Change is definitely in the atmosphere. As a topic that has been permeating throughout our community, the necessity for change is all around us. However, changing one’s self is not an instantaneous thing, but more so a process that requires not only the desire to change, but the willingness to do the work associated with it. This work oftentimes includes changing how you think about yourself and the world in which you live, or cognitive restructuring.

Cognitive restructuring is the process of changing our subconscious thoughts. Individuals have the opportunity to identify negative, irrational beliefs and replace them with truthful and rational statements. For example, you may have the underlying belief that “change is overwhelming.” Because of this belief, you may be apprehensive when change appears and are unable to handle any transitions. However, in restructuring your thought process, you can overcome this belief by beginning to tell yourself that change is something that can be tolerated.

The Bible is full of opportunities for cognitive restructuring. Where we may dwell on different negative thoughts, the Word is there to refute those irrational beliefs and replace them with thoughts based in truth. Below are some examples:

We say: We're in an economic crisis. I'm not going to make it.
The Word Says: I have no lack for my God supplies all my needs according to His riches in glory. Phil 4:19

We say: I'll never be more than who I am today.
The Word Says: I have put off the old man and have put on the new man, which is renewed in the knowledge after the image of Him who created me. Colossians 3:9-10

We say: I'm not worth anything; no one cares about me and no one ever will.
The Words Says: I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139 (read the entire chapter.)
I am God's workmanship, created in Christ unto good works. Ephesians 2:10

These are just a few examples of the negative things we tell ourselves about ourselves and our environment. However, we can correct faulty thinking by challenging the way in which we view ourselves. Again, change is inevitable and all around us, but you can begin by making positive change within yourself by examining the way in which you think about your situations.

So in mid January, Alan and I decided that we weren't going to exchange gifts this year for Valentine's Day. Personally, V-Day isn't a big deal to me because my birthday is February 18 and I'd rather spend all my energy on that day. lol <---I know, kinda selfish, but HEY, IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!

Anywho, I go over to Alan's house on 2/13 to watch a movie and, of course, he breaks our agreement and has a dozen roses and a card for me. AND even got roses for my Mama. Talk about cool points! I then remind him of our agreement and his smart tail replies, "Well, technically, I didn't get it for you for Valentine's Day because it's the day before." :-)

2/14 was a great day. Alan and I went to Vito's, which is a small Italian restuarant in mid-town. They have great pizza (and I could eat pizza twice a week) and gelato. Following our meal, we went to the Third Degree Glass Factory where they had glass blowing demonstrations and we were given the opportunity to test our own creative skills. We were able to decorate a glass heart-shaped tile with glass beads and such. Alan is supposed to pick it up this week so I'll let you know how it turned out.

The rest of the evening was great. We just had an opportunity to just really reflect on the blessings we have in each other.

Good job, Alan.

Christmas 2008 was interesting, full of highs and lows.

People that are close to me know that my relationship with my dad's family is not the best. I love and respect them, but they're not the first people I go to when I need a hug if you catch my drift. Anywho, my cousin, who used to be like a little brother to me when we were growing up, gave me a note with a name, phone number, and address written on it. He said that this young man has been trying to get in touch with my sis and I and has visited our father's parents because we share the same father.

So here I am, with a name and a number, with so many things going through my head. I mean, how do you even start off the conversation?

Hi, my name is De-Andrea and, well, I heard that we have the same father....

I'm so full of various emotions right now, it's hard to concentrate on just one.

Is there a book written on how to meet siblings while in your late 20's? If not, then I need to write it so that I can pay off Sallie Mae!

I'm pretty excited for Thursday to get here. Yes, through a lot of things that have happened since last Turkey Day, I'm still blessed and thankful. :-) Also, I'm excited for the food that I will receive for the nourishment of my body for Christ's sake...Amen! lol What are you excited to eat on Thanksgiving?

Here's my list:

my mom's turkey and dressing...and carrot cake, greens, sweet potatoes

my aunt De-Rance's macaronni and cheese and green beans