Sixty-something and feeling lost. After many years of doing various things satisfactorily, I never felt truly fulfilled. I just went through the motions, living in a state of mediocrity. My latest job was at a funeral home and cemetery, where I witnessed people being laid to rest at all ages, some with full lives and others with none. Their final resting place seemed to have no impact on the relentless march of life. That’s what life is all about—we come, and we must go. After a few generations, we become lost to time.
Seeing this every day made me realize that life doesn’t stop for a second after we leave this earth. It’s a fickle thing, and we never know how much time we have. As Oprah once said, our responsibility is to discover our purpose on this earth and use it to make a difference. So, we should all strive to live fulfilling lives, regardless of what we find ourselves doing.
I am grateful for each day I am given, but it also means it’s one day closer to the end of life that I know. I need to make the most of it and not just exist. I would hate to reach my last days and not have been fulfilled by life.
Fear has always held me back. According to the Bible, fear is a result of a lack of faith. I identify as a Christian, but I’ve always been afraid to take the plunge into the unknown. In the past, with my parents’ help, I purchased a business, but unfortunately, it had to close after a year. Partly, it was because I didn’t do enough research, and new government regulations made it difficult to continue the business. In my opinion, a lot of my parents’ hard-earned money was lost. In my mind, I thought and still think that business wasn’t my thing, but I did enjoy helping my customers.
The bottom line is that I haven’t been fulfilled, but I’m afraid to take the leap because of fear and past failures. Should I continue to exist until I reach the end of life, not doing what I was created to do? Or should I take the leap of faith?
I know a reasonable and safe course of action would be to continue working until I discover my true passion. But after I spent a considerable amount of time praying, I heard confirmation in my spirit. Additionally, reading the Bible and listening to ministers of the Word, it is impossible to please God without faith. I felt compelled to put the Lord to the test. After months of struggling with the enemy, who threatened me with homelessness, sickness, and even suicidal thoughts, I could no longer ignore the call from God to do more with my life. I leapt without a parachute, putting my life and faith to the ultimate test. Although I am uncertain about the next steps, I hold onto the promise that He will never leave me or forsake me.
During this time, I have been growing closer to God, creating my art, practicing drawing and watercolor every day, and reading and drawing inspiration from great people and artists. Not unlike many individuals in the Bible, such as Elijah, who listened to God and was never left wanting, I may not be an exceptionally good Christian, but I strive to emulate their example.
When did expressing our emotions or being vulnerable become a sign of weakness? Is it a cultural, racial, or gender-specific issue?
Personally, I couldn’t understand why people would tell someone grieving or hurting to “be strong” and put on a brave face, or tell men, “big man, don’t cry.”
I was born with a sensitive nature and always felt ashamed for being open and expressive. Being “soft” was not an acceptable trait for a man, so I felt embarrassed until I came to terms with the person who would cry at the slightest provocation. It became a source of amusement among my friends.
While it may have been funny, it also instilled insecurity in me. I was afraid of taking responsibility for marriage and possibly having a family, fearing that I wasn’t strong or good enough.
Seeking solace in my faith has been my saving grace, but I can’t help but wonder what opportunities I’ve missed. My assurance comes from the belief that our Lord doesn’t make mistakes and that He will use all things for my good.
She has endured a lot in the years she has lived on this earth. Charlotte, a person who cherishes people, has lived a life filled with ups and downs. Despite these challenges, she always manages to find the “bright side” of every situation. Some of her friends believe she’s putting on a show because they can’t comprehend how she maintains her upbeat and optimistic demeanor.
Her favorite saying is, “When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.” However, when she utters this phrase, some of her friends and family roll their eyes or chuckle, as if expecting another one of her “shows.”
Charlotte was born in a rural area of North Carolina. With only a grade school education, she attended school only on days when she couldn’t work in the fields picking tobacco. The work was arduous, and the pay was meager, but the owner of the farm provided her with a house. The house had a well and a manual pump for water, but the bathroom facilities were outdoors. She used a chamber pot at night and on cold days because it was too difficult to reach the bathroom.
Although her life wasn’t luxurious, she woke up every day grateful and with a song in her heart. She was thankful to be alive, to have a roof over her head, to have fairly good health, and to have her family. Life had never been easy, but she believed that the Lord always provided for her.
