To Serve well

Serving with Excellence for a Life of Excellence

Simple Thoughts Sunday

Simple Thoughts Sunday: Let us run

“Let us Run.” This has always been one of my favorite scriptures because to me it brings action to mind. If you need a reminder…

“Let us run with patience the race that is set before us.”

Hebrews 12:1

I am not a runner, but wish I was. I do, however, identify with the idea that in order to truly live that we have to get up and move forward, regardless of what is going on.

At work, I have the honor of working with seniors. I love them. Just this week I was talking with some of our patient ambassadors and they were sharing stories of their lives, including struggles with diabetes, cancer, family, etc. Their unified message was that you have to get up and move. They also shared about the faith and friends that have provided them strength during their “race.”

That had me thinking, that the first part of this scripture, is often not quoted… This part from my perspective fills in the key part of the truth.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And, let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”

Did you get that “surrounded” part? Envision a stadium – better yet, ARROWHEAD – where the loudest fans in the world are supporting you. Put yourself on the field and throw out any excuses, pain and discomfort, and make a decision to move forward in FAITH. You have a universe cheering you on no matter what position life has you in today.

This is a throw back post from 2018 that just felt right. I hope you enjoyed it!

Wise words at just the right time

I was listening to a podcast earlier this week called “5 more minutes.” As in “It will be 5 more minutes, honey,” or “I am caught in traffic… just 5 more minutes.”  The host, Levi Lusko, shared this story about Ruth Bell Graham, wife of Billy Graham:

Long before she became bedridden, she was driving along a highway through a construction site. Carefully following the detours and mile-by-mile cautionary signs, she came to the last one that said, “End of Construction. Thank you for your patience.” She arrived home, chuckling and telling the family about the posting. “When I die,” she said, “I want that engraved on my stone.” She was lighthearted, but serious about her request. She even wrote it out so that we wouldn’t forget. While we found the humor enlightening, we appreciated the truth she conveyed through those few words. Every human being is under construction from conception to death. Each life is made up of mistakes and learning, waiting and growing, practicing patience and being persistent. At the end of construction – death – we have completed the process.

I absolutely love this truth. I love her bravado in actually putting this on her head stone and am sure I would have loved her spirit. Anyone who has lived quite a few decades knows deeply this reality. 

As our family continues to push through these long days, this message helped me to navigate how my mom would have not only gotten a good laugh out of this, but she would adamantly tell you how true it is. Construction of any kind requires patience, planning, inspection, modification often and the need for ongoing maintenance. She was on this “building” trajectory until she became ill… She was becoming more beautiful with each day and season. 

We have been working on updating the Chicken House on my friend’s hobby farm this weekend. Every step of the way, the symbolism in this message has shined through. One insight today is that stopping to appreciate these steps –– even the “yikes” moments such as nails flying or a missed hammer strike –– can really transport you to the value of work in creating a strong and beautiful foundation for which you build your life on. 

***By the way, getting outside is so important right now! The fall weather is perfect, whether you are getting your hands dirty or just soaking up the afternoon sunshine and being mesmerized by the leaves falling, it is all a balm for the soul.

Have a crazy amazing week and know that your comments and support and prayers have all stopped me in my tracks and literally carried me through this week. My love overflows.

Processing sadness

I partially write this blog each week as therapy. I have been a writer since I can remember, and processing through writing seems to be my go-to. I wish I was one of those “journaling” types that documents their processing for either their own growth, or for future generations to learn from. I am not… it’s not indifferent from my prayer life… I lean into short thought circuits and find myself able to “bullet” out prayers & that is much more useful for my play-by-play processing.

I seem to be straying from my point in writing today’s blog, so I’ll try to get back onto the focus: processing sadness.

My mom is critically ill and under hospice care. I know many of you have walked this path or one similar to it, so perhaps this may resonate with you. The “Processing” part seems to be the challenge to me. I am told we are closing in on this journey, and yet I feel that the horizon is far enough away where I need to maintain hope and help advocate for her best care. I can see and feel the sadness just “over the horizon” and yet I don’t seem to have the ability to shed those tears or be ready in other words for what’s to come. In other words, perhaps I can’t release control over what no longer needs an advocate… I know it’s okay to go full on into the sad part of this, but my processing is clogged up, if you will.

Over the last several days I have prayed her favorite scripture over her… Psalm 23. She shared that it was also her mother’s favorite. The Lord is indeed our Shepherd. Always has been for this family. Always by our side and unrelenting in guidance no matter if we were interested, clearly listening or not at all.

Seasons change and we change, but God does not. It’s the most powerful truth in my life. I know that when I’m ready to process the tears, that the Good Shepherd will be there in that moment too.

If you ever find yourself not being able to process sadness, know that there is an army of people lifting you up and that once you are able to surrender, that God will be with you and that over the horizon there will be beautiful days and the love that remains always through the memories we hold.

