Over the years, I’ve cherished the robust and sometimes rowdy conversations between family and friends during gatherings. Whether it’s about religion, politics, sports, or who won the card game, it’s lively and sometimes rather intense. Like many of your families, my family is full of strong opinions, and everyone is eager to share. Sometimes the conversations are fascinating because we learn so much about each other’s passions, and other times they become an ouch! The difference between a good conversation and an OUCH is whether or not we’re respectfully speaking AND generously listening. Meaningful relationships are born through meaningful conversations. […]

The holidays are often painted as a season of joy, celebration and connection, but for many, it can be a time when emptiness feels especially heavy. The glittering lights and festive music can serve as painful reminders of what feels absent — a sense of peace, purpose or God’s presence. Emptiness during the holidays can stem from unmet expectations, grief over loved ones who are no longer here, the weight of family dynamics or personal struggles that don’t pause for the season. It’s easy to feel disconnected from the joy others seem to radiate or to wonder why God feels […]