Okay, so here lately I haven't been feeling 100% myself. I know that this will be a season of feeling like this for a time, because I am close the doors of past rejections in my life. Revisiting the "still open & letting bad thoughts enter" rejections. I am someone who is HIGHLY favored and really valued, because I am a child of the one TRUE king, who is my Lord and Savior- God and his son Jesus Christ.
I am a very successful, independent woman!! When I look back at when I was laid off of work in the mid-summer of '08, I felt like a total failure. When my family looked at me, I would get (and sometimes still do) these feelings of failure, not worthy of love, and total rejection.
But in thinking about all the rejection that has happened recently (in the past week) amongst family and friends I have felt like this cloud of total and utter seclusion and rejection hung over me. I really no longer feel the love from my family (not including my father and my brother Tim). Yes- that feeling of how they view my life as a complete waste of time (their's) is there any and EVERY time I speak to them.
Looking back over this past year- I know that I can say that I have been very successful at forming meaningful relationships with many different people from different walks of life. I cherish each and everyone of them as well.
I started my business in late December of 2009, and kicked it off in January of 2010- AND STILL DOING IT!!!! I love it as well!!! I'm so happy to be apart of the Premier Family and be totally valued for simply being WHO I AM!! You know it doesn't matter that a lot of my family think it is a waste of time or think that I don't do anything when I am in fact busy ALL the time with it. It doesn't matter if they want to support me in it either. I mean yeah it would be nice if they did, but seriously... it really doesn't matter.
I am back in college FULL TIME and on the DEAN'S LIST for the first time in my life ever!!! As well with working part time at an amazing fast food place; Chick-Fil-A!!!
I am VERY SUCCESSFUL!!! Now, the question looms about where I am in life and if I am happy. Yes I am very happy!!! And yes, I still have those days where I don't feel like this. Do I know my purpose for life yet? No, I do not. But I can only pray and hope that I will come into my calling that the Lord has on my life soon.
Until I do, I'm going to keep on being me. And if my family thinks that I am a failure at life, let them. But they better think again!!! Because this woman is on the climb to be a very successful woman of Christ.
If they wish to still throw all of my failures that have happened in my face or try to air dirty laundry they have no right having their noses in... I've got news for them. They have 4 fingers of their own pointing back at them. So before you or they speak THINK about what to say. In the end it will be them making a fool out of themselves, and not out of me.
I'm not perfect and I will not ever be. But you know where I am weak I know that my God is a lot stronger and he will see me through that area, chapter, season of my life.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Thursday, March 10, 2011
What is a friend?
-Sweet Friendship-
Friendship is an art. We all know the satisfaction and benefits of good friendships. There is a real security in having a good friend. We also know that people who seem to be friends sometimes betray us, and disappoint us. They are not true friends in the end
While our emphasis seems to be on having friends, the truth is that in order to have friends, we first must be a friend. And so we each need to learn the art of being a friend.
Proverbs 17:17 tells us, "A friend loves at all times." This means that a friend continues to love, and to show his or her love, whatever the circumstances. A friend is one who knows you and still loves you. A true friend helps you when your need is great.
Friendship is love expressed in acceptance of another person. It is consistent. It is being the one person someone else can count on.
This was yesterday's daily devotional.
Friendship is an art. We all know the satisfaction and benefits of good friendships. There is a real security in having a good friend. We also know that people who seem to be friends sometimes betray us, and disappoint us. They are not true friends in the end
While our emphasis seems to be on having friends, the truth is that in order to have friends, we first must be a friend. And so we each need to learn the art of being a friend.
Proverbs 17:17 tells us, "A friend loves at all times." This means that a friend continues to love, and to show his or her love, whatever the circumstances. A friend is one who knows you and still loves you. A true friend helps you when your need is great.
Friendship is love expressed in acceptance of another person. It is consistent. It is being the one person someone else can count on.
This was yesterday's daily devotional.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Written Promises
I've started the illustration that is the biggest that I've ever done today!!! So super excited!!!
I've got over 25 DIFFERENT scriptures telling the many promises of God. However I could only fit 2 of the 25 on here. And the canvas is 38x44"s!! My brain over thought the space I guess. But you know what this means right? A series of paintings!!!!! Yeay me!!!! Even MORE Excited!!!!
So what 2 scriptures do I have on here? Well Joshua 1:7-9 "Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command- be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." This one took most the board, lol. The 2nd one that I painted is the last one that I had picked out. I like this one A LOT!!! "For we are God's ∫masterpiece∫. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." Ephesians 2:10 When I read this in my study bible that my friend got me about a year ago, I got the God pimples!!! And was almost near tears!!! It's amazing!!!! Enjoy the photos that I've posted of the illustration so far.
