Have you ever thought you were coming to your “Wits end?” All time high fuel prices for gasoline and heating are changing this county’s spending habits and this together with increasing food prices are squeezing the average family’s monthly budget. Plummeting home prices and historical mortgage foreclosures are creating economic havoc worldwide. Throw in the … Continue reading →

Yesterday I decided to stop and take home a carryout dinner. I won’t name the restaurant but I’ll give you a hint. It was started by a Kentucky Colonel. I chose to go inside and order my meal rather than wait in the long drive-thru line. I don’t like to profile or characterize but the … Continue reading →

Last year I installed a humidifier on my furnace. It is wonderful devise adding moisture to the heated air and helping my nightly breathing and rest. It also prevents those shocking static reminders during the cold days of winter. But like anything else it needs care and maintenance. So today’s project was to clean the … Continue reading →

I read a report today discussing the findings of a study involving six hospitals across the country examining whether prayer helps in the recovery of heart bypass patients. It was the largest undertaking of its kind and the results were published with the headline, “Praying for heart-bypass patients didn’t aid recovery”. The story went on … Continue reading →

The other day I read the board of directors of a major oil company had approved the retirement benefits for the outgoing chairman. His pension is estimated to have a value of four hundred million dollars. That’s right, $400,000.000. Is any one individual really entitled to such an outlandish payment? What possible guidelines were used … Continue reading →

When I moved my family to Indianapolis we became members of a large and prestigious church on the far north side. Although still on the roster, we now attend a smaller more Christ centered house of worship filled with the Holy Spirit. On occasion I stop by the original church, enter a side door and … Continue reading →

One year my son decided to join the Boy Scouts. He worked hard and received the required merit badgers along with other awards for his efforts. It reminded me of the time I was a scout and travelled with other members of my troop to Camp Philmont in New Mexico. We spent two weeks in … Continue reading →

God is awesome! He places people and events before me to remind this devotional writer of His all inclusive love and unending compassion. Yesterday was a good example. I have become friends with a young woman who works at the local grocery. Her name is April and she is absolutely lovely. She has a beautiful … Continue reading →

In my second book[1] I related to seeing images of a spiritual nature after closing my eyes at night and before falling asleep. I have not seen them recently but in their place I now hear choirs. Yes, angelic like choirs. Most times the singers are male, sometimes female and on very rare occasions a … Continue reading →

The other day I drove downtown to meet an attorney on some critical business matters. All I can say is copyright law can be confusing and terribly expensive. His office is in one of the tall towers gracing the downtown skyline with its numerous microwave and television antennas piercing the afternoon clouds. They sprout from … Continue reading →

I remember the days when going to the movies was an all day event. I won’t discuss the price but often wonder how today’s young people can afford tickets, refreshments, and the before going home snack. Back then movie houses showed two movies during one seating thus the term “double feature.” At the same time … Continue reading →

Today I saw another clever and innovative billboard. It was posted by the all familiar local restaurant and read, “4 meals for under $4.” Now does that mean you can get all four meals for less than four dollars or each of the four meals cost less than four bucks? Of course we all know … Continue reading →

At the beginning of my career as a stockbroker I was assigned to an office known for its considerable walk-in business. It was located on the ground floor with a large electronic ticker tape stretching the length of the lobby. The screen, with its ever changing prices, was visible not only to us on the … Continue reading →

One morning I found myself in desperate need of cash. Two of my grandchildren were having their first piano recital that afternoon and I was broke. I needed to have pocket money so I decided to drive to my bank and use the ATM. This particular bank has its machine located in a far corner … Continue reading →

Today I saw an ambulance, lights flashing and sirens wailing pull into our local gas station. It was there to help another rescue squad remove a man slumped over the wheel of his car parked by one of the pumps. The paramedics were working feverishly and I found myself saying a silent prayer for both … Continue reading →

