Christianity | Carmela Snelbaker

Tag: Christianity
- Recalculating………..Return to the Route
  
  Posted at 10:24 PM by carmelasnelbaker
  
  May 5th
  What if one day you woke up and everything that once was, is now completely different?
  
  I know for sure that life is not easy. But I also know for sure that no matter how bad it is, it could always be worse. There will always be something to be grateful for when you have Faith.
  
  To this day I can still hear my mom and dads voices from heaven reminding me how they supported me through a struggle. It often makes me smile the quirky phrases or references they often used.
  
  “Now wait now…….you just have to be smarter than the chair you are working on” dad would say. My dad was a woodworker. I was the upholsterer. Lol
  
  I loved to sew and upholstered many pieces. The fragile antique wood items challenged me. Dad came to my rescue on many occasions.
  
  I know it is much harder to instruct someone and watch them struggle while learning the solution to the problem, then it is to take over do it for them.
  
  I am glad dad chose the hard way and took the time to teach me how to solve problems and contemplate answers rather then taking over and doing it for me.
  
  Being ‘Level Headed” “Humble” and “Wise” were all admirable traits of a good person in my dad’s book. Being open to new ideas and various opinions, were also good traits, but the utmost importance was having courage and confidence in our Inner Spirit.
  
  My 11 year old grandson taught me that true courage comes from God. “I’ll be brave” he would say when being faced with yet another medical procedure or difficult challenge. When he was particularly fearful he would fold his hands a pray. “Dear God, Please take the scary stuff away.” Prayer is powerful when faith is deep.
  
  “When I found that I knew not only that there was God but that I was a child of God, when I understood that, When I comprehended that, more than that, when I internalized that, ingested that, I became courageous.” Dr. Maya Angelou
  
  I find myself hesitating as I write this. The need to use the right words to communicate clearly is Huge! Although my Faith and understanding has never been stronger I worry that the very problem itself is Not the Words that are written, or what we are reading once it is written ….. The real problem lies in the Level of Faith the reader has in what is True.
  
  If your faith is shallow what you read will be understood at the limited level your human understanding will allow. Without Faith in a Higher Power we are limited in our understanding of what is Right and what is True.
  
  It is impossible to communicate the Truth if the reader or the writer has little Faith in what is True.
  
  Without Truth there is nothing. Without Faith there IS no Truth.
  
  In a world of many people, many languages and many levels of Faith, it is wrong for a person, Political Party, or Religious Right group to attempt to be the enforcers of God’s word. The very thought a Church or Political Group would even WANT to make laws and force others to follow those laws is a HUGE example of their Faulty level of faith!
  
  When you feel the need to take over and do things yourself so that your level of understanding is enforced, you are showing how truly WEAK your faith really is…….. HAVE YOU NOT MISSED THE POINT OF PRAYER AND THE POWER OF YOUR GOD?
  
  WHEN YOU FEEL THE NEED TO BLOCK SOMEONE BECAUSE YOU BELIEVE THE OTHER HUMAN WILL FAIL TO SEE IT AT “FACE VALUE” ……. YOU ARE SHOWING WHAT LITTLE FAITH YOU HAVE IN GOD!
  
  IS IT NOT WISER TO PRAY TO THE HIGHER POWER?
  
  IS IT NOT WISER TO ASK FOR GOD’S WISDOM AND GUIDANCE DURING LIFE’S DIFFICULT MOMENTS?
  
  IS IT NOT WISER TO PRAY FOR ALL OF THOSE WHO ARE IN NEED OF GUIDENCE?
  
  DIDN’T JESUS TEACH HIS DISCIPLES HOW TO PRAY?
  
  Re-evaluate your level of Faith………. Let go of human arrogance……..let go of the need to control the outcome of your prayers……… Let God be in control……..Pray for the courage to allow his will to be done as Jesus taught us………..
  
