tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63538853383077572822024-03-05T20:37:47.461-05:00The Nomad of InspirationAn attempt to honestly filter the world through the lens of a wanderercoconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.comBlogger43125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-64775176997192339052011-02-26T11:32:00.000-05:002011-02-26T11:32:49.580-05:00SPAMNo...I'm not talking about the below-par, mystery food.<br />
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I'm referring to that stuff - that <i><b>UNwanted</b></i> stuff - that we get in our email inboxes nearly every day of our lives.<br />
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I realized, this morning, that I've done it to myself. When I switched from my maiden-name email to my married-name email (a practical decision after my marriage, 3 years ago), I opted to retain the old as a "filter" for spam. Why? Because, I LOVE surveys and freebies. However, they usually come with the "catch" of having to provide an initial email for "login." For a while I didn't mind maintaining two emails - one for personal use, the other for fringe interest; but, I think I'm changing my mind. <br />
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In the end, some of the websites that I frequent have convinced me to use my primary address as my point of contact or login. Hence, I now get "spam" from those sites (which is relative, depending on the day and my level of interest in the content) everyday. So, instead of truly filtering out the bad from the good, I simply have TWO accounts that appear to be brimming with news from friends or appreciated organizations. Yet, much to my chagrin, 90% always turns out to be a series of updates, newsletters, and coupons for which I have no interest.<br />
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I don't know if I should quit my free-on-the-web addiction or simply admit defeat and quit the foolishness of two poorly organized email boxes?! But I am convinced of one thing: either way, SPAM is pointless! Whether it's made of meat or trite bits of information, it has no long-term nutritional value for my head or my body. Of this I am certain!coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-75939769258683745642011-02-22T15:26:00.000-05:002011-02-22T15:26:17.567-05:00pisteuō<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Don't be afraid, just keep trusting... </i></b></span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Mark 5:36</i></b></span></div><b><i><br />
</i></b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">In the fifth chapter of the Gospel of Mark, we read the story of a man who's daughter is near death. Desperate for a miracle, this man presents himself at the feet of Yeshua (Jesus) and begs him to come to his home and heal the girl. On the way to the home, friends meet Yeshua and the father, informing them that the girl has died. However, instead of changing his course of direction - becoming disillusioned or surprised - Yeshua calmly responds by saying: "Don't be afraid, just keep trusting." </span><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I've read this story many times, and because I know how it ends, I've always skipped over that quote. Certainly, it was easy to count it as an obvious, insignificant statement, because like the LORD, I've always shared faith for what's about to happen (because I've read it!). However, last night, for the first time, I read this quote through the lens of the father. Wow! That changed things. Suddenly I wondered: "What kind of a response is that?! My daughter just died? Can you fix that? Do you care? How am I supposed to keep trusting, when as far as I am concerned, I've just lost someone that is most precious to me?!"</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">How many of you have experienced <b><i>that moment </i></b>with the LORD, before? I certainly have! It's a moment of utter confusion, disappointment, faith-testing, and brokeness: a moment in which everything you <i><b>think</b></i> you understand about G-d turns upside-down. And you're left with a knot in your stomach and a head-tilted expression, not unlike that of the RCA dog. </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This has actually occurred to me MULTIPLE TIMES, in my life, and I never seem to be prepared for it. Whether it's a relationship, a vision, a task, or a situation, I experience utter despair at the shocking reality of <u>unexpected death</u>. And in that moment, Yeshua speaks (and has spoken) the same phrase to me: keep trusting. And my response is not unlike the father. </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Why is this?</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Because I am only human. My thinking and my perspective are limited. I am bound by the structure of life and death, success and failure, that I see all around me on a daily basis. But G-d...</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">He sees and knows on an ETERNAL LEVEL: a level that allows Him to understand that LIFE and DEATH are terms HE instigated. According to my belief (supported in scripture), G-d ALONE has the power to grant or take life. Hence, when He is <i><b>informed</b></i> that there has been a death, versus being <b><i>consulted</i></b>, He is not shaken. For He knows that only He has the final word on that subject.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Let's resume our reading of the story and find out what happens once our LORD arrives at the home of the family with the "dead" daughter:</div><br />
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i><b><span class="versetext" id="mr5-38" style="display: inline;">When they came to the synagogue official's house, he found a great commotion, with people weeping and wailing loudly. </span><span class="versetext" id="mr5-39" style="display: inline;"><span class="versenum"></span>On entering, he said to them, "Why all this commotion and weeping? The child isn't dead, she's just asleep!" </span><span class="versetext" id="mr5-40" style="display: inline;"><span class="versenum"></span>And they jeered at him. But he put them all outside, took the child's father and mother and those with him, and went in where the child was. </span><span class="versetext" id="mr5-41" style="display: inline;"><span class="versenum"></span>Taking her by the hand, he said to her, "Talita, kumi!" (which means, "Little girl, I say to you, get up!"). </span><span class="versetext" id="mr5-42" style="display: inline;"><span class="versenum"></span>At once the girl got up and began walking around; she was twelve years old. Everybody was utterly amazed. </span></b></i></div><br />
