BYKOTA: God’s Desire For Us--by Nancy Williams

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 22:04:07 -0500

Kindness. ‘Seems simple enough. We’ve heard it since childhood. “Be kind,” our parents instructed as we learned to get along with others. We found that being kind at school secured friendships and sometimes landed us a place at the head of the line. Webster defines kind as, “of a friendly, or good-natured disposition; coming from a good-natured readiness to please others.” The Apostle Paul instructed us to “Be ye kind, one to another” (Ephesians 4:32 in the Bible’s New Testament).

Being kind is easy, especially when we know we’ll reap a reward. I’m kind to you and you reciprocate. We both win. We’ve heard that one good turn deserves another, so we look for opportunities to share that kindness and receive the benefits back. On a recent trip, people offered to help with my car and luggage. I valued the kindness but felt I was expected to respond. I did appreciate the assistance, and I suppose we had a mutual understanding: they’d be kind and I’d tip them well.

A few years back, a book gained popular acclaim, encouraging ‘random acts of kindness.’ We were challenged to be kind without expectation of return from the recipient. The focus: the gift being given. The result: satisfaction in giving. Simple. Unselfish. Rewarding.

It was a buzzword that lingered for a while, that is, until we once again found ourselves caught up in the demands and challenges of life. We turned back toward the person in the mirror, making sure our needs were met, sometimes being accused of having a what’s-in-it-for-me attitude. “You need to look out for #1” was a message we heard around us. So much for following God’s ‘be kind, one to another’ command.

It does seem as if we can be kind to others when life flows smoothly and our needs are being met. We extend a bit of kindness out of the overflow of our cheerful disposition. But what about when times are hard? When we struggle with life’s challenges and face its disappointments? When people let us down and disappoint us? When stress, anxiety, depression and fear stir in our minds and hearts? And yet, reaching out with gestures of kindness in times like these is a powerful way to look beyond our own problems and experience the joy of giving something of value to someone else. Joy that can ease our burdens and calm our hearts.

I remember watching a television program that dusted off the ‘random acts of kindness’ concept. Each day people gave unexpected gifts to others – roses to passersby on the street, bagels to workers at a nearby laundry, shoe shines to waiters at a local restaurant. Teachers at a community school were treated to manicures. They even paid the fare for drivers on a toll road across town. In some cases, the recipients didn’t know who shared the kindness. They simply received the gift. Kindness, pleasing others, acts of good will, simply for the sake of being kind.

Since that program, I’ve benefited personally from many acts of kindness. A repairman went the extra mile on a job for me without charging an additional fee. I was juggling several boxes while making my way to the office when a voice called from behind, “Here, let me get the door for you.” A client brought this same spirit of kindness to my office, “I bought a soft drink and thought you might like one, too.” Later, I was patiently waiting in line at the store when the person in front invited me to check out my few items ahead of her basket full.

Each one gave a gift - kindness - at just the right time, without expectation of anything in return. I received respect, consideration, and assistance. What did I give in return? A thank you, certainly. But it didn’t stop there. They walked away, I trust, with satisfaction from having given a gift. I moved on with a desire to pass that gift on – to pay it forward. In the spirit of kindness, I encourage you to share that gift as well. Then let’s see what happens in our community, in our homes and in our hearts.

Be ye kind, one to another (BYKOTA).

New Season Sparks a Spirit of Hope--by Nancy Williams

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 22:03:04 -0500

Our clocks have sprung forward and our senses have awakened from a cold, quiet winter. Spring has indeed arrived in all its splendor. A vibrant color palette and a crisp sweet fragrance have exploded around us in bouquets of pink, white, yellow and red. Look up. The sky seems bluer, don’t you think? Perhaps because it serves as a backdrop for gentle blooms of fruit trees and budding leaves emerging from once barren branches.

We’re hearing the hum of lawnmowers coming out of storage to groom our yards and the greetings among neighbors emerging from hibernation and getting reacquainted. There’s the laughter of children resonating throughout neighborhoods as they set aside indoor games for bicycles and baseball bats.

Things are stirring indeed. We’re meeting each other more frequently on the greenbelt trails and in the fitness centers as we work off the extra pounds we collected over the holidays. We’re out and about more, busy with activities that warmer weather brings. Our weekends are filling up with festivals, from crawfish boils and home and garden shows, to arts and crafts of every description. Spring-cleaning is part of our agenda as we clear out the clutter and organize our closets, our garages, maybe even our lives.

