Merry Christmas

First off, can I just say, Merry Christmas! You've probably heard this phrase about a hundred times today, but I don't want you to forget it. I feel like sometimes we get caught up in the things we have to do to make the holidays a success, and we don't stop and smell the eggnog. I want to give you a challenge, this holiday season, I want you to stop and say what God has gave you this past year. Where did you feel God throughout the year? And most importantly, What does Christmas mean to you?
Sure, you may put on a good act in church, you may even commit to a youth group, or go to Sunday school every week. But what is something that you need to work on? We are all imperfect human beings, nothing can change that, but we can strive to be better. For example in my life, I may be a hardcore Christian with good intentions, but I lack devotion throughout the week. I have fallen short of commitment and I don't even remember the last time I sat down and had an honest conversation with God. What is something you can do this upcoming year, to remind yourself, of where you came from. Of who sacrificed his life, so that you may have the choice to do something different in yours and in the lives of those around you.
This holiday is to remember the birth of the one who was set apart to save us all. This world is a screwed up place, but with more people being the light of that little baby lying in the manager, there will be a glimmer of hope. If more people spread the word, that there is a Messiah who died for you. He came into the world so that every last one of us would have a chance to have an intimate relationship with our Father who so desperately wants one with us.
There are people out there who choose not to spend the holidays with certain people. I want all of you to know, it doesn't matter. It doesn't matter if it's your mother, who you haven't seen in 10 years when you ran away from home. It doesn't matter if it is a rivalry including jealousy between cousins. It doesn't matter if you're still arguing about the silly disagreement that prevented the entire family from talking to each other ever again. Christmas is a time of reconciliation and forgiveness. It's about being with the ones you love, and most importantly the ones that need love. God wants us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute you. So, if there is someone who you aren't on good terms with this holiday season. Take this opportunity to set aside your differences and to come together again. Because Christmas is much better, if you celebrate as a family. A family with differences, and disagreements. But a family that has put that aside, because their love for each other is much greater than that!
Merry Christmas, and I hope you all have save travels this season!!! May God bless you and protect you this upcoming year!

My Testimony

The other day, I was asked to speak to my youth group about my story. At first, I didn't know what to say. My story doesn't have one of those awe-ha moments, where I realize Jesus was the way. But, that got me thinking, that's what makes my story relatable. I decided that some people may want to know more of who I am as a person. Why my opinions are what they are. As the person reading this, you may not know me personally. I feel like that is a problem, because I want you to have a connection to me and want to help you in any way I can. That being said, here is my Testimony: (shortened, because if it wasn't we'd be here all day.)
I grew up in a christian home, and was raised to believe in Jesus Christ. So many people think that Christians don’t have any problems, that once you accept God into your heart all of your struggles disappear, I was also one who thought that. When I was in a bad situation, like when I lost my Grandma, I thought, Why God if you loved me so dearly would you take her away from me? I thought that God must love me less because he didn’t save her. I went through a time of grief, and at the time was also battling bullies at school. I turned away from God thinking that he didn’t have something worthwhile in store for me, that I was better off making my own path, that I didn’t need him in my life.  But then I realized something, no matter how hard we try to make our own plans work they don’t. Everything seemed like it was falling apart and I had no idea what to do. That day, I picked my bible, for the first time in a very long time and turned to Jeremiah 29:11- “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” And at the time I didn’t believe that verse, I didn’t want to believe that verse. I wanted to think that I could do everything on my own and that I didn’t need God’s help. My friend was there for me when I needed her most, and she helped me see, that no matter what I did to reject God, he was always waiting for me to come back to the path he originally intended. It was at that point that I realized God wanted me to believe and have hope of better things, he wanted me to carry that hope with me throughout my daily life. And that no matter how anyone else sees me, it doesn’t matter, because I am created in God’s image. And although God doesn’t make my struggles disappear, he makes them bearable enough for me to handle.
I will probably post tomorrow if we have a snow day! For all those people not from Michigan...a snow day is when the roads are so bad you can't get out of your driveway!
Like always, I'll post later!

Rant

Hey Everybody!
Today is going to be a different type of post. I was thinking about what to do today, and realized I never post anymore. I have a talent (even if it is a small one), but God has granted me the power to share my voice.To speak what is on my mind, and sometimes you can't make sense of what you want to say...but you just type and see what comes out. I am currently praying for numerous people in my life. These people shall go nameless, but they are struggling. Physically, Mentally, and Because some of them don't know God the challenge is harder. I don't know how to reach them at the place and time in their life and in their stages of what they are going through. I don't know what is going to happen and that is very hard. I love being in control of what is happening in my life, in the people's lives around me, and especially the future. I feel like I can't help them right now and I pray that God give them what they need at this current point in time.
I started writing Spoken Poetry, if you don't know what that is I suggest you look it up on YouTube. It really found a place in my heart and ever since then I have not been able to stop. That being said, I may eventually share some of that, but I don't know how yet. Once I figure that out I will let you all know!
It's the season of Christmas! My brother is coming home in twelve days and I am so anxious for the joy he will bring to my household. I don't know if I'm getting anything, but honestly I feel like our society is too focused on the gifts, they don't see the gift of family, the gift of God as a baby.
I feel like my thoughts are all over today and I apoligize, but I hope you get something out of this rant.

