LaPorter

Spring Forward, Change Is Coming

LaPorterMarch 12, 20184 Replies

flowers, butterfly, spring, outdoors — Pixabay

Spring is a lovely reminder of how beautiful change can truly be -Unknown

Even though Michigan weather is in the 30’s today, the first day of spring is March 20th. Spring is one of the four conventional temperate seasons, following winter and preceding summer. Spring is the season of new beginnings for many people. Take time and look around you when the flowers, plants, and trees begin to bloom, days become longer, and the weather is warmer.

No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow -Unknown

spring, outdoors, yard, plants, flowers, trees, grass — Pixabay

So, here’s the life lesson I want to discuss with you on today. Just like the seasons change, so do our mind, body, and spirit.

He health the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. -Psalm 147:3

Life Lesson – Mind
As spring starts to surface and the trees begin to bloom, we can see God’s reminder to align our hearts to the new thing He’s doing all around us. Keep in mind that everything changes except God. People change, circumstances change, our bodies change, and our desires and passions change. There is certainty in life…change!

Our thoughts are the first things we need to deal with during change because thoughts directly affect our emotions and determine our behavior. When circumstances change, make the transition mentally and your emotions will be a lot easier to manage. The next time sudden change happens in your life, act on God’s Word and not merely reacting to the situation, you will be able to manage your emotions instead of allowing them to manage you. Now, repeat after me…I don’t resist and dread change, and I adapt when I need to.

Life Lesson – Body & Spirit

Moving right along to the next life lesson. Unfortunately, the change in seasons will affect some people in ways that most cannot explain. Many people struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) which is a depression related to the change in seasons.

Some of the symptoms are as follows:

• Moodiness
• Low Energy
• Difficulty Sleeping
• A Lack of Interest in Activities
• A Lack of Interest in Relationships
• Feeling Hopeless

To help you prepare for the change in seasons, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you find yourself sleeping more?
• Are you struggling to get out of bed?
• Is it harder or easier to exercise now?
• Do you feel less patient?
• Are you easily annoyed or irritated?
• Do you feel more energized and productive?
• Has there been a shift or change in any of your relationships?
• Are you actively involved in activities?

Answering these questions will give you some insight about how the change of seasons may or may not affect you personally. Regardless of whether you are affected by SAD, there are three important points that will help you navigate and manage this process.

First, you need to exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes per day. Moving your body on a regular basis has a positive effect on your physical and emotional health. Keep in mind, you don’t have to spend countless hours in the gym to satisfy this requirement. You can walk around your neighborhood, run and play with your children, or do an at home workout.

Second, you need to get more sunlight. People need to be exposed to sunlight on a daily basis. Our bodies absorb vitamin D, important to our health, from sunlight. And the energy and emotional boost that we get from a few minutes in the sun is well worth it.

Third, you need to talk it out. It’s always easier when you’re sharing your thoughts and feelings with someone, such as your spouse, friend, coworker, or therapist. This process not only strengthens your relationships, but also it provides you with positive support during this difficult time.

spring, showers, rain, outdoors, woman, umbrella — Pixabay

Journal Prompts – Mind in Bloom
April showers bring May flowers. What do May flowers bring? Why do you think so?

Write about the perfect spring day and include details, such as smells, sights, sounds, touch, tastes.

Spring is thought to be a time of new beginnings. Write about a time when you started something new.

spring, walking, outdoors, exercise, body, moving — Pixabay

Journal Prompts – Body Moving
Write about how you plan to move forward physically in 2018.

Set some realistic exercise goals for yourself and write them down.

Write about one way you would like to grow physically in the next year.

spring, fishing, boat, outdoors, water, relax — Pixabay

Journal Prompts – Spirit Renewed
Write a personal poem about spring. What does spring time inspire in you. Write about it.

Write about how God has blessed you. Be specific and give examples.

Write about something you feel strongly about.

What’s on your mind?
Don’t be shy. Please share your thoughts and/or feelings concerning this blog by leaving a comment so we can have an open dialogue. I would love to hear from you!

