Author Archives: joyocala

One of my favorite expressions is “It’s like herding cats.”  I usually thought of it in the context of an administrator moderating a meeting of unorganized, opinionated teachers (I was one of the cats).  In 2005 the historian Doris Kearns … Continue reading →

Jesus comes to us, inhabits us, dwells within us. Some have told me, and I have read many accounts of hearing our Lord’s voice, even seeing an angel who appears as Christ. A flash of blinding light, a daydream, walking. … Continue reading →

I looked up the word placidness.  I wasn’t sure if it referred to peaceful serenity or simply a state of lethargy.  In truth it can be either.   When we think about the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives, we’re reminded … Continue reading →

        A descriptor of myself, I am sensitive and I know I get my feelings hurt easily.  The follow-up is do I hold on to the “hurt?” This has been a journey of growing up and learning to “let it go.”         I … Continue reading →

Did you know telling someone “thank you” can not only give the recipient a happiness boost, but it can give you one too?  It is such a small thing and takes so little time, but it can make someone’s day … Continue reading →

We often end our blogs with the phrase “God loves you unconditionally.” This week, we remember Julian of Norwich whose 14th century writings are filled with references to God’s love for His children.  Julian is thought to be the first … Continue reading →

This quote just grabbed me: “From Rabinical Tradition we learn that the world rests on three pillars: (1) the study of the Torah; (2) prayer or worship; (3) good works. . . . Start with study, the moment of insight, … Continue reading →

If you believe you were made in God’s image, if you believe you are a child of God, if you know Jesus died for you and you believe in His unconditional love for you…what can you do?         I am certainly … Continue reading →

        If you believe you were made in God’s image, if you believe you are a child of God, if you know Jesus died for you and you believe in His unconditional love for you…what can you do?         I am certainly … Continue reading →

Tropical fish in a saltwater aquarium put up defenses at night. Some hide in shells, some have spines, some burrow in the gravel. Often, our faith does a similar thing – going quickly from certainty to uncertainty. It is important … Continue reading →