My Snapchat and apologies

So, it has been like forever. And every time I say I will write more to make up for it. But lately I've been so busy that I just kind of got overwhelmed. Especially with swim conference and all of that! So I guess what I am trying to say is that I am sorry and I will try to be better of keeping up on this blog but I'm not making any promises, just in case I can't keep them! However tonight I have some writings that have been done but I haven't posted them yet so stay tuned!

Anyway, I created a snapchat just for you all, so you know when I post and new ideas I've been coming up with! Go friend me on Snapchat! My username is: swim_nuggets

The one Turtle

I first created this blog so that I had a way to just write my thoughts down. I didn’t expect to have anyone read it, not even the few that actually do. But it’s cool to see one or two people actually caring enough to read, even when my thoughts may be all over the place. I don’t know, you all may actually understand it, but I highly doubt that. My mind is very complex and if I mapped out it would be a spiderweb with arrows pointing in millions of directions. Anyway, I guess what I am trying to say in a indirect mess of words is that I appreciate everyone reading this right now, you all mean so much to me, whether I know you personally or not! You may not think you make a difference in this world but everything you do matters. This reminds me of a story. Once a little boy was walking the beach and saw a bunch of baby sea turtles in the sand. His mom told him they were leaving and he only got to put one turtle into the water. Later on he was asked why he thought putting one turtle into the water would make a difference. He responded, “That one turtle has a chance to survive, live life, and create a new generation of turtles. That one turtle may not seem like he could make a difference, but he could help save the turtles from going extinct!”

So don’t say he is just one turtle. You may be one person, but it only took one person to say, “What if?” It only took one person to invent the lightbulb, one person to say no I will not get up from this seat because I am of a different color. One person, who did one thing, one person, who went against the normal way of living.

Don’t underestimate yourself or any other, because you can change the world for the better!

Pray For #1

Water you turned into wine this symbolizes the return to Joy pray for those that lost their lives in concentration camps thank you for the ability to laugh my heart is open to your word faith device that helps keep my eyes on you and your plan Rejoice God has brought great joy people come together to Joy pray for my enemies and those who do not know you fruit of the spirit deficient time we need to find for connections help me to follow you this week thank you for time to sleep pray for the families that are not eating together I'm blessed with the family who loves me unconditionally give cards to those who start to lose hope pray for people who struggle to get through the day protect the students everywhere who are still deciding what they want to do in life let everyone see your righteousness forgive the trespassers for they do not know who is president in the community thank you for all that you've done and plants do in my life I give my future to you

Update

Hey Everybody, I'm sorry. I haven't been active on my blog or posting or even writing lately. With school starting back up, my life has been nothing but chaos. Along with that has been a busy schedule where I've been go, go, go, and have not had the chance to just sit, type, and reflect. One of the things I love most. So as an apology, I will be coming out with a lot of writings within a short period of time. This does not make the content any less than my best. Some of these writings I wrote during the summer and some I'm working on now, so they will all be with my 100% effort. Plus, I've started a new class of creative writing. On unit is on poems, so I feel inspired to write some new poems and will get those out ASAP, thanks for the patience and sorry again it has taken me so long to write some more content!!!
Also we had to create a weebly site for my writing class so the link is down below, these are some of the writings I did for my class! And just to warn you ahead of time, some of my writings are super dark and sad, but in reality I'm truly a happy person! It is like I become someone else when I'm writing and create a story for them as me.

www.memorablewritings.weebly.com

The Football Player Controversy

In the United States there has been controversy over a football player who refused to stand during the national anthem.I get it if you don't agree with everything here in America, but our country is still an amazing place to live. I'm sure everyone has someone in their life that has made sacrifices for them. You need to think about the people fighting overseas and for what, people not respecting them, not standing to say I appreciate your sacrifices. Yes, you may not like this country, but there are people fighting for this country, there are people dying for this country! Sure, I may not agree with everything that has happened in the past but that doesn't mean that I'm going to depreciate those who served and what this nation and anthem stands for. I'm not saying that one person is right in this situation we've all had some race issues, I don't know a country that hasn't had problems. But I can say that the only way we can get through all this, is to be UNITED as one nation. Not some people sitting and choosing what battles to fight and which ones to sit out. Our soldiers are fighting for their lives and instead of being a good american and standing you sit. I am thankful for the food in my stomach and a roof over my head. We all have freedom to the right of speech, if you wanted to speak out about police brutality, go right ahead. But not standing for the national anthem is not going to stop bad things from happening. It is disrespectful to everyone who has worked to help save us from a terrible society. Yea our country may not be perfect, but I'm pretty sure you know dang well how bad others have it! So next time you think you are gonna insult us, don't do it from the United States, because that is a slap to the face for everyone who works hard to help this nation. This is the land of the FREE and home to those who are BRAVE enough to risk their lives for us. This is what an AMERICAN means and if you don't like that you can choose to go somewhere else!

I'm sorry if I come off a little harsh I'm just mad that instead of doing something to stop what is happening to police, blacks, whites, no matter the race, that you decide to disrespect not the people who are in the headlines, but all the people behind the scenes, the soldiers, the naval, people dying everyday so that you can say that you have the right to speech and opinion!

