A woman without decision of character can never be said to belong to herself.....she belongs to whatever can take captive of her. - John Foster (revised).
As you begin your week, remember to discipline yourself in the things that will bring you great results. Stay focused on what you need to do to get to where you need to be.
Remember that every task, every project, every step, everyday brings you closer to the end.
Go get them!
7/2/12
7/1/12
Selah!
Hello "Selah Sunday"!
Today, we meditate on:
1) This week - it's details, possible challenging moments and ways we will overcome them.
2) Our health - possible improvements we need to make
3) Relationships - open doors; staying humble, being available, etc
..... And other things on your list. :)
Selah!
Today, we meditate on:
1) This week - it's details, possible challenging moments and ways we will overcome them.
2) Our health - possible improvements we need to make
3) Relationships - open doors; staying humble, being available, etc
..... And other things on your list. :)
Selah!
6/30/12
TGIS
Yay, it's Saturday!
Hopefully, where you are is nice enough to do something outdoorsy :).
You've worked hard, now its time to play hard!
It's "silly Saturday", hence, no serious/uptight/non-flexible living today ;).
If you can't have fun on your own, find a friend that'll help you relax and enjoy all of your hard work this week!
Take care RW! Go ahead and rejuvenate!
Hopefully, where you are is nice enough to do something outdoorsy :).
You've worked hard, now its time to play hard!
It's "silly Saturday", hence, no serious/uptight/non-flexible living today ;).
If you can't have fun on your own, find a friend that'll help you relax and enjoy all of your hard work this week!
Take care RW! Go ahead and rejuvenate!
6/29/12
Weekend planning!
As we come to the close of our work week, it's a good time to start thinking of how we will spend the weekend. And who will be a part of it 😊.
As you consider these things, start by being hospitable to a friend at work, a friend outside of work, or a new friend etc. It's a rewarding feeling when you think/care for someone else!
Happy Friday! And happy thoughts! :)
As you consider these things, start by being hospitable to a friend at work, a friend outside of work, or a new friend etc. It's a rewarding feeling when you think/care for someone else!
Happy Friday! And happy thoughts! :)
6/28/12
Oh Thursday!
Today is the official countdown to the weekend day; therefore we need to start things right! ;)
It's "Treat Thursday"; meaning treat yourself to something nice. Whether its a walk outside, or a mani/pedi, or a scoop of your favorite ice cream, or a pair of shoes; listen, you deserve it!
Go treat yourself, and please please please, do it well!
Enjoy!
It's "Treat Thursday"; meaning treat yourself to something nice. Whether its a walk outside, or a mani/pedi, or a scoop of your favorite ice cream, or a pair of shoes; listen, you deserve it!
Go treat yourself, and please please please, do it well!
Enjoy!
6/27/12
Mid week
It's "Winning Wednesday" and we plan on doing just that..... Winning!
(take a deep breath)...... It's mid-week!
Your actions today will confirm your perspective on the last two days; and will also give insight on your motivation level about the next two days.
Stay strong, remain focused and win, win, win!
(take a deep breath)...... It's mid-week!
Your actions today will confirm your perspective on the last two days; and will also give insight on your motivation level about the next two days.
Stay strong, remain focused and win, win, win!
6/26/12
Focus, focus
If you do not know where you are going, you might wind up someplace else - Yogi Berra
Today's challenge: stay focused on your path.
It's very easy to get off course, get distracted, appear busy - and in essence lose focus on the end.
It's "Thriving Tuesday", therefore gladly carry on Monday's legacy. Be bold, brave, courageous and intentional in achieving your goals.
Today's challenge: stay focused on your path.
It's very easy to get off course, get distracted, appear busy - and in essence lose focus on the end.
It's "Thriving Tuesday", therefore gladly carry on Monday's legacy. Be bold, brave, courageous and intentional in achieving your goals.
6/25/12
Mighty Monday
Begin somewhere; you cannot build a reputation on what you intend to do. - Liz Smith
We are off to a new start this week and we come with motivation, determination, drive, trust, self control, and passion!
Remember, you are a leader! Therefore, lead with passion. Plan a week of victory; a week of motivation; a week of learning; and a week of fun!
Happy "Mighty" Monday!
We are off to a new start this week and we come with motivation, determination, drive, trust, self control, and passion!
Remember, you are a leader! Therefore, lead with passion. Plan a week of victory; a week of motivation; a week of learning; and a week of fun!
Happy "Mighty" Monday!
6/24/12
I love Sundays!!!
I love Sundays!
Sunday, for me, is a day of reflection and preparation:
-How was my week? Did I accomplish anything/everything? What would I have done differently?
-What will this week bring? Will I meet all my goals? What adjustments will I make?
It's Selah Sunday; what's on your mind?
Sunday, for me, is a day of reflection and preparation:
-How was my week? Did I accomplish anything/everything? What would I have done differently?
-What will this week bring? Will I meet all my goals? What adjustments will I make?
It's Selah Sunday; what's on your mind?
6/23/12
Oh the weekend!
Finally, the work week is over and the weekend has begun.
This is the day where we do something silly. It's a breather from all the week's seriousness.
To make it more exciting, do something silly with/to someone else.
It's "Silly Saturday"; what are you going to do today?
This is the day where we do something silly. It's a breather from all the week's seriousness.
To make it more exciting, do something silly with/to someone else.
It's "Silly Saturday"; what are you going to do today?
6/22/12
Friday
A good character is the best attitude.
Those who love you and are helped by you will always remember you.
Be friendly and do friendly things. Carve your name on hearts!
Happy "Friendly Friday" folks!
Those who love you and are helped by you will always remember you.
Be friendly and do friendly things. Carve your name on hearts!
Happy "Friendly Friday" folks!
6/20/12
Win, win, win!
I always give 100% at work:
10% - Monday
23% - Tuesday
40% - Wednesday
22% - Thursday
5% - Friday
If this is in fact true, then Wednesday is the day to win, win, win!
10% - Monday
23% - Tuesday
40% - Wednesday
22% - Thursday
5% - Friday
If this is in fact true, then Wednesday is the day to win, win, win!
6/19/12
Thriving Tuesday
With the same zeal & intensity, I welcome Tuesday.
Today comes with the challenge of responsibilities, motivation and drive!
Today challenges the heart of a fighter and questions the ability to thrive!
...Still got it?
Today comes with the challenge of responsibilities, motivation and drive!
Today challenges the heart of a fighter and questions the ability to thrive!
...Still got it?
6/18/12
Hello Monday!
Hello Monday!
I meet you in confidence
Holding on to my integrity
Standing strong by my decisions
Got my own rules and regulations
Open to change and adjustments
Non-compromising on my values
Coming to you with 100%
Ready to lay some strong foundations
Excited about getting this week started
Monday, you're not ready for me!!!!!! :)
I meet you in confidence
Holding on to my integrity
Standing strong by my decisions
Got my own rules and regulations
Open to change and adjustments
Non-compromising on my values
Coming to you with 100%
Ready to lay some strong foundations
Excited about getting this week started
Monday, you're not ready for me!!!!!! :)
6/17/12
Selah
It's always a good idea to plan ahead and prepare for what's coming.
What does this coming week look like? What needs to be in alignment to help you achieve your wins? What types of connections do you need to make? What are your priorities and in what order? .....etc.
Also, how will you handle things emotionally, what is your mental capacity, and what can you take on physically.
Think on these things, as it'll help orchestrate your game plan.
Selah!!
What does this coming week look like? What needs to be in alignment to help you achieve your wins? What types of connections do you need to make? What are your priorities and in what order? .....etc.
Also, how will you handle things emotionally, what is your mental capacity, and what can you take on physically.
Think on these things, as it'll help orchestrate your game plan.
Selah!!
6/16/12
Silly day
Hey there! Happy weekending!
Guess what.... It's Saturday....and that means no more seriousness :).
It's the day of the sillies. What are you gonna do?
Let it go and get your silly on! Enjoy today my friends :)
Guess what.... It's Saturday....and that means no more seriousness :).
It's the day of the sillies. What are you gonna do?
Let it go and get your silly on! Enjoy today my friends :)
6/15/12
TGIFF
TGIFF - Thank God its Friendly Friday!
Congratulations on surviving this week at work! Now, time to do something different! :)
End of the workweek challenge: You work with them, have lunch beside them, process information with them etc; it's time to surprise them. Your task is to do something nice for a fellow colleague or co-worker!
Have fun being friendly and doing friendly things! :)
Happy Friday folks!
Congratulations on surviving this week at work! Now, time to do something different! :)
End of the workweek challenge: You work with them, have lunch beside them, process information with them etc; it's time to surprise them. Your task is to do something nice for a fellow colleague or co-worker!
Have fun being friendly and doing friendly things! :)
Happy Friday folks!
6/14/12
Treat Thursday!
If your week has been like mine, then you've been going going going!
My biggest challenge has always been taking a little timeout for me. Though this is hard, its equally necessary.
