Market Reflections
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, “Celebrate Often!”
It’s pausing and taking time to reflect on the small moments that too quickly pass us by. Something we once thought impossible or only a mere dream of our future reality and then suddenly, you realize you’re actually doing what you sought out to do or accomplish.
There are a variety of experiences and goals that resonate with the feeling of accomplishment and gratitude.
My most recent experience was this past weekend where I attended and participated in two markets as a vendor. I’ve always loved markets, from the original garage sale, thrifting, farmers markets, and my personal favorite artisan markets. Artisan markets are my personal favorite for the unique creativity they bring. Each maker brings their products and creative vision to impact people’s lives. You may have thought, “It’s only a card..it’s not going to change anyone’s life.” But friend, that’s where creatives or entrepreneurs truthfully think differently. We believe creativity does have the ability to bring change into people’s lives.
“Share Your Light” Card
It may be a small spark of:
hope
joy
peace
patience
kindness
and so much more.
For me as a creative, maker, entrepreneur, artist, or whatever title I find myself in; I believe this is one small way I can use my creativity to share the gospel in a way that is full of joy and hope.
This past weekend, attending Made Market in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and then the next day the Mishawaka Market in Mishawaka, Indiana brought me so much hope and peace.
I saw glimpses of community, in multiple ways:
As a maker when people were browsing through the clothing rack and when they read the back of the “Made in His Image” shirt and you could see the tangible joy (which in return filled my heart with joy)
The various conversations of encouragement that this is a message that is needed (the gospel always will be the greatest gift and message to freely share)
Connections with ministries and organizations that are looking for creatives to help share the gospel in a way unique to their ministry (what a gift to meet other believers and find community anywhere we go!)
And lastly, what was a sweet surprise from Jesus, connections made with other makers and creatives. That feeling of finding your community and building connections, you know you’re in the right place
What a warm welcome it was and I can’t wait for this weekend again at the Mishawaka Market getting to meet and make new friends!
I met another “Addie!” (Adi & Addie) We traded, she picked out a bracelet for me and I picked out a smiley face button for her! ❤️
Passing the Baton
I’ve followed other creatives and companies for a long time and they don’t even know how much they’ve inspired me. People say, “The world needs more of what you bring into it.” And that is true as God has uniquely placed passions, skills, and talents within every individual, but I keep coming back to the world that needs the gospel and an encounter with the real and ever-present Jesus. He is the one this is all for and the only one who can soften the hardest heart into a life lived for His glory and not our own.
A deep thank you to my mom for helping as we navigated our booth display and set up/tear down (you’re the MVP!), my dad and stepmom sacrificing time to watch Kodak and come visit my booth in person, plus dear friends for surprise visits and their support cheering me on every step of the way.
And lastly thank you. Thank you for being here, without you I wouldn’t be able to do what I love. I am humbled that you’ve found a community where you feel like you belong.
Grace & Peace,
Addie! ☻
p.s. if you took the time to read this entire journal entry, an extra special thank you to you. Go over to our Instagram and send me a message and include “Market Reflections” and something you are celebrating today, this week, month, or in this season. I’d love to know so I can be a friend in your corner cheering you on!
