I wanted to quit… writing, thinking, breathing. I was just minding my own business, following Jesus the best I knew how, working and creating the way I was designed. And pow! The sun went down. I never saw it setting. Walking through the forest of our past can be a scary place, at any age.... Continue Reading →
One of the hardest things is not knowing what comes next. Especially when threats reach our doorstep. Generally, lists have a way of herding our steps. Whether on paper or written in our heads, patterns and boundaries seem to drive the hours. Plans, reservations, appointments. What’s on the schedule? What’s not on the schedule? Then... Continue Reading →
I’m a surefire pessimist. Just ask my optimist husband. I wasn’t finding one ray of beauty this Illinois 6-below season—but I needed to. Needed a big shot of reality for my declining attitude. With two solid months of wild winds, slippery ice, gray skies ahead it’s already a struggle not to feel depressed. The loss... Continue Reading →
Demons of depression chased me home. Hurrying, I pressed into the door. Before turning the handle, I rushed to Jesus, Whisper Your sweet everythings into my ears. The one way the raised in Christ endure in all this dust and ash is praying in spirit and truth. God knows I want to fight my own fights.... Continue Reading →
Have you ever given a gift that was blatantly unappreciated? I found one of those pivotal bible verses calligraphed onto a plaque I thought perfect for a friend. She struggles with depression. LOVE NEVER FAILS, hanging on her wall might be exactly what she needs to coax her into a brighter future. Maybe if she loved... Continue Reading →
JoAnn Downs Alo 