Tag: family

Memorial Day: Reflection, Family, and Faith

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

This weekend, many of us will gather with family and friends, grateful for the pause and the unofficial start of summer. There will be laughter, shared meals, and the simple joy of togetherness. But as we embrace these moments of peace, it’s essential to hold space for the profound reason we are given this day: to remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.

Memorial Day is a day of solemn remembrance. It’s a day to honor those who laid down their lives in service to our nation. For many, this is not a day of celebration but one of quiet reflection, of visiting cemeteries, and of honoring the empty chair at the family table. It’s a powerful reminder that our peace was purchased at a great price.

At The Rising Muse, we believe in the convergence of faith, mental health, family, and personal growth. On Memorial Day, these pillars of our community are poignantly intertwined.

Faith in Sorrow

For families of the fallen, faith can be both a sanctuary and a struggle. The loss of a loved one can test the very foundations of what we believe. Yet, it is often in these moments of profound grief that faith can offer a glimmer of hope—a belief in a peace that surpasses all understanding and a reunion beyond this life. This Memorial Day, let us hold in our hearts the Gold Star Families, who walk a journey of faith and resilience that most of us will never know. Let us pray for their comfort and their strength.

The Weight of Remembrance and Our Mental Health

Grief is a heavy burden, and for military families, it is a unique and often lifelong journey. The quiet respect we show on Memorial Day is a testament to our collective acknowledgment of their loss. It is a way of saying, “Your loved one is not forgotten. Their sacrifice matters.”

Honoring this day with intention is also an act of communal mental well-being. It allows us to connect with a sense of gratitude and to understand the cost of the freedoms we often take for granted. By taking a moment for silent reflection or by participating in a memorial service, we create a space for collective healing and remembrance.

The Enduring Strength of Family

The families of our fallen heroes are a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit. They carry on the legacy of their loved ones through their own lives of service, courage, and love. They are a vital part of our national family, and on this day, we have a sacred duty to remember them, to support them, and to honor the sacrifices they have also made.

Personal Growth Through Remembrance

How do we live a life that is worthy of such a great sacrifice? This is perhaps the most profound question Memorial Day asks of us. It calls us to a higher purpose in our own lives. It challenges us to be better citizens, kinder neighbors, and more engaged members of our communities.

Let this Memorial Day be a catalyst for your personal growth. Reflect on the freedoms you have and consider how you can use them to make a positive impact. Perhaps it’s by volunteering, by having meaningful conversations with your children about the cost of freedom, or by simply living with a greater sense of purpose and gratitude.

This Memorial Day, as you gather with your loved ones, we invite you to join us at The Rising Muse in a moment of quiet reflection. Let us remember the fallen, honor their families, and commit to living lives that are a testament to their enduring sacrifice.

May we never forget.

Faith, Family & Thought-Provoking Conversations

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In this powerful episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we dive into two intriguing incidents that have sparked deep conversations in the faith community. With thought-provoking insights, Naty and Veda break down some recent incidents regarding Paula White and Marvin Sapp, challenging perspectives and asking the tough questions many are thinking but few are saying.

How do faith, culture, and controversy intersect? What lessons can we take away from these moments? And most importantly, where do we go from here? If you’ve ever questioned the narratives shaping modern spirituality, this episode is for you.

Join us for a candid and unfiltered discussion that will leave you reflecting long after the episode ends.

🎧 Hit play and be part of the conversation now!

#MentalHealth #ThrivePodcast #CriticalThinking #ChristianCulture #DeepConversations

Embracing Change with Faith and Understanding: Introducing Rising Muse on Substack

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts, Writing HappeningsLeave a comment

In these times of rapid change and shifting social landscapes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of transformation happening all around us. Whether you find yourself aligned with these shifts or feeling a sense of unease, one truth remains clear: we are living in a period of profound transition.

Change, by its very nature, can be unsettling. It challenges long-held beliefs and forces us to re-evaluate the very fabric of our society. For those who are struggling with the pace of change, know that your feelings are valid. It is perfectly natural to feel apprehensive, confused, or even frustrated when faced with uncertainty.

