Roots

Root is an extremely important word for me today. Throughout the past two years I have been reflecting on my life and writing about it, in an attempt to get to the ROOT of my problems.

Noun: The basic cause, source, or origin of something
Verb: Establish deeply and firmly (be rooted)

As of January 7, 2015, the day that I first attained sobriety (though relapses occurred), and the day that my wholehearted search for God began bearing fruit, I’ve spent a lot of time becoming deeply rooted in Him and His Word. And as of March 7, 2016; the day that is now my sobriety date, I’ve worked at being well rooted in my recovery program.

Gil always reminds me that we have seasons in our lives. I do see that, and I believe that after many, MANY months of reading not only God’s Word, but some great books by C.S. Lewis, Max Lucado, Philip Yancey, and even A.W. Tozer; my roots—although baby roots—have taken hold. I also believe that in starting this blog, a new season came upon me, which I guess was the outpouring of my story. Prior to that, you’d most likely find me in the recliner chair with a book in hand, at a recovery meeting, or at church functions (a far cry from my barhopping days!).

The thing that I need to be careful of is that I remember that blogging is a part of the mix, not a replacement for those crucial and lifesaving activities. That’s what my focus in 2017 is going to be; maintaining a healthy balance.

I saw a post on Facebook last night, and it was a GREAT reminder:

Joining AA is like joining the Mafia. Anywhere you go in the world, you have family. But… if you leave… you die.

The same can be said about following Jesus. I have family everywhere! But I need to stay rooted. I need to remain in the Vine, or I will wither and die. I guess that’s my way of saying I’m going to work a little harder on surrender, and maybe a tad less on blogging—or somehow incorporate the activities.

I do have more of the story to share—about discovering the ROOT of my problems—and I’ll be doing that soon. I just wanted to pause today and just BE. I’ll be making some sort of table of contents, too. My story seems to be lost amidst the many posts and photographs—and for anyone who can learn from it—I’d like them to be able to find the darn thing!

Until later- Peace and Love.
—Janet