I know so many of you who are reading this have heard of Zeal. Its EVERYWHERE!! Its going to continue to GROW!! The Zeal for Life Challenge, is a movement of people who are on a mission to get healthy. And the number of folks who are committing to take that challenge is increasing each and every day.
Why? Because everyone is tired of feeling like CRAP! I apologize for being blunt but its true. Everything you eat, is processed. Unless you already eat healthy--fruits, veggies, etc.
All I see and hear all day long is "Oh I feel like crap. Im so tired. I just want to go take a nap.." ETC. Get up and do something about it!!!!!!!!! You do NOT have to sit there in pain, and have that dragging feeling!! I KNOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! How do I know? Because I have been there and I have done it with feeling like that. I dealt with horrible joint pain for several years and after REPEATED trips to the doctor and dealing with feeling like crap for years, and being blown off when I'd seek help from my doctor, all he wanted to do was put me on pills for this and that and increase the dosage. All that did was add to the toxins and poison in my system! It certainly didn't do anything for me! None of the medicines helped me. All they did was make me MORE irritable than I already was and I gained a lot of weight. The only medication that did anything for me, was Ambien. And I absolutely COULD NOT sleep unless I took one before bed.
I have been drinking Zeal Wellness since January 27, 2013. And I drank it because someone cared enough to bring me a sample. I didn't even ask for it!!! She cared about me that much--and knew what a horrible time I was having and how I was feeling. All she did was bring me a single serve bottle and said, "Try this!" I had NO CLUE what it was. So I asked. And I didn't just blow her off. I knew she was genuinely concerned and trying to help me. I can tell you straight up I will not quit drinking Zeal. I know and remember exactly what I felt like before she ever put a bottle of that pink/purple powder in my hand.
As I said before Zeal, I didn't sleep, without Ambien, and I hated taking it because it made me sleep SO hard that I was still a zombie when I woke up of a morning. I would get up, go to work and work 4 hours or so and go home and take a 2-3 hour nap DAILY. It was all I could do to walk around because my knees and my feet hurt SO bad. My toes even hurt. My hands hurt and ached all of the time. I found myself rubbing my elbows, neck, shoulders all the time just to get some relief from the aches. I would push through each and every day, to go to work, go to the grocery store, clean my house and do school with my kids. I would go to bed only to just lay there and fight the tears because my whole body just ached so badly. I would lay there and fight the urge to get out of bed and I would usually lose that fight because I would have to get up and walk around to make that feeling like I was climbing the walls go away. It was a never ending cycle and battle every single day.
But since I have been drinking Zeal, I noticed a change. And once I was on it for 2 solid weeks, I could really tell a difference. Other people were noticing the changes. I was happier, I was getting around better, etc. I even started losing some weight--and I didn't start using the product for that reason. In fact, its NOT JUST FOR WEIGHT LOSS! I knew it was vitamins and new I didn't like to take vitamins(because they made me nauseated). I had certain vitamins I was suppose to take per the doctors to help with all of my symptoms, but I hated taking them. It was all I could do to swallow them. Zeal Wellness and the simplicity of it, was a God send and I am so thankful that my friend Jessica took the time to share it with me.
And that's all I want. I just want to be able to share something with everyone else. I know what it is, and I know what it can do. I know it can help you feel amazing. So many people are hurting and have various health issues going on and they are OVER MEDICATED!! Folks I am here to tell you that if you get the right vitamins and nutrients in your body, it will begin to heal itself from the inside out. Our bodies are THE MIRACLE created by the ONE AND ONLY Heavenly Father. Our bodies are a temple--and we are suppose to take care of it.
Why is it so hard for everyone to realize that its simple nutrition. You quit putting garbage in your body and put the things in it that it NEEDS and you WILL FEEL BETTER!! You feel better, you want to get up and do more. You give your body the proper nutrients it needs and it ends up having the natural fuel for energy that it needs. Its not hard to comprehend.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. You know how you feel. You know what you want to do. You know if your sick and tired of being sick and tired. You know if you want to just get on a road to better healthier nutrition and a healthier life-style.
I could have tried this product and flat said no. But I didn't. I NEVER SAID NO!! I said "YES" from the first time I tried it. Why did I say yes? Because, as I said, someone else CARED enough to SHARE it with me. Giving it a try was the least that I could do. And it has been one of the best decisions that I have ever made.
If you are ready to give Zeal Wellness a try, fabulous! I'd love to help you! Just click on the link and check out my website. If you have any questions, all you have to do is ask.
Here's a video on the Genesis of Zeal--you want an idea of what is in Zeal--this video is the one to see: Genesis of Zeal
Take the Zeal for Life Challenge: HERE
Contact Lesley Otwell
These statements have not been evaluated by the United States Food and
Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat,
cure or prevent disease. The information on this site is not intended to
replace advice from your physician or other health care professional or
any information found on any product label or packaging. You should
always consult with a qualified health care professional before starting
any diet or supplementation program, especially if you are pregnant,
nursing or taking prescription medications.
Ramblings of a wife, mom, teacher, artist, custodian and Entrepreneur.
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Friends
I've got a friend just like this. I was thinking just a few days ago how amazing and neat it is to see God work timing throughout our lives.
I met this incredibly sweet and funny woman, through Facebook--Imagine that! (Ha! Isn't that where everyone meets these days?")
No, seriously-- I met her through Facebook, after I found her husband on there. I've known him since we were in Kindergarten. One of those that I've not seen since we graduated high school(Class of '91). Each time I find someone I went to school with, I'll check out their pics and see what all they've been up to over the last few years. I was deeply touched by his pictures. I would also see pictures on his feed that his wife had posted and tagged him in. And my heart just broke and it ached for them. As I sit here, 11:30 at night, while everyoen else is asleep-including the cat who is laying on the table next to me, and its so hard to keep the tears from coming. I don't know exactly what they dealt with, but I have a little bit of an inkling.
