Spiritual Mom RSS

The Spiritual Mom is a daily weblog by mother, politican and community advocate Jeanne Blain, the mother of six successful children, eight grandchildren and an inspiration and support to hundreds of people throughout the country. Email Jeanne at blain@sharontelephone.com

Archive

Jun
29th
Wed
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WEARY OF WORRY

Worry, what a waste of time…let me ask you, does it solve anything? did it give you  peace or answers for you need ? I am sure your answers will be a resounding  NO!  Because worry only causes confusion, depression, frustration and a splitting headache..but most of all, as you figured out by now that going around the circle about the same issue only makes the issue bigger and bigger.

 I  have wasted years worrying  about things that seemed so enormous that  a solution evaded me. I refuse to participate in that activity at this time of my life.

 I hope to share my findings with you with the hope that perhaps this will help at least one person, then this post will achieve its purpose.

 I found the answer in my mid forties as at that time my life was in such shambles I did not know where to turn, finances were not meeting the expenses even with my working 3 jobs, and as a single mom I still had the responsibility of taking care of my children’s needs. where to go? As a last resort I turned to God for my answers, that should have been the first place I turned ( DUH)..any way, I begged, cried, shouted out to Him, no answers..then, I turned to His Word. As I was a novice in the power of His word at the time, I turned to a page where the quote was “Now thanks be unto God, who always causes us to triumph….” I didn’t feel triumphant but it kinda clicked something in me..As I studied on I found that the biggest battles we fight are the ones in our minds, whaterver you allow to captivate your minds will rule your life..so for step one; I decided to renew my mind. When negative thought would come in I referred to the scripture I learned and refused to give it power over my new found peace. through out all these years I studied and noted that when ever I stuck with the principles of His word the battle of worry became less and less.

 Did the answers come immediately? Heck NO ! but they did come just at the right time…did they rain out of the sky…NO, but my mind was clear, without worry I was able to see the answers and act on them as needed..Do I believe in miracles YUP, In fact I depend on them.. Have I every received a miracle from God…constantly!  Because I know He is the author the my new found peace, but most of all because He loves me, that is why He is always there for me.

  So my friends know this; worry will not add one single day to your life, it is a thief and has no power over you…You are in charge of your mind, not worry…just like your computer, reprogram, refresh and go on with the peace that God has your back.

        If you would like for me to post more on this topic please let me know, as what I have learned in all these years would require it to be a small novel

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Jun
26th
Sun
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SMALL TOWN , USA.

I remember when I lived in a big city, the hustle and bustle, the energy, the stress, were all something I enjoyed very much. But when I went to the movies or seen a show on t.v that was staged in a small town, I longed for that serenity that a small town provided.

 Well, my dear friends, I am living that serenity..This morning I took my walk around town as part of the fitness program I wrote about in my previous blog. Besides being amazed at the beauty and peacefulness of it all, the birds singing their song, the gentle breezes, the different flowers and landscaping, I realized that I am really blessed..I have lived in cities in different parts of the world,  and the United States. But I  have never felt the peace or camaraderie as I have felt here, as I was walking at least 3 people stopped their car and asked why I was limping (nasty back), I was able to congratulate a gentleman at becoming a grandparent, and waved to at least 5 people ..Ah, small towns..

  I realized that blessings are all around us, we just have to be aware of them.,if I  need  the buzz of city life, I can travel 1 hour in either direction to find it, that urge usually last for about 4 hours, then  back to my small town to unwind.

 This blog is really not that inspirational I realize, I suppose that the point I am trying to convey here is find your peaceful place and enjoy relish every moment in it

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Jun
24th
Fri
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MOTHER AND DAUGHTER

  When does a woman stop being  mama’s little girl?  When does mom stop telling you how you should dress, what you should do or be or better yet, when do mothers and daughters just become equals as women or just friends, and how about this,  when do you stop walking on egg shells in order not to upset her possibly severing the relationship?

 When we were little girls mom taught us all she knew, to the best of her ability, following the pattern she was raised with. As we became teenagers mom  became an ogre and loved at the same time. As we approached adult hood she is now “mom” with some aptitude toward the issues of life, wisdom, and can become your best pal. But the question is how does she let go?

