Breaking Through LC

"For as smart as he was, he could never get out."

This is Rudy, our beloved dog who loved to get beside or behind the couch. It was true, he always had to ask for help to get out of the predicament. He is no longer with us but when the pictures show up in our photo memories, they always bring a smile, a laugh, and a quick text to one another.

As my daughter and I bantered back and forth about his silly antics she ended with the above statement : "For as smart as he was, he could never get out." As I read that, I immediately thought, So true!" Then it landed...don't we ALL find ourselves in these tricky situations of our own doing; I know I have many times in small ways and very big ways. We then wonder how we got there...

I like to think of myself as an intelligent person but I guess that is one of the hard things about being human; we all make choices, decisions, go down rabbit holes (or in Rudy's case, under a table) that leads us to an unexpected result.

Also being human, we try to hide our predicaments and situations or try to figure it out ourselves when it would be wiser to ask for help. We do this due to embarrassment, many other reasons but worst of all shame or guilt. This serves no one well! I'm not saying there shouldn't be consequences, that is a conversation for another day. This is about Grace, compassion, and understanding.

Rudy never failed to ask for help with a sad look or maybe a whimper. I wish we all could do the same - ask for help (sad look and whimper optional). There are two roles in this to have a positive outcome:
1) The person asking must set aside their ego, pride and shame. They eventually need to look in the proverbial mirror to take responsibility of their actions but in the moment, they need to ask for help.
2) The person being asked gets to have their moment of surprise/shock or whatever is appropriate but them quickly come with compassion, understanding and patience.

It is important for everyone to have Grace and forgiveness for themselves and the other person. Yes, Grace goes both ways as the person being asked may not handle it the best but they showed up and did their best just as the person asking is not standing in their finest moment so let's learn to stand in the mess together the best we can. It is not easy but necessary for the wound to heal and the lesson to be learned.

May we all find Grace for ourselves and others as we navigate this adventure called life. I am grateful for my pastor who often reminds us "Our worst thing is not our last thing." Let's journey together as kindly as possible.

Peace and Blessings to each of you.

Embracing our journey by loving and honoring who we were and where we've been while also looking forward with hope and anticipation taking with us resilience and wisdom. Happy New Year! May it be full of delightful surprises and abundant blessings. #2025

Step boldly into today becoming ever more true to who you were created to be.

Coming to St. Louis area for a day of renewal!

I am so excited to be speaking along with two other incredible women at this one day retreat.

Learn more here: https://www.undividedec.com/renewretreat

Sign up to join us here!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/renew-retreat-tickets-714809704067

Hold on for your suddenly! Its been said, "One decision might make all the difference." The hard part is that you don't know which decision that may be. So, I encourage you to keep believing, keep trusting and following your intuition. Take that next step that leads to the next, and the next. You are not traveling alone, though I know if sometimes feels like it. Rest if you need, and you will, but keep going... you're "suddenly" is coming!

Discovering KC - July

Lawn Party at the Nelson-Atkins

Every month my friend Lori and I find something new to do in KC. This was one of the best yet! Good food, great music, and an ice cream for the walk home!

It is so easy to take for granted where we live. So I am especially grateful that when I moved back to the area, Lori and I committed to our monthly adventures. Each month, part of the fun is seeing what opportunity presents itself. I saw the sign for the Lawn Party on the way to work one day. Can't wait to see what August brings!

Go discover something new where you live; it makes makes your home town come alive! Life seems a little richer when we love where we live.

I hope you will share what you discover, I would love to hear!

Let the adventures begin!
Sharon

What a weekend! My cup was overflowing with joy! Hannah and Ryan came for a visit, Family and faith night at The K (my first time back in waaayyy too long - decades 😳), fantastic Crowder concert following the game, then finally worshipped at the Leawood campus of COR (I'm usually downtown😊) and caught up with a great family friend!!
Ready to take on the week😃

Read that again.

There comes a realization that this may include people close to us or in our lives for a long time. That realization may make you sad, mad or frustrated, those are valid and true feelings, feel the feelings then let them go.

Now, shift your perspective and find peace and freedom.

Sadly, some people will never know what was right in front of them all along.

Shine your light bright!
Sharon






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Time with my daughter❤️
We love trying new coffee shops and going to The Fox.
My heart is full!!!

I love when things cross your path right when you need them!

This popped up in my photo memories today. It is a reminder I needed to hear today and wanted to share the encouragement with you!

Whatever decision is weighing on you or the crossroad you are facing, rest in your faith to guide the way. Follow the small quiet voice inside, your spirit, your intuition, breathe and follow your peace.

Be still, and know He is God.

If your faith feels small, that's ok, this is where and how it grows.

Blessings on your journey!
Sharon