Recently, I was in a conversation with a group of friends, listening intently to a heated conversation. I was growing a bit worried about how the two of them would resolve their differences and de-escalate from the intensity. I don’t recall the topic of debate, but one of the participants said, “Are you willing to be wrong?”

So, your invitation has arrived. Your family reunion is happening late this summer. Your first reaction is, “No! I can’t survive another one of those with unbelievably angry Uncle ______ and/or critical and judgmental Cousin ______.” You feel terrified about the idea of attending because of painful past experiences. You could just ignore the invitation and not attend, but you also know that if you don’t go it might cause even greater rifts and unrest in other family members.

Sometimes it is entirely appropriate, and even necessary to teach with boldness. To offer a witness and testimony of our faith in Christ and his teachings. However, maybe more often, we must rely on the whisperings of our spirit and have faith that the Holy Ghost will do the rest. Sometimes this softer, gentler method, combined with patience and long-suffering carries the greatest power of influence.

You may have heard about ketamine, and wondered if it would be a benefit to you or someone you love who struggles with their mental health and well-being. Is it safe? Does it really work? Ketamine therapy is emerging as a promising treatment for mental illness.

Independence Day represents freedom and democracy and the founding ideals—life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It represents the courage and sacrifice of the signers as they risked everything for independence. It was a bold rebellion against a powerful empire.

The World Happiness Report was recently released and showed an alarming drop in the well-being of US citizens. Particularly concerning is that the greatest decline was in those below 30 years of age, however, the dip in happiness has hit people of all ages.

It is important to reflect on the Savior’s plea for us to come unto Him, to reach to Him, to draw near unto Him. I am convinced it is because when we reach to Him for help in overcoming and rising above our sins, our weaknesses, and our mistakes it is because in the process of our reaches to Him we will access a power we never imagined possible. That power is what helps us “become something more.”

Have you ever had a question about God or the meaning and purpose of life, but you felt guilty for having that question? Maybe you worried about whom you could approach with that question for fear of being judged or reprimanded as rebellious or disrespectful for even questioning something you should just accept and move on.

Recently, one of my clients came in feeling despondent and frustrated. They had experienced a job loss 3 months ago and this was a large company they had been with for over 20 years. My client told me they had prayed so hard but they believed there was no peace available to them, and that God may not even exist. “I really don’t believe my prayers are being heard. I feel like no one is listening… Is God really there? Does he really care about me?”

Are you someone who considers themselves in a faith crisis? In my clinical practice I have had the privilege of sitting with clients who come in with aching hearts, grieving from the loss of connections with loved ones and friends who have become distant and withdrawn. They feel judged, misunderstood, and a bit wobbly in direction.

Forgiveness is hard because it often feels like giving up a part of ourselves—our pain, our need for justice, or even our pride. When we’ve been hurt, it’s natural to want acknowledgment or even retribution, and letting go can feel like we’re saying the harm didn’t matter, which is not at all true.

In a world that is achievement-driven and fast-paced, it is difficult for parents to cultivate emotional intelligence and high well-being in their children. It is tempting for parents to focus on achievement such as grades, dance, and sports. However, studies are finding that shifting their focus to emotional awareness may contribute to happier, healthier, and more successful children.

Many of us get so caught up in our daily concerns, we forget to pause and reflect on the depth and meaning of the relationships that mean the most to us. Remember, don’t wait for Valentines Day to demonstrate love to those who matter most to you. Commit to make today a special day to celebrate those who mean the most to you. Make today a day full of expressions of gratitude for the precious gift of love in your life. 

Shortly after Halloween, many people start to feel anxious about the holidays. They might feel like everybody else talks about the excitement of the holiday season, but for them, this is a dreadful time of year. Sometimes family gatherings may involve tension and competition. There things you can do to survive the experience without cutting off your family altogether.

During the holidays when Christmas season is in full swing a spirit of excitement fills the air and people begin to seek ways to gather and celebrate. Many families gather their loved ones to participate in traditions to build new memories… traditions that have been passed down through the decades. Studies show that traditions play a significant role in keeping families close by creating consistent, shared experiences that connect generations.

Conquering social anxiety is a gradual process that often involves a combination of gaining knowledge and an understandng of the disorder, self-help strategies, and professional support.

Humility is sometimes mistakenly perceived as a weakness, but in reality, it is a profound strength. This misconception often arises because humility involves qualities like modesty, admitting mistakes, and putting others first, which can be misunderstood as passivity or a lack of confidence. However, true humility requires a great deal of inner strength and self-assurance.

While anger itself is normal, how we express it and deal with it is crucial. When managed well, anger can be constructive, helping to set boundaries or bring about positive change. But if it’s left unchecked or expressed in harmful ways, it can lead to problems in relationships, work, and overall well-being.

Do joy and happiness carry the same meaning? They are often used interchangeably, but when defined, you will see they are distinctly different terms.