Illuminated Living

More Than I Deserve

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Illuminated Living

Thank God for compassion, love, and mercy. It’s human nature to believe that we should get what we deserve: good people get rewarded and bad people get punished.

Is that true? Should we get what we deserve? God doesn’t give us what we deserve, which is a reason to repent and a reason to rejoice. God’s sovereign power over all his creation and over every one of his creatures is one of the grandest themes through the Bible. The ways and wisdom of God exceed our finite understanding.

We should be grateful that God has plan despite all of our human frailty.

YOU ARE WORTHY

Our Worth is not really of the “Self” at all; rather, it is worth given to us by God. We are of inestimable value to him.

“Impostor syndrome is a term coined in 1978 by clinical psychologists Dr. Pauline R. Clance and Suzanne A. Imes referring to high-achieving individuals marked by an inability to internalize their accomplishments and a persistent fear of being exposed as a fraud. Impostor syndrome can be defined as a collection of feelings of inadequacy that persist even in face of information that indicates that the opposite is true. It is experienced internally as chronic self-doubt, and feelings of intellectual fraudulence. Basically, it means that you have feelings that you’re not good enough, smart enough, successful enough and that you are only posing as such when the total opposite is true. Although this is also true of men, women tend to experience these feelings more profoundly especially if they struggle with low self-esteem and self-worth. The enemy likes to lay huge guilt trips on us were not good enough mothers and wives and that inner voice whispers loudly at us as we look in the mirror that were not pretty enough, or worthy enough for love. For you gals who really struggle with feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth here are some encouraging verses that tell us that God loves us for WHO WE ARE in Him. We are created Masterpieces in His eyes! “Excerpt bibletalkclub.net

We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. We serve a God that gives grace to our shortcomings. We must avoid the snare of devaluing ourselves. From the moment we were knitted in our mother’s womb we had purpose and worth. Don’t let anyone make you believe you are worthless.

Your past and current mistakes are always, always redeemable!

7 Tips for Combatting Imposter Syndrome

Acknowledge that we all have an inner critic
Practice Affirmations
Accept Yourself As You Are
Practice Taking A Compliment without downplaying it
Remember lack of knowledge doesn’t equal lack of worth
Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
Believe that you are the only YOU that exists (internal messaging)

Words of Encouragement (Video) Michelle Obama on Imposter Syndrome

On Your Mark

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Illuminated Living

On Your Mark(s), Get Set, Go!!!

It’s that time of year again. A time when people are making resolutions, declarations, and writing visions for their life. A time of personal reflection on goals set, goals accomplished, failed and/or derailed.

A few things to keep in mind.

God is in control.
God loves you.
God wants to bless you abundantly.
God is not the author of confusion.
With God all things are possible.
God is Sovereign.
God’s Will is perfect.

Remember: “Many are the plans of a man’s heart, but it’s the Lord’s purpose that must prevail.” (Proverbs 19:21)

As you run the race set out before, keep the faith and don't grow weary.

For A Child Is Born

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Marriage and Family

Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God (John 1:12).

Out-of-Wedlock Childbirth

Out-of-wedlock childbirth refers to a baby born to parents who aren’t married. Of the world’s 140 million births that happened in 2016, about 15 percent (21 million) were born out of wedlock. This global average, however, does not reflect the enormous variation in the proportion of births outside of marriage across countries and regions. Source: The Gospel Coalition

We Act Out Our Beliefs

Speaking to a friend recently about the rise in celebrities having children out of wedlock our discussion baselined with the fact that when it comes to marriage and family; you will either build based on worldly morals or based on God’s design. Personally, I believe God created the family, and He has divine purposes for it.

You can’t speak of God’s design without consideration of biblical covenants. The chief benefit of living according to God’s design; God will never be unfaithful to His covenant promises.

Bible.org | God’s Design For The Family

I’m drawn to share this piece not from place of judgement, but as a baseline for the culture. I believe sexuality is God’s design. He alone can define the parameters for its use. Cultural influences can place immense pressure on people; without full consideration of the consequences. Raising children is a high task. We do ourselves and our children (born and unborn) due service to fully thoughtfully consider who with be governing authority in the relationship.

