Being a sophomore in college and not being exaclty sure what to major is vey frustrating to say the least. Not even knowing why you're there is bothersome as well. I know I changed my major at least four times before actually earning enough credits to become a junior. This led me to wonder, what is the true purpose of a couselor or advisor. I remember the counselor at my high school only showing interest in a few chosen students. Those who were deemed to be college material or scored high on their ACT and SAT. Those students either had parents or family members who attended college and knew what it took to prepare. I had neither. So I was clueless until the first semester of my senior year. I can remember one of my uncles telling my dad that I needed to take that ACT if I planned on attending college. Well, before then, I don't even remember being introduced to the ACT. All I ever got from the counselor was help with me schedule for the next semester and making sure I had enough credits to be promoted to the next grade.
During my time as a classroom teacher, I am glad to know that counselors have become much more involved and aren't just schedule makers. I think the high drop out rate had a lot to do with it. But at any rate, whatever it took, I'm glad it happened.
Sometimes I'd think back and become very upset at the amount of time and money I felt was wasted becasue I didn't know what I was doing and no one really took the time to direct my path. Out of this experience has grown a passion to help others find their nicche in life. Everyone has something that they are good at and are purposed to do, it just takes a little digging to get to it.

Of all the things I've gone through in the last few years, one of the most difficult has been having a deep feeling of being unfulfilled. Long before I understood what "purpose" meant, I knew I was created for one. So after many recent observations and reflections, I'm more determined than ever to "Live Big, Die Emply." It's never too late to discover why you're here!

SR Howard on you can't take it with you

You are exactly where God wants you to be at this time. As strange and unnecessary as they may seem, every experience is a part of His divine plan for your life. Learn to live in the mercy and grace of each breath He gives you TODAY; TOMORROW will take care of itself.

SR Howard on you're right on schedule

"Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world" (I John 4:4).  The Greater begins with the develop of a personal relationship with the He that is you. God has made available to us the power to do and be whatever He has purposed for us. But, it will not just fall on us like rain. We have to show up and do our part. REALIZE~God is not a magician!

SR Howard on participation is mandatory

On the road to James 1:4 (But let endurance and steadfastness and patience have full play and do a thorough work, so that you may be [people] perfectly and fully developed [with no defects], lacking in nothing.) I've learned there will be many bumps, bruises, detours, etc but come what may we must stay the course. When I decided to live my destiny and asked that God's will for my life be fulfilled I had NO IDEA what I was in for. I've experienced things I never thought I would. But through it all I thank God that He knows all and the end was already determined from the beginning.
 

It's always my prayer that I'm able to hear His voice and be led by His Spirit. Sometimes we get caught up in "what if I make a mistake" or "get it wrong" It's alright, that's what His GRACE is for. I believe after we've honestly done what we feel we must do when it comes to guidance ,then we have to make a move. God NEVER asked us for perfection...FAITH & OBEDIENCE is the name of the game!

At some point we should be so familiar with our own personal journey that we recognize when its time to take another step towards our place of wholeness, being complete, lacking nothing. And who's to say the decision won't yield yet another road block or detour, still ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER! ENCOURAGEMENT 101~We've come this far by FAITH, GRACE, AND MERCY; to give up now would only be a waste of time for everyone involved. We must be completely convinced that NOTHING shall keep us from the will of God for our lives. It ain't over 'til God says "It's Over!

Originally written 4/28/12

Today marks the third year of my "eye situation." Its been a long road to say the least. During this time I've learned a lot about myself, others, but most of all I've learned a lot about God. I've had issues with my eyes for 20 plus years but NEVER did I ever imagine waking up one morning and not being able to see, talk about scary! I asked for wholeness, purpose, and destiny but had no idea of all the baggage that stood in the way. In the beginning I fought it but in surrendering to His process, God has delivered my from tremendous pain, guilt, regret, shame etc. It was time for the "real" Stephanie to surface and I believe this what it took. No, I'm not perfect but I have grown in love, patience, temperament, forgiveness. Yes the fruits of the spirit are manifesting PRAISE GOD!
What I Know for Sure~when you ask God for something, you don't get to choose the route He takes you, just be ready for the ride. You can't worry about opinions and judgements from people, let them do what they do. During the process things can, and probably will, get very embarrassing and heartbreaking but DON'T GIVE UP! The sooner you get started the sooner you'll get to the other side. When it seems like all hell has broken loose and no one understands, God is still working His plan. Yes, there will still be moments of doubt, fear, anger, or what have you but you can move past it with grace. Feel the feelings but don't stay there. Get back to the business at hand. There's a future and a purpose waiting to be fulfilled and ONLY YOU can do it!

I'm not completely there but I do have a better idea of who I am and why I'm here. I'm a woman of FAITH, DESTINY, PEACE and LOVE! Now I no longer ask "why did I go through this?" But "WHY DID I SURVIVE IT?"

SR Howard on healing is a process

Even if you don't believe it's a generational curse, how about believing it's not your destiny just because Mama, Daddy, Grandma, Uncle Jo, Aunt Sue and them suffered and died from it. CONSIDER THIS~maybe cancer, lupus, Alzheimer's, high blood pressure, or whatever has been in the family for generations simply because no one ever had the courage to fight back. A while ago I declared "in the name of Jesus lupus or any other family ailment will not be apart of my life," then I began to do the work. Let my invite you to do the same. You, yes you, may just be the one whom God has purposed to fight for changes in your family.

SR Howard on the beginning of the end

~Participation is mandatory

~Purpose has no space for ego

~Looks can be deceiving

~Everyone won't like you

~Life is about choices

~Change isn't easy but necessary

~God is faithful

#Things I've Learned Along the Way

Be forever mindful that your life has purpose. Sure there will be challenges, mistakes, disappointments, and the like but from these things vital lessons will be learned. They can all work for your good, if allowed. PONDER THIS~Although the mission may not be accomplished YET, it definitely isn't impossible. In his letter to the people of Phillpi, Paul says, "And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He who begun a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ (right up to the time of His return), developing (that good work) and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you." So when you feel you can't go on, tap into the Spirit within, It's there to renew, restore, and help you to continue.   

SR Howard on the Fight has been Fixed

There are lessons to be learned in all things, even for those of us who are purposed to teach, preach, coach, guide, etc. It's very easy to become frustrated with those we serve. We must be mindful that God is the Author and Finisher of our fates but He uses people to merely help other people along the way. Thinking you're a miracle worker and the end results should come during your reign will surely wear you out. So when our grace to deal with someone has come to an end, it's time to BLESS, RELEASE, and MOVE ON! It's dangerous as servants for us to sit in judgement because they aren't getting "it" as fast as or how we think they should. KNOW THIS~True purpose has no place for ego!  I Corinthians 3:6-7

SR Howard on Staying in Your Lane