Decisions, Do-Overs & Destiny

THIS IS~
but a brief documentation of & in time. From the moment you started reading this – many things & people have changed. Most likely a life was created & a life ended. In the well-known ‘dash’ between your birth & your departure from this realm, what difference have you made in the lives you touch? What difference has been made within you? In the end, the difference God has made in & through you will matter.

Ask yourself…Have you set an example of excellence in the experiences you have had or in those you have created? When others hear your name, do they have positive pictures in their mind’s eye of you & your integrity?

What will you sow, reap, & harvest from your life? The ‘values’ & talents you have are treasures that have been entrusted to you. How wisely have you invested them in the life of another? What matters to you-money & material gain or moments & memories that are more precious than gold?

Take a brief moment in time & reflect on where you stand in eternal priorities. Rest assured, there are no do-overs. There will always be graves of regrets covered with the soil of sorrow. Earthly tears are shed for the loss of the physical man, yet the heavens weep for the loss of the spirit of the man who arrogantly stood upon his own feet in defiance rather than humbly stand at the feet of Jesus & accept His Gift of Salvation & Eternal Life with Him.

Yes, THIS IS~ the end of the beginning of the last paragraph. THIS IS~ parallel to the end of a life. There is a period…no comma…no next page.
The next chapter is yours to acknowledge & accept. How many lives have come & gone since you started reading this sentence? - One day- yours will be one of them. Answer this - if THIS IS~ the last sentence you ever read~Do you know where you will live for all Time? If not, Yubw8n?

"Did You See That?"

"Did you see that? The look on the face of a child when something wonderful happens is priceless. The awe & wonder of "Wow!" glistens in their eyes as they longingly wish to share this event with you.


As you face your day how many moments do you capture that prompt you to say ‘Did you see that?'~ then invite another to share in your joy? Far too often we take those moments for granted. Either we harbor the joy inwardly for a brief moment with a sigh of appreciation or we let it roll by us as merely a common occurrence. But rarely as adults do we share those times of eye opening wonder with others, like we did as children. Why is that, I wonder?

Today, as you go about your routine, take the time to recognize at least one of the ‘awesome’ moments that is placed before you. Oh there will be several; God has an unending supply just for you. Here is how they may appear- It can be a small thing, a gesture, a word of encouragement, or maybe a smile & a warm hello to someone you meet in passing. For the one who is truly ‘in awe’ & blessed is the one who receives.


Maybe ~ that person you pass on the street, or in the hall at work, or the aisle in the grocery store is having a really difficult time in their life. Your gesture of kindness may be that moment in their day that their inner child whispers to them - “Did you see that?”

That, my friend, is God being Awesome in & through you."

Rearranging Your Views ~ Gizmo Style

Rearrangements of even the most common of things can be traumatizing to some. When I rearranged my living room recently, it appeared to be livable. Well, maybe for me, but not for my Japanese Chin Gizmo. He had gone to the groomer, so I took the opportunity to do a little cleaning & rearranging.

Afterwards, when he was introduced to the new digs, it seemed that maybe with a little time, he would adjust. Wanting to be cuddled & held is his thing, so I figured maybe after a good night’s rest, he would take to the new 'in front of the window' look-out-perch I had created for him.

The next morning, he clearly had other ideas. When he wasn't doing a little pace around the coffee table, he just wanted held. And if not held, to be looking up at me from the floor-you know, with those big brown eyes that make you simply put down the coffee & pick him up. Yep- that’s the look. All of this was more than confirmation. My idea of change was not welcomed. So, we compromised.

I lifted him up & loved on him. As I watched, he glanced over at the window.Maybe he was remembering how nice it was to look out while on the back of the sofa, in between naps, that is. He did a little glance at the blanket, pillows, & steps as if to say: ’Mom,this is not home~would you put it back, please.’(insert little sigh here)

Here we go. We made a few modifications back to the way it was. His steps to the sofa were placed where he could get easy access. And what he knew as home reappeared. As I write this, there is a very contented little dog, that in between look out duty for squirrels & the occassional bird watching, is catching a few moments of Sunday afternoon shut eye on the back of 'his' sofa. This to him is one of life's many joys.

So, what did the 'human' learn from all this? (Besides that I need to remember to buy lighter furniture next time~) Everyday, God teaches me something through my little dog, Gizmo. Today's lesson: One's 'viewpoint of life' although it may be rearranged ~ with a little humility, determination & persistence~you can rise above what is between you & your happiness. This provides the opportunity to once again be a home within your heart

Gizmo…knows that a 'living room' is for just that~living comfortably. Sometimes, even if change is not comfortable, simply asking for help, or rearranging the room & circumstances may get you back to the living part. After all, there’s a whole world of nifty things & critters out there that needs watching over.
Today~Gizmo has that covered.

Thanks for the heart lesson.
I love you too.

Seasons Change

Spring pulled back the covers on the bed of flowers & touched them with fresh morning dew..

Butterflies stretched their wings for the first time to flutter to a nearby flower. Cotton-like clouds barely moved across the crystal blue sky with destinations unknown. Birds practiced their solos from the branches of the trees that waved their leaves in applause. Life, wakes up once more from it’s slumbering solitude of seasons.

Summer opened the picnic basket of warmth and hospitality for all to dine.

Family gatherings took to the highways of vacations by the ocean’s cresting waves or mountain lakes of grandeur and awe. Children run free of classroom rules, while parents bask in the sun of no work worries.The day sets upon the edge of the horizon. Patiently she awaits the dawn to break the seal of night’s darkness.

Autumn picks up her palette to paint the leaves random hues of crimson and gold.Natures canvas of green lay waiting for change to challenge time.
Having provided shade for the season, the leaves dance to the ground as the cooler winds whisper goodbye to the summer breezes.

Briskness sneaks in the window of the day and stays throughout the night leaving behind the frosty evidence of its stay upon everything in its path. The clock misplaces an hour of time; nature and life prepares to sleep.

Winter walks in without wanting as individual flakes float lazily to the ground. Each flake has its place to fall upon the earth.

