The End of another Chapter

In the book of life, another chapter has come to an end officially. My divorce was final on Monday, just waiting for the papers now. It's been a long time coming, some folks thought it would never happen. Others felt it should have happened a long time ago. 

It's something I've wanted for quite a while, knowing that the 'relationship' was over. While we are still friends and there are no hard feelings over it, this divorce has been much better than the first one.

Some things are just not meant to be and probably never should have happened. What seemed like a good idea at the time, was quickly unfolded into a mistake that shouldn't have happened ever. 

While we started out as friends and roommates, we were never really a couple. I have a few regrets; nothing can change the past. I wish things would have been different, for my kid's sakes as well as my own. I did the best I could for them all obstacles considered. It's all good in any case. They are grown now and moving forward in their own lives and What's done is done. Time for everyone to move forward. 

I won't be looking for any new relationships. My life will be my own in the future. I will stick to the companionships of the dogs, cats and my horse. Sadly, neither marriage brought my heart much love or affection, so it's something I shall not really miss. It was never really there. I'm content with the love of my family and fur babies. 

There is a peace about it all now. My name is officially returning to my birth given name, I'm me, and not the extension of someone else anymore. No more walking on eggshells, no more compromising, no more being responsible for someone else or having to defend myself from another's accusations. 

Here's to a new chapter ~ To a new beginning ~ 

Blessed by God

Life's moving forward @ the Bright Side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Hapy Trails.

Let Go

 

You pray and you pray and you pray. You tell God all about it, ask for His help, Thank Him for the many blessings He has provided in your life. Then you wonder why your prayer hasn't been answered. How many times, do you pray for something and then feel like it's 'just not happening'. 

When you pray, do you leave it at the altar? or do you pick it back up as soon as you are done praying?

God said, "Bring your burdens to me". "Give them to me". He didn't say, "Tell me what's bothering you" as if just to listen. He said to give them to Him. Let Go.

When you give someone something, do you give it to them and still hang on to it? or do you let it go?

The hardest part about praying, is 'Letting go'. Once you pray about it, you have to leave it at the altar. Leave it in God's hands and Let Go.

People feel like they need to be in 'charge', in 'control'. People don't like change. More often than not, we stay in bad situations just because we don't like the feeling of the unknown. We don't like to change. There is comfort in consistency. There is freedom in faith.

If you want answered prayers, If you want your burdens lifted; You can't pick it back up and start worrying about it again. Have faith. You gave it to Him and He will take care of it. May not be what you expect or how you wanted it handled. But it will be the way God wants to handle it and usually it's the better choice for you. 

Sometimes, God is trying to change the direction we are moving in, trying to lead us into the path He wants us to follow. You have to let go and let God drive, if you expect to get there. 

Give your burdens to God, have faith, trust in Him and Let it Go. Stop worrying about it and focus forward. Great Blessings will follow, when you let God lead. 

Blessed by God

Life's peaceful @ the Bright Side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails.

Prayers for Charlie

Poor Charlie, almost instantly and out of nowhere, Charlie's throat swelled up and it looked like he tried to swallow a golf ball. We called the vet at 7 AM, before they even opened and within minutes, they returned my call and got him an appointment that morning. 

Turns out, he has a limp node infection. Apparently common among young puppies. He's currently on antibodies and anti-inflammatory pills. Thankfully we caught it before it became too serious and required surgery.  

He's home resting and with hope and prayers he will be better soon. 

Comments Welcome

Blessed by God

Life's full of surprises @ the Bright Side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails.

Let them Talk

Let them believe what they want to believe. For some people the truth doesn't matter. Let them talk. You will never be able to defend yourself from all of the misleading information that goes around about you. 

The right people will know the truth. 

It doesn't matter what the other people say or think. God knows the truth, God knows your heart. Stand in faith and focus forward. 

Live your life and let them talk. 

Comments Welcome

Blessed by God

Life's peaceful @ the Bright Side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails.. 

