Wishing you a merry Christmas!

Hello everyone--- I hope this Christmas season leaves you in good spirits and with a joyful heart as we look towards the coming of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. This has truly been a wonderful first year of blogging and I thank all of you for your continued support! Here are a few stats for this year:

• 12 very thoughtful comments from friends and family
• 24 posts for your inspiration... today and everyday!
• 375 page views... Meaning nearly 400 people were inspired and encouraged by the thoughts and words written here!
• An audience from the United States, Germany, Egypt, United Kingdom, Netherlands, and Taiwan... inspiration flowing around the globe!

When I look at how much this blog has impacted people's lives, not just here in the U.S., but all over the globe, I can't help but feel in awe over how good God is and how well He distributes His gifts!

Blessings this Christmas and always,
Emelie

Find your purpose

Inspired Thought...
Everyone has a God-given purpose. But unfortunately, many people misinterpret what it is to have a purpose. Most think that "having a real purpose" is being a hero who rescues someone from drastic circumstances, or a celebrity who is rich and famous. But it is exactly how you determine what the word "purpose" means. According to Dictionary.com, the word "purpose" is defined as "the reason for which something exists". But I like the second definition even better: "an intended or desired result, an end goal". In other words, your purpose has nothing to do with fame and fortune. It has everything to do with desiring something, and doing whatever it takes to achieve it. For example, any teacher can understand the desire to have each and every one of their students succeed, and therefore, they work hard to make education interesting and effective. That is a teacher's purpose. And that purpose is the result of a desire and much time and effort.  Ninety-nine percent of the people who have had the most influence in my life have not been celebrities or superheroes, but average, everyday people who work hard for the good of others. People like my parents, grandparents, siblings, teachers, pastors, friends, even the really nice clerk at the grocery store. Take the time today to thank those who have lived out their own special purpose in your life.

Inspired Action...
So you may be asking yourself, "What exactly is my purpose?" It can't possibly be sitting in a cubicle all day long answering the phone, or doing nothing but laundry and dishes! Well, as a matter of fact, yes, that is your purpose. WHAT!?! That can't be! Obviously, I've fallen off my rocker! But, just stop for a second and look at it from this angle. If you were to sit at home all day eating bon-bons in front of the TV, you wouldn't answer that phone call from the elderly lady who is sick and desperately needs health insurance. Or, if you just left all of those dirty clothes and dishes just sitting in the washer, you wouldn't ever be able to know the joy of having more than one pair of pants or a hot meal,  unlike our friends who go to bed cold and hungry. My point is this: Everything, EVERY thing has a purpose, a purpose that is important and should be treasured. The trick is to learn how to accept that purpose, and to live it out to the best of your ability. Try doing today's ordinary things with a spirit of having a truly important purpose. So, put on those rubber gloves, grab some soap, and get to those dishes!

Inspired Living...
You can help others discover their true purpose by strongly encouraging them in their own personal dreams and desires. Especially encourage them in the things that make them happy, for that is where they will most likely give their all. And of course, be sure to live out your own purpose with joy and the light and life of Christ.

Waiting... the ultimate test for our patience

Inspired Thought...
On Sunday, we began a new season in the church, often known as "the season of waiting", or Advent. I'd like to take a few moments to reflect upon the purpose of waiting and on practicing the virtue of patience. I remember hearing as a young child (especially around Christmas time when the desire to rip off the wrapping paper is ever so strong!) the phrase, "Good things come to those who wait." But why must I wait if I know what I want? Why can't I just have it right now? Now that I'm older, I can see the importance and even the beauty of waiting and being patient. Just think about all of the young couples that are expecting children. What better way to get closer to your spouse, your parents (the child's future grandparents), and essentially to God, than preparing for a new child to enter the world? In the church, that is the purpose of Advent: to become closer to God and to each other as we are preparing for Jesus's birth. Also, maybe a time of waiting is a time for us to discover things we never knew before, whether that is about each other or our world. Use your time of waiting wisely by learning about the world around you, rather than wasting it with being impatient.

