Guest Blogger On A Happier Note 6:51 AM You are as happy as you decide to be. Guest blog by Chelsea. “She just wants you to make money since you are 24.” Who said this? My youngest sister of course. What was she doing besides subjecting me to ageism? She was using human reasoning to define me and God’s supernatural plan for my life. It was a day like that that I wish I would have said this to her: The Purpose Pusher The sad reality is that human beings today (you and me included) tend to think that if we had money, all our problems would be solved. Now don’t get me wrong. I’ve played the lottery a few times hoping to win it big. Yet, unlike so many others, my intentions were for good. If I won the lottery, most of what I won would not be spent on myself. I would try to pay off my parents’ house, fix it up, and give them a vacation for just the two of them. I would donate the rest to help out those who need it most (charities and worthwhile people who legitimately deserve a helping hand). Of course, I believe if I won the lottery there would be enough for all this because after all, my winning the lottery would be because my heavenly Father deemed it the appropriate time for me to come into that level of a harvest. Yet, even though I’m 24 years old and without steady income, I’m happier than I ever have been in my whole life. I bet you just read that above statement and looked at the computer screen and screamed: I mean my life is far from perfect or what I deem to be perfection in my eyes but I finally feel free. I work as a freelance writer for two companies currently and I also intern with a publisher doing public relations for authors. On the anniversary of Dr. King declaring his dream in one of the most inspiring speeches of all time, I also planted a stake in the field of dreams for my life and the goals I want to achieve. One of which is to become an author of multiple best-selling novels so I launched the site in order to expand my platform as an author. Yet, it also was a way for me to create opportunity in the area (and my dream career field) of public relations. Therefore, The Smart Cookie Philes was born. Yet, in the past five months since it was launched, I’ve never seen something grow into such a fruitful venture in my life, and I have only been paid about less than $100 for any sponsored work via the site. My point is this: Money doesn’t equal happiness because happiness isn’t external; it’s 100% internal. The only plausible reason my site is becoming a booming career venture is because: Another reason is because I’ve let the joy of the Lord be my strength. Family members (God bless their little hearts) may not understand what it means to be a remote professional, a freelance writer, or even a post-graduate who still lives with her parents. Yet, that’s totally okay. Why? Because I trust God. And I choose to enjoy my life every day. I’ve been reading Joyce Meyer’s newest book, Overload, which talks about freeing yourself from the pressures of stress, and so far, I find it to be one of Joyce’s best books yet (this coming from someone who has probably read at least thirty to forty of Joyce’s other titles in the span of three years so I may be a bit biased). In it, she mentions that, And a great attitude to take with you on this journey called life is “I’m not where I need to be but thank God I’m not where I used to be. I’m okay and I’m on my way!” I may not yet be a five star publicist or a best-selling author or even the most booked freelance writer but that’s okay. I serve a God who is limitless: Genesis 18:14: Is anything too hard for the Lord? No! Numbers 11:23(The MSG): God answered Moses, “So, do you think I can’t take care of you? You’ll see soon enough whether what I say happens for you or not.” And lastly, a verse that I read and said a thousand times before just became seen with fresh eyes, Matthew 19:26: With men, this is impossible. But WITH GOD, all things are possible (emphasis mine). A key point I want you to take away from this whole piece is that you can be extraordinarily happy while living an ordinary, everyday life. Expecting life to be one long series of exciting events is setting yourself up for disappointment, which ends up increasing stress levels and stealing your joy! Decide to be content and live life as it comes. Until next time, remember: Photo credit: Google Images (Tumblr) About the author: Chelsea DeVries Jesus Lover. 24 year old witty writer/poet/blogger. The Smart Cookie. I tend to see the best in people. Hoping to defend the media's greatest targets when I become a publicist. Saint Leo University graduate. Dog lover. Daydreamer. Believer. Child-like spirit. Hugger. Flower Child. Child of the One True King Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Fashion & Style The Newest Trend in Beach Bags and Totes 8:00 AM You can't buy happiness but you can buy a cute bag. And that's kind of the same thing. All the things we need for a day at the beach—sunscreen, a beach towel, a hat, your beach reads, and much more—are usually lugged around in hefty beach bags and totes. While it can be difficult to look cute and chic while lugging a large bag around, it's not impossible. It's time for you to update your bag collection with some stylish beach bags. Loud patterns and graphics have made large bags and totes more fashionable. There is also a variety of