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Sunday, September 28, 2025

The story of how some use their skills to help others heal from loss from a programmer using Ai to do a tribute song to Charlie Kirk to a graphic artist using her skills to help her her friend honor Charlie Kirk with a artistically rendered coffee cup portrait.

Millions of people were profoundly effected by Charlie Kirk's assassination. Lady Gaga was so overcome when she heard the news that she wrote a tribute song honoring Charlie.

Sarah, a graphic designer used her skills to artistically render a tribute picture of Charlie for the coffee cups at her friends coffee shop.

I think all of us can agree that no man should be killed for expressing his hope for America and sharing hope to a younger generation looking for a hero to be inspired from.

Charlie Kirk opened up the eyes of the whole world. The conservative movement has been reborn because the younger generation have woken up.

The worn leather of the steering wheel felt familiar under Sarah's grip. She adjusted the rearview mirror, catching a glimpse of her determined eyes. Beside her, the empty passenger seat was a silent testament to her solo mission. Sarah, a graphic designer with an unexpected passion for political commentary, had spent weeks crafting the perfect decal. It wasn't just a sticker; it was a declaration. She wanted to honor Charlie Kirk and his "We Are Charlie Kirk" conservative movement. The vinyl, a deep, resonant blue, bore the stylized logo she’d designed, a bold statement that felt like a rallying cry. She imagined the impact it would have, a quiet but potent symbol of shared values spreading across the nation, one car at a time.

Her destination was a small, unassuming diner on the outskirts of town, a place known for its surprisingly strong coffee and its unassuming clientele. It was here, amidst the clatter of plates and the murmur of conversations, that she’d arranged to meet Mark, a local small business owner who’d echoed her sentiments online. Mark, a staunch believer in fiscal responsibility and individual liberty, saw the "We Are Charlie Kirk" movement as a vital force for positive change. He’d offered his modest garage for Sarah to set up a small station, a place where like-minded individuals could pick up the decals and perhaps share their own stories of engagement. Sarah pulled into the parking lot, the anticipation a tangible hum in the air. This was more than just spreading a message; it was about building community, brick by brick, decal by decal.

As Sarah stepped out, a wave of quiet recognition passed through the few early arrivals. Mark, recognizable by the handshake he’d described, greeted her with a warm smile. He gestured towards a small table laden with the blue decals, each one a miniature banner of belief. Sarah felt a surge of pride. This was it – the beginning of something. The "We Are Charlie Kirk" movement wasn't just a catchy phrase; it was a growing network, individuals like her and Mark, connecting, sharing, and ultimately, honoring the ideals they held dear, one conversation and one decal at a time, a quiet revolution unfolding in the heartland.

Saturday, September 27, 2025

Through Jesus all things are possible.

There is power in Jesus name.

In a small town nestled between rolling hills and winding rivers, lives a woman named Laurie whose life was once overshadowed by despair. For years, she battled inner demons—loss, loneliness, and a sense that she was unworthy of happiness. But everything changed on a Sunday morning when she heard a simple message: that Jesus Christ’s love is greater than any pain, that His sacrifice offers forgiveness and new beginnings.

Laurie remembers that day vividly. As she listened to the pastor speak about grace and redemption, something stirred deep within her. She felt a warmth, a gentle reassurance that she was not alone, and that her life could be transformed. She decided to accept Jesus as her savior, opening her heart to His love.

From that moment, miracles began to unfold. Laurie found her burdens lifted—her heart filled with peace she had never known. She reconciled relationships long torn apart, forgiving those who had hurt her and receiving forgiveness in return. Her health improved as anxiety and despair melted away, replaced by hope and purpose.

Over time, Laurie became a shining example in her community. She started a support group for those struggling with addiction and grief, sharing her story of faith and healing. Her kindness and unwavering faith inspired others to seek the same hope and renewal she had found.

The miracles flowing from knowing Jesus are countless—healing broken hearts, restoring hope in despair, inspiring acts of kindness, and transforming lives from the inside out. For Laurie and many others, the gift of knowing Christ as their savior isn’t just a story of faith; it’s a living testimony that even the most lost can find light, love, and a new beginning through Jesus Christ.

