A Grateful Heart
"Do everything in Love"
“”Thank you! for honoring God's plan when you heard the unexpected news of having another child in the family", you loved me unconditionally since then.
Financial stability, protection from harm, unforgettable travels, and educational opportunities were key ingredients for a delightful journey. My heart is filled with unlimited, cherished memories.
You did everything in Love!
When we moved to United States, I toured new horizons with parental guidance and wisdom, embraced diverse, cultural influences in Florida, learned a second language, and viewed LIFE filled with 'countless' possibilities.
You are kind, loving, forgiving and an encouraging parent. You dismissed past mistakes and loved me through the toughest moments. You even hired tutors to help with Algebra, Geometry and Statistics lessons. "Nothing is impossible" was the recurrent message I heard over the years. I am forever grateful for your continued support in the midst of hardships.
You did everything in Love!
As I grew older and faced unfamiliar circumstances, I soon realized how challenging 'daily living' can be...
Neither one of you bailed out in life... recovering from cancer treatments twice and medical emergencies, hearing unpleasant news from family members or friends, living with a debilitating, chronic illness such Parkinson's Disease, re-adjusting family's budget due to changes in international economy were just a few transitions that you both handled gracefully. A positive mindset is K-E-Y. Faith is utmost critical.
"I love you" and genuinely thank both of you for being "a dad and a mom" who do everything in Love!
Each morning, I praise the Lord for blessings;
The blessings of family- having loving parents and siblings who continually shape my life...
The blessings of good health - having physical strength to wake up each morning...
The blessings of career - maintaining an intellectual ability to help others in emotional distress...
The blessings of Faith - embracing discouragement and trusting in the midst of the unknown...
The blessings of Hope - relying on the Lord's promises for a better future...
The blessings of Love - overcoming barriers with someone's help...and the greatest of them all is LOVE!
Most importantly, the blessings of a relationship with Jesus Christ - experiencing an unfailing love each moment, You did everything in Love!
Lord,
I praise You for being my Refuge, Rock, and Hope. You provided the most loving, kind, forgiving parents on Earth. Dad and Mom shared unfailing love, compassion, and offered protection and forgiveness for the past 44+ years! Even though there is geographical distance between us, my folks are always in my heart. Help us think on whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is admirable...I pray for protection, healing and hope for this day. As my parents continue to do everything in Love, help me embrace and honor each moment we spend together. Help us fight the good fight, finish the race and keep our Faith. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
1 Corinthians 16:14 "Do everything in Love"
Friday, August 5, 2011
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Relational Fantasies
Emotional purity is an ability to focus on the realities of current circumstances, and to refrain from visualizing the future of a relationship prior to engagement.
The truth is "above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it" Proverbs 4:23.
Character unfolds over time and relationship matures one day at a time. Relationship fantasies deceive the heart, creates confusion and leads to a vulnerable mind-set.
"Would you like to change your last name?", "It would be nice to have classical music in our wedding reception?", these were relevant comments made by Prince Charming during the first month of dating.
He waltzed into my life and I followed his lead unconditionally!
Because Prince Charming initiated relationship fantasies, I soon visualized a lifetime with him and his children. He explored unlimited possibilities for a future together. "We are the perfect match!" I repeatedly shared with friends.
I envisioned myself moving to the country without hesitation. I was mesmerized by his strengths; strong work ethics, and a compassionate heart. Within forty-five days, an initial bond was created with his children, and a family vacation planned and well-executed. Unforgettable memories were authored.
I never took the time to establish boundaries much less recognize the truth of current circumstances. We were both engrossed in the future...
Prince Charming was embracing a new career opportunity, and singleness. I never questioned his readiness for commitment in the midst of recent transition.
My world turned upside down overnight when he walked away! I was in shock for weeks... my heart grieved for months and was quite vulnerable thereafter.
How could he not be ready for a relationship? I ignored the reality of his circumstances... he was recently divorced! It takes time to heal from divorce, and wisdom to handle post-divorce issues effectively.
