inspire – Page 5 – rootedbythewater.blog

Morning Reflections

September 8, 20221 Comment

This morning I woke before the birds and sat out on the back porch. It was still dark and I sat praying and reflecting. Being thankful is such a big key in living a life of victory. I prayed, worshipped and read the Bible as the sun came up through the trees. It was utterly peaceful.

As I sat reflecting on recent things I thought of this past Sunday at Central Church of God. As the choir led us in worship, I softly sang along. My husband Ron looked at me and I said, “What? Can you hear me?” He smiled and I laughed because I make a joyful noise. The message spoke to my heart. It’s amazing how my personal studies in Gods Word, the message and worship , all combine together into a huge uplifting of my heart. That’s the beauty in how God works and brings things together to uplift you and propel you forward.

There have been other highlights from this week. On Tuesday I started back volunteering at the Fort Mill Church of God food pantry. It’s always a blessing to help others in the community. I helped pack 48 boxes of food that day. Helping others warms my heart.

Later on Tuesday my friend Amy came over to help me with a Zoom mentor meeting for Advanced Bionics. Tuesday was our second training. The first Zoom training was two months ago and a disaster for me. I can look back at my attempts to make it work and shake my head laughing. Simply put, the first zoom meeting was actually my first time using Zoom. As I tried to figure it out, listening as best I could with my cochlear implant technology and realizing I couldn’t see the captioning…let’s just say, it wasn’t the best experience. I was surprised to get an invitation to the second mentor training and asked Amy if she could interpret for me since she can see the captions. She was a huge blessing as she helped me participate. She said it was even difficult for her and she can see well. There was the person speaking, a drop box for chat, another window with questions to answer, the caption was small at the bottom, plus the frames with people in attendance, Amy said, “We are not shown for some reason.” Then I realized the computer camera was covered. It was a learning experience and interesting to hear other peoples stories. Im thankful they will let me stick with encouraging others in online forums.

Last night was the icing on the cake for this week. For years a few deaf friends and I have talked about doing a Bible study together. Last night was our first study together and it was beautiful. I can’t wait to see what God has in store as He reveals more to us and we walk this journey together.

This weekend we will get the family together for a cookout to celebrate what would have been Dads 80th birthday. He is spending it in Heaven with Jesus. We will still celebrate him and the legacy that continues to go forth through us all. We sure do miss him!

I would appreciate prayer for next Tuesday September 13 at 2:30 EST. I finally caved and made an appointment to get my eyes checked. I strongly dislike going to the eye doctor. Too many bad memories and none which could ever help. The last time I went was in the Spring of 2017. Im not looking forward to it. I will see a new Doctor. I pray God allows something to help. Thanks in advance for your prayers.

One other recent highlight, a friend from college was able to plug my files in and get my website back up. My previous domain was taken so the new website is http://www.shannonkhinson.com. He also added my blog to the menu. It does need some tweaking but it is basically functioning. I am so grateful.

To read more of my story you can find my autobiography on amazon in hard cover, soft cover and e book formats. “Rooted by the Water” by Shannon Kenley Hinson.

One Year Anniversary

July 19, 20222 Comments

Today marks one year since I started blogging. One year of sharing encouragement and pouring into others. One year of sharing my struggles and allowing you all in to witness personal growth. As I looked at my stats today, I saw my blog site has had 2197 views, 1417 visitors and 82 posts. My goal has been and continues to be, to encourage others to never give up in difficulties. I want people to see that there is HOPE and God is faithful. There is much that I don’t understand in life. Everyday is a classroom, teaching us about ourselves, God and the people He surrounds us with.

I love how God uses nature to teach us life lessons. This past Saturday I had a first time ever experience. Mom and I got to pick blueberries at our friends house before our book club meeting began. You might think this is totally off topic, but stay with me as I tie it in. At age 53, this was my first time seeing blueberries on a bush. Having low vision made it a bit tricky for me to pick the ripe berries. I discovered that I had to get in the bush, close enough so I could see which berries were ripe. For some reason I thought it humorous to have to be in the bush, arms wet from morning dew on the huge bushes, so I could pick the sweet fruit. Berries fresh off a bush are the best. There was a reward for getting in there and getting a bit wet and dirty. Life is just like that. You have to “get in” to gleam the rewards. With blogging I have to “get in there” in order to encourage others. I’m thankful for the opportunity and it warms my heart when people around the world choose to take the time to read my thoughts. Besides the United States my blog has also been seen in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Nigeria, Kenya, Australian, Canada and China to name a few.

