So American Idol is back on TV in its tenth season! Have you been watching it? Honestly, I have never truly followed the show. I usually just watch the first few episodes to watch all the fun auditions. But, for some reason I have watched it more this season and I'm glad. There was one contestant in this season that has really impacted me and his name is Jacee Badeaux. I have liked him from the beginning because of his sweet smile and braveness to audition at the young age of 15. I started to like him even more during the group round. Jacee was working with a group but was kicked out because his "style" did not match the group he was working with. This made me furious. I am very anti-bullying, so when anyone is bullied I get very steamed up. The night before the auditions Jacee was left high and dry because other groups were already rehearsing their songs. The show played a clip of Jacee crying to his mom because he didn’t have a group. At this moment not only did my heart break, but my anger rose. If you know my roomies just ask them. I was ranting and raving something fierce. After hearing about Jacee's situation a kind hearted contestant invited Jacee to join his group even though they had already been rehearsing for hours. The group went on to perform and they all were advanced to top 40.
One reason Jacee's situation made me angry was because it was another reminder that people will do anything to get what they want; no matter how many people they hurt. I hope after seeing this on national television the members of Jacee's first group felt remorseful for their actions. I am a firm believer that every person should understand their self-worth. So when people do things that break down a person's feeling of self-worth I get very upset. Honestly my stomach hurt when I saw Jacee in tears because his group abandoned him. No person should ever have to feel that kind of rejection. I'm not sure why I have such strong feelings about situations like this, but I think God has given them to me for a reason. I imagine that maybe someday I'll get to work with teens that struggle with seeing their worth, and I'll get to be the person that loves on them and helps them find that self-worth.
This story is also very similar to the Susan Boyle story. She was auditioning for Britain’s Got Talent and was mocked because of her appearance. Boy was it fun to watch everyone's facial expressions change as she blew them out of the water! I have attached both videos so you can watch them! The next time you have an opportunity to stand up for a person, be sure to take it. You never know how much of a difference you can make in their lives.
Before I give the links check out the beginning lyrics of this song by Superchick, the song is called “Hero.” It is available on itunes and you can hear it on youtube.
No one sits with him, he doesn’t fit in,
But we feel like we do when we make fun of him,
'Cause you want to belong, do you go along?
'Cause his pain is the price paid for you to belong
It’s not like you hate him or want him to die,
But maybe he goes home and thinks suicide,
Or he comes back to school with a gun at his side,
Any kindness from you might have saved his life...
Heroes are made when you make a choice...
You could be a hero,
Heroes do what’s right,
You could be a hero,
You might save a life,
You could be a hero, you could join the fight,
For what’s right, for what’s right, for what’s right...
No one talks to her, she feels so alone,
She’s in too much pain to survive on her own,
The hurt she can’t handle overflows to a knife,
She writes on her arm, wants to give up her life,
Each day she goes on is a day that she is brave,
Fighting the lie that giving up is the way,
Each moment of courage her own life she saves,
When she throws the pills out, a hero is made...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMf3ZUuuPMk&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxPZh4AnWyk
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Monday, February 14, 2011
Happy Valentine's Day!
Hello Blog World!
So today is Valentine's Day! Personally, I love this "fake" holiday. It's a day set aside where you just get to express your love to all those who are closest to you. Although I believe that we should tell our loved ones we love them everyday, it's a helpful holiday for those that struggle showing their emotions. Plus I love chocolate, and this is the one day (besides Halloween the other "fake" holiday") that I let myself eat enough sweets to give myself a stomach ache.
What I don't like about Valentine's Day is the fact that people feel like they have to have a significant other to celebrate the day. Growing up Valentine's Day was never special because of a boyfriend. It was special because of the way my family celebrated it. Every morning there would be flowers from my dad and a cute girly gift from my mom. My sister and I would eat breakfast together and then go get ready for school as we gave advice on the others outfit (this was an every morning occurrence). When we were all home we ate a family dinner. Later in the week we would get small gifts from our Nani Virginia and Auntie Teresa, and a big heart shaped cookie from Nani Nila. It was never about the gifts, what always meant the most to me was that on a silly "fake" holiday my family would take time to show that they love me. Maybe it's because I was raised around the value of family, but I think Valentine’s Day should be for the ones who love us most, which is our family and closest friends. I really miss spending Valentine’s Day at home, but I am thankful for my family away from home (roomies) I get to spend the day with.