So.... If you could take a little timeout for you: what would you do?
:) "Treat yourself today".... Happy Thursday RW!
My biggest challenge has always been taking a little timeout for me. Though this is hard, its equally necessary.
So.... If you could take a little timeout for you: what would you do?
:) "Treat yourself today".... Happy Thursday RW!
6/13/12
Mid week loving :)
Mid-week devotion;
It is Wednesday and it's mid-week. It's very easy (today) to give everything just a little tiny bit of your energy....being that you have been working so hard all week.....BUT you won't, right?
It doesn't matter how bad you feel or how bad it looks, everything you set your hands to deserves 100% of your time, commitment, attention and heart.
Watch out Wednesday, we are here to win!
It is Wednesday and it's mid-week. It's very easy (today) to give everything just a little tiny bit of your energy....being that you have been working so hard all week.....BUT you won't, right?
It doesn't matter how bad you feel or how bad it looks, everything you set your hands to deserves 100% of your time, commitment, attention and heart.
Watch out Wednesday, we are here to win!
6/12/12
The day after Monday....
Today's focus: Thrive!
Be willing to continue with the same (beginning of the week's) intensity, zeal and passion to see things through....and to get things done!
The pressure is on and guess what....you can deliver!
Pace your actions...it's "Thriving Tuesday".
Be willing to continue with the same (beginning of the week's) intensity, zeal and passion to see things through....and to get things done!
The pressure is on and guess what....you can deliver!
Pace your actions...it's "Thriving Tuesday".
6/11/12
Monday!
Mondays are awesome! It is the first door of the week that lures you into a world of great possibilities.
It is your responsibility; however, to pace yourself, decide on your long/short term goals for the week and keep an open mind for adjustments....if needed :)
Mighty Monday, here I come!
It is your responsibility; however, to pace yourself, decide on your long/short term goals for the week and keep an open mind for adjustments....if needed :)
Mighty Monday, here I come!
6/10/12
What a week.... Sunday ... Yay!
What a week, right?
Here is your Selah Sunday moment; where you stop for a little bit, breathe, and spend some good time meditating.
Reflect on your past week, the upcoming week, the direction you are going in, your priorities, your responsibilities, your expectations of yourself, everyone else's expectations of you, your desires, your needs, your wants, your to-do's ...must do's...can't do's...shouldn't do's... etc.....
Think on these things ...
Here is your Selah Sunday moment; where you stop for a little bit, breathe, and spend some good time meditating.
Reflect on your past week, the upcoming week, the direction you are going in, your priorities, your responsibilities, your expectations of yourself, everyone else's expectations of you, your desires, your needs, your wants, your to-do's ...must do's...can't do's...shouldn't do's... etc.....
Think on these things ...
6/9/12
It's Saturday'
Sometimes, its ok to be silly. Silliness keeps your heart young.
It's Silly Saturday - do something silly: something out of the ordinary for you
:)
It's Silly Saturday - do something silly: something out of the ordinary for you
:)
6/7/12
Hard to believe :)
Happy Thursday!
I actually did something nice for myself last week as promised! :).... Though it was a weird feeling, it was nice :).
Usually, when I do something for me, I also do something for the hubby and the kids - its only natural. But this time, I didn't - hence the weirdness!
After a hard long week of thinking and doing for others ......... It's "Treat Thursday" - what are your plans for you?
Enjoy!
I actually did something nice for myself last week as promised! :).... Though it was a weird feeling, it was nice :).
Usually, when I do something for me, I also do something for the hubby and the kids - its only natural. But this time, I didn't - hence the weirdness!
After a hard long week of thinking and doing for others ......... It's "Treat Thursday" - what are your plans for you?
Enjoy!
6/6/12
Oh....Wednesday
It's mid-week, a.k.a "Winning Wednesday".
Congratulations on surviving Monday's directive and Tuesday's urgency. :)
You should start seeing some results today. This is the day that separates the pressure of the beginning of the week from the relaxation of the end of the week.
Almost there! Win big :)
Congratulations on surviving Monday's directive and Tuesday's urgency. :)
You should start seeing some results today. This is the day that separates the pressure of the beginning of the week from the relaxation of the end of the week.
Almost there! Win big :)
6/5/12
Monday part B!
In my book, Tuesday should be called Monday Part 2; Part B or the 2nd Monday. I say this because Tuesday is just as hardworking as Monday was. Everything that wasn't accomplished yesterday, hopefully will be today!
Stay focused on your plan(s) for this week. Don't let small distractions come in between your start and finish lines!
It's Tuesday, ..... Thrive!
Stay focused on your plan(s) for this week. Don't let small distractions come in between your start and finish lines!
It's Tuesday, ..... Thrive!
6/4/12
To do!
It doesn't matter how busy your weekend was....Monday is without a doubt just around the corner and it bears its mental and emotional weight of several to-dos :).
"Mighty Monday" gets you in the mood of setting your weekly goals. Trust your instinct, gain your motivation, be deliberate in making sound decisions and closing out your tasks; and you will be sitting right on top!
Plan strong!
"Mighty Monday" gets you in the mood of setting your weekly goals. Trust your instinct, gain your motivation, be deliberate in making sound decisions and closing out your tasks; and you will be sitting right on top!
Plan strong!
6/3/12
What?.....meditation?
Hey there! It's Selah Sunday! This is where we spend a little time in meditation.
Simple questions to ponder on:
What has the past week been about?
Was it what you expected?
Did you meet all your professional goals?
How about the non-professional ones?
What items will you carry over to this coming week?
What will you do differently? Or keep the same?
What drives you?
What direction will your desires, your strengths and your motivations take you this week?
Selah, my friends :)
Simple questions to ponder on:
What has the past week been about?
Was it what you expected?
Did you meet all your professional goals?
How about the non-professional ones?
What items will you carry over to this coming week?
What will you do differently? Or keep the same?
What drives you?
What direction will your desires, your strengths and your motivations take you this week?
Selah, my friends :)
6/2/12
It's time to be .....
Today's challenge:
Do something silly, something you won't naturally do on your own, something out of the ordinary.
After a long week of expectations, demands, seriousness, decisions etc... You can use some silliness in your life :)
Happy Silly Saturday!
Do something silly, something you won't naturally do on your own, something out of the ordinary.
After a long week of expectations, demands, seriousness, decisions etc... You can use some silliness in your life :)
Happy Silly Saturday!
6/1/12
A nice day!
It's Friendly Friday; which means you get to do something friendly and something nice for a friend.
This simple act of kindness can be towards an existing friend or towards a new friend.
It's good to be nice to someone else; it opens up a window of blessings and opportunities on your behalf!
Happy Friday!
This simple act of kindness can be towards an existing friend or towards a new friend.
It's good to be nice to someone else; it opens up a window of blessings and opportunities on your behalf!
Happy Friday!
5/31/12
What a treat!!!!
So.... Last week, I did say that I was going to treat myself to a pedicure BUT I ended up getting too busy and forgot about it! ... Unfortunately!
However, it's "Treat Thursday" AND I am going to do a me-thing today :)..... I certainly deserve it.... Indeed!
What about you? What's on your calendar
for you today?
Go treating! :)
However, it's "Treat Thursday" AND I am going to do a me-thing today :)..... I certainly deserve it.... Indeed!
What about you? What's on your calendar
for you today?
Go treating! :)
5/30/12
My winning Wednesday
No matter how your week started; smile, knowing that you are already a winner! :)
Hopefully, you should start to see some progress from all your efforts and input.
"Winning Wednesday" comes with a gift. It allows you to evaluate your success at this point; permits you to re-group if necessary, and pats you on the back for a good job well done!
Happy Wednesday! :)
Hopefully, you should start to see some progress from all your efforts and input.
"Winning Wednesday" comes with a gift. It allows you to evaluate your success at this point; permits you to re-group if necessary, and pats you on the back for a good job well done!
Happy Wednesday! :)
5/29/12
It's Tuesday!!!
Thriving Tuesday this week (for some), is like a "maybe Monday".
The good news is that this is a short week; therefore focus concentrated.
Be brave in tackling the hard goals
Be strong in pressing through
Be open to new ideas and direction
Be the "captain" of your choices!
The good news is that this is a short week; therefore focus concentrated.
Be brave in tackling the hard goals
Be strong in pressing through
Be open to new ideas and direction
Be the "captain" of your choices!
5/28/12
Happy Monday!
Though today is a non-working day for some of us; it's still important to set your pace for the week. It is Mighty Monday, plan wisely!
5/27/12
Selah Sunday
What a week this has been, right?
Personally, I was able to tackle on some physical tasks, make some mental decisions, manage some emotional stress, and get a little bit of rest.
But what I did not do is have some ME time..... I need to get better at this one :). This, I will need to roll it over to next week!
Its Selah Sunday; therefore take a little time and meditate on your past week, meditate on your upcoming week. Think about the direction you will take on some things. What items will rollover for you, if any.