BTW: I have a HUGE prayer request!!!!! The next part of this illustration will be a total investment... I need over $250's in oil paints, and I don't have that kind of money right now. If this is God's true will these materials will be supplied- my faith in Christ knows that, and I know that. I've seen so much from Him already. Just pray that the supplies will come soon!! K- thanks!!!
I've got over 25 DIFFERENT scriptures telling the many promises of God. However I could only fit 2 of the 25 on here. And the canvas is 38x44"s!! My brain over thought the space I guess. But you know what this means right? A series of paintings!!!!! Yeay me!!!! Even MORE Excited!!!!
So what 2 scriptures do I have on here? Well Joshua 1:7-9 "Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command- be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." This one took most the board, lol. The 2nd one that I painted is the last one that I had picked out. I like this one A LOT!!! "For we are God's ∫masterpiece∫. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." Ephesians 2:10 When I read this in my study bible that my friend got me about a year ago, I got the God pimples!!! And was almost near tears!!! It's amazing!!!! Enjoy the photos that I've posted of the illustration so far.
BTW: I have a HUGE prayer request!!!!! The next part of this illustration will be a total investment... I need over $250's in oil paints, and I don't have that kind of money right now. If this is God's true will these materials will be supplied- my faith in Christ knows that, and I know that. I've seen so much from Him already. Just pray that the supplies will come soon!! K- thanks!!!
Watching Paint Dry
Waiting for paint to dry on my canvas so I thought I’d blog a bit about what I have been going through here lately. I have been troubled for the past few weeks… okay that is a lie… more like months about numerous things that I tend to squash in my heart and try to pay no attention too. But I cannot do this any longer. Because the “squashed” feelings, emotions, thoughts, and call it what you want are surfacing. I know that they are surfacing because a good friend, Becky Maglich, and I are starting a prayer journey about different things that have been allowed into my life through various different events that I have survived through, been through in my subconscious, and have had to deal with on a “real world” level.
So Becky and I are revisiting these major things and one by one we are casting them out so that they no longer reside in my life, but more importantly hinder my walk with Christ. I have noticed the feeling of rejection a lot in the past days. And that little voice in my mind reminding me that I am not valued, wanted, loved, and even appreciated. It is a daily voice that seems to be a companion of mine (but is so not wanted). The more unimportant the thing that I feel being left out of… the LOUDER this voice is.
Even in relationships (i.e.: with friends, a guy, even among family members) I feel like I am a burden to everyone with wanting to feel needed in our relationship. Simple things… Why did they not ask me to help out, why does it fee like he/she is avoiding me, or even why was I not invited? It has even gotten as far as me counting the days since I last sang with our worship team at church. A strong feeling of betrayal lingers in my mind, but why? Even more so “forgotten” seems to haunt my every thought. I find myself sitting by myself a lot now wishing, hoping, and praying that someone, anyone would read my thoughts, even see past the whiteness in my eyes and see the hurt that is there.
But here lately I am beginning to think that wishes do not come true in this case? It is my prayer that after this journey of closing doors that Becky is helping me through that these voices will cease to be in my thoughts and in my head. I know that they have no place in my life or within me.
But for now words affirmation are really encouraged and wanted. But really do not feel forced to give any if you do not have real words of wisdom and love. I do not know how long this spiritual journey is going to take me, and I can imagine that there will be a lot of tears on the path from me. But what is my comfort is that the Lord promises that he will NEVER leave me or even forsake me. The Lord is my joy, my refuge, and my total strength during this time. He has a promise for me on the other side of the mountain that I plan to take in full of when I reach it!!
I know my life will be better going through this, but for now I feel very stirred.
So Becky and I are revisiting these major things and one by one we are casting them out so that they no longer reside in my life, but more importantly hinder my walk with Christ. I have noticed the feeling of rejection a lot in the past days. And that little voice in my mind reminding me that I am not valued, wanted, loved, and even appreciated. It is a daily voice that seems to be a companion of mine (but is so not wanted). The more unimportant the thing that I feel being left out of… the LOUDER this voice is.
Even in relationships (i.e.: with friends, a guy, even among family members) I feel like I am a burden to everyone with wanting to feel needed in our relationship. Simple things… Why did they not ask me to help out, why does it fee like he/she is avoiding me, or even why was I not invited? It has even gotten as far as me counting the days since I last sang with our worship team at church. A strong feeling of betrayal lingers in my mind, but why? Even more so “forgotten” seems to haunt my every thought. I find myself sitting by myself a lot now wishing, hoping, and praying that someone, anyone would read my thoughts, even see past the whiteness in my eyes and see the hurt that is there.
