Category: Wisdom

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Wisdom

Wiggle It Out

When I was a kid and had a loose tooth, I wiggled it like crazy until it came out. It was a fun challenge and felt like a rite of passage. For Lydia, not so much.

By now, she has lost a number of teeth and should be used to it. But, whenever she has a loose tooth, she gets upset about the impending loss. She feels lightheaded and is worried about the potential pain. Like her dad, she doesn’t like the sight of blood.

So, this last weekend, it all came to a head when Lydia had yet another loose tooth. I convinced her it would come out faster, and cause less pain overall, if she wiggled it.

Well, of course, Lydia grew a little woozy and wanted to stop. I offered to help and/or pull it out and she waffled. I didn’t want to pressure her, so I let it go.

Eventually, after more encouragement, Lydia let me have a turn. Thankfully, it was mostly ready and came out with a little effort. She ran to look at her mouth in the bathroom mirror. She bravely overlooked the small amount of blood.

Soon, Lydia came back to me with a huge smile on her face. She was relieved. With a sigh, Lydia said, “Wow. I feel like a load is off my shoulders!”

A little while later, she came over again and said, “Mom! My new tooth is already poking through. Gosh…. That was fast!”

The new adult tooth was just waiting on the baby tooth to leave!

That night, Lydia and I talked about how her sense relief was far better than her fear. She had been worried but realized she didn’t need to be…

Baby teeth have purpose for a time, before giving way to adult teeth. Losing them is totally normal and natural. Similarly, God’s plan for us also is perfect and purposeful. It doesn’t need to be scary or odd!

Interestingly, on Monday, Lydia was excited to watch me get my teeth cleaned at the dentist! Going to the dentist is kind of uncomfortable, but of course important.

As we drove to daycare and work after the dentist, we talked about teeth and also how fear plays out in other areas of life.

Often, we stop short of what God is calling us to do because we are afraid. We may fear missing out or what is required. We may want to play it safe and stay comfortable.

Still, we cannot have Victory when we give in to fear and doubts. Instead, when we have questions, we can take them to Jesus. In His presence, our worries fade and we grow stronger in faith.

When we let Jesus write our stories, He brings a better outcome than we could have imagined. It may look different than expected, but He always gives us something good.

Sometimes transitions are tough. They might make us wiggle and squirm! But change and growth are always worth it. We don’t have to be afraid.

God is trustworthy and faithful. He has a special purpose for each of us and will never let us down! Now that’s something to smile about!

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Heavenly Father, thanks that Your burden is easy and Your yoke is light. Thanks for doing the most difficult work on our behalf. Help us trust You more and follow Your lead. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What is something that you need to let go? Do you need to change your mindset or adopt a better attitude? What about changing your schedule or trying something new?

Tasks: Don’t be afraid of change. Let go of anything that is holding you back. God’s grace is more than enough.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Words

Discussion, Not Division

Well, here we are about halfway through 2020. I don’t think any of us expected it to be like this! So many wildcards… though, I am grateful God can take everything bad and work it for good in His time and in His way. He is faithful!

Lately, I have seen a few posts about how we need to ‘get angry’ and if we don’t speak up, we are part of the problem. On the one hand, I agree. Much of what has happened this year is upsetting and should absolutely be discussed.

But, I don’t make great decisions when I am angry or emotional. “Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires” (James 1:20). Besides, we don’t just need words, we need action. We have to make changes that will last.

Sadly, I have seen a number of my Christian friends flat-out argue with each other online about what needs to happen. Some of those are heavy topics, sure, but I hate seeing such division. I’m sure it breaks God’s heart, too.

It’s alright if we disagree! None of us is perfect is or has it all figured out. But we need to take better care of each other… be kind, be patient, listen. A house divided will never stand.

In many ways, it seems we are playing right into our Enemy’s hand, stirring up strife and hatred. Yet, Jesus said the world will know us by our love, not by our arguing.

Ironically, I have also seen several people tell others exactly how they should think or feel, march or protest, vote or use their voice. They have strongly stated it is unChristian or unAmerican to do this or that. This assumes the person agrees and shares their perspective.

