CREEKSIDE MINISTRIES

The Drama Queen

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Tue, 29 May 2012 20:25:00 +0000

You know who those Drama Mamas are. The ones where everything is a great big deal. All of life is a major production - and they are the stars. Constantly stressed to the max, every occurrence, every life event, every piece of news provides yet another stage for them to overreact. The end of the world is usually at hand.

Every star has their own melodramatic bag of tricks. Some love the off-the-charts responses. Their gig is defined by loud, incessant moaning and groaning, the woe-is-me pity parties, the endless litanies of past hurts and injustices, occasional throwing of objects to make their point, and grand exits as they flounce out of the room, doors slamming behind them.

Others are more subtle. The weight of the universe is on them, and they want you to know it. Endless deep sighs and rolling of the eyes, impromptu weeping, the silent treatment, and sudden physical symptoms that erupt out of nowhere are all designed to capture sympathetic attention and manipulate those who hold court around them.

Somewhere along the way, and often unconsciously, the drama queen realized that commotion, confusion, and frenzy were her friends, handing her the attention that she was not able to get in more legitimate ways. Even negative attention was better than no attention at all. Raising the roof worked for her and she stuck with it.

And then there were the enablers who allowed the productions to continue unabated. They made excuses or covered up or prevented natural consequences from kicking in. And in doing so, paid her to continue her grand performances.

Truth be told, the every-minute-is-a-trauma lifestyle gets old after awhile. What was cute or entertaining as a child has long past run its course. Even the leading lady gets tired, and longs for the show to be cancelled. The audience gets restless and bored, and heads off to find a quieter venue or less exhausting entertainment.

Two events turned Heather's propensity for drama upside down. And Miss Minimalist gives us 10 pointers that hit the nail on the head.

In the end, the whole drama queen thing is not simply an emotional problem. It truly is a spiritual malady. For some reason, the Holy Spirit hasn't been invited to take ownership of her exhausted, wounded soul. There is little or no 'love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control' residing in her heart {Galatians 5}. And it shows.

Jesus patiently, graciously beckons. He longs for His weary and broken daughters to learn from His gentle and humble heart, and to find rest, healing, and release from their oh-so-heavy burdens {Matthew 11:28-30}. Only He has the ultimate power to give supernatural peace and a healthy perspective in the midst of life's storms.

Linda

- picture by paul.malon -

God's "No"

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Sat, 26 May 2012 18:26:00 +0000

God invites and strongly urges us to continually be in conversation with Him about everything - He calls that "prayer." 1 Thessalonians 5:17 tells us to "keep on praying;" Philippians 4:6 enjoins "don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything;" and John 15:7 informs that "you may ask any request you like." Knowing that God gives good gifts to His children, we often pray and expect the answer to be the thing that will benefit us or give us pleasure.

However, there are times when God says, "No" to our request. Jesus entreated His Father three times, when praying in the garden, to have this "cup taken away from Him," but God said, "No." Paul, in 2 Corinthians 12, went to God three times to ask that the "thorn" he was given be taken away, but God said, "No."

What do we do when God says "No?" According to Paul in 2 Corinthians, when that answer arrives against all of our reason, we receive:

an ongoing abundance of God's grace that is sufficient for our weakness.
a realization that our weakness (or "No" answer) is an opportunity for God's strength and power to be demonstrated rather than for our pride, strength, or desire to get top billing.
the growth to say, "not my will but Yours be done."
an opportunity to trust Him more than a "Yes" would.
the deeper faith that trusts God for the future that we do not see or understand.

Someone said, "God cannot use a person greatly until He wounds him deeply." That was true for Jesus (the cross), Paul, Lazarus, and other giants of the faith.

Have you found His strength, grace, and a demonstration of His power when He has said "No" to your deepest request?

I would love to hear how God's "No" answers have grown and blessed you ~ Bob

Party in a Jar

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Sat, 26 May 2012 16:25:00 +0000

Summer has unofficially arrived! And in the next few months, you can bet you're going to be spending more hours than you can count with little people. Your own. Or nieces and nephews, grandchildren, neighbors, weekend visitors, or the VBS crowd.

Your key to survival just might turn out to be this oh-so-cool Summertime Jar from Over the Big Moon ...

Even ol' Grandma just might be convinced to try:

#2 Hot rocks with crayons

#3 Water balloon fight

#8 Squirt bottle water fight

#9 Jump on the trampoline with ice cubes

#22 Decorate a shoe box for all your summer treasures

#33 Marshmallow guns

#34 Excavate toys out of ice

Check out all 41 ideas - many come complete with instructions for those of us who don't have a clue, and the creators of this outstanding bucket list have graciously provided an easy to download list. And of course, the kids are going to want to add their own brilliant ideas to the mix! This sure beats endless hours of mindless absorption in screens or constant whining that there's nothing to do.