We seem to have more energy. More optimism. More focus. We’re waking up physically, emotionally and spiritually. It’s a time of renewal, a time of hope. HOPE. A four-letter word we seem to use often as we think about things we wish for. “I hope the economy turns around soon.” “I hope our ball team wins the championship.” “I hope the rain washes away this pollen soon.” “I hope I can get time off for a vacation.” “I hope you’ll get over your illness soon.” “I hope you know how much I love you.”

But hope is so much more than merely wishful thinking. When I speak of hope that comes with the birth of spring, I’m referring to the assurance we choose to have that what we believe will come to pass. When we set our sights on this kind of hope, we establish goals, develop a plan, then move forward with confidence. We believe if we plan carefully, work diligently, choose an optimistic attitude and don’t give up, we’ll meet success at the end of the journey.

It’s that kind of hope that drives us to plant our gardens, prune our shrubs, take steps to improve our health, cheer for our children’s sports teams, press on through these challenging economic times, and encourage each other as we place our trust – our hope - in God to guide our steps in this new season of our lives. Maybe it’s the new life budding around us. It could be the reconnection with others after the solitude of winter. The warmer weather and increased sunlight, perhaps? In may come from a time of spiritual renewal we just experienced this past Easter as we reflected on God’s amazing sacrificial love and promise of life everlasting. Whatever the catalyst, we are stepping out in a spirit of expectancy. A spirit of hope.

Certainly we’re not naïve. We know that the best-laid plans don’t always bring about success. In spite of our dreams and efforts, life sometimes takes unexpected twists and turns. Yet when our hope is well grounded, we move ahead with a spirit of assurance, determined to extend our best effort, weather the storms and experience the joys around us on our life journey.

The Bible’s New Testament offers some words of encouragement that can guide us as we step out together into this new season of spring. “Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality” (Romans 12:9-13 NLT).

May we hold onto hope, celebrate beauty, experience God’s love, work diligently, encourage each other and therein find true joy as this season unfolds.

Be encouraged.

In The Spirit of Giving--by Nancy Williams

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:10:44 -0500

Okay, we’ve finished the leftovers and waved goodbye to the company who shared a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday with us. Now December is here and our focus is on Christmas. Those reminders about the number of shopping days left are, indeed, grabbing our full attention.

I know there are some of you who have your gifts bought, wrapped and already under your beautifully decorated tree. To you I say, “Congratulations!” Of course, you’ll miss all the holiday lights. No, not those that adorn the houses in our neighborhoods, I mean those red taillights the rest of us will be staring at as we crawl along in traffic heading to the mall.

You won’t experience the thrill of the hunt as you cruise around for that one last empty parking space, and the exercise from hiking your way across the lot as you juggle your packages and search for your keys. You’ll miss fighting the crowds for the last minute sales offered on the few sought-after items still on the shelves. You won’t get the adrenaline rush that comes from hurrying to creatively wrap gifts and get them under the tree before it’s time for family to rip that paper right off.

To those of you who, like me, are busy making your gift list, creatively reworking your schedule to find shopping time, and mustering up the courage to dive into the crowds and experience holiday shopping at its best (?) I say, “We can do it. Just take a deep breath and repeat after me: ’tis the season to be jolly!”

In an attempt to balance finding the perfect gift with getting the shopping done, I asked my sons for suggestions. “What would you like for Christmas?” Now they are very different in many respects; but this was one time they decided to think alike. “I don’t know. Let me think about it and get back to you.” Get back to me? What do they mean? Haven’t they looked at the calendar and heard those warnings from the media that time is running out?!

I suppose I will need to generate my own shopping list: what to give to the special people in my life. Actually, all complaining aside, I look forward to this season of sharing. It’s a time for me to reflect on God’s most precious gift of love to us, his own son; and it’s a wonderful time to share that love with the people he has brought across my path.

Some have needs that are apparent: I know just what to give. Others invite creative thinking on my part as I consider how to share the spirit of the season with them. There are gifts that will require a purchase while others ask only of my time and attention. Some will be experienced the moment they are given while others will be enjoyed long after the season ends.

If you, too, are working on your gift list, perhaps some of these ideas will be the perfect fit for that special person. In fact, these suggestions may even encourage you to add to your list of people to honor this holiday season.