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<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">So Yeshua (Jesus) considered the girl as simply "sleeping" and raised her to wholeness! He knew, all along, that He would be able to restore her life, from the snares of death, because He understood and walked in the authority given Him by His Father in Heaven.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This LORD is the SAME LORD that we serve today and He is STILL in the business of restoration: maintaining His ability to have the "final word" on whether something is dead or not.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">So, be encouraged, today. The LORD knows you. He knows your heart and your mind. He knows your desires and intentions. He knows your fears and your delights and He revels in helping you become THE BEST you can be, as you serve Him on the earth. He is aware of your successes and your failures and though He may allow things to "sleep" for a time, He Alone has the ability to declare them DEAD or ALIVE. So, remember his words - <b><i>just keep trusting</i></b> - and their meaning, and allow Him to strengthen you as you wait for His arrival at the door of your disappointment. This is what He intends your heart to hear:</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i><b>Do not allow your limited understanding to distract you from the One who is control of your destiny. I AM EVERYTHING you need and I ALONE hold the key to the LIFE or DEATH in your situation. Place your hope in ME and I will assess the final outcome. Until that time, do not be afraid: JUST KEEP TRUSTING and I will arrive at JUST THE RIGHT TIME to lift your "sleeping" situation to its wholeness.</b></i></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><b style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i> </i></b>coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-68574236351425849522011-02-15T18:39:00.000-05:002011-02-15T18:39:39.281-05:00To a teeI'm reading through the bible in a year, this year. So far, it has been an intriguing approach to my personal study, as I've always followed my own Spirit-led inclinations, or taken cues from the traditional, weekly Torah portions. Hence, though I've read the Bible through many times, it's never been intentional and time-bound.<br />
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Today marked the completion of Exodus, for the Old Testament reading and I found myself thrilled with its simple ending. After nearly 80 days of instruction, on Mt. Sinai, Moses returns to the people (descending from the mountain) and recounts the instruction he's directly received from the MOST HIGH G-D. Though they began with sin and a misunderstanding of HOW to obey the orders, the final result is a people ready and "willing" (according to scripture) to help accomodate obedience to ADONAI and construct a meeting place with Him - The Tabernacle. <br />
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I love how specific the LORD is, with His blueprints and how ready Moses and his main craftsman assistance, Betzalel and Aholiab, are to do EXACTLY what ADONAI has instructed. So, though the final three chapters are a direct repeat of G-d's instruction, they mark the specificity of obedience to the PLAN that these men took in construction of G-D's TABERNACLE. They understood the simple key to relationship with G-d: we take OUR cue FROM HIM. It's not - and never will be - about US. It's ALL ABOUT HIM! Because of their desire to please and pleasure HIM FIRST, they are successful in their attempts and efforts to construct this detailed meeting place and are satisfied and fulfilled, once it's completed.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>LORD, teach us how to remain simple, in our thinking, as we serve you, remembering that if we merely follow YOUR blueprint, we can NEVER be put to shame.</i></b></div>coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-80664174932911594992010-05-24T15:44:00.000-04:002010-05-24T15:44:39.057-04:00Holding FastYesterday, at church, we talked about our current status, within our lives, as worshippers. Spanning the spectrum of valleys to mountain tops, everyone seemed to be at a different point, along the current leg of their life's journey.<br />
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My husband and I are once again back in the valley, ourselves, experiencing challenges that do not feel pleasant, encountering situations that do not have obvious answers. However, we <i>have</i> been on the mountaintop, before, so we know that its peaks lie ahead. <br />
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Life is a series of hills, that gradually seem to become less intimidating the longer we walk with our Heavenly Father. And yet, each circumstance is different, requiring a new measure of faith and trust, on our part.<br />
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As I pondered my worship, yesterday, in light of my current realities, I got a picture of a mountain climber, in my head. I was reminded that though the mountain may appear large and looming, the mountain climber takes one stretch of footing at a time, always <i>aiming</i> for the goal, but never losing sight of the current choice, that leads to the top. Every step is important, each response necessary, if the challenge shall succeed. And, at every juncture, regardless of height, the climber has the security of one thing: his rope. This rope is the anchor, the connection to the peak, the reminder that an end IS in sight. This rope is our faith. When we choose to reach out, for the Hand of our Father, and trust Him for each leg of our journey, we are connected to His anchor, His rope that leads us up and out of our crisis. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh8PcE-vB3jX6obLrlHBVCI7QR6CkMGpD78mXfyUI5qtBczKBaKoa3ueoJArd-NczlVSzIp9ulyJPAjn2dqUfb9FQuTft_bMa2s-i3qQgi-Dky4NS6gwpCRNaQ7YfvQDTVhuJOjbr42Hwn/s1600/_reaching.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh8PcE-vB3jX6obLrlHBVCI7QR6CkMGpD78mXfyUI5qtBczKBaKoa3ueoJArd-NczlVSzIp9ulyJPAjn2dqUfb9FQuTft_bMa2s-i3qQgi-Dky4NS6gwpCRNaQ7YfvQDTVhuJOjbr42Hwn/s400/_reaching.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>So, reach up, today, dear climber and hold fast. Remember that your Father knows you and trusts you with your current mountain. Yes, He has the power to move it, but knows best and understands that you need the exercise of climbing OVER it to continue your journey. Reach out for His Rope, for the Faith and Trust needed. Climb and succeed. <br />
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<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><b><i>Worship Me, for only this great gift can set you free from the killing love of self</i></b></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><b><i>and prick your fear with valiant courage: to fly in hope through moments of despair.</i></b></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><b><i>Worship will remind you that no man knows completeness in himself.</i></b></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><b><i>Worship will teach you to speak your name, when you've forgotten who you are.</i></b></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><b><i>Worship is duty and privilege, debt and grand inheritance at once.</i></b></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><b><i>Worship, therefore, at those midnights when the stars hide.</i></b></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><b><i>Worship in the storms till love makes thunder whimper and grow quiet, and listen to your whimpered hymns.</i></b></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><b><i>Worship and be free...</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">- Calvin Miller (excerpt from </span><u style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Requiem for Love</u><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">)</span></div>coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-86666568385871219912010-05-22T10:39:00.000-04:002010-05-22T10:39:28.015-04:00Through His Lens...<div style="text-align: center;">"God is not concerned about our plans; He doesn’t ask, “Do you want to go through this loss of a loved one, this difficulty, or this defeat?” No, He allows these things for <b>His own purpose</b>. The things we are going through are either making us sweeter, better, and nobler men and women, or they are making us more critical and fault-finding, and more insistent on our own way. The things that happen either make us evil, or they make us more saintly, <i><b>depending entirely on our relationship with God and its level of intimacy</b></i>."<br />
