Joe and I facilitate a grief group at our church. It's been going on for almost 2 years and often the conversation expands into discussions of the member's relationships with the person for whom they are grieving. Monday night a young woman was talking about the death of her mother 2 years ago. The first thing she said was, "I don't miss the fighting. I miss the good times but I don't miss the fighting. ...we fought all the time...we butted heads....we were so much alike." Then she shared something that troubled me. "And that's how my 10 year old daughter and I are...We fight all the time,"
This disclosure troubled me because it highlighted the unhealthy relationship pattern that she is in. She communicates and relates to these important people by fighting. My sense is no one enjoys that kind of relationship. I wonder when she dies if her daughter will say, "I don't miss the fighting."
We all learn communication patterns from our homes. Sometimes it makes us smile when we hear ourselves say something our parents said. It's important to take a look at and to listen to our communication and relationships. Are we duplicating some of the things we heard and did from home? Are those patterns healthy? Are they the ways we want our children to copy and maybe to remember when we are not with them?
God, help me to hear the way I talk and listen to my children and loved ones. Is it a loving manner in which they feel treasured?
Blessings-Penny
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
Thursday, September 8, 2016
one month
It's been a month since I've written a blog. A friend emailed and asked if I was ok? I reassured her I was---maybe I had just run out of things to say. She assured me I hadn't! she was right.
Today I attended a conference of faith and recovery. It was useful in confirming my strong belief that long term recovery happens when we place our recovery in our relationship with God. That is when the joy and peace of recovery comes alive within us. Sometimes conferences don't break new ground but they give information and concepts to people new to recovery whether they be treatment providers or clients. This felt like one of those. And helped remind me that even if what I say, I've said before maybe there is someone new reading this blog and they will hear it for the first time.
Also I need to be reminded of these concepts of recovery, faith and God over and over and over. No matter how long we have been in recovery, this is a chronic disease and we need to pay attention. It is a tiger that creeps in the grass and when we don't pay attention, it rears up and bites us on the ass! really! Pay attention.
And as the preface to my book says in quoting the philosopher, Pascal, "There is a God-Shaped void in the heart of every man which cannot be filled with any created thing but only by God, the creator, made known through Jesus Christ."
Books on amazon.com "Filling the God Shaped Void-a book of daily meditations" and "Broken by Addiction , Blessed by God.-a woman's journey into long term recovery."
Blessings-Penny
Today I attended a conference of faith and recovery. It was useful in confirming my strong belief that long term recovery happens when we place our recovery in our relationship with God. That is when the joy and peace of recovery comes alive within us. Sometimes conferences don't break new ground but they give information and concepts to people new to recovery whether they be treatment providers or clients. This felt like one of those. And helped remind me that even if what I say, I've said before maybe there is someone new reading this blog and they will hear it for the first time.
Also I need to be reminded of these concepts of recovery, faith and God over and over and over. No matter how long we have been in recovery, this is a chronic disease and we need to pay attention. It is a tiger that creeps in the grass and when we don't pay attention, it rears up and bites us on the ass! really! Pay attention.
And as the preface to my book says in quoting the philosopher, Pascal, "There is a God-Shaped void in the heart of every man which cannot be filled with any created thing but only by God, the creator, made known through Jesus Christ."
Books on amazon.com "Filling the God Shaped Void-a book of daily meditations" and "Broken by Addiction , Blessed by God.-a woman's journey into long term recovery."
Blessings-Penny
Monday, August 8, 2016
parents' anquish
I smiled and empathized with the television tape of the parents of a USA Olympic gymnast as she performed her routine on the balance beam. The mother absolutely covered her eyes, writhed and contorted in stress as the daughter jumped and twisted and spun. The father too leaned and stretched with his daughter. Their stress was palpable. That's how we are with those we love.
I think that must be what God looks like as we attempt to live our lives. when we are in tough times. I think He must cover His eyes and lean and contort with us...praying we don't fall and if we do that we get back up and try it again.
Another gymnast when questioned why she was attempting to defend her gold medal against very strong odds said, "I hate regret more than anything." Do we try again even when we fail because to not try would lead to regret?
Some of the choices I have made over the past 20 years have not turned out as happily as I had hoped. But I do not regret them. I took risks. I tried. No regrets....well, not many. I pray He has covered His eyes at a few of my choices and leaned and contorted with me at others.
Do you know He is there with you?
Blessings-Penny
I think that must be what God looks like as we attempt to live our lives. when we are in tough times. I think He must cover His eyes and lean and contort with us...praying we don't fall and if we do that we get back up and try it again.
Another gymnast when questioned why she was attempting to defend her gold medal against very strong odds said, "I hate regret more than anything." Do we try again even when we fail because to not try would lead to regret?
Some of the choices I have made over the past 20 years have not turned out as happily as I had hoped. But I do not regret them. I took risks. I tried. No regrets....well, not many. I pray He has covered His eyes at a few of my choices and leaned and contorted with me at others.
Do you know He is there with you?
Blessings-Penny
Sunday, August 7, 2016
the best they can
Not infrequently I get irritated, frustrated, saddened that friends or relatives seem to let me down. I met with a friend recently who expressed the same sadness and frustration. She was off to give a presentation at a conference and it was a big deal. She had donated many times over the years to her company's sunshine fund and yet had had no personal health or big events to receive any recognition from the club. She was secretly hoping that the club would give her flowers or at least a card to celebrate her big day. Nope-nothing. She acknowledged the lack of recognition was a disappointment and took a little of the shine off her departure.
I know from a "therapeutic" perspective that our "secret" hopes and expectations are a major part of our disappointments. Other people can't read our minds. If we need something, we need to ask, be clear. So on one level I want to tell myself, "People are doing the best they can. If I need or want something, tell them." On the other hand, surprise phone calls, cards, flowers---in recognition of an event---or just because someone is thinking of you---are such a delight.
Who would love a phone call or flowers from you---just because you are thinking of them?
That's one way to do the best you can---to be the best you can be---to live in the kingdom of God---really!!!
Blessings-Penny
I know from a "therapeutic" perspective that our "secret" hopes and expectations are a major part of our disappointments. Other people can't read our minds. If we need something, we need to ask, be clear. So on one level I want to tell myself, "People are doing the best they can. If I need or want something, tell them." On the other hand, surprise phone calls, cards, flowers---in recognition of an event---or just because someone is thinking of you---are such a delight.
Who would love a phone call or flowers from you---just because you are thinking of them?
That's one way to do the best you can---to be the best you can be---to live in the kingdom of God---really!!!
Blessings-Penny
Sunday, July 24, 2016
praying in disappointment
In yesterdays' meditation Fred Buechner isn't really talking about disappointment but he is talking about sadness and need for healing. I thought of my family with their sadness and disappointment yesterday. Buechner says, ""But there are other times--often the most unexpected, unlikely times--when strong as life itself comes the sense there is holiness deeper than shabbiness and horror (sadness and disappointment) and at the very heart of darkness a light unutterable..and in that room of thanksgiving and remembering there is peace."
In our disappointments and darkness we pray to remember God's wonderful work in our lives---to feel that light unutterable---peace.
Blessings-Penny
In our disappointments and darkness we pray to remember God's wonderful work in our lives---to feel that light unutterable---peace.
Blessings-Penny
Saturday, July 23, 2016
disappointment
Some of our family had a big trip planned for 2 days ago. It was a plane trip to "home" (across country) and family where the parents had grown up and also their now adult daughter. The mom had recently completed 2 years of chemo/bone marrow transplant and very very difficult recovery. She had missed trips "home" for 2 years though her large family had visited here. For her it was to be sort of a victory lap.
Along with their adult daughter were daughter's husband, mom's own husband and two grand children--ages 3 and 1 1/2 years. Mom had agreed to use a wheelchair---kids needed stroller and car seat---and seven suitcases. Not an easy trip.
As they waited to check the car seat at the gate, the screen flashed to "flight cancelled." Can you imagine??!! I've had difficult trips but this one was an absolute nightmare. Finally after several hours and very little help from the airline, they simply cancelled. The arrangements the airline suggested were absolutely not do-able.
They drove home amidst many tears, without luggage, without a new plan. When they arrived home the 3 year old (who had really been prepped for this trip) said, "Mommy, I didn't like that trip."
Now in the old days, that would have been a real excuse for a couple of shots of bourbon for me. It made me think about how we respond to disappointment in recovery. In recovery we need new strategies. It has to be part of our recovery plan---can't wait for the disappointment and then figure it out.
What is your recovery plan for disappointment---even the small everyday disappointments?
Does it include prayer? Does it include remembering God is always with us to help us through?
Blessings-Penny
Along with their adult daughter were daughter's husband, mom's own husband and two grand children--ages 3 and 1 1/2 years. Mom had agreed to use a wheelchair---kids needed stroller and car seat---and seven suitcases. Not an easy trip.
As they waited to check the car seat at the gate, the screen flashed to "flight cancelled." Can you imagine??!! I've had difficult trips but this one was an absolute nightmare. Finally after several hours and very little help from the airline, they simply cancelled. The arrangements the airline suggested were absolutely not do-able.
They drove home amidst many tears, without luggage, without a new plan. When they arrived home the 3 year old (who had really been prepped for this trip) said, "Mommy, I didn't like that trip."
Now in the old days, that would have been a real excuse for a couple of shots of bourbon for me. It made me think about how we respond to disappointment in recovery. In recovery we need new strategies. It has to be part of our recovery plan---can't wait for the disappointment and then figure it out.
What is your recovery plan for disappointment---even the small everyday disappointments?
