Well, it's been a while, friends, and there are several things on my mind tonight.
The first is this: I am SO thankful for my grandmother, who has instilled in me a deep love and appreciation of music. The times I've spent with her gathered around the piano singing hymns and praising God are some of my most treasured memories, that I'm holding onto even more so now, as I'm starting to realize how quickly things change, and how, perhaps, I won't be able to do that much longer. I don't know where the wind will take me, but I am seizing every chance that I have to spend with the people who are dear to my heart.
The second is, I want to write something to get myself grounded again, so I guess I'm just going to start typing. We'll see where it takes us, eh?
1.) I believe there is a silver lining to every cloud.
2.) I believe there is always something to live for.
3.) Everyone has someone who loves them--sometimes we just don't realize it.
4.) People are both more and less reliable than I give them credit for. (Contradictory, I know.)
5.) Things change faster than we can imagine, so cherish every moment.
6.) Every day is a gift from God, not a given right.
7.) Cherish the moment, but don't fear the future.
8.) Don't worry about what people think--we're not here to impress.
9.) Everyone feels a need to be loved.
10.) We should love more and judge less. (Usually)
11.) Smile. You never know when it will brighten someone's day.
12.) The little things are often the most important.
13.) You should never have to defend yourself to a friend.
14.) Everyone needs at least one good friend.
15.) We shouldn't be keeping God's love to ourselves.
16.) Be bold and fearless.
17.) Don't be afraid to be who you are--haters make you famous. ;)
18.) Salvation is given to all who believe.
19.) Everyone has a chance at salvation--it's their decision whether they take it or not.
20.) I am NOT responsible for my friends' salvation--it's between them and God.
I struggle with that last one a lot. In ministering to someone, I always feel as if I have somehow personally failed them if they don't get saved. That, however, is NOT on my shoulders, and over the past few weeks I've been working really hard at letting that go. And at letting someone who doesn't particularly WANT my help walk away--that decision is their right.
I am working very hard to remember that God loves them more than I do, that He DIED for them, and that He desires their salvation as much or more than I do.
I'm tired tonight, so this is a little bit all over the place, but I love you friends. God bless.
xoxo,
Erika Rose
