For most of my life, I have been learning through conversation. Sharing life with others has provided opportunities for the Spirit to speak and help shape the person I am today.
Over the years, I have learned that some of the most interesting conversations take place with people whose life experience is different than my own. People who hold different beliefs, world views, or perspectives have much to offer – if only I am willing to listen.
A true conversation, the type where people feel safe sharing their stories is not always easy. It often means I must focus on hearing what they are sharing and watching for opportunities of connection. Connection occurs when people are truly heard, listen to others, and as a result, experience moments of growth.
It is enough to say that there is little in the way of true conversation taking place within our world today. Especially among people with divergent worldviews.
A Cancer Perspective
When I was first diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer back in May 2016, I really wrestled with how to invest the remainder of my life. Doctors told me I had little time, and I wanted to use it well. I remember the day, sitting in my office at First Baptist Church when I got very clear on what was important. Less time strategizing, planning, sitting alone in an office…more time investing in life-giving conversations. From that day forward, I spent more time in coffee shops, and restaurants just hanging out with people and having truly amazing conversations.
As I walked away from each conversation, I was humbled by what I had learned, and how the Spirit used the time to help me grow.
Nick
One of my frequent coffee partners is my good friend Nick. We have spent countless hours in local coffee shops sharing life and discussing just about everything under the sun.
While the spiritual experience is important to both of us, our journeys have been different. The language we use captures what is important to each of us. Nick has challenged my thinking and helped me grow as a person of faith.
Do We Really Need Another Podcast?
A while back I found myself thinking that some of the conversations I have been blessed to have were really amazing. People sharing from the depths of their lives and helping me understand myself, life, and pursuit of things spiritual. What would it look like if we tried to share some of them with others?
Over coffee one morning Nick and I talked about the possibility of working together to capture the stories of others. We have no set topic list. The more diverse it gets the more successful we will consider ourselves. Our goal is to help provide a place where people can share their stories.
Stick with us and you will hear us talk with those who already have platforms to share their stories. We want to dig deeper and help you understand the person behind the program (so to speak). A real joy is when we provide a place for those without a platform to share their story. There are so many GREAT stories within our communities that should be shared. We want to help make that happen.
A new episode will drop every Monday.
