We Become What We Feed Ourselves

Being here at my children’s home while they are away to care for their two furry critters, sure gives me plenty of content for my blogs. You see, my girl cherishes the things and the people that helped get her here to this time and place. Everywhere you look around here, she has vignettes of treasured memories.

Case in point is this vignette of the peace sign figurine. If you’ve ever seen one of Staci's videos, you’ll see her use that sign at the end. Under the figurine are books written by three of her favorite authors and speakers who impacted her life. "Purpose Driven Life” by Rick Warren is one of my favorites, too. We believe we are here on Planet Earth at this time and this place, intentionally, by God for purposes beyond coincidence. We believe that before we were born, God wanted us to discover the life He created for us to live – here on earth and forever in eternity. I love what St. Paul says in Ephesians 1:11 “Because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for He chose us in advance, and He makes everything work out according to His plan.” I am forever grateful to know we are products of His divine purpose for our lives.

Next in the stack is “The 360-degree Leader” by another of her favorite authors, John Maxwell. Staci would tell you that her business acumen has come from her thirst for knowledge by reading and devouring successful leaders’ advice and training. She has been driven to be a devoted Christ-follower and leader in the marketplace and books like this have helped her become the leader worth following in her faith, her business, in relationships and her personal life.

And, the book at the bottom which represents the foundation (besides the Bible) of her positive, optimistic, can-do attitude, is "Over the Top". That is just one of the many other books she consumed by her mentor and beloved father-figure while travelling with him for twelve years, Zig Ziglar. Before we were introduced to Zig, we were his followers, so much so that we became little Zigs. His life philosophies, motivational speaking, his Christian witness and his personal “walk” made him our mentor. We raised our kids on those principles and I attribute much of their success to what we spoke into them and lived before them. My husband taught those principles in his own "Born to Win" seminars in churches and organizations across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Belize. We desired that others achieve what we knew were life-changing principles. We wanted to pay-it-forward and make the difference in people’s lives, too. “You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want.” — Zig Ziglar

Even in something as simple as dog-sitting, we can find reasons to be grateful for who or what made us the best we can be. It’s reminded me to be thankful for the blessings of ups and downs that showed us how to navigate the waters and come safely to the other side. I’ll bet you’ve had wisdom and knowledge poured into your life that helped you navigate, too. Maybe you can think about them right now and thank God for His plan and purposes that caused you to be the amazing person that you are today!

Take Heart, Brothers & Sisters, All is Well

How do I know all is well? It is a deep, inner knowing that God has got this. God has got us. I'm back at home and this sunrise on Tuesday assured me "all is well". I could almost hear these words audibly "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful." (John 14:27) All is well!

It’s a brand new day with potential and possibilities! It’s a brand new day to posture ourselves with a can-do-anything, all-is-well mindset. We can purposely leave the remains of yesterday behind with an optimistic "I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me" (Phil 4:13) attitude for this new day. When we slip on our houseshoes or athletic shoes or even go barefoot and step out on our back porch, our patio or our sidewalk, we can inhale this new day with faith and determination. If we listen closely, we'll hear those words again that give us new hope for this brand new day. "All is well."

In real time, we may feel like the weight of the world is on our shoulders, but take heart -- all is well. If God be OUR Almighty God, our supreme authority and our all-knowing, all loving, omnicient One, then we must make the decision to believe it and trust Him.

We are in good company. The Bible goes to great lengths to show us that all the people on its pages were ordinary, average "Joes". Yes, let's look at two Joes: 1) Joseph, the youngest of ornery, jealous brothers and the beloved son of his father, Jacob. This "Joe" took heart. In spite of a pit and a prison, he succeeded to a palace when he became the Governor of the land and ultimately took care of his entire family. 2) Another "Joe" -- Joseph, the adopted father of Jesus who could have divorced his pregnant fiancee, but instead, took heart, and stayed to love and care for Mary and Jesus. So many other characters in the Bible who trusted even though they were drenched in fear and hopelessness.

Many others in the Bible took heart and conquered because God filled them up with His Holy Spirit and breathed life into their dreams and their plans, and God, through ordinary people who did ordinary things, made miracles happen that changed the world for good. And, WE are the Bible people of today in these times and the same Holy Spirit breathes life into our dreams and our hopes and our plans so that we too will accomplish great things..

Take heart, brothers and sisters! All is well. Breathe deeply. Do your part. Fight the good fight. Offer grace. Love. Work for justice. Move with mercy. Be kind. Keep your focus. Keep moving forward. Keep looking up. Keep offering up every little thing in your ordinary life to the God of good things and miracles and hope.

Being a Go-Get-'Em Cheerleader

I know my children and grands would tell you I’m a pretty good cheerleader. I purpose to be their #1 Fan and supporter. It’s a built-in power-pack that comes with the full-package deal we parents and grandparents come equipped with. God placed it in all of us. Not for just our own family, but all who are in our sphere of influence.

I’ve cheered for my kids on at sports events, talent contests and sales competitions. I’ve cheered for them in their academics and in their faith. I’ve cheered them through decision-making times and when life gave them some pretty rough seasons. I know that my encouragement has helped them push through their pain, anxiety, and determination to finish strong.

That's a beautiful picture of what we can do for our children as they embark on the great race of life. I know that’s why I’m here in this season of my life as an encourager aka cheerleader. I want my voice in print and in real shouts of praise to be echoing in my family, and in yours. I want to be a pumping courage and confidence into my children's hearts and yours. I know that an encouraging word, offered at the right moment, may make the difference between my children and you finishing well or collapsing along the way.

Sincerely, whether we are speaking affirming and encouraging words to our children and grands or speaking optimistic and uplifting words to everyone around us, we can be assured that what we are saying has the potential to change the course of someone's day, even their life.

I’m so grateful that we were THAT optimistic, faith-building, “go-get-‘em” kind-of-parents. It served us well and it served our family well because today I see my children cheering and encouraging their children I smile from ear-to-ear when I see my grands hearing and heeding their parents' advice and now embarking on their careers, their sports and their dreams.

We all should be those kind-of-cheerleaders who shout and cheer with phrases like: “You're gonna' make it!” “You can do it!” “I believe in you!” “You are special!” “You have what it takes!” “You're perfect just the way you are.”

My children are all grown up now, but I still purpose daily to speak or type/write a positive word to my four adult children. I want to continue to be a spark that ignites a great passion in their lives. I’m a cheerleading mom and grandmom and I want to "prophesy" success and blessings as they become the best people they can be!