materials that you can choose from. Also, if you play your cards right, you can take your beach bag or tote from your day at the beach straight to dinner with your friends. Say “yes” to practicality and style with DONCEL handbags The good news is that DONCEL, a handbag brand, has been making great bags, totes, and shoulder bags that can make your beach experience great while making you look stylish and polished. DONCEL bags boast of hand-crafted graphics and designs that are inspired by traditional Chinese arts. The bags have great lines and can be a great match for the different personalities of the women that wear them. DONCEL bags are made of cowhide leather and lined with polyester. This makes them unique where beach bags and totes are concerned. Cowhide leather is much more durable and sturdier than fabric, which the majority of beach bags are made of. Also, cowhide leather bags retain their shape, which comes in handy when you need to stuff a large number of things in your bag without it looking awkward and bulky. Plus, your bag will be spending long hours in the sun—cowhide leather is resistant to sun damage. A DONCEL handbag is a great and more practical alternative to your usual beach bags. Get yourself a day-to-night bag Another concern people have about carrying beach bags is how awkward they can look while carrying large bags. Also, these bags are suitable mostly for the beach. It may be inconvenient for some to switch out their bags for a night out after a day at the beach. This is why DONCEL handbags are great for people with packed social calendars. A DONCEL handbag is perfectly fitting for the beach, as well as stylish enough for a dinner at a nice restaurant or a night at the theater. The bags also come in great colors that can add a lot of pizzazz to any outfit. Since summer is here, a day at the beach may not be that far away in your future. You may already be dusting off your swimsuits, bikinis, beach towels, and flip flops. Why not take it the extra mile and treat yourself to a new tote from DONCEL? It's easy to do, too, as these bags are available online on StyleWe.com. There's a great selection from DONCEL, which features a number of intricate and exotic designs. Go on StyleWe.com today and get your newest bags and totes from DONCEL. This article was submitted by site supporter and may contain affiliate links. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Lux Thinking Aloud Write Your Feelings 8:00 AM There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. -Maya Angelou Write your feelings. Turn your feelings into stories, poetry, or a simple write up. Writing is an effective therapy for me. It speeds up healing of old and hurt feelings. Writing helps me get my much needed closure and keeps me at peace with myself. Writing helps me clear my mind. When I see my thoughts written down, I get a clearer vision of things so I know what to do next or what to stop. Thus, the birth of my other blog Dear You,. It used to be for my own personal venting out and writing therapy. Fast forward to today, I've made Dear You, a venue for unsent letters. Anyone with something to say to someone can send in their letters and I will publish it. I know how difficult it is to bottle up your feelings. It can be risky to your physical health as well. So don't. I want to help you. Don't keep your feelings to yourself. At the same time, don't lash it out to the world. Just write your feelings. Write with abandon. Write with all you have and all you are. You'll be surprised as to how light you'll feel afterwards. I'll be waiting for you. Send your unsent letters through the contact form at the right side bar of this page. See Write for Dear You, for guidelines. Linked here. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Dating 4 Clear Signs A Woman Wants to Be Approached 7:57 AM Flirting is a woman’s trade, one must keep in practice. -Charlotte Brontë How often have you had doubts about whether a girl wants you to approach her or not? Did you end up taking no action? Are you waiting for signs? It's common for men to want to see that a woman is interested before they make a move. A woman rarely initiates contact. Most of the time, the lady in her would rather give a signal that she wants him to approach her. Men often can’t decipher those signals. So Russian wives decided to help them. Here are four clear signs a woman wants you to approach her and make a move. 1. She makes steady eye contact. People maintain prolonged eye contact only if they are interested in a person. If you spot a girl and want to know whether she minds you approaching her or not, try to make eye contact. If she ignores you and turns her head in another direction, it's safe to say she is not interested. If you’re in a crowded place, look around and see if girls are trying to make eye contact with you. Here's a tell-tale sign she wants you to approach her: You look her in the eye. She looks away and then looks at you again...with a smile. Tumblr2. She's checking you out.Sometimes a woman is not really shy to make the first move. But she enjoys the thrill of waiting for the man to approach her. So she'd rather send signals. Here's a classic move: After giving you an intimate look, she'll shift the gaze to your chest. And make eye contact again.Sometimes she'll look you up and down with an approving smile, smize, or smirk.Some