maralascottsblog God, Happiness, Helping Others, kindness, relationships

Life Comes With The Responsibility…

It’s amazing how quickly time begins to pass and then you suddenly realize that you’ve become that very age you first thought your parents were old. It’s an eye-opening revelation that will cause you to reflect on your life with more depth. The thought of what you have or haven’t accomplished in both your personal life and career can cause you to feel that you’ve failed. On the other hand, you may be extremely proud of what you’ve accomplished. However, have you left a mark in this world that you can be proud of? Do you love the person you’ve become? Have you done something that spiritually connects you to what we are here for? Have you been able to positively impact the lives of others in some big or small way? Will people remember your contributions to society or continue your initiatives?

Considering where you are and what you have or haven’t done, it is never too late to do more and care about others by giving more of yourself. This opportunity we have, called life, is meant for us to live to the fullest and we are supposed to be happy. Nevertheless, life comes with the responsibility to show compassion for our brothers and sisters around the globe with understanding that compassion is without boundaries.

Keep in mind that as long as you are breathing, you are not finished and there is more for you to do. Take a moment each day just to ask yourself, ‘What can I do for others? How can I show that I care? How can I please God?’ and then begin your day from there. You’ll make a difference although you may never see it. Your destiny is greater than your goals and your goals are greater than you may realize as of yet. In time, it will all come together. Until then, make better use of your ability to impact the lives of others in some way.

share-with-others

 

MaralaScott.com

maralascottsblog Forgiveness, Happiness, Helping Others, Self-Love

Hanging on to What You Can’t Control Will Only Hurt You

virginity-test

When it comes to those days where nothing seems to be going the way you need it, don’t worry, things will improve once you change your way of thinking. It helps when you step back and allow whatever is unavoidable to happen, especially since it was going to take place regardless. If you did whatever you could to avoid it, but it didn’t make a difference, let it go. Hanging on to what you can’t control will only hurt you. It doesn’t mean accept failure or submit to the problem at hand, it simply means release the burden at that moment so you can gather your thoughts, compose yourself, and take time to rethink the situation or create another strategy.

How do you release it?

  1. Take time to learn how to solve the problem instead of becoming a part of it.
  2. Discuss the situation with someone you trust who gives unbiased and solid advice that will help diffuse your negative mindset.
  3. Don’t discuss a negative situation with negative people.
  4. Step back and take in a breath of fresh air. Go to a movie, listen to music, meditate or do something calming that will help recalibrate your way of thinking.
  5. Look at all sides rather than just yours and give an honest evaluation.
  6. Understand that it’s not the end, especially if you are looking for a positive resolution.

Overreacting can make things worse and talking about it while you are upset is a sure way to overshare thoughts that you may regret later. There’s a lot more you have to do so learn to accept that you cannot control, fix or stop every situation. Sometimes, in that moment it’s hard to believe that it will be okay, but it will.

 

o-WOMEN-HUGGING-facebook

maralascottsblog God, Happiness, Helping Others, Self-Love

There Is More To Your Life

Do you ever wonder why you aren’t out there accomplishing more? If you are accepting of your life but not happy with where you are, it’s time to change your thought process. There is so much more to life than you may realize. When it came to the things I loved, I did them with passion but one day, I realized I was running the same routine while looking at the rest of the world from inside of what seemed to be a safe globe. I did the things that I was familiar with, but I didn’t pursue the opportunities that made me happy. I felt stuck.

There came a point when I decided to step outside of my comfort zone so that I could learn more about myself. When I realized there were many things I loved to do and learn about, I allowed those things to be a part of my life. Ultimately, I was happier as I discovered there was more to me than I expressed. I had ambitions, passion, and an innate desire to help others.

Through self-discovery, I learned to love myself unconditionally, which allowed me to be better at loving others. I came to understand the true purpose of my life. Sometimes, people need a little help beginning, what may seem like, a difficult process but they too can do it. It’s vital to your success not to be afraid of life. Break the cycle of living a life that isn’t fulfilling, but normal to you since it’s all you know. Dare to rewrite your story and begin to live with a different outlook on life because there is more to be discovered.

