Like most people, I was very excited for 2020. The year started with me being very rested and rejuvenated. I had 2 weeks off work for the holidays at the end of 2019. I was growing closer with the Lord and walking in purpose by encouraging others daily to pursue their goals and dreams. January is also my birth month and that brings excitement on another level as I love celebrating my birthday.
I had my goals written down and so far, everything was going according to plan. I was spending daily time with the Lord, exercising three times per week, watching what I eat, and chipping away at debt to be debt free by end of 2020. I have great friends and family to enjoy life with. I’m traveling throughout the US in a position that I love and have my sights set on the “next phase of my career”. Everything was going well and smooth sailing; until business slowed down, meetings cancelled, hotels closing, and Covid-19 with Shelter in Place became the new normal.
In March at the beginning of everything I was very optimistic. I still had my health, career and bills were being paid. I found peace in the fact that I wasn’t alone and as a country we were all experiencing the same thing. The government passed the CARES Act which afforded me an extra $600 in unemployment benefits ensuring that financially I would be okay. I was placed on a 90-day furlough which was extended as the pandemic went on and I found myself in a place of uncertainty and the unknown. It felt like everything I had known and held onto was uprooted from me. I’ve only had my faith to see me through these tough times and there are times where my faith seems cloudy. I’ve wondered where is God in all of this? Where am I in all of this? What do I do now? Where do I go from here? The path and goals that I’ve envisioned for my life were a little harder to see. So, what do I do? I’m trying to encourage myself and remind myself that our God is faithful. He who began a good work in you will see it through until the day of completion when Christ Jesus returns (Philippians 1:6).
I wanted to share some of the reminders and encouragement that I’m telling myself during these tough times:
- God is faithful! He won’t place more on us then we can bare, and all things work together for good for those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose.
- Enjoy the journey. Success isn’t a destination. Most times we wish and wait for everything in our lives to be perfectly aligned before we allow ourselves to breathe and have fun. Nothing will be perfect, the perfect time is right now.
- Spend time daily with God. Be honest with what I’m feeling and allow His word to provide comfort and peace to my mind, spirit and soul.
- It’s ok if every box on my to-do list isn’t checked off. There are days when I’m super productive and days when I do a little and then just want to watch tv. They are both ok.
- I just need one yes. As I am applying for jobs and receiving thanks but no thanks e-mails, I only need one yes. Just one opportunity that is for me. So, I don’t get hung up on the no, I push forward to receive a yes.
- God is my source and provider. God still works miracles and He supplies all my needs.
- This is NOT the end. It’s a detour in the journey on your road to success.
- It’s ok to dream again! Allow God to hold the pen and guide you every day.
- Be disciplined, consistent and decided every day. Some days will be better than others and sometimes you may not feel like doing something; but follow God’s leading and bring your feelings with you.
- It won’t happen overnight! Dig your heels in and stay planted. You will see all your dreams come to pass.
Finally, remember that God can do exceedingly, abundantly, above and beyond all that we can ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).
With Love,
Marshay
