Unveiled Living Digital Magazine - Fall Edition Vol. 7
Unveiled Living is a ministry and digital
Unveiled Living is a ministry and digital
Unveiled Living is a ministry and digital magazine tailored to women of all ages. magazine tailored to women of all ages. magazine tailored to women of all ages. In a society that often diminishes the In a society that often diminishes the In a society that often diminishes the beauty of aging, we, as women, find beauty of aging, we, as women, find beauty of aging, we, as women, find solace in God's call to embrace a life solace in God's call to embrace a life solace in God's call to embrace a life renewed by His love, revitalized by His renewed by His love, revitalized by His renewed by His love, revitalized by His grace, and empowered with God's grace, and empowered with God's grace, and empowered with God's newfound strength as we embark on newfound strength as we embark on newfound strength as we embark on this freedom journey that He has this freedom journey that He has this freedom journey that He has entrusted to us to live by living life entrusted to us to live by living life entrusted to us to live by living life
Unveiled. Unveiled. Unveiled.
Be You.
Be Connected.
Be Free.
FALL 2023 E-MAG
Tracee L. Padilla
Editor-in-Chief
Tracee L. and Edwin Padilla
Creative Design
CONTRIBUTORS
Faith Lenee Russell
Caroline Eklund
Kellie Russell
Tricia Clark
Kathleen Knapp
Tracee Lee Padilla
Michelle A. Balts
Joy Wendling
Carmen Chase
Tiffany Thompson-Snyder
Cendrine Hosoda
Megan Jean
Fall is here.
While I'm well aware that Mother's Day isn't exactly peeking around the corner, what with the whirlwind of activities that tend to sweep us up this time of year, I couldn't resist the urge to dedicate this E-Mag to all the amazing mothers out there who give their all, and then some (because let's face it, moms are basically everyday superheroes)
As you gracefully flip through the pages of this edition, I'm most certain that you'll stumble upon moments of pure joy, deep reflection, laughter, and maybe even shed a few tears. Our writers have generously shared their experiences, woven into stories stemming from their personal journeys as moms. These narratives are here to gently remind you that, no matter where you find yourself in this season of life, there's always someone out there who can relate.
So, take a moment to be uplifted, have a laugh, and fully grasp that you're cherished more deeply than you might have ever imagined. After all, who else can handle a to-do list longer than a Wal-Mart receipt and still maintain that wonderful sense of humor?
May the Lord bless you and keep you,
Tracee Padilla
Proverbs 31:28
Not Just a Piece of Cloth
BY CAROLINE EKLUND
THIS STORY
tells how a piece of cloth helped create a family tradition.
Our mother had sent several yards of some rather “not-so-pretty” double-knit material to my sister Margi As a joke, the following Christmas she made my sister Mary Lou, my sister-in-law Karen, and me, a nightgown out of the ugly material. A year later Mary Lou decided to tear her nightgown apart and make pillows We all lived in different states Sometimes a year or two would pass before a suspicious package arrived in the mail. This tradition lasted nearly 20 years
On various holidays one of us would get creative and send everyone a special gift We never knew when or what we were going to receive The gifts, starting with the nightgowns and pillows, became picture frames, necklaces, a broch, and bookmarks! I received a package that said, “You can’t open this package unless you promise to put it on and send me a picture ” I, of course, was curious, so I promised that was a big mistake on my part It was a bikini!! We enjoyed our gift for a while, then one of us would tear it apart and create another masterpiece The bikini was torn apart immediately! An amusing letter usually accompanied the gifts, “I bought this beautiful material and made a gift for you.”
Sadly, the material dwindled down to just little scraps by Mother’s Day, 2002 In honor of this family tradition, I wrote the following journey of the “ugly material ” I dedicated it to our 86-year-old mother and my sisters
Not just a piece of cloth that was sent many years ago, by sisters and a Mother, who loved each other so.
The piece of cloth was not elegant, nor pretty, it did not claim to be.
Yet, year after year, as it traveled around, it filled their hearts with glee.
The cloth became so many things -- pillows, necklaces, bookmarks, and frames.
How can this be, one might say.
How can one piece of cloth grow from day to day.
The precious cloth is now very small, it has not...grown at all.
But what has grown is the bond between sisters...and their Mom.
No, it was not just a piece of cloth, that was drabby and dull. It was linen..it was silk...it was best of all..
NAVIGATING PARENTHOOD’S CHALLENGE
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect
Seeing your child suffer and being unable to fix it for them is one of the worst parts of motherhood Feeling impossible for causing the problem is a whole added layer of parental shame. I’ve struggled with mental health my entire life due to childhood trauma. As most parents do, I wanted better for my kids I worked hard to achieve that So, when my oldest started getting chronic headaches and stomachaches, and after all the specialist appointments determined there was nothing physically causing them, which pointed to anxiety, I was heartbroken
I thought if I protected my kids and allowed them a good childhood, they wouldn’t have to struggle with mental health like I do. One of the top causes of mental health problems is trauma, but do you know another cause? It’s living with parents who struggle with their mental health.
So, naturally, in true fashion of motherhood, I placed all the blame and shame for my child’s struggles on myself Some may say, “Well, at least you know how to help your child because you lived with it, too.” In
theory, that should be true However, I’m still learning how to help myself I went many years without the proper help, support, and tools. But now, we are working through it together.
The first thing I had to do was let go of my own shame I didn't want to gaze into my child’s eyes and behold all my shortcomings staring back at me. I wanted to look at my child in their eyes and see their beautiful soul. I had to be able to set my own junk aside and focus on their needs, which meant I had some hard work to do My beautiful child is worth it, though
I shed tears of great weight, and with them, the shame poured out from my soul. The shame of not feeling good enough for my kids. The shame of causing them hardships The shame that I wasn’t always the person they needed me to be. The fear that I might never become the person they require me to be. Although painful, facing the pain was necessary. It was healing.
