Focus on God + Good

I came up with the title for my blog by using the KISS method: Keep It Simple Stupid. The purpose of this blog is to focus on God and good, love and light. I realized that I needed a consistent way to "look on the bright side". (I have recently fallen into this bad pattern of being negative and seeing only the bad things in life.) I wanted to take back what I can control in my life, and what I can control is my attitude, my thoughts, my actions, and reactions. That is all anyone can control. So, I have started this blog to change my attitude and focus on the good. What better way to turn your frown upside down, than by sharing with others the goodness of God and the goodness in life?

I have been very blessed to have had an amazing life so far. God has seen fit to keep me from too many trials or heartaches during my first 35 years of life. Then, about three or four years ago, He decided it was time that I put Him front and center. 

I grew up in a loving household with my mom, dad, and younger brother. I had both sets of grandparents, and lots of aunts, uncles, and cousins who were always around. We were a church-going family and God always had a place there. But, when I went off to college, I stopped going to church. God faded from my view.

I think I was about 12 years old when I became "saved". I look back now and understand that while I knew of God and about God in a metaphorical sense, I didn't actually have a personal relationship with Him. But, now, because of some personal trials that I have gone through in the last few years, I can proudly say that I know God. Not only do I know Him, but I trust in Him. He has always been with me, even when I didn't recognize Him or know it. I am so grateful!

While I don't want to get into my personal business, I do want to share that both my husband and I have faced many stressful trials over the last few years. We have gone through job troubles and the struggles of having to move, the terrible losses of four close family members in quick succession, and the loss of a beloved pet, among other things. During all of this, there were many, many times when I didn't think I would make it through. I actually thought I would be going back to Milledgeville*, but this time it wouldn't be to go to school. (For those of you who are not familiar with Milledgeville, it is where the state mental hospital is in Georgia.) I have witnessed someone going through a mental breakdown before. It is a horrible thing to see. During these last few years, I kept wondering if I was having a nervous breakdown. Thankfully, I haven't. 

The reason I haven't have a nervous breakdown, is because of God. I made my way to God and truly found Him and started a personal relationship with Him for the first time in my life. I have to thank my friend Christy for putting my on the right path. She would sometimes share with me inspirational emails that she received from Guideposts. (I highly encourage you to check out their website and sign up for their daily scripture and reflections.) They would have Bible verses in them and uplifting quotes and thoughts. These emails made  me realize that I was missing God from my life. I have needed Him desperately. I have been making my way to Him ever since. And, as I said before, He has always been with me. But, now I am cognizant of this fact, I am grateful for it, and I am trying my best to now live my life for Him, not for myself.

So, while this blog is to help me have a grateful and thankful attitude towards this life, at its core, it is for God's glory.

*Oh, and if you are interested, Atlanta Magazine did a fabulous article on Central State Hospital in Milledgeville this past February.

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