Try to forget yourself in the service of others. For when we think too much of ourselves and our own interests, we easily become despondent. But when we work for others, our efforts return to bless us. – Sidney Powell
We often design our homes around what makes us comfortable and happy, and that’s natural — a home should lift our spirits. Yet if creating a home focuses only on ourselves, we can miss a deeper, more lasting joy that comes from opening our doors and our hearts to others.
There is something profound about using the gifts we have — our talents, our time, and even the physical space of our homes — to bless other people. Hosting gatherings has long been one of my favorite ways to do that. Our old, slightly wobbly dining table doesn’t always accommodate everyone, so for holidays and dinner parties we’ll pull up a card table and extend the meal into the living room.
We cover it with a tablecloth and make one big, cheerful table. It’s not about fancy settings or perfection; it’s about gathering around food, stories, and people we care about. Those moments are what make a house feel like a home.
Isn’t that the hope when we create a home — that we can open the door without hesitation and invite others in? Not worrying about the size of the room or the table, not trying to impress, but simply offering a welcoming place where people can relax and be themselves. That spirit of hospitality is far more meaningful than appearances.
Blogging and social media have expanded this idea: they give us the chance to connect with people we might never meet in person, to share ideas and encouragement right from our own tables. Hearing from readers is like receiving a friendly note — it brightens the day. Those online connections challenge and inspire us, helping us see new perspectives and feel part of a wider community.
Although we can’t all literally gather in the same home, the conversations we have here on The Inspired Room create a similar sense of warmth and company. Even after twelve years of sharing this space online, I’m continually grateful that this community exists and grows. I cherish the messages and comments — they make this place feel alive.
If I don’t hear from you for a while, I miss the camaraderie that comes from your responses. Interaction turns a blog or social feed into a circle of friends, and one path to personal happiness is learning how to help others feel welcomed and valued.
Thank you to everyone who invests time and attention here. I appreciate your comments, emails, and the way you engage — whether you follow along on the blog, connect through social media, read my books, or participate in our community.
Happy gathering!