Podcasts about new beginnings

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 278 The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 278 Epiphany, New Beginnings, and Looking Ahead Welcome to Episode 278 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, the Thinklings mark Epiphany (January 6)—the close of the Twelve Days of Christmas—with a thoughtful and forward-looking conversation. Alongside seasonal reflection, the Thinklings also talk about goals for 2026, considering how intention, wisdom, and faith shape the year ahead. Thanks for tuning in to this week's conversation!

In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Ramy Brook, founder of the fashion brand built on confidence, celebration, and feeling really good in what you wear. Ramy shares her incredible journey of starting her business at 42, turning a need for beautiful, wearable pieces into a globally recognized brand carried by Bergdorf's and Bloomingdale's. We get into the real behind-the-scenes of building a fashion business, trusting your instincts, learning from your customer, and why getting dressed can truly change how you feel. Plus, Ramy shares her approach to effortless, day-to-night style, one-and-done outfits, and using jewelry as the ultimate outfit elevator. This conversation is equal parts inspiring, practical, and empowering. Especially if you've ever felt like it might be "too late" to start something new. Thank you so much, Ramy Brook! Visit RamyBrook.com and use code WITHWHIT for 15% off your first purchase. This episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct, or indirect financial interest in products, or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear MediaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Hard Knox, Amanda is joined by her husband Chris for an intimate and surprisingly funny conversation about the practice of beginning again. Drawing from Zen practice, a New Year's fight, and a walk in the woods, they explore how noticing momentum in our thoughts, moods, and arguments can interrupt downward spirals, how compassion and physical connection can reset conflict, and why beginning again is not about erasing the past but choosing wisely in the present. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to transform personal struggles into soulful melodies? Want inspiration for your own fresh start in 2026? Join host Buzz Knight on this replay episode of takin' a walk as he engages in an inspiring music story with Charles Kelly, the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and founding member of the beloved country trio Lady A. Together, they delve deep into Kelly's musical journey, tracing his roots from Augusta, Georgia, to the heights of the music industry, where he has carved out a legacy filled with passion and resilience leading to the creation of iconic songs. As they walk through the pathways of Kelly's life, he shares stories of music and resilience about his experiences with sobriety and the invaluable lessons that have shaped both his character and his music. Listeners will be captivated by the insights he offers about his new solo album, Songs for a New Moon, a project that embodies his growth, optimism, and the joy that music brings into his life. Buzz Knight, known for his engaging music conversations, skillfully navigates the discussion, allowing Kelly to illuminate the creative process behind his latest work and the diverse musical genres that have influenced him over the years. Throughout this episode of takin' a walk, Charles Kelly emphasizes the importance of authenticity in music, revealing how his personal journey has informed his artistry. He reflects on the significance of gratitude and the joy of creating music, especially after overcoming personal challenges. As they stroll through memories and melodies, listeners will find themselves inspired by Kelly's uplifting narrative, which speaks to the heart of what it means to be a musician in today’s world. As the episode concludes, Kelly shares his thoughts on embracing new beginnings and the importance of enjoying the journey, both in music and in life. This inspiring music story is a must-listen for fans of country music, indie artists, and anyone interested in the stories behind albums and the emotional healing that music can provide. Tune in to this episode of takin' a walk for an enriching blend of music history insights, songwriter stories, and the vibrant tapestry of Kelly's life as a legendary musician. Don't miss out on this engaging episode filled with inspiring artist interviews and heartfelt music storytelling. Join Buzz Knight and Charles Kelly as they explore the transformative power of music, and discover how one man's journey can resonate with us all.Support the show: https://takinawalk.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trending with Timmerie guest Sal Di Stephano – hosts the most listened to fitness podcast in the world – Mind Pump. Episode Guide Revival & New Beginnings for Your Fitness Routine (1:55) Best thing to do to prevent osteoporosis (18:44) The importance of your kid’s fitness (25:01) Impact of probiotics on physical fitness (28:17) Yoga and the Catholic Faith (31:57) Alternative to injections for osteoporosis (36:00) The religious revival among Gen Z– more than a New Year's resolution (41:28) Resources mentioned: https://www.mindpumpmedia.com/ What’s wrong with Yoga – is it really just stretching? https://omny.fm/shows/trending-with-timmerie-catholic-principles-applied/is-yoga-really-just-stretching

Can a new day really mean a fresh start?In today's episode, host Richelle Alessi invites us to reflect on the beauty of new beginnings and God's unwavering faithfulness. Together, we'll explore how every morning brings a renewed opportunity to leave the past behind, embrace God's mercy, and set our hearts on pursuing His purpose for our lives, no matter what last year looked like. Drawing inspiration from Lamentations 3:22–23, we'll remind ourselves that His compassions are new every morning and great is His faithfulness to us.Let's join together as a community in prayer and devotion, seeking God's strength for the journey ahead and celebrating the gift of a fresh start, today and every day.Tap HERE to send us a text! BECOME A FOUNDING "MY MORNING DEVOTIONAL" MEMBERIf you enjoy your 5 minute daily dose of heaven, we would appreciate your support, and we have a fun way for you to partner with the MMD community! We've launched our "Buy Me a Coffee" membership where you can buy us a latte, OR become a founding member and get monthly bonus video episodes! To donate, go to mymorningdevo.co/join! Support the showNEW TO MY MORNING DEVOTIONAL? We're so glad you're here! We're the Alessis, a ministry family working together in a church in Miami, FL, and we're so blessed to partner with the My Morning Devotional community and continue the great work done by the show's creator and our friend, Alison Delamota.Join our Community Subscribe to the show on this app Share this with a friend Join our newsletter and get additional resources Follow Us on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Leave a review Support Our Friends and Family Connect with the original host of MMD Alison Delamota Follow our family podcast The Family Business with The Alessis Check out our Worship Music Hear the new music project "Praise the Lord EP" from Metro Life Worship and Mary AlessiListen on SpotifyWatch on YouTube

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Ever felt like you've been running someone else's race? If so, this episode is your permission slip to finally design your life in a way that fits who you are now, not who you were a decade ago. Welcome to the first edition of Design Your Life, Your Way – the podcast that's all about new beginnings after 50! When you tune in, you'll hear what led me to rebrand Live. Love. Engage. after 6 years and… Source

Happy New Year! There’s a space between the old and the new… and that space is where your power lives. On today’s episode of Like It Matters Radio, Mr. Black kicks off 2026 with a message of new beginnings, fresh perspective, and real momentum. If you’ve been carrying old patterns, old pain, or old distractions into a brand-new year, this episode will challenge you to mind the gap and step forward with purpose. Mr. Black breaks down why the battle is in the mind, why leaders must ask themselves the right questions, and why 2026 must become a year of understanding: understanding yourself, understanding others, and understanding how real change actually happens. From Viktor Frankl’s “space between stimulus and response,” to faith-driven leadership, to the science of habits and behavior change, this episode lays the foundation for what could become your strongest year yet. Enjoy today’s Inspiration, Education, and Application on Like It Matters Radio! Be sure to Like and Follow us on our facebook page! www.facebook.com/limradio Instagram @likeitmattersradio Twitter @likeitmatters Get daily inspiration from our blog www.wayofwarrior.blog Learn about our non profit work at www.givelikeitmatters.com Check out our training website www.LikeItMatters.Net Always available online at www.likeitmattersradio.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: A New Beginning: Siblings' Journey of Letting Go in Amsterdam Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2026-01-06-08-38-20-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De lucht buiten was grijs en ijzig.En: The sky outside was gray and icy.Nl: Zachte sneeuwvlokken vielen op de smalle stenen straten van Amsterdam.En: Soft snowflakes fell on the narrow stone streets of Amsterdam.Nl: Binnen in het theehuis knetterde een warm vuur in de haard en de geur van verse thee vulde de lucht.En: Inside the tea house, a warm fire crackled in the fireplace, and the scent of fresh tea filled the air.Nl: Marijn, Lotte en Sander zaten aan een ronde tafel bij het raam.En: Marijn, Lotte, and Sander sat at a round table by the window.Nl: De sfeer was gezellig, maar de spanning tussen de drie zussen en broer was voelbaar.En: The atmosphere was cozy, but the tension between the three sisters and brother was palpable.Nl: Marijn, de oudste, staarde naar de rij met indrukwekkende theeblikken.En: Marijn, the eldest, stared at the row of impressive tea tins.Nl: "We moeten het huis verkopen," zei hij eindelijk.En: "We have to sell the house," he finally said.Nl: Zijn stem klonk vastberaden.En: His voice sounded determined.Nl: "Het is tijd om verder te gaan."En: "It's time to move on."Nl: Lotte, de middelste, keek weg.En: Lotte, the middle one, looked away.Nl: "Maar het huis is onze geschiedenis," protesteerde zij.En: "But the house is our history," she protested.Nl: "Ik kan het niet zomaar opgeven."En: "I can't just give it up."Nl: Sander, de jongste en altijd avontuurlijk, keek naar buiten naar de vallende sneeuw.En: Sander, the youngest and always adventurous, looked outside at the falling snow.Nl: "We kunnen iets nieuws beginnen.En: "We can start something new.Nl: Iets goeds kan uit verandering komen."En: Something good can come from change."Nl: De wind buiten leek het stilzwijgen tussen hen te versterken.En: The wind outside seemed to amplify the silence between them.Nl: Marijn zuchtte.En: Marijn sighed.Nl: "Ik begrijp je gevoelens, Lotte, maar we moeten ook aan onze toekomst denken."En: "I understand your feelings, Lotte, but we also need to think about our future."Nl: Een serveerster bracht hun bestelling.En: A waitress brought their order.Nl: De geur van jasmijnthee vulde de lucht.En: The scent of jasmine tea filled the air.Nl: Even leek de warme drank de kou tussen hen te verzachten.En: For a moment, the warm drink seemed to soften the cold between them.Nl: Lotte beet in een stuk cake.En: Lotte bit into a piece of cake.Nl: Haar ogen werden vochtig.En: Her eyes became moist.Nl: "Herinner je je nog die winteravonden bij de open haard?En: "Do you remember those winter evenings by the fireplace?Nl: Allemaal samen?"En: All of us together?"Nl: Marijn knikte.En: Marijn nodded.Nl: "Ja, ik herinner me dat.En: "Yes, I remember that.Nl: Het was magisch.En: It was magical.Nl: Maar we kunnen niet ons hele leven in het verleden leven."En: But we can't live our entire lives in the past."Nl: Er volgde een moment van stilte.En: A moment of silence followed.Nl: Het geluid van zachte muziek vulde het theehuis terwijl klanten binnenkwamen en warme plaatsen zochten.En: The sound of soft music filled the tea house as customers entered and looked for warm places.Nl: Lotte keek haar broer en zus aan.En: Lotte looked at her brother and sister.Nl: "Misschien kunnen we iets bewaren," stelde ze voor.En: "Maybe we can keep something," she suggested.Nl: "Een paar dingen uit het huis."En: "A few things from the house."Nl: Sander glimlachte en gaf haar hand een bemoedigend kneepje.En: Sander smiled and gave her hand an encouraging squeeze.Nl: "We kunnen ook elk jaar samenkomen.En: "We can also gather every year.Nl: Een klein eerbetoon aan vroeger."En: A little tribute to the past."Nl: Marijn bedacht zich.En: Marijn reconsidered.Nl: Misschien was er toch een middenweg.En: Maybe there was a middle ground after all.Nl: "Goed," zei hij tenslotte.En: "Alright," he finally said.Nl: "We verkopen het huis, maar houden een paar herinneringen."En: "We sell the house, but keep a few memories."Nl: Onder de warme gloed van de lichten en het zachte geroezemoes van gesprekken vonden de drie een manier om samen verder te gaan.En: Under the warm glow of the lights and the soft murmur of conversations, the three found a way to move forward together.Nl: Ze deden een stap naar de toekomst, met de belofte om hun verleden te eren.En: They took a step toward the future, with the promise to honor their past.Nl: Buiten viel de sneeuw nog steeds zachtjes neer, de witte vlokken dansend in de avondlucht.En: Outside, the snow still fell gently, the white flakes dancing in the evening air.Nl: Binnen was er eindelijk rust in hun harten.En: Inside, there was finally peace in their hearts.Nl: De banden van hun verleden zouden hen altijd verbinden, ongeacht waar hun paden hen naartoe zouden brengen.En: The bonds of their past would always connect them, no matter where their paths would lead them.Nl: En zo begon hun nieuwjaarsreflectie, een nieuw begin ondersteund door herinneringen die nooit verloren zouden gaan.En: And so began their New Year's reflection, a new beginning supported by memories that would never be lost. Vocabulary Words:icy: ijzigsnowflakes: sneeuwvlokkennarrow: smallefireplace: haardtension: spanningpalpable: voelbaarimpressive: indrukwekkendedetermined: vastberadenprotested: protesteerdeadventurous: avontuurlijkamplify: versterkenmoist: vochtigmagical: magischtribute: eerbetoongather: samenkomenencouraging: bemoedigendsqueeze: kneepjeconsidered: bedachtmiddle ground: middenwegpromise: beloftereflection: nieuwjaarsreflectiesilence: stilzwijgensuccumb: opgevenlaugh: glimlachensupport: ondersteundcosy: gezelligrow: rijsoften: verzachtencherish: bewarenlegacy: geschiedenis

Courage comes from God's presence, not your own strength. You never step into the unknown alone — He goes before you and prepares the way. Trust the One who is already in your tomorrow, and move forward with confidence.

