Category Archives: Growing

affirmation, Blogroll, change, complaining, Enlightenment, Growing, intentional, joy

Be Careful Little Mouth What You Say!

When I was a little boy we used to sing a song in children’s church that went something like this: “O be careful little mouth what you say
O be careful little mouth what you say, For the Father up above
Is looking down in love. So, be careful little mouth what you say…”

In a world inundated with noise, it’s very easy for us to underestimate the profound impact our words can have. Beyond just communication, our words possess the power to shape narratives, inspire change, and influence the course of history. The old saying, “The pen is mightier than the sword,” holds true and is a great reminder of the potency and power of our words.

Think about it: Words are not just symbols; they are vessels of meaning, carrying the weight of our intentions, emotions, and convictions. With a single word we have the ability to convey a multitude of thoughts and ideas. Consider the ripple effect of a kind word or an encouraging phrase – it has the potential to uplift spirits, fostering a positive atmosphere that influences not only the hearer, but also those that come in contact with them. On the flip side, a harsh remark can cut deep, leaving lasting scars on the psyche of those it touches, as well as the ones they touch and come in contact with.

Our words are actually the architects of our reality, constructing the world we live and play in. Words shape our perceptions, influencing how we view ourselves and others. The narratives we create with our language have the unique ability to mold our collective consciousness, define societal norms and shape community values.

Moreover, the words we choose can shape our own destinies. Affirmations, positive self-talk, and the language we use to describe our goals contribute to our mindset and motivation. By consciously selecting empowering words and doing away with negative self talk, we set the stage for personal growth and achievement.

With great power comes great responsibility. Misused or inflammatory language can sow discord and fuel conflict. The digital age has amplified the reach of our words with social media, making it crucial to consider the impact of our online communication. The keyboard can be as influential as the pen, and the words we type can leave lasting impressions on us and others.

In cultivating a mindful approach to language and the power of our words, we unlock the potential to build bridges, foster understanding, and promote positive change.

It starts with awareness – being conscious of the impact our words can have and choosing them with intention rather than carelessness. The power of our words lies not just in their ability to express, but in their capacity to shape the world we live in. So let us wield this power wisely, creating a beautiful masterpiece of dialogue that uplifts, inspires, and unites us all…

affirmation, choices, emotions, Enlightenment, Expectation, faith, God, Gratitude, Growing, ideas, journey, Lessons, life, love, peace, Personal, personal growth, self help, self improvement, spiritual enlightenment, Values, vision

Ten Action Steps To Deal With Heavy Heartedness!

Life is a journey that is filled with moments of joy, triumph, and love, but it can also bring about periods of sadness, grief, and emotional heaviness. When your heart feels burdened, it’s essential to acknowledge those feelings and take proactive steps towards healing and finding the lightness you were created for. In the following pragraphs, we will explore some very practical steps we can take to help ourselves to navigate through the difficult and heavy times of life.

1. ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR EMOTIONS!

The first step towards lightening a heavy heart is recognizing and accepting your emotions. It’s normal to feel sadness, grief, or even anger at times. By acknowledging these feelings, you validate your own experiences and open the door to healing. You have to know the feeling to know why the feeling is there and with this knowledge you will find wisdom in dealing with whatever it is that you have to deal with.

2. PRACTICE SELF COMPASSION!

Be kind to yourself. Treat yourself with the same care and understanding you would offer a close friend. Self-compassion involves acknowledging your pain without judgment and offering yourself support and comfort. We tend to beat up on ourselves and often become our very own worst enemy. Show yourself some love, mercy and grace.

3. SEEK SUPPORT!

Share your feelings with someone you trust, whether it’s a friend, family member, or therapist. Talking about your emotions can provide relief and a fresh perspective. Sometimes, merely expressing what’s on your mind can alleviate some of the heaviness. I have often told folks that I am counseling or coaching that it is important every now and then to “unload the truck”. You were not created to carry everything around with you for always, so unload what you need to, so you can load up with what you really need.

4. ENGAGE IN MINDFUL MEDITATION!

Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, can help you stay present in the moment and reduce stress. Taking time for mindfulness can create a sense of calm, allowing you to process your emotions in a healthier way. I like to refer to this as taking time for SOLITUDE. We need to get quiet, just breathe and learn to enjoy the stillness and silence.

5. EXERCISE AND MOVE YOUR BODY!

Exercise has a profound impact on mental well-being. Engaging in physical activities like walking, jogging, or yoga releases endorphins, which are known as “feel-good” hormones. These chemicals can help alleviate feelings of sadness and promote a sense of well-being. It does not have to be anything hard core, just get up and take a walk outside or take some time to stretch your body out like you used to when you were a kid reaching for the stars.

6. EXPRESS YOURSELF CREATIVELY!

Art, music, and writing can be powerful outlets for processing emotions. Engaging in creative expression allows you to channel your feelings into something tangible, providing a sense of release and relief. God has gifted all of His children with some form of self expression, figure out yours and use it regurlarly.