I knew him, but it had been YEARS since I'd seen him. I had no clue who she was, but still, my heart just hurt for them. I sent her a friend request, she accepted, and over the last couple of years now, I've watched her, followed her, got lots of giggles out of funny posts, watched her kids grow, through pics, and said a lot of prayers as I've seen her posts asking for prayers. This mom is one of the strongest women I have come to know. And I am SO thankful for her. God always knows what we need, just when we need it. Not too many weeks ago, she sent me a message via FB and said she'd been praying for me. Unbeknownst to her, I was having a really rough day. She had NO clue what I was dealing with. But she felt the need to pray for me, and thats just what she did. She messaged me and said "Hi, just wanted you to know I was thinking about you and praying for you!"
My God never ceases to amaze me, that He puts the right people in our paths and in our lives at just the right time. It may be for a season, or for a life time, but He DOES bring people into our lives. She's given me lots of encouragement just in the last week. You may not already know, but by the time you read this, you will--know how thankful I am that God brought you and your friendship into my life!
Ecclesiastes 4:9-11 9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: 10 If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Interest or Commitment
How many of you have things that your interested in? You see something you like and you take interest in learning more about it. For example, gardening, coin collecting, etc.
How about commitment? How many of you have things you are committed to? If your married, your committed to your spouse. If your a parent, your committed to your kids. If you have goals your working on, your committed to meeting those goals.
How do you feel about your health? Are you interested in learning how to improve your health? How about bettering your eating habits, increasing your daily exercise, etc. OR are you committed to bettering those things? Committed to changing your eating habits, exercise habits, and just your over all health?
Kyle and I had previously been "interested" in bettering our health, and we just never did anything about it. We talked about it. We looked over fitness videos and read different books on changing our eating habits etc. We even started buying a variety of vitamins over the counter, to help to improve this and that.
And then, we discovered Zeal Wellness. Folks Zeal is NOT just an interest of ours. We are committed to this product. Why? Because its been so beneficial for us. Has it cured what ailed us? NO!!! Its NOT A CURE OR MIRACLE DRUG! Its simple, natural nutrition. Over 100 vitamins and super foods that our bodies NEED. You can eat right all day long, that's great by the way. However, your body NEEDS certain items that you just can't get in eating the 'right foods.' My body was lacking in something. I don't know exactly which things I just know it was lacking. That was why I didn't feel good, why I was so tired all the time, why my joints hurt, etc. Kyle's does not have joint pain like he previously experienced and his blood pressure has significantly dropped. Speaking of dropping things, we've both dropped some weight as well. I started at 137(ish..it fluctuated between 137 and 140) and Kyle has lost about 35 pounds, and has started gaining muscle since working out more.
And, that brings me to something I really want to share. This company and biz venture has lead us to meet some awesome people. And they are not just friends. Zurvita is a family! We've met people from across the US--from California to Florida. My good friend Jeremy Raney has been gracious enough to allow me to share something with all of you. He has an incredible testimony on how Zeal Wellness has helped him. Thank you Jeremy Raney for letting me share this with everyone! Congratulations on your weight loss! You look fabulous brother!!! Thankful and blessed to know you!!
Whether your interested in Zeal or ready to make a commitment to bettering your over all health, we'd love to help you do that. Your life can drastically change for the better! Check it out-you have nothing to lose and everything to gain!
Kyle's Zeal For Life
405-620-4918
Lesley's Zeal FOr Life
405-620-4916
How about commitment? How many of you have things you are committed to? If your married, your committed to your spouse. If your a parent, your committed to your kids. If you have goals your working on, your committed to meeting those goals.
How do you feel about your health? Are you interested in learning how to improve your health? How about bettering your eating habits, increasing your daily exercise, etc. OR are you committed to bettering those things? Committed to changing your eating habits, exercise habits, and just your over all health?
Kyle and I had previously been "interested" in bettering our health, and we just never did anything about it. We talked about it. We looked over fitness videos and read different books on changing our eating habits etc. We even started buying a variety of vitamins over the counter, to help to improve this and that.
And then, we discovered Zeal Wellness. Folks Zeal is NOT just an interest of ours. We are committed to this product. Why? Because its been so beneficial for us. Has it cured what ailed us? NO!!! Its NOT A CURE OR MIRACLE DRUG! Its simple, natural nutrition. Over 100 vitamins and super foods that our bodies NEED. You can eat right all day long, that's great by the way. However, your body NEEDS certain items that you just can't get in eating the 'right foods.' My body was lacking in something. I don't know exactly which things I just know it was lacking. That was why I didn't feel good, why I was so tired all the time, why my joints hurt, etc. Kyle's does not have joint pain like he previously experienced and his blood pressure has significantly dropped. Speaking of dropping things, we've both dropped some weight as well. I started at 137(ish..it fluctuated between 137 and 140) and Kyle has lost about 35 pounds, and has started gaining muscle since working out more.
And, that brings me to something I really want to share. This company and biz venture has lead us to meet some awesome people. And they are not just friends. Zurvita is a family! We've met people from across the US--from California to Florida. My good friend Jeremy Raney has been gracious enough to allow me to share something with all of you. He has an incredible testimony on how Zeal Wellness has helped him. Thank you Jeremy Raney for letting me share this with everyone! Congratulations on your weight loss! You look fabulous brother!!! Thankful and blessed to know you!!
Kyle's Zeal For Life
405-620-4918
Lesley's Zeal FOr Life
405-620-4916
Monday, February 25, 2013
Zeal Wellness...My Story
As I said in my previous post, Zeal Wellness is an A.M.A.Z.I.N.G product. I just can not say that enough. Sure, you sit there and think, "Oh here we go again, another fad thats being promoted." Or, "Is she seriously going to sit here and talk about yet another product that won't last?" YES! I AM!!
************Disclaimerr: Zeal is not a cure all and this post in no way declares that!************
Zeal Wellness has changed my life. LITERALLY in just 4 weeks. And I am SO thankful that I have been given the chance to share just what its done with everyone who reads this, and I will share it with those that I come in contact with as well. I want to be able to tell others what an impact its had on my life and share share SHARE with them!
I first want to thank my friends Jessica Musick and Stephanie Josey for introducing me to Zeal. Stephanie shared this product with Jessica and in turn Jessica shared it with me. And she didn't have to. She knew the instant she heard about Zeal that it was something that could benefit me.
