Posts
Taking ourselves less seriously
Angels can fly because they take things lightly - Anonymous
"Some events are clearly sad and not occasions for laughter. But most don’t carry an overwhelming sense of sadness or delight. Most fall into the gray zone of ordinary life, and they give us the choice to laugh or not.
One characteristic that helps us laugh is not taking ourselves too seriously. We’ve all known the classic tight-jawed sourpuss who takes everything with deathly seriousness and never laughs at anything. No fun there.
Here are some ways we can lighten up.
*View your life in context.
Even world leaders realize they have limited ability to affect others’ lives. While we might think taking the weight of the world on our shoulders is admirable, in the long run it’s unrealistic, unproductive, unhealthy and even egotistical.
*Be less serious.
Realize that while your ambitions may be noble, being overly serious about them weighs you down and lessens your chances for achieving them.
*Deal with your stress.
Stress is a major impediment to humor and laughter.
*Dress less seriously.
*Keep a toy on your desk or in your car.
*Laugh at yourself.
Share your embarrassing moments. The best way to take ourselves less seriously is talk about times when we took ourselves too seriously.
Pay attention to children and emulate them. They are the experts on playing, taking life lightly, and laughing.
Checklist for lightening up
When you find yourself taken over by what seems to be a horrible problem, ask these questions:
*Is it really worth getting upset over?
*Is it worth upsetting others?
*Is it that important?
*Is the situation irreparable?
*Is it really my problem?
*Creating opportunities to laugh
*Watch comedy DVD’s and TV shows.
*Go to comedy clubs.
*Listen to comedy while driving.
*Read comic authors.
*Seek out funny people.
*Spend less time with overly serious people.
*Bring humor into conversations. Ask people, “What’s the funniest thing that happened to you today? This week? In your life?”
Making sure your humor won’t offend
Humor can be used as a weapon to belittle others or “score points” in some fashion. Use humor with care by being mindful of the following.
Use humor at the expense of yourself or a group you are part of, rather than at someone’s else’s expense.
Don’t use humor when someone else is in so much pain that humor will not make them feel better. When someone is physically injured, suffering a serious crisis, or when you are attending a somber event, such as a funeral, humor, no matter how clever or well-intended, will not make people feel better.
Use humor that everyone present can enjoy. Inside jokes can make people feel excluded. Adult humor in the presence of children is unhealthy for the children, troublesome for their parents or guardians and thoughtless on the part of the would-be comedian."
Article was taken from helpguide.org http://helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm
Like I wrote before laughter is a priceless cure. So do yourself a favor and start laughing, you will be happier, feel better, and live longer!
The Power of Laughter (Part 2)
Humor improves mental and emotional health
"Humor is a powerful emotional medicine that can lower stress, dissolve anger and unite families in troubled times. Mood is elevated by striving to find humor in difficult and frustrating situations. Laughing at ourselves and the situation helps reveal that small things are not the earth-shaking events they sometimes seem to be. Looking at a problem from a different perspective can make it seem less formidable and provide opportunities for greater objectivity and insight. Humor also helps us avoid loneliness by connecting with others who are attracted to genuine cheerfulness. And the good feeling that we get when we laugh can remain with us as an internal experience even after the laughter subsides.
Mental health professionals point out that humor can also teach perspective by helping patients to see reality rather than the distortion that supports their distress. Humor shifts the ways in which we think, and distress is greatly associated with the way we think. It is not situations that generate our stress, it is the meaning we place on the situations. Humor adjusts the meaning of an event so that it is not so overwhelming.
Here are some additional things we can do to improve our mood, enjoyment of life and mental health.
*Attempt to laugh at situations rather than bemoan them – this helps improve our disposition and the disposition of those around us.
*Use cathartic laughter to release pent-up feelings of anger and frustration in socially acceptable ways.
*Laugh as a means of reducing tension because laughter is often followed by a state of relaxation.
*Lower anxiety by visualizing a humorous situation to replace the view of an anxiety-producing situation
Humor helps us stay emotionally healthy
A healthy sense of humor is related to being able to laugh at oneself and one's life. Laughing at oneself can be a way of accepting and respecting oneself. Lack of a sense of humor is directly related to lower self esteem. (Note that laughing at oneself can also be unhealthy if one laughs as a way of self degradation.)
Mental Health Benefits of Laughter
*Humor enhances our ability to affiliate or connect with others.
*Humor helps us replace distressing emotions with pleasurable feelings. You cannot feel angry, depressed, anxious, guilty, or resentful and experience humor at the same time.
*Lacking humor will cause one's thought processes to stagnate leading to increased distress.
*Humor changes behavior – when we experience humor we talk more, make more eye contact with others, touch others, etc.
*Humor increases energy, and with increased energy we may perform activities that we might otherwise avoid.
*Finally, humor is good for mental health because it makes us feel good!
Social benefits of humor and laughter
Our work, marriage and family all need humor, celebrations, play and ritual as much as record-keeping and problem-solving. We should ask the questions "Do we laugh together?" as well as "Can we get through this hardship together?" Humor binds us together, lightens our burdens and helps us keep things in perspective. One of the things that saps our energy is the time, focus and effort we put into coping with life's problems including each other's limitations. Our families, our friends and our neighbors are not perfect and neither are our marriages, our kids or our in-laws. When we laugh together, it can bind us closer together instead of pulling us apart.
Remember that even in the most difficult of times, a laugh, or even simply a smile, can go a long way in helping us feel better.
*Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.
*Humor unites us, especially when we laugh together.
*Laughter heals.
*Laughs and smiles are enjoyed best when shared with others.
*To laugh or not to laugh is your choice.
*Bringing more humor and laughter into our lives
*If laughter is the best medicine, where is the pharmacy where we can fill our prescriptions?
Developing our sense of humor
Laughter is a birthright, a natural part of life. The part of the brain that connects to and facilitates laughter is among the first parts of the nervous system to come on line after birth. Infants begin smiling during the first weeks of life and laugh out loud within months of being born. Even if you did not grow up in a household where laughter was a common sound, you can learn to laugh at any stage of life.
We may begin by setting aside special times to seek out humor and laughter, as we do with working out. But eventually, we want to incorporate humor and laughter into the fabric of our lives, finding it naturally in everything we do. Here are ways to start.
*Smile
Smiling is the beginning of laughter. Like laughter, it’s contagious. Pioneers in “laugh therapy,” find it’s possible to laugh without even experiencing a funny event. The same holds for smiling. When you look at someone or see something even mildly pleasing, practice smiling.
*Count your blessings.
Literally make a list. The simple act of considering the good things in your life will distance you from negative thoughts that are a barrier to humor and laughter. When in a state of sadness, we have further to travel to get to humor and laughter.
When you hear laughter, move toward it. Sometimes humor and laughter are private, a shared joke among a small group, but usually not. More often, people are very happy to share something funny because it gives them an opportunity to laugh again and feed off the humor you find in it. When you hear laughter, seek it out and ask, “What’s funny?”
