Stress is a Killer!

Today, my focus is on healing. Recently, I became aware of problems with my joints. On a bad day, my shoulders, elbows, wrists, fingers, hips and knees hurt every time I bend them. And being the bubbly, hyper person that I once was is a challenge, to say the least.


In my research of lupus and all the problems that happen as a result of it, I've found that stress is frequently named as an issue for those with lupus and arthritis. Already, I suffer from Grave's disease, another stress-related disease. I have epilepsy also, and find that I have more seizures when I am stressed out. 


I hope you all will take note of the primary issue in my life- STRESS. Stress is a killer! It is important for those who want to be healthy that you learn to manage your stress levels, being willing to even sacrifice certain things in favor of your health and healing. Our bodies were made to heal themselves, but if we are stressed, not eating well, not exercising, and generally not taking care of ourselves, then we put ourselves at a disadvantage. Our bodies then become weakened and our immune systems compromised. Please take note of your lifestyle now, before your body forces you to.

My Commitment to Writing

In the past six years, I've plotted and outlined more than 25 titles with nearly 20 finished works, 8 of which are on the market. In that time, I've found myself writing many different things for many different reasons. I've questioned and reconsidered my work as a writer/author. During times of low sales, I've questioned my talent. During times of extended writer's block, I've questioned my commitment. The one thing I've always been certain of is the power of the written word.


Sure, things are changing in the publishing industry. As an author and publisher and marketer, I'm in the perfect position to see the changes which are on the horizon. I can see the fast break toward electronic files and less paper usage. I can see the dash to online purchases versus in-store purchases for almost all media types, maybe with the exception of magazines. 


Today, I am committing myself once again to another year of writing articles, books and blog posts. I am committing myself to writing what I feel will be wholesome entertainment or educational, inspirational material for those who want what I have to offer. Another year and another 100,000 plus words! That is my commitment!

It's Amazing What New Can Do

Recently, I got a new haircut and a new lease on life, it seems. Cutting off all that dead hair made me more committed to cutting off other dead things in my life. Since my haircut, I've done more research on healthier eating and living habits, ways to cut down on the fat in my diet, ways to cut back on high stress living, etc. I've also committed to taking fewer narcotics and other strong medicines. What do you need to do to get a new lease on life? No time like the present to get started.

To the GOOD Men

This is just a bit off topic from what I normally post here, but I believe it needs saying.


For so long, women have complained about how difficult it is to find a good man. We harp on and on about the woes of cheating, lying, lazy and abusive men. We talk about the issues of dating, marriage and parenting with these "unreliable" men of the world today. Well, this post is in direct opposition with what most women complain about.


Today, I want to celebrate men. I want to celebrate the regular, everyday guys who are faithful, considerate, kind, trustworthy, hard-working and honest. There are great men out there. Sure they may not be packaged the way we want. Maybe they don't have a six pack. Maybe their love handles are extended and bulging. Maybe they don't have the glamorous job titles or drive the fancy cars. But they are out there. They are our grocery store clerks, railroad workers, mechanics and janitors. They are waiting for some woman to see them for who they are. They are awaiting a good woman, one with vision and patience who can see the value in them without the feigned glory of the flashy lifestyle many "players" favor.


I don't believe there is a shortage of good people. I believe there is a shortage of fighters. Many of us don't want to knuckle up and fight for what we desire. We don't want to endure the hard times. We want everything fast, easy and free of struggle. Well, nothing in life that is highly desired can come without struggle. And when it comes to finding a "good" man, sometimes it isn't a good man that is lacking in the relationship. Sometimes, it is a "wise" woman that is missing. Sometimes, in our search for good men, we stop working on us and we miss the mark ourselves. We don't even realize that we aren't all that great and have many areas that needs improvement too. 


What is my point? Good is a relative word. All people need work at all times. What makes a man or a woman good or acceptable? That they love God, love their mate and are committed to becoming better each day. Good isn't found in the size of the wallet, which can change overnight. Good isn't found in the bulge of the muscles, which is vain. Good isn't found in the glorious titles held by some men (attorney, doctor, bishop). In fact, the qualities that make any man a good man isn't any of the things we see on the Hollywood movies. Is he an attentive father? Is he a caring husband? Does he admit when he's wrong? Can he accept the responsibility for his actions without complaints and excuses? Does he work hard? Is he a leader for his family, particularly in spiritual matters?


Let's not be deceived any further, ladies. After all, it takes a "good" woman to identify a "good" man.

I'm All Over the Web

Today I would like to remind all my readers about some of the other things I have going online. I love connecting with you and building more meaningful relationships with my readers and friends. 

You can catch me on Goodreads, Facebook, my official website, Twitter, LinkedIn, Youtube and of course our marriage blog which will be undergoing some major changes in the coming days and weeks to be more interactive and informative. We want to do more to connect you with others like you also. So, use the links and connect with me. I look forward to seeing you around.

Ignorance- The Most Expensive Freebie of All

Ignorance is not a rare commodity. In fact, it is as plentiful as dirt. You can find it on any corner. In fact, it's free, but costs you everything you have in the end. Why am I discussing that today?

Some people have not yet accepted the responsibility of gathering and applying knowledge in their own lives. No doubt, after we come of age, our education is in our own hands. I'm not speaking of simple schooling in various topics, though this is all well and good too. I am speaking of the knowledge that feeds the mind and the spirit. This is now your responsibility. In these times, it's important that you are personally studying your Bible, maybe even other ancient and recent documents, getting the knowledge you need to defend your faith because in these upcoming times, you will be challenged in the area of faith like never before. Ignorance is NOT on your side in these kind of battles. In fact, the things you are ignorant of will be the things that can cause your downfall.

This year, this day, challenge yourself to begin filling your spiritual cup with daily time with God, both in His Word and in prayer. I share this with you because the times are coming when true inspiration will be rare and you will need to be the inspiration rather than seeking it elsewhere. I love you all!