REFLECTIONS

The Blogging from A to Z April Challenge has come to a close. In reflection it was an amazing experience. Each of my four blogs gained new subscribers, as well as increased activity within the comments sections, which is always a huge plus. This was the first year that I participated Faith Warrior, it's a more personal blog for me. Where the other blogs have a more specific focal point, here I can write about what is closer to my heart. This was the inspiration for the challenge - I tried to write about something that I considered important or true. I'm not sure what next years challenge will bring, if I should focus on a more defined theme or not. I did like writing about the different scriptures and pertaining to what was discussed for each letter. I might refine this more for next years challenge to stay true to the Faith Warrior title. The first year I participated in the challenge I focused on subscribing to the blogs that were on the blog hop, so that I could connect with other bloggers and work on my networking capabilities. This year, once I found bloggers that were actually participating (actively posting in coordination with the challenge) if I wasn't subscribed already, I made sure to connect via social media, and made sure to leave a comment as well. I feel like each year that I participate I learn something new. For instance, next year I plan to participate in the reveal; before the challenge actually starts you reveal the theme that your blog will be posting about. Also, withe the official Blogging from A to Z April Challenge Reflections; it's a blog hop (sign-up) and it's like the last little hurrah after the challenge to share in the experiences. Even though I didn't sign-up this year, I still posted my reflections and I plan on visiting the blogs in the hop too. Either way - it's a wonderful experience and I would highly recommend for any blogger/vlogger or what have you.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR PARTICIPATION

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE FOR FUTURE POSTS?

R is for Respect

Respect for the Runners

Luke 6:31 & Matthew 7:12

Today, if you haven't already heard, is the running of the 2014 Boston Marathon. While I am not a runner, I have much respect for those that pile in at the start line; who have trained with determination to get to where they are. I know of people and have family members that sign-up and run races. I see their determination to train and their will power to cross the finish line. I think it takes a lot for a person to race an entire race, no matter half marathon, full, or whatever they are competing in. 

"Give to everyone who asks of you, and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back. Treat others the same way you want them to treat you." Luke 6:30&31

Tragedy Strikes

(image captured via Google search)

April 15th, 2013 - most of us don't need reminding of the tragic events that were unveiled on this day in our history. Two terrorists tried to take away the American Spirit by attacking the 2013 Boston Marathon. According to Wiki "it was the 117th edition of the mass-participation marathon. Organized by the Boston Athletic Association, it was the second of the World Marathon Majors series to be held in 2013. Over 23,000 runners participated (Wikipedia, 2014).

"Fear is a very explosive emotion, but it has a short life span. It's the sprint. The marathon is hope." Mike Huckabee (BrainyQuotes, 2014)

Boston Strong

(image captured via
Google search)

What terrorists don't realize is that when they attack the American Spirit, they might knock US down, but we get up STRONGER. I have a tremendous amount of respect for the survivors participating in the race today. Talking to my cousin over the weekend who is from Massachusetts, she was informing me how many celebrities were also participating in this years Boston Marathon.

"I've run the Boston Marathon 6 times before. I think the best aspects of the marathon are the beautiful changes of the scenery along the route and the warmth of the people's support. I feel happier every time I enter this marathon." Haruki Murakami (BrainyQuotes, 2014)

Today, I am sure emotions will be strong. Many people are re-entering the competition that were there last year during the bombings that took place. I commend those that are running today, especially those that are persevering through their pain. I commend those that are running to prove the message of the American Spirit. I commend those that are running today. May God bless you as you cross the finish line.

Links

Boston Athletic Association Site

2013 Boston Marathon

Brainy Quotes - Marathon

Q is for Quiet

In our society we rarely take time to be still and listen. We are too busy rushing; rushing to get ready in the morning, to mass produce at work, and then to get one of the kids to practice and having to rush to pick-up the other child from somewhere else. Just to get home and rush to get homework done, rush to get dinner fixed, and the million other things that have to be completed before the sun rises the next morning and we start all over again. It's no wonder our society is so dependent upon caffeine and other addictive ways of keeping up with what is expectant of us.

