Blessed Magazine July - September, 2020

Ways to Support Your Black Colleagues Right Now

July/August, 2020

M AGAZINE HelpingSomeone in the Midst of CoronavirusAbuse

Short Works from Individuals on Facebook

Summer, 2020 Cool Things to Do While Social Distancing

July-September, 2020 BLESSEDMAGAZINE.ORG

7 Habits to Help You Enjoy a Longer, Better Life

8 Clever Moves When You Have $1,000 in the Bank

Jesus Will Never Leave You! If you haven’t discovered Jesus as your personal savior and would like to get to know Him today; please click the button below for a free e-book from our friends at Guideposts titled

‘How to Make Jesus Your Best Friend’

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CONTENTS

July - Sept, 2020

11 - Contributors

15

12 - Editor’s Corner 15 – Summer, 2020: Cool Things to Do While Social Distancing Whether it be from the comfort of your own home or outdoor activities {following safety precautions and social distancing guidelines}, these activities can help make this summer feel normal and just as fun as any other!

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19 – The Age of Innocence (Facebook Short Work) 21 – 7 Habits to Help You Enjoy a Longer, Better Life Take care of yourself now to have a brighter future ahead

25 – 30 Coconut Oil Uses for Beauty This beauty staple has a long shelf life and a number of health benefits.

31 – 8 Clever Moves When You Have $1,000 in the Bank

31

Saving up $1,000 in your checking account is a big milestone.

But leaving the money in checking likely doesn't make much sense since most checking accounts pay minimal or no interest.

37 – Heaven is Real My Friends (Facebook Short Work) There are people who say heaven isn't real, but that’s a lie by the father of all lies.

40 - Award-Winning Gospel Ensemble Gregory D and Company Releases Billboard Top 50 Charting Single, “My Time”, 08 | Blessed Magazine

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43 – Ways to Support Your Black Colleagues Right Now Diversity, equity, and inclusion expert Paula Edgar shares her suggestions for providing support in the workplace

47

47 - Helping Someone in the Midst of Coronavirus Abuse If you use social media, you’ve likely seen memes highlighting the growing tension in families as they adjust to being together 24/7 during COVID-19.

Some provoke laughter, or at least a smile—but to many, those memes aren’t funny

51 – Top 10 Picks for Secluded Beaches Across the US Enjoy tranquil and scenic sands well-suited for social distancing

57 - “Mystery” Man with the Heart of an Angel.

51

After a near fatal accident, I believe God answered my prayers through the creative ideas of a “mystery” man with the heart of an angel.

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07 | Blessed Magazine

PUBLISHER LT ENTERPRISES

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CHRIS LAWSON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LARAINE TURNER

SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR ZACHARY SANDERS DESIGN AND LAYOUT MICHAEL MURPHY

COVER DESIGN LT ENTERPRISES CONTRIBUTING WRITERS/ARTICLES/PHOTOS SHARED FROM M LOVES M! MARCO MANCINELLI THERESE BORCHARD POPSUGAR KRISTI KELLOGG CHRISTY RAKOCZY AMY POWELL NEMETH CAITLIN ABBER KAROLYN DEKKER. KITTY BEAN YANCEY MARIE STANCATO PINTEREST, YOUTUBE AND SHUTTERSTOCK

PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR TIFFANY BOSTON WEBSITE WWW.BLESSEDMAGAZINE.ORG BLESSED MAGAZINE IS A BI-MONTHLY ONLINE PUBLICATION, SUPPORTED BY OUR ADVERTISERS FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION CONTACT US AT CONTACT@BLESSEDMAGAZINE.ORG PERMISSIONS BLESSED MAGAZINE IS A FREE ONLINE PUBLICATION DEDICATED TO BRINGING IT’S READERS CONTENT THAT INSPIRE AND ENTERTAIN. WE STRIVE TO OBTAIN PERMISSION TO DISPLAY ARTICLES WITHIN OUR PUBLICATION. WITH ALL POSTINGS, WE WILL PROVIDE A LINK BACK TO THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR. FOR ARTICLE SUBMISSION CORRESPONDENCE, PLEASE CONTACT LT ENTERPRISES OR BLESSED MAGAZINE AT 917.310.7570 OR VIA EMAIL AT CONTACT@BLESSEDMAGAZINE.ORG OR CONTACT@LTENTERPRISES.NET

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Editor’s Corner

Praise the Lord My Brothers and Sisters in Christ!

First, I always give all glory and honor to my Lord Jesus Christ for without Him in my life, nothing I could ever do would amount to anything!

So many have fallen due to this virus which has plagued the world. We are seeing so much violence in our land, it makes you wonder. I want to encourage you to not lose hope in Jesus. This is the time to embrace your faith and move forward in love and peace.

I want to personally thank all of our fans and readers for their continued support of this ministry which has continued to strive and for that I am grateful to our Lord, Jesus Christ

Our goal is to continue being a resource for Christians and others for years to come and with your support we can keep this publication available free of charge always on our digital platform Pray for us as we continue to pray for you and thank you for reading this issue of Blessed Magazine God bless you!

Your Humble Servant in Christ,

Laraine Turner Editor-in-Chief 12 | Blessed Magazine

Summer, 2020 Cool Things to Do While Social Distancing

BY M Loves M!

15 | Blessed Magazine

Summer, 2020! Cool Things to Do While Social Distancing

While this summer will be very different than most, I am still sooo happy that it’s warmer out and summer is here! Despite this new reality, there really are a bunch of fun summer activities you can do while social distancing. Whether it be from the comfort of your own home or outdoor activities {following safety precautions and social distancing guidelines}, these activities can help make this summer feel normal and just as fun as any other!

see their requirements, because hiking is such a great way to get outdoors and get some exercise. Oh and make sure to bring some water to stay hydrated! Water bottles that keep things cold are great for hiking, like this one!

HERE IS MY LIST OF TEN ACTIVITIES:

1. Have a picnic: Honestly, I loooove picnics! They’re so fun and enjoyable. Not only can you picnic anywhere {a local park, the beach, your backyard, or even your front lawn!}, but it’s the perfect excuse to gather all your favorite snacks and drinks {wine and cheese please!} and spend some quality time with friends or family outside. Snag yourself a cute picnic basket and a nice blanket and you’re picnic ready!

2. Go to the beach: Many beaches are open and are enacting safe social distancing measures. Keeping six feet apart on the beach is very doable! Vitamin D is so good for you and the ocean is so therapeutic, so grab your beach bag, sun hat, some sunscreen, and enjoy that sunshine!

