I've been a people pleaser. A smile permanently painted on my face in every public situation for the pleasure of others—even when offended or treated cruelly. People pleasing didn't make me kind or self-sacrificial—it left me bitter, angry, even thought myself better than others. It wasn't humility—it was hypocrisy. What a time we face today.... Continue Reading →
We were the least likely couple. And for good reason. In this picture, we walked out double doors thinking we held the future in our hands. Life was a party, and we were its guests. Six years in, I was the first to want to quit. On us, my kids, my life. Reality was hard.... Continue Reading →
"Movement is life." He said it like it was gospel. I guess if you’re needing a chiropractor, it's what you want to hear. Still, his comment hung hollow in the air. "Listen to your body. It tells you what it needs." Those were the words that touched a nerve. All day I'd been questioning what... Continue Reading →
We drove to their house like it was on fire. And it was. Up in flames after 26 years of enjoying his face. Held her in my arms tight as I could. That mama who just got the news. Her curly-headed boy went to sleep in Jesus. Her head sobbing against my chest. "It's gonna... Continue Reading →
My Mama is not to be trifled with. She and Dad left suburban life broke, but determined to give their kids what they never had. Owning land, breeding animals, and growing fields in wide open spaces was the backdrop for a family that sticks together. Before my sister and I arrived Mama birthed two boys, breech.... Continue Reading →
I was twenty-four when my knees bent to Jesus. Bringing a boatload of baggage into my born-again life. Married six years with two littles, I had a heap of bad behavior to reorganize. Cigarettes and swearing had to go. Movies, TV shows, music—all required revamping. Bible reading and morning prayer needed implanting. I had a... Continue Reading →
My parents bought a home in the country after marrying. Almost 60 years later you wouldn't recognize the place. The lengthy gravel driveway I ran barefoot is buried under burning asphalt. The mulberry tree, turning our fingers purple, was cut down decades ago. Corncrib tunnels I climbed, peeking through wooden slats, was taken by tornado.... Continue Reading →
Infant in a manger? More precisely...Savior from sin. Who wants to open a sack of sin at Christmas? Look, I like jingle belling as much as anybody, but Christmas is not all Nat King Cole and slippers under the tree. We pine for love, joy and peace, not to mention kindness and gentleness, but when... Continue Reading →
I entered the Autumn of life. Well, that is if I live to 80. If I'm gone by 60...it's Winter. If I exit tomorrow this is the last you'll hear from me. Either way leaves are resting in vibrant colors and letting go. It's been a year of heartbreak and triumphant love. Uncovering grievous secrets... Continue Reading →
JoAnn Downs Alo 