*Spend time with people who have successfully incorporated humor into their lives. These are people who naturally take life lightly, who routinely find ordinary events hysterical. Their points of view and their laughter are contagious."
Article was taken from helpguide.org http://helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm
Incorporating humor into everyday life
I went to the the dialysis center in Philadelphia the other day, my mother came along. I like her to drive because going to the hospital/doctors always tires me out. Anyway I had to get blood drawn, which is not always the easiest thing with me because I have small veins. Well this time wasn't any different, but I was in a good mood. I was laughing and joking around with the nurses, while the nurse was trying to take my blood. She ended up sticking me 5 times and finally got some blood on that last stick. I was fine with it, but my mother wasn't she was pretty grumpy, she didn't like me getting stuck that many times. I told her to lighten up, they are just doing their job! I eventually cheered her up. :)
"Spending time with children is one way to enhance our playfulness, add humor to our lives and help take ourselves less seriously. Not taking ourselves so seriously is an important component in adding humor to our lives."
http://helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm
I love hanging out with my niece, Jenna. She is filled with so much energy! She just keeps going. She loves singing,music, dancing, playing, she just knows how to have a good time! I can act as silly as I want when I hang around her. After a day with her I need a nap! *laughs*
"Humor is a powerful emotional medicine that can lower stress, dissolve anger and unite families in troubled times. Mood is elevated by striving to find humor in difficult and frustrating situations. Laughing at ourselves and the situation helps reveal that small things are not the earth-shaking events they sometimes seem to be. Looking at a problem from a different perspective can make it seem less formidable and provide opportunities for greater objectivity and insight. Humor also helps us avoid loneliness by connecting with others who are attracted to genuine cheerfulness. And the good feeling that we get when we laugh can remain with us as an internal experience even after the laughter subsides.
Mental health professionals point out that humor can also teach perspective by helping patients to see reality rather than the distortion that supports their distress. Humor shifts the ways in which we think, and distress is greatly associated with the way we think. It is not situations that generate our stress, it is the meaning we place on the situations. Humor adjusts the meaning of an event so that it is not so overwhelming.
Here are some additional things we can do to improve our mood, enjoyment of life and mental health.
*Attempt to laugh at situations rather than bemoan them – this helps improve our disposition and the disposition of those around us.
*Use cathartic laughter to release pent-up feelings of anger and frustration in socially acceptable ways.
*Laugh as a means of reducing tension because laughter is often followed by a state of relaxation.
*Lower anxiety by visualizing a humorous situation to replace the view of an anxiety-producing situation
Humor helps us stay emotionally healthy
A healthy sense of humor is related to being able to laugh at oneself and one's life. Laughing at oneself can be a way of accepting and respecting oneself. Lack of a sense of humor is directly related to lower self esteem. (Note that laughing at oneself can also be unhealthy if one laughs as a way of self degradation.)
Mental Health Benefits of Laughter
*Humor enhances our ability to affiliate or connect with others.
*Humor helps us replace distressing emotions with pleasurable feelings. You cannot feel angry, depressed, anxious, guilty, or resentful and experience humor at the same time.
*Lacking humor will cause one's thought processes to stagnate leading to increased distress.
*Humor changes behavior – when we experience humor we talk more, make more eye contact with others, touch others, etc.
*Humor increases energy, and with increased energy we may perform activities that we might otherwise avoid.
*Finally, humor is good for mental health because it makes us feel good!
Social benefits of humor and laughter
Our work, marriage and family all need humor, celebrations, play and ritual as much as record-keeping and problem-solving. We should ask the questions "Do we laugh together?" as well as "Can we get through this hardship together?" Humor binds us together, lightens our burdens and helps us keep things in perspective. One of the things that saps our energy is the time, focus and effort we put into coping with life's problems including each other's limitations. Our families, our friends and our neighbors are not perfect and neither are our marriages, our kids or our in-laws. When we laugh together, it can bind us closer together instead of pulling us apart.
Remember that even in the most difficult of times, a laugh, or even simply a smile, can go a long way in helping us feel better.
*Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.
*Humor unites us, especially when we laugh together.
*Laughter heals.
*Laughs and smiles are enjoyed best when shared with others.
*To laugh or not to laugh is your choice.
*Bringing more humor and laughter into our lives
*If laughter is the best medicine, where is the pharmacy where we can fill our prescriptions?
Developing our sense of humor
Laughter is a birthright, a natural part of life. The part of the brain that connects to and facilitates laughter is among the first parts of the nervous system to come on line after birth. Infants begin smiling during the first weeks of life and laugh out loud within months of being born. Even if you did not grow up in a household where laughter was a common sound, you can learn to laugh at any stage of life.
We may begin by setting aside special times to seek out humor and laughter, as we do with working out. But eventually, we want to incorporate humor and laughter into the fabric of our lives, finding it naturally in everything we do. Here are ways to start.
*Smile
Smiling is the beginning of laughter. Like laughter, it’s contagious. Pioneers in “laugh therapy,” find it’s possible to laugh without even experiencing a funny event. The same holds for smiling. When you look at someone or see something even mildly pleasing, practice smiling.
*Count your blessings.
Literally make a list. The simple act of considering the good things in your life will distance you from negative thoughts that are a barrier to humor and laughter. When in a state of sadness, we have further to travel to get to humor and laughter.
When you hear laughter, move toward it. Sometimes humor and laughter are private, a shared joke among a small group, but usually not. More often, people are very happy to share something funny because it gives them an opportunity to laugh again and feed off the humor you find in it. When you hear laughter, seek it out and ask, “What’s funny?”
*Spend time with people who have successfully incorporated humor into their lives. These are people who naturally take life lightly, who routinely find ordinary events hysterical. Their points of view and their laughter are contagious."
Article was taken from helpguide.org http://helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm
Incorporating humor into everyday life
I went to the the dialysis center in Philadelphia the other day, my mother came along. I like her to drive because going to the hospital/doctors always tires me out. Anyway I had to get blood drawn, which is not always the easiest thing with me because I have small veins. Well this time wasn't any different, but I was in a good mood. I was laughing and joking around with the nurses, while the nurse was trying to take my blood. She ended up sticking me 5 times and finally got some blood on that last stick. I was fine with it, but my mother wasn't she was pretty grumpy, she didn't like me getting stuck that many times. I told her to lighten up, they are just doing their job! I eventually cheered her up. :)
"Spending time with children is one way to enhance our playfulness, add humor to our lives and help take ourselves less seriously. Not taking ourselves so seriously is an important component in adding humor to our lives."
http://helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm
I love hanging out with my niece, Jenna. She is filled with so much energy! She just keeps going. She loves singing,music, dancing, playing, she just knows how to have a good time! I can act as silly as I want when I hang around her. After a day with her I need a nap! *laughs*
The Power of Laughter
"The sound of roaring laughter is far more contagious than any cough, sniffle, or sneeze. Humor and laughter can cause a domino effect of joy and amusement, as well as set off a number of positive physical effects. Humor and laughter strengthen our immune systems and help us recover from illness, as well as bring joy into our lives. The question is, how do we gain access to this priceless medicine?
