rock or gem?

I used to think that the person that abused me when I was a child ruined my life, but I was wrong.  Even though that was a horrific experience and I suffered many things throughout my life due to this, I came to realize eventually that it was my own hatred and unforgiveness that was holding me hostage.  No one has the power to ruin your life but you.  I almost ruined my life through my hatred and unforgiveness.    Although you can't help many things in your life, and in your child hood especially, when you get to be an adult,  that is when you can help things.  That is where the rubber meets the road, so to speak.  When, you can choose, through Christ, to become a gem or a rock.  And wether you are a Christian or not,  I can tell you right now that it is impossible to be a gem without Him.  In fact, I would say it is pretty much impossible to forgive something that sears your soul without Him.
................................................
more to come......
from
a
very
selfish, self-serving
person
that
regardless
has
found
grace
through
Christ
PHEW!  what  a relief!

Being a little Superfluous and Selfish once in awhile seems right

Today I did something I almost never do......I bought myself something totally unnecessary, top of the line, and more than I usually spend ($30)  :)  ha ha!

Not deserved, but it did hit the spot,  kind of like a cheeseburger when you are hungry.

I'll get a pic of my crackling little candle fireplace.......oh if only you could smell it!!!!!!!!
          and put it on.

Another beautiful gift I received today!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A river rock walkway from my sidewalk to my garage......It is beautiful, delightful.......Thanks to the talented Aaron for putting it in.

God is good.

Been feeling a little pouty about not being able to go anywhere, for quite awhile and no end immediately in sight to my personal travel restrictions.  (I get REALLY itchy to travel when I haven't in so long...)
So, These pleasant little gifts from God (and me) and Aaron, were like God saying......
"Hey,  here's a little present for you, my beloved, ....Open it".       SOmetimes those LITTLE pleasures can seem bigger than you ever dreamed.     .....I love You, God.
.
And thank-You God for summer and the most beautiful weather, ever, that I remember!  The gardens are dreamy.  Visual candy.