And hey! I want to also speak good things to you and yours, my friends. That’s what this daily blog is all about. I want my light to shine into all those heart crevices to help you see what God sees in you. You are God's beloved child and you are worthy of being praised, encouraged and supported as you run your race. Live with knowing that God is with you, cheering you on to your Finish Line. Run strong. Finish strong. And, pass it along!

Getting Rid of a Glass Half Empty Attitude

I raised a couple of teenagers and have helped take care of those grown-up teenagers’.teenagers. I know well that they go through all spectrums of emotions at any given time. One day they’re optimistic and in a good mood. The next day they can have sour attitudes that sour up a room like a big old dill pickle. We all know those mood swings because we were once teenagers. I remember me and I’ll admit, I regret those times when I was less than grateful. Oh, how precious was my mother as she navigated me, single-handedly, through those rough waters of boyfriend troubles and school and test troubles – all that seemed so insurmountable – but they all came and passed – literally. I married the boyfriend and successfully passed the tests and graduated. My half empty perspective then, has turned into a half full glass today.

It's almost Thanksgiving Day and I’m already forming my gratitude list in my head. In fact, yesterday morning I sent my usual morning text to my four – my two and their spouses. I said something like this to them: “Happy Thanksgiving week, my loves. I’m so looking forward to our special times together this week. Praying already that God makes this a year to remember in gratitude for His goodness and mercy that has kept us strong, healthy, lots of good food on our tables, being able to be God’s hand extended to so many around us, protection in the midst of storms and accidents, laughter in the midst of tough times, and security and peace in abundance. We are so so blessed. I love you so much!”

It’s so easy to a HALF EMPTY if we allow the negative to overtake our thoughts. You know – like:
I’m thankful for Jesus, but I can’t live up to his standards.
I'm thankful for my husband, but marriage is so much work.
I am thankful for my kids, but they never listen.
I am thankful for my home, but everything is falling apart.
I am thankful for my job, but it's a dead-end job.

You get the picture. I want the half full glass of gratitude that doesn’t add BUT to my gratitude. I want the FULL glass of gratitude list of things that inspire thanksgiving in my heart – not a list that focuses on present difficulties and is void of hope in the good things to come.

We can be thankful, even in hardship, because our future is based on God’s love, not on our perfection or our performance. Yes, we may experience temporary hardships, but they do not alter our eternal absolutes. Our hope is in Christ alone. “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer” (Romans 12:12).

Here’s the way to turn a glass half empty attitude into a full one!
I’m thankful for Jesus, who covers me with His righteousness.
I am thankful for my husband and our blessed marriage.
I am thankful for my kids who are full of life and joy.
I am thankful for my comfortable home that is enough.
I am thankful for a job that I can grow in and be my best.

This glass half full list takes a little discipline. It requires a shift in thinking from temporary comfort to eternal security. It means releasing despair and embracing hope. Hope can inspire gratitude for what is and what will be.

I leave you with this prayer for a Thanksgiving full of hope:
“May the God of hope fill you (a glass FULL) with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13).

Living Life in a Glass House

Being a blogger is a joy for me. I expose myself as though I were living in a glass house. It's on purpose. Being open to sharing my mistakes, do-overs, and wins is to give you hope and if you can learn from me, maybe you'll be spared from having to go around the same mountains that I did. My point is to share faith and how to stay optimistic in such a negative world.

I want my passion for God to get stronger and my light to burn brighter, and a sweet way of doing that is to refresh and recharge at a daily retreat (a place of refuge) with our CEO Who has an “open door” policy. He is never too busy for us to come into His presence. It's an intimate, altogether personal time with Him. I assure you that intimate place of relationship -- removes doubt, worry, concern, and fear consciousness and replaces it with "Savior" consciousness.

Living in a glass house opens us up to vulnerability, because we all know there are times when the journey gets rocky and uncomfortable. It’s okay…..because the rocks make us appreciate the flat terrain more; the uphill climbs make us appreciate the downhill sprints. The times of despair cause us to lean into God’s love even more. I want my glass house to be a beacon of light for those who can follow in my footsteps as I follow my Lord’s footsteps. You can be assured, wherever this walk takes me today – you’ll hear about it tomorrow because it always comes with a lesson learned and a lesson to share. You’ll know all about it, because “living in a glass house” is describing my relationship with Christ. He comforts me when I cry. He directs me, teaches me, reproves me, guides me and loves me.

Here's the thing -- God loves me AND you. He understands our desires, motives, and thoughts. Nothing about you and me escapes His notice. And, for sure, I don’t really want to live in a literal glass house. But, there’s one thing for sure, no matter where we live, we’re being watched daily by God Who doesn’t require glass walls to know everything about us. The Bible tells us that “there is no creature hidden from His sight, but ALL THINGS are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account” (Hebrews 4:13). He knows ALL things -- not just the things in the open, or the things said out loud> He knows all things -- all the way down to the thoughts and intents of our hearts. When it comes to God, we all live in glass houses.

So how should we feel about the God of the universe having access to any and everything about us? How should we feel about Him having complete knowledge of every thought we’ve ever had, every emotion we’ve ever felt and every decision we’ve ever made? It’s simple — we should feel relieved.

If You Don’t Use It – You’ll Lose It!

My precious mom said to her doctor “Doc, some mornings I just don’t want to get out of bed!” His reply? “The day you decide to do that, count on being bedridden very soon. In essence, he was saying “If you don’t use it – you’ll lose it!” These days – our minds are on overload, so much so, – the opposite is true: If we overuse it – we’ll lose it!

My sis-in-law was coming over to see me. I gave her the easy directions. “Turn into the community at the gate and just turn right at the first street and it’s the first home on the right.” I watched out for her. She turned right but went to the first house on the left. I overheard her talking to her husband on her cell phone: “I can’t do two things at the same time – drive and follow directions.” I get it. We need to be fine-tuned!.

I’ve been reading up on “powering up” our brains and I've found out some things that can boggle our brains – one of which is all the multi-tasking that we do. While on our phones, we’ll be driving, eating, telling our kids to stop arguing, remembering another item for the grocery list, etc. Bottom line – being focused not only saves our brain’s power (over-using it), but it also saves us from being distracted and having an accident. I read that a recent neuroscience research proved the human brain is unable to consciously pay full attention to two tasks at the same time (thus my sweet sis-in-law's dilemma).. Sure, we can do simple tasks like walking and talking at the same time – maybe even chewing gum along with it, but when it comes to true multi-tasking, our brain shouldn’t do it.
’t do it. Yikes! Think about all that multi-tasking we’re doing while driving – talking on our phones, eating, etc.