As a young boy I spent many summers visiting a farm in the Pocono Mountains of northeast Pennsylvania. Each year as the time approached for this annual pilgrimage my excitement level would rise to unbearable levels like a kid waiting for the Good Humor man. The farm was located near the small and picturesque village … Continue reading →

Many years ago I was with a very special young woman at a major Midwestern airport. We were there to welcome friends traveling from Europe. We arrived early and I suggested we have a leisurely dinner and then walk to the gate. As we were approaching the concourse we passed a gift shop and my … Continue reading →

Yesterday as I waited at a traffic light, I noticed dark and ominous clouds signaling the approaching storm predicted by our local weatherman. Yes, he is right once in a while. What perked my attention was as the front moved toward me the contrast between the blue sky and the black clouds was striking. They … Continue reading →

A few months ago I was standing alone in a parking lot ready to load some heavy items into my car. Not only was I was physically exhausted from the day’s activities but as the afternoon turned to evening I was becoming mentally fatigued as well. As I bent over to begin lifting the boxes … Continue reading →

As a young teenager I decided, together with a close friend and neighbor to go deer hunting. At our age and with caring parents we knew shotguns and rifles were out of the question. That left us only one choice, the bow and arrow. We spent a good portion of the summer months at our … Continue reading →

Recently I purchased an artificial tree for my bedroom. It stands about six feet tall and sits in a large round pot inside a colorful wicker basket. It makes the room seem larger and gives the area the added decoration it so desperately needed. It also makes for an interesting conversation piece. While walking through … Continue reading →

Bet you thought I was going to talk about table tennis. Well, you’re right, I am. While his siblings were off to college our youngest son had Mom and Dad all to himself for four years. It was a fun time and a joy to watch him grow and mature into a young adult, become … Continue reading →

You know you’re getting older when you receive a Birthday card from the town pharmacist. I also received one from my doctor friend and his long time assistant. I just pray my family doesn’t hear next year from the local undertaker. Getting older is a privilege and a gift straight from God. He is the … Continue reading →

A few days ago I was craving the taste of a local restaurants delicious chili. I decided to take some home and found myself ordering my favorite style at their drive thru window. When the young man handed me my order he said with a slight chuckle, “Thanks for spending the past 56 seconds with … Continue reading →

Here we go again! It is that time of year when we begin the annual ritual of collecting last year’s tax records to show income, expenses and deductions. To me, this is a very taxing time. I have an accountant who completes and files the necessary forms but I am still the one who needs … Continue reading →

There she was, the mother of nine, protecting her eggs on top of one of my neighbors outdoor flower pots. She disposed of one, hatched seven and four survived. It was wonderful watching her care for and nurture her young and finally seeing them waddle as a group toward the pond outside my den window. … Continue reading →

The other day I was introduced to a lovely young woman. She is a good friend of a neighbor and I liked her right from the start. What Ienjoyed most was her sense of humor and her ability to laugh at herself. Let me tell you one of her stories. A few years ago she … Continue reading →

Thousands of years ago tribes worshipped, bowed down, prayed to and followed the directions of ungodly priests and their false idols. They used phony sculptures made of wood, metal and stones to shape the “religion” of the people and to further their own selfish desires. Today we witness many wolves in sheep’s clothing disguised as … Continue reading →

What do you think of when you hear the words, “happy hour?” I would imagine most people would say having drinks at the local pub after work. Recently I was visiting with a waitress friend who had purchased a copy of Volume 1. Knowing her to be a Christian woman I was somewhat taken back … Continue reading →

I have a neighbor whose passion is gardening. She can always be found nurturing her bushes and shrubs while constantly tending to her vast collection of beautiful flowers. She spends untold hours weeding, trimming and feeding and by days end her hands are usually worn or, at the very least, covered with dirt and grime. … Continue reading →

Today is the beginning of the third week in July. According to the National Weather Service we’ve had only 1/10 of an inch of rain since April 1st. This is no April fool joke, this is for real. According to today’s newspaper there are now 26 states, including mine, declared as drought disaster areas with … Continue reading →

