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The Patching Girl with the Gray Curls

August 12, 2025Leave a Comment

It’s a “no frills” kind of day, with my messy gray curls but I circled my patch so you can spot it.

All silliness aside, I’m four and a half months in with using phototherapy stem cell technology patches and I continue to love the benefits. So why do I patch? In all honestly I was a true skeptic at the end of March when my college friend shared the technology with me. I do trust her though and see the amazing results she’s receiving so I was willing to look more closely. I have read so many incredible testimonies of how these patches have changed peoples lives for the better. The testimonies of real people sharing their real life situations has given me great hope.

I believe God made our body to heal itself. God created our stem cells which are the “master cells” and building blocks in our body. By God’s design, stem cells are found throughout our body and in various organs. Their job is to repair and renew our bodies. Stem cells migrate through the bloodstream to areas of the body most in need of repair and renewal. God is so amazing!

The stem cell patch traps the infrared light emitted from our body and reflects it back into the body. The reflected light stimulates the activation of stem cells. People have experienced notable effects in the first 24 hours and have incredible results in the first year. The stem cell patch supports the activation of healthy stem cells by activating GHK-cu (copper peptides) These copper peptides reset over 4,000 genes to a healthier younger state. By the age of 30 only half of our stem cells are working. By age 60, 90% are dormant. Can you tell I love the science behind this? Biology and anatomy were two of my favorite classes many years ago in college.

While the stem cell patches do not “treat” any specific disease. They activate stem cells and your body uses it where renewal is most needed. However, many people share they have benefitted with less pain, reduced inflammation, better quality of sleep, increased energy, less brain frog and less depression and anxiety. I personally can testify that my depression is way better and I feel so much more balanced. I am very thankful my friend shared this with me.

Yesterday my friend shared about the patching conference she just attended and shared a video from the conference of David Schmidt, the inventor sharing part of his testimony. I had some trouble following the video with my hearing and vision issues. Another friend shared with me about “live captioning” in settings on apple devices and told me how to turn it on. I still had some issues since I can’t read as fast as people speak but she shared. the gist of what he said. He diligently studies the Bible, doing word study, comparing meaning between Greek, Hebrew and numerical meaning. He gives God full credit for his inventions. That was confirmation that I’m on the right path.

Hebrews 11:1 says, “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.” (NLT) Faith is active. Another compelling verse is found in James 2. “You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith complete.”
‭‭James‬ ‭2‬:‭22‬ ‭(NLT‬‬). Jesus himself used some unconventional ways of getting things down. For example, in John 9 Jesus heals a man born blind by spitting on the ground, making mud and placing it on his eyes. He told the man to go and wash in the pool of Siloam and came back seeing. So I’m going to continue patching.

This stem cell patch technology is patented with clinically studies and proven results. It is nontransdermal and noninvasive. While I started in April hoping it will help with my low vision, I am seeing other benefits while I wait: better quality of sleep, more mentally balanced, increased energy, handling stress much better, just to name a few. I’m going to keep praying and see what the Lord allows. He created my body to renew itself. Now where the activated stem cells will end up working is up to the Lord but I trust Him.

I will be having an “Educational Patch Party” in the near future, if you would like to learn more. My friend Kellie and another lady will be presenting the information. If you’d like an invitation to the zoom party, let me know and I’d be happy to send you an invitation.

We can’t grasp the goodness of God. “For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.” Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭9‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) AND…… “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬ (NLT‬‬)

So keep believing, keep trusting, keep putting your faith into action because God is working. I’m personally thankful He is using this stem cell patch technology to renew me. Be Blessed and better yet, Be a Blessing!

http://www.shannonkhinson.com

The unlikely Best day

August 7, 2025Leave a Comment

On the road, blogging in the car. Heading home from a few days away with our “original three”: Ron, me and Joshua, plus 5 month old puppy Moose. It had been years since we went away, just us with no friends along for the trip.

We planned the trip about a month in advance, picking a small Airbnb at Ocean Lakes campground in Myrtle Beach, S.C. We figured the campground would be more pet friendly, besides we camped there when Josha was little. It was a different kind of fun but we enjoyed it. The thing about planning in advance, you never know what the weather is going to be like. Last week as I checked the weather, rain was forecast for every single day. Half of me wanted to just cancel and plan again, but coastal weather can change so quickly. (And praise God, it did!).

