Different Seasons

          

         Another great meeting with an amazing set of ladies. We really were able to open up and share personal examples of times we've experienced the topic discussed. These meetings were created to allow young women to feel comfortable and be transparent about ANYTHING, but they're also a great way to let loose after a busy week, laugh and enjoy each other's company and that is exactly what we did! Starting off with reading Ecclesiastes 3:1-11. We discussed the different spiritual seasons. The girls then participated in a critical thinking activity. They were given 4 real life scenarios to read. After reading each scenario, it was the group's responsibility to discuss what season they thought the person was in for that particular scenario, a few things that helped them know it was really that particular season and what are some things they would do if they were in that season.

         Just like each season varies depending on where we are geographically, There are spiritual seasons that we need to recognize as we continue to mature in Christ. They are not particularly named but they can be compared to natural seasons. Spiritual seasons vary on where we are spiritually. And no just because it is Summer in New England, does NOT mean you are in Summer spiritually! Each season God puts us in is preparation for the next in which we will have a unique role or purpose.

Description of Spiritual Seasons

Winter: A time of brokenness where you feel God has forgotten about you or isn't hearing your prayers. However, it should be the time where you decide to cling closer to and REST in Him more than you ever have. Its probably one of the most uncomfortable seasons for a Christian. Where we feel nothing is going right. 

        Example: Not finding a job, not getting into a desired school, losing friendships, a general stop on all opportunities.

Spring: Newness of life!! Spring time may mean planting new opportunities and new activities. Maybe a new way to do devotions or a new ministry God wants to put you in, new relationships or new ways to serve God. Whatever it may be,follow Gods lead on everything and be obedient.

        Example: Getting engaged, joining a new church, starting a new ministry, new friendships.

Summer:  A time of spiritual development to nurture the gifts God has given to you. It’s a time for prayer (more than usual) over the seeds or projects you’ve started in your previous season. They become fully grown and everything seems "peachy" but this is the season to cling on to God and stay connected to Him because if not careful, we forget where we came from. We forget what God has done for us and become spiritually arrogant because we think that we "made" it on our own when in reality it's God's grace and favor that got us there. Always make sure to keep your relationship with God in check!

        Example: Making sure you're nurturing the new relationships you've started, 
       continuing to put forth effort in that new idea God placed on your heart, doing 
       the right thing at work even though you may dislike your job and want to leave.

Fall: A time of transition and reflection, things start to slow down. You find yourself maybe reevaluating your values and priorities. You start to go back to the basics of faith.

        Example: Realizing certain traits you need to work on personally,cutting back on certain unnecessary friendships, mending relationships, change in taste buds (music, tv shows, environment).

Keep in mind that it is possible to be in different seasons in different aspects of your life. You may be in financial Winter, but Spring when it comes to relationships, etc. Its important for us to recognize which season we are in, in order to hear God's exact instruction for our life. God always gives us instructions but each one has its time, no season is ever permanent. Our task as women of God is to remain content in whatever the situation may be and keep our focus on our relationship with Him more than anything else.

So, there are basically two somewhat neutral seasons, one really awesome and one really uncomfortable. Here are a few things that might help you deal with whatever season you may currently be in.

•       SEEK HIM. Spend more time with God than usual.
•   Pray for clarity and wisdom and not what you "want" or "need".
•     Transparency, be COMPLETELY open with God about how you feel during this time.
•  Use prayer as a conversation with God. Bring your cares and worries to 
•     Him before complaining to anyone else.
•  Wait on Him,don't try to "fix" your life or situation on your own. God always wins.
•   Memorize and recite scripture that pertains to your current situation. (2 Timothy 3:16)
•    Lastly, always remember that you are a beloved child of God and He wants the best for you in His time. (Galatians 6:9)

A Love Letter to the Ladies of S.A.V.E.D.

 Hey ladies!

        I just wanted to let you know you are loved very dearly! I know we're all worried about the stress of bills, school, work, for some children or whatever the case may be but I just wanted to remind you all to be encouraged in whatever season you may be in ( Different Seasons also happens to be our June topic, dont miss out!). Regardless of all our busy schedules, let us not forget to spend that crucial time with the One who matters most, Jesus Christ. You may be going through a really tough situation at the moment...or maybe not but either way, nothing beats that special quiet time with our creator. It personally gives me a sense of peace in the midst of my what seems like unsolvable problems. " For a man is a slave to whatever has mastered him" - 2 Peter 2:19, are you letting your troubles take control of you or are you leaving them at the foot of the cross of the One who is sovereign and capable of the impossible and unthinkable? Leave it all to Jesus, He love you more than anything and anyone. He has great plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11), if you just surrender it all to Him, with your whole heart.

         So take that couple of hours, or even full day to just read a little in your bible, or pray and let Him speak to you or even put some music on and worship. Dont ever let anyone or any situation make you think you are incapable of or unworthy to spend time with God. Be encouraged, have a great rest of your week and month. Love you sisters!!