confident women may wink at you or bite their lips once they catch your eye. This is a sign a woman wants to be approached. An "I like what I'm seeing" and "It's time for you to take action, Romeo." statement.Wifflegif 3. She's talking through body language.Non-verbal communication is often more subtle and more powerful than verbal communication. If a woman is interested in a man, she sends him invitation signals. Sometimes unconsciously, but her body betrays her.Look at how she plays with her hair, strokes her wrist or neck, and crosses and uncrosses her legs. Pay attention to her posture...She is ready for new acquaintances if she sits or stands in an open position and her arms are not crossed. A tricky thing about body language is that one sign can mean nothing. That’s why you should look for more indicators to ensure she wants you to approach her. She could just be confident and carefree, and you're reading it wrong. But then again, you'll never know until you try. Primogif 4. She accidentally touches you.Picture this:You’re at the bar, and a woman passes by. She accidentally touches you...Even when there's plenty of room around. Well, she must really want to get your attention. She may also come closer, stand near you, and cast side glances in your direction. Closing the distance between you is another strategy. It means she's ready to be approached. She's making it much easier for you to say hello.What are you waiting for? Make a move.Random ShizzHow to tell if a woman wants you to approach her?Has a woman shown you interest in any of these ways? Or have you experienced this and thought it was a sign, but you're wrong? Don't be discouraged. Not knowing what to expect is what makes the dating world more exciting.Keep trying. And most importantly...Treat every woman with respect and dignity. Whether she verbally says "no" or demonstrates that she's not interested, give her space. Be courteous.Who knows, your good character might make her change her mind, and you'll end up hitting off.Meanwhile, watch out for the major signs that a girl wants you to approach her the next time you go out.Good luck! Article contributed by the MeetWife Dating site.This post contains affiliate links so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost to you.
Lux Thinking Aloud Unbranded Accessories, Branded Life 7:36 AM Child, you are more precious than silver. Child, you are more costly than gold. Child, you are more beautiful than diamonds. And nothing I desire compares with you. I don't mind wearing unbranded clothing or accessories. It's not like the clothes I wear and the accessories I use are tied to my self-worth anyway. My identity is not equal to the price tag of my bags or shoes. We're priceless. I am priceless. I'm worth more than the most expensive jewelry or leather in the world.My worth? No less than the Almighty's sweat, blood, and breath. Bejeweled or not, naked or clothed, I am still who I am.I am the King's daughter. That is my brand. That should be the brand we need to be wearing. Come to think of it, nobody came into this world clothed luxuriously. We were all born naked, with only our mother's fluid wrapping around our bodies. Gooey, yucky stuff is all we've got when we started on earth. So makeup, nice clothes, elegant jewelry of course they all make us look better, more presentable, cooler. I love fashion and I follow a lot of fashion and lifestyle bloggers whose sense of style I adore and admire. But I'd like to quickly reiterate that these are not the be-all and end-all of life. It makes me sad to see people buying stuff they can't afford just so they get the latest and the best according to what society dictates. Just so they feel accepted. Just so they get a sense of belonging. Just so they find their sense of being. It's okay to wear unbranded accessories, as long as your heart is pure, your intentions genuine, and your life is rightly branded. So...just like the common red carpet question goes, "Who are you wearing?"
Dating 8 Ways To Keep The Love Alive When You're Past The Romantic Stage 7:25 AM Love never dies a natural death. It dies because we don't know how to replenish its source. It dies of blindness and errors, and betrayals. It dies of illness and wounds; it dies of weariness, of withering, of tarnishing. -Anais Nin The honeymoon stage of a relationship is truly magical. The surprises, sweet gestures, and basking in each other's presence keep the happy hormones flowing. However, change happens as time goes by.In many cases, the romance begins to fade, and the frequency of dates and surprises diminishes. Even passion can dwindle. So how do you keep the love alive when you're past the romantic stage? Here are eight ways to keep the music playing! 