Category: Christianity

My Mother’s Strength

Posted on by Staci Mauney

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope (Rom 5:3-4).

Last September, my mom fell and broke her kneecap. With the subsequent surgery and recovery, she was off work for about six months. What seemed like a tragedy had a silver lining: I stayed with my parents during those months, and I spent more time with them than I normally would have. And even though I wish my mom hadn’t gotten hurt, I wouldn’t trade the time with her for anything, especially since the lockdown has kept us apart for the last couple of months. Continue reading “My Mother’s Strength” →

Living in the Moment

Posted on by Staci Mauney

Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes (James 4:14).

My Yorkie companion, Lilly, and I go for a walk almost every day. Sometimes, I hurry to get my steps in so that I can get home and go back to work. Other times, I slow down and just enjoy the time with Lilly as she explores every rock and flower along the way. (I’ve written before about how Lilly helps me slow down and enjoy our walks. You can read that post here.)

During the quarantine, I’ve worked to be intentional on our walks—to notice the fresh air, the pretty flowers, the animals cavorting through the neighborhood. This focus has led me to notice some fun things in my neighborhood like the ducks in the water at the pocket park, the squirrel running up the tree beside me, the beautifully landscaped yards, and the abandoned house covered in ivy. Continue reading “Living in the Moment” →

Promoting Creativity Through a Good Night’s Sleep

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety” (Ps 4:8).

In college, I studied all the time and went to bed by ten. I still remember one night when I stayed up to keep a friend company during the last hours of her shift working the front desk of our dorm. A couple of us joined her from ten to midnight. My friends were shocked, first of all, that I joined them, and second, that I stayed awake the entire time!

Like many of you, I’ve struggled at times with getting enough sleep. Insomnia has plagued me, while other times worry and anxiety kept me from falling asleep. Still other times, I stayed up late on purpose and then regretted it the next day.

Years ago, a neurologist told me how important a regular sleep schedule is to ward off migraines. On his advice, I tracked my sleep schedule, and I noticed a pattern: when I stayed up too late or slept too long, I had a migraine the next day. Unfortunately, I had many other migraine triggers as well, many of which were out of my control, but I could control my sleep schedule. Continue reading “Promoting Creativity Through a Good Night’s Sleep” →

Renewal in the Time of COVID-19

Posted on by Staci Mauney

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Ps 90:12 (NIV)

Due to the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) around the country, we are faced with continued quarantine and isolation. My calendar, which is usually filled to overflowing, is now clear except for a few work deadlines.

Rather than focusing on the negative, I’m looking for silver linings. I’ve become accustomed to finding lessons in everyday situations in order to write posts for this blog. This situation is so extraordinary that I know God has something for me to learn.

One message I’m hearing loud and clear is that I need to be more selective about how I spend my time. That includes taking better care of myself. My word for the year, renew, comes to mind. Continue reading “Renewal in the Time of COVID-19” →

Coping with Anxiety with Lilly Doggins

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind” (Job 12:7–10).

Fears surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19) rise every day. We’re inundated with the news twenty-four hours a day. Rising death tolls and dire predictions about hospital supplies and the economy keep us on edge. Social distancing, while necessary, leads to isolation and other negative mental health effects.

Like everyone else, I’m experiencing a myriad of emotions right now. One minute I’m calm and focused on the task at hand. The next minute I’m sad about all the loss we’re experiencing right now and worried about family members, friends, and my business. Continue reading “Coping with Anxiety with Lilly Doggins” →