Dear Happy Asses,
When I was in the process of building my Beachy Beach building, I had a vision for what we would be inside these walls. Because of that vision, I walked around the building as it was being built — praying, thanking God, and listening to praise and worship music. I mostly thanked Him for all I had been given and for the responsibility before me.
My vision was to build a business with heart and energy, for God and for others. I wanted this place to be infused with joy, service, and goodwill. I wanted EVERYONE who walked through our doors to feel wonder, creativity, and loving energy. But I didn’t want it to stop here. I wanted it to encourage people to take that same good energy into the world.
Energy is powerful. It’s in everything we do, we can’t separate our lives from the energy flowing in and around us. Because I value it so deeply, I protect the energy in this space. I pray over it. I nurture it. I want it to feel like love the moment someone steps inside.
This morning, because of some life challenges, I decided — just like Joshua, to walk around my building seven times. I cranked up joyful praise music, and with every step, I asked God to bless each soul who comes in. I prayed over their coming and going. I thanked Him for this space and the lives it touches.
I also asked God to remind me of what I can control and what I cannot. I only have agency over my own life, not the lives of others. I can create a loving space. I can set an example. But then, I have to let go and let God.
Walking and praying reminded me of my sweet husband, Hugh. He loved the number seven, which is seen throughout Scripture as the number of completion and perfection. So when I made that seventh lap, I thanked God for Hugh — and I smiled, believing he sees what we’ve built here.
Though this building is complete, I am not. I will always be under construction, growing into the best version of me God designed. My hope is that as I grow, I share an energy that tells everyone they are here for a purpose: love, kindness, compassion… and ultimately JOY.
Loving you big,
Karen Key Smith
