Holly and Kelly: This will most likely be our last post of the year 2013, and my how fast it has gone! We would like to take this opportunity to reflect on what we have learned in this past year and how we have grown as humans, sisters, and Christians.
Question God: Really. In a culture that is so bent upon NOT doing such, one thing we have learned is that it is ok to have a healthy questioning of God. We remember talking to each other and asking God "is this really what you want from us?" "Do you really have our best interests at heart?" "How much longer?" Trust me; He can handle it.
Don't be afraid to say no: No is no is no is no. It is a complete sentence, thus should not require explanation. Nobody's going to hate you. Seriously.
Nothing is permanent: This is both a good thing and a bad thing.
Be open-minded to new possibilities and/or challenges: If this were not so, we would have never gotten into Doctor Who. Give things a chance; you never know what you might find. Sometimes things get rough along the way. You can either let them knock you down or you can learn from them. As a result of this, we learned how to forgive loved ones (see below) and be our own people.
The people who are with you through it all are the ones to hold onto: You may think you have known someone your whole life, but when you need them the most they are nowhere to be found. Unfortunately, we learned this truth the hard way. But we're better because of it. We've gained and lost friends along the way, but there have been those few who have been there with us for a long time. Granted we don't get to see them that often, but they have still been there. We are thankful for those people; you know who you are.
Good things come to those who do wait: And they happen in His time, not ours. Right after Kelly graduated, we found ourselves unsure of what road was next. It was a very trying and unsettling time for us, but now things are good. Really good. That doesn't mean though we still need God, because we do.
Get angry: You would be amazed how easy it is to bottle those emotions up. Sometimes a healthy session of venting is ok. Cry out; to God, a friend, someone you trust. We too, like most of these lessons, learned this the hard way. Often times we would both be so angry or frustrated with the circumstances and just blow up at each other for no reason. The moment we stopped running (or trying to run) from what we were angry and frustrated with, the easier it was to deal with it. It wasn't easy at first, but over time it did get easier. It just takes time.
Remember to have fun: Call your friends and plan random get-togethers, just for the sake of doing in. When we first got our new jobs, we would just work and work and work and work, but didn't leave a lot of room for play time. Now random get togethers, even if it's just the two of us, happen at least once a month. Don't misunderstand us; we love our jobs, but sometimes it's nice to just take a break and have fun!
Sometimes letting go is the only way to move forward: Actually, this is a direct quote from an episode of "Smallville". But in all seriousness, we learned this the hard way: earlier in the year we had a falling out from a friend that we were friends with for a long time. Normally we would have run back and tried to fix everything, but this time, we decided enough was enough. And that's that. I think we held on for so long, even though we knew things had gone wrong a while back, because we thought we could fix things. But sometimes people don't want to be fixed, and you have to accept that and move on. So we did. Of course we still think about her and, as always, we wish the best for her.
The ones we lose never really leave us. On our 23rd birthday, we learned that our grandpa had passed away. We did somewhat see it coming, but it nevertheless still saddened us. Still, to this day, we see things, hear things, say things, that remind us of him. He is with us, always, and he is with Jesus and his family, and we can't be sad about that.
Forgiveness doesn't happen overnight. We've had some pretty rough family issues this year, and it's safe to say that things will never be the same. Things have gotten better, yes, but we are still working on the forgiving aspect. We always will, I suppose. Forgiveness takes time.
You have to make time for the things that are important to you. Pretty self-explanatory. But even if it's just for five minutes, take time for yourself. In a culture that is so fast-paced, we ought to.
Goals for the next year:
Give back to God. This is something that Holly has felt on her heart for a while now, and eventually you have to put it into action. We'll see what happens, but God blesses those who give all to Him, including their finances.
Read. We've both enjoyed reading for FUN this year. Yes, an actual book. We anticipate to do more reading in the new year.
Reach out. It's amazing how quickly the time passes and it turns into months and months without hearing from friends and family. Even though it's a lame excuse, we really do get caught up in our busyness. We're hoping that our reaching out will inspire others to reach out to their own loved ones as well.
Jump in. Ever see someone do something/say something but they just keep waiting and waiting? Ever asked yourself "what am I waiting for?" Well....just do it! Don't wait; the opportunity may not come again.
Remember that we're not alone. And neither are you. God is with us, and you, and so are so many others out there. Call upon Him, your family or your friends if you're hurting or struggling. We are going to do our best to do the same.
It's been an up and down year, 2013 has. Let's all do our best in making 2014 a little bit better!
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Friday, December 20, 2013
Making the grade
Kelly: I remember growing up as a kid in elementary school and my parents having multiple conversations with various teachers. I was too young to remember these conversations, but some of them included the loosely translated "she's not going to do well in college" speech because my grades were "below average" and I had a difficult time learning. It was suggested I had a learning disability and from elementary school up through college I severely struggled with taking tests. But my parents never enrolled me to have an IEP (individualized education plan) because they didn't want me to have that label of being "different." Now PLEASE do not misunderstand me; when I look back on it now I think perhaps an IEP or a related degree would have been very beneficial for me. But my parents always told me to do my best in school, and that grades were just letters but that didn't mean I could just slack off. The value of a good and hearty education was important to them, and so was the simple fact of just trying.
College was especially difficult for me at times, because in my field of study I HAD to make certain grades in my classes in order to continue into the program. In one of my generals, I was a few points under the 77% benchmark, thus I had to repeat the course. I often found myself envious of some of my classmates who just seemed to naturally excel; those who barely opened the book yet walked away from each test passing with flying colors. I on the other hand, slaved myself at times to studying and studying. I did not have to work as hard in high school as I did in college, so this was new to me. Making straight A's and "learning how to study" is NOT something you learn in high school in my opinion; it's something you learn, over time, on your own. You learn what works for you and what doesn't. Ok, I sort of veered off course with that, so let me get back on track. I kept in mind what my parents told me; do your best and regardless, they continued to let me know how proud they were of me. Now I understand some people I know have high expectations for themselves. But just bear in mind, it is an opportunity many do not get that we have by going to college. And I am all for making the most of it, but do your best. Sometimes when you do your best and you don't feel like it was or the grade you got doesn't reflect "your best," then....well, I'm sorry about that. I really am. I'm not being brash or insensitive. You fell off the horse; dust yourself off and realize that you did do your best. Don't blame someone else, because trust me. I've tried that. I've pulled the "well they're just unfair" or "they're grading methods are unfair." It doesn't work.
I apologize in advance if I make someone angry or whatnot, but I feel that this blog is a safe place where I can freely express my opinions. It is not my intention to step on anyone's toes, and I am not saying that anyone who expects themselves to get straight A's and nothing else are stuck up and over achievers. Not even close. I honestly sometimes wish I had that motivation for myself. But just remember; in the end, all it comes down to is just....letters.
Holly: This has been on my mind for a while now, and it's come in light of finals wrapping up for students this week, both at Berea and UK (where I work). I'm being completely upfront now; I surprised myself at some of my feelings yesterday. There is some bitterness, there is some jealousy, and I know it's petty and I know it shouldn't be there. But I'm going to be full disclosure. I've accepted it and I'm going to move on from it, and I'm just going to be frank and get this all out, so I apologize if it is lengthy:
A lot of my facebook friends have been posting their final grades. Most of you have gotten A's and B's. Please let me be one of many to congratulate you. College is tough. Berea is a league of its own, if I do say so myself. You all should definitely be proud of yourselves. HOWEVER: I've also had many conversations with people about their grades. I work at UK, for goodness sake. The department has two student workers. Many of my facebook friends are still Berea students. You all GO. NUTS. over your grades. I know so many who get disappointed in themselves and beat themselves to death if they don't make straight A's. And for what? A 4.0?
Guys, I did not make A's and B's at Berea. Not even close. EVERY semester I was there I had a least one C. It sucked. It really did. I busted my butt at Berea, and every time I saw that C it sucked. It felt like I failed. And to see all of you posting your straight A's and your A's and B's...well, yeah. The jealousy comes out. My LAST semester at Berea I was in my adviser's office in tears because I had a D in my Genetics class, and I NEEDED that class to graduate; I thought my life was over, right then and there! But I learned something REALLY quickly during my time at Berea: grades are just letters. It's a letter. Nothing more. A 4.0 will not guarantee you a job after graduation. A 4.0 will not guarantee you acceptance into your dream grad school (We have a friend who graduated with a 3.9 and MIT TURNED HER DOWN. Massachusetts. Institute. of freaking. Technology. Did I stutter?). It will definitely help, I think, or at least I'd like to think it will. A 4.0 will not guarantee you those things because after graduation, there are no guarantees. There just aren't. That's the world we live in, that's the economy we live in. I don't mean to rain on everyone's parades, so let me say this: Please be proud of the grades you do get, whether they're straight A's, or alphabet soup, like mine were. A lot of young people our age don't even get the opportunity to even go to college. Can we not stress ourselves out over these letters? Do your best, in ALL areas, not just your academics. Don't stress. It's not worth it. Enjoy your college experience.; it really does go by fast (I'll be 2 years post graduation next May...woah?). I'm proud of my degree, even with the C's (and yes, the D) littered in my transcript, because I gained so much more than I could have imagined, and you can't put a numerical value on that.
College was especially difficult for me at times, because in my field of study I HAD to make certain grades in my classes in order to continue into the program. In one of my generals, I was a few points under the 77% benchmark, thus I had to repeat the course. I often found myself envious of some of my classmates who just seemed to naturally excel; those who barely opened the book yet walked away from each test passing with flying colors. I on the other hand, slaved myself at times to studying and studying. I did not have to work as hard in high school as I did in college, so this was new to me. Making straight A's and "learning how to study" is NOT something you learn in high school in my opinion; it's something you learn, over time, on your own. You learn what works for you and what doesn't. Ok, I sort of veered off course with that, so let me get back on track. I kept in mind what my parents told me; do your best and regardless, they continued to let me know how proud they were of me. Now I understand some people I know have high expectations for themselves. But just bear in mind, it is an opportunity many do not get that we have by going to college. And I am all for making the most of it, but do your best. Sometimes when you do your best and you don't feel like it was or the grade you got doesn't reflect "your best," then....well, I'm sorry about that. I really am. I'm not being brash or insensitive. You fell off the horse; dust yourself off and realize that you did do your best. Don't blame someone else, because trust me. I've tried that. I've pulled the "well they're just unfair" or "they're grading methods are unfair." It doesn't work.
I apologize in advance if I make someone angry or whatnot, but I feel that this blog is a safe place where I can freely express my opinions. It is not my intention to step on anyone's toes, and I am not saying that anyone who expects themselves to get straight A's and nothing else are stuck up and over achievers. Not even close. I honestly sometimes wish I had that motivation for myself. But just remember; in the end, all it comes down to is just....letters.
Holly: This has been on my mind for a while now, and it's come in light of finals wrapping up for students this week, both at Berea and UK (where I work). I'm being completely upfront now; I surprised myself at some of my feelings yesterday. There is some bitterness, there is some jealousy, and I know it's petty and I know it shouldn't be there. But I'm going to be full disclosure. I've accepted it and I'm going to move on from it, and I'm just going to be frank and get this all out, so I apologize if it is lengthy:
A lot of my facebook friends have been posting their final grades. Most of you have gotten A's and B's. Please let me be one of many to congratulate you. College is tough. Berea is a league of its own, if I do say so myself. You all should definitely be proud of yourselves. HOWEVER: I've also had many conversations with people about their grades. I work at UK, for goodness sake. The department has two student workers. Many of my facebook friends are still Berea students. You all GO. NUTS. over your grades. I know so many who get disappointed in themselves and beat themselves to death if they don't make straight A's. And for what? A 4.0?
Guys, I did not make A's and B's at Berea. Not even close. EVERY semester I was there I had a least one C. It sucked. It really did. I busted my butt at Berea, and every time I saw that C it sucked. It felt like I failed. And to see all of you posting your straight A's and your A's and B's...well, yeah. The jealousy comes out. My LAST semester at Berea I was in my adviser's office in tears because I had a D in my Genetics class, and I NEEDED that class to graduate; I thought my life was over, right then and there! But I learned something REALLY quickly during my time at Berea: grades are just letters. It's a letter. Nothing more. A 4.0 will not guarantee you a job after graduation. A 4.0 will not guarantee you acceptance into your dream grad school (We have a friend who graduated with a 3.9 and MIT TURNED HER DOWN. Massachusetts. Institute. of freaking. Technology. Did I stutter?). It will definitely help, I think, or at least I'd like to think it will. A 4.0 will not guarantee you those things because after graduation, there are no guarantees. There just aren't. That's the world we live in, that's the economy we live in. I don't mean to rain on everyone's parades, so let me say this: Please be proud of the grades you do get, whether they're straight A's, or alphabet soup, like mine were. A lot of young people our age don't even get the opportunity to even go to college. Can we not stress ourselves out over these letters? Do your best, in ALL areas, not just your academics. Don't stress. It's not worth it. Enjoy your college experience.; it really does go by fast (I'll be 2 years post graduation next May...woah?). I'm proud of my degree, even with the C's (and yes, the D) littered in my transcript, because I gained so much more than I could have imagined, and you can't put a numerical value on that.
Sunday, December 15, 2013
Smaug, as seen by H and K: A hasty review
DISCLAIMER: IF YOU HAVE NOT SEEN "THE HOBBIT: THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG" YET, PLEASE DO NOT READ ANY FURTHER. MAJOR SPOILERS LIE WITHIN. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!
