In our chaotic, broken and hurting world, it does us good to stop, see and celebrate small acts of love, compassion, goodness, mercy, justice and kindness. Outside this local church in suburban Washington DC, passers by are being invited to write on purple ribbons examples of these acts they see in their lives. It was … Continue reading Ribbons of hope
Gratitude
Margin and surprise
First work flight of the year today and it was delayed. Nothing unusual about that for me. But I’ve been writing and leading some sessions on building more margin into busy lives. So, I’ve decided to try and see flight delays this year as added margin! I don’t like delays, detours, queues, unexpected waits. But … Continue reading Margin and surprise
Cherishing togetherness
A house full of people last night. Great conversations, good food, stories, listening, laughter and lament. And throw in my daughter and her friends having a sleepover here as well. The joy of community. I wanted to cling on to that last night, even more than usual, in these stretching times. It’s good to journey … Continue reading Cherishing togetherness
Good tears
As Arli was put to sleep for surgery yesterday I held his hand. I’ve been in this place with him several times before. I remember holding his hand when he was two and had his first surgery. He didn’t understand what was happening around him. I did and I was praying hard for my little … Continue reading Good tears
Pooling our presence
A young man waits by the hydrotherapy pool with his mother. I don’t know his story - but it’s evident he lives with some significant physical challenges. Suddenly his physiotherapist walks into the pool area and the young man’s face lights up. He doesn’t speak, but his face and actions say it all. He shuffles … Continue reading Pooling our presence
Drinking from the cup of nostalgia
My pre-dinner drink this evening is taking me back to my childhood. A glass of cold, Cottee’s Coola Lime. And my younger kids – who have never sampled this lime wonder in a glass – are enjoying this sweet blast from my past. It has been a long time since my last glass of this … Continue reading Drinking from the cup of nostalgia
A trifecta to master
Home! It’s always good to be home. And now to heed the advice I’m getting from all sides. “Take things slowly. Be patient. Be kind to yourself.” Now, I must admit this self-care trifecta is always a work in progress for me. May be these three things come easily for you. They don't for me. … Continue reading A trifecta to master
A gratitude posture
I had a rough night in ICU with pain after surgery and a bad reaction to some stong meds. But throughout the night, Oish my nurse provided with me excellent, calm, patient, assuring care. It made such a difference. I’m mindful again today of the amazing work of health professionals and carers across the nation. … Continue reading A gratitude posture
Bridges not walls
“Take our country back” is one of the catch cries for tomorrow’s March for Australia. But here’s where the premise of the march fails. Yes, those that will march tomorrow are a part of our country, and they have the right to peacefully protest. But Australia is no more “their country” than a beautiful Nepali-born … Continue reading Bridges not walls
Double down
As I read the news of the world this morning, my heart ached and I was struck by how dire, overwhelming and chaotic things seem. As I was reading, the words "double down" kept echoing in my mind. They are not words I often use. But yes, they are words for me in a season … Continue reading Double down
apilgrimpens 