  With Respect, Hope, Joy and Love, Carmela
  Share this:
  Twitter
  Facebook
  LinkedIn
  Tumblr
  Pinterest
  Email
  Print
  Like this:
  Like Loading...
  Posted in Meditative Writings | Tagged #GodIsGreaterThanLife'sUpsAndDowns, baptist church, Carmela Snelbaker, Catholic church, Choice, Christianity, church of god, faith, God, God's will, gratitude, have faith in prayer, hope, inspiration, Jesus, joy, kindness, let go let God, love, lutheran church, methodist church, peace, place God first, positivity, Power of prayer, Prayer, presbyterian church, put God first, Religion and Spirituality, respect, Trust, Truth
- The Tiny Mustard Seed of Faith
  
  Posted at 9:24 AM by carmelasnelbaker
  
  Jul 17th
  In a world so divided on so many topics where human arrogance overflows and has brewed into hate, violence and death over attempts to gain or keep power and control “The Mustard Seed Of Faith” is desperately needed.
  
  When all the lines are blurred and deliberate attempts are made to “muddy the waters” so Truth is never revealed, maybe it is time we step back and look at the bigger picture. See the Human arrogance for what it truly is, and let go of it. Park that Halo you think you are wearing (or deserve) look in the mirror and truly see the person you are. The Human Being that has faults, makes mistakes, that is equal BUT not worthier than any other human being on this earth. A Human Being who may look differently, act or communicate differently and in God’s Eyes is AS Precious but not MORE precious than every other Human Being.
  
  Not until you completely lower your importance to the same level of your oppositions can true communication and understanding be accomplished. It is NOT JUST the “walk a mile in my shoes” reference or belief that is needed. Rather an IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THEIR VERSION OF EXISTANCE that is needed to fully understand and empathize with others. Even more then just listening, it is actively making an attempt at HEARING what another person is saying and also FEELING what it must be like to live in their situation.
  
  Each of us is not without sin, however when communicating with another human being if “their sin” is the first thing that you see or address, at that point might “your sin” be even greater.
  
  One of my favorite Bible verses has always been Matthew 17:20
  
  And he said to them “for truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you Matthew 17:20 .
  
  The parable of the mustard seed also describes how God’s Kingdom grows in the life of each believer. When a person puts their trust in Jesus, the Holy Spirit comes to live within. When the mustard seed is planted in the ground even though it may not be seen by others it continues to grow, rooting more deeply, gaining stength and growing more and more every day.
  
  When carrying the tiny mustard seed parable in you heart it helps us to understand that even a seemingly small act of kindness, saying a faith-filled prayer for someone, or whatever faith-motivated act we take, no matter how small, can have an eternal and mountain-moving impact on another’s life.
  
  It is THIS knowledge and faith that I pray begins to appear more in the world we now live in. As our leaders making laws and often arguing their opinions with great human arrogance, may we all pray and believe with that tiny mustard seed of Hope that it will not be the Human arrogance that prevails but the Mercy, Love and Kindness of God that comes through and moves those mountains.
  
  With Respect, Hope, Joy and Love, Carmela
  Share this:
  Twitter
  Facebook
  LinkedIn
  Tumblr
  Pinterest
  Email
  Print
  Like this:
  Like Loading...
  Posted in Meditative Writings | Tagged Carmela Snelbaker, Christian, Christianity, congress, democrats, faith, FruitOfTheSpirit, gratitude, hope, January6committee, kindness, love, MustardSeedOfFaith, peace, politics, positivity, republican, respect
- The Right Road, Really?
  
  Posted at 2:15 PM by carmelasnelbaker
  
  Apr 9th
  During a cross country trip traveling with my daughter, we sat in a roadside restaurant somewhere in South Dakota. Our attention was directed to a little girl about 3 or 4 years old, I am not sure what she did to get our attention but I remember commenting to her father about how cute she was. “Well, she is definitely a leader” her father commented, and with a chuckle he continues to tell us “I said to my wife, we better make sure she goes down the right road, because if we don’t she will be taking a lot of people down the wrong road with her”.
  
  That quick encounter happened 19 years ago. I have recalled that moment many times since, the memory always brings a smile and a chuckle, and makes me wonder where and what that sweet child is doing now.
  
  In that moment while my daughter and I sat admiring a child who couldn’t contain the Joy the day was bringing her, each one of us were unaware of the events that will be yet to unfold in each of our futures.
  
  Recently during caregiving, the wife of a person I was taking care of stated to me, “if I knew before hand the death and illness my family would have to face, I would never even have gotten married.”
  
