The body always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is listening and doing what your body needs.
I was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis in 1997ish, Avascular Necrosis aka Osteonecrosis in my knee in 2014 and Factor V Leiden hetero, and Spondylolisthesis 2005ish
Health Advocate-Health Activist-World Changer
Love photography, cooking, hiking, walking ,traveling and learning to live a new normal since my diagnosis.
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Awareness for Avascular Necrosis & Other Conditions of The Bone and Joints
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Avascular Necrosis Awareness Day November 29 – working with elected officials to get this recognized in all states
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Today, we come together to recognize World Mental Health Day, a day dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of mental well-being. In a world that often rushes us along, it’s essential to take a moment to care for our mental health.
First and foremost, make self-care a priority in your life. Embrace practices that soothe your soul, whether it’s a warm bath, a good book, or a long walk in nature. Self-care is not selfish; it’s an act of self-love.
Exercise and nutrition are powerful allies in the quest for mental wellness. Regular physical activity releases endorphins, those natural mood lifters. Pair this with a balanced diet, rich in nutrients, and you’re nurturing your body and mind in harmony.
In moments of quiet reflection, prayer and meditation can bring peace and clarity. These practices help us connect with our inner selves and find solace in the midst of life’s challenges.
But let’s also remember that it’s perfectly okay to seek help when needed. If you find yourself struggling with the weight of your thoughts and emotions, reach out to a counselor or therapist. They possess the expertise to guide you through difficult times.
There is no shame in seeking professional help. In fact, it’s a courageous step towards healing. Just as we turn to doctors for physical ailments, we should seek support for our mental health without hesitation or embarrassment.
Let’s close with a prayer:
“Dear universe, grant us the strength to embrace our mental health journey. May we find solace in self-care, strength in exercise and nutrition, and serenity in prayer and meditation. And when we face darkness, may we have the courage to seek help and guidance. Amen.”
On this World Mental Health Day, let’s remember that we’re not alone in our struggles, and there is always hope for brighter days ahead.
Happy Magnificent Monday, everyone! As the new work week dawns upon many us, I find myself filled with a sense of gratitude and purpose. It’s a day that sets the tone for the rest of the week, and I want to share some thoughts and inspirations with you all.
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to get caught up in the routine of work, responsibilities, and the never-ending to-do lists. But as we embark on this new week, I’m reminded of the importance of dedicating our efforts to a higher purpose, a purpose that transcends the tasks on our desks.
One Bible verse that has always resonated with me and guides my approach to Mondays and every day is Colossians 3:23 (NIV): “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” This verse serves as a beautiful reminder that our work should be an offering to the divine, and it encourages us to give our very best, pouring our hearts into our endeavors.
But it’s not just about working diligently; it’s also about cultivating a spirit of gratitude. Practicing gratitude can transform our outlook on life. Even on the busiest Mondays, take a moment to count your blessings, big and small. Gratitude helps us find joy in the little things and appreciates the journey we’re on.
In addition to dedicating our work to a higher purpose and embracing gratitude, let’s also make an effort to be kind to others, especially strangers. We never truly know the battles someone else may be fighting, and a simple act of kindness can make a world of difference in their day. Kindness is a ripple effect; it not only brightens someone else’s life but also brings a sense of fulfillment to our own.
To encapsulate the spirit of Happy Magnificent Monday, I’d like to share a positive quote for the day: “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs
So, as we embark on this week, let’s remember to work for a higher purpose, embrace gratitude, and spread kindness wherever we go. Let’s make this Happy Magnificent Monday the start of a remarkable week filled with purpose and positivity. Have a blessed day, my friends!
In a world where integrity seems to be in short supply, my husband’s recent experience working for an animal bedding and wood fiber company highlighted just how crucial it is. Let me share some of his story, a testament to the importance of maintaining one’s integrity, even in the face of adversity.
My husband, a dedicated and hardworking heavy equipment mechanic and class a CDL driver, was the epitome of a loyal employee for this particular company. He consistently gave his all, working tirelessly without overtime pay, often logging long hours that ranged from 48 to 58 hours a week. Despite the lack of extra compensation, he remained committed to delivering quality service to the clients, earning their trust and respect.
