I don’t recall ever feeling like I fit in anywhere. Although in realty I wanted to. Growing up is hard, as is trying to fit in, so part of me I think just decided to go the “loner” route, in an attempt to shield myself from rejections, and deny my desire for true connections - …
Author: DJS
Going Out
If there’s a voluntary meeting, or event, my first impulse is usually not to go. If I end up going, it’s usually not without some effort to do so. As I reflect and pray about this, I realize, as some may assume, it’s because I’m an introvert, which isn’t all true - for I get …
Life Calling
The Japanese use the word Ikigai to describe one’s purpose for living. It intersects one’s passion, skills, a world need, and income stream - at the center, where all 4 intersect is one’s Ikigai, or purpose. It could also be described as one’s life calling. This concept also illustrates why “retirement” is not a word …
Hot Donuts
This world can be desperately disappointing - for everything in it decays, dies, and diminishes in time. Not to sound too morbid though - there is hope. It just can’t be found in the world - but oh how we try. I have and still do at times - either looking to people, relationships, positions, …
“What Dreams May Come”
“You who seek God. Live a happy life!Keep your eyes open for God, watch for his works; be alert for signs of his presence. Remember the world of wonders he has made, his miracles, and verdicts rendered…”. Psalm 105. Later in that passage it goes on to say the time came to “fulfill Joseph’s dreams”. …
The First To…
Some have never experienced the shame of being picked last, or not at all during grade school recess. Perhaps some were always the team captain, or picked first for their “kick-ball” talents. Life on earth isn’t fair, never was, and never will be - for some will always be the first chosen, born into privilege, …
Hungry Hearts
Materialism, hedonism, and individualism were all once held and lived by me as efforts to try and free myself from all my inner and outer sufferings. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with nice things, having fun, and being an individual, but none of these things bring the abundant life we so desire. For one, we …
Run Forrest Run!
I met an older sailor during my time completing my own USCG Captains license, that said something I hope will be helpful in sharing. He was as salty as they came, with weather beaten skin, scraggly beard, and pony tail. A quiet sort, he shared openly when asked, how he had traveled and lived in …
Inner Circles
Ever notice how there always seems to be inner circles within inner circles? For example, there are coastal areas you can go to vacation that are really nice, and on that same island, there is a gated area that is even nicer and then within those gates is another gate that hides the most pristine …
Relax and Work?
Relaxing and working don’t usually go together. We tend to think of them as opposites. In other words, I’m able to relax when I’m away from work. Yet, I love the insights gleaned from Psalm 127. It actually describes an anxious work, and then goes on to explain how God enjoys giving His beloved relaxation. …
CareerCall 