For those of you who do not already know me, my name is Lesley. I have been married to my husband Kyle for almost 19 years. We have two kids, Colton(15) and Tobi(7). I am so thankful that I have been able to stay home and not work outside the home, since just about 4 months after Kyle and I got married. I had said from day 1 that I didn't want to have to work and put my kids in daycare if I didn't have to. For that I am SO BLESSED!
My story starts back in 2000 when my son was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. I began to have a horrible time with depression and anxiety, migraines, insomnia, loss of appetite and I lost an extreme amount of weight. I was put on antidepressants, sleep medication and as time went on the dosages just went up. I began to have joint pain that came and went but seemed to explode in 2008 after I had a hysterectomy. Within 2 days of that surgery, I began to have issues with the inside of my mouth burning--literally felt like it was on fire. I was put on medication to 'help' with that, but to no avail, it didn't help. I started putting on weight--the only time I have ever gained weight is when I was pregnant with my kids. I gained 30lbs after my hysterectomy. The insomnia and depression and anxiety issues remained, and seemed to get worse. The joint pain began to increase and it was so bad, it was all I could do to get out of bed some days. I HAD to get up and push through each day--b/c I had to take care of my kids.
In 2009, I was told that I had Fibromyalgia. My legs hurt, I experienced Restless Leg Syndrome, my knees hurt--if I could avoid walking up stairs, I would do just that. I would get out of bed of a morning and moan and groan and think to myself, "I am not old enough to hurt like this!" My back, shoulders and neck would hurt so bad that I couldn't hardly turn my head. Every single joint in my body just hurt. Even my toes hurt. I couldn't stand for someone to touch me, at all. I changed doctors and got a second opinion--he said the same thing the first one did--Fibromyalgia. He did full xrays, from head to toe. He said that I had a few tiny spurs forming in different places and that c4,5,6 had some arthritis.
And he changed my medication. Since 2000, I have been on Lexapro, Celexa, Prozac, Cymbalta, Lyrica, and back to Prozac, and several different pain pills.
About 4 1/2 weeks ago, I was given a couple of sample bottles of Zeal. I was told, "Just mix it with water, or juice, shake it and drink up!" I opened a bottle, added cold water to it, shook it up, and downed it. I went about my day working and realized in just about 15 minutes, "WOW!...What was in that??" I thought to myself, "NO..there's no way that little bottle could make me feel that good in just 15 minutes." The next day when I got to work, I mixed the second bottle up. Felt the same way. I got through the entire day without my knees hurting at all. I got home from work that afternoon, did school with my kids and before the day was over, I bought my first canister of Zeal Wellness.
4 1/2 weeks--thats it. I have little to no joint pain. I've been sleeping better, and I am not taking any of the prescription drugs that I have been on for the last 12 years. I am amazed each and every day. I have had a couple of days in the last 4 weeks that I have had mild pain issues, but nothing like what I was dealing with. I am constantly amazed at the stories that I am hearing about Zeal, that are so similar to my own. Its a huge blessing to be able to share this AMAZING product with friends and family. It is my prayer that I am able to do just that. I have to share with others what its done for me, and what its going to do for my family...and thats what I intend to do! :0)
************Disclaimerr: Zeal is not a cure all and this post in no way declares that!************
Zeal Wellness has changed my life. LITERALLY in just 4 weeks. And I am SO thankful that I have been given the chance to share just what its done with everyone who reads this, and I will share it with those that I come in contact with as well. I want to be able to tell others what an impact its had on my life and share share SHARE with them!
I first want to thank my friends Jessica Musick and Stephanie Josey for introducing me to Zeal. Stephanie shared this product with Jessica and in turn Jessica shared it with me. And she didn't have to. She knew the instant she heard about Zeal that it was something that could benefit me.
For those of you who do not already know me, my name is Lesley. I have been married to my husband Kyle for almost 19 years. We have two kids, Colton(15) and Tobi(7). I am so thankful that I have been able to stay home and not work outside the home, since just about 4 months after Kyle and I got married. I had said from day 1 that I didn't want to have to work and put my kids in daycare if I didn't have to. For that I am SO BLESSED!
My story starts back in 2000 when my son was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. I began to have a horrible time with depression and anxiety, migraines, insomnia, loss of appetite and I lost an extreme amount of weight. I was put on antidepressants, sleep medication and as time went on the dosages just went up. I began to have joint pain that came and went but seemed to explode in 2008 after I had a hysterectomy. Within 2 days of that surgery, I began to have issues with the inside of my mouth burning--literally felt like it was on fire. I was put on medication to 'help' with that, but to no avail, it didn't help. I started putting on weight--the only time I have ever gained weight is when I was pregnant with my kids. I gained 30lbs after my hysterectomy. The insomnia and depression and anxiety issues remained, and seemed to get worse. The joint pain began to increase and it was so bad, it was all I could do to get out of bed some days. I HAD to get up and push through each day--b/c I had to take care of my kids.
In 2009, I was told that I had Fibromyalgia. My legs hurt, I experienced Restless Leg Syndrome, my knees hurt--if I could avoid walking up stairs, I would do just that. I would get out of bed of a morning and moan and groan and think to myself, "I am not old enough to hurt like this!" My back, shoulders and neck would hurt so bad that I couldn't hardly turn my head. Every single joint in my body just hurt. Even my toes hurt. I couldn't stand for someone to touch me, at all. I changed doctors and got a second opinion--he said the same thing the first one did--Fibromyalgia. He did full xrays, from head to toe. He said that I had a few tiny spurs forming in different places and that c4,5,6 had some arthritis.
And he changed my medication. Since 2000, I have been on Lexapro, Celexa, Prozac, Cymbalta, Lyrica, and back to Prozac, and several different pain pills.
About 4 1/2 weeks ago, I was given a couple of sample bottles of Zeal. I was told, "Just mix it with water, or juice, shake it and drink up!" I opened a bottle, added cold water to it, shook it up, and downed it. I went about my day working and realized in just about 15 minutes, "WOW!...What was in that??" I thought to myself, "NO..there's no way that little bottle could make me feel that good in just 15 minutes." The next day when I got to work, I mixed the second bottle up. Felt the same way. I got through the entire day without my knees hurting at all. I got home from work that afternoon, did school with my kids and before the day was over, I bought my first canister of Zeal Wellness.
