Showing posts with label Depression. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Depression. Show all posts

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Devotional: To Be Grateful

There are times where I don't feel as grateful as I could. I struggle some days. I'll think about how things could be better. But, then I remember. I have a lot to be grateful for. I'm able to keep going and do what needs to be done. And that's really all I want when it comes right down to it. I don't need much to be content. And I've had it way, way worse, so I'm okay right now. Of course, there are days where I wish I felt better. I'm sure a lot of people feel this way. It seems like so many are suffering with mental and physical health issues.

I also know that you shouldn't feel ashamed for not feeling grateful. Especially, if you're in a hard place. I certainly wasn't when I was struggling. I wished all the time for a better life. As of now, I've had to fight hard to be where I am. But during those times, I knew that feeling sad, disappointed, and upset were completely normal to experience. I wanted what appeared to be good blessings in other people's lives. I wanted what they had. It was hard to accept, but I knew that my life was different. I wasn't them, and they weren't me. 

Life is not always what we see either. I may appear to be doing well, and I am in some ways. But I struggle a lot with my health. Each day is a challenge. There are days where I wish I could stay in bed. It's not easy what I'm doing. But, I keep pushing forward because I have to, and I still pursue the things that bring me joy. It's something that I have to do in order to feel like my life is normal again. I don't want to survive, I want to live. That's why I work hard. That's why I write, blog, work, and take lessons. I can't not do anything.

I guess that's why I'm constantly learning to be grateful. I try to appreciate the good things even if they're small. And truly, it's those things that keep me going. I live for the beautiful sunsets, the flowers, soft-kitty purrs, and laughter with the ones I love. It's those things that keep me going, and I'm eternally grateful for them. Ultimately, they bring me joy - which reminds me to be content and at peace. And I'm just so grateful to God for all those blessings He gives in my life. I also hope that you may receive them, as well. 💓

"Whatever you do in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father." - Colossians 3:17 NASB

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Monday, May 12, 2025

Book Spotlights: A Poem From Butterfly Wings



Today, I thought I'd share a poem from my book. Butterfly Wings is a personal collection of 30 poems and devotions. It's my first book. At this moment, I had an idea to offer a poem to my readers on this blog. I hope you enjoy the poem! There's 29 more within the book. All different themes to them. The book itself is a project born out of sorrow and joy. I felt like I needed to write it for anyone that needed hope. And I really enjoyed putting it together. 💙 This is kind of a secret, but I may write a second one. I'm going to pray about it first!


No Fear

I used to live in fear,
Would often shed a tear,
But no more this year.

No fear, I have rest,
Not from me, only the best,
From Heaven - this is a test.

No fear, He has me,
I already know, can see,
That I just have to be.

No fear, I'm loved,
But it's from high above,
Didnt' have to force it - shoved.

Finally, the quiet is here,
No more fear, not even a tear,
Peace - see, breathe, and hear.

I'm done, it's all over,
Clean from this; perfectly sober,
From the pain - no more, Grace



If you'd like to read the rest of my book, you can find it at the bookstore ...And Books, Too! It's also available on Amazon in paperback and kindle. Plus, if you'd like to learn more, you can visit my pages for my book and my ministry. Thank you! Really appreciate your support.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Devotional: God's Ways Are Higher



We might assume we know what God is thinking. We also may proclaim how God does things in the lives of this world. Nothing could be further from the truth. God is not us. He's God. His thoughts and ways are not the same as ours. We might presume to know them, but that's it. That's as far as we can get. We can't control God. We can't control His thoughts or His ways. The world often gets into trouble with this. It even likes to speak for Him, but that can be dangerous. God is not bound by us. Nothing can bind His thoughts. He's I AM.

Honestly, we can forget that God is all-powerful and all-knowing. We shouldn't try to figure Him out, because that's not possible. We can, of course, love Him. We can grow close. But since He's deep and holy, I don't think we can ever be able to know Him completely. I do mean, when we see His creation and everything that exists because of Him, we remember that He's vast. He's not simple. And since He's all-powerful, we can't possibly predict Him. We also must not assume for Him. Now, God can give us words, but they're His, not ours.

