We all have dreams and aspirations for ourselves. Since we were little we have imagined how our lives would turn out. We planned where we wanted to go, what we wanted to do, and even the houses we wanted to live in. Nothing was ever too big for us and nothing too far out of reach. When we were young our world was not bound, but rather filled with endless opportunities to get where we wanted to go. As we got older though, we realized even more the reality of those dreams. To some they became all but a distance memory and the thought of attaining those “big things” no longer seemed possible. However, for others, their world only got bigger, never losing sight of the dreams for their lives.
I have found though, that people don’t like to see you succeed. No matter what you do there always seems to be that person in the background telling you how you won’t make it. Slowly but surely peoples negativity has a way of getting inside your head. It’s like a plague that eats away your ambition until you’re not so sure you can keep up the fight. You run the race, but loose speed.
Tell me why we let ourselves get to this point? When did we ever get anywhere by listening to what other people had to say about us? To me nothing is ever too big and nothing is ever unattainable. Our dreams are all we have sometimes and without them we lose sight of our purpose. So next time someone tells you that your dreams are too big, just remember how small theirs are and never give up in pursing everything you’ve always wanted to do.
In Memory of Cartier White:
Cartier White was a guy unlike most you will meet. Someone that was never afraid to dream big. He had this unrelenting passion that captured everyone around him. He always encouraged me in the things I wanted to do, even when people around me sometimes thought those things were too farfetched. I loved him for his heart to go after the things he wanted, but most importantly that he never let people’s opinions stop him from chasing his dreams. So, I wanted to dedicate this post to him. Even though he is no longer with us, I will never forget his constant friendship of love and support or his belief in me that meant more then he will ever know.
So true!! Love this and love u baby girl!
You write beautifully, such insight for a young girl. I’m impressed!
Sharon,
Thank you so much! I don’t take your words lightly. : ) I hope you continue to read and let others know about my blog so we can bless as many people as possible!
Good morning Rachel,
I don’t know which writing is more touching. Reading your blog post which is always informative, fresh, and up to date (for me at least) or reading about Cartier. His story about the relationship you had expresses a deep fondness of two hearts woven together. I felt a lump as I read everything in past tense. And then the final goodbye was as if I could see a broken heart in the process of mending with why’s & how God, how?
Rachel, I write as one who’s been there. Who has all but given up hope of ever finding what was. But through it all, I’ve discovered this truth; that Garth Brooks owes me for taking my hearts cry & makin bank on it. Really, I’ve got no idea other than God’s unanswered prayers are sometimes the best kinds. On Earth, we may never see or know why situations never materialized. But, in the whole scheme of it all; keep standing. It’s then that the world looks on in astonishment with a “How in the world” & a persons answer is “But for the Grace of God do I march on.” So that the world may know…
Your writings are from the heart and they’re honest & true. Know that you’re special, accepted and loved for who you are, not what you do. In this world we were promised sufferings and acts of wrongdoing. I feel as tho I relate because my heart grows heavy, & hurts along with you. Just remember, when all hope seems to have disappeared, the light-love-and tender hands of Jesus will cause it all; to be more bearable. He has promised to never leave us nor forsake us. How the transparency of that truth rings aloud when we are real, and really seek after Him. His Word is truth, He does not lie. It’s our own clouded minds that distorts what is and what isn’t.
In closing, I wish you well and may our God be everything to you as you call upon His name. Just remember, He’s got a jar in Heaven with your name on it containing every tear you’ve ever cried. God alone knows the plans He has for you. His thoughts toward you are lovely, filled with hope and a love that’s never ending. Just trust, in Him; and you’ll do great things. There is no fear in His Presence, only a joy that’s overwhelming. “Blue skies-smiling at me. Nothing but blue skies, do I see. Noticing the days, hurrying by; when you’re in love, my–how they fly.” God forever Bless you and keep His covenant true. You are His dearly beloved, there’s nothing you can’t do. Love covers Rachel, Love covers. Believe it!
