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.
Friday, November 26, 2010
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.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Eat, Pray and Love
In 'Eat, Pray, and Love' movie, Julia Roberts portrayed the role of a divorced woman who was desperately in search of herself when she visited three distant countries. Throughout Roberts' travels, she embraced a journey of healing, and spiritual growth. She recaptured passion and joy in life.
It takes a lot of courage to embark on an unknown journey for a year, and let go of one's familiar surroundings and lifestyle. The thought of learning a language and cultural differences, and settling in a foreign country may be nerve wracking at first yet the adventure brings unforgettable experiences!
"Do I need to travel overseas so I may have joy in life?"
Charles Swindoll discussed the importance of choosing joy regardless of extraneous circumstances. Swindoll (1992) highlighted the three joy thieves in his book titled 'Laugh Again'; worry (the what if's), stress (intolerable circumstances) and fear (dreadful thoughts). Guess what?! These joy thieves travel overseas regardless of time and place.
Phillipians 4:8 "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things"
Each time I redirect the internal dialogue to what's is pure and noble, I become much more joyful during the day... there is no need to travel overseas for a year!
It takes a lot of courage to embark on an unknown journey for a year, and let go of one's familiar surroundings and lifestyle. The thought of learning a language and cultural differences, and settling in a foreign country may be nerve wracking at first yet the adventure brings unforgettable experiences!
"Do I need to travel overseas so I may have joy in life?"
Charles Swindoll discussed the importance of choosing joy regardless of extraneous circumstances. Swindoll (1992) highlighted the three joy thieves in his book titled 'Laugh Again'; worry (the what if's), stress (intolerable circumstances) and fear (dreadful thoughts). Guess what?! These joy thieves travel overseas regardless of time and place.
Phillipians 4:8 "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things"
Each time I redirect the internal dialogue to what's is pure and noble, I become much more joyful during the day... there is no need to travel overseas for a year!
Sunday, August 22, 2010
The Last Song
The storyline dealt with reconciliation and forgiveness. As the drama unfolded, a strained 'father-daughter' relationship was restored.The truth prevailed.
Dad and I were always drawn to music. He aspired for me to be a concert pianist at a young age. Dad envisioned himself traveling around the world with me as a performer...was delighted to hear me practice each morning before sunrise, paid for extra lessons and encouraged music full-time!
I never fulfilled dad's dream although each time I sit in front of the keyboard, my passion for a variety of music continues to grow each day.
1 Peter 4: 10 "Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms"
I recently realized how dad's memory is deteriorating each day...he is no longer able to recall who in the family plays the piano. I would enjoy playing the piano once again in my folks' living room!... just like a 13 years old , school girl dressed in a pleaded skirt, blue shirt and brown moccasins committed to practice before sunrise...
Who knows?!
Renting a piano for a weekend and surprising dad on my next trip to Florida sounds like an awesome dream to me... Hopefully, it will not be our Last Song.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
The Impact of Words
Some words are nurturing, uplifting, or optimistic in nature.These words contribute to one's life. Other words may be critical, life altering or negative in nature, and can destroy relationships or be fatal to someone's future.
One's reaction or choice is pivotal. Boundaries in relationships may need to be redefined when trust is breached. Reconciliation is beneficial or may not be safe to consider. Forgiveness is undoubtedly the next step.
'You will never amount to anything in life' a high school guidance counselor shared with me in a brief conversation regarding college admission. Even though this life-altering comment was made in freshman year, I chose not to be discouraged throughout high school years. I carefully selected an influential network during graduate school. These friendships tend to be long-lasting and continue to grow each day.
"You are ridiculous" a dear friend of mine stated one summer afternoon when plans were rearranged. I chose not to overreact when confronted with critical remarks much less internalize the adjective.
Relying on network's fleeting opinion or volatile comment may be detrimental to emotional well-being.
The Truth is that "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."
Psalm 139:14
An encouraging, trustworthy friend or family member is indeed valuable! Having this exceptional individual in our lives, it's a legitimate blessing. The value of encouragement is irreplaceable, and has a profound, long-term impact in one's life.
How do I know when a friend or family is being encouraging, positive or influential?
I'm forever grateful for dad's 'cheer leading' tendencies. Dad was the perfect model of an 'encourager', and will always be remembered. Unfortunately, dad is no longer able to carry out social conversations; he has been battling Parkinson's Disease for over two decades.
Memories are cherished in my heart today and always!
