Feeling Successful...

There are many times in a day where we can feel successful. For those of us who dwell in the little things, waking up feeling refreshed is a success. For parents, having a child (no matter what age) choosing the right path is a success. Things in our lives can force us to see things in various ways, depending on our circumstances. I can attest, as of today, I am feeling successful!

These last few months of trying my hand at glass mosaics was a shot in the dark. I knew I could do it, and that it may not cost me too much to start doing them. The Lord has held back His favor and grace from me in this realm for 5 years now, and it has been a very long hard road. Today, after selling a piece twice over within the week I finished it has shown me that I may very well be within the realm of His will for me. How precious a moment to realize that His grace is upon my life's work! I can't tell you the emotional reward it has given me. Not only to realize His blessing, but to have friends, family, and friends of friends reach out to me with requests for pieces of my mosaic glass work!

Now, I'm taking it very slowly. I've only had 12 pieces that have been completed and have reached potential buyers' eyes. Yes, I have taken the prices down from what I want, to what I think they will sell for, due to the location I'm in, and my friends' abilities. I'm not ashamed of that, nor am I sorry. I have to get my name out there, and after only a few pieces, how can I not feel good? This week alone I put a piece together of a cat because of a friend's suggestion, and have sold it twice over. Not too shabby for a 4 day output. I'll take it.

For this 5 years, I have been striving toward attaining a job that would allow me to use my skills as a graphic designer. That, after probably 30 applications/interviews, (way more applications), has gone unfulfilled. I've questioned God and His plans for me, being uncertain and afraid to be an independent  with what I have to offer the world. I want to work, but WHAT my work was had become less in demand. This new realm of glass mosaic work has broadened my reach, broadened my output, and has been very well received by people both near and far. I honor the Lord in this and all of my efforts. He is the reason I am successful, and the reason I continue in this world. I know His plan is not finished in me, and I blindly trust Him to show me what I need to be and do in order to feel His glory, and to glorify Him in my work.

Just today, after months of nothing, I had a friend reach out to me in regard to a part time opportunity at a college nearby, doing graphic design work. I wasn't anticipating that, but wow! What a blessing! It's still uncertain, and it may be that I'm not the right fit, but to have God's grace show up during the success of my current efforts was awesome! Praise the Lord!

I can't say that this time in my life has been easy... nor would I wish it on anyone. I have dealt with some serious downs, anxiety, and depression. It has pushed me into a different mold, where being a round block pushed into a square was painful and difficult to endure. But, within that, I have gained ground in patience, strength, and endurance. I know what His will for me is becoming a reality.

Don't give up on your goals. I was never sure what my goals actually were... but with regular prayer and waiting, He has rewarded my efforts. Please know that nothing is easy... for people like me, nothing is taken for granted, nor is it easy to face. If you have need of talking about where you're at, and what you're dealing with, I'm always here. My faith in Christ is beyond measure the reason why I feel successful today.

Be encouraged!