“Now, you sound like your mom!” or “You’re pretty sharp for a country kid”. Do you easily utter opinions like these? Honest opinions, indeed, but perhaps considered slightly condescending. An article described Microaggression--opinions which names everyday slights, put-downs and subtle indignities that marginalized people have to deal with such…

The connection between confidence and limitations has become obvious as I wrangle with primary household care. When assuming disliked or new responsibilities, as many of you have experienced, the exposed limitations threaten confidence and independence. Job changes, promotions, births, moves, marriages, illnesses and losses of loved ones afflict all of…

All of us, at some time find ourselves in a storm of some type—weather-caused, poor decisions, losses of life, job, health, emotional, etc. Everyone, young and old alike, yearns for quick, relieving outcomes. Some storms are passing and inconsequential, while others are destructive, painful, and lingering, requiring extended recovery.…

A note from a blog-reader: You’ve said that many relationships start between opposites because those differences are intriguing. Then after 30 or 40 years of marriage, those differences can be viewed differently. What are your thoughts on making those differences more interesting and intriguing? Are there general concepts that…

Ruth, would you read a letter from my 13-year-old granddaughter, In California, and check my response to make sure I don’t miss anything? Kaylee is a loving, talented and sensitive young lady. Last year, before the Pandemic, we wrote ‘pen pal’ letters back and forth where I shared family…

Responding to Sharp Verbal or Written Exchanges Texting: “When you get a minute, call me”. Response text: “Why didn’t you just pick up the phone and call me; why did you resort to texting me?” Background: “My cousin hadn’t called as she usually does and I was concerned…

A variety of comments, texts and emails in response to How’d You Sleep inspired this “sleep-over” to fold in more wise aspects of sleeping, a major concern of life, nestled among healthy eating, regular exercise, communication, and meaningful purpose.  Imbedded in my memory of sleep-overs 70 some years ago…

Early in our ministry, I learned that a group of friends meeting for any reason, in about 20 minutes the conversation turns to spiritual matters. That was confirmed as a friend would prepare breakfast on a Saturday morning and invite ladies in the trailer park where they all lived but…

Carolyn, our dear friend for over 50 years died Tuesday, September 8, from cardiac arrest. After her daughter called, I could do nothing except cry. As I wrote in my journal that she was gone, I said aloud to myself “I need to let my sibs and kids know about…

“Who left the lid off the peanut butter jar?” “Couldn’t you read my note to turn the oven on?” “I’ve asked you several times to clean up this mess. Can’t you hear? Company arrives in less than an hour.” Does it take the wind out of your…