This happened to me recently. I was rebuked online for pointing out facts in a news article that was clearly biased. The person said they “just did a quick Google search” to learn about the topic but then posted the article anyway. The topic had nothing to do with this person or where they live, and there is much more to the story than the one article suggested. I gently suggested looking at all the sides before making conclusions, but I received an eyeroll emoji and a strong rebuke.

I’ve come to the conclusion that this is one reason why people stay silent and don’t speak up in public. Yes, that needs to change to some degree. But, it seems we are damned if we do and damned if we don’t!

There are a variety of ways to tackle injustice or use your influence for good. Based on your personality and life experiences, perhaps you are comfortable leading the charge and voicing your opinions. You might have a quick ‘reaction time’ while others have a much slower fuse. That’s great! Just give others time to catch up.

Or, perhaps you prefer to have face-to-face conversations over coffee, volunteer locally, or write to Congress. If you like to work behind the scenes, thank you! We may never see the contribution you are making. I challenge you to speak up in your own way, and don’t let anyone tell you it’s not good enough!

Either way, there are many ways to serve, and each person can make a difference.

It’s okay if you don’t know how to think or feel on a topic. But do your own research.

Consider all angles before making decisions. It is wise to have as many details, pros/cons, and facts as possible. Don’t ask advice from random people on the internet, but do ask people who have experienced what you need to know.

The method may vary depending on the topic. Read your Bible and pray. Research key points through trusted resources, and/or study the science behind whatever you are thinking about. Have a good understanding of the issues at hand. Challenge your own opinions with facts!

Unfortunately, the public tendency to second-guess experts combined with the noise of social media doesn’t help. We can’t rely on easy answers for complex topics.

I have seen differences arise when one person is holding fast to principle while the other person is touting a different perspective. It is quite possible both people are right… Still, we can be compassionate as we seek to learn from each other. Discuss, but don’t divide!

For me, the bottom line is this: We represent Jesus to a world in desperate need of healing. Don’t stand in the way of anyone coming to Him!

Don’t let your behavior (online or in person) prevent anyone from meeting the One who died for them, the One who makes all things right. Find common ground. Use your gifts, talents, and platform wisely. Be an example, don’t turn people off!

Thankfully, in any situation, there is a right way that honors God. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and Life (see John 14:6). Therefore, our goal as Christians is to always find the best path forward (the one that pleases God) knowing He will help us!

This includes a path of humility and open-mindedness. We may have to admit we were wrong, but growth means change is coming! Therefore, let’s embrace the discomfort knowing God is with us and for us.

The path forward ALWAYS promotes peace, justice, love, grace, and mercy.

Anything worth doing is worth doing well. Each of us has different goals and plans, but we can support one another and move forward together.

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Heavenly Father, thanks for holding us all together. You are sovereign, and we praise You! Please help us use our words to build each other up and not tear each other down. May we stand firm in what You have called each of us to do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: As you speak with other people, are you letting your emotions get ahead of you? After you leave, are you still telling yourself you are in the right? Or are you able to let it go and praise God?

Tasks: Meditate on these verses: James 1:20; Ephesians 4:29; and Romans 14:1. Consider what you post on social media. Is it to gently inform or encourage? Is it truthful and helpful? Have you fact-checked your sources?

Posted on in Being Gracious, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom

Speaking Up for Injustice

Disclaimer: While the scope of my blog is not political, it is a place where I can gather some of my thoughts on current events. Keep in mind I am a work in progress… thank you!

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Being rather nonconfrontational by nature, I often prefer to avoid difficult conversations. Even now, I generally don’t comment on controversial posts online because I don’t want to deal with the negativity or keep up with all the comments. Who has time for that?! Besides, arguing with people remotely never helps change anyone’s mind.

Yet, over the years, I have learned that sometimes it is better to deal with conflict head-on. At any rate, I don’t want someone to mistake my silence on important issues as indifference. Because, unfortunately, they look very similar… God forgive me.

With a blog called “Grace and Lemonade,” my goal is to glorify God for what He is doing, especially when life is difficult. Often, I wrestle with various issues and consider how to move forward in faith, not fear. My other goal is to bring encouragement and challenge my readers to see God’s grace in their lives. In turn, we can all share these gifts with others.

After all, grace means favor. The essence of grace and refreshing lemonade is meant to bless others, too. It is an overflow of God’s goodness!

