I have taken for granted my citizenship. I don't normally (actually never) wake up in the morning and say" Thank you God that I'm an American and that I live in America".
Don't get me wrong, I love traveling to other countries and being exposed to different cultures. And, not to down grade any other country by any means, but It's well known that America offers so many privileges, rights, and opportunites that are not available eleswhere. I say this still realizing that America is not perfect and that many people live in awful conditions and feel overwhelming notions of little hope each and everyday. However, in comparison to the people in places like Libya and Iraq...well...there is no comparison.
Even at America's worst- the never ending recession, modern-day racism/hate/gender exploitation, constant political strain between democrats and republicans- America is still the best.
I still feel safe. I still feel relevant. I still feel Hope!
I have taken for granted my citizenship... but, I plan to be more Thankful!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
What I Take For Granted.....
Usually around this time of year...November-The Thanksgiving Holiday...people start to reflect on all the things they are Thankful for.
I'm no different, I do the same thing. But, this year I feel like being completely honest with myself- I feel like "keeping it real".
Although I am thankful for so many things, just as we all are; if we are completely honest with ourselves, we would admit that there are so many things that we take for granted...so many things that we simply expect to have. This doesn't mean that we are selfish or bad, it only means that we are human.
So, for the remainder of the Thanksgiving Season, I'll be reflecting on all the things that I take for granted. I can only be truly thankful for the many blessings in my life by first peeling back the layers and being 'real' with myself.
#1. I have taken for granted for my HUSBAND.
My Husband is the sweetest, most thoughful man that I have ever met. That's why I married him. He's not perfect, nobody is, but he sure is close to it. I think we all get into the monotony of everyday life; and days past and then weeks and months past. It's easy to forget to say to others that we apprepreciate them. its even harder to show them that we appreciate them. I vow to make a conscious effort to tell and show my Husband each day how much I appreciated him and that he is not taken for granted.
Think about it...and stay tuned.
I'm no different, I do the same thing. But, this year I feel like being completely honest with myself- I feel like "keeping it real".
Although I am thankful for so many things, just as we all are; if we are completely honest with ourselves, we would admit that there are so many things that we take for granted...so many things that we simply expect to have. This doesn't mean that we are selfish or bad, it only means that we are human.
So, for the remainder of the Thanksgiving Season, I'll be reflecting on all the things that I take for granted. I can only be truly thankful for the many blessings in my life by first peeling back the layers and being 'real' with myself.
#1. I have taken for granted for my HUSBAND.
My Husband is the sweetest, most thoughful man that I have ever met. That's why I married him. He's not perfect, nobody is, but he sure is close to it. I think we all get into the monotony of everyday life; and days past and then weeks and months past. It's easy to forget to say to others that we apprepreciate them. its even harder to show them that we appreciate them. I vow to make a conscious effort to tell and show my Husband each day how much I appreciated him and that he is not taken for granted.
Think about it...and stay tuned.
Friday, July 1, 2011
We'll see what happens...
Well...Today is the Day. Its finally here! I'll officially be thirty years old in a few hours! (I was born at 4:10 am on July 1).
I've been freaking out and at times felt a bit silly, but my feelings are justified. I came across this article:
http://www.relevantmagazine.com/life/whole-life/features/22216-9-things-to-know-before-you-turn-30
Like this article says- "Life at and around 30 can be contradictory." This completely sums up how I've been feeling. There is so much I know, but yet so much I yearn to know. I feel so accomplished, but at the same time, I feel as though I have so much more to accomplish and become. I feel like such an adult, but want so much for my mommy and daddy to just step in and take care of me the way they did when I was a little girl.
I guess it'll take some getting use to the whole '30' thing.
I've got a few more hours.....So, we'll see what happens:-)
I've been freaking out and at times felt a bit silly, but my feelings are justified. I came across this article:
http://www.relevantmagazine.com/life/whole-life/features/22216-9-things-to-know-before-you-turn-30
Like this article says- "Life at and around 30 can be contradictory." This completely sums up how I've been feeling. There is so much I know, but yet so much I yearn to know. I feel so accomplished, but at the same time, I feel as though I have so much more to accomplish and become. I feel like such an adult, but want so much for my mommy and daddy to just step in and take care of me the way they did when I was a little girl.
