Reasons we unfriend and disengage… *She said too much. *He didn’t say enough. *She went off script and didn’t behave as expected. *He left your church or group. *She challenged your thinking. *He misquoted a reference. *She used a four letter word in a passionate post. *He doesn’t vote like you. *She is too emotional.…… Continue reading #Sowkind in all Seasons
As an English teacher, the idea of narratives is ever on my mind and infused into conversations. It’s easy to discuss and analyze a dynamic character; what motivates the character to action, what lie does the character believe, and what is the catalyst for their ultimate change? I think we instinctively do that in life.…… Continue reading Turning Kindness Inward: A Personal Narrative
Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10 (NIV) Volunteer opportunities, extracurricular activities, performances, and meetings occupy more real estate on my calendar than I care to admit. There is no shortage of demand on my time. Add in chasing my hopes and calling, being a good neighbor and…… Continue reading Why You Should Rest
Day after day, he arrives at his post. He is both weathered and unwavering. This is his job. The intersection hosts continuous traffic as the main artery to a major highway. He knows this and so assumes his stoic position between the lanes. His tattered sign simply reads, traveling. My husband refers to this gentleman…… Continue reading Seeing Beyond Mere Words
Automatic headlights are annoying. I’m convinced they are evil. I’ve had several experiences where a car is blinding me with all the brightness. I’m not talking about cars a mile or more behind me-either. Just last night, while my daughter was driving home, the chap behind us compromised our ability to see with all the brightness. Not exaggerating…promise. Without…… Continue reading Are You a Creature of Habit?
I have a legit obsession with old doors and windows. When this love affair started I can’t say exactly, but it’s deeply rooted. My eyes are drawn to 8 paned windows, old barn doors, and discarded shutters. If within my sight, they are in my hands and I’m examining the paint while considering all the lovely uses…… Continue reading When Life Leaves You Unhinged
One of my favorite past times is listening to stories. I like the stories that send you in a laughing frenzy and those of heroic adventure, but I’m most drawn to those I’m entrusted with, who find a space at my table. The tenderness in their voice always draws me in a little closer as…… Continue reading The Lost Art of Telling Stories
John 4 captures one of my favorite interactions in the Bible. If you’ve never read it, I urge you to invest a few minutes and do so. The story centers around the town well and includes Jesus and a woman from Samaria. Historically speaking, Jesus {because he was a Jew} should not have had anything…… Continue reading Leave Your Water Jar
We were in unfamiliar territory. I guess that’s what made my request bold {or stupid}. I asked, nonetheless. Lord, would you let someone affirm me today? Yes, I know I’m in Orlando {1,000 miles from home} and it’s likely I won’t know a single soul at Disney, but please? {Then I crossed my arms and…… Continue reading For the Love {of Answered Prayers}
It was the intersection of my guilt and the Lord’s prompting. My breathing became shallow and my heart thumped wildly. With everything in me, I didn’t like where this was leading. It’s a moment I won’t soon forget. Jesus was directing me to confess my failure—to Him…and to someone I wronged. Confession. There’s something we…… Continue reading The Liberating Power of Confession
Alyssa DeLosSantos 