Amber Leggette-Aldrich
Painting Pictures with Words
7/11/25
Dear Christian,
You would have been 23 years old today. But I still remember the first time I held you in my arms, and how it melted my heart.
Now I have pictures to hold, and I treasure them.
I see your smiling face, and I remember how you put joy into everything you did.
I see an adventurous spirit who loved to explore.
I see a soul that loved deeply and enjoyed life.
And I miss you.
Happy Birthday in Heaven. You hold my heart forever!
Love,
Mom
HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!
7/4/25
Today is Independence Day for the U.S.A., which is a celebration of freedom and independence.
I have lived my life with a spirit of independence, which is at least partially responsible for the reason I chose to live in Alaska.
When I first moved here 37 years ago, one of the first things I noticed about the people here was their attitude of independence. Back then, Alaska was still largely cut off from the mainland, or the “lower 48” as it was called here. Many of the luxuries and conveniences taken for granted down South were not available here yet, but most of the people didn’t seem to mind.
If there was a want or need, we created, improvised, and made do with what we had on hand. Not many were likely to ask for help, but if a need was made known, there was a generous outpouring of assistance from neighbors. There were also many people that were happy to share their knowledge and expertise in surviving here.
Life could be hard and hazardous here, particularly with weather and wildlife. Even the varied terrain seemed to swallow people on a regular basis. Especially in the remote areas (which is most of Alaska), a person could find themselves in real trouble very quickly, and with no means to call for help.
But in spite of the possible dangers and hardships, the freedoms I have experienced in living here have been worth it.
Freedom is “the condition of being free of restraints, especially the ability to act without control or interference by another or by circumstances”.
Of course, with this freedom comes the responsibility for and consequences of our actions and choices. That should be very well learned and understood. It could mean the difference between life and death.
We lived our lives according to our own values, desires, and beliefs, and we left our neighbors alone to do the same.
That’s not to say that there weren’t differences of opinion and major disagreements. But for the most part, we lived in peace and harmony with our neighbors.
When your own survival requires most of your time and attention, you learn that what others think and say doesn’t matter as much as we think it does.
Today I am thankful for the opportunities to learn the things I have, and the freedom to live the life I have. I am thankful for the ability to help where I can and am wanted. And I am thankful for the freedom to be able to do what I believe is right and true.
I am still a strong-willed and independent woman, and I am still standing. To me, that is the essence of the U.S.A.
Though I may be getting older, I will remain wild and free.
Happy Birthday and God Bless America!
– Amber
Transitions in Life
6/30/25
I started to write a post yesterday, but there were some technical difficulties. By the time I got things straightened out, it was time to go to work.
This morning, I realized there was something that I forgot to include in my last post. Although I had not been posting here, I had decided to make some improvements in my writing as a career. So, I went back to school and received my certifications in journalism, copy-editing, and advanced copywriting.
While I love working as a DSP, it is a physically demanding job, and there have been days that I have had to cancel due to painful joints and inflammation (that will be a discussion for another time). The organization I work for has been outstanding in their support for employees taking time off when needed, but I hate letting the clients down. When I don’t show up, it means my clients go without services. But it does not help the clients if I cannot physically perform my job and keep them safe either.
So, while thinking about future possibilities, I realized that I won’t be able to perform my job indefinitely. I decided I want to work from home again as a writer. I will be making the transition slowly, making sure that there will be a qualified DSP to take my place before I leave.
In the meantime, I will continue working on my writing portfolio and working short-term side gigs.
Well, that’s all the time I have for today. To all the writers out there, have a blessed week, and keep up the good work, painting pictures with words!
– Amber
It’s Been A While
June 22, 2025
It’s been a long time since I last posted, and a lot has changed.
I started a new job, working as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Though it can be stressful at times, I love the job and the people I work with! I began with supported employment and day habilitation services, then moved to supported living services. I am now working in a group home, providing round-the-clock care for three individuals, where I work for 72 – 96 hour shifts per week. I am usually quite exhausted by the end of my shifts, and it doesn’t leave much time for writing. But I am trying to arrange a new schedule for writing, so please bear with me as I make this adjustment.
I also sold my cabin, made a temporary move to Virginia, which didn’t work out. So, I came back to Alaska and bought a place just outside of Talkeetna. I lost all of my cats, so it’s just me and my dog, Tulie, now.
