Where to begin...

 As a writer, I know that I should start out with a "hook".  I need something to grab people's attention and let them know that they might be interested in what I post here.  I could say something shocking or surprising and my kids know that I have many stories that surprise people, but I think I am simply going to start with this for now.

I am a wounded bird.  I love people deeply, but the flip side of that is that I also hurt deeply.  Two weeks ago, as I sat in a meeting sharing some lessons that I've learned in the past few years of my life, I was overcome by how much I love people.  That is what God has placed in my heart.  A deep, deep love for people.  I gain as much joy from connecting people as from connecting people to others.  Honestly, I think I actually gain more joy from the latter.  

I have pondered periodically what to do with this love, which is where this blog comes in.  I am going to try and focus on encouragement and practical ideas of how we can love the people who come in and out of our lives better.  My hope is that these bits and pieces will help me to pause and also be an encouragement to you if you read them.  

Here is my prayer: "Lord, please help us to love others around us intentionally."