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Lisa's avatar

This is beautiful. I long for that kind of community - one where we can be authentic with no fear.

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Shawn Brace's avatar

Thank you, Lisa! I'm glad it resonated with you. I'm grateful that my local church community largely operates this way, though it's still sometimes hard to believe that we can be so authentic and open without the fear of judgment.

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Linda R's avatar

This really speaks to me... I'm thankful to have some people in my life with whom I can be honest. I struggled many years with putting on a facade for fear of rejection, and sometimes find myself reverting back to old habits until the Lord (or one of my friends/sisters) speaks to me. I need that wake up to "Snap out of it!" like in Moonstruck when Loretta slapped Ronny. ;)

Most of all, I try to be open and understanding to whatever people tell me of their own struggles. May God help me to be a better listener and not a "judger."

And Shawn, I'm sorry for your loss of your friend. I'm so thankful that God knows each heart and even the "what might have beens" if people had been given a chance. I look forward to meeting Liz someday.

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Shawn Brace's avatar

Thank you for sharing, Linda!

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Judith JM's avatar

There are many reasons why I like this article, the most important being, we must move towards the light and out of darkness. Dishonesty never helps for restoration, hope and healing.

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Shawn Brace's avatar

Thank you, Judi! I'm so grateful that you have helped foster an environment like that in our local congregation.

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