When You’re a Hugger AND Encourager

That’s me. I come from a family of huggers. So, throw me into a world of social distancing and stay-at-home orders and I’m really uncomfortable. Actually, my heart aches for our world that needs a good dose of love, compassion, understanding and HUGS. Let’s get the truth out there. God, the greatest of all lovers everywhere, didn’t cause this world to be locked up. Not our God Who “reached out and touched” the untouchable and loved the unlovable. It was our Lord’s mode of operation that He modeled for us from the feet of His disciples as He washed them as the greatest Servant of all. Our Lord was the One that crowds thronged around Him. He was the One Who called the little children to Him. He was the One who fed the thousands in a crowded situation. So, who is responsible?

It is the enemy of our souls – the greatest hater of all – the one who locks us up to keep us from loving, the one who would rather kill, steal and destroy our peace, our joy, our hope and our love. He is the one who tried to take our Lord out, once and for all, by crucifying him. He failed. It is he that has us locked up and away from others. But, he will not win. He is a loser in every way because we have read the end of The Book, the Bible, AND, we win!

A friend of mine posted on Facebook: “I hate Facebook”. I commented: “Oh please don’t hate it. It’s my mission field. We just have to let our little lights shine brighter so the darkness gets lit up with God’s love. I’ve learned to avoid the negative in every way. You have too many blessings to not share them. Love you so much sweet girl.” The truth is if we’re not the light and the encouragers, who will be? Sure I might need to stave off my hugging for the time being, but I can still encourage in word through social media, email, and when I am at church (yes, my church is following the 50% rule – sitting in every other pew and 6 feet apart). I can wave and blow kisses through my facemask. Encouragers just have to encourage.

Country Living magazine came out with more scriptures. I posted their encouragement in uncertain times' scriptures a few weeks ago). Now they posted scriptures about encouraging others to brighten their day. I love this so much and I’m passing on excerpts from their article and scripture verses for you to use to encourage yourself and others.

“Encouragement is something we all need to keep us motivated, loved, and feeling confident in ourselves and what we do. It’s something that is important for our mental and overall health and it truly can give us just the same amount of joy to give it to others as it is to receive it. Because God created us and knows this about our personalities, he has provided countless verses in the Bible to not only encourage us but also to teach us the importance of lifting up those around us. Imagine how your community could change for the better with a little more encouragement between neighbors instead of community message boards filled with complaints. Or how strong your team at work could become if each person talked up their teammates' work instead of their own accomplishments in order to get ahead. What a world that could be!”

** Hebrews 10:24-25 -- "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds..”
** Psalm 31:24 -- "Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord."
** Psalm 121:1-2 -- "I lift up my eyes to the hills. Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."
** Romans 15:2 -- "Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up."
** John 16:33 -- "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
** 1 Corinthians 16:13 -- "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong."
** Romans 8:31 -- "What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
** 1 Thessalonians 5:11 -- "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."
** Romans 15:5 -- "May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had."
** Romans 15:2 -- "Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up."
** 1 Timothy 4:12 -- "Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity."
** Isaiah 40:31 -- "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
** Joshua 1:9 -- "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
** 2 Timothy 1:7 -- "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."
** John 14:27 -- "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."
** Philippians 1:6 -- "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."
** John 15:13 -- "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends."
** 1 Corinthians 10:13 -- "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."
** Galatians 6:2 -- "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."

Thank you, Country Living magazine, for giving us exactly what we need to be encouraged and be encouragers!

Happy Mother’s Day to the Sisterhood!

And that is YOU even if you’ve never borne down in the battle cry of birth or not! Of course, I honor my own precious mother today because if it weren’t for her – I wouldn’t be and neither would these children and grandchildren of mine. The best of me came from her. I thank God for that precious saint that I’ll throw my arms around one day and thank her again and again for giving me -- ME!

I believe that all of us are called to mother another – whether we call it mothering or not. We mother because we’re called to it. We are the ones who reach out to a struggling sister, child, college student, teenager, grandmother or couple. We mother the one who shows up at our doorstep to hear a positive word that she can make it one more day of home-schooling her children. We mother whether we’re married or not, and have a slew of kids or not.

We mother because we can’t not mother. We can't help ourselves, because there is a friend who has been hurt and needs a soft, safe place to land. We mother because we’ve watched our mothers make TLC soup for the sick. We mother because the older woman at the mall locked her keys in her car and we call for help for her and we wait and encourage her until help comes (true story). Because, we mother.

We love with genuine affection in our hearts. We delight in honoring each other. We give ourselves away — little bits and pieces of who we are, of our courage, of our deep faith, of our hope and peace. We bear down and we find ways to bring life to people desperate for air. Because it’s what we do – we mother.

Every single woman who loves, sacrifices, encourages, tends, cares, raises, praises, shapes, forms, nurtures, and cheers on others, no matter how you came to be connected with them, is doing an amazing, mothering work. And today -- as we celebrate our earthly (or heavenly) mothers, we celebrate you, too.

I honor you, believe in you and champion you! Happy Mother’s Day to my Sisterhood! Thank you for all you are and all you do!

“Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.” (Romans 12:10)

Because I Can – Because We Can

It was cold enough for gloves and warm jacket, but I went for an early morning long walk, with earbuds in my ears and praise and worship music kicked up in high gear. I was flailing my arms and high-stepping it. Why would I do that? Because I can.

I was listening to the song “Where the Spirit of the Lord is” and I couldn’t help myself. His Spirit lives in me. Wherever I am, He is. Why wouldn’t I get myself moving and dancing and going outdoors and celebrating life? Quite frankly, outdoors seems to be the closest place to be near Him. After all, everywhere we look – the skies, the trees, the birds, the sun – AND people walking by -- He is there – and I think to myself what a wonderful world!

Why wouldn’t I dance? What wouldn’t I walk or run or jog? Why wouldn’t I stretch out my arms to the heavens in praise and worship to my Lord? Why wouldn’t I – when there are others on ventilators and they can’t, who are confined in bed and they can’t, who are isolated in a prison cell and they can’t, who are in a third world country and they are too afraid leave their shelter, so they can’t.

