I think anyone who knows me may be surprised that I’m blogging. Me too. When I engage technology, I feel I was born in the wrong century. I love paper. The right pen and a legal pad. Oh, and my paper planner. And, I’m definitely a one-on-one conversation girl. Paper and people- generally one at a time. That’s my wheelhouse. So, here I am. Waaaay out of my comfort zone. So, why in the world am I blogging?
Well, for one, undeniable gentle nudges and big pushes from God over a few years that said that this is part of my faith steps. But also, simply put, I want to Spark What Matters. Specifically, connections that nurture resilience for those living and serving overseas.
spark: to stir to activity, to cause something to start or develop
I want to SPARK OUR MUTUAL LEARNING. I’m humbled by the rich gift of mentors and colleagues in ministry and in my counseling circles that continually shape my mind and heart. By God’s grace, there is new information and incredible wisdom out there about our body, mind, heart, and soul. But we need to sift through that and align it with our worldview- our beliefs about the dignity of people, the reality of God in our lives, and our calling to make Him known in a hurting world.
I know that as I blog, I will keep learning and integrating what I know about people and struggles with faith and mission. Let’s keep learning together. Let’s find and apply best of what we know about mental and emotional health for adults and children to spark learning, healing, growth in ways that give Glory to God and bless others. When we know better, we can love better!
I want to SPARK NOURISHING RELATIONSHIPS. I firmly believe that our learning becomes blessing when it is used to strengthen our relational bonds. Unfortunately, learning can be used to distance also. So, it takes a lot of determination, heart, and fight for sticking together.
As a counselor, my approach to people, their struggles and their well-being is deeply connected to this belief- that we are created relational at the core, with a deep longing and ability for secure connections to God, self, and others. We have all fallen short of that, and we are on a journey of redemption. What would it spark to believe we are all learners and we are all teachers (including kiddos!), and relate to each other in that way? May I see each person that way!
And, let’s break down these false boundaries between us that keep us from blessing one another! Kids can be (and need to be) delighted in by caring adults in addition to their parents. Those in a parenting stage and single people can be kindred spirits. Older and younger generations can offer life to each other. Every person enveloped in true dynamic, growing community. Each with dignity, not one left out. Is that not beautiful?
We have more in common than we realize, and we heal and grow the most in the midst of a dance of attuned relationships. And who we could learn from could delightfully surprise us, if we allow the dance. It’s risky, but worth it.
I want to us to LIGHT THE WORLD together. Truly spark Gospel light. When we are growing in awareness of God and ourselves, we are positioned to offer our best to the world. Our unique gifts together make us a body. Our sparks together make a big, bright, unmistakable light. What do you want to spark in the world? What has God given you to offer to your community to collectively make Him known? Your voice is unique and so is mine, our stories tells His story.
As much as I’m tempted to give in to the lies (too many to list!) threaten to keep me from exposing my in-process thoughts, I’m convinced that this blog is a next faith step for me. So, here I go. Scared, but hopeful, I’m holding out hope for deeper awareness and connections for all of us and our communities. If even one person benefits, that’s icing on the cake!
It’s my intention that each blog post will have something new to consider and will encourage you to share, ask, offer, relate to someone in a new or deeper way. I’d love to hear from you too!
Let’s spark what matters!