Some call home a shady spot in the sun baked African desert, others in crowded and filthy ghettos while many live in the steamy rain forests of South America. There are also the fortunate, living in ocean front villas, high rise condominiums and destinations built for the wealthy and privileged. Home is where traditions are … Continue reading →

I live on a very large cul-da-sac, I’d say about one-half mile around. It is lined with beautiful homes and a variety of friendly neighbors. It is the perfect setting for my writing as I overlook nature’s artistic display of gently rolling hills together with man-made ponds, wooden fences and beautiful landscaping. The other window … Continue reading →

Yesterday morning while driving through town I noticed a group of young girls running on the sidewalk. On the way back I saw them again, this time running across the parking lot of the local frozen custard shop. They are members of our local high school cross country track team and I guess it was … Continue reading →

I have a wonderful neighbor. He’s a retired ex-Army guy and he and his wife love to travel. She likes cruises and he enjoys driving the open road in their newly purchased motor home. I don’t see them often but when I do it is a pleasure to sit and talk with them and hear … Continue reading →

My daughter who is now in her forties has battled allergies since childhood. Many years ago she and her family moved to Colorado with its crisp mountain air and clear blue skies. But a few years later she was offered a position with a firm located in southern California. It was an exceptional offer with … Continue reading →

A few months ago my daughter sent me a cane after my second knee replacement. I’m having a difficult time with balance and she also thought I would look more distinguished. A very thoughtful gift and one I will cherish always. As I was entering a card shop today a young man, I say in … Continue reading →

It’s brag time! When my youngest son was in his teens and growing into his twenties he was an outstanding tennis player. He played number one singles in high school and was selected to the junior Davis Cup team. During his college days he was also slotted at number one. He served and volleyed so … Continue reading →

Her name is Easter. I knew of her by reading the book Scars and Stripes[1], a family biography written by her son, a gifted writer and pastor. It is the story of a family’s struggle in the rugged coal mining sections of Kentucky and West Virginia and their survival from the hands of an alcoholic … Continue reading →

Last evening I returned to my college alma mater for the first time in years. I had been asked by the business school to help conduct mock sessions for graduating seniors as they prepared for their corporate interviews. It was a great experience for me and I hope an interesting and informative time for them. … Continue reading →

As we headed home after completing a few necessary errands the weather was turning rainy, cold and blustery, unusual weather for a spring day in May. We decided to have an early dinner and then return to the comfort and warmth of our cozy apartment. When we arrived at the restaurant the hostess seated us … Continue reading →

This December my favorite radio station is broadcasting only Christmas music for the entire month. I have been listening to seasonal hymns, hand-bells, special holiday carols, inspirational orchestras and church choirs, singing chipmunks along with country pop sprinkled with rock and roll and soft jazz. This is an exciting time of year and the music … Continue reading →

Not far from my home is an old farm market. During the spring it is stocked with colorful garden flowers and potted plants, in the summer with fresh and delicious produce and beginning in December with live trees, wreaths and garlands. That’s right! Live Christmas trees in a world full of artificial everything. This past … Continue reading →

This afternoon while rearranging a bookshelf I picked up an old and rarely used Bible. A forgotten booklet inside the front cover fell to the floor and as I reached down I noticed it was a daily devotional, aged and tattered, for the month of November. As believers we have learned to celebrate Thanksgiving daily, … Continue reading →

I live in a state where daylight savings time has been an issue for decades, but at least we never had to “stay up until 2AM” to adjust our clocks forward or backward as did the others within our time zone. It didn’t bother me one way or the other, except when I could only … Continue reading →

After entering the polling booth during a recent election I pulled the curtain closed and  began the search for my intended choices. Most of those running for office were relatively unknown; still I treasure this constitutional right. I checked each preference and pulled the appropriate lever, registering my vote for what I hoped would be … Continue reading →