Health benefits of humor and laughter
Laughter activates the chemistry of the will to live and increases our capacity to fight disease. Laughing relaxes the body and reduces problems associated with high blood pressure, strokes, arthritis, and ulcers. Some research suggests that laughter may also reduce the risk of heart disease. Historically, research has shown that distressing emotions (depression, anger, anxiety, and stress) are all related to heart disease. A study done at the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that a good sense of humor and the ability to laugh at stressful situations helps mitigate the damaging physical effects of distressing emotions.
Medicine From Henny Youngman:
"Doctor I have a ringing in my ears." "Don't answer!"
The Doctor says "You'll live to be 60!" "I AM 60!" "See, what did I tell you?"
From Steven Wright:
“If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you.”
“Smoking cures weight problems, eventually”.
“If you think nobody cares about you, try missing a couple of payments.”
A good hearty laugh can help:
• reduce stress
• lower blood pressure
• elevate mood
• boost immune system
• improve brain functioning
• protect the heart
• connect you to others
• foster instant relaxation
• make you feel good.
Laughter lowers blood pressure. People who laugh heartily on a regular basis have lower standing blood pressure than the average person. When people have a good laugh, initially the blood pressure increases, but then it decreases to levels below normal. Breathing then becomes deeper which sends oxygen enriched blood and nutrients throughout the body.
Humor changes our biochemical state. Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases infection fighting antibodies. It increases our attentiveness, heart rate, and pulse.
Laughter protects the heart. Laughter, along with an active sense of humor, may help protect you against a heart attack, according to the study at the University of Maryland Medical Center (cited above). The study, which is the first to indicate that laughter may help prevent heart disease, found that people with heart disease were 40 percent less likely to laugh in a variety of situations compared to people of the same age without heart disease.
Laughter gives our bodies a good workout. Laughter can be a great workout for your diaphragm, abdominal, respiratory, facial, leg, and back muscles. It massages abdominal organs, tones intestinal functioning, and strengthens the muscles that hold the abdominal organs in place. Not only does laughter give your midsection a workout, it can benefit digestion and absorption functioning as well. It is estimated that hearty laughter can burn calories equivalent to several minutes on the rowing machine or the exercise bike.
Humor improves brain function and relieves stress. Laughter stimulates both sides of the brain to enhance learning. It eases muscle tension and psychological stress, which keeps the brain alert and allows people to retain more information."
Article was taken from helpguide.org http://helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm
This article proves that laughter is a priceless cure. So do yourself a favor and start laughing, you will be happier, feel better, and live longer!
Ever laugh so hard it hurt you? Like your chest cavity felt like it was in a big knot? Even though your body is uncomfortable, you still feel great! I try to laugh as much as I can, I just love laughing! I think my sense of humor is what has gotten me through alot of the stuff I have been through! Sometimes you just have to laugh! Just laugh it off, laugh until you cry!
Health benefits of humor and laughter
Laughter activates the chemistry of the will to live and increases our capacity to fight disease. Laughing relaxes the body and reduces problems associated with high blood pressure, strokes, arthritis, and ulcers. Some research suggests that laughter may also reduce the risk of heart disease. Historically, research has shown that distressing emotions (depression, anger, anxiety, and stress) are all related to heart disease. A study done at the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that a good sense of humor and the ability to laugh at stressful situations helps mitigate the damaging physical effects of distressing emotions.
Medicine From Henny Youngman:
"Doctor I have a ringing in my ears." "Don't answer!"
The Doctor says "You'll live to be 60!" "I AM 60!" "See, what did I tell you?"
From Steven Wright:
“If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you.”
“Smoking cures weight problems, eventually”.
“If you think nobody cares about you, try missing a couple of payments.”
A good hearty laugh can help:
• reduce stress
• lower blood pressure
• elevate mood
• boost immune system
• improve brain functioning
• protect the heart
• connect you to others
• foster instant relaxation
• make you feel good.
Laughter lowers blood pressure. People who laugh heartily on a regular basis have lower standing blood pressure than the average person. When people have a good laugh, initially the blood pressure increases, but then it decreases to levels below normal. Breathing then becomes deeper which sends oxygen enriched blood and nutrients throughout the body.
Humor changes our biochemical state. Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases infection fighting antibodies. It increases our attentiveness, heart rate, and pulse.
Laughter protects the heart. Laughter, along with an active sense of humor, may help protect you against a heart attack, according to the study at the University of Maryland Medical Center (cited above). The study, which is the first to indicate that laughter may help prevent heart disease, found that people with heart disease were 40 percent less likely to laugh in a variety of situations compared to people of the same age without heart disease.
Laughter gives our bodies a good workout. Laughter can be a great workout for your diaphragm, abdominal, respiratory, facial, leg, and back muscles. It massages abdominal organs, tones intestinal functioning, and strengthens the muscles that hold the abdominal organs in place. Not only does laughter give your midsection a workout, it can benefit digestion and absorption functioning as well. It is estimated that hearty laughter can burn calories equivalent to several minutes on the rowing machine or the exercise bike.
Humor improves brain function and relieves stress. Laughter stimulates both sides of the brain to enhance learning. It eases muscle tension and psychological stress, which keeps the brain alert and allows people to retain more information."
Article was taken from helpguide.org http://helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm
This article proves that laughter is a priceless cure. So do yourself a favor and start laughing, you will be happier, feel better, and live longer!
Ever laugh so hard it hurt you? Like your chest cavity felt like it was in a big knot? Even though your body is uncomfortable, you still feel great! I try to laugh as much as I can, I just love laughing! I think my sense of humor is what has gotten me through alot of the stuff I have been through! Sometimes you just have to laugh! Just laugh it off, laugh until you cry!
How to Save A Life
I wanted to share this song with you guys because, it is very powerful and I have enjoyed it greatly. I tried to find a video of it but the original couldnt be shown because the Embedding was disabled by request. So I got this video instead. It's an advertisement for Grey's Anatomy, from what I have seen it seems like a good show. I try not to watch shows about hospitals, I get enough of them from my own life!
