Uniquely Yours Ministries

{Gratefulness Week} Freely given grace.

October 9, 2015October 5, 2015 UYM

Written By: Angela Ridsdale

I believe that gratefulness stems from knowledge. The knowledge that you have things, much more than materials like clothes or cars. But of the things that are not easily bought. The talent you find within yourself, the forgiveness you can share with others, even the grace that has been freely given to you.

These are not things we think about daily. But are things we should be so grateful for. When you truly know what you have and have been given you can start to conceptualize what being grateful is really about. Personally, I get so caught up in this world and what I don’t have that I completely miss this concept. That the God of this universe has given me something so powerful as grace!

“Do you see what we’ve got? An unshakable kingdom! And do you see how thankful we must be? Not only thankful, but brimming with worship, deeply reverent before God.” Hebrews 12:28

Over the past few months I have really learned to show the love that I have been given and God has been teaching me this in extraordinary ways. Working with people who may not be able to do the same basic abilities that I can do has shown me not to take my life for granted. But, to thank God for everything I do easily like walking, eating, dressing and even speaking. When you know what you have. You know what you can give to others, especially to those who may not have what you do. Above all else I am grateful that I can show love on a daily basis to those who may need it the most.

I encourage you all to take a look at life and know that you have a lot to give even when it seems small. Love has been given to you and you have the ability to show that same love to others.

“My beloved friends, let us continue to love each other since love comes from God.” 1 John 4:7

About Angela Risdale:

Angela is 20 years old and love cats. She just recently got engaged to a wonderful man named Anthony whom She looks forward to sharing the rest of her life with. She began her journey with Christ as a teenager and has brought Her love of God, everywhere she goes. She has deep values in genuineness and truth. She is currently working on her degree in Social Service Work specializing in Gerontology with hopes to work with older adults in disadvantaged neighborhoods throughout the community. Some of her passions include: Singing, reading and being with her lovely Youth and Young Adults groups!

“The Lord is gracious and righteous; Our God is full of compassion. The Lord protects the unwary; when I was brought low, he saved me. Return to your rest, my soul, for the Lord has been good to you. For you, Lord, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before the Lord in the land of the living.” ~Psalm 116:5-9

Guest-Writers

{Gratefulness Week} Taylor’s Story.

October 8, 2015October 8, 2015 UYM

Written By: Taylor Whitlow

It so happens that expectations rarely turn out as they were previously conceived. When my parents thought they were having one child, they were blessed with two: one “normal” and one disabled with severe Autism Spectrum Disorder. My brother Kyle’s lack of ability to communicate, contain emotions, and live “normally” proved to be a huge obstacle growing up, and even is today. Regardless, experiencing God’s work through Kyle has been invaluable to me and I would not change my situation for the world.

Individuals living with high-strung Autism are often times very routine-oriented. Every day consists of the same schedule and when that routine is broken, tempers fly. This often caused issues in public. Outbursts, screaming, tantrums – both my family and strangers in the grocery store experienced it all. Kyle definitely stood out in a crowd when issues began to arise. I mean, what 14 year old throwing a tantrum in the middle of Target wouldn’t draw attention? Upon further thought, this situation made me realize that Jesus also stood out in a crowd. Jesus performed miracles that made crowds stare. No ordinary person could heal the man with a withered hand in Mark 3, or feed over five thousand men and their families with barely enough food for one man in John 6. In this way, I experienced God’s work directly through my twin brother.

In every situation my brother finds himself in, he remains the same. At home, school, or at the mall, he is authentic in who he is. No matter who he is around, Kyle is not ashamed to be himself. He never hides his disability, nor tries to be someone he is not. When thought of in this way, Jesus parallels quite well to my brother. No matter who Jesus was around – his disciples, Pharisees, or even tax collectors – Jesus did not fake who he was. God loves unconditionally and never changes his attributes. (Malachi 3:6) He is who He is. He does not change, for He is the never changing God.

