The PF Women Team at our Annual Team Retreat ~ 2018 Today on Seth Godin's blog, he said: It's tempting to decide to make a profit first, then invest in training, people, facilities, promotion, customer service and most of all, doing important work. In general, though, it goes the other way. Yes, it does. If you are waiting to make a profit before you do these things, in my experience you're not going to make a profit. So many organizations, ministries and churches are struggling with financial issues. I know your pain. As anyone who follows our story knows, our ministry was in a ton of debt four years ago when I came on as director. Since that time, we've gotten out of debt and turned a profit every year. God has done amazing things through out team, for which we give Him the glory! I find that what Seth is saying here is absolutely true, with one disclaimer. For Christian leaders, spiritual disciplines must always be first. Before we started inve
Last month I wrote my very first adoption related post here on my blog, and said it would probably be my first and last. I was aware of the controversy it would probably bring, as well as the hurtful feelings that would result if those who are not adoptees rose up to disagree.
Although everyone wasn't totally happy, the positive response was overwhelming. I received a lot of private mail that was encouraging, and it outweighed the negative reactions. A few people literally begged me to write more. I wrote a follow up post here, about what I planned to do next.
After prayer and consideration, I know I am supposed to start a separate blog about adoption, in addition to writing here at deannashrodes.net. I am working on this new blog (though it is not live yet), as well as launching a Tampa support group for adult adoptees. However, I believe the best way for me to get my feet wet as I start the blog and support group is to begin by joining others. I need to learn, grow and be a part of something bigger. It's important to broaden my horizons and take advantage of opportunities to collaborate with others. This will provide an atmosphere of support for me as I delve into this controversial topic that also affects me so personally.
For quite a while now I've been a regular reader of Lost Daughters. It's provided a soft place for me to land. Adult Adoptees understand in a way that others can't. Amanda, who leads Lost Daughters as well as writes The Declassified Adoptee, has been a huge blessing to me as well as many others. Actually, she's affecting millions with her work in adoptee rights. I recently became aware that adult adoptee women could apply to become guest posters or even part of the writing team at Lost Daughters.
Last month I applied to be on the writing team. Saturday night when I got back from vacation I received word that I was accepted to be a part of the team. In addition to writing with this amazing team, I get the privilege of participating in a private discussion group with them, which is a place to get to know one another on a deeper level, connect and help each other. I had no idea that was part of the benefit when I applied to be a writer there but I'm almost more excited about that than I am about posting! What an incredible reservoir of understanding, and wisdom. I'm so blessed. With every connection, I think I heal a little more. I am learning a lot and becoming better prepared to facilitate a group in Tampa.
My first post as a writer for Lost Daughters is today.
Lost Daughters specifically speaks to adult adopteee women and those who read here may not follow me there all the time. But, being this is a HUGE step for me, I thought you may want to at least take a peek at my debut there.
Thank you in advance for reading, for opening your mind and heart to what may be another viewpoint you may not have considered, and for loving me even if you don't agree.
Much love,
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