You Don' Gotta Stay Stuck

I admit it.
I'm in love.
It was love at first sight.

At first I was sitting quietly reading my book. I wasn't bothering anyone. I didn't want anyone to bother me. It was time for a follow-up appointment with my doctor so there I was, with my book, and then the outer doors flew open as only it happens in the movies.

It was like this ----- WHOOSH!

It's quiet
I'm reading
WHOOSH!
The doors fly open, curiosity wins out and I find my eyes peering over the top of my book ---- and there he is.

"Here I am!" he says to anyone who will listen. He makes a mad dash to the receptionists desk and greets her with "Did you miss me? I'm back!"

About thirty seconds later a woman enters the room. She is lovely - young - looks a bit frazzled - I suspect she is attached to him.

About that time I hear the receptionist saying "Max! Of course I missed you! I'm so glad you are here!"

While his mom checks him in Max works the room: "HI! I'm Max"
He skipped over my way. "HI! I'm Max"
"Hi Max! I'm Debra"
"I like you, Debra. Will you be my new best friend?"
"I would like that, Max! Will you be MY new best friend?"
He thinks that's hilarious. "Well it only makes sense if you are my new best friend then I'm your new best friend too!" I told him he had a good point.

Max's mom came my way with a tired smile to greet me. "I see you've met Max." I confessed to her I had and I was in love. She told me I was not the first to fall under Max's spell.

Max is 8-years-old. He has these wonderful dimples that frame his smile beautifully. His head is full of blonde waves that spill over his bright green eyes.

Tears filled my eyes as she told me their story: she and Max. I told her how sorry I was but she assured me it is better just the two of them. Max decided to get in on the conversation (he had been off greeting others in the room). He told me not to be sad, as I wiped a tear falling down my cheek. I told him I was sorry -- that my heart was a little sad.

"You been sad more than, uh, two days?"
I nodded that I had and he was emphatic I smile the biggest smile I could possibly smile.
"Go on! You gotta do it! You gotta smile the sad away. If you don' you be stuck and you don' gotta stay stuck!"

I smiled the biggest smile I had smiled in a long time and with that I got the biggest and bestest hug ever. Max victoriously declared me "un-stuck". It's amazing the healing powers in a smile and a hug.

I was sad when I heard my name called. That meant my time with Max was over. Didn't phase him one bit because - seeing as how we are now best friends -- Max assured me we will meet again.

I sure hope so.

Here's to hoping for you today that you meet a Max who encourages you to smile the sad away so you "don' gotta stay stuck" in whatever it is you are stuck in.

Jesus with skin on -- that's what I call people like Max. Jesus with skin on. His sweet soul won't allow him to have negative preconceived ideas about others.

And as you go in to your day, why not smile the biggest smile you've ever received. You never know, Max might come up to you encouraging you to do so because "you don' gotta stay stuck" in the stuck place you are in.

Still enjoying the journey,

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

-- Proverbs 3:5-6 --

© -- 2016, All Rights Reserved

A Confession

The blank screen before me flashes as if trying to stay awake. It grows bored in my inactivity. For too long I have stared at it trying to force something to say. My fingers are not easily fooled. They refuse to budge on the keyboard until they know I have something more than a succession of ramblings to offer.

I have been battling an inner demon the past few weeks. It is called PRIDE. It is an ugly thing to carry about. It weighs me down and yet I am having a difficult time shaking it. I would call what I'm battling my fight for independence. And yet as I convince myself of this, the Holy Spirit gently taps on the doors of my heart to remind me what it is really called: pride.

I get it naturally. Both parents fought it too. I especially remember my teen years when my brothers were out of the house and it was just mom and dad and me. Dad spent hours teaching me things: how to change my own tire, how to change the oil in my car, how to operate the riding mower, how to operate the tractor and how to fill its diesel tank from the reserve in the barn, how to unhook and hook up various pieces of equipment to the tractor. By the end of one summer Mom was so proud of me because I finally knew the difference between what were weeds and what were flowers or vegetables growing. (My apologies to the flowers and vegetables that I did mistake as weeds.)

I remember being so proud of the fact my parents were proud of me. Dad told me he loved knowing his daughter was a knowledgeable, independent woman.

Education was of extreme importance in our home. Years later after I had accomplished a Masters in Religious Studies and then a Master's in Divinity, Dad liked to remind me of that. It was as if it became his favorite tag line for me: "Anyone who can accomplish two Master's Degrees can certainly accomplish ..."