I realized and accepted that I would never be perfect for them. Only Jesus is perfect, and He
stands in the gap for me with my kids. One of the most comforting verses is 2 Corinthians 12:9, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
Mom’s, Jesus gives us permission to be imperfect. In fact, we are to brag about our imperfections because they glorify Jesus even more. Let’s keep that front and center as we raise our children for God’s glory, not our own.
"How many of you carry a purse? I see hands going up everywhere. Personally, I try to avoid carrying a purse whenever possible because I'm not a fan of the extra weight it brings. But you know what? Life has a way of adding its own weight, and sometimes it's not in the form of a purse but in the form of difficulties and trials. Before we realize it, our past experiences can leave us with hurt, offenses, and deep wounds that we unknowingly carry as baggage. If we're not careful, these emotional burdens become like unwelcome companions, eager to join us in pity parties. Let's dive into this topic today on Heart Talk Vlog!"
The God of
mirac
a mother’s unforgettable journey.
by Faith l. Russell
LIFE WAS GOING GREAT IN JULY 2021.
Charlie and I were filled with eager anticipation as we awaited the arrival of our first child, a little girl named Charity, shortly after celebrating our fifth wedding anniversary. I had a fulfilling job as an oncology nurse, and Charlie’s graphic design business was thriving. We were also settling into our first owned home with the added excitement of welcoming our daught into the world was palpable. At 37 week pregnant, I had overco my anxieties about childbirth and felt full prepared for motherho
A few days after my 37th week, Charlie came down with a high fever and our world shifted dramatically. I immediately scheduled Covid test for both of us.
I tested negative. He tested positive.
“THE SITUATION TOOK A TOLL ON ME. I FELT OVERWHELMED WITH DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, AND DOUBT, QUESTIONING MY ABILITY TO GIVE BIRTH AND BE A MOTHER CHARITY NEEDED.”
Devastation washed over me The doctor recommended that we quarantine separately to prevent any risk of transmission. The thought of spending seven days apart, with the uncertainty of our daughter's arrival looming, was one of the hardest things I'd ever faced. Coupled with pregnancy hormones, my emotions were running high.
Instead of improving, Charlie's condition worsened. By the end of the following week, he was admitted to the ICU due to dangerously low oxygen levels, relying on high-flow oxygen. His ICU admission made it painfully clear that our journey to recovery would be much longer and more challenging than we had ever anticipated. It also became evident that Charlie might miss the birth of our daughter
This situation took a toll on me. I felt overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, and doubt, questioning my ability to give birth and be the mother Charity needed. One evening, my mom tried to encourage me about the upcoming labor and delivery. She said, "Faith, Charity needs YOU, and Charlie needs YOU to be strong for your daughter. You can do this, and you will." In that moment, God spoke through her, offering a timely reminder that Charlie was in the capable hands of dedicated nurses and doctors. I needed to trust their expertise and prioritize my own well-being to ensure Charity's health and readiness for labor. My mom ' s words resonated: " so that she could meet her dad soon. " Moreover, I had to remind myself that Charlie was ultimately in the hands of the greatest physician of all God Although my fears didn't vanish entirely, my perspective shifted. Life was no longer just about me and my husband; it was about us and our daughter, regardless of our circumstances.
On August 11th, three days after Charlie's ICU admission, I gave birth to our daughter, just one floor below where Charlie lay. He watched the birth through FaceTime, wearing a bipap oxygen mask that made speaking difficult. It was not the birth experience we had envisioned, but the beauty of the moment was undeniable. Charity's arrival, after a miraculously short 5.5-hour labor truly a gift from God dispelled all my worries and fears about becoming a mother. It felt as if God had provided exactly what we needed during this uncertain time, even if it wasn't what we had planned. Charity's presence brought joy and love not only to me but also to our family, who were enduring this roller coaster of a season. For Charlie, she became an even more compelling reason to keep fighting for his life, so he could meet his newborn daughter
for Charlie’s hospital room. He would gaze at those photos for hours daily, a testament to his determination to meet her. THE VERY NEXT DAY I ORDERED
When Charity was just 2.5 weeks old, Charlie experienced respiratory failure and had to be placed on a ventilator. It was the night I feared the most, my worst nightmare come true. Even with the ventilator, his oxygen levels struggled to stabilize, and his body began to show signs of heart and kidney failure due to lack of oxygen That night, I experienced the most heart-wrenching and desperate moments of my life as I prayed fervently for Charlie's survival My family, thousands of friends, and even strangers on Charlie's Facebook recovery page joined in these prayers. By a miracle, he made it through the night.
Twenty-four hours later, he was transferred to another hospital to receive ECMO, a heart-lung oxygen bypass machine that would aid his lung recovery A tracheostomy was performed, allowing the ventilator to provide respiratory support He also required dialysis for his kidneys and IV medications for his heart, along with a multitude of medications to keep him calm and sedated It took six weeks and a roller coaster of highs and lows for Charlie's body to heal and for him to be liberated from the machines and medications.
As a new mother, I faced uncertainty of whether my husband would ever recover to meet our daughter. For 77 days, I juggled caring for my newborn, often staying in AirBNBs close to the hospital, while also spending hours at my husband’s bedside.
