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Happy Valentine's Day

2/14/25

Hello, friends and family,

 

I pray this letter finds you in good health. I'm writing to you from the mountains of northern Arizona, near where I spent most of my formative years. The crisp, clean air smells of fragrant pine while the sun shines brightly, clearing the morning frost off the ground and car windows. This familiar beauty fills my senses to overflowing.

 

My husband, James, and I deeply love the southwest US. We met and fell in love in Arizona 41 years ago this month. We have collected many memories during that time. Some not-so-good and even tragic. Some blissful, awe-inspiring, and divine. Some unforgettable. Some forgotten. Through it all, our collective experiences have made us stronger together. And for that, we are incredibly grateful.

 

Speaking of love, February is the celebrated month of love when Americans purchase over $25 billion (yes, I said billion) in Valentine-related products. Though the truth of this holiday's origin has a few versions, there is no denying that companies have made some serious coin throughout the years to promote love. It turns out money can buy love (tehee).

 

But let's pause to ponder - can love actually be bought?

 

Consider the Greeks back in their heyday. They had so much difficulty describing love simply that they broke it down into nine categories. It's amazing how four simple alphabet letters can be so significant. One of those nine types of love is the purest and most complete form. Agape is an unconditional love that unites and heals.

 

When I think back over the years to the loving surprises my sweetie has gifted me - and not just Valentine's Day - it makes me smile because I know they were not obligatory but because he cherishes me with an Agape love.

 

When I wrote When Old School Meets New School, I considered the Agape love my dad exemplified daily. The seven key attributes focus on respect through love. The book's overarching theme is building multigenerational connections. The only way to build healthy generational relationships is to embrace this Agape love, which unites and heals.

 

So, it turns out money can’t buy love. Look at this chapter in Corinthians that describes Agape love. These scriptures are the best definition of love I have ever come across.

"4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

8 Love never fails."

 

As always, I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a line, and please share this letter with a friend if you feel inclined.

 

Sending love and light,

Lestie

 

Updates:

  • I have a new author friend I want to introduce you to in my next email. You won’t want to miss it.

  • I started teaching my Canva for Authors again on January 9th. We’re having fun designing new projects.

  • I am continuing to build my Canva for Authors course. I hope to have it available in April.

  • I have also been working on my website. I have edited the branding and added my Cactus Cuties Coloring Book. Behind the scenes, I'm also adding a store where I plan to sell on-brand items. I am creating a space to advertise my design and consultation services. I've also created a page for coloring sheets and eBooks I've written. Eventually, I'd like a page to show our travel journey. So, exciting changes are in the works. Stay tuned for more updates.

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Cactus Cuties

Coloring Book

 

By Lestie May Zachary


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When Old School Meets New School

 

By Lestie May Zachary


 
 
 

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