Susan - s3js

9 Jan 2018 Advice To Self Challenge

9 Jan 2018 Advice To Self Challenge
Susan - s3js, Jan 28, 2018
Description:
9 Jan 2018 Advice to Self Challenge

Background (2 papers blended - Amy Wolff – Solids Mega Pack Vol 5
https://the-lilypad.com/store/Solids-Mega-Pack-Vol.5.html
Frames and metal button in border – Sara Gleason – Olive Tree
https://the-lilypad.com/store/Olive-Tree-by-Sara-Gleason.html
Gem sprays, weeds (2 types) – Dawn Inskip – Grace
https://the-lilypad.com/store/Grace-Kit.html
Dark green foliage -Kristin Aagard – Makers Gonna Make
https://the-lilypad.com/store/COLLAB-Makers-Gonna-Make.html
Rosemary foliage, yellow, blue, and small white flowers – Etc by Danyale – Slightly Worn
https://the-lilypad.com/store/Chapter-2-Slightly-Worn.html
Large white flower – Etc by Danyale Chapter 3 Being Me
https://the-lilypad.com/store/Chapter-3-Being-Me.html
Yellow butterfly – Etc by Danyale – Chalk It Up
https://the-lilypad.com/store/Chapter-1-Chalk-it-Up.html
Red flower – Etc by Danyale – Magical Beginnings
https://the-lilypad.com/store/Magical-Beginnings-Mini.html
Red flower spray, brown butterfly, and grass – Etc by Danyale – Lifetime Stories
https://the-lilypad.com/store/Lifetime-Stories-Kit.html
Font – John Lennon, Appendix 3

Journaling reads:

Over the years I’ve wished I knew back then what I know now and pondered how different the outcome might have been. It’s not that I want to be a kid again. I don’t. Growing up is too hard. But growing old is, too. A lot is behind me, but I’m not sure the hardest part isn’t yet to come. These past eleven years have taught me a lot that I need to record now, so I will remember it when the times comes that I need those lessons.

Never forget where you’ve been. You can always change where you’re going, but when you forget where you’ve come from, you lose your humility – and sometimes your humanity. You can easily lose your soul if you are untethered from your past.

God never confronts you with challenges then walks away, leaving you to find your own way. He ALWAYS knows where you’re headed, He just doesn’t always give you a map. When he asked me to be Hosea, I told Him I didn’t want to repeat the prophet’s life. I tried to walk away from the request. But I couldn’t. I got lost a lot, but He was right there to take me by the hand when I would allow it. People thought Hosea was a fool, but God takes care of fools and crazy people in his service.

It’s all right to be skeptical about things, but you must find the courage and wisdom to admit when that skepticism is wrong. For years I believed PTSD was an excuse to misbehave – until it came to live in our home. This unwelcome houseguest stayed much to long. Although we have kicked him out many times, he finds a way to come back and torment us. Fortunately, the distance between his visits has lengthened and the duration shortened. That would not have happened without steadfast love and without the stronger love of the Lord who called upon his unwilling daughter to walk in Hosea’s footsteps. But love has overcome the worst and held our family together, made us strong, and taught our sons that you don’t abandon people because they are sick or broken inside. You simply don’t throw people away – you nurse them back to health and support them until they can stand alone again.

And sometimes, you create a new reality. The man John was is not who he is now. We only get glimpses of his former self. The new man is different, often difficult, and requires more emotional capital than I sometimes think I have. The future will see that intensify. You must cherish the wonderful times you had before but keep them in perspective. You must either join in his new reality or find yourself and your family shattered. Remember those challenges God has placed before you – He created you emotionally strong, patient, and adaptable for a reason. Draw on those strengths. They will stand you in good stead. If the time comes that John no longer remembers your name and calls you by another, embrace this new perspective and let him love you for who he thinks you are and simply love him back. You know who he is and how he loves you and his sons. Do not let a faulty memory rob you of joy. And you never know, you just might like a new name!

Most of all, remember who YOU are. If you lose track of that, then you cannot be John’s anchor or helpmate. You must take care of yourself and keep your body and mind in good order. It’s easy to fall into the victim role, but don’t. You almost made that mistake when PTSD came to live with you. Fight it with all your strength and if that fails, let the Lord fight it for you. He will, you know that. Be yourself and give of yourself freely. Be the candle in the window that guides the weary traveler to safety. Susan Elaine are the names God put in your parents’ hearts for you. Susan means both intelligent and lily and Elaine means both lily and light. He bestows names that define our character. Rise to yours. Shine brilliantly, gently, and benevolently. It’s who you are - and you were created for such a time as this.

Lyrics on background by Wayne Watson “For Such A Time As This”
You, Do you ever wonder why
Seems like the grass is always greener
Under everybody else's sky?
But right here, right here for this time and place
You can live a mirror of His mercy
A forgiven image of grace!
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    Month of Challenges 6
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    Susan - s3js
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