Hope is Powerful

I spent most of my adult life as a caregiver and I complained a lot at the beginning of the journey. I complained then, yet now, I thank God for the positive outcomes and who I have become as a result of the caregiving. I never imagined how hard it would be, yet how rewarding it is. Looking at it from this other side, I know you are probably right in the midst of it and it could be hard to focus on the positive.  Someone has said that hindsight is 2020 and, in my situation, as being a caregiver, that is truly accurate because I can see so many positive outcomes from the opportunities that I had and the choices that I made to care for loved ones. The first one is I became the hope lady and wrote a book about it. If you allow God to enter your circumstance, no experience is ever wasted. When you learn from it, it will take you to a new level. So much of my testimony revolves around the initial experience of moving in with my little feisty mother in love. It was not an easy time, yet I would not be the person I am today without those stories to tell and the common experiences that I can have with you. Another very positive outcome is that I learned to honor fully and will receive the benefits of honoring for the remainder of my life.  What are some active things you can do? Here's what I suggest. Make a list of your benefits of caregiving. I love to mind map. That's where you put a circle in the middle and spokes out. And this is the basis for how I gain the content to start writing, because it allows me to capture my thoughts as they're occurring, and it helps me to get them all down without organizing them without stopping.Rewrite the end of your own story. Make the decision today to change the end of your life script. No matter what has been done to you today, you can take control of the rest of your decisions. Choose to give to yourself freely, yet establish boundaries. Forgive and let go of past hurts. Take care of yourself. When rested and balanced you bring about a positive outcome for those you care for. Make a list of the benefits, rewrite the end of your own story and take care of yourself. Zoom on into those possibilities. And here's another part. It may seem like it right now, but this will not last forever. Prayer:Thank you Lord, that I have been taught the true meaning of honor and I ask you, Lord, that this message will resonate with my listeners. Thank you Lord, that you provide a special blessing when I honor those I care for and I'm looking forward to the blessing of a really long life and the favor that comes along with it. I also choose to forgive freely and move forward with confidence in your goodness and the plan you have for me and everyone in my family. Stand tall and honor fully, because that's what you're looking for. I ask this in Jesus name. Amen.  Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

So let God work His will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and He’ll be there in no time. James 4:7 MSGEvery single person I know wants to make a difference in the lives of others by doing something special and unique. Within you are seeds of a dream to do what only you can do. It is the legacy that you will leave behind. Unfortunately, I had gotten so busy with my job and caregiving responsibilities that I did not make room for my gifts of writing, speaking and music. God was closing doors so He could open others.Define your giftThe first step in finding your gift is to define it. A great way to start is to ask yourself, “What would you do if you had unlimited resources (time, money and education)? Your mind is free to explore once you remove the self-imposed limitations that often lead you to talk yourself out of what you would love to do. You can always make time – even if it’s just a few minutesFollow what you love to doYour gift will be centered around the things you like to do. Have you always had an inclination and innate ability to do certain things? Often you don’t recognize your gifting because you think that everyone has the same capabilities you do and it’s easy for you. It is the unique pattern and combination of talents and attributes that makes your gift rare and precious.  There may be others who do the same thing you do, yet you add a flair that distinguishes your gift from others.Share your giftYour gift brings you joy, especially when shared with others. There is no better feeling than to do what you were created to do. It does not seem like work because it is a pleasure. There will be those areas where you will need to grow to support that gift. In fact, you might feel most disqualified in the area where you would like to go. For example, I have always loved to sing and play worship songs. I can get lost in time as I sit down at the piano. I struggle with recording these and sharing with others. It’s my goal to move in that direction because others have told me these songs are a blessing to them.Grow in your giftYour gift will open doors and make room for you. Once you define your gift, look for ways to use it and improve your skills in that area. Even if it seems far-fetched right now, take steps in the right direction. This is where you can really get out of your Comfort Zone (or CZ as I like to call it). Volunteer to do something that you don’t feel quite sure about doing but have always wanted to do. You’ll figure it out and can have a lot of fun. Your gifts expand as you use them.PrayerLord, I am so thankful for the gifts You have given each of us. I pray that You will grant us the courage to take a good look at them so we can expand and grow in these areas.  With Your help we will step outside of our ‘comfort zone’ and take some risks. Thank You for those around us that encourage us to ‘go for our dreams.’ In Jesus’ name. Amen.Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong. Proverbs 30 :17. ESV  In the verse I chose to add to this series is a fascinating one from the well known Proverbs 31 woman. When it says she dresses herself with strength, that means that she rolls up her sleeves and approaches her responsibilities with force. She's going after it. She's secure in who she is. But the Hebrew word there also means praise. Put praise music on every morning as you start your day. Raise your arms in praise, making your arms strong. Put on the strength that you will need for that day. She makes her arms strong. That means to me that she does her part to increase her stamina every day. She is alert mentally and physically and has the courage to face whatever lies ahead because she trusts in God's good plan for everyone in her life. Hope says that I have the courage to face today with energy and strength. That is so important. Start today. Stop putting it off. Research suggests that everyday physical activity like walking and gardening are a great place to start. Even household chores, if you do them rapidly enough, such as sweeping or vacuuming can get your muscles going. Increase your physical activity by using your own muscle power. Start small. Do frequent short exercises instead of those that require large blocks of time and find activities that you enjoy. One other thing you can do while brushing your teeth is stand on one leg. Go for at least 10 seconds each time. Stay consistent. It's okay if you miss a day or two, if you have an emergency. Obviously that will happen. But just get back into the routine. It can be as simple as if you have your loved one in the hospital. Park as far away as you can so you can walk and get the steps in. Set reminders on your phone to take posture breaks or hold yourself accountable with a friend. Walking is such a great way to get the exercise that you need because it's easy, it's available, it's free, and besides its physical benefits, walking helps to reduce stress. What other exercises would you recommend? Prayer:Thank you Lord, that you have given me the ability to choose to do something for myself. And I pray for my fellow caregivers that they do not feel that this is selfish, but instead they know that you have given them the gift of health. Let them maintain it. I ask for wisdom so they'll know when to take a break, when to incorporate it, when to do it.  Thank You, Lord, that you give them hope. They have the courage and mental and physical strength to rise above what might seem overwhelming right now. I ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

A cheerful look brings joy to the heart. Proverbs 15:30 NLTOne of the hardest things about my first husband’s illness (FSHD – Facioscapularhumeral dystrophy) was that it affected the muscles of his face making it hard for him to smile. The other day, as I was looking at some old pictures I started to smile because it brought back memories of when I first met Bill. We were both in the same Greek class at L.I.F.E. Bible College (Now Life Pacific College). I remember two things – his smile and the little drawings on gum wrappers. I have long since lost the works of art on the gum wrappers yet will always remember his smile.During the last two years of his life Bill had to use a mask for the ventilator that did the breathing for him because his diaphragm had failed. That was when he relied on his little white board and marker to express how he felt. Emoji’s were a blessing because they were able to express his smiles even though he physically could no longer smile. One of the greatest lessons Bill taught me was gratitude for the choices I have. Most people do not realize how powerful those choices are until they are around someone who can no longer make them. His mouth may not have been able to form a smile but his eyes expressed so much.Active Self NurtureUse your smile musclesThe choice to lift the sides of your mouth can actually make you feel better. Researchers believe that activating a specific set of muscles in the face connects you to greater happiness and joy. When you choose to smile, you signal the emotional centers of your brain that all is well. Here’s where hope comes in. This scripture says that the cheerful look brings joy. When you trust God’s good plans for your life you can smile and mean it.Keep your thoughts focused on the positive sideIt’s not enough to simply paste on a fake smile. When you are feeling discouraged, start thinking about all the things that bring you joy. Gratitude produces genuine smiles. As a caregiver, you no doubt experience a great deal of stress. It can be easy to start focusing on all that you do not control. Instead, release the burdens to the Lord and find what brings you joy.Live longerResearch has shown that those who smile actually live longer than those who do not smile. This was fun research with a baseball team in a yearbook. Those with big smiles lived 7 (seven) years longer than those who did not.Improve your moodDid you know that putting chop sticks in your mouth to resemble a smile will help you to be in a better mood? This experiment was done with some unhappy folks who actually ended up being in a better mood. Try it and let us know how it works when you are having a bad day.PrayerThank You, Lord, for all Your blessings and for providing all that I need just when I need it the most. At times, the burden of caregiving seems too great and it can be hard to smile. It is right there that I choose to look up and smile. I know you will take care of the rest.In Jesus’ name. Amen.Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

