Embracing Conflict

In thinking of you this week, a specific Bible verse came to my mind.

-Isaiah 30:21-

“Whether you turn to the right or the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

Often, we cannot see the journey we’re on, while we’re taking it. It’s only afterward, looking back, that we see the train of the path. Every good story is about a character who wants something and overcomes conflict to get it. I know you’ve had a lot of stuff happen recently, and I just want to encourage you.

Embrace conflict.

Everything that happens… every swerve, roadblock, broken bridge, speedbump, and pothole are working together to make your story great. One day all will be revealed. Jesus knows where you’re going. Heck – He’s driving!

You are loved, dear girl. I have been and will continue to keep you in my prayers. I can’t wait to see your story unfold! I know it’s gonna be a blockbuster. :)

Five years ago, a girlfriend of mine (who remains a friend to this day) wrote me the words above in a handwritten letter. We met at a prayer group and one night the leader of our group had us all draw random envelopes with individual prayer requests on them. My friend grabbed my envelope. And I’m happy to report that everything I wrote on that same envelope, has come to pass. During that particular season, I was not at peace or happy with my place in life. I was actually miserable and dealing with a ton of conflict. And although I was utterly miserable, I could see how God was using the conflict in my life to push me to where I am now and where I’m going. I’ve kept that same letter and continue to read it whenever I’m having a rough time. It reminds me that if I got through that rough season, I can get through any rough season. While I’m blessed and can’t complain, the past few weeks has had its challenges. But I’m learning to lean into them. I’m moving through my fears. And I’m embracing the conflicts. Because no matter how challenging, good, or bad, things are, it’s all working to make my story great. All will be revealed. One day at a time.

A Year Of Being Ghosted

Ghosting: the practice of ending a personal relationship with someone by suddenly and without explanation withdrawing from all communication. I’ve been ghosted by every guy I’ve met within the past two years. About six to be exact. · The first guy pursued me and then got shady whenever I asked him about what he did for a living and where he lived. When he started dodging and avoiding questions, wouldn’t initiate dates, and slowly stopped keeping in touch with me altogether, eventually, all communication ceased. · The second guy was someone I met through a family member. He was super cool, very smart, handsome, and funny, but didn’t want to be in a relationship and acted like he didn’t want to be seen with me publicly. When we had plans to meet for an outing, he didn’t show up, and then texted me about a week later with an apology. We chilled at my place a few times, had a few phone conversations, and exchanged occasional texts, but eventually he stopped responding to me

Teacher Table Talk: When Parents Attack

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How To Respond To A Nasty Email

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Making Waves