3. Hiking: Again, this is a public activity but can still be done super safely. A lot of state park hiking trails are open with requirements of keeping a safe distance from others. So get online and check out your local hikes and

4. Backyard Campout: If any of you guys are missing going camping this year, don’t fret, your backyard is your new campground!

If you don’t already have a tent, you can order some pretty reasonably priced ones online, like this one here. Camping is another super fun way to spend time with family and friends. Augustine has been talking nonstop about going camping with Matthew so I’m looking forward to them planning something in our backyard! Plus, if he doesn’t love it, he can always finish the night off in his own room!

5. Summer cooking: While I do love baking bread, I think it’s time for some more summery meals. Summertime cooking can be so fun, try things the kids will like, like homemade popsicles, slushies, lemonade, or even ice cream! While there are ways to

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make ice cream without one, I think investing in an ice cream maker is so worth it. I got mine last summer and used it all the time!

6. Start a garden: For all the tips on starting a garden, check out my past blog post here!

It’s so great to have some fresh produce right in your backyard and can be a simple but fun activity to start doing! We’ve been harvesting lots of kale lately and our tomatoes are almost getting ready to pick, too!

7. Revamp your home: It’s time for some summer decor! Redecorating and rearranging your home really feels sooo nice and gives you a fresh start. I recently talked about summer decor in another post, check it out here!

8. Drive-in movie theater: Some of us may not have a drive-in movie theater nearby, but if you do, it seems like a perfect way for a summer movie night outside of the house while still keeping safe. Doesn’t it feel so fun and old-fashioned, too?? If a drive-in movie theater isn’t close to you, a dedicated movie night during summer is still just as fun. You could also get a projector and display a

movie on your wall, inside or outside, for more of a movie theater effect!!

9. Have a bonfire or campfire: This ties into previously mentioned activities, but beach bonfires or camp fires just make me think of that classic summer. You can roast some marshmallows and make s’mores with the kids, sit around and tell funny or scary stories, and just enjoy being outside! For marshmallow roasting, you could always go with the classic stick method, but you could also invest in some store-bought roasting sticks so you can reuse them!

10. Start a summer reading list: Having some good books to read while at the beach or picnicking is really nice! It’s also just a great relaxing activity for when you have some free time! Right now I think it’d be great to read books that would help educate me on the systemic racism in our country and to further my commitment to allyship. I’ve heard so many recommendations for How To Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi. END

All Lives Can’t Matter Until Black Lives Matter

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The Age of Innocence

By Marco Mancinelli

I had been on assignment at a Detroit Montessori school for two days, and shot hundreds of photos. Some were very good, but I knew I hadn't gotten THE shot. That afternoon, as we all sat on the floor in a circle listening to a story, I bowed my head and asked God to let me see something great.

When I raised my head, this little girl leaned over to lay her head on the little boy's lap.

He very gently lifted his arm to receive her. I call this photo 'The Age of Innocence.' "

7 Habits to Help You Enjoy a Longer, Better Life

by Therese Borchard

7 Habits to Help You Enjoy a Longer, Better Life There are experts that say the best years come in the second half of life. Although there are no guarantees, there are simple things you can do today to help you benefit from the blessings that arrive with gray hair and reading glasses.

1. Reduce Stress Everyone experiences stress. Too much or long-term stress, however, can have a negative effect on your health. While no one has a stress-free life, there are steps you can take to manage your response to stress, from scheduling regular time for meditation and prayer to stepping outside to enjoy nature when you need a break. Check out some of our tips in 8 Ways to Calm Down Right Now or 10 One Minute Stress Busters.

You don’t have to adopt some crazy diet or give up all sweets. Instead, try to eat a few more vegetables and fruits. You can also eat more whole foods. A whole food is an ingredient in its natural state, one that comes in its own wrapper. While it’s even better to eat cuisine that is organic, locally grown or pesticide-free, start by shopping for groceries that require no packaging. In his book The End of Dieting, Joel Fuhrman, M.D., lists foods with the most immune-boosting and anti-cancer effects. Among them are leafy greens (spinach, kale, Swiss chard), walnuts, avocados, berries, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, beans, seeds, and apples. They not only have health benefits, they taste good too.

4. Check with Your Doctor

Our body also repairs and heals itself in sleep, staving off disease. If you’re having trouble getting a good night’s sleep, try these tips: 5 Tips to Sleep Better.

When you feel good, it’s tempting to avoid going to the doctor. No matter how you feel, though, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor for an annual check-up. The doctor will most likely check your blood pressure (high blood pressure may have no symptoms) and depending on your age and family history, the doctor may recommend certain tests or screenings, like a mammogram or a colonoscopy. Your doctor may also do blood tests to check your cholesterol or screen for hormonal imbalances. Each of these tests can help identify any potential problems. You and your doctor can then determine the next steps needed to treat anything that comes up.

3. Eat Better

5. Keep Moving

2. Sleep Well During sleep our body and brain work to support brain function and maintain physical health. During REM, or the Rapid Eye Movement phase of the sleep cycle, our brain files memories and learned information so that we can better access them when we’re awake. This also forms new pathways that improve cognitive function.

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Back in 400 B.C. Hippocrates extolled the benefits of physical activity. Now, new research from McMaster University found the same. Exercise lowers blood pressure, regulates hormone levels, controls our weight, strengthens our bones and muscles, reduces our risk for cancers, and improves mood. Some research also says it has the power to keep us young. Physical activity— including exercises to enhance flexibility, strength, and balance along with aerobic movement—slows aging on a cellular level.

You don’t have to take up running marathons. Just work more movement into your day. Try these 5 Easy Ways to Exercise More.

Simply said, we are better together. A paper published in the American Journal of Public Health identified high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, disability, cognitive decline, and depression among the conditions affected by loneliness, which is more rampant than you think. According to Cigna’s U.S. Loneliness Index, nearly half of Americans report sometimes or always feel alone. Steps to build a social network include getting involved with your church, joining a cause, volunteering for an organization, attending civic association meetings, creating or finding a Meetup group, participating on online forums, checking out a support group, or trying a weekend retreat or seminar. END

6. Do Something You Love A critical habit of aging gracefully is filling your day with joy. What makes you jump out of bed in the morning? Where is your unique signature or contribution to life? If you want to lengthen your life, aim for a state of “flow,” a single-mindedness that harnesses all emotions into one action and produces a kind of rapture. Defined by psychologist Mihály Csíkszentmihályi, flow happens when all senses are so focused on an activity that a person becomes oblivious to his environment. It’s different from leisure (which is also important) in that it involves an element of challenge, requiring certain skills. Flow provides a cerebral vacation from the stressors of life. For some people, it might be running, and for others it might be jigsaw puzzles. Only you kow what will bring you so much joy that you easily lose track of time while you’re doing it.