But I digress (perhaps intentionally).

There is this ugly thing I have to rely on. It is called a wheelchair. I am forced to use it so as to do no weight-bearing on one leg. That means I must swallow my pride and allow others to help me and I cannot stand that.

It got in my way these past few weeks. I'm not sure if "IT" is the wheelchair or pride or a combination of the two. I was only able to go to the hospital to see Dad when someone could take me. That was not good -- I wanted to be able to come and go as I please and stay by his bedside as much as I wanted. I had to rely on help for someone to push me around the sanctuary for Dad's service. It was so frustrating that I was unable to stand and walk to the podium to speak. It was maddening that I was unable to go to the grave with other family and friends. Many offered but I knew better -- the ground was too rough, not a place fit for a wheelchair.

At a time when all attention should be on celebrating my Dad's life, it felt as if there were neon signs flashing in my direction. I wanted the floor to open up and swallow me whole -- wheelchair and all.

I had a rip-roaring pity party for myself.
Poor pitiful me -- I was not able to join my family for prayer before the service.
Poor pitiful me -- I had to be wheeled to the back of the church to join in the family processional -- and everyone was watching.

Poor pitiful me -- I had to sit on the sidewalk while I watched my loved ones go to where Dad would be buried.

Wow -- what a horrific pattern going on:
      Poor
      Pitiful
      Me

There isn't a thing about me that is POOR. If anything I am one of the wealthiest persons around for I have been rich in love of family and friends. My cup overflows and I am grateful.

Pitiful? Pitiful? Seriously? This is a temporary thing in my journey. Ok, so it happened at a horrible time but do these things ever happen when it's convenient? No -- so get over it.

Me. That's all I'm hearing as I type: me, me, me, me, me, me, me
I'm sick of me. That's enough of me.

Good grief!
It is embarrassing to share such a personal struggle and yet I do because I realize I'm not alone.

There is someone out there who -- like me -- has been thrown a curve ball. You've gone on a detour from your path. Things aren't as you think they should be. You have no sense of control -- and your pride gets in the way.

The world tells us to put on the "everything's OK" expression and make it on our own.
God tells us that community is for the very thing I - we - resist. Pride is a sin because it distances us from God's grace reaching out to us.

I'm swallowing my pride.
I'm trying to rid myself of it.

Perhaps rather than this ongoing litany of "poor pitiful me" I should rejoice, instead, in the love and kindness of others. Dang -- that makes sense and I don't like it.

It's time to take another big gulp and call my neighbor ...
    ... for I need help ...
        ... and it is a good thing to allow others to help when we need it ...

Have you ever met him? Pride, that is. If so, I suggest we empower and enable one another to throw it out with the trash. Enough, pride! No more!

Today we - I - rejoice in the gifts God provides, including those who want to extend a helping hand.

Still enjoying the journey,

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

-- Proverbs 3:5-6 --

© -- 2016, All Rights Reserved

Lessons Learned In the Valley

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil for You are with me. Your rod and Your staff -- they comfort me ... Psalm 23:4

We all walk through the valley at some time in our journey.

The valley manifests itself in many ways.
    Perhaps you lost your job -- time to walk in that valley as you wonder what to do next ...
    Have a horrible argument with your spouse? -- yep, time to trudge through that valley
   You have a loved one literally fighting for his or life.  Your job is to be present.
    Undergone a recent move? You're deep in that valley as you work to establish new relationships.

Valley dwelling is a reality for us all.
Whether it is the death of a career, a loved one, a relationship, of health -- we find ourselves in the valley.

When we are in the valley we do not need to hear other people's valley stories.

Each valley journey is different from the other.

Your valley journey may not have the same outcome of another.

Whatever the case, whatever the outcome: we must make the choice to live.
We must decide whatever has died within us will not take up permanent residence.
We must remember we do not travel in the valley alone.

And ultimately -- no matter what your valley experience -- you must approach it as a temporary thing and keep your eyes fastened on new days ahead.

Still enjoying the journey,

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

-- Proverbs 3:5-6 --

© -- 2016, All Rights Reserved

Job Well Done

Well done, good and faithful servant ... -- Matthew 25:21

Those were the words that ran through my mind yesterday as I watched the church fill to capacity. Quite honestly I anticipated a small attendance as your service was held mid-afternoon on a work day. That, however, was not the case and I think it was a wonderful testimony to you.