Just Keep Swimming

There are many different reasons why you get involved in something, whether it be a sport, a club, an organization, or others. There are even more reasons why you stay committed to something. Even if all of them may not be logical, like being forced to do it when you despise it with all of your being.
I started swim when I was little, and I can thank my grandma for being a part of something I am so dearly passionate about. No, it wasn't because she was a swimmer so it 'ran in the family', in fact it was quite the opposite. My grandma was terrified of bodies of water, and because of that my parents didn't want me and my siblings to be the same way. So, as I kid I was enrolled in swim lessons and the rule was we couldn't quit swim until 8th grade then they'd let us choose. I've come to realize, I don't know where I'd be if it weren't for swim. It is were I learned how to control my emotions, when I was angry I put that energy towards the swim. Some of the hardest moments of my life were put into each stroke, each breath, each flip turn. I swim, not because I want people to give me glory for it, not because I like beating people, not because I've got nothing better to do. I swim because it is a part of who I am, because no matter what happens in the real world, I can still control what happens in the water. When it comes down to it, it isn't about beating that girl who thinks she's better than you. It isn't about what place you got, or where you stand on the podium. When it comes down to it, it is between you and the pool. It's about beating your time so you can feel good that you have improved. That all your hard work paid off, the long practices, the sets you "tried" on. Carrying the thought that you can do anything you want no matter how terrible you think you seem to the others beside you. Because in the end, you are not going to remember what place you got or who you beat, you are going to remember what you did well and improved on. If you are doing something for the wrong reasons then what is the point? It isn't what other people are going to think they don't matter.What they say about you behind your back, when they try and make you think less of yourself so they can feel superior for one second. What matters is how you think of yourself, self confidence. I swim for the joy of doing something that I love, to honor my Grandma, to prove that I don't live in anyone's shadow. I swim because I want to wake up and look forward to every moment I get to spend in the chilling water, feeling the platform beneath your feet. And no matter what people think of me, I am no longer controlled by the words of others. And I may or may not beat them, but I refuse to join them; I will lift my head and Just Keep Swimming, because actions speak louder than words.

A Simple Thanks!

I find it amazing that not just people from my state, not just from my country, have read at least one of my posts. So shout out to all of you who are not from the USA! When I first started this blog I thought, 'Only about one person will read this', it is crazy to think I have people reading this, some who I don't even know. I appreciate everyone who takes time out of their busy schedule to read about different rants I do. So thank you to everyone who has, is, and will ever read any of my posts, it means a lot to me. And I will be doing a lot of new typings soon, I've just been super busy with swim, vacation, and figuring out some stuff in my life. I love you all so much, and can't wait to see what happens with this blog.

Goodbye Clover

A dog is like a best friend, you tell them everything, they comfort you, they don't even get mad if you talk to much. Some things in life are irreplaceable. Sure you can get a new pet, but it isn't the same. A pet is a lifelong friend, you grow up with it, you share secrets you never told anyone, memories only between the two of you. When a pet dies there is a hole in your life, a void unfillable by any other being. My dog Clover was no different, she was my best friend. I've known her my whole life and when you lose something like that it's the hardest thing you could ever encounter. When I was sad she would get up on my bed next to me and help me through it. This time, there will be no dog walking through my door to trick me into petting her. My parents took her to the vet this morning, and there she was put down. Watson, my other dog is as sad as I am over the loss of his buddy, but we will get through. Clover, you will be dearly missed, forever gone, but forever in my heart. I love you ole girl, Rest In Peace

Presidential Election

There has been a lot of debate on the upcoming Presidential Election in the United States and I'm here to express my opinions. Now this is not meant to offend any supporters or candidates, so take my opinions with a grain of salt. I am not old enough to vote, but this is still the nation I live in and who sits in the white house in turn effects me. A lot of people want to vote for Hilary Clinton and that is up to you but look at why you are voting for her. Is it because she is female? That is probably why most will, but what does that say? You are trying for equality, but how is that treating us equal? You are voting for her just because of her gender but in an equal society you should vote for someone by morals. Not because they are different, we are all different. There is no two people exactly the same, so why is there this big deal about what color your skin is? No matter what you believe, you are still a unique and wonderfully made. Clinton has done some shady things, and covered it up. If she wins presidency and does stupid things, no one will ever want a girl president again. Is that what you want? For people to judge the female population based on someone who can or cannot be trusted? I feel like we should wait for the RIGHT female candidate and not vote for someone because she's the first one to be nominated. And don't vote for someone just because it's who everyone else is for. Look at what you want. When it comes down to it's just you and the ballot, not your neighbor, not the old president, not anyone else. In my case I hope you make the right decision because the fate of our next four years, the young, the old, the college students, the workers, everyone is effected. I vote libertarian, it is the only political party that hasn't changed us yet, for good or bad.

