Imagine the face of the family dog, caught red-pawed doing something that it knows is wrong, rolling eyes, hunched shoulders, tail tucked between its legs, all signs of guilt and an anxious pup! It's funny to watch; it makes me laugh, even … Read more
While helping my elderly mother clear out her house, I came across two precious items belonging to her own father, who passed away before I was born. A small black leather case, well worn, holds a set of opera glasses, made in Rochester, … Read more
How often have I been captivated by the masked man, the man of mystery, in stories and film? The Man in the Iron Mask was reputed to be the wrongly imprisoned heir to the throne of France, and was restored to his reign by the Three … Read more
Do you ever feel like giving up on the Christian life, as if God doesn't hear your prayers, or even care? Growing up in a Presbyterian church in Ottawa, Canada, I learned a lot about prayer. I memorized the Lord's Prayer in Sunday School, … Read more
As two weary years of COVID-19 restrictions and limitations on in-person worship for our churches have dragged on, how we groaned inwardly and longed for those heavy storms to pass! My own church in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, sought to … Read more
We live in interesting, often disturbing times. In my city of Ottawa, Canada, we have witnessed an unsettling and often astounding protest in our downtown core by truckers and their supporters, loudly demanding freedom from all pandemic … Read more
Gazing at a favourite painting can bring feelings of joy and pleasure, bringing back good memories of a happy time in our lives. Perhaps, the painting holds significance for our family, or maybe, we just like the colours. As an artist, I … Read more
Is there anything cuter than a chuckling baby — happy, curious, and squealing with delight with every new toy? A baby exudes love, trust, and dependence to everyone in the room — often being the centre of attention. But how quickly the … Read more
A beautifully crafted stained-glass window is a marvel to see. Warm, clear sunlight streaming through the coloured panes illuminates Bible people and stories. Often, the figures are angels, with adoring faces and luminous robes, announcing … Read more
Decorating the Christmas tree is an integral part of the celebrations each year. I once helped out at a commercial Christmas tree farm near Ottawa, Canada, in December. It was an impressive operation: planting spruce, balsam fir, and pine … Read more