Who are you? Part II

I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; 

and that my soul knoweth right well.

Psalms 139: 14 (KJV)

Today is Saturday, March 10, 2017 - We are literally into the third month of 2017 and what an interesting three months it has been! We have said farewell to one of the classiest, most intelligent and gentle Presidents of all time - President Barack Obama.  We have inaugurated someone that has caused many people to take off their veils to reveal the ugliness that lurks in their souls - that is all I will say. Women around the world are waking up to the fact that there are dangers to complacency in regards to women's rights and so on.  My blogs are to inspire...so back to our regular programming.


I have been thinking quite a bit lately about self-confidence or the lack thereof.  Self-confidence is awareness and belief in your personal judgment, abilities, skills, power, etc.  In recent months, my self-confidence has diminished.  After a conversation with my life coach (yes, I have one and if you would like to contact her - email me - she's great!), I realize that my self-confidence has taken a beaten in the past few months.  Understand that by nature and virtue, I am a winner! If I make up my mind to do something, I achieve my goal.  I will achieve the goals that I have set personally, professionally and within the scope of my businesses.  That being said, my actions/reactions of late are not reflective of that mindset. Which leads to the question what can I do to get back on track? I am being very transparent here because I believe this will help somebody.

So how can you rediscover your self-confidence?

• Hire/Find a life coach - this should be someone you believe in and someone willing to get in your face with reality.  Call them an accountability partner.  This person will call you on your crap and help you understand the obstacles/personal hindrances to obtaining your life goals. Try here  - (www.reallifehelpers.com) or call 615.307.0786.
• Daily Affirmations - Practice daily affirmations.  Place post-it notes on the bathroom mirror,  in the car, type them in a revolving marquee setting on the computer wallpaper and READ at every opportunity.  Read it and say it until is etched into your soul. A good place to start is here... (http://www.louisehay.com/affirmations/)
• Me-Time - This is required! Sometimes you are so busy being everything to everybody until you forget who you are and that your dreams and desires are important, too.  So take some time to get a shampoo/wash/cut, get manicure/pedicure, go window shopping, take a drive or walk, do something that you want to do.  If you do not want to leave home, take a long hot soak and read a good book. Learn a new craft - do something for YOU.  
• Dress-Up - Dress the part! Look like the success story that you are.  If you do not have a penny in your pocket, you can still look like you are priceless.  Put on that suit or dress. Accessorize - (parazziaccessories.com/65484/ - visit my site for accessories that are only $5 😍 ) - yes, I just plugged my business! But put on those earrings, necklace, tie or whatever that makes your outfit pop and walk with your head up! Do this even if you are just going to Wal-Mart.  
• Introduce yourself - Yes, go out and meet people.  This says to a person that you believe in yourself (even if you are shaky on that point) and that you are someone they need to know. Smile and say "Hello."

This is a day-by-day process. Take a note from Nike, "Just do it!" Watch how your outlook on life changes.  Remember, you are not alone on this journey called life, but sometimes you have to be your own cheerleader and say - "I am a Winner!" Then - believe it! Be happy, be blessed!

Who are you?

I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. Psalm 139: 14 (KJV)

I am on a journey back to me.  I know, I know...I should know who I am by now, but the reality of that is - I do not know who I am - really! Recently, I have given much thought to this question because I found myself trying to fit into a box meeting the constraints of "whom" others say that I am or who I should be.  The problem with this is, these people do not know who I am.  They cannot know because, in order to know who I am, they have to know who my spirit man is. In order to identify another's spirit man, you have to know who YOU are in the spirit and at this point in time, many are not concerned about their spiritual identity.  They are giving lip service to Christianity, but are failing to fulfill their need to relate with The Father.

But, I am there. I want to be a more effective vessel for God.  I want to be a walking billboard which says "I know a Someone who loves you in spite of everything you have ever done or imagined, let me introduce you to Him." In order for me to be that billboard, I am revisiting the question of "who are you?" Susan has gotten lost in being the wife, mother, teacher, entrepreneur, student, sister, aunt, caregiver, friend, etc.  So I am going to do my first work over again.  I am going to rediscover me and who I am in my Father's eyes.