- Oswald Chambers</div><b><b> <br />
</b></b>I have been thinking, quite a bit, in recent weeks, about the eternal value of all things. It appears a lofty concept, but it is simpler than it seems. My aim has been to shift my perspective, of life and circumstance, to that of Heaven and Eternity. It is a moment to moment, day by day adventure.<br />
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Hebrews 12:2 speaks of "...Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross..." From our reading and research of historic forms of Roman torture, we know that the cross was anything but a source of joy, for its victim. However, this scripture alludes to a contrasting opinion, on the part of our Savior.<br />
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What is it that allowed Jesus the luxury of joy, in the midst of pain? Was it insanity or misunderstanding? No! It was perspective. When Jesus looked on the cross, He did not see it merely "before Him", as the author of Hebrews mentions. Rather, He pulled back and viewed in on the time-line of redemption. By placing uninhibited trust, in His Father, He was able to grasp that His moment of sorrow and suffering WOULD BE but a moment, in Eternity. And it would be worth the sacrifice, for it would allow the salvation of the world. Gaining this understanding, Jesus <i><b>was</b></i> able to endure the cross, with joy, because He saw its purpose: it held value in Eternity...<br />
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While I do not condone the opinion that EVERY CHALLENGE in our lives is ESTABLISHED by God - as was our Lord's death, on the cross - I DO believe that our Sovereign Father ALLOWS challenges to help shape us. Able to see beyond the challenge, to the character it builds, our Heavenly Father is more than happy to allow discomfort that will give us strength for the journey, and opportunity to share His view of the world. Our REAL challenge is what we do in the midst of our crisis. Great or small, are we more focused in using our energy to complain and stumble through our circumstance, OR are we open to getting a perspective shift? If we are willing, God will help us pull back, as Jesus did, and see the bigger picture. In light of Eternity and the greatness of redemption, all other suffering falls short.<br />
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For those that are currently experiencing life's greatest sorrows, this sounds insensitive and blunt. It sounds like a Sunday-school answer: the right one, but easier said than done. And, on many levels, that is true. But, I have felt the pain of loss, I have lived countless moments of regret, I have experience lack of control, and I have known hopelessness. And IN ALL THINGS, my God HAS been faithful. IN ALL THINGS, my God HAS seen me through. IN ALL THINGS, my God HAS strengthened my mind, equipped my hands, and motivated my heart. IN ALL THINGS, my God, Who lives inside Eternal Perspective HAS been with me, knowing the entire time, what benefit the challenges would bring. <br />
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These words and concepts are true because they HAVE been tested and tried. Read your Word and recount all of those who endured hardships, exponentially greater than most of our own. They too came out on the other side and are Eternal Pillars of Righteousness, a "cloud of witnesses" (Hebrews 12:1) for us. So, we are not alone. We have the whispers of the saints sharing their testimony with us. Hear their cries:<br />
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<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i>It's worth it...</i></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"> <i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i>It's worth the moment of suffering for an eternity of joy...</i></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i>It's worth the pain, the struggle, the confusion, the frustration...</i></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i>It's worth becoming closer to Him, so that on "the other side" we might be more like Him...</i></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i>It's worth it, now that we are In Eternity... </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
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</i></div>Are you willing to let go and pull back? I know I want to...<br />
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<i><b>Father, load me in your great slingshot and let me borrow your glasses...</b></i>coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-91764114197251930232010-04-27T17:48:00.004-04:002010-04-27T18:03:55.299-04:00The GREAT LIGHT that dispels darkness...<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">In Psalm 27, David begins with a statement of testimony: a declaration of WHO he KNOWS GOD TO BE and WHO GOD HAS FAITHFULLY BEEN.<br /></span><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center; font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">ADONAI is my light and salvation; whom do I need to fear; </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">ADONAI is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?</span><br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">A closer examination of the Hebrew words, in this passage, give an understanding of something far great than we are able to obtain, in English. Loosely re-translated, it may read something like this:</span><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center; font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">The Most Holy God becomes light, for me: opening space to bring deliverance and liberty from the tight, restricting things in my life. Therefore, I have no reason to be of afraid of anything! He will illuminate and open every dark place, for me. God Almighty is my safe refuge of defense, so why should I tremble before anyone but Him?!</span><br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">What an incredible statement of faith! What an incredible knowledge of God!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">If David wrote no more than this opening verse, it would be a fabulous foundation, to challenge our faith and walk, with God. To have already answered the questions that these statements hush is to understand (with all one's being!) a core attribute of God. If we could but grasp the simply stated truths of these words, we may avoid time wasted on worry, doubt, fear, and the bad choices that come from such broken patterns of thinking. We may have opportunity to live lives of victory, freedom, joy, and abundance, because we know that God is truly in control.