Throughout her life, Charlotte has witnessed and experienced riots between races, boycotts, racism, and police brutality against he Every Sunday, you can find Charlotte at the front of the church, shouting and dancing in the aisles. She makes joyful noises, praising the Lord for taking her through another week and asking for continued blessings.
Wednesday evenings are spent at the sewing circle with her church sisters. The quilt she’s been working on is more than halfway completed, and she plans to finish it before winter. This quilt holds special significance because the materials used are old rags and clothing that she’s been gathering for years. Some of the clothes belonged to her parents, who both passed away, but she kept them long after their passing, which is over twenty years now. All the ladies in the circle admire its vibrant colors and shower her with compliments.
One day, while working on her quilt, a nine-year-old boy named Ray, the grandson of one of the white ladies, approached her. He held her hands and asked why her hands were so scarred and rough. Ray was visiting his grandmother from the city and had never encountered people who engaged in manual labor. Initially, his grandmother, feeling embarrassed, tried to stop him from asking questions, but Charlotte reassured her that it was okay. She explained that she had worked hard every day of her life but was grateful to the Lord.
Being an inquisitive child, Ray walked over to his grandmother and examined her hands. Although they were wrinkled, they were soft and well-manicured. He whispered to her, “How come your hands are different?” She didn’t answer him.
In her mind, she recalled the days when she was privileged to attend school every day. Sometimes, she would see Charlotte walking to the fields while she was on the school bus heading to school. She wondered if her life had turned out better or worse because she too had faced challenges in her life in different ways. She thought about how life is like a quilt made up of various pieces or experiences—some good, some bad—but when sewn together, they create a magnificent tapestry or life.
One of the benefits of the time change is the evening are longer. While enjoying one of these evenings I took a ride around the neighborhood and this gentleman was on the sidewalk with this sign. He stood on the bicycle path, so I came off the sidewalk and rode past him. As I did , I tried to read what was written on his sign. I wondered what he wanted to tell me.
It intrigued me so I turned the bicycle around and stopped him. I learned that he and his wife are from Egypt, and they are Christians and have been in the US for over ten years. He wanted to tell everyone he encountered the good news about salvation and that we are entering the end times were here.
Even though he speaks very little English and elderly he still is making a difference. He inspired me; I’ll remind myself when I have the next pity party (wondering why I am here and can I make a difference). That I should get up and show up and do my small part to make a difference in someone’s life today. Be blessed.
Why are we Here? Why do we exist? Most of us, if we are lucky, will live for at least seventy years. some will figure out why reasonably quickly; some never do. If you look at the statistics, you will find that the people who figure it out and do something to bring it to past live a happier and more satisfying life.
The other night I have the distinct pleasure of meeting Yvette Norwood Tiger and her husband at her jazz performance at the famed Ball and Chain in the Historic Downtown Miami. This club has been there since 1935 and has seen many notable jazz and blues artists.
Ms. Norwood-Tiger has a voice that reminds me of Ella Fitzgerald or Billie Holiday and she sings in many different languages. I went to her website and saw that she has tour dates not only in Florida but she will be going on a European tour. When she comes to your city, go see her; she is phenomenal.
If you are privileged to see her show, she usually will share her testimony that many years ago, she was diagnosed with a brain tumor, and the doctors did not expect her to survive. If she did, she would not likely be able to sing or even listen to music again. But along with Gods grace and some good doctors, she survived and has become an international Singer.
I got the chance to chat with her between sets. Yvette was born with this ability to sing, but because of fear, she never sang publicly. In fact, neither her mother nor father heard her sing until just before the end of their life. She hid her talent from everyone even to those closest to her. I was flabbergasted because to see her on stage, it’s like she was transported to her happy place. It is like this is where she was born to be.
After further probing, I found out that she is an introvert, but after being to death’s door and after being given a chance at life, she decided to use her talent, her GOD given ability, the reason for her existence. With the Lord’s help, she conquered her fear, and now it is her passion.
We are all guilty. we all let fear or some other excuses to hold us back stop us from being our very best self. We get an unknown amount of years to make a difference. Are you satisfied with the years you have used? Make a difference today! Don’t wait for the perfect time.
In September 2018 I went to Costa Rica for the first time. What a beautiful Country! From landing in this country I could see the beauty in the land and the people.
I made the trip with my sister (we adopted each other) and her husband who visited the country before and fell in love with it and encouraged me to come down and I am so glad I took them up on the invitation.