When the time came for us to move a thousand miles away to be closer to family, he made the responsible choice of trying to give a 2 week notice to his employer even though many other employees just quit. The company’s initial response was filled with praise, acknowledging his exceptional work ethic and expressing their desire for him to return anytime. This recognition was well-deserved; my husband always gave 110 percent, earning the admiration of both colleagues and clients.
However, things took an unexpected turn after he submitted his notice, and finding out our Uhaul truck came a couple days earlier than expected. When my husband let the company know he cannot fulfill the full 2 week’s notice but will all but the 2 half days. As the company cut his hours to half days as soon as they got his notice. Which was also wrong.
The company’s owner, known for his temperamental outbursts, began treating my husband even more poorly, even suggesting he should leave immediately and told him to get out. So my husband did. Later the owners son called and despite what happened to him out of the blue my husband agreed to return and help with deliveries when they claimed to be short-handed. But again said our Uhaul arrived earlier than expected and since he isn’t getting full days hours suddenly we are not going to pay for a Uhaul and leave it sit.
Little did he know that this gesture of goodwill to come back and help them out would result in a grave injustice. Ohio law permits companies to reduce an employee’s pay to minimum wage if they don’t fulfill a full two weeks’ notice, a policy the company apparently readily utilized. My husband, requesting to be done just two half days out of eleven earlier , was hit hard by this policy, seeing more than half of his pay vanish.
This experience left us baffled and disheartened. It’s no wonder companies struggle to retain good employees when they resort to such tactics. Word travels fast, and reputations suffer when hardworking individuals like my husband are treated unfairly.
While this may be legally permissible, it certainly doesn’t make it right. It’s a stark reminder that companies should prioritize integrity, treating their employees with dignity and respect. Fair compensation for honest work should be the norm, not the exception. They didn’t even tell him they were doing this until he called to see what happened bro his pay.
Beware of shady companies, if they can cheat a worker they can cheat a customer.
I believe that karma has a way of balancing the scales, and that those who act unjustly will ultimately face consequences. Moreover, I have faith that a higher power watches over us and guides us toward the path of righteousness.
So my husband’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of integrity in the workplace. Companies that prioritize their employees and uphold their end of the bargain will not only retain their workforce but also foster a culture of trust and loyalty. After all, in a world that sometimes lacks integrity, it’s those who stand firm in their principles who leave a lasting impact.
And to the companies and states that do this to hard workers and allow this to happen
In today’s world, we often find ourselves facing unprecedented challenges. It sometimes feels as though rudeness and judgment are all around us, making it difficult to see the kindness and love that should define our interactions with one another. But in the midst of these struggles, there is a message of hope and acceptance that I want to share with you.
As someone who has faced judgment and hurtful words at one point or another, I understand the pain it can bring. It’s disheartening to encounter those who claim to follow a path of faith but seem to fall short of the compassion and understanding that we all need. However, I’m here to remind you that there is a source of unwavering love and acceptance waiting for you.
Jesus Christ’s message is clear: He loves you just as you are. You are not defined by the judgments of others or by the hurtful words they may speak. God created you perfectly, and His desire is to have a relationship with you, if you’re willing to invite Him into your life.
It starts with a simple prayer, like this one:
“Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner and that I need your love and guidance in my life. I surrender my life to you and invite you to come in and help me find my way. I am grateful for your sacrifice for me and for all of humanity. Thank you. Amen.”
If you’ve said this prayer, you’ve taken the first step towards a spiritual rebirth. Now, let me offer you some guidance on your journey:
Read the Bible: The Bible is a valuable source of wisdom and comfort. Start by reading passages that resonate with you, and seek to understand God’s message.
Find a Bible-Based Church: If you can attend a church in person, look for one that aligns with your beliefs and values. It’s a great place to connect with a community of faith.
Explore Televangelists: If mobility is an issue, consider tuning into the teachings of televangelists like Joyce Meyer or Joel Osteen. They can provide spiritual guidance and inspiration from the comfort of your home.
Practice Gratitude: Every day, take a moment to thank God for at least three things in your life. This practice can help you focus on the positive and cultivate a grateful heart.
