The right question

My mother and I were talking last night and we got on the subject of how we will be remembered after we pass on from this earthly body. I believe my job (working with some callers that are terminally ill) triggered this conversation. We started out talking about how our friends and family and even those we have met in passing or through our past jobs, etc. would remember us. What would they say if asked to describe us or share a story about us they felt represented us in general. I am sure most have asked themselves this exact question.

Then we started discussing our views on God and how we see him as a 'Father'; asking ourselves what will we have to admit to and verbally say to him, the Creator, when we meet him. He will already know the good the bad and the ugly, but how will he react? I know this is one of many questions that usually go along with "what does it all mean?", "What is my purpose?", "How did this all come about?", "Does one creator really exist?", "In the flesh does one actually sin or is it living in a sinful world that is to blame?", the questions go and on. And I respect all opinions, beliefs, faith or lack of. I have discussed these types of questions with my mom before and with friends, family, ministers, coworkers, strangers, etc.

But last night as we started talking about the afterlife, regrets, praises, accomplishments, sins, etc. I started thinking we were actually asking the wrong question - It's not about what others will say about it that we need to 'worry' about or focus on, it's what God (your creator) will say to us and about us. You could survey 100 people about what their opinion of me is and I'm sure some would be praise and positive, while others would be negative and harsh even; depending on what day or situation they became in contact with me and how they viewed me. Some might have one incident (good or bad) to base their answer on while others would have a lifetime of stories and memories.

I admire those that have already had this self discovery, but last night as we talked I began to realize I tend to think a lot about what others think or how they react (hence the meaning behind this blog) and like a light bulb shining brightly on in my face I realized I need to only worry about being true to myself, willing to take responsibility for my actions (right and wrong) when the time comes to meet my maker, and be confident enough to look back on my life during my last breath and feel I lived a life that reflects my true character while (hopefully) positively influencing another along the way. I realize I have made mistakes and I'm sure I will make more, but I can learn from them and I can be comfortable enough with myself to admit I have made them. I think (my humble opinion) the purpose of life is to enjoy creation/nature, what makes you happy, etc. while paving the road for others to do the same.

What do you want to accomplish in this life?

Happy New Year!

I am still working on this site. I have been so focused on the new adventure and the truck driving site that I have slacked here. :-(

I have been working on my book though, in the past week (really about two actual days of writing and three or four of day dreaming) I have written 3100 words. May not seem like a lot since I have about 75,000 more to go, but it's better than 1 word or 1500...it's a start and I'm happy with how it's working out and where it's going. Writing is beautiful and I feel so good when I'm doing it. Why do I put it off so much?!!!?

Site of the month

My new favorite website. I had not idea that the Indie Bound site listed more than independently owned bookstores and restaurants! I am loving their wish list for books, and so much more! :-)

LIfe Changes

Well, living gluten free certainly forces you to make some changes and to really look at your diet! I did not realize how much bread, pasta, and baked goods I ate. :-( It's nice in a way that I was forced to find out this information, but it's also been a difficult transition. There are a lot of restaurants that offer gluten free choices, most of the time if I am going to eat out I head to the website and see if they offer a gluten free menu and I ask when I get there if I can see a gluten free menu. Most have been very kind and accommodating. I found a good bread option; Udis. I keep it in the freezer until I am ready to put together a pb & j. It thaws easily and quickly. Gluten free peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies from Pamela's products are not bad; crumbly, but will satisfy the sweet craving!

Eating lots of salads, chicken, rice. I am thankful that Chipotle Mexican Grill has a nice selection of gluten free items; my fav is the chicken bowl with guac. :-)

So I'm adapting to my new lifestyle and yes I have lost weight, I think 10 pounds or so. A good boost of confidence to get back to the gym and watch the pounds melt off even faster!

Another feel good story

I love feel good news as you know. So click Here for an unexpected touching story. I love that this family shared such a memorable moment and found it touched others as well. Unexpected moments that are pure and shared are priceless. Thanks Chris and Kenneth. :-)

Celiac...

I'm starting to get back to the land of the living! Found out a few health issues were going on at once, most are getting better and will be healed. I did find out that I have Celiac Disease. The 'no gluten' disease. I am slowly learning about this common, normally undiagnosed semi serious disease! Thank God there is a lot of information out there about it. Some WONDERFUL websites and a lot of restaurants and even prepacked foods that are gluten free friendly! Right now I have cut out all bread, pasta, flour products, etc. I realize there are gluten free versions of all and plan on finding those options at some point in the near future. I know this might sound weird, but about 4 days of no gluten and I feel a little better; more energy, sleeping better, less stomach pain, etc. :-) And I'm assuming by cutting out a lot and upping my veggie and fruit intake I will lose some weight. BONUS.

So I'm still learning about this illness, but so thankful there are so many options out there and I FINALLY know what is wrong. Any suggestions or questions just let me know! :-)

Medical leave

I'm taking some time off from posting for a bit, but I am still thinking as a writer and brainstorming.
I will be back soon! A ship is safe in a harbor, but that is not what ships were made for! (or something like that!)