Living After Death

We accept death as life's promised covenant,

But we should not forget all we gain from it.

Look not at it as a sorrowful loss,

But as a wondrous gift from the cross.

Eternally living not only in peace with the Lord,

But through each and every one rewarded.

Deep within, despite their physical leaving,

A loved one is still with us living and breathing.

For our bodies may be unique and born of our own,

We live shaped and molded from what we're shown.

Through laughter, expression, a quote or touch,

Intangible yet powerful, we grasp so much.

So let not your heart weep long and be sore,

Honor and cherish with your loved one forever more.

Written and all rights reserved by Diane M. Shampine 10/23/2018

 

 

 

 

A Mother’s Life

One who always serves others before herself;

One whose eyes may tire but never sleep;

One whose ears may quiet but are never silent;

One whose mind may dream but is full of knowledge;

One whose tongue may meddle but proclaims wisdom;

One whose spirit may flicker, but illuminates elegant light;

and

 One whose heart may weep but always magnifies LOVE

written and all rights reserved by Diane M. Shampine 5/14/17

 

Let's Celebrate

                                               

Each year on this very day an unforgettable occurrence happened.  It’s not anything that is written in the history books, plastered across the news or newspaper headlines.  An occurrence known to only those who were there in the beginning and those I have come to known and personally expressed to. An occurrence that happens every year on the same day in your life too. 

                IT’S A BIRTHDAY!  

Some of you may now think of it as just another day.  But it actually is wonderful day whether you choose to shout it out or keep it quiet.

I, myself, am at an age where I am over the thrills and frills of the traditional birthday celebrations with cake, presents, balloons and parties.  But today, I’m not celebrating my age, I’m celebrating MY LIFE.  I admit my life has not been perfect or always happy and pleasant.  Is anyone’s?  We all have struggles, disappointments and low times.  But I am choosing to celebrate what I have learned, accomplished, became, and where I am being guided.  I am celebrating with the most precious gift I received this morning…another day to try again and do my best.

Two weeks ago, someone asked a dear friend who shares a February birthday and matured in 80 years what her secret to staying so young was. Her answer “It’s all in your attitude and choices. It’s choosing the Lord”.  I say Amen!

So whenever your special day is, celebrate not your age but YOUR LIFE!   

The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate. Oprah Winfrey (courtesy of brainyquote.com)

 

*REDEFINE YOUR FUTURE * BALANCE YOUR LIFE * RECLAIM YOUR HEALTH

More headlines have caught my attention. Each advertising a sole situation.  Not long ago, in my own way of thinking, I was trying to find a way to accomplish each of these goals.  But I kept coming up with an excuse. Then a friend shared with me an opportunity where I CAN and DID accomplish all three. No significant changes and no more excuses.

Redefine your future – (a college ad offering studies in a few career choices)   I’m always looking to try something new and expand my horizons, but I lacked the interest in going back to school.  My adult mind is more confused and stressed just helping my kids with their homework and trying to understand the new ways of arithmetic.  With my new opportunity, I did not need a college education, degree or diploma to get started.  I already had the experience with lessons I learned early on in life. I expanded on what I do best, helping others and sharing important information with them.

Balance your life – (pilates) By raising two active kids, it’s amazing how many forms of exercises you do in a day, including meditation and brain boosting activities.  Most are done spur of the moment.  Now, I get to enjoy more time and THE time with my whole family.  I’m able to listen more closely. I meet and talk with others, whenever, wherever and around my family’s schedule.

Reclaim your health – (fighting obesity) Yes, loosing a few extra pounds, eating healthier and taking better care of my overall health should have been at the top of my list. But growing up sitting at an Italian dinner table eating bread, pastas and cheese made it difficult!  Since feeding my whole body with nutritional supplements, healthier shakes and snacks, I literally lost weight.

I didn’t have to eliminate my Italian dinners or do any major exercise.  I also have gained energy by reducing the toxins that my body, home and environment absorb, allowing me to participate in and enjoy more of the activities with family and friends.

How about you?  Are you ready to Redefine your future, Balance your life and Reclaim your health?  What’s your plan of action?