Remember, I’m here to answer any questions you may have along the way. You are not alone on this journey of faith. May you have a blessed day, filled with the love and grace of our Lord.
Embracing Balance: Finding Peace Beyond Food Worries and Extreme Exercise
Have you ever woken up feeling the weight of worry about every morsel, every calorie, and every exercise you plan to do throughout the day? It’s a struggle many of us face in a world that often bombards us with ideals of what we should eat and how we should look. But what if, instead of being consumed by these worries, we could find a way to give ourselves grace and surrender our food choices, exercise routines, and even our lives to a higher power?
In a culture that places immense emphasis on “clean eating” and intense exercise regimens, it’s easy to become trapped in a cycle of self-criticism and exhaustion. We can get caught up in monitoring every bite, scrutinizing every morsel, and obsessing over every step we take. However, it’s important to remember that true well-being encompasses not just physical health, but also mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
The Bible speaks to this in the concept of inviting Jesus into our lives. Just as Jesus doesn’t force his way in but waits for an invitation, we too have the power to invite balance, grace, and surrender into our lives. By releasing the need for constant control and trusting in a higher power, we can free ourselves from the suffocating grip of perfectionism and extreme behavior.
It’s worth noting that taking care of our bodies is important. Our bodies are the vessels through which we experience life, and treating them with respect is an act of self-love. Avoiding harmful habits like smoking and illicit drugs, choosing nourishing foods, and engaging in regular exercise are all ways to honor the temple that is our body.
However, there’s a distinction between mindful self-care and becoming consumed by it. The pursuit of health should enhance our lives, not dominate them. Instead of scrutinizing every calorie and tirelessly exercising to “make up” for perceived dietary mishaps, we can find balance by practicing self-compassion and offering ourselves grace.
Here are a few steps to help you embrace this balance:
Shift Your Perspective: Acknowledge that you are more than the sum of your food choices and exercise routines. Your worth is not determined by them.
Practice Mindful Awareness: Pay attention to your body’s signals. Eat when you’re hungry, and stop when you’re satisfied. Engage in exercise that brings you joy rather than punishment.
Invite Surrender: In moments of anxiety or obsession, consciously surrender control to a higher power. Trust that you are supported and guided.
Embrace Self-Compassion: Treat yourself as you would a dear friend. Offer understanding and kindness when things don’t go as planned.
Cultivate Gratitude: Reflect on the many things your body does for you beyond its appearance. Focus on its strength, resilience, and capacity to experience life.
Connect with Your Spirituality: If you’re spiritual, engage in practices that deepen your connection. Whether through prayer, meditation, or reflection, find moments of peace and guidance.
Finding a balance between taking care of our bodies and nurturing our overall well-being is a journey worth embarking on. Embrace grace, release the need for extreme control, and invite surrender into your life. Remember that there is only one you, perfectly created, and deserving of gentleness and love. As you navigate this path, may you discover a renewed sense of freedom, peace, and appreciation for the intricate and beautiful person that you are.
In the intricate tapestry of human interactions, we often encounter individuals who appear as gentle as lambs but hide the cunning and motives of a wolf. These are the “wolves in sheep’s clothing” – individuals who present themselves as kind, personable, and friendly, all the while concealing ulterior motives to take advantage of your kindness and generosity.
The Deceptive Facade: A wolf in sheep’s clothing is a master of disguise. They employ tactics to gain your trust by acting innocent, soft-spoken, helpless, or even sick. They extend kindness and generosity your way, making you believe they are sincere and well-intentioned. However, beneath this facade lies a hidden agenda, a trap waiting to ensnare the unsuspecting.
The Importance of Discernment: Recognizing these deceptive individuals is essential. While kindness and compassion are virtues to uphold, they should not blind us to deceit. The Bible advises us to be kind but not foolish. It means exercising discernment, understanding that not everyone who appears virtuous truly is.
Bible Verse: Proverbs 14:15 (NIV) “The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.”
Proverbs 14:15 encourages us to be prudent and thoughtful in our actions. It reminds us not to be gullible or easily swayed by appearances. While we should extend kindness to others, we should also give thought to our steps, especially when faced with individuals who might be wolves in sheep’s clothing.