I was recently given my first assignment as a newly commissioned Stephen Minister. I expected to care for someone maybe going through a difficult divorce or possibly a traumatic job loss. Little did I know I would be assigned to a terminally ill husband, father and grandfather. Not only that, he had slipped into a … Continue reading →

One day while browsing the aisles of a local Christian bookshop I came upon a life size poster of Jesus. He had the face we all recognize, beard, gentle compassionate eyes with dark handsome features. Before I realized it I was saying, “Hello, Jesus.” At that moment I turned and saw a young woman shopper … Continue reading →

A few months ago I attended a series of lectures at our local visitors and convention center. I always look forward to going downtown with all its hustle and bustle and listening to the distinctive sounds of our growing city. Whether for a sporting event or just for dinner the trip is always exciting. While … Continue reading →

I have a neighbor who takes her dog for a “walk” three or four times a day. It is a cute little Pekingese and is thoroughly spoiled. What is unusual is the owner usually carries the pup to a nearby fire hydrant or tree and then carries it back home. Isn’t this what God does … Continue reading →

The other day I decided to have lunch at a local delicatessen known for their oversized sandwiches and sinful desserts. Whenever I visit this historic eatery I sit at the counter to watch the interaction between over stressed waitresses and grumpy cooks. So that afternoon I relaxed on a comfortable swivel stool, ordered my “heart … Continue reading →

We had a horrific storm sweep through town last Friday evening. When the sirens began their ominous warning I decided to turn off the TV and shut down the computer. Heavy sheeting rain with periods of hail ripped across the area. Frequent bursts of lightning exposed black racing clouds and thunder explosions were loud enough … Continue reading →

Every so often I take my car to a full service wash where it is cleaned inside and out.  Tires and wheels are scrubbed, the interior is wiped clean, the exterior hand dried and the windows become spotless. My car always seems to run better when it is dirt free and shiny. One afternoon while … Continue reading →

Today while sitting in my study I looked outside and there, perched on the window screen was a beautiful goldfinch, bright and cheerful, looking back at this writer of devotions. The encounter lasted for only a few seconds and then it flew off to charm yet another surprised viewer. Like the finch, unexpected moments happen … Continue reading →

His name is Jim. We met a few years ago during our first class meeting for the Stephen Ministry. He and Dena were the only husband and wife members of the group other than our leaders. I had looked forward to a long term, close and treasured friendship with this man who I considered a rock … Continue reading →

This past Fall I took a lengthy road trip. It was 2840 miles to be exact and I was driving to attend a mini high school reunion. It was held in southern Florida where many of my classmates now live. The weekend was filled with laughter and hugs as we reminisced about long ago school … Continue reading →

I needed to make a desperate run to the grocery. I was on my way home after a tiring Stephen Ministry visit with a terminally ill patient and his supportive but fearful wife. In addition my arthritis was acting up after walking the hallways of the local hospital, compounded by days of heavy rain and … Continue reading →

I have been asked, as a member of the Stephen Ministry, to assist during the alter call at one of our weekend church services. It is truly an honor and comes with awesome responsibilities. We are to pray for and lift up those in need and encourage the one’s seeking an even closer relationship with … Continue reading →

I recently spent a few days in the hospital undergoing a variety of tests. After being poked, jabbed and stuck they could not find any cause for my discomfort. I suppose that is why people call it “the practice of medicine.” I certainly didn’t get any rest as the nurses and aides came into the … Continue reading →

Her name is Easter. I knew of her by reading the book Scars and Stripes[1], a family biography written by her son, a gifted writer and pastor. It is the story of a family’s struggle in the rugged coal mining sections of Kentucky and West Virginia and their survival from the hands of an alcoholic … Continue reading →

When our children were young we took a family trip to Florida and the beautiful beaches caressing the shores of the scenic panhandle. The occasion was the popular week long spring break and nearly the entire town headed out for distant and relaxing vacations. We had reservations at a newly built condominium with our seventh … Continue reading →

