Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #99

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

As I look forward to the coming week, I am appreciative that I get to work from home the first business day of every month. If it is the end of a quarter, I get to work from home the first two business days of every month. Yes, I get to use those days working on month end and quarter end reports. I have done this for the past three years. That is a privilege, especially considering the long drive from Florissant to downtown every day. Therefore, I do not take it for granted.

Often, we receive privileges and we do not pause to be grateful for them. If we do give thanks, in the same breath that we are saying we are grateful we are saying  what else should be happening for us or “I wish…” Let “us” start spending more time giving thought to what “we” can do for someone else. Let “us” think about what is it that “we” are not willing to relinquish in our lives and how “we” can be vessels in every aspect of our lives for God. Let us stop letting our minds just runaway with “what else” we think we need or want.

“But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also.” (Matthew 6:33 Amplified)

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #98

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Yesterday I was reflecting back on how repeatedly God has proven His faithfulness to me in providing for all of my needs. I recognize the difference between needs and wants. I know that anything that I have thought I needed that He has not yet provided has proven to be something that I do not “actually” need at this time. I have survived without it; obviously, I did not REALLY need it…yet. J Therefore, I just simply thank Him today for meeting my needs and helping me to be mature enough to recognize and accept the difference.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #97

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Though I am constantly growing, as we all are, I am thankful for my ability to stand firm in what I believe and not give in to peer pressure that is in direct opposition to who I am. It is much easier to just go with the flow or go with the crowd than stick out like a sore thumb. However, the further along I get in my faith, I find it much harder to deal with the inner turmoil of knowing that I am going against my own personal convictions. I am grateful for that inner turmoil; it keeps me in check. It is amazing how after you get older and look back on all the pressures you have overcome that you never realized the magnitude of the pressures that would still await you. What is the saying, “New levels, new demons?”

I am just going to leave this tidbit:

And consider the patience of our Lord [His delay in judging and avenging wrongs] as salvation [that is, allowing time for more to be saved]; just as our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you according to the wisdom given to him [by God], speaking about these things as he does in all of his letters. In which there are some things that are difficult to understand, which the untaught and unstable [who have fallen into error] twist and misinterpret, just as they do the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction. Therefore, [let me warn you] beloved, knowing these things beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men [who distort doctrine] and fall from your own steadfastness [of mind, knowledge, truth, and faith], but grow [spiritually mature] in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory (honor, majesty, splendor), both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. (II Peter 3:15-18 Amplified)

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #96

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Billie Blanks, Allie Del Rio Pointer, Jennifer Carman, Jillian Michaels, Alberto "Beto" Perez, Tony Horton, Shawn T, and Leslie Sansone. These have been my “at-home” physical trainers. These are just SOME of the names that have been responsible for helping get me away from and keep me away from that over 200 arena of weight where I once resided. I am SO thankful for the people who have made workout DVDs for women like me who would never bring themselves to commit to being that overweight female in the gym with a bunch of Barbie dolls. It is so fun being able to change up what routine I want to do for the day in the comfort of my own home. In addition, if I am having some rushed mornings where I can’t get my workout in, my physical trainers are on my DVD; no one yelling at me! LOL!

Yes, I am thankful for the little things that are not so little anymore when you are without them!

 

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #95

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I was in the bit of a slump driving home from work last night and I was trying everything to get my thoughts lifted from that place in my head. I was meditating on promises in God’s Word and words that reminded me of who I am. I filled the car with music that would speak to my soul. It was very effective in not allowing me to sink deeper but honestly there was still a bit of heaviness on my mind. I remember looking at the sky thinking, ‘if maybe I could see a little sun…’ Anyway, I got to my driveway, got out of the car to get my mail and noticed mail from a relative whose call I’d been repeatedly missing. I opened it there in my garage and instantaneously the heaviness I felt was like smoke—POOF! It was gone. It’s amazing how the words on a page and a picture can quickly plaster a smile across your face and your heart. All of a sudden, it was like the heaviness I was dragging with me from work seemed so trivial. Perspective—that is what this letter had given me. Just clear and simple perspective. And I’m thankful because I know God sent it at just the right time.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #94

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Today I am just thankful for the favor God has placed on my life with others. That is not arrogance; it is just sincere appreciation for being able to see that when you have invested years of aiming to do what is right in the face of adversity, others are paying attention to your “character.” Sometimes people can say all the “right things” and put on a good front, but when you look at how they are living, something does not quite measure up. So, if God has favored you with others, do not be ashamed to express your gratefulness to God for what He has and is doing in your life. The best way you can express to Him your gratefulness is with how you live your life for Him.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #93

