Posted in Anger, Evil, Faith, Family Secrets, Grudges, Joyful-Echoes.com, Uncategorized

“Truth vs. Myth: Unmasking the Reality of People’s Lives”

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.

Posted in Uncategorized

Trusting in the Power of God

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.

Posted in Blogging, Hope, Joy, Uncategorized

Joy

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.

Part 2 will be posted Thursday

See you all tomorrow

Posted in Grateful, Grudges, joyful-echoes, Uncategorized

“Embracing Life’s Blessings: The Power of Kindness and Humility”

Hello, dear readers,

Today, I want to share a story close to my heart—one that reminds us that blessings come in diverse and unexpected ways. Life has an uncanny knack for teaching us lessons when we least expect it, and these lessons often revolve around the importance of kindness, humility, and the art of recognizing the blessings that surround us.

Recently, I found myself in the midst of a life-changing adventure—an interstate move across the country. As you might imagine, it was no small feat. Long hours on the road, aching joints, and the sheer physical toll of loading and unloading a U-Haul truck made for a challenging journey. At times, it felt like I needed a ladder just to climb into the truck’s cabin!

A family member recently offered to help us move to be closer to them, which was a chance of a lifetime, and after discussion my husband and I decided to take the journey from Ohio to Florida, and then we would be staying in a nice home.

And because of the long journey instead of me, being grateful I was ticked off just because I was in pain I was exhausted I was hungry. I was tired and it was wrong. I had no business being so mean.

But life has a way of delivering its lessons in pairs. As I traveled, my aching joints became a constant companion. Joint pain can be an unwelcome and persistent visitor, making even the simplest tasks seem monumental. I mean the Uhaul truck was a chore getting in and out of.

It was during this time that I realized the value of hiring someone to high-dust my new home, sparing me the discomfort of ascending a ladder. In this moment, a blessing took shape in the form of a service that lightened my load, both literally and figuratively.

However, life isn’t just about receiving blessings; it’s also about recognizing our own moments of imperfection. As I dealt with the physical and emotional toll of the move, I found myself succumbing to frustration and moodiness. There was a moment when I looked in the mirror and realized that I was far from the kind and patient person I aspired to be. In fact, I was acting quite the opposite—a “rotten human being,” as I put it. This self-awareness became the catalyst for another vital lesson.

I recognized that I was becoming a hypocrite—preaching kindness while failing to embody it myself. I had allowed the stress and discomfort of the situation to impact my behavior negatively. It was then that I understood the importance of acknowledging our own shortcomings and seeking forgiveness when we fall short of our own ideals.

So, here’s the takeaway: blessings can come in many forms, from the helping hand of a friend to the relief provided by a hired service. But these blessings are often intertwined with the lessons we learn along the way. We must be mindful not to take advantage of others, or be short with others especially during times of frustration or discomfort. We must remember that kindness should be our guiding principle, even when life doesn’t go exactly as planned.

As I continue on this journey, I’m making a conscious effort to practice kindness, not just in my actions but also in my words and thoughts.

I don’t usually go off the deep end like that.

Let’s remember that we’re all works in progress, and while life may test our patience, it also offers us the chance to grow. So, dear readers, may you all have a blessed day, filled with opportunities to embrace life’s blessings and to practice kindness and humility in all that you do.

Posted in Uncategorized

Navigating Relocation with Joint Pain and Arthritis: A Personal Journey from Ohio to Florida

Navigating Relocation with Joint Pain and Arthritis: A Personal Journey from Ohio to Florida
Relocating to a different state is never an easy feat. It involves a myriad of challenges, from the logistics of packing and finding a new place to live, to the physical demands of loading and unloading a large U-Haul truck. For those living with joint pain and arthritis, these challenges can become even more daunting. In this blog post, we’ll explore the painful realities of moving, share some personal experiences, and offer a dose of positivity to brighten your day.

