Quick to listen. Slow to speak. Slow to anger. Those are the key words from one of my favourite Bible verses. James talks about not showing favoritism, doing right, and controlling your reactions. Those words speak to me everyday; especially when things seem out of control. Control is elusive. When we do not have it, … Continue reading Learning to Listen
The Audacity of Hope
This book has literally been staring me down for the past 3 years. Given the current set of circumstances, it felt like a good time to crack it open. I am also preparing to preach for Trinity Sunday. It's the week after all of the Easter stuff is done, and we talked about the amazing … Continue reading The Audacity of Hope
Bell Let’s Talk
I dug up this post from about 2 years ago. All about communicating, especially when it's awkward. Mental health and stigma can have that effect. So keep talking, don't just save it for one day. https://wp.me/p7PiXg-oK
Humble Communication
"Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy" I used to absolutely hate singing this song in church. It still makes me cringe. But for some reason I've been humming it a lot this Advent season. The song is based on a comparison Jesus makes between the postures of 2 people while praying. "Thanks for not making … Continue reading Humble Communication
Clarify what you mean!
Do you bring clarity to your situation? We all speak in code. It just happens when we become familiar, feel accepted, and develop our own little culture. Each setting, if observed closely, has a language and a set of mannerisms, and that brings unwritten expectations of participants. The sooner you admit that you are part … Continue reading Clarify what you mean!
Let’s Talk…But don’t save it for one day
I love the #BellLetsTalk initiative. It creates awareness to mental health issues, and destroys barriers created by ignorance and stigma. Unfortunately, there is a big push for that day, and then it fades. People shut up, listening is deafened, and awareness slows. I know for myself, my family, and friends around me, there is much … Continue reading Let’s Talk…But don’t save it for one day
Winning Friends and Influencing People
Christmas is long passed, and the New Year is getting old. What do you have planned to start things right? One of the books that has left a mark on my life, ministry, and friendships was introduced to me by my dad many years ago. I have seen the outline put to work in many … Continue reading Winning Friends and Influencing People
Jubilee Retreat: Creating space to listen
I had the privilege of joining some of the ministry leaders of Jubilee Church for a day at the cottage this past weekend, and I felt blessed for it! There is nothing quite like being in the beauty of creation with folks who desire to listen for clarity in their vision. For me it is … Continue reading Jubilee Retreat: Creating space to listen
Your smartphone does not help you listen
Active listening is important. I recently read a study on how people actually feel about smartphone use during meetings. (You can read it here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/20140922000612-50578967-why-successful-people-never-bring-smartphones-into-meetings) Not just business meetings, but people sitting and talking to one another in a general attentive manner. Rather, where we would assume people are attentive. Across the board, and across … Continue reading Your smartphone does not help you listen
Lead Freely 