Holly: I'll be totally honest, going into this I had absolutely no idea what to expect. Ok, that's not entirely true: I knew that we were going to see Smaug (I mean...duh). I knew that we were going to see Laketown. I knew there was going to be more stuff about The Ring. Aside from that, that's basically all I had to go on. There hadn't been much in terms of advertising: we watched two production blogs from Peter Jackson, one live streaming of the premiere in LA, and a couple TV spots here and there. Compared to AUJ, there was a LOT less media hype.
I'm glad there was a lot less hype. The Desolation of Smaug was leaps and bounds better than what I expected. Leaps. And. Bounds.
I'm not going to delve into all my favorite bits, because, quite frankly, that'd be a whole other post in it of itself (Yes, I really did enjoy it that much). I will share a few things I liked though:
1. SMAUG. Oh. my. gosh. Oh my gosh! Guys, I'm 23 and I was scared, ok? Benedict Cumberbatch was PERFECT. Just perfect. I looooooooooooovvvvvvvveeeeeeeeeeeeedddddddddddddd his voice. And I think a lot of people forget that he literally WAS Smaug: he wasn't just the voice, he did the movements too. So it was Benedict Cumberbatch playing, living, breathing, moving Smaug...asldkfjlakjsdf!!! To those of you who want a brilliant and scary beast, you will not be disappointed.
2. The barrels scene. It's fast-paced, it's wet, it's action-packed, it's like riding a roller coaster. A wet one, with orcs and elves and such. There's even a funny Bombur bit that had Kelly and I rolling! Honestly, that was one of the parts I was most looking forward to and, again, it did not disappoint.
3. Tauriel, the new elf character. I was VERY skeptical at first., but I liked her a lot more than I thought I did. She's fierce, she's a fighter, she kicks serious butt. But she also has a heart to her. There's a scene in Laketown where she heals Kili, and it was such a beautiful scene it brought tears to my eyes. I'm curious to see where the next movie will take her.
I could go on and on. Martin Freeman continues to shine as Bilbo; he just keeps getting better and better. What I loved the most was how he portrays the Ring already starting to take its hold on him. I won't give anything away on that, but it's enough to send a chill down your spine.
My verdict: Go see it, as soon as you are physically able to do so! There's more action, more humor, more heart, and of course, Smaug,...I don't think that you will be disappointed.
Kelly: I thought this movie was 10x better than An Unexpected Journey. I feel like that There And Back Again will be a little bit better than this one. I could be wrong. I will share one more tidbit that I really enjoyed, but also some things that didn't roll too well with me. Gosh, I know!
Holly told me about this review of the movie that said the characters lacked "development" and "heart." I have yet to find this review, but I am now offering my rebuttal. Sis touched on this briefly but I'm going to expand on it. What really hit the most with me in the movie was none of the above, but something TOTALLY unexpected. There is a scene between Kili, Oin, Fili, Bofur and Tauriel. I won't give too much away, but there is a moment between Kili and Tauriel that is NOT romantic but rather a series of beautiful encounters that just stick with me. It is by far probably one of the most beautiful pieces of a movie or TV show that I have ever seen. Ever. Like "oh my gosh my eyes were watering of the beauty" kind of beautiful.
Having said that, there was one thing I didn't really care for, which was in the beginning with Beorn. In the book, the dwarves come in in pairs every 5 minutes in an attempt to plea Beorn into letting them stay in his house. Gandalf all the while is telling their story, and the constant interruptions keep Beorn in suspense and wanting to hear the story. But in the movie, the company literally runs into the house, since Beorn is chasing them, and slams the door in his face. I understand that by sticking with the original story in the book it would have taken time, but still. Nothing similar? But overall it did not hinder from my experience of enjoying the movie, which I did.
I feel like all the actors's performances were above and beyond the first movie. I can see growth in each and every one of them, and my goodness! The roles of their lifetime! But yes, I will repeat what sis said; it is definitely worth a watch! Peter Jackson and the rest of the crew have put out yet another spectacular piece of film. You will thoroughly enjoy it!
Holly: I'll be totally honest, going into this I had absolutely no idea what to expect. Ok, that's not entirely true: I knew that we were going to see Smaug (I mean...duh). I knew that we were going to see Laketown. I knew there was going to be more stuff about The Ring. Aside from that, that's basically all I had to go on. There hadn't been much in terms of advertising: we watched two production blogs from Peter Jackson, one live streaming of the premiere in LA, and a couple TV spots here and there. Compared to AUJ, there was a LOT less media hype.
I'm glad there was a lot less hype. The Desolation of Smaug was leaps and bounds better than what I expected. Leaps. And. Bounds.
I'm not going to delve into all my favorite bits, because, quite frankly, that'd be a whole other post in it of itself (Yes, I really did enjoy it that much). I will share a few things I liked though:
1. SMAUG. Oh. my. gosh. Oh my gosh! Guys, I'm 23 and I was scared, ok? Benedict Cumberbatch was PERFECT. Just perfect. I looooooooooooovvvvvvvveeeeeeeeeeeeedddddddddddddd his voice. And I think a lot of people forget that he literally WAS Smaug: he wasn't just the voice, he did the movements too. So it was Benedict Cumberbatch playing, living, breathing, moving Smaug...asldkfjlakjsdf!!! To those of you who want a brilliant and scary beast, you will not be disappointed.
2. The barrels scene. It's fast-paced, it's wet, it's action-packed, it's like riding a roller coaster. A wet one, with orcs and elves and such. There's even a funny Bombur bit that had Kelly and I rolling! Honestly, that was one of the parts I was most looking forward to and, again, it did not disappoint.
3. Tauriel, the new elf character. I was VERY skeptical at first., but I liked her a lot more than I thought I did. She's fierce, she's a fighter, she kicks serious butt. But she also has a heart to her. There's a scene in Laketown where she heals Kili, and it was such a beautiful scene it brought tears to my eyes. I'm curious to see where the next movie will take her.
I could go on and on. Martin Freeman continues to shine as Bilbo; he just keeps getting better and better. What I loved the most was how he portrays the Ring already starting to take its hold on him. I won't give anything away on that, but it's enough to send a chill down your spine.
My verdict: Go see it, as soon as you are physically able to do so! There's more action, more humor, more heart, and of course, Smaug,...I don't think that you will be disappointed.
Kelly: I thought this movie was 10x better than An Unexpected Journey. I feel like that There And Back Again will be a little bit better than this one. I could be wrong. I will share one more tidbit that I really enjoyed, but also some things that didn't roll too well with me. Gosh, I know!
Holly told me about this review of the movie that said the characters lacked "development" and "heart." I have yet to find this review, but I am now offering my rebuttal. Sis touched on this briefly but I'm going to expand on it. What really hit the most with me in the movie was none of the above, but something TOTALLY unexpected. There is a scene between Kili, Oin, Fili, Bofur and Tauriel. I won't give too much away, but there is a moment between Kili and Tauriel that is NOT romantic but rather a series of beautiful encounters that just stick with me. It is by far probably one of the most beautiful pieces of a movie or TV show that I have ever seen. Ever. Like "oh my gosh my eyes were watering of the beauty" kind of beautiful.
Having said that, there was one thing I didn't really care for, which was in the beginning with Beorn. In the book, the dwarves come in in pairs every 5 minutes in an attempt to plea Beorn into letting them stay in his house. Gandalf all the while is telling their story, and the constant interruptions keep Beorn in suspense and wanting to hear the story. But in the movie, the company literally runs into the house, since Beorn is chasing them, and slams the door in his face. I understand that by sticking with the original story in the book it would have taken time, but still. Nothing similar? But overall it did not hinder from my experience of enjoying the movie, which I did.
I feel like all the actors's performances were above and beyond the first movie. I can see growth in each and every one of them, and my goodness! The roles of their lifetime! But yes, I will repeat what sis said; it is definitely worth a watch! Peter Jackson and the rest of the crew have put out yet another spectacular piece of film. You will thoroughly enjoy it!
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
The Hobbit: what the book and movies mean to us
Holly and Kelly: We are now 10 days away from the second movie of the Hobbit Trilogy; The Desolation of Smaug. Now I am sure that most of you are sick of seeing the stuff we keep posting on our social media sites. Here's just a few reasons why we are so excited for the upcoming flick:
*Lord of the Rings: Yep, we totally missed out on that movie trilogy. We were 11, 12 and 13 when the movies hit the big screen. I remember seeing previews for those movies and thinking how stupid they looked. Someone should have gone Sam with a frying pan to our heads.
*A story of hope, courage and inspiration: When you get past the scary Wargs, Orcs, trolls and goblins, that's exactly what this story is all about. Bilbo is basically an average Joe Hobbit who is so preoccupied with his space and things. But out of the blue, Gandalf takes all that away from him, stating in the movie "it will be very good for you." In my life, God has been the Gandalf in my life; taking away my comforts and putting me on this roller coaster that's called being in a relationship with Him. It's crazy, but worth it!
*The actors and crew: I cannot stress this enough, they really do care about their fans! Peter Jackson was quoted saying "I don't make these movies for the Oscars. I make them for the fans." He also does video blogs and hosts fan events. How many movie makers do you see doing that? Not too many. We were watching the World Premiere last night that took place in Hollywood. The actors spent a LOT of time with the fans signing things, talking to them and taking pictures with them. I will post a video at the end that brings this point home. You'll see what I mean.
*Tolkien; He was a Christian! Need I say more?! If you read the book you will see hidden Christian themes, or at least I do. My favorite is at the end when Gandalf tells Bilbo " you really don't suppose, do you, that all your adventures and escapes were managed by mere luck, just for your sole benefit?" (and yes this is straight out of the book). Bilbo then states "Thank goodness!"
*Our faith: We can honestly believe that these stories have strengthened our faith and relationship with Christ. When you read about Bilbo and his struggles, Frodo and his struggles and the other characters and their struggles, you know they're real, even though the characters are not. Let's face it; we've all dealt with fear, pride, worry and doubt, and we've all had a Sam or a Gandalf in our lives to help us fight the good fight. Accountability partners? Exactly. I read about these struggles, reflect upon mine, am inspired and I thank God for what He has brought me through and for blessing us with an author and movie director that has inspired many, ourselves included. So there. Now you have it.
Prepare to grab some tissues for this one.
*Lord of the Rings: Yep, we totally missed out on that movie trilogy. We were 11, 12 and 13 when the movies hit the big screen. I remember seeing previews for those movies and thinking how stupid they looked. Someone should have gone Sam with a frying pan to our heads.
*A story of hope, courage and inspiration: When you get past the scary Wargs, Orcs, trolls and goblins, that's exactly what this story is all about. Bilbo is basically an average Joe Hobbit who is so preoccupied with his space and things. But out of the blue, Gandalf takes all that away from him, stating in the movie "it will be very good for you." In my life, God has been the Gandalf in my life; taking away my comforts and putting me on this roller coaster that's called being in a relationship with Him. It's crazy, but worth it!
*The actors and crew: I cannot stress this enough, they really do care about their fans! Peter Jackson was quoted saying "I don't make these movies for the Oscars. I make them for the fans." He also does video blogs and hosts fan events. How many movie makers do you see doing that? Not too many. We were watching the World Premiere last night that took place in Hollywood. The actors spent a LOT of time with the fans signing things, talking to them and taking pictures with them. I will post a video at the end that brings this point home. You'll see what I mean.
*Tolkien; He was a Christian! Need I say more?! If you read the book you will see hidden Christian themes, or at least I do. My favorite is at the end when Gandalf tells Bilbo " you really don't suppose, do you, that all your adventures and escapes were managed by mere luck, just for your sole benefit?" (and yes this is straight out of the book). Bilbo then states "Thank goodness!"
*Our faith: We can honestly believe that these stories have strengthened our faith and relationship with Christ. When you read about Bilbo and his struggles, Frodo and his struggles and the other characters and their struggles, you know they're real, even though the characters are not. Let's face it; we've all dealt with fear, pride, worry and doubt, and we've all had a Sam or a Gandalf in our lives to help us fight the good fight. Accountability partners? Exactly. I read about these struggles, reflect upon mine, am inspired and I thank God for what He has brought me through and for blessing us with an author and movie director that has inspired many, ourselves included. So there. Now you have it.
Monday, November 18, 2013
Potpurri post #8
Kelly: Realized: we have not done one of these since February. It's a general consensus that we share just some of the things that have been going on in our lives. We put the Christmas tree up a few days ago; Wiley keeps trying to eat it. Ever since we've been at our current house, Yoda does this adorable thing when she smells something unusual; we call it grinning. Last night I got home from work and she grinned after smelling my feet. Twice. Annnnnnnnnnnd....the litter box reeks again. Lovely.
I woke up this morning to a voice mail from my nurse manager, reminding me of a 4 hour medication class I will be attending this Thursday in the morning, on top of working my regularly scheduled shift. The circumstances as to why I am taking that class are of no importance, but yeah. Happy Monday to me....hahaha I'm teasing. I was half expecting a "hey can you come in and work today" voice mail. It was a pretty slow weekend at work; our census is low again, so yay! And now Wiley is trying to climb on my arm; we had a nice cuddle this afternoon when I was watching Titanic. Oh yeah, and I'm giving blood tomorrow. Yippee!! That's about all to report; nothing really on. One last thing; WE'RE GOING TO OHIO FOR THANKSGIVING!!!!!!!! :D
Holly: Did you know that crayfish spit? Yep, I didn't either, until it happened to me today. Moooving on...
