Tag: amwriting (Page 2 of 6)

Let Your Heart Be Not Troubled

May 3, 2022 / Chiara

Was it a coincidence or divine intervention?

The other day I happen to hear on the radio the song, “It is well,” twice by the same artist. Some would say, “Doesn’t the station have other songs to play?” I might have agreed, but this time, the song has come during a perfect storm in my life. I was moved to heed the nudge from God.

Music has always been my therapy and encourager. Facing this difficult family medical season, I felt comforted in knowing that God is in control even through my sufferings. I hummed the melody all afternoon and suddenly wondered who sings this beautiful song. I first looked up the singer, Kristene DiMarco. Her voice is so soothing. Please watch the video.

Secondly, I’ve often heard the Biblical expression, “It is well with my soul”. Was there any connection with the song? So, I looked up the phrase. What I found was an amazing story of faith in the midst of trial and one woman’s perseverance to overcome her adversity. The story of the Shunammite Woman’s Suffering in 2 Kings 4:8-37.

Here are two resources that break down the meaning behind the story.

A. The Shunammite Woman’s Faith

B. It Is Well With My Soul

What I didn’t expect to learn was how the words “It is well with my soul” became lyrics to a song. The author of the hymn was Horatio Gates Spafford. Mr. Spafford was a wealthy Chicago lawyer with real estate holdings along Lake Michigan. He was influential in elite circles and he and his wife, Anna, were also close friends with D.L. Moody, preacher, and founder of the Moody Bible Institute and Moody Press, publications of religious books.

Even with all his wealth and fame, tragedies struck the Spafford family. First, losing their only son, Horatio Jr. to scarlet fever in 1870, his real estate holdings were destroyed in 1871 by the Chicago Fire, and then losing all four of his daughters in a ship collision set for England in 1873. Fortunately, Anna was saved and found floating in the ocean on a plank of wood. After being rescued, she would write her husband a telegram, saying, “saved one”.

How much sorrow can one human endure?

Mr. Spafford later boarded another boat to England to comfort his wife. As the ship sailed across the Atlantic, the captain passed over the same area in which the boat that Anna was on sank, killing his daughters and all 226 passengers. Grief-stricken, Horatio penned the words, “It is well with my soul”.

Bloom, Baby Bloom!

April 29, 2022 / Chiara

Do you know what kind of flowering plant this is? I’m not a botanist or horticulturist, nor do I have a green thumb, but every year this flowering plant blooms for seven to ten days, and then it’s done.

It amazes me how this one plant spends three seasons of preparation only to bloom for such a short time. To think this plant’s purpose is to flourish and fragrant the air, and then to be taken up in the spring wind to pollinate other flowers.

It makes me think of us, humans. We all bloom at a different pace. Some take a lifetime to bloom, some never bloom, and others bloom right away.

Wherever you are in your blooming season, don’t rush. You are where you need to be. Nourish yourself; grow in knowledge, so that others can be blessed in your blooming season.

If I Never Wrote Again

March 23, 2022 / Chiara

Do writers retire from writing? I know people retire from their jobs, but can writers stop writing?

These questions have gotten me thinking about my writing future. I’ve published four books in six years, but the actual story-writing time for each novel has spanned a couple of decades. The fruits of my labor have often been delayed, but I still managed to get it completed and in print, that’s the best achievement in my passion for tale-telling.

It amazes me how authors can pump out a book a year, like James Patterson, Danielle Steele, David Baldacci, Jodi Picoult, etc. I’ve heard, and I can’t confirm, that some of these talented published authors have teams of writers. If so, that is terrific, their name and style of writing is an attractive niche for many readers.

I don’t know how I’d handle the pressure of producing a book every six months to a year, never having experienced it. Some will tell me to suck it up and say, writing for publication isn’t a hobby, but a real business with money-making potential. I believe that too, however, what I’ve learned is that real story successes start with an awesome storyline and a good backing by agents and publishing houses. One of my favorite success stories of independent publishing is on William Paul Young, author of “The Shack”. What began as a Christmas gift to his kids, ended up being passed along to friends and then strangers, and then publication. Watch the interview here.

