Memorial Day Musings

As we enjoy a three-day weekend and picnics with family and friends, let’s take time to reflect on the somber reason for the holiday. Memorial Day – commemorates all men and women who have died in U.S. military service. Veterans Day – which celebrates the service of U.S. military veterans Armed Forces Day – honors […]

Are people able to trust us?

Because of the miraculous signs Jesus did in Jerusalem at the Passover celebration, many began to trust him. But Jesus didn’t trust them, because he knew all about people. No one needed to tell him about human nature, for he knew what was in each person’s heart. (John 2:23-24) What does trusting people look like? […]

How much is society influencing us?

In Intercultural Communication courses, continuums are taught. One continuum is individualistic versus collectivistic. In its extreme, an individualistic culture has the reputation of being filled with individuals that share this attitude: “As long as I am doing okay, that is all that matters.” In its extreme, a collectivistic culture reflects: “A decision can’t be made […]

Where do your prayers go?

For the past few weeks, I have been leaving work most days and driving to a hospital to spend time with a loved one. Thankfully, those hospital stays ended Friday, but I want to tell you about an element of hospital life that was very meaningful to me. The family member I was visiting kept […]

Are we missing the lovely bits of life?

I had brunch with a friend last week on her birthday. We haven’t talked in years and it was lovely to catch up. Like me, she is a lover of words. She shared that during a New Year’s Eve service at her church in 2022, the message included the phrase “lovely bits” of life. She […]

Grief is a Lifelong Journey

36 years ago yesterday… October 29, 1986, I attended the funeral of my brother, Dan. I blogged a few weeks ago about attending a funeral of a 24 year old son of a friend. I watched a sister speak at her brother’s funeral. I know a piece of what she felt. I have also been […]