Lean On Me (And Maybe a Few Others, Too)

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Once upon a time, in a world where neighbors actually knew each other’s names and didn’t just recognize them from Amazon package labels, people leaned on their communities. Whether it was borrowing a cup of sugar (or a lawnmower) or getting advice from someone who had “been there, done that,” community was the secret sauce of success and well-being.

Nowadays, we have Wi-Fi, social media, and enough digital connections to make a robot blush—but somehow, we’re lonelier than ever. That’s why we need to get back to what actually works: real community.

I once heard someone say, “You’ll never be your best self by yourself.” And honestly, they nailed it. So, let’s talk about why community matters and how to build one that actually makes life better.

1. You Need Community. (Yes, Even You, Lone Ranger.)

A strong community is like a good cup of coffee—warm, energizing, and way better when shared. Whether it’s a church, a gym, a book club, your work family, or just a group of people who share the same oddly specific hobby (synchronized dog walking, anyone?), you need people around you.

Reality check: No community is perfect. There will be drama, strong opinions, and probably someone who always forgets to Venmo you back. But a good community? It’s worth its weight in gold.

2. Can’t Find a Community? Build One!

If you’re struggling to find your people, congratulations! You’ve just been elected the founder of a brand-new community. (No pressure.) It could start with a coffee meetup, a Facebook group, or just inviting a couple of friends over for a game night. Small sparks create big fires.

3. Invest In Your Community.

Great communities don’t just happen—they’re built. And that takes time, patience, and showing up (even when Netflix is calling your name).

Here’s the secret: The best communities are not built on what you get but on what you give. Be the one who encourages, checks in, and brings extra snacks. Give your time, energy, and resources, and watch how it comes back tenfold.

4. Ditch the Perfection Act. (We See Through It Anyway.)

Listen, nobody relates to perfection. If you’ve built an imaginary Instagram-filtered wall around your life, it’s time to tear that thing down. Real relationships grow in honesty, not in perfectly curated highlight reels. Be real, be vulnerable, and let people in. You’ll be surprised how much stronger your community becomes when you stop pretending you have it all together. (Spoiler alert: none of us do.)

5. Conflict Happens. Handle It Like a Pro.

Every community—no matter how amazing—will have conflict. That’s just humans being human. But here’s a pro tip: Conflict gets worse when you ignore it and shrinks when you address it with humility.

Instead of avoiding it, bring it to the table. Literally. Grab coffee, hash it out, and prioritize the relationship over the argument. Healthy communities aren’t built on perfect agreement—they’re built on people willing to work through their differences.

Let’s Build Something That Lasts.

Bottom line? We are better together. We were designed for community—created to lift each other up, challenge each other, and be there when life gets hard.

So, let’s embrace the messiness of real relationships.
Let’s invest in the people around us.
Let’s choose community over isolation.

Because at the end of the day, success isn’t about going solo—it’s about who you’re walking with.

So, who’s in?

What Are You Looking For?

General

What Are You Looking For?

(3 minutes read time)

Ever feel like your brain has a built-in negativity GPS, rerouting you straight to the worst-case scenario? Yeah, same. I’m not a neuroscientist, but I’m pretty sure our minds have a “doom-scroll” mode that kicks in when we’re not paying attention. Sometimes it feels like my brain is throwing a pity party, complete with flashing neon signs that say “Here’s Everything That’s Wrong!” Someone hit the reset button already!

But here’s the good news: We’re not helpless victims of our mental default settings. No one handed us a user manual for life that says, “Sorry, you’re stuck in negative mode forever.” We have the power to choose what we focus on—and that choice can change everything.

It’s simple, really. You find what you’re looking for. If you’re scanning the horizon for problems, guess what? You’ll spot every single one. But if you look for the good, the beautiful, and the uplifting? You’ll start seeing those, too.

Think of it like treasure hunting. If you head to the beach with a metal detector, you’re not shocked when you find a few bottle caps and rusty nails—but you keep looking because you’re hoping for the gold. Life’s a lot like that: focus on the gold, not the garbage.

So, what’s your treasure? For me, it’s the simple joys. Like a fresh cup of home-brewed coffee filling the kitchen with its comforting aroma. Or stepping outside, feeling the breeze on my face, and hearing the rhythm of nature over my own thoughts.

It’s the quiet solitude of early mornings, when the world hasn’t quite woken up yet, giving me space to breathe and reset. It’s the satisfaction of moving my body through a good workout or the connection I feel in the laughter and love of my family. Those are my treasures—the gold I choose to look for.

What Should You Look For?

