Amazing. How one touch can make your day seem a little less lonely. A smile encourages you to keep going. An encouraging word you felt you could live. Words...touches...glances they're much powerful then one often thinks.
Friends. How often friends are underrated. They shape and form our lives in ways we never imagine. Friends...meaning at least one portion of your life is vulnerable. In order to have friends you must step outside of yourself and give something of yourself to them. Sometimes we get burn because we hastily give our hearts away. Other times we're too guarded...and end up losing them. Friends can make or break your relationship to others, if you let them. They can determined your outlook on life. Sometimes especially younger people they listen to their peers as if they have the wisdom. And sometimes they do have the wisdom. Over the years I have reliezed just how important friends are...
Friends are not to take the place of parents or God. But rather help you along in your journey in Christ. Friends must tell the truth (tactfully if they can) when God tells them to. I consider true friends when they have seen at your best and at your worst, yet they love and like because they understand that we are all human.
Please, don't say friends are unimportant. They are. Don't say that you don't matter, because to God you do. To at least one person in the world you are a friend and to that person you matter.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Quiet Peace
There are times, where I just have to shove everything aside. Take just 5 minutes to take a deep breath. Look outside at the sky. School calls, but my heart yearns. For something more than just school more than what books can offer. I'm surrounded by people, but none reaches my inner heart. I'm alone...but not quite. Of all the times I've desire to walk a soft slow walk, my head has bent over my work. So I have learned somtimes it is best to leave and go. Somewhere where my heart is. Where no one else can touch, beacuse it is mine alone to share. The place where I am truly happy and content. Though my body can not take those walks I've yearned for, my heart has soared gently to the One who has captured my heart long ago.
All my tears are nothing compared to His. My joy can't possible matched to His delight. He know me better than anyone even myself.
All my tears are nothing compared to His. My joy can't possible matched to His delight. He know me better than anyone even myself.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
As of this moment it is 10:42 at night. To my surprise, I am not yet tired. Although in truthfulness, I ought to be exhausted. College has been a challenged in many ways. The majority of it consist of 4 major things:
The first, fighting for the time to be with my Dad. There are rarely any free time, no I have to make time. This semester like all my life, I have had to rely heavily on His strength. Reminding myself why I am going to College.
The second, was being away from my parents. My mom and I have grown very close since Kate went away to college. In fact there was rarely a day that we did not spent time with each other. She is one of my dearest and best friends. I spent long hours at Pellissippi and often came home with an armful of homework with time only to do chores and dinner. The rest of my free time was taken by drama and voice. For a little bit, I had grown afraid that I'd lose that special friendship mom and I had developed over the year and half. If anything, it got stronger. Since I could not see her and Dad as often as I'd like, I was always hungry for the sight of them.
The Third, making friends is not always easy. Being Pellissippi often had me make friends or at least be friendly whether I wanted to or not. In fact, except for my last year of high school, I have made more friends in college than almost anywhere else. I have stepped multiple times out of my comfort zone in order to make a friend. I am glad I was able to take the opportunity God gave me.
The forth was perhaps other than trying to find time with God was the most difficult. I was disliking Pellissippi heavily in the beginning. I felt overwhelm, and had no time to spend with my parent or just to get my breathe. To tell the truth, I had thought of throwing it away, leaving it unfinished, and go be with my family. But I believed had I done that, I would have been struggling harder than if I kept going. I had fought so hard just to get into Pellissippi, I was not going to end the semester without fight...if nothing else I can say I gave it my all and I do not quite something without careful consideration.
Though everything I have said, I have pretty much said one thing. Rely On God. That's the only way you can make it through anything. If you need to rant to Him, my goodness rant to Him. He already know what you're thinking anyways. Just don't forget to thank Him either even for the bad choice you make. Because for every wrong choice you make, you learn. He is always there, just sometimes we can't always feel Him. That's where faith and grace come in. One last thing before I say good night. Give grace to yourself so you can extend grace to others. The worst person to beat up on yourself is you. In others words...people can criticize you, but in the end it is you who allows the critique to be effective.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Another story, one we've all heard before, but maybe different side
Have you ever read something that you get one side of the story? That side was the only one you've heard all your life and soon you believe there is nothing else new in that story? I am beginning to learn, even year after you study the scriptures or a particular story there's usually always another side.
If you do not mind, I'd love to invite you to an old, old story. One even the littlest child has probably heard. It's the story of the Lost sheep. Please, join me as I write out the story.
Now the tax collectors and the "sinners" were all getting around to hear him. But the Phariseees and the teachers of the law muttered, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them"
Then Jesus told them this parable: Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. THen he calls his friends and neighbors together and says 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety- nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
Luke 15
I have been told many times the story up to a point. So many times I have been told " The shepherd rejoiced over the 1 lost sheep over the ninety- nine who were not lost," I believe it be true.
If just one person accepts Jesus Christ, there is GREAT rejoicing in heaven. Trumpets are probably blown, angels shouts, and I have this vision of God actually getting up and dancing. I'll have to ask Him if He really does do that, but I think He does. God rejoices over just one sinner who come accepts Jesus Christ over the ninety-nine.
