More than ever I’m noticing the power of words during these unprecedented times where we are hunkering down at home, but connecting online. Hearing and seeing stories of inspiration are uplifting, andI believe in the power of blessing that can actually shift the atmosphere from fear to hope. I was one of those people who didn't run out to shop and found the toilet paper was totally gone, but what I found at the store were really helpful people. It is amazing how kindness transforms the atmosphere and brings peace and hope. I had a number of great and grateful conversations - even if my household may need to get creative with what to use for toilet paper.

The people I've talked with and stories I’m reading on social media are encouraging and empowering. There are also the opposite harsh, judgmental messages. In art terms, they provide contrast, but also bring sadness. I'm not denying or minimizing the difficulties we are facing in the world, but I believe we have power and what we say actually can create good or ill in the spirit realm. 

Mr. Rogers comes to mind. I love his quotes, like when he saw something that frightened him or made him sad about the world, his mother would tell him to "always look for the helpers" when a catastrophe occurred.

"There will always be helpers," he said,citing medical workers and otherswho come in to a troubled situation."Because if you look for the helpers,you'll know there's hope."

After some interactions this week, I am moreconfident and resolved than ever to seek to be a person of blessing. “Bless and curse not.” This time of quarantine is a good time to reflect on what’s important and be thankful.For me, it is also a time to cull my social media of negativity. My time is better spent elsewhere with like-hearted people, developing meaningful relationships. Today I am choosing to look for the good, go for a walk with a friend, connect with family, and count my blessings.

Making Art with Meaning - An Acrostic Poem

In our Living Your Word of the Year facebook group, a prompt each week is posted to inspire living out a word of the year. This week’s prompt is to write an acrostic poem of your Word (where each of the letters of your Word begin a relevant word or phrase)

My word is ‘Spirit’ and my acrostic poem reflects my desire to live out my word:

This specific passage of Scripture has been my focus for the past few weeks. It heavily influenced my acrostic poem, which came to me in the night last week.

"I pray that according to the riches of his glory,
and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith,
as you are being rooted and grounded in love.
I pray that you may have the power to comprehend with all the saints,
what is the breadth and length and height and depth,
and to know the love of Christ that surpasses all the fullness of God.
Now to him who by the power at work within us
is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine,
to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus
to all generations, forever and ever.Amen."

~ Ephesians 3: was just 16-21 NRSV

Stencils used in the acrostic poem:

Left stencil: Christian Symbols 1Right stencil: Christian Symbols 2To see all my StencilGirl Products Stencils: https://www.stencilgirlproducts.com/stencils-valerie-sjodin-s/2044.htm