Guess that's a good sign work is going well. I've been there just a tad over 3 months now, and a sure-fire sign that I'm used to the early mornings is that on weekends, I'm wide awake by 9:30. Granted, I don't get out of bed until 10ish. But still. What I wouldn't give for my college glory days of sleeping in until 11-11:30, sometimes noon.
SMAUG IS COMING IN 25 DAYS!!!!!!!! It's beginning to get ridiculous how excited we are.
Kelly is now showing me a YouTube hack: Apparently, if you type "1980" after pausing a video it turns into a game sort of thing where you have to protect your video from flying missiles. Aaannnd, this is probably why we're still single. hahahahahahaha
I woke up this morning to a voice mail from my nurse manager, reminding me of a 4 hour medication class I will be attending this Thursday in the morning, on top of working my regularly scheduled shift. The circumstances as to why I am taking that class are of no importance, but yeah. Happy Monday to me....hahaha I'm teasing. I was half expecting a "hey can you come in and work today" voice mail. It was a pretty slow weekend at work; our census is low again, so yay! And now Wiley is trying to climb on my arm; we had a nice cuddle this afternoon when I was watching Titanic. Oh yeah, and I'm giving blood tomorrow. Yippee!! That's about all to report; nothing really on. One last thing; WE'RE GOING TO OHIO FOR THANKSGIVING!!!!!!!! :D
Holly: Did you know that crayfish spit? Yep, I didn't either, until it happened to me today. Moooving on...
Guess that's a good sign work is going well. I've been there just a tad over 3 months now, and a sure-fire sign that I'm used to the early mornings is that on weekends, I'm wide awake by 9:30. Granted, I don't get out of bed until 10ish. But still. What I wouldn't give for my college glory days of sleeping in until 11-11:30, sometimes noon.
SMAUG IS COMING IN 25 DAYS!!!!!!!! It's beginning to get ridiculous how excited we are.
Kelly is now showing me a YouTube hack: Apparently, if you type "1980" after pausing a video it turns into a game sort of thing where you have to protect your video from flying missiles. Aaannnd, this is probably why we're still single. hahahahahahaha
One last thing, I reckon: I am super stoked for Thanksgiving. A week from Wednesday we'll be on the road (well, it's 8:40 at night so hopefully we'll be at home...) in Ohio visiting our mom and dad and brother, and possibly our grandparents. We haven't been to Ohio in almost a year, and seen our grandparents in over 2. I know that doesn't seem like a lot of time, but we're a close family. That's one of the crappy things about growing up; you don't get to see your family that much. It's funny- working in academia, you look forward to the breaks as much as the students do.
Please enjoy this picture of Yoda that I just love so much!! :) Hope life is treating you all well.
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| Yoda says hello |
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Heroes among us
Holly: This past Sunday, the sermon at church was about heroes, not only how everyone has them but that we ought to be one as well. Something the whole "hero complex" thing tends to leave out, huh? Anyway, I posted a little diddy on Facebook, but didn't get much of a response (which is fine. Half the time I post stuff just for my own enjoyment. ha). So we decided to branch out on this and not only mention our heroes, but why, perhaps...
~Jesus. Now I'm not going to go all preachy on you all, because you have your beliefs and I have mine. But ever since I became a Christian, life has not been the same for me, and I'm trying not to sound horrendously cliche...but it's true. I look at the world differently, I don't stress about things, I have more joy in my life (REAL joy), I have hope for the future...I could go on and on. And I will just leave it at that. :)
~ My parents. Again, could go on and on about this. They have supported me and all my craziness/foolishness/broke-ness/silliness, etc, they love me and tell me often. I consider my mom one of my best friends. I hope to be half the parents mine are, if I cross that bridge someday.
~My grandpa. He passed away this year, on our birthday. He lived a life of what I like to call "quiet grace"; he loved the Lord, he loved his family, he loved his work, but was never "in your face", never outspoken. I think he was one of the first people to tell me about Jesus. He always encouraged me in my faith journey. I miss him still and think of him often, but I know he is at peace, reunited with my grandmother and his family.
~My advisor from my college days. I learned more about life, other people, and myself from hours and hours spent in his office talking than any Berea College course I took. I'm grateful that I was an advisee and student of his, because he has moved on from Berea College and is onto another chapter in his life, as I am with mine.
~Missionaries. Takes a lot of courage to travel to an unfamiliar place and share something so personal with complete strangers. Yet thousands do it, voluntarily, every single day.
~Single parents. I can't imagine raising a child with a strong support system. By yourself...seems nearly impossible. You have my immense respect, all you single moms (and dads!!) out there.
~My pastor and his wife. I met them at a challenging, scary, and change-filled time in my life, and they just welcomed Kelly and I with open arms and basically allowed us to become part of their family. Now five years, 2 Bachelor's degrees, a Master's degree, 2 kids, and a lot of lunch dates later, and I now consider them both dear friends. They really do walk the walk and talk the talk, and it's so rare these days.
~Bilbo Baggins. Yes, I know he isn't real. But you have this ordinary, small, well-meaning hobbit who enjoys his food and his quiet and his things, and he gets swept away on this incredible journey and ultimately becomes the hero of the story.
~Paul. Starts out persecuting Christians. Becomes one. Speaks for many and changes lives. You can't make that stuff up.
Kelly: I have an addendum or two to add to this list:
~My parents, but here's my view. They raised me to not only love other but to love myself as well. I never hit my siblings and did my best to obey them. Call me a goody-goody, a teacher's pet, whatever. Seems like its a lost art these days.
~My friends. I am so happy and blessed to have such a diverse group of individuals that I am close to. Some of my friends have gone through unimaginable junk in their lives but have not let that junk define them. We are all going through walks of life but are bonded by friendly love.
~Anyone who is going through a physical or mental illness and has decided to seek help and/or treatment in some way not because they are forced to but because they WANT to. They want to better themselves and they want to invest in a better life for themselves and for their family and friends.
~Veterans, past and present. You all know what you did and have done for our country. Words cannot express my sincere gratitude. I would not have what I have if it wasn't for you all. Thank you!
So there you have it. Who are your heroes? Whose hero are you?
~Jesus. Now I'm not going to go all preachy on you all, because you have your beliefs and I have mine. But ever since I became a Christian, life has not been the same for me, and I'm trying not to sound horrendously cliche...but it's true. I look at the world differently, I don't stress about things, I have more joy in my life (REAL joy), I have hope for the future...I could go on and on. And I will just leave it at that. :)
~ My parents. Again, could go on and on about this. They have supported me and all my craziness/foolishness/broke-ness/silliness, etc, they love me and tell me often. I consider my mom one of my best friends. I hope to be half the parents mine are, if I cross that bridge someday.
~My grandpa. He passed away this year, on our birthday. He lived a life of what I like to call "quiet grace"; he loved the Lord, he loved his family, he loved his work, but was never "in your face", never outspoken. I think he was one of the first people to tell me about Jesus. He always encouraged me in my faith journey. I miss him still and think of him often, but I know he is at peace, reunited with my grandmother and his family.
~My advisor from my college days. I learned more about life, other people, and myself from hours and hours spent in his office talking than any Berea College course I took. I'm grateful that I was an advisee and student of his, because he has moved on from Berea College and is onto another chapter in his life, as I am with mine.
~Missionaries. Takes a lot of courage to travel to an unfamiliar place and share something so personal with complete strangers. Yet thousands do it, voluntarily, every single day.
~Single parents. I can't imagine raising a child with a strong support system. By yourself...seems nearly impossible. You have my immense respect, all you single moms (and dads!!) out there.
~My pastor and his wife. I met them at a challenging, scary, and change-filled time in my life, and they just welcomed Kelly and I with open arms and basically allowed us to become part of their family. Now five years, 2 Bachelor's degrees, a Master's degree, 2 kids, and a lot of lunch dates later, and I now consider them both dear friends. They really do walk the walk and talk the talk, and it's so rare these days.
~Bilbo Baggins. Yes, I know he isn't real. But you have this ordinary, small, well-meaning hobbit who enjoys his food and his quiet and his things, and he gets swept away on this incredible journey and ultimately becomes the hero of the story.
~Paul. Starts out persecuting Christians. Becomes one. Speaks for many and changes lives. You can't make that stuff up.
Kelly: I have an addendum or two to add to this list:
~My parents, but here's my view. They raised me to not only love other but to love myself as well. I never hit my siblings and did my best to obey them. Call me a goody-goody, a teacher's pet, whatever. Seems like its a lost art these days.
~My friends. I am so happy and blessed to have such a diverse group of individuals that I am close to. Some of my friends have gone through unimaginable junk in their lives but have not let that junk define them. We are all going through walks of life but are bonded by friendly love.
~Anyone who is going through a physical or mental illness and has decided to seek help and/or treatment in some way not because they are forced to but because they WANT to. They want to better themselves and they want to invest in a better life for themselves and for their family and friends.
~Veterans, past and present. You all know what you did and have done for our country. Words cannot express my sincere gratitude. I would not have what I have if it wasn't for you all. Thank you!
So there you have it. Who are your heroes? Whose hero are you?
Sunday, November 10, 2013
The company you keep
Holly: This weekend was Berea's homecoming. We got to see several of our friends, some that we haven't seen in a year or so. We all went to lunch and as we were leaving, one of our friends asked if we would be getting together for new year's, because that's likely when we'll next see each other. The reply was, and it didn't really hit me until just now because it was basically laughed off, was something to the degree of "We can have a thing at our house since we're not into the going out and drinking." This morning Kelly and I were talking about this, and we came to this conclusion: That is the reason why we aren't into "that" scene- because our friends really aren't either. And let me tell you, that makes it a million times easier to not give into it. Don't get me wrong, I've never been one to follow the crowd, but that doesn't mean the temptations aren't there.
On the flip side of this, I know several people who are into "that" scene, and guess what....typically so are their friends. Coincidence? I think not. Is that a bad thing? No. Not at all. But contrary to popular belief, who we associate with GREATLY influence us, and that could definitely swing one way or the other. I am at that age and time in my life when I can determine basically who stays in my life and who doesn't. It sounds blunt, I realize this. Unfortunately, I learned this the hard way just this year when an almost 10 year friendship came to an end- I'll make a set of very long stories short and just say we weren't the same people we once were. She became a different person (entirely not for the better, I must admit) and Kelly and I just didn't understand. But I digress. I, long ago, set boundaries, guardrails, for my life, and I have enough respect for myself to hold to them. Anyway, if you're into the drinking/going out scene, then by all means, please have a good time (but please be safe as well). As for me, I am much more inclined (and so are me and my friends) to go have dinner and go see a movie. In the instance of this weekend, it happened to be Cheddar's and Thor: The Dark World, both of which I highly recommend. :)
Kelly: In this day and age, it's so uncommon for a young adult of my age to do what I do...or don't do in this case. A typical get together involving my close friends usually involves going out for lunch/dinner, going to someone's house (usually our friends in Lexington. Many of our friends have cat allergies), talking, hanging out, watching a movie and snacking on popcorn or the new healthy snack of the week (these same friends introduced us to Orgain shakes. They're quite good). :) But over time, the people you spend a lot of time around BECOME one another, without ever really intentionally meaning to do so.
Some of our close friends are Christians, but most of them are not. They know I am a believer in God and do not hold that against me or make fun of me for it. I sincerely hope that my friends can see Christ in me. They are supportive of the good choices I make, as I am of the good choices they make. If I don't want to do/try something, they drop it. I remember when I was in Scotland and I was a flat-sharer with 5 other girls. I was the oldest, which already put me in an awkward position. But they were the typical party girls and often tried to get me to come as well; I soon learned realized this was their lifestyle choice at their home universities. I politely declined because I'm not really into that kind of thing. At all. One on my roommates asked me "so do not drink because you're a Christian?" Number one: rude. Number two: the generalization that all Christians are thumb-twiddling Bible-thumping hermits needs to GO! It was at that moment that I missed being back in Berea, because in my circle of friends I'm loved and accepted for who I am and what I do or don't do. I love all of my friends like my own family and I would do anything for them. I'm happy that God put them in my life and hope they are happy I'm in their lives as well.
Some of our close friends are Christians, but most of them are not. They know I am a believer in God and do not hold that against me or make fun of me for it. I sincerely hope that my friends can see Christ in me. They are supportive of the good choices I make, as I am of the good choices they make. If I don't want to do/try something, they drop it. I remember when I was in Scotland and I was a flat-sharer with 5 other girls. I was the oldest, which already put me in an awkward position. But they were the typical party girls and often tried to get me to come as well; I soon learned realized this was their lifestyle choice at their home universities. I politely declined because I'm not really into that kind of thing. At all. One on my roommates asked me "so do not drink because you're a Christian?" Number one: rude. Number two: the generalization that all Christians are thumb-twiddling Bible-thumping hermits needs to GO! It was at that moment that I missed being back in Berea, because in my circle of friends I'm loved and accepted for who I am and what I do or don't do. I love all of my friends like my own family and I would do anything for them. I'm happy that God put them in my life and hope they are happy I'm in their lives as well.
Saturday, November 2, 2013
You jump. How high?