Yesterday, Lydia and I were in the car listening to the radio when something was said about staying positive. But, in light of current events, I turned it off to make a point.

I said, “You know, Lydia, it is really good to be positive and focus on what is going well. I think we do that every day. But sometimes…”

“We might ignore talking about what is important,” Lydia said.

I’ve never been so glad she interrupted me! I was a little surprised at her understanding, but it meant that we were on the same wavelength.

I confirmed her thought process. “Yes! If we’re not careful, we might bypass difficult topics because they are unpleasant. But, in that case, nothing changes.” We soon applied this to the topic of racism and the need to change the status quo.

In terms of racism, America is ~400 years behind. It is a complex issue we inherited, and we have been averse to dealing with it as a nation. Now is the time.

 Racism is subtle and will take some unlearning. Quite often, we (or at least me, as a white person) don’t even recognize it! We have to accept responsibility and speak up for injustice. We cannot give up when it becomes uncomfortable or inconvenient.

When I read/watch/hear about George Floyd’s death (and Ahmaud Arbery’s and so many before that), I also think of my cousins, friends, neighbors, and patients who deal with prejudice every day. I cannot fully understand how racial discrimination feels, but I can empathize and speak up when I see it.

I also think about how all this injustice breaks God’s heart. Each of us is made in His image, and each of us invaluable. BELOVED. Furthermore, no one should feel unsafe while jogging or walking their dog or grocery shopping.

Tackling racism can look different depending on the situation, but it is necessary no matter what. On the one hand, I have been working toward this with Lydia since she was little. I have a wonderful multicultural family, and we seek out opportunities to meet people, not like us. We have had age-appropriate conversations and read several children’s books my aunt gave me a few years ago. That’s a great start, but it’s not enough.

So, Lydia and I have been talking more deeply about these issues lately. Her ‘anti-racist’ education starts with me! I have shown her certain news clips showing injustice and what is wrong, systemically. We have talked about white privilege, what that means, and how we can use it to speak up and serve others. This YouTube clip was particularly helpful.

As we went to the grocery store recently, we discussed how masks are somewhat uncomfortable but essential to help with coronavirus. I added how our black family, friends, and neighbors may feel unsafe wearing them and how unfair that is. On our way to work and daycare, I mentioned how, when we get ready for the day, we may think about our outfits or activities, but we never think about getting killed.

These conversations are ongoing, and I appreciate all who have shared resources. Change begins at home, but can’t stop there. It doesn’t have to be complicated, but I am finding teachable moments to plant seeds and will keep watering them over time. I also plan to discuss this further with my friends and extended family. We can’t stay silent.

When it’s all said and done, only Jesus can fully understand the issues and heal our nation. But I can educate myself and my daughter, speak up when I see injustice, and show compassion. I have to give Jesus something to work with!

Bottom line: Don’t do nothing. Speak up. Be an advocate. Educate yourself on racism. Learn about other cultures. Have difficult conversations. Volunteer with an organization. Vote. Love your neighbor. Put a real face with the issues. Don’t spread disunity or hatred. Don’t make excuses or quit when it is uncomfortable.

What holds one of us back holds all of us back.

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God forgive me for the times I have taken this life and the gifts You have given me for granted. Forgive me for when I haven’t spoken up for the things that break Your heart. Teach me Your ways, and help me love others like You do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are you doing to become ‘anti-racist’? How can I help? (This is a newer term to me, so I am still working through it myself!)

Tasks: First, bring all your thoughts and feelings to Jesus. Let Him bring wisdom, understanding, compassion, and if needed, correction. Then, check out these books on anti-racism, which are helpful in understanding the issues at hand. Finally, start reaching out, speaking up, and talking with others. Use your voice for good!

Posted on in Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Worship

All the Glory

I am so thankful for how God chooses to bless us and help us. Whether our day goes as planned or not, He still reigns. As long as we seek His input and aim to glorify Him, we will be on the right path. It can look different everyday, however!

Yesterday morning, I woke up with a certain set of tasks and goals but needed to switch it up as the day progressed. For instance, I grabbed my rain jacket to deal with some light rain on my way to work. I got moderately wet on my walk inside, but I didn’t mind too much. I knew, later in the afternoon, it would be nearly eighty degrees!