Fluent Fiction - Danish: Crafting Dreams: A Coffee Shop Tale of Chance and Creativity Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/da/episode/2026-01-06-23-34-02-da Story Transcript:Da: København var stille efter nytårsfejringerne.En: København was quiet after the New Year's celebrations.Da: Snefnug faldt blidt udenfor, og kulden pressede sig mod vinduerne i den lille kaffebar.En: Snowflakes gently fell outside, and the cold pressed against the windows of the small coffee shop.Da: Inde i Ristet Kaffekrog var stemningen varm.En: Inside Ristet Kaffekrog, the atmosphere was warm.Da: Den bløde belysning kastede et gyldent skær på de rustikke træborde.En: The soft lighting cast a golden glow on the rustic wooden tables.Da: Duften af friskbrygget kaffe fyldte luften og gav en følelse af hygge.En: The scent of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, providing a feeling of coziness.Da: Kasper sad ved et af de små borde og stirrede på den dampende kop foran sig.En: Kasper sat at one of the small tables, staring at the steaming cup in front of him.Da: Han rettede på sin skovmandsjakke og prøvede at dæmpe nervøsiteten.En: He adjusted his flannel jacket and tried to calm his nerves.Da: Det var ikke let for ham at sidde her, ventende på et interview, der kunne forme hans fremtid.En: It wasn't easy for him to sit here, waiting for an interview that could shape his future.Da: Drømmen om at blive fotograf var stor, men det krævede penge og tid.En: The dream of becoming a photographer was big, but it required money and time.Da: Derfor denne kaffebar, denne mulighed.En: Hence this coffee shop, this opportunity.Da: Freja, manageren, gik rundt og sørgede for, at alt i caféen kørte som smurt.En: Freja, the manager, walked around making sure everything in the café ran smoothly.Da: Hun kiggede interesseret på Kasper.En: She looked at Kasper with interest.Da: Hun kunne godt lide folk med originalitet og vilje, men hendes krav var klare: erfaring var et must.En: She liked people with originality and determination, but her requirements were clear: experience was a must.Da: Alligevel, der var noget ved Kaspers blik, noget der sagde entusiasme.En: Yet, there was something in Kasper's gaze, something that spoke of enthusiasm.Da: Endelig satte hun sig ned overfor ham, "Hej Kasper.En: Finally, she sat down across from him, "Hi Kasper.Da: Fortæl mig lidt om dig selv."En: Tell me a little about yourself."Da: Kasper trak vejret dybt, og begyndte at fortælle.En: Kasper took a deep breath and began to speak.Da: Ikke om hans mangel på erfaring, men om hans passion for kreativitet, om hans vilje til at lære hurtigt og skabe noget nyt.En: Not about his lack of experience, but about his passion for creativity, about his willingness to learn quickly and create something new.Da: Freja nikkede langsomt, lyttede opmærksomt.En: Freja nodded slowly, listening attentively.Da: "Hvordan kan du vise mig din kreativitet på stedet?"En: "How can you show me your creativity on the spot?"Da: spurgte Freja, udfordrende.En: Freja asked, challengingly.Da: Kasper tøvede kun et øjeblik før han svarede, "Giv mig lov til at lave en improviseret kaffedrik."En: Kasper hesitated only for a moment before replying, "Allow me to make an improvised coffee drink."Da: Frejas nysgerrighed blev vækket.En: Freja's curiosity was piqued.Da: Hun rejste sig og gik bag disken for at bringe ingredienserne.En: She got up and went behind the counter to gather the ingredients.Da: Mens Kasper arbejdede, følte han sin selvtillid vokse.En: As Kasper worked, he felt his confidence grow.Da: Han tilføjede en smule kanel, en skvæt honning, og eksperimenterede med et strejf af orange.En: He added a bit of cinnamon, a dash of honey, and experimented with a hint of orange.Da: Snart stod han med en varm, aromatisk drik.En: Soon, he stood with a warm, aromatic drink.Da: Freja smagte på drikken, og et lille smil bredte sig på hendes læber.En: Freja tasted the drink, and a small smile spread across her lips.Da: "Denne kaffe minder mig om varme vinteraftener," sagde hun.En: "This coffee reminds me of warm winter evenings," she said.Da: Efter en pause sagde hun, "Jeg vil give dig en chance, Kasper.En: After a pause, she said, "I want to give you a chance, Kasper.Da: Hvordan har du det med at begynde på en prøveperiode?"En: How do you feel about starting a trial period?"Da: Kasper åndede lettet op, glæden bredte sig i ham som en varm bølge.En: Kasper breathed a sigh of relief, joy spreading through him like a warm wave.Da: "Det ville jeg elske," svarede han.En: "I would love that," he replied.Da: Sneen dækkede stille byen udenfor.En: The snow quietly covered the city outside.Da: Indenfor, i Ristet Kaffekrog, blev en ny begyndelse knyttet.En: Inside, at Ristet Kaffekrog, a new beginning was taking shape.Da: Kasper lærte, at kreativitet kan åbne døre og Freja indså, at passion og vilje ofte er vigtigere end erfaring.En: Kasper learned that creativity can open doors, and Freja realized that passion and determination are often more important than experience.Da: Og midt i vinterkulden fandt de begge noget nyt at værdsætte.En: And amidst the winter cold, they both found something new to cherish. Vocabulary Words:quiet: stillecelebrations: fejringernesnowflakes: snefnuggently: blidtcoziness: hyggesteaming: dampendeflannel: skovmandsjakkeinterview: interviewopportunity: mulighedmanager: managerensmoothly: kørte som smurtrequirements: kraventhusiasm: entusiasmecreativity: kreativitetchallengingly: udfordrendeimprovised: improviseretcuriosity: nysgerrighedconfidence: selvtillidcinnamon: kaneldash: skvæthint: strejfaromatic: aromatisktrial period: prøveperioderelief: lettetwarm wave: varm bølgebeginning: begyndelseshape: formepassion: passiondetermination: viljecherish: værdsætte

Welcome back to another episode of Stay True Podcast! This week, Madi kicks off the new year with an honest and encouraging conversation about new beginnings, fresh goals, and the conviction that leads to lasting change. As we step into a brand-new year, Madi challenges listeners to shift their focus from surface-level resolutions to heart-level alignment with God. Together, Madi unpacks what it really means to make this your best year yet… not by doing more, but by surrendering more. From setting faith-centered goals to letting go of what no longer serves God's purpose in your life, this episode invites you to start the year grounded in truth, clarity, and obedience. Always remember to stay you and stay true.   Questions/topics discussed and answered: • What it actually means to make this year your best year • Why conviction leads to real transformation • How to set a goal that lasts • Letting go of idols, habits, mindsets, or expectations holding you back • Starting the year with faith, clarity, and purpose AND SO MUCH MORE!   Helpful Resources: Dare To Be True by Madison Prewett Troutt: https://a.co/d/gdfpHX5 Stay True Website: https://www.staytruepodcast.com Stay True Merch: https://www.staytruepodcast.com/merch Her Plan: Go to herplan.org/quiz to test your assumptions about abortion vulnerable women and learn how we can serve her better. Upside: Download the FREE Upside App and use promo code STAYTRUE to get an extra $0.25 back for every gallon on your first tank of gas. BetterHelp: This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at betterhelp.com/staytrue   Connect with Stay True!

Episode 264In this podcast, New York Times best-selling author and astrologer Chani Nicholas discusses the astrology of the week and what it might mean for us all.The astrology of the week of January 5th, 2026, is about planting seeds and making moves. Venus cozies up to the Sun, spotlighting where we need to invite more beauty, balance, and connection into our lives and relationships. Then Mars joins the party, pushing us to fight for our long-term goals. It's time to be relentless about what we want. You ready?This episode covers:The Venus cazimi on Tuesday, January 6thVenus' conjunction with Mars on Wednesday, January 7thThe Mars cazimi on Friday, January 9thVenus' opposition to Jupiter on Friday, January 9thThe Sun's opposition to Jupiter on Saturday, January 10thMars' opposition to Jupiter on Saturday, January 10thThis episode was recorded on 11/17/2025.For more, check out your free daily horoscope on the homepage of the CHANI app — now on iOS and Android.Want to know what Chani's reading beyond the astro? Join her book club, The Next Chapter, to explore her favorite titles and build community around books that reckon with and reimagine the world we're living in.Want to learn what 2026 has in store for you? Open your CHANI app and head to the “This Year” tab to listen to your month-by-month astro breakdowns from Chani Nicholas, read your horoscopes for the year (tailored to the four main areas of your life), and dive into the journal prompts, rituals, altar suggestions, and guided meditations that will help you navigate the astrology of 2026 as it unfolds. Btw, we're never wrong.The music featured in the podcast was created by Latashá.

In this episode, the hosts celebrate the New Year and reflect on their experiences during the peak season, sharing funny stories and mishaps involving helpers. They discuss the challenges faced during peak, including call-offs and the impact of weather. Looking ahead to 2026, they express excitement about plans for more guest appearances and the potential for merchandise, while also thanking their Patreon supporters for their continued engagement. www.patreon.com/aitdpod https://discord.gg/hm8WMUKVF8 Takeaways Thank you to our Patreon subscribers for their support. 2026 is officially underway, and the hosts are back recording weekly. The peak season brought many challenges, including desperate situations at centers. Funny stories from helpers highlight the unpredictable nature of delivery work. The hosts reflect on the difficulties of managing call-offs during peak season. Plans for 2026 include aiming for more guest appearances on the podcast. The hosts are excited about creating merchandise to engage with their community. They emphasize the importance of community and listener support. The hosts share humorous anecdotes about mishaps with helpers. The episode concludes with a positive outlook for the new year.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and New Beginnings 02:55 Peak Season Reflections and Challenges 06:06 Unexpected Work Calls and Responsibilities 09:12 Personal Stories: Family and Health 12:04 Humorous Helper Stories 14:56 Cat Care Mishaps 17:47 The Value of Customer Appreciation 21:07 Bizarre Delivery Experiences 25:39 Helper Stories and Anecdotes 33:13 Reflections on Peak Season Challenges 36:46 Unique Analogies and Insights 39:11 Plans for 2026 and Future Guests 42:25 Merchandise and Community Engagement Keywords podcast, delivery, peak season, funny stories, UPS, community, Patreon, helper stories, 2026 plans, merchandise   THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED OR VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THIS PODCAST ARE THOSE OF THE HOSTS AND GUESTS AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT ANY DELIVERY COMPANY      

Our God is the God of new beginnings. In this message, we explore how the Lord does His best work when we make space for Him. This is done through prayer, fasting, and realignment of our hearts. This is why at at Oasis our vision is to know God, grow healthy, discover purpose, and make a difference. STAY CONNECTED Website: www.oasisphx.comFacebook: Oasis Community ChurchInstagram: @oasisphx

Libby Ran 05/01/2026 Nordic Fairies - New Beginnings - פיות נורדיות 138 HILLARI - New Beginnings (Norway) Killen., Izza Gara  - Fear Me (Sweden) The Kind - Take Time - Tiger Lou Remix (Sweden) April Snow - Guts - From the TV-series “Guts” (Sweden) Sauna Senere, pære banal - Hvad sku' det være (Denmark) Phogg - Wild Phone Appears (Sweden) Phogg - The Moist Distant Power (Sweden) Black Albino - Monkey business (Sweden) Club 8 - Daydreams (Sweden) Dicey Hollow, Alberta Cross - The Fool (Sweden, UK) Mono Martian, Iris Stardust - Back To Me (Norway) Klossmajor - Sunt sinn (Norway) flora cash - WHAT IS WRONG (Sweden, USA) April Snow, Irya Gmeyner - A Part of Me (Sweden) Mercedess - affirmations (Denmark) REXEN - I Can See You (Denmark) The School Book Depository - New England (Billy Bragg Cover) (Sweden) Winona Oak - Horses (Sweden) Lauri Porra, Lahti Symphony Orchestra, Kristian Sallinen - Where The Mountains Meet (Finland)

