So, as a single woman in 2009 I must say that sometimes the men in my life...well the single men in the world just need to "man up" and get over their commitment phobia crapola!
What is up with the Christian men anyway? There are so many of us women that would love to be married and have a family, but the men in our lives are scared or something. And the more I study the Bible and pray and seek God's will for that aspect of my life; the more I see that the Bible says things like "a noble wife who can find?" FIND the way it is used in the OT and NT is an ACTION word. God is not just going to hit men and women on the forehead with a 2x4 and say "this is the one." The guys need to do the pursuing, the searching and seeking.
Meanwhile, we women don't just stay home whiling away the time. We have to be going about our lives, serving the Lord and being totally committed to Him and His will. We need to work on becoming like the Proverbs 31 woman, but with a modern adaptation. God does not expect us to spin our own wool or anything, but HE does expect us to be good stewards of everything HE has given us.
We women need to be busy becoming women of God and finding what the Lord's will is for our lives and then going out and working to fulfill that purpose. As we women do this, maybe it will give the guys time to figure their stuff out. This single girl can only hope and pray!
-ME-
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
Moving!
It seems like it was just a couple of months ago that I was loading up the U-haul to move across the country. It has been 2 years! So much has happened since July of 2007. The biggest change being that I earned my Master's degree! So much work in such a short period of time and now so many more doors are open to me, I just have to figure out the best one to walk through.
Before I do that I have one more major hurdle to cross...I have to pack up my belongings and move to a new apartment. My townhouse hasn't been terrible, but I found a place that I like a lot better, will be much happier in and costs LESS per month in rent! God is awesome!!! But, in order to gain that peace of mind I have a lot of work to do to get into my new place.
I'm very excited about my new place and I'll try to get a few pictures up next week. It is 2 bedrooms and 1 bath, so I'm losing the extra half bath, but I'm gaining more closet space! I'd rather have a coat closet to an extra bathroom to keep clean! It has an eat-in kitchen and a nice sized living room.
I'm downsizing some furniture, and I think the plans I have in my head will make this place a welcoming home for myself, my cat and all my friends. I hope that my friends feel comfortable and welcome in the new place, because I love to be the hostess!
So that is what is going on in my life right now...I've been procrastinating on packing up, because I hate to pack, but zero hour is coming and I have to get it done.
As I pack up my belongings and go through them and decide what mementos from my life I want to keep, I wish y'all a very blessed weekend. Find time to look over your homes and take a few minutes to peruse the memories you have as you enjoy your belongings. Life goes so quickly that we need to take time once in awhile to enjoy the Auld Lang Syne.
-ME-
Before I do that I have one more major hurdle to cross...I have to pack up my belongings and move to a new apartment. My townhouse hasn't been terrible, but I found a place that I like a lot better, will be much happier in and costs LESS per month in rent! God is awesome!!! But, in order to gain that peace of mind I have a lot of work to do to get into my new place.
I'm very excited about my new place and I'll try to get a few pictures up next week. It is 2 bedrooms and 1 bath, so I'm losing the extra half bath, but I'm gaining more closet space! I'd rather have a coat closet to an extra bathroom to keep clean! It has an eat-in kitchen and a nice sized living room.
I'm downsizing some furniture, and I think the plans I have in my head will make this place a welcoming home for myself, my cat and all my friends. I hope that my friends feel comfortable and welcome in the new place, because I love to be the hostess!
So that is what is going on in my life right now...I've been procrastinating on packing up, because I hate to pack, but zero hour is coming and I have to get it done.
As I pack up my belongings and go through them and decide what mementos from my life I want to keep, I wish y'all a very blessed weekend. Find time to look over your homes and take a few minutes to peruse the memories you have as you enjoy your belongings. Life goes so quickly that we need to take time once in awhile to enjoy the Auld Lang Syne.
-ME-
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Memorial Day- non commercialized
America is the land of opportunity. We come up with holidays to honor a group of people that deserve to be honored, and within very little time that holiday becomes a mecca of commercialism. Memorial Day is no different. Most people are growing up thinking that Memorial Day is a day to see mattresses and have cook-outs. And it is, but it is SO MUCH MORE than that!
Memorial Day is a day to honor those in our military (past and present) that have paid the ultimate price for us to continue to enjoy all our freedoms. It is a day to say "Thank You" to the military members we know or see, and their whole family and circle of close friends.
These days service in the military is completely voluntary, they even take an oath stating that they were not coerced into joining. Knowing that, and knowing the climate that we are in-America is once again involved in a bloody and deadly conflict that is supported by the majority of the nation-it is amazing and humbling that so many people are willing to risk it all, for an ideal.
