Goodbye, 2017.

Man is like a mere breath; His days are like a passing shadow. Psalm 144:4

Coming to the end of this year I am grateful for the ordinary things:
My family
Good health
A warm home

Highlights of 2017:

♥ I contracted and wrote an Amish romance for Annie’s Fiction. I’ve contracted for a second book with them and am almost half way through the first draft.
♥ I independently published MIRACLE IN BLACK.
The ONLY way the writing happened: Prayer warriors stood with me and encouraged me. Thank you, one and all.

Lowlights of 2017:

In January, my father-in-law passed away.
In September, my father passed away.
There is so much I want to say about these two wonderful men, but when I sit down to write out my thoughts, the words dry up. They just aren’t there. Some day I’ll be able to do it. In the meantime, I’ll treasure the memories. Daddy Gavitt and Dad Greene will always be in my heart. ♥♥

Looking forward to 2018

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps. Proverbs 16:9

After the difficulties of the past two years, I’m hesitant to look forward. Business plan? (Hmmm.) Health goals? (eye-roll) What was once so easy for me to do—plan and follow through—feels almost impossible this year. But doing nothing doesn’t feel right, either.
So my faith journey for the new year begins NOW as I take the first step into the unknown that stretches before me a full 365 days—and beyond. 

I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.     Philippians 4:13

I many not know what the new year holds for me, but I do know the God who holds me and all the days of 2018 in His hands.

The LORD will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring.
Isaiah 58:11

Goodbye, 2017   –   Hello, 2018

 

 

 

 

 

Seeing From God’s Perspective

It’s easy to become completely wrapped up in my own small sphere of family, work, and responsibilities. There are times this is necessary and not a bad thing. That is where I’ve been and perhaps because of this hyper-focus the following felt like a wake-up call.

The Story is Bigger Than Yourself.
“Your prayers play a critical role in the harvest of souls. Destiny is not about you, but rather a purpose God has positioned you for that is bigger than yourself. You are entering into and inheriting a six thousand year labor of prophets, martyrs, reformers, and missionaries who came before you.” Lance Wallnau

I’ve always believed I’m here in this place at this time for a purpose. I look around me and can see all kinds of reasons why God has me here now. But I’ve never thought in terms of ‘Destiny’ or a purpose bigger than anything I can imagine. (And I’m pretty good at imagining!)

I can trace my Christian heritage back four generations. But, have I considered the thousands of years that went before that? I should be looking back as well as forward. Going bigger and wider and trying to see from God’s perspective where the past, present, and future all exist at the same time. It’s mind-boggling and makes me feel small. Which is just the opposite of how I should feel.

So how do I reach for a Destiny I can’t see and an inheritance larger than my understanding? I go back to the first sentence in the quote. “Your prayers play a critical role in the harvest of souls.” I remain faithful in prayer and the seeking of His will.

Most days I’m focused on the next hour and the next necessary step. But there will be those precious days when I will remember to look up, and I will marvel that I am invited to be a part of God’s epic story.

 

 

 

Living #D-Strong

January is whizzing past and I still haven’t wished you a Happy New Year. I’ve been mulling over what to say that would be inspirational.

I just tossed out all my ideas because right now, in my hometown, there is a story—a life being lived—that is grander and more inspiring than any thing could I write.

If you have spent any time on social media or watching the news, you have heard of Dorian Murray. A bright 8 year old boy who began his fight with cancer four years ago. Early this month, just after the start of a new year, his mom and dad received the devastating news that cancer cells had shown up in his spinal fluid.

Dorian and his family made the decision there would be no more treatments. What time he had left, they would spend making memories.

A few days after that decision, he told his dad he wanted to be ‘famous on that bridge in China.’ The Great Wall of China. Since the travel would be too much for him, he adjusted his goal. Before going to heaven, he wanted to try to be as ‘famous as much as he could.’

Family and friends took to social media. What followed has been incredible.

His wish to be famous has gone global.

People have responded from all over the world and yes, from the Great Wall of China. Astronauts, celebrities, the famous, the not-so-famous, local businesses, faraway newspapers, first responders, military personnel, puppies and kittens have rallied ’round a little boy with a big, beautiful smile.

There are lessons for us in Dorian’s amazing story.

Dorian’s wish was simple, but BIG. He wanted to be famous. How about our dreams? Are they big? If not, why not? Let him be our inspiration to dream big!

His wish has given people all over the world the opportunity to connect with something bigger than themselves. Dorian reminds us that reaching out is a good thing. There are people who need our help, and there are people willing to help us.

And finally, whatever you choose to do this coming year, cover it with prayer. Dorian’s Facebook page is titled, Praying for Dorian. Before this young boy made this wish, family, friends and local churches were holding him up in prayer. Thousands continue to pray for ‘D’ and his family. Prayer can move a mountain—and create a global movement. Don’t under estimate your dream—or where it will lead—when you invite God to participate.

The following links are a place to start if you want to know more about Dorian Murray. Just enter his name into any search engine to see who is reaching out to this young hero.

CNN article

NBC News

The Westerly Sun (hometown newspaper)

Happy 2016 to you and yours!

Anita

 

“Your Son May Never Learn To Read.”

This week, on the Small Acts of Kindness blog, I shared a little about my son’s early struggle with autism and dyslexia. As you peek through the window into his world, I hope you find encouragement for your own faith walk. Click here to read, “The Gift of Reading”.

Blessings.

My One Word 2015 – Quest

“My quest is to seek God more diligently – to know him better. I don’t know where this journey will lead. To change most assuredly, but what will that look like?” Journal entry dated January 4, 2015

After a year (2014) with the word RELEASE, I’m ready to be filled with more of God’s grace and presence.

“I am called by faith to do something new. My map for this journey is God’s Word. A lamp to my feet and a light for my path. (Psalm 119:105) God is my companion. He will never leave me nor forsake me. (Hebrew 13:5) Journal entry dated January 8, 2015

“Quest – to do the work only I can do as assigned by Father God.” Journal entry dated January 11, 2015

A feeling of urgency persists. Is it because I hit a milestone birthday a few months ago? Is it because I look at my elderly parents and see myself in twenty-five or thirty years. I must be about the work God has given me while I have my health and my memory.

This weekend I attended a writer’s retreat with my friends from Rhode Island Romance Writers. We created vision boards. Going into the workshop, I was sure my board would include some of my ‘wants’ such as a second bathroom for our home. But that isn’t what happened as I thumbed through magazines and cut out pictures and words.

Vision Board

The Rewards of Risk – Live Life Better – The Dream Chaser 
Phrases that fit well with my one word.

More time treasure hunting. Searching God’s word. Seeking His will. Isn’t that the greatest treasure of all?

My favorite part of the board is in the center:
The words – No Room For Boring
The picture – An automobile filled with Muppets! 

My quest will not be boring.

What is your word for this year? What are your expectations?

 

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