What You’re after is truth from the inside out. Psalm 51:6 MSGIn this podcast, The Hope Lady remembers a difficult time in one of her care-giving assignments. She learned a lot about releasing unforgiveness and anger in order to fully honor the one she was caring for - in this case, her mother-in-love.Our memories are flexible and who better than the Holy Spirit to reshape painful events and to bring us peace right where we need it the most.Active Self NurtureFace what you are feelingDo not be afraid to express exactly what you’re feeling. Your Heavenly Father already knows, so why try to hide it? Admit your fear or your anger. Own the feelings instead of trying to pretend that everything is okay.Ask the Lord for His perspectiveOnce we honestly face what we are feeling we can open our hearts to the true perspective the Lord can bring. It’s amazing to me how different a situation becomes when we see it from an eternal Godly perspective.PrayerThank You, Lord, for giving me emotions that can let me know when something is wrong. With your help, I will take the time to process what is truly going on. I release all anger to You and ask for Your perspective in the difficult situations that I face as I care for __________________.In Jesus’ name. Amen.Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Those who humbly serve will see and rejoice! All you seekers-after-God will revive your souls! Psalm 69:32 VoiceThere is no exhaustion quite like the one you may feel as a caregiver. It feels like it will never end and you don’t know how you keep going – yet, you do. Technology has provided us a way to connect and keep people informed of prayer needs. There is a great deal of support from friends who can reach out to us with encouragement. On the other hand, there is a great danger of becoming addicted to Social Media. One of the greatest respites you can find is to completely unplug from technology for 24 hours.Social Media AddictionHere are some questions to ask yourself to see if you are addicted to social media. They are followed by alternative Hope Antidote that serves as an active form of self nurture.1. Do you check Social Media accounts first before doing anything else every morning?Hope Antidote: Stretch physically in bed before getting up. Pray and ask the Lord for strength and wisdom during the day. Jot down notes recording your dreams or first impressions of the day.2. Is reaching for Social Media your main recreation or distraction throughout the day/evening?Hope Antidote: Make a list of physical actions you can take that will get you moving and involved with people. Act on at least one of them every day.3. Do you choose online time instead of actual face time with family and immediate friends?Hope Antidote: Placing your phone in a basket and passing the basket around. Put phones on airplane mode and put them in the middle of the table. 4. Do you feel anxious when you think about not checking your social media outlets for 24 hours?Hope Antidote: Turn off the notifications. Schedule specific times to check your accounts. Find someone to help you remain accountable.PrayerThank You, Lord, for giving me a heart of immediate responsive obedience. I want that so much. Forgive me for letting the distractions of Social Media dull me to the nudges of Your Holy Spirit to reach out to someone in need or share an encouraging word. Thank You for energizing me from deep within. It is such a comfort to know that You give me the desire and the ability to complete all that will bring You pleasure.In Jesus’ name. Amen.Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Jesus said, Let’s go to the a quiet place and rest awhile. Mark 6:31 NLTCaregiving burnout is very real because you can easily neglect yourself while caring for others. It is imperative that you secure your life vest and wear it all the time.Take care of yourselfWhy is this so hard to do? It starts with a good premise of taking care of the crisis and being the one who is there when needed. Unfortunately, this can become a pattern that is perpetuated where that becomes what brings you value. You easily take on the role of a martyr and neglect your own health. (See this article: Monitor Your Health)Hope Tip: Do something little for yourself EVERY day.Learn to power napMoms say it best don’t they? She would say every afternoon, “I have a 101 things to do now and one of them is the nap. See you in half an hour.” You can learn to relax enough so that you will be able to take a 20 minute nap every day. This is a discipline that is practiced by some of the most effective people on the planet. It does not mean you are lazy. On the contrary, this short amount of sleep, when done properly can revive creativity and allow you to function at top capacity. The best time to power nap is either mid afternoon after lunch or just before dawn. During these times you experience a natural dip in alertness due to your circadian rhythm, making it the most ideal time to power nap. Set your alarm for 20 minutes; relax fully; change your focus to inner peace; get up immediately when your alarm goes off. For more on this vital topic click here.Hope Tip: Set aside 20 minutes every day for a power nap whether you sleep or not.Make time for prayer and meditationJesus told his disciples after a busy day of dealing with demanding people that they needed to get away and rest awhile. Follow His example on this. Jesus was actually taking a power nap when they were in the middle of a big storm. Make your car a prayer closet as you drive today. Find rest in the Lord.Hope Tip: Find the best time for you to quiet your heart and enjoy the presence of the Lord.PrayerThank You, Lord, for being the perfect example. Today I want to thank You that I can rest in you and trust You with every detail of __________’s care. I ask for wisdom and the ability to relax enough to nap regardless of the storms raging all around me. You can speak peace to my heart and I receive it right now as I sit here.In Jesus’ name. Amen.Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

S-Stay ConnectedIf one person suffers, all suffer together; if one person is honored, all rejoice together. 1 Corinthians 12:26 ESVActive Self NurtureReconnect with friendsWho are your forever friends? Make a list of those who you would love to speak with or sit down with your favorite cuppa coffee/tea. Pick up the phone or send a message over social media to these friends. They will be delighted to see you and you will be refreshed after your time with them.Make a list of people with whom you would be comfortable leaving your loved one (if you are at that stage). Let them come over to test it out and to show them what they need to do while you are away. This is especially important if your loved one has advanced dementia or Alzheimer’s.Receive positive inputDelete all social media that is negative or inflammatory. Surround yourself with optimistic messages that edify rather than those that tear down. The admonition of Philippians 4:8 is as follows:Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.True - what you know to be the truth - related to your values and your life. They may seem hidden to some but revealed in your life. Are you willing to be patient with your judgment until all the details are revealed?Noble - Reverential awe - worthy of worship - in alignment with your faith that God will work all for your good - belief in hope. Do you maintain a hopeful heart believing that God can work out all the details? Just - to do the right thing even when no one is watching you. Your own responsibility to the world to do the right thing and serve God. Do you do what is right when no one is watching?Pure - what is right about others. Are you willing to look deeper into what could be another’s motive rather than judging harshly?Lovely - Emitting light - Smiling to bring about a response from someone who is in a dark place.Do you believe that everyone has the capacity to shine brightly with hope no matter how dark the situation becomes?Good report - Excellence - what you do extremely well.Are you able to see what others do well in order to highlight and call it forward?Virtue - Tell stories of the good things that others have done. This is what we do in a eulogy at a funeral. What stories can you tell about the amazing qualities of others?Recommit to time for yourselfIt is not selfish to want to honor your personal needs for refreshing and rest. Work toward shared responsibilities and time when you can collect your thoughts and sense the presence of the Lord. It is vital that your well be full before you give out to others.PrayerThank You, Lord, for the times of refreshing that you have for me right now in this caregiving journey. I ask you give me peace as I leave __________ for times to reconnect with friends. Thank You for those who are coming alongside to suffer as we suffer and rejoice as we honor those we love. In Jesus’ name.  Amen.Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

This is the second part of the podcast called Good Mourning - Joy does come in the Mourning.Heather is the host of Creating You Podcast. As a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor she has a lot of powerful insights into the process of grieving a loss.Takeaways:It's important to be willing to do a paradigm shift to check in on what you're believing or feeling. Here are some questions to ask:Why can't I feel anything?Where did the messaging come to me?Where is that feeling coming from?Is what you're feeling right now serving you?Do you want it to be different?What do I have to put into place in order to grieve openly?Shift from I'm so sorry this happened to I'm grateful for all the experiences I've had and that I can come out on the other side complete, whole and better than if it had never happened.Give yourself permission to feel all you are experiencing. Say yes to yourself.Step out of your comfort zone and do the next thing.Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Welcome to Season 2!Hope is Powerful podcast's second season starts with a delightful conversation with Heather from the Creating You podcast. She is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a dear friend. Once you listen, you will understand why I love talking to her. We all are grieving something. This podcast encourages you to embrace your pain and lean fully into your feelings in order to "mourn well."Remember:You can learn to ride grief waves to comfort. When you get hit with a wave of grief instead of fighting it, lean into it, catch the wave and let it take you all the way to comfort.Sadness and happiness are held in tension so you can have both at the same time.Mourn as long as you need to.The sixth stage of grieving is creating meaning around their life not just their death.Stop apologizing for tears. Get permission up front that if I start crying it's okay. People respond out of their discomfort and want to fix it and wanting it go away."Feelings are not the enemy, they are the informants.Be sure you welcome a range of emotions. Feelings are an open house.Be flexible with that."  HeatherJoin Heather's Facebook community called Best Days Ahead.Follow her on Instagram.Creating You podcast on Apple and on Spotify. Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

