Arguably one of the shining stars of the Olympics was Alysa Liu, not only for her athleticism and artistry, but for authentically being herself.  As one watched the Olympic Games unfold, it was evident that a movement was developing among the athletes.  A movement that was positive, unified, grateful, and joyful for having an opportunity to live out their dreams. I have watched the Olympics throughout my lifetime, but I have never seen one athlete change the perspective of so many people simply by authentically being themselves.  Alysa accomplished this, and the world saw her joy the moment she entered…

My mind suddenly turns a switch and, for that brief moment, wonders if anyone is watching.  Of course, there are things where we desire privacy, which is understandable, and thank you. But what about all the times when we are about to cross a line of ethics? Turning my head left and right, questioning if anybody is watching my actions.  Whenever those thoughts come into my head, I quickly move to analyzing what I’m doing.  Why am I doing something that I have to ask myself if anyone is watching? It is a trigger for me, a warning, a…

Each day, I strive to share love without blame.  I have moments when judgment sneaks in, but I quickly change my thoughts to what I can do to improve the current situation.  Sometimes that means I have to let go of something that was said or done.  Other times, I can let compassion take over and better understand the current situation.  What I like best is when the situation allows me to grow through simply taking a moment to see a different perspective than my own.  Blame has yet to work in my favor.   Sometimes I am wrong, and other…

There are many things in life that I might enjoy, but I choose to avoid because they are toxic to me. Things that I may love, but for some reason, take me off track, off my path.  The most important thing to me is that I recognize the things that are toxic in my life. Some things I can eliminate, others I can distance myself from, and then there are the things I live with daily that I must manage. When it is clear to me that something is poisoning my ability to serve Jesus, I know it is time…