But here lately I am beginning to think that wishes do not come true in this case? It is my prayer that after this journey of closing doors that Becky is helping me through that these voices will cease to be in my thoughts and in my head. I know that they have no place in my life or within me.
But for now words affirmation are really encouraged and wanted. But really do not feel forced to give any if you do not have real words of wisdom and love. I do not know how long this spiritual journey is going to take me, and I can imagine that there will be a lot of tears on the path from me. But what is my comfort is that the Lord promises that he will NEVER leave me or even forsake me. The Lord is my joy, my refuge, and my total strength during this time. He has a promise for me on the other side of the mountain that I plan to take in full of when I reach it!!
I know my life will be better going through this, but for now I feel very stirred.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Iceology 101
Since I do not have classes today because of the ginormous ice storm I thought that this would be an amazing time to complain of how much I HATE WINTER and EVERYTHING that has to do with this season!!!! Okay, so yeah I love snow... but only ONE day a year.... Christmas. As soon as it's over I'm ready for spring. I am tired of going to bed with my legs hurting and waking up with them STILL hurting because of the drop in temperature over night. UGH!!!!
Okay enough ranting. So today I had to go over to bridgwater to turn in my two forms of identification to Chick-fil-a (the can not get paid me unless I have them). So I get dressed at about 11 AM... Take my time with a nice long HOT bath... wash the hair... the whole nine yards of drying it and fixing it.
I go to "start" my car and let it warm up and scrape ice from the windshield. One small.... LARGE problem. I can NOT get into my car!!! The driver side door is FROZEN shut!!! No matter how much I slam my hand against the ice in a failed attempt to break it up, it doesn't help. Ouchy
So I go to the passenger side to see if I can get in through there. With a lot of elbow grease, and loosing an eye or two... I got in. Started my car and tried with all my might to open that door from the inside- still no luck.
Got out went to the driver side to start chisel the ice away. It took me a good 45 minutes to clear my car to where it wouldn't be an igloo to sit in (from the 1/2" of ice that was on it)!!! My arms are KILLING me now!!!!
When I got home from running around I took some pictures of the ice.... Enjoy
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Small things done with great love, will change the world
In 1998 I was in an automotive accident that left me to be in a coma for four weeks. I remember when I was in the “waking up” stage of my coma, my night sitter or someone told me that I was the cause of the four deaths in my accident and they were all my family, and basically that I was a murderer. Waking up from my coma with a traumatic head injury, I was not in the correct mental capacity. So, imagine telling a 5-year-old that she killed her two sisters’ and her little sister’s best friend. Would she understand and if she did what kind of reaction would she have? I didn’t know who I was, where I was, or what was going on. I remember being alone in my hospital room for the rest of the evening. I began to cry. Somehow, somewhere I knew the blood of the Lamb saved me from the pits of Hell. Wondering why me, what did I do to deserve this? I remember it being so cold in my hospital room, so cold that I had about all the blankets on the floor on me, and yet I was still shivering. I began to cry harder, asking as loud as I could “God, don’t you love me?” “I gave my life to you.” “How could you do this to me?” “I thought you were supposed to keep me safe?” “Why? Why?” I questioned my faith, and him. I was hurt in all ways, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Then I remember my hospital room getting so unbelievably warm, and comfortable, and a feeling of love. Then I heard this voice, “Fontaine, do not fear for I am here. Through me all things are possible. You will live through this, and you will be great… but through me.” He was gone when my nurse came in to see what was wrong and to give me my medications. That night that God spoke to me was what I believe my “Ah-Ha” moment of exactly who God is.