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: From Allergies to Artistry: A Winter's Day in Amsterdam Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2026-01-05-08-38-19-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De winterzon scheen zacht op de drukke Markt.En: The winter sun shone softly on the busy Markt.Nl: De lucht was koud maar verfrissend, en overal klonk vrolijk geroezemoes.En: The air was cold but refreshing, and cheerful murmuring sounded everywhere.Nl: Het was Nieuwjaarsdag, en de straten van Amsterdam waren gevuld met lachende mensen en versierde kraampjes.En: It was New Year's Day, and the streets of Amsterdam were filled with smiling people and decorated stalls.Nl: De geur van warme chocolademelk en kaneel hing in de lucht.En: The aroma of hot chocolate and cinnamon hung in the air.Nl: Bram stond bij een kleine, houten kraam.En: Bram stood by a small wooden stall.Nl: Zijn hart klopte snel.En: His heart was beating fast.Nl: Vandaag zou hij zijn kunst voor het eerst aan het publiek tonen.En: Today, he would show his art to the public for the first time.Nl: Zijn schilderijen stonden geordend op ezels, klaar om bewonderd te worden.En: His paintings were arranged on easels, ready to be admired.Nl: Maar er was één probleem: Bram had last van allergieën.En: But there was one problem: Bram was suffering from allergies.Nl: Zijn neus kriebelde, en zijn ogen traanden wat.En: His nose tickled, and his eyes teared up a bit.Nl: Sanne, zijn vrolijke en altijd optimistische vriendin, stond naast hem.En: Sanne, his cheerful and always optimistic girlfriend, stood next to him.Nl: "Je kunt het, Bram!"En: "You can do it, Bram!"Nl: zei ze enthousiast.En: she said enthusiastically.Nl: "Het gaat geweldig worden."En: "It's going to be great."Nl: Naast hen was Lotte bezig met haar act.En: Next to them, Lotte was busy with her act.Nl: Ze jongleerde met felgekleurde ballen, en trok een kleine menigte aan.En: She was juggling brightly colored balls and attracted a small crowd.Nl: Ze bracht leven op de markt met haar energieke optreden.En: She brought life to the market with her energetic performance.Nl: Lotte was nog nieuw in de stad, maar leek al helemaal thuis.En: Lotte was still new to the city but already seemed completely at home.Nl: Plotseling voelde Bram zijn keel samenknijpen.En: Suddenly, Bram felt his throat tighten.Nl: Hij greep naar zijn zakdoek.En: He reached for his handkerchief.Nl: "Niet nu," dacht hij paniekerig.En: "Not now," he thought in panic.Nl: Sanne merkte meteen dat er iets mis was en liep snel naar hem toe.En: Sanne immediately noticed something was wrong and quickly went to him.Nl: "Bram, gaat het?"En: "Bram, are you okay?"Nl: vroeg ze bezorgd.En: she asked worriedly.Nl: "I-ik denk dat het niet goed gaat," stamelde Bram met een schorre stem.En: "I-I think it's not going well," Bram stammered with a hoarse voice.Nl: Lotte zag het ook.En: Lotte saw it too.Nl: Ze liet haar jongleerballen vallen en kwam erbij.En: She dropped her juggling balls and came over.Nl: "Ik weet een plek waar je kruiden kan halen die helpen," zei ze.En: "I know a place where you can get herbs that help," she said.Nl: "Kom mee, snel!"En: "Come on, quickly!"Nl: Ze haasten zich door de menigte naar een kruidenkraam.En: They hurried through the crowd to an herb stand.Nl: De verkoopster, een vriendelijke dame, hielp snel.En: The vendor, a friendly lady, quickly assisted.Nl: "Probeer dit," zei ze en gaf Bram een glas met warme thee.En: "Try this," she said, handing Bram a glass of warm tea.Nl: De geur was sterk, maar het kalmeerde zijn keel.En: The aroma was strong, but it soothed his throat.Nl: Met enige moeite keerde Bram terug naar zijn kraam.En: With some effort, Bram returned to his stall.Nl: Hij voelde zich nog steeds wat zwak, maar hij wilde zijn kunst niet opgeven.En: He still felt a bit weak, but he didn't want to give up on his art.Nl: Sanne en Lotte stonden aan zijn zijde en hielpen hem moed verzamelen.En: Sanne and Lotte stood by his side, helping him gather courage.Nl: Het duurde niet lang voordat de eerste bezoekers nieuwsgierig naar de schilderijen begonnen te kijken.En: It didn't take long before the first visitors began to look curiously at the paintings.Nl: Bram voelde zijn zelfvertrouwen langzaam groeien.En: Bram felt his confidence slowly grow.Nl: Mensen stopten en bewonderden vanaf een afstandje, sommigen maakten zelfs foto's.En: People stopped and admired from a distance, some even taking pictures.Nl: Sanne glimlachte breed en klapte in haar handen.En: Sanne smiled broadly and clapped her hands.Nl: Aan het einde van de dag was Bram uitgeput, maar ook trots.En: By the end of the day, Bram was exhausted, but also proud.Nl: Hij had het toch gedaan.En: He had done it.Nl: Hij glimlachte naar Sanne en Lotte.En: He smiled at Sanne and Lotte.Nl: "Dank jullie wel," zei hij dankbaar.En: "Thank you," he said gratefully.Nl: "Zonder jullie had ik dit nooit gedaan."En: "I couldn't have done this without you."Nl: Terwijl de lichten van de kraampjes één voor één uitgingen, zag Bram zijn schilderijen in een nieuw licht.En: As the lights of the stalls went out one by one, Bram saw his paintings in a new light.Nl: Ze waren niet langer alleen maar stillevens.En: They were no longer just still lifes.Nl: Ze waren nu verhalen, gedeeld met de wereld.En: They were now stories, shared with the world.Nl: Deze ervaring veranderde Bram.En: This experience changed Bram.Nl: Hij begreep dat zijn kunst de moeite waard was om te delen.En: He understood that his art was worth sharing.Nl: Met een hernieuwd vertrouwen keek hij de toekomst in.En: With renewed confidence, he looked into the future.Nl: Het begin van zijn kunstenaarspad was gezet, op die drukke winterdag in de levendige Markt van Amsterdam.En: The beginning of his artist's path was set on that busy winter day in the lively Markt of Amsterdam. Vocabulary Words:softly: zachtrefreshing: verfrissendmurmuring: geroezemoesdecorated: versierdearoma: geurstall: kraamadmired: bewonderdallergies: allergieëntickled: kriebeldeteared: traandenoptimistic: optimistischejuggling: jongleerdecrowd: menigteenergetic: energiekeperformance: optredentighten: samenknijpenhandkerchief: zakdoekpanic: paniekerighoarse: schorrevendors: verkopersherbs: kruidensoothed: kalmeerdeeffort: moeitevisitors: bezoekersconfidence: zelfvertrouwenexhausted: uitgeputproud: trotsgratefully: dankbaarshared: gedeeldrenewed: hernieuwd

Fluent Fiction - Hungarian: Embracing Change: A Friendship in the Winter Snow Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hu/episode/2026-01-05-23-34-02-hu Story Transcript:Hu: Bálint csendben figyelt a kavargó hópelyhekre, ahogy a busz ablakán túl hullottak a földre.En: Bálint quietly watched the swirling snowflakes as they fell to the ground beyond the bus window.Hu: Egy új év kezdődött, és ez alkalommal valami más volt.En: A new year had begun, and this time something was different.Hu: Már napok óta érezte, hogy a barátságuk Emesével megváltozott, és ezt nem tudta figyelmen kívül hagyni.En: For days, he had felt that his friendship with Emese had changed, and he couldn't ignore it.Hu: Tudta, hogy a Széchenyi Termálfürdőben eltöltött újévi napjuk megfelelő alkalom lesz a beszélgetésre.En: He knew that their New Year's day at the Széchenyi Termálfürdő would be the perfect opportunity to talk.Hu: A fürdő varázslatos volt télen, a neo-barokk épület pompájában ragyogott, miközben a meleg víz és a környező hó éles kontrasztot alkotott.En: The bath was magical in the winter, the neo-baroque building gleamed in its splendor, while the warm water and the surrounding snow created a sharp contrast.Hu: Amikor megérkeztek, Emese mosollyal köszöntötte Bálintot.En: When they arrived, Emese greeted Bálint with a smile.Hu: Vidám volt, mint mindig, de Bálint észrevette a mosoly mögötti árnyékot.En: She was cheerful as always, but Bálint noticed the shadow behind the smile.Hu: Bekértek a termálmedencébe, és a forró, gőzölgő víz körülölelte őket.En: They entered the thermal pool, and the hot, steaming water enveloped them.Hu: Emese anekdotákat mesélt a munkájáról, de Bálint már máshol jártak a gondolatai.En: Emese shared anecdotes about her work, but Bálint's thoughts were elsewhere.Hu: Végül megszólalt, halk, de határozott hangon.En: Finally, he spoke, his voice quiet but firm.Hu: „Emese, szeretnék veled beszélni. Észrevettem, hogy mostanában távolságtartóbb vagy. Mi történt? Tudom, hogy van valami, amiről nem beszéltünk.”En: “Emese, I'd like to talk to you. I've noticed you've been more distant recently. What happened? I know there's something we haven't discussed.”Hu: A medence vize csendesen bugyborékolt körülöttük.En: The water in the pool bubbled quietly around them.Hu: Emese kissé elfordította a fejét.En: Emese slightly turned her head.Hu: „Bálint, van valami, amit nem mondtam el. Ez nehéz... De már nem titkolhatom tovább.”En: “Bálint, there's something I haven't told you. It's difficult… But I can't keep it a secret anymore.”Hu: Bálint nyakon találta a feszült kíváncsiság.En: Bálint was caught by tense curiosity.Hu: Emese mély levegőt vett, majd elmagyarázta, hogy mostanában kapott ajánlatott egy munkára külföldön.En: Emese took a deep breath and then explained that she had recently received a job offer abroad.Hu: Nem volt biztos abban, hogy elfogadja, mert félt, hogy mi lesz a barátságukkal.En: She wasn't sure whether to accept it because she feared what would happen to their friendship.Hu: A levegő megfagyott egy pillanatra, bár a gőz melegen körülfogta őket.En: The air froze for a moment, even though the steam warmly surrounded them.Hu: Bálintnak némán másodpercek kellettek, hogy feldolgozza a hallottakat.En: It took Bálint silent seconds to process what he had heard.Hu: De amikor megszólalt, hangja lágy volt és megnyugtató.En: But when he spoke, his voice was soft and reassuring.Hu: „Emese, bármit is döntesz, a barátságunk ennél erősebb.En: “Emese, whatever you decide, our friendship is stronger than this.Hu: Csak azt szeretném, hogy boldog legyél, bárhol is légy.”En: I just want you to be happy, wherever you are.”Hu: Emese szemeiben megkönnyebbülés csillant, és a kis félelem, ami addig ott lapult, elszállt.En: Relief sparkled in Emese's eyes, and the little fear that had been lurking there dissipated.Hu: A víz körülvette őket, mintha a természet is áldását adná újévi elhatározásaikra.En: The water surrounded them as if nature itself was blessing their New Year's resolutions.Hu: Bálint érezte, hogy megváltozott.En: Bálint felt changed.Hu: Már nem félt a változástól.En: He was no longer afraid of change.Hu: A barátságuk mindent kibírt, és újra látta annak szépségét.En: Their friendship had endured everything, and he saw its beauty anew.Hu: A nap végén, amikor kiléptek a fürdőből a hófödte utcára, Bálint megfogta Emese kezét.En: At the end of the day, as they stepped out of the bath onto the snow-covered street, Bálint took Emese's hand.Hu: „Új év, új kezdetek.En: “New year, new beginnings.Hu: Mindketten tanulni fogunk, és én itt leszek, bárhogy is alakul.”En: We will both learn, and I will be here, no matter what happens.”Hu: Boldogan nevettek, ahogy elindultak hazafelé, szívükben melegséggel telve.En: They laughed happily as they headed home, their hearts filled with warmth.Hu: Az új év ígéretes volt.En: The new year was full of promise. Vocabulary Words:swirling: kavargóignore: figyelmen kívül hagyniopportunity: alkalomsplendor: pompacontrast: kontrasztgreeted: köszöntöttecheerful: vidámanecdotes: anekdotákdistant: távolságtartóbubbled: bugyborékoltslightly: némitense: feszültcuriosity: kíváncsiságjob offer: munka ajánlatabroad: külföldprocess: feldolgoznireassuring: megnyugtatórelief: megkönnyebbüléslurking: lapuldissipated: elszálltblessing: áldásendured: kibírtbeauty: szépségstep out: kilépfilled: telepromise: ígérettwilight: alkonyresolve: elhatározásembrace: ölelésglimmer: csillan

