Tag: believe

hope

I Still Believe

Shaun Bradford

Being reminded of my “Why” keeps me hopeful.

I hadn’t looked at all of my Facebook memories until moments ago. Six years ago, I created my social media platform, “Mississippi Thriving.” I posted my official welcome message in December of that year, so you may see me celebrate milestones in February and December.

Here’s what I wrote on this date in 2019 and 2020.

My nephews. Only two of my other babies. I have a lot of them.🥰

In the past six years, I have connected with so many wonderful people who share my same vision for a healthier, brighter, and thriving Mississippi. Although it may feel as if we’ll never see it happen in our lifetimes, I still believe it’s possible.

I must keep hope alive.♥️

Shaun

hope

Hello Sunday

Shaun Bradford

Happy Sunday!☀️

Psalm 118:21–24 (NIV)

21. I will give You thanks, for You answered me; You have become my salvation.

22. The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone;

23. the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes.

24. The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad.

Rejoice!

Today’s a new day, which means there’s still hope for something miraculously wonderful to happen. Never give up hope.

I love you,

Shaun

hope

My Journey With God, No. 66

Shaun Bradford

“Never give up on your dreams. You’re still breathing, so your dreams are still possible.”

When I shared the image and caption above on Instagram and YouTube, I included Yolanda Adams’ song “Never Give Up.” The song says (Lyrics: LyricFind)—

Visions that can change the world 
Trapped inside an ordinary girl 
She looks just like me 
To afraid to dream out loud 

And though it’s set for your idea 
It won’t make sense to everybody 
You need courage now 
If you’re going to persevere 

To fulfill your divine purpose 
You’ve gotta answer when you’re called 
So don’t be afraid to face the world 
Against all odds 

Keep the dream alive don’t let it die, if something deep inside 
Keeps inspiring you to try, don’t stop 
And never give up; don’t ever give up on you 
Don’t give up

When I tell you this last year has been about full-circle moments! Last June, I began serving my second term as president-elect for my state’s dietetics association (the first time was in 2015). Back in November, I was reconnected with someone I wanted to work on a project with ten years ago. Today, we are working on a similar project that’s even better than the one I envisioned. Then, last night, I attended an event and connected with someone who could possibly help me with another project I wanted to work on ten years ago.

Y’all, I had given up on both projects—projects that were part of my dream—but God said not so!

Despite the craziness happening right now, God is still bringing dreams to life. I can’t help but be in awe of Him!

Forever grateful and blessed.♥️

Shaun

hope

Faith

Shaun Bradford

I had the image below saved in my photos. It’s a simple reminder of the magnitude of faith.

Saved on February 20, 2020. Image Credit: Unknown

All you need is a mustard seed size of faith, and mountains will move.♥️

I love you much,

Shaun

hope

My Journey With God, No. 64

Shaun Bradford

Here’s my update on resting in God.

I am finally settling back into a place of rest and peace, a space I found a few years ago and was doing so well in until a few months ago. As they say, you never know how you’ll react to situations until you encounter them. Honestly, I never expected to react the way that I did—basically having an emotional breakdown because of so many negative things that were happening across our nation. I thought I was beyond being bothered in such a way. I kept trying to find my way back to resting in God, but the more negative news I saw and heard, the more defeated I felt. I felt as if my lifelong dream of a peaceful, kind, and loving world had been shattered and was beyond repair. I know it might seem weird to associate my dreams with my hopes for humanity, but for me, they’re connected—we’re connected. What affects one does affect all. Maybe not immediately, but in time it does.

So, what changed?

I began limiting my time on social media, especially X. Since doing so, I’ve noticed life is more peaceful. I had to set boundaries for myself and stick to them. I haven’t missed as much as I thought I would. Whenever I log on, I’m greeted with wonderful news and encouraging posts (the algorithm is finally working in my favor😌). For some reason, I thought I’d miss things if I weren’t tuned in all day. Fortunately, no one has passed. No one’s been hurt. The world is still intact, and so is my mental and emotional health. Isn’t God good?

I must remember God’s in control, and my life is in His hands. I’m covered, and my dreams are still intact. There is still more good in this world than not.❤️ ~ Shaun