Personal Zones

Often I struggle to figure out the solution to a problem with no success. Then at night, I awake from a sound sleep with the solution so clear in my mind, and I wonder why I couldn't figure it out. … Read more

Discipline

We are a pet family. Those who are too will know what I am talking about. Most of our lives, we have had pets — inside or outside, depending on where we lived. All of our children have at least … Read more

A Throwaway Society

Two years ago when the local YMCA had its grand opening after renovation, a lovely cement planter was placed at the entrance filled with shrubs, smaller blooming plants, and vines, creating a lovely spot of beauty for those going in … Read more

Pastor's Kids

Bringing up kids is no easy task. Bringing up kids whose parents are in the ministry can be daunting. When the Committee on Ministry interviewed me for the position at Erin, one of the elders asked me what family devotions … Read more

Keeping Score

When my children were growing up, the church we attended had a points system. There was a medal for three months' perfect attendance, another for six months' perfect attendance, and at the end of the year, a third medal and … Read more

Buster

Buster was a great dog. We had him from the time he was about nine months old until last summer, when he died at almost 13 years. He was very shy, but after attending obedience training, he grew into a … Read more

Dredging

Things in my work world are constantly in a state of flux. We restructure year on year on year. My managers fret when I confirm that I am able to do what they ask but that I am unwilling to … Read more

Evil Rides A Bike

Several years ago on a sunny summer afternoon, a few friends and I were walking along the waterfront, enjoying the sights and sounds. There were all kinds of activities going on: kids playing in the playground, seniors sitting on benches, … Read more