There, I prayed over him, read scripture, listened to worship music, and provided a calm and reassuring presence My days consisted of writing updates (2-3 a day) to share with our Facebook prayer group, responding to numerous texts from family, nursing my daughter every 2-3 hours, and pumping for when I left her with the grandparents to visit Charlie I ate and slept when I could, anxiously awaiting calls from the ICU staff, a phone ringing causing immediate anxiety. Amidst this whirlwind of emotions, prayer, and worship, I grew as a mother and as a person.
Going through such a season, I realized that drawing closer to God, rather than drifting away, was the best response. Instead of letting this ordeal break me, I clung to God's word and placed my hope and faith in Him. My entry into motherhood was far from conventional; it was a journey on heavy-duty steroids. While most mothers might not have experienced motherhood in quite the same way, we can all agree that there are unexpected seasons in motherhood, regardless of where we are on that journey Some have had NICU babies, experienced the sudden loss of a child or family member, dealt with their health challenges, relocated far from family due to work, or navigated the transition to being an empty-nest mom Motherhood, in all its phases, can be strenuous, exhausting, fear-inducing, and a test of our faith
By God's grace, my husband overcame his illness after a three-month hospital stay, followed by a two-week rehab period to regain his ability to walk. He continued with physical therapy and psychological healing in the year that followed. As a new mom traversing this valley, my relationship with God became my anchor.
"It was scary, it was anxiety-provoking, it was a lot of fear of the unknown. I had to take it day by day, and I truly had to give it to God. Because in my own strength, I was not capable of facing my fears, my anxiety, the unknown alone. But when you can truly do the hard and scary things with God, He will carry you through, and you will truly experience what the Bible says: that God will give you peace that surpasses understanding. And truly, it doesn’t even make sense that in the midst of all that life was throwing at me, I would feel supernatural peace and calm That can only be explained by God giving that to me
I know I’ve said this already, but it’s worth repeating: when faced with any adversity in your life, the best thing you can do is turn towards God, not away from Him. I’ve always felt like God has walked through life beside me. I have many times experienced His goodness, faithfulness, and provision, but never had I felt Him so close as He was when I walked through that valley, the hardest in my life. But I had to choose to invite Him in, to trust Him, to allow Him to carry me through.
Now, I’m not saying I did that perfectly; I’m human. It was so scary to think of life without Charlie, the thought that he may never meet his daughter and I could be a single mom. BUT my faith had to be bigger than my fear God had proved His faithfulness and trustworthiness to me throughout my entire life And even beyond that I had to remember the greatest gift of all that God gave me, something I don’t even deserve: He died on the cross for me, for Charlie, and for You! He forgave us of our sins and then resurrected and defeated death to allow us to have eternal life with Him one day. And that right there gave me hope that EVEN if God chose to take Charlie, that it was not the end, we would be reunited in heaven one day.
Trust is not always easy, but God calls us to that.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make
your paths straight
Proverbs 3:5
While I was going through this valley, the fate of Charlie’s future was not something I could ever understand this side of heaven, but I could trust that God’s way is higher than my way and His thoughts higher than my thoughts. Knowing that no matter what God would do, He would continue to carry me and give me the strength to make it through whatever life would bring my way. That is what helped pull me through. And now, 2 years later, I see the fruit of that season, and you know what? I wouldn’t change that season!
John 16:33 says, “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” God never promised us an easy life, but in Him, we find hope, purpose, and He promises to give us peace and comfort even in the midst of our troubles, and I’ve experienced that over and over again! My faith and trust have grown so much, and sometimes it’s hard to see in the midst of the hardships or valleys we go through. But usually, or at least for me, once I’m on the other side, I’m thankful for getting to see firsthand God work through my valley and make me an even better and stronger version of myself than I was before
Because of that season, God shaped me into an even better mom and wife than I ever could have been without it My faith grew, my perspective shifted, my priorities changed, my prayer life was radically reshaped, and ultimately God got to receive the glory as He worked miracle after miracle in my family. Wherever you find yourself in your motherhood journey or just in life, God wants to be in it with you, and if you invite Him in, you will never have to go through life in your own strength, and that is an encouragement to the soul.
Let Him be your light in the darkness."
About the Contributor
I’m Faith, a wife to my amazing husband, Charlie of 7 years and mom to Charity Rose (and her sister coming Spring 2024), a vibrant, lively little girl that keeps our life so much fun! When I’m not home being mom and housewife, my favorite jobs in the world, I’m a home health nurse twice a week and that job is special too! I am a Bible believing Christian who loves my family, the church, and each day God blesses me with. I am also the daughter of Tracee Padilla of Unveiled Living.
Charlie and Faith Russell
C o m f o r t e r
a n d F a t h e r o f o u r
B l e s s e d b e t h e G o d
L o r d J e s u s C h r i s t ,
t h e F a t h e r o f
m e r c i e s a n d G o d o f
a l l c o m f o r t , w h o
c o m f o r t s u s i n a l l
o u r a f f l i c t i o n , s o
t h a t w e m a y b e a b l e
t o c o m f o r t t h o s e
w h o a r e i n a n y
a f f l i c t i o n , w i t h t h e
c o m f o r t w i t h w h i c h
w e o u r s e l v e s a r e
c o m f o r t e d b y G o d .
2 C o r i n t h i a n s 1 : 3 - 4
Interrupted
When the busyness of life conceals what truly matters.
By Carmen Chase
“What’s that smell?!”
Having designated my afternoon as prep time for our church’s college class, I was annoyed that my nose would no longer allow me to concentrate. Glancing underneath the table, I suspiciously eyed Rocky, my in-laws’ dog as the possible source for the offensive odor.
Seeing nothing, I hitched up his leash and we took a stroll outside to give opportunity just in case. But Rocky just stared ahead, not the slightest bit interested in my cajoling to produce evidence of active bowels. Heading back inside, the same offensive odor attacked me at the door, and it was then that I noticed the tell-tale smudge on the kitchen floor. But why just a smudge, not a….?
