Making a Toolbox for Anxiety
by Megan O’Connell with Terra A. Mattson, MA LPC, LMFT Worry has been a constant companion of mine for as long as I can remember. And as much as I wished it away, it didn’t budge. So when my fourth grade teacher asked us to write a folktale about a character based on...
read moreRelevant Magazine: “After a Leader Falls, What Next?”
The aftershocks of Jerry Falwell Jr.’s resignation keep coming. As new details come to light, Falwell’s actions cast a shadow over Liberty University’s reputation. The university’s board and faculty, already navigating education amid a global pandemic, must now...
read moreOp-Ed at Religion News Service: “To Prevent the Next Christian Scandal, Shrink the Integrity Gap”
In light of many recent news headlines, Jeff and Terra were invited to speak to on-going integrity issues in the church.Read more as Religious News Service published an op-ed piece including insights from Jeff and Terra Mattson's new book,...
read more“I Want More of My Dad”
I’m at the age where attending funerals is becoming more commonplace. And truly, there’s nothing like an end of life celebration to bring everything into perspective.
Awhile back I attended a funeral for a dear friend’s husband. There was hardly a dry eye in the place as one of her sons shared story after story about what his dad had meant to him. While choking back tears, he invited us all to dig deeper as he said, “I think everyone in here could say, ‘I want more of my dad.’”
read moreWalking With the Lonely or Elderly
One of the best ways to cope with anxiety and uncertainty is to lean into them.
During this novel Coronavirus pandemic, people are finding a sense of calm and normalcy by serving others and seizing opportunities to make the best of a challenging situation. Hebrews 13:16 says, “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God” (ESV Bible). Some are enjoying the gift of having fewer activities, a break from work, or more free time in the schedule. Others are blessed with multiple people living under one roof, providing ample opportunity for quality family time spent together (and, yes, I acknowledge that this may not always feel like a blessing).
read moreResponding Well in Overwhelming Circumstances
We have the privilege of knowing and walking with many leaders in churches, non-profits, and businesses. Regardless of where we lead, the pressure rises in times of great uncertainty for everyone. Considering the recent pandemic, we asked a seasoned women’s pastor and leadership coach, Rhonda Began, to share her process of leaning in and navigating these uncharted waters. We think there is something here for any leader. – Jeff & Terra
read moreSaving Your Best For Those You Love The Most
It is common to give a full day's effort at work, come home, and feel like there are only fumes left to give to the important people in our lives. We feel badly and wish we had more, but someone has to make sure food is on the table, lights stay on, and the kids...
read moreAnxiety and the Holidays
When you think about the holidays, what is your first reaction? Take a second and take notice. Where do your thoughts go? What happens to your body? Do you feel excited? Happy? Overwhelmed? Sad? Anxious? Perhaps you feel all of these emotions? If so, you are normal!
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