Thursday, September 25, 2025

Erika Kirk gave a powerful speech that highlights the work that Charlie Kirk started and his team will continue through Turning Point USA

28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[i] have been called according to his purpose.

**Remembering Charlie Kirk: A Celebration of Faith and Resilience**Perspective by Erika Kirk

On a solemn yet uplifting afternoon at State Farm Stadium, friends, family, and supporters gathered to honor the life of Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, who tragically lost his life in an act of violence rooted in ideological differences. As the crowd filled the stadium, a palpable sense of grief mingled with an overwhelming spirit of community and hope.

His wife, Erika Kirk, stood before the audience with a strength that was both inspiring and heart-wrenching. In her remarks, Erika shared a heartfelt Christian testimony that resonated deeply with all who were present. “Though my heart is heavy with sorrow, I am reminded of the words in Romans 8:28: ‘And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose,’” she began, her voice steady yet filled with emotion.

Erika spoke of Charlie not just as a political figure but as a devoted husband, passionate advocate, and loving friend. “Charlie was a man of deep convictions who stood firmly for what he believed in,” she remembered. “But he was also a man who believed in the power of love, forgiveness, and faith.” Her words painted a picture of a life dedicated to service and a commitment to making the world a better place through the principles of liberty and justice.

As she continued, Erika encouraged those in attendance—and those watching from afar—to find their strength in faith, especially in these challenging times. “We must not allow fear or anger to consume us. Instead, let us turn our hearts to God, who is our refuge and strength,” she urged. “In moments of hardship, we have a choice: we can choose bitterness, or we can choose grace. Let us choose grace.”

The crowd listened intently as Erika reminded everyone that true love and compassion are the answers to divisiveness. Her message was clear: while the loss of Charlie is immeasurable, his legacy of strength, kindness, and conviction will continue to inspire and uplift hearts. “Together, let’s walk the path of love, just as Charlie did,” she said, encouraging everyone to embody the very values Charlie championed.

As the memorial service concluded, a sense of unity prevailed. People from all walks of life gathered not just to mourn a fallen leader but to commit themselves to fostering dialogue and understanding. In her compassionate and encouraging manner, Erika turned a moment of immense sorrow into a call for renewal—one filled with hope, faith, and love.

Charlie Kirk may no longer be with us in body, but his spirit lives on through the lives he touched and the values he espoused. May we honor his memory by embracing the very ideals of compassion and understanding that he stood for, and may we always remember to turn to God in both times of trial and triumph.

Wednesday, September 24, 2025

The Silent echoes: navigating isolation and lonliness after loss

**Title: The Silent Echoes: Navigating Isolation and Loneliness After Loss**

Grief can be a shrouded path, marked by the profound ache of loss and often, the heavy blanket of isolation that settles in. It is a journey many undertake alone, even when surrounded by loving friends and family. The genuine connections we once enjoyed can feel distant, leading us to a landscape of loneliness that is hard to navigate.

Let me share the story of Emma, a light-hearted woman in her thirties who was a close friend to many. She was known for her infectious laughter, often filling rooms with vibrant conversations. But when she lost her father, a pivotal figure in her life, the world began to dim around her. The first few weeks were a whirlwind—offering condolences, attending the memorial service, and sharing memories. However, once the initial shock faded, so did the presence of her friends.

In the ensuing months, Emma found herself craving human connection, yet feeling increasingly isolated. Phone calls that once felt effortless turned into daunting tasks, and she avoided gatherings, fearing the eyes of those who might ask her how she was coping. Each “How are you?” that she faced felt like a cruel reminder of her loss, and so Emma retreated into her own thoughts, alone with her grief.

In society, we often celebrate the memories of those we’ve lost through shared stories. However, for Emma, this celebration became a painful reminder of the absence that was now palpable in her life. The first birthday without her father passed in silence, devoid of the usual cake and laughter. Friends sent messages of support and love, but the physical presence that had once brought comfort was no longer there, and Emma felt more disconnected than ever.