Because YOU can. We have seen you. You’re the ones holding up signs and balloons out of car windows, honking your car horn to celebrate someone’s birthday – apart, but together in spirit! We have seen you. You are the one who stands on your porch or balcony and you sing or play an instrument to brighten the world. You are the family that gets all together outside an elderly parent’s nursing home window to cheer them up. We have seen you. You are the devoted followers of Christ who are not missing a beat of your time to worship and praise Him in online services from home. We have seen you. You are the ones collecting food for the those who lost their jobs and they need help. We have seen you. You are the ever-faithful medical, emergency, and essential services warriors that have been relentless in life better for us. We have seen you.

And, what you see here is a most precious gift from a dear friend who is so multi-talented and uses her gifts to bless others. Because she can. She’s not one that likes to be on stage or to be the grandiose out-loud-pray-er – but, oh, the blessing she is to many. Because she can. On Tuesday, with her son as her chauffeur and her dogs as her body guards – she brought me this lovely encouragement. She blessed me so much. She handcrafted and painted half of the heart with these words:
“2020 started strong and tall. Who’d have thought that we’d end up with social distancing for all?
For now, my heart is hurting and broken right in two,
So, here’s a piece for me and here’s a piece for you.
But when this crazy time is through,
And we won’t have to be apart,
We’ll get together, have some fun
And mend this broken heart.”

Precious brothers and sisters-in-Christ – get out and do something that you can do, explore and do more for each other AND lift your praises to God – BECAUSE YOU CAN!

We Need Each Other to Finish Strong

I was (emphasis on “was”) a half-marathon runner up until a couple of years ago when my knees starting singing songs of “gloom, despair and agony on me”. I knew I needed to hang up my running shoes and put on my walking shoes. I remember the many hours and days of training and preparing for the impending marathon events. That training, combined with friends and family support, would assure me of a strong finish.

I think about all of us in these formidable times. While I am in a cozy, safe place here in my little home all to myself, I am well aware of the moms and dads working from home and/or homeschooling their children, which is an unprepared-for-way-of-life. A young single mom I know is having to confront all this by herself – with four young children. And I think about those who are struggling with enough finances to sustain their families throughout this time of job loss. And I think about all the healthcare workers and the essential services workers who are being stretched to the nth degree. And so many others whose lives have been turned upside down. They must feel like they are in a no-ending marathon because what was days has turned into weeks and maybe even months.

I’m convinced this race we’re in won’t last forever. The end may not be in sight just yet, but it is, without doubt, up ahead. I remember how long my marathons seemed. One mile completed, then two miles, then three...... The energy at the beginning was being depleted as I ran. But a bright light shined for me when, at strategic locations, my family would be standing on a corner, holding up signs and cheering me on “Go Nana! Go Mom! You can do this! You’ve got this!” It was just what I needed to help me finish strong. It seemed there was no end in sight, but I would round a corner and up ahead I could hear the crowd cheering, the announcer declaring the names of those crossing the finish line, and I just knew I could make it and hear my name being announced. Hurting, exhausted, and worn-out as I was – I crossed that finish line. How sweet the victory was for me AND for those cheering me on.

What can we do to be those cheerleaders who push and pull us through these times? My daughter-in-love sent me lots of videos and photos of what they’re doing during these times. It made me tear up – with happy tears – to see them making the most of their isolation. We can do the same thing. We can hold up encouragement signs via drive-bys or social media, texting, making phone calls. We can assure others that we are REALLY praying for them. Maybe even offering financial support for those who are at the end of their resources. Those small acts help them know their value and worth to us.

And to all of you – all of us – who are in this “season” of so many unknowns, we are not without hope. A new day is on the horizon – maybe we can’t see the end yet, but it will be seen sooner or later. That’s what this daily blog is all about. To be a cheerleader to you – no matter what you’re facing today. To be a megaphone for God shouting out to you: “You are God's beloved child and you are worthy of being encouraged and supported as you continue to run this race. Live strong during these times with knowing that God is with you, cheering you on to your Finish Line. Run strong. Finish strong. And, pass it along!

“Help carry each other's burdens. In this way you will follow Christ's teachings.” Galatians 6:2

Just Breathe!

I’m a doer. I like to be busy. Just sitting around is not my ideal. My project today is getting my master closet cleared out of unused clothes and organizing for spring and summer. But, this day, I break up my project to breathe. I leave my bunker to socially-reconnect with the great outdoors and my girls. How sweet it is! They take me along for their kayaking adventure on Lake Lewisville. It is a beautiful day to be outdoors. I take a long walk while they have their kayaking fun. Staci put her busy-day, full-of-projects, aside also because Alexia wants us to “breathe” with her. Thank you, Alexia, for the reminder to just breathe.

Then I go to their home where Staci leads her EMnation group for a teleconference on Zoom. It makes my day to see those beautiful faces and hearing Staci's message about our attitudes during these times, as well as hearing the blessings these people are experiencing right in the midst of this C-virus crisis. And, to encourage each other.

On Monday, my ACTS retreat team sisters connected via Zoom also. Our retreat was canceled, but, hopefully, we’ll be back on in the Fall. In the meantime, we’re staying connected though apart. It’s a great way to encourage and support each other. Thank you, Lord, for technology that affords us this kind of opportunity to join together from our separate spaces. If our world is going to be turned upside-down – what a great age for it to happen – when we have so much technology to keep us apprised of what’s going on. We’re even enjoying “going-to-church” from the comfort of our homes.

But, sometimes – even better – when we disconnect ourselves from technology and just BREATHE in God’s goodness. I started this blog with the word “breathe”! Typically, just breathing is taken for granted – amidst our daily challenges. Yes, we're remedied by calculated thinking and purposeful elimination of unnecessary stress. But, it is different with this uncalculated and abrupt change to our “normal”. We’ve never had to face these challenges that we’re facing right now. Homeschooling, business from home, church on-line, disconnected from friends and loved ones, depression from isolation or a loss of income. AND, not being able to go to our loved ones in a nursing home or hospital or traveling by air to be with one who is critically ill.

Maybe you’re one that is facing these challenges today. Maybe you are overwhelmed by this tumultuous storm and nothing anyone says to lift you up makes you feel better. Breathe, sweet friends, breathe. Inhale Jesus and His peace. Exhale the fears and worries and concerns. Erma Bombeck said, “Worry is like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but you get nowhere!” There’s always hope and peace found in the midst of our storms because of He Who is our peace-maker, the storms eradicator and the comfort provider.