  Time is irreplaceable. Life doesn’t allow for “do overs”. It requires us to dive into unforeseen adventures.
  
  Is there really such a thing as “the right road” or is that “road” forever changing and relative only to each precious moment in time?
  
  I have learned that life teaches by experiences. We can try to prepare ourselves and do our absolute best at living “right” and staying on the “right road” but in reality, each moment of the day we are called to improvise and navigate through the encounters life brings to us in that very moment.
  
  The maturity of our faith can change with every new event we experience; new person we encounter or conversation we share.
  
  22 years ago my mother who was nearing death was attempting to prepare me for navigating through my life without her. What she was telling me wasn’t making sense in that moment. It appeared as if she was hallucinating or deeply confused. It wasn’t until after her passing when events began to unfold and the memories of those moments began to become clear.
  
  For months afterward I searched every memory for a deeper meaning, trying desperately to understand the hidden messages she was attempting to place before me. I never felt so alone and unprepared for what was next to come. I prayed desperately for understanding, wisdom and strength to continue on and know what to do next. I searched each word that was spoken to me for a deeper meaning. I ran each sentence over and over in my mind trying to decipher its intended message. Finally, at the point of exhaustion I lay down in a field one night crying hysterically asking God “please just come and be me, because I don’t know how to be me anymore”.
  
  Deep in my heart I knew mothers can’t give up. Responsibilities loom and love reaches out beyond all limitations. It wasn’t until that night laying in the field under the stars when I ask God to take over and help me be me, that I wholeheartedly understood that He doesn’t want us to be doing this alone. He is more than a Prayer; He is our inner strength. He is the very breath we inhale, the Blood that keeps our body alive. He is our Soul. The heartbeat in our earthly body that keeps us alive and carries us through difficult experiences.
  
  My life from this point on has not been easy it has included devastating sorrow with the loss of our 11-year-old grandson but also great appreciation for the Blessing of his presence with us for those beautiful and precious 11 years.
  
  The Holy Spirit within continues to keep me strong and resilient, fills me with understanding, empathy and respect for others, but most of all fills me with Joy every time I am able to share in the daily Miracles and Blessing that continue to prove God’s Love for us.
  
  With Respect, Hope, Joy and Love, Carmela
  Share this:
  Twitter
  Facebook
  LinkedIn
  Tumblr
  Pinterest
  Email
  Print
  Like this:
  Like Loading...
  Posted in Meditative Writings | Tagged #DivineGuidance, #FindingHope, #GodIsGreaterThanLife'sUpsAndDowns, #Life, #lifechallenges, #OvercomingSorrow, #TheRightRoad, believe, blogging, Christian, Christianity, faith, family, God, Grief, grieving, hope, inspiration, love, Mental health, positive energy, positive outlook, positivity, Truth
- What if our most profound education came as we were collecting scars?
  
  Posted at 10:44 PM by carmelasnelbaker
  
  Mar 10th
  Memory is a funny thing, thoughts that are retained from experiences we had can pop up at random times either bringing a smile or sadness.
  
  “You can’t be a good ice skater without getting some bruises.” I remember my dad telling me when he took us to a pond to ice skate with us.
  
  What if the most profound education within a person’s life wasn’t about avoiding the bruises but came within the moments that we were collecting the scars, proving we actually participated and did the best we knew how to do in that moment.
  
  In February I had the opportunity to attend an event hosted by Yokefellowship Prison Ministry and Teen Challenge. I met many beautiful and kind people with an assortment of past experiences who chose to come together to learn, discuss and do what it takes to make improvement in the lives of at risk children and adults.
  
  Listening to the testimonies of several individuals whose past included times of incarceration brought tears. They lived through many hardships as children but their story was not one of blame.
  
  The most remarkable part to me was the fact that at some point the message and comprehension of unconditional love and forgiveness reached past the fear and tough exterior of self reliance and self taught survival, opened the door for Hope and a realization that there is a better way to survive and there are people willing to help accomplish it.
  
  In listening to their testimonies I was reminded of Brené Brown’s book Daring Greatly. She states “Shame is an unspoken epidemic, the secret behind many forms of broken behavior.”
  
