Life Soundtrack

A few years ago, my friend, Cathy S. mentioned a friend of hers who had created a Life Soundtrack. This woman selected songs for special moments in her life. Then, she wrote short “liner notes” to provide some background on why the song or the occasion was significant.   There seem to be no new ideas…

Calling the circle — redux

Having a gym membership doesn’t make you fit.Going to a garage doesn’t make you a car.Attending church doesn’t make you religious. For many people, religion is a significant aspect of their identity, representing the group with which they feel kinship and the people with whom they spend time. Religion can provide a path that helps us…

Be SMART about your goals

When I started grad school, I looked at what courses were required to obtain my desired degree. I could choose any that were available, looked interesting, and worked with my schedule. Once enrolled, I downloaded an instructor-designed syllabus. This document laid out due dates for readings, assignments, research papers, and exams. A student looking to…

Common good

After a COVID hiatus, some things are reopening and getting back to a semblance of normal, including one of my ministry commitments. At the entrance to the facility where I volunteer, a poster indicated two mask-wearing selections — optional for those vaccinated and mandatory for those unvaccinated.* Clear and simple, right? A short time later,…

A circle of women

While on retreat with members of my spirituality group, we celebrated the courage and commitment of Mary Magdalene. The gospel of John (20:1-18) tells this story: Following the crucifixion, Mary Magdalene went to Jesus’ tomb and saw it was empty. She ran back and told the other disciples, who headed to the burial ground. The…