Beautiful Message About Anger from a Well-respected Writer and Teacher

Anger A few mornings ago, I read a story from the book of Numbers in the Bible and saw something I hadn't noticed before. After Moses leads the people out of Egypt, his sister, Miriam, and his brother, Aaron, start grumbling to others about Moses because he married a woman who isn't an Israelite.   When the two siblings complain to God, however, they don't mention that fact. Instead, they ask, "Has the Lord spoken only through Moses? Hasn't he spoken through us too?" (Exodus 12:1).    As I read, I saw two things. First, they're upset because he married outside their culture. Second, they cry out, "Is our brother the only one to whom God speaks?"   That is, they don't face the real issue—their anger toward their brother. They disguise it and take what probably appears a safe way. "We're leaders. We deserve respect just as much as Moses."  It reminds me of the many times we can't face what truly angers us so we disguise it (unconsciously) and it erupts in a safer place. My father-in-law was an admired man at his job, at the church, and in his community. But when he was home, his wife heard all his groanings and complaints.   Why at home? Possibly because his wife was a safe place for him to vent. It wouldn't hurt his reputation. He wouldn't have to stand up and face the people he resented. You get the idea. We all do it.  In 2008, I became enraged over a situation and conveniently vented among a small group. Ben said, "Why are you spewing out your anger here? We're not your target."   That was a powerful insight for me. From that, I wrote this maxim: I'm seldom angry about what I think I'm angry about.   Since then, when I become upset, I try to dig out the real reason for my anger. You might try it too. www.cecilmurphey.com

On Being Authentically, Uniquely You

Text Conversation I just had with my baby girl (she’s 18 ya’ll)

Me: (A lady) we both know asked about you today. She said you have a beautiful spirit. I was thinking, “Yeah, I used to be like that before I started getting hurt by so many fakes.” But I said, “Yeah? She is—she’s like that most of the time too. I’ll tell her you asked about her.”

My daughter: "Awwwwww! Thank you." Tell her I said, “Thank you!”

Me: I will.

My daughter: You’re still sweet. And people have hurt me too unfortunately (Sad face). The world doesn’t know how to treat kind spirits like you and me (another sad face). 

Me: Yep. That sucks! I heard Rick Warren say God never wastes a hurt. Instead of turning evil; you can overpower evil with good. Awwww! Thanks. I’m still sweet? Oh. I forgot to tell you that I saw another lady in passing the other day. You remember; she was our neighbor. She said the same thing—that you have a really sweet spirit. Sure did.

My daughter: Awwwww! (multiple smiley faces)

Me: Jesus’ own people hurt  and rejected Him. He has a sweet spirit also (whole heart).

My daughter: Yea, that’s true. Awwwww (multiple hearts) (multiple smiley faces). I don’t talk to people at my school . . . I stay to myself like (images of a person, books) Lol. At least you socialize with people. 

Me: I try. . .trying to be led by the Holy Spirit I guess. You can’t talk to everyone, and everyone is not your friend. Let God lead you. But yeah . . .don’t let life and ignorant, dumb, stupid people make you bitter. Rise above it and be unique in Christ. Guard your heart.  Misery loves company.

Randomness: Pros and Cons of Dying Natural Hair by Nap85

I was actually considering dying my hair a more reddish color, but I'm not sure. I really don't want the damage though, and I do like to keep it dark. Maybe I'll get slight highlights again or maybe I'll simply keep it dark brown. Who knows? Anyhoo, this video is really informative, and I hope it will help any naturalista looking for more information about dying natural hair.

Randomness: Cute couple, great advice, insightful videos

OMG! Perfect Winter Natural Hair Mask! Thanks Laila!

Remember,  the Bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar can be used as a facial mask as well. Do try! You won't be disappointed!

How to Overcome a Wave of Rejection

Recently I got hit hard with rejection, and as a result, I began to doubt everything I was doing. I was thrown into total confusion, so much so, that it kept me awake at night. I didn't know what I wanted, and I couldn't move forward with my plans. It was crazy, and it was all my fault. I began to share my dreams, goals, and plans with certain people I believed would instantly support me. I was wrong, and then I became so overwhelmed by their negative reaction, I didn't want to move forward with my plans.


However, as I went about doing my daily activities the weeks that followed, I sensed a small voice urging me, "Don't give up!" When the nagging voice became louder and louder, I realized it must be God's voice telling me to keep my dreams alive.


I listened, and I continued to write and edit. I continued to complete a book project I started. I continued writing down my plans for 2015. I couldn't believe how hard it was. . .to get over a hurdle of self doubt that crept in from people I truly admired. I asked myself, "Why did you allow them to slow your progress? What happened?"


I told my daughter what happened, and she gave me even more confirmation. She said, "Why are you looking for others to approve of something you believe God told you to do. Just do it! Look to Him to help you." I was like, "Did you just say that?"  Wow.


The moral of the story is, even if you have someone on your side, someone you always look to for approval and advice. If they do not approve of something you know is right for you, keep it moving respectfully. Keep going with what you know is right for you. That doesn't mean you don't respect them or their advice. You just have to stay on track with what you know in your heart is right. I'm not saying you shouldn't listen to anyone or get advice or help from anyone, just do not ignore the small voice deep inside of you. If something someone says disagrees with that voice, you have to ignore that and go with the small voice. That voice is God nudging you to take a certain path that is designed specifically for you. Many people may not understand it, and that's okay. Refuse to allow anyone to rain on your internal parade.


Tee

Happy Monday!

From playing around with my daughter, to being Foxy Brown, to just being me at work. . .all I have to say is . . .you gotta make the most of the work week.  It's Monday again ya'll. . .enjoy!