Does it include prayer? Does it include remembering God is always with us to help us through?
Blessings-Penny
Tuesday, July 12, 2016
the computer, the robins and family
My computer crashed! Holy shamoly the frustration! ...buy which replacement? how to pay bills while no internet? how to work the new one? no link to printer-yet----touch pad-no mouse! no Microsoft word!
I can really get worked up about all of this.
Then I sat on the patio this morning and watched the robins feeding the babies in the nest in the tree at the edge of the patio. Peaceful---full of peace, a gift.
Then a friend called with much sadness---family struggles, difficult situation, difficult communication, the possibility of a deep split.
Life can be so hard---the little stuff, the big stuff---making certain we know what is big stuff and what is little stuff It seems to me the big stuff is the family stuff-the relationships. The rest of it is really trivial.
Dear God, today let me be mindful that I don't waste your or my time on the trivial. Let me pray for the friend and her family. Let me take great pleasure in the robins. Let me not get so stressed by the computer. Remind me to be thankful I can buy a new one---for heavens sake!!!
Blessings-Penny
I can really get worked up about all of this.
Then I sat on the patio this morning and watched the robins feeding the babies in the nest in the tree at the edge of the patio. Peaceful---full of peace, a gift.
Then a friend called with much sadness---family struggles, difficult situation, difficult communication, the possibility of a deep split.
Life can be so hard---the little stuff, the big stuff---making certain we know what is big stuff and what is little stuff It seems to me the big stuff is the family stuff-the relationships. The rest of it is really trivial.
Dear God, today let me be mindful that I don't waste your or my time on the trivial. Let me pray for the friend and her family. Let me take great pleasure in the robins. Let me not get so stressed by the computer. Remind me to be thankful I can buy a new one---for heavens sake!!!
Blessings-Penny
Monday, July 4, 2016
does it make a difference in how you live your life?
The story of "doubting Thomas" was the focus of a recent meditation we have been reading. We know the story---the disciple Thomas was told of Jesus resurrection but said if he didn't see the holes in Christ's hands or place his hand in the gash in Christ's side, he would not believe in the resurrection. The writer of our meditation said that this is our story---that it is so very hard for us to believe in Christ's resurrection in a way that "affects how we live our lives."
That seems so very true. If we really believed in Christ's resurrection how different would our lives be? Would we leave all---everything---and live our lives differently?
Do you believe?
Even now on a daily basis would that belief make a difference in how you live your everyday---more patient with your spouse, children, co-workers? More generous to those in need---with your time, your money? Take more time to pray---to talk with God? Thank God for his gifts---your recovery?What difference?
Interesting to think about.
Blessings-Penny
That seems so very true. If we really believed in Christ's resurrection how different would our lives be? Would we leave all---everything---and live our lives differently?
Do you believe?
Even now on a daily basis would that belief make a difference in how you live your everyday---more patient with your spouse, children, co-workers? More generous to those in need---with your time, your money? Take more time to pray---to talk with God? Thank God for his gifts---your recovery?What difference?
Interesting to think about.
Blessings-Penny
Friday, June 24, 2016
the back yard again
About 6 a.m. I take our boxer dog out for her first "outing" of the day. Usually we go out front for a quick 'relief" and then back in for breakfast before our morning walk. However the last few days, because of the intense heat here in Las Vegas (112 degrees!) other dog owners are up early also ---and some without dogs on leash. Izzy does not do well with other dogs---so we have been going out back on the golf course for the first "outing" of the day. Probably not legal in homeowner rules but no one has said anything -yet.
The point is the temperature in the back yard on the golf course is unbelievably cooler than on the front street side of the house. Now we've all been aware that cities hold their heat even overnight--- and a lot of that is due to asphalt streets holding their heat. But I never realized how much that would be true even in a suburb such as we live in. Probably some of that retained heat is because of the unbelievable daytime temperatures here-- (I sure wasn't aware of this is Vermont!). But nonetheless it really does make a point of what urban/suburban growth has done to our planet. No lectures here on global warming but wow---what a lesson.
I will continue to enjoy my early mornings on the golf course---and be aware of man's impact.
God gave us this beautiful planet. Are we caring for it? Are you?
Blessings-Penny
The point is the temperature in the back yard on the golf course is unbelievably cooler than on the front street side of the house. Now we've all been aware that cities hold their heat even overnight--- and a lot of that is due to asphalt streets holding their heat. But I never realized how much that would be true even in a suburb such as we live in. Probably some of that retained heat is because of the unbelievable daytime temperatures here-- (I sure wasn't aware of this is Vermont!). But nonetheless it really does make a point of what urban/suburban growth has done to our planet. No lectures here on global warming but wow---what a lesson.
I will continue to enjoy my early mornings on the golf course---and be aware of man's impact.
God gave us this beautiful planet. Are we caring for it? Are you?
Blessings-Penny
Friday, June 17, 2016
location, location, location
In all the horror and tragedy of the past week, there was a lovely reminder of the beauty and peace of nature, of God, in our backyard. Yesterday morning a baby robin perched on a small fence surrounding our patio. Daddy robin sat next to him offering a berry. The baby sat there for many minutes---maybe 20--- before getting the nerve to try his wings. Mother and dad flew by several times, chasing away an intrusive cat bird. Finally baby tentatively took flight---not very far but mom and dad remained right there as he tested his wings. .
And then this morning robin parents were again very active in the same area....same robins or another family, I do not know. As I sat with newspaper and coffee and followed their flight I spotted the nest---nestled in the trunk of the tree where the limbs started to spread....just above the patio. I watched all morning as they flew back and forth from nest to grass to nest-clearly feeding babies still in the nest.
When my husband came out, I showed him the hollow where the parents busied themselves. "That's a great spot." It made me think of the realtor suggestion when buying a house, "It's all about location, location, location."
Thank you, gracious God, for giving me a few moments of peace and delight --reminding me to place all trust and faith in your presence---your presence in my life and the lives of the families and friends touched by all the violence of the past week. Help us remember your arms surround us and hold us---always.
Blessings-Penny
And then this morning robin parents were again very active in the same area....same robins or another family, I do not know. As I sat with newspaper and coffee and followed their flight I spotted the nest---nestled in the trunk of the tree where the limbs started to spread....just above the patio. I watched all morning as they flew back and forth from nest to grass to nest-clearly feeding babies still in the nest.
When my husband came out, I showed him the hollow where the parents busied themselves. "That's a great spot." It made me think of the realtor suggestion when buying a house, "It's all about location, location, location."
Thank you, gracious God, for giving me a few moments of peace and delight --reminding me to place all trust and faith in your presence---your presence in my life and the lives of the families and friends touched by all the violence of the past week. Help us remember your arms surround us and hold us---always.
Blessings-Penny
Wednesday, June 8, 2016
three little words
Heard on tv last night. "The three most important words in a relationship are not, 'I love you.' The three most important words are 'I hear you.'"
Isn't that true? We all just want to be heard. Don't think you have to fix it. Just hear me--my thoughts, my dreams, my hopes, my doubts, my fears, my opinions.
God hears us.
Do we hear Him?
Blessings-Penny
Isn't that true? We all just want to be heard. Don't think you have to fix it. Just hear me--my thoughts, my dreams, my hopes, my doubts, my fears, my opinions.
God hears us.
Do we hear Him?
Blessings-Penny
Sunday, June 5, 2016
sadness
I was talking with a friend this week about sadness. She recently attended a family reunion which apparently triggered a lot of memories associated with a particularly significant loss of many years ago. The loss was of a career, a profession, in which she had a very personal connection. It was truly who she saw herself as---not just a job---but essential to her core. The loss was related to her addiction and she acknowledges it was truly her own fault.
I was empathizing that the anniversary of my daughter's death is coming around again and the anniversary triggers the depth of her loss again. My friend's comment was meaningful. "You know you put the loss aside on a daily basis. You go on and realize that you have to get on with your life. But when a trigger such as my reunion or your daughter's death anniversary comes around, the pain returns. It's not like it was years ago---it's like it was ten minutes ago or 10 days ago."
How do we go on when the sadness is so core? When it again invades our nighttime and daytime dreams and thoughts?
The only way I know is to pray. To ask God to help me feel His loving arms holding me. I don't always feel that every day. There are certainly times I even wonder about the whole existence of God.
And yet, in times of deep sadness, there is a real comfort in prayer and even the hope that God is holding the sadness with me. "Faith...the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen."
Blessings-Penny
I was empathizing that the anniversary of my daughter's death is coming around again and the anniversary triggers the depth of her loss again. My friend's comment was meaningful. "You know you put the loss aside on a daily basis. You go on and realize that you have to get on with your life. But when a trigger such as my reunion or your daughter's death anniversary comes around, the pain returns. It's not like it was years ago---it's like it was ten minutes ago or 10 days ago."
How do we go on when the sadness is so core? When it again invades our nighttime and daytime dreams and thoughts?
The only way I know is to pray. To ask God to help me feel His loving arms holding me. I don't always feel that every day. There are certainly times I even wonder about the whole existence of God.
And yet, in times of deep sadness, there is a real comfort in prayer and even the hope that God is holding the sadness with me. "Faith...the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen."
Blessings-Penny
Monday, May 30, 2016
welcoming
I have a trip East planned in a couple of weeks. It's for high school graduations of 2 grand children and the priority is time with kids and grand kids. However, I had hoped to link up with 2 girlfriends from years past---we had spent a wonderful night together 2 years ago. But they are busy---busy in ways that left me feeling that our friendship was not high on their lists. I know we are all busy but their reasons seemed a bit lame.