Kelly: This has been a topic of conversation between us for quite some time now. We all know that one person who always seems to be out and about doing things with friends. And we have heard multiple times the "I'm tired and don't want to go out tonight" line. Yet later on in the night a text or phone call comes in, then it's the "Well I'm off. See you later tonight" line. And then, there's the "well my friends are having this party. You can come if you want to but there's going to be things there that you probably won't be interested in." When I was in Scotland I had one roommate actually tell me "I know you're going to say no but I wanted to ask..." Uh...thanks? Hands up, who's heard any or all of the above statements?
I don't know, maybe I'm just a stick. I consider myself to be somewhat of a social person, but sometimes I tend to lean on the introverted side. I like hanging out with my friends just as much as the average young adult, but I also like having my me time. I'm a BIG fan of quiet nights in, especially after a few rough nights of work. But the way I see it is this; the social world is constantly evolving and frankly, it's not going anywhere anytime soon. And it's not that I do anything "fun" at all, but my type of fun usually means staying in, watching a movie or reading a book (something I did not have the pleasure of doing while in school. One of the MANY benefits of only working part time). Maybe people think they're a bad friend if they turn down an invitation; I used to think that way with my best friend at home. But sometimes, I feel it's really necessary to just say no. It really is ok.
Holly: Personally, I think if you want to have a quiet night in, then you should have a quiet night in. If your friends invite you somewhere and you say no, and they get upset, then that's their problem. Don't get me wrong; I love my friends to death, but more often than not I am much more inclined to spend the night to myself reading, watching Big Bang Theory, etc. Why do we sometimes feel the need to drop everything and do something even though deep down, we REALLY don't want to? I'm guilty of that, big time. I sometimes have a hard time saying no. Mostly because I'm just trying to help out. But I think you should "go out" or help out when YOU want to because you want to, not because you feel like you have to. It really is ok to say no sometimes. I know many of you are just go go go all the time (myself included). I don't think anyone is going to fault you for wanting to take some time to yourself, heaven forbid.
Heck, even Jesus took time for himself. There are numerous instances in the Bible when he would go off by himself just to be by himself and pray. We NEED alone time. Seriously. I think if us single (and not!) young adults learn to be independent, we can thrive in our day-to-day relationships with others. Or we can just learn how to breathe!!!
I'm rambling. My apologies. Take some time for yourself this weekend, even if it's just a few minutes. And if we do jump at opportunities, let's try to ask ourselves why.
Holly: Personally, I think if you want to have a quiet night in, then you should have a quiet night in. If your friends invite you somewhere and you say no, and they get upset, then that's their problem. Don't get me wrong; I love my friends to death, but more often than not I am much more inclined to spend the night to myself reading, watching Big Bang Theory, etc. Why do we sometimes feel the need to drop everything and do something even though deep down, we REALLY don't want to? I'm guilty of that, big time. I sometimes have a hard time saying no. Mostly because I'm just trying to help out. But I think you should "go out" or help out when YOU want to because you want to, not because you feel like you have to. It really is ok to say no sometimes. I know many of you are just go go go all the time (myself included). I don't think anyone is going to fault you for wanting to take some time to yourself, heaven forbid.
Heck, even Jesus took time for himself. There are numerous instances in the Bible when he would go off by himself just to be by himself and pray. We NEED alone time. Seriously. I think if us single (and not!) young adults learn to be independent, we can thrive in our day-to-day relationships with others. Or we can just learn how to breathe!!!
I'm rambling. My apologies. Take some time for yourself this weekend, even if it's just a few minutes. And if we do jump at opportunities, let's try to ask ourselves why.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Schtuff twin girls say, volume 4 (Brittany makes return appearances)
And we're at it again...
Kelly: I would love to be a Hobbit. Just for a day or two or ten.
Brittany: You could house sit while Bilbo goes on his adventure.
Holly: He WAS gone for 13 months.
Kelly: I could!!!! Oh my gosh I would totally do that.
Brittany: I would love to have tea with them.
Holly: I would love to take them to Orange leaf. I could just see them standing over there like "aahhhhhhhhh" because they love food.
Kelly: Honey, I do that when we go there.
Kelly: Brittany, I keep telling Holly about all the stuff that's at Plato's Closet because she keeps asking me.
Brittany: They really do have everything.
Kelly: Except scrubs.
Holly: Or puppies. So they don't have everything!
Holly: Devin (other guy I work with) thinks Wiley's gay.
Brittany: Why?
Holly: Because he likes to lay on shoes, and my purse, and all that...'
Brittany: Nah, I'd say he's more like Smaug. They're his treasures!
Dead. Holly died. XD
(A few minutes after the above conversation)
Holly: (notices Wiley laying on her shoes) Wiley, are you Smaug? Are you guarding your treasure?
(Wiley purrs)
Kelly: (while watching America's Funniest Home Videos) Ok, that HAD to have been photo shopped. Or video shopped. Or whatever the video equivalent of photo shop is.
Kelly: (watching an Arby's commercial). Au jus. Au jus. Au jus sauce. Au jus. Bless you. (Holly proceeded to laugh so hard she snorted).
Holly: I'm officially in cell-phone limbo. I'm in cell phone purgatory. I'm scared.
Holly: (in reference to Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart, who are often photographed together) I don't see how the world just hasn't blown up because of their awesome.
Brittany: Come on Wiles, let's get crunk.
Kelly: German just sounds like a very angry language.
(while out with friends, one of whom is a photographer. She asked if we felt pretty)
Holly: (taking a large spoonful of ice cream) No, I feel fat.
Holly: I feel bad for Gollum because he doesn't eat.
Brittany: No wonder he's losing his hair.
Holly: Well there's Aragog, then Aragorn and Christopher Paolini wrote Eragon.
Kelly: It's like different tenses.
Brittany: Oh Wiles, why are you so cute? You have such a handsome face, like Liam Neeson.
Holly: (after watching the DoS TV spots) Smaug kind of sounds like Darth Vader.
Kelly: I'm already ready for bed tomorrow.
Brittany: Oh look, boyfriend is calling. (picks up phone). Hello, boyfriend. (short pause). Yes, this is girlfriend, how may I help you?
Kelly: Peter Jackson! (while watching Jeopardy)
Holly: Um, Kelly, the category is Female New Zealand Directors.
Kelly: I would love to be a Hobbit. Just for a day or two or ten.
Brittany: You could house sit while Bilbo goes on his adventure.
Holly: He WAS gone for 13 months.
Kelly: I could!!!! Oh my gosh I would totally do that.
Brittany: I would love to have tea with them.
Holly: I would love to take them to Orange leaf. I could just see them standing over there like "aahhhhhhhhh" because they love food.
Kelly: Honey, I do that when we go there.
Kelly: Brittany, I keep telling Holly about all the stuff that's at Plato's Closet because she keeps asking me.
Brittany: They really do have everything.
Kelly: Except scrubs.
Holly: Or puppies. So they don't have everything!
Holly: Devin (other guy I work with) thinks Wiley's gay.
Brittany: Why?
Holly: Because he likes to lay on shoes, and my purse, and all that...'
Brittany: Nah, I'd say he's more like Smaug. They're his treasures!
Dead. Holly died. XD
(A few minutes after the above conversation)
Holly: (notices Wiley laying on her shoes) Wiley, are you Smaug? Are you guarding your treasure?
(Wiley purrs)
Kelly: (while watching America's Funniest Home Videos) Ok, that HAD to have been photo shopped. Or video shopped. Or whatever the video equivalent of photo shop is.
Kelly: (watching an Arby's commercial). Au jus. Au jus. Au jus sauce. Au jus. Bless you. (Holly proceeded to laugh so hard she snorted).
Holly: I'm officially in cell-phone limbo. I'm in cell phone purgatory. I'm scared.
Holly: (in reference to Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart, who are often photographed together) I don't see how the world just hasn't blown up because of their awesome.
Brittany: Come on Wiles, let's get crunk.
Kelly: German just sounds like a very angry language.
(while out with friends, one of whom is a photographer. She asked if we felt pretty)
Holly: (taking a large spoonful of ice cream) No, I feel fat.
Holly: I feel bad for Gollum because he doesn't eat.
Brittany: No wonder he's losing his hair.
Holly: Well there's Aragog, then Aragorn and Christopher Paolini wrote Eragon.
Kelly: It's like different tenses.
Brittany: Oh Wiles, why are you so cute? You have such a handsome face, like Liam Neeson.
Holly: (after watching the DoS TV spots) Smaug kind of sounds like Darth Vader.
Kelly: I'm already ready for bed tomorrow.
Brittany: Oh look, boyfriend is calling. (picks up phone). Hello, boyfriend. (short pause). Yes, this is girlfriend, how may I help you?
Kelly: Peter Jackson! (while watching Jeopardy)
Holly: Um, Kelly, the category is Female New Zealand Directors.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Relentless love
Holly: The following is my Facebook status from this morning:
Thought of a couple things on this rainy Wednesday morning:
1. Last night at choir, there was mention of a young man in Rockcastle County who attempted suicide. Praise God he is still with us, but he is 15, and while he is physically healing, the spiritual and emotional damage is probably so much more extensive than we can even begin to imagine. Granted, my life was not perfect at 15 (although better than most, I must admit), but I can not imagine wanting to take my life at that age. At 15, you're still a kid; there's still so much more out there. As I was praying in the car this morning, I prayed that we would be aware, that we would reach out, that we would show love, RELENTLESSLY, to others, because we never know what we are going through. Sometimes it's one encouraging word, a smile, a silent prayer, that keeps someone from going over the edge.
2. I love the concept of a subtle witness: There is a shuttle driver that drives UK employees from the stadium to campus, and right as he pulls up and opens the doors, he ALWAYS says "Have a good day, and may the Lord bless you." EVERY time. It never fails to bring a smile to my face.
Doing my best to think of others and to be that subtle witness, today, and every day. :)
The first part, the young man, has been heavily on my heart since yesterday. The word that kept running in my mind was "relentless". We ought to NEVER stop showing love and compassion for one another. Guys, it's still hard for me. I know the words above probably disagree with that, but it's true. The more I think of this, the more I realize that life isn't about me. I was not put here on this earth for me. I was put on this earth to love God and to love people. I have hope, and every day I do my best to live out that hope. I fail, I know I do, and I accept that, and I accept God's amazing grace and I try again tomorrow. But I've said this before and I'll say it again- I sincerely desire to impact someone's life just by me being in it.
For the life of me I simply cannot imagine getting to a point in life where you think the only way out is taking your own life. I just can't imagine the pain, the loneliness, the fear, the despair that one must feel. Especially with these young people; it just destroys me. Feeling like there's absolutely no one and nothing...you're so, so alone. I think at some point, we hit the lowest of valleys, but I have been blessed with an amazing support system, and I know that there are those who love me and support me and pray for me (And God knows I need it!). But some people do not have that. That destroys me too. We weren't meant to do this life thing alone. We're stronger together than we are apart. I think it's high time we show people the human side of humanity, instead of all this nastiness and bitterness everyone is so hell-bent on broadcasting.
Even darkness must pass.
Kelly: Where I work, I would say the most common report I get from patients is "I feel hopeless", "I've hit rock bottom" or "If (insert situation) doesn't get better, it will kill me." They feel like there's no hope. Some of these patients I've encountered don't have any family, or even a place to call home and no one to call friend. Some have all of the above and still feel hopeless, and that's when they come to us. Sadness, hopelessness, loneliness and fear, it doesn't discriminate. I've dealt with 18-year-old suicidal people and older suicidal people. My reaction is always the same; I hurt. I told a co worker on Monday that at one point or another I'm sure everyone has gone through some sort of depression in their life. I have. I KNOW I have. But never, not even for half a second did I ever even consider taking my own life.
But some people have. Some people succeed and some don't. I remember this song from high school and some of the words are "how do you get that lonely? How do you hurt that bad?" That's why I do what I do; just try to love especially when someone doesn't feel loved. And the love that I share comes from Christ alone. That hope, joy and peace I have comes from Him too. I often wonder if my words of encouragement to others falls on deaf ears, but I'd like to think that what I say is what someone needed to hear at just the right time. I left early for work yesterday and a patient asked me to unlock his door. I jokingly said "you just want me to stay don't you?" He didn't say anything for a while, but he said "yeah, I do." It's the little things.
Friends, I don't know what you all are going through. I'm sure some of you are going through the most unimaginable circumstances. I sincerely hope and pray that your situations, whatever they may be, will resolve soon. But when someone tells you they are thinking/praying for you, I hope it encourages you and lifts you up, even if it's for just a little bit. A sliver of hope goes a long way.
Thought of a couple things on this rainy Wednesday morning:
1. Last night at choir, there was mention of a young man in Rockcastle County who attempted suicide. Praise God he is still with us, but he is 15, and while he is physically healing, the spiritual and emotional damage is probably so much more extensive than we can even begin to imagine. Granted, my life was not perfect at 15 (although better than most, I must admit), but I can not imagine wanting to take my life at that age. At 15, you're still a kid; there's still so much more out there. As I was praying in the car this morning, I prayed that we would be aware, that we would reach out, that we would show love, RELENTLESSLY, to others, because we never know what we are going through. Sometimes it's one encouraging word, a smile, a silent prayer, that keeps someone from going over the edge.
2. I love the concept of a subtle witness: There is a shuttle driver that drives UK employees from the stadium to campus, and right as he pulls up and opens the doors, he ALWAYS says "Have a good day, and may the Lord bless you." EVERY time. It never fails to bring a smile to my face.
