Valuable Relationships

Hello, my loyal friends! As I am writing to you, I have sold my home that I was in for almost six years in Land O Lakes, Florida. When I first moved in I had so many great expectations of new beginnings with my family. My oldest son Michael, my youngest son David, Sparky my dog along with my husband and me I. Little did I know that when I would sell the house I would be living alone.

Although it was a transition from all of the events that happened to me, one thing is for sure, it was God-placed people in my life. The people that he placed have marked my heart in a deep way when I needed them the most. They have given me emotional support, heartfelt comfort, and wise advice. I have been able to grow in various areas in my life. They have enriched my life considerably and I am so thankful because of it. Today I am a wiser, stronger, happier person because of God and the people I have called my true friends.

What to look for in relationships that are genuine and connect on a deeper level? There are four categories of people: one group that subtract, another group divide, third group add, and the last group I love the most is multiply. You have found a great relationship when there is transparency, vulnerability, honesty, mutual respect, trust, and above all genuine love. Hold on to those relationships and nurture it. Just like a plant that it needs to be watered and cared for so are the valuable relationships in your life.

“As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” Proverbs 27:17

Peace, Love, and Joy!

Governing Our Thoughts

Isaiah 43:18 “Do not remember the former things or ponder the things of the past. Listen carefully, I am about to do a new thing, now it will spring forth; Will you not be aware of it? I will even put a road in the wilderness, rivers in the desert.”

You cannot think of the past and future at the same time. Space is limited in our conscious mind and will be in constant battle with each other. One will become your focal point while perhaps the other silenced. It is important to come to a decisive choice of which one will govern your thoughts.

When you decide to focus on the present and future endeavors, you will be able to appreciate the opportunities that will arise. It will come forward to meet you eagerly. God will cause the areas of your life you were uncertain about and provide clear path for you to walk into successfully.

1. Write down at least three categories in your life you want to improve in the now to impact your future.

2. Strategize a game plan to achieve the goals you are wanting to accomplish.

3. Have accountability partner to ensure you stay the course.

4. Celebrate the wins and evaluate the opportunities along the way.

5. When you complete your goals, reflect on your results, and write them down to encourage yourself.

6. Share with others what you have learned and applied personally.

7. Repeat this method in other areas of your life. Enjoy the process!

Your life will have a different landscape as you shift your thoughts into action.

Your better days are in front of you, run toward it with joy!!

Peace, Love, and Joy!

Sandra Ivette Miranda

Time of Reflection

Hello, my loyal friends! This month have been truly a time of transition for me in every sense of the word! And with that, it seems like a whirlwind of things to do and complete comes with the territory. It has taken me into a spinning mode that I don’t know if I am coming or going.

I said to myself, STOP for a moment! It was necessary for me to take time to evaluate and regroup to determine what has been done. This is a vital part of the process to know what actions still need to be completed. It’s exciting and scary at the same time!

A time of reflections allows you to not only think of the things that has been done but also reflect on the feelings it evokes within you. Things, places, and people are part of our lives that we connect with emotionally. Truly exposing those elements will allow you to deal with and release so that you can move forward.

Suggestions that I would encourage for you to consider in your time of reflection:

1. Go to a peaceful place- such as beach, mountain, park, etc…

2. Take a journal so you can write your feelings and experiences.

3. Be silent and just hear nature speak to you and hear the voice of God.

4. Use a voice recorder to say what is in your heart.

5. If possible, do this on a weekly basis.

6. Let God speak to you through your surroundings, your experiences, and thoughts.

7. Write them down as you receive it.

When you quiet your soul and spirit, you will receive creative ways to solve opportunities in your life. Embrace tranquility and you will be refreshed to do the “next” in your life with lasting success.

“Commit your works to the Lord (submit and trust them to Him), and your plans will succeed (if you respond to His will and guidance).” Proverbs 16:3