Monthly Archives: December 2021

A teacher quizzed her students with a written test, in which she asked, “What came before 2021?”  A child responded, “2020.”  Then she asked, “Give me one word that describes life today?”  Another student wrote, “Hell!” Okay, today is December … Continue reading →

Let everything happen to you: beauty and terror. Just keep going. No feeling is final– Rainer Maria Rilke Austrian poet Rainer Maria Rilke wrote these words in his poem “Go to the Limits of Your Longing,” in which he expresses … Continue reading →

The theme this morning: Why do we wait? This morning as I read the wonderful tributes to the life of John Madden, who died yesterday at 85, it hit me.  How the loveliness of a person [yes, that’s apt, even … Continue reading →

I do focus upon what the bananas look like—not too green or full yellow.  I also affirm the HEB employees who load their big carts for curbside delivery. But, today there was a moment I cherish…and truth, just happened to … Continue reading →

I admit:  managing times of need is multiple choice.  Some examples: A friend is in Big Bend, western Texas, who described the morning: The veil between heaven and earth is very thin here in Big Bend.   Managing need is never … Continue reading →

It is Christmas morning second day, on a journey to Epiphany [Festival of Lights].  When I saw this affirmation about how to live I think of my doctoral theology teacher Doug Meeks.  It was 1987 when the degree was granted.  … Continue reading →

I don’t know if it was one very particular moment…a couple come to mind…when the full reality on special days is never forgotten nor neglected.  This comes to mind…when within one month after being ordained, August, 1966, I was called … Continue reading →

I remember, long ago and even recently, how prime rib dinner was a prime favorite for Christmas dinner…to which point, a comment:

It started in the Denver Airport.  Diane and I were changing planes on our Portland to Austin route.  Lots of travelers…about 8 years ago.  Lots of plane delays.  I looked at a lady sitting on the floor.  Then.  My eyes … Continue reading →

122221 Someone gave these numbers a name…the numbers will never be repeated. I am aware of the calendar…even had the optimism, perhaps deeper a hope, that setting my next cardiologist appointment for next July, means I’ll be able to keep … Continue reading →