tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87600190969175511562024-03-13T21:58:19.885-07:00Thinking Out Loud On Purpose"Thoughts from a heart shining bright in a dark world..."Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger113125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-79870715937815315092015-03-19T14:48:00.001-07:002020-08-27T09:44:24.000-07:00Art of Work: A Proven Path to Discovering What You Were Meant to Do<div class="blogaway-section">
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Are you tired of mediocrity? Sick of the status quo? <br />
<br />
If so, why not consider another option? <b>Living a life that matters.</b><br />
<br />
Not sure where to begin or how that "would look?" <br />
<br />
My friend Jeff Goins has a new book coming out that can help with your questions.<br />
<br />
It is true. The path to your life's work is both difficult and mysterious. Because of this many grow weary or quit along the way instead of finishing the journey. <br />
<br />
And by journey, I mean arriving at the place of finding your true life's vocation. Not just a job that pays the bills but your calling which is so much more.<br />
<br />
<b><i>The Art of Work</i></b> is about discovering your true calling—that thing you were born to do.<br />
<br />
As Jeff explains, the search begins with passion but does not end there. Only when our interests connect with the needs of the world do we begin living for a larger purpose. Those who experience this intersection experience something exceptional and enviable.<br />
<br />
Though it is rare, such a life is attainable by anyone brave enough to try.<br />
<br />
Through personal experience, compelling stories, and current research on the mysteries of motivation and talent, Jeff shows readers how to find their vocation and what to expect along the way.<br />
<br />
For a very limited time (offer ends <u>March</u> 23rd) you can get the book for free, just by paying the shipping and handling, and enjoy some additional bonuses. To learn more about that, and to place your order, go to <a href="http://www.artofworkbook.com/">www.ArtOfWorkBook.com</a>. <br />
<br />
You'll also find additional free resources on the website. <br />
<br />
I've read the book and will be sharing my thoughts on it in the near future. The short version would be this... I learned a lot and shed some erroneous notions that had been holding me back for years.<br />
<br />
Get the book if you are feeling unsure of what you're meant to do or dissatisfied with what you are currently doing. It might just change your life pivoting you into a whole new direction. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-36489529803895096322015-03-13T14:40:00.003-07:002021-10-24T12:51:55.126-07:00Why we should all strive to be poor<div style="padding: 5px; text-align: center;">
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In a world where material riches is often equated with spiritual blessing nobody wants less. <br />
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We all want more.<br />
<br />
Things weren't totally different in Jesus' times, either. Those who had wealth were often seen as more spiritual. <br />
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They loved to fluent their riches.<br />
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Let's not kid ourselves, we fall prey to the very same temptation. We want to measure our worth by what we have. <br />
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We want others to do so, too.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>But Jesus presented a different approach. His kingdom economics were radically different. And for some, impossible to understand. The math just didn't add up for them. <br />
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Jesus approached things spiritually.<br />
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They thought in natural terms. Their eyes were on the outward. His were on the inward. They looked to the temporal. He focused on the eternal.<br />
<br />
"Great blessings belong to you who are poor..."<br />
<br />
And by poor, He meant destitute. Completely impoverished. There were social and economic classes in His time just as there are in ours. We're talking no resources. <br />
<br />
"God's kingdom belongs to you.."<br />
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How maddening that must have been for the religious crowd to hear. How offensive to those who judged their position with God by their possessions, ability to keep the law, or pedigree. <br />
<br />
He shattered illusions.<br />
<br />
Jesus wanted them to understand, and for us to also grasp these words. He knew it must first be understood that He was speaking of spiritual poverty. Being poor in spirit means having no spiritual resources. <br />
<br />
Why would poverty be a blessing?<br />
<br />
Because those who are able to acknowledge their "poverty of the spirit" realize that because they have absolutely nothing, they must rely on God for absolutely everything they need.<br />
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This is a prerequisite for receiving the kingdom.<br />
<br />
As long as a person is under the illusion that they are spiritually resourceful they are unable and unwilling to rely on God. <br />
<br />
Their default will always be fleshly, worldly, and temporal. <br />
<br />
But, when a person acknowledges that they are nothing and have nothing apart from God they are able to experience what is spiritual, heavenly, and eternal. <br />
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This is where the kingdom lies.<br />
<br />
Which is why each one of us should strive to be poor. We should desire to be beggars living in abject poverty.<br />
<br />
Poor in spirit. <br />
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Apart from recognizing our state of spiritual destitution we have no way of fully relating to or relying on God. And isn't that what kingdom living requires? Fully relating and relying on God.<br />
<br />
To do so we must be beggars. Dirt poor. Broke. Busted.<br />
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"Jesus looked at his followers and said, “Great blessings belong to you who are poor. God’s kingdom belongs to you." Luke 6:20 <u>ERV</u><br />
<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-51345970185471366442015-02-03T14:10:00.002-08:002015-02-03T14:10:16.662-08:00By Your Side: A Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i>The book: </i></b>ER nurse Macy Wynn learned essential, gritty lessons in the California foster care system: land on your feet and trust no one. She’s finally located the fellow foster child she loves like a sister, but the girl’s in deep trouble. Macy’s determined to help, no matter what it takes. Her motto is to “make it happen” in any situation life throws at her—even when she butts heads with an idealistic cop.<br />
<br />
Deputy Fletcher Holt believes in a higher plan, the fair outcome—and his ability to handle that by himself if necessary. Now he’s been yanked from Houston, his mother is battling cancer, and he’s attracted to a strong-willed nurse who could be the target of a brutal sniper.<br />
<br />
When everything goes wrong, where do they put their trust?<br />
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<i><b>The review: </b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Your-Side-Crisis-Team-ebook/dp/B00LPQLIYU/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">By Your Side</a></i>, the first book in Candace Calvert's new Crisis Team series, really starts off with a bang--literally. Holy smokes did this story hit the ground running! (<a href="http://candacecalvert.com/excerpt_bys.html" target="_blank">read an excerpt here</a>)<br />
<br />
I've been a reader of Calvert's books since her first novel. The last series, Grace Medical, was my favorite until this one came along. Now, I'm finding myself torn but that's a good thing. <br />
<br />
Calvert was a great writer to begin with but even the best get better with time. I've seen the development of this author's ability to craft a story grow and grow. And just when I thought she'd written her very best book ever, she has surprised me with one that is even better. <br />
<br />
This book had me at the very first page. Typically it takes time for me to warm up to characters, in any fiction story, but not so in this case. There are always a few lingering references, at the least, to already familiar characters from past books. But even if there weren't the new characters in <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Your-Side-Crisis-Team-ebook/dp/B00LPQLIYU/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">By Your Side</a></i> grabbed my heart immediately. <br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Your-Side-Crisis-Team-ebook/dp/B00LPQLIYU/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">By Your Side</a></i> highlights the difficult and sometimes unrecognized work of hospital chaplains. I've often considered becoming one. This book has caused me to ponder that decision further. It also made me thankful for those already serving as chaplains. They can't be honored enough for their committed compassionate service. <br />
<br />
One of the great strengths of this writer is her ability, in the midst of the narrative, to touch on very sensitive issues bringing their complexities to light. In this book a few of the issues that stand out are life-threatening illnesses, foster care, addiction, and mental illness.<br />
<br />
Calvert's style isn't one that is preachy but rather lends itself to gently nudging others to view these issues through the lens of faith. As such each story she writes brings hope. Her books are often times referred to as "hope operas" and rightly so. <br />
<br />
The backdrop for <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Your-Side-Crisis-Team-ebook/dp/B00LPQLIYU/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">By Your Side</a></i> is Sacramento which is the author's hometown. Many times while reading I felt as if I were there. That's fiction writing at it's best. Calvert's familiarity with the area makes it possible for her to paint vivid pictures of the scenery. And of course not only can she take you to the scene she can put you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what is coming next. <br />
<br />
And speaking of what is coming next, I'm already anxiously awaiting the next book in this series. I know, I know. This review is supposed to be about this book. Yet to say much more would give away plots and spoil your potential experience as a reader. I can tell you this. I'm missing the characters already. <br />
<br />
You can <a href="http://www.amazon.com/By-Your-Side-Crisis-Team/dp/1414390327/ref=tmm_pap_title_0" target="_blank">pre</a><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/null" target="_blank">-order <i>By Your Side</i> here</a>. The release date is pending. I anticipate it will be earlier than projected. <br />
<br />
I will work to get my hands on a copy of the next book prior to the release date just as I have the last two. I don't do this often but Candace Calvert's writing is that good. I find myself driven her books as soon as they go to print. Each time I get to the end one my only disappointment is having to wait for the next one. <br />
<br />
What can I say? I love this author's work. <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Your-Side-Crisis-Team-ebook/dp/B00LPQLIYU/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">By Your Side</a></i> is a great read. It is only the beginning of what I know is going to be an outstanding series.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hn66BjxOTog/UwF473X48QI/AAAAAAAABws/GHXMcb4Q5zI/s1600/candy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hn66BjxOTog/UwF473X48QI/AAAAAAAABws/GHXMcb4Q5zI/s1600/candy.jpg" height="200" width="149" /></a><i><b>The author:</b></i> Often called the author of "medical hope opera," Candace Calvert is an ER nurse who landed on the other side of the stethoscope after the equestrian accident that
broke her neck and convinced her love, laughter--and faith--are the very
best medicines of all.<br />
<br />
Her popular medical drama series (Mercy Hospital and Grace Medical) offer readers a chance to "scrub in" on the exciting world of emergency medicine, along with charismatic
characters, pulse-pounding action, tender romance, humor, suspense--and
an encouraging prescription for hope. Think "Grey's Anatomy finds its
soul"!<br />
<br />
A native northern Californian, mother of two and proud grandmother to seven, Candace is a passionate "foodie," equally at home with a whisk in her hand as she is penning stories. Folks who follow her on <a href="https://twitter.com/CandaceCalvert" target="_blank">Twitter </a>and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Candace-Calvert-Books/164196907024" target="_blank">Facebook</a> will find photo-embellished recipes, funny insights into the writing life, snippets of upcoming work, and a chance at book giveaways. Please visit her website at: <a href="http://www.candacecalvert.com/">www.candacecalvert.com</a>. She loves to hear from her readers! <br />
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(I was given an ARC of <i>By Your Side</i>. The choice to review it was mine.)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-35447872443234340392015-01-22T09:49:00.001-08:002020-08-28T21:06:10.139-07:00What Happened When Termites Ate My Mementos <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sunshine warmed the slightly chilly air on a late spring afternoon. Determined to conquer the dreaded task before summer arrived, with all its sweltering heat, I asked my husband for help getting started. <br />
<br />
Four boxes stood in the corner of our garage. <br />
<br />
They’d been living there since we moved from out of state over a decade ago. Once in a while when we brushed past them, on the way to the car, I would make a mental note to go through them in the near future. <br />
<br />
I never followed through. <br />
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On that day the smell of mildew wafted through the air as I looked over at the boxes. They didn’t appear damp but were the most likely culprit. Cardboard and humid air aren’t the best combination. <br />
<br />
I purposed to empty them out. <br />
<br />
Three were labeled in permanent marker as “school books.” I couldn’t help but feel intrigued. I’d earned my bachelor’s degree in 1986. Typically, I sold my books at the end of each term to be able to afford the next semester’s books. If I’d held on to them, they had to be special.<br />
<br />
I was about to find out. <br />
<br />
Opening the first three boxes, I discovered some of my psychology textbooks as well as a few from my husband’s days of studying to become an electrician. Most of them weren’t anything we were interested in, as by this time new editions were available, but they did bring back some fond memories. <br />
<br />
I piled them up for Goodwill. <br />
<br />
Taking a deep breath, I opened the remaining box which had my name on it but nothing else telling. Inside were yearbooks, scrapbook clippings, photos, and other items with which I had been unable to part. <br />
<br />
It’s interesting how objects prompt memories. <br />
<br />
I pulled out my “Little Bo Peep” doll. Her arm dangled loosely from inside the elastic band of her sleeve. I’d fought with it even as a child. But, her curls still remained perfectly intact. I found that remarkable. <br />
<br />
I dug in further looking for treasures from my younger days. <br />
<br />
Several books that my grandmother had bought me, as a girl, were there just beneath the toys. I’d read one of them so many times that the cover had long ago fallen off. <br />
<br />
Whenever my Grams gave me a book she would always write something inside. Running my fingers across her handwriting, I was grateful that she was now living a mere ten houses away. <br />
<br />
Had I visited her enough lately? <br />
<br />
Life has a way of getting away from us quickly. For the first time in years I was spending less time in the hospital which meant more time for ministry. But was I paying the right amounts of attention to my family members? Was I loving them well? Suddenly, I felt unsure. <br />
<br />
I resolved to fix that immediately. <br />
<br />
Digging down further, I found a lot of dust in the box. I mean crumb-sized dust. As I picked up the scrapbook, which came with my high school graduation announcements, so many memories flashed through my mind. <br />
<br />
I slowly opened it up. <br />
<br />
To my shock the pages were holey. They looked like Swiss cheese. Digging down through a pile of sawdust, I found my high school yearbooks in the very same condition. <br />
<br />
The covers were intact but the inside was nothing but dust-filled pages full of holes. <br />
<br />
What possibly could have happened, I wondered. By this time I’d called my husband out to investigate the situation. Staring down into the box I wasn’t sure if I could bear to pull another item out. <br />
<br />
The tears had begun to fall. <br />
<br />
Just about that time I noticed a very light-colored winged bug walking around in the box. Although not freaked out by insects, I’m not a fan of them, either. I was even less enchanted when my better half pointed out that they were termites. <br />
<br />
Termites are very common in the South. <br />
<br />
We had our home treated on an annual basis as well as inspected every year. Not once had any sign of activity ever been found. At least not until that moment. The destructive little bugs who most often feast on wood had bypassed our door frames and crawlspace content to make their home inside my box of mementos instead. <br />
<br />Afterall, books are made from trees. <br />
<br />
Our son came out and looked into the box which, by this time, brought disgust to all three of us. I was forced to reach in and salvage what I could. Not much could be saved and by this time I just wanted the task to end. <br />
<br />
I pulled a few more things from the rubble. <br />
<br />
Meanwhile with a tone of mild sadness my son said, “It’s as if your entire past has been destroyed.” Gone. Eaten by sneaky little bugs. Initially, I thought that, too.<br />
<br />
It felt like a huge loss. <br />
<br />
But then I was reminded of a Scripture. <i>“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal.”</i> Matthew 6:19 <br />
<br />
The mementos were evidence of memorable moments but were they treasures? <br />
<br />
Reading over the damaged pages, I couldn’t even remember some of the people who’d signed my “senior memories” book. Others I had not been in touch with for years. A few hadn’t been sincere in the first place. <br />
<br />
That younger “me” was gone. <br />
<br />
She’d been gone for a very long time. I missed her on mornings when I got out of bed with body aches, popping joints, and slowed movements. She’d never experienced more than a broken finger and had been relatively healthy. But she had issues still like fearfulness, self-consciousness, and insecurity. <br />
<br />
I’d grown over the thirty plus years. <br />
<br />
Not arrived but grown enough to let go of those earlier days which had been seemingly ground to dust. In my heart I felt that God would allow me to recall what was important for my life story. The rest didn’t matter anyway.<br />
<br />
The real treasure was still with me. <br />
<br />
I hugged my guys a little tighter than usual before getting on my candy apple red scooter and turning the key to start it up. Slipping a fragile book in the basket, so I’d have both hands free to steer, I made my way over to my parents’ house where part of my treasure was. <br />
<br />
Suddenly it was as if I was seeing through new eyes. <br />
<br />
I walked in the house, making my usual commotion, to find my Grams sitting in a chair in the living room. I showed her the book, all tattered and worn, and we talked about when she got it for me. I think she was surprised that I’d kept it all those years. <br />
<br />
It had been pivotal in my coming to Christ.<br />
<br />
With tears streaming down my cheeks, I thanked her for being such a godly influence in my life. I also apologized for not visiting with her more frequently. That was something that I planned to remedy right away. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-51kqObDWejo/VMGy8kHeImI/AAAAAAAACYs/GZKQmwU6q10/s1600/3gen_edited_edited.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-51kqObDWejo/VMGy8kHeImI/AAAAAAAACYs/GZKQmwU6q10/s1600/3gen_edited_edited.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, Grams, & Mom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And, I did. <br />
<br />
We often enjoyed long conversations after that. I was impressed by her ability to recall things that even I had forgotten. We went on special outings, with my mom, to make new memories. How precious for three generations of women to spend time together. Those were some of the best moments of my life.<br />
<br />
Mementos have value but the people we make memories with are the real treasures. <br />
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<i>"All we take with us into eternity are our relationships with God and each other."</i> Dean Kerns<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-73507734296514069022015-01-20T16:40:00.000-08:002017-08-09T19:37:16.088-07:00How Life's Thorniest Paths Can Lead To Great Joy <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-paKQgq9IlPo/VL7oN52d21I/AAAAAAAACYM/E-ihqdHYhQ8/s1600/GREAT-JOY-300x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-paKQgq9IlPo/VL7oN52d21I/AAAAAAAACYM/E-ihqdHYhQ8/s1600/GREAT-JOY-300x300.jpg" title="" /></a> I lay still that early winter morn soaking in the silence of the house. Our bedroom remained artificially dark by the drawn window shade. My head was pounding and nothing could stop the battle that raged deep within. <br />
<br />
The sound of the ringer on the phone interrupted the internal dialogue. <br />
<br />
Picking up the receiver I heard the voice of a woman from a Bible study group I’d attended at a local church. We’d not connected in a while due to my ongoing medical issues. <br />
<br />
She explained that God had told her to call me and read a page from her devotional <i>Streams in the Desert</i>. She didn’t know why or have anything else to say and only wanted to be obedient. <br />
<br />
Here’s an excerpt of what she read...<i> </i><br />
<br />
<i>“My child, I have a message for you today; let me whisper it in your ear, that it may gild with glory any storm clouds which may arise, and smooth the rough places upon which you may have to tread. It is short, only five words, but let them sink into your inmost soul; use them as a pillow upon which to rest your weary head. <b>This thing is from Me.</b> <br /><br /><b>Have you ever thought of it, that all that concerns you concerns Me too?</b> For, “he that toucheth you, toucheth the apple of mine eye” (Zech. 2:8). You are very precious in My sight. (Isa. 43:4) Therefore, it is My special delight to educate you.<br /><br />I would have you learn when temptations assail you, and the “enemy comes in like a flood,” that this thing is from Me, that <b>your weakness needs My might, and your safety lies in letting Me fight for you.</b> <br /><br /><b>Are you in difficult circumstances, surrounded by people who do not understand you, who never consult your taste, who put you in the background? This thing is from Me. I am the God of circumstances. Thou camest not to thy place by accident, it is the very place God meant for thee.” </b>(emphases mine) (pg. 56-57)</i><br />