The horror of the situation gripped me as I ran to interrupt my robot vacuum mid-route, turning it over to confirm what I already knew: it had found a deposit of “doo-doo” somewhere and was faithfully dispensing its newfound treasure throughout the mission field of our home.
Three hours later--every inch of floor scrubbed clean and robot vacuum mournfully tossed in the dumpster I could finally return to my “important” business. But noticing Rocky, returned to his sad little space beneath the table, my heart was moved with compassion
Why was he isolating himself? Why was he leaving “hidden piles”? From his perspective, his best-buddy (my father-in-law) had abandoned him 4 days ago. Was he EVER coming back? He was unsettled and confused.
Sinking to my knees beside him, I laid my hands gently on his soft fur and prayed for him as I would any friend, loosing off anxiety and speaking supernatural peace over his troubled heart and mind.
The Next Day,
the Holy Spirit nudged a friend to the forefront of my thoughts. Battling health issues, she had no option but to file for temporary disability with her job, and I was suddenly aware that I had not seen her at church recently
Was she isolating herself? Were there “hidden piles” of needs that I hadn’t noticed because I was busy with “important” things? Perhaps she was unsettled and confused. It had been weeks and still our Father God had not healed her or provided answers through doctors.
Finding a quiet space, I opened my text app and voice-recorded a prayer of faith for her, believing for God’s miraculous intervention in her body and over her job, but also loosing off anxiety and speaking supernatural peace over her mind. I pressed “send”, knowing she could save the recording and listen as often as she liked. And knowing I was going to follow up by taking her to lunch at her earliest convenience.
Her response? “I SO needed that ”
Jesus was famously “interrupted”
Jesus’ journey to his home in Galilee was famously “interrupted” by a conversation with a Samaritan woman with a sordid past. While she was busy rounding up the town to come meet him, Jesus assured his astonished disciples, “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.” Yes, getting to Galilee was on the agenda.
But the more IMPORTANT WORK was something unseen and priceless.
ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR
Carmen Chase and her husband (who gallantly ordered her a replacement robot vacuum the same day) are staff pastors in a small North Carolina Beach town. They believe “fun” is one of God’s Kingdom weapons, and enjoy using it often.
shadows shadows shadowsIN THE IN THE
OF MINISTRY OF MINISTRY
BY KELLIE RUSSELL
wives in our area with the hope of building supportive friendships among us. Our hostess prepared delicious treats and created a warm atmosphere for conversation. She provided time for us to share what was happening in our churches and how we could pray for one another We came from various backgrounds, but our hearts were united as we laughed, cried, and prayed with compassion for the lost souls in our community
A few weeks later, the hostess contacted me to provide feedback on our meeting and asked for my thoughts on what to call our little group Someone had suggested the titles “Women in Leadership” or “Leading Ladies” because they felt that we were more than just pastor’s wives.
This trend seems to be growing everywhere I go these days Every conference or convention features workshops for women in ministry or church leadership Preacher’s wives are usually invited to attend these meetings as if we are an afterthought, or as if we are all the same and it doesn’t really matter
that churches may disagree about the role of women in the church, and I recognize that these support groups may serve a purpose However, I strongly disagree that a pastor’s wife can simply be lumped in with all the women who serve on the staff at a church, and I fear that the traditional role of a pastor’s wife is being ignored in our church culture.
My response to my friend, who asked for input was:
I believe my primary calling is to be a helper perfectly suited for my husband. Sometimes that means the majority of my energy is spent making our home a peaceful refuge. Sometimes I’m a confidante who helps him carry heavy burdens, a companion on a missions trip, or a friendly face beside him shaking hands at the door
Many times, it means I serve in a variety of volunteer roles, whether they are public or hidden, simply because they are needed. I may work in the nursery or help lead worship. I might do both, and I might get only 15 minutes notice. Currently, my husband invites me to edit his sermon with him on Thursday nights because it utilizes one of my gifts, and it makes me feel like a partner in ministry with him behind the scenes.
There are also the unexpected, unidentified roles: visiting people in the hospital, attending funerals, coordinating benevolence care for widows, counseling those who are hurting, hosting dinners, and so on This consumes a great deal of time
However, at no point do I consider myself a ‘leader’ in the church I acknowledge that I am a person of influence because of my position, but that position involves serving alongside my husband I help my husband in whatever way I can as he shepherds the flock. I am not the leader at home, and I am not the leader at church.
Calling our group anything that resembles “Women in Leadership” takes away from the beauty of what we actually do. Those pastor’s wives who happen to have a paid staff position at their church are wearing two full-time hats in my
opinion: their own personal ministry plus being a pastor’s wife.
Again, the fact that some have positions of leadership should not detract from the special role that simply being a wife to a lead pastor involves It is unique I’ve been a part of other groups that tried to assimilate pastor’s wives with other women in ministry, but my experience has not been positive We simply don’t have much in common We are a different breed.
Those with paid positions usually work in an office, have specific skills, and are given work hours. They are used to having a budget, being assigned projects, and working with teams. They may or may not be married or have children.
Pastor’s wives do not get paid. We have no time off. Our husbands are almost never available. We drop everything to do anything, whether we like it or not or know how to do it or not For many years, we do it with kids in tow
We see people at their worst We hear heartbreaking stories almost daily We celebrate when babies are born and pray when saints go to heaven. We bring casseroles to the sick. We counsel couples in broken marriages or teenagers struggling with depression. And all the while, we try to keep a clean kitchen and have supper on the table by six o’clock.
