What's a Tapestry?

Folks keep asking me, what is a tapestry? The short answer is 'threads.' But why in the hell would I consider myself threads? I joke and call myself "threats" but never threads..lol. That would be weird, even for me..lol... Let me catch you up. One day I was doing all things random, my signature style, and for some reason I ran across Maya Angelou's quote, “We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their color." The words tapestry jumped out at me.  I then looked up the definition and read: Tapestry is "Used in reference to an intricate combination of things or sequence of events." I felt like I finally found a word that describes me. You see, I am now at a place in my life where I not only appreciate my qualities but I've grown to accept my shortcomings as well. I've done things in my past that I might take to my grave out of shame BUT those things made me who I am today. Reflecting back on the definition,"Used in reference to an intricate combination of things or sequence of events." I am survivor of every type of abuse you can fathom. I was called ugly as a little girl by family members and as an adult by strangers. I've been through a lot BUT all those painful, intricate things, added resilience to my character. I grew up with scares on my face, and kids teased me for it. My mom couldn't afford braces and I was called crooked teeth. As a young adult I placed myself in life-threatening situations, acting impulsively and irresponsibly. I learned from all of my mistakes. Hell, I'm still learning. Then I went through a phase where I learned that corporate American will shove you around much like the streets. All of these diverse instances gave me a chance to grow. My insight was sharpened by every disappointment, every failure taught me to increase my faith in God. The scares on my face, legs, and in my heart didn't deter my ability to love. Today I love harder than ever. The devil wanted to break me down to my brake pads but GOD allowed me to endure. I had no choice but to trust it would get better and I always look to HIM for strength. All of my stories, lessons, tears and joys are my "threads." The bliss is just as important as the tribulations. My tears AND my smile make me. For the first time in my life I realize that all of it was meant to be. I no longer feel like I was cheated. I do the best with the cards God gave me and I'm not too proud to ask another for a hand. I had to learn to swallow my pride because it got me nowhere. Wanna waste some energy? Then get prideful. Pride will lead you to more destructive than you can imagine. I learned to stay away from the loudest person in the room. Attention isn't as important and making a difference. All that glitters isn't gold; it's usually counterfeit. I had a few fingers turn green from fake friendships- fools gold. But that's life, charge it to the game. My sequence of events are valuable. It's funny how you don't appreciate the storm until AFTER you grasp the lesson. I'm embracing my flaws. Trying to love without limits and willing to encourage others to learn from my childish mistakes.......#JesusSaves

Tired but not weary

I've grown to learn that we must thank God in the midst of it all. Thank him for his will because our will only leads to further confusion and destruction. I thank him for NOT answering all of my prayers when I thought I was so desperately sure of where I should go. I thank him for always placing me in the best spot and supplying all of my needs. I thank him for his strength and his grace for without it, I'd be nothing.

At times I grow tired, drained but not weary. In order to have, you must work, period. There are no short cuts in life. Each lesson, however small, adds to your foundation. Each set back brings to life a needed survival element in life. Sometimes I find myself learning the same lesson in different facets with different people in new environments. And no matter the scenario, his word never changes and this is affirmed in repeated lessons.

At times I begin to question; why did my life take this turn? How did I go from this to that? But in all things, I am blessed. I get so angry at myself for allowing certain situations to get the best of me. I get so angry when the enemy steps in and takes advantage of situations that bring out the worse in me. No longer am I upset with the issue but my disappointment shifts to self and it takes my attention from things that are important. But strong women learn how to suit up and select battles wisely. Some people will always seek ways to pull you down. Some people will scope your situation for loop holes and pluck away at your imperfections. Self controversy is draining, but we must not give others the power to steer you away from your faith and values. It is hard but "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Now I have kids to whom I must model good behavior. There is nothing wrong with growing tired, just look to God for strength. We, as parents, must be strong enough not to allow ourselves to get weary in the time of turmoil or else our children will do the same when they are confronted with hard times. This is easier said than done but a must, if we want to elevate ourselves to higher levels and dimensions. No matter your gift, try to use it in creative ways pleasing to God. How can you motivate others not to get weary when tired, how to pray when feeling defeated, how to ask for help when in need and how to remain positive when it feels like everything is falling apart. Start with the person in the mirror and encourage others, even if you are still reminding yourself of his promises. He will never leave us or forsake us, never ever.

Don't let the devil continue to attack your mind. Don't let him steal the joy from your spirit. Surround yourself around like minded individuals who will motivate you in all you do. If you give the devil an inch, he will take a mile so cut him in his tracks. Being a soldier in spiritual warfare is a lifelong battle but don't give up and become a casualty. Stand firm, even if you are not entirely convinced, it is best to stand firm on HIS word than fall on your face to nothing. No matter how tired, never give in to weariness. We are all human and we will continue to learn spiritual strategies until the day we part from earth, but never give up. Weeping may endure for nights, days, months, or even years but with each day, joy is near.