Can you imagine this season without light? Light is the essence of Christmas, illuminating the birth of Christ and drawing us into its message of hope, love, peace and joy. It’s no surprise that light is in many holiday traditions:…
Blessings of the pandemic
I know, what is she thinking?! In the season of giving thanks, let’s look back at the last two years and acknowledge that some of the changes, unbelievably, resulted in gratitude. The list will likely surprise us. I’ll go first…
‘These are not your people’
Meeting up with good friends recently, we all hugged and chatted about changes in our lives during the tumultuous pandemic. Everyone, of course, contributed with updates. At one point, I shared that a decision we made didn’t seem to be…
Some seasons of life help us gain perspective
“Write for your audience” is the golden rule for professional communicators. In education, for example, our division crafted speeches, news releases, fact sheets, memos and reports to the state Legislature, employees, board members, students and parents, each from a different…
Advice from a sunflower
In the early morning, I watch their golden faces from my kitchen window. Often, I whisper a prayer for those in Ukraine. It’s hard to believe it’s been almost six months. “Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot…
Learning from Alma Woodsey Thomas how to find beauty within, around and through life
Are you searching for new skills needed to navigate life these days? The familiar paths were linear and logical, and too often, they go nowhere. Many feel they’re walking a labyrinth in the shadows. Imagine that circular shape and come…
Create in me a clean heart
We cringe to see the result of hate and anger in the world: bullying, mudslinging, demeaning, plotting, scheming, lying and worse. I’ve become aware of its increasing popularity and the draining, negative effect on my spirit. It’s easy to get…
Will we be silent as stones or voices of light?
It’s a common dilemma nearly every day: You’re having a conversation and you suddenly pause, take a deep breath and count to 10, thinking, “Should I say anything?” While the question floats in space like a cloud, you know your…
Spring hats, strength and sisterlocks
Special occasions like Easter, spring teas and mature weddings find many women shopping for hats. I’ve lived all my life in Northern California and love wearing hats to these events. But I’m definitely in the minority here. If you’ve ever…