Generated by All in One SEO Pro v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Life's Journey Reflections on Life ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://lifesjourney.us/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Anger and Regret](https://lifesjourney.us/uncategorized/anger-and-regret/) - Anger and Regret by Michael Obsatz So--we do a lot of things, and life turns out how it does. Sometimes we make good choices and reap the benefits. Sometimes, our choices lead us to rejection, disappointment, frustration, and emotional pain. Sometimes, a decision that seemed wise turns out to be foolish. So we think-- “If ## Pages - [Home](https://lifesjourney.us/) - Welcome to Life's Journey Journeys are complicated and surprising. There are many roads to travel. Some have detours. Others have roadblocks. We change and grow. We explore and try new ways of being. We experience transformation on our journeys. We can learn from everything that happens. We can see the gifts in the challenges, and opportunities that we didn’t expect. This site explores the many aspects of life’s journey. It contains Reflections – bits of wisdom, ideas, and insights for you to try on. Check back often, we will continue to add content as it becomes available. - [Contact Us](https://lifesjourney.us/contact/) - Email: admin@lifesjourney.us Contributors: David Tillman is a retired hospital and hospice chaplain and a volunteer sheriff's chaplain. He is an ordained United Church of Christ minister. Before his second career as a chaplain, David worked in printing sales and marketing for over 30 years. He has been involved in men's work for over 30 years. - [How Caregivers Can Ease Financial Stress and Protect Their Mental Health by Gwen Payne](https://lifesjourney.us/how-caregivers-can-ease-financial-stress-and-protect-their-mental-health-by-gwen-payne/) - How Caregivers Can Ease Financial Stress and Protect Their Mental Health By Gwen Payne – July 2026 For adult children managing a parent’s care, spouses supporting a partner through illness, and friends coordinating long-distance help, caregiver financial stress can become a constant background pressure. The core tension is simple: caregiving demands time and emotional - [Spirituality and Religion Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/spirituality-and-religion-menu/) - Spirituality and Religion Menu How are we are loved by and connected to God, or Spirit, or giver of life? How do we understand and express our relationship with God? We Are part of the Divine Flow: The Legacy We Leave Behind by Dr. Michael Obsatz - July 2026 "A lot of folks wonder about - [We Are Part of the Divine Flow by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/we-are-part-of-the-divine-flow-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/We-Are-Part-of-the-Divine-Flow-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-July-2026.pdf" title="We Are Part of the Divine Flow by Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2026"] To download click here: - [Education and Lifetime Learning Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/education-and-lifetime-learning-menu/) - Education and Lifetime Learning Menu Education offers us learning about many subjects, ideas, and ways to live in the world. We learn how to socialize as we meet and interact with others. Mentors come into our lives to encourage, teach, and support us. Education and personal reflection are ways that helps us create the life - [What does Erwin Schrödinger's "What Is Life" Book Teach Us About Todays World](https://lifesjourney.us/what-does-erwin-schrodingers-what-is-life-book-teach-us-about-todays-world/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/What-does-Erwin-Schrodinger-What-Is-Life-book-Teach-Us-About-Todays-World-lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="What does Erwin Schrödinger What Is Life book Teach Us About Todays World – lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Book-Summary-What-Is-Life-by-Erwin-Schrodinger-lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Book Summary – What Is Life by Erwin Schrödinger – lifesjourney.us"] . To download click here: - [Family Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/family-menu/) - Family Menu Our biological or adopted family will influence us in more ways than we can imagine. Our family can be a source of love and many blessings. Our family also can be a source of pain, abuse, frustration, anger, and fear. We learn ways of perceiving, attitudes, values, skills, spiritual beliefs, coping mechanisms, and - [Relationships and Social Interaction Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/relationships-and-social-interaction-menu/) - Relationships and Social Interaction Menu It takes two people to create a relationship. At times relationships break down. When that happens, take time to reflect on what happened. What part in this is my own stuff? Look at what can I do to bring us back into relationship? From our birth we have been interacting - [How to Save Modern Family Stories Before They Fade and Disappear by Gwen Payne](https://lifesjourney.us/how-to-save-modern-family-stories-before-they-fade-and-disappear-by-gwen-payne/) - Image via Pexels How to Save Modern Family Stories Before They Fade and Disappear By Gwen Payne – June 2026 . Families preserve oral history best when they record the voices of parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and older relatives while those people are still able to tell their stories in their own words. A - [Create A Written Snapshot of "My Life Through the Years"](https://lifesjourney.us/create-a-written-snapshot-of-my-life-through-the-years-worksheet/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/A-Snapshot-of-My-Life-Through-the-Years-July-2024-r2a-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="A Snapshot of My Life Through the Years – July 2024 r2a – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/A-Snapshot-of-My-Life-Worksheet-with-lines-July-30-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="A Snapshot of My Life Worksheet with lines – July 30 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: To download a doc. file without lines click here: [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/A-Snapshot-of-My-Life-Worksheet-Example-July-30-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="A Snapshot - [Raising Resilient Kids: Building Confidence and Independence at Home](https://lifesjourney.us/raising-resilient-kids-building-confidence-and-independence-at-home/) - Raising Resilient Kids: Building Confidence and Independence at Home By Gwen Payne – June 2026 . For parents of school-age children, child self-confidence development can feel like a daily puzzle: a child can seem capable one moment and shut down the next. Self-esteem shapes early childhood emotional growth, influencing how kids handle mistakes, speak up, - [Mental Health, Addictions, and Self-Care Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/mental-health-addictions-and-self-care-menu/) - Mental Health, Addictions, and Self-Care Menu Many people suffer from addictions, abuse, trauma, and grief. Learning about and doing self-care is one way to allow oneself to heal and create new beginnings. How do you take care of yourself? Self-compassion, self-love, engaging with others you trust, being cared for by medical and/or mental health professionals, - [Death, Dying, Grief, and Loss Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/death-dying-grief-and-loss-menu/) - Death, Dying, Grief, and Loss Menu How do we explore death and dying? As a child, what did we learn from our parents and family about death at the first funeral or memorial service we attended? How has understanding changed as we have aged? How do we let go of control? A Calmer Home, a - ["Oh, Grow Up" with Video](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up/) - "Oh, Grow Up" Ten Tasks for Mature Wisdom by Dr. Michael Obsatz – 2017. Many of the problems in our culture and across the world come from the fact that adults in leadership positions and their followers lack maturity, wisdom, compassion, and spiritual connection. Many leaders and their followers remain in a childhood trauma system - [The Caregiver's Practical Guide to Preventing Burnout by Gwen Payne](https://lifesjourney.us/the-caregivers-practical-guide-to-preventing-burnout-by-gwen-payne/) - A Calmer Home, a Steadier Heart: The Caregiver's Practical Guide to Preventing Burnout By Gwen Payne – June 2026 . If you are caring for someone you love, whether a parent, a spouse, or a sibling, you already know that caregiving is one of the most meaningful things a person can do. You also know - [Compassionate Insights into Living Through Loss and Grief](https://lifesjourney.us/compassionate-insights-into-living-through-loss-and-grief/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Compassionate-Insights-into-Living-Through-Loss-and-Grief-May-2026.pdf" title="Compassionate Insights into Living Through Loss and Grief – May 2026"] . To download click here: - [Caring for a Loved One](https://lifesjourney.us/caring-for-a-loved-one/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Caring-for-a-Loved-One-May-31-2026-a.pdf" title="Caring for a Loved One – May 31 2026 a"] . To download click here: - [A Compassionate Guide for Living with Loss and Grief](https://lifesjourney.us/a-compassionate-guide-for-living-with-loss-and-grief/) - A Compassionate Guide for Living with Loss and Grief Inspired by the Wisdom and Teachings of Ted Bowman . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/A-Compassionate-Guide-for-Living-with-Loss-and-Grief-May-31-2026.pdf" title="A Compassionate Guide for Living with Loss and Grief – May 31 2026"] . To download click here: - [How to Manage Grief Anxiety and Find Peace After Losing a Loved One by Gwen Payne](https://lifesjourney.us/how-to-manage-grief-anxiety-and-find-peace-after-losing-a-loved-one-by-gwen-payne/) - How to Manage Grief Anxiety and Find Peace After Losing a Loved One by Gwen Payne – May 2026 Adults coping with grief after the loss of a loved one often expect sadness, yet feel blindsided by managing grief-related anxiety and the heaviness of depression after loss. The emotional impact of bereavement can show up - [Storytelling in Small Groups Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/storytelling-in-small-groups-menu/) - Storytelling in Small Groups Menu Click here for Storytelling in Small Group Information Page Click here for Storytelling in Small Group Meeting Process Information Healing through Sharing Stories: Past, Present, and Future How do you feel after someone has listened from their heart as you share a story that is meaningful to you? "Oh Grow Up" Reflection - [Living in Process by Anne Wilson Schaef - Resources](https://lifesjourney.us/living-in-process-by-anne-wilson-schaef-resources/) - Living in Process by Anne Wilson Schaef - Resources [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Summary-of-Living-in-Process-by-Anne-Wilson-Schaef-created-April-2026.pdf" title="Summary of Living in Process by Anne Wilson Schaef – created April 2026"] To download click here: . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Detailed-Summary-of-Living-in-Process-by-Anne-Wilson-Schaef-created-April-2026.pdf" title="Detailed Summary of Living in Process by Anne Wilson Schaef – created April 2026"] To download click here: [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Workbook-for-Living-in-Process-by-Anne-Wilson-Schaef-created-April-2026.pdf" title="Workbook for Living in - [Living in Process - video](https://lifesjourney.us/living-in-process/) - Talks About Living in Process video by Dr. Michael Obsatz – 2014 Dr. Michael Obsatz begins the video by saying “One of the things that people have a really hard time with is feeling like a failure. Like they did something, or they are a failure, or they did something that failed. A way to - [Summary of the Book: The Fifth Season by Mark Nepo](https://lifesjourney.us/summary-of-book-the-fifth-season-by-mark-nepo/) - Summary of the Book: The Fifth Season by Mark Nepo [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Summary-of-the-book-The-Fifth-Season-by-Mark-Nepo-using-ChatGPT-April-2026.pdf" title="Summary of the book The Fifth Season by Mark Nepo using ChatGPT – April 2026"] . To download click here: . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Detailed-Summary-of-The-Fifth-Season-by-Mark-Nepo-April-2026-.pdf" title="Detailed Summary of The Fifth Season by Mark Nepo – April 2026"] . To download click here: [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/The-Fifth-Season-by-Mark-Nepo-Journal-Workbook-April-2026-.pdf" title="The - [Aging Grace-Fully Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/aging-grace-fully-menu/) - Aging Grace-Fully Menu Aging Grace-Fully is a series of readings and activities to give you insights and an understanding of aging. In his book, Falling Upward – A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life, Richard Rohr says: “In the first half of life, we are naturally and rightly preoccupied with establishing our identity – - [PROCESSING Feelings by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/processing-feelings-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - PROCESSING Feelings Helping Children Heal from Trauma and Suffering By Dr. Michael Obsatz [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PROCESSING-Feelings-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-April-2026.pdf" title="PROCESSING Feelings by Dr. Michael Obsatz – April 2026"] . To download click here: - [The Transformation of Consciousness - by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/the-transformation-of-consciousness-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - The Transformation of Consciousness Sheveled, Gruntled, Combobulated, and Whelmed by Dr. Michael Obsatz . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/The-Transformation-of-Consciousness-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Apr.-2026.pdf" title="The Transformation of Consciousness by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Apr. 2026"] . To download click here: - [THE RESURRECTION OF ONENESS CONNECTION by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/the-resurrection-of-oneness-connection-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - THE RESURRECTION OF ONENESS CONNECTION by Dr. Michael Obsatz [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/THE-RESURRECTION-OF-ONENESS-CONNECTION-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-March-2026.pdf" title="THE RESURRECTION OF ONENESS CONNECTION by Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2026"] . To download click here: - [ONE IN THE SPIRIT by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/one-in-the-spirit-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - ONE IN THE SPIRIT! by Dr. Michael Obsatz [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ONE-IN-THE-SPIRIT-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-March-2026.pdf" title="ONE IN THE SPIRIT by Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2026"] . To download click here: - [Seeking High Fidelity by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/seeking-high-fidelity-by-dan-ofstedal/) - Seeking High Fidelity by Dan Ofstedal [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Seeking-High-Fidelity-by-Dan-Ofstedal-March-2026.pdf" title="Seeking High Fidelity by Dan Ofstedal – March 2026"] . To download click here: - [COURAGE by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/courage-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - COURAGE by Dr. Michael Obsatz . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/C-O-U-R-A-G-E-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-March-2026.pdf" title="C O U R A G E by Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2026"] . To download click here: - [The Spiritual Umbilical Cord by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/the-spiritual-umbilical-cord-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - The Spiritual Umbilical Cord: Birth Trauma and Spiritual Connection By Dr. Michael Obsatz . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/The-Spiritual-Umbilical-Cord-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-March-2026.pdf" title="The Spiritual Umbilical Cord by Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2026"] . To download click here: - [Song Lyrics - Storytelling In Small Groups Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/song-lyrics-storytelling-in-small-groups-menu/) - Song Lyrics – Storytelling In Small Groups Menu Song Lyrics for Small Group Storytelling Blackbird by The Beatles For Storytelling "Blackbird singing in the dead of night. Take these broken wings and learn to fly. All your life, You were only waiting for this moment to arise..." The Beatles Click Here Surely the Presence of - [Hallelujah by MaMuse song lyrics and storytelling in small groups](https://lifesjourney.us/hallelujah-by-mamuse-song-lyrics-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - Hallelujah by MaMuse song lyrics and storytelling in small groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Hallelujah-by-MaMuse-song-Lyrics-www.lifesjourney.us-March-2026-a.pdf" title="Hallelujah by MaMuse – song Lyrics – www.lifesjourney.us – March 2026 a"] . To download click here: YouTube Video Link: Hallelujah - [Trust Amidst Turmoil by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/trust-amidst-turmoil-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Trust Amidst Turmoil by Dr. Michael Obsatz . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Trust-Amidst-Turmoil-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-March-2026.pdf" title="Trust Amidst Turmoil by Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2026"] . To download click here: - [Why Do You Do What You Do?](https://lifesjourney.us/why-do-you-do-what-you-do/) - Why Do You Do What You Do? By David Tillman Who influenced you to do what you are doing? Close your eyes, take a few breaths, and let your mind relax. In your mind, effortlessly allow the name, and/or face, of a person who has influenced the way you live your life. A family member, - [Stress Management by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/stress-management-by-david-j-decker/) - Stress Management by David J. Decker . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/StressManagement.pdf"] . To download click here: - [The Heart Knows No Gender by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/the-heart-knows-no-gender-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - The Heart Knows No Gender by Dr. Michael Obsatz . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/The-Heart-Knows-No-Gender-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-March-2026.pdf" title="The Heart Knows No Gender by Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2026"] . To download click here: - [Write Your "I Want to Do Letter"](https://lifesjourney.us/write-your-i-want-to-do-letter/) - Write Your “I Want to Do Letter” A Simple Way to Get What You Want Through Personal Reflection and a Community of Supporting, Encouraging, and Compassionate People By David Tillman – January 2023, rev. 2024 . Here’s an easy way to do what you want to do and keep balance in life. Simply write a - [Grab Bar - Lean On Me by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/grab-bar-lean-on-me-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Grab Bar (Lean on Me) By Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 2026 . After a fall on an uneven cement sidewalk, an X-ray showed I had fractured my patella (part of my knee). I was in no pain but was unable to walk. I had hardly any strength in my leg and could not balance - [This Listening Exercise Could Change Your Life - Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/this-listening-exercise-could-change-your-life-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - This Listening Exercise Could Change Your Life Storytelling in Small Groups Storytelling in small groups or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Listening-David-Tillman-Quotation-and-Exercise-2022-rev-2026.pdf" title="Listening – David Tillman Quotation and Exercise – 2022 rev 2026"] To download click here: - [Mike Obsatz's PorchTalks Introduction](https://lifesjourney.us/dr-michael-obsatz-porchtalks-introduction/) - Mike Obsatz’s PorchTalks Introduction Mike Obsatz introduces his PorchTalks. Mike states, “I am sharing with you some of the things that I have learned over my eighty years of education and growing up. My hope is to help make the world better, one person at a time, by having people be more in tune with - [Love Heals the World by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/love-heals-the-world-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Love Heals the World by Dr. Michael Obsatz Mike talks about “the world’s pain, where it comes from and what happens, and what we can do about it. The need for love and spiritual connection as a way to overcome all this pain.”YouTube link: https://youtu.be/T2WEYzn14-Q [pdf-embedder url=”https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Love-Heals-the-World-2022-video-summary-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-February-2026.pdf” title=”Love Heals the World – 2022 video summary - [Why Kids are Hurting - video](https://lifesjourney.us/why-kids-are-hurting/) - by Dr. Michael Obsatz - 2014 In this video, Dr. Michael Obsatz talks about why kids are hurting these days. He talks about three things that are important for a child to learn: Learn how they operate on the inside - internal awareness Understand how the world works, such as power, competition, organizations, coping with - [Mike Obsatz's Porch and Fireside Talks Videos](https://lifesjourney.us/collection-of-videos-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Mike Obsatz’s Porch, Fireside, and Interviews Video Talks In these YouTube videos, Mike states “I am sharing with you some of the things that I have learned over my eighty years of education and growing up. My hope is to help make the world better, one person at a time, by having people be more - [Love Heals the World video summary by Dr. Michael Obsatz - Feb. 2026](https://lifesjourney.us/love-heals-the-world-video-summary-by-dr-michael-obsatz-feb-2026/) - Love Heals the World video summary by Dr. Michael Obsatz https://youtu.be/T2WEYzn14-Q [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Love-Heals-the-World-2022-video-summary-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-February-2026.pdf" title="Love Heals the World – 2022 video summary by Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 2026"] To download click here: [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Love-Heals-the-World-video-handout-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-February.-2026.pdf" title="Love Heals the World video handout by Dr. Michael Obsatz – February. 2026"] To download click here: [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Love-Heals-the-World-video-Journaling-Pages-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-February-2026.pdf" title="Love Heals - [Ramble On by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/ramble-on-by-dan-ofstedal/) - Ramble On by Dan Ofstedal [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Ramble-On-by-Dan-Ofstedal-Feb.-2026.pdf" title="Ramble On by Dan Ofstedal – Feb. 2026"] To download click here: - [Spread Love Like Manure by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/spread-love-like-manure-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Spread Love Like Manure by Dr. Michael Obsatz [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Spread-Love-Like-Manure-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-February-2026.pdf" title="Spread Love Like Manure by Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 2026"] - [Choosing Our Battles by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/choosing-our-battles-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Choosing Our Battles By Dr. Michael Obsatz [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Choosing-Our-Battles-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-January-2026.pdf" title="Choosing Our Battles by Dr. Michael Obsatz – January 2026"] . To download click here: - [An Apology to David Gates and Bread by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/an-apology-to-david-gates-and-bread-by-dan-ofstedal/) - An Apology to David Gates and Bread by Dan Ofstedal [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/An-Apology-to-David-Gates-and-Bread-by-Dan-Ofstedal-Feb.-2026.pdf" title="An Apology to David Gates and Bread by Dan Ofstedal – Feb. 2026"] . To download click here: - [The Cycles of Shame and Empowerment by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/the-cycles-of-shame-and-empowerment-by-david-j-decker/) - The Cycles of Shame and Empowerment by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/CyclesOfShameEmpowerment.pdf" title="CyclesOfShame&Empowerment"] . To download click here: - [An Elegy for My Sister Anne by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/an-elegy-for-my-sister-anne-by-dan-ofstedal/) - An Elegy for My Sister Anne - And a Love Letter to My Mom By Dan Ofstedal [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/An-Elegy-for-My-Sister-Anne-by-Dan-Ofstedal-Jan-2026.pdf" title="An Elegy for My Sister Anne by Dan Ofstedal – Jan 2026"] - [Summary of IN THE ABSENCE OF THE ORDINARY by Francis Weller](https://lifesjourney.us/summary-of-in-the-absence-of-the-ordinary-book-by-francis-weller/) - Summary of IN THE ABSENCE OF THE ORDINARY by Francis Weller [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Summary-of-In-the-Absence-of-the-Ordinary-book-by-Francis-Weller.pdf" title="Summary of In the Absence of the Ordinary book by Francis Weller"] . To download click here: - [Storytelling with Family Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/storytelling-with-family/) - Storytelling with Family Menu Family Life can get so busy that we never sit down and have conversations with family members. Below are some family conversation starters. They include a quotation around a topic, like “gratitude”, and then three prompts to start and guide your conversation. Feel free to create your own storytelling with family - [Storytelling about Aging Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/storytelling-about-aging-menu/) - Storytelling about Aging MenuAging is a part of life. We all acknowledge and deal with our aging in different ways. Here are some quotations and insights about aging. Use these in small group discussions, one-on-one conversations, or personal reflection. Francis Weller Quotation on Gratitude Storytelling about Grief and Loss “Gratitude furthers the soul and calls - [Storytelling about Grief and Loss Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/storytelling-about-grief-and-loss-menu/) - Storytelling about Grief and Loss MenuGrief and loss are a part of life. We all acknowledge and deal with our grief in different ways. Here are some quotations and insights about grief and loss. Use these in small group discussions, one-on-one conversations, or personal reflection.Speaker and author Ted Bowman talks about grief as that space - [Francis Weller Quotation on Gratitude - Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/francis-weller-quotation-on-gratitude-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - Francis Weller Quotation on Gratitude - Storytelling in Small Groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Francis-Weller-Gratitude-Storytelling-about-Grief-and-Loss-Jan.-2026-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Francis Weller – Gratitude – Storytelling about Grief and Loss – Jan. 2026 – www.lifesjourney.us"] . To download click here: - [TRIGGER-Pulling: Shoot to Disarm, or Shoot to Kill? by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/trigger-pulling-shoot-to-disarm-or-shoot-to-kill-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - TRIGGER Pulling: Shoot to Disarm, or Shoot to Kill? By Dr. Michael Obsatz [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/TRIGGER-Pulling-Shoot-to-Disarm-or-Shoot-to-Kill-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-January-2026.pdf" title="TRIGGER – Pulling – Shoot to Disarm or Shoot to Kill by Dr. Michael Obsatz – January 2026"] . To download click here: - [For Grief by John O'Donohue](https://lifesjourney.us/for-grief-by-john-odonohue/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/For-Grief-John-O-Donohue-poem-Storytelling-about-Grief-and-Loss-Jan.-2026.pdf" title="For Grief – John O-Donohue poem – Storytelling about Grief and Loss – Jan. 2026"] . To download click here: - [Try Meditation to Relax and Find Inner Peace](https://lifesjourney.us/try-meditation-to-relax-and-find-inner-peace/) - Try Meditation to Relax and Find Inner Peace By David Tillman – July 2020, rev. 2026 Meditation is a way to shift your attention from the outside world to the silence within you. Meditation allows your mind and body to rest and rejuvenate. Often, after meditation, one feels more connected to God, yourself, others, and - [Unconditional by Jennifer Welwood](https://lifesjourney.us/unconditional-by-jennifer-welwood/) - Unconditional By Jennifer Welwood [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Jennifer-Welwood-Unconditional-poem-Storytelling-about-Grief-and-Loss-Jan.-2026.pdf" title="Jennifer Welwood – Unconditional poem – Storytelling about Grief and Loss – Jan. 2026"] . To download click here: - [Oh Grow Up: Unhook from Your Biological Family](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-unhook-from-your-biological-family/) - Oh, Grow Up: Unhook from Your Biological Family – Task 1“Oh, Grow Up” by Dr. Michael ObsatzReflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url=”https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Oh-Grow-Up-Unhook-from-your-Biological-or-Adopted-Family-Dr-Michael-Obsatz-www.lifesjourney.us-January-2021.pdf” title=”Oh Grow Up – Unhook from your Biological or Adopted Family – Dr Michael Obsatz – www.lifesjourney.us – January 2021″] Oh Grow Up – Unhook from Your - [Creating a Haven of Safety By Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/creating-a-haven-of-safety-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Creating a Haven of Safety By Dr. Michael Obsatz . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Creating-a-Haven-of-Safety-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Dec.-2025.pdf" title="Creating a Haven of Safety by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Dec. 2025"] . To download click here: - [Taunting is Daunting: The Perils of Childhood Bullying by Dr. Michael Obsatz - video talk](https://lifesjourney.us/taunting-is-daunting-the-perils-of-childhood-bullying-by-dr-michael-obsatz-video-talk/) - Taunting is Daunting: The Perils of Childhood Bullying by Dr. Michael Obsatz – October 2025 Bullying in America is at epidemic levels. Hundreds of thousands of children and adults experience bullying every day. There is physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, neglect, violence, and shaming. Dr. Mike Obsatz, Professor Emeritus, believes the pain and suffering are not - [Summary of On Death and Dying book by Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross](https://lifesjourney.us/summary-of-on-death-and-dying-book-by-elisabeth-kubler-ross/) - Summary of On Death and Dying book by Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/2-page-Summary-of-On-Death-and-Dying-by-Elisabeth-Kubler-Ross-Nov.-2025-a.pdf" title="2-page Summary of On Death and Dying by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross – Nov. 2025 a"] . To download click here: [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Summary-of-On-Death-and-Dying-by-Elisabeth-Kubler-Ross-Nov.-2025-a.pdf" title="Summary of On Death and Dying by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross – Nov. 2025 a"] . To download click here: [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Expanded-Summary-of-On-Death-and-Dying-by-Elisabeth-Kubler-Ross-Nov.-2025-a.pdf" title="Expanded - [The Five Stages of Dying - Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-five-stages-of-dying-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - The Five Stages of Dying by Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross Storytelling in Small Groups about Grief and Loss Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/The-Five-Stages-of-Dying-by-Elisabeth-Kubler-Ross-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="The Five Stages of Dying by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross – Storytelling in Small Groups – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: Link to Summary of - [Our Burden Is Light by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/our-burden-is-light-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Our Burden is Light By Dr. Michael Obsatz . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Our-Burden-is-Light-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Dec.-2025.pdf" title="Our Burden is Light by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Dec. 2025"] . To download click here: - [Kubler-Ross – Five Stages of Dying](https://lifesjourney.us/kubler-ross-five-stages-of-dying/) - Elisabeth Kubler-Ross: Five Stages of Dying Elisabeth Kubler-Ross M.D. did a study in the mid to late 1960’s of patients and family of patients who were diagnosed with life-threating illness’s that would end in death. She was “trying to outline the changes that have taken place in the last few decades, [1950’s and 1960’s] changes - [Rear View Wisdom - Who’s Driving Your Car? by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/rear-view-wisdom-whos-driving-your-car-by-dan-ofstedal/) - Rear View Wisdom - Who’s Driving Your Car? by Dan Ofstedal . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Rear-View-Wisdom-by-Dan-Ofstedal-Dec.-2025.pdf" title="Rear View Wisdom by Dan Ofstedal – Dec. 2025"] . To download click here: - [Summary of Loving What Is by Byron Katie](https://lifesjourney.us/summary-of-loving-what-is-by-byron-katie/) - Summary of Loving What Is by Byron Katie [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Summary-of-Loving-What-Is-by-Byron-Katie-Dec.-2025a.pdf" title="Summary of Loving What Is by Byron Katie – Dec. 2025a"] . To download click here: - [Perfectly Human by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/perfectly-human-by-dan-ofstedal/) - Perfectly Human Perfect Wisdom Can Flow Through Imperfect Teachers By Dan Ofstedal - December 2025 . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Perfectly-Human-by-Dan-Ofstedal-Dec.-2025.pdf" title="Perfectly Human by Dan Ofstedal – Dec. 2025"] To download click here: - [The World According to Byron Katie - Part 1 by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/the-world-according-to-byron-katie-part-1-by-dan-ofstedal/) - The World According to Byron Katie, Part 1 By Dan Ofstedal [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/The-World-According-to-Byron-Katie-Part-1-by-Dan-Ofstedal-Nov.-2025-a.pdf" title="The World According to Byron Katie – Part 1 by Dan Ofstedal – Nov. 2025-a"] To download click here: - [Tis the Season of Inspiration Fascination and Anticipation by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/tis-the-season-of-inspiration-fascination-and-anticipation-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - 'Tis the Season of Inspiration, Fascination and Anticipation by Dr. Michael Obsatz - December 2025 . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tis-the-Season-of-Inspiration-Fascination-and-Anticipation-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Dec.-2025a.pdf" title="Tis the Season of Inspiration Fascination and Anticipation by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Dec. 2025a"] . To download click here: - [Books to Learn More About Anger Issues](https://lifesjourney.us/books-to-learn-more-about-anger-issues/) - Books to Learn More About Anger Issues By David J. Decker . Embracing the Dark Side: Learning to Recognize and Transform the Anger Within and Around You - Browse Table of Contents (1987; last revised in October 2017) by David J. Decker (special order from David J. Decker or order an e-book/book version from Amazon - [The World According to Byron Katie - Part 2 by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/the-world-according-to-byron-katie-part-2-by-dan-ofstedal/) - The World According to Byron Katie, Part 2 By Dan Ofstedal [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/The-World-According-to-Byron-Katie-Part-2-by-Dan-Ofstedal-Dec.-2025-b.pdf" title="The World According to Byron Katie – Part 2 by Dan Ofstedal – Dec. 2025 b"] To download click here: - [Summary of Life Is Goodbye Life Is Hello by Alla Renee Bozarth](https://lifesjourney.us/summary-of-life-is-goodbye-life-is-hello-by-alla-renee-bozarth/) - Summary of Life Is Goodbye Life Is Hello by Alla Renee Bozarth . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Summary-of-Life-Is-Goodbye-Life-Is-Hello-by-Alla-Renee-Bozarth-Dec.-2025.pdf" title="Summary of Life Is Goodbye Life Is Hello by Alla Renée Bozarth – Dec. 2025"]. . To download click here: - [WHERE IS THE MESSIAH WHEN WE NEED ONE? by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/where-is-the-messiah-when-we-need-one-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - We are the Ones: WHERE IS THE MESSIAH WHEN WE NEED ONE? By Dr. Michael Obsatz – November 2025 [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/WHERE-IS-THE-MESSIAH-WHEN-WE-NEED-ONE-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-a.pdf" title="WHERE IS THE MESSIAH WHEN WE NEED ONE – by Dr. Michael Obsatz a"] . To download click here: - [Summary of Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life by Richard Rohr](https://lifesjourney.us/summary-of-falling-upward-a-spirituality-for-the-two-halves-of-life-by-richard-rohr/) - Summary of Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life by Richard Rohr . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Summary-of-Falling-Upward-A-Spirituality-for-the-Two-Halves-of-Life-by-Richard-Rohr.pdf" title="Summary of Falling Upward – A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life by Richard Rohr"] . To download click here: - [Summary of Sacred Earth, Sacred Soul by John Philip Newell](https://lifesjourney.us/summary-of-sacred-earth-sacred-soul-by-john-philip-newell/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Summary-of-Sacred-Earth-Sacred-Soul-by-John-Philip-Newell-Nov.-2025.pdf" title="Summary of Sacred Earth – Sacred Soul by John Philip Newell – Nov. 2025"] . To download click here: - [Summary of The Wild Edge of Sorrow by Francis Weller](https://lifesjourney.us/summary-of-the-wild-edge-of-sorrow-by-francis-weller/) - . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Summary-of-The-Wild-Edge-of-Sorrow-by-Francis-Weller.pdf" title="Summary of The Wild Edge of Sorrow by Francis Weller"] To download click here: - [Ways for Foster Parents and Their Family to Grieve and Care for Themselves...](https://lifesjourney.us/ways-for-foster-parents-and-their-family-to-grieve-and-care-for-themselves/) - Ways for Foster Parents and Their Family to Grieve and Care for Themselves When They Say Goodbye to a ChildThey Love and Cared For.[pdf-embedder url=”https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Ways-for-Foster-Parents-and-Their-Family-to-Grieve-and-Care-for-Themselves-Sept.-2025-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf” title=”Ways for Foster Parents and Their Family to Grieve and Care for Themselves Sept. 2025 – www.lifesjourney.us”]r url=”https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Ways-for-Foster-Parents-and-Their-Family-to-Grieve-and-Care-for-Themselves-Sept.-2025-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf” title=”Ways for Foster Parents and Their Family to Grieve and Care for - [Have We Forgotten our Pledge of Allegiance? by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/have-we-forgotten-our-pledge-of-allegiance-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Have We Forgotten Our Pledge of Allegiance? "One Nation, Under God, Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for All" By Dr. Michael Obsatz – November 2025 [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Have-We-Forgotten-our-Pledge-of-Allegiance-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Nov.-2025.pdf" title="Have We Forgotten our Pledge of Allegiance by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Nov. 2025"] . To download click here: - [The Fatherly Heart: Involved Fatherhood as Spiritual Practice](https://lifesjourney.us/the-fatherly-heart-involved-fatherhood-as-spiritual-practice/) - The Fatherly Heart: Involved Fatherhood as Spiritual Practice by Dr. Michael Obsatz – June 2021Raising emotionally, physically and spiritually healthy sons and daughters is a crucial enterprise in creating a world of peace, love, and compassion.Youtube link: https://youtu.be/LlfNYBgLhLk [pdf-embedder url=”https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Summary-of-The-Fatherly-Heart-video-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-June-2021.pdf” title=”Summary of The Fatherly Heart video by Dr. Michael Obsatz – June 2021″] To download - [Jesus Christ Superstar by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/jesus-christ-superstar-by-dan-ofstedal/) - Jesus Christ Superstar "Every time I look at you I don't understand..." by Dan Ofstedal - November 2025 [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Jesus-Christ-Superstar-by-Dan-Ofstedal-November-2025.pdf" title="Jesus Christ Superstar – by Dan Ofstedal – November 2025"] . To download click here: - [Control Redux - How to Let Go and Take Charge by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/control-redux-how-to-let-go-and-take-charge-by-dan-ofstedal/) - Control Redux - How to Let Go and Take Charge By Dan Ofstedal - November 2025 [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Control-Redux-How-to-Let-Go-and-Take-Charge-by-Dan-Ofstedal-November-2025-a.pdf" title="Control Redux – How to Let Go and Take Charge by Dan Ofstedal – November 2025 a"] . To download click here: - [Summary of The Rebirthing of God by John Philip Newell](https://lifesjourney.us/summary-of-the-rebirthing-of-god-by-john-philip-newell/) - Summary of The Rebirthing of God: Christianity's Struggle for New Beginnings Book by John Philip Newell using ChatGPT to summarize [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Summary-of-book-The-Rebirthing-of-God-by-John-Philip-Newell-October-2025.pdf" title="Summary of book – The Rebirthing of God by John Philip Newell – October 2025"] - [Beyond Revolution: Revelation by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/beyond-revolution-revelation-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Beyond Revolution: Revelation By Dr. Michael Obsatz – October 2025 . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Beyond-Revolution-Revelation-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Oct.-2025-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Beyond Revolution – Revelation by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Oct. 2025 – www.lifesjourney.us"] - [Taunting Is Daunting: The Perils of Childhood Bullying by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/taunting-is-daunting-the-perils-of-childhood-bullying-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Taunting Is Daunting: The Perils of Childhood Bullying... By Dr. Michael Obsatz – October 2025 [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Taunting-Is-Daunting-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Oct.-2025.pdf" title="Taunting Is Daunting by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Oct. 2025"]. . To download click here: . Dr. Obsatz's Video Talk on Taunting is Daunting: The Perils of Childhood Bullying: Link: https://lifesjourney.us/taunting-is-daunting-the-perils-of-childhood-bullying-by-dr-michael-obsatz-video-talk/ https://lifesjourney.us/taunting-is-daunting-the-perils-of-childhood-bullying-by-dr-michael-obsatz-video-talk/ - [In the Beginning Was the Word - But not the concept by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/in-the-beginning-was-the-word-but-not-the-concept-by-dan-ofstedal/) - In the Beginning Was the Word But not the concept By Dan Ofstedal - October 20, 2025 . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/In-the-Beginning-Was-the-Word-But-not-the-concept-by-Dan-Ofstedal-October-2025.pdf" title="In the Beginning Was the Word – But not the concept by Dan Ofstedal – October 2025"] . To download click here: - [Ways of Self-Care at Times of Grief and Loss](https://lifesjourney.us/ways-of-self-care-at-times-of-grief-and-loss/) - Ways of Self-Care at Times of Grief and Loss [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ways-of-Self-Care-at-Times-of-Grief-and-Loss-David-Tillman-www.lifesjouney.us_.pdf" title="Ways of Self-Care at Times of Grief and Loss – David Tillman – www.lifesjouney.us"] . To download click here: - [Empire vs Unity Consciousness with Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/empire-vs-unity-consciousness-with-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Empire vs Unity Consciousnesswith Dr. Michael ObsatzWarrior Evolution Season 1 Episode 6Dan Gorbunow, on his podcast, interviews Dr. Michael Obsatz in February 2022.“There is a dominant paradigm at work in our consciousness as men, as human beings, that needs to be examined, interrupted, and challenged if healing progress is to be made in ourselves and - [Francis Weller: The Five Gates of Grief - Storytelling about Grief and Loss](https://lifesjourney.us/francis-weller-the-five-gates-of-grief-storytelling-about-grief-and-loss/) - Francis Weller: The Five Gates of Grief Storytelling about Grief and Loss [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Francis-Weller-The-Five-Gates-of-Grief-Storytelling-about-Grief-and-Loss-October-2025-c-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Francis Weller – The Five Gates of Grief – Storytelling about Grief and Loss – October 2025 c – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Francis-Weller-Inspired-Grief-Reflection-Guide-October-2025-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Francis Weller Inspired Grief Reflection Guide – October 2025 – www.lifesjourney.us"] . To download click - [Oh, Grow Up - Storytelling In Small Groups Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-storytelling-menu/) - "Oh, Grow Up" - Storytelling in Small Groups Menu Reflections and prompts from “Oh, Grow Up” by Dr. Michael Obsatz Link to "Oh, Grow Up" video, booklet, summary and reflection summary/journal, and guidebook Unhook from Your Biological Family Task 1 "Unhook from your biological family's definition of who you are and should be. This means - [Oh, Grow Up Video Talk Summary by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-video-talk-summary-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Oh, Grow Up Video Talk Summary by Dr. Michael Obsatz - October 2025 [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Summary-of-Oh-Grow-Up-article-and-video-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Oct.-2025.pdf" title="Summary of Oh Grow Up article and video by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Oct. 2025"] To download click here: . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Detailed-Summary-of-Oh-Grow-Up-article-and-video-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Oct.-2025.pdf" title="Detailed Summary of Oh Grow Up article and video by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Oct. 2025"] To download - [The Freedom of Forgiveness - And the Prison of Hate by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/the-freedom-of-forgiveness-and-the-prison-of-hate-by-dan-ofstedal/) - The Freedom of Forgiveness - And the Prison of Hate by Dan Ofstedal [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/The-Freedom-of-Forgiveness-And-the-Prison-of-Hate-by-Dan-Ofstedal-October-2025.pdf" title="The Freedom of Forgiveness – And the Prison of Hate by Dan Ofstedal – October 2025"] . To download click here: - [Aging Grace-Fully - Session Three](https://lifesjourney.us/aging-grace-fully-session-three/) - Aging Grace-Fully – Session ThreeA New Vision for AgingDavid Tillman – December 2011 “Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. (Psalm 37:4 – NIV) “Age is the antidote to personal destruction, the call to spiritual growth because age finally brings us to the point where there is - [Aging Grace-Fully - Session Two](https://lifesjourney.us/aging-grace-fully-session-two/) - Aging Grace-Fully - Session TwoA New Vision for Aging by David Tillman - October 2020 Acknowledging God’s transformation through how we show up in our world, which includes acceptance, letting go, inner peace, forgiveness, connecting, and trusting. “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.’ - [Aging Grace-Fully - Session One](https://lifesjourney.us/aging-grace-fully-session-one/) - Aging Grace-Fully - Session One A New Vision for Aging by David Tillman - September 2020Acknowledging that time has changed who we are, how we are, and how others see us, is a process we all go through in our lives. “Grey hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life” (Proverbs - [Why Do You Believe What You Believe?](https://lifesjourney.us/why-do-you-believe-what-you-believe/) - Why Do You Believe What You Believe? by David Tillman – October 2022 . We did an exercise at a recent church confirmation class that I found insightful. The question was, “What are the sources of your and others’ beliefs? We shared our ideas in a group discussion. Our minister then introduced John Wesley’s (Methodist - [In Defense of Humility - And I'm Right About This by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/in-defense-of-humility-and-im-right-about-this-by-dan-ofstedal/) - In Defense of Humility - And I'm Right About This by Dan Ofstedal [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/In-Defense-of-Humility-And-Im-Right-About-This-by-Dan-Ofstedal-Sept.-2025.pdf" title="In Defense of Humility – And Im Right About This – by Dan Ofstedal – Sept. 2025"] To download click here: - [Summary of "Overcoming Shame Through Self-Love" video talk by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/summary-of-overcoming-shame-through-self-love-video-talk-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Summary-of-Overcoming-Shame-Through-Self-Love-video-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Sept.-2025.pdf" title="Summary of Overcoming Shame Through Self Love video by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Sept. 2025"] . To download click here: . To watch Dr. Michael Obsatz' "Overcoming Shame Through Self-Love" video talk: YouTube Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=epcx3YEzxig . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Detailed-Summary-of-Overcoming-Shame-Through-Self-Love-video-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Sept.-2025.pdf" title="Detailed Summary of Overcoming Shame Through Self Love video by Dr. Michael Obsatz – - [Overcoming Shame through Self-Love](https://lifesjourney.us/overcoming-shame-through-self-love/) - Overcoming Shame Through Self-Love – video by Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2021 In this video, Mike talks about what shame is, how shame develops, how shame affects people, types of shame, what we can do about it now, and how we change it. “Shame is the feeling of not feeling good enough, having something - [Breaking the Abandonment/Shame/Control/Destruction Cycle](https://lifesjourney.us/breaking-the-abandonment-shame-control-destruction-cycle/) - Breaking the Abandonment/Shame/Control/Destruction Cycle By Dr. Michael Obsatz – September 2025 . We all know people who are controlling, who are obsessed with being and maintaining control at all costs. They include people from all cultures, races, religions, sexual orientations, genders, and classes. When this issue becomes frightening is when those in important leadership roles - [Thought Provoking Quotations Small Group Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/thought-provoking-quotations-for-small-group-storytelling/) - Thought Provoking Quotations Small Group Menu Thoughtful quotations to foster small group discussions or personal reflection. Clearing by Martha Postlethwaite For Storytelling “Do not try to save the whole world or do anything grandiose. Instead, create a clearing in the dense forest of your life and wait there patiently, until the song that is - [Story Telling in Small Groups about Spirituality and Religion](https://lifesjourney.us/storytelling-about-spirituality-and-religion/) - Storytelling about Spirituality and Religion MenuSpirituality and religion helps us make meaning of our lives, our faith, understanding grace, our relationship with God (Creator, Spirit, ...), our relationship with others and creation, our purpose, and how we learn and live ethically. We all acknowledge and make meaning in different ways. Here are some quotations and - [Famous Quotations Small Group Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/famous-quotations-small-group-menu/) - Famous Quotations Small Group Menu Famous Quotations Reflection and Prompts for Small Groups or Personal Reflection Mary Oliver Poem For Storytelling “Come with me into the field of sunflowers. Their faces are burnished disks, their dry spines creak like ship masts, their green leaves, so heavy and many, fill all day with the sticky..." Click - [The Paradox of Control ... and the Damage Done by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/the-paradox-of-control-and-the-damage-done-by-dan-ofstedal/) - The Paradox of Control ... and the Damage Done by Dan Ofstedal - September 20, 2025 [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/The-Paradox-of-Control-.-and-the-Damage-Done-by-Dan-Ofstedal-Sept.-2025.pdf" title="The Paradox of Control … and the Damage Done by Dan Ofstedal – Sept. 2025"] To download click here: - [How To Carry Stress Without Letting It Drive by Gwen Payne](https://lifesjourney.us/how-to-carry-stress-without-letting-it-drive-by-gwen-payne/) - How to Carry Stress Without Letting It Drive By Gwen Payne - September 2025 . Stress doesn’t knock. It barges in. It finds you in traffic, buried in inboxes, mid-thought, mid-sentence. Once it’s in, it rewires your focus, scrambles your energy, and muffles the quiet instincts that signal safety. People say “reduce stress,” but what - [Men's and Boys' Pain and Isolation: Empire Consciousness and Spiritual Solutions](https://lifesjourney.us/mens-and-boys-pain-and-isolation-empire-consciousness-and-spiritual-solutions/) - Men’s and Boys’ Pain and Isolation: Empire Consciousness and Spiritual Solutions by Dr. Michael Obsatz – August 2021 . “What happens to boys as they are growing up and how do they become men? What kind of men do they become and what happens to them as they grow older? I am going to start - [Summary of Men's and Boys' Pain and Isolation Video Talk by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/summary-of-mens-and-boys-pain-and-isolation-video-talk-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Summary of Men's and Boys' Pain and Isolation: Empire Consciousness and Spiritual Solutions Video Talk by Dr. Michael Obsatz - September 2025 [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Summary-of-Mens-and-Boys-Pain-and-Isolation-Empire-Consciousness-and-Spiritual-Solutions-Video-Talk-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Sept.-2025.pdf" title="Summary of Mens and Boys Pain and Isolation Empire Consciousness and Spiritual Solutions Video Talk by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Sept. 2025"] To download click here: . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Mens-and-Boys-Pain-and-Isolation-Handout-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Sept.-2025.pdf" title="Mens and - [Mere Partisans – More Common Ground – Less Battleground by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/mere-partisans-more-common-ground-less-battleground-by-dan-ofstedal/) - Mere Partisans More Common Ground – Less Battleground by Dan Ofstedal [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Mere-Partisans-More-Common-Ground-Less-Battleground-by-Dan-Ofstedal-September-15-2025.pdf" title="Mere Partisans – More Common Ground – Less Battleground by Dan Ofstedal – September 15 2025"] . To download click here: - [Jesus on Family and Freedom – On putting away childish things by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/jesus-on-family-and-freedom-on-putting-away-childish-things-by-dan-ofstedal/) - Jesus on Family and Freedom On putting away childish things by Dan Ofstedal [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Jesus-on-Family-and-Freedom-On-putting-away-childish-things-by-Dan-Ofstedal-August-29-2025.pdf" title="Jesus on Family and Freedom – On putting away childish things by Dan Ofstedal – August 29 2025"] . To download click here: - [Threading the Needle by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/threading-the-needle-by-dan-ofstedal/) - Threading the Needle Spiritual Freedom in a Consumer Culture by Dan Ofstedal [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Threading-the-Needle-by-Dan-Ofstedal-August-12-2025.pdf" title="Threading the Needle by Dan Ofstedal – August 12 2025"] . To download click here: - [The Gospel According to Led Zeppelin by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/the-gospel-according-to-led-zeppelin-by-dan-ofstedal/) - The Gospel According to Led Zeppelin "When All are One, and One is All" and Other Truths by Dan Ofstedal [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/The-Gospel-According-to-Led-Zeppelin-by-Dan-Ofstedal-September-8-2025.pdf" title="The Gospel According to Led Zeppelin by Dan Ofstedal – September 8 2025"] . To download click here: - [Socialized Abandonment for Men and Boys by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/socialized-abandonment-for-men-and-boys-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Socialized Abandonment for Men and Boys By Dr. Michael Obsatz – September 2025 . Herb Goldberg wrote, in The New Male (1979) that, "Women bend and men break. The blueprint for men to prove masculinity supersedes the instinct to survive." . In this essay, I am going to write about socialized abandonment for boys and - [The Gift with No Giver by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/the-gift-with-no-giver-by-dan-ofstedal/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/The-Gift-with-No-Giver-by-Dan-Ofstedal-August-18-2025.pdf" title="The Gift with No Giver by Dan Ofstedal – August 18 2025"] . To download click here: - [Sticks and Stones: The Freedom of Not Taking Things Personally by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/sticks-and-stones-the-freedom-of-not-taking-things-personally-by-dan-ofstedal/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Sticks-and-Stones-The-Freedom-of-Not-Taking-Things-Personally-by-Dan-Ofstedal-August-8-2025.pdf" title="Sticks and Stones – The Freedom of Not Taking Things Personally by Dan Ofstedal – August 8 2025"] . To download click here: - [On Becoming a Mystic by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/on-becoming-a-mystic-by-dan-ofstedal/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/On-Becoming-a-Mystic-by-Dan-Ofstedal-August-12-2025.pdf" title="On Becoming a Mystic by Dan Ofstedal – August 12 2025"] . To download click here: - [Quotation by Francis Weller and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/quotation-by-francis-weller-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Quotation-by-Francis-Weller-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-Sept.-2025-www.lifesjourney.us-2.pdf" title="Quotation by Francis Weller and Storytelling in Small Groups – Sept. 2025 – www.lifesjourney.us – 2"] . To download click here: - [Physical Health, Nutrition, and Exercise Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/physical-health-body-and-exercise-menu/) - Physical Health, Nutrition, and Exercise Menu Our thinking is influenced by our physical health and vitality. Healthy nutrition and regular exercise will have a positive impact on our lives. How do you maintain your physical well-being? How To Carry Stress Without Letting It Drive by Gwen Payne - September 2025 "Stress doesn’t knock. It barges - [You Can Lead a "Ways to Share Your Love" Small Group Course](https://lifesjourney.us/you-can-lead-a-ways-to-share-your-love-small-group-course/) - You Can Lead a "Ways to Share Your Love" Small Group Course Here is a course outline and other resources to help you create and lead a 3-month, 6-session course on “Ways to Share Your Love.” I hope this is helpful. Good Luck! . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/You-Can-Lead-a-Share-Your-Love-Small-Group-Gathering-Sept.-2025-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="You Can Lead a Share Your Love Small Group - [Denial, Distraction, and Destruction: Loving What Is?  What Would Jesus Do?](https://lifesjourney.us/denial-distraction-and-destruction-loving-what-is-what-would-jesus-do/) - Denial, Distraction, and Destruction: Loving What Is? What Would Jesus Do? By Dr. Michael Obsatz – September 2025 . When Jesus encountered anyone who was suffering, he reached out to help that person. He believed that pain was everywhere, and he was given the gift of healing. This is not accepting what is, it is - [In Order to be Born You Needed and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/in-order-to-be-born-you-needed-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - "In Order to be Born You Needed..." and Storytelling in Small Groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/In-Order-to-be-Born-You-Needed.-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-July-2024-www.lifesjourney.us-a.pdf" title="In Order to be Born You Needed… and Storytelling in Small Groups – July 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us a"] To download click here: - [Clearing by Martha Postlethwaite and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/clearing-by-martha-postlethwaite-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - Clearing by Martha Postlethwaite [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Clearing-by-Martha-Postlethwaite-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-Sept.-2025-www.lifesjourney.us-1.pdf" title="Clearing by Martha Postlethwaite and Storytelling in Small Groups – Sept. 2025 – www.lifesjourney.us -1"] . To download click here: - [Caregiving and Self-Care Guide](https://lifesjourney.us/caregiving-and-self-care-guide/) - Caregiving and Self-Care Guide [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Caregiving-and-Self-Care-Guide-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-and-David-Tillman-Sept.-2025.pdf" title="Caregiving and Self-Care Guide by Dr. Michael Obsatz and David Tillman – Sept. 2025"] . To download click here: - [If We Don't Embrace the Children, They Will Burn the Village Down](https://lifesjourney.us/if-we-dont-embrace-the-children-they-will-burn-the-village-down/) - If We Don't Embrace the Children, They Will Burn the Village Down from Malidoma Some (Burkina Faso) relating an African proverb [1] By Dr. Michael Obsatz – August 2025 . We created a documentary about mentoring boys called "Journeyman," in 20066, which was viewed by over 3 million people. [2] It was about the Boys to - [A Way to Lead a 3-Month, 6-Session In-Person or Online Small Group Gathering](https://lifesjourney.us/a-way-to-lead-a-3-month-6-session-in-person-or-online-small-group-gathering/) - A Way to Lead a 3-Month, 6-Session In-Person or Online Small Group Gathering [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/A-Way-to-Lead-a-3-Month-6-Session-In-Person-or-Online-Small-Group-Gathering-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="A Way to Lead a 3-Month 6-Session In-Person or Online Small Group Gathering – www.lifesjourney.us"] . To download click here: [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/A-Way-to-Create-a-Small-Group-Gathering-Flyer-Template-August-2025.pdf" title="A Way to Create a Small Group Gathering Flyer Template – August 2025"] . To download click here: - [From Trauma, to Trust, to Triumph - video](https://lifesjourney.us/from-trauma-to-trust-to-triumph-video/) - From Trauma, to Trust, to Triumph - videoby Dr. Michael Obsatz - 2017 Excerpts from the video: Trauma: “A trauma is a damage to the mind that occurs as a result of a severely distressing event. It is often from an amount of stress that exceeds a person’s ability to cope or integrate the emotions - [C.H.E.E.R. Us On](https://lifesjourney.us/c-h-e-e-r-u-s-o-n-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - https://youtu.be/4SYKlxihDuo C.H.E.E.R. Us On By Dr. Michael Obsatz – April 2023 We are here to CHEER each other on. We provide listening, support, suggestions, encouragement, and a safe space for others. In my life, many people have served as "cheerleaders" for me. They have reminded me of my gifts, encouraged me when difficult obstacles seem - [Original Awe: Unlocking Wonder by Dan Ofstedal](https://lifesjourney.us/original-awe-unlocking-wonder-by-dan-ofstedal/) - Original Awe: Unlocking Wonder By Dan Ofstedal - August 24, 2025 - 4 pages [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Original-Awe-Unlocking-Wonder-by-Dan-Ofstedal-August-24-2025-Copy.pdf" title="Original Awe – Unlocking Wonder by Dan Ofstedal – August 24 2025 – Copy"] . Used with permission by Dan Ofstedal, check out this and other of Dan’s writings at: https://danofstedal.substack.com/ . To download click here: - [We are Stardust: The Source of Our Power](https://lifesjourney.us/we-are-stardust-the-source-of-our-power/) - We are Stardust: The Source of Our Power By Dr. Michael Obsatz – August 2025 . We have the power to love, and the power to fear. We have the power to be compassionate, and the power to be self-absorbed. Where does this power come from? The Source of our power is the Source of - [Beyond the Exam Room: How Wellness and Medicine Are Merging Muscle to Muscle by Gwen Payne](https://lifesjourney.us/beyond-the-exam-room-how-wellness-and-medicine-are-merging-muscle-to-muscle-by-gwen-payne/) - Beyond the Exam Room: How Wellness and Medicine Are Merging Muscle to Muscle by Gwen Payne - August 2025 . In gyms, clinics, kitchens, and apps, something new is unfolding. The borders that once divided medicine, fitness, and wellness are blurring—slowly, then suddenly. Personal trainers are syncing with primary care teams. Dietitians are writing meal - [Jesus: A Wisdom Teacher Wisdom in Action - CAC - Richard Rohr Daily Meditation and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/jesus-a-wisdom-teacher-wisdom-in-action-cac-richard-rohr-daily-meditation-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Wisdom-in-Action-Richard-Rohr-Daily-Meditation-Aug.