Category: Loving Others

Don’t Fall for This Major Myth About Friendship

Until I went to college (hundreds of miles from home), I didn’t truly understand the reality of having friends for a season. But when I left my hometown and started meeting new people at college, I realized how difficult it was to maintain long-distance friendships with my friends back at home. My friends from home and I sometimes stayed in touch, but other friendships fell by the wayside. There were no “friend breakups” or anything dramatic like that. But I definitely had to come to terms with the idea that God sometimes brings people into our lives for a season—and when they leave (or we leave), that’s an opportunity to form friendships with new people instead of a reason to throw a pity party for every single friendship that ends.

3 Characteristics of Meaningful Conversations

Perhaps I’m not very fond of surface-level conversations because, as an introvert, I appreciate connecting with friends on a deep level—like one-on-one meetings at cute coffee shops and after-church conversations that last until the pastor turns out the lights in the sanctuary. Although big gatherings can be intimidating to me, small gatherings are my happy place. I enjoy getting to know people better by asking good questions and by giving good answers to their questions. There are a few characteristics—encouraging, transparent, and Christ-centered—that I believe are essential for having meaningful conversations. Here’s why.

25-Day Coronavirus Card Challenge

Isolation can lead to discouragement and depression, especially for extroverts (but even for introverts like me). Because video chatting just isn’t the same as seeing someone in person. And virtual hugs aren’t nearly as great as physical hugs. So what can we do? We can write cards.

How to Respond When You’re Rejected (Again)

I couldn’t believe Reagan got up and left her seat beside me to sit with other people. Why had she rejected me again? Or, I could be asking myself when I will put the past behind me and forgive Reagan…because maybe I never really forgave her for rejecting me the first time.

The Truth About Our Smartphone Addiction

I stared at the group of college students across the cafeteria as they ate dinner together. At the full table, I couldn't help but observe how many eyes were glued to phone screens. The scene was saddening but not unusual in our society. When did eating a meal together stop revolving around rich laughter, deep conversation, and friendly encouragement?

We’re All Losers–But That’s a Good Thing

Even though losses can be temporary and mean little in the long-run, they are still disappointing to experience. But there is something beautiful about losing that we could never experience if we always won. The beauty of losing is that we know how others feel when they lose. We can empathize, reassure, and strengthen those who have lost because we know exactly how they feel.

Finding My Heart of Compassion

Last month, I served for the first time ever at a food pantry. I’d once helped with the behind-the-scenes work at a food pantry, but I’d never been there while people actually got their food. In short, my experience was different than I’d expected.

Create a website or blog at WordPress.com

Up ↑