Overcome by Grief / Faith Explosion

LaPorterMarch 4, 20184 Replies

When I first started the Renew Inspiration blog, my thought process was to write inspirational pieces that would not only inspire you, but also would keep you thinking of ways to overcome life changing events, such as the death of a loved one. Honestly, I would love to have a real dialogue with you concerning this topic. Do you think that it is possible to overcome grief in your life time? Now, I know that’s a deep question and I am sure that everyone reading this blog would probably give a different answer. For me, I often ask myself if I would ever overcome the grief that I feel each and every day. I do realize that everyone handles grief differently, but the pain of losing someone you dearly love can be overwhelming for most people. Would you agree?

The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. Psalm 18:2

When you are broken in pieces and experiencing so much pain, God can seem distant and even uncaring while you are in this vulnerable, yet lonely place. But before you throw in the towel or choose to give up on living life to the fullest, know that God promises in His Word to be with you always and to give you comfort in the midst of your storm, so whatever your feelings are suggesting to you in this very dark moment, know that God is with you always.

For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death. Psalm 48:14

Here’s another twist to an already complicated situation, but it is something for you to think about. While you are trying to overcome grief and wondering if God still loves you, then comes the faith concept to help put everything in total perspective. As we venture through our lives on Earth, we have faith in a God that we cannot see. I have always been taught to have faith in God, to read my Bible, and to say my faith-based prayers, but deep down inside I have always wondered how strong my faith really was in a God that I could not see. When my mom passed away in December 2015, my faith in God was tested to the fullest! I read my Bible, prayed and meditated until I received my break through. Then, I started writing in my journal constantly and that’s how Renew Inspiration was created.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8

So, what is faith and how do you define it?

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1
Faith can be defined as confidence, trust, assurance, conviction, and belief. Faith means trusting that God is in control, even when our faith is put to the test. In other words, faith is not just what we believe in our hearts, our religious doctrine or denominational creed, but also and more importantly, faith is a solid conviction within that what we believe and whom we believe in are worth staking our lives on. Would you agree?

For we walk by faith, not by sight. II Corinthians 5:7

Along this journey called life, we have to open our hearts and minds to a true understanding of life’s many challenges and faith, of what it is and what it is not, in our lives and abroad. It’s important to know that faith is something to be experienced and exercised, not defined, categorized, and neatly packaged on a shelf. Faith rests on a solid foundation. The evidence is everywhere before our eyes. Go ahead, look around you right now, in this very moment. God is able to persuade our hearts and our minds to put our trust in Him. When we find faith, we will know it because God will open our spiritual eyes to see that faith is our loyalty and devotion to God. So, when you are wondering how strong your faith is, just look up, smile, and say that I have faith in God that everything will be okay!

I choose faith over anxiety hope over worry love over fear -Mary Davis

God has a purpose for your pain, a reason for your struggle and a reward for your faithfulness. Trust Him and don’t give up -Dave Willis

Let your faith be bigger than your fear -Unknown

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, so missed, so very dear -Kay Berry

Journal Prompts:
• The area where I need to put more trust in God is …
• I find I feel God’s presence most when …
• God is leading me to make the following changes …
• Sometimes I get angry with God about …
• I feel most distant from God when …

Welcome March – Total Health & Wellness

LaPorterMarch 1, 20182 Replies

The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. Psalm 37:23

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6

Welcome March! Well, today is March 1st. Where did February go? I do realize it is the shortest month of the year, but I cannot believe we are ten days from Daylight Savings Time (March 11th) and nineteen days from the first day of Spring (March 20th). Well, I have to ask you…Have you taken time to renew your inspiration? Are you inspired to become better than you were yesterday? What drives you to push forward when obstacles arise in life or do you just want to give up? Who inspires you to reach for your dreams throughout this journey called life or do you feel left alone? Does anyone challenge you to set realistic goals for yourself? If not, today is your lucky day. I would like to challenge you today to get inspired for TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS. Let’s strive to organize your MIND, BODY & SPIRIT.