You know how first impressions can set the stage? Thus was the case. As we pulled into the property we were greeted with an overflowing trash can, with several bags of trash laying beside it. The people that had been there before us had a lot of trash. Wow! We walked up onto the front porch and noticed the ash tray and the smell of cigarette smoke. We were not happy with the place at all but I told the guys we would make the best of it. The cleaning service dropped off a quilt for a bed at 8:30 p.m. that first night and it was damp, not completely dry and useless as there was no dryer in the place. So the stage was set, and it took a positive mindset to push past it.

We rented a golf cart and took Moose cruising around the campground. There is evidently a “boulevard” that everyone cruises in their golf carts, up and down. Some people decorate their golf carts and as you pass each other people high-five everyone. I saw small inflatables attached to many golf carts; a shark, duck, flamingo, to name a few. It was very family friendly and pet friendly too. Although all the noise, headlights and people were a bit much for Moose the first night but he did really well.

We found a dog park inside the campground on Monday and Moose loved that. There were a variety of breeds and ages there and they all played and chased each other. That was Moose’s first experience being around so many dogs and it wore him out. We put him in his crate at the house and took off for the beach.

I had prayed for some non-rainy weather and God answered. Our first full day was cloudy but we still went to the beach. The surf was very rough and wave after wave knocked me over. One big wave knocked the hat off I was wearing. Coming up from the wave, I caught sight of it and went after it, but another wave crashed on me and the hat went churning further in the surf. Sad thing, it was my Dad’s golf hat. (He passed away in 2021). Tuesday we woke to sunshine and I was so thankful. It was short lived but again no rain until later that evening. Again we took Moose to the dog park before heading to the beach. I was satisfied having prayed for some non-rainy weather so we could enjoy the beach, we had two. Our last full day was forecast for 75% chance of rain. We figured we would find something else to do.

Our last day we woke to clear blue skies and a perfect beach day. We went to the pool then went to the beach. The beach was perfect and the surf relatively calm. We all went out in the water together and the guys even saw some nice size fish jumping in the surf. Joshua said that was a sign he needed to go fishing. We did head for the pier after dinner but rain and lightning had set in. Slightly disappointed we stopped at a gas station for some bottled water and the guys bought lottery tickets on a whim. Ron had never bought one before. I was sitting there laughing and shaking my head as they scratched away on the cards. Joshua won $5 and Ron won $200. We had to go to a Food Lion to exchange the card for cash and the guys split the money.

Moose was a good traveler. Joshua had wanted to see how he would do on the beach but there was really no place to give him a good bath so we stuck with the dog park, which he really enjoyed. Everywhere we took him, he was a people magnet. He did well with the attention and even the little kiddos wanting to pet him.

One of the t-shirts I wore this week says “”Grow in Grace”. I told Ron it was a reminder for us all to not complain about disappointments but to show grace. We tried to refrain from complaining about the Airbnb and instead found something to compliment on. The beds did sleep very well and that was the perk of the place. One day we drove the golf cart to a place within the campground to get hamburgers and brought Moose with us. The hamburgers were cold and I do mean cold. It was like it came from a refrigerator but the cashier was a “ray of sunshine” and that made the experience better. I just laughed as Ron commented on the burgers. I said “ that’s some good lettuce and tomato on that burger. Find the good and it changes the outlook.

All in all, it was a different kind of fun family trip. We enjoyed our time together and are thankful to be heading home to our elderly dog Joy. Mom was so sweet to stay with her while we were gone. Joy is 14.5 years old and has arthritis. I know Moose will be so happy to see her. Mom texted me saying Joy was carrying her turtle toy through the house. Moose loves that toy and she was likely looking for him. She will see him soon.