Wow….I’ve known Cartier since 6th or 7th grade…I opened this website because I was looking at his facebook…and its crazy how many people he was close to….and I read this and it made me feel better….I had never had anyone close pass before…but wow, your comment on her post is beautiful…
Katey,
I’m so glad you found my blog page from Cartier’s Facebook wall. He had such a big heart for so many people. I think it’s safe to say, Cartier “impacted” all that he met. He sure was a character! Thank you so much for your sweet words. I hope you will continue to check out some of my posts from time to time! <3
Yes definitely…its sweet of you to write such a deep message about him..I wish he would have known just how much he was loved….Anyways thank you tho…
David,
Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to reach out to me with those powerful words of truth. I’m sorry it has taken me so long to respond to you, but as you know, I always eventually respond personally to all my comments.
I must say it is never easy losing a close friend, but knowing he is no longer suffering in this world helps me make it through. Like I mentioned in another comment, while Cartier might have passed away his dreams will live on in the people’s lives he helped save through organ donations. What a powerful gift you can give to someone. It’s almost unreal to think that through the death of one, the life another lives on.
Once again, thank you for your constant love and support of me, my blog, and dreams. I know you are someone’s Cartier and let me tell you those kinds of people are few and far between these days. Always know that your encouragement and love could be the very thing that makes someone continue on when they might otherwise given up. Don’t lose sight of that precious gift the Lord has given to you. That is what changes people’s lives!
That post was beautiful Rach. Thanks for taking time to talk to all the “BIG DREAMERS out there; this was a very encouraging post. I can’t wait to read all the other responses from your blog followers! I’d also add to it something that encourages me every time I start to think my “BIG” dreams are impossible to reach: When I doubt my ability to reach the dreams that I know God has put in my heart, and compare my talents, gifts, abilities, and resources to what I KNOW it will take to see those dreams realized–what I have in my hand doesn’t measure up most of the time. BUT, if my dreams are from our father, and I try my best to stay obedient, HE can step in and lift me up beyond what I can do on my own. That is what keeps me believing everyday–maybe not every moment, but everyday.
Hi Rach’!
No doubt that God-given dreams are worth pursuing because we know that in the end, it will be for His glory. Every time a person dampens our enthusiasm (root word is en theos which means in God), we can just ask the LORD to open our eyes and make us see a situation the way He sees it. This is why God highlights child-like faith in scripture. God wants us to trust that He will complete the good work that He has started. As long as He is the author, He will finish it. 🙂
I praise God for bringing Cartier White into your life who obviously took the ministry of encouragement seriously. Although he already went ahead to be with the LORD, He did leave a legacy of love and friendship that will continue to bless you and others who read your blog.
Confideo,
Thanks for sharing some thoughts on here. I love where you say, “As long as He is the author, He will finish it”. That’s so good. Sometimes it’s helpful to remind ourselves why we started the things we are doing, because it reminds us why it’s so important that we finish. God has definitely put some crazy dreams in my heart, and I am confident through his help I will accomplish those things.
Cartier was a really great friend of mine. Of course, like us all, he was not perfect. However, like you mentioned he was always good about being encouraging to those around him. I just wish he could have felt that same encouragement when he found himself in his darkest hour. Cartier never got to see his dreams fulfilled, but because of his organ donations several other people will. Even though he has passed away, his heart for people will live on through the lives he helped save.
Rachel,
This is so true we can do all things through Christ, after all it is him that places the desires in our hearts to begin with and it is Satan who is always trying to keep us from what God has planned for us. Great words of wisdom girl!
Blessings…
THIS IS TRUE CAUSE I HAVE A VERY NEGATIVE FAMILY AND EACH TIME I GO HOME I SEE THIS. THEY WANT TO DO SOMETHING, BUT ITS LIKE A HUGE EFFORT FOR THEM. I CAN GIVE ADVICE ON HOW THEY CAN SUCCEED, BUT I’M HITTING A BRICK WALL. SO BY THE TIME I LEAVE, I FEEL SO AGGRAVATED THAT I START LOOSING FOCUS OF MY GOALS!! NEGATIVITY IS LIKE A SICKNESS, IT CAN INFECT YOUR MIND AND BIND YOUR HOPES AND DREAMS!!