During my work day, I altered my plans based on how the day presented. I got some of my work done and fielded some calls and questions, too. Even though I didn’t complete all my original tasks, I tied up some loose ends and felt good about my work.

Yesterday afternoon was quite warm indeed! It was beautiful and sunny after the rain left. On my way to pick up Lydia and run some errands after work, I saw yards with tons of dandelions and yards without. I saw beautiful crabapple trees and tulips, too! I also heard various songbirds, which is one of my favorite sounds. 

Along the way, I was overwhelmed with gratitude in this current season. I appreciated the weather, but also the freedom we have to do what we need to do and enjoy life (despite various pandemic protocols). Regardless of our circumstances, God is so good!

I kept thinking about how wonderful it is that God is with us and in us and still above it all. Soon, I rolled down the windows and quietly sang the first song that came to mind: Holy, Holy, Holy.

No matter what we are doing, every moment is a great moment to praise God!

After I picked up Lydia, she showed me TWO four-leaf clovers. I don’t think I have ever found any, and she has already found several (including the ones from yesterday)! She was calm yet happy, as she had been looking for a few days. Something so simple made her feel proud of herself. Her diligence paid off!

Even though our days were different, we each were able to honor God in our own ways. I was able to praise God in the moment and on-the-go. Lydia was able to apply patience and focus to find something God created. Everything we do can honor Him!

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God, thanks for helping us each day. Thanks for taking such good care of us. Help us live for You and give You glory in all we do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How has your week been going? Have you been able to see God at work around you? How can you give Him glory and praise?

Tasks: Wherever you find yourself this week, take a few moments and reflect on God’s goodness. Praise Him for His faithfulness!

 

 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom

A Life Well-Lived

Christian evangelist and apologist, Ravi Zacharias, stepped into eternity yesterday morning after a brief battle with sarcoma. His death has been reported by several news organizations as tributes continue to pour in. He is already missed by people all around the world.

I have followed Ravi Zacharias International Ministries (RZIM) for a few years, at least. I am saddened for our collective loss. At the same time, I rejoice that he is pain-free and in the presence of Jesus.

Ravi Zacharias was well-known for his quick wit, intellect, and for teaching us to use our God-given brains. Imagine that! Although, he has been compared to C.S. Lewis and a few others, he is unparalleled in his own right.

When dealing with challenging topics, Ravi Zacharias could hold his own and keep his cool. He was well-respected by people from many cultures and religions. He was invited to speak to Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Mormons, among others.

I appreciate how he always pointed people back to Jesus. He never forced the issues at hand, but sought to build bridges. In defending the Christian faith, it wasn’t about making demands or being right. He knew he was right, however!

Instead, Ravi Zacharias confidently sought to glorify God and show grace to his opponents. In addition to his passion for logical debate, he was known for being kind and gracious. He always had a smile and was a gentleman! What a testimony!

Especially today, we can continue to learn and benefit from his example. Faith and logic can coincide together. We don’t have to choose, and we don’t have to argue. We don’t have to let differences or disagreements separate us or distract us from what is most important. We can spread God’s love and leave the outcomes with Him.

Ravi Zacharias made the case that for a religion to be real, it needs to stand the test of not only logic but live-ability. He concluded that only Christianity meets those empirical and practical requirements. And then, he proved it in his own life.

We, too, can live out our faith by combining sound principles and lovingkindness. God is on our side, so we don’t need to give in to conspiracy theories or fear. We don’t need to strong-arm someone who doesn’t eye-to-eye with us. We also don’t have to defend God! He will set the record straight. We just need to have courage and obey.

There will never be another Ravi Zacharias. Indeed, it is incredible to see what God can do through us when we honor Him with a life well-lived.

Thankfully, he had the foresight to develop a team of people to follow after him. It will be interesting to see how they carry on his legacy at RZIM.

I pray for his family and close friends to have peace and comfort in the coming days. Even in the sadness, I am excited to see what God will do next. The best is yet to come!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for Your wisdom and grace. Thanks for giving us power, love, and a sound mind (2 Tim. 1:7). Thanks for loving us so much and for revealing Yourself to us.

