In a fast-paced and demanding world, it's easy to become overwhelmed and lose sight of our own needs and well-being. We often find ourselves putting others before ourselves, whether it be family, friends, or work responsibilities. While caring for others is important, it is equally essential to prioritize ourselves and choose self-first. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of putting yourself at the top of your priority list and the transformative effects it can have on your mental, emotional, and physical health. Self-care is not selfish—it is a fundamental aspect of maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life. When we neglect our own needs and constantly give to others, we risk burnout, resentment, and a sense of depletion. By choosing yourself first, you are acknowledging your worth and taking responsibility for your happiness and well-being. Setting boundaries is a crucial part of choosing self-first. It involves recognizing your limits and learning to say no to things that do not serve you or align with your goals and values. Boundaries protect your time, energy, and emotional well-being, allowing you to prioritize what is truly important to you. Practicing mindfulness is another powerful tool in choosing self-first. Mindfulness involves being aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations in the present moment without judgment. By incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine through meditation, deep breathing, or other techniques, you can cultivate a deeper connection with yourself and tune into your inner needs and desires. Choosing self-first also requires cultivating self-compassion and treating yourself with kindness and understanding. It means letting go of perfectionism and unrealistic expectations and embracing your flaws and imperfections. By practicing self-compassion, you can build resilience, self-esteem, and a sense of inner peace. Ultimately, choosing self-first is about honoring your authentic self and living in alignment with your true desires and values. It involves listening to your intuition, following your passions, and making choices that prioritize your happiness and well-being. When you choose yourself first, you are better equipped to show up as your best self in all areas of your life—whether it be in your relationships, career, or personal growth. So, I encourage you to reflect on how you can start choosing yourself first today. Take the time to assess your needs, set boundaries, practice self-care, and listen to your inner voice. Remember, you are worthy of love, care, and attention—and by choosing yourself first, you are taking a powerful step towards a more fulfilling and balanced life. Prioritize yourself, and watch as your relationships, work, and overall well-being flourish as a result. Remember, choosing self-first is not a one-time decision, but a continuous practice that requires dedication and commitment. Start small, be patient with yourself, and celebrate each step you take towards putting yourself at the top of your priority list. You deserve it. Choose yourself first. Your happiness, health, and fulfillment depend on it. ~Memory
0 Comments
Breaking Through Boundaries to Manifest Your Deepest Desires...In life, we often encounter barriers and limitations that hold us back from reaching our full potential. These boundaries can be physical, mental, emotional, or societal, and they can prevent us from living our best lives. However, breaking through these boundaries is essential for personal growth and transformation. In this blog article, we will explore the importance of challenging limitations, pushing past obstacles, and stepping outside of our comfort zones to embrace new possibilities and achieve our goals.
The Power of Self-Discovery: One of the first steps in breaking through boundaries is self-discovery. By understanding our strengths, weaknesses, fears, and aspirations, we can identify the areas where we are being held back and begin to address them. Self-reflection and introspection are powerful tools for uncovering limiting beliefs and behaviors that may be keeping us stuck. By gaining clarity about who we are and what we want, we can start to break free from self-imposed constraints and move towards a more fulfilling and authentic life. Embracing Change and Growth: Breaking through boundaries requires a willingness to embrace change and step outside of our comfort zones. It can be scary to venture into the unknown, but growth and transformation often lie on the other side of fear. By challenging ourselves to try new things, take risks, and pursue opportunities that push us beyond our limits, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities. Embracing discomfort and uncertainty is where true growth happens, and it is through these experiences that we learn, evolve, and expand our horizons. Cultivating Resilience and Determination: Persistence and resilience are key traits for breaking through boundaries. It's important to remember that setbacks and obstacles are a natural part of the growth process. Instead of giving up when faced with challenges, use them as opportunities to learn, adapt, and grow stronger. By developing a mindset of resilience and determination, you can push through adversity, overcome setbacks, and continue to move forward towards your goals. Remember, it's not about avoiding failure, but rather how you respond to it that ultimately defines your success. Building a Support Network: Breaking through boundaries can be a daunting task, but you don't have to do it alone. Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, mentors, and like-minded individuals who can encourage, inspire, and uplift you on your journey. Seek out role models who have successfully broken through their own boundaries and learn from their experiences. Having a strong support system can provide you with ~Memory Unleashing Limited Beliefs to Maximize Manifesting Potential: Part 1: Understand what Limited Beliefs Are: limited beliefs and their impact on our lives can affect our manifestation outcomes. Limited beliefs are negative or constraining beliefs that individuals hold about themselves, others, or the world around them. These beliefs often limit a person's potential, hinder personal growth, and create self-imposed barriers. Here are a few examples of limited beliefs:
These are just a few examples, but limited beliefs can take various forms and affect different aspects of our lives. Overcoming these beliefs can be challenging, but it's an essential step towards personal development and achieving our goals and or attaining manifestation. Part 2: Recognize Your own Limited Beliefs: Limiting beliefs are often deeply ingrained thoughts or assumptions that hold us back from realizing our full potential. Here are a few ways to recognize them:
Remember, recognizing limiting beliefs is the first step towards overcoming them. Once you identify these beliefs, you can work on reframing them and developing a more empowering mindset. Part 3: Explore the Origins of Limited Beliefs: Exploring the origins of limiting beliefs can provide valuable insights into understanding how and why they are formed. Here are some approaches to explore their origins:
By exploring the origins of your limiting beliefs, you can gain a deeper understanding of how they came to be and start challenging their validity. Remember, this process may be emotionally challenging, so self-compassion and support from trusted individuals can be helpful along the way. Part 4: Release Limited Beliefs for Manifesting Success: Releasing limiting beliefs is an important step towards manifesting success. Here's a general approach that can help:
Remember, releasing limiting beliefs takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and embrace a growth mindset. Surround yourself with positive influences, seek support from mentors or coaches if needed, and celebrate your progress along the way. Part 5: Building Empowering Beliefs: Building empowering beliefs is a process that requires self-reflection, awareness, and a conscious effort to reframe your mindset. Here are some steps to help you build empowering beliefs:
Remember, building empowering beliefs is an ongoing practice. It requires patience, perseverance, and self-compassion. Embrace the process of self-growth and celebrate your progress as you develop a more empowering mindset. You got this! Love you much! ~Memory 1. Set clear intentions: Clearly define what you want to manifest in your life. Be specific and focus on what you truly desire.
2. Visualize your goals: Create vivid mental images of achieving your goals. Imagine how it feels to already have what you want. 3. Practice gratitude: Express gratitude for what you already have, as well as what you are manifesting. This positive mindset attracts more abundance into your life. 4. Use affirmations: Repeat positive affirmations that align with your goals. Affirmations help reprogram your subconscious mind and reinforce your belief in manifesting your desires. 5. Take inspired action: Manifestation requires taking practical steps towards your goals. Listen to your intuition and take action in alignment with your intentions. 6. Surround yourself with positivity: Surround yourself with people, books, and resources that support your manifestation journey. Limit exposure to negativity and doubt. 7. Practice self-care: Take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Nurturing yourself increases your positive vibration and enhances your manifesting abilities. 8. Release attachment to outcomes: Trust in the universe's timing and detach yourself from the specific results. Allow space for unexpected opportunities and be open to receiving in different ways. 9. Maintain a journal: Write down your manifestations, progress, and any signs or synchronicities you experience. Journaling helps reinforce your intentions and keeps you focused on manifesting. 