Selah :)
Personally, I was able to tackle on some physical tasks, make some mental decisions, manage some emotional stress, and get a little bit of rest.
But what I did not do is have some ME time..... I need to get better at this one :). This, I will need to roll it over to next week!
Its Selah Sunday; therefore take a little time and meditate on your past week, meditate on your upcoming week. Think about the direction you will take on some things. What items will rollover for you, if any.
Selah :)
5/26/12
Saturday's challenge!
Today's challenge:
Do something silly; something out of the ordinary ...
Hmm... I wonder what it'll be!
It's "Silly Saturday"'
Do something silly; something out of the ordinary ...
Hmm... I wonder what it'll be!
It's "Silly Saturday"'
5/25/12
Happy Friday
One of my good sister-friends gets very excited when Friday comes along. I think she gets it that Friday brings rest, fun, and signifies the end of serious business.
She is right!
It is "Friendly Friday". Today, for a change, you get to do something nice for someone else.....for a friend.
This shouldn't be difficult, right?
She is right!
It is "Friendly Friday". Today, for a change, you get to do something nice for someone else.....for a friend.
This shouldn't be difficult, right?
5/24/12
Treat Thursday
Almost the end of your work week, therefore you deserve something personal.
It is "Treat Thursday"
That means, it's ok to treat yourself to something nice today.
Yes, it is! Enjoy your treat :)
It is "Treat Thursday"
That means, it's ok to treat yourself to something nice today.
Yes, it is! Enjoy your treat :)
5/23/12
Winning Wednesday
.....and you have made it to "Winning Wednesday"
You should start seeing some results today.
It's the middle of the week and you are almost there!
Today, you can close the beginning of the week items and open up the end of the week file.
Get on it :)
You should start seeing some results today.
It's the middle of the week and you are almost there!
Today, you can close the beginning of the week items and open up the end of the week file.
Get on it :)
5/22/12
Healthy relationships
This is an interesting article on relationships.
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/emotional-fitness/200909/10-basic-truths-about-keeping-your-relationship-healthy
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/emotional-fitness/200909/10-basic-truths-about-keeping-your-relationship-healthy
Thriving Tuesday
Thriving Tuesday:
Although the pressure of the end of the week isn't quite upon you yet, the continuity of Monday is still fresh on your goal radar.
Therefore, stay focused on your week. Small distractions are common today: don't let them take you off course
Thrive!s
Although the pressure of the end of the week isn't quite upon you yet, the continuity of Monday is still fresh on your goal radar.
Therefore, stay focused on your week. Small distractions are common today: don't let them take you off course
Thrive!s
5/21/12
Mighty Monday, here we go!
Mighty Monday, here we go!
It is time to set your weekly goals. Some may be realistic and others may not, thats ok - set them anyhow. And then see what's feasible, right?
Be deliberate in achieving them or they will always remain in your head and/or on paper.
Remember, it's only Monday....so spread out your pace, and don't beat yourself up in one day!
Happy setting!
It is time to set your weekly goals. Some may be realistic and others may not, thats ok - set them anyhow. And then see what's feasible, right?
Be deliberate in achieving them or they will always remain in your head and/or on paper.
Remember, it's only Monday....so spread out your pace, and don't beat yourself up in one day!
Happy setting!
5/20/12
It's Selah Sunday!
Time to reflect on your past week, and meditate on your upcoming week.
Think about the direction you are going in and what things you would like to accomplish this week.
Also, spend some quality time with people
Selah..
Think about the direction you are going in and what things you would like to accomplish this week.
Also, spend some quality time with people
Selah..
5/19/12
Happy Weekending!
Its Silly Saturday - do something silly today: something out of the ordinary for you!
Happy weekending!
Happy weekending!
5/18/12
Hey y'all! It's Friendly Friday!!
Its the day we do something nice for a friend.
Or: (ideas)
-meet a new friend.
-be a good Samaritan.
-take a friend to get a mani/pedi
-spend time with someone.
-send flowers to a friend
Etc....
Make it happen ladies! And share your story with us :)
Happy Friday!
Or: (ideas)
-meet a new friend.
-be a good Samaritan.
-take a friend to get a mani/pedi
-spend time with someone.
-send flowers to a friend
Etc....
Make it happen ladies! And share your story with us :)
Happy Friday!
5/17/12
Treat Thursday
RW, today is "Treat Thursday". Treat yourself to something nice!
Don't forget to share your experience via FB, twitter or email me at arighteouswoman@ymail.com
Treat yourself right! :)
Don't forget to share your experience via FB, twitter or email me at arighteouswoman@ymail.com
Treat yourself right! :)
5/2/12
Doing things with intention
Hello ladies,
Hope you are all having a great week!
Starting next week, (in addition to the occasional blogs), you will be receiving daily notes from me via Facebook, Email/Text and Twitter; regarding our health, our time, our decisions and more.
While we all have a million things happening in our lives, I encourage you to take 5mins out of your day to practice these short personal activities. It'll help keep things in perspective for you (I hope) :).
Happy Wednesday!
Hope you are all having a great week!
Starting next week, (in addition to the occasional blogs), you will be receiving daily notes from me via Facebook, Email/Text and Twitter; regarding our health, our time, our decisions and more.
While we all have a million things happening in our lives, I encourage you to take 5mins out of your day to practice these short personal activities. It'll help keep things in perspective for you (I hope) :).
Happy Wednesday!
4/28/12
The Geek’s Guide to Getting Almost Anything for Free
Does it pay to be Internet savvy? Yes. In more ways than many people imagine. Sure, the Internet is a great way to research just about anything you could ever want to know about; and it’s an outstanding communication, marketing, and entertainment tool. But the Internet can also save you a boatload of money. And we’re not just talking 10 cents off here and there. We’re talking free (and nearly free) stuff.
Want proof? Here are a few of the sites where a host of free goods are lurking, ripe for the taking
1. Craigslist’s Free Section: Looking for a computer desk? How about a sofa, kids toys, electronics, office supplies, landscaping materials or lumber? These are just a few of the hundreds of items listed in a single day in most any city’s Craigslist free section. People are generally honest about the condition of the stuff they’re listing, and many have pics, so you can see for yourself. If you’re a “Mr./Ms. Fix-It” type, you’ll be in heaven. But even if you aren’t, you’ll be surprised at the kinds of things people are giving away. Look for the FREE listings under the “For Sale” section of your local Craigslist board
2. Freecycle: Much like Craigslist, Freecycle is powered by the people and rooted in a belief that it is better to give items a second life, rather than filling up landfills and creating more stuff. Folks can list anything they have to give away, and others can browse the goods to find what they want. And, like Craigslist, you’ll find a ton of great free stuff through Freecycle. Unlike Craigslist, Freecycle is run through Yahoo! Groups, and you have to join your local group before you can give or get stuff. This makes it a little more of a process to find and list items, but advantage of this process is that it’s moderated, and people can communicate with the community at large. This reduces the likelihood of people listing garbage and describing it as treasure.
3. TotallyFreeStuff.com: Now we get into the realm of samples, coupons, and rewards. You might have to actually do something to get the free stuff listed at TotallyFreeStuff.com, but most of it is pretty simple. From just supplying an email address (have you set one up just for this kind of stuff?), to taking a survey, or visiting a website, the requirements are laid out for each offer and are all simple for the most part. They have some good stuff too – like a free sample of the latest Doritos flavor, a free 1-year subscription to SPIN magazine, or a Uniball smearless pen. Offers are submitted and rated by users, so you have a pretty good idea of what’s worth looking at before wasting a lot of time
4. Yes All 4 Free: This site is similar to TotallyFreeStuff.com, but laid out in a very easy to browse format and with more detailed descriptions of all the offers. Check them out for free samples, coupons, and rewards.
Does it pay to be a bit of a geek? You bet it does. So, get your geek on, and fire up the laptop and get some free stuff. If you have other examples of sites you use to get free or nearly free stuff, we’d love for you to share them in the comments section.
Matthew Toren is a serial entrepreneur (Co-founded YoungEntrepreneur.com), mentor, investor and award winning Co-Author of Kidpreneurs (Basic Principles of Entrepreneurship for Kids). He owns Blogtrepreneur.com and writes for Contently.com
Want proof? Here are a few of the sites where a host of free goods are lurking, ripe for the taking
1. Craigslist’s Free Section: Looking for a computer desk? How about a sofa, kids toys, electronics, office supplies, landscaping materials or lumber? These are just a few of the hundreds of items listed in a single day in most any city’s Craigslist free section. People are generally honest about the condition of the stuff they’re listing, and many have pics, so you can see for yourself. If you’re a “Mr./Ms. Fix-It” type, you’ll be in heaven. But even if you aren’t, you’ll be surprised at the kinds of things people are giving away. Look for the FREE listings under the “For Sale” section of your local Craigslist board
2. Freecycle: Much like Craigslist, Freecycle is powered by the people and rooted in a belief that it is better to give items a second life, rather than filling up landfills and creating more stuff. Folks can list anything they have to give away, and others can browse the goods to find what they want. And, like Craigslist, you’ll find a ton of great free stuff through Freecycle. Unlike Craigslist, Freecycle is run through Yahoo! Groups, and you have to join your local group before you can give or get stuff. This makes it a little more of a process to find and list items, but advantage of this process is that it’s moderated, and people can communicate with the community at large. This reduces the likelihood of people listing garbage and describing it as treasure.