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Today I am just thankful for the simplest things in my life. I appreciate past co-workers who introduced me to my love of candles, particularly scented candles. I am thankful for earrings, especially the hoops when I want a sassy look. I love the classiness of bracelets, especially the “clacking” ones that must annoy certain people because they make a comment about hearing me coming. Note to self—wear the bracelets on Jean Friday that annoy….   Just kidding! I am thankful for beautiful wedge heel shoes; as I get older I am convinced a man designed those shoes that have you on your tiptoe or only the balls of your feet with only a “stick” to prop you up. However, I do still love to wear them on occasion. Most of all, I am thankful for the Holy Spirit that lives on the inside of me, daily recreating me from the inside out. The best gift in life I could ever have.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #92

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I spoke about transparency back on day 79 and my gratefulness for finding it in others. Through the transparency of others, I have received comfort. Through the transparency of others, I have received aid in finding the road to deliverance. When we are transparent, we help people in ways we could never imagine. Because I am “dying every day” to self, my aim in life is to allow God to use me in ways he so chooses without worrying about what others think of me.

Speaking of transparency, maybe this can help someone. How many times have you heard someone say in regards to a relationship, “I didn’t see that side of them when we were dating,” or “I just had no idea what to expect.” I was always a firm believer they had to be lying. That person cannot claim to have the Spirit of God and not know. I can more believe that they knew or had warning but did not want to accept the truth. Some years ago, there was a man that had gripped my heart before I had even met the man in person (we were getting to know each other long distance). Maybe about a month before I met him in person I had a dream about him. It appeared in the dream that he and I were probably standing in a kitchen with moving boxes along with someone at the time I thought to be maybe his mother in the dream. I had never met her. Something very alarming in the dream is that when this beautiful specimen talked I saw he had the tongue of a snake (looks will trip you up). Are you thinking what I think you are thinking? You probably are. Anyway, I kept that dream to myself and just tried to bury it in my subconscious as just something crazy. Within the first year of getting to know him, we had seen each other twice. It was at this point that I was no longer even listening to the Spirit within. I was just rebellious. After about a year, I broke it off because I knew the relationship was just wrong from the beginning; not even considering that crazy dream that still in my mind meant nothing. (The details are perhaps “transparency” for another time. J )

Almost every year he would call (our birthdays were a day apart). You know I was a “back pocket” girl—right? At some point, there was a break in our yearly communication. About 7 years later we started back communicating; I have to admit I was the culprit in reaching out (those spiritual ties are so real—BREAK THEM). After 7 years I took a trip that to my surprise allowed me to meet his sister for the first time—his older sister. Remember the dream with his snake tongue and the woman I just assumed to be his mom? You guessed it! The woman in my dream was his sister! Even then, I still did not want to believe this person was a beautiful specimen of a liar. It was not just the dream, there were plenty of indications but I made excuses because after all on plenty of occasions he said the words, “I love you.” I have told you before that sometimes “Charlotte” annoys the heck out of me. Yes, sometimes I write about myself in the third person. I am a writer—what else do you expect of me? Anyway, after that trip things came to the surface that released me from that 7-year dark spiritual tie. It was as if God said, “Here is my grace showing you the other piece of the puzzle. I am trying to help you. What are you going to do with what I’ve shown you?”

Sadly, people go on to make detrimental life commitments and hold on to, “I didn’t know.” If anyone is transparent with you when it comes to “any” type of decision you are planning to make in life, thank God for them. Not everyone is trying to hide things or make you think they have never had to overcome something.

If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just [true to His own nature and promises], and will forgive our sins and cleanse us continually from all unrighteousness [our wrongdoing, everything not in conformity with His will and purpose].  (I John 1:9 Amplified)

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #91

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Have you ever felt like you were just so out of sort one day and had no idea why? Have you ever felt emotionally drained and like you just needed to hibernate just for a day? Have you ever had a person, or something you read come along at the right time to lift you out of that rut? Yes, I have too. I am thankful for those people and those mediums that are within reach just when I need them. We should really cherish those avenues of encouragement and uplifting. Never take that gift for granted.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #90

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

A couple days ago, I mentioned my father’s death when I was five years old, right? Well, another memory involving my father hit me last night. I remember my mama always referring to him as “Sweetie.” So, of course at that young age I thought that was the man’s name. LOL! He died when I was five so this memory comes from that last year or prior. Yep, I thought “Sweetie” was my dad’s name until one day I heard him call my mama “Sweetie.” Oh Lawd! You mean his name is not Sweetie?? I do not know what went through my mind after this or how I processed it, but I remember my little brain being confused that both their names were “Sweetie.” Though I had my father in my life a very, very short time I’m grateful that I grew up remembering that at one time I thought his name was Sweetie instead of Mother-something, Punk-something or some other derogatory name.

