Seeking the Sparkle

     Everyone has a sparkle. It ranges from a glimmer to a glow. The same person can radiate from one end of the spectrum to the other. If you feel dull or down, you can get your sparkle back! When your rings are dirty you inspect, soak, clean and polish. With a little effort you can get the luster back in your life!

In December I was sick with covid for two weeks and I feel like I’m still recovering. I wonder how long I will continue to feel dummed  down. I know I’m not the only one to get sick physically, then feel emotionally and spiritually drained. So, let’s work together to investigate some ways to get your sparkle back.

     1.) Consider: In this journey there will be zigs and zags, loop de loops or ups and downs. Don’t stay in the doldrums by harboring negative thoughts and feelings that can change easily. Consider that what you’re going through now will soon be in the past. The sparkleless perspective won’t always be there. Take chips and chunks off the veneer that hides your sparkle so you can see it. You won’t always feel down or discouraged. As Annie said, “The sun will come out tomorrow.” 

     2.) Care for Yourself: This is not a selfish attitude. Be there for yourself or you won’t be there for others. We raised our grandson for five years and I want to be there for as long as he needs me, which is always! Part of caring for yourself is exercising, journaling, and putting one foot in front of the other. As you proceed you’ll be amazed at where you’ll go and how you’ll glow.

     3.) Connections: These are limited now by covid, so proceed wisely, with masks and social distancing. If you need to go virtual for now download Zoom and go for it! Keep those connections going. Talk to someone who can help you sort through your issues, especially if you’re depressed or overwhelmed. Some therapists say a woman needs three close friends, but a man only one. Why the difference? Women typically share more so they need more connections. Men are usually more reserved about their feelings and so they require fewer interactions.

    I had coffee and conversation with a dear friend recently and I experienced a glimmer of sparkle breaking through. It’s always fabulous to spend time with people who care about you and see your sparkle shimmering through. If you can’t meet in person, start with a text message, short phone call or letter.

     Other connections are with God and people. It is fitting that God calls you to a life of service to others. Isaiah 58:8 explains what happens after you serve, “Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear.” This is healing emotionally, physically, and spiritually. You will not just shine, you will sparkle. 

     4.) Choose: Decide to focus on the positive and not the negative. When people asked me how I was doing after Covid, instead of saying it wiped me out, I decided to make a more hopeful comment. I would say it was challenging but I’m leaning on the everlasting arms, God is my  refuge and strength. Many will be drawn to the inspiring sparkle when you radiate the positive in your life.

     Nothing is as beautiful as snow and ice crystals on a frosty morning shining across the landscape. Go sparkle across your landscape. I think I saw something shining on the horizon. Get your sunglasses on, the Sparkle is coming!

Love, Debbie