A BOX OF CHOCOLATES
Maybe Forrest Gump’s mama was a prophet after all… I mean she did have some pretty catchy sayings and with his accent they kinda have a way of stickin’ in your head… Like the chocolate sticks to your fingers… I chuckled as that line from that movie popped into my head. “Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re gonna get.”
I didn’t that day. It started with an ordinary email. She couldn’t read my blog post and kindly pointed out that the background of my site was too dark to contrast the words in the text. It wasn’t the first time I’d heard it, but it was certainly the most compelling.
I answered the email and explained that it was a one-of-a-kind picture that I’d got from Amy, another Christian blogger who had taken the ocean picture and that I would indeed address the issue. She wrote back and thanked me for my kind response and asked a few questions, like what kind of blog I had and what I hoped to gain by doing it.
I explained that it is a Christian/Inspiration site, (at least that’s the desire!) and how I’d started it on the advice of agents who had turned down my first manuscript and how I’d been blessed beyond what I ever could have imagined by doing so. The sister in Christ explained she understood the concept well of building a platform for supporting writing.
By this point, the online dialogue was in full swing and I suspected both of us knew we had just tipped open the lid to our life’s box of God’s chocolates. Turns out Lynn is from St. Louis, the place my wife is from and whose family still lives there. We shared places and names of what was familiar.
Then my new humble and unassuming friend finally shared with me a passionate part of her life. One she’d spent a great deal of time and energy sharing with others. It happens to be a passion of mine as well as the majority of those reading this now.
By the time I got to Amazon.com and found Lynn’s passion in print, I was delighting in the sweetness of God’s box of chocolates. One of the books Lynn has had published is Love Letters To God: Deeper Intimacy Through Written Prayer. I got it for my wife and I couldn’t recommend or rate Lynn’s book highly enough.
Love Letters To God is a book on journaling to and for God and the blessings and closeness that can be ours from God in the process. Reading Lynn’s writing that is inspired by God is like sitting and chatting with your close friend or sister in Christ in a Holy Spirit filled magical moment.
God used Lynn’s book to change forever how I communicate with God and how I now end every Bible study I undertake. I’m proud of my new friend and sister in Christ and I appreciate all the help and advice she’s given me. To be honest, as much as I love a good box of chocolates…
This is heavenly better…
Lynn Morrissey
Tuesday, January 22, 2013 @ 6:18 pm
Floyd, I love how God, Himself, serves the chocolate and offers us to partake. Truly, our God is generous and gives us abundanly sweet things. I had no earthly idea when I wrote about a “dark-chocolate” background on a blog that the Lord would give me a helping of sweet empathy from a fellow Christain. I have appreciated so much your graciousness and your answering my questions about the world of blogging. I come to this late, having spent earlier years writing devotional books, contributing to anthologies, and writing magazine/newspaper articles, and then my solo book, Love Letters to God (so beautifully illustrated by Katia Andreeva). Blogging is a whole new world to me. Thank you, Floyd, for your kind introduction, and for the way you so passionately and transparently share your heart here at There Go I. As I believe I commented in another of your posts, I can say that so often…..there but for the grace of God go I. And even when I have sinned and gone my own way and He did not stop me, I can still say, because of God’s lavish grace, I have been forgiven (amazingly!) and am an undeserving recipient of His love and mercy. These themes weave through my book that you reference. And my goodness! Little did I expect a blog post to be returned by such a generous gesture as this–mentioning my book on your blog. I am just so touched. I offered a piece of chocolate, but you’ve served up the whole box! I pray that your readers will come to know that journaling is one of the most intimate forms of prayer in which they can communicate with the Lover of their souls. You’re right: I’m totally passionate about it, because God uses this process to transform lives and draw us to Him. And just think: When we journal, we have a written record of His faithfulness to us throughout the years. What a legacy we can leave our progeny. It just doesn’t get any sweeter than that! Thank you again, Floyd, for your kindness. May the Lord bless you richly as you continue to write this wonderful blog, telling the story of God in your life.
Blessings and thanks!
Lynn
Floyd
Tuesday, January 22, 2013 @ 6:31 pm
It is my honor and privilege to be able to share with anyone who reads this what wonderful and powerful book God has directed you to write. The other cool thing is that He’s still using your words to impact His other children. I was touched in a deep and profound way. It’s not too often that you get to have your doors blown off in good way as an adult! Thanks for your obedience and heart. May God continue to use you mightily, Lynn. And thank you for offering that chocolate the God has used to multiply so sweetly across the lives and souls of His children.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 2:49 pm
BTW, I should proof what I write, but hopefully everyone understands that I am a writer! =]
Lynn
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 5:57 pm
Ditto that for me!
