There are big things in life that give us pause—and tempt us with worry. Things like illness, job struggles, and conflicts. They call us to a deeper and higher faith. Then there are other things that are small, and stupid, and annoying, and seemingly insignificant in...
Spiritual Editing
Mark-ups (whether red, purple or blue) from editing are my friends. A fellow writer and dear friend once told me of his posture toward editors—they are his welcomed friends. Thanks, Gordon. He told me he accepts most all of the input they give him. Ironically, he...
A Friday the 13th Good Thing!
If you are nervous that Friday the 13th is not supposed to be a good day... I actually have some good news for you. My good friend Elizabeth Thompson, who happens to be a gifted writer, launched a fabulous new website today. On this site you can find some excellent...
Consequently
“Dad had me take a snowboard lesson; consequently he didn't get to snowboard.”--Micah This was an observation my five-year-old grandson stated after his Saturday outing. I love that he thought about his dad, who loves snowboarding. I also love that he loves words,...
50 Vibrant Colors
On a day when a few parts of the world celebrate love, and a day when a warped, messed up distortion of a so called love story premieres…thought it would be encouraging to share “50 Vibrant Colors” of true love I’ve seen, experienced and felt this year. Feel free to...
Our Culture’s Aroma: What Do You Smell?
Pleasant smells are wafting from my kitchen--both sweet and savory. My appointments cancelled today, morphing my plans…so I’m spending much of the day in the kitchen. A friend’s father passed this week and my neighbor had a baby, so it seemed a good time to send out...
The Heart of a Child at Christmas
What would Christmas be without children? I am often amazed, softened and challenged by thoughts that go through their minds and out of their mouths. Micah’s dad, Justin (or Gus…he goes by both), shared about a conversation with Micah (4) that took place earlier this...
Which Letter is Yours?
In the spirit of Thanksgiving…. Whenever I read the short book of Philippians, I am struck by the apostle Paul’s gratitude and corresponding joy. Whether or not you celebrate a particular day of Thanksgiving, take the time this week to read the short book of...
The Power of a Sneeze
It’s that time of year. My entire family has spread the coughing, sneezing, hacking stuff. I’m in the midst of it, and with a workshop tomorrow I’m trying hard to get over it in order to keep from sounding like a hoarse horse when I speak. Thankfully, I'm better...
Who’s the Boss?
Recounting a recent conversation between my daughter and my nearly three-year-old granddaughter, I was reminded of the struggle it can be to let go of control in our lives. (Disclaimer: Gracie is as joyful and sweet as they come…but the inner struggle occasionally...
Sunsets and Elephant Poop
Sunsets showcase God's magnificence...and so does elephant poop. Yes, that's right--elephant poop. This week, while at a meeting outside of Geneva, I stood in awe of God the painter--as I watched the sun go down over Lake Geneva. The scene took my breath away. I...
A Work in Progress
For nine consecutive mornings, while attending a church leadership conference in Singapore, I opened the hotel window curtain to an inspiring view. It wasn’t a view of the bustling harbor below or of the beautiful orchids carefully planted throughout the city. This...