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Teach us, Lord!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Speak...Your servants are listening...</span></span>coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-4395175418497667522010-03-30T22:52:00.003-04:002010-03-30T23:04:27.755-04:00Why is this night different from all other nights?<span style="font-family: arial;">Last night, I observed my third Passover Seder in Florida. For a third, consecutive year, I found myself leading family, and friends, through this annual tradition of liturgy: observing my favorite Feast of the LORD, acknowledging and appreciating His wonderful redemption story.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Though it is traditionally a man who leads this service, I have taken the role as "head," because in my circle, I have more exposure to these practices and observances, than others. This reality has been received, with great humility and initial insecurity. After all, with only 14 years of knowledge, how could I possibly know enough to teach (let alone lead) such a rich moment, in our calendar year?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">And yet, year after year, G-d has proven to be faithful to be the Instructor: the true LEADER of the evening. He has taught me new layers of truth and insight, in my preparation, enriching what I already value about my faith. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">The journey has been a delightful one, and as new ideas are already being birthed for the future, I look ahead with great anticipation. I love knowing that "it has only begun."</span><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; font-family: georgia;">Blessed are You, Lord our God, Master of the universe,</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; font-family: georgia;">who has kept us alive and sustained us and enabled us</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; font-family: georgia;">to reach this time.</span><br /></div>coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-73999273546621477762010-03-18T11:46:00.006-04:002010-03-18T11:56:48.026-04:00Reminisce<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH0uvRF5uvvEWfrYJDKzI7LnSpso0Z6v7zfmnx_uZe-THA6eNOrkFoJEEGiLP2s6E4LV1B9wgzm-4yF5mJc4NVKG1i6kUVniLfch58OQ1LTCxuCcctUMfMT9h9NQnVj11fgRGWrWCvNQQH/s1600-h/Video+Snapshot+of+Stevie+Gonzalez.jpeg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 219px; height: 183px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH0uvRF5uvvEWfrYJDKzI7LnSpso0Z6v7zfmnx_uZe-THA6eNOrkFoJEEGiLP2s6E4LV1B9wgzm-4yF5mJc4NVKG1i6kUVniLfch58OQ1LTCxuCcctUMfMT9h9NQnVj11fgRGWrWCvNQQH/s320/Video+Snapshot+of+Stevie+Gonzalez.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450002653293293714" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5DwU8zuuGoEJKXKLFpnaKeL2D9dax2L1_OZEy3R8DPBQzGOHk43kF9MZ9xJ1o3ez2qJD4acl0yuBX5rSbYq89vJ6o6oBvkTxnRSa7FsCQrpvj5a2hvTf-GCKyKonA0VLDo-x2Nfi60wBh/s1600-h/IMG_4038.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 192px; height: 287px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5DwU8zuuGoEJKXKLFpnaKeL2D9dax2L1_OZEy3R8DPBQzGOHk43kF9MZ9xJ1o3ez2qJD4acl0yuBX5rSbYq89vJ6o6oBvkTxnRSa7FsCQrpvj5a2hvTf-GCKyKonA0VLDo-x2Nfi60wBh/s320/IMG_4038.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450002947234167298" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu-vEQWg2NYGznguJhQq_9A0oy9iFgV9KRIsK3WCRhpxp76Nfn6HrJ-h8EL71gKdEph7PG3oQPoEkFnycrXzCovDD87ype7I4UKMmmfRMEDFDetR7OrUZjqIIldSCSRUj6j_BbsO1geqdc/s1600-h/ac.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 280px; height: 175px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu-vEQWg2NYGznguJhQq_9A0oy9iFgV9KRIsK3WCRhpxp76Nfn6HrJ-h8EL71gKdEph7PG3oQPoEkFnycrXzCovDD87ype7I4UKMmmfRMEDFDetR7OrUZjqIIldSCSRUj6j_BbsO1geqdc/s320/ac.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450002519792945522" border="0" /></a><br />I am FINALLY clearing my voice mail archives, on my cellphone. Due to beloved messages, from my husband, prior to our marriage, I have not had space on my voice mail, for nearly a year! This has become a point of frustration for those that are unable to leave messages, except by text.<br /><br />Friends and family have told me, repeatedly, to transfer the sound clips to a file, on my computer. And, now, I've done it. What fun to go back and recall all of the wonderful moments and feelings associated with falling in love. I still pinch myself, knowing that I'm married to my best friend, but there's something about reliving the "early moments" that make my love feel rejuvenated and refreshed. I think TRUE LOVE is the most amazing miracle God created. It is renewed, daily, and takes on greater strength and meaning, with every year.<br /><br />I am blessed beyond measure!coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-92181833009214029182010-02-22T22:55:00.001-05:002010-02-22T22:55:42.234-05:00Oh!<dl style="box-sizing:border-box;-moz-box-sizing:border-box;width:426px;background:#FFF;border:solid 1px #B1B1B1;font:11px Tahoma,sans-serif;color:#373737;overflow:hidden"><dt style="padding:0;overflow:hidden; height:344px"><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/JoC1ec-lYps&feature=youtube_gdata&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/JoC1ec-lYps&feature=youtube_gdata&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></dt><dd style="padding:4px 6px 5px 8px;margin:0;background-image:url('http://www.tsrocks.com/images/youtube.bottom.gif');background-repeat: repeat-x;font:11px Tahoma;line-height:12px!important;text-align:left;text-transform:none;">Read <h1 style="display:inline;margin:0;padding-right:3px; font:bold 11px Tahoma;line-height:12px!important;text-align:left;text-transform:none;"><a href="http://www.tsrocks.com/k/kim_walker_texts/how_he_loves.html" style="text-decoration:none;color:#373737;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold!important;border:none;background:none;">How He Loves Lyrics</a></h1> here.</dd></dl>coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-3394797638939452032010-02-21T14:36:00.003-05:002010-02-21T14:41:48.359-05:00How He Loves...Wow...<br /><br />After years of struggling to figure out the root of many of my issues, I believe that the answer came today, in worship. The words to the song, below, were a point of recognition for me:<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">He is jealous for me, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Loves like a hurricane, I am a tree, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Bending beneath the weight of his wind and mercy. </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">When all of a sudden, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">And I realize just how beautiful You are, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">And how great Your affections are for me. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">And oh, how He loves us so, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Oh how He loves us, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">How He loves us all </span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Yeah, He loves us, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Oh! how He loves us, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Oh! how He loves us, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Oh! how He loves. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">We are His portion and He is our prize, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">If grace is an ocean, we’re all sinking. </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">And Heaven meets earth like an unforeseen kiss, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">And my heart turns violently inside of my chest, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">I don’t have time to maintain these regrets, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">When I think about, the way…</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: trebuchet ms;">by David Crowder</span></span> <br /><br />I don't accept the LOVE OF GOD, like I should. I feel so unworthy. And, I am. But that doesn't stop Him from loving. So, I am left with the choice to either ignore His Love and get by, on my own, which contradicts all that I believe, or I can learn to just RECEIVE, and in reception of God's Pure Love, I may find wholeness, healing, and security...those things which I constantly struggle to maintain. Why? Because I keep trying to find them outside of Perfect Love.<br /><br />God, I want you and I need you, desperately. Interrupt my ignorance and pour out your Love. Bathe me, cleanse me, heal me, surprise me. Show me Your Love, once more. I am ready to KNOW IT!!!coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-36948612314542169652010-02-20T20:03:00.000-05:002010-02-20T20:04:06.287-05:00Like breathing?A - Author’s<br />R - Revealed<br />T - Truth<br /><br />I am once again at a crossroads: assessing - nay, trying to identify - the barriers I have created, that are currently limiting my ability to produce. I thought of the above acronym, this evening, and I believe that it revealed part of my dilemma. I love art: its experience and its making. However, my love is coupled with FEAR and AWE that sober my joy of unabashed creation. I DO understand the weight of the pieces I make. They are supposed to reflect Him. All that I am is supposed to reflect Him. Afterall, He WAS and IS and Was before ALL that is now. So, the best I can ever do is echo His expression, in my own attempts. And yet, even in that freedom to make something “unoriginal,” I still honor the reality that if my work DOES NOT echo Him, I have become futile. And, I want my life to matter. I do not want to waste my energies on something that might not have worth.<br /><br />Hence, as is often the case, I have given so much value to my understanding that I am limited within my mind - paused at the crux of creativity. But maybe, not. If I can begin to surrender my understanding of art’s responsibility, within my mind, I may find the ability to move again.<br /><br />Great Author, Creator of all and giver of art, teach me how to make what You desire and calm my heart and mind when they waste time worrying about release. Show me how to shape, once more...coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-91653536247834758812010-02-08T16:34:00.003-05:002010-02-09T13:31:47.351-05:00To Be or Not to be...AVAILABLE: able to be used or obtained; at someone's disposal; free to do something<br /><br />Does this define my life before The One To Whom I Cling?<br /><br />We live in a world that is time-bound. And greater injustice is added to this reality, for those of us that live in the fast-paced, money-driven, Western world. We are constantly aware of our time (or lack thereof) and finding new ways to maximize the small amount of time we never seem to have. We strategize our meetings, inviting multiple departments to the same table that we may increase productivity over a shorter span of time. We purchase and invest energy in technology, designed to keep EVERYTHING in one place, in order that we can "do away" with the need for multiple digital outlets. We write texts, instead of emails and choose abbreviations, within those texts, instead of full sentences, so that we can communicate as succinctly as possible. We purchase pre-packed meals so that all items are combined on one plate, with limited preparation...and the list goes on. But the irony remains: we never seem to find enough time. <br /><br />I have to ask myself the question: if I never seem to find enough time, what am I wasting time doing that prevents me from investing in those things I truly need?<br /><br />My answer? Not making myself accessible to God. That is the key issue that will unlock having enough time to do other things. I am more aware than ever that my number one problem has been NOT making ENOUGH time for God. <br /><br />God: our Father, our Friend, and King of the Universe. He is not bound by time, nor does He feel limited by it. Time is something He invented, so it is not a threat to Him. But it does pose a threat to my relationship, <span style="font-style: italic;">with Him</span>, when I try to make Him fit within my time-bound thinking (and my "all-important" schedule). If I truly desire to be known by Him, and to be used by Him, I cannot decide when and how that will happen. (It is enough that He WANTS to use me!) If God chooses to invest Himself IN and THROUGH me, I must begin to live a life, marked by AVAILABILITY. I must stop saying that He can have "x" amount of minutes, in my day, or that He may take liberty to show His power at "such and such" a time, in my life or my church service. Rather, I must treat Him with <span style="font-style: italic;">at least</span> the same respect I treat those with whom I have earthly relationship.<br /><br />To claim desire for intimacy and companionship with my spouse or family and then avoid their presence or interrupt their conversation - every time they begin sharing their heart with me - would be rude and ridiculous. After a while, they would stop believing my intention to know them. My actions would speak louder than my words. <br /><br />So, how is it any different, in my relationship with TOTWIC? If I say I want to KNOW HIM, I must stop and listen to Him, as He shares WHO HE IS. If I say I want TO BE USED by Him, I must stop my own agenda and focus on His. If I profess interest in being AVAILABLE, I have to actually BE AVAILABLE. And, since I serve a God NOT BOUND by the time which limits me, I have to learn that I WILL BE INTERRUPTED. I will feel as though my schedule was put "on hold", in order to accomplish His purposes. But, until I am willing to let go of that which is fleeting, I will never fully be able to be used. I am only one of many. There are others that can accomplish His Kingdom Work. But, I don't want to miss it. I don't want to miss an opportunity to be in service for the King of Kings.<br /><br />So, here I am, Lord. I am ready. Interrupt my life...coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-62400291451549599452010-02-07T23:59:00.003-05:002010-02-08T16:34:37.655-05:00Children of LightWe were created to be mirrors, but somewhere, along the way, we have gotten smudged and greasy. We don't always reflect the Light of our Father, because other things have gotten in the way, and His reflection cannot be truly known in and through us. We must allow ourselves to be wiped clean, by His Hand, so that our original intention can be restored.<br /><br />Father, shower your spiritual Windex, over my life, so that I may be restored to reflecting You. I want to be available, at your beckoning, not limited by the smudges of my own lack. Wash me, anew...