⎫ Make an extra portion of your favorite homemade dish to share with a neighbor.
⎫ Baby-sit for a single parent who has some shopping to do.
⎫ Donate some gently used clothing to an area mission.
⎫ Participate in a holiday program your church offers as a gift to the community.
⎫ Offer your volunteer services to a community organization or ministry.
⎫ Stay in touch with someone you know who is dealing with a loss in life.
⎫ Go Christmas caroling.
⎫ Take care of your own health as a gift to your family.
⎫ Donate to your favorite charity in honor of someone.
⎫ Be patient with the sales clerks who are trying to meet everyone’s needs.
⎫ Hold the door open for the person behind you.
⎫ Rake the leaves and pine needles for someone you know has difficulty with yard work.
⎫ Smile at those who cross your path.
⎫ Create a meaningful time of celebration with your family.
⎫ Leave a note and perhaps a homemade treat for your mail carrier.
⎫ Give your time.
⎫ Give a hug.
⎫ Give a word of encouragement.
⎫ Give hope.

I could continue on but I have to hurry the clock’s ticking and there are gifts waiting to be given. Happy holidays!

Nancy Williams, LPC is a licensed counselor and life coach in Kingwood. For comments or information email Nancy @ www.nancywilliams.net

Facing Life’s Storms--by Nancy Williams

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:09:39 -0500

I’m sitting here with my eyes on the computer screen and my ears tuned to the weather channel, wondering if Hurricane Ike is going to pay a visit. It was a long day at the office today, as I met with several people facing significant life challenges. Relationship struggles. Job loss. Depression. Anxiety. Spiritual battles. Then I came home and found a note from a friend undergoing treatments for a rare form of cancer.
Storms. They’re all around us. In the Gulf of Mexico, in our businesses, in our homes, and in our minds and hearts. Stirring. Challenging. Threatening. I heard someone use a phrase recently that caught my attention: storm fatigue. Interesting concept about the impact of facing storms. We hear about a possible storm approaching and we quickly prepare to protect ourselves and deal with whatever is coming, whether we choose to leave or stay to face it head on. We consult with experts to understand what to expect and we gather resources. We’re ready.
Then the storm hits. Or, perhaps it passes us by and we breathe a sigh of relief, “We made it.” We put away the supplies and get on about our lives. Then, we get the word: another storm is approaching. “Oh, no. Here we go again.” Time to gear back up for whatever is coming next. Tiring. Stressful. Discouraging. We find ourselves wondering, “Can we fight another battle? Weather another storm? Deal with another challenge?”
Life is like that for many of us. Storms come. We find a way to weather them. We breathe a sigh of relief as things settle down. Then, we turn around and find something else approaching. “Now, what?” Do we gear back up and prepare? Can we? We want to deal with whatever comes along; however, we find ourselves struggling to find the energy to fight again. Fatigue can easily set in. Will we give in and give up? Or, will we press on and face whatever may come.
We’ll find it helpful to look back and see how we weathered past storms. As I wonder about the possibility of Hurricane Ike approaching, I need to consider how I dealt with past hurricanes that threatened our coastline. I remember when we faced Hurricane Rita a few years ago. We had a choice: we could ignore it, we could let our concern spin into fear and panic - prompting us to make improper decisions or no decision at all, or we could resolve that with God’s help we would get through whatever was to come.
As much as the positioning of the storm itself, the attitude we chose to embrace determined our steps. We had to look within for determination, courage and focus to assess and make wise choices. We looked around for information and support. Most importantly, we turned to the Lord for guidance and protection. We moved from uncertainty about survival to belief in recovery.
Then the storm came. We didn’t know how it would impact us, but we pressed on, placing our faith in God’s protection and provision. Believing that with His help, we would deal with whatever was to come. In that assurance, we found courage and strength.
Perhaps that’s a blueprint for dealing with whatever storms come our way. First, choose a positive attitude, confident that we will get through whatever comes along. Then gather information and seek guidance from experts. Identify support systems. Take care of physical needs. Most importantly: call on God and claim his promise to stand beside us, guide our steps and carry us through whatever comes. Promises like the one found in Isaiah 43 (the Bible).
But now, this is what the Lord says…“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. when you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”
Storms come and storms go, but we can press on and confidently face whatever comes, with God by our side.

Nancy Williams, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a counseling, coaching and consulting practice in Kingwood. Send comments and questions to her at www.nancywilliams.net.

