The early months of this year brought major challenges, as well as blessings, for many folks. They certainly brought many unique challenges and blessings for me.
We live through series of highs and lows. We need the good times, but with them come challenges that teach and build faith.
People talk about escaping from reality when times get tough, but how about turning that around? Why not "escape into reality" instead? By escaping into reality, we can begin to see those highs and lows for what they are.
So where do we find that elusive venue called reality, and how can we be sure we're escaping into it rather than from it? Here are some clues.
Reality is found in many very ordinary things. We hear it in a grandparent's gentle voice and feel it in a child's big warm hug. We also experience it in compassion during adversity and see it in thrilling visions for the future. However, it is easy to confuse self-limiting beliefs with reality.
Several years ago, I had a huge goal for a fund-raiser to help a local cancer victim and his family. Someone said to me, "Get real! You can't possibly do that." I smiled and said, "You're right. It seems like a lot, and it would be tough doing it alone. But I am certainly real, so if you'll help lead this, we could do even more." We did outdistance our goal because we invited enough people to "get real" about a worthy cause.
Escaping into reality can also uncover more of the happiness hiding in life's shadows. In other words, we can view situations from perspectives of love rather than fear.
We can create visions of hope based on new behaviors rather than regret based on past mistakes. We can look beyond appearances to find more love and abundance in every aspect of our lives. The vision of a goal must become as tangible a reality in the mind and heart as if you had reached out and touched it with your hand.
Begin by giving thanks for all you have now. Just for a moment, imagine you are a child discovering newness in everything. Then fast-forward with a child's faith, honoring what you intend to accomplish in your lifetime.
An anonymous author wrote, "Happiness lies for those who cry, who hurt, who have searched, and who have tried, for only they can appreciate the importance of the people who have touched their lives."
God has blessed us with a treasure trove of reality: His unending love for us. Love is the one true reality, and when your feelings and motives are based on love rather than fear, you'll know your escape was successful. Share the reality of God's love with someone who needs encouragement today.
Looking and listening for the many small miracles in your life will reveal what is actually possible. Do you need some time away? Escape into reality today. The Creator's love will guide every step you take.
© Copyright 2005 by Steve Brunkhorst. All rights reserved. Reprinted from Achieve! 60-Second Nuggets of Inspiration bringing great stories, motivational nuggets, and inspiring thoughts to help you achieve your top potential. Get the next issue by visiting http://www.AchieveEzine.com
![]() Google News Updated : Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:58:10 GMT Migraine-hit Janet Jackson to resume US tour - Reuters
Reuters - By Alex Dobuzinskis LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A rare form of migraine forced Janet Jackson to cancel several dates on her Rock Witchu concert tour but she planned to return to the stage on Wednesday in Washington, DC, her manager said. Jackson was laid low by migraines Janet Jackson: She's Baaaaack* Publ.Date : Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:02:47 GMT Obama’s spending how much on ads? - Christian Science Monitor
Christian Science Monitor - By Jimmy Orr | 10.15.08 It’s been a week of non-surprises thus far. Dallas Cowboys cornerback Adam “Pacman” Jones has been suspended - again. McCain calls for 'voter fraud' inquiry A stolen election? Publ.Date : Wed, 15 Oct 2008 16:03:33 GMT Hurricane Omar gains strength and nears Puerto Rico - Reuters
Reuters - By John Marino SAN JUAN (Reuters) - Hurricane Omar strengthened on Wednesday as it bore down on Puerto Rico and the small islands of the northeastern Caribbean, and could be a "major" storm by the time it reaches them, US forecasters said. Omar on the Move. Paloma Next? Hurricane Omar heads for US Caribbean islands Publ.Date : Wed, 15 Oct 2008 16:12:36 GMT Polls: McCain forced to play defense in some red states - CNN
CNN - HEMPSTEAD, New York -- New polls out Wednesday in some crucial states that could decide the race for the White House suggest Sen. John McCain is having to defend himself in areas that once were reliably Republican. Union sues over policy banning political material at polling places Pollsters say odds of McCain winning election 'incredibly remote' Publ.Date : Wed, 15 Oct 2008 16:34:00 GMT AMR Plan to Buy 787s Will Update Fleet, Bolster Boeing Program - Bloomberg
Bloomberg - By Susanna Ray and Mary Schlangenstein Oct. 15 (Bloomberg) -- AMR Corp.'s American Airlines said it may buy as many as 100 Boeing Co. AMR overcomes fuel costs to squeeze out small profit AMR 3Q Net Down 74%, To Buy Up To 100 Dreamliners Publ.Date : Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:24:10 GMT It's officially over: Madonna and Guy Ritchie are divorcing - New York Daily News
New York Daily News - BY LEO STANDORA Madonna's marriage to Guy Ritchie really is kaput , her rep told the Daily News on Wednesday. "Madonna and Guy Ritchie have agreed to divorce after 7 l/2 years of marrige," Liz Rosenberg said in a statement. Video: AP Exclusive: Madonna, Guy Ritchie to Divorce It's Official: Madonna And Guy Ritchie To Divorce Publ.Date : Wed, 15 Oct 2008 14:56:56 GMT Jerry Jones exposed as gutless by Goodell's ruling - FOXSports.com
FOXSports.com - by Ian O'Connor Ian O'Connor is the author of the New York Times bestseller "Arnie & Jack: Palmer, Nicklaus, and Golf's Greatest Rivalry," which Kirkus Reviews calls an "exemplary sports history. Video: Dallas' Adam Jones Suspended Again Give Cowboys credit for not counting on Adam 'Pacman' Jones too much Publ.Date : Wed, 15 Oct 2008 16:52:30 GMT Website Traffic Promotion |
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