Throughout my childhood, I prayed for Kyle’s recovery so he could turn “back to normal” every night before I fell asleep. I longed for “normalness” and stability. But today, looking back on those nights of prayer, I thank God things stayed as they were. As time progressed and hardships became more frequent and pressing, I realized that this is God’s plan for my family and I learned to love. I learned to love Kyle’s quirks. I learned to love the abundance of irrelevant ramblings that spew from his mouth. I even learned to love his tantrums. Without these things, I would not have experienced God’s work so prominently in my life. I learned how God loves unconditionally, despite disabilities or setbacks. Through all the muck, God’s love shines through. We as Christians are to strive to achieve this level of love and commitment – to mirror God’s compassion and love for all.

Despite the multitude of challenges Kyle has given our family along the way, I refer to my brother as a blessing. I am so grateful he was put into my life and that God chose me of all people to be his twin sister. He has taught my family and I so much and has revealed God’s likeness to me in so many ways. For God’s plan and my brother alike, I am truly grateful.

About Taylor Whitlow:

Taylor is an 18 year old Senior in high school. She enjoys listening to music and playing violin. She plans to major in Graphic Design next year. She has a twin brother that has Autism.

Kerrington's Posts, Let's talk about Dating, {Faith}, {Love}

{NEW} Devotional Column Series!!!

October 7, 2015October 7, 2015 UYM

Uniquely Yours Ministries is proud to present to you, dear readers…

Happily Ever After Starts Now,
Is a monthly-weekend devotional series written by UYM Founder and President, Kerrington Sweeney!

Happily Ever After starts now, is dedicated to equipping single women to truly find their callings right NOW! Together through this devotional, we will begin to shatter mindsets with the knowledge that, we can know the Lord fully and serve him wholly with or without a young man by our sides. Through the passages we study, and the personal stories I share, I hope and pray that you are compelled by Love to not become stagnant in the Season of Life you are currently in. Sisters, your Happily ever after starts right NOW! The choices you make today in these very moments, will dictate your future marriages’ one day. Join us every other Saturday, to begin living your Happily Ever After!

Column’s First Official Publication Date: Saturday, October 17th, 2015

Until Next Time,

~The UYM Team

Guest-Writers

{Gratefulness Week} Life came crashing down…

October 7, 2015October 5, 2015 UYM

Written By: Nichole Howson

Just over a year ago my whole life came crashing down (you can read my story here!

I hit rock bottom and had to begin rebuilding my life (you can read my recovery story here! ) I couldn’t do this alone and in the spirit of Thanksgiving, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all the people who helped me through.

To the family I lived with in Belleville. I want to thank you for being there through those two long and difficult nights. I want to thank you for still loving me even though I turned your whole life upside down. I want to thank you for your continual support and friendship. I will never be able to thank you enough.

To the wonderful family friend whom jumped into action and got in contact with my parents. You saved my life. I will forever be indebted to you. Thank you for your prayers and for caring. I love you so much.

To the Doctors, Nurses and Crisis Workers in the Windsor Hospital. Thank you for your service. Thank you for being the response team that so many people desperately need. Furthermore, thank you for listening, helping and encouraging. In a very stressful and terrifying time you offered the support that my family and I needed.

To my doctor and the team of psychologists… your job cannot be easy. I never realized how many people struggle with the same things as I did until I needed you. Thank you for being the eyes, the ears and voice behind those who struggle with mental illness.

To the lady whom counseled me in her living room. I was so sick when I moved home and full of hurt and anger. Your prayers and guidance brought me to a place where I was able to forgive, let go and become whole. You led me back to a place where I could pray and trust God again. Thank you.

To the pastoral staff at my church. Thank you for your prayers and for listening when I needed someone to talk to. I needed the prayer and I knew that I could count on you for the encouragement and biblical wisdom.

To my blogging team at Defying Shadows… My blog was my therapy. It was my way of working through all the things I was struggling with and helped me get to my place of healing. I could never have gotten there without the help of you beautiful women. I love you all.

To my best friend Jossie. I called you constantly, talking about what I was going through, ranting and asking for advice. Thank you for your listening ear and for your endless friendship. Thank you for the hundreds of giggle filled phone chats. Thank you for the mini vacations to your end of town where I could get away from the stress.