In this podcast The Hope Lady returns to talk about a crucial part of caregiving - letting others help you.Stop hinting at your need for helpOne of the characteristics of a martyr in passive-aggressive communication. You tell people about your woes and then when they ask how they can help, you somehow want them to insist on helping. They take you at your word when you say, “I’m okay, but thanks for asking.” Then you become angry because no one is helping. STOP IT! Instead say, “I need your help.”Log your caregiving activitiesMake a list of everything you do in caring for your loved one. Sure, it seems simple to you because it’s your routine. You want to have it all on paper so that the next time someone asks how they can help instead of saying “Oh, I’m fine, but thank you for offering” you can say, “I’m so glad you asked. Could you please (specific request)?”Share honor opportunitiesOnce you realize the benefits of honoring others, you will want to share the privilege. I am so grateful that our children were able to help take care of their dad. They have expressed in the years since he moved to Heaven that they were grateful they did as much as they did. In trying to spare them, I could have circumvented the process.Are you going to let others help you?Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Do everything without complaining. Philippians 2:14 NLTHere is an excerpt from my book, The Power of Hope for Caregivers: Honor the Ride. The details of my late husband’s (Bill) last doctor’s appointment are indelibly engraved in my memory. It was a routine visit with the pulmonologist to check Bill’s oxygen levels. In our past appointments, this doctor had been pleased that Bill’s lungs were still strong even though his diaphragm no longer functioned. The full-time ventilator pushed the air in and out of his lungs via a c-Pap mask over his face.“Mr. Sebastian, I must insist that you get a tracheostomy,” the doctor said grimly. With no hesitation, Bill signed N – O, and then very deliberately grabbed his marker and wrote, “NO.” It was the size of the entire white board we had taken in so that he could communicate with the medical staff.“I respect that, Mr. Sebastian,” acknowledged the doctor. “I just want you to know that as your doctor it is my duty to let you know the risk you take by not having this procedure done.” “Wait just a minute, honey,” I said quickly. “Hear out what the doctor is telling us.”The doctor went on to explain that because of the lack of muscle tone in his face due to the type of Muscular Dystrophy and the continual flow of air through the mask it was more and more difficult for the oxygen levels to stay at optimum levels.I don’t remember much else about that doctor’s appointment. I felt angry and frustrated. The following week, Bill woke up on Heaven. He was healed and my caregiving role ended abruptly.I look back on that time in my life with regret for the missed opportunities to grow and praise God for what I had rather than bemoan the way my life had turned out. I was in a dark place because I had yet to grasp the truth that as a Hope Ambassador I could set the tone for my surroundings by my response to the challenges of my life.Active Self-CareEliminate absolutes like never and alwaysThere are many things that challenge us in the caregiving role. This admonition is not about denying the difficulties but rather looking for solutions. The challenge with focusing with absolutes is that they blow up the bridges to solutions leaving you entrenched in a victim mentality where you are less likely to reach a solution.Replace complaints with praiseWe live in a society that loves to grumble and complain. We now have a whole new platform on Social Media to identify with what we are against. We have those who will jump on the band wagon and agree with us in our objections and laments. The problem with this approach is that it leaves us angrier and more frustrated than ever. More importantly, we miss opportunities to bless and serve fully.Flip the situationOne of my favorite sayings is “On the positive side…” It’s great to acknowledge the challenge rather than to pretend that everything is fine when it is not. God has a good plan for you even though you may not see it right now. Ask for wisdom from others. It may seem like this season will never end but it always does.PrayerLord, I am just so tired right now. I need you to energize me with the desireSend a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Be fully prepared to hold your ground. Ephesians 6:13 VoiceWhat prepared you to be a caregiver?Most of us went into this experience with zero preparation. In fact, you were thrown into it - sometimes by default because no one else would pick up the task. And now you are here. What are you going to do about it?Many talk about the hardships of being a caregiver and need a place to vent. If that is where you find yourself, set a timer and go on your rant. What’s left at end of that monologue? Betrayal, anger and despair. As you numb yourself to the strong feelings it could be easy to check out and go through the motions.Instead, how about you get prepared to hold your ground. Stand firm where you are and learn to regain your power.What can you do differently?Prepare to take your power stanceThere is a definite connection between your posture and what is happening inside your brain.  Research is showing that holding the power posture stance for 2 minutes a day actually releases the assertiveness hormone (testosterone) and lowers the stress hormone (cortisol). Take this posture even when you don’t feel like it and soon your ‘feel-good’ hormones will catch up with the choice you have made.Pause Having done all … stand!!!! (King James Version)The prayerful pause is so powerful because it allows you to take your time and move in the right way without wounding those you love.Every time you feel yourself shrinking from the task at hand remember that you are in a war. Take your battle stance. You are a power warrior and the details are already taken care of so that in the end YOU win. This means that instead of groveling and feeling less than your potential, you say, “With the help of the Lord, we’ve got this one too.” This will take practice if you’ve been indulging in complaints .Pivot to victoryBecause of this, you must wear all the armor that God provides so you’re protected as you confront the slanderer, for you are destined for all things and will rise victorious. Eph 6:13 TPTIt’s time to stop reacting and start running to win the race. You can do this! Do you see yourself winning? The stance of someone who wins the race is very different from the one who is happy just to make it to the end. Pay closer attention to the way you sit, stand, sleep, and move throughout the day. Your body is all connected. When one thing is out of place, the entire body can be affected. When that one thing is your spine, then the body can be greatly affected. Considering that the spine and brain are connected, it’s easy to see why behavior and attitude are so greatly affected by posture.You are victorious. You are a winner. Throw your hands in the air and praise God before you cross the finish line. Lift up your head to your maker and creator and thank Him for how he has all the details taken care of. Move like a champion not a defeated victim. Prayer will accomplish this in you as you begin to take the territory that is rightfully yours.Little consistent changes, over time, can mean big improvements.PrayerThank You, Lord, for your help and presence when I feel that this caregiving situation is more than I can handle. I need Your help so that I’ll still be on my feet Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot extinguish it. John 1:5 VoiceA long caregiving season can feel like a very dark place. I know because I have felt that darkness surrounding me like a wet blanket and chilling my hope. At times it felt like the darkness would win. I felt like the light inside me was dimming more and more every day. At times, it felt like I didn’t even have a flashlight! The darker it becomes, the more obvious a small light is. What does that mean? It means that you only need a spark of hope to ignite a change in the darkness. It can start with the simple statement, “God is good.”Proclaim the wondrous acts of the One who called you out of inky darkness into shimmering light. 2 Peter 2:9 (Voice)You have been called from darkness to light. I love this translation because it describes the darkness and the light. You may feel today that you are no more than an ink spot in a dark place of despair and hopelessness. In fact, it may seem so dark that you can’t even see your hand when you put it in front of your face.God is calling you to step into a beautiful circle of light in His presence and glory. When you do, darkness flees. The light overwhelms the darkness. It has to disappear.What you can do differently?Go Outdoors Tune in to your senses. See the colors, textures, and shapes that appear naturally all around you. Smell the scents of your neighborhood’s flora and fauna. Feel the cool breeze or warm sunshine on your skin. Broaden your awareness of your surroundings, and expand the possibilities of your life. Expose your body to extreme temperaturesA cold shower and a sauna can help your body detox. Most of you avoid any feeling of discomfort. If you live in a hot place, sit in your car for 5 - 10 minutes with the AC turned off. You will begin to sweat and that is awesome because your body is detoxing. Jump into the cold shower immediately after this for more health benefits. Change your postureYour body language sends powerful signals to your brain.Bring light into your life immediately by standing in what I like to call the Wonder Woman (or Superman) pose. Bring your shoulders back with your chest out and place your hands on your hips. Holding this pose for two minutes will cause the shift in hormones needed to go into any situation feeling more confident. Focus on Hope RaysYou have more control over your happiness and hope level than you might think. In fact, the people with the most hope don’t leave their life satisfaction to chance, they do the work necessary to make their hope a priority. While there is no automatic switch that you can simply turn on, focusing your attention on positive thoughts and actions through prayer leads you to a new level of peace and meaning. PrayerThank You, Lord that Your light shines in the darkness. (John 1:5 V)That means that if I am currently experiencing a dark season I only need a tiny light to overwhelm that darkness. I pray for every person listening to this podcast who feels overcome by dark despair that they will begin to proclaim your goodness and faithfulness. (2 Peter 2:9 V) I am so grateful that You created my body to respond every time I adjust my posture to match what You think about me. I change my focus from the darkness to thSend a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure & lovely & dwell on the fine, good things in others. Think about all you can praise God for & be glad about. Philippians 4:8 TLBYou control your own attitude - so choose to be positive.Choose to look at difficulties through a hope lens.Embrace challenges so you grow & develop in key areas. Filter negative experiences through a lens of gratitude.What can you do differently?Hang out with positive peopleYou become like the people you are around.  Negativity multiplies as you get around others who reinforce negativity & martyrdom. Seek out encouragers. Ask them to hold you accountable.  Avoid negative conversationsChallenge yourself to avoid negative self-talk. Minimize negativity on challenging situations. A simple deep breath can be all that is needed to witness a negative thought dissipate.  Praise God for difficult situationsThe more you appreciate your life, the more you flourish & grow. Recognize negativity so you can inject more gratitude into your day.  Identify what you're thankful for & trigger growth. Make a glad listHow much positivity you experience is a direct result of how you choose to interpret the experiences in your life, so get real about your habits of thought. See challenges as opportunities. People with a positive outlook see obstacles as opportunities for growth and are able to experience empathetic joy for others’ good fortune. Journal prompts:What brings you joy right now? What provides a spark of excitement? What was the best part of your day? Focus on these things. Plan to do more of the same. PrayerI am thankful, Lord, that I have a choice today to focus my thought life on truth rather than lies. You provide me with a true perspective on all that is swirling around me as I care for the needs of others. I choose to think about all that is going right in this situation. I choose to capitalize on the good qualities I see in the difficult people in my life. (Philippians 4:8) Most of all, I choose to praise You & find joy and laughter every day.In Jesus’ name. Amen.A-Accept Your Role with HonorB-Bounce Back with HopeC-Celebrate EverythingD - Dance with AbandonE - Eat Right and Enjoy Every BiteF- Forgive FreelyG-Go OutsideH-Have a Good Cry When NeededI-Infuse Hope - Be a ThermostatJ-Journal to Capture Your ThoughtsK-Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Beloved friend, I pray that you are prospering (all is well) in every way and that you continually enjoy good health, just as your soul is prospering. 3 John 1:2 TPT“Nearly three quarters of family caregivers report not going to the doctor as often as they should and say they skip doctor appointments for themselves. 63% of caregivers report having poor eating habits than non-caregivers and 58% indicate worse exercise habits than before caregiving responsibilities. ( National Alliance for Caregiving and Evercare)What can you do differently?Keep your own health appointmentsIn the pressure of getting those you take care of to the doctor you might neglect your own health appointment because you think, “It can wait…” No, it cannot. Pick up that phone and make your appointment. Do it right now.Change your eating habitsDrink water instead of soft drinksMunch on a handful of nuts instead of that cookieIncrease vegetable consumption Cut out processed foodsAvoid all fast-food places Prepare healthy snacks ahead of timeIncrease movementAs you wake up every morning s-t-r-e-t-c-h! Set a small goal to monitor your steps each day. Get someone to help you for an hour a day so that you can walk. Take care of your own emotional needsThis verse also refers to your soul - that is your emotions. In this hamster wheel called care-giving you can often bury what you are feeling so deeply that you begin to feel nothing. Your emotional health comes first - and then your physical will follow.Develop a social network and reach out them consistentlyAsk for help when you need to.Self-care is NOT selfish. PrayerThank you, Father, that you care for my listeners even more than they may be caring for themselves. I pray that You give them wisdom to monitor their own well-being and to prioritize their decisions from that viewpoint. Give them deep, rest-filled sleep. Show them the window to take a small window of ‘alone’ time every day. Give their loved ones the grace to pull back on their own demands to allow the time for these precious ones to be refreshed. Most of all, may they feel your presence and good pleasure in all they do day in and day out.In Jesus nameAmenHere are more letters:A-Accept Your Role with HonorB-Bounce Back with HopeC-Celebrate EverythingD - Dance with AbandonE - Eat Right and Enjoy Every BiteF- Forgive FreelyG-Go OutsideH-Have a Good Cry When NeededI-Infuse Hope - Be a ThermostatJ-JournaSend a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Shownotes:We were filled with LAUGHTER, and we sang for JOY. And the other nations said, “What amazing things the Lord has done for them.” Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us! What JOY! Psalm 126:2In this podcast, Karen shares how she learned to choose laughter every day. You can shift your perspective no matter what is going on. Your choices will provide sustainable JOY.Laughter is the gift you give yourself and everyone around you. It comes as a result of a changed perspective and a strong decision to see the humor in every situation.Self-Care for CaregiversChoose to laughMake a decision to find humor in the messy mundane details. Replace sarcasm with laughter. As you laugh, share the story with others and the joy will spread.Assignment: Start making a list of the following – What was the funniest thing that happened this week? What brought you joy?Discover life’s funniest storiesGet input from your loved ones(s). Start a book of funny stories that will leave a legacy of laughter and joy. Keep it simple. Relive funny times & great trips. Remember embarrassing moments and highlights of high school, college and early years of marriage. Assignment: Ask lots of questions and get others to share their stories.  Keep the concept going with family memories so they can ask about them. Seek the humor in EVERY situationDecide to create an atmosphere where it is okay to have fun even in the midst of the trials. I encourage find humor.  It’s not easy to do and yet, you can improve your odds of coming through the caregiving journey with greater strength and a sharpened wit.Assignment: Make a commitment to seek the humor in everything. Learn to laugh at yourself, especially when reliving embarrassing moments. Practice sincere laughter every day. PrayerThank You, Lord, for giving us the gift of laughter. I thank You for allowing me to see the glimpses of humor in the mundane and everyday challenges that I face as I care for ______________. I lift my eyes from the problems and allow you to fill me with laughter. I choose to sing for joy as I look at all the blessings You have given us. I honor these difficult days as times to grow and will smile in the face of it all as I look to You – author and finisher of my faith (Hebrews 12:2). In Jesus’ name. AmenHere are more letters of the ABCs of Self-Care for Caregivers - so far:A-Accept Your Role with HonorB-Bounce Back with HopeC-Celebrate EverythingD - Dance with AbandonE - Eat Right and Enjoy Every BiteF- Forgive FreelyG-Go OutsideH-Have a Good Cry When NeededI-Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit – you choose. Proverbs 18:21 MSGI used to hate Mondays. I guess I was like most people I worked with, except that I complained about it a lot. It probably had a lot to do with the fact that I hated my job, my husband was ill, our oldest daughter was going crazy, I had been diagnosed with lupus AND my mother-in-love was living with us and I became a very reluctant caregiver (more about that on this podcast). If you are a caregiver you may feel overwhelmed right now.You may be caught in a negative downward spiral of complaints and negativity that is making matters worse. Your words are killing you – literally!Have you noticed that, instead of feeling better after a bitter complaint, you actually feel worse? This scripture confirms the reason for that. You get to choose your words. You get to choose your attitude. Active Self-CareEmbrace the power of your wordsYour words set the stage for your life. They establish the atmosphere and openness of those around you. There are many verses in the Bible that express how powerful your words are. The one used at the top of this post is one of the most powerful especially in the MESSAGE paraphrase. How exciting that you get to choose life-giving words rather than poisoning the atmosphere! Assignment: Identify the poison words that you are using and write them down. Instead of trying to stop yourself from saying them,  replace them with life-giving words.Flip your negative expressionsEliminate the word “hate” from your vocabulary. Other expressions to avoid are those that include the word “death” as in, “I died laughing” or “I thought I would die.” This is harder than you think because you have adopted these sayings and may not realize you are saying them.Assignment: Make a list of the negative expressions you are using and replace them with positive affirmations. Modify your self-talkAs I started the journey of examining my words, I became more aware of what I mumbled under my breath. Things like, “That was dumb” or “How stupid can you be” were frequent. Be your own best friend and say kind things to yourself. You don’t need anger for motivation.Assignment: Take note of your negative self-talk and replace the phrases with positive ones. PrayerLord, I ask You to take my weakness and make me strong in You. I choose today to recognize who You say I am. I am Your daughter/son and I will treat myself that way. I choose to speak life over every difficult situation and person in my life today. I am grateful that I can love what You are doing in and through me.In Jesus’ name. Amen.Here are more letters of the ABCs of Self-Care for Caregivers - so far:A-Accept Your Role with HonorB-Bounce Back with HopeC-Celebrate EverythingD - Dance with AbandonE - Eat Right and Enjoy EveSend a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Write down this vision. Write it clearly on tablets so that anyone who reads it may run. Habakkuk 2:2 VoiceI have always wanted to be a classic journaler (is that even a word?) In my ideal world, I sit down to a perfectly ordered home every evening and write in my best penmanship about the amazing day I have had in a beautiful, leather bound journal. During my caregiving days, I felt fortunate if I could write a few words on a post-it note. There were so many thoughts swirling through my head and things to do that I could not keep track of them all.Writing in a composition book solved this for me. Typically, these black and white composition books are a required item with the annual school supply list. I started using them after reading David Allen’s book, Getting Things Done (GTD). In this book he refers to productivity in a new way where you establish calm rather than living in chaos. In the midst of ‘caregiving chaos’ I craved calm yet didn’t need another item on my burgeoning to-do list. The most important take-away from this book was to capture my thoughts on paper so my mind could do what it does best – envision the future and create the vision for what only I can do.Active Self-CareSweep your mindThis is a concept that I love to do periodically. Sit in a quiet spot and write down everything that is claiming your attention and is your responsibility. At this point stay on task to get it all down on paper. Usually, what you put down on that paper are things that you neglected to do or you put off doing. I most likely create a mind-map first and then come back and put them in my to-do list.Capture thoughts in writingMost nights I struggled to get to sleep as the swirl of undone chores and ideas threatened to overwhelm me. There were nights when I tossed and turned and woke up with a headache. The worst part was the feeling that I had forgotten something. I put my composition book by my bed and when I would wake up during the night I would write down what I had forgotten so it could become an action item.2 Corinthians 10:5 (MSG) puts it well as it says, “fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ.”Take hold of your dreamsYou will find that as you bring order to your chaotic thoughts you will be able to write your vision. What do you feel is something that only YOU can do? What are you dreaming at night? What is your purpose? As you put words around what God has put in your heart, your next steps will become more clear.Remember, there is no waste in God’s economy. You may have a book inside you that you need to write so that it will bless many others. Perhaps, you are to write a blog about your experiences as a caregiver.PrayerI am so grateful, Lord, that You have placed a vision inside me to compel me to run. I am no longer running from the difficulties, Instead, I am increasing in stamina and courage to finish strong what You have called me to do no matter what others do. I pray for wisdom in writing down the loose thoughts, emotions and impulses so that they propel me toward a life shaped like Jesus. You have come to give me abundant life and I enter into all that You have for me today.In Jesus’ name. Amen.Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