Here are a few things worth keeping your eyes open for:

  • Look for beauty – It’s everywhere. Sunsets, trees, a perfectly toasted piece of bread. Yes, even bread.
  • Look for connection – That stranger who held the door, the friend who texted, “Thinking of you,” or the waiter who nailed the service.
  • Look for challenge – Growth comes through resistance. Embrace the hard stuff; it’s where your story gets interesting.
  • Look for love – Not just romantic love, but kindness, generosity, and those small acts of humanity that make life rich.

We’re not just passengers in someone else’s story. We’re authors of our own, and let me tell you—there’s a lot of beauty waiting to be written into your chapters.

What’s Your Treasure?

So next time you’re walking through the moments of your day, ask yourself—what am I looking for? Because the answer will determine what you find.

Look for the gold. Skip the garbage. And enjoy the beauty of your story.

Rooted to Rise: Why We Need a Trellis for Our Faith

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By Steven Hedgecoth. – 4 minutes read time

Have you ever visited a vineyard and noticed how the grapevines don’t just sprawl across the ground? Instead, they’re lifted up by a structure—commonly called a trellis—so they can Have you ever visited a vineyard and noticed how the grapevines don’t just sprawl across the ground? Instead, they’re carefully lifted by a structure—commonly called a trellis—so they can flourish in the sunlight, stay healthy, and produce high-quality fruit. Without this trellis, the vines would get tangled on the ground and bear damaged or diseased grapes. It’s no different for us spiritually. Just as vines need a structure to help them thrive, we need spiritual practices and relationships that support our growth.

What Happens When a Vine Doesn’t Have a Trellis?

  • Lack of Direction: Vines lying on the ground can’t grow upward to receive proper light and airflow, stunting their potential.
  • Susceptibility to Disease and Pests: Fruit and leaves that remain on damp soil are more likely to rot and become infested.
  • Reduced Fruit Quality: Grapes that develop on the ground often become bruised or spoiled, diminishing both yield and taste.
  • Hindered Harvest: Workers must sift through tangled vines on the ground, making it difficult to harvest or prune effectively.

Without a trellis, a vineyard cannot produce abundant or healthy fruit. Likewise, without intentional structures that lift our spiritual life, we risk “tangling” ourselves in unhealthy habits, distractions, or complacency.

Why Fruit Matters

Jesus uses vineyard imagery to explain our spiritual lives. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit…” (John 15:5). That fruit is the tangible evidence of a vibrant relationship with Christ—manifested as kindness, generosity, perseverance, and love. It’s this visible transformation of character that makes others see God’s goodness and reality at work in us.

Yet fruit isn’t produced automatically; it requires careful, intentional support. That’s where the spiritual trellis comes in.

What Is a Spiritual Trellis?

A spiritual trellis is the system of practices, disciplines, and relationships that keep us aligned with God’s heart and ways. A few examples include:

  1. Prayer and Devotion
    • Setting aside daily time to speak with God and immerse yourself in His Word.
    • Keeps you focused on Christ, just as vines cling to the trellis for stability.
  2. Scripture Engagement
    • Reading or studying the Bible isn’t a ritual to check off; it’s discovering God’s character and letting truth shape your mind and behavior.
  3. Community and Accountability
    • We need trusted friends or a small group who encourage us, challenge us, and help keep our spiritual lives healthy.
  4. Service and Outreach
    • Fruit isn’t for the vine’s own consumption. Using your gifts and time to bless others is where real growth blossoms.
  5. Reflection and Pruning
    • Regularly asking God to remove unhealthy habits or attitudes. Pruning is uncomfortable but essential for producing vibrant fruit.

Rooted to Rise

The ultimate goal isn’t just to grow a little; it’s to be Rooted to Rise. Deep roots in Christ keep us steady, and a solid trellis of spiritual disciplines helps us rise above life’s pitfalls. When our faith is well-supported, we become people of substance—able to stand firm in trials and bear fruit that refreshes others.

Imagine the difference a well-built trellis could make in your daily life. Instead of letting discouragement or busyness choke your faith, you’re lifted up toward God’s presence each day. Over time, you’ll see greater joy, stability, and a newfound capacity to love and serve others.

A Call to Action

  1. Build Your Trellis
    • Identify one or two key supports you can put into action this week (e.g., set a dedicated prayer time, join a small group, etc.).
    • Don’t settle for haphazard growth; let God’s Word and community shape you intentionally.
  2. Refuse to Remain on the Ground
    • When you sense anxiety, negativity, or spiritual apathy creeping in, remember this is your chance to rise above.
    • Lean on the disciplines that keep you lifted: prayer, Scripture, fellowship, and service.

Rooted to Rise isn’t just a catchy phrase. It’s a way of life—one where you build a spiritual trellis of solid practices, cling to Jesus as your source, and bear fruit that blesses everyone around you. May you grow deeper, stand taller, and see your life flourish for God’s glory.

