This Lent, beyond our shared fasting, let’s consider a complex trend: the rise of “spiritual but not religious” (SBNR) individuals, particularly among younger generations. Pew Research and others confirm a decline in traditional religious affiliation alongside a surge in interest in personal spirituality—mindfulness, meditation, and a sense of universal connection. Reasons vary: disillusionment with religious…
Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday? It’s like the first day of school, but instead of new notebooks and pencils, you get a smudge of dirt on your forehead. And instead of fearing the cafeteria’s meatloaf, you’re dreading giving up that nightly pint of ice cream. Remember those first days of school? You’d stride in, ready to conquer calculus…
Respect
The Oscars last night got me thinking about the power of language, particularly the word “respect.” It struck me how frequently it’s used, and how deeply it resonates. “Respect” isn’t just a word; it’s a fundamental human need that shapes our actions and relationships. We see this play out in countless ways. Parents, driven by…
Lenten Season Is Here
Lent’s quiet approach caught me off guard this year, but I’m determined to enjoy one final, golden pancake before Ash Wednesday, March 5, 2025, ushers in the season of sacrifice and reflection. The beauty of Lent lies in its diverse expressions, each faith and family weaving their own tapestry of observance. Shrove Tuesday’s pancake tradition,…
Bullies
I hate bullies, cuz a bully doesn’t just beat you up, he takes away your dignity…. — Phil in City Slickers. Suzy shared Phil’s quote with me this morning, a stark echo of our shared unease. Last night, we were both deeply troubled by the White House meeting with the Ukrainian President. The President’s actions and…