Another major change has been accepting that I have C-PTSD. I am still learning about what that means, and finding ways to cope and live with it. It’s hard. Really hard sometimes. Especially since I’ve spent the majority of my life hiding it, ignoring it, and pretending that I’m fine. I won’t go into the details now, for there are far too many. But I reached the point in 2020 where all I could feel was numb. It’s ironic that more than a few people I have met in the DSP field also live with PTSD. I think that in some way, through helping others to live the best life possible, we find ways to help ourselves learn to live again, to find joy and purpose.
Since I don’t do well in opening up to others face-to-face about the darkness I feel inside, it was suggested that I use writing as a means for therapy. I’m only just getting started with that, and it’s difficult at best. Many times I sit down to write and the self-protecting mechanisms my brain has put in place throughout my life will cause my mind to go blank. But with concentration and a lot of effort, the thoughts come. And so do the feelings. Though the thoughts are not very organized, I fight through the tears to get the words down. Oftentimes, it leaves me exhausted and weak from stirring up memories that I would rather forget. But other times, it is a release, like a burden being lifted.
I don’t know where this journey will lead me, but I know that I can’t stay where I was, in a dark fog with no meaning, no purpose, no joy, and no life. I cannot erase the past traumas, and I can’t keep them hidden any longer. But by the grace of God, I will be more than a survivor. I will be a conqueror! I promise I will learn to live again, and I will do my best to help others along the way. I’m not sure exactly what that looks like just yet, but I continue to learn every day.
Maybe my life won’t ever be a perfect picture with a detailed plan of action. But maybe it doesn’t have to be. Maybe it’s in the little moments of each new day, each new breath, each experience, where real life is found.
My goal is to begin posting at least once a week for now. I hope you will forgive the random thoughts as I get back on track, and I will probably be re-arranging the site a bit (after I re-learn the technological parts…again). I welcome your thoughts and comments, so please feel free to share.
God bless, and have a great week!
– Amber
For christian: always loved, always remembered
Love, Joy, Happiness, Peace, Exuberance, Helpful, Kind, Giving, Friendly, Honest, Loyal, Adventurous, Imaginative, Playful, Fearless, Carefree, Faithful, and Determined.
These are only a few of the words that I can think of to describe you.
Eighteen years ago, you came into this world, and into my heart. And even though you are no longer here with me, you still hold my heart. You always will.
My arms can’t reach to heaven, to hold you. And my words won’t reach your ears. But I have no doubt that you can feel the love in my heart for you, and that will have to do.
You are always missed, always loved, and always remembered!
July 11, 2002 
January 1, 2016
As I was putting this photo album together, I remembered a song you dearly loved…
One of the greatest blessings of my life, “…I was loved by YOU”!
Happy 18th Birthday my love!
A Christmas Gift
Delayed, but not defeated…
So, I didn’t make the deadline for producing book #2 in the Between Heaven and Hell series. In fact, I’m not finished writing it yet. But I’m not giving up! The projected publication is set for the end of January, barring any further health issues.
I have learned that sometimes despite my best efforts, things don’t go according to my plans and schedule. But being delayed does not mean defeat.
Patience may be a virtue, but it’s hard waiting for it…
I have often told my friends when I’m feeling frustrated over having to wait for something, that it is apparent that God is still teaching me about patience. Perhaps that’s part of the reason I became a writer. I can’t think of any other job I’ve ever had (except being a mother) that has required so much patience.
Just as with being a mother, there are rewards and blessings with writing, even when there’s no monetary gain.
I won’t lie, the financial aspect of selling my work is important (and necessary to put food on the table). But it is the ability to connect with other hearts and minds that gives me the greatest joy. When someone tells me that my words stirred something in their soul, I forget about all of the stress and money, and how hard it is to produce and publish. It renews my energy and spirit of sharing.
In the Spirit of Giving…
So, in the spirit of sharing (and since I didn’t get #2 finished in time), I am offering the Kindle version of book #1, The Chosen Ones at a special 50% discount for a limited time, beginning today, December 15.
In addition, since Christmas is about celebrating the miracle of God’s Gift to us, I am also offering the Kindle version of my first book, Faith, Hope & Miracles for free for a limited time, beginning December 17. It is a true story of a tragedy turned into a miracle that touched the lives and hearts of many.
And if you’re looking for a light-hearted read, you might enjoy the funny-but-true Crazy Critters #1, a collection of short stories about the hilarious antics and quirks of my furry and feathered friends.
