Miscellaneous Thoughts

Your Plan, His Plan … Oh What a Difference

Sometimes plans don’t work out as you planned. 

It has taken me much longer than I care to admit to figure out why that is.

I go along my merry way each day saying, “I’m going to do this or that. Mark off the checklist one by one, until …”

Something doesn’t feel right. Why are my tasks not getting done? Why is this plan not working out to meet so and so? Why am I just sitting here, procrastinating? Why am I not making that appointment? Why? Why? Why?

Then it hits me like a brick wall. 

Because I have not brought God into my calendar. The most important person, and I have not collaborated with Him. I have not sought out His guidance or direction. I have not asked what HIS plan is for my day. Today. Not tomorrow or the next day. But today. Sure, I can calendar in lunch with friends, or medical appointments, etc. That’s a given. With the many things going on, it’s a must or I’ll forget. 

If I do not go to the Lord first thing in the morning, I’m truly a scatter-brain. Not only that, but there is a void I can’t explain. I’m pretty sure it’s lack of His presence. Trying to do things on my own, in my own way … my plans. Not His, is a new 100% guaranty it’s not going to work out as I had planned. Especially, if it’s something He does not want me to do. Am I listening? Do I hear Him tell me yes, do that, or no absolutely not? 

You guessed it, probably not. I’m a slow learner, I suppose.

So, I’m here to tell you, don’t make the same mistakes I have by not taking all your concerns, your plans, your desires, to the Lord first thing. It will make a difference. We need to calendar in an appointment with God each morning, then thank Him each night for getting you through the day. I’m not saying things will always work out, but no matter what, whatever you have done, if you have done it with God, it was meant to be … or not to be. 

Are you listening? Are you hearing what He is telling you? Are you being still in the morning and having that intimate conversation with Him about your day? 

Oh, what a difference it will make. I promise you. He is the only guide for your life. He will never steer you in the wrong direction. Trust Him to take you on the right path. No matter what you are about to do, do it connected to Him. He’s already gone before you, making the way for you. 

That, my friends, is great peace and comfort. To me. It can be for you too. 

He makes many promises in His Word … the Bible. He doesn’t lie. Try it. Just. Try. It.  Oh, what a difference it will make. Don’t take my word for it, take His Word.

Jeremiah 29:11; Psalm 119:105; Proverbs 3:5-6

Be Blessed,

Chrissy Drew

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Miscellaneous Thoughts

Grief

I recently had a conversation with a friend, who had yet another significant loss in her life. It saddened me.

Grief isn’t something we can wish away. It’s like tidal waves, one moment memories come crashing in, bringing you to your knees, the next, a calm sea of joy.

Tears flow at any given time, when thoughts of our loved one rushes in. The despair and thinking how unfair.

What we must tell ourselves … it’s okay. It’s okay to cry. It’s okay to miss them. It’s okay to feel lost. Not being able to talk with them, to hear their voice, to hug them. To laugh or cry with. To share milestones or experiences with.

The what ifs begin infiltrating your mind. If only I stayed in touch more. If only I took the time. If only I said I was sorry. Now it’s too late. On and on.

But those what ifs are a direct line from the enemy. Nip those thoughts as soon as they form. Life happens, time gets away. Your loved one knew. Their life went on, until…

One day, and only God knows when, you will be able to recall memories with joy, and your smile will hug your heart.

Then you will begin to heal from your broken heart. Then you will know, those memories will “live” on forever. Then you will realize, they would want you to continue among the land of the living. To live your life abundantly, even through the void, the empty void in your heart.

There will be some who won’t have the right words to say to comfort you, as they’ve not experienced the same loss. They only need to be there. No words will take away the pain anyway. Support helps. But for those of us, who have been through a devastating loss, do understand the pain. We can pray them through the journey of their dearly departed.

The year, 2000, was a difficult one for me. In May, 2000, we lost our Daddy. In October, 2000, we lost our only brother. He was just about to turn 61. That was a hard loss. Two years later, our Mom. Then, in 2011, my Mother-in-law, and in 2012, my very best friend. She knew me so well. We laughed so hard, her usually AT me. We celebrated our birthdays together. I still celebrate with her in spirit, and miss her every day. When I say I understand the grief, I do.

We will all grieve differently. There is no right or wrong way. There is no time limit.

What there is – is God. He is always there. Always. He knows the grief as His only Son died for ALL of us. I trust He will hold each and every believer up in times of sorrow. We also know His joy when we are comforted by His Word. Believe in that!

May God bless this difficult journey with peace, comfort, and loving memories as they come rushing in.

Ecclesiastes 3: 1-2 (NIV)

1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:

2 A time to be born and a time to die.

With much love and blessings,

Chrissy Drew

 

 

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Miscellaneous Thoughts

Ever Feel Invisible in a Crowded Room?

