Easter has come, but it’s not gone! The meaning of this incredible event includes a life-renewing invitation, perhaps directed at those of us who are fully vaccinated: “Can you come out to play?” Given all that we’ve been through this past year, “play” may seem like too strong a word for how we might live now. Fun and frivolity may feel like empty-headed avoidance of reality. Over thisMORE...
This entry can be classified as personal privilege, one of those times when a writer sets aside conventions and the normal odor of things in order to add the fresh air of personal greetings to what would otherwise seem to be generic thoughts. This blog is not about any subject. If there was a file folder holding the following thoughts, it might be labeled, “Every time I think of you, I thank myMORE...
At whatever age—but perhaps especially in old age—mourning can comprise a substantial part of our daily thoughts. The writer of Psalm 30 offers a helpful observation: “Joy comes in the morning.” Psalm 30:5) At this time in our lives, this can be especially comforting. As we may have experienced into these later years, though, not every morning brings joy. Our days may begin with somethingMORE...
Many items in our homes—appliances, automobiles, toys, structures, systems, furniture— may be poised at the edge of a sudden breakdown. Rust grows and corrodes; tiny internal parts fracture; elements burn out or mysterious materials stop working. In many cases, we have no warning about an impending breakdown, and so are surprised when a fuel pump stops working, a pipe bursts, a roof leaksMORE...
Here’s a personal question: Has anyone ever told you that it’s good when you’re silly? If YES, you’re likely surrounded by people who understand the original meanings of this term in Old English, Norse and German: blessed, happy, prosperous, blissful, of good mood or kindhearted. In those earlier versions of personified hilarity (joyfulness), being silly was a mark of good character. A sillyMORE...
Let me be direct: You should see this film, or wait for it to appear in the listings of streaming services to which you subscribe. The title, “Maudie” names the film’s primary character, Maud Lewis, someone with unnamed physical disabilities whose soul is full of spunk, empathy and love. The plot—based in the life story of this remarkable woman—follows her journey to self-reliance and lifeMORE...
BOB SITZE has filled the many years of his lifework in diverse settings around the United States. His calling has included careers as a teacher/principal, church musician, writer/author, denominational executive staff member and meat worker. Bob lives in Wheaton, IL.