We share our condolences with those who are experiencing great sorrow. Often, they are in the thick fog of grieving a loved one who has died. This is a delicate time in their lives, so it’s crucial how we choose the words we share. It can feel uncomfortable when we aren’t sure what to say,…
For the longest time, I thought stubbornness was strength. I believed that deeply digging my heels into the dirt of my personal opinion made me tough. However, a few rounds with reality have humbled me. I have discovered that there’s something more fulfilling, something that exudes confidence, much more than sheer stubbornness. If you’re the…
Our culture champions strength, but at what cost? Often, our so-called strengths are weaknesses in disguise, a facade of success with nothing but stress and dissatisfaction as its roots. If you landed the promotion, are covered in social media praise, and are always being set up on a date with everyone’s favorite kid, you’re what…
We never deserve to be the brunt of passive-aggressive behavior, especially because we owe it to each other to be both honest and respectful. But when others cross those boundaries and resort to this kind of petulance, it’s important to have responses to shut it down (no matter if it stems from anger or something…
I’m always hesitant to use terms like “always” and “never.” Humans are so fickle and situations can paint themselves gray. However, if you are a practicing Christian, there are a few types of people you should never marry. This isn’t a move to judge others or control people who believe differently than you. Instead, being…
Marriage is hard, and that’s putting it lightly. It’s a continuous give and take, an ever-present chance to put someone above yourself. However, it’s also beautiful and forgiving and offers the hope that we never have to be alone. It’s a gift to be loved despite being fully known—secrets, flaws, and all. In the throes of…
I’m a southern gal, hailing from country roads in Georgia. I speak with a drawl that I’d rather not have, but I’m oh, so grateful for the manners I was taught. Back home, it’s always “yes, ma’am” and “no, ma’am.” If it’s not “yes, sir” or “no, sir,” you’re in trouble. We send “thank you”…
I’m from Georgia—the backwoods, farming part of Georgia. (Atlanta makes me feel like I’m in outer space.) My grandmother’s yard was nothing but green rolling hills, flocks of annoying chickens and guineas, and the ever-present dinner guests who were wearing camouflage overalls and spitting tobacco. It’s endearing, truly… except for the tobacco part. However, I…
“You know there’s such thing as religious trauma,” my therapist explained. I shook my head no. After all, “religious trauma” should be an oxymoron, a paradox reserved for fairytales that don’t end so well. But she was right. We can, indeed, be damaged by the church. The more I thought about this ugly truth, the…