Where to begin:

1. Learn to stop being uninspired or stuck
2. End self-defeating patterns
3. Conquer limitations

If you are ready to transform your life and live in the Los Angeles area, this is a great place to start:
http://rewritestory.com/evolution-fest

 

maralascottsblog Forgiveness, God, Happiness, Helping Others, inspirational stories

Life

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Once you’re here, it’s real. Life isn’t simulated and you don’t get a practice run so you may as well resign to the fact of making this gift work, as our time isn’t guaranteed. Now I am at an age that I’ve learned to give an honest reflection of my life. I think about what I’ve been through and how many situations and their outcome have shaped me into the person I am today. I have to admit that sadness seeps in when I review the time that I squandered being angry and unwilling to forgive others for things that may have been out of their control at the time; they may have been a product of their environment. I remember time spent trying to control things I had no control over and the frustration it brought. I had moments that I wanted to give up before understanding the challenges I had were meant to make me stronger, and they did.

Each time I sought solace, I went to God and each time, God answered. There were times I listened and then there were times I didn’t because I wanted the fast, convenient path to my goals; but it never worked. As I learned to become diligent in submitting to God and the destiny that He had for me, things became clearer and I was able to see and comprehend His plan.

God wanted me to be kinder, more forgiving, and see far beyond my own plight. God wanted me to care about something other than what was within my grasp and share something that didn’t cost a thing. The same inspiration God granted me was meant for me to share with you. It lifted me up so I could see there was more beauty to life than what I was focusing on.

In your darkest hours, painful moments or times of struggle go beyond your boundaries and share compassion for others. Give freely and care abundantly as the healing will be for you. I am still growing and learning but I am trusting God to lead me through my journey. What people see in me that inspires them and lifts them at times of need is simply God working through me because I am receptive to it. Take the attention off of your problems and focus on developing yourself. It works because it will make you stronger and more resilient so you will accomplish your goals.

maralascottsblog God, Happiness, inspirational stories, Self-Love

Intuition Is …

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

There are times that you may feel alone in your decision-making but you aren’t. When you need to make a decision and you aren’t sure what to do, find a place that allows you to transition into a peaceful state of mind. Whether that’s walking along the beach, practicing meditation, yoga or cooking, do what you love to calm your spirit before making a decision that has the ability to influence your future.

All of us have something that protects us from our own decisions or rationalization. However, many of the choices we make are emotional choices because we want what we want. When we are overcome with that feeling that is telling you to do something or not to do something, that’s your intuition. You may not understand it because intuition rises above reason and in the words of Steve Jobs, “Intuition is a very powerful thing, more powerful than intellect.” Although you may not understand why you should trust it, it is there to protect, guide and teach you. When you look behind you, evidence of your choices opposing your intuition is there for you to learn from.

Find peace, submit to God’s gift of intuition and trust it. You will be able and more willing to do so as you continue to remove negativity and unnecessary noise from your life so you can tune into your intuition.

Order your copy: Amazon

MaralaScott.com

Intuition

maralascottsblog God, Happiness, inspirational stories

Allow This To Inspire You … The Little Signs Are Really The Big Ones

I was walking along the beach where I found my first sand dollar years ago. I am a collector of them and was searching for another one. After a few days of searching, I realized the ocean was not willing to share it. My mind was clear and I was as carefree as one can get. It’s my way of taking in peaceful moments so that when I take in the negativity or stress from life or others, my peace will not diminish.

Typically, sand dollars are found near the shore burrowed in the sand. For some reason, I didn’t want to leave this beach without one. An hour later, the sun was beginning to set and I paused for a brief moment and said, “Father God, I’d really like a sand dollar. Just one. A big one, but just one.” Yes, it seems like a very insignificant request, but meaningful to me. If you don’t know the spiritual significance behind a sand dollar you will want to know it. It was my daughter that shared it with me.

As I continued to comb the beach searching for sand dollars, I didn’t realize that a wide stream of water separated me from the ocean. To get closer to the ocean I walked across two feet of water. When I reached the other side, I looked down and saw this very beautiful and large sand dollar on the edge of the water, partially buried. The smile on my face was so broad you would have thought I won the biggest lottery. I reached my hand into the water and carefully scooped it up. “Thank you God,” I said jumping around the beach with my smile. “Thank you!”

