Lizzy's Top 15 Healthy Foods

Whatever your lifestyle is, it's not difficult to make small changes.

I don't know about you but I had more sugar in the last couple of months than I've had in the last few years.

For the last four years, I've been eating pretty healthy and for some reason I went off a few months ago. Not good. It's not good because I don't 'feel' good. I went from juicing DAILY to juicing a couple of times a week in the last couple of months. I know how amazing I felt before I fell off so it's time to get back!

I started my week on Sunday with no sugar. I had a coffee this morning and added some natural brown sugar but I'll let myself off the hook this time....The last two days have been great. I know two days isn't much but what a difference I already feel just in two days. Despite still going to the gym at least a few times a week, diet is everything!

So here are my TOP healthy foods that I went and stocked up on yesterday for eating and juicing!

Apples: Calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin C, beta-carotene, pectin

Avocados: Potassium, tryptophan (an amino acid), vitamin C, beta-carotene, vitamin B5, vitamin K, high in vitamin E

Bananas: Potassium, vitamin C, beta-carotene, vitamin C, beta-carotene, vitamin K, vitamin B6

KEFIR: kefir is made by fermenting milk with 10 to 20 different types of bacteria and yeasts, where yogurt is usually just fermented with a handful of types; this leads to a higher probiotic count in the final product. Kefir is a source of several B vitamins, which are essential for our good health and functioning. It has B12, which is important for your blood and nervous system, and B1, (otherwise is known as thiamine) which is important for helping you withstand stress. Kefir also contains biotin, which is a B vitamin that helps your body use other B vitamins.

Grapefruit: Calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin C

Lemons: Potassium, vitamin C

Tomatoes: Calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, beta-carotene, folic acid, vitamin C

Beets: Calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, manganese, folic acid, vitamin C

Carrots: Calcium, magnesium, potassium, beta-carotene

Fennel: Calcium, magnesium, sodium, folic acid, vitamin C, potassium, rich in phyto-oestrogens

Spirulina: Potassium, sodium, vitamin B3, gamma-linoleic acid, beta-carotene, It's a nutrient rich algae available as a dry powder

Squash: Calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin C

Ginger: Calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium

Molasses: Calcium, magnesium, potassium, B vitamins

Quinoa: Iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin B3

I've obviously got more like salmon, flaxseeds, bee pollen, tuna, lentils, chick peas etc but for now there's a short list. By making good health your goal, you will have a better understanding of food and of the factors affecting health issues.

Even if you made poor choice this year, make 2016 a year of transformation. You deserve it!

Your True Identity Is Hidden in Him!

Being a young girl 'today' is soooooo far from what it was in my playground; when there were no reality shows, no facebook, instagram and twitter. No cell phones with data, no girls injecting their boobs and backside and of course their lips, no red bottoms...we just wanted a pair of jelly bean shoes from 'Honest Ed's' and a wind breaker oh and maybe some 'madonna glow in the dark' rubber bracelets and some ty dye to design our jeans and t-shirts... or a time when pills, mollies and X were never a cool thing to try. A time when drug addicts were soooo seperated from us......


Our youth are searching for their identity.

Their trying to find it in other boys, girls, music, drugs, alcohol, sex, celebrities, actors and rappers.

There is ONLY one place their going to find it!!! In the One who created them!!! ‪#‎God‬

I am Back In School at 40!

 

 

In the last few months I have been thinking a LOT about purpose.

Just five years ago, I barely saw any of this coming. Yes, I knew God had a purpose for my life, but I also discovered that-that purpose was rapped up in Him and in order to get to it, to have access to it, I'd have to rap myself up IN Him as well.

It took discipline, courage, strength, determination, passion, motivation and FAITH to do this. To believe that I could and would walk into all that He had ordained for my life. You see it was nothing but faith. Because looking at the conditions of my life- and especially 5/6 years ago, it was not evident that I would have overcome. No not at all!!

  

I had many plans. Plans of owning a clothing line / store, an accessories boutique, a skin care line, a perfume line, a juicing booth, an image consulting business...you name it. But none of those plans stuck with me. The more I studied Gods word and allowed Him to work through me, the closer I got to discovering my purpose. For many years, I wanted to go back to school. I've probably thought of 4-5 different degrees to study in the last 15 years. Everything from Public Relations to Social Work to Fashion. I became more and more frustrated with myself for not going to school. I was watching the time and the older I got the more frustrated I grew.