Our thinking is limited compared to His. People seem to forget this. His thoughts are so far that it's compared to the height of the heavens from the earth. That's how different and long they are. This actually should give us comfort. We can trust Him because He knows much better. Remember, He knows all. And it's good that He's not like us in His ways and thoughts. On the other side, we came from God. He created us, so yes, we get a likeness from Him. But we're not infinite like Him. He's holy. He's God. He's I AM. Remember this.

When we don't know what God is doing in our lives, it can be excruciatingly hard. But we know that He loves us. He cares for us. This world is not what it should be because of sin, so we have to live with this mess. But we know that God is trustworthy. I don't know about you, but I'm going to trust Him, because He's got a plan. I don't, and my own plans aren't particularly good. I also love how He's God. I'm not powerful. I can't control anything. In the end, He's got you, and He's got me. That's all I need in this world to feel at peace.

God's ways are higher.

"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways," declares the Lord. For 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 NASB

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Devotional: Seeing Flowers Fade



As much as we want flowers to stay alive, they often fade away. All plants appear to age and withdraw from life at some point in their existence. Their fragile beauty is something that I keep in my heart. And I look forward to them blooming each spring and summer. But can I completely count on them? No, unfortunately. Many earthly things can destroy them, and they can fade indefinitely. You know what doesn't fade? God's Word. It cannot be destroyed. His Word stands forever. Nothing can take His Word. Absolutely nothing.

Because God's Word is eternal, I can rely on it. We can all hold His words within our heart, mind, and soul. He can also speak into existence anything with His powerful voice. He can create with His words. He can do anything! His words that also were spoken through His Word - the Bible, will happen. They will take place in history. His words are unchanging, too. They won't fade, I promise. They cannot. This is something that encourages me, especially during my hard times. I know that I can hold onto hope with His words. 

Sometimes, though, we might want to hold tightly to what we see in the world. Earthly things seem tangible. And they might but won't last long. I know that God's creation is beautiful and inspiring. I, too, look forward to the flowers blooming. But we may find ourselves in a place that's devoid of flowers. And if we do, we can remember God's Word. It can give us what we need during that time. Flowers can bring beauty into our lives, but they cannot always heal us. That's when we need to switch to His life-giving words.

Take the time today to read God's Word. He may want to speak with you. Today, I pray that you receive wisdom and peace from reading His words. If you listen intently, you may hear His voice. It may even come as a soft whisper or as strong thunder. I truly, highly encourage memorizing some verses, too. Remember, God's Word will stand forever. The enemy may try to destroy it every chance he gets, but he'll fail. Nothing can, or ever will, make God's Word fade. I can promise that. I can also promise that He can speak to you through it.

Seeing flowers fade. God's Word eternal.

"The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever." - Isaiah 40:8 NASB

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Friday, March 28, 2025

Photo Quests: Life Is Growing

Intro: There are a few flowers blooming - two are violets and daffodils. When I went outside with my camera, my goal was to capture growth. I was able to find some plants making progress in growing. Soon, there'll be flowers. Like you, I'm sure, I can't wait!











Quest Ending: The photos I took may not be thrilling but seeing them gives me joy. When life is overwhelming, I look to nature. It fills me up with hope when I see life growing. It's so encouraging to witness new life emerging from the ground. And may they keep growing!

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Devotional: Spring Brings Hope



Spring officially starts tomorrow. I've been looking forward to it, and I'm sure that many others have, too. Out of all of the seasons, though, spring seems to be special. There's just something about it. I think it's because of the symbolism behind it. It's a season of rebirth, birth, and hope. It's also when everything comes alive. The flowers bloom, which is one of my favorite parts. Because of that, spring is my second-loved season. I love walking outside with my camera to take pictures of the birds, flowers, and yes, even bugs. This season itself awakens something inside me. I can't quite explain it, but it's wonderful.

Hope. It's what spring brings with it. A new beginning. Whenever this season enters my life, I get excited. I start planning, organizing, and preparing for the future. I look forward with anticipation of what God has waiting for me. Sure. Hard things can still happen, but I want to water the garden that's also within me. I guess that's what I'm trying to explain about how I feel with spring. Not only are there flowers blooming outside, but within my heart, as well. That garden is a lovely feeling all-together, and I know that God is preparing my heart for what's ahead. I can then tend to my growing garden within, too.

