Surviving 2012

On December 31, 2012December 31, 2012 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts3 Comments

I can’t believe we are at the doors of a new year. 2012 seemed to have lasted forever. This year has been one of a lot of growth for me, and of course with growth comes a lot of growing pains.

This past year brought me a new opportunity to start over again. I have taken my writing to a new level. Last year when I published Growth Lessons , in my head I knew that this was something that I wanted to do. 2012 taught me that this is what I was called to do and every day I’m more motivated to do even more.

I was given a new start in my health, when I went from being a pre-diabetic morbidly obese woman , to losing 40 pounds and gaining my health back. With my new body still in progress I’ve learned to eat differently, live differently, respect my temple in a total new way. (By the way it’s 60lbs, but the first 20 had been coming down here and there since the previous year until I got serious this past May)Went from a size 24 to a 14. So I have had to shop for clothes, what a drag, right? LOL!

On that note, I am finally using my gym membership. I’ve signed up for dozens of them, paid off the contracts and never went. This time I’m actually using it.

I have a new career path. God changed my 9-5 to remind me that my focus is in him and his purpose. In this new path, that is not so new because I’ve walked it before, I know he’s training me for the day when I’m able to fulfill my dream to be fully dedicated to my writing.

I published my first work of fiction, The Road Home (TRH) and my first novella, Season’s Greetings from Amelia (SGFA) in 2012. These two pieces have brought me many joys. I did 3 book signings for TRH and have received remarkable reviews. SGFA sold 5 copies within the first hour of publication.

I lost my favorite aunt, Juliana. I lost one of my best friends and one of my spiritual mothers moved over 600 miles away.

My 81 year old mother got an IPad for her birthday/Christmas present, got on Facebook and requested a Twitter account. Yes, I can’t get over that one yet, LOL!

As I posted the other day, I’m working hard on getting my next book out hopefully February or early March. I’m looking forward to the opportunity of a new year, a new beginning.

Happy and blessed 2013!!

WF: Lead me Lord

On December 28, 2012December 30, 2012 By Naty MatosIn WorshipLeave a comment

Now that all the presents have been opened, the food has been eaten. We were able to enjoy our holidays or able to survive our most beloved relatives. The point is that Christmas is over, but not the celebration. In the natural world we still have one more holiday to prepare for. In a few days we will be ending the year 2012, and what a year has it been.

In the US, we had to elect a president. We faced with the pain of several inexplicable acts that resulted in the loss of many innocents. And just as the year ends we’re still waiting to see how much more our finances may be depending on the decision of those we’ve given the power to rule over our country.

Although most of us laughed, the reality is that we were all on the edge of our seats to see if something was to happen on the 21st. So for the tenth time in our lifetime we have survived another announcement of the end of the world.

In summary is time to analyze what has been of this year in our lives: financially, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Join me in starting this journey this weekend and on Monday I will share the results of my evaluation of 2012.

The most important part is that God was with me and I know he was with each and every one of you through every milestone of this year. Let’s praise the Lord and meditate in his word so that he can show us the lessons learned in 2012

Remember that I have a contest going for the first one who answers a question regarding my new Novella “Season’s Greetings from Amelia” Check it out by reading the instructions of the giveaway here

By Pooh Bear

I recommend Season’s Greetings from Amelia highly. It was thoughtfully written and entertaining. I really enjoyed it…couldn’t put it down!

Mental Illness is Real

On December 19, 2012December 19, 2012 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts2 Comments

After the events of last week, the conversation about laws regarding access to weapons and mental health have intensified. One of the things that I’ve learned, being involved in the mental health field is that, the stigma of mental health and the issues some people have to access services, influences in having a larger number of untreated people with mental health conditions.

I wrote an article last year regarding “Faith and Mental Health”. One of the things that I’ve encountered as a Christian is that there are people who reject medical care for their mental health symptoms because they feel that it shows a lack of faith or just spiritual problems. I don’t deny that some people may be dealing with spiritual issues that cause their problems, but that doesn’t deny any mental health situations that they may be experiencing.