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30 Coconut Oil Uses for Beauty

By Popsugar And Kristi Kellogg

As Seen in Allure Magazine, 2017

If ever there were a beauty cure-all, it's coconut oil. Uses for beauty abound inside each jar of the sweet-smelling oil. This beauty staple has a long shelf life and a number of health benefits. It's a jack-of-all-trades people have discovered many uses for: breath freshener, makeup brush cleaner, hair mask, homemade lip scrub, and much more. You can use it for everything from healing scars to moisturizing dry knees.

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30 Coconut Oil Uses for Beauty Really, what can't coconut oil do? The answer: mattify (and it took us a minute to come up with that one). Celebrities like Emma Stone count it among their favorite natural ingredients, and you should, too.

Here, we've assembled 30 ways to incorporate it into your daily routine, sticking to coconut oil uses for beauty and health in particular. After you read this list, you'll definitely want to head to your local grocery store, pick up a jar, and allow this list to help you get creative with coconuts.

1. Makeup Remover: Even the most resistant waterproof mascara doesn't stand a chance against coconut oil. Apply it directly to the face as an oil cleanser, or let it sit on your skin with a cotton pad. Makeup will melt away.

2. Breath Freshener: Coconut oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Gargling for 20 minutes with a spoonful of oil (AKA oil pulling) can help clear up germs in the mouth, leading to fresher breath, whiter teeth, and healthier gums.

3. Lice Remedy: Start this all-natural lice treatment with a rinse of apple cider vinegar.

Once the vinegar has dried, apply coconut oil to the entire head and let it sit for 12 to 24 hours. Brush through hair with a fine comb, then shampoo.

4. Body Moisturizer: Sweet-smelling coconut oil is rich in fatty acids, making it an effective moisturizer, and it absorbs quickly,

explains cosmetic chemist Ni'Kita Wilson.

That's really key, because it means that the oil makes your skin look more glowy than lotion-y — which is why it's a favorite of models like Frida Gustavsson, who has worked with Dior, Chanel, and Valentino. "It makes your skin soft and radiant," she told Allure.

5. Face Moisturizer: Just as you can use it on your body, you can use coconut oil on your face to moisturize your skin. It's particularly effective as a primer to soften the skin before applying makeup. It'll give you a glowy, dewy look after you apply your foundation.

6. Makeup Brush Cleaner: Cleaning your makeup brushes should be a monthly ritual.

You can use a DIY cleanser that's two parts antibacterial soap and one part coconut oil.

7. Lip Balm: Coconut oil is the ideal remedy for chapped lips especially because it's semisolid at room temperature. Pack a bit in a miniature jar and smooth over lips throughout the day.

8. Tinted Lip Gloss: Take your coconut oil lip balm to the next level by turning it into tinted gloss. It's as simple as you might imagine: mix up coconut oil with bits of an old lipstick, or combine coconut oil with a berry-flavored Koolaid or Emergen-C packet.

9. Undereye Cream: Don't want to spend the extra money on eye cream? Use a dab of

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coconut oil on undereye bags and fine lines.

It's light enough for the most delicate skin on your face.

10. Body Scrub: Mix half a cup of coconut oil with a handful of coarse salt or sugar to create an exfoliator. The moisturizing oil will last long after the grains have melted away.

11. Lip Scrub: Combine one tablespoon of coconut oil with two tablespoons of brown sugar and one tablespoon of honey. Mix it all together and you've got a delicious DIY lip scrub!

12. Massage Oil: Warm coconut oil in the microwave and add a few drops of an essential oil, like lavender or peppermint, for a soothing massage mix.

13. Whitening Toothpaste: Run out of toothpaste? Grab the closest jar of coconut oil and add baking soda for a quick fix.

Everyone will wonder how you got such a white smile.

14. Shaving Cream: Who said shaving cream has to lather? Use coconut oil and shea butter as a base to get a closer shave that leaves legs smooth instead of dried out.

To create your own coconut oil shaving cream from scratch, try this DIY shavecream recipe. from Popsugar. It's so easy.

Grate a block of shea butter soap until you get 3/4 of a cup of shavings. These shavings will be the base of the shaving cream. From there, add two tablespoons of coconut oil and 1/4 of a cup of witch hazel. Bring it all to a boil. The soap should melt in about five minutes. Once the mixture is entirely melted, add in 1/4 of a cup of aloe vera gel (for its healing properties) and a few drops of essential oil for an amazingly sweet smell 15. Dandruff Treatment: Dandruff and dry scalp go hand in hand. To send moisture right to the roots with a nightly coconut oil treatment. Just apply lightly to roots and massage in, which will also stimulate hair growth.

16. Body Oil: Why purchase a separate body oil when you can keep coconut oil near the bath? Just slather it on wet skin after the shower, then pat dry. You'll smell like a beach vacation all day. Plus, it has a natural SPF 4.

17. Itch Relief: Burns, bug bites, and bruises can all be soothed with a topical balm of coconut oil.

18. Deep Conditioner: You can use hot coconut oil as a pre-shampoo treatment to soothe dry hair before you shampoo and condition. Leave in for at least an hour for an allover moisturizing treatment.

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30 Coconut Oil Uses for Beauty 19. Night Cream: Another one of our favorite coconut oil beauty uses is a night cream. Apply coconut oil to your face at night for maximum moisturizing benefits.

The antioxidants are great for smoothing fine lines and wrinkles while you sleep and let it really soak in.

antibacterial properties that make coconut oil a solid breath freshener also make it a good would salve more minor scrapes and cuts.

20. Leave-in Conditioner: Hydrate dry hair by using coconut oil as a leave-in conditioner. Apply a small amount to wet strands to seal in moisture.

21. Frizz Tamer: Flyaways be gone with this smoothing treatment. Just rub a dime-size amount in your hands and smooth from midshaft to ends for frizz-free style that's high on shine.

22. Deodorant: Yes, you can make your own natural deodorant at home (and it works).

Mix coconut oil with arrowroot powder, cornstarch, baking soda, and a scented oil for a DIY odor fix.

23. Eczema Relief: A recent study even suggests that virgin coconut oil can soothe eczema better than mineral oil. Coconut oil can reduce inflammation and relieve itching when you apply it to affected areas.

24. Cuticle Oil: Got cracked cuticles?

Another one of the beauty uses for coconut oil is cuticle oil. Remedy peeling skin with a coconut oil balm right at the base of nails. It can also help your manicure last longer.

