Break Free
While touring the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus, a man noticed that only one small rope (meager in size, tied to one front leg only) was holding each elephant. There were no chains, no cages. Mature elephants could, at…
The invitation to thrive
“How is your heart?” I was asked this week.It made me stop. And think. And admit that I prefer, “Are you keeping busy?” because that question is easier to answer. In John’s Gospel, there is a wonderful story about a…
She’s a dancer
Teachers considered grade school student Gillian Lynne a problem child. You know, one of those students who don't pay attention. Or focus. Age 8 and unable to sit still, Gillian had earned the nickname Wriggle Bottom. This much was clear; Gillian didn't "fit in."…
A hidden treasure
“Do you have any idea who I am?” The man, a passenger, apoplectic with flushed cheeks, pounding the counter, shouting at the airline agent. Everyone in the departure lounge can hear, and is on edge. (Although, a few take out…
The Power of Presence
I spent this weekend with 39 thousand of my closest friends, in Anaheim California, at the Religious Education Congress. I have been a speaker there for over 30 years.This year, my topic; Permission to be me in a FOMO (fear…
I value you. You are worthy.
Never underestimate the power of affirmation.Every single one of us needs to hear these words, "I value you. You are worthy."I needed it this week. Hoosiers is a feel-good movie. Worth watching again and again. A David versus Goliath story…
Listen to your heart
I spent this past week tasting wine in Languedoc-Roussillon, in southern France. It’s not a bad way to spend a week. And, I did a lot of walking, giving me a good deal of time for cogitation and pondering. I…
Dare to be human
“Do you want a part in the Christmas nativity play?” James’ grade school teacher asked him.“Of course,” he answered. "You get to be Joseph," the teacher told him.James was proud, what with his friends having to be sheep and cows and such. "What are my lines?"…
The cost of becoming real
Loving costs a lot, but not loving always costs more. "Does it hurt?" the Rabbit asked the Skin Horse (about "becoming real"). "Oh yes," said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. "Sometimes it hurts a lot. But when you are…
Just let down your arms
There was a farmer who had a lot of fields, and he kept all the birds and creatures away from his crops with traps and fences. He was very successful. But he was also very lonely. So, one day, he stood…