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 7:25 pm
🙂
L.
Hazel Moon
Tuesday, January 22, 2013 @ 6:20 pm
God sent a published writer to you and you will be inspired in perhaps new directions even as your changed your background, you life is changing daily.
Those chocolates are so delicious and sometimes the chocolate clings to your fingers. Like a good cup of coffee – good to the last drop. Taste and see that the Lord is good!
Floyd
Tuesday, January 22, 2013 @ 6:27 pm
Amen, Hazel! How blessed I am to be able to be surrounded by my family in Christ that I’ve never even shook hands with! And to read the words that God places in their hearts… Like yours and your book as well! Too amazing! Thanks, Hazel!
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 10:43 am
Hello Hazel,
Floyd has invited my comments, and I’m so glad. So lovely to make your acquaintance. I loved your change metaphor, and I can tell that you are someone who really encourages Floyd. THat’s what I love about the blog world, which I am discovering. There is so much sweet encouragement to go around. And yes, it’s finger-licking good! Loved that analogy too. May the Lord bless you in all *you* write!
Lynn
Hazel Moon
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 11:19 am
Thanks Lynn for your kind words, Floyd does encourage me a LOT. His comments on my posts cause me to press on and keep writing. He is a good person to bounce ideas off of too. His posts often trigger memories that I had forgotten – to eventually write about.
bill (cycleguy)
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 3:32 am
Gonna have to look this one up Floyd. With a recommendation like that it means I am missing something. Thanks.
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 6:52 am
Oh man. It moved me and as I said will forever change the depth of communication I have in a written Bible study with my Father. It is beautiful writing, but real world issues that parallel all of our strengths and weaknesses. What a blessing you’ll get. Thanks Bill.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 10:46 am
Hi Bill.
You know, I was pretty well amazed by Floyd’s generosity. While I am obviously a woman and write for women, I have been pleased by comments that men make about the book. What is universal, if you will, is that in the end, both men and women struggle, and the only One who can really help us is God. This is not a fluffy book (though a pretty one in terms of format). So I think that is why men will be able to read it sans apology.
All God’s best to you in your journaling journey.
Lynn
bill (cycleguy)
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 12:20 pm
Thanks Lynn
Dan Erickson
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 6:46 am
Looks like a book worth reading. Floyd, I noted that you started this blog after not getting a manuscript published. I went straight to self-publishing my work. Have you thought of doing that? I’m going to publish my trilogy and then start seeking traditional publishing on my fourth book.
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 6:58 am
It is a short but powerful book, Dan. I have thought of self-publishing and am still considering it with that first manuscript. That manuscript is a non-fiction that defines some of the characteristics that make up great people based on Biblical perspective. At the time I would have had zero people it might motivate. Now I think there might be three! I’ll think and pray about it, Dan. And thanks for taking the time to get me to ponder it. I appreciate it!
Dan Erickson
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 7:07 am
I had few potential readers when I self-published last April. I’ve still only sold about 100 books, but it’s slowly building. I self-published on a colleague’s recommendation. He’s a poet and has done the same because we can spend years trying to land a traditional publishing deal. However, if I had it to do over, I’d have started building my blog before I published, not after.
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 9:43 am
Good advice, Dan. And good for you for following your passion. I guess it doesn’t matter how we get there or even if we get there, as long as we’re moving and following the passion placed there by God. He’s pretty good at taking care of the details!
bill (cycleguy)
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 12:22 pm
Hey Dan! Floyd’s been after me to do some writing. 🙂 I still have his email in my inbox and I usually clear it out pretty quickly. Reckon it comes down to whether I feel I have something to say and how it would go over. Is that fear talking?
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 10:48 am
Hi Dan,
I greatly appreciated Floyd’s recommendation about the book. I can see that you put much stock in his opinion, and no doubt that is because he is a man of integrity and a wonderful writer. Congratulations on publishing your own book. I think that many in the publishing world have changed their minds on that direction. If you write well, you don’t have to wait for publication by a big Christian house.
Blessings on your writing.
Lynn
Lisa notes
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 7:08 am
Just ordered the sample on my Kindle. Maybe I’ll sit down with a piece of chocolate when I read it. 🙂
Thanks for sharing this book and its powerful impact on you. Makes me want to read it for sure. You bless so many, Floyd, with your gracious gifts of words; glad that Lynn was able to bless you back with hers, not to mention changing how you end your Bible study time. Great post.
