Creative Connections

It’s amazing how small, unexpected moments can spark meaningful connections.

I was at the nail salon, tucked into a cozy chair, enjoying some quiet time while catching up on my latest book. My Vietnamese friend, Lily, was giving me a fresh coat of polish on my toenails. After finishing, she showed me the latest picture of her adorable daughter, and I couldn’t help but smile.

As I sat waiting for my nails to dry, a woman sitting next to me leaned over and asked, “What are you reading?”

I shared a bit about my book, and in return, she told me about her favorite reads. We laughed together over our shared love of books and quickly exchanged names.

Mary, with a proud smile, told me, “I belong to a book club.”

When I mentioned that I was an author, her face lit up. “What do you write?” she asked eagerly.

“I’ve written several books on overcoming the fear of rejection, based on my own journey of finding God’s path to freedom,” I explained. “I’m passionate about helping others break free from fear and embrace their authentic selves.”

“That’s something I can relate to,” Mary said thoughtfully. “God has helped me a lot in my life, but I still struggle with worrying about what others think of me.”

Just then, one of the nail technicians, Ty, called her to his station for a manicure. As Mary stood, she smiled and said, “Guess I’m off to part two!”

Before she left, I told her, “I have copies of two of my books in the car. I’d love to give them to you.”

A short while later, Mary returned to her seat, and I asked, “What happened?”

“Ty asked me to stay here while he briefly helps another customer,” she replied. “He’s never done that before. This feels like a ‘God thing’!”

I smiled, amazed at how things were unfolding. “Guess this gives us more time to talk!”

When our appointments were finished, we exchanged contact information. I handed her both books, signed and with my details, and we promised to keep in touch—especially since she lived just a few blocks away.

A few days later, Mary called with some exciting news: “We have a mutual friend—Debbie Burton from the Word Weavers critique group. She’s the leader of my book club. We used to teach together at Dover Shores Elementary.”

The connection grew even deeper. A few weeks later, I had a book signing event scheduled with two author friends, but I realized that my usual companion, Susan, would be out of town. That’s when Mary’s name popped into my mind.

I emailed Mary, inviting her to come with me and help out at the bookstore. Her reply was just as I had anticipated—she was hesitant but ready to step outside her comfort zone.

“I received your email last night,” she said. “I wanted some time to think about it, but thank you for asking. I think I’m ready to take a giant step and join you.”

I couldn’t have been prouder of her decision to step forward. Though it was her first time helping at an event like this, she adapted quickly, assisting with the book table and meeting other authors and customers with enthusiasm. Our friendship deepened through the experience.

But God wasn’t done yet with our creative connections. The next time I visited the nail salon, a similar moment unfolded. I was reading when the woman next to me asked, “What are you reading?”

After exchanging favorite titles, she asked about my work, and I mentioned my books on overcoming the fear of rejection.

“I’d love to read your book,” Dorothy said, her voice sincere.

As Dorothy was called away for her manicure, she came back afterward and asked, “Could I have your email? I’d like to write to you after I read your book.”

“Of course,” I said. “I’m glad we met, Dorothy.”

Though I didn’t say it aloud, I noticed a heaviness in Dorothy’s eyes—a sadness that seemed to weigh her down. As she walked away, her slow steps hinted that she had little to look forward to.

God, however, had a purpose in this moment. I believe He led me to offer Dorothy dignity through genuine connection—offering her the chance to read my book and perhaps find the freedom she so desperately needed. I trust that I’m just one link in a chain of people God will use to reach her.

God’s creative connections always work together for good.

“The Lord has made the heavens His throne; from there He rules over everything. Praise the Lord, you angels, you mighty ones who carry out His plans, listening for each of His commands.”
— Psalm 103:19-21 (NLT)

Have you experienced a surprising connection recently? A moment where you felt that God was behind it? I’d love to hear about it. Share your story below, and preserve that memory in your journal or another special place.