Tag Archives: Heal

Rebound and recover…

30 Saturday Mar 2019

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I’m writing this post from the place I visited exactly two years ago. The view remains spectacular with a few extra “nice to see” things and my life has done a complete 360 in every possible way.

For those who read this blog, you would recall the plan was to take a one year sabbatical and then allow life to unfold. Well, the one year sabbatical did happen, just not the way I had envisaged. And the year that followed was anything but a stroll in the park.

As I reflect on the last two years, I don’t believe I can adequately describe the intensity of the challenges that knocked on my door. But, what I do know with every fibre of confidence is that God remains faithful.

When I tell you that I had no idea life could two feet you (it’s a Sydenham saying) and bring you to your knees… it can. It’s not pretty and it’s certainly painful at the “best” of times. I was tried and tested from every possible position but had the grace to press on because I knew that God remains faithful.

I am also extremely blessed to have a solid group of faith-filled women and men to support me unconditionally. They know who they are and to respect their privacy I will not mention their names. But, there is one woman who I believe is a complete angel on earth and who took me under her wing and wiped my tears and prayed me through the most dire times – Aunty Karen Wallace. She is more than amazing. She certainly epitomises God’s love and compassion. And has without doubt secured a special place in my heart.

I’m all about being fearlessly authentic, and when I say there were times I felt like I could not go on, that every ounce of my strength was depleted and the will to live was running on empty, but between God and aunty Karen, I’m alive and energised to continue walking on purpose.

And so, if at any point you find yourself at a place where you feel hopeless.

A place where you feel completely lost.

A place you where feel like a drifting yacht on a rough sea.

A place where you feel like nothing makes sense anymore.

A place where you feel like your heart has been ripped apart.

A place where you feel like you don’t want to open your eyes to face another day.

Know this… God has a plan. God is in complete control. God has your back. He created YOU with a specific purpose and all He expects is unwavering faith and complete obedience (no matter what the circumstances). He does not need you and I to help Him unfold the plan He designed perfectly and with the right time-frames. Just place your hope and trust in Him.

There were many lessons I’ve jotted down over the last 24months, one of the more crucial ones was to pay attention to the people who are willing to stand in the ring and take the punches with you; those real people (not the fair-weather types) who hold your head up and keep you standing and smiling.

Most importantly, don’t fight the separation process. We know that some people are only meant to be in our lives for a reason, season and lifetime. Holding onto someone whose expiration date has come and gone will cause more chaos and distraction. Again, just trust God’s lead.

And finally, it’s perfectly fine to release (forgive) and love some people (family included) from a distance. Anything or anyone that threatens or obstructs your peace and Divine purpose has no place in your life.

If you are reading this post and find yourself in need of encouragement, allow me to suggest that you pour your heart out to God… be still enough to listen to His voice (yes, He still speaks) and hold onto your faith like never before.

And once you’ve allowed yourself to heal, stand up boldly and go out there and rise and thrive… because God can and will always be the anchor, compass and all-round Navigator you need at any given moment.

Love. Love. And more love coupled with equal portions of boundless faith, grace and mercy be yours this day and always!

One minute with…

12 Thursday Jul 2018

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Dr Mandy Laing, chiropractor extraordinaire, is an unassuming and gentle soul. Many have benefitted from her holistic approach and I caught up with her recently, to find out more about her profession.

* What gets you out of bed in the morning? Knowing that I’ve been given another day to impact somebody’s life. Whether it be with my job by improving someone’s health, sharing the love of Christ with anyone or possibly even just teaching my son something useful for his life ahead.

* What three words would you use to describe yourself? I am strong-willed, supportive, level-headed.

* How would you describe your day job to a child? I do treatments on peoples’ bodies to help them feel better and be able to live better lives.

* What is your biggest achievement to date – personal or professional? Starting my own practice after finishing my masters as a single parent.

* What does a typical day look like for you? Chaotic morning school rush. Workout. Work. Errands. Quality time with my son. Cook. Scattered with eating time and prayer.

* What three words would you use to describe your role? Health partner, leader, helper.

* What are some of your professional challenges (if any)? There are many challenges in the chiropractic profession. We’re private primary health care providers, so we are in no way affiliated with the public health care system. This means after our gruelling 6-year course, there are no postings once we qualify. We must find our own way. Some join other practices, some start their own, some don’t even practice as chiropractors. The market is difficult to tackle due to strict regulations and a lack of public education about the profession. Advertising is not allowed, and medical aids provide insufficient funds for their members, while some don’t cover us at all. We are also still viewed as alternative health care; therefore, we are not always taken seriously and often misunderstood by the medical fraternity.

* Do you have a mentor? Unfortunately, not. I had reached out to a lady who had relocated soon after. However, there are many resources available for the purposes of gaining knowledge and learning from the mistakes of others. An informative book can do you a world of good. Chiropractors are also good with sharing knowledge and experiences.

* If you could change one thing about your working environment, what would it be and why? I would love to work near the beach in bigger premises. This will happen soon.

* What do you like most about your job? Objectively observing people’s lives improve in terms of their pain levels, their demeanour and general attitude towards life. A small bit of pain relief for some people is as good as a holiday. I’m just glad I can help their bodies improve functionally.

