It's one of the banes of church leadership. But yes, it is everywhere. People using indirect tactics to communicate thoughts and emotions, but not verbalise honestly, usually to avoid conflict. Brushing people off. Muffled responses. Attention focused on only certain people. Fake apathy in dialogue. Not responding to messages. Pretending to be good, but really … Continue reading From one passive-aggressive to another
Gratitude, Silence, and Conviction
What inspires you? I had the opportunity over the past 2 days to be challenged and encouraged in a variety of ways, from 2 different sources. First, I was treated to tremendous stories of dedication and sacrifice. Those in mission to change lives, bring freedom to others, and relieve the pain of poverty. It is … Continue reading Gratitude, Silence, and Conviction
Can you afford good training? I think so…
Sorry folks. It turns out my research was wrong. The grant I was offering was/is available, but not to non-profit organizations. And guess who I do most of my work with... Non-profits! So, I'm sending this out again, with a few corrections. Hopefully we can still work together... I blogged this last year around this … Continue reading Can you afford good training? I think so…
Batteries Not Included
That's the classic fine print on the bottom of the box of many an electronic device! This came to mind as a speaker at a recent gathering had trouble with his microphone. Every few sentences the sound would disappear and he would have to make a joke about it. It grew uncomfortable until he finally … Continue reading Batteries Not Included
Living Better Together!
You may have noticed this title before. It's the name of the workshop I facilitated in 2 communities this past month. And I think it's pretty awesome, but I may be biased. As the tagline suggests, it's all about helping people develop healthy relationships within their families. I would extend that to all levels of … Continue reading Living Better Together!
Thank you Little Grand!
The workshop may have been small, but the sharing was deep! I had yet another opportunity to share my living better together workshop, discussing communication and relationship-building within families and communities. We had a little trouble getting word out, but once the right people were on the case everything moved nicely! Many thanks to those … Continue reading Thank you Little Grand!
Do you suffer from ‘contemptible behaviour’?
"You may have heard that I'm a bit of an a**hole, and I'm not denying it!" (Quote from a new general manager being introduced) This term is used often nowadays, both in lighthearted contexts and as a source of pride for people who suffer from 'contemptible behaviour'. (Source: English Language & Usage) I like that … Continue reading Do you suffer from ‘contemptible behaviour’?
Youth Leaders Retreat!
I have often said in the past that one of my favourite aspects of youth ministry is the idea of potential. Potential, not just because of the energy and the fact that they have many years ahead of them. Potential here is found in the hope they hold. There is a fresh view on an … Continue reading Youth Leaders Retreat!
A Time for Everything
"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens" (Ecclesiastes 3:1) I was blessed to celebrate the ministry of a long term servant leader this Sunday. After many years of organizing, preparing, and helping others to succeed, she felt her time had come to a close. The beauty of … Continue reading A Time for Everything
Do you need a chairperson?
You might. I asked this of a friend recently regarding a personal group I was working with, wondering if this role just might be essential in all areas of life. I hate being managed, it goes with my personality and leadership style, so I was a little sheepish when I asked. He liked the idea, … Continue reading Do you need a chairperson?
Thank you Spartans!
Another great workshop with the Trinity Western University women's basketball team is in the books! To think, our time was nearly cut in half due to a delayed flight. But isn't that often how the best laid plans usually go? We have the perfect formula set in motion, and then all the variables of life … Continue reading Thank you Spartans!
The Best Gifts
Did you get everything you wanted for Christmas? It is a strange question to ask when you think of it. Gifts are unearned, in disguise, and often without a foreknowledge of the reason behind them. Until we open them. Then we may get a story, a moment, or a surprise. Asking if you got what … Continue reading The Best Gifts
