Posted in Uncategorized

How do you use social media?

How do you use social media?

How do I use social media?

Honestly… it started the same way it does for most people—keeping up with family, old friends, seeing who’s doing what, who moved, who aged, who still looks the same (we all know those people 😂).

But somewhere along the way… it got real.

Now I use it to talk about things most people don’t see.

Living with osteonecrosis, osteoarthritis, spondylolisthesis, and chronic pain isn’t just “oh my knee hurts today.”
It’s daily. It’s constant. It changes how you walk, sit, sleep, plan your day… and sometimes whether you even have a plan.

Some days I’m doing good.
Some days I’m negotiating with my own body like, “listen… we just need to get through the grocery store, that’s it.”

And if you’ve never had to hype yourself up just to go run a basic errand… count your blessings.

But here’s the thing I care about sharing:

Life doesn’t end because it changes.

You learn to adjust.
You learn what your body will allow… and what it won’t.
You learn patience real quick (whether you wanted to or not).

I use social media to advocate—because there should be better options, better understanding, and way more awareness than there is right now.

I use it to push people to speak up, advocate for themselves, and yes—call the people in charge when things need to change.

And I use it to share my faith… because I’ll be honest, I would not have made it through the pain, the stress, the grief, the financial struggles—without God. Not even close.

So if my page feels like a mix of real life, truth, encouragement, and a little humor in between…

That’s because it is.

This isn’t a highlight reel.
It’s life… just told honestly.

And if you’re going through something—anything—you’re not alone in it.

So yeah… that’s how I use social media.

What about you?

And let’s be real for a minute…

We also need downtime. Time to unplug, disconnect, and step away from the highlight reels. Because if you stay on here too long, you’ll start thinking everyone is getting rich overnight, aging backwards, and living an stress-free, perfectly filtered life, but you ……

Meanwhile, in real life… we’re reheating coffee for the third time and trying to remember why we walked into the kitchen.

Social media can be a great tool—but it can also mess with your head if you’re not careful.

And let’s talk about AI for a second… it can be used for a lot of good (clearly 😄), but let’s not pretend people aren’t already using it to twist stories, spread nonsense, or flat-out make things up.

So no… not everything you see or hear is real. Not even close.

At the end of the day, it still comes down to using these tools wisely, taking breaks when you need to, and remembering that real life—the messy, unfiltered, imperfect kind—is actually where the good stuff is.

Posted in Uncategorized

A Place to Be Still with God

A Place to Be Still with God

In a world that is constantly moving and filled with noise, we all need a place to be still. A place to pray, to reflect, and to meditate on God’s Word.

This place does not have to be a church. It can be a quiet corner in your home, your car before the day begins, or even a peaceful spot outside. What matters is not where you are, but that you are intentionally taking time to be one with God.

There is something powerful about having a private, holy, and quiet place. A place where distractions are removed, where your heart is open, and where you can speak freely with the Lord. In that stillness, you begin to hear Him more clearly and feel His presence more deeply.

Ephesians 6:10–18 reminds us to put on the full armor of God:

The belt of truth

The breastplate of righteousness

The gospel of peace

The shield of faith

The helmet of salvation

The sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God

And prayer in the Spirit on all occasions

We cannot fully prepare ourselves spiritually without spending time with God. Putting on the armor of God requires quiet, intentional time in His presence.

Your private place becomes holy not because of where it is, but because of what happens there. It becomes sacred when you kneel, when you surrender, and when you seek Him with your whole heart.

Whatever you accomplish in life begins on your knees, in prayer. Strength is built in prayer. Direction is found in surrender. When we do as God asks, He leads us into greater things than we could ever imagine.

You do not have to be inside a church to be close to God. You are being one with Him wherever you are.

So find your place. Be still. Be quiet. Be with Him.

And watch what God will do.

Posted in Uncategorized

Easter Sunday: More Than Eggs and Candy

Easter Sunday is often filled with bright baskets, colorful eggs, and sweet treats. Children laugh as they search for hidden treasures, and families gather to celebrate. While these traditions bring joy, they are not the true meaning of Easter.