The mind is like water. When it’s turbulent, it’s difficult to see. When it’s calm, everything becomes clear. -Prasad Mahes

To the mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders. -Lao Tzu

Now, on our journey for TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS, it’s important to make a mental connection with your body and spirit. First, make sure to be realistic and put your thoughts into perspective honoring your personal beliefs. Second, don’t be afraid to prioritize things that matter most to you in your life right now, in this very moment, and remove all negativity, both people and things. Third, don’t be afraid to say NO to others and think positive thoughts throughout your day. Fourth, start using a calendar or planner to organize your appointments and errands. In addition, create a separate To Do List daily to stay organized and stress free.

Journal Prompts
• What are your priorities in life?
• What do you need to be content?
• Write down something that you want to remember. Why is it important to you?

Your body loves you. Love it back. -Unknown

Embrace and love your body. It’s the most amazing thing you will ever own. -Unknown

Now, that we have discussed our MIND, it’s time to discuss our BODY. First, it’s important to treat your body well and with respect. Second, our bodies are built to move so make sure you plan some kind of exercise daily (cardio, strength training, stretching). Third, make sure to eat a well-balanced diet to include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Remember, move more, eat less. No more excuses. Fourth, set realistic goals and a create a plan to reach your goals. Fifth, track your food and exercise. Sixth, join an online Wellness or Health Program, such as Weight Watchers or Spark People for additional support.

Journal Prompts
• Write 5 things you would like to do more and make a plan to do them.
• What do you love about yourself?
• Identify your strengths and weaknesses.

Everything has a spirit – honor that. -Unknown

In the long run, the sharpest weapon of all is a kind and gentle spirit. -Anne Frank

Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. -Albert Einstein

spirit, reading, Bible, God's Word — Pixabay

Now, we have discussed MIND & BODY. Let’s now discuss our SPIRIT. First, it’s important for you to connect with your inner being or your spirit throughout the day. For example, spend time in prayer, meditation, and reading God’s Word to receive the proper guidance in your life. Second, you can attend religious services often to get your spirit renewed or find scriptures to meditate on throughout the day. Third, take time to write down a spiritual quote or your favorite scripture to have it hidden in your heart. Fourth, you can get engaged with your spiritual self by reading inspirational books, writing personal reflections in your journal, or listening to spiritual music. Remember, your spirit drives your thought process, your emotions, and your mood so we have to keep it grounded with a strong foundation.

Journal Prompts
• What are you thankful for? Why?
• What are my values? What do I believe in?
• Identify one way you would like to grow in the next year.

So, are you up for the TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS challenge? I sure hope this blog has given you a boost of energy and some ideas to help you get started. Please leave a comment and share what you have chosen to do differently in order to better organize your MIND, BODY & SPIRIT. Remember, we learn from one another so don’t be shy. I look forward to reading your comments.

TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS TIPS
• Your success is found in your daily routine.
• Fitness Rule #1 – Never skip Mondays.
• Count your blessings and practice kindness every day.
• Let go of what you cannot control.
• Listen to your heart.
• Remember, to breathe.

My Inner Voice

LaPorterFebruary 25, 20184 Replies

Renew Inspiration has given me my inner voice to express my thoughts toward important topics that are dear to my heart. Thank you for spending this time with me on today. I don’t take your time for granted so allow my words to bless you and resonate in your spirit on today. Come along with me on this journey to experience my inner voice.

I didn’t give you the gift of life, life gave me the gift of you -Unknown

My inner voice cries out for all the children who are neglected and abused. My heart opens up for children who needs to be nurtured and loved despite their rough backgrounds. My thoughts are always racing about ways I can help children overcome obstacles that was not no fault of their own. Even though your inner voice cries out, you know that you are unable to help or save them all, so what do you do?