I’ve been writing since I was fourteen years old, and professionally as an adult the last ten years (blogging, book reviews, short stories, etc.), including my first publication in 2014. As an independently published author, I don’t have agents or publishing houses giving me deadlines. This can be good or bad depending on how you look at it because I have to manage my own time.

I’ll digress a moment, in my previous profession as an Instructional Designer; I also trained corporate employees on Time Management. I’ve incorporated those tools I taught to keep myself accountable when I’m writing; it’s not an easy task. So, my writing pace is slower, as my priority is raising my children. Would I like to dedicate more time to writing? Heck, yes! And include more reading time too!

Life has a way of throwing curves. I’ve had a few changes in the past and present that have stopped me short of moving beyond the roadblocks. When it happens, I question my dreams and aspirations. I’m not one to give up easily, but when my burdens become bigger than what I can handle, I wonder if it’s time to reevaluate the road I’ve been traveling on. Which brings me back to the second question at the beginning of this post? Can a writer stop writing? Some will argue that writers are born with the gift of writing; others will disagree and say that it is a learned passion. In both cases, if the writer stops, aren’t they squashing their devotion for the written word?

“I have two addictions/passions: reading and writing. I feel restless and empty when I can’t read fiction, write my deepest thoughts in my journal, or even write down story ideas. Writing calms me, centers me, and provides a healthy outlet for my communication with imaginary friends.”

Without my writing gift, I believe I am nothing because the world says so until I read a scripture verse in the Bible about gifts. The three greatest gifts are Faith, Hope, and Love. Love is the greatest gift of all to another. See 1 Corinthians 13:13.

I am more than my writing because God says so in the following scriptures:

Luke 12:7 – But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.

Mathew 10: 30 – But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.

1 John 4:16 – And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him.

1 John 4: 19 – We love Him because He first loved us.

I guess the question is… Would it matter to ME if I didn’t write anymore? Hmm… only I can answer this.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+13%3A13&version=NKJV

https://outreachmagazine.com/interviews/20995-the-shack-movie.htmlhttps://www.oprah.com/own-super-soul-sunday/the-story-behind-william-paul-youngs-best-seller-the-shack-video

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+13%3A13&version=NKJV

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Shack

Photo by Suzy Hazelwood from Pexels

The Fortress in Your Mind

March 4, 2022 / Chiara

This is a story about Bernard and his dad, Miles Kingston. They lived in a big city. Bernard’s life was great. He went to a good school, had lots of friends, and he, his mom, and his dad had all the freedom one can ask for.

When his mother, Clarissa, passed away from cancer several months earlier, his father became very troubled and lonely. A war was waging in their country, and a debilitating virus was going through their towns, city, and the rest of the world.

So, Miles decided to sell everything and move out to the country with his son, figuring if they were far enough away, they wouldn’t have to deal with the woes of the world. Mr. Kingston had a tall, brick fortress built to protect them from the enemies of the outside world. He and Bernard planted a garden, created a water supply system underground, developed natural medicinal remedies from the soil, and had enough firearms to protect a community, rather than two individuals living in a giant structure.

Once again, Bernard had everything, but soon he too became forlorn. He had no contact outside of the walls of their new home, no more friends because they’d died of the virus,and no more formal education except what his father taught him. His dad often reminded him how lucky they were to have the means of protecting their bodies and livelihood, and he should be grateful for that. They heard about regular folks suffering outside their property, but they kept to themselves. Nothing would ever come and hurt them.

One night, Bernard awoke with a thirst and found his father sitting by the window with several rifles lying on the floor around him.

“Father, why are you up?”

Mile’s blood-shot eyes gazed at him, “I have to keep awake to protect us.”

Bernard was puzzled. “What do you mean?”

His father stuttered, “Can’t you see the virus in the air? Look through the window. You see it floating around?”

The boy peered through their triple-pane glass window. He saw nothing except a crescent moon. “I don’t see—“

“Quiet!” Miles hushed him and yanked him to the floor. “Did you hear that? We can still be seized. The enemy is coming to get us.”

Bernard was still confused. “Father, there is no one outside. Come,” he motioned. “Let’s go to bed.”

Mr. Kingston pulled away. “No!”

Bernard stood. “If you’re so afraid, why did you build this gigantic fortress and isolate us from everyone?”

