The song What Love Really Means by JJ Heller was one I deeply related to growing up. It was always on repeat, and when I finally picked up a guitar, I learned to play it—not well, mind you, but just enough to stumble through. Do you resonate with the little boy sitting in the corner, feeling…
In a home where fundamentalist beliefs shape every aspect of your life, marriage is seen as sacred and unbreakable. Divorce wasn’t just frowned upon; it was treated as an unforgivable sin, branding anyone who chose it with a mark of shame. It wasn’t just a personal failure—it was a community-wide scandal. Whispers followed the…
When individuals share their personal experiences, especially those marked by trauma, they often encounter responses that subtly—or sometimes overtly—attempt to reshape or soften their narratives. About a month ago, I wrote about reclaiming my voice after realizing I endured years of Munchausen by Proxy abuse—a form of mistreatment where a caregiver fabricates or induces…
Imagine a caregiver who, instead of nurturing their child back to health, deliberately makes them sick. This is the horrifying reality of Munchausen by Proxy, a severe form of abuse where a caregiver, often a parent, exaggerates, fabricates, or even induces symptoms in someone under their care—usually their child. The goal isn’t financial gain;…
As I observe Generation Z forging their path in the professional world, I’m captivated by their distinct journey, unlike that of Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, or even Millennials. They’re navigating unique challenges, such as believing that work should always align with their passions and provide constant fulfillment. But what happens when reality doesn’t quite…
As someone who profoundly cherishes their faith, prayer has always been a guiding light in my life. It’s been my sanctuary during tumultuous times and my compass through moments of doubt. However, grappling with significant health struggles—battling cancer and now preparing for my third surgery due to complications—has prompted a profound reevaluation of what…
Writing blogs—especially those that touch on political and theological themes—has never been about stirring up conflict, even if it’s sometimes received that way. For me, writing is an invitation to slow down, to ask harder questions, and to examine not only what we believe, but why. I include myself in that work. I’m continually…
As a suburban mother and voter, I’ve watched Donald Trump’s legal battles unfold with a mix of concern and reflection. Since the 2016 election, these battles have significantly shaped our political landscape, igniting debates about legal interpretations, political motivations, and public opinion. Recently, headlines about Trump being found guilty on 34 counts have brought…
When I used to think about racism, I pictured obvious acts — someone making a cruel comment or doing something openly hateful. Those moments were easy to see and call out for what they were. But over time, I’ve realized it’s not just about individual words or actions. Racism is woven into the fabric…