My wise dad refrained from name-calling or abusive remarks...he would confront me when I was wrong yet cared enough to share constructive comments. He would suggest how to solve challenging situations, and highlighted personal strengths.
'You are using time wisely...go ahead and go to school instead of working so much...you may need to cut back in your social life a bit...' my loving dad would say.
Dad celebrated college highlights on a regular basis, 'great job for finishing up with your qualifying exams this semester' . I vividly remember graduation day, the warmth of his hugs and the joy of tears.
No wonder I was able to accomplish so much in the past! Today, I continue overcoming disappointments one day at a time.
Contributory networks need to be selected carefully; the quality needs to be evaluated one season at a time.
Is the network encouraging, empowering and influential? It makes a difference in one's life particularly during hardships.
One's reaction or choice is pivotal. Boundaries in relationships may need to be redefined when trust is breached. Reconciliation is beneficial or may not be safe to consider. Forgiveness is undoubtedly the next step.
'You will never amount to anything in life' a high school guidance counselor shared with me in a brief conversation regarding college admission. Even though this life-altering comment was made in freshman year, I chose not to be discouraged throughout high school years. I carefully selected an influential network during graduate school. These friendships tend to be long-lasting and continue to grow each day.
"You are ridiculous" a dear friend of mine stated one summer afternoon when plans were rearranged. I chose not to overreact when confronted with critical remarks much less internalize the adjective.
Relying on network's fleeting opinion or volatile comment may be detrimental to emotional well-being.
The Truth is that "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."
Psalm 139:14
An encouraging, trustworthy friend or family member is indeed valuable! Having this exceptional individual in our lives, it's a legitimate blessing. The value of encouragement is irreplaceable, and has a profound, long-term impact in one's life.
How do I know when a friend or family is being encouraging, positive or influential?
I'm forever grateful for dad's 'cheer leading' tendencies. Dad was the perfect model of an 'encourager', and will always be remembered. Unfortunately, dad is no longer able to carry out social conversations; he has been battling Parkinson's Disease for over two decades.
Memories are cherished in my heart today and always!
My wise dad refrained from name-calling or abusive remarks...he would confront me when I was wrong yet cared enough to share constructive comments. He would suggest how to solve challenging situations, and highlighted personal strengths.
'You are using time wisely...go ahead and go to school instead of working so much...you may need to cut back in your social life a bit...' my loving dad would say.
Dad celebrated college highlights on a regular basis, 'great job for finishing up with your qualifying exams this semester' . I vividly remember graduation day, the warmth of his hugs and the joy of tears.
No wonder I was able to accomplish so much in the past! Today, I continue overcoming disappointments one day at a time.
Contributory networks need to be selected carefully; the quality needs to be evaluated one season at a time.
Is the network encouraging, empowering and influential? It makes a difference in one's life particularly during hardships.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Greek Islands, Bora Bora or Alaska?!
Dancing Zumba, writing in a blog, praying for family members in convoluted circumstances, turning 'off' the phone ringer, having a lunch date, reconnecting with a trustworthy friend, taking an afternoon nap on Sunday, feeding feline companions, saying 'no'....are just a few ways to let the soul rest in the midst of a stormy season!
How much more can I take Lord? He reminds me of His presence each day...
"When you pass through the water, I will be with you. And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you, for I am the Lord your God" Isaiah 43:2-3.
Why manipulate life circumstances?
Anxiety-provoking thoughts and irrational fears are binding and leads to helplessness, and despair.
I pray for strength one minute at a time. The Lord's presence in the here-and-now is priceless. Surrendering and trusting in Christ alone have led to an unexpected, unforgettable journey so far. Blessings unfold each day!
God creates a master blueprint for the future, and orchestrates 'unforseen even elusive' circumstances for a greater purpose. The Lord is in control.
Let the soul sail away to the Greek Islands, Bora Bora, or even Alaska...
How much more can I take Lord? He reminds me of His presence each day...
"When you pass through the water, I will be with you. And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you, for I am the Lord your God" Isaiah 43:2-3.
Why manipulate life circumstances?
Anxiety-provoking thoughts and irrational fears are binding and leads to helplessness, and despair.
I pray for strength one minute at a time. The Lord's presence in the here-and-now is priceless. Surrendering and trusting in Christ alone have led to an unexpected, unforgettable journey so far. Blessings unfold each day!