-8-2025-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups.pdf" title="Wisdom in Action – Richard Rohr Daily Meditation – Aug. 8 2025 and Storytelling in Small Groups"] . To download click here: - [The Four Life-Affirming Declarations of Interdependence - video](https://lifesjourney.us/the-four-life-affirming-declarations-of-interdependence-video/) - The Four Life-Affirming Declarations of Interdependence Video by Dr. Michael Obsatz The world can seem like a scary and hostile place sometimes. Life has many ups and downs, gains, and losses. We are inundated by messages of who we are supposed to be, and what we are supposed to do. These four life-affirming declarations allow - [THE ONLY WAY: Getting Rid of the Slums and the Homeless](https://lifesjourney.us/the-only-way-getting-rid-of-the-slums-and-the-homeless/) - THE ONLY WAY: Getting Rid of the Slums and the Homeless By Dr. Michael Obsatz – August 2025 . If we want to "get rid" of slums and homeless people, we have to ask ourselves a few questions: Who are these people? Where did they come from? Where are we going to send them? How - [Moving From Empire Consciousness to Oneness Consciousness - Video](https://lifesjourney.us/moving-from-empire-consciousness-to-oneness-consciousness-vide/) - By Dr. Michael Obsatz In this YouTube video, Dr. Michael Obsatz talks about moving from empire consciousness to oneness consciousness and starting with childhood abandonment issues and how it can lead to empire consciousness. Empire consciousness fosters the desire and want to dominate, control, oppress, and hurt other people. The solution is oneness consciousness which - [Healing Emotional Wounds Through Spiritual Transformation](https://lifesjourney.us/healing-emotional-wounds-through-spiritual-transformation/) - Healing Emotional Wounds Through Spiritual Transformation Video by Dr. Michael Obsatz - August 2023 At birth we know it. We are loved, lovable, and loving. Early emotional and physical wounding from families, peers, and the larger culture teaches us to feel unlovable. inadequate, and shameful. We are abandoned, neglected, and abused. Empire Consciousness is the - [Unleashing the Inner Voice - How Self Expression Cultivates Well-being and Empowerment](https://lifesjourney.us/unleashing-the-inner-voice-how-self-expression-cultivates-well-being-and-empowerment/) - Unleashing the Inner Voice: How Self-Expression Cultivates Well-being and Empowerment Photo via Adobe Stock In an era where stress and societal pressures often overshadow individuality, the power of self-expression emerges as a beacon of hope, leading to enhanced well-being and empowerment. This article hosted by Life’s Journey delves into the profound impact of self-expression on - [Catastrophic Thinking by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/catastrophic_thinking-by_dr_michael_obsatz/) - Catastrophic Thinking . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Catastrophic-Thinking-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Aug.-2025-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Catastrophic Thinking by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Aug. 2025 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Whelmed and Sheveled by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/whelmed-and-sheveled-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Whelmed and Sheveled By Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2025 . Sometimes I am overwhelmed. Sometimes I look disheveled, sloppy, and uncoordinated. Since negative words bring negative energy, I have been reminded not to use those nasty words. So now, when I dress neatly and am coordinated, I describe myself as "sheveled." When I - [The Real Magic: How Someone You Don't Know Changed Your Life](https://lifesjourney.us/the-real-magic-how-someone-you-dont-know-changed-your-life/) - The Real Magic: How Someone You Don't Know Changed Your Life By Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2025 I was hanging out with a long-term friend today. We started to talk about how we got to where we are in our lives. I'm 83, and she is 73. We met over forty years ago. - [Why is the World in Such a Mess? by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/why-is-the-world-in-such-a-mess-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Why-is-the-World-in-Such-a-Mess-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Aug.-2025.pdf" title="Why is the World in Such a Mess by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Aug. 2025"] . To download click here: - [Transforming Cultural Consciousness Through Living, Learning, and Loving - video by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/transforming-cultural-consciousness-through-living-learning-and-loving-video-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Transforming Cultural Consciousness ThroughLiving, Learning, and LovingVideo by Dr. Michael Obsatz.Dr. Michael Obsatz shares his insights and beliefs about authenticity, wholeness, love, compassion, and empathy. Trauma Consciousness (about childhood abandonment) leads to Empire Consciousness (about power, domination, control, and violence.) Oneness Consciousness (love, emotional and spiritual connection) is what can free us from our suffering - [Summary of Dr. Michael Obsatz' Interview -Healing Shame: Empire vs Unity Consciousness](https://lifesjourney.us/summary-of-dr-michael-obsatz-interview-healing-shame-empire-vs-unity-consciousness/) - Summary of Interview: Healing Shame: Empire vs Unity Consciousness . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Summary-of-the-interview-of-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Healing-Shame-Empire-vs-Unity-Consciousness-June-2025.pdf" title="Summary of the interview of Dr. Michael Obsatz – Healing Shame – Empire vs Unity Consciousness – June 2025"] . To download click here: . Link to YouTube Video: https://lifesjourney.us/healing-shame-empire-vs-unity-consciousness-the-wellness-warrior-podcast/ - [Summary of Dr. Michael Obsatz Interview: Healing Mistrust: Abandonment and Betrayal in Self and Society](https://lifesjourney.us/summary-of-dr-michael-obsatz-interview-healing-mistrust-abandonment-and-betrayal-in-self-and-society/) - Summary of Dr. Michael Obsatz' Interview: Healing Mistrust: Abandonment and Betrayal in Self and Society [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Summary-of-the-interview-of-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Healing-Mistrust-Abandonment-and-Betrayal-in-Self-and-Society-July-2025-rev1.pdf" title="Summary of the interview of Dr. Michael Obsatz – Healing Mistrust Abandonment and Betrayal in Self and Society – July 2025 -rev1"] . To download click here: . Link to YouTube Video: Healing Mistrust, Abandonment and Betrayal in - [Healing Shame - Empire vs. Unity Consciousness - The Wellness Warrior Podcast](https://lifesjourney.us/healing-shame-empire-vs-unity-consciousness-the-wellness-warrior-podcast/) - Healing Shame: Empire vs Unity Consciousness The Wellness Warrior Podcast - June 2025 “Dr. Michael Obsatz: So, the whole idea of empire has to do with scarcity and fear, there’s not enough to go around. We define ourselves by our differences instead of our oneness and our connectedness. So am I this kind of man, - [Healing Mistrust, Abandonment and Betrayal in Self and Society](https://lifesjourney.us/healing-mistrust-abandonment-and-betrayal-in-self-and-society/) - Healing Mistrust, Abandonment,and Betrayal in Self and SocietyThe Wellness Warrior Podcast – with Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2025. Dan Gorbunow: “What came up with your last conversation was issues around trust and then that triggered a flagging of this conversation for deeper exploration around that and how trust is broken. [1]Dr. Michael Obsatz: So, trust - [Lead a Three Month Course: "Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Sixties, Seventies, and Beyond."](https://lifesjourney.us/lead-a-three-month-course-ways-to-live-a-full-and-loving-life-in-your-sixties-seventies-and-beyond/) - Lead a Three-Month Course "Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Sixties, Seventies, and Beyond." . Here is a course outline and other resources to help you create and lead a 3-month, 6-session course on "Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Sixties, Seventies, and Beyond." I hope this - [Empire Consciousness: Necessary and Unnecessary Suffering](https://lifesjourney.us/empire-consciousness-necessary-and-unnecessary-suffering/) - Empire Consciousness: Necessary and Unnecessary Suffering By Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2025 Professor John Brantner was a brilliant faculty member at the University of Minnesota. When I was preparing to teach my "Death, Dying and Bereavement" class at Macalester College, I sat in on his "Death and Dying" class at his home - [Why I Don't Like the Word "Master"](https://lifesjourney.us/why-i-dont-like-the-word-master/) - Why I Don't Like the Word "Master" By Dr. Michael Obsatz – June 2025 . Mastery can be defined as having control over. To "master" some information is to know it thoroughly. But the term "Master" is sexist and racist. Think of Master and Slave. Think of Master and Mistress. To be a master is - [The Five Invitations](https://lifesjourney.us/the-five-invitations/) - The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us About Living Fully by Frank Ostaseski "Death is not waiting for us at the end of the road. Death is always with us, in the marrow of every passing moment. She is the secret teacher hiding in plain sight. She helps us discover what matters most. - [Ethnic Variations in Dying, Death and Grief – Diversity in Universality](https://lifesjourney.us/ethnic-variations-in-dying-death-and-grief-diversity-in-universality/) - Pastoral Care in Grief and Loss class - United Theological Seminary, MN Weekly Reflection Paper - David Tillman - November 7, 2013 Ethnic Variations in Dying, Death, and Grief – Diversity in Universality Edited by Donald P. Irish, Kathleen F. Lundquist, and Vivian Jenkins Nelson (Philadelphia: Taylor & Francis, 1990). p 51-162. Key issues: Mourning - [Small Group Meeting Process](https://lifesjourney.us/small-group-meeting-process/) - Small Group Meeting Process by David Tillman - 2021. Group sharing helps people connect in meaningful ways around common life stories. It provides attention, support, and opportunities for compassion and empathy. It is a way to move beyond false independence which often leads to isolation, pain, and loneliness. Decide on a time and place (face-to-face - [Seven Ways to Share Your Love](https://lifesjourney.us/seven-ways-to-share-your-love/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Seven-Ways-to-Share-Your-Love-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-and-David-Tillman-December-2024-rev.-June-2025.pdf" title="Seven Ways to Share Your Love by Dr. Michael Obsatz and David Tillman – December 2024 – rev. June 2025"] . To download click here: - [Twenty Teachings of a Holystic Mystic: All is Holy, All is Oneness](https://lifesjourney.us/twenty-teachings-of-a-holystic-mystic-all-is-holy-all-is-oneness/) - Twenty Teachings of a Holystic Mystic: All is Holy, All is Oneness By Dr. Michael Obsatz – May 2025 Here are twenty short sentences and phrases that help me get in touch with my spiritual connection to myself, all of humanity and all creatures, nature and the earth, and Spirit. We are all one. God - [Purpose, Mission, and Vision](https://lifesjourney.us/purpose-mission-and-vision-2/) - Part of planning a vacation is figuring out how to get from where we are to where we are going. Then it is about figuring out what we will do once we get there. Like this, understanding one’s purpose, mission, and vision in life gives direction and meaning to our life’s journey. What is your - [Live Boldly: Real Steps to Build Confidence and Hit Your Goals](https://lifesjourney.us/live-boldly-real-steps-to-build-confidence-and-hit-your-goals/) - Live Boldly: Real Steps to Build Confidence and Hit Your Goals By Gwen Payne - May 2025 . You don’t need to reinvent yourself to live a more confident life. You just need to start. Not next week. Not after you buy that planner or lose ten pounds. Today. The truth is, confidence doesn’t arrive - [Show You Care by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/show-you-care-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Show You Care By Dr. Michael Obsatz – May 2025 . My Dad used to say when I was a boy, "Words are cheap. It's your actions that matter." That stuck with me. So, the question is what can we do to further love, peace, joy, compassion, and harmony? Here are a few for your - ["Navigating Our Many Worlds" Model](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-our-many-worlds-model/) - “Navigating Our Many Worlds” Model Here is a model from “Navigating Our Many Worlds” by Dr. Michael Obsatz This model will give you a different perspective on all the many worlds we learn to navigate in life. Enjoy and embrace your amazing journey! “Navigating Our Many Worlds” Model 1 file(s) 544.08 KB Download Click here - [Free At Last - How Oneness Consciousness Overcomes The Trauma Empire Consciousness Loop](https://lifesjourney.us/free-at-last-how-oneness-consciousness-overcomes-the-trauma-empire-consciousness-loop/) - Free At Last: How Oneness Consciousness Overcomes The Trauma/Empire Consciousness Loop By Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2025 Early childhood abandonment, abuse, and neglect result in Trauma Consciousness. The infant/child feels out of control, and lives totally dependent on parents and caregivers. Without their support, the child will surely die. Alice Miller writes about - [Twelve Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Eighties by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/twelve-ways-to-live-a-full-and-loving-life-in-your-eighties-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Twelve Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Eighties [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Twelve-Ways-to-Live-a-Full-and-Loving-Life-in-Your-Eighties-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-March-2025-a.pdf" title="Twelve Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Eighties by Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2025 a"] . To download click here: . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Twelve-Ways-to-Live-a-Full-and-Loving-Life-in-Your-Eighties-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-2pp-.pdf" title="Twelve Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Eighties - [What Are All the Different Groups You Belong To?](https://lifesjourney.us/what-are-all-the-different-groups-you-belong-to/) - What Are All the Different Groups You Belong To? [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/What-Are-All-the-Different-Groups-You-Belong-To-overview-by-David-Tillman-Sept.-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="What Are All the Different Groups You Belong To overview by David Tillman – Sept. 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] . To download the overview above of writing the "What Are All the Different Groups You Belong To?" Example Worksheet: [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Example-What-Are-All-the-Different-Groups-You-Belong-To-Sept.-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Example – What - [Ten Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Seventies by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/ten-ways-to-live-a-full-and-loving-life-in-your-seventies-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Ten Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Seventies by Dr. Michael Obsatz . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Ten-Ways-to-Live-a-Full-and-Loving-Life-in-Your-Seventies-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-March-2025-a.pdf" title="Ten Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Seventies by Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2025 a"] . To download click here: - [Twelve Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life Your Whole Life Through](https://lifesjourney.us/twelve-ways-to-live-a-full-and-loving-life-your-whole-life-through/) - Twelve Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life Your Whole Life Through by Dr. Michael Obsatz - March 2025 . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Twelve-Ways-to-Live-a-Full-and-Loving-Life-Your-Whole-Life-Through-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-March-2025-.pdf" title="Twelve Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life Your Whole Life Through by Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2025"] . To download "Twelve Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life - [Education by Victor Hugo and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/education-by-victor-hugo-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - Education by Victor Hugo and Storytelling in Small Groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Education-by-Victor-Hugo-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-July-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Education by Victor Hugo and Storytelling in Small Groups – July 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Courage by Victor Hugo and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/courage-by-victor-hugo-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - Courage by Victor Hugo and Storytelling in Small Groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Courage-by-Victor-Hugo-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-July-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Courage by Victor Hugo and Storytelling in Small Groups – July 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Vocation Quotation by Parker Palmer and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/vocation-quotation-by-parker-palmer-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - Vocation Quotation by Parker Palmer and Storytelling in Small Groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Vocation-Quotation-by-Parker-J.-Palmer-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-May-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Vocation Quotation by Parker J. Palmer – Storytelling in Small Groups – May 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Twelve Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Sixties](https://lifesjourney.us/twelve-ways-to-live-a-full-and-loving-life-in-your-sixties/) - Twelve Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Sixties By Dr. Michael Obsatz and David Tillman - February 2025 . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Twelve-Ways-to-Live-a-Full-and-Loving-Life-in-Your-Sixties-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-and-David-Tillman-February-2025.pdf" title="Twelve Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Sixties by Dr. Michael Obsatz and David Tillman – February 2025"] . To download click here: . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Twelve-Ways-to-Live-a-Full-and-Loving-Life-in-Your-Sixties-with-Images-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-and-David-Tillman-March-2025.pdf" - [Cheap Grace, Expensive Grace, Expansive Grace by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/cheap-grace-expensive-grace-expansive-grace-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Cheap Grace, Expensive Grace, Expansive Grace By Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2025 . "I Forgive You. Now Go and Sin No More" Jesus shares one clear message about grace. Grace means that one is forgiven for negative, mean, or destructive actions by God, oneself, and other people. But that is not the end of - [Navigating Our Many Worlds](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-our-many-worlds/) - Navigating Our Many Worlds By Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 2021. We are amazingly adaptive and complex creatures. By the time we are old, we have navigated through many different worlds. THE WORLD OF ME — Who am I? We have personalities, temperaments and ways of being. Every person is unique, and part of - [We are NOT the World: Maintaining Internal Stability in an Unstable, Volatile World](https://lifesjourney.us/we-are-not-the-world-maintaining-internal-stability-in-an-unstable-volatile-world/) - We are NOT the World: Maintaining Internal Stability in an Unstable, Volatile World By Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 2025 . Since much of the world still lives in Empire Consciousness, there will always be instability all around us. Empire Consciousness focusses on fear, scarcity, power, mistrust, domination, violence, shame and hierarchy. These always lead to - [What Really Matters](https://lifesjourney.us/what-really-matters/) - What Really Matters by Dr. Michael Obsatz – May 2022 . Once a person reaches 80, life has a different feeling about it. What used to seem important seems much less important. Status, recognition, external signs of success -- these have or have not been achieved. But, something changes on the inside. A book about - [Loving, Creating and Letting Go](https://lifesjourney.us/loving-creating-and-letting-go/) - Loving, Creating and Letting Go By Dr. Michael Obsatz – May 2021. David Richo, in his book, "The Five Things We Cannot Change," tells us that everything changes and ends. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross reminds us that every little loss we experience is preparation for our ultimate loss of leaving everything, of dying. We have forever friends, - [Eight Variations of Maleness: Beyond Macho Masculinity](https://lifesjourney.us/eight-variations-of-maleness-beyond-macho-masculinity/) - Eight Variations of Maleness: Beyond Macho Masculinity By Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 2025 . "The masculine imperative, to prove manhood, supersedes the instinct to survive," states Herb Goldberg in The New Male, written decades ago. We have the typical idea of "real macho manhood", and it is filled with a variety of rules. Here - [The Meaning of Real Love: Caregiving as a "Sacred Opportunity"](https://lifesjourney.us/the-meaning-of-real-love-caregiving-as-a-sacred-opportunity/) - The Meaning of Real Love: Caregiving as a "Sacred Opportunity" By Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 14, 2025 Many of us will probably have times when we are called to take care of a loved one who is ill, or who has been hurt. It is a "sacred opportunity" to accept another person with - [Ten Ways to Move from Addiction to Recovery and Healing](https://lifesjourney.us/ten-ways-to-move-from-addiction-to-recovery-and-healing/) - Ten Ways to Move from Addiction to Recovery and Healing By Dr. Michael Obsatz – December 2024 [1] . Here are ten ways to help a person with addictions move into recovery and begin healing, from writings by Dr. Michael Obsatz. . Recognize the Underlying Pain and Trauma Addiction often stems from unhealed wounds, unresolved trauma, - [Writing "My Story" to Leave Your Written Legacy to Loved Ones](https://lifesjourney.us/writing-my-story-to-leave-your-written-legacy-to-loved-ones/) - Writing “My Story” to Leave Your Written Legacy to Loved Ones Would you treasure having a written, or videotaped, record from your parents telling about how they navigated through the many worlds they lived? Below is the outline for writing your own “My Story” to gift your written legacy to those you love. In the - [Seven Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Forties](https://lifesjourney.us/seven-ways-to-live-a-full-and-loving-life-in-your-forties/) - Seven Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Forties . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Seven-Ways-to-Live-a-Full-and-Loving-Life-in-Your-Forties-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Jan.-2025.pdf" title="Seven Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Forties by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Jan. 2025"] . To download click here: - [Ten Ways to Live Full and Loving Life in Your Sixties, Seventies, Eighties, and Beyond](https://lifesjourney.us/ten-ways-to-live-full-and-loving-life-in-your-sixties-seventies-eighties-and-beyond/) - Ten Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Sixties, Seventies, Eighties, and Beyond . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Ten-Ways-to-Live-a-Full-and-Loving-Life-in-Your-Sixties-Seventies-Eighties-and-Beyond-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-December-2024.pdf" title="Ten Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Sixties Seventies Eighties and Beyond – by Dr. Michael Obsatz – December 2024"] . To download click here: . To download a booklet version click - [Nine Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Fifties](https://lifesjourney.us/nine-ways-to-live-a-full-and-loving-life-in-your-fifties/) - Nine Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Fifties by Dr. Michael Obsatz - January 2025 . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Nine-Ways-to-Live-a-Full-and-Loving-Life-in-Your-Fifties-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Jan.-2025.pdf" title="Nine Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Fifties by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Jan. 2025"] . To download click here: - [Reaching for the Toilet Paper - 2025 New Year's Resolutions](https://lifesjourney.us/reaching-for-the-toilet-paper-2025-new-years-resolutions/) - Reaching for the Toilet Paper 2025 New Year's Resolutions By Dr. Michael Obsatz – December 2024 . New Year's resolutions are about goals, dreams, and hopes for the coming year. Some people "reach for the stars" and others reach to survive. As we move into 2025, let us be aware of all those who are - [Holy Opportunity: Finding Meaning In Our Lives by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/holy-opportunity-finding-meaning-in-our-lives-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Holy Opportunity: Finding Meaning In Our Lives By Dr. Michael Obsatz – May 2024 . It is a miracle that we exist at all. We have been born into a world of complexity -- small, helpless, and completely dependent upon our families and caretakers. Since those who care for us are imperfect, they will likely - [Ten Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Mid to Late Twenties](https://lifesjourney.us/ten-ways-to-live-a-full-and-loving-life-in-your-mid-to-late-twenties/) - Ten Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Mid to Late Twenties [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Ten-Ways-to-Live-a-Full-and-Loving-Life-in-Your-Mid-to-Late-Twenties-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Dec.-2024.pdf" title="Ten Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Mid to Late Twenties by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Dec. 2024"] . To download click here: - [Six Ways of Navigating Your Midlife Opportunity](https://lifesjourney.us/six-ways-of-navigating-your-midlife-opportunity/) - Six Ways of Navigating Your Midlife Opportunity [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Six-Ways-of-Navigating-Your-Midlife-Opportunity-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-December-2024.pdf" title="Six Ways of Navigating Your Midlife Opportunity by Dr. Michael Obsatz – December 2024"] . To download click here: . - [Six Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Thirties](https://lifesjourney.us/six-ways-to-live-a-full-and-loving-life-in-your-thirties/) - Six Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Thirties [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Six-Ways-to-Live-a-Full-and-Loving-Life-in-Your-Thirties-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-Dec.-2024.pdf" title="Six Ways to Live a Full and Loving Life in Your Thirties by Dr. Michael Obsatz – Dec. 2024"] . To download click here: - [A Compassionate Guide to Healthy Goal Setting While Grieving by Gwen Payne](https://lifesjourney.us/a-compassionate-guide-to-healthy-goal-setting-while-grieving-by-gwen-payne/) - Image by Freepik . A Compassionate Guide to Healthy Goal Setting While Grieving Grief is a difficult and complex experience that affects everyone differently. It can be hard to find motivation and establish healthy goals when struggling to cope with the loss of a loved one. But setting goals is crucial to your healing and - [Another School Shooting by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/another-school-shooting-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Another School Shooting By Dr. Michael Obsatz – December 2024 . A young teenage girl shot two people in a Madison, Wisconsin private school. She killed herself. Usually, the shooters are angry, loner boys. At this point, we don't have a motive. Why are we surprised? Any Empire System produces its share of isolated, powerless - [How Do You Want to Live Your Amazing Life?](https://lifesjourney.us/how-do-you-want-to-live-your-amazing-life/) - How Do You Want to Live Your Amazing Life? By David Tillman – February 2023 . Poet and author David Whyte wrote: “Ten years ago, I turned my head for a moment and it became my life.” [1] I think of this poem often. It reminds me to take a moment to pause from my - [Wonder and Wonder-full by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/wonder-and-wonder-full-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Wonder and Wonder-full By Dr. Michael Obsatz – December 2024 Have you ever considered your life an amazing miracle? Look at where you started, and where you are now. Look at all the challenges and obstacles you made it through, and around. Now, look at your accomplishments, not just worldly accomplishments, but ways in - [Embracing Grief with Mindfulness and Compassion by Gwen Payne](https://lifesjourney.us/embracing-grief-with-mindfulness-and-compassion-by-gwen-payne/) - . Embracing Grief with Mindfulness and Compassion by Gwen Payne - December 2024 . Grief and loss impact every part of life, often leaving us feeling disconnected. Mindfulness provides a way to engage with emotions, creating space for calm and inner strength. Practices like gratitude, mindful breathing, and self-compassion help us connect with feelings in - [Paul Pruyser Spiritual Assessment Variables - Storytelling about Spirituality and Religion](https://lifesjourney.us/paul-pruyser-spiritual-assessment-variables-storytelling-about-spirituality-and-religion/) - Paul Pruyser Spiritual Assessment Variables Storytelling about Spirituality and Religion Thoughtful quotations to foster small group discussions or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Paul-Pruyser-Quotation-Storytelling-about-Spirituality-and-Religion-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Paul Pruyser Quotation – Storytelling about Spirituality and Religion – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Turning Parental Anxiety into a Catalyst for Family Harmony - by Gwen Payne](https://lifesjourney.us/turning-parental-anxiety-into-a-catalyst-for-family-harmony-by-gwen-payne/) - Turning Parental Anxiety into a Catalyst for Family Harmony Managing parental anxiety is a significant challenge that affects both caregivers and their families, often influencing a child's sense of security and well-being. Recognizing how stress manifests and implementing effective strategies can help create a more supportive and nurturing environment. This article provides insights and practical - [Love Is Our Motivation, Navigation, and Inspiration by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/love-is-our-motivation-navigation-and-inspiration-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Love Is Our Motivation, Navigation, and Inspiration by Dr. Michael Obsatz – November 2024 . As the world lives in Empire Consciousness, with its domination, hierarchy, competition, scarcity and fear, we can choose to live in love -- our motivation, navigation and inspiration. . Oneness Consciousness is the pathway to love and making love the - [Wendell Berry Poem - Manifesto - The Mad Farmers Liberation Front - Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/wendell-berry-poem-manifesto-the-mad-farmers-liberation-front-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - Wendell Berry Poem Manifesto - The Mad Farmers Liberation Front and Storytelling in Small Groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Wendell-Berry-Poem-Manifesto-The-Mad-Farmers-Liberation-Front-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-Nov.