Protecting Your Kindness: Here are a few strategies to safeguard your kindness and generosity:
Trust Your Intuition: If something doesn’t feel right about a person’s behavior or intentions, trust your gut feeling. Intuition often serves as a reliable guide.
Set Healthy Boundaries: Maintain boundaries that protect your well-being while still allowing you to be compassionate. Don’t let anyone take advantage of your kindness.
Verify Claims: When someone presents a story or situation that evokes sympathy, take the time to verify its authenticity. Ensure your assistance goes where it is genuinely needed.
Seek Wise Counsel: If you have doubts about someone’s motives, seek advice from trusted friends or family members. They can offer a different perspective.
The cautionary tale of the wolf in sheep’s clothing reminds us of the importance of discernment in our interactions. While we should strive to be kind and generous, we must also be vigilant and wise. Proverbs 14:15 reminds us to give thought to our steps, ensuring that our kindness is directed toward those who genuinely need it. By being aware of the potential for deception, we can protect our hearts and our kindness from those with ulterior motives.
In a shrinking Oklahoma town, where jobs were disappearing every day. There lived a woman named Sarah. She hated Oklahoma especially the little town she was forced to live and grow up in as a kid. It caused her to have an attitude towards her parents because she wanted to live in a bigger city not some small town no man land. But her parents had a small farm and they loved the town. This gave her a big chip on her shoulder. And she vowed to leave as an adult and never return.
To the outside world, she was known for her kindness and compassion. She treated strangers with warmth and friends with generosity, but there was a dark secret hidden behind this facade – she harbored bitterness and resentment towards her parents.
Sarah’s parents were far from perfect, they were not rich but lived a rich life. They were successful farmers and made an honest living and they did their best to provide for her. However, Sarah couldn’t see past their imperfections. She judged them harshly, never missing an opportunity to hurt them with her words. Calling them poor farmers no class and she was angry because she wanted more. As the years passed, her cruelty towards her parents only grew, and she seemed to take pleasure in hurting their feelings often making them cry. She moved away at age 19 put herself through college even though her parents offered. She rarely called never came home and when they did speak she belittled them.
Tragically, Sarah’s mother passed away, leaving her feeling a sudden need to play the devoted daughter. But it was too late; people saw through her façade, having witnessed her years of cruelty.
When her father eventually passed away, Sarah expected to inherit whatever little they had. However, her father had other plans. He knew his daughter had never been there for him, so he left everything to those who had supported him through thick and thin. In fact, he passed away without her even knowing, so everyone saw she was not funeral, as she had told him to leave her alone, consumed by her own life.
As the truth of her parents’ last will was revealed, Sarah felt a deep sense of regret. She had been so busy being mean that she had missed out on the chance to create cherished memories and share laughter with her parents. They had never met their two grandsons, and their legacy was left to others.
The grandsons they never knew received half of their inheritance, and the other half went to those who had stood by her parents in their times of need. Their home was donated to a family in need, a gesture of generosity that Sarah could never comprehend.
It’s a somber tale, reminding us all that anger and resentment can destroy precious relationships that could have been beautiful.
Bible Verse on Anger: Ephesians 4:26 (NIV) – “In your anger, do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.”
Quotes on Not Becoming Bitter and Accepting Imperfection: a. “Forgiving is not forgetting; it’s letting go of the hurt.” b. “No one is perfect; we all make mistakes. It’s how we learn and grow that matters.”
Quote on Being Fake and Mean: “Being fake may make others smile, but being real makes your heart happy.”
Regret is a heavy burden to carry, especially when it’s the regret of being mean to our parents. We often think there will be time to make amends, but life can be unpredictable. Before it’s too late, it’s crucial to stop our anger and grow up.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing we’re better than others, but that’s a dangerous path to tread. None of us are perfect, and arrogance only isolates us from meaningful connections.
How would you like it if your own kids treat you like you
Remember, kindness and empathy are the foundations of a good life. Being mean to others will eventually come back to haunt us, just as we regret being unkind to our parents. Let’s choose kindness and understanding, for our own sake and for the sake of those around us.