Timing plays a critical role in dating without a doubt!
.
The truth is "above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it" Proverbs 4:23.
Character unfolds over time and relationship matures one day at a time. Relationship fantasies deceive the heart, creates confusion and leads to a vulnerable mind-set.
"Would you like to change your last name?", "It would be nice to have classical music in our wedding reception?", these were relevant comments made by Prince Charming during the first month of dating.
He waltzed into my life and I followed his lead unconditionally!
Because Prince Charming initiated relationship fantasies, I soon visualized a lifetime with him and his children. He explored unlimited possibilities for a future together. "We are the perfect match!" I repeatedly shared with friends.
I envisioned myself moving to the country without hesitation. I was mesmerized by his strengths; strong work ethics, and a compassionate heart. Within forty-five days, an initial bond was created with his children, and a family vacation planned and well-executed. Unforgettable memories were authored.
I never took the time to establish boundaries much less recognize the truth of current circumstances. We were both engrossed in the future...
Prince Charming was embracing a new career opportunity, and singleness. I never questioned his readiness for commitment in the midst of recent transition.
My world turned upside down overnight when he walked away! I was in shock for weeks... my heart grieved for months and was quite vulnerable thereafter.
How could he not be ready for a relationship? I ignored the reality of his circumstances... he was recently divorced! It takes time to heal from divorce, and wisdom to handle post-divorce issues effectively.
Timing plays a critical role in dating without a doubt!
.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Highlights 2010
It is amazing how one's journey changes its path often!
God is the only editor who approves the 'final manuscript' in life.
The Lord reminds me of the following Truth often, "There is a season for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace' Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8.
My faithful, 14y/o feline companion "Singh" suffered from severe cardiovascular disease; euthanasia was the only option rendered after hospitalization (January 18). Singh will always be remembered...a white Turkish Angora who was rescued from Miami streets in 1996. Singh enjoyed tuna treats, and slept in bed with his younger brother side by side. Three days later, I adopted Faith. He has revolutionized our home in less than a year. Faith loves to flush the toilet, open-up drawers and kitchen cabinets, tear things apart and plays 'rough' with his older brother, GQ.
In April, I celebrated 43rd birthday with my folks, high school friend, and relatives in Florida. Spending time with family and relatives is always a top priority in my life. Mom was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease after surviving cancer twice in the past four years, Unfortunately, she is in denial and refuses to take prescribed medication. Dad's health has deteriorated rapidly in the past six months. Fortunately, both of them are still able to travel back and forth to Venezuela at least once a year.
This past summer, I traveled to North Carolina and enjoyed a 'writers' conference sponsored by Proverbs 31 ministries, and learned more about the discipline of writing and the therapeutic value of it. Blogging allows me the opportunity to reflect back in life in the midst of a fast-paced world... my innermost desire is to slow down and enjoy the simplest things in life.
Professionally, I decided to pursue the professional license in Clinical Psychology after 18 years of Clinical practice. I am licensed as a Mental Health Counselor in Florida, and Board Certified Behavior Analyst Internationally. Early Fall, TN Board of Examiners in Psychology accepted the application including former EPPP scores. The Board is now requesting a passing score for the Ethics Exam. It will be scheduled early next year. Once licensed, I may consider part-time, private practice.
Personally, I continue to embrace solitude, unfold the treasures of singleness and value the beauty of genuine friendships. I pray for continued wisdom and discernment as I continue to explore dating opportunities. Timing is a critical issue in dating. I am praying for a Christian man who is ready to take a leap of Faith...The Truth is that "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily-angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails" 1 Corinthians 13:1-8.
Spiritually, I continue to grow in my Faith each day, I realize that God's timing is perfect.
Regarding hobbies, I played the "Danse Macabre" at the Fall Recital and achieved a higher level in piano-playing. I started playing piano at age 13 but daily practice is an issue due to career expectations, life stressors and time-constraints. I participated in two recitals this year; spring and fall. I would like to learn three-movements, Mozart Sonata this coming year.