"It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord." Lamentation 3:26

When was the last time you were quiet in prayer?

However, it is important to take time for ourselves; both mentally and physically. The other day, now that spring poked it's head out, I went and enjoyed a pedicure. Not that I had the money to do so, but I had received a gift certificate. I know a couple years ago, I dove deeply into devotionals because I was submerging myself within His word and studying life's instructions. If you seek foolish behavior, than foolishness will surely find you... make sure you do something that isn't stressful.

"A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back." Proverbs 29:11

"And to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you, so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one." 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12

When was the last time you did something just for yourself? 

Link

Open Bible Info

P is for Palidrome

Did You Know?

Happy Palindrome Week

Mind Blown

 

O is for Oligarchy

Is America Still Considered a Democracy?

Democracy is defined as a system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives (Google search). While America was founded on the premise of the democratic belief, there is now scientific data compiled that the U. S. is actually a Oligarchy. Oligarchy is defined as a small group of people having control of a country, organization, or institution (Google search). The scientific study comes from Princeton, the study explains the pain staking process that the researchers conducted, compiling data over years of research. I would implore you to read the article here. The argument is that America is no longer a Democracy, that we are now within the realm of "an oligarchy", the article further explains that "an oligarchy is a system where power is effectively wielded by a small number of individuals defined by their status called oligarchs. Members of the oligarchy are the rich, the well connected and the politically powerful, as well as particularly well placed individuals in institutions like banking and finance or the military" (McKay, 2014).

K is for Kites

April - National Kite Month

Having a birthday in April I have received trinkets and gifts associated to the month. Usually this involves a raincoat and umbrella, much like it's neighboring months of May and March, April proves to have the seasonal spring weather of rain and winds. So, it only seems natural that April would be associated with National Kite Month. According to the National Kite Month website, one of the first documented acknowledgments of kites was in 200 B.C.; the Han Dynasty would fly kites to measure distance. We learned in school how Benjamin Franklin flew a kite to experiment with electricity. And who doesn't know the lyrics to Mary Poppins "Let's Go Fly a Kite."

Kites With Kids and Safety

Making kites with kids is a great activity, there are so many great art crafts and creative ways to make a kite. Click here to discover and learn how to make kites. I would suggest promoting kids to think of what materials they would like to make their kite out of. It's a great opportunity to explore and experiment and they'll have fun trying different things too. This way they learn what works best and what doesn't work. Make sure to explain kite safety, to learn more about kite safety, click here.

J is for Jokes

Something I've grown up with and believe, is that not only is laughter the best medicine, but it keeps you SANE (or as close to sane as we can get these days). Laughter has healthy benefits for our body too. When we laugh our blood flows easier. Humor also may raise infection-fighting antibodies, boosting our immune system. It makes sense because when we laugh we relax our muscles, which is beneficial and helps against stress. So, there are proven health benefits. Let's share some jokes that will get us giggling, chuckling, and snorting with laughter to promote our well being...

Research Declares Funniest Joke

A woman gets on a bus with her baby. The bus driver says: "Ugh, that's the ugliest baby I've ever seen!' The woman walks to the rear of the bus and sits down, fuming. She says to a man next to her: 'The driver just insulted me!' The man says: 'You go up there and tell him off. Go on, I'll hold your monkey for you.'

Some of the Top 50 Jokes

Police arrested two kids yesterday

one was drinking batter acid

the other was eating fireworks

They charged one

and let the other one off

I went to the doctors the other day and I said, "Have you got anything for wind?"

So he gave me a kite.

A three-legged dog walks into a saloon in the Old West

He slides up to the bar and announces:

"I'm looking for the man who shot my paw"

Funny Jokes

Where do snowmen keep their money?

In snow banks

Did you hear about the angry pancake?

He just flipped!

What do you call a fake noodle?

Impasta

What do you get from a pampered cow?

Spoiled milk

Ellen's Classic Joke Wednesday

Links

Newslite - Top 50 Funniest Joke

Jokes4Us.com - Clean Jokes

WebMD

What's the funniest joke you've ever heard?

