Fourth of July: the words alone create images in our minds of red, white, and blue; hot dogs and barbecues; fireworks and parades. We see the words “freedom” and “independence” on signs, home décor, and tee-shirts. Indeed, we are celebrating the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which stated that the thirteen colonies were now a new nation, the United States of America, and no longer a...
Happy Mother’s Day to every mother, grandmother, and spiritual mother. To every woman who shares her life with another, in whatever form it may take, you make a difference. This may be, of course, a very different kind of Mother’s Day for all who are unable to gather together with loved ones and celebrate “Mom.” It may be a very painful day for a number of reasons, and you who may be grieving...
We are officially in the Christmas season! But first, how was your Thanksgiving? Did your day go just as you pictured? Mine didn’t! The night before I thought everything was running according to schedule, until Thanksgiving morning when I awoke to the realization that I had messed up, fallen short, and was let down (by myself!). I had forgotten to place three freshly made side dishes...
As I stood at the kitchen sink, complaining about having to cut each individual grape in half and removing each of its tiny seeds, I thought, “I wasn’t the one who accidentally bought grapes with seeds, so why do I have to be the one who’s so inconvenienced?!” As I grew more annoyed with the tedious task set before me, my thoughts turned towards the upcoming holiday: Thanksgiving. My attitude...
It has been said, “The things you take for granted, someone else is praying for.” What a thought to consider! How easily we take for granted that which has become commonplace in our lives. Even more tragic, however, is when we take His promises, His provisions, and His mercies for granted! Oh, may He open our eyes to see His abundant grace all around us, thus causing our...
As I stood at the kitchen sink, complaining about having to cut each individual grape in half and removing each of its tiny seeds, I thought, “I wasn’t the one who accidentally bought grapes with seeds, so why do I have to be the one who’s so inconvenienced?!” As I grew more annoyed with the tedious task set before me, my thoughts turned towards the upcoming holiday: Thanksgiving. My...
It’s the first week of the New Year! This is the time we are told to get serious about our goals and resolutions! According to a recent study, about 60% of us make resolutions, but only 8% are successful in achieving them! The top three resolutions should be of no surprise: Diet or eat healthier Exercise more Lose weight As I get older, I appreciate the importance of healthy eating and exercise....