What I Learned about Failure from Jalen Hurts

What I Learned about Failure from Jalen Hurts

When was the last time you failed at something? Every week I sit with someone in my counseling practice who’s failed at something. For some, it’s their marriage.  For others, the failed relationship is with a parent or a son or daughter.  Children that don’t get a...
Words About Heaven to a Dying Friend

Words About Heaven to a Dying Friend

A good friend of mine recently died of cancer. We both had a love for writing, missions, and family. We had similar views on religion and politics and enjoyed a good conversation. Not long before he died, his wife called and said that her husband would like for me to...
Mean Self-Righteousness Can Mask as Kindness

Mean Self-Righteousness Can Mask as Kindness

Many years ago, two deacons from a church I was pastoring asked if they could take me to lunch. Was this an act of kindness? An act of thanks for my hard work? There’s always a reason for lunch. There’s the eating part—we all have to eat—and then...
Confessions of a Workaholic

Confessions of a Workaholic

My wife clocked out of her state job for the last time recently. She is now officially retired. It’s good timing, as she’s needed to help her mother care for her father, who is in hospice care. Recently, my wife asked me to work less in 2024. I sat down...
The Power of an Emoji 

The Power of an Emoji 

Recently, I wrote a heartfelt message to a troubled friend and sent it via Messenger. Within a few minutes, an angry-face emoji popped up beside my message. Instantly, I felt a sensation in the pit of my stomach that I recognized as anxiety. I immediately thought,...