About the tine we moved, I received a call from a man in another state who I hadn’t known to let me know I made a difference in his life even though we had not previously spoken. He just wanted to tell me his story. I listened and we both cried.

Recently, I was able to connect friends with my previous pastor for counseling. Then, another friend contacted me for help with a loved one and I put them in contact with a counselor. I am still in contact with people who I was able to develop good working relationships with.

You never know who God puts in your path or the long term effects you can have on each other. One small gesture, smile or good deed can spread throughout the world. When it comes back to us, the world doesn’t seem so big after all and is a little closer to home.

This last year I’ve spent more time with God than ever. Maybe that’s what He wants. Maybe He put me aside so He could have me to himself for a while.

My talents may not be used if I’m in a job just for the purpose of a paycheck. My purpose in life is to build others up so they can be the best they can be. God didn’t give me a voice to write, speak, sing and teach just to be put on the back burner. So, I’m going to do those things regardless of if I see results.

So, to you my fellow job seekers, I wish you well in the search. May you find success and I will be praying for you.

I’ve had a year off from the working world. I don’t know how long that will last but eventually will be back in the hustle and bustle.

Besides being diligent in job searching, what have I done? Eplored my community, begun building relationships at church, thoroughly enjoy attending a job seekers ministry, volunteered, planted a flower bed with a lady at church, relaxed by the pool and cherished time with my dog and husband when he’s not working.

I’ve gotten to actually watch rain from my porch. I’ve listened to the sound of a fountain. I’ve watch squirrels scamper about.

I am not in a hurry. When I do return to work, I suspect I will move a little slower. I imagine I will listen more. Hopefully, when I come across agitated people I will understand they will work through it and just be glad it’s not me. Tomorrow, however long it lasts, I plan on enjoying it. See you by the pool.

Tonight, I said a special prayer for those not known. I pray that I am never in that situation.

When I was attending college, I had an elderly German professor who tried to tell his story. The class grew impatient because it was not the topic of that course. I think he was in a lot of pain. Recently, I contacted the school in hopes of tracking him down. I don’t think he was a Christian but I wanted to let him tell his story and listen.

For those underground, you are not forgotten. I have lifted you up in prayer tonight.

If we have to come away with anything positive from the experience, I would at least use it as a reminder that every word which leaves our mouth is one that cannot be taken back.

If our words paint a picture of our character, I want mine to be one that inspires rather than one that pollutes. While I am disappointed in a person, I will choose my words carefully before responding.

Although we must choose our words wisely, we also do not have to subject ourselves to unwanted exchanges in conversation. When possible, walking away may be the best choice.

There was a special feeling of adding beauty. It made my day special. I went home physically tired and a little sunburn but with a smile on my face.

I can’t wait to find our next little project. It’s nice to stop and smell the flowers in life.

I can’t imagine what it was like for those who were drafted in earlier decades. Even though those who enlist today have made a conscious decision, there will come a day when each faces fear. Along with our young people are also young people from other countries as well. Each has a mother or father somewhere praying for their safety.

May God be with each of you today. May integrity lead you. Give others the same dignity you would want in another’s shoes. We wait for your safe return.

It is very thought provoking. The topic is babies who survived abortion attempts. It also reminds us that we never know what people are going through.

As we go through life, we gain a little more understanding of the past and why people act the way they do. Ultimately, if we accept the redemption that Jesus offers, he can set us free. Even as Christians, we may still have struggles in life. That is why it is so important that we offer encouragement to others. Our words and actions impact more than just our own lives.

I can’t explain intellectually or scientifically to doubters or try to convince them of my beliefs. A common comment is that people who go to church are hypocrites. I am not perfect and no one is.

I do know that Jesus died for my sins. He died for every time I let someone down or made foolish choices. He lives to make me whole. He believes in you even if you don’t believe in Him.

May you have a happy Easter this Sunday.