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 9:46 am
Thanks, Lisa. It is such an amazing thing to still be wowed by getting closer to our Father. Drawing nigh unto Him and having Him draw nigh unto us is a blessing that can’t be measured by the biggest number in this physical world. Thanks, Lisa. And thanks for your encouragement and kind words that you share with all of your brothers and sisters in Christ.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 10:51 am
Lisa, I found your website and used your contact info to write to you directly. But I wanted to say that you obviously respect Floyd, and no wonder. He is such a gifted and honest author. And it’s obvious that he is passionate about Jesus! We need more like him. I do thank you for reading Love Letters to God and pray that the Lord will use it to encourage your own journaling to Him. ANd may I stress that when I say “love letters” I”m not just speaking about something frilly and feminine. If you truly love someone, you should be able to say anything that is on your heart. So I detail many raw and painful places in my journey. But, in the end, I am always writing to Jesus, who hears, listens, forgives, and understands. May the Lord truly bless you, Lisa!
Lynn
April
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 7:19 am
I will have to check this book out! It sounds like a great concept!
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 9:48 am
I guarantee you will absolutely cherish it and how God will use it to reach deep within. It’s real life struggles and how we can reach deeper to God and find His sovereign hand in the most difficult times in life. Thanks, April.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 10:53 am
Hi April.
So nice to make your acquaintance. I do pray that you will consider journaling your prayers to the Lord. I cannot begin to tell you how the Lord has used this uniquely form of intimate communication to transform my life. When one write, you slow down in God’s presence and allow Him to really speak to your soul. You have a written record of God’s faithfulness and your intimate communications with Him. When you pour out your soul, as David says (on paper in my case), God becomes a refuge to you (Ps. 62). May the Lord bless you abundantly on your journaling adventure!
lynn
April
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 3:35 pm
Well, i went out today and got a new, leather journal and a couple Collier pens so i would want to write and I’m ready to start!
Floyd
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 3:41 pm
Oh man… I can only imagine the words that are going to spill from your abundant heart unto our Father, April! Good for you! Keep us posted. Thanks, April!
Lynn Morrissey
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 3:51 pm
Good for you, April (love your name!). Now you’re set. I do think the kind of journal and pen you use can make a difference. Mostly, it’s important just to start. However, we do tend to like different writing implements. You’ll have to tell us about your Collier pens. I’m unfamiliar with them. I use Pilot rolling balls, fine point. They don’t bleed through the page and are quick-drying. I also (usually) write in an 8 1/2 x 11 artist’s stetchbook, which I get on sale at back-to-school sales. The paper is non-acidic and the vellum paper has a creamy quality, which enhances quick writing. I’m arthritic, and I write better if the surface is smooth. Sometimes, I indulge in a more expensive journal, such as what you are doing. I used to tell women that they could just use a cheap notebook (and one still can), but I have now found that those I wrote in years ago have simply not held up well. The writing has faded and of course, the paper tears from the spiral rings. So now longer do I recommend this. The stetchbooks are relatively reasonably priced if you wait for the sales. All the best, and I hope you will keep us posted on your adventure!
Blessings,
Lynn
Loren Pinilis
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 7:20 am
Huh, it’s funny how the smallest encounters can end up being such great experiences and blessings. There are just so many different ways to get blessed out there – God has really given us a great community to share life with.
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 9:49 am
Amen to that, Loren! I never would have dreamed how God could use this community of brothers and sisters to bring deep fellowship for Him. It is absolutely mind boggling! Thanks, Loren.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 10:55 am
Hi Loren (love that name–sounds Irish)!
You are so right about God’s amazing sovereignty and how He intricately connects us. That is what I am growing to love about this blogging world–so new to me. So glad to make *your* acquaintance via Floyd. I can tell you are a friend of his and encourage him. I’m glad, because his words need to be read!
Blessings,
Lynn
Jillie
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 7:26 am
Dear Floyd…I am writing this on the run this morning, but just HAD to comment. I came across Lynn’s book some years ago now. Then when I entered the 21st century a year ago, by getting my laptop and getting online, I discovered Lynn on another site that I believe is now defunct. I found her email address and promptly wrote to her to tell her of the profound impact her book has had on my life! I have journalled for years and never knew it could be such a great means of communing with God in an intimate way. I began journalling my prayers and this discipline has revolutionized my life! Not to mention that Lynn and I have become fast friends online. She is a precious, caring, wise lady, and her friendship means the world to me. I cannot wait for her blog to be up and running! Thank you for featuring her today. What an unexpected blessing!