There’s an old song that goes “Mama said there’d be days like this”, and Jesus agreed with Mama when He said in John 16:33 “In the world, you will have trouble. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” He knew we’d face hard times, storms that dump buckets of troubles on us. But He also knew that’s why He came to this earth in the first place. He came to give us an abundant life, went back to heaven and He is ever-interceding for us to the Father.(Hebrews 7:25) And, even better, He is right here with us to help us survive the winds and waves!

So, breathe, sweet friends, breathe! Go outside for a walk in nature. Listen to the birds chirping. It really does seem that they’re chirping louder. Or, is it I’m listening more? Breathe, dear friends, breathe today and let God be God for you.

I Want to be God's Promotional Display

Ever notice how strategically retailers display items in their store to draw us in? It's all about them using psychology to grab us and encourage us to spend more on items we didn't even realize we wanted. Even the height of items matters. Lower items for the kiddos to see and beg for that "must have" cereal and the items that are placed in the middle of the ailse that we can't resist. Or those promotional displays at the ends of aisles. Over time we even start to look at those areas as we pass to see if there is anything we want to buy there.

When we went into the store to pick up just a couple of items, we're now loaded with a cart-full of items and we think we're done shopping when we stand in line to pay and we have one more chance to impulsively buy a package of gum or a magazine, or our child begs for the candy bar they see. It’s all a part of that establishment’s strategy to make us buy more.

I entitled my blog today “I Want to be God's Promotional Display". Like the strategically placed item in the store – I want to be strategically placed that others can’t resist. As followers of Jesus Christ, you and I are called to live exemplary lives that people around us respect and want to be around. Jesus says, "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16

We are called to be the light of Christ to others. We are called to represent Him well -- as we make choices of excellence. We are called to be noticed as others see our good works that bring glory to God. We are called to be His "promotional display"!
The choice is ours. We want to live our lives with excellence and goodness that bring glory to our loving Father.

Here we are just a week away from Christmas Day – and opportunities abound for us to be promoters of God -- His representatives. We can shine brightly in busy stores and wait patiently in check-out lines. We can use that time with our phones -- heads down scrolling through our messages and timeline or talking to someone on it -- totally ignoring others while we wait. Or, we can be promotional displays of God as we wait patiently, purposely smiling, noticing those around us -- like Jesus did with Zaccheus up in the tree, or the blind man begging. We can encourage a mama with an emotional child. We can offer to let someone go ahead of us who has only one or two items and we have a cart-full. We can spread "Joy to the World" wherever we are. May we be light-bearers and LIGHT-sharers as we make choices for how we will live our lives as promotional displays for the goodness and grace of our Lord Jesus. Then, others will be saying "I want some of that!"

Mercy Me! Bring on the Light!

It's my annual rant time! That expletive isn’t about the Christian vocal group, Mercy Me! It’s about the ghosts, goblins, zombies, witches, and other Halloween paraphernalia that “haunts” us at retail stores and homes this time of year.

Wait! Before you Halloween enthusiasts stop reading this blog, please know I'm not judging anyone who celebrates Halloween! I know what Jesus said "Do not judge, or you too will be judged!" (Matthew 7:1) If I judge people who celebrate Halloween then those people can judge me for celebrating my birthday. Yikes! A whole day to celebrate ME? To bring me gifts and light a candle on a sugary idol with my name on it?

Honestly, my awareness of seeking THE LIGHT and being a light has come from years of growth in my walk with Jesus.
I was a trick or treater and, as you can see in these cute photos, we celebrated Halloween along with everyone else. (That first one is my son and the others are grandchildren). And, October 31st is a day we love because it's Mom's (my mom-in-law's) birthday. And, I know there are hundreds of things worse than cute kids dressed like Elsa or Buzz Lightyear.

Heaven forbid that I sound like a kill-joy! It's a heart matter for me. I don't want to rain on anyone’s Halloween Parade, but this chick prefers the "light" side. I have long removed myself from horror flicks that I watched as a kid. I wondered why I couldn’t sleep at night. Well, duh? I don’t read books that cause me to entertain thoughts of darkness, and neither do I put myself into situations that draw me into darkness or create darkness – anger, envy, strife, jealousy, sadness, grief, etc. If I find myself getting close to those places -- I look for the closest “escape hatch” that I can find. My motto scripture is “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Philippians 4:8.

This Bible thumper just can't help but use this season to share the good news of the One who was raised from the dead. I want to preach Jesus. I want to find people to encourage, call that family member who needs hope, pray for professed witches and satanists who need Jesus and use my tongue and social media to communicate life, joy and peace. And, I want to see evil become good: "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:21)

I live in the light -- on purpose. I lean toward the LIGHT – God and His Word. That’s why the scriptures are so vital to me – they’re my absolute statements of faith, peace, comfort and joy. ”You will keep him (her) in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he (she) trusts in You.” (Isaiah 26:3)

If you find yourself depressed, sad, afraid, doubting -- living in those places of darkness -- I lovingly encourage you to move toward THE LIGHT. Put light in your heart and home. I promise you…..you’ll find the SWEET SPOT…..where I live! There’s nothing like it!

How Beautiful are the Hands and Feet of Caregivers

Yesterday, I attended the funeral of Aunt Iris Litke, my father-in-law’s sister. After 68 years of marriage, her husband, Uncle Hugo preceded her to heaven. Their son, Art, and wife, Sharon and their son, Michael, were her caregivers. I’ve admired their strength yet tenderness in the care of this precious woman who struggled with tremendous health issues up to her passing. Hearing about their tender love and care for her made me want to reach out to my social media friends who are caregivers today and encourage you as you carry on faithfully in this beautiful ministry of caregiving. I totally believe you have the Father's heart of love and compassion.