Facebooking has been a valuable resource to stay connected with family and friends around the globe including Spain, Canada, Mexico, USA, London, Venezuela, Peru, Iraq and Switzerland. Although I have to admit, I am a facebook 'junkie' !!! I am learning not to 'facebook' while driving; I almost had a head collision late summer. Yes!, I'm embarrassed to admit but need to accept my foolishness in order to change behavior.
God is the only editor who approves the 'final manuscript' in life.
The Lord reminds me of the following Truth often, "There is a season for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace' Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8.
My faithful, 14y/o feline companion "Singh" suffered from severe cardiovascular disease; euthanasia was the only option rendered after hospitalization (January 18). Singh will always be remembered...a white Turkish Angora who was rescued from Miami streets in 1996. Singh enjoyed tuna treats, and slept in bed with his younger brother side by side. Three days later, I adopted Faith. He has revolutionized our home in less than a year. Faith loves to flush the toilet, open-up drawers and kitchen cabinets, tear things apart and plays 'rough' with his older brother, GQ.
In April, I celebrated 43rd birthday with my folks, high school friend, and relatives in Florida. Spending time with family and relatives is always a top priority in my life. Mom was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease after surviving cancer twice in the past four years, Unfortunately, she is in denial and refuses to take prescribed medication. Dad's health has deteriorated rapidly in the past six months. Fortunately, both of them are still able to travel back and forth to Venezuela at least once a year.
This past summer, I traveled to North Carolina and enjoyed a 'writers' conference sponsored by Proverbs 31 ministries, and learned more about the discipline of writing and the therapeutic value of it. Blogging allows me the opportunity to reflect back in life in the midst of a fast-paced world... my innermost desire is to slow down and enjoy the simplest things in life.
Professionally, I decided to pursue the professional license in Clinical Psychology after 18 years of Clinical practice. I am licensed as a Mental Health Counselor in Florida, and Board Certified Behavior Analyst Internationally. Early Fall, TN Board of Examiners in Psychology accepted the application including former EPPP scores. The Board is now requesting a passing score for the Ethics Exam. It will be scheduled early next year. Once licensed, I may consider part-time, private practice.
Personally, I continue to embrace solitude, unfold the treasures of singleness and value the beauty of genuine friendships. I pray for continued wisdom and discernment as I continue to explore dating opportunities. Timing is a critical issue in dating. I am praying for a Christian man who is ready to take a leap of Faith...The Truth is that "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily-angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails" 1 Corinthians 13:1-8.
Spiritually, I continue to grow in my Faith each day, I realize that God's timing is perfect.
Regarding hobbies, I played the "Danse Macabre" at the Fall Recital and achieved a higher level in piano-playing. I started playing piano at age 13 but daily practice is an issue due to career expectations, life stressors and time-constraints. I participated in two recitals this year; spring and fall. I would like to learn three-movements, Mozart Sonata this coming year.
Facebooking has been a valuable resource to stay connected with family and friends around the globe including Spain, Canada, Mexico, USA, London, Venezuela, Peru, Iraq and Switzerland. Although I have to admit, I am a facebook 'junkie' !!! I am learning not to 'facebook' while driving; I almost had a head collision late summer. Yes!, I'm embarrassed to admit but need to accept my foolishness in order to change behavior.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
T-I-M-I-N-G
Timing is everything in life.
There is a time frame to get a promotion, raise a family, finish school or even travel abroad.
Unfortunately, some events do not take place when I 'pencil' them in a daily, industrious planner and other desirable circumstances do not unfold at all. The Lord orchestrates life circumstances so they materialize during the best time frame possible.
"In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps" Proverbs 16:9.
When the Lord leads me in a different direction, it is always a more suitable path. I may not tolerate the incertitude of the journey but trusting His will is utmost critical.
