Character, Excellence, Faith, Family, Influence, Purpose

Blessings of Goodness

The book of Genesis records the dramatic life of Joseph. It is one of betrayal, forgiveness, redemption, and goodness. When Joseph’s brothers sold him, they thought they would never see him again. Joseph, however, became a leader in Egypt. Several years passed, and Joseph’s brothers traveled to Egypt for food. They unknowingly met with Joseph,… Continue reading Blessings of Goodness

Boldness, Character, Discipline, Excellence, Faith, Friendship, Influence, kindness, Purpose

Intentional Kindness

Kindness is a trait that comes naturally to some. It is one that can be easily and intentionally practiced so others are impacted by your thoughtfulness. A fruit of the Spirit is kindness, or lovingkindness. It is a characteristic of God, and He develops this trait in us so we can be more like Him.… Continue reading Intentional Kindness

Character, Excellence, Friendship, Influence, kindness, Purpose

Unexpected Kindness

What a blessing it is for people to express their kindness! People randomly provide food, clothing, a mowed lawn, or a paid coffee for the next person in line. Unexpected gifts of kindness. Several days are recognized to specifically encourage kindness. World Kindness Day is November 13. Random Acts of Kindness Day is celebrated on… Continue reading Unexpected Kindness

Boldness, Character, Discipline, Excellence, Faith, Freedom, Influence, love, Prayer, Purpose

Reward in the Waiting

Patience. It is a fruit of the Spirit we don’t particularly like. Still, it is a characteristic we develop to reflect Christ. There are several examples in Scripture of people who experienced patience. Noah was told to build an ark, yet he waited 100 years for the flood. Moses was used to deliver the children… Continue reading Reward in the Waiting

Boldness, Character, Discipline, Excellence, Faith, Freedom, Prayer, Purpose

Pursuing Peace

There have been instances in which I have experienced undeniable peace with major life decisions, conflict resolution, job situations, or family crises. There have also been instances in which peace seemed difficult to find, resulting in unrest, fear, anxiety, and worry. Like joy, peace is internal and difficult to grasp. It is an unexplainable calm,… Continue reading Pursuing Peace

Character, Discipline, Excellence, Freedom, Purpose

Developing Peace

Recently, I spent a day in DC with family. It was ... peaceful. The traffic was manageable. The people were friendly. The day was beautiful. Even at the end of the workday, I noticed people enjoying the outdoors by playing soccer or frisbee or walking their dog. Yes, it may have been an extraordinary—not the… Continue reading Developing Peace

Boldness, Character, Creativity, Discipline, Excellence, Faith, Freedom, joy, love, Music, Purpose

Unexplainable Joy

Joy is inner, unexplainable, delightful peace. It’s quiet. It’s calming. It’s resting. It’s uplifting. Joy is a gift from God. It is fruit of the Spirit. Joy is recognizing the blessings of God and finding delight. As we proclaim our thankfulness to God for the gifts He so willingly and abundantly bestows upon His children,… Continue reading Unexplainable Joy

Character, Excellence, Influence, love, Purpose

An Attitude of Love

Welcome to Connections2Excellence! This week begins a series on desired qualities. Faith Connection Friday extends the concept and relates to faith. Thank you so much for visiting! Love. It’s warm and fuzzy. It’s babies and sweet cuddles. It’s first love. It’s passion. It’s heartache in time of loss. It’s releasing our children to start their… Continue reading An Attitude of Love