In 'Let Your Life Speak', Parker J. Palmer reflects on the journey of finding one's true vocation through a deeply personal and compassionate lens. The book encourages readers to listen to their inner selves rather than external expectations, and to embrace their true identities and integrity. Palmer shares his own experiences, including struggles with depression and unconventional career paths, to illustrate the importance of authenticity and self-awareness in discovering one's calling. The book emphasizes that vocation is not a goal to be achieved but a gift to be received, and that it involves aligning one's life with one's natural gifts and interests.
In *Telling Secrets*, Frederick Buechner delves into his personal life, reflecting on the effects of his father's suicide in 1936 and his family's subsequent grief. The book also touches on his experiences as a parent, particularly his daughter's battle with anorexia. Buechner emphasizes the significance of sharing secrets as a way to deepen human connections and to understand oneself and others more profoundly. He explores themes of faith, human freedom, and the ordinary yet extraordinary nature of life, all while maintaining a quietly humorous and reflective voice[1][4][5].
God’s preferred method of communication is through a still, small voice.
– Dallas Willard
Dear Friends,
Who have I become, and who am I becoming?
For over two decades, I’ve relentlessly asked these questions and found myself lovingly interrogated by Jesus and His Kingdom at every turn of my journey.
Now, as I transition from one season to the next, I sense another pair of soul-searching questions rising from the depths:
Who is God, really?
Who will I allow Him to become in the decades ahead?
Parker Palmer beautifully wrote, “Before I can tell my life what I want to do with it, I must first listen to my life telling me who I am.” God comes to us brilliantly disguised in the ordinary moments of our everyday lives.
Let us look back and see afresh the God who has prevailed. Let us look forward with confidence and hope, trusting in the God who will continue to prevail.
This episode offers a brief, real-time reflection for the soul. My hope is that it will beckon you deeper still. As you engage with this Examen, may you receive a renewed and personal invitation to explore the updated version of "A Soul’s Review," BGS Podcast Episode 151. While this exercise can be done individually, many allies have found it to be an especially transformational experience when shared as a couple or small group during a half-day or full-day retreat. Pray about it. You and your community are worth the time it takes to transition well from one season to the next.
So, as a prologue, come along. Let us slow down and dare to tune in to the still, small voice of God.
For the Kingdom,
Morgan & Cherie
Become Good Soil 
