Podcasts about centering

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Latest podcast episodes about centering

This is How We Create
98. How to Create a Creative Business with Purpose and Intent: Lessons from Ceramicist Sherrod Faulks

This is How We Create

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2024 49:11


On today's episode, we sit down with Sherrod Faulks, founder of Deep Black Ceramics. From tech screens to pottery wheels, Faulks shares his remarkable transition from UX design to establishing his ceramics brand. We explore how authenticity shapes his creative process, from custom glaze formulation to collection development. Faulks discusses finding creative courage through his partner's support and how his background in user experience informs his artistic vision. Through our conversation, he reveals how each ceramic piece becomes part of a larger narrative, creating distinct eras within his work. Join us for an intimate look at reinvention, artistic integrity, and the transformative power of following your passion. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts. Key Takeaways: Authenticity is the secret to standing out in a crowded creative landscape. Centering oneself is crucial for producing your best, most meaningful work. Building a cohesive brand identity and infusing personal emotions into your creations can leave a lasting impact. Embrace your unique vision and don't be afraid to be bold and take creative risks. Conceptualizing collections and eras can be powerful for creative projects. Create work that brings joy and pleasure to yourself and others. Understand the deeper "why" behind your creations to align with your values. Custom design and formulate glazes to produce unique, beautiful pieces. Discover your passion and create meaningful work that reflects who you are. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Sherrod Faulks and His Journey 04:45 The Influence of Cooking on Sherrod's Life 10:20 The Evolution of Slice and Tort 13:11 The Birth of Deep Black 16:59 The Connection Between Clay and Self-Discovery 21:45 Creating a Centered Environment for Creativity 25:01 The Art of Collections in Clay 32:37 Finding Authenticity and Inspiration 39:14 Designing with Purpose and Emotion 45:51 Future Endeavors and Creative Visibility 52:47 - Conclusion and Sherrod's Parting Thoughts CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:Discover more of Sherrod Faulk's work: deepblack.shopShop Deep Black: https://deepblack.shop/  KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:Website: martineseverin.comInstagram: @martine.severinFollow This Is How We Create: thisishowwecreate_Subscribe to our Newsletter: Martine's Substack CREDITS:This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Episode research by Braila West.

MHT Seminary Sermons & Podcasts
Sermon: The Liturgical Year Centering Christ, by Rev. Tobias Bayer

MHT Seminary Sermons & Podcasts

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2024 11:39


Sermon delivered on the First Sunday of Advent in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, by Rev. Tobias Bayer. Epistle: Rom. 13, 11-14; Gospel: St. Luke 21, 25-33.

Downtown Cornerstone Church
Re-Centering Our Hearts on God

Downtown Cornerstone Church

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2024 50:50


Today we continue our series in the Gospel of Luke, one of four eyewitness accounts of Jesus' words and works. In them we learn of his life, death, and resurrection to rescue a people of his own from among the nations—even us. Today, we conclude chapter 9 with four scenes tied together by the ugly thread of self-regard. Through them, Jesus calls us to re-center our hearts on God.

House of David Ministries
The Mystery of The Rapture |S5:E11|

House of David Ministries

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2024 36:13


In this closing episode of season five of the House of David podcast, Gabi and Pastor Eric explore the mystery of the Rapture, derived from the Latin rapio and Greek harpazō, meaning "to catch up" or "to take away." Centering on passages like 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 and 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, Pastor Eric explains the Rapture as a sudden, transformative event where believers, living and dead, are "caught up" to meet Christ. While its timing—pre-, mid-, or post-tribulation—is debated, Pastor Eric supports a pre-tribulation view, citing verses like Revelation 3:10 and Luke 21:36, which imply believers will escape God's judgment. He distinguishes the "trumpet of God" from Revelation's judgment trumpets, linking it to the redemptive shofar. The Shofar, associated with redemption and God's covenant, stands in contrast to the trumpets of judgment in Revelation, suggesting that the Rapture may be a redemptive call rather than a battle cry. Ultimately, the key takeaway is the importance of watching and being prepared for Christ's return, as the exact timing of the Rapture is unknown but imminent.

The ThinkOrphan Podcast
Change Management and Community Transformation with Dr. Casey Duthiers

The ThinkOrphan Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2024 54:59 Transcription Available


The common adage "when you know better, you do better" makes sense. It also indicates that there is a need to transform what it is that we've been doing. When nonprofits around the world, including those working in Christian development and justice, recognize the need for organizational shifts, they may undertake the years-long process of change management. Perhaps your organization has gone through this (or perhaps it needs to!) To help us understand what change management looks like and what it says for organizations pursuing transformational development models, we have Dr. Casey Duthiers joining the show. Casey is the Director of Training and Development at Resilient Communities Center where their team supports practitioners around the world to improve their practice and increase their impact through intentional, Christ-centered professional development for development practitioners. She talks with Brandon Stiver about change management, short term missions and what it looks like to follow Jesus to the margins. Glad to have you join! Podcast Sponsor The Resilient Communities Center helps you become all God intended for you to be through training and coaching within a community. Check Out All The Offerings from the Resilient Communities Center Resources and Links from the show Integral Mission and Decolonizing Theology with Dr. Ruth Padilla DeBorst When Collaboration Helps Families with Dr. Brian Fikkert and Gabriel Walder Free Resources from Resilient Communities Center Conversation Notes The persistence of intractable poverty and examining the roots of it all Valuing Catholic social teaching as a theological basis for the work that we do Following Jesus to the margins of society and serving there What does it look like to change from a simple charity model to an organization that is anchored in a transformational development approach The key drivers that lead to organizations wanting to change The constraints of a shrinking donor base for nonprofits and how that can actually drive us towards better work Centering short term missions within long term relationships The need for continuing education for community development practitioners Relationships are key in every way when it comes to justice work   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License  

The Embodiment Podcast
652. How to Coach with The Body for Experienced Coaches - with Mark Walsh

The Embodiment Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2024 27:17


     *Get $100 OFF https://embodimentunlimited.com/cec/ with code CEC100PODCAST*      In this solo episode Mark condenses 20 years of embodiment coaching experience into 20 minutes. He covers the following topics: Clear definitions Avoiding hippie language  Self-awareness  Our own practices  Centring  Practicing a lot (face to face)  The cultural side  PPP  Rhythm  Trauma awareness Bonus: Mistakes to avoid. A real condensation of Mark's life's work. -----------------------------------------     Get a free copy of Mark's latest eBook for coaches (12 tools) at this link: https://embodimentunlimited.com/coachingpodcast     Join Mark for in-person workshops – https://embodimentunlimited.com/events-calendar/?utm_source=TEP&utm_medium=Description&utm_campaign=Events    Join free coaching demos sessions with Mark – https://embodimentunlimited.com/free-coaching-with-mark/?utm_source=TEP&utm_medium=Description&utm_campaign=Demo    Find Mark Walsh on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/warkmalsh/

Best of Ourselves Podcast
BOO447 – Encore – Centering v Reacting

Best of Ourselves Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2024 5:00


Choosing our response versus reacting.  What practices invite you to be fully present and grounded? Resources Wendy Palmer, Leadership Embodiment The post BOO447 – Encore – Centering v Reacting appeared first on Marcia Hyatt.

Angela Watson's Truth for Teachers
EP315 Humans Who Teach: A guide for centering love, justice, and liberation in schools (with Shamari Reid)

Angela Watson's Truth for Teachers

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 24, 2024 56:53


In this last episode of 2024, I want to leave you with a powerful conversation to marinate on deeply. I'm talking with Dr. Shamari Reid, an assistant professor of justice and belonging in education at New York University. He has taught Spanish, English as a new language, and ELA at the elementary, secondary, and post-secondary levels in Oklahoma, New York, Uruguay, and Spain.  Shamari shares the journey from seeing himself as a “teacher superhero” to understanding he's a human who teaches. Like many of us, Shamari once believed that it was his job to save his students and fix systemic issues like racism and classism through sheer hard work. That mindset led him to overwork himself until he burned out completely, even blacking out while driving from exhaustion.  During his recovery, Shamari came across Toni Morrison's concept of self-regard, which caused him to rethink his identity and realize that he was more than just a teacher. He started to see the importance of recognizing his humanity and taking care of his needs outside of the classroom. I could relate deeply to Shamari's experience. As women, especially those of us in nurturing roles, we often feel pressure to put our personal needs last. In this conversation, we unpack how different groups, like Black male educators, face unique pressures. Shamari shares the unrealistic expectations placed on him, particularly being seen as a relatable savior for students facing discipline issues. Together, we explore how centering love in education—nurturing both students' and our own emotional and spiritual growth—can create a more just and equitable learning environment. It takes courage to break away from fear-based, status quo practices and lead with love, but it's necessary. We talk about how teachers can overcome common fears like making mistakes, not being perfect, or neglecting academics. Shamari shares practical steps for navigating these challenges, including articulating your vision, planning backwards, and, most importantly, giving yourself grace. At the heart of this conversation is a reminder: being human is enough. We don't need to earn our worth by overworking or sacrificing our boundaries. It's okay to say no, set limits, and take care of yourself. By embracing our humanity, we invite love into our classrooms and can overcome obstacles together.  This is an honest, heartfelt conversation about what it really means to teach with love and why it's crucial to prioritize our well-being. I hope it leaves you feeling inspired and reminded that you are enough—just as you are.  I'll be back with more episodes for you in the new year. Until then, be well, my friends, and keeping choosing love over fear.

Gospel Spice
Harvest and gratitude from Mount Sinai to the Upper Room | Pentecost & Shavuot