Take a peek outside your window and, wow, it's like the universe decided to throw us into the wildest sci-fi mashup ever. We've got whispers of global conflict, aliens making headlines (seriously!), AI popping up everywhere you look, drones and robots straight outta Terminator, political drama that feels more like a thriller than reality, quantum tech threatening to flip everything upside down—and let's not forget those rumblings of civil unrest in places we never thought we'd see it.If your head's spinning just reading that list, you're not alone. But hey—maybe all this chaos is just the cosmic nudge we need to wake up and start weaving some real magic together.It feels like we're headed towards the climax of a movie that 8 billion of us came to Earth to witness and participate in…So what's actually going on, and how can you prepare yourself for what's coming?Simply put, we're entering the final climactic years of the Fourth Turning, and things are about to get serious…In other words…Buckle-up Dorthy Because This Is Going To Be One Heck Of A Ride…The Speed of Change and the Stagnation WithinWe live in a world where knowledge and technology evolve at breakneck speed—a phenomenon some call the “fourth turning,” a time of societal upheaval unlike anything since the Industrial Revolution. With so much shifting around us, it's no wonder many of us feel overwhelmed. Yet, paradoxically, while we adapt to external change, we often cling to outdated stories about ourselves: who we are, what we're capable of, and what we deserve. These internal narratives—rooted in fear, scarcity, or learned helplessness—can trap us in cycles of stagnation, even as the world races forward.But here's the truth: this moment of collective uncertainty is also an invitation. A chance to question the stories we've told ourselves and rewrite them. The Illusion of “Who We Are”Think about the beliefs you've carried for years. Maybe it's the voice that says, “I'm not good enough,” or “Money/love/success is always out of reach.” These aren't truths—they're narratives we've absorbed, often unconsciously, from family, culture, or past experiences.As I realized while chatting with my mom recently, many of us choose these limiting beliefs without even realizing it. I showed her a minimalist purse, symbolizing the freedom I've found in simplifying my life. “I don't just have simplicity,” I told her. “I choose it daily.” That conversation struck me: we're not trapped by circumstance—we're trapped by unconscious choices.From Collective Collapse to Personal AwakeningHistorically, periods of societal breakdown (what some call “civilization collapses”) have led to rebirth. We're in one now—a “nine-year cycle” culminating in what many see as a symbolic “Year of New Beginnings.” If the collective story of our world is shifting, why not our personal stories?If we've been taught that life is “hard,” “scarcity-driven,” or “unfair,” we've internalized a false reality. But just because we absorbed these ideas as children doesn't mean they're true. The first step to change is recognizing that you did choose these beliefs—unconsciously—and now, you can choose anew.Escaping the Poverty Mindset: Beyond “Learned Helplessness”Psychologist Martin Seligman coined the term learned helplessness to describe when people feel they have no control over their lives. This mindset isn't just about money—it's a mental trap that says, “Why try? Nothing changes.”But here's the good news: this is a choice you can undo. You didn't have to believe life is “difficult” or “not enough.” You learned it. And now, you can unlearn it.Take minimalism, for example. My mom and I both choose simplicity not because we lack, but because it frees us to focus on what truly matters. Financial abundance isn't the goal—it's a tool to create impact. The key is shifting from scarcity to choice.The Power of Conscious ChoiceThe most transformative decisions aren't grand gestures—they're daily acts of reclamation. Every morning, you choose:* Will I believe my worth is tied to my bank account?* Or will I trust my potential is infinite, regardless of circumstances?As we step into this new year (or a symbolic “Year of the Horse,” a time of renewal), I invite you to envision a reality aligned with your deepest potential. Picture yourself unburdened by fear, creating the life you've imagined but never dared to claim.Tools for Transformation: The Light Between OracleIf anxiety or self-doubt holds you back, consider exploring tools like the Light Between Oracle. Designed to guide reflective dialogue, it helps you:* Uncover hidden beliefs that limit you.* Replace fear with curiosity.* Discover unexpected paths forward.This isn't about magic—it's about reconnecting with your innate creativity and choice. By engaging in intentional conversation (with yourself or through guided prompts), you begin to see life not as a series of constraints, but as a canvas of possibility.Conclusion: Your New Year's InvitationThis is your moment. The world is changing, and so can you. You don't need to “fix” anything—just choose differently. Start small:* Question one belief that feels heavy (e.g., “I'm not enough”).* Write a new story (e.g., “I am worthy of abundance and joy”).* Take one action aligned with that truth.As we close this year and step into the next, I wish you the courage to rewrite your narrative. May you walk with a clear mind, an untethered soul, and the unwavering knowing: you are not a victim of your past—you are the author of your future.Wishing you a year of conscious choices, boundless curiosity, and the life you've always imagined.With warmth and belief in your potentialLove, Kassandra This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thelightbetween.substack.com/subscribe

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Epiphany in Rome: Rekindling Friendship and New Beginnings Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-01-05-08-38-20-it Story Transcript:It: Le luci natalizie brillavano su Campo de' Fiori, creando un'atmosfera magica nelle serate di gennaio.En: The Christmas lights sparkled over Campo de' Fiori, creating a magical atmosphere on January evenings.It: Era un giorno speciale: l'Epifania.En: It was a special day: the Epiphany.It: Le bancarelle erano ricche di prodotti tipici, dalle calze della Befana alle caldarroste profumate.En: The stalls were filled with traditional products, from la Befana's stockings to fragrant roasted chestnuts.It: Appariva un cielo limpido ma gelido sopra Roma.En: A clear but freezing sky appeared above Rome.It: Giulia camminava tra la folla, il cuore diviso tra l'eccitazione e la curiosità di rivedere i suoi amici d'infanzia dopo tanto tempo passato a studiare all'estero.En: Giulia walked through the crowd, her heart torn between excitement and the curiosity of seeing her childhood friends again after spending so much time studying abroad.It: Indossava una sciarpa rossa e un cappotto nero.En: She wore a red scarf and a black coat.It: Il profumo di spezie che riempiva l'aria era confortante ma anche nostalgico.En: The scent of spices that filled the air was comforting yet nostalgic.It: All'improvviso, sentì una voce familiare: “Giulia!” Si voltò e vide Enrico e Alessandro che la salutavano con grandi sorrisi.En: Suddenly, she heard a familiar voice: “Giulia!” She turned and saw Enrico and Alessandro waving at her with big smiles.It: Si abbracciarono calorosamente, scambiando i classici saluti italiani tra baci sulle guance e pacche amichevoli.En: They embraced warmly, exchanging the classic Italian greetings with cheek kisses and friendly pats.It: Alessandro, sempre allegro, disse: “Finalmente sei tornata!En: Alessandro, always cheerful, said: “Finally, you're back!It: Campo de' Fiori è ancora più bello con te qui!” Iniziarono a camminare insieme tra le bancarelle, assaggiando dolci e comprando piccole cose.En: Campo de' Fiori is even more beautiful with you here!” They started walking together among the stalls, tasting sweets and buying little things.It: Giulia osservava Enrico.En: Giulia observed Enrico.It: Era cresciuto, ma il suo sguardo era sempre lo stesso, sincero e rassicurante.En: He had grown, but his gaze was still the same, sincere and reassuring.It: Mentre chiacchieravano, Giulia si accorse che qualcosa dentro di lei si risvegliava.En: As they chatted, Giulia realized that something inside her was awakening.It: Dopo un po', Alessandro si fermò per comprare dei dolci da una bancarella.En: After a while, Alessandro stopped to buy sweets from a stall.It: Questo lasciò Giulia ed Enrico soli.En: This left Giulia and Enrico alone.It: Enrico prese un respiro profondo e disse: “Giulia, c'è una cosa che volevo dirti da tanto tempo.” Giulia lo guardò, sorpresa e curiosa.En: Enrico took a deep breath and said: “Giulia, there's something I've wanted to tell you for a long time.” Giulia looked at him, surprised and curious.It: “Enrico, cosa c'è?” “Ho sempre avuto dei sentimenti per te,” confessò lui, guardando il pavimento imbarazzato.En: “Enrico, what is it?” “I've always had feelings for you,” he confessed, looking at the ground embarrassed.It: “Non sapevo se dirtelo, ma ora non volevo perdere l'occasione.” Giulia restò in silenzio per un attimo, colpita dalle sue parole.En: “I didn't know if I should tell you, but I didn't want to miss the chance.” Giulia remained silent for a moment, struck by his words.It: Guardò Enrico negli occhi e rispose: “Anch'io sento che c'è qualcosa di speciale tra noi.En: She looked into Enrico's eyes and replied: “I also feel that there's something special between us.It: Non so cosa porterà il futuro, ma vorrei scoprirlo insieme.” Il viso di Enrico si illuminò di speranza.En: I don't know what the future holds, but I'd like to discover it together.” Enrico's face lit up with hope.It: Sapeva che poteva fidarsi di quei momenti autentici tra amici di vecchia data.En: He knew he could trust those authentic moments between long-time friends.It: Alessandro tornò in quel momento con i dolci, ignaro della conversazione appena avvenuta.En: Alessandro returned at that moment with the sweets, unaware of the conversation that had just taken place.It: I tre continuarono a girare per il mercato, ma ora c'era una nuova energia tra Giulia ed Enrico.En: The three continued to wander through the market, but now there was a new energy between Giulia and Enrico.It: La tensione svanì, lasciando spazio a una promessa di nuove esperienze e legami più profondi.En: The tension vanished, leaving room for a promise of new experiences and deeper connections.It: La serata si concluse con loro che si promettevano di rivedersi presto, per condividere nuove avventure.En: The evening ended with them promising to meet again soon, to share new adventures.It: Giulia salì le scale del treno diretta a casa sua, pensando che, nonostante tutto, certe cose non cambiano mai davvero.En: Giulia climbed the steps of the train heading to her home, thinking that, despite everything, some things never really change.It: Aveva lasciato Roma come una ragazza timorosa e ora tornava più sicura di sé e aperta ai sentimenti che aveva sempre temuto di esprimere.En: She had left Rome as a timid girl and was returning more confident and open to the feelings she had always been afraid to express.It: Così, sotto un cielo stellato, iniziò un nuovo capitolo della loro amicizia, mentre Campo de' Fiori continuava a pulsare di vita nella gelida notte romana.En: Thus, under a starry sky, a new chapter of their friendship began, while Campo de' Fiori continued to pulse with life in the chilly Roman night. Vocabulary Words:the lights: le lucithe atmosphere: l'atmosferathe stalls: le bancarellefragrant: profumatethe sky: il cielofreezing: gelidothe heart: il cuoreexcitement: l'eccitazionenostalgic: nostalgicothe crowd: la follared: rossathe scarf: la sciarpathe coat: il cappottothe breath: il respiroembarrassed: imbarazzatoauthentic: autenticithe gaze: lo sguardosincere: sinceroreassuring: rassicuranteto awaken: risvegliarsito confess: confessareto wander: girareto vanish: svanirethe hope: la speranzato share: condividereconfident: sicura di séthe childhood: l'infanziathe train: il trenotimid: timorosato climb: salire

Instead of asking who we need to become at the start of a new year, Epiphany invites us to look for where the light is already. Scripture: John 1:1-18Worship guide: www.tinyurl.com/fbcjc1-4p 

New beginnings often come with mixed emotions. While we long for what’s fresh and restored, stepping into something new usually requires letting go of what’s familiar—even when it’s uncomfortable or painful. This devotional paints that picture through a story of a guarded man who finds healing when he chooses forgiveness, community, and courage over isolation. His journey reflects a deeper spiritual truth: new life almost always involves release before renewal. Scripture reminds us that following Christ means intentionally setting aside old ways of thinking, behaving, and believing. That process can feel like a kind of death—dying to habits and identities that once defined us. But just as Christ’s death made resurrection possible, our willingness to surrender the old self opens the door to the new life God has promised. Salvation may be a one-time event, but living it out is a daily decision. Putting on the “new self” is not passive. It’s a repeated choice to live according to who God says we are, even when it feels costly or unfamiliar. New beginnings may stretch us, require sacrifice, or invite us into situations we’d rather avoid—but we never walk that path alone. God goes before us, walks beside us, and empowers us by His Spirit. Because of Christ, we can move forward with confidence, trusting that the God of new beginnings is faithful to complete what He has started. Main Takeaways New beginnings often require letting go of old habits, attitudes, or identities. Following Christ involves an intentional, daily choice to live as a new creation. Growth can be uncomfortable, but it is necessary for spiritual renewal. Christ’s death and resurrection make our new life possible. God walks with us into every new beginning, empowering us by His Spirit. Today’s Bible Verse: Ephesians 4:22–24 Your Daily Prayer “Lord, help me to put on my new self daily and lay aside my old ways of sin, including patterns of thinking and behaviors that are contrary to Your will.” Looking for more daily encouragement and faith-filled content? LifeAudio – Discover daily devotionals, Christian podcasts, and biblical encouragement at LifeAudio.com Crosswalk – Explore faith, prayer, and Christian living resources at Crosswalk.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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This powerful message about new beginnings challenges us to move beyond simply trying to fix our old patterns and instead embrace the transformative work God wants to do in our lives. Drawing from Isaiah's prophetic declaration that God is 'about to do something new,' we're reminded that even when we've disobeyed, failed, or wandered far from God's path, He still extends an invitation to experience radical transformation.https://lifechurchww.cls.co/cbRWWebsite | https://lifechurchww.comFacebook | https://facebook.com/lifechurchwwInstagram | https://instagram.com/lifechurchwwVida Music | https://vidamsc.com