I guess it'll take some getting use to the whole '30' thing.
I've got a few more hours.....So, we'll see what happens:-)
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
One down.......and ???
This past Saturday....I did it!!!
My bff was getting a tattoo removed and I decided to get one- Now that's a major CONTRADICTION.
One would think that if your bff is getting a tattoo removed, then you'd probably decide against getting one or that the bff would talk you out of it. Not the case here. See, my bff has two tattoos and was just getting the one removed that she's not quite happy with anymore; so she's not opposed to body art. And no, she didn't talk me out of it- she encouraged it, because she's that kind of friend. She let's me embrace life and that's why she's the bff. :-)
Getting a tattoo was something that I've always wanted to do (it's on my 'Martini Glass' List) and since I'm turning 30 in less than 30 days- I've made a vow to just LIVE! To just do the things that I want to do before I'm unable to do them...no holds barred.
This experience was like no other. I was so nervous! I started getting butterflies around 3pm; I got a major migraine; My palms were sweating; and I even had to do the nervous trip to the restroom! OMGosh!
I know, I know...It wasn't that serious. But hey, let's be honest; I should have done this 10 years ago while I was in college and after 3 shots of whatever cheap liquor I could afford at that time. But, here I was- less than 30 days away from turning 30 years old, sitting in 'the chair', trying to keep my sun dress tucked between my legs, wondering what the husband would say, running through my finances and to-do list and other grown up things in my head, all while freaking out over a itsy bitsy tattoo. I looked ridiculous!!!!
But, the after effects....WOW! I feel amazing! I feel sexy, liberated, and spontaneous. I did something that I've always wanted to do. The feeling is almost indescribable!
This has only given me the courage to complete all the other things on my 'Martini Glass' List and I can't wait. :-)
The finished product- A cardinal (red bird)....I have this one superstition that if you make a wish while blowing a kiss at a red bird, then the wish will come true. My mother told me this when I was a little girl...and I still believe.
My bff was getting a tattoo removed and I decided to get one- Now that's a major CONTRADICTION.
One would think that if your bff is getting a tattoo removed, then you'd probably decide against getting one or that the bff would talk you out of it. Not the case here. See, my bff has two tattoos and was just getting the one removed that she's not quite happy with anymore; so she's not opposed to body art. And no, she didn't talk me out of it- she encouraged it, because she's that kind of friend. She let's me embrace life and that's why she's the bff. :-)
Getting a tattoo was something that I've always wanted to do (it's on my 'Martini Glass' List) and since I'm turning 30 in less than 30 days- I've made a vow to just LIVE! To just do the things that I want to do before I'm unable to do them...no holds barred.
This experience was like no other. I was so nervous! I started getting butterflies around 3pm; I got a major migraine; My palms were sweating; and I even had to do the nervous trip to the restroom! OMGosh!
I know, I know...It wasn't that serious. But hey, let's be honest; I should have done this 10 years ago while I was in college and after 3 shots of whatever cheap liquor I could afford at that time. But, here I was- less than 30 days away from turning 30 years old, sitting in 'the chair', trying to keep my sun dress tucked between my legs, wondering what the husband would say, running through my finances and to-do list and other grown up things in my head, all while freaking out over a itsy bitsy tattoo. I looked ridiculous!!!!
But, the after effects....WOW! I feel amazing! I feel sexy, liberated, and spontaneous. I did something that I've always wanted to do. The feeling is almost indescribable!
This has only given me the courage to complete all the other things on my 'Martini Glass' List and I can't wait. :-)
The finished product- A cardinal (red bird)....I have this one superstition that if you make a wish while blowing a kiss at a red bird, then the wish will come true. My mother told me this when I was a little girl...and I still believe.
Friday, May 20, 2011
The Carpool Lane
The difference in a meaningful life and a life without meaning is like the difference between the regular traffic lanes and the carpool lanes.
In the regular traffic lanes you can definitely accomplish the goal of getting from point A to point B-Synonymous to birth and death.
However, when times get tough- rush hour, auto accidents, bad weather- the regular traffic lanes are just not beneficial anymore.