I'd love to know what worked for you and your little fan club. And before you get creative, be sure to weigh in with My Favorite Thing About Summer Is ...

Party ~
Linda

300 Seconds of Opportunity

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Fri, 25 May 2012 06:08:00 +0000

It was so much fun taking the 5 Minute Challenge last week that I just had to come back for more ...

It's all about running with whatever topic The Gypsy Mama hands out to those who eagerly await. And then writing for 300 seconds 'with no editing, no overthinking, no backtracking.'

Today's Assignment?
Opportunity

Ready, Set, Go!

Every day, every moment brings me opportunities. Choices and chances. How am I going to respond to what God sends my way?

I can choose to be grateful or to whine. I have the opportunity to show gratitude or to be self-absorbed, thinking of my own interests. I can look for the silver lining, or dwell on all that is negative.

Philippians 4 puts opportunity right in front of me. Will I consider things that are 'true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy'? Or get mired in all that isn't going my way?

Left to my own devices, my natural bent, I will probably go in the other direction. Truth be told ...

STOP!
Linda

- number 300 by Micah Taylor -

She's in the Kitchen?

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Wed, 23 May 2012 00:48:00 +0000

Yes I am, thank you very much! I have been known to roll on into the kitchen from time to time ...

and I've just got to share these two things today!

DOTTIE'S PINEAPPLE CAKE

I love this recipe! There's only TWO ingredients.

Does it get any easier than this?

Stir together 1 box of angel food cake mix and 1 can of crushed pineapple.

Pour into ungreased angel food pan or 9" x 13" pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.

Cool, remove from pan, serve with lots of whipped cream!

Thanks, Dottie! The ingredients store forever in the cupboard. It's a quick and yummy coffeecake for breakfast, a refreshing dessert after supper, a fairly healthy midnight snack, a pack-and-go pot luck treat, or a last minute birthday cake.

How good is that?

And since this takes next to no time to whip up, here's a super tool if you really get motivated to plan your menu for the week ...

FREE DINNER MENU PLANNER

This handy baby even comes with a built-in shopping list ... you can go ahead and print it up here!

Or if you're like me, you could just graze for leftovers in the fridge, and then hunker down and watch another repeat episode of Chopped!

Bon Appetit ~

Linda

Celebrating Inheritance of Hope's 5th!

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Mon, 21 May 2012 16:05:00 +0000

If you're connected with Inheritance of Hope as a retreat participant, volunteer, staff member, runner, donor, or prayer warrior, this celebration of the 5th anniversary is a big milestone for us all!

But especially for Kristen and Deric Milligan. And their 3 children.

From the first retreat 'til now? Truly a journey of hope and faith. A labor of love born out of one couple's desire to reach out to other families living with a life threatening illness. A gracious invitation to parents and children in crisis to embark on an adventure of a lifetime. Weekends filled with laughter and new friends, sparkling memories and a renewed vision for living well. All delivered by staff and volunteers with endless enthusiasm and grace-filled love.

It's been about designing and creating a legacy. The here and now kind that making memories together provides. Empowering parents, no matter what their health looks like, to prepare hands-on, thought-filled gifts for the next generation. And also discovering the deeper legacy of spiritual life in Jesus Christ.

From the anticipation of my first retreat, to musings on a NYC Thanksgiving weekend and the celebration of my 10th experience as an adult counselor, IoH has become deeply interwoven into my life.

It's not been just another professional opportunity.

I still remember my first conversation with Kristen. It seems so long ago, another time, another place. But what remains crystal clear was her sweet and strong gentleness as she spoke the vision that was blossoming in her heart and mind. And the invitation to join her and Deric, to develop adult support groups that would allow people to authentically connect with others in the same boat, to share their stories of pain and joy and tears and laughter and chaos and hope and fear. All the myriad of confusing facets that make up family life when living with a life-threatening illness.

And then to do the hard work of tenderly leading them to something stronger. Taking them oh-so-gently to a place that's a few steps beyond where they were when they arrived. To understand how to handle raging emotions. Deep discouragement. Desperation. To add a few helpful tools to the tool belt that's become depleted over time. To empower, to equip, to fortify for the next steps of the journey.

We've partnered together in leading a number of sessions along the way. And those moments are sweet gifts indeed ... cherished memories in my soul.