Gospel Spice

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2024 46:53


Stephanie invites you today to spice up your faith by exploring unexpected connections between two great feasts. She dives deep into the intertwined celebrations of Pentecost in the Christian tradition, and Shavuot in the Jewish faith. Both festivals are celebrated 50 days post-Easter and Passover respectively, and invite us to reconnect with themes of gratitude, thanksgiving, and divine revelation. Through the enduring cycles of joy, preparation, and revelation, both Shavuot and Pentecost call believers into a deeper understanding of divine grace and the cyclical journey of faith. Shavuot, or the Feast of Weeks, concludes a significant period of anticipation following Passover. Observers commemorate this festival by reading the Ten Commandments and partaking in the harvest of wheat, lauded as the superior grain. Symbolically, Shavuot represents the culmination of the spring feasts, and includes the unique preparation of two loaves of leavened wheat bread, symbolizing humanity's sinful nature. Celebrated with offerings, figs, olive oil, and more, Shavuot is a joyous occasion steeped in history and spirituality. In the Christian liturgical calendar, Pentecost, celebrated on June 8, 2025, mirrors Shavuot's setting—50 days after the major religious observances of Easter and Passover. It marks the momentous occasion when the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus's followers, empowering us to spread the gospel. God's presence attributes joy and delight to Pentecost, making it a critical event that signifies the birth of the church and believers' empowerment. Stephanie discusses these celebrations as a "rehearsal dinner" for the future wedding banquet, the final joyous gathering in Christ's return. This celebration encapsulates both preparation and revelation, drawing a parallel to the Israelites' three days of preparation to receive the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai. The festival's ladder-shaped challah symbolizes Moses' ascent to receive the Law, while its inclusion of yeast signifies the sinful nature that, through divine grace, will be fully redeemed. Central to both Shavuot and Pentecost, is the theme of harvest. The gathering of wheat represents the process of evangelism. As believers are sanctified through trials, they are refined wheat, ready for offering and transforming into the spiritual bread of life. In the same vein, Pentecost is a reminder of the Great Commission—empowering believers to go forth and harvest souls for the kingdom of God. Christ embodies the fulfillment of Shavuot. Just as Shavuot celebrates God's revelation to Moses, Pentecost commemorates the Holy Spirit's descension, ushering a new covenant. This underscores a deeper spiritual truth: the festival of Shavuot rehearses the believers' ultimate communion with God, transcending into a season of salvation heralded by Jesus' coming. Stephanie highlights a fascinating contrast between Jewish and Western traditions: the Jewish cyclical view of time versus the Western linear perspective. Shavuot, celebrated from sundown on June 1 to nightfall on June 3, 2025, emphasizes the end of the spring harvest—a marker in the cyclical liturgical calendar that heralds a pause until the fall feasts. Meanwhile, the Western tradition tends to perceive time as linear, steadily moving towards a future point. This cyclical nature of the Jewish liturgical calendar offers hope and progress, especially during periods that may seem monotonous. After the spring feasts conclude, the Jewish calendar enters a four-month period without festive observances until Rosh Hashanah. Stephanie encourages believers to view these "ordinary" times as infused with the joy and anticipation of Shavuot and Pentecost, reflecting the Christian longing between Christ's first and second comings. This period is an invitation to embody thankfulness, evangelism, and charity, preparing for the ultimate harvest in the final gathering. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on Holy Day traditions in upcoming episodes of Gospel Spice! Don't forget to check out our essential workbook to accompany this study. Stephanie personally created the content to invite you deeper into study. Don't miss out! It's at https://www.gospelspice.com/store We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   What matters to us here at Gospel Spice is to create a place where people who seek deeper intimacy with Jesus, will find Him. We want a warm, welcoming atmosphere to journey ever deeper into the heart of God. We believe it is the ultimate calling of the Christian life, and I like to summarize it with my motto, God's glory, our delight. That is why we invite you to “taste and see” that the Lord is good. And we have been doing this every day since 2019. We need YOU to keep Gospel Spice alive and growing.   Financially speaking, we rely on people who understand this vision and who understand that we cannot function without a minimum budget. We run an extremely tight budget. For example, I work full time but don't draw a salary. And yet, we have expenses – for example, the equipment and technology we use, and also the wonderfully gifted staff who make it possible to deliver high quality content all around the globe, and then the necessary occasional promotional budget to make it possible to be discovered by those who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel of Jesus Christ. We need your help.   So we would love for you to consider if this ministry is blessing you to pay gospel spice forward. You can partner with us monthly with 10, 25, 50, 100, a month, or you can make one donation, once. And because we are a register nonprofit organization in the United States under the status of a 501c3 charity, it means that the amount that you pay to gospel spice is fully tax deductible. Completely tax deductible. So you're even saving money as you invest in gospel spice ministries. It is an eternal investment, and we are very grateful to you for it. Now it's very important to us that we give back as much as possible from what you give us. And so we commit to giving the majority of what we receive, once all of our administrative costs are paid, to organizations that fight human trafficking on the front line. There are many worthwhile causes in the world, so why this one? Because I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – maybe because I have never been its victim myself, so I feel a responsibility to help those less fortunate than me. Also, because Jesus tells us to love our neighbor. Human trafficking is modern day slavery, and that is something that revolts the heart of God. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.   So, we do some due diligence. We pick organizations who have proven themselves trustworthy of our support. And then we give money to these Christians organizations that fight human trafficking. So would you consider paying us forward at gospelspice.com/payitforward? Your hard-earned money is always well used at Gospel Spice. Ultimately, you are giving back to the Kingdom, a portion of what Jesus has given you. We are well aware of the privilege to steward your partnership. And my prayer is always that you will find your own life spiced with the gospel as you partner with us to flavor the lives of those around us, near and far, with the spice of the gospel.   Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Gospel Spice
Catching the whimsy of practical Christian living | with Bob Goff

Gospel Spice

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2024 44:14


Stephanie converses with the ever-engaging Bob Goff today. Known for his ability to intertwine whimsy with profound spiritual truths, Bob challenges us to take active, heartfelt actions instead of merely understanding faith on an intellectual level. Bob's message is simple: live an actionable, authentic faith filled with whimsy and boundless love. His new book "Catching Whimsy" encapsulates this dynamic approach, prompting us to explore faith with fresh eyes and a vibrant spirit. Quiet, modest acts of service hold immense power, says Bob. In a world often driven by recognition, he reminds us that God appreciates small beginnings and gradual growth. This applies to everything - our faith, relationships, and professional commitments. His emphasis on gentleness and patience serves as a reminder that impactful change often starts with unassuming, everyday actions. "Catching Whimsy," the title of Goff's new book, suggests that whimsy surpasses mere superficial happiness. It is a strategic, intentional approach towards life and faith that echoes childlike simplicity and wonder. Bob illustrates whimsy using metaphors like catching bubbles, tying it back to a pure form of faith that urges us to perceive the world uniquely. Bob Goff advocates for the practice of transitioning from "Bible study" to "Bible doing," urging us to embody our faith through deliberate actions. Central to his message are calls for service to others, such as feeding the hungry and welcoming strangers. Sharing experiences from teaching at San Quentin penitentiary, Bob also reflects on the deep humility demonstrated by the inmates—a quality that influences his own faith journey. His stories underscore the value of surrounding oneself with individuals who truly embody empathy and authentic faith. This principle extends to difficult situations where empathetic communication is key. Bob emphasizes the importance of steering clear from clichéd responses, replacing them with deeper, meaningful connections. Bob reframes suffering by mentioning the teachings of Paul and James, highlighting that through adversity, endurance and character are built, eventually leading to hope. This perspective encourages a focus on personal growth rather than dwelling in arguments or seeking validation. Authenticity is paramount in our relationship with God. He encourages believers to present their true selves, inclusive of doubts and questions. This authenticity is also about running our own race and allowing others to do the same, all while fostering genuine conversations with God - simple, everyday conversations flavored with the "salt" of prayer. For those inspired by his words, the challenge is set—embrace whimsy, embark on a journey of authentic living, and become the "convincing proof" of a lively, active faith. MORE ABOUT BOB GOFF BOB GOFF is the New York Times bestselling author of Love Does; Everybody, Always; Dream Big; Undistracted; Live in Grace, Walk in Love; and Love Does for Kids. He's a lover of balloons, cake pops, and helping people pursue their big dreams. Bob's greatest ambitions in life are to love others, do stuff, and most importantly, to hold hands with his wife, Sweet Maria, and spend time with their amazing family. For more, check out BobGoff.com and LoveDoes.org. MORE ABOUT “CATCHING WHIMSY” DISCOVER JOY AND INSPIRATION FROM NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR BOB GOFF EMBRACE THE ADVENTURE OF LIFE AND FAITH IN CATCHING WHIMSY—A 365-DAY JOURNEY TO CURIOSITY AND DELIGHT Dive into the enchanting world of Catching Whimsy: 365 Days of Possibility, where beloved bestselling author Bob Goff invites readers on a 365-day adventure that reawakens curiosity and joy in everyday life. With his signature charm and captivating anecdotes, Goff artfully combines faith with whimsy, offering daily reflections that inspire and uplift readers. Each entry is designed to be a gentle tap on the shoulder, inviting you not only to recognize God's immense love for you but also to embrace the thrilling possibilities life has to offer. In Catching Whimsy, Goff leads you away from the mundane cycles of planning and uncertainty into a space brimming with delight and spontaneity. Whether you're grappling with life's uncertainties or simply seeking a spark of joy, this devotional serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to a more engaged and meaningful existence. Goff's delightful storytelling is interwoven with profound insights, making spiritual growth accessible and relatable, a true gift for anyone seeking a deeper connection with God. This is more than just a devotional; it's a joyful celebration of life, spirituality, and the endless journeys of the heart. Each day presents a new opportunity to revel in the adventure of faith and to foster an expectant heart, ready to embrace the beautiful complexities of life. Let the world know about Catching Whimsy; it's a not-to-be-missed read for anyone craving connection, inspiration, and a little sprinkle of whimsy in their lives! We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   We have a high-quality, deeply inspiring, truly original Advent devotional for you! Stephanie created this original video series for YOUR ADVENT season! It will draw you closer to Christ, and deeper into the presence of God.  It is comprised of 12 videos leading up to Christmas, and a gorgeous devotional PDF to accompany it. You will not want to miss out! Go to gospelspice.com/advent to download your FREE one-day sample, and/or purchase the Gospel Spice Advent devotional at an amazing price. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Gospel Spice
Better than chocolate | Heaven will be intoxicatingly delightful.

