Tomorrow is Independence Day in the United States of America. It is a time to celebrate the red, white, and blue! We will be shooting off fireworks, eating burgers and hot dogs, and (hopefully) thanking soldiers and their families for the sacrifices they have made to keep our nation free. The older I get, the more I appreciate freedom. Growing up, I knew nothing different; so, while I said I was thankful to live in a free country, I had no idea how it felt to live in poverty under harsh governmental oppression. Seeing the world now through adult lenses, I am thankful for the provisions I … [Read more...]

Close your eyes and think of Easter. What images come to mind? In addition to Christ’s cross on a hill, I saw beautiful Spring flowers, brightly colored candies, and Cadbury eggs. We celebrated Easter in my home growing up, but not nearly as much as Thanksgiving and Christmas. Once Sunday morning service was over, the celebration was mostly over as well; but, this was not the case in Eric’s family – they had guests over, served lamb, and created wonderful memories. It is in our nature to consider our personal life experiences as normal. Even if others find our family traditions odd, to … [Read more...]