Be thankful for the words your parent(s) planted around you as a child. Not every child has grown up or can grow up without having the wrong things implanted in their little brains. Nevertheless, if you were not so fortunate, what does your child or grandchild hear you call their mom or dad? I am a witness, kids may remember very little that occurred before a certain age in life, but some things do stick.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #89

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

This morning I am thankful for the ability to laugh when to the world I should be crying. This morning I am thankful for the resource “of income” while some trap themselves in discontentment because of the unfavorable resource. This morning I am thankful for the car I have to drive with no car note while some will keep wishing they had the latest model. Today I am thankful because when I look in the mirror I genuinely like the person I see. Sometimes she can be analytical but she is gentle. Sometimes she has less patience than she desires but she is apologetic. Sometimes she will disagree with your view but she is one of the best encouragers you will ever want to meet. At times, she may come across as very quiet and unassuming but she knows herself. Even though sometimes she really annoys the heck out of me, each day I like her just a little bit more because I’m learning more about her. Growing up with her, I had no idea that secretly she was a tough little cookie.

So are you thankful for that reflection you look at every day?

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #88

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Daddy's Glass

I am thankful for each day we have capacity to hold memories of our deceased friends and loved ones.  It will soon be 40 years since my dad died (October 28th) but I still hold the memory of him coming home from work each evening. My older sister and I would run down the hall to the front door where he would enter and jump on him. I remember my mom always serving him his dinner plate on a silver tray in our living room. This was no ordinary tray; I recall etchings of a "paisley-like" design that could be seen and felt on the surface and upraised designed edges. I recall the chair he sat in was next to the one big window in our living room right above the radiator (oh the pain if you accidentally let your skin rest on that thing when it was on during the cold months). One very vivid memory that always stuck with me was a signature glass that she always used to serve him his beverage. The glass always mesmerized me because of the iridescent colors. In my mind, it was “daddy’s glass.” It is funny how I never realized until after daddy died that there were two of these mesmerizing glasses. I was 5 years old when he died so I guess I didn’t know because I was never getting anything out of the cabinet to know what was or wasn’t there. Nevertheless, I do know that I never recalled my mom drinking out “daddy’s glass” or a glass that looked like daddy’s glass.

It was just a few years ago that I was over at my younger sister and mom’s house; we were talking about some memories. I brought up my observation about how that iridescent glass was the only glass from which I saw daddy drink. I also mentioned how I liked the colors and never realized until much later that there were two of these glasses. One of them had gotten broken somehow later after his death. I wondered which one was the glass that belonged to him. Thinking back on it now, they both looked alike so he may have used them both. J Nevertheless, it was not until this conversation that my mom knew the impact of me still seeing this one iridescent glass. She let me have it (tears). I try my best to guard that glass with my life, especially when I drink from it. Thank you Charlie Reen Beard (daddy) for my memories and the glass.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #87

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

All my readers should know that I am thankful for YOU! Yes, all of you who take time to read what I have to write. Everything we do in life impacts something or someone and you should know that about yourself today as you go about your day. Yes, everything you do has an impact. If you do something wrong, there is an impact. If you do something right—there is an impact. So, be thankful that your life does leave an impression. What kind of impression your life leaves is totally up to you. You and I choose what we want our lives to reflect. Whether we want to face it or not we have a great responsibility.

I am so grateful that God entrusts me with the responsibilities that He gives me on a daily basis. Those things that I do in this body while I am wearing the name “Christian” I take very seriously. No, I am not perfect but I believe the “namesake” I wear should be powerful enough to call me to staying in “right standing.” My humanity never gives me the right to forget who I am and lose sight of the picture I am painting with my words. So, thank you! Thank you for allowing my words to take residence in some part of your brain. In addition, if you come across something I write that you find you cannot “chew” hopefully you can eat the fish (the real substance in what I write) and spit out the bones.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #86

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

To have discernment is the ability to see and understand people, things, or situations clearly and intelligently. Without the ability we leave ourselves open to make some detrimental decisions. Some of those decisions could have us making decisions that affect our health. Some decisions affect whether or not we are in the job we should have for whatever period. It can even come down to whether we eat something that is going to have some serious repercussions later. (ha ha!) Sometimes we do not want to disappoint others, so going against our better judgment we will push discernment about the situation aside in favor of not disappointing. That is a bad decision. Nevertheless, those are lessons for learning when the opportunity comes around again. Therefore, I am grateful for the gift of discernment, even when I miss it! In hindsight, it has been a great teacher!

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #85

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

“Making your way in the world today takes everything you’ve got. Taking a break from all your worries, sure would help a lot. Wouldn’t you like to get away? Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your…”

Oh sorry! Hello and good morning to you! I was feeling a little bit of the theme song from that old sitcom—Cheers. Ha ha! I am SO THANKFUL my weekend started yesterday. I had the day all to myself! Honestly, I did not want to be where ANYONE knew my name. Sometimes I do have those days where I feel like I invest too much of the best part of me in the things that matter least to me. Therefore, I am grateful I was able to turn on my lavender aromatherapy Thursday night before I got into bed without worrying about how sound I would sleep. I got 8 hours sleep, my prayer time, full workout, time to complete my online grant writing class for the day along with a quiz. I then hit the bank, went grocery shopping and back home. That leaves me free to visit the House of Raw Elegance this morning, hit the health food store before attending a Young Living Essential Oils party. A little later I will go facilitate a class on growing in prayer, attend an evening service and then I will stop by the fourth anniversary show for Hustle & Flow—The Experience. Full day? Yes, but none of it is work and it what I WANT TO do. J Now, I do not know how long I am going to last at the anniversary show. This woman cannot  run all day and late night like most of these young ones (and some old ones out here pretending).  It is as I was telling my sister-in-love last night, I do not even try to pretend anymore—I am at the stage in life where it is what it is. I surrender! J Nevertheless, I am thankful for my extra day on yesterday that has helped free up my today for what I want. Enjoy yours!

