Erika's Blog - Northern Connections

It has been some time since I have felt like writing. Serious family issues have taken their toll on my emotions. Our son was diagnosed with bi-polar and is being treated in hospital. Watching a loved one suffer is more difficult (I think) than suffering yourself. I thank God that he is still with us. A couple of our friends have lost their children through suicide. One family was not aware their son was experiencing depression. If you don't know what signs to look for, it can be easy to miss when someone starts to decline. Thankfully I have had my own experiences and knew something was wrong with our son but we are still fortunate that he chose to speak up and seek help. While watching Oprah yesterday she interviewed guests who wanted to end their lives, tried, but managed to survive. Two guests reported that they found Christ which has given them peace and purpose and now want to help others. I believe we are here on earth to be tried, tested, develop our faith and do what we can to serve others. I am looking forward to a great year ahead.

Labels: spirituality

Recently someone has come into my life. I needed some temporary office help and this person was sent my way. She was very friendly, outgoing and humorous. We hit it off immediately. Over the past 3 weeks, we began to learn more about each other and found ways that we can be supportive to eachother with the challenges that we are facing. I was able to give her advice in my areas of knowledge and expertise and vice versa. I believe that people are put in our paths for reasons, whether they need us or we need them. Being able to render a service to someone to help them on life's journey is a special blessing.

Labels: inspiration, networking, spirituality

The interesting thing about life is that whenever you think things are going rather smoothly, something always comes along to challenge you. If you can take a moment to look at life objectively, you will find that we are not meant to live in a status quo environment. Our mortal existence is to develop character through trials. In our family we have been dealing with ill and ageing parents which is difficult but inevitable. Then along comes some unexpected trials that stretch your endurance even further. I am thankful that I have an eternal perspective and the knowledge that all good things in life are counteracted by negative occurrences, just to keep you grounded. I ask for help and guidance daily and that's what keeps me going.

Labels: family, health, spirituality

I went to a business breakfast meeting a while ago and just recently found the notes that I took during the keynote speaker's presentation. She had us write down 3 things that we are thankful for. I wrote "my family, a good secure job and living in Canada". When I think of what people in other countries are going through, it's easy to be thankful for what we enjoy, or sometimes take for granted. If you can start you day with positive, happy thoughts, giving thanks to God, it will be a better day. I have learned to slow down, stay in the moment as much as possible, and absorb the good things around me. Whether it be good people I work with, a comfortable home, the love of my family, or the health that I enjoy. I certainly could be in better health, but I'm reasonably satisfied with where I am right now. Someone said "when one person shines, we all gain". We can be enriched by others talents and gifts and share in their experiences. Take a moment each day and be thankful. It will make you shine.

Labels: inspiration, self care, spirituality