The air is clear, crisp, and craving the show of moisture from the shoveling steam of effort. Fireplaces give the sky a wisp of smoke that travels along the rooftops. Earth has its time of respite, repair, and rejuvenation for soon the beautiful blanket of snow will feel the tender hands of Spring pull back the covers once more...

Are you enjoying the Seasons of your Life? If not...Yubw8n?

"Order Up!"

"May I See A Menu, Please"

Sometimes we go out to eat & then stare at the familiar menu of selections as if it is the very first time we have seen it. Then, we will ask the waiter about the ‘special of the day’& if THEY like it or not. Why do we base our selection choice often on the scale of someone else's likes & dislikes when it is our meal? Everyone’s pallet is different.It would appear that conversation accompanies cuisine in similar ways. Yet, rather than be cautious & concerned about our tone of conversation, & weight of our words, we ramble off statements with little or no consideration as to how they will look on another person’s feelings. We take liberties with the pre-determined portions of praise & curried conflict heaped upon someone else’s plate when we should be more considerate. We would be wise to taste our words before dishing them out.

When you speak, do you weigh your words opposite your thoughts before opening your mouth? Do you regurgitate your opinions & spit & splatter them upon others? Do you shove them down another person’s throat? Is it easy for all to see that you’re full of yourself & not only do you need a healthier dialog diet 'butt' you could stand a little help when it comes to how to scale down your fattened ego of expressions? Don’t worry; you are not alone in this self indulgent society of overweight sentiment.There are many who need to tighten the belt on their panting of complaints & find more compassion in their conversational cuisine. We would not be so miserable to ourselves & to others if we would just walk away from debates, disputes,& side dishes of drama. Indigestion from certain relationships could be avoided if we kept our opinions, comments & harmful whimsical rambling of words to ourselves. It’s good to know when we have had enough of even a good thing…let alone, something or someone who is unhealthy.
Today we have fast food & fast talkers that devour one another with a second helping but rarely a second thought.
Even our sentences contain words related to eating & food.

Phrases like:
You are going to have to EAT your words.
What’s the SKINNY on that?
Oh, we are just CHEWING the FAT.
You haven’t got the STOMACH for that.
I have a lot on my PLATE to do.
They have a healthy APPETITE for living.
You can DISH it out but you can’t take it.
I’ll take another SLICE of the PIE.
That’s CRUMBY.
Have your CAKE & EAT IT too.
Life’s so short, take SECONDS first.
That’s GRAVY.
He had to be SPOON fed all the way.
Your words really cut like a KNIFE.
You speak with a FORKED tongue.
He’s really MILKING the opportunity or is he just EGGING you on.
We had a celebrity ROAST for him even though he’s just small POTATOS in the industry.
It was really WATERED down.
Have you ever been BUTTERED up?
Seriously, what’s the SCOOP on that?
They are the top BANANA.
You are the APPLE of God’s eye. (That one, I like...;)

We talk about FOOD or food related slang even when we are making reference to something that has nothing to do with food. It is self consuming. We wrap our thoughts in niceness or humor, with a lot at ‘Steak’ & even though we meant ‘well’... ‘Rarely’ is this skill-et ‘well done.’

Never leave a conversation or any area of concern that may be ready to boil over, unattended. This could cause a fire that burns a relationship so badly that even the most sincere of apologies cannot extinguish it before its total demise. Season your words to taste. No more, no less. Mean what you say-say what you mean. Get out of the kitchen of comments if what is being prepared does not suit you. Why partake of something or associate with someone who is not to your liking. Be as selective in your relationships as you are in your dining. People of quality are sustenance for the soul & are to be appreciated for their own ingredients to the relationship. Our words reflect our hearts so always strive to be a Gourmet of Edification.

Menu Options:

Too Many Second Helpings:
It is easy to see & clear to hear that many people are extremely obese in physical demeanor & in how they wear their feelings upon their sleeve. Over indulgence is not at all attractive. Words can quickly become a premeditated sentence of situational suicide. Since we are what we eat, say,& profess.What happens if we open our mouth & nothing but air (or error) comes out? Then what? Yet, many are exercising their freedom of speech while not following the proper form in how they weigh words before speaking. Every day we see people in constant communication without even thinking about it. It is like breathing. Phones & fingers move quickly sometimes before the words even form in their minds or the light turns green as horns blare from irritated bystanders. This inconsideration towards others is the feverish food fight of fast forward thinking. Even though driven for better, they are mindlessly tossing the trash out the window of opportunity expecting someone else to pick up after them. This is rudeness with reasons no one will respect. We do this with our words. We say things, hurtfully & expect someone else to come along & make it all right. Wrong! Whether it be spoken from a podium, pulpit, or pillow, WHAT you say is not as important as HOW it is said, heard, & perceived. You know you have said…”yeah, but what I meant was…” This is the specialty of the house…a side-dish of dropped intention soup. A mess you will undoubtedly be cleaning up repeatedly, unless you hear your thoughts through before you pass the taste- test of talking.

The Assumption Appetizer:
This is featuring a popular dish named after many who partake: ‘Me-ism’. This selection takes only a little time to boil over,as it will spew its heated substance on the most sensitive of tough skinned hearted people, & then often leaves a scar of a memory many would like to forget. These people speak in dashes of demands. But rather than keep their words in small easy to swallow bite size morsels, they take each irresponsible action & irrational decision to irritate as many people as they can in one sitting. This is grammar gluttony.Let's dismiss them from the table, shall we.

Too Hot To Handle:
In a heated & haughty (hot) debate, discerning disagreements, or a deliberation of dialog, keep your words short, sweet, & smooth. These very words that dissolve from your thoughts to your voice must be easily digested. For this to happen, they must be measured precisely, pronounced properly, stirred with care as to not stick or scorch,& when tasted by the listener, they need be considered - a delicacy of edible expressions.

The Lighter Fare:
Look at poetry. As a poet paints their emotions in prose,& flavorful limericks, they season them with the right amount of sugar & spice & everything nice. These morsels will be tasted by the most sensitive of poetic palates. This recipe for rhyme is an art form. Therefore, be an artist. Mix & blend the colors of your thoughts in such a manner that when another hears your words, they appreciate your good taste. They will be blessed having shared an enlightening experience that will surely linger long upon the palate of their mind.You will be making an impression that will feed their soul.

