Faith

Do you consider FAITH a noun or a verb? Let's start with the dictionary definition of faith: something that is believed especially with strong conviction (Merriam Webster Dictionary). Personally, I identify with the biblical definition: Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1). Now, do you consider FAITH a noun or a verb? A noun is a person, place or thing but a verb is an action.

To me, FAITH is a verb. I know you are probably wondering why does it matter if it is a noun or a verb. It matters because without faith, it is impossible to make it through life. Your FAITH becomes activated during some of the most challenging times in life. Trust me, I may only be 30 years old but there have been situations in my life that have caused me to rely solely on my faith.

Honestly, FAITH becomes tested when you least expect it. A couple of weeks ago, my FAITH was tested with news of possible layoffs. I did not become nervous but I remained calm. My FAITH reassured me that it will be alright. Before my human instincts could kick in to cause me to worry about bills, responsibilities and other uncertainties; my FAITH was already working in overdrive.

Presently, I am still faced with uncertainty but I know that it will all work out. I know that sometimes things have to be taken away or altered to allow us to reach higher heights. For the past 3 years, I have prayed constantly about my purpose and direction. I want to be able to utilize my gifts in the spiritual and natural world. I know that I have to maintain my FAITH in order to get to the place where I need to be in my life.

Though the outcome may seem far away and the obstacles may seem too great, I know that it will be ok. I have a strong feeling that the situation will work out for my good. It is so easy to quote the definition of FAITH or to tell someone else to "Keep the FAITH". The hard part comes when you have to ACTIVATE your FAITH.

Now, do you consider FAITH a noun or a verb? I am currently activating my FAITH because I know that even though the situation may seem impossible, it is more than possible.

LOVE

Have you ever been so happy and full of love that you feel like you could burst? My heart gets so overwhelmed with feelings of extreme joy that I think I cannot take anymore. It is the best feeling!

I often get full of joy when I go home to DeRidder. My family makes my heart soooo full because I love them soooooo much! I also get full of joy when I begin to think of my relationship with my boyfriend. I get so full of joy that it almost brings me to tears (happy tears!). I also get full of joy when I go to church. Sometimes the message that is being brought forth is just for me and it consumes my heart and makes my spirit so full! 

Love is so powerful! It can be so hard to describe a feeling that is so deep. I know that it feels so good to experience love in its purest form. I can only hope that everyone else can experience love the way that I have. 

Valentine's Day was yesterday and it makes me so happy to see everyone celebrate a holiday that is centered around love. Now, I know there are some people that are ANTI- Valentine's Day participants... you know, the ones that say it's a holiday created by florists and greeting card companies or it may be the ones that are single. Personally, I believe that sometimes as humans we need a holiday that prompts us to remember the people that are special to us and express our love. Many people stated, "Valentine's Day is just one day, but you should show love EVERYDAY". That is also true but we get so wrapped up in our everyday busy lives that we don't show how much our loved ones mean to us.

At the end of the day; the candy, cards, jewelry, dinner, etc that Valentine's Day brings is awesome. Some people go above and beyond to make that someone special know that they are loved. Valentine's Day may seem like a day reserved for your significant other but you can spread your love to everyone that holds a special place in your heart.

In the midst of all the sweet treats, flowers and food... My Valentine's Day wish is that everyone's heart is filled with love, so much love that you feel like you could burst. Though the feeling is not tangible, it is everlasting. What better Valentine's gift than a full heart?  Happy Valentines Day!