Inspired Action...
The next time you are waiting in line, try doing some of these things instead of resorting to impatience:

• Look at the people and things around you. I once read in a book about "people-watching" and have found it a very entertaining past time ever since. If you'd like, you can even make up stories behind the people you see. For example, the man with the eye patch could be a pirate who is on his way to discover buried treasure, or the lady with the dark sunglasses could be an FBI agent on a dangerous mission. Get as creatively crazy as you want!
• Strike up a conversation with the person beside you. Ask them about what they're buying and if they think it's a good buy, or simply smile and say, "How are you?"
• Take a moment to breathe. You're not doing anything else of importance, so why not supply yourself with some good, clean oxygen?

Inspired Living...

Waiting can be such a beautiful thing, especially when it gives us the time to stop and smell the roses. Encourage others in your life who seem impatient and stressed to stop, let everything wait for a few moments, and just take a breather. This week, if your boss or spouse seems worn to a frazzled little nub, invite them to take a few deep breaths with you. Or you can gently remind them that it will not be the end of the world if they take a break and just "let go" for a while. After all, most of the time, it can wait. 

  

Learn to sit still

Inspired Thought...
As I am sitting here, writing this post, it is amazing how much continues to go on around me, even though I am sitting still. I can hear the hum of the computer, the revving of car engines, the clang of silverware as my family eats lunch upstairs. I can smell the fresh breezes blowing through my open window and the fragrant burst from my automatic air freshener. I can sense life moving on, even while I am sitting in silence. Sometimes we get so caught up in the momentum of everyday life, that we forget it's okay to stop, sit still for a minute, and simply do nothing. Nothing. No answering the phone, no responding to oh-so-important texts and e-mails. No washing the dishes, no folding the laundry. No talking, no thinking, no listening. Just being.

Inspired Action... 
Join me now in shutting out the craziness of life, and just being in the presence of God, in the presence of peace, in the presence of silence. Close your eyes and imagine the most restful place you can think of. Sitting in front of the fire wrapped in a warm, soft blanket... Lying in a meadow of daisies... Drinking tea on a rainy afternoon... Hear the sounds of that moment. The crackle of the fire... The song of birds... The pitter, patter of rain on the window... Smell the fragrances of that moment. Salty wood smoke... Fresh flowers... Peppermint tea leaves... Feel the feelings of that moment. The warmth from the fire... The rays of sunshine on your face... The hot tea rolling down your throat... Breathe in... 1... 2... 3... Breathe out... 1... 2... 3...

If you found this activity helpful , I encourage you to make it a regular part of your daily routine. Also, share this post with someone in your life who could learn to take a breather every once in a while. And always remember the beauty of busyness, but also the beauty of stillness...

"In the midst of movement and chaos, keep stillness inside of you." --- Deepak Chopra

Who are you not to be?

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same."

― Marianne Williamson, Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of "A Course in Miracles"

 I absolutely love this quote that was featured in the inspirational film, "Akeelah and The Bee". And it is so true! I find that I never expect people to appreciate me, to like me, to enjoy being in my presence. So when they make some small gesture that shows that they DO appreciate me, I'm rather shocked. 

The other night I was at a soccer game when a familiar face looked in my direction and waved. Assuming the wave was for someone else, I ignored them. But I soon realized that the wave was intended for me, and waved back, both ashamed and amazed. But why should I have to feel impressed when someone acknowledges me? I'm a great person! Of course they should be acknowledging me! This week, every time I find myself asking, "Who am I to be appreciated?" I'm going to say aloud ten times, "Who am I NOT to be?"

 The other part of this quote that I find profound is the final line: "And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same."  Not only is this quote reminding us to be confident in ourselves, it tells us that by personally expressing confidence we are encouraging others in their own self confidence. 

So this week be sure to remember how truly special you are. Know with confidence that you are loved, cherished, treasured, appreciated, and adored. Stand up tall, put a grin on your face, and bask in the warmth of God's love.

Read life like a book

Inspired Thought...
One of my favorite past times has always been reading. I've read thousands of books: mysteries, fantasies, adventures, biographies, historical fiction, realistic fiction, nonfiction; I've read thick books, thin books, tall books, short books, red books, blue books( that one's for you Dr. Seuss!); I even enjoy the look, the feel, and the smell of books! As a writer, I even go so far as to write down excerpts of books that I like to give me ideas for my own writing. So why all this talk about books? Well, if there's one thing I've learned about reading, it is the beautiful fact that a book is the only place in the world where you can escape your life for a few minutes and share in the emotions and experiences found within the story. If you're like me, you would probably do or say something in the realm of a book that you would NEVER do in real life. That's part of the reason why I enjoy reading so much. But my challenge for you today is this: What would happen if you handled your life with the same confidence that you experience in the realm of a book? For example, in books the good guy always gets the bad guy. Well, if you know you're the "good guy", you better get started on defeating that "bad guy". Or if the princess always finds the prince of her dreams in books, maybe we can be more hopeful for our own dreams to come true. Read life like a book and become a knight in shining armor or a beautiful princess!

