May 21st 2022
What a beautiful place for walking and taking in such beautiful countryside.
After chemo, I am so grateful that I can now walk so far and even cycle a twelve mile route.( with rests ..) 😂
We have done a few walks and seen plenty of sheep along the way , which reminded me of my book 'Through the Valley.' I wrote this during 2020 lockdown. It is my story through divorce in 2006; how I coped with the financial issues, forgiveness, anger -all the issues that divorce often brings.
Included in my story was the beautiful Psalm 23 which meant so much to me when my mum passed away ( at the same time as my divorce)
As a Christian, the verse "You are with me" became so real during this time and on my walk today I see these sheep grazing in "green pastures", also mentioned in the Psalm.
Interestingly, the meaning of Pasture means 'land used for grazing' - 'pastures of tender grass', suitable for animals, especially cattle and sheep -
(I think David the shepherd boy knew what he was talking about when he wrote this..)🐑🐑🐑
On entering the gate, the sheep ( some with their lambs) scurry off , trying to get away from us, probably tired of walkers invading their fields, day in, day out and disturbing their peace on their special land!
These two, however, were determined to stay 'put' and not be moved.😂
They had a choice; follow the crowd and run away or stay where they were, relaxed and happy!These sheep reminded me how so many times, as we plod along peacefully with our day, our minds can be 'invaded' with thoughts that are far from peaceful and we allow negative words to take over. (our lovely pasture..) Have you ever received many compliments, then suddenly, one negative comment is made by someone? Do you remember all the positive ones, or is your mind now concentrating on the ONE negative one?
Here are a few negative thoughts I have had 'walking through and invading' my head in the past
😬 1. I am not clever enough
😬 2. I can't imagine ever being able to do that
😬 3. I should do better than I am doing...
😬 4. I just can't do it!
😬 5. What if it doesn't work out?
These are only a few, but I can imagine that you too can relate to these? !
Here are my suggestions/ answers to the above negative thoughts;
👍 1. Yes, you probably have limitations but you CAN do some things well!
👍 2. You will never know until you try!
👍 3. Who sets the standard on the word "should" anyway ? Do what you can, and do not compare yourself to others
👍 4. Maybe someone could help you? ( see also number 2's reply!)
👍 5. What if it does ?
As a Christian, my life is not always 'rosy' and peaceful. (if you read my book, you will know what I mean!) However, I have chosen to keep my mind on the positive and not let it be invaded by all the rubbish that often comes from MSM posts and comments !
As we come to this small stream along our walk, I can only hear the sound of the birds - it is so peaceful!
Again, Psalm 23 - 'He leads us beside STILL waters' - Jesus Himself spoke of having HIS PEACE through all life's troubles. I am glad I can pray this into all situations that I face.
As much as possible, like those sheep, I will aim to keep those 'invaders' out of my mind and remain positive, and peaceful , just like the sheep by the wall !
If you are interested in a copy of my book, please inbox me through Facebook
All proceeds to the lily jo project project - an online self- help mental health resource.
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