We all did as you wanted, Dad. All three of us spoke. My mouth was so dry that I had trouble talking. I thought my lips were going to stick to my teeth! I've never had that happen before.

I cherish that you were mine. You were my Dad. Selfish of me to say, but it is how I feel. But in saying that, I realized yesterday how you were very much an important part of so many lives. It was so wonderful to see. People who worked with you at the VA Medical Center attended the service. Family traveled many miles to join us. Members of your church family were there. The choir sang a beautiful anthem -- one I believe you would have really liked.

We didn't say "good-bye" but it sure feels like it.

I know you are in Heaven and have been reunited with so many who went on before you. For that I am grateful and so happy for you.

We will continue on, Dad.
We will keep in touch with Betty and make sure she knows we are with her and love her.

I know this isn't good-bye.
It is instead, "until we meet again."
That doesn't make missing you any easier.

Still enjoying the journey,

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

-- Proverbs 3:5-6 --

© -- 2016, All Rights Reserved

The Legacy We Leave

There are plenty things in Scripture I wish were not there. This is one of them. 

How on earth do I live a life WORTHY?

For that matter, worthy of what? Of accolades and awards? Of public awareness and celebrity? Of a spouse and children?

Is my worth determined by monetary success? by my children and grandchildren? by my status in the business world? how? HOW?

NO, according to Paul's Letter to the Church of Ephesus (Ephesians 4:1-3):

    I have been called. Called to what?

        I have been called to live a life of humility and gentleness

          I have been called to lead a life that is marked with patience and filled with love

             I have been called to be totally open to the working of the Holy Spirit in me.

Uh-oh

I would love to be one of those persons who, upon my death, words will gush forth of my character!

"What a truly loving woman she was" they would say

"She never had a bad thing to say about anyone" they would say

"Our lives will never be the same" - they would say

As I said, uh-oh ...not a saint, never been a saint, don't know that I ever will be a saint.

I do know this, my father's death has invited me to think a great deal about my own. What will others say about me? Will I have made a difference in the world?

I can only hope. 

Through Dad's daily living I saw a deep content of character. 

I witnessed a man who did not need or want public recognition.

Dad showed me the importance of offering what he had to someone in greater need. 

I saw a man live his "golden years" more gently than ever before.

Was he perfect? No, but those times he stumbled, he recovered with grace. 

Was he eloquent in speech? Sometimes, but I cherish most the many, many times it was just me with my Dad, both of us being totally honest and growing closer together with each conversation.

One afternoon a few years ago when we were going through a difficult time I remember Dad choking up and telling me how hard he was trying and I responded in the same way. There was something in those moments of vulnerability that allowed us to suddenly grin at each other, hug, and commit to trying together. I think that is what I take with me in these days ahead -- the willingness to be vulnerable, to learn and to grow as a woman of faith in a way that invites others to do so as well.

Now -- go out and hug someone you love today. 

You may not have them with you tomorrow.

Still enjoying the journey,

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

-- Proverbs 3:5-6 --

© -- 2016, All Rights Reserved

IN LOVING MEMORY

One week ago today my Dad was admitted to the hospital.
It was the first time I ever saw him as a patient.

Today, one week later, my Dad breathed his last breath.

While I fight so many emotions the one most prevalent is feeling numb ... and blind-sided.
And yet in the midst of what feels like a sudden loss I also am so very, very grateful.

I'm grateful the cancer was so aggressive it was lightening-speed fast.
No treatment, no appointments, none of that stuff for him.

He went out the way he lived his life: quiet and unassuming.

So I share some favorite memories of this incredible man, my Dad (in no particular order):