During these same tough times, the carpool lane is wide open, constantly flowing, and drivers just keep moving. But, in order to take advantage of the carpool lane, you must have at least one other passenger.
A meaningful life is one shared with others- the ones you love. It's a life in which you learn to depend on and be depended on. It's a life where you acknowledge that you need someone with you who is just along for the ride. It's The Carpool Lane!
So, when life gets tough...you want to have your mandatory additional passenger with you to help you stay wide open, constantly flowing , and to keep moving.
In the regular traffic lanes you can definitely accomplish the goal of getting from point A to point B-Synonymous to birth and death.
However, when times get tough- rush hour, auto accidents, bad weather- the regular traffic lanes are just not beneficial anymore.
During these same tough times, the carpool lane is wide open, constantly flowing, and drivers just keep moving. But, in order to take advantage of the carpool lane, you must have at least one other passenger.
A meaningful life is one shared with others- the ones you love. It's a life in which you learn to depend on and be depended on. It's a life where you acknowledge that you need someone with you who is just along for the ride. It's The Carpool Lane!
So, when life gets tough...you want to have your mandatory additional passenger with you to help you stay wide open, constantly flowing , and to keep moving.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
The "Martini Glass" List
We've all heard of the "Bucket List". You know, the list of things you want to do before you die! Well, I'm creating a list of this sort, but just can't stand to call it the "Bucket List". So...I'm calling it the "Martini Glass" list, for two reasons. 1.) "Bucket List" sounds like the term that would be used by middle-aged men and I am far from that. 2.) "Bucket List" is usually associated with things you want to do before you die, but my list is just things I want to do this month, this summer, this year, next year, before I turn 30- or in other words, things I want to do WHILE I'M LIVING!
The Martini Glass List
What's on your "Martini Glass" List?
The Martini Glass List
- go to Paris
- get a tattoo
- meet President Barack Obama
- go skydiving
- write a book
- go to dinner with my dad
- go snow skiing
- take a self-defense/karate class
- get a really short hair cut
- go on a mission trip
- touch an elephant's trunk
- do karaoke in a room full of strangers
- swim with dolphins
- go to the Opera
- live for at least 3 months in another country
- run a marathon
- learn to play an instrument
- go horseback riding
- go rock climbing
- visit all 50 united states
- ride in a hot air balloon
- take an art class
- go to a drive-in movie
- be interviewed by someone because of my success
- discover my purpose in life
What's on your "Martini Glass" List?
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
HEAL the past ~ LIVE the present ~ DREAM the future.....
This past Saturday started out just like any other Saturday. The sun was shining bright, the temperature was just right- 70+ and breezy, and the sky look absolutely breath taking- as if it had opened up and God was peering right down on us.
My husband left for his flag football game. I finished laundry, walk my dog Cooper, and spent some time playing with my 2 year old niece.
And then......my husband called. He told me that before his flag football game started, one of the players collapsed on the field. En route to the hospital, he died. He was in his 30's.
I was shocked! My husband couldn't get home fast enough to hug and kiss me and tell me how much he loved me. And I couldn't wait to hold onto him as tight as I could-never letting him go!
So, this was definitely a "wake-up call" while on this journey to 30. I've prayed all week for the skills needed to live a better and most productive life possible. I've prayed to be less judgmental and less self-centered. I've prayed to be more compassionate and more appreciative. I've prayed for LIFE! Because we never know when it's over.
My husband left for his flag football game. I finished laundry, walk my dog Cooper, and spent some time playing with my 2 year old niece.
And then......my husband called. He told me that before his flag football game started, one of the players collapsed on the field. En route to the hospital, he died. He was in his 30's.
I was shocked! My husband couldn't get home fast enough to hug and kiss me and tell me how much he loved me. And I couldn't wait to hold onto him as tight as I could-never letting him go!
So, this was definitely a "wake-up call" while on this journey to 30. I've prayed all week for the skills needed to live a better and most productive life possible. I've prayed to be less judgmental and less self-centered. I've prayed to be more compassionate and more appreciative. I've prayed for LIFE! Because we never know when it's over.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
When Times Get Hard, You Can Find Me In The Kitchen.
