'God loves a cheerful giver...'

I've been thinking a lot lately about giving. Obviously, tis the season to be exchanging gifts, cards and over-eating. Christmas is by FAR my favourite time of year, and I am finally 90% all wrapped up and ready to go. I'm not going to get all preachy and defensive about what Christmas is truly about - I'll leave that to others because I want to talk about why generosity is so important, not just now - but always.

You see, I don't think generosity is merely an act more a lifestyle choice. I think that some of us are natural givers, and others are natural receivers. It is right to come to a balance in some ways, as I know I find it hard to receive things sometimes! So, what are some of the things that stop us from being generous?

Fear - 'What if I don't have enough to live off if I give this away?' Having lived off very little money for the past six months or so, I can say that I have learnt what I need and what I want. Has having little meant that I am not able to give? No. (I'm not sitting here blowing my own trumpet because each time I have got money my first reaction is usually: 'ooh I can buy a dress now.') It is easier than we might think to run fundraisers to help out charities, to put your loose change in a jar and give it away, to donate some tins of  food to local charities that help the homeless, to give a one off donation, to volunteer our time somewhere or even attend a fundraising event. When we have little - what we give is a LOT.


The Widow’s Offering

"Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents.

Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on."

I love this story. It challenges me every single time I read it. Did she find it easy to give everything she had...probably not. Giving it away was worth more to her than keeping it in her pocket. I would imagine she probably thought it was embarrassing to give such a small amount as her offering, what difference could that amount make? Here, Jesus is asking us - why is it more of a sacrifice to give when we have a little? Because sometimes it is all we have. It means more. It is a decision to share what little we have with others. It is a decision to not hoard what we have but to open it up and enjoy it with those around us, even if it means that we ourselves go without something.

Entitlement - 'I earnt this, it's up to me what I do with it.' I get this. There's nothing wrong with saving for the future. But, when we hold on to what we have just because 'It's mine' we forget some important things. 

Treasures in Heaven

¹⁹ “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth,where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰ But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.²¹ For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also...
²⁴ “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

When we think about our belongings in the bigger picture, we realise how temporary they really are. Is it better to spend 5 hours a day playing Fifa - or devoting that time to a friend? Which will last? Which will make an impact beyond our days? Life is so fragile, so fleeting and I want to encourage us all to think about how generous we are with our time, as well as our money/possessions. For we will never gain our time back.

I went to see one of my all time favourite bands a couple of weeks back. They are called 'Needtobreathe' and are from a small town in South Carolina. 

I'm just going to take a moment to appreciate my photograph. 

Small town Americans always remind me of Yorkshire folk because we share the same 'no nonsense' approach to life. Say it like it is, even though you may offend some people. They did a beautiful acapella version of their new song called 'Difference Maker.' I haven't stopped listening to it since I first heard it! At first, I thought I had figured out what the song meant until I saw the lead singer, Bear talk about it on a video on YouTube. 

Difference Maker

Yeah ain't it just amazing
How a God can tend a broken man
Yeah let him find a fortune
And then ruin it with his own two hands
Oh isn't it amazing
How a man can find himself alone
Calling through the darkness
For an answer that is never known
He walks on up the hill
The rock on which he stands
Looks back at the crowd
Looks down at his hands and he says
I am a difference maker

Oh I am a difference maker
Oh I am the only one who speaks to him
And I am the friendliest of friends of God

Yeah isn't it amazing
How a man can find himself alone
Calling through the darkness
For an answer that is never known
He walks on up the hill
The rock on which he stands
Looks back at the crowd
Looks down at his hands and he says
I am a difference maker

Oh I am a difference maker
Oh I am the only one that speaks to him
And I am the friendliest of friends of God

Yeah I am on the fence about
Nearly everything I've seen
And I have felt the fire
Put out with too much gasoline
And we're all strangers passing through
Places one afternoon
And life is but a vision
In a window that we're peeking thorough
A hopeless conversation
With a man who says he cares a lot
It's a hopeless confrontation
About who might throw a punch or not
But we are all transgressors
We're all sinners
We're all astronauts
So if you're beating death
Then raise your hand
And shut up if you're not

Hear it here :)

I think they're speaking about how arrogant we can be sometimes. That 'I' am a difference maker when surely it is God making a difference through me. Do I take the credit or do I send that Heavenward? God, in His perfection chose to reach out and love me yet I sit here and think about how good I am. With all my shortfalls and messups and mistakes, the only reason I continue is through His grace. Yet so often, it's all about me. Ultimately, we're all a bunch of messy people, in a broken world that hurts itself day in, day out. My duty is not to fill my life, this blesséd day that I have been given with 'things' that mean nothing. It is to bind broken hearts, offer the same grace I have received, and love until it hurts. Those are the things that last. And when I do something good it is because of Him, not me.

When we recognise that we have a GREAT responsibility in this life to value people over possessions, that is when we become truly generous. I am so blessed to spend my life with so many people who have gone out of their way to do amazing things for me. People who have put me first, saw something and thought of me, put up with sitting 4 hours in a coffee shop because I love talking so much. Those who have invited me along to things, who have missed me when I'm not there, who've text me to see if I'm ok. Those are the things that I treasure and they mean that I will always work hard to ensure I offer good friendship in return. 

'A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.' Proverbs 11:25

The things that I have, are only on loan to me, so I can keep them to myself and enjoy them - or I can make a choice to involve others in enjoying them too. I want to encourage you to give with a joyful and thankful heart, being grateful for all that you have been given, knowing that by giving your time, efforts, or finances, you are making a bigger difference than you could ever know.

