I want to say that it took one time disregarding warning signals, but I have experienced many, and some I have chosen to rationalize.  There was the time I was asked to contribute to the monthly goal at work, the times I was asked to compromise my standards for someone else’s pleasure, and the times I did almost everything possible to do the right thing, yet left a small window of opportunity undone.  It is so tempting to compromise because the person pushing has been nice, has ties to your paycheck, or it is in some way costly…

It is not uncommon to spend time, money, and energy on having the right things.  The dinner needs to be right, the house needs to look a certain way, and the yard must look manicured.  If we are going out with people, we need to choose the right location and restaurant.  When going out socially, the desire is strong to have the right outfit by the right designer.  All of this often comes with a great deal of stress, worry, and expense. I like my house to look nice, serve a delicious meal, and look my best.  But for me…

In most areas of my life, I learn and grow when I accurately identify where to start. I find that I need to start at a place where I can begin to comprehend the information.  There might be endless material to choose from, but if I choose something too technical or too simple, I might lose interest. One of the most beneficial tools I’ve used for myself and when with others is to attempt to assess what we have and what we hope to gain.  Once we understand where we’re starting with each topic, person, or assignment, then…

Having a lens of love seems so simple.  However, growing up, I cultivated kindness more than love.  Everyone was welcome at our house and gatherings, but my definition of love was usually reserved for family and friends.  My lens was kind, but needed to be redefined.      How do we truly love all people when so many unkind things are done in this world? I believe it’s about seeing Jesus in each one of us. Not only seeing past the mistakes, but seeing the potential. It’s about allowing ourselves to open our eyes and have compassion for each individual…