by Cynthia L Simmons | Oct 15, 2026 | Podcast
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Unarmed Under Fire: The Civil War Linemen Who Saved Spotsylvania
In May 1864, the area around Spotsylvania Court House erupted into a maelstrom of smoke, mud, and relentless artillery. Trees snapped under cannon shot, and regiments fought hand-to-hand at the Mule Shoe salient.
Yet moving straight into that barrage was a small group of men carrying no rifles, no bayonets, and no ammunition.
Their only weapons? Heavy spools of copper wire and a pair of pliers.
The Nervous System of the Union Army
These men served in the U.S. Military Telegraph Corps under Edwin Stanton’s War Department. Before the telegraph, battlefield commanders relied on mounted couriers—messengers on horseback who easily fell victim to snipers, capture, or exhaustion.
The telegraph revolutionized warfare, bringing nearly instantaneous dispatches to leadership. Heavy battery wagons rolled behind the front lines, stocked with:
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Acid-filled glass battery jars
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Precision brass telegraph keys
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Miles of insulated copper cable
Civilian linemen dashed through brush and briars, stringing line along fence posts and branches to establish contact between forward regiments, commanding generals, and President Abraham Lincoln waiting in Washington.
Braving the Cannon Fire
The system was revolutionary, but extraordinarily fragile. A single stray artillery blast could tear a line in two, severing communication in an instant.
Whenever the click-clack of the telegraph key went silent, commanders lost their eyes and ears. That was the signal for the linemen. They crawled on their bellies through the muck, dodging shrapnel and sniper rounds to find the severed ends. Under fire, they stripped the coating, twisted the raw copper together, spliced the line, and restored the connection.
Across four years of war, these brave crews strung roughly 15,000 miles of wire and encrypted millions of messages. Because they kept the lines open, leadership rarely had to fight in the dark.
When Your Own Battle Rages
In life, sudden storms often strike when we least expect them. A health crisis, family turmoil, or personal grief can feel like an artillery blast that shatters our sense of peace and direction.
In the thick of the fog, panic tempts us to believe we are cut off and alone.
Yet we possess an advantage far greater than any 19th-century army: the line to our Creator never goes down. Earthly signals may fail, but God’s channel of grace remains open day and night. When the battle feels overwhelming, He carries the weights we cannot bear and whispers wisdom directly to our hearts.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” — Psalm 46:1
This Week’s Challenge
When circumstances urge you to panic or rush ahead in the dark, pause. Take a deep breath, lay your burdens before the Lord in prayer, and remember that your spiritual lifeline is unbreakable.
Step Deeper into 19th-Century History
If you love stories where every coded message, ticking clock, and frozen photograph holds the key to the truth, dive into Moment in Time.
[Click here to get your copy of Moment in Time here
Join the Discussion: When life feels chaotic, what spiritual habit helps you keep your connection with God strong? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
by Cynthia L Simmons | Oct 8, 2026 | Podcast
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Disappeared.
That is exactly what Agatha Christie did on a cold Friday night in December 1926. Leaving her young daughter in the care of household staff, she vanished into the winter mist.
Thousands of people searched.
Theories
When police discovered her car abandoned near a chalk quarry in Surrey with its lights left on, the entire nation panicked. The press erupted with wild theories: Did she have an accident? Was she murdered? Had her husband Archie done away with her? Or was it an elaborate publicity stunt?
Eleven days later, she was finally found at a quiet spa hotel in Harrogate. Registered under an assumed name, she had reached her breaking point.
Her beloved mother had recently passed away. Plus, her husband had announced he was in love with another woman and wanted a divorce. Continuous writing had worn down her stamina. She stepped away because the agonizing pressure almost broke her.
Critics whispered that her career was finished.
They were wrong.
After taking the quiet time she needed to heal, Agatha returned to her desk. She went on to write dozens more bestselling novels, and introduce Miss Marple to the world.