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #84

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I am sure you have heard the saying, “Trust is earned.” Yesterday I heard someone say that his experience has been that you do not earn trust, it is given. I was not too sure I agreed until he broke it down in a number of ways. When we take a new job, we agree to work free until the next payday believing we will receive pay. We visit a doctor we have never seen and when asked to remove our clothes for an examination, we do it. We are given a prescription by people we do not know and dutifully pop those pills or whatever the medication. We get on a plane and buckle our seat belts trusting that someone is in the cockpit. “…Sit back and enjoy your flight ladies and gentlemen. This is a recording.”  Haaaaa! Okay he added that last part of course but it was funny. He gave many examples that had me thinking. His point was that we “give” our trust to a number of things and people UNTIL we are given a reason NOT TO trust in that particular scenario again.

With that said, I am so thankful for those who give me their trust. I have been in many situations where I had not “earned” anyone’s trust, but someone just gave to me. I remember the first time I did the resume of a stranger for pay. Looking back on that first time, I have to admit I wondered if they would trust paying me upfront after our consultation session and getting their resume 1-2 weeks later. Nevertheless, they did trust me based on the referral of a friend. Then there was the first time I decided to start facilitating a class at my church. Would people be like, “who is she?” (It is a very large church) People made a choice to trust me with their time and their ears. In addition, one of my greatest prides—the first time I sold one of my books. Any writer who has not yet made a name for themselves will tell you it is a big deal for anyone to take a leap to buy their book. Well…I will speak for me. It is a big deal for me because it is humbling to me for anyone taking time to read what I have written.

So how are you thankful for the trust that you are given?

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #83

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

There is no doubt that without this, in due time you would begin to feel a great deal of dissatisfaction with life. I mean what would be the point in getting up going to work or doing whatever it is that you do on a daily basis? Life would just be mundane without a sense of “purpose.” I thank God that He gives “purpose” to all our lives. Keep in mind that there can be a fine line with defining purpose as it applies to us individually. Myles Monroe—a prominent figure once said that one of the most tragic things in life is to be successful in the wrong thing. I believe people can easily associate success with purpose but it is not the same. If I spill something on the floor, I might be quite successful with just taking off my jacket and successfully using it to wipe up the spill. However, I have just totally misused the “purpose” for which that jacket was made. Ahhh! See where I am going? So, just ponder that for a bit today. Thank God that you serve “a purpose” like my analogy about the jacket, but let us start purposely (no pun intended) seeking to move into the individual purpose for which we were made. Trust me—I am right there with you. I have been successful in the field of systems analysis but I am aiming to follow the writing path that started in my childhood and has chased me down through life.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #82

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

It was after dark when I got home last night and opened the mailbox to retrieve my mail. Before I could scoop everything out of the box, my heart skipped with hopefulness and a slight smile caused my lips to part at the glimpse of what I thought I was seeing in the darkness. I had been waiting on this for almost six months! I quickly gathered all the mail with my eyes only looking for that envelope with a window. Yep! It was my long awaited federal tax return check! My mind quickly flooded with the thought of thankfulness not just because of the check, but also because of why I had to wait so long.

I will never forget the day I received that letter from the IRS telling me they had to verify my identity before they could process my tax return. It was as if someone had run full speed into me and knocked the wind out my back. I HAD NOT YET FILED MY TAX RETURN! I remember seeing a Lifetime movie that told a horrific story of a woman’s stolen identity. I remember just thinking I hope that never happens to me and slightly borderline that COULD NOT happen to me. Nevertheless, here I was holding a letter that indicated otherwise. I was getting ready to go to church with a flood of thoughts going through my head. While I was driving to church with the flood of thoughts, it was as if God ripped His way into my thoughts, “That social security number is not your identity. That is just a number…I hold your identity…” Honestly, I can tell you from that point until last night I was never flooded with thoughts about my identity or identity theft again, just that I WANTED MY MONEY. I kept thinking, “I bet if I owed money it would not take them this long to TAKE my money.” Nevertheless, I finally got it and I am grateful. So, I will not complain.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #81