His father fixed the rifle under his chin.

“What are you doing?” Bernard lunged and tried to wrestle the rifle from his father.

“I’m always afraid,” Miles answered, and pulled the trigger.

MORAL OF THE STORY: If your mind thinks it, your heart will act upon it. Protect your mind at all costs.

Proverbs 23: 7 – For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.

Mental health awareness is a real thing. SEEK HELP! You are worth it! For more information, click here.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE ENCOURAGEMENT:

Philippians 4:8 – Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

2 Timothy 1: 7 – For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Ephesians 6: 11-18 – Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

Mathew 10:28 – And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

Mathew 12: 43-45 – When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none. Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.

Mark 3: 30 – Because they said, He hath an unclean spirit.

So, What’s Your Word of 2022?

January 25, 2022 / Chiara

Okay, so I’m late to the party, I know, but it’s still January. Drum roll, please… Here is my post on “My Word of the Year”.

My word of the year is Revive.

Dictionary.com defines Revive as:

Verb (used with object), re·vived, re·viv·ing.

To activate, set in motion, or take up again; renew: to revive old feuds.
To restore to life or consciousness: We revived him with artificial respiration.
To put on or show (an old play or motion picture) again.
To make operative or valid again.

Verb (used without object), re·vived, re·viv·ing.

To return to life, consciousness, vigor, strength, or a flourishing condition.
To recover from financial depression.

I’ve been doing “word of the year” for a bit now and find that it grounds me, focuses me, and reminds me throughout the year (the meaning and why I chose that word) when I forget “my word of the year”. I know some people do “word of the month” or “word of the week”, etc. Two years ago, in 2020, my word was RESTART, in 2021, my word was RESET. I happen to write a blog on RESET too. And now this year, 2022, my word is going to be REVIVE.

I know what you’re thinking? What gives with all these “R” words? I can’t honestly tell you, except maybe I like the alphabetical letter “R”.

Why REVIVE?

Two reasons:

The Bible scripture of Ezekiel 37:1-14 is “Valley of Dry Bones”. It conjures such a vivid image in my mind that I happen to find a picture similar online, see below. To me, this scripture is an awakening, a reviving of those things that are important. I’ve been feeling a little dry, and a little out of sorts. I need a NEW breath in my bones. I need an awakening of ideas and thoughts that have been “asleep”. And so, I need this word, REVIVE, more than anything to jump-start me to action. Click here for a great article that explains the scripture.

For those that don’t know, I read the Bible from cover to cover, Genesis 1:1 to Revelations 22:21. I started it as a Bible in January 2019. It took me two years and two weeks to finish reading in February 2021. I documented my reading experience and that story was covered in a local Christian magazine, called Christ Is Our Hope. Click here to read it.

A great song by one of my favorite Christian bands, Casting Crowns, off of their album, Only Jesus, titled: “Awaken Me”. When I first heard the song, it referenced Ezekiel 37: 1-10. It made sense that it was about breathing into the bones that were dead. However, as I listened to the song over and over again, and read “Chapter 4: A Beautiful Thing”, the book version of the CD, Only Jesus. Here, I realized that this song has themes from many Bible scriptures. Such as:
1. Luke 15: 11-32. The story of the Prodigal son who realized his errors and returned home to his father after squandering all his money.
2. Ephesians 5:13-14. Comparing God’s truth to a bright light.
3. Isaiah 6: 5-7. Only God can clean your unclean lips and change you.

Here is the Youtube video of “Awaken Me”. Then, watch the video from Mark Hall that explains the meaning behind the song.

The book is available via Amazon.

“Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.” Ephesians 5:13-14.

For the last two years, my heart has been stirred to look at my Bible more for guidance and direction in my life for help with my relationships with my husband and daughters. I’m finding myself growing spiritually and reviving my soul in God’s Word.

In August 2021, a thought crossed my mind and I had to write it down. Here it is:

“I can’t unknow what I learned to know about the Truth of Jesus Christ.”

This statement is very true. I am NOT ASHAMED of who I’m becoming—a saved, born-again believer in Jesus Christ. I can’t go back to who I was before. Little by little, the TRUTH is being manifested in my everyday life. I have been REVIVED.

