Canyons & Fireworks

      This past week my stepdaughter was having a bad day. Her team lost their soccer game, she was sore from physical training, her math homework stumped her, and she was quarreling with her best friend. I found myself trying to give a peep talk on the way to dropping her off at school.      I told her as much we hate to admit it, we grow the most through difficulty. The hard times make us stronger, give us a new perspective, and we experience personal growth. As a parent there is such a temptation to shield children from unpleasantries. We do not want to see those we love suffer and we like being the hero. It would have been easy to tell her everything would work out and to turn that frown upside down, but I have learned better....     Nothing against optimism, but I think she was better off connecting with what she was feeling. I was impressed with her ability to communicate what was really on her mind and depth of her perspective at such a you...

     Recalling all can be a comfort. We are often taught to live in the present and never look back. The dangers of living in the past can be detrimental; pitfalls of regret, unforgiveness, and remorse deteriorate the mind and soul. Yet how sad to miss out on the full breadth of redemption. Healing can be gradual and then sudden. Like a child growing, one cannot always see the change in stature. A glimpse into the past can be rewarding and carry new revelations. We are told that time heals all wounds, but how will we know if we do not take a look back? Done correctly, glimpses can speaks of the goodness of The Lord in the land of the living.     Lately, I have been immensely grateful for all the Lord has delivered me from and all He has given me over the years. Could some reflection produce a grateful heart for you or some praise from you?     

Time. We claim we do not have enough time for the things we enjoy, people we love, or to build healthy habits. Mostly, time seems to rage on without consulting human agendas or preferences. Honeymoons and vacations are the most slippery in the hands of time while youth is the most devastated casualty. One sure way to slow the tempo of life is to undergo a transition. Suddenly the hasty pace of all things relaxes to an offensive crawl or slither.  My office has been going through a refresh. Wonderful news, except for the fact that all of my belongs had to be temporarily relocated to my home living room. The moment the items settled into their accommodation; time halted. While disruptive this truly is a First World problem and the momentary inconvenience does allow for a welcome change. Nonetheless, business has not been usual. I was working from home when the "snail mail" arrived. While running outside to fetch it, I came across a tiny real snail gliding across my driveway. Am...

     Jesus' life was marked with a sort of disappointing rejection. At the very beginning there was no room for Him in the inn. As miraculous as the glory of the Lord shinning around the shepherds and directing them to honor the birth of Jesus is, Jesus deserved more fanfare. All knowing Jesus did not come to be served but to serve, but I wonder if Mary was ever disappointed by the lack of celebration for her son. Before you assume Mary was too humble for such a thought, ask yourself if your mamma bear instincts will come out if your kid is benched for another little league game?     We read few details about the childhood of our savior but we know He was questioned, rejected, harassed, misunderstood, undervalued, lied about, betrayed and eventually crucified.      In Mark 2 we read about Jesus healing the paralyzed man. This part of scripture is often used to teach friendship, perseverance, and faith. I was praying for two dear friends who were ...

     A theme of correction, this year, is to bridle my tongue. I can be opinionated, loud, and just plain talkative. Sometimes I wonder if I overwhelm some of my reserved or introverted friends. My aim is never to dominate but rather to freely be myself. Living freely without judging myself has taken some time and effort to cultivate, so the subject of being "slow to speak" has not been at the forefront until now.     Since being highlighted I have had some successes and I have had some setbacks. It all started with a word from God to, "Be of no opinion until you have heard from Me." Of course, He did not mean to suggest that I or anyone else should need direction on purchasing an apple verses an orange at the grocery store but mainly in regard to the matters of true importance and of the heart.     After a while, I started to notice an atmosphere of humility. Years ago, I was often credited for a level of humility when I kept to myself and sp...

Redemption is such a hopeful concept. To maintain the full power of redemption we need transformation. Aw transformation the chance to change for the better! I don't know about you, but I like the possibility of positive change. I want to be more full of faith, hope, and love in all circumstances and for every person.  Today, my hardworking, talented, precious sister was told her teaching job will be cut to part-time next school year. To make matters worse she is three months pregnant. Horrible timing! As she explained through tears and voiced her concerns my heart ached for her heart. Surprisingly, I was oddly hopeful. I believe this change, while unwelcomed, will facilitate constructive adjustments. She will surly transition to a more fulfilling position and be closer to home. Most of all, in a year this seemingly bad news will be looked upon as the day that led to a happier ever after.   This may sound like naive positivity but my thoughts come from experience. Looking...

      A lonely ivy is the sole survivor of a slew of house plants. My love of flowers did not bestow a green thumb; just as my love of song did not award me a voice. Yet, spring has bloomed early, and I wanted to participate. I decided a bouquet would be a nice start versus the commitment of another doomed potted plant. Normally I opt for a bright mixture of vibrant lilies, carnations, and delphinium. This time I was drawn to the simplicity of baby's breath and eucalyptus; although these two are often used as fillers they possess a simple elegance on their own.         Recently, I was tasked with explaining the concept of identity to children. I was reminded that i dentity can easily be confused with personality, achievement, status, or the like. True identity is our  most  basic self. The example I mustered was to think of a newborn baby. The baby has not done or said anything yet is greatly loved, celebrated, and cared for by loved one...