At first, I thought God brought this to mind so that I may share my experiences with humor and chocolate. However, He told me it would be mostly my day-to-day journey: the ups and downs I go through.
I promise transparency, always. So when I said, "I am ready," I didn't know I'd be sharing in real-time.
But God!!!
In Streams in the Desert verses:
2 Corinthians 7:5, "We were harassed at every turn."
It became clear that I would share with those going through it right now. If what I'm going through will help others. I am ready!!
17 April 2025
April showers bring May flowers.
It's 0500, I've been listening to the storm since it first woke me around 0345. There's something about spring storms! Although in fall, I'm excited about its storms, too.
Growing up in Michigan, one learns to appreciate the seasons.
So, I must do the same when it pertains to my personal life.
The difficulty level may change because it's easy to do something I don't want to do...
SIKE!!!!
Anyone who knows me knows to give me time to process. Inside my mind, I may have a temper tantrum or two. Is anyone fully adaptable to change without needing a moment?
If I were one for research, I would test that theory.
However, would answers be legit?
I suppose if there were an incentive, but...
Fine! I will table this discussion for a later date.
G'night!
Stay Blessed
Shanti Marie
8 April 2025
I love the devotionals Streams in the Desert and Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence. I have turned to them during difficult times. Growing up, devotionals were read as a family following dinner. After high school, however, I didn't continue on my own.
I am a stubborn individual! Always have been. However, at 41, I'm working on not continuing to be.
Now, they are a part of my daily meditation. Both give reminders in the best forms: whether it be a whisper or the equivalent of a cast-iron skillet.
Our relationship with a Higher Power isn't for anyone's scrutiny!
Today's meditation included the following excerpt:
"I am with you and for you, your constant Companion and Provider. The question is whether you are with Me and for Me." Jesus Calling: pg. 103
Why is this the question, like Shakespeare's "To be or not to be"? How come it takes stubbornness.
No, let's say what it is!
PRIDE
Why is it so important to do it on my own? Working harder to prove it can be done whether than to ask for assistance. There is nothing wrong in asking for help; it is not a lack of strength.
"The secret of knowing God's complete sufficiency is in coming to the end of everything in ourselves and our circumstances.
Once we reach this point, we will stop seeking sympathy for our difficult situation or ill treatment, because we will recognize these things as the necessary conditions for blessings." Streams in the Desert, pg. 146
Stay Blessed
Shanti Marie
16 June 2024
A pity party is avoidable.
How’s that?
Bring to mind, for a moment, the goal! It will cause the pity to cease.
Pity, loathing, and self-doubt amongst all the rest of negative talk CANNOT stay around when blessings are the focus.
Blessedness, grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness spurts growth.
You are destined for great things, Queen!
As am I!
We are human beings!
Be present, active, alive!
This means we must continue to grow.
Understand, however, that personal transformation will be painful (paraphrasing Gary John Bishop)
And, believe it and/or like it or not, this is a fact!
To grow, I must be challenged!
Maybe even pushed out of my comfort zone.
Stay strong, warrior, the end is approaching. I stand with you, kindred,
Supporting you, near or far.
Stand firm, goddess!
This walk may be done alone.
Don’t veer off course,
Continue through to the finish!
Stay positive, even when it seems as if it’s impossible.
All will be worth it in the end!
During the hard times, focus on:
Small victories,
Lessons learned,
Always count the blessings.
You are loved!
You are never alone!
Stay Blessed💕
Shanti Marie
