While seeking advice from others and questioning yourself are normal behaviors, they don't necessarily mean that you lack confidence; instead, they can imply confidence. In a recent list of traits I found related to confident people, I learned that being willing to ask for help, admitting a lack of knowledge, and being willing to make a mistake are some personality traits of confident people. 

The practice of journaling gratitude also serves as an opportunity to get out some stuff that we may overlook because of the distractions of life.

While we can't change situations outside our control, I know we can do a few things to help ourselves remain joyful.

When I think of cultivating joy and living a life that I enjoy, I know that what I consume can either empower me or derail me on my journey.

I haven't always felt comfortable taking breaks, but to be the best that I can for myself, I’ve learned that taking breaks from different areas of my life is necessary for my well-being.

As I've come to understand myself and my conditions, I can share some ways I, too, have continuously experienced joy during pain.

I was 19 when a friend said to me, “Latonya, I don’t want to ever see you going out to eat alone.” She made this comment while she, her young daughter, and I were dining across from a woman who was eating alone.

It's been one of those weeks where I've found myself questioning my every move. Should I keep pressing forward? Am I doing what God wants me to do? Am I on the right path?  Oftentimes, these questions begin to overtake my mind when change is on the horizon. I don't mind change, but I would be lying if I said that it wasn't uncomfortable and sometimes terrifying. But even when I am in emotional distress, God always shows up.  This time was no different. The Persevere kit from Illustrated Faith came to my mailbox at just the right moment.  I am usually surprised by the monthly theme so when I read theme on the envelope, I knew it was a word for me--persevere. 

Yep, I am sick again. This is the fourth time in the past four months that I have been really under the weather.  This is my third bout with Strep. Before you ask, I do not know why I keep getting Strep. I change my toothbrush, linens, and disinfect. No one in my family has caught it. Each time it presents itself on a Monday evening making the week change its course before it even gets started.

The "I Am" kit calls for me to dig deeper. It's helping me to name my distractions. It's helping me to remember who I am and WHOSE I am. 

I am intentionally joining the Illustrated Faith community. It's not the IRL community that I am used to, but it is perfect for the season that I am in now.  It allows me to work through the 14 day devotionals and share my understanding with a community of artists who appreciate the Word.

This week has been a memorable one for me.  I've had some good things happen, but they were all clouded by my bout with Strep Throat.  Guys, Strep is no joke as an adult. My husband shared with me today that some people have lost limbs because of the infection.  I've experienced Strep a few times in my life, but it's been nearly 15 years since I've dealt with the infection. I don't remember feeling horrible for so long. I don't feel 100%, but I am on the mend.

Over the past few years, there has been many chaotic moments which have taken over the news cycle.  From unnecessary deaths to shifts in the political realm,  Many of these moments don't directly affect us meaning they aren't necessarily on our doorsteps, but most of them have an indirect impact on our thoughts, perspectives, and emotions.