10. Trust the process: Have faith in your ability to manifest. Trust that the universe is working in your favor, even when you can't see the immediate results. Remember, manifesting is a personal journey, and everyone's experience may differ. Feel free to adapt these bullet points to suit your own style and preferences for your podcast. ~Memory The Truth About Fear… For years, many of us have heard of the acronym F.E.A.R standing for False Evidence Appearing Real, which resonates deeply with our daily realities. Today, as I reflect on moments of fear, it often coincides with decision-making. It's almost as if, inevitably, fear creeps in when crucial decisions must be made. Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately (as I smile and wink), it feels like God doesn't shine a neon sign of direction at those critical moments of decision-making. Boy, how I wish I could have those unmistakable signs delivered via Amazon Prime from the divine source! But, I digress. As I ponder the root of fear, I'm reminded of feeling fearful in moments of uncertainty or when stepping out of the known "comfortable" zone. It all goes back to uncertainty, doesn't it? I must admit, I don't possess a magical solution for overcoming fear. However, I've found it incredibly empowering to confront my most feared moments and realize that I not only survived but emerged unscathed. Procrastination, I've discovered, often masks deep-rooted fears. So, I've been challenging myself to face them head-on. Yes, for me, it's about completing that book and bracing myself for what comes next. It may sound absurd, but that's one of my secrets. Now, here's the kicker. I've noticed that my fear sometimes stems from unfamiliarity. Take, for instance, the daunting task of creating banners on PowerPoint, which initially left me feeling timid and afraid. I hesitated because I was clueless about navigating PowerPoint for such creations. However, necessity truly is the mother of all invention. Instead of shelling out money, I turned to YouTube tutorials, followed the instructions, and voila! It was a game-changer! Discovering my ability to tackle this seemingly insurmountable challenge was incredibly empowering. So, to all those grappling with fear, remember this: your fears may not be as trivial as mastering a new computer skill. Your fears might hinge on life-altering decisions. But here's a nugget of wisdom I can share — confront that fear head-on, seize it by the throat (figuratively, of course) and ring it tight until it dissipates. Okay, maybe not literally. Instead, let's harken back to Nike's iconic slogan: JUST DO IT! Take the plunge, make those bold and scary decisions that keep you awake at night. Con front the person you've been hesitant to approach, ask for that promotion, skydive, launch that business, elope! Whatever it is that gives you pause, conquer it with boldness. I can assure you, the liberation that comes with just doing it is unparalleled. So, as you navigate through moments of fear and hesitation, remember to embrace the unknown, challenge yourself to step outside your comfort zone, and face your fears head-on. Just like ripping off a Band-Aid, sometimes the best approach is to take a deep breath and dive right in. After all, as the saying goes, fortune favors the bold. Just do it. ~Memory Picture: Leighann-Blackwood Via Unspalshed
The Most Uncomfortable Thing...
The topic may seem straightforward with a simple period at the end, but let me delve deeper. It has been a journey, one that I never anticipated. If someone had hinted to me in the past that my current situation would manifest itself, I would have dismissed it entirely. However, such is the unpredictability of life, no matter how hard we strive to maintain a sense of control. In the past, I navigated my life cautiously, avoiding situations that made me uncomfortable. I used to pray fervently to God, asking to shield me from any form of struggle, as the mere thought of it terrified me. This fear stemmed from my incessant desire to micromanage every aspect of my life. I believed that staying ahead, working tirelessly, and improving my lifestyle would shield me from ever experiencing hardship. Little did I know, life had a lesson in store for me â a revelation that shattered all my preconceived notions. The very struggle I feared so deeply came knocking at my door, plunging me into a state of anxiety and sleepless nights. As I grappled with this unfamiliar territory, it felt like my life had spiraled into chaos, devoid of direction or purpose. (Fun fact: I walked away from a fifteen-year career.) I clung to my toxic career out of fear of facing hardships, only to realize that struggle was merely a construct of my mind â an excuse that held me captive in a familiar yet stifling environment. Stepping into the unknown seemed far scarier than clinging to the comfort of the known, as they say, "comfort breeds contentment." But stepping out of that comfort zone was the best decision I ever made. Two Decembers have passed since I embraced discomfort, and the journey has been simultaneously