We are experiencing a time when reassuring people with a hug is limited to your immediate isolation “family.”  It is a time when many of us need that closeness, but some of our normal avenues of comfort are not readily available to us. Looking at my own family I am incredibly impressed at how they have adapted to what has been imposed on all of us these past few months.  Although none of us know what is in our future, I find myself giving reassurance that we will embrace whatever becomes our new normal.    I see a world full of…

I care what people think because I don’t want people not to like me, right?  It is so simple but so powerful.  Most of us want to be liked or want to be likable.  Being disliked can be very lonely.  However, it seems to me that we can be lonely even if we are well-liked.    So why do I really care what people think?  1.  I care because I genuinely have love in my heart for all individuals. I may not respect everything that everyone does, but I do have love in my heart for all.  The opposite…

“I love you” are powerful words when used authentically.  I was reminded earlier this week regarding the importance of verbally communicating the love in your heart.  Equally important is the meaning of what we say! During this time of social distancing, it seems even more important to define our feelings in words.  Those words might be targeted at our family, friends, or even co-workers.  When entering my parent’s home I am greeted with warm hugs.  When I leave we again exchange heartfelt hugs and say, “Love you.”  During this time of social distancing, it is awkward to come…

What can I do to minimize the stress around me?  If I am asking that question that means I am aware that stress exists in my life.  Acknowledging that I am in the middle of a storm is a very good start.  Once I admit that stress exists I am able to put together a plan to reduce or eliminate that stress.    1.  Give my worries to God and rely on my faith. The moment I feel stress negatively affecting my life, I take a moment and give my worries to God.  I pray for assistance in finding a solution…