Seeds

Posted on by beautybeyondbones

One of my most favorite parts of being an actor is telling stories.

Every show, every film – each is the baby of a writer who had something to say.

Twelve Years a Slave. Woman in Gold. Forrest Gump. Gone With the Wind. The Sound Of Music. Granted, some stories are more *ahem* – sophisticated – than others (I’m looking at you Billy Madison) but it’s a story nonetheless.

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I mean, don’t get me wrong…I like a good imaginary Mr. Penguin just like the next guy. Tally who who! Sabadoo!

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But I especially enjoy stories with a little more — depth.

I didn’t really make a big huh-bub about it on here, but just a few days ago, BBB reached 10,000 followers.

Which, to be completely honest, is really crazy to think about.

I am so completely grateful and humbled that you guys would care to read my story.

I have never been blogging “for the numbers” – BBB has always been a place for me to just share my journey, and all God has done for me, in the hopes that maybe one person might find hope or encouragement or solace from life’s storms here. That juuuust maybe I could be like Billy Madison and say, “You ain’t cool unless you pee your pants.” You know — really be there for someone 🙂

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But I wanted to just share something that my family did to celebrate 10,000 that really meant a lot.

They sent me a shadow box with a screen shot of my little counter ticker reading 10,000, and then they wrote words around it that they think describe my blog. Such as, witty, honest, etc…


But the coolest thing, was that they then filled the shadow box with 10,000 seeds.

Each one signifying one of you.


And I hesitated to share about this because I didn’t want to sound like, “Hey guys! I’m so great, look at all the seeds I’m planting. I’m so awesome, I must have ESPN or something…”

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Because let me be crystal clear here: That’s not what I think or how I perceive myself.

Especially because I was not the one doing the things — it was God.

But…

Here’s what I do think:

I think each and every one of us “plant seeds” every single time we open up to another person.

Because your story matters.




What you’ve been through matters. That pain you’ve endured. The heartache you’ve experienced. The fear you’ve overcome. The lessons you’ve learned through trials. Those things mean something.

And when you have the courage to share that truth with another person, you never know how it is going to affect them.

Because, let’s be real here: we’re all pretty good at wearing masks. Making it seem like we’ve got our stuff together.

But if we’re being really honest, there are seasons in life when that’s just not the case. Just ask Gretchen Weiners —

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We get it…Brutus was cute too.

But she’s a prime example of the emotional weight we’re carrying and concealing sometimes.

So by you sharing your story, you never know what impact that could have on a person. How, by you being vulnerable, it encourages them to be vulnerable. To be brave. To be strong. To have faith.

And if you ask me, that’s what life’s about.

So anyways. I guess what I really want to say is thank you for allowing me to share my story. For allowing me to be vulnerable and honest, and be received with such love and acceptance and encouragement.

I cannot begin to express how you have positively impacted my life.

And while we’re on the topic of sharing our stories, just this week, Wayne Wells released an episode of his podcast, While I’m Thinking About It, where he interviewed me. It was an honor to be invited to speak with him.

So if you aren’t familiar with my story, or want to hear it from my own voice, I invite you to head over to his podcast to take a listen.


Mark 5:19 Then Jesus said, “Go…tell them all the things the Lord has done for you.”

You got it, dude.

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What’s your story? 

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beautybeyondbones

BBB: Because we're all recovering from something. // For speaking/business inquiries: beautybeyondbones@yahoo.com

223 thoughts on “Seeds”

  3. Congratulations BBB! God and I’m sure all your followers know that you deserve it. Continue to spread His love and your faith in Him, and God will greatly bless you. Btw, that shadow box looks super awesome! 😉

    Liked by 3 people

  4. Happy Thursday!

    I know for once I got here before the multitudes 😉 but let me just join the soon-to-be 10,000-strong throng saying “Dude, that shadow box idea is so stellar!”

    And I love that thought; every encounter seeds are given, often both ways, and let’s not forget that not everyone has nice seeds. So, thank-you for cultivating love, beauty and kindness in a world where weeds are so much more common-place. Praise Jesus he has such an audience in you!

    Have a super duper evening! (:

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Hey hey Carson! Aw thanks:) yeah my family came up with that idea together. I was so touched! And wow, thank you for such a kind note. You’ve absolutely made my night:) hugs and love to you friend. Happy Thursday indeed! Xox

      Liked by 1 person

  5. I’ve only been reading your blogs for a short while as well as writing my own and trying to figure out the direction I’m going with them.
    My blog seems to be taking in a life of its own. Completely not where I thought it would go. However, like you it is my hope that it will inspire, give hope, and plant seeds in the hearts of those who read it.
    Congratulations on your accomplishments!!!!

    Liked by 4 people

  9. You are one of my favorite blogs that I follow. I’m going to check out that podcast. Congrats on 10,000! Quite an accomplishment!

    Liked by 4 people

  10. Congratulations! You’re making an impact, and it’s really something to hit such a huge milestone. This post sure hit all the right notes. It really shows what a positive and humble person you are. Keep on keeping on!

    Liked by 4 people

      1. Wow what an amazing achievement to have 10,000 followers and how beautiful that your family gave you 10,000 seeds to celebrate. Writing is a seed and by sharing our stories we can plant those seeds in other people even though we have no idea how they will grow. I thought of you this week as I was trying to restart my freelance journalism career which I had to abandon for 11 years because of my cocaine addiction and mental health problems. I kind of prayed, although I’m not sure God exists…Keep sharing your wonderful story your faith is so strong.

