Monthly Archives: March 2017

What if I were not alone? What if I was stronger and healthier? What if this pain would go away? What if I had the funds to travel anywhere I wished? What if the kids kept in touch with me … Continue reading →

Most people when they hear the phrase “The Day the Music Died” think of the day (February 3, 1959) when the plane carrying Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and “Big Bopper” Richardson crashed. Some will know that the phrase actually was … Continue reading →

One of Annie’s seminary classmates recently shared a blog post that I was so taken by, I have included it below. Like, John, the blog author, my life was changed by getting to know two faithful, committed, church members who … Continue reading →

When I spoke with Pastor Ed about continuing JOY’s blog site after his retirement, I asked permission to use his tagline, “and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally!” at the end of each blog post.  He agreed saying, “That’s the most … Continue reading →

A counselor once said that my problem was that I wanted to live in a greenhouse where everything is nice and controlled and perfect. He was right. I don’t like dealing with problems. I hate people fussing about things. I … Continue reading →

Have you ever noticed how a smile is readily returned? I have been asked many times why I am generally cheerful. My quick response is usually, why not? I like to start each day counting my blessings and then thanking … Continue reading →

Pastors frequently get asked, “is (insert name here) in heaven? I’m not sure if they are saved…they never went to church…they did a lot of rotten things,etc.” No, that is not a direct quote from anyone in particular, but those are, in … Continue reading →

My Dad was the first-born son of a German family. Although his parents did speak some English, in their home they spoke only German. On his first day of school, their little boy was totally at a loss – he … Continue reading →

The teacher that influenced me the most was my high school math teacher, Mr. Dean. It was through his classes that I realized how much I loved the subject and that I had enough talent to make it my career. … Continue reading →

In Pastor Art’s Bible Study class Thursday, we spent time looking through and sharing our favorite Psalms. I remembered the verse from Psalm 30: 5 that I had learned unconsciously from a West Wing episode and which returned to me, … Continue reading →