Circle of Strength

Good afternoon family. I've let the morning get by me but I've been productive. Our tree is up and lit. My grands helped especially Charm Marie aka "ChaCha". Thanksgiving day was busy and the blessing of having full "bellies" was received and greatly appreciated. I'm very thankful for all God has provided because Lord knows things could have been so different. Yesterday as we gathered to say grace before dinner my daughter made the statement that it was the smallest group of people we've had in a long time. Even though everyone didn't eat with us there was still about 15 total. That's a nice size group. What she said sparked a conversation about "small groups". We all chimed in, made our comments, but what I was reminded of is, it isn't the size of your group, it's the quality. As we move into the new year, each of us should take a look at the quality of our friendships/relationships. How good are they? Are they working for us or against us. Why do we hold on to certain people and why do we let certain ones go. At the same time we should really think about our growth. Is our "circle" filling a need, a purpose? Or is our "circle" made up of people who don't want to rock the boat so they don't contribute at all. I don't know about you but I want people in my life who can teach me something "good", things I need to learn/change, things I need to reach for, things that will "rock my boat" but add value. 2013 has been a good year for my family. We've changed and matured but I/we still have work to do. I truly believe that God is strengthening my network, strengthening my family/friends so that I/we make the right choices and live according to how His word says I/we should. Our network of people have to be people of high standards, people on the move, people doing things better/different/more efficiently. I challenge you as I challenge myself, pray for those who have been placed in "your circle" and pray for those who will enter in. Lastly, have the faith that Daniel had when you're making decisions, understanding that God's way is the only way. There are are lots of lions/tigers/bears waiting on your faith to slip, waiting to devour you. TeamCircleOfStrength. Bblessedloveyou