I is for Intuition

By definition intuition is the ability to have an understanding of something without the need for conscious reasoning. Basically, you just know. To me intuition is a combination of different things. It's taking everything that you have experienced and know and everything within you, such as genetic coding of evolutionary guidance. All of this merges within our soul to give us that knowing embrace of intuition.

"Often you have to rely on intuition" Bill Gates

"Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become." Steve Jobs

"The intellect has little to do on the road to discovery. There comes a leap in consciousness, call it intuition or what you will, the solution comes to you and you don't know how or why... the truly valuable thing is the intuition." Albert Einstein

H is for Hope

Dealing with daily chronic pain, hope can seem so far away at times. It can be aggravating when people, that do not know what you have to endure, say such things as "it'll get easier", "hope you feel better soon." The fact is, this pain will never go away. It's just learning how to deal with the pain that helps. But, we all have bad days (don't beat yourself up about it either).

When hope seems lost, it feels like you are drowning in a sea that is carrying you further and further away from shore. When I feel this way, the only proven cure has been reading passages in the Bible. Here are a few that I enjoy:

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you will be full with hope, through the power of the Holy Spirit.  Romans 15:13

Setting goals can help us feel the hope of tomorrow. By setting small goals it will give us the sense of accomplishment. When writing out what you want to achieve, or something you want in life, make sure to set those smaller goals before the bigger ones. This progression, cognitively, provides positive reinforcement toward living a fulfilling life. By setting goals you are an active participant, it's too easy to just expect life to turn out how you dram it will.

The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish.  Proverbs 10:28

Hope is living the changing seasons; through this tough winter we have hope that there will be a spring. Giving and believing in hope helps us to endure and cherish the life that we live. The pain I feel both physical and mental has contributed to my depression and thoughts of suicide. However, I hold onto my faith and hope for the day that I will no longer feel pain and God wipes away the tears (Revelations 21:4).

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.  Hebrews 11:1

Link

King James Bible Versus

G is for Grief

Everyone's Grieving Process is Different

I consider myself blessed that I did not experience a deep loss of death in my family until I was an adult. Growing up I remember being very sad about having to put a cherished family pet to sleep and overall I have always had an understanding about death. But what if you are unclear about death? How could that affect how you view the grieving process? Simple: you question it and the uncertainty could lead to further emotions of anxiety and anger (along with other feelings). I have never questioned my faith or what comes after this life. After the death of my son I find myself questioning everything. After reading about grief, I understand it is part of the grieving process.

Honor the Loss

Before Kaleb had passed I had set up a page where everyone that knows Kaleb or wanted to know what was going on with him could connect. After Kaleb's death it has transformed now into, not only part of my grieving process, but now a beacon of awareness. It's someplace where I can still honor his memory. Number 18 of Good Grief Center's tips for grieving states that working through the grieving process we should "consider reviewing memorabilia, photos, home movies, or videos." Kaleb's page is also a place of healing. Don't forget, it's o.k. and you should talk about your loss. Sometimes I hold so much inside, but I feel better once I talk-it-out and am able to process everything that I had been holding hostage. Also, if you are with someone who has lost a loved one, don't be afraid to talk to them about the individual. I feel like sometimes people might not speak Kaleb's name in fear of upsetting me. It's o.k. - honor their memories by talking about their life and share with one another, you never know...

Take Care of Yourself

Looking back on the past few months there is something that I would have changed. In my grieving process I neglected my physical wellness. I focused too much within my head, as an over-analyzer I often do this. After reading and researching about grief, all of the articles will tell you to take care of yourself. I had a friend who had told me that I should take walks, but I didn't listen (that and we had a hard winter); I do regret letting my health slip. Also, I am an emotional eater... put the two together and it has only complicated the grieving process. Within the Good Grief Center's tips, it also mentioned how "grieving puts a heavy burden of stress on your body" how sleep can be disturbed and lead to other illnesses such as depression, immune deficiencies, and other problems; "grief is not a disease but it can become one." Keep in mind that the process is not a determined amount of time either, grieving can affect you when you least expect it. Just the other day I received something from Kaleb's school teacher in the mail. It was something that was usually sent home on a daily basis when Kaleb was in school letting us know how his day was. It was unexpected and I broke down crying. Grieving does take it's toll; after breaking down I was exhausted. Give yourself time to grieve.

