The Choice: Fear or Faith

What to do about fear? I grew up in a household of fear, with abuse and even violence in my extended family, and at home every day. By adolescence it became a normal state of being. I chose other relationships like my childhood ones without even realizing it. Fear causes stress and stress leads to dis-ease: in mind, heart, body and spirit. Today's world is full of messages of fear in media, advertising, news, movies and music. We can hear it in everyday conversations around us and with us. Fear causes an adrenalin reaction and can be addictive, hence the love of horror movies. Ultimately fear takes joy out of life and can hasten death. I nearly died and fear was a big part. I am finding a better WAY that leads to serenity, peace, joy and fulfillment. That WAY is faith. But faith is not easy. It takes work and action. Faith is trusting in life, in ourselves, in something greater than ourselves, especially when we find we cannot handle it, alone or otherwise. It is coming to believe that life is ultimately good and there is meaning to suffering, hardship and loss. It is coming to believe that all is well and good no matter what our experience at the moment. I am coming to believe all of that. But not without faith in God. Stay tuned! Peace be with you. Dee

Why a blog?

Why have I started blogging? I was on a path of ministry including pastoral care, preaching and teaching, and exploring a call to ordained ministry, when suddenly in May 2008 many doors that had been open slammed in my face. A couple of months later, my life changed dramatically as I took over the care of my mother who nearly died. Since then my life has revolved around bringing her back to stability and coordinating her everyday care. I had to stop many of the ministry activities with which I had been involved, but over the months I have longed to return to active ministry. In June 2008, while on an intensive 10 day silent retreat, I experienced God telling me I was going to reach people where they were: in their homes, at the office, out and about. The Internet came to mind. It seemed perfect since I am disabled and often home bound. I quickly acquired a domain, but with the demands of my mother's care, I had no time to develop a website. Meanwhile, a dear friend who is now following my blog had started a blog herself and the idea started to take root in my heart. I saw my dear friend yesterday and decided to explore the idea that had been increasingly tugging at my soul. In what seemed like only a few minutes, I was blogging, to my surprise! I have lots to share and this is just the beginning. I hope this finds you well. Blessings and peace for today and always, Dee

Hello! This is Dee's Daily #1

Hello! This is Dee's Daily blog, day #1. I have been wanting to blog for some time. My life to date has been extremely challenging and also rewarding. I want to share my experiences and learnings with the world in hope that it might help others. Stay tuned!