In his book, Self Matters, Dr. Phil explains that each of us
has ten defining moments in our lives. These moments are deep and profound and can
change who we are and redirect the course of our lives. While I've never actually
counted mine, I can easily identify the top three.
The first occurred thirty-one years ago about six weeks
after my husband left me with four young children. Lost, frightened, and filled with despair, I
felt I could no longer handle these burdens that were placed on me. Upon
awakening one morning, I found myself surrounded by a strong Presence, one of great
love and comfort, offering me hope and strength. I knew immediately I was in
the Presence of God and all fear vanished. I felt renewed physically,
emotionally, and spiritually. I knew I would be alright because I had God with
me. Fear has never returned as my companion.
After a very long estrangement from three of my adult
children, one re-entered into my life. My grandson would soon turn seven and
receive his First Holy Communion. For the first time in many years, my ex and I
would be in close proximity with one another. At one point during Mass, we are
asked to offer those around us a sign of peace which usually consists of a
handshake. Knowing my ex had a great deal of disdain for me, I prayed to God as
to how to handle this delicate situation. His instructions? "Treat him
exactly as you treat everyone else."
I realized God was not concerned with what my ex thought about me. He
cared only how I treated him. This experience clarified God's desire for me -
to do what is right by Him and not be influenced by how others feel or behave.
My third defining moment came by way of the Prayer of Mother
Theresa. It gave examples of the way we live life: if others are unkind to you
be kind to them anyway; if they don't appreciate the good you do, do good
anyway." And so on. But it was the final stanza that resonated with me:
"It is between you and God, not between you and them anyway." Suddenly,
I realized that my life was not about me as a mother, daughter, sister, wife,
business owner or anything else. My life was about my relationship with God! I
am a child of God and I am here to live in a manner pleasing to Him. Living
life on my terms is ego-centered and laden with mistakes, bad choices, pain,
and suffering. But if I follow God's
Way, follow His direction, then every choice I make is morally right and I live
a life of self-respect, satisfaction, immense joy, and inner peace.
Three moments that redefined who I am and how I live my
life. I wonder what would happen if I discovered the other seven?
Share your thoughts about your defining moments.
For a copy of "The Great Truth: Shattering Life's Most
Insidious Lies That Sabotage Your Happiness Along With the Revelation of Life's
Sole Purpose", visit http://www.pfeifferpowerseminars.com/pps1-products.html.
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