Something’s Gotta Give

Posted on by beautybeyondbones

I’m having one of those moments where I literally feel like I’m floating.

And no, there are no illegal substances in my body. Although, I did just eat some cotton candy grapes, and I’m convinced that there’s a magic ingredient in there, because those things are unreal.

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But I legitimately feel lighter than air.

Ever since my mom’s stroke back in December, family has obviously been top priority. We’ve come together as a unit and dug in for the long haul. I’ve been home from NYC for the last four months, and just this past week, my brother and his wife moved two houses down from my parents in the neighborhood we grew up in.

Talk about an amazing couple.

And so this weekend, my mom and I threw her a party to welcome her to the neighborhood.

That party was today.

And it was amazing.

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But not for the reasons you may think.

There were about, oh…20 young women there. Just starting families. I didn’t know any of them, as I haven’t lived in my neighborhood in close to ten years and it’s turned over since then.

But the incredible thing about this party today was how God showed up.

This was not a church-sponsored party. It’s not like my mom invited her friends from her bible study. This was the neighborhood. A mix of people from all over, who were brought together this afternoon solely by their houses’ proximity.

And can I tell you, just about every conversation I had today came back to God.

Yes, I talked about my faith in public.

And it’s not like I was on some sort of evangelization mission. Goodness knows that I am pretty bashful when it comes to talking about religion. But it just kind of came up.

And I learned a valuable lesson.

People want to talk about their faith. 

The cultural climate is such that faith and what we believe has become an off-limits topic. The intense scrutiny for political correctness and hyper sensitivity for being offended has created a society where we just don’t talk about what really matters … like God. Morality. Right and wrong. What we believe in.

And so we shut it down. Keep our faith behind closed doors or confined within the walls of a church, and our society is redlining as a result.

But newsflash, y’all: People want to talk about their faith.

I could not believe the enthusiasm that these women had for the Lord. And I would have never known had we just passed at the checkout line at the grocery store, or waved in passing.

Faith is out there. And I think people are so hungry to share it, and connect with people on a meaningful level.

I mean, by the end of the afternoon, a neighborhood bible study had been planned for this summer.

And none of that would have transpired, had the topic of God not been brought into the conversation.

And it got me thinking – if this trend is true for the neighborhood…what about the community? The city? The nation?

What would happen if we all stopped walking on egg shells and tip toeing around certain issues, and just decided to be bold and speak up about our faith?

How would that impact our little corners of the world?

Because real talk: our culture is in a moral free fall. And not even morality…even just human decency. Something’s gotta give.

How would things change if people started to talk authentically about God?

Because if we don’t, then who will? If we don’t open up a dialogue, then things are going to keep being swept under the rug, or tip toed around, until eventually, it stops having a place in peoples’ lives at all.

We’re doing such a disservice to future generations by not talking about the things that matter. Living in such a way that we’re straight-jacketed into never uttering anything that has a moral point of view because it may upset someone…we are to blame for the vomit-stained state of our country. 

If we don’t start standing up for what matters, it’s going to stop mattering.

Think about that.

If we don’t keep God in the conversation, He’s going to become irrelevant in the eyes of the masses.

People want to talk about their faith. There is such a deep yearning for an existence that means something more.

And it starts with you and me. Starting a conversation. Making people feel safe to talk about God.

God is attractive. And this party today demonstrated that.

I dare you to talk about Him this week.

You up for the challenge?

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beautybeyondbones

BBB: Because we're all recovering from something. // For speaking/business inquiries: beautybeyondbones@yahoo.com

371 thoughts on “Something’s Gotta Give”

  1. We’ve got a crippling fear of sharing our faith that needs to be jettisoned from our hearts like bad mayonnaise. Thousands face hell daily and we worry about social rejection. I confess this flat-out. Thank you so much for putting your finger squarely on this. May we all receive courage from Christ to share his light.

