Look for the Helpers

Fred Rogers of Mr. Roger’s neighborhood fame once said, “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’” And he’s right. Two days after Thanksgiving I had the...

Gifts of Everlee

Sarah sat across from me at the restaurant. She looked stunning with her sunflower-colored scarf, her shiny gold earrings, and a necklace bearing Everlee’s name. She appeared so put together. I was honored that she would take time to meet with me and share her story....

The question behind the questions

Our pastor recently talked about how he is more curious about the questions behind what people actually ask out loud than the questions themselves. He was talking about faith-based conversations, but I experience the need to practice this discipline more often when...

Peanut Blossom Memories

From the time I was little girl, my mom made a cookie called Peanut Blossoms every Christmas. I don’t remember eating them at any other time of the year and so, even I don’t bring out this recipe except for Christmas. They are so delicious and the smell...

Changing (cough, cough) Family Traditions

Change a family tradition? You’ve got to be kidding. Wouldn’t it be easier to swim a snake-infested river? Climb an icy crag during a blizzard? Fly without an airplane? Adjusting a tradition that has been in a family for years sounds next to impossible, at least until...