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Love on Ice: A Winter Encounter in Vondelpark Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2026-01-04-23-34-01-nl Story Transcript:Nl: In Vondelpark, Amsterdam, waar de lucht grijs is en het geluid van schaatsen over ijs door alles om je heen weerkaatst, ontmoeten Sanne en Bram elkaar.En: In Vondelpark, Amsterdam, where the sky is gray and the sound of skates on ice echoes all around you, Sanne and Bram meet each other.Nl: Het is winter, en de bomen hebben hun bladeren verloren.En: It is winter, and the trees have lost their leaves.Nl: De sneeuw bedekt het gras en het pad dat slingert rondom de vijver.En: The snow covers the grass and the path that winds around the pond.Nl: Sanne, een bedachtzame rechtenstudent, komt hier vaak om te schaatsen.En: Sanne, a thoughtful law student, often comes here to skate.Nl: Ze geniet van de rust en kan zo haar gedachten ordenen.En: She enjoys the tranquility and can organize her thoughts like this.Nl: Na een jaar van stress, verlangde ze naar verandering.En: After a year of stress, she longed for change.Nl: Terwijl ze over het ijs glijdt, ademt ze de frisse lucht in.En: As she glides over the ice, she breathes in the fresh air.Nl: Schaatsen helpt haar ontspannen, even alles vergeten.En: Skating helps her relax, to forget everything for a moment.Nl: Bram is er ook.En: Bram is there too.Nl: Hij is een avontuurlijke grafisch ontwerper die graag inspiratie vindt in de natuur.En: He is an adventurous graphic designer who likes to find inspiration in nature.Nl: Zijn werk slokt hem vaak op, maar vandaag heeft hij tijd gemaakt om te schaatsen.En: His work often consumes him, but today he has made time to skate.Nl: Schaatsen en de spontane energie van de winter houden hem fris.En: Skating and the spontaneous energy of winter keep him fresh.Nl: Op deze koude dag kruisen hun paden.En: On this cold day, their paths cross.Nl: Sanne probeert een pirouette en valt, precies voor Bram.En: Sanne tries a pirouette and falls, right in front of Bram.Nl: Hij lacht en steekt zijn hand uit om haar te helpen opstaan.En: He laughs and extends his hand to help her up.Nl: "Ha, een nieuwe dansstijl?" zegt Bram, zijn ogen lachen vriendelijk.En: "Ha, a new dance style?" Bram says, his eyes smiling kindly.Nl: Sanne glimlacht terug, ondanks de schaamte.En: Sanne smiles back, despite the embarrassment.Nl: "Zoiets," antwoordt ze verlegen.En: "Something like that," she replies shyly.Nl: Het ijs breekt letterlijk en figuurlijk.En: The ice breaks literally and figuratively.Nl: Ze beginnen te praten, aanvankelijk over schaatsen, maar dan stroomt het gesprek vanzelf verder.En: They begin to talk, initially about skating, but then the conversation flows naturally.Nl: Bram vertelt over zijn passie voor design en hoe hij vaak de balans kwijt is tussen werk en privé.En: Bram talks about his passion for design and how he often loses the balance between work and personal life.Nl: Sanne voelt een zekere herkenning in zijn woorden.En: Sanne feels a certain recognition in his words.Nl: Ook zij heeft moeite om in contact te komen met anderen na eerdere teleurstellingen.En: She also struggles to connect with others after previous disappointments.Nl: Terwijl de avond nadert en het park glittert van de lichtjes voor oud en nieuw, besluiten ze om samen te blijven schaatsen.En: As evening approaches and the park glitters with the lights for New Year's, they decide to continue skating together.Nl: Ze delen hun wensen voor het nieuwe jaar onder de sterrenhemel.En: They share their wishes for the new year under the starry sky.Nl: "Ik wil meer vertrouwen hebben, open staan voor nieuwe dingen," zegt Sanne, voorzichtig zichzelf openstellend.En: "I want to have more confidence, to be open to new things," Sanne says, cautiously opening herself up.Nl: Bram knikt begrijpend.En: Bram nods understandingly.Nl: "Ik wil leren ruimte te maken voor wat belangrijk is, zoals nu."En: "I want to learn to make room for what is important, like now."Nl: Met deze woorden ontstaat een bijzondere verbinding.En: With these words, a special connection forms.Nl: Ze weten dat het een eerste stap is.En: They know it is a first step.Nl: Het nieuwe jaar begint met de belofte van iets nieuws.En: The new year begins with the promise of something new.Nl: De avond eindigt niet met een definitieve belofte van de liefde, maar met enthousiasme voor de toekomst.En: The evening does not end with a definitive promise of love, but with enthusiasm for the future.Nl: Ze beseffen dat ze elkaar hebben gevonden op het juiste moment.En: They realize they have found each other at the right moment.Nl: Ze plannen een volgende ontmoeting, nieuwsgierig naar het avontuur dat voor hen ligt.En: They plan a next meeting, curious about the adventure that lies ahead of them.Nl: En zo, in dat winterse wonderland, begint voor Sanne en Bram een nieuw hoofdstuk.En: And so, in that winter wonderland, a new chapter begins for Sanne and Bram.Nl: De kou van de winter maakt plaats voor de warmte van een opbloeiende relatie.En: The cold of winter gives way to the warmth of a blossoming relationship.Nl: Sanne leert haar hart weer te openen.En: Sanne learns to open her heart again.Nl: Bram vindt zijn evenwicht en inspiratie in persoonlijke vervulling.En: Bram finds his balance and inspiration in personal fulfillment.Nl: Samen maken ze plannen voor een beter jaar, met Vondelpark als hun toevluchtsoord.En: Together they make plans for a better year, with Vondelpark as their refuge. Vocabulary Words:echoes: weerkaatsttranquility: rustthoughtful: bedachtzamelonged: verlangdespontaneous: spontanecross: kruisenpirouette: pirouetteembarrassment: schaamteglitters: glittertcautiously: voorzichtigdefinitive: definitieveblossoming: opbloeiendefulfillment: vervullingrefuge: toevluchtsoordpond: vijvergraphics designer: grafisch ontwerperbalance: evenwichtconnection: verbindingrecognized: herkenningwinter wonderland: winterse wonderlandextends: steektapproaches: nadertstars: sterrenhemelenergy: energieice: ijsloses: kwijtinitially: aanvankelijkconfidence: vertrouwendisappointments: teleurstellingencurious: nieuwsgierig

“The God Of New Beginnings” Scriptures in Today's Message: Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭14-‭21‬ ‭ESV‬‬ Luke‬ ‭4‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭ESV‬‬ Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭ESV‬‬ Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭ESV‬‬ Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭28‬-‭30‬ ‭ESV‬‬ Romans‬ ‭15‬:‭13‬ ‭ESV‬‬ Reflection Questions: God has a plan for you in 2026. Do you have a plan for God? How can you demonstrate trusting in God, not leaning on your own understanding, and acknowledging Him in all your ways concerning the decisions you will be making in 2026?

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Finding Friendship and Warmth in a New Winter Wonderland Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-01-04-08-38-19-he Story Transcript:He: השלג התחיל לרדת בשקט על השכונה החדשה של יעל וליאור.En: The snow began to fall quietly on Yael and Lior's new neighborhood.He: הכול נראה לבן ונקי, כמו חלום קריר.En: Everything looked white and clean, like a cool dream.He: הבית החדש היה קצת זר, ומלא בתיבות שעדיין לא נפתרו.En: The new house felt a bit unfamiliar and was full of boxes that had yet to be unpacked.He: יעל הביטה מבעד לחלון וחשבה על כל החברים שהשאירה מאחור.En: Yael looked out the window and thought of all the friends she left behind.He: "אני רוצה להכיר חברים חדשים," היא חשבה בליבה.En: "I want to make new friends," she thought to herself.He: ליאור, לעומתה, ישב מול הטלוויזיה, שקוע במחשבותיו.En: In contrast, Lior sat in front of the TV, lost in his thoughts.He: המעבר לבית החדש לא היה קל עליו.En: The move to the new house wasn't easy for him.He: הוא מאוד התגעגע לבית הספר הישן ולחבריו.En: He missed his old school and friends a lot.He: יום אחד, בזמן שהשלג כיסה את המדרכות והבתים, יעל הבחינה בקבוצת ילדים משחקים בפארק הסמוך.En: One day, as the snow covered the sidewalks and houses, Yael noticed a group of kids playing in the nearby park.He: הם צחקו וזרקו כדורי שלג זה על זה.En: They laughed and threw snowballs at each other.He: היא קיבלה החלטה אמיצה – לנסות להצטרף אליהם.En: She made a brave decision – to try and join them.He: "אני הולכת לפארק," אמרה ליאור, שנראה שקוע מאוד במחשבותיו ולא התעניין במה שקורה סביבו.En: "I'm going to the park," she said to Lior, who seemed deep in thought and uninterested in what was happening around him.He: יעל לקחה את הכובע והכפפות שלה ויצאה לשחק.En: Yael took her hat and gloves and went out to play.He: הילדים בפארק קיבלו אותה בברכה.En: The kids in the park welcomed her warmly.He: מיד הם החלו לשחק יחד.En: They immediately began playing together.He: יעל הרגישה שהיא מתחילה להרגיש בבית.En: Yael felt she was starting to feel at home.He: במהלך המשחק, יעל חשבה על ליאור.En: During the game, Yael thought of Lior.He: היא רצתה שגם הוא ירגיש יותר טוב עם הבית החדש.En: She wanted him to feel better about the new house too.He: היא הציעה לילדים להזמין את ליאור להשתתף בקרב כדורי השלג.En: She suggested to the kids to invite Lior to join in the snowball fight.He: הילדים הסכימו ברצון.En: The kids happily agreed.He: יעל רצה חזרה הביתה.En: Yael ran back home.He: "ליאור, תרצה להצטרף אלינו?En: "Lior, would you like to join us?He: יש קרב כדורים ממש כיפי!En: There's a really fun snowball fight!"He: " ליאור היסס לרגע, אך אז ראה את החיוך של יעל.En: Lior hesitated for a moment, but then he saw Yael's smile.He: זה היה חיוך שכל כך אהב.En: It was a smile he loved so much.He: הוא קם מהספה, לקח את המעיל שלו ויצא עם יעל.En: He got up from the couch, took his coat, and went out with Yael.He: בפארק, ליאור השתלב במהירות.En: In the park, Lior quickly fit in.He: הקרב היה מלא בצחוק ושובבות.En: The fight was full of laughter and mischief.He: השלג היה קר, אך הלב התחמם.En: The snow was cold, but their hearts were warm.He: באותו רגע, הדברים השתנו.En: At that moment, things changed.He: תחושת הבית החלה להתפשט בלבבות השניים.En: The feeling of home began to spread in their hearts.He: כך, יעל הפכה לבטוחה ועצמאית יותר בלב השכונה החדשה.En: Thus, Yael became more confident and independent in the new neighborhood.He: ליאור התחיל להיפתח לרעיונות חדשים ופשוט ליהנות מהרגע.En: Lior began to open up to new ideas and simply enjoy the moment.He: לפתע, הבית החדש כבר לא הרגיש כל כך זר.En: Suddenly, the new house didn't feel so unfamiliar anymore.He: השלג המשיך לרדת, מכסה את העולם בלובן זך, אך הפעם עם שמחה חדשה.En: The snow continued to fall, covering the world in pure white, but this time with a new joy. Vocabulary Words:neighborhood: שכונהunfamiliar: זרunpacked: לא נפתרוcontrast: לעומתהnoticed: הבחינהbrave: אמיצהdecision: החלטהwarmly: בברכהconfident: בטוחהindependent: עצמאיתuninterested: לא התענייןmischief: שובבותsuggested: הציעהhesitated: היססfit in: השתלבlaughter: צחוקpure: זךhearts: לבבותspread: להתפשטsuddenly: לפתעunfamiliar: זרdream: חלוםthoughts: מחשבותcovered: כיסהsidewalks: מדרכותfight: קרבhesitated: היססsmile: חיוךjoined: הצטרףmoment: רגעBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Rooftop Resolutions: A New Year's Eve in Barcelona Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2026-01-04-08-38-20-ca Story Transcript:Ca: El vent d'hivern bufava suaument sobre el terrat cobert d'una fina capa de gebre a l'Eixample de Barcelona.En: The winter wind blew softly over the rooftop covered in a thin layer of frost in the Eixample of Barcelona.Ca: L'aire fred acariciava el rostre de la Núria mentre mirava les llums de la ciutat que brillaven com petites estrelles.En: The cold air caressed Núria's face as she gazed at the city lights that shone like tiny stars.Ca: Era la nit de Cap d'Any i la Núria estava decidida a començar un nou capítol.En: It was New Year's Eve and Núria was determined to begin a new chapter.Ca: Al seu costat, Jordi s'embolcallava amb la seva bufanda preferida.En: Beside her, Jordi wrapped himself in his favorite scarf.Ca: Els dos amics estaven asseguts en cadires de plàstic, un cafè fumejant a les mans, i parlaven sobre els propòsits de l'any nou.En: The two friends were seated on plastic chairs, steaming coffee in their hands, talking about their New Year's resolutions.Ca: "Vull canviar molt aquest any," va dir la Núria, amb la veu plena d'energia.En: "I want to change a lot this year," said Núria, her voice filled with energy.Ca: "Vull començar a menjar més saludable, fer exercici cada dia i aprendre francès!En: "I want to start eating healthier, exercising every day, and learning French!"Ca: "Jordi va aixecar una cella escèptica però somrient.En: Jordi raised a skeptical but smiling eyebrow.Ca: "Sembla força ambiciós, Núria.En: "That sounds quite ambitious, Núria.Ca: T'has d'assegurar que és sostenible.En: You need to make sure it's sustainable."Ca: "La Núria es va quedar pensativa, mirant el cel estrellat.En: Núria remained thoughtful, looking at the starry sky.Ca: "Però vull fer molts canvis.En: "But I want to make many changes.Ca: Estic decidida!En: I'm determined!"Ca: "Jordi li va posar la mà a l'espatlla càlidament.En: Jordi placed a warm hand on her shoulder.Ca: "Sé que pots aconseguir-ho.En: "I know you can achieve it.Ca: Però és millor començar amb coses petites i després augmentar.En: But it's better to start with small things and then increase.Ca: Així no et desanimaràs.En: That way, you won't get discouraged."Ca: "La Núria va sospirar i va fer una pausa.En: Núria sighed and paused.Ca: Ho havia intentat moltes vegades abans, però mai no havia aconseguit mantenir-ho.En: She had tried many times before but had never succeeded in maintaining it.Ca: "Potser tens raó," va admetre finalment.En: "Perhaps you're right," she finally admitted.Ca: Compartiren un moment de silenci, trencat només per la llunyania del so d'un cotxe i les rialles dels veïns que celebraven la nit.En: They shared a moment of silence, broken only by the distant sound of a car and the laughter of neighbors celebrating the night.Ca: La Núria va mirar-li als ulls Jordi amb un somriure renovat.En: Núria looked Jordi in the eyes with a renewed smile.Ca: "D'acord.En: "Okay.Ca: Començaré amb cinc dies d'exercici a la setmana i un curs de cuina saludable.En: I'll start with five days of exercise a week and a healthy cooking course.Ca: I per al francès, mirar noves sèries amb subtítols.En: And for French, I'll watch new series with subtitles."Ca: "Jordi va assentir satisfet.En: Jordi nodded, satisfied.Ca: "Això sona millor.En: "That sounds better.Ca: T'acompanyaré al gimnàs, si vols.En: I'll accompany you to the gym if you want.Ca: Junts podem fer-ho.En: Together, we can do it."Ca: "Les campanades de mitjanit de la Sagrada Família es van escoltar a l'horitzó.En: The chimes of midnight from Sagrada Família resonated on the horizon.Ca: La Núria va aixecar la tassa de cafè per brindar.En: Núria raised her coffee cup to toast.Ca: "Per un any nou ple d'èxit i bona companyia!En: "To a new year full of success and good company!"Ca: "Després de brindar, els dos amics es van quedar una estona més al terrat.En: After toasting, the two friends stayed a while longer on the rooftop.Ca: La Núria sentia una tranquil·litat estranya, una sensació de realització barrejat amb esperança.En: Núria felt a strange tranquility, a sense of accomplishment mixed with hope.Ca: El camí seria llarg, però no estaria sola, i amb això al cor, va embrancar-se amb entusiasme en el nou any.En: The road would be long, but she wouldn't be alone, and with that in her heart, she embarked enthusiastically into the new year. Vocabulary Words:the rooftop: el terratthe frost: el gebreto caress: acariciarto gaze: mirarthe layer: la capato cover: cobrirthe scarf: la bufandato wrap oneself: embolcallar-seskeptical: escèpticambitious: ambicióssustainable: sostenibleto achieve: aconseguirto discourage: desanimarto sigh: sospirarto admit: admetrethe silence: el silencithe laughter: les riallesto celebrate: celebrarthe series: les sèriesthe subtitles: els subtítolsto nod: assentirto accompany: acompanyarto toast: brindarthe success: l'èxitthe company: la companyiato feel: sentirthe tranquility: la tranquil·litatthe accomplishment: la realitzacióto mix: barrejarthe hope: l'esperança