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">For you used to be darkness; but now, united with the Lord, you are light.<br />Live like children of the light...</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ephesians 5:8</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></div>coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-35571474049942878612010-02-04T16:59:00.002-05:002010-02-04T17:03:16.310-05:00closing doorstoday was an interesting "end of an era." i closed an email and blog account i have owned, for the past 12 years. i copied and saved everyone of my writings, but i released my emails into the forgotten past. i realized that though it was time to terminate the account, it was also time to move beyond the memories it carried. sometimes our emotional and mental space is like our home storage. at some point, we have to throw things out or give them away. if we hold onto EVERYTHING FOREVER, we simply clutter our lives and prevent ourselves from being able to welcome that which is new.<br /><br />seekinghiswill<br /><br />i still am, but i've ceased making it my online identity.<br /><br />goodbye high school and college. it was nice.coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-25296333237248701252010-02-03T12:21:00.002-05:002010-02-03T12:30:35.760-05:00The Pathway to Uncovering...I'm on a great adventure.<br /><br />Well, I have been for sometime, but I got a bit sidetracked and forgot that I'd been commissioned for such a great work. <br /><br />I work for the One To Whom I Cling, uncovering things.<br /><br />Certainly, nothing is hidden from Him. Why would He require things to be uncovered? Because it's not for Him. It's for me. He knows and sees all, but sometimes, from my human perspective, those things aren't so obvious. So, He's invited me to use His tools (shovel, bucket, brushes) and do a bit of excavation. I guess I have been hired as a sort of spiritual archeologist. And, it is so interesting! There are multiple discoveries EVERYDAY! It is the best gig I've ever had. It's productive, it's inspirational, it's rewarding. I can't imagine why I had forgotten the work...I wasted time. But, the great part about this role is that OTWIC doesn't allow ANYTHING to be wasted. He redeems time and energy, so now that I'm back on the job, I'm getting enough done to make up for past absence. <br /><br />Each day, I dig, I brush away, and I chronicle what I've found. But the amazing difference between my work and an actual archeologist is that my discoveries allude to further hidden mysteries. I can actually infer what I might find next, from something I've already found. Moreover, I KNOW that I'll find the rest of the missing pieces. They haven't been eaten by the earth, like some fossils. Every single part is available, if I just keep digging. And, as I go, my discoveries bring me closer to OTWIC, because they are all linked to WHO HE IS! Isn't that incredible?! So, I not only get to find out mind-blowing new things, about life, history, and the future, but I am simultaneously growing in my relationship with my boss. He spends every moment with me, while I uncover and helps me understand what I've found.<br /><br />I think there may be more available positions. I'll check with Him and let you know. <br /><br />Honestly, you don't want to miss this opportunity. Oh, and don't worry about your skill set. No prior experience is needed. You learn, on the job...coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-48310434027961801002010-01-22T22:03:00.003-05:002010-01-22T22:10:29.885-05:00Am I French, or not?!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEing4mFuGjYLDMLSn6uRykIHnrxwvlN9k59dOxwRD8-XnebyWlUy7q0eQOcLJHmBTV_pe-rj2qGCVIb-hrWsWOT5sntiC-hSb6e0SepipOQKgP1UwXR63yKMDZrFDBCwT0RY1AQgrYvExOK/s1600-h/coppola.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 99px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEing4mFuGjYLDMLSn6uRykIHnrxwvlN9k59dOxwRD8-XnebyWlUy7q0eQOcLJHmBTV_pe-rj2qGCVIb-hrWsWOT5sntiC-hSb6e0SepipOQKgP1UwXR63yKMDZrFDBCwT0RY1AQgrYvExOK/s320/coppola.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429767327055984834" border="0" /></a><br />2007...<br /><br />Francis Coppola...<br /><br />Diamond Series...<br /><br />Claret...<br /><br />Rich, plum appearance...unbelievable clarity...vibrant and fresh, on the nose...rich and full-bodied with medium tannins...spice and cherry flavors...ridiculously long finish...a moment on the palate, forever in the memory...<br /><br />Need I say more?coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-31757024204955682010-01-21T10:24:00.003-05:002010-01-21T10:34:24.963-05:00<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;">יהוה שמרך יהוה </span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">צלך על־יד ימינך׃</span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">יומם השמש לא־יככה </span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">וירח בלילה׃</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande;font-family:ARIAL;font-size:100%;" >Yahweh is your keeper. Yahweh is your shade on your right hand.</span></div><p style="font-family: lucida grande; text-align: center; font-style: italic;"> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:ARIAL;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">The sun will not harm you by day, Nor the moon by night.</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:ARIAL;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family: lucida grande;"><br />Psalm 121: 5,6</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family:ARIAL;font-size:130%;"><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">What an awesome God we serve?! He is so intimately acquainted with ALL of our ways. He is Ever-Present and Ever-Strong, ready to take on our foes, and avenge our challenges, with a moment's notice. This Great God of ours is the God who fashioned the earth: who separated night from day and caused the waters of the seas to part. And yet, daily, He reveals Himself as our "shamar", our keeper, the One who guards and protects us like a watchman or shepherd. He knows our number and our value, within His flock. And this same God, not only watches but actively protects, our "Tzal," the Shadow that covers and envelopes us in safety and defense. He is not overcome by His Creation, but He cares for and preserves it. Therefore, I WILL NOT be AFRAID of the sun or moon, of my friends or enemies. For My Lord, ADONAI, Maker of Heaven and Earth, is not to be trampled upon by what He has made. No! He calls all things into His care and under His Authority. Hallelujah!</span></span><br /></span><p> </p><p><b><span style="font-family:ARIAL;font-size:85%;"><br /></span></b></p>coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-90190037428759294132010-01-20T21:50:00.001-05:002010-01-20T21:52:02.874-05:00Office SpaceWell, we are still in process of rearranging, but already - just 2 weeks into the New Year - I believe we will have an office that is practically usable, while tripling as a music studio and guest bedroom.<br /><br />It's good to have "Days off with Hubby."<br /><br />It's gonna be a good year...coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-65094128123639232322010-01-12T10:07:00.002-05:002010-01-12T10:11:26.555-05:00The Release...Sometimes I realize that I need to let go of what I've imagined life will be...