Questions: Have you read any Ravi Zacharias books or heard him speak? Which book is your favorite? How have you been impacted by his testimony?

Tasks: It is common to question God in times of loss. But, we don’t have to be angry or upset for long. God knows what He is doing in all situations. He does not cause sickness and death, but He will use them for His glory and our good. If you are facing painful circumstances, draw near to God. He is close to the brokenhearted. He longs to help you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

You’re Gonna Get Wet

We’ve had some rainy weather this week, which is certainly not unusual for spring. Can you say, “green grass?!” Thankfully, the rest of the week is supposed to be mostly sunny. The sun did come out today, proving rainy days don’t last forever!

Nonetheless, yesterday, it was sprinkling all morning. I needed to mail a little package, but I also needed to drop off Lydia at daycare (nowhere near a post office).

I usually try to fit quick errands in either before work or after, depending on the timing. Often, I plan ahead, but yesterday, I only had a few minutes to spare.

I didn’t want to be late for work, so I looked at the forecast and my weather radar app. As I tried to decide if mailing my package could wait until later, a thought occurred to me. 

“Either way, you’re gonna get wet.”

The forecast was cloudy and rainy all day. So my choice was really between if I should go when it was sprinkling or wait, hoping it would not be downpouring later.

The odds were not in my favor.

In the end, I decided I was cutting it too close and waited until after work to run to the grocery store, which conveniently has a little post office, too. 

Thankfully, the weather was still only sprinkling! It worked out well, and I was able to pick up a few other groceries before getting Lydia at daycare.

In life, we face many storms (real and metaphorical). It is inevitable that at some point, we’re gonna get wet. Many storms pop up out of nowhere. 

Yet, sometimes storms are related to consequences for poor choices. Sometimes we can look ahead and see what’s coming. In those instances, we may be able to avoid the storm altogether. But not always.

Although it is nice to stay warm, dry, and well, comfortable, it is not possible to always avoid storms. However, we can still be prepared.

We can review the forecast and radar. We can keep an umbrella in our car. We can stock up on a few key supplies (like water and flashlights, not toilet paper!). We can use wisdom.

We can also pray ahead of time, asking God for help. He alone knows what is coming and will lead us in our preparations. But, we have to be willing to make adjustments accordingly. He will never lead us astray!

Often, our attitude will determine how we come through the storm. Yes, we can make up our minds ahead of time–set our attitude–for how we will handle getting wet.

It is unrealistic to think we will never have to deal with life’s storms. We are going to get wet, so we might as well make the best of it! Let’s splash in the puddles!

We can hopefully prevent some of the pain storms bring, but it is even wiser to check our attitude and trust God. Jesus said we would have troubles. But, He is faithful.

Jesus is both above the chaos and with us in it. He can bring peace and help in any storm.

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Heavenly Father, thanks for bringing the rain and using it to provide new life. Help us make wise decisions and have a good attitude. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you like thunderstorms? Do you have an emergency kit on hand?

Tasks: Read about when Jesus calmed a storm in Mark 4:35-41!

 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

On Beating Boredom

We all know what it feels like to be bored (or in a pandemic, cooped up with nowhere to go). I have previously listed many wonderful options, such as virtual tours of famous cities, zoos, and museums, so will take a different angle today!

During this time, I have not been very bored. But, unlike many people, I have not been ‘stuck’ at home for the last month-and-half. I am thankful I’ve had the opportunity to work!

At home, Lydia and I often talk about being content and making the best of each situation. We probably talk about gratitude just as much as we talk about healthy grieving!

I am so happy Lydia is not a routine complainer. That all makes the difference! 🙂

Yet, in my tenure as a parent, I have periodically heard her say, “Mom, I’m bored. I have nothing to do.” Sure, as an only child, Lydia has no built-in playmates. But she still has loads of art supplies and a fair amount of books and toys.

Awhile back, I read an article (somewhere) about how boredom can lead to creativity. So, I am not worried about Lydia being bored, per se. Instead, I encourage her to do something creative… or I give her a chore to do!

The more she starts to whine, the more I lean toward chores…

Naturally, in terms of personal application, this makes me wonder…

How often do we tell God we are bored or stall in disobedience? How often does our attitude affect how we see what is going on in our lives? How often do we overlook the good and complain about what we still don’t see?

