Some people are born with a natural instinct to fix things. Problems, relationships, systems — if something is broken, the urge to make it right kicks in. That “I have to fix it” trait can be a powerful strength in leadership roles. It builds trust, fosters teamwork, and helps navigate challenges with empathy and balance. […]

Every year, as Memorial Day approaches, I find myself reflecting on what this day truly means. It’s easy to get caught up in the long weekend, the barbecues, and the unofficial start of summer. But for many families—mine included—Memorial Day carries a much deeper weight. I often hear people say, “Thank you for your service,” to

IntroductionHigh in California’s Sierra Nevada, Donner Pass is a place where both beauty and tragedy fill the mountain air. This rugged land has challenged travelers for centuries and is named for one of the darkest moments in pioneer history. Donner Pass is where people have always tried to push forward, sometimes even going up against

Last fall, I set out on my very first solo trip—a journey that turned out to be both peaceful and empowering. My destination was Midland, Michigan, home to one of the most enchanting places I’ve ever explored: Dow Gardens. Tucked away in the heart of the city, this 110-acre botanical wonderland feels like stepping into

What Does Pain Really Mean? Everyone has felt pain at some point — a headache, a paper cut, a stubbed toe, or even a broken bone. Those are the kinds of pain most people understand. But what if pain never went away? What if it followed every step, every breath, every morning you tried to

In recent years, the church has become less apparent in everyday life. Many people wonder if the decline began with the pandemic or if COVID simply gave people an excuse to stop attending. When churches started streaming services online, attendance dropped even further. Watching from home is convenient, but it doesn’t feel the same. The