<br /><br />Sometimes I get ahead of God, or just assume I know where He's going...<br /><br />Sometimes I forget that my interpretation of His Voice is limited by my human understanding, jaded by my emotions and experiences...<br /><br />Sometimes I remember that if He is Truly God and Truly Good and that He's ALWAYS been faithful, I don't have to fret now, even though I might not comprehend why I hear and see what occurs around me...<br /><br />Sometimes I have to release my desires, my will, my intentions and agendas, my hopes and fears - I have to release them all into His Hands and continue to trust that ALL WILL BE as He has Promised, though we can never fully know what that means without the journey...coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-35269154608103630852010-01-10T23:58:00.001-05:002010-01-10T23:58:23.876-05:00New Year...I want to dream again...coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-64472619563322322142009-02-23T23:37:00.006-05:002009-02-24T00:02:15.386-05:00I learned something new today...<span style="font-size:85%;">...about Coquina (pronounced "Koh-kee-nah") rocks. They're found by the sea, comprised of shells that have been broken down and mashed together over time. So, essentially, it's a type of petrification, except that they're already composed of hard, rock-like materials.<br /><br />Oh, I suppose that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coquina">Wikepedia</a> could do a better job.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">So, just enjoy the pictures:)</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDL98-NoVK68Po3ol3c35ljRzoZwobctBRig7Q670Ec8p7NK8zXoeYtMUa1nx3gJ5kz9huZGDncqwSLqB5dhLkjmyRBqNWfijhWEPgr8PzYgUrRJP-KBlW82PN93qOMmeaCXExM5h5MFY/s1600-h/100_1022.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 231px; height: 173px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDL98-NoVK68Po3ol3c35ljRzoZwobctBRig7Q670Ec8p7NK8zXoeYtMUa1nx3gJ5kz9huZGDncqwSLqB5dhLkjmyRBqNWfijhWEPgr8PzYgUrRJP-KBlW82PN93qOMmeaCXExM5h5MFY/s320/100_1022.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306219767224750626" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-lzUd5SV-X7DboUQXo9ZO9BEF_p4PcWWXoNkBcvd9BuFkD8jfnEwmX1Iyo10yBtU_gj6jmwxuATMyC-yX4W6wQRJOIPKXjGucmD3ZMZW5C5QUbM3CesXf1dQyoTxbyRxG4DcLc03DDQHp/s1600-h/100_1006.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 218px; height: 163px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-lzUd5SV-X7DboUQXo9ZO9BEF_p4PcWWXoNkBcvd9BuFkD8jfnEwmX1Iyo10yBtU_gj6jmwxuATMyC-yX4W6wQRJOIPKXjGucmD3ZMZW5C5QUbM3CesXf1dQyoTxbyRxG4DcLc03DDQHp/s320/100_1006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306219762844290626" border="0" /></a>coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-56293092487812220402009-02-21T12:33:00.003-05:002009-02-21T12:40:31.756-05:00Deja Vu?<span style="font-size:85%;">Well...almost.<br /><br />Two years ago, while on a respite from my volunteer work in Israel, I took a temporary job at a Panera Bread (a.k.a. "St. Louis Bread Company") in Columbus, Ohio. It was a great job with the pay that I needed, at the time, and an opportunity to meet some friends that I still know, to this day. I enjoyed and valued their in-depth training process and their seeming willingness to remain flexible with my travel schedule.<br /><br />So, when my husband and I realized, three weeks ago, that I would need to go back to work, for a season, I headed for the nearest Bread Co. Housed within a little plaza, just 15 minutes walk from our apartment, I thought that it would be the perfect fit.<br /><br />I started training this last week and it's been a bit surreal. I continue to sit through and read through materials that are all too familiar. Some things have changed, since 2006, but for the most part, it's just a different state and a bit more of a busy store.<br /><br />It's been a blast from the past that somehow holds my future. I am thankful for people and an opportunity to be character stretched, as it's been quite a "trying" week. This is where I presently find myself planted and I want to blossom here.<br /><br />G-d is good and I can do nothing but thank Him for, once again, giving us the provision we need for this time.<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">My God shall supply all my needs according to his riches and glory, in Christ Jesus.</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Philippians 4:19</span></span><br /></div>coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-41941091228422034932009-02-16T12:54:00.001-05:002009-02-16T12:57:26.842-05:00VALENTINE BLISS - A Tribute to the LOVES of my life...<span style="font-size:85%;">This weekend has been amazing: full of life and love and memory-making. And, it was all made possible by, not one, but three people. They are the three men in my life: T-LOMS, Avi, and My Darling One.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />T-LOMS</span><br />The first, and most prominent, is actually not man at all, but the shaper of men: ADONAI, The Lover of my Soul. I know and experience love, everyday, because HE exudes it and teaches it to my heart and the hearts of other. He embodies love, referred to in I John as BEING love, Himself. He therefore is the SOURCE for love’s distribution: the Great Warehouse from which we all acquire the level of love we each need and give (if we are willing to recognize Him). He plays the greatest role of love, because I know that without Him, I am not capable of accurately giving OR receiving love. Why? Because, as scripture states: We love because He first loved us... While I realize that passage specifically makes reference to the exchange of love between me and TOTWIC, it also implies further ripples of love’s affects, such as our relationship to those around us. I know my SOURCE as Father, Lover, and Faithful Friend. From HIS absolutely unconditional love, I have learned the value in its generous and humble expression and how to appreciate the way I am embraced by others. He is THE standard and has formed my identity and my opinion of what REAL LOVE should be.<br /> <br /></span><div style="text-align: right; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Thank you, LORD, for BEING LOVE and teaching me it’s true form.<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Avi</span><br />In Hebrew, it means “my father,” and it is the term I have come to use when making reference to, or addressing, the earthly embodiment of this role. My father is one of the most amazing men I have ever encountered: intelligent, humble, loving, and true. He is consistent in character, only changing when it means GROWTH. I admire him among my heroes and love him dearly, because, second to T-LOMS, he has taught me how to give and receive love. Shadowing the attributes of his HEAVENLY example, my father has shared his life and love, with his family: asking nothing in return, sincerely satisfied in our delight. He has tangibly shown his feelings and commitment with words and gestures of affection and intention. One such gesture - tradition for nearly 18 years - is the bestowing of a heart-shaped box of chocolate truffles on each of his girls. Though only made of sugar and bean (and known for fading with time), these cocoa-based delights have thrilled our hearts and spirits for almost two decades. Because, the value lies not in the gesture alone, but in the meaning behind the action: in the symbol behind the deed. For it speaks of his interest in our lives and his knowledge of past and future input. For many year, he WAS our only Valentine. We are both married now, having found our forever loves, but even with these shifts of directed dedication, Avi is unchanged. <br /><br />When I received my box, this year, I was surprised and emotional to discover that he would still impart such a gift to one who no longer falls under his covering. Through teary words, I thanked him and communicated the value of this annual treasure. He said that his track-record has been “too good” and though we have grown, and roles have shifted, he has no plans to cease this habit in the future. My heart was warmed. What a gift I have, not in a mere box of chocolates, but in the man that taught me life’s real sweetness is found in love, not inside a candy shell!