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page The Struggle is Real!! Jesus said, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer, for I have overcome the world” John 16:33 The struggle is real! These were the words spoken by one of my coworkers on a weekend trip to a life coaching conference my job mandated I go on to Atlanta, Georgia, some time ago. She would jokingly and almost condescendingly say, “The struggle is real!” thing in common; and that was that we tend to over pack. Along with our purses and carry-on bags some of us also had suitcases that were bigger than we were. It was the middle of July here in North Carolina. It was hot! Those who chose to sit towards the back of the 13-passenger van quickly realized how much the air conditioning got lost before it could get to them. Fortunately, I managed to secure a seat behind the driver, right behind the air vent where the air was coolest, and I was far enough out of ear shot of having to hear the grumblings of a van full of not so happy ladies. Nine and half hours later, after only two pit stops, we arrived in Atlanta. Wearied, but safe. As I got out of the van I took in the city’s lights that illuminated the night landscape surrounding the - modations. A ball room for parties. Dozens of cozy seating areas bars and a place to plug in for easy internet and recharge access the jacuzzi, if you remembered to bring your swimsuit. For a big By: Eileen M Jackson city, such as this, the hotel was almost an oasis for tranquility and relaxation, quiet and seemingly peaceful. I had been briefed for the past year or so from time to time about the different personalities, behaviors and shenanigans that took place by my now coworkers who took this trip the year before. I found out how some of the members of our team liked to let loose in ways that I had long since been removed from. Little did I know how much it would affect me. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God. For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but think of yourself with sober judgment, according to the measure of faith God has given you.… Romans 12:2-3 Romans chapter 12 verse 2 never had more meaning for me than in what started to happen next. I am by no means a stranger to ungodly behaviors that take place in the world today. Perhaps by my being a light unto those who don’t know Him, the situations, or behaviors that we all encounter may not be so bad or become to offensive. And who am I to judge? I am just supposed to be a light was being attacked in my thinking. I have always been an advocate thinkin” as the saying goes. This weekend was supposed to be a spiritually enlightening experience but as I found myself saturated 46


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