Grief Comes in Different Forms

Another tip that I just read that I might try, is to write a letter to whomever your grieving over. I know when my ex-husband left and I was grieving that loss, I had written a lot out - it helped my brain to process everything that was going on inside of me. You feel relief too because you've gotten it off of your chest. I'm going to do this for Kaleb. Because I wasn't with him when he passed, I feel like there is a missing puzzle piece. I know I am not responsible for his death, as his primary care giver because he was with his father for his allotted visitation, and I was not there - I do feel a sense of uncontrollable loss that I need to address. Then again, when is loosing a loved one controlled? Because I was Kaleb's primary care giver I was his advocate, he required 24/7 care, and we have always been praised for the care and love that we gave to our K-man. So, loosing him so unexpectedly has added to the grieving void.  I'm going to try writing him a letter and when I visit his grave I'll read it aloud.

Stay Healthy - Keep Positive

I think it is crucial that you DO NOT seek an 'escape' - DO NOT abuse alcohol or drugs in trying to mute the pain that you are feeling. I have tried to focus more on my writing during this process. A healthier option would be to cultivate your interests and hobbies, to occupy your mind for a duration of time. Recently I have returned to work. I had once worked at the school that Kaleb had attended, prior to his birth. In considering if I would be able to return there to work, I thought that I should be able to because I had worked there before Kaleb. Being there has been challenging emotionally, but more importantly I found that I feel him more there. It has reminded me how much I enjoy working with challenged children and how valuable I can be to their lives. While Kaleb was here, he not only blessed our lives, but we helped him through his journey here. Now, it's time that I help other children on their journey as well.

Links

Good Grief Center for Bereavement Support - 20 Tips

HelpGuide.org

WebMD Coping with Grief

F is for Faith

FAITH

A loose interpretation of Matthew 17:20 suggests that if we have the smallest of faith (as small as a mustard seed), we can move mountains "Nothing will be impossible for you."  By definition faith is a complete confidence or trust in something or someone. Like the video below demonstrates, as Christians we put our faith in Jesus, the son of God.

There have been plenty of times within my life that I have slipped, or thought I was slipping away from my faith. Not so. When I was mad at God after my son was born with special needs, he calmed my spirit and told me it's o.k.' it's o.k. to be mad at God. I transformed and he gave me the knowledge that He had been preparing me for my son, Kaleb. I had worked in the special education field for years before we were blessed with Kaleb; God was preparing me.

Since I was young I have battled suicidal thoughts. When I was 14 I attempted to take my life by swallowing some pills. To look back now, I was struggling with my life and the hardships that I was going through. If I could tell that girl something, I would tell her life is going to get much tougher and she would be amazed at the strength that she is capable of. What has always pulled me away from the vale of darkness, has been my faith in knowing God has better plans for my life. Also, in battling with these thoughts for so long now, I have realized that life is a gift from Him and I don't want to be disrespectful. I want to go to heaven, especially now more than ever, so that I can be reunited with Kaleb and my loved ones. When I think of ending it all, it has always been because I have lost sight of hope and feel consumed by hopelessness. It is faith that brightens the darkness; faith that I will get to heaven and have the ultimate experience to see Kaleb running around, laughing, and ultimately running up to me to give me a huge hug and telling me "I love you Mommy."

What does faith mean to you?

E is for Epilepsy

Stats and Experience

Epilepsy affects over 2 million in the U.S. (CDC)  and can be referred to as a seizure disorder. Seizures occur when there are disturbances in the brain; I like to think of it as if you were trying to hook up the connectors to jump-start a car battery. Our brain is a vast neuro-electric-pulsing machine that at times could spark and cause a seizure. There are many reasons why a person could have a seizure; reoccurring seizures are part of the definition of Epilepsy.