I wouldn’t trade this life for the entire world! I am privileged to be called a pastor’s wife, and I want to be allowed to celebrate the blessing that it is. The world may not see glory being a wife, but God does.
If you are a pastor’s wife, I hope this encourages you to remember that God sees your sacrifice You are significant to the body of Christ, and your treasures are laid up in heaven If you are blessed to know a pastor’s wife, then I hope you are motivated to acknowledge the gift that she is and thank her for her ministry.
About the Contributor:
Kellie Russell has been a pastor’s wife for over 30 years Her husband, Rusty, is the lead pastor of New Day Christian Church in Port Charlotte, FL. She is a retired homeschooling mama of four kids and she has just begun to enjoy the journey of being a grandma to two beautiful grandchildren with one on the way! Kellie is also the mother-in-law of Faith Russell ~ Charlie’s mom
From Needles to Nurturing
Lessons from my mom’s sewing room
by Beth Nelson
“She
taught me to read pattern instructions, study the picture examples, and lay out the pattern pieces accordingly.”
At the time, I really didn’t see it for the value it truly was and only heard things like, “I can make that for a fraction of the cost.” So, I sort of thought it was about money, but in retrospect, I can see how valuable it was to be an heir of such a skilled woman
Sewing is just one example of how my mom served as a role model. In the process of sewing, you can witness my mother’s role modeling, mirroring the examples provided to use by our Heavenly Father
Not until I became an adult did I realize the significance and irony of this parallel. Just like the Bible instructs us on how to construct our life, a sewing pattern instructs us on how to construct a garment I feel blessed that my mother, like Jesus, modeled qualities such as love, selflessness, patience, kindness, perseverance, the willingness to correct mistakes, and forgiveness, to me
Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. ”
John 13:14-15 NIV
However, it isn’t always easy, is it? It’s hard to exercise love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness...when life is full of busyness. Sometimes when I reflect on how I’ve modeled behavior for my own children, I’m quite certain they didn’t receive the same level of patience
Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not run from it.
Proverbs 22:6 NIV
BY TRICIA CLARK
My 10 month old grandson and his friends recently started taking swimming lessons at my home. As I watched them in the arms of their parents, I noticed how some embraced this experience and sailed straight through as if they were born to be swimmers. At the same time, the ones without fins felt petrified of the oversized bathtub!
Explaining to a tiny human learning how to swim is for their survival is like explaining to a teenager why they can’t have unlimited access to their cell phone; neither can comprehend the dangers.
As parents, we have gained a lifetime of experience and knowledge to know what is best for the little ones we treasure. God entrusted their well-being to us to teach and guide them as they overcome fearful and sometimes dangerous situations they might face. At that moment, God reminded me that He has the wisdom and knowledge to teach and guide us through our own situations.
I often find myself facing circumstances I never asked for. Maybe you have, too. Could it be you have a child who has made life-altering decisions, and you can’t protect them from the consequences of their choices. Or, maybe you have been given a health scare, and not knowing the outcome has left you emotionally paralyzed. Worse yet, death has stolen someone you love and need in your life, and you don’t see how you will function without them. None of these situations is any more fearful than the other when you are the one facing them.
As we reflect on the circumstances we face, how could we respond to these fears?
Do we kick our feet with child-like tantrums because God allowed challenging and unknown situations to enter our lives, or do we cling to our Dad for safety and guidance to get us through it?
Like babies learning to swim for the first time, we find fear and uncertainty to be more than we would ever choose to face. And we want the fear and uncertainty to stop! Desperately trying to stay afloat, we find ourselves in panic mode, which only causes us to sink further into despair.
Finding rest in the arms of Jesus by trusting He will keep us from drowning lifts the weight and pressure of our circumstances. A weightless sensation will replace our sinking hopelessness.
Then, as we look into the eyes of our rescuer for reassuring safety, he will say, ‘You are going to be okay, I am right here. I am holding you so you don’t go under. I won’t let you go!”
“For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand: it is I who say to you, ‘Fear not, I am the one who helps you.’”
Isaiah 41:31 ESV
As I watch my grandson look into his mommy’s eyes for reassurance that he is safe, we too, can look into the face of Jesus and know we are safe in His arms, and He has promised never to let us go.
About the Contributor:
Tricia Clark has been pursuing the hearts of women to empower, equip, restore, and validate them She does this by helping them recognize their value, worth, and identity in Christ - giving them the strength to overcome their shame, fear, and defeat Helping to expose God's truth over the enemy's lies that have kept them in bondage
Tricia and her husband reside in Lakeland, Florida
There
was a
mother, our mother, who made it all happen.
There was a mother who did all that she could for her children, in very difficult times. There was a mother who was determined to give her children things she never had. But most importantly, there was a mother who gave her children a wonderful Christian home to grow up in.
There was a mother, our mother, who made it all happen
Our father moved us from Texas to a small town in Ohio He wanted to give his family a better life than what he and our mother had
Shortly after we were settled in our apartment above the town post office, he was drafted into the Navy. WWII was still going on
Mom was only 24 years old when she was left alone in a strange town with four young children. Her native tongue was Spanish, but she could speak English quite well Mom had to learn how to budget the small monthly military check. She had to learn many things and quickly adapt to a new way of life. Before our father left for the Navy, a kind store owner across from our apartment told him, “I am too old to go to war, I will watch over your family while you go in my place.” This kind man guided our mother each step of the way
Mom was raised Catholic and there were only Protestant churches in town. Mom was strong willed and was determined to fit in. Our apartment was next to the Methodist church and the parsonage, and it didn’t matter to her that it was a Protestant church she took us there. The minister took mom under his wings and his wife took me (smile) I used to sneak over to the parsonage porch to play with my doll and their swing. She watched over me as I was only three years old.