Having a Child Is Always a Blessing

“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.” Psalm 139:13-16

Jesus In Focus

Learn Religions | “Enjoy the Complete Christmas Story of the Birth of Jesus”

Immaculate Conception via Beliefnet.com | 6 Fascinating Facts About the Immaculate Conception

Internet Censorship

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Tue, 15 Nov 2022 17:10:00 +0000

Technology

“If the First Amendment means anything, it means that a state has no business telling a man, sitting alone in his house, what books he may read or what films he may watch.” ~ Thurgood Marshall

Internet censorship is the control or suppression of the publishing of, or access to information on the Internet. It may be carried out by governments or by private organizations at the behest of government, regulators, or on their own initiative. Source: ACLU

Just google “internet censorship” and go to News, and you will notice how citizens in countries all over the world for battling for freedom of speech.

Tools You Can Use | Federal Communications Commission

In The News | Reported by Washington Times (November 1, 2022) “Biden official disputes role in social media censorship amid court-ordered deposition”.

Tech Quote “The internet is humanity at scale, crammed into spaces owned by a few powerful companies”. Source: The Verge

A Case for Recess

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 21:49:00 +0000

Education

“Every child should have time for arts, music, sports, drama, robotics, school newspapers and the like, not to mention recess and play.” - Chris Gabrieli (An American Education Policy and Innovation Leader)

According to CDC Healthy Schools recess promotes healthy behaviors.

Recess benefits students by:
Increasing their level of physical activity.
Improving their memory, attention, and concentration.
Helping them stay on-task in the classroom.
Reducing disruptive behavior in the classroom.
Improving their social and emotional development (e.g., learning how to share and negotiate).

Studies show that recess has a positive impact on focus, attention, and mood for a child. Similarly, adults report increased mental clarity and a better disposition after a brisk walk or a trip to the gym. In addition, adults and children alike learn better when they take frequent breaks rather than concentrating for long stretches.

RESOURCE

The national non-profit organization Playworks—headquartered in Oakland, CA— is a leader in recess design and operation. Playworks created a free tool for gauging recess quality called the Great Recess Framework and has other resources available such as a game library and information on how to incorporate play into social[1]emotional and academic learning.

Breaks and work performance: two sides of the same coin. You will find that you are more productive when you incorporate more breaks in your day. Read More via Better Up

Emerging Technology Quantum Computing

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 13:00:00 +0000

Technology

"Quantum technologies are difficult to understand, but that will not stop the disruption this set of emerging technologies will bring in the next few years!" -- Kevin Coleman

What is Quantum Computing?

Quantum computing is an area of study focused on the development of computer based technologies centered around the principles of quantum theory. Quantum theory explains the nature and behavior of energy and matter on the quantum (atomic and subatomic) level. Source: TechTarget.com

Qubit is the fundamental unit of information in quantum computing. Learn More via Azure

Fun Fact!

Quantum computing requires extremely cold temperatures. To that end, IBM has built and demonstrated a huge “super-fridge” codenamed Project Goldeneye that chills things colder than outer space.

A brief history of quantum computing by Markus C Braun via Medium

The spark of quantum computing was struck by Richard Faynman. In 1981 at MIT, he presented the following quandary: classical computers cannot simulate the evolution of quantum systems in an efficient way. Thus, he proposed a basic model for a quantum computer that would be capable of such simulations. With this, he outlined the possibility to exponentially outpace classical computers. However, it took more than 10 years until a special algorithm was created to change the view on quantum computing, the Shor algorithm.

Infographic Credit: atos.net

(2022) Current Events | Quantum Computing Race For The Future

Beautifully Aligned

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 20:27:00 +0000

Illuminated Living

2/2/2022

It's not your normal Tuesday — it's a "Twosday."

That's because this Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2022, numerically 2/22/22, is a palindrome date, which means it's the same forward and back.

