Kristin Hill Taylor

Seeking God as the Author of Every Story

  • Home
  • About
  • Books
    • Peace in the Process
    • Bringing Home More Than Groceries
  • Contact

Truth, goodness & beauty

January 11, 2017 by Kristin 26 Comments

“We think to determine three things: whether something is true, whether something should be done, and whether something commands our appreciation. In other words, we think to know truth, goodness, and beauty.” – Andrew Kern, founder of CiRCE Institute

This quote – especially those three words: truth, goodness, beauty – stopped my mindless social media scrolling.

I read that quote on Instagram the other day and have been thinking about it. My kids’ have outgrown their school shirts that have those same three words on them along with the New Covenant Christian Academy logo.

(Upon searching older pictures, I think the shirt I’m thinking about actually says “Truth. Beauty. Virtue.” But, you know, virtue and goodness are synonyms, so same thing.)

I knew this was a foundation of classical education, of which I’ve learned about since enrolling my daughter in this school 4 1/2 years ago, but I’ve been gaining a new perspective about how truth, goodness, and beauty fit into everyday life. These foundations of our faith prompt us to be aware of from where we’re gaining truth, how God is faithful and good even when our society cries out otherwise, and how there is so much beauty around us and in us that there’s so many reasons we should be praising God.

Truth, goodness, and beauty sound
old-fashioned, but they matter today.

{Tweet that.}

I’m thrilled my kids learn about that at school. And I’m grateful God continues teaching me two decades into following Him.

Lately I’ve been thinking about what’s true as I parent, as I reflect on longtime and everyday friendships, as I strive to seek God in all things, as we step out in faith to begin a new small group to serve our local community. Sometimes I complain about the weather, or my kids’ behavior, or how long my husband takes to put away his clean laundry.

I get distracted by things that don’t matter,
but God’s goodness abounds right here.

{Tweet that.}

I’ve been known to overthink things, replaying or anticipating conversations, reading between the lines that aren’t actually there, and planning reactions before they’re even necessary. I’m learning when I let my thoughts be captive and obedient to Christ (2 Cor. 10:5) and think about whatever is true, noble, and lovely (Phil. 4:8), then I’m not left overthinking and dwelling on things of this world. Rather my focus is on what matters.

And that’s a beautiful thing rooted in truth and goodness.

*****

After seeing that quote, I researched who said it and happened upon the article from which the quote comes. Regardless of whether classical education is part of your life, the whole article is worth reading.

*****

Kristin Hill Taylor - 3 Word Wednesday
 Loading InLinkz ...
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email this to a friend (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • More
  • Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
  • Click to print (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

Filed Under: Three Word Wednesday Tagged With: faith, quotes, school

Comments

  1. Michele Morin says

    January 11, 2017 at 7:06 am

    And this is why I have persevered in homeschooling, but, as you say, we need truth, goodness and beauty in our lives no matter what else we are doing with our days.

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      January 11, 2017 at 7:12 am

      In everything, which is a reminder I need regardless of the season. Thanks for being here, Michele!

      Reply
  2. Candace Playforth says

    January 11, 2017 at 7:20 am

    Being rooted in truth and goodness is truly a beautiful thing. I couldn’t agree with you more. I’m definitely an over-thinker too and could use some work in this area ;). Good to see you today, friend.

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      January 11, 2017 at 7:22 am

      I’m right there with you, Candace. It’s a constant thing in my mind! I hope you’re doing well. I’m glad you’re here today. xo

      Reply
  3. Joanne Viola says

    January 11, 2017 at 7:32 am

    Kristin, my desire is to be less distracted this year. My word last year was “see” and I learned quickly that I can easily see things that truly won’t matter a hill of beans. Only as I stay focused, taking my thoughts captive, will I be better able to live boldly and courageously this year – moving forward into all that He has for me.
    My granddaughters are also receiving a classical education so I very much appreciated the quote and will read the entire article. The website looks wonderful and will be passing all of this along 🙂
    Thank you for blessing me in many ways this morning! Have a great Wednesday!

