Encouraging Thoughts is a collection of short stories, essays, and articles that were written to strengthen and challenge the reader to a deeper walk with Christ.
I write about my struggles, doubts, and fears and how God helps me overcome. I want you to see how I interact with God. I try to make the Christian experience real and tangible.
I write about the beach, a place where I feel the closest to the Lord. I share with you how God speaks to me through my surroundings.
If you are an animal lover you'll enjoy the stories about the animals in my life. I believe you'll be touched by these personal and true experiences.
Some of the stories come from working in the public schools. So many people think that this generation is out of touch with God, but I see that there are many kids who not only know their creator but want to honor him.
One section of my book deals with the news events from the early 90's. My most powerful piece was written after the Oklahoma City bombing. It could have been written after any major tragedy, especially 9/11.
I find things in nature very inspiring and there is a section in my book about nature. I believe God is all around us revealing His beauty and creativity, but we are often too busy to notice.
I wrote about my parents' divorce from my perspective as an adult child. I am painfully honest about what I went through and how I felt. I have given this section of my book to many students who were struggling with their parents' split and they have been grateful for the help and comfort it offered.
Throughout my writing career I think I have written many columns about holidays. I look for a unique perspective and hope to discover encouraging insights for each one. My child-like heart comes out at the holidays and I enjoy writing about them each year.
Finally, I end the book with a few special pieces, some of which are not necessarily inspiring. They were pieces I wrote and never published in another format. I included them in the book because I liked them and I thought they were fun. The inspirational ones at the end were my favorites, pieces that I promise will touch your heart.