<br />
Later I’d discover that, even though it was the month of November, this devotional entry was from February 1st. What I’ve shared is only a portion. You can find the rest <a href="http://www.youdevotion.com/streams/february/1" target="_blank">online here</a>. <br />
<br />
I’d begun crying after the first sentence and when she finished reading, through a stifled sob, thanked her for her obedience before hanging up the phone. <br />
<ul>
<li>She didn’t know that I’d just been through one of the worst medical debacles ever.</li>
<li>She had no idea that after three hours in the operating room a team of surgeons who’d promised they could release my contractured foot had deemed my case too difficult.</li>
<li> She didn’t hear my “ugly crying” as it echoed throughout the surgical unit when I was informed, by some of the best, that my condition required a higher level of expertise. </li>
<li>She hadn’t heard the bickering between specialists who each insisted it was the other who was afraid to operate.</li>
<li>She couldn’t see that being “examined under anesthesia” had further crippled me.</li>
<li>She wasn’t aware that as I lay there in the dark the tentacles of despair worked tirelessly to choke every remaining ounce of hope from my heart.</li>
<li>She’d not heard my faint prayer as tears soaked my pillow: “God, where are You? What happens now?”</li>
</ul>
<br />
But God had seen and heard it all.<br />
<br />
In fact, He knew about this battle long before it ever began. He had been with me every step of the way. Twice He’d spared my life. I’d traveled a very long road of sickness and suffering before arriving at this place. <br />
<br />
The corner of doubt and despair. <br />
<br />
And in that place He reached down and literally whispered in my ear. Using the voice of an unwitting obedient servant He reminded me that, not only was I in the center of His will, but that He would fight for me. <br />
<br />
Joy didn’t immediately flood my soul but regaining a sense of God’s presence brought tremendous relief. <br />
<br />
The next few days were spent unearthing myself from the fog of general anesthesia while fielding calls from three different physicians volleying my case back and forth like a hot potato. In some ways it was akin to a scene out of <i>The Three Stooges</i>. I listened a lot and spoke very little. Laughed once or twice. <br />
<br />
I had no idea what God was up to but He was the only One worth trusting at this point. <br />
<br />
That Saturday, I received a call from the specialist in East Tennessee who’d more recently been in charge of my care. He had set up an appointment on Monday with a surgeon over there. By this time, I felt a wide range of emotions and only slightly hopeful. <br />
<br />
On Sunday evening the phone rang. <br />
<br />
The voice on the other end radiated joy. We’d only met once or twice. He’d fitted me for an orthotic. “You’ve been on my mind,” he said. “I thought I would give you a call. What’s happening?” <br />
<br />
Boy did he open a can of worms. <br />
<br />
I shared with him my recent experience hardly stopping to take a breath. When I finished he laughed and said, “Let me get this straight. You’re depressed because you have an appointment with the best foot surgeon this side of the Mississippi River in the morning, right?” <br />
<br />
Wait, what? <br />
<br />
Before our conversation ended, I discovered that not only did this man know the surgeon; he’d worked with him in the operating room for years. He felt that the appointment was all God’s doing, promised to be in prayer, and offered additional words of hope before hanging up. <br />
<br />
I sat on the edge of the bed in total awe. <br />
<br />
Twice, in one week, God had used people who hardly knew me to deliver words of truth I desperately needed to hear. Our “church family” had long ago walked away. Most doctors didn’t even want to hear my name. <br />
<br />
But they were not God. <br />
<br />
God knew my name. Apparently He knew my phone number, too. He also knew which of His kids could be entrusted to obediently follow His nudging so that He could minister to me in a very personal way at one of the lowest points in my life. <br />
<br />
As I allowed it all to sink in I could feel the vice-like grip that despair had on my heart break loose.<br />
<br />
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Although there was no way to predict the outcome of the next day’s appointment in that moment only one thing mattered--maybe two. God fiercely loved me and would walk with me all the way even carrying me if necessary. <br />
<br />
This was cause for great joy. <br />
<br />
This difficult time in my life resurfaced recently while reading Margaret Feinberg’s book <a href="https://draft.blogger.com/"><b><i><span id="goog_1222576299"></span>Fight Back With Joy</i></b></a><span id="goog_1222576300"></span>. Feinberg is no stranger to suffering and pain having recently fought an intense 18 month battle with breast cancer. <br />
<br />
During the battle she made an amazing discovery. It is the very foundation of what surely must be her most vulnerably written book yet. <b><i>“More than whimsy, joy is a weapon we use to fight life’s battles.” </i></b><br />
<br />
You might nod your head yes emphatically if you’ve never had more than a “bad hair day.” But if you’ve gone through or are currently going through gut-wrenching, heart-breaking, bone-crushing hardship, your response might be different. <br />
<br />
You might argue or ask questions like “what about when things seem to be unbearable OR unbelievable OR both? Can we experience joy then?"<br />
<br />
We can, but it requires shattering some illusions about joy first. Margaret does an excellent job of that. <br />
<br />
<i>“The biggest myth about joy is that it only flourishes in good times, or that it is only a byproduct of positive experiences. We assume that when everyone has a clean bill of health, when the kids are well behaved, when the spouse is attentive, and when the bank balance has on extra zero, inner exuberance develops most easily.”</i> (pg. 62) <br />
<br />
<i>“Trials can become the gateway to greater joy, but these passages are fraught with obstacles. The roadside is dotted with land mines, inhabited by bandits, overgrown with briars. Telling someone to look for blessings in the midst of burden, however true, is hard to swallow and even more difficult to execute. But the spiritual growth we experience in trying times, though often more gradual and painful than we’d like, is occasion for celebration. <br /><br /><b>It’s not in the absence of difficulties but in their presence that God bestows a mighty blessing on us.” </b></i>(pg. 60)<br />
<br />
The story I shared is just one example of a time when God has revealed Himself to me in a greater way while in a hard place. In those moments when the path grows increasingly painful, it seems that He fully has my attention and I become more aware of His presence in my life. The thorny places challenge me to trust Him in new ways and more clearly see Him working on my behalf. And often I am able to spot blessings that I would have missed otherwise. <br />
<br />
<i><b>“Life’s thorniest paths can lead to great joy.”</b></i> Margaret Feinberg <br />
<br />
Oh how true this is. Life can be hard at times but it is possible to celebrate more, regret less, and stare down our greatest fears. Instead of cowering under adversity or curling up in defeat we can fight back with joy. <br />
<br />
Maybe you don’t know where to start. Margaret’s book is a perfect place to begin. I can't adequately put into words all that I've gleaned from this book. I was dying to get my hands on it and trust me when I say it did not disappoint.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sMDflC3b5Ow/VLbhkjWeGlI/AAAAAAAACX0/2HWXGLesuvs/s1600/9781617950896.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sMDflC3b5Ow/VLbhkjWeGlI/AAAAAAAACX0/2HWXGLesuvs/s1600/9781617950896.jpg" width="212" /></a><b><i><a href="http://mar.cta.gs/0bi" target="_blank">Fight Back With Joy</a> </i></b>will help you:<br />
<ul>
<li>Expand your joy threshold by awakening to God’s fierce love for you</li>
<li>Escape fear and regret by applying biblical strategies to whatever crisis you’re facing</li>
<li>Overcome depression as you reignite your imagination for laughter and celebration</li>
<li> Discover freedom from the past by learning how to turn mourning into joy</li>
<li>Rise above endless demands and become more winsome, cheerful, and thankful</li>
</ul>
No matter what your circumstances, you can practice defiant joy. When you do, you will embrace a life that’s richer and fuller than you’ve ever known before—a life radiant with joy.<br />
<br />
I recently shared an <a href="http://www.melindalancaster.com/2015/01/the-secret-to-living-defiant-joy.html" target="_blank">interview with Margaret Feinberg</a> along with a preview of the 6 Session DVD Bible Study which you'll want to check out. I also highly recommend that you pick up a copy of <a href="http://mar.cta.gs/0bi" target="_blank"><i><b>Fight Back With Joy</b></i></a> at <a href="http://mar.cta.gs/0bi" target="_blank">Amazon</a> or <a href="http://mar.cta.gs/0bh" target="_blank">Barnes and Noble</a> today. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-67452469457697261972015-01-14T14:30:00.000-08:002017-03-23T16:47:01.721-07:00The Secret To Living A Defiant Joy: A interview with Margaret Feinberg<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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One of my favorite authors, <a href="http://www.margaretfeinberg.com/" target="_blank">Margaret Feinberg</a>, has been through a brutal fight with cancer and shares the unexpected lessons she discovered along the way in her new book and Bible study <i><b><a href="http://mar.cta.gs/0bi" target="_blank">Fight Back With Joy</a></b></i>. <br />
<br />
It’s been inspiring to learn how Margaret has been practicing a defiant joy. The book is a phenomenal read and on my list of new favorites. I'll be sharing my review of the book and additional thoughts over the next few weeks.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, I thought you might like to get an insider’s look, so I am sharing an interview with Margaret and a sneak preview of the 6-Session DVD Bible Study.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KI7w49Y79-Q/VLbiSyxX4aI/AAAAAAAACX4/qwfjNHjn2Wg/s1600/margaret2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KI7w49Y79-Q/VLbiSyxX4aI/AAAAAAAACX4/qwfjNHjn2Wg/s1600/margaret2.jpg" width="181" /></a><b>Your newest book and Bible study, <i><a href="http://mar.cta.gs/0bi" target="_blank">Fight Back With Joy</a></i>, was born out of your fight with a life-threatening illness. What was your difficult diagnosis, and what has your journey to health entailed?</b><br />
<br />
For the last 18 months, I’ve been battling breast cancer. Breast cancer isn’t just one disease represents thousands of different diseases with their varying components and factors. Being diagnosed under the age of 40 is significant. I’ve been through a brutal year of chemotherapy, radiation, and more surgeries than I can count or want to remember. <br />
<br />
<b>Why did you write <a href="http://mar.cta.gs/0bi" target="_blank"><i>Fight Back With Joy</i></a>?</b><br />
<br />
I studied joy for a year and was putting the finishing touches on book on joy—just two weeks from turning it into the publisher, when I received the diagnosis. I had been pursuing and activating joy in my life in the relatively good times, now I had to do it in the midst of darkness, depression, and torturous pain. Through the process, I’ve discovered the breadth, depth, and power of joy—that despite hundreds of sermons and many decades in the church—no one had told me of before. <br />
<br />
<b>In the <a href="http://mar.cta.gs/0bi" target="_blank"><i>Fight Back With Joy</i></a> book and <a href="http://mar.cta.gs/0ar" target="_blank"><i>Bible study</i></a>, you really push the reader to reevaluate their definition of joy. Why do you think this is so important? </b><br />
<br />
Much of the teaching I’ve heard on joy over the years is oversimplified. I remember those days in Sunday school learning that JOY is spelled Jesus, Others, Yourself. While that made perfect sense at 9 years old, I’ve seen how distorted that can become as an adult. <br />
<br />
I see friends who love Jesus but spend so much time pouring into their kids, grandkids and others that their joy looks something like this: jOy.<br />
<br />
Technically, it still spells joy, but more than anything, these men and women who are so exhausted, so empty, so running on fumes from pouring into others need to pause and take time to focus on themselves. Laying hold of joy right now will require them to reevaluate for a season and discover the joy that comes with JYo. <br />
<br />
I also noticed how most of the definitions of joy define it more by what it isn’t than by what it is. I constantly heard that happiness is based on circumstance but joy is not dependent on circumstance. <br />
<br />
Biblical expressions of joy turn out to be far different than what I had been taught. I am now convinced the writers of the Bible would say that, the reason we have joy is because we have great circumstances. If you are a child of God, you are drenched in the grace and mercy of God. <br />
<br />
No matter what you’re facing: Your circumstances are better than you think. <br />
<br />
If you’re not experiencing joy, perhaps it’s because your definition of joy is too narrow. <br />
<br />
<b>On a scale of 1-10, how hard was it for you to write this book and Bible study? </b><br />
An eleven! This journey has been the most painful experience of my life. And, to share about it requires some vulnerability. Okay, a lot of vulnerability. And, that’s really, really hard. But I feel like I’m finally ready to share what God has stirred in my heart along the way because although cancer has been the most painful journey—it has also been the most joyful. And no one is more surprised than I am.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//player.vimeo.com/video/114263834" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe> <br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/114263834">Fight Back With Joy 6-Session DVD Bible Study Promo Video</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/mafeinberg">Margaret Feinberg</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
<br />
Pick up a copy of <a href="http://mar.cta.gs/0bi" target="_blank"><i><b>Fight Back With Joy</b></i></a> at <a href="http://mar.cta.gs/0bi" target="_blank">Amazon</a> or <a href="http://mar.cta.gs/0bh" target="_blank">Barnes and Noble</a> today. <br />
<br />
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<i><b>The book:</b></i> Parents of specials needs children are exhausted. They've done all the
research, consulted all the experts, joined support groups, gotten
counseling, fought for the best life for their children. Often just
caring for their children's needs and attempting to maintain a home
maxes out parents' mental, emotional, and spiritual reserves.<br />
<br />
Laurie
Wallin knows firsthand the difficulties of this journey. With <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Get-Your-Joy-Back-Resentment/dp/0825443393" target="_blank"><i><b>Get Your Joy Back</b></i></a>, she steps forward to make a bold, audacious claim: in the
midst of this long-term, intense task, it is still possible to have an
abundant life, full of joy. The key to radically changing daily life and
restoring joy to the weary is forgiveness. Wallin gives parents a
lifeline to find that restoration, pulling them back to shore when they
feel like they're drowning. <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
This book is full of practical,
biblical insights and strategies to shed the resentments that leave
Christian special-needs parents themselves spiritually, emotionally, and
socially drained. Wallin meets readers right where they are, sugar
coating nothing, but addressing issues with honesty, humor, and--above
all--hope.<br />
<br />
<i><b>The review: </b></i>First, let me begin by saying "wow, what a book!" I'm doubtful that there is anything like it out there which is why I immediately recommend that you either <a href="http://lauriewallin.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/ExcerptGetYourJoyBack-1.pdf" target="_blank">read a free excerpt</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Get-Your-Joy-Back-Resentment/dp/0825443393" target="_blank">purchase a copy</a>, (it's available in paperback & Kindle versions) and or read my review and decide.<br />
<br />
The choice is yours. <br />
<br />
There are many books on the market these days designed to help both
parents and professionals to better understand and deal with special
needs children.<br />
<br />
But what about the needs of the parents? They often go unacknowledged, unnoticed, and uncared for.<br />
<br />
That
is what makes <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Get-Your-Joy-Back-Resentment/dp/0825443393/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1421110548&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i><b>Get Your Joy Back: Banishing Resentment and Reclaiming Confidence in Your Special Needs Family</b></i></a> such a unique and valuable
tool. It is written especially for YOU--the parent of a special needs
child. It is about your struggles, needs, hurts, frustrations, and
disappointments.<br />
<br />
And very true to the title it is about getting
rid of the extra baggage that comes with the very challenging
assignment, that you face daily, to make room for more joy.<br />
<br />
As
the mom of four girls, two of them with mental and developmental special
needs, Laurie has her finger on the pulse of special needs parents. Her
training as a certified life coach enhances her ability to tackle
difficult subjects graciously. Her own experiences have allowed her an
insider's view on many of the struggles that are common among special
needs parents. She has also surveyed other parents dealing with special needs to glean from their stories. All of this has led to her being in many ways an "expert" on a subject that many have chosen to push aside altogether.<br />
<br />
Her thorough understanding of what special need parent's deal with physically, emotionally, and spiritually resonates clearly throughout the book. <br />
<br />
I feel that Laurie did a outstanding job of validating many
of the feelings that parents of special needs children typically deal
with but are often hesitant to admit. How did she do this? By sharing with humility and vulnerability her own experiences. (and some from the 70+ parents she surveyed)<br />
<br />
What I love is that she
doesn't stop there. She gives solid biblical counsel and just plain good advice for dealing with the feelings
and moving forward to a healthier place. These aren't abstract notions but ideas for concrete changes.(be sure and check out the trailer at the end of this review) <br />
<br />
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The author's writing
style is warm and caring. She doesn't sugar-coat things but has a way of allowing her grace and humor to shine through enough to make the tough stuff easier to take. It makes reading this book very much like
sitting next to a friend for a discussion.<br />
<br />
Since <b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Get-Your-Joy-Back-Resentment/dp/0825443393/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1421110548&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Get Your Joy Back</a></i></b> was written with
weary readers in mind it is important to note that even the weariest
reader won't feel taxed while reading.<br />
<br />
I found this to be a book that is full of encouragement. I also noted that it contains a lot of valuable information on places and ways to connect to find additional support. <br />
<br />
Laurie Wallin is not "that friend" who is jaded or
embittered by life's struggles but rather one who, despite dealing with tough situations
constantly, has found ways to reclaim something that each one of us
needs to survive in life--joy.<br />
<br />
I wanted to read this book because
I have family members and friends who are parents of kids with special
needs. It was my desire to better understand what they are going through
so that I can be a help and encouragement to them.<br />
<br />
I've got to tell you I learned so much from this book. Despite trying to be sensitive to what my family members and friends deal with on a regular basis I'll admit, I was fairly clueless. <br />
<br />
And even though
the target audience is specific I found that <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Get-Your-Joy-Back-Resentment/dp/0825443393/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1421110548&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i><b>Get Your Joy Back</b></i></a> also helped me in some
of my own personal struggles as a parent and just as a person in general. <br />
<br />
I highly recommend <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Get-Your-Joy-Back-Resentment/dp/0825443393/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1421110548&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i><b>Get Your Joy Back</b></i></a> for anyone who is dealing with parents of children with special
needs. If you are the parent of a child with special needs, I'd say this is a must-read book. If you their family member, friend,pastor, teacher, ministry
worker, or counselor I also believe it is equally important for you to pick up this book. I'm confident that no matter who you are you will benefit from the insight and information that Laurie Wallin brings to the table.<br />
<br />
I know that I have.<br />
<br />
You can download a free excerpt of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Get-Your-Joy-Back-Resentment/dp/0825443393" target="_blank"><i><b>Get Your Joy Back</b></i></a> <a href="http://lauriewallin.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/ExcerptGetYourJoyBack-1.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cFyO5kW3T3Q/UyEPzpe-j1I/AAAAAAAAB18/xQNJ3s34q-0/s1600/laurie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cFyO5kW3T3Q/UyEPzpe-j1I/AAAAAAAAB18/xQNJ3s34q-0/s1600/laurie.jpg" width="134" /></a><i><b>The author: </b></i>Laurie Wallin is a certified life coach with a passion to help others
get unstuck and have joy and confidence, right in the middle of life's
mess. As former science researcher and teacher, she loves to learn and
challenge how we think about life and the world, especially as it
pertains to how we view ourselves. As a speaker and author, Laurie
shares with humor, compassion, and honesty because she gets how hard it
is to love others, find balance, and pursue our dreams on a daily basis.
