Every Day Follower of Jesus Christ

These men and women were covenant makers, and while their inspired actions were not fully understood through the view of the world in which they lived, they laid the groundwork for God's work and the promises made for the purpose of this land of America. 

"The unexamined life is not worth living." Think about what a life without introspection, reflection, and self-awareness yields.  According to Socrates, it is important to reflect on one's actions, beliefs, and values to understand oneself better and to live a more fulfilling life. Without such examination, one is likely to live a life driven by societal norms and external pressures rather than by personal values and convictions. Socrates believed that self-knowledge and self-awareness were the keys to a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Did I spend the time I wanted to with those I love most. Did I treat them with unconditional love and acts that made them know they were cherished and loved? Did I take the time to call and express love and gratitude for their influence? Did I?

"Freedom fails not from force, but from silence—when good people look away instead of standing steadfastly on the side of truth."

As spiritual author Marianne Williamson stated, "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure." This quote illustrates the paradoxical nature of disempowerment. It may come from a place of fear, a fear of our potential, and the responsibility that comes with realizing it.

...altruism essentially means 'living for others.' It manifests in acts of kindness, generosity, compassion, and selflessness, with no expectation of reward. Altruism prompts individuals to help others even when it does not directly benefit them, which starkly contrasts with the idea of 'survival of the fittest.' 

The voice of God is often described as a still, small voice. It's not typically an audible dialogue, but rather an internal sense of knowing, a "peace that surpasses understanding" (Philippians 4:7).

Peter is one that calls to my soul in many ways. From leaving his nets behind to follow Jesus Christ to Peter's own crucifixion upside down for his refusal to deny that Jesus Christ is the resurrected Son of God

By being beacon like examples, we help those whose light has dimmed—in some cases almost to the point of being extinguished—as outside influences have come to bear and the sometimes harsh realities of life have been experienced.

Today, labels put on people by others are heavy on my mind. Not all are accurate or encouraging. In case you find yourself with labels you want to shed, this is for you.

When we embrace patience, we develop resilience, perseverance, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. It is through the journey of patience that we uncover hidden strengths and grow into the best version of ourselves. 

The flag represents far more than a mere piece of fabric. It embodies the collective aspirations, principles, and sacrifices of a nation. Each element of the flag carries deep meaning. The stars symbolize the states, united and harmonious, while the alternating red and white stripes signify valor and purity. It is a visual reminder of the foundational principles upon which the nation was built.

Like our physical DNA, our spiritual inheritance unites us as a family. It also helps us to know that, regardless of our circumstances in this life, our “spiritual DNA is perfect because one’s true identity is as a son or daughter of God”. As you recognize your true identity, you also recognize your true potential.Like our physical DNA, our spiritual inheritance unites us as a family. It also helps us to know that, regardless of our circumstances in this life, our “spiritual DNA is perfect because one’s true identity is as a son or daughter of God”. As you recognize your true identity, you also recognize your true potential.

We mortals are in very deed the literal offspring of God. If humanity, as a whole, understood, believed, and accepted this truth and lived by it, our sick and dying society would be reformed and redeemed, and men would have peace here and now and eternal joy in the hereafter.

I have my share of scar tissue for being on the edge of opportunities and choosing to be always in the corner of those who others see as simply underdogs. Stepping into the unknown requires courage and a willingness to face adversity head-on. I will stumble and encounter obstacles along the way, yet I know that each of you will be there with hands out, encouraging words, to get up and keep moving forward. 

Faith means believing that even though we do not understand all things, He does. Because He has experienced all our pains, afflictions, and infirmities, He knows how to help us rise above our daily difficulties. He has overcome the world [Bible New Testament, John 16:33]. 

It takes courage to be a real friend. Trust is the foundation of any strong friendship. Trusting someone with your emotions, secrets, and innermost thoughts takes courage. Trusting a friend means risking disappointment, betrayal, or exploiting your vulnerabilities. Genuine friendship requires both parties to demonstrate trustworthiness and integrity; it takes courage to place your trust in someone and be trustworthy in return. Addressing sensitive topics, expressing concerns, or giving honest feedback takes courage. True friends understand that these conversations are motivated by love and a desire to see each other become the best versions of themselves.

Ever asked another, what is it to you? Sometimes, meaning this doesn't concern you. Well, even Jesus Christ, asks us the same question, when we are comparing to another and questioning their divine journeys. Avoiding comparison, jealousy, or even contempt, is not for followers of Jesus Christ, but rather embracing that each of us has our own unique journey as part of God's plan for our growth, learning, and service; we are called to embrace our work wholeheartedly.

Writing your own story embodies the essence of personal empowerment. It is the realization that we, as individuals, can decide the narrative of our life. It is the acceptance of our past, the control of our present, and the shaping of our future. It's not merely about living our dreams but also acknowledging and learning from our disappointments. It's about facing our fears, embracing our failures, and celebrating our successes.

"Impossible is just a word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they've been given than to explore the power they have to change it." - Muhammed Ali