Photo: A visit with my dear friend, Bibi Sangho, in Mali. It was days away from a much anticipated trip to Mali when I awoke to the news that there was a terrorist attack in Paris, where I had planned to spend three days enjoying time alone wandering the streets of the Marais district. The layover in Paris had to be canceled. Disappointing, but at … Continue reading Favor, and True Wealth
One of the things I have come to realize with age is this: numbers don’t always deliver. If you are trying to lose weight, it can be helpful to count calories or Weight Watchers points to reach a healthy goal. Numbers on the scale give you an idea of your progress. On the other hand, facing the actual size of your heft can mock you … Continue reading The Tally, and Grace
If she shows up at my office door, I don’t have to look at the calendar to know that we are nearing the end of the month. She needs money. I know what she needs it for. She needs cigarette money. I have actually given it to her in the past, initially surprised at my own lowered standards. But she suffers from mental illness, and … Continue reading Coming Up Empty
I chose curiosity. When someone close to me came out, she was anxious about the reaction of her family. My go-to response to all personal revelations is to assure each person that I will always love them, no matter what. I believe this gut reaction was cultivated in me by my parents, who have demonstrated deep and unconditional love for all six of their children, Runaway … Continue reading Curiosity as Faith
Words matter. I realized this early on, so that when I was still in elementary school, if somebody asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, my answer was “a poet.” I can’t say I have actually developed the talent for that, but words still move me deeply, and I strive to craft my sermons and essays thoughtfully. Language is often the … Continue reading Second Person Singular
saint sinner seeker 