Where there is great love, there are always miracles -Unknown

My inner voice cries out for not just my own children who were adopted at a young age, but I strive to make a positive impact on the lives of every child I come into contact with. Some days your smile, your kind words, uplifting compliment or just a kind gesture are the only positive moments a child may experience throughout their busy day. Once again, I realize I cannot reach them all, so what do you do?

God knew that it doesn’t matter how your children get to your family. It just matters that they get there. -Kira Mortenson

My inner voice cries out for children who were blessed to find a loving family to take them into a safe and loving home, but to a child that has experienced abuse and/or neglect it’s hard for them to adjust properly due to the trauma of their pasts. In some cases, the new parents have no idea what the child has experienced, therefore it is difficult to help the child cope with his or her feelings. Sometimes it takes more than a prayer, hot meal, a warm hug, or a kind word to make these children feel the love that you are willing to share.

Let’s stay here for a moment. Now, what is happening right now, in this very moment. There is a new family unit being built with a foundation of love, prayer, and positive support. So that should be enough, right? Unfortunately, I can speak to this from my current experience. I call this creative parenting because you have to make adjustments daily in order to meet the child where they are for that moment. Even outside therapy sessions are not enough to deal with the emotional stress that families experience when trauma was introduced to children at young, tender ages.

We do not need to know the beginning of a child’s story to change the ending -Fi Newood

With that being said, my inner voice cries out to all parents who have sacrificed everything in order to provide for their children, both biological and adopted. The willingness to put your life on hold in order to provide a positive structure and future for a child shows your character. The child’s total well-being is always in the forefront of your mind. I strive to advocate for both of my sons each and every day. When children have special needs, it’s even another layer of difficulty put on the family unit. You have to make sure that the necessary resources and time is set into place not only at home, but also at school and extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, hobbies, etc. You are the voice for your children and must advocate for them in every waking moment. In return, you must teach your children how to advocate for themselves as well.

My inner voice cries out each and every day that I wake up knowing that I am responsible for two children that look up to me waiting on direction and guidance. It’s not always easy, but the experience strengthens you and changes your life forever. Let’s not give up on our children throughout our journey called life. Help support our children who may not have the positive support at home. Be a mentor, volunteer at your local schools, volunteer at local youth agencies, be a foster care parent, or even adopt a child. There are so many ways to give back to those children who need it most. I do realize WE cannot save them all, but even if we save one, that’s better than doing nothing at all.

Time for Renewal

LaPorterFebruary 21, 20186 Replies

I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you -Ezekiel 36:26

Now, tell me what is your breaking point? When do you just STOP and take a rest? When do you say “No” to others because you already have too much on your agenda? Believe it or not, most people do not make time for the renewal process to take place in their lives. We just keep going and going like the Energizer bunny, right?

However, it is important to realize when it is time for renewal. Allowing time for renewal offers one many advantages in life. First, time for renewal offers one personal growth and expansion from the inside out. Second, time for renewal offers one a fresh start to something that will be much better, and in most cases, greater than what they were already experiencing. Third, time for renewal offers one the ability to make necessary plans and allows their mind to think of resolutions that need to take place. Fourth, time for renewal can give you rest from the day to day hustle and bustle of life, which can interpret to self-reflection. Fifth, time for renewal offers one an opportunity to transform one’s mind and body to a more refreshed state.

If we just be still and listen, we will hear the sigh of relief inside our hollow bodies…we will hear the quiet and slow beats of our hearts and the pleasant thoughts surrounding our busy minds!
I encourage you today to really think about your personal journey and how important it is to make time for renewal. You will experience life awakening experiences that will allow for personal growth as well as an expansion of your creativity that only you can explore and enjoy.

Until next time, believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Quotes:
Everything in the universe has a rhythm, everything dances -Maya Angelou

And suddenly you know, it’s time to start something new and trust the magic of beginnings -Meister Eckhart

Where do WE go from here?