God is so much greater than us. Sometimes it's hard to comprehend what the Lord has done for us. He sent his son, not because he had to, he did it because he wanted to give us forgiveness. We were cursed, because sin overwhelmed us and ran our lives. He made us to be good, and even when we faltered the first thing he asked us was, 'Why are you hiding?' He knew the answer but he asked us anyways. Changes don't happen spontaneously, we have to want to change. We need to put him first in our lives, and that is hard. We rely on things that shouldn't be as important but we make them. He made us from the dirt, so that we could have a seed planted in us. His love is endless, even though we fall short so many times. He loves us too much, for us to go to hell, he wants the best for us. When you give everything to him, you are not just done. All relationships need work, they need time, and most of all, they need us fully committed. We are all part of his master plan, most importantly he wants and needs us.God has so much more for our lives than what we think. We should be thankful because there is a God who is so passionately in love with us that he sent his son, who was part of God to die and suffer for us. He wanted us to have an intimate relationship with us but we were cursed by all the sin and evil in the world. Rejoice my friends because he died for you, me, the person next door! Hell cannot stop us from being close to God. He wants to walk with you, he is sitting at the table pulling out the chair next to him. Jesus was cursed so we could be blessed.

I Forgive You

I forgive you. You know who you are. The one who put me through pain, agony, misery. I’m tired of having hatred in my heart towards you. I’m letting go of all the crap you put inside my head about me. I’m not who you say I am, words define me, but not yours anymore. Thank you, you made me realize that not everyone in the world is happy with who I or anybody else is. Thank you, although the challenges I went through because of everything happening were tough, thank you. The struggles have only made me a stronger person. You may be bitter because I’ve grown so much bolder, but it is all thanks to you. Hopefully, someday you realize that your actions and words have a lasting Impact. That maybe one day you’ll find out how distasteful you have been to some people who have only tried to be nice. Sure, you may act like you like me now, but I can see the hatred in your eyes. I’m not going to try and be your best friend, but if you ever want to mend the bridge, you are still forgiven. I’ve done all I can, trying to act like it didn’t tear me apart. Just know that I am not forgiving you because I have to, I want to because my soul needs to be free from this dislike. And I don’t want you to feel bad, this isn’t about that. You are forgiven, and although I will never forget, I hope God has mercy on you. Because everyone, even you deserve a second or third chance.

This entry has been on my heart for years. I’ve been inspired to share it because some out there need to hear this. If you let hatred dwell on your heart it will destroy you and that is just what the devil wants. And to all those out there who have wronged someone, apologize, even if they don’t accept your sincere sorry, you’ve done all you can do. But be cautious about your words and actions, because what you do, you can’t take back. It may be the end of something and you will probably be full of regret. Nobody deserves to have their heart broken, nobody deserves to be bullied. So Stop it and speak out about it. Because the only way it will stop is if it starts with you. One person could not say one sentence, and the one sentence unspoken would save misery, pain, agony, all the things no one deserves to go through. 

My Escape

Everyone has an escape, something they can go to that helps relieve tension and stress. As I am only human, pressure gets to me, however the pressure put on me isn’t from a coach, a parent, someone close to me, pressure is put on me from my own self. People have hobbies, jobs, different quirks that help them wind down, or in my case sports. Even the best things in life have drawbacks.

For me lately my escape has just been another locked room. They have started to make me hate what I love. Instead of being excited I don’t want to be there. This is the reason I started this blog a few months ago. For every open door, there is always a window to peek out of.  It is a route that goes far deeper into letting everything out. A breath of fresh air to breath. The sun to wash all the darkness away.

I have had a lot of struggles lately with trying to figure out who I am as a person, a load of change happening, and figuring out who my true friends are. Being a person like me in a society like ours is challenging. I’m not the popular one who everyone likes, far from. It’s hard to know what people really think about you and what they say about you behind your backs. But know that your words have a lasting effect on people, they can build you up or tear you down. Some stuff has happened to me a time ago with a bully, who was relentless, I’m not going to say who for I don’t want them to get hated for what they did to me. I’d be lying if I said that I was okay at the time, it destroyed part of me . I’ll never get that part of me back.

I was tempted to not post this, because I don’t want people to feel sorry for me. Just the opposite I want to help the people who have been in similar situations. Sure there are people out there who are jerks I know that better than most! What I am trying to say is that there are still good people out there, good choices can outway the bad. We all have something in our lives we love, keep doing it! Because if it weren’t for my escapes, I wouldn’t be the person I am today.

Update

First off I am apologizing to the two people that read this, for not posting lately. However, I am working on a bunch of short stories and stuff so it is going to take awhile to get those out. Also I am super swamped with exams coming up so there is that too. So don’t be considered if I don’t post for a while but I will plan to type and post a lot this summer! This is just an update and a thanks to everyone who reads this!

Stairway to Heaven

We have problems using the old way of living Hope is creative and playful the power of expectations efficiently and puts hope the new program ran this is not what I expected when you reach your expectations your achievements are not what you expected we need Visions not accept connections visions of a better dream or World expectations hardened that dream and are specified Force things to happen equals disappointment it isn't what I thought it would be don't live your life through expectations I am with you I want you I will not leave you until my promises fulfilled hope someone else is acting in we get to play along God is in this place in the old way of living we are anxious and focus on somewhere else we right now God wants us to  live right now God Is In This Moment Stairway to Heaven this is the place where the will of God is breaking through that place is here the kingdom of God is at hand seek first God's kingdom here!

You have came to Save

faith water you turned into wine the lame began to walk Feeding the 5000 Open the Eyes of the blind raising the dead they were resistant wanted to keep it silent there were some who believed but didn't tell they loved the Praises of people more than God crisis in faith entrust yourself In Jesus Glory turned to worry trust God in your future your relationship plans for your family Faith exploded your faith has saved you what do we do when word overpowers? what God is it you don't believe in?