All the metaphysics aside. Everyday is a good day to take notice of the creator, and all the beautiful ways our lives are kept in alignment. Aligning yourself with God's purpose will lead you to a fulfilling life.

When you try to live your life and accomplish your goals without seeking God first, you're forging a far more difficult path for your life. God has a purpose for your life and he wants to align your life for his purpose.

Everyday is the start of something beautiful.

Finding your Divine Purpose is only the beginning of the story. We must also put in work to keep focused on it.

Pray | Submit To God’s Will | Speak God’s Promises Over Your Life

💡 Bright Beginnings and Endings Happen Everyday

(Video) Are You In Alignment? | Priscilla Shirer

Square Pegs, Round Holes

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 19:58:00 +0000

Illuminated Living

“You'd be surprised how many people violate this simple principle every day of their lives and try to fit square pegs into round holes, ignoring the clear reality that Things Are As They Are.” - Benjamin Hoff

Godly Perspective

The way we see things is not the way God sees things. We have to make a choice to see things from a Godly Perspective. Remember, God has a plan and He will work things out for you just trust Him with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding of things.

[Excerpt] The Gospel Coalition, Seeing All Things from God’s Perspective

I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. Eph. 1:18-19 NIV

Heavenly Father, I make the Apostle’s prayer my own. Indeed, enlighten the eyes of my heart; clear out the gunk; sharpen my focus. Heal my shortsightedness, farsightedness, and the astigmatism of my soul. I want to see everything you want me to see, and to see all things from your perspective. So show me more of the hope to which you’ve called us.

Nobody wants to be a square peg in a round hole; given a choice, most people will "go along to get along." They're willing to do what it takes in order to fit in comfortably with the society and culture in which they live. But there's one group of people in this world who don't have that choice. For these people, conformity is not an option, no matter how much the world insists on it. They don't fit into the world, and never will. That group of people are the disciples of Jesus Christ.

Unity In The Body of Christ

We all have a unique purpose and distinct offering to whole. From the time you were knitted in your mother’s womb your design was planned. Trust that God has the perfect place and timing explicitly for you.

God’s Word says in Ephesians 4:16 that:

“Under His direction, the whole body is fitted together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.”

A Perfect Fit Awaits

So often we are busy trying to fit a square peg (our plans) into a round hole (God’s plan). Once you seek God’s will, He will guide you to a place where everything fits perfectly into place!

When we measure our worth by how well we fit in with a certain crowd, we miss our opportunity to embrace our unique identity in Christ.

You don’t have to fit in to belong.

Psalm 100:3 -- Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are His; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Soulcare

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 23:36:00 +0000

Living Well

Quote of the Day (Soul)

“I am convinced that the deepest desire within each of us is to be liberated from the controlling influences of our own psychic madness or patterns of fear. All other things—the disdain of ordinary life, the need to control others rather than be controlled, the craving for material goods as a means of security and protection against the winds of chaos—are external props that serve as substitutes for the real battle, which is the one waged within the individual soul.” ~ Caroline Myss

The human experience is about layers and levels. Where you are today, may not be where you are tomorrow. What matters most is the depth of your soul. The depth of your soul is your will to live, love, laugh and cry. It’s what makes us human and vulnerable yet distinctively curious and tenacious.

Do Your Soul Work

Soul work is about meeting yourself, making space, and coming to peace within.

Over and over again in Scripture, people are referred to as "souls" (Exodus 31:14; Proverbs 11:30). The human soul is that part of a person that is eternal—the part that lives on after the body dies and decays. Jesus said we were not to fear men, who can only kill the body, but not the soul (Matthew 10:28).

One of my favorite soul verses, “And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?” Mark 8:36

If the soul is so important, why don’t we spend more time taking care of it? We are living a world consumed with vanity and outward displays. All the while souls are dying. Maybe its time to collectively listen to the soul’s cry, and do better.

7 Soul Work Tips

Get Out Into Nature
Nourish Your Body, Nourishes Your Soul (Hydrate and Eat Clean)
Detox your pineal gland
Meditate
Practice Gratitude
Talk To The Creator of your Soul
Say Positive Affirmations to Yourself

It is a sobering thought—every person is a soul, living in a body, and that soul will last forever.