 

All of this changed when I started listening closely to Gods direction and voice. I discovered that my primary purpose was to live with and for Him (God). And through Him, I would discover my

secondary purpose. I knew that I had to be still and stop all 'my own' planning in order to allow His plans for my life to prevail. Once I surrendered my life to His plans, then I would and did discover my secondary purpose. It was only then (in the last year) that I finally got the OK in my spirit to go back to school. I know 100% what my secondary purpose is and so now is the PERFECT time (Gods time) to do so. Otherwise, I would have wasted time, money and energy.

Going back to school at 40 feels fantastic! I am a more dedicated student now than I could or would have ever been. I am stabled in my mind. I am disciplined. I am settled. I am focused and I am a leader. I am a leader because I serve many people. Not because they serve me.

Whether you're 18 or 80, Gods timing is the BEST timing!

  

With Love, Lizzy

Are You A Game Changer?

You must decide what you want and it WILL happen....

In other words, you must know your purpose before it comes into manifestation. So when you decree a thing (make a decision) you then cut things away...

There are things in your life that just don't fit any longer. That season is over. It's been over. You're just refusing to let go! And this why you're frustrated and stressed out. You really think God created you to be stressed out? You've lost your passion for life and passion is the very thing that gives you POWER!

It's not what you hang unto that changes the quality of your life. It's what you cut OUT!
God wants to use you as an agent of change..to advance the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom of God is Gods Royalty, the Rule, and the Realm. When we talk about advancing he Kingdom of God, it's not just some lofty word. He has given us power and authority. He's not just trying to get us to Heaven (that's such a religious mindset) He is trying to bring Heaven here TO earth!

But the question is, do you avail yourself?

Stop asking, " God what can I ask you for today? What can I use you for?" and start asking, "God what can you use ME for today?"

When we allow God to use us to be game changers, we put a smile on His face. I know all about games. I use to play them. A lot of them. Dangerous ones too! I lived more then 20 years of my life playing games. Worldly games and it kept me in bondage. But I have chosen to turn away from the world's fun and games and I am now a game CHANGER for Him. He has equipped me for such a time as this. Ohh what he can do with your sin. Trust me!!

I wake up every morning with purpose...

It's up to YOU to discover YOURS!

Love, Lizzy

How I Discovered My Purpose!

I know 100% I have discovered my primary and secondary purpose and as a result, I am walking out my destiny!

I can recall just 4-5 years ago, when I literally struggled to believe what my propose really was. I mean, I had a feeling that 'speaking' was my calling but those negative thoughts of 'I am not good enough' kept bombarding my mind. I was confused and of course I was living in that 'victim' mode.

I am often asked, "how do you know what your purpose is?"

It wasn't until I started seeing myself as a son of God (a child of God) and understanding who's I was-that I began to see WHO I was. Through out my life, I believed I was called to do many things. I started off by thinking I was a 'Fashion Stylist' and so I worked with many artists as a wardrobe stylist and fashion consultant. I went on to sell products; such as makeup, skin care, clothing, accessories etc. And believe me, the list goes on. I was all over the place. Confused...and no direction or sense of purpose. It wasn't until I began to study the word of God- that I really understood what my purpose was.

You see, when I decided to take a step back and just rediscover who I really was and why I was created, it was in that moment that I realized-outside of KNOWING God, I was nothing... and outside of God, nothing really mattered. Everything I had started, I couldn't finish. Everything I thought I was suppose to do-was total opposite of what I was called to do. It was all apart of what God was calling me to do, but it wasn't the THING I was born and created to do.

Yes, today, I use my fashion sense to do what I do because it's apart of my branding and marketing BUT it isn't what God called me to do. I know this because even while I was in that scene and phase in my life- there was still a void. I still felt empty. Everything I did (business wise) was what my flesh desired NOT my spirit. So I had to make up my mind to surrender to God! I had to stop the 'doing' and just BE!

In doing so, I had to first heal! I was broken and needed a whole lot of healing. In healing, I realized and discovered a deep desire to heal others. I did not call that desire upon myself. God Himself called me to do so. Through many visions and dreams He called me to do what I do today. BUT!!!! There was a process. Ohhhh there was a process!!!

I had to prepare myself for the journey and in doing so I had to be willing to go through the process. Let me tell you, the process was not easy. When I say this, what I am saying is that I had to unlearn everything I learned. I had to be willing to do it God's way...because no other way worked!

Only through knowing God, I discovered my secondary purpose. My primary purpose was KNOWING Him. Apart from knowing God, our thoughts and desires are based off of flesh. And so everything I thought I was suppose to do, was what my 'flesh' wanted to do NOT what God called me to do. And the only way to know what it was that God called me to do, I had to first KNOW God. My Father, my creator, my sustainer, my provider!

