Eliminating martyrdom from tradition The Christmas season was very busy for my father, a pastor. He coordinated extra services, music, stress, and a packed sanctuary for several Christmas services. Mother was baking and decorating and shopping and wrestling four kids … Read More
The Shepherds wield their crooks like jousting swords I sat at the back of the church so I could leave with my rambunctious three-year-old if necessary. He was wearing a cowboy hat everywhere, so he wore his cowboy hat to the … Read More
The Fallen Woman watches the Falling Man I was lying on my back looking at the sky when I decided to move away from Minnesota. The black ice was invisible as I stepped out my door, and the next thing … Read More
Where scenery or time or companions or mentors motivate My writer’s retreat cabin was perched on the edge of a large pond in the high desert. We were a small group, and joined twice daily in meetings in the lodge, … Read More
Inside serenity contrasts with the outside concrete fortress “The mission of an architect is to help people understand how to make life more beautiful, the world a better one for living in, and to give reason, rhyme, and meaning to … Read More
Mary might listen raptly, but she could get ear pods and help The smell of coffee from a percolator filled the living room when my mother hosted the Martha Circle. Ladies’ aid circles were a tradition in our community. My … Read More
“Remember his name?” “No, but I know who you mean.” Me: “I love this place. It has a French name, so it seems tonier, even if it isn’t.” Friend: “Yes, it’s La Providence, right?” Me: “La Provence, but you were … Read More
His wife is now fashion-plate and paparazzi quest I feel sorry for Camilla, Queen Consort. She is 75, and the object of photographers and fashion writers. She has to dress up, wear good shoes, and have her hair done. During … Read More
Rereading influential novels at an older age can change their meaning The Summer Before the Dark by Doris Lessing (1973) was a book I misunderstood as about the onset of older age and menopause. The book as I read it … Read More
The Coast Starlight charges through the mountains It is 11 a.m. and the sun barely skirts the mountain top, striking the aspens bright yellow. The poplars are golden against the dusky lodgepole pine. The train is moving slowly, yet again, … Read More