Take care of your soul.

Cheers! To Endings and New Beginnings

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 00:27:00 +0000

Preparing For The Year Ahead

"But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. " 1 Peter 2:9

New Year Traditions and Rituals

Together we draw to the end of another year. Another unprecedented year of historical proportions.

As we approach a new year let us not remember to have a moment of quiet reflection. Reflect on the year gone by. Take account of the things we have learned, opportunities, challenges we overcame, and ways we hope to be better.

Every culture has different rituals and traditions that are practiced at the beginning of a new year. Rituals both support and honor the changes we experience and increase our capacity to overcome adversity, strengthen our relationships, and experience joy and abundance.

What rituals do you practice for the new year?

Church Traditions

NMAAHC | The Historical Legacy of Watch Night

Burning Bowl Ceremony

Many Unity churches hold a Burning Bowl service at or near the New Year. This ceremony is meant to provide contemplative time to select ideas, thoughts, and habits that no longer serve one's highest good. Through meditation, these thoughts are revealed and are written on paper (typically flash paper) and then the paper is burned as a symbol of release. This ceremony creates space in consciousness to be filled with God thoughts, thoughts born from a higher consciousness

No matter how you decide to ring in the new year, I hope you find it as a time of renewed hope, increased joy, and an opportunity to grow into your best self.

🎇 Auld Lang Syne 🎇

Liberty

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 20:35:00 +0000

Akinee's Musings

"Liberty"

Roots Run Deep
Grown In Fertile Soil
Kissed By Sun
Sprawling To Lands Unknown
Connected To A Source Higher
Grounded And Free
Thirst Quenched Only By Living Water
Ties Not Easily Broken
Hunger In Your Belly
Fire Desire In Your Eyes
Will To Choose
Redeemed
Head To The Sky
Blessed By The Son
Life Has Only Just Begun

A.M.

Carry On

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 16:59:00 +0000

Akinee's Musings

"Carry On"

Exhausted of unpacking America's ill gotten luggage.

Tucked away in the crevices are skeletons of bodies that should have grown.

Folds of complacency and self righteousness mixed and matched with whatever suits.

Forgotten truth and bitter lies zipped inside.

Deliberately you packed this master disguise.

Traveling to lands unknown, when you should be taking care of home.

Constitution

A trip well planned, but will we ever arrive??

A.M.

Akinee's Musings

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Sat, 09 Oct 2021 06:04:00 +0000

THE TELLING

Together we are writing a story
Episodes shaping character
Between each line traces of
heartache and sadness
We turn pages on chapters never closed
Discarding scenes that don't fit our narratives
Writing rhetoric that only complicates the simplistic
As the plot thickens
Lessons lost
Weaving webs of deeds good and bad
Drafts on the cutting room floor never explored
Strangled by yesterdays and lies
Tomorrow's the opening scene written by
Cast of Characters Today

The story we tell unfolds...

A.M.

The Light of Courage

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Mon, 10 May 2021 22:26:00 +0000

Illuminated Living

So much time and energy are wasted on fear. The world has made an art out of fearmongering. The exaggerated efforts are a means of control and manipulation. Fear is not a fruit of a holy spirit. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). God has told us over 100 times in His Word not to be afraid. He tells us not to fear because He is in control. He is our refuge and strength.

God gave us a counter to fear. God has given us courage.

What does the Bible say about courage? | GotQuestions.org

Quote of the Day

“We have to be braver than we think we can be, because God is constantly calling us to be more than we are.” ― Madeleine L’Engle

Motivational Minute

Live courageously, and have bold faith.

How to Live a More Courageous Life by Kate Swoboda is the creator of YourCourageousLife.com

Illuminated Bookshelf

Professional Troublemaker: The Fear-Fighter Manual
Book by Luvvie Ajayi

Biblical Meditation

Isaiah 41:10 ESV

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Daily Affirmation

My fears are dissolving. I am bold and courageous.