In the complex tapestry of human relationships, there often lies a struggle between letting people believe in myths and sharing the harsh truth. It’s a delicate balance that many of us face, especially when dealing with individuals whose actions and character have been shrouded in deception or myth. Sometimes, the truth needs to be revealed, even if it’s uncomfortable, to prevent perpetuating falsehoods.
A Personal Journey: Many of us have faced situations where we’ve grappled with revealing the truth about someone’s character. Take, for example, the story of a past relationship, like the one experienced by the author concerning her first husband. In an attempt to protect her daughter, she initially refrained from speaking ill of him. However, as her daughter grew older, the truth inevitably came to light. The abuse, cruelty, and controlling nature of the ex-husband became apparent.
The Importance of Truth: In cases where individuals have inflicted harm, abused power, or lived dishonest lives, it’s crucial to acknowledge the truth. The truth may be painful, but it serves as a vital lesson for future generations. It prevents the dangerous myth-making that can occur when we overlook or sugarcoat the actions of those who have done harm.
Balancing Forgiveness and Wisdom: God indeed encourages forgiveness, but not at the expense of wisdom. It’s possible to forgive without being naive. Acknowledging the truth does not mean stirring up trouble or seeking revenge; it’s about learning from the past to ensure a better future.
Breaking the Myth: It’s not uncommon for society to elevate certain individuals to sainthood after their passing, even when their actions were far from saintly. This happens in cases involving abusive parents, criminals, or those who have harmed others. It’s essential to break the myth, not out of malice, but out of a responsibility to truth and justice.
Counting Blessings: Sometimes, not knowing one’s parents or grandparents may be a blessing in disguise. There could be compelling reasons why certain individuals were absent from one’s life. These reasons might include a history of abuse, addiction, or other harmful behaviors.
In the end, we should heed the lessons of our past and the guidance of our faith. While forgiveness is a noble virtue, it should not lead us to turn a blind eye to the truth. Revealing the reality of someone’s character, especially when they have caused harm, can be an act of compassion and a safeguard against perpetuating myths that can harm others. God calls us to be both forgiving and wise, striking a balance that ensures justice and a path toward healing and wholeness.
When I look back on my life, I’m often reminded of the countless times when God has intervened in ways that defy human logic. It’s a testament to the incredible power of faith and the unwavering belief that God can make anything happen, even when circumstances seem impossible.
I was given a wrong medication in May 1985 it was called Oxsoralen given by a doctor and the error of the pharmacy that allowed a Rx to be filled that should not have been almost cost me my life. I have to say that this Rx was not supposed to be filled as patient’s weren’t supposed to have this medication it was that dangerous. It was only to be applied by a physician to a patient who has a skin condition which I did not have.
And that was never told to me . The doctor wrote the rx out pharmacy filled it and well here is what happened to me …..
I was prescribed oxdoralen lition and tablets was told to apply to skin and stay outside for about 15 minutes this would help my skin tan faster. The doctor told me if I went to Florida as white as I was I would surely have burns that could cause cancer and ruin my trip. So I believed him and did exactly as instructed. However the very next day I could not open my eyes, I could not walk and I felt as if I was lit on fire. I had blisters on my calves of both legs that were the size of avocados. I called my dad my parents rushed my to local hospital and everything they tried just instantly melted on my skin burning it more. A doctor from burn unit said get weak dreft baby soap lay linen cloths in it and gently drape it on my burns. Days went by I was getting worse and they called in a priest who gave me my last rights. I asked to see my daughter who was only now 4. Just in case I died I could see her beautiful Angel face one more time.
She would know I didn’t just disappear but if God felt it was my time I wanted to say Goodbye. Tell her I love her etc… she was not able to sit on my bed for long as often my body would start shivering from hypothermia,
Thankfully my mom and dad did not lose faith the called a faith healed from a local church. She had to wear a white gown in my room, my burns were so bad and the blisters so large, my skin . started peeling looking like thin strips of jerky
In those moments when life’s challenges appeared insurmountable, I learned a valuable lesson – leaning on my own understanding often led to frustration. It’s human nature to seek logical solutions to our problems, to analyze and plan meticulously. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, there seems to be no way out in the natural realm. That’s when our faith is truly put to the test.
