If You've Been Down, You Know How It Feels to Rise - Elevate
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Posted By: Atlanta Red on November 02, 2008 I had to stop and make some reassessments over the past few weeks. Aren’t you glad to know and believe that there is a God who not only exists, but who is loving? Now, these are some very difficult and trying times for many of us. Oh, yes – I’m definitely included in that number of many who have been doing everything possible to “keep things together.” Over the weekend, I was checking out some of the pieces by other artists on Ourstage in the Spoken Word channel. There are many outstanding pieces, but for me, this one hit the spot – like sweet honey in my belly. I’m not competing this month, so I guess it’s okay if I shout out one of my favorites from time to time. Sometimes, when things get tough – you know what I mean… When things get “real tough”, it’s easy to allow ourselves to let go, give up, or do things that make our lives and situations even more challenging. Why? Because in moments where there’s so much going on around us, it’s hard to see or think clearly because we don’t reach out and ask for help. As for me, I’m a strong believer that God (Jehovah) is the Almighty provider. That ain’t gonna change. As for me, I also believe that His Son (Christ) lived, died and lives again eternally to remove our burdens and provide salvation for our souls. That ain’t gonna change. Now, I just professed that publicly not to change anyone’s mind or challenge anyone’s belief system, but I professed that because it just makes me feel lighter each time I do it. I guess maybe although I’m afraid of falling, I’m not afraid to fly. I like the high. Whew that feels good! I want to share something with you. There was a time when I looked upon pride as a great asset to character. In some contexts, there may be some validity to that, but there’s a point where pride can become toxic. No doubt about it, these are difficult times for many of us and concerning times for almost all of us. When we find ourselves down, it’s hard to open our mouths to utter those words, “I need a little help.” The funny thing is often times, that’s all it takes – reaching out to someone near us who loves us enough to help. We often times don’t do that because we’re afraid of “having it to be thrown back into our faces” at some point in time. That’s my story. I’m not afraid to admit that. Actually, I’m “proud” to admit having been there. What if you’ve been asking God to help you all along and He placed people around you who could help you through His blessings, but you never mustered there strength to humble yourself to ask? If you’re going through something heavy and you need help, reach out to someone who has been there for you in the past. Yeah. You may have a reason for not “wanting to reach out” but that’s life. Keep moving because you can’t be a blessing to others if you won’t allow yourself to be blessed. It’s okay to have a giving heart, but it’s not okay to beat yourself up because you’re unable to give “what you want” at any point in time. Do what you can and let God do for you. That’s my sermon to myself tonight before I sleep tonight. Hopefully there’s something in it for someone else also. Check out this song and enjoy it. Peace & Blessings, Atlanta Red (A.R.)  
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Atlanta Red
Financial Analyst, Atlanta Red, Inc. Georgia St Univ class of 1995 Member Since September 2008 |
Comments
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I must admit that I too sometimes find it difficult to ask for help when it is obvious that I need it. You see, I have always been that of an independent and self-reliant woman. So at times of challenge I would be reluctant to seek the assistance I knew I needed because I did not want to appear as a failure; especially to those who would typically express doubts in my endeavors. You are so correct when you stated that some will remind you time and time again of what they did for you, making sure you never forget it. I have experienced that, and to this day it never fails to arise. I still live independently and self-efficient. However, there are those in my life that genuinely care about my well-being and will always be there should I need them. During these uncertain times it is a good thing to be able to feel comfortable to seek help from those who truly have your back. There are occasions when we all could use a little help. Thank you for sharing and reminding us of how important it is for us to embrace the blessings of those in our lives, thus becoming a blessing to others. Great share indeed, sweetheart. I cannot hear the song here from the office, but will revisit later to partake in the message. Again, thanks for sharing. Monday, November 3rd 2008 at 9:48AM |
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TaNisha Gray Juisee Da Queen
What a wonderfully beautiful message this is... Website Administrative Assistant/Homemaker at SeeingGrowth/Self Employed Thank you for sharing. I find it hard sometimes to reach out and ask for help though I am always willing to give it. It's something I have to work on, which is hard for me. I don't have a close net family so there aren't many I feel comfortable reaching out to without the having it thrown back in my face, but as for the ones I do feel comfortable enough to ask I will definitely work harder on asking for what I need no matter how simple or insignificant I think it may be to someone else. Sunday Hugs coming your way! Continue to be blessed and pass the blessings on. Sunday, November 9th 2008 at 5:42AM |
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