3. TotallyFreeStuff.com: Now we get into the realm of samples, coupons, and rewards. You might have to actually do something to get the free stuff listed at TotallyFreeStuff.com, but most of it is pretty simple. From just supplying an email address (have you set one up just for this kind of stuff?), to taking a survey, or visiting a website, the requirements are laid out for each offer and are all simple for the most part. They have some good stuff too – like a free sample of the latest Doritos flavor, a free 1-year subscription to SPIN magazine, or a Uniball smearless pen. Offers are submitted and rated by users, so you have a pretty good idea of what’s worth looking at before wasting a lot of time
4. Yes All 4 Free: This site is similar to TotallyFreeStuff.com, but laid out in a very easy to browse format and with more detailed descriptions of all the offers. Check them out for free samples, coupons, and rewards.
Does it pay to be a bit of a geek? You bet it does. So, get your geek on, and fire up the laptop and get some free stuff. If you have other examples of sites you use to get free or nearly free stuff, we’d love for you to share them in the comments section.
Matthew Toren is a serial entrepreneur (Co-founded YoungEntrepreneur.com), mentor, investor and award winning Co-Author of Kidpreneurs (Basic Principles of Entrepreneurship for Kids). He owns Blogtrepreneur.com and writes for Contently.com
4/26/12
Love
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor serving the Lord. ~ Romans 12:9-11
This scripture is clear. If you are going to love someone, then be sincere about it. And in that sincerity, comes vulnerability, honestly, loyalty, care etc. It wouldn't be real if these things are not accompanied with your compassion for someone.
In this age we live in, we are taught to think of ourselves first, consider our thoughts first, look out for your protection first and so on and so on. But its clear in the bible that we are to do otherwise, why? Because God takes care of us and our demonstration of our love for our fellow brethren is important for others to see....this is what changes lives. NO ONE is going to change their live based on how much you love yourself, or how much you buy things for yourself, or how much your status elevates, BUT lives are touched around you because of how and what you do for someone else.
We have got to get better at this ladies.... :)
Love builders:
Pick someone this week and do something nice for them.
4/25/12
How to Read Body Language
How to Read Body Language to Reveal the Underlying Truth in Almost Any Situation
http://www.stumbleupon.com/to/s/1gXcqk
http://www.stumbleupon.com/to/s/1gXcqk
3/31/12
A Consecrated Life
by Joyce Meyer - posted March 31, 2012
Unto You, O Lord, do I bring my life. —Psalm 25:1
I love to lift up my hands in the morning and pray the prayer of consecration found in the verse for today. I actually say the words, “Unto You, O Lord, do I bring my life.” This really defines consecration—complete, voluntary surrender to the Lord. In a prayer of consecration, you are saying to Him:
“Here I am, God. I give myself to You. Not just my money, but myself. Not just one hour on Sunday morning, but myself. Not just a portion of my day, but myself. Unto You, O Lord, do I bring my entire life. I lay it before You. Do what You want to do with me. Speak to me and through me today. Touch people through me today. Make a difference in my world through me today. I am not an owner of anything; I’m a steward. Everything I am and everything I have has come from You and is available to You today.”
When we consecrate something, we set it apart for God’s use. Therefore, when we consecrate our lives, we turn our backs on our fleshly desires, worldly values, carnal thinking, undisciplined living, bad habits, and everything else that does not agree with God’s Word.
We close our ears to the noise of the world and open them to the voice of God. We intentionally put distance between ourselves and ungodly things, so we are prepared and available for God to use us. Consecration is not easy, but it is worth the discipline and the sacrifice it requires.
God’s word for you today: Say to God, “Here I am,” today.
Unto You, O Lord, do I bring my life. —Psalm 25:1
I love to lift up my hands in the morning and pray the prayer of consecration found in the verse for today. I actually say the words, “Unto You, O Lord, do I bring my life.” This really defines consecration—complete, voluntary surrender to the Lord. In a prayer of consecration, you are saying to Him:
“Here I am, God. I give myself to You. Not just my money, but myself. Not just one hour on Sunday morning, but myself. Not just a portion of my day, but myself. Unto You, O Lord, do I bring my entire life. I lay it before You. Do what You want to do with me. Speak to me and through me today. Touch people through me today. Make a difference in my world through me today. I am not an owner of anything; I’m a steward. Everything I am and everything I have has come from You and is available to You today.”
When we consecrate something, we set it apart for God’s use. Therefore, when we consecrate our lives, we turn our backs on our fleshly desires, worldly values, carnal thinking, undisciplined living, bad habits, and everything else that does not agree with God’s Word.
We close our ears to the noise of the world and open them to the voice of God. We intentionally put distance between ourselves and ungodly things, so we are prepared and available for God to use us. Consecration is not easy, but it is worth the discipline and the sacrifice it requires.
God’s word for you today: Say to God, “Here I am,” today.
3/27/12
All about your menstrual cycle
Menstrual Cycle - All About Menstrual Period from WomansDay.Com - Woman's Day
http://www.stumbleupon.com/to/s/2EZw9y
http://www.stumbleupon.com/to/s/2EZw9y
2/29/12
Now or Later
If you had to choose between these two scenarios; which would you prefer?
A) Get $100,000 today; save it, knowing that in 3yrs, you'd be broke for a year.
OR
B) Go through 2yrs of lack; and get the $100,000 then.
It's interesting to see your perspective on this.
A) Get $100,000 today; save it, knowing that in 3yrs, you'd be broke for a year.
OR
B) Go through 2yrs of lack; and get the $100,000 then.
It's interesting to see your perspective on this.
2/20/12
Approaching the Bible in today's modern world
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. - New Living Translation (NLT) 2 Timothy 3:16
Here are a few tips that can help us maintain a healthy vibrant relationship with God through His Word:
- Pray First: Before reading, ask God to speak to you through His Word and to prepare your heart for what He says
- Try Different Versions: While its essential to study with the King James Version, its certainly ok to find an easy-to-understand version that best speaks to you - for reading.
- Listen: Audio versions of the Bible are easy to get too. Listen while you drive, exercise etc.
- Try a Plan: Pick a plan and stick with it.
- Dedicate Specific Time: Give God the best of your day, whether that's the first thing in the day, or in the evening, or even the midday.
- Take Notes: Take notes to write questions or answers that come up as you read.
- Share: Connecting with others to share what you are learning reveals insights you can't get alone.
- Keep Going: If you miss a day, don't quit. Simply pick it back up, open your heart and let God continue to speak to you.
2/14/12
Out of control
What do you do when you find yourself in a situation that is long, hard, and out of your control?
How do your emotions play out?
You sit, pray, and watch God work. It is at these times that God desires our presence more than ever.
We typically want more of God when we face these times but also, God desires more of us too. He yearns for us just as much!
Ladies, these moments are opportunities for us to draw nearer and closer to the Father. Not just for answers or an explanation to our situation but to demonstrate our trust, surrender our weaknesses, and gain His ultimate strength.
Sit back and watch what God can do!
How do your emotions play out?
You sit, pray, and watch God work. It is at these times that God desires our presence more than ever.
We typically want more of God when we face these times but also, God desires more of us too. He yearns for us just as much!
Ladies, these moments are opportunities for us to draw nearer and closer to the Father. Not just for answers or an explanation to our situation but to demonstrate our trust, surrender our weaknesses, and gain His ultimate strength.
Sit back and watch what God can do!
1/17/12
Fugitive of a Hardened Heart
This scripture gives us the reason for our blindness in seeing the glory of God in our own lives:
Hebrews 12:14-15 Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.
We can make the false assumption that the secret sin of jealousy is contained to our thoughts, hidden away from others. Scripture assures us that this is not the case. The moment we detect the bitterness of jealousy entering our thoughts, we must take those thoughts captive and make them obedient to Christ. If we do not, we are in danger of not seeing the Lord. We must intently examine our thought lives, to ensure there is no place for a bitter root to grow.
Heart Builders:
- How has jealousy made you fugitive, either as its perpetrator or its victim?
1/4/12
And....Happy New Year
So, the year has infact began, thank God. If your life is as busy as mine tends to get, then you know that the pace isn't any slower yet, the challenges are still greater, the work load is much tougher, and the prayer list has gotten longer....but the real question is: has our faith become stronger? How about our trust in God?
