I have learned that when everything around me appears to be undone, so to speak, as if situations are getting worse, instead of better........... it means that God is working.
When God is the One working it out, then I can hold on.
God works in our favor. Always for our good.
I wrote this post in anticipation of 2012. I purposed to live it. I had no idea what I was in for.
2012 was a Whopper of a year!
(Do people still say, Whopper?)
God led me through a lesson of 'Focus' that was brand new to me. His purpose, which I see now, was to lead me to 'Freedom'.
As I said in this post,
Focus grants me freedom from,
Wasting time and money.
The expectations of others.
Putting things off.
Wandering aimlessly through my list of "Things to Do".
Always wanting to DO more........in order to feel successful.
Always wanting to BE more............in order to feel accomplished.
So, my lesson started with practical everyday issues. Time management skills were tested and fine tuned. Lists were made. Goals were accomplished efficiently. I was stoked!
The lesson continued in the area of business and creativity. I chose to focus on my business by taking three creative online courses. Many of them had 'homework' that allowed me to explore new forms of art, which has taught me the skills necessary to launch the new leather cuff line. The cuffs are selling steadily locally, and via the Etsy shop. I learned how to tell the story of inspiration behind each piece.
My business grew artfully and successfully in 2012.
Then the lesson continued to my personal health and well being. By May I was soaring through the year, and feeling good.
I wanted to feel Great!
I was already involved in Mixed Martial Arts, but as I advanced in that area, I realized I need to get stronger physically if I was going to continue to be successful. So, I joined the Fit-X team at the same location, and attended classes 3-4 times a week.
"Boot Camp" does not begin to describe it!
I had never been involved in intense workout sessions like these. I didn't even know that classes like this existed. It is a non-stop combination of cardio and martial arts. For me, it involved a lot of 'Focus' just getting to class. Once I was there it involved a ton of sweat, determination, perseverance.......... even some tears. But.........
I won!
I lost 26 pounds during those months.
I also gained a ton.......... confidence, physical strength, health, and more.
Regretfully, I have had to removed myself from the Martial Arts class. A couple of leg injuries, along with other issues in my knee/back, do not allow me to participate because of the impact on the body. I enjoyed wearing the full body gear and face mask (wish I had a pic to show you). I really loved the art of this workout.
I continue to be dedicated to the Fit-X. I attend 3-4 times per week. I have never felt this great before, and I look forward to even more success in 2013.
So, the lesson continued. God had a plan for me in 2012, and it wasn't just about time management, business, and health.
He had a lesson of 'Focus' that would bring me to 'Freedom', and I want to share it with you over the next few blog posts.
I hope you will come back and journey with me.
Loving and Living Life........................ Amanda
