A REASON TO SING

I'm pretty sure that's a Dr. Who quote. But whatever.

Anyways.

A few fundamental truths that I've been learning:

1. SPREAD JOY EVERYWHERE

I've talked to a few people who use being busy as an excuse to be a jerk. Unintentionally of course, but I've realized the importance of recognizing that EVERYONE struggles. That everyone has deadlines, stress, and too many responsibilities. That everyone has a sticky past. And that every job is hard. And every job is important. Because most jobs include people. Whether you're taking care of them, teaching them, or meeting deadlines for them....they are stressful. So, I need to choose to spread joy and grace. Everyone needs that. A lot of it. 

And it's what sets you apart. Be joyful always. Don't stifle it because not everyone is excited about life!

2. GRATITUDE CHANGES THINGS

I've always heard the phrase "Gratitude turns what you have into enough". And to be honest it's always been a in-one-ear-and-out-the-other phrase. But I think it changes your perspective and in turn changes you. 

3. STOP DOING SOMETHING BECAUSE IT'S WHAT YOU'VE ALWAYS DONE

I feel like women have a secret code. We all have something we hate about ourselves. If you get any of us together for long enough, the subject will turn to food, diets, and things we wish were smaller (or bigger). And I've been in this club for basically forever. Until recently. I was with friends and they were ripping themselves apart and I felt like I had to speak up and say something too because that's just what we do. But the truth of it is...I'm completely loved exactly how I am. And I'm okay and even happy with how I look. I feel like there's something wrong with that. Like it's not okay. Like I should be on a diet and worried sick about losing 5 pounds. But...I'm not. I'm good. And you are too.

4. JESUS CHANGES EVERYTHING

This is a duh. But it's a truth that has literally changed everything. I don't have to carry shame around like it's my job. I'm free! I remember someone telling me once "I think you'll get over being insecure when you have a boyfriend". Yeah, no. I feel like Jesus has been renewing my mind and helping me to see myself the way He sees me. I'm not there yet, but I'm getting there. He really makes everything better. He's been teaching me so much. He gives me a reason to sing. He's made me exactly how I'm supposed to be. 

Soften your heart friend. Allow Him to change you. It won't be what you expected. It'll be better.