• The year we moved to California and mom said, "no" -- there was no room in the trunk of the car for my brand new jewelry box with the dancing ballerina. I was really sad about that but turned to go put it back in my bedroom. As I passed by, Dad said, "PPpppppsssssttt." He smiled from ear-to-ear as he pointed to a space he had made for my jewelry box in the trunk.
• The afternoon Dad and I went all over the farm collecting and cataloging various leaves for my third grade school project.
• The time he taught me how to do a "doughnut" on the tractor on the side of the hill. Mama was NOT happy about that. 
• When the earthquake hit the year we lived in California -- mom staggered all over the place trying to get to us and dad remained calm and in the bed until it was over. And he laughed at mama staggering all over the place!
• When Uncle Walt died and I stood at his coffin feeling an incredibly profound sadness, Dad came up to me, put his arms around me and sobbed with me as I mourned my dear uncle and he mourned his dear friend.
• One of the many family trips to the cabin and my cousin, Ellen, wonders why there are no run-away truck ramps going UP the mountain. There was a brief silence and then dad said, "You better be glad Susan wasn't here to hear that and repeat it!" (Which it did get back to Susan and Dad LOVED coaxing that story out of her!)
• This "tough" man who did not like to have pets was the one who always brought the animals home from the research lab, refusing to let them euthanize any of them. My favorite was Sheba, the 150-pound St. Bernard -- he did a hysterectomy on her ... and Fred the horse who needed open-heart surgery and Dad and Dr. Scott designed the early heart valve that would go on years later to save numerous individuals.
• He was so proud when he became a grandfather. I love how he vowed he would be called "Lee Roy" but the minute those precious children starting calling him "Pappaw" -- it was all over -- he was hooked!
• Years later I loved seeing my mom and dad out in the congregation to come hear me preach --knowing full well he really did not like that "praise and worship" kind of music ... but he loved me enough that he still came.
• He was an incredibly intelligent man to the point someone once asked me, "Does your dad eat books?"
• When I was ordained an elder in the United Methodist Church, he proudly handed me his program afterwards. He had marked the exact time, to the second, that I was ordained.
• One very stormy afternoon in my teens, dad drove the tractor and mom and I sat on the back putting tobacco plants in the planter. We sang, we laughed, we talked and we got soaking wet. At the end of one row Dad stopped the tractor and turned around and looked at us and said, "See anything different about this row?" All three of us laughed when we realized mom and I had planted that entire row upside down.
• I loved rainy afternoons on the farm. Dad and I would sit out on the front porch and watch the storm.

So many memories ...

I cherish that the last thing we did was pray together. As I thanked God for the great privilege of being called his daughter, he squeezed my hand and then offered his own prayer of thanks for all his children. That was just a few days ago and I cling to that sacred moment.

Rest in peace, my sweet Dad. I love you forever.

Enjoying the Journey,

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

-- Proverbs 3:5-6--

© -- 2016, All Rights Reserved

God and Sharon

The hours are passing on sluggishly in this night where sleep is no friend.
Anxiety swirls hungrily, hoping to sneak in and reside.
Despair tries to settle in but it is made clear -- you are not welcome here.
Anger tries to bubble its way to the surface but Hope refuses to let it reign.
It is in these moments when one is acutely aware of the dark night of the soul.

Unwelcome news
Tears shed
Words of comfort
Expressions of love

FAITH reigns overall. Faith stands its ground, refusing to let anything destructive in.
Faith serves as the reminder, you are not alone

It was a sleepless night. I'm grateful for my sweet cousin who came out to be with me. We truly are never alone. She sleeps soundly until 4:30 when she sits straight up and asks: "Where is Sharon?" 

"Ummm ... Sharon's in Virginia."
I get a slight acknowledgement before she is back asleep again.
When she awakes later on I ask her if shes remember our conversation.
She does.
She saw my best friend (Sharon Waters) sitting right here with me through the night.
We had a good laugh over it and then she prepared to leave, extending a hug and reminding me: "You are not alone. God and Sharon. God and Sharon -- and all of us are with you -- you're going to be fine with us all on your side!"

Ah, the gift of laughter. 
Of course I had to call Sharon to tell her all about it.
My friend with whom we have shared the agony of too many deaths in our lives.
We understand each other. Distance has not been an issue in our friendship.

It is quiet now. I sit alone and listen to the many signs of life outside as my aching heart thinks of this journey through the valley of the shadow of death that is underway. 
Faith helps me celebrate a life well-lived. 
Love allows the aching heart of a daughter to cry out. 
Hope reminds me of the reunion to come someday.

It is a new day and it is good. 

Enjoying the Journey

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

-- Proverbs 3:5-6

© -- 2016, All Rights Reserved

Hanging On By A Thread

Granny Masters taught me how to crochet when I was eleven-years-old. She was so proud of that fact. I loved crocheting with my Granny. We had a wonderful banter we would exchange as she would fuss at me for not holding the yarn the "right" way and I challenged her on who determines the "right" way. She would throw those beautiful, wrinkled hands up in the air while declaring "Oh for Pete's sake!" and then go back to her own crochet project.

Time passed, I grew older, my Granny died.

It would be many years before I picked up a crochet needle again. 