25. Wound Salve: The same antifungal and

26. Stretch Mark Cream: Expectant moms should keep a jar of coconut oil nearby to help ward off stretch marks, but anyone can use this as a topical treatment for scars.

While the oil won't fade any marks, it can help prevent dark spots and blisters from forming.

27. Chest Rub: Combat congestion, sinus headaches and stuffy noses with a DIY chest rub made from (you guessed it) coconut oil.

Actress and Food Network star Ayesha Curry shares this recipe in her latest book: Combine two tablespoons of coconut oil with five drops of eucalyptus oil and three drops of peppermint oil. Stir them together and you're good to go! To apply, rub a bit between your hands to warm it up and then apply it to your chest, hands, nose, and even feet to feel better in no time.

28. Cold Sore Treatment: Coconut oil also helps to stop the pain and itching of a cold

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sore. It also stops the underlying virus from reproducing on your lips, which can lead to even more cold sores spreading out from the original sore.

29. Eyelash Growth Serum: Thanks to the many fatty acids found in coconut oil, it makes for an excellent base for creating a DIY eyelash growth serum. The coconut oil can help to stimulate growth and lead to longer lashes. Combine a tablespoon of coconut oil with one drop of lemon essential oil and one drop of lavender oil. Apply the mixture to your lash line each night with a Q-tip and dab away any excess moisture with a tissue.

30. Hair Protectant: Headed into the or ocean? Protect the fragile ends of your hair from sun and chlorine by coating them with coconut oil before getting it wet. The added bonus to this hack? Your hair will dry smooth instead of tangled. END

8 Clever Moves When You Have $1,000 in the Bank

By Christy Rakoczy

Saving up $1,000 in your checking account is a big milestone. But leaving the money in checking likely doesn't make much sense since most checking accounts pay minimal or no interest.

Once you've worked hard to amass $1,000, you want to put your money to work for you. Here are eight money moves you can make to get the most bang for your buck and get on the path towards a bright financial future.

1. Invest in Apple or Amazon for just $1 Once you've built up your savings, one important next step is to come up with an investing strategy. Even if you decide not to invest a lot of money, don't let that stop you — you can start investing with just $1.

Stash is a great place for beginning investors to get started. You can buy fractional shares (partial shares) in companies that are household names like Apple, Google, and Amazon. Normally a single share of these companies would cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, but you only need $1 to get started with Stash.

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8 Clever Moves When You Have $1,000 in the Bank

If you're thinking about saving for retirement, you can start investing in an IRA and enjoy the tax benefits that come with retirement accounts. Stash also offers all kinds of tools and guides to help you along the way.

$8 per month. Shop for coverage today with Bestow so you can help protect your family.

For a limited time Stash will give you $5 to invest when you make your first investment.*

Saving $1,000 is a great milestone, but you don't want to stop there. One of the fastest ways to grow your savings even more is to look at ways to cut your expenses. One monthly bill that millions of American overpay: car insurance. In just a few minutes, you can check to make sure you're not overpaying on your current premium.

Sign up for Stash now 2. Leave your family up to $1,000,000 (starting at just $8 a month) Purchasing a life insurance policy is a great way to invest in your family's future and if you have at least $1,000 saved, you can easily afford a policy.

Life insurance is an essential purchase if you currently have anyone who depends on you or if you plan to have a family in the future.

By getting insurance, you can help make sure your family doesn't suffer financially if something happens to you. A policy could help you make sure your spouse can pay off your mortgage, your kids can pay for college, or your aging parents can get help from a professional caregiver if you aren't there to assist them.

Get a quote from Bestow now 3. Save up to $610 on car insurance

It's easy to search and compare quotes with Provide Insurance. Think of it as Kayak, but for car insurance.

They can help match you to insurance carriers and regional agencies to help you save on your car insurance. Provide can save drivers up to $610 per year compared to their current insurance premiums.

It takes less than 5 minutes to fill out the form and you’ll receive a list of matches that show you online, email, and potentially phone quotes.

Click here to get started Buying life insurance doesn't have to be difficult. Bestow allows you to apply for a policy online in just five minutes. You won't need to worry about a doctor's visit or doing tons of paperwork, and policies start at just

4. Budget better and trim up to $720 from your bills Even if you're disciplined about saving,

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you've probably had months where you looked at your bank balance and wondered where your paycheck went. A budgeting app like Truebill can help you take control of your money — spend intentionally on the things you value and stop throwing money away on unimportant things.

Once you have a complete picture of your finances, it's easy to see ways to save. And Truebill can help make those potential savings a reality. Their expert negotiators can call the cable company and phone company to help lower your bills. They'll also help you cancel unwanted subscriptions and put that money back in your bank account where it belongs.

Truebill has already helped save its members over $50,000,000 on their bills without much time and effort.

Download Truebill now 5. Turn a photo of your grocery receipt into an Amazon gift card Even if you're on a tight budget, what’s one expense that won't go away? Your grocery bill.

BONUS: You'll get 2,000 points bonus when you enter this referral code: BUZZ before you scan your first receipt.

Sign up for Fetch today

6. Turn your $1,000 into $2,000 without even thinking about it Wouldn't it be nice to double your savings?

Having some extra money in your emergency fund is a good feeling.

If you need a little boost for your savings, consider Digit. It's like your smart financial assistant, dedicated to helping you achieve your financial goals. Just tell Digit what your goal is — maybe it's paying off credit card debt, saving for a vacation, or building that emergency fund — then let their sophisticated algorithms do the rest.

Digit will analyze your spending habits then automatically move the perfect amount to your secure Digit account. You'll start saving without even thinking about it or changing your lifestyle.

Digit has already helped its users save over $2.5 billion dollars!

Now you can get rewarded for your grocery bills with an app that lets you earn gift cards from pictures of your grocery receipts.

Sign up for Digit here

All you need is your phone and the Fetch app. After you're done shopping, just snap a photo of your receipt.Your photo earns points. Then you can redeem those points for gift cards at popular stores like Amazon, Target, and Home Depot.

Make sure you're keeping that $1,000 somewhere that will reward you for your money. If you're using a traditional bank account, you might not only be missing out on rewards, you're probably paying unnecessary fees.

7. Get paid $100 to ditch your debit card

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8 Clever Moves When You Have $1,000 in the Bank

With an Aspiration Spend & Save account, you’ll get $100 for opening a new debit card - just open an account, use your Aspiration debit card to make at least $1,000 in purchases within 60 days and you’ll get $100!

Wikibuy is free to use and will never show you ads. Add Wikibuy today and stop overpaying!

