Author: normascott21

Hi, My name is Norma, welcome to my page There are times in life when we go through things that we don't feel like we can share with anyone, maybe because of fear of being misunderstood, or weak or just not supported, so I started this blog to introduce how even as I child, my love of writing, and putting pen to paper has helped me throughout the years, to process thoughts, to put things into perspective, to heal, to release, to vent and to cope while creating a space for change. Although this may not be for everyone, I believe that God has given us all gifts and talents, even if we don't always realize what they are or how to use them. So my hope is that it will help someone as it has helped me, as they go through all the difficulties and challenges that life can bring to tear us down and question our very being. Happy Writing

Work In Progress

Lately, I’ve been thinking about the work we all need to do on ourselves.

So often, we focus on what someone else needs to change. And while it’s true that others may have their own growth to do, we sometimes overlook a powerful truth: real change often begins within us.

We can’t always control what happens to us, but we are fully responsible for how we respond. We are responsible for our healing, our triggers, our growth, and our transformation.

The truth is, we are all a work in progress — and that progress doesn’t end. It is a lifelong journey. As it says in Epistle to the Philippians 1:6, God, who began a good work in us, is faithful to complete it. From moment to moment, He is shaping us — refining, stretching, pruning, and growing us. Teaching us to forgive. To show compassion. To walk in humility. To become better so we can do better.

The work always begins when we look in the mirror.

When we honestly examine ourselves — our reactions, our patterns, our wounds — we begin to see what needs to change. And often, the changes we make within ourselves shift our entire situation. They can change our relationships, our environment, or at the very least, our perspective. And what we cannot change on our own, God can work through us to transform.

We often ask, “When will things change?”
But things begin to change when we change.

Growth is not easy. It requires digging deep. It means confronting uncomfortable emotions. It means acknowledging past pain and recognizing the triggers we carry. It means admitting that we may need to think differently, respond differently, or even seek help. Sometimes that help comes through prayer and surrender. Sometimes it comes through therapy and intentional reflection. Often, it’s both.

Interestingly, the red flags we notice in others can become mirrors. When we see someone avoiding their inner work, it can prompt us to ask: Am I doing mine?

Self-work is not about blame. It’s about responsibility. It’s about recognizing not only what we are carrying internally, but also how it affects the people around us.

Instead of constantly looking outward, let’s start inward.

This doesn’t mean others don’t need to change. It simply means we take ownership of our part. And sometimes, when we do our work faithfully and consistently, it inspires others to begin theirs.

We are all a work in progress.
And that’s not a weakness — it’s grace in motion.

Posted on by normascott21 0

Expectation: Speaking Faith, Growth, and Purpose into the New Year

As I sit and reflect on my expectations for this year and for life in general, I’m reminded of how powerful our expectations truly are. After all, we often receive what we expect — whether good or bad. It may sound too simple to be true, but God confirms it: “You will have what you say” (Mark 11:23).

With that truth in mind, I’m choosing to expect 2026 to be the best year of my life so far.

I’m expecting happiness, joy, and peace like I’ve never experienced before. I expect to be in the right place at the right time, to be healthier than ever, and to walk in obedience so God’s blessings will pursue and overtake me (Deuteronomy 28:2). I’m expecting to grow sharper, wiser, and better every single day.

I expect to meet like-minded people who empower me, challenge me, and help me grow. I’m expecting increased provision beyond what I can imagine. I’m trusting that angels will continue to watch over me and my family in all our coming and going (Psalm 91:11). I’m expecting better communication, deeper understanding, and continual healing from past and present hurts. I expect to both give and receive forgiveness freely, to deepen my relationship with God, and to fulfill His purpose for my life.

I’m expecting to remain grounded no matter the circumstances — to keep perspective, to move forward without looking back, to focus on what I desire rather than what I fear, and to release what I cannot control. I choose to surrender the rest to God and to speak life over my life (Proverbs 18:21).

I’m expecting to be still and allow God to fight the battles I cannot (Exodus 14:14), to receive beauty for ashes and double for every trouble (Isaiah 61:3). Above all, I hold fast to the truth that with God, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26).