Things weren’t all roses. Because of mom’s roots, she was treated differently by some of the people. Our dear mother suffered racial discrimination. Since Dad was gone, she had to go through this by herself Mom hand-sewed most of our clothes because she did not have a sewing machine. Each Sunday she made sure we were bathed, shoes polished, hair combed, and dressed in our nice Sunday clothes One Sunday my siblings and I were lined up at the church entrance (ages 8, 6, 4 and 2). A lady loudly said, “Look at them, they’re clean, and dressed nice, and their shoes are so white” as we were supposed to be dirty Mom ignored them But it hurt her terribly.
Mom was stubborn enough to let nothing stop her from taking her children to church. She was determined enough to not let racism affect her and her children.
Mom took me to the toddler’s class, and my siblings went to theirs. I was told that at two and a half years old I would not stay in my room. I wandered around looking for them It was most likely the “cookie” thing that enticed me When in the morning service, mom told us we better behave, she made sure of it, too She would pinch our thighs if we giggled or got off the pew; I wanted to scream wondering how that was going to help us be quiet? I am still wondering why I am the only one that remembers this?
While living in our downtown apartment, mom walked to a house in the neighborhood where she had seen an unkept side yard. She bravely asked them if she could plant a garden there. She proceeded to plant all kinds of vegetables She took us to the garden every day so she could weed and water her garden As vegetables ripened, she kept enough for us, then shared the rest with the neighbors.
When our father came home from the Navy, he bought us a house We were so excited and ready to move from town and into a real neighborhood. I’m sure the first thing Mom did was plant a garden. I remember her taking us “berry picking” every summer. We didn’t like going, the bees were not friendly Each year Mom faithfully canned jams and vegetables from her garden. She let nothing go to waste and planned ahead for the winter months.
Our new home was a few blocks from the church, but missing church was not an option. The church bell rang at 9:00 a.m. letting us know it was time to walk to church. As we got older, she encouraged us to join the choir, and attend the Methodist Youth Fellowship (MYF). When we were around twelve years old, we went through confirmation classes and became members.
As years went by the town started to appreciate this little family from Texas. Mom was elected president of the Women’s Flower Club and had to learn the “Roberts Rules of Order.” Dad was a boy scout leader, coached the boys Little League; and was the announcer at adult baseball games Neighbors brought their visitors to see Mom’s pretty flower gardens. She was always asked to bring homemade pies and fried chicken to town events. One year at our school they offered a Spanish class, mom was asked to help teach
Bless the gardens of the world, the soil and rain and sunshine, and the work of all who sow and reap. Give abundant harvests and teach us to share them with justice. God of grace, hear our prayer. Bless the gardens of our community, the shelter of families, the fragrance of friendship. ~Anonymous
About the Contributor
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.Proverbs 31:25
We have fond memories of Mom frying chicken, making popcorn, buying A&W root beer, and taking us to the drive-in movies. We were not wealthy by all means, but our parents made sure our life was rich with experiences
She planted a garden during WWII. She shared the crop with people she did not know. People that sometimes were not so kind Hebrews 13:16: “Do not neglect to do good and share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” Mom shared what she harvested
Our mother was a perfect example of what a one can do even when all the odds are against you. She was left alone for two years with responsibilities over and above what she thought she was capable of, but she did it.
There was a mother. . . who was always in God’s hands, whether she realized it or not
Caroline graduated from Regis University with a BS in Business/Marketing. She was inducted into the National Alpha Sigma Nu honor society She spent 18 years in the Air Force Reserves as the NCOIC Officer of Admin She worked in Defense related companies until retirement She received a Certificate of Excellence in Children’s literature in 2019 for a first-time author and received the Children’s Purple Dragonfly Book Award in 2019 and in 2021
She is the mother of four children, grandmother of 8, great-grandmother of three, with another on the way She lives in Colorado Springs with her husband, Charles Eklund. Caroline is also the Aunt of Tracee Padilla - Unveiled Living (and her Mother is Tracee’s Grandmother).
Nurturing the
I remember the anticipation and excitement of becoming a new mom! I prepared so diligently to welcome my first child into the world! I read many parenting books, attended parenting classes, and asked advice from experienced mom friends, because I had the best intentions to be as great a mom I could possibly be.
While my entire focus was on preparing everything for my child's arrival, there was one crucial question I never thought to ask: How would I prepare to take care of staying mindful of me as I transitioned into learning all there was to learn about this new job I was committing to? I prepared everything for them but I did not prepare how to balance myself and my own needs for this new role
As it turned out, this oversight led me on an extraordinary journey, one personally guided by God Himself. It became a journey of self-care, changing how I approached the joyful and sometimes chaotic world of motherhood I learned how God's wisdom can empower every mother to thrive in the role of a lifetime
I believe that incorporating health practices and spiritual habits into our lives is essential But when I reflect on my own journey as a mom, it feels like the training I received was uniquely tailored to me. It wouldn't be fair to burden people with lists of things they must do to safeguard their lives from emergencies So, if I could offer any advice, it would be this: Be present. Stay in the moment. Listen to those inner nudges, interests, and prompts that stir in your heart and spirit, and follow them Trust that God has a purpose for awakening specific interests or insights precisely when He does in your life.