I felt this deep desire to serve girls and to use my story in service of my community. I was confused as to how to go about using my voice BUT He gave me the tools to do so. It was the one thing I had tried that for some reason came with ease. Everything I needed to fulfill this calling- was and is available to me. After all, He called me to do this-so He will make it possible.

This is how I know that I have discovered my purpose. I first found Him and in Him, I have healed and I am whole. In knowing God, I have come to know who I AM and what I am called to do! But I was first called to KNOW Him. To live in Him and allow Him to live in ME!

It's not 'me' doing anything but it's what I see my Father (God) doing through me.

There is no better feeling than knowing that I am putting a smile on my daddies face! Abba!

Love, Lizzy

Why You So Afraid of Success?

Something on my heart....

Sometimes the very 'thing' you're so afraid to do or try is the very 'thing' that will change your life and the world around you-FOREVER!

I was 12 years old when I actually decided without a doubt that 'one day' I would write a book about my life. Like, I mean I literally told my library teacher (Mrs. Hayes) that I was going to write a book about my story. She asked me 'oh why do you want to do that? What will it be about Elizabeth?"
I answered, "I want to help girls who are being abused and who don't like themselves. I want to tell them to be strong and don't let anyone hurt them or abuse them" Little did she know....at the time, I did NOT like myself one bit!

Little did I know what the next 15-20 years of my life were going to look like.

As the years went on and I experienced more pain, abuse, shame, self inflicted emotional drama, neglect and abandonment, I realized more and more that I was going to ONE day write a life changing book / memoir for women and girls- on the affects of abuse (emotionally, sexually, mentally and physically). But I was so afraid. I was afraid of letting out my secrets. I was afraid of telling 'my' truth. I was afraid of exposing those who abused me. I was afraid of telling the world about the places I'd been, things I'd done, toxic choices I made and the alleys they brought me threw. I was afraid of being vulnerable and most importantly, I was afraid of freedom. I had being life as a prisoner my entire life and I was scared to death of FREEDOM. Kind of like a man standing in his jail cell the day he is about to be released after doing 15-20 years behind bars. It was nerve wrecking and scary to face the UNKNOWN.

I started writing that book when I was 33 years 'young' but I came up with the title at 18 'If You Played In My Playground'

Writing it alone was the longest emotional rollercoaster ride I had ever been on. I laughed and I cried. I laughed and I cried. I had to dig up memories of my childhood that made me lock myself in a room -alone- and ball my eyes out for hours at a time. I had to go back and stand face to face with 'my story' in the deepest way you can ever imagine. And this hurt sooo bad. There were moments I had to put my pencil down and just feel the memory. Go back to the moment of that memory and really just 'be still' in it; in order to deal with the emotional aspect of it- that I NEVER dealt with as a child. I will NOT sugar coat this in any way. It hurt mannnn. I fought to go back there because my entire life I was a RUNNER. The moment I got to run away from my 'home' I became a runner. If something hurt bad enough, I ran! Because I had wanted to run ever since I was 6 years old so the moment I got to do it- I mastered it.

The truth is, I did not want to write my dark secrets in that book. It didn't feel good at FIRST! I was so cautious of what the world would think of me and I thought by writing the book I would go back to live in that place of darkness again. Ohhh was I wrong!

I had the entire book pretty much written and put down for months. Again, afraid of the world. The moment I was able to speak to my sister after my brain surgery (December 2011), I said to her, "Sue I am going to publish the book mama. If I had died, nobody would've known the real Liz" It was a true AHA moment for me.

I had to come face to face with death in order to discover my true purpose in this world. I didn't think for one second or worry for one second (after surgery) what 'others' would think of my TRUTH. Because I knew God Himself gave me that vision when I was 12 years old and I knew that He did so because He could trust ME to bring it to life. To bring MY life back to life.

Today, through that book, through 'my story' I empower the lives of disadvantaged and disenfranchised girls and woman who have been afflicted by challenging family of social circumstances. Today, because of the freedom I stand and live in, I inspire girls to live each day recreating who they desire to be, therefore enhancing their quality of living and becoming leaders of their OWN future.

The very thing I was so afraid of was MY PURPOSE!

Whatever your 'thing' is, I am begging you to just DO IT! You're feeling that push because it was given to YOU! If you do not bring that vision to life, you will be held responsible for it. That 'thing' is your purpose tugging at you, screaming at you, calling to YOU! Shut out the world and lock into your calling.

Go ahead, 'it's' calling YOU!

Love, Lizzy

Who Are You vs Who You Are Not

Have you ever had to introduce yourself in a workshop or classroom setting? Ok, so you know how it is, everyone gets up when it's their turn to speak and they say their name and tell everyone in the class something or a few things to describe who they are. Something like this, "Hi my name is Sandra. I am a mother. I am a nurse. I have 3 children and I love dogs." Well, I don't do it like that-anymore. I use to until I experienced an AHA moment about 2 years ago-while introducing myself.

