When I was a kid, I waited to learn to swim and ride a bike until I could reached the ground with my feet.

The day I decided to go back to college was when I was fired as a kindergarten aide because I couldn’t spell and they said I wasn’t firm enough disciplining the children on the playground. I decided I wanted to go to college so I could be the boss. I then became a parole officer. What a turnaround!

Another discovery for me was about goal setting. It sounds so simple but I had never thought about it. I had seen a television show that fascinated me. A light bulb went on inside my head. I then used the people on my case load as guinea pigs for goal setting and they were good sports about it.

In my own life, change has been when I was ready for it. Change comes in different ways and at different times for each person. You will know when you are ready and life will look a little brighter.

There are difficult circumstances sometimes in which some may never have a prosperous experience. For captives in war, positive thinking may not rescue them. For impoverished children in some countries, Santa Claus does not arrive with bows and presents. For slaves, the deams of fame or riches is not on the horizon. There are many examples of those for whom just a day of freedom, health or basic dignity would be a dream come true.

Each of us strive for different things. Although I would welcome reaching for the stars or financial surplus, even if I received it I would have to make sure that I gave back to help those in need. I will never forget where I’ve come from. The faces and experiences I’ve encountered have made me who I am today. I am thankful for health, safety, freedom and a sound mind.

When you face difficult circumstances, know that you matter and still have value. Someone needs you. Value does not always have a monetary price tag. The heart is the most valuable of all.

Did you have a time in your life when someone encouraged you through a discouraging situation? Often, it is a small gesture with a big impact. Those little bits lift you back up and put you back on the path to discovering your purpose. Then, one day you can do the same for someone else.

The story began with my young adult experiences twenty years ago. My daughter pointed out to me that I was no longer the person in those stories, that I was more than that now. It was a very profound observation for a college age girl to make.

If I were to tell the story now, it would be about the growth I’ve experienced over the past ten years. The opportunities God has granted me have given me a new outlook. I agree with my daughter that I have come a long way.

One thing to keep in mind is that your story keeps changing.
It takes a lifetime to tell that story. Not all of us will have dramatic stories that are made into movies, but each one is worth telling, just the same.

If you are facing challenges at this time, know that the story is not over. You may see things in a different light ten or twenty years from now. Don’t get discouraged. There is always hope.

For all the heartache, someone will be there to bring comfort. For all that was lost, joy will be found. Confidence that was stripped away will be replaced with wings to soar. Yesterday you cried but today you will smile. No more will you fade into the background and let life pass you by. You will find purpose and join the dance.

One day, you will see your loved ones again. Distance will be replaced with hugs. The one you are seeking will be found. You will cherish what you’ve been given and give to those who need a hand. Relationships that were broken will be mended. No more will you keep words of encouragement to yourself. You will speak words that will bring wholeness to the brokenhearted.

When God has touched your heart, you will love instead of hate. Where there was strife, there will be stillness. There is a time for everything under heaven. For today, choose life.

It’s always easier to tell people what they want to hear but the truth can still be told in love without sidestepping crucial matters.

While reaching out in non-traditional ways works with those who would not otherwise be open to the Gospel, let’s also give due respect to the many pastors over the years who have served faithfully. Remember things like respecting our elders.

The media has opened doors that also come with responsibility. We have been given a great gift. We must be careful not to get caught up in becoming just another celebrity.

God knows and people are watching to see if we are consistent in our walk. These are just a few observations I’ve made while thinking about what I’ve seen. It makes me as an individual want to make a conscious effort to be a better person.

God knows my talents, education, experience and abilities. He know my desires. He is giving me an opportunity to rest after years of taking care of everyone else. My needs are met. I have my dog, a little yappy three pound chihuahua to keep me company.

I don’t know what the future holds or where He is leading but for now I’m trying to listen for God’s voice in the quiet moments.

Although there has been strife since the beginning of time, there are issues that are unique to our era. First, the developments since 1900 to today have been more than any other era has ever seen. In technology, we went from covered wagons to cars and going to the moon. We went from outhouses to electricity, telephones and the Internet on computers.

Socially, we have come a long way from understanding that slavery oppresses people to civil equality. Women are now being recognized for their talents. We try to be accepting of all our differences.

The more difficult concerns are that our young people are being pulled in so many different directions. We try to give them a firm foundation but once they strike out on their own, they make their own choices that we have no control of.

We may see danger ahead but our warnings are not heeded. This is where prayer comes in. The one thing we can do is pray. Pray every single day. Pray that God will watch over our grown young adults and keep them from harm. Pray that they will remember that they are never alone. Pray that they will remember that they are loved. Pray for all our kids. They need us more than e er before.

Parents throughout time have prayed for their adult children to return to the faith of their childhood. As young adults feel out their independence and strike out on their own, they can be pulled from influences in many directions. Parents cannot live their children’s lives for them but can pray and trust God to keep a watchful eye and guiding hand over them.

The scripture passage I find comfort in is Isaiah 43:5-7:
“Fear not, for I am with you. I will bring your descendants from the east and gather you from the west. I will say to the north, “Give them up. Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth.”. Everyone who is called by my name whom I have created for my glory I have formed him, yes I have made him.”

When my children were infants I dedicated them to the Lord. Just as parents did in the time of Moses, Samuel and Jesus, we continue to raise our children in the Lord. Do not lose hope. God will remember that day and hear our prayers. Even in tragedy, He will not forget. Hold onto the promises of old.

When I was a parole/probation agent I dealt with hurting families on a daily basis. They were angry, frustrated and hurting. They were unable to fix their adult loved one and looked to the criminal justice system for relief. They were discouraged when they didn’t see a change.

It’s easy to blame workers, God or ourselves when we painfully watch a loved one self destruct. Some even complete treatment programs whether religious or self help and continue to relapse.

I’m not a licensed or certified counselor. I’m just sharing my observation from seven years in the criminal justice field. There are no pat answers. Find comfort in knowing that God has his hands on each of us. Trust him to work in the life of your loved one. Do what you need to do to have peace in your own home even if it means a time out. Pray daily. Even though it’s hard, don’t blame workers and trust them to do their job.

One day, maybe years away, something or someone will impact your loved one to make a change. I’ve seen it happen in the lives of others.

I hope this helps. I’ve been the worker that parents were angry with but I’ve also rejoiced with clients who had a breakthrough. If you are experiencing a painful time, seek out resources that may get you through it if needed. God bless.