Thursday, May 2, 2013
Since I have my hands full this month I thought I would keep it simple and post something uplifting that is helping me right now.
As rough as things become, love always seems to carry me through. Love from God. Love from my husband and kids. Love from my extended family. Love from my friends in the US and around the globe. I wake up every day and thank God for this new day I'm given.
You can never have to much love and light in your world. Here are some songs that I've been listening to that have lyrics to remind us that as much as we want to be in control, God is the One in control.
Peace and love,
Laura
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSIVjjY8Ou8&sns=em
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqrsELRaabo&sns=em
Monday, April 1, 2013
Resurrection
Resurrection can be defined as a revival or rising
up from the dead. The idea of something coming back to life after
being dead is truly amazing, a miracle. Yet, this is exactly what
happened! God sent his only Son to Earth so that he would be among us
to show us the way to God. He then paid the ultimate price for our
sins. He died for us, then He rose again! We remember this sacrifice and praise
Him. I am forever grateful to God
for sending His Son to die for us.
Matthew 28:1-20 NIV
"After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’ If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day. Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”"
Matthew 28:1-20 NIV
"After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’ If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day. Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”"
Friday, March 1, 2013
Distractions
I'm going to share something that happened to me recently. I mentioned in the past that there can be misunderstandings in email. Well, I received a ranting, raging email from someone a few months ago. At first, I didn't know what to think because I never knew this person had such animosity towards me. But this email, said things I would never tell a worst enemy. That's how cruel it was. It was filled with hate and lies. I was so angry when I received it that I wanted to send a blasted email back and dispute every false allegation made against me. But instead, I restrained myself and sent a simple reply telling her she was wrong in her accusations and that she should be more careful in what she writes to me or to anyone for that matter, that her words should be truthful and factual. No one likes to be falsely accused or to read wretched words slathered about themselves. Unfortunately, my response or lack thereof, brought about more angry and belligerent rantings from her in her next email. I finally just sent another short reply stating how I wasn't going to participate in an "email feud" and that she shouldn't contact me unless she was apologizing. Needless to say I haven't heard a word from her since then.
I tell you this because I heard someone talking about avoiding distractions recently. I started thinking about what distractions really are. They are diversions, things that prevent someone from giving full attention to something else. I realized....People like her are distractions. They may be someone who you can't befriend, someone who doesn't like you, or maybe doesn't want to see you happy. Don't give them any power over you. You can't control them. But you can control how you react to them.
The first few days after this incident happened, I was so angry. Partly, because I felt betrayed. I couldn't believe someone could be so hurtful, and for her to do this a month after my Mom passed. Why are people so mean, I thought. I spent a day in self doubt, wondering if anything she said about me might be true. But after reflecting and praying, I realized that day spent in self doubt, was a wasted day. Never again will I allow her or anyone to make me second guess myself like that. I think we all have had someone who has tried to bring us down at sometime or another. I encourage you to not let that person tear you down. Many times, what's being said to you is more of a reflection of the other person and their insecurities and not really about you at all. Focus on the truth, who you are and what you stand for. Surround yourself with positive people and don't let these small things worry you. I call it seeing the big picture. What is the big picture? Well, for me, I remember the Bible passage, Matthew 22:36-40. The Pharisees asked,
"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied, "Love the Lord, your God with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it. Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and Prophets hang on these two commandments."
I need to focus more on these two commandments. Let go of any anxieties or worry and just live according to these two principles. If you offer love and peace, but it's not well received or returned, it's ok. Keep focusing on the big picture, and everything falls into place. When you are confronted with insults or lies, you'll get better at disregarding the distractions, instead of reacting to it. As for my situation, I know I need to forgive her. Knowing life is short and precious, I just want a peaceful life. But I'm learning and forgiveness is something I'm still working on. But, yes, I will forgive.
I tell you this because I heard someone talking about avoiding distractions recently. I started thinking about what distractions really are. They are diversions, things that prevent someone from giving full attention to something else. I realized....People like her are distractions. They may be someone who you can't befriend, someone who doesn't like you, or maybe doesn't want to see you happy. Don't give them any power over you. You can't control them. But you can control how you react to them.
