People, in general, like structure. We build our lives around the structure of the family, the workplace, and even our faith. As a Catholic, I belong to a highly organized religious structure, and most Protestant churches also have clear structures within their denominations or even in individual churches. Typically, we know who is in charge.... Continue Reading →
Last week I wrote about how to deal with the fact that some people do not like us. It is just as important for us to turn this around and look at people we do not like (admit it, you don't like some people). I've had struggles with coworkers on campus that I "didn't like"... Continue Reading →
Given the choice in life, I prefer it when people like me. I like it when people say nice things about me behind my back, say "what a great guy" I am, and generally think I make the world a better place. This seems rather obvious, but it is important to note especially since I'm... Continue Reading →
Over the past year, we heard President Scogin speak often about hope. He loves that our college is named "Hope" and he encouraged us to embrace hope as we worked through the pandemic. And, now, here we are again. It is time for Hope College and it is time for hope. The word "hope" carries... Continue Reading →
Yesterday, our Hope College graduation ceremony had a challenging start to it. First, Hope Reynolds, a graduating senior, told her story of being diagnosed with breast cancer and all she has gone through in the past year. It was a tough story to hear and her journey is not over. But she was certainly inspirational. Then,... Continue Reading →
by James B. Delaney My father, Chief Warrant Officer 4 James Delaney, was a pioneer serving as one of the first African-American helicopter pilots in the United States Army. He served his country for over 30 years, taking our family throughout the United States and Europe. Yes, I am an Army Brat. My dad passed... Continue Reading →
The quality of our presence is the most positive element that we can contribute to the world.Thich Nhat Hanh I was struck by this quote from Thich Nhat Hanh, a Buddhist monk. The quality of our presence is the most positive element that we can contribute to the world. It is one of those simple... Continue Reading →
"A house divided against itself cannot stand." In 1858, a young politician quoted this phrase from Matthew 12:25 in his acceptance speech of the Republican Party in the race for the U.S. Senate. The famous "house divided" speech made the then relatively unknown Abraham Lincoln a national figure as he spoke out against slavery. "I... Continue Reading →
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!Psalm 150 I’m a “sigher” as my wife would say. When I’m presented with something I don’t like or am unclear about, I stop and let out a sigh. She finds it to be one of my less enduring qualities. And, yet, I’m finding more and more support for what... Continue Reading →
Breaking News: At the British zoo Lincolnshire Wildlife Centre, keeping some of the bird residents' vocabulary limited to G-rated language has proven challenging — and park employees had to go as far as separating five African grey parrots to squash the swearing. According to the Associated Press, Billy, Eric, Tyson, Jade, and Elsie — who all were... Continue Reading →
Monday Ruminations 