Jessica McCarty, Author

     Recently, I have been struck by the number of people who seem to be going through something. My heart goes out to them knowing that there is need of healing, peace, direction, and provision in their lives. Some of these people I know personally. Some I know more through social media. I always try to whisper a prayer for them when I see their posts and when I think of them. But there just seems to be so many people in trying situations right now.      A couple of weeks ago, I approached one of these lovely couples to hug them and to let them know I was praying for them. The man asked me (with a smile on his face!) how things were coming along for me.  I was floored. What kindness! What grace!      I don't know about you but I find it is so much easier to focus on my own problems. It is easier to brush off someone's unkind treatment and attribute it to their just being a jerk. I came across a quote the other day that I've heard b...

Spring is here!!      I don't know about you but I am so ready for warmer weather! It has been one frigid winter here in Indiana. And the only way Spring gets here is change.      Change is kind of a yucky word. I don't like it. It conjures up images in my mind of possible events that send me on the worry train. But change is a necessary part of life.      Google defines change as: (v.) make or become different; (n.) the act or instance of making of becoming different.      Some change is bad (or at least feels bad) occassionally. Change can also be very good. Change is what has turned my sisters into glowing, unicorn-like creatures. These women are wives, mothers, and talented multitaskers. I always knew they were amazing but sometimes I'm in awe at who they've become and how they tackle life. Get it girls!      The Bible says, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the he...

     A wise woman once told me that relationships are the hardest thing in the world. I think there's a lot of truth to that statement.      Just this week, I've had three conversations with people who are dealing with things involving trust, betrayal, or offense. We've all been there. Even a child who loses a best friend to another "cooler" kid on the playground can tell you that sometimes, people can be mean. Lets be honest. Sometimes, they can be downright nasty.      Years ago at a women's retreat a speaker in one of my workshops said that Christians often confuse forgiveness with trust. Seems simple enough, but for me it was mind-blowing. You see, God does expect us to forgive. But forgiveness does not necessarily equal trust. The speaker in my workshop said that in, for example, an abusive relationship, God would not expect you to put yourself in danger by staying in a situation that isn't safe. Matthew 10:16 says, ". . . be ye ther...

     This week, as one reader to another, I'd like to share some of my favorite reads from the last year or so. Some of them are not as new as others, but they are all books that I enjoyed and recommend. First, some nonfiction . . .       Jump! by Steve Harvey. This book is really small. I mean super small. It is based on a speech he gave to his audience after taping one of his shows. The video went viral. In the book, Steve talks about chasing your dreams and gives examples from his own life experience. It is a motivational and inspiring read. If you don't read often but are looking for something uplifting, then this book is for you!       The Magnolia Story  by Chip and Joanna Gaines & Capital Gaines by Chip Gaines. Both of these books are really great. In The Magnolia Story , Chip and Joanna discuss how they got to be where they are. Capital Gaines  is more from Chip's perspective. You get to hear more about him personal...

     While talking with a friend this week, I mentioned that I struggle with topics for the blog. My friend's advice? To share a little about myself and my writing journey. So, here goes!       Some basic stuff:      Favorite color: blue and green      Favorite food: anything chocolate! (Also, I love coffee!)      Favorite tv show: Once Upon A Time (sadly, the last season)      Current favorite book series: Storm Siren (I've read it twice. I feel round three coming on.)      I was born in Indiana. I still live in the same county. There were four of us kids in the house growing up. I joke that a come from a "very blended" family because I have a number of siblings but we did not all live together.  A throwback photo. I'm the awkward one in the black jacket.    Something a little more recent of just the girls.      In high school, I starting a...