The Fray "How to Save A Life" Lyrics
Step one you say we need to talk
He walks you say sit down it's just a talk
He smiles politely back at you
You stare politely right on through
Some sort of window to your right
As he goes left and you stay right
Between the lines of fear and blame
You begin to wonder why you came
CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
Let him know that you know best
Cause after all you do know best
Try to slip past his defense
Without granting innocence
Lay down a list of what is wrong
The things you've told him all along
And pray to God he hears you
And pray to God he hears you
CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
As he begins to raise his voice
You lower yours and grant him one last choice
Drive until you lose the road
Or break with the ones you've followed
He will do one of two things
He will admit to everything
Or he'll say he's just not the same
And you'll begin to wonder why you came
CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
How to save a life
How to save a life
CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
How to save a life
[ How To Save A Life Lyrics on http://www.lyricsmania.com/ ]
The Fray "How to Save A Life" Lyrics
Step one you say we need to talk
He walks you say sit down it's just a talk
He smiles politely back at you
You stare politely right on through
Some sort of window to your right
As he goes left and you stay right
Between the lines of fear and blame
You begin to wonder why you came
CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
Let him know that you know best
Cause after all you do know best
Try to slip past his defense
Without granting innocence
Lay down a list of what is wrong
The things you've told him all along
And pray to God he hears you
And pray to God he hears you
CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
As he begins to raise his voice
You lower yours and grant him one last choice
Drive until you lose the road
Or break with the ones you've followed
He will do one of two things
He will admit to everything
Or he'll say he's just not the same
And you'll begin to wonder why you came
CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
How to save a life
How to save a life
CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
How to save a life
[ How To Save A Life Lyrics on http://www.lyricsmania.com/ ]
Million Dollar Dreams
I am so excited! This coming Tuesday at 9:00 Eastern the President and CEO of Success University, Matt Morris, will be joining my team's conference! I own one of Matt's CDs called, "7 Secrets to 7 Figures". Talk about exciting! This guy is a true leader, he is Success! Just hearing him speak gives me goose bumps. The reason he is joining my team's conference is because the team I am part of is one of the fastest growing teams in the Success University organization! How awesome is that?
Here is an overview of what Success University is all about. "There are more than 200 courses led by 70 of the top speakers, authors and trainers in the world. Courses cover topics including motivation, health and wellness, financial education, sales and marketing training, investing in real estate, time management, building quality relationships and much more." (Empower: Vol. 1 Issue 4 page 13) This information they are teaching is pretty much priceless and if you follow their advice you will have a better life! This is the main reason why I enrolled in it, to make my life better and to support myself because I can't work a real job!
Some exciting news about Success University:
*85% of all network marketing companies go out of business within the first year.
*95%of all network marketing companies go out of business within their first 2 years.
*Success University has been around for three years! They become the #1 network marketing company in the world in personal development industry!
*Success University is now in 180 different countries around the world, their mission is to make the world a better place to live amd they are well on their way!
If you are interested in joining my team, I would recommend joining the 14 day free trial! It will only cost you 2 dollars which will benefit the "feed the children" foundation and you will receive $1,949 in education with no obligation. This way you can see if you like the business and if you want to become a part of it and alteast this way you can feed some starving kids while you do it! If you truly want to join I would recommend joining before Tuesday, so I can give you the information you need to join our conference. That way you can hear Matt Morris live, this conference will be on fire! You don't want to miss it!
God Bless you guys!
Here is my contact information:
Thomas Slater
1-609-892-3738 (USA)
tslatter@comcast.net
or thomaslater@gmail
Skype: thomas.slater001
Here is an overview of what Success University is all about. "There are more than 200 courses led by 70 of the top speakers, authors and trainers in the world. Courses cover topics including motivation, health and wellness, financial education, sales and marketing training, investing in real estate, time management, building quality relationships and much more." (Empower: Vol. 1 Issue 4 page 13) This information they are teaching is pretty much priceless and if you follow their advice you will have a better life! This is the main reason why I enrolled in it, to make my life better and to support myself because I can't work a real job!
Some exciting news about Success University:
*85% of all network marketing companies go out of business within the first year.
*95%of all network marketing companies go out of business within their first 2 years.
*Success University has been around for three years! They become the #1 network marketing company in the world in personal development industry!
*Success University is now in 180 different countries around the world, their mission is to make the world a better place to live amd they are well on their way!
If you are interested in joining my team, I would recommend joining the 14 day free trial! It will only cost you 2 dollars which will benefit the "feed the children" foundation and you will receive $1,949 in education with no obligation. This way you can see if you like the business and if you want to become a part of it and alteast this way you can feed some starving kids while you do it! If you truly want to join I would recommend joining before Tuesday, so I can give you the information you need to join our conference. That way you can hear Matt Morris live, this conference will be on fire! You don't want to miss it!
God Bless you guys!
Here is my contact information:
Thomas Slater
1-609-892-3738 (USA)
tslatter@comcast.net
or thomaslater@gmail
Skype: thomas.slater001
Those Closest to God
My father told me something the other day that I thought was very interesting. He said the closest people to God are children and those that are close to death. The people in between usually have a hard time finding God.
"Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” And He laid His hands on them and departed from there." [Matthew 19:13-15 KJV]
The reason is kind of simple when you think about it. Children are close to God because they have just come from God. They are full of innocence and are filled with the Spirit which makes it easy for them to accept Christ.
"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me..." [Psalm 23:4 KJV]
Those that are close to death, such as older people who have lived their lives and are in a way satified with their lives. They usually have no problems accepting that there will be an after life that will be much more glorious than the life they have lived. Than there are people like myself, who are dealing with chronic pains and life threating diseases. It is easy for us to accept Christ and eternal life because they are dealing with a sense of hell everyday of our lives. There must be something better than this world!
That is why I am grateful for what has happened in my past. If it hadn't I may have never searched for the Lord like I have. If I was healthy my whole life, why would I have to submit to Christ Jesus? I may have felt like I don't need him, which is far from the truth! Even though those people in between are healthy and strong, this may actually be their weakness not strength. This could lead to a certain pride that makes them deaf and blind to the true word of God. They may never know what they are truely missing!
I am thankful for what I have been through because it really has given me Godly character, I wouldn't be the person I am today if I hadn't lived through what I did.
"But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold." [Job 23:10]
Picture is from http://www.christart.com/
"Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” And He laid His hands on them and departed from there." [Matthew 19:13-15 KJV]
The reason is kind of simple when you think about it. Children are close to God because they have just come from God. They are full of innocence and are filled with the Spirit which makes it easy for them to accept Christ.
"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me..." [Psalm 23:4 KJV]
Those that are close to death, such as older people who have lived their lives and are in a way satified with their lives. They usually have no problems accepting that there will be an after life that will be much more glorious than the life they have lived. Than there are people like myself, who are dealing with chronic pains and life threating diseases. It is easy for us to accept Christ and eternal life because they are dealing with a sense of hell everyday of our lives. There must be something better than this world!
That is why I am grateful for what has happened in my past. If it hadn't I may have never searched for the Lord like I have. If I was healthy my whole life, why would I have to submit to Christ Jesus? I may have felt like I don't need him, which is far from the truth! Even though those people in between are healthy and strong, this may actually be their weakness not strength. This could lead to a certain pride that makes them deaf and blind to the true word of God. They may never know what they are truely missing!
I am thankful for what I have been through because it really has given me Godly character, I wouldn't be the person I am today if I hadn't lived through what I did.