I started with this devotional article found on http://www.todayschristianwoman.com - "Need a Confidence Boost?".  So today I take the first step - I am replacing my misconceptions of me with truths that are presented in God's Word. Using the article as a foundation, I will spend time with the following affirmations and scriptural proof of who I am in Him:

• 
  
• I am:
• Fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14)
• Precious to God (Isaiah 43:4)
• Cared about since my conception (Isaiah 46:3)
• God's child (John 1:12)
• Jesus' friend (John 15:15)
• Chosen by Jesus (John 15:16)
• Loved dearly by God (John 16:27)
• Free from condemnation (Romans 8:1)
• A temple—a dwelling place—of God's Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16)
• Redeemed and forgiven of all my sins (Colossians 1:14)

The author ends this study with the following quote about God's generic description of Eve - "All he tells us about her in Genesis 1:27, 31 is that she was made in his image and it was very good!" So, I am inserting my physical strengths, weaknesses and character flaws in a descriptive sentence of who I think I am and ending it with "I am made in the image of God and He says that I am all of that and more!" Stay tuned for the make-over!

Wallace, Verla. "Need a Confidence Boost?" Today's Christian Woman. N.p., 01 May 2000. Web. 14 Dec. 2016.

A Tribute...

We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.

2 Corinthians 5: 8

Mothers are our special gifts from God. They carry us in their bodies, rock us on their knees, nurture and care for us and protect us with every part of their being.  They usher us into adulthood with tears in their eyes and pride in their hearts.  For those that are called Home early, they still left their imprint on the lives of their children.

As a mother, I am blessed to have witnessed my son reach natural adulthood and I am excited about what God has ordained for his future.  I am blessed as a daughter to have had my mom for 39 years of my life and I cherish the legacy she left with me...

But today, I celebrate the life of a woman that I never had the opportunity to meet.  Mrs. Patricia Faucett Gonzalez is my mother-in-law.  I married her son 6 years and 3 months ago.  She went to be with the Lord 33 years ago today, two days after her 40th birthday.   Ms. Pat left a legacy through her husband and 4 children - Anthony, Patrick, Deatra and Kenneth.  She loved her children...how do I know this?  Even today, the love is evident in all the memories her family and friends share of her.  She touched and impacted many lives in her 40 short years here on Earth.  Her children like the rest of us have stumbled and tripped in life, but her prayers and words of wisdom were planted and continue to sustain them.  So today, they still overcome - they get up and try again.  Her love for cooking  - which is a love language among Southern-born mothers - is evident.  All of her children, even Kenneth who was very young at her passing, have her gift for creating dishes full of love and yumminess.  She was outgoing and made many friends throughout her life and they still share her memories with her family.  What a legacy to leave, Ms. Pat! I never met you here on Earth, but based on your testimony - We will meet in the spiritual realm.  Continue to rest in peace, Ma'am. 

So yesterday did not go so well...

"Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness."

Lamentations 3: 22-23 (NKJV)

No matter what yesterday's challenges were, today is a new day.  It is a day to start over, continue on the right path, change directions or any of the other opportunities we have to correct what we did wrong or what did not go right yesterday. We are granted with new mercies.  

Do not look back...the past is gone! Live and enjoy today.  Be kind to someone...smile or just treat someone to lunch or coffee unexpectedly.  Seems simple huh?  Sometimes the simplest things can turn around the ill effects of yesterday.  God grants us new mercies EVERY DAY! As long as we live, as long as we breathe, we have the opportunity to move in a new direction, change our attitude, help somebody, start a business, go back to school...get the point? Our Father is a God of many chances...take advantage of His grace and mercy today.