Emotional Wellbeing

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 18:13:00 +0000

Living Well

Wellness Wednesday

Today listening to Dr. Robin L. Smith on the Karen Hunter Show Wellness Wednesday segment a term was dropped that really got be me thinking. Dr. Smith described Emotional Anorexia as a feeling of hunger, but instead of food, it’s a denial of one’s emotional and spiritual needs and desires.

How many of us are accepting emotional crumbs instead of full meal?

Are we hungry emotionally?

Maybe it is time to get clear on our needs and make emotional wellbeing an ongoing concentration in our lives. We are better for everyone when we are whole and full.

“Feed the truth. Starve the lie.”

― Dr. Robin L. Smith, Hungry: The Truth about Being Full

Wisdom Wednesday

“Then the LORD said to me, “Write my answer plainly on tablets, so that a runner can carry the correct message to others.” -- Habakkuk 2:2

Tools You Can Use

Journaling is great way to get clear about your vision, needs, and your path. I can attest that journaling is way that I have always filled my empty place.

Looking for a new journal check out artist Kadeja Liggans on

Etsy Kligg.Co

Guard Your Heart

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Wed, 26 Aug 2020 15:48:00 +0000

Illuminated Living

Journaling for Mental Health

Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." (1 Samuel 16:7)

Journaling Is a Great Tool for Coping With Anxiety. Journaling is a stress management tool. Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of journaling for health, happiness, and stress management. Journaling can help you get in touch with your feelings and navigate back to center.

Today’s journaling prompt. What’s In Your Heart?

Starting with an empty page begin to write what you are feeling in your heart without judgement. Then breathe and with a prayer release all of it to God by faith.

Prayer

Lord, help me to take your words and bind them upon my heart.
When I walk, may they guide me.
When I sleep, may they watch over me.
When I awake, may they speak to me.
May they be like a lamp and a light keeping me on the way to life. Guard my heart, Lord.

Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.

Life As A Classroom

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Fri, 21 Aug 2020 20:35:00 +0000

Education

August 21, 2020

Across the country parents, teachers and students are adjusting to a new normal every day. By now you understand 2020 is not an ordinary year. The start of the year began with a global pandemic that we are still in the throes of, businesses are closing, events are cancelled, and now we are facing temporary school closures and distant learning. Many are asking will things ever be the same again.

As we journey to new frontiers, we must not forget the important role that education plays in our nation. It is through education that America became a world leader on many fronts. We must not sacrifice our tomorrows because of what we are experiencing today. Education should always remain a priority in our society.

The Role of Education in Society

Education is the social institution through which a society teaches its members the skills, knowledge, norms, and values they need to learn to become good, productive members of their society. As this definition makes clear, education is an important part of socialization. Education is both formal and informal. Formal education is often referred to as schooling, and as this term implies, it occurs in schools under teachers, principals, and other specially trained professionals. Informal education may occur almost anywhere, but for young children it has traditionally occurred primarily in the home, with their parents as their instructors. Day care has become an increasingly popular venue in industrial societies for young children’s instruction, and education from the early years of life is thus more formal than it used to be. One of the most important effects education has on society is giving the people who live in a society the skills they need to compete in the global marketplace, and the skills they need to produce technological goods that can be sold on the open market. Read More The Borgen Project ( The Top 10 Effects Education Has On Society)

History of Education in America

Education in early America was hardly formal. During the colonial period, the Puritans in what is now Massachusetts required parents to teach their children to read and required larger towns to have an elementary school, where children learned reading, writing, and religion. In general, though, schooling was not required in the colonies, and only about 10% of colonial children, usually just the wealthiest, went to school, although others became apprentices (Urban, Jennings, & Wagoner, 2008).Urban, W. J., Jennings L., & Wagoner, J. (2008). American education: A history (4th ed.). New York, NY: Routledge.

