Hi Reader,

If you’re new to our You Were Made for This podcast you should know that a new episode drops the first and third Wednesday of each month. The last episode was no. 212 which aired last week, “Little Things We Do Matter the Most to People.”

For the Wednesdays without a new episode, like this one, you will find an email/blog post. For example, today I thought you might be interested in how our podcast is encouraging people. Hopefully it’s encouraging you, too. Here are three recent responses from listeners:

A snowbird in Tennessee

“I started listening to Episode 210, ‘Word of the Year for 2024 – Curious‘ and got interrupted. But I finished it this morning. It was perfect timing. [This is the one where I talked about David Brooks’ new book on how to know people. He mentions his experience at a dinner party where he’s curious about everyone there, but no one is curious about him].

“I have been trying to call people I have not spoken to in years. I had two particularly frustrating conversations with people who never asked me one question and just complained. But this podcast motivated me again. Especially the statement. ‘Every person is a mystery'. It encouraged me to search for those precious gems. I have found some priceless ones. Thanks.”

A missionary serving in Ecuador

“Thanks so much, John, for this good counsel for 2024 (also regarding Episode 210, ‘Word of the Year for 2024 – Curious'). I have learned to ask good open questions, but am amazed how many people asked closed ‘yes/no' questions which seem to point the conversation to an end. I hope to remain curious, not just this year, but every year as long as I live. It's good practice but also godly and kind. God bless you, brother, in this new year.”

A listener from South Carolina

“I am not sure why this early episode of yours (Episode 006 ‘The gift of Joy-Part 2’) just played but I was struck by what a great writer you are! It gave me goosebumps. Thanks for the inspiration to look for ways to enjoy other people’s joy! Keep on writing! (this is the episode where I talk about how joy is more like a cat than a dog. the joy of relationships, and my all-time favorite flash mob.)”

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How about you? What have you found encouraging from recent or early shows?

Links to the episodes mentioned today

Until next week, I wish you all the joy that you can wish.*

John Certalic
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You Were Made for This is the podcast sponsored by Caring for Others, a missionary care ministry.

* The Merchant of Venice, Act III, scene 2