As I sat on my front porch, I watched the kids play in the cul-de-sac. One black kid, two whites, and three Latinos — two girls, four boys. They squealed with laughter, ran in circles, kidded each other like typical children enjoying an autumn evening. Far from the murders caused by racism. Completely removed from […]
When Diversity Welcomes Hope Read More »
During a recent writing retreat, I taught a workshop about the word ‘Selah.’ Words are the tools of a wordsmith, but to create stories, we need to know what our words mean and how to properly use them. Especially in faith organizations, the word ‘Selah’ often surfaces. But no one actually knows its true meaning.
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As I drove up to the multi-storied house, the ‘Estate Sale’ sign reminded me of my mission. Look for something I could use at work — something that might bring encouragement to the women I coached: a pot of flowers, beautiful cards, a trinket to give away. What I did not expect to find was
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During a recent journey from Wichita to Kansas City, my check engine light came on. At the same time, I was nursing a painful hip from a surprise back injury while on vacation. Normally, I enjoy driving the open road. I slide in the CD of my favorite soundtrack, munch on a snack and sip
Life Measured in Micro Steps Read More »
My cyclamen bloomed a lovely fuchsia pink. But I bought it with the understanding that it would produce the dark eggplant purple I love. What a disappointing surprise as the blossoms opened and showed off their deep pink. But a few days later, the blooms started changing. With time, the cyclamen sported the purple I
Finding Our True Color Read More »
As an observer of the animal kingdom, my neighborhood provides plenty of reflective stimulation. Dogs, cats, hawks — even the occasional fox, raccoon, or skunk. But it is the feral cats that expand my thoughts about reflective living. What is it that cats do so well? Cats work. No apathy allowed in the world of
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As I drove home after meeting with a coaching client, I noticed a white van ahead of me. The logo of its business was printed across the back doors: “Faith Panting.” What? I blinked and adjusted my glasses, then realized the name was actually “Faith Painting.” Somehow the tiny ‘i’ had disappeared with my first
When I worked for a national organization of corporate chaplains, we often talked about the ministry of presence. Just being present with the person who was struggling. As our clients met challenges with grief, financial struggles, unemployment, or family dynamics — they needed someone to just show up and BE with them. To be present.
As we close in on another July 4th holiday, my mind and heart go to the importance of freedom. And with the topic — the options that represent security. When security officials train employees for active shooter situations, they present three options: Unfortunately, in our scary world, we need to be prepared to use these
Many of the people in my age demographic are downsizing. We refuse to buy more stuff. At the same time, we are looking through our current stuff and assessing how to best dispose of it. Although I am trying to be proactive and wise, I am still finding a strange pull to some objects: However,
Finding Hope in Our Stuff Read More »