Not what I expected
You’ve just heard your favorite childhood songs in an oldies playlist. Now what? You aren’t disconnected because of life changes. Your worth is still as precious as gold. Transitioning from one season to the next does not lessen your worth or purpose.
Lately, I am seeing more articles and social media posts promoting walking as one of the most beneficial ways to maintain physical fitness. And I do love a good stroll: in nature to appreciate the beauty of creation, down the sidewalk to take in the storefronts, down the beach to listen to and watch the waves roll in. No matter where this takes place, there are always three main components: foundation (what you’re walking on as well as protecting your feet); what your takeaway is; the things that trip you up or block the path and a decision is needed. These are the things I need for a successful outing:
My husband LOVED to tease me about needing to be inside my box: my controlled world, my organized and tidy way of thinking and processing. My rules. No other point of view was necessary. Then I learned to go outside the box, and while I feel a twinge of anxiety when I do, I actually enjoy it. There’s a lot of freedom there! For the purpose of this landing page, however, we are back to boxes. My brain needs both a quick reminder and a detailed synopsis. Each post will reflect any combination of these components.
God’s word is our forever love letter, reference manual and source of reassurance of His love, faithfulness, truth, purpose (please add to this list!). No matter what I have encountered since becoming a follower, no matter if my faith wavered or strayed, the bible has held the same truths and has been an anchor for me. The passages have taken new perspective each time I visit old pages. My heart craves the tenderness of history of God’s faithfulness. It’s an adventure unique to the setting but always with the same conclusion: God loves you and longs for you to draw close to Him.
You don’t arrive to your midlife without finding some gems along the way. I have stored up stories of God’s provision in trying times. I have parenting joys. I have learned to live life differently as the Holy Spirit works in my heart. I see people differently – through God’s eyes – as I learn more about His love for me and all His children. I have highlighted many scripture passages that hold special moments and truths. I have so many images of the world around me – in my memories as well as in my photos – of the beauty we are blessed with. These are some of my gems. What are yours?
More times than I care to admit, I have stumbled or fell while walking or hiking. Sometimes it has been incredibly painful. Other times, very embarrassing. Once in a while, it’s both. Such is life. These aren’t pleasant times, but sometimes they can be the most impactful way we learn lessons and learn to trust God. When we are at our deepest need, we are the most open to a solution or assistance. No matter how hard or heartbreaking a chapter in life has been, I have survived. There’s just no other way to go forward. It’s not always pretty and doesn’t fit within my timeline. I’m willing to be open. Can we share these experiences together?
Her Second Half Faith 