A Legacy of Freedom and Faith--by Nancy Williams

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:08:08 -0500

As July unfolds, we will join people across the country to celebrate that momentous day, when a group of leaders gathered to sign a document that would change the course of history, in our land and around the world. The Continental Congress in Philadelphia adopted the Declaration of Independence, unanimously declared by the thirteen United States of America, on July 4, 1776. As signed copies of the document reached various towns throughout the colonies, eager citizens gathered at courthouses and town squares to hear the public announcement of the birth of a nation. It began with this statement of observation:

“When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness...”

It continued with a list of the colonies’ concerns and the failed attempts to resolve them with the British monarchy; and it closed with this declaration:

“We, therefore, the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States, that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. — And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.”

Annual trips to historic Independence Hall in Philadelphia were part of my childhood experience. Each year as I gazed at the Liberty Bell and heard The Declaration of Independence read again, my young mind imagined those representatives who came together from different backgrounds but with a common purpose: to forge a new nation. These early leaders left a powerful legacy for us to draw from as we face the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. These touchstones can influence us individually and collectively as a nation of people bound together in a spirit of freedom and democracy.

• We must know what beliefs we hold dear – the principles we want to base our life upon – and why they are of value to us.

• It’s important to stand strong for those beliefs – to speak out, not just about what we are against, but also for what we favor.

• We need a solid foundation to uphold us when the challenging winds of adversity blow, a source of strength to guide and sustain us.

• It is important for us to cherish our freedoms and not take them for granted.

In October of 1774, Congressional representatives wrote a letter to the colonies while the question of independence was being considered. It included the following statement which is as applicable to us today as it was then: “Above all things, we earnestly entreat you, with devotion of spirit, penitence of heart, and amendment of life, to humble yourselves, and implore the favor of Almighty God: and we fervently beseech his divine goodness to take you into his gracious protection.”

As we celebrate this special day in the life of our country, let us pause to remember the principles set in place by those founding fathers, beginning with the encouragement to humble ourselves, pray and seek God’s guidance, protection and healing for our land.

May God bless America.

Celebrating A Cord Of Three Strands

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:07:06 -0500

Summer has arrived. Heat. Humidity. Allergy attacks. Mosquitoes. A battle on our lawns to see which can grow quicker: the grass or the weeds. Increased gas prices just in time for vacation trips. Children looking for entertainment to fill their days. Okay, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to depress anyone. Summer does bring some pleasures as well. More daylight hours. Outdoor concerts. Barbecues. Vacations. Visits from family and friends. Celebration of our country’s heritage. Relaxation in our attire and our activities. And weddings: oh, so many weddings.

The community sections of our newspapers overflow with photographs of couples proclaiming their love for each other as they become husband and wife. Family and friends gather to celebrate the journey they are beginning. Often during the wedding ceremony, the bride and groom hear words of challenge to work together, to honor, respect and support each other, and share all that life has in store. Friends and family offer support and encouragement as the couple pledges to be life partners. The music plays, the vows are spoken, the rings are exchanged, God’s blessing is sought, the partnership is declared and the journey begins.

While the idea of working and sharing together is strong at the beginning, relationships can easily drift as each partner focuses on building, achieving, acquiring, meeting needs and managing what comes along their path. If not careful, the sense of partnership can fade from the shining promise of togetherness to a dark cloud of aloneness, as each goes in search of independent dreams and desires.

But look again at the newspaper. You’ll also see the glowing faces of couples that have protected and nurtured their partnership, now celebrating many years of marriage together. Gather with them in times of celebration. Hear their stories of weathering life storms, sharing each other’s burdens and enjoying each other’s successes. They have learned how to blend together their personal life experiences and perspectives in a way that honors both their individuality and their union. Sit at their feet and allow them to teach about joy, strength, sacrifice, compromise, unselfishness, support, compassion and commitment. Listen as their hearts proclaim the privilege of having and being helpmates.
Partners.

I read some comments recently from a young woman whose great-grandparents celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary. There were six children, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren in their clan. As this young woman spoke of her strong family ties, she mentioned that there had not been a divorce in the entire group. “We are all committed to working on our relationships because none of us want to face my great-grandparents. They’ve told us that if they can work at having a good marriage for 75 years, so can we!”