    Liked by 9 people

      5. I pray that people open their hearts to the possibility of God. Because as soon as you allow a crack in your foundation, God will swoop in an change your heart. All it takes is a teeny tiny crack, open to His possibility.

        Liked by 5 people

      6. I suppose I have no faith. Prayer means nothing to me, anymore,EVEN for a craaack.

        Like

      8. Religion today has slid too far from law of Moses. That’s what gets me down. Nobody knows the God of Israel, only pale replacements.

        Liked by 1 person

      9. Please, Caralyn, write about something other than God. Pleeeeeeeease. Pretty please. I wanna see the real you, not some roboticized fantasy version of you. After all, your blog is titled beauty beyond bones, right? That is about magic, right, and the reading of bones by soothsayers, isn’t it? Do some magic.

        Like

      11. Caralyn. I believe your writing shows the real you in each post. The real you is a worshipper and follower of Jesus Christ, sharing His Truths with others.
        The real us, is “spiritual beings” living in these bodies of flesh and bones. Please keep being real. The real you is beautiful.
        Luv,
        George

        Liked by 1 person

  4. I am a JW and love to talk about my faith. God is the reason we are all here, move and breathe. WHy wouldn’t we want to talk about him??? SO good read that others want to discuss the Bible and Christ and all that he has done for us. Great job here lady

    Liked by 2 people

  7. What a wonderful experience you had. Sometimes I think that the anti or non religious among us are so loud or strident that their influence becomes far greater than their actual numbers. You have shown that in at least some places those of faith remain in numbers that should make us more influential than we are.
    And challenge accepted!

    Liked by 2 people

  8. If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
    Mark 8:38 NIV

    Liked by 4 people

  10. Great writing! I despise political correctness and all the ‘sensitivity’ crap. Today it’s just not cool and acceptable to speak of our Christian faith, such a taboo which is so sad and ridiculous.

    Liked by 1 person

  11. It’s interesting that sometimes this social climate seems so anti-religion, that it makes sense people would crave it more! I think maybe people are tired of suppressing it, I hope faith makes a comeback 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

  12. Caralyn…you made my day. Reading your post reminded me of Joel 2:28-31. Also that Darwinian evolution of the last 150 years did us the service of stripping away the hypocrisy of attending church because it was an expected social norm instead of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ we would be willing to give our lives for.

    So glad you experienced the liberating freedom of the Holy Spirit that can be so natural and free of fear when we discuss our faith…I think that will be characteristic of our witnessing during this Joel 2 period…naturally honest and bold and genuine.

    I am excited just thinking about it. God bless you.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Aw, Barton, thank you so much! I’ll have to look up that scripture! I really appreciate this thoughtful reflection. i think you’re right — there is liberating freedom!! big hugs to you xox

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  13. In the South it’s much more often that God is woven in to conversation. I love it! What study did you all decide on? It sounds like a really fun party.

    Liked by 2 people

  14. Love love love this post!! You’re exactly right. I learned this lesson about a year ago, when I was blessed to spend time with Tim Tebow. He has such beautiful, amazing faith, and the way he talked so openly about it made me realize exactly what you did. He and his foundation, as well as some incredible friends, helped me become more open in my faith. That has changed everything.

    Liked by 2 people

  15. I’m so glad the experience of talking about God with your neighbors was such a positive one! when I think back on my own experiences talking to people about the faith, I’m kind of surprised that the stereotypes typically don’t hold up. what I mean is that you’re right, people are interested. maybe they aren’t interested in changing their minds, but they might be interested in knowing yours. and that is at least a dialogue.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks so much for this powerful reflection. You’re right, stereotypes don’t hold up when it comes to God. And you’re right – at least there is a dialogue! thanks for stopping by!

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  16. Another reason why I love you. Thank you for that post. Yes. We need to share. For me that is our Catholic Faith from a perspective that embraces the Sacraments of Eucharist and Penance, that emphasizes the Real Presence in the Consecrated Bread and Wine. I don’t mean to rant, but you catch my drift?

