In our wintry months, it seems that the sun rises too late and sets too early. We arise to our daily work in the dark, and return home in the dark, slipping into sadness. The business of the world trudges on, though, as we slog through …( read more )

"Consider it pure joy…" "And what's this?" asked my husband, as I handed him a platter of apple slices. He wasn't pointing to the fruit, but to the wiggly creature which had obviously escaped from it. The poor thing looked lost and …( read more )

When we hear about other people going through hardship in a noble way, it can actually be a source of encouragement for us. First, we sympathize with their situation and offer help. But it can also make us think, "If they can do it, so …( read more )

I'm living the new normal! No one said that life was easy, and honestly, this journey without my husband is anything but easy! However, Christ encourages us with these words: As I travel this road alone, yet not alone, I give thanks for …( read more )

Regardless of where she went, she couldn't find comfort. Leah and her husband were never apart. They even volunteered at the same place after they retired. Both appeared to be in good health, so you can imagine Leah's shock when her …( read more )

In 1973, there was a perceived crisis: a shortage of crude oil. We were told to conserve fuel, to drive less, and to share rides. In the Netherlands, where we were living at the time, we were given gasoline coupons, which enabled us to buy …( read more )

When push comes to shove, I'd prefer a life without the growing of pearls around my grit. I'd just like the grit to be gone so that I can rest a while without looking for what is next. My conscience is the place where there is nearly …( read more )

It was a regular day at home. As I went about my usual activities, the doorbell rang. I made my way to answer the ring. What a surprise! A policeman stood before me. Thoughts were racing through my mind: "Why would this policeman be here? …( read more )

It is said that we have only a brief time — minutes or even seconds — to make a good first impression. That may be true, but it is also true that we are continually making impressions, positive or negative, that last for a long time, …( read more )

I was hired on a short-term contract to catalog a prison library in a federal penitentiary with an inmate crew to help me. The men lived in the cell block that my husband guarded. "Anything that you tell me will go straight to him," I …( read more )