We all have opportunities to share history by sharing “his”story, or in other words, by sharing the journey God has you on. What is God showing you? How can you surrender to Him and allow Him to pour into your life so you can pour into others around you? We will encounter hardships and struggles but it is so worth it. Being a vessel God can work through is an honor. Let’s take every opportunity to impact the world for Gods glory.

My website is currently down as I wait for the release of my files. I’m hoping to combine my website and blog together. In the meantime if you’d like to check out my book “Rooted by the Water” you can find it on Amazon in hard over, soft cover and e book formats. Thank you for journeying with me. Please subscribe to my blog and share it with others. Blessing to you all.

Stirred byWhat?

July 11, 2022Leave a Comment

Today I’d like to continue on the topic of stirring. Specifically what stirs you? What irritates you and prompts you to speak or act? There are so many things that stir people to react that it’s impossible to list them all. The level of maturity, restraint, strength, self control and compassion can dictate how you handle those things that trigger you.

Yesterday my son Joshua and I spent some time together. He is one of my favorite people. Since returning home from Arizona he has moved back in with us until he decides what he wants to do. We are savoring this time together. He has had some quality times with his dad but yesterday it was just the two of us. We got some subs from Jersey Mikes then got groceries. We talked about all sorts of things. We came across the topic of things that are annoying. It was kind of funny because dealing with people can be a huge test of character. As I listened I understood his point of view and I also took his age into consideration. When I was 24 I thought along the same lines. Amazing how wisdom comes with age. I told him people will be people. You can’t let it bother you. It’s best to just let it go. Sure it is annoying and yes it takes self control to not respond to it but we have to rise above the situation and let it go. Life is largely out of our control. We don’t have to let negativity around us affect our day. Just do what you can with kindness and move on. A positive loving word can go a long way.

So what stirs people? Why are people so angry, bitter,self centered and proud? Granted, I do miss a lot having low vision and hearing issues but I truly “see” people. I ask questions. I ask my husband things all the time. I ask him about peoples face expressions and things they say. I ask him about people driving along, what they look like, expressions and mannerisms. I’m just intrigued by human nature and how people respond to things. Behind every harsh look or bitter response there is a person who quite possibly is hurting and in need of grace and love. When situations and people make you angry think beyond the situation to what truly is the root of the issue. The Bible tells us in Ephesians‬ ‭6:12, “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.”(New Living Translation) Let’s let that scripture sink into our hearts.

There is more to be shared on this topic. Im going to meditate on Gods Word and see what he reveals to me. Stay tuned…..
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The Missing Link

June 27, 20222 Comments

There is glorious light at the end of this struggle. Today I went back to my Audiologist for another mapping (programming) of my Advanced Bionics Marvel cochlear implant processor. The last several weeks have been quite an interesting challenge. After a week of a sound diet, having no auditory stimulation, followed by turning the processor back on to a low level; today she found the missing link. I had three electrodes that were turned off for some reason. My Audiologist tried turning them all back on but it was just one that made a big difference. Turning that one electrode back on brought a crispness back to sound. It no longer sounds muffled. She also turned the other two electrodes on and off while I listened to my husbands voice. I could understand him better with those two electrodes off. My nerves were able to tolerate the increase in sound without any eye twitching. I can’t begin to tell you how relieved I am. I am so so thankful to the Lord for His direction and wisdom. Ron and I have prayed throughout this process and family and friends have also prayed. It will take me some time to adjust to the new mapping but I’m all smiles! I can hear myself above the background noise so I know how loud to speak. I will have to get out in the environment to practice. If I learned anything this past time, I learned to ease into it. I will navigate this next stage with a more balanced approach. I am eager to explore sound and see what I can understand but I will not push myself too hard this time.