With love,

B.

May 31st, 2013 - Women's Health

   

             Tonight, like always, we had a great group of women! Because the topic was Women's Health, we touched upon the top 5 Women's Health issues and also discussed different check-ups needed after reaching a certain age. The 6 women were split up into 3 pairs and each given a health issue to learn about, discuss and find the best way to present to the larger group. The beauty of this group work was that they were put into a pair with someone they either didn't know too well or at all. It gave them a chance to get more familiar with group members, actively learn about the topic and have enough courage to present important information to others. Each pair was given a poster board, markers and crayons and their task was to find the best and most creative way to present their topic in a billboard or ad format. The girls had a great time discussing ideas on what to draw, write and act out. After everyone completed their presentations to the larger group, our great friend Nana Erzuah with a Bachelor's degree in Public Health, gave us some vital information on what kinds of different check-ups we should start having as we get older. You can find all the information about the topics presented and what Nana spoke about below. Its time for us to get educated and take good care of our bodies ladies!

Heart Disease

-          Heart disease is responsible for 29% of deaths in women and can also be a concern for women UNDER the age of 65.Although more men die of heart disease than women, women are under diagnosed and discover the condition after it is too late to do anything about it.

             Symptoms: shortness of breath, excessive sweating, lightheaded or dizziness, unusual fatigue, neck, shoulder, upper back or abdominal discomfort.

-          Risk Factors: Heredity (Including race, African-Americans and Hispanics are at higher risk),high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity ( most common), smoking, mental stress and depression, low levels of estrogen after menopause.

-          Reduce the risk: make sure diet is low in saturated fat, oil and cholesterol, exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, maintain a healthy weight, quit or don’t start smoking.

   

     

-         Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in women. It mainly occurs after menopause however there are instances in young women.

-          Symptoms: Lump in breast or underarm after menstruation, swelling in the armpit, pain or tenderness in breast, flattening, indentation in breasts, change in size or temperature of breasts, unusual discharge from nipple.

-          Risk Factors: Obesity, too much alcohol, family/personal history, race(white women are at a higher risk), early onset of menstruation(before age 12), earlier chest radiation, genes (5-10% of cases are linked to abnormal gene mutations), high intake of red meat.

-          Reduce the risks: exercise, eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans, eat less red and/or processed meat and drink less sugary drinks, reduce drinking of alcoholic beverages limit to about 1 standard drink per day.

Osteoperosis

Osteoporosis, a condition of weak bones that break easily affects 44 million Americans and 68% are women. WOW!

-          Symptoms: easily occurring bone fracture (spine, wrist or hip), back pain, loss of height over time, stooped posture.

-          Risk Factors: small frame, family history, anorexia or bulimia, diet low in Calcium and Vitamin D, excessive alcohol, smoking, inactive lifestyle, race (white and Asian women have the highest risk),infrequent menstrual cycles, medication use.

-          Reduce the risks: weight bearing exercise ( walking,jogging,etc), eat foods rich in calcium and Vitamin D (milk, yogurt, cheese, fish) and dark green vegetables, limit alcoholic beverages.

Autoimmune Diseases

There are more than 80 known types of autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders where the immune system attacks the body and destroys or alters tissues. 75% of autoimmune diseases occur in women. Since there are so many of them, it is impossible to pinpoint the exacts symptoms and prevention methods for each disease.

-          Risk Factors: Women of childbearing age,family history, ethnic background, environmental factors

-          Different Examples: Lupus, Diabetes I, Celiac Disease, Graves’ disease, inflammatory bowel disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Psoriasis.

Depression

There isn't an exact cause for depression but there are many factors involved including hormones and inherited traits.

Symptoms: sleep disturbance, appetite and weight change, lack of energy, difficulty concentrating, loss of interest in usual activities, feelings of guilt, hopelessness and worthlessness, suicidal thoughts.

Risk Factors: family history, experience stressful life events, having a serious illness, abuse of alcohol or drugs, certain high blood pressure medicines, body image issues, low self-esteem, being overly dependent, traumatic experience as a child.

Reduce the risks: aim for 8 hours of sleep, open up to at least one trusted person, practice relaxation techniques, a little sunlight exposure each day, stay active, try to maintain social activities even if not in the mood.

ANNUAL WOMEN CHECK-UPS

Pap Smear - is a check for cervical cancer or any other changes in your cervix that could lead to serious health issues. 

Mammogram (x-ray of the breast) - is a screening that helps detect breast cancer. Though it is not recommended to go without a mammogram, you could do a self breast examination. Check out the steps for a self breast examination here: http://www.genesishealth.com/services/cancer/treat/breast/exam/

STI Testing - is testing for sexually transmitted infections. There are many different STI's and tests for each one. Your doctor will be best at advising which one to take based on your history of sexual activity. 

TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY, STAY HEALTHY AND GET CHECKED OFTEN!