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The Beauty of Change

May 16, 2024Leave a Comment

It’s been over a week since I published my last blog “Meet the Squabs #200”. Since that post, the baby doves have flown away, embarking o n their new adventures. Truth be told, I was sad to see them go. I had watched the parents and squabs throughout the days. Now the nest is empty. There has been a nest on our porch for the last three years though so perhaps they will choose our porch again.

When Joshua was in his teens I used to joke about our house being the “Hinson Inn”. There was always someone here.You know you got really accustomed to people over when you would forget to close the bathroom door. At one point I even thought of putting a sign saying, “No Vacancy, Drive On”, but of course we never did. Being a parent is one of the greatest gifts and each change can be beautiful. When Joshua “flew the coop” several years ago and lived in Arizona for a while, that was a hard but beautiful thing to witness.

Each stage in life brings its challenges and beauty. I guess it’s all in how you look at things. When you look for the good, you are more likely to find it. When you look through “a critical lens”, no one measures up.

That’s one of the beautiful things about being a Mother. (I meant to write a blog in honor of Mother’s Day but I never got around to it so I will touch on that here.) Being a Mother is a God opportunity and priveledge to pour into your child no matter what their age. My Mom still does that and she is 81 years old. I know she’s always there and that is a comfort and joy. Joshua knows the same is true about me.

Now that Joshua has moved home and will be starting Massage Therapy school in June, we again have this gift of opportunity to pour into him. I’m beyond thankful he chose to not move to Florida with his roommates. God has him on a different path now. I told my husband Ron that Joshua sees how we respond to situations. For example, he has seen my heart for serving others. He jokingly asked me last week how much I was getting paid for the various things I do. I looked at him and said, I don’t do this for money. My reward is in Heaven. Blogging, teaching, serving in ministry to the less fortunate and serving my family cost me something but I don’t get paid for it in earthly things but the treasures I receive through smiles, seeing growth, encouraging others, being molded by Jesus into what He desires, is priceless.

Joshua also sees my response to situations that are less than appealing. Everyone has to deal with the flesh and how we humanly would like to respond but know God desires a godly response. Joshua said to me a couple of weeks ago, “Mom you don’t have to be a Saint 24/7”. I responded, “God is always watching.” As a parent, teacher, volunteer, friend or whatever our role, we have this god given opportunity to respond in a way that is pleasing to the Lord. No matter how hard it is at the moment, we can choose to die to the flesh and live according to the Spirit.

Which brings me to the beauty of change when we “let go and let God”. Last week we finally finished our “Women of the Bible” study. I would have never thought I could do that. I kind of “fought God” with yielding to Him in the process because it required large chunks of my time and, preparation, and memorization BUT HE ENABLED me to do it when I let go and said “okay Lord I will do this”. He taught me much in that surrender and submission to His desires. I witnessed the beauty of change in not only myself but in the other girl’s in our Bible study. We are created with His purpose in mind for such a time as this. Wherever He has you, submit to His desires. It is so worth all the stretching.

Our next study is potentially Revelation. That is such a daunting topic because I know little about it. Another girl in our group would like to lead this one and I am encouraging her all the way. She is more of a “visual teacher” which is great because we have some “Visual learners” but she wants me to help. I told her “she can do this” but of course I’ll do whatever she needs to support the effort. We can “tag team” it. We are looking forward to this change and can’t wait to see what God will reveal to us.

I’m also looking forward to this new season Joshua is entering. I know it won’t be an easy one but I intend to pray him through it. We will move forward trusting God to guide the way and open or close doors that should or shouldn’t be entered.

What a privilege to witness change unfolding right before your eyes. Remember “beauty lies in the eys of the beholder” so if you want to witness the beauty of change, adjust those “lens” and ask God to reveal it to you. It’s there, you have to look for it sometimes.

I love sharing what God puts in my heart. I pray it’s a blessing to you. If you like it, please feel free to subscribe and pass it along to bless someone else. We all need encouragement. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. I hope it inspires you to never give up in hard situations. God is always there to help us. Surrendering to Him years ago was the best decision I’ve ever made. Be blessed and better yet, be a blessing.
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You are needed

February 21, 20242 Comments

Have you ever really taken an honest look around you? Of course you have. So many things require a team effort. Every single service and job is needed. Sure some have more prestige than others but the goal is the same….. get the job done.

Recently I’ve been reading 1 Corinthians 12. If you have a chance read the whole chapter. So many gems can be found there.

