Despite all the healing work I’ve done on myself, a sense of inferiority clings to me and sometimes gets in the way. It is part of the legacy of toxic shame I have not completely shed, not to mention all the cultural messages we get about what it means to be successful. You see, I […]
Spirituality
Practicing Wisdom in These Divided Times
The best criticism of the bad is the practice of the better. ~#3 of 8 Core Principles of the Center for Action and Contemplation In Richard Rohr’s October 3 daily meditation, he says that St. Francis knew that oppositional energy creates more of the same. And so, rather than fighting systems directly and risking becoming […]
Six Lessons About Living and Dying:
The World According to Debra Winegarten One year ago today, “The Debster” as Deb was affectionately called, made her transition. She was one of the most generous persons I have ever met. In 2017, I wrote about the great gift she gave to me as my memoir, A Long Awakening to Grace, was published. Here […]
My Testimony
A weight lifted I left church this morning with my shoulders straighter and my head held higher. I could feel a weight lifted. I came out … in church. I was REAL about the shame I carry around sex. So much support My friends are a blessing. Seven came to give me support. Most of […]
I Never Could Have Imagined
The Beginning It is 3 pm on July 4. I plop on the couch for an afternoon nap after a pleasant morning with my daughter and some friends at the annual parade. Friends are due to arrive at 6 to watch a movie. My cell phone rings. My pastor’s name appears on caller ID. I’m […]
at the root of this longing
Several years ago, this book caught my attention. I loved the title, especially the subtitle, and the cover. When I began reading it, I found I had a lot more to love. The author, Carol Lee Flinders, received a doctorate and taught about the literature of medieval women’s mysticism … a way of seeing that […]