I notice a natural dip every year when I come back from Russia. Actually, I have to give props to my brother for pointing it out to me. I’m not sure why it happens but it does. It will probably happen next year as well. The reality is that it has been happening for years. We all have dips. We all hit seasons like this. Is it jet-lag? Is it spiritual warfare? Is it the stress of reengaging with everyday life? Is it saying goodbye to our friends in Russia who steal your heart? Maybe it is missing the connection God forges with our team. Not sure…maybe it is a combination of all the above. All I know is that finding your stride when you get back is problematic.

The past two years I have had the privilege of taking my daughters to Russia with me. They love it. They love the people there. They experienced the dip this year as well. Tonight Michelle and I had a chance to talk to them about what they are experiencing. I love those kind of talks. I think they define what family is all about. Hearing our girls hearts…explaining ours…gaining perspective…connecting on a deep level. Michelle is an amazing Mom. It is her calling. She brings an amazing amount of discernment to the table. It was her idea to finish our talk with prayer…what a cool thing to be able to cover your girls in prayer.

So where and when does your “dip” hit you? Do you see it coming? Do you have friends that have permission to speak into your life? It is so much easier to see stuff in someone else’s life isn’t it? Seeing it and knowing you are in the midst of it is half the battle.