Thankful for time away with my blessings and thankful to be heading home to our own home. Vacations are nice but there’s no place like home.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

A change of mind

July 31, 2025Leave a Comment

We all struggle with what goes on between our ears. Our minds are always running in one direction or another. I personally can see a connection with my line of thinking and how I feel physically and emotionally. When looking for a picture for this blog, I googled “picture depicting “mind games” and the above was one of the images that popped up. It’s kind of accurate as our mind is like a big lightbulb shining in various shades and quite fragmented at times. It’s pretty vital to learn how to take thoughts captive. Paul talks about this very thing in the following verse: “We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,” 2 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭5‬ ‭(ESV‬‬)

Negative thoughts can especially be troubling. Speculation is another thing to flee from. These types of thinking can get us in trouble. They can cause fear to take form and our bodies respond in unhealthy ways. I am learning more and more how to focus on what God says is true. Paul said, “for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬ ‭(ESV‬‬). As we take control of our wayward thoughts, God directs us away from fear. Paul actually encourage us in Philippians what to think on. “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬ ‭(ESV‬‬) (emphasis mine)

Honestly, my thoughts don’t always fall into those neat positive places and I know I’m not alone. My mind sometimes goes into overdrive. Overthinking, self criticism and second guessing myself sometimes gets me off track. Why do we go off “the deep end” like that? I don’t need to measure up to anyone except for God. I know He appreciates my efforts even if I don’t think I measure up to what I should be. This line of thinking is partly due to our human nature and also the world influences we are exposed to. I will add the devil often try’s to tell me I’m falling short and to give it up.. He can be quiet!!! The world really is morally corrupt and we are all exposed to it on one level or another. We become less sensitive to what is pleasing to God when we emmerse ourselves in the world: social media, music, tv, movies, news etc. Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (ESV‬‬). It’s essential to come apart from the world influences in terms of limiting what we are exposed to.

The above statement reminds me of something I read recently. I don’t quite remember where I saw it but it said we need to be like Moses and “leave the palace”. Moses left the riches of palace life and chose to set himself apart and be like his own people the Israelities. That change would certainly narrow the influence of the “world”. I thought it was an interesting connection. Moses left the rich foods, the entertainment, the exotic culture and privileges to be like his own people. Dare we come apart from our “world” and earnestly seek the things of God? Our lives would be so much more joyful, peaceful and less chaotic if we would truly emmerse ourselves in God’s Word and prayer. I’m thankful for the Holy Spirit’s gentle nudge that quite often steers me away from thoughts, actions and words that I should avoid.

Recently I was dealing with the need to forgive which releases my mind from constantly thinking and rethinking, why in the world people say the things they do. A very wise woman shared the following with me. ”When we get wounded by someone and don’t let go of it so we can be healed from it, we start to hear things through that hurt. Our hearing gets distorted. We start to expect to be hurt. We hear hurt in everything. We must let God heal the hurt and forgive. If not the cycle continues.” (For privacy reasons I won’t share her name, but God knows) I don’t typically dwell on hurtful thinking but I know some people who do. We need to allow God to take control of our thinking and break the cycle of negativity. God is so able to deliver us from it all. We only need to ask Him. I think I will stop here for tonight. Let’s let God have His way and transform us by the renewing of our minds. It can only get better. I’m so beyond thankful to serve such an amazing, mightly, all powerful, Holy God. Be blessed and better yet, be a blessing.

http://www.shannonkhinson.com.

The “Art” of Forgiving

July 26, 2025Leave a Comment

Oh boy! Talking about a hard thing! We ALL experience forgiveness and the need to extend it towards those who wrong us, usually on a daily basis. I see this in humanity, people I know and love, and see it’s a “God” thing. We need Gods help to truly forgive from the heart. As I was praying this morning I asked God to release me from the hurt caused by hurtful untrue things people say. I am always a forgiving person, but lets be honest, the hurt inflicted by people can weigh us down.

It’s kind of interesting, after I prayed this morning asking God to help me to forgive and let it go, including the hurt, He allowed me to see the verse of the day. “Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.” Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭13‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) Okay Lord, I’m listening! The thing is, forgiveness in itself is a choice and it’s not a hard choice to make when you want to live in peace. However, what in the world do you do with the disappointment and hurt? Looks like some Holy Spirit healing is needed.

Often times conversations and intentions are totally misunderstoood or taken out of context Other times people get so emotionally disillusioned they don’t see a situation clearly. I’ll throw in miscommunication when people simply don’t understand yet repeat something that didn’t happen. I will go as far as to say, ASL (American sign language) and spoken English are two very different languages.

