Amazing Grace is one of my all-time favorite songs. Written by a former slave-trader who lived a less- than-stellar life before he met Christ, this usage defines grace as God’s eternal, life-saving, undeserved favor. The origins of grace in Latin are related to thankfulness --and in Greek, to rejoicing. God is thankful and rejoices over us when we recognize and accept his graciousness (Isaiah … [Read more...]
Mom’s Worst Critic
Have you heard her sneering, nasty thoughts? “Can’t get it together!” “Doesn’t do enough for her child!” “Babying him!” “Gosh, no one else complains at the school like that!” “So demanding! So chaotic! What a mess!” “If only those signs weren't missed, there might be a better outcome.” “Oh, my goodness! Should have caught that problem much sooner... Missed some important opportunities... … [Read more...]
The Antidote for Fear and Anxiety: What to Do When You Fear the Future
Everyday, we face situations we cannot control ... We receive a bad report from a doctor. A job (and it's desperately needed paycheck) suddenly becomes unstable. Your child cannot sleep through the night. When anxiety places its cold hand on our shoulder because of a difficult circumstance and the future seems unsure, we are presented with a choice: Keep on struggling in fear ... or choose to … [Read more...]
How We Can Look toward a New Year with Hope
I don't know about you, but I have always found as a special needs parent, that all of the typical comments that come with a new year ring really hollow...all the wishes that are definitely well-meant, like... "May this be your best year ever..." "May this year bring good health and healing to you and your family..." I'm not trying to be negative or pessimistic here ... I'm all for … [Read more...]