Over time, the loneliness deepened. Long evenings spent staring at the walls, scrolling through social media feeds filled with smiles and milestones, fed the silence. Emma, a usually social butterfly, now found herself wrapped in a cocoon of sorrow, struggling against the darkness that seemed to close in.

As the months turned into a year, however, something began to shift. Emma stumbled upon a grief support group, a safe space where others shared experiences that resonated with her own. Here, she discovered that she was not alone in her feelings of isolation. Other members voiced similar struggles, revealing their own battles with solitude after loss. They laughed through tears, swapped stories of their loved ones, and slowly, Emma began to feel the weight of her loneliness lift.

The power of connection became evident as Emma forged new relationships with those who understood her pain. The laughter she once shared with her father was now echoed among her newfound friends, reminding her that while loss is a formidable foe, love endures beyond the final farewell.

Isolation following a loss can feel insurmountable, yet it’s crucial for those grieving to remember that reaching out is a sign of strength. Emotional loneliness can cloud the brightest days, but it’s often the shared stories of others who travel similar paths that can light our way.

If you find yourself in the depths of grief, consider opening up. Join community groups, or seek help from a therapist. Your story resonates with others, and in the telling, you may find a connection that helps bridge the chasm of loneliness.

Emma’s journey continues, filled with both sorrow and joy as she learns to navigate life without her father. She carries him in her heart, but she has also begun to embrace the love of others around her. In sharing her narrative, she not only honors her father’s memory but also transforms her loneliness into a tapestry of shared experiences.

Remember, in the face of grief, while the journey may be deeply individual, you never have to walk it alone. There is strength in vulnerability, and in reaching out, we can find hope, healing, and connections that make the journey a little less lonely.

When Grief echoes: The silent weight of lonliness and Isolation.

Title: When Grief Echoes: The Silent Weight of Loneliness and Isolation Grief doesn’t knock. It barges in—uninvited, unrelenting, and often misunderstood. While most people associate grief with sadness, its deeper, quieter companions—loneliness and isolation—can linger long after the tears have dried and the casseroles stop arriving.

🕯️ The Invisible Aftershock

When someone we love dies, the world doesn’t just feel emptier—it becomes quieter in ways that are hard to explain. The phone calls stop. The routines unravel. The person who once filled a space in our lives is gone, and with them, the social scaffolding that held us up may collapse too.

Grief can make even the most familiar places feel foreign. A favorite coffee shop becomes a minefield of memories. A family gathering feels incomplete. And slowly, the grieving person may begin to withdraw—not because they want to be alone, but because being around others can feel like pretending.

💬 Why People Pull Away

Isolation during grief isn’t always a choice. It’s often a reaction. Many grieving individuals report feeling like they’re “too much” for others—too sad, too quiet, too broken. Friends may not know what to say, so they say nothing. Invitations dwindle. Conversations shift. And the grieving person, already navigating emotional chaos, may start to believe they’re better off alone.

This self-imposed solitude can become a cycle: grief leads to isolation, which deepens the loneliness, which intensifies the grief.

🌧️ Loneliness Isn’t Just Being Alone

Loneliness during grief is not about the absence of people—it’s about the absence of connection. You can be surrounded by others and still feel profoundly alone if no one truly understands your pain. That’s why platitudes like “they’re in a better place” or “time heals all wounds” often fall flat. What grieving people need isn’t advice—it’s presence.

🧠 The Mental Toll

Research shows that prolonged loneliness can have serious effects on mental and physical health. It’s linked to depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and even weakened immune function. For those grieving, these risks are compounded. The emotional weight of loss, combined with the absence of meaningful support, can make healing feel impossible.

🌱 Finding Light in the Fog

So how do we break the cycle? It starts with acknowledgment. Grief is not a timeline—it’s a terrain. And loneliness is a natural part of that landscape. But it doesn’t have to be permanent.

Support groups, therapy, and even online communities can offer lifelines. Sometimes, just hearing “me too” from someone who’s been there can be enough to crack open the door to connection. Small rituals—writing letters to the deceased, lighting a candle, going for a walk—can also help rebuild a sense of self and routine.