If you have seen me you have seen God

he is full of light and love

full of more than ever known

water turned into wine

thousands are fed at a Time

faces made strong in the Father's Love

The Grace you gave to me

I am unworthy to wash your feet

Even though we resist

you wait for us

arms open wide

watching over us like the ocean tide

love is for us not against

you have came to save

not to judge

we are given faith

and now our spirit is restored

Defined

Causes to know and follow your ways teach us your truth you are in four different life you're in for a different world is there hope for us in confusing times pray for guidance help is on the way the faithfulness in all situations Generations later there will be a ruler by Justice when David pleaded for guidance Jesus said I am on the way in uncertain times always look to Jesus look to Jesus with your eyes for the arrival of Jesus the way has been provided and given to us in the presence of Jesus who was a friend of sinners We are gathered it's people who learned from him we know how to respond with reason we don't have to respond the way you wear your old lead us in your ways to dress Your Truth pray for your enemies walk in his way forgive your debtors forgive others as he forgave you we refuse to be defined by hatred you are the way not defined by circumstances defined by love and power of God free to respond by the way that is right Define by he who invited us to dinner

Spiritual Walk

Moving from the old to the new is challenging we need to replace efficiency with love God what are you doing the world needs people and then you voice all of the old have been looking for a shortcut a quick fix we free efficiency two places that first need love bear witness to the work of God but we need is patience and love we live where we let your soul commune with God think emotional problems ought to be fixed in a hurry everywhere people are addicted to pain medicine our spirituality we are attracted to Healing right now unfolds over Decades of time though God is up to reconciliation God is always operating by love even if it is unseen or slow We covered the vision of the cross which is bad because we see God most at the cross At the speed of love not to be confused with the speed the speed of time we need to focus on the center of the love God through Jesus Christ God may even take decades how to walk day by day by day with Christ through this we will be a different person this is a journey to God through constant creation or the devotion to God

Created by God

We saw what we own because we are living in the past we are running a way that is beat down and old God is everywhere but not visible you made us ruler of work move your hand around us with Glory and Honor what is it that we value as humans we value the stories of the privileged but not those in God's image not be treating with the values given to us Society sons of mixed signals of if we are value you don't have to do what Society tells you to Jesus Takes the outcasts the broken disregarded fellowship with Sinners to whom his culture disregarded in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself to his money as received him he gave the right to become children of God reclaim the Dignity of God our creator of all is by the moment of creation power of language confessional we are created in God's image I've been redeemed representing God's interest notice the people we see eye-to-eye ears to hear never met a person that doesn't have the image of God because we are all created by God

Community

Community abundance in the middle of the desert Untouchables cannot be touched by the highest people we need to talk to X words when read Care community life we need to turn to them we come together gifts of entertainment Grace has been given to Christ proportion Victory Ascend the throne king would give gifts he has won the victory by love over all things that have then how old is bondage gifts to everyone for the sake of the whole Grace has been given even to the bottom for the good to the glory of God many don't know they are gifted we believe and consumerism when the Holy Spirit gets hold of us the connection matters uncommonly situated in our church engaging everyone as they are gifted over a long time people realize they are gifted courage to connect to come together put aside false humility love must be present and this calls for an abundance of community

Called to Love

Call to love love one another as I have loved you people come together to get to community Harder Than You Think Everyone likes common don't experience love until you have differences emptiness mg of salt to change everyone come together in the direction of Love focus on the possibility of coming together in the name of Jesus love abound in knowledge and depth of insight love requires discriminant Love just needs to listen understand what it's like to walk along with each other you're heading in the right direction all of you sharing God's grace we've been forgiven empowered in the grace of God in the right direction discern what is best filled with the fruit of righteousness to the day of Christ Jesus will come again and finish what he started second coming of Jesus Jesus will destroy every enemy of love Advent is preparing to celebrate the birth of Jesus looking forward to the second Advent of Jesus history is being moved toward its completion Love Will Rule all if we go in the right direction

Stop Comparing

The ministry of Jesus is for everyone Jesus is filled with the Holy Spirit has come to stay the heavens are opened we have seen that of Jesus but not of ourselves normal so appreciation we tried to just by ourselves by comparing Jesus address in the highest most intimacy the three Parables what is different?  the current was torn in the crucifixion we are learning what is being restored on ashamed and unafraid restored child God says the same thing over us reclaim the center where the doors of our hearts are open safe to give ourselves over to him be true to who you are let go of Grace undo voice speaking over the love Bubbles even towards our enemies surrender to the voice of God

By example

John prepares the way for the Lord direct to the people God in Israel baptize you with Holy Spirit fire that we will stand strong in the bar the wrath of God is Not characterized of him is my power or give blessings to others what is good news it's good news for people who know and want to change the echo I don't want to live in the horrible mess of the world change starts with me leading by example I don't want to be that person any longer the message of repentance for forgiveness I'm part of the problem part of the solution the coming of Jesus change is necessary Jesus makes change possible that the direction walking and turning around and walks differently Knowing Jesus has the effect of change gold refined by fire needs spirit change is necessary change is possible I want to leave by example to be part of the change in the world the community of Jesus School of transformation stop, to turn around and go a different direction