I got up to tell the classroom who I was and instead of doing the 'norm' I did something a little different. I got to sit there and listen to about 17 people introduce themselves and then I went last. But I sat there in aw as everyone followed the exact same pattern. Everyone shared their occupation. How many children or pets they had. If they were married or divorced and hobbies. I got up and said something like this:

"Hello everyone. I am so excited to be here with you all. Well, Elizabeth is the name my father gave me. He named me after Mary's cousin-in the bible. He never explained why, but I get it now and personally think it's a beautiful name. I am kind. I am a giver. I am compassionate. I am welcoming. I can be very silly. I am passionate about empowering women and youth. I am courageous. I am a go getter. I love LOVE and I am loyal....." I probably said a few more things. But it went a little something like that. Let me tell you, the look on everyone's face was priceless. They were waiting for more but at the same time they were totally intrigued. I then said, "oohhh and God has given me the awesome privilege of giving birth to two rock star boys whom I personally feel are the coolest kids in the world"

One woman spoke out and asked, " ummm can we do this all over again?" And the entire class laughed.

Please get this clear, you are not your occupation. You are not your marital status. You are not how many kids you have or don't have. You are not broken. You are not a victim. You are NOT the titles you wear or have been given. You are not your name.

The next time you are asked to introduce yourself to a classroom or group setting, tell them who YOU ARE!

I have created a small list here for you to read and pick out a few words that resonate with you. You may also add to this list. Print it out, circle or highlight the words that best describe YOU.

Which of these traits do you possess and value:

• Kind
• Dependable
• Great Listener
• Energetic
• A child of God
• A woman of God
• A believer
• A woman / man of faith
• Funny
• Open
• Self-aware
• World changer
• Compassionate
• A giver
• A problem solver
• Grateful
• Humble
• Happy
• Warm
• Trustworthy
• Responsible
• Sympathetic
• Lifelong Learner
• Sociable
• Strong
• Courageous
• Committed
• Loyal
• Empathic
• Confident
• Self Assured
• Romantic
• Optimistic

These are just a few. Go ahead and add your own.

P.S
Tell yourself:

I Found God When I Lost My Religion

I struggled for many years not knowing the difference between religion and God. I mean, I knew what I felt during worship and while praying. I knew God was real and present and spoke to me often. But then I was confused by all the 'rules' the church folk often spoke of. Like how women aren't suppose to wear pants and it's not right to wear jewelry and our hair / head must be covered while in worship. I mean I can go and on. That was the part that really confused me. I knew deep down inside that all of this had absolutely nothing to do with God.

God is simple.

The world has God trapped up in a box and this is why the 'church' (the people) are suffering and confused. I was one of them- so I know.

It took some time but God was awesome enough, as He's always been, to send a man into my life to teach me about the true living God. My pastor ( Boby Somers ). He did so by opening up my heart to the Kingdom message:
Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and ALL these things will be added unto you -Matthew 6:33

The message that transformed my life in every aspect. All these years, the church spoke about serving God in order to get to Heaven...to paradise. And I swore they spoke more about getting there- then they did about experiencing God here on earth-while still alive. But what I needed at the time, while broken, confused, hurt, angry, in debt, depressed and ready to give up on God, was something more. I needed to discover what my purpose was and why I was here. I needed to heal. I needed to know what to do with all my pain. I needed to forgive. I needed joy, love and peace. I wanted a discipline to pattern my life by. What I was getting for so many years was NOT that at all. I was identifying myself with a denomination- NOT God. How could I represent God if I am identifying with something (religion) that has nothing to do with Him or who He is or even what He created. Identifying with God liberated me to live in the order He requires me to live in. In total freedom where I can function from a place of purpose.

Religion promised me something that 'it' could never give me.

God promised me LIFE and He gave it to me; free from pain, confusion, drama, pain, depression and unforgiveness.

Through my pastor's teachings and the word of God (the bible), I was able to completely transform my mindset. Through the kingdom message, I received peace of mind. I began to understand who I was because I knew Who's I was. I am a King, therefore I am suppose to live like a king.

I received healing in areas of my life- I had no idea needed healing. I discovered my purpose through my pain and wanted nothing more then to spread His love and light in the world. Each and every day was and has been beautiful.

Kingdom living is LIFE. The Kingdom of God is not a place. It is within us. Each of us. When we live the way we ought to live, the same pattern that Jesus lived His life, all things will be added unto us.

