Derek Rabelo’s father prayed that his son would be a professional surfer. But Derek was born blind in 1992, and his father’s dream seemed impossible. Seventeen years later, however, Derek decided that not only did he want to surf — he wanted to surf the legendary waves on the North Shore of Oahu. Derek’s courage… Continue reading Blind Surfer Derek Rabelo Conquers Waves Fearlessly
Category: Truth Bomb
Falling Plates: when death is just a memory
by Maria Krump, guest writer What if it is true? What if, all of a sudden, you find yourself…THERE. On eternity’s shore. But your feet don’t really know where “there” is, do they? They want to. And they keep aching for firm ground, for something, anything to land on, to find that footing and balance… Continue reading Falling Plates: when death is just a memory
I Am Today’s Christian Woman: Let’s Talk About Sex
In August 2012, I accepted a full-time job as Today’s Christian Woman’s online editor. It’s been just over a year since that fateful day, and ever since, I’ve been intentional about learning exactly what it means to live life as a Christian woman. Thanks to the amazing articles, interviews, and reporting I’ve been able to… Continue reading I Am Today’s Christian Woman: Let’s Talk About Sex
From Wheaton College to TIME Magazine: Elizabeth Dias’ Advice to Aspiring Journalists
“All journalists are insecure overachievers-learn how to make mistakes and own them. Your mistakes don’t define you.” This was one of many memorable phrases shared by TIME Magazine reporter Elizabeth Dias at Wheaton College’s Homecoming weekend 2013. The weekend marked her fifth year college reunion, and she came to campus as a guest of the… Continue reading From Wheaton College to TIME Magazine: Elizabeth Dias’ Advice to Aspiring Journalists
Help End Sex Trafficking in Chicago: Run the TraffickFree 5K
As a journalist, I come across controversial topics on a regular basis–but none have captivated me like human trafficking has. I’m passionate about raising awareness about the criminal activity that claims an estimated 300,000 minors each year within the United States (and countless more in countries around the world, including Honduras). As much as I… Continue reading Help End Sex Trafficking in Chicago: Run the TraffickFree 5K
Urban Violence Really Sucks
I’ve lived in the greater Chicago area since 2007. Since then, Chi-town has become the most violent city in the United States. Even though the Chicago homicide rate has decreased 34 percent this year compared to 2012, people are still dying every day. 54 people were shot dead in Chicago during the Zimmerman trial in… Continue reading Urban Violence Really Sucks
How Should Christians Respond to SCOTUS’ DOMA ruling?
It’s been a big week for the Supreme Court, SCOTUS, DOMA, Prop 8, and churches nationwide. As I’ve watched profile pictures change on Facebook, hashtags trend on Twitter about #equality, and browsed online photo galleries displaying happiness and tears of joy come from couples who can finally, legally, engage in federally-recognized unions, I’ve been bothered… Continue reading How Should Christians Respond to SCOTUS’ DOMA ruling?
Nik Wallenda Crosses the Grand Canyon: ‘Thank You Jesus’
Nik Wallenda crossed the Grand Canyon successfully tonight, without a safety harness, while proclaiming his faith and trust in Jesus. “Thank you, Jesus,” he said several times during his walk across the 1,400-foot tightrope over 1,500 feet above the canyon (a height taller than the Empire State Building). During my interview with him last week,… Continue reading Nik Wallenda Crosses the Grand Canyon: ‘Thank You Jesus’
West Chicagoland Anti-Trafficking Coalition Launch: Refuse to Do Nothing
Tonight over 50 people gathered at Glen Ellyn’s Blackberry Market for the launch of the West Chicago Anti-Trafficking Coalition. Representatives from churches, nonprofits, and organizations gathered for an evening of networking and conversation about what needs to be done in West Chicagoland to combat human trafficking of all kinds, including labor and sex trafficking happening… Continue reading West Chicagoland Anti-Trafficking Coalition Launch: Refuse to Do Nothing
Before I die, I want to . . . (see the Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup)
Party with Jesus (yes). Speak a second language (Spanish). Write a novel (in the works). Drop it like it’s hawt (done). Go to Thailand (eventually). Love where I live (done). Go to New Zealand (and Australia). And yes, as the loyal Chicagoan I am, I’d also like to see the Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup… Continue reading Before I die, I want to . . . (see the Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup)