Happy Friday Reader,

I hope this message finds you well!

I’m excited to share a new episode of The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast titled “Assess Your Progress: Signs You Might Be Falling Behind in Life.”

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In this reflective episode, we explore the art of self-assessment—an essential, though sometimes uncomfortable, aspect of personal and professional development.

Inspired by a morning of contemplation, yours truly will share the intriguing story of Michael, a successful individual who questions his path after stumbling upon a transformative blog post.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

• The Comparison Trap: Learn why comparing yourself to others can undermine happiness.
• Discovering Your Purpose: Gain insights on living intentionally and aligning with your values.
• Evaluating Career and Finances: Uncover strategies to ensure your career and financial choices support your long-term goals.
• Personal Growth Journey: Understand the importance of continuous learning.
• Health as Wealth: Why maintaining your health is crucial for success.
• The Richness of Experiences: The benefits of broadening your horizons.
• Balancing Acts: The necessity of work-life balance for creativity and well-being.
• Social Connections: How strong relationships enhance emotional stability.
• Life Milestones: Reflect on critical personal timelines.
• Embracing Change and Adaptability: Learn to see change as a growth opportunity.

Featured Quote:

Let’s Engage

I invite you to reflect on the signs discussed in today’s episode and consider areas in your life that might need adjustment. Feel free to share your thoughts and personal experiences in the comments or on our social media platforms.

For further inspiration and resources, including the blog post that inspired this episode, visit our website or check out the additional reading and tools for self-assessment and personal development listed there.

Stay Connected

To ensure you don’t miss any episodes, subscribe to The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast on your favorite podcast platform.

Let’s connect on Social Media for more updates and exclusive content.

Thank you for tuning in and being part of our community. Until next time, keep steering true to your course and embrace your leadership journey.

Warm regards,

Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.
The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast

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Here’s to your success,

Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.
​See All of my Links @ Linktree​

Happy Thursday Reader,

Hello to my Mars Hill family!

I’m delighted to bring you another edition of our weekly newsletter, filled with updates, insights, and opportunities to enrich your spiritual journey.

This week, we explore various facets of our community life, from our special Mother’s Day service preparations to the latest episode of our podcast that’s sure to inspire.

Join us as we explore ways to deepen our faith and connection personally and collectively.

Join Us for Our Special Mother’s Day Service

We invite you to a special service dedicated to celebrating and honoring mothers on Sunday, May 12, 2024, at 10:30 AM (CST).

This day brings varied emotions for many—joy for those celebrating with their mothers, remembrance for those whose mothers have passed, and perhaps a time for healing for those with strained relationships.

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Our service will be held both in-person and online, ensuring everyone can participate no matter where you are.

We aim to create a space that acknowledges all these feelings, fostering a community of support, love, and potential reconciliation.

It’s a day to recognize the significant impact of mothers and maternal figures in our lives and reflect on the love and lessons they’ve given us.

​📍In-Person Location @ 10:30 AM Central:
7941 47th St, McCook, IL 60525​

Stay Inspired with Our Latest Podcast Episode: Assess Your Progress: Signs You Might Be Falling Behind in Life

I’m excited to share this week’s inspiration through my latest podcast episode, Assess Your Progress: Signs You Might Be Falling Behind in Life.

This episode offers actionable tips and insights for maintaining momentum or realigning with your true purpose.

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Tune in to reflect on your personal growth journey and discover strategies for embracing your full potential. Stay motivated and connected to your goals!

Take advantage of this opportunity to enhance your personal and community transformation. Listen now by following this link.

Thank you for taking the time to engage with this week’s update. Your involvement is crucial to our success and ability to serve.

Thank you for being such an integral part of Mars Hill. May God bless you abundantly. I look forward to seeing you this Sunday and interacting with you through our #ChurchInYourPocket.

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Here to help you win,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

P.S. We encourage you to engage with us throughout the week—share your thoughts, reflections, and joy on our social media platforms. Let’s make this Holy Week an enriching experience for all.