If you have questions or want to learn more about establishing a spiritual trellis, reach out to us or consider visiting a local church community where you can connect with others on this journey.

God is Good?

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God is still good, even when it’s hard to hold on to that truth.

In this season, I’m learning a few things about grief, pain, and God’s presence in the midst of it all:

✨ Presence over perfection – Sometimes all we can do is show up, broken and raw. God meets us there, not in our perfection, but in our presence.

✨ Authenticity over prosperity – Life’s true richness is found in being real, especially when we’re hurting. God honors our honesty, not just our success.

✨ Grief is evidence of our capacity to love deeply – This pain we feel is a reminder of the love we carry. Loss hurts because love runs deep.

✨ Isolation isn’t the answer – It’s tempting to retreat, but connection with others is the way forward, even in the darkest times.

✨ Do it with pain – Healing doesn’t erase the pain. But even through the ache, we keep going, finding strength and meaning in each step.

Through all of it, I’m reminded that God’s goodness isn’t dependent on our circumstances. He’s good in our joy and in our grief. And even here, I believe that.

“Unlock Your Best Life: 5 Must-Do’s Before Life-Changing Decisions”

Faith, Family, Fitness, General

We all face choices daily, from what to wear or eat to more profound decisions that can alter the course of our lives. Let’s talk about those big life decisions, the ones that demand more than a flip of a coin.

Life decisions are the game-changers, choices that have the power to shape the trajectory of your existence. Before we dive in, it’s worth mentioning that life circumstances, like the curveballs of death or sickness, often come uninvited – we’ll save that discussion for another time.

Your choices shape your destiny. 🌟 #LifeDecisions #EmpowerYourChoice" Share on X
  1. Prayer & Spiritual Guidance: Pause for prayer or seek spiritual guidance. Connecting with your inner self and seeking divine insight can provide peace as you navigate uncharted waters. It’s a moment to find clarity amid the uncertainties.
  2. Core Values Check: Reflect on your core values. What truly matters to you in life? Are your choices in alignment with these values? Understanding your fundamental principles can be a compass guiding you through tough decisions.
  3. Outcome Investigation: Count the cost. Delve into the potential outcomes of your decision, weighing both the positive and negative aspects. How might it impact not just your life but your community? This foresight helps you make an informed decision.
  4. Emotional State Assessment: Take a moment to assess your emotional state. Is fear, stress, or impulse driving your decision? Ensure you’re in a calm and rational mindset before taking the plunge.
  5. Talk it Over: Don’t go it alone. Reach out to trusted friends or family members. Discussing your decision with others can provide valuable insights and emotional support. Different perspectives might unveil aspects you hadn’t considered.

And then, when you’ve done the groundwork, make your decision. Own it. Whether you decide to take the leap or stay put, remember, the power lies in your choice to make it right for you. It’s your journey, after all.

"In the realm of life decisions, emotions can be the navigator or the storm. Take a moment, assess, talk it over with loved ones, and then choose your course wisely. ⚖️ #DecisionMaking #EmotionalIntelligence" Share on X

Transformative Leadership

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Embrace Inward-Out approaches for excellence!

In the heart of my yard stands a slender, 40ft tree. Its branches are not extravagant, gracing the sky with only a few, yet its significance runs deep. This unassuming tree holds a remarkable secret: its strength emanates from within.

This truth mirrors the essence of leadership. Our resilience should bloom from the depths of our being, a strength cultivated within and radiating outward. In the hushed moments, we find solace in our inner bond with God, a wellspring of strength forged in the battles hidden from plain sight. As leaders, nurturing our souls becomes paramount. Just as our core gains vigor, its influence unfurls to the world beyond.

Often, we invest faith in our appearance, talents, and charisma, neglecting that they stand on the foundation of our core. Yet, a robust core births pure functionality. 

There existed another tree by my office—a picture of vitality. Adorned in leaves, it thrived. Then, a storm struck, toppling it from its pedestal. Amidst the clearing, a revelation emerged: the heart of the tree was rotten.

Scripture reminds us, “They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.” (Psalms 1:3) Just as these trees flourish by the river, so do leaders prosper when anchored within, ready to weather any storm.

Let’s remember, it’s from the center that authenticity flows. True leadership starts within, where roots intertwine with character, values, and conviction. When nurtured, this inner strength manifests in a life of purpose, impact, and lasting legacy.

“Finding the Silver Lining: Overcoming Pessimism and Embracing Hope”

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“Pessimism: because why settle for just being unhappy when you can be consistently disappointed by everything? #Sarcasm #Pessimism”


Someone recently asked me if I thought I was more optimistic or pessimistic. Of course, I proudly said, “I’m optimistic!” This got me thinking about the truth of pessimism.