God Cares

Sylvester was eating today! I was getting really concerned. I scheduled an appointment with the vet and was told I could bring him in sooner if need be. 

Thursday, I had tried everything. Can food, dry food, cottage cheese, kitten food, yogurt.. Nothing. He had absolutely no interest in any of it. 

So, I put his harness and leash on him and took him outside. He loves to go out on his leash and explore. First thing he did was plop down and start eating the grass. So we stayed out for about 10-15 minutes and I let him graze. 

Once inside he did throw up again, but only a little bit. Less than half of the grass he ate. I took that for a good sign. On Friday he cryed at the door to go out again, so once again we went out and grazed for about 10-15 minutes. No throwing up this time. 

He showed a little interest when he heard me passing out treats, sniffed the kibble but didn't eat it. He did however, eat a small amount of the catnip. Again, no throwing up.

This morning he ate a bit more catnip, cried to go outside, and once again we went out for about 10 minutes to graze. After we came in I noticed him up on the cat tree but the dining area and heard the crunching of kibbles. When he came out of the hut, licking his lips, I knew he ate a bit of dry kibbles. 

There have been many prayers said the last few days, and I thank everyone that cared about Sylvester and prayed for him. YES, God cares about our animals. They are as we are, one of his own creations. He knows our hearts and knows when we love them like family. Even prayers for our fur babies can be heard and answered. 

Scripture tells us, that God knows the number of hairs on our heads. For Him to be so meticulous and know us in such detail, just confirms how much He cares about every little thing in this world. God wants us to love one another He also wants us to love and care for the creatures in our world. 

Miracles happen every day some big some small. We are so blessed to be loved so much that even our feelings for our pets/fur babies MATTER TO HIM. I'm sure He is just as disturbed as we are about all the abuse that is happening around the world towards the animal kingdom.

Why does God allow it? Because God gave us free will and the ability to choose if we wish to be good or evil. He will deal with the abusers and evil doers in the end when the time comes. And then, at that time, justice will prevail over all those who have mistreated everything. From the tiniest mouse to the largest elephant and everything in between. 

When you hear about or see all the evil doing going on in the world today, you have to see the gates of hell are open and it won't be long now for JUDGEMENT DAY.  Question is, which side of judgement will we be standing on. 

As humans we were charged with the job of caring for God's creatures. Love one another and do good.

 Questions/Comments

Blessed by God

Life's full of love @ the Bright side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay safe and Happy Trails.

Please pray for Sylvester

 I need prayers for Sylvester. He started throwing up last weekend. Sunday I think was the first day. He hasn't eaten anything since. He's drinking water. The first couple days he hung out under the bed, didn't socialize like usual at all. A couple days ago he's finally starting to come out and sleep on his perch for short naps, and is spending a little bit of time out with the family. He has no interest in food dry or can. Doesn't want his treats and didn't even want any catnip. No milk, cottage cheese, I even offered him the kitten's food to no avail. I took him outside on his leash today {his favorite thing to do} and he ate a bit of grass. Then he threw up about half of what he ate almost as soon as we got back inside. We have a vet appointment next Wednesday but even the vet is concerned at how long he's gone without eating. I'm concerned, but I know God loves the animals and He cares about those we love. Please say a prayer

Leave a message for Sylvester

Blessed by God

Life's a little rough right now @ the Bright Side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails.

Welcome Saffron

 Meet the newest member of the family

Sassy Saffron

She absolutely adores sleeping with Chanelle and loves to torment Charlie. The cats Cleo and Sylvester are not yet too sure of her, however they haven't rejected her either. 

Blessed by God

Life's cute @ the Bright Side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails

Forrest Frank Concert

It was a 6 month wait. I bought the tickets for my granddaughter's birthday {December 24/2025} It was myself, my daughter in law and my granddaughter {her first concert}. We love his music, but the concert experience was one to remember. 