Do you have a “special” word? Drop me a line and let me know.

References:

https://www.dictionary.com/browse/revive

https://knowingscripture.com/articles/dry-bones-and-the-resurrection-of-the-dead-ezekiel-37-1-14

When Life Throws You Curves…Christ is Our Hope Magazine Article

Resetting the Restart

The Christmas Bells Revelation

December 22, 2021 / Chiara

If this was to be my last blog post on this Earth, I’d echo these words.

Peace on Earth and goodwill to men! (Luke 2:14)

A couple of weeks ago, my family and I had the opportunity to attend the KLOVE Christmas tour featuring Casting Crowns and a number of other bands on their tour here in Illinois.

We’ve seen Casting Crowns in concert at least seven times. They are an encouraging and wonderful band that writes incredible and inspiring music.

After playing a few familiar songs from previous albums, Mark Hall the lead singer of the band introduced his next song, I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day. I recognized the song and have heard it sung many times before, but I didn’t know the history behind it and how it came to be. It’s a powerful and emotional song based on the 1863 poem “Christmas Bells” by American poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

Before playing the song, Mr. Hall shared the story behind the poem. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was inspired to write this poem in 1863 during the Civil War when his son went off to fight for the Union against his wishes. While this song is about Christmas time, there is an underlying tone of the war (The Wrong shall fail, The Right prevail). It was not until 1872 that the poem is known to have been set to music by the English organist, John Baptiste Calkin.

In the poem, Mr. Longfellow hears explosions, cannons, and then off in the distance, church bells ringing. It was an ironic/odd sound amidst a terrible war as Henry heard these words: Peace on Earth, goodwill to men. Did he imagine it? Was it mocking him? Was the ringing encouraging him? Who knows?

Read the lyrics for yourself:

I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old, familiar carols play,
and wild and sweet
The words repeat

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

And thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along
The unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

Till ringing, singing on its way,
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime,
A chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

Then from each black, accursed mouth
The cannon thundered in the South,
And with the sound
The carols drowned
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

It was as if an earthquake rent
The hearth-stones of a continent,
And made forlorn
The households born
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

And in despair I bowed my head;
“There is no peace on earth,” I said;
“For hate is strong,
And mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!”

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
“God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The Wrong shall fail,
The Right prevail,
With peace on earth, good-will to men.”

One blog writer says… Throughout the poem, Longfellow contrasts Christmas with the idea of the war in an honest and memorable way that helps take the reader into the mind of this troubled father and American during that terrible war.

Another writer put it… In the same way, listening to “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” helps us to understand the gravity of sin – the way it permeates our world.

My favorite is Verse 6:

And in despair I bowed my head;
“There is no peace on earth,” I said;
“For hate is strong,
And mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!”

With all the high-tech and medical miracles in this world, there is something to marvel and be in awe over. But, there are ironies to having it all too. The simple things in life are ignored. We’ve strayed from the true reason for the season. Commercialism and greed have taken over. Add to that, Covid, Omicron, tyrannical government, and divisiveness among people that are vaccinated and unvaccinated, and frankly, we’re in a mess. Chaos is everywhere.

I love Christmas. When I was a child it was all about the gifts. I realize in my later years, this season has become about the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! A baby born into an oppressed world, a peasant girl as his mother, and a child birthed in a barn full of farm animals – a lowly King that would change everything.

This can be summed up this way… The speaker, wrapped up in their despair, imagines that those bells are speaking a kind of reply; they say that in the end, peace and goodwill will prevail over war and despair and that God continues to watch over the world.

Longfellow acknowledges that the world is broken, but he doesn’t leave it there. There’s more to the story, and that’s what makes the message of Jesus’ birth so joyful.

I hope people wake up and see through the darkness and evil. Be a light!

The Wrong shall fail, The Right prevail.

And through it, all, do not turn away from the sounds of hope coming through the ringing of the church bells. Embrace the gift of Christmas!

And finally, click here for the incredible and moving video of Casting Crowns singing the song.

Until next time…

Be well. Be safe. Be happy!

