Grace-Filled Connections
When facing life moments some cultures may say “if it is not blood, it does not matter.” That has always been a tested concept for me. Reflecting on my life experience from birth to now, family relations and friendships have been a cumulation of life turbulence or roller coaster rides leading to a journey of connections. Connections birthed from biological or non-biological ties ranging from health to life matters. Shifting and navigating in what subconsciously prepared me for life adjustments and all the unpredictable “rides of life”. In this moment I am thankful for the example through my parents of how God can orchestrate unconventional connections gifted in friendship and relationships as family beyond blood line with kinship for lifelong bonds.
Being transparent this is me. . . in 2022 (really nearly the past decade) there has been this theme of healthy boundaries, awareness, and shifting. Turbulence and roller coaster rides . . . health, life adjustments, fertility challenges . . . It has all been a ride made durable through faith, prayers, a village and a continuous reminder God is with us in all things. This lesson for me has come full circle in its on manner navigating a new territory, resting and being grateful for bonds created amidst “life being life”.
The cliché of “it takes a village” can be personable. It does not have to be limited to familiarity or defined by the past. As life takes us in different directions the connection of life can keep us acquainted but the day-to-day events of life may push one to branch out . . . from a new career, relocation, life expectations . . . ANYTHING. My personal journey has taught me life has no limits nor a handbook on how “our story” will “play out”. Yet, not limiting ourselves to who or how God can guide us through the life matter can be a fulfilling soul discovery. Indeed, no man is their own island. No matter what I think it is safe to believe life has blessed many to have reminders of redemptive care through purpose-filled connections. (Sidenote: Remain vigilant for people who prey on your vulnerability and weakness. It could be a cunning kryptonite to your need to “feel understood” or their unawareness to “be needed”).
Confession: The summation of a pandemic era and identifying with a quarantine lifestyle pre-pandemic for health has created an epiphany with wonder where life and lives connect. Be it for a reason, season or lifetime being free to let go and flow with process can be a gratifying journey. Recalling the words my grandfather often spoke to me at one time echoes so loud in this turn of a new chapter, “Everything is not for everybody. You can’t take everyone with you where you go.” In meeting people and navigating different seasons or health matters this spoke to support, unapologetic understanding and the space to lean into whatever changes were necessary for our “new normal” to thrive in life. The process involved embracing this concept that challenged norms in every area of our personal life. Let’s talk about unconventional connections. It is quite an adventurous life-giving journey.
Reflection: Wrapping up another year . . . for many it’s been a turbulence of highs and lows. Riding the wave of life events as if it were a roller coaster. Literally and figuratively grasping to hold on as life gives its own dose of “reality”. It is ironic how this trendy term “life being life” knocks at the door of so many. For some it could be a deep dive of circumstances stretching their strength to endure “heart breaks” or “setbacks”. Then for others being catapulted to brace oneself for “epic moments” while maintaining a posture of peace which is completely unexplainable. Enduring, processing, purging, pruning . . . literally just praying for a year, month or day without any “surprises”. Yet when it is all said and done, looking around you may find yourself being supported by a village of people who are cheering you on. You know the circle of people who are encouraging you to “take time for you” (heart, soul, mind, body and spirit). Being able to pause, reflect and acknowledge the “life moment” in a healthy way. Sometimes we cannot predict how situations will unfold in life, but having the freedom to “just be” without apologies is a worthwhile process.
Shifting: As we prepare for 2023, being intentional about connections has been the area of “stretching” for me. Connections with life purpose, feeling the nudge of God saying, “I got you!” . . .Sensing the pull to walk away from comfort zones or familiarity for which God has said “Time to press on ”. . . being launched into the deep of God saying “I am with you” . . . Listen, I know and do understand it is not easy. Yet, having purposeful “connections” that syncs every area of your life is a joyful experience.
May your life connections and journey propel you into purpose-filled moments that allow God to be the anchor of your soul. May your reflection of relationships, kinships and friendships leave reminders of God’s unconditional love towards us. May new beginnings beyond your own fears surround you with people who pray for God’s good and perfect will in every area of your life. May you live to trust and obey God over the pressure of this world, family, peers or friends. May you seek God in such a personable way, that as long as you recognize God is with you nothing you face in this life will ever be too hard for Him to “see you through”. Let God connect your life with lives who encourage you to seek His purpose and promises no matter what happens. May your faith be the strength to trust God beyond what you feel or can not see.
Propelled for new beginnings and new chapters. . .thinking about the personalized paraphrased words of this classic tune, “Nobody told us the road would be easy, yet I don’t believe God has brought any of us this far just to leave us as we are.”
Life Connects and Lives Connect.
Here’s to 2023!
~Corri Rose~