Get Wikibuy now. END

You’ll also be eligible for up to 10% cash back on purchases and up to 1.00% APY on your balance - that's 14x the national average interest rate.³ Not to mention unlimited fee-free withdrawals at over 55,000 ATMs and best of all there’s no minimum credit score!

Sign up with Aspiration 8. Stop overpaying when you shop online

Shopping online has its perks. It's super convenient, but it can be time consuming to find the best deals. Instead of hunting for coupon codes (that don't always work!) and opening tons of browser tabs comparing prices, you can try Wikibuy.

Wikibuy makes saving money effortless. Just add Wikibuy to your browser and when you check out, Wikibuy will automatically add the best coupon code in their extensive database to help you save cash. And before you check out at favorite stores like Amazon, Target, Home Depot, and Best Buy, Wikibuy will notify you with a friendly pop-up if the item you're buying is available cheaper somewhere else.

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This program allows on-the-rise artists/musicians and promoters to showcase their work/talent to over 750,000 readers within our magazine and on our social media platforms for only $25.00* Space is reserved for 10 individuals per issue, so contact us today and get your work in front of thousands of readers for less than 41â‚ľ per day

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Heaven Is Real My Friends

By Amy Powell Nemeth

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Heaven is Real My Friends

Heaven is real my friend!

There are people who say heaven isn't real, but that’s a lie by the father of all lies. Satan knows firsthand the majesty, the splendor of heaven and certainly doesn't want any of us to get to enjoy it. He's bitter toward God, bitter toward God's people and bitter about heaven.

Satan tries to keep us focused on our problems so we forget about God’s promises while living shallow, earth-binding lives. The devil wants us to focus on the temporary and lose sight of the eternal, because we become dangerous to his plans when we have eternity in our sight. Alone on the island of Patmos, God allowed John to see a door. From behind the door, he heard a voice saying, "Come up here." Come see what heaven's like. Are you having a bad day, John? Maybe a bad month? Come up here and look at things from heaven's perspective.

Our home is with our Father in heaven. We’ll have a powerful new body! There's no sickness, no sadness, no death. You're talking and laughing. Then you see someone approaching. It's Jesus Himself walking toward you with a smile on His face. You fall down to your knees, but He pulls you up and holds you close. He whispers to you, "Welcome home."

Amazingly the old things of earth are gone and everything is new. You feel God's love and His peace, and you know that every trial, every heartache, every pain we experienced on earth was worth it. We need to keep heaven on our minds. Jesus went to the cross to offer salvation to all, but many purchased tickets will never be picked up and used.

Think of heaven today. Speak of heaven today. Live for heaven today. END

Suddenly, John found himself in heaven, peering into paradise. He began to experience the sounds, the sights, the beauty of heaven.

Jesus said that heaven was a real place being prepared for all of us to live in. He even said if it wasn't true, He would tell us.

We're going to walk on those streets of gold one day. We're going to worship the presence of Jesus. It's waiting for us. This world isn't our final destination. It isn't our true home.

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‘My Time’ and Company

GREGORY D

(Lansing, MI) – June 5, 2020 – Gospel Artist Gregory D and Company have been inspiring audiences for years with their soul-shaking songs. The Michigan-based ensemble has been singing God’s praises since 2012, ministering behind Gospel artists such as Bryan Poppin and sharing the stage with Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Lee Williams, Wess Morgan, Alexis Spight, Clifton Ross, III and Willie Moore, Jr. Now the dynamic group is not only wowing audiences but radio as well with their brand new single entitled, “My Time”. A collaborative effort between the artist’s company, Gregory D Productions, LLC, and Indie Blu Music, “My Time”, an up-tempo, praise and worship song, will officially release to digital and streaming platforms on June 5, 2020.

The six-time Rhythm of Gospel Award Nominees and two-time Voices of Gospel Music Award Nominees have been soaring up the Billboard Top Gospel Songs Chart, recently breaking into the Top 50. The new track is much-needed, musical encouragement for those in the process of waiting on their change to come. A spirited song, “My Time” reminds the believer to hold on to the promises of God while merging the exciting sounds of Gospel and the power of praise and worship. Penned and vocal-produced by the artist himself with Larry Trice, III, sitting in the producer’s chair, the song showcases the exceptional talents of the dynamic leader and his group.

In sharing his thoughts about “My Time”, Gregory D says, “I wrote this song at a time when I was discouraged, and I felt there was no room for me in this industry. Many of us have been waiting and believing God for

something. My assignment is to encourage you and let you know that even with things the way they are in this world, it’s STILL your time.”

An ordained elder, Gregory D, has been surrounded by Gospel music his entire life.

Influenced by parents who were gifted in music, he honed his skills and as a vocalist, starting at the age of five, and as an instrumentalist, learning the keyboard, drums, organ and bass. By the age of 17, he began writing songs. In his role as church choir director, he started penning songs for his choir. But it wasn’t until the passing of his mother that his music ministry truly began.

“When my mother died on Mother’s Day in 2012, I believe my ministry was birthed at that moment,” recalls Gregory. “At the time of her death, I was a part of a Gospel rap group named ‘L.I.V. Music Group’ where I was a lyricist, hook/chorus writer, singer and leader. The anointing was on us and each time we ministered God was there.” Even with their success, he knew the Lord had something else for him. That was the moment that Gregory D and Company was born.

Since the ensemble’s first release in 2014, a song entitled “He’s Good”, other releases followed including tracks like “More Than a Conqueror” in 2016, “I Am a Praiser” in 2017 and their first EP entitled “The Worship Trio”, also in 2017. Their next full project is slated to drop at the end of 2020. They have been celebrated with nominations including Rhythm of Gospel Awards for Contemporary CD of the Year, Praise and Worship CD of

41 | Blessed Magazine

Gregory D and Company ‘My Time’

the Year and Rhythm of Gospel CD of the Year and a nomination for a Kingdom Image Award for Best Group Performance. In addition, Gregory D and Company have been nominated for Voices of Gospel Music Award Nominations for VOGMA Artist of the Year and Contemporary Artist of the Year. They have also made an appearance on The Dorinda Show with the legendary Clark Sister, Dorinda Clark-Cole, and on Rejoice Musical Soulfood with Cedric Bailey.

To connect with Gregory D and Company, log on to Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

For more information about the group, check out their website at www.GregoryDMusic.com.

JESUS IS REAL 42 | Blessed Magazine

Ways to Support Your Black Colleagues Right Now

By Caitlin Abber

Ways to Support Your Black Colleagues Right Now

Since the protests over the murder of George Floyd, the national discussion over race in America reaches a very necessary and long overdue tipping point. Many black people still have to show up every day at work. And Blessed Magazine found this article and wanted to share it with our readers. This company, M. M. LaFleur, are dedicated to making sure their black employees know they stand with them.