Whatever happens this season, bring your best self

This thought raises some questions…

  • Do I bring my BEST self to every conversation?
  • Do I bring my BEST self in my own thinking… my mind…?
  • Do I bring my BEST self to my work place in every moment?
  • Do I bring my BEST self in my financial decisions?
  • Do I bring my BEST self when caring for my community and neighbors?
  • Do I bring my BEST self in spiritual disciplines?
  • Do I bring my BEST self in my health choices?

Goodness, the questions are running rampant in my mind. I think first I need to define what in the world would I consider to be my “BEST” self in each of those categories. As I reflect, they seem to vary from question to question, and honestly from day to day or season to season.

What is my best self on one day varies the next.

I will never forget the lady that shared with me when I was a mom with toddlers, that perhaps focusing on community service at that time in my life wasn’t necessary, but that my best choice was to focus on my children and my career. I needed that permission, if you will, that I didn’t have to do it all… at once. I so wanted to, and clearly she could feel my stress in the conversation and she walked me straight to freedom with her words of wisdom. (I love it when God shows up exactly where you need…)

Seasons require different aspects of our gifts and energy. That alone is a powerful thought.

As we go into our week, my prayer is that we might ask God where and how we can bring our best self. I fully believe he will guide if we will be alert and listen. I believe we need to give deep thought and by that I mean spending time in prayer, silence, meditation, as we ask for wisdom as we fulfill our purposes here on earth.

As always, sending massive love your way.

Love the heck out of your people

No words are more important today than to love your people. Love them extravagantly. Don’t wait to share how you feel. Go big always when it comes to showing and sharing love. 

Everyone needs to feel it and share it.  Honor those who God has placed in your path.  

Today is the day. 

What legacy do you need to honor today?

What is the definition of legacy? According to the dictionary, a legacy is a gift that is handed down, endowed or conveyed from one person to another. My father gave me the gift of his work ethic and my mother the gift of humor. (One of my favorite experiences with her has been over the past few years, just laughing together. That came later in life, and I mention it because I want people to know it’s never too late to be given a new gift, memory, or profound experience. In other words, your parents or others may not have “bestowed” or even have been able to do so when you were a child, yet the legacy is tremendous whenever we receive it.)

My grandparents endowed their spiritual beliefs and a strong value system, of which me and generations after me will be so thankful. My uncle, gentleness and grace. My sister has given me unconditional love and support no matter what. And my brother, pure happiness with his simultaneously strong and fun spirit.

I can think of teachers who conveyed pure kindness and deep empathy and friends that have given me joy in the face of life’s difficulties. Heck, I can even think of authors and speakers, that have used their gifts to inspire me and spur me on toward growth. All of these and more have strengthened me by sharing their gifts.

I share these to get your minds to stir up those in your life that have impacted you. Those who have made you better and stronger and helped create your story. Legacy is not always from someone who is no longer with us… We can and should in fact take time to honor those who are still present. To acknowledge their impact, express our gratitude and reinforce their purpose. When I was preparing this, I found some insights on writing down your legacy and why you may want to do so …

  1. Embrace how much you have learned from life.
  2. Offer a gift of your learning, experience and values to others.
  3. Tell someone how much they have meant to you and give a blessing.
  4. Recognize what’s most important as you navigate the road ahead

This idea of “Whose legacy do you need to honor” today came from the epic @robinnyc, my favorite Peloton instructor. I hope you will take time to honor someone today who has or is making an impact on your life. Spreading joy is oh so important and today seems like the absolute perfect time to do just that.

Creating a joy list: It just may help you rethink how you invest your energy

I love inspirational thoughts and that often happens when people share their stories and experiences. Podcasts are a great venue for receiving this type of motivation for me. Brené Brown always seems to come through with some deep thinking that leaves me feeling the need to share it with you all... (just in case you don’t listen to her quite yet, I highly recommend her podcast, “Unlocking Us”.)

Last week, she shared that her and her husband created a joy list, and that the process was much harder than they realized. ( To me… this sounds fun after all… hard seemed at odds with that….) She shared that their best moments consisted of experiences such as cooking dinner together. I understand that, because a simple trip to the Saturday Farmer’s market would definitely top my list. They then thought through what she referred to as their “acquisitions” and “accomplishments”...The lists didn’t align, and this is where “hard” came in- an honest conversation that created some new thinking and a change of direction.

Think about purchases you make that are on your “this will make me happy list.” Like, a new sofa, a new outfit, etc., and of course degrees, careers, and so on. For her and her husband, those lists didn’t look the same. Even though it may have been a life-long goal to achieve something or to buy or acquire something, those things didn’t make the “joy list.” Not all together surprising, but yet important. It left me wondering how mine would line up.

While I realize that an acquisition for example can bring joy… (a beautiful and comfy sofa can make me quite happy actually) – it is important to recognize that what delivers true joy may be in conflict with all of the focus we bring to obtaining, seeking, acquiring. It is quite possible that a shift toward those “value creation” moments that weave together and create our best days… and ultimately our best lives is the best use of our energy.