In recent years that love of crochet has reignited within me. As I was working on a blanket recently I realized I had made a mistake. It had to be fixed so I begrudgingly began to unravel the work. And I went on to do as Granny had instructed. She taught me much in those sweet times and I will cherish them always.

• Always keep control of your thread. If you don't your work will be too loose and messy or too tight and unattractive.
• Know ahead of time the colors you want to use so you are prepared and have your needed supplies on hand.
• When you start something, finish it!
• Don't compare your work to anyone else. You are uniquely you and it will show in your work.

I especially have carried with me what she taught me about "hanging on by a thread." 

As I have aged and experienced the ups and downs of life I realize how important it is that I discern those things (or loose threads) I am supposed to hold on to and those I must let go of. 

I will forever keep close to me these words of wisdom from Granny.

It took me a "few" years of growing up to realize the wisdom she shared with me. I'm glad to say Granny's teachings still hold a special place in my heart and in my daily living.

You may not crochet, but I'm fairly certain these things Granny taught me are things you could learn from as well.

Enjoying the Journey

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

- Proverbs 3:5-6 -

© -- 2016, All Rights Reserved

Don't Mess With Me Angels!

It was 2:30 in the morning -- almost twenty years ago -- but I remember it as if it happened yesterday. I was sitting up with a family member who was critically ill with Stage 4 advanced cancer. 

I felt a strong hand on my shoulder but knew that was impossible as I was sitting up against a wall. It was so strong, though, I found myself looking around. That was when I became aware of the incredibly strange, strong light in the room.

I looked around and there they were.

They surrounded my loved one's bed yet I could still clearly see through them to see her. 

"They" were several angels.

No, I had not been drinking.

No, it wasn't a dream.

Yes, I was wide awake.

It was a very real and clear manifestation of angels from heaven surrounding her and protecting her at such a critical time. 

I don't know about you but my idea of angels used to be little cute cuddly beings who happily bounced about from cloud to cloud.

This bunch of angels were far from being cute and cuddly. They were HUGE. They looked like football players - except they had wings. Big, beautiful wings that were partially extended - as if to form a barrier. There was not an inch of space allowed to get in between them.

Death had no place there that night. 

They saw to it.

Yet for all the mix of glorious wings, I could very clearly see the angels and I could still see my loved one. She rested, perhaps, for the first time that evening. It was an incredibly sacred moment and I felt so blessed to have the honor of seeing them watch over her and protect her.

The sight of these angels was extraordinary.

Their presence was life-changing for me. 

They were so huge and overwhelming in their presence so their name was very clear to me. They were the "Don't Mess With Me Angels". 

It is years down the road now. I have often prayed for those very angels and, while I have felt their presence, I have never had the opportunity to actually see them again. Even if I do not see them I know they are there.

And since that time I have had people who know of my experience ask me to pray for the "Don't Mess With Me Angels" for them or their situation. I love to share of this very personal and powerful experience. It was a privilege to actually see a physical manifestation of the here and now with the sacred come down from heaven. 

I would love to hear your "angel experience." 

Perhaps you haven't had one. If not, open your mind and your heart to the miraculous that is waiting for just the right moment.

When they come believe me, you will be very clear on their presence! And you will know love in a most profound and glorious way.

Yet again, I find myself praying this day for the "Don't Mess With Me Angels" for someone I love. It is reassuring to know - whether I see them or not this time - that they are there, surrounding him and preparing him for whatever is to come.

May your heart be filled this day with the realization of the holy in our midst.

Enjoying the Journey

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

- Proverbs 3:5-6 -

© -- 2016, All Rights Reserved

Hanging On

They walked together, their young little faces showing fear and yet a quiet resolve. They dared not break their chain. No one wanted to be left alone to fend for themselves so they held hands tightly as they steadily made their way to awaiting rescue boats.

The children were a part of the 512 passengers who were on the American Cruise Ferry that caught on fire in Puerto Rico. Every passenger was rescued and all were reunited with loved ones upon getting to safety. As I watched the children holding hands I couldn't help but see rich imagery as they walked away from danger and forward into the safety of their family's arms.

We all need someone to hold on to. We need to feel attached. Even when we want or need to be alone we want to know there is someone out there cheering us on. We need to know there is someone out there who accepts us like no one else can. We need someone who always, always loves us and keeps us close in their heart -- no matter what.

That Someone is there for us all ...