Helping us to not overuse our brain is “powering it down” when we get the sleep we need. A sleep-deprived brain works harder, but accomplishes less. It becomes more difficult to concentrate, speak clearly, and make decisions. I’m making sure I get as many zzzz’s as I can to keep my brain powered up!

And, “powering up” our brain is powering up our attitudes that cultivate good habits like, enjoying life, laughing often, developing an optimistic outlook and being sure to free our minds of stress and anxiety. And above all – STOP saying, even in a “just joking” way “I’m losing my mind!” Instead, we should daily “power up” our brains by keeping our minds on God’s Word – even memorizing scriptures that help guarantee sound and healthy minds! Let’s speak these kinds of affirmations from God’s Word:

~ I have the mind of Christ! (1 Corinthians 2:16)
~ My mind is renewed daily! (Romans 12:2)
~ His mind is in me! (Philippians 2:5)
~ My mind is in perfect peace because it stays on God. (Isaiah 26:3)
~ I love the Lord my God with all my heart, soul and MIND. (Matthew 22:37)
~ Daily, I think on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy. Philippians 4:8

I’m in for the long haul so rather than my mind being used “mindlessly”, I’m “powering up” to be sure I live up to the best version of me that I can be! How about you?

“I refuse to give in to my fears. For God did not give me a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a SOUND mind!”
2 Timothy 1:7

Shhh! Please Don’t Say That!

I came out of the fitness center yesterday and saw a couple loading up their air mattresses and other swimming gear. They had been enjoying a Sunday afternoon of swimming and playing water volleyball. I commented: “Looks like you had fun in the sun" and the woman replied “Yes! It was such a beautiful day!” And to her comment, I said, “Well, enjoy it while it lasts because before long it will be snowing!” She returned: “Oh, please don’t say that!” And then I thought….for goodness sake, where did that come from? I just brought in a negative image into their otherwise beautiful day. That's just not like me!

I’m the one that is usually wanting to put my finger to people's lips and say "Shhh -- don't say that!" Especially when I hear them say things like “I’m so stupid", "I can just look at a cookie, and I gain weight", "I get a cold this time every year", "I could never win at that", "I’ll never be able to afford that", "I’m too old to do that", etc. And, you know what…..they will continue to get what they are saying and thinking. “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit" (1 Peter 3:10).

I am typically an optimistic thinker and speaker. I wasn’t born that way, but through conscious effort and repetition, it's now my mode of operation….usually, except for that “snow” remark yesterday. Can I blame it on a "senior moment"? In all seriousness, I anticipate happiness, good health and success, and I sincerely believe that I can overcome any obstacle and difficulty with a "can-do" attitude.

Optimistic and positive people really do experience happy feelings; their eyes are bright, they're almost always smiling, they have more energy and their whole being broadcasts good will, happiness and success. Even their health is affected in a positive way, and they walk tall, their voices are more powerful and their body language shows the way they feel.

Positive thinking and speaking is contagious, but so is negative thinking and speaking. We really can become optimistic and control and change our thoughts and what comes out of our mouths.. It’s like changing the channel on a TV – we see a program we don’t want to watch, so we change the channel. In the same way, when a negative thought comes to us, rather than continuing to think that negative thought….change the channel to something good and positive.

If we make a conscious effort to speaking positive, writing positive, reading positive, watching positive and take actions that make us feel positive, eventually, it will be second nature for us to shift any negative focus to positive. If we persevere, we will transform the way our mind thinks, as well as the beautiful things that will start coming our way. So, let’s start thinking before we speak. Those positive thoughts might produce the harvest we’ve been believing for!” Right Thinking. Right Words. Blessed Life!

Proverbs 18:4 “A person's words can be life-giving water; words of true wisdom are as refreshing as a bubbling brook.”

Another Year of Potential and Possibilities

What a breath of fresh air it has been to see such optimism on my FB feed lately. Of course it has to do with all these adorable children heading off to another year of school. Wide-eyed wonder and excitement about what this new year will hold: new friends, new adventures, more challenges that open their minds to possibilities, understanding and building those little minds. They aren’t perplexed at all about what’s going on in politics.

And I especially appreciate how optimistic you parents are with your bold confessions of faith for your kiddos. Maybe the first couple of days were a tackle with getting in a routine again, but for the most part, I’m hearing a sigh of relief that another year is underway. I loved one mom’s prayer: “My prayer tonight as G___ gets ready to take those steps into Middle School and D___ starts a new school year with an unexpected twist. Of all the dreams I have for them, Christ follower is at the top. They've got this and He's got them.♥️”

That’s the attitude we should all have for our children and grandchildren. Of all the knowledge they acquire, all the common sense experiences that they will learn from -- the single most important achievement is to be devoted followers of Christ in their friendships, in the decisions they make and their problem solving with God’s wisdom leading the way.

Luke 2:52 mentions four areas Jesus grew in as a young boy: “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and with people.” Our Lord grew wiser and He physically grew. His relationship with His Heavenly Father continuously strengthened. Jesus even gained favor with people who saw Him day to day. I love the simple sentence that precedes this: “His mother kept all these things in her heart.” We never see Mary worried and anxious. She pondered about her son, but she didn’t allow her heart to become rattled.

May we all strive to be like Mary, turning our anxious thoughts into treasured prayers, kept safe and held fast by our loving Father — the one who knows our hearts and loves our children even more than we do. When a concern pops up in our mind, we carry that concern to God. When we start to fear for our child’s future, we petition the One who knows what the future holds -- the One Who knows everything about everything.

Heavenly Father, I pray for all these precious children that are starting a new school year. Protect them, encourage them and fill them with strong minds to learn and grow. Help them to be a great friend and to have great friends. I pray the moms and dads turn their concerns and worries into prayers, knowing You are in control. Please help them to treasure each moment with their children as they grow in wisdom and stature and favor with others and You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Philippians 4:6-7, “Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving; let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

Things Are Looking Up With Optimism and Hope

We are known as an optimistic family. We reinforced optimism in our children with “You are champions. You can do anything if you set your heart and mind to it. With God all things are possible." We purposely speak “God is good -- all the time” regardless of sunshine or rain, joy or sorrow, win or defeat.