  At some point in life everyone experiences painful events. Unspoken burden, embarrassment and shame weighs heavy and traps our life in overwhelming and often debilitating confusion. Once we are able to put words to negative experiences and feelings, they loose power over us.
  
  “Shame cannot survive being spoken. It cannot survive empathy”…… Brené Brown
  
  Their testimony included much more depth then I will be able to explain here but the part that touched my heart was the explanation and recognition that events, bruises and scars from childhood, lay silently hidden and unspoken for many years as they relied on self taught survival techniques to live.
  
  Their loving current day actions of reaching out to rescue others currently living within a destructive lifestyle, bringing them Hope and mentor-ship, embracing them with empathy, understanding, and the Divine Love of the Lord, is admirable.
  
  2 Corinthians 1:4 He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.
  
  “Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path.” Brené Brown Daring Greatly: How the Courage to be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love , Parent and Lead.
  
  I read a blog post from 2016 written by Wandering 40 Days titled The Call to Love, Regardless.
  
  He writes “If we can only identify with and love people who have experienced what we have experienced, then we will fail to love. Just because I haven’t had cancer doesn’t mean I can’t sit and cry with a friend who does. That is love. Just because someone’s struggle is far different from mine doesn’t mean I can’t pause and listen to their heartache and longing for love.”
  
  Our current world seems happiest when it is divided into groups. It seems it starts with political lines but spreads like wildfire finding any reason possible to hate and draw lines in the sand.
  
  As humans our lives and experiences will always have many differences and vary greatly, but the truth is we need MORE LOVE and LESS DIVIDING LINES.
  
  Only when we stop trying to control the outcomes and influence others and agree to open our hearts to listening to other human beings heartaches and longings do we truly experience Agape Love.
  
  When we are filled with Divine and Spiritual Awareness and completely understand that as a Child of God we are Loved Unconditionally, it is only then that we can truly Love others and not fear or feel threatened by our differences.
  
  “Be soft. Do not let the world make you hard. Do not let pain make you hate. Do not let the bitterness steal your sweetness. Take pride that even though the rest of the world may disagree, you still believe it to be a beautiful place.”………….. Kurt Vonnegut Jr.
  
  With Respect, Hope, Joy, and Love, Carmela
  Share this:
  Twitter
  Facebook
  LinkedIn
  Tumblr
  Pinterest
  Email
  Print
  Like this:
  Like Loading...
  Posted in Meditative Writings | Tagged agape love, blogs for peace, Christian, Christianity, hope, inspiration, prison ministry, respect, teen challenge, yokefellowship
- Stop Breathe and Listen
  
  Posted at 6:51 AM by carmelasnelbaker
  
  Nov 6th
  It is customary to focus on the breath in yoga, training the mind to quiet the daily chaos and focus on the internal breath that sustains life. Not only does it calm the senses but also focuses the mind and opens our heart to messages of Divine Wisdom and Understanding.
  
  Wide awake or sleeping we don’t think about breathing it happens automatically. Each day we breathe about 20,000 times.
  
  When we practice mindfulness with each breath we become aware of the common link in all humanity. Without breath we cannot live.When we stop to focus on the breath we can quiet the busy thoughts in our minds that cause anxiety, worry, fear and hate. Until we quiet “self” we cannot hear “Divine”.
  
  Job 32:8“But it is a spirit in man, And the breath of the Almighty gives them understanding”.
  
  John 15:5 ⁵“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
  
  Another common part of a yoga practice is the Tree Pose. I find it fascinating that within the human respiratory system the bronchial tree is significant to the breathing process. The Bronchi themselves branch many times into smaller airways. The airways resemble an upside down tree.
  
  Much like the bible verse states the branches of the bronchial tree cannot survive without the “trachea vine”, and without breath we would not have life.
  
  Although our minds may continue trying to make us focus on human differences if we choose to stop the thoughts, concentrate on the breath and listen to the Spirit within us. Our thoughts can turn from negative “selfish thoughts” to positive “Divine inspiration”.
  