Easter is the most important day for Christians. It is the day we remember that Jesus Christ rose from the dead—defeating sin and death, and giving us the gift of eternal life. Without Easter, there would be no foundation to our faith. This is the day that changed everything.

As it says in 1 Corinthians 15:17:

“And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.”

But He did rise—and because He lives, we have hope.

On Easter Sunday, many will attend church. Some will come dressed in their Sunday best, while others will come in the best they have. And that’s okay. What matters most is showing up with a heart ready to receive.

I do believe we should present ourselves respectfully. It doesn’t mean expensive clothing—it can be simple. A nice pair of jeans, a clean shirt or blouse is perfectly fine. But we should remember where we are going. Church is a place of reverence.

We should avoid clothing that is too revealing—short shorts, low-cut tops, or shirts with distracting wording. Not out of judgment, but out of respect. Ask yourself: Is this how I would dress if I were meeting God face to face?

Because in a very real sense… we are.

At the same time, not everyone will sit in a church pew. Some will watch a service online, listen on the radio, or spend quiet time in prayer at home. That is okay too. God meets us where we are.

As Jesus said in Matthew 18:20:

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

Easter is not about perfection—it’s about redemption.

It’s about the cross… and the empty tomb.

It’s about love so deep that Jesus willingly gave His life for us.

As written in John 3:16:

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

This is the heart of Easter.

So yes—let the children hunt for eggs. Let families share meals and laughter. But let us not forget the true reason we celebrate.

Jesus is alive.

And because He lives, we are given grace, forgiveness, and a new beginning.

This Easter, come as you are—but come with a heart that honors Him.

Sunday: More Than Eggs and Candy

Easter Sunday is often filled with bright baskets, colorful eggs, and sweet treats. Children laugh as they search for hidden treasures, and families gather to celebrate. While these traditions bring joy, they are not the true meaning of Easter.

Easter is the most important day for Christians. It is the day we remember that Jesus Christ rose from the dead—defeating sin and death, and giving us the gift of eternal life. Without Easter, there would be no foundation to our faith. This is the day that changed everything.

As it says in 1 Corinthians 15:17:

“And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.”

But He did rise—and because He lives, we have hope.

On Easter Sunday, many will attend church. Some will come dressed in their Sunday best, while others will come in the best they have. And that’s okay. What matters most is showing up with a heart ready to receive.

I do believe we should present ourselves respectfully. It doesn’t mean expensive clothing—it can be simple. A nice pair of jeans, a clean shirt or blouse is perfectly fine. But we should remember where we are going. Church is a place of reverence.

We should avoid clothing that is too revealing—short shorts, low-cut tops, or shirts with distracting wording. Not out of judgment, but out of respect. Ask yourself: Is this how I would dress if I were meeting God face to face?

Because in a very real sense… we are.

At the same time, not everyone will sit in a church pew. Some will watch a service online, listen on the radio, or spend quiet time in prayer at home. That is okay too. God meets us where we are.

As Jesus said in Matthew 18:20:

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

Easter is not about perfection—it’s about redemption.

It’s about the cross… and the empty tomb.

It’s about love so deep that Jesus willingly gave His life for us.

As written in John 3:16:

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

This is the heart of Easter.

So yes—let the children hunt for eggs. Let families share meals and laughter. But let us not forget the true reason we celebrate.

Jesus is alive.

And because He lives, we are given grace, forgiveness, and a new beginning.

This Easter, come as you are—but come with a heart that honors Him.

Posted in Uncategorized

Today is a sacred pause

Today is a sacred pause… a moment to step away from the noise of the world and truly reflect on what Jesus did for you—for all of us.

Good Friday is not just a day of sorrow, though it carries deep sorrow. It is a day of unfathomable love. A love so powerful that Jesus willingly endured suffering, humiliation, and death on the cross so that we could have life… eternal life.

