Category: Refuge
Writer’s Log, May 24, 2023
๐ธ Good morning, wonderful Wednesday warriors! ๐ธ I hope this post finds you in high spirits! Today, Iโm thrilled to share some updates from an eventful day unfolding around me.
As I was getting in my car, my dedicated housekeeper, Mary drove up. While she diligently cleans and tidies up the house, Iโll find myself cozily nestled in a corner of my favorite coffeehouse. This vibrant atmosphere fuels my creative energy. While here, with every sip of my steaming cup of java, inspiration flows through me like a gentle breeze. Iโll pound out my daily writing word count in no time. Ah, such is my life as the common man is what Iโd like to say, but I know my life isnโt average.
But wait, thereโs more to this day! While the Mary works her magic at home, Iโll have the pleasure of meeting up with my dear friend Les for a delightful lunch at JGs Old Fashion Hamburgers. Our usual routine is to laugh, share stories, solve the worldโs problems, and savor the flavors of our favorite dishes. Letโs see, will I have the veggie burger or a chicken Caeasr salad? Les will have a chicken sandwhich with mushrooms.
The warmth of friendship truly brightens even the dullest of days, doesnโt it? Plus, weโre still geting to know the new owners. We both miss Morris and Sharhzad, the former owners. Sigh.
To bask in the beauty of this midweek day, Les and I will take an after lunch leisurely stroll at North Park ๐ณ๐ถโโ๏ธ. The climate-controlled mall is a great walking venue. It also has a beautiful garden courtyard where the sun baths the surroundings in its golden glow, while the gentle rustling of leaves provided a soothing symphony for my ears as it provides cool relief on warm, humid days. Connecting with nature is like recharging my soulโs batteries, and it always has me feeling refreshed and inspired.
To add a cherry on top, I have another dinner date planned with โshe who cannot be named on the Internetโ tonight ๐ฝ๏ธ. Weโll share delicious food, engage in heartfelt conversations, and create memories that will surely make us smile for years to come. Thereโs something truly magical about these shared special moments with a special person that makes life even more beautiful.
As the night and bed time approaches, Iโm eagerly looking forward to curling up with the captivating book ๐ The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings. The pages beckon me into new worlds of Hobbits, Elves, Dwarfs, Orcs, and Wizards, where imagination knows no bounds. The book has so much glorious detail, scenes, and adventures, that the movies just skip. Soothing green tea and a cozy blanket complete the picture, ensuring that Iโll have a restful night ahead.
Now, enough about me! Iโd love to hear about your day and the things that bring joy to your midweek adventures. Letโs celebrate our shared experiences and create a ripple of positivity together! โจ
May your Wednesday be filled with laughter, peace and love, and all the little things that make your heart sing. Keep that radiant smile on your face and continue to spread your wonderful vibes! Be the positive light in someoneโs life today.
I close sending love and signing off as your friendly companion enjoying a day of leisure ๐ซ Enjoy a wonderful Wednesday.
Writer’s Log, May 23, 2023
๐ Good morning, fabulous peeps! Peeps means people. Who needs “people” when we’ve got a whole new lingo? ๐โจ Just had a blast chatting with this awesome college student who schooled me on the meaning of “peeps.” She looked at the confusion on my face when she greeted her friends.
She looked at me and asked, โwhatโs a peep?โ I answered, “those little yellow marshmallow candy things they stores sell at Easter.” She and her peeps bust out laughing. Then she explained. Born in the early 2000s, sheโs got the inside scoop! And shared it with me โฆ ๐ซ So rise and shine, folks, because it’s TUESDAY! Time to seize the day with boundless enthusiasm and a mega-watt smile! ๐โจ
Who’s feeling those Tuesday vibes today? ๐โโ๏ธ๐โโ๏ธ Let’s kick off this day right by spreading some serious positivity and joy all around.
Remember, a little dose of positivity can work wonders! I’m a total believer in Jesus Christ, and I know that my attitude and good vibes can influence everyone I interact with today. It’s like a ripple effect of love and happiness! ๐โจ So let’s dial down the moodiness and share the love and peace. Be the radiant light that others need in their lives!
Alright, spill the beans, peeps! What’s on your agenda for today? Are you diving headfirst into a new project, smashing your goals, or simply enjoying the journey? Let’s dish out our daily motivations and inspire each other like there’s no tomorrow! ๐๐ช
My agenda? You guessed it, I’m currently stationed at my favorite coffee house for my morning writing session. As soon as I walked in, I received five big hello Jimmies and waves from all the regulars around here.
Three of the super cool baristas were genuinely thrilled to see me. They even mentioned how I bring some sparkle to their morning! ๐ One of them even asked, “Why aren’t you grumpy like most older guys?โ I flashed my brightest smile and replied, “I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart!” ๐
And guess what? Two regulars said hey when I entered. They always ask if I’m back to write some more today. I even got asked why I write about Jesus and the Bible. I simply share my testimony and the latest Bible verse that spoke to me during my regular devotional time. I keep it short and sweet, telling my own story. The rest is up to the Big Guy upstairs!
