For as long as I can remember back? This first day of the fair was always the day we took off. At first, I started inviting and asking people to join us, like Mimi, Dad, or friends — but it always ended up being just “me and my gang.” So I stopped asking and left…
Most of us have experienced grief and loss in this life that, at least at the time, we felt like we would never overcome. The intrusive and unpredictable tidal waves of emotions that grief can bring vary from person to person. Still, I was sure that my early childhood and young adult experiences with grief…
It’s a new year, and the “new year, new you” messaging is everywhere. But for once, I am not going to be sucked into the New Year’s resolution hype. Instead, I’m opting to do something I never thought I’d do: I’m boycotting New Year’s resolutions in 2023 — and I think you should too. I…
The eight-year-old zipped past me, confidently swooping down the hill, sitting up straight on her bike, with the bows at the ends of her braids flying. It was a humbling experience to be 41 years old and just learning to ride a bike. It was something I thought I would never be able to do. I…
I never wanted to be a teacher. For far too long, I believed the adage that those who can’t do, teach. Besides, in first grade, I had trouble learning to read and got a nervous bellyache at just the thought of being in a classroom. Why would I want to be a teacher when school literally…
When we got home after our sons died, we walked through the front door with empty arms and shattered hearts. All we had left was a blue box. We were told it included memories of our sons that the nurses had prepared. It was supposed to help us with the grief that would overwhelm us…
“I’ve learned that we need to examine closely the seeds planted in childhood; those early dreams might be the best indicator of where we can find life and fulfillment now.” When I was in the fourth grade, my dream was to become a writer. That year, I won a story writing contest. My piece…
I NEVER thought I would be a worship leader. I taught myself to play guitar in high school, drawn to the acoustic sound and romantic images of songs strummed by the campfire. As I mastered more chords, I would occasionally play for a small bible study group — but that was just a couple of songs…
For years, I had one rule when I went to amusement parks: NEVER go on the thrill-seeking, height-defying rides. Personally, I don’t like to feel terrified for the “fun” of it. Also, I have a propensity for motion sickness and an inherited curvature of my spine, held firm by a large metal rod. My body can’t take…
Up until the start of 2015, I never could have imagined that the three members of my little family would each be living in a different city for nearly two years. My daughter had just turned 16, my husband had a good job, and I had a nice daily routine. Then she was introduced (not…