So, congratulations, sweet friend, to you and your gentle, loving husband. Thank you for that unexpected, quiet invitation to join you on your hope-filled journey. Each day you continue to touch countless lives by your powerful legacy. May God's blessings of peace-filled rest and gentle joy be yours as you live your life for Jesus and your family, one grace-filled moment at a time.

Lovingly ~

Linda

Her Introverted Life

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Sun, 20 May 2012 21:43:00 +0000

There's no two ways about it. I am an introvert. Born and bred.

That's no surprise to those who know me well. Even if they wonder out loud why I don't leave my cellphone on 24/7. Or text relentlessly back and forth. Arrive wherever and head straight for the back row or a unobtrusive seat in the corner. Say 'no thanks' to enthusiastic mingling and small talk with unknown souls. And abhor crowds of unruly people like the bubonic plague.

It's why I put an end to dragging my husband off to those huge, unwieldy counseling conferences. Filled with noise and commotion, we'd spend 12 - 14 hour days packed shoulder to shoulder with thousands of attendees. When all was said and done, the endless sessions and speakers and concerts left me burned out and hung over, instead of inspired and rejuvenated.

I'll take a silent retreat any day of the week.

I play house and write and take care of the business of life. I work hard at keeping in touch with my far flung family and the friends who feed my soul. A leisurely phone call, where I'll refuse to let the computer screen distract me from my focus on what's being spoken. A heart to heart brunch, or curling up in a cushy chair at Panera's for a long-anticipated conversation. And always aiming for a quiet time with God that matters and living a life that's sane and healthy.

All that peace and time and space is what equips me to be fully present with the women who venture into my counseling office two days a week. And allows me to go full steam ahead through hour after hour of the deep, soul-searching, intense conversations that are my life blood. And then I extend the graces of solitude and silence to myself when those sessions are over.

But more than ever, I love my evenings quiet.

As the sun heads down we two usually eat a simple, peace-filled supper together. We might play Scrabble or watch the news or talk about the family. Go for a walk or head to DQ. Maybe read quietly side by side with not a sound to mar the stillness. Or he'll putter in his wood shop and I'll curl up and watch Chopped. And then he'll make me a cup of hot chocolate {mine stacked high with whipped cream, his with one lone marshmallow}.

We savor the quietness of conversation and companionship ... and maybe a foot rub or two. Or no conversation at all. It doesn't matter, either way. Because to be fully present, without a single word, is the greatest gift one soul can offer another. And truth be told, that's the treasure that most of us are craving to receive.

No matter if you're introverted ... or not so much.
Linda

- thanks to Introverted Church and Pleated-Jeans for the illustration -

Jealousy - vice or value?

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Sat, 19 May 2012 17:02:00 +0000

Jealousy is always perceived as negative - a green-eyed monster that is motivated by pride and greed, and revealed by envy, frustration, spite, destructive behaviors and ruined relationships. God, however, calls Himself a "jealous God" in Exodus 20:5. He also says that one of His names is "Jealous" in Exodus 34:14. How do we explain this seeming self-disclosed weakness in God?

1. God uses terms like "jealousy," "hand," "finger," "joy," etc. to communicate who He is human terms that we can understand. If He used other than human expressions, we would not understand any facet of who He is. When God refers to Himself as "jealous," however, the term is not tainted with sin or negative connotations.

2. God's jealousy is about His zeal to protect the love relationship that He has with us. "Jealousy arouses a husband's fury" Proverbs 6:34. God's jealousy refers to guarding a marital relationship against attack - proof that the marriage is valued.

God is married to His people (the Bride of Christ) and He will not stand idly by when other suitors begin hitting on His wife. He is not tolerant of the gods of materialism, prosperity, success, workaholism and a myriad of other gods that contend for His place in our lives.

How does God's jealousy apply to us?

1. Appreciate that the God of the universe loves you so intensely that He will not allow other gods to take His place in your life.

2. God's jealousy requires us to be zealous for Him. He is passionately devoted to us and He expects the same from us. He expects us to have a burning desire to please Him and to love Him exclusively.

3. God's jealousy threatens Churches and individuals who are like Laodicea - sound in doctrine, respectable, but lukewarm. (Revelation 3:15f.) If we can be consumed with video games, rock concerts, and football games, how can we be anything less for the Lover of our Souls who paid such a huge price to redeem us from the just wrath of a God whose name is Jealous?

Loving the jealousy of God for me and my relationship with Him ~ Bob

Her 5 Minute Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Fri, 18 May 2012 10:02:00 +0000

I'm taking the 5 Minute Challenge over at The Gypsy Mama today. And while I'm no writer, I'm a just a bit intrigued at this newly discovered weekly invite to write for 5 minutes flat on the assigned topic.