Here what I am trying to get to. Please take note of the beginning of the scripture and the very last sentence. Now the tax collectors and the "sinners" were all getting around to hear him. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them" The last sentence, I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety- nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
Do you see the connection? The Pharisees and the teacher's of the law were in that parable. The verse states "...There will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents over ninety-nine righteous persons who do need to repent. That one person accepted Jesus who is grace. He was free to live, a clean slate wiped to start over. The ninety- nine (pharisees) who did not need to repent , there were no rejoicing over.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
I don't know what to write really. My mind is musing over many things. Over responsibilities I must do and over the things I must study. Right now, all I want is to mull over thoughts aimless thoughts perhaps. Just write even if its not important.
Have you ever noticed the blue sky? Just stare at it, how in the middle of the sky it is the bluest. Toward the ends no matter which directions you look, north, east, west, or south it fades to the palest blue or grey? Did you ever wonder why God made the sky blue?
I love listening. To me listening is not granted to you, listening...hearing is a privilege. the rain drops falling on rooftops. The wind singing as it twirls around me. Birds twittering their glad songs. My mom telling me "She is glad that I'm hers and she loves me" My Dad saying "I'm proud of you" My sibling laughter. Most of all...I hear my Beloved voice.
Of late I've been pondering grace. How I long to get it! No matter how hard I've tried it doesn't seem that I have even grasp what grace is. My Pastor has preach for many a weeks now on the subject of grace. Yet, it seems I can hardly get it. I want to. Grace? What is Grace? How do you receive grace? Well...I know for a fact with faith come grace and from grace comes healing. Jesus and Grace goes together, they can not be separated. Jesus is grace. Who is Jesus? The Son of God. The son of God? He is life. Grace... freedom. The ability to be free. Grace is the opposite of Legalistic. There's no list to make with Grace. Grace? For a five letter word grace gives a much deeper meaning than it appears.
Mercy...to forgive. Extended grace...to be saved or to save. Does mercy go with grace? My mind is wandering. I want to get so much what my Pastor is excited...no thrilled about! I long to understand. I pray that I may grasp the understanding of grace fully.
Forgive me if my writing is barely readable . My fingers have longed wanted to write, and my heart is heavy and yet light. Sometimes it is good to let random pondering thoughts peek out through the busy seasons. I hope next time my thoughts will be more organized, but tonight I just had to share.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
My Best Friend
Today, is my dearest Kate's birthday. Two and Twenty years old, brown hair beauty has the prettiest blue eyes you'll see. This gorgeous woman of God is one of my dearest friend and I am so glad that she is my sister! May God bless her on this day!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
A quote from Leaves of Gold
A world without a Sunday would be like a man without a smile, like a summer without flowers, and like a homstead without a garden. It is the joyous day of the whole week.
~Henry Ward Beecher
Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre...
~Luke 24:1
~Henry Ward Beecher
Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre...
~Luke 24:1
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
A newspaper clip
Normally I don't read newspapers. There are only 3 reasons if I do. 1, for comics and puzzles ( I am sucker for comics especially Archie's) 2, cheap sales/coupons and 3, for jobs. At any rate, My grandparents have a newspaper subscription in which I eagerly go for the comics and puzzles. My eyes caught a Dear Annie clip. Since it was Thanksgiving I decided perhaps this time there will be something good, I'll learn something from this. I'm glad I did. Here down below is a clip from Dear Annie...please enjoy.
From Annie herself:
Today is Thanksgiving. We hope you are lucky enough to be spending the holiday with loving family and friends. Here's one of our favorite Thanksgiving pieces author unknown:
Thanksgiving Prayer,
We come to this table today, O Lord, Humble and thankful and glad. We thank thee first for the great miracle of life, for the exaltation of being human, for the capacity to love. We thank Thee for jobs both great and simple- For wonder, dreams, and hope; For the newness of each day For laughter and song and a merry heart; For compassion waiting within to be kindle; For the forbearance of Friend and the smile of a stranger, for the arching of the earth and trees and heavens and the fruit of all three; For the wisdom of the old; for the courage of the young; for the promise of the child; for the strength that comes when needed for this family united here today of those to whom much is given, much is required. May we and our children remember this. A-men
Dear Annie: I lived on the streets of Los Angeles from 2001 to 2003. I won't go into reasons why, but I didn't think I could go home. The ravages of homelessness took their tool on my eye-glasses pretty quickly. One of the earpieces was missing and a lens kept popping out. It was terribly demoralizing. People are less apt to give you opportunities to better yourself when you go beyond a certain point in appearance. I was ready to give up.
One day on impulse, I stopped into an eye wear boutique on Melrose Avenue. It was a nice store and I was bedraggled, so I expected to be immediately escorted out the door. That didn't happen. I asked the lady behind the counter how much it would cost for me to purchase on earpiece. I braced myself for a sarcastic comment, but instead she asked me to have a seat. She came back in about 5 minutes and said, "Try these one. Do they fit?" And then she handed me a brand now pair of frames. I stammered that I couldn't afford them and she replied, "don't worry, sweetie. You don't owe me anything."
