Grind

Grind. Hustle. Work. Perseverance. All of these words come to mind when I think about what it takes to accomplish our goals. We have to focus and commit to the goal at hand. We have to sacrifice. Sacrifice is where the line in the sand is drawn. Most people give up when it requires more than they initially thought. Our dreams cost us time. They cost us money. Sometimes, they cost us relationships, but its worth it in the end. Grind because its worth it. Grind because you know there’s more to life. Grind because you want to see the manifestation of your dreams coming true. Grind for the next generation. Grind for your legacy.

The Press

We use a lot of olive oil in my house. We use it to cook. We use it in our hair. We use it medicinally as a carrier oil for other essential oils. We love olive oil. In order to extract the oil from the olive, the olives are ground into a paste. The paste is transferred to metal plates and pressed. The press separates the oil from the other contents of the olive. Many times in our lives we find ourselves being separated from people and things we love. We might not understand it. It might be uncomfortable, but there is a purpose. The press helps to produce what's inside of us. The press extracts what's most valuable. What is your oil? Is it that business you want to launch? Is it that book you want to write? Is it that trip you've always wanted to take? There is oil on the inside of you that needs to be pressed. There is something valuable on the inside of you that needs to be produced. Submit to the press...what's inside of you is worth it. 

Tenacity

Motherhood means something different to me these days. I used to define motherhood as someone who has given birth, or someone who has adopted children. However, my own personal journey has given me a few more insights. Motherhood begins with a choice. It is a choice to bring forth life, as well as a choice to nurture the life someone else has given. I made a choice to do the latter, and hopefully one day will do the former.

Motherhood is about tenacity. It is a job you never retire from. You never get a vacation, or a PTO day. The reward is often delayed. The routine is mundane. The laundry is endless. The volume is always high, but it is worth it.

I have a profound new respect for my own mother. Her tenacity is endless. Her prayers ceaseless. Her love limitless. Happy Mother's Day Mattie Mae, and to all the mothers everywhere. You are needed. You are appreciated. You are loved. You are beautiful. You are passionate. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. You are wise. You are blessed.