To my siblings. When I moved home your worlds came screeching to a halt. Life got much more difficult before it got better. But you three beautiful souls didn’t take it out on me. You were supportive. You showed love and compassion. You became some of my closest friends. I want to thank you in advance for being supportive through my bad days and for continuing to love me… even if I am a pain in the butt sometimes.

To my parents. You two are the strongest people I know. You took care of me, build me back up when I couldn’t stand on my own and welcomed me back into your home with open arms. You didn’t get angry about my bad decisions. All you cared about was my safety. You make me a better person. I don’t know where I would be without you. Thank you.

To everyone else in my life. Thank you for being a part of this crazy journey. If you’re new here…. Buckle up… the ride is just getting started.

About Nicole Howson:

Nichole is a Social Media Marketing Manager, student, daughter and friend. She’s working on her Marketing Diploma and has a Certificate of Christian Theology. She is an avid coffee lover who enjoys a good movie or book. She takes great joy in organizing, scheduling, and volunteering. Her passion for volunteerism extends specifically to those who are hurting, whether it is emotionally, physically, or mentally.

Guest-Writers

{Gratefulness Week} Grateful for…

October 6, 2015October 5, 2015 UYM

Written By: Cindy Justice

I am truly grateful for my husband, Kevin, for the blessings of sharing the past 27 years of marriage and our two wonderful daughters, Carmen and Camille. Watching them grow, laugh and dream keeps things in perspective.

Other things I’m grateful for:

1. It is important to take time and be grateful. My best advice I received is a marriage is

100 percent by both the husband and wife. Don’t ever take things for granted.

2. Good health is also at the top of this list. Take care of yourself.

3. Spend your money wisely.

4. Always remember your parents…they gave you life.

5. Enjoy the weekends…make them magical.

6. Make some mistakes…it’s a great learning experience. We grow smarter over time. Laugh ALOT at your mistakes…Without laughter, the world would be a sad place.

7. I am grateful for a place to call home and the freedoms our armed forces have given us to live in the USA (because we know…freedom isn’t free).

8. Dream…The moon and stars encourage us to dream. Don’t forget to breathe in some fresh air. Sunshine always brightens my day.

9. Also, our friends which we have shared this crazy journey called life that has been

abundantly marked by the grace and mercy of God. Focus on your friendships. It’s the quality not the quantity.

Hebrews 12:28

Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken,

and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe.

Philippians 4:6-7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and

supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And

the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts

and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Guest-Writers

{Gratefulness Week} Darryn’s Story.

October 5, 2015September 28, 2015 UYM

Written by Wayne & Renee Mills

We want to share with you what we call Darryn’s Story. Darryn is our third child. Our other two children are Ryan and Michelle who were 7 and 5 at the time of Darryn’s birth.

As all parents do, we prayed every day for our unborn baby’s health and development (especially since Renee had miscarried twice before). Things seemed to be progressing along normally and the day finally arrived. On May 19, 1995 Darryn was born, but seemed to be struggling to breathe and looked a little grey to us. With an oxygen tube in front of his face, he would pink up a little bit, but then soon after the greyish colour would reappear and he continued to struggle to breathe. Upon our continued insistence that he was in trouble the nurse took him to the NICU to be “observed”. Little did we know that we would not be bringing our baby boy home until he was two months old.

Once brought to the NICU Darryn was intubated and would remain on a ventilator for the next 19 days. Numerous tests were done and it was discovered that his kidneys were not working. It was decided that he would need to be sent to Children’s Hospital of Western Ontario (CHWO) in London to diagnose the reason his kidneys were not working and to try to remedy the problem. This is the point that we realized how critically ill he really was. At three days of age Darryn was transported to CHWO by helicopter while we drove the 2 hour trip white knuckled, praying all the way.

At CHWO Darryn underwent many more tests and procedures to try to challenge his kidneys to work, but to no avail. When he was 12 days old his doctor decided that a biopsy needed to be done. It was determined that his kidneys had not developed while he was in the womb, and that they would never be able to function. We were told that he would have to be put on dialysis until he was big enough for a kidney transplant, or we could let nature take its course. In simpler terms, we could intervene or let him die. Darryn underwent another procedure to insert a dialysis catheter and started dialysis that very same day. We didn’t yet know all this would entail, but leaving our precious baby to die was definitely not an option for us.