Hello Reader,

Welcome to this week’s Mars Hill Anywhere newsletter! As we gather in spirit and unity, we’re excited to bring you updates that reflect our shared journey in faith and community.

In this edition, we have included inspiring content, important updates, and opportunities for you to engage with our mission actively.

Let’s explore how we can grow together and positively impact both locally and globally.

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Health Update and Prayer Request

I am delighted to share some good news about my health following my recent surgery.

My post-surgery doctor’s visit on Monday, May 5, 2024, went well. I’m healing correctly, experiencing no setbacks, and I am relatively pain-free—what a difference a week makes! I thank Shauntai Stowers, my exceptional nurse and caregiver, for it all.

I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who prayed, called, emailed, and texted during this challenging time.

Your support through cards, gifts, and food has been incredibly uplifting.

Your prayers during this time would mean the world to me. They uplift and strengthen me more than words can express. If you feel led to be a blessing to me and First Lady Shauntai, you can do so through the following methods:

• Cash App: $ClarenceStowers
• Zelle: ClarenceStowers@gmail.com
• First Lady Shauntai Stowers:
  • Zelle: s.stowers@comcast.net
  • Cash App: $ShauntaiEStowers

Additionally, cards and gifts are welcomed and can be sent to our church address: Mars Hill Church P.O. Box 6159 River Forest, IL 60305

I look forward to updating you on my progress. In the meantime, let us keep each other in our thoughts and prayers.

Thank you for your continuous support and understanding.

Sermon Recap: Anchored in Promise: Embracing Hope’s Certainty

Last Sunday, Rev. Marcie Wilson graced our in-person and online services with a profoundly inspiring sermon titled “Anchored in Promise: Embracing Hope’s Certainty.”

She masterfully clarified the scripture, enriching our understanding and connecting us to God’s steadfast promises. It was a powerful reminder of the hope we hold in our faith, continually anchored in the certainty of God’s word.

If you missed it or wish to experience it again, you can watch the replay on our app and YouTube Channel.

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Special Mother’s Day Service Announcement

Join us on Sunday, May 12, 2024, for an exceptional Mother’s Day service at Mars Hill Anywhere.

We plan to include a variety of surprises to make this day memorable, including special music, presentations, and guest appearances. All culminate in a heartfelt message dedicated to all mothers.

It’s a day of celebration and appreciation you won’t want to miss!

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​📍In-Person Location @ 10:30 AM Central:
7941 47th St, McCook, IL 60525​

Discover the Mars Hill App: Your Spiritual Connection Anytime, Anywhere | #ChurchInYourPocket​

Dive into the Mars Hill experience right from your pocket with our recently enhanced mobile app (#ChurchInYourPocket) and website!

Our app is the central hub for all your spiritual needs. It provides a platform to connect with your spirituality and find inner peace. Here’s what you will experience:

• Messages On Demand: Enjoy a Netflix-style library of past sermons and teachings, available whenever you need them.
• Weekly Devotionals: Engage with curated devotionals that deepen your understanding and strengthen your faith each week.
• Podcasts: Listen on the go to enriching discussions and messages that inspire your spiritual journey.

Stay connected and nurture your faith wherever life takes you. Download the Mars Hill App today and keep the spirit of our community with you at all times.

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Ready to explore?

Updating your app or downloading it for the first time? Click here and get started!​

Gratitude for Your Generous Support 🙏

We’re deeply grateful for your support, which is essential for the continuation of our ministry.

When the lead pastor is away, churches often experience a financial downturn. Let’s ensure Mars Hill remains an exception to this trend. Your financial contributions and prayers have been crucial in helping Mars Hill Anywhere create meaningful messages and advance our mission.

Your generosity supports our work and helps spread our message of love and forgiveness locally and globally.

Donating is simple: visit our secure online giving portal or contact our dedicated team at 773-287-3535.

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference and helps us provide spiritual nourishment to those in need.

Thank you for taking the time to engage with this week’s update. Your involvement is crucial to our success and ability to serve.

As we continue to unfold God’s plan for our community, remember that every action and contribution you make is significant. Please consider supporting our ongoing efforts by visiting our giving portal or contacting us directly.

