I’ve had trouble knowing when to count and when not to. Take for example, March of 1996. Guest after guest stopped by our apartment for a bite to eat. At the time, our family was living in Mongolia, where both giving and receiving hospitality is a privilege. Placing a candy bowl on the table, …
Are there ethics that should apply to our writing?
A school teacher has an ethical approach to her teaching. We could call it her PHILOSOPHY of teaching. Written or not, she acts out her philosophy over and over again, the EVIDENCE found in the MOMENTS that make up a school day. As a teacher myself, I respect the individual and his or her right to …
Happy Easter!
…
Not in Kansas Anymore–New world traveler finds a way to feel at home!
You know it’s the car ride home when you hear these lyrics. In all seriousness, we have a playlist on our phones titled “Car Ride Home”! It’s full of bluegrass songs from the Franz Family. We recently discovered it’s the only music that soothes our son on the car ride home. I’m amazed but not …
Born in South Africa, Carol shares: ECHOES of JOY from OUR LAMENT
There are some days where every little detail that occurred is embedded in your memory. So powerful is your recall that nothing can erase or wash that memory from your mind. The truth is, that each event, whether good, bad, happy or sad is part of us. Our past is an intrinsic piece of our …
Your Family is your first culture
My goal, as I sit here in my bedroom is to prove to you that your backstory is the family setting that you experienced growing up. Not only that, we could call this family setting your FIRST CULTURE. I’m sitting in my favorite red chair which has an amazing backstory of its own, but I’ll save …
The Ultimate Author
Some call Shakespeare the quintessential author, the crafter of the perfect plot. His characters burst from the scenes of his famous plays. Hamlet, one of the tragic heroes, seems to be as real as real can be. Author and speaker Timothy Keller* asks a strange question in regard to Hamlet. …
Writing Tip #1: Start With the Familiar
Let's say I'm taking my first overseas adventure to the continent of Africa. I'm pretty nervous about it, but I'm thankful that my friend Vivian in Nigeria will be there to greet me at the airport. Before I take off, she reassures me that all airports are pretty much alike and that the one in St. …