4 1/2 weeks--thats it. I have little to no joint pain. I've been sleeping better, and I am not taking any of the prescription drugs that I have been on for the last 12 years. I am amazed each and every day. I have had a couple of days in the last 4 weeks that I have had mild pain issues, but nothing like what I was dealing with. I am constantly amazed at the stories that I am hearing about Zeal, that are so similar to my own. Its a huge blessing to be able to share this AMAZING product with friends and family. It is my prayer that I am able to do just that. I have to share with others what its done for me, and what its going to do for my family...and thats what I intend to do! :0)
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Furry Feline Friends
Its been a while since I even pulled my blog up on my computer. As I sit and type right now, its funny, because the newest member of our family is sitting on the arm of the couch watching me type. Actually, she's sleeping. Its so sweet because she's either sitting next to me like shes is now or curled up on the back of the couch behind me. You see, we decided to get my daughter a new kitty for Christmas. It was a last minute decision. I'd seen on a friend's Facebook page, wehre they had some kittens to give away. By the time I'd discussed it with my husband, all the kitties were gone. I was heart broken. Not for just my daughter but for myself. We use to have a big fat white cat that my sister gave us a few years ago. He was just a baby when we got him. I've always wanted a big fluffy kitty. And he was perfect. One big ball of fluff! We tossed names around a lot and we were going to go with Boomer, but went with Stoops instead. Why Stoops? Because my husband is a DIE hard OU fan. My daughter was just beginning to talk when we got the cat, so when she said his name, it didnt come out Stoops...but Poots instead. She'd call him Pootsie or Poops. Turned out the name POOPSIE fit him well. We ended up having to put him outside not long after we got him though. He refused to use his litterbox. He would use the floor instead. I would clean up the mess, move the litterbox and then he'd find a different location to use. I'd had enough. So out he went. He seemed to be more content outside too. He was always a bit moody from the start. And dont ever try to pet him anywhere--except just behind his little ears. Other wise, CHOMP--he'd try to bite ya.
Through the big snow storm we had a few years ago, to the miserable heat 2 summers in a row, he survived outside. But sadly, we discovered he was missing a few months ago. And then about 3 weeks ago, my husband found what was left of the cat, in our back lot. Just a pile of fur and bones. =(
My assumption is that a dog got through the fence from neighbors behind our house.
I miss that grouchy old fat cat. He may be gone, but he won't be forgotten.
And so, thats where the story of the new kitty, CoCo, comes about. She's about 12 weeks old. And she's got a super sweet personality. She was a bit skittish at first when we brought her home but thats understandable. My daughter keeps her in her bedroom with her. We've managed to get her introduced to the dogs. Our big dog, stays outside most of the time and its a good thing, because he'd squish her!
Our little dog..she's pretty curious about her still. She won't hardly leave her alone and insists on pestering Coco to death!
She's a pretty good fit for our family. Im so thankful that my husband found the ad when he did for her. She was already litter box trained and that was a HUGE plus, especially considering the issues with our other cat and his NOT using the litter box. That lil turkey. Its been nice to have a cute curious little kitty around the house-especially one that will play for a while and then settle down and just snooze next to ya.
Through the big snow storm we had a few years ago, to the miserable heat 2 summers in a row, he survived outside. But sadly, we discovered he was missing a few months ago. And then about 3 weeks ago, my husband found what was left of the cat, in our back lot. Just a pile of fur and bones. =(
My assumption is that a dog got through the fence from neighbors behind our house.
I miss that grouchy old fat cat. He may be gone, but he won't be forgotten.
And so, thats where the story of the new kitty, CoCo, comes about. She's about 12 weeks old. And she's got a super sweet personality. She was a bit skittish at first when we brought her home but thats understandable. My daughter keeps her in her bedroom with her. We've managed to get her introduced to the dogs. Our big dog, stays outside most of the time and its a good thing, because he'd squish her!
Our little dog..she's pretty curious about her still. She won't hardly leave her alone and insists on pestering Coco to death!
She's a pretty good fit for our family. Im so thankful that my husband found the ad when he did for her. She was already litter box trained and that was a HUGE plus, especially considering the issues with our other cat and his NOT using the litter box. That lil turkey. Its been nice to have a cute curious little kitty around the house-especially one that will play for a while and then settle down and just snooze next to ya.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Feelings
This is not the first time I've decided to write about feelings. After all, we do all have them. At least I think we do. I guess there are those out there who are so stone cold to everything that they don't know how to crack a smile, shed a tear, or have a good laugh.
The last time I wrote on feelings, it was simply titled "Compassion". What is that? Here's the definition of compassion: Compassion is a virtue — one in which the emotional capacities of empathy and sympathy (for the suffering of others) are regarded as a part of love itself, and a cornerstone of greater social interconnection and humanism — foundational to the highest principles in philosophy, society, and personhood.
I'll give you a few seconds to ponder and chew on that one. Go back and read it over again if you need to.
Most who know me, know I have a very tender heart. It doesn't take much to make me teary eyed. And it doesn't always have to be something sad. I have shed many tears that were happy tears. Is that a problem that I have a soft heart? It shouldn't be. I'm not blind, I've seen the look on some people's faces when I start getting teary eyed about something. Its a look of "Oh good grief, here she goes again!!!" Well, to that I say...."WHATEVER!" That's just who I am. Its the way that the Lord made me and wired me to be. It simply means that he gave me a compassionate heart.
I don't have to know someone to show compassion for them. I don't have to KNOW what they are dealing with. It does help to know though, so that I know what how to lift them up in prayer. I myself have been known to have a conversation with people and I can see the tears well up in their eyes. And then of course, here come the water works for myself. But that's what we are to do. Listen, have compassion, and love one another.
New International Version (NIV)Luke 6:31
31 Do to others as you would have them do to you
.Is that really so hard to do? Believe me, its NOT hard. I've had people in the past that I have had words with, and just not gotten along with them. I prayed and asked the Lord to help me with that. I have gone to that person, apologized for the bad attitude and asked for forgiveness. Was that hard? Uh, YA..its called letting go of pride and letting your guard down. But it goes along with Luke 6:31..b/c you treat others the way you want to be treated. I've heard people quote that, and they certainly don't practice it.