7. PRACTICE GRATITUDE!

Even during challenging times, there are often small moments of beauty and positivity. Cultivating gratitude by acknowledging and appreciating these moments can shift your perspective and help you find moments of lightness. We often get so distracted by the bad that we fail to appreciate the good. No matter how bad it gets, there is always good. Look for and say thank you for the good, because this redirects your spirit toward God, which is exactly where it needs to be.

8. SET REALISTIC GOALS!

Breaking down your challenges into manageable steps can make them feel less overwhelming. Setting realistic goals and celebrating small achievements can give you a sense of accomplishment and motivation. Figure out what you have to do, make a plan and then do what you can.

9. NURTURE YOUR WELL BEING!

Taking care of your body can have a positive impact on your emotional well-being. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat nourishing foods, and engage in activities that promote relaxation and rejuvenation. Self Care is not a bad thing, it is a necessary thing and if you don’t take care of you, there might not be a you to take care of others.

10. EMBRACE CHANGE AND GROWTH!

Remember that feelings of heaviness are part of the human experience, and they do not define you. In other words: It’s a normal part of life and living. Embracing change and seeking growth through adversity can lead to profound personal development. Do what you can about what you can and then trust God through the rest for His best.

When your heart feels heavy, it’s crucial to remember that you are not alone, and there are ways to find lightness and healing. By acknowledging your emotions, seeking support, and engaging in self-care practices, you can navigate through these difficult moments and emerge stronger and more resilient than ever. Remember, healing is a journey, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time, because your ultimate destination is blessing…

affirmation, choices, God, Growing, Lessons, life, purpose

Finding Your God- Given Purpose!

We live in a world filled with challenges and it is very easy to get so caught up and lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday living. And in this very mixed up place it is very possible and most likely that we will lose sight of the deeper questions that echo within our hearts that are meant to guide us to better and more productive places. Questions like: “Who am I?” “Why am I here?” You know, those fundamental questions about our purpose in life which often lead us on a quest for real meaning and personal fulfillment. Many believe that understanding and embracing our God-given purpose is the key to unlocking a life of true significance and I have to agree that this is the track that we need to be traveling on.

Discover The Source Of Your Purpose:

Our sense of purpose is intricately woven into the very fabric of our existence. For those who believe in a higher power, understanding that they are created by a loving God provides a proper foundation for discerning our unique purpose. This belief suggests that each individual is intentionally designed for a specific role or calling in this grand tapestry of life. This makes sense to me, because when I look around, I see a design and if there is a design, then there must have been a designer.

Unfold Your Unique Talents and Passions:

God endows every individual with a set of unique talents, gifts, and passions. These innate qualities serve as clues to our purpose. When we identify and cultivate these gifts, talents and skills, we often find ourselves naturally gravitating towards activities and pursuits that bring us joy and fulfillment and this is a great indicator of where we can locate and get in touch with our purpose.

Serve Others As Light To Guide You To Your Purpose:

One of the most powerful ways to fulfill our God-given purpose is through service to others. Acts of kindness, compassion, and selflessness not only impact the lives of those we serve but also provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment for ourselves. This principle is echoed in many faith traditions, emphasizing the profound impact of loving our neighbors and is best summed up by the Golden Rule, which states that we should do unto others as we would have others do unto us.

OvercomeChallenges And Navigate Detours:

The journey towards fulfilling our God-given purpose is not usually a straight path, in fact it is often a bumpy road of curvy ups, downs and sideways. Challenges, setbacks, and detours are part of the human experience. It is in these moments of adversity that we can, in fact discover real opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Trusting in God’s plan, even when it seems unclear, can lead to unexpected blessings and a deeper understanding of our purpose.

Live With Intention And Mindfulness:

Living with purpose requires intentionality and mindfulness. It involves aligning our actions, decisions, and priorities with our understanding of God’s calling for our lives. This may mean letting go of distractions, negative influences, or unhealthy habits that hinder our progress towards fulfilling our purpose. The biggest battle you will ever face will be with yourself!

Find Fulfillment Beyond Material Success:

The world today often equates success with material wealth or external achievements. This is why it is extra important to recognize our God-given purpose and how it can lead us to a deeper, more meaningful form of fulfillment. True contentment is not solely found in worldly possessions, but in the knowledge that we are living in accordance with our divine calling by being who God created us to be and by doing what God gifted us to do.

Embrace The Ever-Evolving Journey:

Understanding and embracing our God-given purpose is not a static endeavor. It’s a dynamic, ever-evolving journey that requires openness to growth and change. As we mature and gain new insights, our understanding of our purpose may deepen, leading us to new opportunities for service, learning, and self-discovery. It is not about perfection and getting everything right. It is about learning from our mistakes, sins and failures, so that we are better the next time around.

Live And Learn!

Embracing our God-given purpose is a transformative journey that offer us the invitation to seek a life of meaning, significance, and fulfillment. It calls us to recognize our unique gifts, while using them to serve others with love and compassion, all the while trusting in the divine plan even and most especially in times of uncertainty. As we walk this path, we discover that our purpose is not only a destination but a way of living that brings light and hope to the world around us and this is purpose fulfilled…