Many of you are familiar with my story about the "Refiner's Fire." After months of debilitation and no clear prognosis during the worst of my illness, well-meaning friends would lovingly tell me I was "in the refiner's fire." I was tired of hearing that phrase. All I could think is, "It hurts and it's hot in there. I want out!" I was delighted when my dear mentor, Elizabeth called me. However, after briefly sharing what I was enduring, she responded → Read more
Many years ago as I was attempting to coach one of my key sales people, I became increasingly frustrated with the frequency with which he used the phrase, "to be honest with you." Finally, I simply said, "Don't be any other way with me!" Then I explained, "Every time you say, 'to be honest with you', I question how often you aren't being honest with me." Honesty and trust - such a valued quality in relationships! I just spoke with → Read more
A few years ago, my son was handed a speeding ticket for going generously over the speed limit.Family discussion ensued about a unique law in North Carolina which allows a Prayer for Judgement where one can plead a case, be found not guilty yet still the prosecutor receives the conviction. However, if the same offense occurs within a specified time frame, the person now receives fines and penalties on both charges. I don't remember what all was decided, but I → Read more
“Are you here to play? Welcome to the group, friend. I’m Gracie Jo!” It’s amazing how fast dogs become friends. Size, shape, breed, background seem irrelevant ….at least that’s what I’ve witnessed (usually). It’s a simple welcome sniff and let’s be friends and play! Meara (the tall Great Dane) and Gracie Jo are best friends. It seems the size difference (note Gracie Jo is standing on a chair) doesn’t matter. They love freely knowing they are loved. How do we love our friends? 1 → Read more
