Can I share a photo?

It's nothing spectacular and would not garner many "likes" on Instagram, but to me it's very special.

In this picture I see a school, a "b" that resembles a heart, and colors that remind me of the dust.

1. Though there aren't any people in the photo, when I see the school I see many faces. It's a place where laughs are contagious and you understand how a smile is the same in every language.

2. When I was 16 years old I began a project where anytime I saw a heart-shaped something, I would take a picture. Twelve years and one heart-shaped piece of ham later I still look for these moments. That moment when Love somewhat jumps out at you can be a nice reminder and encouragement.

3. And DUST. Let's just say that I can now fully appreciate the value of noise-hairs. Rainy season had not arrived so at the end of the day there was a thin layer of dust covering your body and clothes. Also, the idea of watering the dirt is not that obscure now. Don't misunderstand me though, the dust didn't bother me but it is something that stands out in my memory.

THE MASON JAR Kindle Fire Giveaway from James Russell Lingerfelt!

James Russell Lingerfelt's debut novel, The Mason Jar, is hot-off-the-press and causing quite the buzz. It's even been optioned for a feature film and is in pre-production.

Catch the spark by entering James' Kindle Fire giveaway!

 
One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• The Mason Jar by James Russell Lingerfelt

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 19th. Winner will be announced October 20th at James Russell's blog, Love Story from the Male Perspective.

My Review: 

 The Mason Jar really struck a chord with me. I had just left Zambia and was in transit back to the States via London so the worlds of NGO’s and Africa were fresh on my mind. James Russell Lingerfelt has created such likable and relatable characters in The Mason Jar. Eden, Finn, and the supporting cast create a world that one can just dive into. Finn and Eden truly see the world as their mission field and don’t back down from helping people. It’s encouraging and also serves as a good reminder to not get caught up in ourselves but to find ways to impact our world.

 Lingerfelt’s writing style is eloquent and detailed as he crafts the story of Eden and Finn. Being jostled about on the tube in London I was easily transported to the beaches of California, the Tennessee countryside, and the African continent. I could hear the sweet, southern drawl of Grandpa as the letters are exchanged and feel the excitement of college and life on the horizon through the dialogue of the students. 

 The Mason Jar is a sweet story of young love learning to transcend time and circumstance. It’s a fun quick read but at the same time raises questions as to how we can serve those around us. 

 I received a copy of the book for review purposes only. I was not compensated in any other way for this review. The opinions expressed here are my own.