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Joining the Joy: Mei's Lunar New Year Transformation Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2026-01-04-23-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 梅（Mei）站在窗前，透过薄薄的窗帘，看着外面热闹的街道。En: Mei stood by the window, looking through the thin curtain at the bustling street outside.Zh: 冬天的雪已经覆盖了屋顶，白色的粉末给整个小区披上了一层梦幻的面纱。En: The winter snow had already covered the rooftops, and the white powder draped the entire neighborhood in a layer of dreamlike veil.Zh: 街道两旁的小房子上挂满了红色的灯笼和春联，整个社区都沉浸在迎接农历新年的喜悦气氛中。En: Red lanterns and couplets hung on the small houses lining the street, and the whole community was immersed in the joyful atmosphere of welcoming the Lunar New Year.Zh: 梅刚搬到这个社区。En: Mei had just moved to this community.Zh: 这里的一切对她来说既新鲜又有些陌生。En: Everything here felt both fresh and a bit unfamiliar to her.Zh: 她很想融入这个新的环境，但不知道该从哪里开始。En: She wanted to integrate into this new environment but didn't know where to start.Zh: 她感到有点害怕，但同时也充满了好奇。En: She felt a little scared but was also full of curiosity.Zh: 于是，她决定找邻居贾恩（Jian）帮忙。En: So, she decided to ask her neighbor Jian for help.Zh: 贾恩是个热情的人，总是乐于组织活动。En: Jian was a warm-hearted person who always enjoyed organizing activities.Zh: 梅敲开了贾恩的门。En: Mei knocked on Jian's door.Zh: 贾恩见到梅，非常高兴。En: Jian was very happy to see Mei.Zh: "欢迎来到我们的社区！En: "Welcome to our community!"Zh: "贾恩微笑着说。En: Jian said with a smile.Zh: "我们正在准备农历新年的活动，你愿意加入吗？En: "We are preparing for the Lunar New Year activities, would you like to join?"Zh: "梅重重地点了点头。En: Mei nodded vigorously.Zh: "当然！En: "Of course!Zh: 但我不太了解这些传统，不知道如何帮忙。En: But I'm not very familiar with these traditions and don't know how to help."Zh: "贾恩笑了："没关系，我来教你。En: Jian laughed, "No problem, I'll teach you.Zh: 我们会一起布置街道，还要准备年夜饭的食材。En: We will decorate the street together and also prepare the ingredients for the New Year's Eve dinner."Zh: "于是，他们一起开始忙碌起来。En: So, they started to get busy together.Zh: 梅得到的第一个任务是挂红灯笼。En: Mei's first task was to hang the red lanterns.Zh: 在挂灯笼的时候，她用了点力气，结果不小心弄松了系带，灯笼掉落下来。En: While hanging the lanterns, she used a bit of force, and accidentally loosened the strap, causing a lantern to fall.Zh: 围观的人群中传出一阵惊呼。En: A gasp erupted from the crowd watching.Zh: 这时，邻居莉娜（Lina）从旁边走上前来。En: At this moment, neighbor Lina stepped forward.Zh: 她是梅的邻居，平时不太爱说话，但显然对解决问题很有一手。En: She was Mei's neighbor, usually not very talkative, but apparently quite good at solving problems.Zh: "不要担心，我们一起来修好它！En: "Don't worry, let's fix it together!"Zh: "莉娜鼓励道。En: Lina encouraged.Zh: 很快，周围的人也加入进来，帮忙把灯笼重新挂好。En: Soon, people around also joined in, helping to rehang the lantern.Zh: 大家在一起忙忙碌碌，笑声感染了每一个人。En: Everyone was busy together, and laughter spread through the group.Zh: 梅心里的一块石头终于落了地。En: The weight in Mei's heart finally lifted.Zh: 经过这次的小插曲，梅意识到，犯错并不可怕，重要的是要勇于尝试和表达热情。En: Through this little episode, Mei realized that making mistakes isn't scary; what matters is the courage to try and express enthusiasm.Zh: 这个社区，因着新年的准备活动而更加温馨热闹，而梅也终于真正觉得自己成为了其中的一份子。En: This community, made even more warm and lively with the preparation for the New Year, finally made Mei feel truly a part of it.Zh: 笑声中，梅感受到无比的温暖，也更加自信地迎接接下来的每一个新年。En: Among the laughter, Mei felt an immense warmth and became more confident to welcome every New Year that comes. Vocabulary Words:bustling: 热闹的veil: 面纱couplets: 春联integrate: 融入curiosity: 好奇task: 任务vigorously: 重重地strap: 系带gasp: 惊呼episode: 插曲immense: 无比venue: 场地lantern: 灯笼laughter: 笑声community: 社区organizing: 组织decorate: 布置ingredients: 食材confidence: 自信atmosphere: 气氛neighbor: 邻居enthusiasm: 热情preparation: 准备welcoming: 迎接curtain: 窗帘neighboring: 旁边的unexpected: 不小心anxious: 害怕unfamiliar: 陌生encouraged: 鼓励

Fluent Fiction - Danish: Winter Revelations: A Farewell in Tivoli's Glowing Embrace Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/da/episode/2026-01-03-08-38-20-da Story Transcript:Da: Tivoli Haverne var en magisk verden i vinterkulden.En: Tivoli Haverne was a magical world in the winter cold.Da: Det var som et eventyr.En: It was like a fairytale.Da: Lys blinkede overalt.En: Lights twinkled everywhere.Da: Duftene af gløgg og friskbagte æbleskiver fyldte luften.En: The scents of gløgg and freshly baked æbleskiver filled the air.Da: Mennesker lo, klar til at fejre det nye år.En: People laughed, ready to celebrate the new year.Da: Freja gik gennem haven med målrettede skridt.En: Freja walked through the garden with determined steps.Da: Hun ville nyde vinterfestivalen.En: She wanted to enjoy the winter festival.Da: Glemme fortiden.En: Forget the past.Da: Glemme Villads.En: Forget Villads.Da: Men skæbnen havde andre planer.En: But fate had other plans.Da: Villads stod ved en bod med karamelliserede æbler.En: Villads stood by a stall with caramelized apples.Da: Hans smil var stort, men Freja kunne se, at hans øjne bar noget andet.En: His smile was big, but Freja could see that his eyes carried something else.Da: Noget tungere.En: Something heavier.Da: Noget som hun havde kendt så godt.En: Something she had known so well.Da: Hendes hjerte sprang et slag over.En: Her heart skipped a beat.Da: "Freja," sagde han, da han så hende.En: "Freja," he said when he saw her.Da: Hans stemme var overrasket, blød.En: His voice was surprised, soft.Da: "Villads," svarede hun, usikker på hvad hun skulle sige.En: "Villads," she replied, unsure of what to say.Da: De stod i et kort øjeblik, omgivet af lyde og lys.En: They stood for a brief moment, surrounded by sounds and lights.Da: Men det var som om de var alene i denne travle verden.En: But it was as if they were alone in this busy world.Da: Freja ønskede fred.En: Freja wanted peace.Da: Hun ønskede afslutning.En: She wanted closure.Da: Ikke denne tornado af følelser.En: Not this tornado of emotions.Da: "Jeg ville bare... tale," sagde Villads til sidst.En: "I just wanted to... talk," Villads finally said.Da: "Vi har nogle ting, vi aldrig fik sagt."En: "We have some things we never got to say."Da: Freja tøvede.En: Freja hesitated.Da: Skulle hun tale med ham?En: Should she talk to him?Da: Eller tage det lette valg og gå videre uden ord?En: Or take the easy choice and move on without words?Da: Men der, midt i vinterens hjerte, besluttede hun sig.En: But there, in the heart of winter, she decided.Da: De gik til et roligere hjørne af Tivoli.En: They went to a quieter corner of Tivoli.Da: "Jeg har savnet dig," indrømmede Villads, da de var væk fra folkemængden.En: "I've missed you," Villads admitted when they were away from the crowd.Da: Ordet hang i kulden mellem dem.En: The word hung in the cold between them.Da: Freja sukkede dybt.En: Freja sighed deeply.Da: Det, han sagde, brød noget i hende.En: What he said broke something in her.Da: Noget hun troede, hun havde lagt bag sig.En: Something she thought she had left behind.Da: "Jeg har også tænkt meget," sagde Freja.En: "I've been thinking a lot too," Freja said.Da: "Men det er tid til at komme videre.En: "But it's time to move on.Da: For os begge."En: For both of us."Da: Villads nikkede, selvom hans øjne var triste.En: Villads nodded, even though his eyes were sad.Da: "Jeg forstår," svarede han stille.En: "I understand," he replied quietly.Da: Snart blev de stilhed.En: Soon, they fell into silence.Da: Sandheden var sagt.En: The truth was spoken.Da: Det, der var ubeskriveligt, blev nu beskrevet.En: What was indescribable was now described.Da: Freja følte lettelse.En: Freja felt relief.Da: Endelig kunne hun trække vejret frit.En: Finally, she could breathe freely.Da: De smilte svagt til hinanden.En: They smiled faintly at each other.Da: De gik tilbage mod festivalens lys, nu uden de ufortalte ord imellem dem.En: They walked back toward the festival's lights, now without the unspoken words between them.Da: Freja vidste, hun var stærkere nu.En: Freja knew she was stronger now.Da: Klar til fremtiden.En: Ready for the future.Da: Klar til nye eventyr.En: Ready for new adventures.Da: De skiltes med gensidig respekt.En: They parted with mutual respect.Da: Det var tid til at byde det nye år velkommen med et lettet sind.En: It was time to welcome the new year with a relieved mind.Da: Og Tivoli, med sin strålende pragt, var vidne til en gammel kærligheds sidste kapitel, mens nye muligheder ventede i horisonten.En: And Tivoli, with its radiant splendor, bore witness to an old love's last chapter while new possibilities awaited on the horizon. Vocabulary Words:magical: magiskfairytale: eventyrtwinkled: blinkedescents: duftenedetermined: målrettedefate: skæbnencaramelized: karamelliseredebetrayed: barskipped: sprangclosure: afslutningtornado: tornadohesitated: tøvedequieter: roligereadmitted: indrømmedesighed: sukkederelief: lettelseindescribable: ubeskriveligtsplendor: pragtmutual: gensidigradiant: strålendesplendor: pragtpossibilities: mulighederwitness: vidnehorizon: horisontendetermined: målrettedeadventures: eventyrafraid: usikkerclosure: afslutningbreathe: trække vejretrelieved: lettet

In this  Monthly Message from the Angels, Spirit brings forward a deeply important theme for this season: Time. Not time running out, not urgency rooted in fear — but the sacred, energetic value of how you choose to spend your time.This channeled message is a reminder that time is currency, and how you invest it directly shapes your happiness, expansion, and the next chapter of your life. The angels speak clearly about intentional living, energetic boundaries, and the importance of choosing what — and who — truly deserves access to your presence.✨ In this episode, you'll receive insight on: Why time expands when you choose joy, alignment, and happiness How sadness, stress, and obligation quietly drain your energy Becoming intentional about who and what you give your time to Letting go of people, habits, and commitments that no longer serve you Why this year is laying the foundation for a new 12-year cycle Honoring your self-worth by valuing your time and energy This is a message about presence, not pressure. About choosing happiness without guilt. About understanding that how you move now matters deeply — not from fear of the future, but from alignment with it.If you've been feeling the call to slow down, refocus, release, and live more intentionally, this message arrived right on time.Ready for your 2026 Insight Roadmap2026 Yearly Preview Some of My Favorite BooksMake sure you leave me a comment I would love to hear from you! Helpful Links:Free Money Mindset CourseBook A Divine Alignment SessionAngels with Fran TVInstagramMy WebsiteSign Up for My Newsletter Ready to transform your mindset and unlock abundance in your life? Hit subscribe now! Share this episode with friends and family who are ready to step into their power and create a life of abundance.Raising Consciousness and Changing Lives one Podcast at a time

Hello to you listening all over the world!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday in the New Year and your host, Diane Wyzga.Old Man Winter sighed, letting go of the last snowflake as midnight chimed, releasing tiny, glittering sprites of memories from the past year to dance away, making room for the mischievous, bright-eyed Spirit of New Beginnings, who whispered, "Twelve new chapters, 365 new chances!" as the world filled with fresh hope and the promise of endless possibilities, readying us to honor the coming days with compassion, loving kindness, and adventure.Story Prompt: Imagine this: the old ways of being have faded and a heartwarming spirit has arrived, full of potential, ready to inspire visions, curiosity, imagination, and even a bit of magic. Let's embrace the Promise of the New Year, letting go of what was, welcoming second chances, and stepping forward with hope and gentle optimism for the future we'll create. Write that story and share it out loud!  You're always welcome: "Come for the stories - Stay for the magic!" Speaking of magic, I hope you'll subscribe, share a 5-star rating and nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, bring your friends and rellies, and join us! You will have wonderful company as we continue to walk our lives together. Be sure to stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website, check out the Communication Services, arrange a no-obligation Discovery Call, and stay current with me as "Wyzga on Words" on Substack.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicALL content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.  If you found this podcast episode helpful, please consider sharing and attributing it to Diane Wyzga of Stories From Women Who Walk podcast with a link back to the original source.