"But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold." [Job 23:10]
Picture is from http://www.christart.com/
Persevere
Hello all, I wanted to share another friend of mine that I have made from Blog Catalog. Her name is Lori Laws, and she has a beautiful blog! This is how she describes it, "It is all about perseverance - running the race of faith in the midst of her daily struggles with a muscle disease. Everything here is totally centered around the saving grace of Jesus Christ." [Lori Laws "Persevere" http://persevere-lori.blogspot.com/]
She shares the Gospel truth and her thoughts which are both very touching! She talks about her daily struggles in life, but praises the Lord along the way. Here is a passage from her blog, "An anonymous letter...to renew your confidence".
"It boils down to this: God has all power and can do anything. Nothing is impossible to Him. He has promised to answer every prayer in Christ’s name. So we must ask in full assurance of faith, expecting an answer. But should God delay that answer, or choose another path for us, He must have a mighty good reason for it all. And we must believe that whatever God permits in our lives, it will one day all work to our good. “We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose.” [Romans 8:28]" [Lori Laws "Persevere" http://persevere-lori.blogspot.com/]
It is very inspirational, so if you got time please check out her blog!
She shares the Gospel truth and her thoughts which are both very touching! She talks about her daily struggles in life, but praises the Lord along the way. Here is a passage from her blog, "An anonymous letter...to renew your confidence".
"It boils down to this: God has all power and can do anything. Nothing is impossible to Him. He has promised to answer every prayer in Christ’s name. So we must ask in full assurance of faith, expecting an answer. But should God delay that answer, or choose another path for us, He must have a mighty good reason for it all. And we must believe that whatever God permits in our lives, it will one day all work to our good. “We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose.” [Romans 8:28]" [Lori Laws "Persevere" http://persevere-lori.blogspot.com/]
It is very inspirational, so if you got time please check out her blog!
To Be Or Not To Be
I have made friends with a woman named Aleja Bennet, who has left a comment on here. "She is a survivor of abuse by the hands of her adopted parents. Writing for her has been to save lives by sharing her childhood story. Writing has changed her life which led to the healing process from all those open bleeding wounds. Then forgiveness took over and now life is so much clearer in the eyes of an overcomer."
She writes beautiful and powerful poetry and books trying to help others learn how to get through different obstacles they may encounter in life. Here is an example of her poetry:
TO BE OR NOT TO BE
Could it be me? Maybe you Why not we? Master's of this poetry
As far as we both can see
Maybe God will allow it to be.
Suddenly-quite frequently
Life changes for the good Or even the bad
Often it will make us sad
So fortunately-unfortunately It is to be or not to be.
Your quest-our quest Given it little or even your best
Accomplished-groomed-well polished
Often or not even acknowledged
High school maybe not-college
This may even sound foolish.
But however this is me
My inner within-written poetry
So smite thee-if you plea For I am to be or not to be.
Author Aleja Bennett Copyright ©2008
["Author:Aleja Bennett"http://alejabennett.blogspot.com/]
If you are interested in her work please check out her blog. I added a link on my link list.
She writes beautiful and powerful poetry and books trying to help others learn how to get through different obstacles they may encounter in life. Here is an example of her poetry:
TO BE OR NOT TO BE
Could it be me? Maybe you Why not we? Master's of this poetry
As far as we both can see
Maybe God will allow it to be.
Suddenly-quite frequently
Life changes for the good Or even the bad
Often it will make us sad
So fortunately-unfortunately It is to be or not to be.
Your quest-our quest Given it little or even your best
Accomplished-groomed-well polished
Often or not even acknowledged
High school maybe not-college
This may even sound foolish.
But however this is me
My inner within-written poetry
So smite thee-if you plea For I am to be or not to be.
Author Aleja Bennett Copyright ©2008
["Author:Aleja Bennett"http://alejabennett.blogspot.com/]
If you are interested in her work please check out her blog. I added a link on my link list.
Compassion
I have spent much of my life in the hospitals and waiting rooms. I use to get very frustrated for waiting "half a day", on daily occasions because of all my health problems. But than I started looking at the nurses and doctors point of view and for the most part they truly do care about their patients, if they didn't why would they what to go through what they go through everyday? Dealing with people who are not feeling well, the stress of people getting angry for waiting, or having the disease that they have, why there is no cure, the price of the medications and tests, and so on. They must be full of compassion, if not why would they want to help these people everyday!
Compassion: a deep awareness of and sympathy for another's suffering
As long as I could remember, I always had a positve attitude. Always smiling, talking and joking around, being polite, whenever I was at the hospital. I can't remember ever giving a doctor or nurse a hard time. I always tried to keep everyone happy, but sometimes this can be very tiring, especially when you got a beat up body like mine! *laughs*
One of my favorite signs at Penn Tower, I have seen is,
"Have you hugged your Oncology nurse today?"
It doesn't matter what kind of nurse or doctor you have. What does matter is they are are hurting too, give them a hug, you will both feel better I promise!
Compassion: a deep awareness of and sympathy for another's suffering
As long as I could remember, I always had a positve attitude. Always smiling, talking and joking around, being polite, whenever I was at the hospital. I can't remember ever giving a doctor or nurse a hard time. I always tried to keep everyone happy, but sometimes this can be very tiring, especially when you got a beat up body like mine! *laughs*
One of my favorite signs at Penn Tower, I have seen is,
"Have you hugged your Oncology nurse today?"
It doesn't matter what kind of nurse or doctor you have. What does matter is they are are hurting too, give them a hug, you will both feel better I promise!
Cancer is so limited...
Here is a sign at Penn Tower, which is a part of University of Penn. This is where my Oncologist, Dr. Porter has an office. Anyways in the back room where people wait to get transfusions of different blood products is a sign that I wanted to share with you guys. It is called,
What Cancer Cannot Do
Cancer is so limited...
It cannot cripple love
It cannot shatter hope
It cannot corrode faith
It cannot destroy peace
It cannot kill friendship
It cannot suppress memories
It cannot silence courage
It cannot invade the soul
It cannot conquer the spirit
It cannot steal eternal life!
What Cancer Cannot Do
Cancer is so limited...
It cannot cripple love
It cannot shatter hope
It cannot corrode faith
It cannot destroy peace
It cannot kill friendship
It cannot suppress memories
It cannot silence courage
It cannot invade the soul
It cannot conquer the spirit
It cannot steal eternal life!
"Creeping Death!"
Hey all you Metal heads, I know what your thinking METALLICA a Christian band? Yeah, believe it or not! Just look at these lyrics, they are straight out of the book of Exodus.
"Slaves
Hebrews born to serve, to the pharaoh
Heed
To his every word, live in fear
Faith
Of the unknown one, the deliverer
Wait
Something must be done, four hundred years
So let it be written
So let it be done
I'm sent here by the chosen one
So let it be written
So let it be done
To kill the first born pharaoh's son
I'm creeping death
Now
Let my people go, land of Goshen
Go
I will be with thee, bush of fire
Blood
Running red and strong down the Nile
Plague
Darkness three days long, hail to fire
So let it be written
So let it be done
I'm sent here by the chosen one
So let it be written
So let it be done
To kill the first born pharaoh's son
I'm creeping death
Die by my hand
I creep across the land
Killing first-born man
Die by my hand
I creep across the land
Killing first-born man
I
Rule the midnight air, the destroyer
Born
I shall soon be there, deadly mass
I
Creep the steps and floor, final darkness
Blood
Lambs blood painted door, I shall pass
So let it be written
So let it be done
I'm sent here by the chosen one
So let it be written
So let it be done
To kill the first born pharaoh's son
I'm creeping death"
[ "Creeping Death" METALLICA Lyrics on http://www.lyricsmania.com/ ]
The children of God (Israelites) were commanded by God to sacrifice a perfect lamb (no defects). Than to put it's blood on the posts around the door of their houses so that God would pass over them, but those that did not do this, allowed God to take the first born son of the household.