As I have been reading through the Bible again this year, I love how it “sticks” to my mine. Proverbs talks about gossip and it is so true. “A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭28‬ ‭(NLT)‬‬ This is so true. As I was praying this morning I said, “Lord humanity is such a mess! We are created to bring You glory yet the devil messes it up.“. Everyone, and I do mean everyone gossips sometimes. Some more than others. Just being honest here, There is a wealth of instruction for Godly living in the Bible. Let’s take it to heart and apply it to our lives. The world would be a whole lot more peaceful and joyful. Take for example the following verse from Psalm. “Then keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies!” Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭13‬ ‭(NLT‬‬). In the book of James it really “hammers home” this point. “And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.” James‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬ ‭(NLT‬‬)

The Bible is FULL of wise counsel on how to live in this fallen world. It directs us in how to navigate life. As I shared with the homeless during devotions last Wednesday on how powerful God’s Word is, I old them it’s like a map for life. It’s God’s loving instructions to us to get us through this journey. It would be wise to read it and apply it to our lives. We had 9 Bibles to give away last Wednesday. I told them as they lined up to get physical food, to also take a Bible for spiritual food. Eight people took a Bible! Praise God!

Life is messy. From most standards I lead a boring life but yet as I read God’s Word and see life unfold around me, it is messy. I see people with struggling marriages. I see people trying to make it look like their life is perfect, when it’s an illusion. I see people trying to truly forgive people for things done to them decades ago, they say they have forgiven but still refuse to talk to those who wronged them. Then there are those homeless and living in shelters for various reasons, trying to make life work. Just looking at the whole isssue called LIFE, it’s MESSY. It is vital we seek God at every step. The devil is active to stir up trouble BUT Jesus overcomes it all. It’s also wise to be careful about your circle of friends and support group. You need others who will speak life and encouragement into your life not critism. Think before you speak, and yes I am speaking to myself as well.

When I saw the verse of the day, there was a video devotion that went with it. The devotion. tied forgiveness and empathy together. I love empathy! Being able to put yourself inside someone else’s shoes. Try it! It will change your perspective if you attempt to see things from someone else’s situation. A world of wisdom there. I think I will stop here. We can’t change people but we can change how we respond to them and we can creat boundaries to avoid some of people’s chaos. Lord help us respond well and in a merciful gracious way that brings You glory.

Have an amazing weekend. Be blessed and better yet, be a blessing!

http://www.shannonkhinson.com

The Fine-line of pushing

July 17, 2025Leave a Comment

I love this quote. It is actually “so me” BUT in my life there is a fine-line. Finding balance is key.

I am forever trying to figure out the fine-line of pushing. How about you? I can push myself too hard on the day to day basis and am always trying to find the right balance. When push comes to shove, it’s too far and the end result is exhaustion. (More mentally than physically). I went over and beyond this week and I was literally about to fall over last night when I got home from serving. I wanted to go right to bed and it was not even dark outside. I made myself wait until 10 then went to sleep and slept 11 hours. Feeling much better today. Once again I’m on a quest to get it done around the house.

Living with hearing and visual limitations, it takes more brain energy to deal with the normal things like conversing with people for a length of time, both spoken and sign language. (They are equally tiring but I love my people and push myself anyway) The same thing can be said about pushing past limitations. On Tuesday I overdid the zoom meetings attempt. I mean honestly, I was literally trying in vain to understand a live zoom. Someone was texting me some pointers of what they were basically talking about. I was using my iPad for the zoom meeting itself and texts coming in on the same device. I grabbed the iPhone which is synced to the iPad to answer the texts. Here’s the catcher, I can’t see the iPhone unless it’s under my video magnifier. Lord have mercy….. but I tried to keep a straight face and not show frustration. I’ve got to find the right balance in this. Life can stretch me so much at times, I wonder what it’s like for normal people. But hey….. I know normal is overrated.

Finding balance in the new business venture is something I’m going to have to do. I realize I can’t do it all so I’m going to need to learn to say no to some things. The phototherapy stem call technology is such an effective and fascinating product to learn and promote. I’m realizing I’ve got so much more of Life on my plate than others can even begin to understand, and knowing that, I’ve got to figure out a balanced approach.

Yesterday was ministry day when I help feed the homeless in Rock Hill. Since we have moved to an indoor facility we can now do a short devotion with the people before they eat. Pastor Daryl asked me to share with the people last night and that was such a privilege to share God’s Word with them. Nerve-wracking as well. While a women a couple of weeks ago told me it’s not hard, I personally feel a weight of responsibility that I don’t take lightly. Two days ago, God dropped some verses in my heart before Daryl even texted me. I knew in my heart what to share, but I still had to stand up there and do it. I wanted to mentally and spiritually prep myself right before standing in front of the people but I was busy in the kitchen washing the pots, pans and bowls we used during food prep. This is an industrial sized kitchen. God worked it all out though. I realize it’s Him working through me, and not me myself. I think it went pretty well. I’m going to ask someone for feedback later, who was out there with me, as they have asked me to do it again next week.

