I’m a logophile—a lover of words. Or logomaniac might better describe my lifelong obsession. Since I first uncovered the magic of the lines and scribbles that formed letters, words continually intrigue and fascinate me. Given my penchant for language, the idea of selecting words to focus my life, work, [...]
A tiny life moment gives way to hope. The Moment Never give up on children or strangely blue orchids. My son beamed as he walked into the house clutching a brilliant blue orchid. Touched by his thoughtfulness and unexpected gift, I smiled. The inky cobalt tinge on the leaves [...]
You stand out — but never alone. * * * I have never accomplished anything entirely on my own. Family, friends, and sometimes people I don’t know played a role in supporting my efforts. You read stories of how individuals overcame obstacles, pulling themselves by their proverbial “bootstraps.” Yes, [...]
“Heroism doesn’t always happen in a burst of glory. Sometimes small triumphs and large hearts change the course of history.” — Mary Roach The gateway to the Luxembourg American Cemetary opens wide inviting visitors to remember the thousands who died in the midst of war. The rows of white [...]
If you abandon the present moment, you cannot live the moments of your daily life deeply. —Thich Nhat Hanh * * * I think of many moments left abandoned in the hope of seeking the one right thing. In retrospect, we discover the difference between what’s popular or expected [...]
I’m ready to listen, really listen, but I want to look you in the eye, smile, nod, and see you—nothing else can substitute face-to-face interaction to build understanding. * * * Call me old-fashioned, but I want to see your face and hear your voice. We marveled at letters [...]
I didn’t know what to say. The consequence of my mother’s words ricocheted pain that bounced back and forth across our family. What do you say to someone you love when they act in ways that hurt others—and themselves? Tucked away in an old journal, I found the poem [...]
Careen The pencil danced perfectly in my hand. But the words—the words could not find a home. Are they waiting for a more inspired writer? How could that be? Ideas careen. Maybe I can catch one, or two, before they dissolve into the sunset. * * * The challenge—write [...]
This day offers me 1,440 minutes to grow, to love, to hope, to make a difference in a world longing for kindness. * * * Have you ever ended your day wondering, "What did I do?" That happens to me more than I care to admit. I wander aimlessly [...]
We have much to learn from trees. I have always marveled at how trees can bend nearly to the ground and survive. Living near the Gulf Coast, I’ve watched trees as they brave the fierce winds of a hurricane, their branches arching to the ground. A few limbs may [...]
