What is success?

As I ponder this question I look back over my life and evaluate the successes and failures I have experienced. I believe real success comes from having a personal relationship with God. When we are right with God all other relationships are easier to work at. Success is all about relationships. Wanting to be the best you can be in all areas of your life{spiritual, emotional, physical} requires a desire for excellence rather than mediocrity.  Working towards excellence is an ongoing process, you never arrive. It is not always easy and you must perservere. One of my biggest battles is believing in myself. I often fear saying the wrong thing {so I avoid conversations} I fear doing the wrong thing {so I avoid taking a risk} I fear failure {so I try to achieve perfection}. I am sure we all battle these things but I am thankful that my heavenly father loves and accepts me just the way I am. My favorite verse is "I can do all things through christ who strengthens me." I want to be courageous and not settle for mediocrity but pursue excellence every day.

Thoughtful teacher signing out

Expectations!

I realized a number of years ago that I am the one responsible for my happiness. I often say that if I don't expect anything from anyone I will avoid being hurt or disappointed. We are all human and we deal with human nature on a regular basis. If I choose to be a woman of integrity than that is my choice, if I choose to pursue excellence in my life rather than mediocrity that is my choice. I should not expect a pat on the back because I have made that choice.  Neither should I be critical of others who choose to be mediocre and go with the status quo. However beware! In one's pursuit of excellence- going against the status quo may not be appreciated. Oh well if I am responsible for my happiness than I have nothing to worry about because that won't bother me. Hmmmm!! Am I making sense. Bottom line God knows my heart. He knows my motivations and my desires better than I know myself. After all he created me. By the way, when I take responsibility for my happiness it takes a lot of pressure off my friends and loved ones. That doesn't mean I don't want roses from my husband; or a hug from my children; or an occasional pat on the back from my co-workers; instead of expecting it, it is a nice surprise! Self-actualization can't beat it!

Decisions! Decisions!

I finally made the decision to complete my Masters in Educational Administration. Egads! I am committed now. But I have to complete it in the next year or else I will be out of the program. I love being a student but being a student and teaching at the same time will probably be a bit of a challenge. However I am always up for a challenge! I am excited to see what God has in store for me/us.

“The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. The fears are paper tigers. You can do anything you decide to do. You can act to change and control your life; and the procedure, the process is its own reward.”  Emelia Earhart

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."