Order Up...Wait on Words!!
Be a server & a servant of The Words that nourish & matter most…the Bread of Life.
Go ahead...have a seat. We will be with you in just a moment. While you are waiting-Take a look at GOD's Menu for Living.
Yubw8n.


NOTE FROM SHARON: "This writing was inspired by that of a reading I did years ago. What I learned stayed with me over time. Our words can set us free or we can be surely HUNG BY THE TONGUE. I trust the thoughts I have expressed in this blog will bless your heart & be food for thought. Always speak with words that you yourself would be able to swallow. And remember...once they leave your mouth, there are no leftovers or true do-overs."

Success is yours. Victory and defeat are born in the mind, "As a man thinks in his heart, so is he." (Proverbs 23:7) Humans speak what they believe and think, often causing defeat. "Death and life are in the power of the tongue." (Proverbs 18:21) Jesus said, "My words are spirit and life." (John 6:63) Fear will prevent you from speaking victory. This little book has helped many to rise from their defeated condition to a victorious life.

What you say...is often what you get. Place this 'read' on your menu.

Raining with Reason

Sprinkles of rain can become a downpour. A cloud burst may be seen as a heart overflowing with emotions. Put on your glasses & galoshes & step into a time where getting wet with wisdom is as easy as stepping outside your comfort zone. Let love rain or is that reign?


Have you ever stopped what you were doing to just walk in the rain? You could be in your best attire as you throw designer drama of dry cleaning debt to the wind,& stomp in the biggest deepest mud puddle of them all. As your hair clings to your brow,& droplets race to the cliff of your nose before plummeting to the ground, you turn your face to the direction of the sky. This is where thoughts of the experience take a turn…Question is- Do you see this as a lovely day?
We see blessings in life either as a soft gentle rain on a crisp autumn day or a thunderstorm of trials that test the umbrella of our patience. It's true, there are several people who have had that umbrella turn wrong side out with misfortune~ a sudden burst of hopes & dreams in the midst of trials. These folks scamper to the nearest awning to seek shelter.


What awning do you stand under in a storm after your umbrella of understanding has become tattered? Do you find yourself in the company of others seeking the same refuge? Do you share your thoughts on the circumstances that are pouring down on your life?


You are thinking to yourself…’are you crazy, why would I share that with a total stranger?’ Well, many people do this every day. In the middle of the storm, they share their thoughts with a God that they never really acknowledge in the fair weather times of their life, but cry out & sometimes curse Him when trouble befalls them. Just like a storm that suddenly appears, they complain about it before they really notice the benefits. God was there when the sun was shining but often He never heard from those it was warming beneath its light. Why is it people talk to God, the Stranger they have no time for, only when their back is against the wet wall of what-if & the pleading moments of desperation for help. Then when the storm has passed, they return to the non-communicative relationship of self sufficiency. This is the time to come in out of the storm of self.

The Creator holds each rain droplet as special & unique. How He sees each of us is how we should see the elements of a storm. Let's focus on just the 'rain'...
Every droplet of rain has a destination~


It may be destined to land on a flower, a car, a birdbath, a child’s face, a homeless person in need of a touch, or a seed buried deep within the ground anticipating that first ray of sunshine. Whatever the destination you were created for, go with the flow of each droplet of opportunity. See this as a way to provide a need to another person. Yes, you may be the very refreshment they seek in the drought of despair, the answer to a prayer, the sustenance to quench a thirst for truth, or just a moment to be acknowledged & supported so that they can believe in themselves by your belief in them. A single hello, have a nice day, take care, how are you, God bless…Simple things can make all the difference in a broken heart that screams for love in silence~


Appreciate the moments for what they are. Never take a single droplet of destiny for granted. These are someone’s Showers of Blessings as your Life is a beautiful rainbow declaring that God Reigns.
Walk in the Rain with Reason. As you do, you will discover it's purpose in your life. Be grateful for each storm...Yubw8n...the Son is always shining on you!

LIFE- How Does Yours Fit You?

Dressing rooms should be sound proof. We have all been there. You know, as you are trying on clothes sometimes you start with the size you would like to be and end up with the size that actually fits. The process of understanding this game of fantasy fashion is like that of fantasy football. You pick your teams: blouse, shirt, pants, sweaters, etc and hope for a winner.
During that process of trying the stuff ‘on’ we have a tendency to fly ‘off’ to an imaginary world fit of ridiculous expectations and wardrobe reality. When the two collide, we need the sound proof room to buffer our voiced discoveries.

Finding the correct fit in relationships, careers, and communication can also be frustrating.

Relationships-There are people who just won’t fit in with other people. Their mindsets are always going to be too loose or too tight. Sadly, in these relationships, many will compromise and wear a ‘friendship or love interest’ that is not flattering to them at all. They have decided that they just want to be comfortable and this is more important than how the one reflects positively or compliments the other. It may be too much ‘work’ to search or wait for the exact fit. Some will wear the same faded worn out saggy pants everyday rather than patiently accept the fact that they would be happier with someone else who fit their tastes far better. Compromise is one’s character caught in the clearance rack of self esteem.

Career opportunities are also areas of life that can be successfully ‘altered’ to best fit the person’s personality, performance, and passions. Many have success in their career which gives their character confidence. It is with time one learns their craft. To force a versatile persona into a pair of time-clock-watching-micro managing-office-miss-fits, is asking for an uncomfortable experience. You need to be able to breathe, to be yourself and move freely in your occupation; be flexible in thought and matching of talent with task. Otherwise, you will strip yourself of this ill fitting attire and move on to the next opportunity feeling discounted for your attempts. However when the career fit is right, heads turn, compliments flow, success is shared, efforts are shown appreciation and happiness is worn by all concerned.