LaPorterFebruary 17, 20184 Replies

Where do we go from here? As a concerned parent, I struggle with my emotions related to the constant gun violence within our schools around the country. I thought a school was supposed to be a safe place for our children to learn, to dream, to imagine, and to grow friendships. However, every time I watch the evening news, there seems to be yet another tragedy plaguing our hearts, another story of senseless violence toward our children. Unfortunately, our children are no longer safe when they attend school because people are violating this safe zone to terrorize and murder innocent people for their own selfish gratification. What makes matters worse, is these stories seem to be the norm in our communities…in our cities…in our states…all over the United States of America! Our elected politicians only want to discuss this issue when there is another school shooting that takes place. Do you notice this trend too? Quite frankly, one death should be too many! Every American should be outraged at how our politicians are handling these kind of life changing events. These tragedies can happen anywhere. The next time it may be a school in your area, just a thought.

Where do we go from here? I honestly think that we need to discuss the root of the problem, in my opinion…MENTAL HEALTH! I don’t know about you, but I hear mental health come up in every last one of these mass shooting stories. As I look at the mental health programs in our community, or the lack there of, mental health is the first program to have funding cut and our politicians always choose to close the mental health facilities. I often wonder where people go that need this mental health resource? Unfortunately, these people have to deal with their own personal issues and they live right in the midst of our neighborhoods. We will never solve the gun violence as a whole because we do not have control of every person that owns or gets a gun in their possession, but we could make an attempt to reduce the number of casualties and/or school shooting events around the United States of America if we only had courage to do so, just a thought.

Where do we go from here? Well, I feel that we should go back to the basics: love, family unit, and prayer. This is truly my inspirational twist to such a serious problem that exists everywhere in the United States of America. First, where is the love and compassion for one another throughout our communities? I was taught that charity begins at home. We have to teach our children to love themselves so they will be able to love others. Also, we have to teach our children how to respect themselves as well as others, and their property. Remember, we cannot be afraid to correct our children when they are wrong. We must continue to embrace them with love and nurture them to the fullest. Second, where is the strong family unit? I remember the saying “a family that prays together, stays together”. When was the last time your family prayed together? When was the last time you sat down and talked with your child and/or a young person? Communication is very important and don’t under estimate our children. Remember, our children are little people that exists in a cruel and harsh world. Third, when do we pray together besides in church? Personally, I think we should put prayer back into our schools so that our children could have a spiritual covering throughout their day, but that’s my opinion. There is so much confusion and chaos within our schools and It seems to be getting worse, not better. After all, our children spend a great deal of time in school, so we need to give them hope again by offering a more positive and safe educational environment.

We don’t have control of gun violence, but we should have control of our households. Strive to meet the need of anyone, young or old, that may be suffering from mental health issues. Don’t just turn a blind eye to the situation. Do the right thing and find some help in your local community. If you are unable to find the services, contact your state or county and demand services be provided. Don’t forget your child’s school as well. The school may have mental health contacts to provide to families too. Finally, let’s begin sending letters and making phone calls to our politicians. I believe our children are worth it. After all, they are the future for tomorrow, right? I would love to hear your opinion about this matter. Please leave a comment so we can discuss this very important topic on a positive platform.

report, school, violence, safety, American

Self-Love

LaPorterFebruary 14, 20187 Replies

Happy Valentine’s Day! On today, I want you to concentrate on self-love. Self-love is taught to us as children and as we grow we begin to nurture everything within us, both good and bad. Self-love requires you to be honest about your current choices and thought patterns. Self-love is not selfish, but it forces you to undertake new practices that reflect self-worth. Now, here’s something to think about. Self-love, self-respect, self-worth…What do these words have in common? There is a reason they all start with “self” because you cannot find them in anyone else. Remember, you cannot truly love another person until you know how to love yourself. Loving yourself enough to realize you deserve a happy and fulfilled life. Well, I challenge you today to practice self-love and appreciate yourself just the way you are. When you learn to love you, then others will love you the way you deserve to be loved in return.

SELF-LOVE OPTIONS
• Find some ME TIME
• Write in your journal
• Read an inspirational book
• Take a long walk
• Exercise
• Take a nap
• Take a hot bubble bath
• Relax and do nothing

SELF-LOVE PEP TALK
Look in a mirror today and say these words out loud – I love myself today because I am beautiful, I am strong, I am powerful, I am fabulous, I am unique, I am blessed, I am smart. Repeat 3 times.