Looking back and at the present, I do see all this stretching might be leading up to something. What? I do not know. Over a year ago I was leading Bible study in our deaf group, when I couldn’t see the book. I sat down at my video magnifier that I use for reading a book and took detailed notes on my iPad using symbols to help me remember, memorizing great portions of it to be able to best teach. It took a lot out of me, but it was worth it to see growth. Next I began to weekly volunteer with RiceNBeans ministry. I can’t hear the people well but I didn’t let that stop me from serving. Now here I am still involved in that, in a new location helping with devotions. Also presently learning the Patching business and possibly pushing myself a bit too much in that area. It seems to all lead to something, which I’m not yet sure what that something is.

I believe my audiologist would be shocked at how much I’m putting myself out there to force myself to understand as much as possible. If I could give advice to myself, I’d say “Pray for a more balanced approach”. I can and do overdo it. I know when I’m so tired I want to go to sleep at 7:30 then I’ve pushed a bit too far. I guess my “Kenley stubbornness” comes into play quite a bit. Lord help me find that fine-line and stop there. I know other deaf people (just deaf, no vision issues) who only interact with deaf people. I’m not one of those. I love all people; hearing, deaf, disabled, foreign, black, white, type A personality, type B, outgoing, not so much, etc People are God’s workmanship and are there to love and encourage. That’s just who I am. I am so so thankful to have time with God daily to soak up strength and direction for the day. It’s my Lifeline. Do you know Jesus? He can be your Lifeline too.

I better get back to work. This is my second cleaning day. Got half of it done two days ago and finishing up today. Have a blessed day.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

I can’t but HE CAN and DID!

July 2, 2025Leave a Comment

What can I say? This morning I texted my friend Tami to see if they needed my help with RiceNBeans tonight: a ministry that feeds the homeless. Tami and I had been away from serving for over a month and last week was our first week back helping at a new location.

It’s amazing how God works! We are well familiar with the previous location at the bus stops but the ministry in Rock Hill is now serving from an indoor location. If we had not gone last week, we would have not known what to do. God foreknew Pastor D would be called out of town, even though we had no idea. God’s ways are awesome!

This morning Tami texted me and asked me if I would do the devotion tonight for our homeless friends. I have learned over the course of my life, when God opens a door, He will provide and see you through it. So I said yes and asked if I could talk on whatever God gave me, which of course was fine. I began praying for direction and asked others to pray as well. God answered! 🙌🏼🙌🏼

He put Philippians 4:13 on my heart: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” I live this verse day in and day out. God also brought Hebrews 11:1 to my heart.: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”. I said a quick quiet prayer before starting then began to pour out what God gave me, using a bit of testimony in how He strengthens me. I don’t remember all I said and it was a short devotion. I had about ten minutes and my prayer was for divine direction to speak encouragement over them all. We can rise up over our circumstances, not in our own strength but in the strength God gives us. I told them God has given me such faith to move forward even though I honestly don’t have what it takes. I can’t hear or see well, but that did not stop God from enabling me to do His Will tonight. I am honored to be a vessel for His glory.

I often feel inadequate. I like to be doing something, encouraging, helping, writing or whatever. I love to use my abilities for the glory of God. No i don’t have all it takes, but God does. What we lack, He brings, plus more. He just wants us to make ourselves available. I can share from a true sense of lack, because I in myself can’t do it, but He can and He will. It’s not about our abilities or our resources. It is about our surrender. It’s about having an attitude of submission. I told Tami and her husband tonight, I’m open to doing this again if needed. I felt like a fish out of water, but honestly when it’s a God thing, that’s the best way to feel. It’s not about me but about Him and what He wants accomplished.

Let me encourage you to be open to being used by God for His glory. It doesn’t matter what you can or can’t do. If He opens the door for you, He will equip you to do whatever is needed. All glory to God! Be blessed and better yet, be a blessing. Good night! This girl is tired, but a good kind of tired.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

You are Chosen❣️

June 26, 2025Leave a Comment

Photo credit ~ Carry the Light Facebook post.

