More and More: Why Podcasting?
Several weeks ago, a talented friend of mine over at Light Ridge Studio (photographer, videographer, podcast producer) asked me about starting a podcast. He was so encouraging because he’d seen me speak on camera so easily and improvise without any kind of script. It was true: I always enjoyed speaking to all kinds of crowds […]
When the Thing You’re Complaining About Is Actually a Source of Blessing
I enjoyed a classic “flair” moment yesterday, and I couldn’t wait to tell you! I’ve been complaining for years about not having central air conditioning in my home. It’s hot. It’s humid. It’s sticky in here. And right around this time of year as May transitions to June, I complain and complain, especially at night. […]
The Single Questions
Today I spoke to three high school classes on what to expect in a college writing classroom. What struck me most about the advice I gave was how much I love this one point: Write out the single question your paper attempts to answer. Keep that question near your computer to keep you focused. […]
Staying Fascinated
Tomorrow I visit the high school for my annual talk to graduating seniors about what they can expect in a college writing classroom. I also talk about what it means to thrive in college and “best practices” as I see them. I’m adding something new this year. As I see the anxiety and despair rising […]
Dust the Cobwebs Off; Shed the Skin; Start Fresh
This morning, I woke with the same old condemning thoughts about yesterday. I review it all: the awkward or hurtful things I said, the tasks left undone, a poor performance in one area, an indulgence in another (yes, it involved food!). I proclaim the truth of Romans 8:1 that there is no condemnation for those […]
May You Flourish “Like a Palm Tree”
This morning in Psalm 92, I wondered about this marvelous statement in verse 12: “They righteous will flourish like a palm tree. . .” I paused. I wondered. How does a palm tree flourish? What’s so great about a palm tree? As I studied the most likely kind of palm the Jewish writer mentions here […]
By the Time It Reaches You
In Psalm 91:9-11, we read the most astonishing words: If you make the Most High your dwelling—even the Lord, who is my refuge—then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. . . It’s such a […]
2 More Questions for Your Writing Projects: When? What Form?
I’m having best time in my online book club that uses Seated with Christ to teach advanced writing techniques. Last week, we looked at the three best questions to ask before you launch into a new project (not just writing!): Why this? Why now? Why me? But this morning I thought of two more questions […]
Gather Your Wise People
This morning I remembered how important it is to have the right people in your life who know God’s word, who possess wisdom, and who care about your journey. Many, many times in life, you’ll reach some kind of fork in the road. You’ll have a decision to make. You won’t know what to do. […]
Your Curious, Watching Mind
This morning I remembered the lesson on staying curious and watchful with every person we meet. It changes everything about our day to position ourselves to look carefully for ways we might encouraging others and bring them hope. We stay curious about how God might be working in another person’s life, and we ask God […]