Being raised in a Christian family from birth, I have always “known about” God. As a child and going to Vacation Bible Schools, I asked the Lord to come and live inside of me. Honestly, I think I did it for show and to say “Yeah, I am a member of the family now too. I belong here.” I do not think that I fully understood what it meant to live as Christ and to love as Christ until my “Ah-Ha” moment I had in the fall of ’98. In forming my relationship with my one true God, I have learned a lot about the love that God offers to us as well with a lot about myself. One thing that I still find myself realizing every other second is that God desired to have a relationship with us so he sent his one and only son to build that bridge over the gap between us, by dying for our sins. Yeah, that still gets me every time I think about it. I can now say that I know the Lord and not just know about the Lord. “Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence.” Ephesians 3:12
Most Christians have a heart for service to others that are less fortunate than ourselves. We are in constant communication with the Heavenly Father. I help with many different community service groups. I, as well, go on various mission trips in and out of the country. People in this cultural group fellowship with others by going to faith based events such as; church, contemporary Christian concerts, go to different sporting events and conventions. As well, Christians enjoy fellowshipping in the community spreading the love of Christ to others in a practical way. Practical ways are simply being there to pray for those who are sick, or being a shoulder for someone to cry on. Even lending a simple ear to listen to some one vent out their frustrations (good, bad, indifferent). It is even as simple as making a turkey sandwich with cheese and mustard and handing it to someone who is hungry and saying “God loves you.” With absolutely no strings attached. We as humans are relational beings, meaning we were meant to have relationships with others. Christians desire to work with all and any types of people. Race, religion, political agenda, sex, handicap, and everything else alike that makes us different from each other does not factor in to our motivations.
In the Christian culture we are generally described as Christians, we are even separated by our denomination: Catholic, Baptist, Lutheran, Anglican/Episcopalian, Presbyterian, Pentecostal, Non-denominational, etc. Some of our characteristics that are similar but we are all very different, we all share in the love and acceptance of Christ. All of the denominations agree on some basic things the Bible, and the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). Though there are a lot of various types of people in the world today, there is no visual distinct way of picking out a member of this culture group. We are people just like those who are not apart of the culture, and we are not perfect. We are able to recognize that within ourselves. People who do not belong in this culture group see some of the denominations that are within the group as “Bible Thumpers,” “Crucifix wearing,” “Jesus Freaks ,” “Holy Rollers,” or “Shout you down” Christians. However, as I said above we are our own entire individuals. I know that I have a servant’s heart, and I tend to wear my heart on my sleeve all the time. I like to help where I can and even if I cannot. I know a lot of people who are not like this. They like to go unnoticed, or “fly-under-the-radar” and just do things behind the scenes. The negative views that people who are not Christian, and are the outsiders looking in, do sometimes get the wrong opinion of how a true Christian really acts, especially when they see our faults in the limelight. In which case I hope that person that is calling them self a Christian will make their actions correct when they see them self, acting like a fool. No, I do not think that this judgment of the Christian culture is justified. Rather than from all the hypocritical Christians that smear the good name of God have actually put a negative taste, if you please, in the mouths of non-believing people of the Christian faith.
Most church services are on Sunday mornings and evenings. However, a few churches have services on Saturday nights with a few on Sunday mornings. So they can accommodate those who have busier work schedules, or have kids where Sunday mornings are very hard to get them moving. The Christian culture also celebrates two specific holidays to remember both the birth of Jesus Christ who is the Son of God, and for the death of Jesus Christ and three days later rose again, and is alive today. Both holidays are Christmas and Easter. Many people of this culture have what we call Bibles in our homes. Some have only one that they study rigorously, or there are some people who have two, three, or even four Bibles that are in or around their house. I know for a fact that I have four different versions of the Bible that are all written in different translations, so that I can better study the word and apply it to my life. The Bible is not a “How to” book, but more like a map. As well with the Bible there are different types of music genres that is of this culture. There is gospel, southern gospel, Christian instrumental, Praise and Worship, Christian music for kids, Bluegrass and Country, or my favorite Contemporary Christian (pop) Music. Many different radio stations play this music; some even play only a specific genre. As well there are a variety of Christian authors who write books on specific subjects like, faith, fear, love, what it means to have a relationship with Jesus Christ, weight loss, living in freedom, and numerous bible studies. That being said there are also many other authors who write fiction stories that are action, love, and faith based. From these stories I have found myself falling in love with God over and over again because I look at his passion to be in relation with us. Granted fiction is not true, but, even to begin to entertain the thought that I could be the person that the story is about and have someone fight so hard to “win my heart” or to pursue me, even to help me throughout the story is so heartwarming. Different scriptures of the bible as well that painted, printed, or even etched into an art piece that someone could hang on their wall or in a dorm is in a sense an artifact that they could use for encouragement through any circumstance.
