You only live once.
As corny as this may sound, it's true as true can be. We have to make our lives what we will before it's gone. We are here to spread the word of God and to live in His image. This does not mean go crazy. :) Look within yourself and ask these questions..1.) Am I doing what I know in my heart I am designed to do?
2.) Am I making a positive difference in a life of someone?
3.) Am I bringing joy to others so Christ is seen in me?"
I ask myself the first question often. I often find myself trying to please others first, instead of doing what needs to be done. I don't want to be thought of as the "bad guy" so I tend to put what I truly know in my heart, a little to the side. Then one day, out of the blue, I wake up and am like... what am I doing? I need to make a change. Well, easier said than done. I have envisioned myself working with missionaries at some point, or photographing God's glory. That might happen. It might not. But I can still close my eyes and imagine the ways I can glorify Him.
The second question, without a doubt, I learned the answer from my mom, and have lived it ever since. I try to be the "glass half full" girl most of the time, projecting positive energy and encouragement on those who are having it a bit rough. Of course, I can't please all people all of the time, so I just do my best.
The third question... My answer is always the same... "not enough"
- Don't waste your time on negative people.
- Be the glorious person God made you to be.
- Realize that you don't really "need" anyone but Him, and that He will be your best friend and biggest supporter.
- Use your one life to make a difference in a life of someone. Though nothing tangible may come of it, the intrinsic reward is overwhelming. Even if it's just a smile, hug, handshake, surprise card in the mail, text or a phone call... Just do it.
- Be the person you're meant to be, no one else.
- Step out of the box of normalcy, dive into His grace and acceptance, and in your heart, you'll know what to do.
- Do not deny yourself the grace of God. Feel it. Live it. Be thankful for it.
For my cousin that has just been slammed with a brick wall, and is not even digesting it yet... Take comfort in the fact that God is here, as He has always been, right beside you on your journey. Talk to Him, pray to Him, and feel peace that it is all part of His plan. I'm not going to lie and say it didn't shock me as well. Memories come flooding back of other events that have happened over the last 15 years. Do what you need to do, be who you need to be, say what you need to say, go where you need to go. No holds barred. Just be your wonderful self that you have always been. You are in my prayers and in my heart. I love you.