For Companies...

What are some strategies for addressing racism, both internally and at the national level, that any company, regardless of size or corporate culture, can adopt?

The most impactful strategies are assessment and strategic planning to incorporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into their organizational DNA. Once a DEI assessment is completed—which can include looking at past DEI strategies, conducting anonymous diversity surveys and focus groups, as well as other methodologies— companies can commit to ongoing education about bias, racism, and other systemic inequalities that specifically support their organizational cultures. The organizations that do this in a strategic way and on an ongoing basis find themselves better prepared when racial injustice and other diversity-related incidents occur externally that impact their staff internally.

How can companies best support Black

employees and their mental health during this time?

Black employees want to be acknowledged, supported, and valued. Companies need to recognize that at this time, Black employees are experiencing trauma on multiple levels.

The protests in response to the recent killings of Black people by the police should not be viewed in a silo. This is a tipping point in America, based on years of experiencing the effects of systemic and institutionalized racism.

Black employees want companies to acknowledge that they are in pain and to provide them with as much support as they can. It should be noted that Black employees are not a homogenous group, as we all have different experiences and needs, but if your company has a diversity committee, affinity group, or an employee resource group, they can be convened to assess how to best support Black employees at this time.

Managers should also take the time to individually reach out to Black employees to say, “I know this is a challenging time. Let me know what support you might need.”

Other supportive actions might be reminding Black employees of the availability of the company’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health support, offering additional days off, and offering support with work-related duties or tasks.

What do you think are the biggest missteps

44 | Blessed Magazine

companies make when it comes to acknowledging or not acknowledging systemic racism, both internally and at the national level?

I think the biggest misstep is that companies don’t acknowledge it. In the work that my partner Wendy Amengual Wark and I do with organizations, we have found that many companies don’t prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and anti-racism education until there is an internal or external incident or crisis. Effective DEI work is prioritized and woven into the culture of the organization.

Should there be a continuous, open dialogue surrounding minority/marginalized groups and their issues within the workplace? Would the responsibility to have this dialogue fall on these groups to initiate or their white counterparts?

Yes! Companies should not think that one statement, webinar, or training is the end of their obligation. In the work that we do as diversity consultants, my partner and I recommend sustainable DEI strategies and ongoing support, which can include a myriad of things, including training, consultation on DEI and EEO issues, DEI Council formation and Support, etc, and is done collaboratively with feedback and participation from people at all levels of the organization.

Black people are experiencing trauma, grief, fear, anger, and a host of other emotions.

People of all races should be educating themselves about anti-black racism and actively engaging to become anti-racists and allies. What Black people need right now are allies and advocates.

What are some things people might think are helpful that are actually harmful?

What is not helpful is asking or expecting Black people to teach you about racism. The first part of the work of becoming anti-racist is to educate yourself rather than placing that additional burden on Black people or other marginalized groups.

It can also be harmful to say “I know how you feel” or to try to equate a personal experience you may have had with death or trauma to what is being experienced right now by Black people. When you try to equate your experiences to theirs, it can make Black people feel as if they have been silenced and not heard. The best thing that you can do is to learn and listen.

For Coworkers...

What are some ways people of all races can support their Black colleagues right now?

Provide support to Black colleagues by acknowledging and empathizing with them.

45 | Blessed Magazine

Ways to Support Your Black Colleagues Right Now

Another thing that can be harmful is to be overly communicative and empathetic, because this can present a greater burden on your Black colleagues. While empathy is important, what is of the utmost importance is giving your Black colleagues the space to express what they’re feeling right now or to say nothing at all.

As a white woman who is deeply saddened by systemic racism and seeing emotions specifically heightened during this time, is it okay to reach out to a fellow Black coworker who you think is absolutely amazing?

Reaching out to express empathy and/or allyship is encouraged; however, if you’ve never reached out before (or even if you have), you should be reaching out at this time with the well-being of the Black employee in mind, not your own. White people should not expect kudos or acknowledgment for their outreach, outrage, or advocacy.

And if you are going to reach out at this time, be authentic and genuine. Your outreach should not require an additional lift from the Black person you are reaching out to. END Cait lin Abber is the Brand Editor at M.M. LaFleu r, and an award-winning writer and content creator. Over the last decade she has held senior editorial positions at MTV, Women's Health, Public Radio International, and Bustle, and has bylines at InStyle and OprahMag.com

46 | Blessed Magazine

By Karolyn Dekker

Helping Someone in the Midst of Coronavirus Abuse If you use social media, you’ve likely seen memes highlighting the growing tension in families as they adjust to being together 24/7 during COVID-19. Some provoke laughter, or at least a smile—but to many, those memes aren’t funny. A work-day used to be a reprieve for them, the only opportunity to enjoy momentary freedom. With stay-at-home orders, there’s no relief under an abuser’s watchful eye.

Take, for example, Sharon (name changed), whose husband pretended to have the coronavirus so he could enjoy two weeks off and monitor her activities. Sharon was already close to her breaking point with Jerry’s micromanagement of her life, as he insisted that nothing be left out—not a dish in the sink, a comb on the bathroom countertop, or a toy on the floor. He wanted the house as perfect as an unused hotel room, ignoring that their house was anything but unused.

47 | Blessed Magazine

Helping Someone in the Midst of Coronavirus Abuse

While working from home, Sharon homeschooled her daughter and watched a neighbor’s child whose daycare center had closed. Jerry’s angry outbursts needed little provocation. Finding a bottle out of place or seeing Sharon put the baby down for a nap before starting the dishes gave him justification to berate, “You’re a terrible housekeeper. You need me to teach you how to clean and make you a better person. How can you be so stupid?”

Sharon’s not alone. Domestic violence calls have been on the rise worldwide since the shutdowns began. In some areas, the calls for help decreased, but the reports of domestic violence resulting in shootings and homicides increased. This means that many were unable to call for help. The result was deadly.

Most of us take our freedom for granted, but imagine living with someone who constantly monitors your computer usage and checks your web history. An abuser will often supervise calls, texts, or emails, and use a GPS to check whereabouts. Being at home all day severely restricts any attempts to communicate with outsiders. Not having personal freedom means a lack of ability to access critical resources, like a phone to call 911 or the Domestic Violence Hotline.

