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Author: Kaleathia Murphy

Less is More: How Starting Fresh in California Redefined My Happiness.

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You can start over as many times as you want. There aren’t any rules to life, and there’s nothing wrong with starting over. In fact, starting over is a fresh beginning, a new way to learn and grow. I’ve started over several times, and by now, I’d say I’m somewhat of an expert on the matter—not that I’m bragging, of course.

My latest “start over” was moving from Georgia to California. Yes, those two states are polar opposites, but that’s what I love most about it. I had no preconceived notions about California—it was like doing a blind taste test. I couldn’t base my expectations on anything I’d seen or heard; I just had to experience it for myself. Okay, I might have cheated a little—I did visit San Diego for a week and loved it so much that I told my husband to go back home and send my belongings because I wanted to stay. The newness of the place and the people excited me. Just imagining myself driving in a new area, getting lost, and discovering new things along the way brought a smile to my face. I guess you could say I’m a bit of a weirdo who gets excited about starting over from scratch.

Two years ago, we moved into a two-bedroom apartment and partially furnished it. Recently, we downsized to a studio apartment, 578 square feet of newness. Needless to say, we had to get rid of some things, but that didn’t bother me at all. In fact, I’m kind of living my dream of having less. We have just a handful of items now, and I’m the happiest I’ve ever been. This is less than I’ve ever had in my life, and I’m finally understanding the “less is more” concept. Having fewer possessions means more space for life’s adventures, and that’s something I’m excited to embrace.

The beautiful transformation in Jesus Christ

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Lately, I’ve developed a fascination with butterflies, though I’m a bit embarrassed to admit that I used to be afraid of them. In my defense, they looked kind of scary to me. Sure, their wings are beautiful, but their bodies definitely screamed “insect,” and I’ve never been a fan of insects! To make matters worse, it always felt like they were following me—almost as if they knew I didn’t like them and were chasing me. Silly, I know, but that’s how I felt.

But despite my initial fear, I’ve become intrigued by butterflies, particularly by their metamorphosis. The transformation from a caterpillar into a butterfly is truly astounding. Every part of the caterpillar—the tissues, limbs, and organs—undergoes a complete change. The once earth-bound creature emerges with wings, vibrant colors, long legs, an antenna, and larger eyes. Even its mouth changes from one designed for chewing to one perfectly suited for sipping nectar. It’s remarkable how the butterfly also gains the ability to change its colors to blend into its surroundings, protecting itself from predators. What’s even more fascinating is that the butterfly retains the same nervous system it had as a caterpillar, meaning it carries memories from its previous life.

This metamorphosis reminds me of my own transformation in Jesus Christ. Just as the caterpillar is completely changed into something new, Jesus transforms us when we give our lives to Him. Our old self, with all its flaws and limitations, is reshaped into something beautiful and purposeful. In Christ, we become new creations, with new ways of thinking, seeing, and living. And just like the butterfly, we retain the memories of our past, but they no longer define us. Instead, they remind us of how far we’ve come and how much we’ve been transformed by His grace.

More than what we seem: becoming something spectacular

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We are so much more than our jobs or the challenges we face. Our true essence goes beyond the roles we play or the circumstances we find ourselves in. Like the water hyacinth, an aquatic plant that thrives on the surface of water, we too have the potential to grow and bloom beautifully, even in unexpected places.

The water hyacinth is known for its rapid growth, often doubling in size within just two weeks. Its vibrant purple or blue flowers float gracefully on the water’s surface, a testament to its resilience and beauty. But this growth can also become invasive, blocking sunlight and depleting oxygen, causing harm to the very environment that sustains it.

This serves as a reminder that while growth is natural and necessary, it’s important to be mindful of how we grow and where we direct our energy. I believe something is happening in the atmosphere, a shift that I can’t quite see but deeply feel. It’s as if something wonderful is in the making, something that will transform me into the person I’m destined to be. I have faith that this journey will lead to something spectacular, and I’m excited for what’s to come.

So, as you navigate your own growth, remember to embrace it with wisdom and purpose. Trust in the process, even when you can’t see the full picture. Great things are on the horizon, and you are on the path to becoming something truly extraordinary.