Okay, it sounds strange, but it is truly my faith. You see God sends me little affirmations all the time to let me know He hears me. So when the big things happen or the beautiful things evolve, I know it’s because of Him too. God knows my true spirit, heart and mind. He knows that I ask because I know He can and will. With all of the troubles and burdens of this world, He has always made time for my prayers and conversations. He has healed me from feeling the pain of my childhood and given me tremendous strength to endure. Regardless of what you may think, it is your faith that will bring you to this if you truly believe. I don’t believe in coincidence but I do believe in God. Sometimes the little signs are really big signs to let you know that God is listening, so believe.

maralascottsblog Happiness, Helping Others, inspirational stories

Switchfoot’s Wave of Inspiration

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

I was sitting at my desk overlooking a beautiful view of the woods, but I couldn’t seem to pull my thoughts together and write. Everything was peaceful, yet I couldn’t remember where I should begin or what to write about. Noticing that my fingers weren’t striking the keyboard of my computer, my daughter, Alyssa walked up behind me and said, “Let’s listen to some music.” Before I knew it, she selected one of my files and suddenly the melodious sounds began streaming into me. “Do I like this music?” I asked. “No,” she replied, “You love it.”

I was recovering from a craniotomy where I had multiple aneurysms clipped only two months prior. My speech was slow and my short-term memory, poor. I had trouble reading and writing, but I allowed the inspiration of Switchfoot to move me, and it did the same for Alyssa. The romantic, psychological thriller, Intuition was inspired by true events and one chapter after another was written to a seamless collection of their music.

Intuition was released a week prior to Switchfoot playing in our hometown. It was unquestionable that we’d go to the concert. Excitement filled me at the mere thought that they might play, “Where I Belong” because the conclusion of the story was specifically written to it. They did, and Jon Foreman exhibited the most incredible display of passion possible. He dove inside the music for the duration of the concert, belting out soul-shaking lyrics. He didn’t know it, but during one of the songs, he walked along the banister to where Alyssa and I were standing and held my hand while emitting a solid hardcore performance while the base rocked my soul! The luminosity in my daughter’s face was most likely reflected from their inspiration that night. They were a collective effort of perfection at its finest.

After the concert, we met Switchfoot backstage and shared our story of how and why Intuition came to be. Every one of the guys gave us their full attention and I will never forget the look in their eyes. I was humbled by their keen passion for life, flawless music, making a difference and inspiring people like me … without ever knowing it! I’m certain the countless fans of Switchfoot have undoubtedly been inspired as they have my daughter and I, so you get it. But if you haven’t listened to them yet, pick up any of their albums and ride the wave of inspiration. Listen to their soul tell stories about their lives, feel the creative elements they distribute freely, absorb the lyrics, feel the salt water and stars. Allow them to breathe inspiration into you. It works miracles.

 

Thank you Andrew, Ike, Jon, Tim, Drew, Jerome, and Chad!

With Love,
Marala Scott & Alyssa Curry

Visit Switchfoot’s Official Site

maralascottsblog Happiness, inspirational stories, relationships

You Think You’re Ready to be in a Relationship

Have you ever unwrapped a beautiful gift to find the contents disappointing or not anything near what you thought it might be? More often than not, that is what happens in relationships. The exterior package of the person isn’t what will make the relationship work however, the interior mindset and spirit of the individual is.

We’re worried that if we don’t jump into a relationship when it’s offered that we’ll miss out. Many times when you dive into a relationship and learn more about the person, you’d wish you had passed on it. Take time to know the person instead of believing what they tell you. Listen a little more carefully to what they’re spewing out. One thing we say after a relationship goes south is that he or she told me that… Relying on what someone tells you as oppose to what they show you in their actions is key in having or investing in a healthy relationship. Give it time to see if their words match their actions before jumping into a relationship just to have one.

maralascottsblog God, Happiness, inspirational stories, Self-Love

Each Year Brings Wisdom and Strength From Your Past Experiences

Another year is upon us and I believe it to be a blessing to me for the simple fact that I am alive. The opportunity to experience this gift of life continues. When I look back on my journey it amazes me to see the things that I’ve done, shared, and triumphed over. I refuse to give credence to difficulties, as they are now a part of history not my present or future. Instead of burdening my mind with negative situations of the past I focus on my faith, strength and ability to combat and overcome everything that has challenged me. Yes, I say overcome because I have.