The relationship between mother and daughter is very fragile. It takes a special mom to learn how to let go. In my case my mom is 86 years old and I am 66..we had issues in that department for so many years, but when I hit 50 years of age I took the scary step of telling her that I am a grown up and did not appreciate being told what I was doing wrong each time I called her, that I loved her very much but this constant barrage of criticism had to stop. I asked her why could’ t we start our relationship as mother and daughter, as well as two women with separate opinions. After a few minutes of silence, she agreed and even apologized…So have things changed? for the most part, yes. Does she ever fall back into the old mode, at times. But this time I don’t hold back and express my emotions right away, once it ‘s out, who ever needs to apologize does and we go on.

  I have 4 daughters, I try my best to let them be the women they were created to be…If an opinion is needed I will give it..otherwise I only make suggestions. I realized that they are adults and very intelligent, and the mistakes they might make are their own. If they need me I’ll be there otherwise the have to lay their own path. After all it is their life..(plus it takes the heat off me)

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Jun
23rd
Thu
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HOPE

A four letter word  that caries so much weight…Where would we be without it, and why is it so hard to hold on to?

 I kinda envy this generation because they have the luxury to hope,dream,and see the dream come to pass..My generation really did not have that luxury…You married, had children, your husband followed in his dad’s footsteps and life went on..

  Today, girls  and boys have dreams and the support of their families to achieve their goals.. I see this generation of young women, striving working so hard to become individuals running and starting companies. I can’t imagine the stress and obstacles they have to overcome. On my recent trip to Los Angeles I witnessed how these ladies stratesise and work out the stumbling blocks in their plan. I can see in their eyes the glimmer of success and the sadness of shattered hope….”When will that dream materialize” Why does it take so long?

  So I kinda want to address these young ladies..First, I want to tell you how much I respect your tenacity..NEVER give up, no matter what..Know that the darkness of an obstacle is always subject to change, light always overshadows the dark.

   I felt that way when I was nearing my 60’s..although not comparable to your situations, the despair is the same….60’s were approaching and, as I had posted before I saw life as I knew it slipping away.. Energy, the creativity etc. I thought would disappear as time went by, so I had a choice set before me do I succumb or do I fight ? I chose to fight, I did not lose hope in ME. I got my eyes off what I could not do, and started my journey to what I want to do. I became involved in our community by volunteering for different projects, ran for election (with a hot pink campaign sign) and won by one vote, as my terms expired I chose not to run again, so offered my services and now deliver ” meals on wheels” and of course still help in as many projects as I want…I got a tattoo, rode a Harley, learned how to snokel and am learning to play the guitar.At this post I am working on improving my self through better physical health . I other words I will NOT be defeated!

 Was there ever any disappointments in my walk ? sure lots of them, but every time hope looked lost, I did not let the dream slip away. A dream is always stronger than any obstacle.. In fact sometimes the more the obstacles the stronger the fight. In one instance,  I  waited almost 20 years for a specific dream to come true..AND BY GOLLY I GOT IT…

  Ladies your accomplishments do not define who you are. You are in charge, never let anything or any one tell you it can’t be done..or you are not doing it right…The dream is your not anyone else’s.. It will come to pass IF you don’t quit!

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Jun
21st
Tue
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HELLO

   Recently took a trip to Los Angeles to see my daughter. Her name is Patricia. She is not only my daughter but is also an inspiration for me..She is the type of woman who has a goal and has the “bull dog ” tenacity to see it come to pass in her life…

  But this is not the topic of this blog…I recently hit my 66th birthday and approaching 67 rapidly and I find myself not knowing where I fit in…I am not ready for the polyester circuit, but the new trend of clothing is certainly not applicable to me either…Mentally, I feel no older than 40 ( In fact I have celebrated my 41st birthday for 25 years). I think I got kinda depressed as I did not know how to remedy this issue..

  Along came Patricia with her “you can do it” attitude, which I might add gave me the boost to move in a positive mode instead of the “woe is me” mode.

Chapter one: I enrolled in an excersie program appropriate for my age and considering a nasty back issue and arthritic joints I joined “Curves”, the excersise regiment is productive along with being gentle. I have been doing it for the last 3 months anf feel much better,I also notice that my joints and stamina are much improved.

Chapter two: Now the fashion issue…We All know that there are no magazines promoting clothing lines for women my age that are “youthful” looking as well as stylish. As we get older parts of our body droop, sag, and shift…True there are clothes out there that would fit us, but how would the look on us is a whole different issue.. When we wnet shopping I had an outfit on that I thought looked realy great on me…I felt I was stylin’ ….but NO!!!! Patricia  chose some tops for me and had me try them on.( I hate trying on clothes) I could not believe the difference..The lenght of the shirt made all the difference in the world..It gave me lenght in the torso and hid those tell tale bulges..the shirt had stripes  which thought would make me look larger in the torso…but to my surprise, it also hid the tell tale signs of Godiva chocolates.  In fact I looked “Smokin”.. What I have learned from all of this is: try on the clothes, the lenght of the garment is very important…Thanks Patricia.