It was powerfully dark. We had just driven down the mountain from our future retirement home nestled three thousand feet above on the southern slope of the Blue Ridge Mountains.  After saying goodnight to the security guard I turned onto State Route 11 and headed for Greenville and a good night’s rest. We had driven … Continue reading →

One of my favorite pastimes is fishing. I’m not one for the adventure of throwing a lure into the ocean nor do I favor angling in distant and remote places. Rather, I prefer resting on the bank of a local pond, close to and within walking distance from home, meditating on life and dreaming of … Continue reading →

One of the windows in my study overlooks the main entrance into my neighborhood. A few months ago the developers installed a stop sign at the intersection and guess what? Hardly anybody stops! Some coast by, others roll through while most don’t even bother to slow down. It is called habit and is a dangerous … Continue reading →

I remember, as if it were yesterday, my time as a young father and the variety of ways I used to get my children moving and into the car.  Whether we were leaving for church, an athletic event or any one of the many family outings it was often three against one. When I finally … Continue reading →

I saw a wonderful bumper sticker the other day. It read, “be nice.” What a simple, pleasant and gentle message. This world needs more reminders like this to understand our softer and kinder side. Whenever I hear a person say “nice” I think of words like pleasing, agreeable and patient. What about “I had a … Continue reading →

I remember as a young boy my Dad taking me to get a haircut. When we walked into the shop the barber looked at me and then to my Dad and remarked, “You can never deny he’s your son.” There was a striking resemblance between father and son and it was expressed in more places … Continue reading →

A few years ago I met a delightful young woman. I immediately saw her beauty, sensed her innocence and felt her compassion. We became good friends and she helped me through some challenging times for which I remain eternally grateful. She was working her way through college to become a nurse and receiving high grades … Continue reading →

The other day I needed to make an emergency grocery run as I was completely out of my favorite breakfast cereal. I really never thought about it but as I walked the store I found cereal products take up one full aisle, three and sometimes four shelves high. I remember as a kid our choices … Continue reading →

Yesterday while stopped at a traffic light my mind began to wander. It seems to stray more frequently as each year passes. When the signal turned green I was still in some far away and dreamy place, totally unaware of my surroundings. The driver behind me honked, not loud or rudely as we have come … Continue reading →

Last weekend I was driving to church after visiting a close friend at the hospital. He is suffering from the ravages of cancer and the prognosis is not very good. It is difficult, and at times overwhelming, to see someone you love and care for painfully approach life’s end. As a humble spokesman for Christ … Continue reading →

Have you ever looked closely at your hands? Really, really examined them? I have. I remember my Dad, shortly before his passing, spending hours studying his hands. I’d love to know what he was thinking at those times. Mine are the hands that held my first rattle as a baby, helped support me as an … Continue reading →

My day began running a “must do” errand. It was very early and the temperature was two degrees above zero. This was one of those daybreak moments when you would prefer to roll over, sleep in and overlook the morning’s frigid conditions. As I was driving you could see exhaust fumes coming from yet to … Continue reading →

I received a beautiful gray scarf as a Christmas present. It was given to me by a valued friend and will always be cherished and remain a part of my cold weather attire. Some have suggested wearing this garment makes me look like a college professor or at least a thoughtful eccentric. If anything, I … Continue reading →

Early this morning I peeked outside to check on last evenings forecast. For a change the weather man was right. During the night we had our first predicted snowfall of the season. It also brought frigid below zero temperatures and strong gusty winds. Not a lot of the white stuff, I’d say maybe around two … Continue reading →

I have finally completed my preparation for becoming a Stephen Minister. It has involved over fifty hours of classroom work, weekend study retreats and plenty of assigned reading including three textbooks and two training manuals. Our mission is to be with and minister to the needs of those persons suffering from a variety of crushing … Continue reading →