My expectations are anchored in faith, guided by gratitude, and strengthened by trust. I step into this year believing that what I speak, nurture, and walk in alignment with will continue to unfold.

Your expectations matter. Align them with truth, intention, and purpose.

Posted on by normascott21 0

Expectation: Speaking Faith, Growth, and Purpose Into the New Year

As I sit and reflect on my expectations for this year and for life in general, I’m reminded of how powerful our expectations truly are. After all, we often receive what we expect — whether good or bad. It may sound too simple to be true, but God confirms it: “You will have what you say” (Mark 11:23).

With that truth in mind, I’m choosing to expect 2026 to be the best year of my life so far.

I’m expecting happiness, joy, and peace like I’ve never experienced before. I expect to be in the right place at the right time, to be healthier than ever, and to walk in obedience so God’s blessings will pursue and overtake me (Deuteronomy 28:2). I’m expecting to grow sharper, wiser, and better every single day.

I expect to meet like-minded people who empower me, challenge me, and help me grow. I’m expecting increased provision beyond what I can imagine. I’m trusting that angels will continue to watch over me and my family in all our coming and going (Psalm 91:11). I’m expecting better communication, deeper understanding, and continual healing from past and present hurts. I expect to both give and receive forgiveness freely, to deepen my relationship with God, and to fulfill His purpose for my life.

I’m expecting to remain grounded no matter the circumstances — to keep perspective, to move forward without looking back, to focus on what I desire rather than what I fear, and to release what I cannot control. I choose to surrender the rest to God and to speak life over my life (Proverbs 18:21).

I’m expecting to be still and allow God to fight the battles I cannot (Exodus 14:14), to receive beauty for ashes and double for every trouble (Isaiah 61:3). Above all, I hold fast to the truth that with God, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26).

My expectations are anchored in faith, guided by gratitude, and strengthened by trust. I step into this year believing that what I speak, nurture, and walk in alignment with will continue to unfold.

Take a moment today to reflect on what you’re speaking over your life — and choose faith over fear.

Posted on by normascott21 0

Choose Wisely, Know Your Worth — and Add Tax

Choosing yourself is an act of wisdom. It protects you from being taken advantage of, taken for granted, or mistreated. It keeps your mind clear when actions don’t align with words and helps you recognize when something simply isn’t right.

Knowing your worth means refusing manipulation, gaslighting, and the quiet confusion that leads us to blame ourselves for the behavior of others. It means not allowing feelings of inferiority—feeling like you’re not enough or that you’re too much. At the same time, it’s not about believing you’re better than anyone else. It’s about standing firmly in who you are and refusing to let anyone or anything convince you otherwise.

When you’re doing the work and you truly know your worth, you stop settling for less than you deserve. You understand that no one can make you feel inferior without your permission, as Eleanor Roosevelt so wisely said. And when someone wants access to your time, energy, or peace, you add tax—because your value comes with a cost.

Setting boundaries, walking away when necessary, forgiving, and choosing happiness despite circumstances leads to a life of fulfillment and joy. It frees you from comparison, competition, grudges, unforgiveness, and hatred. Instead, you get to live as your true, authentic self—unapologetically.

As this New Year begins, I will continue to do the work. I will be thankful for every new day God blesses me with and learn from every test and trial that comes my way. I will continue to choose me—not out of selfishness, but out of necessity—so I can become my best self and be intentional about what I allow into my life.

Peace comes from choosing yourself. It gives you the clarity to choose what is right for you in every area of your life and opens the door for the right people to walk in—those who see your worth and are willing to pay the tax.

Posted on by normascott21 0

Thankfulness

We’ve come once again to the season of Thanksgiving—a time for family gatherings, good food, laughter, fun, and love. For many, it’s a time to celebrate and reflect on the blessings we’ve received throughout the year.

