Today I would like to share two blogs from inspiring people:
A Dreamer's Wife offers inspirational stories from her own life, as well as from other people's lives.
Creative Crumbs is the play-by-play documentary of a young woman pursuing her dream. She has built a business based on decorating cakes and inspiring others in pursuing their dreams.
We live in a world where life can be so easily overwhelming and consuming. Hope is easily lost and only found again when one has the motivation to search for it. Hope doesn't fall in one's lap. Opportunities don't fall in one's lap, unless they have the Midas touch. Any successful person I know has reached their success through hard work and dedication. They don't bow down to trouble and failure; they walk through the fire like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Those three had a secret: there was a fourth in the fire with them. For more information on this traditional Bible story, read Daniel Chapter 3 in the Christian Bible or follow this wikipedia link.
My own story has offered inspiration to others, according to their responses to me, and I hope that one day it will bear the ribbons of success that I seek. As for now, let this brief autobiography suffice:
I was raised in a Nazarene (Christian) pastor's family. It's not easy to live in the fishbowl that is the pastor's family; it's easy to be consumed with what others think rather than with faith in Christ. I could not always do what I wanted to do or what my friends were doing--things as simple as going to the movies or a school dance. I was taught to cling to my faith and believe in the value of the unconditional love of my family, which has since proved worth more than gold.
I graduated from Trevecca Nazarene University with a bachelor's degree in management. Fresh out of college and able to make my own decisions, it seemed acceptable in my own mind to explore my curiosities. I have a compassionate heart and a desire to understand the needs and hearts of others; I understand now, as I did not then, that these gifts have boundaries. I more fully understand what is meant by the phrase, "Be in the world, and not of the world."
During college, I strayed away from the Christian church, but in my mid-twenties, I felt the emptiness inside my heart. I knew something was missing. After a time, I began to have physical pains as I read, searched, and discerned answers. I found the Catholic faith a fulfilling answer, though I am supportive of whatever branch of faith brings a person peace. I understand that much of religion is based on culture and familiarity; I can judge no man for what he believes.
In pursuit of love, I moved to Seattle, Washington. I enjoyed the beautiful city with its rich cultural and aesthetic diversity, but I missed being with my family and friends. When the relationship crumbled, I followed my nose back to Nashville, Tennessee.
Since that time I have found it difficult to land fulfilling work that recognizes and utilizes my skill, talent, and passion. I have made some poor decisions along the way, and I have come to appreciate the lessons from each one. Though I still struggle with the guilt and consequences of those decisions, I am glad to have had lessons I will never forget. I am reminded of the DC Talk song, "The Hard Way."
The poorest choices have been made in the last couple of years. I involved myself in a relationship that lead to poor decisions with finances; I found myself living in a tent for six weeks in early spring (meaning there were still some very cold nights). Now, I am very grateful to have a roof over my head, but I long for more definite provisions like hot water and full-time work. I am very thankful for those who have been supportive along the way; without the love and compassion of friends and family, I would not have made it this far up the steep slope I must climb.
Now, I still seek fulfilling work, I find myself in a mountain of debt, and I am uncertain from one month to the next how I will provide for myself. The difference in me now and the difference in me before is that I have a faith and hope more unshakable, I rely on the love and support of friends and family, and I help others whenever I am able. Perhaps the most appropriate opportunity is right around the corner; the uncertainty of this brings heaviness to my heart and mind, but I continue to be sure of what I hope for, and certain of what I do not see. I love photography, writing, editing, and creative design. I seek opportunities in these areas and welcome suggestions.
Your continued prayers are appreciated.
