*Embrace Criticism*

Embrace criticism, whether from the wise or from fools.
Never has a word been uttered that didn't have meaning to those who heard it.

*Journey of Life*

There is a point in ones life when giving unto others is satisfying. Leaving your soul and heart full. Giving becomes second nature without thinking twice about it. There is also a point in ones life when receiving from others is a lesson that needs to be learned. This has been a difficult lesson for me but has been a humble and gratifying journey.

Many thoughts and feelings have been racing through my mind. Sadness, Anger, Confusion, Hurt.... Emotions that have left me wiping away tears from my eyes. Emotions that have left me closing my eyes sitting in silence only to notice the breathe of my soul going in and out of my body. I am really embracing this time. These emotions are my stepping stool that is bringing me closer to the vision I have of who I am.

Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.
--Aristotle

My inner fire is burning and becoming stronger. I know what I deserve. I know that sitting back and waiting for people to say or treat me a certain way is not always a good thing. I am learning that I need to ask for what I want with words. Humans can't and don't want to read my mind. I am a giver. I am a strong woman. I am worth more than I have given myself credit for. One day I will find a special individual that loves me and is proud to be with me for me.

Change and growth take place when a person has risked himself and dares to become involved with experimenting with his own life.
--Herbert Otto

I am walking with my head held high. I am embracing who I am. I am loving who I am. I am loving the progress I have made. I am the one in charge of how my destiny plays out. I am in charge of what energy is let in and out of my life.

Yesterday is the past for a reason. I know that I no longer need to talk or think about it. The past has made me who I am today. I am living in the present. As for the future, the energy and effort I give to my present is going to make my future amazing!

I sit here with a tears in my eyes. A tear of strength. A tear of gratitude. A tear of knowing that I have people that stand behind me and love me for who I am. I am ME and I love knowing that "ME" is a beautiful human being.

Fear less, hope more, eat less, chew more, whine less, breathe more, talk less, say more, hate less, love more, and good things will be yours.
--Swedish Proverb

*Tis the season to.......*

...... Oh this girl is excited!!!!

*Sister*

.no words needed.

*Service Day*

Two weekends ago a dear friend Nalani asked De and I if we would like to help with Habitat for Humanity. Without hesitation, the paperwork was filled out. I love doing service so this was definitely something I was excited for! We didn't know what our day was going to be and with the freezing cold weather...I won't lie when I saw sand paper and paint brushes for the interior come out, I got excited! Definitely a humbling experience that will become a regular service project!

Lunch time, a woman that was working on the home with us, explained to us about her situation and how she has to have so many hours in order to qualify for a home. Just listening to her first hand made my gratitude grow. Helping hands coming together to help those in need, complete strangers is just absolutely amazing!

Thank you Nalani for letting us be a part of an awesome day! January 8th we may not be so lucky inside! ha ha!

(I promise we did work!!)

* I, a Proud Sister*

I love my family and I absolutely adore my sisters.. However today I am a VERY proud sister! The courage and strength it took for De to open her story up in the interview, not many would do. Her "lifestyle" not many approve or support. However looking back from the time she was open about being gay, it makes me sad for the pain of judgment she dealt with. It's really as easy as---Love is Love.

De- I am so proud that you did this interview! I am thankful for the progress and for the amazing life you live. You have come along way and have an amazing gift that everyone around loves. I guess I am a bit selfish when I say this, but I am grateful that your story is of success and survival. It is becoming much too common for similar stories not ending Happily Ever After... Sister, You are a survivor, a fighter, a great example to so many with your strength, and most of all my best friend!

Congratulations on a job well done on the interview!

 

*Come here friend*

I woke up this morning after processing a lot of feelings and thoughts last night after a conversation I had. I am grateful to have the most amazing people in my life, that keep me balanced and remain to support me through growth in my life.

In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit. ~Albert Schweitzer

Thank you for reaching out to me since the moment I met you and for showing me the meaning of support and friendship! I couldn't resist, these pictures somehow seemed to fit this blog! ha ha ha

I love you and am so thankful to have you in my life! Thank you for the words of encouragement that you continue to give.