Inspired Action...
Remember doing roleplay as a young child? Try handling life's problems in the same way by determining who is the "good guy", who is the "bad guy", how does a situation like this usually play out in stories, and how you can defeat the "bad guy". For example, if you are suddenly diagnosed with cancer or some other illness, you would determine yourself as the "good guy" and the cancer as the "bad guy". You can be comforted by the fact that in stories, it is usually the good guy who defeats the bad guy. Ways of defeating the "bad guy" might include: chemotherapy or another treatment, getting lots of exercise, eating healthy, having strong relationships, a good faith life, etc.

Inspired Living...
By having the confidence and courage of a knight in shining armor, you are benefitting not only yourself, but others as well. If it weren't for the confidence and courage of those fighting for their country, America would not be as safe. If it weren't for the confidence and courage of those who start projects that support the poor and the homeless, many more people in the world would be suffering from poverty. Now I'm not implying that you should quit your job and join the military or start a multi-million dollar project, I'm just encouraging you to step out of your comfort zone and do a good deed for someone else. Take a deep breath and invite your newest co-worker to lunch. Roll those shoulders back and write a sympathy card to a neighbor. Yes, we owe a debt of gratitude to those who sacrifice their lives for our country, but I believe that those who perform simple, loving tasks for the benefit of others deserve our gratitude just as much.

Remembering 9/11

I just wanted to take a moment and remember all of those who died in the tragedy of 9/11. Although I don't remember much about what happened that day, I was so little, my heart grieves for those whose lives ended in the midst of what might have been an average day. I am very grateful to the firemen, police officers, and others who sacrificed themselves in rescuing other victims. I pray for the families of all of these people, that they might know God's love and feel His comforting presence surrounding them.

A "green thumb's" up for "The Odd Life of Timothy Green"

"The Odd Life of Timothy Green" is not just a children's movie. People of all ages can learn something from it and be touched by the truly magical life of Timothy Green. "The Odd Life of Timothy Green" is the story of a couple who can't have children but whose desire is so strong that their dream indeed does come true... just not in the way you'd expect. Their son came from a hole in the garden and has leaves(yes, leaves!) growing out of his ankles. Overjoyed, but somewhat mystified, the Greens welcome Timothy into their home and get him involved with school, soccer, and life as a ten-year-old. And yet, it's not just the leaves that make Timothy unique, it is the way he touches the lives of everyone he meets. Making a dying man laugh, a cranky old woman beautiful, and a very unusual girl feel confident in herself are his specialty. I highly recommend seeing this thought-provoking, moving film made for the whole family.

Create balance

Inspired Thought...
Ahh... fall. The wonderful time of year when the carefree days of summer are over and it's back to the grindstone. (In fact, it is the craziness of the season that has me neglecting to write my blog for over a month! Yikes!) But this year, I'm going to do things a little differently. I'm going to work on creating balance in my life between what needs to be done and what could wait... between what's only passing and what is constant... between what does and doesn't matter most.  I like this quote by Jessye Norman: "Problems arise in that one has to find a balance between what people need from you and what you need for yourself."  This fall, I will try to focus on spending more time with my family and friends, making time if I have to, and being sure to take a moment and do something for myself each day. Also, at any time when life feels out of control, try to find the balance that does exist. For example, if I am beginning to feel impatient while waiting in line at the supermarket, I oftentimes look for a young child to observe. Seeing their peace and joy at the simplest things makes me feel as though the world is always at rest somewhere, even when I'm not.