<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: right; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Thank you, Avi, for giving form to the love ADONAI has shown...<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">My Darling One</span><br />The most recent addition to my line-up of cherished men is my beloved husband. He is the culmination of the roles and lessons played and given by T-LOMS and Avi. And, I am able to exchange love with him, because of the way they each faithfully taught me. With reception of Stevie’s love, my cup is full. I waited for his love the longest, for his role to come and complete my life. Not that completion can be found in man alone, but rather that I knew a promise, from T-LOMS, was yet to be fulfilled in the person of my husband. He is now my daily link to the flesh of ADONAI’s love and the continuation of the covering love my father has always given. He was approved and blessed by both, so I know that his love can be trusted, because I trust their love explicitly. I am grateful to know a man who is both lover yet friend, leader yet partner. He is my joy and my delight. He is my forever valentine, the one whom G-d has called to finish life’s lesson of love. And, while many classes still lie ahead, I am confident that his life will prove to be the greatest journey I have yet encountered. To love him is to know happiness and to be loved by him is to understand sincerity.<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> <span style="font-style: italic;">Thank you, My Darling One, for the love you freely give everyday, without expectation...</span><br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />I am blessed among women! For, I have the love of THREE incredible men. I have a foundation, a structure, and a breathing reality of what LOVE truly is. My heart is full, my spirit rejoices, and my life knows no boundary of satisfaction, because I have been loved in the truest way and it has shaped my very being. And everyday, therefore, is my Valentine’s Day. </span>coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-18101414516557017652009-02-11T22:07:00.000-05:002009-02-12T00:48:22.816-05:00Na-nu Na-nu<span style="font-size:85%;">the strangest ideas pop into my head, just after waking each morning. usually, i just let them wash over my brain until i have fully surfaced into conscious reality, but this morning, i began allowing each random thought to protrude from my mouth, attempting to let my husband in on all my "secrets." right or wrong, i think that i discovered one truth that has been hidden from all of us, until my discovery, today. (you may want to fasten your mental seat belts for this one)<br /><br />we all know that sleep helps our bodies recover and rebuild. we know that we need rest and that we function better when our nights are complete. yet, even with all that is known about R&R, there are still many questions left unanswered, including: What <span style="font-style: italic;">ACTUALLY</span> happens to our bodies while we are asleep? and, as of this morning, my answer is:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">We are temporarily transformed into aliens.</span><br /><br />yes, i DID just state that as though it were truth.<br /><br />i mean, who can know for sure if i am wrong? is anyone truly prepared to argue that we do NOT become aliens?<br /><br />my reasons for this seemingly absurd comment are as follows:<br /><br />1) when we sleep, our bodies are relatively "useless" to the human world, as we just lie around until we are awakened. however, as many aliens utilize the power of the mind to accomplish tasks, our value in that realm is absolutely intensified by our full submission to the world of the subconscious.<br /><br />2) dreams are similar to reality, but just different enough to appear as an alternate state of life as we commonly know it. i believe this is the wrestle between our human and alien forms. the human part of us reveals things as they are (circumstances, people, places, memories), but the alien part changes them (your friend suddenly has a different face, you find yourself with HERO powers/abilities, etc.)<br /><br />3) waking up takes time. it is a process to fully change back from alien to human form, and thus the process of waking up can often be frustrating and slow. the snooze button is actual an ingenious invention of those who recognize the tug between realms.<br /><br />4) "morning breath" is actually a remnant of having been altered. while aliens may be able to access more of their brain power than humans, they do belong to other worlds and their concept of hygiene is vastly different than ours, similar to that of amphibians and reptiles. when we awake, we are not dirty, as we may think. we have simply arrived back in human form with "alien" left on our tongues.<br /><br />after perusing my thoughts, i realize that i sound like a crazy person and NO, i don't <span style="font-style: italic;">actually </span>believe that we experience nightly body snatching. but, it is fun to think about these types of things and the child in me will always be willing to explore my thoughts and visions, no matter how bizarre they may appear to those around me.<br /><br />and to all of my readers from the planets beyond...LIVE LONG AND PROSPER!<br /><br />:)</span>coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6353885338307757282.post-74894628108241162992009-02-10T18:25:00.002-05:002009-02-10T18:30:13.272-05:00Raindrops on roses...- the smell after rain<br />- eating fresh baked bread (sweet cream butter or nutella make this even better!)<br />- opening a delightful bottle of red<br />- dark chocolate (70% preferred)<br />- lounging at home with a good read<br />- pondering destiny<br />- knowing that I am known (by TOTWIC)<br />- lying in the arms of my Beloved Husband<br />- hearing the sound of children's laughter<br />- watching videos of nieces and nephews<br />- chewing on some good WORD<br />- worshiping in total abandon<br />- being "clarified" by my sweet, patient earthly father<br />- speaking words of encouragement<br />- bonding with a close group of friends or family<br />- listening to someone share "their heart"<br />- walking through the Magic Kingdom<br />- going out for sushi<br />- stepping naked toes into wet sand<br />- surprising or being surprised<br /><br />these are a few of my favorite things...coconomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12245715055120700520noreply@blogger.com1