Infinitely Precious

This week’s podcast explores the timeless question posed by the apostle Paul: “Why do I do what I don’t want to do?” James reflects on how much of our missteps stem from living on autopilot—moving through life without full awareness of our actions, words, and choices. He shares insights on the power of presence, the importance of paying attention, and the freedom that comes with slowing down to notice what’s truly happening within us and around us. Using everyday examples, including the experience of driving without remembering the journey, he highlights how being fully engaged in the present moment can help us make better choices and avoid harm, both to ourselves and others. Ultimately, James invites listeners to cultivate attentiveness, recognizing that paying attention grants us the ability to act with intention rather than reaction. As always, he reminds us that, no matter what, we are infinitely precious and unconditionally loved.

We often imagine that something or someone external to us is the cause of frustration. Perhaps we are the author of frustration in our lives?

The end of a calendar is a time when we can choose the listen for the echoes of lessons learned this year. What have I learned about myself? What will I leave behind as I move forward? On what will I focus my energies in the time ahead? May your reflections give you opportunity to celebrate!

In this episode of The Infinitely Precious Podcast, host James Henry invites listeners to reflect on the transformative power of the simple word and. Drawing inspiration from his personal journey of learning Aramaic—the language most likely spoken by Jesus—James explores how a single letter at the beginning of words signifies connection in both Aramaic and Hebrew, much like the English conjunction and.

James contrasts the inclusive, unifying nature of and with the divisive, dualistic tendencies of or. He reflects on how life’s complexities often call for a both/and mindset rather than an either/or approach. Through personal stories and spiritual reflections, James discusses embracing paradoxes such as strength and vulnerability, divinity and humanity, and faith andscience.

He shares how his own experiences in faith communities and relationships, especially his 33-year marriage, have taught him the depth of connection that can emerge when we hold space for differing perspectives. James challenges listeners to notice where they default to or in their daily lives and invites them to reframe those moments by embracing and—finding inclusivity, connection, and deeper understanding.

The episode closes with an encouraging reminder: you are infinitely precious and unconditionally loved for the gift you already are. James leaves listeners with a practical reflection for the week—look for opportunities to replace or with and, and see how it transforms your connections with yourself, others, and the world.

Forgiveness is not easy. It is a journey and we must begin somewhere. In today's podcast, I share some thoughts about a first step we can make on the path toward forgiving.