I know that being a member of the Christian family, or cultural group has help to shape me as a daughter, a sister, a woman, a student, and most importantly as a member of the Christian culture because of through various things that I have had my faith tested in. I am still growing in the knowledge of just in fact who God really is and what His purpose is for my life. In some of the things that I go through, he continually reminds me of or has tested me on is that I need to seek him in all things. Pray without ceasing, and, always to endure through the battle, whether it is physical, spiritual or even emotional. Perseverance builds faith in all circumstances. For example, when I was in my accident I did not have all the reasons why I needed to endure such trauma, but the desire that I had to get me where I needed to be to be able to get back to where I once was in life was all I needed for the mental strength to keep on enduring and pushing through to the ability to be able to walk again. Another time was in 2002, when my mother passed away. My world felt like it was just collapsing with me still standing in it. One thing that helped me was holding on to my Heavenly Father’s garment to help lead me through that dark and depressing time. I have learned to praise him for every circumstance, and this is still a struggle for me everyday as well. I know and have the faith in him for his reasons behind everything I have gone through and I am going to go through.
The statement, “Small things done with great love, will change the world” the Vineyard Community Church in Springdale Ohio, has on their building is a strong statement. I find that living your faith outwardly focused is more practical than just saying it. Showing your faith through your actions, and service to others is proof that Christians just do not serve via lip service. I got that when my relationship with God grew into what it is today. My heart is more outwardly focused than it was before my “Ah-Ha” moment in ’98. It is through my words, actions, and service to others that I hope that non-believers would see Christ living inside of me. It is my hope that people see and know that I belong to the Christian Cultural Group.
Being raised in a Christian family from birth, I have always “known about” God. As a child and going to Vacation Bible Schools, I asked the Lord to come and live inside of me. Honestly, I think I did it for show and to say “Yeah, I am a member of the family now too. I belong here.” I do not think that I fully understood what it meant to live as Christ and to love as Christ until my “Ah-Ha” moment I had in the fall of ’98. In forming my relationship with my one true God, I have learned a lot about the love that God offers to us as well with a lot about myself. One thing that I still find myself realizing every other second is that God desired to have a relationship with us so he sent his one and only son to build that bridge over the gap between us, by dying for our sins. Yeah, that still gets me every time I think about it. I can now say that I know the Lord and not just know about the Lord. “Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence.” Ephesians 3:12
Most Christians have a heart for service to others that are less fortunate than ourselves. We are in constant communication with the Heavenly Father. I help with many different community service groups. I, as well, go on various mission trips in and out of the country. People in this cultural group fellowship with others by going to faith based events such as; church, contemporary Christian concerts, go to different sporting events and conventions. As well, Christians enjoy fellowshipping in the community spreading the love of Christ to others in a practical way. Practical ways are simply being there to pray for those who are sick, or being a shoulder for someone to cry on. Even lending a simple ear to listen to some one vent out their frustrations (good, bad, indifferent). It is even as simple as making a turkey sandwich with cheese and mustard and handing it to someone who is hungry and saying “God loves you.” With absolutely no strings attached. We as humans are relational beings, meaning we were meant to have relationships with others. Christians desire to work with all and any types of people. Race, religion, political agenda, sex, handicap, and everything else alike that makes us different from each other does not factor in to our motivations.
In the Christian culture we are generally described as Christians, we are even separated by our denomination: Catholic, Baptist, Lutheran, Anglican/Episcopalian, Presbyterian, Pentecostal, Non-denominational, etc. Some of our characteristics that are similar but we are all very different, we all share in the love and acceptance of Christ. All of the denominations agree on some basic things the Bible, and the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). Though there are a lot of various types of people in the world today, there is no visual distinct way of picking out a member of this culture group. We are people just like those who are not apart of the culture, and we are not perfect. We are able to recognize that within ourselves. People who do not belong in this culture group see some of the denominations that are within the group as “Bible Thumpers,” “Crucifix wearing,” “Jesus Freaks ,” “Holy Rollers,” or “Shout you down” Christians. However, as I said above we are our own entire individuals. I know that I have a servant’s heart, and I tend to wear my heart on my sleeve all the time. I like to help where I can and even if I cannot. I know a lot of people who are not like this. They like to go unnoticed, or “fly-under-the-radar” and just do things behind the scenes. The negative views that people who are not Christian, and are the outsiders looking in, do sometimes get the wrong opinion of how a true Christian really acts, especially when they see our faults in the limelight. In which case I hope that person that is calling them self a Christian will make their actions correct when they see them self, acting like a fool. No, I do not think that this judgment of the Christian culture is justified. Rather than from all the hypocritical Christians that smear the good name of God have actually put a negative taste, if you please, in the mouths of non-believing people of the Christian faith.