It’s during these trying times that I am reminded of the supernatural God we serve. He operates beyond the boundaries of human comprehension. He can make things happen that we, with all our intelligence and resources, couldn’t dream of achieving. It’s in those moments of surrender, when we release control and trust in His divine plan, that miracles occur.
One of the most beautiful aspects of faith is the element of surprise. God’s ways are not our ways, and His timing is often different from ours. When we relinquish control and place our trust in Him, we open ourselves up to the possibility of witnessing extraordinary events that we couldn’t have orchestrated ourselves.
Think about the biblical stories of parting seas, multiplying loaves and fishes, and even raising the dead. These events defy the laws of nature, yet they are the very essence of God’s supernatural power. They serve as reminders that no situation is too dire, no problem too complex, and no dream too audacious for our Heavenly Father to handle.
So, when you find yourself facing challenges that seem insurmountable, remember that you serve a supernatural God. Embrace the mystery of His ways, let go of your need for logical explanations, and trust in His ability to make the impossible possible. As you do, you’ll witness the incredible, life-transforming power of faith in action.
Hello and welcome to this amazing Sunday I’m so glad you’re here with me in sunny Florida. I appreciate your loyalty and support so much. In today’s post, we’re going to explore the Bible and see what God says about joy. And then we’re going to learn tons of ways to find joy in the ordinary as well as ways to find joy in the journey. There’s absolutely no reason that we should be unhappy in this life we lead. Yet most of us are. We’re so focused on the end goal, that we forget to enjoy the moments along the way. It’s time we changed that, don’t you think? So, let’s dive in.
I think this will stretch out over a couple posts, because there is a lot to say on this.
What is the difference between happiness and joy? Many people wonder if there even is a difference between the two. Let’s look at the definitions. Dictionary.com defines happiness as “the quality or state of being happy; good fortune; pleasure, contentment; joy.” I believe in this definition, the key word is “state.” I looked up the definition of state and found, “the condition of a person or thing, as with respect to circumstances.” In other words happiness is temporary and depends on what’s happening.
Joy, on the other hand, is defined as “the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; keen pleasure; elation.” If you are a child of God, that “something that is exceptionally good” comes from the Lord. Joy is part of who you are. It’s a fruit of the spirit. Your joy doesn’t go away when something bad happens, like someone cutting you off in traffic or having a bad day. In other words, it is completely normal to experience joy in the ordinary, everyday aspects of life. I believe that there is a very real difference between happiness and joy. Joy is a conviction from the heart that comes from the Lord. It’s an internal emotion that doesn’t change regardless of what’s happening on any given day. Happiness, on the other hand, is a surface-level emotion that’s based on external factors.
How can we be happy according to the Bible? The Bible has a lot to say about happiness, but it uses a different word: joy. Joy is not a feeling that depends on our circumstances, but a gift that comes from God. When we trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord, we receive the Holy Spirit, who fills us with joy and assures us of our eternal salvation. Joy is not something we have to work for, but something we already have in Christ.
One of the ways we can experience joy is by bearing the fruit of the Spirit. This means living in a way that reflects the character of God, who lives in us. The fruit of the Spirit has nine aspects, and joy is one of them. Joy is not something we do, but something we are. It is the result of following Jesus and staying connected to him.
Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
How can we enjoy the simple things in life? The Bible also teaches us to be content with what we have and to give thanks in all circumstances. This means that we can find joy in the simple things in life, not just in the big events or achievements. We can appreciate the beauty of God’s creation, the warmth of a cup of coffee, the intimacy with our spouse and the hugs from our children. We can slow down and savor the moments that make life meaningful.
One way to do this is to be more spontaneous and creative. We can break the routine and try something new. We can surprise our loved ones with a note or a gift. We can have a picnic in the backyard or a movie night on the couch. We can make every day an adventure and an opportunity to show love.
Life is not a destination, but a journey. And joy is not a destination, but a companion. Let’s enjoy the ride with God and with each other.
Joyful-Echoes 