BROKEN....

Just when I had thought that I hit rock bottom after enduring four years of pure anguish trying to cope with Fibromyalgia and chronic pain, I've come to the shocking conclusion that it was actually NOT rock bottom. Rather, what I am struggling with at the present moment is truly my rock bottom.

Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined myself PHYSICALLY DISABLED or HOME BOUND from deteriorating illness, but this has become my cruel reality. In an attempt to regain my complete health (body, mind & soul), I will share my journey through blogging. Perhaps, if nothing else may be gained from writing, I will provide my readers inspiration, hope, useful information, helpful resources and creative insights for their own personal challenges.

Writing has always been a very therapeutic way for me to work through my emotions, thoughts and adversities. In my personal experience there is something CLEANSING about releasing deep emotions through writing. Expressing oneself by writing where it hurts and taking time to journal is an extremely important part of the healing process. Not just for me, but for you, too.

It's all about LETTING GO....

Letting go of the past, the life you desperately longed for, the heart wrenching grief, the traumatic events and the agonizing losses. The act of letting go is not an easy or swift process. It entails time, energy, honesty and courage. Most importantly, letting go requires intentional digging beneath the solid core of our very being.

No more avoiding our troubled thoughts or memories. No more wearing superficial masks. No more pretending that we have it altogether or acting as if everything is perfectly fine. Burying our heads in the sand and refusing to confront the serious issues deep within our heart and soul is actually more hurtful than helpful.

Today, it is time to be REAL. For we are only human and we are imperfect individuals living in an imperfect world. While this may sound pessimistic, the good news is that we have a Heavenly Father who created us for a much higher purpose. He sent His beloved son, Jesus Christ, to take all of our imperfections and sins upon Himself by sacrificing His life on the cross. Christ died a brutally painful death on the cross to save us and to provide hope.

The bible verse in John 16:33 declares that in this world we will have trouble, but to take heart, Jesus has overcome the world. Despite all of the unrelenting blows that have brought me straight to my knee's, I persistently hold onto HOPE. Without hope, I never would have made it this far. With hope, there are many POSSIBILITIES.

Having possibilities changes my former perspective from dark & gloomy to joyful anticipation of a brighter future. Suddenly, the dark clouds vanish into thin air. My focus is no longer consumed on my never-ending aches and pains. Instead, my complete attention is focused upon our Heavenly Creator who has my entire life inside the palm of His hands.

Softly, He whispers, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9) Tears of joy run down my cheeks and I am filled with abundant gratitude. In all of my imperfections, weaknesses and sin, God still loves me, He accepts me and He considers me the apple of His eyes.

This is the very hope that spurs me onward to overcome my horrendous challenges with my health and wellness. When the sleepless nights have me restlessly tossing and turning, I lean on Jesus to get me through the night. When my body is throbbing and my muscles hurt from the slightest touch, I remind myself of my favorite scripture that says, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13)

This does not mean that I never struggle with self-pity, anger issues or frustrations because I most certainly have my moments. Upfront, I want to clearly state that my faith in the Lord does not mean that I am exempt from falling flat on my face in utter disgrace for failing to be a "perfect" Christian.

Therefore, as you read my blog, please keep in mind that I am a woman of faith who seeks to live a Godly life, yearns to trust the Lord with all of my heart and never doubt the paths where He leads me. Yet, I have moments of questioning why God allows me to suffer excruciating pain, what God is doing and how He expects me to endure continual hardship without being overwhelmed with despair.

The bottom line: I am a BROKEN vessel of God....

Being totally broken is not such a bad thing after all. It has humbly taught me to stop relying on myself, controlling every aspect of my life and taking things into my own hands without FIRST seeking God.

Although, I may never understand why the Lord has permitted me to tiresomely struggle with Fibromyalgia, ADHD, four bulging discs, gluten intolerance, Interstitial Cystitis and excruciating kidney stones, it does not mean He has abandoned me or He is surprised by my state of health.

I believe that God does not cause brokenness, nor does He cause pain, but He may powerfully use it to soften our hearts, to build our character and to make us sensitive to the Holy Spirit. This teaching is supported by Psalms 51:17, which boldly states, "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise."