At the same time, for those who embrace these changes, it is crucial to extend compassion and understanding to those who may see the world differently. Every individual is on their own journey of understanding, shaped by unique experiences and perspectives. Engaging in respectful dialogue, listening with an open heart, and seeking common ground can help bridge divides and foster a more inclusive and empathetic society.

The Bible provides wisdom for navigating such times: “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:5). This verse encourages us to approach others with kindness, patience, and understanding, recognizing that everyone is working through their own beliefs and challenges.

In the spirit of fostering meaningful conversations and exploring these complex issues, we are thrilled to introduce The Rising Muse on Substack! Our new platform will serve as a space to delve deeper into topics of faith, family, and mental health—areas that are essential to navigating today’s world with grace and wisdom.

At The Rising Muse, we believe that through open dialogue, shared experiences, and faith-centered discussions, we can find strength and clarity in times of uncertainty. Our goal is to create a community where we can learn, grow, and support one another as we embrace the changes that life presents.

We invite you to be part of this journey by subscribing to our Substack, engaging with our content, and joining in on the conversations that matter. Your support enables us to continue building a space for thought-provoking discussions and spiritual growth. Together, let’s walk this path with faith, understanding, and a commitment to kindness.

Subscribe today and be a part of The Rising Muse—where faith meets change, and understanding leads to transformation. See you there!

Unveiling Stories of Hope with Jacob Bowker

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Mental health is a profound journey, often marked by challenges and revelations. In the latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we dive deep into this topic with a remarkable guest, Jacob Bowker. As a father of four boys, an author, a podcaster, and a certified mental health coach, Jacob brings a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to our conversation.

Jacob’s story is both moving and inspiring. When his son was hospitalized due to mental health issues, Jacob realized the dire need for faith-based resources for families struggling with similar challenges. This realization spurred the creation of Story Ministry, an organization dedicated to supporting families through the intersections of mental health, addiction, and faith.

Story Ministry’s unique family-centered approach aims to empower families, helping them establish healthy boundaries and become stronger together. Jacob emphasizes the importance of not neglecting any family member and working collectively to heal and support one another.

Jacob discusses how Story Ministry collaborates with licensed therapists to create resources that guide individuals through their mental health journeys. By incorporating Bible verses and faith-based teachings, they offer a holistic approach to coping and healing. Jacob’s perspective on the need for healthy coping mechanisms, as opposed to simply relying on medication, provides a refreshing take on mental health treatment.

A key aspect of Story Ministry’s mission is to proactively educate and support communities. Jacob highlights their efforts to integrate mental health education into schools, starting with teachers and staff. By equipping educators with the knowledge and tools to support students, they aim to foster a more understanding and supportive environment from a young age.

Story Ministry also partners with churches, offering weekly small groups and Bible study sessions focused on mental health. These groups provide a safe space for individuals to share their struggles and find support within their faith community.

Jacob’s message is clear: mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being and should not be separated from our spiritual lives. He encourages listeners to reach out for help, support one another, and approach mental health with empathy and understanding.

Are you intrigued by Jacob’s insights and the mission of Story Ministry? Tune into the full episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse to hear more about Jacob’s journey and how Story Ministry is making a difference in the lives of many.

Subscribe to Thrive by The Rising Muse on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay updated on our latest episodes and mental health resources. Join us in breaking the stigma and building a supportive community where every story matters.

Don’t miss this enlightening conversation with Jacob Bowker. Click here to listen now and become part of a movement that embraces mental health and faith together.

Discovering God in Daily Moments

On By Naty MatosIn Thrive, Writing HappeningsLeave a comment

Are you ready to embark on a journey of faith, family, and mental health? Join us for a captivating conversation with Emily Hill, where we delve into the depths of life’s challenges and triumphs.

Emily’s story is one of resilience and discovery. Growing up in a pastor’s home, life seemed picture-perfect until the harsh realities of adulthood hit hard. From navigating the joys and struggles of marriage to grappling with the profound loss of miscarriage, Emily shares candidly about her journey through grief, anger, and ultimately, healing.