Gospel Spice

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2024 58:12


Within the context of our "Come to the Table" series, I invite you to join me and spend time on an overlooked but essential event in the Christian liturgical calendar today, tucked between Easter and Pentecost. Ascension has become one of my most cherished treasures, because it speaks of a hope that is certain, and a future that is glorious. First, Ascension means that a human body is present in the Throne Room of God right now – that is Jesus Christ today. His incarnation made Jesus a member of humanity; His Ascension made His membership permanent. I cannot wrap my head around this, but one thing I can do is fall on my face to worship in awe and wonder. The corollary to Ascension, Pentecost, means that the Spirit of God is present in human flesh right now – that is you and me today. Ascension and Pentecost tell us that Christ reconciles God to man in His own body. He declares at Pentecost our ultimate reality: “on earth as it is in heaven!” He declares at Ascension the corollary, “in heaven as it is on earth!” Just as He was God on earth, He is now human in heaven. Just as He prayed as God on earth for us, He prays now as our Great High Priest in heaven for us. Ascension and Pentecost are Jacob's ladder, a two-way relationship of body and spirit, earth and heaven, reconciled in One. Upon His ascension, Jesus, in His glorified human body, received from the Father the Holy Spirit, whom He sent to us to inhabit our own not-yet-glorified bodies. Heaven will be intoxicatingly delightful. So unbearable for our current bodies, in fact, that we will be given brand new, glorified bodies – like Christ's – so that we can withstand the intensity of delight and pleasure that awaits us. Our heavenly bodies will be like a chocolate masterpiece to our current cocoa-pod bodies: similar, but unimaginably more glorious. From starter seed to perfected fruit. We have yet to experience heavenly chocolate, so we struggle to see its connection to our humble cocoa pod-like current body. It is ultimately a matter of time. We are the “body of Christ” – it means in some real way we are in the Throne Room with Him already. It is ultimately a matter of space. Good thing heaven is beyond time and space. Jesus described His ascension to Mary Magdalene as His going “to my Father and your Father; to my God and your God.” (John 20:17). This is astounding. Jesus is irreversibly identifying with us: His Father is our Father; His God is our God. It means, in essence, that He represents God to man, and man to God: this is the role of the Great High Priest. Had Jesus not ascended to heaven, he could not officiate as our Great High Priest right now, fulfilling at least three primary missions for the church age: interceding for us, teaching us to pray, and making things above real for us. Let's unpack, seeking continually the things that are above. First, Jesus is interceding for you right now. In John 17, considered by many as the “Holy of Holies” of the New Testament, He gives us a glimpse into His current prayer on our behalf. If you want to know how Jesus is praying for you right now, read John 17 again. And again. Jesus prays that we be one with Him as He is one with the Father. Unity with Christ means unity of purpose and life – living like He lives, praying like He prays and, one day, ascending like He ascended. His present intercession provides the continued effectiveness of His redemptive mission. He maintains His victory by the word of His mouth – in prayer to the Father even now. He bears forth into each one of us, members of His body, the deliverance He accomplished on the cross. He manifests the victory He obtained. His unceasing intercession gives our prayers a power we never had before. Which means, secondly, that Jesus teaches us to pray. He speaks through our prayers; we become the vessels to speak on earth His intercession in heaven, by the Holy Spirit. In Him we join the never-ceasing, never-failing prayer-conversation constantly weaving before the Father. In other words, what He prays passes through us, and what we pray passes through Him. Mind-boggling. And thirdly, He makes it all real to us in experience. His birth, life, death, and resurrection secured our destiny and effected our reconciliation with God. And now He wields His limitless intercessory power to make this reconciliation real and personal to each one of us, members of His body. He is the head, we the body: which means we cannot be separated from Him, since death is abolished. Ascension teaches this: Where He goes, we go; where He is, we are; that is heaven. Pentecost teaches this: where we go, He goes; where we are, He is: on earth, as it is in heaven. Just as Acts 1:6-11 describes Ascension from Earth's perspective, Daniel 7:13-14 describes it from Heaven's perspective: “Behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him.” Jesus is this Son of Man, and He is now back in the Throne Room, as the reference to the cloud makes clear. “To him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him.” Daniel describes what Jesus is doing right now, then ends with the future that awaits us: “his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.” Jesus, the Son of Man who identifies with humanity in His divinity, has carved a trajectory from the Incarnation to the Ascension that leads to His glory and our destiny in Him. No wonder “Son of Man” was one of Jesus' favorite titles for Himself. Speaking of what awaits us, let us keep on seeking the things that are above. Each year on Yom Kippur, the Great High Priest would atone for his people and, upon leaving the Holy of Holies to reenter the world, he would bring out with him a blessing for his people. Jesus will come back the same way He left, once His John 17 work of intercession in the Throne Room is accomplished. And He will bring out with Him at least three blessings. The first blessing is ours already: His Holy Spirit becomes ours and brings spiritual gifts of His own, which Paul links directly to Ascension (see Ephesians 4:8-10). Second, Jesus inaugurated a reign that had never been exercised thus before. We are coheirs with Him, training today for reigning tomorrow in the dominion of His Kingdom. Because human flesh sits enthroned in heaven, we will reign with Him. Thirdly, a wedding feast awaits us. The covenantal words Jesus shares on that final night are the verbatim words of a Jewish bridegroom to his bride during a traditional betrothal ceremony. “I am preparing a place for you, and I will come back so that you may be where I am.” (John 14:1-4). Jesus is the Bridegroom poised to come back to fetch His bride, bringing heaven to earth for her. We the bride, the church universal, His body, are feast-bound. No wonder heaven will be intoxicatingly delightful. In French, my native tongue, the word “delight” is délice. But wait; this word délice means something else, too: it means “delicious.” In French, there is no difference between delight and deliciousness. While it might explain much of our French hedonism, it tells me this, too: God is both delightful and delicious. This will make the wedding feast of heaven the climax of delicious delightfulness. Until then, Jesus invites us to speak His words of intercession from heaven to earth. That, indeed, is the glory of Ascension this side of creation. You can't pray in His name unless you live in His name, too. Ascension and Pentecost together tell us it is now possible: we no longer live, but Christ lives in us. Saint Augustine would agree. He capped his Ascension homily thus: “While in heaven Christ is also with us; and we while on earth are with him. He is here with us by his divinity, his power and his love. We cannot be in heaven, as he is on earth, by divinity, but in him, we can be there by love.” Indeed, and Amen." Don't forget to check out our essential workbook to accompany this study. Stephanie personally created the content to invite you deeper into study. Don't miss out! It's at https://www.gospelspice.com/store We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   Bonjour! Gospel Spice exists to inspire our generation to delight in God. We do this through the podcast, online Bible studies, leadership trainings, and more. We want to serve Christ-followers who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel. We want to love God, because He first loved us. We want to experience the fullness of life with Him—and not be content with stale, boring, leftover faith. Jesus tells us that the most important thing is to love the Lord our God, so we take Him seriously. He adds that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. Now, there are many ways to do that, but I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – it is modern day slavery, and it revolts the heart of God. And so, they are our particular neighbors here at Gospel Spice. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.   Now we would love to invite you to join the team in one of three ways: 1, pray Gospel Spice forward – pray for our guests, our listeners and participants, and for us too! 2, play Gospel Spice forward by telling your friends about us, and by please leaving positive reviews and comments on your podcast listening app; and 3rd, PAY GospelSpice forward. Less than 1% of our listeners are supporting us financially. We need your help! Please pay Gospel Spice forward today. It can be a one-time donation, or a monthly one, for the amount of your choice. Your donation is fully tax-deductible in the US. Plus, once we cover our costs, a significant portion of your donation will be given back to Christian organizations that fight human trafficking, and that we vet thoroughly. So, you can know that every dime you give is used for the Kingdom of God. Every little bit helps. So, be part of the spice of the gospel by becoming a financial partner today! Bonjour! Gospel Spice exists to inspire our generation to delight in God. We do this through the podcast, online Bible studies, leadership trainings, and more. We want to serve Christ-followers who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel. We want to love God, because He first loved us. We want to experience the fullness of life with Him—and not be content with stale, boring, leftover faith. Jesus tells us that the most important thing is to love the Lord our God, so we take Him seriously. He adds that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. Now, there are many ways to do that, but I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – it is modern day slavery, and it revolts the heart of God. And so, they are our particular neighbors here at Gospel Spice. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.   Now we would love to invite you to join the team in one of three ways: 1, pray Gospel Spice forward – pray for our guests, our listeners and participants, and for us too! 2, play Gospel Spice forward by telling your friends about us, and by please leaving positive reviews and comments on your podcast listening app; and 3rd, PAY GospelSpice forward. Less than 1% of our listeners are supporting us financially. We need your help! Please pay Gospel Spice forward today. It can be a one-time donation, or a monthly one, for the amount of your choice. Your donation is fully tax-deductible in the US. Plus, once we cover our costs, a significant portion of your donation will be given back to Christian organizations that fight human trafficking, and that we vet thoroughly. So, you can know that every dime you give is used for the Kingdom of God. Every little bit helps. So, be part of the spice of the gospel by becoming a financial partner today! Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Yoga Teacher Resource Podcast
How To Align Your Goals with Your Values (& Why It Matters)

Yoga Teacher Resource Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2024 25:54


Centering your values when you set goals can help you create a sustainable, inspiring business. In this episode, you'll hear some of the structures I use personally to move forward in my business without compromising my principles.    Episode Highlights:  03:01 Finding the Sweet Spot: Logic & Intuition in Goal Setting 06:03 Why Knowing Your Values is Key for Choosing the right Goals 7:01 Values Check In Ritual 11:53 Goal Setting Step-by-step 12:33 Stuck in a Rut? Try This Unexpected Brainstorming Trick 14:15 From Dream to Reality: Scheduling Your Goals for Success 17:39 Goal-Setting Inspiration: Real-World Examples to Get You Started 24:19 How to Evaluate & Refine Your Goals   Links & Resources   Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group  Sign up for Mado's email list and get a free download of 100 yoga class themes   Book Recommendations The Artist's Way The 12 Week Year   Tag @yoga.teacher.resource on Instagram to celebrate your accomplishments!

Spiral Deeper
37. DISRUPTING THROUGH COMPASSION ~ Brooke Baldwin on Centering into Ourselves, Motherhood, and Women's Circles

Spiral Deeper

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2024 90:12


In this episode, our host Gaby Azorsky speaks with Brooke Baldwin. Brooke (she/her) is a dedicated birth worker, guide, and advocate for women in all stages of creation—whether they are birthing life, a business, or their own inner vitality. With a deep-rooted belief that each woman holds the power to transform her life from within, Brooke's mission is to walk alongside women as they navigate their unique paths, offering holistic support through life's transitions. She offers one-on-one mentorship, women's circles and birth doula support. She is the host of The Feminine Profiles podcast. In our episode today, we talk about being a new mama, her experience growing up through the lens of her Human Design and Astrology chart and how those previous judgements and angers have reframed into how she creates change today, patience, asking for help, the birth portal, her birth story and the initiation into Motherhood, her transition from working in tech to holding women's circles and embodying the role of a doula, her podcast - The Feminine Profiles, reflection circle, social media, and Human Design. Thank you Brooke! CODE SPIRALOFFLOWERS FOR 20% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH IN THE FLOWER PORTAL ROOT TO CROWN WAITLIST FOR SPRING COHORT SIGN UP FOR GABY'S NEWSLETTER Connect ~ With our guest Brooke| Website and IG @brookemackenzie____ Brooke's Podcast | The Feminine Profiles Listen to Gaby on The Feminine Profile's Podcast With our host Gaby Azorsky | Website and IG @gaby.azorsky With Spiral Deeper | Website and IG @spiral.deeper Partners ~ Thank you to our partners! Moon Juice - Code ‘GABY.AZORSKY' Activist Manuka Honey - Code ‘GABY15' The Retreat Newspaper - Code ‘GABY100' for your first issue free Music by Gaby's incredible partner, Connor Hayes. Spiral Deeper Icon by Kami Marchand. If you would like to advertise on Spiral Deeper and collaborate, please email gabyazorsky@gmail.com for packages and information. Please rate, review, and subscribe wherever you listen ~ it means so much. Thank you for your support!

Imperfect Parenting
Rooted and Real: Centering Family Imperfectly

Imperfect Parenting

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2024 16:31


When the world is turning upside down and back, the best thing we can do is re-center, in the ways that are actually possible for each of us.As a couple.With our kids.For yourself:).That's this week and prepping for the holidays.______________________________________________________________Got Fertility stuff going on?  Or, know someone who does?I go live on Youtube weekdays at 10AM PST andTuesdays is Q and A day and is at different times each week:).Search "Coach Ariel Andersson" and jump into "upcoming" with a notification and see you there:).____________________________________________________Have a beautifully imperfect day:).Ariel (and Mats)Support the showIMPERFECT PARENTING:*Free parenting meditation*https://mailchi.mp/965b821ebde2/imperfectparentingfreeminimeditation1 Free parent de-stress tips:http://bit.ly/34TmARwInstagram: @Ip_parenting Tik tok @imperfectparentingariel Website:https://imperfectparenting.netWrite me: Ariel@imperfectparenting.net______ WORKING WITH FERTILITY?Join our private Fertility Coaching Circle https://mailchi.mp/6bf27333a04d/eyl88itb3g-fertility-inner-circle-ariel-green-andersson FREE Fertility Meditation: https://mailchi.mp/00ddad27abb2/freefertilitymeditation223Instagram and Tik tok: @arielgreenanderssonWrite: Ariel@agreenbalancedlife.com*Looking to get pregnant over 40? https://bit.ly/2ZbPSdk *Experienced pregnancy loss? I have a...

Gospel Spice
To gaze upon God | with Samuel Parkison

Gospel Spice

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2024 56:01


Stephanie welcomes Sam Parkison to takes us on a delightful journey to understand the deep-seated human desire to see God. Through the prism of his book, To Gaze Upon God, he uncovers the theological concepts underpinning this yearning, drawing insights from historical biblical theology. All creatures have an intrinsic desire to see and know God. This aligns with Augustine's famous proclamation that our hearts remain restless until they rest in God. Influenced by thinkers like Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas, John Owen, Jonathan Edwards and C.S. Lewis, Parkison weaves Christian hedonism with the Westminster Shorter Catechism's guiding principle: to glorify and enjoy God. This longing is not an optional subplot of life but the ultimate narrative arc for all believers. The longing to delight in God's glory is rooted in Scriptural truth, biblical tradition, and ecclesiastical legacy. As we, contemporary Christians, grapple with modern challenges, we need to remember that our longing to see God will guide us towards spiritual growth and fulfillment in Christ. In Christ, our beatification transforms human potential into a participation in God's ultimate happiness, a transformative process vividly portrayed through Scripture and upheld by centuries of theological reflection. The doctrine of the beatific vision is the pinnacle experience of heaven—way beyond simply reuniting with loved ones, or enjoying a resurrected physical body. The beatific vision is the blessed sight of God. Parkison traces this understanding back to church fathers like Augustine and illustrates how this longing is fulfilled in direct communion with the divine. The conversation takes us into the historical nuance of the Reformation's principle of Sola Scriptura. Parkison clarifies that this doctrine does not reject all tradition; instead, it asserts Scripture as the sole infallible authority. The Bible acknowledges other authorities, like pastoral guidance and civil responsibilities (Romans 13). Stephanie and Sam examine how some modern Protestants inadvertently embrace Enlightenment thinking by disregarding the valuable insights of historical tradition, through a truncated adherence to Sola Scriptura. Humility is essential for theological exploration. It includes the importance of engaging with historical Christian thinkers across time to inform contemporary faith. This thematic humility acts as a safeguard against heresies, fostering an appreciation for ancient wisdom that can illuminate blind spots in our own era. Paul's admonition to emulate Christ's humility (Philippians 2:5-11) reinforces the call to learn from both Scripture, and seasoned theological voices. One particular discussion point is the mediating role of Christ in the Christian life. Drawing upon passages like Ephesians 1:3-11, Parkison underscores how, through union with Christ, believers partake in spiritual blessings that culminate in the beatific vision. This nuanced theology echoes the insights of thinkers like John Owen (and, probably, Thomas Aquinas), who explore the idea of Christians becoming closer to God through participation in Christ's humanity. The conversation touches upon C.S. Lewis's essay “On Reading Old Books,” which urges believers to draw from the wealth of historical Christian thought. Parkison stresses that overlooking the established theological wisdom of nearly two millennia will handicap personal spiritual growth. The historical perspective enriches our understanding of God's infinite nature, cultivating an endless delight in divine communion. Beyond cultural specificities, Parkison presents the argument that the desire to understand and encounter God transcends temporal and spatial boundaries. This universal longing is mirrored in stories from the biblical canon, from Adam and Eve's Edenic yearning to Moses's Sinai encounter. Biblical narrative consistently draws humanity toward a vision of divine glory. MORE ABOUT “TO GAZE UPON GOD” BY SAMUEL PARKISON Today, the doctrine of the beatific vision has been woefully forgotten within the church and its theology. Yet, throughout history Christians have always held that the blessed hope of heaven lies in seeing and being in the presence of God, of beholding the beatific vision. With lucidity and breadth, Parkison reintroduces the beatific vision and affirms its centrality for the life of the church today. Parkison argues for the beatific vision's biblical foundations and reminds us—through close readings of theologians such as Anselm of Canterbury, Thomas Aquinas, Dante, Gregory Palamas, John Calvin, and Jonathan Edwards—of the doctrine's historical and contemporary significance. The beatific vision is about seeing God, and as Christians have acknowledged across the tradition, seeing God is our ultimate end. Samuel G. Parkison (PhD Midwestern Seminary) is Associate Professor of Theological Studies at Gulf Theological Seminary in the United Arab Emirates. He is the author of several books, including Proclaiming the Triune God: The Doctrine of the Trinity in the Life of the Church (co-author), as well as Thinking Christianly: Bringing Sundry Thoughts Captive to Christ, and Irresistible Beauty: Beholding Triune Glory in the Face of Jesus Christ. We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   We have a high-quality, deeply inspiring, truly original Advent devotional for you! Stephanie created this original video series for YOUR ADVENT season! It will draw you closer to Christ, and deeper into the presence of God.  It is comprised of 12 videos leading up to Christmas, and a gorgeous devotional PDF to accompany it. You will not want to miss out! Go to gospelspice.com/advent to download your FREE one-day sample, and/or purchase the Gospel Spice Advent devotional at an amazing price. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