    Reply
    • Kristin Taylor says

      January 11, 2017 at 10:38 am

      I was just talking to Cate last night about faith I’d be willing to act when we can’t see what’s going to happen. I’m so glad you could be encouraged this morning and I’m grateful for your encouragement for me. xoxo

      Reply
  4. Jennie says

    January 11, 2017 at 7:42 am

    Yes and yes, I have that wrote on our homeschool white-board, need that reminder everyday to keep the focus on what is important.

    Reply
    • Kristin Taylor says

      January 11, 2017 at 10:38 am

      It’s a good quote and I know I’m not done thinking about it. 🙂

      Reply
  5. Jennifer Linck says

    January 11, 2017 at 8:29 am

    We are so much alike. I’m the same way – the whole overthinking things and reading between the lines that aren’t there. I love that you use the verse about taking our thoughts captive. Our message at church on Sunday was about cutting off fruitless thoughts in our life. I’m trying really hard to do that – to think on whatever is pure and lovely.

    Reply
    • Kristin Taylor says

      January 11, 2017 at 10:39 am

      Pruning is always hard and I think cutting off fruitless thoughts is especially hard because the smallest things prompt them to creep back in. Praying for you (and me!) as we work on this. Thank you for being here. Love you!

      Reply
  6. Susan Shipe says

    January 11, 2017 at 8:41 am

    Are the children being taught the Classical Conversation curriculum? I know how awesome that is!!!

    Reply
    • Kristin Taylor says

      January 11, 2017 at 10:41 am

      They go to a classical Christian school that uses a combination of a few different curriculums. We’ve loved it so much.

      Reply
  7. Melody says

    January 11, 2017 at 9:20 am

    Truth Goodness and Beauty – yes, great words to focus on and how blended make such a sweet aroma of Christ. Blogging a bit about truth and grace today at my place. This was a wonderful read for me today.

    Reply
    • Kristin Taylor says

      January 11, 2017 at 10:41 am

      I’m looking forward to reading your post today. I love when God puts his people on the same page like that!

      Reply
  8. Tara says

    January 11, 2017 at 10:15 am

    Oh friend, I am so guilty of THIS too: “I’ve been known to overthink things, replaying or anticipating conversations, reading between the lines that aren’t actually there, and planning reactions before they’re even necessary. I’m learning when I let my thoughts be captive and obedient to Christ (2 Cor. 10:5) and think about whatever is true, noble, and lovely (Phil. 4:8), then I’m not left overthinking and dwelling on things of this world. Rather my focus is on what matters. And that’s a beautiful thing rooted in truth and goodness.” Amen sister! 🙂

    Reply
    • Kristin Taylor says

      January 11, 2017 at 10:42 am

      It’s good not to be alone. 🙂 Glad you’re here!

      Reply
  9. Becky Hastings says

    January 11, 2017 at 10:19 am

    Oh, how my focus has been so clouded by everything in the world (both real and online). I am desperately needing some soul space to clear the fog and find Jesus.
    Thank you for the reminder.

    Reply
    • Kristin Taylor says

      January 11, 2017 at 10:42 am

      Soul space is precious. I hope you have some. I know how those clouds are. Thanks for being here, Becky!

      Reply
  10. Tiffany Parry says

    January 11, 2017 at 1:31 pm

    Yes! Captive thoughts and thinking on goodness. I’ve been focusing on that in this season that feels a bit murky and uncertain – remembering that God is good and that while I feel like I don’t know, He does. Love your words today, friend – but then I always do. Have I mentioned that we should do coffee?! If only. xoxo

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      January 11, 2017 at 2:21 pm

      We should totally do coffee. I mean, I wouldn’t drink coffee because I don’t like it, but I would drink something else there. And eat pastry. AND TALK TO YOU FACE TO FACE. One day, friend. I would love it so. I’m glad you’re on this journey with me. xoxo

      Reply
  11. Lisa Appelo says

    January 11, 2017 at 4:34 pm

    Kristin, I’ve seen quotes on these 3 virtues as well over the years as we’ve homeschooled. In a word gone wild, those virtues are a helpful filter for sure. They seem old fashioned but boy are they refreshing! Thank you for hosting. Hope you all had a great Christmas and New Year.

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      January 12, 2017 at 7:17 am

      It’s one of those things I’ve heard before but it struck me in a new way, which is always good. 🙂 Thanks for being here, Lisa.

      Reply
  12. Simply Beth says

    January 12, 2017 at 6:17 am

    Good stuff. I miss reading your words on a regular basis. Need to change that. Glad I stopped by today. I adore you, friend. I really, really do.

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      January 12, 2017 at 7:18 am

      You know I miss you, love you, and adore you right back. Come back to Tennessee, and let me know when you come. 🙂 xoxo

      Reply
  13. Dawn says

    January 12, 2017 at 8:41 am

    Andrew Kern is one of my all-time favorite speakers, writers, thinkers. And he Truth, Goodness, and Beauty….sister, there is so much depth there. The world twists all three words, taking them out of context and covering them with the gloss of autonomous theology. And how grateful I am that we found the nugget of blessing in choosing Classical Education. Solo Deo Gloria!!! You’d love Leigh Bortins books on classical education if you want to read mor and Norms and Nobility is one of my most favorites!!

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      January 12, 2017 at 8:44 am

      Thanks for the other book recommendations! 🙂 It’s so true that people twist what’s God’s truth and make it into something so distorted that it’s not even recognizable anymore. Parenting has prompted me to look at my own faith in such a deeper way. Thanks for being here, Dawn!

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let’s Connect

  • Bloglovin
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • RSS
  • Twitter

About Me

Telling stories is my therapy and I love sharing them with friends on my porch.

The main characters in my stories are my entrepreneur husband, our ninth-grade girl who never forgets, our have-no-fear sixth-grade boy, and our joy-filled kindergarten girl. As we live out our stories, we seek God as the author of them all.

Learn more about my story here.

Subscribe for Updates

Recent Posts

  • Fifteen
  • Help kids have healthy eating habits
  • How to organize your home
  • Let’s come before the throne
  • 3 Ways to Enhance Kids’ Cognitive Skills

#PorchStories button

Join the Conversation

Join the Conversation

On Instagram

I miss … … a few particular friends from whom I miss …

… a few particular friends from whom I’m separated by circumstances, logistics, and distances. 

When I make a friend, I intend to stay friends forever. Of course, life doesn’t always work out that way. 

I don’t miss my kids being young, but I miss the ease of socializing with my friends during that season. It was easy then to meet at the park or go somewhere for lunch. Now there are so many schedules to work around. 

Scheduling time to lunch or get together is still my love language, it just takes a little more work, patience, and persistence now. And sometimes that’s exhausting. But it’s always worth it. 

#OneDayMay #maydays #bettertogether #livingfaithfully #reallife
School’s out FOR THE SUMMER! #88daysofsummer #mo School’s out FOR THE SUMMER! #88daysofsummer #momlife #siblinglove #summerisbest #maydays
I’m proud of myself for … … surviving and t I’m proud of myself for …

… surviving and thriving this school year. I resist change almost all of the time, and the past nine months have been full of so many transitions for our whole family. I know, that’s life, but these changes seem like the kind that will mark us forever. 

My kids navigated new beginnings in kindergarten, middle school, and high school. As a mom, sometimes I’m too close to see the growth, but this year it happened in each of them right before my eyes. They navigated friendship hurdles, embraced new friends, and settled a little more into who God created them to be. Middle school isn’t for the faint of heart, but I feel like I’ve come out of this year closer to my son, so I will take it. 

I’m proud of myself for leaning into where God has me. I’ve grown deeper friendships, invested in my kids’ school as a board member and business manager, and seen God work in our ordinary days. 

