Have you ever experienced a mistake that turned out to be better than the original? I called my latest a happy mistake. I’m a person who likes things to go as planned. I like to know what the end result…
Looking to the Past to Guide the Future
Since my youngest daughter recently returned to college, I’ve become my husband’s hired help. Not having grown up on a farm, I’ve learned a lot of life lessons over the past years. One lesson is: Looking behind is necessary not…
What Do You Do in Times of Distress?
What do you do to see you through times of distress? A few years ago, at this time of year, I wrote the following. It is as applicable today as it was then. It is raining hard outside. Thunder. Lightening….
Clear the Mental and Physical Clutter
I can easily get distracted, and at the end of the day wonder what I’ve accomplished. In my quest to overcome this tendency, I’ve discovered a simple remedy, that when applied makes all the difference. Clear the clutter. Whether it’s…
Remembering 9/11
As we recently remembered the events of 9/11, I was strengthened by the following words of Thomas S. Monson, written Sept. 8, 2011 in The Washington Post. There are so many messages I wanted to highlight in the following article, but…
Graciously Receiving and its Effect on Others
While eating at a restaurant some time ago, I had no idea how much the interactions of a family seated nearby would affect me. It was a celebration as evidenced by the staff singing “Happy Birthday” to the young man….
Courage to Shine Your Light
During a recent time of turmoil I was tempted to give in to discouragement, but an insight while on my morning walk inspired me to take heart. The sky was grey, and smoke-filled from fires in the surrounding states. The…
Feeling Safe
What a lovely surprise, as I was recently cleaning up audio recordings on my phone, to hear my mother’s voice reciting the following poem. Though written over 160 years ago the words resonate today. “Oh, the comfort— the…
“The Water Skiing, College Professor, Book Editing, Mother of Eight”
I haven’t been sure how to write this Weekly Insight. My mother died this past month, and though it’s been heart-wrenching, it’s also been a time of peace. My mother was an amazing woman! One of my nieces succinctly described…
One Thing to Remember When a Racing Mind Interferes with Sleep
Some nights I sleep well. Other nights, not so much. Those restless nights often happen with worrisome thoughts and what ifs. Recently, after trying to prevent my racing mind from interfering with a good night’s rest, I was given a…
What Did Freedom Mean to George Washington?
What did freedom mean to George Washington? What does freedom mean to you? We recently celebrated Independence Day here in the United States. Every July 4th is a special time when we commemorate and give thanks for the Founding Fathers…
What if Efforts of Healthy Living Don’t Yet Show?
What if efforts of healthy living don’t yet show up in your life? I was pondering this question recently when I received an epiphany. Nothing earth shaking, but my mind and heart were suddenly opened to increased understanding. It was…