As per Amazon’s policies, I won’t be able to offer any further discounts for 3 months, so I hope you will take advantage of these offers while they are available. (Kindle books make great gifts too, especially when you’re short on time, like I always seem to be. All it takes is just a few clicks to order, and your work is done. Amazon will do the rest. You can even schedule the delivery date, up to a year in advance.)
Well, it’s time to get back to making the Christmas cookies and fudge, (and putting the decorations that the cats pulled down back up. They are giving me a lot of content for Crazy Critters #2!)
Don’t forget to take advantage of the discounts while they last, and thanks in advance for helping me to spread the word by sharing. Just click on the covers below.
May your hearts and homes be filled with love and joy! – Amber
The Ol’ Dirt Road
They say life is a highway. But I took the ol’ dirt road, and I’m glad I did.
Sure, it’s been full of bumps and potholes. There’s been plenty of mud-filled ruts, and even a few washouts along the way. And I’ve been stuck more than once.
But, oh, the views I’ve seen! And taking time for family and friends, making memories that have made this journey so sweet, would never have been possible on any highway.
I’ve realized that without the obstacles to slow me down and even stop me at times, I would have missed so much of the beauty along the way. So, yes, I’m glad I took the ol’ dirt road.
Even if you prefer the smoothness and speed of black-top highways, make sure to take a few dirt roads now and then. Appreciate the adventures and beauty they bring.
God bless. – Amber
World Kindness Day
Kindness is choice, and it is a lifestyle…
It is the practice or quality of being kind, considerate, or helpful, without expecting anything in return. It is a friendly behavior, showing compassion and mercy. Simply put, it is a state of being or lifestyle.
I was taught as a child that being kind was always the right thing to do. Back in those days (that seem so long ago), it was a common attribute of general society to be polite and considerate of others, and to be helpful.
It didn’t mean that I had to agree with everyone about everything. But even in differences of opinion, respect and civility could still be shown, and that is a kindness in itself.
Luke 6:31AMP says, “Treat others the same way you want them to treat you”. That was considered the Golden rule. Other phrases such as, “what goes around, comes around”, and “reap what one sows” also come to mind.
But it’s really not about being rewarded in return for an act of kindness.
I have lived in loneliness, darkness, even despair. And I have experienced first-hand the impact that one simple act of kindness can give to a broken heart. There was no demand, nothing asked in return for the hand of hope, a kind word, a smile, a simple gesture. But the life that was breathed back into my soul was and is, an unfathomable treasure.
I’ve also learned that a kindness doesn’t have to be directed at me specifically to have an impact on me. Think of the stories and videos going viral that tell of how someone’s actions made a difference in the life of another, like rescues of a puppy or kitten, or buying a car for someone in need. It may be on a grand scale, like donating a kidney, or may be in a simple small way, like sending cards to a little girl in the hospital. But it makes a difference in my heart when I hear of these acts.
The ripple effect…
Today is called World Kindness Day, which should really be every day.
As I flipped through the world news this morning, I couldn’t help but notice the anger and animosity being spewed in the headlines. I noticed that some of the people doing the loudest screaming actually do have good ideas and intentions. But while appealing to the emotions of anger will always gain attention, it also creates more division and hatred, which never leads to any lasting good.
I remember once, someone was yelling at me, demanding that I conform to their wishes. My response was, “If you want me to do something, ask or discuss it in a congenial manner, and I will most likely do it, even if I don’t particularly want to. But if you scream at me in a harsh or threatening manner, I most definitely will not go along with you”. Being forced to comply with something is simply a form of slavery.
On the other hand, soft words and leading by example can have a ripple effect that reaches far, creating change based on a desire of heart.
For example, when I was a firefighter back in the 90’s, we were working on mopping up a wildfire just off the Kenai River. During our lunchtime the first day, I decided to take a walk along the river to enjoy the view. I noticed there were a lot of fishing lines, beer bottles, and other types of garbage all along the riverbanks. So, I took out a plastic bag from my backpack and began picking up the debris. Soon, another firefighter came over and joined me in the clean-up. Within about 5 minutes, all 16 people on our crew had joined in the effort. We didn’t scream and yell at the tourists passing by, demanding that they join us. But several of them did join us, including one man that provided his truck to haul the garbage off to the dump, which he paid the fee for. No one asked us to do it, and we weren’t getting paid to do it. We didn’t stand around waving signs, pointing fingers, or blaming anyone. We just did it because we believed it needed doing, and even after our crew had to return to the fire, there were still people cleaning up along the river.
