We've experienced more grief as a nation this year than we ever imagined possible. Many have suffered heartbreaking personal losses which make the world's darkness unbearable. We long for comfort. A breath of air above the merciless waves of pain. No matter what condolences our neighbors offer in an attempt to…
Some face relationship issues while others suffer from loneliness. From disappointments to frustration or even anger, this week's circumstances could rattle your heart. In fact, any given time of year can present us with a torrent of emotions. We can rise on a wave of happiness with high expectations and…
The smoke settles across our fire-scorched battlefield. Beside us, the mud groans as it swallows the two severed dragon heads of distorted identity. The dragon's sister also decays on this field. Misplaced authority oozes its last bit of stench into the distant wind. The paved road glimmers with fresh dew…
Today, as yesterday, I needed grace. Lots. Of. It. Not just a trickle of patience and favor, but drenching downpours. My human nature has a default setting of irritability, impatience, and self-centered entitlement. I'm often in need of more nourishment and rest, which cranks up my crankiness factor. In my rough-edged…
Sometimes the bottom seems to drop out from beneath you. Financial crisis, loss, illness, or any manner of devastation can occur when we least expect it possible. Sinkholes will cave around our feet in life, even for those of us who try to plan well. A stomach virus served me…
"Why?" I thrust my hands upward and wailed to the ceiling. "Why does it have to be so HARD?" The alleged two-step cabinet refinishing project had taken five steps and as many days. Bruised, blistered, and sore, I teetered on the edge of the countertop in an effort to replace the…
We moved last week. When other people move, change jobs, add to their family, etc, the shift seems inconsequential. Until it happens to you. Over the past week, I realized that heaving a tough load over an uneven threshold offers a very different perspective than watching someone else do it. Physical,…
As children, we fidgeted through the advent season. Those ribbon-locked packages peeked from under our Christmas trees as if teasing us. Some of us, not to be named, might have failed this test of patience and suffered the consequences. Christmas tests our patience in more serious ways as we mature. The…
Fortunate folks huddle into homes gleaming with smiles. Fall decor gilds each room, while spiced scents draw them to a massive banquet of joy. Hugs lead family and guests to fill the seats around a table brimming with all manner of sweets and starches. A plump turkey gleams at the…
Have you ever struggled with transitions and stress? If shifts in life wrack you off balance, you're not alone. Moving from known to unfamiliar challenges us all. Discomfort in times of transition is a normal part of the human experience. We're wired to enjoy our security and feel apprehensive when circumstances…