Grace Among Us

Have you ever found yourself tensing up as the sound of a child's wail pierces through the cabin of an airplane? Whether you fly or not, you'll relate to the experiences of my co-host Ebony C. Gilbert (and myself) when trapped in a flying metal tube with restless little ones. Come join us to unpack how Grace saves us when life is lifey and people are being a bother.We'll talk about how any situation can be shifted as well as two important questions:"Where am I focusing?""What can I do with what I've been given in this moment?"Come laugh and lighten up and we'd love to hear about your version of "Airplane Grace"Ref: Lamentations 3:21-25

Grace often seems like a whispered secret, something that others possess but somehow eludes us in our moments of turmoil. Yet, what if I told you that grace could be your steadfast companion, an ever-present strength amidst life's twists and turns? Discover the transformative power of grace with my dear friend Ebony Gilbert, as we share our heartfelt conversation on its omnipresence in our lives. This episode is a journey into understanding how honesty, not perfection, invites grace into our daily experiences, from the holiday hustle to the quiet moments of reflection.Ebony and I open up about the strength in vulnerability and the common misbelief that grace is a sign of weakness. We examine the paradox of needing grace when we seem to have everything under control and the profound impact of admitting our struggles. Like a dance with life itself, we discuss how to embrace change, support each other, and find resilience in flexibility and interconnectedness. Join us for an episode that promises to be a balm for the soul, offering insights on accessing grace at all times—yes, even when you're in boss mode!

What is Heaven's Net. Carri and Ebony answer this question, as well as, what it's like to operate from it. Have you ever felt like there's an invisible safety net guiding your life's journey? Come join us here to seek more about the gift of Heaven's Net.We'll dive into the idea of 'no failure' and the divine love and support that is always here for you. You can operate from this place. If you're not familiar with this idea, keep listening. We're offering a perspective on how the invisible supports in our lives impact our choices. Rest, Relax, Believe, Receive - We promise you'll walk away from this conversation with a shifted perspective on the subtleties of grace and the tender balance between being caught and courageously moving through the world.

"I only see God's work (Grace) in my rear view mirror". Have you ever found yourself looking back at a chapter of life, only to discover the grace you couldn't see while you were in the midst of it? Carri and Ebony sit down to weave through the concept of 'grace in review,' exploring how the passage of time can offer us a clearer, more enriched perspective on the events that shape our lives. As we close one year and step into another, this is a beautiful practice to be buoyed up by what Grace is doing in your life...each day.Joining us from Nashville, Tennessee, Ebony gives a great analogy comparing life's journey to attending a concert, where the premium front-row seats might not always offer the best view. There are direct disadvantages in fact. There is a lot of power of stepping back—both literally and figuratively—to gain a vantage point that transforms our understanding of life's symphony.  As we embark on this heart-to-heart, Carrie and Ebony invite you to revisit your own life's stages, encouraging a recognition of the grace that envelops us, often waiting patiently to be acknowledged from a higher view.The rear view mirror is what creates our testimony.

Has the deliberate pursuit of grace ever become an effortless part of your daily existence? Join Ebony Gilbert and myself, Carri Richard, as we reflect on a year's worth of soul-enriching experiences that have seen us embrace grace in ways we never thought possible. In our heartfelt conversation, we celebrate the personal growth that comes from walking through life's hurdles with an attitude of grace. Together, we examine how these challenges have reshaped our perceptions, leading us to a state of inner peace and diminished judgment - a testimony to the power of grace in action.Our dialogue extends beyond personal triumphs, venturing into the true meaning of success. Here, we ponder the scriptural teachings on contentment, taking inspiration from the apostle Paul's wisdom (Philippians 4) in finding satisfaction in the here and now. Ebony and I also delve into the profound impact of sharing grace with others, and how the wisdom gleaned from life's twists and turns can be applied for a deeper, more enriching life experience. By the end of our exchange, you'll feel a sense of upliftment and inspiration, possibly finding yourself eager to join us in spreading the transformative gift of grace in the everyday moments that define our human journey.