'With no editing, no overthinking, no backtracking.'

Today's Topic?
Perspective

ready, set, GO!

Perspective? What kind of perspective could I possibly have at 5:54 in the morning? I've rolled out of bed oh-so-early. I stumble down the stairs with Bible and journal and devotional book in hand. And I know I'm going to do this 5 minute challenge.

But who wakes up at 5:30 to write, to create, to do a post?

Someone with very limited perspective today. The sun peaks out. The birds are enjoying an early morning feast, singing their songs. They are alive and emerging. I am still sleep-deprived, foggy, and not quite sure what's going on.

So I'm thankful that the time I know I'm going to spend with you Lord is going to give me yet another viewpoint, another perspective of life and love from Your Word. You long to give me Your heart, Your mind, Your words, Your ways. I need to see all of life from where You're sitting. I'm filled with gratitude this morning that You've got the perspective I know I need and that You are eager to give it to me.

So sharpen my mind and heart as I open Your Word and pull out my pen and fill another page or 2 with our ...

STOP!

- Linda

- #5 by Leo Reynolds -

Just Watch Those Mountains Fall ...

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Thu, 17 May 2012 12:02:00 +0000

I'm so very ordinary, nothing special on my own.

Oh, I have never walked on water,

And I have never calmed a storm.

Sometimes I'm hiding away from the madness around me

Like a child who's afraid of the dark

But when I call on Jesus,

All things are possible

I can mount on wings like eagles' and soar

When I call on Jesus,

Mountains are gonna fall

'Cause He'll move heaven and earth to come rescue me when I call

Weary brother, broken daughter,

Widowed, Widowed lover you're not alone

If you're tired and scared of the madness around you

If you can't find the strength to carry on

When you call on Jesus,

All things are possible

You can mount on wings like eagles' and soar

When you call on Jesus,

Mountains are gonna fall

'Cause He'll move heaven and earth to come rescue you when you--

Call Him in the morning', in the afternoon time

Late in the evening' He'll be there

When your heart is broken,

And you feel discouraged,

You can just remember that He said

He'll be there

When I call on Jesus,

All things are possible

I can mount on wings like eagles' and soar

When I call on Jesus,

Mountains are gonna fall

'Cause He'll move heaven and earth to come rescue me

- Nicole C. Mullins -

Watching Him Do Miracles ~

Linda

Note from a Slanderer

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Mon, 14 May 2012 16:25:00 +0000

Hello. My name is Slanderer.

My life is defined not by who I am in Christ or by my giftedness, accomplishments, or loving relationships. Instead, hurt, frustration, fear, and the disrespect that has been leveled at me along the way has come to mold and shape me. I operate from a place of weakness and powerlessness. I am often vulnerable, angry, and have little self-esteem or confidence.

In order to somehow defend myself and feel more important, I attempt to destroy relationships by sowing seeds of distrust. Through accusation, gossip, and idle chatter, I specialize in attacking another's character, defaming them and damaging their reputation. My words are cunning, malicious, and gather strength with age. The more I am quoted, the more I am believed.

I work very hard at separating close friends, splitting families, dividing churches, and destroying relationships. I gather people around me and cause them to take sides. In doing so, I produce doubt, confusion, heartache, health maladies, sleepless nights, and tear-stained pillows. I maim without killing. I break hearts and ruin lives.

In the end, I am nobody's friend because I prove that I cannot hold a confidence, will lash out when angry, and will do my best to destroy whoever crosses me.

Over time, my heart has become more wounded and hardened. Jesus said, 'For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks' {Luke 6:45}. And Jesus' brother James talks about my tongue. He says that 'it corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell ... it is a restless evil full of deadly poison' {3:6,8}.

Yes, my name is Slanderer. I desperately need healing for all the pain and brokenness that has defined my life. I need to forgive and release those who have deeply hurt me along the way. And I need to seek forgiveness from those who have been so gravely injured by my own destructive words.

- adapted from piece by unknown author -

Linda

- illustration by franko_44 -

Gifts for Your Mama

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Fri, 11 May 2012 12:41:00 +0000

You frantically scan the rack, looking for just the perfect card. Every one you pick up is either sappy sweet or downright stupid. You head on over to grab a box of candy. Nope ... she's trying valiantly to shed a few pounds. How 'bout flowers? Mmm ... not so much - she's allergic to all things growing. Maybe a pair of slippers? I don't think so - she hasn't worn them since 1978.

What to get your mama? For Mother's Day or her birthday or just to say 'I love you'?

