“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:11-13 NIV

Undoubtedly, 2020 has brought much social unrest, racial discord, economic downturns, stay-at-home orders, mask wearing, natural disasters and unfathomable loss and grief to our country. Despite the unrest and despair, I choose to stay positive and focus on the good. Because my distractions have been minimized, I am grateful for the quiet moments and simple things in life: fresh flowers, soft pajamas, scented candles, Yogi Honey Chai tea, listening to music, long walks in my neighborhood waving at my neighbors, listening to a new Audible book, enjoying a webinar learning something new, meaningful discussions with my women’s ministry, deep conversations with my sons, Facetime and giggles with my grandbabies, chats and lots of laughter with my sister-friends, or making vegetable soup and grilled cheese sandwiches while feeling the closeness of my mother. Because of my prior state of busyness, I have not always taken the time to “smell the roses,” but I now take the time to enjoy these unassuming moments.

We are quickly approaching our season of Thanksgiving and although life may look bleak at times, let’s change our perception of how we look at the things around us: babies are still being born, couples are still exchanging wedding vows, new homes are still being built, entrepreneurs are taking the leap of faith starting new businesses, authors are still writing books, healing is taking place, and promotions are in the making. What you see totally depends on what lens you are looking through!

I am truly grateful for my life, but it has not always been easy. Through the difficult times, I had to constantly look out of a positive lens. In my book, Sandpaper & Pearls, I share with my readers several negative experiences which I refer to as my sandpaper moments – these experiences helped to transform my rough edges into smooth ones. Recently, my sister-friends hosted a Virtual Book Celebration honoring my new title as author. With so much tearing down of one another, it was such a blessing to have positive women celebrating and uplifting another woman for her accomplishments. We had an awesome discussion on faith, forgiveness, healing, and transformation. After our discussion, I offered the following perspectives from my book that can assist readers in maintaining a positive attitude:

• Don’t allow your beginning to dictate your end.
• It is never too late to succeed.
• Know who you are in Christ; do not allow man to put labels on you.
• Never label or brand yourself with a current situation (i.e., divorced, broke, sick, etc.)
• Seek therapy if you need it. Get to the root of your dysfunction.
• The root of your dysfunction could have originated in childhood.
• Embrace your past and learn from it; don’t stay stuck in it.
• Whatever you are struggling with, speak it. Don’t allow it to hold you hostage.
• Forgive yourself and forgive those who hurt you.
• You will make mistakes along the way; pick yourself up, dust yourself off and keep it moving.
• Every unfortunate situation in your life is a life lesson. Find the lesson. It will all be used for your purpose.
• Drown out negative chatter.
• Cultivate genuine friendships.
• Surround yourself with positive energy.
• Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you.
• Always be willing to learn something new.
• Don’t be afraid of rejection or failure.
• Invest in you—practice self-care.
• Share your gifts and talents with others. Serving others is healing.
• Look back and remember who God placed along your path. You may not have had who you wanted there, but God had a good replacement.
• Everyone won’t celebrate your accomplishments—be grateful for those who do.
• Find your purpose. What is God calling you to do?
• We don’t go through troubles for our own benefit—it is to benefit others.
• What will your legacy be? What do you want to leave behind for your children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren to remember?

During trying times, it is essential to remain positive and look through your positive lens. When feeling negative thoughts, I challenge you to serve someone, uplift or celebrate someone – just take the time to make someone else’s day. You would be surprised how good it will make you feel.

Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving!!! Stay safe and well.

If you are looking for a good read and need words of encouragement and inspiration during the holiday, you can find Sandpaper & Pearls on Amazon.com. https://www.amazon.com/Sandpaper-Pearls-Personal-Journey-Healing/dp/0578755076/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1MCQM1LJKG9MN&dchild=1&keywords=cassandra+savage&qid=1604321066&sprefix=cassandra+savage%2Caps%2C162&sr=8-1

If you are interested in a free 30-min coaching session, book an appointment at calendly.com/new-wine-consulting.