Chapter three: Make up, hair, and shoe…..with the shoes I have learned that stylish can also be comfortable…I walked all over the Beverly Hills mall and my back did not hurt at all…I even wore a small heel..

As far as make up we had a make up artist who taught me less is best…a tinted moisturiser, a little blush and “voila” stella stunning…and yea my friends, my toes are painted with black polish and really looks good..

   thanks for listening to my rants and I hope it helps someone.

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Jul
20th
Mon
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GOOD MORNING

 I know it has been a while since I have blogged, but so much has happened in these last few months..We are having things done and redone in our house, which I might add has been very exciting for me… I love new beginings…what was old and worn has become brand new and exciting, all it took some imagination and a few bucks..( My house is over 100 years old)

  I find that ever day is an opportunity for a new begining..Yesterday is behind us, what ever happened is in the past and we get to start over again. How wonderful is this life?!

 Now, an explanation for such a long absence..First.. Thank God, my grandson’s surgery and recovery is complete and behind us, he is doing great and celebrating his 4th month here on earth healed and whole. Second… my stepfather’s 80th birthday turned out wonderful and it was a blessing to all of us to be able to see his happiness.. My dear friend’s liver issues are held at bay and she is still the fiestyand sassy person she has always been..I had been helping my other friend withher new” Sweet Shop” and it has become a great success with a good stable foundation of “regular” customers.  In fact, I have been so busy, I am never home. My husband has recomended that I have” my people” call “his people” so that we can have a meal together..I didn’t particularly like retirement at its onset, but I find myself busier than I have ever been.

  As I have posted before , I love new projects or challanges..So  I look at this new day as an opportunity to change. whether it be myself or my surroundings, I look to where I can bless someone perhaps in need or” just because”…I find that when I keep my eyes in front of my path, instead of  on yesterday the walk is smoother and I am able to avoid the stumbling blocks easier…It takes my mind into a differnet direction of positive thinking..

  I guess as usual , I babbled , sorry….but I love sharing with you…

        It’s 8 A.M and I gotta get movin’ here..So remember hug each other

                                                                          MOM

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Jun
18th
Thu
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HELLO MY TUMBLR FRIENDS

Yes, my dear “Tumblr” friends I am still here..I sure do miss connecting with you, but I have been so busy and in a writing funk… Have you ever had so much on your mind that you can’t seem to get anything accomplished? As I had written before my friend opened a “Sweet Shop” and I had been kept busy with helping her.The shop is a complete success and her stress level has calmed down some..Glad I could help, it sure is nice hearing friends tell you that you are loved, after all isn’t it what we like, being loved and all I had to do was help someone, and it was free! I am finished with decorations for the 4th…now, it’s time just enjoy the place and stay away from the sweets. ARGH, such temptations!!!! For the last few months I can’t seem to get in the groove for anything, i don’t know why, perhaps it’s because I am finally retired and I don’t like it. I start something and not finish it, that is out of the norm for me.I always need something to keep me focused and the retirement screwed up my routine. Also, with my husband being retired and hanging around the house puts me in a frenzy because he is always under foot…has any one out there gone thru the same thing? But on a lighter note, my grandson’s surgery went well and the poor little tyke is so frustrated because of the swelling he can’t see and of course the pain must be so very confusing for a 3 month old. But thank God all is behind him now and recovery is on it’s way. Soon he will be flashing that gorgeous smile of his again…Thank you for the prayers. Today is another day and a new opportunity to bless someone and be blessed by someone..I always try to face each day with joy in my heart and thanksgiving for seeing it arrive…after all the alternative does suck! Have a great day and remember HUG EACH OTHER. mom

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Jun
5th
Fri
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WOMEN IN BUISINESS

 Recently I have been helping a friend who is opening up a sweet shop, her very first business.  The dreams and hope for success are at an all time high and the excitement is every where.  The “Sweet Shop” will be selling doughnuts, rolls and coffee. All items are home made and warm out of the oven as you get them. It has been named THE SHARON SWEET SHOP cute name eh?

   My involvement in the shop is purely grunt work. I have washed, scrubbed,cleaned everything that could be cleaned….I have in my own way tried to support and hold up my friend.

