A Legacy of Strength and Dignity

I come from a long line of strong women. A legacy of love, faith, dignity and strength that has been handed down to each new generation of daughters. Women warriors, so to speak, who led by example.

There are no recorded documents,  books or how to manuals to reference their heroic journeys. These timeless lessons and truths imparted not by spoken words of wisdom only, but witnessed through their daily actions. Their experiences giving merit and authority to their words.

Are these family traits genetically related to our DNA, or simply learned behaviors? Personally, I believe it to be a combination of both. In the learning process  we watch, we see, we witness, we mimic, we aquire and use the teachings. The knowledge that was handed down wasn't just about the physical struggles and practical survival skills. There was also a spiritual heritage; a belief, trust in, loyalty to God. While many will mock the traditional doctrines of an individual's religion and them for having a firm belief in something or someone with a lack of supporting evidence or scientific proof, I believe it because I've witnessed it personally.

We were taught by example to stand firm in our faith in God. To trust in His wisdom, especially when we doubted our own. We then witnessed the impossible being made possible.

Life Lessons Learned:

Make and honor your commitments and allegiances wether it's to a person or a duty. Fidelity in relationships are vital. Keep your promises, this is a reflection of your true character.

Sincerity in our intentions. Follow through. Be trustworthy. Say what you mean and do as you say. This is your reputation.

Don't be overcome by difficulties. Seek a resolution to problems and a strive for a way to resolve them.

Focus on better days to come.  Plan for a the future, and not stop, to linger or wallow in the past. Let go, let God, and most importantly move on.

Learn not just from your own mistakes, but also from those of others. You don't have to personally experience or repeat them in order to learn from them.

Never give up, lose hope, or allow yourself to drown in despair. This too shall pass and you will be stronger because of it. Feelings of hopelessness often lead to inaction. This will get you nowhere. Loss the why bother mindset. Instead strive to be
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." -Romans 12:12 (NIV)

Sadness is contagious, but so is laughter and happiness. So remember to think happy thoughts and seek joy.
"Whatsoever things are true, whatever is noble,  whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is praiseworthy,  think on these things. " - Philippians 4:8 (NIV)

Never let the enemy see your fear. Don't allow fears to cripple you or those around you. You are braver that you think you are.  Remember that the phrase "Fear not"  is stated in the Bible 365 times. That's one for each day!
"Fear not for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you, I will uphold you in my righteous right hand. " -Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

Chant the mantra: " Yard by yard life is hard, inch by inch life's a cinch"  This is your reminder to do what you can. Tackle the big jobs and problems one step at a time until you get it done. Persevere, even if it's only a baby step, it's still a step forward.

Storms are scary, remember your lifeguard (Jesus) can walk on water. Always look for the rainbow, God's promises awaits. He can restore beauty out of the ashes.
"To bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. Hey will be called Oakes of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor. " - Isaiah 61:3 (NIV)

When God closes a door it's for protection, when He opens a window it's for opportunity. Be patient and praise God in the hallway as you "wait upon the Lord".

Things could always be worse. Strive to make life a little easier for someone else. When we focus on others, it takes the focus off ourself and tends to put things into a clearer perspective. Ask yourself:  "would I really want to trade my troubles for their burdens?" Someone always has a harder struggle.

Encourage others. You know from first hand experience the pain, fear, and sufferings that come with hardship. Model endurance, exhibit and demonstrate faith, help, hope and healing.

Sometimes you have to "fake it until you make it. " Just take action. Engage in activity. It may be uncomfortable at first, but as you experience successes your confidence will grow.
"But he said to me, 'my grace is sufficient for you,  for my power is made perfect in weakness' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's  power may rest on me." -2 Corinthians 12:9

You are stronger than you realize. Be like the Little Engine That Could; "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can.....and I did!"
"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. -Philippians 4:13

All is not lost. Each day is a new chance for a "do over" to correct past mistakes. Tomorrow is another day, a chance for a new beginning and a fresh start. Failures do not have to be our final option,  but instead view it as a new opportunity.
"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." -Lamentations 3:22-23

Wishing you strength for the day and joy in the journey.