So what does an author do with her time when she’s not working on a book?
My days in January have been spent healing from my foot surgery and traveling to Wisconsin for a visit to my childhood home …
reading words of wisdom from Bob Goff to my 88-year-old Dad …
and checking in on Esther, a revered Centurion in our little village.
Creating and leading Self-love Club growth sessions for my counseling colleagues in two neighboring districts …
while reconnecting with an incredible group of young-adult leaders, (former) students of mine at FHS.
So what am I learning with all of these visits and connections?
That people are wired to be loved and belong.
Somewhere. Anywhere.
To someone. Anyone.
That we cannot give away what we don’t have, and that self-love isn’t braggadocious or loud, but that, instead, it’s quiet, soft, gentle. It’s talking to yourself with that same compassion that you use as you comfort a friend in need.
And that participants of all ages, appreciate that tender reminder to speak grace, kindness, and love into their own souls so that it comes out wholeheartedly toward others.
I’m learning that broken can be beautiful, because the cracks invite the light in.
And that sometimes, we might need to break, so we can grow back stronger and better than ever.
Just like the bunion bone that I had realigned.
Happy 2026, dear reader; thank you for blessing me on this journey through life’s lessons.
Barbara Gruener 