Communication You heard what you said but is it what you meant? You tried to convince yourself that this color or style would flatter your figure or overall appearance. We tell ourselves half truths all the time. And we are resistant when someone begins to shine the light on the other half. Then we see clearly where the seams of the sweater are snagged, the button of babbling has fallen off and there it is for all to see- a gap in communication. We have to educate ourselves on how to hear ourselves. Be alone with ourselves so that when others are around us, we appreciate both times equally. If someone is not clear in their communication with you, it may be because they are unsure of themselves because they truly don’t know themselves. They have been busy taking care of others so much that they are wearing hand-me-downs in the area of self. But in many cases it is very likely that they fear your response. They have committed a friendship flop. Like mixing strips and plaids it can be difficult if you are blind to the combination or turn away from the mirror too soon before you see the entire outfit.
What to do with broken buttons of communication is to not ‘zip your lip’ but to step back and together look at what may need taken in a bit, let out a little, tucked and pulled to where it best suits you. This takes time that many are simply not willing to invest.

So, the next time you step in to that little gotta 'try it on fitting room' at your favorite clothing store, take a minute and listen to the sounds around you. Voices will tell you many things even if you cannot understand the words. Tone is to expression like the tag is to a garment. It tells you how to best care for the investments you are wearing daily…your relationships, career, and communications. Never let the unacceptable attire of life wear you out.

1. Iron out the relationship wrinkles,
2. Tumble the talents of your career choices available to you on a less stressful temperature and
3. Add a little more softener to your words. There…doesn’t that look better on you. Time for a change? If so, Yubw8n?

©2011sedawson Yubw8n.Blogspot.com Promo2motion.com

It's for you...

The phone rings...you pause for just a moment & wait as someone answers it & turns to tell you - "It's for you." Or maybe you've missplaced your cell phone & you're concerned about missing an important call from someone that is 'just for you'. Maybe you will miss the call regarding an emergency that you need to be informed of or an invitation to a special occasion meant- 'just for you'. Either way, you may experience a feeling of disconnection when communication is gone & out of your control.

It seems these days that everyone has their ear glued to the cell phone or texting with abandonment- in the car, at crosswalks, in stores, bathroom stalls, & even in the most intimate of settings-we really don't know the value of true communication at all. We have made it artificial.

Even when the phone rings- we jump to answer the call. When we have excitement to share, we immediately reach for the phone to call someone to share it with. Even as children we play ‘telephone’& actually never out grow the want-to of speaking to people on the phone. This fun, continues...

Caller ID is a great feature as it let's us see the present situation in real time & decide our actions; whether we will take the call or let it go to a recording even if it is convenient for us to answer. This ‘letting it go’ is simply another form of procrastination. Sooner or later, we know that we will retrieve the missed call, listen to it & then decide, if it is still an option to call back, an action worthy of our invested time.

Life is like that too. People come & go in our life. Many go to our ‘procrastination’ area. We avoid feelings, confrontation, decisions, & closure. If we had had a caller ID on this relationship, we would often just delete it entirely,if we knew then what we know now or should it just not suit us. This irritation rings & rings repeatedly until an action is completed. What is it that stops us from dealing with the situation...the person? Where is the communication?When was the last time you sat still, silent with another person, & then actually talked face to face? We get wrapped up in our life's 'stuff' & give less time to 'people' for who they truly are.

When opportunity calls, answer it. You never know who is on the other side, what it is that is being presented & if you fail to answer the call, well…you have done just that- Failed to Answer the Call. You missed it. And you may not have a return number to call back & hopefully recapture the missed moment.

On the Spiritual side of things, when you choose to be disconnected from your GOD, your Source, you are also lost. Communication has broken down. Prayer is a form of that relationship & requires no special words, equipment, or environment. There is no special ‘ringtone’, service plan, or unique gadget to use. You can talk with God anytime, anyplace, about anything. He is always awake & on your time zone. No long distance fees, no taxes, no rules. Just talk.


While we smile at the little one who finds joy in playing 'grown up' on the telephone,ask yourself this...Have we taught our children the value of prayer?
Do we appreciate the time we have to share our hearts with God?
So, the next time your cell phone rings…maybe a special ring tone of a loved one or a dear friend…don't hesitate- pick it up. They have a reason for calling you.

And as for prayer...God is waiting to hear from you. By the way, God doesn’t need ‘call waiting’,’ call forwarding’, or ‘caller ID’. God knows you intimately & loves you eternally– He just wants to hear your voice. Take the opportunity!

Ring...Ring...Answer His Call...
Ask yourself-Yubw8n?
After all,It's for you

The Beauty of FoG

“Please remain seated until the pilot has turned off the ‘fasten your seat belt’ sign.” So you sit there and gaze out the window and notice that you are flying over mountains yet, you cannot see them clearly because of fog. You know they are there, the pilot has mentioned them and you gaze out just in time to notice their grandeur or what you had hoped to be so. But today, the fog is hindering the crispness of their edging into the blue sky and for just a brief moment, you are disappointed.

Your expectation of their magnificence is hazed by the mist that swirls about between you and the mountain. As you move further away you glance again and see that the fog is circling the very top and yet the base of that mountain is in clear view.
The highest point of Glory is reflecting the awesomeness of our Creator- the Favor of God (FOG)

The base of our faith is clear. The Favor of God will linger lovingly on the crest of the horizon. As you trust in the Son to shine upon your faith, He will create a spectacular confidence in your soul.

Anticipate the beauty in everything and appreciate everything as beautiful. Trust in that. Look beyond the immediate and embrace the Favor of God in your life.

Batter Up-Rounding the Bases of Life

"Batter Up-Rounding the Bases of Life"
by: Sharon E. Dawson

Do you swing at the first pitch?
Or do you wait for the best opportunity to come across your path?


In baseball, like life ~ many of the most valuable hits are made by waiting for the best. However, if you wait too long for too many, this can leave you watching the game from that eerie corner of the bench of regrets.

When looking for the opportunities in life to make a difference in another person, you must remember to stand close enough to the plate, yet not crowd it, and know how to best address the pitch or the opportunity.

Draw upon your senses to know when it is best to swing (make an effort), wait (determine if it is the best for you), and if need be, take the ‘walk’ (accept that what you have been thrown is just what it is and move on).

Many homeruns in life have been walked around the bases so there is no shame in that. Just shows you have a keen eye for decisions and you know how to reach your destination in any manner worthy of your time.

