Brought up strong

My main thought for this post is to acknowledge my appreciation for our strong upbringing. From both mom and dad we have had two exceptional examples of who we should model our lives after. Yes of course we all try to follow the example of Jesus, but sometimes we forget how to recognize if we are doing our best to do so, and from the examples we have in mom and dad we have seen what to do. I have found many times in my life that I am questioning how I am doing and I do a sort of self-assessment. There have been times when I don't make the cut and other times when I have been so hard on myself and down about my life only to realize that I was doing everything I could. We know how important it is to right ourselves when we have wandered of the 'straight and narrow', yet I think sometimes we forget that we can at times be harder on ourselves than need be. Being positive and optimistic as we have been counseled to be, in all things and especially with regards to ourselves can be a tremendous help and change in our lives. It is not always easy to be happy, but I believe there is little to any reason to remain unhappy for any extended period of time. So let's limit how long we are feeling down, and remember what the Lord thinks of us and our potential. Keep our heads up, and keep up the good work. When you're feeling down, remember all the good you've done. We are who we are and we do what we do for the Lord and for our families, not for recognition. Ever feeling downtrodden then you can give me a call for a pep talk on how much I appreciate you and who you are :) Love you all!!!