  You know, I wonder,Why  don’t people who have “made” it  in the business world  help out the new starter ups?..especially where women are concerned. I see that there is discrimination against women who are trying to make it on their own, in this day and age, that is a pity.  People like Oprah Winfrey(?), she has been an asset to so many, but what about helping other women who are trying just as hard, using her as an example to become a success in business. Hey, that would be a great idea for a show….Even a mention on  her show would help someone be noticed…Look what she has done for the  unheard of authors, one mention of their book generates much excitement and the author is no longer unknown..Why not do the same with other fields?  just a thought….

   I am not a woman who cares to be in business, I’d rather frequent a place than own it..but I certainly love seeing women conquering the “man’s” world known as business..We are just as able, we also have an unknown secret…common sense, plus we can multi task. Two of my daughters own and successfully run very lucrative businesses and the third is planning her enterprise as we speak…They are always available to someone who needs their help and guidance.. That is what I am talking about. A  large tree is supported by its roots…..So be someones “root” and see the tree growing big and strong producing many branches and much fruit…

   This is just an old lady venting, thanx for listening and remember, HUG EACH OTHER……

                                        LOVE, MOM 

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Jun
4th
Thu
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SPRING IS HERE

  Good morning world!!  It’s 7A.M.  and I have been up for a while. I love that time of the morning because all is quiet and you can hear “life” around you..

   I   have not written in a while for many reasons: first, I was out of town visiting the folks. My dad’s party was a great success and he was elated as he had never had a party in his life..what a pity!  We all made a fuss over him and endured the countless speeches they call “wisdom from an aged person.”  I have noticed that the older one gets, the more opinions one has…and the story changes each time …YOU GOTTA LOVE ‘EM.

   I don’t know if this happens to you, but whenever I come home from a trip, I find myself out of sorts…I can’t seem to get into the groove of my routine..In fact , I get kinds depressed as it were.. I had a few meetings the next day as our village is expanding and trying so hard to grow, but the “snap” did not come back…Who knows!!!!!

       I hate being in these slumps, I am, by far a positive person,  to me “I can” is not a swear word, so these set backs are most annoying.. But enough about me, lets get positive together, let’s lift one another up…..The scriptures tell us to do that very thing..

   I had a friend recently call me and tell me that she hates herself….Why?

      We are such wonderful creatures made with love, for love..Sure,as in my case, you have become a little rounder, things that were “up ” are now down, the face needs Bondo not Botox…but what are your assets? don’t look at the obvious, look at the hidden wonders of you. You have many gifts in you..you have much love to share and your value is without boundaries. Build on these, nothing is impossible for you if you set your mind to it…and when you fail (as I have)…don’t beat yourself up…Pick up and go on with a vengeance…After all, there are 365 days in the year and every day is a brand new day to start again. Never succumb to feelings, remember you are in charge of your body, not the other way around..

      If your down and out, get out there and help someone else who has it worse that you, it helps get you attention of your issues and the answers will come…if that is not a desire for you, then get outside and see that the sun is still shining , the birds are still singing and that they were created just for you…See how important you are!!!

    I guess I’d better stop now. Hug one another.

                                                              mom

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May
22nd
Fri
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HELLO FROM FLORIDA

Hey, I have learned ALL by myself how to get my laptop to work in another state…YEAH, hooray for me…

    Well, as my title suggests, I am in sunny Florida, and as soon as I see the sun, I’ll not be lying..Wouldn’t you know it…we have had rain since we left the midwest… where we left they had sun shine and warmth..NERTZ!!!!!! 

 I guess there is a tropical depression that will last until we go home (of course). Then I suppose the sun will be here again after we leave..The bronze glow I have hoping for will have to wait till later..At least I didn’t have to pay for a room..

  We are all here to celebrate my dad’s birthday, its the big 8…0….I also got to see my new grandson in Alabama…GORGEOUS!!!!!   The poor little tyke has to have major surgery in June..Something having to do with a fused cranium.The front part of his cranium is so fused together that it has affected his facial features..but he is still gorgeous….Would appreciate much prayers for the success of the surgery…

         Now a report on the” E cigarette” regime..Well, I have cut back more than 50% , I was hoping I would have done better, but “baby steps” are a reason for victory as well. I’m sure if I were stronger in that area, I would have been done by now….

          Well my dear friends, I guess I’d better go back to the “500 rummy” marathon…My mom hates to loose, she is so competitive…So a wonder where I get my tenacity for stuff….This has to be our 100th game since we have arrived..Such a thrill….

  Hope you enjoy this 3 day weekend, be safe and rest plenty..

                                                                  mom

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