God with us

His glory Towers over us for the grace of God has appeared in the world see a manual with us what is going to be better secret of life: Riches of Christ are for you Christ lives in you trust and He wants to share himself with us it is possible to experience God's presence today who gave himself for us to redeem us purify for himself up people of his own to burn with 0 for what is good he gave us  the gifts to clean us and free us placing us with people Gathering anywhere and everywhere leave true humility to all men we were foolish but when the kindness and love of God appeared he saved us because of his mercy and not by the righteous things we've done when love shows in our lives changed his glory remains Chrysler's and not having the hope of eternal life  God pours into us but he won't Force us to accept it we are brought back and forgive increase a new life not only washed  made new Holy Spirit Purify Me and give me a passion for what is good Joy is automatic or he has come Love Is Free given completely purifying power changing more into the image of who Jesus wants us to be look out for evil and self-control salvation- being saved from to being saved God wants to get Heaven into us Jesus laid his life down so God could lift it up when the kindness and love of God to appear power New Direction a mindset saying no or saying yes God's power is waiting like Jesus to return When change needs to happen create to be holy like God and righteous Jesus wash me in remove me as he promised God loves us for free he also wants to make us better the greatest barrier is to believe and put all trust in him am I looking more like rice all over the world? Do you want to follow Jesus and be more like him?

No One Beside Thee

There is none beside thee, Oh Lord

No One Like You on this Earth

there is none beside you

we give you praise no one's ever known

we fall on our knees in worship

you deserve all I am

your blood poured out

your love forever shed

i'm Unworthy of salvation

Unworthy of your grace

yeah you call me your child

you let me see your face

there is  none beside thee, Oh Lord

No One Like You on this Earth

there is none beside you

we give you praise no one's ever known

you are Jesus, Messiah, beginning and the end

we are your children

called to you again

you are the saving one, all powerful

nothing can be done without you

you give us peace

there's  none beside thee, Oh Lord

No One Like You on this Earth

there is none beside you

we give you praise no one's ever known

all who are weary

all are broken bones

you welcome us to heaven

to be with you again

Rising on wings like eagles

The smell renewal in the air

your spirit  surrounds us

It fills this place

Your people bow down

ashamed of what we've done

but you lift us up

you shower us with your love

you call us in your mercy

We fall on our knees and worship

we give you praise no one's ever known

Diagnosis

She didn’t know that he was going to take a turn for the worse. All people were suppose to get better, weren’t they? He was her friend, the one who looked out for her when she needed it most. Now here he was, in a hospital bed waiting for God to either give him more life or call him back to him. She hoped he would grant him more time on this earth. He was as young as her, just getting out of college and starting to make it somewhere in the world.
He was going to be a doctor, helping those who couldn’t help themselves. He should be saving lives, yet here he was, losing his. Is this really what his plan was for Liam? Why after all God had done in our lives had he decided to give Liam this disease? It infested his body like a weed taking over a flower bed. We had looked out for each other years, doing a bunch of things like bible studies together. He was as healthy as an ox, he had never had a serious life threatening illness, until now. Everything was starting to look better, the medicine was working!
Then the doctors came in and said, “You have a rare form of brain cancer.”
That was it, there was no warning signs, he was doing just fine! It started in the central nervous system they said and that they were going to try chemotherapy, to see if he will react to it. However the side effects outnumbered the good, if the good didn’t get better. His parents were with us in the hospital room, never leaving his side. He looked so weak in that hospital room, laying there, unresponsive.
The day he was diagnosed with cancer was a day I will remember forever. Not because of what would later happen by his condition. No, I remember that day so well, because that was the day Liam Quinn Collins proposed to me.
After the doctors came and delivered the news he dismissed all of his family members and friends except me. He then told me to come to him and spoke with a kind of sadness in his voice, “I may not live a long life, but the rest of my life I want to be happy. I was waiting for the right moment, but I guess this is as good as any. I know I’m not down on one knee but will you Tracy Rahnay Stern, become Mrs. Collins?”
I was absolutely speechless. Of course I had imagined him proposing before, but I figured the circumstances would be different. All I did was give a nod, with tears in my eyes, my heart light but heavy. I got down by his bed and he swept me into a teddy bear hug.
“It’s in God’s hands, Tracy, nothing you do or worry about will change that fact.” He whispered into my ear, and in that moment, I realized something. No matter how long he would be in this hospital, no matter how long it would take, she would be with him. Even if it meant taking time off her job as a lawyer to make sure he was comfortable. They were fortunate to be wealthy, enough for the expenses of the hospital bills, they were unending.
When we were done talking and being all emotional we called everyone back into the room. That’s the time we shared the good news, we were engaged! I was still in shock that I didn’t have a clue what went on in the next couple of minutes, everything a blur. My eyes were swelled up with tears forming, were they happy? Were they sad? All I knew was that I had a fiance, and he was here in the hospital, for no explanation at all as to how he ended up with brain cancer.
Liam, Liam, his name replayed in my mind over and over again, never wanting or knowing if I would be able to let go of him. Cancer can’t win! That’s not suppose to happen! What does that say about our lives, that in a short period of time they can just be swept away from us? Why is fate so cruel to those who start having a good life? A wise person once told me that you cannot be given a challenge unless you know you can handle it. If that is the case, I feel like I may crash and burn, not spread my wings and fly.
After that things started getting worse. Liam was not responding to the therapy like the doctors assumed he would. I didn’t know what to think, so many things were running through my head it felt like it was on fire. Everyday I stayed by his side. The firm I work for told me to take all the time I need to be their for my love. Liam didn’t know if he could keep fighting, he said that he was fighting a losing battle. A couple days later, he called his local pastor to come and perform a small wedding ceremony, marrying me to him. That day was the happiest, and saddest day in my life. The day I lost and won a battle. My name is Tracy Rahnay Collins and I am a widow. The feeling inside you of deep lost is overcoming, I hope none of you have to feel it. When things don’t happen the way you want, your life may feel like it’s shattering right before your very eyes. I have seen this tear people apart, being restrained by chains that bond you, but you just have to let go. Don’t let it destroy and consume you, it turns your heart bitter and your soul becomes empty. Sure I feel the loss everyday, when I look at my ring, when I look at the face of everything my life could have been. But I am stronger, by the challenges.