For some reason things seem to have aligned for this blog post. First, I listened to a sermon yesterday while walking on the treadmill. (Thank God for blue tooth technology!) Typically I don’t do that since I can seldom comprehend, especially if I’m unfamiliar with the speaker. Yet, I could follow the message. It was the first in a series about King David and how God chose him. Second, my husband Ron and I were talking about how people can be so fixated on issues that they begin to define the person. We both agreed that people aren’t defined by their issues but rather defined by God. Third, as I was scrolling through Facebook today I came across this picture (shared above) and the blog title came to me. Let’s talk about this.

In typical Shannon fashion, my blogs change and cover quite a bit of topics. This one may go deep and I hope you’re up for some exploration. Are you ready? What defines you? Is it your career, financial status, talents, abilities, your looks, health, or perhaps your role in another’s life? When you look in the mirror, what do you see? Someone too skinny, too big, not good looking enough, or perhaps you have an “ego” and think you’re “all that”. Just being real. There are all kinds of people in the world. Each one unique and beautiful in God’s sight.

In 1 Samuel 16, God tells Samuel to anoint one of Jesse’s sons because He has rejected Saul as king. Samuel goes to Bethlehem to make a sacrifice and invites Jesse and his sons. Here’s the thing, all Jesse’s sons were there except for David, the youngest. Samuel thought God was choosing one of Jesse’s other sons but listen to what God says. 1 Samuel‬ ‭16‬:‭7‬ ‭ says, ”But the Lord said to Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”” (NLT‬‬)(emphasis added) God ended up choosing David, the youngest of Jesse’s sons to be King of Israel.

God’s selection process is not like ours. We tend to look at the outward man, but God looks at the heart. God has created us. We are His masterpiece. Psalms 139: 13-14 says, “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. (NLT) Why don’t we go ahead and decide that God knows what He’s doing? If He made us with whatever features, it’s part of His masterpiece! I think we ought to praise Him because we are indeed fearfully and wonderfully made. Believe what Go says and the noise of the world is quieter. Try it!

Another thing I notice is, people can be so fixated on their problems and issues that they begin to “own” them and allow them to “define” who they are. Let me gently say this, you are NOT defined by your self imposed or professionally imposed “labels”. You have to deal with certain issues and situations, Yes! However, you aren’t defined by them. Let me give you an example from my own life. I don’t label myself as deaf and blind. Do I meet the legal description of that label? Yes! Do I own it? Certainly NOT! So how do I manage? I say, “I have some visual and hearing issues, I can hear some and see some too.” Does that make sense? See, in taking this perspective of me and my “abilities” I’m not limiting myself to a ”labels set of things I can and can’t do”. Why choose this stance in life? I’ll tell you why, God says we are fearfully and wonderfully made. (PS139:14) God says we can do all things through His strength not our own. (Philippians 4:13) It’s not about you or me! It’s about God! Let’s stop letting our finances or lack there of define us. Let’s stop allowing depression to define us. The Joy of the Lord is our strength. ( Nehemiah 8:10) Let’s stop letting our culture say we are or are not good enough. Who cares what people think? All that matters is what God thinks and let me tell you something, He thinks you are amazing because He formed you just the way you are. Rise up people and stop living in despair. Greater is HE who is in you than he that is in the world. (1 John 4:4)

I think I will stop here. That’s a good bit of self examination for one day. I pray the Holy Spirit will guide you in all truth and reveal to you how He sees you. You are so loved. God wants us to rise up out of the “holes” of life we fall n. Let’s ignore the lies of the enemy. God has chosen you because He delights in you. Look in the mirror and say “ God has me in (whatever the situation is) but HE IS GOING TO GET ME THROUGH IT! I”M COMING OUT THE OTHER SIDE STRONGER and GLORIFYING GOD FOR ALL HE IS DOING!” Trust Him! Be blessed and better yet Be a Blessing! If you know someone struggling, feel free to share this with them. All Glory to God!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Humble Pie anybody? 🙃