With each day of dialysis performed, Darryn’s blood was cleansed from the harmful poisons that had been building up from his lack of kidney function. Two days later we were able to hold him for the first time since his birth. Even though he was still on the ventilator, the nurses took the time to make sure that we were able to bond with Darryn now that he wasn’t as critically ill.

Once dialysis was started he was able to receive breast milk through an NG tube. Up until this time he was only receiving tiny amounts of IV fluids because his body could not eliminate fluids on its own.

As time went on, Darryn’s lungs developed enough that he was able to breathe on his own and the ventilator was removed when he was 19 days old. Then came the daunting task of seeing if he would be able to breastfeed or bottle feed. The majority of babies on dialysis do not have any desire to do either and are fed through a permanent G tube. The fact that he was able to breast feed is a miracle and almost unheard of.

During our time in the hospital we experienced a gamut of emotions. Not knowing if he was going to survive when he was being airlifted to London. One older nurse mistakenly telling us that they cannot do dialysis on babies. His doctor telling us that Darryn would not die on his shift. These were the days where we also felt the peace that cannot be explained or understood.

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7

It is something that can only be experienced while going through difficult times where you know God has you completely in the palm of his hand. It is a time when you can approach the throne of grace at the bedside of your child in the NICU.

Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. John 14:27

Once Darryn was healthy enough to be discharged from the hospital we were trained how to do the dialysis at home. They loaded us up with our dialysis machine and filled our van full of supplies to take with us. That day couldn’t come soon enough for us to bring our sweet baby home. As time went on Darryn had to overcome many obstacles like minimal growth, physical delays, infections and hospitalizations, but through it all we knew that God was holding him in the palm of His hand.

Throughout this time we were constantly praying for our MIRACLE – that Darryn’s kidneys would miraculously be healed and begin to function as they should. The thing is – we aren’t able to see God’s big picture – and as we look back we see many “smaller miracles” that God definitely performed for our son.

When Darryn was 3 and one-half years old he was finally big enough to have his transplant. Wayne was able to donate one of his kidneys in a 7 hour operation at Toronto’s Sick Kids Hospital. Darryn was in the hospital for one month and we needed to stay in Toronto for an additional month while his anti rejection meds were regulated and his new kidney was monitored to make sure it was functioning well.

Another blessing was having willing family members to take care of our two older children, both when we were gone when Darryn was in London and when he had his transplant in Toronto. We have often wondered “How can people go through things like this without the Lord?” Not a day goes by that we don’t see the grace of God since we have a walking miracle living in our own home. The years have come and gone and our lives have changed dramatically. We are not the same people who drove to the hospital in Windsor just 20 years ago hoping to be home a couple days later with our newborn baby. Our journey continues and we find ourselves stronger and more appreciative of the blessings in our lives. Things that used to be important just don’t seem to be a priority any more. Our marriage is stronger and our children know that our God is alive and still working miracles. We are so thankful to the Lord for walking our journey with us.

Darryn’s story does not end here. Just last December he was diagnosed with cancer in his brain. We are so, so grateful to God for healing Darryn. Check out this post as he shares from his heart how the Lord has brought him through this journey.

About Wayne & Renee Mills:

Wayne & Renee Mills have been married for 29 years. They have 3 children: Ryan (28) who is married to Faith, Michelle (26) who is married to Jeremy, and Darryn (20). They are also the proud Papa and Nana to 2 beautiful grandchildren: Dillon (4) and Emma (2). They are always happy to share about their journey with Darryn so that someone else might be encouraged.

Guest-Writers

{Gratefulness Week}

October 4, 2015September 28, 2015 UYM

Written By: Monique Pye

Living with a grateful heart allows you to see God’s many blessings He has so richly given to us and it provides a way for more joy and peace to come into our lives. When I was asked to write a post about “Gratefulness”, I began to think about something that I could share with you that I was grateful for, but not one thing stood out above others. Because there is not just one thing I’m grateful for, but many things.