I welcome you to watch this short video clip describing 'Kingdom Living Now' Please watch and listen with an open heart. Shut out the negative thoughts and noise. Be still... because I promise you-this has nothing to do with religion.

Religion is bondage and that is exactly where I was coming from. Today, I am healed and delivered. My only purpose in life is to serve Him. Because through Him, I am able to do all that I do-with a smile on my heart. Only God!

Kingdom Living Now

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How's Your Heart?

While today was another fantastic day filled with love, laughter, growth, new friendships and bonds, I had quite an AHA moment- in a moment. Don't you just love those?

I came home this evening, got settled in and took out my paper and pen to write in my journal and out of what I wrote I came up with a blog post.

I asked myself, "Lizzy how is your heart?" I opened my Word (bible) and began to search for scriptures that speak of 'the heart'.

I came across Proverbs 4:20-27: 'Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.'

We, especially women, are so quick to keep our homes spick and span, our clothes ironed, our cars smelling sweet and our hair and nails done! But how much attention do we give our hearts? Like really?

When the bible says that the heart is to be guarded because everything flows from it, it means that it is from our hearts that the rest of our attitudes get their cue. Feeling depressed? Stressed? Frustrated? Check the contentment quotient of your heart. Once we really check our hearts we know why things are happening in our lives- the way they do.

Rather than cleaning up the other parts of our lives, we'd be wise to pay attention to the deeper parts of ourselves. Our minds. Our hearts. Our words. By running a vacuum through a few ventricles, we may discover a layer of jealousy, anger or envy that we've stuffed out of sight. When it comes to cleaning up, most people stick the surface; what others can see with their eyes.

There's no use to try and trick the world by putting on a happy face and a fake positive attitude in public for others to see, if our hearts are stuffed with hidden issues. What's cluttered in our hearts will eventually spill over into our daily lives with our friends, children, co-workers, neighbours and God!

Yes your house looks good and ready for a gathering, but how's your heart?

Lizzy



































































































































































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Love Is Not Jealous Or Boastful Or Proud

1 Corinthians 13:4 tells us clearly what love is and what it is NOT.

If we want our lives to increase and get better than we need to help improve somebody else's life. When we help others to become successful, God will make sure that we become successful.

Believe me, when you recognize people as assignments- everything changes. If God is putting someone's needs in YOUR care, than I want you for a moment to think of how special you must be to God. Because every person that comes into contact with you- with a need (emotional, mental or spiritual) is Gods child, and for Him to give you that responsibility, than He knows 1. You can handle the assignment and 2. He trusts you will care for Him/ Her. We are all assignments to one another. Some are just for a season, a reason and others you will grow old with. Whether it is family (blood related) or not. 

Most people will not reach their full potential without somebody else believing in them. That means you and I have an assignment. Everywhere we go, we should be encouraging others, challenging them to overcome addictions and bad habits. Inspiring them to believe and achieve. Our lives must be a walking testimony. When people come around us, they are suppose to leave feeling inspired and encouraged to be better.

How many people's lives are you inspiring today? Is there at least ONE person you know that you can encourage and empower to reach new heights? Do others feel joy while in your presence? Would you want a friend like yourself?

Take time to make a difference. Don't judge people for their past and keep them captive for things they've done. We all have a past. Some of us, many of us, aren't even healed from that past but yet we're so quick to point in the other direction. Know who you are and know your role.

Every morning before my feet touch the floor, I lay in my bed and thank God for waking me up and then I tell Him, "Lord, use me today. Whatever you need me to do today for someone else, I surrender to your Will" Then I normally end off my prayer by saying, "Whatever is in my life that is not of You, remove it. Make me a better person today than I was yesterday."

Remember, you have something to offer this world and others- that no one else can give.

Love, Lizzy

He Saw Me Before I Was Born

 

'You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.' - Psalm 139:16

 

I believe what most of us fail to realize is that God could care less what we look like externally. Our external appearance means nothing to Him. It doesn't even matter how many weaknesses we have. We were all made in His image; meaning we are perfect. We all come from a long line of perfection.

 

From day one, just like Daniel who spent an entire night in a lion's den unharmed, divine protection flows through your bloodline. Just like Nehemiah who built the walls of Jerusalem when all the odds were against him, I made it through 'my playground' when everything around me was crumbling to pieces. Yes that's my Father's bloodline. Resilience and persistence.

 

You're unique and you are not ordinary. Despite what you're going through in this moment or what you've been through in the past, He knows you by your name and there is purpose in your pain. Inside of each of us-flows the blood of a winner.