I know right now a lot of people need hope. I remember going through some of the toughest days without it myself, and it didn't matter to me if it was spring or not. I wish that I would've held onto hope, even if it felt like there was none. It may not have changed my situation, but maybe it would've helped me more in some way. The first time I went through hardship, I was devoid of hope. I couldn't believe things could get better. They did. But a second time came around, and once again, no hope. I'm in a better place now, but I still struggle. And maybe, things will get hard again. But I'll have hope this time.

If you're struggling, I pray that you find hope in your life. Even if it's in the small things. Even if you have to take one day at a time. Spring is coming, even so, an eternal spring someday. I hold onto both. And the hope of God. I know that I can still cling to His hope. I'm not giving it up. If you ever need hope yourself, read scripture, you'll find it there. It's also in the small, everyday things of life. Looking at the sky or at a flower, reminds me of hope. It's there. I promise. It even seems like the world itself is looking for some kind of hope. My wish is that many people will find it because God is hope's answer.

Spring brings hope.

"The blossoms have already appeared in the land; the time has arrived for pruning the vines, and the voice of the turtledove has been heard in our land." - Song of Solomon 2:12 NASB

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Devotional: God Is With You

I deal with fear. Fear of the world. And my own anxieties. It can be a daily thing. As I scroll through social media and the news, fear appears to be rampant everywhere. We've become unsure. Unsure of our futures, life itself, our loved ones, actually everything. Because of that, I wanted to write a devotional about fear today. I have written another devotional about fear before on this blog. You can read it here. And you know what, I felt like writing another one again. I hope this devotional encourages you as much as writing it did for me.

Fear can be an overwhelming feeling. It can follow us around wherever we go. It lurks around corners. It hides in the darkness, ready to envelope our beings. We may know what could happen to us in the future, but since we can only guess, we're not entirely sure. It's that uncertainty. It gets me every time. It's especially hard for me because of my anxiety, my need to feel in control, and the constant thinking. I'm an over-thinker, so the fears can really be hard to face. I usually try to combat it in my own way. Doesn't always work.

What works is God. Many years past, I didn't know how to deal with fear. But now, God is the answer. When I'm faced with fear, I just pass it to Him. I trust God, so I know I can rely on Him. Things could get hard, yes, but at least I won't be alone facing them. He reminds me constantly that He's with me, and that everything is going to be okay. I don't have to worry. Sure, I may still feel some fear and anxiety, but I have a way to control it - He controls it. I don't. I can go on with my life, allowing Him complete control.

When we're starting to get that prick of fear, all we have to do is seek Him out. Pray. Read His Word. Memorize scripture. Write. Talk with a trusted, Christian friend. God gave us these things, so that we could communicate with Him. He loves us. He's going to protect our souls. He's with us everywhere we go. Everywhere. He's with us at the grocery store, the movie theater, and even in the car. We're not alone, and that's a comforting thought. Remember, God will not leave us. He is with you. He is with me. You're safe.

God is with you. Always.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified nor dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:9 NASB

Do you need prayer? Send me an email at: thewanderingwithgrace@gmail.com

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Devotional: When The Holy Spirit Speaks



I was looking for protection and refuge from the world. I had taken a picture of the sky that evening. I wanted to share it on social media but didn't know what to say. I decided that a verse might be a good choice. I sometimes like to add them with a photo I took. I looked up verses on google for ones that meant protection or safety. I came across Psalm 46:1. It seemed well-chosen for that night. After that night, I went to work as usual in the day. I wasn't expecting anything to happen from it, but I would later find a gift.

Once I got home, I decided to do God Time. It's where I read devotionals, write, and pray. Well, I hadn't done it in a month, so I felt like I needed to, and I wanted to spend time with God again. One of the devotionals I picked up had a daily devo and a verse attached to it. I opened the devotional, and the verse written above the writing was Psalm 46:1. I couldn't believe it. It was the same verse that I had selected the night before. Was the Holy Spirit trying to talk to me? Was He confirming the verse from the night before?

