FML?

I see it all the time. Every day. FML. Those three little letters make me cringe. They make me vomit inside my mouth a little bit. Between Facebook, twitter hashtags and texts, I'm sure most of us that are plugged into social networking see it pretty often.

Here is the thing. I get that it is an expression.  And for some, just an over exagerrated expression of disdain for your life or that particular moment. I understand that we all have crappy days. And sometimes it seems like we get stuck in a cycle of crappy days. I've been there and I understand. But to say FML, even jokingly? And for those of you who live in a cave and don't know what it means - google it.

I will explain why it bothers me so much. First of all, life is precious. God gives us each day as a gift, if you choose to treat it as such. If you have the FML attitude every day, I can assure you - your life will be sucktastic.  One thing that I have learned in my 34 years on earth is that your attitude can greatly influence the direction of your day. It cannot control everything, but if you choose to focus on the good things, it does make a difference.

Philippians 4:8
8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.

I think if we take that scripture to heart, it would really make a difference on how we view the things in our day to day life. 

After losing two people very dear to me within the past 5 years, I understand that life is precious. After seeing how fast my baby is growing, I am reminded that life really does go by quickly.  And those things that seem so terrible really won't be all that bad tomorrow. It might even take a few months.

Another reason FML really bothers me. Probably the main reason.  Our problems are so small in comparison to the daily worries of so many. The majority of the people that are able to read this blog have a roof over your head, a car to drive, food in your kitchen, clean water, clothes on your back with extra to spare...you get my point. I mean, really? Really? 

I realize that some may think that I'm being overly sensitive, and that is fine. Maybe I am. Usually I'm pretty laid back, but for some reason, this really gets to me. We all have opinions. But I'm just asking you to think before you write those three short letters. Is it really that bad? 

Samuel

I was in such a dark place.
I was drowning in a sea of sadness.
My life felt so empty, so meaningless.
I found out about you and I cried. 
How on earth could you fit into our lives?
Seriously, this had to be a joke. 
Then I accepted you. Embraced you.
I savored the kicks and hiccups.
I imagined things would be different.
I thought your entrance would be healing, but alas I was wrong.
I will never forget we thought we lost you. You scared the shit of out me.
How could someone I never knew I wanted be taken away from me?
But then you came and you were perfect.
Tiny and perfect. 
And my happiness was still far away.
Your presence brought joy to my life, but I still had so much healing to do.
Then as the days passed, I allowed myself to become enamored of you.
It all makes sense now.
God gave me you.
Now, don't get me wrong, I know your purpose is much greater.
But God gave me you.
He gave me you so that I could genuinely smile again.
You have taught me that it is acceptable to love despite having experienced such loss. 
You were a tiny vessel sent to restore our family's joy.
And the healing commenced. 
Your name means "God has heard".
And yes, He heard.
He heard my heart. He knew I needed you.
You are my ray of sunshine.
I love you Samuel. I love you.

something small might make a difference

After my pastor's message this past weekend, I absolutely have to do something. I cannot just sit here in my house passively. I came across this idea while pinning (imagine that) and just have to share it with everyone. Blessing bags  from the Kids With a Vision blog.

For the bags around here I'm thinking of doing the following:
Put everything in a gallon size ziploc bag
chapstick

packages of tissues

toothbrush and sample size toothpaste

comb

soap (although they might not have access to a shower?)

trail mix

fruit cup

granola bars

peanut butter & crackers

pack of gum

band aids

mouthwash

coins

hand wipes

warm pair of socks

hand sanitizer

deodorant

note of encouragement

Any other ideas for the Tennessee area? I'm hoping to get started on these within the next week or so with some others from my church. Who else wants to make these?