a faithful reminder.

It happens. This weekend, I had many moments of weakness. I felt emotionally overwhelmed, and I let insignificant situations control my thoughts and challenge my feelings of self-worth. I may be in the business of helping others, but I am very far from perfect.

When I got to church today, I had a little bit of a shield up. A shield larger than I initially realized. We got to a point in the sermon where sacrifice and how we are a genuine blessing to others were discussed. A story about 9/11 had begun. For starters, I don't think I can hear any 9/11 story without shedding a tear. The story was about Rick Rescorla, who lost his life on that fateful day. While everyone in the second World Trade Center were being advised to stay seated after the first tower was struck, Rick Rescorla rebelled and escorted his fellow Morgan Stanley employees out. He sang songs from his youth in the stairwells, just as he did for his men while serving in Vietnam. He rescued most of them, and then he went back in for more. He was never to be seen again. My takeaway was, here was a selfless man who gladly put everyone else's life before his own. A true hero. It left me asking myself, what am I doing to be a blessing to others? What legacy do I want to leave behind in this life?

It also weighed heavily against my shield. I did all I could not to shed a tear. I texted my aunt, briefly checked Facebook, and anything else that I could do to distract me; especially because I sat alone. It was hitting home, and the words were timely; as they always are. Well, during the final prayer, I lost the battle. Thankfully, the pew in front of me harbored a box of conveniently placed tissues.

I have been going to church every Sunday, but it is amazing how feelings can change between weekends. The weekly challenges can harden a heart. It is a reminder to get in touch with yourself daily, hourly, or even minute by minute. Whatever it takes. Even moreso when you are dealing with an internal battle and you feel alone along your journey. You are definitely not alone.

Whatever you are dealing with, give it to Him. Whether it is a situation out of your control, or just general anxieties. He will take care of you and light up your path. In return, you will be able to see the future clearly with faith. A faithful step forward is the most important step you will ever take.

One of my favorite quotes from today was: "instead of telling God how big your mountain is, tell the mountain how big your God is." Perspective indeed.

Happy Sunday! Be fierce.

Xo,

Lisa <3