I'm thankful that as I get older, I continue to learn more about myself.
When life gets stressful and it seems like it's too much to bear, It's important to know what calms you- what brings you back to solid ground. This week was stressful for me, but I was able to level out my nerves by getting myself in "my zone" .
I like cooking, especially new recipes and cooking for others. Cooking is one of the things that gets me in "my zone". This may seem strange to some, but everyone has their own "zone". For you it may be running, reading, or gardening. As long as you have something that will always calm you in those stressful moments.
So, the other day, when my nerves were at their highest, I tried a new recipe. Italian Shrimp Stew. I got this recipe from a magazine while sitting under the dryer at the salon. I added my own touch and some Oven Toasted Grill Cheese on the side- and magic happened. I started out borderline migraine status and by the end of dinner I had a smile and a full belly.
Making soup on a Thursday night doesn't seem very exciting to most, but for me, it was amazing! Here's a picture of my lifesaver(at least for this week).
I'm thankful that as I get older, I continue to learn more about myself. So, when times are hard- you can find me in the kitchen. Where can I find you?
When life gets stressful and it seems like it's too much to bear, It's important to know what calms you- what brings you back to solid ground. This week was stressful for me, but I was able to level out my nerves by getting myself in "my zone" .
I like cooking, especially new recipes and cooking for others. Cooking is one of the things that gets me in "my zone". This may seem strange to some, but everyone has their own "zone". For you it may be running, reading, or gardening. As long as you have something that will always calm you in those stressful moments.
So, the other day, when my nerves were at their highest, I tried a new recipe. Italian Shrimp Stew. I got this recipe from a magazine while sitting under the dryer at the salon. I added my own touch and some Oven Toasted Grill Cheese on the side- and magic happened. I started out borderline migraine status and by the end of dinner I had a smile and a full belly.
Making soup on a Thursday night doesn't seem very exciting to most, but for me, it was amazing! Here's a picture of my lifesaver(at least for this week).
I'm thankful that as I get older, I continue to learn more about myself. So, when times are hard- you can find me in the kitchen. Where can I find you?
Saturday, March 5, 2011
"What If....?"
I realized this week that I live my life with too many "What If's".
Earlier this week my husband was complaining about a pain in his side. Now, this did alarm me mainly because he never complains and is never sick. He even set a doctor's appointment, so I knew then that he must be serious. I immediately went into my "What If's".
By the end of the day, I had him in emergency surgery with a life-long ailment ( in my own mind, of course). I worked myself up to the point that I could not function for the rest of the day. Nonetheless, the doctors did what they do best, ran all the necessary test, and he is fine- no ailments.
I made a vow to myself that I would work really really hard at eliminating all the "What If's" in my life. I know this is cliche, but "Life is too short". NO, IT REALLY IS! I mean, look at me-I'm about to be 30 in 4 months. I don't have time for "What If's". That is all......
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Always Have a Plan (viewing Mardi Gras through the lens of a soon-to-be 30 year old)
Well, it's Wednesday evening and I still haven't recuperated from my weekend getaway to New Orleans with my husband and the bff's!!! This is crazy! I mean, when I went 9 years ago, I had the time of my life, endured the longest road trip ever, slept on somebody's floor, and was ready for class the day after returning like I'd never skipped a beat. But, not this time. I am beat!
The reason I believe that I'm so beat is because we failed to stick to the plan. We had an itinerary (I know, so lame) that we somehow detoured from. We get there Friday and pretty much stay on track. Saturday morning, so far so good! But, then somebody (I'm not pointing fingers :-) decided that we should find "The Real World" House. Well, it sounded like a good idea, until we got stuck on the St. Charles street car with all the college students and locals for hours and hours. Big Mistake!
So the lesson learned : Always have a plan.... and stick to it! This applies to everything in life, not just trips to Mardi Gras when you're nearly thirty.