-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Wendell Berry Poem – Manifesto – The Mad Farmers Liberation Front – Storytelling in Small Groups – Nov. 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] . To download click here: - [How Do You See God? by Dr Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/how-do-you-see-god-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - How Do You See God? Dr. Michael Obsatz – October 2024 . God can mean many different things to people. Here are just a few of the conceptual ideas related to who God is: . God is Life-Force-Energy Universal love . God is Father/Mother . God is a punishing parent, demanding conformity to God's will - [Lifetime Joys, Losses, and Everything In-Between Timeline](https://lifesjourney.us/lifetime-losses-joys-and-everything-in-between-timeline/) - Lifetime Joys, Losses, and Everything In-Between Timeline Model by Dr. Michael Obsatz and David Tillman - 2022 Have you ever taken time to look back at your life’s journey so far? Why do we look back at our life? We can identify turning points in our lives. To clarify and organize our thinking about life, - [In What Emotion Do Live with Most Often?](https://lifesjourney.us/in-what-emotion-do-you-live-with-most-often/) - In What Emotion Do You Live with Most Often? By Dr. Michael Obsatz and David Tillman, 2021 . We invite you to find a quiet place to sit to reflect (and journal) about: "In What Emotion Do You Live with Most Often?" This exercise is for you to pause from your busy life and take - [On Being A Guiding Light](https://lifesjourney.us/on-being-a-guiding-light/) - On Being A Guiding Light by Dr. Michael Obsatz – September 2022 . I will be turning 81 next week. That's 9 squared. I make a joke about it because it doesn't seem real to me. How can I be 81 when I was just 50 about five minutes ago? Time flies, and it flies - [See You Later Navigator](https://lifesjourney.us/see-you-later-navigator/) - See You Later, Navigator by Dr. Michael Obsatz – September 2022 . The world can be a challenging place to live. Jesus told us to be "IN the world, but not OF the world." To be not OF the world means that one does not live needing earthly approval, praise, or validation. It also means - [Paper on John Polkinghorne’s reasons for saying the physical universe is ultimately “futile”](https://lifesjourney.us/polkinghornes-reasons-for-saying-the-physical-universe-is-ultimately-futile/) - Paper on John Polkinghorne’s Reasons for Saying The Physical Universe is Ultimately “Futile” By David Tillman For class: Religion and Science, United Theological Seminary, MN - 2008 Summarize Polkinghorne’s reasons for saying the physical universe is ultimately “futile” Polkinghorne tells us “Whatever hopes there might be of human progress within history, they can amount to - [All Our Losses, All Our Griefs](https://lifesjourney.us/all-our-losses-all-our-griefs-resources-for-pastoral-care/) - All Our Losses, All Our Griefs by Kenneth R. Mitchell and Herbert Anderson [1] Grief and Loss Weekly Reflection Paper David Tillman - September 19, 2013United Theological Seminary, New Brighton, MN 55112Class: Pastoral Care in Grief and Loss, taught by Dr. Trina Armstrong Key issues: “This is a book about loss: how serious personal losses - [Your Spirituality - Take a Look](https://lifesjourney.us/your-spirituality-take-a-look/) - Your Spirituality - Take a Look by David Tillman - July 20, 2020 . During the first few weeks of my chaplain residency at Mercy Hospital, I shadowed Kevin, one of the hospital chaplains. Before we went to visit with a patient who had attempted suicide, he suggested I read about Paul Pruyser's Seven Diagnostic - [The Denial of Death by Ernest Becker](https://lifesjourney.us/the-denial-of-death-by-ernest-becker/) - Reflection Paper by David Tillman – October 2013Pastoral Care in Grief and Loss classUnited Theological Seminary, taught by Dr. Trina Armstrong The Denial of Death by Ernest Becker 1973First Free Press paperback edition 1975 Key issues: “The main theme of this book… The idea of death, the fear of it, haunts the human animal like nothing else; - ["The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-road-not-taken-by-robert-frost/) - "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost and Storytelling in Small Groups . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Robert-Frost-Quotation-and-Small-Group-Prompts-August-2023-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Robert Frost Quotation and Small Group Prompts – August 2023 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Bereavement Care and Counseling](https://lifesjourney.us/bereavement-care-and-counseling/) - Article excerpts from Howard Clinebell's book: Basic Types of Pastoral Care and Counseling: Resources for the Ministry of Healing and Growth (1) by David Tillman, December 2013United Theological Seminary, New Brighton, MN 55112Class: Pastoral Care in Grief and Loss, taught by Dr. Trina Armstrong . Key issues: “Ministers are the only professional persons with training - ["The Five Things We Cannot Change" by David Richo and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-five-things-we-cannot-change-by-david-richo/) - "The Five Things We Cannot Change" by David Richo and Storytelling in Small Groups . [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/David-Richo-The-Five-Things-We-Cannot-Change-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-www.lifesjourney.us-August-2023.pdf" title="David Richo – The Five Things We Cannot Change and Storytelling in Small Groups – www.lifesjourney.us – August 2023"] To Download click here: - [Try This Creative Awareness Meditation by David Tillman](https://lifesjourney.us/try-this-creative-awareness-meditation-by-david-tillman/) - Try This Creative Awareness Meditation by David Tillman – September 2024 . This is a simple meditation for people working on creative projects. This meditation will allow you to relax your mind and body. This restful state often will open new insights and ways to look at a creative project from a new perspective. You - [George Ella Lyon Poem - Where I'm From and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/george-ella-lyon-poem-where-im-from-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - George Ella Lyon Poem - Where I'm From and Storytelling in Small Groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/George-Ella-Lyon-Poem-Where-Im-From-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-Sept.-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="George Ella Lyon Poem – Where Im From – Storytelling in Small Groups – Sept. 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] . To download click here: - ["Legacy" - Storytelling Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/legacy-storytelling-menu/) - "LEGACY" - Storytelling In Small Groups Menu Reflections and prompts from “LEGACY” by Dr. Michael Obsatz Link to "LEGACY" article by Dr. Michael Obsatz L- Love Lessons “We have daily opportunities to share love in the world. We can be kind to those we know, and those we hardly know. Our behaviors reflect our feelings..." - [The Sunflowers - Poem by Mary Oliver and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-sunflowers-poem-by-mary-oliver-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - The Sunflowers - Poem by Mary Oliver and Storytelling in Small Groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Mary-Oliver-Poem-The-Sunflowers-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-Sept.-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Mary Oliver Poem – The Sunflowers – Storytelling in Small Groups – Sept. 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] . To download click here: - [Why Are You Angry? Learn More.](https://lifesjourney.us/why-are-you-angry-learn-more/) - Why Are You Angry? Learn More. Check out ANGER e sources by David J. Decker, M.A., and Dr. Michael Obsatz www.ANGEResources.com . Eight Types of Anger, From “Healing Our Anger” by Mike Obsatz 1. Chronic anger -- ongoing resentment toward others and life in general 2. Volatile anger -- comes and goes, builds to rage, - [How Empire Consciousness Produces Emotional Pain and Trauma](https://lifesjourney.us/how-empire-consciousness-produces-emotional-pain-and-trauma/) - How Empire Consciousness Produces Emotional Pain and Trauma by Dr. Michael Obsatz - January 2024 [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/How-Empire-Consciousness-Produces-Emotional-Pain-and-Trauma-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-January-2024.pdf" title="How Empire Consciousness Produces Emotional Pain and Trauma by Dr. Michael Obsatz – January 2024"] . To download click here: - [Frank Ostaseski Quotation From The Five Invitations](https://lifesjourney.us/frank-ostaseski-quotation/) - Frank Ostaseski Quotation Storytelling in small groups or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Frank-Ostaseski-Quotation-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.-us.pdf" title="Frank Ostaseski Quotation – Storytelling in Small Groups – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney. us"] To download click here: - [Richard Rohr Quotation from "Falling Upward"](https://lifesjourney.us/richard-rohr-quotation-from-falling-upward/) - Richard Rohr Quotation from "Falling Upward" Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Richard-Rohr-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-November-2022.pdf" title="Richard Rohr Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – November 2022"] . To download click here: - [Children in Trauma:  Abandonment, Abuse, and Forced Conformity into a Dysfunctional World](https://lifesjourney.us/children-in-trauma-abandonment-abuse-and-forced-conformity-into-a-dysfunctional-world/) - Children in Trauma: Abandonment, Abuse, and Forced Conformity into a Dysfunctional World by Dr. Michael Obsatz – September 2021 All children are born with parents who are imperfect, and who have had to cope with a world living out of scarcity, fear, and lovelessness. Books on this include: Steiner -- Scripts People Live, Miller -- - [Living, Learning, Loving by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/living-learning-loving-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Living, Learning, Loving By Dr. Michael Obsatz – September 2024 . How much data can a human brain store? In my 83 years on this planet, I have absorbed so much data. I have probably read 5,000 books and articles. I have been to well over a thousand lectures -- by teachers, authors, and speakers. - [Seven Year Cycles of Life by Schachter Shalomi and Miller](https://lifesjourney.us/seven-year-cycles-of-life-by-schachter-shalomi-and-miller/) - Seven-Year Cycles of Life From Age-ing to Sage-ing by Zalman Schachter Shalomi and Ronald S. Miller Storytelling in small groups or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Seven-Year-Cycles-of-Life-Schachter-Shalomi-and-Miller-www.lifesjourney.us-November-2022.pdf" title="Seven Year Cycles of Life – Schachter-Shalomi and Miller – www.lifesjourney.us – November 2022"] To download click here: - [How Your Life Can Be Different if You Work to Change the Way You Experience and Express Your Anger by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/how-your-life-can-be-different-if-you-work-to-change-the-way-you-experience-and-express-your-anger-by-david-j-decker/) - How Your Life Can Be Different if You Work to Change the Way You Experience and Express Your Anger by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/How-Your-Life-Can-be-Different-if-You-Work-to-Change-the-Way-You-Experience-and-Express-Your-Anger-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="How Your Life Can be Different if You Work to Change the Way You Experience and Express Your Anger by David J. Decker"] . To download click here: - [Relentless Goodbye – Grief and Love in the Shadow of Dementia - Book Review](https://lifesjourney.us/relentless-goodbye-grief-and-love-in-the-shadow-of-dementia-book-review/) - Relentless Goodbye – Grief and Love in the Shadow of [Lewy Body] Dementia - Book Review by Ginnie Horst Burkholder [1] Book Review by David Tillman, Grief and Loss class, United Theological Seminary, October 2013 Describe the main characters and the loss and grief issues: The story is written by Ginnie Horst Burkholder. She - [Breaking Out of Prisons of Childhood: Coming into Oneness Consciousness by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/breaking-out-of-prisons-of-childhood-coming-into-oneness-consciousness-by-michael-obsatz/) - Breaking Out of Prisons of Childhood: Coming into Oneness Consciousness Dr. Michael Obsatz – August 2024 Many of us grew up in a variety of prisons. Rigid dogmas, cultural norms, circumstances -- these all imprison children. Being locked in a "prison" means limited access to wholeness, and powerful shame, control, and addictions. Here are a - [Kindness 101 by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/kindness-101-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Kindness 101 Dr. Michael Obsatz – August 2024 . I am paying attention to being kind to everyone who provides a service for me. This includes waiters and waitresses, clerks, doctors, nurses, lawn care people, pharmacists, grocers, delivery people, spiritual teachers, etc. Also, I try to be kind to friends and strangers. When I thank - [The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us About Living Fully](https://lifesjourney.us/the-five-invitations-discovering-what-death-can-teach-us-about-living-fully/) - Storytelling in Small Groups: The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us About Living Fully by Frank Ostaseski Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/The-Five-Invitations-by-Frank-Ostaseski-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="The Five Invitations by Frank Ostaseski – Storytelling in Small Groups – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: PowerPoint PDF with more - [Model and Introduction to Process Thought, also known as Process Theology](https://lifesjourney.us/model-and-introduction-to-process-thought-also-known-as-process-theology/) - Model and Introduction to Process Thought, also known as Process Theology by David Tillman - July 11, 2020 Below is a link to an introduction to Process Thought, also known as Process Theology. Process Thought was developed by Alfred North Whitehead in the 1920's. Process thought is about living in relationship with God, others, and - [How to Navigate Toxic Environments by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/how-to-navigate-toxic-environments-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - How to Navigate Toxic Environments By Dr. Michael Obsatz – August 2024 . We have all experienced environments which are toxic. They have many aspects in common: Toxic environments are hierarchical, with some people having power over others. They could include work environments, family, spiritual institutions, schools, and political establishments. Toxic environments use power, control, - [The Movement From Empire Consciousness to Oneness Consciousness](https://lifesjourney.us/the-movement-from-empire-consciousness-to-oneness-consciousness/) - The Movement From Empire Consciousness to Oneness Consciousness by Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2020. 1. PERSONAL/EMOTIONAL/SPIRITUAL From: I feel alone and abandonedTo: I feel loved and connected to all of creation From: I don't think I'm worthy of being lovedTo: I am worthy of love just as I am From: I live in shame, - [The Five Things We Cannot Change - Video](https://lifesjourney.us/five-things-we-can-not-change-video/) - Dr. Michael Obsatz talks about David Richo’s book, The Five Things We Cannot Change … and the Happiness We Find by Embracing Them. 1) Everything changes and ends2) Pain is a part of life3) Life isn’t always fair4) Things don’t go according to plan5) People are not always loving and loyal all the time - [Facing and Dealing with the Loss of Dreams](https://lifesjourney.us/facing-and-dealing-with-the-loss-of-dreams/) - Facing and Dealing with the Loss of Dreams by Ted Bowman Storytelling in a small group or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Facing-and-Dealing-With-the-Loss-of-Dreams-Quotations-by-Ted-Bowman-November-18-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Facing and Dealing With the Loss of Dreams – Quotations by Ted Bowman- November 18 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] . To download click here: - [The Guest House Poem by Rumi](https://lifesjourney.us/the-guest-house-poem-by-rumi/) - Rumi Quotation for Storytelling in Small Groups Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Rumi-Quotation-The-Guest-House-www.lifesjourney.us-August-2022.pdf" title="Rumi Quotation – The Guest House – www.lifesjourney.us – August 2022"] To download click here: - [Marianne Williamson Quotation and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/marianne-williamson-quotation/) - Marianne Williamson Quotation and Storytelling in Small Groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Marianne-Williamson-Quotation-and-Small-Group-Prompts-August-2023-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Marianne Williamson Quotation and Small Group Prompts – August 2023 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Eleanor Roosevelt Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/eleanor-roosevelt-quotation/) - Eleanor Roosevelt Quotation Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection.[pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Eleanor-Roosevelt-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-March-2021.pdf" title="Eleanor Roosevelt Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – March 2021"] To download click here: - [Alfred North Whitehead Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/alfred-north-whitehead-quotation/) - Alfred North Whitehead Quotation Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Alfred-North-Whitehead-Quotation-and-Small-Group-Prompts-November-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Alfred North Whitehead Quotation and Small Group Prompts – November 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [The Hero's Journey by Richard Rohr and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-heros-journey-by-richard-rohr-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - The Hero's Journey by Richard Rohr and Storytelling in Small Groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/The-Heros-Journey-by-Richard-Rohr-and-storytelling-in-small-groups-February-2024.pdf" title="The Heros Journey by Richard Rohr and storytelling in small groups – February 2024"] To download click here: - [Our Resurrection Experience by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/our-resurrection-experience-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Our Resurrection Experience By Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2024 We live in a material, physical world. At some point, we experience a worldly Insurrection -- some major hurt or abandonment that breaks our heart. This comes from living in an Empire with Empire Consciousness with its focus on power, domination, hierarchy, competition, scarcity, and fear. - [God's Healing Plan by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/gods-healing-plan-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - God’s Healing Plan by Dr. Michael Obsatz – August 2024 . The world's heart is aching, breaking, shaking But God has a healing plan, and you are called God's Healing Plan I am Whole, Holy, and Grace-filled . I am whole I have thoughts, feelings, a mind, a body I am grateful to be whole - [Presentation from the book Focusing by Eugene T. Gendlin, Ph.D.](https://lifesjourney.us/presentation-from-the-book-focusing-by-eugene-t-gendlin-ph-d/) - Presentation from the book: "Focusing" by Eugene T. Gendlin, Ph.D. Focusing “consists of six steps that identify and change the way thoughts and emotions are held within the body.” 1 “Focusing can be done virtually anywhere, at any time, and an entire ‘session’ can take no longer than ten minutes, but its effects can be - [Ambiguous Loss and Disenfranchised Grief](https://lifesjourney.us/ambiguous-loss-and-disenfranchised-grief/) - Ambiguous Loss and Disenfranchised Grief Grief and Loss Weekly Reflection Paper by David Tillman – October 17, 2013United Theological Seminary, New Brighton, MN 55112Class: Pastoral Care in Grief and Loss as taught by Dr. Trina Armstrong Key issues: Ambiguous Loss - Learning to Live with Unresolved Grief – by Pauline Boss, (Harvard University Press, Cambridge, - [Talking to Children about Dying and Death](https://lifesjourney.us/talking-to-children-about-dying-and-death/) - Talking to Children about Dying and Death by David Tillman - April 2021 .. Take a moment to think about how you are going to talk to children about dying and death. I vividly remember talking with my grandmother as she was lying in bed at our home. She was dying of cancer. My grandmother - [Making Sense of Our Grief and Loss](https://lifesjourney.us/grief-and-loss/) - Making Sense of Our Grief and Loss - PowerPoint by David Tillman - December 2020 Grief and Loss PDF - click up and down arrows to scroll through 18 pages To download click here: - [Eighteen Ways to Be Present When a Loved One is Near Death](https://lifesjourney.us/eighteen-ways-to-be-present-when-a-loved-one-is-dying/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Eighteen-Ways-to-Be-Present-When-a-Loved-One-is-Near-Death-2-page-by-David-Tillman-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Eighteen Ways to Be Present When a Loved One is Near Death – 2 page – by David Tillman – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] ___________________________ Eight page version of Eighteen Ways to Be Present When a Loved One is Near Death [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Eighteen-Ways-to-Be-Present-When-a-Loved-One-is-Near-Death-by-David-Tillman-December-2021-r2-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Eighteen Ways to Be Present When a Loved One - [Types of Grief and Loss](https://lifesjourney.us/types-of-grief-and-loss-2/) - Types of Loss and Grief Researched by David Tillman Six Types of Loss: Mitchell and Anderson [1] Material Loss: “the loss of a physical object or of familiar surroundings to which one has an important attachment.”Example: missing wedding ring, home fire, or moving to a different state. Relationship loss: “the ending of opportunities to relate - [The Well of Grief by David Whyte and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-well-of-grief-by-david-whyte-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - "The Well of Grief" by David Whyte and Storytelling in Small Groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Well-of-Grief-by-David-Whyte-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups.pdf" title="The Well of Grief by David Whyte and Storytelling in Small Groups"] To download click here: - [Paper - "American Religious Freedom"](https://lifesjourney.us/paper-american-religious-freedom/) - by David Tillman - May 2011Class paper: American Religious Histories, United Theological Seminary, MN In the new democracy, established after the American Revolution, we saw a growing, pluralist religious society develop. We saw the effects of freedom from British rule enlivening Americans’ religious interests and practices. American religious history shows us Americans became, and - [Eight Strengths of a Faith Community - from Deeply Woven Roots book by Gary Gunderson](https://lifesjourney.us/eight-strengths-of-a-faith-community-from-deeply-woven-roots-book-by-gary-gunderson/) - Eight Strengths of a Faith Community Deeply Woven Roots book by Gary Gunderson [1] by David Tillman – April 2010 Introduction to Pastoral Care, United Theological Seminary, New Brighton, MN . Deeply Woven Roots, written by Gary Gunderson, primary concern, as it relates to ministry, is the church needs to provide health, healing, and hope - [Lost: Understanding and Coping With Abandonment](https://lifesjourney.us/lost-understanding-and-coping-with-abandonment/) - Lost: Understanding and Coping With Abandonment by Dr. Michael Obsatz. We hear a lot about abandonment. Infants are abandoned in front of churches. Victims of bullies are often abandoned when they come forward and tell their truth. Some of the elderly are abandoned by their families and spend their last years alone. Some marginalized kids - [Scarcity, Scared, and Sacred](https://lifesjourney.us/scarcity-scared-and-sacred/) - Scarcity, Scared, and Sacred By Dr. Michael Obsatz – August 2024 . Have you ever thought about the word "scarcity?" It means not enough -- not enough money, power, space, resources. The word "scare" is close to scarcity. Fear comes with "not enough." Fear of missing out, fear of poverty, fear of starvation, fear of - [Sono’s Death Poem and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/sonos-death-poem-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Mona-Santacroce-Death-Poem-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-April-2024-r1-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Mona Santacroce Death Poem – Storytelling in Small Groups – April 2024 r1 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To Download Click Here: - [Paper on The Theology of Paul Tillich](https://lifesjourney.us/1395-2/) - Paper on The Theology of Paul Tillich by David Tillman – August 2013 Class on The Theology of Paul Tillich, United Theological Seminary, MN In 1951, theologian Paul Tillich wrote “Systematic Theology – Volume One,” his first of three volumes. In Volume One, Tillich introduces us to the nature, organization, method, and structure of systematic - [Freedom to Breathe - A James Luther Adams Perspective](https://lifesjourney.us/freedom-to-breathe-through-the-theology-of-james-luther-adams/) - Freedom to Breathe – a James Luther Adams Perspective David Tillman – January 2013 Class Paper - Theological Ethics of James Luther Adams, United Theological Seminary, MN In Genesis 2:7 we read, “Then the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, - [Paper on Alcoholics Anonymous](https://lifesjourney.us/paper-on-alcoholics-anonymous/) - Paper on Alcoholics Anonymous by David Tillman- December 2012 Paper for Addiction and Recovery class - United Theological Seminary Alcoholism is an unsanctioned illness in our culture. Alcoholics Anonymous's (A.A.) primary focus is to help alcoholics stop drinking and stay sober. A.A.’s Twelve Step program, as Father Joseph Martin states, “is to get the alcoholic - ["The Wounded Healer" by Henri J.M. Nouwen - Book Review](https://lifesjourney.us/the-wounded-healer-book-review/) - "The Wounded Healer" by Henri J.M. Nouwen ¹Book Review by David Tillman - July 2011 One of my Chaplain Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) goals I set up in my learning contract was to read “The Wounded Healer” which I found insightful. Here are some quotations from Nouwen's "The Wounded Healer" that spoke to me. “What - [Dietrich Bonhoeffer Quotation - Storytelling about Grief and Loss](https://lifesjourney.us/dietrich-bonhoeffer-quotation-storytelling-about-grief-and-loss/) - Dietrich Bonhoeffer Quotation Storytelling about Grief and Loss Storytelling in small groups or personal reflection [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Dietrich-Bonhoeffer-Quotation-Storytelling-about-Grief-and-Loss-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Dietrich Bonhoeffer Quotation – Storytelling about Grief and Loss – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [She Let Go by Safire Rose - Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/she-let-go-by-safire-rose-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - She Let Go by Safire Rose Storytelling in Small Groups or Personal Reflection [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/She-Let-Go-by-Safire-Rose-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-www.lifesjourney.us-July-2023.pdf" title="She Let Go by Safire Rose – Storytelling in Small Groups – www.lifesjourney.us – July 2023"] To download click here: - [Six Types of Loss](https://lifesjourney.us/six-types-of-loss/) - Six Types of Loss by Kenneth R. Mitchell and Herbert Anderson Storytelling in a small group or personal reflection [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Six-Types-of-Loss-by-Mitchell-and-Anderson-November-20-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Six Types of Loss by Mitchell and Anderson – November 20 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Ambiguous Loss](https://lifesjourney.us/ambiguous-loss/) - Ambiguous Loss by Pauline Boss Storytelling in a small group or personal reflection [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Ambiguous-Loss-Pauline-Boss-November-20-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Ambiguous Loss – Pauline Boss – November 20 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Disenfranchised Grief](https://lifesjourney.us/disenfranchised-grief/) - Disenfranchised Grief Storytelling in a small group or personal reflection [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Disenfranchised-Grief-November-20-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Disenfranchised Grief – November 20 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - ["Let Yourself Rest" by Jeff Foster and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/let-yourself-rest-by-jeff-foster-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - "Let Yourself Rest" by Jeff Foster and Storytelling in Small Groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Let-Yourself-Rest-by-Jeff-Foster-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-Jan.-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Let Yourself Rest by Jeff Foster and Storytelling in Small Groups – Jan. 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To Download Click Here: - [Loss of Dreams](https://lifesjourney.us/loss-of-dreams/) - Loss of Dreams - A Special Kind of Grief Storytelling in a small group or personal reflection [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/A-Loss-of-Dreams-Relates-to...