Reshaping history teaches no lessons
This year, we will celebrate the founding of our nation, and it promises to be great fun! Flags will be flying, bands will be...
Graveyards are not Spooky
You might think I'm unusual, but I truly enjoy visiting graveyards. They aren't spooky at all; instead, they offer a glimpse into the past...
Whose side are we on?
“Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always...
The unselfish gift
As the Christmas season comes to a close, I often feel a little down when all the planning, decorating, and celebrating have ended. Afterward,...
Finding the perfect JOY
It was the beginning of December, and it was time to hang my old Christmas wreaths on my windows and front door. Once finished,...
Mighty Mollie’s lasting gift
John Sparks, my great-grandfather, died suddenly in December 1907 due to a sawmill accident. His wife, Mollie, was in the midst of preparing Christmas...
Keep the childlike wonder
Santa is on his way! I am sure happy the government shutdown is over so the air traffic controllers can navigate his sleigh!
As a...
Understanding Thanks and Giving
As I prepare for Thanksgiving, I realize I need a few essential items for my cornbread dressing—starting with, of course, cornbread! I also need...
Waiting, waiting, and waiting more
It is November 8th, and I am sitting in a Seattle airport lounge on a beautiful Saturday afternoon, waiting to fly home. Thanks to...
The true patriots
True patriotism cannot be reduced to a sound bite or used to define a political leader, party, or group. It means loving your country...
Overcome evil with hope
Anne Frank wrote on July 15, 1944, “In spite of everything, I still believe that people are really good at heart.”
Anne would die from...
Jessie, Uga, and Halloween
It was a perfect Halloween night in South Florida, a warm and balmy evening that felt nothing like our typical autumn. My then nine-year-old...