I am in the process of creating and launching my new Website! I am VERY excited and cannot wait to share it with you.
In the mean time, please pop over to my other Blog ~ Just My Two Cents at:
http://justmytwocents2.wordpress.com
It's still me, on my journey to inspire...
Please stop by. See you soon! Just My Two Cents...
About Me
- Just My Two Cents
- Ashburn, VA, United States
- I am a Freelance Writer and Editor working on my first book! LOVE to read, write and meet interesting people. Mother of two of THE most fabulous children who have ever walked the face of this earth! They are my world and my inspiration. I look forward to using this blog as an opportunity to further enhance my writing skills, build my platform while learning and growing as a writer and as a person. This is a way to share my life experiences and thoughts with others. Welcome to my wacky world!! :-D
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Friday, April 8, 2011
"Clear the Mechanism"
Remember the movie "For The Love Of The Game", starring the eternally gorgeous Kevin Costner? It's a love story about a 40 year old Baseball legend named Billy Chapel who is at a crossroads in his life. We have all been there to some degree or another. Unsure of what lies ahead for us.
The plot summary, as written by Erwin van Moll (max404@hotmail.com) describes it best in his review: "A Baseball legend almost finished at the age of forty has one last chance to prove who he is, what he is capable of, and win the heart of the woman he has loved for the past four years."
In the movie, Costner's character often uses the term "Clear the Mechanism" to block out the "clutter" in his head and focus on the game. I feel compelled to share a wonderful lesson I have learned from those three little words.
When at a crossroads, faced with one of life's many challenges, or letting go of and healing past hurts, my recent experiences have shown me that the only way to move forward is to have a clear, focused mind.
In life, we tend to carry with us, excess baggage from our past. This negative energy drains us and can actually impede our ability to move beyond our past and embrace our future.
It is time to let go of all of the pain and fear that scar our souls, moreover, it will surely block our blessings if we do not rid it from our lives, NOW.
Our scars remind us that the past was real. The pain suffered is the price we pay to learn the lesson(s). If you do not learn, you are doomed to repeat the cycle. How can you heal? How can you grow? First and foremost, FORGIVE yourself. Then you can focus on forgiving others.
Letting go is easier said than done. However, it is absolutely essential and necessary to "sweep out" the negative forces that are preventing you from healing and restoring the balance back in your life. How can this be accomplished?
Once again, speaking only from personal experience, I have learned to simply, "Clear the Mechanism. Just My Two Cents...
The plot summary, as written by Erwin van Moll (max404@hotmail.com) describes it best in his review: "A Baseball legend almost finished at the age of forty has one last chance to prove who he is, what he is capable of, and win the heart of the woman he has loved for the past four years."
In the movie, Costner's character often uses the term "Clear the Mechanism" to block out the "clutter" in his head and focus on the game. I feel compelled to share a wonderful lesson I have learned from those three little words.
When at a crossroads, faced with one of life's many challenges, or letting go of and healing past hurts, my recent experiences have shown me that the only way to move forward is to have a clear, focused mind.
In life, we tend to carry with us, excess baggage from our past. This negative energy drains us and can actually impede our ability to move beyond our past and embrace our future.
It is time to let go of all of the pain and fear that scar our souls, moreover, it will surely block our blessings if we do not rid it from our lives, NOW.
Our scars remind us that the past was real. The pain suffered is the price we pay to learn the lesson(s). If you do not learn, you are doomed to repeat the cycle. How can you heal? How can you grow? First and foremost, FORGIVE yourself. Then you can focus on forgiving others.
Letting go is easier said than done. However, it is absolutely essential and necessary to "sweep out" the negative forces that are preventing you from healing and restoring the balance back in your life. How can this be accomplished?
Once again, speaking only from personal experience, I have learned to simply, "Clear the Mechanism. Just My Two Cents...
Monday, April 4, 2011
If love is a Battlefield, why hide your scars?
I must confess, I AM a true 80's child. The music reminds me of my hopes and dreams and how in my naive youth, I just KNEW that one day, I would make a difference in this world! The irony is that because of my battle, in my own way, I am doing just that; making my impact!
One of my favorites was and still is, "Love Is A Battlefied" by Pat Benatar. I remember getting all pumped up and excited about her message of empowerment to women! We are tough, we are strong, and we do not have to sit back and suffer in silence! Yes at times; love can be a battlefield. So we must stand up, and not be afraid to have our say, or make changes if necessary.