11 FACTS ABOUT THE HISTORY OF EDUCATION IN AMERICA via American Board

Education Reform

Illuminated Bookshelf | In her book, An Unfinished Journey: Education & the American Dream, Center for Education Reform Founder and CEO Jeanne Allen, writes that our “nation’s economy and workforce, its culture and stewardship of its past” and the “functionality of its democracy” are dependent on “how we as a nation prepare our youngest citizens for their future.

I believe in the best of us. I believe that at our core we are equipped to overcome adversity and we can do hard things. One of those hard things is designing an education that serves all for the benefit of all. Education is a pathway to freedom and a bridge to brighter tomorrows.

Let’s build a better nation together with education.

As always, thank for reading Illuminated Living where together we shine.

The Light of Empathy

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Mon, 01 Jun 2020 18:00:00 +0000

Illuminated Living

The Good Shepherd has a masterful way of leading his sheep to safety. The Good Shepherd also laid down his life so that we could have life more abundantly. During this time of increased turbulence we cannot neglect to lean in to the characteristics of Christ. If we are indeed born again and made in his image we have to reflect the light of the divine.

One of the ways we let our heart light shine is through empathy.

Got Questions? Empathy

Quote of the Day

Miami Dolphins coach Brian Flores says ‘honesty, transparency and empathy go a long way in making change’

Motivational Minute

While some people are naturally more empathetic, there are exercises that anyone can do to improve.

Tips via @NYTimes “How To Be More Empathic”

Talk To New People
Join Forces for a Shared Cause
Admit You're Biased
Check Your Privilege
Stand Up for Others
Amplify Other Voices
Read Books

Remember that you don’t need to understand everything about someone to make them feel respected.

Let’s Talk About Empathy

ZÓCALO PUBLIC SQUARE explores the topic of “Empathy” with an array of articles that examines both sides the good and ills.

Look For The Helpers

Roots of Empathy is an international organization that offers empathy based programs for children, with research to prove impact. It is a leader in the empathy movement.

Biblical Meditation

Galatians 6:2

Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ

Daily Affirmation

Today, I feel what I feel and continue to "Speak Love".

You May Also Like Illuminated Living Article “I Feel For You”

Keep It Simple

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Mon, 20 Apr 2020 16:46:00 +0000

Illuminated Living

Quotes Of The Day

“There is no greatness where there is not simplicity, goodness, and truth.“- Leo Tolstoy

“It is not a daily increase, but a daily decrease. Hack away at the inessentials.”~ Bruce Lee

5 Ways To Simplify Your Life

Stop Trying To Please Everyone
Organize Your Life
Practice Daily Gratitude
Set Your Life Priorities
Eliminate Distractions

Biblical Meditation 1 Peter 2:21 21 “To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.”

Daily Affirmation | As you begin to focus on your inner self, minimalism becomes the by-product. | Today, I choose to live simply.

Social For Good

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Tue, 24 Mar 2020 16:50:00 +0000

Technology

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16

Let The Good Shine During Dark Times

Since COVID 19 has hit the American shores, I have seen fellow citizens move from complete frenzy to fellowship. In times of crisis, a timeless quote from the late Fred Rogers tends to emerge again and again on social media: "Look for the helpers." This sage old advice, has proven true once again. Even in our darkest times we can be inspired by all the shining examples of love, generosity, and kindness. I believe in my heart the fruit of the Holy Spirit is far more contagious than any virus that may plague us. If we continue to highlight the good among us, it will spread.

What is influence?

John Maxwell says, “Leadership is influence. Nothing more, nothing less.”

Mr. Webster says influence is, “The capacity or power of persons or things to be a compelling force on or produce effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of others.”

Jesus teaches us how to influence people. This is what Jesus did during his earthly ministry. Leaving his throne of grace, Jesus came to earth and lived his life among the lost. He brought God’s grace into everyday settings like people’s homes, social events and the marketplace. Problems and life circumstances were his classroom. We should follow his example. Offering grace and truth, we can be spiritual guides to those who are struggling with life. We can be a positive influence.

A Shining Example

Art work by Chuck Styles

A bright spot on the web over the last few nights has been Derrick Jones DJ known as @DNice #DNiceHomeSchool #ClubQuarantine – One man bought us a VIP Crowd and broke social media records all through the medium of music. If you were there, you know it was amazing.

