Dallas Christian Family magazine May 2012

ANGIE SMITHA MOTHER’S MESSAGE OF HOPE

May 2012 COMPLIMENTARY

CelebratingÊ10ÊYearsÊofÊGoodÊNews

Prevent Power StrugglesWith Teens

SummerFitness Goals

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3May 2012

Dallas Christian Family® is published monthly by:

Trinity Publishing, LLC2701 Little Elm Parkway

Ste 100, PMB 136Little Elm, TX 75068

[email protected]

Cover Photo/Cover Article Photos: Women of FaithCover Article Family Photo:Lee Steffen

Reproduction of any part of Dallas Christian Family® without permission of the publisher is prohibited.

Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. Views expressed in Dallas Christian Family® do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Every effort has been made by Dallas Christian Family® staff to ensure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information nor the absence of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be or is assumed. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2012 Trinity Publishing.

Unless otherwise noted, scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society.

Distribution: Dallas Christian Family is free and available at targeted high-traffic locations throughout the Dallas area.

Dallas Christian Family® exists to strengthen

and grow the Christian community through relevant editorial, effective advertising and an active online offering.

Our

Mis

sionin association with

The Christian Family Publication, Inc.Celebrating 10 Years of Good News

Proud Member of:

is honored to be part of the 6th Annual Christian Writers Conference!

Saturday, July 21th, 20129:30 am - 3:30 pm

Do you have a book in you?Has God put a message on your heart?Have your life experiences taught you valuable lessons you want to pass on to others?

Don’t Miss this event... So much to gain:

Hosted by: Roaring Lambs, Karol Ladd and Donna Skell

Gleneagles Country Club5401 West Park Blvd.Plano, TX 75093

Early Bird Special $59Including luncheon and materials

After July 15th - $69Register Online

www.roaringlambsministries.orgor Mail Check to: Roaring Lambs

17110 Dallas Parkway, Suite 220 Dallas, Texas 75248 972-380-0123 or [email protected]

Contest Rules:1. Must be 18 or older to enter. 2. Must be present at the Christian Writers Conference to win3. Article needs to be approx. 500 words, on topic of your choice. 1st Place winner will be published in Dallas Christian Family magazine for 3 months. 2nd Place: 1 column in Dallas Christian Family magazine, 3rd Place: 1 web exclusive column published on DFWChristianFamily.com

Writers Contest: Win an Opportunit y to Write for

Dallas Christian Family MagazineTo enter: send up to 3 articles to

[email protected] by July 13, 2012

• Learn about the Art of Writing• The Powerful Proposal• Deciphering Contracts• Traditional or Independent Publishing?

• Creative Marketing and Social Networking• Writing Besides Books• The Uniqueness of Your Message• Motivating Yourself to the Finish Line

Dallas Christian Family4 www.DFWChristianFamily.com972-820-5000 | prestonwood.org | powerpoint.org

A Church to Call Home!Dr. Jack Graham, Pastor

SUMMER

CALENDARKIDZ/PRETEEN

• June 11–15 • Vacation Bible School• June 23–25 • Camp WOW (Grades 2-3)• June 25–29 • Camp WOW (Grades 4-6)• July 11–14 • Mission Trip (Grades 5-6)• July 30–AuG. 3 Creative Arts Camp (Plano Campus)• AnD MORe

For additional details, please contact the Children’s Ministry Office atPlano Campus972-820-5353, prestonwoodkidz.orgnorth Campus972-798-6732, prestonwood.org/northchildren Dallas Campus972-419-8232, prestonwood.org/dallaschildren

Register online for all ministry events.prestonwoodkidz.org

Plano CampusSaturdays 6:00 p.m.

Sundays 9:15 and 11:00 a.m.En Español 1:30 p.m.

6801 W. Park Blvd., Plano, TX 75093prestonwood.org

Dallas CampusSundays 11:00 a.m.

12123 Hillcrest Road Dallas, TX 75230

prestonwood.org/dallas

North CampusSundays 9:15 and 11:00 a.m.

1001 W. Prosper TrailProsper, TX 75078

prestonwood.org/north

Worship With Us this Weekend!

Ages 3 through Grade 6Register your kids today!

Registration required at prestonwood.org/VBS

Kidz Blitz in Concert!

Interactive Bible Time!

Fun for Everyone!

Petting ZooVintage Trains & Bounce Houses! (ages 3 through kindergarten)Inflatables & Crazy Recreation! (grades 1–6)

6 Family Matters TipsforBondingwiththeIn-Laws

7 Parent with Purpose PreventPowerStruggles

9 Special Feater NationalFosterCareMonth

11 Chick Chat TheArtofLife

12 Might Men CommitmenttoGod-Part4of4

14 Cover Story AngieSmith

17 Healthy Living 5SimpleStepstoAchievingAnyGoal

18 The Single Life 5LessonsILearnedOnABlindDate

19 Youth News BeCarefulIt’sContagious

20 Money Matters OverPayTaxes&ReceiveRefund

22 Workplace & Leadershio Pruning:ThePainThatPaysOff

23 Testimony Time AMother’sSecret

24 Media with A Message 26 Cool Stuff

Volume 3, Number 5Contents May 2012

Next IssueUltimate Fathers

ConferenceComing August 2012

Paul Cole, Jason McBride, Toby Rorie, John Tolson

And More...

Angie SmithA Mother’s Message of Hope

14

5April 2012

Special FeatureNational Foster Care Month

19

Chick ChatThe Art of Life

17

Mighty MenCommitment to God

6

6 Dallas Christian Family www.DFWChristianFamily.com

FamilyMa�ersTips for bonding with the in-laws

B u i l d i n g L i f e l o n g L e a r n e r s

Secondary math online co-op classes available for Summer 2012 and 2012-2013 School Year.

Visit http://www.mathusee.com/about-us/online-classes/

to register or for more information.

b u i l d i n g d r e a m sOur award-winning K–12 math program

is building dreams all over the world.

Learn more at www.MathUSee.com

As families blend together, the knowledge and experience of mother-in-laws will become a great resource to daughter-in-laws and helping the family stay on track. They can be trusted to offer encouragement to grandkids during extra-curricular activities, provide insight into their family history or cook special family recipes with kids while the parents are out for a much needed romantic dinner.

Daughter-in-laws can become a major support system for mother-in-laws by helping to organize family functions, schedule time for their spouse and kids to spend quality time with grandma as well as teach them how to use technology to keep in touch.Whether it’s spending time getting to know each other outside of your assigned titles, deciding together which family traditions are best for the children to participate in, or allowing each other the freedom to be who you are, Grandpar-ents.com has expert advice that help both parties develop a deeper bond. Below are a few quick-tips on how daughter and mother-in-laws can cultivate a great relationship with one another.

For Mothers-in-law

1. Respect your daughter-in-law’s parenting style. Much has changed since you were raising kids. Earn your daughter-in-law’s trust by playing by her rules when you’re with the kids.

2. Respect her relationship with her mom — and don’t try to compete.

3. Respect her relationship with your son — and don’t badmouth her to him.

4. Remember, good parenting is learned on the job — and she’s doing the best she can. Give her the benefit of the doubt, and never forget how sensitive you were as a young parent trying to do your best.

For Daughters-in-law

1. Respect your son’s relationship with his mother.

2. Remember that all grandparents — unless they are abusive or their behavior is in some way harmful to the kids — deserve to know their grandchildren, and vice-versa. If possible, let all the grandparents spend time alone with the kids. That is the only way they can establish lasting bonds.

3. Cut the grandparents some slack — within reason. They may buy the kids two scoops of ice cream instead of one, or ridiculous, overpriced toys — and then let them stay up an hour past bedtime. They don’t mean to disrespect you; this is just their way of showing their extravagant love for your children.

For Both Mothers-in-law and Daughters-in-law

1. Healthy boundaries are what keep us sane and foster friendly relations. Set boundaries for yourself, and respect your in-law’s boundaries. When you do stray into each other’s crosshairs, try to see the situation from her point of view.