I am learning daily that faith is not just reading about its great work, but its about living in its great principle. Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of what's unseen. Some of us have heard this so many times that it's not as real as the first couple of times we actually heard it. But ladies, I don't know about you but God has a way of bringing me back to perspective and reminding me that He is God and noone else is.
I want to encourage you today and for the rest of this month to really position your heart to believe God for absolutely ANYTHING....because really and truly...HE CAN DO ALL THINGS. I can testify of this first-hand. If we can do this together as women for the month of January, we can set the faith/miracle tone for the rest of the year for our needs, our family's needs, our friends, etc...
Never give up!
Don't believe the lie that great things happen to others and not you! You too are a partaker of God's blessings, so take it, receive it, walk in it, breathe it and see God move on your behalf!
Be blessed Righteous Woman!
Faith Builders:
- Do you believe God can do anything?
- What areas are you believing God for?
12/19/11
2011 Countdown
The end of the year is vastly upon us and it's getting tiring, exciting, busy, costly, crowded, fun etc. One of the things that I try to do each year, about this time - is pace myself, spend what I really need to and not get too excited when I slam into a sale! :) That's always so so hard, because you know how it is, you go to the store looking for a gift for someone else and VOILA - you run into something on sale that you want and the battle begins... lol.
For our family, we try to keep it fun and exciting each year. One year, we went to out of town for Christmas and didn't get gifts for anyone - instead we spent time with each other; another year, we did the gift exchange thing; and another year, we made a wish list of 3 things that we want and each person had to pick/purchase one. This year, we decided to buy $10 gifts for each person. This is HARD! But the deal is that we have to keep it creative and fun!
So, whatever it is that you, your family, your friends are doing....remember to pace yourself, keep it fun, don't spend next year's money this year if you can help it, stay within your budget, remember the reason for the season, have lots of family time, stay healthy, go to church :), be thankful for what you do have, and look forward to next years blessings.
Be good!
12/5/11
Relationships Take Time
There's so much more we need to learn about growing in relationships. And it takes time.
- Have you ever felt that your relationships should be better faster?
- Why is it so hard to be patient as relationships develop?
11/30/11
Apple Juice Arsenic
Forwarded by Lynn W...
Nov. 30, 2011
An investigation into trace amounts of arsenic found in bottled juice has prompted advocacy group Consumers Union to urge the Food and Drug Administration to lower its standards for arsenic levels in juice drinks.
The results of the study released Wednesday indicate that 10 percent of juices tested had total arsenic levels greater than the FDA's standard for drinking water of 10 parts per billion (ppb), while 25 percent of juices also had lead levels higher than the FDA's bottled water limit of 5 ppb.
Consumer Reports tested 88 samples of popular brands of grape and apple juice sold in the United States, including Mott's, Minute Maid and Welch's. Most of the arsenic detected in Consumer Reports' tests was a type known as inorganic, which is a human carcinogen.
The testing and analysis has led Consumers Union, the advocacy arm of Consumer Reports, to urge the federal government to establish a standard of 3 ppb for total arsenic and 5 ppb for lead in juice.
"We're concerned about the potential risks of exposure to these toxins, especially for children who are particularly vulnerable because of their small body size and the amount of juice they regularly consume," said Urvashi Rangan, Ph.D., director of safety & sustainability at Consumer Reports.
Although federal standards exist for arsenic and lead levels allowed in bottled and drinking water, there are no limits defined for fruit juices, a mainstay of many children's diets.
In a statement to ABC News regarding the new Consumer Reports data the FDA -- which stated in September 2011 amid public controversy that apple juice consumption poses little or no risk -- said it is now gathering further information.
"A small percentage of samples contain elevated levels of arsenic. In response, the FDA has expanded our surveillance activities and is collecting additional data," the agency said.
The FDA's statement on the safety of drinking apple juice.
Michael Landa, acting director of the FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition told two advocacy groups last week that the agency will collect and analyze juice samples from U.S. retailers to determine "the prevalence of arsenic in juice and to better understand the species of arsenic found in juice," according to Food Safety News.
The Juice Products Association responded by saying that the study is incongruous.
"Juice is not water. To compare the trace levels of arsenic or lead in juice to the regulatory guidelines for drinking water is not appropriate," the JPA said in a statement.
Consumer Reports also analyzed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's data on arsenic in the urine of men and women who were willing to report their food and drink consumption for 24 hours prior. Analysis showed that people who reported drinking apple or grape juice had, on average, about 20 percent higher levels of total urinary arsenic than those subjects who did not.
Patty Lovera, assistant director of Food & Water Watch, said it's important that the FDA establish an appropriate amount of arsenic acceptable in juice.
"This is movement, and so that's encouraging, but we really want to see the agency get to a point where they figure out the right level," she said.
Just over a week ago, the FDA announced the results of its own testing of apple juice -- most of which is produced in the U.S. The agency found that eight samples out of 160 had arsenic levels that exceeded their own "level of concern" for total arsenic.
Echoing Lovera and Consumer Reports' advice, ABC News' Chief Health and Medical Editor Dr. Richard Besser also says that the FDA needs to set a standard for apple juice for industry. The standard should probably be lower than what FDA is currently using, according to Besser.
The divisive subject reached a fever pitch in September when Besser confronted Dr. Mehmet Oz on "Good Morning America" for what he called "extremely irresponsible" statements Oz made on "The Dr. Oz Show" in an episode focusing on the dangers of trace levels of arsenic present in many popular brands of apple juice. Oz's statements at the time were said to be misleading and needlessly frightening to consumers.
Dr. Besser spoke on the subject on "Good Morning America" on Wednesday, explaining the faultiness of the information provided by the FDA and stating that he feels the agency should hold the juice industry accountable.
"Back in September the FDA made a number of statements that reassured me. I'm much less reassured now. They published the test online, but withheld eight results that were very high," Besser said.
11/21/11
A Message to Women From a Man: You Are Not "Crazy"
~ Forwarded by Lori Archie ~
You're so sensitive. You're so emotional. You're defensive. You're overreacting. Calm down. Relax. Stop freaking out! You're crazy! I was just joking, don't you have a sense of humor? You're so dramatic. Just get over it already!
Sound familiar?
If you're a woman, it probably does.
Do you ever hear any of these comments from your spouse, partner, boss, friends, colleagues, or relatives after you have expressed frustration, sadness, or anger about something they have done or said?
When someone says these things to you, it's not an example of inconsiderate behavior. When your spouse shows up half an hour late to dinner without calling -- that's inconsiderate behavior. A remark intended to shut you down like, "Calm down, you're overreacting," after you just addressed someone else's bad behavior, is emotional manipulation, pure and simple.
And this is the sort of emotional manipulation that feeds an epidemic in our country, an epidemic that defines women as crazy, irrational, overly sensitive, unhinged. This epidemic helps fuel the idea that women need only the slightest provocation to unleash their (crazy) emotions. It's patently false and unfair.
I think it's time to separate inconsiderate behavior from emotional manipulation, and we need to use a word not found in our normal vocabulary.
I want to introduce a helpful term to identify these reactions: gaslighting.
Gaslighting is a term often used by mental health professionals (I am not one) to describe manipulative behavior used to confuse people into thinking their reactions are so far off base that they're crazy.
The term comes from the 1944 MGM film, Gaslight, starring Ingrid Bergman. Bergman's husband in the film, played by Charles Boyer, wants to get his hands on her jewelry. He realizes he can accomplish this by having her certified as insane and hauled off to a mental institution. To pull of this task, he intentionally sets the gaslights in their home to flicker off and on, and every time Bergman's character reacts to it, he tells her she's just seeing things. In this setting, a gaslighter is someone who presents false information to alter the victim's perception of him or herself.
Today, when the term is referenced, it's usually because the perpetrator says things like, "You're so stupid," or "No one will ever want you," to the victim. This is an intentional, pre-meditated form of gaslighting, much like the actions of Charles Boyer's character in Gaslight, where he strategically plots to confuse Ingrid Bergman's character into believing herself unhinged.
The form of gaslighting I'm addressing is not always pre-mediated or intentional, which makes it worse, because it means all of us, especially women, have dealt with it at one time or another.
Those who engage in gaslighting create a reaction -- whether it's anger, frustration, sadness -- in the person they are dealing with. Then, when that person reacts, the gaslighter makes them feel uncomfortable and insecure by behaving as if their feelings aren't rational or normal.
My friend Anna (all names changed to protect privacy) is married to a man who feels it necessary to make random and unprompted comments about her weight. Whenever she gets upset or frustrated with his insensitive comments, he responds in the same, defeating way, "You're so sensitive. I'm just joking."
My friend Abbie works for a man who finds a way, almost daily, to unnecessarily shoot down her performance and her work product. Comments like, "Can't you do something right?" or "Why did I hire you?" are regular occurrences for her. Her boss has no problem firing people (he does it regularly), so you wouldn't know from these comments that Abbie has worked for him for six years. But every time she stands up for herself and says, "It doesn't help me when you say these things," she gets the same reaction: "Relax; you're overreacting."