Taking this time to pause and truly think about what we’re thankful for is meaningful. Yet often, the holiday becomes just another day to enjoy turkey, dressing, and all the trimmings. We sometimes forget how many mornings we were blessed to wake up this year, how many breaths we were given, how many dangers we were spared. We made it home safely each day—whether driving, walking, or taking public transportation. We survived sickness, avoided accidents, overcame financial setbacks, kept a roof over our heads, and saw our children and families protected and provided for. All of it—every moment—was by grace and goodness.

But there are also those for whom this year didn’t go as smoothly. If things didn’t work out the way you hoped, as long as you are alive and have breath, there is still much to be thankful for. “The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still” (Exodus 14:14). This means don’t worry, don’t exhaust yourself trying to figure everything out, and don’t dwell on what went wrong. Even in the hardest moments, the battle is not yours alone.

People who are struggling often feel frustrated when told they should still be thankful. What they may not realize is that the person offering that encouragement likely had to go through something themselves. They learned to stand back up—sometimes many times—before they understood the truth of gratitude. So for those who recognize their blessings, and for those who are still searching for them, know this: God is with us and in control, no matter what things look like. “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). He is always working behind the scenes, fighting battles we cannot see. “There is no searching His understanding” (Isaiah 40:28). His ways are not our ways, but His ways are always better—even when we don’t understand.

So in the meantime, we can continue to be thankful—not only at Thanksgiving but every day. Gratitude opens the door for God to move on our behalf.

Be thankful this Thanksgiving, and every day forward in the coming years.

Happy Thanksgiving

Posted on by normascott21 0

The Gift of Correction

“The Lord corrects those He loves, just as a father delights in his child.” — Proverbs 3:12

Correction doesn’t always feel like a gift at first. In fact, it can sting, stir up defensiveness, or make us want to shut down. Recently, I found myself in a conversation where it was pointed out that I wasn’t seeing something clearly in my life. My initial reaction was to grow quiet, wrestling inside with whether there was truth to what I was hearing. Admitting it wasn’t easy. I wanted to defend myself, make excuses, or brush it off altogether. Yet as uncomfortable as it was, I knew deep down this was something I needed to receive, accept, and take responsibility for.

In my case, the correction was about setting boundaries. I had heard this message in different ways before but had not taken it seriously. This conversation served as confirmation that it was time to truly address it.

As I thought about it further, I realized how often I’ve seen others resist correction. Instead of pausing to consider whether there’s any truth to it, many respond with defensiveness, excuses, denial, or even anger. I’ve seen it in families, in friendships, and especially on social media—people so determined to be “right” that they reject correction altogether. Sometimes it’s treated as an offense, as though the very act of bringing something up is crossing a line. Rarely do we stop and ask ourselves if the correction is valid or being offered in love.

But what if we did? What if accepting correction could become the starting point of healing? Imagine relationships that could experience deeper communication, less confusion, and more honesty. Imagine the relief of no longer walking on eggshells to protect someone’s fragile ego and eliminate resentment. Acceptance has the power to free us from denial and open the door to growth.

Scripture reminds us: “My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.” (Proverbs 3:11–12)

Correction, when given in kindness, is not meant to wound us but to guide us. It may reveal blind spots we didn’t realize we had or confirm what we’ve long ignored. It isn’t always comfortable, but when we choose to receive it, correction becomes a gift—an opportunity for growth, healing, and transformation. Just as God corrects those He loves, we can embrace correction as a sign of love and care, a reminder that we are not left to stay the same but invited to become better.

Correction is God’s way of shaping us into who He created us to be.”

Posted on by normascott21 0

The Ripple effect of kindness

Kindness is powerful, yet so often misunderstood. Sometimes we think it means letting people walk all over us, or that it’s weak to respond with grace when someone is rude. But the truth is, as God continually shows us grace, we are called to extend that same grace to others.

When I’m tempted to react harshly, I stop and ask myself: What might this person be going through? The driver who cuts me off, the cashier who snaps at me, or the customer service rep who sounds irritated—any of them could be carrying unseen burdens. They may be grieving, stressed about finances, facing illness, preparing for an important exam, enduring abuse, or silently battling depression. We rarely consider those possibilities in the heat of the moment because we’re too busy feeling offended.