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Sleep. That is all—this morning I just thank God for the ability to sleep. It refreshes and it causes you to have more mental clarity when you have exhausted your brain the previous day from trying to figure out something. It causes your body’s internal systems to reset themselves so that your body functions in a more healthy way. Having some health issues? This may not be that simple for every issue—but see if you are depleting your sleep time. I am trying my best to keep up with the amount I get during the workweek. Nevertheless, my homework and thirst to write tends to steal it. J

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #80

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Don’t you just love it when people have known you for a very long time and they have a hard time believing anything anyone would ever say out of character about you because—THEY KNOW YOU? On the other hand, maybe they hold the belief that there is an explanation for why you did or said what you did. It is refreshing when you have those type people in your life who do not jump to the worst conclusions. However, I am more grateful for the ones who have been able to look past my shortcomings and watched my life enough to know the Source of what drives my life. I remember the ones in my youth who have almost like sheltered me from certain things; it was as I had an image that they wanted to protect. Looking back, I see that as so sweet because they were kids just like me. J

What is disheartening is when you meet people who barely know you but they know they like you as a person. Instantly, they find the need to “fix” something about you to make you fit into their world. It is like a person loving an undomesticated animal but they try to make it their personal pet by removing it from its natural habitat. They have absolutely no understanding that the fascination they hold for this animal is “directly tied” to its habitat. Should the person consider living in its habitat? That may seem outlandish when talking about animals, right? I mean seriously, when it comes to people you can accept the qualities you find appealing in that person’s life and find out if you want to commit to following their path. On the other hand, you can accept the realization that you do not want to change and you have to let that person be who they are. Like an animal, you could end up doing more harm than good to think you’re going to get the same qualities in that person if you try changing them to something that makes you more comfortable. Therefore, I am grateful for the people who cross my path and have a firm understanding about themselves without trying to remove me from my spiritual habitat. J After all, I know I would be a hellion if I did not live the life I live or I tried to walk life in sync with someone who was in opposition to who I am. I know WHO I am in Christ. Outside of that—I have had a glimpse into Charlotte and it ain’t pretty. I’m just saying.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #79

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I thank God for people who have enough holy boldness to be transparent when it is necessary. I know this woman could have used a little transparency from the right person. Tammy is a young woman who has lost her way in life. She has been involved with a string of men who have told her lies about their feelings for her only to gain access to her mind and body. She keeps falling for these type men because in her mind the attention spells “l-o-v-e.” The relationship always dissipates on her part every time she can manage to see the truth but she quickly falls for it again when another man of the same caliber comes along. However, two women have crossed her path that recognize the cycle and try to help her live a better life. One woman she met at the gym they both frequent. Through various one-on-one conversations this woman learned of Tammy’s struggle in falling for the wrong men. One day this woman decided to open up to Tammy about her past struggles in relationships and how she is a victim of child molestation. She stressed to Tammy the need to disconnect from the idea of trying to repair a soul that has never existed for anyone. During their times of meeting in social settings outside the gym, this woman was constantly sharing with Tammy how overtime she herself gained peace in life by practicing ethical conduct, discipline and wisdom. She also stressed the benefits of time given to meditation. Intrigued by a woman who opened up to Tammy about some of the most intimate details of her life that held such tragedy, a friendship was unfolding. What intrigued her more was that this woman was using her story to give talks in the schools for troubled girls. Tammy thought there must be something to this life of meditation.

On the other hand, the other woman Tammy met on her job, often tried getting Tammy to come to church with her. Tammy was reluctant due to her pass experiences with church folk. This other woman often had lunch with Tammy and she was always encouraging Tammy. She would share scripture and try to find what related to Tammy’s life to show her what the “love of God was like.” What Tammy did not know is that this other woman had been a Christian practically all her life but had a period of failure at a late point in her life in regards to men. Practically all her dates came from the internet; she felt invisible to men. This “Christian woman” knew what it was to seek worth through the attention of a man. Nevertheless, God gave her a second chance to get a better understanding of all that it meant to be without God and have Him redeem her back. She herself knew what God "IS like." HOWEVER—this woman never told Tammy any of this about herself. She diligently stayed with those scriptures though and tried convincing Tammy of how she could change. She tried her best to stay on the surface with Tammy. After all, some things you have to keep to yourself. You do not want someone bringing up your past when you have long left it. Right?

So, which one of these women you think will win Tammy over? I love transparency, don’t you? I am thankful to God for the scripture that exposes the lives of people like David, Saul who became Paul and others. However, you know what…I want to know that God is working in the lives of believers not just from their B.C. stage of life (their life before they claimed to know Jesus Christ as their Savior) but also in their A.D. (After they became Determined to live for Him). I would say that in the portrayals above, both have equal opportunity to influence Tammy’s life. Sadly, without a miracle I doubt the Christian woman will. Since when did a dead man/woman have a reputation to protect or have to worry about people knowing their business? (rhetorical thought to ponder)

^"For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a slave to everyone, so that I may win more [for Christ]. To the Jews I became as a Jew, so that I might win Jews [for Christ]; to men under the Law, [I became] as one under the Law, though not being under the Law myself, so that I might win those who are under the Law. To those who are without (outside) the Law, [I became] as one without the Law, though [I am] not without the law of God, but under the law of Christ, so that I might win those who are without law. To the weak I became [as the] weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men, so that I may by all means [in any and every way] save some [by leading them to faith in Jesus Christ]. And I do all this for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings along with you." (I Corinthians 9:19-23 Amplified)

 

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #78

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places.

