Over the course of a few months, I worked with Signs of Love, a nonprofit that serves deaf communities in underserved regions, to develop new illustrations. They desired a series of drawings that encapsulate the steps of a healthy, long-term relationship. We originally planned for six drawings to replace the ones currently in use. I added a seventh because it seemed strange to jump from pregnancy to old age with nothing in between.
relationships
Pursuing Joy
“Restriction is not an enemy of joy.” — Tyler David, The Austin Stone
Words that Wound
But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. — James 3:8 (NASB)
As a writer, I make my living with words. I know how they can be used. They can comfort and uplift. They can praise and glorify God. They also can be knives against a whetstone.
Love, Attention, and Consistency
If you want to get better at what you do, you have to have three qualities: love, attention, and consistency. If you want to meet the goals you’ve set, you need the same three things. If you want someone to know you care for them, you also need those three things. You have to give that person love and attention and do so with consistency.
Are You Easy to Get Along With?
Writers – most creative people, really – can be a touchy bunch. I know. I’m one of them. If asked if I’m easy to get along with, I could only say I try to be.
My youngest brother is the exact opposite. He’s the easiest person in the world to get along with. If he’s the “duck” of the family, I’m the porcupine. I more often turn “quilly” rather than let situations and stressors roll off me.
Do the Honorable Thing and Apologize
The past few years, I have dedicated myself to saying “I’m sorry” more often. It’s been a journey because my perfectionist self doesn’t like to apologize. She’s rather proud. She doesn’t like to admit when she’s failed.