Pentecost
Pentecost came early for me this year. As I watched the empty streets in my urban neighborhood, I felt a sudden shift from loss to gratitude — for the common purpose that empty streets signify right now. I had been annoyed by the inconvenience of staying home, of avoiding others and not being able to […]
With Open Hands
At a recent memorial service, I heard a daughter marvel at how her mother was able to let go of her things with each move: beloved furniture, inherited dishes, favorite books, unneeded clothing. This journey of relinquishment comes to all of us. For those who understand it as preparation, the journey can be full of […]
Thin Places
This week, a friend retired after 25 years in one academic institution. She was ready, and yet weepy when the last boxes of books went into the car. It was the end of her work there. It was also the end of her identity as a seminary professor: those books were left behind. Surprised by […]
What Do You Need?
As my mother refused transfer to the hospital, she whispered “If you can stay, I think I can do this.” “Do what?” “Die.” I nodded, and we called in Hospice to provide comfort for her congestive heart failure. At 91, she was ready, but she needed someone to protect her space and give her time. […]