Much Love xxx

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'I Am who I say I Am.'

It's been a little while since I have tip tapped; a few of us have had an unwelcome visit from a nasty but brief stomach bug, added to the general busyness of life - which meant I had little time to stop and think. Plus, now that my town has a cinema & Breaking Dawn Part 2 has been released - I've been a little preoccupied (i'm not ashamed to admit that I guess I am officially a 'twihard.')

However, I had a bit of time today after a nice conversation with my friend in my favourite quirky town to begin reading a book I had promised my friend I would take a look at so we could then discuss it. We agreed to do one chapter at a time, and the fact that I am writing after one chapter may well tell you that it is a good one! The book is here; check it out. Though I'm only just starting it has already given me some food for thought.

I know parts of it link back to posts I've written here in the past, based around trying to define ourselves with 'roles' and 'titles.' I've also written here before about one of my favourite subjects; contentment. This links to that too. I want to share this paragraph first of all:

'Jesus' sense of identity is striking. He has personal confidence, strength and security - as comfortable in urban Jerusalem as in rural Galilee. He can talk to the religious leaders of the Sanhedrin as easily as to a leper or roadside beggar. He can creatively diffuse hostile theological questions set to trap him by Scribes and Pharisees, and with equal skill calm the traumatised. Jesus is as relaxed at the meal table with tax collectors and prostitutes as he is at a banquet laid on by a local dignitary. When a woman of ill repute publicly kisses his feet, her actions cause him no embarrassment whatsoever, though everyone around is scandalised. He breaks the traditions of Sabbath keeping when he considers it necessary, but is quite happy to comply with social expectations when matters of justice or integrity are not at stake.'

I love this. It shows Jesus as a man who knew who he was. He knew what he stood for, and he was completely comfortable with that. He didn't need to answer to anyone because he was completely at ease with his identity. This meant he would relate to anyone, in exactly the same manner regardless of occupation/past/history/rank etc. This is such a great aspect to the man that Jesus was. I think it's one of the things that made him so radical. So if we are to follow this example, what do we need to do?

We need to throw off insecurity, fear, desire to please people, lack of confidence and instead; embrace who we are. The good parts and the bad parts. There are parts of me that I just can't escape - for example, i'm a complete introvert. I get energy when i'm away from people, if i've been around people for too many hours in a day I get stressed, I lose patience and I need to shut myself away and watch a film or something to sort myself out! I can't get away from that, because it is ME. I am also very honest, perhaps at times a bit too honest but it's ok, i'm also alright at apologising when I need to! I have reached a point in my life whereby I know myself, I know who I am and I comfortable with that - both inside and outside. I don't think people are often prepared to meet someone who is secure because it can appear slightly intimidating. Don't get me wrong, I am not 100% free from insecurity; but I am well aware of the insecurities I do have and I make a conscious effort to stop those getting out of control. Insecurity can most definitely be overcome & it MUST be!

One of things we are really good at is the art of comparing ourselves to others. The old, 'I wish I had hair like her,' 'If only I were as funny as he is' or 'they have it all together, why would they understand me?' I know I do it all the time. But it's not helpful for us! Instead of always looking at what others are doing/acting like we need to think about who WE are, are we being real? Are we being true to ourselves? What can I change about my thoughts to make me love who I am better? We can't ignore that loving ourselves IS important as it helps us to extend that love to others. We were not designed to hate ourselves or dislike who we are, quite the opposite. Why not channel your energy away from what you aren't, what 'they' are, and think about who you are. You are a beautiful, unique creation afterall...


I read this on a tweet this morning and thought it summed this all up very well:

"You're blessed when you're content with just who you are—no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought."
Matthew 5:5

Contentment with your situation and/or yourself is the best place you can be. It's a battle to stay there - don't get me wrong and we naturally have our up and down days but I can sit here and say that I am at ease with who I am, not defined by what I do or have done, but just because as I am me. 

http://www.minnamayblog.com/

Much Love xxx

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Things I've learnt from the Tetley Tea Advert.

Before I start writing: Watch it here.

I saw this advert a while ago, and whilst my heart is all for Yorkshire Tea (as everybody knows) - I thought it made an excellent point. Right at the beginning of my blogging days, I posted about 'Private Life' (scroll down my page and take a look after!) and this need we feel to share so much of our lives online. I hold my hands up and say I am guilty as charged, as those of you who know me are probably thinking right now. I guess it's just become a part of life for us all really, it's almost become a bit of a reflex in some ways. See, I take photos all the time. Usually of things that I love, things that inspire me, nature, coffee or family and I just share it. If those things are important to me, people might care. Or, perhaps not.

This advert addresses this issue so well. Instead of throwing on facebook that 'we have a new job' or 'we're going on holiday' why don't we instead call up our closest friends, the ones who actually care and share it with them first? Lately, I've spent a lot of time on the phone, catching up with people who think they are calling me for 5 minutes and then boom, an hour has passed. But I LOVE that because we are sharing life! Talking is good. I am also quite famous for sitting in coffee shops. I have calculated that there may be 2 coffee shops in my entire town that I have never been in. Just to give you a better picture of what this means: my town has an excess of two things in particular: Hairdressers and Coffee Shops. Anywho, though I do love coffee - more importantly, Coffee Shops offer me time to sit, face to face with a friend who can have my undivided attention. I love losing track of time, having my phone on silent and getting lost in conversation. (For those of you who know what 'love languages' are - mine is Quality Time.) In that time, that conversation is my priority and is the most important thing in the world to me.

