The Art of Conversation: Why Time and Attention Matter

A good conversation can’t be hurried, it needs time in which to meander its way to revelation and insight.  -- Katrina Kenison

A good conversation is like a gentle river—it can’t be rushed. It winds and weaves, pausing at unexpected bends, lingering in silence, flowing deeper as trust builds. The best insights don’t always arrive on cue; they show up when we least expect them, tucked within laughter, a thoughtful pause, or a shared memory. In a world obsessed with speed, real conversation is a quiet rebellion—an invitation to slow down, to listen fully, and to discover meaning not just in what’s said, but in the space between the words.

“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone” (Colossians 4:6) is a gentle yet powerful reminder of how our words can reflect Christ’s love. To speak with grace is to approach each conversation with kindness, humility, and compassion, offering encouragement rather than condemnation. Being "seasoned with salt" suggests adding wisdom, truth, and thoughtfulness—words that preserve peace and stir hearts without losing their flavor. This balance equips us to respond not with rehearsed replies, but with discernment, sincerity, and the ability to meet people right where they are. When grace and truth guide our speech, our conversations become more than just exchanges—they become instruments of healing, connection, and light in a noisy world.

Do not take time conversing with friends or family lightly. These moments—whether over a warm cup of coffee, a shared meal, or a quiet walk—hold more value than we often realize. In the rhythm of daily life, it’s easy to rush through conversations or let distractions steal our attention. But when we pause, lean in, and truly listen, we create space for connection, laughter, healing, and understanding. Sharing memories, telling stories, and simply being present with one another can become sacred pauses in our busy days—moments that linger in our hearts long after they’ve passed. Cherish these times. They are often where life’s truest blessings unfold.

Resources:

Colossians 4:6 

grateful.org - quote

Conversation Image - Unsplash

ChatGPT keywords for labels

The Secret to Happiness Is Loving Small Moments Each Day

The true secret of happiness is something many overlook. It’s not about chasing big achievements or seeking constant excitement. Instead, happiness comes from caring about the small details of everyday life. When you truly pay attention to what’s happening around you, life becomes richer and more meaningful.  According to Proverbs 3:13: "Happy is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding."

For example, noticing how the sunlight hits your face in the morning can lift your mood. Or listening carefully to a friend's story can deepen your connection. Taking time to appreciate the aroma of your breakfast or the sound of birds outside can turn ordinary moments into sources of joy. When you focus on these tiny details, life feels more vibrant.

This attitude helps you find happiness in the everyday, not just in rare big events. It encourages you to see beauty in simple things—a child’s laugh, a kind word from a coworker, the feel of warm rain on your skin. When you genuinely care about these moments, they stop being ordinary. They become parts of a fuller, more satisfying life.

"The true secret of happiness lies in the taking a genuine interest in all the details of daily life.  --William Morris"

Experts say that happiness isn’t just about big goals. It’s about noticing what’s around you. Small, daily moments shape how you feel most days. They remind you that life isn’t about what happens once in a while but about how you see each day. By paying close attention, you create a habit of gratitude and contentment.

It’s about being present. About really living each moment instead of rushing through it. It’s about noticing when your child laughs or how a sunset colors the sky. These are simple things, but they carry deep meaning. They teach us that happiness isn’t something far away or complicated. It’s in the details—the little things that, when seen fully, fill our days with joy.

Resources:

Proverbs 3:13 Bible Verse

grateful.org - William Morris quote

Ryan Robinson Blogging Tools

Listen Generously to People: The Art of Deep, Meaningful Communication

In a world filled with noise and distractions, real listening becomes a rare and powerful skill. When you listen generously, you create stronger bonds, solve problems faster, and build trust. It’s not just about hearing words; it’s about truly understanding what someone is saying—and sometimes what they’re not saying. Many people listen on a surface level, missing out on the deeper connection that comes with giving full attention. Rising above superficial hearing takes practice, but the rewards are worth it.

Understanding the Power of Listening

Research shows that listening impacts everything—relationships, leadership, even your own well-being. For example, good listening can help you connect better with friends, family, and colleagues. Experts like Julian Treasure say that listening actively is one of the most undervalued skills. When you listen mindfully, you're more likely to understand others’ needs and feelings. That builds trust faster than any words could.

"When you listen generously to people, they can hear truth in themselves, often for the first time. --Rachel Naomi Remen"

Impact on Personal Relationships

Listening generously makes relationships deeper. Think about moments when someone truly listened to you—how that made you feel valued and understood. When you listen deeply, misunderstandings fade away, replaced by clarity and kindness. For example, couples who practice active listening are more likely to resolve conflicts peacefully, leading to more intimacy and connection.

