Andrea O. Freeman

…. Seek His will in all you do, And He will show you which path to take. (Proverbs 3:6 NLT) Do you remember the first time your heart was broken? Trust was shaken? I think I was a freshman in high school when I met the first guy who would capture my heart-oh, those big blue dreamy eyes! We had just moved to Springfield in the winter of 1984, so we had lived here nearly 2 years I guess at that point. What would only be a matter of months I think, felt like an eternity to me. Teenage crushes are brutal, and the absolute worst in my opinion. When you are that young, and the hormones are raging, and you are in such an awkward stage trying to find your self-confidence and self-worth, the impact of any disappointment at this stage in life can have a catastrophic impact. I know you have been there, so journey with me for a moment back to that feeling. It’s almost a euphoric feeling, isn’t it? Young “love”. I used quotations for that because at that stage in life, we really do...

I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint. (Jeremiah 31:25 NIV) In my 46 years of life on this planet, I have experienced my share of failures and triumphs. I have received more criticism than I would prefer, both personal and professional, but I have chosen to use it to propel me forward. When circumstances seemed to be at their worst, I chose to trust God, tell Him, “Okay, Lord, I know You have got this, I hear You and I am moving forward!” and I am thankful, incredibly thankful for the experience the journey has brought me. I have more confidence, more tenacity, less concern for what others think and a greater appreciation for finding my own version of balance. I am not perfect by any means-I know I need to take more time out to rest and re-charge, eat a little less (stress eating-oy!), exercise more and above all take more time to lean in and be still in the presence of my Father God. There.is.not.enough.time! This week alone, my tired is tired. Last night I had t...