I began to cry. She made a few adjustments and never flinched away from me in spite of my obvious need of a shower. She was kind enough to give me a drink of cold water. She even hugged me before I left.
I don't know the woman's name and cannot remember the name of the shop, but for years I've wanted to thank her for helping restore my dignity and preserve my safety. She also reminded me that there are wonderfully people in the world who don't judge you, based on your appearance or circumstances.
I give her much credit for my getting off the streets because shortly after that, I regained the courage to turn my life around. I'm now a wife and mother to a beautiful little boy, my family is speaking to me again, and I'm about to graduate from college.
Ma'am, if you're reading this, God bless you! Your kind gesture saved my life. I've been and will continue to paying it foreword to others in need, and you will be in my heart forever.
-I can see clearly now
There's not much I can say. Every time I read this clip, I sit in awe and with tears in my eyes. We do have the power to make a difference...the question is are we willing? Will we get outside of ourselves and reach out to others? Will we look past our comforts to look for those who need our help whether it is obvious or not? The choice is yours. What decision will you make?
From Annie herself:
Today is Thanksgiving. We hope you are lucky enough to be spending the holiday with loving family and friends. Here's one of our favorite Thanksgiving pieces author unknown:
Thanksgiving Prayer,
We come to this table today, O Lord, Humble and thankful and glad. We thank thee first for the great miracle of life, for the exaltation of being human, for the capacity to love. We thank Thee for jobs both great and simple- For wonder, dreams, and hope; For the newness of each day For laughter and song and a merry heart; For compassion waiting within to be kindle; For the forbearance of Friend and the smile of a stranger, for the arching of the earth and trees and heavens and the fruit of all three; For the wisdom of the old; for the courage of the young; for the promise of the child; for the strength that comes when needed for this family united here today of those to whom much is given, much is required. May we and our children remember this. A-men
Dear Annie: I lived on the streets of Los Angeles from 2001 to 2003. I won't go into reasons why, but I didn't think I could go home. The ravages of homelessness took their tool on my eye-glasses pretty quickly. One of the earpieces was missing and a lens kept popping out. It was terribly demoralizing. People are less apt to give you opportunities to better yourself when you go beyond a certain point in appearance. I was ready to give up.
One day on impulse, I stopped into an eye wear boutique on Melrose Avenue. It was a nice store and I was bedraggled, so I expected to be immediately escorted out the door. That didn't happen. I asked the lady behind the counter how much it would cost for me to purchase on earpiece. I braced myself for a sarcastic comment, but instead she asked me to have a seat. She came back in about 5 minutes and said, "Try these one. Do they fit?" And then she handed me a brand now pair of frames. I stammered that I couldn't afford them and she replied, "don't worry, sweetie. You don't owe me anything."
I began to cry. She made a few adjustments and never flinched away from me in spite of my obvious need of a shower. She was kind enough to give me a drink of cold water. She even hugged me before I left.
I don't know the woman's name and cannot remember the name of the shop, but for years I've wanted to thank her for helping restore my dignity and preserve my safety. She also reminded me that there are wonderfully people in the world who don't judge you, based on your appearance or circumstances.
I give her much credit for my getting off the streets because shortly after that, I regained the courage to turn my life around. I'm now a wife and mother to a beautiful little boy, my family is speaking to me again, and I'm about to graduate from college.
Ma'am, if you're reading this, God bless you! Your kind gesture saved my life. I've been and will continue to paying it foreword to others in need, and you will be in my heart forever.
-I can see clearly now
There's not much I can say. Every time I read this clip, I sit in awe and with tears in my eyes. We do have the power to make a difference...the question is are we willing? Will we get outside of ourselves and reach out to others? Will we look past our comforts to look for those who need our help whether it is obvious or not? The choice is yours. What decision will you make?
Thursday, June 11, 2009
A last glance at 18 years before tomorrow
Wow. Nearly a year has gone by. Tomorrow I will wake an eighteen year old and go to bed as a nineteen year old. The fact whether I like it or not, my birthday is nearly here. I wish time would stand still for a moment, but that is a hopeless wish. Like every night before my birthday arrives, I sit and ponder what I have learned.
Last year I had my birthday in Honduras. 20 or 30 people sung to me. For the first time I had little Debbie's as my cake for my birthday. Mom and Dad brought two gifts (Kate brought me two one a beautiful yellow rose which was brought quite recently and scotches which I have yet to find)...a happy camper cap and my all time favorite Archies Comics. That was it. You know what? It was perfect. That was it. My birthday entailed being embarrassed by singing people ( which shall remain foevere in my memeory and I'm so glad they sung), little Debbie's, and gifts. I wouldn't change a thing other than the fact I'd wish Chris would have come.
The law viewed me as an adult. The problem was...until recently I saw myself NO where near as an adult. To some degrees I still don't. Yet, I look back and see how far I've come.
I went on my 1st mission trip. For three months I took care of the house and family. Started college. Went to a prom with a guy. Yes...I actually agreed to go to a prom as friends with a guy. My 1st outing so to speak with a guy except to give boys rides back and forth to destinations. I've taught two classes in Jubilee Shores ( kid's church); the first time with an adult who was just there to help, and the second I taught by myself. Started my blog. Took pictures for a wedding. Asked to take pictures for a wedding down in Flordia. Crochet my first adult blanket and 2 baby blankets. House/pet sit for a week. The list goes on, but I shall stop here. All of these are my "1st".