June 23, 2025Leave a Comment

Has anyone had one of those moments when you goof up and just have to laugh at yourself? I’ve had too many to count. I mean really, something humbling and cringe worthy can happen at any time and Hey, I just laugh and keep going. I know we all have these moments but living with hearing and vision issues certainly multiplies mine! Let’s see ~ I have gotten in the passengers seat of the wrong car before at the grocery store. (In my defense, the car was the same color and it was at night.) ~Years ago a service repair person came by the house and parked in the exact same spot that my husband parks. He had a white suv which my husband Ron also had at the time. I had called Ron and mentioned needing his help to clean out the “buck stove” that had hot ashes in it. When the service guy got out of his suv (that looked like Ron’s, parked in the same spot he parks in.) I was on the front porch with hands on my hips and said, “I did it all by myself!” The service guy was baffled and I was terribly embarrassed when I realized it wasn’t Ron. Thank God Ron pulled up shortly afterwards. Let’s see, what else have I done? There was an evening when my neighbor was coming by to pick up her Mary Kay order. I wasn’t quite sure when she was coming so I showed Ron the items were in the foyer. I went in the bathroom to proceed to color the gray roots of my hair. I came out of the bathroom with my hair sticking in all different directions and plastic gloves on my hands. The front door was opened and I noticed Ron was speaking to someone. I “assumed” it was our neighbor picking up her order. The porch light was not on, the person was about the same height as who I “thought” it was and I waved with plastic gloves on. 🙃Turns out it was another neighbor, a man who is a great guy and also a local politician. I was SOO embarrassed. Yet another time, my son Joshua and I were in the produce section of the store, I had set down my iPad to bag some veggies and walked off. When I realized what I had done we were on a search for my iPad among the veggies and fruits. Luckily I had my iPhone and Joshua used it to set off the iPad alarm. The produce guy and Joshua and I started listening for the alarm until we found it. I laughed and continued with the shopping. There’s much more but you get the picture.

Moral of the story, we can’t take ourselves too seriously. The best way to live life is to live humbly and able to laugh at shortcomings. Is it embarrassing? Oh Yes! Is it funny? Oh Yes! Sometimes we have to eat “humble funny pie” because life is too short to worry about what people think. That’s the wisdom of a 56 year old speaking. Wish I could have learned that much earlier. Yep! Real life. Keeping it humble and hilarious over here!

I’d love to hear your funny stories. Feel free to comment and pass along the laughter. Be Real, Be humble and Be YOU!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

The Power of Words

May 27, 20252 Comments

Lately I’ve been reading and listening to the book of Proverbs that is so rich in sound advice. I’m currently going through the New Living Translation Today as I listened to several chapters (it’s good auditory therapy for me) I was struck by how many verses are about our speech, the power of words and their impact. Here are quite a few verses I came across today, all of which are from the New Living Translation. “A fool’s proud talk becomes a rod that beats him, but the words of the wise keep them safe.” Proverbs‬ ‭14‬:‭3‬, “The wise are known for their understanding, and pleasant words are persuasive.” Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭21‬, “Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭24‬, “A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends.” Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭28‬, “Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.” Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭4‬, “Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!” Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭23‬, “The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking; the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words.” Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭28‬, “If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise.” Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭31, “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.” Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭21‬ ‭(NLT‬‬)

Wow this was just from a few chapters. There is so much power in words whether spoken or written/ typed/ texted. How often do we think about the impact of our words? How often do we say or text something in haste, then regret it? (Or edit what was sent?). Editing is a luxury of modern times, however spoken words once said can impact in a powerful way.

Let’s think about our words. With words we encourage, inspire, spread cheer, correct, hurt, tear down, gossip and crush. We would be wise to choose our words carefully. We can light up the world or burn it down with the words we choose. Let’s choose to encourage and build up, refraining from causing destruction.

Today I got a notification from my blogging site that I’ve hit a milestone: over 10,000 views. I was humbled. I never take lightly the responsibility of blogging. God will hold me accountable for the words I send out. I want to always encourage and inspire people to trust God in life’s storms. Four years ago in the midst of Covid-19, when I published my autobiography, I felt a burden to encourage people. Rooted by the Water is my testimony of walking with God and relying on Him despite life’s hardships. That’s why I started and have continued to blog for the last four years, to spread hope, joy, resilience and the fact that You can do hard things with God’s help.

As I read Proverbs today, saw the notification of having over 10,000 views on rootedbythewatere.blog it was confirmation of the power of words. I pray that God continued to guide me in topics to blog on and stories to share to bring joy and laughter to the heart.