But what if we shifted our perspective? Instead of reacting with anger, what if we prayed for them? What if we offered a smile, a kind word, or simply patience? That single act of kindness could be exactly what they need to feel seen, valued, and loved. Sometimes, it might even be life-saving.

Jesus reminds us in Matthew 5:13:
“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.”

We are called to flavor the world with God’s love. As the saying goes, hurting people hurt people. But when we respond with compassion, we can break that cycle. Even if we don’t see the impact right away, we are planting seeds—seeds of hope, healing, and faith.

At the end of the day, kindness costs us nothing, but it can change everything for someone else.

Posted on by normascott21 0

When It’s Not Okay to Be “Okay”

We all have days when we are not okay. Yet, when someone asks how we’re doing, our automatic response is often, “I’m fine.” Inside, however, we may feel like we’re about to fall apart—on the verge of a breakdown, wanting to scream, run away, or even disappear.

As people—and especially as Christians—we often feel pressure to always appear okay. We may quote a Bible verse instead of admitting our true feelings, believing that honesty about our struggles is a sign of weakness or lack of faith. Because of this, we keep things bottled up, suffocating under the weight of our emotions rather than saying, “I’m exhausted. I’m stressed. I’m overwhelmed. I’m struggling.”

But hiding how we feel does us a disservice. When we open up, we give others the chance to pray for us, support us, and simply empathize with our pain.

The truth is, being vulnerable is not weakness—it’s human. God knows we will face moments when we feel this way. That’s why Jesus says in Matthew 11:28, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” We are not alone in our struggles. Others have felt the same way, and more importantly, God invites us to bring Him our burdens. When we do, He gives us rest, compassion, and understanding.

There is no judgment in admitting we’re not okay. The danger lies in staying there. Scripture reminds us in Psalms 30:5, “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” That morning may take longer to arrive for some than for others, but with God’s help, it will come.

Being “not okay” can even be a signal to pause and evaluate where we may be unbalanced in life:

  • Am I focusing on my circumstances instead of what God says about them?
  • Am I truly resting—not just sleeping, but making time to be still and quiet?
  • Am I letting stress or people control my peace?
  • Am I trying to fix everything myself instead of trusting God’s timing?
  • Am I speaking life, or am I feeding negativity with my words?
  • Am I learning from my situation, or only focusing on the problem?
  • Am I caring for my body—through healthy eating, exercise, and proper rest?

We know ourselves better than anyone—except God. And sometimes, admitting that we’re not okay is the first step toward healing, balance, and restoration.

Posted on by normascott21 0

“Be Still: God’s Invitation to Rest”

Psalm 46:10; Isaiah 30:15; Exodus 14:14; Hebrews 13:5

The Sign in the Store That Stopped Me

I was out shopping the other day, moving quickly through the aisles, when a picture caught my eye: “Be still and know that I am God.” I walked past it—but couldn’t shake it. It felt like the Holy Spirit whispering, You’re going to need this reminder. Often. So I turned around and bought it.

That simple sign exposed something deep in me. I started remembering all the times I did not obey God’s invitation to be still. Instead, I pushed, strategized, worried, lost sleep, and tried to fix things in my own strength. And when my effort didn’t work, I just worried harder—sometimes even after praying, and sometimes without praying at all. No surprise: I wore myself out.

When Prayer Turns Into Panic

Have you ever prayed and then, when nothing changed right away, assumed God was taking too long—or maybe not going to answer at all? We shift from prayer to anxiety, from anxiety to frustration, and sometimes even into anger. In that swirl, we forget God’s promises and start imagining worst‑case outcomes instead of God’s best.

Scripture reminds us: God will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). While we are “waiting on God,” it’s often true that God is waiting on us—to trust Him, to slow down, to stop trying to muscle through what only He can do. Our part is to bring what we can do, and then release what we cannot to the One who sees the whole picture.