I've had to think a lot of my future. Now I have a good idea of what will happen. But of course, I am prepared if God say nope! I want you to do something else. This has been the only year that I've had to think a lot of the future, more than I care to actually. But I must be perpare and not forget to enjoy today for "today".
For my birthday, I'll have homemade soy icecream. Mom's allgery won't allow her to have dairy prodects much. Until evening comes, it'll be me and mom. Chris works, and Dad works. Last year I had a brother who did not come to my birthday. This year, my best friend and sister will be for the first time will not be attending my birthday. It's hard to imagen my sister not being there. But I know she'd be here instead of Chili if she could. At least we'll be able to celebrate her birthday together and on the beach too which will thrill me.
So I have the most blessed oppertunity to have mom for my birthday. What a gift! Tomorrow is going to be a wonderful, incrediable day. Despite I want something very different...like actually have friends my age over, I'll take time with mom any time. The best part...is my Father will be here celebrating.
Last year I had my birthday in Honduras. 20 or 30 people sung to me. For the first time I had little Debbie's as my cake for my birthday. Mom and Dad brought two gifts (Kate brought me two one a beautiful yellow rose which was brought quite recently and scotches which I have yet to find)...a happy camper cap and my all time favorite Archies Comics. That was it. You know what? It was perfect. That was it. My birthday entailed being embarrassed by singing people ( which shall remain foevere in my memeory and I'm so glad they sung), little Debbie's, and gifts. I wouldn't change a thing other than the fact I'd wish Chris would have come.
The law viewed me as an adult. The problem was...until recently I saw myself NO where near as an adult. To some degrees I still don't. Yet, I look back and see how far I've come.
I went on my 1st mission trip. For three months I took care of the house and family. Started college. Went to a prom with a guy. Yes...I actually agreed to go to a prom as friends with a guy. My 1st outing so to speak with a guy except to give boys rides back and forth to destinations. I've taught two classes in Jubilee Shores ( kid's church); the first time with an adult who was just there to help, and the second I taught by myself. Started my blog. Took pictures for a wedding. Asked to take pictures for a wedding down in Flordia. Crochet my first adult blanket and 2 baby blankets. House/pet sit for a week. The list goes on, but I shall stop here. All of these are my "1st".
I've had to think a lot of my future. Now I have a good idea of what will happen. But of course, I am prepared if God say nope! I want you to do something else. This has been the only year that I've had to think a lot of the future, more than I care to actually. But I must be perpare and not forget to enjoy today for "today".
For my birthday, I'll have homemade soy icecream. Mom's allgery won't allow her to have dairy prodects much. Until evening comes, it'll be me and mom. Chris works, and Dad works. Last year I had a brother who did not come to my birthday. This year, my best friend and sister will be for the first time will not be attending my birthday. It's hard to imagen my sister not being there. But I know she'd be here instead of Chili if she could. At least we'll be able to celebrate her birthday together and on the beach too which will thrill me.
So I have the most blessed oppertunity to have mom for my birthday. What a gift! Tomorrow is going to be a wonderful, incrediable day. Despite I want something very different...like actually have friends my age over, I'll take time with mom any time. The best part...is my Father will be here celebrating.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Reflections of Daniel and King David
Last Wednesday, as I was getting to leave for house sitting for the night I took a glance at my mom. She was doing Beth Moore's devotions. My eyes caught the name Daniel. Daniel...had been long my favorite name and book of the bible. I always wondered why? What was about Daniel that I loved? Mom and I fell into a conversation about the men of the bible and how God used them.
I did not relate to Moses, Abraham, Elijah, Elisha, as well as I did Daniel and David. To be sure I learned much from the other men, please do not mistake that I am passing them by. No...simply Daniel and David have longest held my attention.
As I talked with mom I made an astonishing discovery. Was it perhaps I relate to Daniel because of his faith? Daniel had FULL confidence in God. If Daniel had full confidence in God, he must have known grace. Because with faith there must be grace. Daniel's relationship with God I believe was a foundation of faith, grace, and love. How else could he have stood up to Nebrazzarah; willing to risk everything, but his relationship with his Father? I began to think of Daniel a grace filled man because of his faith.
My equation may be wrong. When you accept Christ as your Lord and Savior, you experience love. From love come faith, and faith grows into grace. You can not have one with out the other.
David...the second king of Israel...a man after God's own heart. As usual I am always amazed, at the thought of God calling David a righteous man and a man after his heart. How awesome, how great that is. Just IMAGINE! David, who had faults just like me was called a righteous man.
What I have learned from David is...you will mess up and you will fail. BUT... when you find where your mistakes lie...turn to God. You can't fix your mistakes on your own...it's IMPOSSIBLE, however, He understood that with God that he can overcome his weaknesses. David wanted God's heart, he yearned for it.