Have you ever felt “invisible” in a crowded room? Or, have you been left out of a celebratory milestone of a loved one, you thought you were close with? Maybe you have felt your voice was being drowned out over those louder.

Yes. Me too. Many, many times.

Not long ago, I attended a weekend conference with over 200 people.

Three of us gals traveled together, roomed together, sat together.

It was our first time—together.

The road trip consisted of get-to-know each other on a personal level. One would ask a question, and it applied to all of us, each given a chance to answer. It wasn’t long before we realized we all had the same issue—we are invisible around many.

We decided there were two introverts (me being one) and one ambivert.

Comments like, “I’ve met people three or four times and they still don’t know my name.” Or, “I’ll sit in an empty row and not a soul will sit next to me.”

That started what would be a hilarious weekend.

It isn’t always—rarely ever is, a funny topic. Nope, it’s real.

When in a group setting or a meeting, there may be those strong—extremely strong personalities. They seem to love hearing themselves talk. Timid, shy or introverts, don’t stand a chance with these types. The inner voice is screaming, “LET ME SPEAK!” Yet, the shyness, says, “Whatever, I wouldn’t be able to anyway.”

Even at the conference, when an audience participation question was asked, I stood there, with my hand in the air, and those all around me were picked. Yep. Like that.

I started considering myself a, “wall-weed.” Kind of like the wall-flower…only I would travel around the edge of a room observing, for fear if I tried to speak, I’d once again either get drowned out, or get looks like I have two heads. Seriously.

It’s taken me, well, my whole life to realize God has gifted me with hearing—to be a listener, not a speaker. Unless, by chance you know me, actually, maybe not even then. There’s always someone who has to have a better story / experience. You know, a bigger fish-type person. It just has to be okay. Evidently, they need to, so let them. Otherwise…oh wait, there is no otherwise.

Even in close relationships, where you think you should feel safe, wanted and respected. It’s not always the case. There may be times when you are left out of a gathering, a milestone or exciting news. Whether it was intentional or not, it’s not a great feeling. More like feeling as though you are chopped liver. No consoling. No excuses. It’s just…why? And then, it’s on them, not me. Right? It’s their loss. The self-pep-talks. And, you know what, it’s all good. Because you know what is important in your life. We can’t let petty matters get us down.

We can’t change others. We can only change our own reactions. I know, it’s cliché. But it’s true. We can choose to feel ignored or insignificant. Or, we can choose to be the bigger, more mature person and just let it go. Be the beautiful you God made you. After all, He made you, He listens to you, and He sure does love you.

Wall-weed and all!

Above all, put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts. Colossians 3:14-15 (NKJV)

Have a beautiful day. This yellow rose is for you.

Chrissy Drew

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Miscellaneous Thoughts | Uncategorized

Seasons in Life

What do you think of when you hear the word seasons? Winter, spring, summer or fall? Well, of course.

Have you ever pondered seasons of your life? Specifically, people in and throughout?

I thought of how people come into and depart from our lives. The reasons for the seasons. Some stay longer than others, even family members come and go.

Friends, for instance, those first ones, maybe from pre-school through Kindergarten. Those awkward moments meeting them, some shy (like me), some not-so-much. Learning to share your precious toys, to become thoughtful, considerate, and respectful of others, as well as their property. Moments hard to understand as a child. I call that the “first growth season.”

They are in your life to learn how to get along with others. What it means to be in a group of different-not-quite-like-me, children. Some of these same children will remain in your life forever—whether close geographically, or not.

Other people you may meet in junior-high. I called this the “Influential season.” Peer pressure is an issue. Wanting to be like the popular, so called, in-crowd, even if they are not the right people to hang with. It’s a time to prove what your character is all about, who you are. This time can be difficult. Choices aren’t exactly easy. It’s when you choose or lose friends. Judging others—others judging you. At times, you observe, if you are wise enough, from the outside and realize the in-crowd isn’t all that. They are more into themselves. They are cliques, sometimes bullies, at that age and they can be cruel, just to save face with their “friends.” Many teens today appear to be worse in those areas. Especially now with the internet. Cyber-bullying and teen suicide is widespread. Picking the right friends is crucial during these years. Knowing who they truly are—those who know you and continue to be there for each other, during awkward seasons of influence—the tween years. We all know how teens know everything and will argue with adults—because you know—adults haven’t lived through teenage years. All of sudden they are thirty!

