Sometimes what we need is someone to put their arm around us and meet us where we are, whatever that looks like

That’s the thing about transformation, isn’t it? It can rip us apart, put us back together, and at times – often, if we’re being honest – presents us with something or someone unrecognizable.

With a fair amount of trepidation in my heart and a sprinkle of “well, okay, I guess we’re doing this,” we hopped in the truck and made our way to the hardware store to rent a jackhammer.

It was early morning, and the air was cool as we drove through the gates and made our way closer to the water and the island. Away from the noise of the city, we could hear the sound of our tires crunching down the road as scores of birds called out. The quiet was, for once, a balm rather than a thorn.

The precipice is its own kind of freedom, isn’t it? I can’t do anything but let go and hang on. Let go of my own best-laid plans. And hang on to the hope that “maybe I’m just falling to get somewhere they won’t.”

I think that everyone, at least once in their life, should have the chance to love and care for a senior dog.

Hang in there; I know you can. There is so much goodness waiting for you on the other side of this moment.

Over the years, I've gathered a few tools into my toolbox that have helped me learn how to extend grace and understanding to others in the face of challenging circumstances, and today I would like to share with you a few practical tips and tricks as I walk through a quick step-by-step guide.

We take small seeds of hope, and we plant them in the ground. We cover them with dirt. We water them. And we hope that one day they produce.