    Liked by 1 person

  17. This is something I try to do once a week in my discussions with people. Most of the time it’s discussing theology and Christian ethics/philosophy with them! It’s challenging and it drives me to dive into the word more! As John Piper said: Don’t just give the bible a touch, but swim in it. And in those discussions, I’m able to steer it towards sharing the gospel

    Liked by 1 person

      4. Great! we just had my whole family in town and that was amazing. i am really lucky to have such amazing siblings and sisters-in-law. they fill my spirit with so much joy. what about you, Tom!? hugs x

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      7. One thing I’m dealing with is just a struggle that’s becoming more prominent– it’s slightly awkward for me but I’m struggling in my singleness

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      8. oh gosh, Tom, I can definitely sympathize with that particular one. One thing that’s helped me is to just remember that God is good and is worthy of our trust. Because He has a plan for our lives is good and perfect. But trust me, I know how being in the thick of it — it’s not easy to remember that. But I guess radical trust is just how I’ve combated those struggles. Hang in there 🙂

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      15. haha oh gosh — can’t take credit for it though… thank the classic chick flick, “13 Going on 30” with Jennifer Garner. You won’t be disappointed if you put in the 90 minutes 🙂 hahah

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  18. I don’t it has anything to do with being politically correct, a phrase I’m really starting to despise. Since when is it politically correct to treat people decently? I think it has to do more with people feeling judged by those who forget that they haven’t always been at the foot of the Cross when they talk about their faith. I think if people remember Jesus was a humble man and God is about love and forgiveness; and not judgment. People wouldn’t mind talking about faith/God. But so many forget they are fallible human beings and haven’t always been at the foot of the Cross and there is a whole bunch of stuff in all those closets. You’re right we are in a moral crisis but those who believe are just as much to blame as everyone else. People are/were being pushed away because of the hate, judgment, politicizing of God, and hypocrisy that is not God like; and people just got tired of it. So yes people want to talk about faith but the Church has to take some responsibility for the current state as well.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. thank you so much for this, Tammi. i really appreciate this powerful perspective. you’re absolutely right – Jesus was about love, not judgement. and that’s a great point – there’s not just one single source – we’re all in it together. thanks so much for stopping by. big hugs xox

      Liked by 1 person

  19. Egad! If that isn’t the most incredibly wholesome “girl-next-door” picture that I’ve ever seen in my life, I don’t know what! You’re going to have guys combing Ohio looking for that mailbox.

    My own experiences were a little different. When I went out on Boy Scout backpacking trips, I’d set up off at the edge of the campsite to meditate, and time and again, an atheist would seek me out to argue about how stupid Christianity was. I mean – I was just looking out at the lake water! Yeesh!

    Liked by 1 person

  20. I live in a part of town where talking about faith is pretty natural. I mostly mention prayer and my willingness to pray for people. Once in the grocery store the lady behind me swore, “Jesus Christ” about something(the length of the line) and I turned around, grinned at her and said “yes He is.” She apologized for swearing. So that was intriguing that she was chagrined.

    Liked by 1 person

  22. Cotton candy grapes? Do I even want to know?

    This was great, and something I’ve experienced more in the south than in the north. Doctor offices often have bible passages framed in the waiting room, for example. The surgeon and nurse prayed with us before Hillary’s surgery a couple years ago. It’s very refreshing!

    I sent you an email on speaking. No rush; just so you know it’s there. meanwhile…

    To Patreon we go, to Patreon we go! Hi ho the merry-o – to Patreon we go! (sorry. long day)

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hey Jeff! haha oh my gosh yes, you need these grapes in your life. i’m literally sitting here eating them right now! haha. And thanks for this. you’re right, there are definitely still pockets where faith is alive and well. And wow, what a gift that nurse was for you during that time. Little did she know the impact that gesture had. love that. and yes! I did see that! i actually talked about it with my papa 🙂 — a lot of really exciting things in there that got me thinking!! Today was an unexpectedly tough day…I’ll email you. thanks for always being my encouragement angel! 🙂 hugs to you and julie!!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Sorry to hear it’s been a tough day. Yeah, I threw a ton at you in email. My brain starts racing and, well, there you have it. Be well. Prayers and hugs.