I completed the doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology at age 30. Graduation ceremony was rememberable including dad's tears of joy. Within ten days, I was forced to move away from family and friends due to an unforeseen stressor.
'I finished graduate school successfully, and attended graduation ceremony right before relocation! I embarked in a new journey thereafter..."
I was astonished when I moved away from familiar surroundings but the Lord had a better plan.
Today, I rejoice in a multitude of blessings...good health, loving family relationships, genuine friendships and a rewarding career!
There is a time frame to get a promotion, raise a family, finish school or even travel abroad.
Unfortunately, some events do not take place when I 'pencil' them in a daily, industrious planner and other desirable circumstances do not unfold at all. The Lord orchestrates life circumstances so they materialize during the best time frame possible.
"In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps" Proverbs 16:9.
When the Lord leads me in a different direction, it is always a more suitable path. I may not tolerate the incertitude of the journey but trusting His will is utmost critical.
I completed the doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology at age 30. Graduation ceremony was rememberable including dad's tears of joy. Within ten days, I was forced to move away from family and friends due to an unforeseen stressor.
'I finished graduate school successfully, and attended graduation ceremony right before relocation! I embarked in a new journey thereafter..."
I was astonished when I moved away from familiar surroundings but the Lord had a better plan.
Today, I rejoice in a multitude of blessings...good health, loving family relationships, genuine friendships and a rewarding career!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Stand Still at crossroads
A life crossroad may be confusing, challenging, even disheartening!
Psalm 46:10-11 "Be still, and know that I am God...The Lord Almighty is with us..."
I recently stood at a crossroad, and contemplated unique circumstances. There were so many appealing roads, multiple exits and limited road signs ... I prayed for wisdom, waited patiently and did not overreact.
Thank goodness!
I was interviewed by an army captain who discussed the military career for Clinical Psychologists on reserve. He reviewed a detailed benefits package, the terms of a contract, credentialing process and career advancement.
"Wow, I would be a Captain in a male-dominated field!" I was mesmerized by a thrilling, career opportunity. Few psychologists would not consider being 'on reserve' in their mid-40s especially when there is a possibility for deployment. Family ties, finances, and professional obligations may halt the decision-making process.
The recruiting officer was ready for me to join the medical team right there and then.
"Did I truly wanted to be an officer?" I quietly questioned myself throughout the discussion held at a local coffee shop.
"Great opportunity to serve the country...I would definitely reach out to injured veterans who are facing permanent, psychological trauma one weekend a month." I replied back with enthusiasm and optimism.
As I stood at the crossroad, I reflected upon the fact that there was nothing holding me back in case I would ever be deployed to Iraq. I have been divorced for over five years, did not have any dependents much less a "significant other" to come home to. I soon realized I was ready for an adventure outside of the norm.
Becoming a military officer was not in God's plans, he sure halted the recruiting process, and allowed me to be back on track...Today, I am grateful for His continued wisdom, inner peace and the ability to stand still in His presence when in doubt.
.
Psalm 46:10-11 "Be still, and know that I am God...The Lord Almighty is with us..."
I recently stood at a crossroad, and contemplated unique circumstances. There were so many appealing roads, multiple exits and limited road signs ... I prayed for wisdom, waited patiently and did not overreact.
Thank goodness!
I was interviewed by an army captain who discussed the military career for Clinical Psychologists on reserve. He reviewed a detailed benefits package, the terms of a contract, credentialing process and career advancement.
"Wow, I would be a Captain in a male-dominated field!" I was mesmerized by a thrilling, career opportunity. Few psychologists would not consider being 'on reserve' in their mid-40s especially when there is a possibility for deployment. Family ties, finances, and professional obligations may halt the decision-making process.
The recruiting officer was ready for me to join the medical team right there and then.
"Did I truly wanted to be an officer?" I quietly questioned myself throughout the discussion held at a local coffee shop.
"Great opportunity to serve the country...I would definitely reach out to injured veterans who are facing permanent, psychological trauma one weekend a month." I replied back with enthusiasm and optimism.