The Embodiment Podcast
648. Embodiment In The Workplace - with Tami Simon (from TEC)

The Embodiment Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2024 59:05


   In this interview from The Embodiment Conference 2020, Tami Simon will speak about staying grounded in the midst of stress & triggers at work.    Find out more about Tami here: https://www.soundstrue.com/blogs/authors/tami-simon?srsltid=AfmBOoojXqGq3pdilxazXlUZaMppBA0hmWC8oCaVTsoAvnsfN76ftnHp  --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Tami Simon founded Sounds True in 1985 as a multimedia publishing house with a mission to disseminate spiritual wisdom. She has dedicated her life to transformational learning and accelerating spiritual awakening in the world. Tami hosts a popular weekly podcast called Insights at the Edge, where she interviews many of today's leading teachers and luminaries. She lives with her wife, Julie M. Kramer, and their two spoodles, Raspberry and Bula, in Boulder, Colorado. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------     Get coached for free TODAY & in the next couple days at this event: https://embodimentunlimited.com/working-with-the-body/      Get a free copy of Mark's latest eBook for coaches (12 tools) at this link: https://embodimentunlimited.com/coachingpodcast     Join Mark for in-person workshops – https://embodimentunlimited.com/events-calendar/?utm_source=TEP&utm_medium=Description&utm_campaign=Events    Find Mark Walsh on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/warkmalsh/

I’m Just Sayin’ Podcast
S5:E9 "De-Centering Dating"

I’m Just Sayin’ Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2024 51:02


decenter dēˈsen(t)ər/ decentered; decentering; decenters to cause to lose or shift from an established center or focus. especially : to disconnect from practical or theoretical assumptions of origin, priority, or essence.

Higher Education Anti-Racist Teaching (H.E.A.R.T.) Podcast
Centering Equity-Mindedness in Antiracist Teaching (Part 2)

Higher Education Anti-Racist Teaching (H.E.A.R.T.) Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2024 25:36


In this episode, we continue our conversation on equity-mindedness and how it can advance antiracist and equitable teaching in the classroom. Our guests Dr. Pallavi Limaye, Assistant Professor in Residence at the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology at the University of Connecticut, Dr. Saran Stewart, Director of Academic Affairs and Associate Professor of Higher Education and Student Affairs at the University of Connecticut, Dr. Román Liera, Assistant Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership at Montclair State University, and Dr. Becky Norton, Professor in the Science & Mathematics Department at Massachusetts Maritime Academy, share their perspectives on how equity-minded inquiry that can lead to changing teaching practices. We delve into the reality that, just as students, educators themselves can also constantly learn, take in information, and make necessary changes to improve their teaching and ultimately their students' learning outcomes. Yet, such efforts require lots of time and an ecosystem of support. We end with advice from our guests about being courageous, self-reflective, and creative in order to make learning more equitable for students. 

Bevin: A Femme Over 40 and her Friends
186. Melissa Fabello, PhD: Bisexuality, De-Centering Men, Should you get a PhD?

Bevin: A Femme Over 40 and her Friends

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2024 65:48


Melissa is bisexual, sapphic and polyamorous. She is a coach who helps folks align their values and their lives, navigate heartbreak and build relationship skills. We talk about her coming out story. De-centering men. The academic industrial complex and, with her PhD and my JD, whether and how to pursue higher education. Freelance work and whether to take the plunge. Melissa was raised Catholic and has developed a spiritual practice after leaving The Church (TM). Join us! Melissa's website: https://www.melissafabello.com/ Melissa's IG: fyeahmfabello ⁠Patreon.com/fkdp⁠ (you can follow for free and get updates and freebies from me!)⁠ https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bevin⁠ (safe and secure way to buy me a snack!) Venmo: @bevinb Cash App: $BevinBoss Buy my aerobics video! ⁠⁠fatkiddanceparty.com/video4pack⁠⁠ Amazon Wishlist: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1SJCL864DDKEH?ref_=wl_share⁠ Tee shirts: ⁠https://genuinevalentine.com/collections/fat-kid-dance-party ⁠Instagram: @fatkiddanceparty @bevinsparty Work one on one with me: ⁠https://queerfatfemme.com/one-on-one-with-bevin/⁠ You Tube Channel: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/SelfCareParty⁠ Blog: ⁠queerfatfemme.com⁠ Email list: ⁠http://eepurl.com/dyX3db⁠ Threads, Tik Tok, Twitter: @bevinsparty ⁠Facebook.com/bevinsparty⁠ Like/subscribe/review/send a link to a friend! It all helps! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bevin/support

The Dr. Pat Show - Talk Radio to Thrive By!
Using Psychic skills to own your power

The Dr. Pat Show - Talk Radio to Thrive By!

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2024


It is important to maintain your power and equilibrium to get the most out of your intui-tive magic. In order to create intentions with your inner magic you must steer a steady course emotionally even when people and situations around you would knock you off balance There are Intuitive tools which can be especially helpful for maintaining a steady state of being so you can access and enjoy your own magic. Watch https://www.transformationtalkradio.com/watch.html

The Dr. Pat Show - Talk Radio to Thrive By!
Using Psychic skills to own your power

The Dr. Pat Show - Talk Radio to Thrive By!

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2024


It is important to maintain your power and equilibrium to get the most out of your intui-tive magic. In order to create intentions with your inner magic you must steer a steady course emotionally even when people and situations around you would knock you off balance There are Intuitive tools which can be especially helpful for maintaining a steady state of being so you can access and enjoy your own magic. Watch https://www.transformationtalkradio.com/watch.html

Gospel Spice
The battle to embrace gratefulness through hardship | with Rachel Wojo

Gospel Spice

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2024 40:41


Stephanie welcomes Rachel Wojo, who exhibits grace under pressure. Rachel recounts the hardships she's faced, not as a means of lament, but as a powerful testimony to her faith in God. Throughout the years, Rachel has encountered numerous challenges that have tested her faith and resilience. Rather than succumbing, she has chosen to lean into God's strength. From personal hardships like joblessness and financial stress, to navigating the extraordinary pains of watching her daughter slowly lose her life to a rare disease, and the loss of several other key family members, Rachel's story of tenaciously clinging to Christ proves that it is possible to emerge stronger and more faithful. Rachel shares her story of becoming a single mother to a special needs child after discovering her husband's affair, leading her to rely more deeply on her faith. Her eventual remarriage and the birth of five children, along with the devastating loss of her daughter Taylor to a rare neurological condition, illustrate the peaks and valleys of her journey. What happens when God's answer to our prayer is NO? Rachel shares her journey of praying for her daughter Taylor's earthly healing, only to embrace the eventual understanding that Taylor's true healing would come in heaven. This acceptance of God's broader plan beyond immediate desires offers a deeper understanding and trust in His divine wisdom. Rachel's book, "Desperate Prayers," is a source of comfort and guidance for those struggling with faith and prayer life. Her stories, drawn from personal pain and loss, illustrate the profound transformation that can come from earnest, desperate prayers and a heartfelt surrender to God. Rachel offers vivid examples of the importance of gratitude. She shares how she has learned to recognize "God moments"—serendipitous events that, when noticed, reveal God's subtle presence and guidance in our daily lives. She recalls pivotal moments where choosing to focus on small blessings, such as "noticing the sunshine through the window," helped her navigate through immense grief and trials. This perspective shift, seeing God's work in the gentle, everyday occurrences, has been transformative for her. Rachel reflects on her journey of enduring hardship and witnessing God's hand in the small moments of life. When reflecting on the journey of a faithful servant, it's the moments of hardship and perseverance that vividly stand out. Rachel explores the idea of discovering gratefulness in small, often overlooked, moments. In our fast-paced world, it's easy to become overwhelmed by adversity, missing the simple blessings that God provides daily. Rachel shares how she has cultivated an attitude of gratitude, even during the toughest times. This perspective shift has allowed her to recognize and cherish the small glimpses of joy and blessings in her life. By focusing on God's presence in the mundane and the miraculous, Rachel demonstrates that gratefulness can be a powerful antidote to despair. Stephanie's conversation with Rachel invites all of us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we can embrace gratefulness and deeper faith amidst our trials. Our journeys, no matter how difficult, are imbued with God's grace and presence. So, listen to Rachel's story; and then also introspectively examine your own hardships and blessings. By fostering a heart of gratitude, we too can witness God's hand in our lives and draw strength from it. MEET RACHEL WOJO https://rachelwojo.com/ Rachel says, "Sin erupted in my 'perfect life'. I grew up in a wonderful Christian home with fabulous Christian parents.  Our family was faithful to church, and I graduated from a Christian school.  I attended a Christian college and completed the circle by teaching in a Christian school.  My future husband was a “preacher boy,” and when we married, the plan was that he would take a youth pastor position wherever God led.  Only after we married did he have serious doubts about his calling and stop attending church altogether. After two years of marriage, a precious daughter was born to us via emergency c-section.  She experienced oxygen deprivation and required resuscitation, but she lived. Three years after Taylor's birth, I discovered that her father had been having an affair essentially four of the five years we were married. Despite that great protective environment I'd always known, and being faithful to God's house, sin had erupted in my “perfect” life, and my marriage to this man didn't withstand. Bad choices were made by both parties, and we divorced. Despite all the pain and loss of the “perfect” life, God brought a solid Christian man into my life, and He has given us a wonderful story of grace and redemption. But amid Matt and I falling in love, my dearest mom fell severely ill, diagnosed with a rare type of anemia.  Two months later, the diagnosis was changed to leukemia, and she lived just six short months after that.  Mom was the strongest, most faithful Christian I've ever personally known; she was my best friend. The discovery process for my daughter Taylor's developmental delays became more intense during my divorce and my mom's death.  Doctors often blamed the delays on her lack of oxygen at birth.  But in my heart, I knew there was more to her issues.  Nine months after my mom's death, the diagnosis for Taylor came through: MPSIIIB, a rare genetic metabolic disorder that causes gradual neurological degeneration.  The average life span is 10-15 years, and there is no cure or even a treatment. Upon receiving Taylor's diagnosis, my walk with the Lord became intense.  I asked all the “why” and “how” questions.  I wanted God to spill out His plan for my entire life in one day. But through His Word, God has taught me that faith is not only a one-time decision; it's an everyday decision. Trusting His plan for your everyday life is equally as important as trusting Him for your eternal life. On January 2, 2019, our Taylor graduated to heaven. The heartache and sorrow of our loss, yet heaven's gain, is difficult to describe in a few words. In November 2018, I began writing letters to Taylor because she could no longer communicate. God has richly blessed Matt and me with a beautiful family and more blessings than we can count.  Our incredible six children are growing steadily; they challenge me and bless me in every way. I am so very thankful for them. Each day we live by faith that God would have His will in our lives. Each day we claim God's promises and choose to run towards His plan, no matter what it includes. We are still learning how to take one more step." MORE ABOUT "DESPERATE PRAYERS" Do your prayers resemble last-minute cries more than first-response chats? You're not alone in calling out to God in life's pitch-black moments and wondering if He's listening. Enter the powerful secrets of the Bible's eleventh-hour pleas of fifteen men and women. This engaging book invites you into the prayer stories of struggling Bible characters like Hagar, Hannah, and David. Each chapter's simple three-word prayer focus will deepen your trust and affirm your heart that it's best to be you before God. The ideal desperate pray-er to shine light on your prayer dilemmas, Rachel Wojo vulnerably shares her heartbreaking experiences of loss while pointing you to your Father. Her prayer journey and promising principles will guide you from frenzied desperation to dependent faith. When you finish Desperate Prayers: Embracing the Power of Prayer in Life's Darkest Moments, you'll know that praying in a panic creates a powerful pathway to peace.  We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Customers First Podcast
Customer-Centric: From Promise to Performance with Laura Richard