2. Let go of your expectations about how things should be and work with the way things are. This means accepting the complete cast of characters who make up your whole crazy extended family, as well as other nonnegotiable circumstances.

3. Always think of the kids. Model the values you want the children to learn. Do you want to train them in sniping and disrespect, or trust and compassion?

4. Remember, the heart is a generous muscle, and there’s enough love to go around.

—Sherria Cotton

Grandparents.com is the ultimate resource and premier social media website for today’s grandparents. The website offers enriching activities, discussion groups, expert advice, ten monthly newsletters, and a Benefits Club with discounts on thousands of goods and services. In 2011, Grandparents.com added over 200 marketing partners to its Benefits Club and launched the Grandparents.com Bookstore, which is operated in association with Baker-Taylor, Inc., one of the world’s largest distributors of print and digital books. The Company’s new website will be launched on Grandparents Day, September 9, 2012.

7May 2012

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“You teach your kids to be good. We teach them to be good at Math.”

The teen years are challenging for parents as well as for teenagers. Teenagers want their independence and parents struggle with how much independence is appropriate. Our thinking as parents needs to shift from “not who’s going to win the battle but how can I help empower my teen so that they feel understood and accepted.” The teenage years are a challenging stage of development; trying to fit in with their peers, figuring out who they are, and wanting independence but knowing that this is limited.

How can parents prevent power struggles with their teenagers? What parenting style works best? Here are six tips that can help reduce power struggles, empower teens, and increase the peace within the home.

Parenting Tip 1:Validate Feelings- Parents can help their teens through this stage of life by vali-dating their feelings. Teenagers need to feel understood. They don’t always want to know how to fix a problem or what they should do next but just that it’s okay to feel the way they do.

Parenting Tip 2:Ask Questions- Parents can encourage their teen to solve their own problem or dilemma. How do parents do this? Parents need to ask their teen questions. For example: “I can see why you would be frustrated with the situation, how do you think you will handle it?” or “What are some ideas you have about talking to your boss or friend about the situation?” Allow them to think through their own frustrations. This can be empowering for your teen and sends the message, “You can handle this and we are here for you.” This is a great confidence booster and will help them later in life when you are not there to think for them.

Parenting Tip 3:Offer Encouragement- Parents can boost their teens self esteem by offering en-couragement when possible. What have you seen your teen do right around the house? Point out the positive things they are doing even if it’s limited. Also, encourage them to embrace their gifts and talents and find ways that they can use them. Teens will never get tired of hearing positive messages about themselves, especially from Mom and Dad.

Parenting Tip 4:Choices- It’s important that parents offer their teens choices when possible. Teens want to feel included in the situation and that their opinion matters.

Parenting Tip 5:Rules & Consequences- Parents need to have a general set of rules in the house-hold that all teens know and follow. Teens also must be aware of the conse-quences that happen when they break the rules. I always encourage parents to meet with their teen ahead of time to discuss possible consequences for breaking the household rules. This can prevent many future arguments.

Parenting Tip 6:Be Consistent- Parents need to stay committed to decisions they make and fol-low through with any consequences of the household.

The teenage years can be a challenging time for many parents. Follow these basic tips and keep God first in the family. There can be some great teachable moments during this period and you are the perfect teacher to assist them.

“All of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.” 1 Peter 3:6

—Dr. Nina

Dr. Nina Rios-Doria is a TV expert and host in the Dallas/ Fort Worth area and counsels at Christian Counseling Associates. In addition, she writes articles for local magazines and newspapers. For More information, please visit www.dr-nina.com, call: 817-657-6277 or email: [email protected]

6 Parenting Tips that Prevent Power Struggles

} Full and/or Part Time Available} Education & childcare based on Christian principles} A Beka Curriculum (a phonics-based program)} Where learning is fun} Serving children ages 2-6 years old in a secure & loving environment

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Jaquintay 05/1997 Jaquintay is a kid at heart. He looks at the world with innocence and joy. Jaquintay is a nice guy who will finish first in life. He is warm with a playful and easy temperament. Jaquintay plays well with younger children and enjoys being surrounded by family. He loves Legos and Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Jaquintay is working on building his self esteem and standing up for himself. He also loves listening to music, playing video games, and helping out in the kitchen. Jaquintay is thinking about being a pastry chef when he grows up. He enjoys school where he receives additional assistance for Math and Language Arts. Jaquintay needs a family who enjoys spending quality time with each other. He also needs a family who will encourage him to pursue his goals and help him build a sense of self worth. Jaquintay will do well in

a home with or without other children. Socially and emotionally, he does well with children who are a little younger than him. Jaquintay has a younger brother with whom he would love to stay in contact.

Anastasia, 08/1997 Anastasia is a believer in dreams, hope and “happy ever after”. She keeps her options open for good things and people to come her way in spite of disappointments. Three wishes Anastasia would like to come true in her life are; to have an easy going life, to be spoiled, and to have trusting friendships with as many people as possible. She really hopes to be adopted and have a loving family to care for her.

Anastasia is quiet at first, but becomes talkative when she warms up to you. She enjoys eating. Anastasia likes comfort food especially chicken as well as healthy fruit and juice. She can become discouraged and will experience some sad days. Anastasia benefits from structure, routines, and planning. Knowing what is going to happen and when helps to assure her and make her feel secure. Anastasia tries to avoid feeling overwhelmed or uneasy. She tries to keep things simple and uncomplicated. Anastasia’s simple pleasure

in life are spending one on one time with her caregivers, feeling loved and accepted, and drawing.

Anastasia has experienced a significant amount of discouragement and let downs but she strives to stay focused and positive. There are times when her emotions get the best of her. This is when Anastasia’s behaviors are that of a much younger youth. Anastasia requires a person to build a rapport with her so she can start to build trust. She is more receptive to authority figures with whom she knows and trust. Anastasia will test the waters. She is always looking for stability and assurance. Anastasia is progressing very well in expressing her feelings, taking responsibility for her actions and applying redirection methods. She is overcoming the fear of having her trust betrayed and this is leading to a more open, less guarded and obliging Anastasia. Anastasia would do well in a home where she has a unique position in the birth order or if she were the only child. She has a strong desire to live out the dream of not just being accepted but loved and favored. Anastasia desires to have a close and trusting relationship with her new family.

Jasmine 03/2001 Jasmine is an intelligent, outspoken and energetic little girl who likes school. She is doing well in school and stays current in her classes. Jasmine says Science and Reading are her favorite subjects. She is a good student, describes herself as very helpful and was recently chosen to participate in the Rachel’s Challenge program at her school. Jasmine’s hobbies include riding her bike, playing outdoors, swimming and playing computer games. She enjoys playing with children her age, but also gets along well with younger children. She is able to entertain herself and play independently. Jasmine is socially active and conducts herself well in social settings. She enjoys participating in family outings such as going to the movies and eating out. Jasmine has an interest in dance class, tennis and soccer and would like an opportunity to pursue these activities to determine which she likes best. She also enjoys attending the Boys and Girls Club.

Jasmine is making great progress in overcoming her chaotic past. She becomes more and more confident every day. This confidence shows in her interaction with others and her positive outlook. Jasmine still requires lots of reassurance, love and understanding. She likes for her caregivers to be close by to provide that added feeling of security. Jasmine is on a journey to healing and knows that she will have up days and down days. Jasmine would benefit from being placed with a couple or single parent who is able to provide the attention and nurturing she needs to continue the development of her social, emotional and educational needs. Jasmine has a sister, Ashley. She would like to keep in contact with her sister if they are not adopted together. It could be great if there is a family whose dynamics would support successfully parenting both girls.

Ashley 12/1996 Ashley enjoys playing the clarinet in the band. She likes participating in the activities in her physical education class. Ashley takes great pleasure in being happy. She enjoys special moments that make her laugh and giggle. Ashley does not take joy for granted. She likes to do the simple things in life like taking walks. Ashley loves the sunshine and being outside in nature. She is a member of the Boys and Girls Club where she takes Kong Fu.