My small act by itself barely made a dent in the amount of garbage there. But the act had a ripple effect that did make a difference. It is also one of the things that friends of my son Christian remember so fondly about him. He was always stopping to pick up garbage wherever he went and jumping in to help wherever he could.
That is how kindness works. It grows inside your heart and moves on to influence the hearts of others, sometimes in ways that you never even know about.
“Kindness, like grain, increases by sowing”. – H.G. Bohn
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has”. – Margaret Meade
It all starts with a choice, to be kind, or not. What will you choose?
Love to all. Now go out and Make A Difference. – Amber
Dealing with Delays and Setbacks
The best plans…
“The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry. No matter how carefully a project is planned, something may still go wrong with it”. The saying is adapted from a line in “To a Mouse,” by Robert Burns, and it has been the story of my life for the past month.
After launching my book, The Chosen Ones, back in September, I announced that book #2 was scheduled to be released in early December. I knew I would be under pressure to write the book while still doing promotions for #1, but I was optimistic and felt sure that I could do it.
I am a planner, perhaps even a bit of a control-freak. I create a step-by-step blueprint of how I am going to achieve my goals, and then I endeavor to follow this plan each day until the task or project is completed.
However, life has a way of throwing a wrench into the most perfectly lined out plans.
When the unexpected happens…
In this past month, my dog Frodo, started having idiopathic epileptic seizures. He has had 4 to date, each of the grand mal (full-blown seizure) type. As of yet, I have been unable to detect any signs or warnings preceding an attack, though the last 2 occurred 12 hours apart and after a particularly stressful period. Afterwards, he becomes confused and unsettled, and clings to me like a shadow. My heart breaks, not being able to explain it to him, though I do my best to comfort and reassure him. The vet I talked to suggested using CBD oil and changing his diet to a raw natural one as the first course of treatment. If the seizures become worse or more frequent, then medications such as phenobarbital or potassium bromide may become necessary.
By his own nature, Frodo is rather protective of me and not exactly the friendliest dog. He is also somewhat stubborn in regard to obeying commands at this point, (something I am still working on), so I usually choose not to take him with me out in public. But since the seizures started, I don’t want to leave him alone. So, my self-imposed restrictions have prevented a major portion of my promotions, and in turn missed sales.
I have consoled myself of this setback with knowing that as my canine companion and friend, Frodo is worth doing what I have to in order to help him. I know there are those that would not agree with my sentiment here, and that is fine. It is just a part of who I am and will always be. We will work through this together.
Matters of the heart…
One of my closest friends described me as, “independent, stubborn, stoic, and determined”. For the most part, I consider these to be good character traits. I grew up with the mindset that, if something needs doing, I just do it. I don’t believe in putting my responsibilities off onto someone else, and I’ve never been great at asking for help when I need it. I have managed to improvise when necessary, finding creative ways of doing things on my own, instead of bothering others to do things for me.
However, with age (and pain), some wisdom has been gained.
A few years ago, I began having minor issues with chest pains and irregular heartbeat, though not enough to seek medical help. A combination of mistrust and fear of doctors tends to make me avoid them (no offense intended to the medical professionals out there). So, I waited.
Since then, the issues became more pronounced, and I realized there was something wrong. So, I finally faced the dragon and made an appointment.
With symptoms of pain in my chest, heart palpitations and a murmur, extreme fatigue, dizziness, and high blood pressure, the doctor ordered blood tests and an EKG. She then ordered an echocardiogram, an ultrasound of the heart.
Last Thursday I went to the cardiologist for the consultation of the results. I expected a 15 to 20 minute visit to discuss the results, and being told to lose weight and change my diet, and maybe some medication and a few other lifestyle changes.
Instead, I was told that I had apparently already had at least 1 heart attack, and there was damage to the wall between the chambers of my heart, and that I have aortic stenosis, a condition where the main valve that pushes the blood out through the body does not work properly. The doctor said that he also heard a sound in my neck that shouldn’t be there.
He said there may be some blockages in my heart, and he wanted to do a heart catheterization to get a better look, and that if there were blockages, he would insert stents or that open heart surgery may be necessary.
After agreeing to the procedure, I waited for my prescriptions and started thinking about preparations and plans, making sure my critters were taken care of, and getting my legal papers in order and such.
Past experience led me to believe it would be at least a week before the procedure would be scheduled. So, I was a bit alarmed when the doctor returned and said he had rearranged his schedule and would be performing the procedure the following morning.
Between the discussion, prescriptions, another EKG, and blood tests, it was 3 ½ hours before I was on my way home, scrambling to get everything taken care of, not exactly how I had planned to spend my day. But I stayed focused and accomplished what I needed to do.