I ALWAYS READ YOUR BLOG AND LOVE IT. IT’S ALWAYS FULL OF INSPIRATION AND ENCOURAGEMENT, BUT EACH TIME I WANT TO COMMENT I GET DISTURBED BUT TODAY WORK OR NO WORK I’M COMMENTING!
THANX
MARIO
Mario,
Thanks so much for following my blog so regularly. I’m glad I am able to offer you a source of encouragement through my writing. It’s always nice to have that place to go to when you are feeling down or upset. So I’m so glad you have my blog to read.
I’m so sorry you are facing a difficult time at home; that has got to be frustrating. There is nothing worse than having to be around constant negativity. You are so right when you say it can be like a sickness. That’s why it’s so important who you surround yourself with. Essentially, you are the people you hang around.
I have found from personal experience though, that if people don’t ask for my opinion they usually don’t like when I give it. Sometimes it’s better not to get involved with telling others how they should do things or even how they should live their lives. Even when you are trying to be helpful, it can be perceived in the wrong way. I think a good alternative would be to totally stop responding. People rather have negative communication, then none at all. By ignoring their negativity you indirectly take away their power. Eventually, they will see they are not going to get anywhere with you by being negative and hopefully change their attitude.
At the end of the day, family is family. I’m sure they love you very much. I would encourage you to reach out to them, even though you are upset. Remember, there is always a reason why people act the way they do. You never know what they could be going through themselves. You could be the very light to their dark world! I will be praying for you in this situation. I have no doubt you will do what is right. : )
Hey Shell,
How you doin? I just read your post. You mentioned the passage that many people love! And for good reason. About those God given desires. Psalms 37:4(3-7 for good context). I heard it put into perspective. For example: God, Father I love you and you know I do! Wow, you just amaze me. Everything about you is perfect whether I actively see your hand up in the mix or not. God, hmm…you know? I really feel I’d love to (fill in the blanks). First, before you fell in love with Jesus, would you or did you carry the same desires? Maybe so. But the rubber hitting the road may be this, That as you find your hope trust faith love acceptance and Delight in the Lord, you’ll see your desires the way God desires for you. Bottom line, God is the giver OF those desires. He is all about long suffering, I love ya Lord:-), but when we give Him a mere fraction of the patience He’s shown toward us; He’ll do more in us than we could have ever thought possible. Anyways, that’s my take on a follow up explanation as to our hearts desires. At least a way I see it.
Love reading your blog Rachie 🙂 Skys the limit 🙂
Hi, Rachel and everybody else who contributed to this blog post
I really believe in everything that has been said. I also wanna say that it is never too late to go grab that big dream you had before it was crushed and trimmed down to size by the so-called “realities” of life. But what is of even greater importance, however is the fact that we need to trust in God solely and fully with all our hearts and to seek his will over ours. Remember that when the sheep/lamb wakes in the morning it does not need to tell the shepherd where it wants to go or what it wants to do. Instead, it just trusts the shepherd to take care of it and indeed, the shepherd is more than willing to take care of it. So when we seek to be in the perfect will of God, all our problems cease and we need not worry any longer. His will and desire for us is truly great. Let us indeed have that child-like faith in Him. Remember, He is God, the creator of the universe. What will He not freely do for u after giving u His only begotten?
Frank Addae-Aboagye,
Thank you for adding your input! All of what you had to say was very good. You are right, but I’m afraid sometimes even if it really is that “easy”, it doesn’t ever feel that “easy”. Life isn’t all “peaches and roses” and when difficulties come our way, it can be hard to see beyond the trial we are facing.
I try not to write blogs where I come out and tell people how things are or what they should be doing. People have heard so much of all of that before. Sometimes, treating situations like this can push people away. I have found though, that no one can ever argue with experience, what you’ve personally gone through. I think when you become vulnerable in sharing with others your personal struggles; they’re more willing to let those walls come down. I would love to hear how you’ve followed God’s perfect will and as a result something you were dealing with was taken care of through him. I think that could be really powerful. Do care to share?
