Powerful Questions for 2018 . . . Week 7

Let’s see how we respond to the seven questions for week seven of 2018, challenging us with this month’s lifeskill, Time Management. These questions are offered by Bob Tiede at At Leading With Questions, from wisdom leaders around the nation and world.*

*Source: Marc Chernoff’s list of questions,
Thought Provoking Questions to Ask Yourself in 2018.

Powerful Questions for 2018 . . . Week 7

Question 1: Can you think of a time when impossible became possible?

I can think of many times where the impossible became possible. Yet, there is one time I found the possible to really be miraculous. When I became very ill and only 36 years old, I was just beginning my wellness journey. The first years into my recovery my digestive tract and muscle pain were still overwhelming. During those times, I had to blend all my food because the jaw cartilage was almost gone, with bone against bone.

The oral surgeon offered options for adding synthetic cushions in the condyle of each jaw joint. However, the list of surgical risks to nerves and muscles were considerable. I knew while sitting in that office chair, I would say “no thank you” and go home to take a break from doctors for a while. I then had a long chat with God about what was next. That’s when I went in for my regular dental checkup.

My family dentist just came back from more extensive training and equipment specific to myofascial pain disorders. He wanted to try some new techniques on my teeth and jaw. And I said let’s do it. For the first time in my life, I could feel a bite where my top and bottom teeth settled in. He also did some metabolic testing on dental materials and replaced all my amalgam fillings with metabolically compatible ones.

Within a few months strength in my muscles started coming back. Over time, I could chew with little or no pain. My jaw still pops to the right, but who’s complaining! Moles on my back disappeared. My physical and mental energy gained ground. To top it all off, a few years later the oral surgeon asked me to do a television spot on my experience. He said he was glad I turned him down for the surgery. There were all kinds of resulting problems for patients. Again, the miraculous does happen when God’s timing is everything!

Question 2: How do you spend the majority of your free time?Sands of Time

I enjoy the simple things of daily life. I try out a new recipe I concocted, watch one of my favorite tv programs, play dominoes with my family, and visit a friend I haven’t seen for a while.

Question 3: If today was the last day of your life, who would you call and what would you tell them?

I would call my husband, daughters, sister, and best friend. For my husband, I would say thank you for loving me and always being there for me through all the joys and trials of life. For my daughters, I would tell them they have been one of God’s greatest gifts to me. I would ask them to trust and always listen for God’s gentle, still voice directing and encouraging them onward.

I would share with my sister all the good times and challenges we won together. Also, we shall see each other down life’s path on the other side. For my best friend, I would thank her for her wisdom, honesty, and unending support she gave me through the years.

Question 4: If you could go back in time and tell a younger version of yourself one thing, what would you tell?

I would tell myself to have more fun and seek friends who accept you as you are and nurture them in return.

Question 5: What’s been on your mind most lately?

A health challenge and coming victory; and looking forward to having my time, mind, and energy focused on other more enjoyable pursuits.

Question 6: What do you think is worth waiting for?

Anything worthwhile that is part of my life purpose is worth waiting for. Add having my daughters move close to me, that’s for sure!

Question 7: When was the last time you lied? What did you lie about?

Do I really want to confess before the whole world?! At first, of course not! Yet, if all these questions for 2018 are to get us thinking, this one does it. Isn’t there a loophole that says omission isn’t lying, right?! So, either way, I confess when I had an important work deadline I said “Sure, I will easily make the deadline.” Yet, I knew I needed at least another week, even month. I wondered why I avoided telling them the truth and simply ask for a deadline extension.

Thinking back on that time and situation, I guess I didn’t want to disappoint anyone. There was also a bit of pride on my part seeking to impress and prove I could do it. Whether by omission or outright lying, even stretching the truth a little, it all comes back to haunt us, doesn’t it? Hopefully, we gain a life lesson along the way.

Now, it’s your turn again!