Inspired Action...
I am a big believer in to-do lists, but it is the context of the list that gets me stressed. Why not make a to-do list that is full of positive, energizing, healthy activities that benefit you, and not your boss?!?! Give it a try! This is what my to-do list might look like for today:

• Give a loved one a bear hug and smooch
• Eat just one more chocolate-chip cookie... (Okay, maybe this isn't so healthy, but I believe in cheating every so often!)
• Take a walk and enjoy the beauty of nature
• Be a couch potato and watch a feel-good Disney movie (Not so healthy either, but I just took a walk to burn off that cookie!)
• Write in my journal
• Pray and read scripture

Inspired Living...
Be sure to encourage others around you to slow down and just live in the moment. If you see a co-worker struggling with a report, invite them to take a quick stroll with you or share in a cup of joe. If you are driving with someone who is frustrated with the traffic, gently remind them that the traffic provides a few more minutes for the two of you to chat.

Make the most of EVERY moment...

Inspired Thought...
Life is full of moments that, at first glance, may seem small and trivial, but really hold great meaning. For example, in the eyes of parents of newborns, a first smile, hiccup, yawn, or word is cause for celebration. Meanwhile, others do all of these things several times a day, and many hardly give these things a second glance. But in spite of all this, believe it or not, it is these small, yet special, moments that are most memorable. Today, I am encouraging you to make the most of these "bite-sized moments", to give that smile a second glance, and celebrate in the gifts, of all shapes and sizes, that God has blessed us with.

Inspired Action...
Every night, I always start my bedtime prayer with a list of things that happened within that day that I am grateful for. I have even gone so far as to thank God for the friendly cashier that helped me at the grocery store, or the wave I received from the neighbor next door. Here are a few "bite-sized moments" that you can thank God for:

• waking up to a beautiful sunrise
• sharing a hug with a loved one
• warm, sweet hazelnut lattes
• taking a walk over lunch break
• receiving a smile from a passerby
• a basket full of beans picked fresh from the garden
• reading with your child

Inspired Living...
Once you have learned to recognize the beauty of "bite-sized moments", it's time to start creating some small, but special, moments for others. One of my favorite "bite-sized moments" to share with someone is a smile. I remember reading a quote somewhere that stated, "You're only as beautiful as your smile." Don't be afraid to share something as beautiful as a smile with a loved one or even a complete stranger. Your smile may mean more to them than you know.

Using your imagination can reduce stress

The other day I tried the most refreshing thing, something I probably hadn't done in a while, and that was having what I call an "imagination session". I think of imagination as a beautiful state of mind where there are no stresses, worries, and problems, simply all too sweet perfection. My imagination is the one thing that allows me to let go of my current situation and picture myself in a happy, peaceful environment. Here are some of my favorite things to imagine:

• Running through a field of flowers surrounded with clear blue sky
• Sitting in a sunny corner of the library with a good book
• Sleeping under the stars, listening to crickets
• Swinging beneath the branches of a tall oak tree
• Having a picnic on the beach, then looking for seashells

Once you have chosen what you would like to imagine, find a quiet place to close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Then, think about what sights you would be seeing, things you would be hearing, etc. in that environment. If you'd like you can even think up a story about what happens while you're there and the things that you'll be doing. Taking just five minutes a day to have an "imagination session" will help you to reduce stress and to give your brain a rest. Give it a try! Using your imagination is a tool that people of all ages can use, not just children.

Post a comment, tell someone about blog, make my day!

Hello everyone! It's exciting to see that my blog is gradually gaining readers. I would like to continue to encourage you to share any thoughts on my posts by posting a comment. Simply click on the button # Comments, and then enter your comment in the box displayed. If you do not have a Google account, or do not wish to use Open ID or Name/URL(don't worry if you don't understand what these are, I don't know myself!), just select Anonymous, but please sign your name at the end of your comment. Finally, click on Publish Your Comment, and you will have made my day! Also, please share this blog with friends and family. I would love to have more readers and make that much more of a difference inspirationally! Continue to check back often!

Inspired,
Emelie

Redefine the impossible

Inspired Thought...
You've heard the phrase "Nothing is impossible", but if you're like me, upon hearing this, you can't help but scoff and say, "Yeah, right." But I really like the message of this quote by Kobi Yamada: "Intense desire not only creates its own possibilities, but its own talents. Don't be afraid to do something just because its impossible."  This summer, I read a book on the struggle of women wanting fair work rights in the mid to late 1800s. One character in the book strongly believed in her cause and dared to defy her male employer at whatever cost in order to achieve what she desired most: fair pay and fair hours. I find that very commendable. It takes a lot of courage to stand up for a cause you believe in and continue to push forward even when others find your goal impossible. Perhaps nothing is impossible only as long as we have the ability to think of it as a possibility. Maybe if we think of it as possibility, then do all in our power to achieve it, the unachievable will indeed become achievable. I'm already getting goosebumps!

