As I celebrate the life of my grandmother today. I reflect on the type of woman she was as she walked in her journey. Every moment I saw her she was always ready to serve. She was so kind-hearted and welcoming to everyone she came in contact with. She took care of her home and family with everything in her. She had such a giving heart, she would give even when she didn’t have it. She not only honored and respected my grandfather but she also led our family with strength and dignity. She always gave me wisdom and encouragement during my journey and she never judged me. She had a true heart of gold no matter how anyone treated her.
As I look back at the quality of woman she was, she truly represented a proverbs 31 woman. Seeing how her heart and character left such an impact on everyone around her inspires me to be better every day. It made me realize even more how important our character and heart are as we go through the journey of life.
How are you making people feel when you are around them?
Are you leaving an impact on them?
What would you be remembered by?
As you think about those questions, you may not like some of your answers but that’s okay no one is perfect. Choose every day to be a better version of yourself than the day before until it becomes a lifestyle.
As I reflect on my own life, I’ve had plenty of moments where I’ve fallen short of God-like character but I knew that’s not the woman I dreamed to be. So I became more self-aware and created habits that would help change my lifestyle. Every day that we wake up we get another opportunity to be better. We are all a "work in progress" and will continue to be until the day we complete our race. Which is what my grandmother did. Here are a few habits that could help you better your character and leave an impact everywhere you go.
Heart and mind checks
Throughout the day, especially first thing in the morning make sure your heart and mind are in the right place. Check for anger, grudges, fear, insecurities, selfishness, judgment, hurt, jealousy, or just carrying stuff from the previous day. If you find something lingering in your heart and mind take a deep breath and try to reset. Life and emotions can get our hearts out of the right place especially when we’ve been treated unfairly. That’s why it’s important to check our hearts and thoughts throughout the day because what’s in your heart will always come out. I’ve had situations where I was so upset that my words came out faster than I could even think about doing a heart check. Even though I was done wrong in the situation I became disgusted with how I responded each time. I was madder at myself than the situation because I knew I didn’t want to be that woman. So I started doing heart and mind checks when I feel irritated/hurt, before making a decision, and before I respond to people. Sometimes those checks will consist of me just saying “God help me” when I need a quick change :). Take control over what flows out of you.
Have a giving heart
Intentionally find ways to give to others. You never know how someone’s life can change because of your giving. When you create a habit of giving, it becomes natural over time; to the point where you don’t even think about it, it just flows. It doesn’t have to be money. It could be a simple phone call, encouragement, or a hug. I can tell you first-hand that once you start giving generously, God does even more for you.
Be faithful and good to those around you
Show up for people even when they don’t ask. Be willing to serve them. God calls us to love and serve others. Refresh the people you are around.
A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
Proverbs 11:25
Walk in humility
Don’t let the things of this world become a bigger focus than God. Sometimes we start to think we are better than others because of the things we have. But don’t forget the one who blessed you with those things. God loves blessing us with nice things but serving and loving Him and people are above every blessing you can think of. Don’t get so caught up in your blessings you forget the mission. It can all go away. Walking in humility helps us to be more sensitive to those around us.
Show a little mercy
Forgive consistently even when no apology is given. We are all human and we make mistakes. We all have bad days and struggles. Try not to get offended easily, sometimes you have to look past faults. You never know what the other person is battling with. Forgiveness will also set you free and clear your heart of bad feelings. Show mercy the same way God shows it to us.
Be a good steward
Take care of the things, people, and places God put in your life. Give your all and work hard on everything you put your hands to. Don’t be lazy and cheat your way through life. No one may see you do it and It may be small but it’s a reflection of your character and heart. When you hold yourself accountable when no one is looking, God can trust you with more.
Allow people to see that light that’s within you. Don’t let negativity or bad character block the impact you can make on others. It’s not about perfection, it’s about progression and growth. Ultimately if we commit our ways to God, he will do a good work in us. He doesn’t expect you to do it on your own.
Run your race and Leave your mark.
Dedicated to my grandmother Mary
This was beautiful! Sorry about the loss of your grandmother. I'm sure she is so proud to have a great impact on your life. And the heart and mind check! Great advice. With exposure to so much everyday we have to stay cognizant of where our thoughts are drifting to and real them back in.
What a beautiful way to pay respect to your grandma. Your kind words about her brought tears to my eyes. was a beautiful, wonderful and kind person and will "TRULY" be missed. I had great appreciation for her kindness. And I will miss her dearly. May God bless you and comfort you during this difficult time. And remember always we loves you and we will keep you in our prayers.