Ashley often is concerned about how things will turn out. She will allow concerns to linger in her mind. Ashley can become frustrated with wanting everything to be ok and not knowing. She is learning to funnel those emotions. Ashley will do well with extracurricular activities to channel her energy and creativity. She requires consistency and structure. Ashley will benefit from the guidance of a strong female role model who shares wisdom and insight. She has a lovely smile and a beautiful head full of hair although Ashley requires reminders to help maintain her beauty. The ideal family for Ashley is a family who has extensive experience with special needs. A strong female role model is beneficial to Ashley. She would not mind having other siblings. Ashley’s family will be patient resourceful advocates.

Ashley has a sister, Jasmine. She would like to keep in contact with her sister if they are not adopted together. It could be great if there is a family whose dynamics would support successfully parenting both girls.

Gary and Derrick are two handsome brothers who love attention, like to dress up for photos and smile for the camera. They love each other very much and both are very protective of one another. Gary and Derrick are typical siblings and they have their disagreements at times, but they do get along well. Both are competitive, which shows when they are playing sports and video games together.

Gary has lots of confidence in his abilities. Gary is not only athletic, but he also likes to express himself in his drawings and doing art work at school and at home. Derrick is a very energetic and active child. He applies himself completely when playing his favorite sports or video games.

Gary does very well in school and turns in his homework with friendly reminders. Gary enjoys drawing and doing art work at school and at home. He can be impatient with other children at times or be uncooperative with authority figures. But Gary responds easily to redirection, will be remorseful and return to being a sweet little boy with you. Gary is in very good health, very athletic, and a very charming boy.

Derrick is very spontaneous and likes to be involved in many activities. He enjoys playing outdoors and likes any kind of sports. When Derrick is inside, he absolutely loves playing video games and he is ready to take on all challengers. Derrick is known to enjoy eating sweets and is usually reminded of eating nutritional fruits and vegetables. Derrick receives specialized services in school on a need-be basis and he is academically on his grade level. Occasionally, Derrick will challenge his teachers and authority figures. But he is making great progress in learning and applying appropriate ways to respond to frustrating situations. Derrick also has a hard time asking others to borrow their things. He does respond well to redirection and to prompts to help him stay focused to do what is being asked of him. Derrick has a small appetite which is monitored with medication to encourage hunger. Overall, Derrick is in very good health.

For Information call: 1-800-233-3405Adoption through foster care is often free or has a very minimal expense involved.

Dallas Christian Family Presents: Looking for a Forever Family . . .

9May 2012

• Leader in providing quality, caring services since 1879

• Commitment to building personal relationships

• Professional staff offer strong, stable support system

• Community of families to mentor and encourage one another

Buckner Foster Care is part of Buckner Children and Family Services, a diverse global ministry dedicated to the restoration and healing of children and families.

Contactus today!

214.321.4530www.beafamily.org

dallas-christian-ad-anglo-vert:Layout 4 5/17/11 3:06 PM Page 1

www.BiblesForBabes.comDonate Online!

Introducing The Father To The Fatherless TM

I’d like to sponsor Bibles for Foster Kids!1 Bible/month $20.002 Bible/month $40.003 Bible/month $60.00Other/General Funds $______

Mail To:2765 E. Eldorado PkwySte. 215, PMB 136Little Elm, TX 75068*make checks payable to McBride Ministries

Special Feature

May is National Foster Car Month. It’s a time set apart to create awareness, understanding, and advocacy for children in the foster care system.

James tells us to care for the orphan (James 1:27). Whether it be through adoption, fostering, donations, or volunteering there are a number of ways that Christians can care for orphans.

There are over 3,000 foster children in the Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex alone, your help is needed! By no fault of their own, these children have been placed in foster care due to neglect, abuse, and abandonment. There are a number of ways to participate in “Introducing the fatherless to the Father.”

• Oftentimes parents are offered the opportunity to become educated in areas they are struggling with and have an opportunity to get their children back. During this time, while temporarily in foster care, children need loving, caring, families to nurture and guide them. This is an amazing time for ministry and a call on special families, willing to step up and take on a child knowing that the child will most likely have to leave.

• A second option is becoming a foster parent for children that are not returning to their families, or the outcome is unknown. Their parents may have already lost their legal rights and possibly the state is looking for an adoption placement. Again, this is a wonderful time to minister to God’s special children.

• Finally, there’s adoption. Most people, when considering adoption,

think of adopting from outside the U.S. However, there are over 100,000 children in America that are awaiting adoption through foster care. The cost is usually covered by the state, unlike the tens of thousands one must spend for international adoption.

• If you’re considering an option to serve orphans outside the home, pray about becoming a mentor. Mentors usually meet with foster children on a weekly basis and are able to help them prepare for the world that awaits.

• Foster children are always in need of clothing, shoes, Bibles, school supplies, entertainment, and more. Contact an adoption or foster care agency or children’s home and learn about the needs of their children. Donate items individually or get your company or Sunday school class involved!

The Lord has called us to be his hands and feet on earth and care for the or-phaned children He so dearly loves. Allow this month of awareness to lead you to action. Contact a Christian foster/adopt agency to learn more, join educational classes, and get involved!

—Jennifer McBride

Jennifer and her husband Jason have fostered children in the past and look forward to adoption in the future. They’ve also established a ministry through which richly illustrated children’s Bibles are donated to kids in foster care. Join them in raising funds and/or Bibles! Contact them to lead a Bible drive at your church, class, or of-fice. www.BiblesForBabes.com

National Foster Care Month Foster, Adopt, Mentor, Volunteer!


HEROES WANTED

Seeking heroic families to provide temporary fostercare for children in need. If you have room in

your heart and your home to care for a foster child, please call Methodist Children’s Home at

(972) 480-8772 or email us at

[email protected]

Offering hope to children, youth, and families through a nurturing, Christian community.

www.MethodistChildrensHome.org

June 15-17, 2012Marriage Retreat Weekend

Marriage Encounter is an opportunity for married couples to focus on the most important area of their lives

- their marriage The goal of Marriage Encounter:

make strong families by building strong marriages

A weekend away from distractionsImproved communication

Growth as a couple and as individualsA revitalized and renewed relationship

A chance to make a good marriage great

“Go to the heart of the family – the couple. They are the key to the love

revolution the world needs” – Gabriel Calvo, founder of Marriage Encounter

For more information and reservations, please visit:

www.ntexasme.orgor call 817-451-6005

Psychological, Neuropsychological, and Cross-Battery evaluations available for:• Cognitive strengths/weaknesses • School/College Accommodations• ADHD• Autism/PDD• Asperger's• Learning Disorders (e.g., Dyslexia)• Dementia or Memory Problems • Bipolar Disorder• Depression and Anxiety• Pre-surgery Evaluations

Specializing in Diagnosis & Treatment Planning

for ages 4 years through geriatric

751 Hebron Pkwy, Suite 320 Lewisville, Texas 75057 469-549-4200 Phone

[email protected]

Satellite OfficeS in DallaS

The P.L.A.C.E. to Be!

As a public school option, Leader-ship Prep is a charter school which provides a free-tuition college prep education. We will offer grades K-5 for the 2012-2013 school year and serve students that live within the following ISDs: Frisco, Little Elm,

Denton, Prosper, McKinney, Allen, Plano and Lewisville.

For more information, visit our website:

www.lpsfrisco.com 8500 Teel Parkway

Frisco, TX 75034972-294-6921

Send your resume to: [email protected]

Dallas Christian Family

Is Looking For Dynamic

Outside SalesRepresentatives

Denton Calvary Academy

Website: www.dentoncalvary.orgPhone: (940)320-1944

1910 E. University • Denton, TX 76209

• A University-Model School is a blend of the most positive aspects from traditional public and private schools as well as home schools, to give elementary through high school (K-12) a highly successful,

college-preparatory education, set in a Christian environment.

The vision of Denton Calvary Academy is to see our students, today and tomorrow, glorify the Lord Jesus

Christ by improving the lives of others through a life-long love of learning, discovery, and service.