This month, my husband and I will celebrate 34 years of life together as husband and wife. We took some time recently to slip away from the demands of our busy lives to share some relaxation time together and reflect on our relationship. To celebrate what is working well for us, and to set some goals to strengthen our relationship as we step into a new year together. A marriage check-up of sorts. Nothing complicated, just an opportunity to renew our commitment to God and to each other, to celebrate the love He has given us, to hold ourselves accountable to how each will strengthen the relationship and to look ahead to all God has in store for us.

Successful business partnerships know the importance of periodic reviews to assess what is working and make adjustments as needed to strengthen the business and foster success. Our personal relationships need the same careful time and attention if we want them to be all that God designed.

Opportunities for partnership extend beyond marriage to neighborhood, business, ministry and community relationships. As we create these bonds, let’s be careful not to become so focused on acquiring and achieving, or becoming so independent that we miss the beauty found in joining together to share both the challenges and blessings of life.

May we acknowledge God’s presence and seek His guidance as we take purposeful steps to honor, nurture and protect the partnerships in our lives. “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12 – the Bible).

Watch Out For Those Weeds!

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:06:33 -0500

This morning I spent time with some cheerful spring flowers. Trimming, shaping and arranging them into a delightful bouquet filled with color and a hint of whimsy to offer a ‘welcome’ at the front door. I enjoy designing with silk and dried flowers; and I can arrange fresh cut blooms to please the eye, but please don’t put me outside in a flower garden and expect anything positive. God just didn’t bless me with a green thumb. I do so enjoy the vibrant displays of color in the yards of others. I just haven’t worked at cultivating the skills needed to create that look myself. As for my husband, now there’s a man who can work wonders with soil, seeds and fertilizer along with some time and effort. His mother always had a prolific garden overflowing with luscious flowers and tasty vegetables; and he and his siblings all seem to have that same gift. Indeed, I married well!

Hats off to those of you who put time and effort into gardening, not just in the planting, but also in the caretaking. That’s where I get off track. I can start well by selecting young plants with great potential and placing them in the ground; but, then I seem to turn my focus to other things and the maintenance suffers, leaving me with plants that don’t meet their full potential, if they survive at all. Not to mention the weeds.

No sooner do I clear an area then I turn around and new unwanted sprouts are working fast and furiously to take over. I’m left with a mental battle: get in there and fight, cry for help, or declare defeat and let the weeds take over. My husband, on the other hand, blends wisdom, patience and determination to achieve the results I want but don’t accomplish myself. He knows how to deal with those weeds and not let them rob us of the pleasure the plants can bring.

A recent devotional has been lingering in my mind since I read it, creating a great visual as I consider God’s design for our lives. Picture, if you will, our hearts as a garden with God as our Master Gardener. When we accept his invitation and develop a personal relationship with him, he begins planting seeds in the garden of our heart, where we live. In particular, seeds of love, joy and peace.

Unfortunately, there are weeds growing there as well: pride, worry, selfishness, doubt, guilt, unbelief. It’s God’s desire to get rid of those weeds so his seeds can grow, and that happens as we spend time with him. His light shines directly into our heart, nourishing the seeds he planted while prompting the weeds to shrivel up. That process happens also when we face challenges in our lives. The more we turn to him and choose to rest in the light of his love for us and his promises to guide our steps and guard our hearts, the more those weeds die away, making room for his love, joy and peace to root deeper and grow stronger.

If we’re going to win the battle with the weeds in our gardens, we need to take steps to prepare the soil, choose healthy plants and then tend to the garden with time and nourishment, removing any weeds that would crowd our plants and limit their growth. ‘Same with the garden of our heart. We need to ask God to prepare us for the seeds he wants to plant. Then we need to look for weeds that might crop up and ask him to shine his light in such a way that those unwanted weeds will shrivel up and die away, leaving us with the beauty and fruit he designed for us to enjoy and to share with those around us.

I don’t seem to have much success when I tackle gardening on my own; but, I do believe if we’ll consult with a Master Gardener and know we have the best quality seeds, and if we’ll plant in the direction to capture the light and not let the weeds take over, who knows what might grow in my garden - and in yours?