Unwavering Strength: How My Husband Inspires Me Every Day

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My husband is my real-life motivator. Every day, he gets up early and works as unto the Lord. How he keeps going, even through adversity, amazes me. He has vision in only one eye, and even that isn’t at its best right now. He recently had surgery to help improve it, but the healing process is slow and challenging. Despite the frustration, I still see him doing life with determination, working diligently and with great excellence.

He’s also my accountability partner. Everyone needs someone who will tell them the hard truths, and I trust him completely because I know he loves me. He wouldn’t say anything to intentionally hurt me; his words come from a place of love and compassion. I know that when he speaks, it’s to help me become a better person.

Marrying someone smarter than me might just be the best mistake I’ve ever made.

Where’s the fire?

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I’ve been following Jesus for a long time, journeying through seasons of trials and victories. The beautiful thing about seasons is that they can change in an instant. Yet, through every shift and every challenge, my fire for Christ hasn’t been snuffed out. It’s almost impossible for it to be because Christ is the fire. This fire is within me, and wherever I go, it goes with me.

So, how does one get this fire? It’s not complicated. It’s given to those who believe that Jesus Christ died for our sins. That simple act of faith ignites a flame that can never be extinguished. It’s a gift—once given, it’s never taken away.

No matter what life throws at me, this fire remains. It’s a constant source of strength, guiding me through every season. And for that, I am forever grateful.

Everyone needs a Judas

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I once heard a sermon titled “Everyone Needs a Judas.” At first, the idea seemed controversial. Why would anyone need a betrayer in their life? But as I grew in my faith and gained more life experience, the truth behind this message became clear. We all do, in fact, need a Judas to reach our purpose.

Adversity plays a crucial role in shaping us into who we are meant to be. Sometimes, it arrives in the form of betrayal, loss, or uncertainty—much like Jesus’ experience with Judas. Judas was not just any disciple; he was someone close to Jesus, trusted and beloved, who ultimately committed the ultimate betrayal. Yet, this wasn’t just a moment of treachery; it was a necessary step in the journey Jesus had to take. Without Judas, the path to the crucifixion—and ultimately, the fulfillment of Jesus’ purpose—wouldn’t have been the same.

Adversity often feels harsh and unfair. It strikes when we lack resources, when relationships falter, or when we face overwhelming uncertainty. In these moments, we might wonder how we will ever overcome, how we can possibly move forward when everything seems to be falling apart. But just as Jesus needed Judas to fulfill His destiny, we too need our own “Judas moments”—those seemingly insurmountable obstacles—to push us toward our true calling.

When it feels like you won’t make it through, remember that adversity is not the end. It’s a vital part of the journey that builds resilience, deepens faith, and clarifies our purpose. Like Jesus, we must face our own betrayals and hardships, not as setbacks, but as the very challenges that mold us into who we are meant to be.

“A Journey of Faith and Dependence”

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I’ve been called out about something that I thought that I hid well. I didn’t make California my home in my heart. I haven’t fully unpacked, or organized like I usually do when I move into a new place. I haven’t made a list of home decor that I want to make our place a home. Somehow, I kept the most important new move actions on ice.

Let me be honest, the move has been great. But there have been great challenges. Full transparency, I did question whether I was supposed to be in California. Surprisingly, yes! Here, I’m learning God in a new way. I’m totally dependent here. It’s no distractions, just me and God.

I have given birth in California. I have given birth to humility. I’ve learned how to ask for help. I learned how to take what is given to me. I learned how to be vulnerable. Most importantly, I learned how to be okay being in lack.

I must admit it doesn’t add up. It doesn’t make sense. But that’s so God. Only God can do something that will get your attention, to solely focus on Him. Only God tells you to do something totally opposite of what you planned for your life — and only God can create ways to make you become what He wanted you to be.