The whole point in me writing about this again, is because of the fact that as I have already said, I have a very tender heart. And when I hear of someone losing their battle, with the same disease that my son fights every single day, the compassion doesnt just go away. Instead it explodes.
Since June of 2000, I have met several families, who are also the parents of kids with diabetes. They are the ONLY ones who REALLY understand what its like to have a child with diabetes. The doctors don't understand--they say they do, but really? Do THEY really? Unless you live with it in your home, its really hard to know just what its like. I'm very thankful to have these people in my life--its not an accident. God places people in our lives for a reason.
Every minute across the world, 6 people die of diabetes… Either directly, or indirectly as the result of a complication. In total this disease is therefore the cause of almost 4 million deaths per year! Which is as many as those caused by AIDS. These are the figures put forward by the World Health Organization and the International Diabetes Federation (the IDF). It’s a genuine massacre which shows no sign of stopping http://www.destinationsante.com/
In the last 24 hours, there is a family who is hurting, and grieving for the loss of their loved one. Parents have lost a son, a sister has lost her brother, kids have lost their daddy and friends have lost a friend. That my friends, is sad. Although at the same time, we can take comfort that he is resting in the arms of Jesus and that he has a new body that is whole and he is no longer in any pain.
I have been talking to this young man's mom for a few weeks now, thanks to Face Book, I was able to find her and get in touch with her. I'd been wanting to get in touch with her for some time and wasn't sure how to. I found her on FB and was thrilled. I do not think it was an accident that I was able to find her on facebook. You see, this mom is a mom just like myself--she has fought the same fight that I fight every day, the same fight that I have fought every day since June of 2000. She knows how I feel. She knows the hurt that I feel and the anxiety that I have as I watch my kid grow up with something that I can't take away from him. I can't fix it for him. What I can do is be there for him, pray for him that he will just accept his health. I was given this child, to take care of, for such a time as this. The Lord KNEW before He gave me my son, just what road lied ahead of us. He knew. He's not going to give us anything more than He thinks we can handle. IT takes a special person to be the parent of a child with diabetes. Its a tough job, and obviously the Lord thought I could do the job. :)
Am I trying to take the sadness and heartache and turn it around on myself and my own family? Absolutely NOT. The whole reason for me to even write this is because of the fact that my heart truly ACHES for them. When I first heard he was so seriously ill and in the hospital, my heart just hurt for them. He had a stroke that was the result of Juvenile Diabetes. Just a few weeks ago, I learned of another young lady, who is the same age as my son, who went to bed one night, seemed fine, and never woke up the next morning. I learned yesterday of THREE other people just this past week, who have passed away, due to complications from diabetes.
A parent should never have to bury their child. I've heard that said several times since I was a kid growing up. We know that this world is not our home. Our life here on earth will not last forever, and that is the way that the good Lord intended things to be.
While you might think this was just a lot of jibber jabber, to me it was not. Its simply stating how I feel about things. And I as I was telling someone else earlier today, I am not going to apologize for my feelings when it comes to my son, or anyone else. As I have said, I have a soft tender heart, its a virtue that the Lord has given to me.
While chatting with another friend last night she shared this with me: I have another friend whose child has diabetes. I have seen what they have gone through and my heart bleeds for them. Their daughter has to have an insiline pack on her belly all the time and inject it at different intervels during the day. She has been in the hospital and almost lost her. I can't imagine the fear they must feel in what could happen. But that is what friends are for... to cry with us and to feel our pain. We need each other. And when we have compassion for one another that is when we are most lilke Jesus.
The last time I wrote on feelings, it was simply titled "Compassion". What is that? Here's the definition of compassion: Compassion is a virtue — one in which the emotional capacities of empathy and sympathy (for the suffering of others) are regarded as a part of love itself, and a cornerstone of greater social interconnection and humanism — foundational to the highest principles in philosophy, society, and personhood.
I'll give you a few seconds to ponder and chew on that one. Go back and read it over again if you need to.
Most who know me, know I have a very tender heart. It doesn't take much to make me teary eyed. And it doesn't always have to be something sad. I have shed many tears that were happy tears. Is that a problem that I have a soft heart? It shouldn't be. I'm not blind, I've seen the look on some people's faces when I start getting teary eyed about something. Its a look of "Oh good grief, here she goes again!!!" Well, to that I say...."WHATEVER!" That's just who I am. Its the way that the Lord made me and wired me to be. It simply means that he gave me a compassionate heart.
I don't have to know someone to show compassion for them. I don't have to KNOW what they are dealing with. It does help to know though, so that I know what how to lift them up in prayer. I myself have been known to have a conversation with people and I can see the tears well up in their eyes. And then of course, here come the water works for myself. But that's what we are to do. Listen, have compassion, and love one another.
New International Version (NIV)Luke 6:31
31 Do to others as you would have them do to you
.Is that really so hard to do? Believe me, its NOT hard. I've had people in the past that I have had words with, and just not gotten along with them. I prayed and asked the Lord to help me with that. I have gone to that person, apologized for the bad attitude and asked for forgiveness. Was that hard? Uh, YA..its called letting go of pride and letting your guard down. But it goes along with Luke 6:31..b/c you treat others the way you want to be treated. I've heard people quote that, and they certainly don't practice it.
The whole point in me writing about this again, is because of the fact that as I have already said, I have a very tender heart. And when I hear of someone losing their battle, with the same disease that my son fights every single day, the compassion doesnt just go away. Instead it explodes.
Since June of 2000, I have met several families, who are also the parents of kids with diabetes. They are the ONLY ones who REALLY understand what its like to have a child with diabetes. The doctors don't understand--they say they do, but really? Do THEY really? Unless you live with it in your home, its really hard to know just what its like. I'm very thankful to have these people in my life--its not an accident. God places people in our lives for a reason.
