Recovery. Sobriety. Living Wise.
Oath of Jurors: It is your duty to base your verdict solely upon the evidence, without prejudice or sympathy. I was recently called for jury duty and learned a thing or two about the jurors’ oath. Rendering a verdict solely upon the evidence, without prejudice or sympathy, ain’t that easy. I found I was a guy filled with his own peculiar brand of bias cleverly disguised … Continue reading Beyond Bias
The concepts of sin and confession have gone out of fashion. The images of a judgmental and retributive God that they conjure have been replaced with an emphasis on love and understanding in many faith circles. I’m definitely not a fan of going back to a place in our culture that was condemnatory, but can we really access the full joy of grace without confession? … Continue reading Confession is Good for the Soul (by Eileen)
Marsha and I live near a bluff overlooking the Everett Naval Station. Each morning we are faithfully reminded the Navy is our neighbor when we hear the playing of the national anthem, and then again each evening at nine p.m. when taps is played. These are our daily cues that we as Americans share the same flag and some set of common values with the … Continue reading Semper Fidelis
This past week I turned 70 and for whatever reason this birthday has captured my attention. After years of paying little mind to the passing of time this particular birthday found me asking what I’ve learned about living a meaningful life. Hard question. A lot crossed my mind, but after much thought I’d say the keys to a successful life are keeping yourself rigorously honest, … Continue reading A Thought on Turning 70
Marsha and I would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas. We, like many of you, have struggled over the years with how to infuse this holiday with a meaning beyond traditional stories and Christmas gifts. Now that we are grandparents this search has taken on added importance. I asked myself recently if it was in my power to grant young Sam any gift of … Continue reading A Christmas Gift