Key Takeaways

Social Media Consultant Dhariana Lozano breaks down key takeaways for the historic night on IG Live Read More | DhariLo.com

5 Ways Social Media Makes Good Things Happen

By Social Caffeine

Social Media Helps People Make New Friends (All Around the World)
Social Media Makes Learning Easier
Social Media Helps Raise $$$ Millions for Good Causes
Social Media Is Good for Democracy
Social Media Helps Us Find Common Ground

Have you seen true acts of kindness and service in your local communities? Please send a message to Illuminated Living. We would love to shine light and spread the word.

As always, Thank You for following and reading Illuminated Living. Together We Shine! ⭐

Stir Up The Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Mon, 23 Mar 2020 19:02:00 +0000

Illuminated Living

Spiritual Gifts

Spiritual gifts are something every believer is given when they receive the gift of salvation. Just as the gift of salvation is by grace through faith, so are the spiritual gifts. Christianity.com

Biblical Meditation

Stir up the gift is a phrase written by the apostle Paul to Timothy, his young disciple in the faith: “Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands” (2 Timothy 1:6, NKJV).

Motivational Minute

via Got Questions Ministries

Stir up the gift is a phrase written by the apostle Paul to Timothy, his young disciple in the faith: “Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands” (2 Timothy 1:6, NKJV).

The Greek word translated “stir up” denotes the kindling of a fire, as by bellows. Anyone who has ever tended a campfire knows that stirring up the glowing embers of a dying fire can cause those embers to flame up again and burn more brightly. Timothy was to see to it that his spiritual gift did not grow cold through disuse; he was to “stir it up” and keep the fire going.

We stir up the gift by using the gift we’ve been given. We stir up the gift through godly discipline, which produces the fruit of God’s nature in our lives: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law” (Galatians 5:22–23). We keep the gift ablaze by not letting our spiritual selves grow cold or, worse, lukewarm.

Let's all keep our spiritual gifts burning bright during these dark days. Amen!

United States Cracking Down On RoboCallers

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Tue, 04 Feb 2020 21:22:00 +0000

Technology

Robocalls

A robocall is a phone call that uses a computerized autodialer to deliver a pre-recorded message, as if from a robot. Robocalls are often associated with political and telemarketing phone campaigns, but can also be used for public-service or emergency announcement.

In 2019 Americans received over 5.2 billion robocalls.

You will find more infographics at Statista

Current Events

(ABC News) January 2020 Trump signed the anti-robocall act following its bipartisan support in Congress. The Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence Act, or TRACED Act, increases fines on spam robocallers from $1,500 to as much as $10,000 per illegal call.

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Tuesday urged seven gateway service voice providers to assist in tracking down the originators of illegal foreign robocalls.

Such calls often use “caller ID spoofing” to hide their origin by showing a phone number different from the one where the call was placed, and often purport to be a government number to defraud consumers.

According to Engadget DOJ is trying to stop US VoIP carriers from hosting foreign robocalls

[Excerpt] US Attorney Richard Donoghue said in a statement:

"We are using all available tools and resources to stop foreign call center scammers -- and for the first time their U.S.-based enablers -- from conning elderly and vulnerable victims in New York and throughout the United States. Protecting individuals from schemes that result in catastrophic losses to the victims is a priority of this Office and the Department of Justice."

TAKE ACTION | If you get an illegal robocall, report the call to the FTC at donotcall.gov

According to the FCC, there are some easy steps you can take to help reduce robocalls:

Don't answer calls from blocked or unknown numbers.

Don't answer calls from numbers you don't recognize.

Just because an incoming call appears to be from a local number, doesn't mean it is.

Don't respond to any questions that can be answered with a "Yes."

If someone calls you and claims to be with XYZ company, hang up and call the company yourself. Use the company's website to find an official number.

If you do answer a call and hear a recording such as "Hello, can you hear me?" just hang up.