While driving back from my dermatologist's office this morning; I am trying to remove a scar which occurred during my tumultuous marriage, her song came on and as I sang along to the words, I started to wonder the real reason for me wanting to "hide my scar"?? I have absolutely nothing to be ashamed of.
In any battle, you will be wounded, be it physically, emotionally or even spiritually. So it got me to thinking, if love really is a battlefield, and you are strong (as the song says), your battle most likely will have produced a few scars, but the message resonates loud and clear: you came out of it ~ VICTORIOUS!
So why hide your scars? Instead, be proud, you fought the good fight, you are the winner and what's a little scar anyway? Just My Two Cents...
One of my favorites was and still is, "Love Is A Battlefied" by Pat Benatar. I remember getting all pumped up and excited about her message of empowerment to women! We are tough, we are strong, and we do not have to sit back and suffer in silence! Yes at times; love can be a battlefield. So we must stand up, and not be afraid to have our say, or make changes if necessary.
While driving back from my dermatologist's office this morning; I am trying to remove a scar which occurred during my tumultuous marriage, her song came on and as I sang along to the words, I started to wonder the real reason for me wanting to "hide my scar"?? I have absolutely nothing to be ashamed of.
In any battle, you will be wounded, be it physically, emotionally or even spiritually. So it got me to thinking, if love really is a battlefield, and you are strong (as the song says), your battle most likely will have produced a few scars, but the message resonates loud and clear: you came out of it ~ VICTORIOUS!
So why hide your scars? Instead, be proud, you fought the good fight, you are the winner and what's a little scar anyway? Just My Two Cents...
Sunday, April 3, 2011
The Short and Sweet
One of several lessons I have learned and want to share with you today is that you cannot live your life for others. Your soul and your heart belong to God and to you only.
Thankfully, my healing has begun and for some reason, music has helped play a huge role. It is soothing, and has helped to energize and inspire me whilst I heal.
I believe that music gives our soul to the universe; wings to our mind and life to everything. Oh, how very important it is to always have a clear mind.
Something else that I have learned: Accept your part in the the things that have happened in your life and FORGIVE yourself as well as those who have caused you harm. When you can do this, you will move on. So claim it, even say it out loud! "I AM MOVING ON!!" What a glorious feeling!
Remember, we are all human, and as such, we make mistakes. Sometime those mistakes make us sad and throw us off balance a little. It's okay, for it is the sadness that makes us human. The beauty is that the mistakes WILL make you wiser if you are willing to receive the message.
We are all where we are supposed to be in our lives right now. Accept it and embrace it for there is always something to be gained by what our experiences can teach us. The sadness will eventually go, and give way to happiness.
One last thing to share; something that a high school friend of mine posted on her face book page recently and it really made me laugh.
"Women are Angels, and when someone breaks our wings, we simply continue to fly...on a broomstick. We are flexible like that!" Thank you Stacey for helping to bring my sense of humor back and understanding that even when you hurt, you WILL laugh again. Like it always will, time moves you on.
The short and sweet of my message today is simply this; Peace be with you, never give up hope and may love reside in your heart always! Just My Two Cents...
Thankfully, my healing has begun and for some reason, music has helped play a huge role. It is soothing, and has helped to energize and inspire me whilst I heal.
I believe that music gives our soul to the universe; wings to our mind and life to everything. Oh, how very important it is to always have a clear mind.
Something else that I have learned: Accept your part in the the things that have happened in your life and FORGIVE yourself as well as those who have caused you harm. When you can do this, you will move on. So claim it, even say it out loud! "I AM MOVING ON!!" What a glorious feeling!
Remember, we are all human, and as such, we make mistakes. Sometime those mistakes make us sad and throw us off balance a little. It's okay, for it is the sadness that makes us human. The beauty is that the mistakes WILL make you wiser if you are willing to receive the message.
We are all where we are supposed to be in our lives right now. Accept it and embrace it for there is always something to be gained by what our experiences can teach us. The sadness will eventually go, and give way to happiness.
One last thing to share; something that a high school friend of mine posted on her face book page recently and it really made me laugh.