If you get the chance to go to one, I highly recommend it. God was at the Tacoma Dome that night. The Spirit was filling the room. It was  nice to see so many worshippers together in one place, in one mind and with one goal. To glorify God. 

Visit the website Forrest Frank, to search for concert locations and dates. You can also buy the music and other merchandise there too.

The experience is so worth the cost. 

}

Blessed by God

Life is amazing @ the Bright Side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails.

Obese -180

First word in the follow up notes from my trip to the doctors yesterday, came back as 'obese'. 

Growing up, I couldn't get up to a 100 pounds until I got pregnant with my oldest daughter. I topped out at 164 pounds at delivery. Lost it all within a few weeks. 

Jeans size 6-7 depending on the style.

After my second child, my oldest son, I got down to 84 pounds. No not anorexic, no fingers down the throat, or hard-core drugs. Stress was my weight loss medium.  Jeans 5-6.

5 years later and 2 more kids, I averaged out in a size 7 and about 115 to 125 pounds. Carried it well for having 4 C sections over the course of time. Stayed pretty steady until after my divorce and the next couple of years dealing with domestic violence and multiple court issues.

Then in my 40's after a couple surgeries and other medical complications, I topped out at about 135 and the jeans went up to a size 8. I maintained the new average until in my late 50's early 60's. During the past decade the majority of my time was spent 'unhomed'. Sometimes homeless, other times living in an RV to which many folks viewed as being 'homeless'. I personally found comfort and felt quite homey in the RVs. 

A couple years ago were the hardest, living in the Expedition and down and out financially to the worst and lowest I had ever been. A year ago, January I was able to move out of the truck and into a house owned by a friend. It was a temporary arrangement, so I was still, 'boxed' up and had minimal personal items unpacked. 

Then in August of last year, I was offered the opportunity to move 'here', to the house I'm in now. Fully able to unpack and call it home. Since then, I myself have ballooned out to a 180 pounds and a size 10 jean; my cat {who now weighs in at 16 pounds} and Miss Chanelle, my chihuahua {now topping out at 11 pounds}

Without the stress in our lives, we've come to a place where there is nothing 'burning the fat'. 

Both cat and dog, were told they needed a diet from the vet at last appointment. Seems the stress kept all of us underweight. Whereas being comfortable and relaxed has affected us all as well. 

I quit smoking when I went into the temporary housing, grateful to God for the miracle and much appreciated the generosity of friends. The money saved went towards the rent. Something I haven't been late paying, not once since!! The lack of smoking, increased the appetite and the being able to relax, seems to have slowed down my thyroid. Hence, the weight.

I bought a treadmill to be able to walk regardless of the weather, the only problem is my hip, knee and ankles, don't do well over about 10 to 15 minutes of steady walking. So, I'm not getting the miles in that I need to make a difference. Degenerative disc disease and osteoporosis make 'normal' exercise routines not possible. 

I talked to my doctor who referred me to the wellness center, for weight loss. Where I could work with the doctor and dieticians. Considering the amount of medication I have to take, I wasn't really into adding another pill. LIFE CHANGES were more of what I wanted for treatment.

So, we had our first appointment, blood work and multiple tests are being run. My numbers are in the abnormal range on 3 out of 5 tests. My blood sugar and glaucous was crazy in the abnormal ranges. Diabetes, Thyroid issues, and a couple other major concerns came up. Of all the results, the one word that hit me the hardest was the first word on the paperwork OBESE. 

I looked in the mirror and - yes - I am bigger, but I didn't think I looked OBESE. Thinking to myself if this is OBESE, what do they call those folks that are really large looking.?. Then thinking about it. I am only 5' 3". So, ya, 180 could be thought of as OBESE. Something I never imagined for myself. 

I have papers to read over; a couple lists of foods that I can have and things I should avoid. What I found most interesting about the results of the appointment, was the doctor didn't mention 'calories'. And didn't want me to 'stop eating'. She wants me to eat every 2 to 3 hours, small portions, and focus on my protein intake. Making sure I'm drinking lots of water and a bit of juice as well.