Rachel,
Another great and inspiring post. You seriously allowed faith to arise within me. Now I’m on turbo charge. lol It was so funny that I would find this post this morning because I was reading in Proverbs and I came over Proverbs 12:12 “Thieves are jealous of each others loot, but the Godly are well rooted and bear their own fruit.”
Those people that are speaking to us with a negative voice are merely thieves and if we allow them to steal from us we just get right down into their level and even worse if we start doing the same thing to others we are thieves ourselves!
We can produce our own fruit and there is no need to be jealous and try to take away others dreams.
This is one of those posts that you bookmark for the times when things look pretty dark. You were my ray of sunshine today Rachel. 🙂 <3 Thank you!
Jessica Vine,
I’m sorry I’m responding so late to you, I’ve been so busy! However, I’m so thrilled to read your comment! It is so awesome how God allows us to speak to each other when we least expected it. If you read some of my other response’s to other peoples comments, you will see how personal this blog was for me. It was birthed from a time of great struggle. However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, I promise!
It’s funny you should say, “I was your ray of sunshine”, because I feel like I’m standing on the other side basking in the beautiful sunlight. So, I’m glad I was able to pass some of that on to you and now hopefully you can pass it on to someone else. Together we can bring light to this dark world. Be encouraged and keep reading!
Hi Jessica,
I see the truth in ya Woman of God. That’s so cool to be a literal part of the Vine:-) I’m not anybody but me, and I may come right up from the hip, so to say. I do try to be eloquent, smart sounding with big words, and portray myself as “Aw yeah, I got it all under control.”
I’ve felt the need to express myself in that fashion bc I ‘have’ listened to others remarks. So, I’d come back and more or less “get down in the gutter with them.” I’d lower my worth, energy, & person as a Christ Follower. For sure, I wasn’t Acts 4:26’n it–I’d be 4:27 all the day long. Not trusting God to get vengeance; ah no. “Lord, don’t worry bout this one. I know a quicker, better way to see the wrath unleashed.” Mmm, ever been there?
Life goes so much better with cheddar. Really, I wasn’t working ‘with’ God, I was working things my own way and wondering why His stamp of approval wasn’t there. To matters into proper context, I haven’t lived a totally and complete heathenistic life. I’ve had many seasons of joy overflowing. But dang near like the Marine way of life; the Christian lifestyle runs parallel. Much textbook learning, basic training, survival techniques, then followed by leave time. Vacation. Well, fighting the good fight of faith in Christ has often ended with some down time. For me.
Anyhow, negative people give what they have. They probably don’t even know; it’s just a natural part of their life. John 8:32 is only good when you find out what truth applies to you, and go with it. Run with it! You have caught the truth about something that’s set you free. Till it gets revealed to me, ‘that’ truth ain’t gonna do me a licka sense.
May the God of Truth lead & guide you into all things true, lovely, and of a good report. You’re the head and never the tail. Never! I pray God’s rich & bountiful Blessings over everyone that comes here. Rachel, I’m not trying to get up in your place like that; I just get so excited when I am able to be here. This is a refuge, a safe hiding place for me. May God receive all the glory, praise, & adoration if I’m able, at all; to be a blessing to one.
PS: I know I’ve dreamed that I could be invisible, and go anywhere I wanted anytime. Then I met God. The end:-)
David,
I just now sat down to read through all of your comments. I once again apologize for taking so incredibly long to respond to you. I’m so GLAD you have found my blog and even happier you feel comfortable enough to share with everybody so much of what you are going through, what you’ve been through, and where you see yourself going.
I created this blog as a place for people, like yourself, to be encouraged, inspired, and loved. So many “faith-based” blogs are so much of the same old thing. I wanted this to be something different and unique. My slogan is, “Let’s Talk” for a reason. If you read my “About Me” section on here, you will see that I so badly want my readers to interact with one another. I am not able to get on here sometimes and respond right away, and it’s so nice to know other people jump right in answering questions, loving, sharing, and just being there for one another.