Are you ready to let grace reveal its transformative power within your life? My co-host Ebony Gilbert and I, Carri Richard, promise to unveil this power, teaching you how to cultivate and harness this beautiful presence in even the most mundane moments. We'll guide you to find tranquility amidst the seasonal chaos, as we discuss Jesus's teachings on the unforced rhythms of grace (Matthew 11:28-30) . We'll highlight how stress not only strains our emotional well-being but also has physical implications, emphasizing how Grace serves as a soothing balm for both.Have you ever felt like an unstoppable freight train, capable of bearing heavy burdens, only to be derailed by the smallest pebble? Ebony and I share a compelling analogy, demonstrating how seemingly trivial challenges can bring our lives to a grinding halt. But fear not, because we will also discuss how grace can help us overcome these hurdles and get back on track. We'll explore the power of seeking help, leaning on support and placing unwavering trust in God's grace in challenging times. Let us guide you in viewing life's obstacles as mere pebbles on your track and inspire you to keep moving forward with grace's unforced rhythm. Trust us; this conversation will leave you feeling uplifted and ready to face life with renewed vigor and grace.

Today we talk all about Prioritizing your Purpose and how Grace plays a big part in the carrying out of your purpose.  In today's culture often what is left out on the purpose journey is Grace's Provision. Purpose is the assignment and there is help along the way. This journey isn't a smooth ride, but will pave the way to personal growth, joy, and impact. We'll dissect the prevailing culture of instant gratification, and emphasize on the need for patience and persistence, even when it involves discomfort. Remember, true purpose might not always feel comfortable, but it is a calling that demands your commitment and resilience. So, buckle up, and let's learn to embrace discomfort in our pursuit of a purposeful life!In the next part of our discourse, we'll probe deeper into the various facets of purpose - provision, protection, prevention, and most importantly, persistence. Through personal anecdotes, we'll illustrate how staying true to our purpose often requires counterintuitive choices and prioritizing it above our comfort. We'll also delve into our motives, encouraging you to identify what drives you and not let fear or negativity be the compass.

Have you ever felt like life is sending you unexpected gifts and secret messages? We sure have! We're here, Carri Richard and Ebony Gilbert, to unpack a beautiful example where a seven-year-old video resurfaced with an incredibly timely message. This is a stunning illustration of the timelessness of grace. Join us as we talk about the power of Grace to perfect anything. In our quest for understanding grace, we've discovered its incredible capacity to heal and transform lives. Much like time, grace can be immediate or stretch across an expanse, experienced in a fleeting moment or over an extended period. We dive into the power of perception and how our "grace glasses" can shape the meaning we assign to our experiences. Our ambition is to inspire you to identify and share the grace in your own life. So, buckle up and let's explore another view of grace together!

Sometimes life just kicks us in the pants. And when it's not going as planned, these waves of uncertainty can been overwhelming.  Ebony and I have a frank chat about the power of Grace in these times, in all times, and how to access peace within it. Join us as we chart our journey through the stormy seas of strife, holding onto the lifebuoy of grace and peace we discover in the teachings of Philippians 4. As we reflect on our own experiences with conflict, hurt, disappointment, and confusion, we share our insights on maintaining serenity even when the storm rages on. We're taught to lean into a peace that surpasses understanding, , and that's easy to quote and we delve into how to live in it when you're conflicted and confused and upset. Ever wondered - How do you search for it? How do you identify it? How do you fall into it? When you get a little bit of it, how do you keep it? And is the presence of peace the absence of all the other stuff, or can they coexist?We discuss the transformative power of prayer, not to change our circumstances, but to find peace within them. Discover how recognizing God's grace in our life can be an anchor during trying times. So, hoist your sails and embark on this voyage with us, exploring the steps to maintaining peace no matter the storm.Become your own witness - you already have evidence. Don't look for the Everest, find the extraordinary in the ordinary.Ask for it.Ask for it with gratitude.Be prepared to accept the blessing you can't understand.Want to know more, listen in!