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 9:54 am
Wow… I’m glad you’re touched by God through Lynn’s writings and my testimony of it here today, Jillie. I’m with you, seemingly small changes can bring such life changes! I’m honored to share and appreciate your witness to Lynn’s book too! It is a blessing to share with family and acknowledge one of our own who walked the difficult path for God to bring about His will. Thanks, Jillie! God bless.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 10:58 am
Jillie, what can I say?! Your name is synomous with joy to me. You are such a devoted lover of the Lord and such an exuberant exhorter. I can’t begin to tell you how God has used you to encourage me in many ways, including in your great enthusiasm for Love Letters to God. How you even found out about this book is a story in itself, but it proves to me God’s faithful sovereignty. I am so glad I obeyed Him in writing it (that in itself for all you writers out there was a long, arduous journey of ten years)….but God knew those who would need a message of encouragement of how to draw near to Him, pen in hand, and how He will use prayer-journaling to transform them! Thank you for your wonderful friendship and support. I love you!
Lynni
Audra Krell
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 8:30 am
Floyd, this is so cool. Love seeing how God is working in your life and you have such a wonderful way of sharing it with us. I feel like I’ve met Lynn now, thanks to your talent for writing. And what a great recommendation for her book. I’ll look it up on Amazon, sounds perfect for me!
I have to say, that I really enjoyed being able to see all parts of your text on this clear blog today! : )
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 9:56 am
Ha! Good one, Audra! Knowing you, I know for certain you will appreciate Lynn’s book and it will add to the depth of not only your study time, but also your wonderful writing as well! I think it will have that impact on all of us. You and Lynn will become fast friends… since you’re already sisters! Thank, Audra.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 11:01 am
Hello Audra. I had to smile about the “clearness of the blog”! =] It’s still a bit dark for me, but I’d adjusting! I thnk it is simply amazing how Floyd always writes from a deep heart-place and shares how God is working in his life. He is a masterful writer, but moreover, one with true humility and reliance on the Lord. No wonder you come back here to read again and again. If you decide to journal, I think you will be amazed at all the joys in store for you. I hope you will pick up your pen. Your life will never be the same!
Fondly,
Lynn
Audra Krell
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 1:30 pm
I do keep a journal from time to time and actually know Floyd from our shared love of the written word. I’m always looking for new books like yours, to guide my journaling with God to another place. Thank you for reaching out!
Lynn Morrissey
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 4:00 pm
Audra, I”m so happy that you are a journal keeper. You already know the wonderful benefits of this means of communication with God. My book is not a how-to (though that was my original vision for Love Letters to God–both inspirational and instructional), but the publisher wanted to create a beautiful ambience, which would draw people to spend time reading; hence, it is gorgeously illustrated by Russian-Christian watercolorist, Katia Andreeva. That said, I do hope as you read and see how God transformed my life, that it will be a way to encourage you to keep journaling. Since that time, I have taught journaling classes and wrote curriculum for a class on personal spiritual revival. I was amazed to see how women went deep with the Lord in their journal and shared with other women. They were changed. So….one day, I hope to put some “how-to’s” together. In the meantime, for instruction, I would direct you to Luci Shaw’s LifePath on journaling. Keep writing to Him!
Lynn
Betty Draper
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 9:36 am
Thanks Floyd for opening us to Lynn writings. Will get her book also for my kindle. You are a wise man to take her suggestions for your blog…it is easier to read. I use to journal all the time then laid it aside for reasons I can’t even remember now. My daughter has already told me she wants those early journals and my bible. My son keeps telling me I need to write a book and I have played with the idea. It’s for sure there are lots of experiences tucked away in my heart to build around. I tend to think I do not have the skills to do that which means I am trusting in myself instead of Him. I look forward to your and a few others post because of the deep spiritual truths you pull out of your experiences. Ok on to ordering Lynn book…
tcavey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 10:33 am
Amazing how God works!
I will have to check this book out! Thanks for recommending it.
oh, and I love your blog!
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 11:04 am
Hi TC
Truly, it is amazing how God works. I love to call Him the Divine Networker, because truly He puts no one in our paths by accident. Floyd and his writing have been such a blessing to me, and I echo your sentiments: I LOVE his blog!
If you journal, I wish you God’s abundant blessings. I think you will be amazed at how He uses it to transform your life!
Thanks for stopping by and joyful journaling!
lynn
Floyd
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 3:38 pm
God is amazing! You’ll love the real life content in Lynn’s book, TC. It’s written beautifully, but it packs a punch. Just your style! Thanks, TC.