Hint - think experiences that add to the memory bank. Not stuff that will need to be cleaned, arranged, moved, sorted, or adjusted.

I am loving Miss Minimalists's simply delightful ideas that will show affection and appreciation. Don't worry. They're easy. Fun. You'll make a memory or two. And your mama won't end up like my grandma who left this earth with umpteen boxes of Coty's L'Aimant dusting powder stored away in her linen closet to be used the twelfth of never ...

I do believe Grandma would have loved some of these experiences on Miss Minimalist's Top 10 List!

My picks?

#1. Cook your mom a delicious meal.

#4. Write your mom a poem or a personal letter.

#7. Put together a “gourmet basket” for your mom.

#8. Take your mom out for a Mother’s Day picnic.

#10. Take your mom out for a cultural experience.

{But Chinese food is sounding mighty good right about now!}

And if 10 ideas aren't enough for you, here's 10 more that I just picked up from Relevant ... and I'm pretty sure they've never even crossed your mind!

Mother's Day can be a difficult holiday to navigate through. If your mother is not with you any more, would you consider choosing to honor her memory by sharing one of these gifts with another family member? Mentor, neighbor, or pastor's wife? Small group leader or friend?

I'd love to hear what you chose to do ...
Linda

Ian & Larissa's Story

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Wed, 09 May 2012 17:05:00 +0000

Sometimes we need to pause and pull away from our own endless self-absorption. Settle down and be quiet. And capture a glimpse of someone else's world. So we can fully appreciate, once again, all we possess. Reconsider what we yearn for. And discover what authentic commitment and true love really requires.

Ian and Larissa take us there.

'Love never gives up. Love cares more for others than self.

Love doesn't want what it doesn't have ...

Isn't always 'me first' ... Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth ...

Trusts God always, always looks for the best,

never looks back, but keeps going to the end.

Love never dies.'

- 1 Corinthians 13 {The Message}.

Thanks to the former client who shared this powerfully compelling story. Truth be told, most of us needed to view it more than we'd care to admit.

And our gratitude to you, Ian and Larissa, for sharing your strong, sweet romance with us.

Linda

Toddler Photoshoot

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Mon, 07 May 2012 17:54:00 +0000

Re-energized by a weekend nap and raring to go, the little sisters in their brand new, matching party dresses raced around the living room, peals of joyful laughter and enthusiastic chatter filling the air. I just knew that it was time to get grab my camera before pizza and homemade chocolate cake were added to the mix. 'Let me get a quick picture before the party!'

But there was no way these little ladies were going to stand still and 'say cheese.' Toddlers don't stand still. It's just not going to happen. And no matter how you beg and plead and bribe, few of them are interested in posing for the camera at your convenience. Especially when there's a growing pile of bright shiny boxes and bags with ribbons that are calling their names. Larger than life Minnie Mouse balloons mesmerize as they reach to the sky. All kinds of fun people are just about to walk through the door. And it's time to party!

They were on the run. I should have simply taken a video. 'Let's have them sit on the blue chair,' their always optimistic, ever-patient mama decided.

mmm ... not so much. Because this is the chair that BOUNCES! Eagerly, they jumped to their feet and took a quick turn to check out their mama's vintage teacup collection.

And then the chair magically morphed into a real-life trampoline! Jumping up and down with great glee, they sprang into action. Literally. And the real party began ...

Happy birthdays, sweet sisters. My Lex and Brookie Cookie, precious answers to oh-so-many fervent prayers. Beautiful bundles of exuberant life. Little miracles that radiate God's goodness and blessing. I love you so.

And now Grandma needs a nap. Because we'll all be together again next weekend. And your four enthusiastically-overflowing-with-life cousins will bring their own special brand of joy-infused energy to the table. And we'll party once again!

Head Over to Bookwi.se

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Sat, 05 May 2012 13:12:00 +0000

if you view life through a Christian perspective

AND

you love books

AND

your Kindle is one of your best friends

... check out Bookwi.se for the latest FREE books!

Enjoy ~

Linda

- photo by iamalbert -

3 Moves You Must Make To Become Whole

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Fri, 04 May 2012 17:10:00 +0000

I'm on the 2nd read-through of Rhett Smith's book, THE ANXIOUS CHRISTIAN. And I'm thinking that it'll go down as one of the most important books I'll read and recommend this year. As I move through this volume with my Wednesday evening anxiety group, these courageous ladies are sharing more-than-profound insights that are making even my own seasoned head spin, and my heart burst with a deep gratitude for what the Holy Spirit does in lives who are fully committed to God and are willing to do the hard work of change.