I recognize that ministry. I was the caregiver to my precious Mama for many years and into her later years, her 24-7 caregiver. Then during my Sweetheart's illness, being his 24-7 caregiver. I watch my dear sis-in-law and her husband who welcomed my mother-in-law into their home and have given her 24/7 care. What that means is they don’t take vacations or even spend very many hours away from her. Believe me I’ve tried to step up but Mom insists on Karen being there. I get it. Her trust and security is enveloped in the devotion of her beloved daughter. Mom can only deal with a few hours without Karen’s undivided attention. I assure you -- these beautiful caregivers are living with no regrets. I know. I have no regrets in the care of my mom and my husband.

Caregiving should never feel like it's merely a duty or obligation. Caregiving can be welcomed into our hearts as a God-given ministry. It may be a hidden ministry that goes unnoticed by many, but it is a ministry that God sees and one that pleases Him. Jesus recognized its importance when He said, “Whoever helps one of these little ones because they are my followers will truly get his reward. He will get his reward even if he only gave my follower a cup of cold water.” Matthew 10:42.

As a caregiver, God will use your hands as an extension of His hands -- to hold, to support, to embrace, to comfort, to bless, to help, to heal. He will use your words— to encourage, to build up, to speak hope, to convey truth, to strengthen faith, to deepen trust, to impart love. He will use your presence— to show care, to bring companionship, to wipe a tear, to soothe a pain, to dispel a fear, to rub a brow, to kiss a cheek, to hold a hand, to fluff a pillow, to reassure when there’s a setback, to celebrate when progress is made. Those actions certainly do sound like the actions and character of God. God with skin on.

As His servants, the ministry of caregiving means that whatever it is we do to help another, even if it means the simple act of giving a glass of water, the Lord receives it as a ministry done unto Him. How blessed we are to be able to make God's heart glad as we touch others with His love. I can imagine He is giving you applause and a standing ovation for a "job well done"! In fact, He’s saying “Well done, good and faithful servants. Enter into my joy. You earned it. Receive it.”

Do We Represent Well?

I saw this heart-wrenching photo and thought "Thank God! This soldier represents us well." A foreign ambassador is one who represents her/his country. Their words, their diplomatic demeanor, and their actions are the “good impression” that is needed to ensure comradery and a commitment for peace and well-being between a foreign country and their home country.

We were designed to be representatives of God’s Kingdom on earth. We are ambassadors for Christ. So, as His ambassadors, shouldn’t we represent Him well? We are a living letters. In 2 Corinthians 3:2-3, Paul says, “You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.”

So let's take a look at our lives. Are we living letters? Are we a letter of recommendation where others would say, “Hey, I want to be part of that group because they are generous, kind, loving and supportive!" Are we rivers of water to bring about good and healing and growth? 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says “Encourage one another and build each other up.”

It's time to take a self analysis test -- to look inward and ask "How well do we represent?" And, other questions like: “Are you the friend you wish you had?” “Are you the wife/husband, mother/ father, daughter/son, sister/brother that you wish you had?” In other words, instead of pulling out the “10 Things I Don’t Like About You” to someone else, maybe it’s the ideal time to make a list that says “10 Things I Can Do to Improve ME” so that I become the best representative I can be for Christ as a friend, spouse, child, sibling.

Being Christ’s representative is being the beautiful creation God made us to be by appreciating all that God placed within us to BE – that quirky laugh that brightens up a room with joy; those eyes that see the pain and needs of others and does something about it; that voice that speaks encouragement and hope into others, and that mind that consciously conjures up ways to change this world for the better. Most of all to be that ONE that sets the example of God’s love and peace to others…..so that they want YOU to be their best friend. In so doing – we ARE being the best versions of representatives for Christ!

A Prescription for the Dumps, the Mulligrubs, & the Grumpies

Do you need a prescription today because you’ve had it, you’ve just drawn the “last straw that broke the camel’s back”, someone got on your last nerve, and you’re just D-O-N-E done! Well, I’m happy to write this prescription for you today – one that you don’t even have to go to the corner drug store to get it filled. You need a Word break. If you'll just pick up your Bible, you'll find the hope you need. “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope” (Romans 15:).

God gave us the Bible to encourage us. It's a mood picker-upper. Everything in Scripture is written for our encouragement. Even the tough parts of God’s Word are there to ultimately encourage our lives in the right direction. That’s why we need to spend time alone with God every single day. Whether it’s our quiet time, daily devotional, or our personal inspiration time, we need to be getting alone with God, reading his Word, and talking to Him. Psalm 119:114 says: “You’re my place of quiet retreat; I wait for your Word to renew me”.

I’ve become pretty good at diagnosing the dumps, the mulligrubs and the grumpies. Better put -- if you’re discouraged and have lost hope, I can tell you one thing about your life without ever “getting into your business” -- you’re not spending time in God’s Word. You’re not spending time with Him. From having personally lived in the pity party zones, I know if you’re down and out, and having a pity party – it’s because God has become an uninvited guest to your miseries. I know from firsthand experience. Know God – know joy. No God – no joy.

So, today, I give you this prescription. I give you Jesus. He’s the peace that passes all understanding. I give you Jesus. He’s the perfect love that casts out all fear; I give you Jesus, He's the water that you drink and never thirst again; I give you Jesus, my friend, I give you Jesus. You will find Him in His Word.

The more we read God’s Word when we’re down, the more He lifts us up. So the next time discouragement comes knocking on your heart's door, don't open it. Open up your Bible instead -- and read it. God’s Word has the power to change your life. It has God’s power in it. Nothing else does. The Bible will give you the “real stuff” — true encouragement. Start out with this "real stuff"!

Psalm 16:5-11 "You, Lord, are all I have, and You give me all I need; my future is in Your hands. How wonderful are Your gifts to me; how good they are! I praise the Lord, because He guides me, and in the night my conscience warns me. I am always aware of the Lord's presence; He is near, and nothing can shake me. And so I am thankful and glad, and I feel completely secure, because You protect me from the power of death. I have served You faithfully, and You will not abandon me to the world of the dead. You will show me the path that leads to life; Your presence fills me with joy and brings me pleasure forever."

Let's Be Kindness Junkies

A "junkie" is someone consumed by an addiction. What a difference it would make if we were all addicted to being kind -- just can't help ourselves. It's who we are and what we do. A few days ago I told the story of our helping a lady whose keys were locked in her car and her cell phone was dead. She was so relieved when we showed up to help her. But, what if we had parked in another location or what if we were so into ourselves in conversation that we didn’t even notice her?

