April was tough. For me, it’s a month of joy and celebration that was also marked by significant loss this year. I am still feeling a bit disoriented as I navigate grief and overwhelm, while still finding gratitude in God’s blessings and in recognizing the miracle of each new day. I am learning to be more present, less perfect, and even more tethered to God in this season. And will continue to water the seeds He’s given me, in hopeful expectation of what’s to bloom.

At the top of April, I started a series here on identity, but the final two posts in that series remain in my drafts. At the time I was set to publish them, they felt premature and undone. Like there was more that God was still working on in me before I could share. So, I chose not to release them, yet. This month, I plan to revisit those rough thoughts on personal growth and perception, and ask God how to prepare them for publication.

I also intend to take better care of myself in May. I have spent the last several weeks, and will spend the next couple of weeks, caring for and serving others. And I realize how it’s already begun to deplete my own emotional and spiritual reserves. I share this because it might just be the reminder that you need to care for yourself first in this season. Will you join me in the pursuit of restoration and radical self-love this month? Let me know below.

xo, m.

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

— Psalm 34:18

During life's tougher chapters—those times when grief weighs heavy and anxiety clouds our vision of the future—it's critical that we remind ourselves of the promises nestled in the words of scripture. Psalm 34:18 offers such a promise: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

This verse is a tender assurance that in moments of sorrow or overwhelming change, we are not forgotten. It speaks directly to those of us navigating the rough terrain of loss or facing the daunting unknown of what’s next in our lives. The Lord’s closeness in these times isn't just a passive presence; it's an active engagement alongside us even in our deepest struggles.

Embracing this promise means resting in the fact that our pain and our challenges are seen, and that help is at hand. It invites us to lean not on our own understanding but on the strength that comes from God’s divine companionship. In practical terms, this might look like giving ourselves permission to slow down, to mourn, to sit with our feelings without judgment, and to seek support when the burden feels too heavy to bear alone.

Practicing self-care in these seasons is essential. It might be as simple as ensuring enough rest, nourishing our bodies with good food, or finding moments for activities that replenish our spirits. And as always, recognizing and documenting gratitude daily will transform our perspective—helping us to see beyond our immediate circumstances to the bigger picture of God’s ongoing work in, and through, our lives.

So, if you find yourself feeling brokenhearted or crushed in spirit, recite this psalm. Let it remind you that you are not alone in your struggles. Allow it to inspire you to practice self-care and gratitude. In the midst of everything, remember that God is close, and His help is real. Let's hold onto that truth, together.

I can’t stop eating fruit. All the good stuff is in season starting in May — blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, and mangoes. And all of it has gone from flavorless (bitter, even) to sweet, ripe, and juicy. And the best is yet to come because I know the berries are only getting better in the summer months, especially those raspberries, and then the peaches will be ready! I’m excited to hit up my local farmers market and get in on all the fresh and local goodness. Thank you, apples, pears, and oranges for your services, but berries are back!

Friends, I pray that you find simple pleasures in your daily lives this week that you point you both to self care and gratitude. Until, next time, be well.

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