America can be (and has been) described as post-Christian, but it is still an ideal. The idea of America and the dream of being here and living in this blessed nation is something that thousands and thousands of people risk their lives to achieve. Yes, a lot of them come here illegally, and that is not good. But they are coming here because it is AMERICA. Those 7 letters encapsulate so much, that I know I take for granted.
I take for granted that when I go to the grocery store there will be healthy food on the shelves and I'll be able to afford it. I take for granted that my tap water is clean, and that I have 2 toilets to use in my townhouse. I take for granted the heat in the winter and a/c in the summer. And being able to go the doctor, or look up medical questions online. Not to mention the religious freedom we have and the safety.
We have gun problems, and violence is an issue (I should know!), but my house isn't under the threat of bombings everyday, and people don't target me because I go to church, or even that I am all for female pastors! I'm liberated in many ways and I do take it for granted sometimes.
Yet, in my doctoral studies (yep I can say that now, I've started them!!!) I am learning just how high the cost of my freedoms are, and the battle field deaths are just the beginning. There is CSD (combat stress disorder aka CSR combat stress reaction) and what I call HSR (homefront stress reaction). HSR is not in the DSM, but it happens, being in the rear while a loved one is down range or off on extended training is stressful and takes it toll. Of course there are the injuries as well. The list could go on and on.
All of this to say that we owe the military our sincere gratitude for their willingness to answer Uncle Sam's call. And don't just focus on those in uniform, but also those that serve with them: spouse, child, parent, sibling, friend.
Happy Memorial Day, thank you to the military family and may God continue to see fit to bless the USA!!!
In Christ,
ME
Memorial Day is a day to honor those in our military (past and present) that have paid the ultimate price for us to continue to enjoy all our freedoms. It is a day to say "Thank You" to the military members we know or see, and their whole family and circle of close friends.
These days service in the military is completely voluntary, they even take an oath stating that they were not coerced into joining. Knowing that, and knowing the climate that we are in-America is once again involved in a bloody and deadly conflict that is supported by the majority of the nation-it is amazing and humbling that so many people are willing to risk it all, for an ideal.
America can be (and has been) described as post-Christian, but it is still an ideal. The idea of America and the dream of being here and living in this blessed nation is something that thousands and thousands of people risk their lives to achieve. Yes, a lot of them come here illegally, and that is not good. But they are coming here because it is AMERICA. Those 7 letters encapsulate so much, that I know I take for granted.
I take for granted that when I go to the grocery store there will be healthy food on the shelves and I'll be able to afford it. I take for granted that my tap water is clean, and that I have 2 toilets to use in my townhouse. I take for granted the heat in the winter and a/c in the summer. And being able to go the doctor, or look up medical questions online. Not to mention the religious freedom we have and the safety.
We have gun problems, and violence is an issue (I should know!), but my house isn't under the threat of bombings everyday, and people don't target me because I go to church, or even that I am all for female pastors! I'm liberated in many ways and I do take it for granted sometimes.
Yet, in my doctoral studies (yep I can say that now, I've started them!!!) I am learning just how high the cost of my freedoms are, and the battle field deaths are just the beginning. There is CSD (combat stress disorder aka CSR combat stress reaction) and what I call HSR (homefront stress reaction). HSR is not in the DSM, but it happens, being in the rear while a loved one is down range or off on extended training is stressful and takes it toll. Of course there are the injuries as well. The list could go on and on.
All of this to say that we owe the military our sincere gratitude for their willingness to answer Uncle Sam's call. And don't just focus on those in uniform, but also those that serve with them: spouse, child, parent, sibling, friend.
Happy Memorial Day, thank you to the military family and may God continue to see fit to bless the USA!!!
In Christ,
ME
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Life Choices...What to Do???
So here I am at a juncture in life. I just graduated and earned my Master's degree. I'm planning on working toward my PhD, my yearning for that degree probably won't change, but I do wonder about a couple of things.
1. Do I want to still be a full time student?
2. Wouldn't it be good to get some experience in my field?
3. It would be nice to have a bit more flexibility in my budget.
I love school and I'll probably be a life long learner, it is how I love the Lord with all my heart. Yet, I also have this passion to work with military families and with women that have been abused. I know that the education represented by a PhD will help me in that endeavor, but yet I do have a degree NOW---and I'd like to get out there.
