Empty spaces

When someone dies, they leave a space. Sometimes, it is a small space, easily overlooked, that regrettably disappears without fanfare. Sometimes, it is an awkward emptiness. Those left behind gather around it, uncertain how to respond to the change. Family may talk about this void, collect mementos, and then busy themselves with other people and …

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Peace and a Pandemic: Lessons Learned in 2020

Was it really 5 years ago when the world stopped? We learned so much during our time of isolation. Unfortunately, I think we’ve already forgotten many of those lessons. We learned to make peace with peace. Empty streets and the emptying of public spaces made the whole world quieter. We learned to be ok with …

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The First Few Words of a New Year

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,    for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning;    great is your faithfulness.. Lamentations 3:22-23 The family laughed over breakfast about the first bacon of the new year, the first text message, the first football game, etc. Each was followed by a daughter’s very good imitation of a trumpet …

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Savoring the Season

For God alone my soul waits in silence; from Him comes my salvation. Psalm 62:1 Until just recently, porch pumpkins and Christmas cheer coexisted on our front porch. Unlike most of my neighbors and friends, I do not rush into the Christmas season. I like to ease into the idea, not unlike savoring the last of the Thanksgiving stuffing and gravy. This is how I’ve always done things, so this pause didn’t really strike …

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As Spring Unfurls

California typically rushes through spring in its frantic dash to summer. Bulbs bloom in February and are gone. Trees bloom and leaf at the same time. If you want to see wildflowers, you better not blink.This year, however, is very different. For the first time in many years, a cool wet spring is unfurling slowly.Buds form and pause, teasing us with what is to come. Wildflowers paint the landscape with wide brushstrokes of yellow, orange, purple. Bulbs – some of them …

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