Now, all the things I have been to lately; meetings, conferences etc - one thing has cropped up that ties them all together. It's the light bulb moment of 'why have we not been meeting each other before?!' We are all really good (me included) at sending email after email or doing things on the phone, which creates a million other jobs and phone calls and messages that need to be sent, communication ultimately breaks down and the job falls through. So, instead - we meet face to face. We see each other, we give each other time and we share more information than we would through typing. I've personally learnt the value of this through networking in order to find work. If I meet 'that relevant person' I can say 'I need a job' or 'can I help you do this' etc. My face is known, and people will think of me when a job is either created or advertised.

So, what is my point in all of this? Instead of investing in '600' online acquaintances, take your best friend out for lunch. Ring your mum, send your friend a letter, have a dinner party, arrange a catch up and make the effort to know and appreciate the people in your lives who are the ones on which you can rely. In your work, or personal lives - if you are trying to set up a team, organise a project, start a new group then MEET your people. Face to face. Also, get some biscuits. Meet regularly, to ensure that you are all communicating and sharing effectively because this will improve everything, I assure you! Sometimes you might think that it sounds so simple that you can't believe you didn't think of it before, to sit in the same room together and talk. But we just hardly do it anymore...who really likes meetings?! But I want to say that they offer something key that we are losing, they are not always a nuisance - they are an opportunity to be human, to build relationships (working and personal) and to learn together.

For when the busyness of life takes over (as it so naturally does) choose to slow down, get a cup of tea, catch up with a person you love and let them be your focus. People will always be more important than things.

Much Love xxx 

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Life as a Post-Grad.

I can't believe I'm a post graduate. That wonderful time all came and went far too quickly, and if you've been following my journey for a while - you will know it has had it's ups and downs, as has life since I finished my studies. But now, it's all officially a closed chapter...but one that I can look back on, treasure and be thankful for. It's up to us (as friends) to maintain the beautiful friendships that were created for it will be all too easy for us to drift apart and though for some of us that is bound to happen, there are a few that I don't want to do life without.

The day of graduation was laced with grand tradition. It had a very Harry Potter-esque feel to it as the ceremony took place in Chester Cathedral (well worth a visit as it is a stunner) with the opening of the event being trumpet fanfare. We had a great speech from some guy (he obviously made a great impression) who mentioned a few things that really inspired me. He said that we, as graduates have been given this opportunity to gain a degree - which is something that is not given to everybody. I know this all too well living where I do, where unemployment levels as well as motivation levels are generally very low in select communities. He said that with this in mind, we should not concentrate solely on furthering our own careers or spend our lives seeking more opportunities for our own gain - we should seek to use our knowledge and skills to improve the lives of those around us who are less fortunate. I was so GLAD he recognised this. In my line of work, I was never going to step into it with a selfish motive and I was certainly never going to be in it for the money (as if I was I would have been sorely disappointed) but helping others has always been my goal.

That of course, is not the same for everybody. I don't want to pinpoint anybody or any course in particular but I think we can easily become so entangled in our own progression that we stop seeing what is happening in the life of our struggling neighbour. We all have a responsibility to help each other and it doesn't always have to be big things (see my previous post entitled 'Townstock' for ideas.) With the education that we have been given, we can use it to benefit our community, society or world for the better OR we can use it solely to gain one up on others. I am not at all saying that progressing in your business/job is always a bad thing, success is good and promotions are a part of working life but I do think your motivation should be thought through - I have been blessed to have an experience that not everybody can share so I want the fruits of that to be of benefit to others.

Life has looked much the same for the past few months and until I get my work break through I know it wont change that much. I have my good days and bad days, frustrations and confusions but overall I have no choice but to keep doing what I am doing. Seeking opportunities, meeting people and ultimately, waiting. This time has, however brought me new friendships, restored old ones and blessed me with time to spend with treasured ones. I would be lying if I said I am happy to stay in this situation for too much longer but this is out of my hands! I am hoping that in a few months time I can look back on all of this as a stronger person who is more appreciative of the life I have been given for I will only have it once!

I will leave you with a couple of momentos from the biggest day of my life so far...

I have waited my entire life to throw that hat.

At least I caught it!

Outside the Cathedral (the only one wearing florals...)

With my degree...!

- How can you use the knowledge/expertise you have to help others?

- What were your favourite things about University?

P.s. my dad took these photos and would be mortified if I didn't credit him...www.dennisgoodwinphotography.com

Much Love xxx

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Townstock.

This week, I was privileged to help out at an utterly inspirational conference in my local town. Before I had even heard of this conference, I'd been getting these random bursts (check my twitter) of just loving my town and my county. Everyone who met me when I lived in Chester will know how passionate I was about Yorkshire simply because I would bang on about it constantly because I always had a deep yearning to be there. Every time I had a reading week, I would just be so happy to revel in its hills, quirks and eebygums. I missed it. Now that I am back, I am seeing my home with fresh eyes and I am genuinely so excited to be here right now.

I have been able to meet lots of new people, from all walks of life who are running such incredible projects that have been motivated by this same love I feel. I've met people who appreciate everything Halifax and it's surrounding areas have, and they've noticed that it's no longer helpful to moan about our out of touch government doing nothing for us - when we could just do it ourselves. One of my favourite quotes was from a speaker representing an amazing campaign we have called 'Totally Locally.' He said that 'often the people who change their town will be the ones who were born there that move away and come back.' That one hit me square in the eyes because I had wondered why everything seemed new and different! It wasn't just me!

