“Whom the gods would destroy, they first make mad” is a quote that has been attributed to Euripides, Seneca, as well as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, with some nuancing in each version.  The image is searing by all accounts.  There is the theme of destruction by gods and the implication that the destruction is accomplished primarily by driving those destroyed into madness. …

I have vivid memories as a child of our family boating excursions on the Amite River.  Water-skiing was one of our favorite outings during the Spring and Summer months, and into the fall and winter given Louisiana’s climate.  After learning how to get up on two water skis, I distinctly remember my Mom telling me that I could not get back into the boat until I learned to get up on one ski. …

Imagine yourself in a restaurant.  It’s quite busy, you’ve just been seated and you become aware of the other tables around you.  There is a diversity of conversations going on.  Some people are laughing, others seem to be arguing.  Then there’s the “planning” table where perhaps the wife is telling the husband the schedule for the rest of the day or perhaps the whole week. …

Efficacy is a curious consideration. When we say that something is efficacious, normally we mean that what was intended in a certain project actually occurred.  In other words, the intended effect can be seen. Perhaps we are even made aware that the intent was actualized because those “affected” by the intentions actually express to you that they “got it,” and sometimes they are even thankful. …

Zion said, “The LORD has forsaken me;
my LORD has forgotten me.”
Can a mother forget her infant,
be without tenderness for the child of her womb?
Even should she forget,
I will never forget you.” ‘ (IS 49:14-15)

A friend of mine recently had a very disturbing experience. …