As I watched the scene on the ferry unfold yesterday two things came to mind:

1) A song that is recognizable world-wide: Lean On Me by Bill Withers

Even if you don't know the verses, everyone knows the chorus:

Lean on me, when you're not strong

And I'll be your friend

I'll help you carry on

For it won't be long

'Til I'm gonna need

Somebody to lean on

I have used that song in various settings and my experience tells me of the yearning for that reassurance. I recognize the need for human touch, a human connection.

It has never failed. In all my years of being involved in music ministry this is the song that knits us together. By the end of the chorus everyone is gathered in a circle and swaying to the time as they sing with gusto.

2) Which takes me to the other thing that came to mind. Ever heard the expression "Jesus with skin on"?

I've heard it - and experienced it -- numerous times. 

There is within us a deep hunger to be loved and welcomed. Just as important - though often denied vehemently -- we all need someone to hold us accountable, to teach us and guide us.

When it's the dark of night, we need to know we are not alone.

When the pain is almost too much to bear, we need a Healer in our midst.

When we fall for the trap of believing everything we hear, we need the One who will teach us the importance of honesty and sticking to that which we know to be True.

We need -- like those children -- someone who will reach out and hold us as well.

My prayer is that whatever phase of life you are in you will know you are not alone. If you feel that way, I get it. I've been there. I have found myself sitting out on the porch, looking up at the night sky and crying and yelling out to God. It was in those dark times that I was reminded of the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit.

God IS good. 

God will provide. 

God will answer our prayers...

          ... and sometimes the answer is "no".

I can't imagine living without the sacred presence.

I hope you find that peace as well.

Enjoying the Journey,

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

- Proverbs 3:5-6 -

© -- 2016, All Rights Reserved

The Amazing Legacy of Maya Angelou

I never knew her but she felt like a dear friend.

I never met her but she worked her way in to my personal life.

She was an incredible poet and civil rights activist, to name a few.

She has been on my mind and in my heart so much of late. 

Her words challenged me.

Her witness inspired me.

Her bravery awed me.

While I feel a glorious single light was extinguished the day she died,

I believe she would challenge that thought.

She would remind me to stand tall and focus on shining my own light.

She was a modern-day prophet 

She said things people didn't want to hear

She spoke for the downtrodden, the overlooked, the unloved

She stepped on our toes when she boldly told us to refuse to be part of the problem

And she was the loudest to clap when she saw we who rose up and chose to be part of the solution.

Her words were many and each word was powerful in its own way. This is one of my favorites:

Phenomenal Woman

by Maya Angelou

Pretty women wonder where my secret lies. 

I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size   

But when I start to tell them, 

They think I’m telling lies. 

I say, 

It’s in the reach of my arms, 

The span of my hips,   

The stride of my step,   

The curl of my lips.   

I’m a woman 

Phenomenally. 

Phenomenal woman,   

That’s me. 

I walk into a room 

Just as cool as you please,   

And to a man, 

The fellows stand or 

Fall down on their knees.   

Then they swarm around me, 

A hive of honey bees.   

I say, 

It’s the fire in my eyes,   

And the flash of my teeth,   

The swing in my waist,   

And the joy in my feet.   

I’m a woman 

Phenomenally. 

Phenomenal woman, 

That’s me. 

Men themselves have wondered   

What they see in me. 

They try so much 

But they can’t touch 

My inner mystery. 

When I try to show them,   

They say they still can’t see.   

I say, 

It’s in the arch of my back,   

The sun of my smile, 

The ride of my breasts, 

The grace of my style. 

I’m a woman 

Phenomenally. 

Phenomenal woman, 

That’s me. 

Now you understand 

Just why my head’s not bowed.   

I don’t shout or jump about 

Or have to talk real loud.   

When you see me passing, 

It ought to make you proud. 

I say, 

It’s in the click of my heels,   

The bend of my hair,   

the palm of my hand,   

The need for my care.   

’Cause I’m a woman 

Phenomenally. 

Phenomenal woman, 

That’s me.

Enjoying the Journey,

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

-- Proverbs 3:5-6 --

You Can't Take It With You

Well ... you can if it will fit in your car.

Have you ever wondered about the opportunity for a "do-over"?

I certainly think about it as I look over all the stuff I have. I wonder what it would be like to reduce my stuff to only what  would fit in my car, head out, and end up in a new state -- let the adventure begin!