Then it’s high school. Teachers, evidently know nothing. They are in the classroom to make the student’s life, miserable. Not like they don’t have a degree. Teenagers! While there are some teachers and counselors who go the extra mile, and have the desire to guide and help—it appears rare. They are the ones, for me, I remember. Sports, cheer, some in band, some in gangs, some know where or what they want to be when they graduate, some not-so-much. It’s a tough time now-a-days. This season, I call the “Barely mature season.”

After high school, if you attend college and “if” you know the path you want to take, you are blessed. You have a head on your shoulder and willing to do the work, success will be the reward. In my humble opinion, many of college students aren’t mature enough to be there. They think and act like they are still in high school. They haven’t been taught respect, consideration of others, ethics, or responsibility. I call this, the “Season of confusion, entitlement and ignorance.” One, I hope turns around quick-like. Our future depends on them.

Adulthood. When the people in your life—mentors, advisors, good friends, really good friends, may possibly be there always. When they steer you in the right direction—influence you, are wise, loyal, trustworthy, and they care. You care about them. They are prayer warriors, you can depend on them. We comfort each other. Are comfortable with each other. But, even during these years, people will come and go. Each in your life for a reason. Spouses, children, family and friends. Some are in our lives momentarily, some forever. No selfish reasons for this season. People are like seasons, here for a while and then gone. And if you are fortunate enough—some loved ones stay throughout all. I call this season, “Final seasons of life.”

I’ve been blessed with a handful of people who have stayed around forever—some chose me, I them. For all, I’m grateful. They fill me with joy, happiness, sadness, comfort and love.

I wrote this article as it occurred to me, I really hadn’t thought much about my past in such a way as there really are “seasons” in portions of our lives. We seem to just go through them without a second thought as to who may be in our lives at any given moment. Maybe it will help you to become more aware of these special people God puts in our paths for those times. Or maybe, you can think back and wonder about certain experiences with certain people. Are they still in your life, or were they placed in it momentarily, possibly to get you through a trial? Or a milestone? Food for thought, right?

I pray your journey through seasons of life are filled with miracles and blessings.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (King James Version)
3:1 To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.

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Miscellaneous Thoughts | Weekly Inspiration

Fitting In…Or Not, The Choice is Yours

squarepeg-300x200
I’m more of an introvert, sometimes shy. Unless I know someone, I pretty much stand around and observe. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not from lack of trying.

Maybe it’s the way I look, or the way I stand, or how I act, or how I’m not able to articulate what I want to say, so I ramble. Not sure, no one has ever mentioned anything to me. But then again, what are they supposed to say…to an introvert? “Hey, introvert, cat got your tongue?”

I do know, I’m not alone. There are many of us floundering in a crowd. Or sometimes at a conference or a party. Maybe I should hold a sign that asks, “Introvert? Come and join me in the awkwardness?”

Someone once wrote, “If you would get to know me, you may find me interesting, loving, caring, and somewhat funny.” Oh wait, that someone is me. Knee slapper.

I found myself in many of those awkward moments at a place I worked. I didn’t fit in with what they considered the in-crowd. I wasn’t “like” them. They never gave me a chance. Only a handful did. For that, I’m actually thankful. God knew I needed those few in my life who “got” me and accepted me for who I am. I’ll forever be grateful to them. Believe it or not I learned a ton from those who pretty much shunned me, gossiped about me and quite frankly were rude. I would never treat anyone that way…ever.

Sometimes at churches too. One would think church would be a safe place. Where everyone accepts all types. No matter how old or young, women can be cliquey.

Merriam Webster’s dictionary defines a “clique” as: a narrow exclusive circle or group of persons; especially: one held together by common interests, views, or purposes.

So, church? Where common interests and purpose should be about the love for Christ and His church…His people? I’m not saying all churches. But I have had some uncool experiences.

When I see these cliques, I run as fast as I can. They are not for me. I don’t even bother with them. They may not intend to be hurtful, but for a sensitive, shy introvert, it can put anxiety in overload. Steer clear the mind says. A total sense of shielding the heart. Not worth it.

Sounds a lot like a rejection issue, right? In a way, I suppose it is. The difference being, knowing the difference.

I’m blessed to have family and close friends who love me and weave me into their fold, no matter what. And I, them. Blessed beyond measure.

Writing this wasn’t about woe is me, the pitiful introvert. I’m writing this because I know I’m not alone. And, I want you to know God loves you as you are, exactly where you are in life. He made you perfectly—You! He’s not telling us to “fit in” everywhere we go, but to pray for everyone we meet. Whether they know you or not. I do a lot of praying. ~smile. There may be pain behind someone’s smile, who needs your genuine smile. They may be going through something unbearable and just trying to get through the day. Everyone has a story not all are aware of. Introverts usually keep it all wrapped up tight and cozy inside.