In this podcast episode, Karen Sebastian-Wirth (AKA The Hope Lady) shares the importance of determining your own hope level. You CAN be a thermostat and raise the hope level no matter what is going on around you. This is especially challenging when you are a caregiver who is monitoring the progress of serious health conditions.  We find ourselves standing where we always hoped we might stand—out in the wide open spaces of God’s grace and glory, standing tall and shouting our praise. Romans 5:3 MSGTakeaways:Hope is realistic. Hope is not unabashed denial that there is a problem. Instead, it is educating yourself enough to understand the terms the medical professionals are using and trusting God in the midst of it all. Your confidence is in the way that God will work out the details even when you get bad news. You will survive and even thrive in the midst of it all.You can land in a wide open space. Hope says that no matter what happens you will land on your feet. You will continue to experience God’s grace and glory in the midst of the darkest times. You get to choose your posture (more on that later). You can choose to shout praises. Now that’s contagious hope.Active Self-Care:Find places that bring you peaceGo for a walkFind consistent green spaceGet outside and enjoy sunrises (or sunsets)Use alternate methods of communicationIt is hard to hang on to hope when facing a critical diagnosis or the never-ending hamster wheel of caring for a loved one. This is especially true during a stay in the hospital. Everyone wants to know the details and you grow weary of repeating yourself. Still, in speaking the truth in love and declaring the goodness of the Lord in the midst of the hard times, you inject hope into the conversation.Recruit others to  help you communicate progress or lack thereofInvestigate alternate ways of letting others know what is going onMake a prayer and praise listPraise worthy blessings need to be acknowledged. Make your list and keep it updated. Speaking the praise out loud intensifies its benefits. Shout your praise and you will be amazed at the release it bringsPrayerLord, you fill our hearts with hope in the darkest nights of our soul. I ask You to fill the precious caregivers reading this now to feel an infusion of hope that they can pass on to the others in the situation. Things may look bad now, yet I am grateful for so many blessings. I shout praises to You for ________________. You always have me land on my feet. You give me grace for every situation and we see miracles of Your glory at every turn. I know we will continue to sense your presence and thank You for every provision.In Jesus’ name. Amen.Follow us on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeispowerfulpodcastFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulPlease leave a review and share if you know those who will be blessed with this content.Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book. Psalm 56:8 NLT*Be sure to reach out for help with your sadness if it is overwhelming. There are so many who will be happy to help you. Tears are a gift so give yourself permission to have a good cry.Active Self-CareFace your emotionsEmotions are neutral. Feeling them fully is a blessing as they are simply telling you that you are carrying a burden that is too heavy for you to handle. Tears can provide a release of pent up emotions so they don’t stay in your body as stress symptoms such as fatigue or pain. To stay healthy and release stress, I encourage you to cry.Refuse to apologize for your tearsMost people say, “Please excuse me for crying. I am trying hard not to because it makes me feel weak.” The opposite is true. It takes strength and self-awareness to cry. Crying makes you feel better, even when a problem persists. Tears are part of the process that can heal your heart. You don’t want to hold tears back. For both men and women, tears are a sign of courage, strength, and authenticity.Ride the wave to comfortThe basic principle in my book, The Power of Hope in Mourning: Ride the Waves to Comfort is to welcome the wave of grief every time you feel it hit you. Tears help you process loss in the right way so you can keep living with an open heart. As tears hit you unexpectedly when someone asks you how your loved one is doing just stop for a few minutes. Open up and let them know you need help in your caregiving journey. PrayerThank You, Lord, for caring about our sadness. It is amazing to me that you take the time to keep track of all our sorrow. It’s never too much for You. In fact, it’s so precious to You, that You have a special bottle where you collect these tears. You write them down in your book. You embrace us and comfort us as we mourn. You are so close when our hearts are broken. We are grateful and will cherish our tears in the same way You do.In Jesus’ name. Amen.Here are more letters of the ABCs of Self-Care for Caregivers - so far:Accept Your Role with HonorBounce Back with HopeCelebrate EverythingDance with AbandonEat Right and Enjoy Every BiteForgive FreelyGo OutsidePlease subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcasting platform.For more information, check out Karen's Instagram and Facebook group.Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring. Isaiah 58:11 VoiceIn this podcast, Karen remembers her journey as a caregiver when her late husband, Bill, was in the Intensive Care Unit for 14 days. The lessons she learned there will bless you today.Takeaways:You deserve time to yourself. Budget at least 10 - 15 minutes outside every day.The increase in Vitamin D strengthens your immune system.Be present and mindful about everything that surrounds you.Take in some sunsets and sunrises.Enjoy the beauty of God's creation.On cloudy days look up expecting hope rays.God is at work even in the dark moments and always sends a message of hope just when we need it the most.Gardening is a good reason to get outside as well.Time outside will lower blood pressure, decrease anxiety and provide low impact exercise.PrayerThank You, Lord, for Your consistent guidance through the maze of caregiving for ____________ (name). So often my well feels very dry so it is a comfort to know that You will give me water and will restore my strength. Oh, how I need that right now as I am exhausted and feel like I don’t even have time to catch my breath. Thank You for comparing me to a well-watered garden. Even if I never plant a garden I will go outside and enjoy Your garden with it’s greenery, flowers, birds and butterflies. You will restore me as I rest in You and soak in Your beauty. Thank You that as I do that I can be an ever-flowing spring to others in need. As I meet others who need hope let me have extra to share with them.In Jesus’ name. Amen.For the other topics in the ABCs of Self-Care for Caregivers series, please check out the following podcasts:A - Accept Your Role with HonorB - Bounce Back with HopeC - Celebrate EverythingD - Dance with AbandonE - Eat Right and Enjoy Every BiteF- Forgive FreelyPlease subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcasting platform.For more information, check out Karen's Instagram and Facebook group.Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

