It is that time of year when many patriotic thoughts arise as we see the flag flying high in the sky. I am very impressed in my travels to note where homes fly the flag on a daily basis.
Episode 126: Time to Clutter-Bust →
The other day as I observed the creative clutter on my desk and in my life, I decided that I better get the clutter-busting going. Suddenly I became energized to get rid of any cabin fever I had and begin some spring house cleaning activities. After a week of spring weather in February, I realized that the calendar does not lie. It still is winter for a few more days. This brings memories for me of the spring house cleaning time years ago, and how extensive we went into going into all those expedient tasks. I am still able to recall the years when this spring house cleaning was a major enterprise. One would begin in January to clean closets drawers and kitchen cupboards. And we managed to declutter our home and prepare for the major spring cleaning. Since I failed these tasks in January, I knew I would have to develop a battle plan.
Episode 80: Forgiving Others →
In last week's column, it was mentioned that January 21st is National Hugging Day. I also read about Thank You Day being in January. And the last week in January has long been known as International Forgiveness Week. The other morning I was listening on the radio, and heard it say that a noted doctor stated that, "70% of the people would be released from hospitals in 24, hours, if they knew they were forgiven." A French philosopher once said that, "To know all is to forgive all." Among my heroes of faith are many missionary friends whose forgiving heart has taken them to their former captors. That is the story of St. Patrick who went back to Ireland as a Christian missionary to take the love of Christ. A well known missionary and author of many books, worked among the people who killed her husband, and other missionaries. There are many heroes of faith, who live a life of daily forgiveness. Forgiveness is the mark of maturity. Life is too short to hold a grudge. Harry E. Fosdick once said, "Hating people is like burning down your home to get rid of a rat." The inability to forgive and forget, is what makes one sick. As we have many warm thoughts on forgiveness during International Forgiveness Week, may we remember, there is a little remedy to ease the life we live and make each day, a happier one - it is the word, forgive.
Episode 79: Warm Thoughts by the Fireside →
The home fires may be burning in your home, as we together listen on the radio and watch TV, about the travel challenges many are facing throughout the country. Upon my return from travel to Seattle during the holiday season I was welcomed with 20 degree below zero weather. However, my heart was warmed as I listened to the phone messages and read the many cards, letters and precious thoughts, which I received. You all really made my day! Among the thoughts sent to me was a letter from my friend Dr. Green in Vermillion, South Dakota. She included thoughts from an unknown author, which I feel are so warm and precious - indeed to be shared with you, dear readers of this warm thoughts column.