I’d Rather Write You a Short Letter

Dear YOU,

Hello. My name is Lucinda and I am a Letter and Card Writer.

I spend way too much on stamps and stationery. My Daddy wrote letters his entire life, and I guess I picked up the habit.

I happen to agree with John Donne: “Letters mingle souls.” And I do so want to connect with your soul in meaningful ways.

During my intentional digital fast in January, I spent time thinking and praying about this weekly blog that pops into your email every Wednesday morning:

  • How can my shared words help meet a need in your life?
  • Is there a different format that would be more reader-friendly?
  • How shall I communicate without seeming bothersome?

In the midst of these musings I was studying Paul’s many letters in the Bible! Here is what he wrote to the people of Corinth:

“Your very lives are a LETTER that anyone can read by just looking at you. Christ himself wrote it – not with ink, but with God’s loving spirit; not chiseled into stone, but carved into human lives – and we publish it.”  2 Corinthians 3.3. MSG

Not only do I love words, and stringing them together to reach out through letters (and other ways), but God’s Word says I AM a LETTER myself. Yikes! Our very lives are letters of recommendation from God to anyone in search of strength, perseverance, hope, purpose, delight, wisdom, and so much more.

That’s a big responsibility, because I know how utterly inadequate and imperfect I am in shining the Light of Christ.

“We wouldn’t think of writing this kind of letter about ourselves. Only God can write such a letter… It’s written with Spirit on spirit, his life on our lives!” 2 Corinthians 3.5-6 MSG

Only God.

You need to know that in this season, I’m willing to share my authentic life and learnings with anyone who will listen. So, I’ve decided to write you LETTERS – “Letters from a Seasoned Soul” — sharing experiences, challenges, what I’m learning, and (always) how God’s Word intersects with our ordinary life.

To whom will you write a note or card this week – just because?

Thank you for continuing to encourage me – I’m grateful for your friendship and prayers more than you can imagine.

Every Blessing, Lucinda

“Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity & Strength”

©2022 Lucinda Secrest McDowell      www.LucindaSecrestMcDowell.com

Lucinda Secrest McDowell is a storyteller and seasoned mentor who engages both heart and mind while “Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity & Strength.” A graduate of Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary, she has authored 16 books including “Soul Strong – 7 Keys to a Vibrant Life” , “Life-Giving Choices – 60 Days to What Matters Most,” “God’s Purpose for You,” and “The Courage to Write.” (Purchasing my books here benefits me as an Amazon associate.) She writes from “Sunnyside” cottage in New England and shares encouraging words weekly at LucindaSecrestMcDowell.com

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Feeling called to write or speak?
I’d love to personally invite you to join our creative community at “reNEW - spiritual retreat for writers & speakers” held at Camp of the Woods (Speculator NY) April (27)28-30, 2023! Registrations are pouring in and we’d love to save a space for you. Click HERE for all sorts of information and phone COTW 518-548-4311 EXT 0 to register. Pricing (includes lodging, meals and program) begins at $359.65.

10 Comments

  1. Lynne on February 1, 2023 at 12:18 pm

    Loved this Lucinda! Bless you!

    💗 Lynne

  2. Jennifer Sakata on February 1, 2023 at 12:23 pm

    Good morning from Central Illinois, Lucinda!

    I do t always get to read your letters but glad I did this morning! Was literally JUST yesterday writing for my blog highlighting my podcast about Paul’s LETTER to the Philippians and choosing joy.

    Anyway made me smile to think of us writing alongside each other!

    I was so hoping (and even planning) to come to reNew this year in April but alas my son’s confirmation is that same weekend! Glad he’s being confirmed but disappointed I won’t be able to join you all! I’m sure it will be quite the weekend!!

    Anyway thanks for your letter!

  3. Jill on February 1, 2023 at 12:32 pm

    Love keeping up with you through your blog.
    I love receiving a written note! You’re so right, it brings a deeper connection. Someone’s handwriting is a glimpse into their soul! Keep writing!!
    Blessings for this day, Jill

  4. Thomas Michael McDowell on February 1, 2023 at 1:16 pm

    Yes, may God the Holy Trinity so dwell in our hearts by faith that we are true letters of our living Lord.

  5. Maureen Miller on February 1, 2023 at 1:31 pm

    This is beautiful. Like you, I find great insight in Paul’s letters. And I look forward to reading yours! ❤️

  6. Maggie+Rowe on February 1, 2023 at 1:44 pm

    Welcome back! You definitely are a seasoned soul, Cindy, and a beautiful writer. I look forward to your weekly letters.

  7. Debbie Basile on February 1, 2023 at 1:57 pm

    So glad you’re back! You are a blessing and make me smile 😊

  8. Linda Miller on February 1, 2023 at 3:56 pm

    You are such a treasure and inspiration! By your example, I am going to drop little notes into the lives of people I know. Good thing I bought Forever stamps ahead! Thank you.

  9. Pat Langley on February 1, 2023 at 5:13 pm

    Love this insight, Cindy! I, too, like to write notes
    and cards of encouragement. It’s so true ho it can
    lift some poor soul’s spirits.
    Thank you for the blessing you are to many.

  10. Lisa Larsen Hill on February 2, 2023 at 12:16 am

    Loved this Lucinda! My mom taught me the same. Always nice to get something in the mail.
    Look forward to reading your letters here.
    And agree with all the above, you are a blessing to so many!

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