Iron Rod Press Newsletter Vol. 1, No. 12

Blessings of Diversity

September 16, 2025 - I want to let you in on a not-so-little secret. My third book, "Embracing God's Timing: The Best is Yet to Come," comes out on Amazon in two days, on Thursday, September 18 at 6pm! Click below to pre-order the Kindle version, or save the link for Thursday.

[Note: This newsletter and accompanying video were scheduled weeks ago. As many of us are still reeling from the death of Charlie Kirk on UVU campus last Wednesday, I found it interesting that this would be what I had prepared for this week. I hope it will help us heal and find community among others, no matter how alike or different we may be.]

Whether in life or death, diversity can be a blessing.

Yet why do we sometimes resist the diversity around us? I suppose part of the reason is a lack of understanding; a fear of the unknown. We often avoid people and situations that are foreign to us.

But isn't that where the beauty lies? How boring life would be if we were all the same. If there was only one type of flower or animal or tree.

As we open ourselves up to the variety of life around us, and do so without fear, we will see the blessings that God intended.

If you generally associate with people who share your same beliefs and background, here are some suggestions to bring these blessings into your life.

1. Volunteer at a shelter or a food bank. For ideas, go to justserve,org.
2. Join a book club outside your immediate neighborhood. Check with your local library.
3. Try a new ethnic restaurant.
4. Attend a celebration for a culture not found in your ancestral line.
5. Learn a few phrases in a new language that could help you communicate with refugees in your area.

We don't need to fear the unknown. We can expand our interests and knowledge to embrace the beauty and blessings of diversity.

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So until next time, always keep your eye on the One that loves you most. Ciao!

Janine

Click on the button below to a receive a free sample of my second book, "Stones to Shine in Darkness: Seeking the Light of Christ in Our Lives."

Ready to order "He Marked the Path," "Stones to Shine in Darkness," or my new book, "Embracing God's Timing"? Click on the Amazon link below.

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