Customers First Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2024 34:20


This episode of the Customers First Podcast features an insightful conversation with Laura Richard, a principal at Level 5 Consulting. Her significant contributions to customer-centricity and leadership in consulting have been widely recognized. Laura articulates the importance of customer experience as a core driver of business success, highlighting her belief that genuine customer connection stems from deeply understanding their needs and expectations. Laura introduces us to the concept of customer centricity and shares her insights on the seven dimensions that define this approach. She emphasizes the need for organizations to promise value to their customers and consistently deliver on that promise.  Laura discusses the continuous evolution of customer experience and shares her framework for improvement. This framework underscores the necessity of gathering voice-of-customer insights and fostering cross-functional collaboration.  We further delve into Laura's customer-centric maturity model, focusing first on the promise aspect and its three core dimensions: Establishing a clear brand promise Having a fact-based understanding of customer behaviour Concentrating on meaningful moments in the customer journey Transitioning to the performance side, Laura highlights four critical dimensions: Maintaining consistent collaboration. Centering customer needs in decision-making processes. Measuring customer outcomes effectively. Committing to long-term investments in customer-centric initiatives. This episode is a rich resource for anyone interested in elevating their organization's customer experience through a strategic, consistent, and collaborative approach. It ultimately embraces the belief that magic happens when organizations prioritize customer centricity.   Laura's Contact Information: LinkedIn: @laurakrichard Take Level5's customer centricity maturity survey: https://www.research.net/r/L5CxMaturity. This will provide you with a free personalized report.   Tacey's Contact Information: All Social Media: @taceyatkinson Website: https://www.taceyatkinson.com Thank you for tuning in, and I look forward to having more valuable conversations together in the future. Remember: Customer-Centric Cultures Create Magical Customer Experiences. Now Go Spread the Magic!  

Think UDL
Centering Disability with Katie Grennell

Think UDL

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2024 61:48


Welcome to Episode 136 of the Think UDL podcast: Centering Disability with Katie Grennell. Dr. Katie Grennell completed her PhD in American Studies from the University at Buffalo in 2016. Her dissertation, entitled The Making of the ‘Fame Monster': Disability Aesthetics, Bodily Deviance and Celebrity Culture delved into the distinctions between deviance and normativity by analyzing representations of disability, bodily difference, and deviance in American popular music and popular culture of the late 20th and early 21st century. She has worked as an adjunct in the disciplines of history, American Studies, American popular music, and disability studies for 17 years at multiple institutions throughout Western New York. She currently works as an Accessibility Strategist at Anthology, supporting institutions using Ally. Her first book, Disability and Accessibility in the Music Classroom: An Instructor's Guide (Routledge) was published September 1, 2022. In this conversation, I ask her about UDL in performance-based classrooms and how disability access has shaped her teaching. In addition, we discuss what disability culture teaches all of us and what her vision is for the future of inclusive education. 

Write-minded Podcast
Centering Marginalized Characters in Your Fiction, featuring Barbara Ridley

Write-minded Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2024 41:30


This week's episode is inspired by guest Barbara Ridley's new novel, Unswerving, whose central protagonist is gay and disabled. We explore the dearth of disabled characters in fiction, and hear from Barbara how choosing to write about a character who was doubly “othered” drew critiques that she was perhaps going a bridge too far. This episode examines sensitivities to consider when writing “the other” in fiction, and also why it's important to write characters who don't often get an opportunity to be centered—as it creates empathy and opens our eyes to the broad range of human experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Film at Lincoln Center Podcast
#564 - Payal Kapadia and Thomas Hakim on All We Imagine as Light

Film at Lincoln Center Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 2, 2024 23:11


This week we're excited to present a conversation with director Payal Kapadia and producer Thomas Hakim of the NYFF62 Main Slate selection All We Imagine as Light. All We Imagine as Light opens at Film at Lincoln Center on November 15 with Payal Kapadia in person! Get tickets at filmlinc.org/light The light, the lives, and the textures of contemporary, working-class Mumbai are explored and celebrated with a vivid, humane richness by Payal Kapadia, who won the Grand Prize at this year's Cannes Film Festival for her revelatory fiction feature debut. Centering on two roommates who also work together in a city hospital—head nurse Prabha (Kani Kusruti) and recent hire Anu (Divya Prabha)—and a newly retired coworker Parvaty (Chhaya Kadam), Kapadia's film alights on prosaic moments of connection and heartache, hope and disappointment. Prabha, her husband from an arranged marriage living in faraway Germany, is pursued by a courtly doctor; Anu carries on a romance with a Muslim man, which she must keep a secret from her Hindu family; Parvaty finds herself dealing with a sudden eviction from her apartment. Kapadia captures the bustle of the metropolis and the open-air tranquility of a seaside resort with equal radiance, articulated by her superb actors with an unforced expressivity and by the camera with a lyrical naturalism that occasionally drifts into dreamlike incandescence. This conversation was moderated by NYFF Artistic Director Dennis Lim.

Gospel Spice
Tasting our faith anew through the feasts | An unusual pairing

Gospel Spice

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2024 63:55


We invite you this week to come to the table and deepen your experience of the feasts that Jesus celebrated, by exploring together the timeless significance of Holy Week and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. In the heart of the Christian and Jewish traditions lie two sacred week-long holy feasts: Holy Week and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. As Scripture and tradition invite us into the intricacies of these feasts, we invite you to connect the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus to the rich tapestry of Jewish Torah and tradition. Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread stand as inseparable pillars within Jewish celebrations. Passover, the most important Jewish feast, serves as precursor to the Feast of Unleavened Bread. For Christians, the former marks the sacred observance of the Lord's Supper as the Lamb of God, while the latter points to Jesus' sinlessness.  The perfect alignment of Holy Week and the Feast of Unleavened Bread in 2025, an unusual thing, offers interesting connections we invite you to explore. For example, the Jewish tradition of inspecting and setting aside the unblemished lamb for sacrifice intertwines with the events of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. The parallel between the Passover lamb and Jesus, the sinless lamb of God unfolds, as Holy Week draws us into the divine plan of salvation.  We also explore how Jesus' cleansing of the temple showcases his authority to safeguard the spiritual dwelling places of believers. Jesus' encounters with religious leaders during Holy Week also reflect his absolute integrity and absence of blemish, mirroring the unblemished Passover lamb. He is proving the true Lamb of God indeed! The interweaving of Holy Week and the Feast of Unleavened Bread is an original way, in 2025, to highlight God's eternal redemptive plan.  Jesus is indeed the sinless lamb who fulfills the ancient prophecies, opening for us the path of salvation. We invite you to join us as we find ourselves steeped in the timeless tapestry of God's divine love, giving glory to Jesus, our only source of salvation. Our hope and prayer is that, through the original connection in 2025 between Holy Week and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, we will together experience the divine truth of Scripture, anchoring our faith in  the sinless lamb, Jesus Christ, for our redemption. Amen! Don't forget to check out our essential workbook to accompany this study. Stephanie personally created the content to invite you deeper into study. Don't miss out! It's at https://www.gospelspice.com/store We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

SAGE Sociology
Society and Mental Health - Centering Agency: Examining the Relationship between Acts of Resistance, Anxiety, and Depression Among Undocumented College Students

SAGE Sociology

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2024 10:09


Author Martha Morales Hernandez discusses the article, "Centering Agency: Examining the Relationship between Acts of Resistance, Anxiety, and Depression Among Undocumented College Students," published in the November 2024 issue of Society and Mental Health.

Gospel Spice
Go on a Bible study adventure! | with Ros Evans

Gospel Spice

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 51:34


In a world overflowing with distractions and quick fixes, Stephanie and Ros invite you to explore meaningful Bible study experiences towards awakening fresh delight for God. Ros articulates the value of revisiting familiar Bible passages, emphasizing how repeated exposure refreshes comprehension and facilitates spiritual awakening. Bible study is not merely a checklist, but rather an enriching experience in our spiritual journey. Continuous exploration of Scripture promises fresh insights. Download the FREE recipe for the Rousselle family Moroccan chicken recipe that Ros and Stephanie mention - it is mouth-watering! Here: https://www.gospelspice.com/free  Ros describes her own experience of the “Centering on Christ” Gospel Spice Bible study. It offered her group a delightful setting to discover Christ foreshadowed in the Old Testament, and to worship Him in deeper ways. The study invites you to know Christ at a deeper level through an in-depth exploration of the wilderness Tabernacle erected by Moses. Speaking of being in the wilderness, Stephanie invites us to discover the rich setting of Israel in Jesus' day through the “In the Footsteps of Jesus” Bible study. On her very first visit to the Holy Land, Stephanie had but one goal: to walk where Jesus walked, to see the sights and skylines He saw, to touch the stones He touched, and to experience His words where He initially taught them. Scripture has never been more real and alive to her than since she experienced Jesus in Jerusalem and Galilee. And now, she invites you to do the same! Seeking genuine delight in God is richer and more fulfilling than any worldly substitute. Stephanie draws parallels between savoring the glory of God, and the experience of tasting high-quality vanilla, likening superficial pleasures to settling for imitation vanilla. Ros's anecdote about a mix-up involving vanilla in a traditional South African dessert humorously illustrates the lesson of recognizing true delight once experienced. Stephanie introduces the "French faith" study, where the French word "délice," meaning both "delight" and "delicious," enriches interpretations and brings Scriptures like "taste and see that the Lord is good" to life. French Faith is a three-course meal that aims to serve you as you feed on the word of God to intensify your faith. It's a feast of words for the spiritual senses towards more of God. Christmas shopping is now! So, the Gospel Spice courses are available at a discount with the code ROS30. We aim to combine spiritual growth with impactful giving, supporting Christian organizations combating human trafficking. You will find all our courses at https://www.gospelspice.com/store  You know Stephanie, so you know her Bible courses are super in-depth, and absolutely insight-packed. You will most assuredly deepen your relationship with God through these courses. We release new, updated Bible course a couple of times a year. So check back soon for more, or signup for our newsletter to be the first to know and receive exclusive coupon codes. MORE ABOUT “CENTERING ON CHRIST | THE TABERNACLE” Come with a heart thirsty for more of Christ and experience Him in fresh new ways! Be drawn into deeper, more intimate worship of Christ. Discover the symbolism and ultimate fulfillment of the Tabernacle in Christ, and in you as His dwelling place. Experience God's timeline of grace, from Eden past to Heaven future. You will leave this study with a deep understanding of the symbolism of the Tabernacle and its fulfillment in Christ, and a renewed awe and passion for God. More at https://www.gospelspice.com/tabernacle  MORE ABOUT “IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF JESUS” From the comfort of your own home, you will discover the key places of the ministry of Jesus as Stephanie teaches from Scripture and provides an abundance of resources and insights straight from her recent experience. She will share about special moments, like when she experienced a delightful, summer-drenched pine forest scent that might have been a familiar and favorite to Jesus as a child. She will invite you to one of his favorite childhood vistas, or tell you why Galileans were especially impressed with the gleaming white stones of Jerusalem. She will show you what it must have been like to walk on the Emmaus Road with Jesus, and how the Judean wilderness inspired David to write the Psalms that point us to Jesus today. More at https://www.gospelspice.com/footsteps  MORE ABOUT “GOD'S GLORY, OUR DELIGHT” Delighting in the glory of God. Does this concept strike you as reserved for spiritual contemplatives? What if, instead, it proved the highly practical, deeply foundational perspective you need right now?  Why does God's glory even matter in our day and age? How can we learn from Jesus to make His glory our true North and lifelong quest? What keeps us from fully stepping into this God-ordained purpose for our life? How do we kindle delight for God on a daily basis? And, once we have embraced God's glory as our heart's true delight, how can we then come alongside others? Embrace the greatest quest of life today! More at https://www.gospelspice.com/glory    MORE ABOUT “FRENCH FAITH” Delight in Scripture through French eyes! French Faith is a three-course meal that aims to serve you as you feed on the word of God to intensify your faith. It's a feast of words for the spiritual senses towards more of God. Unpack Scripture through the French culture and language with French words that would tell you something maybe unexpected about Christ. You, too, can experience French faith and delight in Christ so that you can approach Scripture and Jesus through French eyes. More at https://www.gospelspice.com/frenchfaith  Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us.  1- If you've enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It's at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don't want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup 2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There's exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you! 4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you! So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions: 1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you're going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we've put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it's one of the easiest ways to share the gospel! 4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you! Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