Grace has a way of turning things on its head - like pressure. Ever wondered how the pressure in our lives can turn into an opportunity, a privilege perhaps? And how it can not only challenge us but also strengthen us, allowing us to bring our best to the table? You're about to find out. In a heart-to-heart conversation with my dear friend, Ebony Gilbert, we unwrap the flow of grace in the pressures of everyday life. We navigate through the intricacies of how pressure can be a motivator, a teacher of lessons, and a reminder of our reliance on grace. Come explore with us, and learn how to view pressure as a privilege that refines us.As we journey deeper, Ebony and I unfold the idea of privilege in pressure and trials. Pressure  tests our resilience, narrows our focus on the present moment, and this is where love can always triumph. We share our experiences in the hopes it can guide you to transform your own experiences and find the courage to make the most of each moment. Engage with us in this invigorating discussion and open yourself up to the possibility that pressure, with all its challenges, can truly be a privilege, a testament to your strength and a stepping stone towards a better outcome.Reference Queen's Under Pressure -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a01QQZyl-_I

Ever feel like you're weathering the storm all alone? Imagine discovering the beacon of grace amidst all the chaos. Join us, your hosts Carri Richard and Ebony Gilbert, as we embark on an unvarnished conversation on finding grace, even amidst tempestuous life storms (i.e.. when life gets "lifey"). We delve into some personal stories, exploring how we navigate the highs and lows, and the unexpected places where grace shows up. As the hurricane in Florida swirls, we shed light on the idea that unseen, yet powerful forces are constantly at work in our lives.Navigating life's uncertainties can be daunting. And what if we told you that there's a small, inner voice that can guide you when the "logical compass" goes haywire? In the second half of our candid discussion, we delve into finding faith and resilience during these challenging times. Drawing from our experiences, we share insights on how to remain rooted in the present and seek inner guidance. We all have stuff, difficulties and challenges, and we can tread these uncertain paths together, remembering the comforting reality that God's grace is ever-present, serving as an unwavering companion through our journey. Tune in, prepare to be inspired, and remember: Grace is waiting to be found in every corner of your life.

What if grace isn't about the task at hand but managing the emotions that surround it? Join me and my co-host, Ebony Gilbert, as we navigate the intricate dance of finding grace amidst frustration. Ebony illustrates the power of zooming out, with a personal anecdote about a mundane task of pulling weeds in her backyard. God uses everything. As we look at shifting our perspective, even in our darkest moments, we discover a gentle undercurrent of growth and progress that embraces us.Can you recall a time when you felt burdened by problems, yet, a slight shift in perspective brought an unexpected shower of blessings? This is what Ebony experienced and she shares her wisdom about embracing the seasons of life and celebrating grace within the chaos. In our tendency to lean in, grasp, get stuck, figure, and force there is always a choice to pause. Step back. Have faith in the bigger picutre and let go enough to get a new view. We dive deep into the concept of gratitude, and how, at times, our ego becomes the barrier in seeking help from others. The conversation is an eye-opener about the lives we are living today - lives that seemed unthinkable a decade ago. So, come along on this journey of self-discovery, you might just find some grace in your own life, waiting to be acknowledged and shared.

Are you ready to redefine your understanding of service? In a riveting conversation with Carri Richard and Ebony Gilbert, we challenge the traditional narrative surrounding service and its impact. We delve into the depth of serving others, affirming that service doesn't necessarily require grand gestures. Instead, the simple act of being present, offering love, and extending grace— even to those who may not seem deserving in the eyes of society or ourselves—can lead to profound effects.Struggling with the decision to serve when you're not in the mood? We've been there too. Service does not  require us to go out of our way, graceful service requires us to get out of the way. This type of service can is as straightforward as being silent, present, and following through with the opportunities before us, rather than seeking validation from the feelings they evoke. Aligning your work with your spiritual gifts, we explore how service can foster connection, buoys us up rather than drains, and can encourage reciprocal interactions. If you've ever felt overwhelmed or unappreciated in your service, take a listen. Join us in this enlightening discussion as we harness the power of grace in service.