But, its trips like this one that really keeps us energetic and young. No matter if I'm turning 30, 40, or even 50, I (and all of us) need to do things that are so far out of my normal routine that I am forced to continue to grow as an individual. When I went to New Orleans during my undergraduate years, I was all about the Mardis Gras night time scene. This time, I had the opportunity to visit some of the historical sites like the cemeteries and reflect on the aftermath of the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina. Completely different focus, but still fun! And then there are the moments that are unforgettable regardless of age, ie: the cheapest glass of wine ever, seeing your crappy waiter from lunch out at the evening festivities, and walking in on a complete stranger in the bathroom because he was too drunk to care to lock the door. Classic moments!
In sum: I did it...I survived....and I'll do it again!
The reason I believe that I'm so beat is because we failed to stick to the plan. We had an itinerary (I know, so lame) that we somehow detoured from. We get there Friday and pretty much stay on track. Saturday morning, so far so good! But, then somebody (I'm not pointing fingers :-) decided that we should find "The Real World" House. Well, it sounded like a good idea, until we got stuck on the St. Charles street car with all the college students and locals for hours and hours. Big Mistake!
So the lesson learned : Always have a plan.... and stick to it! This applies to everything in life, not just trips to Mardi Gras when you're nearly thirty.
But, its trips like this one that really keeps us energetic and young. No matter if I'm turning 30, 40, or even 50, I (and all of us) need to do things that are so far out of my normal routine that I am forced to continue to grow as an individual. When I went to New Orleans during my undergraduate years, I was all about the Mardis Gras night time scene. This time, I had the opportunity to visit some of the historical sites like the cemeteries and reflect on the aftermath of the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina. Completely different focus, but still fun! And then there are the moments that are unforgettable regardless of age, ie: the cheapest glass of wine ever, seeing your crappy waiter from lunch out at the evening festivities, and walking in on a complete stranger in the bathroom because he was too drunk to care to lock the door. Classic moments!
In sum: I did it...I survived....and I'll do it again!
Monday, February 14, 2011
In the Spirit of Valentine's Day!
Valentine's Day is the day of LOVE! The day that everyone expresses how much they LOVE their significant others, friends, and family.
So...In the Spirit of Valentine's Day, I got to thinking about all the people and things that I LOVE and how the LOVE that we have for certain people/things really shape who we are. Knowing what you LOVE determines in so many ways what you will accept, tolerate, fight for, stand for, and even eliminate. Knowing what you LOVE gives you the tools to tailor fit your life and make it 'one-of-a-kind'. In other words, you learn what you want to spend your money on, waste your time with, and allow into your circle.
As I approach 30, I truly know what/who I LOVE! And knowing what I LOVE gives me a better understanding of who I am. I LOVE:
So...In the Spirit of Valentine's Day, I got to thinking about all the people and things that I LOVE and how the LOVE that we have for certain people/things really shape who we are. Knowing what you LOVE determines in so many ways what you will accept, tolerate, fight for, stand for, and even eliminate. Knowing what you LOVE gives you the tools to tailor fit your life and make it 'one-of-a-kind'. In other words, you learn what you want to spend your money on, waste your time with, and allow into your circle.
As I approach 30, I truly know what/who I LOVE! And knowing what I LOVE gives me a better understanding of who I am. I LOVE:
- God
- mexican food(especially queso dip)
- family
- ice cream(any flavor)
- the beach
- my husband
- the sound of rain
- a good cup of Joe
- feet(don't ask)
- push-up bras
- monica
- reality t.v.
- reading
- Cooper
- mini coopers( but, not the price tag)
- traveling
- being a woman
- being a black woman
- big walk-in closets
- spa sydell
- christmas
- having lunch with girlfiends
- myself
- talking (sometimes too much)
- my bff's
- cute dresses
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Let's Get Moving!
I joined the gym this week! Now, this may not seem like a big deal to most, but it is a big deal for me. I've never purchased a gym membership. I've always worked out at home or by simply running a few laps around the neighborhood or park. AND, I can be a bit lazy at times. I'll start working out and then I'll fall off after a while. This time: there are two things that are different. 1.) I'm paying for it...literally, and 2.) I'm never alone.
Both of these two factors creates accountability. Since I pay a monthly fee, I more motivated to actually go workout. I mean, who wants to pay for something and not use it? That would be like paying for Internet service every month, but never even turning on your laptop. Not gonna happen!