Laurie writes weekly for her own site <a href="http://lauriewallin.com/">LaurieWallin.com</a> and monthly at
<a href="http://specialneedsparenting.net/">SpecialNeedsParenting.ne</a><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/null">t</a>. She lives in Southern California with her
husband, children, and their cat that pilfers leftovers like a dog.<br />
<br />
<br />
[I was provided a free copy of this book. The choice to review it was solely mine.]<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-WUQ_Nfbxy8" width="480"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-50755270309334694652015-01-07T18:02:00.001-08:002015-01-07T18:16:26.667-08:00Gospel-Centered Counseling: A Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There comes a moment in every believer's life when someone that they care about approaches them in the midst of suffering and sorrow for advice. If you haven't experienced this yet, you will. <br />
<br />
Perhaps a "picture perfect" marriage is crumbling, they are dealing with a wayward teen, the company is downsizing and they're about to go under financially, or depression and anxiety is robbing them of sleep. Situations and circumstances vary but one truth is universal. We live in a fallen world--and sometimes it falls on us. <br />
<br />
Most of us know how to provide comfort at some level. We validate the pain, offer our prayers, give advice or exchange stories, and when all else fails we give hugs. Lots of hugs. <br />
<br />
But what about after the hug? <br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Bob Kellemen's latest book, which I would give ten stars if possible, addresses this issue in a way that no other book on biblical counseling has ever done before. At least not any that I've read, and there have been dozens. <br />
<br />
This book is written for anyone who wants to know what to do "after the hug." <br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors-ebook/dp/B00J1UJ8QW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420679181&sr=8-1&keywords=gospel+centered+counseling" target="_blank">Gospel-Centered Counseling</a></i>, which is book one in a two part series that will include <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Conversations-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors-ebook/dp/B00PFCPQ66/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420679470&sr=8-1&keywords=gospel+conversations" target="_blank">Gospel Conversations</a></i>, offers a "comprehensive and compassionate approach to one-another ministry--to using God's Word in your personal ministry to God's people." <br />
<br />
And yes, if you are a Christian than you have a ministry to God's people. <br />
<br />
The very first thing that this book does is shine a light on the very important realization that if you are a believer then you have the tools at your disposal to offer biblical counsel to other Christians. Some people don't know this. That includes people in the pulpit as well as the pew. Many aren't comfortable with the thought. Most struggle with what to do after the hug. <br />
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It's as if we've got this treasure chest sitting in front of us that holds the answers to life's questions and we are unsure if we should open the lid. <br />
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What I love about <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420679181&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>Gospel-Centered Counseling</i></a> is that not only does Bob Kellemen encourage readers to open the treasure chest, he helps them to carefully unpack many precious nuggets of truth. First they examine them as it relates to their lives. This is of vital importance because we first must be able to see and understand what we possess through Christ before adequately sharing it with others.<br />
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Then very systematically, the author begins sharing insight regarding how the treasure can help others. <br />
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I've had the pleasure of reading other books written by Bob Kellemen. His approach is one of wisdom and grace. Reading his work is very much like having deep and thoughtful conversations with a friend. I found this book to be warm and inviting even in light of the seriousness of the subject matter. <br />
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The author's years of experience and study have led him to conclude that there are Eight Ultimate Life Questions. They are universal to every person on the planet no matter their age, race, or social status. At some moment or another, often times while under duress, each one of us asks these questions: <br />
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1. “Where do we find wisdom for life in a broken world?” (The Word)<br />
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2. “What comes into our mind when we think about God?” “Whose view of God will we believe— Christ’s or Satan’s?” (The Trinity/Community)<br />
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3. “Whose are we?” “In what story do we find ourselves?” (Creation) <br />
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4. “What’s the root source of our problem?” “What went wrong?” (Fall) <br />
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5. “How does Christ bring us peace with God?” “How does Christ change people?” (Redemption) <br />
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6. “Where can we find a place to belong and become?” (Church) <br />
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7. “How does our future destiny with Christ make a difference in our lives today as saints who struggle against suffering and sin?” (Consummation) <br />
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8. “Why are we here?” “How do we become like Jesus?” How can our inner life increasingly reflect the inner life of Christ?” (Sanctification) <br />
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Perhaps we haven't phrased the questions exactly like this but we've asked them. "How do I handle my failing marriage?" "Why can't I kick this habit?" "If God loves me why do I hurt so bad?" All of these inquires are found within the author's Eight Ultimate Life Questions. <br />
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The great news is that for every single one of these questions there are answers in the Bible. <br />
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I felt that Bob did a brilliant job of addressing each one of these questions in a biblical manner. Using examples from "real life" situations that we all can relate to he also lays out a method for dealing with them. It isn't a quick 5 step program, or a "take two Scriptures and call me in a week" approach.<br />
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This book is about understanding the Bible's grand narrative and connecting it with wisdom to our daily lives not just on Sunday but every single hour and day of the week. That's something every believer needs help with. <br />
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It is obvious, that Bob has spent decades pondering what a "gospel-centered" counseling approach would look like and a great deal of time mapping it out in a way that anyone who picks up this book would benefit from. It isn't a weighty textbook but rather a manual of sorts that rolls out a very usable "model for biblical counseling built solely upon Christ's gospel of grace." <br />
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Here are the chapter titles: <br />
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1: Mining The Richness of God's Word: God's Treasures of Wisdom<br />
2: Discovering Wisdom for Life in a Broken World: Our Treasure Hunt for Wisdom<br />
3: Knowing the Creator of the Soul: Our Great Soul Physician<br />
4: Recognizing the Most Important Fact about Us: Our View of God<br />
5: Engaging the Battle for Our Soul: Our spiritual Warfare in Spiritual Friendship<br />
6: Examining the Spiritual Anatomy of the Soul: Our View of People<br />
7: Journeying into the Heart: Our Role as Soul Physicians and Biblical Cardiologists<br />
8. Exploring Serpentine Seduction to Sin: Our Spiritual Adultery<br />
9. Diagnosing the Fallen Condition of the Soul: Our Fallen Heart<br />
10. Applying the Gospel to Suffering: Our Gospel-Centered Self-Counsel<br />
11. Prescribing God's Cure for the Soul: Part 1--Our New Nurture<br />
12. Prescribing God's Cure for the Soul: Part 2--Our New Nature<br />
13. Finding a Place to Belong and Become: Our Growth in Grace is a Community Journey<br />
14. Remembering the Future: Our Eternal Perspective<br />
15. Dispensing Grace: Our Gospel-Centered Growth in Grace<br />
16. Putting Off and Putting On: God's Heart Change Model of Progressive Sanctification<br />
Conclusion: How Christ Changes Lives<br />
Bibliography: Works Cited And Consulted<br />
Author And Subject Index<br />
Scripture Index<br />
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It was very helpful that at the end of each chapter a tweet-sized summary was provided. I also found the "Where We've Been and Where We're Headed" section at the end of each chapter to be very beneficial for quick review. <br />
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This book is an excellent resource for anyone who would like to better help other Christians. It would be ideal as Christian education material. It is also the perfect tool for group studies.<br />
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I can't imagine anyone who picks this book up not benefiting from it in some way. It is packed full of life-changing truths that have the power to transform people's hearts and lives. <br />
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I can say this with confidence because this book has significantly impacted my life. Prior to reading it, I was planning to leave ministry altogether. That's a ridiculous notion, I realize. Every believer has a ministry. We don't just walk off the field when things get tough. However a series of difficulties, unlike anything I'd ever before experienced, left me feeling depleted and extremely discouraged. What once had been a passion for "coming alongside others" had all but disappeared. <br />
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While not easy to admit in the context of a review, I must say that this book was a god-send for me. Not only did it serve to remind me of Whose I am, it helped me to recall why I embarked on the mission of "helping people" in the first place. I found my hope being stirred while reading, over and over again.<br />
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Every believer needs sound biblical counsel. You will find it in this book. <br />
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There has been a disconnect between the pulpit and the pew for years. I've personally witnessed and experienced it. Many in the church are ill equipped to help people going through difficult times. This ought not be the case, but sadly it too often is. This is why we need people like Bob Kellemen to write the books that he does. And, this is why a book like <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420679181&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Gospel-Centered Counseling</a> </i>is something that we need to read, implement, and use to teach other believers to do the same. <br />
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I can't recommend <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1420679181&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>Gospel-Centered Counseling</i></a> highly enough. I am looking forward to it's companion <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Conversations-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors-ebook/dp/B00PFCPQ66/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1420682061&sr=1-7" target="_blank">Gospel Centered Conversations</a></i> as well.<br />
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For more information and to access the free resources available for this book you can check out my recent <a href="http://www.melindalancaster.com/2014/12/interview-with-bob-kellemen-on-gospel.html" target="_blank">interview with Bob Kellemen</a> or visit his <a href="http://www.rpmministries.org/writing/gospel-centered-counseling/" target="_blank">website</a>.<br />
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(My thanks for Zondervan for providing me with a copy of this book.) Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-37897745963930952462015-01-01T13:57:00.000-08:002017-03-23T16:49:23.759-07:00The blessing of getting stuck<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wn2MtUmbKq0/VKcUAS9jt4I/AAAAAAAACWA/yNiG0x95ZrE/s1600/Option%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wn2MtUmbKq0/VKcUAS9jt4I/AAAAAAAACWA/yNiG0x95ZrE/s1600/Option%2B4.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Initially I wasn't going to join.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accept the challenge by Jeff Goins to write 500 words a day in the month of January, yes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Add yet another Facebook group into the mix of my already cluttered life, no.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Getting stuck the first day changed my mind.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Meandering over to the link for the private group I found myself asking to join. My request was accepted immediately.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">A prompt was pinned at the top of the page.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">I'd never written using a prompt before. In fact, in recent years I rarely wrote at all. What once had been both enjoyable, and a huge part of what I felt called to do, had become a nearly impossible task.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Writing daily for a month now seemed like a pipe dream.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">But, apparently it was one that was shared by people from all over the world. People who just like me wanted to write, needed to pen words, but faced a battle that was all to familiar to me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">I so love to encourage people in battles.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">That probably explains why most of my initial interactions within the group were based on leaving comments on posts or blogs to cheer people on.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">I believe in other people.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">It has never been difficult for me to rejoice with others when they experience success or a breakthrough of some kind.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">I love to see dreams come true.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">What I'd not anticipated when joining the group was that I was not alone. There were many others who were very intent on offering encouragement, advice when asked, or an outstretched hand when someone fell of the "writing wagon."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">I'd never experienced this before.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Despite being a part of many large groups both online and offline (in real life) for the first time, not only did I give encouragement, I received encouragement in very generous amounts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">I completed the challenge and stayed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">By then it was obvious that there was a great deal to be learned from these more seasoned writers, publishers, teachers, literary geniuses, etc. Essentially everyone on the journey brought something unique and interesting to the table.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">I began to wonder what I might offer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">As time passed some of my interactions with people grew more lengthy and warm. There was also laughter and light-hardheartedness mixed in with a whole lot of hard work.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">I really needed the laughter.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many didn't know it but in addition to writing struggles our family was experiencing a very long intense personal battle. Most still don't know, and that's okay, because we're there to write.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Some days just breathing took effort.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is when the group which had once been about a mutual writing journey, with accountability, morphed into something much more for me. It became a haven against the onslaughts that threatened to take far more than my words.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lives hung in the balance daily.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Going to the group page provided opportunity to use my gifts. It also offered a safe place to share an occasion writing which I didn't feel safe posting on my blog. That would essentially be all of my recent writing. By this time it had also become a great gathering of acquaintances who were gradually becoming friends.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">I needed friends. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the late spring, a series of "unfortunate events" forced me into taking a break from social media altogether. Little did I realize, at the time, that I would be gone for nearly five months.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">I kept writing if only to stave off insanity. (whether successful or not is debatable)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">I missed the group severely but lacked the energy to participate. However, it wasn't long before a number of people made contact via email to check on me and to offer continued encouragement. Unable to go to the group, they had come to me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">There was no pressure to return.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Those who reached out just wanted to let me know that they cared and were available if needed. By this time, I cared about them, too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bonds had begun to form.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the late summer, with limited energy and resources, I returned to the group page and was treated as though I'd never missed a day. It was good to catch up with everyone and be a part again. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">By this time the group had exploded.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">I had no trouble understanding why. Given the environment which was non-judgmental, free of competition, gracious, and helpful it's a wonder that everyone in the world didn't join.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is why I'm still there.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yes, imagine that. One year later I still belong to a group that I didn't plan to join. When I did my intention was only to stay 31 days. It was the place where I'd decided I would fail, before ever starting, thus proving to myself that I was no longer a writer. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">I arrived lonely and disheartened. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">My what a difference a year of writing and hanging around other who are writing has made. I am now in a circle of friends who I never planned to have. We're writers who laugh together, cry together, pray together, and listen intently for the muse. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">We also fight off the dragons of distraction, discouragement and despair never afraid to point out a stick, lend a sword, or jump in to offer reinforcement when necessary.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">So much has changed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Just yesterday I had a conversation with one of my friends, who is also in the group. She helped me to clarify some of my writing goals for 2015. Yes, I actually have some! What a delightful surprise. She also opened some new lines of thought regarding my struggles with sharing and possible ways to overcome it.</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I started with</span><a href="http://www.melindalancaster.com/2014/02/all-i-have-is-whisper.html" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.15; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">only a whisper</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now, I'm dreaming and scheming about ways to use my words to leave a mark during my time on planet earth. Finding ways to slay the dragon of fear and share again. And I am not the only one making plans. There is a host of wonderful people, some who have become good friends, continuing on with this writing adventure. </span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">All because of</span><a href="http://goinswriter.com/my500words/" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.15; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 15px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My 500 Words</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">This post was a part of a blog hop. You might want to check out the posts of some of my other writer friends: </span></div>