So please don’t ever ever ever feel like you are “invading”, because in reality you are doing exactly what I’ve always wanted all my readers to do. This is not a “one person show”, but rather a community of people who are just living every day by a grace we never deserved. You have such a natural humor and fun personality. Don’t ever lose that, because there are a lot of people that need something to make them smile and I believe you could be just that for someone! : ) See.
Frank! Wow…I see you’ve got a ministry to preach! Ain’t got nuttin but love for ya; you’re a real deal, no non-sense, cut thru the fluff & get straight TO. THE. STUFF person. Life has been getting so much easier to deal with BECAUSE I Got real with God & quit wanting to straddle the fence. No thing can touch or come close to the peace of God. Tonight, I began to wonder “Dear God, Heaven is looking a whole lot like home. What touched you Lord? Did I make you laugh? Lord, I love you…”
Pastor Frank, I’m a happy person who dreams stuff that others are like huh? Say what? Uh huh, ok; and just how do you plan to do That? You’d have to know me to understand me. Not in a bad way, but God has really down right spoiled me. To be who I am, I’ve had dang near everything I ever wanted. And no, not the Ferrari or Lambo; within my being able to manage it. I live by God’s Word, or just do my best. If God says I can have it, well I want it. If He says it’s mine, I gladly receive it. I just say my Daddy owns the cattle on a thousand hills. Thee one ‘thing’ I haven’t ever received as title deed was the missing rib. I mean heck, I’ve done the deep sleep thing. Came to with a brand new heart!
I could ramble for hours. Maybe I missed God? Maybe it was a test of obedience? Either way ya slice the pie, I’m left curious and cautious. Realizing nobody is perfect, I still choose to believe God has a big big part in the marriage pawd’na catergory. I’ve been through enough auto, house, phone, medical etc contracts that I’m looked at as slow for signing. “Just a signature is all we need” and next thing I know, I might end up at another military training base. I tend to analyze things. (Caught you off guard) I’m signing off by allowing the words of JJ Heller’s real love song tell it all. God Bless all y’all good people. Much love from Jesus…
True story David, Indeed, I do have a ministry to preach and that it what I love doing to bring glory to God. I have no bitter or hard feelings against anybody. I wonder why you need to comment on peoples’ comments but a little humour is good because God has a sense of humour. I wish you a great weekend. You are also called to preach. Do not have any hard feelings or regrets for anything you might have done in the past.
God’s servant,
Frank
Frank Addae-Aboagye,
I’m not sure why you responded to David’s comment with, “I wonder why you need to comment on peoples’ comments…”. I want this to be a place where we can ALL talk and share with one another. I know you probably meant nothing “mean” by it at all, but you have to be so careful how you come off. I have found that perception is often times greater than reality. If someone feels you are a certain way, that’s their reality, even if that’s not who you are.
You never want to come off either as “you are better” than other people. So many have been so turned off by this attitude, and like I mentioned in my other response to you- walls go up. I know you have a heart for the things of the Lord. I think that is evident, but just be careful next time with your “word choice”.
I was glad to read through the rest of you and David’s comments to see you guys work things out. I was starting to get nervous there for a second. I don’t ever want someone leaving my blog with their feelings hurt, because that would be going completely against the reason I started writing. I love so much that you are reading and commenting! I hope you will continue to read and share! Be Blessed!
Hi Rachel, I am back home (Sweden) from India now. It was a great excursion and it also gave me a well-needed opportunity to just relax and breathe. Once again you have posted a beautiful collection of words (blog post). And I realize to say that doesn’t make justice to your text, because I feel it is far more than just words put together. I really sense your heart in your words, they touch me. Thank you so much for that. You see, we don’t get Daystar in Sweden, so if you can mention that request to someone at Daystar it would be great 🙂 Thank you for praying for me, it means a lot. All the best to you Rachel.
Love,
Peter.