He took on what we deserved—every sin, every failure, every broken moment—and bore it with grace.

“But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

— Romans 5:8

Think about that for a second…

Not when we had it all together.

Not when we were perfect.

But while we were still sinners—He chose the cross.

🌿 What Good Friday Means

Good Friday reminds us that:

We are deeply loved We are forgiven We are never alone in our suffering

Jesus understands pain. He understands betrayal. He understands sorrow. And through it all, He chose obedience and love.

“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.”

— 1 Peter 2:24

❤️ A Moment to Reflect

Take time today—just a few quiet minutes—to think about His sacrifice.

What does it mean to you personally?

Where have you seen His grace in your life?

What burdens can you lay at the foot of the cross today?

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

— Luke 23:34

Even in His final moments… He chose forgiveness.

🙏 A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus,

Thank You for the cross.

Thank You for loving me even when I fall short.

Help me to never take Your sacrifice for granted.

Teach me to walk in Your grace,

to love as You loved,

and to live a life that honors You.

Amen.

Today may feel heavy… but remember, Sunday is coming. ✨

The story doesn’t end at the cross—it leads to victory.

Take this day gently. Reflect. Be still.

And let your heart rest in His love. 💛

Posted in Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday: A Call to Draw Closer to God

Today is Palm Sunday already! Today is a powerful reminder of the day Jesus entered Jerusalem, welcomed by crowds who waved palm branches and shouted, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” (John 12:13). It was a moment filled with praise, hope, and expectation.

Yet, what makes Palm Sunday so meaningful is not just the celebration—but what follows. The same voices that cried out in worship would, days later, fall silent or even turn away. It’s a sobering reminder of how easy it is to be close to God in moments of joy, but distant when life becomes difficult or uncertain.

Palm Sunday invites us to examine our own hearts.

Are we walking closely with God daily—or only when it’s convenient?

Why Reading Your Bible Matters

God’s Word is not just a book—it is life, truth, and guidance. When we read the Bible, we learn who God is, how deeply He loves us, and how we are called to live. Without it, we are more easily influenced by the world—its noise, its fears, and its distractions.

A closer walk with God doesn’t happen by accident. It comes through intentional time with Him—through prayer, through reading His Word, and through seeking Him daily.

Even a few minutes a day can begin to transform your heart and mind.

God Wants a Relationship With You

No matter what you’ve done.

No matter where you’ve been.

No matter how far you feel.

God loves you.

He is not waiting for you to be perfect—He is waiting for you to come to Him. Palm Sunday is a reminder that Jesus came humbly, willingly, and lovingly… for you.

He sees you.

He knows your struggles.

And He desires a real, personal relationship with you.

Take a Step Today

Let today be more than just a date on the calendar. Let it be a turning point.

Open your Bible.

Say a simple prayer.

Talk to God like you would a friend.

Because that’s what He truly wants—a relationship, not just religion.

Hosanna—Lord, save us. And thank You… for loving us first.

Posted in Life

What strategies do you use to cope with negative feelings?

What strategies do you use to cope with negative feelings?

What strategies do you use to cope with negative feelings?

I used to turn to food when I felt stressed or overwhelmed. It wasn’t the healthiest way to cope, and I realized it was only a temporary comfort. I’m not perfect and sometimes I still slip into old habits, but I’m working on changing them one step at a time.

Sometimes life brings moments when negative feelings try to take over. Loneliness, chronic pain, grief,estranged family, and missing people we love can weigh heavily on the heart. These emotions can play tricks on the mind. One feeling can lead to another, and before you know it, months—even years can pass and you feel stuck in an emotional sinkhole that feels like it’s filling with quicksand. The harder you try to get out, the more it seems to pull you in.

To me, this can also be a spiritual battle.

There have been times in my life when I have felt stuck, or when these feelings come in waves. I noticed this all started when I was abused in my 1st marriage, it was a way to cope to control over something.