Ever wondered about the concept of grace and how it could alter your perception of your "enemies"? This transformative conversation, hosted by Carri Richard and Ebony Gilbert, audaciously tackles this complicated subject, opening up a new dimension on the power of tolerance, understanding, and love. We engage in a hard-hitting discussion, challenging the traditional views of grace and its applicability in our relationships, particularly those that are strained and difficult.We navigate the rough terrains of challenging relationships, shedding light on the aspect of grace in these contexts and how it can potentially lead us back to love and understanding. Carri and Ebony share their insight on how prayer can act as a catalyst, empowering us to forgive and see the humanity in those we believe have wronged us. Our exploration doesn't end there; we also discuss self-kindness and the ability to recognize opportunities to extend grace. This is a chance to redefine your understanding of grace and integrate this profound concept more deeply into your life. Tune in for an enlightening journey that may just change your perspective on grace forever.James Webb Telescope -> https://www.jwst.nasa.gov/

Come join us on an incredibly personal journey with our dear friends, Amy and Clint Ledford. Their story of the path to parenthood is a rollercoaster of emotions, challenges, and heartache, isolation, faith, and grace - which they've bravely chosen to share with us. Full of fear and envy, AND hope and spiritual support, they demonstrate that strength and grace can emerge from the most testing circumstances. They highlight the significance of unity and companionship at such times and how these aspects can provide solace and comfort.The Ledfords paint an intimate, striking picture of infertility and the IVF process. It is a journey marked by determination and resilience despite a slim one to two percent chance of conceiving naturally. This isn't just a story of biology and medical procedures -  it's a journey through the financial implications and the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies them. Yet, they remind us that each step, each moment, offers an opportunity for grace, and a chance to hold onto hope. It's a poignant reminder that miracles do happen when hope meets adversity.Their journey doesn't stop at conceiving. Clint and Amy remind us of the importance of seeking support and acknowledging the grace life sends our way, demonstrating that love, strength, and the power of grace can be found even in the most challenging of journeys. Their story is a testament to all of this. Their willingness to share their journey offers comfort and inspiration to anyone facing similar challenges, and we're sincerely grateful for their openness and courage. We invite you to join us on this journey with them, filled with hope, resilience, and above all, grace.

What does graceful justice look like? Ready to challenge the preconceived notions of you may have about justice? Brace yourselves for a transformative conversation with Lou Freyer, a retired psychologist and school counselor, currently associated with the Virginia Center for Restorative Justice. Together, we debunk traditional concepts of justice and explore the powerful potential of restorative justice. This beautiful, graceful approach, centered around responsibility, repair, and reconnection, aims not to punish the offender but to rebuild the community and reintegrate those who have faltered.More than just a theory, we bring restorative justice to life through real case studies. Join us as we dissect everything from felony assault cases to tragic hazing incidents, all handled through the lens of restorative justice. Not only do we bust the myth of restorative justice being the 'easy way out,' we'll discuss how it promotes healing and growth for both the individual and the community. Lou's experience lends us a clear vision of restorative justice in action, unraveling its transformative power and the profound impact it leaves behind. We also examine how restorative practices can create harmonious dynamics in all environments, including homes to schools. Learn to invite the tools of restorative justice into your own life, such as active listening and asking for specific change requests, with Lou guiding us through. Understand how you can become a part of this empathetic approach to justice and be the change in your community. So, are you ready to embrace a more compassionate justice system that focuses on grace over punishment? Tune in for an enlightening conversation that can forever shift your perspective on crime, punishment, and redemption.Documentary Adam Oaks Story - https://youtu.be/iFTWUnfEy6wLinks about Restorative Justice:IIRP.eduZehr-institute.orgVCRJ.organd the "Center for Justice & Peacebuilding" at emu.edu