Doing my best to think of others and to be that subtle witness, today, and every day. :)
The first part, the young man, has been heavily on my heart since yesterday. The word that kept running in my mind was "relentless". We ought to NEVER stop showing love and compassion for one another. Guys, it's still hard for me. I know the words above probably disagree with that, but it's true. The more I think of this, the more I realize that life isn't about me. I was not put here on this earth for me. I was put on this earth to love God and to love people. I have hope, and every day I do my best to live out that hope. I fail, I know I do, and I accept that, and I accept God's amazing grace and I try again tomorrow. But I've said this before and I'll say it again- I sincerely desire to impact someone's life just by me being in it.
For the life of me I simply cannot imagine getting to a point in life where you think the only way out is taking your own life. I just can't imagine the pain, the loneliness, the fear, the despair that one must feel. Especially with these young people; it just destroys me. Feeling like there's absolutely no one and nothing...you're so, so alone. I think at some point, we hit the lowest of valleys, but I have been blessed with an amazing support system, and I know that there are those who love me and support me and pray for me (And God knows I need it!). But some people do not have that. That destroys me too. We weren't meant to do this life thing alone. We're stronger together than we are apart. I think it's high time we show people the human side of humanity, instead of all this nastiness and bitterness everyone is so hell-bent on broadcasting.
Even darkness must pass.
Kelly: Where I work, I would say the most common report I get from patients is "I feel hopeless", "I've hit rock bottom" or "If (insert situation) doesn't get better, it will kill me." They feel like there's no hope. Some of these patients I've encountered don't have any family, or even a place to call home and no one to call friend. Some have all of the above and still feel hopeless, and that's when they come to us. Sadness, hopelessness, loneliness and fear, it doesn't discriminate. I've dealt with 18-year-old suicidal people and older suicidal people. My reaction is always the same; I hurt. I told a co worker on Monday that at one point or another I'm sure everyone has gone through some sort of depression in their life. I have. I KNOW I have. But never, not even for half a second did I ever even consider taking my own life.
But some people have. Some people succeed and some don't. I remember this song from high school and some of the words are "how do you get that lonely? How do you hurt that bad?" That's why I do what I do; just try to love especially when someone doesn't feel loved. And the love that I share comes from Christ alone. That hope, joy and peace I have comes from Him too. I often wonder if my words of encouragement to others falls on deaf ears, but I'd like to think that what I say is what someone needed to hear at just the right time. I left early for work yesterday and a patient asked me to unlock his door. I jokingly said "you just want me to stay don't you?" He didn't say anything for a while, but he said "yeah, I do." It's the little things.
Friends, I don't know what you all are going through. I'm sure some of you are going through the most unimaginable circumstances. I sincerely hope and pray that your situations, whatever they may be, will resolve soon. But when someone tells you they are thinking/praying for you, I hope it encourages you and lifts you up, even if it's for just a little bit. A sliver of hope goes a long way.
Monday, October 7, 2013
Packages from Mom
Kelly: It's no secret of mine that I have a close relationship with my mom. With both of my parents actually. But in the past few years, I feel that I have grown especially closer to my mom. Don't know if that's because I've been out of their house since I was 18; officially since last year. We talk at least once a week, sometimes more. I am not ashamed to say that at my age I still need my mommy and daddy! Like a child getting lost in the mall....like that. It's the same way that I need (and we all need) Christ! To those who out there who are not as close to their parents, I hurt, because I do not know what I would do without my parents. I sincerely hope you can work out your differences, whatever they may be. To those of you who lost your parents due to death, again, I hurt. I know you miss them deeply and would love to see them again; I'll say a prayer for you tonight.
But one of the things that my mom did while we were in college was send us random holiday packages...for each holiday. This tradition of holiday packages started around our sophomore year of college. Valentine's Day, Easter, our birthday, Halloween, but not Christmas since we were usually home then. In these packages there's usually candy, candles, a sock monkey or two (for me!), coupons, and other assorted things. Sometimes there have been socks for that holiday, toys for our kitties, or other assorted Dollar store goodies (the very place we introduced our mom to in the first place), but in each one there was always a card or a note that usually says "yay! Good for you" or "you can do it" or "we're so proud of you!" I'm not a mom yet nor I don't know if I will ever be, but I think those are some of the greatest things a parent can, and should say, to their child or children. And they should say it often. And our parents did and still do.
Holly: When Kelly texted me earlier today with the words "MOMMY PACKAGE!!!!" my day instantly got better. When I got home and perused through this particular package's contents, I said "If I ever have kids, I am going to send them packages too." I know my parents love me and are proud of me, but sometimes it's the unexpected surprises that remind you just how much you are loved. And missed. I miss my mom and dad. Yes, at 23, I still miss my mommy and daddy, and I don't see that changing any time soon. I figured that when I moved out and was on my own, I would miss them less. Nope. Don't get me wrong, I love being on my own and being independent, but if my parents showed up at my door tomorrow and said I could move back home, I wouldn't spare a second thought.
I know my parents aren't going to be on this earth forever, and it breaks my heart to imagine my life without them. So for now, I try to cherish the time I do get to spend with them. Usually it's just for a few days at a time, several months apart. I appreciate the time I spend with them now, possibly more than I did before I started college, moved out, etc. I regret that. I really do. My parents have been there for me so many times, have believed in my craziest dreams, and have never been shy of voicing how proud they are of me and Kelly and how much they love us. It kills me when I hear my friends say that they don't get along with their parents, or they never hear their parents tell them that they are proud of them. Or my friends who still live with their parents but they just don't talk. When my parents come to visit, that's basically all we do. I feel like I could talk to my parents all day!
If any of you are reading this and you don't have a good relationship with your parents, maybe it's time to bridge the gap. If any of you are reading this and your parents aren't with you anymore, I hope you think of them with a smile on your face, tears (of whatever magnitude, if necessary), and love and warmth in your heart. If any of you are reading this and you still live with your parents, please hug them a little more. Tell them you love them. Tell them you're proud to be their son or daughter. This world is so ugly, as our roommate Brittany said, and it needs beautiful things. One of our candles from today's mommy package is burning, and now I'm thinking of home-cooked meals, the smell of the house, laughing together. That's a beautiful thing.
But one of the things that my mom did while we were in college was send us random holiday packages...for each holiday. This tradition of holiday packages started around our sophomore year of college. Valentine's Day, Easter, our birthday, Halloween, but not Christmas since we were usually home then. In these packages there's usually candy, candles, a sock monkey or two (for me!), coupons, and other assorted things. Sometimes there have been socks for that holiday, toys for our kitties, or other assorted Dollar store goodies (the very place we introduced our mom to in the first place), but in each one there was always a card or a note that usually says "yay! Good for you" or "you can do it" or "we're so proud of you!" I'm not a mom yet nor I don't know if I will ever be, but I think those are some of the greatest things a parent can, and should say, to their child or children. And they should say it often. And our parents did and still do.
Holly: When Kelly texted me earlier today with the words "MOMMY PACKAGE!!!!" my day instantly got better. When I got home and perused through this particular package's contents, I said "If I ever have kids, I am going to send them packages too." I know my parents love me and are proud of me, but sometimes it's the unexpected surprises that remind you just how much you are loved. And missed. I miss my mom and dad. Yes, at 23, I still miss my mommy and daddy, and I don't see that changing any time soon. I figured that when I moved out and was on my own, I would miss them less. Nope. Don't get me wrong, I love being on my own and being independent, but if my parents showed up at my door tomorrow and said I could move back home, I wouldn't spare a second thought.
I know my parents aren't going to be on this earth forever, and it breaks my heart to imagine my life without them. So for now, I try to cherish the time I do get to spend with them. Usually it's just for a few days at a time, several months apart. I appreciate the time I spend with them now, possibly more than I did before I started college, moved out, etc. I regret that. I really do. My parents have been there for me so many times, have believed in my craziest dreams, and have never been shy of voicing how proud they are of me and Kelly and how much they love us. It kills me when I hear my friends say that they don't get along with their parents, or they never hear their parents tell them that they are proud of them. Or my friends who still live with their parents but they just don't talk. When my parents come to visit, that's basically all we do. I feel like I could talk to my parents all day!
If any of you are reading this and you don't have a good relationship with your parents, maybe it's time to bridge the gap. If any of you are reading this and your parents aren't with you anymore, I hope you think of them with a smile on your face, tears (of whatever magnitude, if necessary), and love and warmth in your heart. If any of you are reading this and you still live with your parents, please hug them a little more. Tell them you love them. Tell them you're proud to be their son or daughter. This world is so ugly, as our roommate Brittany said, and it needs beautiful things. One of our candles from today's mommy package is burning, and now I'm thinking of home-cooked meals, the smell of the house, laughing together. That's a beautiful thing.
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Get up all "in your face" or just live like Jesus.
Kelly: A few weeks ago, Holly and I touched on the subject on the two greatest commandments that we are to obey as Christians (Here is the post we are referring to). Today's is not necessarily a follow up of that post, but it is something similar, or at least I think it is. xtyz (oops, Yoda got a hold of the keyboard again). I feel though that in light of some recent conversation, comments, the sermon today and whatnot, I am going to throw out a disclaimer right now: the topic at hand we are discussing today has multiple sides, and we acknowledge and are aware of them. However, today, we are choosing to focus on just a few of the sides on this multi-faceted topic of discussion. This morning in Sunday School our discussion was about being more intentional about who we come in contact with. The Scripture we referenced was when Jesus met with the Samaritan Woman. The consensus we reached was that He didn't bump into her on purpose; He knew her story and He knew she'd be there at the time that He was there too. One of the questions that was asked was what are some of the most ineffective ways to tell others about Jesus. I gave the example of someone knocking on your door and getting all in your face, seemingly shouting "excuse me, do you have a moment to talk about Jesus?" or "Hey, I'm here right now to tell you about Jesus!" Now PLEASE do not misunderstand me; I am not against those means of evangelizing. I'm just saying, they have not worked for me. It made me uncomfortable, a bit uneasy, and obliged to initiate a response. Once they left, that was it. There was no room to get to know the actual person. I felt like just another check mark on their list of people to reach. We were then asked what were some of the most effective ways of telling others about Jesus. Holly said just being real with people. I followed up and said that Jesus got into the heart and soul of everyone He met, like Zaccheaus, the Pharisee and the Samaritan Woman. He knew their stories, and if He didn't, He learned them. He didn't intimidate them or scare them. No. He was real with them.
This leads into the next part of my portion. Today's sermon was about respecting humanity. The main point that was driven home was simple: it DOES NOT MATTER where any person, ANY PERSON, has come from, what they look like, who they love, where they're from, we as Christ's body are to give them, ALL of them the love and respect that they not only need but deserve. Did I stutter?
Holly: There was a story about Union Church (a non-denominational church in town) on the news a couple of nights ago. If there are any of you non-Bereans who are reading this, one of the things that stands out about this church is that right out front there's a very large banner with a rainbow flag that says something to the degree of "ALL are welcome! No kidding! No exceptions!" We posted the video below- please take the time to watch it if you feel led to do so.
This leads into the next part of my portion. Today's sermon was about respecting humanity. The main point that was driven home was simple: it DOES NOT MATTER where any person, ANY PERSON, has come from, what they look like, who they love, where they're from, we as Christ's body are to give them, ALL of them the love and respect that they not only need but deserve. Did I stutter?
Holly: There was a story about Union Church (a non-denominational church in town) on the news a couple of nights ago. If there are any of you non-Bereans who are reading this, one of the things that stands out about this church is that right out front there's a very large banner with a rainbow flag that says something to the degree of "ALL are welcome! No kidding! No exceptions!" We posted the video below- please take the time to watch it if you feel led to do so.
What really gets me (and this was said this morning in the sermon) is that so many of us, including Christians, totally forget or disregard the second part of the greatest commandment, which is "love your neighbor as yourself." It's simple concepts, really: Show compassion to others. Treat others the way you want to be treated. Freaking BE NICE to people. And yet somewhere along the way the lines get blurred. I've stated my views on love and acceptance and respect many times before, so I won't share them again. But one of the ways we do that is by relating to people. Just sharing life with others! Being the hands and feet of Jesus by reaching out to those who are already on the outside looking in. Heck, even those that aren't. I feel that regular, every day conversations can turn into the spiritual, meaningful ones over time if we relate to people on all areas of their lives. For me, like Kelly said, that doesn't involve loudly proclaiming "HEY YOU NEED JESUS RIGHT HERE AND RIGHT NOW NO IFS ANDS OR BUTS!" The truth is, we ALL need Jesus. There's a quote that says "You may be the only Bible that someone ever reads." We ought to be sharing messages of love, acceptance, and hope; something this society so desperately needs. I posted on my Twitter today that the message at Berea Baptist is one that needs to be preached but probably isn't. Let's live like Jesus with our lives and words. Let's reach out to ALL people. No exceptions.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
A brief, one-sided reflection of Hobbit Day
Holly: In the spirit of Hobbit Day (September 22nd, Bilbo and Frodo's birthday), with the seasons turning, cooler weather approaching, The Return of the King complete recordings playing, me halfway through Fellowship of the Ring, I feel compelled to write.
I wrote in my journal not too long ago about Lord of the Rings, Tolkien himself, and what this world, this Middle Earth, has done for me and my life. I won't divulge entirely in the details, although I may post the entire entry at some future date, but I noted that I think, through my journey to Middle Earth, through both film and book, that I feel I have drawn closer to God as a result. I feel at peace when I think of the hobbits I so relate to, of the wondrous descriptions of all the splendors Middle Earth has to offer. They taught me to trust, to love, to feel unabashedly. I draw strength from the music and from the books, and I thank God for this. He has put people in my life who love Tolkien and his world, and who introduced myself to it. I thank God because He knows how to speak to His children. I thank God for Tolkien, who was inspired to bring Middle Earth to life, a world that gives so many people hope, even so many years after his passing. I hope to someday pay my respects to Tolkien.