terrifying and liberating. By replacing fear with a spirit of surrender and allowing life to flow naturally, I've discovered a newfound sense of freedom. I realized that what I feared most was not my circumstances, but rather my own resilience when faced with the unknown. In the midst of uncertainty, I've come to cherish the blessings that surround me. I've found peace and love in the simplicity of life, unburdened by the materialistic desires that once clouded my judgment. Being uncomfortable has pushed me beyond my limits, unveiling hidden strengths and superpowers I never knew I possessed. Remember, discomfort is the realm of growth and transformation. Embrace the unfamiliar, confront your fears head-on, and watch yourself thrive in ways you never thought possible. â~Memory For those unfamiliar with timeshares, let me give you a quick overview. A timeshare typically involves multiple individuals sharing ownership of a property for various periods throughout the year. Depending on whether the property is private or public, it could be shared by different families. For example, imagine a condominium in the hills of Hawaii shared by four or five families. Each family books specific dates for their vacations, ensuring that they do not overlap and respecting each other's scheduled time. In this scenario, each family has designated seasons for their stays in the condominium. The key to successful timesharing is avoiding conflicts and ensuring each family's privacy and enjoyment. The analogy of a timeshare raises the question of why some people allow themselves to be treated as such. To succeed in life, one must take full ownership (Accountability) and control of their time. Your time is precious, and you should prioritize your own dreams and aspirations over others' demands. I have personally experienced the struggle of balancing my writing and speaking aspirations with external obligations. Despite my dedication to my craft, I found myself stretched thin by outside commitments, leading to a loss of passion and fulfillment. Through meditation and introspection, I realized the importance of reclaiming control over my time to pursue my true calling with vigor. Today, as I sit in my studio writing this, I am filled with joy and contentment. By prioritizing my writing goals and nurturing my speaking platform, I have found true fulfillment in following my destiny. I have learned the invaluable lesson of managing my time wisely and not allowing others to detract from my purpose and destiny. Remember, you are the master of your own time. Do not allow external influences to dictate how you spend your days. Embrace your calling and passions wholeheartedly, regardless of others' understanding or support. Your success and fulfillment depend on your ability to prioritize what truly matters to you and to pursue your dreams with unwavering dedication. Trust in your purpose and embrace your destiny with confidence and conviction. ~Memory I'm popping in quickly to share a dose of Vitamin M–that much-needed Motivation! Today, I want to offer you a glimpse into what keeps me pushing towards my personal goals and dreams. While I'm still a work in progress, there's one belief that propels me forward: in moments of doubt, I declare aloud into the universe that I aspire to be "The once was that became." I vocalize my desires with conviction, declaring statements like, "I want to be the once was an aspiring writer who became a world-renowned Author and speaker," or "I want to be the once was mediocre that became the best in excellence," and "I want to be the once was single girl who became a great wife," and so on. Insert your own aspirations after the word "became" and watch the magic unfold. What you speak into existence into the universe and believe in reverberates back to you from the universe. It's easy to lose sight of our dreams and goals when faced with the challenges of today or the shadows of the past. But I urge you not to give up on your aspirations. Remember, setbacks are not permanent roadblocks; they are steppingstones to your comeback. Stop dwelling on yesterday's struggle. Start focusing on the promises of tomorrow. Today, I challenge you to take hold of yourself, shake off any self-doubt, and make a promise: from this very moment, embrace the opportunities of today and eagerly anticipate the promises of tomorrow. You are not defined by your past; you are the architect of your future. Embrace the regal essence within you, waiting to reclaim its rightful throne. Your empire awaits, and your legacy yearns to narrate the tale of a "once was" who Became . Let your story be one of transformation and triumph. ~Memory For those of you that might not know… I have been writing for about six years and in those years I have felt the growth in my writing as each year has turned, I have felt myself being pushed to uncomfortable measures within my writing and the spirit man in me has felt it drawing me close to Gods lessons in my life but the flesh man has questioned my calling