When life is stable, isn’t that a good thing? Still, there have been times, in my life at least (ahem), when I have been tempted to complain. “God, when will my circumstances change? I’m so bored doing the same old thing. Hurry up and do something new!”

But, when we simply change our attitude, it’s amazing how quickly our perspective can change! How about this instead: “God, here I am. I am available. Let me know what You would like me to do. Help me be content.”

Then, suddenly, our eyes are open to what God is doing around us! We start looking for opportunities to serve others and find joy in meeting their needs. Having an outward focus and blessing others is what makes life exciting again!

Reminder: This life is not about me, it’s about loving God and loving others.

Ironically, at other times, we can grow so comfortable in our own little bubble, that we don’t appreciate or enjoy when God shakes things up or challenges our security.

How fickle we can be! I’m sure grateful for God’s mercy, grace, and patience!

Lydia and I were recently discussing the concept of ‘beating boredom.’ We decided instead of saying, “I’m bored, I have nothing to do,” we should say, “Well, I have a lot of time right now.  Is there someone who needs help? What can I do?”

Just that little switch helps us recognize the gift of time, which is from God. May we use our time wisely and not waste it with grumbling and complaining!

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God, thanks for the gift of TIME. Thanks for giving us so many resources and creativity. Help us use all of our gifts and talents to bless others and bring You glory. Make us aware when we start to complain or take it all for granted. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How are you doing this week? Are you bored or do you have plenty to do? Either way, how can you bless someone else?

Task: Next time you are bored, consider how best to use your time. Sure, you can learn a new skill or clean out a closet, but perhaps you can find a way to help someone else!

 

 

 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Wisdom

Finding Grace #216

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?

This was a fairly relaxing week! Lydia and I continued to go to work and daycare. She kept up with distance learning and I made progress on a few personal projects.

This week felt like spring… finally! It was a little cooler at the beginning of the week, but each afternoon was nice. Lydia and I noticed the Red River is retreating a little at a time.

Yesterday was the most beautiful and warm day of all! We did a few inside activities early on and then spent the afternoon outside! I swept the garage and put out all the deck furniture (a small table with two chairs and two benches). Lydia and I also raked a bit, and I took down the Christmas lights. Later, we noticed the grass is turning green while played a game of croquet. After that, we ate a picnic dinner and played some fun water games.

Today, I had an online video chat with some friends from church. We discussed a book on personal growth, and I enjoyed hearing everyone’s different perspectives!

After that, Lydia and I started a three-month online cooking class, which began with us cleaning out the refrigerator and reorganizing our pantry! She was so excited! Hopefully, the pictures and explanation we posted earn us a good grade. 🙂 It should be a fun class!

Otherwise, we are enjoying our time at home. We are doing our best to social distance, but have been checking in with friends and family. We also are minimizing our errands and wearing masks. We did make it to Costco this week, and I am thankful we were able to get what we needed without too many stops. Thank You, Jesus!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

The Eyes Have It

I am glad that more and more people are wearing homemade masks in public, per current CDC guidelines. The masks are helpful to prevent spreading germs in the midst of this pandemic.

There are several easy and inexpensive ways to make a masks, but I purchased a few masks online. Lydia got a few for daycare and I got a few for work.

While we waited for those masks to arrive, my mom’s cousin also sent us each a homemade mask. We were so thankful for her generosity and support.

When they came, Lydia tried hers on right away. She was super excited and asked me to take her picture. “Mom, please make sure to tell Elizabeth that I’m smiling!”

It is a little strange wearing masks at work and throughout the day. I typically take mine off in the ‘safety’ of my own office. After all, it can be a little awkward to talk on the phone with a mask!

But, I forgot to put it on once yesterday and was walking around wondering why people were looking at me. Whoops!

When wearing a mask, I have noticed it is even more important to look people in the eye and acknowledge them. Otherwise, it makes everyone feel alone and unseen.

There are several ways to reach out while still needing to social distance and wear a mask.

You can still say hello, call or text someone, and yes, even smile at those around you. Often, someone’s smile reaches all the way up to their eyes. Smiles are contagious, even if they are hidden.