In this episode, Emily invites us into her world, where faith intersects with the everyday moments of life. Through personal anecdotes and reflections on scripture, she reveals how she found solace and purpose in the midst of darkness, discovering the real presence of God in the mundane and momentous alike.

But the conversation doesn’t stop there. Emily shines a light on the stigma surrounding mental health in religious communities, advocating for open dialogue and acceptance. She shares her vision for faith communities to become spaces of healing and support, where individuals can find both spiritual and tangible resources for mental well-being.

And don’t forget to check out Emily’s book, “Everyday Epiphany,” a devotional that explores the presence and purpose of God in the everyday moments of life. With personal anecdotes and insights drawn from scripture, this book offers a guiding light for those seeking to deepen their faith and find meaning in the midst of life’s challenges.

Join us as we explore the thin places where the natural and spiritual worlds collide, where grief is met with grace, and where hope shines brightest in the darkest of moments. Whether you’re seeking comfort, inspiration, or simply a listening ear, this episode promises to touch your heart and uplift your spirit.

Don’t miss out on this empowering conversation with Emily Hill, as we navigate the complexities of everyday life with faith, family, and mental health as our guiding lights.

Watch the full episode by clicking here and embark on your own journey of discovery and resilience. Because in the midst of life’s challenges, there is always hope to be found.

Breaking Free from the Prison of Expectations

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In the intricate dance of relationships, we often find ourselves stumbling over the unspoken expectations we place on others. It’s a familiar narrative – the silent anticipation that someone should intuitively understand our needs, emotions, and desires. But the truth is, expecting others to see the world through our lens is not only unfair but a recipe for heartache. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the perils of uncommunicated expectations and explore how the art of journaling, especially in the context of the “15 Day Challenge to a Stronger You!” book, can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and healthier relationships.

The Unspoken Burden of Expectations

Imagine a world where everyone perceives and processes information the same way you do. Sounds ideal, right? Yet, even identical twins possess unique perspectives. So, expecting those around us to filter information precisely as we do is setting the stage for disappointment. We often catch ourselves saying, “They should have known,” forgetting that fairness prevails only when expectations are communicated.

The Communication Gap

Communication is the key to any successful relationship, yet we frequently fall into the trap of assuming others can read our minds. “They should have known I needed help,” we lament, without realizing that our needs and feelings remain unexpressed. A recent personal experience highlights this common dilemma. Feeling overwhelmed, I expected assistance without explicitly asking for it. When the support didn’t materialize, frustration set in.

The Gut Check Moment

Upon reflection, I recognized the flaw in my expectations. How could I fault someone for not meeting unspoken needs? I hadn’t communicated my distress or explicitly asked for help. The initial resentment I felt melted away when I acknowledged my role in the miscommunication. I also understood that others, even those who typically support us, may not always be able or willing to do so.

The Liberating Power of Communication

The bottom line is clear: unspoken expectations are a breeding ground for disappointment and strained relationships. We construct intricate scenarios in our minds, clinging to the “should be” rather than accepting the “what is.” The key to liberation lies in freeing those around us from the prison of our expectations. This simple shift can transform our interactions, nurturing healthier relationships and shielding us from unnecessary grief.

Take the 15-Day Challenge to a Stronger You!

Embark on a transformative journey with the “15 Day Challenge to a Stronger You!” book. Delve into the power of journaling, a potent tool to uncover patterns of unspoken expectations. The journaling challenge, in particular, equips you with the skills to detect moments where unrealistic expectations may sabotage your relationships.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to break free from the confines of unspoken expectations. Grab your copy of “15 Day Challenge to a Stronger You!” and immerse yourself in the journaling challenge. Discover the profound impact of effective communication on your relationships and witness the positive transformation in your life.

Take the first step toward a stronger, more fulfilling you – communicate, express, and break free from the prison of unspoken expectations. Your relationships will thank you for it.

Remembering 9/11: United We Stand

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment
Photo by Aidan Nguyen on Pexels.com

Today marks the 22nd anniversary of the most significant terrorist attack on American soil, a day etched into the collective memory of our nation. On September 11, 2001, we watched in disbelief as the Twin Towers crumbled, a plane struck the Pentagon, and Flight 93, with brave passengers on board, plummeted to the earth. These tragic events shook our nation to its core, but they also revealed the indomitable spirit and unity of the American people.