Despite David's short comings...God gave him one of the best gifts. The Messiah would come from the line of David. David...knew what he wanted and He recieved God's heart.
I can't express what I am trying to say...my writing is probably all in shambles. But I hope that you get what I am trying to say. Daniel, who understood faith was a man filled with grace. David...longed and yearned for God's heart. God loved him in return though he was not perfect.
I did not relate to Moses, Abraham, Elijah, Elisha, as well as I did Daniel and David. To be sure I learned much from the other men, please do not mistake that I am passing them by. No...simply Daniel and David have longest held my attention.
As I talked with mom I made an astonishing discovery. Was it perhaps I relate to Daniel because of his faith? Daniel had FULL confidence in God. If Daniel had full confidence in God, he must have known grace. Because with faith there must be grace. Daniel's relationship with God I believe was a foundation of faith, grace, and love. How else could he have stood up to Nebrazzarah; willing to risk everything, but his relationship with his Father? I began to think of Daniel a grace filled man because of his faith.
My equation may be wrong. When you accept Christ as your Lord and Savior, you experience love. From love come faith, and faith grows into grace. You can not have one with out the other.
David...the second king of Israel...a man after God's own heart. As usual I am always amazed, at the thought of God calling David a righteous man and a man after his heart. How awesome, how great that is. Just IMAGINE! David, who had faults just like me was called a righteous man.
What I have learned from David is...you will mess up and you will fail. BUT... when you find where your mistakes lie...turn to God. You can't fix your mistakes on your own...it's IMPOSSIBLE, however, He understood that with God that he can overcome his weaknesses. David wanted God's heart, he yearned for it.
Despite David's short comings...God gave him one of the best gifts. The Messiah would come from the line of David. David...knew what he wanted and He recieved God's heart.
I can't express what I am trying to say...my writing is probably all in shambles. But I hope that you get what I am trying to say. Daniel, who understood faith was a man filled with grace. David...longed and yearned for God's heart. God loved him in return though he was not perfect.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
My Mom
Soft, Bright blue eyes twinkle in mirth and joy. Her curly brown hair gleams almost reddish brown in the sun. Her 'average' height of 5"4' barely an inch taller than her baby daughter, made her perfect to play games of all sort. Her lips part with laughter.
Even if I wanted to...I could not photograph my mom's beauty. A sound recorder would not do justice to her laughter. No stories can contain her goodness and love she has for me...for her family.
When I was younger...I vowed I'd take a picture that paints her inner beauty. So I did. Eagerly, I set to capture my mom. I painted her face, made her hair curly brown. Her eyes seemed to glisten in laughter. Excitedly, I made her a frame as well as a 10 year old could. Glittered covered every square inche of the frame in making. When I gave it to her... I waited breathlessly to see what she thought.
She smiled broadly and hugged me. I ran off to play. When I came back, she had hung it in the laundry room. She explained to me...that way when I do laundry I can always see it. Every time we opened the doors...I'd see my picture right there. Boy...I was proud of the picture.
Then one day...I noticed. I had forgotten her nose. My mom would not let me remove the picture although her nose was indeed missing. She loved it...for it was my first attempt of painting her.
Once more I tried to make something to describe her. For Christmas...I made a book of poems for her. I search for hours and hours...trying to write and find poems which could describe her. I wrote each poem down carefully and drew pictures to illustrate the poem. Delightfully, I pictured her face as she opened the present. She cried in happiness and read through the book over courses of days. Treasuring each poem and drawings I did. When I got older in my teen years, I read through the book. There was so many mistakes and the drawing...of a little girl. But as I read through I remembered how I wanted everything to be perfect for my mom.
This year....my mom was sick for close to three months. My dad had to work and Chris was working and doing college. Dearest Kate was in college an hour and a half way. I tended to my mom, clean the house, did shopping, prepared meals, a basic Secretary, hostess for life group, and started my first semester of collage. When I finally went to bed, I was dead tired. I murmured to myself...How on earth does mom do it?
She raised my best friend and sister along with me to be godly girls with a passion for Christ. Every chores...she taught us to do our best. If we lost it...we paid for it....we wanted it...we paid for it. She encouraged us in our walk with God. And let us know...no matter what we could always come to her....even if we sometimes/rarely disagreed on whatever topic we need advice on. She's not perfect...but she's my mom.
My mom has taught me so much, more than I can ever dream. What she has helped taught me the most is value, commitment, balance, understand responsibilites, and love. I only hope that I can help raise my kids along with my husband for God as well as my mom did.
Like I said before....no picture can capture my mom's beauty. No sound recorder can capture my mom's laugh. No story would be big enough to tell of her love and goodness.
Even if I wanted to...I could not photograph my mom's beauty. A sound recorder would not do justice to her laughter. No stories can contain her goodness and love she has for me...for her family.
When I was younger...I vowed I'd take a picture that paints her inner beauty. So I did. Eagerly, I set to capture my mom. I painted her face, made her hair curly brown. Her eyes seemed to glisten in laughter. Excitedly, I made her a frame as well as a 10 year old could. Glittered covered every square inche of the frame in making. When I gave it to her... I waited breathlessly to see what she thought.
