Finding Your Identity

Have you ever asked yourself, "Who am I? How do people view my existence?" Believe it or not, I have come to the conclusion that your parents lay the foundation of your self perception. Think about it....

What do you believe to be true about yourself and who planted those thoughts? Parents can shape who you believe you are in positive or negative way. Some people spend years trying to prove their parents wrong about a belief that they might have about them. That's why we have so many people walking around with low self esteem issues! It's because they are finding their identity in who their parents believe them to be.

Now don't get me wrong, not all self perception thoughts originated from your parents. There are others that can play into that role like your spouse, teachers, media, and friends. I have struggled for years trying to remove negative words from my mind that my parents carelessly spoke into me. Parents can say some really hurtful things when they are drunk or under the influence of drugs.

So, what's the remedy? I would first say stop and take a moment to write down what you believe to be true about yourself, positive and/or negative. Make two columns if you would like to keep it organized. If you're really curious as to who might be influencing your life, whether in a positive and/or negative way. Then write down the names of the people who planted those thoughts in your mind. Then take a moment to evaluate your thoughts and who is influencing your self perception.

Hmmm.... Are you a little surprised? Isn't it eye opening to see how you view yourself, and who is influencing your thoughts. As you know by now, I'm a woman of faith. So of course I am going to spin this concept back to God, because after all he is our Father and Creator.

Romans 8:16,17

"The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs - heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory."

Many times I go about my day forgetting the truth of who my father is. He is someone that has a plan for me, that wants to bless me, who loves me, and he is who I should be finding my identity in. How many times did Jesus pop up on your list as someone that influenced a thought of how you viewed yourself?

If you want a healthy self perception of yourself then take the time to get into God's word. He has given us an entire book to help us with our journey in life. As you dig into God's word ask Him how He sees you. Spend some quiet time just listening to Him, because He will give it to you straight!

A word of caution though... God might reveal some things that you find your identity in that He might ask you to change. He only wants you to be whole so don't be afraid. Finding your identity begins with knowing God, and what He believes to be true about you. Have a blessed day!

Community

Are you apart of a community? A comment from a previous post reminded me of the importance of living within a community. What does the word "community" mean to you?

Well, when I think of the word community I am reminded of the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child." A small town, called Warsaw, nestled within the heartland of Indiana brought this phrase to life for me. They shaped the character of who I am today, and carefully wove together my moral fibers.

Due to my unstable family life, I turned to my teachers, friend's parents, coaching staff, and church family to direct my footsteps. I'm reminded of spontaneous kitchen table conversations, words of wisdom from a coach, and loving guidance from church staffers. They were my family when I lacked one, and because of that I will forever be grateful.

Those that are faithful servants within a community unknowingly shape the minds of the future. Every encouraging word and/or gentle correction is a building block in the foundation of a young child. Who shaped your character?

As you answer that question in your mind do not let it stop there. Take a moment to thank those names. Whether it be by letter, phone call, or taking them out for a cup of coffee. Let them know how they influenced your life. Then take it one step further!

How can you possibly take it one step further? Join your community in raising a child by getting involved. You can touch a life by simply being a coach, a small group leader or by taking an invested interest in your child's friends. Your love and guidance will enrich future communities to come.

Children of Alcoholics

Hi, friends!

Today, I would like to take the opportunity to introduce myself. My name is Cherish, and I am a woman that loves the Lord and her family. Several years ago God began to provide opportunities for me to share His love with others through my story.

What kind of story do I have? One that is all too familiar, but rarely spoken of. I was one of those children behind closed doors without a voice. You know the ones... Everything looks okay on the outside with their family, but if you were a fly on the wall you would realize otherwise.

They're the children that avoid going home at all cost, because they have no idea what awaits them when they get there. These kids know that their families are different, and that is why they rarely ever have friends over. We are the children that wear a fake mask in public for fear that someone might learn of our story. Yet, we so badly want out of the violence.

What kind of child am I? I am the child of alcoholic parents, and I was only able to survive it with God. My hearts desire is to encourage youth, and to give them a hope that they can only find through Jesus Christ. It is a lonely place behind those closed doors at home, but you don't have to be alone anymore.

If you are one of these children that are desperately looking for answers, and for the meaning of your life then listen up. God created you and loves you very much! He does have great plans for your future, but you have to join His team. Life is meaningless without Him, and you will have a very difficult time overcoming your circumstance without Christ.

You can join God's team today! How might you ask? By simply giving Him the steering wheel of your life and trusting in Him. You can do it right where you are now. Close your eyes, ask God to forgive you for your sins and ask Him to come into your life forever. If you prayed this prayer today the angels in heaven are rejoicing!

Having God in your life is the first step in finding hope. He is there to talk to when you have no one else. Find a Bible and begin to get to know Jesus today by reading the book of John. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you begin this journey today, God Bless!