Columnists

A story of hope

There are times in your life that it's easy to struggle with how much to share. Especially in a public place like a newspaper article, it's easy to write what feels good and what perhaps, at times, something to make people think. But to bear one's soul, to share the deep, invisible struggles is...

Speak softly and carry deep-fried foods

ECHOES FROM THE LOAFERS’ CLUB MEETING Sorry, I’m late. I had car trouble. What kind? I couldn’t make it reach the 160 mph needed to get me here on time. DRIVING BY BRUCE’S DRIVE I have a wonderful neighbor named Bruce. Whenever I pass his drive, thoughts occur to me. I grew...

From the perfect fishing trip to the dog house

The perfect fishing trip blends together quite a range of different elements. Good company, great scenery, steady good weather, safe and easy travel, family, good food and a fresh fish fry, good lodging, and peace of mind. I was fortunate and blessed to experience a four-day fishing trip to...

Vocation in the Christian context

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. ~ Colossians 3:17 For most people, the word vocation probably makes them think of a job — the work they get paid for. But when we speak of a person's vocations in...

A day to make Goldilocks happy

ECHOES FROM THE LOAFERS’ CLUB MEETING You bought a used electric car? I did. How do you like the car? The vehicle is great, but coiling the 350 miles of extension cord is a pain. DRIVING BY BRUCE’S DRIVE I have a wonderful neighbor named Bruce. Whenever I pass his...

Pay attention

Years ago, when I worked in Chicago, I rode a bus each day between my office and the train station. The route went underground along Lower Wacker Drive, where homeless people often sheltered from the cold. I would wonder what it must feel like to lie on cold pavement while well-dressed people...

Say the nice thing

ECHOES FROM THE LOAFERS’ CLUB MEETING How’s your telemarketing job going? I quit. How come? It wasn’t my true calling. DRIVING BY BRUCE’S DRIVE I have a wonderful neighbor named Bruce. Whenever I pass his drive, thoughts occur to me. I was a major piece of the day’s puzzle. I...

Making my way in a vastly different world

Whenever I write I’m always proud to say I’m a baby boomer or senior citizen. A baby boomer is someone born between 1946 and 1964; we are a powerful social economic force, and control a vast majority of national wealth (over $100 trillion.) President Donald Trump is a baby boomer. A senior...

Spiritual renewal

For us Minnesotans, summers are often known for BBQs, vacations, and all things outdoors with family and friends. Part of the reason may be the unique opportunities this season offers. After all, school is out, the warm weather makes it easy to be outdoors, and our culture generally encourages...

Are you listening?

ECHOES FROM THE LOAFERS’ CLUB MEETING Only one side of my headphones works. Why do you keep using them? I can still listen to Sonny or Cher, Hall or Oates, and Simon or Garfunkel. DRIVING BY BRUCE’S DRIVE I have a wonderful neighbor named Bruce. Whenever I pass his drive,...