References:

https://www.familyfriendpoems.com/poem/christmas-bells-by-henry-wadsworth-longfellow

https://poemanalysis.com/henry-wadsworth-longfellow/christmas-bells/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Heard_the_Bells_on_Christmas_Day

https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/finding-praise-through-pain-in-i-heard-the-bells-on-christmas-day.html

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%202:14&version=NIV

#25 The story behind “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day”

https://www.castingcrowns.com/

https://www.klove.com/

Local Store Wisdom

December 1, 2021 / Chiara

After dropping my daughters off at school, I decided to get some grocery shopping done before starting the day. I don’t ever shop early, like eight in the morning early. The chore needed to get done, and it was a good distraction from the many thoughts and personal family concerns swirling in my head, lately.

With a list in hand, I strolled into our local grocery store. It was a quiet morning. There weren’t many patrons around, only the workers unloading merchandise onto the shelves. A clerk in the poultry section greeted me, waving a package of drumsticks.

Getting produce and deli, I marched over to the meat department. Perusing the steaks and ground beef section, I couldn’t help but notice how high the prices were. Damn inflation. Suddenly, I felt a chill blow over me, like someone opened a freezer door, and I sneezed. “Bless you,” said a voice behind me. Startled, I turned and faced a medium-height elderly man with a weathered face and graying fluffy hair. He wore a heavy red flannel shirt over camouflage overalls.

“Thank you,” I shivered.

He nodded and moved closer to me as we both faced the beef fridge. “These prices are mighty high for some ground sirloin. How’s anyone supposed to afford this? Gas is up too. Unbelievable.”

Agreeing, I answered turning toward him. “I was thinking the same thing.” The elderly man’s chestnut-colored eyes glistened, making his lined face even more prominent. “I know.”

I could feel the hairs on my arms stand up, so I moved away from him, only to realize he inched even closer. I swiveled to make sure the worker was still at the chicken section. He was, bent over the freezer. A little way off, I saw a couple in the produce section. Okay, at least I’m not alone.

The man straightened, “So, what’s it gonna be? Sirloin or Chuck?”

I picked up a package of 90% lean ground sirloin and inspected it. I had plans to make Sloppy Joe for dinner and I preferred the leaner meat rather than the 70% kind. “Sirloin for me, sir.”

“Aha, is that right? Ok. You don’t have to call me, sir, either.”

“Well—”

“I’m no more sir than that sir,” he pointed to a young clerk bringing out a case of bananas from the back room.

Wrapping my package in a plastic bag, I nodded, absently … plastic wrap, non-dairy cheese, eggs, milk, potato chips … The man reached for a two-pound package of ground chuck. “This looks good for hamburgers.”

“Yep, now you need some burger buns.”

He snapped his finger. “Yes, yes. What do you recommend? Kaiser buns or Rye bread?”

I shrugged. “Um, I prefer the pretzel rolls myself.”

He reflected for a moment, and it dawned on me that the old man was by himself. He didn’t even have a cart. Did he just come into the store for meat? “Never tried pretzel buns before, might though now that you recommend it.”

I grinned, walking away. “You’ll like them.”

Before I could get a few feet away, the elderly man called after me. ”Excuse me, miss?” I went over to him, worried something was wrong. “Thanks for talking to me.” He proceeded to tell me that his wife died a few months back and he took a taxi to shop at the store once a week. The other times, his two granddaughters came by with food. But mostly he was alone and happy to chat with anyone willing to listen.

He explained that he has trouble sleeping at night because he missed his wife of 60 years, and so he looked forward to these trips because his seventy-nine-year-old self can’t drive anymore. He’s pretty healthy except for his prosthetic leg, losing his left leg during the Korean war, even lifting his camouflage pants and showing me the actual prosthetic. It was titanium and under his left kneecap. Pretty impressive.

He reads three newspapers a day. Doesn’t watch TV or own a microwave. Always drinks coffee with two sugars. “Gotta watch the sugar.”

He’s not happy with all the stuff going on in the world, he believes in natural health because his wife was a midwife and natural birth instructor. She would still be living if she hadn’t been in a horrible car accident two years earlier. “… Never the same after that. All sorts of ailments. She was tired of fighting the pain.” He believes in God, even though he’s not religious. And then he pointed to me, “I saw your cross neckless. I knew you were a believer like my wife.”