She smiled broadly and hugged me. I ran off to play. When I came back, she had hung it in the laundry room. She explained to me...that way when I do laundry I can always see it. Every time we opened the doors...I'd see my picture right there. Boy...I was proud of the picture.
Then one day...I noticed. I had forgotten her nose. My mom would not let me remove the picture although her nose was indeed missing. She loved it...for it was my first attempt of painting her.
Once more I tried to make something to describe her. For Christmas...I made a book of poems for her. I search for hours and hours...trying to write and find poems which could describe her. I wrote each poem down carefully and drew pictures to illustrate the poem. Delightfully, I pictured her face as she opened the present. She cried in happiness and read through the book over courses of days. Treasuring each poem and drawings I did. When I got older in my teen years, I read through the book. There was so many mistakes and the drawing...of a little girl. But as I read through I remembered how I wanted everything to be perfect for my mom.
This year....my mom was sick for close to three months. My dad had to work and Chris was working and doing college. Dearest Kate was in college an hour and a half way. I tended to my mom, clean the house, did shopping, prepared meals, a basic Secretary, hostess for life group, and started my first semester of collage. When I finally went to bed, I was dead tired. I murmured to myself...How on earth does mom do it?
She raised my best friend and sister along with me to be godly girls with a passion for Christ. Every chores...she taught us to do our best. If we lost it...we paid for it....we wanted it...we paid for it. She encouraged us in our walk with God. And let us know...no matter what we could always come to her....even if we sometimes/rarely disagreed on whatever topic we need advice on. She's not perfect...but she's my mom.
My mom has taught me so much, more than I can ever dream. What she has helped taught me the most is value, commitment, balance, understand responsibilites, and love. I only hope that I can help raise my kids along with my husband for God as well as my mom did.
Like I said before....no picture can capture my mom's beauty. No sound recorder can capture my mom's laugh. No story would be big enough to tell of her love and goodness.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
April
The roofs are shining from the rain,
The sparrows twitter as they fly,
And with a windy april grace
The little clouds go by.
Yet, the back yards are bare and brown
With only one unchanging tree-
I could not be so sure of Spring
Save that it sings in me
Sara Teasdale
The sparrows twitter as they fly,
And with a windy april grace
The little clouds go by.
Yet, the back yards are bare and brown
With only one unchanging tree-
I could not be so sure of Spring
Save that it sings in me
Sara Teasdale
Monday, April 13, 2009
Spring
Spring...a time of refreshing. Spring...a time for new things. Spring...a time for fulfilment.
It always seems at the end of winter, spring is around the corner. Filled with excitement, we watch day after day for the coming of spring. Eagerly, we await for the smell of flowers, sunny cool days, and walks in the blooming gardens. A purpose seems to fill the air that gives rest and refreshment to our weary souls. Wintery days have passed....the waiting has ended.
I can't help, but think of My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in moments like this. To me...He is spring. He's always here and yet always around the corner. How I long for His coming. He seems like spring, when the burdens of this world has left me empty and dried. He give me anew strength carry out the tasks, He has for me. Like a flower, He tenderly tend me...preparing me for days ahead such as the harsh, cold winters. Through all troubles, He's there making me stronger through Him. Through all joy, He's there teaching me how to live in Him.
I long to touch Him, see Him, smell Him, and take long walks in His gardens. He reminds me of His love, and holds me so I can stand. Unlike spring, Jesus is in my heard all year around. But there are seasons, (Winter/summer)when it is time for me be tested, and (spring/autum)a time for me to be rested.
It always seems at the end of winter, spring is around the corner. Filled with excitement, we watch day after day for the coming of spring. Eagerly, we await for the smell of flowers, sunny cool days, and walks in the blooming gardens. A purpose seems to fill the air that gives rest and refreshment to our weary souls. Wintery days have passed....the waiting has ended.
I can't help, but think of My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in moments like this. To me...He is spring. He's always here and yet always around the corner. How I long for His coming. He seems like spring, when the burdens of this world has left me empty and dried. He give me anew strength carry out the tasks, He has for me. Like a flower, He tenderly tend me...preparing me for days ahead such as the harsh, cold winters. Through all troubles, He's there making me stronger through Him. Through all joy, He's there teaching me how to live in Him.
I long to touch Him, see Him, smell Him, and take long walks in His gardens. He reminds me of His love, and holds me so I can stand. Unlike spring, Jesus is in my heard all year around. But there are seasons, (Winter/summer)when it is time for me be tested, and (spring/autum)a time for me to be rested.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Graduation Speech
My dear friends,
I wanted to share my graduation speech with you. Looking back on the speech, I realized how important it was to me. It applied then, and it certainly does apply for the most part to my life now. Please, allow me to share something special. Here it is exaclty how it was written.
Good evening! My name is Christina Damron and I have been given a great privilege of speaking with you. On behalf of all the graduates, I would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Bennett, teachers, families, friends, and special guests who have done much to make this evening possible. Many of you have inspired us, and we are grateful you are here to celebrate this unforgettable occasion with us. Thank you all!