Jason Stasyszen
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 11:59 am
Great tribute and story. That’s so interesting too because I’ve been encouraging our congregation here to keep a written prayer journal this year. It does something inside us that’s different, plus we have the reference later. Thanks for the introduction to Lynn. Sounds like an excellent book, Floyd.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 12:31 pm
Wow, Jason! What a wondeful experience this would be to encourage at your church. I have spoken to women in my church about journaling, but of course, journaling is wonderful for me, too. Modern-day male believers who journal are Chuck Swindoll, David Jeremiah, and James Dobson to name a few. When you journal, you spend more time in God’s presence (not a bad thing, but really a very calming thing), and you can pour out your heart to God on paper. There is something very cathartic about writing, which the psalmist David, knew. And our prayers will become very specific as we see the progression of our thought on the page. Amazingly, I pray things I didn’t even know I was thinking. And yes, we can look back over the years, and see how faithful God was to answer those prayers. You have nothing to lose, but everything to gain in your spiritual walk when you journal!
Blessings,
Lynn
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 5:37 pm
You know what “they” say, Jason? Great minds think alike! Good for you and good for your flock! And yes, Lynn’s book is excellent.
Ngina Otiende
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 12:07 pm
I really like the new background by the way :)I think and speak faster than I write..but i journal and write my prayers sometimes. It sounds like an amazing book.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 12:34 pm
Yes, it’s true….speaking is faster, and certainly I speak my prayers to God (I love to talk to Him on my daily walks). God honors those prayers, as much as written prayers, but the thing is that you can never retrieve those prayers again in their exact wording and essence. There is a saying that the palest ink is better than the most retentive memory. The point is that we think we will remember everything that we say to God or that He says to us, but we won’t. We’re human and we forget. So….we don’t need to be legalistic about written prayer, but if you can just try it, I think you will find that it becomes the highlight of your day, and certainly that goes for reading God’s Word. It’s really neat to journal about what He shows you in His Word!
Blessing to you,
Lynn
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 5:38 pm
I’m sorry it took me so long to change the background, Ngina! Good for you for already being a step ahead. Thanks, Ngina.
Shelly Miller
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 12:17 pm
We are all better people for having met Lynn and her words. I have my own signed copy where I sit every evening with my family but it is her life and the way she gives so generously that speaks volumes. So glad you found each other Floyd. I’m from St. Louis too!
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 5:42 pm
How cool is that? Lynn has definitely been a breath of fresh air for me and has a wonderful and sincere heart. Know wonder you two are so close. The next time we are in St. Louis maybe we can all meet on The Hill (or Gus’ Pretzel) for a cup of Joe? That would be great. Thanks, Shelly. And thanks also to Lynn for introducing me to your writing world, it is amazing!
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 9:15 pm
Shelly, somehow I missed your words here, and I’m so glad that you dropped by Floyd’s blog. I am privileged to have introduced the two of you. And my goodness! Your words to me are so gracious and generous. So unexpected. Bless and thank you so much, dearest one. I know readers will love your blog too, as Floyd does! http://redemptionsbeauty.wordpress.com/
Isn’t the St. Louis connection fun?! Floyd’s wife Diane lived on the Hill, which is why he mentions it, and no doubt he likes a good pizza! So we’ll all have to “meet me in St. Louis, Louis”! ….and *that* reminds me that at Christmas, at my women’s luncheon, we sing a beautiful song from that movie called “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” which no doubt you both know. I had the rare privilege of corresponding a couple of times with the composer, Hugh Martin, and not all that long ago. He died in 2011 at age 94. I was amazed that he responded to me. He was so kind and gracious. His conversion story was miraculous and the Lord led him out of alcholism and addiction. He told me that he had spent his time redeeming his music for Christ. So he wrote new lyrics to that song and called it “Have Yourself a Blessed Little Christmas.” I looked everywhere and couldn’t locate it, so bless his heart, he sent me an autographed copy! How I treasure it. He even penned a staff and the first several measures on the front of the music. Amamzing where my train of thought has led this evening…..but if you would like to see him playing his “redeemed” version (I know you love that word, Shelly!), go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-WzIJjaW5F4
I can’t tell you how much I appreciate both you and Floyd–certainly your writing talents, but moreover, your humble hearts for Christ!
Love
Lynn
Floyd
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 7:10 am
That’s an amazing version of that Christmas song. Remarkable talent. Works for me far better than the original! Thanks for being the bond and bridge for Christ for so many, Lynn. What a blessing for all of us…
Lynn Morrissey
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 9:33 am
OH , I’m so glad you enjoyed hearing the actual composer play his new song. I really wanted to share this (once I circuitously arrived at that point–had NO idea this was what I’d share when I started writing! :-)…..but I’m glad I did, b/c not too many Christians know about the new version. It would be wonderful to sing at Christmas time!