Let’s build a community that thrives on faith, hope, and love. Join us in making a difference today!

We appreciate your valued presence in the Mars Hill Anywhere community. We are blessed to share this journey with you, blending the best in-person and online worship for a transformative spiritual experience.

Thank you for being such an integral part of Mars Hill. May God bless you abundantly. I look forward to seeing you this Sunday and interacting with you through our #ChurchInYourPocket.

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Here to help you win,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

P.S. We encourage you to engage with us throughout the week—share your thoughts, reflections, and joy on our social media platforms. Let’s make this Holy Week an enriching experience for all.

Happy Hump Day Reader,

I hope this message finds you blessed and thriving. As we journey through this season of change and renewal, I want to take a moment to share some important updates with you regarding my health, our church leadership, and exciting developments with our Mars Hill resources.

Your support and engagement during this time are invaluable to me and our church community.

Health Update and Prayer Request

I wanted to share a personal update and ask for your prayers. Recently, I underwent a medical procedure that, while necessary, was blessedly straightforward thanks to the expertise and care of an excellent medical team.

The surgery went as planned last Friday, and I am now in the recovery phase.

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Although the road to full recovery will take some weeks—precisely, 4 weeks—I am grateful for the excellent care I received and the positive outcome anticipated by my doctors. I am hopeful about returning to my routine and responsibilities soon.

Your prayers during this time would mean the world to me. They uplift and strengthen me more than words can express. Please feel free to reach out if you wish to talk or if there’s any way I can support you—we must continue to uplift each other.

If you feel led to be a blessing to me and First Lady Shauntai, you can do so through the following methods:

• Cash App: $ClarenceStowers
• Zelle: ClarenceStowers@gmail.com
• First Lady Shauntai Stowers:
  • Zelle: s.stowers@comcast.net
  • Cash App: $ShauntaiEStowers

Additionally, cards and gifts are welcomed and can be sent to our church address: Mars Hill Church P.O. Box 6159 River Forest, IL 60305

I look forward to updating you on my progress. In the meantime, let us keep each other in our thoughts and prayers.

Thank you for your continuous support and understanding.

Temporary Pastoral Leadership

As I focus on my recovery, I am blessed to have capable and compassionate leaders stepping in to ensure that our church’s pastoral needs continue to be met with the same level of care and dedication you are accustomed to.

During my recuperation, Rev. Tim Morris and Rev. Marcie Wilson will handle preaching, counseling, and other pastoral duties.

Both Rev. Tim and Marcie are deeply committed to our community and bring a wealth of experience and empathy to their roles. I am confident in their ability to guide our church through this transitional period.

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Per my doctor’s orders, I will be limited to light desk duties and administrative tasks until I fully recover. This allows me to stay engaged while ensuring my health remains a priority.

During this period of transition, it is crucial that we maintain our commitments, including our financial support for the church. Historically, many churches experience a dip in giving when the Lead Pastor is unavailable.

Your continued contributions are essential to sustain our ministries and operations, especially now as we strive to continue our impactful work in the community without interruption.

Please extend the same warmth and support you have always shown me to them. Your cooperation and understanding will significantly assist in maintaining the continuity and spiritual nurturing of our congregation.

Thank you for your prayers and support as I heal. I look forward to rejoining you all soon, in total capacity.

Sermon Recap: “Alone But Not Lonely: Finding Strength in Solitude – A Sermon on the Life of Elijah”

This past Sunday, Reverend Marcie Wilson delivered an inspiring sermon centered on Elijah’s life, “Alone But Not Lonely: Finding Strength in Solitude.”

We explored how Elijah’s significant periods of solitude not only deepened his relationship with God but also fortified his faith and mission. Highlighting the distinction between solitude and loneliness,

Rev. Wilson illustrated practical ways to embrace quiet time, encouraging us to seek intentional moments of solitude to connect with God.

This sermon is a call to all seeking spiritual renewal and a deeper understanding of divine presence in times of solitude.

