Book Review: "Good Girls Don't Have to Dress Bad" Posted: May 21, 2010 by Hilary Barnett I must admit that when I received this manuscript in the mail and read the title, I was more than slightly mortified. I have never considered myself a "fashionista," and my general feeling about shopping and clothes is usually one of keen disinterest. Don't get me wrong—I know how to dress myself. But the thought of getting together with my "BFF's" to go on a shopping spree sends me running for the hills. As a Christian woman, I have more important and earth-shattering things to worry about—like evangelizing the lost, serving the poor, and reading enough theological books to keep my mind full of new and revolutionary ideas. So a book on Christian fashion, seriously? Isn't that the realm of the utterly worldly? Not to mention, Christian modesty, especially in women, is quite the touchy subject—I'm pretty sure wars have been waged over this. But I forged ahead.  Read the full article…

What Facebook Says About Friendship Posted: Feb 04, 2010 by Ryan Akers The screen popped up with a message waiting for me to read. It was some kid I never really ever talked to. Evidently he had slipped through the cracks the last time I cleaned out my friend list. I just ignored the conversation. He kept talking, even after I didn't reply. Eventually, I took my status to offline, completely evading the situation. I would venture to say many people can relate to such a story. The window pops up, or you get a message, or a comment, and wonder, "Why is that person talking to me? We're not even that close!" You guessed it. I'm talking about Facebook.  Read the full article…

Christmas Time Is Here . . . Almost Posted: Dec 09, 2009 by Phill Lytle I am very willing this time of the year to be vocal about God, spirituality, and all the rest. It's the meaning of the season, after all. Most people lower their defenses this time of year and that makes it much easier for me to be honest and truly express what God is doing for me, to me, and with me. I don't have to hide behind my well designed façade; I can let it all hang out in a manner of speaking. For most of the year I am a very reserved fellow, but you get me close to Christmas and I sort of lose my mind. Food tastes better. The air is purer. Life is richer. There is a feeling of rebirth or starting over that is intoxicating and it is impossible for me to ignore it or hide it. I have a light and it must and shall shine!   Read the full article…