I think of the chaotic week that lies before me, and I have prayed fervently, and I know others have done the same for me. But as Sam so eloquently says "Even darkness must pass." And as I continue on my reading, my complete recordings listening, the open windows of my apartment letting in the cool of the day, the birds all about, the sun shining in and providing warmth to my cats, I think of what Frodo went through, what Bilbo went through, what I've gone through and what God has brought me through. I'm not where I want to be, but I'm not where I used to be. For today, I choose to just be. To just be absorbed in my own little piece of Middle Earth, to celebrate 2 hobbits I dearly cherish. "Even darkness must pass. A new day will come. And when the sun shines it will shine out the clearer."
I wrote in my journal not too long ago about Lord of the Rings, Tolkien himself, and what this world, this Middle Earth, has done for me and my life. I won't divulge entirely in the details, although I may post the entire entry at some future date, but I noted that I think, through my journey to Middle Earth, through both film and book, that I feel I have drawn closer to God as a result. I feel at peace when I think of the hobbits I so relate to, of the wondrous descriptions of all the splendors Middle Earth has to offer. They taught me to trust, to love, to feel unabashedly. I draw strength from the music and from the books, and I thank God for this. He has put people in my life who love Tolkien and his world, and who introduced myself to it. I thank God because He knows how to speak to His children. I thank God for Tolkien, who was inspired to bring Middle Earth to life, a world that gives so many people hope, even so many years after his passing. I hope to someday pay my respects to Tolkien.
I think of the chaotic week that lies before me, and I have prayed fervently, and I know others have done the same for me. But as Sam so eloquently says "Even darkness must pass." And as I continue on my reading, my complete recordings listening, the open windows of my apartment letting in the cool of the day, the birds all about, the sun shining in and providing warmth to my cats, I think of what Frodo went through, what Bilbo went through, what I've gone through and what God has brought me through. I'm not where I want to be, but I'm not where I used to be. For today, I choose to just be. To just be absorbed in my own little piece of Middle Earth, to celebrate 2 hobbits I dearly cherish. "Even darkness must pass. A new day will come. And when the sun shines it will shine out the clearer."
"We may stand, if only on one leg, or at least be left still upon our knees."
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Family Matters
Holly: I fail to be clever on demand. Sorry. This week has taken forever and it STILL isn't Friday. haha.
Our parents came to visit us this past weekend. We only get to see them a few times out of the year now, and they usually have to come to us. They're both retired, so they have the flexibility that they so need after both working 30+ years in their respective fields. After they leave I always miss them. But this time was different. I was left thinking about the relationship between kids and parents nowadays. I have a great relationship with my parents and my family in general. Yet I know so many of my friends who don't. Some of my friends haven't spoken to their parents in years. Some of my friends don't know their mom or dad. Some of my friends don't even know how to fit in with their own family. That makes me really sad.
The friends I do have who are still in contact with their folks don't have many good things to say about them. Most of the time they say they're not supportive, or they shoot down their dreams. Which makes me even MORE sad. This is a glimpse of what we had growing up: We were never given everything we wanted, we always had to work for it (I'll let Kelly share a story about that). There was always a home cooked meal, and if Mom or Dad made something and we weren't sure about it, we had to try one bite. If we didn't like it we didn't have to eat it. Mom and Dad weren't afraid to show their affection in front of us kids (although it grossed us out at times! haha). They told us they loved us and they told us often. They've ALWAYS supported Kelly and I, and tell us they're proud of us, and tell us often. My mom has bailed me out (mostly financially) more times than I care to admit. If something awesome happens in my life, Mom is the first person I tell! My Dad is so goofy; I get my silliness from him, for sure. In my 23 years of life, I have never felt not loved, not supported by my parents. In fact, I think I've grown closer to my folks since being on my own. Yeah, they're not perfect, and in their almost 32 years of marriage and 3 grown kids later, there's been issues, of course. But I love them so much and I'm proud of where I come from. I hope that if I ever have kids I can be half the parents mine are.
Kelly: I always remember when I was growing up that we weren't "spoiled" by any means. We didn't have everything we wanted, but we weren't skimped out and we got by. We weren't filthy rich but we weren't dirt poor either. My parents valued working hard for what you had, and they definitely passed that onto us. As kids, Mom would get us something (usually a season of Smallville) and instead of giving it to us we had to work for it. This usually meant cleaning our room (and not just throwing everything in the closet...I mean HOURS of cleaning) or practicing our instruments when were were in our band years. And I'll admit; we were good kids because we had good parents. Sure us 3 kids fought, but to my knowledge it was never anything physical. We never laid our hands on ANYONE because Mom and Dad never laid their hands on each other or on us as punishment. Yes, you heard me; none of us were ever spanked. Now I'm not against spanking, but I do think that people can take it too far. We were never grounded, snuck out of the house, ran away from home or endured any of the classic "teenage rebellion." Why? Well A, we had nowhere to go and B, we learned very early in life that it's just not ok to run away from your problems or blame someone else for something you did. When the time came for us to go to college, mom and dad always said that we had the choice to go wherever we wanted and that they would help us provide the financial means as best as they could. Again, we weren't skimped out. And we were honest and real with one another; we could all talk to each other about EVERYTHING. We didn't get our driver's licenses until we were 19 years old, because Holly and I told our parents at 16 that we did not feel comfortable or mature enough to operate a car. At Christmas time, we were always at our house together; now if family or friends wanted to join us they were always welcome to do so.
How I've been raised has allowed me to reflect on how I want to raise my own children, should I ever get to that point. My future children, like I was, will learn to respect authority, all authority. I want them to be responsible, accountable for their own actions and want them to do not only what is right within them but what is right in God's eyes as well. I want my children to march to the beat of their own drums and to not necessarily do what is "normal" or "easy" or "in." I want to be a parent, but I also want to be a friend. I'm just thankful for the family I had, and still do have, because I know that one day we will all depart this Earth. Be thankful for your family; whatever your definition of family is.
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| Little twins. We're 7 in this picture :) |
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| Holly, our brother Kip and me. Family friend did a photo shoot of us kids. |
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| Holly's graduation, May 2012 |
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| Our wonderful parents! :) |
Friday, September 6, 2013
Unplugged
Kelly: A few nights ago, Holly and I were once again talking about the fact that technology seems to be taking over the world. The view were tackling with this post is technology and face-time with friends. I'll share a story. Over Christmas break, a friend of ours invited us to have lunch. We shared some brief conversations and catch-ups since it had been about 7 months since we had last seen each other. After about 10 minutes of conversing, she got her phone out as she had received a text from someone. Meanwhile, mine and Holly's phones were on silent and in our purses. This texting conversation with...whoever (she didn't tell us who it was) continued for the majority of the meal. Now let's bring this back; how would you feel? The impression I was getting from her was that she didn't want to be there, and I really didn't want to be there. It just felt awkward. I remembered the times we would just laugh and be stupid and stay up till 1 in the morning talking about stupid stuff without cell phones getting in the way.
Now please don't misunderstand me. I am NOT against cell phones! I sometimes feel very out of place when I don't have mine, especially when I make my 40 minute commute to work. Yet sometimes I feel really happy and relieved when I forget to leave mine off for most of the day. I think they're great; they're the only way I can get in touch with my parents back in Ohio. It's just a major pet peeve of mine that some people I know seems they can't even function if they're phone isn't right there. It's another pet peeve of mine when I'm with a group of friends and everyone but me is on their phone talking/texting researching God knows what or God knows who. What ever happened to unattached and unchained actual face to face time with people? Seems like it's a lost art these days.
Holly: It really baffles me just how wrapped up our society has become on viewing the world through a small screen. Earlier in the week I was grumbling about how I had to charge my cell phone again (I turn mine off at night), and I mentioned to a co-worker that I usually have to charge my phone 1-2 times a week. He was shocked; he said "That's not a lot." No, it's not. With the exception of texts to Kelly, random texts here and there and random phone calls to home, my cell phone does not get much use. It drove me crazy in college when my friends would moan and groan about how little sleep they got because people were texting them all night. Um...how about you turn your phone off? "Oh gosh no, I could never do that!" was usually the reply. Well then....kwitchawhining. I know it's blunt and I know it's rude, but you CAN turn your phone off every now and then.
Something else that baffles me is Face Time. Ok, really? You are not having a conversation with someone's face...you are having a conversation with someone's face ON A SMALL SCREEN. Face time, to me, is actually sitting across the way at someone's FACE. I'm all about keeping in touch...but really? I ride a shuttle from UK stadium to campus, and every morning and afternoon, about 90% of the passengers are just attached and totally absorbed in their phones. Most days I crave face-to-face conversation. although, sadly, I now prefer to text rather than call (I'm working on that...). Seriously, though. Put the phone down, look out the window, put some music on, or God forbid actually have a conversation with the person sitting next to you (This has happened to me on numerous occasions and it always brings a smile to my face).
In about a week or so Kelly and I are going to be getting smartphones. I really hope we don't become one of "those" people. But here's my guarantee: whenever I meet with you, for whatever reason, my phone will be away and on silent, unless it's an emergency. I believe one of the most important things we can give someone is our time; let's shoot for 100%. We owe it to those we care about.
Let's try to unplug ourselves a little more each day...
Now please don't misunderstand me. I am NOT against cell phones! I sometimes feel very out of place when I don't have mine, especially when I make my 40 minute commute to work. Yet sometimes I feel really happy and relieved when I forget to leave mine off for most of the day. I think they're great; they're the only way I can get in touch with my parents back in Ohio. It's just a major pet peeve of mine that some people I know seems they can't even function if they're phone isn't right there. It's another pet peeve of mine when I'm with a group of friends and everyone but me is on their phone talking/texting researching God knows what or God knows who. What ever happened to unattached and unchained actual face to face time with people? Seems like it's a lost art these days.
Holly: It really baffles me just how wrapped up our society has become on viewing the world through a small screen. Earlier in the week I was grumbling about how I had to charge my cell phone again (I turn mine off at night), and I mentioned to a co-worker that I usually have to charge my phone 1-2 times a week. He was shocked; he said "That's not a lot." No, it's not. With the exception of texts to Kelly, random texts here and there and random phone calls to home, my cell phone does not get much use. It drove me crazy in college when my friends would moan and groan about how little sleep they got because people were texting them all night. Um...how about you turn your phone off? "Oh gosh no, I could never do that!" was usually the reply. Well then....kwitchawhining. I know it's blunt and I know it's rude, but you CAN turn your phone off every now and then.
Something else that baffles me is Face Time. Ok, really? You are not having a conversation with someone's face...you are having a conversation with someone's face ON A SMALL SCREEN. Face time, to me, is actually sitting across the way at someone's FACE. I'm all about keeping in touch...but really? I ride a shuttle from UK stadium to campus, and every morning and afternoon, about 90% of the passengers are just attached and totally absorbed in their phones. Most days I crave face-to-face conversation. although, sadly, I now prefer to text rather than call (I'm working on that...). Seriously, though. Put the phone down, look out the window, put some music on, or God forbid actually have a conversation with the person sitting next to you (This has happened to me on numerous occasions and it always brings a smile to my face).
In about a week or so Kelly and I are going to be getting smartphones. I really hope we don't become one of "those" people. But here's my guarantee: whenever I meet with you, for whatever reason, my phone will be away and on silent, unless it's an emergency. I believe one of the most important things we can give someone is our time; let's shoot for 100%. We owe it to those we care about.
Let's try to unplug ourselves a little more each day...
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Debunking the stigmas
Holly: It's not much of a surprise that society tends to put people into "boxes". You have your haves and have-nots, your loners and social butterflies, your twenty-somethings and your elderly, your single people and your couples...you get the idea. Then there's us. We're more on the "haves" side of things, we fit somewhere in between loner and social butterfly, we're both single, and we're both in our 20s. We're also Christians.
I've seen a lot of stigmas associated with being a Christian. I'm sure you have too. "Christians don't know how to have fun." (Whatever that means, anyway. I guarantee my definition of "fun" and your definition are totally different). "Christians think everyone's going to hell." "Christians only listen to Christian music and don't watch movies with swearing or sex or any of that stuff." "Christians are so hypocritical." "Christians don't drink or smoke or any of that." "Christians are so judgmental." "Christians think everything is BAD!" You get the idea, right?
I'm going to debunk ALL of these by saying that they're all full of crap. Last night, Kelly and I went and saw "The World's End" in theaters. I will be the first to say that it's filthy. There's a lot of bad language and a lot of inappropriate-ness. However, we saw it anyway. Why? Because it's JUST A MOVIE. It's not like Kelly and I are going to suddenly embark on a mile-long pub crawl. No. And that's where I debunk all of these stigmas. Movies, tv shows, books, etc, things that are "questionable" are merely in this world for the sole purpose of entertainment. It's just a movie. It's just a book. They're not real. There's a quote from Facing the Giants in which someone asks "So you think God cares about football?" The rebuttal is that God cares about our faith. We can indulge in a totally stupid and funny 2 hour movie and keep our integrity in check. Watching a movie is not a sin. As for music...give me Mumford and Sons any day of the week.