This chapter speaks of spiritual gifts, it also talks about the many parts that make up the body. ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭5‬-‭7‬ says ,
“There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.” (NLT)

Let’s talk about acts of service. Since I do not work because of my hearing and vision issues, I have gotten involved in ministries that help people. At the Fort Mill Church of God food pantry, I have packed boxes of food for the needy in our community for over 8 years. I would love to be able to minister to the people themselves however I would need to be able to hear them well to do that and read their id etc. Every part of the operation is important. From the men who stock up the food, people who donate food, the people who prepare the boxes to fill, those who actually pack the boxes, those who pray for the clients, those who load the food for the people, to even taking out the trash, each part is valuable to getting the job done.

Today I am helping with a different ministry. My friends, Ron and I are going to help Rice N Beans ministry again tonight but at the Rock Hill location. We are making the food for that location for today as well. Tami brought the commercial cooker over with the recipe and ingredients for the beans. She had an appointment so she asked me to start them and stir every hour. So today I’m cooking beans. I guess I can stir up some “love” in these beans as I pray for those who will be eating them later. I texted Tami to let her know I’ve got things cooking. She just texted me back, “😁 let the fun begin is right! Our maiden cooking voyage 🫘 & 🍚 & 🌭 😂”. We are ready to do whatever God asks. Serving with friends is awesome.

I told my Bible study group last week, I would love to work but it would take the right job and right employer to accommodate my disabilities. But God has given me opportunities to serve those in need. 1 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭11‬ says, “It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have.” (NLT‬‬)

We can’t all be the same part and all have the same gifts. God knows what He is doing. Don’t look down on yourself if you feel inadequate or unseen. We are all serving God in whatever way He desires. It’s a joy to be apart of something bigger. The reward will come later in Heaven. Just do all you can for the Lord. He will open doors or close doors for you. Just be willing to do what He calls you to do. Years ago we had a friend name Larry who had ALS.He was a godly man and even as his health declined, he found a way to bless people. I remember he would leave messages on our answering machine praying for our family. He called and prayed for many even though this terrible disease ravaged his body. That folks is what it’s all about. Using what you have for the Lord.

Here’s another gem from 1 Corinthians 12:12, “The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ.” ‭(NLT)‬‬. So wherever God has you, serve as unto the Lord. What you do for Jesus Christ is not in vain. Say a prayer as we serve. New adventures can be intimidating for me, but once I get the groove, I’m good. And God please bless these beans.

If you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. I’m thankful for this gift to share when God puts something on my heart. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. (Hard cover soft cover, and e-book formats.) I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. All for the Glory of God.

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It’s been one of those “PUSH through” days

February 12, 2024Leave a Comment

Sitting here at nearly 9 pm EST, on a Monday night in February, sweating. Here in upstate South Carolina, it has rained all day with temperatures pretty steady in the 50s with 95% humidity.

It has been a “Push through it” kind of day from beginning until now. Rainy Mondays can be that way. I went to sleep last night wearing my Fitbit. It vibrates when a text comes in, so AT&T was my alarm clock, with an automatic text telling me my payment was made. (Like I don’t know that?) I was in a deep sleep, dreaming I was on a pier with a dove on my arm. Very interesting. Would have liked to know the end of it.

While I can feel the Fitbit vibrate, I can’t see anything on the little screen when it lights up. Thankfully it is synced with my iPad so I could check the text. Seeing it was nothing worth even checking, I got up to make some coffee. Thirty minutes later my friend Leasa texted to see if I’d go to Home Depot with her to help her find something to finish a project. I was still half a sleep and my question was, “How soon?” I ended up quickly washing my face and throwing on some clothes. She picked me up about 20 minutes later and we were off. After talking to several men there about the project she was doing, we finally found what she needed. During the process, she told me all about a movie she and her husband saw yesterday. We grabbed some Chick-fil-A then she brought me home.

My husband and I had planned to go to the gym to workout, but I still felt tired. I told him to give me about an hour and maybe I’d be ready to go. In the meantime, he helped me register for a 5k that our church is having. I’m not a runner, but plan to walk it with some friends. I finally said, “Okay let’s go”. Ron asked, “Are you sure you feel like it?” I replied, “No but let’s get it done.” Nothing like signing up for an event to get moving.

We got to the gym and started on the treadmills. Usually we just warm up for about 20 minutes then continue with strength training. Today I went two miles at a good pace then went looking for Ron in the weight area. He was wearing a red shirt so I figured he would be easy to find, with my low vision. But several guys were wearing red today. I finally found him and told him where I would be. Usually we stick together but today we did different things. The thing is, with my low vision I don’t always see people on the machines until I’m just a few feet away. Oh boy and being tired from that two mile walk didn’t help matters. Ron is a sweetheart. He came up to help me on the machines and I told him I hadn’t really seen the guy on the machine I wanted to use, but I “played it off”. I don’t think the guy noticed I didn’t see him. Welcome to my crazy life. We both got a good workout in and I was one sweaty mess. Nothing like pushing through a day when you just aren’t feeling it and it’s rainy and muggy outside.

