Relational Dynamics in Transition

Transition is hard. One reason why transitions are hard is because of our relationships. We become disoriented and disconnected with others, with God, and even with ourselves. We get knocked down in some transitions that penetrates deeply to our core identity causing us to doubt and question, who am I? It even causes us to wonder and question, where do I belong?

How often do we become disconnected to ourselves, to others, and to God when in transition when what we really need and want is connection?

I am in the midst of reading, The Expectation Gap by Steve Cuss which some of the concepts he writes about I believe can be magnified and illuminated when in a season of transition. Steve talks about four core relational dynamics, 1) assumptions, 2) reactivity, 3) stuck patterns, and 4) attempted solutions and how these dynamics can block our connection to self, to others, and to God.

In the following weeks, we’ll be diving deeper into these four relational dynamics to see how they may contribute and impact our transition experience.

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March Newsletter

SHANNON’S CORNER Connect. Nurture. Grow. An unexpected and unplanned trip led me to see God’s marvelous and wonderful work at the Assist Pregnancy Center. I learned from the staff that this pregnancy center is unique and different in that the population they serve are women who come already with an 85-90% decision made of aborting their babies. The medical staff who are in the rooms with the women during their ultrasounds share Jesus with them and are compassionate witnesses to each baby as they are seen, valued, and loved. If the mother decides to have the baby the center walks alongside with the mother and family. I had the precious privilege to facilitate a training with all the staff of the pregnancy center to talk about the Wounds from the Work. Listening to their stories of how the Lord called them to work at this pregnancy center and what the cost has been to them, and their families was sacred ground. Creating a safe place for them to be seen and heard in thei...

October Newsletter

SHANNON’S CORNER The Saga Continues… The trip to Malaysia consisted of a two-day spiritual retreat with the theme of ‘Come Away With Me’ and a six-day conference with about 230 missionaries who serve in some aspect of translating the Scriptures. One of the many people who I met was a missionary who served in Cameroon for many years and now is in a new role. As he was sharing, most his words were very negative and depressive. I encouraged him to sign up for a time of prayer and care. At the end of the retreat, this missionary shared with me that he did have a session and I could see that his whole countenance changed, and he was hopeful. His new word he used to describe where he was now is ‘delightful.’ Our time there was creating a safe space for these missionaries to have a place to share what they are struggling with and to connect with Jesus. One missionary is at a crossroads in her life. Another finds himself in the midst of betrayal. A missionary is in a new role as a caregi...

April Newsletter

SHANNON’S CORNER Be still. Be present. Behold. The prayer labyrinth is a journey that draws us closer to the heart of God with every step. It’s a path where we listen, trust, and follow, knowing that He is always guiding us. As we walk this path of prayer, we learn to recognize His voice, to lean into His presence, and to surrender to His direction. It’s not just about where we’re going—it’s about who we’re walking with. Lent this year has been a journey of walking inward toward the center of the labyrinth. Along the way, releasing my burdens to Jesus who is my beast of burden (Zec. 9:9), the One who carries what I cannot. Arriving at the center, I find a resting place for my soul (Mt. 11:28-30) and resting in God’s loving embrace as He makes room for the new to spring up within me (Is. 43:18-19). Now I’m journeying out of the labyrinth with the anointing of His presence and with an overflowing cup (Ps 23:5). Such an honor a...

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