An interview with Lindsey gives us a glorious example of risk and determination to equip her church with the ability to hold stories, even trauma stories, well. Learn what to avoid and how to hold stories in relationship with skill and honor.
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“In a profound way, our intentionality is a key ingredient in determining whether we notice God everywhere, or only in church, or only in suffering, or nowhere. It all depends on how we choose to fashion our world.”
~ Elizabeth Dryer
Show Notes:
Lindsey was born in Virginia and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Education. She was a missionary to China and Vietnam, teaching English as a second language. Along the way, she was forced to deal with some difficult situations. With a heart for bringing dignity out of painful situations, Lindsey embarked upon a journey of bringing light into her own story, while having the opportunity to influence and love on a larger ‘audience’ by offering tangible, loving, supportive and timely nuggets of truth and learning.
Dawn and Lindsey discuss:
- Lindsey’s experience of sharing her heartfelt and painful story with her community group
- The lack of training, particularly within the church, to hold a story well
- The path Lindsey chose to be a part of the solution following the incident of her story not being held well; the outcomes that resulted from her additional steps of courage
- The practice of holding out two hands to receive something- the intentionality, value, honor and place of symbolism which is conveyed
- The possibility of learning to hold a story well, even if you are still in process with your own story
- “To love someone well means to hold their story well.” ~Lindsey Yopp
- Unhelpful responses to someone’s story sharing
- Helpful responses to someone’s story sharing
- The importance of naming someone’s dignity, covering their shame, as well as, naming and refuting lies
- Lindsey’s experience with attending a Spiritual Nurture Retreat
Lindsey quoted:
“In a profound way, our intentionality is a key ingredient in determining whether we notice God everywhere, or only in church, or only in suffering, or nowhere. It all depends on how we choose to fashion our world.”
~ Elizabeth Dryer
Lindsey’s Contact:
If you are interested in reaching out to Lindsey, please contact us here for her email address.