I have faith that He has designed a highly specialized, unique, and personalized syllabus just for you. He's built in plenty of grace margins for those moments when you might miss something or need extra time to learn. Trust that you can't do it all at once. Have faith in the process, knowing that it all adds up, and remember that there's grace for not having all the answers right away Stay alert, respond to His nudges, and soak up knowledge, as Proverbs 19:8 encourages us. Your life will be richly rewarded with good things. He is our personalized trainer, molding us into the best version of ourselves I trust that He knows precisely what we need now to thrive in the future. Let’s wholeheartedly embrace His syllabus for our spirit, soul, and body, allowing our journey as a mom to be a powerful testament to the beauty of trusting God to nurture not only our children but also us.
About the Contributor
Cendrine is a Swiss native who has lived in the States for the past 25 years A retired homeschool teacher to her two kids, she has embarked on a new adventures as a Life Consultant and writer In her free time she likes to read, enjoys cooking, has a passion for healthy living, and for deepening her walk with God.
Stayalert. Respondto HisNudges.
COFFEE WITH
K a t h l e e n K a t h l e e n K a t h l e e n
WeepinginWalmart
bykathleenknapp
Iwasstandinginthetoysectionof
our local department store just before Christmas. As I scanned the shelves, trying to decide on the best present for my son, a sudden realization hit me so hard that I let out an audible sob. I clutched my hand to my mouth as the tears began to flow. I staggered out of the store without a purchase and sat sobbing in the safety of my parked car. I was overcome with grief and shock. My heart was broken. You see, it suddenly hit me I was shopping in the toddler section for my son, who was eight years old. The harsh reality of his cognitive disability was devastating.
Ofcourse,
I knew he was delayed. My son had brain cancer at the age of three with a recurrence at the age of four, which he nearly didn’t survive. He underwent three cranial surgeries, numerous cycles of radiation, and very high doses of chemotherapy. The resulting cognitive delay was a small price to pay for his life. Even his doctors agreed his survival was a miracle of modern science combined with the power of prayer.
cognitive delays daily, along with his teachers and support workers. But this realizaiton that not only was he not a typical eight year old but also that he would likely never progress developmentally with his peers hit hard. I was brokenhearted as I realized the cruelty of his fate.
least expect it. And not all grief is related to death, either. Grief can be experienced over any type of loss. Moments like this can strike suddenly in the daily routine of life. I was grieving the loss of a dream, the loss of ‘normal,’ the loss of innocence, the loss of my son’s future, and the loss of hope.
and frustration at the injustice and unfairness of son’s disabilities. It broke my heart. But God gently spoke to my hurting heart.
“And we know that in all things god works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purposes”.
God’s spirit comforted me and reassured me of His plan for my son’s life. His life had been spared after miraculous prayer. His life would be a testimony of God’s healing, love, and grace. God had a purpose even if I couldn’t see it at the time.
As I accepted the reality of the situation, I could meet my son’s needs where he was, not where I wished him to be. I was able to go back into the store another day with joy of choosing a wonderful toy that my son would love and that would meet his developmental needs without worrying about where his physical age should be.
Kathleen lives in western Canada with her husband. She is the mother of 3 children. She shares her heartfelt experiences as a parent raising and releasing children with special needs. Through her personal experiences she shows understanding and compassion for parents struggling, feeling isolated, and losing faith. She is recently retired and enjoy new hobbies such as photography, painting, piano, line dancing and playing pickle ball. You can visit Kathleen’s website at: www.kathleenknappwriter.com Aboutthecontributor
by Joy Wendling
“I CAN’T DO IT ANYMORE”
Two weeks ago, I found myself sitting on the kitchen floor bawling and crying out to God. “My kids deserve better! Help me be the mama that they deserve ”
I sat that way for almost an hour, unable to move or speak kindly to my girls or myself There were still hours to go before my husband would be home, and we were already thirty minutes past bedtime. I didn’t feel like I would make it.
BUT I DID.
Here I stand weeks later and those feelings have passed. Even the next day I knew I was a good mom and I would make it through. But I was having a hard day My feelings were telling me something was wrong. Something needed attention. The feelings were communicating that I needed a break So, my husband and I made plans for me to get an evening alone with God later in the week.
As mamas, we are full of feelings, joy, despair, exhaustion, excitement, bitterness, confidence, and everywhere in between. We were created to feel. Many of us were created to feel deeply. It is an intentional and beautiful place of God’s design for us.
Our feelings help us to nurture our children, support our husbands, empathize with neighbors, and recognize that we, too, need some nurturing and support while pouring out to others. Feelings are so tricky They don’t always communicate well Just like my feelings glued me to the kitchen floor with lies, our feelings message sometimes get lost in translation. But, before we throw the baby out with the bathwater and determine to simply ignore our feelings or even call them liars, let’s take a closer look.
There are some very true things that I learned from letting those feelings come and then taking them to God in the moment:
I was struggling with controlling my tone that evening, and God convicted me and gave me the time and space to adjust.
It had been weeks since I had given myself playtime
I was hiding some of my scheduling struggles to support my husband.
A gentle(ish) reminder that even parent coaches need support in their parenting.
God wants me to come to Him in the mess for comfort, and I didn’t need to hide it or try to make it pretty and polished
My most high-energy child was the one who came and just sat with me, not needing anything but offering compassion and company
“Feelings are tricky, They don’t always communicate well.”
Looking back, I wouldn’t give up those lessons for a more peaceful night I know those feelings were temporary, but they were important. They just needed a little space and discernment for better translation.
Under heat, our feelings can get bigger, but they will eventually deflate again. So, what do we do with these feelings that can’t always be trusted but still need to be acknowledge?
Bring them to God, Mama!
No matter what the feelings are, He is a safe place to unload them, question them, share them, celebrate them, translate them, learn from them, or whatever else needs to be done to acknowledge them well. Though not a mama, King David was no stranger to bringing his feelings to God
Read through the Psalms and you will see a man after God’s own heart, boldly and humbly offering his heart to God. In Psalm 7:9 (CSB) David writes, “The one who examines the thoughts and emotions is a righteous God.” He is good, and He is listening.
