About the Author

A three-time tongue cancer survivor and mama of children from “hard places," Michele Cushatt is a (reluctant) expert on pain, trauma and the deep human need for connection. Her most recent book, "Relentless: The Unshakeable Presence of a God Who Never Leaves", wrestles with the dogged presence and affection of...

(in)side DaySpring: things we love
& you will too!
Find more at DaySpring.com
(in)side DaySpring:
things we love
& you will too!
Find more at
DaySpring.com
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Comments

  1. Perfectly timed encouragement! I have a task on my desk today I am dreading but your article has stopped me in my tracks. It’s mundane & laborious but telling myself it’s to be dreaded does not make it go away. My tune has changed to look at what I get to do & I’ll be able to point to a finished task. Whoo hoo! The steps to finish didn’t change but my self talk makes a huge difference. Thank you for stepping on my toes this morning! Blessings (((0)))

  2. I read this site before I get out of bed every morning. Thanks for your comment, I so relate.
    On another note, what are your thoughts on ghost writing?

  3. This was something my heart and my head needed today. God’s timing is always perfect.

  4. Michele-I have a dear friend who has had mouth cancer multiple times and I’m going to share your name with her. Her journey has been a hard one and she could use the encouragement. Thank YOU! And Happy First Day of March!

    • You are so pretty Lisa! And I can tell your soul is too! Blessings to you and yours!!

    • I am so grateful for YOU, Lisa. The road your friend is walking is often brutal and completely overwhelming. I could not have made it through without the support of a circle of trusted and committed friends, carrying me one day at a time. You’re making a difference!

  5. I needed this today, and this week… In the middle of sorrow I was very blessed. Thank you Michelle, and thank God for this ministry.
    Hugs!

  6. Amen Michele Amen \0/
    This message is so powerful. Our words can make such an awesome difference yet also do such damage!
    My daughter and son-in-law share 5 children. She is the first to admit ” we ALL should have a time out for our words that spout out our mouths! Luckily, we get to apologize.” I recently shared the in-courage blog with her. She will like this one…and relate to the beauty and hard work of the snow. They live in Iowa

    • Hi there, Janet. Unfortunately, I too often have caused damage with my words rather than life and joy. Working on it. 🙂 I probably need your daughter to put me in a time-out too! 🙂

  7. Michele, I relate your snow removal to sanding the 50 year old baseboards in my home! I have certainly worked hard and my muscles and joints have complained a time or two believe me! But what a joy God has given me in being right there with me and with every swish of the sand paper, I thank Him I am able to do it! At first I dreaded it and wanted to whine, but God has totally changed my mind set!! Praise His Goodness for unexpected blessings in the hard work!

    • Whew! Sanding baseboards is NOT easy, especially when the work is done on your hands and knees. Your poor back. 🙂 I love how you found joy even in the hard (and painful!) work before you. It IS a gift to be able to do hard work, even when it’s work we’d rather not do. Thanks for sharing, Kathy!

  8. Michele, thanks for the story you wrote about words that upset self and others. I’ve been through a rough time word wise especially with a daughter who has cancer and now removed from her. Upset times happened at home but I realize things not to say to her or my husband even she’s upset. She had surgery last week and we’re grateful to Jesus who is the physician of the world that healed her thru people praying for her. Also a good doctor who understands what to do with cancer patients. Have a blessed day.

    • Hi, dear Becky. Thank you for sharing vulnerably with us about your daughter’s diagnosis and hard journey. It’s not easy as a mom watching your child suffer! Thank you for allowing us to hold space with you here. You’re not alone!

  9. Michele,

    The old adage “sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt” is but a lie. Words can hurt deeply. That’s why I keep my mouth shut most of time. Then there are times, usually at work (hospital), when I use my words for good. Each day I try to encourage people doing a good job I offer praise to them. Letting them know their efforts are appreciated. It just might be the lift they need to keep on.

    Blessings 🙂