I believe we are all God’s messengers on assignment when we leave our homes (or even in our homes when we sense a nudge to encourage a family member or call someone to encourage them). Most of the time, kindness always begins with our eyes — the way we observe the world and are sensitive to the needs of other people.

That's what I caught when reading about the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:33: “When HE SAW the man’s condition, his heart was filled with pity”. Notice that “he saw.” That's our starting point. If we want to learn to be a kinder person, our world view must change to being an observer of the needs around us. When we're in a hurry -- kindness opportunities evade us. If we're wanting to be a "kindness junkie", then we must slow down! Distractions are the death of kindness.

1 Corinthians 10:24 says “Look out for the good of others”. The first step to kindness is to ask God to give us a sensitive, spiritual radar to be on the lookout for people around us who are hurting emotionally, spiritually, and physically. To be on high alert for the opportunity to spread a little kindness with our words and our actions.

I'm determined to be a kindness junkie. I want to be aware of those who need kindness ministered to them. I want a bumper crop of kindness to harvest. It’s not always easy to see the needs of other people, especially when they’re on the other side of the road. But it’s the starting point of kindness. Maybe it’s time to slow down and even stop to smell the roses because the roses we smell, might be someone who needs Jesus in human flesh.

The Keys to a Happy, Lifelong Marriage

It’s not often that I would post someone else’s words verbatim, but when I heard these (on audiobook), I knew I had to share them with those I love most. They opened my eyes to my own marriage, the struggles we had early on, the ups and downs we encountered and though our journey became sweeter as the years went by, we would have surely saved ourselves so much angst and been on a faster track by following, applying and living by these beautiful keys. If you’re still blessed to be married, I encourage you to print these out and start living by them – especially when it comes to the bumps in the road along the way. You know – when you’re sleeping on the edge of your bed so you don’t touch your loved one or when you’re giving each other the silent treatment…..again or when the “D” word comes up in your conversation or when you or your loved one’s words become less than praiseworthy. These keys are from Karen Kingsbury’s book, “When We Were Young”. The book is so real, raw and relevant to our day and times. I transcribed them to share with you. Here are “The Keys to a Happy Marriage”:

1) Keep God first. By loving God more than your spouse, you will always be humble enough to love your spouse more than humanly possible. This makes for a beautiful marriage. Matthew 6:33 -- “But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added to you.”

2) Divorce is not an option. From the beginning, remove the word “divorce” from your vocabulary. People do not look for a door where one does not exist. Mark 10:9 -- “Therefore what God has joined together, let no man separate.”

3) Marriage is not 50/50. There will be days when one of you falls short. Make it your goal to give 100% every day. That way, you’re both covered. Everyday forever. Colossians 3:23 -- “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord.”

4) Know your spouse’s love language. People speak love in different ways: gifts, acts of service, words of affirmation, physical touch, intentional time. Figure out how to speak to each other so that the love between you will grow. Romans 12:9 -- “Love must be sincere.”

5) Expect the best of each other. Forgive easily. Attitude is everything in marriage. Look for ways to humbly be kind to your spouse. Keep short accounts. Don’t worry about being right. Ephesians 4:2 -- “Be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Colossians 3:13 -- “Bear with each other and forgive one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

6) Keep dating. Your marriage must be a priority. Seek God first, then your spouse. Never stop dating and pursuing each other. Value and celebrate your love. Song of Solomon 3:2 -- “I must seek the one my soul loves.”

7) Build each other up. Kind words are free. Look for ways to encourage each other. Every day. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 -- “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.”

8) Laugh often. Find reasons to be silly. Smile and be lighthearted. You’ll laugh about it later so make up your mind to laugh about it today. Proverbs 17:22 -- “A cheerful heart is good medicine.”

9) Live within your means. Couples who get in debt, stay stressed. Living within your means can be great fun. Take walks. Play board games. Visit your park. Clip coupons. Hebrews 13:5 -- “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have.”

10) Fix yourself. Not your spouse. Work to be kinder and gentler. Be the person your spouse married. Listen well. Be intentional. Matthew 7:3 “ -- Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in
your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?”

And my own final words for thought and application to you: Live like there is no tomorrow. Live with no regrets. Be writing your love story every day so that when you or your loved one steps over to heaven’s side and awaits you there, you’ll carry with you so many precious memories of undying passion and love
right on into eternity. I did and I do.

When We’ve Run Out of Hope……

This is my second day in a row to blog about hope. Maybe it has to do with some of the assignments God has given me in the last few months to encourage others to hold onto hope.

So many are sick. Sick and tired. Sick of hearing so much negativity and hate. Sick of trying so hard to make changes in their lives. Sick of being sick. A scripture that answers that SICK-ness is this one: “Hope deferred makes the heart sick.” (Proverbs 13:12)

When we lose hope, we lose our health, our ability to dream, our determination to keep trying and our desire to face another day. No wonder so many are sick, hopeless and even die from heart illnesses or suicide. It’s truly a matter of the heart. The question, “Is there hope?” is asked every day:

~ When someone is sitting in the doctor’s office awaiting test results.
~ When a couple gets nowhere despite months and months in counseling.
~ When talking to an accountant before walking into a bankruptcy court.
~ When waiting for the results of a passing grade.
~ When waiting for a callback from a job interview.
~ When wondering if we can come together as a nation

Hope is a necessary source of life. Because hope is in such short supply today, people easily fall for all kinds of scams. They trust in false hopes, like get-rich-quick schemes, psychic hotlines, palm readings, and quack cures. Nothing disappoints worse than false hope. So where do we turn to find real hope? In Romans 15:13, the Apostle Paul gives us the answer – the answer is in God: “May God, the source of hope, fill you with joy and peace through your faith in Him. Then you will overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit”. Now that’s what I call a HOPE boat riding on a HOPE river – overflowing in hope. God is the only source of hope that will never disappoint. When we place our faith in Him, He provides joy, peace, and hope that overflows. Oh, how our world needs that hope.