In this podcast Karen shares the secrets of how to truly forgive. Family dynamics can be complicated and it is wonderful to know that you can give yourself the gift of forgiveness no matter what the other person has done or is doing.Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32 (New Living Translation)Sandy grew up with a neglectful Dad and an abusive Mom. After her Dad's untimely death she reached out to her Mom only to discover that she was in the beginning stages of dementia. She had been working on forgiveness for many years and made a startling decision - she moved her into her own home. Unfortunately, the dementia only became worse and at one point she had to make the tough decision to put her home into a full-time facility as she would wander off while Sandy was at work. Still, she would go pick her up and take her to the park.I'll never forget the text I got from her where she was having so much fun as her Mom observed the squirrels and enjoyed her visit. The forgetfulness was a gift to both of them because Sandy had fully forgiven and wanted to change the end of their story. Here are three important parts of forgiving:1. Forgive those who have wronged you.The first step in forgiving is to acknowledge that someone has wronged you. Bring the hidden into the open rather than pretending that everything is okay. 2. Choose to forgive so you can be free from a prison of bitterness. Forgiveness is the gift you give yourself so you can stop thinking about the situation. It's the sample prayer that Jesus gave us in the Lord's prayer. You ask your Heavenly Father to forgive you the way you forgive others. You release the anger, acknowledge it and forgive.3. Speak kind words.Unforgiveness hardens your heart. She conducts her conversation with wisdom and the speaking of kindness is every her concern. Proverbs 31:26Pass on a legacy of kindness to future generations. No matter how wrong another person is, it is never right to be unkind.Reframe unkind words and find out where these feelings are coming from. Avoid martyrdom by listing all the blessings this difficult person provides for you.How is forgiveness working for you?Would love to hear if this episode has helped you in any way. What other topics do you want me to talk about?For the other topics in the ABCs of Self-Care for Caregivers series, please check out the following podcasts:A - Accept Your Role with HonorB - Bounce Back with HopeC - Celebrate EverythingD - Dance with AbandonE - Eat Right and Enjoy Every BitePlease subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcasting platform.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeispowerfulpodcastFollow us on Facebook: https://www.faceSend a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

