Depression is much more common that I expected. I remember being at a Men’s Breakfast at my church, and five out of the six men at my table admitted to going through depression. But it is rarely talked about. I tried many things to get rid of the depression – sleeping, fasting and prayer, talking to friends and listening to motivational talks...

Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “But I would never do that?” I hear myself say that all the time. Sometimes it comes in the form of “I could never wear that” or “I wouldn’t know where to begin” or “I don’t think I could”. Those voices of self-doubt are very common. While it’s comforting to know I’m not the only one,...

A recent issue of O, The Oprah Magazine featured a quiz that used a pie chart to plot how you spend your day.  The quiz was in two parts. Part one plotted what you actually do now and part two was a list of things you love doing. The last part of the task involved seeing where (or if) the things you love fit into your usual day.  As I looked at...

Looking for a mini-break to add a little relaxation to your summer? Leave the stresses of bathing suit shopping behind and take some time to pamper yourself. Try a few of these easy ideas that work for any body and remember how much fun summer can be. 1. Go play outside. There are so many things to do outside - walk, hike, play Frisbee, play...

I am in the process of buying my very first home. I’ve rented for 12 years and finally – amazingly - it’s time. The offer has been made and accepted and if the home inspection passes they’re going to give me the keys. The last two places I’ve lived in I’ve had to move out on someone else’s schedule – once because the house was sold...

I lost my dad to suicide at the age of five. Shortly after that a family member started sexually abusing me. Several years later I lost my step dad to a horrible fire that destroyed our home. We were left with nothing except for haunting memories.  Later, I turned to drinking to ease the pain that tormented me day in and day out and also developed...

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Become a Better Listener

Listening is complex. In its simplest form its something my dog can do. Effectual listening, however, requires more than your physical presence. It requires you to engage your heart and mind to understand not only my words but the part of myself I am communicating to you. Being heard, with this type of care, is essential.  Are you a good communicator?...