In careers, friendships, parenting, and personal growth, we stop and evaluate what the best opportunities are.

Balk at the best and you miss out.

Bunt and you need to hustle to just make the first level.

Swing without perception and you limit your chance to hit.

Look away from the obvious and you hear the strike against you.


Take the time to learn the game of life. You will round the bases with crowds cheering you on. Yet the biggest fan who will never leave you is the One who first showed you how and encouraged you to stand tall, hold on, and swing with sincerity.

You need to practice being ok with you ~ accepting your successes and your failures.
No matter the score, there is only one batter allowed at the plate at any time. And when your opportunity to make a difference is presented to you ~ make it matter.

Imagine the Coach saying to you every morning "Welcome to another opportunity at bat in the game of life. I'll be cheering you on, My Child. Run the race with diligence and determination, leaving your all on the Field of Faith!"

R U in or out of dOUbT?

“Are you: In or are you Out? You definitely are either one or the other. You are in faith or out. You are in doubt or out. You are in peace or out. One way to determine where you stand IN your faith is to look at your response to doubt. Where do you store those moments of confusion? There is usually not enough room for peace when doubt is present also. They are not compatible and create compromise and chaos in your spirit.

Often we say that we feel ‘out of sorts.’ Really exactly what is a ‘sort’ and how does one get IN to a sort because you can only get out of something what you put in to it.

We do say things like: “I sort a’ doubt it” when questioning our faith about something or someone. Maybe it is because you are compromising your desires by carrying confusion in your life instead of cradling peace in your heart?

Next time you find yourself entertaining doubt about your faith, your peace, or even your purpose for being, realize that where you stand (in or out) clearly will show you where and IN WHOM you have placed your faith.

Look at the word ‘dOUbT’. Notice that the “B” is silent. There is really no reason to “B in dou_t”, but then it would be spelled IN-correctly, LOL.

Have a blessed day...Go ahead...Be IN the moment...Yubw8n.

“Some More”

Enjoying “Some More” of life

S’mores. The unique combination of chocolate and a toasted marsh mellow hugged on both sides by a graham cracker. \


The first time I ate one of these sweet tasty treats was at summer camp. This treat added a new dimension to the time spent with friends around a campfire. We would look for the perfect stick,widdle the tip, secure the marsh mellow to the end and watch it swell when it was placed just above the top of the flame.


Then when it was just the right amount of gooey and toasted to perfection, we would take a couple squares of a Hershey bar, a reasonable size graham cracker and sandwich all the ingredients between the crackers. This was the campfire experience that still lives on.


This was and still remains ~ the s’mores experience.



But really what is a S’more?



Let’s look at this tasty treat’s Etymology and Origin:

S'more appears to be a contraction of the phrase, "some more." While the origin of the dessert is unclear, the first recorded version of the recipe can be found in the publication "Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts" of 1927. The recipe is credited to Loretta Scott Crew, who reportedly made them by the campfire for the Scouts. It is unknown whether the Girl Scouts were the first to make s'mores, but there appears to be no earlier claim to this snack. Although it is unknown when the name was shortened, recipes for "Some Mores" are in various Girl Scout publications until at least 1971.

Life Lesson:

Everyone wants to get more out of life. When you find yourself striving to become more than you are, to do more than you can – stop for a bit…maybe a bite. Take some time to create the ‘some more’ moment. That time we associate with precious rest and relaxation …a moment to just become mellow, mix with sweetened decadence, and a graham cracker blanket.




Curl up and let the memories from yesteryear, and the taste of simplicity dance in your mind.


Go ahead…
Enjoy the sweetness of the life you live.
Yubw8n...have s’more of life!!

Entangled Webs Of Relationships

“Freedom is recognized as you celebrate the departure of the narcissistic people who used to be in your life. They no longer have power to manipulate the friendship. The web has been destroyed.

You see clearly who they are with their disappointing & disheartening display of a dysfunctional deceitful drama disguised in their well rehearsed ramblings of self-made success.
You realize that the relationship has always been about them.
Let them continue their ‘game of chase’ for in time they will grow weary of your lack of admiration & willingness to seek after them. They will build many webs in their lifetime, yet the prey is always the same.
For they need to have someone coddle over them with sought after empathic enabling phrases. Yes, this subtle form of manipulation gives their ego power.

When you move toward the positive~
you will surely appreciate the blessings given you. And you will discover the beauty that comes with empowering the relationships that really do matter most."

©2011sedawson Promo2motion.com

"He Can Open Her Heart"

It's a joy to be an instrument
in the life of another~
I know He can open her heart…

God gave me a gift shortly after I met Rosa at the local grocery a few weeks ago. We met in the sardine, tuna, and other quick meat aisle. I was standing next to her when I noticed her shoes. Or better yet, the broken flip flops that only provided a small space of cushioning between the soles of her feet and the floor. As I observed her homeless situation it was another one of God's divine connections.

I asked her what her favorite brand of tuna might be or did she prefer sardines. I mentioned I was not really up to speed on the best brands but was considering making a tuna salad. She looked at me and smiled with her reply. Then she stated that although she did prefer a specific brand of each, because she was without a way to successfully open the container she usually purchased a brand that came with a pull tab.

I glanced at the items she had placed in her cart. She had methodically gathered a cart full of convenient coupon attached items of which most were on sale or from the discounted display. It was obvious that her preference for having food was more important that spending money on a way to get to the better tasting, comparable in price foods.

A few minutes passed and I asked where she was from. And after hesitating for just a moment,and not wanting to embarass her, I added "around here?" She smiled knowingly and confirmed that yes she was local. I mentioned that if I would have known I would have already put the extra kitchen ware which included a can opener, in my car. For I had planned to take this to the Goodwill. She could have it. Not missing a beat, she stated that she could wait here or meet me next week if I would bring it to her. Told her I had some errands in the store and I would chat with her soon.

Now, I know what an everyday kind of missionary is. For in the very next aisle were the handy dandy devices that make our lives easy. And moments later Rosa was the proud owner of her very own can opener. It really wasn’t much of a gift but to her it seemed to mean the difference in everything – what she had for her meals and moreso, what she no longer had to settle for…one less compromise. To me it was a gift as well. For it was in giving a simple gift of comfort that I received the same in return.

