The Looking Glass

www.facebook.com/949711445165693/posts/2010133475790146/

Today my husband and I are celebrating our 42nd wedding anniversary. When we stood before the courthouse judge 42 years ago neither of us had any idea if we’d still be walking hand in hand 40+ years later. Actually we never really thought about it one way or the other. We’ve had our trials and tests over the years and I’ve shared about that extensively in this forum but today I’m celebrating…just celebrating.

I’m celebrating that we have Christ as the Center of our marriage. I’m celebrating that we have other’s back. I’m celebrating that we have a special bond that only we share. I’m celebrating that we have a tried, tested and true testimony of the goodness of God. I’m celebrating that we have a legacy to leave our children and grandchildren and great grandchildren. I’m celebrating that we have cheered one another on to love and good works. I’m celebrating that we have one another till death do us part.

I’m celebrating that we can hold each other accountable to keep God first. I’m celebrating that we can hold each other’s confidences and the deepest desires of each other hearts like a priceless treasure. I’m celebrating that we can hold each other in joy and in sorrow. I’m celebrating that I can hold his hand and he can hold mine. I’m celebrating that together we can put our hands in God’s hand and follow where He leads. I’m celebrating today. Simply celebrating.

Happy 42nd Anniversary to us. Glory to God.

I read this blog post this morning. I wanted to share it with you here on my site. Your feedback is welcomed.

https://www.ibelieve.com/food-home/redefining-organization-can-help-mom-life.html

A few weeks ago I was asked by a friend to share a little of my story as a bridge builder in her blog site. So this month my post will be ‘borrowed’ from Carol Marchant Gibbs site. So in my own words, here it is:

https://carolmarchantgibbs.com/2018/08/20/building-racial-unity/

“Hey, what are you up to this summer?” I’m asked that question at least 2 times a week. Obviously, they’re not reading The Looking Glass By Kathy!! 😒😒

As I wrap up my explanation of what I’m doing this summer, I’m once again faced with the realization that you have to fight to be intentional. Protecting my Intentional Summer Slowdown (ISSD) causes me to wield the sword at various distractions. Often.

Nothing worthwhile comes without a battle, does it? If you’re going to be intentional about disconnecting to slowdown you’ve got to protect that sacred space. So, with that in mind here’s my final two focus points for my ISSD:

Read and Re-enter

—Read–Right now I’m reading ‘Kill The Spider’ by Carlos Whittaker. As I read this book (and others) it helps deepen my resolve to be a better me. That’s my goal: reading to realign with God’s purpose and plan for me. I (personally) don’t use this time for reading fiction. My ISSD is the perfect time to sharpen my spirit and my skills as a spiritual mentor, leader and disciple–so my readings are deliberate–and intentional.

–Re-enter–In approximately 3 weeks I will re-enter my ‘normal life’. A life filled with both mundane as well as ministry responsibilities. A life that’s purposeful in my connections and calling. I make myself ready to re-enter before I fully immerse myself in a new season. I set some goals for myself–both ministry and personal. I break them down into bite size (doable) goals. Praying also gets my mind ready to once again take on a full load of responsibilities. I also spend lots of time asking God for wisdom and direction for the new ministry year AND listening to His voice about it. I also take time to thank God for the privilege and opportunity to slow down for the summer–intentionally.

How’s your summer going? Are you being intentional about slowing down?

Sending Summer Blessings ☀️

Kathy