Diversity

I was born like this, yes I've always been different.  That still doesn't make it right for kids to pick on me.  Sure, you think you have a hard trying to get by in school without  getting a really really bad grade, but put yourself in my shoes. My mother try so hard for us to make it on her paycheck.  I can't speak to anyone because everytime I try no one understands what I say. So I got put in a bunch of helping classes and I felt alone. How do you think this makes me feel? School goes by normally every day, but the teachers don't understand me.  I know but they are kind and patient with me, but they don't know why I do the things I do.  My father, well let's just say he tries to help but it's hard for him to be around his son who is not normal. So, even though he is away from me and my mom, I can still feel him home with me.That  is one of the reasons why sometimes when I'm feeling particularly away from the world, I do the one thing I remember my dad teaching me before he left. I pray, I pray for the people with the sad faces in the hallways, I pray for the people who give me weird looks because they feel like they don’t fit in like me. People would benefit from seeing things from a different perspective. Like the girl sulking in the hallway, maybe she is going through something at home. Maybe she doesn’t go home for fear of what would happen. Through my eyes I see things that other people don’t. Through my eyes we are all the same, no matter what we are going through, whether we have a smile on our face or a frown. And when I look up and see my father in heaven, I smile. Knowing that God made me different, so that I can be an example of unconditional love no matter the circumstances.

Future to destroy

I am from the future, I have seen what happened to our society and I have come to warn you all. You may not believe me, but I trust you know that your culture revolves around technology. Or it did, up until the point where technology took over. Robots are very intelligent, one company took it too far. I work for the government, I am the one who tries to figure out what to do in worst case scenario when robots out smart us. Well the government must have had a hunch, because they were right whether they knew it at the time or not. The year was 3054, and life with technology was a must. Everybody relied on their devices for everything. We were all not worried and didn't care that our world was a mess. Pollution wasn't an issue..do to the fact that our bodies had became so use to it. There are practically no trees, or animals of any sort, the smart ones went to live away from us, we are the monsters from the future. Worse than the zombie apocalypse which was no big deal! We had to shut down all devices in order to control the raging robots, and because of people's reliance on tech, it didn't go over so well. So, this is a wake up call, don't be reliant on your orange products or whatever fruit is popular in your time. That is the worst part of our world in the future, kids don't eat meals with their parents. Now I know it may not seem like a big deal to you, but family is everything. Not talking to your siblings makes you feel like taking on the world alone, not communicating with your parents causes trust issues, all around it is not pretty. You may not think it is a big deal now, your counting down the days until you are out of the house. But don't say you weren't warned. When you are socially broken, married to a robot, and wondering whatever happened to your childhood friend, be like oh the person from the future was right! No duh!!! So, change the world of 3054! Don't make generations of people after you get so reliant on devices that they don't know what the definition of a family meal is. Once it is gone, it is gone. Put down whatever you are holding onto whether it be a phone, a television remote, or a video game controller. Stop being the anti-social lives of the future, and make the past-your present- count for the better of mankind. The human race and all of the (in 3054 extinct) animal species depend on your decision to say no to whatever it is that is controlling your life and the lives of those around you. Even dogs who are supposed to be man's best friend don't want anything to do with us! If that isn't a sign I don't know what is!

*disclaimer- this is not really a person from the future, but the way this society is going, we will be lucky if we don't end up with a robot apocalypse. We need to make a change and it starts with you! Don't take things for granted, spend as much time with others as possible. Once it is gone...it is gone.*

To be a friend

 When the world falls apart I will be there with you. When all your friends turn away I will turn towards. When failure knocks you down I will lift you up. You can trust in me, I will always be there for you. Even if I can't be with you physically I will be there. I will be the one to make you laugh and smile when all you want to do is cry. Don't worry about the things you can't control. That's what friends are for. We are here to fight the battles you can't, to give you hugs, to help you with all your doubts and questions. Know that I am there for you and will always be there no matter where life may take us. Whether we are next door or a thousand miles apart we will be together. When you miss me look inside, I will be there. For we are apart of each other because that is what being a friend means. Thanks, for helping me grow, and I hope to always be there for you. Thank you for showing me...what it means to be a friend.

Why is there Evil?