The Love Letter Project: Love Songs, Stories and Affirmations To the World from a Black Woman
Centering Myself is Actually Really Hard | Decentering others, Healing from Burnout, Self Love and Healing for Black women, Affirmations

The Love Letter Project: Love Songs, Stories and Affirmations To the World from a Black Woman

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 43:25


Hi there Beautiful, Centering myself is actually really hard. Learning how to center yourself after centering and prioritizing others can cause you to forget to center and prioritize yourself. Some of us are still learning how to love ourselves well and give ourselves what we need to flourish and heal. I'm sending you so much love, grace and joy. As a recovering people pleaser and "servant", learning how to navigate delf love can be tough. much love, joy and peace, Alecia

Money Magic Podcast
Episode 119: The Life-Changing Impact of Sexual Pleasure on Personal and Financial Growth

Money Magic Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 66:29


In this week's episode of the #MoneyMagic Podcast, Vangile Makwakwa sits with Naomi Harris, an expert in sexual pleasure and empowerment, to discuss women's issues around sexual pleasure, orgasm, and healing ancestral trauma.    Naomi shares her journey of self-discovery, highlighting her personal struggles with sexual pleasure and the transformative impact of addressing these issues. The conversation delves into the significance of exploring one's own body, understanding the importance of sexual pleasure, and the societal pressures that often limit women's experiences.    Naomi emphasizes the need for women to reclaim their sexual power and embrace their bodies without shame.   The discussion also explores the connection between sexual pleasure and financial well-being, suggesting that the ability to experience and embrace pleasure can positively influence other aspects of life, including financial abundance.   Naomi shares insights on how societal norms and patriarchal structures shape women's perceptions of sexuality and pleasure, often leading to suppressed desires and unmet needs. The conversation encourages women to question these narratives and understand the profound impact of pleasure on overall quality of life. This is another insightful episode.  Tune in.    During this episode, you will learn about:    [02:47] – Introduction to Naomi Harris [06:42] - Naomi's journey into understanding her sexuality [08:53] - Female sexuality research and societal issues [10:56] - Societal expectations and personal identity [16:59.9] - The importance of self-ownership in pleasure [18:21] - Explanation of female arousal and health [22:29] - How women can recognize full arousal [27:05] – The effect of trauma on sexuality [29:40] - How first sexual experiences shape expectations [33:57] - How pleasure relates to money and relationships [40:00] - Centering pleasure in life [45:55] - The effect of centering pleasure on finances [49:32] - The power of breathwork in healing [53:16] - Creating safe spaces for healing in relationships [57:09] - The importance of a regulated nervous system for creating safe spaces [01:01:05] – Contact Naomi: https://www.thepleasurenaturopath.com/ or https://www.instagram.com/_sensualfreedom_    Notable Quotes   "As a soul, I am an adventurer, a traveler, and a deep diver into life. I really, really, really want to explore life and find out about it." "I started healing and really looking at who I was and what my stories around sex were and what my body was doing." "We're constantly being told who we are in really subtle ways and also really just overt, you are this thing, ways and in relationships as well." "For most of us, I think sexuality is actually something a little bit more precious and a little bit more inside and a little bit more contained." "What does sex mean to you? What does pleasure mean to you? What does pleasure feel like? What does orgasm feel like?" "We need to have a regulated nervous system in order to feel full pleasure in the body."   Additional money trauma resources:   One on One Coaching: https://www.wealthy-money.com/coaching  Money Magic course: https://www.wealthy-money.com/moneymagic  7 Day Tapping into Ancestral Money Wisdom Training: https://wealthy-money.com/training Let's connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vangilemakwakwa/ 

fiction/non/fiction
S8 Ep. 4: Stephen Markley on The Deluge to Come

fiction/non/fiction

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2024 46:12


In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, novelist Stephen Markley joins co-hosts V.V. Ganeshananthan and Whitney Terrell to discuss his novel The Deluge, which predicts and depicts the impact of climate change over the next couple of decades. Markley talks about researching and portraying the scale of catastrophic climate events, the role of the markets and other financial considerations in pushing world leaders to take the issue seriously, and which character in his novel was previously Kamala Harris. Markely also reflects on how in revision, he repeatedly had to scale up his fictional disasters to keep them ahead of actual events, the uncanny experience of forecasting disasters like Helene, and the movement leaders—including Bill McKibben, Al Gore, and James Hansen—he felt compelled to include in his novel. Markley reads from The Deluge. Check out video versions of our interviews on the Fiction/Non/Fiction Instagram account, the Fiction/Non/Fiction YouTube Channel, and our show website: https://www.fnfpodcast.net/ This episode of the podcast was produced by Anne Kniggendorf and Cheni Thein. Stephen Markley The Deluge  Ohio Only Murders in the Building Others: Matthew Salesses on the Possibilities of Climate Fiction | Literary Hub 1984 by George Orwell Ali Zaidi Weather Underground Climate Defiance The End of Nature by Bill McKibben The Stand by Stephen King The Inflation Reduction Act The Green New Deal  “Helene, Milton losses expected to surpass ‘truly historic' $50 billion each”  - CBS News “Beyond Helene: Hurricane death toll tops 300 lives, with month left in season” - USA Today Fiction/Non/Fiction Season 4 Episode 15: Workshop Politics: Matthew Salesses on Centering the Marginalized Writer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gospel Spice
Cultivating joy from the soil of joylessness | with Alastair Sterne

Gospel Spice

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2024 51:22


Stephanie welcomes Alastair Sterne to discuss the intricate and joyful dance of divine longing. They explore the innate human desire to seek God, the mysterious nature of joy, and the cultivated wisdom that guides us towards spiritual fulfillment in Christ. Alastair Sterne describes the innate human desire to connect with God as a dance. This longing, he notes, arises from the paradox of God being both mysterious and revealed. Jesus Christ reveals God in ways we are invited to explore. The pursuit of God is a journey towards an eternal dance—an unmistakable yearning threaded throughout humanity's history. Joy is not the absence of pain but a testament to divine triumph through trials. Alastair reflects on his personal battle with severe depression—a transformative experience that led him to explore the cultivation of joy. He draws inspiration from the apostle Paul's paradoxical journey: finding profound joy amidst suffering, as explained in Philippians. Joy serves as a divine longing, a sort of homesickness for the eternal. Alastair and Stephanie ponder the concept of joy, highlighting its elusive yet universally appealing nature. Joy transcends fleeting satisfaction, and aligns with a deep-seated desire for God's presence. Wisdom, as discussed by Alastair, provides a framework for cultivating environments where joy can thrive. Drawing upon Proverbs and Miroslav Volf's insights, he argues that wisdom is integral to experiencing "the crown of the good life." By nurturing habits and attitudes, we can plant seeds that allow joy to grow—even amidst life's challenges. Beauty too can be a bridge to divine presence: aesthetic experiences often lead to deeper spiritual connections. Beauty is a precursor to worship, signifying God's creative handiwork. Joy remains contagious regardless of its expression. It can manifest subtly through introspective personalities, or vibrantly via extroverted expressions. This contagious nature inspires others to pursue joy and strengthens the collective spiritual journey. The church calendar invites us towards spiritual awareness, as well. Alastair values the rhythm it brings, providing opportunities to reflect on joyous seasons like Eastertide and introspective ones like Lent. He emphasizes integrating these spiritual practices into daily life to heighten one's awareness of God's presence. Alastair Sterne invites us to explore the deeper dimensions of joy, wisdom, and longing. By embracing the dance with the divine, cultivating wisdom, and recognizing beauty in creation, we can align ourselves with a spiritual trajectory ever deeper into Christ. Alastair's prayer for all those who are listening, asking for God's joy to fill hearts, encapsulates the hope and assurance that await those seeking enduring joy in their spiritual journey. MORE ABOUT ALASTAIR STERNE Alastair Sterne (DIS, Fuller Theological Seminary) is a creative director turned pastor. He serves as the associate pastor at Coastline Church in Victoria, British Columbia. He previously partnered with Redeemer City to City and founded St. Peter's Fireside, a creative liturgical church in Vancouver. He is the author of Rhythms for Life: Spiritual Practices for Who God Made You to Be. Alastair and his wife, Julia, write and podcast together at ordinarymatters.org and collect joy with their daughters. MORE ABOUT “LONGING FOR JOY.” Can we still have joy in a world of pain and anxiety? The troubles around us and in our lives lead many of us into a joyless experience where despair and hopelessness are the norm. Yet something within us still longs for a joy that transcends our challenges and gives us meaning and satisfaction. Alastair Sterne says that our inner longings for joy actually point us to a God of joy who gives us both the capacity for joy and the realities of joyful experience. Sterne explores pathways to joy and why we often experience the absence of joy. He then offers theologically grounded and research-based practices for becoming people of joyful presence. Even if we are not temperamentally happy enthusiasts, we can gradually cultivate the deep abiding joy that we were created for and that enriches the world around us. SAMPLE FROM “LONGING FOR JOY” “When it comes to having children, someone once said, “You'll have less fun but more joy.” I'm not sure I agree with the former but I wholeheartedly agree with the latter—being a father has amplified my joy. Indeed, it is among my greatest joys. My eldest fractured her wrist yesterday. And today, we figured that out. Oops. It's a relatively minor fracture (compared to her broken arm five years ago). She's casted up and ready to go. I can't say it was fun to be in the emergency room for hours on end. But there was nowhere else I'd rather be than by her side . . . even though she was mostly engrossed in a movie or book. On my run this afternoon (my ankles are getting stronger, thanks be to God), I came across an intriguing bench. A rather idyllic path leads to it. The plaque reads: “A place to rest, reflect, and remember in loving memory of our grandmother, mother, sister, and daughter.” But when you sit on the bench, the view is rather, well, uninspired. A beautiful lake resides just around the bend, but this bench is positioned to look at . . . bushes. But should you sit, rest, and reflect, you will see more than bushes. You will see the beauty of the ordinary. The unremarkable transfigured into glory. I won't pretend to be able to name all the species of plants and trees. As I stood there, no longer perplexed by the position of the bench, I was enamored by the gift it offers: the beautiful ordinary. Back to being a father: most days are ordinary. And if I'm careless, they can even feel unremarkable—a compilation of repetitions. But then moments poke holes in the veneer of banality, like hospital waiting rooms for relatively minor injuries. You look at life with a renewed thankfulness and your heart becomes a little more sensitive too. When I sit, rest, and reflect, I find that joy often abides somewhere between thankfulness and a sensitive heart. Would it have been more fun to play hooky from school and go on a walk in the woods with my daughter rather than wait, and wait, and wait among the injured and sick? Of course. Nevertheless, joy sat quietly with us as we waited. The joy of fatherhood and the joy of a well-placed bench.” We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

