being present

I Was the Hard-To-Be-Around Adult Until I Knew Better

“Because everyone that I know,Every place that I go,Every story that I’m told,It’s loveIt’s loveIt’s love That we’re looking for.”…
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Only Love & Togetherness: A Learning Trip Invitation to Rwanda

Dear friend, I am writing you today with a special invitation. At this time last year, you joined with fifteen-year-old…
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7 Remarkable Things You Can Count On When Life Isn’t Normal

“Have you given Banjo his breathing treatment?” my daughters ask. No one wants to miss it. Everyone gathers ‘round. Seven…
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The Brave Phrase We Cannot Tell Ourselves Too Many Times

This summer, I mailed my first package to Africa. I was repeatedly warned that it would not reach the recipient,…
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I Will Go With You: Encouraging Kids to Look Beyond Themselves When Stuck in a Place They Cannot Thrive

I recently received a text message from a dear friend and fellow writer. Kellie was about to publish an article…
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One Window Is All You Need: Heart Wisdom from a Teenage Wanderer

Guest Post by Natalie Rebecca Stafford, age 15 I was around four years old when I started asking my mom…
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I want to make memories, not to-do lists. I want to feel the squeeze of loving arms, not the pressure of over-commitment. I want to get lost in conversation with my favorite people, not consumed in a sea of unimportant emails. I want to be overwhelmed by sunsets that give me hope, not by overloaded agendas that steal my joy. I want the noise of my life to be a mixture of laughter & gratitude, not the intrusive buzz of mobile phones & text messages. I’m letting go of distraction, perfection, & pressure to grasp what really matters. I’m living Hands Free. Will you join me? (Read More)

“After attending one of Rachel’s speaking events, I am finding myself pausing more and re-setting my reactions to my spouse and children as a result of reflecting on the situations and lessons Rachel shared. Her decision to reveal the good, the bad, and the ugly, and what she’s learned as she’s worked to transform herself, has lasting impacts on her audience. Rachel’s lessons are like ripples in the ocean as they help others like me move towards choosing love and coming as we are. Rachel works wonders by helping others work wonders.” –A Hands Free Mama in progress