures are in the dictionary, in case you didn't know. My dad's is under the word(s) "Hard Worker" and my mom's is under the word "Perseverance". I admire them and the attitude they have, especially when they're against all odds. They inspire me to press on in the toughest times!
2. My man, Caleb. What an example of a person with a good heart and good will towards others. I love so many things about Caleb, but his tenderness towards others has really impacted me lately. I love that he has such a soft spot for people who are hurting and doesn't ever want to a source of hurt for anyone. I love that he's man enough to tear up when he's moved by something. And I love that he will talk to anyone and treat them as his equal regardless of their social status, handicap or anything else.
1. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I'm realizing over and over again that He really desires a relationship with me and even though it makes no sense at all, He sees me as valuable and precious. He wants me to love Him with all my heart, my mind, soul & strength. How often I worship the gift and not the Giver. "This stuff competes for the allegiance I owe only to the Giver of all good things." -Rich Mullins
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Lifetime of Learning...
I just completed week 2 of my second photography class at Charleston's Center for Photography. This class is great but a little intimidating because it's all about having your work critiqued by the instructor as well as the rest of the students in class. My first assignment went very well with a lot of great feedback (whew). In trying to grow myself into a better photographer, I've been getting out some of my old stuff that I photographed in prior years and critiquing myself. Thankfully, I'm my toughest critic because I'd die of humiliation if my class were as hard on me as I am on myself.
As I was looking at some of my older work I saw some really great stuff and then I saw some stuff I wish I'd never shot. In a way I guess that's good because I can see that I'm making progress. I sometimes would see a shot and realize my composition was all wrong or my exposure was not right. I would cringe and think "why didn't I see that?" With some images that I once thought were pretty good, I'm now throwing in the trash.
Life can be like that too. Sometimes when I think back to seasons in my life (some not too long ago), I cringe and think, "why didn't I see that?" or "why did I say that". I wonder why I acted in a certain way or lacked the wisdom and knowledge to handle myself better in a situation. Sometimes it's hard to look back and I don't think it's productive to do too often because we should continue to look forward and press on. Occasionally, I do think it can be useful to look back though, to learn from our selves and our own history. I sometimes think how I'd like to handle things if I got a "Do-over".
I'm so thankful that God doesn't require perfection from us. I would miss the mark every time. I'm also so glad He lets us learn and loves us enough to keep teaching us and refining us. I can't go back and re shoot all the great photographs I missed in years past or go undo all the wrong things I've done, but I can look for new opportunities with a better understanding of what I want to accomplish. Thank you God for allowing me to look back but not requiring me to.
As I was looking at some of my older work I saw some really great stuff and then I saw some stuff I wish I'd never shot. In a way I guess that's good because I can see that I'm making progress. I sometimes would see a shot and realize my composition was all wrong or my exposure was not right. I would cringe and think "why didn't I see that?" With some images that I once thought were pretty good, I'm now throwing in the trash.
Life can be like that too. Sometimes when I think back to seasons in my life (some not too long ago), I cringe and think, "why didn't I see that?" or "why did I say that". I wonder why I acted in a certain way or lacked the wisdom and knowledge to handle myself better in a situation. Sometimes it's hard to look back and I don't think it's productive to do too often because we should continue to look forward and press on. Occasionally, I do think it can be useful to look back though, to learn from our selves and our own history. I sometimes think how I'd like to handle things if I got a "Do-over".
I'm so thankful that God doesn't require perfection from us. I would miss the mark every time. I'm also so glad He lets us learn and loves us enough to keep teaching us and refining us. I can't go back and re shoot all the great photographs I missed in years past or go undo all the wrong things I've done, but I can look for new opportunities with a better understanding of what I want to accomplish. Thank you God for allowing me to look back but not requiring me to.
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