To the graduates of 2008, Congratulations! We have achieved a great deal. Not only have we made it through high school, but we have laid the building blocks of who we are to become. Now, we stand on the threshold of a new horizon in our life story. A chapter is closing, but another is beginning that we enter not as chil dren, but as adults. I believe the years to come will be incredible ones.
For a moment, let us reflect on our theme verse I Timothy 4:12. “Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.” As the next generation, we hold in our hands great power. It does not matter that we are young. If we are humble and willing, God will use us despite our age, difficulties, and our past. To quote my sister, Kate, “Let us do with excellence what we do best and not be afraid to let our voice be heard in following God’s call. It is worth being heard and it is needed. We CAN make a difference.”
I Timothy 4:12 reminds us how to set an example for others. First, how we speak and conduct ourselves reflects who we are and what is inside our hearts. Matthew 12:34 says “…for the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart.” Likewise, Ephesians 4:29 instructs us, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
Furthermore, if we want to make an impact, we must act with maturity. In Wings of Silver, an unknown author expresses maturity as “… to be able to stick to a job until it is finished; to be able to bear an injustice without wanting to get even; to be able to carry money without spending it, and to do one’s duty without being supervised.”
Next, we can set an example through love, faith, and purity. Let us show love by staying faithful, and show faithfulness by remaining pure. Ephesians 3:16-18 encourages us to look to Christ as our source.
“I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your heart through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long, and how high and deep, is the love of Christ.”
Class of 2008, let us remember and live our theme verse, I Timothy 4:12. With this final thought, let us be blessed with a quote from an unknown author “May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you…May you be content knowing that you are a child of God…Let His presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise, and love. It is there for each and every one of us.”
I wanted to share my graduation speech with you. Looking back on the speech, I realized how important it was to me. It applied then, and it certainly does apply for the most part to my life now. Please, allow me to share something special. Here it is exaclty how it was written.
Good evening! My name is Christina Damron and I have been given a great privilege of speaking with you. On behalf of all the graduates, I would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Bennett, teachers, families, friends, and special guests who have done much to make this evening possible. Many of you have inspired us, and we are grateful you are here to celebrate this unforgettable occasion with us. Thank you all!
To the graduates of 2008, Congratulations! We have achieved a great deal. Not only have we made it through high school, but we have laid the building blocks of who we are to become. Now, we stand on the threshold of a new horizon in our life story. A chapter is closing, but another is beginning that we enter not as chil dren, but as adults. I believe the years to come will be incredible ones.
For a moment, let us reflect on our theme verse I Timothy 4:12. “Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.” As the next generation, we hold in our hands great power. It does not matter that we are young. If we are humble and willing, God will use us despite our age, difficulties, and our past. To quote my sister, Kate, “Let us do with excellence what we do best and not be afraid to let our voice be heard in following God’s call. It is worth being heard and it is needed. We CAN make a difference.”
I Timothy 4:12 reminds us how to set an example for others. First, how we speak and conduct ourselves reflects who we are and what is inside our hearts. Matthew 12:34 says “…for the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart.” Likewise, Ephesians 4:29 instructs us, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
Furthermore, if we want to make an impact, we must act with maturity. In Wings of Silver, an unknown author expresses maturity as “… to be able to stick to a job until it is finished; to be able to bear an injustice without wanting to get even; to be able to carry money without spending it, and to do one’s duty without being supervised.”
Next, we can set an example through love, faith, and purity. Let us show love by staying faithful, and show faithfulness by remaining pure. Ephesians 3:16-18 encourages us to look to Christ as our source.
“I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your heart through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long, and how high and deep, is the love of Christ.”
Class of 2008, let us remember and live our theme verse, I Timothy 4:12. With this final thought, let us be blessed with a quote from an unknown author “May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you…May you be content knowing that you are a child of God…Let His presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise, and love. It is there for each and every one of us.”
Friday, February 27, 2009
Psalms 116:3-7
The cords of death entangled me.
the anguish of the grave came upon me;
I was overcome by trouble
and sorrow
Then I called on the name of the LORD
"O Lord, save me!"
The LORD is gracious is gracious and righteous
our God is full of compassion
The LORD protects the
simplehearted
when I was in great need,
He saved me.
Be at rest once more,
O my soul,
for the LORD has been good
to you.
I think the last 3 verses are worth repeating. Just think on the those words! Surely, surely if they are written in the bible, they HAVE to be true! He's not talking about 'others', He's talking to YOU! Believe, and grab hold of these words.
The Lord is gracious and
rightesous;
Our God is full of compassion.
The Lord protects the
simplehearted;
when I was in great need,
He saved me.
Be at REST once mmore, O my souls
for the LORD has been good
to you.
the anguish of the grave came upon me;
I was overcome by trouble
and sorrow
Then I called on the name of the LORD
"O Lord, save me!"
The LORD is gracious is gracious and righteous
our God is full of compassion
The LORD protects the
simplehearted
when I was in great need,
He saved me.
Be at rest once more,
O my soul,
for the LORD has been good
to you.
I think the last 3 verses are worth repeating. Just think on the those words! Surely, surely if they are written in the bible, they HAVE to be true! He's not talking about 'others', He's talking to YOU! Believe, and grab hold of these words.
