Walking in the rain.

Though tempted to stay inside where it is warm, cozy and dry, I forced myself out for a walk this morning. The sprinkles turned to rain drops rather quickly and I found myself rushing to get home. I was prepared to get wet, so why was I in such a hurry? Another walker came along and reminded me that this day is beautiful and perfect for a walk. His point: It's all in how you look at it. So, I slowed my pace, enjoyed the rain on my face and listened to my music. Not long after, I realized that this was just what I needed. To see and smell the rain washing everything clean, just as God's grace washes over me and cleanses me daily. With each drop I felt as if they were kisses from above, reminding me that He is right here with me, through rain or shine, lovingly leading me. I forgot just how much I love walking in the rain.

Praise you in this storm

This is so hard to do. But, It is my goal! :)

Stepping out of the boat.

i was reading in Matthew chapter 14 this morning about Peter's venture out of the boat to join Christ on the water. Peter. You know, the one called the "Rock." The one who would lead the church. The one who doubted and began to sink. That one! I am afraid to step out of the boat. I'm afraid I will sink. I'm afraid I will fail. I'm afraid I won't live up to other's standards. I'm afraid to give up control and walk/live explicitly in faith. What is holding me back? FEAR!!!!!
My heart understands to "not be afraid" and "do not fear." Why can't my head catch up and grasp onto that also? It is in those thoughts that I become my harshest critic and beat myself up for not having faith. There is comfort, though, in knowing that even the great Peter had his moments of fear and doubt, but stepped out of the boat anyway. I need to take the first step.

Here I go......

Changes

As my life and circumstances have changed me, I felt it was time to make some changes to my blog. With each year, new challenges and struggles have molded me and strengthened me. As I come into this new me, I don't always enjoy the means by which I am transformed, but I am grateful for the out come. I am not who I was last year. I am not who I was five, ten or twenty years ago. I am better! I am more confident in my faith, in myself and in my place in this world.

It is not easy letting go of my "old" self, and it's a constant struggle. I need to break my habits and modes of operation. I don't want to be stuck, I want to be free. I don't want people to say "that's typical Allison," I want people to say "Wow! She is so different, and I can't wait to know more."

None of these changes are of my own doing. I give God all the glory and praise! Without Him, I would remain the sad and lonely sinner without any hope.