What Inspires You?

A peaceful moment of solitude.

A sunset over the water.

A swelling piece of music.

The perfect song lyrics at the right time.

Blake's poetry.

The crisp, autumn air.

A smiling, giggling baby.

Seeing someone else achieve a goal.

A theatrical performance.

A meaningful conversation.

The Chosen series.

A half hour in a sensory deprivation tank.

Michigan football.

Stories of redemption.

More than anything, my own story - looking back now, knowing where the twists were, watching my emotions, my mistakes, my choices - and believing, beyond any possible doubt, that God was there the whole time.

In the Dark Times when I did everything wrong and hurt people I cared about.

In the Barren Times when I cried out in misery for 11 years waiting for a baby.

In the Anxious Times when I doubted my abilities in a toxic work environment.

In the Fearful Times when I watched a loved one struggle with mental and physical health.

In the Bright Times when I was given a partner who forgives and loves unconditionally.

In the Fruitful Times when my miracle child showed up.

In the Contented Times when a dream job was dropped in my lap.

In the Stable Times when medication and surgeries brought healing.

In the waiting, in the abundance, in the deafening silence and the screaming chaos.

God was there.

God IS there.

What inspires me?

This wonderful, heart-wrenching, beautiful, tearful, delightful, achy, hilarious, raw, sweet life.