The Lord is gracious and
rightesous;
Our God is full of compassion.
The Lord protects the
simplehearted;
when I was in great need,
He saved me.
Be at REST once mmore, O my souls
for the LORD has been good
to you.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Wisdom from a dear, wise lady
We learned that we are not defined by our successes or our failures. And in all of that, we learned that God's pursuit of our hearts was relentless...and beautiful. ~ Lesa Reid
Psalms 116:1-2
I love the Lord, for He heard my voice: He heard my cry for mercy. Because He turned His ears to me, I will call on Him as long as I live.
For a moment just ponder those words. Think of what they could mean to you. No matter where you are, who you are, or what you are doing, even if you're in a time of trouble or of rest, He will hear.
For a moment just ponder those words. Think of what they could mean to you. No matter where you are, who you are, or what you are doing, even if you're in a time of trouble or of rest, He will hear.
Monday, February 9, 2009
My Parents, Money, College, Independence, and God
Over these past few months, I have gotten to experience what my parents go through. No...I don't have a child, but I got to lovingly take care of my sick mom. All my life, I have been thankful for what my parents did. However, I now know to some extent how much they bend over backwards for us. Some my age say the cleaning is horrid, shopping by yourself, and cooking for the entire family while balancing your own schoolwork is something that they don't want to go through. Surprisingly enough that was the easiest part. Seeing my Dad home for work for the rest of the day exhausted, listening to my mom's racket of coughing and gasping for breath, that was the worst. I have learned much more of money, college, Independence, and God, which brings me to this: a grateful heart.
My parents have taught me to handle money carefully, and not squander it. I knew life was expensive...but I found out first handed when shopping for food how expensive it could be. Every cent, I learned in depth mattered when concerning the entire bill. Thus I soon learned, it wasn't the actual how much it cost, as how much it cost PER ounce for food. I dreaded to think if food was expensive how all the other things like heating, water, gas, and all the other things that make my life comfortable cost.
During the second week of the fourth week, I started my first day of college. I went nervous and excited and over those emotions, concerned about my mom. How I managed to think in my class of Photography when I had a sick mom at home, I can't explain; except for the fact that God directed my attention.
I am independence and believe have grown even more independence. Being 18, and considered an "adult" which is sometimes bull, is no help, although I love being 18. With my independence nature, I'm still fighting the urge to strike out on my own, and still more often than not tempted to ignore what my parents say. (You would think I have learned to take my parents words into consideration). However, I hope that I will never lose sight that my parents are much smarter, wiser, and know much more of the world than I know. Yes, there are times when I need to discover for myself, but if I ever get stuck I know without a shadow of doubt that my parents will be here for me and even more importantly my God.
Through all everything, I had grace that God gave me to go through it all. He was the one that gave me strength when I was beyond exhausted. I wondered how on earth my mom manage to keep house, take care of two kids, have a job, and make sure that if nothing else her kids know who God is and taught them as best as she knew how to have a personal relationship with Him. My mom is incredible. I have always been grateful, but now I'm am even more grateful. A new perceptive was brought to me during those four weeks of practically being on my own.
My God deserves full credit. Without Him, I can't even last a second. He's that one that held me up, protected me, gave me counsel, and comforted me when there was no one else to help me. I am grateful to Him. The month has been a hard one, but through it all there has been an abundant of grace. God's grace.
My parents have taught me to handle money carefully, and not squander it. I knew life was expensive...but I found out first handed when shopping for food how expensive it could be. Every cent, I learned in depth mattered when concerning the entire bill. Thus I soon learned, it wasn't the actual how much it cost, as how much it cost PER ounce for food. I dreaded to think if food was expensive how all the other things like heating, water, gas, and all the other things that make my life comfortable cost.
During the second week of the fourth week, I started my first day of college. I went nervous and excited and over those emotions, concerned about my mom. How I managed to think in my class of Photography when I had a sick mom at home, I can't explain; except for the fact that God directed my attention.
I am independence and believe have grown even more independence. Being 18, and considered an "adult" which is sometimes bull, is no help, although I love being 18. With my independence nature, I'm still fighting the urge to strike out on my own, and still more often than not tempted to ignore what my parents say. (You would think I have learned to take my parents words into consideration). However, I hope that I will never lose sight that my parents are much smarter, wiser, and know much more of the world than I know. Yes, there are times when I need to discover for myself, but if I ever get stuck I know without a shadow of doubt that my parents will be here for me and even more importantly my God.
Through all everything, I had grace that God gave me to go through it all. He was the one that gave me strength when I was beyond exhausted. I wondered how on earth my mom manage to keep house, take care of two kids, have a job, and make sure that if nothing else her kids know who God is and taught them as best as she knew how to have a personal relationship with Him. My mom is incredible. I have always been grateful, but now I'm am even more grateful. A new perceptive was brought to me during those four weeks of practically being on my own.
My God deserves full credit. Without Him, I can't even last a second. He's that one that held me up, protected me, gave me counsel, and comforted me when there was no one else to help me. I am grateful to Him. The month has been a hard one, but through it all there has been an abundant of grace. God's grace.
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