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<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="line-height: 24px; white-space: normal;">Roslynn Pryor’s </span><a href="http://pushingthebruise.com/2014/12/31/my-500-words-end-of-year-experience-a-bloghop-post/" style="border: 0px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal;">Pushing the Bruise</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="line-height: 24px; white-space: normal;">Linzé Brandon’s </span><a href="http://linzebrandon.blogspot.com/2014/12/how-31-day-challenge-turned-into-365.html" style="border: 0px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal;">Butterfly on a Broomstick</a></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="line-height: 24px; white-space: normal;">Amy Bovaird’s </span><a href="http://amybovaird.com/year-shared-vision-writers-journey/" target="_blank">Amy’s Adventures</a></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 24px;">Crystal Thieringer’s </span><a href="http://crystalthieringer.com/500-words-repeat-daily/" style="border: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Muse and Meander</a><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 24px;">Tonia Hurst’s </span><a href="https://antoniaahurst.wordpress.com/2015/01/01/between-a-rock-and-a-hard-place/" style="border: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Vast and Inscrutable Imponderabilities of Life</a><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 24px;">Carryl A Robinson’s </span><a href="https://carrylrobinson.wordpress.com/2014/12/31/a-year-with-my-500-words/" style="border: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Echoes from the Cave</a><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 24px;">Debbie Simorte’s </span><span style="border: 0px; color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://writerup.blogspot.com/" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Writing the Life Chaotic</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #2c3e50; line-height: 24px;">Stella Myers’ </span><a href="http://www.stellasstarshine.blogspot.com/2015/01/500-words-day-365-days.html" target="_blank">Stella’s Starshine</a></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-74916205990816585572014-12-03T20:01:00.000-08:002014-12-03T20:12:42.239-08:00Interview with Bob Kellemen on Gospel-Centered Counseling Several years ago, after finishing my doctoral studies, I went through the process of becoming certified as a biblical counselor. Along the way, I've met some very knowledgeable people with loads of experience.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-89T13YF26iQ/VH_dqmlohsI/AAAAAAAACUw/Cn1pA7ZNUwY/s1600/bobk2.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-89T13YF26iQ/VH_dqmlohsI/AAAAAAAACUw/Cn1pA7ZNUwY/s1600/bobk2.bmp" height="200" width="165" /></a></div>
One of the people who I have learned tons from is Dr. Bob Kellemen. Bob is the Executive Director of the <a href="http://biblicalcounselingcoalition.org/" target="_blank">Biblical Counseling Coalition</a>, the Vice President for Institutional Development and Chair of the Biblical Counseling Department at <a href="http://crossroads.edu/" target="_blank">Crossroads Bible College</a>, and the Founder and CEO of <a href="http://www.rpmministries.org/" target="_blank">RPM Ministries</a>.<br />
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Obviously Bob stays pretty busy. And that's only a partial bio. I'll share the rest when I post my review of the book. <br />
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For seventeen years he served as the founding Chairman of and Professor in the MA in Christian Counseling and Discipleship department at Capital Bible Seminary in Lanham, MD. Bob has, also, pastored three churches and equipped many biblical counselors along the way. <br />
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Additionally, he has written over a dozen books, most of which I have read, including his latest book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1417661553&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i><b>Gospel-Centered Counseling: How Christ Changes Lives</b></i></a>.<br />
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I'll let Bob tell you more about his latest published work by answering a few questions...<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FOoIfzi2Tps/VH_YEA_ajFI/AAAAAAAACUY/9-tjYxI2aWM/s1600/gccounseling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FOoIfzi2Tps/VH_YEA_ajFI/AAAAAAAACUY/9-tjYxI2aWM/s1600/gccounseling.jpg" height="200" width="154" /></a><br />
<b>Bob, who would you say your primary audience is for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1417661553&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>Gospel-Centered Counseling</i></a>?</b><br />
BK: I wrote <i><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1417661553&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Gospel-Centered Counseling: How Christ Changes Lives</a> </b></i>for the local church. As I wrote, I kept seeing lay people with hurting friends in a Starbucks and wondering how the gospel helps. I kept envisioning a lay biblical counselor seeking wisdom to help someone caught in a besetting sin. And I kept thinking about the pastor in his office needing biblical guidance to relate God’s truth to people’s lives. So, I wrote <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1417661553&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i><b>Gospel-Centered Counseling</b></i></a> for every person who longs to see lives changed with Christ’s changeless truth, for everyone who wants to speak the truth in love.<br />
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<b>What is the main purpose of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1417661553&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>Gospel-Centered Counseling</i></a>?</b><br />
BK: For the past three decades, I have been pursuing one foundational question that I believe every biblical counselor must answer: What would a model of biblical counseling look like that was built solely upon Christ’s gospel of grace? Thus the title: Gospel-‐Centered Counseling. What difference does the gospel make in how we counsel one another? What difference does the gospel make in our daily lives? To answer those questions, throughout <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1417661553&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i><b>Gospel-Centered Counseling</b></i></a>, I address 8 ultimate life questions. I build these questions on Christ’s gospel victory narrative.<br />
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<b>Sounds fascinating. So, what are these 8 ultimate life questions from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1417661553&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>Gospel-Centered Counseling</i></a>?</b><br />
BK: The questions follow the traditional Creation/Fall/Redemption model, but they expand that concept to address a comprehensive biblical theology of biblical counseling. Here’s how I organize life’s 8 ultimate questions in Gospel-‐Centered Counseling.<br />
1. The Word: Where do we find wisdom for life in a broken world?<br />
2. The Trinity/Community: What comes into our mind when we think about God? Whose view of God will we believe—Christ’s or Satan’s?<br />
3. Creation: Whose are we? In what story do we find ourselves?<br />
4. Fall: What’s the root source of our problem? What went wrong?<br />
5. Redemption: How does Christ bring us peace with God? How does Christ change people?<br />
6. Church: Where can we find a place to belong and become?<br />
7. Consummation: How does our future destiny with Christ make a difference in our lives today as saints who struggle against suffering and sin?<br />
8. Sanctification: Why are we here? How do we become like Jesus? How can our inner life increasingly reflect the inner life of Christ?”<br />
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<b>So it sounds like <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1417661553&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Gospel-Centered Counseling</a> </i>provides a theological foundation for counseling. Is that right?</b><br />
BK: Yes—especially when we understand that theology matters. Theology is for life. Everyone wants to know what makes biblical counseling truly biblical. I believe that counsel is biblical when we build our understanding of God, life, people, problems, and solutions on Christ’s gospel of grace.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1417661553&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i><b>Gospel-Centered Counseling</b></i></a> shows how robust, relevant, and relational God’s Word is for our daily lives. It is a theological primer, a gospel primer, that shows us how Christ changes lives.<br />
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<b>That last phrase reminds us of your subtitle, which is so vital: How Christ Changes Lives. Tell us more about the importance of the subtitle.</b><br />
BK: In our biblical counseling world we often talk about how people change. I have used that language and I will continue to use that language. However, the subtitle tweaks that in a significant way—it is Christ’s gospel of grace that changes us. We are forgiven by grace and we are changed by grace—made new creations in Christ. And we keep growing in grace—sanctification grace. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1417661553&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i><b>Gospel-Centered Counseling</b></i> </a>seeks to help counselors to unite the truths that: 1) we are already changed, 2) we grow by grace, and 3) we have a role to play. We respond to grace in the Spirit’s power by putting off the old person we once were and putting on the new person we now are in Christ.<br />
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<b>You have a free discussion guide available also, is that right?</b><br />
BK: Yes, it is. Anyone who orders a copy of <a href="http://www.rpmministries.org/2013/05/gospel-centered-counseling/" target="_blank"><i><b>Gospel-Centered Counseling</b></i></a> at my <a href="http://www.rpmministries.org/store/" target="_blank">RPM Store</a> will receive a free 55-page discussion guide. For each chapter there are discussion/interaction questions that help readers to apply gospel truth to their own lives. And there are discussion/interaction questions that also help readers to apply gospel truth to their biblical counseling ministry.<br />
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<b>Bob, we understand that <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1417661553&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>Gospel-Centered Counseling</i></a> is part of a two-‐book series published by Zondervan. Tell us more.</b><br />
BK: Yes, the second book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Conversations-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516153/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1417662172&sr=8-4" target="_blank"><i><b>Gospel Conversations: How to Care Like Christ</b></i></a>, will be released by Zondervan in 2015. Together, these two books form the Equipping Biblical Counselors Series. I wanted a two-‐book set that churches (and schools) could use seamlessly to equip their people. Book one, as I mentioned, is a theological primer for relating the gospel for life. Book two, <i><b>Gospel Conversations</b></i>, is a methodology primer—providing the “how to” of the art of biblical counseling. I’ve written book two in a lab/small group training manual format. It walks readers through how to further develop 21 biblical counseling skills—I call them “relational competencies” so that we learn to speak the truth in love.<br />
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<b>How can people learn more about <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=sr_1_1_twi_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1417665248&sr=1-1" target="_blank"><i>Gospel-Centered Counseling</i></a>?</b><br />
BK: On my RPM Ministries site, people can visit my <a href="http://www.rpmministries.org/writing/gospel-centered-counseling/" target="_blank">Gospel-‐Centered Counseling Page</a>. They’ll find a free copy of the Foreword and Introduction, along with tweet-‐size summaries of every chapter, in addition to other free resources.<br />
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You'll want to check out all of the free resources available for download on the <a href="http://www.rpmministries.org/" target="_blank">RPM Ministries</a> site and pick up a copy of the book <a href="http://www.rpmministries.org/store/" target="_blank">there</a> (don't forget the freebies) or on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Centered-Counseling-Equipping-Biblical-Counselors/dp/0310516137/ref=sr_1_1_twi_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1417665248&sr=1-1">Amazon.com</a>.<br />
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<i><b>Gospel-Centered Counseling: How Christ Changes Lives</b></i><br />
by Robert W. Kellemen Foreword by Deepak Reju <br />
Softcover: 320 pages, $18.99<br />
ePub: $14.99Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-15833839529920170692014-10-31T16:51:00.004-07:002017-03-23T16:50:53.833-07:00Breathing On Her Own: A Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aPCUYLMANRE/VFQfaTUbVCI/AAAAAAAACTo/Au6LVdE--RU/s1600/breathing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aPCUYLMANRE/VFQfaTUbVCI/AAAAAAAACTo/Au6LVdE--RU/s1600/breathing.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
<i><b>The book:</b></i><br />
Molly Tipton and her husband are looking forward to retirement, but Molly’s life suddenly spirals out of control when her oldest daughter is involved in a terrible accident. An icy road and a sharp turn leave one woman dead, another clinging to life.<br />
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While two families grieve, details emerge that reveal Molly’s daughter was driving under the influence. As she prepares her daughter for the prospect of a vehicular homicide lawsuit, Molly discovers her oldest child is not the only one injured and forced to deal with past mistakes. If it’s true that time heals all wounds, what are we to do with our scars?<br />
<i><b>The review:</b></i><br />
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To be honest, because this was the author's debut novel, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Would it be slow moving? Will the plot be believable? Will it keep my attention? </div>
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I must say <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Breathing-Her-Own-heals-wounds-ebook/dp/B00J7XPGSC/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top" target="_blank"><i><b>Breathing on Her Own</b></i></a> far
exceeded my expectations. And if I wasn't armed with the knowledge that
this is Rebecca's first novel, I would never believe it. She has
mastered the art of writing fiction very quickly.<br />
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The storyline is very realistic. People face these types of situations each and every day. I've faced some of them myself. There's a good chance that you have, too. And if not, you know someone who has. <br />
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It
took a chapter or two to fully draw me in. After that, I was up late
reading the rest of the book. It really grabbed my heart. It also
touched wounded places in my spirit and rubbed a few scars. </div>
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Although we read books for enjoyment and also to pass time some books do far more. This is one of those stories that has depth. It causes reflection and pondering. I'm a big fan of that. <br />
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Rebecca
did a masterful job of weaving the tale. She developed the characters
enough to bring them to life and shared enough detail to bring the
reader in close without being wordy or boring.<br />
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One of the things
that stood out to me were the private thoughts of Molly Tipton. Oh how I
could relate to her struggles of faith and just life in general. I really liked how the author included them as a secondary narrative in the background. <br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Breathing-Her-Own-heals-wounds-ebook/dp/B00J7XPGSC/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top" target="_blank"><i><b>Breathing on Her Own</b></i></a> is one of my favorite fiction reads for this year so far. I highly
recommend it for individuals who enjoy fiction and also to those looking for books to be discussed in club or group type settings. <br />
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I'm very much looking forward to hearing more from Rebecca Waters in the coming days.<br />
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<i><b>The author: </b></i><br />
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<i><b><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xmckFr3OPVE/VFQgAXgqukI/AAAAAAAACT0/W1CzqKqeowU/s1600/becky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xmckFr3OPVE/VFQgAXgqukI/AAAAAAAACT0/W1CzqKqeowU/s1600/becky.jpg" width="160" /></a></b></i></div>
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</b></i></div>
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Rebecca Waters draws on her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother
as well as her vast experience as an educator and researcher for her
writing.<br />
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Rebecca sees writing as both a gift and a ministry.