You don’t have to be a blogger, writer, teacher, preacher etc to realize the impact of the words you choose to use. Let’s all be aware of power behind what we say. Let’s build up and encourage others.

If you’re going to say negative things, gossip, argue, bring division and tear down, do everyone a favor and zip it! Those negative words have an impact that spills into those around you. Positive words have the opposite effect and bring joy to others. Let’s make the world a better place, one positive encouraging word at a time.

You can find my book Rooted by the Water on Amazon (ebook, soft cover and hard cover). If you know someone who could use some encouragement, send them a copy. You can also subscribe to my blog. This coming July will mark four year of blogging once or twice a week. It’s my hearts desire to bring glory to God through sharing how He brings beauty from the hard things in life. Thank you all for your support and prayers. God is faithful always. Be blessed!!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Interruptions

January 12, 2025Leave a Comment

I realize I said my next blog would be on joy but life doesn’t always go the way we intend. It is full of interruptions. Those spur of the moment things that “suddenly” you end up smack on your face. (I will get to that scenario momentarily.) The latest Episode of Adventures with the Hinson’s.

Let’s see: we are 12 days into this new year and so far we’ve dog sat a feisty little booger Chihuahua we had never met before. Oh my! Never again! Our dog Joy was sweet to her but she wasn’t having it. That was followed by Ron getting sick. Who has time for a cold? Two days ago our son Joshua also didn’t feel well and he had his NC Massage Therapy licensure exam early yesterday morning. Did I mention it started snowing and icy roads were expected? Yes! Ron and Joshua went to find the testing center that was over 30 minutes away. They discovered the place only closes if they lose power. Icy roads didn’t matter, the test would be taken despite hazardous roads. Oh my!

Bright and early yesterday morning the guys left with lots of extra time to navigate the roads. We prayed as a family before they left and I prayed as they traveled. God heard and answered. They had no issues with the roads. Thank You Jesus! Ron was not allowed to sit in the warm testing center but had to sit in the car. Later Joshua texted me, “I PASSED!” He was so excited and relieved to have that hurdle jumped. When they arrived home Joshua said he wanted to celebrate later. I said it would depend on how his dad felt. Ron has had no fever so we decided to go out to Nakatos for dinner, just the three of us. We enjoyed our time together but the food made me feel sick. When we arrived home I got out of the car quickly to get inside. I didn’t see a patch of invisible ice and I busted! Oh my word! It is astounding how quickly things can change. I hit that ice so hard on my hip/lower back and pain shot through me. I ended up face down on the ice afraid to move. Ron was trying to help me up and I was afraid he would fall, we would fall together and I already hurt so bad. When I realized I could move (even though very painful) I was so thankful that nothing seemed broken but badly jarred and bruised. I texted my mom and a few prayer warriors asking for prayer that I could move better. God heard and God answered. Ron mentioned going to Urgent Care and I didn’t know if he meant for him, for me or both. I laughed at the visual of us walking in together: me barely able to walk and him sounding very hoarse. Note to self, don’t laugh after a bad fall because it shoots pain through your body. I slept all night lying on my back. When I woke up I could move although very very sore. Ron got checked out at Urgent Care and has an acute sinus infection

Who has time for Episodes and Interruptions. Life happens and you have to deal with it. Sometimes you push through and sometimes you lay down and rest. I know a lot of people who have a lot of “Episodes” going on. Some of those things have been life changing for people I know. One friend from college died on Christmas Day. She had been trying to get healthy enough to get a lung transplant. She got to spend Jesus birthday in His presence. I continue to cover her husband and daughter in prayer for comfort and peace.

Tomorrow will be January 13. Our Christmas tree is still up. I was in the process of getting everything packed away. It will have to wait until some future date when I can safely move better and Ron is feeling better. One thing at a time. Interruptions in life happen but we can look for the little things to bring us peace and joy in the moment. You may feel like life is one step forward, two steps back at times. However as long as you have breath you have opportunity to try again. I am a little wary of going outside right now for fear of slipping on ice again but faith over fear: caution and common sense are gifts I intend to use. In the process I will continue to praise Jesus and continue to worship Him for all He is. He is good all the time. He has been watching out for us and I am thankful. Coming soon, a blog on JOY, I promise!
Www.shannonkhinson.com.