Anyway, I contacted another friend who truly has a complicated, stressful life. We haven't had time together for several years. When I emailed her with a suggestion of dinner together, her response was,"Absolutely! We will make it work!" It felt like arms open wide--welcoming me.
Is that how coming home to God is? If we have lapsed in our spirituality, in making God a priority in our life, when we ask to come home, does He open His arms wide and say, "Absolutey! We will make it work!"
I believe that. I also believe because God does that for us, we do it for others. Is there someone in your life who would be thrilled to hear you say, "Absolutely! We will make it work!"
Blessings-Penny
Anyway, I contacted another friend who truly has a complicated, stressful life. We haven't had time together for several years. When I emailed her with a suggestion of dinner together, her response was,"Absolutely! We will make it work!" It felt like arms open wide--welcoming me.
Is that how coming home to God is? If we have lapsed in our spirituality, in making God a priority in our life, when we ask to come home, does He open His arms wide and say, "Absolutey! We will make it work!"
I believe that. I also believe because God does that for us, we do it for others. Is there someone in your life who would be thrilled to hear you say, "Absolutely! We will make it work!"
Blessings-Penny
Monday, May 23, 2016
pet peeve
We went to a matinee concert yesterday---a beautiful classical music presentation. The usual request was given for everyone to turn off their cell phones and all other mobile devices.
And then there were two! One to our right and one to our left. As the magnificent sonatas were played the annoying lights of their phones came on. One took pictures. A few minutes later the other answered a text. Do they think the request is not for them??!! The lights from their devices really were distracting! I wanted to tap them on the shoulder and ask what made them so important. Of cours I didn't. I just stewed.
Then as we drove home I considered how fortunate I am. If the biggest annoyance in my life is the light from someone's cell phone disturbing my afternoon concert, I really better re-examine my state of thankfulness. In Bible study in the morning we had talked about contentment. How so many of us in this day and age complain, think life is unfair. The political discourse is sad if not frightening---the anger, the discontent. Personal conversations are filled with complaints.
One woman in the Bible study who works with severely disabled children talked about the parents of the children...how some of them seem to accept that this (the child's disability) is just a part of life. They don't seem angry...they don't seem discontent. They accept and work to make the best of their situation.
What makes the difference? What makes some of us so irritable...ready to pounce? What makes some of us more content with what life presents?
"God grant me the courage to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference." The truth of familiar prayers.
Blessings-Penny
And then there were two! One to our right and one to our left. As the magnificent sonatas were played the annoying lights of their phones came on. One took pictures. A few minutes later the other answered a text. Do they think the request is not for them??!! The lights from their devices really were distracting! I wanted to tap them on the shoulder and ask what made them so important. Of cours I didn't. I just stewed.
Then as we drove home I considered how fortunate I am. If the biggest annoyance in my life is the light from someone's cell phone disturbing my afternoon concert, I really better re-examine my state of thankfulness. In Bible study in the morning we had talked about contentment. How so many of us in this day and age complain, think life is unfair. The political discourse is sad if not frightening---the anger, the discontent. Personal conversations are filled with complaints.
One woman in the Bible study who works with severely disabled children talked about the parents of the children...how some of them seem to accept that this (the child's disability) is just a part of life. They don't seem angry...they don't seem discontent. They accept and work to make the best of their situation.
What makes the difference? What makes some of us so irritable...ready to pounce? What makes some of us more content with what life presents?
"God grant me the courage to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference." The truth of familiar prayers.
Blessings-Penny
Sunday, May 15, 2016
another view
We drove out past Red Rock Canyon this morning to a breakfast gathering. Most of the times we drive to Red Rock Canyon we are taking visitors to enjoy the history and views within the canyon. It is so worth seeing. This time we drove past the usual route and enjoyed a different view. The massiveness and multi colors of the rocks are absolutely inspiring. Each way you turn, the sky is bright blue and the majesty is overwhelming.
It is reminder that in our lives, each incident, each conversation, each relationship is worth viewing from a different perspective. If we just take the time to consider another person's opinion, to consider their history, to consider their view of things, we might have a whole different picture.
I need to learn how to download some of these pictures on this blog. I'd love to share them with you---God's grandeur--Gods' gifts.
Is there another perspective you need to consider?
Blessings-Penny
It is reminder that in our lives, each incident, each conversation, each relationship is worth viewing from a different perspective. If we just take the time to consider another person's opinion, to consider their history, to consider their view of things, we might have a whole different picture.
I need to learn how to download some of these pictures on this blog. I'd love to share them with you---God's grandeur--Gods' gifts.
Is there another perspective you need to consider?
Blessings-Penny
Monday, May 9, 2016
another generation
The other grandmother, Debbie, and I baby sat the grandchildren last week...babysitter emergency. The children are a boy almost 4 years old, let's call him David and a 14 month old girl, let's call her Elizabeth. They are precious children (of course). What struck me was watching them problem solve.
I sat on the floor with Elizabeth in the morning and played with Fisher Price little people going down a slide on the side of an amusement park toy.. Later in the afternoon as I sat on the floor and watched her the little people were spread throughout the living room floor. She was sitting next to the amusement park toy and looking at the little people. Next thing I saw was Elizabeth toddling around the floor, picking up the little people and taking them back over to slide down the slide. Fourteen months!! Isn't that brilliant??
And then Debbie had a card for David to complete for his mother for Mother's Day. The card had a series of incomplete sentences such as "My mother is powerful when...." or "I love it when my mother...." As Debbie read the incomplete sentences David filled in the personal testimonies. He got it immediately!! He only needed instructions once. That's pretty amazing for a three year old boy!
So in looking back over the past two weeks I am touched, moved and feeling blessed---watching the teenagers two weeks ago and the babies last week. I may not be the highest priority in those families but I belong.
Are you feeling blessed? Included? No matter what, we are a priority in God's family.
Blessings-Penny
I sat on the floor with Elizabeth in the morning and played with Fisher Price little people going down a slide on the side of an amusement park toy.. Later in the afternoon as I sat on the floor and watched her the little people were spread throughout the living room floor. She was sitting next to the amusement park toy and looking at the little people. Next thing I saw was Elizabeth toddling around the floor, picking up the little people and taking them back over to slide down the slide. Fourteen months!! Isn't that brilliant??
And then Debbie had a card for David to complete for his mother for Mother's Day. The card had a series of incomplete sentences such as "My mother is powerful when...." or "I love it when my mother...." As Debbie read the incomplete sentences David filled in the personal testimonies. He got it immediately!! He only needed instructions once. That's pretty amazing for a three year old boy!
So in looking back over the past two weeks I am touched, moved and feeling blessed---watching the teenagers two weeks ago and the babies last week. I may not be the highest priority in those families but I belong.
Are you feeling blessed? Included? No matter what, we are a priority in God's family.
Blessings-Penny
Monday, May 2, 2016
the periphery
I just spent 4 days in southern California with my son and his family. It was a lovely visit---good food, comfortable home with great view, time with each of them---and especially a few private hours with my grand daughter. Lexi is just about to be 17. She has her first boyfriend. He's cute, plays football, goes to a different high school. They met at a church youth group. While I was there he asked her parents if he could have their "blessing" (his word) for them to be boyfriend and girlfriend!
Who does that these days??!! Who has those kind of manners??!! What I mostly read about is teenagers posting naked pictures on social media, bullying, hooking up. Where did these two very nice kids come from?? Of course they came from homes where parents take time to talk about responsibility, consequences of behavior, respect, manners. I'm so very pleased for all of them---the kids sense of social behavior, the pride the parents must feel.
The whole visit, however, was not "perfect." The parents went to a social event and though I was hesitantly invited it was clearly an event they felt awkward including me. They had apologized for the need to attend before I visited but I still felt "on the periphery" when the time came. My husband and I are slowly coming to the realization that we are "on the periphery" with all of our children. We understand they are all busy with children, jobs, exercise, homes etc. etc. etc. But the clear realization of our peripheral standing is giving us a bit of a jolt. We have seen it coming and talked about it but each occasion is a bit of an "ouch."
The good news is that this realization gives us an opportunity to see our relationship as a gift---strong, connected, humor filled, willing to talk and wrestle with these issues, mutually supportive; we play well together.
And we realize that we are not on the periphery of God's family. We are included and cherished in His family.
So are you---no matter where you might feel peripheral---you are one of God's children---treasured, loved and important.
Blessings-Penny
Who does that these days??!! Who has those kind of manners??!! What I mostly read about is teenagers posting naked pictures on social media, bullying, hooking up. Where did these two very nice kids come from?? Of course they came from homes where parents take time to talk about responsibility, consequences of behavior, respect, manners. I'm so very pleased for all of them---the kids sense of social behavior, the pride the parents must feel.
The whole visit, however, was not "perfect." The parents went to a social event and though I was hesitantly invited it was clearly an event they felt awkward including me. They had apologized for the need to attend before I visited but I still felt "on the periphery" when the time came. My husband and I are slowly coming to the realization that we are "on the periphery" with all of our children. We understand they are all busy with children, jobs, exercise, homes etc. etc. etc. But the clear realization of our peripheral standing is giving us a bit of a jolt. We have seen it coming and talked about it but each occasion is a bit of an "ouch."
The good news is that this realization gives us an opportunity to see our relationship as a gift---strong, connected, humor filled, willing to talk and wrestle with these issues, mutually supportive; we play well together.
And we realize that we are not on the periphery of God's family. We are included and cherished in His family.