Some of this stuff is exactly what I've been writing/thinking about over these past few months; slowing down, working together, living simply and loving the place you're at. So when I saw this - I did a little squeal of joy:

The Totally Locally 'Manifesto.'

There are so many things in life that we have lost due to the rapid growth of technology. We shop online which means we take money out of our local economy and cut out the middle man of actually talking face to face with someone in a building. We focus on big brands/big names and forget about the independent retailer down the road.We walk past empty shops in our town centres. We've stopped taking risks. These are all issues that were addressed at this conference. The Totally Locally nationwide campaign is to get us to re-invest in our local butchers, shop-keepers, greengrocers, cafés etc and we can achieve this by doing as little as spending £5 each a week in a local business. A small investment that will positively impact all of our futures. I love this movement! It's so important for organisations that have the same interests to begin to meet with each other and establish working relationships because this creates unity and a common goal. It allows us to create quote 'an US culture not a ME culture.' We need to begin to think about what we can GIVE and not GET because this will improve life for everyone.

We also heard from Dan Thompson - a great user of Twitter who gathered troops to clean up after the London riots and who now spreads the good news of Pop up shops. He said a few things that I loved too - it was all very simple and practical but sometimes those are the things we forget. He said we need to 'commit to our dreams' - if you have something that you would really LOVE to do then quote 'get out there and do it' because committing means that something will happen. I have spoken before of our fear to commit; what if it all goes wrong, what if I can't do it, what if it doesn't work the way I had hoped? Well - what if it DOES work? I was in a room full of people who had held these little dreams, that perhaps became known through a chat over a pint but were now affecting not just their own communities but in some cases - over 76 communities! Did they predict that would happen? No, probably not! One speaker had said that 'they created a monster' because their small dream grew so quickly. I found this fascinating. The sharing of these ideas inspired so many people who will have left changed - that will now I am sure, be working on making their dreams for their local area a reality. 

One noteable movement has changed a community through growing vegetables. 'Incredible Edible' was a movement that started by planting seeds that would be available for the general public to harvest and eat. It was a way of breaking barriers between neighbours and those whose paths would not normally cross and for a movement that started from growing beans it is now responsible for changing the lives and attitudes of an entire community! This idea has now spread to 37 towns and it's focus is not to grow great veg but to start a small movement that will empower the individual to make a change and positive impact for the future of others. This idea is quote 'not rocket science' but it is so inspiring!

We also heard from vInspired who are doing lots of great things to engage young people in volunteering. The speaker - Terry Ryall made some excellent points about the negative view cast upon young people by adults and said that quote 'young people are not something wrong that need to be fixed, rather they are an asset.' I did a little AMEN inside at that point. Young people are so passionate - they think first with their emotions and find it natural to speak out upon injustice, (this is what I LOVE about working with them) when this is put to positive use - their potential is great. When we see young people as an asset - we can turn them into an opportunity by asking quote 'what are YOU passionate about and how can WE take action on that?'

Some inspiring ideas that came directly from young people were found in 'Teenage Markets' in Stockport set up by Joseph Barratt (an excellent communicator) that used the creativity of its citizens to do something for and by young people. He spoke of 'collaborating and fusing generations' i.e. bringing people together to provide something new and fun for their area. I loved this idea as it put the power back into the hands of the young, young people thrive off being given responsibility and ownership - this is something we MUST invest in and encourage. 

Following on from this, I enjoyed the talk given by Adrian Bird from Halifax Opportunities Trust as he spoke to businesses about the importance of quote 'funding projects that help the young.' Not only this, but we must educate young people to understand that quote 'nearly all employment opportunities have value - the embarrassment barrier needs to be broken down.' He put forward a great suggestion that businesses and organisations should invite young people in to give them hands on experience, but also organisations should have 'a youthful workforce that they are prepared to develop.' Speaking from my own experience in my current job search - this is not happening enough!

To conclude, it seems that individuals who want to make a change in the place they live are getting up and doing it. We can't sit here just wishing things were different when we could be the ones to shake it up! I personally have been motivated to continue searching for the right job but in the meantime - this is the place I want to be. I am blessed to know some of these incredibly inspirational people and will continue to seek to help wherever I can. I would encourage you to put feet to your dreams, to get off your bum and to be the change because you never know where it might lead! 

A few questions...

- What is going on in your local area?

- Is there anything you can get involved with?

- Do you volunteer anywhere?

- What would you like to change?

- What is stopping you?

For further information on all the people/organisations I have mentioned:

- Townstock

- Totally Locally

- vInspired

- Dan Thompson

- Joseph Barratt

- Incredible Edible

- Halifax Opportunities Trust

Much Love xxx

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In which I change.

If these past few months have taught me anything, it's that I'm not the person I used to be. I remember how I would describe myself whilst I was still at Uni - it would be something along the lines of 'organised, love planning, hate surprises, in control.' Now, I think that couldn't be further from the truth.  For one, I have come to believe that organisation is more of a skill or gift than a personality attribute. I guess I've reached this place where I'm not able to be in control at all, so I have had to learn to wait for surprises and I can't really make any plans until a few important steps have been made.