I'm praying about job opportunities here in L-burg so I can get out there, make some $$$ and hopefully help others. Yet, I also think about everything I DON'T know yet, do I know enough to be a help to my clients? Is it arrogant to think that I do? What do I want to do this summer and fall as regards to a job. I will stay in classes, the question is do I work and take 2 class/semester or do I take 4 classes/semester and stay where I am.
Please pray for me and feel offer any advice you may have. THANKS!!!
-ME-
1. Do I want to still be a full time student?
2. Wouldn't it be good to get some experience in my field?
3. It would be nice to have a bit more flexibility in my budget.
I love school and I'll probably be a life long learner, it is how I love the Lord with all my heart. Yet, I also have this passion to work with military families and with women that have been abused. I know that the education represented by a PhD will help me in that endeavor, but yet I do have a degree NOW---and I'd like to get out there.
I'm praying about job opportunities here in L-burg so I can get out there, make some $$$ and hopefully help others. Yet, I also think about everything I DON'T know yet, do I know enough to be a help to my clients? Is it arrogant to think that I do? What do I want to do this summer and fall as regards to a job. I will stay in classes, the question is do I work and take 2 class/semester or do I take 4 classes/semester and stay where I am.
Please pray for me and feel offer any advice you may have. THANKS!!!
-ME-
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Commencement
Congrats to me! I've officially graduated from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary with an M.A. in Pastoral Counseling. I am one step closer to my ultimate goal of my doctorate in PACO with the focus on military counseling! How exciting is this??? I'm tired, but excited to begin the next step of the journey.
Yet I also wonder, am I really ready for this? Am I capable of doing everything that needs to be done to fulfill the requirements of a PhD? I'm not talking about the academics, because when I put my mind to it I can read and write. It is the emotional toll that I'm more worried about. I'm focusing on a subject that hits very close to home- PTSD. Have I dealt with my personal demons enough to be a source of help to others? As a counselor I can't be battling my pain and my past as I'm trying to help others in the same fight.
I feel like this is the path that God wants me to take. Yes, I probably would have made a great elementary teacher, and that is what a lot of my friends and family thought I should do, and it is what my undergrad degree is in. Life takes many turns, and none of them surprise God. His overall plan still remains in tact, and I feel like God wants me to use the evil that I have experienced to help others, and I yearn to do the Lord's will.
I also yearn to be a good, caring friend to all those that I meet. Sometimes I'm good at this, and sometimes I'm not. I'd like to blame it on the fact that I don't sleep much, but that is just an excuse and I hate excuses. So, this summer I'm making it a goal to be a better friend, sister, daughter. I need to be the kind of friend that I look for in other people.
Also this summer I'll be working on classes. There is no time like the present to begin the next part of my academic journey and get this party started! The sooner I start the sooner I can finish and be out there, hopefully spreading the love of Christ as I help people overcome the trauma they have experienced.
I'm living proof that while life does not go back to the way it was pre-trauma, it can still be great. I have my problems, but I also have a source of joy that wasn't there before and wouldn't be there if it wasn't for what I experienced. As I have often said- the pain teaches us to relish and cherish the good times. I also know that My Redeemer lives and that He loves me and is always there for me, but I have to be willing to take His hand. He doesn't force anything on us, he offers and we have to accept.
So while I do worry and continue to work on things with a counselor, I am convinced that I'm on the path the Lord has for me, and that in His time I'll be ready and equipped.
In Christ,
Paige
Yet I also wonder, am I really ready for this? Am I capable of doing everything that needs to be done to fulfill the requirements of a PhD? I'm not talking about the academics, because when I put my mind to it I can read and write. It is the emotional toll that I'm more worried about. I'm focusing on a subject that hits very close to home- PTSD. Have I dealt with my personal demons enough to be a source of help to others? As a counselor I can't be battling my pain and my past as I'm trying to help others in the same fight.
I feel like this is the path that God wants me to take. Yes, I probably would have made a great elementary teacher, and that is what a lot of my friends and family thought I should do, and it is what my undergrad degree is in. Life takes many turns, and none of them surprise God. His overall plan still remains in tact, and I feel like God wants me to use the evil that I have experienced to help others, and I yearn to do the Lord's will.
I also yearn to be a good, caring friend to all those that I meet. Sometimes I'm good at this, and sometimes I'm not. I'd like to blame it on the fact that I don't sleep much, but that is just an excuse and I hate excuses. So, this summer I'm making it a goal to be a better friend, sister, daughter. I need to be the kind of friend that I look for in other people.
Also this summer I'll be working on classes. There is no time like the present to begin the next part of my academic journey and get this party started! The sooner I start the sooner I can finish and be out there, hopefully spreading the love of Christ as I help people overcome the trauma they have experienced.