She also gave me a regiment of 'chair' exercises, things I can do sitting down that won't affect my disabilities. Emphasizing that it needs to become a steady daily routine. Even if it's only 15 minutes. Consistency is what's going to make the difference. 

Many of the folks in my circle of friends and family have been passing away the last few years. I have 1 brother left of my 'core' family, and many of my circle are now gone. An ex-brother-in-law just passed a couple days ago. These folks were all 2-10 years older than myself. I'm 61 for a couple more months. I told my daughter the other day when I heard the news of her uncle that I'M FEELING OLD. 

Her response was, no mom, you're not old. They just didn't take care of themselves. Some were prone to alcohol, others to drugs and some had health issues they couldn't overcome, and depression played a part regarding the attitude of life for some of them as well. You are doing good for your age. . .  {Thank you darling} That was nice to hear. Glad I have someone in my corner encouraging me to 'keep going'. 

I live in a 55+ community and was once asked if I was old enough to live there. {Quite the compliment}. I don't dye my hair anymore and being a born blonde the gray somewhat blends with it, so I don't even look as gray as I should for being in my 60's. Now if we can overcome this OBESE situation, life could look bright for a few more years, I hope.

When I hear the word OBESE, it reminds me of one of my dad's ole stories.

Growing up, one of my dad's 'ole stories' was to tell of a family member {from back in the early 1900's, dad was born in 1919} An uncle that had to be buried in a piano case, as he was too large for a casket. He was also too heavy for the typical 6 pall bearers to carry. They had to have the assistance of a tractor if I remember the story correctly. 

What comes to your mind when you hear the word OBESE? 

If you would like to share in the comments

I'd love to hear your story

Blessed by God

Life's overweight @ the Bright Side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails.

Changing Habits

It's human nature to 'not like change'. Some struggle more than others. I grew up with my family moving frequently. Sometimes multiple times within a year. 

Change has become a way of life. If I'm not moving frequently, I'm rearranging furniture in the rooms. 

I had hoped to raise my kids in one spot, but that didn't turn out quite as planned. Unfortunately, we moved a few times. Now that they are all grown and on their own, they hardly move. The positive note is, they all know how to adapt to change. 

When it comes to relationships, we again, don't typically like change. Which is why so often people will stay in a bad relationship, rather than to venture out on their own and change the course of their lives. Consistency is comfortable, {With the exception of domestic violence}. Even then, it's hard for many to make the change.

For me, this has been a long-awaited journey to make the change from compromising relationships to my own independence. No more 'taking the blame' for someone else's short comings, mistakes and behavior. My 2nd divorce will be final towards the end of this month. While we have been separated for a few years, we were still connected in some ways. We still remain friendly towards each other; however, I have been enjoying living alone. 

Daily habits and routines are changing to my own custom schedule, without having to accommodate others. Refreshing is the only word I have to describe the atmosphere. The animals control when I wake up {5 AM} and Chanelle decides when it's bedtime at night. They are still my masters lol. I don't have to worry about disturbing anyone with my insomnia or feel like I have to tip toe around when I can't sleep. 

Cooking for ONE has been an adjustment. Rather than grab TV dinners, or snack all the time, I've managed to prepare meals from scratch for one without a ton of leftovers. I grew up eating leftovers and it's not something I do anymore. I don't like to waste food so being able to prepare just enough for dinner with nothing left over has been a process. Considering I used to cook for a mate and 5 kids, this has been a major accomplishment. No more worrying about what someone else does or doesn't like to eat as well. 

Life is good, I look forward to seeing the results of the conclusion of the conversion. 

Comments

Blessed by God

Life's looking up @ the Bright side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails.

Creative Memories

 ScrapBooking

Visit Creative memories for your scrapbooking needs.

Capturing the moments and memories. 

So much fun looking back over the years. Instead of flipping through photo albums, let your pictures tell the story on the pages of a scrap book.

Decorate by event, season or a personal favorite theme, or even a favorite color.