        Like

      3. I saw your comments at Patreon. Thanks for the support. Sometimes I’d like to be more of a reaper than a sower, but we all play our part, eh? I appreciate you very much!!

        Like

  23. What an amazing needed experience and post. Apart from political correctness all of us feel uneasy about forcing our ideas on other people, but Christians should feel comfortable about sharing the joy of God’s presence in our own life and just how peaceful and joyful that experience can be. That kind of approach is not overbearing or threatening. On the contrary it may be just what others around us feel they need without getting into a complicated theological discussion. The Gospel is more simple than people like to make it at times.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you so much! I’m so glad this hit home with you. and that is SO true — there is so much peace and joy that comes with Him. That’s what I want to share!! thanks for the encouragement. big hugs to you xox

      Liked by 1 person

  25. Amen, it’s so true. And it’s such a shame that we have let the ones who don’t want to talk about God, the very few with the LOUDEST voices, dictate the national conversation. Plenty of us want to talk about our faith, few are willing to take the plunge. That was, partially, what Fr. Isaac Hecker had in mind back in the 19th century and looking across America: what an enormous powerhouse for good and spirituality if we could just all make an attempt to feel the Spirit move and instruct us!

    So glad things went well and that there are follow-ups. The more you do, the more you write, the better this world becomes. God bless!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you so much Rich, I really appreciate that. I think you’re right – we need to be more vocal in the national conversation. Because we *can* offer a counter view and get people reconsidering. Yes! Let’s take the plunge! The HS will help us know what to say 🙂 And wow, what an incredibly kind thing to say. i am so touched. thank you, my friend. have a beautiful week. xox

      Like

  26. Okay I posted this on Facebook yesterday it is about my faith. I put at lest one Faith based post on my Facebook page every day. Hope this counts:
    JOHN 14:2 KJV In my Father’s house are many mansions: if [it were] not [so], I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
    Learned in Church today that this is, word for word, what the Hebrew bridegroom of Biblical times said in his betrothal covenant. It ended with them sealing their vow by sharing a glass of wine. The groom then went off to actually build a room onto his parent’s home. When finished, he came back to get his bride. Can there be any doubt that God created man AND women in his own image ( So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.) and thus it is the single married entity that was created in God’s image – not the individual man and woman.. And with these words and the last supper’s bread and wine, Christ was making a covenant with Man”

    Like

    1. Thank you so much for sharing this. Wow, what a powerful thing to share with your friends. I think that’s a great outlet to get faith out there! who knows what one little post can do! The Bible, being God’s word, has an incredible way of moving in people’s hearts in ways that we cannot even fathom. thanks for being His witness. big hugs xo

      Like

  27. Caralyn:

    Your mother’s neighborhood sounds really interesting. Imagine swimming in the deep end of the pool.

    Usually, the word that comes to mind about our culture is banal. Turn on any channel; select any dial on the radio; tune in on any conversation. As a kid, I wondered about the banality of evil where the moral dilemma we faced was like that of a conductor on a train bound for Auschwitz (never mind that cattle cars have no conductors). Moral numbness seems pervasive–or is it?

    I understand implicitly what motivated your new neighbors. My craving lately has been to swim in the deep end of the pool. Call it an identity crisis, if you will. These past two weeks I have written almost nothing and have spent my time reading Augustine’s Confessions. Call me crazy, but I have had an irresistible urge to study Latin these past two weeks. I understand your neighbors.