At the time that I’m writing this, it hasn’t been confirmed that the person who committed the horrible murders in Connecticut had mental health issues. My take on that is this, not all mental health patients are violent. At the same time I don’t think anyone in their right mind would enter a public place to kill innocent people, especially children.

I’ve heard many people saying that this incident is worse because it’s so close to the holidays. Believe it or not, the holidays can be a trigger, for some, unexpected reactions from those dealing with mental illness. The holidays are not a happy time for everyone. The stress of memories of past unpleasant prior holidays, family problems, financial issues, unemployment or something as simple as the weather changes during the winter, can be triggers to increase symptoms on someone with untreated mental illness.

From the spiritual standpoint, I believe that the enemy preys on those weaker during these times to ruin the celebration of the birth of Jesus. He knows he has been defeated and our victory celebration doesn’t sit well with him.

Revelations 12: 9-11

“And the great dragon was thrown down, the ancient serpent, the one who is called the devil and Satan, the one who deceives the whole inhabited earth – he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven saying, “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ, because the accuser of our brothers was thrown down, the one who accuses them before our God day and night. And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life up to death.”

Instead of judging those around you with possible mental illness, educate yourself. There are many mental diagnoses, but the most common ones are depression and anxiety. If you or someone close to you presents these symptoms, seek help or encourage to seek help.

John 14:27

“Peace I leave with you;

my peace I give to you.

Not as the world gives do I give to you.

Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

Please take care of yourselves and each other. Blessings

Get your copy of Season’s Greetings from Amelia. This great novella brings mystery, suspense and the best stocking stuffer for your favorite e-reader. You can get your copy for just 0.99 cents on Kindle, Smashwords and Nook only during the month of December.

Lost of Innocence

On December 17, 2012December 17, 2012 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Last week was a tough one, not only for me but for the whole nation. Thursday night I received a phone call from a very close friend in tears. Her nephew had just committed suicide. I obviously jumped in the car to provide my support. Then the next morning, while I’m trying to shake the emotions from that event, I walked into the break room of my job and saw on the television the news from Connecticut.

I could relate not only at the human level, but at the personal level of the pain and confusion that others were feeling. I could understand how parents felt about answering questions to confused children about the events they witnessed or were made aware of, because the night before I was approached by my friend’s young children with similar questions.
Our children should not have to worry about why someone decides to take their life or someone else’s. Our children should not need to understand the pain of losing a teacher, a brother, a father, a mother or a friend; especially under these horrible circumstances.

We are all looking for a silver lining within the grief. I’ve come to the conclusion that hopelessness is part of the pain of those who commit these acts. They feel like there’s no way to end their pain than to leave this earth and/or hurt others. This has motivated me to continue to do what God has called me to do, to write more and more about the good news of redemption and hope. That there’s always a way out and a solution that doesn’t include more pain.

This has also been a wake up call for me and for so many others of how our lives can change in an instant unexpectedly. It has reminded me to express my gratitude, my appreciation and my love to those around me before it’s too late.
I know the recent events have not only made the children aware of an evil world. It has even place awareness of concern in adults as well. Where are we safe? Thinking as far back as Columbine, I can recall a movie theater, a college campus, several churches, a gym, a mall, several workplaces and now an elementary school, and that’s just off the top of my head. But let’s stand on the Word of God that tells us:

Zechariah 2:5 :And I myself will be a wall of fire around it,’ declares the LORD, ‘and I will be its glory within.’”
Psalm 34:7 “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.”
Psalm 91:2 “I will say [a] of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
Psalm 91:4-5 “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day,”

I ask you today to pray for my friend’s nephew who left behind a wife and two small children. Also pray for all the victims in Connecticut; for those parents, siblings, for the whole community. But also remember to pray for the family of the perpetrator. He left behind a father who lost a son, and a young man who lost his brother and mother. Let’s also pray that God gives our authorities the wisdom to do what needs to be done to avoid these things, whatever that may be.

Hug each other a little tighter today. I appreciate all of you. Be safe. Be blessed.

Get your copy of Season’s Greetings from Amelia. This great novella brings mystery, suspense and the best stocking stuffer for your favorite e-reader. You can get your copy for just 0.99 cents on Kindle,Smashwords and Nook only during the month of December.

