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Life Transitions and the Wisdom of a Snowstorm

  I enjoy the snow. I was genuinely looking forward to the snowstorm predicted to arrive this weekend where I live. There is something about snow that feels both beautiful and grounding—the hush it brings, the way it slows the world, the invitation to pause. Snow transforms the landscape, not by force, but by presence. As I looked out my window, I found myself remembering other snowstorms I’ve lived through—and noticing how closely they mirror the experience of life transitions. Preparing for the Storm When we know a snowstorm is coming, most of us prepare as best we can. We stock up on food, gather supplies, charge backup batteries, and make sure we’re ready in case power goes out or plans change. Some life transitions offer that same kind of advance notice. A planned career change. A move. A retirement. A child leaving home. When we know change is approaching, we can prepare ourselves emotionally as well as practically—tending to what is life-giving, saying meaningful goodbyes, f...
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January Newsletter

SHANNON’S CORNER Connect. Nurture. Grow. Happy New Year!  The year began on a joyful note—time with my family and even winning the Golden Plunger.  As lighthearted as that moment was, it felt symbolic.  I sense the Lord gently opening and stretching me, inviting me to   take the plunge   with Him into the fresh and new work He is doing. Have you ever realized how much you missed something only after it re-entered your life?  Basketball has always been woven into the fabric of the Eaton family.  Growing up, my four siblings and I played, watched college games, and faithfully filled out March Madness brackets.  After 2006, basketball largely disappeared from my life—until a couple of years ago, when my nephews started playing. This season, basketball has returned in an unexpected and meaningful way.    Through St. Theresa’s basketball, the Lord has provided a local community that has been a deep gift to my sou...

Connect: Discernment Begins with Noticing

  Before you can hear what is true for you, you have to slow down enough to notice what’s happening inside you. Discernment always begins with connection — to your body, your emotions, your longings, and your fatigue. Your body often knows before your mind does. A tightening in your chest. A heaviness in your shoulders. A sense of relief when you imagine saying no. A quiet excitement when you imagine saying yes. These are not inconveniences. They are information. So many of us override this inner data because we’ve learned to be “reasonable,” “helpful,” or “easygoing.” But discernment asks something different:   Can I be honest about what I am actually experiencing? Try asking yourself: ·         What do I feel when I think about this choice? ·         Where do I sense resistance or openness in my body? ·         Am I moving from fear, obligation, or clarity? Connection cre...