Influence on Professional Success

In the workplace, listening skills can set leaders apart. Leaders like Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, emphasize listening with empathy. This approach helps teams feel heard, motivated, and valued. It boosts productivity and fosters a positive company culture. Being a good listener isn’t just nice; it’s a key ingredient in effective leadership.

Developing a Mindful Listening Attitude

Good listening begins with being present. Focus all your attention on the speaker, and avoid judging or planning your reply. Before entering a chat, try taking a few deep breaths or doing quick mindfulness exercises. This helps clear your mind and prepares you to listen attentively.

Removing Barriers to Effective Listening

Distractions can block your listening skills. Turn off notifications on your phone, and find a quiet space. Be aware of your biases, which might make you jump to conclusions or dismiss what’s being said. Set up your environment to be listener-friendly—clean space, minimal interruptions, and full focus.

Cultivating Curiosity and Openness

Stay curious. Ask open-ended questions that invite detailed responses. For example, instead of saying, “Did you like it?”, ask, “What was your favorite part?” This signals genuine interest and encourages the speaker to share more, deepening your understanding.

Active Listening Skills

Show you're engaged with nods, eye contact, and relaxed body language. Paraphrase what you hear: “So, you’re feeling overwhelmed because of the deadline?” It confirms you understand and encourages more sharing.

Empathic Listening

Notice emotions behind words. When someone shows frustration or sadness, acknowledge those feelings with phrases like, “That sounds really tough.” Validating emotions helps others feel safe and respected. Counselors use this a lot, and it makes a big difference in outcomes.

Reflective Listening

Restate what has been said in your own words. Example: “What I hear is that you’re worried about the upcoming project, and you’re not sure if you have enough support.” Doing this helps clear up confusion and shows your genuine interest.

Listening Without Interrupting or Judging

Patience is key here. Resist the urge to jump in with advice or judgments. It’s best to listen fully before responding. If you catch yourself interrupting or judging, pause and remind yourself: “I want to understand, not fix right now.”

Setting Intentions Before Conversations

Think about what you want from the chat. Maybe you want to understand their feelings better or learn their perspective. Writing down a simple goal can keep you focused.

Creating a Conducive Listening Environment

Choose quiet, comfortable spots for deep talks. Turn off digital devices and focus solely on the person in front of you. A calm setting helps both of you feel more at ease.

Practicing Listening in Daily Life

Make listening a habit. When someone shares a story at dinner or a co-worker talks about a problem, really tune in. Even small exercises like journaling about meaningful conversations can improve your skills over time.

Using Technology to Improve Listening

Apps that promote mindfulness can help you stay present. But be cautious not to rely too much on digital tools. Face-to-face or voice conversations still are the best for authentic connection.

Wrap-Up

Listening generously means more than just hearing words. It is about truly tuning in to what others are saying and making space for their feelings. When you listen with effort and care, you create real connections that go deeper than surface talk. It’s about catching those unspoken emotions behind the words, which can tell you more than what is said aloud. This kind of listening helps you understand people better, making your relationships stronger both in your personal life and at work.

Active listening involves fully focusing on the speaker without distractions. It means not just waiting for your turn to speak, but really paying attention to their tone of voice, their expressions, and their gestures. Empathic listening requires you to imagine yourself in their shoes and see things from their point of view. Reflective listening is about summarizing what you've heard to confirm understanding. For example, if a friend talks about feeling overwhelmed at work, instead of offering quick advice, you might say, “It sounds like you’re really stressed because of your workload.” That shows you are truly listening and care about what they are going through.

Building this skill takes effort. It’s easy to get caught up in your own thoughts or to interrupt because you want to fix things quickly. But practicing everyday helps to develop patience and kindness. When you choose to listen fully, you give others the chance to share their true feelings, not just the surface story they tell. This openness helps develop trust and invites honest conversations. It shows that you value what they have to say, which makes the bond between you stronger.

Listening generously also helps you understand people on a deeper level. You may notice subtle hints of sadness, frustration, or hope that people might hold back if not listened to carefully. These moments of understanding can change how you respond, making your support more meaningful. When people feel heard and understood, they tend to open up more, creating a cycle of trust and respect.

