Slow down, already!

Those of you who know me know that I do everything fast: talk, walk, drive, etc. It is a challenge for me to slow down in most of the things I do. Today, two things happen that remind me of my need for a slower pace.

I was running a quick errand, and a guy pulled out in front of me, cutting me off. I looked in my rear view mirror, and absolutely nobody was behind me. But for some reason, he felt the need to move quickly, get on the road faster, and turn right in front of me - when he could've waited about 5 seconds and turned safely behind me without causing me to slow down.

I started to get frustrated until I felt the Lord stop me. He reminded me of how often I, in my desire to "get things moving" or "get on the road" in my own life, that I cut off how God is wanting to accomplish what He wants in me. If I would just WAIT and SLOW DOWN, I would still get on the road - just in a more proper time and in a safer manner.

So I forgave the guy who cut me off - because suddenly, I had a lot in common with him!

The second thing that happened was when I was waiting for someone to pick me up. I was standing outside waiting, deciding if I should make a phone call or go inside until they arrived. This time, the Lord directed my waiting toward enjoying the moment. I realized that dozens of birds were chirping - and it was a beautiful sound! The 70 degree weather was accompanied by beautiful sunshine on my face and a cool breeze that made it pleasant to stand outside. The beautiful trees swayed around me, and the bright blue sky held fluffy clouds. I thanked God for that moment - for my family, our health, and for the beauty He was sharing with me. I've probably missed so many moments like that in my life. . .I don't want to miss them again!

So "wait" is no longer a "4 letter word" to me. I'm learning to slow down for my safety and for God's timing, and to enjoy where I'm at in the meantime!

On Guard!

So you may have heard about the latest photo scandel involving Miley Cyrus, aka Hannah Montana. Miley is a super cute, Disney star who's had a very clean image and has talked about being a girl who lets her faith and family help guide her. My own 2 girls are pretty impressed with Hannah Montana, and she has seemed fairly solid. . .until getting herself in some hot water with some pretty provocative photos.

Recently famed photographer Annie Leibowitz takes pictures of Miley for Vanity Fair. Her parents were there all day, but they left before the last shots of the day were taken. Although Miley's grandma and teacher were still on set, Annie and Miley decide to shoot some "artsy" shots, which include Miley wrapped in a sheet, appearing to be nude.

What has followed is outrage that a 15 year old would be shot in this manner, that her minders on the set didn't step in and now Miley has apologized, embarassed over the situation.

As a mom of two growing girls, this whole situation has pricked my heart. You only have to look at Britney Spears to see the tragedy of a young girl exposed to way too much too soon. And now Miley has been exposed to scandel because she was put in the hands of someone she trusted (Annie Leibowitz), and I'm assuming her parents trusted, as well.

I felt a warning in my spirit to be even more on guard for my kids. The only one who is assigned to the post of guarding the hearts and minds of Meagan and Kelsey are me and Craig. Yes, many of you help us in that process, and we could not do it without you! But Craig and I will stand before God and give an account for the way we parented and protected our girls. We must be watchful at all times to guard what comes in to our home. I'm sure Miley's parents felt she was OK when they left that photo shoot - but she wasn't. Am I aware in every situation I bring my children into? We must be diligent to protect our kids so that their paths are aimed squarely at their heavenly Father.

Article on Radiantmag.com

Radiantmag.com posted another article of mine! The article is called "It's All About The Little Things." Here's the link: http://radiantmag.com/article.php?ID=429