Peter,
Thank you for those kind words! Did you ever see my response to your first comment? Please let me know, because I’m really curious to hear your thoughts! Please write back : )
Hey Frank,
Awesome weekend to you as well. Every time I say something to someone here, I do so in “Lord God, this is Rachel’s heartbeat. Shut me from intruding, diluting, or misgiving!” The Bible verse that talks, “and all that’s left is a certain fearful expectation of Judgment.” This blog-ministry wasn’t intended for little Dave to hop up and be like “Hey, I’ma help out here.” Every time I hit send, it’s the feeling of “Now why’d I do that? Expect your termination letter from Rachel. Dismissed.”
Pastor, Bishop, Evangelist Frank; I was saved literally, kid you not–from the hands, jaws, teeth of death! I can’t help but to speak what I know in the only manner I know it. Radically raw bc I want no one to see what I almost saw! I’m a fun guy and Jesus loves fun. There’s a time & a place for it all. There is absolutely not one thing that’s gonna happen to me, you, every person that comes here, or Rachel that hasn’t already happened before or a situation you’re found in. Ecc 3, 1 Cor 10:13.
The world says reincarnation, I say God was, is, and is yet to come. The world says Planned Parenthood, God says great work! Fear not, now let’s plan on being a parent. The world says same sex relationships are the new way to live. There’s nothing new about it. Look at Sodom (Sodomy) and Gomorrah. It’s God, who In the Beginning said that a man shall not lay with another man as he would a woman. Who are WE to REWRITE God’s laws?! That my friend is being caught by a jealous God who shows us The Way to live the short time we have here. “I have set before you life & death this day. Therefore, choose life.” Is that what the world considers as being inconsiderate, not open to change, having a one track mind? Being told “ma’am, sir there’s a devastating fire ahead. Please, leave and evacuate now.” That’s care, compassion, and a heart to help. It’s love. May be tough love at first, but it’s L O V E. Being inconsiderate, rude, a wrong attitude & hating your neighbor would be welcoming them to a deadly path of destruction with a grin saying “What if I offend them? What if they’re feelings get hurt?” I’ll just keep silent so we can be friends.
Wouldn’t you rather live life with a conscience free of guilt and put your trust in God & believe for a better future with the assurance that everything is going to be alright vs just wingin it thru living on borrowed time knocking on wood wherever you go hoping things will turn the best and makin it thru bc you asked your friend in the supermarket to remember & say a prayer for you? A prayer? If it matters to you, it matters to God and “a prayer” has about as much effectiveness as “a drop” of water has to quench your thirst after a good workout.
I would love to know Rachel’s thoughts concerning a random person who found her blog to be his hiding place. I say again that it’s not nor was it my intention to come up in her work and act like it was my own! This is her place of time & effort, I’m just responding bc she writes on matters so close and near to my heart, that passing it is comparable to passing the heart of Jesus and being unmoved. That, to me; is a scary and frightful state to be found in. Know Jesus, Know Peace. No Jesus, No Peace…Know Him today. He loves you and wants to talk about it. Will you answer His invitation? He’s waiting…
Good morning everybody & Frank, wonder no more. No need in wondering about the “Y’s”. I know me, God knows me, and really that’s it. But, that it may give you insight–I long to connect with the people I once knew. See Frank, the deep sleep I referred to was a 3 week coma of which there’s absolutely, positively no possible thought derived from a human ‘medical’ brain that can even come close to making a somewhat rational conclusion based on history or Ivy League Education and teachings to “If a + b = c” then looking at this boy means we must quit because! as to my existence; my living, breathing, Walking & Talking
(Con’t) As to my life & condition “today”, the medical community which we need so God Bless them, but the smart ones that get paid the big dollars to prophesy another’s ‘condition’, say what they’re taught. What they see feel or touch. Many choose not to embrace the God who made the human brain. A Maker owns the patent rights to the created object. Not the other way around! BMW makes a fine automobile. They are the “brain” behind the machine. If a Ford mechanic comes along claiming to know everything about the “Y’s” to the BMW, does he have any legal right? Maybe a guess from his learned trade, but I’m left guessing that’s it.
