If I could go back and whisper something to 30-something-year-old me, it might sound like this list. It’s my personal Top Ten List of Things Parents Can Do to Help Their Children Succeed (or, how to raise kids that don’t suck). Today, the first three things I believe every parent can do to help their kids grow into strong, grounded, capable adults.
Tag Archives: Faith
Love is the Tuesdays
Some days don’t feel extraordinary — they just feel like Tuesdays. But I’m learning that love often shows up in those ordinary, faithful moments. This post is a reminder that showing up—quietly and consistently—is sacred work.
When You Can’t Be Everything, Be Present
I’m learning I don’t have to be everything for everyone. I just have to be present—to my people, to the moment, and to the God who holds what I can’t. That’s where grace lives.
A Little Less Me
Something that I’ve been reflecting on, post- Easter, is the idea of humility. It’s not my go-to feeling or attribute, and many dear friends and family members may even laugh when they think about me wanting to be more humble. A younger me often struggled with wanting recognition and fame—but the older I get, theContinue reading “A Little Less Me”
Being a Dad to Older Kids is Weird
Becoming a father for the first time 25 years ago, the author felt unprepared for the emotional challenges of parenting. Managing his children’s diverse emotions was tough, and he realized that his older kids don’t always want to hear his advice. Despite this, he finds solace in the hope that they’ll appreciate his wisdom one day.
Do Good.
The letter of Galatians emphasizes the importance of doing good to everyone. It extends beyond spiritual acts to everyday kindness. Small gestures such as smiling, complimenting, aiding others, or sharing encouragement can spread joy and kindness. This simple reminder encourages continuous acts of kindness, leaving a positive impact on the world.
Love Words
This is our 26th Valentine’s Day together, and Robyn and I have learned a lot over that lifetime. The journey has taught us that love goes beyond sweet words; it demands forgiveness, grace, and mercy. Amidst the commercialized love expressions, we’ve learned that love is defined by these deeper values, shaping our everyday reality and proving that love is indeed work.
Re-igniting the Spark of Creation
The author deleted Facebook and Instagram to focus on family and address an unhealthy social media obsession. This led to rediscovering creativity through introspection, scripture, and writing. The author plans to blog, restart a podcast, and revive a newsletter, feeling inspired and content without social media. The experience has been transformative, leading to newfound purpose and creativity.
Just the Beginning
After Jesus’ death on the cross, the story of love seemed to have come to a horrific, tragic end. To His closest friends, it seemed like the end of a dream. They could not believe, in spite of everything Jesus had said, that there could be anything more to the story. He was dead. Buried.Continue reading “Just the Beginning”
It Was Anything But a “Good” Friday
The Story of Love takes a dark turn as an evening with friends becomes a night of betrayal. After taking His companions to a garden to join Him in prayer, one of His friends arrives in the company of soldiers. With a greeting of friendship and trust, he turns Jesus over to the enemies. It’sContinue reading “It Was Anything But a “Good” Friday”
Duane S. Montague 