Parents have an incredible amount of power! We get to lead and shape the lives of the the next generation. No pressure! Unfortunately, we don't always do this perfectly. In fact, many mistakes are made along the way. One of the consequences of our misteps is discouragement. This experience exists well beyond the moment that the seed of discouragement is sown, and the effects can be severe. As parents we have to commit to learning from our mistakes and using our authority to encourage and build up our children. Their time under our care is limited!

Too often we have an almost lazer focus on the things that aren't going well. We can be quick to forget about the wins that we fought so hard to take hold of and give attention to the things that appear to be working against us. Even in the midst of challenge, we can see the good, stir up some much needed gratitude and gain courage to keep moving. Don't get hung up on the pain of resistance. Set your focus on the wins and there will be more to come!

As much as we may downplay it, fathers are so blessed when they're celebrated! To know that we are loved and supported by those closest to us is what matters most. We may not make this process easy though... Listen in as I discuss ways that you can celebrate the fathers in your life. This helps us to become better fathers, husbands and men on the other side of these moments. Guys, go ahead and make apparent what you want; and for those celebrating them, make sure they know that they're valued!

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The power of the reset button cannot be overstated! So many of us have the habit of carrying all of 'yesterday' into our 'now.' The result is offense, mental and physical tiredom and we place expectations on others that aren't fit or fair. My stepdaughter unknowingly introduced me to this concept as she would quickly move past the not-so-positive moments, as if holding onto even the most recent history wasn't worth it. You'll find that this tool will come in handy on a daily basis (sometimes hourly), as we put forth our best efforts to blend well!

I took the time to answer some blended family questions that I'm sure each of us can relate to!

Do you accept yourself? As you are? At this very moment?

Most are either slow to answer the question or quick to pinpoint areas that require some serious maintenance. However, it's not just possible, but it is necessary that we are content even in the midst of our efforts to improve. Each of us will have the opportunity to take a step toward acceptance as we work to become best version of ourselves and everything that our family could ask for.

Our walk does not always match the talk... You don't have to be a monster for a bit of hypocricy to show up in your parenting. In fact, the more we reflect the love and character of Jesus, the more likely we'll be to recognize the inconsistencies in the way that we lead. Parenting with integrity may require a bit more from us on a daily basis, but what it does for our families is well worth the effort!

Have you ever come to the realization that you're carrying wounds from a previous relationship? Have you underestimated the impact that yesterday's wounds are having in this present moment? Welcome to the club! Our relationships, especially our love interests, can result in emotional, mental and spiritual scars. Simply moving on from hurt and suspecting that we're ready for another commitment is insufficient for healing at best, and extremely dangerous in the worst of situations. With time, community, and forgiveness, we can all be healed. Even in the face of situations that have resulted in even the deepest wounds.

We can be "well meaning" in our efforts and genuine about our intent to love and support everyone that we encounter. Regardless, we will likely find ourselves on the receiving end of disapproval from others at some point. If we're being honest, this typically isn't a comfortable position to be in. In fact, this experience can be crushing. Especially if this sense of rejection is happening in our own homes. Nonetheless, continuing to build a foundation for our family, and establishing a level of self-respect that will eventually speak for itself, will shrink the voices of disapproval. There is hope for tomorrow, even if they don't like you today!

I felt the need to reshare last years most popular episode! I heard from a number of stepparents how difficult it was for them to practice the NACHO parenting style. These individuals had a difficult time embracing the the idea of "not my kid, not my problem." The issue of adopting this approach to parenting is the reality that you cannot be commited and faithful within your unique role, while also believing that the challenges within your home require you to be less than your best. Whether step or biological, as parents we function within certain limits. Regardless of the extent of our bounds, our job is to love, instruct, and shape our kids for their sake, not our own.