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Join Us This Sunday

As we continue to navigate this period of recovery and renewal, your presence, whether in person or online, is more valuable than ever. I invite you to join us for our worship service this Sunday, May 5, 2024, at 10:30 AM CST.

Being a part of our congregation’s gathering, whether physically in the church or virtually from the comfort of your home, truly means the world to me. Your attendance strengthens our community and reinforces the bond we share as a family in faith.

I look forward to hearing your support and energy from those who can attend in person. And for our members who join us online, know that your presence is felt and cherished just as deeply.

Let’s unite to uplift each other and continue our journey in faith this Sunday.

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​📍In-Person Location @ 10:30 AM Central:
7941 47th St, McCook, IL 60525​

Experience Mars Hill Anywhere with Our App – #ChurchInYourPocket​

Have you explored the Mars Hill App yet? In our continuous effort to make your spiritual journey accessible wherever you are, we’ve recently updated our website and mobile app, enhancing features that bring Mars Hill right into your pocket—hence, #ChurchInYourPocket.

Our app is designed to be a spiritual hub for you, featuring:

• Netflix-styled Messages On Demand: Watch past sermons and teachings anytime and anywhere, just like you would on Netflix.
• Weekly Devotionals: Dive deeper into the Word with devotionals curated to nurture your faith and guide your week.
• Podcasts: Listen to messages and discussions that challenge and inspire your spiritual walk while on the go.
• And much, much more!

This tool is perfect for staying connected with our community and continuing your spiritual growth, no matter where life takes you. Download the Mars Hill App today and bring your church experience into every moment of your life.

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Ready to explore?

Updating your app or downloading it for the first time? Click here and get started!​

Your Support is a Blessing 🙏

Look, as you all know, making ministry happen ain’t cheap!

Your prayers and financial Support have been pivotal in enabling our ministry to thrive. Thanks to your generosity, we can continue creating impactful messages and advancing our mission.

We encourage you to donate financially to help Mars Hill Anywhere keep doing its good work and grow.

Your donations don’t just help us; they also spread our message of love and forgiveness to people in need, both in our local area and worldwide.

It’s easy to donate. Go to our safe online giving portal or call our hardworking team at 773-287-3535.

Every gift, big or small, helps us move forward with our goal and support people looking for spiritual food.

We appreciate you being a part of the Mars Hill Anywhere group.

We are truly blessed to be on this journey, combining the best in-person and online worship to create a transformative and inclusive spiritual experience. Thank you for being a part of the Mars Hill Anywhere family.

Thank you for reading this week’s Mars Hill Anywhere newsletter.

Please remember that your presence, both in person and online, your prayers, and your ongoing support are critical during this time of recovery and beyond. Together, we will continue to foster a vibrant community that lives out the Gospel in every action.

Thank you for being such an integral part of Mars Hill. May God bless you abundantly. I look forward to seeing you this Sunday and interacting with you through our #ChurchInYourPocket.

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Here to help you win,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

P.S. We encourage you to engage with us throughout the week—share your thoughts, reflections, and joy on our social media platforms. Let’s make this Holy Week an enriching experience for all.

Dear Mars Hill Anywhere Family,

Welcome to this week’s edition of the Mars Hill Anywhere newsletter! As we grow in faith and fellowship, this issue brings you updates and inspirational content designed to enrich your spiritual journey.

From powerful sermon insights to community news and special upcoming events, each segment is crafted to keep you connected and informed.

Dive into this week’s updates to see how you can engage more deeply with our vibrant community.

Last Sunday’s Sermon Recap: “From Isolation to Invitation: Finding God’s Plan When You Feel Alone.”

In last Sunday’s sermon, “From Isolation to Invitation,” I shared a powerful perspective: loneliness isn’t a sign of divine punishment but a profound invitation from God to grow and discover His plans for us.

We explored the biblical stories of Moses and Jesus, revealing how their solitude amplified God’s voice. I offered practical guidance on transforming solitude into a sanctuary for spiritual growth, such as initiating a prayer practice or participating in community service.

Reflecting on Matthew 28:20, we were reminded that our quiet times are infused with divine presence and purpose. If you missed the sermon or wish to revisit the impactful message, watch the replay OnDemand.