Making a conscious choice to be an attentive listener does not just benefit your relationships; it helps create a kinder, more compassionate world. When we all listen more with kindness, misunderstandings decrease and empathy grows. It’s a small act with big rewards. Each day gives you chances to practice better listening—whether with family, friends, coworkers, or strangers. Over time, you will see your relationships become more genuine, your conflicts lessen, and your connections deepen. Better listening makes everyone feel valued and understood, and that’s a step toward a more caring society.

Resources:

grateful.org - Quote about listening

Ryan Robinson Blogging Tools

YouVersion - Scripture Image

Take a Break, Take a Pause - Take Care of Your Mental Health

Losing a coworker last week hit me harder than I expected. It’s an experience that stays with you long after the shock wears off. If you've ever lost someone you work with, you know how suddenly things shift at the office. One day, everything feels normal, and the next, it’s like the ground beneath you shifted. That’s when I started to think more about how fragile life really is. It reminded me that tomorrow isn’t guaranteed, no matter how busy or important work gets. I referenced this in a post called "Tomorrow Isn’t Promised" because it’s a truth we often forget until it’s staring us in the face.

Amid all this, I was stuck with a new challenge: teaching my coworkers how to use our Service Now ticketing system properly. Instead of just shooting quick emails or jotting notes on paper or even carrier pigeons, I had to explain the importance of a structured approach. You’d think it’s simple, but it wasn’t. People are used to doing things their way, and getting everyone on the same page can be a real struggle. Add to that random conflicts that pop up, making the whole process even more frustrating. It felt like trying to herd cats some days. I was constantly putting out fires, trying to keep everything moving smoothly while occasionally feeling like I was spinning my wheels.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." - Psalm 34:18

Then there’s the fact that I was dealing with the aftermath of a chaotic week. When the dust finally settled, I thought I could rest during the weekend. But I didn’t. I kept jumping right back into the chaos. The work didn’t magically slow down, and suddenly I found myself facing an even bigger mental drain. The stress and exhaustion slowly crept in, and I started feeling physically tired too. It’s strange how your mind and body are so linked—if your head feels overwhelmed, your body will feel the effects soon enough. That kind of mental fatigue can start to weaken your immune system, affect your sleep, and make everyday tasks even harder. It’s not just about feeling tired—it's about how it can chip away at your overall health if left unchecked.

That’s when I knew I needed to take a break of some kind. Not just a casual, quick pause, but a real mental health day. I knew I had to give my mind a chance to recharge, to step back from all this constant pressure. So I made that choice for myself, even if some might call it silly or unnecessary. There’s always a risk of being judged when you prioritize your mental health over work; some might see it as unnecessary or unprofessional. But I really don’t care what those people think. I couldn’t keep going like I was without risking burnout or worse. Maybe it sounds selfish, but I understand the importance of doing what’s best for my health and well-being.

Taking that mental health day turned out to be one of the smartest choices I’ve made recently. It gave me a chance to breathe, reflect, and reset. It reminded me how vital it is to take care of ourselves, especially during turbulent times. Sometimes, we get so caught up in trying to keep everything running smoothly that we forget how important it is to pause. To step back, breathe, and focus on what we need in that moment. It’s a lesson I plan to keep close—sometimes, we have to put ourselves first, no matter what others might think. After all, if I don’t look after myself, I won’t have the energy to help others or get through the next tough week.

Resources:

Nostos Nest - Blog about Real Life 

Ryan Robinson Blogging Tools

Psalms 34:18 about Mental Health

Image - My Positive Outlooks on Instagram

Living Gratefully to Transform Our Way of Being

Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you.” It’s a way of looking at life that can change everything. When we practice gratitude, we shift how we see ourselves and the world around us. It helps us focus on what’s good instead of what’s lacking. Research shows that living gratefully boosts mental health, makes relationships stronger, and increases overall happiness. In recent years, scientists have found clear links between gratitude routines and feeling better physically and emotionally. Living with a grateful heart creates a ripple of positive change in how we experience each day.

The Psychological Benefits of Gratitude

Gratitude can literally change the way your brain works. When you feel thankful, your brain releases chemicals like serotonin and dopamine—your happiness messengers. This makes you feel calmer and more content. Studies show that people who keep gratitude journals or practice daily appreciation tend to have lower stress levels and fewer signs of depression. They simply see life through a brighter lens, which helps them handle struggles better.

Physical Health Improvements

Living gratefully doesn't just change your mind—it also impacts your body. When you practice gratitude regularly, your blood pressure tends to lower. Sleep improves, and your immune system gets a boost. A long-term study found that those who focused on gratitude reported fewer health problems and felt more energized. These small shifts in attitude can lead to big improvements in overall health over time.