There are things in History that you try not to remember. Times where humanity is lost and we see how cruel this world can be. We try to admit to ourselves that it didn't happen. That Jews weren't killed in the holocaust, 9-11 is just another day, and that there aren't people getting prosecuted everyday for the choices they choose. People go through life feeling like they can't say how they feel, afraid to go to sleep at night, wondering when their next meal is. Many people doubt God's existence, saying, "If God did exist why is there still homeless, starving, devastation all around?" The reason is simple, free will. God gave Adam and Eve the choice of who they were going to obey. God doesn't want to force people to love him, he wants us to go to him of our own free choice. That is why the holocaust happened, because it was Hitler's choice to kill Jews. The good news is that God is giving back all the innocent lives that were lost in these cruel times. He wants all who choose him to be rewarded, no matter the cost. That is why he sent his son, to forgive those who trespass and give those who accept Jesus to come to him. Come to him all who are weary, all who have lost hope. God is not a wrathful God as some people. He sometimes acts in wrath, to destroy all that could destroy us. That is not how he wants it to be. He is a loving God who wants us to rely on him when things get tough. To believe in him even when humanity is at its worst, trying to break us and make us lose faith. We must stand firm as part of the army of God, helping those who prosecute us, laugh at us. They try and make us avert our eyes from God, but if we do won't we sink? He is the only one who can bring us deep satisfaction, sure we have things that make us happy, but nothing lasts forever. Except one thing...the love the Lord has shown and continues to show to people far and wide, to all who look to the Cross! We only need to open our hearts and allow the holy spirit to live in us. And that is the best news of all...God wants all of us, he doesn't call the qualified, he makes us qualified when he sent his son. He chose to give us free will, he chose to sacrifice for you and me, he chose you when he died. We are all chosen and you don't need to do anything but accept it and look to him! 

Nature

Beauty is all around us

You can hear it through the wind

To thank God is a must

We must not worry 

We have got to trust

That he will always be there

He created us from the dust

Look at the leaves

Look at the trees

What do you see

Can you feel the breeze

Can you feel the wind touch your face

Like a warming embrace

Can you see the sun

Warming you up

Making outside fun

The rays shooting down

Like you could run

For hours before wanting to be done

The snow, the rain, 

The hot, the cold

The stories untold

But throughout we to be bold

Stand up even when it gets old

Our minds are special

Our minds are gold

Even we sometimes are being stressful

We need to be like the moon and the stars

And try to be who we are

Stand out 

Be apart

Begin the start

To Something more

Be a leader 

Be smart

Be a shooting star

First Day

It’s the morning of the first day

Going to school just to blend in

Wishing for it all to be over

The day arrives that you realize

Being wanted

Needing to be popular

Hiding your true abilities

You could be an amazing scholar

Take a deep breath

One step towards the future

One step towards the end

You're counting down the days

Rehearsing the lines you're going to say

If someone asks you a question

Before class even goes into session

You are just hoping no one notices

Anything that can be used to cause torment

Your imperfections

Your flaws

No one told you about your classmates

Nobody warned you about what was in store

They never told you it was gonna be so cruel

Always people trying to win the score

Beating you in everything imaginable

Will it ever get better?

Band-aids don’t fix inner wounds

You have the guilt of lies and cheats forever

You want to hurt the people who hurt you

But that won’t do you any good

Better to let them be who they choose

You can try to be as nice as possible

They may not change though

Is this what prison looks like?

Because I’m tired of it

A Helping Hand

We need to stand tall and not rely on someone else to fight our battles. Being alone in the world is not what I am saying. Sure, we need people to have our backs, helping us to stop from strangling certain people who we can't handle. Friends, Family, people who care about us and won't try to do something to hurt us in any way, shape, or form. They may protect us, when we are crippled, weak beyond our normal capabilities. This is different than being dependent on a person. We are only human, after all and we do make mistakes. Wherever we go, there are people who make us smile, laugh, relax, and enjoy one's presence. Together, we can do so much more than an individual. However, alone we can get more done depending on the individual, but trust builds us up. So thank you, to everyone who has done something to help me even in the smallest way. We could be heroes.

Dancing In the Rain

We sing songs in church about how great God is and his love being unconditional. But sometimes even I wonder if he really is there. How is it possible to be there yet not be seen by the entire world? Then again, I see a rainbow, even if it is there, it may not always be seen by everyone. If you are in your house when the sun is out, it’s still there and you know that because someone told you. We were told that there is really a God who really does love us. He loves the sinners, the tax collectors, the imperfect, everyone. He sacrificed his own son as a way to show us he is always there. He wants us to have a life in heaven, for all those who never stopped believing even when it was hard to see him. His son didn't deserve to die just like how we don't deserve to live without the sin. That is the great thing about the Lord's mercy, it rains down on those who aren't prepared. Whether we have our raincoat on or not, we were given the blessing of renewal. So let us dance in the rain. Dance because, sure our lives are as crazy as ever, but we are not alone. We can see his footprints right next to us, rejoicing because the lost sheep was found and brought back. Showering us with gifts, even though until his death we denied we knew him. Even when we were the one on the cross next to Jesus, common criminals, but he called us his own. God did not call us because we were rich, qualified, famous, he called us because he loves us even if we are unqualified to be called his children. Amazing grace, so sweet, I was a lost sheep, but then you found me, and now I have been redeemed!