Oh, and don’t forget to pamper yourself today with some self-care. Sip on your favorite cuppa โ๏ธ, take a leisurely stroll in nature ๐ณ, or crank up the volume on your go-to tunes or playlist ๐ถโfind those little moments of bliss throughout the day! ๐ As part of my self-care routine, I’m heading for two allergy shots. ๐ Yep, I’ll be taking my stroll too, but in the comfort of an air-conditioned mall. Gotta get those daily steps in to keep both mind and body in top shape!
Hey, let’s spread some serious love and kindness today! Take a moment to reach out to someone, send a sweet message their way, or maybe even give them a virtual hug.
It’s the small acts of kindness that can turn someone’s day around. Hey, how about treating that person behind you in the coffee house line to a cup of joe? You know, the one who could use a little pick-me-up? ๐ค๐
Remember, you’ve got the power to make today absolutely fantastic, for yourself and others! Let’s make this Tuesday one for the books, filled with positivity, laughter, and all-around good vibes! And hey, it’s not just Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys who deserve to feel those good vibrations (yeah, that’s a throwback reference to fifty-six years ago, folks!) ๐โจ
Sending virtual hugs and high-fives to all my fabulous friends! Have an absolutely amazing Tuesday, and let’s make it a day to remember! Let’s make it a day for the books, the record books, the books we’re devouring, and the books we’re dreaming of writing! ๐๐ #TuesdayVibes #SpreadPositivity #GoodVibesOnly #Jesus #ImaBeliever
Writer’s Log, May 21, 2023
Writer’s Log, May 16, 2023
๐ Good morning, everyone! It’s Tuesday, May 16, 2023, and I couldn’t be more excited to share my day with you! ๐๐ซ
First things first, I had the BEST night of sleep ever! ๐ดโจ Waking up refreshed and ready to conquer the day, I dived right into my morning devotional time. ๐๐ช I spent some quality moments reading the Bible and applying its wisdom to my life. It’s such a fantastic way to start the day on a positive note!
Oh, and guess what? The Dallas Stars rocked their NHL series against Seattle! ๐๐ They’re moving on to face the Vegas Golden Knights in the Western Conference Championship! ๐ Let’s cheer them on together! ๐
Now, even though it’s hot and humid out there, I’m determined to make this a Terrific Tuesday! โ๏ธ๐ฅต And the good news is, there’s a low chance of rain today, so I can enjoy the day to the fullest! ๐ง๏ธ
Speaking of enjoying things, I kicked off the morning by getting my swimming pool robot up and running to clean my pool. ๐โโ๏ธ๐ค It’s like having a little helper taking care of the hard work for me! ๐๐ฆ
After taking my morning prescriptions and staying hydrated with a refreshing bottle of water, I hopped into my car and made my way to my favorite coffee house. โ๏ธโจ Nothing beats the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the morning! ๐ฌ๏ธ
Now, with my first cup of coffee in hand, I’m feeling energized and ready to tackle the day! โ๏ธ๐ช But before I dive into my tasks, I received a lovely text from my Bible fellowship class “care group leader.” They’re doing their weekly check-in to see how I’m doing and if I have any prayer needs. How thoughtful is that? ๐ค๐
Okay, it’s time to get my creative juices flowing! ๐๏ธโจ I’m about to start my morning writing session, and I can’t wait to let my ideas come to life on the page! ๐๐ญ Writing is such a passion of mine, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to express myself through words.
Later today, I’m planning to complete my daily walk and soak in some fresh air and sunshine. ๐ถโโ๏ธ๐ It’s always nice to take a break from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature. ๐ณ๐ธ
Oh, and speaking of reconnecting, I’m absolutely engrossed in three fantastic books right now! ๐โจ I’m slowly savoring every word, scene, and phrase in “The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Rings.” It’s like embarking on an epic adventure with each turn of the page! ๐งโโ๏ธ๐
But that’s not all! I’m also diving into the captivating diary of Alan Rickman, “Madly, Deeply.” It’s such a raw, passionate, and truthful account that feels like peeking into someone’s personal journal. ๐โค๏ธ And let’s not forget “Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity” by Bill Gifford and Peter Attia, MD. It’s an enlightening exploration of longevity, and I’m already 11 hours into this captivating seventeen plus hour audiobook! ๐ง๐ฑ
Later today, I’ll be tackling some writing admin tasks, including sales and promotions. It’s all part of the journey towards sharing my work with the world! ๐ฃโ๏ธ
Finally, to wind down and relax, I’ll be catching up on a couple of exciting streaming series tonight! ๐บ๐ฟ There’s nothing quite like immersing myself in captivating stories and escaping into different worlds after a productive day.
