life – Matters of the Heart

The Spirit of ’76 Through Today: A Personal Perspective

1976 vs 2026sparklers in front of a large crowd and burning Capitol building

When I was younger, I believed our leaders wanted the best for everyone and that we were always trying to improve, no matter the political party. We weren’t blue versus red or Democrat versus Republican, we were Americans. I don’t see that kind of leadership now. And this country is very divided along political views. How can we ever get back to those times when we felt hopeful and safe, even if things weren’t perfect?

How indeed. The only answer I have, that I repeat to others, is

Vote blue or lose.

Ripple Effects

The lifejackets that prevent people from drowning may be the minor ripple effects of kindness we each send across the lakes and ponds of life. I am only one person, but I intend to send positive vibrations that ripple towards others. If you join me, we can generate multiple ripples and create a wave of protection for ourselves and others.

Transforming Thoughts with Creative Metaphors

Things can always be described in a straight line to get to a point, but with a metaphor, your brain detours to a pivot point called “ah ha.” Metaphors make us think about things from a different perspective.

Hope

I don’t particularly like that we are living in history-making times. But here we are. When tough times have historically challenged us, people like you and me have made a difference.

Wilderness of our Spirits

We all experience difficult periods where life and our spirits feel like a barren wilderness. Times when where we are physically or emotionally, is not an easy place to be. The stings of life’s scorpions come at us from multiple directions.

Advent Waiting

I am not living as though I am actively waiting for Jesus’ return. Are you? I mean, what would that look like? Standing outside, watching the clouds to see if they part hoping to have the first glance? Do I really think, it’s going to be the United States area he’ll show up first?

Hope Flutters Within Us Like A Soft Feather

In his book, Where is God when it Hurts?, Philip Yancey says this about hope: Hope means simply the belief that something good lies ahead. It is not the same as optimism or wishful thinking, for these imply a denial of reality….hope resembles courage more than cheerfulness. It involves a leap, much like faith. IContinue reading “Hope Flutters Within Us Like A Soft Feather”