She saw that I had signed the receipt with a personal blessing and then when I mentioned that the head cashier was aware it was prepaid, we exchanged a quick smile. I wished her well. Then she smiled as she thanked me by offering to take me to lunch. We both innocently laughed a little at that comment, although it was sincere. As she happily shared the answer to my original question of which brand tuna she really did prefer, the divine connection was obvious to me by our abilities to help the other. Rosa provided me with the answer to my question and I was able to assit with the answer to her quest. Everyone needs to be considered as significant and sometimes the unfamiliar is on purpose.

It is like this in my walk with the Lord. Sometimes He places me in areas I am not familiar and introduces me to people that most folks may just pass by. I get a kick out of His timing. Today Rosa and I both were blessed. I am the one who was blessed by listening to His guidance in sharing with her. He showed me a clever cute way to remember this experience- I pray that Rosa knows the Lord for He ‘can open her’ heart to His unconditional love and acceptance for her.

In thinking back on this experience, I know the Holy Spirit led me to meet Rosa and to learn from this time invested in the life of another. It reminds me of another time when He used sincere simplicity to meet the needs of others...a small child, a couple loaves of bread,and few small fish. These fish just happen to be in a pull top can ;o)

~Allowances~

Making & Creating Allowances






As a kid, did you get an allowance and if so, how much and what for? When you worked hard and got a good grade in a class did you receive compensation for doing so? When and if you headed out to college, who paid for your education then? Did you get a student loan? Parents fit the bill? Or did you get a scholarship? Who purchased your first automobile or were you even barely past 16 yrs old before you were given one just because…? Did you expect this or were you grateful?


Now you are an adult and you have responsibilities. You may have a good job, a spouse and children of your own. Or you may be single with a different briefcase of responsibilities that fit your lifestyle. Either way--You have responsibilities and obligations. And in the real world unless you do what you are doing well, the compensation whether financially or emotionally will reflect your efforts. There are NO handouts. There’s a difference between ‘permission and allowances’. Let’s look at our responsibility when it comes to being respected and respectful in life’s understanding of these.


A different set of ‘allow’ances! You are allowed to make mistakes. You are allowed to say “I’m sorry”. And you are allowed to forgive when wrong has been focused in your direction. These allowances are far different from the ones you received growing up. No one is going to compensate you just because you are you.
Often in the early days…there was no allowance for doing what was expected of you. It was anticipated. You did your homework so that you could earn a good grade and hear “Proud of you!” from your family. You helped around the home because you wanted to be a help to another person. You discussed your future with those whom you respected and often rather than not, secured a student loan for a higher education institute that provided what you were seeking at the best fees. Your selection was not based upon the status of the school itself and the inflated monies that went with their name. Yes, you can flunk out of the prestigious school just as easy as you can anywhere.


Then- You got a job so that you could save for your future; buy your first car and many of the other necessities of life. You paid your way. No free tickets. No one handed you anything except a diploma,well done, and a big pat on the back. This motivation and inspiration helped build your foundation of character. You learned by whatever example that was set before you – either to be responsible or expect others to carry you through life.


Now- The family unit has begun to deteriorate from the expectations placed upon shoulders too insecure to carry this responsibility. The family has bent the time previously invested in each other in various directions; kids raising themselves so that both parents can work to provide for the family what they feel will exhibit to society their success as parents and professionals. This 'trend in the bend' of making or being the exception to the golden rule, has already become dangerous. With every generation, every excuse, and every roll of the dice of decisions made, we gamble with the future of tomorrow’s value system. Making allowances for why and how long we can continue this is costly in many ways.


Are you paying your dues? Are you are missing the point when the word ‘dues’ is in place? It is not the actual due allowance itself that is the issue here but, the individual’s expectation of “being owed something just because.” Take a look at your self-worth and weigh the values you have for living a quality life and who you are as a person. How do they compare? Do what you need to when it is due.


Unexpected Change: No one ‘plans' for change…it just happens. Even now, you may see your success as hindered. Everyone, will at one time or another, approach this dreaded curve in the road. I once heard a comment: “We are all only one paycheck away from broke.” If you believe the lie that you are better than everyone else, you have taken a step of self deception and disillusion. There is always a bottom rung to the ladder you climbed to the top. Be sure you are able to accept change with each step taken in an opportunity. Make no allowances to cast blame for your errors or unworthy praises for your efforts. Look around you. What wall is your ladder leaning upon?


What are you worth?
In business - employment and personal relationships-
Who are you, really?

Business owner's with inflated egos often have an exaggerated view of their success. Like a peacock spreads it's feathers, they accept the awards for the efforts and prositive results put forth by their staff. A fair wage for a fair day’s labor is often lost in the politics of performance verses profit. The unrealistic expectations placed upon time goes unnoticed until the review is met with dissatisfaction. Never let anyone shine a dull light on you, your self-esteem and value. Always know your worth. Accept nothing less than your best. And know there are those who will surely see that and express their appreciation for your talents. Many companies have yet to see that the true value of an employee is seen in expressed gratitude and gratuity. You can't pay a debt with a 'thank you', now can you....lol


Same holds true in relationships. If someone has mistreated you and walked away, this is good. They have done you a favor. Never compromise your integrity for another. Congratulations to those who have survived these experiences and have washed the 'walk on you' footprints off their backs and moved on. They always say…what goes around comes around. And it is true: He who dies with the most toys- still dies. It is up to you what allowances you make or accept in how you are treated.

You are wealthy not because someone gives you wealth but because you earn it from the inside out.

You earn the right to be respected by others, by society, by your loved ones. You earn the right to make allowances in saying yes or no and knowing when to remain silent.

You have value not because someone pays you but rather because you have self worth.

You know you- your skills, your personality, your dreams, and your level of expectations of you. No one has the right to demand more of you or push you past that boundary.