What will I take with me? What is so important to me that it receives a designated place in my car? And if it is only going to fit in my car, I have to think of the fact that Sarah already lays claim to the entire back seat. She is a definite must keep

It is rather freeing as I think on what I absolutely would want to keep. The list is not that long and I am surprised by that.
Bible
Jewelry - just a few special pieces
My laptop
A couple special photo albums
3 Nativity scenes
Personal items - don't want to go without toothpaste & things like that!
Small suitcase of clothing

I'm really going over and over it in my brain and I can't think of anything else that I must keep.

Well that says a lot about the importance - of lack thereof - of all the stuff I've accumulated. It's amazing how much we think we need and how little it really is.

HGTV features various shows of people shopping for new homes. It's amazing how much space they think they need. They tell the realtor they want to have less square footage -- they want to "simplify" things. The realtor shows them exactly what they asked for only to be told "it's too small." The same is said of bigger locations. A couple looks to "move up". I shake my head in amazement at the square footage of some of the places they buy.

I can't say a lot about that. Yet again, I shake my head at all the stuff I've acquired. Stuff I thought was so important at the time or stuff that I simply thought I must have. And now here I am and I realize I actually CAN do without it.

I look to the witness of Jesus when he was here on the earth. He made it clear that to live simply is the best way to go. You are unencumbered from the material things this world has to offer. Trust that everything you need will be provided along the way.

Can I head out with NOTHING? Can I trust that my needs will be met?
I really struggle over this. Is my faith such that I would do this and, in so doing, know that any food, clothing, etc. be provided?

Just thinking on this these past few days ... the adventure continues ...

Enjoying the Journey,

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

-- Proverbs 3:5-6 --

HGTV to the RESCUE

I've tried to watch the news but I can only tolerate about ten minutes max. I'm getting to where I click on local news for a few minutes to get headlines. If I get notifications on my cell phone I click on them to learn of "breaking news". Other than that, give me HGTV and I'm set.

I don't use this word lightly but stupid seems to be the overarching theme these days ... political climate, rise in shootings across our nation, rise in terror attacks world-wide, fear-mongering in general: the stupidity monitor is at an all-time high.

Think about it:

• Things that are being said AND believed -- we are at an all-time high with irresponsible politics overall -- stupid.
• Seemingly accepted mind-set of shoot first, ask questions later -- stupid.
• Choices to follow radical terrorist groups and mindlessly murdering people to get their approval -- stupid.
• "Responsible" news anchors and commentators shouting at each other and only adding to the fear-mongering going on -- stupid.

In TV land, here is what we need to do -- just go with me a minute.

Let's bring in Chip and Joanna Gaines and Jonathan and Drew Scott -- they will fix things up in an hour with time for a commercial or two to spare. 

Think about it:

• Set a budget and stick to it. Imagine that!
• Challenge us to think outside the box and look at the ugly, falling-apart things -- they will help us see their beauty and make them brand new. Genius!
• Bring everyone in to work together. Outstanding!
• Their requirements for workers and participants alike: optimistic attitudes, willingness to laugh at self and each other in spirit of fun, keeping open eyes and hearts to new possibilities. Fabulous!

Think I'm kidding?

How often do we see a spirit of "my way or the highway" in our culture in general? 

What do we see more: responsible conversation or constant bickering and interruptions?

What is our spending like -- personally, politically, in our homes, in our churches, in our communities, etc.?

Tell me this: when we think about going out for a fun-filled afternoon at the movies or shopping trip to the mall do we just hop in our cars to go or is there now this added dimension -- the pause, the slight bead of perspiration on the forehead, the thought that flashes "what if" ... 

I think on these things because I'm right in that mix somewhere -- guilty as charged.

Which is why I am so grateful I was reminded this morning by a wonderful Godly woman of this: Your mind can be a factory of fear or a fountain of faith. It's your decision. Thank you, Patsy Clairmont, for words of love and challenge that I needed to hear!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR ... and how grateful I always am when God's Word reminds me things such as ... Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. -- Matthew 10:29-30

So very, very grateful to think on the One who came and lived, died and rose again that we might have new beginnings. I know -- without a shadow of a doubt -- God will usher in a new day. I pray that people of faith will rise up in the meantime and be living and loving examples for a dark, hurting and fearful world.

With that said, guess I need to get out of my "HGTV or bust" mentality, get out in the world and face up to facts so that I might boldly live up to my faith. 

Enjoying the Journey,

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

-- Proverbs 3:5-6 --