Compassion and Peace in a Confusing World
Our household seems more excited about Christmas this year, which I attribute to our local grandchildren being six years old. They would tell you they are really seven because the twins were born in early January, and they are so excited about Christmas. Attending church and Sunday School has enhanced their awareness of the Christian… Continue reading A Simple Christmas Post
Last week I was finishing the next post for At Peace, and then, I learned a close friend died. This news stopped me in my tracks and I decided to write about his loss. I spoke with my friend at church every week. I will call him, Jim... because that is his name. Jim was a very interesting… Continue reading And Then…
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 like baseball a great deal. I am not as much of a fanatic now at age 68 than I was many decades ago when I watched, listened and played the game, but I still am a big follower. The death earlier this month of Vin Scully, the legendary broadcaster of the Los Angeles Dodgers,… Continue reading Lessons from Vin
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
Years ago, I decided to leave the human resources management field but had no idea where I would end up working. Someone suggested I meet with a recruiting professional, sometimes called a “head hunter.” I was somewhat leery, but having no other ideas, I called the recommended person and scheduled a meeting. The meeting date… Continue reading Too Nice?
The Association of Writers and Writing Programs (AWP) holds a national conference each year. This year it was held in late March in Philadelphia, and I had the privilege of attending. AWP provides support and resources for nearly 50,000 writers and 550 college and university creative writing programs. The mission of AWP is to amplify… Continue reading Reading and Writing
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
I start off 2022 feeling grateful for my circumstances – wonderful family, nice home, relatively good health, numerous friends, interesting pastimes, resources to enjoy life. But, I am also vigilant because of the continued pandemic, the government, the culture, the future and the impact of all these matters on my friends and our country. I… Continue reading Grateful, But Vigilant
At Peace 