October 7, 2018

Rising from a very late night/early morning, I was talking on the phone with someone very close to me. We were having a deep conversation about God and our relationship with Him. I was expressing how I got to where I am today, sharing what’s on my mind and my heart with family and friends. Before I could even become this voice, I needed to comprehend and understand my life because I was lost. However, I still had happiness in my heart and kept smiling. That’s what we’re able to do is smile through our pain and long-suffering because of God’s love for us. Most of us were raised in the church: going to church, Bible study, Sunday school, revivals, etc. Our grandparents, parents, preachers, and teachers were, and still are, sharing their knowledge and wisdom with God’s children to help us. I am one who was introduced to God as a child growing up, but did I comprehend Him? Did He resonate in my soul? No. I was only going through the motions of traditions and doing whatever I wanted to do in the end. Young and carefree, having lots of fun. Then, I started to really experience the pains of life that came along with my choices which followed by hurt feelings and confused minds. Now, the choices I made weren’t so fun anymore. I wanted out. I didn’t/dodon’t like being abused, sad, mad, upset, depressed, and stressed. When you’re dealing with these negative emotions, you’re no good to no one. You don’t have the time of day or patience to deal with anybody else’s troubles. I went from being nice and sweet to mean-spirited and short-tempered. So, I really started paying attention to myself, what I was doing, how my actions affect others, and vice versa. When you know this, you can make the necessary changes for your peace of mind and overall spiritual well-being. That’s what we have to do, be aware of our actions, take accountability for them, and make better choices moving forward. Life is our greatest lesson, and God is our greatest teacher.