Author Archives: Jim Gleason

So much of our conversations are light and surface level. We discuss activities and plans, but not the deeper stirring of the heart. Sometimes, in the right environment, we will share our struggles. We will also freely discuss our victories and joyous celebrations. We may discuss our opinions on political, social, or athletic issues. However,Continue reading “Tell the Story of Mercy”

I don’t know about you, but I have observed many conversations that I just didn’t understand what was said. Either they were talking about a subject about which I knew little or were using words that I didn’t know. One such occurrence happened when we were visiting my wife’s family. They are farmers and theyContinue reading “Understanding”

As the stress builds around us, our words become more reaction than proaction. In these circumstances we may lash out as a defense mechanism. In order to protect ourselves, we criticize others. We are not as interested in the truth as much as defending ourselves. In the process we hurt others and separate ourselves fromContinue reading “Words Under Pressure”

Sometimes I see life as a roller coaster ride. We certainly experience the lows of troubles and suffering. But we also have times of exhilaration. The lows seem to last forever, but really are relatively short-term. Keeping our focus on the struggle just seems to bind us to them. Looking forward to the joy beyondContinue reading “Roller Coaster Life”

It is a natural response to want to return a kindness given to us. If we are invited to dinner at someone’s home, we generally want to host that person in our home. If someone gives us a gift, we search for a way to give them a gift in return. Often as I enterContinue reading “Returning the Favor”