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* What advice would you give to those wanting to get into this field? It’s a great health care system. It’s the healthcare of the future. Chiropractic is growing faster than medicine ever did. There are many out there who’ve never heard of chiropractic. So, the opportunities are limitless. It’s natural and holistic and it improves quality of life. Just make sure you’ve got the drive to succeed.

* When was the last time you laughed so hard you cried? Almost every week. I’ve got some awesome friends and a son with a deep sense of humour. There’s never a shortage of laughs with us!

* Given a chance, who would you like to be for a day? Trevor Noah! But a Christian version. He’s got a great perspective on life. Very positive outlook that I enjoy.

* What’s your favourite line from a film? “The problem is not the problem; the problem is your attitude towards the problem…” Jack Sparrow

* What’s your most memorable facepalm moment? Too many to mention!

* What is your guilty pleasure? Anything with caramel.

For more info, log onto http://www.chirolaing.co.za

 

Purpose trumps pain!

30 Monday Nov 2015

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Happy Monday lovelies!

I’m super excited about sharing today’s post.
First, I’m going to start by saying to God be the glory, always.
When we truly surrender and allow the great I AM to take the lead, the results are completely humbling.

I had the honour of chatting to Author Lawanda Peters about her book Beauty for Ashes and couldn’t wait to upload it. This is what she had to say:

* When did you realise that you were going to write this book?
I realised I was going to write a book in 2000, when I was at my lowest. I’d lost *everything* I had – mentally (pretty much), financially, physically. I knew that someone else needed to hear my story; the abuse, failed marriages, rejection, self-esteem issues, etc. I wanted to be transparent and real with people, having seen so much in the church, the world, and family.

* How did the title come about?
The title of my book was given by the Holy Spirit. God spoke clearly to me as I cried out to Him one day; ‘why me’ and ‘how long will I go through this suffering’. And it was in that moment that He responded, “I’m giving you Beauty For Ashes. When you come out, you will not look like what you’ve gone through.”

* Tell us a bit more about this book…
Beauty For Ashes is part autobiography, and part encouragement and empowerment. I share my life in a very sensitive, but real way. As a girl from the South, I grew up on a 200 acre farm and we were a very close knit family. I witnessed abuse and alcoholism from an early age; processing what I know today as rejection or “black sheep” syndrome. All these experiences made me want to share so others could be delivered. In the book, I talk about how I endured physical as well as mental abuse and there’s also a part that explains how I almost lost my son at five months, due to abuse, I also talk about being homeless and going from having everything to losing it all. More importantly, you will see that it was through forgiveness and pure determination to press on and not lose hope that I am still able to stand. This book is more than just my life’s experiences – I share the Word that will help others break free and walk in their destiny.

* Is there a specific message that you would like readers to walk away with?
I would like for every reader to feel enlightened, empowered, and encouraged; knowing that it does not matter what comes your way, you are victorious, and you are an overcomer in Christ.

* Were there any surprising things or let’s say revelations while writing this book?
The revelations in writing this book were evident and very real. Everything I went through was first hand experiences. God has shown me many times that this book would reach millions and many would be delivered from abuse and so much more. He also showed me that it would be not only a book, but a play and a movie. I’m still standing on His word.

* What do you think makes this book different from others?
I would have to say it’s the authenticity! Many times we are taught not to be transparent (not to tell everything), but I was compelled to share in the rawest form ever. I had to let people know that just because you are where you are today, doesn’t mean you didn’t go through things or that you were perfect. He can take our mess and turn it into a message to bring healing to others. So the realness and transparency makes it different and captivating.

* Why should someone read it?
Because it’s not just me telling a story, it’s me sharing my life experiences. There’s no sugar coating, just truth… and this is what brings true healing and deliverance. So, if someone is dealing with, mental/physical abuse, rejection, low self-esteem, broken relationships, a failed marriage, homelessness, being on top and suddenly you’re at the bottom with nothing, asking what’s wrong with me?… after reading this both men and women will have a new outlook on things.

* Have you received feedback from readers?
I’ve received tons of messages from readers. I must say it has been overwhelming and humbling (thankful to God) to receive such powerful, motivating feedback. Many individuals were moved from the very first chapter. I was told by several readers, “Once I started reading your book, I couldn’t put it down.” And, I’ve cried with some, laughed with others, and celebrated with many. All glory belongs to our Father!

* Can we expect more books from you?
Yes, you can expect more books from me. I’m working on my Daily Inspirations book, which will have quotes to encourage and uplift you, daily. I’m also working on another book, Learning To Love You. I’m very excited about where God is taking me. I give him ALL glory, honor and praises.

* Any last thoughts you’d like to add…
I thank God, who truly directs and orders my steps, for all of the opportunities and doors that He has opened and is still opening. I thank you Woman of God for the opportunity, you are an angel sent from God to encourage, uplift and push others into their destiny.

Also, thank you to those who have purchased and supported Beauty For Ashes and LaWanda Peters Ministry. If you have not gotten a copy, please do, you will not be disappointed. It can be purchased at http://www.LaWandaPeters.com. Remember, your best is yet to come!

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured x

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