1. Have open and honest communication.Maintaining strong and effective communication is crucial for keeping the love alive in a relationship, especially when you have moved past the romantic stage. Here are some tips to enhance communication and nurture your connection:Create a Safe and Judgment-Free Space: Foster an environment where both partners feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without fear of judgment or criticism. Instead, encourage open dialogue and active listening.Practice Active Listening: When your partner is speaking, give them your full attention. Avoid interrupting or formulating a response while they are still talking. Instead, focus on understanding their perspective and emotions. Show empathy and validate their feelings.Express Yourself Clearly and Honestly: Be transparent about your thoughts, needs, and desires. Clearly communicate your expectations and concerns. Avoid assuming your partner can read your mind or understand your unspoken needs. Instead, be open and direct in your communication.Use "I" Statements: When discussing sensitive topics or expressing dissatisfaction, use "I" statements to convey your emotions and experiences. For example, say, "I feel hurt when..." instead of blaming or accusing with, "You always..." This helps avoid defensiveness and fosters a more productive conversation.Practice Non-Verbal Communication: Communication is not limited to words alone. Pay attention to non-verbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. These can provide valuable insights into your partner's emotions and feelings.Be Mindful of Timing: Choose the right time and place for meaningful discussions. For example, avoid having serious conversations when one or both of you are tired, stressed, or distracted. Instead, find a calm and neutral environment where you can focus on the exchange.Seek Compromise and Find Solutions Together: Remember that effective communication involves finding common ground and working towards solutions that benefit both partners. Approach conflicts as opportunities for growth and understanding rather than battles to be won.Practice Regular Check-Ins: Set aside dedicated time to check in with each other about the state of the relationship, individual needs, and any potential issues that may have arisen. This can be done through regular conversations, weekly date nights, or even relationship counseling if needed.Show Appreciation and Gratitude: Express gratitude for your partner's efforts, support, and love. Acknowledge and appreciate their contributions to the relationship. Small gestures of appreciation can go a long way in nurturing love and strengthening your bond.Be Patient and Understanding: Recognize that maintaining effective communication takes effort and practice. Be patient with each other and understand that it may take time to fully understand and address each other's needs. Be willing to learn and grow together.Remember that your partner is not a mind reader, even if you share a special connection. So be willing to keep your foundation strong by communicating your needs and making your partner feel they're heard and matter. 2. Protect secrets.The value of trust is paramount in a relationship. Consider it an honor if your partner confides in you, whether it be a childhood memory, a fear, or an aspiration. Their decision to open up and share a part of themselves is a testament to their trust in you. Make it your mission to protect them when they're most vulnerable. Never use their secrets as a weapon to hurt them.These seemingly small gestures are of utmost importance and contribute significantly to the strength of your relationship even when romance is not at its peak. 3. Value commitments.Reliability and dependability are critical components of a solid relationship. So, first, let your partner know they can count on you. Then, follow through on your word in everyday situations. If you've promised to take care of something, fulfill that commitment. Something as simple as calling them when you agreed, doing your part in the household chores religiously, or keeping your date nights sacred are seemingly insignificant actions. But they can bolster the bond between partners and demonstrate reliability.4. Say sorry and mean it.Inevitably, there will be instances where you unintentionally hurt your partners with your words or actions. When this happens, it is crucial to apologize right away. Saying "sorry" is insufficient; you must genuinely feel remorse and avoid becoming defensive. More importantly, avoid committing the same mistake again. Continuing harmful behavior towards your partner after apologizing can erode trust and ultimately lead to the end of your relationship. It is essential to recognize the impact of your actions and take responsibility for them if you want to maintain a healthy and fulfilling partnership.5. Forgive.Forgiveness plays a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy relationship. If your partner has hurt you and sincerely apologizes, wholeheartedly forgive them. Holding grudges only creates further negativity and tension. Remember, we are all human; even the most compatible and compassionate individuals may have disagreements. Love keeps no record of wrongs. -1 Corinthians 13:16. Have some time apart.Maintaining a balance between time spent together and time spent apart is crucial. While it's important to enjoy each other's company to keep the love alive, having separate interests and friendships is equally vital. Maintaining individual hobbies and social circles brings freshness and excitement to the relationship. Being together constantly can lead to feelings of suffocation. However, finding the right balance and carving out quality time for each other is essential. Here are some strategies to help you achieve this balance:Prioritize and Schedule: Make spending quality time together a priority by scheduling dedicated time in your calendars. This could be date nights, weekend getaways, or simply