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Gentleness of A Father

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Fatherhood holds a profound influence, yet the experience of having a father varies greatly. Some have never known their fathers, while others have had inconsistent or emotionally distant relationships. These broken bonds can lead to resentment, acceptance of dysfunction, or simply a resigned “it is what it is” attitude.

However, true fatherhood is modeled by God, the ultimate Father, who offers tender love and compassion, even when we fail. His call to men is to reject harmful societal norms of fatherhood and embrace a legacy of love, patience, and moral integrity. The scripture from Ephesians 6:4 reminds fathers to nurture their children tenderly, reflecting God’s gentle correction and unwavering presence.

This Father’s Day, let’s break the cycle of dysfunction. Let’s redefine fatherhood by becoming men who honor their words, show up with love, and create stability for future generations. Through God’s wisdom, men can lead with compassion and humility, leaving a lasting legacy of strength and integrity.

“A gentle father shows his strength in patience, love, and understanding.”

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The Soul of Giving

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The act of giving goes beyond just a simple gesture; it becomes a powerful force that nurtures not only those who receive but also those who give. I learned this truth during a transformative experience with the nonprofit Giving Back to Kids. It was through giving Christmas presents to children in need that I discovered how deeply generosity can touch hearts. The joy I saw in their eyes wasn’t just about the gifts—it was a reminder that we’re all interconnected, and true fulfillment comes from what we share. The experience became a cornerstone in my life’s mission, teaching me that giving isn’t just an act but a bridge that connects us all, creating a cycle of kindness that elevates our spirits.

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A Heart Full of Thanks: Celebrating God’s Everyday Goodness

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In a world where heartbreak and disappointment seem to dominate conversations about love, it’s easy to feel hopeless. But all is not lost. Love is still alive and ever-present if we simply seek Him.

This Thanksgiving, I’m deeply grateful for the unwavering presence of God in my life. People may fail us, friendships may fade, and even the closest relationships can break — but God never fails. He listens when I speak, comforts me in my struggles, and reminds me that I am never alone.

Knowing God personally brings peace in moments of uncertainty and hope when life feels overwhelming. His promises, faithfulness, and love are constant, even when everything else shifts.

So, I ask you — do you know Him that way? And if so, aren’t you grateful?

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From Fear to Faith: Rediscovering God

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Starting something new begins with trusting God and facing our true selves—the good, the bad, and everything in between. God calls us to confront our truths with Him, not out of fear, but with faith. By aligning ourselves with God’s Word and reflecting His image, we can grow in trust and face the challenges in our lives. When we see God as a loving Father who comforts us, we embrace a deeper faith that helps us overcome doubt and fear. Trusting in His plan allows us to move forward with confidence and belief in His promises. As we pray, reflect, and believe, we grow closer to His love and truth.

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Persevering Through Trials With Positive Persistence

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On November 4th, 2020, my life changed in an instant. A seizure caused by a previous head injury led to a catastrophic crash, leaving me with 20 broken bones, a broken jaw, a torn carotid artery, and a stroke. Flatlining at the scene, it seemed as though my life was over. But God had different plans for me.

After spending 15 days in a coma, I woke up with a deep sense of purpose. I knew my road to recovery would be long and difficult, but it was my second chance at life. Over the next three years, my faith in God and resilience guided me through the pain. My accident lawyer worked tirelessly to get my case deemed catastrophic, and I was able to start the rehabilitation process.

Despite the immense challenges, I found strength I never knew I had. My relationship with God became my anchor, and through prayer, I felt His presence every step of the way. Now, more than three years later, I have a renewed sense of clarity and determination. I am setting new goals, including a dream to compete in the Olympics, and I know that with God’s guidance, no obstacle is insurmountable.

This journey has taught me that resilience is not just about bouncing back, but about embracing the struggle and trusting in God’s plan. Never give up, because the rewards of getting back up are immeasurable.