On another note, since I'm working out in a gym and not at home or in the neighborhood/park, I AM NEVER ALONE!. There are people watching as you walk in; waiting to see which machines you will be using; wondering what 'your deal' is. Then, there is the side-by-side comparisons. You know....the long row of treadmills and elliptical, where you have no choice but to create an instant split screen of yourself with the person ont he machine next to you. Even though everyone pretends like they're just 'doing their own thing', they're not. They are scoping everybody else out and then comparing them to themselves or comparing them to the person next to them. I know I sure was peeking over at the 19 year old "super chick" to my right yesterday who ran like a million miles in 20 minutes. So not fair! When we know that we are being watched, we want to be a better version of ourselves. Well, at least I do.
Nonetheless, we need accountability in every sector of our lives. It's accountability that makes us accomplished! So, Let's Get Moving! I know I am.
Both of these two factors creates accountability. Since I pay a monthly fee, I more motivated to actually go workout. I mean, who wants to pay for something and not use it? That would be like paying for Internet service every month, but never even turning on your laptop. Not gonna happen!
On another note, since I'm working out in a gym and not at home or in the neighborhood/park, I AM NEVER ALONE!. There are people watching as you walk in; waiting to see which machines you will be using; wondering what 'your deal' is. Then, there is the side-by-side comparisons. You know....the long row of treadmills and elliptical, where you have no choice but to create an instant split screen of yourself with the person ont he machine next to you. Even though everyone pretends like they're just 'doing their own thing', they're not. They are scoping everybody else out and then comparing them to themselves or comparing them to the person next to them. I know I sure was peeking over at the 19 year old "super chick" to my right yesterday who ran like a million miles in 20 minutes. So not fair! When we know that we are being watched, we want to be a better version of ourselves. Well, at least I do.
Nonetheless, we need accountability in every sector of our lives. It's accountability that makes us accomplished! So, Let's Get Moving! I know I am.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
I'm Sooo Done!
Today is the 21st and LAST day of my fast! I'm relieved and enlightened on so many levels. Being restricted on what I could eat got me to thinking about being more health conscious. Lord knows I need to since I'm turning 30 this year! But seriously, I plan to be more aware of not only just the food I "let in", but even the music/media, people, and thoughts that I "let in". Our daily choices have such a huge impact on our happiness and health. Just removing the negative (bad foods, bad thoughts, etc.) will create such amazing changes in our lives. I feel better physically after just 21 days of no caffeine, no sugars, no bread, no meat, and so many other things. Now, I'm not saying that I'll never have these things again- I'm just saying that I don't need them so often. I can only imagine how I'll feel after removing all negatives from my life. All in all, these last 21 days have been liberating! Even though my fast is officially over, I look forward to the next 21 days of changes, realizations, and new beginnings.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
This Can't Be Good....
Well....this is Day 3 of being snowed in due to the Georgia Winter Storm of 2011! Not that I don't like some down time, but fasting while being snowed in can be challenging. So challenging that I started watching Food Network: making a list of all the things I want to eat when I'm off my fast. Then the hubby said "This Can't be Good" And he is right! So now I'm making a list of all the things I want to do, see, accomplish, or be...either before I'm 30 or even afterwards. I'm sure this list will be much more productive for "my journey". Stay tuned......I intend to share my list once completed. What's on your list?
Saturday, January 8, 2011
And on the Seventh Day....
"On the seventh day God had finished his work of creation, so he rested[a] from all his work. And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, because it was the day when he rested from all his work of creation" Genesis 2: 2-3 NLT
Well, I'm on Day 7 of my fast, and I am impressed with myself. I have handled this so much better than ever before and for the most part I'm not the slightest bit phased by what I CAN'T eat. Instead, I have been so excited about all things that I CAN eat-those foods that I already love and new foods as well!
