Thinking Out Loud

I'm considering whether I want to continue the daily practice of writing. Originally, I set a goal to write daily for one year. I have now written daily for 17 months. My thoughts have definitely evolved and thinking out loud has transformed me deeply, but as my desire to one day write a book has waned--basically, I've come to realize that I'm never going to say anything someone hasn't already said. There are no new truths and I'm probably not the best person to communicate truths anyway--especially because the longer I live the less sure I get of anything I thought I knew and the more certain I become of how little I know. But since I consider the evolution of thought and transformation of character a nobler endeavor than writing a piece that becomes a New York Times Best-Seller, I am reticent to jettison the daily habit. So perhaps I will adopt a compromise. I shall simply write when I feel moved so to do. This concept is difficult for the "all or nothing...

Jesus said "Blessed are the peacemakers." I find it interesting that he didn't simply say, "Blessed are the peace lovers." There is a difference between "loving peace" and "making peace." I don't know many people who love conflict and tension, yet they seem to create it. IMO it is easy to say we are for peace, but harder to remember to work for it. When we find our actions generating anything contrary to peace, we should stop and work for a peaceful resolution. Blessed are those who not only love peace, but also work for it. Blessed are the peacemakers.

Luke had a dentist appointment after school on Tuesday. Since I was at work, he rode his scooter. Later, I received this message via Facebook from the dental assistant: Janelle I hope this isn’t weird to you. I work for Kip Jones I’m not sure if you’d even remember me. Anyway, I was working today when your not so little Luke came in. I just wanted to tell you how impressed I was with him. What an outstanding boy you have, incredibly happy, upbeat, positive and respectful boy. I was so impressed by the spirit he carries; not only did I notice but so did the other ladies in our office. I couldn’t help but think “gosh dang his mom is doing something (probably lots of things) right!  Just thought you might want to know how amazing you are and how amazing he is. If you wanna ever mom tutor me, I have three boys and I would be so proud to have my kids behave and have the confidence Luke has. I replied: Oh my gosh! How could anyone think such a thoughtful compliment weird? You...