What a week. Sometimes, the universe aligns and things seem to fall into place. This week was one of those weeks. It was a week about listening to the hearts of women. Women fighting the spirit of anger. Women trying desperately to make a fresh start.

Ah, fresh starts! My passion.

Last night, while speaking to women trapped in domestic abuse, one beautiful woman looked at me and shared, “You have a beautiful smile.” There, in the midst of her own pain, she exhorted me. That is why I do what I do. Even in the darkest of times, light shines through.

So many times, I want to quit. Sitting in self-pity and woe-is-meism, I let my selfish nature talk me into taking the easy road in life. But then, I sit in a group of women or stand on my front porch and listen to someone share their heart and BAM! It hits me. Nothing brings me deep joy like seeing a woman find her smile again. Suddenly, the light shines through. God reaches down, offers his hand, and a little hint of joy and peace return.

So, even though I’m a day late with our Fresh Start Friday word of the week, know I’ve been working hard this week, helping women find their smile once again. So, my fresh start word today is found in Proverbs 15:23 (MSG BIBLE):

“A cheerful heart brings a smile to your face;
a sad heart makes it hard to get through the day.”

We’re heading into the holidays. Tough times for many, many people. I’ll have a few of those myself, I’m sure. But, I’m setting my heart on this proverb, in hopes of bringing the true joy of Christ to everyone along my daily journey. Listen now to this short, inspiring word on THE HIDDEN POWER OF A SMILE:

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