Inspired Action...
Create a goal chart. At the top of your chart, write your motive and why you want to achieve it. Then, starting at the bottom of the page and working your way up, make a list of steps you can take to achieve this goal. Remember, don't be afraid to try something just because it seems impossible at the time. Trust yourself and genuinely believe that the impossible WILL become a reality.

Inspired Living...  
Now that you have faith that your impossibilities will become possibilities, be sure to encourage others in their dreams and desires. Never, EVER, question someone's dream! Keep in mind how important your own dream is to you, and how much you might appreciate having someone else who believes in it as much as you do. 

Embrace change

Inspired Thought...
Life is a time of consistent growth, and with growth comes change. As I get older, I find myself constantly making transitions and reaching new milestones, which can be both exciting and uncomfortable. We all have to deal with change, as it's a part of our everyday lives, but the question is how to deal with it? Well, today, I'm challenging you to EMBRACE change. Yeah, that's right,  I'm asking you to welcome those "butterflies" into your tummy, accept those feelings of being overwhelmed, nervous, and excited, and step into unknown territory without a care. Every fall, as my schedule shifts from summertime to school time, I find myself in a state of total uncontrol as I suddenly become swamped with a larger work load and the start-up of more activities. But as the years have gone by, I have started to accept that this time of adjustment is a part of who I am and that it is normal for me to feel this way at this time of year. I have begun to embrace change, and no longer see it as a bad thing, but a good thing. Change brings about a fresh start, another chance to be the best you can be.

Inspired Action...
Whenever I am anticipating the start-up of something new, it always helps me to make a list of all of the positive things that can be brought about by that experience. For example, if you are making the move from a small town to a large city, go online and look up some of the attractions and opportunities available in that city. Also, make a quick trip to your future location and visit your new workplace, school, church, home, etc. It may make the transition easier if you are already familiar with your surroundings and have things to look forward to upon moving there.

Inspired Living...
Now that you are embracing change, remember others in your life who may need support during times of transition. If you know of someone who recently lost their job, got a divorce, or lost a loved one, invite them out to dinner or coffee and offer to help out with whatever they might need. Let them know you care and invite them to share their thoughts and feelings on their current situation. Pray with them, offer advice, and share in their adjustment. It's always easier to deal with change when you have someone to support you.

"Growth means change and change involves risk, stepping from the known to the unknown." ---George Shinn

Embracing your inner child

Inspired Thought...
Yesterday evening, I had the pleasure of playing with two sweet little girls, who helped to remind me of the importance of children and their ever-freeing spirit. The simplicity of a child's words and actions can sometimes give a fresh perspective to us grown-ups who have to make everything so complicated. Perhaps it's time that we all learned a lesson from our little ones, and embraced a more simple, relaxed, and fulfilling lifestyle. A few months ago, I received a letter from one of my mentors, who encouraged this idea with the statement: "And don't forget to play in the mud every once in a while." What a great reminder to make letting go and having fun a part of your regular routine! Children are also very good at communicating their needs and desires, something that oftentimes  people have trouble expressing at home and in the workplace. Although grown-ups' needs don't always include ice cream and candy, maybe possessing the same air of confidence as a child would make it easier for us to express our needs to others. So... go outside and play in the mud! No one's stopping you.

Inspired Action... 
Here are a few ideas to get you started on embracing your inner child: Take a trip down memory lane and look at old photos from your childhood. Ask a parent or sibling about memories they have of you as a child.  Choose one thing to do every day this week that you remember doing as a child (i.e. playing cards, jump roping, eating ice cream, swinging on the playground, etc.). 

