Growing Bolder Community

This is the first in a series of ramblings about God and faith. It is not meant to offend anyone nor start arguments that descend into bitter name calling. Think of it as an intellectual exercise meant for those who enjoy such things. I am willing to publish any and all comments provided they do not become strident. So, with those thoughts in mind, let me start the journey. Come along if...

I recently published the famous letter and response – Yes, Virginia – There Is A Santa Claus (see Must reading for the Christmas season). As I read the words and pondered them, I realized the response to Virginia’s letter would read the same if she asked about God. So here is my revised letter, with only one or two very minor tweaks. How interesting. DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old....

I recently embarked on a 14 day cruise through the western Mediterranean with my husband, my son and his fiancé, and dear friends. I experienced the mind suspension that so often accompanies vacations. I spent focused time with seven people I adore; we were immersed in luxury; and our ports of call were the sites of my studies as a Humanities major in college. Our excursions were rigorous-...

OUR OWN VALLEY OF ELAH By Aaron Welch, LMHC, NCC, CSOTS Recently, I was pondering the characteristics that make up a champion. To that end I sought out the story of David and Goliath, found in I Samuel 17. Now, personally, I have heard about and read this story throughout my entire life. It’s probably one of the first Bible stories I...

(This can also be found on www.nesschesters.wordpress.com - you can click "follow" if you wish to follow future blogs. The theme of my blogs are living life to the fullest) >>>>>>> It has now been officially almost a year and a half since my accident. A journey of a lifetime, and I feel so very blessed to have experienced it. There were moments where I will be marked forever. However, I...

What if every day was the best day of your life?? It can be. Every day can be the best day of your life if you choose it to be. I have not written in a while mainly because over the past two months I have struggled, emotionally, and a little physically with what is happening in my life. During these times, I relied on God to guide me and help me with my anxiety. There were days when I...

And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me (Matthew 18:5) How does this statement resonate in your mind? What thoughts does it trigger? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ir1tiUw_h8 (click link) What I have learned, is that our Children’s ministries in our churches are really foundations of faith. What I didn’t realize is that a child forms their opinion on faith, God,...

Sleeping isn't that difficult. Every night I go to sleep and pray for strength and pray for rest. Throughout this whole process - I have felt the Lord God holding my hand and continuing to give me strength. When I hit the bottom of the pool - I felt safe. A strange irony, but I felt like things were going to be OK. At times when I was worried, I felt like there was constant reassurance...