While the Lord may mightily use our brokenness for a higher purpose, the bible clearly indicates that He does not condemn us for being broken. More importantly, the Lord does NOT intend to leave us broken. A good example is Psalm 34:18-19, "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and SAVES those who are crushed in spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord DELIVERS him from them all."

Our Heavenly Father desires His children to be complete and whole, not sick and suffering. Being whole requires the divine grace of God to bind up our broken hearts and bodies to make us complete. Because we are broken and Christ is whole, we stretch out our hearts in faith to Him in expectation to be made complete. Whether my wholeness occurs on earth or in heaven, I confidently anticipate what is yet to come.

Copyright © 2009-2012 by Dana Arcuri. All Rights Reserved. No part of this blog can be reproduced, copied or distributed without express written permission of the Author.

INTRODUCING: WRITE WHERE IT HURTS

It's amazing how God orchestrates our lives behind the scenes to connect us to new individuals for a higher purpose. The Lord makes "divine appointments" for us to cross paths with others for a variety of reasons.

He may bring someone into our life in which we are called to reach out to them for encouragement and support. Other times, God connects us with individuals for our own benefit to receive unexpected blessings in one form or another.

Approximately five years ago, God used a Christian website to connect me with a warmhearted woman named Jo Ann Fore. She is a talented writer, editor, speaker and published author. Although we never met in person, we discovered we had many similarities and became friends. What I admire most about Jo Ann is that despite her own hardships, she is always uplifting, ready to provide a word of encouragement and is an inspiring overcomer!

Last year, I had the privilege to work with Jo Ann on a writing project for the encouraging book INSPIRED WOMEN SUCCEED, published in May 2011. This writing project, which included 40 amazing women of faith, was most definitely one of those "God Moments" when you know beyond a shadow of doubt God ordained every word printed within the pages.

Recently, I had another exciting opportunity to work with Jo Ann as a writer for her website WRITE WHERE IT HURTS. I am thrilled to be a part of her writing team! The purpose of WRITE WHERE IT HURTS is to provide encouragement, hope and spiritual growth to heal past hurts. Writing is used as a therapeutic method to successfully overcome painful experiences using practical tools to live victoriously.

On a personal note, I have been journaling since I was a teenager and it has been extremely beneficial. Journaling helps me to come to terms with my emotions, learn from past mistakes, confront difficult issues, gain new insight and actively make positive changes for the better. Writing is my unique way of expressing myself and allowing God to work in my life.

I write. I cry. I pray. All the while, God is powerfully taking hold of me to make Himself present by revealing His truths. He gently comforts me and directs my writing as He sovereignly ministers to my very soul. Journaling has been my saving grace and it has made a dramatic difference in my healing process.

The picture posted on the upper left hand corner of this blog is an apple tree from my back yard. Read how God creatively used this broken apple tree to provide me hope. It's my first post titled HOPE GROWS ON AN APPLE TREE.
http://writewhereithurts.org/2012/02/hope-grows-on-apple-trees/

Also, please visit WRITE WHERE IT HURTS for inspiring and encouraging articles wonderfully written by Jo Ann Fore as well as her writing team. To help you along your writing journey, Jo Ann provides healing tools and writing prompts. This website is your safe haven to write and heal! http://www.writewhereithurts.org/

Copyright © 2009-2012 by Dana Arcuri. All Rights Reserved. No part of this blog can be reproduced, copied or distributed without express written permission of the Author.

TIMES ARE TOUGH, BUT GOD IS BIGGER!

There is a saying that Jesus will not give us more than we can handle. From my own experience, Jesus may certainly give us more than we can handle. I'm living proof!

Last year was a complete shipwreck with numerous abnormally LARGE issues occurring simultaneously. Yet, God was with me the entire time, despite the wild storm crashing to and fro. If it were not for my strong faith in the Lord, I don't think I would have made it this far. But God is so very FAITHFUL and He will not leave His children to flounder or worse....drown.

