Father's Day encourages us to celebrate the men who raise children in our world. For those who've lost or never experienced a nurturing dad, the holiday can prove bittersweet or even bitter. Some fathers face this day with grief, as they've lost children to death or estrangement. Those without the…
The second Sunday of June marks National Abused Women and Children Day. On one hand, I'm glad we acknowledge those who've suffered in secret for at least one day. Despite licensure as a therapist and years of experience with victims, I wasn't aware this day existed. Perhaps we all could…
This week celebrates the remarkable life and impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Decades ago, the visionary reverend shared his hope and values with a tragically fractured culture. He stood out among civil rights leaders as an icon of peace who unified the diverse crowds who supported him. Reverend…
Libraries and bookstores list quite a different set of books in the inspirational category. On a stroll through the aisles of any such purveyor of literature, one may find theology textbooks, Bibles, studies, and devotionals. I treasure the spiritual value these publications provide. For me, such books exceed the term inspirational.…
Delight can prove most challenging when we feel stalled. Others seem to be shining in spotlights and joy, while we seem doomed to linger in the shadows. Despite our hopes of fulfillment, we're stuck in the wings watching others beam with happiness. We seem to churn our days in the…
The stages of grief (Loss, shock, Protest, Disorganization, Reorganization, Recovery) What to say--and what NOT to say-- when responding to those experiencing loss Everyone grieves differently Long term recovery goal is NOT forgetting, but remembering Give space, but don't exclude. Invite, but don't pressure Speak love, not platitudes. [bctt tweet="Silence and…
As crises and horrors abound in today's news reports, tensions have escalated to record highs. The world trends are barreling past stress toward hysteria, and we must choose whether to join the craziness or become part of the solution. We can stand against the tide by adopting grace as our modus…
Buzzing sounds pierced the foggy end of Amber's dream. She rubbed the crick in her neck and lifted her head. The pillow slid behind her armchair as she grabbed her cellphone from the coffee table. "Mm-hello?" She rubbed the blear from her eyes. A gravelly voice rumbled through the phone. "This…
Ever wondered how life can seem too-full, yet hollow all at once? In the midst of our drive to fulfill commitments, the sense of fulfillment drifts out of reach. Heartfires fade to a cool ember and fingertips which once connected us to others grow numb. We needn't be rich to commiserate…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IC315HlITAw Check out The Hiding Place on Amazon.