  With Respect, Hope, Joy and Love,
  
  Carmela
  Share this:
  Twitter
  Facebook
  LinkedIn
  Tumblr
  Pinterest
  Email
  Print
  Like this:
  Like Loading...
  Posted in Meditative Writings | Tagged #blog4peace, #Life, #liveinpeace, #LivingInPeace, #loveoneanother, Blog, blogger, blogs, breath, Christianity, community, divine guidance, Divine Love, faith, finding inner peace, focus on the breath, inspiration, Just Breathe, love, peace, technology, Truth, unity, yoga
- “Help Me”
  
  Posted at 3:24 PM by carmelasnelbaker
  
  Aug 13th
  “Help me”. When physical energy is extremely low and life’s burden is heavy, verbal requests are condensed to the most powerful, heart wrenching simplicity. I cannot tell you how many times I have sat with someone facing end of life when the simple request “Help me” is repeated.
  
  As a caregiver I have had the honor of taking care of and meeting many people of many different faiths.
  
  Our lives are so enriched by listening to stories, experiences and traditions of different cultural belief systems and religions. I try very hard to honor each individuals beliefs and show great respect for family wishes and traditions.
  
  The common thread that flows through each experience is that of Love. Love is the great universal connection we all share and we all need.
  
  Divine Love shines through with a beauty, purity and selflessness that is recognizable no matter what “label” it may come wrapped in. As the sweetness of sugar is the base for candies of endless recipes and names, Divine Love is the common ingredient in countless religious denominations and beliefs.
  
  1 Corinthians 13 : ¹³Now faith, hope, and love remain—these three things—and the greatest of these is love.
  
  Inspiration and Wisdom will always find us when we ask for it. It does not have to be requested in lengthy prayers.
  
  There are so many songs that contain so much encouragement and inspiration. I am sharing two of my favorites below.
  
  The simple request “help me” reminds me of the song from the Sidewalk Prophets : Help me find It
  
  Help Me Find It
  
  (The Sidewalk Prophets)
  
  I don’t know where to go from here …..
  
  It all used to seem so clear….
  
  I am finding I can’t do this on my own….
  
  I don’t know where to go from here
  
  As long as I know that you are near
  
  I’m done fighting
  
  I’m finally letting go
  
  I will trust in you’
  
  It never failed before’
  
  I will trust in you
  
  If there’s a road I should walk
  
  help me find it
  
  if I need to be still give me peace for the moment
  
  whatever your will
  
  whatever your will
  
  can you help me find it
  
  I am including the song below I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. This group will be coming to York PA for a free concert. The link to more information and tickets for the event can be found by clicking here look for York PA west york middle school August 26
  
  Another favorite is Come as you are. Teaching us to forgive ourselves for not being perfect and to reach out for guidance and support in making better choices.
  
  “Come As You Are”
  
  Crowder
  
  Come out of sadness
  From wherever you’ve been
  Come broken hearted
  Let rescue begin
  Come find your mercy
  Oh sinner come kneel
  Earth has no sorrow
  That heaven can’t heal
  Earth has no sorrow
  That heaven can’t heal
  
  come out of saddness
  
  from whereever you’ve been
  
  Earth has no sorrow that Heaven can’t heal…….
  
  With Respect, Hope, Joy and Love, Carmela
  Share this:
  Twitter
  Facebook
  LinkedIn
  Tumblr
  Pinterest
  Email
  Print
  Like this:
  Like Loading...
  Posted in Meditative Writings | Tagged #Life, Blog, blogging, caregiver, caregiving, child loss, Christianity, Divine, divine guidance, Divine Love, faith, family, Grief, grieving, Health, help, Holy Spirit, hope, hospice, Hospice Care, inspiration, love, Mental health, Religion and Spirituality, self help, spiritual connections, Spirituality, Truth
- “Angelic First Responders” I’m Glad Our Paths Cross
  
  Posted at 7:33 PM by carmelasnelbaker
  
  Aug 5th
  Somewhere someone is saying a prayer for help, somewhere someone is praying for Divine Guidance to lead them and somewhere else someone is praying for all those in need.
  
  Perhaps there are no accidental encounters in life. Perhaps every person we encounter is a miraculous unfolding of “angelic first responders” unknowingly responding to “911 prayer requests”.
  
  Perhaps Heavenly souls direct us, connect us and cause necessary paths to cross. Those in need of wisdom with those who may unknowingly possess bits of wisdom. Like miraculously answered prayers that calm fears and provide hope and peace during difficult storms in life.
  