Although she has published in professional journals in the field of
education, Rebecca now turns her pen to the world of fiction.<br />
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She has published in Chicken Soup for the Soul, The Lookout Magazine, and Home Health Aide Digest. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/1941103154/" target="_blank"><i><b>Breathing on Her Own</b></i></a> is her debut novel.<br />
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You can connect with Rebecca in the following places:<br />
<a href="http://rebeccaawaters.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Website/Blog</a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/?q=#/RebeccaWatersAuthor?ref=br_tf" target="_blank">Facebook </a><br />
<i><b></b></i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-75209153388866340882014-10-14T15:14:00.002-07:002014-10-14T15:16:52.725-07:00Hidden Blessings: A Review<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rBIPBAdSWc8/VD2aiOXnxkI/AAAAAAAACS8/y9JPZGi-jzQ/s1600/hidden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rBIPBAdSWc8/VD2aiOXnxkI/AAAAAAAACS8/y9JPZGi-jzQ/s1600/hidden.jpg" height="200" width="131" /></a><b><i>The book: </i></b><br />
Diagnosis: breast cancer. Prognosis: terminal. Life: only beginning. <br />
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Her diamond caught the sun's rays and refracted glittered light about the room. She'd asked herself again and again: How could she be so blessed? Partner at a prestigious law firm, engaged to the man of her dreams . . . there was no doubt. God had smiled on Kendra Woods.<br />
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But the moment Kendra is diagnosed with terminal breast cancer, her world collapses. Within days, Derek backs out of the wedding and the firm suggests a leave of absence during her treatment. Of all the roles Kendra has played over the years—daughter, sister, friend, student, attorney, bride-to-be—cancer patient seems the most unwelcome in the world.<br />
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When her path crosses with youth pastor Lance Alexander, Kendra sees only the troublemaker she knew in high school. But Lance could prove an unexpected spark. In the darkness that covers her, will Kendra be able to embrace a glimmer of hope?<br />
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<i><b>The review: </b></i>First let me begin with a confession. I almost didn't read this book. Yes, you read it right. When I heard the synopsis my mind shutdown instantly. I wasn't certain I would be able to emotionally digest this story.<br />
<br />
Yet something was calling me to it. Perhaps it was the fact that I know this author and follow her blog. In my heart I knew there was an important reason for her penning this novel. <br />
<br />
And then there's the title, right. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Blessings-Kim-Cash-Tate/dp/1595549994/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1413321605&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i><b>Hidden Blessings</b></i></a>. In the best of times blessings are pretty easy to identify but when trials come we can quickly become short-sighted. Knowing that my vision is a bit skewed at the moment, I decided to request an advanced review copy of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Blessings-Kim-Cash-Tate/dp/1595549994/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1413321605&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i><b>Hidden Blessings</b></i></a> out of sheer curiosity.<br />
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I'm so glad that I did.<br />
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Let me begin by saying that all of Kim's books are very plausible. They are set in modern times and written in a very casual style. There isn't a lot of fluff but that certainly makes them no less valuable. In fact it leaves more room for the many important nuggets of truth buried within as gifts to the reader.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Blessings-Kim-Cash-Tate/dp/1595549994/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1413321605&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i><b>Hidden Blessings</b></i></a> is no exception when it comes to treasure. I personally feel that the author has taken it "up a notch" with her latest book. It is packed full or realistic situations and spiritual truths. What depth for a fictional novel.<br />
<br />
I was truly blown away.<br />
<br />
Kim brings awareness to "inflammatory breast cancer" which I didn't even know existed. She paints a realistic picture of what it is like for someone who is young and successfully "living their dream" to experience a terminal diagnosis. She shows how grief and loss can impact lives in ways people never imagined.<br />
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Each one of her characters is so easy to relate to. You've encountered them one way or another in your daily walk whether you realize it or not.<br />
<br />
I will admit, the premise for this story could be depressing at first glance. A young woman diagnosed with terminal cancer gets dumped by her fiance, leaves her dream job, and returns home to come to grips with her illness.<br />
<br />
<b>May I offer a word of advice. DO NOT allow the description of this book to scare you away.</b><br />
<br />
There is so much more to the story. While I wouldn't dare give away the secrets and struggles of Kendra, Lance, Trey, and the other characters I will say that <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Blessings-Kim-Cash-Tate/dp/1595549994/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1413321605&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i><b>Hidden Blessings</b></i></a> is a beautiful story full of love, hope and redemption. Not just for one of the characters but for many of them.<br />
<br />
I was thoroughly engrossed in this book and stayed up late into the night to finish it. It was emotionally gripping. I found it impossible not to invest myself in the characters struggles and victories.<br />
<br />
I also found myself uncovering many hidden blessings in my own life. I can't thank Kim Cash Tate enough for her latest work. Beautifully written it has in undeniable ways positively altered my thinking. <br />
<br />
I highly recommend that you purchase this book. Plan on setting aside a block of time to read it because once you pick it up you'll have a very difficult time putting it down.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I33oafWcS-I/VD2dpyKMBUI/AAAAAAAACTE/AGHQx6E4qJQ/s1600/kim2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I33oafWcS-I/VD2dpyKMBUI/AAAAAAAACTE/AGHQx6E4qJQ/s1600/kim2.jpg" height="200" width="178" /></a><i><b>The author: </b></i>Kim Cash Tate<b> </b>is the author of <i>The Color of Hope</i>, <i>Hope Springs</i>, <i>Cherished, Faithful</i>, <i>Heavenly Places</i>,<i> </i>and the memoir <i>More Christian than African American. </i>A
former practicing attorney, she is also a Bible teacher and women's
ministry leader at The Gate Church in St. Louis. She and her husband
have two children.<br />
<br />
You can connect with Kim the following places: <br />
<a href="http://www.kimcashtate.com/" target="_blank">Website/Blog </a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kimcashtate" target="_blank">Facebook</a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/KimCashTate" target="_blank">Twitter </a><br />
<br />
(My thanks to <a href="http://netgalley.com/">Netgalley.com</a> for a copy of the manuscript)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-82880433361040622182014-10-01T15:31:00.001-07:002020-08-31T16:07:51.781-07:00Interview with Amy BovairdI've recently had the great joy of meeting new writers, both published and unpublished, through the <a href="http://goinswriter.com/my500words/" target="_blank">My 500 Words</a> group which I joined in January of this year. While my expectation goal was to use the group as a tool to rebuild a daily writing habit it has offered so much more. I have found the interaction there truly enjoyable and gained several new friendships. <br />
<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kBqsMFLiLEc/VCx4gPrib1I/AAAAAAAACSM/paPV91Gdpfc/s1600/AmyBovairdCover-222x300.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kBqsMFLiLEc/VCx4gPrib1I/AAAAAAAACSM/paPV91Gdpfc/s1600/AmyBovairdCover-222x300.jpg" width="148" /></a></div>
One friend, who I am getting to know better, with all of her spunk and good humor is author <a href="http://amybovaird.com/" target="_blank">Amy Bovaird</a>. We all have a story to tell and Amy's is extremely inspiring. Her memoir<b><i> <a href="http://amybovaird.com/mobility-matters/" target="_blank">Mobility Matters</a></i></b> is coming out in just a few days.<br />
<br />
Amy is, in her own words, a vision-challenged globetrotter. She's been to places that I have only dreamed of and has much to share from her experiences. I love her writing voice and the way it reflects her zest for life.<br />
<br />
You can currently you download the first chapter of <a href="http://amybovaird.com/mobility-matters/" target="_blank"><b><i>Mobility Matters</i></b></a> for free on her <a href="http://amybovaird.com/mobility-matters/" target="_blank">blog</a>. I highly recommend that you subscribe while you're at it. She is a delightful storyteller who is fun loving and adventurous. Not to mention the fact that you'll find her very encouraging.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dHE8bpWZFSQ/VCx_xFqrIcI/AAAAAAAACSg/Mmk37f9dJSY/s1600/Amy3-3%2Bcopy.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dHE8bpWZFSQ/VCx_xFqrIcI/AAAAAAAACSg/Mmk37f9dJSY/s1600/Amy3-3%2Bcopy.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
I recently interviewed Amy about her life as well as her upcoming book. Here's what she shared:<br />
<br />
<b>Could you share a little bit about yourself with my readers.</b><br />
Yes, certainly. I grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania where most people knew each other. I’m the third of four siblings, and with me back home, we all live in the same town where we grew up!<br />
<br />
<b>Why did you choose to teach overseas? </b><br />
I graduated with a new major: Teaching English as Foreign Language (TEFL). Back then, no one had heard of this, at least in Pennsylvania. Besides, I was drawn to missions. I thought teaching overseas would allow me to support myself and work in the mission field.<br />
<br />
<b>Where did you teach? </b><br />
In Latin America, the Far East and the Middle East over a twenty-five year period. I taught from pre-school to adult military, at language schools and at a women’s college. I loved my students and used to travel during our school breaks. I was so blessed!<br />
<br />
<b>What is the eye condition you deal with and how has it affected your life? </b><br />
It’s called Retinitis Pigmentosa, RP for short. Although it’s hereditary, no one in my family or any of my relatives has it. I’m like the Lone Ranger! It’s different for every one who has it but some common characteristics are night blindness, a continual narrowing of peripheral vision, which leads to tunnel vision and ultimately, blindness. I’ve been legally blind since 1988. For me, the progression of vision loss has been gradual, so it hasn’t affected me overnight. I lived it with it for years without telling anyone. People just thought I was air-headed and clumsy when I ran into things. Aside from that, I lived my life like anyone else.<br />
<br />
<b>At what point did your situation change?</b><br />
In 2006, my vision had deteriorated to the point I was stumbling and people thought I was drunk or on drugs, or something. I had returned to the United States and started noticing other problems connected to my hearing as well, especially over the phone. I still never talked about my RP. That year, I started two new teaching jobs. To maintain my jobs, I knew I had to get help. That’s when I discovered the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services and learned how to use a cane, and received hearing aids. I had 50% hearing loss at that point. My hearing loss is a condition that sometimes accompanies RP, and is marked with progressive hearing loss and ends in deafness.<br />
<br />
<b>Let’s talk about your book. What is the significance of your title? Is it a play on words? </b><br />
Yes, it plays on the concept that mobility is important, and it also focuses on all my mobility lesson—thus, the double meaning. <b><i>Mobility Matters</i></b> is all about how important it is to keep living life and being connected to others. I couldn’t do that without help in getting around. So, the book is about coming to terms with terminology like “blindness,” and “vision-impaired,” and using a cane.<br />
<br />
<b>Exactly how mobile are you now with your cane? Can you get everywhere you need to with it? </b><br />
I’m as mobile as I need to be at this point. I can get around well. That doesn’t include the occasional truck trying to back over me!<br />
<br />
<b>How do you let people who see you with your cane know that you are not 100% blind? Or do you just let them assume that you can't see anything? </b><br />
That is a great question! And one I grapple with often. I’m getting much better when it comes to talking about my vision loss. Sometimes people don’t understand why they see me running without a cane but walking down the street on the same day with one. They don’t understand how I can see my cell phone and read a book but I need a cane to walk across the street. They might even think I’m faking it, especially if I have a good vision day. People often say, “But you’re making eye contact with me. How can you be blind?” Sometimes I tell them and sometimes I let them think what they want.<br />
<br />
<b>Familiar places are probably easier to navigate? What about places where you've never been before?</b><br />
I can travel on public transport like planes and trains without too much difficulty. It’s always a little strange because this is when people assume I can’t see anything and want to do everything for me, including printing out my e-ticket and putting me in a wheelchair to make my next leg of the journey. It robbed me of my pride and made me actually feel more blind than I was. I can tell people now just what help I need. <br />
<br />
<b>What is the take-away value of your book? What do you want readers to remember? </b><br />
Really, it doesn’t matter what kind of problem you are struggling with, if you trust God to help you through the difficulties, you’ll get through it. He may not change your situation, but He will change you. Also, we need to have a good sense of humor to get through the mishaps, of which we all face. Those who don’t know much about vision-impairment will learn a lot about it through my experiences, and those who do know about it will be comforted that someone else is going through what they are. It’s dramatic, it’s funny, and it’s fast-paced. I want readers to look at blindness in a new way, without pity, instead, to view it as any other characteristic that a person has but not one that defines.<br />
<br />
Amy is one of those people who I have only met online but desire to meet in real life. For now, I am doing that through the pages of her memoir. I hope that you'll take the time to do the same. You can get more information and connect with Amy Bovaird in the following places:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://amybovaird.com/" target="_blank">Amy's Adventure's </a>(offical website)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://on.fb.me/1g1BhR4">Amy Bovaird, Author FB Page</a><br />
<br />
Amy's book will be released and available on Amazon.com on October 5th but don't forget to download the first chapter to free in the meantime <a href="http://amybovaird.com/mobility-matters/" target="_blank">here</a>. You won't regret it!<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border-color: initial; border-style: none; border-width: initial; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border-color: initial; border-style: none; border-width: initial; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border-color: initial; border-style: none; border-width: initial; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border-color: initial; border-style: none; border-width: initial; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-21968625709589832812014-09-22T16:41:00.000-07:002017-03-24T09:52:15.957-07:00Lessons I learned from dodge ball<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SPAIVp02gyA/VBi_l1pRKnI/AAAAAAAACRw/M8Jyc01RVSk/s1600/dodgeball.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="163" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SPAIVp02gyA/VBi_l1pRKnI/AAAAAAAACRw/M8Jyc01RVSk/s1600/dodgeball.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My mind flashes back to gym class. I was probably about 8
years old. Two classmates had been chosen as captains. It was their job to pick
members for their teams.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The name of the game was dodge ball. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I recall the sense of dread that would come over me as one
by one they would call out names. It wasn't of importance to me what team I was
on. I had only one concern. "Please don't let me be last pick." </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I usually wasn't. But I was rarely first pick, either. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
This was in part due to
the fact that I wasn’t allowed to wear pants in elementary school. A little
girl in a dress isn’t as agile as the rest but I still managed to dodge the
ball well. So I typically got picked somewhere near the rear. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At least it wasn't dead last. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eventually I was allowed to wear shorts under my skirts on
physical education days. This made me a more desirable choice, not to mention the added bonus that kids could no longer look up my dress when we had to rope
climb. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was able to put more of myself into the game and take more
risks. This increased the likelihood of getting on a team faster and also gave
my ego a bit of a boost. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s the little things when you are small. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Third grade went by, fourth grade, fifth grade--by then I
was actually good not only at dodging balls but at most things related to
sports. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By sixth grade I had "arrived." Well, nearly. I
was a top pick for almost anything team related. Although never the captain I
no longer lived in fear of being chosen last and the humiliation that
accompanied it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But that changed one fateful day. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It's interesting how certain memories are etched in the
mind. Some experiences are burned into our brain like a brand of some kind. The
fine details have blurred a bit with time but overall I have a strong
recollection. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our class had recess in the gym. I don't recall if the
weather was inclement or this was our teacher's choice. What I do remember is that we were playing dodge ball and I was all in. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You see, I had something up my sleeve. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My sixth grade teacher had three pet students. This was
obvious to everyone. Somehow it had become my goal to become the fourth. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Slowly I'd been inching my way toward this objective. I was
being called on more often. I’d been left in charge for a brief moment--once or
twice. My reputation was about to be elevated to an unforgettable level of
importance. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How could I not be stoked?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everyone has the desire to be chosen. We want to be
remembered for being good at something. We enjoy being elevated and adored by our peers or deemed special by others.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I wanted all of this and did all that I could to reach the
invisible bar which would allow me to rise to the top like the cream of the
crop which I so desired to be. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With new found confidence I approached an afternoon game of
dodge ball with more zeal than ever before.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As team member and opponents
toppled one after another, I managed to remain safe. In fact, when it all
boiled down to the nitty-gritty it was one-on-one. All that remained was me and
the vicious opponent staring me down. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Resolving to win, I hurled the ball as hard as I could.