We’re all facing uncertainty, so look out for ways to help ease the burdens of others. For example, you can still hold doors for people or stop and answer their questions.

Even with a mask, you can still say thank you or write someone an encouraging note. You can even do random acts of kindness, like paying for someone’s coffee or giving an extra large tip.

Thankfully, I don’t foresee most of us wearing masks forever. A little discomfort now will pay off in saved lives. Then, we can keep moving forward!

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God, thanks for protecting us and providing for us. Help us have awareness to the needs around us. May we bless others with Your kindness and love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you wearing homemade masks in public? Did you buy them or make them? How is your quarantine season going?

Task: Be on the lookout for ways to help someone else today!

 

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

On Compromise

Hello! How are you holding up this week?!

So far, Lydia and I are doing well. We had a peaceful holiday weekend and then hit the ground running on Monday. Suddenly, I had about fourteen emails, calls, texts, and social media requests to attend to (after work, homework, an online meeting, a hangry meltdown, dinner, and an impromptu phone call).

Every day can be so different. A global pandemic doesn’t help! Whether you are staying home every day, or are able to still go to work, we each have complex circumstances.

Let’s extend each other an extra measure of grace.

In many ways, I have had to let go of what other people think and attend to what’s in front of me. Some things are more relaxed, but as always, I still have a lot to do. So do you! 🙂

Of course, anything worth having or doing takes intention. I look forward to warmer weather and hopefully, the ability to reconnect with people in person. Until then, I have been keeping in touch via texts, calls, and video chats. I’m grateful for technology!

And, I know it is important to pick my battles. Crisis or not.

One key to coping well is learning to adapt. For example, I’ve had to change my route to work about four times in the last six weeks. I have reframed my (now longer) morning drive, and I am choosing to view it as taking the scenic route.

Another key to successful coping is compromise. That may include setting aside certain projects or tasks in order to focus on your family’s needs. Compromise may mean preserving your sanity by taking a break from social media or even the news. It may include setting boundaries in relationships or taking time to regroup. Or, maybe it’s serving others and going all in. There is give and take, and that looks different for each of us.

One important note, however: We cannot compromise regarding what God is calling us to do. We cannot compromise our values or integrity. We cannot compromise faith or obedience. We cannot give up holy ground.

I am NOT talking about our rights as citizens or church-goers. We absolutely need to follow the law and health recommendations. This is not the time to push an agenda.

During this time, we all should lay down our own goals, plans, and desires for the good of all. Stay home. Wash your hands. Wear a mask. Keep social distance. Yes.

What I am talking about how it is easy to let important matters slide under stress. It is easy to give up or make excuses when times get rough. I have heard of many people making decisions lately, without thinking about the long-term consequences.

People have been cutting their bangs, taking money from retirement accounts, turning to bad habits, and accepting less than they deserve. The long-term impacts could be financial, relational, or yet unseen.

I don’t know all these people personally, or the various factors and circumstances they are facing. I am merely using these points as examples. But I do know that God understands each person’s situation. He cares deeply and is ready to help!

Sure, desperate times call for desperate measures. Maybe you are totally confident cutting your bangs. Or, maybe you have a specific plan for using your retirement money. Awesome!

But, let’s not forget Who is fighting for us. We do not HAVE to be afraid or make fear-based choices. Trust Jesus!

We are not left on our own to fend for ourselves. God is on our side. He is for us and promises to provide for us! When we bring him our weaknesses, He will give us His strength.

In times of distress or despair, pause and consider what is at stake. We cannot afford to just get by! Instead, we need to stand firm and seek God’s input.

We can’t see the future, yet He knows the end from the beginning. He’s already there!

We can trust God fully. Crisis or not, He never compromises. He does lead us with mercy and grace. And if we let Him, He will get us where we need to be. No doubt.

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Father God, thanks for Your peace and provision. Thanks that we don’t have to live in fear. You are so good to us. Help us trust You with our decisions, our finances, our health, and our relationships. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you find it easy or challenging to trust God? Is there one area that is more difficult than another?

Tasks: Bring all your concerns to Jesus. Before making a big decision, check-in with Him first. He may give you the green light to go ahead, or He may surprise you with a different (better) answer. He loves to bless us!