I’ve got big plans – places to be, things to do. But they can wait for tomorrow. I’ve got dishes to do, laundry to fold and a bathroom to clean. Tomorrow. I have a friend to call, a relationship to patch up, a letter to write. Tomorrow. I have a brother in need, a sister in sorrow. Sure, I’ll see them. Tomorrow. I have a book to write, a fence post to set, a yard to mulch. Tomorrow. I can... Read more
The ten-year anniversary of the terrorist attacks falls on a Sunday this year. I wasn’t sure I wanted the church to to say anything from the pulpit. But terrorism strikes at the core of our beings. It’s fear that causes us to respond with fight or flight. It’s fear that causes us to run, to feel and and lash out in anger. Seeing airplanes crash into buildings caused me to think about my own selfish mortality first, then my thoughts... Read more
I held it in my hands. The checkered blue pattern was familiar, but the lines were blending into each other. There were holes in the elbows and another near the tail. I pushed my face into the soft fabric and smelled the faded memories. I can’t get rid of this shirt. It was one of those medium-weight shirts, the kind you wear on a cool autumn evening or a spring day when the beats down on the streets steaming from... Read more
If you are like me, you’re ready to dump this hum-drum life and really start making a difference. There are so many needs out there — real hurts. I imagine what I could do if I were really fulfilling my potential. There is so much change that needs to occur in my workplace, my family, and my neighborhood — and I could do something about it. Why stop there? Why not the world? Would it mean a change in profession,... Read more
On this Labor Day, I’m thinking about work. My job has been unusually stressful, and shows no abatement. It has cut into my relationship, my pleasure, and my sleep. Still I am grateful. I’m employed and I think I’m making a difference. But I must admit, I often relegate my work to duty — punch the clock, do what’s expected, and go home. And that’s sad, because it could be so much more. The Reformation brought about many things in... Read more
“Sehnsucht” I first read the word and just passed it by in my mind. It was foreign, unknown and unneccesary. With 100,000 English words to use, why bother to with another language? Dad spoke German. So did my Aunt. But “I know nothing,” of German, picking up phrases from Hogan’s Heroes and that’s it. But still, I was intrigued and I don’t know why. “A noun translated as ‘longing,’ ‘yearning’ and ‘craving,'” said the dictionary. “Or, in a wider sense, a type... Read more
If only I had a little more money, I could make a difference.If only I had a little more talent, I could really write things that would impact lives.If only I had a little more time, I could spend more time with the hurting.If only I had better looks, I could be more confident.If only I lived in a different location, I could be involved in my community. If only… I’ve used them all. All the... Read more
She asked me the question, and I could not lie. Myrna, I will floss more. I promise. Myrna, the sweet hygienist that I’ve seen for years is passionate about tooth care. She has a lifetime invested in this profession. So on Wednesday, I went for my scheduled cleaning. I tried to relax, while she lovingly scraped, poked and prodded my gums until I spit blood. It was for my own good, I reminded myself. Every six months, she asks the same question. “Have you... Read more
I have a car that’s paid for and a house that’s wonderfully appointed with furniture and gadgets. I have clothes that are in great condition in a variety of colors and styles. I have a job and some degree of security. There is food on the table and extra in the cupboard. I have people who love me. I bow in humble prayer, giving thanks for the blessing, thanks for the good things. But maybe it’s all too comfortable. Maybe I am missing out... Read more
“Stop telling God how big your storm is….Instead, tell the storm how big your God is!” Read more
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