My "Relationship" Driven Life

Dear Readers-

Today I had an ah ha moment...

I am driven by relationships  in my life.

I am- officially- okay with it.

By now, you should know how much I value people and really honor  them as a gift (*blessing) in my life.  It's been a learned attitude that fits more of my character as a woman of God, but also just as a sister, daughter, wife, mother, colleague, mentor, and friend.  

You just can't build this world up for ANY good without good company.

Bottom Line.  

You. can. only. go. as. far. as. the company. you. keep. will. let . you.

When I was a kid, I never dreamed past my career.  My mom and dad came from the Philippines and new opportunity came through education.  So, I was always driven to get the degree that was going to get me the job that was going to pay me the salary so I can afford to sustain a life with a house, a family, etc.  There was nothing wrong with this dream, but, at 22, when I achieved it, It didn't feel like it was enough.

So, I kept searching. 

The search lasted over 10 years.  It landed me a couple of part time jobs, a boyfriend then husband, a LOT of moves, kids, more jobs (just unpaid), and more kids.

At times, I thought I had hit it big- found my place of fulfillment- but, it always seemed short-lived.  I struggled with either feeling different then everybody else  or just lonely.  

Now it's been a couple of years, with the same people, and, officially, settled into a home (long-term we think) for over a year as of last week.  I feel- safe enough to admit- it's the relationships I keep NOW that are most important.

In this season of life, I declare -  My RELATIONSHIPS ARE MY PRIORITIES!

I'm driven to protect them and honor them any chance I get!

Here's my list in order:

1.  My relationship with God - through faith in Jesus and the lead of the Holy Spirit

2.  My relationship with my husband- as companion and co-parent

3.  My relationships with my kids- as nurturer and trainer

4.  My relationships with my extended family- as daughter and sister

5.  My relationships with my friends- as listener, encourager, and helping hand

I value all of these relationships in my life and am SO thankful for them.  Because I have them, I feel open to ANY of life's possibilities and really have maintained A LOT of joy in the midst of transition and change.

I am currently in the middle of of two lifestyle changes-  (1) clean eating/meal prep and (2) exercise.  This is my first time in years,  not being pregnant and I am very AWARE how worn out my body is and how poor I eat.   Raising small kids and working means a lifestyle of body neglect and convenience eating.  So, to stay healthy, keep up with my kids, and model a healthier way of living, I am committed to figuring these things out for my family's future.  

If I don't take care of myself, how am I going to benefit the ones I love.

If I don't take care of the ones I love, how am I going to sustain the good company.

Life- it's a group effort.

Better spent living, loving, and learning together.

Thanks for being in my life guys!

With Love. Always, 

Crystal