Still Learning

“I haven’t learned that yet” is a phrase that I’m choosing to embrace as an idea of Still Learning because I believe it has practical applications to all five Habits of a Flourishing Life. Shauna Niequist wrote down this sentence after an experience with her sons as they were navigating a move from the Midwest …

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God-Given Space

Although I’ve mentioned my word-nerdiness in posts like Disrobing and Forest Bathing, I continue to be astonished when someone communicates an idea or concept that really resonates; it articulates accurately an impression that I’ve failed to convey with other words. And these moments truly leave me Respectfully Mystified when that theme is repeated from another …

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37 Words

“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” On today’s 50th anniversary, June 23, of Public Law 92-318, more commonly known as Title IX, I reflect …

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Show Up

“Just Show Up…with intentionality, recognizing that the words you use, the actions you display are going to have an impact on someone whether you intend that to happen or not.” These wise words were shared by Pharmacy Professor Kim Jones during a 2022 chapel service and resonated deeply with me as she shared of a …

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Reporting for Duty

Parking the Jeep between a set of faded white lines in the Penick lot outside of Fred DeLay Gymnasium and voicing the words “Reporting for Duty” may not bear the same weight as it would coming from a military member or first responder; however, that is exactly what I’m being challenged to do by pastor …

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Write This Down

Write This Down! These words leapt from the pages of Scripture this morning, echoing one of the discussion themes from yesterday’s dialogue group among faculty. As Cathy described a classroom experience where a student maintained crossed arms and a blank stare throughout her presentation, never once attempting to take any notes on information they would …

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Tuesday People

At this particular milepost while navigating this path to a flourishing life, I remain unsettled on the most fitting name for the core group of people that are essential elements to our personal, professional, and spiritual journeys. In one of the first blog posts, Who’s In Your Posse?, I offer an explanation for my fondness …

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Holding Space

In this current season of life, I am embracing the reality that I will always be on a journey of learning new things. This reality increases the probability that my insatiable curiosity will lead me into some sticky situations (Let’s just hope that I have at least nine lives so it doesn’t kill me!); but …

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Hearth Places

In January of 2010, our campus opened the Bowld Commons, a space where residential students might gather and engage in activities ranging from sports to meetings. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of teaching in the Bowld, gathering for GO Trip planning, engaging in conversations with students, and many other activities such as chili …

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Changing the Metrics

Stubborn streaks can arise within me, especially when it comes to certain tasks and topics where our culture is more comfortable accepting the status quo, doing what has always been done, rather than asking hard questions. Wrestling with these difficult queries, embracing the challenges that they generate, and allowing the process to unfold is an …

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