• Academics • Service • Fine Arts • Leadership • Athletics • Character

• Grades K-12 • Sports (TAPPS)

• Accredited through AdvancED (SACS)

Information Meeting dates: Tuesdays @ 7:00pm March 6 • April 3 • May 1 • June 5

Reservations Not Required

11May 2012

My first art teacher’s advice for success was to focus on just one subject; but today I’m proud to be equally expert in painting oil portraits, still life, and landscapes. Somewhere along the way, I also became an expert in another field – survival.

Branded with the “S” word, I live in two worlds simultaneously – my dream world of oil painting, and the hard core reality of three auto-immune diseases. I’ve absorbed more toxic chemicals than the state of Nevada, and have more zippers than a bomber jacket. Striving to maintain my survivor title, I get points just for showing up. But I do have interesting statistics:

• Graves / Hashimoto’s disease • 13 years of chemotherapy (ovarian cancer) • 12 different chemo drugs • 18 surgeries in these last twelve years• 24 times on the operating table in my life • 28 years since my breast cancer diagnosis (Whew!)

I’m also living my fairy tale, and have enjoyed some remarkable achievements in my professional career during this time. Because I manage to be happy and healthy, people call for advice on how to handle their life crises. The rules in life are the same for all of us whether your challenge is divorce, disease, or das-tardly bosses. I see the similarities between life and art, because both require the same discipline, hard work, and focus.

Beginning on the left, each flower represents one of the essential elements which I call the “Fran Plan”; every moment of every day involves some facet of these elements.

1. SPIRIT: Faith in your God (he didn’t cause your crisis). You must also have faith in yourself – you’re stronger than you think. Love yourself, and love others, rejecting anger. We have so many reasons to be angry, but how can you stay focused on saving or improving your life when your energy and emotions are consumed with anger?

2. DISCIPLINE: This is where the rubber meets the road, and most people fail. Make conscious decisions and follow through. Be diligent about exercise, even if it’s simple yoga. Do your homework on nutrition; your “bloomin’ onion” days are over! No excuses and no cop-outs. Staying alive is a full-time job.

3. LAUGHTER: Laughter is oxygen, which is energy for mental, physical, and emotional strength. Seek only the joyful and uplifting. Laughter conquers fear and depression, which are crippling. (Caution: Laughter is contagious; joy can be habit-forming.)

4. PURPOSE: A reason to get out of bed – mental entertainment which brings you joy; an activity from the past or dream for the future. Dare to dream! You may look back years from now, chastising yourself for wasted time. When you focus outward, life is easier; involve your brain in something you love – you’ll notice that “quality of life” thing happening.

5. FOCUS: Don’t get distracted by pain, complications, or question marks; set goals and take charge. Don’t cower in fear; look your challenge in the face, declare war, and never take your eyes off the prize. Life doesn’t happen by accident. Every element is necessary for handling chal-lenges and represents positive, purposeful effort.

• But here’s the catch: No single factor does the job – it requires the whole bouquet. The lessons in life are the same for all of us, whatever your special circumstance.

• Consider your life as a work of art: You’re in charge. You’re holding the brush. Strive for attitude management, and clear-headed focus. We all started life with a blank canvas; decide what you want and are willing to work for.

• Take a risk: Decide to change your life from a question mark to an exclamation point! With iron-willed determination, choose your path.

Believe in the art of the possible. I sure am glad I didn’t quit years ago, when I received another diagnosis. You can do it.

—Fran Di Giacomo, PHD (Perpetually Hairless Dame)

Artist Fran Di Giacomo is author of “I’d Rather Do Chemo Than Clean Out the Garage: Choosing Laughter Over Tears”. Visit Fran at www.TheChemo-Lady.com.

THE ART OF LIFE:Surviving the Challenges


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Commitment to God – 4 of 4 Wow guys, we are on the home stretch! We have covered commitments to: yourself, your wife, and your family. Now let’s press on to our fourth and final commitment, which is to God. As followers of Christ we are committed to strive to become more like Christ each and every day.

“Whoever says he abides in Him ought to walk in the same way in which He walked.” 1 John 2:6

“You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.” John 13:13-17

I know you are thinking… “There is no way I can achieve this.” Guys, it is a responsibility to yourself, your wife, and your family to commit to work as hard as you can each day to become more like Christ. As we make the com-mitment to take these steps, then Christ himself will pour out His blessings and strengthen you. You will also see that, while making this commitment, you will change. Soon, because they will see Christ in you, your relationship with your wife and family will change and they will follow you in this pursuit to be more Christ-like.

Press-on, Men, continue with this most important commitment! Here are a

few items that you need to help you succeed:

1. Pray 2. Read your Bible 3. Find someone that will disciple you each week – one on one4. Get involved with other Christian men 5. Attend church 6. Make this commitment the top of your list each day

Men it will be hard, it will not always be fun, it will hurt sometimes, but I can tell you that in the end you will look back and give thanks that you made this decision to step up and commit! �

If you need encouragement or an accountability partner, don’t hesitate to contact me! Men all around the metroplex are seeking the same, let me con-nect you!

—Jason McBride

Jason is an ordained pastor, former member of both The Power Team & Team Im-pact Ministries &the founder of Ultimate Man Ministries. They meet for lunch the 2nd Thursday of each month at Prestonwood Country Club. Jason and his team also provide one-on-one discipleship to men. www.UltimateManMinistries.org or email [email protected] In August 2012 – join Jason McBride, Dr. John Tolson, Tony Rorie, and Paul Cole for the Ultimate Fathers Conference!

13May 2012

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She went on to share that, while heart- wrenching, the loss was a faith-building experience for her kids as well. “They were there when she took her last breath.” Angie explained how having a real per-son, a sibling nonetheless, in heaven pro-vides her children with a deeper mean-ing of salvation and eternal life.

Through the journey, it became increasingly difficult to update family and friends and tell-ing the story over and again was difficult. An-gie turned to blogging in an effort to remain

open and communicate. Later, from her blog, sprung her book, I Will Carry You: The Sacred Dance of Grief and Joy, titled after the song Angie and Todd co-wrote. The song was written in preparation for Audrey’s memorial service and is part of Selah’s album, You Deliver Me.

The passion and promise with which An-gie expresses her story is nothing short of life-impacting. God has used her story to reach thousands of people chal-lenged with loss of any kind. Through this tragedy has also come a newly discov-ered calling on Angie’s life, speaking!

God has equipped and prepared her for the challenge of not only sharing her story through writing, but as a speaker as well. Having only spoken a handful of times prior to becoming part of the Women of Faith team, she has embraced each moment and fully relied on God to deliver the message of hope He has for His children. Allowing her the privilege of speaking into the lives of thousands of women each year, Angie has risen to all the God has asked of her.

NEW & IMPROVED Women of FaithYou won’t want to miss Angie and the rest of the exciting line up at this year’s Women of Faith conference. They are making some pret-ty big changes and when I heard Angie speak at the One Day event earlier this year, it was simply awesome! The audience was captured and quickly became a favorite as they fell in love with her authenticity and beautiful heart.

Through their new One Day events, Women of Faith has managed to pack amazing speak-ers into just a single day, allowing for more flexibility and opportunity for attendance. But their annual two day event is something of an extravaganza of inspiration, Biblical teach-ing, challenge, and life-impacting worship.

Women of Faith is a touring, women’s con-ference that visits cities across the U.S. with amazing speakers, worship, and fellow-ship. This year they’ve added a great deal of exiting enhancements. The new Celebrate

What Matters 2012 tour will be in23 cities this fall, including Dallas in September!

The team at Women of Faith encour-ages, “We read your comments, we heard your requests and you had some great ideas! So this year, when you come to a Celebrate What Matters event, you’ll find:

»» A live worship band to accom-pany our Worship Team.

»» More Biblical teaching.

»» A new, more intimate, more interactive stage.

»» Fresh and inspiring dramatic and performing arts segments.

»» Amazing concerts from Amy Grant, CeCe Winans, Selah, and Mandisa, to name just a few.

»» New speakers will join the team, including Liz Curtis Higgs, Mark Lowry, Elisa Morgan, Pat Smith, Max Lucado, and many more!

As we like to say these days, even if you’ve been to Women of Faith before, you’ve never experi-enced it like this. Can’t wait to see you there!”