Make the most of your memories, create Stories your family will cherish forever. 

Have a question or comment?

Blessed by God

Life's a snapshot @ the Bright Side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails.

You are Not the BAD GUY

 Narcist people like spin the tale as if they are totally innocent and you are the one who's a 'bitch'. They don't take responsibility for their own actions, they blame 'the other guy'. Then they try to make you feel as if it was your fault because of your reaction to the situation. 

Imagine being homeless time and time again because of someone else's behavior and bad choices. Then you finally catch a break, and a friend offers you a new house with the lowest rent you could possibly pay. 

The only rule ~ DON'T SMOKE IN THE HOUSE ~.

Now imagine the person that moves in with you, smokes in the house. Sneaking around behind your back. 

Not only are they disrespecting you, but they are also disrespecting your friend and jeopardizing your ability to live there too. 

What do you do?

You kick them out! 

Let them tell everyone it's 'YOU' that's the problem. You know it's their own fault for breaking the one and only rule to the house. Don't let them cause you to get kicked out. Don't let them destroy the friendship you have with the people that helped get you into the house in the first place. 

They need to figure it out on their own. Don't expect them to stop blaming you, that will never happen. They have spent years turning everyone against you, blaming you. Causing people to dislike you, because of their lies. All When it's been their own behavior that has caused them their problems. 

Respect yourself and stand up for yourself and your principles. Don't end up homeless again because of some disrespectful fool.  If people knew the truth, they would understand. Some people don't care what the truth is, they just want to hate no matter who is at fault. 

Let the haters hate. Love yourself. 

Can you relate? 

Blessed by God

Life's beautiful @ the Bright Side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails.

July 4th 2026

 I hope everyone had a safe and happy 4th of July. 

Blessed by God

Life's full of memories @ the Bright side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails.

Scentsy

 Keep it fresh! I have dogs and cats. I don't like the smell of wet dogs and cat box odors are horrible. I;ve used Scentsy was warmers throughout my house for years. It only made sense to sign up as a consultant and earn a few bucks, since I'm always promoting the products. 

The starter kit arrived today! I have coupon codes for anyone interested in placing an order. $20 off on orders of $100 or more and other great deals available on the website.  https://melindah.scentsy.us/

.Check out what came in the kit. 

  

I've had so many compliments on my house not smelling like my animals. It's nice to walk in the door and smell something fresh. Even on rainy days, there is no wet dog odors. The fragrance is long lasting too. 

I've never used the cleaning products before so I'm excited to try out the bottle of counter cleaner. I put it in the bathroom, since it would have the strongest need for a fresh smell lol. I plan to order the laundry products and try them next. I'll let you know how that goes. 

Click the link and explore the large variety of warmers and household products available. There are so many to choose from. Something for every personality. 

Let me know if you want the coupon code! 

Have a question

Comments always welcome

Blessed by God

Life's fresh @ the Bright side of the Barn

Thanks for stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails.

Ulcers

 My apologize, I've been unable to do much on the computer this past couple weeks. I've been trying to post more often, but my health has been a challenge. 

I thought it was heartburn and I was treating it like heartburn. Only to realize that heartburn for almost a month straight, isn't usually heartburn. 

Progressively getting worse daily, I finally inquired with the medical professionals. I am now scheduled with an appointment for some tests. The suspected culprit - ulcers. Possibly infection. 

Step One, change the diet! I used to easily drink coffee all day. I had reduced my intake to a couple small pots in the morning (about 5 cups). To now I'm lucky to get 2 cups in the morning. I've made iced coffee so I can have 1 glass later in the day. Reducing the caffeine has proven helpful, however, it's reduced my ambitions. 

The lag in energy has also been compounded by the pain and attributed symptoms of the 'ulcer' suspicions. The fever was the major pivoting point to determine; it wasn't just heartburn.