Every minute across the world, 6 people die of diabetes… Either directly, or indirectly as the result of a complication. In total this disease is therefore the cause of almost 4 million deaths per year! Which is as many as those caused by AIDS. These are the figures put forward by the World Health Organization and the International Diabetes Federation (the IDF). It’s a genuine massacre which shows no sign of stopping http://www.destinationsante.com/
In the last 24 hours, there is a family who is hurting, and grieving for the loss of their loved one. Parents have lost a son, a sister has lost her brother, kids have lost their daddy and friends have lost a friend. That my friends, is sad. Although at the same time, we can take comfort that he is resting in the arms of Jesus and that he has a new body that is whole and he is no longer in any pain.
I have been talking to this young man's mom for a few weeks now, thanks to Face Book, I was able to find her and get in touch with her. I'd been wanting to get in touch with her for some time and wasn't sure how to. I found her on FB and was thrilled. I do not think it was an accident that I was able to find her on facebook. You see, this mom is a mom just like myself--she has fought the same fight that I fight every day, the same fight that I have fought every day since June of 2000. She knows how I feel. She knows the hurt that I feel and the anxiety that I have as I watch my kid grow up with something that I can't take away from him. I can't fix it for him. What I can do is be there for him, pray for him that he will just accept his health. I was given this child, to take care of, for such a time as this. The Lord KNEW before He gave me my son, just what road lied ahead of us. He knew. He's not going to give us anything more than He thinks we can handle. IT takes a special person to be the parent of a child with diabetes. Its a tough job, and obviously the Lord thought I could do the job. :)
Am I trying to take the sadness and heartache and turn it around on myself and my own family? Absolutely NOT. The whole reason for me to even write this is because of the fact that my heart truly ACHES for them. When I first heard he was so seriously ill and in the hospital, my heart just hurt for them. He had a stroke that was the result of Juvenile Diabetes. Just a few weeks ago, I learned of another young lady, who is the same age as my son, who went to bed one night, seemed fine, and never woke up the next morning. I learned yesterday of THREE other people just this past week, who have passed away, due to complications from diabetes.
A parent should never have to bury their child. I've heard that said several times since I was a kid growing up. We know that this world is not our home. Our life here on earth will not last forever, and that is the way that the good Lord intended things to be.
While you might think this was just a lot of jibber jabber, to me it was not. Its simply stating how I feel about things. And I as I was telling someone else earlier today, I am not going to apologize for my feelings when it comes to my son, or anyone else. As I have said, I have a soft tender heart, its a virtue that the Lord has given to me.
While chatting with another friend last night she shared this with me: I have another friend whose child has diabetes. I have seen what they have gone through and my heart bleeds for them. Their daughter has to have an insiline pack on her belly all the time and inject it at different intervels during the day. She has been in the hospital and almost lost her. I can't imagine the fear they must feel in what could happen. But that is what friends are for... to cry with us and to feel our pain. We need each other. And when we have compassion for one another that is when we are most lilke Jesus.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Compassion.......
In the light of some things that have happened in the last few weeks, my heart is just so heavy for so many. Ive learned of different things that diferent people are going through and dealing with and my heart just aches for them. And that being said, its not said lightly. My heart litterally ACHES for them. They have lost friends, family members, aquaintances, co-workers. Knowing that so many are hurting emotionally breaks my heart.
Why do I feel this way? Why is it that knowing someone has passed away affect me the way it does? Why does it matter? And especially when its someone that I have never met? I'll tell you why...its called COMPASSION.
Have you ever stopped and looked up the definition of compassion is?
Here it is: compassion: a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is
stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering.
My mother called me a few weeks ago, to let me know that a dear church member was in the hospital and she was very ill. It happened suddenly, so it was a bit of a shock. It was one of those "Oh my!!" responces when she told me. My heart just sank. This woman was one of my Sunday School teachers. I was taken back to memories of all of us girls sitting around our room and her teaching the lesson. She was such a Godly woman. She was one of the ladies at church who were SOO SUPER excited when they learned I was finally pregnant again. And when we found out we were having a girl--she was ecstatic!
There is one day in particular that I saw her in WalMart. She stopped to chat, and check out Tobi sitting in her car seat. She asked how my mom was doing. She looked at me and said, "I just love your mamma! She is one of the most spiritual people I know. I really look up to her." Later when I talked to my mom, I couldnt hardly tell her because it choked me up. And when I did manage to get it out, then it choked my mom up.
Since her passing, I have learned of several other people who have passed away. And again, my heart is heavy. I have heard of about 5 other people who have passed away in the last 2 weeks or so. Two of them hit me really hard. I don't 'know' either of them. But hearing of their deaths hit me hard just the same as it would, had I known them.
Anytime I hear of a death, as I said, it breaks my heart. I KNOW that this life that we live in, is not forever. There is a beginning and an end to every life. Thats the way our Heavenly Father created the world. Without HIM, there would be nothing. There would be no sun, moon, stars, mountains, trees, oceans, or people.
My best friend and her family were greatly affected by a sudden loss of a close friend of their family. It was a complete shock to everyone when they heard what had happened.
When she was telling me about it, I just shook my head. I just couldn't believe what I was hearing. And one of my first thoughts was WHY? This kid had everything going for him. And he was fresh out of college, planning on marrying and starting a family. Why, why, why, why, WHY?
I was with my friend when she broke the news to her son. And it broke my heart even more as I sat and listened to her telling him the news. I felt so awkward being there for something so 'personal' but at the same time, I could clearly hear the Holy Spirit telling me, "Its Ok! She needs you here right now!" I couldn't say anything. I didnt know WHAT to say. So I just sat, and I listened and I prayed silently as I sat.
When I finally left and headed to my parents house to pick up my kids, my mind was going at what seemed, a hundred miles an hour. I just kept hearing all the details of this horrible trajedy over and over in my head. And this kids family, oh my gosh, my heart just ached for them. And the whole time Im thinking about all of this, I am thinking about how I would feel if it were me and my family? What if it was close friends of ours? Close friends that may as well be family. We have a few friends that are just that close.
By the time I got to my folks house, I was having a very hard time holding myself together. I walked in the house, very quiet. I didnt say a whole lot to anyone. I'd been there about 5 minutes when I finally managed to start telling them what had happened. And I could NOT hold it together. I lost it. I was so overcome with emotion for this family and for my friends, that I just cried.