The woman at the well took her opportunity...The adulteress took her opportunity and Jesus cleaned the slate with five words "Go and sin no more!"...even Saul became Paul...what are you waiting on? Salvation is waiting on YOU - that is the first order of business! Forgiveness is there, just receive it! Don't forget to forgive yourself while you are at it! Ask God to guide you in the walk He has purposed for your life. Then watch Him bless you! Then watch it manifest in your natural walk...Returning to school - go ahead and register! Business opportunities have your name written all over them! That new job...it's waiting!  Go for it! Go in faith, believing that what God has for you...it is for YOU! Make it a great day, be blessed!

When will I Iearn...

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8: 28

I truly believe in sowing into the lives of others.  When my friends have businesses, I do my best to help them if my circumstances permit.  The thought behind that is one's freedom from want does not come from working for someone else, it comes from working for yourself.  It's a philosophy that we should teach our children.  

Lately, my frustration has been rooted in my sowing into an infertile ground.  People who pretend that they desire better, but their actions do not match their words.  I believe what I am told until proven wrong.   Maybe they are just slow to act, or life happens, I get that.  I suppose I think people were taught the values that my parents deeply instilled in me.  IF you are not going to do something that you committed to, acknowledge that with a phone call, email or (I do not oppose) a text. Values and mutual respect are becoming things of the past...OK, #rantover.

God has a purpose in this, even if I cannot see it yet. My blessings are pre-ordained and about to overtake me...I am the victor, not the victim. Let's make it a great day!

New Day...New Mercies

"It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23 (KJV)

So yesterday did not go so great! I became frustrated with my husband and somewhat irritated at my son.  The source of that irritation was not directly contributory to either of them.  They were just convenient.  I did not act out on my frustration. I felt it though and I forgot to "cast my cares on Jesus." I internalized all the emotions and did not find an outlet. That's not healthy for me or anyone...

BUT today is a new day.  A chance for me to start anew.  I have breath in my body, so I get a do-over. God is faithful to allow us do-overs. Some say he is God of second chances, but many of us have gotten even more do-overs than we can count. We go back and mess up time and time again.  We have to be thankful for Our Father of second chances and forgiveness.

 I want today to be a day that I can say, I got it right.  I do not want to waste my do-over.

An overcast Monday...

This Monday began like any other Monday. I prepared to head to work, prepared my mind to wind up my unit on Short Stories and administer an exam later in the week. I ticked off a list of to-do's as I was dressing.

I said my good-byes to my husband, brother and canine babies and out the door I went. I mentally checked to be sure that I had my purse, school bag, computer and cell phone - check. Then I called my son at his dorm - no answer. Okay, he is still asleep and does not have class until 10 AM. Then I texted him and requested that he respond to the text when he awakens...

Then I realized that I was going to be late for work, traffic is backed up. A trip that takes me exactly 12 minutes, took me 30 minutes...no accidents, no policeman, just Sunday drivers on a Monday. My cell phone rang just before I make my arrival on campus and it was my hubby. His medical transportation did not bring a van with adequate equipment to handle his Hoveround...really? This is an emergency appointment and not his regular appointment. He is having some symptoms that we are very concerned about and he says, "Oh, I'll just reschedule it." This is stated in a nonchalant manner. Do you know how long it takes to get a doctor's appointment in Shreveport, Louisiana - FOREVER! My stress level has increased exponentially.

Back to my son...I received my response as requested in the form of a texted "?" - Really? Mind you, my son has been suffering with a severe sinus infection and working through it. He goes to work at Red Lobster then medicates himself at night. Yes, I am a concerned mama and his response is a blasted question mark...Stress level doubled.

I get to my classroom door and pull out my lanyard - NO KEY! (I need to go back to bed at this point.) The key is always on my lanyard! I finally just dove into the bottom of my big red school bag and searched until I found the key at the very bottom underneath ungraded papers, books, receipts, etc. (Remember it's not 8 AM yet!)...this day has to get better...

Today is a new day...

The title of today's blog is a refrain that is sung every morning at my school. The lyrics to the song begin..."Today is a new day, a new chance, a new start..." I try to embrace that even more now that I am facing a lifelong battle with sarcoidosis. I was diagnosed in October and it has been and is an uphill battle right now. I have come to terms with the fact that I will live with this condition, but I am determined that I will live symptom free as much as is within my power.