Instead, God will be right by our very side to lift us up in times of turmoil, to keep us from drowning when the deep waves violently pull us under. God will provide unexpected blessings and miracles along the way to encourage us to continue trusting Him and His promise that He will NEVER leave us. His word in Hebrews 13:5 declares, "I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU, NOR FORSAKE YOU."

Difficult times may be tough, but God is so much BIGGER!!! Our God is a POWERFUL God who has you in the palms of His hands. Be confident that in His timing and in His own majestic way, according to His higher purpose for your life, He will provide for all of your needs. No matter how challenged, discouraged or frustrated you feel, never lose HOPE because better days are ahead of you, my friend!

Copyright © 2009-2012 by Dana Arcuri. All Rights Reserved. No part of this blog can be reproduced, copied or distributed without express written permission of the Author.

NEW YEAR, NEW BEGINNINGS

What I love most about celebrating this New Year is knowing that it's a fresh new beginning with a clean slate. For me, it's time to let go of the past....the good, the bad and the ugly. Starting over means moving forward to have new hopes, dreams and prayers for 2012.

While it may be tempting to join others in making New Years Resolutions, I'd rather start a prayer journal filled with meaningful goals, prayers and aspirations for 2012. Each month, I track my list and check it off as it is accomplished. When necessary, I give myself the option to revise my list because in reality life doesn't always go as planned.

There are times when God is silent and I'm waiting on Him for answers or a clear direction. Yet, there are other times in which God is boldly speaking, opening up new doors and miraculously altering the very course we walk right before our very eyes.

The best thing about beginning a new year is that the Lord will have many exciting opportunities ahead of us along with beautiful, life-changing blessings to draw us closer to Him, mold us into the person He ultimately destined us to be and to build our faith as we reach out to serve others.

I look forward to 2012 with joy, anticipation, hope and trust that God has AMAZING BLESSINGS in store for us! May you continue to walk in faith with the knowledge and confirmation of the love, grace and provision our Lord provides for us. HAPPY NEW YEAR & HAPPY BEGINNINGS!!!

Copyright © 2009-2012 by Dana Arcuri. All Rights Reserved. No part of this blog can be reproduced, copied or distributed without express written permission of the Author.

A MEANINGFUL CHRISTMAS GIFT

Christmas does not mean going broke....all it takes is a little creativity to make homemade gifts or to reach out & touch someones life in a positive way. This holiday season, how about giving a gift from the HEART?

Bake Christmas cookies for your lonely neighbor, donate gently used toys for a single mom who is struggling to make ends meet or help trim a tree for the senior citizen whose spending his first Christmas alone. Never mind with going into debt or getting caught up in commercialism....step out & give a MEANINGFUL Christmas gift. Shine your light for those who are less fortunate this Christmas season! ♥

Copyright © 2009-2012 by Dana Arcuri. All Rights Reserved. No part of this blog can be reproduced, copied or distributed without express written permission of the Author.

The "REAL" Meaning of Christmas

No sooner did we wrap up our leftover turkey from Thanksgiving Day and barely digest our hearty meal when we're bombarded with every imaginable Christmas commercials and advertisements demanding for our utmost attention to buy the "perfect" gifts for our loved ones. No doubt, every year the TV screen flashes a fabulous red sports car with a beautiful red ribbon suggesting that Christmas would simply NOT be Christmas without purchasing this!

It's no wonder a large percent of our nation succumbs to the commercialism of the Christmas holiday by starting their shopping frenzy on Black Friday. Regardless of spending quality time with family to celebrate Thanksgiving Day, much of our society camps out on the curb of Best Buy and Walmart with the hope of finding the best bargain, rather then give thanks for the abundant blessings the Lord has bestowed upon their families.

Perhaps, I would have been tempted to do the same if it had not been for my husband getting unexpectedly laid off of work two days before Thanksgiving Day, which was the third layoff within two years? Being dirt broke may dishearten many, including myself. Yet, I have come to realize that struggling financially has actually drawn me much closer to the "REAL" meaning of Christmas.