EquiTEA
Centering Lived Experiences: The Heart of Harm Reduction

EquiTEA

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2024 37:56


In this episode of EquiTEA, host Greg is joined by special guest co-host Wendy Heatherington, Branch Chief of the Riverside University Health System (RUHS) Public Health department. Together, they engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Audrey and Edif, representatives from Inland Empire Harm Reduction (IEHR), a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of individuals affected by drug use in the Inland Empire. The conversation revolves around the core principles of harm reduction, IEHR's efforts to combat stigma, support marginalized communities, and adapt their services amidst the pandemic and beyond.    To find out more about IEHR's services and how to get involved, please visit:  Overview – Inland Empire Harm Reduction (ieharmreduction.org)  To receive free Narcan, visit one of our facilities or reach out directly to RODA at roda@ruhealth.org. Riverside Overdose Data to Action | Riverside University Health System (ruhealth.org)

Gospel Spice
Delight in Jesus from fasting to feasting | Purim and Lent

Gospel Spice

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 18, 2024 49:30


Stephanie here! We are in our Come to the Table series, and today is a bit of a surprise! I always find it fascinating to find fresh ways to worship Jesus Christ through the connections between different feasts and seasons. So today I invite you to delight in Christ through the unexpected juxtaposition of Purim and Lent. We invite you into a delightful exploration of the divine tapestry that intertwines the ancient traditions of Purim with the solemn reverence of Lent, ultimately pointing to the redemptive Lordship of Jesus Christ. Purim, a joyous and festive Jewish celebration, commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people as detailed in the book of Esther. The intricacies of the story, from the absence of God's name in the book of Esther to the sovereignty and deliverance of His people, provide a rich tapestry to explore. In the Christian tradition, Lent serves as a period of preparation and reflection leading up to Easter, encompassing forty days marked by fasting, sacrifice, and repentance. Both Purim and Lent share a dark background of struggle and the hope of a joyous feast, creating an intriguing juxtaposition. Steeped in history and tradition, Purim and Lent leads us to worship Jesus at their intersection. It's compelling to note that while Purim is celebrated with joyful feasting and the giving of gifts to the poor, Lent involves fasting before the celebration of Easter. Both observances intertwine notions of hardship and hope, underscoring the resilience and faith exhibited by believers. Purim and Lent beckon us to seek and find Jesus in the heart of these sacred observances. So, join the conversation today! Don't forget to check out our essential workbook to accompany this study. Stephanie personally created the content to invite you deeper into study. Don't miss out! It's at https://www.gospelspice.com/store We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   What matters to us here at Gospel Spice is to create a place where people who seek deeper intimacy with Jesus, will find Him. We want a warm, welcoming atmosphere to journey ever deeper into the heart of God. We believe it is the ultimate calling of the Christian life, and I like to summarize it with my motto, God's glory, our delight. That is why we invite you to “taste and see” that the Lord is good. And we have been doing this every day since 2019. We need YOU to keep Gospel Spice alive and growing.   Financially speaking, we rely on people who understand this vision and who understand that we cannot function without a minimum budget. We run an extremely tight budget. For example, I work full time but don't draw a salary. And yet, we have expenses – for example, the equipment and technology we use, and also the wonderfully gifted staff who make it possible to deliver high quality content all around the globe, and then the necessary occasional promotional budget to make it possible to be discovered by those who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel of Jesus Christ. We need your help.   So we would love for you to consider if this ministry is blessing you to pay gospel spice forward. You can partner with us monthly with 10, 25, 50, 100, a month, or you can make one donation, once. And because we are a register nonprofit organization in the United States under the status of a 501c3 charity, it means that the amount that you pay to gospel spice is fully tax deductible. Completely tax deductible. So you're even saving money as you invest in gospel spice ministries. It is an eternal investment, and we are very grateful to you for it. Now it's very important to us that we give back as much as possible from what you give us. And so we commit to giving the majority of what we receive, once all of our administrative costs are paid, to organizations that fight human trafficking on the front line. There are many worthwhile causes in the world, so why this one? Because I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – maybe because I have never been its victim myself, so I feel a responsibility to help those less fortunate than me. Also, because Jesus tells us to love our neighbor. Human trafficking is modern day slavery, and that is something that revolts the heart of God. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.   So, we do some due diligence. We pick organizations who have proven themselves trustworthy of our support. And then we give money to these Christians organizations that fight human trafficking. So would you consider paying us forward at gospelspice.com/payitforward? Your hard-earned money is always well used at Gospel Spice. Ultimately, you are giving back to the Kingdom, a portion of what Jesus has given you. We are well aware of the privilege to steward your partnership. And my prayer is always that you will find your own life spiced with the gospel as you partner with us to flavor the lives of those around us, near and far, with the spice of the gospel. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Focus on the Family Parenting Podcast
Centering Your Heart on God in the Mornings

Focus on the Family Parenting Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2024 11:05


How do you like to start your day as a parent? John and Danny explain how they tried starting their days when their kids were little. Then, Heidi St. John talks with Jim Daly about what helped her start her days off well, and times she's faced disappointed expectations as a mom.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/parentingpodcast. Or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book MomStrong 365 for your donation of any amount!   Take the 7 Traits of Effective Parenting Assessment   Listen Anytime   Mom, Do You Know How Amazing You Are?   How to Be an Active, Gospel-Centered Mom   Support This Show!   If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Listening to America
POY: Centering Public Health

Listening to America

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2024 16:36


After guiding the Texas county through the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Philip Huang, its health director, pushed for collaboration and long-term strategies to prepare for future crises. Data modernization proved to be crucial. Huang has spent his career navigating the complexities of public health with a mission to impact as many families as possible. From his early experiences in Nepal that shifted his focus from family medicine to public health, to leading Dallas County through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the county health director has championed data modernization and transparency as key tools in building public trust. His unique perspective, shaped by work at local, state and federal levels, drives his vision for a more resilient, collaborative and depoliticized approach to public health in the future. Huang is one of Governing's* 2024 Public Officials of the Year, a special recognition of people who make government work. Governing Senior Staff Writer Carl Smith joins the podcast to discuss Huang's work and review the key takeaways from his interview with Huang. SHOW NOTES: Here are the top 5 takeaways from this episode: Motivation for Pursuing Public Health: Huang, Dallas County's health director, shifted from family medicine to public health after a formative experience in Nepal. He realized he could impact more families by addressing broader public health issues rather than individual patient care. Public Health Challenges During COVID-19: Huang was frustrated with political polarization surrounding public health during COVID-19. He stresses the need for long-term strategies and infrastructure to better prepare for future pandemics, highlighting the importance of depoliticizing health recommendations. Data Modernization for Effective Public Health: There is a life-or-death need for robust data systems in public health. Early in the pandemic, Dallas County relied on outdated methods like fax and paper. The modernization of data infrastructure allowed for better decision-making and community trust during the pandemic. Building and Sustaining Public Trust: Transparency and communication with the public played a key role in building trust. Huang's efforts included establishing a public health portal and regularly sharing data and updates to keep the community informed. Collaboration Across Public Health Levels: Huang's experience working at local, state and federal levels gives him a unique perspective on how different agencies view public health. He uses this understanding to facilitate communication and cooperation across these sectors, ensuring a more cohesive approach to health challenges.   Related Links to stories referenced in the episode: Public Officials of the Year: Overview Bringing Data to Bear on Public Health Outcomes (Huang POY profile) Our editors used ChatGPT 4.0 to summarize the episode in bullet form to help create the show notes. The main image for this story was created using DALL-E 3.   

The Self Love Fix
259. De-Centering Men- Tapping into your Feminine Expression + Creativity

The Self Love Fix

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2024 33:04


In this episode we chat: Romanticizing your daily routines-- a continued conversation from last week   How you might be misplacing your precious nurturing aspect of your feminine with the WRONG men  How tapping into your feminine creativity + expression can help you de-center men WORK WITH BEATRICE: Click here to join Valued the masterclass at $77 where I  teach you how to go from being a SLAVE TO ATTENTION from a man (aka feeling CONFUSED ABOUT HOW HE FEELS because he doesn't make you feel SECURE by TELLING you how he feels about you... to stepping into the SOFT, RELAXED feminine woman who attracts men who SHOW you how they VALUE YOU with your actions. CONNECT WITH BEATRICE: Be sure to connect with me more on Instagram @theselflovefix. I'd love to hear what you thought of this episode and what your major takeaways were. Make sure to tell a friend to tell a friend about this podcast!

Grand Tamasha
Busting India's Demographic Myths

Grand Tamasha

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2024 47:55


There is hardly a day that goes by when the subject of India's demographics is not front and center in the news.Whether it is India surpassing China as the world's most populous country, questions about how the Indian economy can provide enough jobs for a growing workforce, or how population should be used to allocate everything from legislative seats to fiscal transfers, demographics are at the heart of many debates surrounding India's political economy.To talk about India's demographics and its demographic transition, Milan is joined on the show this week by Poonam Muttreja, who serves as the Executive Director of the Population Foundation of India.For over 40 years, she has been a strong advocate for women's health, reproductive and sexual rights, and rural livelihoods. Before joining PFI, she served as the India Country Director of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation for 15 years.Poonam and Milan discuss the myths of overpopulation, India's fertility decline, and conspiracy theories around India's changing religious demographics. Plus, the two discuss male participation in family planning and what government should (and should not) do to manage India's demographics.Episode notes:1. Poonam Muttreja and Martand Kaushik, “Dispelling population myths triggered by a working paper,” Hindu, May 30, 2024.2. Sanghamitra Singh, “We're worried about population explosion. So let's talk brass tacks,” Hindustan Times, July 27, 2023.3. Zubeda Hamid, “Education remains the most effective contraceptive: experts,” Hindu, July 5, 2024.4. Poonam Muttreja, “Centering women and marginalized communities in India's population policy,” Times of India, July 17, 2024.5. Poonam Muttreja, Sanghamitra Singh, and Martand Kaushik, “Busting myths about India's population growth,” IDR, August 14, 2024.6. Nirmala Buch, “Reservation for Women in Panchayats: A Sop in Disguise?” Economic and Political Weekly 44, no. 40 (October 3, 2009): 8–10.