A Sight to Behold--by Nancy Williams

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:05:00 -0500

I traveled to California recently with friends to attend a writers conference, excited to be spending time with some great authors and editors. The flight was smooth and we made our way quickly from San Jose to the conference center near Santa Cruz. I grabbed a few quick glances at the scenery as we made our way over the mountain, but our focus was primarily on our goals and objectives for the upcoming four days that would be packed with workshops and meetings.
We quickly checked into our cabin, picked up our materials and headed straight to the first session. Soon I settled into the routine that would fill my days there and then began to look around at my surroundings. Awesome. Tranquil. Majestic. Alive. There we were, nestled in the midst of towering redwoods and a terraced landscape filled with lush greenery - a wonderful playground for artists and photographers as well as birds and butterflies. From the stately trees that seemed to nearly touch the clouds, to the Camilla bushes overflowing with pink blossoms, down to sprigs of playful wildflowers peaking out of the rocks along the creeks and winding paths. Spring was indeed making a grand entrance there in the small hillside community of Mount Hermon.
I attended some great workshops and enjoyed opportunities to network with other writers and editors; however, I found myself stealing a few moments here and there to slip away and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. All too often, we get so caught up in the tasks at hand, we miss the beauty that’s around us. How glad I am that I didn’t let that happen there. Watching the sky change from the morning sun’s rays that pierced through the trees to the clear blue of midday and on to the evening dusk as stars scattered across the night sky, I found myself dwelling on phrases from Psalm 8. It’s a song of praise for our place in God’s creative handiwork.
“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. You made him ruler over the works of your hands; you put everything under his feet: all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
The conference proved to be the great experience I expected, and before we knew it, we were on the airplane heading back to Houston. My carry-on was overflowing with reading material, more than enough to keep me occupied during the flight. I began the journey, intent on getting things accomplished; but then I glanced out the window and saw mountains that looked as if they’d been dipped in white chocolate. I gazed at their majesty for a moment and then went back to the book in my hand. “I really need to finish this before we land,” or so my mental to-do list told me.
It wasn’t long before my eyes wandered back to the window, this time taking in the view of canyons carving their way through the rocky terrain of the Southwest as the sun’s late afternoon rays lit up the terra cotta cliffs. Breathtaking. Again, I found myself caught up in the awe and wonder of God’s creative hand at work. This time, my book could wait.
I arrived home and barely unpacked before heading to the hill country where I enjoyed the bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush emerging across the rolling landscape of central Texas. Once again, nature beckoned me to pause from the tasks of life to be still, breathe some fresh air and soak up the beauty before me – gifts given for us to enjoy and care for.
Oh, may we always take time in the busyness of life to look around and find pleasure in the work of God’s hands.

Nancy Williams, LPC is a licensed counselor, life coach and speaker in Kingwood. Send your comments or questions to her at www.nancywilliams.net.

Growing Season Requires Preparation, Trust and Time--by Nancy Williams

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:04:08 -0500

The calendar says we can expect the official arrival of spring on March 20th; however, if you look around you’ll see signs of the new season already in place. The temperature is creeping up on the thermometer, as the sun takes longer to set in the evenings. Only a few winter clothes remain on the clearance racks as the latest in swimwear is making a debut. Ball players are swinging their bats in preparation for a new season as neighbors step outside to reconnect with each other. Gardeners are beginning to revitalize their yards, replacing plants that didn’t survive winter’s chill and pruning those that did.

Pruning the plants: I’ve been told it’s important. My husband - the family gardener - has explained to me the significance of this annual process. Approaching the plants with sharpened clippers, he carefully examines each one to determine its state of health and potential for growth. Then he proceeds to cut. Oh, it’s not just a little nip here and a tuck there. He cuts, and cuts, and cuts again. I tolerantly stand by and observe this ritual, trying to be supportive of his dedication to grooming our yard and providing such beautiful blooms throughout the spring and summer. However, I have a difficult time when he’s pruning the plants, even though I’m certain he means well.

Knowing my struggle, he patiently tolerates my complaints that he may be too aggressive with those clippers as he explains the purpose of this procedure once again. I just know what I see. There before me are plants that once were tall, mature-looking, well-formed specimens. Having demonstrated their productive capabilities, they’ve now been stripped of their tender limbs right down to the main arteries that give them life and hope for the future. Beside them lay once prolific branches now slated for the trash pile. There we stand, side by side, my husband with a sense of accomplishment and me with a sense of bewilderment.