in moments of weakness’s because when I tell you that I am not worthy of being a writer-I mean it…(I am not insecure in my calling) but most times than least I am overwhelmed with the goodness of God’s favor upon my life that every now and then I look up and say…“are you sure-God?” It is often hard for me to really explain… (if you knew me before God you would think they were lies or rumors because even I can’t grasp God’s transformation over my life let alone the gift) and how God’s mercy’s, Love, compassion and greatness is given me a gift I never ever (literally) dreamed of… I thank God for all He does and continues to do for me… I wanted to share with you a small win of my 3rd but first to be edited and soon published novel… I wrote this book from the depth of my heart and soul through God and I gave it my best and even though I did not make the final number one I made the finalist (my small win) position among tons of competitors… which means a lot to me and is assurance for anyone that ever questioned what God has called you for…believe God and He will lead you through it, count every little win because one day-soon they too will be one big win…see you at the finish line. P.S. I can NOT wait for you to read this dynamic novel…not because I wrote it but because I was truly blessed from start to finish. The Sameness Life of Nandi coming to a store near you soon. Life is a bittersweet journey, with both sweet and bitter moments that offer valuable lessons along the way. As I contemplate my legacy and how I will be remembered, I am filled with a sense of curiosity and reflection. Though I am not yet ready to depart from this earth, I ponder the imprint I will leave behind. I aspire to be remembered as an inspirer of life, hope, and love, as these gifts have been graciously bestowed upon me by my creator. My deepest desire is to be the catalyst for positive change in someone's life, to breathe new life into their fading dreams, hope, and joy, drawing inspiration from the transformative power in my own life. I long to uplift and inspire others on a grand scale before my time on this earth comes to an end. Perhaps one day, my nieces, nephews, and future generations will hear tales of this woman who sought to leave a lasting impact on the world—a memory of Memory. I strive to be remembered as a woman who faced challenges with courage, who overcame adversities, and whose words continue to resonate even in her absence, guided by life's strength. In the end, my legacy is not defined solely by my accomplishments or accolades, but by the lives I touch, the hearts I inspire, and the lasting impact of my words and deeds. As I continue on my journey, I hope to leave behind a legacy of love, hope, and inspiration that transcends time and lives on in the hearts of those I have touched. Will you remember me? Can you remember me? Shall you remember me? For what's life? But a great Memory... ~Memory Being in a leadership role for over 10 years has provided me with invaluable insights and lessons that I believe are essential for anyone looking to advance in their career or become a standout employee. In this post, I'll share some of these key learnings and offer practical tips to help you get closer to that promotion or become the ultimate lovable employee. 1. Excuses Are a Trap: When an employee comes up with excuses, it often signifies a lack of accountability and responsibility. Instead of making excuses, it's better to acknowledge where you fell short and offer a solution. Your boss will appreciate your honesty and willingness to improve. Remember, honesty is always the best policy. 2. Avoid Arguments: Arguing with your boss rarely leads to a positive outcome. It's important to approach disagreements with respect and professionalism. By maintaining a positive attitude and being open to feedback, you can build a better working relationship with your boss. 3. Patience is a Virtue: While it may be frustrating to hear information you already know repeated, it's important to be patient and respectful. Instead of pointing out that you are already aware of something, take it as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding and show that you are engaged and attentive. 4. Show Initiative: Initiative-driven employees who take the lead and go above and beyond are highly valued by bosses. By taking proactive steps to contribute to the success of the team and organization, you demonstrate your commitment and dedication. 5. Positive Attitude Is Key: Negativity and complaints can bring down the morale of the entire team. It's important to maintain a positive attitude and find joy in your work. If you're unhappy in your current role, consider finding a job that aligns with your passions and values. 6. Leave Drama at the Door: The workplace is not the place for personal drama. Avoid bringing your personal issues to work and focus on creating a positive and professional environment for yourself and your colleagues. 