A Beacon of Light

“Getting together  as a family is a  great way to  reinforce bonds  that have existed  for generations.” Today was “family day” at the pool. Kathy and I thoroughly enjoyed having all three of our boys, along with all five grandkids with us for an afternoon of swimming and snacks. Steve’s wife, Morgan, was able to…

“America celebratedtogether at 200. We won’t at 250.”John Mark Hansen The day is upon us — the semiquincentennial (meaning half of a 500-year anniversary) of the United States of America. At this point in our nation’s history, I question whether we should continue to use the word “united” to describe our country. Clearly, we’re not. I…

“America means opportunity, freedom, power.”Ralph Waldo Emerson The United States of America celebrates its 250th anniversary tomorrow. Throughout much of our nation’s history, Emerson’s quote (above) has been a valid observation. Sadly, this no longer seems to be completely accurate. The challenges of the current state of our union are concerning to many. For me,…

I had the pleasure of an unexpected, one-on-one breakfast with legendary U.C.L.A. men’s basketball coach John Wooden in the summer of 1974. During his years as head coach, the Bruins won ten national championships in twelve years. I have been a disciple of Coach Wooden since that memorable summer morning meal. Wooden considered himself to…

“Life is about  accepting the  challenges  along the way.”  Roy T. Bennett Three challenges: (1) to let go, (2) to be grateful, and (3) to be open to what’s coming next. The promise of accepting these challenges is that we will “be happy and content.” Sounds like a pretty good deal, right? Let’s take a…

“The friendships of your youth leave an everlasting impact on your soul.”  Yesterday was a perfect summer day in Walnut Creek for the annual Saint Gabriel Class of 1968 Bocce Ball Classic. More than a dozen class members, along with several significant others, gathered at Rossmoor, a retirement community which is home to two of our classmates. Pat…

“Death is not  a foe, but aninevitable adventure.” Sir Oliver Lodge   I came across an article a few months ago that stated, “The SSA (Social Security Administration) estimates a remaining life expectancy of 13.25 years for an exact age of 72.” What a coincidence! I turned 72 on June 4 of this year, so I did…

“As the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do.” Colossians 3:13 Yes, it seems like there is a “National Day” for just about everything. Today’s observance, while overlooked by many, might be one of the most significant on our calendar: National Forgiveness Day. Anger and resentment are inevitable components of the human experience. When we are hurt…

“Expectations are resentments waiting to happen.”Anne Lamott I had not visited the San Francisco Zoo in many years… until yesterday. Kathy and I spent a few hours wandering around the venue enjoying a comfortably overcast San Francisco day. I know I visited the zoo with my kids when they were toddlers, but my sons are now 40,…