INSIDE THE BOX
Now fades the last long streak of snow
There is so much to worry about these days. . . . I was ruminating over some of those things the other morning when I saw the first little crocuses peeking their bright heads up through the still-frosty ground. . . .
Wild Geese
This past week, the weather took a turn toward spring. And just as soon as daytime temps climbed above the teens and low 20s, my daughter Simi and I saw them: the wild geese returning home. They reminded us both of this poem by Mary Oliver. . . .
Invitation to Love
Too often we assume that Valentine’s Day is all about romantic love. What a mistake that is! . . . .
Fire and Ice
I’ve been thinking a lot about fire lately, trying to wrap my head around the terrible destruction it is now causing in California. . . .
New Every Morning
As the new year approaches, people all over the world are engaging in rites and rituals that help us let go of what has been and prepare for what it to come. . . .
Approaching Solstice
During the past few weeks, as the skies have grown darker, the days shorter, and the wind more chilling, our town has come alive with lights. . . .
Of History and Hope
When I find myself feeling that there’s little reason to hope for better future, I try to bring to mind all the wonderful young people I know . . .
The Thing Is
Sitting here in the comfort of my dry, intact home in Illinois, I can do very little to help the millions who are now living in Hurricane Helene’s aftermath, but one thing I can do is wish them courage, strength, resilience, and hope. Hurricane Helene victims: this one is for you.
To be of use
What does it mean to be of use in the world? Marge Piercy addresses this question in her poem about work.
In the Company of Women
I’ve been having a bit of a rough summer so far and seem to be moving through the challenges I’m facing in a nearly constant state of overwhelm. . . .
Perhaps the World Ends Here
Helen Keller once wrote that, “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched—they must be felt with the heart.” How very true that is. And yet . . .
New Year Resolutions
As the holidays end and the new year begins, many of us—more than a third of all Americans—will consider resolving to change our lives in one way or another during 2024. . . .
Winter Solstice
For many living in the Northern Hemisphere, winter is a season of cold, dark days. And the darkest of all—the winter solstice—comes soon. . . .