-Quotation-by-Ted-Bowman-November-18-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="A Loss of Dreams Relates to… Quotation by Ted Bowman- November 18 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Traditional vs. Assertiveness Beliefs by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/traditional-versus-assertiveness-beliefs-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Traditional-Versus-Assertiveness-Beliefs-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Traditional Versus Assertiveness Beliefs by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [When Death Comes by Mary Oliver and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/when-death-comes-by-mary-oliver-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - When Death Comes by Mary Oliver and Storytelling in Small Groups [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/When-Death-Comes-by-Mary-Oliver-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-July-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="When Death Comes by Mary Oliver and Storytelling in Small Groups – July 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [The Three Movements of the Spiritual Life – Reaching Out - Book Review](https://lifesjourney.us/the-three-movements-of-the-spiritual-life-reaching-out-by-henri-nouwen-book-review/) - Book by Henri J.M. Nouwen [1] Book review with personal insights and selected quotations by David Tillman - August 2011 I have found that reading Henri Nouwen’s, “The Three Movements of the Spiritual Life – Reaching Out,” has given me a model to better understand our spiritual relationship with ourselves, with others, and with - [Distill, My Heart: From Empire Consciousness to Oneness Consciousness](https://lifesjourney.us/distill-my-heart-from-empire-consciousness-to-oneness-consciousness/) - Distill, My Heart: From Empire Consciousness to Oneness Consciousness By Dr. Michael Obsatz – November 2022 "Distill" is defined as "extracting the essential elements" from something. So, we can read a book, and distill its main ideas and conclusions. We can share that information with others, so they can "get the gist" of book without - [Denial: The Cornerstone of Empire Consciousness](https://lifesjourney.us/denial-the-cornerstone-of-empire-consciousness/) - Denial: The Cornerstone of Empire Consciousness by Dr. Michael Obsatz – May 2022 When I was working in chemical dependency programs, there was a lot of talk about "denial." It was about people denying their addictive behavior, and pretending everything was all right. We used to laugh and say "Denial is not just a river - [Denial of Reality: The Role of Minimization and Lack of Accountability in Empires](https://lifesjourney.us/denial-of-reality-the-role-of-minimization-and-lack-of-accountability-in-empires/) - Denial of Reality: The Role of Minimization and Lack of Accountability in Empires By Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 2023 I remember being blamed for doing something wrong as a child and responding, "I didn't do it. It wasn't me." It might have been teasing my little sister or sneaking some extra cookies for dessert. Sometimes, - [Heaven on Earth by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/heaven-on-earth-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Heaven on Earth By Dr. Michael Obsatz – May 2024 Today, my wife and I went to Kelly and Kelly Garden Store --- for its big opening of the season. I brought my camp chair and found a comfortable and shady place to sit near the offices. There were tall trees all around me -- oaks, - [God is a River by Peter Mayer](https://lifesjourney.us/god-is-a-river-by-peter-mayer/) - God is a River by Peter Mayer Storytelling in small groups or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/God-is-a-River-by-Peter-Mayer-song-Lyrics-www.lifesjourney.us-2021-rev.-2023-a.pdf" title="God is a River by Peter Mayer – song Lyrics – www.lifesjourney.us – 2021 – rev. 2023 a"] https://youtu.be/BFQAwJLsjNw - [Do You Know What Parenting Style You Use?](https://lifesjourney.us/do-you-know-what-parenting-style-you-use/) - Do You Know What Parenting Style You Use? by Carolyn Penniman University of Michigan Extension – December 2013 [pdf-embedder url=”https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Do-You-Know-What-Parenting-Style-You-Use-Storytelling-with-Family-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf” title=”Do You Know What Parenting Style You Use – Storytelling with Family – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us”] To download click here: Do You Know What Parenting Style You Use? by Carolyn Penniman 1 file(s) 596.47 - [Writing "My Story" Resources Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/writing-my-story-resources-menu/) - Writing “My Story” Resources Menu As you write “My Story” you may find it helpful to use some of the resources below. They may give your insight as you reflect on the questions and while you explore aspects of your life’s journey in new and different ways. What you are writing in “My Story” will - [Recreation, Relaxation, and Travel](https://lifesjourney.us/recreation/) - Recreation, Relaxation, and Travel Making time for recreation and travel is important in life. People we meet along our journey will teach us news ways to look at the world that can enrich our lives. Time for recreation is time to “recreate” who we are by rest, activity, and interaction with others, ourselves, and nature. - [The Arts](https://lifesjourney.us/the-arts/) - The Arts Creative human expression which includes visual arts, literature, and performing arts. How do you use, enjoy, and create human expression in your life? Cracked Open Digital Art by David Tillman Cracked Open “When we come out of our shells, we realize we are all the same” (Dr. Michael Obsatz). Click Here Do You - [LEGACY -- The Imprint We Leave Behind](https://lifesjourney.us/legacy-the-imprint-we-leave-behind/) - LEGACY -- The Imprint We Leave Behind By Dr. Michael Obsatz - January 1, 2021 Every day, we have an opportunity to do our part to bring more love, peace, and joy into the world. Our every action can make a difference in somebody's life. When we leave this earthly body and this planet, it - [Discovering the Present Moment](https://lifesjourney.us/discovering-the-present-moment/) - Discovering the Present MomentWhen Our Mind is Thinking about Our Future by David Tillman - January 2021 "Whatever the present moment contains, accept it as you had chosen it. Always work with it, not against it." Eckhart Tolle © David Tillman, January 2021, all rights reserved. www.lifesjourney.us - ["How to Think Theologically" Book Review](https://lifesjourney.us/how-to-think-theologically-book-review/) - "How to Think Theologically" Book Review Book Review: "How to Think Theologically" by Howard W. Stone and James O. Duke (Fortress Press, Minneapolis, 2006). by David Tillman - October 2011Paper for Writing Class - United Theological Seminary, MN In How to Think Theologically, Howard W. Stone and James O. Duke present a well thought - [Centering Prayer and Meditation](https://lifesjourney.us/centering-prayer-and-meditation/) - Centering Prayer and Meditation by David Tillman - 2012/rev. 2022 Take a look at the Centering Prayer and Meditation PowerPoint I presented in 2012. I have been practicing meditation for many years and meditating has given me a deep feeling and sense that "We are loved by God (or creator), always have been loved, and - [What Is that Little Voice in Your Soul Calling You to Do and Be?](https://lifesjourney.us/what-is-that-little-voice-in-your-soul-calling-you-to-do-and-be/) - What Is that Little Voice in Your Soul Calling You to Do and Be? Thoughtful quotations to foster small group discussions or personal reflection. Click here to download: - [Love by Victor Hugo and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/love-by-victor-hugo-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Love-by-Victor-Hugo-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-July-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Love by Victor Hugo and Storytelling in Small Groups – July 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [An Anger Journal](https://lifesjourney.us/an-anger-journal-by-david-j-decker/) - by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/An-Anger-Journal-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="An Anger Journal by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [An Anger Analysis](https://lifesjourney.us/an-anger-analysis-by-david-j-decker/) - by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/An-Anger-Analysis-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="An Anger Analysis by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Navigating Our Many Worlds Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-our-many-worlds-2/) - Navigating Our Many Worlds By Dr. Michael Obsatz – Reflections and Prompts for Small Groups or Personal Reflection We are amazingly adaptive and complex creatures. By the time we are old, we have navigated through many different worlds. Many people do not give themselves enough credit for navigating all of these worlds, and adjusting to a wide - [Where Anger Can Affect You in Your Life](https://lifesjourney.us/where-anger-can-affect-you-in-your-life-by-david-j-decker/) - by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Where-Anger-Can-Affect-You-in-Your-Life-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Where Anger Can Affect You in Your Life by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Healthy Boundaries](https://lifesjourney.us/healthy-boundaries-by-david-j-decker/) - by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Healthy-Boundaries-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Healthy Boundaries by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [The Developmental Stages of Partner Relationships When Anger is an Issue](https://lifesjourney.us/the-developmental-stages-of-partner-relationships-when-anger-is-an-issue-by-david-j-decker/) - by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Developmental-Stages-of-Partner-Relationships-When-Anger-is-an-Issue-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="The Developmental Stages of Partner Relationships When Anger is an Issue by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Self-Talk that Promotes or Interferes With Your Being Assertive](https://lifesjourney.us/self-talk-that-promotes-or-interferes-with-your-being-assertive-by-david-j-decker/) - by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Self-Talk-that-Promotes-or-Interferes-With-Your-Being-Assertive-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Self-Talk that Promotes or Interferes With Your Being Assertive by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Some Specific Examples of Controlling Behavior](https://lifesjourney.us/some-specific-examples-of-controlling-behavior-by-david-j-decker/) - by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Some-Specific-Examples-of-Controlling-Behavior-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Some Specific Examples of Controlling Behavior by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [How to Handle Your Anger More Effectively and Respectfully: The Short Course](https://lifesjourney.us/how-to-handle-your-anger-more-effectively-and-respectfully-the-short-course-by-david-j-decker/) - by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/How-to-Handle-Your-Anger-More-Effectively-and-Respectfully-The-Short-Course-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="How to Handle Your Anger More Effectively and Respectfully – The Short Course by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [21 Skills for Raising Empowered Children](https://lifesjourney.us/21-skills-for-raising-empowered-children-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - by Dr. Michael Obsatz [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/21-Skills-For-Raising-Empowered-Children-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz.pdf" title="21 Skills For Raising Empowered Children by Dr. Michael Obsatz"] To download click here: - [Five Tasks for the Empowerment of Young Adults](https://lifesjourney.us/five-tasks-for-the-empowerment-of-young-adults-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - by Dr. Michael Obsatz [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Five-Tasks-for-the-Empowerment-of-Young-Adults-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz.pdf" title="Five Tasks for the Empowerment of Young Adults by Dr. Michael Obsatz"] To download click here: - [Thirty-Six Life Lessons I Wish I Had Learned Earlier](https://lifesjourney.us/thirty-six-life-lessons-i-wish-i-had-learned-earlier-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - by Dr. Michael Obsatz [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Thirty-Six-Life-Lessons-I-Wish-I-Had-Learned-Earlier-by-Dr.-Micahel-Obsatz.pdf" title="Thirty-Six Life Lessons I Wish I Had Learned Earlier by Dr. Micahel Obsatz"] To download click here: - [The "Shame-Rage Connection" by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/the-shame-rage-connection-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Shame-Rage-Connection-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="The Shame Rage Connection by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Some Questions about the Impact of Your Family of Origin and Your Childhood on the Rest of Your Life](https://lifesjourney.us/some-questions-about-the-impact-of-your-family-of-origin-and-your-childhood-on-the-rest-of-your-life/) - by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Some-Questions-about-the-Impact-of-Your-Family-of-Origin-and-Your-Childhood-on-the-Rest-of-Your-Life-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Some Questions about the Impact of Your Family of Origin and Your Childhood on the Rest of Your Life by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Cycles of Living - From Abundance or Scarcity?](https://lifesjourney.us/cycles-of-living-from-abundance-or-scarcity/) - Cycles of Living - From Abundance or Scarcity? Model created by Dr. Michael Obsatz . Dr. Michael Obsatz uses the "Cycles of Living" model below to look at the characteristics of the life of a person living from “abundance” and another person living from “scarcity.” He highlights that the person living in abundance most often - [From Blurry Vision to Spiritual Oneness Clarity](https://lifesjourney.us/from-blurry-vision-to-spiritual-oneness-clarity/) - From Blurry Vision to Spiritual Oneness Clarity By Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2024 . My recent cataract surgery revealed how blurry my vision had been these last few years. I wonder if the world, and especially the US, needs cataract surgery to start seeing life, people, and the earth more clearly. As we learn - [Some Practical Ways to Be a More Effective and Respectful Parent](https://lifesjourney.us/some-practical-ways-to-be-a-more-effective-and-respectful-parent/) - Some Practical Ways to Be a More Effective and Respectful Parent by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Some-Practical-Way-to-Be-a-More-Effective-and-Respectful-Parent-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Some Practical Way to Be a More Effective and Respectful Parent by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Mark Twain Quotation and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/mark-twain-quotation-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Mark-Twain-Quotation-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-July-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Mark Twain Quotation – Storytelling in Small Groups – July 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Hitting Below the Belt: “Dirty Fighting” Strategies That Will Always Undermine Effective Conflict Resolution](https://lifesjourney.us/hitting-below-the-belt-dirty-fighting-strategies-that-will-always-undermine-effective-conflict-resolution/) - Hitting Below the Belt: “Dirty Fighting” Strategies That Will Always Undermine Effective Conflict Resolution by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Hitting-Below-the-Belt-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Hitting Below the Belt by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Some Important Elements of Effective Communication by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/some-important-elements-of-effective-communication-by-david-j-decker/) - Some Important Elements of Effective Communication by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Some-Important-Elements-of-Effective-Communication-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Some Important Elements of Effective Communication by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Our Feelings And Emotions by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/our-feelings-and-emotions-by-david-j-decker/) - Our Feelings And Emotions: An Important Part Of What Makes Us Human by David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Our-Feelings-And-Emotions-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Our Feelings And Emotions by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Moving Toward A More Balanced Life As A Man by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/moving-toward-a-more-balanced-life-as-a-man-by-david-j-decker/) - Moving Toward A More Balanced Life As A Man By David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Moving-Toward-A-More-Balanced-Life-As-A-Man-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Moving Toward A More Balanced Life As A Man by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [In the Company of Other Men - The Importance Of Having And Maintaining Male Friendships](https://lifesjourney.us/in-the-company-of-other-men-the-importance-of-having-and-maintaining-male-friendships/) - By David J. Decker [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/In-the-Company-of-Other-Men-The-Importance-Of-Having-And-Maintaining-Male-Friendships-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="In the Company of Other Men – The Importance Of Having And Maintaining Male Friendships by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Oh Grow Up: Unhook from the Cultural Pressure](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-unhook-for-the-cultural-pressure/) - Oh Grow Up: Unhook from the Cultural Pressure - Task 3 “Oh Grow Up” by Dr. Michael Obsatz Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Oh Grow Up: Letting Go of Defenses that You Needed as a Child](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-letting-go-of-defenses-that-you-needed-as-a-child/) - Oh Grow Up: Letting Go of Defenses that You Needed as a Child - Task 2 "Oh Grow Up" by Dr. Michael ObsatzReflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Impact by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/impact-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Impact By Dr. Michael Obsatz – June 2024 Have you made an impact on others during your lifetime? Maybe more than you realize. Some people have said to me: "Remember what you told me thirty years ago..." I am always surprised by those kinds of comments. I believe if we give our insights and - [Psalm 23 - KJV - Storytelling about Spirituality and Religion](https://lifesjourney.us/psalm-23-kjv-storytelling-about-spirituality-and-religion/) - Storytelling in small groups or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Psalm-23-KJV-Storytelling-about-Spirituality-and-Religion-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Psalm 23 – KJV – Storytelling about Spirituality and Religion – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Forgiveness Quotation by Alden Nowlan](https://lifesjourney.us/forgiveness-quotation-by-alden-nowlan/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Forgiveness-Quotation-by-Alden-Nowlan-and-Small-Group-Prompts-June-2023-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Forgiveness Quotation by Alden Nowlan and Small Group Prompts – June 2023 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Listening - Rumi Quotation and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/listening-rumi-quotation-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Listening-Silence-is-the-Ocean-by-Rumi-and-storytelling-in-small-groups-January-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Listening – Silence is the Ocean by Rumi and storytelling in small groups – January 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Friendships Quotation by Joan Chittister and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/friendships-quotation-by-joan-chittister-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Friendships-quotation-by-Joan-Chittister-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-January-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Friendships quotation by Joan Chittister and Storytelling in Small Groups – January 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Joy - Brene Brown Quotation and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/joy-brene-brown-quotation-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Joy-Brene-Brown-Quotation-and-storytelling-in-small-groups-January-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Joy – Brene Brown Quotation and storytelling in small groups – January 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Hospitality Quotation by Joan Chittister and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/hospitality-quotation-by-joan-chittister-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Hospitality-Quotation-by-Joan-Chittister-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-January-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Hospitality Quotation by Joan Chittister and Storytelling in Small Groups – January 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - ["The Invitation" by Oriah Mountain Dreamer and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-invitation-by-oriah-mountain-dreamer-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/The-Invitation-by-Oriah-Mountain-Dreamer-November-2023-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="The Invitation by Oriah Mountain Dreamer – November 2023 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [David Whyte Quotation and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/david-whyte-quotation-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/David-Whyte-quotation-and-storytelling-in-small-groups-January-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="David Whyte quotation and storytelling in small groups – January 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [The Four Stages of Emotional Assimilation - Wild Mind by Bill Plotkin and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-four-stages-of-emotional-assimilation-wild-mind-by-bill-plotkin/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/The-Four-Stages-of-Emotional-Assimilation-Wild-Mind-by-Bill-Plotkin-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-www.lifesjourney.us_.-August-2023.pdf" title="The Four Stages of Emotional Assimilation – Wild Mind by Bill Plotkin – Storytelling in Small Groups – www.lifesjourney.us. – August 2023"] To download click here: - [C.H.E.E.R. Us On by Dr. Michael Obsatz and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/c-h-e-e-r-us-on-by-dr-michael-obsatz-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/C.H.E.ER_.-Us-On-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-Feb.-2024.pdf" title="C.H.E.ER. Us On by Dr. Michael Obsatz and Storytelling in Small Groups – Feb. 2024"] To download click here: - ["Everything is Waiting for You" by David Whyte and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/everything-is-waiting-for-you-by-david-whyte-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Everything-is-Waiting-for-You-by-David-Whyte-and-storytelling-in-small-groups-January-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Everything is Waiting for You by David Whyte and storytelling in small groups – January 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Kahlil Gibran Quote and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/kahlil-gibran-quote-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Kahlil-Gibran-Quote-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-September-2023-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Kahlil Gibran Quote and Storytelling in Small Groups – September 2023 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - ["My Dear, In the Midst of Hate..." by Albert Camus and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/my-dear-in-the-midst-of-hate-by-albert-camus-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/My-Dear-In-the-Midst-of-Hate-by-Albert-Camus-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-October-2023-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="My Dear, In the Midst of Hate by Albert Camus and Storytelling in Small Groups – October 2023 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Dietrich Bonhoeffer Quotation and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/dietrich-bonhoeffer-quote-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Dietrich-Bonhoeffer-Quote-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-September-2023-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Dietrich Bonhoeffer Quote and Storytelling in Small Groups – September 2023 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - ["I Live My Life in Widening Circles" by Rainer Maria Rilke and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/i-live-my-life-in-widening-circles-by-rainer-maria-rilke-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/I-Live-My-Life-in-Widening-Circles-by-Rainer-Maria-Rilke-www.lifesjourney.us-December-2023.pdf" title="I Live My Life in Widening Circles by Rainer Maria Rilke – www.lifesjourney.us – December 2023"] To download click here: - [The Tree of Contemplative Practices and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-tree-of-contemplative-practices-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Tree-of-Contemplative-Practices-Model-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-November-2023-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="The Tree of Contemplative Practices Model and Storytelling in Small Groups – November 2023 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [The Worst Thing by Chelan Harkin and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-worst-thing-by-chelan-harkin-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/The-Worst-Thing-by-Chelan-Harkin-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-September-2023-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="The Worst Thing by Chelan Harkin and Storytelling in Small Groups – September 2023 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Richard Rohr Daily Meditation - An Incarnational Worldview and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/richard-rohr-daily-meditation-an-incarnational-worldview/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Richard-Rohr-Daily-Meditation-An-Incarnational-Worldview-December-20-2023.pdf" title="Richard Rohr Daily Meditation – An Incarnational Worldview – December 20, 2023"] To download click here: - [Pierre Teilhard de Chardin Thoughts about Spirituality and Religion and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/religion-and-spirituality-quotation-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Religion-and-Spirituality-Quotation-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-www.lifesjourney.us-Feb.-2024-rev.-April-2024.pdf" title="Religion and Spirituality Quotation and Storytelling in Small Groups – www.lifesjourney.us – Feb. 2024 – rev. April 2024"] To download click here: - [The Lord's Prayer Translated from Aramaic and English Version and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-lords-prayer-translated-from-aramaic-and-english-version/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/The-Lords-Prayer-Translated-from-Aramaic-and-English-Version-with-Small-Group-Prompts-August-2023-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="The Lords Prayer Translated from Aramaic and English Version with Small Group Prompts – August 2023 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Prayer of an Anonymous Abbess and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/aging-quotation-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Aging-Quotation-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-January-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Aging Quotation and Storytelling in Small Groups – January 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [The journey toward joy by Warren Wolfe and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-journey-toward-joy-by-warren-wolfe-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/The-journey-toward-joy-by-Warren-Wolfe-and-storytelling-in-small-groups-2023.pdf" title="The journey toward joy by Warren Wolfe and storytelling in small groups – 2023"] To download click here: - [Wendell Barry Quotation and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/wendell-barry-quotation-it-may-not-be-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Wendell-Berry-Quotation-It-may-not-be.-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-November-2023-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Wendell Berry Quotation – It may not be… – Storytelling in Small Groups – November 2023 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [The Fourth Sign of the Zodiac (Part 3) by Mary Oliver](https://lifesjourney.us/the-fourth-sign-of-the-zodiac-part-3-by-mary-oliver/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Fourth-Sign-of-the-Zodiac-Part-3-by-Mary-Oliver-and-storytelling-in-small-groups-January-2024-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="The Fourth Sign of the Zodiac – Part 3 by Mary Oliver and storytelling in small groups – January 2024 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Rumi Quotation and Storytelling in Small Group](https://lifesjourney.us/rumi-quotation-and-storytelling-in-small-group/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Rumi-Quotation-Silence-is-an-ocean.