Then we wait. Now, my husband knows patience does not always come easily for me; so, with all the empathy he can muster, he gently turns my attention from a past loss to a future possibility. We begin to talk about the potential for these plants and recall past pruning that provided us with beautiful, fragrant flowers. Reality reminds us though that it will take time, patience and attention to details. We’ll need to fertilize, water, and pay attention to how the sun will greet the plants each day. We must watch for any unexpected last minute dips in the thermometer and protect tender new growth from the March winds. Once again, I’m reminded that my role is to do what I can, to trust in my master gardener and to wait for the results to come.

Recently, I read the story of the prophet Habakkuk in the Bible’s Old Testament. As I understand, this man saw his society crumbling around him, so he turned to God with his complaints and waited for Him to respond. The answers he received, however, caused him even deeper distress and perplexity. He was shocked and frightened at first but then resigned himself to worship God and trust Him, no matter what. Habakkuk didn’t understand God’s ways but he acknowledged God’s wisdom, goodness and power. He drew strength and found joy as he waited. Listen to his words found in Habakkuk, chapter 3.

“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.”

While I wait for new buds on the bushes in my yard and answers from God for concerns in my life, I’ll take a tip from Habakkuk and find joy in my relationship with my husband who tends the garden and with God who tends my life as I wait to see what unfolds in the days to come. Perhaps Habakkuk’s approach can be a source of encouragement to you as well as you journey through this season.

Be encouraged.

A Sentiment Designed to Linger--by Nancy Williams

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:02:57 -0500

It’s almost here: the day greeting card distributors have been anxiously waiting for. The day when 1 billion cards will be exchanged. That’s right: 1 billion cards, according to the Greeting Card Association. Second only to Christmas (when 2.6 billion cards are sold annually), Valentine’s Day is THE day for sending expressions of love. Cards, candy, flowers, special meals, balloons, gifts, hugs, hands gently clasped, tender words spoken - gestures conveying the stirrings of our hearts. It’s a special day when, as the song says, “love is in the air.”

Everywhere we turn, we’re bombarded with red hearts in all shapes and sizes as we find the air filled with the sweet fragrance of floral bouquets. We hear the giggles of little children exchanging valentines. We catch a glimpse of two young lovers, savoring a romantic meal as they share the hopes and dreams of their future; then turn to notice the twinkle in the eyes of a couple who has shared many valentines together. We join last minute shoppers in search of the proper expression of our sentiments, hoping to find that ‘perfect moment’ to express our love to our special valentine.

February 14th has become a day set aside to focus on love – what it means to have it and how we can share it with others. Although we tend to think of the day’s celebration primarily in romantic terms, it can also provide an occasion to reach out to family and friends, people who hold a special place in our lives. To share out of the bounty of God’s love for us. Not only does he grace us by filling our hearts with his love, he charges us to become his vessels, pouring out that love into the hearts of those around us.

So, we’ve set this special day aside to do just that, share love with others. And yet, that challenge to be a vessel of God’s love, is not intended for one date on a calendar, but for each day of our lives.

Oh, I know we realize that in principle. We mean well. Even the greeting card distributors recognized that need and now have expressions of love and well wishes for any day. The cards are there. The need to express that sentiment is there. It just seems the pages on the calendars of our busy lives turn so quickly. We focus on the tasks before us and don’t stop to think about the people in our lives that need a special touch of that love. And, not just on special occasions.

Then we talk to a friend or co-worker who has lost someone close and we’re reminded that we need to seize the moments before us while we have them. We hear their cautionary words: “Don’t miss an opportunity to express love. You just don’t know what your future will hold. Make time and give attention to those people who hold a special place in your life.” They’re right: we don’t know what tomorrow will bring. Oh, we have good intentions about how life will unfold and relationships will fit in.

“When I get more ahead in my job, I’ll slow down and spend more time with my family and friends.”
“When I’m not so busy...”
“Once the dust settles…”
“When I’m not so tired…”
“I know I need to...”
“Someday…”

How important it is that we capture the opportunities to express love to those around us. Our love can make itself known in many ways - not just with a card, a gift, a kiss or a hug, but also with kindness, patience, gentleness, compassion, unselfishness, honesty, forgiveness, endurance. It shows up when we smile, when we offer a helping hand and when we give our time and attention. It’s even expressed when we take care of ourselves and become a healthier partner, parent and friend.

May we let the sweet aroma of this season of love linger in our hearts and minds as we take time to celebrate God’s amazing love for us and then share it with those around us - each day.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Nancy Williams, LPC is a licensed counselor and life coach in Kingwood. Send questions or comments to Nancy at www.nancywilliams.net.