Coming Together in Crisis:

Amidst the horror and chaos of that fateful day, something extraordinary happened. People from all walks of life and corners of the country came together to offer their assistance. Strangers became heroes as they rushed to the disaster areas, risking their own safety to save lives and provide support. The tragedy forced us to confront our own mortality and reevaluate our priorities.

Rediscovering Faith and Family:

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels.com

In the wake of 9/11, many turned to faith for solace and understanding. Houses of worship saw an influx of people seeking comfort and guidance. Families, separated by time and distance, reached out to one another, not just to check on their well-being in affected areas but also as a profound reminder of the fragility of life.

The Divisions That Have Emerged:

Over the past 22 years, our nation has weathered many storms. However, we’ve also witnessed a troubling trend of division and discord. Our differences have taken center stage, overshadowing our commonalities. It’s time to remember the unity we once found in the face of adversity.

Seeking Common Ground:

We may not always agree on the path forward, but we must remember that we all want the same thing: a better future for our nation. It’s crucial to set aside our differences and engage in constructive dialogue. We should return to the table, identify our shared goals, and work together to find common ground.

A Nation Under God:

In a nation as diverse as ours, we must cherish the values that unite us. It’s time to put aside division and embrace cooperation. Together, we can ensure that the sacrifices made on 9/11 were not in vain, and we can build a brighter future for all Americans. United we stand, divided we fall—let’s choose unity.

The idea of America being a Christian nation is a topic of debate. However, if we truly believe that we are one nation under God, then we should have no trouble finding ways to compromise for the greater good. A house divided cannot stand, and it is our duty to ensure our nation remains united and strong.

As we commemorate the 22nd anniversary of 9/11, let us not only remember the lives lost and the bravery displayed that day but also the unity and resilience of the American people. We should never forget the lessons we learned on that fateful day, lessons of coming together in times of crisis, rediscovering our faith and family bonds, and seeking common ground despite our differences.

Are we celebrating the REAL Christmas?

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational Thoughts2 Comments

The last 48 hours have been quite funny and sad at the same time. For the last 6 years I had stopped celebrating Christmas. I got divorced 6 years ago. I live alone with my dog and felt that there was no reason for me to put decorations or cook a big meal because I didn’t have anyone to share it with. Yes, I’ve gotten invitations from family and church family members, but it didn’t feel the same.

This year I got really down during Thanksgiving for the same reason. One of my brother’s in Christ saw me the Monday after and I told him how I was feeling. He told me to decorate my place and invite him and his wife over for dinner. Although I appreciate their gesture; something didn’t set well with me.

The next Sunday, visiting a friend’s church, they were talking about the meaning of Christmas. The pastor was talking about the time when Mary was visited by the angel. We all know the story, the angel told her she was going to fulfill the prophecy, have a virgin birth. She basically said let God’s will be done. Joseph wasn’t happy, but another angel came and told him this is from God and he went OK. He married Mary and off they went to Bethlehem and had the baby.

Was it that easy? I’m not a parent. Your 14 year old comes home and says she’s pregnant by the Holy Spirit. Think about it, I’ll wait. Your virgin fiance tells you that she’s pregnant by the Holy Spirit. I’ll give you a chance to digest that. You are minding your business cleaning the house and an angel shows up and tells you that you are going to be carrying God’s child.

The faith and obedience that Joseph and Mary had to believe God’s plan against what the world was in those times and it’s right now, most of us wouldn’t pass that test.

It got me thinking, what are we really celebrating? Everyone knows that Jesus was not born on December 25th, but that as a society we picked that day to celebrate his birthday. Are we really? Our Christmas celebrations have become about us and not about Jesus, even for those of us who go to church.