The first few days after this incident happened, I was so angry. Partly, because I felt betrayed. I couldn't believe someone could be so hurtful, and for her to do this a month after my Mom passed. Why are people so mean, I thought. I spent a day in self doubt, wondering if anything she said about me might be true. But after reflecting and praying, I realized that day spent in self doubt, was a wasted day. Never again will I allow her or anyone to make me second guess myself like that. I think we all have had someone who has tried to bring us down at sometime or another. I encourage you to not let that person tear you down. Many times, what's being said to you is more of a reflection of the other person and their insecurities and not really about you at all. Focus on the truth, who you are and what you stand for. Surround yourself with positive people and don't let these small things worry you. I call it seeing the big picture. What is the big picture? Well, for me, I remember the Bible passage, Matthew 22:36-40. The Pharisees asked,
"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied, "Love the Lord, your God with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it. Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and Prophets hang on these two commandments."
I need to focus more on these two commandments. Let go of any anxieties or worry and just live according to these two principles. If you offer love and peace, but it's not well received or returned, it's ok. Keep focusing on the big picture, and everything falls into place. When you are confronted with insults or lies, you'll get better at disregarding the distractions, instead of reacting to it. As for my situation, I know I need to forgive her. Knowing life is short and precious, I just want a peaceful life. But I'm learning and forgiveness is something I'm still working on. But, yes, I will forgive.
Friday, February 1, 2013
Poetry
I've become more interested in poetry recently. Such a wonderful way to express yourself artistically. You can write about past experiences, dreams you may have for your future, or write about the feelings you're having right now, anything you want. When I was in high school I enjoyed writing poems but lost that as I got older and life got busy. But we tend to reflect more I suppose as time goes on, and its healthy to get those feelings out. I encourage you to do something that lets you express yourself and how you're feeling, whether it be journaling, blogging, writing, new hobbies, counseling, whatever.
One of Oprah's favorite poems was Phenomenal Woman by Maya Angelou. I can see why she loved it so much, very powerful. See it below.
Phenomenal Woman
BY MAYA ANGELOU
Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.
I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size
But when I start to tell them,
They think I’m telling lies.
I say,
It’s in the reach of my arms,
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It’s the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can’t touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them,
They say they still can’t see.
I say,
It’s in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The ride of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
Now you understand
Just why my head’s not bowed.
I don’t shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing,
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It’s in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
the palm of my hand,
The need for my care.
’Cause I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
I'd like to share a poem that I wrote a few weeks after my Mother passed away. Now, don't expect the level of poetry as you just read in Ms. Angelou's poem. I'm merely an amateur at the art of poetry writing, but a poet all the same. :)
Mom
By Laura Garcia Kakar
I heard her today.
Her voice was clear.
"Vamanos, mija!"
And her laugh I could hear, but I turned to reply
And nothing.
I saw her in a dream.
She whispered, "I'm with you",
And hugged me close.
And I awoke wanting more of her embrace,
But nothing.
I smelled her scent in the air today.
It filled my eyes with tears.
I know only time can keep us apart.
But she is near, she is always with me.
Thanks, readers for your support and always looking forward to tomorrow.
Lots of hugs and love,
Laura
www.dallas-sleep.com
www.marykay.com/lkakar
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Power of Words
Power of Words
Recently on Facebook, I updated a status of, "There is such power in words. Best to keep them few and well chosen." I think this resonates with so many of us. With words, we can bring to life a story from our childhood. We can make someone feel so much happiness with just simple praise or we can tear apart a relationship with hurtful, cutting words like a sword. It's so easy to let your mouth run away but when words are out of your mouth, they're out there. You can't take them back. Sometimes, a person may be so deeply wounded by hurtful words, it takes years to repair the damage.
For this reason, think before speaking. Don't let anger or rage get the best of you. In a heated situation, give yourself time to cool off and then speak to the person with a cooler head. Remember, the bigger picture, which is to have a resolution, not necessarily to make the other person cower. A couple of years ago when I first started attending Chase Oaks Church, one of the first sermons I heard from Jeff Jones was about word power. I kept notes and he spoke about how lying takes away trust and how gossip leads to trouble. At the conclusion, he said that you should only speak words that are True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, and Kind.
These days, many conversations are had through email which can be very tricky because there can be major misunderstandings in an email. If you do find yourself in "email argument" choose your words wisely. Some say give yourself 24 hours before sending a reply to a nasty email to someone.