Abbie thinks her boss is just being a jerk in these moments, but the truth is, he is making those comments to manipulate her into thinking her reactions are out of whack. And it's exactly that kind manipulation that has left her feeling guilty about being sensitive, and as a result, she has not left her job.
But gaslighting can be as simple as someone smiling and saying something like, "You're so sensitive," to somebody else. Such a comment may seem innocuous enough, but in that moment, the speaker is making a judgment about how someone else should feel.
While dealing with gaslighting isn't a universal truth for women, we all certainly know plenty of women who encounter it at work, home, or in personal relationships.
And the act of gaslighting does not simply affect women who are not quite sure of themselves. Even vocal, confident, assertive women are vulnerable to gaslighting.
Why?
Because women bare the brunt of our neurosis. It is much easier for us to place our emotional burdens on the shoulders of our wives, our female friends, our girlfriends, our female employees, our female colleagues, than for us to impose them on the shoulders of men.
It's a whole lot easier to emotionally manipulate someone who has been conditioned by our society to accept it. We continue to burden women because they don't refuse our burdens as easily. It's the ultimate cowardice.
Whether gaslighting is conscious or not, it produces the same result: It renders some women emotionally mute.
These women aren't able to clearly express to their spouses that what is said or done to them is hurtful. They can't tell their boss that his behavior is disrespectful and prevents them from doing their best work. They can't tell their parents that, when they are being critical, they are doing more harm than good.
When these women receive any sort of push back to their reactions, they often brush it off by saying, "Forget it, it's okay."
That "forget it" isn't just about dismissing a thought, it is about self-dismissal. It's heartbreaking.
No wonder some women are unconsciously passive aggressive when expressing anger, sadness, or frustration. For years, they have been subjected to so much gaslighting that they can no longer express themselves in a way that feels authentic to them.
They say, "I'm sorry," before giving their opinion. In an email or text message, they place a smiley face next to a serious question or concern, thereby reducing the impact of having to express their true feelings.
You know how it looks: "You're late :)"
These are the same women who stay in relationships they don't belong in, who don't follow their dreams, who withdraw from the kind of life they want to live.
Since I have embarked on this feminist self-exploration in my life and in the lives of the women I know, this concept of women as "crazy" has really emerged as a major issue in society at large and an equally major frustration for the women in my life, in general.
From the way women are portrayed on reality shows, to how we condition boys and girls to see women, we have come to accept the idea that women are unbalanced, irrational individuals, especially in times of anger and frustration.
Just the other day, on a flight from San Francisco to Los Angeles, a flight attendant who had come to recognize me from my many trips asked me what I did for a living. When I told her that I write mainly about women, she immediately laughed and asked, "Oh, about how crazy we are?"
Her gut reaction to my work made me really depressed. While she made her response in jest, her question nonetheless makes visible a pattern of sexist commentary that travels through all facets of society on how men view women, which also greatly impacts how women may view themselves.
As far as I am concerned, the epidemic of gaslighting is part of the struggle against the obstacles of inequality that women constantly face. Acts of gaslighting steal their most powerful tool: their voice. This is something we do to women every day, in many different ways.
I don't think this idea that women are "crazy," is based in some sort of massive conspiracy. Rather, I believe it's connected to the slow and steady drumbeat of women being undermined and dismissed, on a daily basis. And gaslighting is one of many reasons why we are dealing with this public construction of women as "crazy."
I recognize that I've been guilty of gaslighting my women friends in the past (but never my male friends--surprise, surprise). It's shameful, but I'm glad I realized that I did it on occasion and put a stop to it.
While I take total responsibility for my actions, I do believe that I, along with many men, am a byproduct of our conditioning. It's about the general insight our conditioning gives us into admitting fault and exposing any emotion.
When we are discouraged in our youth and early adulthood from expressing emotion, it causes many of us to remain steadfast in our refusal to express regret when we see someone in pain from our actions.
When I was writing this piece, I was reminded of one of my favorite Gloria Steinem quotes, "The first problem for all of us, men and women, is not to learn, but to unlearn."
So for many of us, it's first about unlearning how to flicker those gaslights and learning how to acknowledge and understand the feelings, opinions, and positions of the women in our lives.
But isn't the issue of gaslighting ultimately about whether we are conditioned to believe that women's opinions don't hold as much weight as ours? That what women have to say, what they feel, isn't quite as legitimate?
Yashar will be soon releasing his first short e-book, entitled, A Message To Women From A Man: You Are Not Crazy -- How We Teach Men That Women Are Crazy and How We Convince Women To Ignore Their Instincts.
Follow Yashar Ali on Twitter: www.twitter.com/yashar
11/20/11
Breaking Bread
Hey ladies,
We are a few days away from Thanksgiving day and the holidays are quickly upon us. I want to encourage you during this time, that its not all about the food, but really about the people that are with us. Take the time to gauge your friends and family, spend time with them, eat with them, pray for them, uphold them, listen to them and their needs, get to meet new people and invite them to dinner...etc.
Thanksgiving is a very hard time for a lot of people that do not have family members with them, as this tends to remind them of their loss or absence of...however, as Righteous Women, we are to key into these needs and offer assistance as we can.
Remember to look out to others, and share what you have with them....and hopefully, your relationships will go beyond Thursday's dinner and will carry on for a period or a lifetime...
I pray for your families, and know that God will continue to shine upon you.
Happy Thanksgiving week...and be blessed!
11/9/11
When others reject you
In Matthew 10, Jesus was sending out His disciples, and He told them that if they went to a town and the people didn't accept them, they should shake the dust off their feet and go to the next town.
What does that mean for us today? Basically, if someone doesn't want to be helped, we are not obligated to try and change them.
The world is full of hungy, hurting, needy people who would love to get any little bit of love and encouragement you have to give them. So when one person rejects you, don't let that stop you. Simply do what Jesus did. Move on to the next person and the next person until somebody wants what you've got.
Extracted from Joyce Meyer's November article
10/31/11
A Pure Heart
Jesus is the most controversial figure in the history of mankind. We all have a sinful nature that does not allow us to see the wisdom in His teachings. We need to be made new; we need to be given new eyes for answers to those familiar patterns in us that lead us down a path of destruction.
Jesus spent much of His ministry teaching radical new ideas. Ideas that seem downright unbelievable because they are so contrary to what our culture says is the way to live life. On a windy moutainside, Jesus proclaimed what would become known as the Beautitudes - eight pathways of death to our fleshly desires that would bring us the abundant life He promised to this who love Him.
Matthew 5:8 (New Living Translation) - God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God.
Ladies, a pure heart is a heart that is not haughty. Pride and arrogance will prevent us from seeing God and knowing His will.
Extracts from Page 126 - Living with Unmet Desires
10/26/11
To a Special Person
IT'S CHRISTIAN PERSON WEEK AND YOU SHOULD SEND THIS TO ALL BEAUTIFUL CHRISTIAN PEOPLE.
When I say that 'I am a Christian', I am not saying that 'I am clean living. I'm saying 'I was lost, but now I'm found and forgiven.'
When I say 'I am a Christian', I don't speak of this with pride. I'm confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide.
When I say 'I am a Christian', I'm not trying to be strong. I'm professing that I'm weak and need His strength to carry on.
When I say 'I am a Christian', I'm not bragging of success. I'm admitting I have failed and need GOD to clean my mess.
When I say 'I am a Christian', I'm not claiming to be perfect. My flaws are far too visible, but GOD believes I am worth it.
When I say 'I am a Christian', I still feel the sting of pain. I have my share of heartaches, so I call upon HIS name.
When I say 'I am a Christian', I'm not holier than thou, I'm just a simple sinner who received GOD's good grace, somehow!
Today is Beautiful Christian Person's Day.
Boost another person's self esteem, and send this to them!
Be Blessed, and be a Blessing.
10/20/11
Family Dynamics
Ah, the complexity of family relationships! There is something we all have in common: we are all part of a family. We really had no choice in the matter to whom we were born to or whether we had any siblings. The greatest encouragement and the greatest discouragement can come from people with whom we have shared a great part of our lives living with.
Take an assessment of your family relationships right now. How would you rate your intimacy level in the following relationships on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 being extremely distant and 5 being extremely satisfying)?
Your parents: ________________
Your siblings: ________________
Your husband / fiancee / boyfriend: ______________________
Your children (if any): ________________________________
Family Builders:
- How can you change the distant relationships?
- How can you model and/or maintain the satisfying relationships?
10/18/11
Happy Rest
Have you ever felt the sweet happy sense of rest upon going to bed at night? How delightful was the sensation of relaxing every muscle and letting your body go into perfect abandonment of ease and comfort. The strain of the day had ceased, for a few hours at least. You no longer had to hold up an aching head, a weary back, or a burdened heart. You trusted yourself to the bed in an absolute confidence and it held you up without effort or strain. You rested!
