Beauty from Ashes - A Continual Process

When HOPE is a blur, when it feels elusive, then what?  In my quest for answers, many of which I will never have until Heaven, I have leaned on faith.  But surely faith is tested!  Then what? Now faith is assurance of things hoped for, proof of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1 I challenged myself to read the book of Mark this Christmas season, and I can honestly say it was God who challenged me .  For many years I have talked about the Bible, the Word of God, as He describes it Himself in Hebrews 4:12, "full of living power."  I believe that with all my heart!  It's not a magic book.  It's a book, a letter, that God encourages us to read as a GIFT from Him.  He is the GIFT.   He. Is. The. Gift. What a gift then to read about WHY Jesus was born as a baby!  What a gift to see the HOPE that lies beyond the manger!   I even thought as I challenged others to read Mark along with me, that much of it would sound unbe...

Beauty from Ashes - A Continual Process: If you need Hope beyond the twinkling lights, a Ho... : Are you grieving during this Christmas season?  Please do not carry it alone.  You are not alone.  I too carry grief.  So many carry...

Please do not carry your pain alone.  You are not alone.  I too carry grief.  So many carry a quiet pain.  Part of it is a new normal that will always be there.  I'm learning to live with loss.  But often still,  that new normal can surprise me and hit hard without warning.  It’s  especially true for many during holidays.   There are many stages and time frames for grief, but one thing is true, it often hits harder at Christmas no matter where you are in your grief.  I say "holistic grieving" because grief affects the mind, body and soul.  Emotional, physical, and spiritual health are a package deal.  I/we need help in all areas. I've shared many times that I've take a maintenance anti-depressant for years because I'm predisposed to anxiety and depression (MIND), and I run to keep my fybromyalgia at bay  (BODY) .  Please don’t feel shame if you need a doctor, or counselor, and or medication. ...