Suicide is an answer to a problem. Unrelenting despair and pain consume us and our attempts to mitigate the effects seem fruitless. Without hope, our last hope is found in a turn to the final solution, an eternal escape from our tiring, soul crushing world. One aspect of suicide that…
The Illinois State Police has had a tough year. Like most law enforcement agencies, when an officer is killed in the line of duty the effect is both immediate and long-term. When these tragedies come in waves the impact can be overwhelming. As a result of these trials a group…
Recently I had the honor to share my experiences and the tools I have developed for working with veterans with the 5th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida’s Veterans Treatment Court and surrounding supporting agencies. What a blessing to spend a couple days with people devoted to helping our most at-risk…
I’m taking my dear wife on a date today. We are going to drive to a strange place and go exploring. No small feat when you have eight children, ages 4 months to 15! In spite of the obstacles to planning such an excursion, it is important to take time…
Yosemite National Park overwhelms you. Driving up toward the south entrance on California Highway 41, I thought I would be ready for the experience. I had seen all the Ansel Adams pictures and rock climbing movies. Heck, my screen saver is an iconic shot of half dome! I thought I…
I recently spoke in Oklahoma City to a variety of law enforcement and first responders from around Oklahoma. Putnam City Baptist Church was kind enough to host the event and we took advantage of their hospitality by packing the sanctuary. I wish more churches followed their example and got hands-on…
