Author Archives: joyocala

These are the familiar words of Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” They seem particularly relevant in this season of graduations. We see young people, many in our own families, stepping … Continue reading →

I try to travel in my imagination putting myself on the hillside, gathered together with many of Jesus’ followers. Matthew, Mark, Luke and John describe the feeding that we know as the loaves and fishes. After the blessing of the … Continue reading →

Through the years, my cravings have changed. As a child: more toys As a teenager: more sleep As a young adult: more chocolate As a young professional: more money As a new mother: more sleep As a parent: peace and … Continue reading →

I recently had a learning experience that has revealed one of my faults. I have a hypothetical list of people that I have labeled freeloaders. These are people in my judgment who: only want to talk and rarely listen, only … Continue reading →

Some composers “paint” with musical notes. They convey a picture just with music. Beethoven did that. In the “Credo” of his Mass in C Major the sopranos sing the words “et ascendit in coelum” (and he ascended into heaven) to … Continue reading →

I really like the phrase “Love is contagious.” I think it succinctly expresses the power of love, and it raise a picture in my mind of love passed along person to person. I first heard, or at least first noticed, … Continue reading →

Originally posted on May 30, 2016 by our friend Helen This weekend is a time of memories–a memorial for those who have gone before us. We honor those who served our country in the military to preserve our freedoms. We … Continue reading →

Today we awaken to Memorial Day. On this last Monday of May we honor the men and women who have died while serving in the military. We raise the flag in respect and our veterans’ graves are proudly decorated with … Continue reading →

Disney and all its many avenues of entertainment spell magic and success. In Disney’s movie, Toy Story, an award winning song was “You’ve Got a Friend in Me,” explaining the relationship between Woody and Andy and the toys of this … Continue reading →

“What do you want to be when you’re grown up?” Haven’t you asked that question and been asked that question your whole life? My answers have changed throughout the years: A teacher Married A mother A grandmother Retired I’ve been … Continue reading →