Category: Tragedy

Recently, I returned from an amazing honeymoon voyage to the Virgin Islands. As our ship docked, we were in breathtaking awe of the pristine clear blue waters and lush tropical hillsides. We were greeted by locals dressed in colorful costumes representing their indigenous culture and dancing to Caribbean music. Quaint shops lined the historic avenues and street vendors displayed their wares with cheerful enthusiasm. One could not help but be taken away on a warm breeze of excitement. Taxi drivers lined the avenues willing to take you on tours of their treasured island for this is the home of THE “Treasure Island” boasting the resting place of much famous pirate booty, ship wrecks, water wonders with many colorful species of coral (who knew “fire coral” is a thing); animals, military forts, historic landmarks, and much tropical horticulture.

Joining other eager tourists, we commandeered a taxi bound for the other side of the is ...

There have been some dry spells this summer, and my withering and parched lawn was certainly showing the effects of it. My first inclination was to swing into rescue mode and haul the hose out for daily watering, believing that I was doing the best for it, and keeping it ultra-hydrated and from as much distress as possible. A little research on lawn care showed me that this well-intentioned, extra care and attention routine could actually be hurting my lawn and creating shallow root systems and an inability to withstand the rigors of future heat and drought.

It is natural to want to escape suffering as soon as possible and not live in discomfort. We usually want the quick and easy way out. As a parent, I have found it difficult at times to watch my children struggle with various challenges that they have faced. The temptation is to step in and take over or rescue them from the difficulty rather than have them suffer. Yet, I know that ...

On May 24, 2022 a gunman carrying two semi-automatic rifles walked into Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas and violently took the lives of 19 children and 2 teachers. When a tragedy like this happens in our nation, it shocks us to our core. Words fail as we struggle to make sense of something so senseless. The pain and rage of one young man being multiplied, amplified, taking on a life of its own and sending shockwaves reverberating through the lives of countless others. The death toll is currently 21, but the impact will be felt by millions.

There are some predictable responses to a school shooting like this. Politicians will circle the wagons, seizing the opportunity provided by the crisis to gain momentum for or against gun restrictions. Some will offer thoughts. Some will offer prayers. Pundits and social media influencers will take sides in the culture war, feeding into the outrage and heartache of a grieving nati ...