7. Listen and Learn: Effective communication involves listening as well as speaking. Take the time to listen attentively to your boss and colleagues and be open to feedback and suggestions. 8. Be a Doer: Show your commitment and work ethic by taking initiative and completing tasks efficiently. Being a reliable and proactive team member will earn you respect and recognition. 9. Solution-Oriented Mindset: Instead of focusing on problems, strive to be solution-oriented. Offer creative solutions and ideas to challenges, showing that you are a forward-thinker who can add value to the team. By implementing these tips and approaches in your professional life, you can position yourself as a valuable asset to your organization and increase your chances of advancement and success. Remember, building positive relationships, demonstrating initiative, maintaining a positive attitude, and being solution-oriented are key factors that can set you apart as a top-performing employee. In conclusion, by following these guidelines and incorporating them into your daily work routine, you can set yourself up for success and create a positive and fulfilling work environment for yourself and those around you. Make a conscious effort to prioritize your professional growth and development, and watch as opportunities for advancement and recognition come your way. Remember, with dedication, hard work, and a positive mindset, you can achieve your career goals and become the standout employee that bosses admire and value. ~Memory The soft glow of the night light cast a warm radiance upon my grandmother's humble thatched mud hut, the place that she called home. As dusk settled in, there was no need for a reminder to retreat indoors, for darkness enveloped the village like a cloak, and we knew better than to linger outside in the shadows of night. In a community where myths held sway over the people, and simplicity reigned, I, a city-raised child, found myself captivated by the tales and traditions that defined village life.
Growing up, my parents often took my siblings and I back to their rural roots during holidays, exposing us to a world far removed from our urban comforts. Initially, I viewed these visits as a form of exile, resenting the lack of modern amenities such as electricity and running water. However, as I've grown older, I've come to appreciate the wisdom and traditions of my grandmother, the simplicity of bathing in the river with my cousins, and the thrill of exploring the wilderness in search of mushrooms and firewood. One of my fondest memories of those nights in the village involved gathering around the crackling fire in my grandmother's circular mud hut. The fire, the heart of our home, illuminated our faces as we huddled together on the earthen floor. I can still picture my Gogo, her weathered hands coaxing life back into the dying embers with a gentle blow, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow. Despite the thick smoke that stung my eyes, I was entranced by the stories spun by my oldest cousin, Doca, who wove tales of mythical river gods, majestic mountains, and mystical creatures that haunted the village's dreams. Doca had a gift for storytelling, her animated gestures bringing the narratives to life as we sat spellbound by the flickering flames. From the legend of Nyami-nyami, the vengeful River-god, to the eerie tales of witches and mermaids that prowled the riverside, each story transported us to a realm of wonder and intrigue. And as the night wore on, laughter mingled with fear, creating a tapestry of emotions that only the firelight could evoke. In those moments, surrounded by kinship and tradition, I found a sense of belonging and connection to a past that shaped my roots. The dying embers of the fire marked the end of our nightly ritual, leaving behind a residue of joy, shared stories, and timeless memories. As we dispersed to our sleeping mats, the embers of the fire served as a reminder of the bonds that united us - bonds forged in the glow of the flames and the warmth of family. The night was filled with the echoes of stories, laughter, and whispered secrets, a treasure trove of moments that would stay with me long after the fire had dimmed. Looking back on those nights in my grandmother's hut, I realize now the value of tradition, storytelling, and the simple pleasures of life. The lessons I learned in those moments of darkness and light continue to guide me, reminding me of the importance of family, community, and the power of shared experiences. And though the flames may have long since faded, the embers of those nights still burn bright in my heart, a reminder of the enduring magic of storytelling and the timeless connection of family. ~Memory
There was a point and time in my life where I didn’t understand and because I didn’t understand I didn’t want to understand, but there is a point and time in my life now where I don’t have to understand because God understands and because God understands I don’t have to understand what He understands instead I will understand His word and let the misunderstood of life be understood by God as the creator of understanding and I will leave it up to Him to understand what I don’t understand. :-) *Proverbs 3:5