This 5K event is something to keep me accountable with walking and strength training. Doing different types of things can be a bit unnerving at times though. The last time I did a 5K was about 9 years ago. That one I ran but I didn’t know the course. The directions were marked out on signs that I could not see. Oh my word, but I finally did cross the finish line. This time I’m going to do it with friends and they will help me know where to go.

There is nothing like good friends that get you moving. Whether it’s a quick run in the morning to Home Depot, doing Bible study, doing mission work or preparing for a 5K to do together. It’s worth pushing through to do whats is needed.

It’s almost time to “call it a day and hit the hay”. I’m glad I pushed through this day. It’s been a full one and it’s fulfilling to reach bedtime and say It’s been a good day even with the AT&T wake up text and muggy rainy weather. Tomorrow will be another busy day but it will be another fulfilling one volunteering at the food pantry then spending some time with my Mom.

I hope you all have an awesome week. Just “push through it” even when you don’t feel like it. You will be glad you did. Good night everybody.

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Astounding

January 15, 2024Leave a Comment

Ever had times when things left you awe stuck and amazed? Recently I finished reading through the book of Genesis in the Bible. I’ve read this many time but this time the story of Josephs life hit me differently. It’s one thing to hear teaching on a few verses at a time, and a whole different thing to read the story though and get a full picture. Not only that but God can give you new insight each time you read something. You can come away with something fresh.

The incredible magnitude of God’s faithfulness in each affliction Joseph faced in his life had me in tears. From being thrown into a cistern by his jealous brothers, to being sold as a slave by those same brothers, being thrown into prison unjustly, to rising to the second highest in Egypt…..God was steadfastly faithful in each and every affliction. As I read with tears rolling down my cheeks, I said, “God you are SO faithful”.

How many of us can say that we don’t complain in the hard times?Anybody? I know I can’t. I do try to always see God’s ways in whatever I’m enduring but many times I fall flat on my face in that regard. Each time Joseph put his faith in God, in the midst of his trial. Each time God faithfully provided Joseph with favor to endure, even thrive through it all. There are so many lessons we can learn from Joseph’s life.

Today as I wrapped up the book of Genesis, Joseph’s father Jacob died and Joseph’s brothers are afraid that Joseph’s anger will come out from being treated so wrongly so many years ago. From a human perspective, Joseph’s brother’s had it coming. But watch how Joseph responds to his brothers after their father’s death. “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. No, don’t be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children.” So he reassured them by speaking kindly to them.”
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭50‬:‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) Wow! Such amazing grace and forgiveness!

The grace and integrity Joseph showed throughout his life is something we should strive for. To develop the ability to trust God in the “land of affliction”. May we trust the sovereignty of God and trust He is working it out according to His purposes.

Sometimes the trials, afflictions or tests last a long time. May we learn to be fruitful for the glory of God through it all. May we learn to say “Yes Lord I’m going to praise you through this storm.” The song Yes I Will just came to mind. I will see if I can attach a music video at the end of this blog.

Praise God through it all! Learn to forgive those that hurt you. You might need to even forgive yourself. Don’t beat yourself up when you fall short. Confess, repent and then let it go. God is faithful through it all.

You may come to a point where you need to forgive God. I’ve known people who have been angry with the Lord for having to endure hardship and health situations. People get hung up on “Why am I going through this? Why am I STILL here Lord?” Still in the cistern. Still in the prison. You get the idea? God uses those things to mold us. Malachi 3:3 says, “He will sit like a refiner of silver, burning away the dross. He will purify the Levites, refining them like gold and silver, so that they may once again offer acceptable sacrifices to the Lord.”
‭ ‭(NLT‬‬). Even Job says the following after his many hard trials, “But he knows where I am going. And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold.” Job‬ ‭23‬:‭10‬ ‭(NLT‬‬)

Trust God. Trust His sovereignty Read His Word and learn His character. You are so greatly loved. Here are some more verses to learn from. “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭3‬-‭5‬ ‭(NIV‬‬)

I could go on and on here but I’ve done enough writing and sharing for the day. Learning from Josephs life has blessed me and I pray the lessons I’ve shared in this blog bless you as well. If you or a loved one are facing a hard time, Hang in there. God is not finished with you yet. He is doing a new thing. He can make a way where there isn’t one. Trust Him. Trust His process. ““For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭(NIV‬);. Let’s trust Him.