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I’m sure many will think I’m the Grinch and I’ve come to terms with that. Our traditional Christmas celebration is usually to decorate the house, a tree, and have lots of food. I’ve heard that Christmas is about gathering the family together. I didn’t read that during the story of Christ’s birth, but here we go. And of course we need presents, lots of them, especially for the kids, because we need to make it special for them. So we go to church, and pray before the meal and read under the Christmas tree the story of the birth… Being the good Christians that we are,”right”?

I think we’re wrong.

If we’re going to celebrate the birth of our Lord, shouldn’t we be giving gifts to him? Shouldn’t this be a day of service to others as an offering to him instead of serving ourselves? Naty, what the idea of getting together with the family? You can do that any time of the year. Actually why are you waiting for Christmas to tell anyone you love them? That sweater or new TV is going to be the same sweater or TV March 13th as it is on December 25th. Save that gift for that person’s birthday.

Naty, what about the kids? What about starting to teach our children the true meaning of Christmas so that they don’t stumble through the same paths that we have?

We get hung up on coffee cups (which I know it was a hoax). We say we need to put Christ back in Christmas, when our celebrations don’t put Christ in Christmas.

As I was thinking about this post I realized that the majority of us actually partake in the 7 deadly sins even while  celebrating that God sent his only son to save us from hell. Naty you are exaggerating! Am I?

Gluttony- I don’t even have to explain that.

Anger- It’s a joke already about the fights that happen when the family gets together.

Lust-Remember lust is not only about sex, but about things and pleasures that have nothing to do with God.

Envy-Wait, why is their gift better than mine?

Pride- I’m not inviting/calling XYZ, You remember what s/he did to7-Deadly-Sins me? Or, I have to make sure my outfit is perfect for the next Christmas party.

Sloth-This one comes right after the gluttony attack.

Greed-It’s the season to “give” but I’m expecting to receive too.

We already received our Christmas present. It is JESUS, is he not enough?

That was my revelation. I realized that when I was married, I still didn’t have a big family. It was usually  my husband, my mom and I. But I used to invite anyone who didn’t have a place to celebrate to my house. I was sad out of my selfishness because I had forgotten who my real brothers and sister’s really were. I had bought into the lie of the traditional Christmas. And as I try to get closer to God I’m no longer afraid to be criticized for not following the world but for following Christ.

I think this is the real gift, anyone who says that they love the Lord should give to Jesus on December 25th. Ironically this is in Matthew 25:34-40

 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.  For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,  I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’

 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?  When did we see you a stranger and invite you in or needing clothes and clothe you?  When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

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I challenge you to celebrate the true nature of Christmas. From this year forward, I know I will.

Merry Christmas

New Release: A Brother’s Vow

On By Naty MatosIn Writing Happenings1 Comment

I’m very happy to announce the release of my new novel  “A Brother’s Vow” Writing this book taught me a lot about Grace, family dynamics and spiritual warfare. It is amazing how God uses everything to teach us and push us to grow to the next level. I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Blessings… Naty

A Brother's Vow (Final)

You can obtain your copy today at

Amazon.com, Barnes & Nobles and Smashwords.

(Print copies will be available within the next few weeks)

Randall Benson didn’t think life could be any better. His job with the family business allowed him to travel and meet new people. His relationship with his girlfriend the model, gave his access to all the red carpet events and parties, yet there was no requirement for him to be faithful. Although his family doesn’t approve of his careless lifestyle, they love him and do whatever they can to keep him from self-destructing. Yet Randall’s only concern is Randall.

Randall’s world begins to come undone after a series of unexpected events. As Randall tries to settle down and become more dependable, his twin brother Brian seems to be headed down a path that Randall is way too familiar. Brian makes an unusual request that nonchalantly he agrees to keep. He never thought that he would have to keep his word, but he does. As Randall struggles to fulfill his promise to his brother, he is confronted with challenges from his past. Will he succumb to his past and risk losing everything he’s worked so hard to accomplish?

Finding Our Way, Figuring it Out

On By Naty MatosIn Writing HappeningsLeave a comment

 By Deb DeArmond

 

September 26 is National Daughter-in-Law Day. I’m blessed with three wonderful DILs. I’ve also authored a book on relationships between Daughters-in-Law and Mothers-in-Law. Related By Chance, Family By Choice, releasing November 1. This article is written as a reminder to mother-in-laws to honor those sometimes considered “the other woman.”