According to the Epilepsy Foundation, epilepsy is a  "condition which affects the nervous system." There are different types of seizures as well. My son Kaleb had epilepsy and suffered tonic seizures. Kaleb was diagnosed with Epilepsy after suffering severe dehydration, resulting in massive brain tissue loss, before he turned 2 years old. Kaleb was j-tube fed, not through his stomach, but through his jejunum. Because of this he was always nutrition sensitive. We were always concerned about keeping Kaleb hydrated. However, after his doctor's and nutritionist changed his formula, there were major complications that were severe and profound. As a result, never having seizures before, Kaleb was now diagnosed (adding to his other conditions) as having Epilepsy. His seizures would only last seconds, but there are seizures that last much longer within the spectrum and can have severe affects on the body. I have friends that are also diagnosed as having Epilepsy and you would never know. 

Me & K-man Summer 2013

Kaleb's seizures could be triggered by a number of things; a loud sound, lights, touch, heat, and sleep. When I was younger, I was once told that to interrupt a seizure, or seizure like activity, tap the person having a seizure on their nose (not too hard, just lightly). However, when I referred to this at Kaleb's Neurology appointment his doctor (who I never did like very much) informed me that the action would not stop a true seizure. Some say that the full moon will also increase seizure activity, although there are no scientific studies to suggest this is valid. But, I know from experience this to be true.  

His longest seizure was nearly 2 minutes long, he would get reddish in his face (most of the time this was due to him not breathing); not that he didn't always breath. He would draw his body in; meaning his body would stiffen and his arms would stretch out and then in toward one another. His legs would stretch and stiffen as well. Sometimes he would laugh during a seizure and sometimes when coming out of a seizure he would laugh, we referred to this as him "talking to the angels" or a "party seizure". Some seizures include other ticks, such as mouth and eye movements. As well, other seizures would cause Kaleb to become lethargic afterward and he would need to rest. 

While we do not know of what claimed Kaleb's life; his father and I are divorced and Kaleb had been with his father when Kaleb passed.  We still want to be beacons for people to understand his conditions, to spread the wealth of knowledge that we have obtained, and not only share his story but his love. 

To Learn More About Epilepsy, Click on the Links

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention - Epilepsy

Epilepsy Foundation

Mayo Clinic - Epilepsy

D is for Delusion

Delusional Thought Patterns and How We Can Change Them

I have battled with depression since I was very young. Depression is a mood disorder that according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), depression affects 1 in 10 adults in the U. S. alone. When I was hospitalized from my mood disorder, in my Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) sessions we learned about the connection between depression and delusional thought patterns. Depression can distort the way we think. My distortion was a result of how I processed information pertaining to my environment. 

Most girls growing up face some form of self image prospective and can lead into a delusional thought pattern, which could also lead into other conditions (i.e., eating disorders, self mutilation, etc.). When I was growing up my delusions started with my self-esteem. I would compare myself to other girls; friends, actresses, and models. This is a dangerous road and there is much more recognition for the manipulations involved in society and how the imagery affects girls and their mental development. For me, because I wasn't 'perfect' I didn't feel that I was anything to look at. The delusion continued until the distortion affected my brain and caused other issues, such as my social avoidance. 

A delusion is defined as a "belief held with strong conviction despite superior evidence to the contrary." It is also the "belief based on false or incomplete information, or other effects of perception." (Google search) When we believe something, it is hard to consider that what we think we know, is actually false information. Once we can accept this, we can move on and work on retraining our brain.

The activity that has worked the best for me is a version of positive thought retraining, based off of "The Glad Game" from Disney's Pollyanna. Here are some steps to work toward changing delusional thought patterns:

1.) Keep a journal. This is something that you can take to a therapist and they can read or collect the data to help you determine different thought patterns. Don't feel ashamed or threatened by what you write or showing it to a professional. Seek help! They are trained to help you through this.

2.) Write Them Out. This goes with journaling. Once you have validated the distortion, write out what you have believed. This will help your brain and initiate the retraining process. Once you have written it out - cross out the negative or distortion. Next to it (them) write one to two positive or true statements to replace the negative or delusional thoughts. To see a list of positive affirmations click here.

