Sandals and a Stick

Memories that Steal

And now, the Iowa Individual Events State Competition is imminent. This time it’s very local and volunteers are desperately needed. I am faced with another difficult decision. On one side, an angel encourages me to pitch in, to fill a needed void. But that other side is again making demands. “This is your last chance to watch these performers! Don’t give up an opportunity to experience the inspirational and imaginative creativity of these masterful troupers!” I listened.

Transformational Timelines

I heard about life-story timelines a week or two ago. Intrigued, I put this one together. Maybe someday, I'll significantly expand this just for fun. Obviously, this timeline reflects only a few lifetime events occurring over a significant number of decades.

The Warning of Dissonance

Musicians use dissonance effectively (in my opinion) when introduced but then resolved forthwith. There is a satisfying relief when sounds move back into a blessed consonance. All is well with my soul as the sounds are harmoniously and peacefully resolved. There is an unsettling harshness in daily life as well. Called cognitive dissonance, this arises when tension exists between our beliefs and actions.

The Concluding Edification

Often, before we impart expertise and advice, we run out of time. We know about the Grim Reaper; we just put things off because, well, it’s a bit uncomfortable, ya’ know?

Made for Darkness

However, even knowing human propensities, I have hope. There is a way to relight the flame of justice and love. And it’s not only for Christians. Nearly all world religions promote values such as charity, compassion, gratitude, and selflessness. Leo Tolstoy reminds us, “Society can only be improved by self-sacrifice.” His words sound a lot like love.

Spell Greed

There is a new reason to shed tears when reading “I Wish You Enough.” Inside, we mourn our moral collapse even as we embrace our own greed. Sad.