Jesus commands us to love our neighbor (Matt. 22:39). What should that look like if you know that your neighbor is living under abusive circumstances? The National

Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) provides suggestions regarding how you can support someone stuck in a toxic situation. Here are some ways you can help someone now in the midst of coronavirus abuse: 1. Check on the Victim's Safety

For example, find out their preferred method of connecting. With an abuser close by, a text may not be a safe way to check on the victim’s safety. A phone is easily grabbed, and all privacy lost. Could there be another platform or app? Would instant messaging work? Could you chat during a shared online game when the perpetrator would be less suspicious? Always let the other person choose the method of communication and remember—what works today may not work tomorrow. Touch base frequently.

2. Stay in Touch Once a method of communication is established, be intentional about staying in touch. Decide on critical signals to call for help. For example, choose a code word or phrase to use when there’s a need for a visit from a family member to diffuse a situation, or for the police to stop by. Even if you never have to resort to using these means, having a plan will provide more security for your friend. Moral support goes a long way.

The thought of helping an abused person can feel scary and overwhelming, but the truth is,

48 | Blessed Magazine

just being there is really all they need from you. They’re not looking for you to make decisions. Sometimes just the simple act of listening and believing what a person says is what’s needed.

pain and loneliness. She knows that she did the right thing, but feels she has a long, lonely road ahead of her.

3. Help Develop a Safety Plan

Do not neglect the importance of prayer.

Each situation is unique. Pray for God’s clear leading both for you as you seek to minister to your hurting neighbor, and for her to find relief. It may not be “our” problem, but once we’re aware, it’s our responsibility to be part of the solution as God leads. As Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “The ultimate tragedy is not the oppression and cruelty by the bad people, but the silence over that by the good people.” Abuse is a form of oppression. God does not forsake the oppressed, neither should we. “The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble” (Ps. 9:9). Pray for all the Sharons out there to find their stronghold in Him. END

Another way to support your neighbor is to help develop a safety plan. Start by asking questions to prepare for when it may be time to leave. How can they safely escape the house? Do they have a packed bag ready to go? Do they have a hotline number available? Do they know how to find an available shelter? You can help by contacting family members who might be willing to let your neighbor stay with them. Be that available person who can make phone calls outside the earshot of the abuser to locate pertinent resources on your friend’s behalf.

Hotlines welcome calls from concerned friends and neighbors. Call to learn more before needing urgent help.

4. Rely on Prayer

Thankfully, Sharon had a supportive Christian neighbor and a support group.

When Jerry started verbalizing her inadequacies again and tried to hold a wet rag over her nose and mouth, she feared that his assaults were escalating. Recently he had said, “It’s a good thing I broke up with my last girlfriend, because if we’d stayed together, I probably would’ve killed her.” He later boasted, “I’ve never been arrested or put into jail for anything. My record’s clean.

But if I ever do anything that lands me in jail, I’ll make sure it’s worth it!” Fearing for her ultimate safety and mental health, she finally left. Yet, being in a shelter and having to maintain social distancing multiplies the 49 | Blessed Magazine

Top 10 Picks for Secluded Beaches Across the US

by Kitty Bean Yancey

Top 10 Picks for Secluded Beaches Across the US These 10 beaches are usually wide-open and uncrowded enough to offer lots of room between sunbathers — always idyllic but particularly appealing in the COVID-19 era when social distancing is crucial. Just be sure to check for COVID-related closures and news and local rules, including quarantine requirements if you're from out of state, before you go.

Anna Maria Island, Fla. Hit the reset button on this peaceful, 7- mile- long barrier island an hour's drive southwest of Tampa.

Stroll wide swathes of talcum-powder sand in a Gulf Coast hidden gem with that hard-to-find “Old Florida” feel and a refreshing lack of high-rise condos. Savor rosy-hued sunsets that often attract newlywed couples posing for photographers. Stay in a small, family-owned oceanfront inn.

Del Monte Beach, Calif.

Fans of Big Little Lies will enjoy walking or jogging to the sound of crashing waves on the dramatic, romantic Monterey Peninsula coastline, just as the characters in the TV series did. South of Houghton M. Roberts Beach in Monterey, Del Monte is popular with locals, who also enjoy the boardwalk path through the dunes. Whale watching is an attraction throughout the year.

Kauapea Beach, Hawaii Nicknamed “Secret Beach,” this palm tree- lined strand on the north coast of Kauai near Kilauea is accessible via a brief hike. You'll be rewarded with sparsely occupied stretches of sands, ebony lava rocks, tidal pools and even a waterfall. Some shed their bathing suits here, but if that's not your thing, there's plenty of room to unwind fully suited, enjoying your own slice of paradise.

52 | Blessed Magazine

Pawleys Island, S.C. The skinny barrier island boasting wide, serene sands is low-key compared with better-known Myrtle Beach 25 miles to the north. Connected to the mainland by two small causeways, Pawleys is nicknamed “arrogantly shabby” for its unpretentious oceanfront houses that can be rented for multigenerational getaways. For centuries, the area has appealed to low-key Southern gentry, including former vice president Al Gore. Summer residents and day-trippers get in their 10,000 steps striding up and down four miles of sand backed by dunes and sea oats. Take home a locally made rope hammock.

Padre Island National Seashore, Texas If you avoid spring break, when college students flock here, you'll find plenty of space to lounge in your beach chair on what's billed as the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world — encompassing 70 miles of Texas coastline. Enjoy camping and kayaking in the saltwater Laguna Madre or the chance to spot nearly 400 bird species.

Schoolhouse Beach, Wis. Drive a car or RV onto a ferry at the tip of Door County in tiny Northport, about 200 miles northeast of Milwaukee, for the half- hour ride to Washington Island. Then marvel at one of the world's rare smooth limestone-pebble beaches. Snap photos of the gray- hued expanse and blue waters of Lake Michigan, make piles of glacier-buffed stones (but it's illegal to take one home) or take a dip in the crystal-clear water.

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Top 10 Picks for Secluded Beaches Across the US

Montauk Point State Park, N.Y. Worth the trek to the tip of Long Island, the easternmost point of New York State has the oldest lighthouse in the state (dating back to 1792), rocky beaches with postcard-perfect views of the Atlantic and Block Island Sound and plenty of room to spread your beach blanket on the park's 862 acres.

Surf fishing is popular, as is watching the seals that play and sun on rocks.

Bandon State Natural Area, Ore. Whimsical rock formations with names like Wizard's Hat and Cat and Kittens jut out of icy waters in this coastal gem that's less well known than other Oregon beaches. A four- hour drive southwest of Portland, it boasts crashing waves, towering bluffs and abundant wildlife. View it all from the privacy of your vehicle on Bandon's Beach Loop Drive.

