Photo by Unsplash A profound stillness enveloped the room, a quiet that compelled her to pause and reflect. The gentle melody of the music played softly in the background, while the early morning light filtered through the window, casting a shadow across the small wooden table and her cherished cup of tea. The children clung …
Be Careful – Don’t Drink the Kool-Aid of Deception
Photo by Markus Kammermann on Unsplash Recently, I listened to a talk given by a man I believe to be solid in his faith, rational in his beliefs, well-educated, and a speaker of truth. He has authored several Christian books and is a respected teacher and preacher. He embodies the qualities I seek when trying …
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My Father’s Priceless Gift
Photo by Theo Laflamme on Unsplash My father passed away on my birthday. It’s always a little bittersweet – his passing and my living. He was a complex man, which made our relationship challenging. Don't get me wrong, I loved him dearly. But admittedly, there was a part of me that was also intimidated by him. It’s not …
Closed Doors
Photo by Lamsong Unsplash The start of a new year is always a special time for me. I take the opportunity to clean out drawers and cabinets, tossing out all the clutter that has accumulated — you know, the things you think you'll use but never actually do. I go through sock drawers and my …
Stay Focused
Photo by A. McCormick As a child, I remember my parents' words of encouragement, “Stay focused!” Stay focused when homework seemed impossible. Stay focused when a best friend became a distant acquaintance. Stay focused when normal childhood challenges threatened to defeat me. As a young woman, treasured teachers, mentors, and leaders advised me, “Stay the …
The Invitation
Photo by M. Watson The candles on the kitchen island are lit. They make the house smell like cinnamon and clove. The tree is decorated. Outside lights are hung, and the handmade manger graces the porch. Gifts have been shipped; amazingly, most have already reached their destinations. All that is left is baking for our …