Step Two has been the changes in types of food eaten and the amount of eating in a day. It was getting to where every time I would eat, I would double up in pain and bloat to the point of feeling like my guts would explode! The fever was alarming, again the pivoting point to look into other possibilities.

Step Three has been to 'stop' taking my medications for a few days. The possibility that after being on so many prescriptions for so long, may have contributed to the irritation in the gut system. I still take the most important of the pills and have only cut out the multitude of 'extras'. Making pain more noticeable and thus making it harder to move around and function. 

Step Four will be the actual doctor's appointment to go through the tests. Apparently, I'm due for some cancer screening as well, so we'll hope it's 'just' ulcers and not anything more serious. Even though ulcers themselves can become serious. 

There's been a fair amount of stress lately, which I contribute to the overall cause of things. The divorce will be final late July, and I will be completely reliant on my own resources. Past experience has taught me that they change after the finalization of the divorce and all the 'I'll still help you' promises become extinct. 

So, help, is not to be expected. I'm available for Notarizing anywhere in Washington. I love to drive so traveling around the state is an open opportunity. Being self-employed my schedule is pretty flexible and I'm able to work with your needs, not just within the 9 to 5 zone. Weekends and evenings are available. 

I've added more jobs to my monthly schedule; I no longer work with the compliance inspections company. So, I've signed up for more merchandising and mystery shopping to replace the income there.

I have also found some new resources to earn extra pennies. I love Avon and have been selling it off and on for over 40 years. I recently found the Creative Memories for scrapbooking supplies and love the products. Wax warmers have kept my house not smelling like wet dogs or cat boxes for years, so Scentsy was worth hooking up with. Look to the links on the right for Avon, Creative Memories, and Scentsy shops. All purchases contribute to the ability for me to pay the bills.

I do have discounts and coupons available, if you order through my email directly. 

I'm hoping this health issue will soon be brought under control, so I can go back to being more active. Summer is finally here and the dogs and I are looking forward to some adventures and new explorations. I would like to get more riding in with my horse this year as well. She's getting older and I'm not sure how many more years of riding we'll have together. Recently diagnosed with Cushing's, I understand she could start experiencing some issues of her own. Her medication is about $100 a month which is another reason I had to find more sources of income to compensate. 

On the upside of life, I became a great grama again earlier this month. That makes 4 great grand babies now. They grow up so fast! Not so long ago my grandbabies were little, it's so amazing to see them grow up into such amazing adults. I never imagined my family getting so big! 4 kids, 9 grandkids and now 4 great grandkids... Such a blessing to have lived to meet them all and enjoy being a part of their lives. 

I hope to be able to post more often going forward. I've been deeply involved in some wonderful Bible studies; I've added some recommendations in a list that will grow as we go along. The links to purchase are available on the right over there. If you have done any of them, I would love to hear your feedback. 

You can click here to comment. 

I hope everyone is having a wonderful summer and we'll chat again soon. 

Blessed by God

Life's beautiful @ the Bright Side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails.

Summer has Arrived!!

The temperature has been fluctuating. Some days hitting near 90, other days in the mid 60 's. It's officially summer, so hopefully the days will stay warmer, and not have such drastic changes.

I think that's why we get those spring/summer colds. We get so hot one day and then chilled the next. I wouldn't mind a little rain at least once a week. I love the smell of a good summer rain. The grass could use it for sure. 

I'm looking forward to a couple trips to the ocean. There are some lighthouses I hope to go see. I was surprised when my son sent me a picture of a lighthouse they found on their vacation. In the middle of the state, no less. I believe it was along the Columbia River. 

It was nice to be thought of, they know how much I enjoy lighthouses. I'll have to share some of the photos of my previous visits to the few I have explored on our coastline. 

I'm not really into camping but a vacation with a hotel, would do me fine. We'll see what happens. I need to get an oil change on the Jeep already. I drive a lot! Take it to the car wash and then I should be ready for a road trip! 

I finally sold the car, I pick up the check from the dealership tomorrow. A bit of a relief, I really dislike the process of selling vehicles, and all the different types of inquiry's. It's done, prayers answered again. Thank you Lord. 