As I stood at the crossroad, I reflected upon the fact that there was nothing holding me back in case I would ever be deployed to Iraq. I have been divorced for over five years, did not have any dependents much less a "significant other" to come home to. I soon realized I was ready for an adventure outside of the norm.
Becoming a military officer was not in God's plans, he sure halted the recruiting process, and allowed me to be back on track...Today, I am grateful for His continued wisdom, inner peace and the ability to stand still in His presence when in doubt.
.
Friday, September 3, 2010
A Brief and Costly Distraction.
If I'm in a rush and disregard the speed limit, there is a fine,
If I drive recklessly, a fatal accident may take place,
When safety is compromised, the trip may be delayed or interrupted.
The first time I visited Western Mental Health Institute was on Thanksgiving Day 2005. I didn't know speed limit changes so swiftly from one small town to another... from 30mph to 45mph, back to 35mph then 55mph. I missed available, road signs when I diverted my attention to a phone conversation!
The next thing I noticed was a pair of flashing, blue and white lights chasing after my blue minicooper! "Ugh?!" I was awarded a traffic violation in Sommerville area.
"It is so easy to get distracted in life" Circumstances may change abruptly and unexpectedly.
God's message secures a clear direction for untraveled paths. The Holy Spirit alerts me when I'm being careless and need to reset the course of action .
If I drive recklessly, a fatal accident may take place,
When safety is compromised, the trip may be delayed or interrupted.
The first time I visited Western Mental Health Institute was on Thanksgiving Day 2005. I didn't know speed limit changes so swiftly from one small town to another... from 30mph to 45mph, back to 35mph then 55mph. I missed available, road signs when I diverted my attention to a phone conversation!
The next thing I noticed was a pair of flashing, blue and white lights chasing after my blue minicooper! "Ugh?!" I was awarded a traffic violation in Sommerville area.
"It is so easy to get distracted in life" Circumstances may change abruptly and unexpectedly.
God's message secures a clear direction for untraveled paths. The Holy Spirit alerts me when I'm being careless and need to reset the course of action .
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Having M-A-R-G-I-N in life!
I lived in a metropolitan, fast-paced city for twenty-six years, I was quite a " busy, busy, busy bee" in graduate school. As I completed 15-18 hours in just one semester, worked 3/4 of the time, and traveled to New York, St. Louis and Indiana in one year, I learned the value of 'multitasking' . I mastered this skill over the years, and became a professional multitask-er.
Did I have any margin in life? not a bit...my schedule was crammed each day; there was no space for emergencies much less for rest.
As I grew older and built a closer relationship with the Lord, I changed in various ways.
Exodus 16:30 "So the people rested on the seventh day."
Today, I am much more conscientious about rest. His ways are better than mine without a doubt. Even though I continue to multitask and do it efficiently, I learned the value in resting in Him in the mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekends, holidays... anytime.
When I get rest, I am able to...
make better decisions,
reflect on challenging circumstances,
be creative with personal time,
feel refreshed in the mornings,
handle stress efficiently,
maintain self-control in the midst of chaos,
enjoy a meal with a friend,
play with feline companions,
be discerning,
laugh more often,
and most importantly maintain a joyful lifestyle.
Did I have any margin in life? not a bit...my schedule was crammed each day; there was no space for emergencies much less for rest.
As I grew older and built a closer relationship with the Lord, I changed in various ways.
Exodus 16:30 "So the people rested on the seventh day."
Today, I am much more conscientious about rest. His ways are better than mine without a doubt. Even though I continue to multitask and do it efficiently, I learned the value in resting in Him in the mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekends, holidays... anytime.
When I get rest, I am able to...
make better decisions,
reflect on challenging circumstances,
be creative with personal time,
feel refreshed in the mornings,
handle stress efficiently,
maintain self-control in the midst of chaos,
enjoy a meal with a friend,
play with feline companions,
be discerning,
laugh more often,
and most importantly maintain a joyful lifestyle.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)