Editor’s note: In Part 1, Sarah Flowers offered these thoughts, “...here is a precursor to my list of things that I want to say to those who I’m saying goodbye to…those who are moving out of state, those who are passing milestones in their journey to adulthood and even some who have left this earthly home. I’ll think of the rest of the ‘one more things’ as I’m pulling out of the driveway and get them to you later!” Today’s blog post is her continuation of those thoughts that she wants those dear to her to always remember.
You’re going to meet a lot of new people. Some will have a positive influence on your life and some will have a negative one. The vast majority of people you meet won’t have any influence on you at all, unless you let them. What do I mean by that? Choose your friends wisely. I’ve heard it said that you are the sum total of the five people that you spend the most time with. When you are with someone, ask yourself if you enjoy being with them. How do they make you feel? If you are feeling drained rather than rejuvenated, then limit the amount of time that you’re spending with that person. The more time you spend with them the higher the chance you’ll also become a drain on those around you.
“Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.”- 1 Corinthians 15:33 NIV
“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”- Proverbs 18:24 NIV
Take risks. When you work to create something that is born out of your heart and you feel scared to put it out into the world, be brave. Be brave and do it anyway. God has given you things that He wants you to use to spread beauty and goodness in the world. And when you fail, which you will, be brave and try again. Thomas Edison is famous for saying, “I never once failed at making a light bulb. I just found out 99 ways not to make one.” It can be disheartening, but remember that perseverance has its rewards.
“Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” - James 1:4 NIV
When you meet someone, look them directly in the eye with a smile and give them a firm handshake. Take the time to speak kindly and encourage the people you meet. You do not know how big the ripple of your interactions can be.
“But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” - Hebrews 3:13 NIV
Be a good listener. When someone is talking to you, focus on them and acknowledge what they are saying instead of formulating your response. You will be surprised how comfortable people feel with someone who listens! And you may be able to learn something about the person!
“To answer before listening— that is folly and shame.” - Proverbs 18:13 NIV
Work at whatever task is at hand with a good attitude and a joyful heart. This will make your life easier and will create opportunities for you to share joy with others.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” - Colossians 3:23
My dear friend, before you go….
Love God, love others and “above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” - Proverbs 4:23 NIV
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” - Romans 8:28
Life can be both beautiful and painful at the same time. Sometimes it may seem that beauty can only be achieved through enduring some level of pain. But this life that we are living will someday come to an end and open up into a new reality where pain is no longer necessary in order to experience beauty.
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” – Revelation 21:4
ABOUT OUR BLOGGER
Sarah Flowers lives in idyllic Chadds Ford, where she is steeped in beauty and connection to the land and its history. She loves coffee and flowers and getting to know Jesus. A lifelong learner, she seeks to follow God’s plan to bring justice to the under-resourced. Sarah is a self-declared serial optimist and melodiphile; there’s always a path to the sunny side and a soundtrack for the journey! She is a mom and wife and a grateful alumna of Northwood University. Her former iterations include automotive professional and shoe diva. Sarah serves on the Deacon Team at Willowdale Chapel and is dipping her toe into podcasting!
Women's Worship Night
August 21, 7:00 - 8:30pm
Join us for a fun night of worship, prayer and dessert to kick off our fall women's groups. Women and girls of all ages across all of our campuses are invited. Feel free to bring a friend!
Our Women’s Worship Night is also an opportunity to explore the new fall women's groups and learn about ways to get plugged in. This will take place on Wednesday, August 21 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Kennett Campus. If you have questions, please reach out to Carole Hoy.