The doctor’s 1st choice for the procedure was to go through my right wrist, saying that would be the easiest. I was wide awake throughout the process, as the sedatives had very little effect on me, so I was able to watch and ask questions. At one point, my heart had some palpitations which could be clearly heard on the monitor. The doctor said, “Wow, that’s weird”, to which I replied, “That’s not what the lady on the table wants to hear from the doc”. He proceeded to say, “Well, you’re off rhythm now and we’re trying to get a good beat going”, while snapping his fingers.
I like the fact that the doctor has a good sense of humor, as it put me more at ease during the ordeal, having a more calming effect than the sedative did.
At last, the news that there were no blockages found was welcomed, though now it means further tests to find the cause of pain and other symptoms.
What was not welcomed was the instructions of aftercare that stated I was not to use my right hand at all for at least a week and not being allowed to lift anything over 5 pounds or any strenuous activity.
Have you ever tried to open a cheese wrapper with only 1 hand? Try opening a can of soup, or lifting logs and putting them in the woodstove one-handed. Even simple things like brushing my hair or getting dressed proved to be impossible for me. And don’t get me started on opening those child-proof pill bottles! I have a hard time with those using both hands.
I honestly tried very hard to follow the doctor’s instructions, but after 1 day, I had to cheat, at least a little. I found out that I am very right-handed, with little coordination in my left hand, plus my left shoulder is a bit out of whack and moving it is painful most of the time.
I did watch closely for any signs of bleeding or unusual pain and swelling, and I’m happy to report there have been none. The bruising and swelling have gone down, and the throbbing has almost stopped. I am taking it a bit easier and resting as much as I can, though it is a battle.
I have a follow-up appointment scheduled later this week which I’m not looking forward to, as I’m sure the doctor will probably fuss about me using my hand. But in all fairness, if I had been warned beforehand of the details of aftercare, I would have asked that he use an alternate means of access instead of my right wrist.
Some things I’ve learned…
“Doesn’t follow directions well” will probably be my epitaph, although I am earnestly trying to do better. But it’s not easy being told I can’t do something, especially when it’s something I’ve been doing for years, and even more so when it’s an essential part of living.
But because of the events of this past week, it’s made me take a closer look at some of the things I have been neglecting or taking for granted.
What stands out the most to me stemmed from the fact that I had so little time to let anyone know what was going on. I managed to call a few people, to make arrangements for my animals and house, but there were several calls that I didn’t get to make.
You hear about regrets people have of not sharing their thoughts and feelings when someone close to them dies. But seldom do we think about our own death and leaving things unsaid to those we leave behind.
That is what was on my mind going into the hospital. I questioned whether or not my loved ones really knew how precious they are to me, but at that point, I could only hope they did. I had managed to write a couple of short letters to my son and my sister, just in case, but the words I put on paper were so very inadequate.
I prayed hard that morning, that I would be given more time to share with my loved ones, to make sure they know how much I love them and appreciate them. And that prayer was answered.
I realized that I have been pushing so hard to succeed in my writing career and remodeling my home, and so many other little details, that I had been neglecting my most valuable possession…my heart. Not just the blood pump, but the spiritual one, the one that feeds my relationships.
I am resolved in taking better care of both.
So, while my writing is still important to me, and there are other aspects that have to be dealt with, my family and friends are my priority above all else, except God. He must remain #1 in my life, and living by His commandment to love others is exactly what I will be focusing my time and attention on.
At this point, not knowing how things will work out with more tests to find out what’s going on with my heart, I don’t know if I can give a deadline for when I will be able to release book #2. I am already behind the original schedule. But I will continue to work on it and give updates and perhaps excerpts as I can. If God be willing, I could still have it ready in time for Christmas, though I don’t want to make that a promise yet.
I apologize for the inconsistency in posting lately, and I hope you can understand. It was not intentional.
I will be changing my posting to Wednesdays only for a while, in order to allow more time in other matters.
Please bear with me, as I go through these changes. It was difficult hearing that I’ve already had a heart attack and didn’t know it. I guess I thought it would hurt more, or maybe I’ve just been too stoic and stubborn to pay attention. But I think I would like to stick around a bit longer to enjoy the folks (and critters) that I love so much.
As always, I appreciate your comments, and especially your prayers.
Love to all. – Amber
Avoiding Division on Social Media
I’d like to share an article written by my friend, Les Ey, regarding the rampant division, anger, and animosity being incited across social media and various news outlets.