And for those on the outside looking in: reach out. Not with solutions, but with sincerity. A simple “I’m thinking of you” or “I’m here if you want to talk” can be a balm to someone drowning in silence.

💖 A Shared Humanity

Grief is universal, yet deeply personal. Its impact on loneliness and isolation reminds us how much we need each other—not just in joy, but in sorrow. If we can learn to sit with someone in their pain, without rushing to fix it, we offer something rare and healing: companionship in the dark.

Because sometimes, the most powerful thing we can say is simply, “You’re not alone.”

Friday, September 12, 2025

Do you know the Jesus that Charlie Kirk new/

John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me

This week has been particularly challenging for many of us as we learned about the assassination of Charlie Kirk during a speaking Q & A event on a college campus. Charlie was deeply committed to using his faith to challenge college students to think for themselves.

He held a firm belief that there are only two genders, male and female, as described in the Bible's book of Genesis. Charlie recognized that his life could be at risk at any of these rallies, yet he attended them with the hope that people would see Jesus in him, helping them to understand that the opposing viewpoint was not the correct one. Indeed, he took necessary precautions, such as wearing body armor to protect himself from any potential gunfire.

He was deeply troubled by the way public schools were influencing our children to believe they could identify as any gender they chose. His heart was heavy as he witnessed the consequences of transgender ideology, which he viewed as something that could render young children lifelong patients.

He undoubtedly spoke to individuals who recognized the harm inflicted by the medical community, which had sold them a false promise that ultimately left them no closer to being the opposite sex than someone wishing to become a sports car.

If only they had known Jesus as he did. If only Jesus could reach out to those students to remind them that they were fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God.

He was certainly aware that our public school systems are failing children, as evidenced by declining achievement scores, seemingly more focused on ideology than on helping students achieve beyond mere 'average'.

If only they had known Jesus as Charlie knew Him.

Charlie Kirk possessed the courage to speak the truth because he understood that if his life were to end tragically, he would be welcomed into the presence of Jesus and spend eternity in heaven.

Charlie recognized that this world was not his ultimate home.

Do you know the Jesus that Charlie Kirk knew? Here

are some verses that may guide you to Jesus.

In John 14:6, "Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'"

In John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life"

Head knowledge is not enough to earn everlasting life. You must receive Christ in your heart by first admitting you are a sinner and fall short of God's standard of perfection.Then, you must confess that Jesus is the only way to eternal life.

Finally, you must humbly come before the Lord and offer up your prayer.

Dear Jesus, I know that I'm a sinner and fall short of God's standard of perfection. I now understand that you died on the cross for all of my sin's and you alone will earn my salvation. I ask you to come into my heart. Thank you Lord for your gift of everlasting life.

If you said that prayer you can be assured that when your purpose on earth has been fulfilled you will see Jesus in all his glory, much like Charlie Kirk is experiencing right now in heaven.

On a final note, your life continues until your God calls you home. Until then, God has some exciting things for you on this journey.

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

More than just sadness: The Ripple effect of Unprocessed Grief

More Than Just Sadness: The Ripple Effect of Unprocessed Grief

Grief is a universal human experience. It's the natural, often overwhelming, response to loss – whether that's the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, the loss of a job, a major life transition, or even the loss of a dream. We tend to associate grief primarily with sadness, tears, and a period of withdrawal.

But what happens when grief isn't given the space, time, or tools it needs to run its course? What if it gets stuck, denied, or suppressed? The answer, often, is a cascade of "secondary conditions" that can profoundly impact our physical, mental, and emotional well-being, sometimes long after the initial loss occurred.

When Grief Goes Underground: What is "Unprocessed Grief"? Unprocessed grief isn't about "getting over" a loss – because some losses are never truly "gotten over." Instead, it's about the healthy integration of that loss into your life. When grief is unprocessed, it can manifest as:

Avoidance: Actively trying not to think or feel about the loss.

Numbness: A persistent inability to feel emotions deeply.

Getting Stuck: Remaining in one stage of grief for an extended period, unable to move forward.

