curate and celebrate

AWAKEN AND RENEW

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

REFOCUS AND DELIGHT

TRANSITIONS AND A GROWTH MINDSET: HOLDING ON OR LETTING GO.

When faced with changes in our lives, we are presented with decisions that necessitate a choice. During the decision-making process, it is crucial to consider whether we are approaching the situation from a standpoint of fear or faith. Are we holding onto the past or embracing the future? Are we stagnant or taking proactive steps forward?

Conversations with friends often reveal common themes of uncertainty and justifications. Phrases like "I feel trapped," "I am waiting to hear from God so I'm not making decisions," "My prayers seem unanswered," or "I will spend more time with God because my words for this year are comfort and peace" are frequently heard. In response, I am inclined to delve deeper into their narratives. Through these discussions, I uncover their profound struggles, childhood traumas, and paralyzing anxieties. Additionally, I discover deeply rooted habits of comfort and self-limiting behaviors.

Some individuals may express acceptance with the phrase 'it is what it is', while others advocate for improvement by believing 'it can be better'. In certain situations, some may choose to remain stagnant, while others desire progress but are unsure of how to achieve it. I found myself in similar circumstances until I made a conscious decision to take action. Last year, I received a planner that encouraged deep reflection and purposeful planning. It contained sections labeled "what worked" and "what didn't work", prompting me to assess my learnings and make necessary adjustments.

The NLT version of Hebrews 12:1 advises, "Let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance, not quitting the race God has set before us." What impedes our goal achievement, skill development, and maintaining a focus on God? To navigate life's journey effectively, we must travel lightly. Are we clinging to burdens such as distractions, disappointments, childhood trauma, unhealthy habits, unforgiveness, resentment, or bitterness? Do our values align with God's principles or with power, prestige, money, status, and pride?

At the onset of this year, I encountered the question of my next career move, a dilemma shared by some of my friends. Proverbs 20:24 NLT states, "The Lord directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way?" This verse highlighted for me the significance of taking the initial step. Without that first step, there will be no path for God to guide. I find solace in Psalm 119:105 "Your word is like a lamp for my feet and a light for my path." Even if my plans unfold differently than anticipated, I take comfort in knowing that I have a faithful and loving God who orchestrates what is best for me.

TWEAK AND NOURISH

CHEF'S DELIGHT: JAPANESE POTATO SALAD

I love how my husband's passion for cooking rubs off on me. Even though he's not a chef anymore, he still enjoys whipping up dishes on weekends. He finds his cooking inspiration from library cookbooks, his huge collection in the living room, and dining out while traveling for work. After a recent trip, he came back excited to make a delicious Japanese potato salad with spring onions and togarashi.