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Join Us for Online Sunday Service

Please mark your calendars for our next online service on Sunday, April 28, 2024, at 10:30 AM CST! We will stream live across all platforms, bringing our community together for worship, teaching, and fellowship. Tune in to be part of our vibrant church community from wherever you are. We look forward to sharing this spiritual experience with you!

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Upcoming In-Person Service

Join us for our next in-person service on Sunday, May 5, 2024, at our McCook location, 7941 47th St, McCook, IL 60525.

I truly miss seeing all of you and would love to welcome you back in person. If you cannot make it in person, don’t worry!

We will also be streaming the service online. Whether you join us onsite or online, your presence is a blessing to our community. I look forward to sharing this time of worship and fellowship with you.

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​📍In-Person Location @ 10:30 AM Central:
7941 47th St, McCook, IL 60525​

Mars Hill App #ChurchInYourPocket

We’re thrilled to share some exciting updates with you! Think of the Mars Hill app as The Church in Your Pocket—where everything you need to stay connected and inspired is just a tap away.

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📖 Weekly Devotional: Jumpstart your week with a message that uplifts and guides. Whether you’re on the go or at home, find a moment of peace and reflection anytime.

💌 1% Better Newsletter: Get inspired with our weekly newsletter, packed with tips, stories, and ideas to help you grow just 1% better every week. Perfect for your Sunday read or any day you need a little boost!

🎥 Netflix Style Video OnDemand: Dive into sermons, teachings, and exclusive Mars Hill content, all available on-demand. It’s like Netflix but for your spiritual journey!

💖 The Easiest Way to Give: Giving has never been more straightforward. With just a few taps, you can make a real difference and keep the spirit of generosity alive wherever you are.

📅 NEW Events Calendar: Never miss out on what’s happening at Mars Hill! Subscribe to our events calendar and keep your spiritual journey vibrant and active.

🗺️ Map with Clickable Directions: Visit us in person with ease. Our updated map feature provides clickable directions to lead you straight to our doors—just like having a friend guide the way!

Ready to explore?

Updating your app or downloading it for the first time? Click here and get started!​

Mastering Your 30s: The Road to 40 Begins Now Podcast

I’m thrilled to share the latest episode of The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast! In this episode, I, Clarence Stowers, Jr., delve into how you can thrive in your 30s and set the stage for even more success in your 40s.

Today’s episode is packed with actionable advice on personal growth, financial stability, and self-improvement—essential for individuals in their 30s or approaching that age.

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Episode Highlights Include:

• Laying Foundations: Why your 30s are the perfect time to build a solid base for your future.
• Actionable Steps: Exploring investment opportunities and leveraging technology for better life management.
• Core Values and Emotional Mastery: Aligning your actions with your values for long-term personal development.
• Expanding Horizons: Finding joy, enhancing skills, and nurturing meaningful connections.
• Health and Love: Maintaining physical and mental health and nurturing relationships.

Call to Action:

• Engage: I’d love to hear how you’re preparing for your 40s—share your thoughts on social media or in the comments.
• Subscribe: Don’t miss an episode by subscribing to your preferred podcast platform.
• Share: If you know someone in their 30s, share this episode with them—it could significantly impact their decade.

​Please tune in to this transformative episode and join us on a journey of growth and preparation. Let’s embrace the road to 40 with purpose and passion!

Your Support is a Blessing 🙏

Look, as you all know, making ministry happen ain’t cheap!

Your prayers and financial Support have been pivotal in enabling our ministry to thrive. Thanks to your generosity, we can continue creating impactful messages and advancing our mission.

We encourage you to donate financially to help Mars Hill Anywhere keep doing its good work and grow.

Your donations don’t just help us; they also spread our message of love and forgiveness to people in need, both in our local area and worldwide.

It’s easy to donate. Go to our safe online giving portal or call our hardworking team at 773-287-3535.

Every gift, big or small, helps us move forward with our goal and support people looking for spiritual food.

We appreciate you being a part of the Mars Hill Anywhere group.