After a decade of pastoral counseling, I believe that there are three pivotal moves we need to make in order to find the healing and freedom that we yearn for:

1. Look Back & Turn Over Every Stone

2. Take Responsibility For My Responses & Choices

3. Forgive & Release Others

Rhett's words are gamechangers, aimed at questions that swirl way in the back of our troubled hearts, where some very defensive, self-protective postures keep us tragically immobilized in the quicksand of going nowhere fast. Why should I look back? Why do I need to stop blaming others, and bravely take on the mantle of responsibility that I've avoided like the plague? And why is forgiveness is the only way to unshackle myself from the past?

He writes,
'... if we fear looking back at the past, or downplay how the past has shaped us, we may never really learn who we are and how we have been wired ... Once we begin to see the patterns and how those interactions shaped who we are today, it provides a powerful opportunity for us to begin to understand ourselves better. In that awareness we are then freed to begin to make the changes we want in life. Without awareness and knowledge of who we are and how we were shaped in our family of origin, there is little motivation and opportunity to change the ways we have always operated.

Looking back provides us with the opportunity to review the past because the past is important. The past has shaped who we are presently, has a profound influence on how we react in times of fear or pain, and will continue to shape who we will be in the future ... As we look back at our families of origin and how they shaped us, we practice the biblical concept of remembering, and in doing so we can participate in the reshaping of who God has created us to be ... By participating in the process of remembering we are given the task to take responsibility for our lives.

Too many people look back at the past and fall prey to becoming a passive victim who shirks responsibility and in the process forfeits their present and future with God. It's important to understand how you became who you are today, but equally important to ask yourself who you want to be ...

Finally, this process also allows us the opportunity to exercise grace to ourselves and to others. As we muster up the courage to face our past, we may be surprised to realize that we weren't the only ones having a difficult time in life and struggling to make it day to day. As we review the past and take responsibility for our lives, we may begin to slowly realize that often our parents were doing the best they could. Maybe what you got from them was all they knew how to give. This is not to excuse areas in your life where parents should have been more present, more encouraging, less critical, etc. But maybe that knowledge may free you up enough to let go and live in freedom from the bondage of the past.'

Savor more ...

The question just begs to be asked as this post comes to a close. What are you going to do with what you've read today?

Linda

'God's Hope Instilled Back In Me'

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Tue, 01 May 2012 14:12:00 +0000

Confidentiality is one of the cornerstones of the counseling relationship. And what happens in the counseling office, stays in the counseling office.

But this client, like others before her, wants to share her story, which has been gently edited and is offered to you with her permission and blessing. She gives you a glimpse into the weekly dynamics that led her to hope. Healing. A renewed marriage. And a passionate vision for an emerging new ministry.

I still believe in miracles ~
Linda

Linda has been my counselor for one year and recently, it was decided to bring our counseling relationship to a close - that is a GOOD thing... actually a GREAT thing. I will be checkin' in from time to time for minor 'tune ups' but the consistent weekly sessions have ceased.

This may sound rather nonchalant but you must understand a year ago when I walked into Linda's office, my life was anything but nonchalant and every moment of it, agony. My marriage was a wreck, my husband and I live in two different states, he was also in counseling in TX while I was here.

I was trying with God and her help to put the pieces together. There were many, many issues to iron out, resolve and more than once I thought everything hopeless and no longer wanting to go forward.

I just didn't have the energy any longer to care.

BUT God is the God of hope and miracles so I proceeded to hang on ... and go see Linda every week. She guides at just the appropriate times in the conversation, steering ever so gently that the client comes to their own conclusions. She is a gentle woman. The emotional, mental, tangled mess is dissected ever so calmly and through consistent weeks of counseling, understanding came to the surface.

There was God's hope instilled back in me.

I'd lost my way, lost insight, lost that good stuff. Linda helped bring my painful issues to the forefront, helped me unravel each one and an injection of hope was brought back to my life.

Thank you Linda! I will be forever grateful for your guiding help, your input, your counsel, during those darkest days. And thank you for always starting our sessions together with prayer and a devotion as both were reminders of what our hour each week together would be about.

God and His amazing grace.

Oh How the Years Go By ...

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 16:03:00 +0000

If you've ever had a little person in your life, or you were a little person oh-so-long ago, you know these videos poignantly spell out what is true about our lives.

There is an amazing swiftness to the passage of our days. May we savor the joys of each season. And make it our goal to please Him by how we live along the way {2 Corinthians 5:9}.

Linda

Special thanks to Rachel Held Evans for sharing the first video ...