 

You and I are winners. Yes we are! Don't think for a moment that you're being punished for something or that you have what people call 'bad luck' because there is no such thing. It's called purpose. Your blueprint was designed before you were conceived and you're going to have to go through things to get to your final destination. Discovering and fulfilling your purpose takes work and focus. Above all it takes FAITH! Believe and you WILL achieve and receive.

 

Don't rush to get to the final destination when you still gotta go through the growing stages. Remember when David said, "God, all of my days you ordained before one of them came to be" In other words, no matter what age you're at, God has been working on you for a long time. From day one.

 

You've been destined to be a winner. To overcome. To build a legacy and leave your mark in this world.

 

Love, Lizzy

How to Lighten Your Heart

Over the past couple of months I have tried my hardest to practice 'mindfulness' to a deeper degree. Although I felt as if I understood what it meant to be mindful, I in fact did not. I challenged myself to a 30 day gratitude journal this month and today is day 16. Well, this challenge has opened my eyes to just how mindful we tend NOT to be. Believe me, when we become more aware of being mindful in every moment, everything suddenly becomes love. Everything is peace. Everything is growth. It's a beautiful feeling.


Mindfulness is being aware of yourself, others and your surroundings 'in' the moment.

When we consciously focus awareness on our lives as it unfolds moment by moment, we are able to take in and appreciate each experience. And the bonus is, when we do so, it gives us the opportunity to change painful or negative feelings quickly. Believe me-it works.

In my most deepest 'mindful' moments, I feel the presence of God all over me. It's absolutely  amazing to be in that space.

Like how often do we really pay attention? Usually when someone is speaking, we're unable to pay attention because were busy trying to think of what we want to say next or on the other hand we're constantly jumping in. I am at fault for this and it has to do with childhood experiences. Not being heard as a child- so we bring that into our friendships and relationships as an adult. But I've learned through my relationship with my kids; that almost every person to whom we pay close attention gains immediate value in our hears and minds. Truly listening to someone and 'hearing' them, adds depth to the relationship. Whether it's a child or a stranger.

Imagine if athletes did not stay present while playing sports? It would be a matter of life and death.

Paying attention results in valuing and enjoying what you're paying attention too. It often leads to living them more fully. Seeing others as God sees them. No matter what. When you practice mindfulness, your heart WILL be lightened.

Love, Lizzy

Is Quitting An Option?

 

I gotta tell you, what I love most about what I do, is that I get to use my pain to serve the world. What a gift..

 

But for me, life wasn't always this way. Growing up as a young child I couldn't see past my pain and couldn't even imagine a future. I often prayed and asked God to get me out of that pain so that He can use me but I barely understood what that meant. But I do know that I wanted Him to use me to make this world a better place for other girls who like me; were hopeless. I knew deep within my soul, that I was born with a purpose and one day I'd be free.

 

Today, I have discovered my purpose ON purpose.

 

How did this happen? Well, faith the size of a mustard seed- like this one seen in the picture below, is ALL you need.

 

 

All of the legends and hero's that you look up too and admire discovered their purpose in their own pain. People like:

 

Michael Jordon who got cut off his high school basketball team.

 

Walt Disney was fired as a newspaper editor because he lacked imagination and had no good ideas (mind blowing huh).

 

Jerry Seinfeld was booed off stage many times.

 

Oprah was continuously rejected, born into poverty, sexually abused and was told many times she was unfit for TV.

 

Steven Spielberg got rejected from film school three times.

 

Thomas Edison was told by his teachers that he was "too stupid to learn anything" and he went on to invent world-changing devices- like the electrical lamp.

 

Vera Wang failed to make the U.S Olympic figure skating team. She went on to become the editor at Vogue and was passed over the editor in Chief position.

 

Yes they were embarrassed and shut down, but look, they didn't make it because they had riches, that came long after. They became successful because they knew and understood that there was purpose in their pain. They refused to quit. Quitting never became an option for them. Did it cross their mind? uggg yeah I am sure it did. But they were determined to build a legacy.

Some of the greatest authors were rejected over 1000 times. Like, Theodor Seuss Geisel better known as Dr.Seus- who had his first book rejected by 27 publishers. He went on to become a legendary author for world classics like 'The Cat In the Hat' and 'Green Eggs and Ham'.

 

So yes rejection comes and yes it's not a good feeling, but it's apart of your journey. Their lessons that we absolutely need.

 

You will do what you have been born and called to do. Stop trying to be somebody else because everyone else is already taken. Your job right now is to set yourself FREE.

 

When you're not focused on what that 'purpose' is or what your passions are, you will get caught up. You will get pulled into things and people that have nothing to do with your purpose.

 

What do you have to let go of TODAY?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



What Are You Rooted In?

Roots make all the difference in the health of a plant, and their presence or absence ultimately becomes known to ALL.