  Perhaps it has nothing to do with any level of human intelligence only the willingness to allow our feet to follow and our heart and minds to be open to transmitting angelic messaging.
  
  Yesterday upon completing my daily lunchtime visit I tell my sweet friend “I must go now but I will be back to see you on Monday”. “I won’t be here on Monday” she tells me. “You won’t? Where will you be?” I ask. “I will be with the angels” she tells me.
  
  As a hospice support worker I know that the changes she speaks of are always a looming possibility for many of my patients. It is at this point that my angels in heaven take over and speak for me. I somehow am able to very calmly tell her beautiful stories of my grandson who also traveled this transitional road from earth to heaven and the beautiful messages and signs of hope and strength he shares with me of a Love that is so strong that it can so easily and continuously transcend the distance between Heaven and Earth. Her eyes open with an attention that unquestionably asks for more. “Angel first responders” take over and speak with an eloquence and confidence we humans don’t possess.
  
  Overhearing our conversation a facility aid kindly stops what she is doing and enters into the conversation. I am able to tell her memories of how my grandson loved taking care of the newborn baby that blessed the neighbors family a few months before his departure. How he very quickly earned the title as the “baby whisperer”. How whenever he would hear the baby cry “Give me the baby, guys” he would say. His ability to calm the baby from the hospital bed that had been brought into the home to provide comfort for him was nothing short of amazing.
  
  Even though we attempt to plan our futures, life has a way of dealing us unpredictable surprises. It is within these tragic painful events that we are exposed to an UN-measurable level of education that a person would never choose to experience, but the beauty and depth of faith it can leave us with is life changing. We can gather strength from deep sorrow and an ability to recognize and empathize with others who are experiencing similar difficulties, and when our loved ones in Heaven feel the connection of spirit they intervene and quietly and humbly take over and speak through us with a confidence otherwise unknown to us.
  
  2 Corinthians 1:4 He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.
  
  We are all teachers as well as students. Divine guidance leads us to those who have the wisdom that we need. The most profound messages often reach us when we least expect them.
  
  Even when we may not be intentionally attempting to teach others, our actions and responses often share lessons much greater then words are capable of. Possibly through an angelic blessing being sent to a another soul requesting a message of wisdom.
  
  Thank you Lord for the continued conversation! and for the beautiful army of “Angelic First Responders” answering the emergency prayer requests!
  
  With Respect, Hope, Joy and Love, Carmela
  
  The wool crosses are needle felted from my sheep’s wool. They were inspired by a beautiful lady and her family who I had the privilege of meeting as she traveled the transitional road from earth to Heaven. Her Spirit continues to bless others as I continuously make and share the crosses with others who cross my path. I think of her often and am forever grateful for all the beautiful souls who brighten my life and leave me much wiser and stronger by sharing their thoughts and Wisdom with me.
  Share this:
  Twitter
  Facebook
  LinkedIn
  Tumblr
  Pinterest
  Email
  Print
  Like this:
  Like Loading...
  Posted in Meditative Writings | Tagged #Life, angelic connections, Angels, blogger, blogging, blogs, Carmela Snelbaker, child loss, Christianity, comfort, Divine, divine guidance, Earthly journey, faith, heaven, hope, Hospice Care, Inspirational, joy, love, miracles, peace, Prayer, respect, sharing the cross, signs from heaven, spiritual connections, the cross, Truth, Undying love, wool felted crosses
- “The Luckiest People In The World”
  
  Posted at 10:10 AM by carmelasnelbaker
  
  Apr 15th
  Somewhere along our Journey on earth there is a moment in time that significance of being becomes a realization like it never was before. From that moment on, every moment going forward and every moment in the past will hold a different level of understanding.
  
  Life is like a mosaic piece of artwork. The finished piece is beautiful and we appreciate its beauty at a quick glance, however the true beauty is in the ability of the artist to place many fragmented pieces, otherwise unremarkable on their own, into a completed masterpiece.
  
  Much like Prayer and Meditation when a major life change forces us to stop and dwell in the moment it is then that we start to realize that each ugly fragment in our life is a very important part of a beautiful completed masterpiece.
  
  My thoughts, memories and conversations were drawn several times this week to amazing ways Divine enlightenment finds us through the connection of spiritual souls.
  
