No Looking Back

There are those days when I often wonder, "did I really hear that correctly?" I may have made a decision based upon prayer and wise counsel and then chaos erupts. I find myself doubting decisions and all anxious within my heart. My emotions are like a rollercoaster ride in a theme park--hold your breath in while you slowly ascend to the highest point and then scream like a little girl as you plummet towards the ground at breakneck speeds. Keep a strangle-hold on the safety bar as you are jerked around and upside down. Up and down, back and forth. You get the picture.

The other night after a very emotionally challenging day, I came to this conclusion. It was time to get off the rollercoaster ride. I don't have the right to look back when I believe God has given me instructions. I have to remain resolute when I make a decision. Sure, the enemy loves to make me crazy and doubt; however, it is my responsibility to stand firm and promise myself, NO LOOKING BACK.

Your life matters

I recently met a lady who told me this story. She had tears in her eyes as she thanked me for making a difference in her life.

"Dr. Tonya, you don't know me but several years ago I heard you in a church services talk about medical mission work. You were getting ready to take a team somewhere and the church was praying for you. While I listened, God spoke to me very specifically to apply for the Physician Assistant program at the University of Florida. I thought it strange since I never had any inclination to do medicine. I was an art history major, content to raise my four children and attend church. But I could not deny that God had spoken. I did exactly that and now I am a PA using my skills to do medical mission work when I can. I am making a difference."

Oh that we would never grow weary and stop running the race. Tomorrow it may be someone else who is influenced by your life. You matter!

Take a deep breath

There are literally days when I sit at my desk in the office and I am overwhelmed. The weight of responsibility feels huge. I get focused on my never-ending "To Do" list which seems to regenerate itself magically. You cross off one thing and instaneously three more things are in its place. There are questions waiting to be answered. Your inbox keeps saying, "you've got mail." Your phone keeps beeping that there is a message waiting. AHHHHHH!!!!!

It is in those hectic moments of my day that I am reminded that all I really need to do is keep breathing. That's right, just take a deep breath. Oh the responsibility will still be there, the questions will still need answering, the inbox and phone will keep sending me those annoying electronic notifications;however, I will still be breathing and that is good for the moment.