Fresh starts and second chances

The fear that blocks learning is removed by Love—only then can people be reached. –Linda Deir


We all need them, don’t we? And sometimes we get one, just when we need it most. When we come together and lean on each other, amazing things happen.

Ask the ladies at Thistle Farms.

Founded by an Episcopalian priest (a woman), Thistle Farms is located near Nashville, Tennessee. It’s a residence for women who have been victims of trafficking, addiction, bad choices—the list goes on.

One unique thing about Thistle Farms: the women live together with no supervisor. They are, in essence, entrusted with their own future.

From a residence of eight, Thistle Farms has expanded to multiple residences; there is a coffee shop and a terrific line of health, beauty and household products created, packaged and sold by the women. The ingredients are natural and pure; many of them come from farms that also work to provide broken women with a fresh start or a second chance.

Kind of sounds a lot like something Jesus might do, doesn’t it?

This week, I’ll be sharing some of the 24 Spiritual Principles that guide the women in their journey together. If it works for them, I believe it just might work for us, too.

(For more information, visit thistlefarms.org)

Monday Come together. Proclaim original grace. Cry with your Creator. Matthew 18:18-20

Tuesday Find your place in the Circle. Think of the stranger as God. Take the longer path. Luke 1:76-79

Wednesday Make a small change and see a big difference. Let God sort it out. Stand on new ground and believe you are not lost. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13

Thursday Forgive and feel freedom. Unite your sexuality and spirituality. Show hospitality to all. 2 John: 1-3

Friday Laugh at yourself. Listen to a new idea. Lose gracefully. Remember you have been in the ditch. Ezekiel 34:11-16

Saturday Walk behind. Live in gratitude. Love without judgment. Hebrews 4:14-16

Sunday Stay on point. Pray for courage. Find your way home. Leave thankfully. (Amen!) Psalm 45:17

They loved me until I learned to love myself. –Thistle Farms resident




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