Remember how I chose one word to focus on in 2014? That one word is grace.
Giving grace to myself.
Still learning. I’ve allowed myself more time away from writing this year than in all of the last five years combined. And when I feel guilty about it, I remind myself, Grace. I repeat what my wise friend Judy has said– that I need to trust that the writing will still be there for me when I return to it.
Giving grace to others.
Honestly, this is easier for me to do than to dole it out to myself. When you have screwed up as much as I have, it makes it a lot easier to say to others, “It’s okay” and “Me too” and “It’s forgotten.” I love that. I am so happy to see this aptitude for grace is so tremendously strong amongst my group of dear friends. I learn so much from them.
Receiving grace from God.
I was recently reading the book of Galatians and marveling once again over the incredible truth that rule-keeping does not bring life. “Doing things for God is the opposite of entering into what God does for you” (MSG). I feel such gratefulness, such freedom. I marvel at this gift.
I am spending this week in northern Minnesota, alone in a (really nice) condo, attempting to knock out a ton of necessary revisions. Leave me lots of comments this week because I’ll be going crazy from writing in solitude by the end of it! If you pray, pray for me!
Image credit: unknown
JACKIE LEA SOMMERS 
I would like to find a therapist that understands Catholicism. I tried one, but he just didn’t get it. Is there any possibility that you can refer a therapist.
Hi Karen! It can sure be hard to discuss OCD (especially religious scrupulosity) with someone who is unfamiliar with your faith. But for me, the ERP therapist who broke my chains was amazing at ERP and did not exactly share my same views of God. I’ve written about this EXACT question at https://jackieleasommers.com/2013/07/28/ocd-erp-and-christianity. Unfortunately, I can only recommend therapists in the Twin Cities … or maybe that is where you live?
I hope your week goes well. I’ve been thinking quite a bit about grace lately. Today at church the pastor talked about grace a bit (we were in Romans 11), and he said over and over “let grace be grace. Grace with conditions attached isn’t grace.” good thought.
Love that. Grace– real grace– is SO pure.
Really love this! Grace has to be my most favorite word in the universe.
I really like your beautiful new pic too! Your hair color is so lovely.
Thank you, Monique! You’re so sweet.
And yes, GRACE is one of the sweetest words and sweetest concepts I can fathom!
Love post Jackie!
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Thank you, friend!
Wishing you a wonderful week, filled with Grace in all ways, shapes, and forms.
Appreciate that, Janet!
Keep on plugging away Jackie! I’ll be praying 🙂
Thanks, doll!!!