One of my favorite winter coats of all time was one my mother-in-law purchased for me. She called me one day shortly before lunch to ask me to meet her in another part of town. She had found a coat for me and wanted me to try it on. It…
In one of the small towns in which we resided, the city ordinances still allow for the burning of leaves, as long as the forecast calls for low or light wind conditions. I was burning some leaves one fall day at about dusk when I had to go in the…
When I was a young girl, my grandfather began showing the early signs of dementia. Although the family helped wherever they could, my grandmother bore the bulk of responsibility for his care. Through all the stages of his decline, I watched as she lovingly endured his confusion, mild hostility toward…
When considering the aspect of love that dictates we “bear all things,” it is important to remember another definition of the word. “Bear” means to endure an ordeal or difficulty. And, to clarify, endure means tolerating or putting up with something, especially something unpleasant. So let’s replay a few typical…
Who doesn’t want to be loved? At the very core of our being, we desire affection, respect, consideration, and appreciation. We need it, even when we are in an unlovable state. We need to give it when others are in the same state. To wholeheartedly love means much more than…