In short, no I don’t know it all & don’t claim to. I respect and honor those who do spend a lifetime learning the Y’s in understanding the basic fundamentals of God’s creation. I stand in awe at those who have a tremendous grasp on how things may work if we try this, whatever this is. But refusing to acknowledge God in the equasion to come to a conclusion is kinda ignorant, in my own personal opinion. When you take God ‘out,’ you invite confusion chaos & misunderstanding to come ‘in.’
I don’t have any education other than high school. That’s fine. And I’ve never darkened the doors of a seminary. I have no need to know about God, but to simply know God. And the only way I’ve found to know God is through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. His teachings don’t cost money and the best thing about it is this: it doesn’t matter who you are, where you came from, what ‘color’ you are, what you have or haven’t done; He takes Anybody who’s willing to learn. If you’re teachable, you’re reachable so Y wait? His enrollment time is 24/7/365. Handicaps, disabilities, unusual participants; He gladly welcomes all with arms wide open.
You mentioned preaching; every person is called to preach. Some do so with words, some through their living, some by through music and/or other giftings & talents. Let your lifestyle preach how & what you believe. And just let it, so that the world may know. Smile.
Sorry for the unintended attack on your personality, bro David, I am very sorry. Know that all that you have been through is for a reason, best known to your Creator. I would ask that you try to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, strength. Love you.
Frank
Thanx for writing Footprints On The Moon. It gave me soooo much hope to keep my dream alive. I had almost given up. You are a blessing!
PS. Please check out a new band for your show Sound Check. @seeitrising This band rocks!
Chandra Hester,
I’m so glad I was able to help you pick back up some speed! That is one of the most wonderful things one of my readers could tell me, “I almost gave up, but didn’t”. I’m so glad that I was able to help encourage others through my very own struggle of the same thing. We all have so much to do and accomplish, we don’t have time to let ourselves get discouraged. One of my all time favorite quotes says, “Many of the great achievements of the world were accomplished by tired and discouraged men who kept on working.” So happy for you and all that YOU are going to accomplish in the months to come.
Thanx Rachel I hope you will check out a new band for your show SOUND CHECK @seeitrising
This band rocks!
Hi Rach,
I just want to say keep up the good work. Your blog posts are truly inspiring. I have been watching the ads on daystar but decided to see whats it’s all about. I thank God it was worth my time. God bless you
Ebenezer,
I’m so glad you decided to check out my site. I like to think my blog is a little different then most “faith based” blogs in that I don’t try to sway people in a certain direction. I value so much what everyone thinks and so much believe that we all have something to share that could be the difference in someone’s life. I hope you will continue to read more and share this site with your friends so we can reach as many people as possible! : )
Rach, thanks so much for sharing this blog. It has personally inspired and encouraged me to keep on striving towards my dreams and to never ever give up. Keep the great writtings coming, we all sure do enjoy them!
Lydia,
I’m glad you enjoy my writing, that’s always nice to hear. This is probably my most favorite blog I have ever written. It came from a period of personal struggle I went through because of certain people seeming to think I always did everything “big”. I got to a point where I thought it might be better to not pursue such things while I was in school. I questioned if being a normal college student would be a better fit, in essence taking away anything for people to talk about. However, when you are following the Lord’s leading, no one else’s opinion matters. The Lord reminded me that I needed to stop trying to fit in, when I was born to stand out. Since then, I can’t even begin to tell you the incredible opportunities the Lord has laid in front of me. I’m doing and in the process of doing things even “bigger” then I had ever imagined. I have found that God tends to have a sense of humor like that.
All of that’s to say, I’m glad I was able to inspire you. Never give up in all that you want to do, because I promise you what God wants to do in you, is even better than anything you could imagine on your own.
Frank–it’s all good. No harm no foul. It’s all good in Jesus’ hood, know it. Smile.
I have dreams about being part of the greatest show on earth as a ringmaster. These dreams keep coming back to me a lot of times and I have Williams Syndrome. I’m 21 years old and I’m sure someday those dreams will come true. Thanks for encouraging me to keep dreaming big. I get excited every time I think about what God has planned for me!