In this episode, Karen talks about the need to eat real food in order to stay healthy and strong.Takeaways:1) Develop a taste for good foodMost of us crave a hot fudge sundae rather than a salad. See, I bet the picture you saw was of hot chocolate sauce melting into the creaminess of the vanilla ice cream. But what if we started feeling the same way toward the salad? What is your favorite salad? How about your favorite healthy snack? Fill the refrigerator with wholesome yummy food and take the extra time to prepare it. Remove all the unhealthy stuff for a while so that you are not tempted. Eating well takes forethought so that you have the right snacks and balanced meals. Hope Tip: Look for recipes for the vegetables that are in season. Go to the Farmer’s Market to get a good deal on the organic version.2) Adjust your appetiteAt the beginning of each week, set aside a few hours over the weekend to prepare healthy snacks. Put them in the snack resealable plastic bags so you can pack them with your lunch. Once you start eating the right foods you will no longer crave the unhealthy ones. It’s okay to treat yourself sometimes with dark chocolate. Berries are always filling and a tasty treat. Hope Tip: Talk about the healthy food you enjoy most rather than what you can’t have.3) Reward yourself with non-food itemsWhat’s your favorite book? What are rituals that you have in the evening (besides eating)?Light your favorite candle and put on music that lifts your spirit. I especially enjoy worship music and scented candles. Buy yourself a new journal and write in it every evening. Make your day about your life and not the food that you eat. No wonder Jesus said in Matthew 6:31-34 (Voice): “So do not consume yourselves with questions: What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear? Outsiders make themselves frantic over such questions; they don’t realize that your heavenly Father knows exactly what you need. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and then all these things will be given to you too. So do not worry about tomorrow. Let tomorrow worry about itself. Living faithfully is a large enough task for today.” Hope Tip: Let your loved ones know about your favorites – candles, books, music, perfume, etc. Don’t save any of it for special occasions. Use it every day.PrayerThank You Lord that you are always good. Even in the midst of the weight of caregiving I declare that You are good and You provide just what I need when I need it. I partner with You now to not be consumed with what I will eat, drink or wear. I don’t want to be consumed with what I eat. I want to seek You first and all that is right. Thank You for giving me everything that I need just when I need it. I give you my worry about tomorrow and thank You for the grace to be faithful in serving __________________ today.In Jesus’ name. Amen.Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

You turned my mourning into joyful dancing. Psalm 30:11 NLT In this episode, we’re going to look at some ways to enjoy your life a little more without worrying so much about what others might be thinking. Karen starts out telling her own “dance” story. Takeaways:Get out of your comfort zone and do something you love to do.Make a list of what you really enjoy doing.Hope Tip: Mind map a list of things you want to do and make plans to start at least one of them.Stop worrying about what others think.Regain your sense of freedom, spontaneity and excitement.Stop being so concerned about what others think when you start to get out of our comfort zone. You may be worried about what others might think but in reality they are probably not even thinking about you. Stop looking around for approval or asking for permission. Take a chance by trying something new. You can do this. Hope Tip: Look at the list created above and take a step in the direction of making it happen. Subscribe to our podcast and if you enjoyed it, please write a review. Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeispowerfulpodcastFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerful What do you plan to do that gets you out of your comfort zone?Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Celebrate with great joy. Nehemiah 8:12 NIVDuring the last year and half of my first husband’s life, I had a morning routine. I would tiptoe into his bedroom to check on him.I stood willing him to move a finger or something to show me that he was still with us. The rhythmic sound of the ventilator that was doing the breathing for him due to the paralysis of his diaphragm from muscular dystrophy rang in my ears.Just as I would feel fear grip my heart, his right pinkie would move slightly. I would sigh in relief and proceed to wake him up.One of the greatest joys that still lasts from the days when I cared for him, was the way we celebrated life as a family. I determined that we would live with no regrets. That took many forms. The kids and grandkids gathered often at our home to celebrate.Years before, we had started taking pictures sitting on the hearth of the fireplace in the den. We celebrated simply but consistently. We gathered at our home for every holiday and every birthday. Bill was an avid collector of all things western so we had a western night.What can you do differently?It may seem like your life is devoid of events to celebrate so expand your horizons and celebrate life itself. Watching Bill’s strength as his body failed prompted a common set of questions that allows you to find a different perspective:Can you breathe on your own?Were you able to swallow your food as you ate today?Can you walk and jump out of bed?Then it’s a great day! Celebrate EVERYTHING!!!!Ways to take care of yourselfLive with no regretsTake advantage of every opportunity to celebrate. Take the trips that you’ve put off taking. Say the words that need to be said. As you spend so much of your time taking care of others do not lose the opportunities that you have. AssignmentSchedule a few hours where you can do something you like to do. It may be to go get a cup of coffee by yourself or a walk in the park.Learn how to celebrateWhat went well this week? Celebrate every victory by acknowledging it. It really doesn’t matter how small the win may seem to someone else, you can still celebrate it. Set up your celebration calendar. Look up the crazy national days and celebrate them as well. For example: October 1st is National Homemade Cookies Day. Celebrate by making your favorite homemade cookie. Well, you get the idea.AssignmentStart small with one celebration a month. What are you going to celebrate?Prepare favorite foodsEven when Bill could no longer eat because he lost his ability to swallow we would talk about what his ‘meal’ was that day. It was usually meatloaf and mashed ‘taters.’ To this day, we still celebrate birthdays with the celebrant’s favorite food and dessert. We celebrate Bill’s earthy birthday with tacos because that was the last meal that he ate before having the feeding tube. What is your favorite food?AssignmentMake a list of favorite foods and share recipes. What’s the most decadent? What’s the healthiest?PrayerThank You, Lord, that I can choose to celebrate today (Nehemiah 8:12 Voice). Thank You for the race that I get to run in caring for those I love. It can seem hard and that I Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

