Rilke wrote, “And now we welcome the new year. Full of things that have never been.” The observation seems quite simple at first. But then I notice the paradox of recognizing fullness where nothing exists. The coming year is suffused…
In 1863, amidst the American Civil War and during a time of great personal losses, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote the poem, “Christmas Bells,” from which this beautiful hymn is lifted: I heard the bells on Christmas dayTheir old familiar carols…
This Sunday, we’re celebrating Blue Christmas, honoring our emotional depths and complexities during the holidays. It ain’t all just fa-la-la-la-la. And we don’t have to try or pretend to make it so. I totally love Christmas — AND — I’ve…
I’m looking for positive omens. And I’m finding them everywhere. Many of you have already heard that Travis took a bad tumble down the stairs last Sunday. He broke both his tibia and fibula in a splintery way, needed surgery,…
One of my television indulgences lately is a show called “Found.” I think it was originally produced by the History Channel a few years back, but recently has made its way to streaming on Hulu. It’s not amazing. It’s over-produced…
It occurs to me that this title could sound a little edgy on Thanksgiving Day, when a breezier gratitude theme might be expected. So let me say, first of all: Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! I am so deeply grateful to you…
Getting sick last week totally messed up my rhythm and drive. I’d chosen my title two weeks ago when I was feeling enthusiastic and energized and looking forward to my gazillion personal commitments. I was inspired by this advice from…
I was at the optometrist’s office the other day, having a routine exam. I asked the doctor about my “floaters,” the little specks and smidgens that float around in my vision a lot of the time. I think most of…
We are all here on Earth to help others; what on Earth the others are here for, I don’t know. - W. H. Auden Most people enjoy feeling helpful. It’s just immensely satisfying to think that we’ve been supportive, exercised…
