As a new hospice volunteer I was uncertain what to expect. The psychological process of sudden deaths was familiar to me as the director of a victim’s services program, but sitting with families who’s loved ones were dying over weeks and months was new...
He’d started a new business from scratch a few years ago, and came in for some support. He outlined his business plan (which was solid), explained his background (offered him the necessary experience and skills), and shared how people were simply not buying his...
Benny’s favorite activity as a little kid was going to church. Sunday School, volunteering at fundraising spaghetti dinners, youth group trips when she got older—there was nothing she wouldn’t do. She was a natural leader and encouraged other teens to join her. Soon she started...
Sean grew up with a single mom who worked two jobs to make sure he and his brothers always had what they needed. Between his mom’s work schedules and his siblings sporting events it was rare to have everyone home at one time. ...
Dan and Darrel have a marriage with traditional roles. Dan works outside the home financially supporting the family. He takes the kids on outdoor adventures on the weekends, and gives Darrel a card once a year (on their anniversary). Darrel manages the...
“It doesn’t make sense. I am doing everything I’m supposed to do. I take my medication, ride my exercise bike a few times a week, eat more veggies and fruits, talk about my feelings (even though you know I hate that), and come...
Before I could sit down Paul burst out, “I know she’s not interested in me.” Thoroughly confused I asked, “Who? Explain please!” Paul recently went on a first date and, although he was interested, he believed she was not. She cancelled multiple...
“The scent of warmed earth, the mold of dead leaves, the angle of sun on my shoulders suddenly floods me with a sharp happiness and I look up to see that the ravens are crossing and circling…I watch as they throw themselves off a branch...
“Amy, I just can’t. My heart is broken into a million pieces, my life is in shambles, and nothing is working for me.” Val’s body was shaking as she sobbed in a corner of the couch. In the past two months her...
Betty, a woman in her eighties, comes in for “tune up” sessions a few times a year. She brings in a handwritten list with her top five agenda items. She was clear with me from the beginning. “I don't want to dissect...