Ever feel like you're trapped in an opinion boxing match, constantly grading others and yourself, with grace being the ultimate knockout punch you never quite land? That's exactly what we, Carri Richard and Ebony Gilbert, dissect in this episode, as we share personal stories and insights about the self-constructed barriers that hinder us from experiencing the transformative power of grace. We examine the minefield of superiority and inferiority, and how they disconnect us from grace, especially when we need it the most.As we traverse the landscape of grace, we delve into the surprising intersection of grace and accountability. We pull back the layers on how our reactions, oftentimes steeped in entitlement, become invisible walls against grace. The crux of the discussion lies in our exploration of liberating ourselves from the scoreboards we keep in our minds, and embracing the grace-filled approach to life. Plus, we talk about setting boundaries while staying present and knowing when it's time to move on. Get ready for a riveting conversation that will not just enlighten you about grace, but will also inspire you to embrace it in your life and extend it to others.

When we face life's trials and challenges, how can we find beauty in our brokenness? Curtis Kotake, an artist in the tradition of Kintsugi, joins us on Grace Among Us to share his insight and experience in embracing our scars and learning from them. With this unique craft, Curtis has not only found therapeutic benefits for himself, but also brought joy to others and gained recognition through the impact these bowls have made on many as they "ripple out". Diving into the world of Kintsugi, Curtis takes broken pieces and gracefully reassembles them into beautiful bowls, symbolizing our journey of growth and healing from life's struggles. We discuss the impact of COVID on his work and how he aspires to leave a lasting legacy through his art. Join us for this heartfelt conversation that will inspire you to discover the beauty in your own scars and experience the power of transformation.If you'd like a bowl of your own...or one for a gift, please contact Curtis Kotake at 510-414-0800

What if there was a way to navigate through life's challenges with grace and conviction? Join us as we explore the concept of alignment and purpose, and how tapping into grace can guide us through even the toughest of challenges. Using the analogy of a rip current, we reveal how trusting the flow of life can lead to incredible transformations.Ebony and Carri dive deeper into the importance of conviction in remaining aligned to our purpose, and the grace that accompanies it. In moments of frustration, fatigue, and doubt, learn how to press forward with a convicted heart. Discover how to overcome resistance and tap into your inner knowing to remind you of your purpose and authority to move forward. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about the power of grace in our daily lives!

In today’s episode of Grace Among Us, Carri and Ebony explore the art of Kintsugi and it’s embodiment of Grace. This traditional japanese art of restoration holds many pointers to grace, life, and living gracefully and a beautiful reminder to embrace imperfection. Join us on the journey.Here’s a glance at the episodeEmbracing our imperfections holds great rewards and we’ll delve into what that means.It's part of life to be broken at some points and we are put back together again – with some gold leaf and some grace. These intentional breakages are can be opportunities to grow closer to something bigger than ourselves and connect to others.. And when in the midst, it's not easy to see it or say it.We don’t know the end product. It is in grace, in faith to know that the artist, the creator, the potter has me being molded and made and shifted and broken because they know the end. They know the beautiful product and in the end, is more beautiful than imagined or expected. It’s not easy in the process - reach out to those who can remind you they are imperfect too.You are the art, the masterpiece - trust the process.Thank you so much for joining us today. We hope you're leaving with another pointer to Grace, and a new perspective that will light it up in your own life.  If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know at community@grace-among-us.com; we would love to hear your questions, suggestions, and/or comments. Don’t forget to share it with a friend. Also, please be sure to subscribe so you're notified when a new episode is posted. Until next time, be well, be blessed, be bold, and be kind to yourself.#graceimperfection, #kintsugi, #artofkintsugi, #healinggrace, #embraceimperfection, #gracepatience,  #graceauthenticity #weareallconnected