Life is a marvelously messy tapestry of threads formed by—not only—all the people, plants, animals, and rest of material reality; but also, by our thoughts, words, and deeds. Shaming, judgmentalism, holding oneself as “better than,” living from fear, cutting words, self-centeredness, an “us versus them” mentality, violence, defensiveness, seeking to “win,” and inner-criticism—for example—all tear … Continue reading Love Al(l)ways
On this Summer Solstice: May we remember, even when we can't see the Light, it is always shining on and through us. May the sun remind you, you are always and forever loved. Just as the infinite twinkle of the stars symbolizes your limitless worth; while the earth lets you know you are at home … Continue reading A Solstice Blessing
The other day, Lisa told me: "One lifetime with you isn't enough." 🥰 That might be the most loving thing anyone has told me! I share that, not only to celebrate our love and partnership, but also because I think it points to a life truth: YOU are an endlessly knowable, magical, miracle of amazingness. Words, titles, societal pressures, labels, … Continue reading Unwrapping the Gift of You
You know how we regularly struggle and sweat to get physically fit? Increasingly, it seems to me the same is true for relational “fitness” … and might even be a key to healing our political, racial, and other divides. In other words: Real love is messy. It embraces uncomfortableness by courageously choosing to vulnerably share our scary stuff, … Continue reading Love is Messy: Getting Uncomfortable to Get “Fit”
While the types of seeds, nutrients, and protections we put in a garden determine the fruits, veggies, and flowers it will grow; the thoughts, mentalities, and beliefs we cultivate in our minds shape who we become. For instance, while decades of valuing winning made me quite competitive, sometimes in unkind ways, years of championing unity is making … Continue reading Gardening Our Minds for Goodness
Love resides in the pause. What I mean by that is while my first words, or reaction, to something I disagree with, don't like, or feel pressure or opposition from are generally not helpful or are unkind: Pausing, breathing, and giving my thoughts time to settle, creates space for love to move in. Can you relate? In many … Continue reading The Power of the Pause
For years I hurt my family, friends, and self by being solely the strong, silent type. You see, I bought into the notions that silence was strength, vulnerability was weakness, and control was power. Now, though, I believe: Sharing is strength, vulnerability is courageous, and open-heartedness is power. Why? While there are a number of reasons, Jesus … Continue reading Vulnerability is the New Strength
What do you do with hurtful or hard words from others? While part of me likes to ruminate on them, defend myself, and/or formulate comebacks that will "show them", my real self knows there's a better way: Reframing. Beginning with the awareness that love is the point, and life is a laboratory for learning to love well, … Continue reading Transforming Hurtful/Hard Words Into Helpful Ones
Good is enough … and so are YOU! In middle school I yearned to be a championship winning NBA player. In high school I planned to win a Nobel Prize. In college I intended to be rich. In the air force I worked to make a name for myself. In trying to be a pastor, I … Continue reading Good is Enough (and So are YOU!)
My grandma Pearlette, lovingly called "GMa", turned 90 this month. Which means she grew up during the Great Depression and WWII. It blows my mind how much she had to do to get a good education and establish herself in the world! What is more, when my dad was in elementary school, her husband was … Continue reading GMa’s Gift of Inspiration
Grace and Peace Yoga 