My life story is one that many deem unimaginable yet I have moved through and far past it. The horrors I was plagued with did not define me as a person yet, they strengthened me as a woman. Years later, as things began to show promise I found out that while I was raising my two beautiful children, I had multiple brain aneurysms that threatened my very existence. I had to make a choice to trust God and have the surgery or live in fear dragging my children through the emotional journey. I trusted God and had the surgery without an ounce of fear and only telling a handful of people. The reason being is I love who I am and how I’ve lived. Sure, I’ve made mistakes but I’ve asked God for forgiveness and given it as well. I live in Gods light, not my own, and if by chance it was my time, I had nothing to fear. I would have left a trail of love, inspiration, and memories that would not die.

This year I am going to continue to live in faith. I am going to remain fearless as God is always with me. I am going to continue to love and not worry about being loved as it comes naturally when you love from the depths of your heart. I am going to leave an imprint that will change lives. I am going to tell you I love you and mean it, as I want you to know that you are loved and not alone. I am going to advise you to embrace life and its lessons and go get it instead of waiting for life to conquer you. Live this year and begin in faith and clean your slate by asking God for forgiveness and forgiving those that hurt you. Dare to be your best and give your best to all!

Happy New Year!

Marala Scott

maralascottsblog God, Happiness, Helping Others, inspirational stories, Self-Love

Understanding the Inevitable Act of Letting Go

Fashion-Purses-Make-More

I was doing some Christmas shopping with my beautiful daughter this evening when a young woman behind me in line took a moment to tell me how much she loved the unique design of my cream designer handbag. Her brown eyes lit up as she admired the details. I smiled and said, “Thank you,” as I lifted the strap over my shoulder and began to empty the contents of my new bag. “Since you like it …  you can have it,” I told her. She took a deep breath and stared at me in disbelief before exhaling heavily. Nevertheless, I continued to pass along the contents of my purse to my daughter, and then handed the woman the bag.

“No, you can’t do that, can you? You’re really doing this aren’t you? Where are you going to put your things?” she continued.

“In my pockets,” I replied.

“Why would you do this?” she asked.

“Because you like it. Merry Christmas,” I said with a light wave as I walked away without looking back.

It’s quite easy to find things you love and become attached to them, but sometimes the attachment isn’t always good. When we leave this earth there is nothing in it that we will take with us. Part of the beauty in life is sharing what you do have while you’re here by learning to let go of the things we love most. It doesn’t mean you go around giving away everything, but try it. Take something you love and see if you are able to walk away from it without a second thought or a single regret. When you can you’ve learned something valuable.

Everything in this life is really on loan from God. When we leave, it will stay here. People we love are the biggest test of this while being able to part from material things are a test of our spirit and prepare us for being able to understand the inevitable of letting go. Material things don’t define us and people don’t belong to us. Learn to let go while you can as it makes it less difficult when you don’t think you can. We are forced to let go of things in many unforeseen ways, such as natural disasters. But I’ve seen many do it with grace and begin to rebuild from scratch when it is one of the most difficult things they’ve had to do. Random acts of kindness remind us to let go freely. Don’t wait until you are forced to do so in order to learn this.

maralascottsblog God, Happiness, inspirational stories, relationships, Self-Love

Learning To Use Faith

There are many different ways to use the word faith but the meaning is still the same and ends in one having belief, complete trust, and sincerity in his or her intentions. Faith is a firm belief in something for which there is no proof but you remain unyielding. When it comes to doing something you believe in at times you may turn to the person closest to you for support and if they don’t believe that you can accomplish what you are attempting to do, you may not find their faith in you present. Although this can be disappointing you can alleviate that by having faith in yourself as well as in God. If you leave it to someone else to encourage you and they pull that away you do not want to find yourself standing alone void of what’s necessary to continue on what may be a lonely road. Step out on it. Yes, faith. The results will be astounding. Don’t turn back or give up, as at times you may have to walk more than half way to see your goals in sight. How can you expect others to have faith in you if you don’t have faith in yourself? When you have faith you are affirming that God is with you on your journey.

maralascottsblog children, Forgiveness, God, Happiness, Helping Others, inspirational stories, relationships, Self-Love

