Category: hope

hope

The Peace of God

Shaun Bradford

Good Morning! While I was reading my journal entry from August 10, 2017, this particular statement stood out—

“I let it all go. I actually just gave up on it, and a peace came over me.”

This statement reminded me of the scripture I have on a note that’s been in my wallet since September 2014 (shared several blogs ago).

Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬

At the time, I was going through a difficult time, financially. According to my journal entry, several bills were due and I didn’t have any money for gas; didn’t know how I would commute back and forth to work that week. When I tell you I was going through it! Just reading what I was going through seems surreal, as do so many other difficult times. When I write about gratitude and feeling truly blessed, it’s because I am no longer where I used to be. Y’all, I made it through. Didn’t think I would, but I did.

When I decided to release the stress and stop trying to solve everything, a sense of peace came over me. After a while, everything worked out, and I was able to move past the situation. A few months later, I started my first consulting business, and a few months after that, I received a promotion.

Over time, I have learned to let go of things that are beyond my control, things that only God can do. When I do, I always experience this indescribable peace. Not only is it a peace of mind, but my entire space becomes peaceful. It’s a peace that I can only describe as the peace of God.

I pray that you have a peaceful day. My daughter is coming to visit so I’m excited. Can’t wait to give her a hug and love on her for a while.🥰

Love you,

Shaun

Funny side note — Just thought of this as I wrote, “Love you.” A few days ago, I saw a post that said there’s a significant difference between saying “I love you” and “Love you.” It said “I love you” is like the Eiffel Tower and “Love you” is like a rundown power structure. Well, know this, my “Love you” is the finest of all structures in existence. It’s from the heart and comes with hugs, prayers, love, and a sprinkle of hope. Now, “I love you,” is only reserved for a select few. That’s the crème of the crème. Lol

hope

Still Standing

Shaun Bradford

Y’all, I am still here. Still standing!! When I tell you God is so wonderful. I can hear Marvin Sapp singing–

Here I am, I’m still standing
Here I am, after all I’ve been through 
I’ve survived every toil, every snare
I’m alive, I’m alive
Here I am

“Here I Am” by Marvin Sapp

If you’re reading this, YOU are still here and still standing, too. Whatever was meant to destroy you, couldn’t. You’re STILL here!! Love you!♥️ ~Shaun

Covered!
hope

My Treasures

Shaun Bradford

Good Morning! I remember a scene from the movie “Richie Rich” where the thieves were eager to steal what was inside the Rich’s vault. They couldn’t wait to get their hands on the Riches’ treasures. They were so disappointed when they opened vault and found sentimental memorabilia instead of jewels and money. It was such a heartwarming scene.

Anyhoo, I’m the Riches. My treasures are the numerous letters and cards I have collected since high school—over 35 years worth. We wrote a lot back then. My journals, photo albums, invitations, and other memorabilia from special occasions and events—all treasures. I have old magazines like Essence, Ebony, Jet, Sister 2 Sister, GQ, Time and National Geographic. Treasures. Old emails, text messages and voicemails. I have it set to where they are never deleted unless I delete them manually. My Facebook memories are even treasures. Some posts I share just so I can see them every year. They’re my treasures. These are my treasures.

Facebook Memory: August 9, 2022

Some treasures cannot be bought. Treasures like– memories made with loved ones; saved letters, notes, or texts; or pictures that continue to warm your heart or make you smile every time you see them. Yes, these treasures cannot be bought.♥️

Believe me, I could have listed more. Many of my treasures aren’t tangible. Smiling

What are some of your treasures—tangible or intangible?

Well, that’s all for now. Praying you have a wonderful day and beautiful weekend.♥️

Love you,

Shaun

hope

Bruce Van Horn

Shaun Bradford

Finally checked the rest of my Facebook memories and came across this gem.

♥️

On August 8, 2018, I shared Bruce Van Horn’s (author and life coach) quote above. Here’s the caption I added when I shared it.

Today’s social media find. I’ve found this to be true. The more I focus on why I want my dreams to come true, the more things fall into place. When I focus on the “hows,” I tend to worry and become anxious. I’m learning more and more to let go and let God handle the “hows.”

Two Questions: Why do you want your dreams to come true? What’s your purpose?

Right now my heart is heavy. I had no idea Bruce Van Horn had passed away. I had been following him for years on Twitter. The last tweet I remember seeing was a video of him letting us know that his cancer had returned, but he was hopeful. Over the last year or so he’d cross my mind and I’d say a little prayer. I do this often when people cross my mind, especially ones I haven’t seen post in a while. Well, after seeing his quote, I decided to check his Facebook page. He passed away last August. His son made his final post on August 27, 2023.

I’m not sure when I began following him or how I stumbled upon his profile, but I’m so grateful I did. He was a very gentle soul. Very kind and encouraging. His words of encouragement help me get through some really tough times. I am forever grateful he crossed my path.

Rest in peace, Bruce Van Horn.🙏🏽🕊️♥️

Shaun