It is awesome to really know that I am in the very place that the Lord wants me to be in. Without question, I have had my time of testing. Now this is the time of trusting. Trusting in the Lord with all my heart, leaning not to my own understanding.
A good friend remarked to me recently that she did not know how I did it. It, that is, raise three children by myself and put them all through school. That's just the thing, I did not do "it". The Lord moved through me to accomplish his will for my life. Enough said.
Well my first born is halfway through grad school and will be earning her HOOD in Industrial Design May 30th! Yipee. My "mini-me" will cross those burning sands with a B. S. in Hotel Restaurant Management on May 9th. Praise Him! And the man-child, well he will be attending military junior college in New Mexico. He just got back tonight from ROTC Leaders Training at Fort Knox. Ah what a difference a month makes!
As for me, I began my new post June 18th. I am off to Dallas to conduct a training class on Monday. Lots of travel and training this year.
As I look to the future I am hopeful and prayerful. I am looking forward to saving some funds towards my future personal endeavors, establishing a culinary travel club and culinary school. Also, my hearts desire is to minister to women in this industry. Seeking God's will and being obedient to his statutes. I would love to pour into the lives of women in the food service industry.
Women Chef's and Food Service professional have so much stress, responsibility and personal demands; they often forget to take care of themselves. I want to be here to remind them that placing and keeping God as their "Center" is the first and only commitment that makes a difference.
We often overlook our pain, pressures and mix-up our priorities to achieve what we think is success. We chose to give ourselves away to the wrong causes and the wrong people for all the wrong reasons. The only way to correct this behavior is to surrender. Yes, surrender and submit our stubborn pride and strong will to the one true God, Jesus Christ our Lord. Only then will our burdens be lifted and our hearts become lighter in view of the "ONE" who carries the whole world on HIS shoulders.
I am very excited to have my voice back! Lot's more to come, so stay tuned....
Peace and blessings!
S. Linette Raleigh aka Chef Sheri
