First I had to find the boat...

Recently, in a television interview on Wendy Williams, Jennie Garth shared information about the relationship between her and her husband. They've been married for quite a few years but were together several before getting married. Garth shared that her husband confessed that he needed to "make sure the boat was strong enough to cross the ocean."

What a powerful and enlightening thought for anyone considering "sailing". I mean here is an analogy that really does reflect the journey of marriage--through the sunny days of calm and peace at sea to the storms that come, tossing the boat and beating it with harsh waves...Isn't that a relationship? Can the boat endure? Like the boat, a marriage "carries" precious cargo and there is a destination or purpose.

So, this quote has stayed with me since the day the interview aired, and in many ways I can relate due to the fact that similar words have parted the lips of the man I am talking to. And, in many ways, I agree. We move forward knowing who and what we desire in this life--each other, but this process is quite a bit of a slow one (in my eyes), which leads me to question how confident we are in this boat's abilities. Maybe it isn't the boat but its sails, or the color, or the wood chosen? I don't know...While I work to remain patient, there are truths I know as a woman and in having close male friends. I suppose the final word will be that of God's, and I have to trust that no matter the outcome all things are working for me (Romans 8:28).

Cleanliness is next to...

In keeping with the saying, today's major task and focus was a physical cleaning of house. As I go through this process of purging, putting away and storing things, I am reminded that with new, fresh surroundings there is likely going to be some form of change coming. I welcome it. I welcome the next chapter and journey--whether it be in my personal or professional life. I feel it and know it is time.

On that note, I am going to rest and reflect on the promises of the Lord. I know that because I have taken what seems like a normal and natural process of just cleaning there is something bigger coming...While I may feel it has been delayed, I know there is something I have to learn in the bigger scheme of things...something I'm being prepared for...Obedience is far greater than sacrifice.

Here's the J. Garth interview from Wendy...

Living Life Skillfully

The latest battle has been doing with a cheerful heart. While I am often doing things for others at work, with children I mentor, and in my personal life, I am not always enthusiastic about doing it. In fact, I have a few close people in my life who I typically turn to in order to complain about why I feel things tend to fall in my lap to take care of or get done. It is hard trying not to show the frustration, exhaustion or irritation when it comes to needing people to step up to the plate and JUST DO IT. If you have the ability to and can help somebody, just do it...It's what I tend to model for others regularly. However, this week I was convicted due to my outer and inner not aligning. I do, but I knew in my heart I was going through the motions, expecting something in return, and becoming angry because I desired credit or appreciation in return.

I am reminded of Proverbs 19:21, "You can make many plans, but the LORD'S purpose will prevail."

Regardless of what those around me may be doing, God's only concerned with my motives and actions. It is my desire to please him. And, fortunately for me--all of us--he cares enough that regardless of how simple we may act or respond to his will, he will still take us to that place of fulfilling our purposes.

As I come to the last week of studying Proverbs, perhaps what I've been constantly reminded of in this book are the following: fellowship/actions with others, practical instruction for life, preparation for any day of the week on the hour, and (of course) the importance of wisdom and applying it.

God is my source. When I think of everything He's sacrificed and given me, I'm reminded that I ought to give my very BEST in everything...not for glory, benefits, handouts, or anything else, but simply because I can because God has equipped me to be able to do so. I want to be the best me I can be because I was created by the best there ever was...Why wouldn't I want to showcase Him in my swagger (Laughing)?!

And, it is funny or ironic: The more we give, serve and do, the more we're blessed. When we're obedient, life comes together. Why simply exist in the world??? LIVE!

I am skilled in living (for him), which makes every challenge or situation I face one that can be managed, achieved and overcame!