Gratitude in Neuroscience

In the brain, gratitude lights up certain areas linked with positive feelings. When you reflect on what you’re thankful for, your brain rewires itself. Neuroscientists say practicing gratitude strengthens the neural pathways associated with pleasure and social bonding. Over time, this can turn gratitude into a natural habit. The more you use those pathways, the easier it becomes to feel thankful even during tough times.

Daily Gratitude Practices

Start simple. Write down three things you're thankful for each morning. It could be a good cup of coffee or a kind word from a friend. Keep a gratitude journal or set reminders on your phone. Many well-known leaders and wellness coaches swear by morning reflections—they kickstart their day with appreciation. Using prompts like "What made me smile today?" can make this habit stick.

Mindfulness and Presence

Mindfulness and gratitude go hand in hand. By staying present, you notice the small joys—like a warm breeze or a friendly smile. Techniques like deep breathing or meditation help anchor you in the now. When you stay mindful, it’s easier to see what’s good rather than focusing on what’s missing or stressful.

Overcoming Obstacles to Gratitude

It’s normal to struggle with gratitude at times. Maybe entitlement, negativity, or stress cloud your mind. When that happens, try shifting your focus—think about what you’ve gained rather than lost. Also, remember that gratitude isn’t about ignoring problems; it’s about finding light in darkness. Practice patience and be gentle with yourself as you build this new outlook.

Expressing Gratitude to Others

Saying thanks can strengthen your bonds with family, friends, or coworkers. Simple gestures like writing a thank-you note or telling someone how much they mean to you boost their mood—and yours. Make it a daily habit to acknowledge others’ efforts, whether with a smile, a quick compliment, or a heartfelt “Thank you.”

Gratitude in Challenges

When life gets tough, gratitude can be your secret weapon. Instead of dwelling on what’s wrong, look for lessons and growth opportunities. Maybe a setback helped you develop patience or resilience. This positive spin turns difficulties into stepping stones, making you stronger and more hopeful.

Creating a Gratitude-Rich Environment

Your surroundings shape your mindset. Fill your space with signs of gratitude—photos of loved ones, inspiring quotes, or symbols of what you value. Encourage your family or coworkers to share what they’re thankful for during meal times or meetings. Small routines like these create a culture of appreciation that lifts everyone.

Enhancing Relationships

Gratitude breeds trust, empathy, and connection. When you thank others sincerely, you reinforce bonds and build stronger relationships. Cases show that couples who regularly express appreciation enjoy better communication and more happiness. Similarly, teams that share gratitude tend to be more cooperative and motivated.

Boosting Personal Happiness and Contentment

People who practice gratitude often report feeling happier overall. Even during stressful times, gratitude helps you focus on what’s good. Setting goals around gratitude—like writing a thank-you note every day—can keep your positive habits alive and growing. Small daily acts can spark long-lasting joy.

Leading with Gratitude in the Workplace

A workplace built on appreciation nourishes creativity and loyalty. Leaders who thank their teams inspire loyalty and boost morale. Companies that promote gratitude initiatives see higher productivity and better work culture. Recognizing effort and celebrating wins turn work into a place of growth and support.

"Living gratefully is not something we aspire to one day. It is what we do. When we practice, this doing shapes who we are, who we are becoming, and the life we lead, transforming our way of being.
Joe Primo" **

Living gratefully transforms how we see and experience life. It’s a simple yet powerful habit that boosts your mental and physical health, deepens relationships, and fills your days with joy. Begin with small steps—write down what you’re thankful for, thank someone today, or pause to enjoy the moment. These actions can change your way of being for the better. Make gratitude a lifelong practice, and watch your life bloom with positivity and purpose.

Start now—embrace gratitude and feel the difference it can make every day.

Resources:

** quote is from grateful.org

Ryan Robinson Blogging Tools

YouVersion Bible App - Scripture Image

Faith Reminder: Tomorrow Isn’t Promised, So Live Today Well

Our director called an "important and sensitive" WebEx this morning.  It was announced that a coworker passed away unexpectedly over the weekend.  The name is not being mentioned out of privacy as the family mourns the loss and navigates this difficult time.

Our work family will have grief counseling sessions once human resources has had a chance to work with the family.  I can only speak for myself but I'm simply stunned, shocked and my heart aches for the family my coworker left behind.

My coworker's passing made me think.