The Bible verse for this year’s event is, “Our soul waits for the Lord; He is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in Him, Because we have trusted in His holy name.” Psalm 33:20-21 NKJV. Cel-ebrating God’s faithfulness in good times and bad, join women this fall as they experience the testimony and witness of strong, Christian women that are willing to bring you into their

lives, share their struggles, and equip you with biblically sound advice and encouragement.

The event will take place on Septem-ber 21 and 22, 2012 and will be held at American Airlines Center. Learn more at www.WomenofFaith.com

WOMEN & FEARAngie and Todd will forever be changed and the hope-filled story of Audrey will impact lives for eternity. Today, the couple presses for-ward in their race to the finish and find God blessing and encouraging them each step of the way. They celebrate the blessings of God and…one more baby girl, born May of 2010!

Angie’s future as a speaker and writer is shin-ing bright. Along with her Women of Faith tour, television, and print exposure, Angie is sharing more of herself through writing. Her recent work titled, What Women Fear: Walking in Faith that Transforms, addresses her own per-sonal struggle with fear. Treated for anxiety as a child, she knows firsthand the challenges a Christian woman can face regarding worry and doubt. Whether it’s a fear of rejection, abandonment, death or divorce, Angie ad-dresses a wide-range of fear-based topics. Led by Biblical example, areas of fear, worry, distrust, and anxiety are exposed and a path to restora-tion is laid out. What Women Fear is available online and in bookstores.

You may learn more about Angie through her blog www.angiesmithonline.com. There you will also find her journey with Audrey is available from start to finish. Additionally, you’ll find her talking about home schooling, sew-ing, books, speaking events, and more!

—Jennifer McBride

Jennifer is the Editor of Dallas Christian Family mag-azine and co-owner of Trinity Publishing, LLC with her husband, Jason. A home school mother of four, she enjoys the opportunity to speak on topics relative to: or-ganization, time management, creating a positive home, and more. She and Jason founded McBride Ministries to reach men, women, and children. Follow her blog at: www.RestoredByHim.com and learn more about Jason’s ministry at www.UltimateManMinistries.com

INCOMPATIBLE for LIFE

What began as an exciting trip to the obstetrician quickly turned to a parent’s worst nightmare. What is a mother to do when she’s told that her unborn child will not be “compatible for life”?

When given the news, at just eighteen weeks pregnant, that their baby girl would not survive, Angie and Todd Smith’s lives would be forever changed. A path sharply turned and lives dramatically impacted would display a message of hope, faith, and the unfailing love of God.

INCOMPATIBLE FOR LIFEIt quickly became apparent that multiple medical issues threatened the life of baby Audrey. Doctors believed she would die in the womb or, at best, survive only minutes following delivery. The Smiths were faced with a difficult decision, terminate the pregnancy or carry on. They sought a great deal of counsel and the insight of a specialist in this field. Nevertheless, the opinion remained the same, “This baby is not ‘compatible for life’.” Through a great deal of prayer the Smiths knew they were going to carry the baby to term and allow God to determine the outcome. “I remember thinking, ‘My God is the same today as He was yesterday’,” Angie shared.

On April 7, 2008 Audrey Caroline was born. She lived for two hours, during which the family was blessed to gather, hold, and embrace the baby. “God

blessed us with such a peaceful ending. At one point, the nurse just looked at me from across the room and nodded so that I could tell the girls myself. It was an amazing moment when our child passed from our arms into the Lord’s arms, with her whole family standing around her,” Angie reflected.

THE IMPACTFeeling somewhat isolated at first, Angie quickly realized one of the great-est lessons for her was learning to reach out, “I realized that I needed people.” An independent woman like Angie was use to taking on the world and not leaning on others. However, God would have another plan, a plan to stretch and strengthen her faith in Him, as well as His people.

“My relationship with the Lord totally changed; it was just a completely different need for Him and for His Word, and for community. I think it’s hard for women in general to reach out. I had three small children, physical limitations during my pregnancy, and a lot of things that I couldn’t do. It was a good way for me to learn to lean on other people, to allow them into what I was going through and to trust my pain with them.”

Angie Smith is married to Todd Smith, member of the award-

winning Christian music group, Selah. They’ve been blessed with

five beautiful daughters and enjoy a humble, happy life. However,

this beautiful couple has faced challenges that even the strongest

of believers would find diffcult to overcome.

15May 2012

She went on to share that, while heart- wrenching, the loss was a faith-building experience for her kids as well. “They were there when she took her last breath.” Angie explained how having a real per-son, a sibling nonetheless, in heaven pro-vides her children with a deeper mean-ing of salvation and eternal life.

Through the journey, it became increasingly difficult to update family and friends and tell-ing the story over and again was difficult. An-gie turned to blogging in an effort to remain

open and communicate. Later, from her blog, sprung her book, I Will Carry You: The Sacred Dance of Grief and Joy, titled after the song Angie and Todd co-wrote. The song was written in preparation for Audrey’s memorial service and is part of Selah’s album, You Deliver Me.

The passion and promise with which An-gie expresses her story is nothing short of life-impacting. God has used her story to reach thousands of people chal-lenged with loss of any kind. Through this tragedy has also come a newly discov-ered calling on Angie’s life, speaking!

God has equipped and prepared her for the challenge of not only sharing her story through writing, but as a speaker as well. Having only spoken a handful of times prior to becoming part of the Women of Faith team, she has embraced each moment and fully relied on God to deliver the message of hope He has for His children. Allowing her the privilege of speaking into the lives of thousands of women each year, Angie has risen to all the God has asked of her.

NEW & IMPROVED Women of FaithYou won’t want to miss Angie and the rest of the exciting line up at this year’s Women of Faith conference. They are making some pret-ty big changes and when I heard Angie speak at the One Day event earlier this year, it was simply awesome! The audience was captured and quickly became a favorite as they fell in love with her authenticity and beautiful heart.

Through their new One Day events, Women of Faith has managed to pack amazing speak-ers into just a single day, allowing for more flexibility and opportunity for attendance. But their annual two day event is something of an extravaganza of inspiration, Biblical teach-ing, challenge, and life-impacting worship.

Women of Faith is a touring, women’s con-ference that visits cities across the U.S. with amazing speakers, worship, and fellow-ship. This year they’ve added a great deal of exiting enhancements. The new Celebrate

What Matters 2012 tour will be in23 cities this fall, including Dallas in September!

The team at Women of Faith encour-ages, “We read your comments, we heard your requests and you had some great ideas! So this year, when you come to a Celebrate What Matters event, you’ll find:

»» A live worship band to accom-pany our Worship Team.

»» More Biblical teaching.

»» A new, more intimate, more interactive stage.

»» Fresh and inspiring dramatic and performing arts segments.

»» Amazing concerts from Amy Grant, CeCe Winans, Selah, and Mandisa, to name just a few.

»» New speakers will join the team, including Liz Curtis Higgs, Mark Lowry, Elisa Morgan, Pat Smith, Max Lucado, and many more!

As we like to say these days, even if you’ve been to Women of Faith before, you’ve never experi-enced it like this. Can’t wait to see you there!”

The Bible verse for this year’s event is, “Our soul waits for the Lord; He is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in Him, Because we have trusted in His holy name.” Psalm 33:20-21 NKJV. Cel-ebrating God’s faithfulness in good times and bad, join women this fall as they experience the testimony and witness of strong, Christian women that are willing to bring you into their

lives, share their struggles, and equip you with biblically sound advice and encouragement.

The event will take place on Septem-ber 21 and 22, 2012 and will be held at American Airlines Center. Learn more at www.WomenofFaith.com

WOMEN & FEARAngie and Todd will forever be changed and the hope-filled story of Audrey will impact lives for eternity. Today, the couple presses for-ward in their race to the finish and find God blessing and encouraging them each step of the way. They celebrate the blessings of God and…one more baby girl, born May of 2010!