I'm living proof that while life does not go back to the way it was pre-trauma, it can still be great. I have my problems, but I also have a source of joy that wasn't there before and wouldn't be there if it wasn't for what I experienced. As I have often said- the pain teaches us to relish and cherish the good times. I also know that My Redeemer lives and that He loves me and is always there for me, but I have to be willing to take His hand. He doesn't force anything on us, he offers and we have to accept.
So while I do worry and continue to work on things with a counselor, I am convinced that I'm on the path the Lord has for me, and that in His time I'll be ready and equipped.
In Christ,
Paige
Sunday, May 3, 2009
And Down the Stretch I Come...
Dear One and All,
Today is Sunday May 3, 2009 and in just 6 little days (that is 142 hours as of right now, give or take a few minutes) I will be walking across the TRBC stage to receive my [fake-real one will be mailed out in July] Master's level diploma! That's right folks...pretty soon I'll be a bonafide smart person...and well on my way to my PhD!!! How amazing is that?
As I reflect upon all that has gone in my life, I have to say that I am bit proud of myself. I've overcome a lot of hurdles to earn each diploma that I have, which is way I display them at home. Those framed pieces of paper reflect more than just a bunch of papers I wrote, books I read, and facts I've memorized. They reflect so many years of life, with the accompanying joys and trials that come with life.
It is rainy and gloomy today, and normally that affects my mood, but not today. Today I'm exhausted and stressed because I have 2 finals on Tuesday, but mostly I'm excited and full of joy. There is so much going on this week and it all looks to be good stuff. On Thursday I'm going out to lunch and bowling with a bunch of my friends.
Which brings to another thought---it has taken awhile, but I have a great group of friends here and I don't know what I'd do without each of them. They are all such interesting people and serve a distinct role in my life. I may not have a large group of friends, but I have some great ones and that is what is really important to me. So I'm giving a shout out to all of my VA friends!
After bowling on Thursday I'm going to the seminary banquet. I get to get all dressed and go out to eat and then we are going roller-skating afterward. Should be a marvelous evening. And as icing on the cake, my family arrives on Thursday.
Friday begins the pomp and circumstance of graduation. Saturday is the actual day of the 2 ceremonies, and Sunday is Mother's day and I am blessed to have my Mom, Aunt and Grandma here for the day!!! That probably won't happen again.
So many blessings to focus on this week. I've needed this for awhile now, and I'm planning on soaking up all the joy that I can this week and remembering that it is only due to the Lord's provision, love, mercy and grace that I have so many wonderful things going on right now.
THANK YOU LORD!!!
Paige
Today is Sunday May 3, 2009 and in just 6 little days (that is 142 hours as of right now, give or take a few minutes) I will be walking across the TRBC stage to receive my [fake-real one will be mailed out in July] Master's level diploma! That's right folks...pretty soon I'll be a bonafide smart person...and well on my way to my PhD!!! How amazing is that?
As I reflect upon all that has gone in my life, I have to say that I am bit proud of myself. I've overcome a lot of hurdles to earn each diploma that I have, which is way I display them at home. Those framed pieces of paper reflect more than just a bunch of papers I wrote, books I read, and facts I've memorized. They reflect so many years of life, with the accompanying joys and trials that come with life.
It is rainy and gloomy today, and normally that affects my mood, but not today. Today I'm exhausted and stressed because I have 2 finals on Tuesday, but mostly I'm excited and full of joy. There is so much going on this week and it all looks to be good stuff. On Thursday I'm going out to lunch and bowling with a bunch of my friends.
Which brings to another thought---it has taken awhile, but I have a great group of friends here and I don't know what I'd do without each of them. They are all such interesting people and serve a distinct role in my life. I may not have a large group of friends, but I have some great ones and that is what is really important to me. So I'm giving a shout out to all of my VA friends!
After bowling on Thursday I'm going to the seminary banquet. I get to get all dressed and go out to eat and then we are going roller-skating afterward. Should be a marvelous evening. And as icing on the cake, my family arrives on Thursday.
Friday begins the pomp and circumstance of graduation. Saturday is the actual day of the 2 ceremonies, and Sunday is Mother's day and I am blessed to have my Mom, Aunt and Grandma here for the day!!! That probably won't happen again.
So many blessings to focus on this week. I've needed this for awhile now, and I'm planning on soaking up all the joy that I can this week and remembering that it is only due to the Lord's provision, love, mercy and grace that I have so many wonderful things going on right now.
THANK YOU LORD!!!
Paige
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