Main Idea: Exploring the concept of love and its diminishing presence in modern conversations, this episode challenges listeners to rethink the role of love in their lives, its varying forms, and how societal perceptions have shifted love from a foundational value to something often sidelined or viewed skeptically.

Summary of the Show: In this insightful episode, George B. Thomas and Liz Moorehead dive deep into the complexities of love, asking the provocative question: “When did love become uncool?” They explore why love, despite being central to human experience and relationships, is often dismissed or downplayed in today’s culture. George reflects on his personal journey with love, from sermons he gave as a teenager to his current understanding of different types of love—ranging from agape (unconditional love) to pragma (enduring love). The conversation touches on how love has been commercialized, trivialized, and distorted by pop culture, leading many to shy away from embracing or discussing love openly. They also delve into how true love goes beyond romantic notions and encompasses self-love, compassion, and commitment to others' well-being.

Quotes:

• “Love isn’t just a fleeting feeling; it’s what makes happiness deep and lasting when we tie it into everything we do.” - George B. Thomas
• “When love drives us to seek justice and fairness, we help build a more compassionate world.” - George B. Thomas
• “It’s okay to be vulnerable in showing your love. If discomfort equals growth, why not embrace it?” - George B. Thomas
• “True love isn’t supposed to be stressful; it’s the unlock element for everything else in our lives.” - George B. Thomas

Scriptures:

• 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."
• 1 John 4:18: "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love."
• Proverbs 10:12: "Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs."
• Colossians 3:14: "And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."

Reflective Questions:

1. Self-Assessment: How comfortable are you with openly expressing love in your life? Are there areas where you hold back due to fear or societal expectations?
2. Cultural Perception: In what ways has pop culture influenced your understanding and expression of love? How might that perception be limiting your relationships or self-growth?
3. Types of Love: Which forms of love (romantic, self-love, agape) are most prevalent in your life? How can you cultivate a more balanced approach to expressing and receiving love?
4. Barriers to Love: What past hurts or societal pressures keep you from fully embracing love? How can you begin to dismantle those barriers?
5. Daily Practice: What intentional practices can you incorporate into your routine to make love a more active and consistent part of your life?

Embracing the journey of growth, vulnerability, and self-worth by reflecting on past challenges and how they shape our future selves. This episode dives into the raw, unfiltered check-in between George and Liz as they unpack their journeys over the past year.

Show Summary :

In this special check-in episode, George and Liz reflect on their personal growth journeys over the past year while discussing vulnerability, self-worth, and the lessons they've learned. The conversation is honest, raw, and full of insights as they explore the challenges of consistency, embracing vulnerability as a superpower, and navigating the balance between boundaries and walls. They share their highlights and lowlights, address tough questions about self-belief, and offer practical advice for listeners on overcoming mental barriers and stepping into their true potential.

Quotes:

• “You can be on a football field and you know the boundaries. But if I lock the doors, you can't even get into the stadium. I wasn’t letting people into the stadium to play the game that is life.” - George B. Thomas
• “I was too loud, too tall, too strange—and I see worth in that now.” - Liz Moorehead
• “When you pour love into yourself, it becomes easier to pour love into your world.” - Liz Moorehead
• “If discomfort equals growth, why would I run from discomfort? I’m embracing it and moving forward.” - George B. Thomas

Relevant Scriptures:

• Psalms 46:10: "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
• Proverbs 16:3: "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans."
• James 4:6: "But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’"
• Philippians 4:6-7: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Reflective Questions:

1. Self-Assessment: How has your relationship with self-worth evolved over the past year? Are you more or less confident in your abilities and value?
2. Vulnerability and Growth: What walls have you built to protect yourself from discomfort? How can you begin to dismantle them to allow for growth?
3. Consistency and Focus: What areas of your life need more focus to maintain consistency? Are you saying yes to too many things?
4. Support Systems: Who can you trust to help you navigate moments of vulnerability and self-doubt? How can you strengthen these relationships?
5. Belief in Possibilities: How has your belief in what’s possible for your future changed over time? Are you excited or anxious about the path ahead?