IT’S FREAKING EASY TO BE PESSIMISTIC! Yes, I was yelling… at the HALF-EMPTY cup! The entire culture sets us up to look for the negative. It may just be me, but a negative outlook is a default. Oh wait, that isn’t very optimistic!


So how do we see the silver lining to the DARK CLOUD THAT STAYS OVER MY HEAD? Why Am I yelling? Oh boy!

Heres a few thoughts to overcome pessimism and embrace hope!

  1. Practice gratitude: Make a habit of focusing on the people and things you are thankful for and expressing gratitude for them.
  2. Reframe negative thoughts: When you have a negative thought, challenge it by looking for evidence that supports a more positive perspective.
  3. Surround yourself with positivity: Seek out people, activities, and environments that uplift you and bring you joy.
  4. Focus on solutions, not problems: Instead of dwelling on what’s wrong, concentrate on finding solutions to problems.
  5. Engage in self-care: Take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being through activities like exercise, meditation, and hobbies.

“You cannot control what happens to you in life, but you can control your attitude towards it.” – Unknown

Are you more optimistic or pessimistic? Thoughts?

Are you Inspired?

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Inspiration! 

Most people, when encountered with something great someone else has built, walk away inspired. 

Honest people say maybe I can do it too. 

And they walk away feeling encouraged. 

But watch out! 

Some look at what you have built and say I want it. 

I want what you have, And I will do whatever it takes to take it away from you!

They don’t want to do the hard work of building. They want to reap your rewards.  

When my reality is your dream how do you respond? 

When my dream is your reality, I will honor you and be inspired.  

Who inspires you?  

Dating your Spouse?

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Do you date your spouse? Think about this old verse in a popular song, “You gotta dance with the one that brought you!’ Ok, maybe it wasn’t a popular song but follow the thought. Dating got you and yours to the marriage alter. Dating will help sustain a level of health in your marriage.
Here are a few essentials of a fantastic date night.
Schedule it – everyone is so busy, and we must prioritize the importance of our relationships. Write it down! Send your spouse an invitation. Highlight the calendar.

Anticipate it – talk about how much fun it’s going to be. Send each other messages leading up to the date.
“I can’t wait to spend the evening out with you!”

Protect it – something always comes up. While a few things require you to reschedule, those things must be on a concise list.

Wisdom: don’t try to work things out on date night. Don’t use a date night to end a disagreement. Enjoy your time – plan to laugh, make out, dream, or stare into each other’s eyes. Focus on enjoying each other. You may need a predate night to talk things out.

Here is a great date night idea.
Schedule a trip to a town or city nearby that you usually don’t visit.
Look for a new restaurant and enjoy some fresh surroundings.

When was your last date night?

PSA Cycling 

Family, Fitness, General

Everybody is in a hurry. Speeding tickets prove this. It seems some believe the road is made of lava, and the longer they stay on it, the worse things will be. I get it. I can be impatient. But when it comes to life and death, I think we all should and would choose life. 

So, because I value your life and mine, I wanted to give a little 

PSA concerning cyclists. 

I ride. I cycle. My main exercise activity includes miles on the road riding a two-wheeled, chain-driven, human-powered machine. 

BTW, my name is Steven. I have a family that I love. So that you know, I have three beautiful grandbabies. This is very important because, just like you, I want to make it home safe. 

As a cyclist, I’m not trying to impede your progress of getting off the lava; I’m just trying to enjoy my chosen form of exercise. 

The most important idea you can embrace is that every cyclist has a name and a story.

When you, in your car, come upon me on my bike (cyclist) or a group of cyclist (peloton), here are a few things to do. 

Give me room. Minimally 3 feet, but moving to the other lane is much better if it is safe to do so. Oh, and you don’t have to show off your loud mufflers as you pass.  https://georgiabikes.org/resources/georgia-bike-laws/

Passing on hills or sharp curves is dangerous for everyone. If you can’t see what’s coming, be patient and enjoy the ride in your car with AC, watching me struggle up a hill in the heat. 

Fourways and roundabouts. Simple, give me the lane. It won’t take much time; I want to move through quickly, and I appreciate this one. 

BTW, blowing your horn don’t make my legs move faster. If you see me on the road and want to wave, great, I will wave back. Your horn can startle me and cause a wreck. If you must blow that horn do it after you pass me. 

Flick me off.

I get it you may be having a bad day, and I and my spandex add to it. So I receive your finger with compassion and wish you the best. Just give me a little room. 

And if you are just an angry person and want to cause issues with me on my bike, please know you and your car win every time. Also, listen to the song #TryJesus -Tobe Nwigwe

Remember, my name is Steven, and I Love my family and life, most likely just like you. 

#everycyclisthasaname 

What can you do to make the roads safe for everyone?