Then my mind started to wonder back a few weeks and all the emotions I felt when I learned of another death just made my heart ache even more. It was a little more, what I would call, 'closer to home' for me. Why is that? Because the disease that I hate and loathe with every breath that I take, had taken another life. And this young life was only 13. Just one year older than my son. Just one year older than my son, who also has this same disease. Learning about this young man's passing hit me like a ton of bricks. I wanted to grab the phone and call this kid's mother. But I had no clue who she was. I wanted to be able to just embrace her with the tightest hug I could give her. But again, I didn't know her.
I managed to find her, thanks to Face Book. Ah...the age of social networking. What did we do before Facebook, Myspace, or Twitter? I sent this mom a friend request and she accepted. She didnt have to. In fact, Im sure she thought, "Who are you and what do you want?" But, she did accept and I was glad she did. I have read her fb updates daily since that day. I sent her a few emails and gave her my condolances. Two or three days passed and I sent her another email. I contemplated it for a while and I finally just gave in and asked her the question that weighed so heavy on my mind. Why? And what happened?
I'd already read his obituary online. THAT in itself made me just ache all over. And when I read the words, 'complications of type 1 diabetes' it just made that ache even more intense. All that ran through my head was again, WHY? Was he sick? Was it sudden? Was it DKA? And again, I wanted to just pick up the phone and talk with her, or reach through my computer and just hug her as tight as I could.
I finally gave in and I emailed her and just point blank said, "I have to ask; I have to know, what happened?" After I got finished typing the email, I sat for several minutes before I hit the submit button. I thought to myself, "Is she going to respond? Is it going to make her angry that I've asked this question?! Is she going to respond, and if she responds, is she going to go off and tell me its none of her business? She didn't have to respond at all.
But she did. And I am thankful that she did.
I wasnt looking for an answer to try to convince myself that its never going to happen to my son. I contacted her because while I do not know exactly how she feels, I have the deepest sympathy for her and her family. And I have that sympathy because I myself could be affected by the same situation. I have that sympathy because I have read countless stories of people who have kids with the same disease that entered my families lives ten short years ago. I say short, but its actually been ten long years. At times it seems like it was just a few months ago. At times, it seems like forever ago.
All of these different situations make a person stop and think. Or at least it should make a person stop and think. Life is a gift from God. And its too short to take people for granted. No one knows from one day to the next what will happen. No one knows that but the Lord himself. One thing for sure is, you better know exactly where your going when your time comes. Don't sit around and just "think" about where your going. Make sure you KNOW where your going.
The one thing that I KNOW is this: That even in the midst of all the trials and storms that I go through, that my Saviour is right there with me. And there are days that are HARD to get through, for various reasons. And when I hear of a passing of a loved one, no matter who it is, that one day, they will be seen again.
My heart ACHES every single day for my grandmothers. One has been gone since October of 1993. To this day, I when I've got news or something exciting that I want to share with someone, my thoughts always go to her. Or, when one of my kids does something so incredibly hilarious that I know she would have cracked up at, I just smile because I can see her face.
My other grandmother passed away in 2006. Tobi was just 8 months old.
THAT hurts my heart terribly. Tobi was her last great grandbaby. To this day, I remember when I found out I was pregnant with Tobi. Granny had battled Alzheimers for a while already. We were at her house one day, and she was talking about getting rid of this and that. She proceeded to tell me, "Im just not going to be around much longer, and Im ready to go home." I tried to compose myself but I could not. When I managed to do just that, I just looked at her and said, "Granny, you can't go anytime soon." She proceeded to tell me that she wasnt going to be around forever. And I said, "I know it, but you can't leave us just yet!" Then she asked why? And I told her, "Because Im gonna have another baby, and you have to stick around to meet him/her!!" She was thrilled!
We were blessed to have her around for 8 more months, after Tobi was born. I couldn't wait for Granny to meet her. I can still see the look on her face when she saw Tobi for the first time. Her eyes lit up and she said, "OH! Look at her~Its Lesley!" She thought Tobi was me. One of my favorite pics in Tobi's baby book is of Granny holding Tobi. She has the biggest smile on her face.
To this day I can't talk about Granny, or her being gone, without choking up. Im sitting here bawling like a baby right now. I can't sit and talk about any of our family members who have already passed on. I can't talk about a lot of things, without crying. I can't sit and listen to the radio without bursting into tears when I hear certain songs. I can't listen to other people talk about different stories, without getting all teary eyed.
Why is that? Because that's how God created me. He created me with a compassionate heart. And for that, I will Praise Him daily for the gift of compassion.
Why do I feel this way? Why is it that knowing someone has passed away affect me the way it does? Why does it matter? And especially when its someone that I have never met? I'll tell you why...its called COMPASSION.
Have you ever stopped and looked up the definition of compassion is?
Here it is: compassion: a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is
stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering.
My mother called me a few weeks ago, to let me know that a dear church member was in the hospital and she was very ill. It happened suddenly, so it was a bit of a shock. It was one of those "Oh my!!" responces when she told me. My heart just sank. This woman was one of my Sunday School teachers. I was taken back to memories of all of us girls sitting around our room and her teaching the lesson. She was such a Godly woman. She was one of the ladies at church who were SOO SUPER excited when they learned I was finally pregnant again. And when we found out we were having a girl--she was ecstatic!
There is one day in particular that I saw her in WalMart. She stopped to chat, and check out Tobi sitting in her car seat. She asked how my mom was doing. She looked at me and said, "I just love your mamma! She is one of the most spiritual people I know. I really look up to her." Later when I talked to my mom, I couldnt hardly tell her because it choked me up. And when I did manage to get it out, then it choked my mom up.
Since her passing, I have learned of several other people who have passed away. And again, my heart is heavy. I have heard of about 5 other people who have passed away in the last 2 weeks or so. Two of them hit me really hard. I don't 'know' either of them. But hearing of their deaths hit me hard just the same as it would, had I known them.
