Quickening

If you've ever been pregnant, you know it can be overwhelming at times. In the beginning, you don't have much assurance that things are going ok. It's too early to feel movement, so you just have faith. Recently, when I was feeling a little unsure, I felt a little wiggle in my abdomen. Quickening. Baby's way of saying, "Don't worry mommy, I'm good." I needed it.

I think God does the same thing for me. At times, my spirit feels empty, and a scripture will pop into my head. My favorite song on the radio. A reminder that all is well. Assurance that He is in control. God's way of saying, "Don't worry, daughter, I'm good." Mommies need reassurance, too. "Taste and see that the Lord is good..." (Ps. 34:8)

Driving Scared

A few short days ago, I was driving into work. Everything was business as usual. I was talking to my mom on my Bluetooth headset, and navigating the highway. Then something happened... Suddenly I saw breaklights in my lane, and I realized the lane had come to a screeching halt. I knew there was no way I could miss the car in front, so I hit the breaks and decided to swerve into the median. As I did, 2 other cars starting coming over simultaneously. As I struggled to control my car and avoid the other drivers, I narrowly missed slamming into the wall. In fact, according to the officer, my left side went up onto it.

The fear I felt was immediate. I thought I was dead. I thought of my unborn baby. Once my heart rhythm slowed down, I offered thanks to God for saving our lives.

As the day went on, I began to access the damage. Not to my car, because I didn't care. My mind. I instantly thought of the time I've been wasting on meaningless things. I realized my mortality and the indefinite time I'm promised on this earth. That could have been my last day. Since God kept me, I take that to mean He is mercifully giving me more time to complete the tasks He's given me. Perhaps this was a wake-up call. I am committed to making every day count and to enjoying even the simplest things. I also know that my daughter's prayer for my safety was heard that day and so many more. Thank you, Lord.

Inseparable

While doing my current events check on the net, I tripped over this story about enduring love. This Kansas couple was married 67 years and died within hours of one another! My heart was feeling all oooey and gooey. I've always said that I would like for me and my hubby to die like the couple in the Notebook, lying together within seconds of the other, so neither of us has to endure life without the other. Something that struck me about the article was the couple's commitment to their church. That's so important. It's so good to see a marriage that ends as a result of natural causes and not death from a destructive divorce.

Never Give Up

Rita Levi Montalcini, an Italian born scientist, celebrates her 100th birthday today. She says her mind is sharper now than it was when she was 20! The Yahoo article highlights her accomplishments including a Nobel Prize for medicine.

"Above all, don't fear difficult moments," she said. "The best comes from them." She talks of being forced to stop studying at the university because of sanctions created by dictator Benito Mussolini in the 1930s. The article describes her perseverance to research in a makeshift lab in her bedroom!

She's an inspiration. In spite of difficult odds and in spite of the limitations placed upon her due to gender and ethnic background, she is still going strong. With her snow-white crown of hair, she still addresses audiences. How incredible. If she can follow her dreams in the face of these circumstances, we have few excuses not to pursue the course God has laid before us.

Photo courtesy of jollyroger

Somewhat Disappointed (Possible Spoiler)

My husband and I have been anticipating our viewing of the movie Fireproof for quite a long time. After seeing all of the viewings at churches and the glowing reviews, we were prepared for cinematic magic. Unfortunately, I was disappointed. Now, before attacking me, please hear me out.

The storyline was pretty predictable, but I'm okay with that. I thought they did a fantastic job of shedding light on some of the problems in the couple's marriage. I enjoyed the banter and appreciated the racial diversity in the film.

Here's what I did not like. The husband had a porn addiction, while his wife participated in an emotional affair with a doctor she worked with. She is seen laughing and holding the hand of the doctor. She is spending too much time with him and seeking him out in the hospital. She doesn't even realize that he is also married! She never finds out.

The husband, at the behest of his father, takes a dare to try and save his marriage. He is repeatedly rebuffed by his wife throughout the process. It is quite realistic. While the husband ends up requesting forgiveness for his maltreatment of her over the years, she never does. That's my problem.

Bad marriages are rarely the fault of only one party. Although much of the spotlight was placed on his addiction and selfishness, there was also evidence of her indiscretions. Why then, did she not confess her emotional affair and repent to her husband? It could have happened simultaneously, but the writer chose to omit this. I actually think this was a huge mistake.

While the message of love was strong, I believe the message of forgiveness should be stronger. To me, the biggest message of God's love for us is His forgiveness. While forgiveness can be granted even if not requested, asking shows humility, and I believe it shows acknowledgment of a wrong. 1 John 1:9 speaks of first confessing our sins, then receiving forgiveness from God. Does it not apply to our spouse?

I don't want to knock the movie, because it had many wonderful components. It is definitely worth watching. I'm just drawing attention to a theme I thoughts should have been explored a little more deeply. As I've been married for quite a while, I realize the importance of forgiveness in my marriage. I understand the necessity of asking and granting forgiveness. I did read other reviews by Christians, and mine is not the only unfavorable one. If you've seen it, please let me know if think my reaction is over the top. Be honest.

The Best of Times

Recently a friend of mine posted a photo on Facebook and tagged me in it. This picture took me back almost 13 years ago to a time when the economy was good, and my life was pretty carefree. The image brought with it a rush of memories.

I enjoyed reading what everyone else wrote about the picture. The picture was taken on a camping trip that we took after graduation. It was filled with adventure and so much laughter. We got lost in the woods even though boy scouts were with us. We enjoyed food cooked over a campfire and the beautiful scenery of the water falls. I'm so thankful our parents trusted us enough to let us go.

It was one of the happiest memories of growing up. The beauty is that I has so many good friends that the great memories abound. I had the time of my life in junior high and high school. My friends were good people, and we did not get into trouble together. We had good clean legal fun. Movies and lots of eating. Some times just hanging out at one another's house or the Dairy Queen. I thank God for friends and for Facebook and amazing memories.

Distracted

Lately I've been so preoccupied. I've had so many random thoughts. My dreams have run amok. I don't know what God has next for us. My heart is to minister to women and girls. Besides for daily interactions, I just don't know where to begin. After praying and seeking God, I feel that I'm no closer to an answer.

At work, I've been mostly existing. I know it's not my calling, but it is a necessity right now. In this economy, a job is a blessing. Right now I am seeking God for renewed focus. Peace in the midst of uncertainty. Gratitude no matter what comes our way. Faith in the One who loves and cares for me unconditionally.