The most common lie that satan uses to instill fear into us is to make us feel our desires, dreams and goals are hopeless. If you've felt that way -- welcome to the club! We've all had that uneasy feeling of hopelessness, but the sooner we squelch that lie and trust in God Who is the source of our hope, the sooner we will begin to be filled with joy and peace.....and even start to see positive results to all those hopes and dreams.

God is always with us. He’s in our past, in our present, and in our future. He’s with us in the good and bad places. He is everywhere. And we are never, ever alone. Where God is, hope is. So for a good physical, mental and spiritual report? Bring on the hope!

"They Opened Their Mouths With Wisdom!" Hey Girls! That's You and Me

Happy Mother's Day to all Moms! That includes all women who have been gifted with the "maternal instinct" of nurturing and caring for others. One of the greatest joys in life is to be a mother to my own children and to those God put into my life "to mother". There is something unique and special about how God designed a woman’s heart to love tenderly, teach wisely, and nurture selflessly -- and it's so much more than just my own little brood -- though I'm ever so grateful for each and every one I get to call mine.

I believe that all of us are called to mother another. In that sense, "mother" is a verb, an action, a gift we give to others. We mother whether we’re married or not or whether we’ve ever experienced giving birth or not. We mother those who cross the threshold of our homes and lives. We mother those who reach out to us on social media. We mother because we’re called to it -- throwing out a lifeline to a drowning friend, child, teenager, young mother, a grandmother, or that stranger who we notice is holding on to life for dear life. We mother because we can’t help ourselves. We were born to mother.

We mother because there are people who trust us and our keen awareness that "my life is far greater than us four and no more". We mother those we work, go to school or church with, live next door to or who meet us at the grocery store and need a soft, safe place to land and come undone. We mother because we’ve watched our moms and grandmas take food to someone's home or opened her door to a hurting soul. We mother when someone needs a shoulder to cry on when the negative diagnosis comes or the loved one passes away. We mother when a friend's child runs away from home, and she wants to run away from home, too!

This is what we do. We love with all the genuine affection in our hearts, and we delight in honoring each other. We give ourselves away — little bits and pieces of who we are, of our courage, of our deep faith. We bear down and we find ways to breathe life into people desperate for air. Every single woman who loves, sacrifices, encourages, tends, teaches, cares, raises, praises, shapes, forms, and nurtures, no matter how we come to be connected with them, is doing an amazing, mothering work. And today, Mother's Day, while I celebrate the most amazing mom and mother-in-law and my two amazing daughters of my seven grands, I celebrate you, too! I believe in you and champion you. Thank you for all that you are and all that you do. Happy Mother’s Day!

Proverbs 31:26 "She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue."

My Fear Doesn't Stand a Chance When I Stand in Your Love

My morning routine -- make my daily blog post, check emails, scroll through my social media, encourage and pray for those who reflect they need “team” support and prayer. A valiant, warrior mom’s post stopped me in my tracks yesterday.

This most amazing wife and mom has fought the good fight of faith for her precious son for many years. She is typically in full on battle mode as she keeps him comfortable, celebrates his victories (often a smile does that), dotes on him and does everything she can to help him thrive. But this day, she says (in an excerpt from her post): “Today was one of those days that I feel like I’m in a shoot for a movie that I never signed up for a role in. The doctor is talking...I know he’s looking at me and saying things that I’m supposed to remember but all I can feel is the storm. Three people all looking at me in a doctor’s office. Waiting. Waiting for me to make the call. I can’t even remember what the choices were. If that’s what you even want to call them.
Why do I have to make the choice? I’m not ready. What did you say? My husband isn’t here. Why? Why us? Why more? All the while looking around the room in a half daze like where are the cameras? There must be cameras here because this doesn’t happen in real life. Touché. Oh, how I wish this cup could pass us. I feel like I’m starting to lose hope. I feel like this war we have been faithfully waging will never be won. I’m tired of having bad days more than we have good days.”

Early this morning, I was hearing (in my head) Josh Baldwin’s song: “Stand in Your Love”. I thought about the lyrics when I read this friend’s post so I commented: “I know why I was thinking about this song this morning before I read your post. Sweet girl! You are such a valiant warrior and a most amazing mother to this precious little man! We continue to stand and when we've done all to stand -- we keep standing because we're standing in God's love! Listen to this song because I know it will minister to you! Love you so much!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1T2tMt0Ky6g

I don’t typically pass along someone’s post, but this day I sensed there are others who feel just like my friend. You’ve been given news that has jolted you. You are overcome with pressures and concerns about what today and tomorrow will hold for you and your loved one. You are ready to throw in the towel and give up. The strong faith you once had feels like it has drained entirely out of you. You, too, are ridden with starting to lose hope and you think the war you are waging will never be won.

I tell you what I told this sweet friend. STAND!!! Don’t give up! God is saying “Hold on, My child! Weeping lasts for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5)

I believe Josh Baldwin’s song lyrics are for you today, too:
When darkness tries to roll over my bones;
When sorrow comes to steal the joy I own;
When brokenness and pain is all I know;
Oh, I won't be shaken, no, I won't be shaken.

My fear doesn't stand a chance;
When I stand in Your love.

The good news is this sweet mama put her combat boots back on and she is standing strong another day – for a miracle. I love her Facebook banner. It says: “Expect a miracle. All things are possible.” And I speak that to you, too, mighty warriors! You and God have got this! You are an overcomer and are equipped for victory! Tough times don't last, but tough people, with God's help, do!

What is Your Sweet Spot?

“I would appreciate any positive prayers or scripture verses you could send my way.” Those were the words that I saw on a friend’s Facebook post yesterday. This sweet gal has had some very rough times, so I was quick to give her a couple of my favorite scriptures and a prayer, but when I read this scripture later, I went back and got behind my imaginary pulpit again. This time I typed these words to encourage her, and I figure, just maybe, there are others that need to hear these words, so go ahead and call them your own, too!

Psalm 31:24 says “Be strong, and let your heart TAKE courage; all you who wait for the Lord.” It doesn’t say have courage, it says take courage – like “Take your medicine!” In this case – take Christ! Keep on keeping company with Christ and ask Him to TAKE your fears and to embolden your courage. Ahh! Keeping company with Christ. That is the “sweet spot”. I also call it “My Peace Zone” (see my website: MyPeaceZone.com ). It may rather be a season than a spot, but it’s holding the hand of the Hope-Giver and Peace-Provider, knowing that God never wastes “spots” or “seasons”.

