The original version of this essay was published on May 16, 2016 in Self Talk the Gospel. I’m fascinated by bridges. I live in California so you can imagine the first bridge that comes to mind is the Golden Gate Bridge. Regal. Majestic. Glorious. Poppy red-by-day and glowing-with-lights by night. Iconic to the San Francisco skyline. The ... [Keep Reading...]
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Grief journey: How to lift your eyes in the brokenness
The following is guest post written by my new friend and fellow Hope*Writer Tara Dickson. We met through a writer's group and I found myself resonating with her story. I am privileged to watch her navigate her "new normal" as a widow mama and grandma. I hope her story ministers to you today! Life doesn’t look the way I expected. Does it for ... [Keep Reading...]
Running therapy: how grief crashes like ocean waves
The ocean has always been my happy place. Ever since I was a little girl I have found refuge near the water’s edge. There’s something about the crash of the waves, the salty air tickling my tongue and the breathtaking sunsets that draws poetry out of me. I have run over a diversity of terrains these last few years but Saturday was my first time ... [Keep Reading...]
Navigating Grief: Facing Triggers and Trauma
I take the exit for Herndon Avenue. My heart starts to race as I approach that intersection. I look to my right, and my eyes linger on the stone statue of Jesus with hands spread, that circular drive, the white façade of the towering buildings. I feel a little queasy. Although my husband only spent three days in that hospital during his ... [Keep Reading...]
When your morning feels stressful, start with music {and a free playlist!}
About a year ago I was struggling with how to spend my time in the morning. I got in this rhythm where the first thing I did was reach for my phone and start scrolling through social media. One thing would lead to the next. I would read an article here, a post there. I would start a conversation with a friend about that cute kid picture she posted ... [Keep Reading...]
The Ministry of Presence
Last night I woke to the sound of my 5-year-old whimpering in the next room. I ran in to check on her. “Mama, mama, I had the baddest dream,” came her trembling voice. I climbed into the top bunk bed next to her and laid down. “Mama’s here,” I assured her. She put her little hand in mine. Immediately, I felt her body relax. She drifted back to ... [Keep Reading...]