By MemoryBengesa.com/blog
It's times like these that I am reminded of the precious value of life. A dear friend experienced the sudden death of her husband; they’re a young couple, neither 40 years of age yet. It hurts my heart to know that there are people in the world that carry hate, unforgivness and grudges amongst each other, especially against those within their family. Now is not the time to be in such bad standing with others; my prayer for all, is that those bound to unforgiving ways choose to forgive, so they can be in right standing with the Lord. I have been there, and unforgiveness only brings pain and anger. Tomorrow is not known, call a loved one today and tell them you love them sincerely, and pick up the phone to make amends if there are individuals you don’t talk to because of what they’ve done to you. I am often reminded of Jesus, as it would be a challenging situation for any one of us to be in, but Jesus broke bread with is trader (Judas) whom he knew would betray Him. But he loved Judas all the same and never begrudged him or hated him. I love you; please release your heart from the spirit of unforgiveness and liberate your spirit. Posted by Memory Bengesa at 6:44 PM
One of my challenges early on in Christianity was trusting the Lord, and trusting the Lord’s will. After repeated mistakes I had to come to a spiritual balance within the Christian realm where I could trust God with all sincerity, and without a doubt, this is what has helped me keep my T.R.U.S.T in God. T- Taking all matters, all the time, to God in prayer. R- Respecting God's decision even if I do not like His answer for me. U- Understanding that it is God's will and not my "will-power". S- Seeking God first in all that I do, so that all else will fall into place according to God's plan for my life. T- Thanking God in advance for teaching me how to trust in Him. Dear Beloved, Trusting in God is a great recipe for Christian growth. Trust is a key foundation to opening up a lifestyle led by the fruit of the spirit. If trusting in God has taught me anything, it’s the nature of patience; I used to cast all my cares upon the Lord, then I would try and fix my cares because I was impatient. I understand now that when I take all my matters to God, I have to also relinquish full rights for God to do His thing. I literally had to start of by trusting in little things first until God got my heart to trust Him always. The key was to be honest with God in prayer, because I knew that He knew; I would pray and ask Him to help me trust Him and He always prevailed. May the good Lord bless you, and may you remember to T.R.U.S.T in God all the time! Much love. Trust in the Lord and do good; so you will live in the land, and enjoy security. Take delight in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. Be still before the Lord, and wait patiently for him. (Psalm 37:3-5, 7) By Memory Bengesa For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 It has been an amazing journey, creating the book, publishing the book and now selling the book. I sometimes feel I don’t deserve God's greatness. I don’t consider myself inferior, but when I look at the faithfulness of God, I am in awe. I never, in a million years, would have imagined my life this way, let alone having the title of ‘author’. I planned a California trip to just relax, (so I thought) packed up all of my clothes and left all of my books and materials in the Midwest. The day I arrived I went with my mom to the intercessory room, where we prayed for a good hour, and we prayed for my book with the other prayer warriors. When I was leaving the room, one of the members asked if I was going to sell my book at their church and funny enough, I hadn’t planned to, because in my mind, I had left the ’author’ in the Midwest. Memory the person just wanted to spend time with family, but I suggested that if the pastor would allowed me to, I would sell some copies. So, my relaxation in California was short lived, it was back to business, God's business. Before I left St Louis I had received different price quotes from publicists, and none of them were cheap. At that point, I really felt like I needed a publicist, and this is how faithful God is: I bought my airline ticket in the summer, with no intentions of promoting my book. I had all the intention of hanging out with the family because at that time, the book was not published. Usually, I spend two weeks on average with the family, in December, as our company shuts down for 2 weeks. This time around, I did something I had never done before, I didn’t take any time off during the year. So before I bought my ticket, I added my vacation time on to the last two weeks of December, which meant that I got a whole month! I spent $350 on a roundtrip ticket, the money I spent on the ticket has also added to my value of being in California