Who Am I

I am very thankful God has not forsaken me. Last Thursday I attended the Memorial Celebration of Jesus Christ death anniversary in our church. God is always good. He "cares to know my name; he cares to feel my hurt." God is still true to his promise of a new Paradise in a new Earth. I am now reflecting on an inspiring song "Who Am I" by Casting Crowns. Hope you would like it as much as I did.

Who Am I - Casting Crowns

Who am I, that the Lord of all the earth
Would care to know my name
Would care to feel my hurt
Who am I, that the Bright and Morning Star
Would choose to light the way
For my ever wandering heart

Not because of who I am
But because of what You’ve done
Not because of what I’ve done
But because of who You are

I am a flower quickly fading
Here today and gone tomorrow
A wave tossed in the ocean
Vapor in the wind
Still You hear me when I’m calling
Lord, You catch me when I’m falling
And You’ve told me who I am
I am Yours, I am Yours

Who am I, that the eyes that see my sin
Would look on me with love and watch me rise again
Who am I, that the voice that calmed the sea
Would call out through the rain
And calm the storm in me
Not because of who I am
But because of what You’ve done

Not because of what I’ve done
But because of who You are
I am a flower quickly fading
Here today and gone tomorrow
A wave tossed in the ocean
Vapor in the wind
Still You hear me when I’m calling
Lord, You catch me when I’m falling
And You’ve told me who I am
I am Yours

Not because of who I am
But because of what You’ve done
Not because of what I’ve done
But because of who You are

I am a flower quickly fading
Here today and gone tomorrow
A wave tossed in the ocean
Vapor in the wind
Still You hear me when I’m calling
Lord, You catch me when I’m falling
And You’ve told me who I am

I am Yours
I am Yours
Whom shall I fear
Whom shall I fear
‘Cause I am Yours
I am Yours.

Who Am I - Casting Crowns Music Code

Spending Summer Vacation

Teachers are given privileges to enjoy a two-month vacation. What a relief from our physically and emotionally demanding job! How about you? Whether you're working the 9 to 5 grind or self-employed, you need to take time away from work--extended time, like a good 10 days or more at least once each year, more often if you can. That means taking the time to renew and restore your overall well-being. Sometimes I stay right at home, but I set boundaries around my time and energy by screening my phone calls, spending very limited time on the computer, and not accepting any requests that don't support my overall well-being. This time is spent slowing down mentally and physically and doing things that make me happy and feel relaxed.

Even though I am at home, I let my family and friends know up front that I will not be available during this time. I highly recommend not taking your laptop on vacation and keeping your cell phone off as much as possible. If you must check for messages, check your caller id directory list at night, as this will minimize your impulse to return calls. I plan a retreat once a year; one that will revitalize and seek renewal of the mind, body and spirit. For example, I plan to go to a spa or get a massage. I plan to hike a mountain every morning. I practice meditation, met and connect with new people, attend nutrition and cooking classes, and end each day with a relaxing spa treatment. This type of vacation creates lasting results to your overall well-being. I also take at least one long weekend (Thursday or Friday thru Sunday) every quarter to create enriching experiences. Are you ready for a great summer vacation? I know you are as excited as I am. But remeber make a list of things you want to do to get started. It's a must not to spend more money than you budget. (Later I'll post here my list of things I want to do this whole summer vacation).

Taking a vacation can be as easy as sitting in the hammock in the back yard. But if you're going to be making your way to a summer resort, make sure you have all the funds you need to do what you want so you won't be stressed financially. Wherever you are, make sure you laugh each day. Laughter truly is one of the best medicines for lightening up our lives and helping us to feel a sense of joy every day. Do something you've never done before. A change is as good as a rest they say, and there's nothing more exhilarating than trying out an activity you've never pursued--especially while on vacation.

Whether it's scuba diving, trying a new food or learning a new board game, let your imagination run with ideas about how to spend some of those lazy summer days. Stay true to your health. Whether you're on vacation or at home or work, it's important to keep your health regime going on a consistent basis. Go ahead and indulge while you're on vacation, but do keep at least the basics of your daily health routine in place so your body and mind aren't confused or overwhelmed by a sudden change.

Remember that your quality of life is important, so keeping your routine going whether day-to-day or on vacation will serve you well in the long run. Give yourself 2 or 3 days after you come back from vacation before returning to work if you can. Going from major relaxation back to a hectic pace overnight can rev your body and mind up too soon. Having a day or two to unwind after your vacation helps the transition.