In My Own World

As I sit down to write today, I’m filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Despite the storms that recently passed through, we are safe—our family, our home, even our beloved dogs. In times like these, it’s easy to focus on the chaos around us, but today I choose to reflect on the blessings that remain. Each storm brings uncertainty and fear, but as I look around, I realize that we have come through safely. Our family is intact, and our home, though tested, still stands strong. Our dogs, who sense every rumble and tremble, are by our side, reminding me that even in times of turmoil, love and loyalty endure. For all of this, I am deeply grateful. I don’t take this safety for granted, and I thank God for His protection. While we weathered this storm, I know others are facing harder realities. My heart goes out to those who were deeply affected—the families who have lost homes, the communities left in disarray. I pray that God will provide them with strength and comfort in these tr...

We’ve all had moments where we see someone splurge on the latest phone, camp out for hours to grab a new gadget, or shell out big bucks for VIP concert tickets and wonder, "Why?" It’s easy to think, "That’s so unnecessary," or question their choices. Similarly, we might see collectors spend fortunes on dolls, action figures, or rare memorabilia and think, "What’s the point?" But here’s the truth: we don’t really understand because we’re not the ones living their lives. We are simply observers, and what makes sense to us financially may be completely different from what fulfills or excites someone else. When we judge how others spend their money, we often do it from our own perspective, without knowing the personal value behind that purchase. To the person standing in line for hours to get the newest smartphone, it could represent a love for cutting-edge technology or an investment in something that makes their day-to-day life smoother. To the concert-goer ...

Sometimes, we think we’ve moved on. We think the past no longer holds any power over us, and the pain we've experienced is safely stored away, a distant memory. But then, something happens. A conversation, a situation, or even a small reminder of that old wound comes up, and suddenly, we’re right back in that place of disappointment and hurt. It feels as though nothing has changed. We thought we were healed, but it becomes painfully clear that we’re not quite there yet. I’ve found myself in that position more times than I care to admit. After thinking I had left the hurt behind, it resurfaces unexpectedly, like a ghost that refuses to be laid to rest. I realize that while I've made progress, I am still affected by the same things that broke me before. It’s frustrating, because deep down, I truly want to be healed, to be free from the grip of these emotions.  What does it mean to be truly healed? For me, it means not being shaken when the same painful situations or memories resu...