The stuff that my kids say really blows my mind sometimes. There is so much excitement and imagination that if it were not for my one year old throwing is bowl of food to the floor and making noises at high volume that he is finished with the meal time I could just sit and … More What Children See.
Today is a gift. This breath and the next should never be taken for granted. I believe that if we are willing, we can recall the shock, horror, and fear of this day 11 years ago. I for one will not forget (nor will any of you), but I believe that many of us are weighed down with our burdens today that remembrance … More Hope in this momentary affliction
There is nothing more frustrating than communication breakdown and yet we all know that communication is essential for everything. Work, relationships, parenting, coaching, teaching, pretty much everything. We know it, but here is the kicker….in order for communication to happen there needs to be both speaking and listening. At some point along the way we … More I would like, um.. you to…..what I mean is……..forget it.
I don’t know what it was like for you, but in our house today there was great excitement about the new beginning that is the first day of school. I would not go so far as to say that it was a celebration, but it was certainly not a downer. One the first day of … More Who do you see in the mirror?
As the earth brings forth its plants, and a garden makes its growth spring up, so will the Lord God make justice and praise spring up before all the nations. Isaiah 61:11 This morning this image struck with such power and caused me to pause. The more I think on this the more I cherish the … More Stepping forward into Hope
I would like to think that I am generally a decent person and that I don’t rub most people the wrong way. In fact, I think that is a fairly safe self assessment. Does that make me good? Maybe, but I think the more appropriate word is “nice.” I am a nice guy. Sometimes I foul up. … More Restored to Love
Are we really going off the rails like a crazy train? Crazy, but that’s how it goes Millions of people living as foes Maybe it’s not too late To learn how to love And forget how to hate It’s kind of bizarre to me that of all people Ozzy makes the best point about our … More The Heart is our Throne
Recently I read a survey that said that people in the United States would generally agree that there has been a rise in incivility in both the public and private sectors. Sometimes people say that they are not meaning to offend, but they are merely being honest or blunt in order to express themselves authentically. … More Offense: A Vicious Cycle
Rev. Shawn J. Smith 