That afternoon, I was struck with surprise and joy. The Holy Spirit comforted me with that verse, and now I feel completely safe within God's arms. I know He watches over me, but sometimes I still feel afraid. But He knows how I feel each day. And He protects me and encourages me with His mighty love. I'm so thankful to the Holy Spirit for giving me that verse, because now I'm going to hold tight to it. But I also felt like I needed to share it with others, so that's why I added it to my devotional today. It was meant to be shared.

God gave me some color and light again in my life. It's no longer bleak. Sure. There might be some hard days, but His love will always get me through. And I know He's with me all the time. He demonstrated it clearly. And He's with you all the time, too. Seek Him out. That's what He was saying to me, as well, and to you. Seek Him out. He's longing to hear from you, and He'll provided you with comfort through His Word. Thank you, Jesus. Thank you for comforting me with your Word. And for the ability to share it with others.

He's there for us. Waiting. The Holy Spirit speaks.

"God is our refuge and strength, a very ready help in trouble." - Psalm 46:1 NASB

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson 

Thursday, January 9, 2025

Book Review: Hush, Little Mommy


Book: Hush, Little Mommy
Author: Lori'el Tritto


Book Synopsis:

52 thoughts of hope and healing for moms who struggle with postpartum depression.

Some of us think motherhood comes softly with tiny toes, light-hearted giggles, and warm cuddles in a rocking chair. But, what if it comes as a storm, wild and dripping wet with high winds and low-hanging fog, that leaves a mom's heart shaken and foggy?

Lori'el wants to invite you into a grace-filled place to find hope and courage if your journey into motherhood begins with the storm of depression, a mood disorder, or if you just need a bit of encouragement.

Book Review:

The author approached me about reading her book for a review. I gladly accepted. I enjoy reading various books on different subjects. This one was unique. Hush, Little Mommy is a devotional and journal for women with postpartum depression. It includes scripture, anecdotes, and personal reflections. While I've never endured postpartum depression, I liked reading this book. I believe it's a light that shines in the darkness for mothers, and I really can see it as being incredibly helpful for those times. And Lori'el did a wonderful job putting it together to create one cohesive piece as a devotional and journal.

I liked how honest and down-to-earth Lori'el was in her book. I think this is her first book, and it's a much needed one for the world today. The stories in each chapter are especially helpful. Actually, I found all of it to be encouraging. Its kindness radiates from the written words on every page. Lori'el is a gentle and lovely individual, and her writing reflects that kindness. I'm so glad she wrote this. It's a beneficial devotional to have as a mother. 

I've struggled with depression myself, but I know it's not the same thing as postpartum depression. I just know what it's like to be in the dark, and I really hope Lori'el will also continue to write more comforting books like this. I can see her doing more devotionals. For this book, I highly recommend Hush, Little Mommy by Lori'el Tritto for any mother struggling with postpartum depression. If you're interested in reading this book, you can find it on Amazon here. It's available in paperback. 💓 Thank you to Lori'el for the book.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Tuesday, December 24, 2024

Christmas Blog Advent: Day 24 - Devotional: Christ Is Within Us



Christ came down to earth as a baby. When you think about it, He could've done things differently. He didn't have to be born. But He did. His start was humble. But He also had a goal. To defeat death and win. To save us from our sins. To ultimately, live within us. Because of His miraculous birth, He resides within each believer. We're not empty. We're filled with His love and grace. In fact, it's His light that shines from within that very spot inside us. Others can also see Him in us. And around us in all we do to bring Him glory. 

I know that the days I feel lonely, I can remember that Christ is within me. I'm never alone. To feel whole, all I have to do is read His word, pray, and spend time in His creation outdoors. And hopefully, as my life feels filled up with daily connection, I can shine His light. This light we have is powerful. It can bring love, hope, and peace to many. In order to do it, we need to serve Christ in everything we do. Even the little things in life can offer someone an opening to His light. To remind them that they, too, aren't alone.

So, when you're doing really anything, just remember that Christ is within you. And He's strong. With faith, you can move mountains. That's how strong He is. He can do anything. If God wills, you can reach anyone. Do anything to bring Him glory. But I feel like it's good to start out small. Allowing your light to grow. Someday, it could be so bright that others can't help but feel at peace around you. They'll know that what you have inside is something that they want. And you can give it to them. His light is free to give to anyone.

