Starting conversation with “I” statements ensure that you will not sound accusatory and lets your feelings come through. For example: -I am worried… -I feel… -I am concerned… -I have noticed…

Engage in a conversation, taking turns, instead of talking at others. Use questions: -What things concern you? -What do you want to do about… -What do you want to do when…

Conveying love and concern is important. Sometimes an outside person can have more influence than those in immediate family. Be patient. If first attempt doesn’t go well, keep your sense of humor and try again at a later time.

Linda LaPointe, MRA is an ElderLife Matters Coach who was a long term care administrator. She is author of several products to help families, including educational board game, In My Shoes: An Aging Family. See them and get free articles and information at www.SOSpueblo.com

from us.” When we feel that our petitions have been answered,

then date journal as such. Compare how long some prayers

take and how short some prayers take to be answered.

In this new prayer life, I’ve learned that God does always Prayer page/3

answer. He may not answer way we have prayed or as soon as

we want, but He always answers. Sometimes, this process of

waiting and God showing His sovereignty, brings us blessings.

Blessings, because we are one that can be changed. The

situation we are praying for may not change, but we do, and that

is blessing. For to be drawn closer to our Savior, and to

grow into His image, (which a powerful prayer life can do) is

His heart’s desire.

In a study by Beth Moore, I’ve also learned that He wants

us to ask Him for blessings to be bestowed upon us. If we do

not ask Him, we do not receive. “Jesus desires us to be happy

and full of joy,” Beth harps on this over and over.

What a joy to have completed this study for it came on

rim of workshop I attended. In John 14:12-16, it offers

additional insight into success of our prayer life. This

verse tells us we are to pray believing we will receive so that

God will be glorified. And then when we receive what we have

been praying for, we are to give Jesus all glory. We are

not to brag and exalt ourselves. I believe this is real

lesson on prayer. We give Jesus all glory, and we thank

Him, on our knees, that He is a God that we are allowed to serve

and trust. We praise His name because He takes care of those

who trust in Him, and those who bow their heads and pray to Him.

I am a native New Mexican recently retired, but my writing days are young.

I have three honorable mentions at Bylines Magazine for two short stories and a poem. I also was awarded a SPECIAL HONORABLE MENTION for a poem from the same magazine. I feel like the honorable mention kid since I own one at Hodgepodge as well.

Retirement allows me time to hone my craft of which I so love to do and spend time with my family.