Mamas, we carry many emotions. We even carry those of others, especially our children Just as a mother comforts a crying child, offers her calm during a meltdown, and rejoices in celebration, God wants to do that for you, too. You are His child and He welcomes you into His safe and loving embrace
ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR
Joy is wife to Kyle and mama to 5 girls. Her understanding of the important role of parents in a child’s life and faith led her to earn her Master’s in Youth, Family, and Culture from Fuller Theological Seminary, complete a certificate in Parenting for Faith from Cliff College, and become a Connected Families Certified Parent Coach. Joy loves to walk with Christian mamas as they pursue Christ and seek to disciple their children for Him. Most days you’ll find Joy gazing at mountains and water with a kid or two in the hammock at her island home
ofMotherhood TAPESTRY
UNVEILING THE a personal journey.
BY TIFFANY SNYDER-THOMPSON
It brings me great joy to create this digital magazine for you each season. I am profoundly grateful for every reader who invests their time in exploring the stories contributed by our remarkable team. These stories are a tapestry of God's Word, woven with encouragement and hope.
I am excited to share that we've now reached a stage where we require additional resources to enhance the production of this digital magazine and Unveiled Living as a whole. If you'd like to support Unveiled Living and join us in continuing to be a beacon for Jesus to our 1000+ readers, please consider making a donation by clicking here. Your generous support will also contribute to expediting the processing of our 501(c)(3) Non-Profit application. Thank you beyond words for all your support! ~Tracee
Thank you for being a part of the Unveiled Living Family.
Renewed. Revitalized. Empowered.
Who Will Wear the Glass Slipper
by Michelle A. Balts
I'm quite sure this story from long ago has been told to you before of a man w married as his second wife a very self-absorbed, cruel woman. She had two daughters who were almost an exact copy of their mother, although the young was not as heartless as the older one. This man had a daughter of his own wit first wife, who had been a kind and generous wife and mother. His daughter h taken on the character qualities of her mother.
The second wife had no tolerance for the goodness she saw in her new husba daughter So she set out to make her life as miserable as possible by giving h l b k of scouring the dishes, the furniture, and the floors of the enti own daughters were treated like princesses dressed in the fine in their own bedrooms with lovely furnishings While the man ' s d scurry away to the chimney corner sitting alone among the ci s the name Cinderwrench was coined with the youngest step si derella.
ntinues the reigning king announced a grand ball in honor of the ingdom in which eligible young ladies were invited to attend. O o step sisters were prepped and poised to make their appearan g ' s son with the help of poor Cinderella. She was left with the t ironing their fancy dresses for the ball. And she heard nothing festivities and how beautiful they would look in their long gown
meone else would assist Cinderella so she could go to the ball, of a pumpkin that turns into a carriage with mice that become serves as a coachman and lizards that turn into footmen. The n that takes place is when Cinderella's clothes change old and silver with jewels and lastly the famous glass ps on her feet
taken to the ball after all in grand style with strict t to stay after midnight for if she did, everything ck into its original form. When at last the rat, I chman, arrived it was announced to the prince wn princess had come to the palace. As she the carriage the prince appeared eagerly rrival. Her two step sisters did not even realize derella herself. And although they did not Cinderella treated them cordially, that is, nd even shared some of the special foods she n at the king's table.
bly remember in the original narrative the search for incess ensued to discover the foot that would fit in ass slipper. After Cinderella had quickly run from the e to leave before the clock struck midnight a glass pped off of her foot leaving behind evidence of her he palace. Now that the inquiry had begun the prince ed to find her and marry her as he had fallen madly in
ny life applications we could pull from the story of ut let's begin by observing how she was treated in this Many times we also can feel left out, disappointed, ejected, alone and even abandoned. Yet when we eator Who is our first Abba Father we can see that us. To the lonely Father God makes them par f
tale of Cinderella it would appear that her fa alked out and left her, but our Creator God t as and takes care of us And when we choos e name of God's Son, Jesus, He becomes our F ther has delivered and drawn us to Himself o he dominion of darkness and has transferred u of the Son of His love, in whom we have our hrough the blood of Jesus, which means the f our sins. But not only forgiveness, but it also of penalty and removal of guilt. All of this res with our loving heavenly Father. Wow, that's a ? But it's true!
There are three things that all of us long for in this life, as Cinderella, and they are love, that is, to be loved and to lo sense of belonging, and purpose. Creator God has proved for us by sending His only Son to die for us and He raised H the dead so that we could be reconnected to our heavenly After we confess with our mouth that Jesus is Lord, that He died and rose from the dead in our place, we are not only as His own children into God's family, He makes us accepte Beloved And He lets us know that the thoughts He has tow are thoughts of peace, not of evil, to give us a future and a
So as you begin your walk toward Abba Father through His Son, Jesus, believe what He says about you. In the end Cinderella found that she really was loved and wanted and finally lived happily ever after. You, too, can find your perfect fit that Abba Daddy God has just for you as you spend time daily talking and listening to Him, reading His Word, the real Bible, and thanking Him for all He has done for you. Start today and live a happy life.
About the Contributor
Michelle is the sister of Tracee, friend, school teacher with over 30+ years of teaching in the Christian School sector and having spent the past 13 years homeschooling her daughter She has been married 23 years In her spare time, she enjoys sewing, quilting, hand-stitching, drawing, painting, nature, and walking on the beach She lives with her family in Wisconsin
Real life talk about everyday struggles infused with joy and a whole lot of Jesus.
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But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
