Ever wish you could reach out to a friend in crisis, but you’re just not sure what to say? Most of us tend either to avoid the person or situation altogether or to rush in and say too much. The list below demonstrates some ways you can effectively support people in need. Notice how these responses acknowledge and reflect the person’s feelings without judging him or her or offering unwelcome … [Read more...]
When God Gives Detours
It was a road trip vacation for the Swindoll-Thompson family . . . a 2,288-mile road trip to be exact. At 1:00 a.m. on the morning we were to leave, I was doing some last-minute packing. I reached into my clothing drawer, never expecting to uncover a little framed school picture of my son Jon from 2004. Though I had reached for socks, instead I pulled out a photo in a 3x4-inch tattered frame … [Read more...]
But . . . Why?
- Written by Colleen Swindoll Thompson One of the first questions my children asked was, “Why?” It came at unwanted bedtimes, unexpected mealtimes, undesired moments of discipline, and unforgettable experiences of sacrifice and forgiveness. A wonderful innocence surrounds the question of “Why?” I don’t think we ever outgrow that basic question… at least, we don’t until we settle one of life’s … [Read more...]
The Gift Of Grace
No one expected him to succeed. He was made fun of in school because of a horrible stuttering problem. His older brother and sister were brilliant; most often he felt like a shadow child rather than a sibling. Though extremely talented, the young shadow boy struggled to speak even one sentence clearly, causing him to question the value or purpose of his life. Early into his freshman year of high … [Read more...]
Desert
When I say desert, what comes to your mind? Perhaps the brilliant stars, the bursting colors, or the brisk, cool evening air that brings relief from the day’s heat. Such thoughts refer to physical deserts, but I’m thinking of the periods in our lives that leave us feeling desperate, disillusioned, and dry. Desert seasons lack sparkling stars and brilliant colors, don’t they? Some of you have … [Read more...]
Free To Be
Mother's Day 2012. At our annual lunch celebration, I sat with my niece Jessica and my son Jon. Jessica, only a few months younger than Jon, looked absolutely stunning. Full of life and intellectually gifted, she carries a joyful wonder about life that is so delightful. As I watched her, I began to recall the days and weeks and years she and Jon played together. Over time, Jon’s challenges caused … [Read more...]