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Health Advocacy—How to Speak Up for Someone You Love Nov 30, 2025

Part 2 of a 2-part series on speaking up for yourself and the people you love

It started with a hospital tray.

My ex-husband has a rare genetic condition called MCAD. His body doesn’t process fat for energy like most people, so he requires a strict...

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Speak Up: Why Self-Advocacy Matters More Than Ever Nov 23, 2025

Part 1 of a 2-part series on speaking up for yourself and the people you love

Self-advocacy isn’t always loud. It isn’t always polished. And it isn’t always easy.
But in a world where it’s all too common to shrink yourself to avoid conflict, learning...

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Expressing Gratitude Before It’s Too Late Nov 16, 2025

We were crawling up the mountain pass in a snowstorm, chains rattling in the trunk and nerves rattling in my chest. The trip wasn’t optional—we had a medical appointment in San Francisco that couldn’t wait. My hands were freezing, and the gloves I br...

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Communication in Marriage: Why Listening Matters Most Nov 09, 2025

When I served as a pastor, I had an expectation: before officiating a wedding, the couple had to meet with me three times.

It’s a common expectation in many churches, but for me, it wasn’t about checking a box. It was about helping them build someth...

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Starting Where They Are: Bridging Gaps in Holiday Conversations Dec 15, 2024

Here’s the scene: Kitchen, Anywhere USA.

“Let me DO something!” she exclaimed. “I can help!” Her determined 81-year-old self insisted.

“Mom, I can’t even count how many of these gatherings you’ve hosted. Go sit down!” her daughter replied, equal pa...

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"You Don’t Listen…” Dec 08, 2024

“You don’t listen.” Ouch. Hearing this can sting. If these words sound familiar, you’re not alone. Many of us have experienced this moment, and while it can feel uncomfortable, it’s an opportunity to reflect and improve. Listening, when done well, ca...

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