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Crossover in sight

December 28, 2023December 28, 2023Leave a Comment

Many of my blog cover pictures from this year.

Just a few more days and 2023 will be behind us. I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for a fresh new year. At the beginning of 2023 God dropped the word “soar” in my heart. At the time I had no clue why. Honestly, I’m still not quite sure. The year did seem to SOAR by. It seems like it just started and here we are near 2024.

2023 was a year of growth. God has worked with me on overcoming some fears. I will get to that in a minute. Getting feedback from my husband Ron, I evidently have grown in the area of peace. There is peace in my heart even though life is full of uncertainties. At the end of the day, I am confident in who holds my future and I can say 100% that God is faithful and so so GOOD!

About overcoming some fears, I’m learning more and more that I can trust God with everything. Everything can range from family health issues, fear of inadequacies, frustrations with our culture and how to live a life of humility. The list goes on. I’d like to share two key things I learned this year. There’s a big third but some things involve others and I respect their desire for confidentiality.

Late in the Spring, Ron bought us two “sit on top” kayaks. This was such a surprise that he agreed to buy us two. He is not yet a “Kayak lover” but I have hope. We are only about five or six miles from the nearby lake. Since we used to have a SeaDoo, I’m familiar with the water and area. I feel comfortable as I sort of know my way around.

Truth be told, there is an adventure element because my vision is 20/400. Yes you read that right. BUT I can see enough to do it and I love the water. Respecting the challenges, dangers, my limitations, the unknown and being willing to learn is all part of it. I started out on a two seater kayak but I wanted to be free. Being on a one seater with my limitations is pressing it, but God has given me a sound mind to approach the adventure with sound judgement.

I finally got Joshua, our 25 year old son to go with me. He thought he was going to wear me out, but he was in for a surprise, as my endurance gave him a “run for his money”. He also has a vision problem, however his is not nearly as bad as mine. I let him decide on our destination. He remembered an island way out in the lake, back from when we used to SeaDoo. So we set off. We didn’t know how far it was. All we knew was the general direction. We paddled and paddled for quite a while. Getting a bit tired, I finally told him if we didn’t see the island or reach it within 30 minutes, we would turn around. 30 minutes later we had almost reached the island. Talking about a huge accomplishment. We got out of the kayaks at the island and swam around for a bit and rested. Then we had to paddle all the way back. What an adventure! Perseverance , courage, stamina and sheer will to finish what we started. We made a goal and reached it!

The next big challenge to overcome came about in August. My Bible study group had decided to break over the summer and pick back up in September. Our leader got involved in a small group at her church and told us we could go ahead. I was totally stunned when the girls asked me to lead. I agreeded to try but inside I was like, “Lord are you kidding me? I can’t see the book. How in the world am I supposed to do this?” Truth be told I still feel that way. I know my limitations and God knows His power to work in them. I gave in and let Him have His way. I can’t but God can. I oftentimes feel so inadequate. There is a saying, God does not call the quipped, He equips the called. Wow. Boy am I a testament to that. I’m not saying I’m called, but I have definitely made my inadequate self available. We are going to pick back up in January. I can’t wait to see what God has in store.

The third thing I mentioned which I can’t fully disclose but I can share vaguely. It’s been the latter part of the year. Some experiences we had never faced. God has taught me to trust Him more. He has impressed upon me humility. Putting others before myself even if it costs me. Listening even though it wears me slap out with not hearing very well with my cochlear implant processor. That’s something I hope to get right in 2024. 2023 was not a good hearing year, probably due to menopause and hormonal changes. Who knows. I’m not going to worry about it. I’ve learned to say, God this is all I have, help me to make it be all it needs to be. I can’t hear but I can listen and I’ve done a whole lot of that this year. Listen to others needs and pray, pray and pray some more. God has taught me to speak wisdom over situations and trust Him. So it’s definitely been a year of growth, which has soared in some ways.

Im thankful that God still allows me to put into writing the many things He continues to teach me. I have continued to blog each week during this year. Ron got me a real keyboard that magnetically attaches to my iPad. It makes blogging so much easier to be able to “feel” the keys as I type. Me and touch screens don’t get along. To date there have been 5,210 views. Here are my end of the year stats for blogging. This is post #60 for this year. That’s 40.9K words this year, averaging around 693.4 words per post, reaching countries round the world but mostly in the USA. This is no reason for pride but simple gratitude. I could not do it without God. I wouldn’t even want to try.

