There is Always a Risk

They say, the greatest challenges come before the biggest revelation/blessing. That’s funny in itself because we’ve been under siege since December of 2015! Now, don’t get me wrong. I have had some huge blessings the last year and a half, but also a lot of heartbreak and setback. Last week, the enemy sucker punched me in the stomach and I let him steal my joy and I forgot for a while who I was. No, I’m no one important to you. I had forgotten who I was in HIM but this week, was reminded of how important I am to HIM. Today, as I prepare to leave this week for my Walk to Emmaus, I am reminded of dreams God has put on my heart.

From the archives of 4/21/16:

Your dreams were given to you because God equipped you to be able to accomplish them. He has put everything in motion, surrounded you with the right people, opened doors and moved mountains, just for you. Everything you need will be provided for you at the right time, just keep moving forward!2016_04

There is no dream that is too big or too small, too silly, too stupid, too out of this world. Want to save the world? Go for it. Teach school, join the military, make music, art, movies? Right on. Become the CEO, the janitor, or dig wells in 3rd world countries? Do it with all ya got!

The best part about the dreams we have is that we are only given a small glimpse of what God has in store for us! The future will NEVER look like we imagine, so live in today and make the best of it!

PS: If you don’t have people around you that support your dreams (even if they don’t understand they WHY of what you do), you need to find some new people! No one in your life should ever be holding you down or back – only helping to propel you forward, lifting you up,praying over you, and cheering you on!

~ XXOO

Live BIG!
RED

#dreamBIG #rideBIG #liveBIG #loveBIG #believeBIG #heartonfire#redhairdontcare #befierce #beyou

Jaded Hearts

Often times, images speak more to me than words do, but this morning’s devotional cut right through my heart: “Our attitudes are an outward display of what’s taking place in our hearts.” Normally, we tend to regard our attitudes as an outward reflection of what is going on in our lives, but very rarely do we stop and consider that our attitudes, actions, AND words are a reflection of what’s going on in our hearts. There is so much hurt in this world – no matter who is at fault or to blame – but I am here to tell you that the healing and joy available to you far outweighs the hurt! James 1:2 says, “dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great 33017joy.” It may not feel like it right now, but there is joy to be found. There is light in the darkness. There is healing in the hurt. I’m here to tell you, this is a challenge for me as well. While it is a struggle some days to rejoice IN all things, it is so important to guard our hearts and our words. Hurt people hurt people. Don’t let your attitudes and actions leave a permanent mark of a temporary place you are in. Let love, peace, and joy take root in your heart so that the flowers of your soul blossom.

 

Live Big!
Love,
RED

What a year it’s been!

What a year it has been! People ask where I get my enthusiasm and positive outlook. It comes from waking up each morning knowing God has a bigger purpose for me than I can ever imagine. It comes from knowing that in the darkest times, He’s always been there. You only get so many second chances to truly live your life … so do/be/live/love what makes you happy / sets your soul on fire / makes you feel alive. Live a life full of adventure, stories, love, and laughter! It’s all about choices my friends!

From March 25, 2016:

Other than the day my beautiful girl came into this world, I don’t think I’ve ever cried so many tears of joy. I’ve spent the last two weeks being off FB, which isn’t a bad thing, and it has been time well spent with family and in a state of “RE” – REst, REcuperation, REjuvination, REpurpose.

I received the best news ever this morning. My results from Monday’s procedure came back benign. This is the first time EVERYTHING removed came back benign and the first time in 6 years that there was NO signs of cancer in the polyps.

There are no words to express the love and gratitude for all the love, support, prayers, texts, messages, hand holding (and hair holding as I puked my brains out Sunday and Monday), FB posts (I have the best little sister in the world), and words of comfort. I am truly the most blessed person in the world. God is great!

Have a wonderful Easter!

Live Big!
Love,
RED

 

Be Courageous!

I spent my whole life trying to be who I thought others wanted me to be, needed me to be, or who I thought people expected me to be. Then one day, I realized I was depriving myself of an amazing life God had planned for me by not being who He created me to be. Just like that, I made the decision to be who I was supposed to be. It’s been scary, lonely at times, but the most rewarding, freeing experience of my life. 17498607_10101421650428431_4359977109973659292_nNo more shackles, no more strongholds, and no more guilt. My advice: Be you. Everyone else is taken. Set the world on fire with YOUR dreams, passions, heart, mind, smile, art, faith, and gifts/talents/purpose you’ve been given!

 

Live Big!
Love,

RED