Zada Connaway's Blog (9)

Valentine's Day is over now, New Year's too. President's Day, to celebrate presidential birthdays has just passed, Now we have saint Patrick's Day and Easter to look forward to. And then we also have The Fourth of July (Independence Day), Labor Day, Memorial Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas. I may have forgotten a few, like the birthday of the Marine Corps, Jeremiah Johnson's birthday, Groundhog Day etc.. Don't forget your own birthday and that of loved ones! I think in a… Continue

With all the writing I have been doing on abuse of various sorts, and the terrible reports in the news, I had to take a little break. A short while ago I ordered and read Wooffer: stories you can read to your dog, by Betty Fasig. It was a great escape from the mundane troubles of the world. Here is my review of this marvelous little book: Wooffer, by Betty Fasig

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In this busy world we live in, it is often easy to completely overlook the people who surround us. It only takes a moment to smile, and what is the cost of holding a door for someone? You just might make someone's day a little brighter. Have you ever noticed how difficult it is to frown at someone who is smiling? For me, it is almost impossible. And usually, if I smile at someone who is frowning, they return my smile. Smiles seem to be contagious. I have been told that it takes only a f… Continue

It is very good to be aware of where our children are and what they are doing; but what about women and other vulnerable adults staying safe as well? As adults, we are the only ones who can tell ourselves what we can do to stay safe. Here are a couple of pointers: Don’t park in an area that will be dark and shielded from view, especially if you know it will be after nightfall when you go to retrieve your car. Use valet parking when it is available. Always be aware of your surroundings, and thi… Continue

If one wishes to be happy, they must remember that happiness is not having what you want, but rather, wanting what you have. It is also a choice that one makes. We can live in the misery with painful memories of the past. Or we can choose to let go of the pain and start fresh. The experiences we have had can become tools we use to have empathy for others. When we have been in the same painful spot as another individual, we can ease their burden by sharing our own trials. Sometimes our own expe… Continue

In Helen Wisocki and Curt Szajnecki’s blockbuster book, “Innocence Betrayed - A Dad's Story of Clergy Misconduct', they deftly illustrate what any family can suffer at the hands of a less than scrupulous spiritual figurehead. In order to assist those who are at risk, they have developed a workbook with tips and exercises for those who have been abused or suspect abuse from their clergy members. The cover states: “Protecting Children and Vulnerable Adults from Clergy Misconduct.” And that is exa… Continue

I just received this announcement, and wanted to share it here. This should be a great interview. Be sure to tune in: Hi Everyone, We wanted to let you know of our live phone interview online discussing our book, "Innocence Betrayed - A Dad's Story of Clergy Misconduct," tomorrow night, Dec. 27, at 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Central time. It is shown live on the Internet on www.kctu.com and people can call in with questions and comments. We also have some exciting news to announce. Please tune in on you… Continue

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When a person treats others with respect, it is natural to expect the same in return. When one is disrespected, they tend to avoid those who do it to them. Or they dish out some of what they have received. Either way, it is abuse; it can be in the written, physical or verbal form. I have received emails that contain what can only be described as ‘text speak’. If one is text messaging others, this is probably quite appropriate.

However, in written communication, this is not acceptab

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