On those days, now I remind myself to slow down, breathe, and take care of myself—especially my mind and heart. A broken heart, a lonely heart, a grieving heart, or a life that seems to have more downs than ups can be exhausting.

One strategy that has always helped me is spending time in nature. When I was able to, I would take quiet walks by the beach. The sound of the waves, the fresh ocean breeze, and the peaceful view of the water helped clear my thoughts and calm my spirit. Nature has a way of reminding me that storms pass and peace eventually returns.

For the past seven months, however, I was unable to do that. Because I was in a walking boot, limited weight bearing; I couldn’t go for walks—no beach, no outings, nothing. During that time I had to stay indoors, so I turned to other things that helped. And yes sometimes I resorted from boredom to food. I also gained 15 lbs.

It was time to steer clear of the ship in a different direction.

Music became very important. Good music relaxes my mind, lifts my mood, and helps me process my emotions in a healthy way. I also listen to Christian talk radio, which is very uplifting.

Writing is great. It helps to get your negative emotions out, and work through things.

Back home in Ohio, another thing that helped was surrounding myself with the right people. Choosing positive company matters. I tried to surround myself with people who bring encouragement, understanding, and kindness—those who uplift rather than add more burdens.

Here in Florida, it has been very lonely at times. So lonely that sometimes you wonder why you even moved here. It certainly hasn’t been the close family experience we were told it would be. Some parts are fun, but if I’m honest, my husband and I sometimes feel more lonely now than before.

After seven months in a walking boot, I am still limited in what I can do, but thankfully I am now allowed short walks in the neighborhood.

Even these small walks help. The fresh air calms my mind and gives me space to think clearly. It reminds me that difficult seasons are part of life, but they do not last forever.

Another strategy I always turn to is prayer and quiet reflection. Talking to God helps me release the heavy emotions I’m carrying. It gives me peace and renewed hope that tomorrow will be better.

Finally, I try to focus on doing something positive—helping someone else or completing a small task I enjoy. Shifting my attention from the problem to something meaningful helps restore my strength.

Coping with negative feelings is not about ignoring them. It’s about facing them with patience, faith, and positive action. Through quiet reflection, music, nature, prayer, and supportive people, I eventually find balance again.

Negative feelings may come, but with the right mindset and environment, they don’t have to stay.

Posted in Uncategorized

From Fat Tuesday to Lent: Preparing Our Hearts for Renewal

From Fat Tuesday to Lent: Preparing Our Hearts for Renewal

Fat Tuesday, often filled with celebration, food, and joy, is more than a cultural tradition—it is the final pause before we enter the sacred season of Lent. As Christians, this day gently reminds us that life is a balance of feasting and fasting, rejoicing and reflecting. Tomorrow begins a 40-day journey that leads us to the cross and ultimately to the hope of resurrection.

Lent is not meant to be a burden, but an invitation. It calls us to slow down, examine our hearts, and draw closer to Christ through prayer, repentance, sacrifice, and acts of love. We may give up something we enjoy, but in doing so we make room for something greater—God’s voice, God’s presence, and God’s purpose in our lives.

Fat Tuesday is a reminder that earthly joys are temporary, but God’s grace is eternal. We celebrate today with gratitude, knowing that tomorrow we begin a season of spiritual renewal. Whether our sacrifices are big or small, seen or unseen, God honors every step we take toward Him.

For those carrying heavy burdens, chronic pain, grief, loneliness, or uncertainty, Lent can become a deeply personal offering. Each difficult moment can be placed at the foot of the cross, trusting that Jesus understands suffering and walks with us through it.

Let this Fat Tuesday not just be about indulgence, but about intention. Let it be the day we prepare our hearts, clear the distractions, and step into Lent ready to grow, heal, and be renewed in Christ.

Prayer for Fat Tuesday

Lord, on this Fat Tuesday, we thank You for the blessings of joy, provision, and the simple gifts that bring delight to our lives. As we prepare to enter the season of Lent, soften our hearts and draw us closer to You. Help us to release anything that distracts us from Your love and to embrace the spiritual renewal You desire for us.

