What can we give thanks for? Two weeks ago today, the unthinkable happened. A seven-month-old died. In her sleep. The young mother had put her down for a nap. And hours later the twenty-year-old was being whisked from one authority to another. “You would think they could have at least waited to question her. It’s like they think she did … Read More
On Marital Discord, Part III: Tips for Staying Together in Spite of Strife
As far back as March, journalists began talking about a Maria/Arnold reunion. And a few days ago, HuffPost Celebrity reported that Maria was recently seen wearing what looks like a wedding band. Is she taking Arnold Schwarzenegger back?The headline teases. These thoughts simultaneously ran through my mind. Who cares? Just leave them alone. And yet, I find myself watching. Secretly … Read More
Don’t Be Afraid, I Want to Say; You Have Neighbors in Grief and Allies in Healing
Moonlit oceanon the eve of a storm “Here is the world. Beautiful and terrible things will happen. Don’t be afraid.” I recently stumbled across this Frederick Buechner quote. So poetic. So poignant. So precise in the way it captures life’s essence. In the last three days, I’ve encountered numerous stories with both those elements. Here is the … Read More
Dear John; How the Sagas of People Like John Edwards and John Travolta Affect People Like Me
I would have voted for you, John Edwards. The All-American Boy who grew up in Small Town America. The Boy Next Door with good ole’ fashioned values and a warm charm that is part and parcel to Southern-style hospitality. As it is, I don’t remember the last time I voted for a U.S. President. Politicians are liars and cheaters and … Read More
Dear Maria
I empathize with the trials you and your family face. Yesterday, today, tomorrow, thousands of people have already or will enter a similar circumstance. Some will come as a surprise and live closer than you might imagine, while others will connect from afar. No matter the distance, we are neighbors in grief, and allies in healing. The details vary, yet … Read More