Dodging it was much more difficult without others to hide behind. The game went
on and on. Sweat was flying as we both defended our positions.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then it happened. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I was running backwards to prevent being hit with the
ball I ran smack into the teacher who, for reasons I'll never understand,
decided to step out onto the court unannounced. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I managed to escape being hit but not without trampling forcefully
on my teacher's foot. Of course this was not done intentionally. Without eyes
in the back of my head, I had no way of knowing she was behind me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Her screech followed by a hard yank, which left my arm
throbbing, ended the game that day. "As far as I'm concerned, you just
lost young lady." I can still hear the anger in her voice and recall the
strange sensation of color and heat rising fast up my cheeks. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She was in pain and I was deeply embarrassed. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Needless to say I lost my place in the running for
"teacher's pet" that day. I have a feeling that she was angry with me
long after the bruises healed. They were pretty significant. The next day she
was sure to call me to the front of the class to show me the damage that I'd
done to her foot. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I genuinely felt bad both for her and for me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the end I'd gotten what I wanted. It was something to be
remembered for with an accompanying reputation, elevated status and plenty of
attention. I was taunted for the rest of the school year for nearly breaking
the teacher's foot. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, the clumsy ox. I was now "that girl." </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That pretty much ended my desire to get ahead of others in
life. Or perhaps I should say any compulsion to climb the ladder at other
people's expense. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I learned that what goes up must come down. It is easier to
take those tumbles without everyone's eyes locked on you.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also discovered
that people are very fickle. You are at the top of their list one day and off the
paper the next. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mostly I realized that there is something about trying to schmooze
my way to a place of elevation that is just not natural to me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Who knew that a game of dodge ball could teach so much?</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-52326035169999074772014-04-02T20:55:00.002-07:002017-03-29T15:06:39.685-07:00Changing the tape<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
We were in Charleston, WV with an itinerant preacher and his team. It was rare for us to accept invitations to travel but since we'd planned to slip over to another area of the state to spend Thanksgiving with my grandparents the timing of it all couldn't have been better.<br />
<br />
Most of us didn't know each other well. Many in the group had never met before. We spent the early afternoon having lunch and getting better acquainted. The wonderful mix of temperaments made the meal a very entertaining experience. More then once I nearly spewed hot chocolate through my nose listening to the humorous stories being shared.<br />
<br />
What a fun bunch.<br />
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But it was all business during the services. The speaker was well received and each night many people came forward for prayer. I was one of many who ministered and prayed with them.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s-uaFv8C1Kk/UzzPw3lxMFI/AAAAAAAAB3I/5kuTTP-GT2s/s1600/freeimage-5685256-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s-uaFv8C1Kk/UzzPw3lxMFI/AAAAAAAAB3I/5kuTTP-GT2s/s1600/freeimage-5685256-web.jpg" width="200" /></a>On the second evening, in the middle of praying, I felt someone grab my arm. I turned quickly to see the pastor of the church standing in front of me. In earnest he said <i>"it's time to change the tape." </i><br />
<br />
I looked behind me in confusion. Had I been assigned to the sound booth and misunderstood? There was music playing.<br />
<br />
Did I need to leave my post and go before an audio nightmare quenched the flow of what was happening in the service.<br />
<br />
What tape?<br />
<br />
I turned back around to the person who I'd been ministering to and attempted to continue where we'd left off. Within minutes the pastor was tugging at my sleeve emphatically again repeating <i>"Change the tape now!" </i><br />
<br />
By this time I felt thoroughly confused.<br />
<br />
We'd never had a conversation and I knew nothing about a tape. With great concern I finally asked <i>"what tape are you talking about?" </i><br />
<br />
<i>"The tape in your mind"</i> he replied.<br />
<br />
Oh, that tape.<br />
<br />
(For those of you who find this 80's lingo hard to understand he was referencing a cassette tape. If you were born post-cassette think of it as a playlist of your favorite tunes.)<br />
<br />
He went on to share in detail enough of the self-talk which continuously played in the recesses of my mind for me to wonder if he'd been a fly on the wall inside my head. A scary thought, for sure.<br />
<br />
By this time the person I had been praying with was listening to our exchange. I'd have felt embarrassed had I not been so stunned by his accuracy. This man did not know me. He and I had not engaged in prior conversation.<br />
<br />
Only God could have told him my thoughts.<br />
<br />
On the outside I appeared altogether. This took great energy and was part and parcel of my overly developed defense mechanism--perfectionism. I worked hard to project an air of confidence in order to hide the internal battle I constantly waged with words of self-criticism, self-defeat, and self-loathing.<br />
<br />
No matter what I did or how hard I tried. Regardless of what I had achieved or managed to fix I could not get away from the negative soundtrack on loop. Over and over again it played day and night in my head.<br />
<br />
It was all negative.<br />
<br />
We'd gone on the trip to see others lives transformed by the power of God. Little did I know that I would experience a change myself. Confronted with the truth regarding my "stinking thinking" I left pursuing a new mindset which was something that was long overdue.<br />
<br />
I needed a new tape to replace the old.<br />
<br />
It has been a process. Good music doesn't happen overnight. It takes time and dedication to the process. Practice and proper production. The same can be said for new mindsets.<br />
<br />
They require being intentional.<br />
<br />
I'm still mixing the new messages for my mind. For me it takes more than positive affirmations. After all, I've listened to the old tape for half a century. I know most of it by heart. The new tape requires fresh material.<br />
<br />
Truths to counter the lies.<br />
<br />
I find most of my inspiration in Scripture. The Bible has a lot to say about us. Who we belong to. How He feels about us. What is good and acceptable. How to improve ourselves in a way that adds eternal value. What I read there is nothing like the soundtrack that has played in my mind for so many years.<br />
<br />
They are polar opposites.<br />
<br />
I've always found it easier to show grace to others. It has never been hard to imagine that God loves people. I just had difficulty believing that He cared so deeply for me. But that is all changing as I work to create a new playlist.<br />
<br />
Perhaps you can relate and would like know where to begin. Philippians 4:8 is a good place to start. <i>"Brothers and sisters, continue to think about what is good and worthy of praise. Think about what is true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected." </i>(ERV)<br />
<br />
Change takes time, especially when it comes to negative patterns, but with God's help we can overcome these obstacles and realize the great things that He has in store for us. <br />
<br />
The best place to mix a new tape is in God's Word.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-82666069302097051502014-04-02T19:30:00.001-07:002017-03-23T16:52:52.234-07:00God Is Not Fair: A Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We all have them at one time or another. Whether they come, as unwelcome visitors, when trials or tragedy occur or as a result of watching someone else suffer---they are as common as "a cold."<br />
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In her latest book <b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/God-Is-Just-Not-Fair/dp/1594154945/ref=tmm_pap_title_0" target="_blank">God Is Just Not Fair</a></i></b> Jennifer Rothschild takes each of these questions apart and examines then in light of Scripture.<br />
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Who better to do so then someone who has asked them all herself.<br />
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Having lost her sight as a teenager, Jennifer has navigated the world blind for her entire adult life. And she does it with grace and dignity, I might add, not to mention while maintaining a sense of humor.<br />
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I've read all of her books because there is much to be gleaned from this woman's life.<br />
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This is by far the author's most candid work. It may very well be my favorite. I found myself laughing, crying, and praying as I read.<br />
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Jennifer's words provide incredible insight for those in the thralls of hardship. They also brings bountiful comfort and hope.<br />
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And who doesn't need hope?<br />
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There is not a person alive who in some way won't find themselves within the pages of this book.<br />
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It is not wrong to ask questions. In fact, it is right. How we process them and where we turn to for answers is what makes all of the difference. There are only two potentials when dealing with hardship: we get bitter, or we get better. Much of that depends upon the lens through which we choose to view life.<br />
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I'm so grateful that Jennifer Rothschild has chosen to view her hardship through the lens of faith.<br />
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Even in the darkest moments while suffering deep depression, due to chronic exhaustion and other physical changes, she continued to look to the right source for her answers. With more holes in her "blanket of faith" then she could possibly patch she allowed God to fill the missing pieces.<br />
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There is so much to be learned from her experiences as well as her teaching. I find myself re-reading portions of this book over and over again.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">God is just not fair. Sometimes that can be a very hard pill to swallow. Which is why you need to read this book. It is medicine for the soul...a real heart cure!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-56141728645049669002014-03-28T16:52:00.002-07:002014-10-14T14:55:14.944-07:00Why Your Weirdness is Wonderful-A Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Do you ever feel lost in the shuffle? If so, you're not alone.<br />
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In her new book <b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Why-Your-Weirdness-Wonderful-Strengths-ebook/dp/B00IBJP63I/ref=cm_rdp_product" target="_blank">Why Your Weirdness Is Wonderful</a></i></b> Laurie Wallin states <i>"In these busy days, spent vying with the seven billion people on earth for jobs, resources, real estate, and recognition, we can feel lost in the crowd, unimportant, isolated in the midst of the throng. In the building intensity of these times, we need to know that we still matter. </i><br />
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<i>That to someone, somewhere, we're not just known but loved intentionally, wholeheartedly, deeply. You know the way I'm talking about: the falling-in-love, time-stands-still, life-lives-in-his-smile, who-cares-if-he-chews-loudly-or-never-irons-his-shirts kind of love. Everyone wants to feel that kind of unconditional affection from someone."</i><br />
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I agree. We all want to feel unconditional affection from someone. And there is One who does love us that way.<br />
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<i>"You're living a love story like this today. And this book is in invitation to fall ever deeper in love. To see yourself and the people all around you in this bursting-at-the-seams planet with the same twinkle in your eyes as the One who designed you does. </i><br />
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<i>It's an invitation, a beckoning to discover the intrinsic worth woven into you, <b>quirks and all</b>. To learn to love the wonder in your divinely <b>designed weirdness</b>. As you do, you begin to accept the invitation to love the weirdos around you as well. We begin to live the Greatest Commandment and its runner-up (Matthew 22:37-40) with vigor as we learn to love God with all our hearts, minds, souls, and quirks and love others in their weirdness too." </i>Laurie Wallin<br />
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Quirks and all. Designed weirdness. That is where the struggle within began for me. I cringed while reading those words. Maybe you do, too. But it was a good thing for me as I have wrestled for years with issues that this book very aptly addresses.<br />
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<i>"What if who you are right now is exactly who God meant you to be? What if the weirdest, most annoying things about you exist on purpose--for a purpose--to bring life, joy, strength, and healing to this world?" </i>Laurie Wallin<br />
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Those two "what if" questions were what made me want to read this book. They continue to challenge me as I process it. <br />
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In a world where "change" is constant and "self-improvement" is highly acclaimed we are always being encouraged, maybe even pressured, to transform ourselves to fit into one mold or another.<br />
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Quirks or annoying behaviors? God forbid! We'll do anything to try to cover those up in an effort to become who we think or feel others would like us to be and maybe who we assume God wants us to be. Or at least we'll wear ourselves out trying.<br />
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Unless something like Laurie comes along to bring another perspective like this: <i>"That quirk you despise about yourself? It reflects something important about God's nature. At least, that's what it is intended to do." </i><br />
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I wish that I only had one quirk that I despised, but in truth, I have many. A short list would include:<br />
<ul>
<li>perfectionist</li>
<li>moody or oversensitive</li>
<li>indecisive</li>
<li>overly organized</li>
<li>talk too much</li>
<li>think too much</li>
</ul>
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All of these quirks when looked at from the dark side seem like hindrances of which to rid myself of permanently. They certainly don't seem like something to embrace and use for good. </div>
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Unless one holds them up and view them in a different light. </div>
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This is exactly what Laurie Wallin has done in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Why-Your-Weirdness-Wonderful-Strengths-ebook/dp/B00IBJP63I/ref=cm_rdp_product" target="_blank"><b><i>Why Your Weirdness is Wonderful</i></b>.</a> She has presented readers with another way of viewing their lives, personalities and quirks. One that allows us to stop lamenting our weakness and instead encourages us to allow God to use those tendencies on purpose.</div>
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This idea, that God uses our natural design, including our most frustrating behavior, for His purpose is something that many of us have never considered. But it is definitely something worth pondering AT LENGTH.<br />
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Trust me when I say that this book offers something for every reader. Do you wish you had "better" quirks? Have quirks that don't play together nicely? Or one that is too loud? Want to learn more about famous weirdos? Need to tame fear? Desire to find child-like wonder again? There are answers within the pages of this book.<br />
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In just the right amounts, Laurie uses scriptural examples, personal experiences, and the wealth of wisdom she has accumulated, as a life coach, speaker, wife & mom, to lead readers down a path toward embracing some of the very things that they have fought so hard against.<br />
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While reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Why-Your-Weirdness-Wonderful-Strengths-ebook/dp/B00IBJP63I/ref=cm_rdp_product" target="_blank">Why Your Weirdness is Wonderful</a> it often feels like sitting down with a loving and caring friend. One who is funny, intuitive and smart. All in all this makes for a wonderful journey albeit very challenging.<br />
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But, then again, who doesn't love a good challenge?<br />
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Here is another snippet from the journey. <i>"When God is in our tendency to over-think, over-analyze, over-plan, get too emotionally wrapped up in life, and constantly think about the future (or never think about it), God's strength shines brightest and purpose unfolds most clearly. The over-thinking becomes strategic planning. The worrier's tendency to stew over eventualities becomes prayer over possibilities. The chatty one becomes the connector in a group or the one who introduces souls to Christ. The one who doesn't much consider the future becomes the one who reveals to us worrywarts the joy and beauty of this moment. You see God doesn't want to work around you or your quirks. He wants to work through you--through them." </i>Laurie Wallin<br />
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Wow! What a refreshing thought. And one of many, I might add. I could share quotes for days as page after page of my copy of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Why-Your-Weirdness-Wonderful-Strengths-ebook/dp/B00IBJP63I/ref=cm_rdp_product" target="_blank">Why Your Weirdness is Wonderful</a> are highlighted. There is so much wisdom packed inside.<br />
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Don't let the cute little cover fool you. This book is going to take you deep into the recesses of your heart and mind asking questions you never thought of. It will provide answers you've missed along the way. It will, also, create some questions of its own which will lead to positive life changes should you be willing to embrace the possibilities. Changes that will make life more "wonder-full."<br />
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Why is this topic important?<br />
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<i>"Because if you and I don't live fully in our design--the design God says is made in His image--then part of His image isn't shining in this world. Your part. My part. Our neighbor's part. Nobody else can or will ever fill that gap.</i><br />
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<i>Every quirky part of us we hid or reject is one more piece of God's image we're missing in this world." </i>Laurie Wallin<br />
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I don't know about you, but I want to fully do my part to reflect God's image in this world. This book continues to challenge me long after having put it down. I believe it will do the same for you which is why I highly recommend you pick up a copy.<br />
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You can find more information about the book and how to get in touch with Laurie Wallin by <a href="http://www.melindalancaster.com/2014/03/why-your-weirdness-is-wonderful.html" target="_blank">reading the recent interview that I had with her</a>.<br />
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(I was provided with an e-copy of this book from Abingdon Press. My review was optional.)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-14910976137820891582014-03-12T19:20:00.000-07:002014-03-12T19:20:11.286-07:00Why Your Weirdness is Wonderful-An Interview with Laurie Wallin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>"What if the weirdest, most annoying things about you exist on purpose--for a purpose--to bring life, joy, strength, and healing to this world?"</i><i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>Laurie Wallin from <b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Why-Your-Weirdness-Wonderful-Strengths/dp/1426772009/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1394675212&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Why Your Weirdness is Wonderful</a></i></b><br />
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Did you flinch when you read the quote? Shake your head? Resist even considering the possibility? If so, you're not alone. So did I. The very idea that my quirks or annoying character traits might exist for a purpose was/is mind-boggling to me. And it appears that I'm not alone.<br />
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Many people, of both genders, find it difficult to embrace the notion that what they or others deem as "weird" could be even remotely "wonderful." </div>
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Which is why life-coach, speaker, author, wife, mom, <b><a href="http://lauriewallin.com/wordpress/" target="_blank">Laurie Wallin</a></b>, has written a book to address the subject. <b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Why-Your-Weirdness-Wonderful-Strengths/dp/1426772009/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1394675212&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Why Your Weirdness is Wonderful</a> </i></b>will be released on March 18th. (It can currently be pre-ordered in either the paperback or Kindle version on Amazon.com) </div>
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During a recent interview Laurie shared why she wrote this book which encourages women to view the quirky things they don’t always like about themselves as the way God designed them. Here’s what she had to say.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cFyO5kW3T3Q/UyEPzpe-j1I/AAAAAAAAB14/I7GwFHoIA2k/s1600/laurie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cFyO5kW3T3Q/UyEPzpe-j1I/AAAAAAAAB14/I7GwFHoIA2k/s1600/laurie.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laurie Wallin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Why do you think it's important for women to see their weirdness as wonderful?</b> </div>
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Women, in particular, have this fog of expectation clouding our view of ourselves and each other. The more I studied personal strengths, the more I noticed that 1) the things that annoy me in other people are them living their strengths and either me not appreciating them in the situation, or them not living them in a loving way; and 2) the things that annoyed me about myself suffered from the same two issues. </div>
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So I started asking myself "What strength is she trying to live right now?" when I sensed jealousy or frustration or judgment creeping up with a friend. You know what happened? Where I used to feel insecure, I started noticing a desire to see the good in others and celebrating---affirming---the God-glimpses I saw in them.</div>
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As a woman, to be able to feel secure in the face of others is a HUGE change to what we often experience. It makes us allies, supporters of each other, champions of what God's doing in each other's lives, instead of defenders of what we think is insufficient in ourselves. </div>
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<b>In the book you talk about the dark sides and positive sides of our quirks. Could you give a few examples for readers?</b> </div>
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As a Star Wars fan, I've always related to the whole Dark Side, Light Side (or, as I call it in the book, Life Side) idea. God invests tendencies in us, and we either love Him and others with them (reveal their Life Sides) or we live from fear (Dark Sides). </div>
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The most common struggle strengths I hear about from people are tendencies to overthink things, be too sensitive, worry too much, argue too much, or be controlling. There are a lot of possible strengths hiding in these Dark Sides, and maybe they come from different strengths in different situations. </div>
