The peach-colored gladiola greeted me each morning. Its bloom a reminder of summer days and the impressive creations of the Master Gardener. But within a week, the lower buds began to shrivel, then drop off. While the top of the stalk retained moisture and health, the bottom continued to degenerate. Yet even the dead blossoms …
In those foggy moments before the alarm rings and consciousness reminds me of the day ahead, I listen hard for the divine whisper. It is often in the early mornings when the meditations of my heart remind me that I am not alone. The treasure of Psalm 127:2 becomes reality, “God gives to his beloved …
Our family has suffered a tragedy, and we are all trying to process it. Last week, a favorite cousin suddenly had a cardiac arrest. No warning. Nothing wrong with her heart. Madeleine (a pseudonym to protect her privacy) was only 54 and in good health. She was bright, beautiful, a wonderful person with everything to …
When the transitions of life change our circumstances, it may become more difficult to discover hope. Recently, Mom transferred from assisted living to the Alzheimer’s unit. A necessary change, given her cognitive impairment. Still, for the family she no longer recognizes, it was a clear reminder of the devastation of this disease. Grateful for the …
So many photo albums. Boxes and boxes of memories from the beginnings of a life to the present. Photos of my son – even his birth certificate – preserved in plastic sleeves with descriptive tags to indicate his growth: 8 pounds, 3.5 ounces, 19.5 inches long. Preschool. Kindergarten graduation with a mortar board and tassel. …
“Your book is so intense.” Several readers have used this statement to describe my novel No Visible Scars. “Yes,” I answer. “This book IS intense. It’s supposed to be because of the topic.” Without the intensity, I would not be true to my characters or to the major plot lines of the story. The main …
Dear Deb, The book is finished. You would be so glad. If you were here, we would celebrate at a Mexican restaurant with fabulous guacamole. Plenty of chips. Constant refills. You would give me hugs and “I knew you could do it” words. Throughout our meal, I would be thanking you for pushing me, for …
Wasn’t it a wonderful experience to watch the documentaries and funeral service of Billy Graham? What an amazing spiritual leader! Several memes, posts and commentators spoke the words from Scripture, “Well done. Good and faithful servant.” Although I agree with that sentiment, especially for Billy, I struggle with the root of what that subject means. …
How can we reach deeper than the usual “thank you’s?” What does a heart of gratitude really feel like?
Does it matter what type of house we live in – especially when the walls scream memories and we never have a change to say good-bye.