Thank you Lord for lessons learned. Thank you Lord for always being my anchor that holds me when troubled waters come along. Thank you for your promises that are new every morning.

We are considering looking into getting my other ear implanted. It is something that will require much prayer. It is an option to think and pray about. In the meantime, I will be working with what I have and trying my best to succeed with what God has given me. God is faithful always.

Never give up. It’s easy to get overwhelmed at times and changing coping methods is needed. However, giving up is not an option. It’s okay to take a step back, rest, refocus and ease into it again. There is help and support, you just have to be willing to accept it. You are never alone in the struggles! God is always right there with you as you lift up your voice in praise, thanksgiving and prayer. Help is on the way. It might not always look like you think it will. Putting your trust in God will see you through. God is faithful always! Let Him help you.

If you happen to come across this blog post for the first time. I encourage you to read my autobiography ”Rooted by the Water”. It’s a true story of how God has enabled me to overcome great difficulties, not by my own strength but through His strength made perfect in my weaknesses. You can find it on Amazon and many other online retailers such as Barnes & Noble, Books a Million, Target and Walmart.

Coasting

June 22, 20221 Comment

After a near “burn out” on Monday, I decided to take a different approach to coping. The analogy of riding a bike came to mind. You can ride at a leisurely pace, occasionally coasting, or you can change gears and push hard to get to your destination faster. The destination is the same. The level of exertion is the difference.

Generally I choose to push through things especially if it’s something unpleasant. It’s just the way I’m wired. I want to get it done then rest. I realize that pushing through can cause tremendous stress that’s really not necessary. It’s okay to coast! It’s more than okay to take a balanced approach. I’m going to arrive at my destination and arriving with a good frame of mind is ideal. My goal is to adjust to the new programming (map) of my cochlear implant processor. I can’t make it work although I can do auditory therapy and adjust my outlook. I know it will get better one step at a time. Balancing social stimulation and taking breaks is wise. I don’t have to do everything just right. It’s healthy to monitor the stress.

Yesterday was a much better day and I believe today will be too. I didn’t push myself to hard but just “coasted” regarding sounds. It was refreshing to get many chores accomplished and spend time in prayer and Gods word. Finding two new blooms on my Nanny’s peace Lilly plant added additional smiles.

We can’t rush through the refiners fire. Romans 5:3- 5 NLT says, “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.”

Let me encourage you today in whatever you are facing, God is with us every step of the way. It’s okay to coast a bit and relax. He’s going to get us where we need to be. Just trust Him!

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

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Are we done yet? I’m ready! Speed it up!

June 15, 20222 Comments

Sound off Days 4,5 & 6

Day 4
Today was pretty uneventful. I’m starting to get a little bit used to this. Silence is NOT golden but it is rather peaceful. Ron has been very helpful. I also saw Joshua and my mom today for the first time since the “sound diet” started. They both sign some so that was really helpful. I do miss the seemingly small and insignificant sounds that people take for granted. Four days down, two more to go but my appointment isn’t until Thursday afternoon. Thank you Lord for making this time go by fast.

Day 5
Today was a break from the usual. My friend Leasa and I went to the Carowinds waterpark. Leasa is deaf and we caught up by the wave pool, communicating through sign language. What a nice break from having to guess what’s being said. She always helps me with things I have trouble seeing as well. It was a day of fun and relaxing. Experiencing Carowinds sound free is quite different.

I have developed a rash around my eyes and on my neck that seems to be spreading. Most likely poison ivy. This has given me and Ron something else to talk about. He has been using the limited sign language that he knows and is being very helpful. Day 5 down with one and a half more to go.

Day 6

There is light or rather sound, at the end of this silent tunnel. Ron and I are both ready for me to have my processor turned back on. He was trying to tell me something this morning but he was signing ( sort of) the opposite of what he meant. After a few frustrating minutes he signed “thank God” then pointed to his ears and signed tomorrow. I took that as “Thank God you will have your processor back tomorrow“. God willing, things will sound much better and we can get my levels turned down and speech comprehension will improve. Keep praying!

Joshua stopped by today and is doing something with his Dad. He is finally signing instead of finger spelling so much. This is one of the silver liners in this experience. I love our son!

