Episode 37: When Joy Arrives Unexpectedly

Send us Fan MailThis short, reflective episode of Living in 3D Power was inspired by a question posed by a trusted friend, Hattie B. McCarter: “As we get ready for the end of the year, with a grateful heart, what are three blessings you are grateful for this year? One of them being one you never saw coming.”As Emma and I sit with this question during the holiday season, we explore gratitude through the lens of grief, joy, faith, and unexpected connection. In a year shaped by loss, big transitions, and surprising blessings, this conversation models what it looks like to be honest about tenderness while still naming what has sustained us.Together, we reflect on community support, creative callings, faith milestones, family closeness, and the importance of being gentle with yourself when gratitude doesn’t come easily.This episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and practice gratitude without pressure or performance, especially in hard seasons.Chapters00:00 – Caution for ParentsEmma opens with a playful disclaimer for parents before the conversation begins.02:32 – Reflecting on BlessingsAmber shares Hattie’s powerful question and names how grief can make gratitude feel hard to access.04:24 – Podcast Journey and Unexpected BlessingsAmber reflects on starting the podcast with Emma as an unexpected, God-led blessing.06:33 – Navigating Grief and Finding InspirationA tender conversation about grief, inspiration, and the role of community in helping us see clearly again.10:35 – Emma’s Unexpected BlessingsEmma names her own unexpected blessings—from being paid for speaking, to baptism, to deepening family relationships.15:34 – Holiday Reflections and Family ConnectionsAmber and Emma reflect on holidays, faith, memory, and why connection matters more than consumption.23:19 – Closing Thoughts and Holiday WishesA gentle challenge for listeners to reflect on their own blessings and extend grace to themselves this season.Resource Mentioned: https://livingin3dpower.substack.com/p/when-brutal-truth-becomes-a-blessingConnect with Me:Instagram: @natural_inclinationYoutube: @naturalinclinationTikTok: Amber SessomsLinkedIn: Dr. Amber M. Sessoms, NCSPBluesky: @ambersessoms.bsky.socialFacebook: Natural InclinationWebsite: www.aninclination.comLike, Comment, Share, EngageIf this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who would love these conversations. Engage with the Curiosity Cards and ask the youth in your life about their experiences because you might be surprised by what you learn. Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments or on social media using #LivingIn3DPower. And, don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for next week’s conversation!