Alright, that’s a glimpse into my amazing day! ๐โจ I hope you all have an incredible Tuesday filled with positivity, productivity, and lots of joy! Let’s make the most of it together! ๐๐๐ซ #TerrificTuesday #MorningMotivation #BookwormLife #PoolsideVibes
Why I Write
Morning Writing
My tall blonde roast coffee is sitting on the table. Iโm at my usual table at my regular coffee house ready to begin my morning session. I know that in the age of mystics, life coaches, spiritual coaches, etc. that Jesus Christ and the Christian God isnโt that cool to many people and God is the brunt of disdain to some. But itโs God (God the Father, God the Son i.e .Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit) that I unapologetically write about. ย
Hope: How to Have Hope During Times of Hardship
Iโm 85% finished with the first draft of โHope: How to Have Hope During Times of Hardshipโ Itโs book three in my series, โThe Bible Speaks to Life Issues.โ Book one in the series is โPrayers for the Chronically Ill.โ Book two is โCaregiving: Biblical Insights From a Caregivers Journey.โย
Bible Teaches About God
I remember what the Bible teaches about God. When Moses asked who shall I tell the Egyptians that send me, in Exodus 3:14 God spoke to Moses and said, โAnd God said unto Moses, I Am That I Am: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I Am hath sent me unto you.โ In a time when other cultures and peoples had gods of their creation and naming, Godย replies to Moses without a name but a statement. The answer given here is crucial for understanding the identity and nature of God. This response becomes foundational in both Jewish and Christian theology.ย
I AM WHO I AM
God identifies Himself using a phrase which is actually a description, or a statement: “I AM WHO I AM” or simply “I AM.” The first phrase, in Hebrew, is e’heyeh aser’ e’heyeh. This is most simply translated as “I am who I am.” Other translations of this important phrase include, “I am what I am,” or, “I will be what I will be,” and it could be taken to mean “that which will be, I am, that which will be” or similar ideas. Even in Hebrew, this is a statement which is not merely expressed as a name, or a word, or a description. This is a poetic expression of God’s very nature.ย
God identifies Himself as the self-existent One
The statement carries a sense of necessity, simplicity, and absolute-ness. In using this particular phrasing, God identifies Himself as the self-existent Oneโthe eternal, unique, uncreated God. God just is. He is the ultimate truth, the only necessary being, the beginning and end, the first cause. The question of who speaks from the burning bush is given an answer which is both simple and profound: “I AM.” This is how Moses would have interpreted the response, given the Hebrew words used.
No man cometh unto the Father, but by me
Iโm reminded of the I AM statement in John 14:6 where Jesus is speaking and says, โJesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.โย
The only answer is Jesus
Good teachings, great philosophies, and the coolest life coaches are great but no the answer. The only answer is Jesus Christ. The timeless, unchanging, uncompromising teachings of the Bible about God and Jesus Christ are the ultimate answer. When you explore other teachings, philosophies, gurus etc.you are actually being a seeker of truth. Seek God and youโll find the answer. Youโll find fulfillment, direction, purpose and even book a place in heaven for eternity.
Why I write
And thatโs why I get up and come write almost every morning. I do it to share Jesus and share how the Bible speaks to us on life issues.
My story of accepting Jesus
Hereโs how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus โMy Story.
Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways by J.F. Penn
Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways
So, have you heard of “Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways” by J.F. Penn? It’s an amazing book that follows the author’s solo walks along three ancient pilgrim routes: the Pilgrimโs Way, the St. Cuthbertโs Way (both in the UK), and the Camino de Santiago in Portugal and Spain.
Personal experiences, challenges, and insights
Penn shares her personal experiences, challenges, and insights as she walks these routes and reflects on the lessons she learned along the way. The book is divided into three sections, each focusing on a different aspect of the journey. The introduction gives you a glimpse into her personal faith journey pilgrimage, which helps set the tone for the rest of the book.
Part 1: Preparation
In the first section, “Part 1: Preparation,” she takes you through her preparation for the journey, including practical information on gear, accommodation, and navigation. She also shares her reflections on the inner journey and her fears, which makes her relatable and vulnerable.
Part 2: The Journey
In the second section, “Part 2: The Journey,” Penn describes her experiences along the way, and the lessons she learned about herself, the world, and the pilgrim tradition. She also includes helpful information for anyone who might want to walk these routes, like hardships, lodging, and eating options.
Part 3: Arriving and the Return
In the third section, “Part 3: Arriving and the Return,” she talks about the letdown of the journey, the unique personal experience, and returning to the real world.
What I love about “Pilgrimage”
What I love about “Pilgrimage” is how Penn weaves together personal anecdotes, historical and cultural information, and philosophical reflections. Her writing is clear and sincere, and she shares both her joys and challenges with honesty and humility. The descriptions of the landscapes, people, and cultures she encounters are vivid and evocative, and she brings a sense of wonder and curiosity to her journey that is contagious.
“Pilgrimage” is a beautifully written and deeply insightful book that will appeal to anyone interested in pilgrimage, travel, or personal growth. Penn’s reflections on the spiritual and psychological benefits of pilgrimage are especially moving and will resonate with readers seeking to deepen their own understanding of themselves and the world around them.ย
I highly recommend this book! Five stars.
What Does the Bible Say About Listening?
How to Become a Christian
Hereโs how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus โMy Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.
What Does the Bible Say About Having Perfect Peace?
How to Become a Christian
Hereโs how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus โMy Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.
What Does the Bible Say About People Who Please God?
How to Become a Christian
Hereโs how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus โMy Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.