So the next time you think "I hate Valentine's Day," remember all the people in your life that love you. Love doesn't have to be from a significant other to celebrate this day. Thank God for the time He has given you to yourself, and be thankful for the blessings that come with this time.
To Mom and Dad: I am so thankful for the love you have shown me every day since I was born. I know several people never get to understand the true love of a family and for that I count my blessings. You are amazing people and I love you sooo much! I can feel the family love all the way in Springfield and that is something special! Growing up you resembled the love God has for all of us, and that has been so beneficial to my life. Thanks for showing me that happiness comes from God and the blessings He gives our life. Thanks for teaching me how to be confident in who I am, and to love myself because I am God's creation. I LOVE YOU!
Kenz: You are the BEST sister in the entire world! Words can't describe how much I miss you! The memories of us getting ready in the mornings together will always be some of my favorites. You have a heart of gold, and set an example for all those around you. You change the lives of everyone who meets you because of your kindness and champion for the underdog. You are beautiful inside and out and ya got it going on! :)
Grandparents: Words can't express how much I love you all. How lucky am I that I was able to grow up with six grandparents that have supported me my entire life. I cherish every moment I get to spend with all of you. I have learned and taken away so many things from the way you all live your lives. I LOVE YOU GUYS! And I wish I got to spend more time with you!
Barnett Family: Not many girls have an aunt and uncle as special as the two of you. Who else can I call when I get in a wreck, or just need some encouragement? I remember when I found out you guys were moving to Liberty, I was sooooo excited! You guys are my second parents and I am so thankful you have always been there for me. Thanks for coming to my softball games and being there for important moments in my life. Girls, you two are amazing! Several of my friends aren't as close with their cousins as Kenz and I are with you, and I am so glad we have the gift of being close. You both have amazing qualities and can do so many great things for the world. Bailey I admire your spunkiness and courage to try new things. Brooklyn I admire your sweet spirit and maturity at such a young age. I love you all and miss you!
So today is Valentine's Day! Personally, I love this "fake" holiday. It's a day set aside where you just get to express your love to all those who are closest to you. Although I believe that we should tell our loved ones we love them everyday, it's a helpful holiday for those that struggle showing their emotions. Plus I love chocolate, and this is the one day (besides Halloween the other "fake" holiday") that I let myself eat enough sweets to give myself a stomach ache.
What I don't like about Valentine's Day is the fact that people feel like they have to have a significant other to celebrate the day. Growing up Valentine's Day was never special because of a boyfriend. It was special because of the way my family celebrated it. Every morning there would be flowers from my dad and a cute girly gift from my mom. My sister and I would eat breakfast together and then go get ready for school as we gave advice on the others outfit (this was an every morning occurrence). When we were all home we ate a family dinner. Later in the week we would get small gifts from our Nani Virginia and Auntie Teresa, and a big heart shaped cookie from Nani Nila. It was never about the gifts, what always meant the most to me was that on a silly "fake" holiday my family would take time to show that they love me. Maybe it's because I was raised around the value of family, but I think Valentine’s Day should be for the ones who love us most, which is our family and closest friends. I really miss spending Valentine’s Day at home, but I am thankful for my family away from home (roomies) I get to spend the day with.
So the next time you think "I hate Valentine's Day," remember all the people in your life that love you. Love doesn't have to be from a significant other to celebrate this day. Thank God for the time He has given you to yourself, and be thankful for the blessings that come with this time.
To Mom and Dad: I am so thankful for the love you have shown me every day since I was born. I know several people never get to understand the true love of a family and for that I count my blessings. You are amazing people and I love you sooo much! I can feel the family love all the way in Springfield and that is something special! Growing up you resembled the love God has for all of us, and that has been so beneficial to my life. Thanks for showing me that happiness comes from God and the blessings He gives our life. Thanks for teaching me how to be confident in who I am, and to love myself because I am God's creation. I LOVE YOU!