Most church services are on Sunday mornings and evenings. However, a few churches have services on Saturday nights with a few on Sunday mornings. So they can accommodate those who have busier work schedules, or have kids where Sunday mornings are very hard to get them moving. The Christian culture also celebrates two specific holidays to remember both the birth of Jesus Christ who is the Son of God, and for the death of Jesus Christ and three days later rose again, and is alive today. Both holidays are Christmas and Easter. Many people of this culture have what we call Bibles in our homes. Some have only one that they study rigorously, or there are some people who have two, three, or even four Bibles that are in or around their house. I know for a fact that I have four different versions of the Bible that are all written in different translations, so that I can better study the word and apply it to my life. The Bible is not a “How to” book, but more like a map. As well with the Bible there are different types of music genres that is of this culture. There is gospel, southern gospel, Christian instrumental, Praise and Worship, Christian music for kids, Bluegrass and Country, or my favorite Contemporary Christian (pop) Music. Many different radio stations play this music; some even play only a specific genre. As well there are a variety of Christian authors who write books on specific subjects like, faith, fear, love, what it means to have a relationship with Jesus Christ, weight loss, living in freedom, and numerous bible studies. That being said there are also many other authors who write fiction stories that are action, love, and faith based. From these stories I have found myself falling in love with God over and over again because I look at his passion to be in relation with us. Granted fiction is not true, but, even to begin to entertain the thought that I could be the person that the story is about and have someone fight so hard to “win my heart” or to pursue me, even to help me throughout the story is so heartwarming. Different scriptures of the bible as well that painted, printed, or even etched into an art piece that someone could hang on their wall or in a dorm is in a sense an artifact that they could use for encouragement through any circumstance.
I know that being a member of the Christian family, or cultural group has help to shape me as a daughter, a sister, a woman, a student, and most importantly as a member of the Christian culture because of through various things that I have had my faith tested in. I am still growing in the knowledge of just in fact who God really is and what His purpose is for my life. In some of the things that I go through, he continually reminds me of or has tested me on is that I need to seek him in all things. Pray without ceasing, and, always to endure through the battle, whether it is physical, spiritual or even emotional. Perseverance builds faith in all circumstances. For example, when I was in my accident I did not have all the reasons why I needed to endure such trauma, but the desire that I had to get me where I needed to be to be able to get back to where I once was in life was all I needed for the mental strength to keep on enduring and pushing through to the ability to be able to walk again. Another time was in 2002, when my mother passed away. My world felt like it was just collapsing with me still standing in it. One thing that helped me was holding on to my Heavenly Father’s garment to help lead me through that dark and depressing time. I have learned to praise him for every circumstance, and this is still a struggle for me everyday as well. I know and have the faith in him for his reasons behind everything I have gone through and I am going to go through.
The statement, “Small things done with great love, will change the world” the Vineyard Community Church in Springdale Ohio, has on their building is a strong statement. I find that living your faith outwardly focused is more practical than just saying it. Showing your faith through your actions, and service to others is proof that Christians just do not serve via lip service. I got that when my relationship with God grew into what it is today. My heart is more outwardly focused than it was before my “Ah-Ha” moment in ’98. It is through my words, actions, and service to others that I hope that non-believers would see Christ living inside of me. It is my hope that people see and know that I belong to the Christian Cultural Group.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Fervently Seeking After the Lord
Back in the late summer early fall of ’10 I went to church with my best friend Mark to the Vineyard Community Church on a Saturday night. We stopped at the Chick-fil-a located on Kemper Rd for dinner. In talking with the manager, Jaseon, there I was informed that they would be opening a location at Bridgewater Falls, right off of By-Pass 4 on Princeton Road early ’11. I asked him if was too early to apply to work there or not? He handed me an application and said that if I filled this out and mailed it back to him that he would forward it to the correct people who would be hiring for that location. I did just that!!!
When Chick-fil-a had a huge vinyl sign hanging from the retaining wall at Bridgewater Falls at the end of summer ’10, I knew that I had to start praying about this job even before they broke ground to build the standing restaurant. Praying how could I work there if hired, what would I do when hired, where did I see myself in the company. Starting to watch for a place that was taking applications for that location was hard. But because they did not do it in their building (since it was still being built), they had used a storefront that was behind the old Toys R’ Us location next to Cold Stone Creamery (who has the bestest ice cream ever). So I went in there and got another application to fill out and turn in. Attached to the application was a separate sheet of paper with 5 questions. I retyped the question with my answers in blue.
Where do you see yourself in 1 year? 5 years? 10 years?