Just like Agatha, this past year forced me to drop many of my usual responsibilities, deadlines, and public appearances for cancer treatment and chemotherapy. And when the world keeps spinning while we are forced to stand still, we can feel guilt. Or we might fear we have nothing left to give.
Psalm 23:3 reminds us: “He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.”
Notice the order: God restores before He leads.
Your Challenge This Week:
Are you running out of gas? Are you feeling guilty because you need rest?
Give yourself permission to pause. Stepping back gives God a chance to mend what’s broken so he can guide your next steps.
💬 Have you ever walked through a season where you were forced to slow down and let God restore you? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
If you love Christie’s clever misdirection, sharp suspects, and ticking-clock suspense, Moment in Time needs to be next on your reading list. Grab your copy and see if you can solve it before the final reveal!”
by Cynthia L Simmons | Oct 2, 2026 | Podcast
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Could you tell if a phantom imposter was tapping on the other end of the line?
During the Civil War, a quiet, high-stakes battle raged behind the front lines over the telegraph wires.
The Shadow Battle on the Wire: The Rise of “Lightning” Ellsworth
One of the most famous masters of this shadow game was George A. Ellsworth, an expert telegrapher who rode with Confederate General John Hunt Morgan’s cavalry. Ellsworth carried a compact, portable telegraph instrument right in his saddlebag. Sneaking into the woods near railroad tracks or overtaking a remote depot, he tapped directly into Union lines, intercepting command reports and sending federal cavalry on wild, useless chases with fabricated orders.
Normally, telegraphers could identify each other miles away by their “fist”—the distinct, personal rhythm and cadence each operator used on the brass key. But Ellsworth could copy the fist of legitimate Union operators so well that receiving stations never doubted the orders were genuine. His fingers flew across the instrument with such astonishing speed that his comrades nicknamed him “Lightning.”
How the Union Fought Back: Ciphers, Test Questions, and Pocket Keys
To stop this counterfeit traffic, the Union had to adapt quickly. They used three clever countermeasures:
- The Secret Test Question: Operators tapped out casual questions only the real stationmaster would know—like asking about a local pet or a family member. If the sender hesitated or guessed wrong, the alarm was raised.
- Route Ciphers: They scrambled across a predetermined grid using arbitrary code words. Without the specific cipher book, the intercepted message read as utter gibberish.
- Pocketing the Key: If raiders approached an isolated depot, operators unplugged their station, snatched the small brass sending key, and ran into the brush. Without that key, the raiders had only dead copper wires.
The Spiritual Cipher: Testing Counterfeit Thoughts Against Scripture
Just as Civil War raiders tapped the wire to sow confusion and counterfeit orders, the enemy of our souls loves to whisper into our thoughts. He taps out messages of condemnation, inadequacy, and fear, hoping we will mistake them for truth.
We know the rhythm of God’s truth. Christ said, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). His Word is our unshakeable cipher.
Weekly Challenge: Guarding Your Mind Against Enemy Dispatches
When an anxious or discouraging thought enters your mind, don’t immediately act on it. Test the message against Scripture. Does it line up with the grace, peace, and truth of the Shepherd—or do have have a counterfeit tapping on the line? Learn the cadence of His voice, and refuse to accept enemy dispatches.
If you love historical intrigue, check out my latest book here
by Cynthia L Simmons | Oct 1, 2026 | Encouragement, History, Standing for your faith, wisdom
At three months old, I refused to cooperate with the photographer trying to take my portrait. Every time he tried to coax a smile, I grimaced and frowned. Convinced I was cross, he finally gave up and suggested we try another day.
While he and my mother discussed possible dates, Mother held me close, and the photographer suddenly stopped. Seeing the contented expression on my face, he exclaimed, “That’s exactly what I want!”
He explained that I seemed peaceful only in her arms, so he proposed a clever solution: draping her with fabric. She agreed. They covered her in a beige cloth, and she cradled me securely. Perfectly content, I finally smiled, and he captured the shot.
