Compassion and Peace in a Confusing World
I write a lot about the recognition of the anniversary of events. I’ve encouraged our recognition of particular mass shootings at schools. We don’t do this because we celebrate such heinous crimes, but because we never want to see it occur again and we take time to pray for those who loved those beautiful people… Continue reading More Work To Do
For the past couple months I have focused the At Peace blog toward understanding the importance of helping others who are experiencing loss in their life. I hope readers received something helpful in the posts. This week I have received some big-time help in the effort. On May 2, 2023 our Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, declared loneliness as… Continue reading Addressing Loneliness
In the midst of the Thanksgiving holiday season, our country, our state, and especially our community of Hampton Roads, Virginia were shocked by horrendous mass shootings which, once again, have touched many families and all those who loved the victims. Colorado Springs (11/19),Charlottesville VA (11/13), and Chesapeake, VA (11/22) are suffering through grief and loss.… Continue reading Where Do We Turn?
We are reading and hearing that the Covid pandemic is a thing of the past. Maybe, but 500 people died from the virus per day on average last week. Another booster shot for the prevalent variant is being distributed to the public in the coming weeks. Stay safe, friends. But even when this virus becomes… Continue reading The Hidden Impact of Grief and Loss
Next Tuesday, August 30 is National Grief Awareness Day. I was reminded by my professional organization, the Association for Death Education and Counseling (ADEC), that on that day we might (1): support a grieving friend and/or (2) engage in self-care on this day of appreciation and respect. I had forgotten there is a day devoted to these… Continue reading Did You Know?
I have been writing blog posts for the past year and a half, many focused on the coronavirus pandemic impact on families following a loved one’s death. I sincerely hope that my thoughts have helped folks begin to reconcile tragic circumstances. Today’s blog shifts the focus to myself and my family. Last week I became… Continue reading Living Life
What is the “the perfect storm?” In the movie, The Perfect Storm (released in 2000), the worst possible storm predictions came together to create a tempest in the North Atlantic Ocean. The fishing boat in the midst of it did not have a chance. There may be another type of perfect storm brewing in our… Continue reading The Perfect Storm Revisited
All kinds of thoughts going through my mind these last few weeks. The Center for Disease Control reported we may choose to wear a mask, or not wear it, based on the infection rates of where will live. Of course, this sounds positive and is based on the clear statistics across the U.S. that the… Continue reading Seeking Peace
I participate in a group called Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation, an organization and community focusing on contemplative spirituality. Along with their teachings, the group spends a great deal of time in contemplative prayer including intercessory prayer for others. Richard Foster, in his book Prayer, defines intercession as “shifting our center of gravity from our own needs… Continue reading Life’s Mysteries
I still feel as if we all are isolated. A few days ago, I needed to visit a drug store. I was thinking two or three times about going – will it be crowded, which mask do I have in the car... the one my sister-in-law made – not safe but comfortable, or the N-95… Continue reading The Good in Our Life
At Peace 