She looked at me with tears streaming down my face and said, “It’s not about you.” At the moment, it felt harsh, but it was truth. That’s the reason I […]
You’re My Promised Land
Our congregation enjoyed their first service in our brand new building this past Sunday. I didn’t go. The truth is, I have been both anticipating and dreading this day for […]
How I Wish: Spending Your Birthday Without You
How I wish I could wake you at dawn with a “happy birthday” kiss and snuggle my head into that perfect little spot between your shoulder and your heart that […]
When I Am Afraid
Last night, we did some sunset tubing on the lake. My youngest had been looking forward to it all day, but when the time came for her to get on […]
In God We Trust: When God Calls You to Hard Things
In God we trust. But what does that mean? I thought I knew, but I’m learning trust at a whole new level these days. For my first 21 years, I […]
The Thorn: When God Doesn’t Heal the Wound
Guest post by Kat Smith I wish this was easier; I wish God would just provide healing and escape. But maybe I won’t ever find peace on this earth. Maybe […]
I Surrender All. Even This…
I’ve been a fighter since birth. Strong-willed, passionate, determined, stubborn, pig-headed—whatever you want to call it—that’s me. It’s not all bad. It saved my life, once upon a time. It […]
The Cave of Grief
They say one of the darkest places on earth is the “dark zone” inside a cave. Sure, people have successfully lived in the entrance of caves for millennia, but something […]
I Can’t Do This, It Hurts Too Much
“I can’t do this! It hurts too much.” I remember looking up at my husband with pleading eyes and saying these words. And he looked down at me with compassion […]
Going On a Bear Hunt in the Valley of Suffering
When I was in kindergarten, I used to love going on bear hunts. You know, the kind that take place in your imagination as you repeat after the teacher… We’re […]
My Story: The Pastor’s Widow
If I told you my story… I see my life in three chapters. Chapter one was my life before Jeremy. Chapter two was my life with Jeremy. Chapter three is […]
Joy and Sadness: Inside Out Living
A couple of years ago, we saw a cute, animated movie about the happenings inside a 12-yr-old girl’s mind. Each quirky character in “Inside Out” represents an emotion the preteen […]