Found

In the gospels you will find the parable of the lost sheep. Jesus told this parable to the Pharisees after they criticized him for befriending sinners. Jesus spoke of one sheep that went astray from the herd. This sheep was alone, defenseless, and in danger. The Good Shepherd left his 99 sheep to find the … Continue reading »

Bloom

I once read, “Sometimes when you are in a dark place and you think you have been buried alive, look again, you have been planted in rich soil.” We often pray to God to change our situation when I believe God is using our situation to change us. God loves you today and has a … Continue reading »

Hope as an Anchor for the Soul

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, Hebrews 6:19. There are three elements to hope. First, hope anticipates change and fills the souls with anticipation. Secondly, hope is assertive and meets pain head-on. Hope requires active involvement such as prayer. Lastly, hope … Continue reading »

Shine

Scholar Brene Brown writes, “Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.” The closer we become toward who we are meant to be, the brighter we will shine. We will prosper once we realize that the fire insides us burns brighter than any darkness … Continue reading »

Let Go

Last week at the Justice Center AFAP brough the arts to women inmates. Our message was “Let go.” Let go. One of the most courageous decisions that you can make is letting go of what is hurting your heart and soul. God knows who and what belongs in your life. Trust and let go. Do … Continue reading »

Knit One, Purl One

My many thanks to Miss Jackie who taught 14 women to knit this evening. She is a talented teacher with the gift of making others feel smart and capable.    

Almost Out of Gas

I did not have a lesson planned for the night. I had a long day where nothing seemed to go my way. I was going to blow off going to the shelter. I was tired, almost out of gasoline, and had no idea what activity I would bring the women. But there was something that … Continue reading »

Jars of Glitter

Last night, along with white canvasses, half empty tubes of paint and tired brushes, I brought glitter for the women to work with. “What should we do with it?” they asked. “Anything” I said. They smiled crooked smiles and laughed out loud, looking at one another. At first they were not quite sure what to … Continue reading »

A day in the life of ART FOR ALL PEOPLE

I leave my house with art supplies around 6:30 p.m. and drive to the homeless shelter.  When I arrive the woman at the desk knows why I am there and buzzes the door open. I walk up the steps through the TV room where women curse at one another over what program to watch. I … Continue reading »