What's in a Name?

What’s in a name? that which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet... ~ William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet Act II, Scene II

Think lovely, be lovely...it seems simple enough, but there is an underlying meaning, a significance in my world.  It stems from what has become sort of a "life verse" for me...a theme for this stage (and the rest of my life) summed up in one cherished Bible verse:

 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.  Philippians 4:8 ESV

 This verse is in response to a tendency I had for most of my life (and that I still struggle with on occasion) to focus too much on what was wrong in my world instead of the blessings.  It reminds me that in the midst of many struggles throughout my life, I have grown, I have become strong and I have built an incredible relationship with Jesus.

 I'm no stranger to blogging.  Many years ago, I was part of a crowd of ladies who chronicled our lives and shared the ups and downs of being newlyweds and then new mothers with each other.  It was supportive and altogether, lovely, but I fell away because at some point life became too hard as it often does.  I've returned to the blogging world with a new focus and a new crop of passions.

 In this place, I hope you'll find encouragement.  Whether you have a child with autism as I do, an ex-spouse with whom you can't seem to find common ground, a body that seems to think so many foods are poison, or just a heart that has looked (or is looking) for love in all the wrong places, I think you'll find we have something in common.  My goal throughout the time period following my divorce (about 6 years as I write this) has to pursue complete healing and restoration and I am progressing well.

 By no means am I an expert (yet - who knows what the future will bring), but I trust that God will provide the words that will be a blessing to you and others.  I foresee that you will find an interesting mix (I'm an interesting sort!) of topics here - recipes with a Paleo and/or AIP (Autoimmune Paleo/Protocol) basis, various perspectives on the Bible and its teaching and what I've learned about divorce and co-parenting through my experience as well as any other topics that I am compelled to write about.

 I'd love to hear a little about you in the comments.  I also ask that you will pray for me as I embark upon this new project which I truly intend should be for God's glory.  Peace be with you today and always!

 ~ MeLissa 
Photo by paul morris on Unsplash

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