So are you---no matter where you might feel peripheral---you are one of God's children---treasured, loved and important.
Blessings-Penny
Monday, April 25, 2016
storage units
Have you noticed how many streets have big storage unit complexes? Even an investment firm is advertising that storage units are the next best investment. People buy a lot of stuff and then need to store something to make room for the new thing.
One of my family groups is selling their house. They are in the process of "staging" it so it can look beautiful to sell. They have been told to reduce their clutter so they are packing up boxes and boxes of stuff and putting it into a storage unit. Now if they can store it for several months, how much of it do they really need?
They work hard. They can afford their clutter. They have 4 children. But, again, if they can manage without this "clutter" for months, do they really need it?
I think it's a question for all of us. How much of our stuff is clutter and how much do we really need?
Our consumerism is owning us. We work hard. We put ourselves under such stress----for what? ---so we can buy more stuff to store? I'm as bad as the next guy. We went to an estate sale on Friday. I bought a set of brightly painted dishes---not a full set but enough to fill up a cupboard. They are colorful. Fun---something very different from what I have. When I use them I call it our "happy meal." But I truly didn't need them. More stuff. More work to find space.
If I want a simple life...if I want less stress...I need to take time to think through what I buy. Will this simplify my life or complicate it?
This clutter is just one of the pieces of life as we search for real peace... "a peace that passes all understanding." The real peace comes from knowing we are held in God's arms. No storage units...no painted dishes. Just trust.
Today, let me take a deep breath...and trust.
Blessings-Penny
One of my family groups is selling their house. They are in the process of "staging" it so it can look beautiful to sell. They have been told to reduce their clutter so they are packing up boxes and boxes of stuff and putting it into a storage unit. Now if they can store it for several months, how much of it do they really need?
They work hard. They can afford their clutter. They have 4 children. But, again, if they can manage without this "clutter" for months, do they really need it?
I think it's a question for all of us. How much of our stuff is clutter and how much do we really need?
Our consumerism is owning us. We work hard. We put ourselves under such stress----for what? ---so we can buy more stuff to store? I'm as bad as the next guy. We went to an estate sale on Friday. I bought a set of brightly painted dishes---not a full set but enough to fill up a cupboard. They are colorful. Fun---something very different from what I have. When I use them I call it our "happy meal." But I truly didn't need them. More stuff. More work to find space.
If I want a simple life...if I want less stress...I need to take time to think through what I buy. Will this simplify my life or complicate it?
This clutter is just one of the pieces of life as we search for real peace... "a peace that passes all understanding." The real peace comes from knowing we are held in God's arms. No storage units...no painted dishes. Just trust.
Today, let me take a deep breath...and trust.
Blessings-Penny
Monday, April 18, 2016
topics
Sometimes---not often---but sometimes I wonder what topic I might write about in this blog. Clearly there are good people who check if there is something new on here. You seem to check a couple of times a month. And if you check it seems I need to make the effort to write something. And clearly there is enough "stuff" going on in the world that there should be an easily available topic.
But at these times I wonder if there is anything more to say---anything that hasn't been said; like----
---the current politics in this country are profoundly troubling and embarrassing :
---Isis needs to be stopped somehow without killing innocent people
---mental illness treatment needs to be funded
There are lots of topics for which I have a strong opinion, but my opinion is nothing new or profound.
And then there are the good things:
---my son's fifth anniversary and the strong family he and his wife created---a situation that took much work and sacrifice ---one of those daily miracles
---my friend's (more than friend) continued recovery from her bone marrow transplant ---and her new curly hair---one of those daily miracles
---the gorgeous roses blooming so profusely in this neighborhood---daily miracle
Don't you sometimes wonder what meaning this all has?
How am I to be in all of this?
I guess it's an existential Monday. Sounds like a song title.---sounds like I'm a little loose today.
Relax---enjoy---and join me in my existential Monday.
Thank God---really---for a day to be a little loose.
Blessings-Penny
But at these times I wonder if there is anything more to say---anything that hasn't been said; like----
---the current politics in this country are profoundly troubling and embarrassing :
---Isis needs to be stopped somehow without killing innocent people
---mental illness treatment needs to be funded
There are lots of topics for which I have a strong opinion, but my opinion is nothing new or profound.
And then there are the good things:
---my son's fifth anniversary and the strong family he and his wife created---a situation that took much work and sacrifice ---one of those daily miracles
---my friend's (more than friend) continued recovery from her bone marrow transplant ---and her new curly hair---one of those daily miracles
---the gorgeous roses blooming so profusely in this neighborhood---daily miracle
Don't you sometimes wonder what meaning this all has?
How am I to be in all of this?
I guess it's an existential Monday. Sounds like a song title.---sounds like I'm a little loose today.
Relax---enjoy---and join me in my existential Monday.
Thank God---really---for a day to be a little loose.
Blessings-Penny
Sunday, April 10, 2016
a life
We had our kitchen cabinets, walls etc. painted last week. What chaos! I certainly didn't expect the amount of plastic sheeting and taping required. This is a small house and it felt like we were living in a plastic bubble. Anyway, it's done and looks lovely.
At one point I heard the woman forewoman of the job, Eileen, and a young co-worker talking. The forewoman was saying how difficult it is for her to learn Spanish. "English is my second language. My first language was sign language...My parents were both deaf and I learned sign language first...I had to learn to speak and speak English by spending time with my grandmother."
Now think about the challenge this woman had as a child! She talked about the challenge of elementary school...the teasing and the social consequences of halting English. She speaks fluent English now and I never would have guessed this woman's story and courage. I wish I had time to hear more. How did she learn to overcome her obstacles? How did she gain the confidence to persue her goals? (She was a tough forewomam---gave instructions in both English and Spanish---firm, no nonsense voice.)
A symbol of Eileen's success was a beautiful dark green F100 truck---immaculately kept. What did that truck represent to her?
Aren't people's stories amazing? And to think of the stories we miss hearing---the nurse, the teacher, the clerk, the pastor, the taxi driver, the housekeeper. Each of us has a story---a story so important.
Each of us is a child of God. Loved and cherished.
Dear God, today help me take a moment to look into the eyes of the people I encounter and know there is a story---a very important story. Help me acknowledge that story by a smile.
Blessings-Penny
At one point I heard the woman forewoman of the job, Eileen, and a young co-worker talking. The forewoman was saying how difficult it is for her to learn Spanish. "English is my second language. My first language was sign language...My parents were both deaf and I learned sign language first...I had to learn to speak and speak English by spending time with my grandmother."
Now think about the challenge this woman had as a child! She talked about the challenge of elementary school...the teasing and the social consequences of halting English. She speaks fluent English now and I never would have guessed this woman's story and courage. I wish I had time to hear more. How did she learn to overcome her obstacles? How did she gain the confidence to persue her goals? (She was a tough forewomam---gave instructions in both English and Spanish---firm, no nonsense voice.)
A symbol of Eileen's success was a beautiful dark green F100 truck---immaculately kept. What did that truck represent to her?
Aren't people's stories amazing? And to think of the stories we miss hearing---the nurse, the teacher, the clerk, the pastor, the taxi driver, the housekeeper. Each of us has a story---a story so important.
Each of us is a child of God. Loved and cherished.
Dear God, today help me take a moment to look into the eyes of the people I encounter and know there is a story---a very important story. Help me acknowledge that story by a smile.
Blessings-Penny
Monday, April 4, 2016
Boredom versus Joy
A recent review of a book on gambling caught my eye---we live in Las Vegas and gambling is all around---not just the casinos but drugstores, supermarkets, gas stations. The video poker machines are EVERYWHERE. The book was making the point that what makes these machines so addictive is that they relieve boredom. There is just enough "winning" to cause excitement
The larger point was that addiction often (not always-but often) begins as a way to deflect our boredom. "I'll have a drink...I'll smoke some weed...I'll take a hit" to relieve my boredom. We may not say it that way but that can be a message we give ourselves.
This book challenges us by saying that the opposite of boredom is not just finding some work to take our mind off our boredom but the opposite of boredom is extravagant joy. I was reminded of that as my visiting family and I visited the Red Rock State Park here just out of Las Vegas. Maybe it wasn't "extravagant joy" but it was an awesome sense of God's work in the ongoing creation of this world.
A quote from the book, "Celebration cannot occur without seeing the world as God sees it, without loving its goodness; in fact God's very nature is celebratory, an endless dance of mirth."
Do I think of God's very nature as mirth? Or do I live in "fear" of His nature?
Today can I take time to see the world as God sees it and celebrate with joy? Extravagant joy?
Blessings-Penny
The larger point was that addiction often (not always-but often) begins as a way to deflect our boredom. "I'll have a drink...I'll smoke some weed...I'll take a hit" to relieve my boredom. We may not say it that way but that can be a message we give ourselves.
This book challenges us by saying that the opposite of boredom is not just finding some work to take our mind off our boredom but the opposite of boredom is extravagant joy. I was reminded of that as my visiting family and I visited the Red Rock State Park here just out of Las Vegas. Maybe it wasn't "extravagant joy" but it was an awesome sense of God's work in the ongoing creation of this world.
A quote from the book, "Celebration cannot occur without seeing the world as God sees it, without loving its goodness; in fact God's very nature is celebratory, an endless dance of mirth."
Do I think of God's very nature as mirth? Or do I live in "fear" of His nature?
Today can I take time to see the world as God sees it and celebrate with joy? Extravagant joy?
Blessings-Penny
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
daily miracles
We just saw the movie "Miracles from Heaven." It's an interesting movie and thankfully leaves many of the spiritual questions unanswered. ...the ones for which there really are no answers...only faith.