God has not yet given me a word for 2024. I’m not sure if He will. I do know I will continue to strive to be empty so He can fill and use me in whatever way He desires. As we bring 2023 to a close I can say it is well with my soul. I will wrap this up with Philippians‬ ‭3‬:‭13‬-‭14, “No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.” (NLT‬‬)

At this point in life if a song could show my testimony I would choose It is well by Bethel Music. I will attach the YouTube music video with lyrics below. Be blessed and Happy New Year. May you experience the love of Jesus like never before.

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Love a Challenge

November 27, 2023November 27, 2023Leave a Comment

Truth be told, I do love to challenge myself. Today was no different. I sent a text to my 80 year old mom to let her know I would be available to help her with her Christmas decorating. My husband Ron was stuck at our house since our garage door was being replaced. He said he would join us later in the afternoon.

Mom picked me up and we headed over to her house. She had five containers of Fall things in the garage to put upstairs before starting on Christmas. I really didn’t want to wait all afternoon until Ron came. I told her I could get the containers up and down the stairs, just one step at a time. I’d lift the container a few steps then move up, then do it over and over. Once reaching the top, I’d just slide it in place then went down to do it again. On the first trip up to the attic I was searching for the light and smacked my head on a low ceiling board. Thank God I didn’t break the skin and it was behind the hairline. Whew! That was close. I didn’t want a “shiner” for the Christmas season. That knock “upside my noggin” was just the beginning. We girls could do this. I got all the Fall boxes up, then it was time to bring Christmas down.

Mom came up and picked out all she wanted me to bring down. We were just going to put up the window wreaths but once we got started we kept going. No surprise there. The same process for taking boxes up the stairs, worked just fine to bring them down. I would take a few steps backward down the stairs and slide the boxes along the edge of the stairs. It worked like a charm. Even the two Christmas tree boxes worked that way, turning them long ways, I slide them right down.

Our next task was for her to decide where she wanted her big tree and the pencil tree. We rearranged a few pieces of furniture until she decided where she wanted things. I put the pencil tree together and she decided she wanted that in the foyer so I moved it there. It was a perfect place for that skinny tree. I originally had no intention of putting the big tree together. We wanted to see if it would fit in a corner with the furniture where it was. I told her I’d get the bottom part out and see the tree limb spread so we could get an idea. Putting the tree stand on the floor in that corner, I inserted the bottom portion of the tree, expanding the limbs, it was a perfect fit. The oddest thing though was I couldn’t find a power cord. I laid on the floor under the tree, fluffing limbs and searching for the power cord. I did notice two light connections with a bit of red tape on the ends. I have low vision but I can see red. This was beginning to be like a big puzzle and I was determined to figure it out. I went to the garage and for the next section of tree and the power cord was on that part. I also noticed another cord that had five light connections on the end. Ummm…. Okay there were five connectors and power cord on this piece and two connectors on the bottom piece. I decided to plug the power cord in and connect all the light connectors I could find. The lights started to light up. There was still one more light connection I could not find. I went and got the final top piece and attached it. I found one more light connector there and attached it to the remaining one and BINGO!! It all lit up. I lifted my hands and said “YES”! I was so tickled and pleased that I was able to do it myself. Ron was pretty astonished. Truth be told, there was a whole lot of prayer going on. “Lord helps me do this”. “Lord where are those light connectors”? On and on it went and piece by piece God allowed me the ability to connect the pieces. Christmas lights are my favorite part of decorations. Just having the lights turned on the trees is so soothing.

When “push comes to shove, it’s ok if you’re pushing yourself. Persistence pays off. I started today like I start every day, in prayer. I asked God to help me be a blessing to my husband and also to my mom as I helped her decorate. We had not put the big tree up since my dad passed away in 2021. Dad loved Christmas decorations. I told mom today our “tree fluffier” was in Heaven. He always fluffed the tree limbs. He would be pleased. Now to help her put the decorations on. That’s another task for another day.

Tonight Ron was telling me how I’m always consistent. I think persistent is a better word. I dont give up or give in easily. I keep trying until I get it right. That’s something he admires about me. I see it more as a way of life. Being hearing impaired and having low vision makes every day life a challenge to some degree. God has given me a positive perspective to look at tasks kind of like a game. The game of life. The goal is to get through every day with a sense of humor and giving God glory through whatever is thrown my way. Perspective is key. Ask God everyday to help you see it from His point of view. I promise that makes all the difference in the world.

I was going to put a selfie as my blog picture BUT I was a sweaty mess today. It was a no makeup, no frills kind of day.I will spare you all the chuckle. Be blessed.

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A truly beautiful thing

November 8, 2023Leave a Comment

I’m laying here on the bed considering “calling it a day and hitting the hay“ For anyone reading this outside the USA, thats just a figure of speech meaning I’m tired and ready for a good nights sleep. My heart is so full right now though and while the day is fresh on my mind, I figured I would get some blogging done.

