by GIFT Coach | Jan 7, 2016 | Blogs by Gayle Swift, Faith and Values, General Discussion, Strengthening Family Relationships
As we zip into this new year, how can we keep the lessons learned while leaving behind the weight of anger and regret? By choosing forgiveness–not amnesia– we can avoid the potholes inherent in “expectation” and instead choose acceptance. This...
by GIFT Coach | Oct 21, 2015 | community, faith, paradigm shift
Part 3 of a 4 Part series examining the promise of faith communities as sources of healing and connection and GIFT coaches’, Sally Ankerfelt and Susan David’s recent presentation at the 2015 ATTACh Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota. If faith communities are sources...
by GIFT Coach | Aug 27, 2014 | Blogs by Gayle Swift, Blogs by Joann DiStefano, Difficult Discussions, Faith and Values, General Discussion, Post Adoption Challenges & Behaviors, Strengthening Family Relationships
How many times have you said, “Through adoption I’ve learned to love unconditionally”? Have you ever doubted that belief? Has it ever been rocked to the core by challenging circumstances or by the vehement disapproval of your child by a neighbor, teacher or family...
by GIFT Coach | May 4, 2014 | Blogs by Gayle Swift, Blogs by Joann DiStefano, General Discussion
In The Scarlet Letter, Nathaniel Hawthorne’s classic tale of adultery and unwed motherhood, Hester Prynne was required to wear a scarlet “A” on her clothing as punishment for her sin. This publicly branded her and allowed the community to judge and ostracize her (and...
by GIFT Coach | Apr 23, 2014 | Blogs by Gayle Swift, Blogs by Joann DiStefano, General Discussion
Adoption related ideas pop up in the most unexpected places. While discussing some excellent novels—none of which had adoption themes— GIFT coaches came across quotes that placed them in an adoption frame of mind. Consider these lines from Allegiant by Veronica Roth:...