WF: One thing remains

On December 7, 2012December 7, 2012 By Naty MatosIn WorshipLeave a comment

I was reading the bible the other day. It’s been a busy week. I’ve had family from out of town to celebrate my mother’s birthday. Of course I never forget about my main love, but have to admit that I have not dedicated as much time or attention as I usually do to my quiet time with God. So this particular morning in my prayer time I was thanking God for his love and for his patience.
Although I know God doesn’t want us in condemnation, I have not been able to grow to the point of not feeling guilty about the times when I don’t spend enough time with God. I have this feeling that I’m ignoring my father, my husband, my love and that he should be my priority.
So that’s why that morning I was thanking him for his patience with me on those days where I’m not the best daughter, his best wife and his best lover. Then I opened the Word and read in Psalm 118:1-4

Thank God because he’s good,

because his love never quits.

Tell the world, Israel,

“His love never quits.”

And you, clan of Aaron, tell the world,

“His love never quits.”

And you who fear God, join in,

“His love never quits”

I felt that it was an answer to my prayer. My love knows my heart. He knows that I am always thinking about him, that I’m always thanking him for how he provides for me in every aspect. For that I’m grateful, for having a love that is really unconditional.
Join me in praising Him with this song that actually talks about how his love never fails and never quits on us.
Blessings

WF: Worship Friday

Also check out my novella “Season’s Greetings from Amelia” This great novella brings mystery, suspense and the best stocking stuffer for your favorite e-reader. You can get your copy for just 0.99 cents on Kindle,Smashwords and Nook only during the month of December.
Book Description
Daisy has the perfect life, beautiful children and a wonderful husband. And Christmas is right around the corner. Tis the season to be jolly… Or is it.
Daisy’s life is flipped upside down by strange letters that are sent to her by her best friend, Amelia. And as her life continues to quickly spiral out of control, she realizes that something BIG is about to happen. Can she put aside her confusion, hurt, and anger in order to solve a mystery that may have a horrific ending????
Can Daisy’s life ever return to normal regardless to whether she does or doesn’t?

How God Speaks…

On December 3, 2012December 3, 2012 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

When I think about the mysterious ways in which God talks to us, it still amazes me. We live in a world moved by drama and scandal, yet we serve a God that is the total opposite. We expect for God to give us billboard signals on what to do or what to say, but it’s in the silence that he will manifest his words.

He utilizes the most random unexpected things to allows us to feel his presence. A song, a flower, a conversation with a friend, or even the correction of a stranger will be utilized by God to get through to us. He knows we can’t handle the large scheme of things.

Think about it, if God was as loud as our entertainment or all the advertisements wouldn’t his message be lost in the noise. Have you ever been watching television and someone talks to you, you respond but you were not completely sure of what they said in the first place. That’s what would happen to us if God was trying to compete with all the noise in our life. Instead he always brings us to a place of peace, rest, and quietness to hear his voice.

He knows that we are stubborn and that sometimes we either don’t understand his message or simply do not want to comply. That’s why his revelation to us it’s a process. Salvation is a decision, conversion is a journey.

I read in Isaiah 28:12-14 the following scripture “God will speak to this people In baby talk, one syllable at a time— and he’ll do it through foreign oppressors. He said before, “This is the time and place to rest, to give rest to the weary. This is the place to lay down your burden.” But they won’t listen.

So God will start over with the simple basics and address them in baby talk, one syllable at a time— “Da, da, da, da, blah, blah, blah, blah. That’s a good little girl, that’s a good little boy.” And like toddlers, they will get up and fall down, get bruised and confused and lost.”

It reminded me when I was finally born again, where I felt lost. I didn’t know what to eat, what to wear, how to speak, how to feel. Reading the bible was vital, but it was not and it is not like reading the manual of how to play a video game. The Word of God is food for the spirit that should be consume daily and constantly because our lives are not a toy, but a purposeful journey.

I’m so happy that God had the patience, and that he still does to speak to me in baby talk, in a way that I can understand his purpose for my life, his instructions and corrections. I’m also glad that when I still stumble and fall, he cleans my face and tries again.