It seems like this is going to be one of those really transparent blogs. From time to time those are good to share. I love when people are real and genuine.

Towards the end of summer my Bible study group decided to pick up with our Fall study. The only setback was our leader was a part of a different study and wasn’t able to join us. When the girls asked if I would lead the study, I remember slowly responding, okay. Inwardly I was asking God, “Are you serious Lord? How can I do this? I cant see the book. “. There are four girls in our Bible study group: one hearing and three deaf. I am also legally blind. We all have different reading skills and different ways of learning. I knew the book we were planning to do was a bit difficult for a couple of our members but they wanted to try anyway. Over the summer one had told me she liked it best when someone explained things to her. Kind of like acting it out in story form. I have kept that in mind.

Funny thing, when you tell God He’s got the wrong person for the job, He will prove you wrong. I cant tell you how many times I’ve flat out said “Lord help me. I cant do this”. Every time I buckled down to give it my best try, I end up standing amazed at how God is working.

I can’t see the book unless it is under my video magnifier machine. So I sit in our home office in from of my machine with the book zoomed in so I can see. I have my ipad notes ready to take notes to teach from and use the iPhone to look up scripture on YouVersion app. I like being able to see different transplations,when trying to interpret into sign language. Some translations are easier to interpret than others. Sign language is in a different word order and conceptual. As I prepare my notes I’m trying to see it from their perspective and word the notes in such a way they can really gleam from the study. Since it’s hard for me to even see my ipad notes unless they are zoomed in large, going over the notes again and again so I dont have to look frequently has been the best approach so far and the girls are participating. That is so so beautiful.

Over the last two weeks we have been studying Leah and Rachel who were both married to Jacob. To be honest, I’m not a fan of speculation. God has given us His Holy Bible that was inspired by the Holy Spirit. In my point of view, you don’t add anything to it nor take anything away from it. While we are getting a lot out of the this study, some things the author says doesn’t quite sit right with us. Meaning we aren’t in total agreement, simply because the author speculates about certain aspects of the study. This really creates some awesome discussions among us. Today one of my deaf friends took the open Bible on the table and began searching for a certain scripture to prove her point. My other deaf friend thought she knew what she was looking for and they found it together. Talking about awesome. These two girls just bought their bibles last fall and now they are digging in deeper to see what God has to say about something. That is a truly beautiful thing. There is nothing more beautiful that a person fully surrendered and submissive to the Lord.

I would have never thought I’d ever be teaching a bible study. However I am a willing empty vessel that God is choosing to prove He can use. It is so humbling and exhausting. God can use anything He wants to full fill His divine purpose.

Just about every week I find myself saying, “God help me. I can’t do this. It’s too much.” Then in response, each time I say that, God pours His grace, enabling God to get it done. I am in awe of how God works. He chooses the broken things to bring about His desires.

Moral of this blog, never say never. In everything do it for the glory of God. You’d be surprised at how many people are watching how we handle situations. Make it a priority to shine for the Lord. It’s a dark world in need of light. Be willing to be a light for Jesus.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Your influence

August 20, 20232 Comments

Have you ever stopped to think about the influence you have on others, be it good or bad? Think about it. We all Impact someone. Our decisions, choices, words, actions, attitudes, perspective etc have the ability to impact others around us. Whether we like it or not, we do influence not only family, friends, coworkers, neighbors but even the people you pass in the store.

You might be thinking; I’m too young , too old, too small, disabled, sick, etc. There are so many excuses we can come up with to explain why we can’t make a difference. I totally understand this. I recently came across an African proverb that really made me think. If you think you’re too small to make a difference, you haven’t spent the night with a mosquito. That’s kind of funny but thought provoking and true. Something so small and insignificant can leave a real mark.

Let me give you an example. Years ago when I was doing some volunteer work in college, a little girl battling leukemia gave me the biggest lesson on empathy. We were drawing pictures and her person had no hair. I drew hair on my person. The little girl pointed out that she didn’t have hair anymore because of her chemotherapy. That one small experience has impacted me for life. I seriously try to think about how things influence those around me. I want the best for everyone. Sensitivity is not a flaw. It shows you’ve been wounded by life and desire to help others avoid it.