That’s a good question? Where would I like to see myself in a 1-year or even 5, 10 years from now? I have wanted to move out of my dad’s house for sometime now. I am praying that I can get a job to help me obtain the financial means of getting this goal. As well as while I am back in school full time I need a means to help me along during the semesters, and to help me grow more in the business forefront. In 5 years I hope to possibility graduate from Miami with my licensure in Special Education and as well to obtain a job in a school working with special needs children. In 10 years I hope to have a house and maybe even a family of my own.
Who would you say that has been the most influential person in you life? Why?
The most influential person in my life would have to be my mother. I say her because she was the glue that held my family together. She also was the key person that introduced me to the life that I now have with my Lord and King; God She was not only my amazing mother, but she was a best friend and my mentor. I could talk to her and she would not judge me but would counsel me in the “motherly” ways and as a woman of God.
What are the three most important things to you?
I would have to say that the three most important things to me are my bible, music, and my car.
What is your greatest character strength?
I am a very extroverted, personable person, and totally a team player! I have a servant’s heart and an open mind. These are my best character strengths, I believe that each one works together to create me, who I am, and what drives my passions in life.
Why do you want to work at Chick-fil-A?
First off and easily answered: I LOVE THE FOOD that Chick-fil-A serves!! But even more that it is a faith based business. I believe that wit will help develop me more as an adult trying to grow in different avenues of my life. I want to work with a positive team because I am a very positive woman, who loves to work with all types of people.
When I went and turned in my application I had an interview with 1 of their 4 managers. We talked for about 15-20 minutes. At the end of our talking to each other she asked me back for a second interview the following week (mind you this was Tuesday January 18th), because my classes were on Monday and Wednesday and her times were all filled for Tuesday we had to schedule it for Thursday, January 27 at 11 AM.
Before my interview on the 27th I had been talking to Linda Vogt at Miami University about my desire to get a job. She’s had been helping me rewrite my résumé for about a week or so. So I stopped by her office to tell her about my second interview with Chick-fil-a the coming Thursday. We spoke about what I should wear, even for a part time job at a fast food restaurant. We also spoke about my résumé and how I wanted things to read and/or sound to future employers.
So the day of the interview I was so nervous!!! It felt weird to be nervous… but since ’08 I hadn’t worked a reliable hourly job. Sure I worked for 4 different school districts as a paraprofessional substitute, but that job was inconsistent and not dependable. I never knew when I was working next unless it was the night before at 10 PM or the morning of at 5 AM. As well, I haven’t been called to sub but only one or two times since ’11 has started.
I get there for my interview at 10 till 11. Not too early… but not late. I interviewed with 2 managers in 30 minutes. I found out that they do not have a General Manager like most places do. But they have an owner, 4 managers that have the General Manager’s capabilities, and have shift leaders to help run the store. I asked some questions myself like; “If hired now, on my one year review what can I do now that will make it look outstanding?” and “What do the opportunities for growth look like with Chick-fil-a?” I think those two interviews went really well, because at 5:30 that night I got called back for a THIRD interview the following day at 11:30 AM. As well, that interview went really well too.
Saturday morning I was on my way to help out with the out reach that I participate with every Saturday, and thought to take a little thank you note for the interviews. Here I am all bundled up to go and serve with the Good Sam Run with the VCC, wearing a lot of layers because it is outside. Running into the place where they were accepting applications and holding interviews just to drop off this little 3 line typed thank you letter. I got a weird look; let’s just say that. Then went on my way to the VCC.
After that I just left it in the Lord’s hands. I had no control over if they hired me or not. Nothing else I could say or do would help me get it. So I just prayed constantly about it as well with you… my friends.
I knew that Monday January 31st I would get the job offer or not. I had classes ALL day… 9:30-3:30. So my phone had to be either off or on silent. I checked it in between classes; sometimes I peeked at it during class. But nothing yet, not phone call. I get out of Math at 3:15 to a voice mail. It was one of the managers. She told me that she had a job offer and to give her a call back.
It is official!! I am now an employee at Chick-fil-a at Bridgewater Falls. They are set to be open for business February 10, 2011. I start tomorrow!! I go in for a fitting for my uniform from 12-2, and this Saturday from 2-7 for my orientation.
I am SUPPER EXCITED!!!!!
When Chick-fil-a had a huge vinyl sign hanging from the retaining wall at Bridgewater Falls at the end of summer ’10, I knew that I had to start praying about this job even before they broke ground to build the standing restaurant. Praying how could I work there if hired, what would I do when hired, where did I see myself in the company. Starting to watch for a place that was taking applications for that location was hard. But because they did not do it in their building (since it was still being built), they had used a storefront that was behind the old Toys R’ Us location next to Cold Stone Creamery (who has the bestest ice cream ever). So I went in there and got another application to fill out and turn in. Attached to the application was a separate sheet of paper with 5 questions. I retyped the question with my answers in blue.