We are truly blessed to be on this journey, combining the best in-person and online worship to create a transformative and inclusive spiritual experience. Thank you for being a part of the Mars Hill Anywhere family.

Thank you for reading this week’s Mars Hill Anywhere newsletter.

We hope the updates and insights shared here inspire and uplift you. As we move forward, remember that every small step we take together strengthens our community and deepens our faith.

Please share your thoughts, attend our upcoming events, and continue engaging with us online and in person. Together, let’s make each week more meaningful and transformative. Stay blessed and connected!

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In His Grip,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

P.S. We encourage you to engage with us throughout the week—share your thoughts, reflections, and joy on our social media platforms. Let’s make this Holy Week an enriching experience for all.

Happy Tuesday Reader,

In our journey through life, our company plays a pivotal role in shaping our perspectives, emotional well-being, and overall spiritual health. Just as a dead battery can’t jump-start another, surrounding ourselves with individuals who drain our spirit rather than enrich, it can leave us feeling depleted and stagnant.

Recognizing Energy Drainers vs. Energy Givers

We often encounter two types of people: energy drainers and energy givers. Energy drainers sap your strength, usually requiring more from you than they are willing or able to give back. Their presence can be compared to a dead battery, which fails to hold any power, no matter how much you try to charge it.

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On the other hand, energy givers boost your spirit and inspire you. They radiate positivity and contagious enthusiasm that acts like a jump-start to your energy levels. They are the charged batteries, ready to help reignite your spark when you feel low.

The Impact of Relationships on Personal and Spiritual Growth

Relationships profoundly impact us, extending even to our neurological processes. Being around positive people can increase your brain’s ability to think creatively and solve problems more effectively.

The Science of Influence

Relationships profoundly impact us, extending even to our neurological processes. Being around positive people can actually increase your brain’s ability to think creatively and solve problems more effectively.

How to Foster Positive Relationships

1. Evaluate Your Circle
   • Take stock of the people around you. Consider who motivates you and who tends to drain you. Recognizing the difference can help you make informed decisions about who you spend your time with.
2. Seek Out Positivity
   • Actively seek out individuals who uplift your spirit. Look for qualities like optimism, resilience, and a sense of humor. These traits are often contagious and can significantly boost your mood and outlook.
3. Set Boundaries
   • It’s crucial to set boundaries with energy drainers. Sometimes, due to professional or familial ties, we cannot altogether avoid them. Still, we can limit their impact on our lives through clear boundaries.
4. Cultivate Your Environment
   • Be intentional about who you allow into your life. This is about cutting out negative people and nurturing the relationships that contribute to your energy and growth.

The Choice is Yours

Remember, the choice of who you surround yourself with is ultimately yours. Just as you wouldn’t expect a dead battery to power a vehicle, don’t rely on those who drain your spirit to enrich your life. Instead, spend time with those who can jump-start your spirit and inspire you to reach greater heights.

In a world full of complexities and challenges, it is more crucial than ever to ensure that your ‘batteries’—your sources of energy and inspiration—are fully charged and ready to support you. By consciously choosing to surround yourself with positive and enriching individuals, you enhance your spiritual and emotional well-being and set the stage for continued growth and fulfillment.

FAQs

1. How can I identify if someone is an energy drainer?
   • You can identify an energy drainer by noticing if you consistently feel emotionally depleted or less enthusiastic after interacting with them.
2. What steps can I take today to start surrounding myself with positive people?
   • Start engaging more with inspiring individuals and gradually distance yourself from those who sap your energy.
3. Can relationships change my energy levels?
   • Yes, relationships significantly impact your energy levels, with positive interactions boosting your mood and negative ones draining it.
4. What are some signs that a relationship is beneficial for my spiritual growth?
   • A relationship benefits your spiritual growth by encouraging you to be your best self, supporting your goals, and bringing peace and positivity to your life.
5. How often should I reassess the relationships in my life?
   • It’s wise to reassess your relationships periodically, such as annually or whenever you feel a significant shift in your emotional or spiritual well-being.

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Here’s to your success,

Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.
​See All of my Links @ Linktree​