I’m preparing to attend the Oregon Christian Writer’s Conference in Portland next week and have to admit it’s been a struggle to get my head in the game after what turned out to be a tragic July for my family. My brother’s wife, Victoria, took her own life on the 4^th of July. She was 39 years old and we did not see it coming. Those who knew her well understood she battled depression and detachment disorder, but we also witnessed her wonderful capacity to love others and her vigilant approach to self-care. She lived a very healthy lifestyle and was pursuing projects that we thought would bring her joy. In the end, it wasn’t enough. Continue reading →