This p
ast Sunday I was given the opportunity to speak to Melbourne Baptist Church in Transylvania, LA. What beautiful, loving people I had the privilege to meet! These lovely people confirmed to me that Savannah is not forgotten. This was the first time that I have spoken – from the beginning – with no time nor emotional constraint. I was able to share how God went before us to prepare and massage us prior to our lives changing. Prepare us. I was able to share how specific prayers of the faithful were answered. I shared that because the faithful prayed, God is still answering our prayers and providing us comfort. To feel the love of that precious congregation was salve to my wounded soul. Again, I am so touched that people were and are impacted so greatly by my firstborn. Thank you. Next Sunday, 2/19/17, I will have the opportunity to thank and, hopefully, bless First-West in West Monroe, LA for the committed prayers and support they provided my family, and especially my dear sweetness, Savannah.
Our ray of sunshine, Isabella, is preparing, along with her cheer squad, to leave for Orlando for the UCA Cheer National Competition this weekend. This squad has worked hard…like they always do…however, this year they faced unsurmountable odds. The majority of this squad and coaches flooded with the devastating flood of 2016 that hit the Baton Rouge area. In addition to the flood, this squad faced loss, injuries, illnesses, devastation, chaos, turmoil…it seems the list goes on and on! This squad was with Isabella on a bus when I had to tell her on the phone that Friday night after a football game, most likely, the worst news she will ever hear. This squad rallied, supported, and loved my baby. This squad helps us know that Savannah will not be forgotten. These young ladies and their parents have embodied perseverance and, I dare say, they are THRIVING!
They persevere!!
I can’t get this word out of my head.
Perseverance.
Good ol’ Merriam-Webster defines perseverance as “continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition”. The Book of Stephanie would say, “Keep on, keepin’ on!”. I am also reminded to think of this past Super Bowl. I have to confess, our family likes watching football. In fact, Savannah loved football. Now we are a little weird, in that, we don’t have a favorite team … “gasp” … we just like football. This past Super Bowl, aside from the New Orleans Saints winning several years back, was one of my favorites… and not because of who was playing or entertaining at half-time. I just love a “no win” situation!!! Against all odds! I admit…I had given up hope for the Patriots. Then, to see them rally, never give up, continue the fight as though they were winning…PERSEVERED to the end! And WON! THEY THRIVED!
My husband quotes the movie, The Outlaw Josey Wales, quite often, QUITE often. “He told us to endeavor to persevere”. I think this is quite timely in my life. Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV) says, Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Yes, indeed. HE tells us to ENDEAVOR to PERSEVERE.
In line with last week’s blog, we must change our mindset. People have shared with me how they have a “can do”, a “get to” attitude now. I have precious people telling me they are seeking a thriving life. They are committed to thriving, not just surviving. Now, I want to share with you…Endeavor to Persevere! Do not give up. Thriving begins as a choice, a mind-set change; then the choice is to “stay the course”. You will be faced with obstacles. Stay focused on maintaining the mindset that this life is full of “opportunities”, NOT an endless “to do” list.
So, this week, continue to work on your mindset. Endeavor to persevere through the race set before us. Savannah never wavered in her race. She remained positive as she “endeavored to persevere”. I ask each of you to not grow weary or lose heart.
Endeavor to Persevere!
Keep Thriving!
Many blessings and much love to you!
Stephanie