-www.lifesjourney.us-September-2023.pdf" title="Rumi Quotation – Silence is an ocean… – www.lifesjourney.us – September 2023"] To download click here: - [Breathe by Becky Hemsley and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/breathe-by-becky-hemsley-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Breathe-by-Becky-Hemsley-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-October-2023-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Breathe by Becky Hemsley and Storytelling in Small Groups – October 2023 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Twenty-Four Nuggets of Wisdom at 81 Years](https://lifesjourney.us/twenty-four-nuggets-of-wisdom-at-81-years/) - Watch this video of Mike sharing about his Twenty-Four Nuggets of Wisdom at age 81 Twenty-Four Nuggets of Wisdom at 81 Years By Dr. Michael Obsatz – January 2023 It is amazing how resilient we are. We are walking miracles. In every challenge there is a hidden blessing. Good, long-term friends are priceless. Selective vulnerability - [Surely the Presence of the Lord is in this Place](https://lifesjourney.us/surely-the-presence-of-the-lord-is-in-this-place/) - Surely the Presence of the Lord is in this Place Song Lyrics for reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Blackbird by The Beatles Song Lyrics](https://lifesjourney.us/blackbird-by-the-beatles-song-lyrics/) - Blackbird by The Beatles Song Lyrics for reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [I Want Patience and I Want It Now](https://lifesjourney.us/i-want-patience-and-i-want-it-now/) - I Want Patience and I Want It Now by Dr. Michael Obsatz When I was a child, my Dad said to me, "Michael, what's your hurry?" I was impatient. I wanted what I wanted and I wanted it NOW. I did not like to "delay gratification." Over the years, I have watched my impatient - [Maintaining Gratitude in a Time of Socially-Distanced Milestones](https://lifesjourney.us/maintaining-gratitude-in-a-time-of-socially-distanced-milestones/) - Maintaining Gratitude in a Time of Socially-Distanced Milestones by Dr. Michael Obsatz GRIEVING OUR LOSSES So many people are missing out on in-person celebrations these days. As we move through Mother's Day, Father's Day, graduations, birthdays, anniversaries and other celebrations this spring and summer, we are forced to develop other ways of saying, "Congratulations, You - [Who Was That Masked Man? or Why We Wear Masks in the Time of COVID-19](https://lifesjourney.us/who-was-that-masked-man-or-why-we-wear-masks-in-the-time-of-covid-19/) - Who Was That Masked Man? or Why We Wear Masks in the Time of COVID-19 by Dr. Michael Obsatz In these days of COVID-19, we are told to wear masks and engage in social distancing in public places by the Center for Disease Control. This is not to protect us, but to protect others from anything - [Missing the Vibrational Energy Exchange](https://lifesjourney.us/missing-the-vibrational-energy-exchange/) - Missing the Vibrational Energy Exchange by Dr. Michael Obsatz We can connect on the phone, or on Zoom. We can see each other on screens. We can hear the feelings within the words of our dear friends. But human, face-to-face contact is different. Being in the same room, looking into each other's eyes, and watching - [Breaking Parental Grip](https://lifesjourney.us/breaking-parental-grip/) - Breaking the Parental Grip: Coping with Overcontrolling Parents by Dr. Michael Obsatz During infancy and childhood, children need their parent's love, attention, support, and guidance. They are being formed and look to parents as role models for how to cope in the world. It is natural for parents of small children to control them since - [Helping Young Kids Overcome Shame](https://lifesjourney.us/helping-young-kids-overcome-shame/) - Helping Young Kids Overcome Shame by Dr. Michael Obsatz Shame is very pervasive in America. Most people have some amount of shame. Some people have been hurt, abandoned, abused, neglected and ridiculed, and have enormous amounts of shame. Books have been written about how shame develops, and what it is. Probably the most well-known author - [Older, Bolder, and Not Done Yet](https://lifesjourney.us/older-bolder-and-not-done-yet/) - Older, Bolder, and Not Done Yet by Dr. Michael Obsatz I have been hearing about how decisions are being made when there are limited medical supplies such as ventilators. Younger people receive preferential treatment over the elderly. It is assumed that once one is past 70, one has lived a full life and is probably - [Coping with Uncertainty: Acting with Integrity and Praying with Zeal](https://lifesjourney.us/coping-with-uncertainty-acting-with-integrity-and-praying-with-zeal/) - Coping with Uncertainty: Acting with Integrity and Praying with Zeal by Dr. Michael Obsatz When I was young, my Dad would say to me: "Man proposes and God disposes." I did not understand what that meant. Much later, as an adult, I read David Richo's book, "The Five Things We Cannot Change." One of those - [Finding JOY in the JOurneY:  Ending the Cycle of Shame and the Need for External Validation ](https://lifesjourney.us/finding-joy-in-the-journey-ending-the-cycle-of-shame-and-the-need-for-external-validation/) - Finding JOY in the JOurneY: Ending the Cycle of Shame and the Need for External Validation By Dr. Michael Obsatz – June 2024 How do we find JOY in the JOurneY? Let's see. Shame is a feeling of worthlessness, and not being enough, not measuring up, failure, being a mistake. Guilt is "I made a - [Legacy: Y - Yearning for Yonder](https://lifesjourney.us/legacy-yearning-for-yonder/) - Legacy: Y - Yearning for Yonder "Legacy" by Dr. Michael ObsatzReflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Legacy: C - Courageous Connections](https://lifesjourney.us/legacy-courageous-connections/) - Legacy: C - Courageous Connections "Legacy" by Dr. Michael ObsatzReflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Legacy: A - Affirming Actions and Availability](https://lifesjourney.us/legacy-affirming-actions-and-availability/) - Legacy: A - Affirming Actions and Availability "Legacy" by Dr. Michael ObsatzReflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Legacy: G - God's Grace, Gratitude and Generosity Storytelling](https://lifesjourney.us/legacy-gods-grace-gratitude-and-generosity-storytelling/) - Legacy: G - God's Grace, Gratitude, and Generosity Storytelling "Legacy" by Dr. Michael ObsatzReflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Legacy: E - Energetic Experiences Storytelling](https://lifesjourney.us/legacy-energetic-experiences-storytelling/) - Legacy: E - Energetic Experiences Storytelling “Legacy” by Dr. Michael Obsatz Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Legacy: L - Love Lessons](https://lifesjourney.us/legacy-l-love-lessons/) - Legacy: L - Love Lessons “Legacy” by Dr. Michael Obsatz Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Mother Teresa Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/mother-teresa-quotation/) - Mother Teresa Quotation for Storytelling Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [David Whyte Quotation for Storytelling](https://lifesjourney.us/david-whyte-quotation-for-storytelling/) - David Whyte Quotation for Storytelling Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Serenity Prayer by Reinhold Niebuhr](https://lifesjourney.us/reinhold-niebuhr-quotation/) - Serenity Prayer by Reinhold Niebuhr Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Aging Grace-Fully - Session Four](https://lifesjourney.us/aging-grace-fully-session-four/) - Aging Grace-Fully Session FourA New Vision for Aging David Tillman – December 2011 As we age it is important to understand health care issues, living options, financial and legal issues, and how we talk to others, as this can enhance our process of aging grace-fully and for those we love. “We plan the way we - [Oneness Consciousness and Empire Consciousness Connection](https://lifesjourney.us/oneness-consciousness-and-empire-consciousness-connection-2/) - Oneness Consciousness and Empire Consciousness Connection Thoughtful quotations to foster small group discussions or personal reflection. To download click here: Link to "Moving from Empire Consciousness to Oneness Consciousness" with video Check out this additional resource: "The Movement from Empire Consciousness to Oneness Consciousness" by Dr. Michael Obsatz To download click here: - [Writing “My Story” Resources for “The Elder World”](https://lifesjourney.us/writing-my-story-resources-for-the-elder-world/) - Writing “My Story” Resources for “The Elder World” Being an Elder Being an Elder – Becoming a Treasure How to Be an Amazing Mentor: 12 Ways to Make a Positive Impact on Others Written by Lindsay Kolowich Cox How to Be an Amazing Mentor: 12 Ways to Make a Positive Impact on Others (hubspot.com) Book: From - [Why Write "My Story?"](https://lifesjourney.us/why-write-my-story/) - Why Write "My Story" - [Living Through a Week of Dying: The Unity Response](https://lifesjourney.us/living-through-a-week-of-dying-the-unity-response/) - Living Through a Week of Dying: The Unity Response By Dr. Michael Obsatz - May 29, 2020 It has been a week of violence, racism, abuse of power, and murder. This is on top of all the challenges of COVID-19. We have reached 100,000 deaths in the United States, more than from several of our - [Be More Aware of People Coming Into Your Life](https://lifesjourney.us/people-coming-into-your-life/) - Be More Aware of People Coming into Your Life by David Tillman Looking back, it is interesting how something I read or heard has stayed with me and enriched my life. In James Redfield's book, The Celestine Prophecy, there was an insight about welcoming people who come into your life. My takeaway is we have - [From Shame-Based Masculinity to Holistic Manhood](https://lifesjourney.us/from-shame-based-masculinity-to-holistic-manhood/) - From Shame-Based Masculinity to Holistic Manhood By Dr. Michael Obsatz When I was a little boy, I was repeatedly shamed and bullied. I was hit and hurt, and told that I was not a “real,” guy. I was put down, ridiculed, made fun of. Being shamed regularly was an attempt to control me, and make - [Hyper-Vigilance and Empire Consciousness: On Being Targeted](https://lifesjourney.us/hyper-vigilance-and-empire-consciousness-on-being-targeted/) - By Dr. Michael Obsatz When you are bullied, you are never free. You are not likely to be spontaneous, carefree, and enjoy life. You are on guard all the time. In one's mind is: "When is the next beating going to happen? Which way is safest to walk home? Who do I need to stay - [Be Gratitude for Today](https://lifesjourney.us/gratitude-for-today/) - Be Grateful for Today by David Tillman – 2019 I am learning to be grateful for the day, for the moment. A new day bringing new opportunities to experience life. When I’m feeling blue, I remind myself that God’s gift of life is enough to be grateful for. Our breath nurtures and sustains us. We - [The Hostile Society](https://lifesjourney.us/the-hostile-society/) - The Hostile Society - [Listening Exercise](https://lifesjourney.us/listening-exercise/) - This Listening Exercise Could Change Your Life by David Tillman “After sixty years I learned how to listen, and it has changed my life. I realized during a listening exercise, as a listener I was often thinking about how I was going to help “fix” the situation which they were talking about. Or as I - [Presence, not Presents](https://lifesjourney.us/presence-not-presents/) - Presence, not Presents By Dr. Michael Obsatz – December 2021 This is the season of shopping, buying, and spending. Commercialized Christmas has become the norm in America. Getting stuff, giving stuff, and wanting stuff. Enough about stuff. What really matters is compassion, connection, listening, loving, and being present. Our presence is the ultimate present. Nothing - [Empire Consciousness, Oneness Consciousness, and Not Taking Anything Personally](https://lifesjourney.us/empire-consciousness-oneness-consciousness-and-not-taking-anything-personally/) - Empire Consciousness, Oneness Consciousness, and "Not Taking Anything Personally" By Dr. Michael Obsatz – December 2022 In his book, "The Four Agreements," Ruiz encourages us to "not take anything personally.” 1 When someone makes a comment to us, we are to see it as their idea, their impression, coming from their framework or lens. When - [Inspirational Living for Ninety Years](https://lifesjourney.us/inspirational-living-for-ninety-years/) - Inspirational Living for Ninety Years: The Losses this Year of Cicely Tyson, Sidney Poitier, Betty White, and Stephen Sondheim by Dr. Michael Obsatz – January 20222021 into this January has been a time of losses of some of the most amazingly insightful talents we have ever known.Earlier this year, we lost Cicely Tyson, African American Actress - [Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/storytelling-in-small-groups/) - Small Group Storytelling or Personal Reflection Healing through Sharing Stories: Past, Present, and Future How do you feel after someone has listened from his or her heart to you share a story that is meaningful to you? by David Tillman As a chaplain, I have witnessed personal healing from people who trusted me to - [Anger and Regret](https://lifesjourney.us/anger-and-regret/) - Anger and Regret by Dr. Michael Obsatz So--we do a lot of things, and life turns out how it does. - [The Not Always Gentle Protective Heart](https://lifesjourney.us/the-not-always-gentle-protective-heart/) - The Not Always Gentle Protective Heart by Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 2022 Moore and Gillette describe four archetypes -- the lover, the warrior, the king/queen, and the magician. I believe there is warrior love -- meaning the sometimes gentle and not so gentle protector. Sometimes the heart may not seem gentle. It may - [The ICING Can Never be the CAKE](https://lifesjourney.us/the-icing-can-never-be-the-cake/) - The ICING Can Never be the CAKE By Dr. Michael Obsatz The cake. We are the cake. The cake means that we are complete, whole, and wonderful. We are loveable as we are. We are connected, sturdy yet vulnerable, and filled with incredible ingredients. We REALLY are the cake. We are LOVEABLE as we are. - [Some Consequences Related to Becoming Punishing, Explosive, and Abusive with Others by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/some-consequences-related-to-becoming-punishing-explosive-and-abusive-with-others-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Some-Consequences-Related-to-Becoming-.-Abusive-to-Others-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Some Consequences Related to Becoming … Abusive to Others by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Empire Consciousness Lessons: Eighteen Lies We Are Taught as Children](https://lifesjourney.us/empire-consciousness-lessons-eighteen-lies-we-are-taught-as-children/) - Empire Consciousness Lessons: Eighteen Lies We Are Taught as Children by Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2023 We are little, powerless, and open to learning as small children. Through our parents, families, and friends, strangers, teachers, and mass media, we learn about the world, and our place in it. Some of the messages are encouraging - [Lifesaver by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/lifesaver-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Lifesaver By Dr. Michael Obsatz – June 2024 . One of my younger buddies and I had lunch together this week. His eight-year-old daughter was staying with his mother. To my surprise, they popped into the restaurant where we were eating. It was good to see his Mom again. I had met her 24 years - [Life Experiences with Covid-19 Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/life-experiences-with-covid-19-menu/) - Life Experiences with Covid-19 Menu The COVID-19 pandemic is changing all aspects of our lives. Our daily routine has changed overnight. Love’s one’s are getting sick. Some are dying from COVID-19. Isolating at home is challenging. Not being able to be with family, friends, classmates, and co-workers is very difficult. Many have lost their - [The Flow of Love](https://lifesjourney.us/the-flow-of-love/) - The Flow of Love: The Three "L's" and Knowing True Joy by Dr. Michael Obsatz – October 2021 We can really feel joy when we know that we are lovable, loved, and loving. Knowing God loves us, and we can feel that in-dwelling Divine love that gives us peace. We don't have to earn it, prove - [Reflections on Life:](https://lifesjourney.us/reflections-on-life/) - Reflections on Life Menu Who are we? How we personally understand the world has a big influence on how we live our lives. It can be helpful and life-changing when we take time to learn about ourselves and how we have been shaped and influenced by our family, schools, community, nation, and the world. Here - [A Compassionate Ear and a Passion for Positive Change](https://lifesjourney.us/a-compassionate-ear-and-a-passion-for-positive-change/) - A Compassionate Ear and a Passion for Positive Change By Dr. Michael Obsatz - January 2021 There Is No Present Like TIME In the movie called "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" about elderly people in India, Judi Dench's character states: "There is no present like time." This, of course, is a take-off on "There is - [Learning How to Listen Changed My Life](https://lifesjourney.us/listening/) - Learning How to Listen Changed My Life by David Tillman - 2020 As a chaplain, I have met so many wonderful and interesting people. After I introduce myself, I often ask, “how are you today?” Based on their response, I try to let them lead the conversation. I will often repeat back a few words, paraphrase, - [How Are You Doing On Your Life's Journey?](https://lifesjourney.us/how-are-you-doing-on-your-lifes-journey/) - How Are You Doing on Your Life's Journey? by David Tillman - 2018 The metaphor I am drawn to as I think of our life journey is that of a river flowing to the sea. Years ago, I went on a rafting trip through the Grand Canyon. I remember that each bend in the river - [Mending Torn Relationships](https://lifesjourney.us/elementor-277/) - Mending Torn Relationships by David Tillman Many years ago, I took a class about how we relate to each other. Our teacher challenged us to take the lead in mending torn relationships. She said to find a way in your heart to reconnect. Letting go of resentments, judgments, and words said, or not said, just - [Trauma Consciousness: Erosion of Trust by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/trauma-consciousness-erosion-of-trust-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Trauma Consciousness: Erosion of Trust By Dr. Michael Obsatz – May 2024 We need to understand that those who experienced massive trauma in their lives see life differently than those who have not. People who suffer historically, people who have been enslaved, oppressed, violated, and abused live in fear. They need to feel safe and - [Re-Charging My Battery by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/re-charging-my-battery-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Re-Charging My Battery by Dr. Michael Obsatz – April 2024 There are various items that I must charge regularly to keep them going. My electric toothbrush is one. My cell phone is another. And I have a charger for my car battery when it gets too low. I don't drive it all that much. I - [Some Different Types of Intimacy in Partner Relationships](https://lifesjourney.us/some-different-types-of-intimacy-in-partner-relationships/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IntimacyTypes.pdf"] To download click here: - [Radical Resilience and Our Souls' Purpose by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/radical-resilience-and-our-souls-purpose-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - "Radical Resilience" and Our Souls' Purpose by Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2024 It is remarkable how resilient we are. We are blessed to be able to bounce back from disappointment, betrayal, negativity, criticism, bullying, loss, and hurt. Richard Rohr calls this ability "radical resilience." When we look at our life's challenges, it is amazing what we - [Why It Can Be Difficult for Women to Leave Abusive Relationships](https://lifesjourney.us/why-it-can-be-difficult-for-women-to-leave-abusive-relationships/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Why-It-Can-Be-Difficult-for-Women-to-Leave-Abusive-Relationships-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Why It Can Be Difficult for Women to Leave Abusive Relationships by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [What We Can Do About Domestic Violence by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/what-we-can-do-about-domestic-violence-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/What-We-Can-Do-About-Domestic-Violence-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="What We Can Do About Domestic Violence by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Helpful Hints to Writing "My Story"](https://lifesjourney.us/helpful-hints-to-writing-my-story/) - To download click here: - [Avoid Sickness in the Home With These Simple Steps](https://lifesjourney.us/avoid-sickness-in-the-home-with-these-simple-steps/) - Avoid Sickness in the Home With These Simple Steps by Gwen Payne – September 2022 There are many ways your home can make you sick without you even realizing it. From invisible mold spores to lead in your water, several potential environmental hazards are lurking in your Minnesota home and can cause health issues from - [Selective Vulnerability by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/selective-vulnerability-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Selective Vulnerability By Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2024 It is important to express one's authentic self -- with wants, needs and feelings. But it is also helpful if one is careful about where, how, and with whom one expresses oneself. There are safe places, and unsafe places. There are safe people, and unsafe people. - [Human Shadow Awareness Offers Healing](https://lifesjourney.us/human-shadow-awareness-offers-healing/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Awareness-of-Our-Human-Shadow-Offers-Healing-by-Dr-Michael-Obsatz-and-David-Tillman-Sept.-2020-rev.-2024a.pdf" title="Awareness of Our Human Shadow Offers Healing by Dr Michael Obsatz and David Tillman – Sept. 2020 – rev. 2024a"] To download click here: - [The Four Life-Affirming Declarations of Interdependence by Dr. Michael Obsatz and Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-four-life-affirming-declarations-of-interdependence-by-dr-michael-obsatz-and-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/The-Four-Life-Affirming-Declarations-of-Interdependence-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-and-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-Feb.-2024.pdf" title="The Four Life-Affirming Declarations of Interdependence by Dr. Michael Obsatz and Storytelling in Small Groups – Feb. 2024"] To download click here: - [The Four Life-Affirming Declarations of Interdependence](https://lifesjourney.us/the-four-life-affirming-declarations-of-interdependence/) - The Four Life-Affirming Declarations of Interdependence By Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 2023 The world can seem like a scary and hostile place sometimes. Life has many ups and downs, gains, and losses. We are inundated by messages of who we are supposed to be, and what we are supposed to do. These four life-affirming - [The Story of an Angry Person by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/the-story-of-an-angry-person-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/The-Story-of-an-Angry-Person-by-David-J.-Decker-www.angeresources.com_.pdf" title="The Story of an Angry Person by David J. Decker – www.angeresources.com"] To download click here: - [Richard Rohr - The Five Promises of Male Initiation](https://lifesjourney.us/richard-rohr-the-five-promises-of-male-initiation/) - Fr. Richard Rohr - The Five Promises of Male Initiation Thoughtful quotations to foster small group discussions or personal reflection. Download version without Bible verses: - [Move to Empowerment by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/move-to-empowerment-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Move-To-Empowerment-by-David-J.-Decker-www.ANGEResources.com_.pdf" title="Move To Empowerment by David J. Decker – www.ANGEResources.com"] To download click here: - [Stop the Abuse by David J Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/stop-the-abuse-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Stop-The-Abuse-by-David-J.-Decker-www.ANGEResoures.com_.pdf" title="Stop The Abuse by David J. Decker – www.ANGEResoures.com"] To download click here: - [Empowerment Is by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/empowerment-is-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Empowerment-Is-by-David-J-Decker.pdf" title="Empowerment Is by David J Decker"] To download click here: - [Every Day is Christmas -- A Unity Christmas Carol by Dr Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/every-day-is-christmas-a-unity-christmas-carol-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - - - Every Day is Christmas — A Unity Christmas Carolby Dr. Michael Obsatz – December 2023(to the tune of “I’ll be home for Christmas”)Every day is ChristmasSending love throughout the world.Seeing the Divine in everyoneAnd a Oneness flag unfurled.Taking care of earth’s resourcesAnd making peace my goal.Every day is ChristmasI feel it in my soul.Every Day is - [Moving from Sin and Error Pining to the Real Meaning of Christmas - Lovers of All of Creation](https://lifesjourney.us/moving-from-sin-and-error-pining-to-the-real-meaning-of-christmas-lovers-of-all-of-creation/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Moving-from-Sin-and-Error-Pining-to-the-Real-Meaning-of-Christmas-Lovers-of-All-of-Creation-by-Dr.-Michael-Obsatz-December-2023.pdf" title="Moving from Sin and Error Pining to the Real Meaning of Christmas – Lovers of All of Creation by Dr. Michael Obsatz – December 2023"] To download click here: - [None of us can control the future](https://lifesjourney.us/none-of-us-can-control-the-future/) - None of Us Can Control the Future Thoughtful quotations to foster small group discussions or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Richard-Moss-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-January-2021-rev-11-23.pdf" title="Richard Moss Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – January 2021 rev 11 23"]To download click here: - [Some Assumptions about Intimate Relationships by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/some-assumptions-about-intimate-relationships-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Some-Assumptions-about-Intimate-Relationships-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Some Assumptions about Intimate Relationships by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [The Anatomy of an Argument that Spins Out of Control by David. J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/the-anatomy-of-an-argument-that-spins-out-of-control-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/The-Anatomy-of-an-Argument-that-Spins-Out-of-Control-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="The Anatomy of an Argument that Spins Out of Control by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [What Do You Mean I'm Being Controlling by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/what-do-you-mean-im-being-controlling-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/What-Do-You-A-Mean-I-am-Being-Controlling-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="What Do You A Mean I am Being Controlling by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Shame Is by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/shame-is-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Shame-Is-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Shame Is by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Relationships](https://lifesjourney.us/relationships-2/) - Understanding Relationships by David Tillman Trying to understand and make sense of a relationship, especially after it has ended, takes time and reflection. I was talking to my friend Eric one day and he shared a way of looking at relationships that has helped me. Eric told me, there are three types of relationships: casual, assignment, - [Oneness Consciousness and Empire Consciousness Connection](https://lifesjourney.us/oneness-consciousness-and-empire-consciousness-connection/) - Oneness Consciousness and Empire Consciousness Connection Model Here is a model to better understand the connection between Oneness Consciousness and Empire Consciousness. Some people see and experience more clearly Oneness Consciousness while living in a predominantly Empire Consciousness culture.1. All is Oneness, connected with the entire Universe. 2. Empire Consciousness is created from fear, the - [Who Are In Your Circle of Family and Friends?](https://lifesjourney.us/who-are-in-your-circle-of-family-and-friends/) - Who Are In Your Circle of Family and Friends? Who are in your circle of family and friends today? On the worksheet, print the names of family and friends you interact with daily, weekly, monthly, or once or twice a year. Write your family and friends' names into each circle. The inner circle is the - [Improving Yourself: A Comprehensive Guide to Self-Improvement by Gwen Payne](https://lifesjourney.us/improving-yourself-a-comprehensive-guide-to-self-improvement-by-gwen-payne/) - Improving Yourself: A Comprehensive Guide to Self-Improvement Are you looking to improve your life, but not sure where to start? The good news is that self-improvement doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. There are several simple steps you can take to improve your physical health, mental health, and overall well-being. In this article shared - [From Self-Doubt to True Potential: How to Defeat Imposter Syndrome by Gwen Payne](https://lifesjourney.us/from-self-doubt-to-true-potential-how-to-defeat-imposter-syndrome-by-gwen-payne/) - From Self-Doubt to True Potential: How to Defeat Imposter Syndrome The invisible walls of imposter syndrome can seriously impede career growth and personal development. This Life’s Journey article aims to empower you to fully capitalize on your talents by diving into practical steps for tackling this all-too-common psychological barrier. Shedding the weight of self-doubt is - [Cultivate Your Garden](https://lifesjourney.us/cultivate-your-garden/) - Cultivate Your Garden: Journeying Through Life With Few Expectations or Agendas by Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2022 We travel through life from the time we are born until we die. We go many places, meet many people, and have a wide variety of experiences. Some of these experiences bring us joy, others bring us pain. - [Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Work World](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-our-many-worlds-the-work-world/) - Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Work World by Dr. Michael Obsatz [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/The-Work-World-Navigating-Our-Many-Worlds-Dr-Michael-Obsatz-February-2021-rev-2023.pdf" title="The Work World – Navigating Our Many Worlds – Dr Michael Obsatz – February 2021 – rev 2023"] To download click here: - [Who Are We to Think as if We are Right?](https://lifesjourney.us/who-are-we-to-think-as-if-we-are-right/) - Who Are We to Think as if We are Right? By David Tillman – December 2022 I’m curious, who are we to think, believe, and act as if we are right? That we alone hold the ultimate and only truth. We embody stardust given to us by our creator. Stardust, before us, has been part - [A Prayer for the Journey: From Empire to Oneness Consciousness](https://lifesjourney.us/a-prayer-for-the-journey-from-empire-to-oneness-consciousness/) - A Prayer for the Journey: From Empire to Oneness Consciousness by Dr. Michael Obsatz – October 2023 The news is filled with war, violence, and crime. In my circle of people, there are repeated cases of illness, depression, loneliness, and despair. I try to be a good listener, and be a support for dozens of people, - [Time Out - They're Not Just For Kids](https://lifesjourney.us/time-out-they-are-not-just-for-kids/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Time-Out-They-are-Not-Just-For-Kids-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Time Out – They are Not Just For Kids by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [Is Your Anger a Problem? by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/is-your-anger-a-problem-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Is-Your-Anger-A-Problem-by-David.-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Is Your Anger A Problem by David. J. Decker"] To download click here: - [The Power of Self-Talk by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/the-power-of-self-talk-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/The-Power-of-Self-Talk-by-David-J.-Decker-www.angeresources.pdf" title="The Power of Self-Talk by David J. Decker – www.angeresources"] To download click here: - [The Gentle Art of Listening by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/the-gentle-art-of-listening-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/The-Gentle-Art-of-Listening-by-David-J.-Decker-www.angeresources.pdf" title="The Gentle Art of Listening by David J. Decker – www.angeresources"] To download click here: - [The Rules of Shame-Based Systems by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/the-rules-of-shame-based-systems-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/The-Rules-of-Shame-Based-Systems-by-David-J.-Decker-www.angeresources.pdf" title="The Rules of Shame-Based Systems by David J. Decker – www.angeresources"] To download click here: - [Some Myths about Love - Intimacy and Relationships by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/some-myths-about-love-intimacy-and-relationships-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Some-Myths-about-Love-Intimacy-and-Relationships-by-David-J.-Decker-www.angeresources.pdf" title="Some Myths about Love – Intimacy and Relationships by David J. Decker – www.angeresources"] To download click here: - [The Foundations of Effective Anger Management by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/the-foundations-of-effective-anger-management-by-david-j-decker/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/The-Foundations-of-Effective-Anger-Management-by-David-J.-Decker-www.angeresources.pdf" title="The Foundations of Effective Anger Management by David J. Decker – www.angeresources"] To download click here: - [Trusting:  Strategic Discernment and Selective Vulnerability](https://lifesjourney.us/trusting-strategic-discernment-and-selective-vulnerability/) - Trusting: Strategic Discernment and Selective Vulnerability By Dr. Michael Obsatz – May 2023 In our lives, there are people we can trust, and people we can't trust. It is sometimes very challenging to discern who fits into each category. Erik Erickson, a psychologist, wrote that trust vs. mistrust is the first developmental stage of emotional - [Life is an Evolving Door](https://lifesjourney.us/life-is-an-evolving-door/) - Life is an Evolving Door By Dr. Michael Obsatz – August 2023 Every day is a new beginning. Every day provides opportunities to give, love, share, grow, challenge, experience, and learn. Seeing life this way means that we are evolving all the time. We change, gain wisdom, become older, and have new challenges. Never a - [Healthy Relationships](https://lifesjourney.us/healthy-relationships/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Healthy-Relationships-by-David-J.