Female in Motion

A flower arrangement I made for Tam.  Last week I wrote about the departure of a co-worker and dear friend, Tam. You may have been left with the impression that she was this tiny, shy girl who needed a lot of guidance and shepherding. Oh, no. Not at all. She is one of the most powerful, influential and strong women I have ever met. And I'm so grateful for the lessons she taught me. Tam is a thoughtful, humble and giving person. She taught me to be more generous with my words and deeds. A lifelong learner, my friend taught me to be curious and always strive for more knowledge. I learned to think of others first and to be grateful for what God has given. Tam taught me to be a better listener and not be so quick to speak first. I learned that even though I am from a culture so very different from hers, Tam was gracious and loved me with open arms and heart. Tam taught me vital life lessons and I will forever be in her debt. Thank you, God, for this gift. *** Notabl...

Last Friday was my work bestie's last day. She has found a new position with a different company. And while I am incredibly happy for her, I will miss Tam deeply. At the farewell party we threw for her, she said it felt like a graduation. And she's not wrong--Tam learned everything she needed to know where she was and now she's moving on. Tam came to our company three years ago. She was very shy and quiet; a friendly soul, but timid when it came to casual conversation. Tam confided in me that she was unsure of her language skills. A first-generation American, Tam came to the United States by herself when she was 15. Through many hardships, she finished high school and got a bachelor's degree in accounting. At her farewell luncheon, Tam greeted guest after guest with big hugs and smiles, lots of fun conversation and witty remarks. She is much more self-confident today. Tam says that I am one of the reasons she is more confident now, but I say that she did all t...

Photo courtesy of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. I'm struggling with a difficult season in my work. Usually, I am quite confident in my skills but this new challenge is really wreaking havoc with my peace of mind. Tearing up at odd times and fighting melancholy thoughts, I have been feeling sorry for myself. I feel powerless and out of control. Notice anything missing? Yeah, me too. I haven't been asking My Best Friend for advice. I've talked to my co-workers, vented to The Hubster and shared with friends. They've all been wonderfully supportive and helpful. It's scary to feel so very alone. Being in total control of myself and my work is something I take for granted. And I take a lot of pride in that. And that's when I knew I needed to run into the arms of Jesus and let Him take over. The reason I feel alone is that I have isolated myself. And I am over-stressed and anxious because I chose not to pray about it. So I'm going to do what I should have...

Photo courtesy of Logos Bible Software WONDER OF IT ALL George Beverly Shea Lyrics   There's the wonder of sunset at evening, The wonder as sunrise I see; But the wonder of wonders that thrills my soul Is the wonder that God loves me.   Refrain O, the wonder of it all! The wonder of it all! Just to think that God loves me. O, the wonder of it all! The wonder of it all! Just to think that God loves me.   Verse 2 There's the wonder of springtime and harvest, The sky, the stars, the sun; But the wonder of wonders that thrills my soul Is a wonder that has only begun. *** Notable Quote: "Stuff your eyes with wonder, live as if you'd drop dead in ten seconds. See the world. It's more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories."--Ray Bradbury