Kelly: I remember at the first church I attended when I was about 8 years old. As you all know, Harry Potter had just come out and was starting to get well known. Holly and I were in our Sunday School class and our Sunday School teacher was very anti-Harry Potter because of the magic, witchcraft and wizardry that obviously happens. She blatantly said that Harry Potter was a sin. I remember going home and being very upset because I was thinking about reading it but because of what she said I didn't. Maybe that's why we waited so long to read them...anyway.
Last night, like she said, Holly and I enjoyed an R rated movie. I also have been known to enjoy the occasional alcoholic beverage. (Bear in mind I said OCCASIONAL). I think what it just boils down to is ignorance. Just because we carry the name of Christ doesn't mean we're these sheltered, Bible-thumping fire and brimstone kind of people. No. When I was in Scotland 2 summers ago, I was the oldest in my apartment and my roommates were into that kind of party scene that included bar-hopping and the such. I am not really into that. Never have been. I remember I was in the kitchen making dinner and after repeatedly declining their invitations one girl asked me if I was a Christian. I said that I was. She then asked "oh so you don't drink because you're a Christian?" I'm going to use a Martin Freeman picture again to express my frustration then and now.
I've seen a lot of stigmas associated with being a Christian. I'm sure you have too. "Christians don't know how to have fun." (Whatever that means, anyway. I guarantee my definition of "fun" and your definition are totally different). "Christians think everyone's going to hell." "Christians only listen to Christian music and don't watch movies with swearing or sex or any of that stuff." "Christians are so hypocritical." "Christians don't drink or smoke or any of that." "Christians are so judgmental." "Christians think everything is BAD!" You get the idea, right?
I'm going to debunk ALL of these by saying that they're all full of crap. Last night, Kelly and I went and saw "The World's End" in theaters. I will be the first to say that it's filthy. There's a lot of bad language and a lot of inappropriate-ness. However, we saw it anyway. Why? Because it's JUST A MOVIE. It's not like Kelly and I are going to suddenly embark on a mile-long pub crawl. No. And that's where I debunk all of these stigmas. Movies, tv shows, books, etc, things that are "questionable" are merely in this world for the sole purpose of entertainment. It's just a movie. It's just a book. They're not real. There's a quote from Facing the Giants in which someone asks "So you think God cares about football?" The rebuttal is that God cares about our faith. We can indulge in a totally stupid and funny 2 hour movie and keep our integrity in check. Watching a movie is not a sin. As for music...give me Mumford and Sons any day of the week.
Kelly: I remember at the first church I attended when I was about 8 years old. As you all know, Harry Potter had just come out and was starting to get well known. Holly and I were in our Sunday School class and our Sunday School teacher was very anti-Harry Potter because of the magic, witchcraft and wizardry that obviously happens. She blatantly said that Harry Potter was a sin. I remember going home and being very upset because I was thinking about reading it but because of what she said I didn't. Maybe that's why we waited so long to read them...anyway.
Last night, like she said, Holly and I enjoyed an R rated movie. I also have been known to enjoy the occasional alcoholic beverage. (Bear in mind I said OCCASIONAL). I think what it just boils down to is ignorance. Just because we carry the name of Christ doesn't mean we're these sheltered, Bible-thumping fire and brimstone kind of people. No. When I was in Scotland 2 summers ago, I was the oldest in my apartment and my roommates were into that kind of party scene that included bar-hopping and the such. I am not really into that. Never have been. I remember I was in the kitchen making dinner and after repeatedly declining their invitations one girl asked me if I was a Christian. I said that I was. She then asked "oh so you don't drink because you're a Christian?" I'm going to use a Martin Freeman picture again to express my frustration then and now.
Again, I think it just boils down to ignorance. It's frustrating. So if anyone out there asks me how I spent my weekend, please please PLEASE do not gasp and be all flabbergasted if I reply that I went and had a drink with my friends. I believe there is absolutely nothing wrong with alcohol and R-rated movies. It's just if we let the drinking go farther than our limits and we start behaving in the way that R-rated movies sometimes are, then that in my opinion is when they can become problematic. Yet again there's another struggle, because today's culture is immersed with this type of behavior ALL the time. More often than not these types of behaviors are just casual, brushed off with "oops it just happened" or "oh it's ok. I'll clean up better next time." Now I ain't trying to preach, but it seems to me that the line between right and wrong has been so blurred in the past few years or so. And let's face it, our society has become so accepting of basically just a "doing it your way" type of lifestyle. Hey, that's great and all, but in my world living for myself is too small a thing to live for. God made me as the person that I am today; I think I owe it to Him to take care of this vessel He made in me. He's built something in my head that started young, because I've never been one to follow with what is "right" in today's world. So in the meantime, I'm going to enjoy what I enjoy and live my best for God. That's all any of us can do really.
Friday, August 23, 2013
The Two Greatest Commandments
Kelly: A few nights ago, Holly and I were having an interesting conversation, as is the starter of the majority of these blog posts. As you all know, we are followers of Christ, or at least we claim to be. By the way, if you see or hear us acting not in such a manner, please let us know. Sometimes we are not aware of our own words or actions, am I right? Anyway, in Matthew Jesus answers the question what the two greatest commandments are. Simple. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul mind and strength. The second is like it; love your neighbor as yourself. In today's world, it seems to me we need to go back to basics with the latter.
I've heard before ad nauseum, especially from these other "churches" who say "we love God and He is our Savior, but you all are burning to hell because of xyz." Yes, I'm talking about the latest people population that has been targeted; gays. Now please don't misunderstand me, I am in no way shape or form discriminating against anyone who is gay. In fact, some of my friends are gay and I love them dearly. The question that Holly and I posed while we were having this conversation is can you love God without loving other people? ALL people? My answer? No. I don't think you can. Jesus didn't discriminate against ANYONE, therefore we shouldn't either, whether or not you claim to carry the name Christian. If one is selective about who they want to show love to, then in my opinion you're missing the message that Jesus was trying to carry. But it's not just the gay population that is being targeted, no. Again, like I said, I feel like the world needs to go back to basics. I think some people have just forgotten how to simply be nice. I was reading on Yahoo! news that this family received a letter stating that their mentally challenged young son was a disgrace to their neighborhood and that the parents were shameful for letting him play outside.
Ironically, Holly and I viewed Lee Daniel's The Butler this evening. There was one line that President Kennedy (as portrayed by James Marsden) is watching the TV and footage of African Americans being relentlessly beaten on the streets. He sinks his face in his hands and says "I can't believe that this is my country." Sadly, this is what our country was and unfortunately what our world is becoming. Ya'll, this is the point I'm trying to say; it doesn't matter what your views are on Christianity, gay rights, etc. Just show some common courtesy to ANYONE you meet. You don't know what they're going through.
Holly: We love because He first loved us. ~1 John 4:19
Jesus dying for the sins of the world on the cross- how much more of a powerful way can you say "I love you?' He also makes very clear the two commandments: love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself. Nowhere is there any subtext that says love your neighbor as yourself....EXCEPT if he's gay, black, weird, pink, straight, yellow, male, female, a dog....NO. There are no exceptions. Period.
I've mentioned this in a post or two previously, but I think love just goes beyond love. I believe love also comes with acceptance. Jesus loves who we are, everything about us, flaws and all. I don't think you can love somebody without accepting all of them. Now that goes without saying that you don't have to fully adopt their lifestyle choices- no. That's not it at all. But stay open-minded and be respectful. Eventually you look past all the things that originally turned you off from them and you see them for who they really are; a child of God, a living, breathing human being. If you really think about it, when you boil everything down, we are all essentially the same. We are all created in the image of God. I know I need to remember this when I yell at the questionable drivers I encounter on a daily basis (I have terrible road rage).
I'm caught thinking of Westboro Baptist Church. This is an institution that is supposed to be proclaiming the love of Christ. Instead, they spread nothing but utter hate and ignorance and oppose anything that threatens their little box full of blasphemy that they've sadly put themselves in. They absolutely refuse to listen to any reason whatsoever and they believe they are perfectly valid. I do not consider them a church. I do not consider their members to be Christians. Heck, I don't even know if the life I'M living will be considered Christian when I am judged by God at the end of my earthly life. But it's spelled out as clear as day: we are called to love. And I'm doing my best to do just that. Please let me know if you see me doing otherwise.
I've heard before ad nauseum, especially from these other "churches" who say "we love God and He is our Savior, but you all are burning to hell because of xyz." Yes, I'm talking about the latest people population that has been targeted; gays. Now please don't misunderstand me, I am in no way shape or form discriminating against anyone who is gay. In fact, some of my friends are gay and I love them dearly. The question that Holly and I posed while we were having this conversation is can you love God without loving other people? ALL people? My answer? No. I don't think you can. Jesus didn't discriminate against ANYONE, therefore we shouldn't either, whether or not you claim to carry the name Christian. If one is selective about who they want to show love to, then in my opinion you're missing the message that Jesus was trying to carry. But it's not just the gay population that is being targeted, no. Again, like I said, I feel like the world needs to go back to basics. I think some people have just forgotten how to simply be nice. I was reading on Yahoo! news that this family received a letter stating that their mentally challenged young son was a disgrace to their neighborhood and that the parents were shameful for letting him play outside.
Ironically, Holly and I viewed Lee Daniel's The Butler this evening. There was one line that President Kennedy (as portrayed by James Marsden) is watching the TV and footage of African Americans being relentlessly beaten on the streets. He sinks his face in his hands and says "I can't believe that this is my country." Sadly, this is what our country was and unfortunately what our world is becoming. Ya'll, this is the point I'm trying to say; it doesn't matter what your views are on Christianity, gay rights, etc. Just show some common courtesy to ANYONE you meet. You don't know what they're going through.
Holly: We love because He first loved us. ~1 John 4:19
Jesus dying for the sins of the world on the cross- how much more of a powerful way can you say "I love you?' He also makes very clear the two commandments: love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself. Nowhere is there any subtext that says love your neighbor as yourself....EXCEPT if he's gay, black, weird, pink, straight, yellow, male, female, a dog....NO. There are no exceptions. Period.
I've mentioned this in a post or two previously, but I think love just goes beyond love. I believe love also comes with acceptance. Jesus loves who we are, everything about us, flaws and all. I don't think you can love somebody without accepting all of them. Now that goes without saying that you don't have to fully adopt their lifestyle choices- no. That's not it at all. But stay open-minded and be respectful. Eventually you look past all the things that originally turned you off from them and you see them for who they really are; a child of God, a living, breathing human being. If you really think about it, when you boil everything down, we are all essentially the same. We are all created in the image of God. I know I need to remember this when I yell at the questionable drivers I encounter on a daily basis (I have terrible road rage).
I'm caught thinking of Westboro Baptist Church. This is an institution that is supposed to be proclaiming the love of Christ. Instead, they spread nothing but utter hate and ignorance and oppose anything that threatens their little box full of blasphemy that they've sadly put themselves in. They absolutely refuse to listen to any reason whatsoever and they believe they are perfectly valid. I do not consider them a church. I do not consider their members to be Christians. Heck, I don't even know if the life I'M living will be considered Christian when I am judged by God at the end of my earthly life. But it's spelled out as clear as day: we are called to love. And I'm doing my best to do just that. Please let me know if you see me doing otherwise.
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Happy (belated) birthday blog!!!!
Holly: Ladies and germs, we are totally stoked to announce that yesterday (August 20th...we're a day late, ya know. Jobs and stuff) was the 2 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF THE LAUNCH OF THIS BLOG!!!!!!!! :D *insert cheesy applause*
It still amazes me that it's still going strong. We recently launched it on Facebook and, personally, I love sharing our posts there. Facebook is a great platform. But once again, we're not concerned about how many followers we have, how many comments we get- we just love writing and sharing life with people. So if you like what you read, great. If you want to leave a comment, great. If not, we're going to keep writing, even if we just keep writing into nothingness.
Life has changed for me so much in just the past month alone that I simply am beyond eager to see where this time next year will bring me. I thank God every day for what I have. I dearly appreciate all of you who do follow along with us on this crazy journey called life. So keep having your coffee dates, keep seeking the joy in your life, keep praying, keep having faith, keep laughing, smiling, breathing, living! :)
Kelly: In 2 year's time, we both have graduated from college, moved twice, met Colin and Brad, got into Lord of the Rings and Sherlock, went through 3 roommates, adopted two cats, lost a friend (not by death but by other choices), lost our Grandpa, had a slew of jobs and downfalls and now have landed full-time (well...sort of for me) jobs and a lot of goodies in between.
WOW!!!!
It's surreal and amazing at how fast the time goes. Really. It's incredible! Like Holly said, we've done this for the last two years not to get "fans" or likes, to gain readers as fast as we can or ask for a slew of comments and shares. No. We do this for us and all of you! It has been our goal for us to discuss a topic so that someone out there can read it and say "yes! I've been there" or "well, not exactly, but this is what I think about it." The comments, views, shares and likes don't matter to us at all! I must say, it has been a blast looking back what has gone on in our lives the past 2 years. The growths, challenges and developments we have gained has been nothing other. We are humbled and blessed that there are many of you going on this journey with us! Thank you all so much for ANOTHER year! Here's to two more and many to come!
It still amazes me that it's still going strong. We recently launched it on Facebook and, personally, I love sharing our posts there. Facebook is a great platform. But once again, we're not concerned about how many followers we have, how many comments we get- we just love writing and sharing life with people. So if you like what you read, great. If you want to leave a comment, great. If not, we're going to keep writing, even if we just keep writing into nothingness.
