All the Blessings
I enter into the dark, empty classroom to enact the twenty year old ritual of praying in that sacred space before the students arrive. I pray over the room, touch each seat, and call forth blessing on the student who will sit in that seat. This is a sacred vocation. I cannot help what I […]
Take the Feedback
For 2019, I’m thinking of how deeply feedback matters. When you think about the areas of your life and wonder about your performance, who offers you feedback? Who has the wisdom and expertise to provide developmental guidance on any area of your life from housekeeping, meals, career, finances, relationships, spiritual growth, marriage, parenting, fitness, etc. […]
From Cookies to Quinoa
I need a large sealable container for the addictive and amazing Tex-Mex Quinoa Salad with Black Beans and Corn, and I reach for the faithful Christmas cookie container. That’s January: I trade cookies for quinoa.
The Small, Local Things
After my large speaking event, a woman approached me and said, “You know my favorite thing about you? You’re so ordinary. I mean, you go home and make soup for your neighbors and teach your classes and just live in your town.” I said, “Me too. I think that’s also my favorite thing.” I recently […]
Some Speaking Photos
Moment by Moment
I think about living moment by moment in God’s grace, under His mercy, and covered by His inexhaustible blessing. I have access to everything I need now, in this moment. But when I think about tomorrow, I’m overwhelmed. I choose to discipline my mind to enjoy this moment’s miraculous provision. Tomorrow, I’ll have what I […]
Same Message, Updated Delivery
I’m learning what it means to update my methods–in both teaching and speaking–to help engage audiences, keep me on my toes, and prevent burnout. I’ve heard that many teachers simply burn out after years of teaching the same material. They’re bored. The audiences are bored. Everyone is bored. The teacher might therefore change the content […]
Expansive Inside
I return to Jacques Philippe’s Interior Freedom. This little book helps you understand the expansive interior freedom you have in Christ that no external circumstance can touch. It’s wonderful to remember everything we have in Christ–in our souls–that generates abundant life wherever we are, no matter how restricted we feel externally.
A Hike
We find Raven Rock State Park along the Cape Fear River. What a wonderful hike!
Remember a Quick Stroll
Grab your shoes. Put on a sweater. Take a stroll. Enjoy your surroundings. Listen to your own breath or some music through your headphones. Walk beside a friend and talk about anything and everything that comes to mind. Turn your face into the sun. Taking a walk, especially during holiday travel (where you’re likely sitting […]