Angie’s future as a speaker and writer is shin-ing bright. Along with her Women of Faith tour, television, and print exposure, Angie is sharing more of herself through writing. Her recent work titled, What Women Fear: Walking in Faith that Transforms, addresses her own per-sonal struggle with fear. Treated for anxiety as a child, she knows firsthand the challenges a Christian woman can face regarding worry and doubt. Whether it’s a fear of rejection, abandonment, death or divorce, Angie ad-dresses a wide-range of fear-based topics. Led by Biblical example, areas of fear, worry, distrust, and anxiety are exposed and a path to restora-tion is laid out. What Women Fear is available online and in bookstores.

You may learn more about Angie through her blog www.angiesmithonline.com. There you will also find her journey with Audrey is available from start to finish. Additionally, you’ll find her talking about home schooling, sew-ing, books, speaking events, and more!

—Jennifer McBride

Jennifer is the Editor of Dallas Christian Family mag-azine and co-owner of Trinity Publishing, LLC with her husband, Jason. A home school mother of four, she enjoys the opportunity to speak on topics relative to: or-ganization, time management, creating a positive home, and more. She and Jason founded McBride Ministries to reach men, women, and children. Follow her blog at: www.RestoredByHim.com and learn more about Jason’s ministry at www.UltimateManMinistries.com

INCOMPATIBLE for LIFE

What began as an exciting trip to the obstetrician quickly turned to a parent’s worst nightmare. What is a mother to do when she’s told that her unborn child will not be “compatible for life”?

When given the news, at just eighteen weeks pregnant, that their baby girl would not survive, Angie and Todd Smith’s lives would be forever changed. A path sharply turned and lives dramatically impacted would display a message of hope, faith, and the unfailing love of God.

INCOMPATIBLE FOR LIFEIt quickly became apparent that multiple medical issues threatened the life of baby Audrey. Doctors believed she would die in the womb or, at best, survive only minutes following delivery. The Smiths were faced with a difficult decision, terminate the pregnancy or carry on. They sought a great deal of counsel and the insight of a specialist in this field. Nevertheless, the opinion remained the same, “This baby is not ‘compatible for life’.” Through a great deal of prayer the Smiths knew they were going to carry the baby to term and allow God to determine the outcome. “I remember thinking, ‘My God is the same today as He was yesterday’,” Angie shared.

On April 7, 2008 Audrey Caroline was born. She lived for two hours, during which the family was blessed to gather, hold, and embrace the baby. “God

blessed us with such a peaceful ending. At one point, the nurse just looked at me from across the room and nodded so that I could tell the girls myself. It was an amazing moment when our child passed from our arms into the Lord’s arms, with her whole family standing around her,” Angie reflected.

THE IMPACTFeeling somewhat isolated at first, Angie quickly realized one of the great-est lessons for her was learning to reach out, “I realized that I needed people.” An independent woman like Angie was use to taking on the world and not leaning on others. However, God would have another plan, a plan to stretch and strengthen her faith in Him, as well as His people.

“My relationship with the Lord totally changed; it was just a completely different need for Him and for His Word, and for community. I think it’s hard for women in general to reach out. I had three small children, physical limitations during my pregnancy, and a lot of things that I couldn’t do. It was a good way for me to learn to lean on other people, to allow them into what I was going through and to trust my pain with them.”

Angie Smith is married to Todd Smith, member of the award-

winning Christian music group, Selah. They’ve been blessed with

five beautiful daughters and enjoy a humble, happy life. However,

this beautiful couple has faced challenges that even the strongest

of believers would find diffcult to overcome.

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David graduated from California State University at Long Beach with a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources. He began his career with Disneyland & Walt Disney World. He completed his MBA Degree during his 26-year career as a Human Resources Executive with GTE Corporation.

During his business career, he also taught as an adjunct professor for several universities, including the University of Dallas.

Following his corporate success as Vice President, Human Resources with GTE, David co-founded the Career Solutions ministry, for the purpose of helping men and women in career transition. His Job Seeker Workshops are now being offered weekly at churches in Euless, Dallas, Carrollton, Fort Worth, Allen, Arlington, and Brownwood, TX.

In his book, FINDING A JOB GOD’S WAY, published by Hannibal Books, David equips and encourages individuals wishing to change jobs or pursue success in their current career position.

He is host of a Christian talk radio program, CAREERSOLUTIONS with David Rawles. You may listen each Tuesday and Thursday at 3:30pm on 91.3 fm. David also serves on the Board of the DFW Christian Chamber of Commerce.

David Rawles

17May 2012

5 Simple Steps to Achieving Any Goal

If you’re not happy with your body then your workouts have lost focus. What is your immediate goal? If you don’t have a ready answer then chances are good that your motivation is low and it has resulted in a lack of results. I know from firsthand experience that operating without a goal will get you nowhere. Sure, you may still be exercising regularly and eating mindfully but without that concrete goal your efforts will yield little results.

1. Setting your goal You want to be in “better shape” but that’s so vague, dig deeper! What specifically do you wish you had now that you don’t?

• To drop 3 dress sizes.• To lose 2 inches of arm fat jiggle.• To melt 4 inches from your waist.• To be able to run 3 miles without stopping.

2. Define your timeline Now that you’ve determined exactly what part of your body isn’t up to par; tie that goal in with a specific timeline. When you have a timeline to measure your progress against, you’ll find that achieving your goal becomes an easier process.

• To drop 3 dress sizes by August 20th vacation.• To lose 2 inches of arm fat jiggle by October 13th wedding.• To melt 4 inches from your waist by July 7th pool party.• To be able to run 3 miles without stopping by June 16th city 5k.

3. Name your prize It’s time to take your motivation to the next level. Now that your specific goal is set and your timeline is clearly defined, let’s add a prize that you’ll receive once you’ve accomplished your goal. This prize shouldn’t be anything related to your unhealthy habits – so no junk food or extra large meals. Make the prize an item that will reinforce your slimmer body, like a nice piece of clothing.

• A couple new outfits for your August vacation.• A sleeveless dress for the October wedding.• A new swimsuit for your July pool party.• A new pair of running shoes for your June 5k.

4. Picture it You know what you want, when you want it by, and the reward you’ll get by achieving it. Now spend time picturing your end goal. Find a comfortable, quiet corner, close your eyes and see a mental movie – starring yourself – enjoying your reward with your new and improved body. Play your mental success movie several times throughout the day.

• See yourself enjoying an afternoon of your vacation, wearing your new clothes with confidence.• Imagine how you’ll feel walking down the aisle baring your toned arms.• See yourself lounging by the pool in your swimsuit, carefree and happy.• Imagine the feeling of accomplishment you’ll feel as you cross the finish line.

5. Recipe for success Congratulations! The steps that you’ve taken above have prepared you mentally to take on the challenge of motivating yourself through this transformation process.

—Eric WronaEric Wrona MS, NSCA-CPT Owner/Founder of Wrona Fit Performance Center and the “X-Factor Fitness Boot Camp” 2425 West Parker Rd. #6 Carrollton, TX 75010. www.wronafit.com

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5 Lessons I Learned While On A Blind Date

I went on three blind dates on Leap Day. No, I’m not a sucker for awkward-ness. I’m not on a great man hunt. The look of desperation is not in my eyes. People fascinate me and I love meeting people that I normally wouldn’t meet. Often the men that I meet are in parallel social circles that overlap in places.

Since I just moved to Austin, I decided that it wouldn’t hurt to meet some of the locals. A coworker agreed to set me and two other female coworkers up on the dates (three men and three women all on one big group date). FYI - I wouldn’t recommend group blind dates, it can give the date a competitive feel – these aren’t the Hunger Games of love! Don’t set yourself to compete if you aren’t sure you want the prize.

I didn’t find true love, maybe love, or even the feeling of “let’s try this out” from the date. But I did get a free dinner and a great memory of Leap Day 2012. I don’t regret going on the date or consider it a failure.

Here are some lessons that I learned through my dates:

1. Don’t Stalk. It’s tempting but don’t Facebook stalk the person you are being set up with. Don’t Google them either. Facebook profiles aren’t always a genuine reflection of who that person really is. Trust the friends that set you up with them. If you want to know about your date, ask them questions.

