Recently I overheard a conversation between two strangers who were expressing their annoyance at reading Facebook status updates that said things like, “I’m so blessed,” “I’m so lucky to be married to my best friend” or “I adore my children.” The person went on to say how fake and disingenuous these people were. I couldn’t help but be saddened by their assumptions. Just because someone was expressing love and joy it meant that they were being untruthful? Why shouldn’t they shout their joy to the world? The bible even says,
Psalm 16:9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices.
Rejoice. That’s what more people should do. Don’t judge those positive speakers because you may not know what is going on in their lives. Perhaps, that mom who is adoring her children is going through a divorce and her children are what is keeping her together. Perhaps, that person saying how blessed they are just lost someone and is realizing the value of life. Perhaps, that lady talking about being married to her best friend just had a miscarriage and her husband is sharing with her this tough time of loss.
Facebook updates, blog posts, Instagram pics…these are all just snapshots of our lives. Allow yourself to rejoice in others happiness without making assumptions. But also try and speak the positive yourself. You may find yourself inspiring and encouraging others and never even know it. And know that I love reading all of your celebrations and I am celebrating with you too.
We recently went out to eat at Bliss in Southtown. It is an amazing culinary masterpiece from Chef Mark Bliss. I thought I’d share my outfit with you. A huge thank you to Daddy Russ for taking the pictures as I know it’s super annoying!
My peplum blouse is from Target. This is my new favorite top right now! You can wear it with skirts, shorts and pants! I’ve literally had this black pencil skirt since like college and can’t remember where it’s from.
My leopard print belt is from Guess.
My bag is Betsey Johnson but I got it at MJM Shoes for like $20!
My cobalt blue heels are Moda Spana from DSW Shoes.
My sunnies were provided to me by Apricot Lane. This “cat eye shape” is really in right now!
This is my sTORI being written as you read. – Love, Mommy Tori
Love your blog today!!!! I have found that through my darkest hours that scripture and my faith in God is the only thing that helps me keep strong. Sometimes I am so moved by what I have read that I feel the need to share, and things like Facebook are the perfect medium. I don’t put it out there for the people that judge but for those who may be feeling the same pain. It might touch their hearts and help heal the way it is helping me.
I’m so glad you like it, Andrea! I think Facebook is a great medium to share the Word, joy, celebrations and other positivity! I wish more people would do it!
I love the upper body shot of you with the sunglasses off and you smiling. Beautiful!
Thank you, Meagan! So sweet of you to say!
Great blog! And you look hot! I would never have paired the blue shoes with the black and leopard print. I always go safe with black.
Aww! Thanks, Mom! We need to find you some cobalt shoes!
You look so cute Tori…I’m loving the peplum dress
Thank you so much, Tyesha!! I love peplum!
AMEN! You’re are so on point with your post today. Nobody has the perfect life, but those who can identify the bright spot in their lives are a joy to be around — not fake.
I’m so glad you liked it, Ellen! I love your comment. Everyone has trials and tribulations but to look for the good in life is so fulfilling!
This is awesome 🙂 And you look beautiful. I thought it was an entire dress at first. Love the bag!
Thank you so very much, April! Your compliments are too kind!
What a gorgeous outfit to go with this beautiful blog post. Love it all, Tori.
Thank you so much, Colleen! Compliments from you mean a lot!