Discover more from WHILE I PONDER with Karlene
Friends, changes are coming to While I Ponder with Karlene later this year. Today, I’m writing this letter to talk about it, and to answer some questions you may have, in advance.
First, to all my current subscribers…
It’s important to me that you know this. You will continue to receive the same level of content I’ve provided over the past few years.
Some of you have been following my writing for a long time. It’s hard to believe I’ve been doing this for a decade. Thank you to those who have stuck around, and continue to read my words. You have no idea how this has encouraged me time and again.
You will continue to receive, via email and in the Substack app, the always free newsletter. Some months, there may be an additional free edition, so be sure to watch for that.
What is this change that’s coming?
Soon, I will be launching a paid subscription option to While I Ponder with Karlene. This is one of the reasons I moved my online writing over to Substack, where writers get the opportunity to provide both free and paid content, simultaneously.
I know some of you want to ask, “Why would I charge for my writing?” Here’s the explanation from my About page.
First, paid subscriptions aren’t meant to create a barrier, but a way to support me and my work. It’s also a way to create a quieter, more private space in the digital world—a space for more candid writing and conversation.
What I’m doing for the paid subscribers is more than I’ve ever done before. The truth is, this work of writing is a ministry—serving readers with words of encouragement, inspiration, and life-changing biblical insight, as led by the Spirit of God.
If you find yourself interested in upgrading to a paid subscription, perhaps consider the cost an offering to support the ministry that readers like yourself receive here. And, if you decide not to upgrade, I’ll gladly continue sending that free newsletter. You are always welcome here!
What will the paid subscription include?
Those who upgrade to paid subscription status will receive the following additional content.
Always Free newsletter sent to all subscribers.
“Deeper Dive” essays, exploring Scripture and application
Occasional “Q&A Chat Sessions” here on Substack and for your own God-conversations
“The Fast 5” of what I’m reading and loving with resource links + more candid heart-pondering from me
“This Joy is Yours” free e-course
Access to the full archives*
What will the paid subscription cost?
A paid subscription to ‘While I Ponder with Karlene’ is USD 5/month or 30/annual. ($5/month is the lowest rate Substack allows me to offer for monthly.)
Will there be a discount for existing subscribers?
Yes, existing subscribers will receive 50% Off on an annual (12-month) paid subscription upgrade! Once the paid subscription launches, I’ll email you a link to take advantage of this discount. (There will be an expiration date on the 50% discount.) Also, a 7-day free trial will be available to any reader.
If you are in a season of financial hardship and unable to fit the cost of a paid subscription into your monthly budget, I do not want this to be a hindrance for you. Once I launch the paid subscription option, send me a message at whileiponderkarlene@substack.com and we’ll work it out.
In closing…
For a while now, each time you receive an email from me, there’s a note at the bottom about the paid subscription coming soon. I felt it was time to give you more information, and hope this has been helpful.
Paid subscription has launched!
— Karlene