Tomorrow isn't promised, so don't wait to say what you feel. Every day can change in a second. People lose loved ones without warning. Plans can fall apart, jobs can vanish overnight. Life keeps moving, and nothing is guaranteed. Make sure to show kindness and chase your dreams today. Don't leave things unsaid or actions undone. The future is a mystery, but today is in your control. Live fully because you never know when time runs out.

Resources:

Scripture Image from YouVersion

Related blog post  The Light of Love: How God's Light Shines Through Us

Life Update – July 6, 2025: New Beginnings and Reflections

It's been a while since I've done a life update so I though I'd write an update.

Life has been busy both personally and professionally.

On the professional front, I had my annual performance review and my boss is pleased with what I've done.  He sees some new opportunities to work more with our security group.  Most of my work surrounds our web application firewall or WAF for short.  With 30 years in the organization, I also do a lot of education especially for new employees. Helping others can be a double edged sword at times - I appreciate when people read and ask questions about things that I write or advice that I offer.  What I don't like is when people sit on their hands expecting to be spoon-fed.  I had the latter happen to me this past week with the cherry on top being that the person who waited for my help proceeded to criticize and nit-pick me later.  After telling this person that, in the future, perhaps they should use available documentation to do their own work instead of expecting others to do work for them, I tried to turn the negative into a positive by working with more receptive coworkers to review some data to address some of the criticism that I received.  

The work scenario above soured my desire to be festive on the Fourth of July so outside of going to the grocery store that morning, I just laid low at home.  I spent a little time in the sun working on my "tan" before retreating to my air-conditioned house.  My late Grandpa Woodruff had skin cancer removed several times so while I don't like being pale, I don't sunbathe for long and I use a tanning oil with some SPF.

My husband travels a good bit in the summer for fun going places with the scouts doing fun things like zip lining, hiking, kayaking, etc.  He took  atrip with the Order of the Arrow (OA ) in early June. Jon and I got a little weekend trip of our own.  We went to Deer Creek State Park. We did a kayaking
program which really showed my weaknesses when it comes to kayaking!  I did a metro parks program last year where we were offered a bit of guidance on how to use the paddle before being told to go paddle and come back in 20 minutes.  We paddled for an about an hour at Deer Creek which included my getting stuck on several logs.  Thankfully, the naturalist guiding us and my husband were both very patient.  My husband bought two kayaks last summer and we're going to go out on our own at a put-in near our house.  Aside from kayaking, we walked around a car show at the campground and took a hike.  We opted to stay at the lodge instead of camping which is normally what my husband does on his summer trips. 

Our son works at Camp Falling Rock as the Brigade Commander.  Don't ask me what exactly he does other than a lot of work related to frontier and mountain man programs.  Summer means a lot of time spent at Camp Falling Rock (CFR).  My husband is the lodge advisor for an OA lodge that hosts Wednesday night float nights.  Rather than root beer floats served in the past, this year strawberry floats are being served. My husband or I go to our local Dollar General and buy out all of their two-liters of strawberry Fanta and Jon goes and buys gallons of vanilla ice cream at Kroger.  Jon likes pineapple so I bought a pineapple Fanta and is thinking about offering a "Lodge Master Surprise" float during the week he's at camp.

Speaking of scout camp, my husband spent a partial week at CFR volunteering at water front and anywhere else he was needed.  He'll be spend a week at camp with our local scout trip providing adult leadership as well as volunteering.  Jon always packs so much stuff when he goes to camp.  I recently attended mass with him and the gospel reading was about taking nothing with you - no extra shoes or shirts, leather working materials, frontiersman gear, etc. The context around this verse is that you are to rely on the kindness and hospitality of the people in whatever village you enter.  If you are not welcome, you "shake the dust from your feet" and move on.  This seems to go against scouting's "Be Prepared" methodology.  Jon will have several "traveling bags" or totes of supplies, extra shoes (not sandals), and several walking sticks.

Summer led to a change in my "regularly scheduled workout programming." When I prepped for the May powerlifting meeting, I lifted three times a week and did Crossfit once. Aside from one lift session with a coach, I did my other sessions during open gym.  To increase my strength as well as prep for my October meet, Coach Jonathan recommended that I do the Steadfast Strength class.  I do the 6 PM Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday nights.  I usually do the Crossfit partner workout on Saturday morning unless I have plans with Jon to go kayaking or hiking.  Sundays and Wednesdays are active rest days where I walk or use my elliptical machine.

Whew, that was a lot.  I told you life has been busy.  If you made it this far, thanks so much for reading!

Resources:

YouVersion Bible App - Scripture Image

Deer Creek State Park - Official ODNR Site