Inspired Living...
Pick a day to spend time with a little one in your life (kids, grandkids, nephews, nieces, neighbors, etc.). Take them for a walk in the park and let them tell you all about the flowers and trees and buzzing bumblebees. Go out for ice cream or pack a picnic lunch. Swim at the pool or go shopping at their favorite store. If you don't have a child of your own, head to the library and volunteer to read books to the children, or adopt a friend's child for the day. Observe the child's joy and laughter, her knowledgeable explanations of a rainstorm or how a garden grows, his dependence upon others, her tears when she gets an "owie" (be sure to kiss it better), and his hugs and kisses at the end of the day. Enjoy children, wherever you are, and be sure to let your own inner child shine through.

Movie Of The Month: Brave

This summer, if you're looking for a film that's great for the whole family, or gives a new perspective, I strongly recommend you see Disney's newest animation, "Brave". "Brave" is the tale of a Scottish princess named Merida who is trying to find her own destiny in the midst of a somewhat daunting "royal fate". Her mother feels that she should be more like her: poised, sophisticated, and refined. But Merida has other ideas; ideas that include horseback riding, archery, and definitely NOT marriage. When Merida meets an old witch in the forest who gives her an enchanted cake to change her mother, Merida is sure her fate will change and become more to her liking. But when her fate is changed in unexpected ways, she realizes that life wasn't so bad after all. Full of surprises, magic, and tender mother-daughter love, "Brave" is a wonderful reminder to be more grateful for the blessings we already have.

Working Together

Inspired Thought...
This past weekend I visited the International Peace Garden in northern North Dakota for the first time. Although the flowers were not in full bloom, I was very impressed, especially after a visit to the garden's peace chapel. Inside the peace chapel, various inspirational quotes from scripture and famous historical figures are engraved in its stone walls. I read every single one, and found that they all carried the same message: a message of hope, of caring and love, and of peace. They helped me to realize the importance of depending upon others, and that working together is often times more successful than working alone. As I get older, I find myself becoming more and more independent. Yet I know that I wouldn't be where I am today if I hadn't depended upon and received guidance from my family, friends, and teachers. Try thinking of yourself as a puzzle piece. A lone puzzle piece is useless without making connections with other pieces. Today I'm challenging you to not only rely upon those you know and love, but to look beyond the walls of judgement and discrimination and make connections with the "not so popular" puzzle pieces, allowing them to rely on YOU. Who knows? You might just find your missing piece!

Inspired Action...
Create a puzzle. Cut up construction paper or poster board into various shapes and sizes, then glue individual pictures of family, friends, co-workers, etc. to each piece. On the back of each puzzle piece, write one way in which the person pictured on the front has positively influenced you. Finally, put your puzzle together and say a prayer of thanks for all the special people God has brought into your life.

Inspired Living...
Pick one person that you are well acquainted with and write them a note or give them a phone call to thank them for their relationship and positive influence. (As tempting as it is, do NOT send an e-mail or a text... a handwritten note or personal phone call bears a lot more meaning.) Then, choose an organization within your community that is often neglected due to discrimination and judgement. Volunteer there for a day, purchase X dollars worth of the organization's needed items, or simply visit with and talk to those who are involved with these organizations. Your act of kindness will mean more to them than you know. 

Oops!

Hello everyone! My apologies! I just realized that those who do not have a Google or other account have not been allowed to post comments! I updated my settings so that you can now choose the identity "anonymous" and post a comment without the aforementioned account(s). Just please sign your name at the end of your comment! Thank you!

Take Chances

Inspired Thought...
If you're an introvert like me, today's topic might be a challenge for you. Taking chances is something that comes naturally to our extroverted companions, but for us it's something we dread and avoid at all costs. But today I am encouraging ALL of you to step outside of your comfort zone and take a chance! Now I'm not suggesting that you do something extreme, like bungee jumping or hang gliding, just try something new that you've always been curious about but have been too afraid to. If you enjoy it, GREAT! Continue doing it! If not, at least you gave it a go.


Inspired Action...
Go to your local parks and recreation center, fitness center, or college campus and inquire about workshops or classes in areas of interest to you. This is a great thing to do as a family or with a friend. Who knows? You might learn something new or pick up a hobby!

Inspired Living... 
Take chances when it comes to relationships. Heard rumors about the neighbor next door? Invite them over for dinner and find out what they're really like. Wish you had a friend but no one seems right for you? Be sure to include EVERYONE in your search for a bud. Never exclude someone just because they still dress like it's the 70's or never socialize at gatherings. Be open and you just might find the friend you're looking for!

Have Hope

Inspired Thought...