Excuse me? Back to reality. How long have I been standing here? All I know is that I couldn’t move because I was completely mesmerized by all that he told me. I just smiled. “Um, thanks.

“Well,” the old man sighed, “I rattled too much and must be going.”

I shook my head, “No, you’re fine. It was nice. Thank you for sharing your story. I’m sorry about your wife.”

Then, something weird happened. Are you ready? This elderly man touched my shoulder and said, ‘’I appreciate that. I’ll see her soon. Remember, don’t put your faith in your problems, okay? Put your faith in the miracles,” and then he hobbled off with his two-pound package of ground chuck.

I scratched my head. Who was that man?

I’ll leave it there. It happened folks believe me or not. I have no idea who that man was, where he went, and why he shared all his personal information with me. Me! My sisters will tell me it’s my face – inviting and smiley! I know it sounds cheesy. Whatever it was, I’ll never look at a meat section the same way.

In conclusion, I’d end this post by stating… for just that moment, I was seen, not by the problems I was carrying, but who I am. Who God made me. Flaws and all! Could I be an encourager, an ear, an inviting human spirit to lift another human spirit? Why not?

I know we’re all carrying burdens, some heavier than others. So, let’s be each other’s light. Lifting up instead of breaking one another down. The healing benefits go both ways.

This season, be an “I see you!” person.

Until next time…

Be well. Be safe. Be happy.

This post was inspired by the song, “I see you” by Christian artists Chris Tomlin and Brandon Lake. See the video.

The Lady Under The Tree

September 9, 2021 / Chiara

For two weeks straight at approximately 7:44 am as I drove my daughters to school, I’d see this figure sitting cross-legged under a large tree. I didn’t notice at first because we’re constantly running late courtesy of my preteen, and I sped down the side streets to get to school on time. It’s my younger daughter who sees the most interesting things from the backseat. One time, it was a yellow cat sitting on the roof of a Ford F150, yes, she knows her automobiles thanks to her daddy, and another time she noticed an elderly gentleman drinking coffee on his front porch, and recently, she saw a teenage boy climbing out of his second-story window. Hmm, I guess sitting in the backseat has its perks.

Out of the blue one morning, she pointed, “Mommy, look at the lady sitting under that tree.”

I glanced to my left and there she was. It was a woman and she looked like a statue. The sun was streaming through the trees and it cast a long shadow across a dewy field of grass. It was an image to behold. So serene, that a calming sensation came over me. Cross-legged with one hand resting under her chin, she could easily be asleep. I felt jealous because this figure appeared to be free of worries and without hurry to-do lists.

The next day and the next few days were the same. Every morning as we got ready to leave, I looked forward to seeing this female sitting comfortably under a tree. Our car rides to school were exciting. My girls and I would make bets on who would see her first, and we spent time guessing as to what she was doing there, and what she was thinking or praying about.

Well, it’s been a week now and we haven’t seen the woman under the tree. I feel anxious, jumpy, and concerned. The girls are also worried.

My younger daughter said this morning, “Maybe she found another tree to sit under.”

I scratched my head. “I don’t know, honey.”

My preteen responded, “Maybe it’s a hologram?”

Was it a figment of our imagination? Only time will tell. Maybe she was an angel guarding our drive to school? If that’s the case, I’d like to see her every single day!

I’ve often read that angels show up in different forms. For now, the tree stands tall, barren of a figure. I won’t give up, though. Each morning, I’ll imagine God’s hedge of protection on my girls as they go to school. I’ll even make it a point to treasure that warmth I experienced in my heart. Yeah, that’s what I’ll do. The grace of that knowledge should be enough.

References:

https://www.ask-angels.com/spiritual-guidance/angel-signs/

https://www.gotquestions.org/angels-Bible.html

Do angels ever appear to people, or are they always invisible? (billygraham.org)

What Are Angels and What Are They Made Of? (learnreligions.com)

Protecting What Matters

July 13, 2021 / Chiara

This past weekend, Italy beat England in soccer to the win the UEFA Euro 2020 Cup. It was an edge of your seat game that ended in a shootout. Congratulations to my home country of Italy! Forza Azzurri. Forza Italia!