"And they shall take of the blood, and strike it on the two side posts and on the upper door post of the houses, wherein they shall eat it." [Exodus 12:7 KJV]
"And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt." [Exodus 12:13 KJV]
Creeping death was God going and fulfilling his promise. People say, What kind of God would kill little kids? I answer with a question. Why is death considered such a bad thing? These kids are now with God, where there is no pain or suffering. How bad can that be?
Much later, God would fulfill his greatest promise of all, which was sending his son, the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, to be sacrificed so that the sins of the world would be cleansed.
"And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved." [John 3:14-17] KJV]
Friend if you are reading this for the first time, you don't have to be afraid of death or anything to that matter. If you believe in Jesus Christ, you are covered in his blood, and that means when death comes, it will pass over you! Remember always, Jesus is Lord!
"Slaves
Hebrews born to serve, to the pharaoh
Heed
To his every word, live in fear
Faith
Of the unknown one, the deliverer
Wait
Something must be done, four hundred years
So let it be written
So let it be done
I'm sent here by the chosen one
So let it be written
So let it be done
To kill the first born pharaoh's son
I'm creeping death
Now
Let my people go, land of Goshen
Go
I will be with thee, bush of fire
Blood
Running red and strong down the Nile
Plague
Darkness three days long, hail to fire
So let it be written
So let it be done
I'm sent here by the chosen one
So let it be written
So let it be done
To kill the first born pharaoh's son
I'm creeping death
Die by my hand
I creep across the land
Killing first-born man
Die by my hand
I creep across the land
Killing first-born man
I
Rule the midnight air, the destroyer
Born
I shall soon be there, deadly mass
I
Creep the steps and floor, final darkness
Blood
Lambs blood painted door, I shall pass
So let it be written
So let it be done
I'm sent here by the chosen one
So let it be written
So let it be done
To kill the first born pharaoh's son
I'm creeping death"
[ "Creeping Death" METALLICA Lyrics on http://www.lyricsmania.com/ ]
The children of God (Israelites) were commanded by God to sacrifice a perfect lamb (no defects). Than to put it's blood on the posts around the door of their houses so that God would pass over them, but those that did not do this, allowed God to take the first born son of the household.
"And they shall take of the blood, and strike it on the two side posts and on the upper door post of the houses, wherein they shall eat it." [Exodus 12:7 KJV]
"And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt." [Exodus 12:13 KJV]
Creeping death was God going and fulfilling his promise. People say, What kind of God would kill little kids? I answer with a question. Why is death considered such a bad thing? These kids are now with God, where there is no pain or suffering. How bad can that be?
Much later, God would fulfill his greatest promise of all, which was sending his son, the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, to be sacrificed so that the sins of the world would be cleansed.
"And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved." [John 3:14-17] KJV]
Friend if you are reading this for the first time, you don't have to be afraid of death or anything to that matter. If you believe in Jesus Christ, you are covered in his blood, and that means when death comes, it will pass over you! Remember always, Jesus is Lord!
2008 Election
Well every where you look there are things advertising this election. From television commercials, magazines, newspapers, and even internet commercials. I would vote Ron Paul but I know he isn't going to win, so if you are wondering as who I am voting for, than look no further than McCain. Here are the reasons why:
If this is not enough than please watch this video:
Please don't allow my vote to alter your vote. I am just practicing my rights as an American citizen. I have just used free speech which is covered by the First Amendment which permits me to say whatever I want. When you vote, please try to use all your logic, reason, knowledge, and values to pick the right canidate for you. Remember that many people have fought and died to give us these freedoms, so please go out and vote! Let your voice be heard!
If this is not enough than please watch this video:
Please don't allow my vote to alter your vote. I am just practicing my rights as an American citizen. I have just used free speech which is covered by the First Amendment which permits me to say whatever I want. When you vote, please try to use all your logic, reason, knowledge, and values to pick the right canidate for you. Remember that many people have fought and died to give us these freedoms, so please go out and vote! Let your voice be heard!
Give Me Your Eyes
Since I have been listening to Pandora Radio(http://www.pandora.com/), I have been listening to alot of praise music. Another one of the songs, I heard and liked so much, I wanted to share it with you all!
Brandon Heath "Give Me Your Eyes" Lyrics
Looked down from a broken sky
Traced out by the city lights
My world from a mile high
Best seat in the house tonight
Touched down on the cold black tile
Hold on for the sudden stop
Breath in the familiar shock
Of confusion and chaos
Are those people going somewhere?
Why have I never cared?
Chorus:
Give me your eyes for just one second
Give me your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me your love for humanity
Give me your arms for the broken hearted
Wasnt it far beyond my reach?
Give me your heart for the once forgotten
Give me your eyes so I can see
again
again
yeah
yeah
Step out on a busy street
See a girl and our eyes meet
Does her best to smile at me
To hide whats underneath
Theres a man just to her right
Black suit and a bright red tie
To ashamed to tell his wife
Hes out of work
Hes buying time
Are those people going somewhere?
Why have I never cared?
Chorus
Ive Been there a million times
A couple of million eyes
Just moving past me by
I swear I never thought that I was wrong
Well I want a second glance
So give me a second chance
To see the way you see the people all alone. (x2)
[ Give Me Your Eyes Lyrics on http://www.lyricsmania.com/ ]
Brandon Heath "Give Me Your Eyes" Lyrics
Looked down from a broken sky
Traced out by the city lights
My world from a mile high
Best seat in the house tonight
Touched down on the cold black tile
Hold on for the sudden stop
Breath in the familiar shock
Of confusion and chaos
Are those people going somewhere?
Why have I never cared?
Chorus:
Give me your eyes for just one second
Give me your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me your love for humanity
Give me your arms for the broken hearted
Wasnt it far beyond my reach?
Give me your heart for the once forgotten
Give me your eyes so I can see
again
again
yeah
yeah
Step out on a busy street
See a girl and our eyes meet
Does her best to smile at me
To hide whats underneath
Theres a man just to her right
Black suit and a bright red tie
To ashamed to tell his wife
Hes out of work
Hes buying time
Are those people going somewhere?
Why have I never cared?