Avoiding Division on Social Media by Les Ey
Since the rise of the internet and social medial, the political division has increased, and sadly, that is affecting Christians. Emotions are running high. Fear and anger are the dominant emotions instead of grace, forgiveness, and love. So how did it come to this?
One crucial factor is that social media companies and traditional news outlets are in the businesses of maximizing profit. In an interview, NBC spoke with three individuals that were involved with Tech giants.
From NBC nightly news,
“… and to keep them engaged, these three argue, Facebook has a financial incentive not to limit ads or misinformation as long as it’s getting clicks.” 1
Sandy Parakilas, a former Facebook manager, said,
“The company just continuously prioritized user growth and making money over protecting users.” 1
Roger McNamee, an early Facebook investor, and mentor to Mark Zuckerberg said,
“Making you angry, making you afraid, is really good for Facebook’s business …” 1
Facebook’s response was to the effect that they have tried to clamp down on fake news and misleading ads. To be fair, Facebook has prioritized posts from friends and family, but the point remains that making people angry or afraid results in more clicks, and that fact is not lost on news agencies.
News agencies needed to change to compete with social media. Clickbait and hot button news are what attracts readers, so the quality of fact-checking has suffered. News outlets aim to present content that suits the demographics of their readers/viewers, so they are becoming increasingly biased.
Jon McCray (Whaddo You Meme) recently posted a video on his YouTube channel where he talked about violence and division. 2
He talks about
“… a psychological condition called splitting …” and about how “social media and news outlets are designed to cater to the problem … and splitting is where you see someone or some group as all bad or all good without a middle ground.” 2
He makes the point that the more you talk to people you disagree with the more you can see them as humans who are just like you. So, it is easy to demonize people you don’t engage with and justify hurting them, whether that be verbally or physically.
McCray quotes Martin Luther King Jr.,
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” 2
So, what should our response be? McCray said, “So, as Christ says, love one another and instead of hating your enemies, pray for them.” 2 and I totally agree. What I have started to do is to be more selective about what media I spend most of my time reading or listening to. For example, Christian news services tend to be less inflammatory than mainstream media. But even alternate news organizations can be divisive. I unsubscribed from a ministry focused on a single issue that I passionately agree with because of their tone. It was temping for me to hate individuals that they were writing about. I still get media reports on that issue from other sources, but those sources are more inclined to encourage respectful dialog and prayer. I’m not saying that we should not engage politically, far from it, we should stand up for important issues but do so with love and respect instead of hate, anger, and fear. It is essential to realize that both sides of politics have room for improvement. We shouldn’t let politics divide us. Both sides like to press our buttons because it motivates people to vote. Vote but don’t hate. Remember who our real enemy is.
Eph 6:12 “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms”. NIV
Be respectful
Prov 15:1 “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger”. NIV
Abby Johnson (whose story is told in the movie Unplanned) is just one example of what prayer, love, and respect can do. She was a Planned Parenthood director, but some Christians offered to be there for her without judging her. Is the person that we are reading about or interacting with potentially an Abby Johnson? Will we speak life or be manipulated by anger and fear?
For more articles, interviews, and short stories by Les Ey, visit his website at https://les-ey.website/
References
[1] NBC, Jan 17, 2018, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvW5aRZSbgQ viewed on Oct 10, 2019
[2] McCray, J, Oct 1, 2019, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gexB2p13O5k viewed on Oct 10, 2019
NIV (New International Version) Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 Biblica
Thank you, Les, for sharing with us today!
A personal note…
In closing, let me share a secret I learned when I first began working in internet marketing: if you can make a connection to the strongest emotions of your target audience, you can manipulate their response and behavior. (Manipulate: to influence, control, direct, guide, conduct, negotiate, exploit, steer, maneuver, alter, distort, change. To control to one’s own advantage by artful or indirect means.)
Let that really sink in.
Of course, in marketing, this was intended to increase sales of whatever product or service you are pitching.
But it has also become a mainstream tactic in social and news media, as well as politics and religion, because emotions such as anger, hatred, and fear are powerful motivators that will stir us to action. However, love is also a strong emotion, as well as an action in itself.
I’d like to offer some food for thought today…
One of the most important aspects of the Christian life is to love one another. Are we really exemplifying that love with our words and actions…even when we disagree with another’s view or opinion?
#MakeADifference #StopTheHate #LoveOneAnother
Amber Leggette-Aldrich 