Kel Rohlf
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 1:21 pm
Floyd- I am great admirer of Lynn! She is such an encourager and has revolutionized the way I approach journaling and dialoguing with God, too. So glad to see how we can encourage another with words! Lynn’s book is lovely…in everyway…her real life stories told with elegance as prayers of her heart to God and also the illustrations make this a great gift book and book to return to year after year. Can’t wait to hear more of how both you and Lynn further the kingdom of God with your words and prayers. Kel
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 1:41 pm
And Kel, what a true exhorter of God you are! Have to tell Floyd that I met Kel in a bookstore–another one of those God connections–no accident. She recongized me from a talk I’d given on Love Letters to God, on journaling. So Kel and I met at Starbucks and have been meeting ever since. She is an ideas generator and just chock full of wonderful creativty. She passionately loves Jesus, and I encourage others to read her blog at http://www.nourishsoul.blogspot.com/ She loves words and their etymology and beautifully applies them spiritually. Thank you for your wonderful encouragement, Kel!
Love
lynni
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 5:48 pm
Wow! You’re right. That chance meeting was no chance! How amazing that is! So glad you two have one another and I’m honored to be brought into the “gang”! At least via the internet! Thanks for sharing that story, Lynn, it speaks volumes to the hand of God here!
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 5:45 pm
Thanks, Kel! I’m honored to get to be in contact with so many believers with the heart to lift up others. This is like the polar opposite of the world. When Christ said, “They will know you by the love you have for one another,” I think this is a great example. Thanks for being part of this powerful word and thanks for sharing your world in it with us, Kel.
Mike
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 3:42 pm
I love chocolate, and believe it’s a food group in itself. God’s chocolate, of course is the best. I may just have to try out that book.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 5:03 pm
Hey Mike! You would like my Michael. He loves all things chocolate, and actually does consider it a food group. He says that chocolate makes a great breakfast food, complete with protein (the milk part) and traces of vitamin A. Yeah, I know, it’s a great line anyway. I do encourage you to journal in addition to your blogging. You will draw closer to God and with more time spent in His presence, He will teach you so much. Go for it!
Blessings,
Lynn
Floyd
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 5:50 pm
Man alive, Mike. Knowing you like I do, I know you’d be touched deeply. I was. And, I know you won’t be surprised, I think chocolate is food group too! Thanks, Mike.
Kristin
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 7:04 pm
I journal my blessings for the day each day, thanking God for each one. I believe this has opened my eyes even more to seeing Him in everything and has brought a deeper dialogue which I love.
I love a good book just as much as a box of chocolates and it sounds as if this one is going to better than chocolate. I will check it out. Thank you for leading us to Love Letters to God. Anything leading us to a more intimate relationship with the Father is grand to me.
*Would it be ok to eat the chocolates while reading?;)
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 7:24 pm
Kristin, after all these chocolate posts, I think you would be in trouble if you didn’t eat chocolate whenever you read! 🙂 Oh, how wonderful that you journal your blessings! I really like the idea of journaling your praises in thanks to God for all He’s done or has provided, rather than just keeping a gratitude list. Journaling takes you deeper in “dialogue” with God, as you put it, because you are expressing yourself from the heart (rather than just listing things for which you are grateful). During a time of depression and grumbling in my life, I kept what I called a “Joy Journal,” in which I did just what you are talking about. God used that to totally transform me. In fact, in the book, there is a chapter called Butterfly Blessings, where I talk about this during an especially depressing time in my life (after serious and painful foot surgery, when I didn’t know if I would ever walk right again w/o pain). God used jounaling about my blessings to totally change my perspective. And in that chapter, I include an actual prayer that I wrote about my young daughter (after I had rebelliously struggled over becoming a mother and leaving my career). I still get tears in my eyes when I read that prayer (and the one about my abortion). Those prayers came straight from my heart from my journal and were not edited). I pray that the Lord will continue to bless and enrich your journaling journey with Him! Kristen, what an adventure you’ll have!
Fondly,
Lynn
Floyd
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 6:58 am
Sorry, Kristin… Any form of eating chocolates while reading Love Letters To God is illegal and you will be reported!!! Just kidding! I think whether you eat the chocolates or not, the book is going to touch your heart… So cool that you already journal! Thanks, Kristin!
Dan Black
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 @ 11:16 pm
I plan to check out the book! The title sounds great. Thank you for sharing it with us:)
Floyd
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 7:12 am
Thanks, Dan. You’ll be blessed for sure!
Lynn Morrissey
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 12:35 pm
Hi Dan…..any friend of Floyd’s…..! Nice to make your acquaintance. I’m glad you commented on the title of my book, because sometimes readers can shy away (especially men), because they think this is an ooey-gooey kind of calling upon the Lord. True, I do often express my love to Him in my journals, but I am meaning this as a genuine, transparent relationship with the Lord. Those who love each other should be able to express their true feelings and concerns, and those who love back will listen and still be accepting. And when I confess sin, I know that God does not want me to sin, but nor does He want me to shy away from confession. True love confesses and true love forgives. I wish you well in your journaling journey with the Lord.
