Rabbit Trails and Stepping Stones

I don’t like surprises.  When I embark on a journey or engage in anything new, I like to know what to expect and the best ways to navigate what lies ahead; a game plan.  Jeff Goins’ new ebook “You Are a Writer” is just that.  Goins outlines the necessary components for writing success with the passion and fineness of a winning coach, writing from the heart.  He writes because he is a writer, but he leaves no doubt that he genuinely cares about the success of his readers.  He provides forthright instruction: What to expect, the best offensive strategies, and the best defensive strategies.  He is crystal clear on the point that success is not for the faint of heart, but like the locker room inspirations any successful coach might deliver before sending their team to the court, field, or pitch , this book offers hope and purpose to any one who is willing to call themselves a writer.

“…who are you? A writer, if you’ll believe it. I hope you do, because we need your voice. We need your message.” – Jeff Goins

To purchase “You Are a Writer” click the link on the Amazon book carousel to the right, or the link in the paragraph above.

Jeff is also the author of one of my favorite blogs at GoinsWriter.com.

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Photo by Lindsey Williams

There is something wonderful and awe inspiring about water, not the least of which is its life sustaining necessity.  I’m amazed by its vast array of characteristics, contrasts, displays, and effects.  Water soothes.  Water cools a feverish brow. It washes and is refreshing to the touch.  A warm bath or shower relaxes.  The sound of water is soothing whether the trickle of a fountain or brook, the lapping of waves at the edge of a lake or ocean, or the steady rhythm of rain drops on a roof or falling through the branches of a forest.  Oceans and waterfalls reflect color and light, captivate the senses, and stir the soul.  There is depth.  There is power.  There is mystery.  Even in the tranquility of still waters, one can find a sense of peace and rest.

Although I chose to use the above picture in my blog header, it really doesn’t have much to do with rabbit trails or stepping stones; at least not directly.  I chose it primarily because it is one of my favorite photos, taken by a gifted friend.  I am drawn to this picture, because not only is it refreshingly beautiful, but it reminds me of the “living water” that Jesus offered to the Samaritan woman he met at a well one day.  The account is in the book of John and is one of my favorite Bible stories.  Jesus showed respect, kindness, and compassion to her, fully knowing all the dirt of her life.   None of it mattered, but she did.  He explained to her that he could offer her living water that would well up into a spring and never run dry.  He was talking about Life.  Redemption.  Eternity.  He could offer those things only because, as he revealed to her, he is the Messiah.

Lady in the Water

To this woman, an outcast, he was personal, intimate, forgiving; ultimately, irresistible.   Her life and the lives of those in her village would be changed forever.  While I don’t believe Jesus can be summed up in a limited comparison to water, I find it fascinating that he described himself in this way.  He certainly captures its essence.  Life giving, restorative, soothing, powerful, and breathtakingly beautiful.  All things desperately needed by those who wander “rabbit trails” or hope to find the stepping stones that lead back to the path they are destined for.

You can find more of Lindsey William’s photos on her Facebook page.

To read about how you can support Charity: Water, click here.

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