All of us have to deal with some sort of obstacle on our journey through life. Whether it's health problems, divorce, financial need, or stress at work, we feel both afraid of what is to come, and hopeful for a better future. But also, our hope can become frail, and we began to wonder when our prayers are going to be answered. Be patient. God IS hearing your prayers, and he IS at work... He's just working in ways that we may not be able to experience for ourselves yet. So have hope! Stay strong! God understands what you're going through, and is doing all that He can to help you.

Inspired Action...

Write a couple of Post-It notes that say, "There IS hope. I will get through this. God is with me.", and put them in places where you will be sure to see them everyday(one in your car, on the bathroom mirror, on the computer monitor, etc.).

 

Inspired Living... 

Allow God to work through YOU to help someone else make it over that bump in the road. Send your hospitalized co-worker a get-well card. Bake and drop off a casserole for a friend who recently got divorced. And of course, you can always PRAY for someone you know is in need.

Listen to Your Heart

Inspired Thought...
While on vacation in the Black Hills of South Dakota, I came across a novelty "decision-maker" in one of the gift shops. It consisted of a rectangular board with the words yes, no, maybe, and later in each of the four corners. Above the board hung a suspended metal weight. The board must have been magnetic, because, upon swinging the weight, the weight would be drawn to one of the corners. You make your decision based on the answer the weight is drawn to! I found it rather humorous and began to ponder exactly how decisions are made. It seems to me that the two ways to make decisions include: a) listening to your heart and going for it or b) listening to reason and not even giving the choice a chance.

Inspired Action... 
Our lives are full of decisions, so I don't think it should be too hard to find the subject of this activity: Practice making decisions with your heart. Instead of focusing on the "what ifs", think about the amazing possibilities and the "what may be"s. Reflect upon your best qualities and make decisions that bring out the best in you.

Inspired Living... 
Listening to your heart is not only good for making decisions. It can also help you to see a need and fill a need. If you know that your elderly neighbor is sick and desiring companionship, don't sit on the couch and say, "It's not my business." If your aware of it, then it IS your business! Listen to your heart and bake a batch of cookies, then head on over and have coffee one afternoon. Listen to your heart when it says, "Make a difference!" 

Believe in Yourself

Inspired Thought...
Believe in yourself... a true challenge for all of us. In my opinion, society today focuses too much on our human flaws and the forever strive for perfection. Just turn on the TV, and what do you see? Yet another commercial for "the product" that's going to make everything wrong with you perfect. If we're working so hard to be MORE attractive, what would be wrong with working hard to be satisfied with who you already are?

Inspired Action...
It's time to get creative! Create a personality collage. Include pictures of things that you enjoy and write down some of your best qualities and accomplishments. Hopefully, when you're finished, you'll be able to say to yourself, "Cool! I'm a great person! Look at what I've done! Just think what I could do!"

Inspired Living...
Now that your confidence in yourself is boosted, it's time that you boost the confidence of others. Don't be afraid to give someone a compliment. Start with at least one compliment a day, then build from there. Who knows, maybe you'll make someone's day?!

Celebrate TODAY!

Inspired Thought...
Have you ever found yourself waking up in the morning thinking,"What's so great about today anyway? It's not my birthday, it's not a holiday, so what's the point of today?" Well, here's your answer right here: EVERY day is a gift from God, and you wouldn't even be here if there wasn't a point to this day. In fact, it took Him seven days to create all that you will see in front of you in just one day, TODAY.

Inspired Action...
Here's an idea to help you find something to celebrate within each day: Keep a celebration journal. For each day, jot down at least one "today gift" that makes that day worth celebrating. It could be something as simple as a friendly wave from the neighbor next door or a rather slobbery, but loving kiss from your dog.

Inspired Living...
Now that you've accepted some "today gifts", it's time that you started giving some out. Try to make someone else's day for a change. Hold the door open for someone struggling with a heavy load. Pay the parking toll for yourself AND the person behind you. Take a co-worker out to lunch. Just DO something that makes others want to celebrate with you!

Welcome!

Welcome to Inspiration Today! This blog is designed for all those artistic people out there desiring TO inspire and to BE inspired! I will post everything from suggestions for a more positive outlook on life to writing prompts to creative ways for expressing yourself. Join me in being inspired TODAY!