Collectively and individually, the world and its people move through cycles of darkness and light. We do this daily with the passing of day into night. We do this monthly with the waxing and waning of the moon. And we also do this twice a year as the sun’s motion in declination marks the winter and … Continue reading
The New Year is approaching and with it come the inevitable list of goals and resolutions. These lists are usually about doing more, being more and accomplishing more. In some respects, that’s all well and good, but some of the mental and emotional baggage we hold onto make it difficult for our resolutions to carry … Continue reading
Do you know someone who is doing a great job? A friend, co-worker, teacher, or other community helper who has gone above and beyond? Maybe someone who has prevailed despite difficult circumstances? Or during this busy holiday season, someone in the service industry – a salesperson or restaurant server – who has gone the extra mile … Continue reading
My husband and I are both involved in church ministry. He co-leads a Sunday evening service at The Well, a new worshiping community here in Atlanta, and I facilitate spiritual formation groups and classes. Year-round, no matter the season or the holiday, prayers are always needed and requested. Polls have shown that 75% of Americans believe … Continue reading
Are visions of sugarplums dancing in your head? As I write this, my daughter is dancing joyfully in the kitchen to Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker Suite,” her enthusiasm no doubt fueled by some treats from her classroom holiday party earlier today. Celebrate the magic and sweetness of this season with a treat, something to warm and lift … Continue reading
So much of the negativity and tension we experience throughout the year – and during the holidays – has to do with what we say and hear from others. In the age of digital media, it has become so commonplace for people to post, tweet or video whatever they want, without considering the social, emotional … Continue reading
Did you know that over 36 million people – including 13 million children – experience hunger or the risk of hunger in the United States? That means that more than one in ten households in your community are having difficulty putting food on their table or in their bellies each day. Some of those people … Continue reading
So many times in life, we walk in darkness. Advent is the promise that our time in darkness will end, and the light of the world will shines upon us again. We light the candles of hope, love, peace and joy each Sunday during Advent to remind ourselves that life-affirming light is always within reach, … Continue reading
One of the best things about Advent and the holiday season is the opportunity to delight in the spectacle of warm lights and bright color all around us, especially as the days get shorter and colder. Everything right now is glittery, glitzy and over-the-top. Magical moments are everywhere you look. I love that more of … Continue reading
Do you know someone who is going through a tough time right now? Maybe he is struggling with a relationship or family issue. Or she was laid off and in the process of trying to find a new job. Perhaps it’s a student cramming to get through finals and finish papers for the semester. And … Continue reading