Picture courtesy of Christian Charisius/dpa/picture alliance

I’ve always followed soccer but seeing this particular series inspired me to ponder on the things that matter in life, and how can one protect them?

A soccer team consists of eleven players on each team. Each position is very important. However, I believe the goalie has the most important role. He/she has to protect the net from getting the ball in it so that the other team doesn’t score a goal.

The other members of the team, important as well, have to guard the goalie and defend their territory, while running the ball in the opposite direction and trying to score a goal for the team. Yes, there is a lot of running and defending, and this takes ALL the team’s strength to succeed, whether you are playing in regulation time, or in a shootout.

Regardless, I began reflecting on my life with my husband and my children. Each day, I go to battle. Not a war-kind of battle, but I battle to fight sickness, fear, anxiety, pre-teen drama, finances, relationship issues, family issues, etc. I have to keep my girls safe, I have to support my husband, and keep the house running in order. Most days, I am the goalie, protecting my home front from the negativity that can impact my loved ones. It’s not an easy job. The world tells us one thing, but our values and morals tell us something else. It’s a constant struggle when temptation is everywhere.

As the “goalie” in my family, though, my job of “goaling” is different from my husband’s, the biggest war is the war of my mind. While fighting for everyone else, I’ve fallen trap of failing myself. The negativity has seeped into my thoughts and actions, thus sending me into an oblivion space of sadness and depression at times. I know I’m not alone on this. I’ve often asked this question:

How can I be there for everyone else when the net of my mind has been compromised?

It’s a heavy question, I know. But, I’ve taken small steps to shift the negativity to positivity. I’ve turned to exercise and reading the Bible. Both have allowed me to release pent-up frustrations and angst, and read beautiful words of love and wisdom from my Heavenly Father. It has given me hope in my life and muscle to stop the bad from infiltrating my family.

So, warriors, this is a call to action! Put on the Armor of God. Ephesians 6:10-18.

Because there is a great motto, adopted in 1972 from the United Negro College Fund (UNFC) that has become one of the most recognizable quotes that says…

And if we don’t invest in our minds, they can become sinful. Romans 8:5-8 says…

I will close with this final scripture quote, because I know this is also true. Philippians 4:8.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Until next time…Be well. Be safe. Be happy.

References:

Philippians 4:8 NKJV – Meditate on These Things – Finally, – Bible Gateway

UNCF – Wikipedia

Picture of Team Courtesy of Christian Charisus/dpa/picture alliance from article: Forza Azzurri: Behind Roberto Mancini′s Italian renaissance | Sports| German football and major international sports news | DW | 11.07.2021

The Meaning of “Forza Azzurri!” in Italian – Let’s go Italy! / Come on Italy! – Daily Italian Words

EPHESIANS CHAPTER 6 KJV (kingjamesbibleonline.org)

It is not a game, put on the whole armor of God – GLOFIRE TV

Romans 8:5-8 KJV – For they that are after the flesh do – Bible Gateway

https://www.rt.com/sport/528976-donnarumma-penalty-reaction-england-euro2020/

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/more-sports/italy-s-euro-mvp-gianluigi-donnarumma-just-getting-started-after-shootout-heroics/ar-AAM3ABK?ocid=BingNewsSearch

https://www.news18.com/photogallery/football/in-pics-italy-players-celebrate-uefa-euro-2020-triumph-in-style-3952997.html

https://the18.com/soccer-learning/how-many-players-on-a-soccer-field-explained

https://www.bookbrowse.com/expressions/detail/index.cfm/expression_number/599/a-mind-is-a-terrible-thing-to-waste

https://www.spiritedconcepts.net/blog/2012/06/06/YOUR-Mind-is-a-Terrible-Thing-to-Waste-Romans-85-8.aspx#:~:text=In%201972%2C%20the%20UNCF%20adopted%2C%20as%20its%20motto%2C,Long%2C%20of%20the%20advertising%20agency%20Young%20%26%20Rubicam

How many players on a soccer team? The Answer & FAQ

The Parable of a Child’s Prayer Request and the Homeless Man

July 7, 2021 / Chiara

Every day I’m reminded of the fragility of our humanness; and the blessed joy that can resonate when there is hope! (Inspired by the Bible scripture: I Corinthians 13:13)

Monday early evening; the temperature hovered around 89 degrees on what was a hot, sun-filled day at the beach in Florida.