So, the next time I/we go to a place where there is a crowd, smile, lift your head high and know you are a Daughter of a King. He will never leave you. He loves you right where you are. And why wouldn’t He? He formed you before you…were you.

We don’t fit into another’s mold. We aren’t borrowed Jello molds. We are, who we are. Embrace that. Right?

Be blessed.

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Miscellaneous Thoughts | Weekly Inspiration

How Did That Happen?

Baby

So age is just a number?  My current “number” states eligibility for SS. Whhhhaaat? My son, Ry, asked me, “Ma, how did that happen?” I chuckled. Isn’t that the question of a lifetime? Where does the time go? Seriously. I cannot believe I’m well past half of my life.

I told him I had no idea but that I was thankful for each and every sunrise.

Obviously, I cannot remember when, where, how or who took this baby picture. I only know it was a very long time ago. The span between then and now is also a long time. Do I remember all the years? No. Heck no. I remember many milestones though. Especially the birth of both sons. How in the world are they both now in their 40’s? HOW? How in the world am I a grandmother of four and the oldest is nineteen? HOW? HOW? HOW? I mean, I still don’t know what I want to be when I grow up, let alone grow old-er.

Time stops for no one. God knows when our time will stop. For Him I am thankful. He gives life. He gives the sunrises and sunsets. He offers His hand in all things wonderful—all around us, daily.

So, as another birthday is in the not-too-distant future, I want to thank all those from the top of my heart, who have and will celebrate with me—my God-given day of birth. I want to thank all those who reign in every single year filled with hope, joy, love, fun, smiles/laughter, with me. I have much to be thankful for—past, present and future gifts. Gifts I call family, friends, and health.

I love you all.

Many blessings,

Chrissy D. <><

This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Miscellaneous Thoughts

A New Journey

MorroRock

In a million years the word “retirement” only happened to other people. It wasn’t a word in my vocabulary, until NOW.

I’m not ready…so I thought. Thinking…that’s what gets me in so much trouble.

Remaining at the same company for 17 years has its pros and cons. I’ll start with the cons.

Cons:

  • Remaining at a company for 17 years.
  • It usually becomes hum drum…car is in auto-pilot.
  • The feeling of being stuck. Where can I go from here?
  • Is this all there is?
  • Multi-tasking is not a good thing.
  • Most people are out for themselves. It’s a brutal and dog-eat-dog world.

Then reality checks in. Boom. Seventeen years of your life and then you’re out of there!

Pros:

  • It’s a grand accomplishment to stay at a company for 17 years.
  • Gaining of knowledge of all sorts of things. In my case, software, technology, training, different cultures.
  • Learning what you want and don’t want to do going forward.
  • You learn about people you want to spend your day with and those who might be toxic and
    you RUN. You now have the option.
  • Me time. I don’t have to rush in the morning. I can take my time to do my devotionals and pray
    and breathe.
  • No traffic jitters.
  • If I want to view the sunrise, I can.
  • Too many more to continue.

I’m sure you get the jest of what I’m saying.

For me it came quick. It wasn’t a planned event, by me…but it was by God. So, it was a matter of accepting His purpose and moving onward. Tough love.

I decided to go straight into volunteer work for the next year anyway. Only He knows if I will continue after the year commitment. My plans are not usually God’s. That’s the beauty of knowing He has a plan for all of us. (Jeremiah 29:11)

I’m still trying to wrap my head around this “retirement” thing, but I’m certain I’m going to get the hang of it quite soon.

My youngest son calls it my “re-invent-me” time. I think he’s right. Possibilities are endless.

Onward…

Miscellaneous Thoughts

Deep Down…

Butterfly

Deep Down

After my blog about “Purpose” I was thrown into a whirlwind of emotions. Spiritual warfare? Most likely.

However, in the midst of my 61 day journey for purpose, I was tossed into an unwelcomed health issue. Not that health issues are ever welcomed. But, finding my purpose at that moment was just getting well. To help, I seriously had to go through some of my own writings to figure out what I needed to do.

Ask God.

So I asked. I prayed. I sought. I so desperately needed to hear His voice.

Nothing. But why? Was I blocking even His strength and help? What is going on?

Deeper I went.

Today, I have yet another appointment to “help” with this issue. I just want to be well again.

As I prayed, did my devotionals and hand-journaling this morning, I asked the Lord to give me guidance and direction. I have hope that only He can give.

I felt His loving touch upon my spirit. I know He’s here. Closer to the surface than I realized.

Hope…My hope is in You Jesus.

I will get through this phase in my life, with His help.

Amen?

This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast.  Hebrews 6:19 (NKJV)
Be blessed, have faith and Hope,

Chrissy D. <><

Remember…G.i.g.G.l.e.® = God is great God loves everyone!