as a published author. Even though I had not planned on being in the role of author for the month of December, God had other plans. I cannot begin to explain to you the doors that have opened up since I have been here, and the opportunities of presenting my book, signing and selling it that have come. Funny thing was, I wasn’t aware that it would happen like this, but now I am being invited to banquets, churches, and events to talk about my book. When I actually received money for the first copy I sold, my face was priceless, I was in shock that it is really happening! The moral of the story is: I realized that God had a purpose of writing over my life. The fact was, I tried to give myself a break for the month of December without consulting God. God still had work for me to do, even in California! I am always in tears over everything that is happening, because I know for a fact this has always been God's vision for me. When I started to write, God kept reminding me that He would never forsake me, and when all was said and done, He brought people my way to help me out. All my stress of searching for a publicist were out numbered by my main publicist, God! God has brought more people into my life to help with the vision than money could buy. If I begin to tell you the kind of people I have been in contact with, you would not even believe it, that is how I know it is God. Brothers and sisters, God is doing a great and marvelous thing in our lives. Understand it’s always going to be His time over our time, and when His time comes, He rewards faithfully. Love you and be blessed! P.S. I received great news today, my recipe book has won its official Gourmand Award for the section it was representing, which was Zimbabwe, in the African portion. I officially get my stickers of international approval and certificate, now it will be moving to the "world’s best" category. God is faithful. By Memory As humans, we all experience moments of being overwhelmed, and I'm sure you can relate to the struggles that come with juggling multiple responsibilities and obligations. Recently, I've noticed an uptick in what I like to call the spirit of "whelm" - that sense of feeling burdened by an endless to-do list and a flurry of events to attend.
Let me set the stage for you: Picture a weekend packed with two baby showers, a birthday party, college graduation celebrations, work commitments, laundry, grocery shopping, writing deadlines, and even a mandatory continuing education test. And to top it off, I was battling a persistent cold that had left me sleep-deprived and exhausted all week long. As Friday afternoon rolled around, the weight of all these impending tasks bore down on me, triggering a palpable sense of unease. In moments like these, when the spirit of "whelm" threatens to engulf me, I've learned to hit pause, step back, and recalibrate. This particular weekend presented a unique challenge, as the personal events I was invited to, and work obligations couldn't be brushed aside. My tendency to see things through to completion, a trait that can be both a blessing and a curse, made it difficult for me to walk away from tasks midstream to combat the overwhelm. I've realized that acknowledging my limitations and seeking guidance and support are crucial steps in navigating the overwhelming tide. It's essential to prioritize tasks, assess what truly matters, and be honest with oneself about what can wait or be delegated. In this instance, I made the decision to focus solely on completing my continuing education test, recognizing that I needed to set boundaries and practice self-compassion. When faced with the spirit of "whelm," it's vital to pause, pray, and take a step back from the chaos. Engaging in activities that bring solace, such as going for a walk, reading, or reaching out to a friend, can offer a reprieve from the overwhelm. Remember, it's okay to set boundaries, communicate your limitations, and make choices that prioritize your well-being without sacrificing your integrity. In closing, I urge you to approach moments of overwhelm with grace and self-awareness. Embrace your humanity, seek clarity through prayer, and make decisions that align with your well-being and values. By honoring your boundaries and being honest with yourself, you can navigate the storm of overwhelm with resilience and wisdom. Remember, you are not alone in grappling with the spirit of "whelm," and it's through understanding and self-care that we can emerge stronger and more grounded. Embrace the journey, trust in your instincts, and know that it's okay to say no and prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. You are worthy of grace, compassion, and support as you weather the storms of overwhelm. Trust in your ability to navigate the challenges ahead and remember that you are not alone in this struggle. Stay true to yourself, honor your limits, and face the spirit of "whelm" with courage and resilience. You've got this! ~Memory |
AuthorJust a girl who likes to vent on paper! |