The Way

I am sure that many from my generation (basically, not as old as dirt, but not young either) thought of Michael Jackson when you read the title. It is true, that without change, we will not become who we are designed to be. I really am one that says that I embrace change, but actually at times, I take change very hard. We have been through some amazing change in recent days at my job. Many have lost their jobs and that is always difficult. Many people have been displaced. From all that I hear, my employer did a very fair job of taking care of those displaced by offering career counseling and a number of other helpful resources. I experience some survivor's guilt every time there is a downsizing in employees and always remain grateful that I get to do what I get to do. My personal challenge is to never grow lazy or complacent in my job or in any phase of my life. I am beginning to learn that change really can be a very positive thing and without change, we would die. My hea...

I realize with a title like that I am potentially opening myself to a lot of sarcasm from those who know me well. I am NOT a lot of things: - a great athlete - a math whiz (Sondra is keenly aware of this one) - very good at staying up late (I get up too early I suppose) - very quiet in the stands when watching ballgames (thus give me a mic and let me announce) - a very good romantic (confession on Valentine's Day) - an extrovert (I have an adapted style of relating to others and genuinely like people, just my strength is gained in solitude) - an unselfish person - non-judgmental - gracious as my default - on and on, ad nauseum What I am longing NOT to be is the center of my universe. I am really good at convincing myself that the world and God for that matter, revolve around me. It shows itself in so many ways. You might be able to relate to a couple and unfortunately, you have seen these in me. - hollering at officials/refs who are lazy and do not get in position to ...

I, many times find myself saying, "huh?" when people try to lead the conversation towards anything too very deep. I am pretty simple minded. Lately, I have been thrown into conversations related to chemistry, geometry, and even Calvinism. Schnikeees! I guess I should have paid more attention in high school, college and seminary. I know enough about each one to be really dangerous. I mean no disrespect, I just do not understand why people want to battle over everything. I am not Michael Jackson struggling with, "I'm a lover, not a fighter," but I am concerned that many would rather fight than win. Now you are saying, huh? Fight just for the sake of fighting? Have you ever known people who are not happy unless they are fighting or causing trouble? Seems like an oxymoron, I know, but some people are only "happy" when they are mad or fighting. At least that is my assessment. Here is what I believe and know: Christ died for all. Not all will accept H...