Kenz: You are the BEST sister in the entire world! Words can't describe how much I miss you! The memories of us getting ready in the mornings together will always be some of my favorites. You have a heart of gold, and set an example for all those around you. You change the lives of everyone who meets you because of your kindness and champion for the underdog. You are beautiful inside and out and ya got it going on! :)
Grandparents: Words can't express how much I love you all. How lucky am I that I was able to grow up with six grandparents that have supported me my entire life. I cherish every moment I get to spend with all of you. I have learned and taken away so many things from the way you all live your lives. I LOVE YOU GUYS! And I wish I got to spend more time with you!
Barnett Family: Not many girls have an aunt and uncle as special as the two of you. Who else can I call when I get in a wreck, or just need some encouragement? I remember when I found out you guys were moving to Liberty, I was sooooo excited! You guys are my second parents and I am so thankful you have always been there for me. Thanks for coming to my softball games and being there for important moments in my life. Girls, you two are amazing! Several of my friends aren't as close with their cousins as Kenz and I are with you, and I am so glad we have the gift of being close. You both have amazing qualities and can do so many great things for the world. Bailey I admire your spunkiness and courage to try new things. Brooklyn I admire your sweet spirit and maturity at such a young age. I love you all and miss you!
Monday, February 7, 2011
I'm Back!
Hello Blog World!
Ok, I am so sorry for just now returning, I know I said I would be back over break, but I honestly was not on my computer much. I was soaking up as much family time as I could get and it was awesome!
This Christmas break was the best yet!
-I got lots and lots of family time in! (I can never have enough family time)
-It was full of good relaxation and watching good movies.
-I got to hang with some friends that I haven't seen for awhile.
-I GOT A SUMMER JOB! As a REAL social worker! I am pumped about this summer! Not only will I finally get to be home, but I am going to get great experience in the social work field! I will be working at REstart, which is a shelter for homeless youth! I can't wait to build relationships and learn about their lives. I will also be volunteering once a week at Child Protection Center, which is a great opportunity to learn more about the child welfare system. I am sad about not spending my whole summer at kanakuk, but it's time to be at home with the fam. I did manage to find two weeks to work at there so that is good news. It wouldn't be a complete summer without seeing my amazing Kanakuk friends.
Spring semester of 2011 has been off to a great start! I am finally not taking 18 credits and I love the difference in my schedule. I get to start my days with a morning workout, and then watch Regis and Kelly while I get ready for classes. :) My social work classes are great, I love going to them. Right now we are starting the process of finding the practicum we will have senior year. It's exciting but at the same time scary. Am I really going to be a college senior in the fall? Where has the time gone??? Besides school going well softball is also. The team has really started to mesh, and we have really come together. We have our first games this weekend in Mississippi and I'm pumped! We have the opportunity to have a GREAT season! I have reconnected with my love for softball and have enjoyed in more this year than my other two years at school.
Since I have been back, God has really been teaching me about being slow to anger, and loving others as He loves them. In church a few Sundays ago Pastor Tommy said that we are called to love people holistically, the way God loves them. I loved hearing that because that is what I needed to hear. Too often I am quick to make judgments and get frustrated with various people. In order to be a witness I need to love others like God loves them.
This is where I am now! I promise to blog sooner than I did this time!
"Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry" James 1:19
Me and my beautiful sister on Christmas day! Words can't describe how great she is. I love our matching headbands, reminds me of the goold old days when my mom matched us ALL THE TIME! haha!
Ok, I am so sorry for just now returning, I know I said I would be back over break, but I honestly was not on my computer much. I was soaking up as much family time as I could get and it was awesome!
This Christmas break was the best yet!
-I got lots and lots of family time in! (I can never have enough family time)
-It was full of good relaxation and watching good movies.
-I got to hang with some friends that I haven't seen for awhile.
-I GOT A SUMMER JOB! As a REAL social worker! I am pumped about this summer! Not only will I finally get to be home, but I am going to get great experience in the social work field! I will be working at REstart, which is a shelter for homeless youth! I can't wait to build relationships and learn about their lives. I will also be volunteering once a week at Child Protection Center, which is a great opportunity to learn more about the child welfare system. I am sad about not spending my whole summer at kanakuk, but it's time to be at home with the fam. I did manage to find two weeks to work at there so that is good news. It wouldn't be a complete summer without seeing my amazing Kanakuk friends.