    Kinnamen and Lyons write (see review: http://wp.me/p3Xeut-1Kh) about the number of practicing Christians actually has not changed very much over time. What has changed are the number of cultural (legacy) Christians who still identify as Christians, rather than some other category. They also write about how a discouraging number of practicing Christians now buy into less-than-orthodox ideas, coming from non-Christian sources, such as New Age (Hinduism with a Christian wrapper).

    If you are skeptical about Kinnamen and Lyons’ research, ask people whether they believe that there are multiple paths up the mountain to reach God (a Hindu idea). It’s a trick question because there are no paths up the mountain to God. God is eternal and holy, and we are not. We cannot approach God; he must come to us. As Christians, we believe that he came to us in Jesus Christ.

    I loved your post, as usual.

    Stephen

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hey Stephen! Thank you so much for this powerful comment. There are no paths up the mountain of God – wow! what a profound prospective. You’re right, He’s a “swooper” and swoops in and ransoms us. And what a thought provoking perspective. Thank you again for sharing that. And ALSO!! *thank you* for the wonderful email last week. I admittedly let me email get away from me with the party planning, but I have been meaning to get back to you! I am very interested in talking about that! I’ll email you this week about it. Thank you. That’s incredibly generous. Hope you have a great evening!! x

      Liked by 1 person

  28. “Living in such a way that we’re straight-jacketed into never uttering anything that has a moral point of view because it may upset someone…”

    The resonance is strong with this one. It’s amazing how much it is drilled into us how to act and what we can and cannot say. I didn’t realize just how much until I was in a group of like-minded people recently and I felt a sense of the straight jacket falling away.

    Great read! ❤
    (I talked about God this week in a blog post. Does that count? 😉 )

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you so much, Amy! I’m so glad that this resonated with you so personally 🙂 I think you’re spot on — it’s bee drilled into us. I’m so glad you feel that falling away! woo! and absolutely 100%! that’s so awesome!! I hope you can hear me cheering on the other side of the computer screen! 🙂 hehe hugs to you xox

      Liked by 1 person

  31. There are some very green trees on your block. Pretty. 1A on NPR was talking about this. That, the roles, rules, and definitions within the Bible kind of make a religious bias. But, that Jesus was a radical of his time and really pushed boundaries. Love thy neighbor, was the theme. I think. Maybe, religion sets boundaries and publicly we set off to defend them rather than to see what we could agree on. We could all build walls around us and see who has the highest tower and that group is closest to God. Or, we could be radicals and, listen.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank so much Kenzie. Yeah, it’s amazing what bright sunlight can do to photos. That and springtime in Ohio 🙂 I think you’re spot on — Jesus was a boundary pusher. and that was his impact. You’re right – there is power in listening. thanks for this powerful perspective. your comments always make me think. big hugs xox

      Like

      1. Faith, creates these moments with strangers. I was in Phoenix and my friend and I sat on a corner for three hours talking about God. Five or six people came and we just kind of did it. All strangers. When I was imprisoned, a chaplain exchanged his freedom for mine. I felt, um very unworthy of it. I believe that’s why I try to help others and, stay out of trouble. There are ways to, come together. God is not the problem people make problems.

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      2. Wow, that sounds like an incredible conversation. I wish i could have heard it. and wow, what an amazing gesture by that chaplain. my goodness. wow. thanks for sharing that. big hugs xox

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      3. You ever thought of, taking up what your mom was trying for? I’d come listen to you in your church.

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      4. thanks for saying that 🙂 i have actually thought about interviewing my mom for this blog, either in podcast form or just a post. i don’t know. she’d have to be on board. i’ll pray about it 🙂 x

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      5. 😀 Riverside Church in NYC is run by Pastor Amy. She used to work in New Orleans. I was helping in New Orleans at that time. It would be cool to hear your mom’s perspective. It’s great to hear all these different sides. My kids go to some mega church in Arizona. We talk about it all. Even the hard stuff for dads. I’m pretty sure love and divorce are like hard for, everyone. Yeah.