Even if we put the manger away for next Christmas, we can still remember that we have Jesus within our hearts. What He did. What He accomplished. And that His light is with you. It'll never glow dim. It's a light that can be shared with others. For me, I'm sad that Christmas is over, but I know that I'll still carry the light from His life within me. Even into the new year. In fact, I think it'll be present in many people's lives as we proceed forward. So, may even His light within you shine brightly like the star over the manger. 

The star's light guiding others to Him. Because Christ is within us.

"The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world." - John 1:9 NIV

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Sunday, December 8, 2024

Christmas Blog Advent: Day 8 - Devotional: Every Season Has A Reason



We often attribute summer and winter to be hard seasons. Of course, depending on where you live, certain seasons can be worse than others. Here, summer and winter appear to be the most difficult ones. Whatever season is the most dreaded can take a toll on us, and we can even reluctantly go through winter. We may or may not look forward to it every year, but winter is needed, especially for nature. We might hesitate to see winter as essential, but it really is. Each season has a reason on this planet, and God orchestrates it all.

I see seasons in nature as seasons in our lives. We can go through some pretty tough days, and they may seem like winter to us. All we can perceive is the cold, the snow, and the worsening driving conditions. I know that winter can be harder than spring or autumn, but it's usually a season we have to endure. I may like winter, but I really don't look forward to clearing snow off my car and heating it up inside. Driving in the ice even gives me anxiety. Despite these struggles, I still enjoy winter. It has some good in it, after all.

Earth depends on winter every year. It has many important uses. And some places have snow all year, while some don't have any at all. I think that learning to adapt to changes in our lives is crucial, whether we have snow or not in winter. God gave us this season, so it's become something we have to regulate with. We may not want to, but it's part of our lives. There are days that are hard in my own life, and I wonder why I have to deal with them. But that's life. We have times where life is either easier or harder. But we must endure.

To get through winter in our lives, we must focus on God. Read His Word. Fellowship with others. Pray. There are ways to help us during these trying times, so that we can all keep going. Because we will eventually get through it. Winter never lasts which is so comforting. Spring is always right around the corner; we just have to be patient in our afflictions. The nice thing to remember, is that it's normal to have struggles, just like it's normal to have winter. We all go through this, but we have God to guide us. And we'll be okay.

Every season has a reason.

"For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven."
- Ecclesiastes 3:1 ESV


Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Sunday, September 8, 2024

Devotional: Laugh At Fear

 
Most of us face fear. Our circumstances could be different, but the same feeling is shared. It's that sinking feeling in the pit of our stomachs. Even our heartbeats speed rapidly, not slowing down. We can also pace because our minds are frantic with worry. I've experienced fear, too. Too great, actually. Fear is unfortunately powerful and can make us act so desperate. Once it grabs hold of your mind, it's hard to shake off. And when fear takes over, anxiety begins to grow within us. It can cause stress, and even health problems. Our fears begin to take its toll on our bodies and heart, actually weighing us down.

What's the antidote? I wish I knew what the ultimate cure was. Fear is something that probably can't be taken out of our lives completely. It'll probably always be there, deep within us. I know. That doesn't sound too encouraging. There are, however, some things we can do to fight it. Instead of allowing fear complete control of our lives, we can find solace, bravery, and love. But the most ultimate way to fight it, is to laugh. Yes, laugh. If you can stand tall and laugh in the face of fear, you've eased some of its hold on you. Just show fear that it has now power over you. That, it has no say in your life.

Laugh. Laugh because you know that Jesus is with you. Fear can't defeat Him. And it won't defeat you. Yes, fear will always be there. It won't forever leave, but you've got what you need to fight it. You've got Christ, and He's your safe place amidst those dark storms. In fact, with Him, you can challenge anything. Fear might be right in your face, and you know what you can do? You can laugh at it. Whether it be a little chuckle, or a hearty one, it doesn't matter. It has the same freedom either way. You'll see. Laughter will loosen those chains that fear has restrained us in. I promise you'll feel lighter.

