In a recent pickleball clinic the coach told us that we if we found ourselves at the kitchen line "banging" with our opponents (meaning, a fast exchange) and losing control of the point, we needed to reset. In all racket sports, this word is important. In tennis, it might mean hitting a defensive lob or... Continue Reading →
BEHOLD!
Here in South Florida many homes have a sliding glass door leading from the interior of the home to a screened-in lanai. The other night, my husband invited me to sit with him in the lanai. Though it was a beautiful evening, I am not the best at being still and quiet. And I could... Continue Reading →
Walking by Faith
My grandson is learning to walk. As he toddles forward, he pauses every few steps to clap for himself. He is also fond of holding a yellow microfiber cloth while walking, as one never knows when the floor might need cleaning. For me, the funniest sight is when he drops the cloth and tries to... Continue Reading →
Our Inner Emily and How to Live in the Present
My eighth grade English teacher had us read the play, Our Town by Thornton Wilder. Mr. Greco was trying to teach us how to identify the theme, or the author’s message - that which lies beyond the mere retelling of a plot. My thirteen year-old brain, which up to this point had leaned toward Betty... Continue Reading →
Even Though’s and Yet’s
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death... Even though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea... Even though a host encamp against me... OK, I am not keen on ANY of these circumstances befalling ANY of us. And I am certainly opposed to being thrown into a... Continue Reading →
Living Bigger
"I think I ruined my friend's retirement plan," the speaker joked. "My friend had been aggressively planning for the day when he could quit his job and do nothing but play golf. Now, I love golf. But how much golf can you actually play? I decided to challenge his plan. So, when you get to Heaven,... Continue Reading →
The Allure of “Big Things”
In our younger years we imagine Big Things. Publishing a book - followed by a book tour. Securing promotions and sizable salaries. Becoming competent in a field with initials after our name. Alleviating poverty, improving literacy, advocating for the downtrodden. Magnificent marriages and perfect parenting -- our children "rising up and calling us blessed" (a... Continue Reading →
Shadows and Shelters 