"Women are Angels, and when someone breaks our wings, we simply continue to fly...on a broomstick. We are flexible like that!" Thank you Stacey for helping to bring my sense of humor back and understanding that even when you hurt, you WILL laugh again. Like it always will, time moves you on.
The short and sweet of my message today is simply this; Peace be with you, never give up hope and may love reside in your heart always! Just My Two Cents...
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Dear CJ and Reilly
I dedicate today's Blog to my beautiful children ~ they are my inspiration and without them; I would be nothing.
Every pain I have suffered, tear I have shed, obstacle I have overcome, and heartbreak I have endured; has made me a stronger, wiser, more loving and courageous woman, and mother than I ever thought I could be!
That being said, remember that a smile is a window on your face to show that your heart is at home. I smile at my children because my heart is always at home when I see their beautiful faces.
A word of encouragement during failure is worth more than an hour of praise after success. I encourage my children because their potential to succeed in this world is immeasurable. I love them unconditionally because they are truly my gifts from God!
CJ and Reilly, my old souls; your Mommy loves you more than life. Please know that I will be here for you always, to help pick you up when you fall down, to teach you the lessons I have learned, to soothe your broken hearts, and to help keep you on the path that God has chosen for you.
My darlings, I love you even when you drive me nuts, and when I fuss at you.
You two are the loves of my life and have taught me so much! You will both be stronger, more courageous, wiser and compassionate souls than I could ever be. So
dare to dream BIG, and never be afraid to risk.
I carried you both in my womb and loved you long before ever even meeting you. You two inspire me each and everyday! I will protect you with every fiber of my being. Even when I leave this earth, which will not be for a very long time,(SMILE) I will still be with you. My legacy will live on through the two of you.
Mommy fought some tough battles but came out victorious because I needed to teach you what it really means to be strong and courageous even when all seemed lost. So my precious babies, Always keep your hands firmly planted in God's hands. NEVER give up hope, and remain committed to your beliefs.
One of the most difficult things to give away is kindness, but remember my loves, it will come back to you. Be humble, thankful, and carry yourselves with dignity and grace even during life's most difficult storms.
Dear CJ and Reilly, God Bless you both! KNOW that your Mama LOVES you and I THANK YOU for making me a better person!! Just My Two Cents
Every pain I have suffered, tear I have shed, obstacle I have overcome, and heartbreak I have endured; has made me a stronger, wiser, more loving and courageous woman, and mother than I ever thought I could be!
That being said, remember that a smile is a window on your face to show that your heart is at home. I smile at my children because my heart is always at home when I see their beautiful faces.
A word of encouragement during failure is worth more than an hour of praise after success. I encourage my children because their potential to succeed in this world is immeasurable. I love them unconditionally because they are truly my gifts from God!
CJ and Reilly, my old souls; your Mommy loves you more than life. Please know that I will be here for you always, to help pick you up when you fall down, to teach you the lessons I have learned, to soothe your broken hearts, and to help keep you on the path that God has chosen for you.
My darlings, I love you even when you drive me nuts, and when I fuss at you.
You two are the loves of my life and have taught me so much! You will both be stronger, more courageous, wiser and compassionate souls than I could ever be. So
dare to dream BIG, and never be afraid to risk.
I carried you both in my womb and loved you long before ever even meeting you. You two inspire me each and everyday! I will protect you with every fiber of my being. Even when I leave this earth, which will not be for a very long time,(SMILE) I will still be with you. My legacy will live on through the two of you.
Mommy fought some tough battles but came out victorious because I needed to teach you what it really means to be strong and courageous even when all seemed lost. So my precious babies, Always keep your hands firmly planted in God's hands. NEVER give up hope, and remain committed to your beliefs.
One of the most difficult things to give away is kindness, but remember my loves, it will come back to you. Be humble, thankful, and carry yourselves with dignity and grace even during life's most difficult storms.
Dear CJ and Reilly, God Bless you both! KNOW that your Mama LOVES you and I THANK YOU for making me a better person!! Just My Two Cents
Monday, March 28, 2011
The Bitter and the Sweet...
As I sit here this morning I am feeling a sense of peace, for my fight is finally over. I am FREE!
Not one to be a victim, but let's face it, I have survived vicious attacks by the Devil himself, my now ex-husband, insincere friends, but perhaps most painful is the betrayal by a family member. Ouch ~ that one still stings a little.
