Have you noticed that you act differently around different people? More specifically, have you noticed that when you’re around your parents (or any parental figures), you revert back to some of your childlike tendencies? Maybe you don’t… Maybe that’s just me. Let me explain. I turned 40 in July, so I’m a full-fledged adult, I…
Category: Mindset Switch
A Mindset Switch About… How to Really Thrive With God
I got this. I can do it myself. Everyone might turn their backs on me, but I will keep soldiering on. Just wait and see what I can do! I’m learning to stand on my own two feet. Phrases like these are highly celebrated in modern culture. We place significant value on the ability to…
A Mindset Switch About… Being a Strong Person
How would you define a “strong” person? When you envision a person of (non-physical) strength, what comes to mind? Maybe one of these ideas: Independent Emotionally stable Resilient Confident Self-motivated Disciplined Mentally tough Willing and able to overcome challenges Unconcerned about the opinions of others We tend to view a person as “strong” if they…
The Good Thing about Feeling Weak and Helpless
On a beautiful Friday last May, I had one of those days where I left school thinking only about how much I love teaching. All the reasons why I’ve stayed in the classroom for 18 years were running through my mind as I left the building and headed home, and they stayed in my mind…
When You Realize You Actually Own Nothing
Did you know… 92% of American households own a car, 65% of Americans own a house, 92% of American adults own a cellphone, and 97% of American households own at least one TV set. Most also own furniture, kitchen appliances, a decent set of clothing, numerous streaming subscriptions, enough food to satisfy their hungry tummies…
A Mindset Switch About… How to Feel About Work
Do you ever feel like you’re living for the weekend? Or living for the days when you don’t have to go to work? Or maybe you even feel like you’re just desperately waiting for the time of your life when you don’t have to work at all anymore? I will never forget an email I…
Why Not to Pursue an Easy, Carefree Life
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you needed to be saved from something or someone? You might have needed rescue in a life-threatening situation. The closest thing to a life-saving rescue I’ve experienced was probably when, as an 8-year-old, I found myself lying on my back with a dog standing on top…
When You Give Out What You Need Most
Is there something you really need right now? Something you’re craving? Not necessarily tangible things, but qualities or feelings. Are you in desperate need of joy? Or are you in a season where you are craving peace or unconditional love? My advice for you today is to give out whatever it is that you desire…
Choosing to Slow Down in a Fast-Paced World
I saw a local high school production of “Sister Act” last fall. A student I taught a decade ago is a very talented actor and singer, and he was starring as Eddie in his high school’s fall musical. Such a great show! Have you seen it? It’s got everything—humor, endearing characters, powerful musical numbers, sisterhood,…
A Mindset Switch About… Suffering and its Surprising Silver Linings
Suffering gets a pretty bad rap. Agree? Pretty much any kind of suffering we find ourselves subject to feels negative, painful and, just generally speaking, like something we should try to avoid at all costs. Shoot, who would even want to read a blog post about suffering?! Or write one, for that matter… 🤔 But…