As we approach Mother’s Day, I am always aware of how this is a difficult day for some – those who have lost their mothers, those who haven’t had good relationships with their mothers, those who have chosen not to become mothers and too often face society’s questioning of their choices, those who would love … Continue reading Mothers & Other Stuff
joy
Ashes
Last night while my husband placed ashes on my forehead and the forehead of our 11-year old son and we contemplated our mortality, I cried. Someone once told my husband when our son was very tiny that it was cute when he placed ashes on his little forehead. My husband realized that they didn’t understand … Continue reading Ashes
Touching the Pain
My spiritual director had the room all set up for me when I arrived yesterday morning. There were small stones set around a candle on a low table in front of where I usually sit. Of course, I commented that it was different. She asked if she had my permission to push me a little … Continue reading Touching the Pain
Be Brave
My son and I went to the Carolina Renaissance Festival this weekend with some friends. It was incredible. Of course, any time I get to pretend I’m a princess is incredible – that’s been true since I was two years old! My child had a wonderful time too, but he did get kindly called out … Continue reading Be Brave
Now Playing: The Theo Tacos
I spent several days this month with a wonderful group of pastors exploring how improvisation – especially the skills learned for comedy improv – can also help us with spiritual formation. This is true in the church, where most of my colleagues are currently serving – and it is equally true for those of us … Continue reading Now Playing: The Theo Tacos
Don’t Yuck My Yum!
I learned many things at my conference at Columbia Theological Seminary’s “Yes, And: Improvisational Leadership in Times of Dizzying Change" conference. I learned a lot of improv skills. I learned how they relate to ministry, including my work in spiritual direction. And I learned that I both miss congregational ministry and am grateful to have … Continue reading Don’t Yuck My Yum!
Ups & Downs
I must admit that I am not riveted to the news broadcasts coming out of Las Vegas this morning after the horrific shooting there last night. Not because I don’t care, but because I care too much. I am aware that knowing a few facts are important – that there were people killed and injured, … Continue reading Ups & Downs
On a Journey
I’ve been packing my bags this morning for a quick trip out west for my niece’s wedding. Medicines, underwear, nice dress, t-shirts… oh, and don’t forget the swimsuit for the hotel pool. (I once took the top, but not the bottom of my two piece swimsuit. I now pack both the original and the one … Continue reading On a Journey
Where is God when I am Sad?
It’s been one of those blue kind of weeks. Maybe it’s because I’m coming down off of one of those mountaintop experiences of a ten day prayer retreat. Maybe it’s because my husband is out of the country and I miss talking with him about something heavy weighing on my mind. Maybe it’s because my … Continue reading Where is God when I am Sad?
Spiritual “Fawn”a
I’m not sure when I stopped lying on my back under leafy summer trees and watching the sun play through the green. When I moved to the south and it became so hot? When I received my first fire ant bite? When I thought I might be too old to get back up again with … Continue reading Spiritual “Fawn”a
Openings: Let the Spirit in 