Carova Beach, N.C. You'll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to travel unpaved roads and cruise on unspoiled beach here, where wild mustangs roam. The 11- mile- long northern tip of the Outer Banks, just south of the Virginia border, is a peninsula that's also home to the Currituck National Wildlife Refuge. It's a magnet for bird-watchers, and where endangered sea turtles find refuge. Currituck also has ramp access for beach wheelchairs, which can be rented in the area.

54 | Blessed Magazine

Roque Bluffs State Park, Maine Diverse attractions distinguish this quiet coastal destination about 70 miles north of Bar Harbor.

Swim in the Atlantic from a half- mile- long pebbly beach or in the warmer fresh water of Simpson Pond. Catch brown trout there during summer months. Hikers can stride miles of trails and snack on wild blueberries from local farms.

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“Mystery” Man with the Heart of an Angel

By Marie Stancato

“Mystery” Man with the Heart of an Angel

In my first conscious moment after the accident, I knew it was bad news. Would I even survive? At age twenty, I hoped to do a whole lot more living before I checked out.

I had been living life to the fullest over the weekend in San Diego. Along with my cousins, I took in the sights, shopped, sunbathed on the beach, and visited with my aunt. We weren’t the drinking, carousing kind, but too much of even wholesome fun can get you in trouble. After twenty-four hours with no sleep, I was in no condition to start driving home to Phoenix, Arizona.

At the hospital, doctors were surprised that I had made it. My neck was broken in three places. “If she lives, she’ll be paralyzed from the neck down,” one doctor told my parents.

I required a complicated procedure to restore my neck to proper position. During a long recovery period, I would have to remain immobile. It would be some time before I could expect to return to normal, if ever.

In addition to my grim prognosis, the hospital separated me from family and friends. My parents could come to stay with me only on the weekends. How could I occupy the time?

Once I settled into a routine, I began receiving mail. When a large bouquet of yellow roses arrived, my private nurse opened the card. “Hmm, a secret admirer,” she said. In lieu of a name or signature, the sender had drawn a caricature of a man with

a pleasant face. “Do you have any idea who sent them?” the nurse asked. “Not a clue.”

For the rest of the day, my mind whirled with questions. Roses spoke of romance, but I wasn’t seriously dating anyone. Did someone in my church group have a secret crush on me? I went over the names of the guys one by one, but dismissed them all.

The following day I received a card postmarked Springerville, Arizona. Who did I know in Springerville? My mind came up empty. The message read: “Hey, drive like you’re going to the dentist.” In other words, “Slow down.” Again, the drawing served as the signature.

Three more cards arrived on the same day.

Two of them bore postmarks from two places in New Mexico and one from Arizona. The caption on a picture of the desert read, “The Desert is Alive.” Completing the thought, the sender wrote, “And so are you–ain’t you lucky.” That was my introduction to the colloquial style of the person whose identity was revealed only through the cartoon drawing.

“Did you ever date a truck driver?” my nurse asked as she examined the postmarks with a quizzical expression on her face.

Equally baffled, I said, “No. Never.”

The card arriving from Dalhart, Texas, read, “Now I ain’t much at prayin’ but like you

58 | Blessed Magazine

sho’ put a lot of people on their knees.”

When I showed my cards to my parents, my mom said, “People at church are praying for you, but I don’t think this person is from our church. Otherwise, he would be praying for you, too.”

Florida and Nebraska were soon added to the postmarks. Overseas mail from Scotland, England, and France made everyone’s eyes pop.

“At least the flowers and all the traveling say he should be able to support my daughter in style,” Dad said with a laugh. Although we had no proof, we all thought of my pen pal as a man.

The three-page letter from Scotland carried a return address from “76 Queen St., Castle Douglas, Kirkubrightshire, Scotland.” That was impressive enough even before I started to read: “Gee look it—I’m a long way from home. The rain here gets mixed up with the fog and, once in a while, you see a fish swim by five feet above the ground.”

Unless involved in an emergency, every nurse on the floor began to gather by my bedside at mail time to share in the drama as it unfolded. For me, mail time was good therapy that counteracted the pain.

Three months had gone by since my accident and I was still receiving mail. I never tired of the game. Even after I went back to work, I looked forward to coming home to find a surprise to uplift me or make me laugh.

Mail continued to arrive from various places in Kansas, Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada. The content bordered on the unconventional, but was always in good taste. It never failed to bring a smile to my face and curiosity to my mind.

One day a package came from Kansas, but this time something was different. There was a name: Dave Lefever. My mouth flew open, and I stood stunned. I knew him, but not well. His daughter Karen and I had been good friends through high school, but we had since lost touch. When I visited, I got to know Karen’s mother, but Dave was usually at work.

After six weeks in the hospital, I went home to the amazement of the doctors. A small but heavy package arrived. With the brick inside, the note read, “This fell off of my heart when I learned you were okay.”

Another card read, “Hey, I’ll probably see you Wednesday, Saturday, or Sunday—or maybe Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday. Who knows?” The familiar signature was followed by “P.S.–or Friday.” Would the mystery man finally reveal his identity?

I received no visitor, but mail kept coming.

Without even opening the box of candy, I headed to the Lefever home. “So, you’re the one,” I said.

“Guilty as charged,” Dave said with his famous grin. Learning what happened to me had stirred his compassionate nature, and he wanted to do something positive to minimize the negatives of my situation. To ensure that his mission remained a mystery, Dave did not share the secret with his wife or daughter.

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“Mystery” Man with the Heart of an Angel

How had he been able to keep the suspense going for all of those months? He wrote up several cards and letters and sent them to a friend in Kansas, who mailed them at various times from various places. Most of the other mail went by air. Working at the airport, Dave gave letters to pilots and asked them to mail them at their destination. Dave’s mission required a lot of planning and effort, but he pulled it off perfectly.

Divine inspiration continued to affect the mystery man, too. Although he was not a praying man when he began ministering to me, Dave later joined his wife on her spiritual journey. Through little acts of kindness, he blessed so many people who crossed his path, like placing a rose on the piano at church to light up the face of the pianist.

Looking back, I remember the prayers that went up for me at the time of the accident. I believe God answered those prayers by giving creative ideas to a man with the heart of an angel. At a critical time in my life, suspense, mystery, and humor made the difference between despair and hope. I still cherish the more than 50 letters I received, and I recognize the value of human effort combined with divine inspiration.

Editor’s Note: While writing this article, Esther quoted from the more than 50 cards and letters she had on hand from Dave to Marie. In addition, she frequently checked out details with Marie Stancato to insure the authenticity of the story. END 60 | Blessed Magazine

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