The Painful Realities of Relocating:
Moving to a new state is a major life change, and it often comes with a whirlwind of stress and exhaustion. Here are some of the painful realities that many face during this transition:

  1. Physical Demands: The physical labor involved in packing, lifting, and moving boxes can take a toll on anyone. However, for individuals with joint pain and arthritis, it becomes an even greater challenge.
  2. Long Hours: Moving typically requires long hours of driving, sometimes across multiple days. Sitting for extended periods can exacerbate joint pain.
  3. Climate Adjustment: Going from Ohio to Florida means adjusting to a new climate. While the warm Florida weather can be inviting, it may also affect individuals with arthritis differently.

Coping with Joint Pain and Arthritis:
Living with joint pain and arthritis means being resilient in the face of challenges. Here are some strategies to help make the relocation process more manageable:

  1. Plan Ahead: Start planning well in advance. This allows you to pace yourself, breaking tasks into manageable portions.
  2. Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to seek assistance from friends, family, or professional movers. Sharing the load can reduce physical strain.
  3. Take Breaks: During the journey, make sure to take regular breaks to stretch and relieve stiffness.
  4. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for joint health. Drink plenty of water throughout the move.

A Positive Outlook:
While relocation can be physically and emotionally taxing, maintaining a positive attitude can make a world of difference. Remember that this challenging period is temporary, and you’re embarking on a new chapter of your life. As you navigate this journey, consider this positive quote:

“Every day may not be good, but there’s something good in every day.”


Relocating from Ohio to Florida or any long-distance move is undoubtedly a challenging endeavor, especially when living with joint pain and arthritis. However, with careful planning, support from loved ones, and a positive mindset, you can overcome these obstacles and look forward to a brighter future in your new home. Wishing you a great day filled with optimism and strength as you embark on this journey.

Posted in Uncategorized

Nurturing Faith: Trusting God Even When It’s Tough


In the journey of life, faith can be a steady guiding light that illuminates our path, offering solace and hope during both clear and stormy days. But there are moments when our faith is tested, when we find ourselves repeating the words, “I trust God… and some days I have to remind myself that I trust God…” This sentiment resonates with many, and it’s during those times of uncertainty and doubt that our trust in God becomes most vital.

The Complexity of Trust:
Trust is a complex emotion, often shaped by our experiences, beliefs, and the challenges we face. When life flows smoothly, trust can seem effortless, like a gentle stream carrying us along. However, it’s precisely when the waters grow turbulent that our trust in God is truly put to the test.

  1. Trust in the Face of Unanswered Questions:
    Life often presents us with situations where we lack clarity, where the “whys” and “hows” remain elusive. It’s in these moments that our trust in God must become unwavering. Trusting God doesn’t mean we’ll always understand His plans, but it does mean we believe that His wisdom surpasses our comprehension.
  2. Trusting God in Adversity:
    Adversity has a way of shaking the foundations of our faith. Whether it’s health challenges, financial difficulties, or personal setbacks, trusting God during these times can be a profound act of courage. Our faith is a source of strength, enabling us to persevere even when the odds seem insurmountable.
  3. The Role of Prayer and Reflection:
    Prayer and self-reflection can be powerful tools in nurturing trust during difficult days. It’s through prayer that we can pour out our doubts and fears, seeking guidance and solace from a higher power. Self-reflection allows us to examine our own role in the challenges we face and find opportunities for growth and resilience.
  4. Community and Support:
    Trusting God doesn’t mean we have to face life’s trials alone. Building a supportive community of like-minded individuals can provide comfort and encouragement during tough times. Sharing experiences and insights can strengthen our faith and remind us that we’re not alone in our struggles.


Trusting God, especially when we don’t fully understand why or how, is a testament to the depth of our faith. It’s a journey that requires patience, resilience, and a willingness to let go of control. In those moments when doubt creeps in, remember that you are not alone in your struggle to trust God. Reach out to your community, seek solace in prayer and reflection, and remember that even in the darkest of days, your faith can be a guiding light, leading you towards hope and renewal.

