The group brought food, covered beautifully with festive cloths containing colorful pictures of Christmas scenes and goodies. The steam coming from the scrumptious dishes made her want to stop talking and visiting and get to the food. The neighbors in her subdivision always had a barbecue on various days, and especially on the Fourth of July. Instead, she hopefully looked around to see if there was a place where she would feel comfortable being by herself. She chose the path to flourish, and believes in the Scripture, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13)Ellen Shuck holds degrees in psychology, religious education and spiritual direction.