Time for Five Minute Friday. You know what that means. I’ll write for five focused minutes  on a specific prompt, then get together and share with my fellow writers at Kate’s spot on Facebook at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com.

To entice you to check us out, I’ve also been sharing some of the experiences my fellow writers have shared as chronicled in Five Minute Friday: A Collection of Stories Written in Five Minutes Flat. This week, I’ll include the words contributed by Carol. I hope her words inspire you to join our writing club.

“I’ve been blogging for just over six months. Before deciding to join the burgeoning ranks of aspiring bloggers, my knowledge and experience of computer technology was quite basic and I’d totally shunned social media. So what do I decide to do? I set up not one, but two blogs! Realizing that I needed to extend my connections, I considered getting involved with some kind of blogging event. However, it had to be the right type — one that complimented my blog’s focus on prayer and victorious living and which would not be time-consuming. FMF seemed ideal. The writing event is flexible, consists of a brief (five minute) free-write session and facilitates peer feedback. One of my blog followers, who is a regular participant, commended FMF members as a caring and supportive community. All in all, FMF offers me a win-win solution.”

There you go. The prompt this week is VALUE and the timer is set so it is time to GO…

There are two ways to evaluate the word value. One is its worth or the worth of something to us. The second is the principle. I think the two are intertwined.

Our value define our values … or … our beliefs define what we perceive is worth for us.

That’s probably the way it should be. We should establish our values — our principles — first. Then we can affirm what is of value to us.

Let me give a quick example. If we feel personal property or gain is an underlying tangible value, it could color our principles. In contrast, if we ascribe to the theory we are just pilgrims on this earthy journey awaiting another greater adventure for eternity, then the material possessions of the world are of less import.

I think, all too often, in today’s world, the balance is backwards. Often, people are looking at the here and now as their ultimate value … STOP

… I personally don’t need fame or fortune {I wouldn’t turn them down, however, just consider it a bonus}. I’m content with what I have and don’t have. The one value I do covet is knowing I have value to my Maker. Of that, I am sure.

THOUGHT TO REMEMBER: Be generous with all things — time, talent and treasure.