At the close of the movie, the mother-played by Jennifer Garner--gives a talk at her church. She says something like this..."I don't know why my daughter was cured and yet there are thousands of children all over the world who don't get cured. What this has taught me is that I often miss the ordinary, daily miracles that occur in my life." The movie then recounts some of the "moments" ---the daily miracles---that occurred in this child's treatment and their family's life during this time...the steps in her recovery.
It made me think of the "daily miracles" that occur in our lives of recovery---the times the miracle happens that we don't make the decision to go to where a relapse could occur....that we choose the recovery people, places and things.
I don't know why my friend died of her alcoholism. The daily miracle is that I did not.
Recovery really is a daily miracle. Don't miss it. Be THANKFUL.
Blessings-Penny
At the close of the movie, the mother-played by Jennifer Garner--gives a talk at her church. She says something like this..."I don't know why my daughter was cured and yet there are thousands of children all over the world who don't get cured. What this has taught me is that I often miss the ordinary, daily miracles that occur in my life." The movie then recounts some of the "moments" ---the daily miracles---that occurred in this child's treatment and their family's life during this time...the steps in her recovery.
It made me think of the "daily miracles" that occur in our lives of recovery---the times the miracle happens that we don't make the decision to go to where a relapse could occur....that we choose the recovery people, places and things.
I don't know why my friend died of her alcoholism. The daily miracle is that I did not.
Recovery really is a daily miracle. Don't miss it. Be THANKFUL.
Blessings-Penny
Friday, March 25, 2016
powerful
This morning an email from the husband of a woman who struggled with alcoholism until her death in February. A young woman---a woman with a 15 year old daughter---a woman with a husband who didn't leave---a woman who was a teacher---a woman with so much to live for---died in her bathroom after a binge with a quart of Capt. Morgan (she used to call him her friend.) She had treatment---a month....expensive---promising. She was hopeful. But she when she returned home she wasn't willing/able to put her recovery first----there were lots of "yes, buts,," not willing/able to put her recovery in her relationship with God.
The disease was just too powerful. It's called an addiction for a reason. It is a fatal disease.
Such a frightening time it must have been for her when she started drinking again. Such a frightening time for her husband and daughter.
But there is hope for people who are open to breaking through the denial, people willing to make the seemingly impossible choices,people willing to hear their own "yes, buts...", people open to hearing the Holy Spirit right there with them, willing to take God's hand.
On this Good Friday let us remember God's redeeming action, His forgiveness, and His promise to be with us in all of this.
Let us give thanks for His grace in giving us another chance.
Please say a prayer for my friend and her family---that they feel God's healing love surrounding them.
Blessings-Penny
The disease was just too powerful. It's called an addiction for a reason. It is a fatal disease.
Such a frightening time it must have been for her when she started drinking again. Such a frightening time for her husband and daughter.
But there is hope for people who are open to breaking through the denial, people willing to make the seemingly impossible choices,people willing to hear their own "yes, buts...", people open to hearing the Holy Spirit right there with them, willing to take God's hand.
On this Good Friday let us remember God's redeeming action, His forgiveness, and His promise to be with us in all of this.
Let us give thanks for His grace in giving us another chance.
Please say a prayer for my friend and her family---that they feel God's healing love surrounding them.
Blessings-Penny
Friday, March 18, 2016
take a moment
Las Vegas, Nevada was never on my list of places I wanted to live--much less ever being on my bucket list. But as life will have it, here I am. At times I fantasize about being back in Virginia or maybe near the ocean in California. But then I take a moment and look at my reality---Las Vegas.
Life here is convenient, affordable, decent medical doctors, secure with family nearby---and a church that seems to offer opportunities I have not had before through a church. There is a sense of community in this church. People really take time and reach out to the less fortunate---the marginalized. Programs and money and especially time is offered through meals, homelessness housing, time with disadvantaged youth. The term discipleship is truly actualized.
Personally I am given the opportunity to use my background in mental health nursing through workshops and groups. I have often said I think the most important thing we can do in life is be loving parents. As I have worked with people challenged with all kinds of mental health problems, I have continued to maintain that if parents can give a solid sense of love,values, morals, ethics etc, then children can grow into productive, solid, loving adults. And now this church has asked me to write a column for the monthly newsletter on parenting! What a joy! An opportunity to actualize one of my core beliefs.
I'll use the books that helped me parent my own children and that I feel really changed how I parented--Children the Challenge and Raising the Responsible Child. They are still in publication all these years later!--gives credit to how good they are! So I'll try to put their information into easy, readable columns---short, church newsletter type columns. Of course I'll give them all the credit ---and maybe, just maybe, a busy, overwhelmed parent may have a moment to read something that might help in their relationship with their child...to speak more gently, to give options, to ask questions, to set limits, to use logical consequences
I am convinced all parents want to be good parents. We just don't always know how or what might be some options. After all we generally parent the way we were parented --or exactly the opposite way.
So---Las Vegas...life...gives us unexpected opportunities...if we are open...if we recognize God's hand. I'm not certain God has a prepaid plan for my life--but He certainly gives me surprises.
Everyday, dear God, give me a moment to recognize your hand in my life.
Blessings-Penny
Life here is convenient, affordable, decent medical doctors, secure with family nearby---and a church that seems to offer opportunities I have not had before through a church. There is a sense of community in this church. People really take time and reach out to the less fortunate---the marginalized. Programs and money and especially time is offered through meals, homelessness housing, time with disadvantaged youth. The term discipleship is truly actualized.
Personally I am given the opportunity to use my background in mental health nursing through workshops and groups. I have often said I think the most important thing we can do in life is be loving parents. As I have worked with people challenged with all kinds of mental health problems, I have continued to maintain that if parents can give a solid sense of love,values, morals, ethics etc, then children can grow into productive, solid, loving adults. And now this church has asked me to write a column for the monthly newsletter on parenting! What a joy! An opportunity to actualize one of my core beliefs.
I'll use the books that helped me parent my own children and that I feel really changed how I parented--Children the Challenge and Raising the Responsible Child. They are still in publication all these years later!--gives credit to how good they are! So I'll try to put their information into easy, readable columns---short, church newsletter type columns. Of course I'll give them all the credit ---and maybe, just maybe, a busy, overwhelmed parent may have a moment to read something that might help in their relationship with their child...to speak more gently, to give options, to ask questions, to set limits, to use logical consequences
I am convinced all parents want to be good parents. We just don't always know how or what might be some options. After all we generally parent the way we were parented --or exactly the opposite way.
So---Las Vegas...life...gives us unexpected opportunities...if we are open...if we recognize God's hand. I'm not certain God has a prepaid plan for my life--but He certainly gives me surprises.
Everyday, dear God, give me a moment to recognize your hand in my life.
Blessings-Penny
Saturday, March 12, 2016
the tiger is loose
Yesterday's newspaper said 47,000 people died of drug/alcohol related deaths last year!!! Can you imagine??!! That is unbelievable.
Then on tv sports the news that a young, star quarterback gets traded because of alcohol related incidents. His short, high visibility, high expectations, multi-million dollar career is essentially over if he doesn't get his addiction in control. His father says he will be dead in a couple of years if he continues on this road.
And then in our local paper, an article discussing the wife of a state supreme court judge---arrested for drunk driving and attacking the man with whom she had a traffic accident. All I can think of is "there but for the grace of God..."
And I mean that...God's grace moved me into recovery. It's not "perfect" recovery but as David Foster Wallace writes, "Those parts of me are still there but I don't let them drive anymore."
This is a complicated, fatal disease. It kills, it ruins careers, it devastates lives. If we have the disease, it challenges us our whole lives. But we "don't have to let it drive anymore." We have choices.
We call upon God to be with us in it...to be with us to make the right choices. We are not alone. Pray.
Blessings-Penny
Then on tv sports the news that a young, star quarterback gets traded because of alcohol related incidents. His short, high visibility, high expectations, multi-million dollar career is essentially over if he doesn't get his addiction in control. His father says he will be dead in a couple of years if he continues on this road.
And then in our local paper, an article discussing the wife of a state supreme court judge---arrested for drunk driving and attacking the man with whom she had a traffic accident. All I can think of is "there but for the grace of God..."
And I mean that...God's grace moved me into recovery. It's not "perfect" recovery but as David Foster Wallace writes, "Those parts of me are still there but I don't let them drive anymore."
This is a complicated, fatal disease. It kills, it ruins careers, it devastates lives. If we have the disease, it challenges us our whole lives. But we "don't have to let it drive anymore." We have choices.
We call upon God to be with us in it...to be with us to make the right choices. We are not alone. Pray.
Blessings-Penny
Monday, March 7, 2016
anger and forgiveness
In the workshop last week I was again struck by the anger held by many women. For a long time I have felt the anger we hold is a major issue for many of us. It can be anger at long past circumstances and/or anger over current issues. It can be anger over something personal or anger over someone belittling a value of ours---current politics comes to mind!
But what really strikes me is the power we give away when we hold on to the anger. It spills over into our peace. It spills into our relationship with ourselves, with others and with God. We feel powerless in the face of long held anger.
In the workshop we reviewed Desmond Tutu's process of healing from anger---always worth reviewing. We need to identify the anger---name it. We don't excuse the other person's behavior but we let go of the need for revenge. We work on understanding where the other person's behavior comes from. We give up our role of victim. When we give up our role of victim we get to "write the end of the story." I love that idea---we take back choices in how we think about the other person, in how we behave toward ourselves, toward others and within our relationship with God
Tutu has written many books on forgiveness. The one I particularly like is No Future without Forgiveness. I like the title---No Future without Forgiveness. It really seems that way. People stuck in their anger, unwilling to forgive are trapped. They go over and over and over the issue and never move into their future.