setting aside uninterrupted time each day to connect and bond. Treat this time as sacred and non-negotiable.Communicate and Coordinate: Openly communicate with your partner about your needs for alone time or pursuing personal interests. For example, discuss and coordinate your schedules to ensure you can engage in activities or hobbies you enjoy.Respect Personal Boundaries: Understand and respect each other's need for personal space and alone time. Recognize that time apart can be beneficial for individual growth, self-reflection, and recharging. Support each other in pursuing solo activities or spending time with friends.Engage in Shared Interests: Find activities you enjoy and can do together. This allows you to bond and have quality time while engaging in shared hobbies, such as cooking, walking, or watching a series together.Encourage Independence: Encourage and support each other's individual interests and passions. Embrace the idea that maintaining a sense of self is important for a healthy and fulfilling relationship. Pursue activities or hobbies independently that bring you joy and fulfillment.Establish Rituals or Routines: Create rituals or routines that allow you to connect and spend time together consistently. This could be a weekly date night, a morning coffee ritual, or a shared activity before bedtime. These rituals provide a sense of stability and togetherness.Embrace Quality Over Quantity: It's not just about the amount of time you spend together but the quality of that time. Make the most of your time by being fully present, engaged, and attentive to each other. Focus on building meaningful connections and creating shared memories.Foster Trust and Independence: Building a solid foundation of trust in your relationship allows both partners to feel secure and comfortable when spending time apart. Trust that your partner values the relationship and respects the boundaries you establish for personal time.Regularly Reassess and Adjust: Periodically evaluate how you balance time together and apart. Check-in with each other to ensure that both of you feel satisfied and fulfilled. Adjust your routines and schedules as needed to maintain a healthy balance.7. Appreciate each other.We all seek approval and reassurance from those we love. However, appreciating each other is crucial in keeping the love alive, especially as you move past the romantic stage of a relationship. Here are some ways to cultivate appreciation:Be grateful: Take the time to express gratitude for your partner and what they do for you. Let them know how much you appreciate their efforts, support, and presence in your life. A simple "thank you" can go a long way in making your partner feel valued and loved.Focus on Strengths and Qualities: Acknowledge and appreciate your partner's strengths, talents, and unique qualities. Let them know what you admire about them and why you feel lucky to have them in your life. Celebrate their achievements and personal growth.Notice the Little Things: Pay attention to the small gestures and acts of kindness your partner does for you or others. It could be making you a cup of coffee in the morning, leaving a sweet note, or helping with household chores. Express your appreciation for these little things that often go unnoticed but contribute to the strength of your relationship.Show Affection and Physical Touch: Physical touch is vital for expressing appreciation and love. Show affection through hugs, kisses, cuddling, and holding hands. Physical contact can create a sense of closeness and reinforce your emotional connection. In addition, it will keep things spicy and exciting, igniting the embers of love even when you're past the romantic stage.Quality Time and Presence: Make an effort to spend quality time together without distractions. Put away phones, turn off the TV, and truly engage with each other. Be fully present, actively listen, and participate in activities you enjoy. This undivided attention demonstrates that you value and cherish your time together.Surprise and Delight: Plan surprises or small acts of kindness to show your partner that you are thinking of them. It could be bringing home their favorite treat, planning a surprise date night, or leaving little love notes for them to find. These unexpected gestures help keep the romance and excitement alive.Compliment and Encourage: Offer genuine compliments and encouragement to uplift your partner. Acknowledge their efforts, achievements, and personal growth. Let them know you believe in their abilities and support their dreams and aspirations.Support Each Other's Well-Being: Show appreciation by supporting your partner's physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Encourage healthy habits, listen to their concerns, and provide a safe space to express their thoughts and feelings. Be their cheerleader and source of comfort during challenging times.Celebrate Milestones and Special Moments: Take the time to celebrate important milestones, anniversaries, and memorable moments in your relationship. Create meaningful traditions and rituals that allow you to reflect on your journey together and appreciate how far you've come.Practice Active Appreciation: Make it a habit to express gratitude and appreciation regularly, not just on special occasions. Cultivate a mindset of recognizing and valuing your partner's and your