Years later, while researching Victorian photography, I discovered that the technique was known as the “Hidden Mother.” In the 1860s, long exposure times meant a squirming infant would appear as a ghostly blur. Photographers routinely draped mothers in dark fabric to blend into the studio backdrop while they kept their babies still. If you look closely at those antique portraits, you can often spot a mother’s “restraining arm” under the drapery.
My baby picture and those 19th-century portraits offer a comforting glimpse into our relationship with God.
When life feels chaotic or overwhelming, we often wonder where God has gone. In seasons of silence and uncertainty, it can feel like we are sitting alone in the frame. But when we look with eyes of faith, we realize He is right there behind the scenes, holding us securely so we do not fall. We are safe. We can lean back into Him and rest, knowing He has us.
“The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” -Deuteronomy 33:27
P.S. If quirky 19th-century photography and forgotten history fascinate you, you’ll feel right at home in my post-Civil War mystery, Moment in Time.)
by Cynthia L Simmons | Oct 1, 2026 | Blog, Encouragement
October has arrived! There’s something refreshing about stepping into a new season…the cooler mornings, changing leaves, and little reminders all around us that God is always at work.
As the seasons change, we’re reminded that our lives have seasons too. Some are filled with joy and anticipation, while others stretch our faith and teach us to lean a little closer to the Lord. Whatever this October holds, we can rest in knowing that He is already there.
Dear Holy Father, as the weather cools and the leaves turn bright colors, may we pause and remember your mighty creative power. Oh, how we praise you that you see the sparrow that falls and keep a running count of the hairs on our head. We crave your guidance and blessing as we begin this new month. In Jesus Name we pray…Amen
Below please access one of our most-loved encouragements to you and those around you. My team and I pray our calendar challenge will get you one step closer toward our God, the Ultimate Father, who controls ALL things, including justice, peace, and the nations. 
CLICK HERE for your monthly encouragement so you can download the October 2026 Calendar Challenge.
by Cynthia L Simmons | Sep 24, 2026 | Podcast
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Why the U.S. Army Made Chocolate Taste Like a Boiled Potato
Did you know the U.S. government once intentionally engineered a chocolate bar to taste terrible?
During World War II, the Army Quartermaster Corps partnered with the Hershey Chocolate Corporation to develop an emergency survival ration known as the Field Ration D (or D-Ration bar).
Quick Facts: The WWII “D-Ration” Bar
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The Creator: Commissioned in 1937 under Colonel Paul Logan.
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The Specs: A 4-ounce bar containing approximately 600 calories, formulated with chocolate liquor, skim milk powder, oat flour, and cacao fat.
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Heat Resistance: Designed to withstand high jungle temperatures without melting in a soldier’s pocket.
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The Flavor Mandate: Formulated to taste “a little better than a boiled potato” so soldiers wouldn’t eat it as a casual snack.
Troops loathed the rock-hard chocolate. They nicknamed it “Hitler’s secret weapon” and shaved it with pocketknives to prevent broken teeth. Yet when supply lines collapsed, that bitter emergency provision saved thousands of lives.
The Takeaway: What Are You Carrying in Your Pack?
In this episode, we connect this fascinating historical quirk to vital life questions: Are we squandering our days snacking on empty distractions? Are we stewarding the sacred moments, energy, and gifts God entrusted to us?
Listen in to hear the full story and discover how to trade the frantic noise of temporary cravings for things that truly endure.
by Cynthia L Simmons | Sep 1, 2026 | Blog, Encouragement
September arrives as a gentle turning point… a return to routines, cooler days ahead, and an opportunity to refocus our hearts on what truly matters. It is a beautiful time to embrace new beginnings, nurture the relationships God has given us, and look for His goodness in the ordinary moments of our days.
This month also feels especially tender as we remember our precious Dolly and celebrate a life that touched so many. As we step into September, may we carry gratitude for what has been, hope for what lies ahead, and confidence that God is present in every changing season.