I still deal with fear. I know it's there, and it's a struggle. I remember. Jesus is with me, and I can laugh at it with Him. Honestly, though, fear is a huge struggle for me, so I suffer from it daily. To combat this, I got a bracelet that has a cross beaded within it. It's my reminder to laugh at fear. I wear it as often as I can. If you deal with fear, too, I suggest doing the same thing. I love that Jesus gives us His Word, and tools to use for the fear in our lives. Laughter just happens to be one of them. I know that when fear comes around, I'm going to keep laughing, because I know that Christ has me. And He has you, as well, my friend.

Laugh at the future, and what may come of it.

"She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future." - Proverbs 31:25 NLT

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Sunday, August 11, 2024

Devotional: You Have An Enemy



We all have this one thing in common. We fight the same enemy; most are unaware of it. We go through our days, completely oblivious to the hidden danger. I mean, if we can't see this enemy, then it's not a problem, right? Some might even laugh at the thought. This is no laughing matter, however. The enemy we're up against has a name. It's Satan. He's the world's worst nightmare, and he moves through all our lives, fully present. We may not be able to see him, but we can see the destruction he causes. It's everywhere.

I want you to think of the worst problems we face today. I can think of many instances where evil is constant and seeming to grow rapidly. When we hear on the news a story that is truly heartbreaking, we can see the darkness at work. It will only spread, because Satan preys on all of us. It doesn't matter if you're a Christian or not. At some point in your life, you've most likely seen what he can do. I also feel that Satan likes to prey on the innocent the most, like children and animals. He causes as much pain as possible.

Yes, he's vile. He'll go after anything or anyone to cause havoc. We, of course, are not completely powerless against our adversary. To lessen his hold on us, we can pray, spread kindness, and just make this world a somewhat habitable place for everyone. However, humans are selfish, and we give in to the temptations of Satan. The most worst thoughts imaginable become reality in this harsh environment. The one thing I don't understand is how we can blame God for any of this. Satan is to blame.

I've become more aware of the spiritual side - which is why I'm writing about this today. Life is a daily battle. My own battle is that I have horrible thoughts about myself. I can't always seem to get rid of them. One day, during these thoughts, a powerful line came into my mind, "You would be the first into battle." It gave me chills, and I knew it was the Holy Spirit. It gave me courage to face the daily battles I go through, and I hope this devo encourages you to never stop fighting our enemy. But, don't worry. In the end, we win.

Keep fighting.

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places." - Ephesians 6:12 NASB

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Sunday, June 16, 2024

Devotional: Beeee Happy

We all go through hardship. Some more than others, but experiencing sadness is something we all must face. Depression itself is a dark place to be. It's not only sadness, however. It's darker than that. I, myself, went through a time where I felt like I was in a room without much light. Today, life can still be hard, but I've chosen to let that light in as much as I possibly can. We may even be in a place that is desperate. In that case, a positive word may not help. Depression can be clinical. I don't believe we can't just get over it.

In the darkness I was in, not a lot helped. Now, I've found myself in a good place. I still struggle, as we all do, in our own ways. And I deal with sadness, and mostly, anxiety. I have anxiety about everything. It's tiring. But I digress, in that darkness I grasped for any hope I could. It appeared so far away. Like, something I struggled to touch. It was not within reach. I looked for guidance, reassurance, and lastly, hope. I couldn't see any.

At the end of a phone call, I would ask my parents for advice. My Dad had two words he would tell me that stood out to me. He would say, "be happy." It was more like, "beeee happy." He would say them with a sunny tone. It also bolstered my heart, because it was something my Grandma would often say. In fact, he got it from her. For me, I knew that things would, or could, still be hard. But, hearing him say those particular words brought both encouragement and joy. I needed that connection.

I knew he wanted me to be happy. That was enough hope for me. I had to fight. I had to fight for what I could, and I'm still fighting. I don't know what the future holds for any of us. But I know that God wishes for us to be happy. That, my parents wish for the same thing. I even got a keychain for my collection that says "bee happy" on it. You know, like a bee. It was a reminder of those words. I'm not saying that two words can change your life completely, but they sure can help. This Father's Day, I'd like to thank my Dad for always supporting me and for giving me advice. I hold those two words close to my heart.

Be Happy.

"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." - Romans 15:13

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Let's Talk About Books: My TBR Books

I have a TBR shelf. Most people do. Mine has a stack of books in different genres. Some of them have been sitting there for a while, and som...