When they were little, I repeatedly told my daughters I had two primary goals for them: I wanted them to love Jesus, and I wanted them to love books. My rationale for this simplistic parenting strategy was as follows: loving Jesus would open their hearts and loving books would open their minds. With open hearts…
Books and papers have both a magical and medicinal nature for me. They can cause my thoughts to bend and stretch, and they provide a focused departure from the messiness of my everyday life. I think it was in college that I decided the best books were those that required the utmost concentration. I clearly…
Her words were the opposite of what I was used to hearing. I had a baby in my arms and only one hand free to herd my other kids—eight, seven, and three-year-old twins—out the doors of the church sanctuary. Phyllis caught up to me with a smile. “You are so lucky! My favorite part of…
“Mommy, every time we have a school concert or recital or dance, my friends get flowers. Why don’t you and Daddy bring flowers for me?” It was a fair question, but the answer wasn’t easy to explain to an eleven-year-old. I told Grace we love to celebrate her and have fun experiences with her, but…
The little girl leaned close to my daughter’s face, intently staring at her features and her skin. Then she jumped back and looked over at her mom with wide eyes. “Her is creepy!” she declared. My heart tightened in my chest at her words—it wasn’t the first time I’ve cringed or fought back tears at…
Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is more precious than rubies. Her husband can trust her, and she will greatly enrich his life. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. She finds wool and flax and busily spins it. She is like a merchant’s ship, bringing her…