Another way to use words is when speaking to yourself. Joyce Meyer's book, Change Your Words, Change Your Life, talks about speaking faith and not fear. She quotes scripture, "The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?" Psalm 118:6. A book I'm reading currently by Joel Osteen called, I Declare, has a positive declaration to speak over your life daily. Day Three says, "I DECLARE I have the grace I need for today. I am full of power, strength, and determination. Nothing I face will be too much for me. I will overcome every obstacle, outlast every challenge, and come through every difficulty better off than I was before. This is my declaration." Wow, after reading that, I'm excited. I'm fired up!
In the morning, speak words of truth and love to yourself. With the world being as hard as it is, why should we be any harder on ourselves? Instead, lets start each day with words like, "Today is a new day and it will be great!" And, "Thank you, Lord, for another day with my family. Thank you for giving me a job to go to so I can provide for my family. Thank you for giving me another day to live."
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Reflection
I was looking at myself in the mirror and it made me start thinking about time and how you always think you have more of it. Lives change in a matter of seconds. You hear people say, "live each day like its your last with someone". I always thought that was just a silly cliche people had a habit of spouting out. Now, I see. Now, I know what it is to have someone taken suddenly, unexpectedly. You're left in shock not knowing exactly what to do or think. Then you grieve. And grieving is interesting because some days you're fine and you think you're holding up pretty well. Then some days, you're a crying mess. I think of Mom often, every day, and keep saying things I think she would have said in given situations. She was so funny all the time and loved telling her jokes. That's when I remember to thank God for giving me 38 years with my Mother. I was blessed to have someone who I could always call at any hour of the day. If I called my Mom in the middle of the night, she wouldn't get mad cause I called her late, she was concerned and wanted to help me. There's not many people who wouldn't mind late night calls like that.
But I have all of my support in place. I feel close to God. I feel Him pulling me up, lifting me out of darkness. Love and support you get from your family and friends is so overwhelming and much needed. We all feel connected in some way and need to lean on one another to get through adversity.
Reading is my life also. One of the books I've been reading is Jesus Today and its filled with inspiring bible verses and stories beside them. There are too many verses which I highlighted but want to list a few of them here.
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:6-7
"The Lord your God in your midst, the Might One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17
"I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory." Psalm 73:23-24.
Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid." Matthew 14:27
"You will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13
But I have all of my support in place. I feel close to God. I feel Him pulling me up, lifting me out of darkness. Love and support you get from your family and friends is so overwhelming and much needed. We all feel connected in some way and need to lean on one another to get through adversity.
Reading is my life also. One of the books I've been reading is Jesus Today and its filled with inspiring bible verses and stories beside them. There are too many verses which I highlighted but want to list a few of them here.
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:6-7
"The Lord your God in your midst, the Might One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17
"I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory." Psalm 73:23-24.
Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid." Matthew 14:27
"You will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Mom
Oralia G. Garcia
1947 - 2012
Oralia G. Garcia, loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, went home to Heaven to be with Jesus on October 29, 2012 at the age of 65. Oralia was a strong, courageous, and loving woman who will be missed by all who knew her. She had a kind and generous heart and a wonderful sense of humor. She is preceded in death by her brother; Robert Guerra and step father; Frank Cruz. Survivors include her parents; Carmen Cruz and Simon Guerra, her husband of 44 years Jose M. Garcia, daughters; Cynthia Garcia, Laura Garcia Kakar and son in laws Dr. Raj Kakar and Joe Contreras, and grand daughters; Sophia Hope and Amber Grace Kakar. She will also be missed by her sisters; Delia Gonzales, Andrea Garcia, Herlinda Meneses and Rachel Avila, her brothers; Adolfo Cruz, Ernest Cruz and Bernard Cruz. She is preceded in death by her sister in law; Maria Stewart and brother in law; Felix Garcia. Her surviving in laws; are Elodia Astran, Janie Ruiz, Josefina Franco, Jesus Garcia, and Santiago Garcia. She has numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.
Visitation for Oralia will be at Mission Park Funeral Chapel South, Monday, November 5, 2012 from 6:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. with the Holy Rosary to be recited at 7:00 P.M. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated 9:30 A.M., Tuesday, November 6, 2012 at St. Lawrence’s Catholic Church 236 E. Petaluma 78221. The interment will follow at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery.
For personal acknowledgment you may sign the guest book at www.missionparks.com in the obituary section.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)