I'm in a place where I have had to adapt to my present circumstances but still remain content with where I am. I think that's half the battle; being in a place I didn't think I would be waiting for an opportunity to come my way but still remaining hopeful and happy. I have met with professionals lately who have asked me 'where do I want to be?' or 'where do I see myself going?' and I've surprised myself with my change in answer. Before, I was very set - youth work, because that's what I'm trained in, but when you look a bit deeper or a bit wider the path isn't as narrow as it seems. I'm rediscovering my 'I could go anywhere' approach. This doesn't have to mean geographically but it could mean in the first role I end up with and where that could lead to in the future. We're in an age where it isn't common to stay in one trade for our entire lives - we're much more...flitty (I am not sure this is a word but it feels right, like a butterfly I was thinking) than that and we have so many more opportunities.

So instead of being obsessed with lists, scared of surprises, needing to know what is coming - I am feeling excited because I feel renewed, with a new lease of life and less fear. I hate fear. It has no place in our lives as it comes and takes over and robs us of opportunities. It tells us our dreams aren't big enough, that we aren't good enough, that we should always want for more, that we should have what our friends have because what we have isn't enough. But that's not right!

If we invest in the people that love us, right where we are then we are well on the way to being prepared for whatever life may throw at us. Whether that be good, or bad. Hard, or easy. Happy, or sad. I think that is the key. Community is what we need to do life, to live it rich in love and togetherness. That is what really matters, our dependence on each other whether that be family or friends. Those things are more important than my career for even if I don't end up doing what I studied, it doesn't matter as long as I am happy.

 I no longer place value on 'things' but in 'people.' I've been really blown away this past week with the amazing network of people I have in my life. This has brought about more opportunities than I could ever have thought possible, or that I could have planned for myself. I look forward to the time when I can do the same thing for someone else because I couldn't have gotten anywhere lately without the help and time of others. This is something else that has changed me. I have always been fiercely independent. If someone showed me how to do something like baking, using a computer programme etc, I was off - I could then do it on my own and continue to work it out for myself. But I have begun to wonder whether that's really how I want to live. I don't want to be an authority figure, I want to be a team player who gets in and serves alongside others. I want to choose to live life alongside others, so knowing that I could do a task more easily by myself isn't important, because I would rather learn together, with someone else. I really believe that this is what we have lost and I for one am going to fight for it. I think a level of dependence is healthy and necessary if we are ever to live in true community. We each have different skills that when used together equal something greater than if we were going at it alone.

I feel like this has been a bit rambly so to clarify:

- We need to learn to reflect on our experiences in order to change, grow and adapt to new circumstances.

- Investing in each other is more important than worrying about the future for those who love us will support us whatever happens.

- We shouldn't be afraid.

- Living in and for community is better than living by and for ourselves.

Much Love xxx 

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Follow Friday.

Welcome to the weekend! 

I like weekends and beaches. I'm not going to the beach...it snowed here today, so that would be a bad idea - but the above photograph was taken when I was feeling particularly joyful in beautiful Cornwall. Anyway, I thought I would do something a bit different on the ol'blog after I got the urge to join in with 'follow friday' on twitter. I'm going to share a few nice things I discovered this week that are worth sharing with you lovely people.

Sarah's nice new things:

1) Whilst in the bath, I usually use my 'Country Radio App' to listen to well, Country music -most of  the stations are in America and my favourite is: Rocky Mountain Radio. I heard a group on there yesterday called 'The Wailin' Jennys.' Their music is beautiful, they have incredible harmonies and it's really folksy. Check them out - they have a facebook page and a website. 

2) Hope for Justice - really exciting stuff is going on over there relating to freedom - take a look at what they do! Love.

3) Autumnal Trees. Something about them this year has completely captivated me, more so than ever before! I don't know why that is...but it's the way it is. I've been taking pictures of nearly every nice tree I've seen. Here are the latest:

4) Avacados. No idea why - always used to hate them - now I adore them. YUM.

5) My A21 Campaign Bracelet. It arrived this week all the way from Australia and I love it...makes a nice big statement! 

6) Martha Stewart. The American legend continues to provide me with easy, yummy, scrummy, fool proof recipes. Any time I get the urge to bake, she has the answer. 

7) Watching Films. I've watched so many films lately...some have been good, some have been absolute bobbins. I have really enjoyed: 'It's Kind of a Funny Story' and 'Made in Dagenham.' Very entertaining.

8) Being back in wooly jumpers. I got my winter wardrobe out a couple of days ago - handy because of the aforementioned snow. I have invested in a wooly poncho with reindeer on it that makes me feel like Clint Eastwood and a big burgundy beauty that had £12 off the other day.

9) The Pistol Annies. These gals are amazing...their album makes me laugh. They all have amazing country voices and an endearing honesty. http://www.pistolannies.com/

10) Relevant Magazine. I LOVE their articles, they always challenge me, make me think and inspire me to write in response. They also gave me a LOT of free music when I subscribed to their iPad edition. Take a look.

11) The American Election. I've been labelled a 'geek' amongst my peers because I've been following the debates pretty closely. I find it all so fascinating and I've been trying to make sure I take a more balanced and educated view on life. If I were able to vote in that election I think I would still vote Obama - but I don't know what it's like to live as an American so that's from an outsiders point of view!

12) Ending this list on an even number. Can't cope with odd ones.

Much Love xxx

 

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God is not a Genie.