I'm not saying that this hasn't been a challenge on some levels. Believe me... I have craved a Chick-fil-A sandwich almost every other day. Counting those billboards on I-75 that say "Eat More chicken" And then yesterday, I had lunch with a fellow law school class mate and my cousin at Strip in Atlantic Station (they are known you their delicious steaks). The two of them ordered steak and potatoes, philly cheese steak and fries, and nachos with cheese and beef-ummm! But, it wasn't that big of a deal. I drank water while they had the appetizer and then I had a Sushi roll with avocado and cucumber for my entree. It was soooo good and I was soooo full when I left. During lunch, I was asked- "Why are you fasting? What's the point?" At that moment, I had the chance to really challenge my own motives.
I said (and actually meant) "Fasting is a way for me to stay focused on my goals of growing spiritually closer to God while discovering myself in the process. Every time I think about something great I would love to eat, I am reminded to pray, meditate, and re-group. It's keeping me centered." I said this and I believed this.
This is no longer about the food(what I can eat and can't eat). Its much bigger than that. As I reflect on this fast, I think back to 4 and 1/2 years ago when I was planning my wedding. I had purchased my wedding dress almost a year before our date and it fit perfectly. Well, when I tried it on about two months before our date, it wouldn't zip all the way. Oh boy! There was not even a second of contemplation, but pure determination- I was going to fit into that dress. So, I decided to eat super healthy(smoothies, fruits, veggies, water) and exercise regularly. And that, I did with no problem at all. I mean, you could've slapped me in the face with a slice of my favorite pizza and I wouldn't have licked the sauce off my mouth. I was set on an idea- end of story-period! Because at that point, it was no longer about the food (what I could eat and couldn't eat). It was about looking my best for the love of my life on our wedding day. Much bigger than food!
This fast is much bigger than food! It's about my journey, my relationship with God, and my many discoveries along the way- especially as I prepare to turn 30. So, it is through this realization that I find this fast to be not only 'do-able', but so necessary.
So on this 7th day of my fast, I feel a sense of completion- not fully- but partially. I feel that I have come full circle to understanding the meaning and basis of my reasons for fasting. And for now, that's enough for me. Until next time..
Well, I'm on Day 7 of my fast, and I am impressed with myself. I have handled this so much better than ever before and for the most part I'm not the slightest bit phased by what I CAN'T eat. Instead, I have been so excited about all things that I CAN eat-those foods that I already love and new foods as well!
I'm not saying that this hasn't been a challenge on some levels. Believe me... I have craved a Chick-fil-A sandwich almost every other day. Counting those billboards on I-75 that say "Eat More chicken" And then yesterday, I had lunch with a fellow law school class mate and my cousin at Strip in Atlantic Station (they are known you their delicious steaks). The two of them ordered steak and potatoes, philly cheese steak and fries, and nachos with cheese and beef-ummm! But, it wasn't that big of a deal. I drank water while they had the appetizer and then I had a Sushi roll with avocado and cucumber for my entree. It was soooo good and I was soooo full when I left. During lunch, I was asked- "Why are you fasting? What's the point?" At that moment, I had the chance to really challenge my own motives.
I said (and actually meant) "Fasting is a way for me to stay focused on my goals of growing spiritually closer to God while discovering myself in the process. Every time I think about something great I would love to eat, I am reminded to pray, meditate, and re-group. It's keeping me centered." I said this and I believed this.
This is no longer about the food(what I can eat and can't eat). Its much bigger than that. As I reflect on this fast, I think back to 4 and 1/2 years ago when I was planning my wedding. I had purchased my wedding dress almost a year before our date and it fit perfectly. Well, when I tried it on about two months before our date, it wouldn't zip all the way. Oh boy! There was not even a second of contemplation, but pure determination- I was going to fit into that dress. So, I decided to eat super healthy(smoothies, fruits, veggies, water) and exercise regularly. And that, I did with no problem at all. I mean, you could've slapped me in the face with a slice of my favorite pizza and I wouldn't have licked the sauce off my mouth. I was set on an idea- end of story-period! Because at that point, it was no longer about the food (what I could eat and couldn't eat). It was about looking my best for the love of my life on our wedding day. Much bigger than food!
This fast is much bigger than food! It's about my journey, my relationship with God, and my many discoveries along the way- especially as I prepare to turn 30. So, it is through this realization that I find this fast to be not only 'do-able', but so necessary.
