This episode of the voice lessons series contains memories and significant events of my early childhood and my K-12 school days. 

Over the next several episodes, I'll be giving voice to my story and looking at where I've been in my life. This episode starts with looking at growing up on a farm. 

This episode explores times that I use my voice well, times that I don't use it well, and trying to use it for loving purposes now and in the future. 

Today I talk about how we learn language and the purpose of our voice. 

Today begins what I'll call my first podcast series entitled "Voice Lessons." I shared how I'm working on recognizing the value of my voice in the world, and I hope it helps others recognize the value of their own in some small way.

It's fun to get presents, but being present to others is a fantastic gift we can give to others. 

Use your voice for Love in the world. 

For this episode, I share my understanding of what dignity is as well as recognizing the dignity of others and myself.

In the inaugural episode, I share how my life has been marked by crosses from girl to grown-up and connect my experiences and sacrifices of running cross country to sacrifices of Jesus on the cross. How might you sacrifice this week for the benefit of another? I'm sacrificing for the well-being of my family, among other intentions this week.