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For example, overthinking can be the Dark Side of being analytical, an achiever, someone who is contextual and sees connections between anything done or said now, and what it will effect. Being overly sensitive can be the Dark Side of empathetic, compassionate, or spiritually discerning individuals. Worrying too much is the fear-driven Dark Side of many prayer warriors I know. It's not an exact science, but the important thing is to allow the question---to stop fighting who we are long enough to let God show us what is possible in us right then.</div>
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<b>How can women embrace their weirdness? Where should they start? </b></div>
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First, we have to decide to suspend judgment about our natural tendencies. This one trips a lot of people up. They're scared that if they do that, they're dropping their moral standards. But that's not what I'm saying. I'm asking people to stop assuming they understand God's design in the ways they've always thought, acted and reacted in life. His thoughts are higher than ours, after all, right? </div>
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So step one is to notice when we're making ourselves feel bad about some way we are, like when we use negative words to describe ourselves (overthinker, worry wart, impatient, lazy. . .) and stop right then to chat with God about it. To say, "What natural desire or strength of mine is wanting to come out right now? How would YOU reveal that trait, God?" Then, let God tell you what He thinks. And keep eyes open to see His answers to the questions unfold in life and relationships.</div>
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<b>How do you suggest women maximize their quirks to build God's kingdom? </b></div>
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The more we listen to what God meant when He designed us the way He did---quirks and all---the more we let God reveal His heart for the world around us. The more we're attuned to the unique ways God designed us to think, communicate, plan, care and relate with others, the more people are drawn to Him, and the kingdom grows. </div>
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<b>How can they maintain a balanced perspective about quirks and weirdnesses? </b>Our weirdness---our blend of strengths and their quirky upside down versions---stays balanced when we focus it on loving God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and loving other people as ourselves. The Greatest Commandment is our great balancer in this tightrope walk of living our weirdness wonderfully.</div>
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<b>Where can people connect with you and buy your book?<i> </i></b>Come visit me and check out more about the book at <a href="http://bit.ly/WeirdWonderful">http://bit.ly/WeirdWonderful</a>, or stop by my Facebook page at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/LivingPowerLifeCoaching">http://www.facebook.com/LivingPowerLifeCoaching</a></div>
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<b>Anything else you'd like to mention? </b></div>
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I certainly hope you'll grab a copy of my book and allow me to walk this road with you, but whether you buy my book or not, you owe it to yourself (and your spouse, kids, friends and community!) to learn more about your strengths. Whether it's Gallup's StrengthsFinder program, the Myers-Briggs assessment, or Gary Chapman's Love Languages assessment. . . find out who God designed when He made you. <b>Because if you're not being all God designed you to be, there's a hole in the world---a missing piece in our view of God's nature---that nobody else can or will ever fill.</b><br />
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Yes, I highlighted that last sentence for a reason. Read it slowly and ponder it. It is the very reason why her book is worthy of our time and consideration. Her insights will challenge your thinking and provide "a better way."<br />
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I will be posting my review of <b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1426772009/ref=s9_simh_gw_p14_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0HNYREF508DANDDQHKWH&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1688200382&pf_rd_i=507846" target="_blank">Why Your Weirdness is Wonderful</a></i></b> in the next week or two. In the meantime, I highly recommend that you, go over to Amazon.com and pre-order a copy. It is excellent for personal study and would also be great for book clubs or small groups. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-11626397808460749522014-03-09T22:34:00.001-07:002017-03-26T14:29:28.745-07:00Why I Hate The Word Heretic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There was a time when I rarely saw or heard the word. When it was used it usually accompanied the story of a person being imprisoned, burned at the stake, or otherwise punished.<br />
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Recently I've heard it with such increased frequency that I've come to hate it. What word am I speaking of, you might ask?<br />
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<b>Heretic</b>.<br />
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Webster defines a heretic as: <i>a dissenter from established religious dogma. Related words include disbeliever, apostate, defector, and infidel.</i><br />
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Those who garnished such a label were guilty of leading a movement away from sound truths. Many times they were killed in an effort to snuff out their teachings or leadership lest others be equally affected and "go by the wayside" too.<br />
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To be called a heretic was in some ways to be accused of committing a crime. It was not a term thrown around loosely. People who made accusations were very serious about individuals being punished, at the very least, if not silenced.<br />
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Just ask Jesus.<br />
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The word heretic is found one time in the Bible. (<a href="http://www.godvine.com/bible/titus/3-10" target="_blank">see Titus 3:10 and the notes that accompany it</a>) It wasn't used during Jesus' times but it isn't hard to see by the way that the Pharisees and scribes reacted to His teachings that they felt he was guilty of heresy.<br />
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As experts in the letter of the law they were the most learned people of their time. If anyone should know what God said and how it should be interpreted it was them.<br />
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Yet so enlightened where they that, aside from attempting to finding ways to trap him in His words, they paid no heed to His teaching.<br />
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And He was God.<br />
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In the end they didn't only deem Him to be a heretic. They claimed He was a blasphemer. This would be the thing that "sealed His fate." Or so they thought. His fate was determined before His feet every touched the earth.<br />
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Something they'd also read and studied.<br />
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Despite their expertise they failed to recognize that the very One who had been prophesied about in the book of Isaiah was standing in front of them.<br />
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Experts don't know everything.<br />
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I suppose it is hard to see when your ways of thinking and doing things is being refuted. The "cloak of religion" seems to bring with it an attitude of "I have all the answers."<br />
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Traditions and rules make good blinders for us all.<br />
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It frustrates me to discover the word heretic being thrown around so often in our society. Most often it is used to denote a person whose theology or thinking doesn't line up with someone else's.<br />
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Interestingly enough the early Christians didn't always see eye to eye. They didn't agree instantly on matters of doctrine. Sometimes they parted ways. I think of Paul sending Timothy away.<br />
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Later he asked that he be sent back to him.<br />
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Yet, not once did they ever refer to another believer as a heretic. Why? Because it is not a word to be thrown around loosely. It is hurtful. Damaging. A serious offense.<br />
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The word heretic should be reserved for people who are diligently working to lead other folks astray from truth, in groves intentionally, because they don't believe themselves.<br />
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It is not a word to describe a Bible teacher who believes differently then you. Or someone who attends a church of a different denomination.<br />
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They believe that they can talk to God and hear back from Him. You believe that God stopped talking at the end of the apostolic age. What does that have to do with Jesus?<br />
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How does any of this bring people closer to truth.<br />
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I've been a believer for nearly three decades. Two of them have been spent teaching and leading others. Looking back on some of my earlier notes I'm surprised, maybe even shocked, by some of the things I taught.<br />
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But, I could only teach what I had an understanding of at the time. In later years my lessons evolved as I experienced growth. So the pattern goes on and on until this day.<br />
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I have not attained all knowledge.<br />
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Does that make me a heretic? No. Does it make the teacher/preacher of fifty years any less of a potential candidate for heresy? I don't think so.<br />
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I believe we need a better understanding of this word. We also need to refrain from slapping it on people like name badges at a convention.<br />
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Just because someone does not believe the same thing that you do does not constitute heresy. It could BUT most times it is merely a difference of beliefs. Perhaps a difference in levels of spiritual maturity.<br />
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Recently someone that I respect stated, on social media, that they could not recommend a certain teacher/speaker's books because that person's teachings were heretical. While I didn't challenge the statement, my heart was sad.<br />
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Grieved for the body of Christ.<br />
<br />
I thought of the many women who had benefited from the dedication of this teacher. People who had given their lives to Christ, both men and women, because they'd sat in one of her studies or heard her speak live. I recalled the countless lives that had grown in the area of spiritual discipline as a result of this prominent author.<br />
<br />
I was one of them.<br />
<br />
I'm not saying that we can't get "off on tangents" or misinterpret the Word of God from time to time. I venture to say that this happens more often then not. When it is obvious it needs to be corrected in a biblical manner. Up close and personal.<br />
<br />
In a spirit of love.<br />
<br />
A rant on (insert social media outlet of your choice) does not bring God's truth to the body of Christ. It is divisive and brings strife. It is counter-productive spiritually.<br />
<br />
Paul the Apostle explained that not everyone who preached the gospel did so with the same understanding or motives as he did. Some did it for what they could gain. Even then he did not call those people heretics.<br />
<br />
He rejoiced even when the message wasn't preached with full knowledge or best intentions. Paul's heart so yearned for the gospel of Jesus Christ to reach all ears that he didn't want anything to stand in the way.<br />
<br />
This should be our greatest concern as well.<br />
<br />
No one made us "Bible cops." Don't get me wrong. We do need to investigate Scripture. Take it apart. Study it. Dissect passages. Rightly divide the word of truth.<br />
<br />
I have a feeling if we spent more time doing this, with the help of the Holy Spirit, that we'd have far less time to label and call other brothers and sisters nasty names. Or pick apart their words like Inspector Gadget.<br />
<br />
We'd be too busy getting the mote out of our eye. Cleansing our heart and hands. Washing our dirty laundry. Busy pondering the weight of our words.<br />
<br />
There is a time for correction and a place for rebuking. But when doing so we must always remember this very important fact...<br />
<br />
Words have a long shelf life which is why we must always be certain they are seasoned with truth and grace. <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-24138487169441110342014-02-16T19:04:00.001-08:002014-03-12T21:45:57.180-07:00Life Support: A review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OlKfma84hMA/UwFvwmb--cI/AAAAAAAABwY/Ejqh4FcjWcU/s1600/lifesupport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OlKfma84hMA/UwFvwmb--cI/AAAAAAAABwY/Ejqh4FcjWcU/s1600/lifesupport.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></div>
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I recently had the good fortune of winning an ARC copy<b style="font-style: italic;"> </b>of <b style="font-style: italic;">Life Support</b> by author Candace Calvert which is currently on pre-order at all major book retailers. Although it appears that Amazon.com is shipping the paper copies even as I type this review. This is good news!<br />
<br />
If you rush over there before finishing this post, I will not take it personally. It will just mean you are probably already familiar with Candace's work. However, if you can wait just a few more moments here is more information on <b><i>Life Support</i></b> including an overview of the book, the author's bio, and my review.<br />
<br />
And yes, in short, I loved it!<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<b><i>The book: </i></b></div>
Nurse Lauren Barclay put her life on hold to keep a watchful eye
on her troubled sister. It’s why she’s back in Houston. But that means
confronting the brooding physician assistant who caused painful turmoil in her
family--and left Lauren with memories her heart can’t forget.<o:p></o:p>
<br />
<br />
PA and single parent Elijah
Landry is no stranger to stormy relationships, including one with his father,
who is threatening him with a restraining order. It won’t stop Eli from
protecting his disabled brother--or from making peace with Lauren. He wants that
and so much more.<o:p></o:p>
<br />
<br />
But as Lauren and Eli draw
closer, a powerful hurricane roars toward Houston. Survival instincts take
priority and everything changes. Can hope weather the storm? (via Tyndale
Publishers)<br />
<br />
<b><i>The review:</i></b><br />
I love a good “medical drama” which I owe, by the way, for the
most part to author Candace Calvert. She and I became acquainted via "tweets" a few years ago while she was writing her very first series. I was intrigued
so I read the first book and was immediately hooked. You’ll want to check all
of her books out. I’ll add some links to help you find them at the end of this
review. They can be read separately or as part of a series. Each conveys its
own unique message of hope while tackling some very tough
issues. <o:p></o:p>
<br />
<br />
<b><i>Life Support</i></b> was no exception in that it tackled tough subjects
such as: single parenting, spousal abuse, addictions, mental illness, and
caregiver’s concerns. I’m certain that this is not an all conclusive summation
but those were some of the issues that stood out to me as I read.<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p>
What I really loved about this book is the way Candace manages to
deal with this potpourri of dilemmas from more than one point of view. Both
those suffering from these issues and their family members and friends were portrayed in the story line. And it is all very believable. I quickly
connected with the characters and found myself emotionally invested. Why, because
I could relate. And if you've lived upon this earth for any length of time, you’ll
be able to find yourself within the pages of this book at some point, too.<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p>
Take a handful of characters that are a part of the medical
profession in one way or another. Scoop in several scenarios which include the
pains and pressures of life. Add some mystery and intrigue. Knead in a little
romance, neither too bland nor too spicy. Mix in a looming hurricane not
unlike Katrina. Throw in a pinch of faith, a smidgen of grace, and a large
measure of hope and what do you have? A perfectly plated medical “hope opera” like <b><i>Life Support</i></b>.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Candace Calvert delivers spiritual food in every book that she
writes. What I most enjoy is the fact that her writing gifts, along
with her extensive experience as a former ER nurse, allow her to do so in a way
that is not “preachy”. I feel quite certain that much of this is a reflection
of the authors own faith experience. But, whatever the case, the way she weaves faith, hope, and love within the lines of her tales make her books ideal for all audiences.<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p>
I must confess, I’m a little sad to see the <b><i>Grace Medical Series</i></b>
come to an end. I felt the same way about the <b><i>Mercy Hospital Series</i></b>. Thankfully
the author is working on edits for a new series <b><i>Crisis Team</i></b> which will be
released in 2015. <o:p></o:p>
It was a delight to read <b><i>Life Support</i></b> prior to it's scheduled release as I was aching to find out how things were going with Lauren Barclay and her family.<br />
<br />
My kudos
to the author for the great job she did of wrapping up this series. She masterfully tied up prior loose ends and also brought these
characters to the place where I can “let them go” knowing that God’s wonderful
plan will continue to work in their lives. This, of course, gives me hope as well. It is also why I highly recommend <b><i>Life Support</i></b> along with all of Candace's books.<br />
<br />
<b><i>The author: </i></b><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vvPlJwz_rdU/UwF9woVHt-I/AAAAAAAABw0/rvQRGL3FuH8/s1600/candy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vvPlJwz_rdU/UwF9woVHt-I/AAAAAAAABw0/rvQRGL3FuH8/s1600/candy.jpg" height="200" width="147" /></a>Candace Calvert is a former ER nurse who believes love, laughter and faith are the best medicines. She likens her exciting Mercy Hospital and Grace Medical series to "Grey's Anatomy finds its soul." A native Californian, she is the mother of two and the proud grandmother of seven.
When she's not writing she enjoys cruise travel, cooking, gardening, bird-watching, hiking, country dancing, and being her husband's biggest karaoke fan.<br />
<br />
To read an excerpt from <b><i>Life Support</i></b> click <a href="http://candacecalvert.com/excerpt_ls.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
To pre-order a copy of <b><i>Life Support</i></b> click<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Support-Grace-Medical-Candace-Calvert/dp/1414361130" target="_blank"> here</a>. (Amazon.com appears to be shipping the paperback now but hurry as they only have a few copies left)<br />
<br />
For an overview of all of Candace Calvert's books click <a href="http://candacecalvert.com/books.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
To visit the author's website click <a href="http://candacecalvert.com/index.php" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
You can also connect with Candace on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/candacecalvertbooks" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/CandaceCalvert" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.<br />
<br />
(I received a free copy of this book from Tyndale with no obligation to write a positive review)<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-8619776541940465442014-02-01T22:53:00.003-08:002017-03-24T10:07:28.835-07:00All I Have is a Whisper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Av0dJpCzAbs/Uu3oePQd5eI/AAAAAAAABvo/-G_7g9imT38/s1600/MP900341542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Av0dJpCzAbs/Uu3oePQd5eI/AAAAAAAABvo/-G_7g9imT38/s1600/MP900341542.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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At the beginning of January, I accepted a challenge by <a href="http://goinswriter.com/500-words/" target="_blank">Jeff Goins</a> to write 500 words daily for 31 days. Simple and direct it
required nothing more and nothing less. </div>
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This is a challenge
which I should never have had to take. </div>
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Writing was once as natural to me as breathing. I did it
often. For many years, prior to blogs and "vlogs", I published short stories and
devotionals almost daily. When I wasn't mining words, I was storing ideas or
brainstorming for teaching series. But then something happened to my voice. Or,
perhaps, the venue changed around me so suddenly and dramatically that it left
me feeling disoriented and lost.<br />
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<br />
One person in a sea of voices--with laryngitis.</div>
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Yes, it seemed that suddenly I lost my voice. I found this
to be both frightening and sad. Especially when time didn't heal it. Doesn't
time heal everything? Or have I just read those words so many times on Facebook
feeds and Twitter tweets that I've come to take them as fact. </div>
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How does someone just stop doing something they have a
passion for? It happens all the time. People quit jobs, leave relationships,
drop hobbies, etc. Many times they fill the voids in their lives with
mind-dulling activities to numb the pain of the loss of something that they
love or loved. </div>
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I have been guilty of this.</div>
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You see, I once loved to write. While I never claimed to be
good at it, I truly enjoyed penning my thoughts, feelings, ideas, etc. I was
delighted when people responded to my words. Whether it was a handwritten card,
conversational email, e-magazine article, or a devotional it seemed that people
enjoyed my writing and related to what I shared. </div>
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How I miss those days. </div>
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The times before the internet became
a cacophony of sounds. The years before "churnalism", blogs, and social media,
etc. when people communicated mostly face-to-face. They used email to bridge
the gap of distance. Not to promote or sell stuff. Back then my voice seemed loud and clear. </div>
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Not so much these days. </div>
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This is why I now struggle to write. Having lost my voice in
all of the online noise, it is hard work to try to find it. Can I still type
words? Yes, of course. But what should I talk about? There are droves of
writers clamoring for people's time and attention. Many of them have a loud
voice and a big audience. </div>
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All I have is a whisper. </div>
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I know that I need to write first and foremost because I am
a writer. It is not for other people that I pen words. I write to fulfill one
of the purposes for which I was created. But is it a waste of time if no one
hears the words? Wouldn't my time be better spent doing something else? Have
all of the words already been said, re-said, reclaimed and spoken again? </div>
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That is what it feels like most days. I, myself, feel as
though I'm being stretched and pulled in many directions to keep up with other
writer's content. Why do I bother? Because it is good stuff. It is useful, insightful, and meaningful. But
do I need to add to it? Be another voice in the mix. One more person
promoting their ideology in an already overcrowded space? </div>
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Sometimes I don't know. </div>
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I have been told that "my voice is needed" but
just how can a whisper be heard above the roar of this world? It seems to me
that it can only happen if the voice has the right message. Words are good.