Well, it's been another week of lessons learnt. I guess you could say I'd put all of my eggs in one basket with the recent job I applied for and after I finally got an interview I thought I was sorted. Unfortunately, I am not. I realise that in the grand scheme of things, this is a common occurrence and I am by no means alone in this struggle but I don't think that makes it any easier. It's such a vicious circle because people don't take you on due to your 'lack of experience' (even though I do have a LOT!) thus not allowing you to gain any paid experience which in turn stops you from progressing from where you are. I think sometimes we just tell ourselves it's all ok and 'the right job will come along' but I just want to acknowledge that in situations such as these, it is OK to be upset/confused/sad. It's a very frustrating situation and if you are in the same boat - I get how you feel!!

It's one of those seasons of life that is laced with complete confusion and it's not easy to know how eager and enthusiastic you are, yet no-one is giving you the chance to express that or do anything useful with it. Then, just when you think there's an open door, you get there, and it's closed. I've just been thinking WHAT THE HECK am I supposed to do next?!

This is where my title comes in. You may have read that in my previous posts, I've been learning to be thankful, to slow down, to appreciate what I have, to be patient and to trust God's plan. I suppose I just expected that after Uni, it would all just fall into place. I didn't have a choice but to come back home again, which has of course had it's challenges and sacrifices. I know what my skills are, what I can do, my strengths and weaknesses, I know that I will work hard and commit fully to whatever I do and so I thought it was obvious that a job would just land on my lap - because why wouldn't it? But then I begin to think that maybe as Christians, we carry some sort of spiritual arrogance. This attitude of 'God will give you the perfect job.' But what about my non-Christian neighbour? Are they not allowed the perfect job? Do they just have to work any old thing and we'll just swoop in because 'God has gone before us?' Don't we have to work, to wait and to be stuck too?

I think it is stupid of us to assume that we too wont have to work hard and endure tough times. After all, it is promised in the Bible that we will share in the sufferings. (I speak to myself here as much as those of you whom are reading this.) Of course, this is one of those annoying circumstances that just feels a bit hopeless but I know and hope that it wont be like this forever. It is up to me to work hard in the meantime, whether that be networking, trawling job sites, filling in even MORE application forms, widening my search, thinking outside of the box, asking around etc. I cannot sit here and wait for God to drop my dream on my lap. I have to put the effort in for it, I'm sure - being the almighty He probably could drop it on my lap however what would I learn from that?

Would I learn to discern, (hey that rhymes) to seek help from others, to depend on Him, to figure out what I am passionate about, to make real-life big decisions, to stop worrying about the future and think about what is happening now, to hold my plans loosely, to grow through struggles? No. He knows exactly what He is doing, of that I am sure. Would we need Faith if we knew what tomorrow held? No.  But I believe that God has a higher purpose. I can imagine that at the end of this stage, I will look back and see, once again how beautiful His orchestration is. I am sure every part of this experience is building me up for something that will come at the right time, in the right place, with the right people. Though at times, being stuck has been the most frustrating and un-natural experience for me and I have hated parts of it - I cannot only expect life, and Christianity to be good.

Sometimes, cack just happens. There's no explanation for it. I know it does, I've experienced it. I've seen it in peoples lives and I've just thought 'how is it possible that this could all happen to one person?' but it just does and I have no answer for it. Gaining perspective by zooming out to see the bigger picture is the only way we can get through it! Of course, my life could be a million times worse - I've shared my burden to campaign against Human Trafficking - it's horrific and I cannot imagine what life is like for those people - it disturbs me so much that people can be treated like this - but in the here and now, this is my personal struggle and I am allowed to be sad that no-one wants to employ me. Rejection isn't a nice experience, especially when all you want to do is get stuck in with something and be given an opportunity. But, it is what it is. We are not exempt from struggles, rather we need to embrace them - because this is reality.

Romans 8:17

The Message (MSG)

^15-17 This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It’s adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike “What’s next, Papa?” God’s Spirit touches our spirits and confirms who we really are. We know who he is, and we know who we are: Father and children. And we know we are going to get what’s coming to us—an unbelievable inheritance! We go through exactly what Christ goes through. If we go through the hard times with him, then we’re certainly going to go through the good times with him!

Much Love xxx

P.s. someone give me a job please.

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Thankful Thoughts.

I really LOVE receiving post. I know exactly what time the postman is supposed to arrive at my door and if I am at home I will watch the clock until I hear that old familiar clatter of letters and parcels every day. (I can imagine that's what it feels like to be a dog waiting for the newspaper.) I guess that's one of the perks to shopping online because it takes a few clicks and I often forget I've even sent off for whatever it is so it works out as a lovely surprise. I've always preferred catching up with people via pretty notecards and postcards however in order to be an effective pen pal, the recipient is expected to reply. *hint hint* I just think it's always nice to have something to wait for, something that doesn't arrive in an instant. It takes time to sit and reply and to reflect on what has actually happened in your week in order to fill a card with information and questions to keep your conversation going. Why am I rambling on about this?

There has been one piece of post in particular that I have been eagerly awaiting, which was kind of annoying because it had a 10-14 working day delivery estimate. Everyday, I was hoping it would arrive and today it finally did! I realise I am building this up to something that is sure to disappoint you...it's not a time machine or the Cath Kidston dress that I've been coveting for weeks. It is in fact, a book.

I saw it when I was looking for something else on Amazon and read the description. Straight away,  I knew this woman was my kinda gal. I started reading it this evening and can confirm my early suspicions. I love it. I've only read a chapter and a half so far, so I know i'm merely on the cusp of her message but I already feel inspired. She first describes the pain of loss in her life and her reaction to blame God. She then states how one day, that all changed when she had a revelation.