Fluent Fiction - Danish: A Brush with Hope: Søren's Artistic Journey to New Beginnings Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/da/episode/2026-01-02-23-34-02-da Story Transcript:Da: Det var vinter udenfor, kulden krøb ind gennem de små vinduer i afdelingen.En: It was winter outside, the cold crept in through the small windows in the ward.Da: Inde i den psykiatriske afdeling var der en anden slags varme.En: Inside the psychiatric ward, there was a different kind of warmth.Da: På væggene hang farverige billeder, mange malet af patienterne selv.En: On the walls hung colorful pictures, many painted by the patients themselves.Da: Blandt dem var Søren, en patient med en drøm større end de kolde mure.En: Among them was Søren, a patient with a dream bigger than the cold walls.Da: Han havde været her i nogle uger, men hans sind havde længe søgt efter et frirum.En: He had been here for a few weeks, but his mind had long sought an escape.Da: Søren havde fundet ro med en pensel i hånden.En: Søren had found peace with a brush in hand.Da: Malerierne blev hans stemme, da ordene ikke slog til.En: The paintings became his voice when words failed.Da: Astrid, en forstående sygeplejerske, havde opmuntret ham.En: Astrid, an understanding nurse, had encouraged him.Da: Hun så noget særligt i hans kunst, en dybde, som få opdagede.En: She saw something special in his art, a depth few discovered.Da: "Du har et talent, Søren," sagde Astrid blidt en morgen.En: "You have talent, Søren," Astrid said softly one morning.Da: "Hvorfor viser du det ikke til flere?"En: "Why don't you show it to more people?"Da: "Jeg...En: "I...Da: Jeg vil gerne se den lokale kunstskole," svarede Søren, mens hans blik blev fjernt.En: I'd like to see the local art school," replied Søren, his gaze becoming distant.Da: "Men tror du, de vil lade mig gå?"En: "But do you think they'll let me go?"Da: Astrid vidste, at det ikke var let.En: Astrid knew it wasn't easy.Da: Hospitalets administration var forsigtig.En: The hospital administration was cautious.Da: Men med nytåret nærmede hun sig en idé.En: But with New Year's approaching, she had an idea.Da: Hun foreslog en udstilling under nytårsfesten.En: She suggested an exhibition during the New Year's party.Da: Søren kunne fremvise sine værker.En: Søren could showcase his works.Da: Måske ville det overbevise dem, tænkte hun.En: Maybe it would convince them, she thought.Da: Ugen op til nytår var travl.En: The week leading up to New Year's was busy.Da: Søren malede flittigt.En: Søren painted diligently.Da: Astrid hjalp ham med at vælge de bedste malerier.En: Astrid helped him choose the best paintings.Da: Udstillingen skulle være perfekt.En: The exhibition had to be perfect.Da: Der blev hængt guirlander op og tændt stearinlys, der gav varme til rummet.En: Garlands were hung, and candles were lit, providing warmth to the room.Da: Endelig kom aftenen for nytårsfesten.En: Finally, the evening of the New Year's party arrived.Da: Personalet og nogle få gæster var til stede.En: The staff and a few guests were present.Da: Blandt dem var en repræsentant fra kunstskolen, hvis blik straks søgte mod malerierne.En: Among them was a representative from the art school, whose gaze immediately sought the paintings.Da: Da Søren præsenterede sine værker, blev rummet stille.En: When Søren presented his works, the room fell silent.Da: De farverige billeder fangede alles opmærksomhed.En: The colorful pictures captured everyone's attention.Da: Malerierne talte, hvor Søren ikke kunne.En: The paintings spoke where Søren could not.Da: Applaus brød ud, og endda skole repræsentanten nikkede anerkendende.En: Applause erupted, and even the school representative nodded appreciatively.Da: Efter udstillingen mødte Astrid og Søren administrationen.En: After the exhibition, Astrid and Søren met with the administration.Da: Med stor respekt talte Astrid om Sørens fremskridt og passion for kunsten.En: With great respect, Astrid spoke about Søren's progress and passion for art.Da: Skolens repræsentant roste ham også og nævnte muligheder på skolen.En: The school's representative also praised him and mentioned opportunities at the school.Da: Med deres støtte blev beslutningen taget.En: With their support, the decision was made.Da: Søren skulle få lov at besøge kunstskolen, med Astrid som ledsager.En: Søren would be allowed to visit the art school, with Astrid as his companion.Da: En ny start var begyndt.En: A new beginning had started.Da: Søren kiggede ud af vinduet, hvor sneen dalede stille.En: Søren looked out the window, where the snow fell quietly.Da: Indenfor varmede en ny drøm hans hjerte.En: Inside, a new dream warmed his heart.Da: Han vidste, at dette kun var begyndelsen.En: He knew this was just the beginning.Da: Astrid smilede ved siden af ham.En: Astrid smiled beside him.Da: Hendes glæde over at se Søren tage et skridt mod sine drømme var alt, hvad hun behøvede.En: Her joy in seeing Søren take a step toward his dreams was all she needed.Da: Vinteren udenfor var kold, men indenfor, i hjertet af afdelingen, var der en varme fyldt med håb og nye begyndelser.En: The winter outside was cold, but inside, in the heart of the ward, there was a warmth filled with hope and new beginnings. Vocabulary Words:crept: krøbward: afdelingenpsychiatric: psykiatriskewarmth: varmesought: søgtescape: frirumbrush: penselencouraged: opmuntrettalent: talentgaze: blikadministration: administrationcautious: forsigtigexhibition: udstillingdiligently: flittigtgarlands: guirlandercandles: stearinlysrepresentative: repræsentantapplause: applausappreciatively: anerkendendepassion: passionopportunities: mulighedercompanion: ledsagerbeginning: begyndelsequietly: stillejoy: glædeheart: hjertedream: drømcolorful: farverigepatient: patientdiscovered: opdagede

Audio taken from the live recording of "Do These 5 Things in 2026 and Your Life Will Change Forever!' - https://youtu.be/lQj3Nr6--5oAs we enter into a new year, many people are looking to make resolutions that can improve their lives. These resolutions, and if kept, will certainly improve the quality of your life, however they all share one common flaw: That flaw is, they all are dependent upon the strength and discipline of our human nature, which the Scripture reveals is weak. (Matthew 26:41)This inherent human weakness is why the majority of us fail to consistently keep our lofty resolutions, though we initially mean well.These 5 resolutions I am going to share with you today ensure you are not dependent upon your strength alone, because all 5 are undergirded by the promise of God's strength and supernatural intervention.1 - Read your Bible daily!2 - Pray Daily!3 - Faithfully honor God's house!4 - Become a generous steward.5 - Make Jesus Christ Your Lord and Savior!Key Scriptures used in today's teaching: Acts 2:42-47Other Scriptures referenced: Matthew 26:41; Philippians 4:13; Romans 12:2; Psalm 1:2-3; Proverbs 3:5-6; Luke 5:16; Hebrews 10:25; Genesis 1:27; John 3:16; Luke 6:38; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8; Psalm 112:9; John 10:10; Romans 3:23; Acts 16:3Unless otherwise noted, most Scripture will be read from the New Living Translation (NLT) Bible.If you prayed with Tiff, click here https://lostlamb.org/ and let him know!  Be sure to check out the playlist “New Beginnings” - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsX8E19Azl58_FjxELPxjnsL8CAtmama4Thank you for listening, and subscribe for new content each week. 
Connect with Tiff Shuttlesworth:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LostLambAssociation/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiffshuttlesworth/ X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/tiffshuttleswor Learn more about my ministry: https://lostlamb.org/ Learn more about my ministry in Canada: https://www.lostlamb.ca

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: New Beginnings: An Unlikely Library Encounter in Amsterdam Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2026-01-01-23-34-02-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De witbesneeuwde stad Amsterdam was stil op de ochtend van Nieuwjaarsdag.En: The white snow-covered city of Amsterdam was quiet on the morning of New Year's Day.Nl: Binnen in de Centrale Bibliotheek was het echter levendig.En: Inside the Centrale Bibliotheek, however, it was lively.Nl: Het warme licht vulde de ruimte terwijl de lezers zich verspreidden over de verschillende verdiepingen.En: The warm light filled the space as the readers spread out over the different floors.Nl: Bij de zeldzame boekenhoek verscheen Maarten, een stille grafisch ontwerper die op zoek was naar nieuwe inspiratie.En: In the rare books section appeared Maarten, a quiet graphic designer looking for new inspiration.Nl: Terwijl hij door de rijen liep, zag hij Sanne.En: As he walked through the rows, he saw Sanne.Nl: Zij stond met haar neus diep begraven in een boek over de geschiedenis van Nederland.En: She was deeply buried in a book about the history of Nederland.Nl: Sanne studeerde literatuur en hoopte een bijzondere invalshoek voor haar scriptie te vinden.En: Sanne was studying literature and hoped to find a unique angle for her thesis.Nl: Beiden waren verzonken in hun wereld, maar hun ogen kruisten toen ze toevallig naar hetzelfde zeldzame boek reikten.En: Both were absorbed in their worlds, but their eyes met when they coincidentally reached for the same rare book.Nl: Maarten glimlachte verlegen.En: Maarten smiled shyly.Nl: "Houd je ook van oude boeken?"En: "Do you also love old books?"Nl: vroeg hij, zijn stem zachtjes.En: he asked, his voice soft.Nl: Sanne knikte enthousiast.En: Sanne nodded enthusiastically.Nl: "Ja, ik ben altijd op zoek naar iets bijzonders."En: "Yes, I'm always looking for something special."Nl: Er was een aarzeling in hun stemmen, een onzekerheid.En: There was hesitation in their voices, an uncertainty.Nl: Beide hadden negatieve ervaringen gehad met vreemden, en die maakten hen terughoudend.En: Both had had negative experiences with strangers, which made them cautious.Nl: "Ik ben Maarten," zei hij uiteindelijk.En: "I'm Maarten," he finally said.Nl: "Ik zoek wat inspiratie voor mijn werk."En: "I'm looking for some inspiration for my work."Nl: Sanne stelde zich ook voor: "Ik ben Sanne.En: Sanne introduced herself too: "I'm Sanne.Nl: Voor mijn scriptie heb ik iets speciaals nodig over de Nederlandse geschiedenis."En: For my thesis, I need something special about Dutch history."Nl: Ze begonnen te praten over het boek in hun handen en ontdekten dat ze jaren geleden hetzelfde obscure college hadden bijgewoond.En: They started talking about the book in their hands and discovered that they had attended the same obscure college class years ago.Nl: De herinnering daaraan brak het ijs.En: The memory of that broke the ice.Nl: Er volgde een levendige discussie.En: A lively discussion followed.Nl: Maarten en Sanne deelden ideeën, lachten en voelden zich ineens minder alleen.En: Maarten and Sanne shared ideas, laughed, and suddenly felt less alone.Nl: De tijd vloog voorbij.En: Time flew by.Nl: Toen de zonnestralen door de ramen begonnen te vervagen, beseften ze dat ze de hele middag hadden gepraat.En: When the sun's rays began to fade through the windows, they realized they had been talking all afternoon.Nl: Ze stapten de bibliotheek uit, de koude lucht begroette hen.En: They stepped out of the library, greeted by the cold air.Nl: "Misschien kunnen we samen koffie drinken en verder praten?"En: "Perhaps we can have coffee together and continue talking?"Nl: stelde Maarten voor.En: Maarten suggested.Nl: Sanne glimlachte.En: Sanne smiled.Nl: "Dat lijkt me fijn.En: "That sounds nice.Nl: Het is lang geleden dat ik zo open over mijn werk kon zijn."En: It's been a long time since I could be so open about my work."Nl: Terwijl ze de straat op liepen, verdween stukje bij beetje de schroom die ze aan het begin van de dag hadden gevoeld.En: As they walked down the street, the reserve they felt at the beginning of the day slowly disappeared.Nl: Ze merkten op dat ze meer zelfvertrouwen hadden nu ze wisten dat er iemand was die hun passie deelde.En: They noticed they felt more confident now that they knew there was someone who shared their passion.Nl: Op deze ijskoude Nieuwjaarsdag begon er iets speciaals tussen Maarten en Sanne – een nieuw jaar en een nieuwe vriendschap beloofden veel goeds.En: On this icy New Year's Day, something special began between Maarten and Sanne—a new year and a new friendship promised many good things. Vocabulary Words:snow-covered: witbesneeuwdeinspiration: inspiratiegraphic designer: grafisch ontwerperrare: zeldzamecoincidentally: toevalligshyly: verlegenenthusiastically: enthousiasthesitation: aarzelinguncertainty: onzekerheidstrangers: vreemdenobscure: obscurebroke the ice: brak het ijslively discussion: levendige discussieabsorbed: verzonkenconfidence: zelfvertrouwencautious: terughoudendgreeted: begroettereserve: schroompassion: passiepromise: beloofdenunique: bijzondereliterature: literatuurthesis: scriptiesun's rays: zonnestralenfilled: vuldecold air: koude luchtattended: bijgewoondwalked: liepdisappeared: verdweenpromised: beloofden

