A Resilient Heart: My Story of Finding Love and Meaning
Iconic Marriages Intentional Dating Series: The Shift Toward Purposeful Connections in 2025 | Iconic Strategies for Finding Meaning and Love
Good Morning, Icons!
Welcome to our Intentional Dating Series. We hope you are warm and doing well, in life, love, marriage and family. Thank God, we all made it to a new year.
We are continuing to pray for California and send our condolences out to the citizens of that state. We will continue monitoring updates. Also, we are praying for those in the path of the upcoming winter storm. Please prepare your families.
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January Fundraising Goal: $4,200
Dear Icons,
As we kick off the new year, we are excited to announce our January fundraising goal of $4,200, which is part of our larger effort to raise $50,000 in 2025. This month, your contributions will be directed towards some critical areas that will help us achieve our mission of empowering marriages and building strong families across America.
Allocation of Funds:
$1,200 towards our CCM (Conscious Conservative Movement Ministry and Leadership Academy) training by
Coach Felecia Killings
, which is essential for expanding our reach and impact towards federal contracts. My next meeting is this month.
Medical Bills: Supporting ongoing medical expenses as I continue my battle with Crohn's disease like doctors’ appointments, testing and medications.
Free Books to Libraries in Middle Georgia: Providing valuable resources to mothers in our community, helping them build strong and healthy families.
Rewards for Your Support: As a token of our appreciation, we are offering exclusive rewards for our contributors:
A copy of our newly released book, "Mrs. Pinky Cooks": This cookbook shares my culinary journey, from growing up cooking with my mother and grandmother, to feeding my family of 8, and my fellow soldiers in the U.S. Army. It also addresses the challenges of cooking with Crohn's disease, prediabetes, and allergies.
Your support is crucial to our success. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant difference. Together, we can make January a month of progress and positivity as we work towards our 2025 goals.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Let's make 2025 a year of growth, resilience, and love for families across America.
Resilient Hearts: Embracing Intentional Dating in a Modern World
I was talking to my husband about my new Crohn’s diagnosis. I was exhausted after years of fighting PTSD, migraines and other ailments on top of my busy schedule as a writer and homeschooling mom.
He told me that resilience was key. That every new thing we had to face, we would, together. But that deep down, I was a warrior and there was nothing too hard for me to face especially with God and with our family.
It was a response I had come to expect from him, and it was something I needed to hear from time to time. I am in fact human. I get upset, weary, and heartbroken over the way my body is.
Yet, I use resilience to move forward. It not only helps me continue to do my responsibilities, but it helps me not dwell on my disabilities so much. I must take time for self-care, exercises, changing my diet and more but my mental health is impacted by how I view my life and situation.
That transfers in to our love life as well, as I had may ups and downs, I kept believing in love. I kept believing someone was out there for me. Now, that someone, is beside me every step of the way for every curveball life throws my way.
That’s Iconic.
In today's fast-paced world, dating can feel like navigating a labyrinth. With the rise of dating apps, social media, and the ever-changing societal norms, finding true love and meaningful connections can seem daunting. However, embracing resilience and intentional dating can transform this journey into a fulfilling and rewarding experience.
The Importance of Resilience in Dating
Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to change. In the dating world, resilience means not letting rejection or disappointment deter you from your goal of finding a meaningful relationship. It's about staying true to your values and being open to new possibilities.
One ex made me cry through an entire role of toilet paper. I could never count on him for holidays, for help, and not for respect. It was a nightmare that needed to end.
When I finally got the courage to dump him, I knew that I deserved better. That attitude is what kept me open to love and relationships because one person, one failed relationship didn’t define my life.
As relationship expert Tony Robbins says, "It’s not your partner’s responsibility to make you happy. It’s up to you to manage your emotions, regardless of how others behave". This mindset is crucial in maintaining a positive outlook and persevering through the ups and downs of dating.
You must decide that you are going to find love and get after it.
Intentional Dating: A Purposeful Approach
Intentional dating is about approaching relationships with a clear understanding of what you want and being assertive in your decisions. It involves being mindful of your values, goals, and priorities, and making choices that align with them. This approach encourages deeper connections and fosters personal growth.
During this intentional dating series, I want you to recognize that the power for a healthy relationship and then, an iconic marriage, is in your hands. This is not something you fall into and walk around doing whatever your significant others want. Your marriage is a conscious decision, a plan to do this well and right. If that means pushing past insecurities and working to grow up in a healthier manner than your ancestors, so be it.
As author A K Ssekandi writes, "Intentional dating fosters not only personal growth but also authentic connections that stand the test of time".
Biblical Principles and Modern Dating
Biblical principles can provide a strong foundation for intentional dating. The Bible encourages believers to seek God's will first and to guard their hearts. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises us to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight". This guidance can help individuals navigate the complexities of modern dating while staying true to their faith.
With God, all things are possible.
Modern Examples and Entertainment
Celebrities and relationship experts often share their experiences and insights, providing valuable lessons for navigating the dating landscape. For instance, actress Drew Barrymore has been candid about her experiences with online dating, highlighting both the humorous and challenging aspects of finding love in the digital age. Similarly, relationship coach Amy Morin emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for your own happiness and not relying on your partner to fulfill all your emotional needs.