Now, I have a greater, healthier sense of respect for the concept of hope even more than optimism. To be optimistic about our lives will serve us well, mentally and physically. But when we’re holding onto the last strand of the rope in our circumstances and when we need a powerful shot of an energy drink to keep us holding a little longer, there is no substitute for hope. So here, let me offer you an energy drink from the Springs of Living Water found in God’s Word: “We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them” (Romans 8:28).

Looking back at my own life -- every defeat, every pain, every disappointment, resulted in eventual good. Now I know God is actively working to bring good out of whatever happens in our lives. So we grab hold of hope and that truth again: “We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them” (Romans 8:28). That scripture isn’t saying that every event in our life will be good. But it does say that when we put our whole life together, every piece of it works together for good. It’s like making a cake. We may not like the taste of each ingredient -- but when it’s all put together, we can’t keep our hands off of it. God wants to bake an amazingly tasty cake with our lives, and He wants to use even the distasteful and bitter ingredients to do it.

God also doesn’t say that everything works together like we want it to or every story will have a happy ending. The reality is not every business decision will make us a million dollars. Not every couple that gets married will live happily ever after. Not every child will become a star athlete. Instead, the verse reminds us that we can have absolute confidence that our Master Chef and Designer causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God. (BTW, this promise is for “those who love God,” not for those who don't.)

Hope is the absolute confidence that every part of our lives will ultimately make sense. From our vantage point, life looks like a mess at times. But God’s view is the finished cake -- so tasty, so good. We can’t even imagine the good that God has in store for our future. Our future is in God’s hands — and there’s no better place for it to be.

Weathering the Storm

We’re stoked about the Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon being given by the downtown Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital which includes our North location volunteers. It’s going to be a great way to spend a Saturday with some other volunteers going with me. We are decked out in our 50s and 60s outfits because, after all, a prize is going to the best dressed.

First thing, I see an email from Sally: “It looks like the weather is going to be too bad for us to go to the luncheon.” My optimistic, no-worries, "What’s-a-little-storm-anyway?" reply was: “I don't mind taking my car and driving in the rain (I'm used to it. I'm often on the road to Austin or Tulsa in the rain). And when we get there, we'll be parking in the garage. I'll be happy to pick you girls up and we go for it! Let's be adventurous and live with no regrets!” So the girls were onboard for “dragging Main”, until heading out, opening my garage door and a gust of tornadic winds and rains blew back at me. My granddaughter texted me “Tornado!” I went back in and we canceled our outing.

I remembered this photo of a bird weathering the storm and the words: “Sometimes, you just have to bow your head. Say a prayer, weather the storm and trust that this too shall pass.” Many of us handle the challenges in our lives like that bird. We stand in the rain soaking wet with a smile on our faces in our cute pair of galoshes and say, “I’m dry, really, I’m dry.” I know what that’s like because I’m a “STORM-move-out-of-the-way" kind of girl. I can grin and bear it when the weather channel maps are covered with red and sending warnings to take shelter immediately. There were terrifying tornadoes that took the roof off our barn, our parents lost their home in a tornado, ice storms caused a loss of electricity for days, snow storms kept us homebound for days, hail storms devastated our home's roof, and, now, wind and rain storms kept us from a great luncheon. But, I could grin and bear it through most of them!

But, there were times when the storms of life prevailed in my life that brought hurt, disappointment, fear, concern, and pain, unlike those literal storms. Those storms were slow in passing. Those torrential storms upheaved my comfort and security. Those storms shook me physically, mentally and spiritually. I had to admit that my optimistic, no-worries, "What’s-a-little-storm-anyway?" reply didn't work those times.

But, in the midst of some of my darkest hours, LOVE showed up in the form of family and friends who encouraged me with comforting words, but most comforting that I heard within my heart was God's whisper, “I’m here with you.” I also realized I wasn’t the only one who was soaking wet from the storms. Others began to open up to me. It seemed I wasn’t the only one with a storm in her life. Many of us were drenched from the rain and I found out we all had some type of rain in our lives. We were great, big, beautiful soggy messes, and God loved us all.

Maybe you’re muttering under your breath, “I’m dry, really, I’m dry” but your soaking wet from the storms in your life. It's okay to admit it. When we open our eyes to the Peace-Maker and Storm-Chaser walking on the water to us, we’ll finally be free to discover that LOVE is waiting for us right in the center of our storms. Along with this brave little bird, we remind ourselves "to bow our heads, say a prayer, weather the storm and trust that this too shall pass.” I assure you, I’m proof positive that we can weather any storm when we know God is with us and we are safe, sheltered in His loving and sovereign arms. Forecast for tomorrow? Blue skies, sun shining, calm winds.

💥💥People Are Like Cheetos💥💥

I saw this graphic, and whoa-la, my inspiration for today’s post! That’s how I roll – a billboard, words of a speaker or friend, a personal predicament or blessing, a dream, another friend’s post, a fleeting thought – all of which are who or what gives me the inspiration for my daily blog. Most of all, I recognize God’s nudge each time. This graphic truly inspired me because I don’t want to allow the negativity of others, which is plentiful in our world today, to “rub off on me”. We sure don’t want cranky, mean-spirited and negative voices to influence our attitude and our spirits, especially when our world needs more bright lights and believers who are bound and determined to be GOOD NEWS broadcasters.

It’s taken a life of experiences for me to conclude that joy, peace, hope, and love talk is a much better choice than anger, fear, hopelessness, and hatred. I desire, more than anything, to be a positive influence on others – so much so that I am overly optimistic – maybe even to the point of being annoying to those who prefer the cloudy day ☁️ versus a day bursting with sunshine 🌞 birds singing 🐦 and flowers blooming 🌺. But, I want to rub off on them. I know for certain I want to hang out with those who brighten my day and fill me with courage because I see how they are conquering life’s stuff and they assure me that I can too! I want them to rub off on me.

Don’t get me wrong. I do spend time with those who aren’t “sunshine on a cloudy day”, but I know those are the ones who I can be the sunshine 🌞 they need. It's been said that one bad apple 🍎 can spoil the whole bunch, but I also like to think that one good apple 🍎 can brighten and heal the whole bunch.

