Santini Serenity

When life throws its toughest challenges our way, we often turn to wisdom and courage for strength. These qualities are vital in navigating dark times. But what if there's another tool worth recognizing—laughter? Surprisingly, humor and levity are not just lighthearted escapes. They are powerful allies that boost resilience, improve mental health, and help us face obstacles head-on. In tough moments, laughter can be just as essential as wisdom and bravery, if not more. "Let the laughter come, even if it has not been heard for a very long time, especially if times are hard and the future uncertain. Laughter is as important in adversity as wisdom and courage. -Steven Charleston" I got my sense of humor from my deceased parents.  My Dad frequently told jokes; some of the things he said 20+ years ago would be considered inappropriate by today's standards.  My Mom's sense of humor was always kind and silly; never offensive.  The Psychological Benefits of Laughter in D...

Marriage is a sacred bond, and the Bible offers clear guidance on how couples should treat each other. Among those instructions, 1 Corinthians 7:3-5 stands out because it addresses intimacy, respect, and spiritual unity. These verses remind us that healthy marriages blend love, mutual support, and a shared walk with God. Today, understanding what these scriptures mean helps couples build stronger, more Christ-centered relationships. Historical and Cultural Background Corinth was a busy, diverse city during Paul’s time, full of trade, pagan worship, and different social norms. Marriage customs varied, often influenced by pagan practices that did not prioritize faithfulness or mutual respect. Religious practices that involved idol worship sometimes clashed with Christian values. These conditions made it essential for Paul to address Christian couples about maintaining their commitments and spiritual priorities. Apostle Paul's Overall Message in 1 Corinthians 7 Paul's teaching...

Living in a world that often sets strict standards for beauty can feel like being caught in a trap. For plus-size women, society sometimes sends mixed messages — you're told to love yourself but also pressured to fit into certain molds. These conflicting messages can make loving your reflection harder than it should be. But feeling beautiful isn’t about size; it’s about how you see yourself. When you embrace self-love, your confidence shines brighter than any number on a scale. And that glow isn’t just for you — it deepens your connection with your partner. This journey is about feeling stunning in your own skin, both for your happiness and your relationship’s strength.  I will admit that I've not felt very comfortable in my own skin but something sparked in me, perhaps my husband's absence making my heart grow fonder, that inspired me to appreciate by God given body. "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one...

Social movements have shaped history by giving voice to those who seek justice, equality, and peace. Many of these movements are inspired not just by anger or loss but by deep-rooted values like love, compassion, and humility. These core principles help create stronger bonds, promote real understanding, and bring lasting change. When based on kindness and humility, a movement can heal wounds and unify diverse groups. Throughout history, many movements guided by love and compassion have shown us how powerful these values can be in transforming lives and societies. "We need movements rooted in love right now, movements powered not by difference and exclusion and punishment, but by common ground, compassion, humility, healthy boundaries, patience and healing. - adrienne maree brown"* The Role of Love as a Catalyst for Social Change Love isn’t just a feeling. It acts as a force that can challenge injustice and bring people together. When love motivates activism, it pushes indiv...

The topic of "self protection is a lie" came up while listening to the Seek the Edge Podcast by Kelsey with Xpand Your Limits .  Kelsey was giving her insight related to the book she started reading titled "The Mountain is You."  The type of "self-protection" that Kelsey spoke of is related to protecting yourself from fear.  She related this back to the Xpand Your Limits event for women back on May 17th that included a run (1 mile or 5K) and/or a powerlifting meet.  I participated in the powerlifting meet and you can read my recap in this blog post . If I stayed home where it's safe rather than participating in the powerlifting meet, I would have never failed 2 back squats and 1 bench press in front of hundreds of people.  I also would have never surprised myself by executing a 175 pound deadlift.  I also likely would have never done any powerlifting training. I spent so much of my life staying in my comfort zone.  While it's wasn't easy, doing...

Cheerful giving is more than just donating money or time; it’s about sharing kindness with a smile. When you give joyfully, it boosts your happiness and can change others’ lives in powerful ways. Increasingly, people are discovering that giving with a happy heart feels good and makes the world brighter. This article explores why cheerful giving matters, how it benefits everyone involved, and practical ways to make kindness a daily habit. The Psychological and Emotional Benefits of Giving Research shows that giving makes us happier and less stressed. Known as the "warm glow" effect, giving triggers a feel-good response in our brain. When you help someone, your mood often improves instantly. Experts say that giving isn’t just good for others; it’s a strong form of self-care. It can turn a tough day into a better one and create lasting feelings of contentment. How Cheerful Giving Strengthens Communities Joyful philanthropy brings people together. When neighbors share resourc...