I remember the time when there were big after Christmas sales. A lot of the items that were left over or did not sell well at Christmas were discounted so that the companies could get their cash outlay back, even if they did not make any profit. Then a few years ago there were sales even before Christmas. Black Friday sales, Cyber Monday sales became a new thing to grab a bargain. Even the month before Christmas. Now it seems like these sales start at the beginning of November and go right through to the end of the month. Great for Christmas shopping but where will it end? Ever seen…

As I was sifting through my thoughts and actions over the past few days the scripture in Psalm 139 verse 23 came to my mind. Search me, O God, and know my heart;    test me and know my thoughts. Psalm 139:23 NRSV I was in a conversation with God. Asking Him to look at my heart. To search through it. To check out it’s spiritual rhythm and readjust it if need be. Upon looking up the scripture in my Bible, to make sure I remembered it correctly, my glance fell upon the next verse, 24. See if there is any wicked way in me,    and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm…

One of the most unsettling things in your work life is when you get “evaluated.” A time when your boss, manager, supervisor rate your progress from the previous evaluation or from the beginning of the year. You always hope the feedback is positive but often there is one or more areas where it is pointed out that you could improve upon. This can motivate you to improve but for some it can be quite de-motivating, especially when you have been trying so hard. It can be frustrating when you’ve done your best but still you are lacking. Often the supervisors are comparing you to other co-workers. Some who are more…

“Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you.” This scripture came to my mind when my brother shared with me something that happened to him. My brother, Peter, was walking along a main street in the town where he lives on his way to his accountant. He was in the final season of working and was planning his retirement. He was walking at a brisk pace so as not to be late for his appointment. Suddenly he heard a voice, invading his thoughts. He looked around to see its owner but did not see anyone at first. The voice repeated…

It is nearing the end of year where schools and students start selecting who will be the school leaders and school representatives for the following year. I have a grandson and a granddaughter going into their final years of school and they have nominated themselves for a leadership role. They both must write a speech that only goes for 3 minutes, presenting why they should be chosen. One must give it live to the school while the other must film it (on a phone) and present it first to the teachers that vote, and the students also can nominate 3 names to put forward. A bit nerve-wracking for them. Well…