Uphill idealist

There is a new app that is incredibly popular this week, the FaceApp . While there is a great deal of controversy on privacy, the source of the app, and the use of it to see what you may look like when you are "old"; I've been thinking about it and what I saw when I saw myself from a more aged perspective. In a world where there is so much emphasis on staying young, I wonder if we may have forgotten the importance of the wisdom that the advancement of years brings? Today would mark Nelson Mandela's 101's birthday, and as person of significant wisdom, he said this in regard to elders: Elders', "support courage where there is fear, foster agreement where there is conflict, and inspire hope where there is despair.” Courage in fear - agreement in conflict - hope where there is despair There gifts of elders: courage, peacemaking and hope; are things so needed in our homes, communities, work and world. So why is it that seeing ourselves as elder...

For more information on Thomas a Kempis and the source of this image, go to Society of Saith Pius X in Canada. Last year I purchased a copy of Thomas a Kempis's "The Imitation of Christ" for my husband as a Christmas present. The reprint I have of this text was originally published in 1418. In the introduction, Steven James explains Thomas's writing and life to be a catalyst for reader to embrace, "...the "Jesus life" (as) one of faith rather than sight, simplicity rather than extravagance, moderation rather than indulgence, sacrifice rather than acquisition, and risking the ways of God rather than settling into the soul-numbing security of the ways of the world." I'm only three short chapters into this text and feel Thomas's words and ideas directly challenging my perspectives ,yet compassionately inspiring authenticity in growth in learning how to closer walk with Christ in daily life. There is a great deal to contemplate in this short...

My it's a blustery day outside! All this wooshing wind, leaves and garbage cans reminds me of a picture of Winnie the Pooh and Piglet walking hand in hand on such a day as today. Memories of Winnie the Pooh bring a smile to my face. There are so many childhood and 'mommy' memories that come together in that hundred acre wood. Here are some of my favorite quotes from that fluffy old bear and his friends. I hope they make you smile, so put on a tea kettle and get settled in for this Pooh-Bear blustery and somewhat sentimental day. PS. Don't forget the honey, P-P-P- please. Before beginning a Hunt, it is wise to ask someone what you are looking for before you begin looking for it. -- Pooh's Little Instruction Book, inspired by A. A. Milne Don't underestimate the value of Doing Nothing, of just going along, listening to all the things you can't hear, and not bothering. -- Piglet, Pooh's Little Instruction Book, inspired by A. A. Milne I am a Bear of Very Lit...