(Ephesians 6:12 Amplified version)

Today’s post is quite different from the past 77 days in our journey of being thankful on purpose. See, right from the start I want to let you know that I am thankful (and you should be as well) for every bit of protection from spiritual attacks when we are in our ignorance and even in the times that WE THINK we have it all together. Before you go thinking I am off my rocker, trust me I am very much sane. Even when I was a child behind my quiet demeanor my waters ran deep, but I was and am very much sane and more in tune with my surroundings than I have been in the past. For some of us who have grown up going to church I feel we can become so flippant with reading and quoting scripture over time that we really do not connect with what we are saying. It can just become a ritual; too institutionalized. What we say may sound so spiritual but there is no real power or sense of genuineness behind what we are saying.

My very first encounter with the spiritual realm (of which I was aware) as it relates to the scripture above was some years ago while I was still living at home. I think I was in my early 20s. I was entering my bedroom and just as I was about to flip the light switch there were two or three (I can only recall 2) dark “somethings” that quickly rushed passed me to exit my bedroom. That is the best way I can describe them because they had no form that I can put into words for you. However, I know they rushed passed me so quickly as if I had interrupted something. I remember telling my mom and I know she did not really believe me; she wanted to reduce it being little mischievous spirits at the most. Uh?? Mischievous or not, I know what I saw and I did not just walk around seeing things like that…EVER. Now, I have to admit that over time I started thinking that maybe my mind was just overactive for some reason but in the back of my mind I could never shake what I saw as just being my mind. Then it happened a month ago… I was watching a broadcast of a woman ministering on TV while I was preparing for work. She was talking about spiritual warfare and she said, “…you’ll come to the point that when you walk into a room your presence will drive demons to run because you’ve entered…” I screamed, “That happened to me! That happened to me!” However, I had never made the connection that I had anything to do with why they were exiting my bedroom so quickly. I was just more in shock for the experience at the time it originally happened.

There is one other spiritual encounter I have to mention. It really drives me to thank God for His grace and mercy in my life. A little background. When I was seven or 8 years old The Book of Revelation drew me; it just fascinated me. It still does today. Also in my youth, I gravitated towards the shows like: Outer Limits, Twilight Zone, Highlander, etc. In my stubbornness, off and on, I would stop watching them; I believe God was having me stay away from them. However, those shows fascinated me! I knew they were not good for my spirit. Just hard headed, until almost a year ago. I watched Fox 2’s Sleepy Hollow. I had been watching every episode and I recorded the ones I might miss. That one night there was this episode where the characters were saying incantations that in my spirit I KNEW (do not ask me how) they were real! I take that back…the Holy Spirit revealed to my inner self that they were real. Nevertheless, I kept watching and listening. After I had gone to bed sometime late in the night I know I was sleep. However, I am telling you my spirit could not have been sleep because I saw a dark silhouette standing on the left side of my bed; one was sitting or standing on the right side of my bed, and a third one was in the far corner of my bedroom near the entrance. It was as if that one did not want to get too close. The two on either sides of my bed were just watching me as if they wanted to do something but could not. I was trying my best to get myself up from sleeping. This was not a dream. I remember jolting up in bed and I quickly turned on my nightstand light. I just stared around the room. I recall it was around three or 3:30 a.m. I could not turn the light off until I went into my living room and found someone teaching the Bible on the television. I left the TV on, went back to my bedroom and closed the door to shut out the light, and then I turned on my radio to the station where I keep it tuned to BOT Radio. I filled my atmosphere with just talk of God’s word. I had no problem falling to sleep. When I woke in the morning I had my doubts about that not being a dream until I was checking my Fit bit for the day online to see my past days activity readings. I WAS SHOCKED to see activity for the same window of time that I had been sleep! I do not sleep walk and I do not wear my Fit bit to bed. So what is your explanation? I had no problem letting my Supernatural, Vampire Diaries, and Sleepy Hollow shows go, along with others that go against the character of being Christ like. Yes, I still have other areas of my life that God is fine-tuning like all my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Nevertheless, we have to be willing to die to self when His mercy is screaming, “let it go!”  (Side note: I’ve been trying to recall the date of that morning because I don’t know why I didn’t print that activity as proof and a reminder!)

