Category: Community
-
Simply Giving: On Thanks Among Sorrow
I’ve felt true and utter pain before. When I was diagnosed with bipolar; when I faced devastating depression; when I went through a breakup; etc., etc. I have felt that sorrow, felt that longing for healing and hope. But let me tell you something: it is possible to simply give thanks even when we hurt, […]
-
From Strength To Strength: On Springs In The Valley
A few mornings ago, I read an encouraging Bible verse: As they go through the Valley of Baca    they make it a place of springs;    the early rain also covers it with pools. Psalm 84:6; ESV Right before this verse, the people “they” refers to are ones whose strength is in God. After Verse 6, it mentions they […]
-
Lately: Updates On Life, Love, & In-Between Moments
Life has been good and sweet lately. But it’s also been emotional and hard. It’s been a little good here, a little sad there, a little up here, and a little down there. I’m constantly learning and re-learning that the intermingling between joy and sorrow isn’t a bad thing, but a common trait of life. […]
-
My Race Is Not My Culture
I was adopted from China at a very young age. At just over one year old, I never spoke or understood Chinese; I don’t remember China; I don’t know my biological parents. I returned to China once — about a decade ago — and honestly, I don’t feel the need to visit again. I grew […]
-
A Little Grace: On Managing & Sustaining Creativity
I’m a creative. I never really called myself that until the past couple of years, but it’s true. I have always felt called to create, whether that’s writing for myself or others, making music and singing songs, taking photos, or even making artwork. God instilled this creative bone in me that I can’t get rid […]
-
It Takes A Village: On The Value Of Deeply-Rooted Community
I used to feel awfully alone. When I first returned to Dallas from Nashville, I felt awfully alone. Not the kind of loneliness that comes and goes with varying moods or circumstances, but the kind of isolation and desertion that leaves you feeling empty and saddened. Only a handful of my hometown and college friends […]
-
When Less Is More: On Giving Thanks
I’m really good at saying, “Thanks.” I thank people who bless me when I sneeze and people who hold the door open for me, I thank my servers and baristas and gym staff . I thank Dear Tim (aka Dad) when he puts oil in my car and Sweet Denise (Mom) when she makes dinner. […]
-
Getaway Recap: Baylor Homecoming
This weekend was a blast. At first, I was skeptical. I hadn’t been back to a Baylor homecoming or football game since I graduated (#WorstAlumnaEver). I wasn’t sure I would know anyone or be remembered or find friends. I was worried I would feel disconnected and isolated after all that’s happened post-grad. But my silly […]
-
To Stir Or To Steal: On Affection For God
“You have forgotten your first love.” That’s what Revelations 2 says regarding the church of Ephesus. While there is praise to be given to the members of the church, there’s criticism as well. Sometimes I forget my first love, too. I forget all The Lord has done for me: how He’s gone ahead and paved […]
-
Grace & Peace To You: On Kindness Through Faith
“Grace and peace.” This is how Paul greets the early churches in his letters from prison. These are the words Paul uses first and foremost to encourage fellow Christians. Lately I need more grace and peace. I need more grace and peace for myself. I need to feel God’s good grace at the end of […]
Words By Mae 