I close my computer with a snap. My inbox is full of deals and manufactured delights. Ads assail me at every turn, and "influencers" flood my feeds with their lists of favorites and affiliate links. I raise my head for the first time in hours, and the room sways momentarily. As my eyes adjust, they ... Read More about Hope Made Human: An Advent Reflection
A Prayer for Feasting and Gathering
Gracious God, satisfy me with the nourishment of good food and meaningful words to occupy the empty, waiting spaces of body and soul. May my full mouth and satiated body be the embodied expression of my thanks. My spoon and plate and bowl and cup overflow with Your goodness. I sense You ... Read More about A Prayer for Feasting and Gathering
The Power of Stories
Every two years, the Writing Department at my university chooses a campus book which all freshman are required to read in their first year. We invite the author of the book to visit to speak to students about their work, and last week, author and poet Jimmy Santiago Baca, spoke to us about his life ... Read More about The Power of Stories
Beholding Beauty: Choosing Rest over Obligation
This fall, I accidentally began working full time as a tutor/professor/writer. Because my work is stitched together from disparate pieces, the hours added up to more than I anticipated. It's good work, and each element works synergistically with the others. I'm lucky in this way--every hour I spend ... Read More about Beholding Beauty: Choosing Rest over Obligation
Leaving Your Mark
When we moved into our home six years ago, the oak floorboards in the kitchen and family room needed refinishing after accumulating the scars and scratches of two decades of family life. The wood floor was a testament to all the life that took place under this roof: the deep grooves from shifting ... Read More about Leaving Your Mark
Memories of Knowing: A Reflection on Parenting
While waiting to board a flight to Nashville yesterday, a father sat across from me speaking to his son via FaceTime. He called his son by name, asked simple questions about his boy’s day, and remarked on an upcoming soccer game. I guessed that the boy, Wyatt, was young, which his father confirmed ... Read More about Memories of Knowing: A Reflection on Parenting