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      10. Thanks for asking Kenzie, I just saw what happened. How sad. My heart and prayers are with those people. I’m actually in Ohio, so I’m safe. But thank you so much for checking in! Hugs xox

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  33. Amen, pastor! You are, with your powerful testimony, spreading His Word. In my prayers for you an your family, I see you going to seminary school and becoming a powerful speaker and evangelist. So proud of you! Hi to your Mom!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hi Rick! oh gosh, thank you so much. and wow! what a powerful thing to dream and think about. you are incredible, you know it? Thank you for your prayers and encouraging me in such a personal and positive way. i am very grateful for you 🙂 and I definitely will! she’s sitting right next to me 🙂 … eating cotton candy grapes 🙂 hehehehe have a blessed week! big hugs xox

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      2. Gosh, I’m sorry to hear that things have been hectic. But way to put those challenges to good use! i’ll definitely keep you in my prayers 🙂 thanks again, and have a beautiful night! xox

        Liked by 1 person

  38. You are roaring like a lion:

    Let love explode and bring the dead to life
    A love so bold
    To seek a revolution somehow
    Let love explode and bring the dead to life
    A love so bold
    To bring a revolution somehow
    Now I’m lost in Your freedom
    In this world I’ll overcome
    My God’s not dead
    He’s surely alive
    He’s living on the inside
    Roaring like a lion
    God’s not dead
    He’s surely alive
    He’s living on the inside
    Roaring like a lion
    (From the song by the Newsboys)

    Keep it up. People need to hear about Jesus. They long for freedom. They want to lead a meaningful life. People are longing for something to fill the God shaped hole in their heart. They will never find what they are seeking if someone does not lead them to Jesus. Every Christian is called to be a member of the Priesthood of all Believers. We are all charged with sharing the gospel, the good news, with the world. You are doing that when ever you share your faith with another.

    Keep it up!

    Liked by 1 person

  40. Every single day, may God create simple opportunities for us to share our faith in real and gracious ways. May what others see in us be the Light that draws them near. May we be bold and courageous because He will never leave us nor forsake us. Thank you for sharing. ❤️

    Liked by 1 person

  41. Ever since I saw your blog, I felt an instant love for it (though it may seem out of the ordinary for a blogger, that focuses on gaming and randomness, to enjoy such content as yours)! The personality you show in your posts, the love, the faith, it’s all inspiring to me. Keep up the great content, I can only strive to be as successful in life as you are!

    Like

  42. I could not agree with you more. We should not be afraid to talk about our faith at all. Me, I can’t not talk about God at all because I was born into my faith and God has done so much for me. To not share my faith would be not sharing a part of myself.

    Liked by 1 person

      1. I might write something from my response to your latest blog. Looking back at my college days I felt a little held back in my writing because I didn’t want to sound too churchy. Sometimes I wonder if I sound too churchy with my blog. I write what I know though.

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  44. This comes as a surprise to many and yet Jesus told us that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. The biggest issue with discussing faith is our own inhibitions.
    There is a classic example of how effective talking about faith is when we look back 100 years. 5,000 bible students began a campaign of talking to others publicly, going to their houses, on the street, in market places to talk about Gods Kingdom, the Gospel. The impact? They reached out to those who were ‘poor in spirit’ (Matthew 5: 3) of those aware of spiritual need as some translations more accurately render the Greek phrase. More than 8,000,000 individuals share every month in talking to their neighbours about the Gospel, sharing their faith.
    On a personal level it makes your heart rejoice.For all the negative experiences one positive makes it worth while. Note the words at Matthew 24: 14 because we live in troubled times and action is required.
    It is a great account. Family and community are so important to all of us.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks so much for this. I think you’re so right- this biggest issue really is our own inhibition. What a powerful example. Thanks for sharing that with me 🙂 Hugs and love xox

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  45. Loved this piece too. Yes, it is so important to mention Him due to whom we have so much joy and success in our lives. Such a lovely idea to have a neighbourhood party. I’ve had that on my mind…. now I’ll do it soon. Hopefully. Lots of love. You sure are one of a kind. Stay blessed.

