Tag Archives: marriage

I do, I do….

14 Sunday Jul 2019

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Earlier this year, I witnessed two people exchange vows before God and family in an intimate ceremony. It was the most beautiful, lump-in-throat wedding I’ve ever attended, and mainly because it was my baby brother Jarryd.

Gosh, it was just the other day that he was a toddler and now, thanks to God’s grace he is all grown and has matured into a responsible, young man. Witnessing him and Taslyn (or should I say Mrs Kast, as she loves telling us) exchange vows before God reminded me that while this might be 2019, and people prefer to “shack it up”, the sanctity of marriage still remains relevant and ever so important.

Forget the actual event for a second because that is not the focal point. It’s the firm foundation (read: God) and ultimate reason for this union that many appear to be overlooking these days.

Marriage is and should always be securely cemented on one thing and one thing alone – the Sovereign God whose unending love and teachings stand the test of time. Yes, love, commitment, devotion, honesty, trust and all those other things are important… after God has confirmed and established that two people should enter into the covenant of marriage.

The sanctity of marriage remains relevant…

It wasn’t long after we celebrated Jarryd and Taslyn’s *big* day, that I received news from two friends who will also be walking down the aisle later this year. The two are super thrilled and can’t wait to pronounce their love before God, family and friends. But, like my one friend pointed out that more than anything, they see their weddings as a reminder of God’s faithfulness in their respective lives. And that what He has predestined… joined together, nothing and no one can derail. (These two friends have the most amazing testimony and is a post for another day).

I’d like to encourage someone out there today, don’t be moved by your situation and hold onto the promise that God’s perfect plan always manifests at the appointed time. Any preconceived ideas or plans we might have about our lives means zero if it’s outside of the will of God.

For anyone who is married, feels challenged and as though you can’t go on then get on your knees and pray. Strong unions and solid families overflowing with love, kindness, compassion and all round goodness is what this world needs.

So fight. Fight through prayer (and fasting if need be) for your spouse and your family. There’s never been a more relevant time for us to pray for the preservation of the sanctity of marriage and restoration of families like right now… all for God’s glory.

Stay fabulous and favoured xxx

Musings and meandering…

05 Sunday Mar 2017

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Earlier today I stumbled upon a business card I picked up while in Perth earlier this year. This was no ordinary card. It belongs to a cab driver turned tour guide for the duration of my stay.

For purposes of this post, let’s call him *Pedro. A soft spoken, unassuming gentleman in his mid-50s.

Anyone who knows me will tell you that I love talking so it didn’t take me long to start “interviewing” Pedro about his life. I was intrigued by his journey and how he landed up in this part of the world.

I was even more impressed by his knowledge of the city and general global topics. I kid you not, you could bring up any subject and Pedro would be able to offer an opinion, facts, figures and some sort of history. I called him a walking-talking encyclopedia.

I think the thing that struck me the most was the way he spoke about his family – wife and daughter. His face lit up when he told me about the day they met for the first time. The hopeless romantic that I am, Pedro’s story sounded like something out of a fairytale.

The pictures just screamed happiness; and when he shared anecdotes about his daughter or how he still gets to have date night with his wife, it made me realise that some people still appreciate and respect the sanctity of marriage. Hallelujah 🙂

Perth is so pretty. The hot, dry sweltering temperatures aside, it was an unforgettable experience. I would have to say the highlight was the stop at The Margaret River Chocolate Co. Every chocoholic needs to add this to their bucket list. As I stepped in, I felt like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. You are spoilt for choice. I wanted something from every shelf but the thought of traipsing half way around the world with a chocolate stash kept me in check.

I also now realise how “Packing for Perth” or “The Australian capital of South Africans in exile” came about. I bumped into quite a few South Africans who couldn’t wait to share about life Down Under.

Not only do I have some fond memories from my time in Perth, I also have a few nuggets from *Pedro. It’s stuff I’ve heard before but somehow… he was on point and because of his PHD in Life, I found myself meditating on these comments during the 17-hour flight back home. And still today.

