Why do humans often want to create a world of “us” vs. “them”? And what can we do about this unhelpful, often damaging, yet somehow reassuring instinct? Psychiatrist Robert Waldinger has some useful advice. Remember the thrill of building walls as a kid? Forts made from snow, or a giant cardboard box. Burying ourselves in... Continue Reading →
This month we celebrate the fifteenth anniversary of the horrendous terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. As I have been reflecting on what happened and how it impacted me, I cannot help but think about some of the famous lines connected to our country: “Land of the free and home of the brave.”, “One nation... Continue Reading →
We are about to elect a new president, while such elections are usually somewhat difficult and stressful, this election cycle seems to be particularly stressful, even more so for those of faith. I have had several people ask me what to do in this election in which both of the major candidates seem to them... Continue Reading →
Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes Five hundred twenty-five thousand moments oh dear Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes How do you measure, measure a year? In daylights, in sunsets In midnights, in cups of coffee In inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife In five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes How... Continue Reading →
Physical touch is important to our lives, we were created to touch and be touched. In times of grief, we console loved ones with a hug, a kiss, or simply by holding hands. In times of illness, we soothe with a kiss on the forehead, or holding hands. In times of stress, we relax with... Continue Reading →
There are very few things in human civilization that are as universal as gift giving, almost every culture values gift giving and uses gifts to express a variety of meanings. Gifts are used to express regret and remorse, to express joy, festivity, and celebration, and perhaps most importantly a loving bond between two people. For... Continue Reading →
"Of two evils, choose neither." Charles Spurgeon In this year’s U.S. presidential election there is a first, the candidates put forward by the two major political parties have disapproval ratings above 50%. No matter which of these candidates gets elected over half of the country will be dissatisfied, AMAZING! Disapproval ratings means the people who... Continue Reading →
In John 13 Jesus is approaching the end of his ministry and is giving his disciples his final instructions. Jesus begins this final set of instructions with a very physical and very humbling illustration, he takes off his “good clothes” and wraps himself with a towel to perform the work often delegated to a very... Continue Reading →
So many are familiar with the classic film The Princess Bride; a wonderfully romantic film, and a perfect choice to watch on St. Valentine’s day. Among the more memorable scenes in the film is the climactic scene between Inigo Montoya and the six-fingered man (Count Rugen). Inigo as he is fighting with the count repeats... Continue Reading →
Many are familiar with Horatio Spafford’s life and the story behind his wonderful hymn “It is Well with My Soul” (for a brief history see here). The song was written in response to the news that his four daughters had drown on their way to England. I cannot imagine penning the words, “When peace, like... Continue Reading →
Squinting in the Light 