Where do you see yourself in 1 year? 5 years? 10 years?
That’s a good question? Where would I like to see myself in a 1-year or even 5, 10 years from now? I have wanted to move out of my dad’s house for sometime now. I am praying that I can get a job to help me obtain the financial means of getting this goal. As well as while I am back in school full time I need a means to help me along during the semesters, and to help me grow more in the business forefront. In 5 years I hope to possibility graduate from Miami with my licensure in Special Education and as well to obtain a job in a school working with special needs children. In 10 years I hope to have a house and maybe even a family of my own.
Who would you say that has been the most influential person in you life? Why?
The most influential person in my life would have to be my mother. I say her because she was the glue that held my family together. She also was the key person that introduced me to the life that I now have with my Lord and King; God She was not only my amazing mother, but she was a best friend and my mentor. I could talk to her and she would not judge me but would counsel me in the “motherly” ways and as a woman of God.
What are the three most important things to you?
I would have to say that the three most important things to me are my bible, music, and my car.
What is your greatest character strength?
I am a very extroverted, personable person, and totally a team player! I have a servant’s heart and an open mind. These are my best character strengths, I believe that each one works together to create me, who I am, and what drives my passions in life.
Why do you want to work at Chick-fil-A?
First off and easily answered: I LOVE THE FOOD that Chick-fil-A serves!! But even more that it is a faith based business. I believe that wit will help develop me more as an adult trying to grow in different avenues of my life. I want to work with a positive team because I am a very positive woman, who loves to work with all types of people.
When I went and turned in my application I had an interview with 1 of their 4 managers. We talked for about 15-20 minutes. At the end of our talking to each other she asked me back for a second interview the following week (mind you this was Tuesday January 18th), because my classes were on Monday and Wednesday and her times were all filled for Tuesday we had to schedule it for Thursday, January 27 at 11 AM.
Before my interview on the 27th I had been talking to Linda Vogt at Miami University about my desire to get a job. She’s had been helping me rewrite my résumé for about a week or so. So I stopped by her office to tell her about my second interview with Chick-fil-a the coming Thursday. We spoke about what I should wear, even for a part time job at a fast food restaurant. We also spoke about my résumé and how I wanted things to read and/or sound to future employers.
So the day of the interview I was so nervous!!! It felt weird to be nervous… but since ’08 I hadn’t worked a reliable hourly job. Sure I worked for 4 different school districts as a paraprofessional substitute, but that job was inconsistent and not dependable. I never knew when I was working next unless it was the night before at 10 PM or the morning of at 5 AM. As well, I haven’t been called to sub but only one or two times since ’11 has started.
I get there for my interview at 10 till 11. Not too early… but not late. I interviewed with 2 managers in 30 minutes. I found out that they do not have a General Manager like most places do. But they have an owner, 4 managers that have the General Manager’s capabilities, and have shift leaders to help run the store. I asked some questions myself like; “If hired now, on my one year review what can I do now that will make it look outstanding?” and “What do the opportunities for growth look like with Chick-fil-a?” I think those two interviews went really well, because at 5:30 that night I got called back for a THIRD interview the following day at 11:30 AM. As well, that interview went really well too.
Saturday morning I was on my way to help out with the out reach that I participate with every Saturday, and thought to take a little thank you note for the interviews. Here I am all bundled up to go and serve with the Good Sam Run with the VCC, wearing a lot of layers because it is outside. Running into the place where they were accepting applications and holding interviews just to drop off this little 3 line typed thank you letter. I got a weird look; let’s just say that. Then went on my way to the VCC.
After that I just left it in the Lord’s hands. I had no control over if they hired me or not. Nothing else I could say or do would help me get it. So I just prayed constantly about it as well with you… my friends.
I knew that Monday January 31st I would get the job offer or not. I had classes ALL day… 9:30-3:30. So my phone had to be either off or on silent. I checked it in between classes; sometimes I peeked at it during class. But nothing yet, not phone call. I get out of Math at 3:15 to a voice mail. It was one of the managers. She told me that she had a job offer and to give her a call back.
It is official!! I am now an employee at Chick-fil-a at Bridgewater Falls. They are set to be open for business February 10, 2011. I start tomorrow!! I go in for a fitting for my uniform from 12-2, and this Saturday from 2-7 for my orientation.
I am SUPPER EXCITED!!!!!
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