I can’t hear the doorbell and can barely hear Joy when she barks so I’m having to keep the front door opened ( but locked) because a friend is supposed to stop by to pick up something and I wouldn’t hear when she comes. I figured I would write this blog while I’m waiting.

Last night I had a strange dream. I dreamed I had been wearing my processor when I wasn’t supposed to be. Realizing my error I said, “ Oh crap I did it again.”. I think I’m more than ready to hear again as are those hearing people around me. Tomorrow…tomorrow… speed it up! I’m ready!

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

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Sound off…Sound diet… Uumm okay

June 10, 2022Leave a Comment

Today at my audiologist appointment instead of a sound adjustment or programming changes to my cochlear implant processor, my processor was turned off. I’ve been having new issues with speech comprehension and we aren’t sure why. After testing my new (6 month old) cochlear implant processor and finding nothing wrong with it, we are taking a different approach. My program levels are pretty high which could possibly be overstimulating my auditory nerve. My audiologist suggest a “sound diet” for a week, meaning I won’t wear my processor at all. She even turned it off electronically so I don’t cheat.

This is going to be a real challenge because I am also legally blind. When I wake up in the morning the first thing I do is put on my cochlear implant processor and when I go to sleep at night, taking it off is the last thing I do. I depend on it for environmental sounds. So this is definitely going to be a challenge but I’ve always been up for a good challenge.

Having a positive perspective is more than half the fight. As we talked with the audiologist we asked if we could pray with her. God given wisdom is a must and we are trusting God for a good outcome, so we prayed together in her offic. Afterwards I turned to my husband and told him he better brush up on his signing skills this week. I also jokingly told my Audi I might end up thanking her next week because Ron is a talker. I’m always listening and trying to figure out what he is saying. Right before the processor was turned off Ron said to me “Bye”. I texted our son later and explained what was going on. He said, “Everything will work out fine and you might just enjoy it.” I remember writing in my book “Sound is nice but silence is golden.” I wonder if I will say that at the end of next week. Prayers appreciated. Ron might need them even more than me. This will be a test of patience. I guess this blog will be continued…..

If you’d like to read more of my story please check out my autobiography “Rooted by the Water”. It’s a true story of how God has enabled me to overcome great difficulties, not by my own strength but through His strength made perfect in my weaknesses. You can find it on Amazon and many other ponline retailers such as Barnes & Noble, Books a Million, Target and Walmart.

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

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Don’t throw it in!,

June 8, 20223 Comments

Sometimes when I write I feel a fire burning inside as I desire to encourage others. This is one of those times. Let’s be honest! Life is tough! You might be tempted to throw in the towel and say, ”Just forget it! I’m tired of the struggle!” Let me encourage you, don’t throw in that towel! Keep pushing forward! Keep believing! Keep fighting!

Yesterday I received some discouraging news about a dear friend who is being moved to hospice. This was pretty shocking! She had back surgery in April but has had complication after complication. The doctors have done all they can do. When faced with situations like this it’s so easy to take the doctors word and let go. A group of friends and I have a group chat going on to pray fervently for our dear friend. Yesterday one of the ladies shared a picture of a note our friends grandson wrote. It was a precious note to encourage, reminding his Grandpa that this was just an obstacle in life. – That dear friends is child like faith. God gets the last word not the doctors. As long as there is breath in her lungs, there is hope that God can turn this around. Join me in prayer for our sweet friend. God knows her name and the exact situation. I choose to believe God.

Last night I invited my Mom to go to a Teacups ministry event. I’ve only been a few times but the ladies are so welcoming and it’s always nice. It was a chance for Mom to meet more ladies from her church. The last few times I went it’s been a larger group. Being hearing and visually impaired, I don’t do that great in groups. Currently I’m having issues hearing with my cochlear implant and last night was way out of my comfort zone with all the voices to try to understand. But I “pressed in my heels” and tried anyway. I’m glad I did! I saw one lady there going through cancer treatment. She was all smiles with a scarf wrapped around her head. She is victorious! I saw other ladies there enduring pain in their bodies. They could have stayed home but they chose to come. Another lady’s son in law is going through some difficulties with his vision. I can relate and plan to reach out to encourage.