God creates a master blueprint for the future, and orchestrates 'unforseen even elusive' circumstances for a greater purpose. The Lord is in control.
Let the soul sail away to the Greek Islands, Bora Bora, or even Alaska...
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Dating in a fast-paced world!
Being a single, career woman is a challenge!
On-line, speed dating and fast-paced 'electronically-connected' lifestyles distort the process of a healthy relationship. There is no way to detect discrepancies in character over the Internet much less in smart phones.
Where did romance go? infatuation may fog the realities of a relationship.
I pray each day for a husband whose heart is pure and trustworthy. Waiting for true love to blossom takes time, it may even take a lifetime. 'And now these three remain; faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love', 1 Corinthians 13:13 (NIV).
Developmentally, our priorities change over time and the focus in life is edged...dating in the 20s may differ from the 40s.
In the twenties, appearance, spiritual growth, career goals and family plans may be relevant.
Later on, spiritual connectedness, financial stability, emotional well-being and family network are critical issues.
Dating is an opportunity to get to know someone without the commitment of a long-term relationship.
"Will I ever fall in love again?" I ask myself repeatedly. I no longer gaze at this issue.
Building a friendship is key. Learning more about each other's family heritage, social network, likes/dislikes, hobbies, career path, and financial aspirations will show if there is compatibility.
If there is compatibility, then a deeper friendship will evolve over time.
Dependability and honesty are key ingredients in a friendship.
On-line, speed dating and fast-paced 'electronically-connected' lifestyles distort the process of a healthy relationship. There is no way to detect discrepancies in character over the Internet much less in smart phones.
Where did romance go? infatuation may fog the realities of a relationship.
I pray each day for a husband whose heart is pure and trustworthy. Waiting for true love to blossom takes time, it may even take a lifetime. 'And now these three remain; faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love', 1 Corinthians 13:13 (NIV).
Developmentally, our priorities change over time and the focus in life is edged...dating in the 20s may differ from the 40s.
In the twenties, appearance, spiritual growth, career goals and family plans may be relevant.
Later on, spiritual connectedness, financial stability, emotional well-being and family network are critical issues.
Dating is an opportunity to get to know someone without the commitment of a long-term relationship.
"Will I ever fall in love again?" I ask myself repeatedly. I no longer gaze at this issue.
Building a friendship is key. Learning more about each other's family heritage, social network, likes/dislikes, hobbies, career path, and financial aspirations will show if there is compatibility.
If there is compatibility, then a deeper friendship will evolve over time.
Dependability and honesty are key ingredients in a friendship.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
'She Speaks' 2010 conference
This weekend was a fast roller-coaster ride filled with mixed emotions!.... excitement, sadness, anger, helplessness, frustration...joy, hope and peace.
I visited Charlotte, North Carolina for less than 36 hours. I had registered for "She Speaks" conference sponsored by Proverbs 31 organization. Hotel reservation and transportation arrangements were made, classes were selected, and work schedule rearranged.
As soon as I sat down in the general session, I felt at ease in making new connections among potential writers in the Christian world. There were at least 600 women waiting anxiously to worship the Lord. As soon as Cheri Keaggy played the electronic keyboard, I quickly focused all my attention to Jesus, embraced his peace and surrendered doubt and fear .
Different classes were offered at "She Speaks" this year from 'magazine article writing 101' to building a platform. Sessions were facilitated by published authors, articulate speakers and reputable editors. The conference had an enjoyable yet well-structured agenda filled with worship music, prize giveaways, three-course meals, networking opportunities, interviews with publishing companies, panel for group discussion, and a variety of instruction about the realities of the writing market.
There are two truths about 'writing'; it is a discipline in which skills develop over time with consistent practice, and it takes perseverance to unlock 'dry' seasons.
By the end of the first night at the conference, I was contacted by one of my dad's caregivers who shared unwanted news! ...
Dad's blood pressure had dropped to mid-30s, and skin color had turned purple prior to the arrival of the paramedics. He was rushed to Aventura hospital. On his way to the emergency room, dad said his first and last name upon verbal prompting once his blood pressure raised to 108.
Praise the Lord!
Dad was stabilized by the time he arrived to the E.R. Doctors recommended an overnight stay for observation and medical tests including a C.A.T scan and M.R.I.
Mom was shopping with my nieces at the time of dad's emergency, sister was celebrating her 28th anniversary in Aruba, brother was nowhere to be found, and I was praising the Lord in Charlotte.