Now, be creative and create your own personal affirmations to describe yourself. Allow this to be your pep talk in the morning, repeat it throughout the day, and you can even post them at home/at work.

7 DAY SELF-LOVE & JOURNAL PROMPT ACTIVITY
For this activity, you will need a journal or notebook, something to write with and honesty. This is a time for personal reflection. I guarantee you will learn something new about yourself.

Day 1 – Journal Prompt: What do you think about you? What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Day 2 – Journal Prompt: What are you feeling right now in this very moment? What makes you happy?
Day 3 – Journal Prompt: What are your values? What do you believe in?
Day 4 – Journal Prompt: What are you grateful for? List at least 5 things and tell why.
Day 5 – Journal Prompt: What are you having a hard time accepting? Why is it hard to let go?
Day 6 – Journal Prompt: Write yourself a love letter. Make sure to talk yourself through a struggle.
Day 7 – Journal Prompt: How can you create space for self-love in your life right now and in the future?

QUOTES
When I accept myself, I am freed from the burden of needing you to accept me -Dr. Steve Maraboli

It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are -EE Cummings

The Soul Within

LaPorterFebruary 11, 20186 Replies

Scriptures:
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1

Do you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. I Corinthians 6:19-20

Once again, I want to thank you for believing in me and supporting my writing endeavors. I don’t know about you, but I am putting last week behind me and planning to have a much more productive week ahead. Sometimes I just sit and think about everything that life throws at us from day to day…from hour to hour…from minute to minute! For some of us, this experience can be very difficult to manage throughout our journey. We depend on support from family and friends to help us through those challenging times. For me, I pick up a pen and just start writing. Whichever way you choose to release this negative energy is good, the most important thing, is to release it. However, some people are not that fortunate. They have to face these hard times alone or just don’t have the means to find ways to handle the pressures of life.

The Soul Within was written with you in mind. Even if you are not experiencing a difficult time right now, just keep living. It is important to learn how to mentally withstand difficult situations presently and in the future. According to the Webster Dictionary, soul is defined as the principle of life, feeling, thought, and an action in humans, regarded as distinct entity separate from the body. Your soul is the part of you that consists of your mind, character, and thoughts.

The soul within is like an instrument playing a special tune to everything that life throws our way. The soul within clears our mind in the midst of chaos and confusion. The soul within offers a sense of comfort and peace as we go through challenges in life. The soul within at times, get filled up with our emotions especially when we experience heartache and pain. The soul within often times try to protect us from the negative world we live in. The soul within runs so deep that some people have out of body experiences that only they understand and can explain. The soul within is your protector, your guide, your teacher, your angel, your friend. The soul within can be a mother to the motherless and a father to the fatherless. The soul within can be your companion, comforter, and helper. The soul within showers you and those around you with love, peace, joy, and gratitude each and every day. The soul within will always be there tucked deep inside just waiting for the right time to assist you, but we have to learn how to get out of the way. No matter how difficult it may be, take a deep breath, close your eyes, and enjoy the soul within experience.

Quotes:
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. -Maya Angelou

Maybe you’ve been assigned this mountain to show others it can be moved. -Unknown

Positive Thoughts:
Stop trying to calm the storm. Calm yourself, the storm will pass.

It is well with my soul.

Her soul is fierce. Her heart is brave. Her mind is strong.

Journaling for Good Health

LaPorterFebruary 7, 20184 Replies

Have you ever tried journaling for good health? For those of you who are not familiar with the term journaling, here is the definition:

Journaling is a record of experiences, ideas, or reflections kept regularly for private use (diary).

When you decide to do some journaling, make sure to start with the date and start with small talk. If you are stuck, just ask yourself a question to get started. For example, “what was the best thing that happened this week”?

