The word ‘advent’ signifies a coming or an arrival. Often, when we consider the church season of Advent, we focus solely on the aspect of anticipation. However, this perspective overlooks the profound reality of what has already transpired, what already exists. We are immersed in the Christic Presence. All that is required is for us … Continue reading Advent: Embracing the Arrival
In the iconic sword duel from the movie “The Princess Bride,” Inigo Montoya battles a masked man, admiring his swordsmanship and acrobatics. When Inigo presses for the man’s identity, he’s met with the response, “Get used to disappointment.” This line has resonated with me deeply. Disappointment is essentially the failure of our hopes or expectations … Continue reading Get Used to Disappointment
This morning, I awoke to a stark realization: one of my most significant challenges is a desperate quest for control—control over my life and aspects of the larger world that, in my mind, I could manage better than those currently at the helm. Even when I whisper to myself, “I surrender,” there’s a paradox at … Continue reading Desperately Seeking Control
Have you ever felt defined by a mistake, as though a single error could encapsulate your entire identity? It’s common to attach our self-worth to our achievements or failures. Recently, I encountered a similar situation that offered a profound lesson in self-perception and value. The Incident: I love baking; it’s one of my ways to … Continue reading The Cake Incident: A Lesson Beyond Baking
Have you ever looked at the world and wondered what your role in its transformation could be? I have recently been observing the state of our world with a sense of growing concern. It's evident in the disarray of our personal, political, social, and international relationships. And when we consider our track record in caring … Continue reading Manifesting Love
For much of my life, I've been journeying along the spiritual path, following Jesus. Initially, this journey was about "believing" in Jesus as the embodiment of Christ in human form. As someone who finds comfort in intellect, the concept of belief suited me. Over time, I began to see belief as more than an idea; … Continue reading Long on this Path
I was looking at my list of items to accomplish today. As I pondered the list, an overwhelming sense of dread began to build. Each task, while necessary, feels like a small chip away at my freedom, making my free spirit feel hemmed in. This dichotomy between spiritual understanding and daily tasks often leaves me … Continue reading Always One More Thing
Every morning, I find myself seated in this chair, or another, when I’m elsewhere. I’ve come to anticipate that sitting here will usher in a sense of inner peace, enabling me to face life’s chaos with greater ease. Gradually, I’m realizing that neither the chair nor its location is magical. The practice itself is just … Continue reading Seeking Peace and Wholeness
In my usual morning spot, I sit, gazing through the window at the neighboring tree. The bright yellows have faded to browns, leaving much empty space. The tree has shed its leaves, which served it faithfully through spring and summer. I ponder: Is it easy for trees to relinquish their leaves annually? This question lingers … Continue reading The Leaves through my Window
Observing Western society's attitudes towards the body, I've noted a contradictory approach. We both idolize and denigrate the body, reflecting a deep conflict in our cultural values. On one side, we see the glorification of physical perfection in athletes, actors, and models, signifying a collective obsession with physical appearance. This adulation often ignores deeper values, … Continue reading Embracing the Body as a Gift
Infinitely Precious 