Matthew 10:16

"Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves..." This is a test for me. The scripture is from Sunday's gospel lesson. I understand what it means, although I'm not all that fond of serpents I know that they are cautious and smart in avoiding danger and harm to themselves. This combined with the innocence of a dove seems incongruent at first thought, and then, impossibly wise upon further examination as it stands in relation to sin. Here's where the test comes in. I'm still sporting the "complaint free" bracelet on my arm as I assist in tackling a persistent problem at church that grows larger every day. I'm well-armed with this verse from Matthew. Wish me luck with the complaints!

Life is Good!
Indeed it is.

Living Complaint Free?

Well, not exactly... I continue to try and live a happy and rewarding 'complaint free' life. It's not easy at all, in fact...it's very hard. I have gone one(!) day without moving my bracelet; and, in all fairness, I must admit that the one day in question is one where I never even left the house! (That shouldn't even really count, but I'm claiming it anyway.) It's so much easier to live without complaining, criticizing or gossiping when I'm not surrounded by temptation~ by the world. If you're so inclined, give it a try, challenge yourself. Even though I am certain it will be a long, long time (months? a year?) before I remove my bracelet I can tell you this much: the attempts at cultivating this habit are already yielding some great rewards. I am happier, calmer, and more productive. All that from this simple little wrist-reminder? You betcha!

Transform your Life

"Your thoughts create your world and your words indicate your thoughts. When you eliminate complaining from your life you will enjoy happier relationships, better health and greater prosperity. The Complaint Free program helps you set a trap for your own negativity and redirect your mind towards a more positive and rewarding life." -Will Bowen

Life is Good!

Dogwood Days, No Complaints

My husband says that this is his favorite time of year; the Dogwoods have absolutely burst into bloom in the last few days. North Carolina is a wonderful place to call home, apparently this Bluebird agrees, I shot this photo from my Studio window this morning! I'm eager to watch his little family hatch and fledge in the upcoming weeks.

On the recommendation of a friend I picked up a book the other day: A Complaint Free World by Will Bowen. I'm taking the challenge and will soon be sporting the tell-tale purple bracelet (it's on order, I'm wearing a chartreuse substitute in the meantime) which demonstrates to the world my commitment. I will wear the bracelet until I can go 21 days straight without complaining, gossiping or criticizing. I'm convinced that the premise of cultivating positive energy through a powerful physical reminder will work, one day at a time, until an affirmative and happy, complaint-free, lifestyle is solidly formed! Wish me luck.

Life is Good!




23. Make friends with Godly people.