Author Archives: joyocala

When you look at others do you see “the light within?” Do you recognize the good in them? At one point in my life, I had the opportunity to co-teach in a developmental kindergarten class. (a class of youngsters who … Continue reading →

Flying high above the clouds, the intercom pings and I hear the pilot’s voice, “Ladies and gentlemen, we’ll be feeling the effects of the Gulf Stream in our flight today. The good news is, we’ll be arriving sooner than expected. … Continue reading →

Last week’s blog about my love of knitting reminded me of the Stephen Ministry Caregiver’s Compass. In Stephen Ministry training and practice, the Caregiver’s Compass is used to illustrate how Christ is always at the center of our actions. Every … Continue reading →

Continuing my quick glimpse of Early Florida Lutheranism from last week, I come to the Rev. John Bachman (1790-1873), one of the most important leaders in Southern Lutheranism. Bachman was a Lutheran minister who was the pastor of St. John’s … Continue reading →

I like to listen to pipe organs, and I’d like to tell you about three church pipe organ experiences that I’ve had. My most recent memory is from this past summer, when Paulette and I celebrated our fiftieth wedding anniversary … Continue reading →

Friendships operate on so many levels, from casual to “BFF”. There are “Facebook friends”. If you ever take a long, hard look at your friend list on FB, you will be scratching your head. “What was I thinking?” The irony … Continue reading →

It’s just 3 more days until Valentine’s Day. (Not quite like the countdown to Christmas, is it?)  Yes, this is the week for hearts and flowers. Do you remember making Valentines in school? Or maybe bringing in little Valentine cards … Continue reading →

Is it possible that we make life too difficult? Could WE be the reason that drama surrounds us? The expression, “You are your own worst enemy,” does that resonate with you? Are you guilty of over-thinking every detail of your … Continue reading →

I’m just not that into fruit. I know you probably get excited about the sweetness, the juiciness. Biblical references to “the fruit of the Spirit” and “therefore bear fruit” and “every good tree bears good fruit” just don’t resonate with … Continue reading →

I do. I love to knit. I anticipate my knitting time with eagerness. It is meditative, relaxing and allows me to remove worries and anxiety from my thoughts. When I feel low, I look to my yarn supply and think … Continue reading →