Blessings,
Lynn
Betty Draper
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 4:33 pm
After reading all those great comments on Lynn’s book it’s one I want to read. When I first got saved I journal all the time, almost every day. I still have all those early notebooks full of God speaking to me. It seems I quit writing things down as much when we went over seas, life got busier then I knew it would. So I know I need something to rekindle the desire to journal besides the blog. Especially for my two children. Our daughter has already said, Mom I want all those writings you did and your bible. Jared our son think I should write a book and I have kicked it around some. Anyway this post my brother and the comments from you and Lynn have given me new courage to step out in faith on this issue. Blessings
Floyd
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 5:06 pm
That’s great, Betty! Along with your journaling, I have to agree with Jared; you should write that book! You have an easy way with words that brings a soothing strength to the soul. As long as you’re writing it for God, I don’t think it matters how far it goes. I know we’re all in agreement, if it reaches one soul for Christ, or if He uses it to lift up one of His chosen, it’s worth all the time and effort. Thanks, Betty. Keep us posted if you would.
Lynn Morrissey
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 5:15 pm
Something in your post, Betty, literally moved me to tears! I know you were meant to read this post and all the comments and that you are meant to journal again! When you own children are requesting this, you know how important it is! Can you imagine what a legacy those notebooks are to your children……..and if you would start up again, what a momumental treasure you will be leaving them–and not just that, but you will be growing closer to Christ with every entry. My mother has journaled for many years and has stacks and stacks of journals. I don’t want to thnk of her leaving us, but she knows what a treasure trove I consider her journals to be. Stuff is stuff, but your interactions with the Lord, your prayers for your children….this is what will undergird them and support them when you can’t be here in person. And they can pass these on to their children. The cycle is endless. I would encourage you to start re-reading your journals. God will use this to draw you close and to show you how important it was to write things down, and you will read things you’ve forgotten. And just start with writing a couple of lines…..you won’t be able to put down your pen. You will open a floodgate! I wish you all God’s blessings in this writing adventure……and explore what you would write in a book in your journal. God will open doors.
Fondly,
Lynn
Pam
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 4:52 pm
This book truly is beautiful… a lovely testimony on many levels, and a wonderful spark to listening to the Lord in our quiet times. Thank you again, Lynn, for sharing your heart in this. You have it right, Floyd, about chocolates… 🙂
Floyd
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 5:17 pm
Thanks, Pam. And thanks for stopping by for a visit. I’ve been introduced to such amazing people from Lynn. I too appreciate Lynn’s heart and passion. I also enjoyed a visit to your neck of the woods… Good stuff.
Lynn Morrissey
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 5:18 pm
Pam, thank you so much. I know you’ve read Love Letters to God, so your words here mean so much. YOu are such a precious encourager! And wow! I hope readers will read your blog. I call you a wordsinger, and there are not many around. Your lilting lyricism always takes me to His throne. And as we have become acquainted at your blog and through emails, I just want to say how throughful, gracious, and encouraging you are. Readers will love you! Please see Pam’s beautiful blog at http://wordglow.wordpress.com/
You are in for a treat!
Love,
Lynn
Pam
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 9:40 pm
Thank you so much, Lynn. You are always exactly that kind of encourager to me!
Nancy
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 11:17 pm
I love it! Absolutely….. God IS The Divine Networker, as Lynn mentioned. Have had more than a few of those these past few weeks… I am “out in the field” these days, picking up and delivering… It takes me away from access to sit-down writing and communication…. Can’t spend as much time reading posts either, but these seasons come and go.
Thanks Floyd and Lynn!
Lynn Morrissey
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 11:27 pm
Hi Nancy, nice to hear from you. THere are seasons for everything, aren’t there. But I find I can always take even a little journal with me–one that can fit in my purse….or a little spiral notepad–whatever. You can always take field notes and capture what God is doing in your life. I have really appreciated meeting Floyd’s wonderful friends! Thank you for stopping by!
Blessings,
Lynn
Floyd
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 5:43 pm
Thanks, Nancy. Well said, “The Divine Networker.” I like it! I know for sure He has you where He wants you and am looking forward to reading about it!
Nancy
Thursday, January 24, 2013 @ 11:32 pm
LOL! Hey Lynn, Trust me….I do just that and often log them on my blog. Maybe you’ll visit. http://www.songsatnight.blogspot.com. Not able to get to it as readily as I had, but will pick it up again soon. Blessings!