The word influencer has become a popular thing on social media. Our son is friends with several social media influencers that have millions of followers. I’ve seen lots of what they post: Some good, some not so much. I really don’t get it. I wonder often if they realize the impact they have on the younger generation. You would think with tons of followers seeing what they post, they would think twice before sharing. I guess that’s maturity speaking. I can hear them now saying, “It’s all in good fun.” I was young once and thank God there was no social media back then. Ecclesiastes‬ ‭10‬:‭12 gives fair warning, “The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious, But the lips of a fool shall swallow him up;” (NKJV)

When I was growing up we used to sing a song called “Pass it on” at camp. I remember the nights we would have a big bonfire and circle around singing: It only takes a spark to get a fire going, and soon all those around can warm up in its glowing. That’s how it is with God’s love, once you’ve experienced it. You want to spread to everyone, you want to pass it on….

What are we passing on? What are you influencing? Let’s make it good. Let’s keep it positive. I’ve been told by a younger person that I’m all sunshine & rainbows and a bit over the top. Gotta love it. At least it’s positive. Seriously! I don’t care.et’s be purposeful and mindful of our influence. People are watching whether we realize it or not. Let’s make a difference.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

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A plate FULL = Life

August 10, 20232 Comments

Me wearing my new reading glasses to blog.

Today on the way to my optometrist appointment, Ron and I were talking. He mentioned people having “a lot on their plate”. I responded, “Yes life is like a full plate of issues… Lord I want to go on a “Diet”. Will you take away some things on my plate?” I know others would like less problems and more joy. In this fallen world though, we will have struggles and trials. I guess it’s all in how we respond and who we cast the burden on.

Seeing an optometrist was a new experience today. Walking into Target to get my eyes checked was much less intimidating than seeing an ophthalmologist. The examination room was pretty much the same set up as my other doctor. This doctor was so kind and took the time to listen to my concerns and try to optimize what I presently see. We started with the chart on the wall. I could see the big E and the next line. The third line I could partially see. I explained I don’t see it all. Some of the letters I don’t see. If I look to the right of what I am trying to see, it looks a little better. Same thing happens when I look slightly below what I’m viewing. We tried different lens which brought a little clarity but not much. We went on to check to see if reading glasses would help. There is a slight improvement but she said prescription glasses were so pricey it might not be worth the cost. She said to try 3.25 strength reading glasses. There was the temptation to shed some tears because once again there was really nothing that could help much. She said to speak LIFE over my eyes and vision. I sure did appreciate that! In 49 years of eye exams, that was a first! My doctor actually spoke life into my situation.

Ron and I left the appointment and we’re heading to get groceries. We decided to stop at a Walgreens on a whim, to try out some 3.25 reading glasses. Ron found some and I went around the store seeing if I could see any better. There was a slight improvement. In the greeting card section, I could read the category markers: birthday, baby boy, baby girl, etc. We decided to buy the glasses and Ron immediately opened them for me. I was excited to try them out in the grocery store. In the produce section I noticed “Pink lady” apples. I had never seen that before. Ron usually finds most things in the store but with the glasses I was trying. I found the fresh shredded parmesan cheese in the deli. Although Ron saw a cheaper variety so he helped me with that selection. I wanted to see if I could notice differences on canned tomatoes. I asked Ron if it said fire roasted diced tomatoes and I was right. When he was checking out, I looked at magazine covers and was able to make out more than usual, although still not a substantial amount. But these tiny improvements made my heart happy.

When I got home I tried them out while texting my mom. I wanted to let her know about my appointment. I can see the iPad keyboard a little bit better. Usually I have so many typos it could crack you up with laughter or make you cry. I typed a text and sent it without editing it. I explained what I was doing to test out if I could see while texting better. There ended up being just a few typos and it wasn’t too much of a puzzle. Each of these tiny improvements are a win.

If you have good vision, you have such a huge treasure. If you have good hearing as well, then your cup of blessings runneth over. Seriously! Sometimes while reading on social media, I notice when people complain about every little thing. I just shake my head and think, if they only knew. Life happens to us all. Don’t sweat the small things. Live in the moment and don’t worry about tomorrow or what people think. I told the doctor today that some people don’t understand I look slightly beside them when talking to them. I’ve had people to try to get in my “line of vision”. I just happen to see a little better when I am looking to the side or slightly down. I’m not being rude, it’s just how my eyes work. She said not to worry about what people think. She’s right.

So tonight I am wearing my new reading glasses while blogging. I see my iPad keyboard slightly better. Ron took thee picture of me blogging. This is me! Every little victory is worth a celebration dance, I’m so thankful for my husbands support. He actually might understand a bit more about the way I see now because the doctor took the time. He is such a big help and doesn’t complain about taking me places. I’m thankful to the Lord for my many blessings. I’m also thankful that God can fix what’s broken in my body. All in His perfect tim, according to His perfect will.

