In Disney’s, The Lion King, the filmmaker vividly captures the emotion of The Hero’s Journey. Simba’s carefree, happy childhood is abruptly interrupted with a crisis. For him, it was the tragic death of his father, Mufasa. His uncle, Scar, who orchestrated his brother’s death, convinces Simba that he is to blame for his father’s death. … Continued
As we head into Father’s Day weekend, I’d submit that the best gift isn’t what us fathers or father figures receive … a tie, round of golf or BBQ set. The best gift is what we give our daughters, sons, wives and loved ones. Specifically, a blessing. Here’s the backstory on how I’ve recently come … Continued
When I got “C”s on my report cards, my dad would say, “Did you try your best? Yes? Well then, okay … No problem.” My mom would ground me for a month if I got a B or lower. As I’ve matured, I’ve come to see how supportive and loving my dad was and … Continued
In 2003, a friend of mine was in New York when the “great Northeast blackout” hit. More than 50 million people lost power from eight states, including all the way up to Ontario, Canada. My friend and his bride were at the JFK airport when everything fell apart. An announcement came over the airport … Continued
Editor’s Note: This is the third in a five-part series that takes a scientific approach to study the value and impact The Crucible Project has had on men who are thirsty to live with more integrity, grace and courage. It is based on work of Crucible brother Ryan Poling, a doctoral candidate in clinical psychology. … Continued
How does God see you? The answers to that question will vary greatly. Some people will give a Biblical answer based on the Grace we receive. Some will answer from a place of shame and feel God is always ready to point out flaws. Some believe that as long as they are living “right” and … Continued
Editor’s note: The following post is an excerpt from Dan’s book, When Father is a Bad Word Father. For some, that is a word that conjures up feelings of warmth, security, and pride. For all too many others it is a word that triggers shame, pain, and anger. I have known first-hand the pain … Continued
I was listening to a podcast the other day and heard something about how our brains work that blew me away. As a husband, father, son, brother and friend, hearing this made me realize all the more how thirsty the loved ones in my life really are for authentic blessing from me. First, … Continued
King David was the “apple of God’s eye,” a “man after God’s own heart.” Yet he selfishly used his power to sleep with Bathsheba and to murder her husband as a cover-up. King David took Bathsheba lustfully, “at a time when kings go out to battle.” He mistimed his steps, misused his resources, and set … Continued
Friday, February 8, 2007 is a night I will never forget. I hope my son never forgets it too. Ten years ago my son was 12 years old. A group of dads with 12-year-old sons at my church got together and planned a manhood initiation process and ceremony for our sons. We were inviting our … Continued