We can be difference makers and we can BE THE CHANGE others need. Rather than allowing those down-and-outers to steal our time and energy or even complaining about them, we can choose to BE THE CHANGE. We can strike up a conversation about something pleasant. Rather than giving needless thought to their attitude, we can choose to BE THE CHANGE and think about the beautiful things in our life. We can take back the day and turn it into a day of gratitude, joy, and peace. We can make a conscious effort to be the change!

If we become the company we keep, then the company I want to keep is hanging out more with God. The more time we spend with Him, the more we become like Him. His nature starts to manifest, not only inside of us but on the outside as well. We’ll start to act like Him. God will rub off on us and, hopefully, we’ll rub off on others!

“Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.” Proverbs 13:20

Being an Influencer

Okay....this is longer than my usual "long", but it describes major influencers in my life. When I come to Tulsa, I squeeze in as much as possible because there are so many precious friends and family here. Yesterday was no exception. First was attending mass at my home parish and sitting beside my Tulsa “family” who mean the world to me. My godson brought us all together when he was a very sick newborn. My husband and I fell in love with this family long before his birth, but it was his little precious and vulnerable life that cemented us all together. Isn’t it amazing how what seems to be the worst of times, brings out the best in people and the best of times? Owen is 13 now so it’s been 13 years of watching God perform miracle after miracle in his life. Since my husband passed away, Owen has taken his place beside me in church and he still holds my hand and wraps his arms around me with abandon. Be still my heart! I was thrilled to have lunch with them and seeing the two youngest in their costumes for Trunk or Treat that followed. This family has been amazing influencers in my life.

After church and before lunch, I made a couple of quick visits to see two amazing “older” women. My first visit was to see Margaret, the mother of my brother-in-law, She lives in a skilled nursing facility, If you need a pick-me-up, go see her. I walked in her room and she was beaming from ear-to-ear and excited to tell me “I’m 96 years old now! Just look at these paintings on my walls. I painted them all!” Margaret is a dear, optimistic, light-hearted friend that as long as I’ve known her, her outgoing, and warm personality made me feel loved. She influenced me.

Then I headed over to spend time with my mother-in-law. I took her dinner the night before and we caught up then, but yesterday I savored our time together once again. She's gone through a lot physically, but now that she lives with Karen, my husband’s sister, she's become stronger and filled with so much vitality. She boasted “I’ve gained five pounds!” And that says a lot! I can’t begin to tell you how much she has influenced my life -- the most of which are her prayers for us. I asked her “What are you going to do today?” She quickly responded, “I’ve got lots of calls to make!” She has a list of people she calls to encourage. She is sure not done yet. She’ll be 96 on Wednesday.

Lastly, I made my way to another dear friend and mentor. Oh, how I love this precious saint, Sister Marie Pierre. After 50+ years of ministry, she retired and lives in a small space at St. Joseph's Monastery but it is everything she hoped for in this season of her life. A few months ago she had a pretty bad fall and had to have hip surgery. I was shocked to see that she was waiting at the door with her walker for me when I arrived. She wasn’t setting any records, but she was up and moving. Another nun waited with her and she asked: “Are you a teacher?” I replied, “Yes, I am, but I’m also one of Sister Pierre’s children.” We made each other cry as we shared sweet memories, and about our future....getting to graduate to heaven. We talked about how our loved ones and the saints and Jesus are cheering us on to the finish line. I could tell she is longing for the day when she'll go home, but in the meantime, sitting at her feet, feeling God's presence and His peace all around her, is the place to be. God continues to use her to touch our lives. She has MANY children -- of course, not biologically, but she sure had a hand in raising many of us in the ways we should go.

Why do I go into so much detail about my life and share it on social media? One, it will be forever an archive to remind me of those people who passed my way. I’m quite sure they were all a part of God’s Master Plan for my life. Placing value on those people and acknowledging them as precious and valuable makes them matter in the grand scheme of God’s almighty handiwork. I love to give credit where credit is due. Each teacher, mentor, encourager, family member, friend, and even casual acquaintance are strategic in God’s wisdom to co-partner with Him. I am so grateful for those who helped “make” me.

The point is to embrace God’s plan AND people that come into our lives – there’s a reason for them all. I’m so thankful that mine has made me purposeful in my mission and determination to finish strong. Perhaps you’re thinking of your own life and those who have contributed to who you are today. Maybe phone them or pay them a visit to let them know how thankful you are for them. Why do I go into so much detail about my life and share it on social media? One, it will be archived to remind me of those people who partnered with God to fulfill His Master Plan in my life. Acknowledging them is giving credit where credit is due. Each teacher, mentor, encourager, family member, friend, and even casual acquaintance are strategically placed in our lives by God. I am so grateful for those who helped “make” me.

The point is to embrace God’s plan AND people that come into our lives. There is a reason for them all. I’m so thankful that mine has made me purposeful in my mission and determination to finish strong. Perhaps you’re thinking of your own life and those who have contributed to who you are today. Maybe phone them or pay them a visit to let them know how thankful you are for them.

We are the Light of the World

It is so refreshing to be in the presence of positive, optimistic and encouraging women. Many of my dear “sisters” from our 2017 Fall ACTS Retreat met on Friday for our one-year reunion. Just being around those precious women not only on Friday but throughout the year, energizes me. Their spirit of encouragement is contagious. I can't be down in their presence because they are such bright lights. Their “glow” rubs off on everyone they touch. They have their own stories of tough times, but they have found the “Light of Christ” that has turned their darkness to light. And, when there is someone who is facing a challenge of some sort, they are quick to offer their love, care, support, and prayer.

Why is that? What do these women have that others don’t? It has a lot to do with how rich they are in their faith, love, and commitment to God, embracing His character and striving to follow His lead -- in word and deed. We exposed “our light” Friday night, not only with our light sticks, but we went to one of our ACTS sister’s home to bring light and love to her daughter who is battling leukemia. This mama and her daughter are lights in their own right as they daily share about their relentless faith on social media in the midst of challenging times. We pray for a miracle for this precious young woman, while in practical and tangible ways, these wonderful ACTS women have served this family. On Friday night, we reminded them of God’s light in the midst of the darkness. We sang our “retreat” song, Kari Jobe’s “We Are the Light of the World” to Morgan and we saw her sweet face “light up” with God’s light.

We have ALL been called to be "Light" bearers. If our lights are shining out from within, we can be THE LIGHTS that brighten our world. On the other hand, if our lights are dim, even out, not only will we not brighten the corners where we are, but we may very well be the circuit breaker switch that darkens the whole room AND house. How does that happen? When we go the way of those who are bitter, angry, cynical, fearful, and anxious, then darkness enters our lives. We have a choice -- to stay there or turn on the light because when light stands next to darkness, LIGHT will always win.

Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'” John 8:12. And, here's the real kicker.....Jesus said to us "YOU are the light of the world" Matthew 5:14. WOW!! How's that for a standard to live up to? It sure puts the onus on us to check out our wattage and our light output, doesn't it?

If you're reading this and think "She's sure not talking about me!" Then, I urge you to get connected to the “Light Source”, the Lord Jesus Christ AND get connected to other “light” bearers so that you become THAT "bright light" to those around you. They need YOUR light to shine brightly! Before long, you’ll hear others say to you “You light up my life!”

Determined to be TWEAKABLE!

Tweakable: making fine adjustments, alterations, change, modification, adaptable

I know it's hard to believe, but I was a shy, timid introvert in my youth years. I avoided crowds, parties, and situations that created the MUST to interact with people. So, obviously, I was not voted to be "Most Popular". And, I know it's even harder to believe that, in some respects, I am still not, by my nature, outgoing. I literally have to force myself to walk up to people and create conversation. But, who wants to be THAT girl? I didn't, so I became TWEAKABLE. I realized, long ago, that if I remained being an introvert, I would never have friends. "If you want friends, you must show yourself friendly." Proverbs 18:24

In one of the devotional emails that I received from one of my favorite authors, Max Lucado, he said : "Here's some good news. You aren't stuck with today's personality. You aren't condemned to "grumpydom". You are tweak-able! So what if you were born a bigot? You don't have to die one. Where did we get the idea we can't change? Where do statements come from such as "It's just my nature to worry," or...."I'll always be pessimistic. I'm just that way." Or, "I have a bad temper. I can't help the way I react." Who says? Would we say, "It's just my nature to have a broken leg. I can't do anything about it." Of course not. If our body malfunctions, we seek help. Shouldn't we do the same with our hearts? Can't we seek aid for our sour attitudes? Of course we can. Jesus can change our hearts! He wants us to have a heart like His!" He wants to tweak us!

And, I add to Max's words, if I desire to be that outgoing, optimistic, cheerful personality that others want to hang with, then, I must move out of my comfort zone, and be the gal that I want to hang with. When I'm that gal -- others will be drawn to me, and I will be drawn to those who need me and I need them.

And speaking of tweak-able, I'm so tweak-able that today, after spending two days in Tulsa, visiting dear friends and family, I'm taking a quick drive over to Oklahoma City to hang out with my Austin family. My son, Ryan Wuerch, will be running his 50th marathon on Sunday at the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon. This "tweakable" gal ran that OKC marathon as my first half-marathon seven years ago. I was tweakable enough to go from jaunts around the neighborhood and on my treadmill to all out gusto running my first half marathon (13.1 miles). That feat and all the other feats I've managed to accomplish would have never been possible if I had stayed in a mindset "I'll never change!" Change is possible -- and when we are willing to change -- the doors to adventure open wide!

Is There a Rainbow Yet?

We’ve all been watching with concern as Hurricane Harvey and its flood waters ravage the countless communities and cities in Texas, and now Louisiana. I haven’t been able to blog about “raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens, blue satin sashes, and warm woolen mittens” when our precious brothers and sisters (we're all God's children) have been suffering so much. I pray that we all continue praying faithfully for those impacted and for those who are bravely serving.

Yesterday I saw heart wrenching stories of nursing homes being evacuated, apartments with people being trapped inside but being rescued, and people holding onto trees in the wake of rushing waters being rescued, because there are heroes who are risking their own health and well-being to do so. A pregnant woman in labor was helped to an emergency vehicle by a human chain getting her across the waters. So many people with such tremendous losses are experiencing hope because of “Good Samaritans” who just couldn’t stand by or walk by or ride their boat by those in such need.

This picture of an older couple being rescued on jet skis drew me in yesterday, especially when I saw their stately home (obvious from the beautiful furniture inside – the grandfather clock being almost completely covered) with waters. The man, J.C., said they knew they had to evacuate. He said “It may sound funny but I called Chick-Fil-A and ordered two grilled chicken burritos with extra eggs AND a boat. Can you believe one of the managers of Chick-Fil-A sent her husband to pick us up on his jet skis. We are so grateful and so thankful.” The reporter said, “I know you had possessions that you loaded up on that jet ski so there was no room for you, and then other jet skis showed up.” J.C. said, “Karen got on one and I got on the other one. They evacuated us to higher ground and we are ever so grateful." Then this optimistic man went on to say "The future of Houston is indeed very, very bright -- the medical capital of the world; the space capital of the world;the energy capital of the world, and about to be the port capital of the world.” The reporter replied “Well, J.C. and Karen, the world is certainly a brighter place with both of you in it.” The rescuers even took J.C. back to his house later because he had forgotten his wedding ring and his wallet. He said, “I couldn’t save my house, but I could save my marriage.” The reporter said, “I love his sense of humor and he even killed a snake on his way back to his home.”

Having been in Oklahoma for the last 40 years, I know what disaster looks like from the destruction that tornadoes bring. More and more people are taking precaution and buying steel storm shelters for their homes. But what good would steel storm shelters be in South Texas? How can we be disaster proof wherever we are? What is our back-up plan in case of an emergency? What safety measures can we take to be protected no matter where we live? It’s a wake-up call, for sure. But more important than all the extra groceries and water in a cellar somewhere or valuables placed in a safety deposit box, or knowing what roads to take in case of evacuation, what would be our attitude as followers of Christ? Would we be fear-driven, have feelings of hopelessness or would we dig deep into our hearts -- where Christ lives -- with faith and hope and be like J.C. and Karen and be thinking and declaring "something good is going to come out of this”.

This is what I know about God. Our concerns are not a surprise to Him. Turning over our cares and worries to Him, is how we show Him that we truly trust Him, and His unwavering love for us. When we bring Him our attitude of praise and thanksgiving – regardless of the circumstance we're in, He gives us peace to take us to the other side -- whether it's by car, plane, bicycle or boat. And in that case, we can sincerely believe EVERY cloud really does have a silver lining” and “every flood has a rainbow”. Just check in with Noah. The grace of God carried Him, his family and tons of animals through to dry land. We pray that dry land quickly comes for our brothers and sisters in the South, and the rainbow shows up once again......very soon.

It's Mother's Day Weekend -- Time to Reminisce!

Of course I'm reminiscing. I get to celebrate motherhood. Of all the joys that this life has afforded me, being a mother is right at the top of the list. Did I make mistakes? Whew! The fact that my kids survived being raised by two inexperienced, novice "kid" parents, is remarkable! But, by God's grace, they survived. It's really quite a miracle:
• that they survived a mother that drank coffee and tea while she was pregnant;
• that I put them to sleep on their tummy in a baby crib that was covered with white lead-based paint;
• that they made it without having childproof medicine bottles, lids, doors and cabinets
• that they rode their bicycles, with no helmets; not to mention that they stood up by me in the car with no seat belt on;
• that I let them drink water from the garden hose.
• that I let them eat cupcakes, white bread, and drink Kool-Aid made with sugar, and they weren't overweight because they played outside all the time;
• that we couldn't send them to ivy-league universities, but we taught them "hard work, a never quit attitude and tenacity" and that seems to have worked out just fine for them.
• that they didn't have a Playstation or X-Box or 150 channels on TV to watch or an I-pod or a computer or internet.

In retrospect, I guess I shouldn't apologize, because their dad and I must have done something right. We watched them, over the years, become great risk-takers and problem solvers. Oh, they had some setbacks.....but they never failed to have tremendous comebacks. It must have been a "God" thing.....that He used us, with all of our inexperience to be a part of this successful, motivated, optimistic, incredible man and woman who possess such creativity and bulldog tenacity in everything they do today.

My nephew, a Baptist pastor in Vernon, Texas, sent me a private Facebook message a few days ago asking me "Besides teaching your children faith, what would you consider being the most important task of a mother? Bonus: What do you want your children to remember you by?"

And my response was: " The 'I can' attitude! "I CAN do all things through Christ Who strengthens me." Every thing, every dream, every hope, every prayer is possible because "NOTHING is impossible with our God." Basically, the Zig Ziglar mentality of being the best, being a WWJD kind of devoted follower of Christ. Never giving up -- like the little engine that could....ALWAYS, "I think I can. I think I can!" Negative thinking NOT ALLOWED in this house. Wimpy attitudes NOT ALLOWED in this house. I Can't NOT ALLOWED in this house. We create the atmosphere around us. Either we're the light that comes in or the dark that comes in! Whew! You didn't ask for all that, but it's sincerely the basis for the success of our family and it's God's Word, so, yes, faith is the crux of it all, but faith is boosted when we live in an attitude of gratitude and optimism." Whew -- my words are never FEW!

If I had further words of wisdom to offer to young moms and dads today, I'd say "Cherish the moments...every one of them!" I read this not too long ago, and I pass it along to encourage each and everyone to "take a deep breath, and enjoy the ride. Your kids will make it, too, but, take it from me.....treasure the moments!"

If I Had My Child To Raise All Over Again
I'd build self esteem first, and the house later.
I'd finger-paint more, and point my finger less.
I would do less correcting, and more connecting.
I'd take my eyes off my watch, (my add, "I'd take my eyes off my phone") and watch with my eyes.
I would care to know less, and know to care more.
I'd take more hikes and fly more kites.
I'd stop playing serious, and seriously play.
I would run through more fields and gaze at more stars.
I'd do more hugging, and less tugging.
I'd see the Oak Tree in the acorn more often.
I'd be firm less often, and affirm much more.
If I had my child to raise over again,
I'd model less about the love of power, and more about the power of love!

I'm so grateful these two made me such a proud, happy blessed Mom and Nana!

Happy Mother's Day to all my sweet mothers, sisters and friends out there. After all, God gave us all the opportunity to "mother". Some of us, naturally, and all of us the ability to share God's love by mothering through hugs, encouragement and prayers to all those who need that mother's love all around us!

We Can't Soar With Eagles If We're Hanging Out With Turkeys

For over 30+ years, Weight Watchers has been my accountability and sustainability partner to keep this girl in line when it comes to maintaining a healthy goal weight.

This post, today, isn't to advertise Weight Watchers, but to encourage us to hang with positive, supportive and inspiring people and groups that will help us keep "soaring with eagles", unless, of course, we are mentoring others who need an "eagle" role model that shows them how to fly to a higher level in their attitude and outlook in life.

Typically, I simply go in for a monthly weigh-in, but yesterday, I felt inclined to stay for the meeting. I want to make new friends, so I best be showing myself friendly to new groups here in Frisco. I was so glad I did, because, before the WW Leader started, there was already a buzz going on in the room. One of their determined WW members was being celebrated because she had reached her goal weight and has become a Lifetime Member which means all she has to do is maintain her goal weight and meetings, tools, and weigh-ins are FREE forever. This sweet gal admitted that, before now, she was ashamed to admit what her weight had been, but yesterday she admitted "I've lost 92 pounds". And, that's not the best part. Her crowning achievement includes no longer having to take medicine or insulin for Diabetes, no longer having to be on a C-pap machine, her blood pressure medicine has been cut in half and her eye doctor even told her the best thing she could have done for her eyes was to lose weight. I loved how proud she was of her new-found, better version of herself. It seems she has a whole new lease on life.

Not only was I inspired by her story, but her attitude and optimism elevated our thinking that we, too, can accomplish anything when we have the right tools, goals, and undaunted persistence and determination like she has had. And, this sweet gal isn't a "spring chicken" -- but she wants to finish life strong -- and her new self will help her do that.

Another much younger gal had reached her 10% weight loss goal and she, too, was celebrated. She admitted that sugar had been her best friend for years, and since reducing her sugar intake, the pounds have come off. She also shared that now she drinks 3 cups of green tea a day-- a tip she received from one of the founders of the Susan Komen Foundation. (BTW, to remove the bitterness of green tea, she adds a couple of squirts of lime juice.) It's been proven that the risk of breast cancer can be reduced by 50% by drinking green tea daily, and taking a tumeric pill will freeze the growth of breast cancer. Those cancer reducing routines are because she had two cancer scares, but now continues on to a healthy life. I learned all this because I took the time to "hang out" with eagles.

I looked around the room and saw these posters that put everything into perspective. I thought...."What a wonderful environment to be in to gain self respect and self worth! This is a safe place -- it is a supportive and encouraging place! We need environments like this that help us move closer to our goals and dreams!" And I thought about those who often hang out with negative folks, on purpose. I thought about those who watch negative tv shows and listen to negative commentary on the radio, and read it online and they just settle there.....scratching around with "turkeys". And, have you noticed, negativity attracts negativity?

I don't know about you, but I'm determined to hang out in places that will inspire me, empower me and build me up, that encourage me to strive to be a better me, that cause me to look at the bright side of life. I think I'll just keep on hanging out with optimistic friends and family at church, women's groups, Bible Studies, motivational meetings, and at Weight Watchers. Maybe it's time we choose a new "normal" -- the one that soars with eagles instead of hanging out with the turkeys.

Excuse me....I'm "suiting up" for flying today! How about you joining me? "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31

Changing is Possible

I know it’s hard to believe, but in all honesty, I was a shy,timid introvert as I grew up. I avoided crowds, parties, and situations that would cause me to HAVE to interact with people. So, obviously, I was not chosen to be “Most Popular”. And, I know it’s even harder to believe that I am still, not by nature, outgoing. I literally have to force myself to walk up to people and create conversation. BUT, I realized, long ago, that if I remained in that mind-set, I would never have friends. “If you want friends, you must show yourself friendly.” I had to be willing to get out of my comfort zone and be willing to change. I had to become "tweak-able"!

One of my favorite authors, Max Lucado, puts it this way: “Here’s some good news. You aren’t stuck with today’s personality. You aren’t condemned to “grumpydom.” You are tweak-able! So what if you were born a bigot? You don’t have to die one. Where did we get the idea we can’t change? Where do statements come from such as, “It’s just my nature to worry,” or. . . “I’ll always be pessimistic. I’m just that way.” Or, “I have a bad temper. I can’t help the way I react.” Who says? Would we say, “It’s just my nature to have a broken leg. I can’t do anything about it.” Of course not. If our body malfunctions, we seek help. Shouldn’t we do the same with our hearts? Can’t we seek aid for our sour attitudes? Of course we can. Jesus can change our hearts! He wants us to have a heart like His!”

And, I add to Max’s words, if we desire to be that outgoing, optimistic, cheerful personality that others want to hang with, then, we must purpose to live outside our comfort zones. We need to be the gal or guy that we want to hang with. When we're that gal or guy – others will gravitate to our "sunny" and even "funny" dispositions. They'll want to hang with us because we exude He Who lives BIG in us AND His personality ROCKS with joy, peace, abundance, patience, beauty and a merry heart!

Barring a Miracle

Did you ever have someone say that to you about a medical condition, financial situation or personal relationship? Barring a miracle, you'll have only 6 months to live; barring a miracle, you'll have to declare bankruptcy; barring a miracle, a divorce is imminent.

I heard a minister say that when he and his wife were first married, the doctor told them, "Barring a miracle, you'll never be able to have children." He went on to introduce us to his two beautiful children, now teenagers, that his wife eventually gave birth to. And, I know many other couples who were told the same thing.....but they, too, received their MIRACLE.

I've seen sports games where the commentator said, "Barring a miracle, they're going to lose this game!" And moments or minutes later, in a swift turn-around, they won the game.

To my father-in-law, the doctors said, "Barring a miracle, you won't live beyond six months." He lived for another 15 years.

Knowing what I know and experiencing what I have experienced, I assure you, without a shadow of doubt....miracles really do still happen. That's why I'm optimistic enough to NEVER say "Never", and to NEVER say "It's impossible!" Those are words NOT in the vocabulary of those who truly take the limits off of God and what He says in His Word.

Jesus said, in Mark 9:23 "All things are possible to him who believes." Perhaps you needed this faith boost today. Maybe you've been given a "Barring a miracle......" report. MIRACLE is defined as a surprising and welcome event that is not explicable by natural or scientific laws and is therefore considered to be the work of a divine agency. And that DIVINE AGENCY Who doesn't even have the word "IMPOSSIBLE" in HIS dictionary, wants us to take it OUT of ours. There is nothing that He can't do. God always has miracles up His sovereign sleeves, so let's get our EXPECTORS up and EXPECT our miracle TODAY!

Affirmative & Positive OR Negative & Pessimistic

Last week, a friend's FB post reminded me of how important it is to speak affirming and encouraging words to our children and grandchildren.  And, it shouldn't stop there -- speaking optimistic and uplifting words to everyone around us has the potential to change the course of someone's day, even their life.

Lots of wisdom here from my friend, Dan Lillpop​, in his recent post:
"This morning, as is often the case, I was feeling a bit reflective. I thought about how often we, as parents, "prophesied" to our children when they were growing up. We would say things like: 'You're going to fall!'  'You're gonna' get sick!'  'You'll miss your bus!'  'You're going to get into trouble!'

I am sure you can think of many others, but the point is, we could have, and should have, done so much better. Not that there are not times when we should have made such statements, but we should also have included such statements as: 'You're going to make it!'  'You can do it!'  'I believe in you!' 'You are special!' 'You have what it takes!' 'You're perfect just the way you are.'

My 3 boys are all grown now, and I can't go back and change how I spoke to them, but I can encourage my grandchildren into greatness, by helping them to unpack all of their potential. I want to be a spark that ignites a great passion in their lives.  As a grandpa, I'm still going to "prophesy", but now I want to prophesy success and good things. I want to help my grandchildren to become the best people they can be!  And hey! I want to also speak good things to my sons,  and for that matter, to all with whom I come into contact.  Let's "prophesy" some good stuff today!"

Honestly, Dan spoke my heart in his words. The simplest things we might say and do, which, though seemingly ordinary, carry an immense weight in telling our children they are loved, cared for, and valued.  Do you remember those childhood experiences when you sensed the approval of a parent, a teacher or loved one?  The ultimate Father figure we have is Father God, and it would behoove us to follow His example in affirming our children and others.  Take a look at the example He sets from His Word.  He gives...

An arm over the shoulder or an embrace in a time of disappointment or fear (see Deuteronomy 33:27)

A pat on the back or a firm steadying hand at a crucial moment (see Psalm 139:5)

A whisper in the ear, giving quiet assurance or secret instructions (see Isaiah 30:21)

A snug tucking in bed when surrounded by the darkness of night (see Psalm 127:2-3)

But the most affirming are those blessings that come in our words: words that affirm and approve; words that commend and compliment;  words that specifically speak love and affection; words that invoke hope and self-confidence; and  words that answer pain and disappointment with support and faith.

May our words and actions bring light and life to our family and our world today.