Y’all know I’m a summer girl, so I’m proud of myself through getting through the winter and coming into summer stronger and braver. 

#OneDayMay #maydays #livingfaithfully #choosingJOY #momlife #summerisbest #bettertogether
I’m honestly surprised I didn’t read this book I’m honestly surprised I didn’t read this book sooner. I loved so much about it, but I did want some of her stories to be  less repetitive and offer more practical advice for living out “radical, ordinary hospitality.” Rosaria Butterfield defines hospitality like this as sharing what you have in real time, preparing to continually life this lifestyle, and bringing strangers in so they become neighbors who become family. 

I took notes throughout, but especially during the introduction. I came away with an appreciation that hospitality can involve lists, schedules, and habits. I felt encouraged, even if I thought the book could have been organized better to include practical tips and other people’s stories. 

#KHTreads #bookstagram #audiobooks #livingfaithfully #bookreview #booklover
Something I don’t usually share (online) … I Something I don’t usually share (online) …

I am an opinionated person, but I don’t usually share political opinions on social media. People who know me in real life know I value being pro-life, having less government involvement in our everyday lives, defining marriage as God intended it, and being fiscally conservative. As a former newspaper reporter, I still get excited about elections. I admittedly pay a little less attention in the almost 15 years I haven’t been in a newsroom. But I still care and have plenty of opinions. 

I voted today in Kentucky’s Primary Election. I’m thankful for the freedom to share my opinion by darkening some blocks on a paper ballot. 

#OneDayMay #maydays #reallife #livingfaithfully
Old friends and live music are two of my favorite Old friends and live music are two of my favorite things, so having them together is the best. My friend Aaron and I went to multiple Dave Matthews Band shows together during our college years, so now two decades later it’s fun to do it again as grown ups with our spouses for a band that speaks truth into our lives. 

@needtobreathe put on the loudest acoustic tour I’ve ever seen, but it sure was good! And its encore of completely unplugged songs was especially sweet. 

#NTBlive #needtobreathe #bettertogether #choosingJOY #favoritethings #livingfaithfully #weekending
Happiness is … … a slow morning that gave me Happiness is …

… a slow morning that gave me a chance to finish reading a good book right after I fixed my favorite cinnamon toast. 

… some shade to invite me to pick some more weeds around the house. But why doesn’t my Apple Watch count this as exercise? It felt like exercise to me! 

… an appointment with my oldest girl for us both to get our nails done this morning. 

… my youngest girl’s last soccer game of the season, even though the heat made her a little grumpy. 

… pool time, another good book to read, my mom visiting for the second weekend in a row, a little more weeding, and a night at home with no specific plans. 

Happiness is everyday, normal life with my people, especially when it comes with a slower pace after a hectic week. 

#OneDayMay #maydays #soccermom #KHTreads #momlife #weekending #choosingJOY #livingfaithfully #poolpeople #PorchStories
I regretted having to go to sleep last night befor I regretted having to go to sleep last night before I finished this book, so I picked it up at breakfast and didn’t do anything else until I finished it. 

I loved the Alaskan cruise setting, the quick love and understanding between Greta and Ben, and the realistic ways grief changes people. Well done, @jenniferesmith! 

#KHTreads #bookstagram #kindlebooks #booklover #kindlepaperwhite #reallife #weekending #recommendedreads #poolpeople #amreading
Happy Friday! 🎉 We’ve got four more days of s Happy Friday! 🎉 We’ve got four more days of school next week and then it’s #88daysofsummer! Obviously, we’re ready. ☀️ 

Here’s to a refreshing weekend with much anticipation of what’s to come! #weekending #choosingJOY #livingfaithfully #thirdchild #momlife #summerisbest #poolpeople #PorchStories #maydays
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Favorites

Categories

Archives

Copyright © 2022 Kristin Hill Taylor | Design by Traci Michele | Development by MRM

loading Cancel
Post was not sent - check your email addresses!
Email check failed, please try again
Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email.