Societal Pressure: Feeling compelled to "be strong" or "move on" before you're ready.

When grief doesn't find a healthy outlet, it doesn't disappear. It simply goes underground, often emerging in unexpected and damaging ways.

The Ripple Effect: Secondary Conditions of Unprocessed Grief The body and mind are intricately connected. What we don't process emotionally, our physical and mental health often bear the brunt of.

1. Physical Manifestations: Our Bodies Keep the Score Persistent emotional stress from unresolved grief can wreak havoc on your physical health:

Chronic Fatigue: A pervasive sense of exhaustion, even after adequate sleep.

Compromised Immune System: Frequent colds, infections, and a general feeling of being run down.

Digestive Issues: Stomach aches, IBS, nausea, or changes in appetite.

Increased Aches & Pains: Headaches, muscle tension, back pain, or the exacerbation of existing chronic conditions.

Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, nightmares, or restless sleep.

Heart Issues: Studies have linked intense grief, especially after spousal loss, to an increased risk of heart problems.

2. Mental & Emotional Toll: The Mind Becomes a Battlefield

The mental and emotional landscape can become turbulent without healthy grief processing:

Anxiety & Panic Attacks: A persistent sense of dread, worry, or sudden, intense episodes of fear.

Depression: Prolonged sadness, loss of interest in activities, hopelessness, and even suicidal ideation.

Irritability & Anger: Snapping at loved ones, feeling easily frustrated, or experiencing unexplained rage.

Numbness & Apathy: A feeling of detachment from life, people, and even one's own self.

Substance Abuse: Turning to alcohol, drugs, or other addictive behaviors to self-medicate or escape the pain.

Difficulty Concentrating: Brain fog, poor memory, and an inability to focus on tasks.

Trust Issues: Becoming cynical, withdrawn, or struggling to form new, healthy attachments.

Existential Crisis: Questioning life's meaning, purpose, or spiritual beliefs.

3. Relational & Social Impact: Isolation and Strain

(P)Unprocessed grief often impacts our connections with others:

Social Withdrawal: Retreating from friends, family, and activities once enjoyed. Strained Relationships: Lashing out at loved ones, difficulty communicating needs, or pushing people away.

Codependency: Becoming overly reliant on others to fill the emotional void.(P) Difficulty Forming New Connections: Fear of future loss can prevent opening up to new people.

Why Do We Get Stuck? Several factors contribute to unprocessed grief:

Societal Expectations: The pressure to "move on" quickly.

Lack of Support: Not having a safe space or people to talk to.

Fear of Pain: Believing it's easier to avoid the intense emotions.

Previous Trauma: Past unresolved experiences can complicate current grief.

Complicated Loss: Ambiguous losses (e.g., a missing person, a loved one with dementia), or losses involving trauma or violence.

Finding Your Way Through: Paths to Healing

Acknowledging that you might be experiencing secondary conditions due to unprocessed grief is the crucial first step. Healing is possible, and you don't have to navigate it alone.

Acknowledge Your Grief: Give yourself permission to feel what you feel, without judgment.

Talk About It: Share your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or support group.

Seek Professional Help: A therapist specializing in grief and loss can provide tools, strategies, and a safe space to process your emotions. This is especially helpful if you're experiencing severe secondary conditions.

Practice Self-Care: Prioritize sleep, nutrition, gentle exercise, and activities that bring you comfort and peace.

Be Patient with Yourself: Grief is not linear, and healing takes time. There will be good days and bad days.

Find Meaning: Over time, some people find solace in honoring their loss through rituals, memorials, or by engaging in activities that reflect the values of what they've lost.

If you recognize any of these patterns in your own life or the life of someone you care about, please know that help is available. Unprocessed grief doesn't have to be a life sentence. By leaning into the discomfort and seeking support, you can begin the journey towards healing and reclaiming your well-being.

If you are struggling with unresolved grief or any of the secondary conditions mentioned, please reach out to a mental health professional or a grief support organization in your area. You are not alone. One organization I would recommend is Https://www.griefshare.org