Postpartum Production
Centering Ritual and Visualization in Birth and Art: A Conversation with Anna Hennessey

Postpartum Production

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2024 53:40


When we decided to focus this season on the subject of birth and creativity, we knew we'd have to include Anna Hennessey, a writer and scholar based in San Francisco. Much of Anna's writing over the past decade, which includes a book called Imagery, Ritual, and Birth: Ontology between the Sacred and the Secular, is devoted to the topic of birth in the humanities. She also has a blog called Visualizing Birth, intended to provide people with images, videos and stories that they can use as practical tools to help them in envisioning the birth of their own children. In addition to her writing, Anna is the current director of the Society for the Study of Pregnancy and Birth, an intellectual hub for scholars in the arts, humanities, and social sciences who research pregnancy and birth in their fields. Her academic background is in the history of religion, with a focus on Chinese art, philosophy, religion, and language. She's taught in the University of California and California State University systems, and has researched as a visiting scholar at UC Berkeley. She lives with her husband and children in San Francisco and travels frequently to Catalonia, her husband's homeland. Anna is also deeply connected to her own Irish heritage and Ireland, which is a topic that we discuss here as well. Kaitlin's conversation with Anna is deeply informative, rich with insightful references to scholars and to artists throughout history who are changing our conception of the intellectual as well as the practical possibilities of birth art. Books referenced in the podcast:Birth as an American Rite of PassageThe Mother WaveMatricentric FeminismAlso mentioned in the podcast:Call for Submissions: Society for the Study of Pregnancy Birth (SSPB) Virtual Symposium: "Natality: Interdisciplinary Approaches to Birth as Existential Experience"The Birth Rites Collection UKPlease subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and give us a rating. This will help us reach more listeners like you who are navigating the joys and pitfalls of artistic and parenting identities.For regular updates:Visit our website: postpartumproduction.com Follow us on Instagram: @postpartumproductionpodcastSubscribe to our podcast newsletter on Substack:

A World of Difference
Dr. Kristin Kobes Du Mez on Centering Survivors: The Vital Voices Behind For Our Daughters

A World of Difference

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2024 56:49


Want to understand the impact of evangelicalism on politics and how to make a difference? Discover how a historian, NY Times best-selling author and filmmaker are centering survivor voices to bring about change. Get ready to dive into a conversation that's making waves and sparking crucial conversations. Stay tuned for more. In this episode, you will be able to: Explore the impact of evangelicalism on politics and uncover its influence on key societal issues. Understand the significance of a survivor-centered approach in abuse documentaries and its potential to reshape narratives. Gain insight into the historical context of gender roles in evangelicalism and its relevance in contemporary discussions. Uncover the influence of Christian nationalism on U.S. elections and its implications for the political landscape. Discover the essential role of historians in understanding current social issues and shaping informed perspectives. My special guest is Dr. Kristin Kobes Du Mez Dr. Kristin Kobes Du Mez, a New York Times bestselling author and professor of history and gender studies at Calvin University, is known for her groundbreaking work on the intersection of gender, religion, and politics. Her book Jesus and John Wayne has had a significant impact, shedding light on the influence of evangelicalism on politics and societal trends. In her latest project, the documentary For Our Daughters, Dr. Du Mez delves into the survivor-centered approach, highlighting the voices of abuse survivors within evangelical churches, particularly the Southern Baptist community. Through her extensive research and expertise, Dr. Du Mez offers a unique historical context, outlining the complex dynamics that have shaped the evangelical landscape and its impact on contemporary social issues, including the influence of Christian nationalism on U.S. elections. Her work continues to be an essential resource for educators and historians seeking to understand the evolving intersection of evangelicalism and politics. Watch the documentary For Our Daughters to hear the impactful stories of survivors and gain a deeper understanding of the abuse crisis in evangelical churches. Read Kristin Kobes Du Mez's book Jesus and John Wayne to gain historical insights into the intersection of gender, religion, and politics in evangelical spaces. Join the Difference Maker Community on Patreon to access exclusive interviews with Kristin Kobes Du Mez, where she unpacks specific calls to action. Visit Kristin's Substack Du Mez Connections for more of her writing and insights on gender, religion, and politics. Explore the resources and organizations listed on the For Our Daughters film website to support survivors and bring better practices to faith communities. Listen to EPS 39 where Dr. Du Mez discusses her book Jesus and John Wayne. The key moments in this episode are: 00:13:17 - Comparison of Evangelicalism and Politics 00:14:27 - Patterns of Support for Powerful Men 00:16:31 - Political and Hierarchical Networks 00:20:10 - Intersection of Evangelicalism and Politics 00:23:53 - Default Response to Abuse 00:27:46 - Survivor-Centered Approach 00:29:45 - The Power Dynamics Within Evangelicalism 00:30:44 - Recognizing the Prevalence of Predators 00:32:40 - Impact of the Film "For Our Daughters" 00:37:03 - Undecided Voters and the Importance of Democracy 00:42:31 - Advocating for Survivors and the Impact of Silence Podcast Social Media Links https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gospel Spice
Embracing the way of delight and gentleness | with Sally Clarkson

Gospel Spice

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2024 43:37


Stephanie welcomes Sally Clarkson to discuss her rich experiences in living a faith-filled life across various cultures. As both women share their journeys, the themes of community, self-awareness, and intentional delight arise, inviting us on the path of delight and gentleness, in the gentle spirit of Christ. Sally Clarkson's gentle wisdom, intimate reflections, and emphasis on intentional delight offer us a blueprint for a well-lived, faith-filled life. By fostering community, embracing one's uniqueness, and cultivating gentleness in everyday interactions, we can navigate life's challenges with grace and joy. Sally's book, "Well Lived," showcases how, through embracing various cultures, Sally grew to appreciate Scripture's wisdom, recognizing the universal need for love, truth, and grace transcending cultural boundaries. She emphasizes liking oneself and seeing one's uniqueness as part of God's creation. The discussion around Sally's book expanded into the concept of delight, especially important during challenging times. Sally shared about her friend Gwennie, an "emissary of delight," who celebrated Sally's birthday with thoughtfully pre-collected gifts even during financial hardship. This proactive approach to finding joy emphasizes the importance of intentionally creating "rhythms of delight" to counteract dark and difficult times, especially for women who often deplete their emotional reserves caring for others. Sally's practice of implementing delight into her family life serves as a defense against depression, emphasizing hope, beauty, and goodness. This proactive strategy replenishes emotional well-being and fosters a positive environment. Sally reflects on how gentleness developed within her through humility and God's presence during tough times. Christ's model of gentle nature serves as a guide, emphasizing humility and meekness in dealing with others, especially teenagers, who need understanding rather than correction. Wisdom and patience often grow through life experiences and God's stretching. The humorous insights Sally shares on personal growth, including her ongoing journey toward that elusive sinlessness, underline the continuous nature of spiritual maturation. Stephanie and Sally speak on the value of originality over imitation, using metaphors like zebras and Dalmatians to celebrate individual uniqueness. Sally shares a poignant story from her book about a chandelier shop, emphasizing that different lights (people) serve different purposes, yet all contribute to illuminating the community's collective purpose. Sally has lived in numerous countries, and she recounts her days in Oxford, where she found a vibrant community among expatriates. The common needs of finding doctors, grocery stores, and friendships bound people together in this academic town, many being students from different parts of the world. This shared sense of reliance fostered a unique sense of community. Sally's reflections highlight the human need for connection and the beauty found in mutual support and friendship. Stephanie echoed these sentiments, reflecting on her experiences in four different countries. She emphasized how immersing oneself in another culture leads to self-awareness and growth. MORE ABOUT “WELL LIVED” Write a Beautiful Story with Your Life You are invited to embark on a journey toward greater service, lasting significance, and wholehearted delight—a life truly well lived! In this transformative journey through heartfelt reflections and breathtaking photos, bestselling author Sally Clarkson explores how God's astounding grace empowers you to lead a joyful life loving and encouraging others. Drawing from her time in Oxford and years in ministry, she offers wisdom on the topics of discipleship, family, hospitality, and cultivating joy that will inspire you to invite God more fully into your own story. Wherever you are in your life's journey, Sally's encouraging insights will call you to deeper faith and guide you toward a life filled with direction, meaning, courage, and contentment. "Our way to this fruitful, flourishing, well-lived life comes when we willingly accept the mantle of devotion with a servant's heart full of love for Him— creating beauty again and again, loving, forgiving, sacrificing, pouring our lives out to bring light and redemption to our world every day.” In her new book Well Lived: Shaping a Legacy of Gratitude and Grace (Harvest House, October 8), bestselling author and top podcaster Sally Clarkson teaches us how to exchange the frantic pace of life and the temporary distractions and drainers around us for a slice of life she personally found tucked away in small town Oxford, England. Serving as her home-away-from-home, Oxford has allowed Sally to spend her time devoted to the things in life that truly matter, and she shares the extremely personal lessons and stories from her own life to invite readers to find their own – and become stronger in the process.  “Learning and understanding that every woman has potential to embrace her own story, to become ‘queen' of her own domain, to work hard to leave a legacy of wisdom, love, gratitude, and grace emerged as a message while I walked through the parks and meadows [of Oxford] and wrote in my journal,” Clarkson writes. “Women, I believe, are amazing creatures and have the ability to civilize the world, to influence generations by generously pouring out love, training the very character and souls of the next generation and persevering through great trials and challenges while coming out resiliently.” Despite the dreamy descriptions of her quaint cottage, heart-to-heart chats with friends over cups of tea, and long strolls along cobblestone streets, Sally's journey in Oxford isn't a complete fairytale. She chronicles the challenges she faced and the grace God has provided in the journey.  In her transparency, Sally walks readers through the temporary hardships that eventually lead to lasting contentment. From the ups and downs of motherhood and marriage, work and perseverance, to what it means to be a good friend, love God well, and be a light in the world, there is deep wisdom and heart on the pages of Well Lived.  Sally inspires women to think about their daily choices and the legacy they are leaving. Each person will make a unique imprint in life and we can choose to leave a legacy of love and encouragement in the lives of everyone we meet.  Readers will understand God's grace and desire to come into their lives by joining Sally on her own journey from her college dorm to present day, where she has spent years in ministry and relies on God as her constant companion. For Sally, that companionship is at the center of everything that makes her life well lived, and He will do the same for others, no matter where they are on their journeys or in their stories.  "Our way to this fruitful, flourishing, well-lived life comes when we willingly accept the mantle of devotion with a servant's heart full of love for Him—creating beauty again and again, loving, forgiving, sacrificing, pouring our lives out to bring light and redemption to our world every day.”  Sally's wisdom, encouragement and ability to level the playing field with her insightful and emotive writing will point readers to a life of meaning they may have not thought possible, especially if they are struggling or feel alone. MEET SALLY CLARKSON Here is what Sally wants to say to you: “To be clear, my site is not just about what I am and what I do, but about who I am and who I follow—a Christian woman, wife, and mother, living for Christ each day and sharing my journey of faith. That's “about” it. However, if you're anything like me, your interest in what I have to say will be inseparable from who I am. So, let me give you a brief “About Me” glimpse into my life. There's nothing I enjoy more than being with my family. Every time we gather for an afternoon teatime with candles, music, and a tasty morsel—whether it's just Clay and me, or the whole tribe—we re-enact a tradition that has occurred thousands of times in our more than four decades of being the Clarkson family. We talk, laugh, debate, cry, pray, and dream together about who we are, what we believe, what we're doing, and who we're becoming on our journeys of faith. I think perhaps all that tea has been a spiritual catalyzer for us! But even fueled with my strong Yorkshire Gold English tea, I could not have imagined as a young woman the life that lay ahead for me. Clay and I began our journey of marriage and life together on August 30, 1981. Like every young couple, we had dreams and hopes of what our future might hold. However, I could not foresee the ministry journey ahead for us, and for me—missions and church, starting Whole Heart Ministries, training families in church workshops, encouraging mothers in sixty hotel conferences over twenty years, serving moms and families internationally, writing or co-writing more than two dozen books, and personally encouraging countless women online through my blog, podcast, and “Life with Sally” membership community. And all that happened while I was also being a full-time wife and mother, a homemaker of the nineteen homes we've given life to in ten cities, and a home educating parent of my four precious children. We've moved from “we've only just begun,” to “look what God has done.” My children are all grown now and making their own places and marks in the world and around the world, but I still want to be around them—enjoying who they are, learning from what they're learning, sharing in their journeys with God (learn more about them on ClarksonFamily.com). I've always been a visionary idealist, probably a bit to my family's patient chagrin, so I will always have more thoughts and ideas to share, projects to pursue, people to meet, and things to do. Just a quick look at this website will reveal that I still enjoy sharing my heart on my podcast, offering help and hope on my blog, staying involved in my “Life with Sally” online community, and connecting with followers on Instagram and Facebook. And of course I still have several new books to share over the next few years.  But even in this full and new season of my life, I'm making conscious choices to slow down so I can enjoy some of the simpler things in life—long walks, good friends, grandchildren, reading, traveling, fellowship at lifegiving tables, and of course, those catalyzing family tea times. I'm still on the same journey of faith I began in college when I accepted Christ and have continued with Clay and my children as a family. I will be on that journey until it ends and I meet my Savior face to face. So, whether you're an old friend, or a new one, I'm glad you're here to share this journey of faith and hope with me. It's a long road and I welcome your company.” More at https://sallyclarkson.com/  We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!