Not many of us would choose our struggles or the paths of hardship we have to walk out in this life.

So when you meet someone walking through hell, and they say, "I wouldn't trade or give up all I've gained walking this hard road." --I think it's 100% worth listening to what they say!

And that's our guest today. My dear friend Deb Schultz is with us, and her journey has been inspiring and challenging. She's walking through stage 4 ovarian cancer, and it's been a difficult and long road. And somehow, through it all, she's finding joy and purpose within her suffering. Her resilient spirit and attitude are contagious.

I hope her words of wisdom and encouragement bless you! And she's hilarious! Enjoy this conversation and getting to know Deb.

Glad you're here,

Dani

🌟To learn more about Dani & to join the newsletter list-> www.danisumner.com

✅ 🎉 Learn more about Dani's Coaching program--"The Feel Better Journey."

🙏🏽Interested in one-on-one coaching or to get in touch? Contact Us At—> hello@danisumner.com

🤳🏼 ALSO, let's connect on social media: Facebook, Instagram -> Facebook and Instagram

Keywords: Faith through hardship, Christian cancer survivor, Finding joy in suffering, Spiritual resilience, Overcoming depression as a Christian, God's presence in illness, Christian hope in adversity, Coping with loss biblically, Trusting God during trials, Christian perspective on chronic illness, Faith-based emotional healing, Spiritual strength in weakness, Christian encouragement for difficult times, God's purpose in pain, Biblical perseverance, Christian community support, Prayer during health challenges, Faith-driven positivity, Christian inspiration for tough times, God's faithfulness in suffering

159. One Of The Real Reasons You're Feeling Distant From God--Bridging the Gap: Reconnecting with God Despite Past Hurts

One of the Real Reasons You're Feeling Distant from God—Bridging the Gap: Reconnecting with God Despite Past Hurts

Feeling distant from God? You're not alone, friend. In this episode, we explore how our earthly relationships, especially with our parents, can impact our connection with our Heavenly Father. But don't worry—there's hope!

## Key Points: - The surprising link between past hurts and our relationship with God - A simple, one-word prayer to ground you in triggering moments - Learning to accept God's acceptance (it takes courage!)

## Quotable: "Faith is the courage to accept acceptance." - Paul Tillich

## Try This: When you're feeling triggered or distant, take a deep breath and simply say, "Father." Notice how it shifts your perspective. You may notice some resistance or distance from God by even saying "Father"--whatever comes up, don't judge yourself--just notice what comes up. That's the first step in getting to the deeper root of what may be causing some deeper issues in your life.

Remember, you're more loved than you can imagine and less broken than you feel. Keep trudging through your beautiful mess—God's right there with you.

Song: Check out CC Winans' "The Goodness of God" for an extra dose of encouragement! Scripture mentioned: Psalm 103

Enjoy.

Much love, Dani

🌟To learn more about Dani & to join the newsletter list-> www.danisumner.com

✅ 🎉 Learn more about Dani's Coaching program--"The Feel Better Journey."

🙏🏽Interested in one-on-one coaching or to get in touch? Contact Us At—> hello@danisumner.com

🤳🏼 ALSO, let's connect on social media: Facebook, Instagram -> Facebook and Instagram

Keywords: Reconnecting with God, Healing past hurts, Emotional triggers, Spiritual growth, Father wound, Self-regulation, Overcoming shame, Accepting God's acceptance, Faith and courage, Emotional healing, Spiritual resilience, Inner peace, Mindfulness in faith, Overcoming spiritual distance, Transforming pain into purpose, Work-life balance, High-achiever struggles, Spiritual self-care, Balancing success and spirituality, Emotional intelligence in faith, Christian Life Coach.

*To learn more about 17 Strong or get involved in this amazing ministry please visit: https://www.17strong.org/

Episode 158. Turning Grief into Purpose: The Heart Behind the non-profit 17 Strong with Guest Holly Teixeira

Hi friends!

I'm so excited to share today's episode with you for many reasons.

First and foremost, I know deep in my bones that hearing someone's story and how they've gotten through their darkest hours helps birth more courage and perseverance in us as we navigate our own struggles.

If you're in the middle of a tough season, I hope today's guest, Holly Teixeira, encourages you.

I've admired her from afar for a long time--our whole community watched them walk through the unimaginable (losing a child to cancer)

Holly's sharing the journey of her son Ryan's battle with cancer and the beautiful legacy he left behind.

She's also sharing the story behind the creation of 17 Strong, a nonprofit dedicated to providing "victory trips" for young adult cancer survivors.

Sometimes, when walking 'through it,' the days can be long, but remember your story matters.

You matter!

Holly reminds us that there's beauty to be found even in the darkest of times.

17 Strong was Ryan's idea that came about in a hospital--the story is incredible how it all came about, and now his family is living out for him.

Key Takeaways: • Grief and purpose can coexist, even in our darkest moments • The importance of taking life one day at a time when facing overwhelming challenges • How helping others can bring healing and meaning to our own pain • The power of choosing joy, even when we don't feel it • Finding strength in faith and community during times of suffering

No matter what you are walking through, I hope this episode reminds you that you are not alone in your struggles.

Quote to Remember: "I choose joy every day. I don't feel that joy, but I have to choose it." - Holly Teixeira

Please also check out 17 Strong and how you can get involved at 17strong.org

So grateful you're here. Be blessed.

Much love and grace to you, Dani

🌟To learn more about Dani & to join the newsletter list-> www.danisumner.com

✅ 🎉 Learn more about Dani's Coaching program--"The Feel Better Journey."

🙏🏽Interested in one-on-one coaching or to get in touch? Contact Us At—> hello@danisumner.com

🤳🏼 ALSO, let's connect on social media: Facebook, Instagram -> Facebook and Instagram