My family and I were walking to a nearby restaurant for dinner. We were hungry and couldn’t deny the rumblings of our stomachs any longer.

Hand-in-hand I strolled with my younger daughter, who’s almost 11, while my husband and our soon-to-be-teenage daughter, walked behind us.

Passing a Speedway gas station, she slowed down, turning to gape at a young man sitting on the curb a few feet away from the front door of the store. I glanced too. He looked to be in his mid-to-late-teens and tan. But then I peered at his clothes; torn cargo shorts, a yellowed tank-top in need of a good washing, and no shoes. There was an oversized white garbage bag positioned upright against the building. His hands were flying around, gaily, talking to anyone who would listen.

“Mom, look at the homeless guy. Who’s he talking to?” My younger daughter asked, ogling him.

I tugged at her hand. “I don’t know, honey. Now stop, it’s not polite to stare.”

Letting go, she paused and sighed, “I’m sorry.”

“… Hey, what are you doing?” Her older sibling scowled, almost trampling all over her on the sidewalk. My husband shrugged, and they went around us. I nudged her. “What is it, kiddo?”

“Mommy, does he live there? What if he needs a job?”

I nodded, stealing another look at him. “I don’t know if he lives at the gas station. A job would be good.” And a shower. And a home. And a good meal. “Why don’t you pray for him? Pray that he finds a job.”

She smiled, took my hand again, and we resumed our walk. “Okay, I’ll do that, Mommy.”

***

The next morning, we had an early boat tour reservation to see dolphins in the bay. We hadn’t done a dolphin tour in a couple of years, and I always remembered it to be a fun time. Plus, my older child had researched that the best time to see dolphins is in the morning. We’ll have to see if she’s right about that.

On the way to the pier, we stopped at one of our favorite breakfast restaurants. We were grateful for the quick seating by the host, as the small diner was packed for a Tuesday morning. After ordering, we were conversing about nothing in particular when my youngest suddenly grabbed my hand. “Mommy, Mommy? It’s him?”

I shook my head trying to understand. “Who? Who are you talking about?”

She tilted her head toward a worker across from us stacking clean plates from smallest to biggest behind the cook. “Him, Mommy! The boy at the gas station!”

My mouth dropped. It was the young man we saw the day before!

“Yeah, it’s him,” my husband concurred.

She said to me, “I prayed like you said to do, Momma. I prayed really, really hard that he’d find a job, and he did! See? He’s here.”

Tears began to pool in my eyes and I had to look away. She had prayed for a stranger. How incredible? Maybe he was hanging out at the gas station for the afternoon, or maybe, I hated to even think this, he was on drugs and talking to himself? So many negative other thoughts started to fill my mind and I willed them away. Was this a coincidence? Nah, he must just work here anyway.

Until…

Our food had come and we dove in, starved for eggs, bacon, and thick toast oozing with melted butter. After a bit, the host came up to us. “Hiya, folks, finding everything to your liking?”

My husband nodded, looking around. “Hmm, hmm, really good. Thank you! Busy morning, eh?”

The gentleman, sunburned with long creases lining his face grinned. “Yep, it’s been busy, but I’m not complaining. We’ve suffered enough during this terrible pandemic. Thank God, we’re doing—”

“Excuse me, Rod, where should I put these?” The gas station man approached the host holding coffee mug saucers. Rod pointed to a shelf across from the toast station. “Right there, son.” The young man nodded and walked away.

The host turned back to us. “… It’s good to be busy, so busy that I had to hire another employee.” He pointed over his shoulder. “I found that fella there hanging around the gas station yesterday and asked him if he wanted a job. He said yes, so here he is. Doing alright too.”

My daughter and I made eye contact; her sweet little face couldn’t hold the gigantic smile she wore. Thank you, God, for listening to my child’s prayers! You are truly an awesome God!

My husband and the host chitchatted some more before he was off seating other patrons. The rest of the day didn’t disappoint, either. We saw seven dolphins and even a baby dolphin. God blessed us with a calm sea and beautiful creatures. He also blessed a young man with a wonderful opportunity.