Keep Dancing

When I was growing up in Church, I was taught that I shouldn't 'dance, drink, curse or go with girls who do!' But in adulthood one of the most important lessons we learn in life is ‘life's a dance'. Sometimes we lead,and sometimes we follow.

Have You Seen Jesus?

Throughout world history many have claimed to see unusual places, activities, and even living beings. Some have truthfully witnessed what they claim. Often, however, if another has not seen what is claimed, then doubt is thrown upon the person and their claim.

The Faith of a Child!

Kids do dumb things! I also include myself in that group. In my first preaching ministry in Carlsbad, New Mexico, the church secretary had a little toddler by the name of Gary Dean.

“I’ll Do It Later…Much Later”

Everyone knows how to procrastinate – including me. I decided about two months ago to write this column. Finally, today I had to force myself to sit down and begin. Why? Why do we humans put off doing what we know we need to do? From what I have observed, the animal kingdom doesn’t do that. Just us.

Where’s Your Name Written?

It was his first real job. It was payday. Exciting! But, no paycheck. He had bills to pay, things to do. No money. He went to HR, where there was a copy of his cashed check. “It looks like your signature to me,” the HR person said. “No, that’s not my signature! There’s a thief, but it’s not me!

. . . from the Pastor’s Desk

I want to give tribute to our fathers; those alive and those deceased. The unfortunate thing about this topic is that I spent a lot of time this week remembering my best friend and my hero—my father. He went home to be with the Lord 15 years ago February 29 th.

Are You Grieving?

Losing a loved one is not an easy ordeal. Grief of any kind takes an emotional toll on whomever it affects. The grieving process is difficult but necessary for proper recovery from the traumatic event that causes grief. Having lost a loved one, this chaplain understands how grieving works.

Beware of STUG!

Have you ever come across a new word that strikes you as so good you wonder why you hadn't heard of it before? I’ve found a new word for grief. STUG! Coined by Therese Rando, it just makes total sense and sounds a bit more upbeat than Grief Triggers.

Living With Our Loses!

Scissortail Hospice Chaplain Bristow, Oklahoma We often think of losing a loved one when we think of a loss, but loss can be much more than that. A loss can range from giving up on a dream, to changes in a friendship, to disappointments, to betrayal.

Thinking Out Loud

In the years of serving as youth minister, preaching minister, and now a hospice chaplain, the strongest regrets emanate from those who have lost a loved one to death. I have heard laments from 'I wish,' 'if only,' 'it's not fair,' and 'why?' just to name a few.