I can’t believe in a few short days it’ll be a brand new year. This one’s been good and I’m thankful to God for all the memories and all the blessings. Of course, I had my share of challenges and heartbreaks but I’m thankful God’s helped me get through them.
I’m particularly thankful to the ladies who’ve allowed me to share their stories with you (a portion of which I’ve shared on the blog). I’ve learned so much from them.
Megan
One virtue I always need more of is patience. I’ve been learning to be patient for a while. But this year after meeting Megan, I’ve learned to embrace it and accept it as part of my current season of life.
You see, I’ve been praying for something for many years. It’s been so long, I can’t even remember when I first started. But for the last two years, I grew tired of waiting. I was exasperated with being in the same spot for sooooooooo long that I was antsy and restless.
This year when I felt the familiar angst, I remembered Megan’s journey. It reminded me I need to be patient with God and not be anxious about things beyond my control.
Mary Ann
Because when I focus on the don’t have’s, not yet’s and unanswered prayers, it lowers my window of tolerance. A concept I learned from Mary Ann.
The lower my window of tolerance, the more impatient and less loving I am. Mary Ann’s journey is teaching me to be more self-aware. To recognize when I need a break and to make time for myself, mentally and physically. If I’m not in a good place (mentally and physically) then I’m not being the best version of myself.
So I’ve been focusing on the things I can change and not those I can’t.
One of the easiest things to change is my thoughts. So I’ve been working on keeping it under control and not allowing it to get carried away.
Patty
I primarily do this by shifting my focus from myself and onto Jesus, remembering what Patty said about God allowing us to be blind.
I’m reminding myself God will reveal the answers when I’m ready. It’s my mantra every time I feel discouraged because it’s so comforting and fills me with hope. At the same time my mind is focused on God, rather than my circumstance.
What I’ve learned
That’s why I’m so thankful to all the women who’ve shared their journey’s. I’ve learned so much through what they’ve shared. It’s helped me tremendously and I hope it’s encouraged you as well.