relationship's positive aspects.8. Rekindle the romance.Rekindling romance is possible even when you have moved past the initial romantic stage of a relationship. Here are some ways to reignite the spark and bring back the romance:Plan Surprise Dates or Getaways: Surprise your partner with a special date or weekend getaway. Plan activities or outings that you know they will enjoy. Breaking the routine and injecting new experiences into your relationship can create a sense of excitement and adventure.Bring Back Romantic Gestures: Recall the romantic gestures you used to do early in the relationship and reintroduce them. For example, write love letters, leave sweet notes, or send romantic text messages throughout the day. Small gestures can make a significant impact in rekindling the romance.Create a Romantic Atmosphere: Set the mood for romance by creating a cozy and romantic atmosphere. Light candles, play soft music and prepare a special meal together. Transforming your space into a romantic haven can evoke intimacy and closeness.Engage in Shared Activities: Rediscover shared interests and engage in activities you enjoy. It could be taking a dance class, cooking together, hiking, or engaging in a new hobby. Sharing experiences and creating new memories can reignite the connection between you.Physical Intimacy and Affection: Prioritize physical intimacy and affection in your relationship. Kiss, cuddle, and hold hands. Make time for intimate moments and explore ways to enhance your physical connection. Physical touch can rekindle passion and desire.Prioritize Quality Time: Set aside dedicated quality time for each other. Put away distractions such as phones or work and genuinely focus on each other. Engage in deep conversations, share your dreams and aspirations, and actively listen to your partner. This undivided attention strengthens the emotional bond.Surprise Gifts or Gestures: Surprise your partner with thoughtful gifts or gestures that show you care. It could be their favorite book, a handwritten love poem, or planning a surprise outing. These unexpected acts of love can reignite feelings of excitement and appreciation.Explore New Experiences Together: Step outside your comfort zone and try new things together. Take up a new hobby, adventure, or explore a new city. The shared excitement and exploration can reignite the sense of discovery and bring back the thrill of being together.Rekindling romance takes effort from both sides. However, with time and dedication, you can reignite the flame and bring back the romance in your lives.Keep the Love AliveBoth partners seek and require validation, which can be achieved through trust and reciprocity. It's essential to recognize that this is a natural progression, as all couples experience these phases.A solid and lasting relationship is tested through various ups and downs. The pillars of respect, trust, commitment, and love are tested. Remember that romance evolves beyond candlelit dinners and boxes of chocolates and transforms into a deep sense of respect and understanding for one another.Work towards maintaining excitement and freshness in your relationship by keeping the love alive even when you're past the romantic stage.How do you keep the flame of love burning brightly in your relationship?
Faith The Sweet Fruits Of Waiting 8:00 AM Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet. -Aristotle The waiting period is the most trying, most painful and will always be the longest period in a person's life---no matter how short it may be. The Sweet Fruits Of Waiting Waiting will reveal our character. It will teach us patience, it will test our endurance, and will shake our faith. The longer the waiting, the more we will appreciate and value that which we are waiting for once it has arrived. In waiting for the Lord to answer your prayer, you will encounter His most deafening silence. I have been waiting for God to answer my prayers. Some He has already given me, others He is still not revealing. Although I admit that sometimes I want to rush things and I get impatient with Him, I know that He has my best intentions in mind. I do not have a wise answer as to why He makes us wait. I don't want to put Him in a box because He is infinite for a reason. I may not understand His purpose but I know it is for the best. Besides, isn't that why He's God and I'm human? If I understand Him, then we'll be equals. So as difficult as it may be, in my waiting, I choose to believe. In my waiting, I choose to keep on serving Him. Sometimes in my service, I see His answer and I feel His love. In my waiting, I choose to be happy because whether I am miserable or joyful, I'd still be waiting anyway. So why not wait in joy instead? The waiting has made me wiser, although not as wise as one could be. At least now I know things I did not know before. People may be laughing at me because I seem to wait in vain, but that's alright. They are not the ones I made covenant with anyway. And I know that He who made His promises to me will surely deliver. That is another great thing about waiting. Waiting has revealed to me the faithfulness of God that I would not have known had all my prayers been answered immediately. Waiting may be painful at times, but I would not change it for anything else. God would not have put me here if He thinks the other way is better for me. I trust Him.