Can we begin to open our clinched fists and receive God's loving support as we pray about our issues of anger? It is God who is with us and gives us the courage to let it all be. We don't have to "let it go"---we just have to "let it be" in God's hands.
Blessings-Penny
But what really strikes me is the power we give away when we hold on to the anger. It spills over into our peace. It spills into our relationship with ourselves, with others and with God. We feel powerless in the face of long held anger.
In the workshop we reviewed Desmond Tutu's process of healing from anger---always worth reviewing. We need to identify the anger---name it. We don't excuse the other person's behavior but we let go of the need for revenge. We work on understanding where the other person's behavior comes from. We give up our role of victim. When we give up our role of victim we get to "write the end of the story." I love that idea---we take back choices in how we think about the other person, in how we behave toward ourselves, toward others and within our relationship with God
Tutu has written many books on forgiveness. The one I particularly like is No Future without Forgiveness. I like the title---No Future without Forgiveness. It really seems that way. People stuck in their anger, unwilling to forgive are trapped. They go over and over and over the issue and never move into their future.
Can we begin to open our clinched fists and receive God's loving support as we pray about our issues of anger? It is God who is with us and gives us the courage to let it all be. We don't have to "let it go"---we just have to "let it be" in God's hands.
Blessings-Penny
Wednesday, March 2, 2016
well, this is new
I was/am in a "dip." I'm reluctant to call it a depression---sounds so clinical. Anyway "depression" has to last for a period of time for it to be diagnosed as such; so I'll just call this a "dip." And I do feel better this morning --but why the dip?
Is it a let down from the workshop on Saturday? Is it worry about my son and his job situation? Is it an "existential" crisis about "what now?" in my life---sort of a delayed reaction to that last big birthday? A fall out from a recent criticism from someone I care about?
Probably a collection of all those things. But I know I don't like it! If this is what depression feels like, then I have a better sensitivity to people who are challenged by depression as an illness. No energy, no interest in being involved, no interest in talking.
So why do I feel a bit better this morning? Well last night at a meeting a woman who did not come to the workshop apologized for missing it. She also said that women at another meeting told her how "wonderful" it was and how much they got from the day. So that felt really good---no judgment, no stigma. Last night as Joe and I went to sleep we talked about the "dip" and the reasons. He just let me talk and offered reassurance, support and love. No attempt to solve it---he just listened. And now I am sharing it with you---writing, my version of journaling.
All the things I encourage others to do! Speak those words of encouragement to others! Listen! Write!
And most of all pray!!! Talk with God about your sadness, your fears, your anger. He listens! He wants us to come to Him. He wants us to be in relationship with Him. Have a meditation book you love nearby. Pick it up. Read. He will speak to you. He will speak of peace.
Blessings-Penny
Is it a let down from the workshop on Saturday? Is it worry about my son and his job situation? Is it an "existential" crisis about "what now?" in my life---sort of a delayed reaction to that last big birthday? A fall out from a recent criticism from someone I care about?
Probably a collection of all those things. But I know I don't like it! If this is what depression feels like, then I have a better sensitivity to people who are challenged by depression as an illness. No energy, no interest in being involved, no interest in talking.
So why do I feel a bit better this morning? Well last night at a meeting a woman who did not come to the workshop apologized for missing it. She also said that women at another meeting told her how "wonderful" it was and how much they got from the day. So that felt really good---no judgment, no stigma. Last night as Joe and I went to sleep we talked about the "dip" and the reasons. He just let me talk and offered reassurance, support and love. No attempt to solve it---he just listened. And now I am sharing it with you---writing, my version of journaling.
All the things I encourage others to do! Speak those words of encouragement to others! Listen! Write!
And most of all pray!!! Talk with God about your sadness, your fears, your anger. He listens! He wants us to come to Him. He wants us to be in relationship with Him. Have a meditation book you love nearby. Pick it up. Read. He will speak to you. He will speak of peace.
Blessings-Penny
Sunday, February 28, 2016
stigma
Yesterday I gave a workshop at the church we have been attending for about 18 months. The material was based on my book Broken by Addiction Blessed by God. It seemed essential that I share some of my own story since it is threaded through the book and is part of the journey of recovery in the book. However most of the women that I know at the church and who were signed up for the workshop do not know I am a recovering alcoholic.
I felt very vulnerable---once again. The stigma of being a woman alcoholic is alive and well!---and it's not just in my head. There is still a strong stigma to be a woman alcoholic or to having anything close to labeled a mental illness. Just read the newspapers or headlines of the papers in the rack as you wait to check out groceries. Tsk-tsk!The women at the workshop showed no signs of judgment and the day focused primarily on the human issues of self image, traditional roles, ineffective communication, grief and loss, medical issues, and anger and abuse. But when any of us put our personal story out there, we are vulnerable.
And yet---when we put our personal story out there, there is a chance someone will connect with it; someone will identify a similar situation; someone will find an opening, however small, to consider making a change in their own life; someone will find hope. There is a chance for "the kingdom of God to break through."
That risk is "living into the promises of God." He does not judge. He forgives.
Do you risk sharing your story? Do you hope to touch someone in their pain?
Blessings-Penny
I felt very vulnerable---once again. The stigma of being a woman alcoholic is alive and well!---and it's not just in my head. There is still a strong stigma to be a woman alcoholic or to having anything close to labeled a mental illness. Just read the newspapers or headlines of the papers in the rack as you wait to check out groceries. Tsk-tsk!The women at the workshop showed no signs of judgment and the day focused primarily on the human issues of self image, traditional roles, ineffective communication, grief and loss, medical issues, and anger and abuse. But when any of us put our personal story out there, we are vulnerable.
And yet---when we put our personal story out there, there is a chance someone will connect with it; someone will identify a similar situation; someone will find an opening, however small, to consider making a change in their own life; someone will find hope. There is a chance for "the kingdom of God to break through."
That risk is "living into the promises of God." He does not judge. He forgives.
Do you risk sharing your story? Do you hope to touch someone in their pain?
Blessings-Penny
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
bullies
This year's political process is embarrassing. What on earth have we come to as a nation? I generally refrain from political comments on this blog---but I really am deeply disturbed. All this "liar, liar, pants on fire" rhetoric is frightening. What must other nations think of us!! We must be the laughing stock! What happened to the belief that disagreement on the issues is valid but one respects the others right to that disagreement? When did we come to shouting and belligerance as THE way of communicating difference? What have we come to as an electorate that we see this as ok---that we encourage it!?
What message are we allowing to be sent to our children and young people? ---that this kind of name calling is a way to leadership?
A columnist recently said that what we need is a candidate whose priority is repairing the fabric of our nation. We need a healing.
Amen!!!!
Blessings--Penny
What message are we allowing to be sent to our children and young people? ---that this kind of name calling is a way to leadership?
A columnist recently said that what we need is a candidate whose priority is repairing the fabric of our nation. We need a healing.
Amen!!!!
Blessings--Penny
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Spring!!
Birds chirping awakened me this morning! It's warm enough to sleep with the window slightly open and there was our first sign of spring. When we lived in Vermont the first sign of spring was when the brook outside our bedroom began to thaw. Sure enough the sound of rushing water would awaken me to the first sign of spring. What a gift that was after our long, cold, dark winter!
And then as I stood at the sink making my morning coffee I noticed the buds on the flowering plum tree outside that window. Another welcome gift though winters here in Nevada are sunny and gentle.
This world truly is amazing---the east coast is having a "polar vortex" of snow, wind and sub zero temps. And here in the west we have record breaking warmth. Truly the vastness of this country is stunning.
Do I remember to thank God for the little things (really not so little)--for birds and buds and thawing streams? Do you?
Blessings-Penny
And then as I stood at the sink making my morning coffee I noticed the buds on the flowering plum tree outside that window. Another welcome gift though winters here in Nevada are sunny and gentle.
This world truly is amazing---the east coast is having a "polar vortex" of snow, wind and sub zero temps. And here in the west we have record breaking warmth. Truly the vastness of this country is stunning.
Do I remember to thank God for the little things (really not so little)--for birds and buds and thawing streams? Do you?
Blessings-Penny
Friday, February 12, 2016
neurotic?
I've moved alot in my lifetime. Some of the later moves have been my choice and most of the earlier ones had to do with my father's and first husband's careers. It's been over 22 major moves from state to state---some have been repeat moves to a particular state (like to Virginia a number of times)---some additional ones within a state--- but also to every major geographical area in the U. S. plus England.
I think I am done ---but one is never quite certain with me!
What got me thinking again about the moves was a recent article about finding spirituality in walking and traveling. Well, I walk for exercise and I do find it a time for lots of reflection. I think I find some spirituality in my moves also---maybe not what is defined by most people as spirituality but walking, traveling and moving could be defined as searching. Searching for new experiences, new things to consider, new ways to explore ideas. The article said that walking and traveling are ways to meet new people, examine life from different perspectives and cultures.
That certainly has been true of my moves and my walking. Living in new geographical areas has certainly taught me that people in the U. S. differ signficantly in their views of many important things---city people, rural people, people who move, people who have lived in one place most of their lives---differ in politics, religion, entertainment, even family life. Not one better or worse---just different. In my moves I get to search the differences and the similarities.