Check out my new release ”Season’s Greetings from Amelia” This great novella brings mystery, suspense and the best stocking stuffer for your favorite e-reader. You can get your copy for just 0.99 cents on Kindle,Smashwords and Nook only during the month of December.

Daisy has the perfect life, beautiful children and a wonderful husband. And Christmas is right around the corner. Tis the season to be jolly… Or is it

Daisy’s life is flipped upside down by strange letters that are sent to her by her best friend, Amelia. And as her life continues to quickly spiral out of control, she realizes that something BIG is about to happen. Can she put aside her confusion, hurt, and anger in order to solve a mystery that may have a horrific ending????

Can Daisy’s life ever return to normal regardless to whether she does or doesn’t?

Seasons Greetings from Amelia (therisingmuse.com)
WF: Me Without You (therisingmuse.com)

WF: Me Without You

On November 30, 2012November 30, 2012 By Naty MatosIn Worship1 Comment

I have to start by saying I love the music of Toby Mac. His songs have spunk and at the same time are so deep.

November was quite a challenging month for me. I was trying to do way too many things at once. I was determined to participate on NaNoWriMo. I was determined to finish my new book, “Season’s Greetings from Amelia”. I was also determined to go to the gym four times a week, all after 8 hours of work, a semi part time job and ministry responsibilities.

One morning, stressed out ( I wonder why?) I was driving and this song came on the radio. Where would I be without you God? Trying to do what I can’t do. Trying to build my kingdom instead of yours. So I stopped, I remember that it was a Saturday afternoon and I chose to do nothing the next day. I had already gone to church service Saturday night and I was having me a date with Jesus.

I didn’t work out, I didn’t write, I didn’t clean that Sunday. All I did was focus on what God needed to tell me. I needed to know what he wanted me to do. I focused on my novella and was able to finish it. The workout thing, I’m not saying that God told me not to do it, let’s say I just skipped it, but I did go for a few walks. I focused on my worship time and in reading more of the Word of God.

Guess what? I was able to do it all, (well except going to the gym, but I still know that was me) The novella launches tomorrow and if I’m diligent I will finish my 50k words before midnight tonight.

Oh God, where would I be without you?

WF: Worship Friday

So join me in worshiping the Lord and enjoy my new novella “Season’s Greetings for Amelia” for just 0.99 cents.

Happy Friday!

Daisy has the perfect life, beautiful children and a wonderful husband. And Christmas is right around the corner. Tis the season to be jolly… Or is it?

Can Daisy’s life ever return to normal regardless to whether she does or doesn’t?

Can being loved truly change someone?

On November 29, 2012November 29, 2012 By Naty MatosIn Writing HappeningsLeave a comment

Can being loved truly change someone?

By Naty Matos

In all kind of relationships we ask ourselves if loving someone would make them change their behavior. Some people try to manipulate, shame, and pressure others to make them behave in a certain way. Others try to serve, love, and support in hopes that the acceptance will make them see the error of their ways. But does it work?

I’ve learned through my life journey that nothing is black or white, and this is one of those areas where there’s a lot of gray involved. I believe that feeling loved can help someone be encourage to do better as long the love is corresponded. Love can also provide the necessary support for someone who wants to make changes in their live but doesn’t have the necessary tools. Loving counsel and guidance could be the key to growth and breakthrough.

But there’s the other side, where love is not received. I believe that you can be loved, but if you don’t receive the love it would have no impact or even can create an unhealthy relationship. People who do not desire to change or accept love will not look for those growth opportunities.

I believe that God’s love can change us. It says in John 3:16
”For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” But even in this scripture says that in order to have eternal life and receive what God has for us we have to believe in him. His love can change us, if we’re open to receive him.