Spring semester of 2011 has been off to a great start! I am finally not taking 18 credits and I love the difference in my schedule. I get to start my days with a morning workout, and then watch Regis and Kelly while I get ready for classes. :) My social work classes are great, I love going to them. Right now we are starting the process of finding the practicum we will have senior year. It's exciting but at the same time scary. Am I really going to be a college senior in the fall? Where has the time gone??? Besides school going well softball is also. The team has really started to mesh, and we have really come together. We have our first games this weekend in Mississippi and I'm pumped! We have the opportunity to have a GREAT season! I have reconnected with my love for softball and have enjoyed in more this year than my other two years at school.
Since I have been back, God has really been teaching me about being slow to anger, and loving others as He loves them. In church a few Sundays ago Pastor Tommy said that we are called to love people holistically, the way God loves them. I loved hearing that because that is what I needed to hear. Too often I am quick to make judgments and get frustrated with various people. In order to be a witness I need to love others like God loves them.
This is where I am now! I promise to blog sooner than I did this time!
"Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry" James 1:19
Me and my beautiful sister on Christmas day! Words can't describe how great she is. I love our matching headbands, reminds me of the goold old days when my mom matched us ALL THE TIME! haha!
Sunday, December 5, 2010
FINALS
It is finals week :( :(
Which means I will not have any time to blog.. But I will be back over Christmas break! I have also gotten rid of my facebook so I will not be distracted.. Goodbye to the cyber world for a bit.
When I am back I will be done with statistics and effective communication!!!! Now that is something to be excited about!
Happy December and Merry CHRISTmas!
Which means I will not have any time to blog.. But I will be back over Christmas break! I have also gotten rid of my facebook so I will not be distracted.. Goodbye to the cyber world for a bit.
When I am back I will be done with statistics and effective communication!!!! Now that is something to be excited about!
Happy December and Merry CHRISTmas!
Friday, November 19, 2010
Raven
So me and my roomies are going to Harry Potter 7 tonite, and I am sooo excited!!!! But, it just doesn't seem right without Raven.. Last year she was involved in our every Monday Harry Potter move night.. Sadly Raven is back in Texas, and although I am happy she is happy, I miss her dearly!!!! I have no evening running partner and no one to chop my celery sticks... Raven is such an awesome girl with an awesome personaliy and she will make a great doctor! I love you mucho and our play at MSU will always be in my heart.. You da bomb girl!
I finally got it up there for you!
Picture 1: Softball team going to AfterDARK!
Picture 2: Us on a car ride to go to a haunted corn maze that we never found!
Picture 3: Us on a hay bail at homecoming bonfire!
I finally got it up there for you!
Picture 1: Softball team going to AfterDARK!
Picture 2: Us on a car ride to go to a haunted corn maze that we never found!
Picture 3: Us on a hay bail at homecoming bonfire!
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Driven
I feel so driven to help God's people and to fight social justice issues.. But, I do not feel driven at all to do my homework or study for my tests! Oh how I love college but can't wait to start my career as a social worker! I look forward to being single and on my own! No more due dates or softball practices. Just time to give my job all I can, see the world, and really involve myself in the community! I can't wait to see where the Lord takes me!
Short and sweet!
Short and sweet!
Monday, November 15, 2010
Independence in God's Plan
Sitting here having my quiet time, I realize all I need is the Lord.. Why do I worry so much about earthly things? We do we all worry so much? We spend our whole lives waiting to get things or for something to happen so we can be happier. Happy is now.. Be happy in where the Lord has you. Life on earth is short, don't spend it waiting.. I desire to grower closer to God daily. I need Him more than anything. I pray that I have trust in the plan God has for me. This has kinda been a time of change for me.. I am learning to depend on myself and not those around me. I am praying that God will teach me through this time and bring opportunities my way. I do not want to be in a standstill. I want to get out, meet people, and experience life. I do not want to be comfortable and routine. I do not think God wants me to do the same thing everyday, how are we supposed to minister to people if we don't get out there?
From my favorite TV show "Happiness is a mood, not a destination"
Matthew 6:19 "Do not store up for yourselves treasure on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieve break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in Heaven. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be there also"
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)