What are your summer plans? Doing anything special or exciting? 

Comment here

Blessed by God

Life's relaxing @ the Bright Side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe & Happy Trails.

Better than Revenge

Romans 12:19 

Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

 I've never been one to seek revenge on my 'enemies'. I've become content knowing that God has His own way of dealing with people that have hurt or caused pain to His people. 

There are so many scriptures that document what God has done to the enemies of His chosen people. Scriptures that speak of how God will protect those that are diligently following His will. God knows all and sees all. 

 I have found that things happen to my foes, that I had nothing to do with. I actually feel sorry for some of them with what happens in their lives. Whether it was to avenge me or someone else, doesn't matter. Sometimes, it feels like they got what they deserved.

 The scriptures warn of those that will throw fiery darts and do all they can to destroy others. Being raised to 'turn the other cheek' was never easy. It was adapted to the attitude of focus forward. Let them gossip and try to tear you down. You don't have to wish them ill will, you don't even have to think about them. 

 When you stay focused on moving forward in your relationship with God, your enemies will fall to the wayside behind you. Sometimes right away, other times, it's a few years later. God gives them a chance to redeem themselves; as He wants everyone to make it to Heaven. 

 God's forgiveness is available to everyone, even the enemy. Give them to God and worry about your own salvation. Yes, people can be painful. Rest assured, they will feel the wrath of God which is far greater than any revenge you could think of for yourself. They can also change and find God in their own lives. Which is what we should wish for everyone. 

 One such example in my life.

~ is this certain little twit. She has caused myself and my children much grief. She is vulgar, disrespectful and outright vicious towards our family for many years. After we had done a lot to help her out in her teen years. She's very spoiled and gets very mean when she isn't getting her way or what she wants. 

 Her son has no respect for her and 'faked' going to work for a few weeks before he was caught. She would drive him to and back, fix his meals, wash his clothes... and he disregarded her completely and blew off a really good job. 

More recently her husband had a severe stroke and became a great burden to her. Shortly after her step dad passed away and her mother's Alzheimer's has become a heavy burden as well.  

That's a lot of grief for one person to handle in just a year. 

 We've never done anything to her and didn't wish anything on her. We just cut her out of our lives and focused forward. Paying no attention to her ongoing hatred. She has brought all her misery onto herself because of how she has treated other people over the years. Not just our family but many other folks as well. 

They say payback is a bitch, I would have to agree. 

Karma never forgets. 

I believe karma comes from God. 

Blessed by God

Life's peaceful @ the Bright side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay safe and Happy Trails.

We will call it a Debate, rather than an Argument.

I have a cousin, I believe she was Lutheran? not completely sure. While visiting one time, the subject of 'being perfect' came up. 

Her thoughts were that it was impossible to be perfect in this life as a human being. 

My thoughts were the scripture refers to 'being perfect' 91 times in the Bible, God expects us to become 'perfect'. 

The question can be asked ~ What is perfect?

Much like the question of ~ What is normal? We tend to think it's a matter of interpretation, rather than a standard. 

The Bible makes it clear, what God expects as 'perfect'. Jesus makes reference several times and gives parables and examples as to what He means. 

So, let's look at the Scriptures. . . . . 

Matthew 5:48 {as quoted in the picture}

Romans 12:2 - And be not conformed to this world but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.

Colossians 1:28 - Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 4:13 - Til we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. 

Colossians 4:12 - Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, salute you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete i all the will of God. 

Hebrew 13:21 - Make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ; in whom be glory forever and ever, Amen.

I could go on but I think there is enough here to be able to understand 'what perfection is'. To  be a perfect person, is to do the will of God and walk in the ways God expects us to walk, do the things God expects us to do...

I believe we can obtain 'perfection'  in this human form. 

Do you?

Blessed by God

Life can be perfect @ the Bright side of the Barn

Thanks for Stopping by

Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Trails.