2. Don’t Be Embarrassed. Blind dates aren’t a sign that you are a loser.

Signing up to go on one just means that you are willing to get out of your comfort zone and meet new people. The person sitting across the table from you on your date is in the same boat. So don’t feel like you have to justify yourself.

3. Be Yourself. Completely Yourself. Don’t try to be someone you aren’t. The fact is that you were set up on this blind date because your friends thought that there was something fantastic about you that this guy would like. You’ll never discover what that something is if you are too busy trying to be someone you aren’t.

4. Have Fun. Seriously, relax! The chances are that you aren’t going to see this person again, unless you want to. Lighten up and enjoy the moments you have together. Ask them questions, be genuine, and don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself. It will break the ice.

5. It’s Okay If You Never Speak To Them Again. If the date went south, get up and move on. Don’t pity date someone and don’t pity friend them either. It’s expected with blind dates, so take advantage of it. Your mutual friend will get over it. Don’t date someone just to make a friend happy. That’s a recipe for disaster.

—Caitlin Muir

Caitlin is a 20-something writer who blogs about life, love, and social media. You can follow her adventures at www.CaitlinMuir.com

19May 2012

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Wow, I don’t know what the deal is this week, but it seems like everyone around me is sick! I was eating lunch with students in a local high school this week and couldn’t help but notice that it sounded like a 1000 piece orchestra accept the beautiful sounds had been replaced by sounds of sneezing, sniffing, hacking, coughing, and clearing their throats. It truly seemed like a 100% of the three thousand students present were all sick! Well, guess what? I joined their orchestra two days later. Even as I write this article I am coughing, clear-ing my throat, and keeping Kleenex in business. Yuck!

Whatever kind of sickness it is, one thing is for sure… it’s contagious! That means that it can be spread easily, just by being around someone that has it. But unless you are going to live in a bubble, it is impossible to completely quarantine yourself off from others that are sick at your school.

This is not only true of physical sickness, but moral sickness, or as the Bible calls it “sin.” We are surrounded by people who have a “spiritual disease” that is far worse than a runny nose. Every day we walk among people who delight in doing wrong. Their symptoms may not include coughing and sneezing. However, symptoms of sinfulness usually include: cussing, gossiping, bully-ing, sexual immorality, selfishness, pride, deceitfulness, rebellion, etc. . .

Just like that cold that is going around, it seems like everyone has it! That’s because we do! The Bible is clear that we are all born sinners, and sinners’ sin. The other bad news is that sin is highly contagious!! If you hang around someone who is actively and proudly involved in a particular sin, then most

likely you will be acting the same way in a matter of time. Take cussing for example. God’s word commands us to keep our words and conversations holy, and that we are held accountable to God for every single word that we say. However, if your best friend is a curser, don’t be surprised by the words that start coming out of your mouth as well.

The good news is that there is a cure. Jesus lived a perfect life and died for our sins as a substitution for us. This means that anyone who believes in Jesus and what he accomplished is saved from their sins. And by the power of Christ in your life, you can begin to overcome the sinfulness in your heart. The Bible says that you become a “new creation, the old has gone and the new has come.” That instead of craving selfishness and sinfulness, you begin to desire to live a God-honoring life.

So in the end don’t catch what everyone else seems to have, instead why don’t you spread something around? The cure! Jesus Christ!

Make sure you sanitize your hands and your heart.

—Trey Talley

Trey is the Assistant Pastor/Student Minister at Northview Baptist Church and a leader of Team Impact Ministries. He’s a gifted motivational speaker who has a unique ability to speak compelling truth to young people with love and sincerity, and the author of “Teen Construction Zone: Building a strong foundation for a great life”. www.TreyTalley.com

Be careful it’s contagious!


Money Matters

Crown CEO Chuck Bentley advises taxpayers to forgo the tax-free loan to government but put charitable giving at the top of their priority list, in preparation for future tax days. In an interview with Relevant Magazine, Bentley noted, “Most people in America overpay their taxes throughout the year—that’s a huge mistake. The majority of people will receive a refund on their taxes. That is making interest-free loans to the government. Change your deductions to hold onto that extra cash, but be sure and use some for charitable giving,” said Bentley. “We’re one of the few countries in the world remaining that offer a tax ben-efit or a tax incentive for charitable contributions,” noted Bentley, and that kind of gesture can change the world. Bentley noted that 20-somethings today feel more drawn to charitable work. “Especially this generation; many say they have the heroic gene, they are genetically inclined to help other people and be involved in worthy causes. And if we steward our resources wisely, the majority of the impact of our lives is for the benefit of others as opposed to self.” But the current generation is handicapped by a tightening job market. In a column at Fox news, Bentley noted that more and more employers are tran-sitioning workers to part-time jobs because of rising healthcare costs.

“…hold on to Full-time Work if you can find it,” says Crown CEO Chuck Bentley

“Rising gas prices, trade imbalances, a depressed housing market, burden-some federal regulations and the outsourcing of manufacturing jobs have all weighed heavily on the ability of companies to hire and expand their busi-nesses. A depressed growth rate projected near 2% through the end of 2012 is far below the 4 to 5 percent needed to have a meaningful impact on the unemployment crisis,” wrote Bentley.

With that kind of jobs forecast, it’s a good time to appreciate the jobs we have, and be intentional about helping others. Crown, a non-profit, helps people and businesses integrate their values into business practices, debt reduction, and financial decision-making. For more than 35 years, Crown has been offering economic analysis and advice based on timeless truths. Theirs is a strong, international grassroots organization with offices in the U.S. and overseas. Crown experts work one on one with individuals and business leaders, as well as through workshops and seminars, teaching people how to build on a strong foundation that includes the busi-ness principles and practices found in the Bible. It is well known for its cutting edge materials first developed by its founder, the late Larry Burkett. For more information, go to www.crown.org or call 800-722-1976

Overpay taxes & receive refund, or keep cash and donate?

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“He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” (John 15:2)

Organizations are supposed to increase in whatever metrics they use: in revenues, market share, profits, or other gains. If you are not growing, you are declining. However, along the path every organization picks up clutter and extra baggage that slows down the growth and that must be dealt with. Consider:

•Do you have products or services that are not part of your core busi-ness, which siphon off needed resources?

•Do you have people that are no longer performing, but are still around for emotional or sentimental reasons?

•Do you have systems or processes that are not efficient but “that’s the way we have always done it?”

•Do you tolerate the good and never get to the great?•Do you put up with toxic people and situations?

If the answer to any of these is yes, you probably need to do some pruning. Pruning is a gardening term that means cutting something back so that it can grow at a better rate. Plants that are not pruned will ultimately fail as they are pulling energy and life sources into branches which stifles growth of new life. In the Bible passage above, Jesus taught that we must also be pruned in order to bear fruit. Pruning can be painful and disruptive, but it is pain that will help you at significant levels. Tips to start your own pruning as a leader:

•“Leader up” and face reality. Look at how your organization is re-ally doing, not as you want it to be performing, and not as you hope one day it will be performing. The leader who can only see a bright future is actually a dangerous person.

•Lay all your cards down to a few people who are safe and objective. Let some folks, your advisors, see it all: your organization’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Your org chart, your balance sheet… the real info. It is scary and can produce shame, but most leaders deeply need to know some good people that know the real truth, and will help them. Without them, it is simply too easy to avoid reality and fly blindly.

•Determine what needs to be pruned. Make a list of what branches need to be cut off and run them past your advisors. Review and make sure they are the right ones to prune.

•Envision the benefits. To empower you, write down what you antic-ipate will be the results of your pruning: Better performance? More goals met? More freedom? This is important.

•Do this yearly. Create an annual pruning schedule and make it a normal part of reality. Lots of us clean out our garages every spring whether they need it or not, do the same for your organization.

Leaders who prune well achieve goals and find the pain is well worth it.

—Dr. John Townsend

Dr. John Townsend is a psychologist, business and leadership coach and consultant, and author of 25 books, selling 5 million copies, including the 2 million bestseller Boundaries. Dr. Townsend is a visiting professor at Dallas Theological Seminary & leads the Leadership Coaching Program in Dallas. For more information contact: [email protected] or visit www.drtownsend.com.