But suppose you had doubted the strength or the stability of your bed, and had dreaded each moment to find it giving way beneath you. Could you have rested then? Would not every muscle have been strained in a fruitless effort to hold yourself up, and would not the weariness have been greater than if you had not gone to bed at all?
Now, apply this analogy to what it means to rest in the Lord. Let you souls lie down upon the couch of His will. Relax every strain, and lay off every burden. Let yourself go in perfect abandonment of ease and comfort, knowing that, since He holds you up, you are perfectly safe. Your part is simply to rest. His part is to sustan you; and He cannot fail.
Rest Builders:
- Is there an area or issue in your life in which you need to experience God's rest and peace?
- When have you felt a God-given rest or peace after particularly difficult times?
10/4/11
The Appointed Time
Pride has been one of the most heartbreaking sins in my life. You see, I was a "good" girl on the outside. I had mastered the role of what I thought everyone wanted me to be. Unfortunately, the abundant life Christ had promised me through His Word, and which I saw in others, remained as elusive to me as ever.
As I look back on my childhood and young adult years, I realize that the main reason I obeyed the rules was fear of disappointing others, not necessarily becuase I wanted to do the right thing. I never thought I was attactive or talented or particularly smart. I had a driving need to feel significant, but I felt I possessed nothing that was honored by my culture to make me feel I was worthy. I did, however, have my reputation. That was the area inwhich I was admired and fawned over by others. I was the responsible one, the mature one - I was even called the spiritual one, often. I strove with all my might to be what others said I was. This standard became my personal criteria to being accepted by others.
After making some destructive decisions in a dating relationship in my college years, I realized I had failed to meet my own standard of what it meant to be a "good" Christian girl. The result was crushing guilt that extinguised my joy. Worse than that, I believed the lie that I had dissapointed God beyond hope of His forgivenenss or redemption.
Until I was confronted with my own inabilitiy to be "good", I was extremely prideful of that false goodness. Pride is first on the list of detestable sins that God hates in Proverbs 6:16-19. I truly didn't see my pride as sinful. I was my own judge and jury when it came to my righteousness before God.
Self Builders:
- What have you latched onto in your life as a direct result of your need for acceptance or attention?
- Has this been something that has proven to be constructive or destructive to your relationship with God, yourself, and others?
Exerts from "Living with Unmet Desires" - Page 105
9/19/11
Spirit-Led Persistence
by Joyce Meyer - posted September 19, 2011
What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit [by the Holy Spirit that is within me], but I will also pray [intelligently] with my mind and understanding.
—1 Corinthians 14:15
I really want to encourage you to pray persistent, persevering prayers by the leading of the Holy Spirit—not mere repetitious prayers that do not come from your heart, but prayers that refuse to give up. It is possible to use your mouth to speak words of prayer that have no meaning behind them at all, and those prayers are nothing but dead works. I could quote the entire Lord's Prayer while I am thinking about something else, and that would not bless God or do me any good, but if I am sincere and pray from my heart, God hears and works in my behalf.
Lip service doesn't do anything for God or accomplish anything in our lives, so even when we pray about the same thing over and over again, we need to be careful not to fall into meaningless repetition. Instead, we need to allow the Holy Spirit to lead us in a fresh way, even when we are addressing a subject about which we have prayed for a long time. Sometimes He will lead us to be diligent and persistent about a matter, but there is a difference between repetition and Spirit-led persistence.
Words spoken in prayer that are not connected to our hearts are words without power. When we pray we should focus and concentrate on what we are saying. We should never merely verbalize things we have memorized while our hearts are far from God. The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available (see James 5:16).
God's word for you today: Your heartfelt prayers to God have power and He hears them.
________________________________________
From the book Hearing from God Each Morning: 365 Daily Devotions by Joyce Meyer.
9/17/11
Effortless
soft like a baby’s cheek,
clear as a river running in the Congo
is what I truly seek.
EFFORTLESS…EFFORTLESS
I love this word
EF-FORT-LESS.
I say it …I believe it…I receive it!
The vibe I get from it
makes me feel alive,
and I thank God
He has allowed me
to survive all the rain, all the pain,
EFFORTLESS being my gain,
all because He reigns!
My thinking is reborn,
as EFFORTLESS helps me get through the storm,
and it has spun a radiant light,
shining on all my different plights,
reminding me – “ This is not your fight…”
With EFFORTLESS…
I relax,
I sit back,
I am in a constant siesta,
and EFFORTLESS even brings the confetti to my fiesta!
When I have to scale tall walls or if I fall,
EFFORTLESS calls me, finds me,
bringing me goose down pillows laced with harmony.
When I see EFFORTLESS blowing in the wind,
I caress, catch it,
dang, even my little dog wants to fetch it,
EFFORTLESS always leaving me in a good breathless…
EFFORTLESS
Simply amazing, His love never changing.
I am at peace, no labor, no drama.
I attract EFFORTLESS,
EFFORTLESS finds me
desiring to give me a continuity of glee,
empowering me so I can remain free,
and able to be all I can be.
I feel healed
just by rolling this delicious word
from my heart to my tongue and through my mouth
as I happily shout… EFFORTLESS!
I speak it with intention,
anticipating EFFORTLESS coming to fruition,
while thanking God for his son’s Crucifixion
none of this story is fiction,
as you read between the lines, feel it in your spirit
and you see the theme of EFFORTLESS mentioned.
Anyone who cannot offer EFFORTLESS
and her sister named PEACE,
I must release.
It is then I supernaturally increase,
and I gain more momentum,
I hum, I become uniquely undone
with awesome abandonment,
I go higher and higher, focused on what’s truly important.
And as I go even higher, I look back realizing
just how much the enemy is a complete liar
and his plan to keep you, me and all of God’s family away from
EFFORTLESS…
Selah.
L. Archie ©9/14/2011
In the Shadow of His Wings
:~: Lori Archie :~:
9/15/11
The game we play
This is the game we play
We enjoy the torture but can't take the pain
Life is what we make of it, but really what we plan of it
Some surprises but mostly intentional
Who is responsible for the mistakes we make?
What happens to the oh-oh's that come up?
It's amazing how quickly we forget what we receive is what we bargained for
This is the game that we play
Play wisely ladies!
8/30/11
Christian Meditation
Psalm 1: Blessed is the man who does now talk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.
When I read this, one question comes to mind. "How do I follow this example?". I began to think about the word "meditate". Meditating is a great way to retain the Word. But how do I learn to mediate in a world so full of distractions? For me, meditating on the Word often necessitates turning off the radio and TV while I do housework or drive. Silence gives me freedom to mull over what I've studied and pray it into my life or the lives of others.
Meditating on the Word also means I will have spiritual "meat" to offer to others around me. What I have studied and meditated on - developed in my own mind - may be the exact insight that others need.
Meditation Builders:
- How do you manage to reflect on what you've learned from Scripture when you're constantly battling distractions?
- What is something you've recently learned from God's Word that you might share with your friends/family/loves ones this week?
8/26/11
A Woman of Substance
Written by Cathy Whitney
"As a woman with many responsibilities, some self-imposed and others that I can't ran away from, I find myself going back to the same thing over and over again. I desire to be a pure, natural, approachable, available and all rounded woman after God's own heart. The woman that God intended for me to be.
Now approaching ten years of marriage, 2.5 kids later, I have at least picked up a few things that strengthen me, things that push me to the next day and hold me up in the midst of all things woman
- Being approachable: I have found this to be liberating, uplifting and a joy filler. For me, a woman upholds the community. A woman holds together the home. A woman encourages, blesses and nurtures. In our daily routines of life, how open am I? Am I a person that another woman would approach if they had a question, a prayer request, or a need? When people look at me, do I look arrogant? Am I snobbish? Am I closed-minded and would people avoid to approach me? The energy that comes from a woman should be one that is pure, joyful and exciting not just for ourselves but for others around us
- Being a builder: Many times as women, we are overwhelmed by the need to share information, give our opinions and views - but sometimes, it's no longer sharing, it's gossip. Instead of building, encouraging and lifting a person, we find ourselves participating more in 'sharing' about someone. Sometimes it's too late to stop...because the stories are juicy. So, we choose to continue and by the time we are done talking...we feel bad. Personally, in such moments, I can't wait to go home and repent. Now, I'm learning that it's ok to stop a conversation, pray for that person and leave it at that.
- Being available: We may not always have time, but as women we have more to give than anyone else. We are made to nurture, hug and make sure that all are ok. Of course we are to be careful on who we are available to, and how we approach some situations. Sometimes we are too busy engrossed in our pettiness to notice sisters who need us. Being of an open mind, not being arrogant and not being a snob can allow others to come to us for prayer, company and just to chat. It's ok to smile. It portrays a happy and an approachable demeanor. It's okay to take sometime to chat, encourage somebody, hug somebody and let them know that it will be ok. We don't have to be friends with the person.
