So it's Tuesday November 23rd and I have more on my plate than I can probably handle. My daughter is with grandma (needless to say, I worry when she's gone), my nails need to be done-forget the pedicure- I have no time, my wash is piling up, I stepped on the scale and I'm up 2 lbs, the bills need to be sent out and to top everything off-my husband is getting off of work early today and needs me to run some errands with him! (Sigh)
But I thought it was important to reach out to you to let you know that even though I feel out of control, I am so thankful to God that He has blessed me with my life. You see, last week I met with a video director. He is going to do a video interview for me AT NO CHARGE!! So, I had to drive around Los Angeles to decide which areas I wanted him to shoot and use in the video. As I drove down skid row and saw the mass of homeless people, the wino's, the prostitutes and the drug deals happening in the open, I was humbled once again. To think that I come from a dad that once walked those streets. To remember the horrible places he would take me as a child and the drug use I witnessed, once again humbled me. As I write this my soul is on it's knees in complete surrender to my Savior. In the past, I have had really rough times economically, in relationships, in marriage and in keeping things together for my kids. Through the rough times I prayed so - so much! But, I always gave thanks- no matter what I was going- through because I knew then and I know now that I will never have it as bad as those people on skid row. I have made different choices in my life. My heart goes out to them!
If you come from a rough beginning, if you find yourself worrying about money, if you are in a bad relationship, if you are depressed, I tell you today to rise up! You have a God that is alive and ready to listen to every cry of your heart. He will get you through these times. Don't stop seeking Him. Don't give up on yourself - on the miracle of YOU!
As you read in my book WAR DAD about the years of torment I was subjected to by my dad, it never stopped me from giving back. I always had a passion for the poor and the needy and I still do. At times I was only able to give one turkey at Thanksgiving to the local church. Some years it was a couple of canned goods. I remember making a shoe box for a needy child one Christmas that my church was going to give away. I went to the 99 cents store and bought really cheap items, but I filled that box and off it went. I felt so good because regardless of the items in that box, I knew that child was going to love receiving a box of goodies.
So, what I want you to know is that regardless of your situation, there IS something to be thankful for. (maybe for the eyes to read this) And regardless of your money situation, any little thing you can give to help someone in need is one more thing that person didn't have until you gave.
You matter! You make a difference! You are needed in this big ol' world! And for you - I am thankful :)
Juju
