I started college as a philosophy major. If I was to be ordained, it was recommended that I have a background in philosophy before studying theology. It did help me to learn to think more critically. However, one of the first courses I took in college was in theater arts. … Read More »A Life of Meaning
Work-Life Balance. It’s a popular concept. Many business magazines and other publications have lists of recommendations to improve a person’s work-life balance. The idea is that the time and effort put into work has to be balanced with life. It’s a strategy to avoid becoming what used to be called… Read More »The Deception of Work-Life Balance
In the midst of all the routine aspects of your life, what inspires you to find something special or more meaningful in your life? A new day begins. We get out of bed, get dressed, grab breakfast, perhaps help family members get ready for the day, and go off to… Read More »Beyond the Ordinary
Pilgrimage. The Merriam-Webster dictionary provides these two definitions of pilgrimage: • a journey to a holy place • a journey to a special or unusual place The heart of pilgrimage is a journey. Typically, the journey of a pilgrim is a physical one. In United States history we think of… Read More »Pilgrimage: Depart to Arrive
I heard the news while driving: Robin Williams was dead. The apparent cause of death was suicide. The next day it was confirmed that Mr. Williams had killed himself. Since the first announcement on August 11, we were reminded that Mr. Williams struggled with depression and had recently been hospitalized… Read More »Robin Williams: The Sad Clown?
He’s an ordinary guy. Most people probably don’t notice him. He’s both polite and quiet. There’s nothing remarkable about his appearance or his manner. He’s the kind of person who blends in to the surroundings. Like most of us, he’s just an ordinary guy. Now in his forties, he experiences… Read More »The Ordinary Guy
Some couples followed desire system to have a perfect date-night: a night to go out and have fun, like when they were dating. I wouldn’t consider our Friday dinners out a “date-night.” Each Friday, we go out to dinner and unwind a bit from the week. By Friday evening, we’re… Read More »Friday Night Dinner
I’ve heard the story a number of times in the past. I don’t know if it’s legend or if this place actually exists. No matter the accuracy of the story, it strikes me that that the account coveys a timeless truth. As the story goes, a group of pilgrims visited… Read More »Death, Life, and Spirituality