On another note, I hit my two year blogging anniversary recently. In two years I have written 150 blog post and had 4,459 views. The blogs have been read in United Kingdom, China, India, Ireland, Canada, United States, Kenya, Philippines, Ecuador, and so many more. I am totally shocked and humbled. I don’t have a proud bone in my body. I know it’s only through God it has come this far. Many weeks I wonder if it’s my last week because I feel there is nothing to say, then the Lord speaks to my heart once again and I begin to type. One blog at a time, spreading encouragement and God’s light to a world in need of HOPE. Yes it can be tough but God has us and leads us every step of the way. To God be the glory!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Never “Clip” ones wings!

July 7, 20234 Comments

Every once in a blue moon the “Fireball” in me arises. It’s been almost two weeks since my last blog. Many ideas have been swirling in my head but I never sat down to get them in writing. Maybe one day soon I will share. This topic I’m about to dive into is a personal one and opinions vary on the issue. Tempers can also vary. Just being honest. So what is this topic, you might be wondering….. disability income. You can take this with a grain of salt and read on.

I have been receiving disability income for years but not because I don’t want to work. On the contrary, I would love to be in the work place earning an honest living. Working and being able to accomplish something that meets goals is a self esteem builder. However, some people just don’t have all that it takes to be in the work force. It has been a frustrating journey for me. I graduated with honors from college in 1992. I won one of the two senior of the year awards in the Department of Health, Recreation and Safety. They could not decide between me and one other senior so they awarded us both. (My framed diploma and Senior award have been collecting dust in the attic for 30 years.) I had an awesome “college career” but the professional one has been disappointing.

For several years I worked as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist in a subacute hospital. I quit that job and began working for my fathers business doing clerical work part time. He had bought a video magnifier so I could do the clerical paper work. Years down the road, Dad decided to sell his business and retire. The new owner let me go because he didn’t have my position at his other location.

Around this time my husband Ron met a legally blind man who told him about Social Security disability income. Let’s just say, you would have liked to have been a fly on the wall when he ran that idea by me. I said, “No I’m not doing that!” Was it a matter of pride? I don’t think so. I worked my tail off in college to expand my brain. Sure, I can’t see or hear well and I can’t drive, but I can think. I have a mind and know how to use it. It was a HOT topic with me but I finally gave in. It sure was a battle though. We had people that actually asked Ron why I didn’t work. It would take the right job, the right employer and the right circumstances for it to work. Do you know how difficult it is to align those things? My disabilities are not easily visible. I look normal. (At least I think so.😂 However some one might disagree.)

A few years ago, God laid it on my heart to write my autobiography. I marvel at how that came about. God has taught me so many things through the struggles and surrender. I will honestly say He gave me the encouragement and grit to push through and get my story into words. There were many hurdles and many tedious hours of typing with the computer zoomed in large. Am I proud of the book and accomplishment of writing it? Not really because I know I did not do it on my own but God divinely helped me. It’s been a God given gift to put things in writing. If you only saw the process , you would surely shake your head in wonder at the resilience it takes. I’ve sold a few books (a couple of hundred) and spoken at a few gathering. Self publishing through Westbow Press and blogging for the past two years have cost me a “pretty penny”. I’ve given away some books to simply encourage others to never give up and get the word out. I hope to one day get out of this what I have put into it. The eternal rewards will far outweigh the earthly ones. In truth, that’s what it’s all about.

It really burns me up when people suggest disability income when things don’t look so bright. It should not be the first choice in challenging circumstances. Seriously! If someone can work, don’t ever suggest disability income. It is like clipping someone’s wings. It is a knock to someone’s self esteem. It might look rosy short term but in the long term, it takes its toll. There is something about working and doing a good job that builds self worth. If someone has lost some abilities but still has enough to manage, encourage them to FLY! Don’t you dare clip their wings and deflate them by suggesting a hand out when they have the capability to soar with Gods help. I’ve heard the suggestion too many times over the years and I simply disagree with it. Don’t get me wrong, social security disability income has been a blessing for me even though I’d rather have the ability to work. Some people like me just have a lot stacked up against them. At last evaluation I can see 20/400. Did you catch my wording? Can see.. I can see some thing. Don’t take that away. Disabilities do not define who you are! Don’t ever forget that!

Speak life and encouragement to people. The Bible tells us in Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭24, “Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, Sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.” (NKJV). Try it! Don’t take my word for it, God’s Word says so.

The “Fireball” in me is finished with my “Soapbox Speech of the day”. If you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. This was not my usual blog but there comes a time when you need to speak up. I’m thankful for this gift to share when God puts something on my heart. Speaking engagements are always welcome. It God opens a door, He will give me what’s needed to walk through it. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. (Hard cover soft cover, and e-book formats.) I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. All for the Glory of God. Be blessed!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

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