Peace is a lofty and elusive concept. As a young Jew, I learned that the word Shalom means ‘hello,’ ‘goodbye,’ and ‘peace.’ In the latter case, Shalom is that instant, perfect and temporary, when all is right in the world.
Read MoreBittersweet
The phone rang late Friday afternoon, as I was in the middle of a planning conversation with Maggie. Caller ID said it was Denver Hospice, the place where my father spent his last 16 hours last February. I picked up the phone out of respect.The caller identified herself as a ‘grief counselor’ just wanting to check in and see how I am doing now, nearly six months after losing my dad. I stepped into the next room, settled into a comfy chair, and answered her like this:
Read MoreContinuation
My teenage son awoke from a classic anxiety dream the other morning: he dreamt he was sitting in a high school math class, totally unprepared, and fearful of the consequences. The timing of the dream is right, since today is Continuation Day at his school.
Read MoreComing Full-Circle, Again
In the months leading up to launching this blog and my web-radio show, I had been on something of a search for folks who might offer me wisdom and guidance during a time I felt confused and adrift. You’ve met and heard some of them on the program.
Read MoreA Day in the Life
Picking up the USA Today on my flight home from Toledo after burying my father, I recalled how he read this paper every day. I was never sure how much information he retained, although my dad did frequently surprise me with some fact or tidbit he must’ve gleaned from those pages. I felt a slight wave of sadness creep into the back of my heart, a slight welling of tears in the back of my eyes, as I let myself think for just a moment about my father and his daily routine.
Read MoreAsking Permission
I would like to learn to ask permission. With my teenage son Jordy, it would be at those times when I want to lecture or make a point, or teach a lesson, and I would actually do well to ask his permission first.
Read MoreCHANGES
This week, as I prepare to offer a training class on CHANGE MANAGEMENT for a local municipal client, I am aware of the changes all around me, and how much I need to keep in mind the challenges that this can cause.
Read MoreAllegiance
I remember standing in the front yard of the first home I really remember living in as a child. I’m only four or five years old, in my pajamas, barefoot in the damp grass on a summer morning. Standing next to me is my father, in a business suit, ready to leave for work.
Read MoreA very narrow bridge
“The whole world is a very narrow bridge, and the most important thing is to not fear at all.” These words, adapted from the writings of the great 18th Century Hassidic master Rabbi Nachman of Bratzlav, keep coming to mind as I think of my father, his life and his times. Especially this recent memorial day, which also marks the passing of my little sister, Toni Lynn.
Read MoreA Four Worlds Gratitude Prayer
This week, in the holiday spirit, I am offering something a little different, based on the Jewish mystical tradition of Kabbalah, in the form of A Four Worlds Gratitude Prayer: I am aware and grateful for the four worlds in which I live…
Read MoreCelebrating the Firsts and the Lasts
I’ve always been big on celebrating, and after becoming a father, celebration became even more important. Each week, month, and year in my son’s life brought new joy, and another excuse to celebrate something special.
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