3.) Mental Meditations. Once you have been able to detect the delusional thought patterns then you can begin to retrain your brain to instantly acknowledge, recalculate, and execute. Acknowledge that you have the delusion. Recalculate the positive affirmation to replace previous delusion. Execute by replacing the negative thought with a positive thought, or two.

And finally - Reward Yourself - nobody every said life is easy, so when we set a goal and achieve them we need to make sure to positively reward ourselves. If you have a eating disorder (like myself, I am a comfort eater - so I can't reward myself with food - although I do sometimes) try to reward yourself with something more positive based on your needs. For example, say: if I can go two days without putting myself down, then I will get new ear buds that I have been needing.

For More Information Follow the Links Below

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention CDC Features

Encyclopedia of Mental Disorders - Delusional Disorder

Psych Central - Identifying Irrational Thoughts

CHARGE Syndrome

Kaleb Campbell Townsend 10/28/02 - 10/06/13

Kaleb Was A CHARGEr

CHARGEr refers to an individual that has been diagnosed as having CHARGE Syndrome. To learn more about the syndrome, criteria, and history behind the diagnosis, click here. CHARGE is an acronym; each letter stands for a different abnormality. 

C - Coloboma - Kaleb had a coloboma of his optical discs. What this meant was that he did not see normally. He was considered legally blind.
H - Heart Defects - K-man was born premature, so his heart did not close properly. This was solved in the NICU and he never had heart issues prior to being in the NICU.
A - Astresia - for Kaleb, this occurred in his nasal passageway. As he grew older his openings did grow as well, but it was difficult for certain procedures that he had to go through.

R - Retarded Growth - it wasn't until later that I was informed that CHARGEr's are shorter in stature. As well our Kaleb was born with a small stomach and an enlarged liver. 

G - Genital - abnormalities.

E - Ear - individuals that have been diagnosed with CHARGE usually have the square-shaped ear.

Kaleb's CHARGEr square shaped ear

CHARGE is a combination of birth defects and is diagnosed as a genetic disorder. The spectrum goes from individuals that are unaware that thy have CHARGE - to severe medical conditions and handicaps. According to The CHARGE Syndrome Foundations website the disorder "occurs in about one in every 9-10,000 births worldwide". Lucky us! While Kaleb had many challenges, his CHARGEr personality shined through. His smile was proof that no matter the obstacle, the human spirit perseveres. We miss his smile everyday, but are thankful that God blessed us with such a sweet angel. 

Links

The CHARGE Syndrome Foundation

Kaleb's Facebook Page

C is for Coffee

April A to Z Challenge

Recently I have regained my love for coffee. I have a love-hate relationship with the delicious caffeine filled substance. I have to watch how much I drink, because of my past issue with kidney stones, if I drink too much tea or coffee then it seems to bother my kidney's and then I have to take a break from it for a while.  Last week was the first cup I've had in a few months, just so happens that the electricity went out for a few hours. I was hyped up with not power or internet... what do you think happened next?

I went through a back-log of mail that I have been neglecting to address... why go through a stack of bills when you don't have the money to pay for them...

It's amazing what I am able to accomplish when there is no television or internet to that I get sidetracked with. Usually, I have a hard time getting that energy or motivation to get going. Although, when I drink a cup of coffee it gives me that pick-me-up that I need to get the day started.

Do you drink coffee? What is your favorite - or your ritual pertaining to coffee? 

My favorite coffee is Dunkin' Donuts, although I usually have to wait forever for the cup to cool down enough to take that glorious first sip. I've tried other brands and nothing compares, in my opinion. Especially in the fall, when they have their pumpkin spice. I love fall time, add pumpkin spice in the mix and it makes everything darn near perfect.

There are tons of great coffee gifs and meme's - here are a few of mine. I love these two Snark E Cards, I think it's pretty accurate. Most people that depend on coffee in the morning can't wait to get their hands on it, and then they can function for the day - maybe after their second cup. 

I remember hearing a while back how someone was able to sue a popular restaurant chain because they spilled their coffee on themselves. Really? That goes along with the individual who sued (I believe the same popular food chain) because they became fat after eating their food. Wait - what? Coffee is hot, if you put it in your mouth, chew it, and then swallow it - repeatedly - you could become fat. I feel like a huge "duh" is in order here. But, it just proves the saying: Common sense isn't so common anymore.