Life is unpredictable. One day we can be firing on all cylinders -- enthusiastic, energetic, hope-filled and everything’s going our way! Give it another day or two, and we’ve bottomed out, weary from the stress, lack-luster in our faith and our engine has stalled completely. But hold on! On those days, we quickly run to that SWEET SPOT of “being strong and TAKING courage -- holding on tightly to the Sweet Spot-Maker.

The “sweet spot” is often the middle spot – between the good times rolling and waiting while the storms pass over. The eye of the storm – so to speak. I’ve found that spot is hanging out with Jesus. When I’m traveling on long open roads (which I do often), I look forward to the next Rest Area where I can hit the restrooms, stretch my legs, and even, if need be, sit in my car and shut my eyes for a few minutes. It’s amazing how rejuvenated I can feel after – after the sweet spot – the rest stop!
And in this middle place of working through something in our lives — in the space between moving courageously and waiting for something to change— we can lose our gumption to function. Hope gets buried beneath 50 layers of defeated thinking, and we’re sure we’re making all the wrong moves. But, DON'T lose hope. You could be on the brink of a miracle.

I don’t know the details of your circumstances or situation, but if you are calling on God for help this day….please hear this.
Keep on keepin’ on. You’ve got this. TAKE courage, dear ones: the fight is not over. You have not lost. You’ve made it to the Sweet Spot, where the waters are about to part. Stand firm in the Sweet Spot and in the Peace Zone and TAKE courage!

Love is Being an Encourager

"Good Afternoon! Welcome to Moe's!" Like me, I’m sure you’ve taken notice of the fast food chains and stores whose employees shout out welcoming words when we walk in their doors! It may be scripted, but to me, it's encouraging! I was noticed! I also recognize it when a salesperson has been taught to be friendly and to look for something they can compliment their customers about: "I love your hair!" "Nice sweater!" In spite of their words sounding a little trite, it still gives us a feel-good feeling, doesn’t it?

I’ve had many encouragers in my life. At age 12, I remember my first babysitting job (50 cents an hour) taking care of a doctor’s two little ones – ages 3 months and 3. Their home was right across the street from ours, so the children's mom was assured I had help on stand-by if I needed it. I’ll never forget overhearing that mom telling my Mom: “Donna is so responsible for her age!” That made me want to be even more responsible. I’ll never forget, as a 13-year old, the choir director pointing out “You harmonize so beautifully." That gave me the confidence to belt out my harmonies even more. A friend said, " Donna, you have the most beautiful clothes.” That’s because my sweet mama, on a limited income, made sure that I wore trendy, beautiful clothes and she could do that because she was a great “deal” finder. I think that’s why, to this day, I head to the sales racks before I look at the full-priced items.

Today, I am an outgoing, avid writer, blogger, teacher and speaker because my husband encouraged me to speak publicly. He encouraged me to get my pilot’s license, real estate broker’s license and more. I had a boss who encouraged me to apply for a job that I didn’t have the required Master’s Degree for, but he knew I could do the job. I did and he was right. My Sweetheart passed way and I was surrounded by encouragers who literally lifted me up above the fray with their love and support.

And, now, the encouragement I receive from so many of you, my FB and blog friends and family that cheer me on in doing what I’m doing right now -- encouraging me to keep encouraging.
I was encouraged by others and I, too, became an encourager. That’s my point today, to say it’s time for us all to put on our Encourager Hats. It’s obvious how much our world needs cheerleaders and encouragers. I know, as I type this post, you get what I’m saying because you sense God’s gift within you. You’ve been through your share of heartaches and someone was there to encourage you, so you know like 2 Corinthians 1:4 says “So that you might comfort others with the same comfort that you’ve been comforted with”, you must encourage others. Now you are passionately aware that you’ve been called to speak up, reach out and lift up others. It’s not always easy because you don’t want to intrude or be a “know it all”, but that’s not what matters. What matters is you have something to give..

God uses people to encourage people. He's looking for available hearts to love and encourage the world around them. My hand is raised. How about yours?

1 Thessalonians 5:11 "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing"! Rise and shine, Encouragers! Let’s go encourage!

Encourage Others. Encourage Yourself.

I apologize in advance. I said that I wasn’t going to keep harping about my birthday, but the inspirations just keep coming. I was amused when my son turned 50 last year, and at his family celebration, his sons were playfully teasing him about his newfound midlife age of 50. They’d make remarks like “Dad, do you need help getting up the stairs?” While speaking really loud to him “Dad, can you hear me?” It was all in fun, but I remembered those words when I was turning 70. I was prepared to hear similar remarks but was pleasantly surprised that all of my family had such kind and encouraging words for me. Ryan was wearing a shirt on Sunday that said “Sundays” on it. Braden said, “Nana, be so thankful that you know what day of the week it is because Dad has to wear a shirt to remind him!” LOL! The most negative words I heard about me over the weekend were from me. I’d start to say something and lose my train of thought, and I’d say “Well, I’m 70 now. Get used to it.” Then I’d mentally spank myself for speaking negatively about my new age.

The second photo here is of a table with words on it that said: “70 Reasons Why I Love Nana”. (Check out our sweet Bentley photo-bombing!) Each one had written down encouraging words that were typed on cards for the table. Phrases like: “You are always smiling.” “You are so brave and led us parasailing!” “You are a Godly woman that shows us how to chase God!” “You are sooo much fun!” “You believe in me and help me believe in myself!” “You are the best Nana in the world.” “You take care of my animals.” “You are a prayer warrior!” Now, that’s what I call encouragement.

We live in a day and age when everyone wants a coach -- someone to spur them on – someone to be their cheerleader. But, in the meantime, if we don’t have those in our life, we shouldn’t just sit there, pining away because there are no cheerleaders in sight. We need to start being our own coach, cheerleader, and encourager by affirming ourselves: “Good job! Good Girl! Well done! You’ve got this! You nailed it!”

We should be encouragers to each other for sure, but it’s A-Okay to do that for ourselves, too. We need to coach our lips because we know that the power of life and death are in the tongue and we need to be careful with the words we speak to ourselves. We need to coach our head. The Bible talks about taking our thoughts captive. That’s so important, especially when our thoughts are running wild with negativity and worry and concern and we need to lasso them back into captivity. We need to coach our hands. What good does it do to have all the knowledge in our head of what God wants us to do and not do it? So many are looking for someone to rescue them, and with our hands reaching out, we can be the answer to someone’s prayer.

Our words should be filled with blessings -- words that affirm and approve; words that commend and compliment; words that specifically speak love and affection; words that invoke hope and self-confidence; and words that answer pain and disappointment with support and faith. May our words and actions bring light and life to our family and our world today. Let's be encouragers!

Life is Like a Roller Coaster

Life is Like a Roller Coaster.
I’ve been enjoying the photos shared by FB friends that are having the times of their lives on their summer vacations. They didn’t waste a minute getting their summer fun on! Some have made trips to the mountains and others made their way to giant roller coaster mountains at theme parks.

While on OUR vacation last week, I heard the news that should make everyone who has ever been afraid to ride a roller coaster feel better. A power outage at Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, Ohio left passengers on many rides stuck and a group of passengers was stranded on the Millennium Force Roller Coaster. And not just anywhere, but on the gigantic 300-foot-tall, record-setting hill. The park lost power when a car hit a utility pole. I heard a news commentator say “Aren’t we so thankful that it wasn’t one of those looping roller coasters and they got stuck upside down on the loop?” Thankfully, all the passengers survived with no injuries – but I can imagine there may have been some who threw up from utter fear and anxiety! It took over 45 minutes to restore power.

I've always loved the thrill of the craziest, wildest rides at amusement parks. Maybe that's why becoming a private pilot was no big deal for me. I wrote about that in one of my first blogs that shared the “roller coaster ride” faith journey that we were on.

For over 43 years, my husband, Ron, and I had many opportunities to encourage many people in their faith. We shared with many "When it comes to facing difficult situations in your life, just get on the roller coaster -- throw your hands up in the air, take the ups and downs and twists and turns.....and enjoy the ride!" Little did we realize when we shared that with others, we'd be getting on the "Big Kahuna" Roller Coaster, ourselves. Throughout my husband’s crusade against cancer, we remained constant in our faith. Each new day brought new hope AND new concerns. He’d make progress and then he’d have struggles. We found that with each doctor visit, test, treatment, and surgery (6), the ups and downs of it all, that God gave us new strength, encouragement, and peace.

We were on a roller coast. And we would climb, climb, climb and then encounter many twists and turns. It was tempting to get sweaty palms, white knuckles holding on so tight, but then, once again, we would remind ourselves, “God is in charge of the start and finish of this ride so we'll continue to throw our hands up in the air and enjoy this ride!" And, we did.

Life is a lot like a roller coaster and we will ride it with white knuckles and be holding on for dear life and sometime we may even feel like throwing up from all the twists and turns. Sometime we might even get stuck on an uphill climb. There will be other times when we will throw our hands up in the air, let the adrenaline give us the ride of our life and move into the twists, turns and ups and downs along the way. But, embracing the ride with a victory attitude will bring about the thrill of it all and at the end, we’ll yell “What a ride!”

She Needed a Hero So She Became One

The recent indiscretions of high profile men has been the topic of conversation lately. The good news is that women are “coming out of the closet” to reveal their stories that were hidden for years, for fear of loss of job or other consequences. They are stepping up to, hopefully, help other women stand up for making wrongs right. This post isn’t to express my opinion “on the news”, but it is to speak out on behalf of “sisterhood”.

Sisters, if ever we need our sisterhood, we need it today. To have friends that encourage us, cry with us, rejoice with us and pray for us is worth more than silver and gold. I do that a lot on Facebook. When I see friends’ photos of their child’s wedding, I rejoice with them. I celebrate with my friends when they celebrate the accomplishments of their family – the school wins, the graduations, the awards, birth of babies, and I also love it when friends are bold enough to ask for prayer. then I pray with them.

This photo says “She Needed a Hero, So She Became One!” I’m so proud of my friends, and even those women I don’t know, who aspire to being strong, resilient, determined, tenacious women and who say “I can do this. I can survive this. I am an overcomer. I am powerful – not because of my own abilities and my own self-talk – but I am powerful because the Greater One lives in me. (1 John 4:4) I am more than a conqueror.(Romans 8:37) I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)”

I learned very quickly, after I became a widow, that I had a choice to make. I could whine and I could wallow in self-pity because I didn’t have MY HERO to lean on or give me advice on important decisions, or to repair something around the house. I could have thought “I need a HERO to see after me!” If I stayed in that mindset, I would have never realized all I could accomplish, on my own. Now I know I am a wonder woman with wisdom and I will be powerful, passionate, positive, and, above all – peaceful. Rarely do I call out for help from anyone, but I also know my limitations. For example, I needed help pulling down that heavy, high attic door in my garage to bring down my Christmas decorations. I knew I needed some “man-power” to lift those heavy boxes and bring them down for me. Fortunately, both of my sons and grandson were my heroes on the day after Thanksgiving.

Honestly, there really are times I think about how awesome it would be to have a HERO again, like I once did, who I could go to for support and who would give me that extra hug, soothe my troubled soul, and boost me up with encouragement and compliments. But, I know I have God Who is more than enough. He is faithful to me. "Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation." Psalm 68:5. He lifts me up with His love. I may be alone, but I’m not lonely. He is for me and encourages me daily with His Word

Still, there are times when, it's up to ME to set ME free. It's up to me to apply the band-aids to my body and my spirit. It's up to me to change the channel of "pitiful me" to "powerful me". It's up to me to do what King David did. "When King David was greatly distressed; for the people spoke of stoning him, David ENCOURAGED himself n the LORD his God." 1 Samuel 30:6

There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother or mother or FRIEND and it’s ME. I never leave me. I never forsake me. I don’t EVER let ME beat ME up and I don't let me pity me. I put on my armor, pick up my sword and raise it high. I have come to realize I am my own HERO.

Yes…..there are times when we need a HERO......and that's when it's up to us to BECOME ONE! Excuse me, I most end this post, because I need to get my 6' ladder out to repair my garage door opener!