The Reality of Destructive Relationships

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 13:48:00 +0000

When it comes to confidently addressing relationships that are controlling, disrespectful, or toxic, no one responds with more biblical wisdom and perceptive insight than Leslie Vernick. Long time blog readers and counseling clients are no strangers to the impact of her work.

Take a look at this, this, and this.

So if something seems strangely off-kilter with someone in your life, what patterns should you be aware of?

And what happens when you don't take recognize and address these unhealthy ways of relating?

Toxic relationships can be found in a myriad of places. In a marriage. Between parents and adult children. Or between siblings. With friends. In the workplace or within a partnership of some kind. And yes, sadly, in the context of unbiblical church leadership.

The good news is that you are not alone. And you don't need to be stuck or paralyzed with fear. You do have the power to respond in ways that can bring needed change.

Take heart today. You can take action.

'So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand' {Isaiah 41:10}.

Linda

Choose the Ladder

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 20:08:00 +0000

I've always loved playing Chutes & Ladders! As a little girl, blossoming young mama, or hanging-in-there grandma, my competitive edge has emerged more than once. I've really gotten into zipping up those big tall ladders, flying right past my opponents, and getting nearer to my goal of stepping onto that final golden square marked '100.'

But along the way, my heart has dropped like a stone. More than once. My attitude has taken a sudden, negative lurch for the worse as I've encountered a bad spin or two, landed on a chute or three, and slid right on down a few rows ... or crash-landed back on square one right where I started from.

Life's like that. We keep on moving ahead, one spin at a time. Sometimes we get the big numbers and careen forward at breakneck speed, a big ol' confident smile on our faces, our hair flying in the wind.

And then, often out of nowhere, things change drastically. We begin to crawl forward oh-so-slowly, if at all.

Or take a harrowing collision course way back down the hill, hoping against hope we don't completely crash and burn as things slide completely out of control.

Truth be told, you and I may have reached a pinnacle or two along the way. And who hasn't hit bottom more than once? But whether we're climbing high with our heads in the clouds or sloshing around the dregs at the bottom, what matters is the perspective that we embrace.

Writer Sarah Young reflects, "If you encounter a problem with no immediate solution, your response to that situation will take you either up or down. You can lash out at the difficulty, resenting it and feeling sorry for yourself. This will take you down into a pit of self-pity.

Alternatively, the problem can be a ladder, enabling you to climb up and see your life from {God's} perspective. Viewed from above, the obstacle that frustrated you is only a light and momentary trouble ..."

I don't know about you, but often it's just plain easier to throw up our hands, sit back, let life happen, and go nowhere. Or head backwards, slowly but surely. Hauling ourselves up the ladder takes focused energy and ongoing effort that we can't drum up without the gracious help from our Heavenly Father. Yet, if we want to claim His rich, wise, eternity-in-view perspective, we have no other choice but to humble ourselves, get on our knees, and ask Him to lead the way.

I want to have my faith stretched. I want to continue to climb on up there and see life from His vantage point. I'm thankful 'cause He helps me when I ask Him to step on board and take my hand. And I so love His companionship along the way ...
Linda

Get Sarah Young's app here!

- photo by Ben Husmann -

The Answer Wasn't 'Yes'

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 19:30:00 +0000

In the middle of a perfectly sweet weekend, there was this disappointment that made its way into my life. In the light of eternity, it was absolutely a nothing. But in the here and now, it was a big thing for me. There was the dream that something important just might unfold. And I was so ready for it to happen.

But God said 'no.'

Or maybe it was 'wait.' I'm not quite sure.

Bottom line? God's answer was not the 'yes' I was hoping for. I shed a few tears and whined {just a bit} as I sifted through the morning's events with my oh-so-long-suffering husband.

And then Francesca Battistelli shared truth with me last night. Through a song. I was reminded again that all things work together for good for those that love God {Romans 8:28}. And that His ways are so much higher and deeper than anything I can get my hands around {Isaiah 55:8}.

That's because He's God. And I'm not.

Life happens. And when we're frustrated, disappointed, or hurt, we always have the power to choose how we will respond. We can ask Him for a clearer perspective. Or recall the countless times when He has been faithful, grace-filled, and merciful. We can settle ourselves down and be still and know that He is God {Psalm 46:10}. And that He is wise enough and strong enough to redeem whatever seems to be hopeless {Joel 2:25-26}. To use those things to expand our trust in Him and draw us oh-so-closer to His loving heart.

Or ...

We can sit in the corner and moan and groan and pout. We can endlessly wring our hands and allow 'if only,' 'why me,' and other useless mantras to play over and over in our heads.