 For instance, he stated matter-of-factly:

  • “Don’t force anything –  anyone or anything that’s meant for you will appear when the time is right.”
  • “Your authentic self will attract real people and you will never have to second guess their motives.”
  • “Keep your heart open to give and receive love, and never stop being kind.”

As I sit and type this I find myself gazing at my screen for the longest time. The realization that it’s quite liberating when you choose to let things evolve organically.

Thank you for taking the time to read.

 Stay fabulous and favoured xxx

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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A letter to a younger me…

19 Sunday Apr 2015

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Hey there!

The past few weeks have been wonderful. A roller-coaster ride of note.

The good kind though. You know the butterflies in your tummy kind of good. I wish I could explain it.

Let’s just say that it’s even better than the excitement you experience at Christmas or when you hear good news.

This feeling comes with an expectancy that only blind faith produces. You know *that* feeling?!

Anyhow, yesterday I got lost in my thoughts… wondering what I would tell my younger self. And this is what I jotted down:

Dear Younger Self,

You are enough. In fact, you are more than enough and will receive every good thing as and when it should happen.

Trust the process – let the Divine plan unfold as it should.

Don’t you dare for one minute compare your life or circumstances to anyone else. Do you hear me?

Life is not difficult and people are not complicated. It’s the way you choose to approach situations and people that matters and determines whether we view it as “good” or “bad”.

Looking for and holding onto the good in a situation and people does not mean that you are weak. Being passionate or crying at the drop of a hat is all okay. What some perceive to be naïveté in your approach to life is fine. That’s who you are.

You see, when the Lord created you and defined your purpose, the specs were designed for you and you alone. Not everyone will understand your journey and not everyone will be rooting for you (family included) and do you know what, that’s perfectly fine. You may feel let down and a tinge of disappointment but choose not to dwell on it for longer than a minute 😉

The gems (specific people) that have been strategically placed along your path are more than those set out to frustrate you. Besides, like my mentor says, your haters are your interns that work for free. Think about that for a minute…

You see younger self, the only person you need to please is God. He alone is the Author and Finisher of ALL things in this world; and He is the only One who can honestly stand in judgment of you. His love and grace is sufficient, cling to that!

So, wonderful person, as you navigate the course of life there will be defining moments, laughter, tears (lots of them), disappointments, celebrations and mourning. Embrace it all.

When all is said and done this is your story, this is your testimony and with God in the driving seat, you are guaranteed victory.

Stay true to yourself and strengthen your relationship with your Creator daily; it’s the one relationship you should guard fiercely. And for as long as this relationship is the foundation of all others you can’t go wrong; even your marriage should have God at the centre.

Be kind, be loving, be YOU.

From,
Your older (and through grace) wiser self!

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay favoured and fabulous x

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With this ring…

09 Monday Feb 2015

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You know, every single time I hear about a couple that has chosen to walk away from their marriage, my heart breaks a little.

I’m old school like that.
I am also a hopeless romantic who believes in the sanctity of marriage.

Earlier today, I received some grim news. Dear friends of mine announced their decision to pull the plug on their union. I listened without uttering one word then hung up and I cried like I lost my best friend.

I mean, these two were meant to live happily ever after. These two were that couple that I could see growing old together, sitting on rocking chairs and waxing lyrical about the days gone by…

So many questions…
So many tears…
So many fond memories…

I remember like it was just yesterday that I witnessed these two saying “I do”.

My heart leapt with delight as I watched this couple declare their love and commitment.

They were the picture of thoughtfulness and treated each other with tender love and respect; we often joked that the Heavens opened and smiled each time these two appeared. This was a union made in the stars. Or, so we thought.

I mean, if ever one wanted to witness a beautiful display of commitment and love, that wedding day was punctuated with the most memorable moments ever. From the bride making a grand entrance in her Cinderella style dress, to the exchange of vows, the first dance and then of course the joint task of cutting the wedding cake.