This project may in fact be worthwhile for you to do individually, or with your family. No question the investigation itself will provide you valuable insights. What creates the most joy? Let’s do MORE of that, and align our time, resources and energy around building lives of joy.

Simple Thoughts Sunday: Time to exhale

How are you making this Labor Day weekend count? I like to think that this holiday isn’t just about taking a break, but rather about emotionally exhaling.

This weekend used to wind down the summer before school started. Alas, that isn’t the case anymore. August’s onslaught of obligations, activities, etc. are in full force for most of us. But wait, didn’t summer just start? So obviously, Labor Day weekend is a really good time to take a breather.

“Emotionally exhaling” doesn’t take much. (That’s sort of the point.)

Reading, life planning, sharing a meal or two with friends or family, a visit to the farmer’s market, and  a chance to take in the last days of poolside bliss. Those work for me, but for others it’s about rock climbing, marathons and shopping extravaganzas. Reflect on what this weekend should look like for you based on the season of your life. Be a little selfish – you deserve it.

There is a great book that came out a few years ago called “The Best Yes” by Lysa Terkeurst. It calls out to us to make the best decision for ourselves at that given moment and season. So, what does your soul need this weekend? There is still time to make it happen.

Whatever you do with the rest of your long weekend, I hope that you will emotionally exhale.

(Rewind! This is a throwback post that felt really, really relevant to this particular Labor Day!)

Faith, in action: A powerful reminder that will strengthen us all

Here’s what happened this week. Profound.

I have been fighting for a bit over a week now with vertigo (dizziness) due to a chronic inner ear issue I have that flares up a few times a year. This time, it was much worse. I have fought my whole life with the need to be “in control,” so this inability to function normally absolutely drives me crazy! (Laughable, I know, because we all know how little of that we have. Yet… I persist.)

Life is unpredictable. God often grabs my attention (and this time perhaps pinned me down…) by reminding me that the plans that have been laid out for my life far exceed what I could dream up, initiate or “control.” I’m thankful for this, but for some reason my nature is to hold on tight. All that said, I wasn’t doing too well with this episode of feeling like I was pushed off of the road, so to speak.

I was focused on work on Tuesday afternoon when an intense episode came upon me. It took me aback and I sat there contemplating what to do next (as in, am I even able to get up, walk, and go tell someone?). In comes one of our team members. I happen to know this person is a fierce person of faith so I shared my situation. They moved on for their break and on their way out the door said something like, “I’m happy to pray for you.” That alone was comforting. But wait…

A few minutes later, they came back in and shared that their family was really working on “faith in action” and asked if I minded if they prayed over me quickly. I was more than happy to receive that covering. The whole thing undid me, and I found myself shaken not only by the dizzy spell, but overwhelmed by the fact that another person would take a few minutes to pray a genuinely beautiful and thoughtful prayer over me. I was moved to tears. I remember feeling strong enough to drive the 30 minutes home –– at least in that moment.

The experience was profound. The prayer, yes, but also the story… WOW. How often have I said “I’m praying for you” to someone? How many times did I have the chance to in that very moment either reach out for their hand or otherwise pray with them right at that time or even pick up the phone? You can guess the answer to that.

Faith, in action. This is a simple, yet incredibly powerful way to move to healing…. to love. I’m not sure where this teammate of mine is receiving their wisdom or guidance, but I want more of wherever that came from. If they happen to read this, I hope they know it was life-changing for me and perhaps will be for you as well. Their courage made all of the difference.

I hope this serves you all today and sincerely pray that it will strengthen you as you go into the new month afresh this week!

Simple Thoughts Sunday: God’s got you

I saw this on an Instagram post this week and it was fabulous! Here’s what the caption said: “Let me tell you the story of a girl who got so tired of struggling that she gave every single bit of it to God. YES, all of it… And then everything got better. It’s you… you are the girl.”

How great is that? What an important reminder for us all on this Sunday. This sabbath –– the day we are called to set it all aside and rest in His goodness. 

My boys are at that great age where they are realizing that all of this story of God’s power could be true, but yet ask the important question of “how?”

“It all sounds good, but no matter what I do (pray, daily devotions, etc.), I don’t feel God showing up like this promise says.” I’m certain most of us have been in that same head space… maybe you are there today.

Over the years, I have learned that it truly is about “long obedience in the same direction.” (Peterson) This knowing, along with proof points, can only be seen/touched/felt by a constant, surrendering… a commitment to asking God to show up every single day. He seems to always reveal himself over time and His ways of working aren’t to be predicted. Sometimes we wait and wait because God knows we aren’t ready for what we are asking for… That’s always been a powerful truth for me personally. Anyone else?

Sometimes we have to sit with a lack of peace for years on a subject as God quietly weaves it all together. Most importantly, we find His goodness when we literally are disciplined around a consistent thought life that repeats over and over –– “God’s got this.”

This week, what if we all start and end our days with this phrase…? I believe we may just have a shift in the right direction. In the meantime, I am praying that God will meet you where you are today and that the deepest desires of your heart will be received at precisely the time you are ready to receive them!