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  46. My dear friend,

    when we all give respect to each other and even include all other people with different faith (we are Christians, others are Hindus, Moslems, Buddhists, Sikhs etc.) – then we will rise above the limitations of our own religion as we are all children of God, noone is excluded as God has not made first-class people and second-class people. So we all are human beings, first of all and when we understand that man made religions but God made man – then all religions come closer to each other. Love is important for all people – and God is love, is light, is life. And as He was the Creator of the creation with man next to Him – He wants us to treat us as brothers and sisters in Him. However we hide behind words which are just a translation between soul and mind – and the Wordless One has in fact no words – because no words can justify Him. In this case we pinpoint our words, build fenses and walls around and fight for them in a mind game – in doing so we more and more take distance from love and respekt. In all our hearts there is this temple of God, His throne – so when I know that God resides in every heart – how can I hurt such a heart…
    Saints said: God loves the sinner but not his sins – in this way we should treat all our brothers and sister and have love and respect for everyone, no matter which country they belong to, no matter their skin-colour, no matter their religion, their faith or which nationality they belong to – then we have understood what it means: “Love your neighbour as yourself…”

    Thanks for sharing, dear friend
    And have relaxing time
    May God bless you, your mother, your family and all around you
    Didi

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    1. Oh my gosh thanks so much Didi. This is a really thoughtful and powerful reflection. I love that: love *is* important for all people. What a beautifully inspiring note. Thanks again. Here’s to loving our neighbors 🙂 Big hugs xox

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  47. Thank you for writing about this. Yes, we need God and we need to talk about Him. We need food and we really enjoy talking about food. Folks are always wanting to get or give a recipe. Why is ok to do that but God is considered off-limits in most conversations. We need God like we need food and I’m so ready for someone besides we in “flyover country” to have conversations about this. Great article today!

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  48. How wonderful – your words, your site, your conviction! You made my morning (again)! Thank you – and yes, we need God . . . I need God! Keep writing and inspiring! God Bless.

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  49. A very thoughtful, insightful post…faith is key. To keep it under wraps denies growth. Thanks for sharing this! Cheers!

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  50. I recognize that what I will say will seem controversial and provocative, so my intention is not to insult, but to delve deeper into the topic.

    It’s been my experience and observation, that those with a positive experience with God are typically the ones that have the most ease discussing Him. It’s also been my observation and experience that those that have had God or Religion imposed on them, have the most difficult time discussing it. This topic reminds me when “Passion of The Christ” – starring Jim Caviezel – hit theaters. I know a man with profound faith had said, about that movie, “For those who believe, this movie will have an impact; but I would imagine for those that do not believe, it will be just another movie.”

    I suppose my point is this: Commonality eases the challenges of opposing views and when encountering someone of similar views, it is a form of empowerment. There is safety in numbers, right?

    But what about facing the world when there is an outright rejection of the faith you want to bring? And how does one truly love their enemies?

    I’m starting to ramble into something else, so I’ll pause there…

    I have followed your blog for quite some time and you always have a way of encouraging a more positive relationship with God – even for those of us that can’t find a safe-place to be with that God. For that, I think you have a beautiful heart. But I would be lying, if I denied my own tumultuous relationship with a God, or Higher Power, one that constantly questions what is or is not right or wrong…

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    1. Thank you so much for this thoughtful reflection. This is a powerful perspective and I appreciate you sharing your heart. I think you’re right- we all want to feel safe, especially when talking about a vulnerable topic. Hugs and love xox

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      1. …there are days, when I read your posts, and I have a thought that I’m not so sure is fleeting. There are days, I feel like letting go and handing myself over.

        Maybe, someday I can.

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