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When did the word different become defined as “better” or “worse”?

And why do those differences so commonly overshadow similarities?

I am not saying we are all the same

…in fact I know that is not true and it is exactly what I love about humanity.

What I am saying is—that at our core—in the foundational sense of who we are,

We are human.

We are life.

We are the experiences that shape us.

We are the motives that fuel us.

We are the emotions that mold us and color our interactions.

Those experiences and motives will vary…

In volume, intensity, morals, interpretation.

The emotions; however…

Despite what brings them on…are felt by all.

The smallest words or actions can either bring strife or glory.

Can either build up or tear down.

May we build each other up,

Praising our differences as unique ways to fit together in this world.

Are puzzle pieces the same in shape and color?

No.

Yet, they come together to display a full picture,

To tell a story.

May we do the same with each other.

Honoring, respecting, and appreciating differences.

Encouraging each other to be our piece of the puzzle,

So we can display the full picture.

We each play an integral part.

Let’s allow each other to do that.

Be Somebody, Be You

Day by day
is so easily said
But is it so easily lived?
Marked by failure, heartache, loss, and the overwhelming pressure to be somebody
But,
How is that defined?
Better question: who defines it?
Because if being "somebody" is defined by the world then good luck trying to find it.
The world spits out quick fixes, new trends, and fads
Buy into it only to be spit back out when the "new" has become a "has...been"
Been there, done that
You can't win
If you're trying to fit in
Because we are not called to blend in,
Camouflaged in deception,
No.
We are called to stand out,
To be unashamedly who we are in a world of doubt.

Beauty in Everything

May we see the beauty in everything.

In the triumphs; through the trials.

Because when our eyes are open,

We are able to see the beauty in everything.

May we be humble through our triumphs and take comfort in our trials--realizing immense growth can happen when we are tested.

There is simple beauty in tears...

Whether stemming from happiness, sadness, regret, sorrow, frustration...

It reminds us we are human.

We are alive.

We are growing.

We are learning.

We are both incredibly vulnerable & incredibly strong.

And that, in itself, is beautiful.

Living Purposefully

I don't want to live in fear.

I do, however, want to live purposefully.

Fear drives uncertainty, hesitancy, doubt, timidness

Purpose drives assurance, commitment, trust, boldness

We are not called to a spirit of fear and timidity but of power, love, and sound mind [2 Timothy 1:7]

In defining fear it states, "to feel anxiety or apprehension on behalf of" [someone or something]

A word that comes to mind in reading this definition is debilitating, which speaks of weakness--fear weakens your whole outlook and temperament.

In defining purpose it states, "having or showing determination or resolve; having a useful purpose; intentional"

Let's touch on words that correlate with this definition: strengthen, refresh, revitalize, stimulate, enliven, energize, rejuvenate.

Living with purpose encourages your spirit in times of distress and challenge, which will inevitably arise--

It provides durability and endurance.

Living in fear depletes your resolve before you ever even face a challenge.

With fear you are starting out below ground, grappling and fighting your way up through adversity.

With purpose you are standing above ground with a larger perspective--giving you the ability to conceptualize and prioritize.

God is bigger than our fears.

God provides purpose.

Perspective

I love looking back on things I have written and remembering the time in life in which I wrote them.  The following were written when I was leaving a job I loved and felt I thrived in.  The circumstances that lead to this were less than ideal but I love looking back and seeing how the Lord carried me through with perspective, grace, and love.  God knew I needed to be home.  He graciously used a tough situation to bring me back closer to family.  For that--and the lessons I have learned during that time--I am forever grateful.

I may not be the smartest person but I will never stop learning

I may not be the funniest person but I will always find a reason to laugh

I may not be the strongest person but I will never give up

I may not be the most beautiful person but I will choose to see beauty in every circumstance and person

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Some of my biggest life lessons have been learned when I felt I have been or have truly been wronged by someone.  Giving it over to the Lord to either humble me or redeem the situation for my benefit.  You will reap what you sow, and so will they. (Galatians 6:7) Trust and let Him handle it.

"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." 
- Galatians 6:7

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Standing on the Lord's foundation means when someone speaks ill of you, seeks to demoralize you or put you down--you don't have to utter a sound, defend yourself, or get caught up in the run around.  Because you trust the Lord to shine your true character--He handles the put back, the rebound.  What is lost on the world, in Him will always be found.  Our job is to turn the other cheek--overcome evil with good--so love can abound.

"Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay', says the Lord.  Therefore 'If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in doing so you will heap coals of fire on his head.'  Do not be overcome evil but overcome evil with good." - Romans 12:19-21

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True growth may be painful; but worth it.