Okay…I have said a lot here today. I just felt I had to get that out. God’s grace and mercy reaches further than I could ever imagine. I glory not in who I am but Who He is inside me. “For I consider [from the standpoint of faith] that the sufferings of the present life are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is about to be revealed to us and in us! For [even the whole] creation [all nature] waits eagerly for the children of God to be revealed.” (Romans 8:18-19 Amplified)

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #77

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I want you to reflect back to prior months or prior years for a moment. Can you recall any time where you may have acted out of character or allowed yourself to respond to a negative situation in a way that was less than your potential to respond? Has that been your way your whole life—just being reactive? I am hopeful that as WE have gained wisdom, over time we have become less reactive. In addition, I hope our overall character has improved. Do you think that is another very good reason to be thankful? If nothing else, there is a whole lot more inner peace when we find ourselves growing. Additionally, when we are growing in character it makes our relationships a whole lot richer.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #76

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

What would we do without people who were willing to do the most humbling of jobs? What would our society do if every single person were so proud that no one emptied our garbage or removed our recycling? What if no one wanted to be the one cleaning public restrooms? Imagine being seen cleaning windows in a big corporate office. Someone has to do these jobs. How depressing surroundings would be if no one did them. Therefore, for those who do these jobs I am so very, very grateful. If you encounter a sanitation worker or any other job counted least in this society, smile and say “hi” when you see them.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #75

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I have met people who just go from relationship to relationship without a break in-between, like a bee pollinating a flower. Then, there are the ones who almost every year or two are at a new church because they found something wrong. Alternatively, how about the ones that spend no more than 1 or 2 years on a job because they did not like something (I am wondering how they keep getting these jobs). I still have one more—the one who always starts a new venture but never commits to finishing anything. All of these have one thing in common—lack of commitment. On the other hand, maybe you want to call it lack of endurance. To narrow it down further let us just call it lack of patience. I admit I am growing in the area of being consistently patient in every area of my life but I am thankful that I do not just lack patience all together. To be chronically inpatient I can only imagine would take a toll on anyone’s social life. They cannot wait in line anywhere and you have to witness firsthand their grouchiness about it. They cannot teach you anything unless you are the type to catch-on the first time they show or tell you. In addition, if you are just 5 minutes late to pick them up to go anywhere…let us just say that’s going to be a very awkward and quiet ride. Therefore, thank God for those who are patient with you and try your best to be patient with others.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #74

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Imagine…you wake up in the morning and that deceased loved one is on your mind or that enormous bill you have to pay, or that bad breakup. While you are driving—that thought is rearing its head. You try to distract yourself with television or some other form of entertainment and it is as if the thought is screaming, “I’m not going anywhere! I’m still here!!” All day long, this cloud is above your head. You get ready to go to bed at night and still—this tormenting thought is still plaguing your mind. However, for the grace of God…

Have you ever been through one of these tumultuous episodes? Almost makes you want to do something desperate doesn’t it? Many of us have been there. Times like these make me thankful for the spirit of peace that God gives when we seek it out. However, what about those who just cannot seem to find peace with anything in life? That is a very rough way to live, I would imagine. Yet, many people live unsettled lives on a daily basis. So, if you are one of those who are blessed to know how to live peaceably, thank God for that peace. It does not just come naturally.  Are you thinking, “I would be thankful for peace if I knew what it meant to have it. My life hasn’t had much peace.” Well—let me help you with that:

¹¹ Come, children, listen closely;
I’ll give you a lesson in God worship.

¹² Who out there has a lust for life?
Can’t wait each day to come upon beauty?

¹³ Guard your tongue from profanity,
and no more lying through your teeth.

¹⁴ Turn your back on sin; do something good.
Embrace peace—don’t let it get away!

¹⁵ God keeps an eye on his friends,
his ears pick up every moan and groan.

Psalm 34:11-15 – Message Bible version (compare it to the King James version if you prefer)

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #73

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Let's be honest…is there anyone that when you see them coming, something falls in the pit of your stomach? You try to deal peaceably with them but it is a challenge. Now let us reverse that experience. Do you invoke those feelings in anyone? You hope not, right? Me too! I am grateful for the smile that comes across someone’s face when the person sees me. Does it not make a difference? Who wants to approach someone that is wearing a sour look?

Be grateful for the smiles you experience today. Whether it is the cashier serving you in the grocery store, or the smile you can hear in another person’s voice over the telephone. In addition, let us not forget to give someone the same warmth we crave. If you are like me, you may become so absorbed in what you are doing that you are distracted and do not realize how you look.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #72

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Last night I “turned up” the thermostat! I do not care what the calendar says—this girl was cold as ice! Therefore, I am going to jump right to the point for all the fall and winter lovers—I love the tropical feel. Therefore, I thank God this day for the mind He gifted to make one of the most miraculous things I could ever own—the thermostat! Hallelujah! I am not laughing AND I am very serious.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #71

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

When I first started doing this I thought, “You have got to be kidding me! There is no way that this stuff is having this kind of effect on me.” I had a very rough time getting up in the morning but I thought it was just because I needed to sleep longer. Then I had my younger sister using the stuff for reasons other than why I had been using it. A few days later, she told me, “Charlotte I have to start using that [stuff] right after I get home from work. I cannot wait too close to bedtime because I have a hard time getting up in the morning. What in the world is this stuff Charlotte?!! It is one of God’s non-addictive natural remedies in the form of essential oils—lavender. I do not have a hard time sleeping. I was using it for the calming effects and the impact I thought it would have on my sinuses. Apparently, I did not really believe the claim that lavender helps people to sleep (whether you have a sleeping problem or not). So on the nights where I am not going to have the freedom to sleep as long as I want, I don’t turn on my electric aromatherapy.