I want to first share her picture of our human dissatisfaction. For this, she takes it back to the Garden of Eden:

'But in the beginning, our eyes were already open. Our site was perfect. Our vision let us see a world spilling with goodness. Our eyes fell on nothing but the glory of God. We saw God as He truly is: good. But we were lured by the deception that there was more to a full life, there was more to see. And, true, there was more to see: the ugliness we hadn't beheld, the sinfulness we hadn't witnessed, the loss we hadn't known.'

It's interesting, this. The thought that our dissatisfaction is part of our human nature. Of course, this is also a picture of us knowing better than God. We humans could have seen God in all His glory and accepted Him as He is and would have been grateful, but we would all have given in to the temptation of 'there must be something more.' Now, don't get me wrong - I am NOT saying there is anything wrong with ambition. I think ambition is good and is necessary to help us grow as people, but there has to be a limit. You only have to look at people chasing fame, they will seemingly do anything to get on TV, to become known by everyone - they want more and more until all of a sudden it becomes too much and they become empty. They could never be satisfied with what they had so they hungered for more and found nothing. They can't go to a coffee shop whenever they feel like it because they get chased by the paparazzi. They can't put on a few extra pounds because that sparks pregnancy rumours. They can't lose any pounds because then they have an eating disorder. They can't spend time with a friend because they might sell gossip to a magazine. Who can they trust? Where can they go?

This season of my life has been full of challenges. I've let go of fears, thoughts that I need to plan out my entire life, the 'what if I make the wrong decision?' doubts. I've found hope that if I keep knocking - the right door will open. I've done the waiting, the filling in of applications, the asking for help, the meeting new people but by far my favourite lesson - living in the here and now. You see, anything can happen tomorrow. We can't worry about that - what do we have today? What can we be thankful for, what can we be moved by, what can we appreciate right here and now?  This is where I link back to my new book. We need to be satisfied with what we have today. It's ok to want things, like I wanted my post (an abnormal amount! ha.) Or like I want a job and my own place, a relationship, children. But I also want to be grateful and thankful for what I have NOW. 

It's easy to be dissatisfied when we think our lives are boring. The key is this, as written by Christine Caine (my hero of the moment):

'We must begin to value our seemingly mundane lives and routines, understanding that each day God has opportunities waiting for us to meet the needs of others.'

I love this! It gives me hope that in my unemployed state, I still have a purpose! I still have lives to impact, people to meet, serve, love and befriend. I've been involved in all sorts, i've been busy building new friendships and restoring old ones. I've had time to rest and to read. I've watched on average one movie every day for as long as I can remember. I've been stirred up as I've researched things such as Human Trafficking (as you may have noticed!) I've been motivated to DO something. I have found joy in not knowing what tomorrow may bring and gratitude for what I have received today. 

Back to my book again. 

'The only place we need see before we die is this place of seeing God, here and now. I whisper it out loud, let the tongue feel these sounds, the ear hear their truth.' 

Previous to this she unpacks the word 'Eucharist' from it's Greek root and it becomes...

'Charis - Grace.

 Eucharisteo - Thanksgiving.

 Chara - Joy. [these are described by her as a 'threefold cord...that might make up the meaning of everything]'

Is that what we need to be satisfied? Grace, from God that our mistakes are forgiven and we can have LIFE, thanks for all the wonderful things we are given, the people in our lives, the things that we love and joy in all circumstances? I think so. I guess it all seems so simple, which is maybe why we can't grasp it. I think it is a daily battle to be satisfied. I will admit now; I have about 6 beautiful handbags that I can switch between when I feel like a change. I go to Cath Kidston (she's had a double mention today!) and I'll see a new print or a new style and I want it. Forget the 5 I already have, I want that one, I need that one. Do I? No. I could think, 'Sarah, you already have more than the average person when it comes to handbags - why not be glad for what you have?' I could even think, what about the people in my country, my county, my town who might have to live off £20 a week. Who can't get on to the benefits system, who can't get work, who can't switch their heating on, who are brought here against their will and forced to do things they don't want to do. Then it all becomes insignificant. What I should think is - look at what I HAVE! It's more than I need, more than I deserve so how can I share it?

A few things I was thankful for today were these views:

I want to live a life thankful not just for things (that let's be real - in the grand scheme of things, I don't need) but for purpose, potential and the gifts I have been given that can be used to bless others. I am grateful for the beauty that is around me, the way that God shows off with sites such as the above images and for the relationships I have that I couldn't POSSIBLY do life without. I love ya!

Much Love xxx

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KEY2FREE

Today (October 18th) is Anti-Slavery day. The A21 Campaign (see previous post) are getting involved by hosting the 'KEY2FREE' event. The idea is, that everyone wears a key around their necks to mark a sign of freedom for those who are trapped in modern day slavery. I would imagine this will be quite a conversation starter! The A21 Campaign's online store sell official necklaces which wouldn't come in time for this event but will be great for everyday wear!

Here is mine:

I will be wearing this all day today in the hope that I can help raise awareness!

You can also get involved by doing these things:

- Watch this - for a better explanation of what this campaign is about.

- If you're a tweeter, tweet today using the hashtag #KEY2FREE

- If you're a fellow Instagram addict...post photos and use the same hashtag - #KEY2FREE

- Check out the Facebook event by following this link.