I am reflecting on the events that led me to this place, and ask myself; where to go from here? One thing I know is that there is no where to go but UP cause baby I have been all the way to hell and back twice!
My sense of humor is coming back because I feel like breaking into song ~ Sir Elton John's "I'm Still Standing--Better than I ever was!" comes to mind.
I have thought long and hard about the lessons I have learned on this long and arduous journey. One the of the most inspirational quotes that comes to mind is from the late, great Ms. Lean Horne. She said it best, "It's not the load that breaks you down; it's the way you carry it."
Yes, I have hurt, I have cried many a tear. My heart has been broken. At the end of all of this, what can I take away that will not leave me powerless, rather POWERFUL? How can I turn my pain into a way to truly inspire others?
I am afraid I do not have the answer yet. But I do know that I have carried my load with dignity and with grace. Maybe, that is all I can give right now. But I am finally free and with that freedom comes a sense of peace like no other.
I am learning to forgive myself ~ not an easy feat. Baby steps. One door has closed, the Bitter. The upside? Another door is opening, the Sweet.
When life knocks you down, as it surely will; first get on your knees and ask God for strength. Then get up and thank him for that strength! Sometimes, at my lowest point, I prayed for strength to make it through just one more day. Many times I could not see it or touch it, but now I realize why ~ He was literally carrying me through my darkest hours. God was my strength!
I humbly give thanks everyday because with each breath, I grow stronger. I have more confidence and some have said that there is an inner glow about me. Maybe I am beginning the healing process.
I have let go of the past and my need to control everything. I have surrendered to what God has planned for me. My focus has become finding my center/inner balance.
I will share this with you and sincerely hope it will help and spare you some of the pain I have endured: Happiness really does come from within and it IS a choice. Sometimes you must lose it all to just find out who you are and what you are truly made of. The financial loss will come back ten fold ~ you MUST BELIEVE!
I no longer look back, I look ahead to all of the blessings that are coming. Some are already here, I must just be still to recognize them.
Life is a pill. It is both Bitter and Sweet. I recommend a big glass of water to swallow. Just My Two Cents...
Not one to be a victim, but let's face it, I have survived vicious attacks by the Devil himself, my now ex-husband, insincere friends, but perhaps most painful is the betrayal by a family member. Ouch ~ that one still stings a little.
I am reflecting on the events that led me to this place, and ask myself; where to go from here? One thing I know is that there is no where to go but UP cause baby I have been all the way to hell and back twice!
My sense of humor is coming back because I feel like breaking into song ~ Sir Elton John's "I'm Still Standing--Better than I ever was!" comes to mind.
I have thought long and hard about the lessons I have learned on this long and arduous journey. One the of the most inspirational quotes that comes to mind is from the late, great Ms. Lean Horne. She said it best, "It's not the load that breaks you down; it's the way you carry it."
Yes, I have hurt, I have cried many a tear. My heart has been broken. At the end of all of this, what can I take away that will not leave me powerless, rather POWERFUL? How can I turn my pain into a way to truly inspire others?
I am afraid I do not have the answer yet. But I do know that I have carried my load with dignity and with grace. Maybe, that is all I can give right now. But I am finally free and with that freedom comes a sense of peace like no other.
I am learning to forgive myself ~ not an easy feat. Baby steps. One door has closed, the Bitter. The upside? Another door is opening, the Sweet.
When life knocks you down, as it surely will; first get on your knees and ask God for strength. Then get up and thank him for that strength! Sometimes, at my lowest point, I prayed for strength to make it through just one more day. Many times I could not see it or touch it, but now I realize why ~ He was literally carrying me through my darkest hours. God was my strength!
I humbly give thanks everyday because with each breath, I grow stronger. I have more confidence and some have said that there is an inner glow about me. Maybe I am beginning the healing process.
I have let go of the past and my need to control everything. I have surrendered to what God has planned for me. My focus has become finding my center/inner balance.
I will share this with you and sincerely hope it will help and spare you some of the pain I have endured: Happiness really does come from within and it IS a choice. Sometimes you must lose it all to just find out who you are and what you are truly made of. The financial loss will come back ten fold ~ you MUST BELIEVE!
I no longer look back, I look ahead to all of the blessings that are coming. Some are already here, I must just be still to recognize them.
Life is a pill. It is both Bitter and Sweet. I recommend a big glass of water to swallow. Just My Two Cents...
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