23May 2012

The Mistake

I woke up one morning many years ago not feeling quite myself, although I accepted Christ into my life a few years earlier, I yielded to the temptation of my flesh. Insecure at the time, and guided by my emotions, I knew in my heart God found my behavior unacceptable. Eventually I found myself preg-nant, unmarried, and confronted with a decision I never imagined I would face.

Hidden in my heart, I clung to a list of things I promised myself that I would never do. Now the list seemed futile as I faced the choice of bearing a child sooner than I planned. Designed and created with a purpose and plan for his or her life, a precious child knit together by God grew inside my body. This “unplanned” pregnancy I rationalized as an accident or mistake, held me captive to my choices.

Oh, my choices. I remember that day so vividly, can you? For you mothers, remember the day you discovered your new pregnancy? Do you recall your initial thoughts? I can, and instead of experiencing a sense of joy, I drowned in shame, guilt and fear. Whispers from the pit of hell taunted me twenty four hours a day, “what will people think of you,” “you need to finish school first”, “it will ruin your future”, “you are not ready for motherhood.” What I failed to understand at that time, ready or not, I had already entered mother-hood with a baby in my womb. I stood at a crossroads confused about which way to turn.

Faced with a decision to make, clearly aware that choices come with conse-quences, I argued with myself. One minute I considered keeping the baby, the next minute I threw out the age old argument that a woman has the right to choose whether or not I to carry a fetus to term. Emotions escalated, I couldn’t believe what I was contemplating. My thoughts shifted back and forth, heart divided and my soul tortured by my regret: why didn’t I choose abstinence?

Outside pressure smothered me. I felt so afraid and with a heavy heart and much regret I share with you my failure to choose to keep my child. The choice didn’t remove the shame, guilt or fear. The pain and grief I expe-rienced for aborting my child lingered for many years afterwards, and al-though there are still days when I find myself crying out to the Lord, I receive with love and gratitude the forgiveness God offered me when I acknowledged my sin to Him. He whispers in my ear through His spirit, “Your sins are forgiven.” Luke 7:48

The Mourning After

It’s a Saturday afternoon, while flipping through the channels I come across a teen pregnancy program. The pregnant teen struggles with her decision to give her baby up for adoption; surprisingly one of her friends makes the statement “if I got pregnant I would just have an abortion because it would be easier.” Immediately I thought, “No sweetheart that’s not true, well at least not for me.”

That decision ate away at the essence of my soul as I desperately strived to preserve it. It hadn’t liberated me; on the contrary it enslaved me. I had no idea the impact it would have on me some twenty odd years later. With shame hovering over me like a deep cloud of sorrow, rested the fear of judgment if

others were to discover what disgraceful act I had committed. Emotionally crippled consumed with guilt, I cultivated a bitter and resentful spirit as I battled yearly bouts of depression nearing the time I would’ve given birth. Only briefly would my soul find rest until the news of someone expecting, or the sight of an apparently pregnant woman crossed my path to awaken a series of negative emotions. I envied their pending joy.

I couldn’t forgive myself and felt convinced that God couldn’t forgive me either. Consequently three years ago, when my eldest son came to me with news that he was expecting a child, I was devastated. The question he posed afterwards compounded my pain. He asked me whether my opinion of him had changed. Heartbroken, tears ran down my face as I reassured him that nothing could change how much I loved him. And so, the same is true of God, nothing can separate us from His unfailing love; He is compassionate, extending mercy when we willingly come to Him asking for forgiveness. In time, the Lord started the healing process in my heart, once I allowed myself to accept His gift of forgiveness.

The Healing

Every woman has a secret whether it’s a dream filled with hope and aspira-tions for the future, or a regrettable choice from her past she wishes that she could erase. Some secrets I just couldn’t wait to share with my closest friend, and then there’s the secret I couldn’t whisper out loud because it reminded me of the choice I regret most in my life.

Spiritually broken, I felt undeserving of Christ’s forgiveness but at the same time, desperately needing it. Forgiveness seemed out of reach for me, in my heart and mind, I’d committed the worst sin imaginable and should not be forgiven; I was a monumental hypocrite, unworthy of His love and forgive-ness. But God is merciful, and I’m so thankful that He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. (Psalms 103:10 NIV)

The road to healing remains a difficult one for me to travel. Acceptance of God’s forgiveness requires believing that His Word is true, and trusting that He has truly forgiven me. The healing of the mind, when saturated with negative emotions can be powerful motivators to keep us from experiencing peace. But that’s when we must rely on truth not feelings. Scriptures calls this: “being renewing by the transforming of our minds.”

I wish I knew then what I know now, that all the sacrifices that a mother would be required to make are never regretted. During the most difficult times it would be that child putting a smile on her face and by choosing to become a mother it’s by no means easy, but is worth every minute, every second of the day.

Because of God’s grace and my desire to live in obedience to Him, I’ve re-ceived both the courage and strength to share my heart with you, praying that others may find some comfort and receive with love and f�orgiveness God offers. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)Willing to Serve Him,

-Kerra Karim

[email protected]

A Mother’s Secret:


Mom ConnectionBy: Tracey Bianchi

Parenting young children is an all-consuming task that can make moms feel isolated, disconnected, and ineffective beyond the walls of their own home. They want to have a part in the bigger scheme of things, to have real friends and to make the world, their children will inherit, a better place.

In this witty, encouraging book, Tracey Bianchi guides moms on a journey toward celebrating and discovering the underlying rhythm of their lives and how that rhythm pulls them into vibrant relationships. Through stories of her own life as a mom and the experiences of others, she shows moms how to gracefully engage the people who cross their paths rather than viewing others as tasks on a list. Bianchi shares her own, sometimes hilarious, missteps and the importance of vibrant connections and intentional relationships. She also offers a way to find balance in this busy exercise called motherhood.

“Of course, motherhood will eternally be a balancing act with bouts of stress and worry (even depression), a mixture of global concern and lost lunch boxes,” writes Bianchi. “Mom Connection will take you on a journey to celebrate and deepen your friendships to make you a better mother, wife and woman.”

Constantly Craving: How to Make Sense of Always Wanting More By: Merilyn Meberg

Everyone craves more –more romance, more money, more fun, more peace, more time, more purpose, more, more, more. We go through life with a thirst that is unquenchable. Since in this life we can never experience the thirst that is fully quenched, we instead continue to follow our cravings in an effort to find some kind of satisfaction. But that is not to be here on earth. It’s there in heaven.

In Constantly Craving, Meberg discusses our various cravings and offers understanding about why they exist – and how to better manage them. She approaches the subject with the wisdom coming from a long and successful career that has included a professional counseling practice, teaching college English, and leading women’s Bible studies.

“For anyone whose cravings seem stronger than their resistance, I want to remind them of what our heavenly Father is feeling toward us at this very moment, and what He encourages us to do,” notes Meberg. “This book is about recog-nizing and giving a name to the itch, the quest, the craving for a “more” experience, an experience I think of as finally finding home. When we’re able to name what drives us, we can study and understand its potential for fulfillment and its limitations to meet our “more” expectations. The goal is to live in the balance of life that does not always meet your expectations – and a life that may sometimes exceed your expeditions”


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women is diagnosed with breast cancer,” says Harry Collins, D.O., board-certified obstetrician, gynecologist, and spokesperson for LGC. “The gift card provides an oppor-tunity for those who want to help and can afford the chance to provide medical procedures for those who can’t cover the costs.” LGC collaborated with a leading provider of healthcare revenue, payment cycle management, and clinical information exchange solutions, to power its business model. Additional gift cards will be available for further medical services in the near future. Michelle Marte, founder of LGC explains, “My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer last December. Around that same time, fate brought me together with an old friend from high school, Joey Truscelli, who is the former CEO of a major healthcare electronic data interchange company. Joey is no stranger to breast cancer as he not only experienced the loss of a good friend to the disease, Sue Voges, but also witnessed how a mammogram provided my mother with an early diagnosis. Together we de-cided to build this incredible platform; mammography was a perfect place to begin.”

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