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Lessons I Learned from a Hokey Talent Show

8/26/2013

2 Comments

 
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Ok, I’ll admit it. I was tempted to skip the talent show at family camp this year. Not that I had anything against talent shows, but honestly, those programs can get a little hokey sometimes. Even the camp director joked about it. “Be sure to join us for tonight’s talent show – but remember – the emphasis is on the show, not the talent.”  

I figured some quiet time with a good book sounded more enjoyable than sitting through a night of silly skits and little kids plunking out Jesus Loves Me on the piano. What would I get out of a silly talent show?

Well, as it turned out, plenty.

The show began pretty much as expected. A boy told some jokes. A little girl hoola-hooped. It was somewhat entertaining – maybe even cute. But then Elijah, a teenage boy with down’s syndrome, came forward.

As the music began, Elijah broke into a lively, impromptu break-dancing routine. Everyone cheered while he joyfully hip-hopped his way through a song called, Don’t Waste Your Life. He was having a blast – and I couldn’t help but laugh and cheer along with the rest of the crowd. A lump formed in my throat. How glad I was that I didn't miss Elijah.    

A few acts later a man walked onto the stage and stood in front of the piano. “I’d like to play a song for my wife,” he said, a serious expression on his face. “You see, we’ve been going through the toughest battle of our lives since she was diagnosed with stage-four cancer.”   

At first I just sat quietly, listening to the music and appreciating the man’s obvious skill. I glanced at my two older girls, giving them my see-what-you-can-accomplish-when-you-practice-the-piano look, and hoped they got my point.

However, as the music filled the chapel, I found myself staring at his wife. She seemed vaguely familiar. Perhaps we’d sat at the same table for dinner one night. That’s right, I thought, their daughter was in Taylor’s small group this week. I’d noticed her around camp, but I’d never really seen her. Now I realized she was wearing a wig.

The woman dabbed her eyes as her husband tenderly poured out his heart onto the piano keys. I listened to the music and began to consider what this couple must be going through. Then my thoughts drifted to my own life. What if Curt and I were faced with such challenges? I suddenly felt grateful for the blessings in my life. How lucky I was to be able to share my life with my best friend. What an awesome privilege to raise our three girls. I began to realize so many little things I’ve taken for granted.

I’d been at family camp all week but never really noticed the people around me. A scary thought crossed my mind. Noticing people wasn’t enough. Sometimes I need to connect with them. But striking up a conversation with a stranger? That was out of my comfort zone.

The next morning I found myself face-to-face with the woman. I took a deep breath, introduced myself and told her I’d be praying for her. Well that little comment was the beginning of a wonderful conversation – one that we finished later that afternoon at a quiet little table down by the lake.

Not only did I learn more about this precious woman’s amazing journey, but I also discovered that she and I shared a common interest: to write – and one day be published.   

Most importantly, I learned that when I take my eyes off of myself, God helps me really see those around me. He'll even help me connect with them.  

As you go about your usual routine this week, I encourage you to look a little closer at those around you. You never know, God might have someone special for you to connect with.


Will you join me in prayer for James and Lynne Hutzel and their family?

In the spring of 2010
Lynne had been experiencing pain in her sternum. After much testing and ultimately a surgical biopsy it was determined to be a malignant/cancerous growth. 

Additional testing resulted in a diagnosis of stage 4 metastic cancer. The origin is currently unknown. There are additional tumors in the liver and ovaries.


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The Hutzel family
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Back to School Already?

8/19/2013

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PictureNow that's a cart full of school supplies!
Hi friends,

It's hard to believe that all three of my girls will be back at school this week. Where did the summer go? 

I've been feeling the need to squeeze out every last bit of summer vacation that I can. Therefore, I've decided to take a little break from my regular blog posts this week to enjoy some last-minute fun with my girls.  

See you next week!

Sheri


 
   

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We have a Winner!

8/12/2013

7 Comments

 
PictureThey're here!
Well actually, we have two winners! But before I make the big announcement, I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciated your comments. Thanks for taking the time to swing by my little corner of the internet. I felt very blessed and encouraged!

So this little box showed up on my doorstep today - and I'm telling you - it felt like Christmas! It's always fun to see the finished project. As I ripped open the box, four pairs of hands reached in for a copy. As my girls and I flipped through the pages, we raced to see who could spot my story first. Yes, we have a small celebration at the Zeck house whenever Mom gets published. 

And I'm excited to extend this celebration to you. After printing each comment we threw all the names into a basket. Then, my lovely assistant, Madison, picked the winners.

I am pleased to announce that Kelly Emery and Denise Valuk have each won a copy of Chicken Soup for the Soul: Devotional Stories for Wives. 

Congratulations ladies! I will be getting in touch with you soon. 

Now if you didn't win, don't despair. In just a few weeks, I'll be giving away another Chicken Soup book. I'm not sure of the date, but there's one thing I do know. When my next story comes out, I'm going to feel like celebrating!
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My lovely assistant, Madison.
7 Comments

It's a Giveaway Day!

8/5/2013

15 Comments

 
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This week I feel like celebrating! Want to join me? 

First, I’ll tell you why. Chicken Soup for the Soul: Devotional Stories for Wives is coming to bookstores soon! You’re familiar with Chicken Soup books, right? Each book shares 101 heartwarming and inspirational stories with readers all over the world. Well, in the soon-to-be-released Devotional Stories for Wives, one of those stories just happens to be mine!    

Here’s what Chicken Soup for the Soul is saying about the book:
Any woman of faith will find solace and strength in these 101 unique devotionals – consisting of a scripture reading, a Chicken Soup for the Soul Story, and a custom-written prayer by women of faith – as they go through the ups and downs of daily life and marriage. This collection will affirm God’s unconditional love and His wisdom. With stories that cover everything from everyday trials to test of faith, this collection will inspire, uplift, and counsel any woman of faith who needs a boost or reminder of God’s ever-present love. 
 
This week two lucky Writing from the Heart blog readers will win a copy of the Devotional Stories for Wives. This book isn't out in bookstores until September 10, but you can win a free copy today!

Here's how to enter a chance to win. Just leave a comment on my blog by Monday, August 12. Next week my girls and I will randomly select two winners.

What? You say you've never commented on a blog before? You say you wouldn't know what to say? Well don't worry, just keep it simple. Something like, "Hey Sheri - This sounds great. I never pass up the chance to win a free book." Or even, "I've been wondering what to give my mother-in-law for her birthday. This book sounds perfect."

Stop by my blog next week and I'll announce the winners. Good luck - and I'll look forward to hearing from you!

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