Life 'just happens'! it unfolds abruptly...
"There is nothing wrong with your dad" mom repeatedly said when I arrived to the hospital room 2 days later. Mom's sense of guilt was noticeable at the time of contact. She would have liked to assist dad during the crisis. "Would she have been capable of doing so?" I kept asking myself throughout the challenging weekend. Mom was confused, overwhelmed and in distress. Later, mom said " I didn't get to witness the incident ...I doubt anything took place" standing right in front of dad's hospital bed. Mom was in total denial then.
I trust God and respect the way he orchestrates life circumstances.
When the doctor diagnosed dad with seizure disorder, urinary tract infection, enlarged prostate, mom was non-reactive. She was unwilling to follow medical recommendations during the first 72 hrs. due to her state of denial.
With family support and patience, mom was able to regroup, and soon realized the importance of medical care. I prayed for mom to keep an open mind and an ability to embrace dad's medical needs after hospitalization.
We were all in distress but each one of us helped each other out as best as we could.
As I walked towards the airline check-in kiosk, doctor discharged dad from the hospital with home-health care as part of his discharge plan. Daddy and I were both on our way home... looking forward to a more quiet evening.
Today, I thank the Lord for his unconditional love this weekend...
I was able to make 'last minute' travel arrangements, had the strength to manage mom's denial, and maintained hope for the future.
I visited Charlotte, North Carolina for less than 36 hours. I had registered for "She Speaks" conference sponsored by Proverbs 31 organization. Hotel reservation and transportation arrangements were made, classes were selected, and work schedule rearranged.
As soon as I sat down in the general session, I felt at ease in making new connections among potential writers in the Christian world. There were at least 600 women waiting anxiously to worship the Lord. As soon as Cheri Keaggy played the electronic keyboard, I quickly focused all my attention to Jesus, embraced his peace and surrendered doubt and fear .
Different classes were offered at "She Speaks" this year from 'magazine article writing 101' to building a platform. Sessions were facilitated by published authors, articulate speakers and reputable editors. The conference had an enjoyable yet well-structured agenda filled with worship music, prize giveaways, three-course meals, networking opportunities, interviews with publishing companies, panel for group discussion, and a variety of instruction about the realities of the writing market.
There are two truths about 'writing'; it is a discipline in which skills develop over time with consistent practice, and it takes perseverance to unlock 'dry' seasons.
By the end of the first night at the conference, I was contacted by one of my dad's caregivers who shared unwanted news! ...
Dad's blood pressure had dropped to mid-30s, and skin color had turned purple prior to the arrival of the paramedics. He was rushed to Aventura hospital. On his way to the emergency room, dad said his first and last name upon verbal prompting once his blood pressure raised to 108.
Praise the Lord!
Dad was stabilized by the time he arrived to the E.R. Doctors recommended an overnight stay for observation and medical tests including a C.A.T scan and M.R.I.
Mom was shopping with my nieces at the time of dad's emergency, sister was celebrating her 28th anniversary in Aruba, brother was nowhere to be found, and I was praising the Lord in Charlotte.
Life 'just happens'! it unfolds abruptly...
"There is nothing wrong with your dad" mom repeatedly said when I arrived to the hospital room 2 days later. Mom's sense of guilt was noticeable at the time of contact. She would have liked to assist dad during the crisis. "Would she have been capable of doing so?" I kept asking myself throughout the challenging weekend. Mom was confused, overwhelmed and in distress. Later, mom said " I didn't get to witness the incident ...I doubt anything took place" standing right in front of dad's hospital bed. Mom was in total denial then.
I trust God and respect the way he orchestrates life circumstances.
When the doctor diagnosed dad with seizure disorder, urinary tract infection, enlarged prostate, mom was non-reactive. She was unwilling to follow medical recommendations during the first 72 hrs. due to her state of denial.
With family support and patience, mom was able to regroup, and soon realized the importance of medical care. I prayed for mom to keep an open mind and an ability to embrace dad's medical needs after hospitalization.
We were all in distress but each one of us helped each other out as best as we could.
As I walked towards the airline check-in kiosk, doctor discharged dad from the hospital with home-health care as part of his discharge plan. Daddy and I were both on our way home... looking forward to a more quiet evening.
Today, I thank the Lord for his unconditional love this weekend...
I was able to make 'last minute' travel arrangements, had the strength to manage mom's denial, and maintained hope for the future.
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