You embrace the wisdom and strength to say ‘Good bye’ to a broken friendship, a broken love, or a broken opportunity. This gives you a new and fresh outlook on what is on the horizon for you. Hold dear those friends who are the exception to the rule, a found love which respects the rules, and a career that does not rule your personal life and relationships. Let go of who or what holds you beneath the surface of yourself.


Lifelong Interviews: From parents and loved ones; for a college entrance exam; then we do a resume’ for a job interview. And sometimes we even polish our personality for finding a significant other or a spouse. Some people miss the ‘personal' experience and even perform an interview for their ‘spiritual’ life with God. Yes, that is a lot of performing. It can be exhausting. Maybe it is time to resume the simplicity from those lessons of ‘becoming’ more with less.


Same but different - Our life is on that resume’ or a piece of paper, a list of who we are or what we've done successfully. Rarely do we include a list of our short comings. This is our test to move forward. In relationships we work hard to impress to get the date, to hear the yes to the proposal. This is for some, the ultimate interview for a life together.
Resume’ and resume. Spelled the same but different. One is about accomplishments while the other is about living. Let’s try to resume living and let the resume’ of our life reflect our accomplishments in family, friends, and our self worth. Taking ‘allowances’ with any of these areas will leave you emotionally, spiritually, mentally, and sometimes even physically broken.


So, here’s to your values- in who you are, who you are becoming…and to all you have been. Allow yourself to always be available to just BE. You are, after all, a human being…not a human doing!

Make and take some allowances...for and in life -


Now is the time…Yubw8n?

Sharpen the EDGE of your Abilities

How many edges
do you have in
your life;
your personality;
your views;
your decisions;
your
opportunities?




Ever say that you are 'feeling a little rough around the edges'
or that someone else is looking that way?

Ever been on the edge of a decision?

Ever been almost pushed over the edge of what you can tolerate?

Ever had someone to ‘edge you on’ to something that was before you?

Edges are often imagined as being ‘sharp’ in nature, but are they really?

Most likely you are on the edge of saying…yes.;o)

When you are not feeling well then you are not feeling at your sharpest.
When you are trying to decide something, the manner you process with is a sharp vision of the answer.

And finally, when someone is annoying you, they are dull-definitely not sharp.

So, are you seeing a trend here yet?
Yep, you are pretty sharp. (Sorry...that just kinda cut right in there, eh;o)

Seriously though, let’s stand on the edge of another thought for just a moment, okay.

Sometimes, we need to realize that just because someone gives us something does not mean we have to accept it! What does this look like exactly? Here are some areas we encounter that often we never asked for and may not understand completely until we look at them from different angles:

Attitude
Advice
Anger
Encouragement
Judgment
Opinion
Warning

So when you see a defined line do you view it as a boundary or an opportunity? Exactly- The edge of what we view is dependent upon our perspective. For example
Advice may be viewed as judgment.
Encouragement heard as advice.
Attitude delivered as anger.
Warning heard as an opinion.

Where you are standing when you are approached by these ‘edges’ determines how you view them. Your determination to see clearly is up to you. How sharp are your skills when accepting options in life?
What does all this have to do with edges? Well, let's look at a knife blade for an example and how it relates to skill, viewpoints, opportunities, and discipline.

Knowledge is like a knife that cuts to the core of our ability. How we access our ability is determined by how sharp the edge of the blade remains. Resistance and abrasiveness in life is what the wet stone is to the blade and what best sharpens our edge of tactics and tenacity.

However, don’t stand idly by ~ waiting and whining ~ you’ll cut yourself on your own complacency. Sometimes you have to get out of your own way.

Finally, the edge on the "knife of knowledge" requires constant sharpening. As you sharpen your character, take a moment to appreciate the 'edge' that is uniquely you. It is by looking at it from all angles that you become more aware of the opportunities life presents to you. So- Yubw8n?

"Shine On Purpose"

Candles are pretty~ yet useless until they are given the
opportunity to do what they were created to do.

Often we buy candles because of how they look and smell. True, they come in unique sizes, designs, and fragrances, yet how many candles have you purchased that you‘ve never lit?

Was this your original intention?
I doubt it.
But what has prevented you from lighting them?

Maybe you have a few put away or they are on display on a table somewhere in your office or home. Even though they look nice, they have not discovered how to be all they were designed to be.

A candle is a work of art and there is a specific combination of elements that when brought to life, bring joy to its owner.
This is also the ‘soul’s-purpose’ in the beginning…
You and I are a lot like the candle. Think about it:

We place ourselves in a situation where we think we belong but we are not living our potential.

We give ourselves to someone who does not really appreciate who we are, what we bring to the relationship, and the uniqueness of our abilities. And often, we justify this, and become covered in a dust of disillusion the longer we sit silent - with our gifts never appreciated. We have now compromised our character.

In the beginning~
We are held gently, respectfully and admiringly in the hands of One who knows us and our abilities to make a difference in our surroundings. He creates in us and enlightens us to be all we are. In His plan, He knows the circumstances around us. With His help,the fear is removed that held prisoner our potential. Then the wick which was placed with prayerful precision in the core of our being is ignited with energy, excitement, and enhanced anticipation.

We are now living our purpose!

The fire dances upon the wick and begins to melt away or disrobe the fragranced attire that it wears. Without pomp or circumstance, the space surrounding the candle is bathed in its fragrance. Look at that small flame on a string as it melts a crayon like substance and provides pleasure, light and warmth to the senses. It does so intentionally. For without the fire, the burn of purpose, it is just another pretty item on the table. The candle ‘gives away its inner most gifts'- warmth, light, fragrance-the soul's reason it was designed in the first place.

We were given the Gift so that we may become like the Gift!

God creates each of us to live our lives with and on purpose. Acknowledge those inner gifts meant to be a blessing to others. Don't put them on a shelf only to be seen by few and never appreciated at their fullest. For only when we remove our fears and have God illuminate our dreams with determination, will we begin to be all we are. You see, the candle does not fear the flame, but welcomes it. For the flame is what melts the heart of the candle and sets free the fragrance of its soul.

So, ask yourself~

Where is that flame in your life- the spark that ignites your dreams-the desire that burns in you to become all you can be? Rediscover the candles of living. Dust them off. Remove whatever it is that seals in who you are. Light the core of your being that faithfully awaits the opportunity to burn. Then, inhale the blessings that are blended with the foundation of your faith.

