“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33 I know I’ve written about it before (see this and this), but I love the truth and transparency of this verse. Jesus promises … Continue reading Look for the Manna
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Just Passing Through
I’ve been thinking a lot about valleys this week. Feeling like I’m in one; walking through one. Wanting to reflect, be curious and aware, and try to define it. What kind of valley is it this time? I’m familiar with valleys: physical and spiritual, literal and metaphorical. Over the past 17 years, we’ve lived mostly … Continue reading Just Passing Through
Help Wanted
Last weekend, I started reading The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk. I’m about 75% done, which is saying a lot. I’m not in my reading era, and this is not an easy read. I suppose if you haven’t experienced much trauma (or you’ve healed from it), or if you’re more familiar … Continue reading Help Wanted
Two Truths and a Lie
“For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 1:6 (NASB) “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor … Continue reading Two Truths and a Lie
To Whom It May Concern
To any reading this who are victims, to those who have faced impossible circumstances and devastating trials: I just want to say how proud I am of you. You are so brave. You did whatever you could to survive. What happened to you is not okay. That friend should not have betrayed you. That family … Continue reading To Whom It May Concern
In Loving Memory
Last weekend my sister and I took a quick trip to Seattle to see family and attend a memorial for our Grandma Ries. Rosemary’s story was often a mystery to us. I’ve been told her life was not an easy one. I’ve always wondered why she disliked and avoided having her picture taken. I feel … Continue reading In Loving Memory
Valley After Valley
Recently I’ve been reflecting on our different seasons and chapters, our various moves and the similar challenges in each new place. It was then that I realized: I’ve spent the majority of my adulthood living in four different valleys. I lived in the same small town for 21 years (Marysville, Washington). And then my family … Continue reading Valley After Valley
My Race to Run 