This December my favorite radio station is broadcasting only Christmas music for the entire month. I have been listening to seasonal hymns, hand-bells, special holiday carols, inspirational orchestras and church choirs, singing chipmunks along with country pop sprinkled with rock and roll and soft jazz. This is an exciting time of year and the music … Continue reading →

Not far from my home is an old farm market. During the spring it is stocked with colorful garden flowers and potted plants, in the summer with fresh and delicious produce and beginning in December with live trees, wreaths and garlands. That’s right! Live Christmas trees in a world full of artificial everything. This past … Continue reading →

Yesterday I finished writing my Christmas cards. Some people call this tradition a chore but I find it to be the perfect time for quiet reflection and the whispered renewal of memories. Warm feelings flow as I address and sign these personal greetings, especially to family members and loved ones. Some are forwarded to far … Continue reading →

When I retired I didn’t receive the proverbial gold watch. As a matter of fact I didn’t even receive the standard fishing rod. But after forty years of service I was presented with a beautiful brass clock that sits proudly on the desk in my study. I look at it daily as I compose these … Continue reading →

After all these years I finally purchased a frame for my college diploma. Its border is made of mahogany, has a gold band around the edges and at the bottom the university’s name is written in bold script. It hangs proudly in my study and reminds me of long ago times and past accomplishments. I … Continue reading →

Today I saw a sign in front of a counseling center which read, “The greatest gift you can give is the gift of time.” Time is of great value and should be highly treasured by both the giver and receiver. Time can be saved, wasted, lost, spent, found, measured and used. I could kill time, … Continue reading →

In my early thirties I became a novice homeowner. I had a pretty good idea how to make repairs and do general home maintenance, things I learned from my Dad. He had an amazing talent for designing, building and fixing. It was a beautiful home, some might call it pretentious, for an up and coming … Continue reading →

I thought I’ve seen everything until I read the following headline on my Internet provider home page. It said, “How to Have a Midlife Crisis on a Budget.” I never had one in my prime and I’m too old now to consider riding a motorcycle, wearing those expensive and flashy gold chains, having my hair … Continue reading →

The other day I was talking on the phone with a good friend. She was asking me how the sales were going for Volume 1 and we began to discuss a new web site I found a few weeks ago.[1] It is a fascinating tool. I simply typed in a few keywords like, God is … Continue reading →

The other day I need to heat up some water for cooking. I filled up a sauce pan, placed it on the back burner and set the temperature dial to high. Since it would take a few minutes to boil I decided to walk to our community mailbox and pickup that day’s delivery. While outside … Continue reading →

It is almost a rite of passage living in the Midwest to be a racing fan. I am no exception. I went to 18 consecutive Indianapolis 500’s and have attended many other oval track events. It gets in your blood. One thing they all have in common is the pre-race ceremonies. There are the driver … Continue reading →

Last evening I attended the monthly marketing meeting at my church. It is a wonderful group of talented writers, photographers, graphic design artists and computer experts. They are a dedicated bunch eager to spread God’s Word both here and around the globe. The building is undergoing a major remodel so we were relegated to the … Continue reading →

When I was a young boy my family took a few summer vacations to a farm in Pennsylvania. One of the nearby attractions was the Delaware River where we would fish for small and large mouth bass, enjoy hours of boating and do lots of swimming. One year it was particularly dry as rainfall amounts … Continue reading →

Unconditional love is beautiful to watch. I saw it first hand while recuperating from knee surgery. It came from an older couple, I’d say in their eighties, and their expressions of tenderness and love will remain forever treasured in the heart of this yearning romantic. I first saw them in the physical therapy room where … Continue reading →

I live in a very peaceful almost sleepy community. Most of the residents are middle aged working couples or retirees like me. Since my house sits on a cul-de-sac most of the traffic is the coming and goings of my friendly neighbors. You could say the quiet is deafening but it is the perfect setting … Continue reading →