Posted in Uncategorized

Prioritize How Your Life Feels Over How It Looks: Embrace the Art of Authentic Living

In a world filled with the constant pressure to keep up appearances, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters – how your life feels. We often find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of striving for more, trying to match the lifestyles of our neighbors, coworkers, and friends. The pursuit of success and material wealth becomes a relentless race, and in this race, we sometimes forget to pause and appreciate what we already have.

Authentic Living: The Key to True Happiness

In our fast-paced society, it’s not uncommon to see people putting on fake smiles while dealing with the overwhelming stress of trying to keep up with others, especially those who seem to have more money, possessions, or success. We constantly compare ourselves to others, measuring our worth by external standards. But is this the path to a fulfilling life?

Authentic living encourages us to take a step back and reevaluate our priorities. It prompts us to ask ourselves: “Am I living a life that truly resonates with me, or am I merely chasing an image of success?”

The Pursuit of True Happiness

When we prioritize how our life feels, we begin to realize that genuine happiness doesn’t necessarily come from accumulating more things or outdoing our peers in a never-ending race. It’s about experiencing contentment, gratitude, and inner peace in our daily lives. It’s about savoring the simple moments, finding joy in the ordinary, and nurturing meaningful relationships.

Consider this: What good is a big house, a fancy car, or a prestigious job title if they only serve to keep us stressed and chained to a never-ending cycle of work to pay for them? We should aspire to live a life we can truly enjoy, free from the constant worry about appearances and the rat race of chasing materialistic goals.

Practical Steps to Embrace Authentic Living

  1. Count Your Blessings: Take time each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Appreciating the small things can bring immense joy.
  2. Set Meaningful Goals: Instead of chasing someone else’s definition of success, set your own meaningful goals that align with your values and passions.
  3. Practice Mindfulness: Be present in the moment, savoring the experiences and connections that make life beautiful.
  4. Invest in Relationships: Cultivate and nurture genuine relationships with people who uplift and support you.
  5. Financial Responsibility: Be mindful of your financial choices. Live within your means and prioritize experiences over material possessions.
  6. Self-Care: Prioritize self-care and mental well-being. Taking care of yourself is not selfish; it’s essential for a fulfilling life.

Its time to shift our focus from how our lives look to how they feel. Authentic living is not about keeping up with the Joneses; it’s about finding contentment and happiness in the life you create for yourself. Embrace the journey of self-discovery, and remember that the path to a fulfilling life is paved with genuine experiences, meaningful connections, and a deep appreciation for what you have. Start living authentically today, and you’ll find that true happiness is within your reach.

Posted in Uncategorized

Happy Friday!!

Happy Friday, everyone! We made it through another week, and for that, we are truly grateful. Thank God for His unwavering presence and the hope that carries us through each day.

As we reflect on our journey in faith, it’s essential to remember that having consistent and transformational encounters with God while on earth is at the core of the Christian life. Our faith is not built on mere rituals but on a living relationship with a loving God. Through the sacrificial love of Jesus, we have been filled with the Holy Spirit – a divine presence that continually draws us closer to the heart of our heavenly Father.

In this fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel isolated or overwhelmed, but we must always remember that we are never alone. The God who created the universe walks with us every step of the way. There is no place we can flee from His presence, and His love for us is unwavering.

Let this week be a reminder of our purpose – to seek God’s face and experience His transformational love. Through daily encounters with the living God, we discover the depths of His grace, the vastness of His wisdom, and the richness of His love. It is in seeking His face that we find our true selves, for He is the One who formed us, knows us intimately, and loves us unconditionally.

As we enter into this weekend, let us take a moment to reflect on the words of Psalm 100:4, which says, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!” In our gratitude and worship, we open ourselves to God’s presence, allowing Him to transform our hearts and fill us with His peace.