I’m grateful for God’s grace.
I’m grateful for my husband who loves me unconditionally.
I’m grateful for my three beautiful children.

I’m grateful for friends who encourage me.

I’m grateful for God’s forgiveness.
I’m grateful for the first sip of coffee in the morning.
I’m grateful for hearing laughter in my house.
I’m grateful for learning from my mistakes.
I’m grateful for my parents.
I’m grateful that my sister is my best friend.
I’m grateful for each good-night kiss.
I’m grateful that The Lord has provided my husband with a wonderful job so that I am able to serve my family first as a stay at home mommy.

I’m grateful for exactly what I have. Because without God, I would have nothing…John 3:27 tells us,
“No one can receive anything unless God gives it from heaven.”

These are just simple things, that sometimes get overlooked in the busy-ness of my day, and I’m grateful that this post has given me the opportunity to sit and reflect on the many things that God has blessed me with, and for that I am grateful!

About Monique Pye:

Monique is a coffee-loving, Friends-quoting, Jesus-loving lady. Born and raised in Essex County, Ontario, she has been married to her hubby Jeff for 8 years. Jeff and Monique have three children; Josh (6), Matthew (4), and Breanna (2). Monique serves her family first as a stay-at-home Mommy and she also serves her local church in various ways. She enjoys scrapbooking, baking and crochet. If she’s not caring for one of the above- you can find her obsessing over keeping everything organized and tidy.

Guest-Writers

{Gratefulness Week} Giving THANKS even when…

October 3, 2015September 28, 2015 UYM

Written By: Lois Prindler

“This is the worst day of my life!” my little Eeyore-child lamented as he recounted the day’s ‘tragedies’ for me – a list of things that did not go the way he had hoped or liked them to. I stifled a smile as I sat next to him, sliding my arm around his shoulders. Gently, I began to remind him of the things that were good about his day and the many things he had to be thankful for, but he countered my list with negativity and downplayed all of his blessings – clearly desiring to wallow in self-pity rather than changing his perceptions.

I sighed deeply – partly because I realized the difficult life that awaits him if he doesn’t alter this way of thinking, and partly because I recognized myself in him. How many times have I felt discontent with my blessings? How often do I view disappointments as tragedies, convinced that life is all about me and should go exactly as I want it to?

Proverbs 15:15 says, “All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.” I have seen this illustrated in life so often, but one example really stands out to me.

I was in the hospital for an extended stay so I got to experience a number of roommates. One lady, although very pleasant to me, was continually expressing discontent with nearly everything in her life. The food was terrible and they always got her order wrong. The beds were so uncomfortable and the view from our very large window was the worst. She had no patience with the nurses and she had frequent spats with family members. My heart went out to her as I saw such a miserable soul, unable to control the people or circumstances around her and unwilling to change her perspective.

By contrast, I lay in a post-op ward one day and listened to the most grateful soul! An elderly gentleman kept expressing appreciation for every little thing the nurses did and you could sense how it lifted their spirits. Although he was in pain, his focus was on others, and he was determined to be thankful. I just knew that that man’s soul had a continual feast!

There are a multitude of things in our lives over which we have no control, but no matter how crazy our circumstances may be, there is one aspect of our lives over which we exercise full command – the choice to give thanks in spite of it all.

The Scriptures are full of exhortations to give thanks. There are always things to give thanks for, and even when they are not so evident, there is always one to give thanks to!

“Give thanks to the LORD for He is good, His love endures forever!” (Ps. 106:1; 107:1; 118:1,29; 139)

“Give thanks to the LORD, call on His name; make known among the nations what He has done.”

(1 Chron. 16:8; Ps. 5:1; Is. 12:4)

“Rejoice in the LORD always, I will say it again – rejoice! Do not be anxious about anything but in everything with Thanksgiving; present your requests to God.” (Phil.4:4,6)

“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thess. 5: 16-18)

That’s fairly easy to do when things are going the way you like them to, but what about when they’re not? What about those times when we are really struggling? How are we supposed to give thanks then, and is it really fair to expect us to?

