I’ve had the most fun writing and researching for My Wayfaring Billionaire.
I learned about people who dress up as mermaids to entertain and educate others about ocean life and the dangers it’s in. I found the most beautiful little islands that are up for sale and thinking I need to sell a WHOLE LOT of books so I can get me one of them. Ha!
I realized how unforgiveness over past hurts can skew our perception of the present and the future. I suppose that’s why the Word encourages us so many times to find a way to forgive.
While writing about Cilla, my heroine who dressed up as a mermaid to teach children swimming lessons and talk to them about how to keep the oceans clean, I found that other mermaids made this their life purpose. As they swim in the oceans and film their experiences, they talk about the harm plastics do to sea turtles and other underwater life.
It was interesting and got me thinking about how there are other kinds of love, besides what we read about in these books. There is a love for mankind and we can show that by purposefully being kind whenever possible. It costs us nothing, really. Maybe giving the driver behind us the closer parking spot. Or holding open a door, maybe bringing a meal to someone that’s going through a hard time. Another way to show kindness is to set aside any grudges and/or offenses someone might have caused and extend a hand of forgiveness, even when they don’t ask for it. I think forgiveness is more for our benefit than the recipient.
There is a love for our community around us. We don’t have to travel far away to be missionaries to make a difference. Our very own neighborhood is harvest waiting to be reaped. This is one of the lessons Colton has to figure out. Learning how to look beyond the tip of his nose to what’s really around him.
There is also the love of our earth. I know people have mixed feelings about this and I’m not going to get into any conservation discussions here. Like above, there are simple ways to show appreciation for the place God gave us to dwell. Picking up after ourselves, and maybe picking up a little extra trash if we come across it. Not creating more waste than necessary. I’ve begun collecting reusable bags and take them with me to the grocery store. (Sometimes I forget, but I’m getting better at it.) Recycling, or upcycling. I love taking things that others want to toss out and making them into something useful.
So, my point is, there are many ways to show love and since we are lovers of romance books, I’d like to hear your thoughts. Any other suggestions on ways to spread more love and kindness to the world around us?
Today, I’d like to gift a copy of either My Beastly Billionaire or My Charming Billionaire to one winner. If you’re chosen, you can pick which story you’d like to read.
Thanks for stopping in. Blessings to all of you!
Jackie Castle
Jackie Castle is the author of The White Road Chronicles a fantasy series, The Sentinel Archives for school-age readers, and newly released Madison Creek Bed & Breakfast romance series. She has also published articles and short stories in numerous magazines. She’s enjoyed many crazy adventures from working as a hairstylist, to her bravest quest: teaching children in daycare and elementary schools. Eventually, she settled down to a somewhat safer pursuit of being a Story-weaver. Now she lives in her comfortable Texas home where she spins marvelous tales and enjoys relaxing in the evenings with her husband Bob, their children and grandchild. She looks for the extraordinary in every ordinary day that she experiences.
If we all just showed a little love to each other & the earth, think how amazing this world could become.
Hi Jackie- I’m looking forward to reading this story- I’ve enjoyed the other 2 and am anticipating this one:)
Sharing garden produce with neighbours, mowing the lawn for someone, taking in neighbour’s rubbish bins- small things that are not hard to do but show someone you care.
Blessings:)
I try to show love to people that others take for granted, like the lady cleaning the restroom, the maintenance man at the hotel, etc by always acknowledging them and asking how they are and telling them to have a blessed day. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Jackie! As a German American, I enjoy your billionaire series with a fairy tale twist. I especially enjoyed My Wayfaring Billionaire, because I have my own sweet five year old mermaid (granddaughter). Her mermaid picture is my cell phone screen saver. I agree with Lelia Reynolds to acknowledge with a smile or kind word those around us at business establishments – small businesses, hotels, restaurants, museums and more. Just returned from a mini vacation in Alpena, Michigan. Besides writing book reviews, I write reviews for Trip Advisor. The people in Alpena were outgoing, knowledgeable about their community, and observant. At more than one attraction a young person (employee) would volunteer to take a picture of hubby and myself. At immaculate Michigan rest area #543 the bathrooms had fresh day lilies on a crocheted doily. The attendant came in and wiped down the sink area. Wow! Small touches, a smile, pleasant word, asking a workers name and giving a generous tip. Best wishes and enjoy your weekend.
We can show love by encouraging others. So many times, people just tear each other down, instead of building each other up. I’ve been to Weeki Wachee Springs here in Florida, where the “mermaids” put on an underwater version of the Little Mermaid. It was so good!!
Love this post. Sounds like great stories!
I know, right? Thanks for stopping by.
Great. Glad you’re enjoying the family saga. =)
It’s the little things that matter the most, I think.
So wonderful. Thanks Renate
Wonderful. That sound like such fun.
Thank you.
Fabulous post, Jackie!
I try to remember that every encounter I have with someone is an opportunity to share the love of Jesus, even if just through something small like smiling at someone, speaking a kind word or two, listening to someone share what’s on their heart, letting them go ahead of me in line at the store, etcetera. I love to use both words and actions to bless people and let them know that they are seen, known, and unconditionally loved by Jesus! ❤️
We are the light of the world, right?
We can talk about Jesus, but even better, showing the love of Jesus is what brings people to their knees, I believe.
Thanks for stopping in.