So, as we bid farewell to another week, may our hearts be filled with gratitude, and may we eagerly anticipate the transformational encounters with our loving God that await us in the days to come. Have a blessed and joy-filled weekend!

Scripture:“Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!”

Psalm 100:4

Posted in Uncategorized

Almost Time to Get the Moving Truck !!

Good morning, everyone! I hope you’re having an amazing week so far. It’s almost Friday, and that’s a reason to celebrate. Today, I want to talk about “Thankful Thursday.” Tonight, we’re picking up our trailer, and tomorrow, we’re going to start loading it up on “Fantastic Friday.” The we have to go back yo U-Haul Saturday and load our car hauler, unless it comes in sooner. They have it set up for Friday afternoon so fingers crossed it arrives on time.

Hopefully, by then, we’ll have everything together so we can hit the road sometime on Start New Saturday.” This marks the beginning of a brand new journey for Tom and I, and it’s going to be nothing short of amazing. We’re moving closer to our granddaughter, daughter, and friends scattered throughout Florida.

We’ve made a decision for this move – since we’re taking a U-Haul, a car hauler, and quite a substantial load, we’re not going to rush anything. Hauling such a load, especially through mountains and traffic, can be challenging. My husband is experienced with this, but we know the importance of taking our time. We won’t push ourselves to drive to exhaustion. When we’re tired, we’ll stop, eat, stretch, and in the evening, decide if we want to keep going or stop for the night.

So, if I don’t pop on here in a day or two, rest assured, I’ll be back with an update. I wish you all an amazing rest of the week and hope you make it a great weekend. Peace.

Now, let’s find inspiration in two positive quotes:

  1. “Relocation is not just about changing your home. It’s about changing your dreams, your hopes, and your life.” – Unknown
  2. “Starting anew in a different state is like opening a new chapter in the book of life, filled with blank pages ready to be written with your adventures and stories.” – Author Unknown

And let’s also draw strength from two Bible verses:

  1. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)
  2. “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.” – Psalm 28:7 (NIV)
Posted in Blessed, Uncategorized

Rejoicing in the Blessings of Employment on this Beautiful Thursday

Title: “Rejoicing in the Blessings of Employment on this Beautiful Thursday”

This is the beautiful day a Thursday, that the Lord has made, and it’s a day worth rejoicing in. As the workweek approaches its end, let us take a moment to reflect on the significance of having a job and the blessings that come with it.

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to get caught up in the routines and challenges of work. We wake up early, commute, meet deadlines, and sometimes face the stresses of our jobs. It’s during these moments that we may forget the immense blessing of having employment.

Having a job is more than just a means to earn a living; it’s an opportunity. It’s a chance to contribute to society, to grow personally and professionally, and to make a difference in the lives of others. It provides us with stability and a sense of purpose, and it allows us to support ourselves and our loved ones.

On this beautiful Thursday, let’s take a moment to show our gratitude for the jobs we have. Here’s a reminder of the importance of gratitude:

“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” – Melody Beattie

Gratitude has the power to transform our perspective. When we express gratitude for our employment, we not only acknowledge the blessings of the present but also create a positive vision for our future.

Consider the countless individuals who are seeking employment, longing for the stability and opportunities that come with having a job. Our employment is a privilege, and by being grateful for it, we honor this privilege.

Furthermore, as we approach the end of the workweek, let’s take a moment to reflect on our accomplishments. Celebrate your hard work and dedication. Recognize the challenges you’ve overcome and the goals you’ve achieved. Each day at work is a step forward, an opportunity to learn and grow.

In the midst of the fatigue that sometimes accompanies the workweek’s end, let us not forget the blessings of employment. As we embrace this beautiful Thursday, may we rejoice in the opportunities it brings, show gratitude for our jobs, and carry the positive spirit of thankfulness into the days ahead.

Remember, every day is a gift, and having a job is a blessing. Rejoice and be glad in it!