 

“You know what I love about you?” asked my daughter-in-law Sarah as we sat in our favorite coffeehouse. “You don’t have an opinion about everything we do.”

 

I almost laughed out loud.

 

​“Of course, I do,” I replied. “I’m just not entitled to give it unless you ask for it or God instructs me to share it.”

 

She seemed surprised—and that felt good. Those who know me are aware I always have an opinion. Her surprise was feedback that I’d done a fairly good job of keeping it to myself more often than not.

 

Unsolicited advice on topics like finances, childrearing, cooking, or housekeeping masked behind “I’m just trying to help”—are a recipe for conflict. To your son’s wife, it sends the message that what she’s doing isn’t acceptable—she may feel you’re attempting to control her and the home she’s making for her family. The need to control never comes from a position of love. It comes from a position of fear. Let it go.

 

Instead, set your heart to pray for your daughter-in-law, to encourage her, to learn what’s important to her. I’d never been interested in the sport of running until DIL Penny joined our family. I’m looking forward to attending a race that marks her return to competitive running after the birth of my grandson. She’s her regaining her strength and speed. It’s been fun to share in her success, and I’m so proud of her.

 

When you appreciate the young woman your son has chosen, the need to point out her shortcomings becomes less tempting. Once you see her as God made her to be, you stop seeing flaws and you value her in a new way.

 

I recently shared an important lesson with a young friend, raising two little boys. She can’t imagine a woman could ever be good enough for them.

 

“If you make your sons the center of your world,” I told her, “you will be devastated, because you will never be the center of theirs.” She nodded, her eyes brimming with tears, the truth of the words sinking into her heart.

 

“How can I get beyond this? What can I do to make sure I don’t become a monster-in-law who ends up alienating not only my future daughters-in-law, but my sons as well?”

 

Here are the tips I shared with her.

 

  • Accept the Word as the authority on family order. The Lord is clear on this. The covenant we make is with our husbands, not our sons. Scripture in both the Old and New Testament all carry nearly identical passages about leaving and cleaving. It’s critical we acknowledge and submit to this principle. If it’s God’s plan for the family, it should be our plan.

 

  • Surrender your need to advise. This can be tough, but’s not optional. Wait till she asks, or until God prompts you. She may do things differently than you, but different is not wrong, it’s just different.

 

  • Pray for your son’s spouse-to-be. Son still single? Pray! When our son proposed after a very brief courtship, friends questioned my calm. The answer was simple: I had prayed for her all of his life. My heart recognized her the moment I met her. I experienced peace, certain of his choice. Praying for your son and his future wife when they’re still children also helps to prepare your heart. So no matter his age, pray. Start now.

 

When you are willing to honor your son’s choice, you are honoring God and walking in obedience. I didn’t lose my sons; I gained three wonderful daughters. What a gift.

 

The boys did not necessarily want a girl “just like the girl that married dear old dad.” We are unique, different from one another, but we share a love for Jesus and the desire to live life together successfully as a family. I learned to think of the differences as a gift. Different isn’t wrong—it’s just different.

 

Amazing how much easier it was to suspend judgment when I stopped comparing my way to theirs. I’ve been surprised by how much they can teach me if I’m open to learning. We’ve grown closer as a result. I know these are smart girls—they think my boys are wonderful!

 

CONTACT INFORMATION:

 Deb DeArmond

Email: deb.dearmond@gmail.com

Website: Deb DeArmond/Family Matters

Phone: 817-283-1108

Publisher: Kregel Publications

Member: AWSA, ACFW, Christian Writer’s Guild, CLASSeminar Graduate

 

Deb DeArmond is an expert in the fields of communication, relationship and conflict resolution. A writer and professional speaker, Deb focuses on topics related to the family and women. Kregel Publications will release her first book in November 2013 entitled, Related by Chance, Family by Choice, focused on relationships between women-in-law. She is co-founder of My Purpose Now, a website devoted to Christian women 50+. Read Deb at Family Matters/Deb DeArmond and My Purpose Now.