In Great Deeds Something Abides
I’m walking on the battlefields today. I’m deeply moved by Chamberlain’s words spoken at the dedication of the Monument to the 20th Maine on October
September 23, 2011
Live With Flair
Enjoy the archive
What Not to Ask Your College Professor
I’m sitting in office hours, and a student stops in to discuss his philosophy class. We lean back in our chairs, pondering whether or not
September 22, 2011
A Lesson from the Wise Big Sister
Today, my Wise Big Sister offers another bit of wisdom. This is the Wise Big Sister who wrote me letters in college with Bible verses
September 21, 2011
Offering a Blank Page
Just now, my printer chokes and halts. An orange warning light flickers. A message alert flashes on my computer screen: No paper. I find the
September 20, 2011
I Didn’t Intend to Make a Fool of Myself
By now you know my weakness: Michael Jackson’s “Beat It.” I’m at the school picnic, and the DJ plays the song. It’s like I’m on
September 19, 2011
Things That Make Us Humble
I’m learning to give thanks for things that make me humble. What a blessing in disguise when we experience failure, sickness, less-than-perfect children, a rebuke
September 18, 2011
“Turning Over a New Leaf ” This Fall
Today, I learn the etymology of the phrase, “turning over a new leaf.” It dates back to the 16th century and literally means to turn
September 17, 2011
First Grade, iPads, and the New Language of Six-Year-Olds
We’re driving across town, and my six-year-old and I have the following conversation: “Mom, I uploaded two new apps to the iPad they gave me
September 16, 2011
Do What They Do For a Day
I find a pair of rain boots, and I dig out a fall raincoat. We’re walking to school in the pouring rain today. Everyone’s excited
September 15, 2011
It’s Not Just About Us
My oldest wants to learn flute, and she nods her head and glances at me when the director says, “When you practice your instrument, it’s
September 14, 2011