I'm not exactly sure why I suddenly decided tonight that I wanted to update my blog. Maybe it's because my family picture was missing two of my children. More so, it has to do with the fact that I feel like I am no longer living in "survival mode". In fact, I left it about 6 months ago, and have gradually been adding things back into my life which I let go of for a time, as well as adding new hobbies and habits that are bringing a lot of joy into my life. I guess I just feel ready and able to add my little bit to the world "out there". So for whatever it's worth....here are ten things I've internalized in the past few years which have changed my life for the better.
- I am created in the image of God, which translates into the fact that I am a creator, just as my Father is. I create my own experiences in this life. And the things that happen with my physical body and in my life are a reflection of the things that are happening inside of me...my thought patterns, my beliefs, etc. I choose from moment to moment whether I create from a place of faith (positivity, hope, optimism) or from a place of fear (doubt, negativity, anger). I accept the role of creator in my own life, and let go of blame, criticism, and judgment. I choose accountability.
- If I have not charity....I am nothing. "...Charity is kind, suffereth long, envieth not, seeketh not her own...etc." We are commanded to "love God with all our hearts" and to "love our neighbor" as ourself . Kindness (charity) begins with me. When I am kind and patient and encouraging with myself, the love and acceptance I feel for who I am naturally flows outward and spills into my feelings for and interactions with others. I read recently that love is an outpouring or overflowing of gratitude. I am grateful to be me. And I am grateful for the wonderful reflections of the love of God I see in the people I love.
- There is energy in everything. Emotion is Energy in motion. Matter is energy. Light is energy. All energy carries a vibration. The words we speak, the thoughts we think, the prayers we offer--our physical bodies-- all carry vibrations. Positive vibrations we create (and surround ourselves with) contribute to health, light, learning, growth, JOY! Negative vibrations we create (or surround ourselves with) contribute to sadness, illness, stuckness, darkness.
- Using positive affirmations is an expression of faith in God, and in testimony of my own Divine Nature.
- Jesus Christ knows and understands me perfectly, which enables Him to give me the support and guidance that best serve me in my learning and growth. People have different natures, or energetic "movements". Understanding an individual's movement fosters feelings of compassion and acceptance in me, and gives me insight as to the best ways I can serve them (especially my children).
- Understanding oneself is invaluable. I have learned that I am personally motivated by fun. Making dinner doesn't have to be a chore for me--especially if I turn up the music and dance while I prepare it, or carve a turtle out of the melon, or arrange the side dishes artistically on each plate.
- Excercise increases my positive energy levels and is actually fun--especially since I found the right type for me (zumba)! It's not something I have to or should do anymore. It's something that I want to do because it makes me feel good. Eating healthy feels amazing! I love myself, therefore I take care of my body by feeding it nourishing foods and excercising.
- The Holy Ghost is absolutely real. Satan is very good at deception and imitation of truth and light, which I have experienced. But he can never imitate the feelings of warmth and peace that fill my heart combined with the clarity and enlightment the Holy Ghost brings to my mind.
- Letting go of my personal "agenda" and offering explicit trust and confidence in Him is the surest way I know to be ready to receive direct answers from God. Specific questions receive specific answers. And if I don't know what to ask, then the best question is :"What question wouldst Thou have me ask?" Prayer is work (just as any form of healthy communication is). It requires respect, honesty, and listening--sincere effort--and yields sweet and fulfilling understanding.
- Happiness comes from knowing who I am, loving who I am, and being who I am.
