Resource Roundup: May 2024
Books, shows and a flare for mystery I guess?
Hello hello! Welcome to the first edition of the Resource Roundup!
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Resource Roundup: May 2024 Edition
I have a love/hate relationship with listicles.
On one hand, I'm a sucker for these and will click every time. On the other hand, I often find myself overwhelmed by the information or frustrated by the promise of a "quick fix," especially when it comes to something as nuanced as growing in relationships or healing.
That being said, I love tangible tools. Give me something practical for growth, and I'll immediately implement it into my daily rhythms to see if it helps. That is what I hope the Resource Roundup to be: a trusted list of tangible tools for deeper connection, without information overload.
To kick things off, we have five resources that I have found to be helpful when it comes to growing in deeper relationship with God, myself and those around me. Also included are five things I've been particularly loving this month. For this inaugural edition, I've made it available to everyone to give you a preview of what’s to come.
So saddle up and let’s dive in.
May’s Highlights: Five Resources for Deeper Connection
The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence
An oldie but a goodie, this book genuinely changed my life a few years back. It found me at the perfect time, when I was asking similar questions like, "what is the tangible presence of God?" and, "how do you grow in a deeper relationship with Him?" It's concise, direct, and cuts right to the heart. 10/10 would recommend.
Jenna Riemersma’s IFS meditation: Move Towards Your Inner Critic
I'm a big fan of Internal Family Systems therapy (IFS), and Jenna offers practical ways to engage with it. This exercise helps listeners connect with their inner critic and move forward with greater compassion. She has a library of free resources, including more meditations like this, that help listeners communicate with the different parts of themselves.
The Garden Within by Dr. Anita Phillips
The first time I heard Dr. Anita Phillips was on a podcast and I quickly found myself asking, "Who is this woman?" before promptly ordering her book. She’s genuine, kind and knows her ish. The book provides insightful language on how being honest with our emotions can lead to greater freedom, connection and resilience.
This podcast on Discernment by Tyler Staton of Bridgetown Church
Bridgetown and I go way back, and if you spend any time with me, you'll likely hear me referencing something from this church. Tyler's tone, tact, and storytelling are on point, and this sermon gives practical advice for the many ways we can hear from God.
Non-violent Communication: A Language of Life: Life Changing Tools for Healthy Relationships by Marshall B. Rosenburg
As an Enneagram 9, confrontation isn't my strong suit. Don’t get me wrong, eventually I will speak up for myself, but it often comes out of lingering bitterness. Thankfully, there are books like this that offer practical wisdom for addressing issues in the moment without escalating tension. It's a must-read for everyone.
May’s Highlights: 5 Things I’m Loving Right Now
Having never watched Top Gear (much to the chagrin of my brothers), I approached this with low expectations. To my surprise, it’s been delightful. If you love British humor or have ever dreamed about owning your own farm, this is the show for you. To quote Jeremy, “life’s shit but I’m loving it.”
Seriously, why has this not been getting more attention? If you like Glass Onion or Knives Out, you will love this. The acting is great, it’s beautifully shot and you’ll genuinely enjoy the ride - even if some of your favorite characters die in the end.
Dame A Cristo: A Spanish Upperoom Album
Something about worshipping in your non-native language will really do it to ya. This album hits. See for yourself.
Everyone In My family Has Killed Someone: A Murder Mystery Novel by Benjamin Stevenson
As I'm writing this, I realize I seem to be on a mystery kick this month (not quite sure what that's about) but this book is great. It's funny, fast-paced, and it cleverly tackles all the conventional tropes of a cozy mystery in a self-aware yet entertaining way.
I’ve been on a tea kick the last few months and the best of which I’ve had is this one. My brother actually brought it back from London for me as a Christmas present but you can order it online and have it shipped. It’s reasonably priced and has character.
Prompt for Further Processing:
Spend some time looking back over this last month, where did you find small moments of delight? What was your favorite thing you read? Watched? Smelled? Listened to? Ate? Drank? Wore? Write a few of them down.
Make a list based on your five senses: The best thing I (saw, heard, smelled, tasted, felt) this last month were…
Share your list with a friend, colleague, partner or acquaintance. Ask them this same question. What was the best thing they…?
Let me know as well! Feel free to comment below or message me with your “Five Senses” list. Also send me any fun recommendations! What has been helpful for you?
Housekeeping
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