Will love change Amelia’s heart? Will love be sufficient for Daisy to understand, to forgive, and deal with the revelations she has received? Find out in “Season’s Greetings for Amelia” A great novella and a possible stocking stuffer for the mystery/suspense reader in your family, for just $0.99

Daisy has the perfect life, beautiful children and a wonderful husband. And Christmas is right around the corner. Tis the season to be jolly… Or is it.
Daisy’s life is flipped upside down by strange letters that are sent to her by her best friend, Amelia. And as her life continues to spiral quickly out of control, she realizes that something BIG is about to happen. Can she put aside her confusion, hurt, and anger in order to solve a mystery that may have a horrific ending????
Can Daisy’s life ever return to normal if she does or doesn’t?

Careful when praying for light

On November 28, 2012November 28, 2012 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts4 Comments

We all have heard that we should be careful what we ask for because we might get it and it may not be what we have in mind. I’m a nosy person. Friends and family struggle with surprising me because with a minimal clue I am able to figure it out. But I’ve learned that with God things are a little bit different.

Sometimes when someone lies to us or we are in conflict about something, that we can tell that we do not have all the necessary information, we may ask God to reveal to us what’s hidden, but are we ready to handle what will come out?

The Word of God says in 1 Corinthians 4:5 (NIV) “Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. At that time each will receive their praise from God.”

I’ve included this verse in many of my prayers and when things were opened and revealed I was either devastated or astounded by those things that were unknown to me. Now I’m not advocating to stay ignorant. God wants us to walk in truth, wisdom, and freedom.

What I decided to do was to add a little extra to that prayer. Instead of just asking the Lord to reveal what is hidden from me, I’ve also asked him to prepare my heart for those things that may hurt. I ask him to give me wisdom on how to react to the findings and for the peace to deal with it all.

There has never been a time when I’ve asked for revelation of the truth when God has not responded almost immediately, but now I prepare my spirit and my heart for whatever the revelation is.

Do you have an experience where a revelation caught you unprepared and changed your life? I would love to hear it.

Stayed prayed up and be blessed.

Talking about revelations, stay tuned for my new release on December 1st and find out what the letters from Amelia reveal to our main character Daisy Adair.

Putting Thanksgiving into Action

On November 21, 2012November 21, 2012 By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

This year we will not be talking about the turkey, the history of this holiday or the thousands of things we are thankful about. The reality is that this year I want to encourage others to put their true attitude of gratitude to action.

We sit together as families and tell each other how grateful we are of the things we have, the love and company of those near us and just bask in the thought of the gratitude. How about this year you make a decision to be the force behind someone else’s gratitude? Why not share those blessings with others?

So here are some ideas to do just that:

Invite over for dinner those who are away from their families. I used to do that for the longest time. Every one I knew that didn’t have a place to go, were invited to my house. The only reason I stopped doing it was because I don’t have the space to host anymore. It was such a rewarding experience.
Cook a meal for a family in need. If you know someone in your neighborhood who has lost their job, have a family member sick or have struggling, take them a plate or a few plates. You very well know that after two days you’re going to hate turkey anyway. You’ll have less leftovers and you’ll have made someone’s day.
Remember those who have lost everything-It doesn’t matter how big or small your donation is for those recovering from the damages of Hurricane Sandy, any little bit helps. Even if it’s not money, blood donations are also very welcome.
Donate your time and talent. You may not have resources. but you can spend some of your day with someone who needs it. I had a friend who use to spend two hours on these kind of holidays going a children’s hospice. She’s a divorced mom and her children are with their father on Thanksgiving. As a mother she understands that when you have a sick child you don’t want to leave them alone. So she spends Thanksgiving mornings there giving parents an opportunity to go home to take a shower or go get something to eat and then in the afternoon she goes to celebrate with her family.

These are just a few examples of way to give back to others. I am sure you can come up with other ideas as well. What am I going to do to put my gratitude in action?

I’m actually cooking healthy desserts for the place where I’m going to be reuniting with family and friends. I’m grateful that God had shown me a better way to relate to food. I know that as I reunite with some that have not seen me for a while I will be able to witness to them.
I’m donating 50% of all my sales for both of my books Growth Lessons and The Road Home from today until Friday to the Red Cross to help the relief of Hurricane Sandy. (You can help me with that)
I’m joining an initiative of authors in the South that are donating books to libraries in New York and New Jersey, for those who lost the books due to the hurricane Sandy.