The plant  either flourishes or fails, thrives or dies, blossoms or withers. The health of anything- whether a garden plant or a heart devoted to God- reflects what is going on (or not going on) under ground.

What is first in your life? What is it that you put first-always? Well, for me, it's God. Now don't think I am saying I am perfect here- I am not saying that- YET. I know I can be though but I am not there yet. I believe we need to develop a root system anchored deep in Him. Just like a plant with it's roots hidden under ground, you and I out of the public view and alone- are to draw from Him all that we need to discover our purpose and live this abundant life He has promised us (John 10:10).

As we seek a deeper life and love in Christ, we discover facts about our roots.

Our roots are unseen. Our spiritual roots are underground and invisible to our friends, family and others. Our desire is make those roots strong and fruitful.

Our life's primary purpose should be to want what others see of our lives- the public parts of it- to stir up awe and curiosity. Our integrity and strength in public should be explained  by what goes on in private between us and God. If we nurture what we are grounded in, people will marvel at what they see of God in us. They will desire whatever it is we are carrying and more of it. Everyone is attracted to light, and that is what you become, the light of the world.

Now this doesn't mean having the Martha Spirit. Being busy doing doing doing.... even if it means doing Gods work and being busy with ministry duties. This is being too busy-period. Whether it's ministry or work or family duties. I am sometimes- too often-guilty of this.

The truth is, the more time we spend in intimate study and worship, the greater the effectiveness, the power of your life that shows.

We've got to be still and be alone. You cannot be surrounded by people ALL the time and be as effective. In order that our roots grow deep in Him, God calls us away from the world. When we spend that time with God, we are able to hear His voice- clearly and more than the voice of others. This is where He makes the impossible-POSSIBLE!

Jeremiah 17:7-8 tells us that the person who trusts in the Lord shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out it's roots by the rivers. Can you imagine having roots collecting life-giving waters...and the qualities one would exhibit...?

My pray for you is that you (and I) will bear fruit faithfully! That you will be like a tree of life-producing in and even out of season.

When we develop this strong root system, no matter what may come our way, what trials or crisis we may face, we WILL have the strength needed to stand firm in spite of the pressure.

Own Your Story!

Let me the first to tell you, that owning and sharing your story is going to be a huge part of your healing.

It happened. It was real. It happened and you've got to feel the emotions and share them Now!! I didn't say "dwell on them" - share them and then let it go.

Share your story with someone who deserves to hear it. Someone whom you can count on to respond with compassion. Shame hates being shared. It hates it because 'shame' cannot survive being shared. It's no longer alive when it's shared. It loves secrecy. It manifests into anger, guilt and depression when it's kept a secret. The most dangerous thing to do- is hide your story. It's crippling.

Hiding my story is what led me to make most of the negative choices I made. It's what kept me living in guilt. You've got to be brave. You've got to talk NOW!

But here is the thing about sharing and letting it out; you can't just talk to anyone and you shouldn't. You've got to reach out to someone who you KNOW 100% is filled with true compassion for life, for others and for the world. It's hard to share a 'shame' story with someone who is still living in their own 'shame' story. If you're looking to heal and get past your shame then reach out to someone who is deeply rooted. This person will be open to listen and not judge. This person should be one who will listen and then share her own vulnerability stories. This will also be a person who won't feel sorry for you, rather she will empower and uplift you. She will walk you through your emotions and ensure you that tomorrow is and will be a better day. She will not entertain a pitty party with you. That's not compassion.

You've got to be courageous. You've got to reach out and ask for help. I see courage in myself all the time. When I open up to students and women from all walks of life; willing to be vulnerable enough to share my faults and the life choices I made that held me captive in my own frame of mind.

The less you talk about - what you call and think is your 'shame story' is the more that story of yours has control over you. Shame is the fear of being 'un-lovable' - it's the complete opposite of feeling worthy and owning our story.

Shame is all about fear.

Today, I challenge you to take off the mask and be YOU. Whoever that is, dig down and find her. Let people know who you are and what your story is. Your story is your power, Embrace it. Love it and share it. The world needs YOUR story!

Do What Feels Right!

For most of us, as children, we had no idea what we wanted to be or do when we got "big" enough to do something. I know for myself I knew that there was more to my life than the pain I was living in, but I had no idea what I would end up being or doing as I got older.

Many people ask me, "Liz how do I find my purpose?"

The only way to know what to do in life is to pay attention to the life you're living right now. You can't be listening to others regarding your purpose. You've got to "BE STILL" in order to listen and hear the voice of God for direction. He will always direct you to your passion. Whatever you end up doing is going to be something you WILL be passionate about. If you believe there is something more to your life than the one you're living, than you've got to listen to your spirit and be guided by that- NOT people. Set yourself apart for some time to figure it out. How much alone time are you spending with YOU?