Movies and books also offer valuable perspectives on dating and relationships. Nora Ephron's iconic movie "You've Got Mail" explores the complexities of modern romance through the lens of email exchanges, while books like "The 5 Love Languages" by Gary Chapman provide practical advice for building strong and lasting relationships.
Conclusion
In a world where dating can feel overwhelming, resilience and intentional dating are key to finding true love and meaning in relationships. By staying true to your values, embracing resilience, and approaching dating with intention, you can navigate the modern dating landscape with confidence and purpose. Remember, every setback is an opportunity for growth, and every connection is a step closer to finding the love you deserve.
References:
References
Chapman, G. (1992). The five love languages: How to express heartfelt commitment to your mate. Northfield Publishing.
Cutrona, C. E. (1996). Social support in couples: Marriage as a resource in times of stress. Sage Publications.
Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. Bantam Books.
Gottman, J., & Silver, N. (1999). The seven principles for making marriage work. Three Rivers Press.
Johnson, S. M. (2008). Hold me tight: Seven conversations for a lifetime of love. Little, Brown and Company.
Roberts, N. A., & David, P. (2019). The role of autonomy and intimacy in relationship satisfaction. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 36(2), 1-14.
Siegel, D. J. (2012). The developing mind: How relationships and the brain interact to shape who we are. The Guilford Press.
Stosny, S. (2005). You don't have to take it anymore: Turn your resentful, angry, or emotionally abusive relationship into a compassionate, loving one. Free Press.
Introducing "Dating with Purpose" - Your Ultimate Guide to Intentional Love!
Get ready to elevate your love life with our first-ever hardback dating manual, "Dating with Purpose: Iconic Dating Strategies for Finding Love and Meaning" launching just in time for February 2025. This essential volume is designed to guide singles of all ages toward meaningful, intentional relationships that can pave the way to an iconic marriage.
Packed with expert advice, practical tips, and real-life success stories, "Dating with Purpose" helps you navigate the modern dating landscape with confidence and clarity. Learn how to communicate your intentions, prioritize compatibility, and build a strong foundation for a lasting partnership.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to transform your dating journey and move closer to the iconic marriage you've always dreamed of. "Dating with Purpose" is more than just a manual—it's your trusted companion on the path to love. 💖
Grab your copy this February for $25 eBook or $40 print, and start your journey toward intentional, purposeful connections!
Resilience in Dating
Resilience is an essential quality for singles navigating the often challenging and unpredictable world of modern dating. Here are some additional insights on how resilience can help singles find love and build meaningful relationships:
Embracing Resilience in Dating
Learning from Rejection
Rejection is a natural part of dating, but it doesn't define your worth. Each experience is an opportunity to learn and grow. As Pastor Rick Warren once said, "We are products of our past, but we don’t have to be prisoners of it." Embrace rejection as a steppingstone to finding the right match.
Maintaining a Positive Outlook
Stay optimistic and open to new possibilities. A positive mindset attracts positive outcomes. Philippians 4:8 (NIV) encourages us, "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."
Practicing Self-Care
Taking care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally is crucial for resilience. Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. As relationship expert Esther Perel emphasizes, "The quality of your relationships determines the quality of your life."
Setting Healthy Boundaries
Establish and maintain boundaries that protect your well-being. Boundaries help you stay true to yourself and prevent burnout. Proverbs 4:23 (NIV) advises, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."
Strategies for Resilient Dating
Embrace Authenticity
Be genuine and true to yourself. Authenticity attracts like-minded individuals who appreciate you for who you are. As Brené Brown, author of The Gifts of Imperfection, says, "Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we're supposed to be and embracing who we are."
Stay Open to Learning
View each dating experience as a learning opportunity. Reflect on what you can take away from each interaction and how it can help you grow. Oprah Winfrey once remarked, "Turn your wounds into wisdom."
Develop Emotional Intelligence
Cultivate self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication skills. Emotional intelligence enhances your ability to connect with others and navigate relationships. Daniel Goleman, in his book Emotional Intelligence, highlights how EI can positively impact personal and professional relationships.
Seek Support
Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or a therapist who can provide encouragement and perspective. Community support enhances resilience and helps you stay grounded. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV) reminds us, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up."
Why Dating is Still a Good Option
Despite the complexities of modern dating, it's still a valuable and rewarding experience:
Personal Growth
Dating helps you understand yourself better and develop important life skills. Each interaction contributes to your personal growth and self-awareness.
Building Connections
Dating provides opportunities to meet diverse people and build meaningful connections. These relationships, whether romantic or platonic, enrich your life.
Finding Love
Intentional and resilient dating increases your chances of finding a compatible partner. Love is a profound and enriching experience that enhances your overall well-being.
Experiencing Joy
Dating can be fun and exciting. Embrace the journey and enjoy the experiences along the way. Love and laughter go hand in hand.
By embracing resilience and approaching dating with intention, singles can navigate the modern dating landscape with confidence and purpose. Remember, finding true love is a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and a resilient heart. Keep faith, stay true to yourself, and trust that the right person will come along in due time.
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