   This is a time of New Beginnings, isn’t it? The first weekend of this new year is ahead of us and following that schools will resume; the first economic business quarter will begin; and new champions are soon to be named as sports playoffs are underway. The first wave of babies are being born in this new year and undoubtedly some excited couples will be married this weekend. So, I wonder what excitement these first few days of 2026 will bring into your life and mine? (Click here to see full text, images and links)    Pastor Doug Anderson    “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, with our eyes fixed on Jesus…” (Heb. 12:1,2)Have a comment or question about today's chapter? I'm ready to hear from you, contact me here. Interested in helping "Walking with Jesus" financially? Click here

As we step into the new year with new goals and intentions, consider the day by day choices, as well as practicing DBT skills.

Episode 2.70Every New Year feels like standing at the edge of something new. Fresh starts. New resolutions. Another chance.But Scripture reminds us that real change rarely comes through dramatic leaps—it comes through faithful steps.In this episode, Michael and Zach reflect on the biblical meaning of the Jordan River as a place of transition, renewal, and obedience. From Israel entering the Promised Land, to Elijah and Elisha, to Naaman's healing, to Jesus' own baptism, the Jordan marks moments where God brings His people through change, not around it.Using the New Year as a natural pause for reflection, the conversation explores:-Why we're drawn to fresh starts-Why New Year's resolutions often fail-How sanctification works through ordinary, repeated obedience-The difference between chasing goals and walking faithfully in a direction-Why God's grace transforms us slowly—but surelyThis is a reminder that the Christian life isn't about instant arrival, but steady movement—crossing the water one step at a time, trusting the God who goes with us.If you're entering a new year feeling hopeful, hesitant, or worn out, this episode is an invitation to begin again—not with pressure, but with presence.Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/QZKkJDKypE8Merch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8Find more Take 2 Theology content at http://www.take2theology.com

What does it mean to embrace a new beginning? For Chicago alto saxophonist Lenard Simpson, it means answering the call of faith. Inspired by the prophet Isaiah's famous directive to "forget the former things; do not dwell on the past," Simpson's 2024 release, New Beginnings, is a stirring, soulful journey. With pianist Julius Tucker, bassist Runere Brooks, and drummer Samuel Jewell, this quartet masterfully blends the spiritual depth of the Black Church experience with the soaring improvisation of modern jazz. Join us as we explore Lenard Simpson's musical testament.

In this warm and uplifting New Year episode, I guide you through beginning the year the Ayurvedic way — by honouring the season you're actually living in. Whether you're in winter in the Northern Hemisphere or summer with me here in Australia, this episode will help you start gently, wisely, and in harmony with your body.You'll hear personal stories, humour, and powerful coaching reflections as we explore:✨ why the season matters more than the calendar ✨ how to set intentions based on how you want to feel ✨ two simple, grounding New Year practices ✨ and how to lift pressure without losing clarityWant personalised Ayurvedic support to begin your year aligned and glowing? Book your free 15-minute connection call:

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Ice Capades: A Comedic Spin on New Year's Surprises Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2026-01-01-23-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 在一个寒冷的冬季，新年的灯笼在冰场周围点亮。En: In a cold winter season, the New Year's denglong were lit around the ice rink.Zh: 欢快的音乐在空中飘荡，冰面上的光芒映照在大家的笑脸上。En: Cheerful music floated through the air, and the light on the ice reflected on everyone's smiling faces.Zh: Xiang和Lian站在角落里，心里充满了期待和一丝紧张。En: Xiang and Lian stood in the corner, their hearts filled with anticipation and a touch of nervousness.Zh: “这个才艺表演我们能行吗？”Lian调皮地问道，眼神中带着鼓励与期待。En: "Do you think we can manage this talent show?" Lian playfully asked, his eyes full of encouragement and expectation.Zh: 事情是这样的：几天前，Xiang偶然看见了冰场上贴着的一张新年冰舞才艺表演的海报。En: Here's what happened: a few days ago, Xiang accidentally saw a poster for the New Year's ice dance talent show on the ice rink.Zh: 他心中隐隐有个愿望，他想在好友面前展示自己与众不同的一面，也希望能从中获得自信。En: He had a vague desire in his heart to show a different side of himself in front of his friends and hoped to gain some confidence from it.Zh: 然而，他并没有意识到这个表演是需要报名参加的。En: However, he didn't realize that signing up was required for this performance.Zh: 于是，当天晚上，他无意间对着Lian说：“要不我们去看看？”话音刚落，工作人员误将他们的对话当成了报名。En: So, that evening, he casually told Lian, "Why don't we go take a look?" As soon as he finished speaking, the staff mistakenly took their conversation as registration.Zh: “哇，看啊，我们被报名了！”Lian大笑起来，似乎对这突如其来的惊喜感到无比兴奋。En: "Wow, look, we've been signed up!" Lian laughed, seemingly extremely excited about the unexpected surprise.Zh: 现在，他们站在门口，Xiang一方面后悔自己当初的粗心，另一方面又觉得也许这是一个展示的机会。En: Now, standing at the entrance, Xiang felt regretful about his carelessness on one hand but also thought it might be an opportunity to showcase himself.Zh: 他想了想，深吸一口气，说：“我们就试试吧，反正也没有什么损失。”En: After a moment's thought, he took a deep breath and said, "Let's give it a try; we have nothing to lose anyway."Zh: 比赛一开始，选手们一个接一个上场，场面既紧张又欢乐。En: When the competition started, the participants took turns stepping onto the rink, the atmosphere both tense and joyful.Zh: 终于轮到Xiang和Lian，En: Finally, it was Xiang and Lian's turn.Zh: 两人互相加油后，忐忑地滑上了冰场。En: After cheering each other on, they anxiously glided onto the ice.Zh: 在耀眼的灯光下，他们相拥滑行，En: Under the dazzling lights, they skated together.Zh: 步调不如预期的那般整齐，却意外地成为一段滑稽的表演。En: Their movements weren't as synchronized as they had hoped, yet unexpectedly, it turned into a comedic performance.Zh: 他们试着跳跃，不成想却双双摔倒，又在冰上滑行一段后，奇迹般地转了个圈圈，不约而同地摆出搞怪的姿势。En: They tried to jump, only to both fall, and after sliding a bit on the ice, they miraculously spun in a circle and spontaneously struck funny poses.Zh: 观众们被逗得哈哈大笑，纷纷为他们喝彩。En: The audience burst into laughter and cheered for them.Zh: 比赛结束时，评委宣布：“最具喜剧效果奖——Xiang和Lian！”En: At the end of the competition, the judges announced, "The Most Comedic Effect Award—Xiang and Lian!"Zh: 人群中爆发出热烈的掌声。En: The crowd erupted into enthusiastic applause.Zh: Xiang笑了，他心中的那份不安随着掌声一同消失。En: Xiang smiled, and his nervousness faded away with the applause.Zh: 他终于明白，尝试新事物并不一定要恐惧失败，有时候，接受挑战本身就是一种胜利。En: He finally understood that trying new things doesn't necessarily mean fearing failure; sometimes, embracing the challenge itself is a victory.Zh: “我们做到了。”Lian拍着Xiang的肩，笑着说道。En: "We did it," Lian said, patting Xiang on the shoulder and smiling.Zh: 在新年的这个特别时刻，Xiang学会了拥抱未知，也收获了与Lian的珍贵回忆。En: During this special moment of the New Year, Xiang learned to embrace the unknown and gained precious memories with Lian.Zh: 冰场上的新年灯笼，仿佛化作跳动的星星，笑意盈盈地陪伴着这对老友，共同开启新年的美好篇章。En: The New Year's denglong on the ice rink seemed to transform into twinkling stars, joyfully accompanying the old friends as they embarked on a beautiful new chapter of the year. Vocabulary Words:anticipation: 期待nervousness: 紧张talent: 才艺vague: 隐隐realize: 意识到registration: 报名regretful: 后悔carelessness: 粗心opportunity: 机会showcase: 展示synchronized: 整齐comedic: 滑稽pose: 姿势cheer: 喝彩enthusiastic: 热烈applause: 掌声embrace: 拥抱unknown: 未知precious: 珍贵chapter: 篇章lit: 点亮casually: 无意间spontaneously: 不约而同地judges: 评委smiling faces: 笑脸touch: 一丝accidentally: 偶然unexpected: 突如其来cheered: 加油transform: 化作

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible, and what a milestone it is as we arrive together at December 31st, 2025! In this special year-end episode, Hunter reflects on the incredible journey we've shared—completing another orbit around the sun and, more importantly, another walk through the entire Bible. Today's reading brings us to the powerful and hope-filled closing chapters of Revelation, where we encounter the promise of a new heaven, a new earth, and a new beginning for all God's people. As Hunter guides us through these final passages, he invites us to consider the grand story of Scripture—not only its awe-inspiring conclusion but also the promise that with God, every ending gives way to a new beginning. There's encouragement and reassurance for all of us entering a new year: God is with us, His love never fails, and the best is yet to come. This episode also contains heartfelt prayers of gratitude, blessing, and hope for the year ahead, as well as an invitation to reflect on your own journey through the Scriptures. Whether you're a first-time listener or have been with us for years, you'll find inspiration and comfort as we close out 2025 together—reminded that in every season and chapter of life, we are truly loved. TODAY'S DEVOTION: It's only just begun. Even as we conclude this story, we see that a new story is just beginning. A new creation is coming—a new heaven and a new earth, a new city, a new Jerusalem with new citizens composed of all the nations. These nations will walk in the light of God. They are enveloped in his light. They are his children of light. Today, as we consider these great mysteries, let's be sure of this: the story that we're living right now has an endpoint. There is a conclusion that God is bringing it to, but it doesn't just end with a conclusion. No, now we see that there is still more to come. In fact, the best is yet to come. And that can be a great reminder and a great comfort to our souls as we see certain chapters of our own lives come to their conclusion. We can rest assured that God is not done. There's still more to come. Because with him we have life. We have life abundant. And he promises to be with us through all of the seasons and the chapters of our lives—even as he has been this year and all that it brought, all its challenges, its misfortunes, its victories and its joys—and he will continue to be with us as we walk into this next chapter. All that will unfold we do not know. But we do know this: that God is with us, that he is good, and that we are loved. The prayer of my own soul today is that I will live in the light. That I will respond to the One who is the light of the world, the One who has come to give Himself. That I might know him, that I might be free, that I might experience his peace and his joy. That's the prayer that I have for my own soul. That's the prayer that I have for my family—for my wife, my daughters, and my son. And that's the prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Step into a fresh season of life with this Deep Sleep Meditation. Whether you are transitioning into a New Year, starting a new week or month, or simply closing a chapter in your personal story, The Winter Refresh is designed to reset your nervous system and clear your mind for a new beginning. Settle into the coziest winter haven and find quiet, supportive reassurance. It's time to dream away.

We're ending 2025 on a high as we wrap up this year with a Best of Date Night! We pulled together some of our favorite Date Night - the ones we still reference and laugh about. Come ride around LA with us as we recount our brain farts, revisit the White Couch Debacle, and never stop bringing the conversation back around to sandwiches. Plus, some true nuggets of real perspective, love, and navigating life's hard things together. 2025 was the year of getting Penny, another year of watching Sonny come into his own and be the best guy around, another year on our surrogacy journey, and another year of bringing you along with us for all of it. We just love you so much and we are excited for the many Date Nights that lie ahead! This episode is brought to you by eBay, Vital Vitamins, and Google ShoppingeBay has millions of pre-loved finds, from hundreds of brands, backed by eBay Authenticity Guarantee. eBay. Things. People. Love.Vital Vitamins is offering my listeners 20% off all orders with code WITHWHIT at myvitalvitamins.comYou have to check out Google's Try On feature. Check it out at g.co/shop/tryon. Trust me, your holiday season just got a whole lot merrier. This episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct, or indirect financial interest in products, or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear MediaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.