Never let anyone steal your dreams dear Harlond… Just keep trusting in God… even in spite of the odds and the difficult times… why?… because God always wins and has no competitor… Stay blessed….
Frank Addae-Aboagye,
Thank you so much for stepping in for me with encouraging Harlond. That was just so kind of you. I’m so impressed with my readers more and more everyday. I’m so glad this blog has become a community of people loving, supporting, and encouraging each other. These are the very reasons I wanted to write a blog and I’m so glad to see how it has become just that! Thanks again!
Harlond Mulvay,
I’m so glad you have found my blog and appreciate your willingness to share with us your dreams and aspirations. I think it’s even cooler we are both the same age! I have been to the circus before and I must say it is quite a spectacle. I can only imagine what a fun guy you are if you want to be a part of something as colorful and exciting as that.
I think it’s so cool you have such a positive attitude, even beyond your physical limitations. That really shows me a lot about your character as well as your determination to succeed. I can tell you of a lot of different people with similar situations as you that ended up making a huge difference in this world despite their disabilities. I believe those people were able to overcome these disadvantages, because like you they never lost sight of their dreams. It’s then that you show the world you are not limited but rather limitless. : )
Thank you both for your encouragement. I will continue to keep striving till it comes true and I will not let anyone steal my dreams. I feel like I have new friends to talk to today. I just finished another day at the gym and I’m striving to feel better and to loose weight.
I saw your blog advertisement on Daystar earlier this afternoon. It caught my attention. As I have read your blog, even just the first and second line of it, the insight is really there. Specially this “Footprints on the Moon”, I was really blessed by it and the person whom you dedicated your blog to was very inspiring. I have a very low self-esteem and I think this attitude hinders me in doing what I want to do. Thanks for your blog, it inspires me a lot. I have always been looking for some people to talk to. Someone that could understand me. This is Aubrey, 24, from the Philippines. GOD BLESS!
Aubrey,
That’s so cool you saw my blog commercial in the Philippines, I’ve actually spent a lot of time down there doing different projects. I’m glad you decided to go ahead and check out my blog.
Thanks for sharing some of what you’re personally going through. I think a lot of us girls struggle with “self-esteem” at some point in our lives. It’s hard to feel confident in ourselves living in a time where so much focus is put on our “looks” and “appearance”.
If you have some free time I would really like for you to listen to this sermon by Pastor Morris, who is my pastor. It talks about pride but it also talks about insecurities. I think it will be a really great encouragement to you in dealing with what you’re facing. If you do listen to it, make sure to comment me back with what you thought! Remember God made you perfect just the way you are! Never forget whose your daddy : )
Here’s the link to the sermon: http://gatewaypeople.com/sermons/125706/audio
My son was 18 yesterday. I’m sending him these words in hopes he will always hold on to, and pursue his dreams. Thank you for a great post.
Hi Rachel,
I watch your programs on Daystar regularly.
I wish I had this insight of not letting what other people say affect me when I was younger ‘coz it has cost me a lot in life. I turned 40 last week and realized my whole life has been about pleasing others.
Your maturity at 20 is amazing! Keep up the good work…With warm regards and blessings for a wonderful life ahead!
I just discovered your blog from watching Daystar and I’ve read a few blogs to far. I think they are amazing! You’ve given me the drive to not give up on my dreams. I want to be an author and I tend to dream a bit big. I see my name on books in bookstores and people buying them and loving my writing. I already publish stories on the story sharing website FanFiction.Net under the name of Ireland Maslow.
From posting stories on FanFiction and reading your blog, I’ve decided I’m not going to let negativity stop me from writing. I’ve done it before and I didn’t write for about a week before my mom convinced me to continue writing. Now, I dont’ ever want to stop writing. I was just starting out when I got discouraged to write but my mom’s faith in my writing helped me to continue. Now you’ve given me a new drive to continue writing also. So thank you so much! <3