Even walking gives me an opportunity to examine the landscapes of the different geographical areas---understand the geology, evolution and survival. Searching. Walking the dog gives me interactions with people I would not otherwise have. People stop to talk---share their experiences, search for commonalities.
What I like in the article about walking (moving) and spirituality is that it said I'm not neurotic. That's a reassurance. I'm certain many of my friends think I'm a bit neurotic with all these moves. I know the kids wonder about mom at times. But the article said that all this movement is searching. Knowing there is more below the surface of this world---or maybe above the surface. It reminded me of the title of my book Filling the God-Shaped Void---"There is a God-Shaped void in the heart of every man which cannot be filled by any created thing; only by God the creator made known through Jesus Christ." (Pascal)
My void? my search?---your void? your search?
Blessings-Penny
I think I am done ---but one is never quite certain with me!
What got me thinking again about the moves was a recent article about finding spirituality in walking and traveling. Well, I walk for exercise and I do find it a time for lots of reflection. I think I find some spirituality in my moves also---maybe not what is defined by most people as spirituality but walking, traveling and moving could be defined as searching. Searching for new experiences, new things to consider, new ways to explore ideas. The article said that walking and traveling are ways to meet new people, examine life from different perspectives and cultures.
That certainly has been true of my moves and my walking. Living in new geographical areas has certainly taught me that people in the U. S. differ signficantly in their views of many important things---city people, rural people, people who move, people who have lived in one place most of their lives---differ in politics, religion, entertainment, even family life. Not one better or worse---just different. In my moves I get to search the differences and the similarities.
Even walking gives me an opportunity to examine the landscapes of the different geographical areas---understand the geology, evolution and survival. Searching. Walking the dog gives me interactions with people I would not otherwise have. People stop to talk---share their experiences, search for commonalities.
What I like in the article about walking (moving) and spirituality is that it said I'm not neurotic. That's a reassurance. I'm certain many of my friends think I'm a bit neurotic with all these moves. I know the kids wonder about mom at times. But the article said that all this movement is searching. Knowing there is more below the surface of this world---or maybe above the surface. It reminded me of the title of my book Filling the God-Shaped Void---"There is a God-Shaped void in the heart of every man which cannot be filled by any created thing; only by God the creator made known through Jesus Christ." (Pascal)
My void? my search?---your void? your search?
Blessings-Penny
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
anger and confrontation
I was reviewing a catalog of community courses offered at our state university and found one entitled "Neutralizing Verbal Attacks." Part of the description talked about ways to stay calm ..."reduce the anxiety you feel during verbal confrontations and preventing your response from damaging the relationship."
A number of recent "verbal confrontations" came to mind. I thought of a friend who recently described a confrontation. I had been concerned at how her response had apparently escalated the conversation. And I was reminded of my own response to someone who angered me and how I escalated the encounter---risking damaging the relationship.
And then there was another incident of someone else who had angered me and how I remained cool in the conversation. But I felt I really didn't express the angry feelings I was experiencing. I sort of wanted her to "know" I was angry by my coolness. I wanted her to ask me why I was angry.
Expressing anger is often a tough dilemma. It is a fine line between having the "right" to express our feelings and the risk of "damaging the relationship." Of course the expression of anger is often accompanied by a tone of accusation which certainly doesn't help the situation. In honesty, for me my anger is often tied into my "need" to control a situation. If someone isn't doing something in a manner I consider safe/helpful/considerate I have a tendency to "correct" them in what they consider an angry/controlling tone. And all I was trying to do was be helpful!!!
Oh my what a long way still to go!!!
This Lent I will work towards "metanoia"---not just giving up something but a change--a turning around of this anger---of this need for control.
How would that look?
Anything you'd really like to change, to focus on this Lent?
I will pray daily---probably many times a day---to reach for Christ in this.
Blessings-Penny
A number of recent "verbal confrontations" came to mind. I thought of a friend who recently described a confrontation. I had been concerned at how her response had apparently escalated the conversation. And I was reminded of my own response to someone who angered me and how I escalated the encounter---risking damaging the relationship.
And then there was another incident of someone else who had angered me and how I remained cool in the conversation. But I felt I really didn't express the angry feelings I was experiencing. I sort of wanted her to "know" I was angry by my coolness. I wanted her to ask me why I was angry.
Expressing anger is often a tough dilemma. It is a fine line between having the "right" to express our feelings and the risk of "damaging the relationship." Of course the expression of anger is often accompanied by a tone of accusation which certainly doesn't help the situation. In honesty, for me my anger is often tied into my "need" to control a situation. If someone isn't doing something in a manner I consider safe/helpful/considerate I have a tendency to "correct" them in what they consider an angry/controlling tone. And all I was trying to do was be helpful!!!
Oh my what a long way still to go!!!
This Lent I will work towards "metanoia"---not just giving up something but a change--a turning around of this anger---of this need for control.
How would that look?
Anything you'd really like to change, to focus on this Lent?
I will pray daily---probably many times a day---to reach for Christ in this.
Blessings-Penny
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
Am I that closed?
Recently I had a conversation with a woman going through what she considers to be a devastating break up of her family. One member of the family is choosing to move and not leave a forwarding address. The woman I was speaking with considers this a selfish, spoiled act that will leave her and other family members alone and distraught. I have to wonder what is "the rest of the story."
But since I don't know "the rest of the story" I attempted to give support for her sadness and anger. When any of us feel betrayed in a relationship we often get sad which then becomes anger.And we shut down. We close up. We take a position and we do not budge.We simply cannot look at the other person's needs.
Also when someone we love has been betrayed we often close down. We feel betrayed. We take their side and up the ante on the anger. In an effort to support, we feed into their closed position.
In betrayal we find it next to impossible to forgive---or move anywhere close to forgiveness. And yet Christ tells us we must forgive 70 times 7. Really? Forgive someone who has betrayed me or someone I love. Yep. That's what we are to do. We are to "go to them and reconcile."
If I can't do that--yet-- can I begin to pray to be more open? In a sermon on forgiveness I recently heard a priest talk about forgiveness in those terms.."maybe not yet, maybe not now but begin to pray to be open to the thought of forgiveness." Since I can't change him or change what is happening, what attitude am I to take? What will bring some peace to my heart?
Where in my life am I closed? When have I been unable to forgive? Where can I pray to change my attitude?
Blessings-Penny
But since I don't know "the rest of the story" I attempted to give support for her sadness and anger. When any of us feel betrayed in a relationship we often get sad which then becomes anger.And we shut down. We close up. We take a position and we do not budge.We simply cannot look at the other person's needs.
Also when someone we love has been betrayed we often close down. We feel betrayed. We take their side and up the ante on the anger. In an effort to support, we feed into their closed position.
In betrayal we find it next to impossible to forgive---or move anywhere close to forgiveness. And yet Christ tells us we must forgive 70 times 7. Really? Forgive someone who has betrayed me or someone I love. Yep. That's what we are to do. We are to "go to them and reconcile."
If I can't do that--yet-- can I begin to pray to be more open? In a sermon on forgiveness I recently heard a priest talk about forgiveness in those terms.."maybe not yet, maybe not now but begin to pray to be open to the thought of forgiveness." Since I can't change him or change what is happening, what attitude am I to take? What will bring some peace to my heart?
Where in my life am I closed? When have I been unable to forgive? Where can I pray to change my attitude?
Blessings-Penny
Sunday, January 31, 2016
Careful!
Yesterday when I checked my email for the first time that morning there was an email from one of my cousins. Gary and I are about the same age and are fairly close---for people who have never lived near each other as adults. But as teenagers we used to double date, were in each others weddings and generally have enjoyed each others company when we do get together. We talk on the phone maybe once a year. We visit every couple of years.
Gary was an airline pilot and in retirement he and his wife travel alot. And the email said, "I am in Greece; have been mugged and lost cash, billfold etc....Send money." No address given.
Now I've heard about all the scams and I really was suspicious immediately. For one thing, Gary has alot of money and has friends with alot more money than we have. One of my first thoughts was I would probably not be the first person Gary would contact for money. But I also thought that if he really was in trouble I would want to help. There were a couple of things that furthered my suspicion so after about an hour I picked up the phone and called his home number in Dallas. Sure enough Gary answered. It was a scam---his computer had been hacked.
Now I can't think of anything particularly spiritual to add to this blog---only that Gary and I had a good reconnection on a very personal level. Maybe one that we needed to have. His wife has been ill and he sounded tired.
Be careful of scams. Pick up the phone when you get a prompt to do that---maybe even if it feels like a scam. Is God prompting you? I don't know.I only know it felt good to talk with Gary.
Blessings-Penny
Gary was an airline pilot and in retirement he and his wife travel alot. And the email said, "I am in Greece; have been mugged and lost cash, billfold etc....Send money." No address given.
Now I've heard about all the scams and I really was suspicious immediately. For one thing, Gary has alot of money and has friends with alot more money than we have. One of my first thoughts was I would probably not be the first person Gary would contact for money. But I also thought that if he really was in trouble I would want to help. There were a couple of things that furthered my suspicion so after about an hour I picked up the phone and called his home number in Dallas. Sure enough Gary answered. It was a scam---his computer had been hacked.
Now I can't think of anything particularly spiritual to add to this blog---only that Gary and I had a good reconnection on a very personal level. Maybe one that we needed to have. His wife has been ill and he sounded tired.
Be careful of scams. Pick up the phone when you get a prompt to do that---maybe even if it feels like a scam. Is God prompting you? I don't know.I only know it felt good to talk with Gary.
Blessings-Penny
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Thanks
I really need to remind myself to stop and say "thanks." Thanks to God for all the blessings.
