“You are the sky. Everything else is just the weather.” Pema Chodron

Nurture a powerful inner life, one that knows the skill of possessing one's soul by patiently trusting that God is at the helm. Train yourself how to remain calm, until calmness is the natural state of your soul.

“In your patience, possess your soul.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 10/28/25

"If you're brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello." Paulo Coelho

Grace offers us a new beginning every morning we wake to it. Start where you are and walk, run, or crawl, if you have to, toward the health and happiness that Christ offers. A step away from the old is a step toward all that is new. Take it. 

“The grace of God…teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.“Conversations Within” ts 10/27/25

“A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.” Mark Twain

I have a symbol on my surfboard that simply means, “put your whole heart in it.” I put it there to remind me that when I am paddling for a wave I need to give it my all. Wholehearted living is the invitation of God to us all. Is there really any better way to embrace the precious gift of life. 

“set your hope entirely on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” 1Pet.1.13 “Conversations Within” ts 10/26/25

The big picture

I am consistently encouraged to view life from a holistic perspective, no less by the Spirit of Christ living in me. He directs me to consider the viewpoint of both the eternal, not just from the limited horizon of what is temporal. Death, as well as life, come into clearer focus when I do. There is a calming grace when we look at everything from the throne of God.

“The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; the devout are taken away, and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil.” Is.57.1 “Conversations Within” ts 10/24/25

“Forgiveness does not change the past, but it does enlarge the future.” Paul Boese

Forgiveness adds unique value to our interactions. Learning to overlook another's failings is a necessary part of any healthy relationship. Practice it if you want to create, and sustain a gracious heart.

“Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you.” Eph.4.32 “Conversations Within” ts 10/23/25