- Being natural: Being vague, being vain and just plain enticed into all things vanity could destroy the calling in our lives. We can be sexy, do our nails weekly and hang on to Gucci and all....but let's not allow all of that to be what people see from us. Let others see a woman of substance. A woman who is beautiful inside and out, a woman who cares more about others than herself, a woman who is approachable, a woman who is pure, natural and all well rounded in all things"
Love, Cathy Whitney
8/25/11
Job's Essential Lesson
Job's name has become a synonym for the suffering of life's derailments. Actually, "derailment" is too weak a word to describe what happened. He lost everything: children, health, riches, the support of his friends and wife, and apparently the love of the God he had trusted and loved for so long.
What did he do when life came to a halt? The Bible says he "got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship and said: Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised' " (Job 1:20-21).
Job's perspective wiped the "why me, woe is me?" question from his mind. He recognized that he had nothing when he arrived on this planet, and he would have nothing when he left it. His nakedness was a dress rehearsal for his death and a remembrance of his birth. In the end, it will have gone full circle and he would be back where he started; with nothing and no one but GOD.
Self Builders:
- What are some of the struggles and losses you're experiencing right now?
- How are you able to love and trust God, despite these painful experiences?
8/21/11
To all you special sisters!
A young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day, drinking iced tea and visiting with her mother. As they talked about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations of adulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance upon her daughter.. 'Don't forget your sisters,' she advised, swirling the tea leaves to the bottom of her glass. 'They'll be more important as you get older. No matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you love the children you may have, you are still going to need sisters. Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them.'
'Remember that 'sisters' means ALL the women...your girlfriends, your daughters, and all your other women relatives too. 'You'll need other women. Women always do.'
What a funny piece of advice!' the young woman thought. Haven't I just gotten married? Haven't I just joined the couple-world? I'm now a married woman, for goodness sake! A grownup! Surely my husband and the family we may start will be all I need to make my life worthwhile!'
But she listened to her mother. She kept contact with her sisters and made more women friends each year. As the years tumbled by, one after another, she gradually came to understand that her mother really knew what she was talking about. As time and nature work their changes and their mysteries upon a woman, sisters are the mainstays of her life. After more than 50 years of living in this world, here is what I've learned:
THIS SAYS IT ALL:
Time passes. Life happens. Distance separates. Children grow up. Jobs come and go. Love waxes and wanes. Men don't do what they're supposed to do. Hearts break. Parents die. Colleagues forget favors. Careers end. BUT.........Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are between you. A girl friend is never farther away than needing her can reach. When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley's end.
Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you....Or come in and carry you out. Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters, daughters-in-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers, Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and extended family: all bless our life!
The world wouldn't be the same without women, and neither would I.. When we began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we would need each other. Every day, we need each other still.
Happy days!
8/19/11
5 Ways to Let Go of a Grudge
The influence of negative emotions is so powerful that the authors think there should be a new diagnosis called post-traumatic embitterment disorder, or PTED, for those who can't forgive the people who have wronged them, reports CNN's senior medical correspondent Elizabeth Cohen in her new "Empowered Patient" column.
Like other negative emotions — stress and depression among them — bitterness has physical consequences: high blood pressure, elevated heart rate, increased risk of heart disease. The longer you hold a grudge, the more likely your negative emotions will take a toll on your heart and your health.
"The data that negative mental states cause heart problems is just stupendous," Dr. Charles Raison, associate professor of psychiatry at Emory University School of Medicine, told CNN. "The data is just as established as smoking, and the size of the effect is the same."
Life is nothing if not unjust, however, so we're all apt to feel bitter about something at some point in our lives. The trick is not to let it become a chronic problem.
Cohen offers five tips to keep your anger from festering. I've summed them up, below, but to get a fuller picture, you should read Cohen's column in its entirety on CNN:
- Vent to a friend about what's bothering you
- Remember that you're not the only person in the world who's ever been wronged
- Consider confronting the person who injured you
- Realize you're only hurting yourself by holding a grudge
- Try to see things from the other person's point of view
8/9/11
Seeking Forgiveness in our Children
I always felt that kids deserve the same respect we would give any adult, which is why I cannot affored treating my daughter less than the way my Father in heaven would treat me. Now, this doesn't mean that I do anything perfectly.....
There are times when I am sick, grouchy, short, quick tempered, out of grace, tired, hungry etc....and who do I usually take it out on first? Unfortunately, the people closest to me - the ones I love. This is probably right for you too...if you'll be honest.
But I believe this is something we can strive not to do.
Treating our kids any other way than God's best leaves us feeling horrible about ourselves, and leaves them feeling just as horrible about themselves. That's why asking the little ones for forgiveness is a powerful moving-forward tool. You have to allow yourself the freedom to be imperfect and vulnerable; thereby learning to seek forgiveness and still like who you are.
I think some parents are fearful to be vulnerable with their children because they feel they will lose their children's respect if they open up. How can we teach our children to seek forgiveness from others if they do not see that example in us?
Vulnerability Builders:
- When have you felt that you need to be open with your children or loved ones?
- How did you deal with that emotion?
8/5/11
Goals
How are you doing with your goals? It is now the 8 month and you may find that you may have had to re-adjust some goals, or delete some goals, or re-set new goals, or move some timelines around..etc.
Whatever it is that you have done or thinking of doing, stay encouraged, stay focused. Goals are there so we can see where a little motivation and achievement can get us....however, if you see that your goals are not realistic, there is nothing wrong in pulling back and making some changes here and there. As long as you are doing something productive with your now, your present and your today....tomorrow will be promising.
Do what counts...
7/24/11
Finished Work
My real question is this: why are we so stagnant in our emotional state? Is it that we really do not know that we are victors and that we are adopted into spiritual equity OR is it that we are much more consumed in the attention we get when we stay hurt and broken? What is more important? Our freedom or our bondage?
Knowing is half the battle, right?
The problem is that we know that we know that we know that God is who He is, but we only believe this truth for everyone else. For some odd reason, we don't believe the same truth for ourselves. It gets so bad that when the victory does come, we spend a lot of words thanking the people who held us up in prayer (during our difficult times), so much more that we forget to thank God who has been our Savior, all along.
Ladies, we have to get our minds and hearts in a place that is completely and totally trusting in God; where our actions & emotions are in complete submission to the promises of God.
We've got to believe it without a shadow of a doubt.
Freedom Builders:
- What area of your life, do you find really hard to let go off?
- How are you dealing with that?
7/12/11
A Hike & the Beach
It's Summer Time! And time to get out there....to Stinson! It's gorgeous!
Bring a blanket, some snacks, lunch, picnic stuff....we'll eat together @ the beach after we hike. Or you can sign up on the items to bring (after you RSVP here, or @http://new.evite.com/#view_invite:eid=00AFAAQZXGK5ZYMDWEPAVSPNOHJ4YU).
If you'll like to carpool, let me know and we can arrange something. Otherwise, we'll all meet there at 9am, so we can get done with the hike in good time... :)
Date: August 6th
Time: 9am
**********************************
Location: Stinson Beach is located on Highway One, just north of San Francisco, California. The scenic highway is just one of the great reasons to visit Stinson Beach. Panoramic Highway also provides access.
Directions to Stinson Beach are shown below, whether you are traveling from the North, South, or East!
From San Francisco after crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, take Hwy. 101 North approximately three miles to the "Hwy. One, Stinson Beach" exit. Follow the signs and enjoy your drive down one of the most scenic highways in the nation. Stinson Beach is approximately 20 miles from San Francisco.
From Sacramento take Interstate 80 West to 580 West to Highway 101 South. Take exit "Hwy. One, Stinson Beach", approximately three miles north of San Francisco. Follow the signs and enjoy your drive down one of the most scenic highways in the nation!
From Northern California follow Highway 101 South to exit "Hwy. One, Stinson Beach". Follow the signs and continue on Hwy. One which will bring you directly into Stinson Beach.
ALTERNATE TO HWY. ONE
While on Hwy. One traveling to Stinson Beach, you will come to a sign giving notice to Muir Woods and Mt. Tamalpais State Park. If you wish, you may turn right at this point and take Panoramic Hwy. through the park. It will take you back to Hwy. One and will end only blocks south of Stinson Beach.
However you choose to come, both highways are extremely scenic and extremely curvy. Vehicles over 35 feet are NOT recommended.
7/6/11
Good Listener
I don't know about your friends but each one of mine are totally different....opinionated, desperate, competitive, strong-willed, dramatic, emotional, non-confrontational, scared, full of life, tired (all the time), hurt, broken etc. Yeah, this just about sums up all of my close friends. And we need all these types of personalities, to keep life fun and balanced.
And this listening without necessarily responding thing is something that I need to learn hard. Its good to know that I can talk to someone and they are truly there (in the moment), to hear me out. Not to say that you do not have an opinion, but it doesn't always have to be heard!
Let's practice this....
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