Ripple Effects...by Laryssa Toomer (Guest Blogger)

     I am privileged to run alongside this beautiful sister in Christ, Laryssa Toomer, on this journey ministering to women and leading them deeper into God’s healing Word.  Laryssa has always been a shining example of a Mighty and Bold woman of God to me.  She’s been one of my greatest encouragers in my walk with writing and pursuing my destiny in Christ.  She is an incredible friend, who keeps things real, simple and amazingly fun.  She is full of wisdom and insights beyond her years.  Laryssa is straight from the Giver of every good and perfect gift.  I introduce to you my friend, homeschool mother of three beautiful children, retired military wife, strong runner/triathlete , Christian Speaker and Free-Lance writer, Laryssa Toomer! 

RIPPLE EFFECTS

Small things count. They really do.

Too often we believe that we have to do something “major” in order to have a major impact. Especially as women, we’re constantly fed media messages that tell us “we’re every woman,” that we can do it all, and that our value and worth are tied to quantity. We attempt to do “big” things in the name of influence, often at the expense of small opportunities that have great impact. I’ve been guilty of these attempts in years past--even in the name of advancing the Kingdom of God--only to feel completely exhausted, overwhelmed, and disillusioned. But that’s when God taught me about the power of small acts and small steps--things that I often overlooked. A vivid picture of the ripple effect comes to mind.

Wikipedia explains the ripple effect as “a term used to describe a situation where, like the ever expanding ripples across water when an object is dropped into it, an effect from an initial state can be followed outwards incrementally.” I especially like this simple, online definition: when one event produces effects which spread and produce further effects, etc. I love this.

One event. Further effects. Extending.

Many times when I’m resting in between laps in the pool, I often tap on the water just so I can watch the ripple effect. I’m fascinated at how one small tap produces effects much further than where I tapped. It reminds me all over again that small things count and often impact in ways that I may not always see. I read a quote that says: “Remember there's no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.”

I encourage you to think about the power of one, simple in the context of your daily activities (home, in the workplace, online, etc.). A smile. An extra hug. A simple “hello.” A phone call or text message. An “I love you.” One-minute prayers throughout the day (versus trying to have marathon sessions). Mulling over one, Bible verse. Practical acts such as greeting the Wal-Mart cashier by her first name. Drinking one less soda. Cleaning out one drawer. These are simple, do-able, and have ripple effects--some reaching further than others...and some that are immeasurable, reaching as far as future generations in our families and in others’.

What act can you do today that would ripple into your life, health, family, someone else’s life, etc.? Please carry on the list in the comments!

Thank you, Laryssa, for taking the time to share with us today your wisdom and insight.  Laryssa is giving away one of her books she is published in called, The Mommy Diaries.  Please leave a comment today and we will enter your name into a drawing for this weekend.

Laryssa often refers to herself a gal who’s been captured by God’s amazing grace, who glories in the Cross of Christ. This retired Army wife is a homeschooling mom loves to teach the Bible, write, and share life together with others (over coffee of course!). She enjoys cooking, participating in endurance sports, and foolishly jumping on the trampoline with her three children. Her greatest joy outside of God is spending time with her husband Jeff, who now serves in vocational ministry as a Site Pastor. Laryssa blogs about life “At Home” over at www.laryssaonline.com. Her speaking site is www.laryssatoomer.com.