Talking About Alignment
I recently uploaded a YouTube video (Check out my channel HERE) discussing what I have been reflecting on with a word: alignment.
As I mention in the video, one of the ways that I believe God speaks to me is with repetition of concepts. This stems from my conviction that God is Sovereign and orchestrates instances, experiences, and conversations that interact with my life. I believe that God cares and sees the details of my life, and that through our experiences and connections with the world we live in are ways He confirms who He Is to us and who we are. Each day is filled with opportunities to hear from and experience God in both simple and profound ways.
That being said, my theme this past week has been alignment. What is alignment? And what contexts has this phrase come up in my life? Does this word cause me to feel tension in my body and spirit? Am I aligned? These are some of the questions I have been asking myself.
One of the emerging topics of my life, and thus my blog, is how to live an authentic life amidst transition. And as I have thought and prayed about this more and more, alignment while other areas of life are shifting has proven more difficult in these ways: my points of reference are shifting. My "wise counsel" is not longer in the same part of the country as I am- so I am learning how to practice wisdom and sound judgement without having mentors within arm's reach. It means if I want to talk to them, I have to be proactive to pick up the phone and call. Even so, I am in transition because I have been trying to stay true to who I am called to be. The woman I so desire to become each day is one day closer to her best.
So how can I, as a young woman in a new state, new job, new home keep in alignment? And what am I going to be adamant in aligning with?
If you've been reading this blog for any amount of time, you know that I am adamant about my faith. Even when I question it, I end up pressing in, closer to the wrestlings I have with theology and perceivable truth. The mystery of God is so vast, yet I want to align with heavenly purposes and the Light that illuminates all darkness (Jesus brings us light!).
I also want to live a life that has meaning, purpose. I want to grow and develop into a strong, courageous, caring woman of God who loves and honors people well. I want to serve my community. I want to pray. I want to inspire others to live out their lives fully and with a wholeness that expands to make this world a sweeter place as they find their purpose and role in this world! Gosh, I get SO excited talking about this!
I also want to have courage not to stay in a rut. Not to stay comfortable- it's hard! It means I have to be willing to shift... sometimes it means I must be willing to stay, or even come back (ahem, like to Colorado after moving away just three months ago). It means that my calling and purpose, my life is my own responsibility to steward. So am I willing to realign until I get it right? Even if I look kind of crazy to onlookers? YES. BIG YES.
Realignment is uncomfortable. As I talk about in the video, it's like going to a chiropractor. It can hurt!!! You might hear things within you snap or pop. But you walk out a little bit more whole.
I find it helpful to go through my values and goals, re-reading my old journal entries and even blog posts when I am transitioning. If I feel a little lost or misaligned, reminding myself of who I have been, what I want, what God has spoken to me, etc... it helps me realign. It's like a frame that I can hold up to decisions to help guide me. It reminds me that over the years and over each place I have lived, that the truest core of who I am comes with me anywhere I go.
This reminds me... one of my favorite things about God is that he is always with us. ALWAYS. Wow! It gives me so much reassurance that he does that! He has cared for me since the beginning and has watched you and me grow into who we are today. He is proud. He will continue to guide you and align you, if you're willing. He will speak to you, encourage you, give you hope and a future. He is full of promise. Align with that. Read His Word. And friend, if you're in transition too, know you're not alone! I am there too. You're going to make it. Stay true to who God has called you to be, and remember that wherever you feel the harshness of guilt or shame- He fills those gaps with himself, his grace, his love. Just come. As you are. No matter how far you are feeling from Him. Begin to align yourself again. Do not be afraid, but have courage. He will be right by your side.
From Me to You,
As I mention in the video, one of the ways that I believe God speaks to me is with repetition of concepts. This stems from my conviction that God is Sovereign and orchestrates instances, experiences, and conversations that interact with my life. I believe that God cares and sees the details of my life, and that through our experiences and connections with the world we live in are ways He confirms who He Is to us and who we are. Each day is filled with opportunities to hear from and experience God in both simple and profound ways.
That being said, my theme this past week has been alignment. What is alignment? And what contexts has this phrase come up in my life? Does this word cause me to feel tension in my body and spirit? Am I aligned? These are some of the questions I have been asking myself.
One of the emerging topics of my life, and thus my blog, is how to live an authentic life amidst transition. And as I have thought and prayed about this more and more, alignment while other areas of life are shifting has proven more difficult in these ways: my points of reference are shifting. My "wise counsel" is not longer in the same part of the country as I am- so I am learning how to practice wisdom and sound judgement without having mentors within arm's reach. It means if I want to talk to them, I have to be proactive to pick up the phone and call. Even so, I am in transition because I have been trying to stay true to who I am called to be. The woman I so desire to become each day is one day closer to her best.
So how can I, as a young woman in a new state, new job, new home keep in alignment? And what am I going to be adamant in aligning with?
If you've been reading this blog for any amount of time, you know that I am adamant about my faith. Even when I question it, I end up pressing in, closer to the wrestlings I have with theology and perceivable truth. The mystery of God is so vast, yet I want to align with heavenly purposes and the Light that illuminates all darkness (Jesus brings us light!).
I also want to live a life that has meaning, purpose. I want to grow and develop into a strong, courageous, caring woman of God who loves and honors people well. I want to serve my community. I want to pray. I want to inspire others to live out their lives fully and with a wholeness that expands to make this world a sweeter place as they find their purpose and role in this world! Gosh, I get SO excited talking about this!
I also want to have courage not to stay in a rut. Not to stay comfortable- it's hard! It means I have to be willing to shift... sometimes it means I must be willing to stay, or even come back (ahem, like to Colorado after moving away just three months ago). It means that my calling and purpose, my life is my own responsibility to steward. So am I willing to realign until I get it right? Even if I look kind of crazy to onlookers? YES. BIG YES.
Realignment is uncomfortable. As I talk about in the video, it's like going to a chiropractor. It can hurt!!! You might hear things within you snap or pop. But you walk out a little bit more whole.
I find it helpful to go through my values and goals, re-reading my old journal entries and even blog posts when I am transitioning. If I feel a little lost or misaligned, reminding myself of who I have been, what I want, what God has spoken to me, etc... it helps me realign. It's like a frame that I can hold up to decisions to help guide me. It reminds me that over the years and over each place I have lived, that the truest core of who I am comes with me anywhere I go.
This reminds me... one of my favorite things about God is that he is always with us. ALWAYS. Wow! It gives me so much reassurance that he does that! He has cared for me since the beginning and has watched you and me grow into who we are today. He is proud. He will continue to guide you and align you, if you're willing. He will speak to you, encourage you, give you hope and a future. He is full of promise. Align with that. Read His Word. And friend, if you're in transition too, know you're not alone! I am there too. You're going to make it. Stay true to who God has called you to be, and remember that wherever you feel the harshness of guilt or shame- He fills those gaps with himself, his grace, his love. Just come. As you are. No matter how far you are feeling from Him. Begin to align yourself again. Do not be afraid, but have courage. He will be right by your side.
From Me to You,
Melissa M. xoxo
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