Know Thyself

What an amazing summer it has been so far!

The hubby and I have been enjoying the great United States this summer. We love traveling and so far, have become acquainted with most of the Northeastern coastal states, so it's time to head a little West - but recently, I have been reflecting on some things.

We love traveling, enjoying God's nature (especially when there is a Frisbee involved) and hiking. Before we even knew each other existed, we took time to know who we were and what we liked, so when we got married, we had a long list of things we just continued doing together.
 

There are many out there who do not know what they love doing or who they are. The world is constantly bombarding us with ideologies, gadgets and fashion trends that try to tell us who we should be, but always falls short.

When was the last time you asked this question: Who are you?

Have you ever contemplated if you know yourself and what makes you 'tick'? In the age of increasing depression and frustration with life, mannnnyyy frankly hate who they are, what they do and don't know how to get out of that rut.

I don't have the answers to each case, but I do know when I find myself 'stuck', I often stop and take both spiritual and intellectual inventory of who I am and what my needs are. How do I do that you ask? I often find myself asking and answering these questions:

1) Are you joyful? Are you happy? - You may think this is one in the same thing, but it's not. The Biblical definition of joy shows it is a part of the fruit of the Spirit so it's a heavenly principle and not a feeling. I believe one can be joyful, but may not be happy at a moment in time because joy isn't regulated by situation and/or feeling, but happiness is.

2) What can I change? - There may be things you can change about yourself and/or your situation. Know what you can change and find out how to change them. Also, know what you cannot change, and accept them.

3) Do I need help? (If yes, when/what type?) - This may be obvious to some, but not all: If it's Spiritual help you need, then seek it from Spiritual sources, if it's social help you need, then go to social authorities. Alas, sometimes we mix the two and may seek peace and tranquility in social events and activities when true peace emanates from The Prince of Peace Himself. Make sure you know the differences so you can know where to get the help you seek.

4) Try something new! - I would have never known I love rock-climbing and snowboarding had I never tried either one. Try something new and expand your horizons a bit. You may discover you are a natural at a sport/exercise, or even better, you could also learn what you are awful at :-)

Okay, that's all folks. These are verryyyy broad, so drop me a line if you have any questions, suggestions, additions or subtractions.

God bless you all, and spend QUANTITY as well as QUALITY time getting to know YOU!