My point? Keep moving forward! Keep pressing on! Sometimes we have to live life “moment by moment”. Whatever it takes, don’t throw the towel in. God has us in the palm of His hands. He invites us to bring all our concerns and needs to Him. When the doctor gives bad news, trust Gods promises! When things in society seem to be spiraling downwards, trust God! Speak life and pray without ceasing!

Last night some of the ladies decorated rocks. I didn’t do one since it’s hard to see. One lady made one for me with the scripture Joshua 1:9 on it. I looked it up when I got home. It said, “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” She will never know how perfect this was for me.

If you’d like to read more of my story please check out my autobiography “Rooted by the Water”. It’s a true story of how God has enabled me to overcome great difficulties, not by my own strength but through His strength made perfect in my weaknesses. You can find it on Amazon and many other online retailers such as Barnes & Noble, Books a Million, Target and Walmart.

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

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He never stops working

May 18, 20222 Comments

This evening I went outside after dinner to water my plants. It’s been so hot today and the next several days are supposed to be the same. While I was outside I lost track of time and by the time I came in Wednesday night prayer was almost over. I caught the last few minutes online as the praise team was singing “Way Maker”. I love this song and especially the part that say: ”Even when I don’t see that your working. Even when I don’t feel that your working. You never stop you never stop working. You never stop, you never stop working .” I love that and it’s so true. We can rest in the knowledge that even when we don’t see it or feel it, God is always working to bring about His perfect will.

This is a good reminder for me. I have prayed hard for over 13 years about a certain situation. Every year we endure an appointment with an eye specialist and every year I pray for improvement. As I waited at home to hear how the appointment went, I walked with a friend and we prayed together. My husband finally texted me saying, “Praise God it’s stable! No change and same prescription!”. While this isn’t the exact answer I was hoping for it is still a good report. I do know that God can turn any situation around so we keep believing and keep praying for improvement. God is our creator who can make something out of nothing. He can renew nerves, and bring about optimal eye health. My heart is full of thanksgiving for stability. After my friend left I sat down at the piano to play some worship songs. I played, “You deserve the glory” and “Tremble”. I played them over and over as I waited for the report. Thank you Jesus for answered prayers. This is behind us until next years appointment. One day this will be behind us for good but while we wait for that day we will keep praying and thanking God. We are so thankful for praying family and friends.

If you are praying and have not received the answer yet I encourage you to not give up. God is faithful and always on time. Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Keep the faith and keep hope alive. God is faithful always.

You can find out more about my story in my autobiography, “Rooted by the Water”. My life story of Gods power at work in my weaknesses. Find it on Amazon and other online retailers.

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

Remember Your Journey

May 17, 20222 Comments

Lately I have been trying to stay busy and keep my mind occupied so I don’t become anxious. Trying my best to just trust God and His perfect timing. As I was reading a chapter in Micah this morning, the words “remember your journey” caught my attention. I have been reading the New Living Translation. Sometimes I can become too accustomed to a certain translation that I don’t read it as carefully. Today Micah 6:5 stood out to me. “Don’t you remember, my people, how King Balak of Moab tried to have you cursed and how Balaam son of Beor blessed you instead? And remember your journey from Acacia Grove to Gilgal, when I, the Lord, did everything I could to teach you about my faithfulness.” That’s such a thought provoking verse. Just think of how many times the enemy has tried to curse us over the course of our journey BUT GOD turned it around. Just think of all the times over the course of our journey God did everything He possibly could to show us His faithfulness! So as we walk through the stormy clouds of uncertainty we can rest in the knowledge that God is faithful always. He has brought us thus far and won’t leave us alone. He is in our midst. I am keeping my eyes solely on Jesus, who is my peace.

Yesterday I told Ron, “I look back and marvel at how much God has changed us over the years.” I told him if given the choice to go back I would not. God has given so much wisdom through the fiery trials. I am amazed and humbled at how faithful and merciful our God is. Lord give us your eyes to see the world and people the way You do: A sea of humanity needing acceptance, love, mercy, peace and healing. Remember your journey! See what God has done and give Him praise! Be blessed!