Theo is a “prescriptive” character, the author explains, who “gives us a way to use our days well, and that is to fill them with little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and love, and just to keep doing the same…
A new year of being light and love
The message of stars — so far away, or are they? Stars draw us to the light in dark days, especially now. Exchanging letters, cards and words of hope means more than ever. I’d like to share some creative thoughts…
Storytelling as creative resistance
I have no doubt that the daily drama of American crises is causing a lot of art to be created — and viewed. “Our truest response to the irrationality of the world is to paint or sing or write, for…
Metanoia and your spiritual journey
April traditionally arrives with images of rebirth — an empty tomb, the sight of unfolding lilies, reading familiar words of promise. The vision of hope springs up, bringing encouragement to our weary souls. This year between frantic breaking news, waving…
Circles of joy
There’s always a story behind designing a holiday card. For me, it’s a spiritual experience in itself, and I anticipate learning about Christmas and the beauty of the season with a fresh vision from God. Looking back, every year I’ve…
Yes, truth matters
As one who writes and creates with words, fact-checking and truth are second nature. Double-checking credible sources brings us closer to understanding the issue. Unlike writing a diary, I aim to reach the reader and make a connection. Well-chosen words…
On faith and gardening
One of the most flourishing post-pandemic interests is gardening. And the season is upon us. “Show me your garden and I’ll tell you who you are.” — Alfred Austin, English poet laureate, wrote in the 1800s. My own garden would…
Embracing what’s sacred
As spring rain drizzles outside, I’m thinking about Easter worship and the increasing numbers of Christians (and pastors) who are leaving church. The statistics have become a modern fact of life and aren’t as shocking as they once were. For…
Museums are society’s stewards of culture, creativity and storytelling
Have you noticed how museum exhibitions, like everything else, have changed? As a creative person, I’ve quietly observed this for years while visiting museums on the West Coast. Big changes were a topic of conversation recently at Crocker Art Museum…
Living as pilgrims to know Jesus better
Being a pilgrim increasingly seems to fit many life chapters. I’m not speaking of “the” Pilgrims of Plymouth Rock, but as anyone who makes a journey, often to a foreign land, on a quest for spiritual renewal. Many who have…
Creating inner peace
Last week I heard “therapy” mentioned on Zoom meetings, but not for the usual life dilemmas. The reason was generalized anxiety, a lack of inner peace. “I just need to learn new skills to live in this chaotic world now,”…
A tough mind and a tender heart
Recently a pair of mourning doves chose a high shelf on the front of our home to build their nest. They flew back and forth for days, twigs in their beaks, cooing excitedly. When the delicate construction was complete, it…