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Triumphing Over Temptation

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Overcoming bad habits is often a challenging journey, but the key to true success lies in understanding that we rarely overcome the hardest challenges on our own. When we fight for ourselves alone, it can lead to pride, and ultimately, self-sabotage. We tend to act in ways that we think are best for us, but without considering how it affects others. True growth happens when we fight for something greater than ourselves—when we fight for others, especially for love.

Think of addiction as trying to empty a glass of dirty water. No matter how many times you pour it out, it will eventually refill. The solution isn’t to keep emptying the glass, but to fill it with something clean. Like my mom, who spent 30 years trying to quit smoking. She kept quitting, failing again and again, until one day she realized her addiction was harming her children. It was then that she quit for them, and in doing so, she found the strength to quit for herself.

This is the power of love. It doesn’t fail, even in the toughest battles. As love perseveres, addiction starves. When you fall, get up, repent, and keep moving forward. Slow and steady wins the race, and no matter how long it takes, you will eventually conquer. Love is the key, and with faith, prayer, and support, you can transform your life, step by step. You are not alone, and you are loved. Keep quitting, and one day, you will never start again.

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3 Steps to Improving (Or Possibly Saving) Your Marriage

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Lasting love is the dream of every couple, but it requires intentional effort to endure through life’s challenges. In our 42 years of marriage, Jacquie and I have found three key practices that have strengthened our bond: setting aside weekly date nights, meeting each other’s fundamental needs, and committing to never intentionally hurt one another. Prioritizing intimacy, being open about our needs, and walking in forgiveness have helped nurture our lasting love. While no relationship is without its challenges, these commitments have made our marriage a lifelong journey of connection, growth, and grace.

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Auntie’s Love Song: Patience and Promise

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As an aunt, I’ve poured love into the lives of many children, guiding them through laughter, tears, and dreams untold. Though I haven’t birthed my own, I’ve nurtured, mentored, and cherished each moment spent in their world. Whether in the classroom or at home, I’ve woven dreams, held them close, and patiently waited for God’s timing. Family isn’t just about blood—it’s about love’s embrace. With every giggle and tender touch, I’ve been a light, waiting with love and grace for the story that’s yet to unfold.

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Confidently Shaping Self-Concepts

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Identity is a powerful force that shapes every aspect of who we are and how we interact with the world around us. It is the deep-rooted understanding of ourselves, formed through memories, experiences, relationships, and values, and influences how we behave, think, and perceive others. Often, we look to external sources—like what people say, what we own, or what we do—to define our worth. However, true identity transcends these surface-level markers. It is built from a foundation of self-awareness and is nurtured through the relationships we form, particularly in our formative years.

In understanding who we are, we can begin to recognize the deep influence of our upbringing, especially parenting. The voices of those around us—whether positive or negative—play a significant role in shaping our perceptions and, consequently, our identity. But it’s crucial to remember that identity is not solely defined by external factors; it is also rooted in a spiritual understanding. As John 15:16 beautifully states, we are chosen by the Creator and appointed to live with purpose and impact, long before we begin making moves in the world. When we embrace this truth, we find a deep sense of belonging, love, and worth that is independent of our actions, possessions, or the opinions of others. This revolutionary perspective shifts our identity from a mere reflection of external influences to a powerful realization of who we are at our core.

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Cultural Continuity: The Power of Boundaries in Armenian Christian Tradition

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In the heart of Armenian culture, where faith, tradition, and community intertwine, the practice of setting boundaries has always been a cornerstone of both personal and familial life. With Christianity as the foundation of our national identity, Armenian households became sanctuaries of spiritual devotion, where the teachings of Christ were passed down from generation to generation. Parents instilled in their children the understanding that the home is a sacred space—one that must be protected through clear boundaries that reflect love, compassion, and respect for others. Just as Jesus Christ exemplified the importance of setting boundaries while maintaining empathy and selflessness, Armenian parents taught that the boundaries within our homes should protect our values and promote kindness, humility, and service to others. These boundaries are not only essential for personal well-being but also serve to preserve cultural identity and continuity across generations. In a world where cultural assimilation threatens our ancestral heritage, these boundaries help keep the richness of our Armenian and Black roots alive, ensuring that we pass down a legacy of faith, love, and integrity to our children.

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