Bless everyone reading this today—those who are celebrating, those who are struggling, and those who are quietly carrying heavy burdens. Strengthen the weary, comfort the grieving, heal the hurting, and remind each person that they are never alone.

Guide us into Lent with humble hearts, willing spirits, and a deep desire to grow in faith. May this season transform us, refine us, and renew us in Your everlasting grace.

Posted in Uncategorized

The Rev. Jessie Jackson

The world may not have always agreed with everything he said or did, but we must admit we have lost a great man—a godly man who stood up for people and their rights. He used his voice to fight for justice, dignity, and unity, and that kind of courage leaves a lasting legacy.

Let us honor him not just with words, but with action. Take something good that he stood for—kindness, fairness, compassion—and put it to work in our daily lives.

So many of us may carry certain prejudices for different reasons. Maybe something painful happened to you. Maybe it was bred into you by those who raised you. Whatever the reason, we can still choose to grow. We can still choose to take something good from what he stood for and let it shape how we treat others.

We are all the same in the eyes of our Heavenly Father. We all bleed red. We are brothers and sisters, no matter our color, religion, or faith. There is good and evil in this world, and it is up to each of us to bring out the good and stand firmly against the evil.

May we choose love, choose unity, and choose to treat one another with the respect and dignity every child of God deserves.

I grew up in Youngstown Ohio and got the privilege to meet Jessie Jackson in 1984 thanks to a family friend The Rev Lonnie Simon. He was funny , kind and loved all people.

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Faithful in small things

It’s amazing what God can do for a troubled heart when we learn to truly meditate on Him. Charles F. Stanley often spoke about this, and I’ve always appreciated his wisdom. As the founder of In Touch Ministries, he exemplified what a minister should be. Though he is now with the Lord, his teachings continue to bless so many, including me.

When motivation feels low, remember—motivation isn’t constant. It rises and falls, and that’s okay. Sometimes your soul is simply asking for rest, or the Holy Spirit is inviting you to slow down and be present instead of pushing yourself to produce. Yet there is also faithfulness in the small steps we take, even when we don’t feel like taking them.

So pause.

Feet on the floor.

Hands relaxed.

Take a deep breath and look around at where you are right now.

Ask yourself: What is the very next small task in front of me?

Not the whole list—just the next step.

You don’t need enthusiasm or guaranteed results. All God asks is that you show up in this moment with whatever strength you have.

Philippians 2:13 (NASB) reminds us, “For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.”

So when you go to work, try shifting your perspective from “I have to go” to “I get to work for the Lord today.”

Our thoughts shape our attitude, and small acts done for Him matter more than grand gestures.

Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:34, “Do not worry about tomorrow… Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

Today is what God has placed in your hands. He’s not asking you to move mountains—just to be faithful where you stand. The outcome is His. Showing up is yours.

Rest isn’t about having everything figured out. It’s about trusting a Father who sees, knows, and loves us completely.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for Your steady love. Help me to show up for the task or person in front of me today and to trust You with the rest. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Go gently into your next task, knowing God sees your willingness and honors your faithfulness.

Have a blessed day.

Posted in Uncategorized

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas.

Today is more than lights, gifts, and gatherings. Today we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Jesus was born in a humble stable, laid in a manger, welcomed by shepherds, and announced by angels. God chose simplicity and humility to bring His Son into the world. From the very beginning, Jesus showed us that His message was for everyone.

Jesus came not with earthly power, but with love, mercy, and compassion. He lived a life of service—healing the sick, caring for the forgotten, forgiving freely, and teaching us to love one another.

As we celebrate Christmas, let us remember that being more like Jesus is not just for one day or one season. We are called to help others, show kindness, and live with love every day—not only on holidays, but all year long.

May we carry the meaning of Christmas in our hearts and in our actions, remembering that hope was born in a manger and love came into the world through Christ.

Merry Christmas. May the peace and love of Jesus fill your heart and your home.