Welcome to the Scattered Gems blog!!

Everyone seeks out and finds hidden treasure. Not literally of course, or we'd all be rich (which would make none of us rich by default.) But everyone searches for things they consider to be of value and add it to their collections. Their perception of "something valuable" can vary. It could be gold, silver, or jewels. It could be a career, a spouse, or a life's dream. In my case, hidden treasures signify wisdom, truth, and purpose. I am always on a quest to enrich myself with things that are wise, true, and purposeful.

One of my favorite Bible verses is found in Proverbs 25:2.

It is the glory of God to conceal a thing:
but the honour of kings is to search out a matter. (KJV)

It is God’s privilege to conceal things
and the king’s privilege to discover them. (NLT)

Discovery is a beautiful thing! Sometimes it happens accidentally, while attending to another matter or searching for something else. Sometimes, you are simply reaping the rewards of the effort you have placed in conducting the search. But the Bible is clear. Though there are things that are hidden which need to be sought out, there is honor and privilege in the journey to discovery.

I believe that the nature of mankind demands to be challenged. Face it, if you get something easily, it probably won't mean that much to you. Things that we acquire easily also tend to be devalued quickly. The "shiny, new thing" phenomenon wears off, and its back to business as usual. But when we earn something, searching and finally finding that payoff, the feeling is so exhilarating that it leaves an imprint on our minds. 

My goal in life is to never stop searching for the things that will make me better. There is never such thing as "too much" wisdom. Your capacity to learn grows as you learn more. "Too much honesty"  can be an excuse for those who do not like to be held accountable. Truth serves as a mirror to help you correct destructive behaviors and reinforces the presence of great qualities you already possess. And in today's world where most actions and interactions are superficial, finding purpose in things, situations, and activities truly makes you wealthy in the things that matter. In purpose, you find a place in the world, a raison d'être. It increases your capacity for greatness, sparks motivation, and provides the patience and longevity to follow through when times are hard. 

These (and other gems) are scattered amongst our life experiences and interactions with others. They're meant to be uncovered with time (and diligence) so that we value them for the treasures they are. That being said, I hope that this blog provides a few "gems" to enrich your life. 

What do you think of when you hear the phrase "hidden treasure"?

Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.
- Matt. 6:21 (NLT)