You deserve and are worthy to live a life filled with passion and purpose. The reason you are here-living- is to figure out what that calling, that purpose is. Everything that happens to you in life is a lesson and everyone you meet is a teacher. Even if you're partner has cheated on you, or your child is locked up in prison, maybe you're in a dead end job...whatever is happening is there to teach you something. Your job is to pay attention.

If you've already discovered what your calling is but you're struggling with receiving it or starting that first project, then you've got to start living and walking in it. Write it out, see it and than move in the direction of working towards it. It all starts with that idea and then the first step you take to bring that idea to life. You will NOT fail if it is indeed your passion. I am not saying it will be easy. But easy is not an option. Easy come- easy go. Come on, we've all heard that saying before.

What do you believe? Because you WILL manifest the life you believe. All it takes is faith the size of a mustard seed. That's all. Have you ever seen a mustard seed? Well, take a look at this mustard seed (below), study it and realize how tiny it is. Now if that's all you need to bring your visions and dreams to life, than it's time to get up and start moving.

'Life Inside of Me' With Suzie Correia Rego

 

Are You Being Used?

What I love most about what I do, is that like Martin Luther King, I get to use my pain to serve the world.

But it wasn’t always like this. Once upon a time, I couldn’t see past my pain.

Growing up in the projects in an extremely abusive household, my constant prayer was, “God, when you get me out of here, and I know you will, use me. Just use me to change the world. To bring healing to hurting girls like me. Use me God. I don’t know what my future holds but I know there’s a vision for my life that is greater than my pain. I don’t know what it is- I just ask that you use me.”

May years later, that dream, that prayer brought me to start The D.e.v.a In You Group- a self development and leadership company for women and girls at risk. At risk of what, you ask? In my eyes, all girls are at risk. At risk of dropping out of school, getting pregnant if their having sex, doing drugs, getting their heart broken, being abused mentally-emotionally or physically or just falling into the wrong crowds. Like many girls and women, as a teenager in and out of foster care; running the streets, I questioned my ability to survive. But each time I thought of giving up (for a few seconds), I reminded myself of what I knew God had in store for me, once I was able to heal. I may have struggled to see how that healing would take place, but I knew it would- one day. I was able to find resilience in my darkest moments because I had faith the size of a mustard seed.

Failure for me became a new opportunity to begin again, only each time- I became wiser. I knew that in order to be used, I needed to stop bleeding. Leading while bleeding was not an option for me. I needed to get through my own “stuff” before God could show me what He was going to use me to do. I was fighting the pain when the very pain I was fighting was bringing me to the front door of my purpose.

Through my pain, I made it my mission to ensure people everywhere have the opportunity to live up to their God given potential. I never quite understood the power of my pain. I saw it as a negative thing so I couldn’t look past it. I never imagined it would be my very weapon and tool for success one day. We all love and highly respect Martin Luther King, but are we forgetting that it was through his pain that he was able to discover and fulfill his purpose.

Once you know what you want to do and what you want to be, that’s it! That’s where it starts. It’s all about perseverance from then on. Yes you will fall. Yes you will experience hurt and failures. It’s apart of growth. It’s apart of success. But as long as you want to be used in this world to bring forth change, peace, love and healing, than YOU CAN!

I had to understand that pain was temporary and that eventually something else would take its place. For instance, purpose! But if you give up, the pain will last forever. Which do you prefer? To live life on purpose or to die with no purpose?

Dream BIG, Think BIG but start small. Start right where you are with what you have because what you have is BIG- it’s your story.

I was putting off my business idea and my movement because I was waiting to be perfect. I was scared of my own potential. I was afraid to come out of my own comfort zone; my story.

All I needed was God. It’s exactly what we all need.

Do you want to be used? Do you have a desire to do more? To give back in a bigger way? Than YOU CAN! Start right where you are.

 

My Story Is Also YOUR Story!

Join me at my Chapters Woodbridge Book Signing

 

Saturday January 17th

11:00am-4:00pm

 

3900 Highway 7 - and Weston Road #1

 

 

 

Elizabeth Correia came from a toxic 'Playground' and has arrived at a life filled with Faith, Forgiveness and Courage.

"This is my life, this is my journey and I am grateful for the opportunity to share it with you. This is my liberation; I am FREE!" - Elizabeth Correia

 

If you missed it, here is my latest TV interview with Rogers Cable 10

Listen in while Raquel and I discuss sexual violence against women and girls:

Rogers Cable 10 Television Interview With Elizabeth Correia