Chorus
Ive Been there a million times
A couple of million eyes
Just moving past me by
I swear I never thought that I was wrong
Well I want a second glance
So give me a second chance
To see the way you see the people all alone. (x2)
[ Give Me Your Eyes Lyrics on http://www.lyricsmania.com/ ]
7th 9/11 Anniversary
"The September 11 attacks (often referred to as 9/11) were a series of coordinated suicide attacks by Islamic extremists belonging to the al-Qaeda movement upon the United States on September 11, 2001. On that morning, terrorists affiliated with al-Qaeda hijacked four commercial passenger jet airliners. The hijackers intentionally crashed two of the airliners into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, killing everyone on board and many others working in the building, causing both buildings to collapse within two hours, destroying at least two nearby buildings and damaging others. The hijackers crashed a third airliner into the Pentagon. The fourth plane crashed into a field near Shanksville in rural Somerset County, Pennsylvania, after some of its passengers and flight crew attempted to retake control of the plane, which the hijackers had redirected toward Washington, D.C. There are no known survivors from any of the flights.
Excluding the 19 hijackers, 2,974 people died in the attacks. Another 24 are missing and presumed dead. The overwhelming majority of casualties were civilians, including nationals of over 90 different countries. In addition, the death of at least one person from lung disease was ruled by a medical examiner to be a result of exposure to dust from the World Trade Center's collapse, as rescue and recovery workers were exposed to airborne contaminants following the buildings' collapse."
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/September_11,_2001_attacks)
Today is the seven year anniversary of this horrible terrorist act. I couldn't imagine the pain those people had to deal with of losing a loved one whether it was a son, daughter, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, cousin, niece, mother or father, I am sure it was a devastating blow! I commend those people who have lost a family member and have found a way to keep moving on! This tragedy helped alot of people realize how much we are blessed to live in this nation where freedom rings! It brought the people together as one nation, where people started to care for each other a little bit more. It's great to see the love that comes from tragedy, but it is a shame that the tragedy had to happen! God bless America!
Lyrics [http://thelifeofthomascslater.blogspot.com/2008/09/brandon-heath-give-me-your-eyes-lyrics.html]
"Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, and for as many years as we have seen evil.Let your work be shown to your servants,and your glorious power to their children.Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us,and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!" [Psalm 90:15-17 ]
The Light of the World
I just had a revelation today.I had a horrible episode last night, I just let all my pains, doubts, surround me and it just over whelmed me so much! I realized that I let my fears take me over because I didnt go to God when I was scared. I should of have looked up one of them "Emergency Phone Numbers". [http://thelifeofthomascslater.blogspot.com/2008/09/emergency-telephone-numbers.html]
I didn't and I suffered because of it. Lesson learned!
The reason I am so addicted to God is because he is the only cure for my pains, that is why I have been sorrounding myself with him, through reading the Bible, TBN, praise music, and so on. I realize I am in pain all the time because of everything I have been through. It can be a negative but it is also a blessing because I am always searching for God to take the pain away. Like Jesus said, "Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. "Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God." [Matthew 5:4-8 KJV]
I believe that this is true because those that have suffered alot have been through a sense of hell. When you experience this hell, whether emotional or physical pain and if it is constant it can be very draining and devastating if you let it! The answer for me is not drugs, alcohol, or medicine it is the word, thought, worship, of my God. Praise the Lord! This is why it just hurts me so much to see those people who have turned away from God and seem to have no idea what peril they are in. Why would anyone want to go to hell? I just couldn't imagine a world without God or in other words love!
I am not trying to say in any way, that I am better than someone because I have found God. Not even in the slightest form, I am sharing my love of Jesus Christ and my stories so that people can see that he loves everyone no matter what. We all have our stuggles with God, we are all human, we all are like Jacob (Israel) from Genesis, we all struggle with God. It took me, getting diagnosed with cancer 3 times, to finally realize this. This was my struggle. Everyone is different and will have different stories, I just figured I would share this with those that have to go through hard times so that maybe it will be a little easier for them! The secret is to submit to God, trust in God, let him lead the way, everything will work out!
My Invisible Illnesses
I was diagnosed with cancer when I was two years of age, so I Have been living with an invisible illness pretty much my whole life. My God and family have given me more love and encouragement than I could handle, and I want to thank them for everything they have done for me. When I got sick my parents, family, friends prayed for me daily.
"This was the beginning of a nightmare for my parents, but an awakening for me. This is where I learned that God loves me and I have a purpose."
[My Tattoo (The Early Years Part 1)]
The doctors who helped me get rid of the cancer used chemotherapy and full body radiation. God did answer my families prayers the cancer disappeared, but I would be dealing with the side affects from the medicines used.
"The side affects I have received from the chemotheropy and radiation are hearing loss, weak roots in my gums, cataracts, heart failure, kidney failure, gout, diabetes, and weak veins. About 2 years ago my kidneys have failed completely, so I decided to go on Peritoneal dialysis. I would use hemo-dialysis as a last resort, because of my small veins." [Chemo and Radiation (The Early Years Part 2)]
"I remember the looks I received from other kids and their parents. It was very discriminating! I remember being very self conscious about this. I mean I had these veins popping out of my chest and it was very noticeable. I was still under the spell of the world, I didn’t know Jesus like I do now. That is why I believe I felt so self conscious about the way I looked. I should have been proud of these marks, these bulging veins popping out of my chest. These were medals, these were badges of honor! This was God’s mark on my body saying lay off this one he belongs to me! He is going to share his story with the world! I am NOT finished with him yet!"
[My Tattoo (The Early Years Part 1)]
So I guess you can say, that I have more than one invisible chronic illness that I am dealing with. Let me tell you that I am glad I did and do, I wouldn't be half the man I am today, if I hadn't. All the things I have been through have taught me many valueable lessons and I thank God for helping me get through them all! I am just happy to be alive! I am so thankful of what I do have, and I try not to focus on the different illnesses I am dealing with. A wise man once said,"You are what you think"(James Allen) So do yourself a favor and think positive, it's healthier for you!
I think it’s important to be involved in invisible illness week because there are many people out there that are suffering from their illnesses and they need to know that there are people out there who do care. They should feel proud that they are living their lives the best they can with their illnesses and the last thing they need is to feel ashamed or discriminated for what they have been through. So the next time you see someone that may look different, just follow what Jesus commanded, "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." [Matthew 22:39 KJV] If you practice this, everyone will be happier.
Thanks for stopping by and God bless!
You Never Let Go
Since I have been listening to Pandora Radio(http://www.pandora.com/), I have been listening to alot of praise music. One of the songs, I heard and liked so much, I wanted to share it with you all!
Matt Redman You Never Let Go Lyrics
Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death
Your perfect love is casting out fear
And even when I’m caught in the middle
of the storms of this life
I won’t turn back
I know You are near
And I will fear no evil
For my God is with me
And if my God is with me
Whom then shall I fear?
Whom then shall I fear?
Chorus:
Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me
And I can see a light that is coming
for the heart that holds on
A glorious light beyond all compare
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
We’ll live to know You here on the earth
Picture is from http://www.christart.com/
Chorus:
Yes, I can see a light that is coming
for the heart that holds on
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
Still I will praise You,
still I will praise You!