So yes, I thank God for remedies found in the nature that He created for which no man can take credit. Oh, they can manufacture and sell but their science cannot create it. They literally cannot make this stuff up!

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #70

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

In beginning of these postings, were you one of those people who thought ‘surely there aren’t that many different things for which to be thankful?’ Examine every detail of your life, and I bet you will find there are indeed many, many things for which to be thankful. If you are doubtful, then feel free to step into my world. Come with me back to the year of 1985. There is one vivid night that sticks out in my mind from that year. My mom, sisters and I had just finished watching TV and we prepared for bed. My mom and younger sister shared a bedroom on the first floor and my older sister and I shared a bedroom on the second floor. To this day, I have no understanding as to why when it is time to go to bed, I find things I need to do before I can wind down and get in the bed. Such was the case that evening. My older sister was in the zone before I even turned off the light and landed in bed next to her. I cannot remember how many minutes I had been laying there in the dark, AWAKE before I heard what sounded like the sound of forceful cracking wood. I do not much recall the sound of the glass; the prying sound of wood is what I remember most. The sound was enough distance away so it could not have been coming from the front door. What was it? We would soon discover it was the backdoor leading to the kitchen. My heart was beating so fast and it was as if I could actually hear the vibration in my own ears. My horrified, 15 year old mind was thinking, “I need my body to quiet down!” I fearfully whispered my sister’s name a few times to wake her out of her sleep. Obviously, she seemed a bit agitated. “Someone’s downstairs,” I said in barely a whisper. I thought she had just gone back to sleep until a few moments later she whispered back, “Someone is down there.” At that point, I do not remember if any other words were spoken much but I know we were both praying. I know I was. Thoughts kept racing through my mind about my mom and younger sister on the first floor as I prayed in silence. It was not before long that I saw what I assume to be a light from a flashlight making its way up the stairs towards us. As I heard the slow creaking on the stairs, I tried my best to silence the possible creaking in our bed that could be caused by me now shifting my body. I was positioning my body so that my back would face the entrance to our bedroom. I had no idea what would happen if whoever was in our house shined that light in my face. No amount of keeping my eyes closed could hide the fact that I was awake. I was beyond faking my face at this point. My heart was racing, my body was frozen still, and my mind was racing with prayer. I thank God I was taught at an early age the importance of a prayer life! Whoever the person was only shined the light into our bedroom; they DID NOT enter! They did not stand there long before they went back down the stairs. It was as if everything went silent after the once again creaking sound of the stairs. My older sister and I did not know if the persons (we knew there were 2) left or if they were still down there. We knew they had left when in a short while my older brother arrived home and called out to us and we in relief yelled back. It was as if my body had instantly broken free of paralysis.

It took months before I could go to sleep with the lights off after that happened. For a while, I had no problem with being the last person getting to bed. Whatever I needed to do could wait until the next day. Nevertheless, I thank GOD that He proved himself faithful to my mom, sisters and me! Women found in their beds at night with no protection of a man in sight? None of us approached…no harm? Nothing but GOD. I have waayy too much for which to thank God. Endless, endless reasons to thank Him. What about you?

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #69

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Imagine living in an era where you have to stand in a long line of people outside the gates of a palace trying desperately to get in. Everyone is desperate to get in because they want to reach the court to present their petition to the king. Some want to plead the case of their loved one locked up in debtor’s prison. Some want favor granted them for the best care of their child’s health. The petitions are endless. The time has come and you are finally the second person in line. Your petition is so great and heavy on your heart, but there is one thing equally as heavy on your heart… You do not know how you are going to get into the gate because you have nothing that the king of this palace would count worthy of letting you through the gate. As tears flow down your face you cannot even bring your mind to think past the gate to the actual court to present your petition. What will you do?

Are not you so glad that there is Someone higher than any earthly king that allows us to—“Enter His gates with a song of thanksgiving, and His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, bless and praise His name.” (Psalm 100:4 Amplified) I also, like how The Message bible version phrases it—“Enter with the password: “Thank you!” Make yourselves at home, talking praise. Thank him. Worship him.” God really does listen but you have to examine your heart before you approach Him. The least we can do is come to Him with a sincere thank you for everything He has already done and is yet doing daily for us. In addition, if you are thanking Him daily but you feel like He is not ever hearing you, then examine your life. God gives us grace. However, don’t you want to live beyond just "grace?"