So many questions…
So many tears…
So many fond memories…

But, like they often say, life happens…

Thank you for taking the time to read. And, if you are married or planning to be, may your vows stand the test of time and hold on to Matthew 19:6.

Stay fabulous and favoured x
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What I know for sure…

13 Thursday Nov 2014

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**Disclaimer: this post is a tad long.

Yesterday a friend asked me how much I would share on this blog. My response : “How long do you know me?”

I’m the poster child for transparency. What you see is what you get. You know when I’m happy, sad or indifferent (which is rare).

 So…

My parents split more than two years ago and it was the most gut-wrenching experience ever. It was like someone had plunged a knife right through my heart. I had so many questions and sadly very few answers.

People say it’s easier when you are older. I beg to differ.

Here was a couple who had just celebrated their 40th Anniversary; these were the two people that my world revolved around. I spent many nights trying to figure out: What? When? Why? How?

To this day I cannot find the logic but have come to learn to trust the process.

Today, I’d like to share about my father (or Daddo as he was affectionately known). If you speak to my siblings they will tell you that I was always Daddo’s girl so it’s probably why I took the split the hardest. While I have no doubt Daddo loved us all dearly and unconditionally, Kalê (my eldest sister who had cerebral palsy) was definitely his little girl.

I remember quite vividly how they connected… and marveled at how he and my mother took care of her – as best they knew how. Having a special needs child is not for the faint-hearted. My parents excelled in this role.

For her petite, beautiful self (oh yes, of all the kids she was blessed with a peaches and cream complexion, long black eyelashes and hair that would put any Pantene ad to shame) she was quite a handful at times. Everyone thinks I’m a drama-mama but looking back I think I pale in comparison to Kalê. 

Because she couldn’t talk, Kalê and Daddo had their own secret code when it came to communicating – they would make these gurgling sounds or exchange looks that only they could understand. And not to mention those hearty fits of laughter they shared when he tried to do something comical to keep her entertained. Those images are forever ingrained in my memory. But I digress!

You know, my father was no saint but as I mature I realise that in fact none of us are perfect or without fault. Warts and all, in the bigger scheme of things he was a one in a million and we couldn’t have asked for a more devoted, caring father or husband; even on those days when he chose to take a vow of silence and sulk for reasons only known to him.

During one of our heart to heart chats he cried and said that there were many times he wished he had lots of money because there was so much he wanted to do for us. But, I allayed his concern and reminded him that what he instilled in us and gave us over the years was worth far more. His love for the Lord and unwavering faith was admirable, even when things seemed hopeless.

Some of the fond memories I have:

* We used to write little notes asking him for 50c (it was a lot back in the day) for school, and inevitably we’d find it next to our lunch the next morning.

* Friday’s were our treat day and I guess this is where my love affair with chocolate began.

* We’d never admit it (oops I just did), but Daddo spoilt us.

* Music – Peaches and Crème, The Manhattans, The Temptations, The Ink Spots (especially that song entitled the Gypsy), Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole. He’d whistle the tune of Mona Lisa when my mother was nagging about something 🙂

* Sport – we’d sit with him in the wee hours watching marvelous Marvin Hagler (I’m really giving my age away now) and even Kalê would squeal with delight when uppercuts and heavy blows were exchanged.

* Soccer – United and Orlando Pirates – heaven help us on the days when Man United lost. I don’t even think Sir Alex Ferguson took their defeats so seriously.

Why am I sharing all of this?

Simple.

I may never know or completely understand why my parents went their separate ways. I’ve moved beyond the anger, pain and heartache. I’ve chosen to embrace the lessons from this part of my life’s journey.

What I know for sure: given the chance to start all over again and if God allowed us to choose our parents, I know we would all choose Daddo again.

Thanks for taking the time to read.

 Stay favoured and fabulous x