Love came down on the first Christmas. Love came down for you and me. Love came down to set us free. Love was born on Christmas Day. Have a Merry and Blessed Christmas. ~OC

As we celebrate this holiday season, what are you grateful for? I pray as we are busy finishing up all the shopping, cooking and traveling, we will remember to be grateful for our blessings. Here are a few things I am grateful for:

*I am grateful for my relationship with God.

*I am grateful for the first breath I take every morning and each one afterwards.

*I am grateful for my wife Laura West Shoemaker.

*I am grateful for my family and friends.

*I am grateful for my medical team.

*I am grateful for my feeding tube.

*I am grateful for my gastro pacemaker.

*I am grateful for this crazy/beautiful journey.

*I am grateful for prayers.

*I am grateful that I can still walk on my own.

*I am grateful for my church home.

*I am grateful that Laura and I still get to make memories together.

*I am grateful I am still able to travel.

*I am grateful for my medications.

*I am grateful for books and music.

*I am grateful for my home.

*I am grateful for technology.

*I am grateful I still get to share my story.

*I am grateful I am able to write this post.

OC

I am human. My comprehension of eternal things are limited by the skin that I am living in…. but I know enough about God’s character to know that His promises are rock solid. He cannnot lie and He is not a man that he should change his mind. His words are unchanging and for me, that is enough. ~OC

Below are some encouraging words God shared with me.

I am by your side during this journey.

I will never let you walk this journey alone.

I love you more than you could ever imagine.

The healing I have for you is coming.

OC

Today’s a new day! It’s the most wonderful time of the year. We hear that a lot during the holiday season. There are so many parties, and get togethers with family and friends. There are people laughing and saying, ” Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays.” But not everyone is enjoying the most wonderful time of the year. For many, this is the toughest time of the year.

So as we whistle and sing Christmas carols, let us not forget those that are hurting. Slow down enough to see that loved one, that coworker, or stranger who appears to be struggling. Let’s not get so caught up in the parties and gift giving that we miss those who are dealing with depression or other life issues this holiday season. Take time to reach out and offer a helping hand. ~OC

Anyone who knows me, knows I love music. I have music therapy sessions several times a day. I love all types of music. My musical library is very diverse. We all know how powerful music can be in our lives. Let me share how powerful music can be.

As everyone knows I have been dealing with Parkinson’s for the past 11 years. As the “Gift” that keeps taking has gotten worse, everyday activities have gotten more difficult. One of those activities is shaving. This is something I have been doing since I was a teenager, and it has become a major undertaking. But one day a few months ago, I decided to listen to some music while shaving. To my surprise, shaving was a little easier. There was less knicks and blood involved. I think the music helps me not concentrate so much on the activity of shaving. This revelation has made at least one activity a little easier. The power of music. ~OC

Good morning! Dear God, thank you for being so faithful during my crazy/beautiful journey. Help me to share your faithfulness with others to help encourage them. ~OC

Today’s a new day! This crazy/beautiful journey has taken many winding roads. I cannot always see what’s up ahead, though I desperately look for any kind of signs. So I keep my eyes focused on God’s footprints, who have gone before me. ~OC

Today’s a new day! Our words are powerful, make no mistake. They can inspire and elevate or they can cut down and destroy. A seemingly simple comment, without consideration, can devastate.  Once it’s out there, you can never get it back. ~OC

Today’s a new day! At the end of the day, I just want to be surrounded by true friends having conversations that matter. ~OC