I began oral chemotherapy - Imuran last week. My doctor prescribed this to counteract the effects of prednisone which I have been on since November. The chemo makes me nauseated...the prednisone makes me swell and depressed. In the midst of all of this, I have to try to teach my students who are already behind. Add to this equation, insomnia and you have a volatile state of health and mind. I am trusting God to see me through this though. He has never left me nor forsaken me...so I will continue to tell myself daily...Today is a new day, a new chance, a new start and keep a positive outlook. Be blessed!

Christmas is in the air...

The students are wild and the teachers are ready to send them home to "Momma." This is a sure sign that it is time for the Christmas Break. I will not use the term "Winter Break" because I am not celebrating winter! I am celebrating "Christmas." That said...Jay put up our Christmas tree on Saturday. I am so proud of my son! It helped me begin "feeling" the Christmas spirit - I haven't gotten there totally, but I do have a Christmas cd playing in the car. No gifts have been purchased...Yet, everywhere I look I see evidence of the Season. The neighbors' yards are overflowing with Santas and sleighs and boughs of holly! At my house, we do not do the "Santa" thing. It is all "Joy to the World" and Nativity scenes. I call that "keeping it real." Of course, my son's "Santa" has never been traditional. His is a five foot tall, African American female and there is no way she will fit down a chimney! Hopefully, I will be full fledge into the Spirit of the Season before Decemeber 25th. Maybe if the Browns win Sunday, I will get a big boost!

I am thankful for 2007. I have lost loved ones and friends. I have had disappointments by the score. I am still here though and so far, I have survived. This year has been a year of character building and spiritual pruning. I suppose I will adopt the mantra for 2008 that I developed for 2007 - What's to come is better than what's been...my change will come. Be blessed

I am still here...by the Grace of God!

And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee. Psalm 39: 7

Hello to all of my faithful friends! I haven't blogged for a while. Life has been hectic, but I am blessed, better than blessed! I shared a wonderful Thanksgiving break with my family...literally with my family. I was babysitter to no less than five children everyday of my break. I enjoyed every minute of it! I cooked a full breakfast everyday - pancakes, sausage, eggs, grits and I threw in cinnamon toast for fun. I was also responsible for lunch...in the midst of that, I (the youngest of the family) cooked a full Thanksgiving meal on my own. This was a first...I usually contribute a dish or my assistance. I was given the task all alone this year. I am thankful for the ability and health to do it. I am thankful for being tired after my break. I am thankful for a family to be there for...I am thankful for all things - large, small, good and bad. I am thankful for you...Be blessed!

So much to be thankful for....

Luke 23: 4
4 Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no fault in this man.

As the Thanksgiving Holidays approach, I think about Jesus' ultimate sacrifice. He gave His life for me - a wretch undone, unworthy from birth! Not just me, but for "all" -

Being or representing the entire or total number, amount, or quantity:
Constituting, being, or representing the total extent or the whole:
Being the utmost possible of:
Every:
Any whatsoever: beyond all doubt. (www.dictionary.com)

He did not leave out a soul regardless of race, creed, color, etc. and there was no fault in Him! He never did any wrong. Even Pilate was forced to admit that there was no fault in Him. He could have said - "Okay, Father, I'll go up on the cross, but only for so-and-so..." Some of us would get rid of famly members we do not agree with, church members who do not always go with the flow, people who have not attained the level of success we feel they should, etc...But He died and rose again for us all! Even those of us who have been washed in His blood had to be washed because we were not blameless. Even if our sins were not in "deed", they were in attitude, disobedience, mistreatment of our brothers/sisters, etc. He was "Not Guilty", but received your and my death sentence...and He did not grumble, mumble or pout. He did not insist on His innocence, nor did He protest the undeserved punishment. He willingly stretched out His arms and died, so that we would not have to...for our sins, not His. He gave us the gift of eternal life that we can take or leave freely. I pray for those who do not accept His precious gift. I am glad that He loves me that much. He loves you, too...It is already done! Receive the love of Jesus...When you do not feel good enough in people's eyes, remember you are good enough in Jesus' eyes! Be blessed and be thankful!