Lynn Morrissey
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 11:27 am
Thanks, Nancy. I’ll check it out! Great to know you are a writer!
Lynn
Maureen Jepchumba
Monday, January 28, 2013 @ 12:21 am
Hi Floyd and Lynn,
I am a journaler myself and reading through this just encouraged me to get back to journaling. It’s odd that I have never thought it can be a way to pray – I have read the introductory part of the book on Amazon. It’s definitely in my Wish list.
I have recently been learning how to be frank about my feelings to God. Before I used to go before God like a perfect kid coming to say sorry for my feelings. All along, God wanted me to acknowledge how I felt to Him and for Him to direct me to healing and His love for me – ultimately His good and perfect will.
Thanks for sharing Floyd. Great community and blessed interaction. Divine connections, really appreciate you both.
Floyd
Monday, January 28, 2013 @ 6:28 pm
Thanks, Maureen. God is good to use our brothers and sisters to encourage and pass along wisdom. What a blessing we have and thanks to you, sister for sharing yours here. You are always such a blessing.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 30, 2013 @ 7:21 pm
Hi Maureen,
I just happened to come back here (it’s been awhile since this post), and I’m so happy to meet you and read what you wrote! I just read a post at another site today about journaling and how it is very important to express our feelings. And surely, what is more important than expressing them to God, which is why I love to prayer-journal, in particular. I literally write word-for-word what I say to God. I believe that we can express anything to HIm –the most positive or negative of emotions. He cares about them all. And your pen acts like a siphon to draw them from deep inside you. Sometimes (in fact often) I write things to God that I didn’t even know what I was thinking! Seeing our thoughts unfold on the page, leads us from thought to thought–until God draws it all out. There is just something about the act of writing that brings clarity. I do hope that you will try writing your prayers. I do pray orally too, because it would take forever to write every prayer……but it’s amazing what you can write in even 15 minutes! Keep being transparent before the Lord. He will honor that, Maureen. I’m thrilled to know that you are journaling!
Fondly,
Lynn
Suzy Ryan
Monday, January 28, 2013 @ 5:09 pm
Thanks, Floyd, for highlighting what I’ve thought for years. I’ve been reading Lynn Morrissey’s writing for a long time, and I always learn from her lovely prose and incredible insight. She never fails to touch my heart. 🙂
Floyd
Monday, January 28, 2013 @ 6:41 pm
Amen, Suzy. God touched her such a wonderful gift and Lynn has shared it with all of us. What a blessing! Blessed minds think alike, Suzy! Thanks.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, January 30, 2013 @ 7:23 pm
Suz, you are so dear to drop by to visit Floyd and his friends, and I am so moved by your gracious words about me and my writing. My goodness! It’s YOU who are a wonderful writer. I am so blessed by your friendship via CLASS so many years ago. I know you appreciate journaling and I know God blesses all you offer Him with your words in so many ways. Keep visiting Floyd. You’ll love him!
Love
Lynni
Joanne Norton
Saturday, February 16, 2013 @ 8:26 pm
Well, you are obviously loved … and, as I responded to you today, this is an example of why I’m “jealous”. ;-). Doing beautifully, you are.
My only main complaint… I nearly hated that movie. It was on TV at my daughter’s on my Mother’s Day return from Uganda in ’96, a week after my arrival. I wasn’t ready for anything with so much in my face. BUT … nearly everyone else loved it around the States and the world. [I grabbed my little grandson, who didn’t feel good, and carried him out of the room most of the time. I’m wimpy when it comes to watching violence, and garbage, and hearing the foul stuff.] BUT I LLLOOOVVVEEE chocolate.
So… I’m #85. How to you keep up with all this?? You’re something special, on both sides of those tracks.
Floyd
Sunday, February 17, 2013 @ 2:18 pm
That movie was a very “in your face” one I have to admit. Especially having come from a mission trip… I can only imagine. My wife was just cleaning out the freezer and threatened to throw away the rest of a giant chocolate bar. Sometimes you just gotta stand your grounds!
As you can see, the numbers were motivated by many of Lynn’s friends, but the best part of this is getting to become acquainted with other family members in Christ! Shhhhh! I didn’t want them to know I came from the wrong side of the tracks!!! Thanks, Joanne. You crack me up!
Lynn Morrissey
Friday, March 1, 2013 @ 9:08 pm
Just saw this. What’s the buzz? What movie?
Floyd
Saturday, March 2, 2013 @ 8:11 am
The movie Forest Gump that I referred to in the post. It did have some rough around the edges scenes I guess…