We are staying in a small town in the shadow of the Arenal Volcano called La Fortuna a quaint town with lots to do. We are here in the offseason or rainy season. As long as you are ok with it raining every day it’s great! Very few tourist around, No crowds, just you hiking on the trails just bring rain gear and wear waterproof shoes because of the rain and mud.
The temperature is perfect 75 degrees with a slight breeze. I seat in my Airbnb apartment with the front and back door open and the breeze and sounds are enchanting the birds, roosters, and raindrops coupled with the breeze make for a perfect lazy Sunday morning. Looking out the back door at this majestic Volcano wishing I never had to leave.
I will be back Costa Rico, I’ll be back La Fortuna. Thank You for one of the best vacations.
When I am fearful, or I am unsure of the outcome it is so easy to say no. To not step out of my comfort zone, not to take a risk. There are countless times I have chosen to take the safe route.
No more! From now on, I will say yes even if I doubt my abilities or the voice in my head is saying you are not good enough. As the saying goes, the Lord does not call the equipped. He equips the called.
A few days ago a customer that approached me several years ago about helping her with her project, but because I was unsure of my abilities and I convinced myself that I had nothing to contribute, so I avoided committing to a meeting. Reached out to me and wanted us to meet, I said yes, and we had a constructive meeting, and now we are working together on completing her project.
There are many accounts, where people who were not qualified in a particular area that has made significant strides in the same area.
If you have a gut feeling that you should be perusing particular profession whether it is preaching, acting, photography or any other occupation, you Will make a difference, step out in faith and go for it. Your true Happiness depends on it!
It is easier said than done…..because I struggle in this area every day. There are times I feel unworthy or ill-equipped. This is where affirmations are important. The more I say YES to being uncomfortable. The more I step out in faith, the stronger I will become.
There is nothing that we cannot do without His help. Make a difference! Live your destiny!
I have said it before many times LIFE IS SHORT, ENJOY THE JOURNEY. It has been a dream of mine for some time and now, a goal…. To travel the United States in a Travel Trailer.
I decided to document my journey starting from today.
I was listening to a preacher, and he spoke about the Faith of Bartimaeus, a blind man who pursued Jesus for healing. Bartimaeus had stepped out with Blind Faith literally.
This resonated with me, and confirms that HE wants me to proceed with this endeavor! And it will take Blind Faith to see this one through.
So with that, I proceed, and I will try to listen to My Lord’s direction.
After thinking about the best way to travel, but staying open to the Lord to change and direct all aspects of this Journey, but my vision is to buy a 4 wheel drive type tow vehicle and travel trailer. This combination should be efficient and economical to transport.
Outdoor Photography is one of my passions and creating beautiful images. I will be traveling the country finding beautiful Images that inspire, uplift, motivate and bring peace to individuals.
It is my sincere belief that we all are placed here for a reason, and each one of us has a passion, unfortunately, not all of us are brave enough to follow our bliss.
It is so easy to come up with excuses why something cannot be done. Excuses hold us back from using our God-given potential. Get rid of the excuses in your head, Just Do It!
Ok Before the trip starts what will I need?
A way to generate income on the road.
A reliable tow vehicle like an SUV that will be able to pull a trailer
A Travel Trailer
What about this current job do you like?
Meeting new people every day and helping clients create their printing/publishing ideas or projects.
Editing images
What are my personality traits? (the way I see it)
Empathy, caring, upbeat, and positivity.
It is also my belief that everything that happens to us good and bad will be used to accomplish your goals. Our experiences will mold us and shape us if we allow the Lord or the divine to use it for good.
Be Open
Be Flexible
Be Positive
Be Brave
Be Confident
And have Faith Knowing the Lord or the Divine will Come to meet you where we are!
For the past few days, I have decided to disconnect. Disconnect from the news and all negative social media. This gave me an opportunity to adjust my attitude and my outlook. As I ask the Lord to help me process the events of the last few days where the country (my country) has elected Donald Trump to the Presidency of the United States. After much meditation and praying, I have come to this conclusion.
Where do we go from here? Is on many people’s mind. Some people are relieved, and others are disappointed. But regardless if you are exuberant or saddened, as a country we have to go on, and we have to move forward.
For all my Christian friends on either side of the issue…… this outcome is not a mistake. The Lord has allowed Mr. Trump to get to the White House. We all agree that when he started out, many of us did not take him seriously. He was the underdog but yet he triumphed! It is my opinion he had God on his side.
