Self...

This message hit home for me in the past few weeks. We are coming to the end of another year, and 2011 will be upon us before we know it.

I sometimes wrestle with the knowing that others don't understand what or how I am feeling, and get frustrated on some level. But as I have grown older and I thought a little wiser it is more important that I understand myself first. If we have no understanding of self how do we expect others to know who or what we are?

Good question? Do I have an easy one answer solution? I do not. For it is in our growing that becomes a knowing. At times we grow weary and just want to rest our head, our thoughts, our busy minds, and our bodies. This time of the year brings about that quiet hibernation time for me. I love nothing more than a chilly afternoon, a drizzle or pouring down of God's tears, a loud clap of thunder and a quiet house filled with the aroma of chicken soup cooking on the stove, and sipping a hot cup of tea with lemon and honey that soothes my mind and body.

To get to know self we must become quiet, empty our minds, and feel all we need to feel. Whether that be tears of sadness, joy or a release of sorts, we must feel and release to be able to receive. Sometimes we hold on too tight to those feelings, not allowing others to see our pain because those we love most may think we are weak. But I have found for myself if I don't release, life just continues to nag at me and I can't receive God's love or joy.

I am grateful everyday, but I still have moments of pain, sadness and regret, I just don't live there. That is how I am getting to know myself, by being myself. That is how others have begun to know me. Don't be afraid to be you and allow others in.

Let the wind carry away your fears, tears, and sadness and allow the warm sun to shine on your face and your heart. As you begin to know and love self others will follow.

We all go through pain and sorrow, but the presence of God, like a warm, comforting blanket, can shield us and protect us and allow the deep inner joy to surface, even in the most devastating circumstances.

Love in my life always protects. Love in my life always trusts. Love in my life always hopes. Love in my life always perserveres. (1Cor. 13:7)