-Decker.pdf" title="Healthy Relationships by David J. Decker"] To download click here: - [From Shallow to Hallowed: From Empire Consciousness to Oneness Consciousness](https://lifesjourney.us/from-shallow-to-hallowed-from-empire-consciousness-to-oneness-consciousness/) - From Shallow to Hallowed: From Empire Consciousness to Oneness Consciousness By Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2023 Peter Mayer wrote "Everything is Holy Now," a beautiful spiritual reminder about how he learned to see the extraordinary in the ordinary. It seems like we have a big choice to make: Do we live in the shallow - [Anger: What Is It and What It Isn't by David J. Decker](https://lifesjourney.us/anger-what-is-it-by-david-j-decker/) - Anger: A Normal and Natural Human Emotion: What Is It and What It Isn't by David J. Decker - www.angeresources.com [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Anger-What-It-Is-by-David-J-Decker-www.angeresources.com_.pdf" title="Anger What It Is by David J Decker – www.angeresources.com"] To download click here: - [Overcoming Praise Addiction -- Day by Day](https://lifesjourney.us/overcoming-praise-addiction-day-by-day/) - Overcoming Praise Addiction -- Day by Day By Dr. Michael Obsatz – May 2023 We learn early on to please those who have power over us and take care of us. We are taught to "do what we are told" and when we do, we are often praised for it. If we "don't do what - [Oneness Consciousness:  Not Letting Our Emotional Wounds Define Us](https://lifesjourney.us/oneness-consciousness-not-letting-our-emotional-wounds-define-us/) - Oneness Consciousness: Not Letting Our Emotional Wounds Define Us By Dr. Michael Obsatz – May 2023 We have all been wounded emotionally. Some of us have been hurt more than others. Emotional and physical abandonment cause wounds. We are wounded emotionally by our parents, caregivers, family members, friends, and strangers. "Not being loved for who - [Appreciating God's Back-Up Singers](https://lifesjourney.us/appreciating-gods-back-up-singers/) - Appreciating God's Back-Up Singers By Dr. Michael Obsatz – May 2023 I recently watched a movie called "Twenty Feet from Stardom," about back-up singers and how little credit they have gotten for participating in the making of harmonious, incredible music. It started me thinking about all the people who are behind the scenes, keeping our - [Changing Your Negative Self-Talk](https://lifesjourney.us/changing-your-negative-self-talk/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/ChangeNegativeSelfTalk.pdf"] To download click here: - [A Conflict Resolution Model](https://lifesjourney.us/a-conflict-resolution-model/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/ConflictResolutionModel.pdf"] To download click here: - [BookScouter: Book Price Comparison Website](https://lifesjourney.us/bookscouter-book-price-comparison-website/) - BookScouter: Book Price Comparison Website That Helps to Check Out the Best Price on the Go With textbooks getting more expensive after each new addition, it’s only natural that students and readers want to get the best deals on books they’ll only use for a semester. And then, after that semester, they want to resell - [The Big Good-Bye: Don't Let Them Steal Another Day](https://lifesjourney.us/the-big-good-bye-dont-let-them-steal-another-day/) - The Big Good-Bye: Don't Let Them Steal Another Day By Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2023 When you hang around with people who abuse, shame or hurt you in any way, you are giving them your time, your freedom, your attention, your heart, and your life energy. They are stealing your life force from you. - [Victims of Bullying: Loss of Childhood, Freedom and Spontaneity](https://lifesjourney.us/victims-of-bullying-loss-of-childhood-freedom-and-spontaneity/) - Victims of Bullying: Loss of Childhood, Freedom and Spontaneity By Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 2023 Recently, a young adolescent girl who was bullied by other girls killed herself. It seemed like a wake-up call for some -- about the devastating effects of this "normalized" behavior on many children, adolescents, and adults. A lot has - [Spirit-Centered Living in an Empire-Obsessed World](https://lifesjourney.us/spirit-centered-living-in-an-empire-obsessed-world/) - Spirit-Centered Living in an Empire-Obsessed World By Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 2023 Jesus pleaded to us to be IN the world, but not OF the world. For Jesus, the world was filled with negativity, hatred, and violence. We have to live IN the world, but we don't have to take on the many worldly ways - [Some Different Styles of Communicating With Other People](https://lifesjourney.us/some-different-styles-of-communicating-with-other-people/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CommunicationStyles.pdf"] To download click here: - [Understanding Your Shame](https://lifesjourney.us/understanding-your-shame/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/UnderstandingShame.pdf"] To download click here: - [From Empire Consciousness to Oneness Consciousness by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/from-empire-consciousness-to-oneness-consciousness-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - From Empire Consciousness to Oneness Consciousness by Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 2023 Don't Fester Don't Pester Let go of Yesterday Be a Beamer Be a Dreamer And the Redeemer Will Come Your Way Let your Light Shine And all will be fine Celebrate life And a great life Will be yours today Move from - [Mass Shootings, and the Tyre Nichols Massacre... by Dr. Michael Obsatz](https://lifesjourney.us/mass-shootings-and-the-tyre-nichols-massacre-by-dr-michael-obsatz/) - Mass Shootings, and the Tyre Nichols Massacre: The Powerlessness/Fear/Domination/Destruction Instinct Gone Crazy by Dr. Michael Obsatz – January 2023 In Empire Consciousness, there is a fear/domination belief. The world is "we vs. them." There is scarcity. Either kill or be killed. You can't trust anyone. Everyone is my enemy, a potential criminal. Hierarchy is essential - [The World's Wounds](https://lifesjourney.us/the-worlds-wounds/) - The World's Wounds by Dr. Michael Obsatz – January 2023 How do we attempt to heal the world's wounds? These wounds are ecological, physical, emotional, and spiritual. The world is suffering due to Empire Consciousness. This type of awareness of the belief system has existed for centuries. It is about separation, division, hierarchy, and scarcity. - [Our Human Woundedness - How Do We Heal It?](https://lifesjourney.us/our-human-woundedness-how-do-we-heal-it/) - Our Human Woundedness - How Do We Heal It? By Dr. Michael Obsatz – January 2023 We realize that we were wounded by people who didn't know how to treat us. They couldn't love us because they weren't spiritually connected and didn't love themselves. Healing the wound is realizing the wound was never about - [Insights from “Aging” by Henri J.M. Nouwen](https://lifesjourney.us/insights-from-aging-by-henri-j-m-nouwen/) - Insights from “Aging” by Henri J.M. Nouwen by David Tillman - October 2011 Paper for Class: Ministry with Older Adults, United Theological Seminary, MN The book “Aging” by Henri J.M. Nouwen has expanded my formulation and understanding of my own aging process which reshapes my theology and practice of ministry. (1) I have found other - [Oh, Grow Up, Legacy, and Aging Grace-Fully](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-and-aging/) - This section of Life’s Journey reflects on growing up, leaving your legacy, and aging grace-fully. Dr. Michael Obsatz’s, Oh Grow Up, outlines Ten Tasks for Mature Wholeness. From unhooking from our biological family of origin, to letting go of defenses that you needed as a child that no longer serve you, and to find your - [Dante Alighieri Quotation - Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/dante-alighieri-quotation-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - Dante Alighieri Quotation Storytelling in Small Groups Storytelling in small groups or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Dante-Alighieri-Quotation-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-January-2023-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Dante Alighieri Quotation – Storytelling in Small Groups – January 2023 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Wendell Berry The Peace of Wild Things and Small Group Discussion Prompts](https://lifesjourney.us/wendell-berry-the-peace-of-wild-things-and-small-group-discussion-prompts/) - Wendell Berry Quotation for Storytelling Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Wendell-Berry-Quotation-The-Peace-of-Wild-Things-www.lifesjourney.us-August-2022.pdf" title="Wendell Berry Quotation – The Peace of Wild Things – www.lifesjourney.us – August 2022"] To Download Click Here: - [Choosing the Prophetic Path - Richard Rohr and CAC](https://lifesjourney.us/choosing-the-prophetic-path-richard-rohr-and-cac/) - Choosing the Prophetic Path Richard Rohr and Center for Action and Contemplation January 1 2023 Daily Meditation [1] Listen to Richard Rohr 7-minute talk about “Choosing the Prophetic Path” by clicking on the YouTube link below: https://cac.org/daily-meditations/2023-daily-meditations/ or directly go to YouTube video: https://youtu.be/3Ks5uh2qCb8?t=6 On this New Year’s Day, we invite you to explore the - [The Stream - A Sufi Story - Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/the-stream-a-sufi-story/) - The Stream - A Sufi Story Storytelling in Small Groups Storytelling in small groups or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/The-Stream-A-Sufi-Story-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="The Stream – A Sufi Story – Storytelling in Small Groups – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Wendel Berry Quotation on Vocation](https://lifesjourney.us/wendel-berry-quotation-on-vocation/) - Wendel Berry Quotation on Vocation Storytelling with Family Storytelling in small groups or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Wendell-Berry-Quotation-on-Vocation-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Wendell Berry Quotation on Vocation – Storytelling in Small Groups – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Writing "My Story" Resources for "The Family World"](https://lifesjourney.us/writing-my-story-resources-for-the-family-world/) - Writing "My Story" Resources for "The Family World" Here are some resources to help you write your "My Story" second section "The Family World." You can download a pdf of the resources outlined below by clicking the link below. May your reflection and writing go well. To download click here: - [Parker Palmer Quotation on Solitude - Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/parker-palmer-quotation-on-solitude-storytelling-in-small-groups/) - Parker Palmer Quotation on Solitude Storytelling in Small Groups Storytelling in small groups or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Parker-Palmer-Quotation-on-Solitude-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Parker Palmer Quotation on Solitude – Storytelling in Small Groups – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Psalm 23 - NRSV - Storytelling about Spirituality and Religion](https://lifesjourney.us/psalm-23-storytelling-about-spirituality-and-religion/) - Psalm 23 - NRSV Storytelling about Spirituality and Religion Storytelling in small groups or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Psalm-23-Storytelling-about-Spirituality-and-Religion-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Psalm 23 – Storytelling about Spirituality and Religion – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Kindness Quotation by Jackie Chan](https://lifesjourney.us/kindness-quotation-by-jackie-chan/) - "Kindness" Quotation by Jackie Chan for Storytelling with Family Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Kindness-Quotation-by-Jackie-Chan-and-Small-Group-Prompts-August-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Kindness Quotation by Jackie Chan and Small Group Prompts – August 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Rod T. Bennett Quotation on Dreams Storytelling with Family](https://lifesjourney.us/rod-t-bennett-quotation-on-dreams-storytelling-with-family/) - Rod T. Bennett Quotation on Dreams Storytelling with Family Storytelling in small groups or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Dreams-Roy-T.-Bennett-Quotation-Storytelling-with-Family-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Dreams – Roy T. Bennett Quotation – Storytelling with Family – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Trust - Benjamin Spock Quotation for Storytelling with Family](https://lifesjourney.us/trust-benjamin-spock-quotation-for-storytelling-with-family/) - Trust - Benjamin Spock Quotation for Storytelling with Family Storytelling in small groups or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Benjamin-Spock-Quotation-on-Trust-Storytelling-in-Family-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.-us.pdf" title="Benjamin Spock Quotation on Trust – Storytelling in Family – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney. us"] To download click here: - [Don't Make Assumptions: "Souls in Smaller Bodies" are the Real Christmas Message](https://lifesjourney.us/dont-make-assumptions-souls-in-smaller-bodies-are-the-real-christmas-message/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Dont-Make-Assumptions...-Dr-Michael-Obsatz-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Dont Make Assumptions… – Dr Michael Obsatz- December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Benjamin Spock Quotation on Trust](https://lifesjourney.us/benjamin-spock-quotation-on-trust/) - Storytelling with Family Benjamin Spock Quotation on Trust Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Benjamin-Spock-Quotation-on-Trust-Storytelling-in-Family-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.-us.pdf" title="Benjamin Spock Quotation on Trust – Storytelling in Family – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney. us"] To download click here: - [Responsibility - Storytelling with Family](https://lifesjourney.us/responsibility-storytelling-with-family/) - Responsibility - Quotation by Brian Tracy Storytelling with Family Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Responsibility-Storytelling-in-Small-Groups-December-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Responsibility – Storytelling in Small Groups – December 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [Christmas, Oneness Consciousness, and the Delivery Man](https://lifesjourney.us/christmas-oneness-consciousness-and-the-delivery-man/) - Christmas, Oneness Consciousness, and the Delivery Man By Dr. Michael Obsatz – November 2022 The Christmas song, "Mary, Did You Know?" has a line in it that states, "the child who you delivered will soon deliver you." It is a powerful message and equates the birthing of a child with "deliverance" for its mother. To - [What Jesus Taught and St. Francis Reminded Us About](https://lifesjourney.us/what-jesus-taught-and-st-francis-reminded-us-about/) - What Jesus Taught and St. Francis Reminded Us About: What Everyone Needs to Learn about Healthy, Mature Spiritual Living by Dr. Michael Obsatz – August 2022 How to Live a Love-Filled Life Love and trust God See the Divinity in Everyone, and the Oneness of all of creation Love yourself, and be good to yourself - [There are always 44 Things Are Going On In Your Life](https://lifesjourney.us/44-things/) - There Are Always 44 Things Going On In Your Life by David Tillman there are always 44 things going on in your lifethings to think about,to worry about,to talk about,to cry about someone asked a wise person how can I free myself of these 44 things?the wise person said you have 45 things going on - [Richard Rohr Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/richard-rohr-quotation/) - Richard Rohr Quotation Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection.[pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Richard-Rohr-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-January-2021-rev.-2022.pdf" title="Richard Rohr Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – January 2021 – rev. 2022"] To download click here: - [Exploring the Changes Brought on By COVID-19](https://lifesjourney.us/exploring-the-changes-brought-on-by-covid-19/) - A World After: Exploring the Changes Brought on By COVID-19 by Gwen Payne - October 2022 For many people, the pandemic has been a time of great upheaval, and while some changes have been blessings in disguise, others have proven difficult to manage. Here's a look at some of COVID-19’s impacts on employment, family dynamics, - [Gratitude - Storytelling with Family](https://lifesjourney.us/gratitude-storytelling-with-family/) - "Gratitude" Quotation by Roy T. Bennett for Storytelling Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Gratitude-Storytelling-with-Family-www.lifesjourney.us-7.pdf" title="Gratitude – Storytelling with Family – www.lifesjourney.us (7)"] To download click here: - [We Have Overcome This Day](https://lifesjourney.us/we-have-overcome-this-day/) - We Have Overcome This Day By Dr. Michael Obsatz – October 2022 We have all been wounded emotionally. Some of us have been abused physically or sexually. Others have been shamed. Some of us have endured beatings. Others have been harassed and verbally abused. Many of us have experienced losses of loved ones. It is - [The Trauma of "Proving Manhood"](https://lifesjourney.us/the-trauma-of-proving-manhood/) - The Trauma of "Proving Manhood" By Dr. Michael Obsatz Boys growing up in America experience trauma. They don’t have to come from dysfunctional families or poor neighborhoods. This is a rash statement, but from my 50 years of working with boys and men, I have concluded that the male socialization process can be traumatic for - [MAN-ifest Destiny: Teaching Our Sons About Healthy Manhood](https://lifesjourney.us/man-ifest-destiny-teaching-our-sons-about-healthy-manhood/) - MAN-ifest Destiny: Teaching Our Sons About Healthy Manhood By Dr. Michael Obsatz In this technological age, it is easy to get lost in the noise, clutter, and machines, and lose face-to-face connections. What’s important may become trivial, and what’s trivial can seem very important. There are still limiting messages out there about what it means - [Create a Travel Log of Your Vacations](https://lifesjourney.us/create-a-travel-log-of-your-vacations/) - Create a Travel Log of Your Vacations by David Tillman – October 2022 Take time to create a travel log of your vacations. You may be amazed to the places you have visited. Use the attached “Travel Log Worksheet” or create one that works better for you. You can add the names of the people - [Why So Many Mass Shootings? What Men and Boys Really Need that They Don't Receive.](https://lifesjourney.us/why-so-many-mass-shootings-what-men-and-boys-really-need-that-they-dont-receive/) - Why So Many Mass Shootings? What Men and Boys Really Need that They Don't Receive By Dr. Michael Obsatz – June 2022 There is a hole in the heart for many young men and boys these days. Some are hurting so badly that they become depressed. Others become violent and take out their anger, pain, - [Our DESTINY Is To See Our DIVINITY Amidst Our DIVERSITY](https://lifesjourney.us/our-destiny-is-to-see-our-divinity-amidst-our-diversity/) - Our DESTINY Is To See Our DIVINITY Amidst Our DIVERSITYby Dr. Michael Obsatz, June 2020 It is our DESTINY to see the DIVINITY in all of the DIVERSITY around us. There is one world, one people, one power, one energy, and one heart. ONENESSWithin this collective ONENESS are individuality, uniqueness, and a multiplicity of traits, characteristics, - [Celebrating the Divine Masculine](https://lifesjourney.us/celebrating-the-divine-masculine/) - Celebrating the Divine Masculine By Dr. Michael Obsatz – June 2020 Each of us has both Divine masculine and Divine feminine energies. Father’s Day marks the celebration of the Divine masculine in every person. Masculine energy is the assertive, protective, active, and peace-loving energy in service to Oneness Consciousness, love, and equality. Fathers can be - [Empire Consciousness, Oppression, and the Dehumanization Process](https://lifesjourney.us/empire-consciousness-oppression-and-the-dehumanization-process/) - Empire Consciousness, Oppression, and the Dehumanization Process by Dr. Michael Obsatz, June 2020 To dehumanize people means to create an image of them that presents them as less than human. They are not really worthy of the rights, considerations, and fair treatment by others. Dehumanization is part of Empire Consciousness, which is about power, domination, - [Self-Compassion as Spiritual Practice:](https://lifesjourney.us/self-compassion-as-spiritual-practice/) - Self-Compassion as Spiritual Practice: I am Not the Mistakes that I Have Made By Dr. Michael Obsatz - April 2022 India Arie has recorded a beautiful song called "I am Light." One of the lines in the song is "I am not the mistakes I have made... I am light." This week, I talked to - [Trustworthy Long-Term Consistent Mentoring](https://lifesjourney.us/trustworthy-long-term-consistent-mentoring/) - Trustworthy Long-Term Consistent Mentoring: The Antidote to Empire Consciousness, Childhood Trauma, Oppression, Abuse, and Abandonment By Dr. Michael ObsatzDr. Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey have written a book about childhood trauma called “What Happened to You?” One of the problems with early childhood trauma is that it changes the victim’s brain chemistry. There is a fear - [Fear Verses Compassion](https://lifesjourney.us/fear-verses-compassion/) - Fear Verses Compassion by Dr. Michael Obsatz Fear of not having enough, of scarcity, or limitation has always fueled our economy. This time is one where we can learn about many of our fears - fear of loss of control, fear of being ill, fear of dying, fear of isolation, fear of not having enough. - [Chronically Anger People](https://lifesjourney.us/chronically-anger-people/) - Chronically Angry People by Dr. Michael Obsatz We all know someone who is chronically angry. This means that they are usually angry, upset, critical, and judgmental. We joke about them and say “They must have gotten up on the wrong side of the bed.” Underneath their anger is often emotional pain, and they don’t show - [Healing the World's Pain](https://lifesjourney.us/healing-the-worlds-pain/) - Healing the World's Pain by Dr. Michael Obsatz – September 2021 There is a lot of pain and suffering in the world. Some of this is unavoidable and can't be helped. Other pain and suffering are caused by actions, thoughts, beliefs, and circumstances created by other human beings. Some pain is physical, and some is - [The Ultimate Shame-Buster: Overcoming Shame Through Spiritual Connection](https://lifesjourney.us/the-ultimate-shame-buster-overcoming-shame-through-spiritual-connection/) - The Ultimate Shame-Buster: Overcoming Shame Through Spiritual Connection by Dr. Michael Obsatz "God Don't Make No Junk"Shame is pervasive in all cultures. Shame is a feeling of unworthiness, incompetence, and self-hatred. Empire Consciousness promotes shame by creating a hierarchy of the powerful at the top and the powerless at the bottom. One is always striving - [Oh Grow Up: Live Fully, Play, Be Spontaneous](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-live-fully-play-be-spontaneous/) - Oh Grow Up: Live Fully, Play, Be Spontaneous Task 10 "Oh Grow Up" by Dr. Michael Obsatz Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Oh-Grow-Up-Live-Fully-Play-Be-Spontaneous-Dr-Michael-Obsatz-www.lifesjourney.us-January-2021-rev-9-22-.pdf" title="Oh Grow Up – Live Fully Play Be Spontaneous – Dr Michael Obsatz – www.lifesjourney.us – January 2021 rev 9-22"] To download click here: - [Toxic Indoctrination into Empire Consciousness](https://lifesjourney.us/toxic-indoctrination-into-empire-consciousness/) - Toxic Indoctrination into Empire Consciousness by Dr. Michael Obsatz – August 2022 As babies and children, we absorb information like sponges. We believe what we are told because we are helpless and small. We receive a toxic indoctrination into Empire Consciousness early in our lives. This way of being in the world involves: Competition Hierarchy Scarcity - - [Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Grandparent World](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-our-many-worlds-the-grandparent-world/) - Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Grandparent World by Dr. Michael Obsatz - [Trust, Abuse, Disillusionment, Betrayal, Anger, and Forgiveness](https://lifesjourney.us/trust-abuse-disillusionment-betrayal-anger-and-forgiveness/) - Trust, Abuse, Disillusionment, Betrayal, Anger, and Forgiveness by Dr. Michael Obsatz Can we forgive Hitler? Or Saddam Hussein? What about mass murderers like John William Gacy of Chicago who killed over thirty young men and boys and buried them in his basement? Why is it so hard to forgive? My father was a very simple - ["Living in the Light" is Living in Delight](https://lifesjourney.us/living-in-the-light-is-living-in-delight/) - "Living in the Light" is Living in Delight by Dr. Michael Obsatz – September 2022 We are "delight-ful" creatures. We are full of light and love and joy and kindness. When we live in the "light," we see our Divine selves, our best selves, our perfect selves. We believe in abundance, not scarcity, and equality - [The Mystical Sacred Blessing: From Form to Essence](https://lifesjourney.us/the-mystical-sacred-blessing-from-form-to-essence/) - The Mystical Sacred Blessing: From Form to Essence by Dr. Michael Obsatz – September 2022 . Essence is eternal. Form changes. Essence is the core of what matters. Form is one way of expressing Essence but is not to be mistaken for Essence. Form leads to labels, categories, and judgment. Essence is beyond description, and not - [Rumi Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/rumi-quotation/) - Rumi Quotation Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Rumi-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-Jan-2021.pdf" title="Rumi Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – Jan 2021"] To download click here: - [Thomas Merton Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/thomas-merton-quotation/) - Thomas Merton Quotation Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Thomas-Merton-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-Sept.-2022.pdf" title="Thomas Merton Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – Sept. 2022"] To download click here: - [The Paper Trail to Resurrection](https://lifesjourney.us/the-paper-trail-to-resurrection/) - The Paper Trail to Resurrection By Dr. Michael Obsatz During this challenging time, many people have demonstrated incredible amounts of compassion. We are in our late seventies and have been ordered to stay at home, avoiding the stores. Twelve different people have asked us if we need anything from the store. One friend offered, “I just bought - [Robin Williams Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/robin-williams-quotation/) - Robin Williams Quotation for Storytelling Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Robin-Williams-Quotation-September-2022-www.lifesjourney.us_.pdf" title="Robin Williams Quotation – September 2022 – www.lifesjourney.us"] To download click here: - [4 Steps to Healing Fatigue for Parents of Special Needs Children](https://lifesjourney.us/4-steps-to-healing-fatigue-for-parents-of-special-needs-children/) - 4 Steps to Healing Fatigue for Parents of Special Needs Children by Gwen Payne - August 2022 This article lays out a concrete, step-by-step plan to help the parents of children with disabilities assess their fatigue and address the root causes of these issues in a sustainable way. As the parent of a child - [Weller Than Well](https://lifesjourney.us/weller-than-well/) - Weller Than Well by Dr. Michael Obsatz - July 2022 Laura Collier has written an article called "Growth After Trauma." She describes people who have experienced trauma and instead of just closing down and dying, they become more aware, compassionate, purposeful, and connected. Working through one's pain and seeing one's inner beauty was the primary - [GOD -- In More Than Three Letters](https://lifesjourney.us/god-in-more-than-three-letters/) - GOD -- In More Than Three Letters By Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2022 Concepts of God have been taught for generations. For some children, God was taught to be an old white man with grey hair and a beard. If you weren't white, you couldn't identify with God. So, I have come up with - [Formation, Conformation, Transformation, and Illumination](https://lifesjourney.us/formation-conformation-transformation-and-illumination/) - Formation, Conformation, Transformation, and Illumination By Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2022 As children, we are taught to listen to our parents, obey rules, and conform to certain norms. These norms are created by a culture -- norms about gender, norms about appearance, norms about seeking approval, and norms about being accepted and popular. Social media including television - [Grace and The Cosmic Dump](https://lifesjourney.us/grace-and-the-cosmic-dump/) - Grace and The Cosmic Dump by Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 2022 We grieve where the world is at. War in Ukraine, gun violence and killings at home, corruption in the government, oppression of the poor, minorities, people of color. We grieve that life does not seem to be getting better for many people. Women - [Eckhart Tolle Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/eckhart-tolle-quotation/) - Eckhart Tolle Quotation Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. To download click here: - [Mark Twain Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/mark-twain-quotation/) - Mark Twain Quotation Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Mark-Twain-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-March-2021.pdf" title="Mark Twain Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – March 2021"] To download click here: - [Martin Luther King Jr. Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/martin-luther-king-jr-quotation/) - Martin Luther King Jr. Quotation Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Martin-Luther-King-Jr-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-March-2021.pdf" title="Martin Luther King Jr Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – March 2021"] - [Joseph Campbell Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/joseph-campbell-quotation/) - Joseph Campbell Quotation Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Joseph-Campbell-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-Jan-2021.pdf" title="Joseph Campbell Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – Jan 2021"]To download click here: - [Rainer Maria Rilke Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/rainer-maria-rilke-quotation/) - Rainer Maria Rilke Quotation Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Rainer-Maria-Rilke-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-Jan-2021.pdf" title="Rainer Maria Rilke Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – Jan 2021"] To download click here: - [Maya Angelou Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/maya-angelou-quotation/) - Maya Angelou Quotation for Storytelling Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Maya-Angelou-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-Jan-2021.pdf" title="Maya Angelou Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – Jan 2021"] To download click here: - [David Whyte Poem - Sometimes...](https://lifesjourney.us/david-whyte-poem-sometimes/) - David Whyte Quotation for Storytelling Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/David-Whyte-Quotation-Sometimes...