Journaling Tips:
1. Slow down and write down how you really feel – Be realistic, be honest and hold yourself accountable
2. Journaling is a life worth living – Personal journey – Your life’s story
3. Journaling is time for reflection and to find out who you are
4. Journaling offers you an opportunity to leave a written legacy to those around you
5. Giving yourself balance – putting everything on paper to get it out of your heart and mind

Journaling is a way to express yourself on paper. There’s no right or wrong way to do it. Just write. Write all the time no matter where you are. Write yourself out of creative blocks. Write even if it’s complete garbage in your opinion. Just don’t stop writing. It’s important to write what you want to write. Not what others expect you to write. Don’t let people’s opinions shape your first draft. Remember, this is your personal journaling experience so what are you waiting for? Let’s get journaling for good health!

Journal Prompts:
Mind
Write down everything in life that gives you pleasure or joy.
What in my life makes me feel alive and energized?
What are your successes and struggles?

Body
Dear body, I love you because…
When I look in the mirror, I feel…
How do I connect food with my body?

Spirit
What do I need more of in my life?
What words do I wish someone would say to me right now?
How can I give that to myself today…this week…this month…this year?

Quote:
Write what disturbs you, what you fear, what you have not been willing to speak about. Be willing to be split open. -Natalie Goldberg

Inhale Exhale Depression Is Real

LaPorterFebruary 4, 201816 Replies

Happy Super Bowl Sunday! I really have been struggling on if I wanted to write a blog about depression. Yes, depression is a subject that most people try to avoid, but I don’t want to avoid any part of my personal story. Well, here we go. When my mother passed away in December 2015 my whole world changed. Even though I know my mother is in a better place and no longer have to suffer or be in pain, I felt so hurt and defeated. I truly felt like I could not do enough within my power to help my mother overcome her illness. Even as I write this blog, I just feel some kind of way. My eyes get full of tears and my emotions start racing all over the place. Nevertheless, I fell into a deep depression throughout my grieving process. I no longer wanted to be bothered with the outside world, but I still managed to be a wife, a mother, and work my part-time job. I felt empty inside and turned to reading God’s Word, praying, meditating, and writing in my journal for comfort. I’ve learned so much through this process, but the most important thing I learned was to express your feelings and not hold them in. Sometimes I cried, sometimes I read an inspirational book, sometimes I went for a long walk outdoors, sometimes I just screamed, sometimes I just wrote in my journal, and sometimes I just sat in silence. Through it all, God blessed me with my supportive husband, Elon Porter, who at times did not know what to do or what to say, but he never left my side. You know the old saying find something good in every situation? Well, I found the strength to start my own blog and my husband encouraged me to proceed. Believe it or not, if I would not have experienced such a low place in my life, you probably would not have the pleasure of visiting my blog and reading this one right now. Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit was created in memory of my mother, Rosalynn K. Russell and my father, James O. Russell. My parents were so supportive of everything that I did in life, all of my personal accomplishments. If I could help someone else overcome depression or any of life’s many challenges, I am up for the task. Writing this blog is a part of my personal story. No matter what life throws at you, stay committed to your task at hand, reach out to your family and friends for support, seek counseling with a licensed therapist, write your feelings in a journal, but never allow yourself to drown in the belly of depression. Remember, depression is not healthy for you or for those around you. Thank you for listening and sharing this precious time with me. Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

In Loving Memory of
Rosalynn K. Russell
November 29, 1942 – December 19, 2015

In Loving Memory of
James O. Russell
June 12, 1941 – July 9, 2003

Quote:
I have fallen, but I will get up. -Maya Angelou

Inspirational Thought:
You were never created to live depressed, defeated, guilty, condemned, ashamed or unworthy. You were created to be victorious.

Scriptures:
Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. Psalm 55:22
Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. Psalm 27:14
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8

6 Ways to Stay Positive:
• Have Faith in God’s Plan
• Put Everything in God’s Hands
• Practice Gratitude Daily
• Focus on Helping Others
• Surround Yourself with Laughter
• Write it Out & Talk it Out