When you live your life on and for the purpose you were created, you will become a pleasant fragrance and light in the world around you. When someone is in your presence, be a joy to their life. Make and be the difference they seek and always encourage others to be and do the same.

Each life created was paid for with another’s.
(Did you catch that? If not, re-read that last statement)
AND-
Each candle is created especially for that moment it accepts the fire that will burn within.
You, yes you... are intimately known and designed for a beautiful purpose.

Shine brightly 'On Purpose' as you reflect The Light!

And finally---take the time to appreciate another's gifts....
Life is but a flicker, a flame...and in this one life you are given, ask yourself-

'Yubw8n'

~Breath in and appreciate the beauty and fragrances that embrace you~

Realizing "It" Matters

It's the little things in life that matter. The snuggle of a kitten on a cool evening. The look of appreciation from a puppy as you hold him on the way home from the vet. And the happiness you feel when you share moments with those 'humans' in life that matter to you.

We get busy. Sometimes too busy. And in that hurry-up & wait mentality, we miss it. What is "IT"?

It may be the deep breath we take first thing in the morning followed by a long stretch of our body and the instant opening of our eyes to a new day. Or that one of a kind snow flake that floats -seemingly without destination- to the ground on that first late autumn flurry.

Why do we let these little things of joy pass us by? I remember as a child growing up in WV the times shared playing tag football on Sunday afternoon with my friends. Running to the back door, screen slapping shut behind us, and grabbing a cold glass of lemonade that Mom had prepared for us to cool down before supper. (Yeah, we called it supper) And later, after saying good bye to the friends, wash up, help with chores, and then family time. These are moments that I hold dear and recall at moments even I least expect.

Now as an adult, I watch the 'kids of today' going in different directions (not all of them good ones either) as they try to 'make a statement' about their generation. What memories are they creating for their lives? Is it me or is their concern for their ultimate destination lessening with each year as they barely get by? What morales are they really being taught to build upon? Sad yet true.

I hope that after you are done reading this, you will stop and close your eyes for just a brief second. Go back through the pages of your life and find a chapter that brings a smile to your lips, a tear to your eye, or a giggle to your belly. Do this whenever stress is stepping on your attitude, kicking you in the 'butt, that is just the way it is' excuses, and you are feeling less than. You matter.

Now, hold it. Hold it. Just one more minute. Ah, there you go. You have now successfully replaced a moment in what you had titled a 'bad day' with a memory that matters to you... now you are starting fresh from this moment on.

These little things that matter- matter. Be sure to share a memory with your loved one, your children, your pet. Make time to visit a Senior Adult and listen to their chapters of life. Enlightening moments of a time gone by.

Remember~Give love and watch that love return to you.
NEVER BE AFRAID TO:
Smile More.
Laugh More.
Love More.
Be More.

You know what's coming next right.....
Have a Blessed day...One Moment At A Time.
So~
Yubw8n? (Why You Be Waitin?)


Promo2motion LLC ©2011sedawson Promo2motion.com

Shining the Light Through the Cracks

Denial of Cracked Foundations

“To build relationships w/those who have cracks in the foundation of their personality is useless.Their denial causes decay"
"Secrets usually scream in despair when confined to forced efforts of silence!" ©2011sedawson

This may help shed some additional light on what was the background meaning of these quotes.

It appears that more & more these days, there are those who need to have affirmations that their cracks are not a big deal & in some cases believe these are someone else's responsibility to fill. Once you help them see that there are benefits from growth & honesty, & maybe the crack is filled- How many times do you stand there & watch them chip out the mortar that was just completed to seek out another opportunity for having you or another person help them yet AGAIN? This is abusing a friendship etc. While one is busy assisting to build the self esteem of someone who ~for lack of a better statement…'think it ok to depend upon others to fix them'…you are enabling them to pass the buck on their responsibility for growth. Both people are now also missing some of the blessings that are discovered in spending less time taking on another's personal growth, when in doing all that building is in reality tearing each person down…one good intention at a time.

Anyhow, there comes a time in those relationships/friendships that you just got to know when to say…good-bye. And build on what you learn from having been there…knowing when it best to walk away. No one has the right to tell you when that is…or why…It is something that is found in prayerfully understanding the verse: 'for everything there is a season' We are not losing 'a relationship/friendship' as much as we are gaining insight to spiritual & overall wellbeing. Just a thought- we can learn from our experiences or we can be destined to repeat those miscalculations in knowing what is healthy or not.

As many of us already know this is more about knowing when to say 'No' because we now 'KNOW' that these are not relationships that are edifying to anyone. While we spend / waste time with those who are determined to tear other people down (…even so slightly)…we will miss the opportunity to share time with others we can build up. I have known people in my life who, I believe that by observing their actions (which are louder than their words) ~they truly must see relationships/friendships as a commodity for their benefit (Example: they don’t communicate unless they have a need from someone that merits that action-the 'It's all about me' illness) Yet, I have also observed that they usually have something going on in their life that for some reason they think no one knows about or would suspect if communication is eliminated. Those who are experts at this skill may never see that foolishness in thinking in this manner only confirms the suspicions & eventually connects confirmations.

It is very freeing to ‘let go’ of the rope that holds you up, which is also hindering your feet to touch the ground of reality; therefore stopping you from moving forward. Those who are reading this sentence right now probably know of people they are unwittingly permitting to hold that rope of relationship responsibility around their neck. While we have a tendency to find a level of compromise in comfort regarding our own dissatisfaction with where we are- spiritually, emotionally, physically, mentally…freedom from frustration is mostly found in knowing what we need, when we need it, and being willing to seek the answers to those questions while we are on our 'knees'.

*True, God sometimes uses cracked pots, but we don't have to always
CARRY THESE CRACKED POTS around in support of their issues…When we lift one another up in love, we have truly 'turned a corner' in our personal growth.
Shine the Light ....
If you are not making a difference in the life & heart of another for the good...
ask yourself...YUBW8N?


©2011sedawson
Promo2motion LLC
Promo2motion.com