deconstruction

Delve into a poignant exploration of a child's reflections on their father's gradual cognitive decline, juxtaposed with memories of a childhood steeped in religious fervor and conflicting teachings. This evocative narrative uncovers the fear and helplessness of witnessing a loved one's mental erosion, while recalling the profound impact of a parent's zealous beliefs on a young mind. As past and present collide, the story invites readers to ponder the deep-rooted influence of family and faith, challenging us to find meaning amid uncertainty. Discover how this journey from youthful indoctrination to adult introspection unfolds in a moving account of love, loss, and personal growth.

The full letter is available to paid subscribers on Substack. These are sacred stories, and I’m choosing to share them in sacred space.

Read the full letter here: Subscribe to Substack
Thank you for supporting honest stories and gentle rebellion.

Delve into the compelling exploration of a profound question: what does it truly mean to love your enemies? This engaging piece challenges conventional interpretations of eternal punishment and tackles the complexities of faith, belief, and the perceived divide between evangelical and liberal mindsets. It invites readers to reconsider the notion of enemy, urging a shift towards understanding and curiosity rather than division and dismissal. Instead of accepting rigid paradigms, it proposes that kindness and patience could be the bridges needed to mend societal rifts. The journey isn't about abandoning beliefs but rather about preparing the ground for growth and connection in a world often torn by ideological battles. This post will provoke thought and encourage an all-important reassessment of how we perceive others—and ourselves—in the pursuit of a harmonious coexistence.

Have you ever considered who or what is shaping your thoughts and beliefs each day? Just like you wouldn't allow someone else to control your daily grooming routine, it's crucial to recognize that your mind is being influenced by external forces from the moment you're born—whether it's through family, culture, or societal norms. This blog post delves into the concept of subconscious programming and offers empowering strategies to take back control, using tools like self-hypnosis and affirmations to intentionally rewrite your internal narrative. Are you ready to start washing your brain with purpose and reclaim your mental autonomy?

In a garden, a discovery of tiny holes in kale leaves led to a profound realization about nurturing. Instead of condemning the plant, the focus shifted to understanding the cause—spring cankerworms from a nearby oak tree. This incident mirrors how we should approach our own struggles, not with self-blame but with curiosity about our environment and needs.

Just as a gardener examines the soil, sun, and water to aid a struggling plant, we should look at our own life conditions when facing personal challenges. Often, we are quick to fault ourselves for our distress, yet the real issue may lie in our surroundings or unmet needs. This perspective shift from self-criticism to environmental awareness can lead to more compassionate self-care and improved well-being.

This gardening lesson extends to parenting as well. When children struggle, the solution isn't to demand resilience but to assess their needs for rest, nourishment, and safety. By tending to the 'soil' of their lives with love and attention, we foster an environment where both children and adults can thrive, free from the burdens of unnecessary pressure and punishment.

The teachings of Jesus emphasize loving one's enemies and neighbors as oneself, yet these principles often seem to be at odds with the messages preached in some Christian settings. While Jesus advocated for unconditional love, many church teachings focus on judgment and the identification of enemies, ranging from political groups to different religious denominations. This discrepancy highlights a significant challenge in aligning the preached word with the actual teachings of Christ.

The concept of love as defined in 1 Corinthians 13—patient, kind, and devoid of envy or pride—stands in stark contrast to the punitive and self-righteous attitudes sometimes found within religious communities. True love, as described, does not keep score or insist on its own way, suggesting that practices like legislating morality or condemning others to eternal hell are antithetical to the essence of love. If God is love, as stated in 1 John, then these loving attributes should be reflected in the actions and beliefs of those who claim to follow Him.

Following Christ does not necessitate identifying as a Christian; rather, it is the practice of unconditional love that defines true discipleship. Leaving behind a system that discourages critical thinking and promotes division can lead to a deeper understanding of what it means to love without enemies. This journey, though challenging, fosters personal healing and the realization that perceived enemies are often constructs that can be unlearned, paving the way for a more loving and inclusive worldview.