Why Stillness Matters

I’m not saying being still is easy. It isn’t. Everything in our culture rewards hustling, fixing, managing, controlling. But striving without surrender rarely speeds things up; more often, it slows what God is forming in us. Stillness is not passivity—it’s active trust.

God is sovereign. He sees what we cannot. Whatever the situation is—He’s got it. Our rest is found in remembering who is in control.

“In quietness and trust shall be your strength.” (Isaiah 30:15)

We may feel like quietness can’t help us, but anxiety and worry certainly don’t.

“The LORD will fight for you; you need only be still.” (Exodus 14:14)

What Does It Mean to “Be Still”?

Being still is more than sitting in silence. It’s a posture: heart surrendered, mind anchored, spirit attentive. Here are some practical ways to practice it.

1. Pause & Breathe Prayer

When worry spikes, stop and take a slow breath. Pray, “Lord, I know You are God. I place this (name it) in Your hands.”

2. Anchor in Scripture

Keep verses where you’ll see them—mirrors, phone lock screen, dashboard, that new wall art you felt led to buy. Let God’s Word interrupt anxious thoughts.

  • Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
  • Isaiah 30:15 – “In quietness and trust shall be your strength.”
  • Exodus 14:14 – “The LORD will fight for you; you need only be still.”
  • Hebrews 13:5 – “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

3. Do What You Can—Release What You Can’t

Make two columns: My Part and God’s Part. Act faithfully on what is yours; pray and release what is His. Revisit the list when anxiety returns.

4. Schedule Stillness

Set aside a daily or weekly time to be with God: read, pray, journal, sit in silence, listen. Consistency trains your heart to settle more quickly when storms come.

5. Ask for Help

Stillness grows in community. Ask a friend to pray with you, check in, or remind you of God’s promises when you start to spiral.

When Life Hurts

Whatever you’re facing—sickness, loss, financial struggle, work pressures, family stress—God invites you to stillness in Him. Stillness does not deny the reality of pain; it anchors us in the greater reality of God’s presence and power.

So today, if you feel overwhelmed, remember that sign in the store—and the God who prompted me to turn around. He’s saying the same to you: Be still. Let Me be God.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, You are God and I am not. I lay down my need to fix what I cannot fix. Teach me to be still, to trust Your timing, and to rest in Your presence. Fight for me where I cannot fight for myself. Thank You that You will never leave me or forsake me. Amen.

What helps you stay still when life feels out of control? I’d love to hear your practices and verses in the comments.

Posted on by normascott21 0

Honoring Fathers – A Father’s Day Reflection

Happy Father’s Day

Proverbs 20:7
“The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him.”

Today, we thank God for all the fathers who have shown up for their children—regardless of the circumstances.

To the fathers who have been present—whether married or not—thank you.
To the fathers who take responsibility, who raise their children with love, strength, and presence—thank you.
To the fathers who lead by example—showing their sons how to be men of honor, how to treat women with respect, and showing their daughters what to look for in a good man—thank you.

To the fathers who stepped into the lives of children who weren’t biologically theirs—stepfathers, mentors, teachers, coaches, pastors—your impact is immeasurable.
To the fathers breaking generational cycles of absence, rewriting the legacy for their families—thank you.
To the fathers who do what needs to be done without placing blame, even when it means raising their children alone—thank you.
To the single fathers grieving the loss of their children’s mother—our hearts are with you.

Thank God for you all. You are seen. You are appreciated. You are vital.

Ephesians 6:4
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”

We also pray for the fathers who were absent.

To the fathers who placed blame instead of taking responsibility—there’s still room for reflection and change.
To those who walked away because the woman they conceived with wasn’t who they imagined as the mother of their child—your child still needed you.
To the fathers who accused the mother of trapping them, not realizing they made that choice too—we pray for your awakening.
To the fathers who avoided child support or mistook financial responsibility as optional—we pray you come to understand the weight and worth of your role. To the fathers wounded by trauma, unsure how to be present—we pray you find healing.

Posted on by normascott21 0