Your Life In Review Before It’s Too Late

When it’s all said and done and your life is over here on this earth, how will people remember you? Will they speak of you as a giver or taker? Were you a lover or did you seek out fights because you were angry? Were you someone who was fair or biased about everything that benefited you? Did you care about others or could you care less? What I want you to ask yourself is, are you on track to leave this world with a memory that you would be proud of? If you have children, will they be proud of you and have loving thoughts that no one can remove? Is your powerful imprint resting on the hearts of many or are many waiting to erase what you have left because it’s too painful? Before the time comes for you to depart from this gift of life, repair, change, and forgive, if even yourself. Take this moment right now to determine that you will live and give to the best of your capability. Make the choice to leave an impression that reflects the person you want to be and are. It’s not too late to begin again.

maralascottsblog Forgiveness, Happiness, relationships

Give Your Dull Relationship A Makeover

Once a relationship has been going on for a while doesn’t mean the loving touch that was there before has to end however, it will if the both of you allow it. There are many ways to keep your relationship fresh and full of love if you really want it to work. Try these tips and watch that intimate loving touch return:

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Ø  Stop looking for things to complain about instead, find things to laugh over.

Ø  Don’t pick your battles; don’t pick anything except healthy negotiations to resolve personal issues.

Ø  When dining out, sit next to one another so it’s easier to hold hands and share intimate conversation.

Ø  Put a heartfelt card under his or her pillow, in their drawer or on the car seat. Regardless where you place it they will know that you are thinking of them at the most random times.

Ø  Be random with a surprise, meaning just because on any day, at any time.

Ø  Leave a thoughtful message on a stressful day to help improve their mood. If you know their day is stressful don’t add to it.

Ø  Share words of inspiration as a reminder of the blessings you have.

Ø  Agree to disagree and understand that there are always at least two perspectives and yours belongs to you so be willing to compromise.

Ø  Don’t forget the loving things that brought you together.

Ø  Leave the negative past in the past if you’re still together.

Ø Take time away from everyone else to focus on one another.

Relationships are a work in progress that will have a healthy progression if you choose to pair love with understanding.

maralascottsblog God, Happiness, inspirational stories, relationships, Self-Love

The Ties That Bind Can Tear Us Apart

The ties that bind are sometimes the very ties that tear us apart, yet we stay within the proximity to allow the pain to continue on the path causing destruction. Because someone is family doesn’t mean that you should allow them to continuously plant deep seeds of negativity that will grow deeper roots of anger and discouragement inside of you. Although family is supposed to be our lifeline of encouragement, trust, protection, and love it doesn’t always turn out that way. It doesn’t mean you are bound to accept their ways as the way it is supposed to be either. You are not meant to remain a victim and let it wear you down until you can’t function to the capacity you are destined. There is much more to life than waking up each day to fight against those you love. Sometimes, a breath of fresh air and a move towards independence is liberating. Although it may seem difficult to do, it is self-destructive to continue taking. Progressing away from family, if done with positive intentions to better yourself and life as a whole, can be healing for all. It will allow you time to grow, reflect, and understand. You may never know where someone’s pain comes from but you will come to realize that his or her pain is not meant to be yours. This life is a journey and the journey is your individual imprint. Use your powerful prayers to bring God’s favor in order to help them heal.

Hard Work + Faith = Success

maralascottsblog God, Happiness, inspirational stories, Self-Love

You Think You Have The Power To Change The Past

When you drive down a road you won’t return to, the view behind you narrows until what was once there fades into history such as with life. –Marala Scott

 

It’s interesting how we’re able to hold onto negative experiences and give concentration to what happened instead of creating a solution to resolve those emotions. If you’re reading this, your life didn’t stop because of them. Regardless of what you think, you are meant to go on and persevere. Perhaps you can help someone else along the way. Allow experiences to make you stronger instead of weaker because God willing, you’ll have a long trip ahead of you and will need the strength you’re wasting on negative history. Shift your heart and mindset to make use of the life you have in front of you. Don’t dwell on the one behind you that can’t be altered in any capacity. When you drive down a road, the view behind you narrows until what was once there fades into history. Yes, the road may still be there, but it’s no longer in your future to travel.