We have been knocked down but we are not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:9Have you felt this week that you could not go on? Have you felt that your caregiving situation is more than you can handle? You are not alone.Resilience means that you will come out stronger than ever before if you hang on to hope.You can go from being a victim to a victor.It comes by choosing a positive attitude. Did you know you are the only one who gets to choose your attitude?Your choices gives you power. This does not mean you ignore the issues that are there and yet, you choose that in this temporary assignment you will make it through.When you feel like a failure  just press on.Pick yourself back up and say, "It's okay."Embrace resilienceResilience is the quality some people seem to possess that when they get knocked down they bounce back stronger than ever. They always find a way to rise from the ashes and the struggles of life. My Dad was a wonderful example of this when my Mom died. He beat the statistics and lived well. You can also go from being a victim to becoming a victor. He chose a positive attitude every day. He chose optimism and to look at the positive side of his situation and you can do the same.Assignment: Rephrase your self-description from failure to "bounce-back kid."Show your weakness“But this beautiful treasure is contained in us—cracked pots made of earth and clay—so that the transcendent character of this power will be clearly seen as coming from God and not from us.” 2 Corinthians 4:7 (Voice)There is a beautiful treasure inside you that others need to see.  Don't try to be too strong and perfect. Show your cracks. The areas where you feel so weak is where God wants to show His glory. Relax and enjoy the ride. Assignment: Take advantage of every opportunity to show the hope inside you, even through the cracks.Please subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcasting platform.Apple: https://bit.ly/Hope-is-powerful-podcastSpotify: https://bit.ly/spothopeispowerfulSend a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

So no matter what your task is, work hard. Always do your best as the Lord’s servant, not as man’s, because you know your reward is the Lord’s inheritance. You serve the Lord, the Anointed One. Colossians 3:23-24 (Voice)Are you a caregiver? Do you know someone who is? No doubt the answer to these questions is “yes.”By conservative estimates, there are over 53 million informal caregivers in the United States. These individuals volunteer their time to care for the basic needs of others. They often feel underappreciated and overworked. Worse yet, they may become ill because they are not caring for their own needs.Why do you do what you do? You want to help your family care for your little ones and your elders. It is honorable. At the same time, you do not have to sacrifice your health and well-being. Take the time to take care of YOU!What can you do differently?Remember you ALWAYS have a choice.If you currently feel stuck in a difficult situation, apply hope and honor generously.Hope says that the results will be worth every bit of work and effort.Honor says that you value yourself and the person(s) you serve.Ways to Take Care of Yourself1) Change your perspective from futility to hopeI was so angry after we first moved in with my mother-in-law after the death of my father-in-law that I was blinded to the truth of how this experience was shaping me into the person that I am today. I felt that no one heard me and that my vote didn’t matter. What a lie that was! It made times tough in our marriage. Partner with your spouse and siblings on caring for your loved one(s).It is important to change your perspective from a day-to-day mind numbing stumbling down a dark hallway by switching on the hope light and choosing to move forward with honor for the process. This season won’t last forever. It’s not the end of the world. Instead, it’s a tremendous opportunity to grow and get truth from the Lord.2)Honor what you doI know you probably are not receiving a salary but you are bringing tremendous value to the family dynamic. You can be trusted to bring the absolutely best care for your loved one. You will learn a great deal in a short period of time. Your contribution is priceless. Let others know what a privilege it is do what only you can do.Reframe the words you use to describe your role. Stop discounting it because you receive no pay. Honor where God has placed you. You make such a difference.3) Look beyond the day-to-dayNow this is a harder one to do in the day-to-day grind of caregiving. The person you care for may be grumpy and unkind. They may never thank you. They may have dementia and not even remember who you are. Still, you can do this as “unto one of the least of these” (Matthew 25:40). This is the term that Jesus used in thanking those who had fed him and clothed him. He said that because they had done it to those who could not do it for themselves they had done it for Him. This is the best motivator of all. You may have to remind yourself from time to time.AssignmentWrite down a description of your caregiving assignment in the comments.Avoid the use of the word “just” when describing what you do.PrayerThank you, Lord, for the privilege and honor to accept my role as caregiver for _____________. I thank you for theSend a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

In honor of Autism month (April), Karen is speaking with Isabelle Mosca founder of Faces 4 Autism. She shares her story of how she became a Bright Sider who was determined to capture photos of sunrises and sunsets. She started this practice as a way to let her Mom, who was in the hospital, enjoy the beauty she was missing.Takeaways:Find your joy. Find your purpose.She started a non-profit called Faces 4 Autism twenty years ago when her son was diagnosed with autism.  Here are some Hope Nuggets for those with a special needs child:You are doing a good job - the best that you can do. If you do not believe that then:Go meet a friendJoin a support groupYou need people who get it.Stop and go rest. There is no time for self-pity. Hope keeps you going and moving.Take a 10 minute self-care moment:Cry it out.Scream it out.Craft it out.Make a phone call.Write it in a journal.Then you can become a new person.Take turtle steps and keep moving.Hope is the sunrise and the sunset.I give my light to others and they give theirs back to me.Inclusion allows purpose and joy in all of our experiences.My focus of inclusion has expanded my world.Instead of judging, hope encourages me to get the story.Every day you can look at the darkness and then choose to look on the bright side. Website: https://faces4autism.org/Podcast: https://www.faces4autism.org/podcastFacebook group: https://www.facebook.com/LifeOntheBrightSidePageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourlifeonthebrightside/Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

In this episode Karen has a great conversation with Debbie Weiss, founder of Caregiver Support Squad around the need for caregivers to take focus on self-care.As a teenager Debbie had to grow up really fast and take care of her father for thirty years. Currently she cares for her disabled husband and son which led her to give everything that she had and feeling angry, resentful, overwhelmed and exhausted along the way. You know those feelings, right?She was always so busy thinking what she needed to do for everyone else she never considering that she needed to care for herself too.You can transform your life one day at a time. It is critically important for every caregiver to focus on prioritizing their own care. Do not stay in a negative world of overwhelm, jealousy, anger and exhaustion. Practical steps:Create a new habit by taking small incremental steps.Pick something you want to do. Start with 5 minutes a day several times a week.Find the right activities.Don't be discouraged.Stop being hard on yourself.Self-care is a necessity not a luxury.You only have one life to live. While you choose to live it caring for loved ones, you can still take care of yourself and enjoy your life.Reach out to Debbie on her website:http://www.caregiversupportsquad.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caregiver.support.squad Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Caregiver-Support-Squad-110432541469869/eMail: [email protected] rate and write a review if this episode helped you in any way. Find out more about Hope is Powerful podcast on the following:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeispowerfulpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulWebsite: https://www.karensebastian.comSend a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