So on this 7th day of my fast, I feel a sense of completion- not fully- but partially. I feel that I have come full circle to understanding the meaning and basis of my reasons for fasting. And for now, that's enough for me. Until next time..
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
I'm Fasting!!!
I've decided that the perfect way to start "my journey" to 30 and to discovering myself, is through fasting. I have done a fast several times before- sometimes successful, sometimes not- sometimes for the right reasons, sometimes for the wrong, and sometimes I just did it because "everyone else was doing it". Well, this time I doing it with a purpose.
For those of you who have never participated in a fast or even heard of a fast, then listen up. Fasting is a voluntary and deliberate abstinence from food (everyday conveniences) for the purpose of concentrated prayer. Some people use fasting as a way to lose weight or cleanse the body of toxins. Also, some may fast from other things, such as t.v., cell phone, intimate relations, etc.
I will be doing the 21 day Daniel Fast, which restricts me from eating everything tasty and tempting. Ugh! I usually eat pretty healthy anyway- but its just the thought that I CAN'T have something that makes me want it soooo much more. You know exactly what I'm talking about! We're all like this.
My focus during this fast: praying and seeking God's guidance for my life. I'll be discovery what my overall purpose is in life, so that I may achieve my greatest ever! I am currently on Day 3- and doing good so far. Well...I haven't pulled into the nearest DQ and ordered my favorite Snickers Blizzard yet. So, I'd say-I'm doing pretty good. If you want to join me and do your own fast, go to http://www.destinymetro.org/daniel-fast for more information and let me know your progress or struggles.
Here's a picture of one of my favorite meals so far during my time of fasting.
This was really, really good!!! Try it- even if you're not fasting! Until next time..........
For those of you who have never participated in a fast or even heard of a fast, then listen up. Fasting is a voluntary and deliberate abstinence from food (everyday conveniences) for the purpose of concentrated prayer. Some people use fasting as a way to lose weight or cleanse the body of toxins. Also, some may fast from other things, such as t.v., cell phone, intimate relations, etc.
I will be doing the 21 day Daniel Fast, which restricts me from eating everything tasty and tempting. Ugh! I usually eat pretty healthy anyway- but its just the thought that I CAN'T have something that makes me want it soooo much more. You know exactly what I'm talking about! We're all like this.
My focus during this fast: praying and seeking God's guidance for my life. I'll be discovery what my overall purpose is in life, so that I may achieve my greatest ever! I am currently on Day 3- and doing good so far. Well...I haven't pulled into the nearest DQ and ordered my favorite Snickers Blizzard yet. So, I'd say-I'm doing pretty good. If you want to join me and do your own fast, go to http://www.destinymetro.org/daniel-fast for more information and let me know your progress or struggles.
Here's a picture of one of my favorite meals so far during my time of fasting.
Grits or Oatmeal with Bananas and Cranberries
Sunday, January 2, 2011
I'll be Thirty in 6 Months!!!
I'll be Thirty in 6 Months!!! I realized this on yesterday as I brought in the New Year. Wow! 2011...That seems so ODD. But, no matter how odd it seems....It's here and I'll be Thirty in 6 Months!!!
I have a slight bit of anxiety about turning 30....an early mid-life crisis maybe? This may sound strange, but it's quite normal for me. I've always been a bit dramatic, if you will. Although freaking out over turning 30 is a bit dramatic, It's very real to me! It's scary and it's real!
I guess I'm asking myself some of the obvious questions: Have I done enough? Am I successful? Am I happy? Did I make the right choices? Am I a good person? The answers: I don't know.
Join me as I embark on a journey in Learning Lauraill- who I really am, where I'm going and all the stuff in between. It's going to get interesting.............
I have a slight bit of anxiety about turning 30....an early mid-life crisis maybe? This may sound strange, but it's quite normal for me. I've always been a bit dramatic, if you will. Although freaking out over turning 30 is a bit dramatic, It's very real to me! It's scary and it's real!
I guess I'm asking myself some of the obvious questions: Have I done enough? Am I successful? Am I happy? Did I make the right choices? Am I a good person? The answers: I don't know.
Join me as I embark on a journey in Learning Lauraill- who I really am, where I'm going and all the stuff in between. It's going to get interesting.............
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