        Liked by 1 person

      2. Thank you so much Caroline! 🙂 that really means a lot! Yeah, my family was so kind to do that. I definitely don’t take them for granted. You’re right – writing can be a powerful tool. I’m so glad you’re taking the steps to restart that career! I’ll definitely keep that in my prayers 🙂 He’s always listening and wants to delight His children 🙂 hugs and love my friend xox

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  13. Beautifully said!! This is exactly what my site is about-stepping In the Arena and having the courage to share our stories- we all have them and they are all amazing in their own right. Congratulations on 10,000!! 🙂

    Liked by 4 people

  14. Thanks for telling your story. The more we tell our version of this great big reality we live in, the more chances there are to come together as a universal whole.

    Liked by 4 people

  15. Great post 🙂 Regardless of whether or not it is the director or writer or actor or just an average joe, all of us have a story to tell that is bound to interest at least somebody. Hey it could even be from a multiple point of view (i.e. Rashomon), but each one I think makes us laugh and cry in different ways depending on what it is 🙂 Anyway, keep up the great work as always 🙂

    Liked by 4 people

  17. Quite an accomplishment! I’m a brand new blogger who’s proud to be a seed in your shadow box. Your courage and selfless desire to help others is beyond encouraging. It’s easy to see your heart is in the right place. Thanks for encouraging me.

    Liked by 3 people

  19. Congrats! Having 10,000 followers is something worth celebrating. Way to go! I love hearing your story and appreciate your honesty. You are helping so many people who face similar struggles, which gives your pain meaning and purpose. God bless!

    Liked by 3 people

  20. Reblogged this on In the Arena and commented:
    The miles we’ve run and the scars we’ve endured are what help guide us on our path, ‘plant seeds’ and connect with others on a deeper level. Beautifully written and worth the read.

    Liked by 1 person

  22. Well, look at God! Congratulations, young lady. You certainly use the grace God has given you to be transparent. You certainly inspire me and may you have 10,000 more people to tell of the goodness of Jesus! Hugs☺️

    Liked by 4 people

  23. Congrats on the 10,000 followers. You are inspiring and you are making a difference in many lives by blogging your story. It was also really nice of your family to make you a shadow box to celebrate your achievement! Also great interview podcast! Keep up the great work 🙂

    Liked by 3 people

  24. Glory to God, beautiful, and such a blessing for me. Hugs my sister, May God continue to use you, as you continue to be faithful.

    Liked by 3 people

  28. Congratulations to you, you’re so incredibly inspiring and I love your story and the impact you have on people. And yes, I agree, all our stories count! Hugs and warmest wishes to you. xo

    Liked by 2 people

      2. ❤️❤️❤️ (and I hate to be all…I don’t know, but my name is actually not Nicole! 😬 right now it’s just BBB. One day I’ll work up the courage to share, but for now, it’s just BBB) 🙂 hugs and love xox

        Liked by 1 person

  29. I love that your family celebrated your truth, your journey, your honesty and that I’ve found you out here in the bloggoverse as well — your story, your kindness, your dedication to your truth is humbling to read and rewarding to reflect on. Thank you for not letting your story stay inside, but sharing it!

    Liked by 2 people

  30. OMG!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so happy for you! 10,000 followers, that is quite an accomplishment, and I acknowledge you for your commitment to share your story, and to serve. And your blog touched my heart….and made me laugh (esp Billy Madison and ESPN) …. and reminded me of the value that we’re all creating here. Thank you, thank you. Have a wonderful weekend. ❤

    Liked by 3 people

  31. Funny how God works.. He’s been nudging me about this very topic– being open and vulnerable, being a voice, which is something that is hard for me to do.. and here it is showing up everywhere I go.. thank you for sharing your heart and allowing Him to work through you.. many blessings..

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Thank you so much! Yeah they’re a wonderful family. I guess they had a brainstorming session on how to celebrate it:) they’re so great. I don’t take that for granted. Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox

      Liked by 1 person

  33. I’ve only recently followed your blog but I have to say it’s totally awesome. Thank you for doing you. Also I really liked the quote “it’s ok to stand out that’s how the lost become found” that is so true and encouraging.

    Liked by 3 people

  35. Well done in a massive milestone! What a beautiful gift from your family in recognising this. I know your blog has been part of your healing journey, but you’ve inspired and encouraged so many of us, some with ED and some without. Bless you, x

    Liked by 3 people

  37. Congratulations on 10,000 followers! That is amazing! And I can totally see why! Your blog is awesome, and you can totally see how much it means to you! Sharing our story is never easy, but people like you make it seem effortless! =)

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thank you so much 🙂 Aw that’s so kind of you to say. I must say, I do love this little blog. And I love the friends I’ve made because of it. 🙂 Thanks for your wonderfully encouraging note. hugs and love xox

      Like

  40. This is such an inspiring post, I just loved reading it. And huge congratulations on your 10,000 followers! What an amazing achievement, I love your blog posts and am a regular reader so from your readers to you, thanks for sharing such enjoyable and honest posts! x

    Liked by 2 people

  41. Congrats on the 10,000 followers!!! I’m so happy for you. Your family was really sweet by giving you that shadow box. It’s beautiful. I love reading your posts. Keep doing what you do! 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

  45. Absolutely wonderful! Really and truly, your blog has always been wonderful, but I swear it gets better each and every time I read! Thank you for allowing yourself to be vulnerable, to be so open and honest, uplifting and encouraging; it really means a lot! May God continue to keep you and bless you abundantly!

    Liked by 2 people

  50. I can never forget going to church one Sunday for ladies breakfast and really witnessing a story of miraculous healing of anorexia. Their faith and their belief in Christ was the key… thank you and God bless you for shining your light

    Liked by 2 people

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