'This is the stuff that drives me crazy
This is the stuff that's getting to me lately
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I'm blessed
This is the stuff that gets under my skin
But I gotta trust You know exactly what You're doing
It might not be what I would choose
But this is the stuff You use

So break me of impatience
Conquer my frustrations
I've got a new appreciation
It's not the end of the world'

Thankfully, my self-absorbed pity party was short lived. I had to give it all over to Him. Because in the end, I really do want Him more than I want that specific answer to prayer.

Learning patience, oh-so-slowly ~
Linda

Client Reading Carousel

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 17:05:00 +0000

Counseling is not just about showing up at an office, sitting in a comfy chair, and pouring out your heart once a week. The investment of energy, time, and finances that define those sessions truly multiplies when the client chooses to utilize the other six days in taking additional steps toward healing.

Journaling, reading, letter writing, devotional times, changes in lifestyle and diet, watching recommended DVDs, delving into this blog, and following up on referrals to support groups and medical professionals all work together to multiply the strength of those weekly conversations. Taking full advantage of all the resources offered allows the woman who's committed to serious life change to move ahead toward her goals at a more rapid rate.

Here's a sample of what some of my clients are currently using on their journey toward healing ...

Click on the arrows to spin the carousel, click on each book to read more!

Enjoy ...

Linda

What's Your Marriage Look Like?

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:22:00 +0000

Sheila & Michael's sweet surprise made my day last month ... and I'm delighted about guest blogging over on their site today.

With 8 random observations and 2 reflective questions, I think there's something that just might grab your attention! If you're married, I hope you're inspired to reach for the next rung as you continue climbing the ladder of this oh-so-beautiful, yet incredibly challenging lifetime commitment.

And if you're single, I hope that there'll be a few nuggets of truth in there that will apply to the relationships that are dear to you. And that if/when a man comes into your life, you'll be inspired never to settle.
Linda

"How come you never write about Dad?" a daughter asked as we chatted on the phone recently. "You've written about everybody else in the family ..." {continue reading}

The Hammock

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 14:35:00 +0000

"Maybe it's time to put up the hammock," he mused as we finished off a quiet lunch on the back porch recently. The sun was shining softly, a few gentle winds blew by, and the birds were having a field day at the feeders. And I know that our much-loved hammock's his favorite place to land after an afternoon of yard work or a fast-paced two mile walk.

That's a sure sign of spring around here. The man has undraped the netting that protected the holly and rhododendron from becoming some lonely deer's main course during the winter months. He's spruced up the wood pile and discarded all the sticks and debris that collected on the lawn during the windy days. The snow blower's now under wraps, and the lawn tractor's ready to roll.

And I've even done a bit of gardening.

The flip flops have emerged from hiding ... and the windows are open wide ... and and we've visited DQ more than once ... and I have fewer excuses why I'm not out walking each day ... and a few plants have made their way outdoors ... and we're eating supper and playing Scrabble outside on our beloved porch.

And it looks like we're not the only ones welcoming spring with open arms. You KNOW that it's long past time to climb out of the rut that often comes with winter. So I invite you to check out these 15 Ways to Have the Best Spring Yet!

I'm resonating with:

#6 Get out and go local

#9 Walk in the woods

#10 Plan a surprise picnic

#14 Throw a potluck brunch

And, naturally, #16. 'Cause in the end, it's all about the hammock.

Linda

Caring About Special Needs

noreply@blogger.com (1 of the Creekside Team) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:10:00 +0000

A man with autism has spoken with us, and a mom with an autistic son has shared her heart.

How do we respond?

Thomas Christianson is a youth pastor and an adjunct professor. He's also dad to his daughter, Elle, who happens to be autistic. In his post Why Christians Need To Care About Autism, he puts out 3 points we need to understand about those who live with special needs:

1. Isolation leads to depression.

"Because those with special needs frequently struggle with communication or the ability to interact socially, they can feel isolated. and this isolation can lead to depression."

2. Kids and teens are most vulnerable.

"Special needs adults frequently have the ability to lead lives of varying independence thanks to coping mechanisms they are able to put in place. They generally know their limits, and put together a routine that allows them to process what life sends their way.

Kids and teens don’t have the life experience to manage what’s coming at them in the same capacity adults do. Special needs kids also frequently have trouble with communication, which compounds any issues they may have."

3. Refuse to be condescending.

"Not everything a specials needs person does should be commended, just as we don’t commend everything done by a person without special needs."

Head on over to Relevant Magazine to finish the post.

The Apostle Paul challenges, "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ {Galatians 6:2}.

What responsibility does the church have for those with special needs?

Where do you fit into this picture?

Keeping this on the table ~

Linda