[ You Never Let Go Lyrics on http://www.lyricsmania.com/ ]
Matt Redman You Never Let Go Lyrics
Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death
Your perfect love is casting out fear
And even when I’m caught in the middle
of the storms of this life
I won’t turn back
I know You are near
And I will fear no evil
For my God is with me
And if my God is with me
Whom then shall I fear?
Whom then shall I fear?
Chorus:
Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me
And I can see a light that is coming
for the heart that holds on
A glorious light beyond all compare
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
We’ll live to know You here on the earth
Picture is from http://www.christart.com/
Chorus:
Yes, I can see a light that is coming
for the heart that holds on
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
Still I will praise You,
still I will praise You!
[ You Never Let Go Lyrics on http://www.lyricsmania.com/ ]
Emergency Telephone Numbers
These are more effective than 911. Call when...
You are sad...........................................John 14
You have sinned.......................................Psalm 51
You are facing danger.................................Psalm 91
People have failed you................................Psalm 27
It feels as though God is far from you................Psalm 139
Your faith needs stimulation..........................Hebrews 11
You are alone and sacred..............................Psalm 23
You are worried.......................................Matthew 8:19-34
You are hurt and critical.............................1 Corinthians 13
You wonder about Christianity.................2 Corinthians 5:15-18
You feel like an outcast..............................Romans 8:1-30
You are seeking peace.................................Matthew 11:25-30
It feels as the world is bigger than God..............Psalm 90
You need Christ like insurance........................Romans 8:1-30
You are leaving home for a trip.......................Psalm 121
You are praying for yourself..........................Psalm 87
You require courage for a task........................Joshua 1
Inflation and investments are hogging your thoughts...Mark 10:17-31
You are depressive....................................Psalm 27
Your bank account is empty............................Psalm 37
You lose faith in mankind.............................Corinthians 13
It looks like people are unfriendly...................John 15
You are losing hope...................................Psalm 126
You feel the world is small compared to you...........Psalm 19
You want to carry fruit...............................John 15
Paul's secret for happiness...........................Colossians 3:12-17
With big opportunity/discovery........................Isaiah 55
To get along with other people........................Romans 12
Alternate Verses
For dealing with fear.................................Psalm 3:47
For security..........................................Psalm 121:3
For assurance.........................................Mark 8:35
For reassurance.......................................Psalm 145:18
All of these numbers may be phoned directly.
No Operator assistance is necessary.
All lines to Heaven are available 24 hours a day.
Feed you Faith and doubt will starve to death!
Picture is from http://www.christart.com/
I found this on a pamphlet that came from a non-denominational church in Hammonton, New Jersey. It is called Calvery Chapel Hammonton,
here is a link to their website http://www.calvarychapelhammonton.org/
Just wanted to share it with all of you!
You are sad...........................................John 14
You have sinned.......................................Psalm 51
You are facing danger.................................Psalm 91
People have failed you................................Psalm 27
It feels as though God is far from you................Psalm 139
Your faith needs stimulation..........................Hebrews 11
You are alone and sacred..............................Psalm 23
You are worried.......................................Matthew 8:19-34
You are hurt and critical.............................1 Corinthians 13
You wonder about Christianity.................2 Corinthians 5:15-18
You feel like an outcast..............................Romans 8:1-30
You are seeking peace.................................Matthew 11:25-30
It feels as the world is bigger than God..............Psalm 90
You need Christ like insurance........................Romans 8:1-30
You are leaving home for a trip.......................Psalm 121
You are praying for yourself..........................Psalm 87
You require courage for a task........................Joshua 1
Inflation and investments are hogging your thoughts...Mark 10:17-31
You are depressive....................................Psalm 27
Your bank account is empty............................Psalm 37
You lose faith in mankind.............................Corinthians 13
It looks like people are unfriendly...................John 15
You are losing hope...................................Psalm 126
You feel the world is small compared to you...........Psalm 19
You want to carry fruit...............................John 15
Paul's secret for happiness...........................Colossians 3:12-17
With big opportunity/discovery........................Isaiah 55
To get along with other people........................Romans 12
Alternate Verses
For dealing with fear.................................Psalm 3:47
For security..........................................Psalm 121:3
For assurance.........................................Mark 8:35
For reassurance.......................................Psalm 145:18
All of these numbers may be phoned directly.
No Operator assistance is necessary.
All lines to Heaven are available 24 hours a day.
Feed you Faith and doubt will starve to death!
Picture is from http://www.christart.com/
I found this on a pamphlet that came from a non-denominational church in Hammonton, New Jersey. It is called Calvery Chapel Hammonton,
here is a link to their website http://www.calvarychapelhammonton.org/
Just wanted to share it with all of you!
Invisible Illness Awareness
"National Invisible Chronic Illness Awareness Week is held annually in September and is a worldwide effort to bring together people who live with invisible chronic illness and those who love them. Organizations are encouraged to educate the general public, churches, healthcare professionals and government officials about the impact of living with a chronic illness that is not visually apparent."[(Rest Ministries Chronic Illness Pain Support)http://www.restministries.org/invisibleillness/invisibleillnesshome.htm]
A Call to Arms!
Like I was saying I met some nice people on Blog Catalog. I met some fellow Christians on there, like Chris Esty who has also started a blog not too long ago! He has a very nice blog called, "The Bible Post: Where there is a will Jesus is The Way". I have learned some things already, that I haven't yet known, from his blog.
From Chris's Blog, "What are You Saying about Jesus Christ."
"You may not be aware of this, but testimonies of Christians are weapons of great power to overcome the hold that Satan either has, or attempts to have on God’s people. In fact, the Bible makes this point very clear when it says: “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony…” (Revelation 12:11 NKJV)"
This passage was taken from this article: The Bible Post
I am glad I have started this blog to help those that need motivation and inspiration to keep fighting the good fight! I believe that it is by no mistake of Chris and I meeting on Blog Catalog and becoming friends.
This reminds me of these Bible verses, "Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up." [Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 KJV]
To be able to communicate with fellow Chrisitians is a great tool, because we all know how hard it is to live in our world today! When we talk about our faith and God we can help each other build up our faiths and become stronger Chrisitans, so that we can be ready for what ever the world brings against us!
Is it not obvious the world does not take kindly to Christians, which brings us to another Bible verse. "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." [2 Timothy 3:12 KJV] There will come a time when we will get persecuted for practicing our faith and religion. We are going to have to be strong when that time comes. But until than, get close to God while you still can and build up your faith. Who knows when Chrisitianity, will become illegal.
Blog Catalog
"BlogCatalog is more than just a social community for bloggers; we are one of the largest blog directories on the internet. Whether you are looking to search blogs, connect with bloggers, learn more about blogging, or promote your own blog, BlogCatalog is for you!" [Blogcatalog]
It's funny as soon as I started an account on Blog Catalog which is a social community. I did it, to get some traffic to my site, which I have done! Plus I have met some really nice people! A win-win situation!
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