Life has changed for me so much in just the past month alone that I simply am beyond eager to see where this time next year will bring me. I thank God every day for what I have. I dearly appreciate all of you who do follow along with us on this crazy journey called life. So keep having your coffee dates, keep seeking the joy in your life, keep praying, keep having faith, keep laughing, smiling, breathing, living! :)
Kelly: In 2 year's time, we both have graduated from college, moved twice, met Colin and Brad, got into Lord of the Rings and Sherlock, went through 3 roommates, adopted two cats, lost a friend (not by death but by other choices), lost our Grandpa, had a slew of jobs and downfalls and now have landed full-time (well...sort of for me) jobs and a lot of goodies in between.
WOW!!!!
It's surreal and amazing at how fast the time goes. Really. It's incredible! Like Holly said, we've done this for the last two years not to get "fans" or likes, to gain readers as fast as we can or ask for a slew of comments and shares. No. We do this for us and all of you! It has been our goal for us to discuss a topic so that someone out there can read it and say "yes! I've been there" or "well, not exactly, but this is what I think about it." The comments, views, shares and likes don't matter to us at all! I must say, it has been a blast looking back what has gone on in our lives the past 2 years. The growths, challenges and developments we have gained has been nothing other. We are humbled and blessed that there are many of you going on this journey with us! Thank you all so much for ANOTHER year! Here's to two more and many to come!
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| August 2011: Taken shortly after publishing our very first post. |
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| August 2012: Taken one year exactly after the publication of our very first post. |
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| August 2013: Taken 2 years and one day exactly after publication of first post. We look sleepy :] |
Sunday, August 18, 2013
What we are thankful for.
Kelly: In Sunday School this morning, at the end of our class, we were asked to write down some things that we are currently thankful for. This is what we both wrote (mine's short because we ran out of time). I have more and MANY more things that I am so thankful for, but this is just what I wrote down:
*God, *My Bible, *Family, *Friends, *my relationship with Christ, *church, *my job, *my co-workers, *my house, *my health, *my cats, *my car, *love, *food, *my church family, *open-mindedness, *cleanliness, *my phone, *my patients I care for, *hope in Christ, *joy, *being positive, *optimism, *perseverance, *healing, *grace.
Holly: I actually managed to write down 30 things, although there could have been so many more. I just wrote these as they came to me. Blessings are all around! Take the time to seek them out and enjoy them! :)
*God *my relationship with Christ *my relationship with Kelly *family, Mom and Dad *my friends *my job at UK *my job at Old Navy *Yoda and Wiley *my car *my apartment *the power of music *coffee *Berea Baptist Church *church choir *my Berea support network *H and K Chronicles *sharing life with people *the hard times in my life *the power of prayer *reading *Lord of the Rings *sleep *nature *clothes I love and feel good in *the Bible and how it speaks to me *love *joy *laughter *my personality and enthusiasm *our Europe trip in 2 years
*God, *My Bible, *Family, *Friends, *my relationship with Christ, *church, *my job, *my co-workers, *my house, *my health, *my cats, *my car, *love, *food, *my church family, *open-mindedness, *cleanliness, *my phone, *my patients I care for, *hope in Christ, *joy, *being positive, *optimism, *perseverance, *healing, *grace.
Holly: I actually managed to write down 30 things, although there could have been so many more. I just wrote these as they came to me. Blessings are all around! Take the time to seek them out and enjoy them! :)
*God *my relationship with Christ *my relationship with Kelly *family, Mom and Dad *my friends *my job at UK *my job at Old Navy *Yoda and Wiley *my car *my apartment *the power of music *coffee *Berea Baptist Church *church choir *my Berea support network *H and K Chronicles *sharing life with people *the hard times in my life *the power of prayer *reading *Lord of the Rings *sleep *nature *clothes I love and feel good in *the Bible and how it speaks to me *love *joy *laughter *my personality and enthusiasm *our Europe trip in 2 years
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
There's always hope
Holly: Life has majorly turned for me in just a few days. It's amazing the kind of transformations that can occur in one's life, even in such a short amount of time. A week ago today I received a phone call: the full-time job I applied for back in May was being offered to me. It's in my field, it's not teaching (something I have no desire to do....right now, anyway. Things change), the pay is decent, and it's at UK, somewhere I have great experiences with. I'm three days in and I just can't help but think: This! Is this what I've been missing?
Up until a week ago, I was working two jobs. One was in the pathology department at UK, pulling slides for physicians and faculty and getting mail. It was 15 hours a week and I made just a tad over $8/hour. Looking back on it now, it's ridiculous; I was driving almost an hour each way, working for three hours a day, then coming home. There were many days in which I could only put $10 or $15 in my gas tank just to GET to work each day. Please don't misunderstand me; it was not in vain, by any means. Even though the hours and pay were so-so, I was filling large shoes in such a short amount of time, and I was often thanked and praised for doing the work I did (Which, let me also say, that's not what I was in it for, although the thanks and recognition were definitely nice). I enjoyed the people in the department as well. But I was barely scraping by, to say the least. My second job is at Old Navy; I'm still there now. But since I was spending so much on gas already, driving to UK's campus, I cut back to weekends only at ON. Most Saturdays and Sundays I worked only 4.5ish hours a day. When it's all said and done, altogether, between 2 jobs, I was making just about $200 a week. I spend that much on my share of rent once a month. So yeah. Things were tight. Really tight. Like, losing-sleep-over-potentially-overdrafting-and-not-being-able-to-pay-bills/student loans-rent tight. Literally sick to my stomach with worry. I was envious of others. I would walk past employees in the hospital and would literally think to myself: Yep, they don't have to worry about money. Yes, I'm serious. I drove myself mad over this. Let me say this: it is not God's will for us to worry! He wants us to trust Him. This has taken many, many years and sleepless nights to get to this.
I looked over my journal recently. My worries about money have spanned years. Yes, you read this correctly. YEARS. And now, I feel all those worries just disappearing. God has tremendously blessed me with this job; it's more than enough to meet my needs and then some. He wants us to trust Him. He wants us to have hope. I know there are some of you who are reading this and are going through the same struggles, or perhaps different ones. Please, please, please, please, PLEASE...don't give up. I know it's hard. God doesn't leave you, even when He feels millions of miles away. He WILL provide, even if He just takes you somewhere else. And if you don't believe in God, then I believe. I believe in you. I believe in the power of lives being changed in an instant. It happens. Let our stories encourage you. Have hope. Have faith. I know it's a terrible cliche, but things do get better. I'm a firm believer of that. We were all put on this earth for a reason, for a purpose. All will be revealed in time. Just hold on!
Even darkness must pass.
Kelly: Sometimes, like now, I wonder "why me?" What did I do to deserve what I got? What I have? Why is it that I am blessed so greatly yet there are those who I know and don't know that are struggling severely with a given situation? It's God. I'm not trying to convert those of our followers who don't believe in Christ, rather I'm just sharing my own experiences and what He has done for me and through me! But if I can say anything, it's just hang in there. Believe! Believe in something or someone! I believe in Christ; what about you?
After I graduated from Berea and prior to getting offered my current job was a period of about 3 months. I can say without a doubt those were some of the darkest days of my life. I'm certain I experienced some sort of depression. I turned into someone I did not recognize. I was hurt, sad, lonely and angry. There were some days I dreaded getting out of bed in the morning, because I know I'd have to face another day of not hearing anything from a job, or logging onto my computer and checking my gmail account because I know there would be a job rejection or two, or turning on my cell phone and receiving no voice mails asking for a call back or to schedule an interview. I cried myself so many nights to sleep, begging God to just get me through one more day. My insides curled with anger when Holly would leave for work and I'd sit on the couch and bid her good-bye, then when she came home I'd say anything just to pick a fight. Just to have a reason to vent and blow off steam. I'd go to Walmart or Walgreens to get something just to find an excuse to get out of the house. A time or two I remember having the conversations, wondering how in the world we were going to pay next month's rent or make ends meet. I'm telling you; I've felt like I was in the dark. It sucks. It HURTS. But as famously quoted in The Two Towers; "even darkness must pass." And it did. It does.
So this is for those of our readers and followers (or someone who just happened to stumble upon this) who are struggling and going through whatever hurt or struggle they're going through. Hold onto those close to you; don't push them away. I shared a part of my story because I've felt strongly to do so for quite some time now. Someone out there is feeling the way I felt, and they don't know what to do. Please, whoever you are, please don't give up. I was about ready to throw in the towel and move back to Ohio when I got the call for my dream job. God is NOT giving up on you; He didn't give up on me. Now whether or not you reader or readers believe in God is entirely your choice, but I found my hope. I found hope in God; the one and only! There is someone or something that is keeping you going, whether or not you know it.
I lift up my eyes into the mountains; where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord; the Maker of Heaven and Earth. Psalm 121:1-2 (NIV)
Up until a week ago, I was working two jobs. One was in the pathology department at UK, pulling slides for physicians and faculty and getting mail. It was 15 hours a week and I made just a tad over $8/hour. Looking back on it now, it's ridiculous; I was driving almost an hour each way, working for three hours a day, then coming home. There were many days in which I could only put $10 or $15 in my gas tank just to GET to work each day. Please don't misunderstand me; it was not in vain, by any means. Even though the hours and pay were so-so, I was filling large shoes in such a short amount of time, and I was often thanked and praised for doing the work I did (Which, let me also say, that's not what I was in it for, although the thanks and recognition were definitely nice). I enjoyed the people in the department as well. But I was barely scraping by, to say the least. My second job is at Old Navy; I'm still there now. But since I was spending so much on gas already, driving to UK's campus, I cut back to weekends only at ON. Most Saturdays and Sundays I worked only 4.5ish hours a day. When it's all said and done, altogether, between 2 jobs, I was making just about $200 a week. I spend that much on my share of rent once a month. So yeah. Things were tight. Really tight. Like, losing-sleep-over-potentially-overdrafting-and-not-being-able-to-pay-bills/student loans-rent tight. Literally sick to my stomach with worry. I was envious of others. I would walk past employees in the hospital and would literally think to myself: Yep, they don't have to worry about money. Yes, I'm serious. I drove myself mad over this. Let me say this: it is not God's will for us to worry! He wants us to trust Him. This has taken many, many years and sleepless nights to get to this.
I looked over my journal recently. My worries about money have spanned years. Yes, you read this correctly. YEARS. And now, I feel all those worries just disappearing. God has tremendously blessed me with this job; it's more than enough to meet my needs and then some. He wants us to trust Him. He wants us to have hope. I know there are some of you who are reading this and are going through the same struggles, or perhaps different ones. Please, please, please, please, PLEASE...don't give up. I know it's hard. God doesn't leave you, even when He feels millions of miles away. He WILL provide, even if He just takes you somewhere else. And if you don't believe in God, then I believe. I believe in you. I believe in the power of lives being changed in an instant. It happens. Let our stories encourage you. Have hope. Have faith. I know it's a terrible cliche, but things do get better. I'm a firm believer of that. We were all put on this earth for a reason, for a purpose. All will be revealed in time. Just hold on!
Even darkness must pass.
Kelly: Sometimes, like now, I wonder "why me?" What did I do to deserve what I got? What I have? Why is it that I am blessed so greatly yet there are those who I know and don't know that are struggling severely with a given situation? It's God. I'm not trying to convert those of our followers who don't believe in Christ, rather I'm just sharing my own experiences and what He has done for me and through me! But if I can say anything, it's just hang in there. Believe! Believe in something or someone! I believe in Christ; what about you?
After I graduated from Berea and prior to getting offered my current job was a period of about 3 months. I can say without a doubt those were some of the darkest days of my life. I'm certain I experienced some sort of depression. I turned into someone I did not recognize. I was hurt, sad, lonely and angry. There were some days I dreaded getting out of bed in the morning, because I know I'd have to face another day of not hearing anything from a job, or logging onto my computer and checking my gmail account because I know there would be a job rejection or two, or turning on my cell phone and receiving no voice mails asking for a call back or to schedule an interview. I cried myself so many nights to sleep, begging God to just get me through one more day. My insides curled with anger when Holly would leave for work and I'd sit on the couch and bid her good-bye, then when she came home I'd say anything just to pick a fight. Just to have a reason to vent and blow off steam. I'd go to Walmart or Walgreens to get something just to find an excuse to get out of the house. A time or two I remember having the conversations, wondering how in the world we were going to pay next month's rent or make ends meet. I'm telling you; I've felt like I was in the dark. It sucks. It HURTS. But as famously quoted in The Two Towers; "even darkness must pass." And it did. It does.
So this is for those of our readers and followers (or someone who just happened to stumble upon this) who are struggling and going through whatever hurt or struggle they're going through. Hold onto those close to you; don't push them away. I shared a part of my story because I've felt strongly to do so for quite some time now. Someone out there is feeling the way I felt, and they don't know what to do. Please, whoever you are, please don't give up. I was about ready to throw in the towel and move back to Ohio when I got the call for my dream job. God is NOT giving up on you; He didn't give up on me. Now whether or not you reader or readers believe in God is entirely your choice, but I found my hope. I found hope in God; the one and only! There is someone or something that is keeping you going, whether or not you know it.
I lift up my eyes into the mountains; where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord; the Maker of Heaven and Earth. Psalm 121:1-2 (NIV)
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