My Coffee Haiku

Coffee warms the mouth

gravitates south warms the tummy

Coffee energizes the day

until the morning next divide

B is for Benevolence

April A to Z Challenge

If there were peace in our world, we would be a society filled with benevolent people. Doing for one another and not expecting anything in return. Our civilization would be a divine one. Instead, our society breeds on selfishness, gluttony, sex, greed, and more depths of deceptive behaviors. I'm not saying all people are selfish, sex filled, or greedy. But, this is what our society is raised to value instead of valuing one another in a positive light instead. 

"As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [people]..." Galatians 6:10

The Bible is filled with scripture referring to benevolent actions. When I first thought of the word benevolent, I actually thought it did not mean what it actually means. I had to analyze this concept as well - was I raised to believe that benevolence was a bad thing? Instead, benevolence is a holy act that I believe would bring more happiness into our souls and to the souls of others. Now that I know the definition, I plan to implement this into my life more fully.

"Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law." Romans 13:8-10

When my son was alive, while caring for a child with severe handicaps was challenging, I tried my hardest to convey that he was loved. I took care of him in every aspect of his live, with no real payment. While I told him how much I loved him, he couldn't verbalize his love in return. That's o.k., he could express himself in different ways. I now understand that my love for Kaleb was benevolent of this world.

This could also be the verbiage in coordination with the pay it forward actions. Many people do great things, like pay for the person behind them while in line somewhere, or giving something of themselves to the less fortunate. The only thing is that with paying it forward, this is in reference to Kharma, which follows the study, what you put out in the world comes back to you. Eventually, you are in receipt of that payment. Where a benevolent heart never expects anything in return.

My challenge for you this year: to perform one benevolent act a month.

Let's see how the Bible's scripture can change our lives for the better.

A is for Anxiety

April A to Z Challenge - Day 1

By definition anxiety refers to the feeling of worry, unease, or nervousness, usually about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome. In our society today, "Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older" this is about 18% of our population (ADAA, 2010-2014). I am the 18%, I have been hospitalized for anxiety before. These were brought on by feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and exhaustion. I was exhausted because I was the primary care giver to my son who was severely handicapped. Sleep is important for our brain to recharge, when we do not get adequate sleep our brain is deprived and it can affect how we think and process, so it is important to get your beauty sleep. There are many factors of anxiety, including but not limited to genetics and even something that's happened (past or future). Click on the link below to learn more about anxiety and depression disorders.

Tips on dealing with anxiety:

If you go to a doctor for your anxiety, more likely they will want to prescribe medication. I have been on medication before for my anxiety and it did help. Make sure to read your prescribed medication side effects before taking medication and make sure to tell your doctor all other medications that you take. I would even make sure your doctor knows what you are doing over-the-counter (OTC). There are so many options on the homeopathic spectrum. When researching effective treatment for anxiety and stress, usually the first suggestion is meditation. Read these 5 Meditation Tips for Beginners by Alice Boyes, Ph.D here.

Something I learned while I was in a treatment program, and I would suggest to anyone dealing with any form of anxiety, stress, and depression would be to make a sensory box. I had first learned of sensory boxes working with special needs children. Typically they are filled with tactile items for stimulation (sand, water, beans, etc.). These can be soothing for adults as well. However, another box for help would be filled with positive items. Such as a favorite picture, a favorite saying written down that you can read. When considering items to put into your box think of size, depending on your box, and then think of your five senses: touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing. Some suggestions that were given, and that I use are putting a Hershey kiss in, for taste (if you like chocolate - I would say who doesn't - but I know a couple people that actually do not like chocolate). There are specific smells that will trigger certain effects as well, if you want to be rejuvenated go for citrus, and if you want to relax try lilac (there are small sprays that will fit into boxes). Click here if you would like to learn more about adult sensory stimulation.
Just remember you are not alone!

Links

Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) Website, Facts & Statistics

Meditation Tips Psychology Today

Therapeutic Recreation Directory