They are beautiful. Even lovely. But we already have enough words floating
around the atmosphere. </div>
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What we need are messages. </div>
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Life-giving, spirit-stirring, thought-provoking, plan-altering words. I don't
think that just turning oneself over and spilling out will do these days. There
is enough of that going on already. For me, as a reader, it gets old unless it happens to meet me "where I am at."</div>
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In the crowd. Longing to be heard. Whispering. </div>
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It is hard to imagine that a thin-voiced writer could be
heard above all the noise that is already being made. Those kinds of thoughts
taunt me daily when I even think about picking up a pen. I am heckled by my own questions. Chided by self-doubt. </div>
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And then I remember
the words of a song by Tracy Chapman which say "don't you know, talking
about a revolution starts with a whisper." Hmm, maybe she is on to something. And perhaps, so am I. </div>
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Could it
be that the volume of your voice doesn't matter nearly as much as what you have
to say.</div>
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Is it possible to make an impact with words without being a braggart,
liar, or self-promoting fool? I guess that I am about to find out. To do so,
I've got to find my voice in this season of life. That all begins with a barely
audible throaty whisper which says...</div>
<br />
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"Within me there is a message that matters."</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-3811698362431031022013-10-15T09:31:00.000-07:002017-03-23T16:55:56.573-07:00Salvaged<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZEDQqh6ZRXk/Ul1scvYR1lI/AAAAAAAABsc/N4OUHSfRVn0/s1600/salavaged2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZEDQqh6ZRXk/Ul1scvYR1lI/AAAAAAAABsc/N4OUHSfRVn0/s400/salavaged2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Today I am interviewing Stefne Miller the author of the book <b><i>Salvaged</i></b>. Recently <b><i>Salvaged</i></b>, Stefne's first book, was transformed into a web series with the hope of being picked up by a network or distributor for full length production. After viewing the pilot episode, I can see why.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
Here's more from Stefne about the <i style="font-weight: bold;">Salvaged </i>web series:<br />
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<b>How did the <i>Salvaged</i> web series come about?</b><br />
I was working with Director, Paul Morrell on a movie adaptation of my third novel, <b><i>Collision</i></b>. We had just completed the screenplay and were about to move in to the next phase, when I told him about an idea I had for <b><i>Salvaged</i></b>. I'd always believed that it would make a great teen drama series - either on television, straight to DVD or web streaming. He loved the idea and was interested in doing it. Within days, a friend that I mentioned it to, offered to pay to have a pilot/proof of concept reel developed. Less than a month later, I was in LA holding a casting call. Two weeks later, a cast and crew of 25 were in a rented house, shooting for five days. We decided to take the pilot episode and also release it as a web series so that we could introduce people to the story, characters and our quality of work. We believe that this can only help both the <b><i>Salvaged</i></b> and <b><i>Collision</i></b> projects.<br />
<br />
<b><i>What is the big goal?</i></b><br />
The big picture goal is that a network or distributor would pick up the series. I've already written the scripts for eight 45 minute episodes or what could easily be turned in to a mini-series.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Who are you hoping to reach with this series?</i></b><br />
<b><i>Salvaged</i></b>, the web series is based on my first novel by the same name. It is a young adult Christian fiction novel that was able to transcend the lines of Christian fiction and also move into the secular market. Salvaged was first picked up in the mainstream young adult fiction blogging world and the reviews and ratings landed me on the <a href="http://goodreads.com/">Goodreads.com</a> Reader's Choice Awards finalist list for Debut Author of 2010. I am hoping that <b><i>Salvaged</i></b> will continue to reach out into various audiences and present them with a powerful story that has the ability to impact lives - no matter the way in which they receive it (book, web series, tv show, etc).<br />
<br />
<b><i>When does the series come out?</i></b><br />
There are six episodes. The first was released on September 25th. The remaining episodes will release every Wednesday at 8 am (CST) through October 30th.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Where can viewers find the episodes?</i></b><br />
<b><i>Salvaged</i></b> has it's own YouTube channel at: <a href="http://youtube.com/salvagedseries">youtube.com/salvagedseries</a>. The episodes will stay on the Salvaged YouTube channel for viewers to watch far into the future.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Where can we find out more about the series and the book?</i></b><br />
You can also learn more about the series on the official <b><i>Salvaged</i></b> web site at <a href="http://salvagedseries.com/">salvagedseries.com</a>. You can read an except of the first chapter of <b><i>Salvaged</i></b>, the book, at my web site, <a href="http://stefnemiller.com/">stefnemiller.com</a>, or purchase a copy online or at your local bookstores.<br />
<br />
<b><i>What are more ways we can get involved in the Salvaged Series blog tour?</i></b><br />
Post a comment on the Facebook page for this book tour - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/212419472258280/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a><br />
Join the Salvaged Series Blog Tour & watch new episodes - <a href="http://clicktotweet.com/x8c94" target="_blank">CLICK TO TWEET</a><br />
Watch the weekly episodes on the Salvaged YouTube channel ... Post comments and give thumbs up - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/SalvagedSeries" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a><br />
<br />
This blog tour is hosted by <a href="http://www.christianspeakersservices.com/" target="_blank">Christian Speakers Services</a>.<br />
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<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-13418688614112413152013-02-22T20:28:00.001-08:002014-03-12T21:45:23.853-07:00The Moses Quilt: An Interview <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ZlbkR5MjYY/UShCPb9NHeI/AAAAAAAABf0/omUInZNRKdw/s1600/mosesquilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ZlbkR5MjYY/UShCPb9NHeI/AAAAAAAABf0/omUInZNRKdw/s1600/mosesquilt.jpg" /></a>Today I am hosting an interview, once again, with author Kathi Macias. She has been a frequent featured author on my blog because I love her writing so much.<br />
<br />
Her latest series begins with <b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Moses-Quilt-Kathi-Macias/dp/1596693584/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1361592787&sr=8-1&keywords=the+moses+quilt" target="_blank">The Moses Quilt</a></i></b>. I'll let Kathi tell you more about that book and the rest of the upcoming books in this series.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><i>The Quilt Series sounds interesting, but what makes it unique or sets it apart from the many other quilt books that are so popular right now?</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
First, I must confess to NOT being a quilter. I’ve never even considered taking it up! Second, I love quilts and have always been fascinated by the stories behind them. I combined that fascination with my passion for writing issues-related fiction, and I ended up with a three-book series that is, for the most part, contemporary but told against historical backdrops.<br />
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<b><i>Sounds interesting! Can you tell us a bit about each of the three books in the series?</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
Sure! Book one, The Moses Quilt, involves an interracial romance, where the couple works through their concerns and apprehensions as they learn the story of Harriet Tubman’s faith and courage as told through the patches of the Moses quilt that represents her life. Book two, The Doctor’s Christmas Quilt, deals with the topic of abortion told against the backdrop of the life of America’s first woman doctor, Elizabeth Blackwell, who was strongly pro-life. Book three, The Singing Quilt, deals with a young woman overcoming a physical disability; the background for that story is based on the “Queen of Gospel,” Fannie Crosby.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Was it difficult to do the research on these women, particularly Harriet Tubman? What did you learn about her in the process?</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
I knew more about Harriet Tubman than I did about Elizabeth Blackwell or Fannie Crosby, but I expanded my knowledge of each as I did the research. Harriet Tubman’s amazing faith and courage is what stood out most to me about her life. Here was a woman born a slave, penniless for the majority of her life, and illiterate except for the scripture verses she had memorized (even if she couldn’t read them). Her prayer life was powerful, even as a child. After she escaped to the North and began making forays back into the South to help bring others out of slavery, friends would caution her against it. “Harriet, there’s a reward on your head—dead or alive. Aren’t you afraid?” She brushed off their fear and explained that she believed God had called her to help rescue her people; therefore, He would protect her. When her job was done, He would take her home to heaven, so what was there to fear? Wow, what a dynamic woman of God! I also learned that her achievements went far beyond rescuing slaves, though that’s what she’s best known for. She also served as a spy for the Union Army, worked as a nurse, and opened a home for indigent elderly former slaves. She died there herself in her mid-nineties, and the entire town flew their flags at half-mast in her honor.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Tell us a little more about the contemporary story in The Moses Quilt.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
The majority of the contemporary story is set just outside San Francisco. Mazie is white and deeply in love with Edward, an African-American lawyer who adores her and wants to marry her but tries to be respectful of her hesitation to make a commitment. What he doesn’t know is that Mazie is disturbed by what she considers secrets in her family’s past, secrets that begin to be unraveled as her great-grandmother, Mimi, tells her and Edward the story behind her Moses quilt, which she bought years earlier in Gee’s Bend, Alabama, a little town famous for its quilts. Edward thought he knew everything there was to know about Harriet Tubman, who had always been somewhat of a hero to him, but Mimi’s story opens up new avenues of discovery for both the young people in this relationship—and takes them straight back to the quilt’s origin in Gee’s Bend.<br />
<br />
<b><i>This sounds like more than just a “feel-good” story. Can it be used as a study book in some way?</i></b><br />
<br />
Absolutely! As with nearly all my books we have free downloadable discussion questions at <a href="http://www.newhopedigital.com/">www.newhopedigital.com</a> that will enable The Moses Quilt to be read as a study book for individuals or used as a discussion/study book for groups.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OyNliiT4vbE/UShAk1kF4mI/AAAAAAAABfs/jeKuDxa0R-o/s1600/kathi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OyNliiT4vbE/UShAk1kF4mI/AAAAAAAABfs/jeKuDxa0R-o/s200/kathi.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a>Kathi Macias is a multi-award winning writer who has authored nearly 40 books and ghostwritten several others. A former newspaper columnist and string reporter, Kathi has taught creative and business writing in various venues and has been a guest on many radio and television programs. Kathi is a popular speaker at churches, women’s clubs and retreats, and writers’ conferences. She won the prestigious 2008 member of the year award from AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association) at the annual Golden Scrolls award banquet. Kathi “Easy Writer” Macias lives in Homeland, CA, with her husband, Al.</div>
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For opportunities for free copies of <i>THE MOSES QUILT</i> by Kathi Macias, please follow this book tour on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/CSSVBT.KathiMacias" target="_blank">Facebook</a> at: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/CSSVBT.KathiMacias">www.facebook.com/CSSVBT.KathiMacias</a>.<br />
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This blog host was given a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for posting the author’s interview and/or book review on this blog. CSS Virtual Book Tours are managed by Christian Speakers Services <a href="http://draft.blogger.com/(http://ChristianSpeakersServices.com">(http://ChristianSpeakersServices.com</a>).Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-21865934030178738592013-01-15T14:35:00.000-08:002017-03-23T16:57:28.177-07:00Beauty is in the eye of the beholderYesterday I decided to participate in Margaret Feinberg's <a href="http://margaretfeinberg.com/the-21-day-wonder-challenge/" target="_blank">21 Days of Wonder Challenge</a>. For most people that would be no big deal but since I haven't been feeling well or spending much time online it was actually a big commitment.<br />
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Why the Wonderstruck challenge?<br />
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It all started when I read a sampling of Margaret's latest book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wonderstruck-Awaken-Nearness-Margaret-Feinberg/dp/1617950882/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1358288838&sr=8-3&keywords=wonderstruck" target="_blank">Wonderstruck: Awaken to the Nearness of God</a>. Something about this book got to me. I have not received my copy to finish reading it but so far this is what I can say. It made me realized that the trials of life, which have loomed large lately, have in many ways hindered me from sensing God's presence in my life.<br />
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I don't want that to continue.<br />
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So I decided to spend the next 21 days really looking for God in small and big ways. I'd already begun to pay more attention then I had in quite sometime since reading the sample. As a result, I've snapped some pictures of beautifully colored clouds. Stood and listened to the symphony of birds singing in our backyard. You get the point. I'm becoming more aware of God.<br />
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But I want much more.<br />
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So yesterday I created this graphic from a picture that I took this fall. It is my prayer as I begin this challenge which is more like a season in my life since my word for 2013 is "wonder." Thank you, Margaret. I've got hundreds of days to travel on this path to increased awareness of the nearness of God. I'm anxious as to what it all means for my life.<br />
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Which is why it seems strange that I almost quit this challenge on the very first day.<br />
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I awoke to the sound of rain beating against the window. The weather report was/is not good. There are predictions of an ice storm heading our way. Ice is never fun to drive on and both of my guys (husband and son) are out in the elements. It is an ugly day and my mood has been dampened by all of the rain.<br />
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Today's challenge was to capture something beautiful with the lens of a camera. I sighed when I first read it. It really seemed more like a chore. But determined to try I spent much of the day looking. This afternoon I was hoping that a bird would come out to hunt worms. It appears that it's even too cold for them. Ha!<br />
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What wonder could I possibly find in this dreary day that is worth sharing?<br />
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I'd all but given up after scanning my surroundings countless times. Then, late this afternoon, I spied the weeping cherry tree in our yard. It is bare and ugly during this season. Gnarly would be a fitting word. Yet, as I stood staring I noticed the way that the raindrops were sitting on the branches. It was then that I grabbed my camera.<br />
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Something about them struck a chord in me.<br />
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About that time a dialogue began in my mind about how amazing it is that God allows rain to fall from the sky. How this planet would be inhabitable without it. How we would miss out on the beauty of so many things if we didn't experience the dormancy of winter. The latent phases bring strength to the roots of the trees and plants.<br />
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And the rain keeps them alive and prepares them to bloom in season.<br />
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Suddenly my mood improved and I began to see this day differently as I pondered the provision of God regarding things that we often take for granted or even complain about. Oh me.<br />
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Someone once said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Today I have found that to be true. This photo won't be beautiful to anyone else but it reminds me of the God's faithfulness to me. That is beautiful, indeed.<br />
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<i>"You give abundant showers, O God; you refresh your weary inheritance." Ps 68:9</i><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8760019096917551156.post-84540672232136978962012-11-15T13:49:00.000-08:002017-03-23T16:58:40.134-07:00Unexpected Christmas Hero: A Must Read Holiday Story<br />
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If you spend a few moments looking around my blog you’ll quickly discover that I am a huge fan of Kathi Macias’ books. She is an author who is using her writing gifts to craft stories about difficult subjects that educate and enlighten the readers. Every time I read something which Kathi has written I am challenged to change my thinking and or actions.<br />
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Her holiday book, for this year, focuses on homelessness. I did not realize until I began reading <b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Unexpected-Christmas-Hero-Kathi-Macias/dp/1596693541/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1353013132&sr=8-1&keywords=unexpected+christmas+hero" target="_blank">Unexpected Christmas Hero</a></i></b> how little I really knew about this subject. For example, I was unaware of the fact that about 25% of the homeless in America are families (one or two parent) with young children.<br />
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There was much that I learned from the story of Josie and her two children. Thrust into poverty suddenly through no real fault of their own they struggle to survive daily and do so only because of the goodwill and help of others. Along the way they meet Rick, a homeless Vietnam vet, who does a great deal to help them navigate the streets. He also becomes their unexpected Christmas hero. To say more would ruin your reading experience but I really was touched by this novel.<br />
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As with all of Kathi’s books <b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Unexpected-Christmas-Hero-Kathi-Macias/dp/1596693541/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1353013132&sr=8-1&keywords=unexpected+christmas+hero" target="_blank">Unexpected Christmas Hero</a></i></b> had me from the first page. I spent an entire day reading it to see what the outcome would be for each of the characters. The story left me counting my blessings. It also challenged me to consider what I might do to help the many people who are less fortunate than me...especially during this season.<br />
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That is the reason that I love this author’s work. It makes the reader realize that there is something that they can do to help others in "seemingly" hopeless situations. It is often something that would be thought of as insignificant or small. We all can play a part in making a difference. The author always conveys within the story the very necessary reminder that no situation is hopeless with God. He is able to do miracles in the most difficult circumstances…and use people to be His hands and feet.<br />
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I highly recommend that you begin your holiday season by reading <b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Unexpected-Christmas-Hero-Kathi-Macias/dp/1596693541/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1353013132&sr=8-1&keywords=unexpected+christmas+hero" target="_blank">Unexpected Christmas Hero</a></i></b> and then pass it along to friends. It will put things into proper perspective while bringing hope. I also recommend that you search out other books by this author. Each one of them has been life-changing for me. I believe that they will be for you as well.<br />
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Kathi Macias is a multi-award winning writer who has authored nearly 40 books and ghostwritten several others. A former newspaper columnist and string reporter, Kathi has taught creative and business writing in various venues and has been a guest on many radio and television programs. Kathi is a popular speaker at churches, women’s clubs and retreats, and writers’ conferences. She won the prestigious 2008 member of the year award from AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association) at the annual Golden Scrolls award banquet. Kathi “Easy Writer” Macias lives in Homeland, CA, with her husband, Al.<br />
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To catch the "story behind the story" check out my interview with Kathi <a href="http://www.melindalancaster.com/2012/11/unexpected-christmas-hero-author.html" target="_blank">here</a>. You'll find all of her contact information and the ways you can connect with her via social media within the interview. <br />
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