(For Dana) T.S. Eliot wrote that April is the “cruellest month.” Not for me. I find it’s barren February, with its unkind cold, and in which month I have known too many men of character who have died recently, and long past. At 6’7” with a perpetual mustache, bright blue eyes, and a voice like a thunderclap, Boyd Salsbury cut an imposing profile. His demeanor was gruff, his words carefully … [Read more...]
Picture This
When something heartbreaking happens in our life we may start to experience some shame. Especially if we thought we could have done something to prevent it from happening. Whether you are a new special needs parent or you’ve been on the journey a while shame always loves to come knocking. The enemy loves to build a wall of shame and put our pictures on it. Every time we see that wall, he wants to … [Read more...]
I Can Teach You How to Fly!
Standing at the opening of the labyrinth on the grounds of Mt. Olivet Retreat Center, I stretch my arms outward. “Come, Holy Spirit. Show me what to write this week.” A flash in the sky draws my eyes upward. Just above me, riding a wind current, soars a Cooper’s hawk. The words come, unbidden: “I can teach you how to fly.” It’s not the first time I’ve heard these words from the … [Read more...]
Protect Our Children, Lord
Do you have fears for your children? What do you worry about or think about daily? Is there something more on your mind that bothers you about the future of your child? *Mature material included in this blog I have a confessional. One of the things I think about the most and have the most thoughts about is protecting my son Charlie. I mean protecting Charlie from others who want to take … [Read more...]
God, Thy Will is hard some days
Why is it that some days everything just seems to flow? Positive energy is everywhere. It keeps you motivated and fills you with an unshakeable feeling that life is truly good. And, why is it that some days everything good can disappear in a heartbeat, despite your diligence and attention to doing what you think are all the right things? Take, for instance, last week. Jan and I … [Read more...]
Unto Us a Child Is Born
For the first time in many years, my husband and I are greeting the coming of the Christ Child in the presence of a baby. Our sweet grandson is almost 10 months old, and we are oohing and aahing over every new task he masters. Hand-clapping. Feeding himself and making a mess. Drinking from a sippy cup. Creeping and crawling across the carpet for the first time. The wonder of Christmas … [Read more...]