We're Only Human

I am struggling with my blog because I am concerned about offending people.  I can't decide if this is wisdom telling me to be careful or fear playing it's nasty little game.  So at the risk of offending my friends and family, here goes.

I struggle with letting other's words define me.  At least for a period of time.  Often I appreciate advice.  But then there is a point where either that person hasn't earned a right to speak into my life so personally or another personal boundary is being crossed. Then that advice that was meant in love turns into something different.

More often it feels as if I'm being judged.  Usually by friends and family.  Most of whom are Christians. That's kind of backwards isn't it?  We are supposed to love each other.  We are supposed to be united.  Yet so often I see relationships fail when judgements are made, conclusions are jumped to and love is forgotten.  

It's really easy for me to look into someone else's life and know what their issues are and how to fix them.  The next step is to share my wisdom in the name of love.  I'm pretty good at this. 

While there is a time and place to speak wisdom into the lives' of others, more often than not, I believe I am supposed to close my mouth and keep my judgements to myself.  What do I really know anyways?  

This can be so damn hard!  

This subject is on my heart lately because so often I feel looked down on and judged for the choices I have made for me and my family.  The fact is: What works for me might not work for someone else and that's okay.  

For me, step-parenting is the toughest and most emotionally- charged thing I have ever set out to do. 

For me, sometimes a beer or mixed drink replaces my dinner.

For me, my house in the woods is perfect because it pushes me to be better every day.

For me, church is not my religion and sometimes I enjoy staying home with my family.

For me, money is a struggle to talk about, to live with, and to live without. 

For me, anger is a learned coping mechanism and a daily battle.

For me, my blog is how I try to find my voice.

For me, faith is often difficult.

This post is part of a series called Risk Rejection where a group of bloggers are linking up and sharing their own Risk Rejection adventures.  Mine is simple.  This blog.  I am still nervous when I see notifications for new comments.  I spend a lot of time worrying and over-thinking what I want to write about and publish. However I am enjoying my new bloggy space and it's been an amazing outlet this past month.  I'm looking forward to the future of 5 Hearts, One Family.