For everyone else regardless of what you believe, I am sure you will agree that this is not a mistake.
The question I asked myself and would like to ask you……. Am I willing to accept the results and move forward and work together for the good of the country? If your answer is YES! then we have work to do.
Accept that our President is now going to be Donald Trump.
Stay Positive. Refrain from entering into negative talk about this election and our President-elect.
Disconnect from any or all media that sensationalize this process. (personally, have avoided listening or watching the news or coverage of the election)
Go out and volunteer. You can make a difference in your small circle.
Pray that the Lord will use Mr. Trump to really make America Great Again for all and not a few.
Life is short, and we are only here for a short time, Let’s unite and make a difference. Make a difference for our children and for our grandchildren. Put away Greed, Anger, and Resentment. As the Lord said……… Love Your Neighbor As Yourself.
The popular saying a few years ago was, “S**t happens”. Well, I am here to say that all of us have unfortunate things that happen in our lives, but the big difference between one another is our reaction.
I am no expert by any means but from my observations. As human beings, we have a tendency to want to blame ourselves, blame someone else, or blame God. But in any case, we try to rationalize why situations occur the way they do. All these reactions are not constructive in my opinion.
I had the opportunity to learn this a few days ago. I potentially lost a significant amount of money (at least for me). Money that I was planning to use… I watched the opportunity literally fall out of my hands!
A friend was with me and I could see the pain of not been able to help in his face. It felt like someone punched me in the stomach. After I got over the shock and started to breathe I felt myself wanting to play the “What if” game in my head… What if I did something different? What if I did it earlier? And so on. I had to stop this line of thinking, realizing it was not constructive. From there, I analyzed the damage and started to be thankful. Thankful that the situation was not worse. Thankful for the opportunity to learn something that God wanted to teach me.
It’s a simple fact that we live in a corrupt world and bad things happen. But I believe that God allows bad things to happen so that we all have the opportunity to learn, grow, and become spiritually stronger. If life was too easy, what use would we have for Faith? What need would we have for God? Would we even appreciate Him?
So I made a choice: move on and appreciate the Lord and ask for His guidance
As the saying goes, when life gives you lemons – make lemonade!
HE is the potter we are the clay………Pain is inevitable, the struggle is optional. We all go through some kind of difficulty in our lives and when I ask why Lord do we have so much pain in our lives the answer I got was in order to build our faith and increase our praise. I have come to learn that worry and fret does not fix anything…it actually is more destructive to our mental happiness and destroys our peace.
Crying out to God asking him for strength to ride out the pain which in pottery its the hardening process. God will never give you more than you can bear… I know that when you are in it nothing can be worse and it feels like you will never survive but I am here to say…….With GOD’S help, you will make it through, and it will be your testimony the harder the trial the Greater the testimony.
In my life I have had some pain to the point of a suicide attempt, the pain seemed so unbearable, it seemed like it was no way out. I told myself I was no good….. worthless. All negative self-talk that is so unhealthy and is from the pits of hell. God does not make junk! As I read Psalm 139, David reminds us how much I am valued by God.
I hit rock bottom and did not have anywhere to turn at 4 am in the morning, I went on my knees and asked God to take the pain away to show me a way out. And he did, for some reason, I had my laptop with me, and I decided to open Facebook, and God sent and Angel in the shape of an old friend that I had not spoken to for a long time and lived in a different country. She sent me a message via Messenger inquiring why I was up in the wee hours of the morning and that she could not sleep. And she talked me off the ledge. We text back and forth for hours, and through her, I realized that God needed/wanted me here to make a difference and there is always a way out.
It has been a few years now, and I realized how foolish and selfish I was, I would have left work undone on this side of Heaven and inflicted, even more pain in hearts of all the people who love and care for me. Thank You, God!
There are a few things I want to reiterate……..When you are in pain,
Reach out to God in prayer…. Ask him to help you through your valley experience
Stop the negative self-talk….. Everyone is here for a reason you are unique and precious
Know that all will be well…… There will come a time that you look back it won’t seem as bad as it looks now.
Share your experience…… Help someone else that maybe going through a painful experience and need a word of encouragement.
It is sincerely my hope that I will help someone in their time of need…….. Peace and Be Blessed
Ephesians 2:10 NLT 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.
Lynden's Wild Travel Adventures 