Dear Holy Father, thank you for the privilege to enter your presence in prayer! May we always keep your name holy, and we humbly pray to act as your servants as long as we reside on earth. May all our choices forward your kingdom and bring honor to your name. Help us to love you more than ourselves and seek the good of others. In Jesus Name we pray…Amen
Below please access one of our most-loved encouragements to you and those around you. My team and I pray our calendar challenge will get you one step closer toward our God, the Ultimate Father, who controls ALL things, including justice, peace, and the nations. 
CLICK HERE for your monthly encouragement so you can download the September 2026 Calendar Challenge.
by Cynthia L Simmons | Sep 1, 2026 | Encouragement, Standing for your faith, Stress, wisdom
During the Revolutionary War, the fight between Patriots and Loyalists raged near the South Carolina home of eighteen-year-old Emily Geiger. Both Emily and her father ardently supported the Patriot cause. One day, Emily overheard her disabled father lamenting that General Nathanael Greene desperately needed a courier to reach General Thomas Sumter for reinforcements. Her father longed to volunteer, but his failing health made the perilous ride impossible.
Without waiting for permission, Emily rode straight to General Greene’s camp. She knew the backroads and river crossings, and she offered to carry the dispatch.
Two days into her journey, British scouts captured Emily and brought her to Lord Rawdon’s encampment. Suspicious of the young girl by herself, Rawdon locked her in a room while he sent for a local woman to conduct a thorough search. Emily knew that if the letter were discovered, she would be hanged as a spy. Acting quickly while left alone, she memorized Greene’s dispatch, tore the paper into small pieces, and swallowed them.
When the search yielded no evidence, Lord Rawdon released her. Emily pressed on and delivered the verbal message to General Sumter.
Like Emily Geiger, we face choices every day. Our daily decisions may not involve dodging enemy patrols, but our obedience still carries lasting weight. Eternity itself can be shaped by how you choose to serve today.
“…Present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness…” -Romans 6:13 (NASB)
by Cynthia L Simmons | Aug 29, 2026 | Devotion
Have you ever wondered what early 19th-century photographers were actually doing when they draped that heavy black cloth over their heads and cameras?
In the era of wet plate collodion photography, the chemical emulsion on the glass plate was light-sensitive only while damp. Photographers had to work against the clock, composing and focusing before inserting the negative.
Direct sunlight and ambient daylight washed out the faint, upside-down image projected onto the camera’s ground glass. To solve this, the photographer stepped beneath a dark cloth to block out the outside world. Once their eyes adjusted to the darkness, the faint, inverted scene suddenly came into sharp, brilliant focus.
Stepping Under the Cloth in Daily Life
Sometimes we need to “get under the cloth,” too.
We live in a fast-paced, media-frenzied world full of constant noise, opinions, and distractions. When life feels blurry, inverted, or chaotic, we often try to squint through the glare on our own strength.
Scripture gives us a different invitation:
“Be still, and know that I am God…” — Psalm 46:10
Stepping away into a quiet place with the Lord isn’t an escape; it is where our spiritual vision adjusts. In the stillness, the glare of the world fades, and God’s wisdom and guidance become clear.
Lessons from Moment in Time
This theme is deeply woven into my latest novel, Moment in Time.
Set during a season of great upheaval and change, the characters face sudden turning points and pivotal choices where every path seems fraught with uncertainty. Just like early photographers, they discover that true clarity doesn’t come by running faster—it comes by stepping back, quieting the heart, and trusting God’s greater picture.
This Week’s 5-Minute Challenge
Take just five minutes today to step “under the cloth”:
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Silence your notifications and set aside your phone and computer.
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Step away from the screens and find a quiet chair or corner.
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Sit in stillness with the Lord, opening your hands and asking Him to bring clarity and peace to whatever currently feels blurry or overwhelming in your life.
Join the Conversation
What is one practical way you can “step under the cloth” to find quiet stillness today?
Share your favorite routine or thought in the comments below—I would love to read your reflections!
Key Takeaway: 19th-century photographers used dark cloths to block ambient glare and bring faint images into focus. In the same way, taking intentional quiet time away from daily distractions allows believers to hear God’s voice and gain spiritual clarity in overwhelming seasons.