Anytime I hear of a death, as I said, it breaks my heart. I KNOW that this life that we live in, is not forever. There is a beginning and an end to every life. Thats the way our Heavenly Father created the world. Without HIM, there would be nothing. There would be no sun, moon, stars, mountains, trees, oceans, or people.
My best friend and her family were greatly affected by a sudden loss of a close friend of their family. It was a complete shock to everyone when they heard what had happened.
When she was telling me about it, I just shook my head. I just couldn't believe what I was hearing. And one of my first thoughts was WHY? This kid had everything going for him. And he was fresh out of college, planning on marrying and starting a family. Why, why, why, why, WHY?
I was with my friend when she broke the news to her son. And it broke my heart even more as I sat and listened to her telling him the news. I felt so awkward being there for something so 'personal' but at the same time, I could clearly hear the Holy Spirit telling me, "Its Ok! She needs you here right now!" I couldn't say anything. I didnt know WHAT to say. So I just sat, and I listened and I prayed silently as I sat.
When I finally left and headed to my parents house to pick up my kids, my mind was going at what seemed, a hundred miles an hour. I just kept hearing all the details of this horrible trajedy over and over in my head. And this kids family, oh my gosh, my heart just ached for them. And the whole time Im thinking about all of this, I am thinking about how I would feel if it were me and my family? What if it was close friends of ours? Close friends that may as well be family. We have a few friends that are just that close.
By the time I got to my folks house, I was having a very hard time holding myself together. I walked in the house, very quiet. I didnt say a whole lot to anyone. I'd been there about 5 minutes when I finally managed to start telling them what had happened. And I could NOT hold it together. I lost it. I was so overcome with emotion for this family and for my friends, that I just cried.
Then my mind started to wonder back a few weeks and all the emotions I felt when I learned of another death just made my heart ache even more. It was a little more, what I would call, 'closer to home' for me. Why is that? Because the disease that I hate and loathe with every breath that I take, had taken another life. And this young life was only 13. Just one year older than my son. Just one year older than my son, who also has this same disease. Learning about this young man's passing hit me like a ton of bricks. I wanted to grab the phone and call this kid's mother. But I had no clue who she was. I wanted to be able to just embrace her with the tightest hug I could give her. But again, I didn't know her.
I managed to find her, thanks to Face Book. Ah...the age of social networking. What did we do before Facebook, Myspace, or Twitter? I sent this mom a friend request and she accepted. She didnt have to. In fact, Im sure she thought, "Who are you and what do you want?" But, she did accept and I was glad she did. I have read her fb updates daily since that day. I sent her a few emails and gave her my condolances. Two or three days passed and I sent her another email. I contemplated it for a while and I finally just gave in and asked her the question that weighed so heavy on my mind. Why? And what happened?
I'd already read his obituary online. THAT in itself made me just ache all over. And when I read the words, 'complications of type 1 diabetes' it just made that ache even more intense. All that ran through my head was again, WHY? Was he sick? Was it sudden? Was it DKA? And again, I wanted to just pick up the phone and talk with her, or reach through my computer and just hug her as tight as I could.
I finally gave in and I emailed her and just point blank said, "I have to ask; I have to know, what happened?" After I got finished typing the email, I sat for several minutes before I hit the submit button. I thought to myself, "Is she going to respond? Is it going to make her angry that I've asked this question?! Is she going to respond, and if she responds, is she going to go off and tell me its none of her business? She didn't have to respond at all.
But she did. And I am thankful that she did.
I wasnt looking for an answer to try to convince myself that its never going to happen to my son. I contacted her because while I do not know exactly how she feels, I have the deepest sympathy for her and her family. And I have that sympathy because I myself could be affected by the same situation. I have that sympathy because I have read countless stories of people who have kids with the same disease that entered my families lives ten short years ago. I say short, but its actually been ten long years. At times it seems like it was just a few months ago. At times, it seems like forever ago.
All of these different situations make a person stop and think. Or at least it should make a person stop and think. Life is a gift from God. And its too short to take people for granted. No one knows from one day to the next what will happen. No one knows that but the Lord himself. One thing for sure is, you better know exactly where your going when your time comes. Don't sit around and just "think" about where your going. Make sure you KNOW where your going.
The one thing that I KNOW is this: That even in the midst of all the trials and storms that I go through, that my Saviour is right there with me. And there are days that are HARD to get through, for various reasons. And when I hear of a passing of a loved one, no matter who it is, that one day, they will be seen again.
My heart ACHES every single day for my grandmothers. One has been gone since October of 1993. To this day, I when I've got news or something exciting that I want to share with someone, my thoughts always go to her. Or, when one of my kids does something so incredibly hilarious that I know she would have cracked up at, I just smile because I can see her face.
My other grandmother passed away in 2006. Tobi was just 8 months old.
THAT hurts my heart terribly. Tobi was her last great grandbaby. To this day, I remember when I found out I was pregnant with Tobi. Granny had battled Alzheimers for a while already. We were at her house one day, and she was talking about getting rid of this and that. She proceeded to tell me, "Im just not going to be around much longer, and Im ready to go home." I tried to compose myself but I could not. When I managed to do just that, I just looked at her and said, "Granny, you can't go anytime soon." She proceeded to tell me that she wasnt going to be around forever. And I said, "I know it, but you can't leave us just yet!" Then she asked why? And I told her, "Because Im gonna have another baby, and you have to stick around to meet him/her!!" She was thrilled!
We were blessed to have her around for 8 more months, after Tobi was born. I couldn't wait for Granny to meet her. I can still see the look on her face when she saw Tobi for the first time. Her eyes lit up and she said, "OH! Look at her~Its Lesley!" She thought Tobi was me. One of my favorite pics in Tobi's baby book is of Granny holding Tobi. She has the biggest smile on her face.
To this day I can't talk about Granny, or her being gone, without choking up. Im sitting here bawling like a baby right now. I can't sit and talk about any of our family members who have already passed on. I can't talk about a lot of things, without crying. I can't sit and listen to the radio without bursting into tears when I hear certain songs. I can't listen to other people talk about different stories, without getting all teary eyed.
Why is that? Because that's how God created me. He created me with a compassionate heart. And for that, I will Praise Him daily for the gift of compassion.
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