In this episode, Karen shares a great conversation with Lesley McShane. She tells her compelling story of how she found her voice. Her podcast, The New Old You, is geared to women over 50 who feel the need to find their voice. She is certainly leading by example in a brilliant way.Lesley started small with a blog and moved forward to her podcast. After turning 50 and needing an outlet she challenged her self-belief that it was too late to start something. This podcast is for you if you relate to that feeling.Imposter SyndromeYou may suffer from imposter syndrome - feeling unworthy to do great things.It sounds like, "Who am I to ___________."With Imposter Syndrome you are worried about what others will think and you stay in a safe zone. Instead, do something that scares you every day.Ways to shatter Imposter Syndrome1. Take care of yourself every day.Invest the time and effort into your own selfcare. You must love yourself before you can love others.2. Make a list of your accomplishments and/or wins.You are more qualified than you think. Ask those closest to you what they feel your abilities are. Keep a list of experiences which qualify you to do what you want to do.3. Disrupt the negative train of thought.Every day your repeat 80% of your thoughts. If they are negative you will be repeating them every day. When a negative thought pops into your head - put up the stop sign. Dealing with negative thoughtsBe aware of negative thoughts.Stop the course of the thought by asking, "Am I being kind to myself?Rewrite the thought into a positive one and repeat it until it makes up 80% of your thoughts.Takeaways:It's never too late to start something new.Take the first step to do what "only you can do."It is a lie that you are not qualified to reach your dreams.Don't think too much about it - just take steps forward.Consider that you're doing great when you are putting all your energy into what only you can do.You can experience dark times when your life plan didn't turn out like you thought it would.Your hopelessness can come from lack of self-care.Stop worrying about what others think.Follow Lesley on her Instagram page.Subscribe and listen to her podcast : The New Old YouTo increase hope and improve relationships with yourself and those that you love, check out The Hope Lady’s Facebook page – The Power of Hope and connect on Instagram – Hope is Powerful Podcast. If this has been a blessing, please share the podcast, rate it and review it.Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Believing the Truth About YourselfThis episode is an interview with Stacy McCray, host of the Faithful Mom Boss Podcast. She shares insights into her experiences as a working Mom and how her faith brought her through tough seasons.Takeaways:Find your identity in who God says you are rather than lies you believe about who you think you should be.  Be open to getting help from a therapist or counselor.  This is vital for mental health.Rewire your thoughts to who God says you are rather than believing lies.She describes the hollow feelings of depression and the dark place where she found herself.When you push your feelings down it can be so important to take the next step.Make room for one-on-one time with God and what fuels you.Get moving so you can feel more alive.Do something that empowers you.Surround yourself with encouraging people.’Self-care is not selfish; it is critical to take care of yourself.You can do it all - just not at the same time. The Hope LadyIt takes discernment to know how to set boundaries with family and work.Step back and pause when all seems to be crashing down on you.Don’t go with the first feeling of fear - step back and ask for guidance.Reframe what you think and reshape the negative patterns with the Word of God.You can support and help others because of the dark places where you have traveled.It is not what happens to you but rather how you respond to what happensGod is sovereign and will finish the work that He has started in you.Hope has nothing to do with your feelings.Be honest with God and how you are feelings because it opens your authenticity, vulnerability and work in you.There is power in Scripture so your feelings will connect as you continue to say your.You are not the only one going through this.Thoughts can be felt without being real.Karen's Instagram and Facebook page will provide more hope infusions.You can follow Stacy on Instagram.Listen to her podcast - Faithful Mom Boss: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/faithful-mom-boss/id1600813841Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Are you overwhelmed by your duties as a caregiver? Do you feel as if you're navigating through unchartered territory? Caring for the needs of a dependent loved one can be a long, sometimes frightening task—like rafting through deep canyons filled with treacherous whitewater rapids. Serving as a compassionate and seasoned guide, Karen Sebastian-Wirth equips you with hope to help you embrace and even enjoy the ride. You will discover practical ways to empower your loved one with honor and dignity. You can serve them well and complete the journey with no regrets.Key Points:Pray with gratitude for your temporary assignmentPrayers are powerful because to whom we pray understands what we're going throughPrayers are more effective when we releasing complaints birthed from fearAdditional Takeaways:Prayers can be hindered by a sense of martyrdom so choose to view your assignment as a privilege and honor.You always have a choice.Thank the Lord for your temporary assignment.When praying from your heart honor will begin.You will always be prepared for what's coming next.You will gain experience as you go.Jesus was a caregiver as can be seen by His words on the cross to John to take care of Mary, his mother.Turn your complaints into prayers of love and support.Release all anger, bitterness and choose to speak loving words.Choose to speak the language of love rather than of fear.Prayer is your best friend.For those who can't find the words to pray, here's sample wording:1. Thank you Lord for this temporary assignment of caring for the needs of _______________. I am grateful I can be the one who has this privilege and I know I will miss this journey when it is complete. I choose to find joy every day and to rest in your grace and mercy.2. Thank you Lord, that you've been through the caregiving journey. You've been tested. You've experienced the weariness I now feel. So Lord I'm going to walk right up to you and ask for strength today. I'm going to take your mercy and your help. Together we will get through this.3. Lord, right now I'm hurting. I am angry and I know that behind that anger is the fear of what our future might look like. I can't carry this burden by myself. I trust You. I am going to embrace hope. This is a situation I never wanted to sign up for. Yet, here I am. Take my anger, my fear and replace it with love.If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe, rate and review. You can get more hope encouragement in the following places:InstagramFacebookYou can order The Power of Hope for Caregivers from this link:Kindle Version PaperbackSend a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

In this episode Karen Sebastian-Wirth candidly shares a personal story of her struggles and victories as a caregiver.There are some takeaways from this episode:Choose hope instead of complaining because this only make the situation worse.You can choose your personal approach in hopeless situations.Choose a hope perspective because your caregiving journey will not last forever.You can gain a sense of purpose so you can know where you are in your journeyLive the way God wants you to live and make that choice every day.You get to respond and set the atmosphere even when circumstances are not what you wish they were.Hope says, "I'm going to choose the paddle of honor for the caregiving journey - it's rough AND an adventure."Honor means respect and favorable regard.Recognize the role of this person in your life and honor their position in your family.You can change the legacy and the direction of your family.Rewrite the end of the story of your family through honor.You get to change the atmosphere and decide which way your life goes.Establish the tone and change the atmosphere with peace, abundance and hope.Let go of the role of a martyr as you make the decision to be a Hope Ambassador. HOPE ToolsYou are stronger than you think you are.Choose to be a Hope AmbassadorChoose to learnChoose to laughHonor KeyHonor the one you care for because of who they are (not what they do or have done), and trust God to work out the details.Hope ExpressionsThe proof that we love God comes when we keep his commandments and they are not at all troublesome. 1 John 5:3 (MSG)Send a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

In this episode, Karen takes a deep dive into the Biblical perspective of the number two in Scripture. Here are a few of the nuggets she shares:Proverbs 10:22 - Our verse and word for year. The blessing of the Lord makes one rich and He adds to sorrow! (King James Version)True enrichment comes from the blessing of the Lord, with rest and contentment in knowing that it all comes from him. (The Passion Translation)The Biblical meaning of two is - faithful witness or double testimony. These two witnesses are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord God of the whole earth. - Revelation 1:14 (TPT)Throughout Scriptures there are many instances of the expression "out of the mouth of two or three witnesses." This indicates the awesome power of what we say and agreeing regarding anything.Old TestamentOn the 2nd day of creation God created the sky or the firmament. The sky's the limit.Genesis 2:22 - God created woman.Exodus 2:22 - Moses is born and is the second son.Psalm 22:2 - I will declare your name. I will praise you.The 222nd verse of the Bible is Genesis 9:16 where God gives the promise of the rainbow. You have a good future filled with variety and beauty.Daniel 22:2 - God reveals the deep and hidden things. He knows what is in the darkness and the light dwells with him.New TestamentJesus says that is two or three are gathered in His name - He right there. There is no limit to the power of agreement.The disciples were sent two by two.There are 22 epistles.Acts 2:22 is the only verse in the Bible that has these three words: Signs|Miracles|Wonders.The book of Revelation has 22 chapters.Follow Karen on the following:Website: https://www.karensebastian.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeispowerfulpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulSend a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Karen Sebastian-Wirth is affectionately known as The Hope Lady. In this episode, John Chao interviews her and she shares her heart about her journey and the experiences that brought the depth of hope into her life. Takeaways:When you look for negatives you will find them. Switch them around by focusing on what is positive.On your darkest days you can look up for hope rays. God will always be faithful to provide them.If you are feeling hopeless, know that you can make a different choice even if the circumstances do not change.Delay is often in the timing of God's plan so don't get discouraged if you are in a waiting room.God uses every circumstance for His glory and in His plan for our good.Sometimes the thing we want most can interfere with God's plan.You can always choose hope - a confident expectation of a good outcome no matter what you are going through right now.God always has a plan.Focus on your own decision to choose to be a Hope Ambassador and take hope into dark places.Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the plans I have for you. Plans for good and not for evil to give you a future and a hope. She is interviewed by John Chao who hosts The John Collective podcast.You can find out more at https://www.thejohncollective.com.He is on Instagram at: instagram/thejohncollectiveFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulSend a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.

Hello! This is the Hope is Powerful Podcast. I’m your host Karen Sebastian-Wirth affectionately known as The Hope Lady.  I haven’t always been known as The Hope Lady. In fact, at one point, the only way I helped others was that they felt better about their lives after hearing me complain about my problems. That all changed when I faced a serious health challenge and realized that the only one I could change in my dark place was me. A serious look in the mirror brought about a decision to become the most positive person in the room. That decision changed my life. This podcast is about hope – and not the wishy-washy kind where you cross your fingers and weakly say… I hope everything turns out okay… This is powerful HOPE that admits that even through right now this situation is tough it WILL get better and your hope quotient will grow.  You can expect to hear from me every week. I will also invite guests who have stories to share about how in their darkest moments they found a reason to keep going. I started this podcast because after my first husband died, I wanted to give up, yet somehow at my lowest points I would look up at the dark clouds swirling above me to discover glorious hope rays piercing the darkness.  You will gain a hope mindset that allows you to objectively face where you are now AND says I WILL get through this. Hope empowers you to come out on the other side stronger and able to reach back to someone who is at their rock bottom. https://www.instagram.com/hopeispowerfulpodcasthttps://www.facebook.com/thepowerofhopehttps://www.karensebastian.comSend a textFor more hope inspiration you can follow her posts on:https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.ladyhttps://www.facebook.com/hopeispowerfulRate and review this podcast to spread the hope to others who need to be reminded they can go from rock-bottom to the mountain top one step at a time.