- Spread the word, talk to your friends/colleagues/family members about the campaign

- Think about what we can do to help others live in freedom

- Attend an event or host a last minute one! It can be in a coffee shop with some girlfriends or in your own living room!

- Look up some websites that will educate you on what you can do to help raise awareness of this issue.

We are the key to unlocking someone else's freedom...

Much Love xxx

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The A21 Campaign.

The A21 Campaign is something I feel very passionate about supporting. It stands for 'Abolishing Injustice in the 21st Century' (which I probably should've found out before now!) and is a campaign raising awareness for the 27million people who are trapped in modern day slavery. This subject is something that we all know happens, but may not have classed it as 'slavery' before. It is a problem that affects every nation, though we may not realise it. 

Myself and my friend Elly (who loves it when I mention her) got chatting about this cause one day and decided we should do something to help, indeed this is how the campaign began in the first place. So, we set about planning and decided to start small by running a fundraiser/awareness evening. This week, the event finally came around so I thought I would share a bit about how it went and what I have learnt from it. 

We decided to run it in the format of a meal, so we charged people for the price of a ticket and provided a meal for free. Thanks to the extremely generous people in our Church who provided main courses and desserts, we were able to feed everybody and in most cases they got 2nd's! Without those people giving up their time and ingredients, this part of the evening wouldn't have happened! We decided in the end to keep it simple and served everything with jacket potatoes, as the brits love their tatties. 

My favourite find for the evening!

I love tablecloths   

Our yummy cupcakes

Discussion points for the tables

We also had musicians who played for us throughout the evening that were wonderful and worked out as a great part of the evening and all of the musicians ended up being very eager to help us continue to raise awareness in the future. The music helped to keep the evening relaxed even though the subject matter was very tough!

Throughout the evening, we discussed the facts of Human Trafficking and watched the A21 Campaign's video, which was a great way to educate everyone in a way that was better than anything I could've done! Of course, it was a lot of information to take in, especially for those who had very little knowledge before the evening, as I did when I first looked into it! The point of this campaign is to help people realise that anyone can make a difference. 

Facts about Human Trafficking (taken from A21 website):

- It is the 2nd largest Global Organised crime and generates nearly $31.6 BILLION a year, Specifically sexual trafficking $27.8 billion a year.

- There are 1.39 million victims of commercial sexual servitude worldwide.

- Only 1-2 % of victims are rescued whilst 1 in 100,000 Europeans involved in trafficking are convicted.

- Greece is known as 'the centre of trafficking in Europe.'

- Ukraine is a source country for trafficked women and is currently one of the largest exporters of women, not just in the EU but also to the Middle East and to South East Asia. 

- Bulgaria - It is estimated that that 10,000 Bulgarian women alone are trafficked yearly, both within the country and to destination countries.

- Roma - Ethnic Roma men, women and children are particularly vulnerable to becoming trafficking victims, due to ethnic discrimination, poverty, high levels of unemployment, usury, growing up in state care, homelessness, domestic violence, substance abuse and complicity of family members trafficking their own.

- The United States - Human Trafficking is currently on the rise. Over 17,500 victims are trafficked in the US annually and  it is estimated that 33% are US Citizens. The full scope of the problem is yet to be determined but it is intertwined with drugs and prostitution. Trafficking here takes the form of; prostitution, massage parlours and brothels. Generally, those who are US citizens will end up in the sex trade whereas foreign victims will be found in labour trafficking. 

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It also happens in the UK. Take a look at this story which has recently hit the news. There are more stories like this, though it is not widely talked about.   

A few weeks ago, some of us watched the Nefarious documentary, as I have mentioned previously.  The quote below that cropped up in this film will never leave me because of its truth. Now that we have passed the baton onto everyone who attended our fundraiser, or those of you reading this cannot say you didn't know about Human Trafficking - because I've just told you about it! 

This quote has been the key for me to do something about it!

Below are the A21 Campaign flyers, which  suggest ways in which YOU and I can begin to make a difference. You can start by talking about what you have heard. The more it is talked about, the more people know and the more likely it is that we can work together to see an end to this. It isn't just something 'nice' to do, it is our responsibility.

 What did I learn?

On the night of our fundraiser, I got a real picture of what, especially as Christians - we should stand for. Without all the people who helped myself and Elly i.e. those who cooked, washed the dishes, served the food, brewed the tea, wiped the tables, put away chairs, folded tablecloths etc, then that night would never have happened. It was team at its best. It was us, working together for others - for a cause greater than ourselves which is what it is all about. 

We also need to be moved into action. It's all well and good looking into these things and then walking away and carrying on our lives as normal. But we have a duty to carry the burden of others. We need to have our heart broken for those who need us. It is a conscious decision - to not let these people continue to suffer when we have the ability to 'be the change' in this situation. Though it is easy to be overwhelmed by massive statistics, if each one of us does something then of course things will change!   We have managed to raise about £180/$290 just through 30 of us gathering together. More than this, we educated 30 people who may then go on to tell 30 people etc etc. That is the real point! 

I did not write this to brag about what we have done - for this is just the beginning. We started small, and simple, running a relaxed evening based around sharing food and facts. Maybe you could do something similar or on an even smaller scale! You could have a tea party or a coffee morning or get a few friends together to chat about it. Make a few crafts or sell some cupcakes. Everything will make a difference!

What will YOU do?

At our event x thank you to everyone who came x

Much Love xxx

p.s. let's all be abolitionists 

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