Dear VOA Family,  For the past month I have been focused on self-love and being intentional about caring for and loving myself. I often beat up on myself and engage in negative self-talk. But last month I made a promise to be kind to me and to work on apologizing to me. This poem by Tahlia Hunter speaks volumes to me! A meditation moment from Kathy Atkins. I owe myself an apology For all the times I tore myself apart.  When I neglected my own needs Lowered my standards Berated myself And put myself down.  For the self-sabotage I continually inflicted upon myself And the times when…

A meditation moment from Becky Carlino. Throughout our day, we may feel out of sorts. Perhaps your distress is from unmet expectations, work, or family. I believe the best thing you can do is pause and breathe.  Clear the clutter from your head. Pause and breathe. Then you can approach the situation with a clear mind.    Easier said than done, right?   How do I pause and breathe? I thought I’d talk about meditation with you. Meditation is a practice focusing on clearing your mind. You can use a combination of mental and physical techniques. Then you can focus, relax, soothe…

As we move through our busy days, it’s good to take a step back and be mindful of our day, setting intentions and staying present. As we approach warmer weather, we are reminded to slow down and enjoy as much of it as we can, staying in a state of gratitude for all that life brings.  Photo by Alina Vilchenko on Pexels.com As we move through our busy days, it’s good to take a step back and be mindful of our day, setting intentions and staying present.  As we approach warmer weather, we are reminded to slow down and enjoy as…

He told them: “Take nothing for the journey—no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra shirt. Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town. If people do not welcome you, leave their town and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” So they set out and went from village to village, proclaiming the good news and healing people everywhere. Luke 9:3-6 (NIV) Photo by Porapak Apichodilok on Pexels.com Throughout the Bible, we have explored many different journeys of the discipleship. On my journey, I have learned that God has and will…

Our organization wouldn’t exist without all of the dedicated staff that show up to change lives everyday.  Read about some of your neighbors, why they’re here and maybe a bit about their lives away from VOA.  If you’re interested in sharing your story, send us a message! Meet Natalie GreenCognitive Skills Specialist, ClinicalCincinnati, Ohio Tell us something interesting about you!I began working VOA July 2022. I started off in the RS position, that’s where I learned so much about our mission. I grew up in this neighborhood (downtown Cincinnati) and I’m very familiar with the building, so to finally see…