daily life as life goes on . . .

Nine years ago today my first wife, Jill, passed away.  Today I was with a friend who asked me about her passing.  This was her birthday, and she remembered Jill well.  Especially that she passed away on her birthday. 

There is a sense in which time heals. 

I have been stretched for the good!  I make my own meals and do my own laundry – things that Jill graciously and happily did for me.  I have carried forth dreams of ministry that we shared together. 

That does not mean that I do not miss her.  I do. 

With fondness I hear someone playing a piano with skill and emotion – and I am transported back.  I enjoy a home crafted meal (that I didn’t make) – and I remember health and wellness that came from a cook’s ability. 

I am thankful today!  Blessings come our way.  In packages we love to unwrap and in the releasing of gifts we have been given for but a short time.

I try to pray the Lord’s prayer each day.  Recently I decided to summarize some of what I have learned from the prayer:

• Our Father – you are what we aren’t
• Bring us closer to you
• Give us enough to live on each day
• Help us to live with others
• Keep us out of trouble
• You can do it

My computer hard drive decided to melt-down – it’s mental health burned out.

Some, but not all, was backed up.  Most things nowadays go on the cloud – so not a great problem.  The work to renew my computer and the cost were affordable.

As I reflected on this “catastrophe”, I’ve begun to see this as a “do over”.  Some of my original settings and approaches were normal when a better practice was available.  So, I’m searching out better practice right now.  Starting over with a bit of wisdom behind me. 

Not a bad place to be!

The outspoken. The rebels.  The thinkers.

Today on a Facebook thread, I came across some of my former colleagues.  Ones I enjoyed being around and encouraging.

They were articulate, passionate and on the “other” side of the discussion! 

Which goes to show that perhaps I have this streak in me that just likes the rebels!