I have struggled with depression my whole life, to the point, at times, when it hurt just to breathe – to be alive. I am convinced that without the LORD, my rock, I would not be here today. He has been my stronghold through the darkest nights of my soul, and through it all He has taught me to put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. This is how we overcome! There were times I literally screamed out what I knew to be true of Him – His reality; His faithfulness; and His unending love.

He showed me how, “As we lift up our hands unto our King; darkness is torn away, losing its sting;”* How I could say with Job, “I know that my redeemer lives” and “Though He slay me, yet will I hope in Him.” (Job 19:25, 13:15)

God showed me that a sacrifice of praise is one that’s made in difficult circumstances – when it’s hard, and that it pleases Him and frees us.

“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit of lips that confess His name… for with such sacrifices, God is pleased.” (Heb. 13:15,16)

We aren’t told to give thanks because God needs His ego stroked – He knows how awesome He is and He’s not insecure. It’s because WE need to know it! We need to be constantly reminded of His goodness; of His love; of His sufficiency; of His faithfulness and mercy; His righteousness and His glory! We need to remind ourselves of all He’s done for us; to get ourselves off the little thrones that our egos have made us and to focus our eyes on Him who is forever praised.

He is praiseworthy – no matter what we’re experiencing or how we’re feeling, and He will bless and inhabit the praises of His people. Praise the LORD!

(*Annie Herring)

About Lois Prindler:

Lois Prindler is a child of the Most High God and the recipient of His lavish grace! Her identity and significance is found in Him. The LORD Jesus is her everything!!

On top of the countless earthly blessings, God has given Her a loving husband, made her a grateful mom to twelve precious people, and an enthusiastic grandma! These are her daily delights.

Guest-Writers, Taylor's Posts

{Gratefulness Week} Being Grateful in all Circumstances…

October 2, 2015September 28, 2015 UYM

Written By: Taylor Fast

Being grateful is easy to do when life is going our way and it is a simple task to smile and thank God for all that is going right in our life. Though, on the flip side it is hard to thank our God in situations where we feel nothing is going our way, and we are not sure if God is watching out for us anymore. When I find myself getting down on circumstances in my life that I wish were going in a different direction I attempt to remind myself that God has a better plan for my life then I can even imagine. I think of this verse every time I find myself not putting all my trust in our God.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

I remember a time in my life last summer where I was having a battle with God. I am sure he was just waiting for me to give in to His will. What I wanted and what He wanted for my life were two completely different things. It took me a long time to feel comfortable and trust God with this new change in my life. I was upset, hurt, and felt like God wasn’t listening to me.

I had to lean on Godly people in my life and the word to help me look for answers. Though it took me some time to heal, this moment in my life that felt like an eternity brought me closer to God. I went back to the basics with God and searched for Him through the Bible for my knowledge and strength.

“I sought the Lord, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.” (Psalm 34:4)

Though it took me a while to be grateful for the circumstance I was in, I learned. When I was hurting, people were there for me and kept me positive and listened to me through my hardship. What a blessing and something to be grateful for!

Now a year later I look back and am so grateful that I went through that trial in my life as I would not be on the same positive path I am and I do not believe my relationship with God would be as strong as it is now.

I say all that to say this, I urge everyone when they are going through a negative situation to write out all the positive things/people that are still around you, or the positives that come from a negative situation. I also suggest you write down verses that bring you strength. In my circumstance, I did not see the positive right away, but now that I do I am so grateful for letting go and giving it all to God.

I would not have all the blessings I do right now if I would have stuck with my path instead of God’s a year ago, and that is a scary thought to me!

“He heals the brokenhearted, and binds up their wounds.”(Psalm 147:3)

Remember to be grateful in all circumstances, because even if you can’t see the positives, God can and I would much rather rely on His plan than my own! God’s blessings for us will be better then we can imagine if we stay faithful to Him. So be willing to trust, dive into God’s Word, and always give thanks.