Moving to California was not just about changing locations; it was about transforming my heart. I am discovering that God sometimes calls us to unfamiliar places to strip away our comforts, so we learn to depend solely on Him. In the midst of uncertainty, I find myself more grounded in faith than ever before. Each day, I am reminded that God’s plans are higher than mine, and His ways are perfect, even when they don’t align with my expectations. And so, I embrace this journey with open arms, trusting that I am exactly where I am meant to be—learning, growing, and becoming the person God has destined me to be.

 

I want to grow up spiritually

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I woke up this morning with burdens brewing up inside of me. I’m having to constantly battle with all the hurts and offenses  that I try to forgive. It saddens me when someone drops off what someone has said about me. What grieves me  is that they want a response from me.

Experience has taught me that trying to prove how right I am doesn’t matter. I’ve learned to simply digest it and let whomever believe what they want. I don’t have time to refute every bit of gossip. I do understand that people have the right to say whatever they want about me. I can’t control that but I have full control over my mouth. What doesn’t it matter if I choose not say nothing? I’ve wasted many years talking to people who didn’t take heed to wisdom that I supplied.

Now, I let my words be few or none at all. I hurt when I know someone has spoken ill about me. Sometimes I even cry. Yet, my sadness brings about a birth of clarity. People will be people and I have the right to forgive and move on. This isn’t an overnight process. It takes time to see it spiritually once someone has hurt you. Being lead by the spirit, makes me see things how they are. My flesh can’t trick me into seeing something that doesn’t exist.

I simply understand that offenses will come in life,but I must use spiritually defenses to help me grow. I can choose to use my flesh or my spirit.

Maturity lets me know that God is with me and I’m not bearing whatever I go through alone.  I do hurt when I lose people who once were my friends, but I do understand purpose. With purpose some people aren’t suppose to be in life but for a season. 

How do I stay encouraged?

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When life deals you lemons, make lemonade. Yes, I know it sounds corny. I’ve had  many lemons. Now  I’m quite fond of lemonade. It was a time I didn’t think positive. It was a time when I didn’t stay encouraged. To be transparent, it was a time I just wallowed in self pity and doubt. I believed that I was a magnet for doom and gloom. I built a world of discouragement.  And in that world I couldn’t see pass the wall. So here’s the million dollAr question, how do i stay encouraged?  And is staying encouraged, possible? Of course, but you have to dig deep to keep the momentum.

The key to how I stay encouraged is placing situations into 2 categories. A God-thing or a Shay-thing. I asked myself is this something I can handle or God. In most cases, it’s a God-thing. I try not to waste precious time figuring out things I just don’t understand. Besides I learned worrying don’t change anything.

Another key to how I stay encouraged and motivated is encouraging others. No matter what,I give the most positive outcome. Despite how it looks. It may be a fact but it doesn’t has to be a truth.

I once believed that I wouldn’t be able to finish college because of a reading test I failed 4x. Yes, 4x. The first 2x I took it, I felt that I should just come up with a back up plan. A plan to replace my college dream. But instead I took a class that helped me better prepare for the test. I did an exceptional job in the class so when it came time to take the test, my confidence was on high. Yet, I didn’t pass the test and I wasn’t distraught. I was quite in encouraged. I made a deal with myself that as long as I stay positive and know that I will eventually pass it. The fact was I failed the test more times than average and it was mostly likely that I wouldn’t pass. Those were the facts but my truth was I was going to pass the test and I wouldn’t give up no matter the outcome. I eventually passed the test and completed college with honors. All the statistics, and facts were not favorable to me but I know facts are not truths. That’s why I don’t hesitate to tell someone to believe different no matter what’s against them.

Small steps

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It only takes a few small steps in the right direction not leaps. Yet, I believed I accomplished more when I felt I did more. That’s simply a falsehood. Small, consistent steps brings healthy stable habits. In addition, it produces a contentment and patience.

Oh, how I wish some would just slow down to see how little produces much. It spreads far and wide too. Each day I start with reading a scripture or two. I meditate on that scripture. I pray and then for the rest of the day; I try to think on what I read and meditated on. It has taken me years to practice daily devotional and more years to meditate and a few more on application.

My  small steps yielded me a life of freedom and joy. So, now it’s your turn to start with your small steps. The time is now.