-www.lifesjourney.us-August-2022a.pdf" title="David Whyte Quotation – Sometimes… – www.lifesjourney.us – August 2022a"] To download click here: - [Where Does My Mind Go When I leave Living In the Present Moment"](https://lifesjourney.us/where-does-my-mind-go-when-i-leave-living-in-the-present-moment/) - Where Does My Mind Go When I leave Living In the "Present Moment"? Thoughtful quotations to foster small group discussions or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Richard-Moss-MD-The-Mandala-of-Being-Quotations-and-Discussion-Prompts-www.lifesjourney.us-January-2021.pdf" title="Richard Moss MD – The Mandala of Being Quotations and Discussion Prompts – www.lifesjourney.us – January 2021"] - [Wendell Berry Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/wendell-berry-quotation/) - Wendell Berry Quotation for Storytelling Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Wendell-Berry-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-January-2021-1.pdf" title="Wendell Berry Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – January 2021"] To download click here: - [Love - Mother Theresa Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/love-mother-theresa-quotation/) - "Love" Quotation by Mother Theresa for Storytelling Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Mother-Theresa-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-August-2022.pdf" title="Mother Theresa Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – August 2022"] To download click here: - [Brene Brown Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/brene-brown-quotation/) - "Conflict" Quotation by Brené Brown for Storytelling Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Brene-Brown-Quotation-www.lifesjourney.us-August-2022.pdf" title="Brene Brown Quotation – www.lifesjourney.us – August 2022"] To download click here: - [Inviting in God’s Presence through Practicing Contemplative Prayer and Meditation](https://lifesjourney.us/inviting-in-gods-presence-through-practicing-contemplative-prayer-and-meditation/) - Inviting in God’s Presence through Practicing Contemplative Prayer and Meditation by David Tillman - December 2012 This paper was written for "The Emerging Church Movement and New Ecclesiology" class at United Theological Seminary, New Brighton, MN We start the Lord’s Prayer by saying, “Our Father who art in Heaven.” In the song “Surely the Presence - [9 Unique Ways To Beat Mental Health Problems](https://lifesjourney.us/9-unique-ways-to-beat-mental-health-problems/) - Image via Pexels 9 Unique Ways To Beat Mental Health Problems By Gwen Payne – August 2022 If you’re struggling with mental health issues, you can improve them by changing your lifestyle. However, you must know that you’re not alone. In 2020, 26.3 million Americans used mental health services to boost their mental well-being, - [Blessing in the Chaos](https://lifesjourney.us/blessing-in-the-chaos/) - Jan Richardson Quotation for Storytelling Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. [pdf-embedder url="https://lifesjourney.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Jan-Richardson-Quotation-Blessing-in-the-Chaos-www.lifesjourney.us-August-2022.pdf" title="Jan Richardson Quotation – Blessing in the Chaos – www.lifesjourney.us – August 2022"] To download click here: - [Is a Loved One on Hospice?](https://lifesjourney.us/is-a-loved-one-on-hospice/) - Is a Loved One in Hospice Care? By David Tillman – August 2022 This week I heard something about hospice that I would like to share. I am a retired hospice and hospital chaplain. My mother was in hospice care for two months before she died, and my father-in-law has been in hospice care for - [Cracked Open](https://lifesjourney.us/cracked-open/) - Cracked Open by David Tillman - December 2021 There is a sunrise experience when life cracks us open. Once cracked open, we often feel pain, isolation, anger, mystery, sadness, fear, confusion, and so much more. The new day's sunlight shows us more clearly our imperfections and vulnerabilities. Our unique and individual self is “cracked - [Meditation](https://lifesjourney.us/1187-2/) - Meditation By David Tillman – July 2020 Meditation is a way to shift your attention from the outside world to experience the love, silence, and peace within you. Meditation can give you a chance for your mind and body to rest, rejuvenate, and refresh. You may experience a sense of inner peace during and after - [Recovery and Discovery](https://lifesjourney.us/recovery-and-discovery/) - Recovery and Discovery by Dr. Michael Obsatz As a retired professor, therapist, and author, my life has been described by others as being very productive and meaningful over all. Many don’t know that there were times when I wondered if I would have the strength and courage to carry on. Growing up on a poultry - [Older is Bolder:](https://lifesjourney.us/older-is-bolder/) - Older is Bolder: Age-ing, Sage-ing, and Still Shining by Dr. Michael Obsatz – June 2022 When I was a boy, age sixty was considered pretty old. Many people I knew were ill and dying in their fifties and sixties. Today, the miracle is that people are living longer these days -- many to almost 100. - [How much of your life Do You Live in the Present Moment?](https://lifesjourney.us/being-present-in-your-life/) - How Much of Your Life Do You Live in the Present Moment? By David Tillman – June 2020 [1] This is an adapted print version of a presentation I gave on “Be Present” during the MN MALES “Signs of Jonah” virtual men’s retreat in late June 2020.[2] During the retreat, we used the Biblical book - [Solutions to Yet Another Mass School Shooting](https://lifesjourney.us/solutions-to-yet-another-mass-school-shooting/) - Solutions to Yet Another Mass School Shooting Dr. Michael Obsatz - Professor Emeritus, Macalester College, St. Paul, MN- May 2022 I have been studying violence in America and its causes for more than forty years. My book, "Raising Nonviolent Children in a Violent World" was published in 1999, around the time of the Columbine Shooting, - [Self-Sabotage](https://lifesjourney.us/self-sabotage/) - Self-Sabotage — Why Good People Hurt Themselves by Dr. Michael Obsatz What is self-sabotage? It is when people who seem to have everything going for them engage in some foolish behavior that either kills them, hurts them, or gets them into trouble. People use drugs, break the law, steal, starve themselves, find and stay in - [Nobody Is Safe in an Empire](https://lifesjourney.us/nobody-is-safe-in-an-empire/) - Nobody Is Safe in an Empire by Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2022My parents loved me, but they could not protect me from ruthless bullies, a climate of hatred, and a dysfunctional, anti-Semitic school system. We were Jewish. I was shamed, hit, ridiculed, punched, and humiliated on a regular basis from ages 5 – 11 by a - [What Is Your Default Emotion Today? Fear, Anger, Sadness, or Joy?](https://lifesjourney.us/what-is-your-default-emotion-today-fear-anger-sadness-or-joy/) - What Is Your Default Emotion Today? Fear, Anger, Sadness, or Joy? By David Tillman – December 2021 I woke up this morning in fear The fear I am not safe today Feeling unloved and alone Wanting to fight or flee, but froze up I woke up this morning in anger Angry at others and myself - [Do You Know that You are Loved?](https://lifesjourney.us/do-you-know-that-you-are-loved/) - Do You Know that You are Loved? By David Tillman – November 2021 Do you feel safe? Safe physically, emotionally, sexually, and spiritually? Have shelter, water, food, heat, income, and transportation? Have a community of family, friends, mentors, and listeners?Do you trust? Trust God, others, and yourself? Trust you can navigate through this. Trust that - [The Metaphysical Heart -- An Inside Job](https://lifesjourney.us/the-metaphysical-heart-an-inside-job/) - The Metaphysical Heart -- An Inside Job by Dr. Michael Obsatz – February 2022 Oneness Consciousness comes from the Metaphysical Heart. It is a pervasive awareness of the inter-connectedness of all of creation. Real love also comes from Metaphysical Heart -- as does compassion, empathy, and understanding. Self-love is an expression of the Metaphysical Heart. - [Healing Our Trauma Through Love and Gratitude](https://lifesjourney.us/healing-our-trauma-through-love-and-gratitude/) - Healing Our Trauma Through Love and Gratitude by Dr. Michael Obsatz - October 2021 To view Mike's video click on the link below: https://youtu.be/T2WEYzn14-Q - [Really Henpecked: Living with 10,000 Chickens](https://lifesjourney.us/really-henpecked-living-with-10000-chickens/) - Really Henpecked: Living with 10,000 Chickens By Dr. Michael Obsatz, January 2021 Henry lived on a chicken farm in New Jersey. In 1951, he was 10 years old. He worked on the farm with his father, mother, sister, and grandmother. They had 10,000 white leghorn chickens. The farm was 10 acres big, with 3 large chicken - [Road Compassion:  The Art of Driving Kindly](https://lifesjourney.us/road-compassion-the-art-of-driving-kindly/) - Road Compassion: The Art of Driving Kindly By Dr. Michael Obsatz – September 2021 You can tell a lot about a person by watching them drive a car. There are aggressive drivers, timid drivers, cautious drivers, thoughtless drivers, distracted drivers, and hostile drivers. Some drivers tailgate, following so close that a sudden stop could cause an - [Oh, Grow Up: If You Have Children, Love and Guide Them](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-if-you-have-children-love-and-guide-them/) - Oh Grow Up: If You Have Children, Love and Guide Them - Task 9 "Oh Grow Up" by Dr. Michael Obsatz Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Oh, Grow Up: Dedicate Your Life to Creating More Love and Peace in the World](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-dedicate-your-life-to-creating-more-love-and-peace-in-the-world/) - Oh Grow Up: Dedicate Your Life to Creating More Love and Peace in the World - Task 7 "Oh Grow Up" by Dr. Michael Obsatz Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Oh, Grow Up: Find a Strategy for Making Enough Money](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-find-a-strategy-for-making-enough-money/) - Oh Grow Up: Find a Strategy for Making Enough Money - Task 6 "Oh Grow Up" by Dr. Michael ObsatzReflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Oh, Grow Up: Let Go of Abusive, Controlling People](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-let-go-of-abusive-controlling-people/) - Oh Grow Up: Let Go of Abusive, Controlling People - Task 5 "Oh Grow Up" by Dr. Michael ObsatzReflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Oh, Grow Up: Find Your Inner Beauty and Wholeness](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-find-your-inner-beauty-and-wholeness/) - Oh Grow Up: Find Your Inner Beauty and Wholeness - Task 4 “Oh Grow Up” by Dr. Michael Obsatz Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Oh, Grow Up: Appreciate Your Body, Your Physical and Sexual Self](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-appreciate-your-body-your-physical-and-sexual-self/) - Oh Grow Up: Appreciate Your Body, Your Physical and Sexual Self - Task 8 “Oh Grow Up” by Dr. Michael Obsatz Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [Thirst - God and the Alcoholic Experience](https://lifesjourney.us/thirst-god-and-the-alcoholic-experience/) - by James B. Nelson [1] Book excerpts collected by David Tillman – 2012 [2] Chapter 2 - God thirst and alcoholic thirst “Spirituality is a response to her human sense of incompleteness – whatever form that response might take. Religion, on the other hand, is a communal expression of that response – and persons bound - [Life's Journey Main Menu](https://lifesjourney.us/lifes-journey-main-menu/) - Life's Journey "Reflections on Life" Main Menu Click here to go to Life's journey "Reflections on Life" main menu - [How to be a Golden Receiver](https://lifesjourney.us/how-to-be-a-golden-receiver/) - How to be a Golden Receiver by Dr. Michael Obsatz Deborah MacDonald, author and business coach, talks about the difference between being a Go-getter and Go-giver. Go-getters are actively involved in getting what they want -- jobs, money, possessions, relationships. Go-givers are busy offering their time, talents, and services to others, those in need. Golden - [We Do We Forgive?](https://lifesjourney.us/we-do-we-forgive/) - Who Do We Forgive? Let's take a look at Forgiveness. Who do we forgive? Below are slides from a PowerPoint presentation on Forgiveness. I hope this gives you another way to look at forgiveness which is healing and helpful to you. - [Money, Financial Issues, and Retirement](https://lifesjourney.us/money-finance-and-retirement/) - If money represents stored up energy, how do we make, spend, and save money to live healthy and balanced lives? What are your attitudes towards prosperity, abundance, and scarcity? Still working on this... - [Career, Vocation, and Job](https://lifesjourney.us/career-vocation-and-job/) - Many of us have, or will, spend forty or more years working in some type of job. How do you find meaningful work and balance, money, time, and stress? How do you feel about your work life? Still working on this... - [Community Service and Volunteering](https://lifesjourney.us/community-service-and-volunteering/) - What can we do to bring our love and talents to others in the world? Who has volunteered time in their life that has touched you, your family, or people you know? What do you do for service to others? How do you feel after you volunteer or provide community service? Still working on this… - [Elder Bob Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/elder-bob-quotation/) - Edler Bob Quotation Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or through personal reflection. - [Beyond "White Male Privilege" -- All White Men Are Not the Same](https://lifesjourney.us/beyond-white-male-privilege-all-white-men-are-not-the-same/) - Beyond "White Male Privilege" -- All White Men Are Not the Same by Dr. Michael Obsatz - March 2021 Every time I see all white men lumped together, it makes me sad. I have known thousands of white men over my almost 80 years on this planet. They have been co-workers, fathers, teachers, students, mentees, relatives, sons, community members, - [Writing “My Story” Resources for “The Community Member World”](https://lifesjourney.us/writing-my-story-resources-for-the-community-member-world/) - Writing “My Story” Resourcesfor “The Community Member World” How to Be an Active Member of the Community: Tips to TryHow to Be an Active Member of the Community: Tips to Try (theideatrader.com) 6 Ways to Be a Good Community Member6 Ways to Be a Good Community Member (beingbetterhumans.com) Six Ways to Be a Good Community - [Writing My Story Resources for The Spiritual World](https://lifesjourney.us/writing-my-story-resources-for-the-spiritual-world/) - Writing "My Story" Resources for "The Spiritual World" Your Spirituality – Take a LookYour Spirituality – Take a Look – Life's Journey Pew Research Center – Religion and Public LifeReligion & Public Life - Pew Research Center (pewforum.org) Religion vs. Spirituality: The Difference Between ThemReligion vs. Spirituality: The Difference Between Them (chopra.com) The Difference Between - [Stepping into the Arena: Palm Sunday Is All About Courage](https://lifesjourney.us/stepping-into-the-arena-palm-sunday-is-all-about-courage/) - Stepping into the Arena: Palm Sunday Is All About Courage By Dr. Michael Obsatz - March 28, 2021 When Jesus decided to ride into Jerusalem on a donkey to program the "good news," he was taking a risk. He was putting himself out there. It was like a prelude to his "coming out," being who - [Writing "My Story" Resources for The World of Me](https://lifesjourney.us/writing-my-story-resources-for-the-world-of-me/) - Writing "My Story" Resources for "The World of Me" Here are some resources to help you write your "My Story" first section "The World of Me." You can download a pdf of the resources outlined below by clicking the link below. May your reflection and writing go well. What does “My Story” mean? I was - [Writing "My Story" Resources for "The School/Peer World"](https://lifesjourney.us/the-school-peer-world-writing-my-story-resources/) - Writing "My Story" Resources for the School/Peer World Here are some resources which may help you when writing your "My Story" about how you navigated the School/Peer World. - [Writing "My Story" Resources for "The Partner World"](https://lifesjourney.us/writing-my-story-resources-for-the-partner-world/) - Writing "My Story" Resources for "The Partner World" Here are some resources to help you write your "My Story" fourth section "The Partner World." You can download a pdf of the resources outlined below by clicking the link below. May your reflection and writing go well. - [Writing "My Story" Resources for "The Parent World"](https://lifesjourney.us/writing-my-story-resources-for-the-parent-world/) - Writing "My Story" Resources for "The Parent World" - [Writing "My Story" Resources for The Grandparent World](https://lifesjourney.us/writing-my-story-resources-for-the-grandparent-world/) - Writing "My Story" Resources for "The Grandparent World" - [Henry David Thoreau Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/henry-david-thoreau-quotation/) - Henry David Thoreau Quotation Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or through personal reflection. - [God-Angels: How God Works Through My Protectors to Keep Me Safe](https://lifesjourney.us/god-angels-how-god-works-through-my-protectors-to-keep-me-safe/) - God-Angels: How God Works Through My Protectors to Keep Me Safe By Dr. Michael Obsatz – March 2021 When we say the words of the "Prayer for Protection," we announce that the "power of God protects us." This means that wherever we are, there is a God-force of loving, protective energy surrounding us. We believe - [How to Use the "Dictation" Feature in Microsoft Word or Apple Pages](https://lifesjourney.us/how-to-use-the-dictation-feature-in-microsoft-word-or-apple-pages/) - How to Use the "Dictation" Feature in Microsoft Word or Apple Pages Link to Microsoft Word Information on using "Dictation" Feature: Link to using Apple "Pages" information on using "Dictation" feature: Link to writing "My Story" information and outline - [Storytelling in Small Groups](https://lifesjourney.us/storytelling-in-small-group/) - Storytelling in Small Groups Click here to go to Storytelling in Small Groups Click here to go to Storytelling in Small Groups Menu - [Life Experiences with Covid-19](https://lifesjourney.us/life-experiences-with-covid-19-2/) - Life Experiences with Covid-19 From Trauma, to Trust, to Triumph video by Dr. Michael Obsatz This is the heading “A trauma is a damage to the mind that occurs as a result of a severely distressing event." Click Here Healing from Life's Trauma and Setbacks by David Tillman This is the heading "Judith Herman, - [File Download Test Page](https://lifesjourney.us/file-download-test-page/) - [Letting Our Feelings Out -- In Safe Places](https://lifesjourney.us/letting-our-feelings-out-in-safe-places/) - Letting Our Feelings Out -- In Safe Places By Dr. Michael Obsatz – Feb. 2021 It is good to feel our feelings. Whether it is joy, sadness, anger, fear, frustration, surprise -- whatever. I am watching a series called "Anne with an 'e', based on "Anne of Green Gables." It takes place a long time - [Navigating Ou Many Worlds - The Partner World](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-ou-many-worlds-the-partner-world/) - Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Partner World by Dr. Michael Obsatz - [Navigating Our Many Worlds - The School - Peer World](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-our-many-worlds-the-school-peer-world/) - Navigating Our Many Worlds - The School/Peer World by Dr. Michael Obsatz - [Navigating Our Many Worlds - The World of Me](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-our-many-worlds-the-world-of-me/) - Navigating Our Many Worlds - The World of Me by Dr. Michael Obsatz - [Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Elder World](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-our-many-worlds-the-elder-world/) - Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Elder World by Dr. Michael Obsatz - [Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Spiritual World](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-our-many-worlds-the-spiritual-world/) - Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Spiritual World by Dr. Michael Obsatz - [Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Adult Friend World](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-our-many-worlds-the-adult-friend-world/) - Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Adult Friend World by Dr. Michael Obsatz - [Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Community Member World](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-our-many-worlds-the-community-member-world/) - Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Community Member World by Dr. Michael Obsatz - [Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Parent World](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-our-many-worlds-the-parent-world/) - Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Parent World by Dr. Michael Obsatz - [Navigating the Many Worlds - The World of Family](https://lifesjourney.us/navigating-the-many-worlds-the-world-of-family/) - Navigating Our Many Worlds - The Family World by Dr. Michael Obsatz - [Monks Don’t Mind Monastic Life – Why Do We?](https://lifesjourney.us/monks-dont-mind-monastic-life-why-do-we/) - Monks Don’t Mind Monastic Life – Why Do We? By Dr. Michael Obsatz These days, I have been thinking a lot about monks and nuns. I’ve been to monasteries and cloisters at different times in my life. I have participated in monastic and silent retreats where you eat, pray, and meditate much of the day. I spent - [Using Buddies: Overcoming Chemical Incest](https://lifesjourney.us/using-buddies-overcoming-chemical-incest/) - Using Buddies: Overcoming Chemical Incest by Dr. Michael Obsatz How did Robert Downey, Jr. become hooked on drugs? Some people wonder if his dad enticed him into drug use when he was very young. There are millions of young people whose parents use drugs, and want their kids to become “using buddies.” I know of - [Healing from Life's Trauma and Setbacks](https://lifesjourney.us/healing-from-lifes-trauma-and-set-backs/) - Healing from Life's Trauma and Setbacks by David Tillman - March 2014 Weekly Reflection Paper for Pastoral Care and the Shattered Soul class at United Theological Seminary, MN Judith Herman, in Trauma and Recovery, writes about the three stages of recovery from trauma. She says, “The central task of the first stage is the establishment - [Family](https://lifesjourney.us/family/) - Our biological or adopted family will influence us in more ways than we can imagine. Our family can be a source of love and many blessings. Our family also can be a source of pain, abuse, frustration, anger, and fear. We learn ways of perceiving, attitudes, values, skills, spiritual beliefs, coping mechanisms, and emotional expression - [Oh, Grow Up - PDF Downloads](https://lifesjourney.us/oh-grow-up-pdf-downloads/) - [Dr. Seuss Quotation for Storytelling](https://lifesjourney.us/dr-seuss-quotation-for-storytelling/) - Dr. Seuss Quotation for Storytelling Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or through personal reflection. - [About](https://lifesjourney.us/about/) - Welcome to Life's Journey Reflections on Life Journeys are complicated and surprising. There are many roads to travel. Some have detours. Others have roadblocks. We change and grow. We explore and try new ways of being. We experience transformation on our journeys. We can learn from everything that happens. We can see the gifts in - [Henri Nouwen Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/henri-nouwen-quotation/) - Henri Nouwen Quotation Famous Quotations Reflection and Prompts for Small Groups or Personal Reflection - [Walt Whitman Quotation](https://lifesjourney.us/walt-whitman-quotation/) - Walt Whitman Quotation for Storytelling Reflection and prompts for small group meetings or personal reflection. - [O Holy Night: Today's Song of Liberation of Self and Others](https://lifesjourney.us/o-holy-night-todays-song-of-liberation-of-self-and-others/) - by Dr. Michael Obsatz - December 2020 Adolphe Adam wrote the words for "O Holy Night" in 1847. Some of the words include: “Long lay the world in sin and error pining. ‘Til He appeared and the soul felt it’s worth.” “Truly He taught us to love one another.” “Chains did He break, for the slave - [Aging Grace-Fully - Overview of 4 sessions](https://lifesjourney.us/aging-grace-fully-overview-of-4-sessions/) - A New Vision for Aging by David Tillman - December 19, 2011Class: Ministry with Older Adults - United Theological Seminary, MN For my final paper I have developed a curricular piece, for a congregation’s adult education, entitled “Aging Grace-Fully – A New Vision for Aging.” This course, to discuss aging, is designed for older - [Grief and Social Networking](https://lifesjourney.us/grief-and-social-networking/) - Grief and Loss Class Weekly Reflection Paper by David Tillman - December 12, 2013United Theological Seminary, New Brighton, MN 55112Class: Pastoral Care in Grief and Loss, taught by Dr. Trina Armstrong Social networking has changed the way we mourn which raises a host of strange new questions, by John Moore, The Denver Post Posted, September - [Grief – Contemporary Theory and the Practice of Ministry](https://lifesjourney.us/grief-contemporary-theory-and-the-practice-of-ministry/) - by Melissa M. Kelley [1] Grief and Loss Weekly Reflection Paper By David Tillman - October 3, 2013 United Theological Seminary, New Brighton, MN 55112Class: Pastoral Care in Grief and Loss taught by Dr. Trina Armstrong Key issues: Three Dimensions of GriefDisenfranchised Grief: “not openly acknowledged, socially validated, or publicly observed” (p. 12). Examples: miscarriage, - [Paper on "Adult Children of Alcoholics"](https://lifesjourney.us/paper-on-adult-children-of-alcoholics/) - Adult Children of Alcoholics by Janet Geringer Woititz [1] Researched by David Tillman - October 2012Paper for Addiction and Recovery Class - United Theological Seminary This is a recap, in outline form, of quotes and paraphrases from the book: Adult Children of Alcoholics. This is helpful for my understanding and healing from alcohol abuse in - [<- even more articles: Life Experiences with COVID-19](https://lifesjourney.us/1300-2/) - [<- more articles: Life Experiences with COVID-19](https://lifesjourney.us/1298-2/) - [<- more articles: Life Experiences with COVID-19](https://lifesjourney.us/more-articles-life-experiences-with-covid-19/) - [Life Experiences with COVID-19 - more articles 2...](https://lifesjourney.us/lifes-experiences-with-covid-19-more-articles-2/) - [Ordinary Miracles: How to Cope in Times of Turmoil](https://lifesjourney.us/ordinary-miracles-how-to-cope-in-times-of-turmoil/) - By Dr. Michael Obsatz – August 9, 2020 These are challenging times. The pandemic has continued now for six months. Over 162,000 Americans have died. Five million people in America have experienced COVID-19. It is sad. We don’t know when it will end. Every day can be difficult. There is the continuous grieving of losses — - [Relationships and Social Interactions - 3rd list](https://lifesjourney.us/relationships-and-social-interactions-3rd-list/) - More of Relationship and Social Interactions... - [Relationship and Social Interactions - 2nd list](https://lifesjourney.us/relationship-and-social-interactions-2nd-list/) - More of Relationship and Social Interactions... - [Relationships and Social Interactions - 1st list](https://lifesjourney.us/relationships-and-social-interactions-1st-list/) - [Visiting People With Dementia](https://lifesjourney.us/visiting-people-with-dementia/) - By Esther Heerema, MSW - www.verywellhealth.com Medically reviewed by Sarah Rahal, MD - Updated on February 05, 2020 If you’re headed out to spend some time with a friend or family member who is in the middle stages of Alzheimer’s or another dementia, consider these ten tips as your guide. Know What to Expect Increase the likelihood of a positive visit - [Reflection List B](https://lifesjourney.us/reflection-list-b/) - Who are we? How we personally understand the world has as big influence on how we live our lives. Taking time to learn about ourselves and how we have been shaped by family, schools, community, nation, and world influences our behavior. Here are some of aspects and influencers in our lives. Spiritually and ReligionDeath, Dying, - [Why People Don't Listen to the Experts:](https://lifesjourney.us/why-people-dont-listen-to-the-experts/) - Anti-Intellectualism in America is Alive and Well By Dr. Michael Obsatz – July 13, 2020 When I was a young child, I heard some people say to me, "You're too smart for your own good." I believe there has always been a sentiment of anti-intellectualism in America. This means that a person who studies, reads, - [BEYOND THE DIVIDE - Seeing The Uniqueness and Divine Connection of Others at the Same Time](https://lifesjourney.us/beyond-the-divide-seeing-the-uniqueness-and-divine-connection-of-others-at-the-same-time/) - by Dr. Michael Obsatz - June 26, 2020 Who Is a Racist? What Do We See When We See a Person of Color? There is a lot of talk about racism these days since the recent murdering of numerous Black men and women. Am I a racist? Are you a racist? Is our system - [Types of Grief and Loss](https://lifesjourney.us/types-of-grief-and-loss/) - Six Types of Loss: by Mitchell and Anderson - 1 Material Loss: “the loss of a physical object or of familiar surroundings to which one has an important attachment.” Example, missing wedding ring, home fire or moving to different state. Relationship loss: “the ending of opportunities to relate oneself with, talk to, share experiences with, - [The Wake-Up Call](https://lifesjourney.us/the-wake-up-call/) - by Dr. Michael Obsatz Social distancing is a luxury. Staying at home and not working is a luxury. The poor are always oppressed, and they are limited in this current COVID-19 situation as well. The poor people lack adequate medical care, develop diseases which put them more at risk. They live in cramped quarters, and - [Photo's to Enjoy!](https://lifesjourney.us/photos-to-enjoy/) - [Life Experiences with COVID-19](https://lifesjourney.us/life-experiences-with-covid-19/) - The COVID-19 pandemic is changing all aspects of our lives. Our daily routine has changed overnight. Love's one's are getting sick. Some are dying from COVID-19. Isolating at home is challenging. Not being able to be with family, friends, classmates, and co-workers is very difficult. Many have lost their jobs, concerned about paying the bills, - [Resources](https://lifesjourney.us/resources/) - Resources that may encourage and support you on your life's journey. How do you weave external resources in your life? - [The Quest for Maturity and Sobriety](https://lifesjourney.us/the-quest-for-maturity-and-sobriety/) - The Quest for Maturity and Sobriety: How to Change America’s Messed Up Kids by Dr. Michael Obsatz I believe there is a crisis among many of America’s children. They live in a state of prolonged immaturity and self-aborption. Many of them are ignored, neglected, abused, and manipulated into becoming addicts. Some often seem like shallow, - [Relationships and Social Interaction](https://lifesjourney.us/relationships/) - It takes two people to create a relationship. At times relationships break down. When that happens, take time to reflect on what happened. What part in this is my own stuff? Look at what can I do to bring us back into relationship? From our birth we have been interacting with our family, friends, community, - [Death, Dying, Grief, and Loss](https://lifesjourney.us/personal/) - How do we explore death and dying? As a child, what did we learn from our parents and family about death at the first funeral or memorial service we attended? How has understanding changed as we have aged? How do we let go of control? - [Spirituality and Religion](https://lifesjourney.us/spirituality/) - How are we are loved by and connected to God, or Spirit, or giver of life? How do we understand and express our relationship with God? - [Education and Lifetime Learning](https://lifesjourney.us/education-and-lifetime-learning/) - Education offers us learning about many subjects, ideas, and ways to live in the world. We learn how to socialize as we meet and interact with others. Mentors come into our lives to encourage, teach, and support us. Education is one vehicle that helps you create the life you want for ourselves and others. What - [Social](https://lifesjourney.us/social/) - [Bullyproofing Your School](https://lifesjourney.us/bullyproofing-your-school/) - Bullyproofing Your School by Dr. Michael Obsatz Bullies are angry children who hurt others. They can use physical force (hitting, punching, shooting) or verbal intimidation (name-calling, putdowns). They can steal property, clothing, money from victims. Relational bullying involves shunning, ostracizing, gossiping, spreading rumors. Girls tend to do more relational bullying than boys. Underneath the anger - [Health, Addictions, and Self-Care](https://lifesjourney.us/health-body-and-fitness/) - [Personal Healing](https://lifesjourney.us/personal-healing/) - Personal Healing: The “Bad” News and the “Good” News by Dr. Michael Obsatz Life is not a Hallmark card, or a “feel good” movie. Life is complex, challenging, and more complicated than heroes and villains. Part of life involves sadness, disappointments, losses, betrayals, and wounds. 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