  I am forever amazed at how many times God has introduced a new person into my life who holds a tiny piece of wisdom that was the puzzle piece I needed to comfort a worry I was experiencing.
  
  When we stop trying to control our lives and the people around us, and we stop, pray, listen for, and follow God’s direction He will introduce us to spiritual beings who hold Wisdom that we need to continue on our journey. The Mosaic of a Spiritual Soul’s Journey on Earth contains many beautiful fragmented encounters with other Spiritual teachers. Every spiritual teacher is also a continual student as well.
  
  Divine Wisdom flows through each spiritual being who allows their heart light to shine.
  
  The song People Who Need People kept coming to mind this week. “People who need people are the luckiest people in the world” How fortunate we are that God sends his infinite Wisdom through our hearts and lives and connects us all with Spiritual encounters of Divine Love.
  
  Always keep your heart and mind open for Divine Wisdom. The message we are searching for will arrive possibly from a passing encounter with a stranger or a well know friend, we can never be sure.
  
  Open your heart to both Receiving and Giving Divine Love to all people. Realization of significance of being brings both Peace and Joy to each moment in life.
  
  People who need people are the luckiest people in the world……..
  
  Somewhere, somehow we will find a new way of living, We’ll find a way of forgiving. Someway, Somehow, Someday……….
  
  With Respect Hope Joy and Love, Carmela
  Share this:
  Twitter
  Facebook
  LinkedIn
  Tumblr
  Pinterest
  Email
  Print
  Like this:
  Like Loading...
  Posted in Meditative Writings | Tagged #Life, Carmela Snelbaker, Christianity, contentment, divine guidance, Divine Love, Earth, faith, finding purpose, God, hope, inspiration, inspiring, joy, Living in Love, living in peace, living in the moment, love, Mental health, mystic, respect, seeker, self help, spiritual being, Truth
- Are You A Human Doing or Human Being?
  
  Posted at 11:55 PM by carmelasnelbaker
  
  Apr 5th
  How many times do we find ourselves at the end of a day feeling as though we haven’t “accomplished anything”?
  
  The list of things we wanted to get done still hovers in that thought bubble waiting to be crossed off and marked as completed.
  
  How many conversations do we have with friends or family that contain only descriptions of what we’ve done or what we’re planning to do next?
  
  I came upon a sign today saying “There is a reason that we are called Human Beings and not Human Doings”. What an interesting thought to ponder!
  
  As a very active person who likes to stay busy the word human doing did not sound so bad to me, however I realize the thought behind the expression is much more about the emotional and spiritual absence in a person’s life.
  
  A heart that feels like it has to prove its worth will make lists and check off tasks, striving to build a life of meaning. We busy ourselves making to do lists, checking off tasks and constantly talking of our daily accomplishments.
  
  Seeking a feeling of worthiness from tasks and performance leaves you running like a hamster on a wheel never to arrive at your final destiny.
  
  I am sure every person has experienced living as a Human Doing at some time in their life and most likely it is something a heart can slip back into even after recognizing the beauty, peace and importance of learning to BE rather than DO or perform.
  
  A wounded and heavy heart can lie dormant without feeling, almost as if choosing numbing blindness will keep it from seeing pain.
  
  No amount of work or accomplishments will ever make an empty heart feel whole.
  
  Meditation is how we can wake our hearts and learn to be. When we seek to awaken the Divine Spirit within our hearts our hearts and minds are attuned and in harmony with other spiritual beings. Recognizing and accepting Divine Unconditional Love awakens a contentment within us. We experience an Ease of Well-being.
  
  If I share words that awaken a message within you, it is only because an experience or message was awakened within me from another spiritual being. The harmony and positive energy spiritual beings share with each other can only be explained as Miraculous Divine Love and guidance.
  
  As a caregiver who has had the honor of giving care to those approaching life in heaven I am constantly amazed by the wisdom they share.
  
  Psalm 90:12 So Teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.
  
  Each individual is unique and no Human Being is ever perfect. When we are facing end of life perfection and accomplishments no longer seem to be the focus. Imperfect moments are acceptable and there is a genuine purity and honesty in being that is very comforting.
  
