What does it mean when people say, “I am spiritual, but not religious?” To you, does it seem trendy? Does it have any meaning at all? Is it sacrilegious? Or does it resonate? I recently heard a conversation between Krista…
Category: Spirituality
Sounds Like Kindness
I recently posted on my Facebook page the meme featured here with a quote by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. I added the question, “What do you think of this, friends?” A hearty conversation ensued. And I am generally quite…
3 Signs You Might Not Actually Believe in Hell
The list is below, but to start the convo, I invite you to first watch this 2 minute clip from Seinfeld: If you are a Christian, here are three signs that you MIGHT NOT actually believe in hell. (I…
The Pope behind the Pope of the Year: Paving the way to change
Like so many, I have been inspired and impressed by Pope Francis and his courage to challenge many of the practices of the papacy, and the traditions of the church. I often imagine him surrounded by people who say things…
Fatigue and Disappointment: 7 reasons I am grateful they exist in my life
12:09am. I was asleep, blissfully asleep. And then I awoke. Not to a noise or to a phone call—but to the sense of a burden. A few minutes later, my phone rang with disturbing news. Now one hour later, I…
How did you wake up?
I have previously made reference to the fact that the literal translation of the Luganda morning greeting is not “Good Morning,” but rather “How did you wake up?” It seems to me a strong metaphor for the moment in time—or…
How do you know what you know?
About a year ago, I wrote a blog post which I called “4 Things I’m Glad I Don’t Know for Sure.” I reflected on the wonder of faith, and the miracle of the unknown as it adds nuance and “magic”…
The Noise of Poverty; Understanding Its Power over Self & Other
As I transition from the “West” to Uganda—yet again—I am anticipating the different sounds in the lifescape. Some will welcome me, emoting joy and pleasure. Others will attack me in offensive ways, stirring negativity and frustration. Others will be processed…
Excerpts from my homily at Marge Murdock’s memorial service
Saturday, December 8, 2012. Camp Verde, AZ. “Through the miracle of faith, one can simultaneously experience grief at the end of a precious human experience, gratitude for the gift of engagement with a marvelous fellow spirit, and this glorious hope…
“The Elusive Image” (A 90-second read about drawing the impossible)
You have likely heard the story of a little girl who sat down to draw, and when her teacher asked what she was going to draw, she said, “I’m drawing a picture of God.” “But, honey, no one knows what…