The Consistency of Growth

I am really glad that I have this blog. Writing here is my "thing" and the memories and reflections are a pure joy to me. We can forget so many of the precious details in life, we can forget so many of the answered prayers. This blog aids me in remembering and cherishing my wonderful life.

Tonight I sit, and look out the window at my small attempts at gardening. And you know what? I see growth! It really is the best feeling, to see life and know that you played a part of its development. Some of my plants have grown so much that I have had to repot them. Pretty cool!

The thing I have learned about planting is that the growth lies in the consistency. Now each morning I go out back and water my plants. I take a look at their progress, and then go about my day. But, this morning routine is reaping dividends of beautiful growth! I am enjoying the work of my hands...even when I get sweaty and come in smelling like "outside".

Of course my mind draws a connection to the growth of my plants, and any type of growth that we are aiming for in life. It's the consistency, the day in and day out care, that bring forth the rewards. Get rich schemes...nope. Tricks.....no way. You really have to be in it for the daily progress. Ready to each day put your hand to the plow and work.

And you don't see the progress at first, it's happening out of sight. But it is happening! That combination of rain, wind, sun, and consistent care. It has been an utter joy to watch my plants begin to grow taller, and vibrant amazing colors to form. I am a proud gardener!

In my life, as I see areas that need growth (finances, health, work, relationships, faith),  I wonder if I am ready to practice consistency. I want to. The inner me is on the path to growth, though the walk sometimes slows to a crawl. I guess I just need to remember that it is a day to day thing. Better financial choices each day. Increased movement everyday. Care for my babies at work Monday-Friday. Appreciating my family and friends and thinking of them from moment to moment. Praying all the time, and reading my Bible everyday.

These will bring growth in my life. These things will refresh me and stretch me and help me to truly be the absolute best me possible.

Walking in the Light

I looked closely in the mirror this morning. And you know what, I saw the sweet answer to a prayer.
Years ago, I prayed to be beautiful, as God sees beauty. As beautiful as a sunrise, or pale crescent moon. I have never been much for makeup and such, but I realized that those things are not the key to beauty. Beauty is your character, your words, how you make people feel.

I definitely feel like 30 has put me on the path towards the woman I am becoming. I have had thoughts and dreams and prayers about the love and family that I want one day. I still am a planner, but I also experience more. Walking in the light, is a Biblical idea, but in the world I think it also can resonate with anyone who is trying to live in such a way that reflects truth and love. I find those things in God, and he is always interested in my heart and soul, not just my smile and shape.

As I type, I am listening to Sailing by Christopher Cross. The song and beat seem to go well with this post.

Well, it's not far down to paradise, at least it's not for me
And if the wind is right you can sail away and find tranquility
Oh, the canvas can do miracles, just you wait and see
Believe me
It's not far to never-never land, no reason to pretend
And if the wind is right you can find the joy of innocence again
Oh, the canvas can do miracles, just you wait and see
Believe me
Sailing takes me away to where I've always heard it could be
Just a dream and the wind to carry me
And soon I will be free
Fantasy, it gets the best of me
When I'm sailing
All caught up in the reverie, every word is a symphony
Won't you believe me?
Sailing takes me away to where I've always heard it could be
Just a dream and the wind to carry me
And soon I will be free
Well it's not far back to sanity, at least it's not for me
And if the wind is right you can sail away and find serenity
Oh, the canvas can do miracles, just you wait and see
Believe me
Sailing takes me away to where I've always heard it could be
Just a dream and the wind to carry me
And soon I will be free

I am connected closely with my purpose in life. It is at some points natural, and at some points not what I had pictured. But, I can look my natural self in the mirror, I can hear my words contain grace, I can see my life bringing genuine joy to others. I am beautiful! I am learning to walk in the light! Praises!