  Finding and developing a personal connection with Divine Spirit is not always an easily traveled journey. In sharing end of life experiences with departing souls I’ve found it can also be a lengthy and difficult journey of separation for the soul.
  
  The amazing thing is that, among the disoriented busy activity the brain and body are experiencing, it is possible to reach beyond the physical activity mental confusion and fear to awaken the heart and bring peace with a familiar hymn, scripture reading, rosary or cross.
  
  Like heavy stones beneath rushing water the heart and soul seems to stay anchored in Love and Peace even though the body and mind busy themselves restlessly searching and preparing themselves for the separation of the soul.
  
  With Respect, Joy, Peace, and Love, Carmela
  Share this:
  Twitter
  Facebook
  LinkedIn
  Tumblr
  Pinterest
  Email
  Print
  Like this:
  Like Loading...
  Posted in Meditative Writings | Tagged #Life, blogging, Carmela Snelbaker, Christianity, contentment, divine guidance, Divine Love, hope, Hospice Care, human beings, inspiration, Inspire, joy, love, Mental health, positivity, Truth, Worthy
- No Stocking Up On Bread And Milk For This Mama :)
  
  Posted at 3:57 PM by carmelasnelbaker
  
  Mar 15th
  This week we are shoveling out from a large snow storm that showered our area with 12 to 18 inches of snow. News reports predicted the event giving people time to prepare for the temporary changes a large snowfall causes in our daily routines.
  
  The video below of an eagle sitting on her nest during the snow storm makes me think of the bible verse Matthew 6:25-2725… Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26: Look at the birds of the air; They do not sow or reap or gather into barns, and yet your heavenly father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27: Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his lifespan?…
  
  I wonder if wildlife ever has any moments of fear or dread when facing up coming blizzards that sometimes happen in our life as people do who have lived through difficult days.
  
  What an awesome glimpse at the strength and resilience of wildlife.
  
  As a caregiver who travels to different locations my first action when hearing the storm forecast was begging the garage to fit me in to replace two tread worn tires with a new set to help ensure my safe arrival.
  
  Next step was packing the vehicle with an assortment of safety and emergency supplies so I was well prepared for worst case scenario. The office calls with the game plan of stationing a caregiver at each of our 24 hour care locations for the 24 hour duration. This would help ensure our patients coverage and keep the highway travels to a minimum.
  
  I show up with my “in case” supplies in tow. I was well prepared for possible power outage or lengthy stay. Thankfully my “in case” supplies were not necessary and we were just able to enjoy a relaxing visit watching the snow pile up and enjoy each others company.
  
  My patient commented that I must have been a Girl Scout because I came so prepared. When I had to explain to her “Unfortunately no, I was a Brownie drop out.” we both got a good chuckle.
  
  My preparedness comes from many difficult life events that has taught me to rely on God’s wisdom to give me strength and direction. We all have the ability to survive and thrive independently if we search deep within and find strength from the Higher power. It may not always be easy but it is possible with prayer and Divine Guidance.
  
  Like the verse says “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his lifespan?”
  
  Thank you Mother Eagle for reminding us to Trust more and worry less.
  
  Pray for strength and wisdom then relax into the Joy and Peace that Divine Guidance provides.
  
  With Respect, Hope, Joy and Love, Carmela
  Share this:
  Twitter
  Facebook
  LinkedIn
  Tumblr
  Pinterest
  Email
  Print
  Like this:
  Like Loading...
  Posted in Meditative Writings | Tagged #blog4peace, #bloggersforpeace, #Life, #snowstormstella, blogging, Carmela Snelbaker, Christianity, faith, family, Health, hope, inner peace, inspiration, joy, love, nature, positivity, snow storms, Trust, wildlife
← Older posts
- Archives
  - May 2023
  - July 2022
  - April 2018
  - March 2018
  - November 2017
  - August 2017
  - April 2017
  - March 2017
  - February 2017
  - January 2017
  - December 2016
  - November 2016
  - October 2016
  - September 2016
  - August 2016
  - July 2016
  - June 2016
  - May 2016
  - April 2016
  - March 2016
  - July 2015
  - August 2014
  - July 2014
  - June 2014
  - March 2014
  - February 2014
  - September 2013
  - August 2013
  - July 2013
  - June 2013

%d bloggers like this: