Tag: connection

Connecting with a Stranger

Posted on by Staci Mauney

And after the fire came a gentle whisper. (1 Kings 19:12)

A recent trip to JCPenney provided an unexpected opportunity to connect with a stranger. When I was checking out, I noticed that the employee was wearing a sparkly necklace in the shape of a paw print. I hesitated to say anything. My shyness still comes out sometimes in these situations, but I felt a nudge, then thought, Why not? What could it hurt? Almost everyone appreciates a compliment, right?

So I complimented her on the necklace, and she told me that she’s a dog mom. She mentioned that she doesn’t have any kids of her own, but her dog is her baby. I told her that I’m the same way—and then I showed her a picture of Charlie I pulled up on my phone. She, in turn, showed me a picture of her dog. We talked about how spoiled they are and laughed, knowing exactly what the other meant. Continue reading “Connecting with a Stranger” →

The Clarity of Hindsight

Posted on by Staci Mauney

Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him. (Is 64:4)

Hindsight is twenty-twenty. It’s a cliché because it’s true. When I look back over a situation, I always have more clarity than when I am in the middle of it. While I may not understand completely, I do find lessons and areas of growth I couldn’t see at the time.

That’s the case with the recent quarantine. While many are still quarantined for various reasons—their health or the health of a loved one, their level of exposure to someone with the virus, the area where they live—most of the US has started opening up to some degree. So I may not have enough hindsight yet, but lessons are emerging. Continue reading “The Clarity of Hindsight” →

All the Small Things

Posted on by Staci Mauney

All the Small Things

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Mt 6:33).

When my car needs repaired, I turn to my dad for help. He’s an excellent mechanic and enjoys tinkering on vehicles. I’m thankful because I rarely have major car repair expenses. Recently, he changed the brake pads and rotors and then the oil in my car. When he lowered the car back to the ground, he cranked the ignition, and…it wouldn’t start. Continue reading “All the Small Things” →

Lessons from Year Three as a Small Business Owner

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” (Prov 16:3)

This month, I celebrate my three-year anniversary as a full-time professional writer and editor. Each year of this journey, I’ve looked back on the lessons I’d learned the year before. In year three, I learned the following:

  1. My health is a priority.

Continue reading “Lessons from Year Three as a Small Business Owner” →

Strangers Among Us

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you.” (3 Jn 1:5)

Recently, an older gentleman with a small dog about the size of Lilly approached me when we were leaving the park after a walk. I needed to get to work and stopping for him was a minor inconvenience. But something about this man and his dog made me pause, and I waited for them to reach us. Continue reading “Strangers Among Us” →