Here we go.....

So, over the past few weeks I have felt a strong sense of God working through me. People close to me have said I've seemed distant, 'anti-social', not myself, and very quiet. All of which is somewhat true. I have been. Not purposely, but because I've heard this voice say, "No Melanie, come talk with me for a while." I have had some pretty frank conversations with God lately and each time I can feel his spirit and his presence around me. It's amazing what the spirit of God can do to you. And so from these conversations, I've talked about my past and things I've learned and even more so he planted this seed in my spirit one day. Confirmation came through the Oprah show one afternoon, and again through her magazine and website I saw in days to come. I continued to think about it in my head, but I just felt the need to outwardly express it. I didn't know in what avenue I should or if I should give birth to this 'baby'. I toiled with myself and finally I recalled, a project I started long ago...my blog, "Something New". My distance and quietness have also allowed me to see more about myself as a person and reflect upon the things that take place around me.

Welp, "Something New" ended as quick as it started. I had two posts and that was it. Thought it was cool and something I wanted to pursue. But now that I begin this one I feel God saying to me, "Melanie, it just wasn't the right time." And so, I jump back on it again, hoping that this time will be different. And, I think it will be. For the simple fact that one I've spent a great deal of time talking with myself and the Lord about this new venture. (He said, in all things put ME first, and I will direct your paths!) Secondly, because secretly writing is something I love to do. (to some degree). I enjoy writing about my thoughts and feelings. Nothing, I've ever told anyone, and I doubt anyone really knows about me. Third, I so feel like I am growing through this. I mentioned earlier, that I have been somewhat distant and in my own world, I certainly feel the presence of God working through me, but I also feel that I am growing as a person. I am starting to put together and discover some of life's most important lessons, and beginning to value and treasure life so much more. I have a great sense of joy and happiness lately. At one time, I use to think that everything had to be perfect and you always had to have a smile on your face to be happy, and now I know that that isn't the case. I am so thankful that God is putting me through this. I don't know what the plan is, but I'm ready for whatever you have in store, Lord! I thank him for the good and the bad, the ups and the downs, and everything in between, because I am learning so much. I am happy, joyful, and blessed beyond belief and I hope it doesn't stop anytime soon! :-)

I say all this to say, that my experiences, relationships, and everyday interactions have helped me to compile my list of things I know for sure. I've been jotting them down as I think of them and wrap my mind around things. So, as of now, I have a list of nearly 50. (Yeah, uh huh!) But one thing that I know for sure, is that this list will continue to grow. Because the day you stop learning, should be the day you die. And, so I will add to it as I continue to live my life. My plan as of yet, is to publish my nearly 50 list and begin going through them daily. Now, some days may have more than others, and some days may have less. I may jump around on my list or add to sometimes, who knows. It's wherever my thoughts, my heart, and my Lord take me.

Lastly, I would like to thank my best friend, Nia, for encouraging me to take this on. She's a one in a million friend, for sure! I am so thankful that God put her in my life. We met in college and have remained friends through it all! She is always there when I need her. Whether it is a stern talking to, a listening ear, and swift kick in the ass, someone to put me in my place, or a shoulder to cry on. She is always there with whatever I need. She often knows what I need before I need or knows exactly how I feel. I thank God for her and providing her with the wisdom and knowledge that she possess. I dedicate this post to her tonight, not only because she is my best friend, but because it's her birthday! I love you, Nia! Thanks for being the best friend a girl could ever want. Thank you for continually sharpening me . . . . Just as iron sharpens iron, so does one man sharpen another (Proverbs 27:17)

Melanie