By not having any extra money to shop 'til I drop, I have completely avoided the chaotic shopping malls, exhausting long lines, packed parking lots and temperamental customers boldly spraying mace at innocent shoppers just to grab the last electronic gadget! Rather than have a pity party or feel sorry for my families unfortunate circumstance, I have actively set the FESTIVE MOOD for the approaching holidays by decorating our home for Christmas earlier than usual.

With Christmas carols blasting in the background, my husband, teenage daughters and I enjoyed candy canes, while decorating our Christmas tree this week. It was so much fun goofing off with my teenaged daughter's wearing their red Santa hats, while I twirled around dancing to Amy Grant's Rocking Around the Christmas Tree!

I loved going down memory lane admiring all of our Christmas ornaments, which I gave to each of my children from the time they were tiny tots. Through the years, it's added up to a LOT of Christmas ornaments with a beautiful meaning behind each one of them. Suddenly, as if a light bulb were instantly turned on, I was struck with the realization that MY HUSBAND AND THREE KIDS ARE WHAT MAKE CHRISTMAS BRIGHT!

Despite my husband and I being out of work, encountering major financial challenges and not being able to purchase Christmas gifts, I have been humbly reminded that Jesus has provided me with the BEST Christmas gift of all....my loving husband of 23 remarkable years and our three beautiful, healthy kids. Simply said, money could NEVER buy love, treasured memories or the most precious relationships in my life.

Most importantly, our lack of income has helped me to SIMPLIFY CHRISTMAS and to CELEBRATE THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST, who is the ULTIMATE reason for the season! By simplifying the holiday season, it provides more opportunities to keep the main focus on our salvation through Jesus Christ, which has an eternal purpose. Just as the bible states, it's best to store up our riches in heaven, rather than on earth.

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:19-21

This Christmas may not be filled with glitz and glamour, but one thing it's going to definitely be filled with is having a joyous Christ-Centered Christmas and Jesus close in our hearts! If you and your family are striving to have a Christ-Centered Christmas, I encourage you to visit THE HUMBLED HOMEMAKER who shares excellent idea's on how to simplify Christmas. The author of this blog has joined five other bloggers who are sharing their insightful idea's on how to keep Christ in your Christmas for a blog hop & link party.

Please visit THE HUMBLED HOMEMAKER at this link:
http://www.thehumbledhomemaker.com/2011/11/christ-centered-christmas-keeping-gift.html

FROM THE ARCURI FAMILY TO YOUR FAMILY, MAY YOU HAVE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!


Copyright © 2009-2011 by Dana Arcuri. All Rights Reserved. No part of this blog can be reproduced, copied or distributed without express written permission of the Author.

SURRENDER CHRONIC PAIN

In March 2008, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and my life was turned upside down. Due to chronic pain, I was forced to resign from the job I loved. At the time, what I didn't realize is that God had a higher purpose for pain and He can use it for all His glory through me.

One month, after resigning from work & feeling hopeless about my future, God reignited my lifelong passion for writing. My faith inspired writing ministry was born & my life suddenly had a much significant purpose along with joy! Despite the chronic FMS pain, in June 2009, I earned extra income by having five articles published. In May 2011, I became a Contributing Author of INSPIRED WOMEN SUCCEED in which I shared how the Lord gently directed me to follow His ultimate calling upon my life to write from the heart & soul.

Yes, I may endure chronic suffering & pain, but I still have so much more to offer and I'm using the talents God has blessed me with. If you are struggling with physical or emotional pain, take heart my friend, God has MUCH MORE to accomplish in your life. Step out in faith to trust our Heavenly Father can use you through your weaknesses!

Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)

Instead of using all of your time and energy wrestling with difficult circumstances where you may have little control, turn your focus off of your suffering and focus on the goodness of God. By surrendering your chronic pain to the Lord, you will open up new blessings of wholeness, richness and positive change. The faithful act of surrendering to God will produce ripe fruit that will overflow in all area's of your life to positively impact the world around you as His light & glory BRIGHTLY SHINES upon you!

Copyright © 2009-2011 by Dana Arcuri. All Rights Reserved. No part of this blog can be reproduced, copied or distributed without express written permission of the Author.