Welcome Back. As this is my first entry in almost a year, I started to fill it with excuses rooted in the harsh reality that has encompassed quite possibly one of the most painful seasons I’ve encountered since losing my husband over a decade ago. Raw anguish. Deep grief. Hopelessness. Those have been the descriptors of most of the past few years. Writing was the furthest thing from my mind. I just could not bring myself to document what was literally killing me. So I ran. I ignored the incessant urge to surrender to my calling, and went into survivor … Read More
I Thought It Would Be Better By Now
Grief and pain can look like this…tears aren’t always a precursor to depression and utter sorrow. Sometimes, it looks like a well coifed and dressed, faith-filled, prayer warrior. Just because I trust God, doesn’t mean I’m immune to pain or that I don’t fear what I can’t see. Believing in Christ doesn’t make tragedy skip my address; sometimes it seems to turn the porch light on for it-if I’m honest. Walking with Christ means that I’m close to Him in every way, I experience intimacy and joy like I never knew possible, but I also know terror, fear, and heartbreak … Read More
Lessons from the Storm
Have you been riding the Game of Thrones train? No spoilers ahead in case you haven’t; I was recently introduced to the collection and can’t believe it took me this long. (hand on face emoji) I have actually been attempting to read the series and watch it simultaneously…definitely not as easy as I had previously envisioned, but oh so worth it. One of my favorite and main characters is Daenerys Stormborn of the House Targaryen, First of Her Name…continued with a list of about 8 or more other titles. Her “middle” name of sorts, Stormborn, immediately captured my attention. She … Read More
To All the Grieving People This Christmas…
I cannot believe Christmas is next week! As the holiday buzz takes over the mainstream, I can’t help but empathize with those for whom this season will never be the same again. For some, it’s a growing sense of dread at the reality that there will be one or more empty chairs around the Christmas tree. For others, it’s a marker that indicates just how long it’s been since their loved one departed and the hole in their heart was first formed. How can this holy season of a Promised Child, invoke such pain and loneliness? The reality is, it’s … Read More
It’s Ok To Not Be Ok
Can you believe that we’re almost halfway through 2018?! Are you where you thought you’d be by now? Do you feel as you’ve just been powering through your goal list and are actually contemplating adding some more? Has this been your year of breakthrough? If so, I am overwhelmed with joy for you. I pray that you continue to receive and savor all that you’ve hoped and trusted God for. I pray a hedge of protection, peace, and love surround and keep you in all your ways. If you’re not quite there, don’t despair; you’re not alone. I’ve actually found … Read More
The Perfect Storm
These past few days, the D.C./Maryland/Virginia areas have experienced an incredible amount of rainfall, record flooding, and lightning storms. One day, the sun is shining and the birds are singing. Break out the flip-flops and sundresses, it is June after all, we’re steps away from summer. Yet suddenly and with little warning, the clouds darken, thunder rumbles, and lightning threateningly brightens up the sky for miles ahead. In the short distance to my front door, I face an immediate wardrobe change- if I have any hopes of retaining my anti-rain hair and shoes. In an instant, my plans can change, … Read More