T. G. I. F.

Psalm 34:8 O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.

It is FRIDAY! We are all ready for the weekend. Most people got paid for all their wonderful efforts this week and are considering going out to eat, to a movie, etc. As you ponder these thoughts...think on the following:

Are you hungry...for love, peace, joy? You have been to various buffets seeking these three very important, yet missing items - the buffets come in the form of men, women, jobs, alcohol, drugs, etc...but you are still hungry? I dare you to try Jesus. O taste and see...He is better than Coke! Like Campbell's soup, He's "hmmm, hmmm good!" He's "good 'til the last drop" and you will not need Alka-Seltzer when you sit at His table. Go ahead, try Him...I dare ya!

An end...or a new beginning...(Last Class Blog)

This is my last official assignment before the "Survey." I have enjoyed my journey through the Web 2.0 tools with all of my classmates. Many of you have shared your stress and frustrations, but you have also shared your knowledge and wonderful ideas for using wikis, blogs, podcasts, etc. Thank you for your humor and openness. Thank you for reminding me that I am not alone because in MS - we are all in this together!

Blogs and wikis will be a mainstay in my classes simply because they are condusive to Language Arts. This will permit my students to venture into areas of writing that are not traditional, and all along I can guide them and encourage the use of correct grammar and punctuation. I will use podcasts and videostreaming as my units permit. I will also use RSS and social bookmarking sites for research.

Don't forget to stop by my blog every now and then. I will keep this blog as a way to vent and share with my friends and fellow teachers. This has been wonderful therapy! I look forward to hearing from you all every now and then. I can't wait to see what comes out on the web next...Be encouraged and be blessed!

I am still here...

And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee.
Psalm 39: 7

Hello to all of my friends. I have been blessed with a good job that I absolutely love, a new home within walking distance of my job (gas saver!) and wonderful new friends. My mom is out of the hospital and recuperating at home. She is in good spirits and feeling better. I am still unpacking, but without complaint. My son and I love our new home. I am striving to continue in the walk God has placed before me. By His grace, I am encouraged to continue on my journey. The road is rocky and curvy sometimes, but I know "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." For those who are facing tough times, remember to keep your eyes on God, trust in Him and He will see us through! Be thankful today and be blessed!

That's what friends (& family) are for...

Proverbs 17: 17 reads:

A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity .

I have pondered over this scripture often. The first part is really self-explanatory. Most of us have friends who love us in spite of our shortcomings. When we are down and out, depressed - we call our friends. But what happens when the friend tires of answering the phone at 2 AM or taking you to the grocery store when your car is down...The second portion of this scripture states that "a brother is born for adversity." Adversity is defined as "a state of hardship or affliction; misfortune; a calamitous event." We are assigned to our biological brothers and sisters, as well as our spiritual siblings, to come to their rescue. Hmm...We were born for that purpose according to that scripture. We are to assume the role of rescuer when our "brothers and sisters" are in trouble. How many times have said-"I feel sorry for so and so..." but never made the effort to see what "I" could do? We call them our brothers and sisters. Our purpose has been given. Have you checked on your natural and spiritual siblings today?

I am having fun with Wendy's!

Hello everyone!

I needed to do something fun today, so I stumbled onto the Wendy's site and decided to join the march for Hot Juicy Burgers. Please visit me there and vote for me.

http://www.hotjuicyburger.com/Suzee


I think all teachers deserve Hot Juicy Burgers (and more) for cultivating the doctors, lawyers, graphic artists, etc. of tomorrow! Be encouraged - It's Hump Day!

Obedience is better than sacrifice.

Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations; Deuteronomy 7:9
Hello all! I want to encourage everyone to enjoy each and every day of your life. Remember that God loves us all. He is faithful and keeps every one of His promises. We also must keep our promises and walk in obedience to His Word. We are given the promise, a plan, challenged with the process and ordained to fullfill His purpose. Trust in Him and acknowledge Him in all that you do! I am encouraged to stay on the journey He has ordained for me...Be blessed!

What's to come...

Greetings to all! Today, I have had to revisit my motto -"What's to come is better than what's been..." I have had to revisit it many times in the past couple of weeks. The enemy often attacks us through the people we care about the most and recently I have been under attack in the area of relationships. I lost my youngest brother - 39 yrs of age - to pancreatitis on July 30, 2007. This was really rough because we were born 11 months apart and for years we were together like twins! Today - due to circumstances beyond our control - my marriage to my sweetheart has been postponed indefinitely. Yes, I have cried and felt sorry for myself. I have also felt like using some ugly words that I have never used. I have also felt like wrapping my hands around some necks and slowly wringing them. In the midst of all, I had to realize that this is just a test...and none of this is about ME! I am not here for "my" or any other human's -not mother, father, sister, brother, child, etc.-purpose. I am called to God's purpose. I am His vessel. It is not about what I want. It is about "Jesus" and Him being crucified, dying and rising again! So what - if I feel old and really want to be married and really want to have another child - SO WHAT!...I am God's vessel, here to do a work. I have a calling that I must fulfill. We all have different physical, psychological and emotional make-ups in order to fulfill God's purpose for our lives and God has to prune and shape us to prepare us for our work. It is not about "US"! I am a member of the "royal priesthood". I have been "picked out to be picked on"! BUT in the midst of this revelation, God has said "I accept you as you are, love who you are..." - your selfishness, brokeness, bitterness and all. When He gets through with me, I will be what He has called me to be. I hope that we all can look inside ourselves, see our flaws and realize that God loves us anyway. The best is yet to be...Be blessed.

Tolerating and appreciating diversity...

Sometimes in this wonderful world, we need to remember that God did not make us all alike for a reason. It takes many different personalities, ethnicities, physical make-ups, etc. to make this world go around...I am glad God made you just like you are!

"BECAUSE" by TD Jakes

Just because no one has been fortunate enough to

realize what a gold mine you are,

Doesn't mean you shine any less.

Just because no one has been smart enough to figure out

that you can't be topped,

Doesn't stop you from being the best.

Just because no one has come along to share your life,

Doesn't mean that day isn't coming.

Just because no one has made this race worthwhile,

Doesn't give you permission to stop running.

Just because no one has realized how much of an

awesome woman you are,

Doesn't mean they can affect your femininity.

Just because no one has shown up who can love you on

your level, Doesn't mean you have to sink to theirs.

Just because you deserve the very best there is,

Doesn't mean that life is always fair.

Just because God is still preparing your king,

Doesn't mean that you're not already a Queen.

Just because your situation doesn't seem to be progressing

right now, Doesn't mean you need to change a thing.

Keep shining, keep running, Keep hoping, and keep praying,

Keep being exactly what you are already. COMPLETE!!

Have a blessed and safe weekend!

Courage can be defined as the state of mind or spirit that enables us to face danger and/or fear with self-possession, confidence, and resolution. But the Psalmist David admonished us to be of "good" courage. Good being the operative word meaning free from defect, decay or damage. Sound courage - do not waiver in your faith. In other words, DON'T GIVE UP. No matter what the situation looks like, do not give up on God. He promised to keep us and never leave us...remember, we can leave Him - but He will not leave us. As long as we keep our trust and faith in Him, He will bring us through.

I often think of the tunnel when I get down and out...disheartened. When one enters the tunnel, you move towards darkness - that darkness may be your job, family/life issues, etc. As you progress through the tunnel, it gets darker and in the middle of the tunnel there is generally no natural light. This is where you have to "visualize" the light at the end of the tunnel...you "know" it's there...you know that you are walking towards the light, even though it's really dark. Just keep walking towards the light...it's there...God promised.