Do you remember that old children’s song? “There was an old lady who swallowed a fly. I don’t know why she swallowed a fly. I guess she’ll die.” The basic supposition — that this unfortunate ingestion will be fatal —…
My usual orientation to life is a big, juicy “Yes!” And most of the time, that’s my real preference. It’s an honest and soulful expression for me. There’s a lot of good in it, a lot to like. “Yes” feels…
Once upon a time, a carefree little wave was coursing through the open sea. The sun was shining overhead, and her surface shimmered with its golden reflections. The sky was clear and blue, with a light breeze and fluffy clouds…
I’ve always liked the Zen parable that says, “Before enlightenment, chop wood, carry water.” After enlightenment, chop wood, carry water.” Spiritual transformation changes everything. And… the work remains. We still have daily tasks and sometimes drudgery. Life can be darned…
I was visiting with a hospice patient last week, a very sweet lady who’s been on our service for over a year. She’s close to 100, easy-going and pleasant as can be, in no discomfort. Just slowly, slowly, slowly fading…
A couple of weeks ago, shortly after the death of great writer and nature lover Wendell Berry, The Atlantic published a sweet piece by Joe Fassler, entitled “Why Wendell Berry Didn’t Worry About the Future.” The article's writer explores a…
You know me, I’m a planner. I order, organize, and schedule everything I possibly can. If it isn’t nailed down, I’ll nail it down, doggone it. If I encounter anything up in the air, I won’t relax until it’s on…
Oh, my friends. Along with all of you and everyone, I’ve been grieving the passing of Dolly Parton. She left us on Tuesday, and the world seems a dimmer place without her. I've been trying not to think about her…
We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us.” — E.M. Forster The term “willy-nilly” means things happening in a disorderly or disorganized way, without…
A lawn sign appeared a few years ago, becoming a popular meme across the internet: Chinese characters with the quaint English transcription — “Do Not Disturb: Tiny Grass is Dreaming.” I don’t know if the translation is really accurate. I read…