The same goes for a call where you're asked to press a number before being connected to a representative.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Words of Wisdom

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Wed, 15 Jan 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Causes and Awareness

A Guiding Principle

As explained by The King Center, the memorial institution founded by Coretta Scott King to further the goals of Martin Luther King:

Dr. King’s Beloved Community is a global vision in which all people can share in the wealth of the earth. In the Beloved Community, poverty, hunger and homelessness will not be tolerated because international standards of human decency will not allow it. Racism and all forms of discrimination, bigotry and prejudice will be replaced by an all-inclusive spirit of sisterhood and brotherhood.

(Video) Beloved Community
MLK's "Birth of a New Nation" Speech, April 7, 1957, at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama.

The Fierce Urgency of Now (A Call to Action)

“We are now faced with the fact that tomorrow is today. We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now. In this unfolding conundrum of life and history, there "is" such a thing as being too late. This is no time for apathy or complacency. This is a time for vigorous and positive action.”

― Martin Luther King Jr.

We are blessed to be at cusp of a new decade, a new opportunity to build a brighter tomorrow. The need for action abounds. We can all find some way to serve our community, no act is too small.

Visit nationalservice.gov and find a volunteer opportunity.

For the betterment of our world, we need engaged leaders who understand our complex world. The question is not whether volunteerism is a good thing, but rather: how can we provide as many opportunities as possible for our next generation of leaders to serve? Jonathan Greenblatt, The Benefits of Civic Engagement for Tomorrow's Leaders

e-Rase Your e-Waste

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Tue, 14 Jan 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Technology

Tech Term - Obsolete refers to outdated computer hardware, software, technology, services or practices that are no longer used, even if they are in working condition. A technology often becomes obsolete when replaced by a newer or better technology.

Today we are talking obsolete technology and ways we can all dispose of our e-Waste responsibly.

As we began to purge our homes and offices for the new year, we may find ourselves facing mounds of outdated and obsolete technology. Some we may want to hold onto for nostalgia sake and others we simply may not know how to safely discard. Plenty of nonprofit organizations and local communities offer options to help you recycle old electronics. To find a location, just enter your ZIP code at Call2Recycle.org

quotesgram.com

E-waste – A Rapidly Escalating Problem

E-waste is the fastest-growing element of the world’s domestic waste stream, according to a report by the UN’s Global E-waste Monitor .

Tools You Can Use | Nerds On Call | Learn how to safely dispose of your e-Waste.

Be The Change

(Fremont, CA) Lighthouse Shoutout to Keep Bay Area Beautiful started by Nithu Carthikeyan a teenager in Northern California.

5 Ways To Dispose of e-Waste Responsibly

Give Back to Your Electronic Companies and Drop Off Points
Donating Your Outdated Technology
Sell Off Your Outdated Technology
Earth911.com is an incredible recycling resource
Do Your Own E-waste Research

Current Events

According to Open PR global E-waste disposal market is projected to grow at a healthy growth rate from 2020 to 2024 according to new research. The study focuses on market trends, leading players, supply chain trends, technological innovations, key developments, and future strategies.

Insider | 30 things that might be obsolete by 2020

Keep Your Eyes On The Eternal Prize

noreply@blogger.com (Illuminated Living) — Mon, 13 Jan 2020 17:57:00 +0000

Illuminated Living

Motivational Minute

Determination is a positive emotional feeling that involves persevering towards a difficult goal in spite of obstacles. With the Lord’s strength you can do and overcome anything.

Welcome To The Grind 2020,

You are on the path to your personal greatness. You will ignore every urge to quit. You are taking full responsibility for your life. You are working towards bettering your best. You will maintain heavenly perspective, and work towards leaving a legacy of greatness. Evict negatives from your mind. This is your time to shine.

This is your season to rise!

DECLARATION | God you are bigger, better, and stronger than anything this world has to offer. I am yours God! Completely yours! Please continue your marvelous work in me.

A.M.

Biblical Meditation - Proverbs 14:23 “In hard work there is always something gained, but idle talk leads only to poverty.”

Daily Affirmation - I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.