“Family” can mean many things to different people.  For many of us, family is a source of security and acceptance, love, belonging, support, and challenge.  For others of us, family can mean unacceptance, rejection, abandonment, abuse, exclusion and pain.  Despite the associations that we have with “family,” it seems clear that there is a sense of the “familiar” here. …

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”…

Have you ever looked at someone with intent and wonder?   This is a look that moves beyond judgment and looks deep into the mystery of Who is here in this person.  When this happens, you begin to become aware of how wondrous this person is – the untold stories of strength, pain, joy, fear, and everything else that may never have surfaced even in behavior.  …

Pain Perdu is French for “lost bread,” which is a recipe for re-enlivening stale bread.  Not only does the recipe save what would normally be thrown out, but it flavors it up to a delicacy even, with a uniqueness that transforms simple stale bread into a sweet flavored treat. …

I have to admit that many times I squirm when I hear someone say, “it is the will of God,” when referring to something that has happened, many times something inexplicable and very painful.  I feel certain that many times this statement is given with the best intentions and is given as an expression of solace and condolences especially when there has been a great loss. …