About Taylor Fast:

Taylor is in school to get her Master’s of Social Work, graduating in April 2016 as well hoping to work within the field of addictions. She cannot wait to begin working in the Social Work field and see how God will use this passion to help her lead others to Him and help empower those around. She loves being involved in her home church, which includes participating on the worship team, helping with the young adults group, and going on missions trips whenever they are offered.

She is married to her Best-Friend Darrin. She is loving the new adventure of marriage with her wonderful husband by her side that God handpicked.

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, sure and steadfast.” ~Hebrews 6:19

Guest-Writers

{Gratefulness Week} The Little Things.

October 1, 2015September 28, 2015 UYM

Written By: Alexandra Jezierski

It’s the little things. Little things that add sparkle to our everyday lives.

It’s so easy to take them for granted. My eight-year old sister exclaiming “I love you!” My dog jumping on the couch next to me. Washing dishes while singing oldies with my sisters. A family picnic at the park. Reading bedtime stories to my little brother.

Funny, now that I’m away at college eight hours from home, I can look back at all these things and realize how much I value each and every one of those moments, even though they’re so -well- everyday-ish. I flip through the memories like through the pages of a book and they bring a comforting sense of peace into my heart.

Now, I can look back at the moments that at first frustrated me and start finding beauty and humor even in what annoyed me. I can laugh when I think of our eight-hour family trips while the kids go absolute nuts from being cooped up so long. I’m amused thinking about the days I couldn’t see the floor because of my little siblings’ toys carpeting the ground. I laugh at the tears I shed doing Saxon math. (Just kidding about that last one. Saxon? The very word sends a chill down my spine. Scarred for life.)

It makes me realize that the moments I’m going through now have an element of wonder and loveliness too. When summer vacation comes, I’ll be laughing at myself panicking about school assignments and stumbling sleepily to class after pulling an all-nighter to write an essay. (Tried that once…never again. I learned my lesson.) I’ll crack jokes about shivering in class thanks to the cold weather up here that starts in September.

So why not just make the most of it right now and recognize that each minute I have is God’s gift to me? Why not just breathe, take it all in, and say “Thank-you Jesus”?

Sometimes it’s just as easy to get bogged down by the big things as the little things.

When things aren’t going as planned in your life, it can get kind of depressing. And that’s where we need to get the big picture.

Life, beauty, goodness, truth… In the grand scheme of things everything connects. When you make the most of the seemingly boring, everyday things, you’re living your life to the fullest. It’s what I’m learning in college, studying the liberal arts, right now. I’m finding out about the pursuit of Truth and how God, friends, school…life… all connect.

Being grateful is an adventure. Once you start working on becoming more conscious of the little things, you start noticing the loveliness of putting on an apron, the brightness of a sunflower out your window, the charm of a hot cup of tea. You start finding the zest of life in even the smallest of moments. Those moments are the melody to your song, the color to your masterpiece of art. And what’s a song without a tune and what’s art without the vibrancy of color? (yes, at this school we also learn metaphor…)

It’s kind of mind-boggling to think about every minute, every situation Jesus has given specially to each one of us. His love for me is more than I can measure and one little way I can think of thanking Him is to do each little thing while sending up a quick thought and a prayer to Him, offering it to Him.

Those moments… they are the music to your life. Don’t miss out. Life is honestly a million and one times better if we choose to dance to God’s melody rather than standing by like a wallflower. Just live every moment one by one as it comes your way. Live it. Breathe it. Soak it in and share it with Jesus. What better way to show God your gratefulness than choosing to live even your smallest moments with the One who loves you most.

About Alexandra:

Alexandra Jezierski is the oldest of six children, a homeschool graduate, and currently attending college at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom Academy (which has a grand total of eighty students and is located in an obscure, snowy little town called Barry’s Bay…yet somehow she still cannot think of a school she could love better). Her greatest passions are her Faith, the pro-life cause, and her family. This school year, she has been studying hard (shucks, that sounded good. But the truth comes out: she’s been pursuing her favourite hobbies: baking, dancing, acting, and writing). She is rather in love with tea, novels, pretty dresses, “The Sound of Music,” dogs, big families, moonlit walks, and stories. The list could go on but the length may require a novel…