As evidenced by my last posting I can get sad, tense, angry, distracted by the disappointments that occur in my life and the lives of those I love...my grandson's Mersa infection that kept him out of a competitive part of the Marine Corps and devastated him, my grand daughter's not receiving an early admission to the college of her choice, my son's disappointment about the job. Mercy, mercy! They all seem so devastating at the time.
In reality my grandson is doing fine---though not as pleased with his enlistment as he might be; my grand daughter is aware she still has a very good chance of regular admission; my son will get a good job.
And the sun comes up every day; the moon sets over the mountains in the early morning; the geese honk as they fly over. Life does have lots of disappointments...friends with very sick spouses, financial problems, devastating storms and damage, the addiction rears its head. Life often does not unfold as we hope or plan.
Do I stop to remind myself of the blessings and to say thanks? Do I remember God promises, "I have called you by name; you are mine." I am His! Amazing!
You are His also. Whether you believe or not!
We need to rest in that promise.
Blessings-Penny
As evidenced by my last posting I can get sad, tense, angry, distracted by the disappointments that occur in my life and the lives of those I love...my grandson's Mersa infection that kept him out of a competitive part of the Marine Corps and devastated him, my grand daughter's not receiving an early admission to the college of her choice, my son's disappointment about the job. Mercy, mercy! They all seem so devastating at the time.
In reality my grandson is doing fine---though not as pleased with his enlistment as he might be; my grand daughter is aware she still has a very good chance of regular admission; my son will get a good job.
And the sun comes up every day; the moon sets over the mountains in the early morning; the geese honk as they fly over. Life does have lots of disappointments...friends with very sick spouses, financial problems, devastating storms and damage, the addiction rears its head. Life often does not unfold as we hope or plan.
Do I stop to remind myself of the blessings and to say thanks? Do I remember God promises, "I have called you by name; you are mine." I am His! Amazing!
You are His also. Whether you believe or not!
We need to rest in that promise.
Blessings-Penny
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
this parenting gig
I've known this since I had my first baby but it hits me every time----this parenting gig is never over! One of my sons has had a huge disappointment this past week. It is something that has embarrassed him and had an impact on his self image and self esteem. He says it is something that has put "a stink on him." My baby! My wonderful, talented, sensitive baby!
Now in reality he is a grown man, a successful man who will move on and use this disappointment for his growth in the future. But right now he is hurting---and I hurt. This parenting love just never ends.
I am to write a Lenten meditation for our church Lenten booklet. My assigned scriptural passage for this meditation is Isiah 42. God's promise in this chapter--"He who created the heavens and stretched them out...I will take your hand, I will keep you." And in Isiah 43 "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you: and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."
God's promises. Can I live into these promises in this pain? Can I open my hand so He can take it and keep me?
Can you?
Blessings-Penny
Now in reality he is a grown man, a successful man who will move on and use this disappointment for his growth in the future. But right now he is hurting---and I hurt. This parenting love just never ends.
I am to write a Lenten meditation for our church Lenten booklet. My assigned scriptural passage for this meditation is Isiah 42. God's promise in this chapter--"He who created the heavens and stretched them out...I will take your hand, I will keep you." And in Isiah 43 "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you: and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."
God's promises. Can I live into these promises in this pain? Can I open my hand so He can take it and keep me?
Can you?
Blessings-Penny
Monday, January 11, 2016
one out of three
As I have mentioned before two of my friends and I meet for coffee once a month just to talk. The goal is to talk about the important things that are going on in our lives. We don't offer advice. We don't counsel. We just listen. We do this because we each believe that it is so important just to be heard---to have someone who cares enough just to listen.
Saturday our conversation centered around our families of origin. The conversation started around concerns for one of our grown children and our own parenting practices. The conversation then moved to how we were parented. One friend talked about the perspective that we all tell ourselves stories in our heads---stories based on how we see (or saw) things---stories that might not be based in fact ---stories that other people might see very differently.
The other friend talked about her family of origin with such love. She talked about loving parents--a father who worked 2 jobs to make ends meet--a mother who stayed home with the 5 sisters and wouldn't let them buy the food stamp lunch card they were eligible for because it was a different color from the regular one---"She didn't want us to feel different...I didn't know we were poor until much later...a 3 bedroom 1 bath house with 5 girls and 2 parents....Everyone in the neighborhood was the same so we didn't feel poor...They all just did the best they could with what they had."
Myself and the other friend listened with genuine envy. We each came from troubled, rather chaotic families---alcohol, early death of one parent, siblings with major problems. However each of us knew we were deeply loved and would never be abandoned.
The three of us are confronted with many of the same issues now....jobs, retirement, communication, relationships, financial. The friend from the loving home frames her perspectives in "we/they are doing the best they can with what they have." The other friend and myself seem to be not as accepting---we seem to want to "do something"--fix it.
Is it the difference in the homes we were raised in?---the problems that always seemed to need fixing?
One family out of three was "healthy?" That seems about right--maybe a little high??
Today I will ask God to help me "do the best I can with what I have."
Blessings-Penny
Saturday our conversation centered around our families of origin. The conversation started around concerns for one of our grown children and our own parenting practices. The conversation then moved to how we were parented. One friend talked about the perspective that we all tell ourselves stories in our heads---stories based on how we see (or saw) things---stories that might not be based in fact ---stories that other people might see very differently.
The other friend talked about her family of origin with such love. She talked about loving parents--a father who worked 2 jobs to make ends meet--a mother who stayed home with the 5 sisters and wouldn't let them buy the food stamp lunch card they were eligible for because it was a different color from the regular one---"She didn't want us to feel different...I didn't know we were poor until much later...a 3 bedroom 1 bath house with 5 girls and 2 parents....Everyone in the neighborhood was the same so we didn't feel poor...They all just did the best they could with what they had."
Myself and the other friend listened with genuine envy. We each came from troubled, rather chaotic families---alcohol, early death of one parent, siblings with major problems. However each of us knew we were deeply loved and would never be abandoned.
The three of us are confronted with many of the same issues now....jobs, retirement, communication, relationships, financial. The friend from the loving home frames her perspectives in "we/they are doing the best they can with what they have." The other friend and myself seem to be not as accepting---we seem to want to "do something"--fix it.
Is it the difference in the homes we were raised in?---the problems that always seemed to need fixing?
One family out of three was "healthy?" That seems about right--maybe a little high??
Today I will ask God to help me "do the best I can with what I have."
Blessings-Penny
Friday, January 8, 2016
Wondering
Sometimes I sit here by the window wondering what to write about. What might have some meaning for people who read this? What are they concerned about?
Several things go through my mind> things like the stress/anxiety/fears of the mother I wrote about several weeks ago. Her mentally ill son was hospitalized in a local emergency room because there was no room in any psyc. facility or group home for him with his recent aggressive behavior. He was kept in that emergency room for over a month!!! Talk about no room at the inn!! Finally last Monday a place was obtained in a group home. How will he adjust?? How can this horrific care be happening in this wealthy country?
Then there is the 83 year old friend who feels her doctors don't talk to each other or have any idea about her conditions. Frightened.
The Grief and Hope Group last Monday---a feeling that it is becoming a worthwhile group.
Then I sit here and see 4 yellow finches nibbling on the crepe myrtle tree seeds on my patio. It's January in Las Vegas!! Miracles.
Do you get confused?
Life is really a mystery. God holds me in my confusion.
Blessings-Penny
Several things go through my mind> things like the stress/anxiety/fears of the mother I wrote about several weeks ago. Her mentally ill son was hospitalized in a local emergency room because there was no room in any psyc. facility or group home for him with his recent aggressive behavior. He was kept in that emergency room for over a month!!! Talk about no room at the inn!! Finally last Monday a place was obtained in a group home. How will he adjust?? How can this horrific care be happening in this wealthy country?
Then there is the 83 year old friend who feels her doctors don't talk to each other or have any idea about her conditions. Frightened.
The Grief and Hope Group last Monday---a feeling that it is becoming a worthwhile group.
Then I sit here and see 4 yellow finches nibbling on the crepe myrtle tree seeds on my patio. It's January in Las Vegas!! Miracles.
Do you get confused?
Life is really a mystery. God holds me in my confusion.
Blessings-Penny
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Year in PREview
Now the newspaper is full of things we "should" do in the coming year---get fit, eat right, lose weight, make a bucket list, get organized, tidy up.
And the priest on New Years Day said, "Quit sniping and laugh more." That was it. That was the sermon. Well, there was a little bit more to it but the part I took out of the church was, "quit sniping and laugh more." What peace that would bring into my world if I quit "sniping" (criticizing) and laughed more? That means taking things--life---others---politics---people (some relatives!) less seriously and with more laughter.
Would more laughter make your life more peaceful?
When? How? It might take some focus to make this happen.
Will my children, my spouse, my co-workers notice a difference?
How will that look on New Years Day 2017?
Each day upon awakening can we ask God to give us the grace to laugh more?
Blessing--Penny
And the priest on New Years Day said, "Quit sniping and laugh more." That was it. That was the sermon. Well, there was a little bit more to it but the part I took out of the church was, "quit sniping and laugh more." What peace that would bring into my world if I quit "sniping" (criticizing) and laughed more? That means taking things--life---others---politics---people (some relatives!) less seriously and with more laughter.
Would more laughter make your life more peaceful?
When? How? It might take some focus to make this happen.
Will my children, my spouse, my co-workers notice a difference?
How will that look on New Years Day 2017?
Each day upon awakening can we ask God to give us the grace to laugh more?
Blessing--Penny
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