Mending Fences

What is it that defines property lines, provides security for kids, and gives privacy for parents? Fences, of course. The one in our backyard happens to be made of wood and, much of the time, is barely standing. It’s been slowly falling due to age, weather, and incessant pounding by our two dogs: Sherman, a […]

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Hope for Survival

Originally, American settlers built their homes in the center of their acreage. Later on, many of them moved to the inside corners to be nearer their neighbors. Understand, I wasn’t living back then, but from what I read, that’s actually what happened. It occurred when “Go west, young man!” was the challenge of America . […]

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Burning Ourselves: The Tongue’s Hidden Hurt

“Remember,” Smokey the Bear warned millions of television viewers, “only YOU can prevent forest fires.” But what if Smokey had faced the inferno we carry around with us daily—in our mouths? Maybe his warning wouldn’t have centered on misused matches but on combustible conversations. In fact, his public-service announcement may have sounded a bit like […]

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Being Knowledgeable

Slice it any way you wish; ignorance is not bliss. Dress it in whatever garb you please; ignorance is not attractive. Neither is it the mark of humility nor the path to spirituality. It certainly is not the companion of wisdom. On the contrary, ignorance is the breeding ground for fear, prejudice, and superstition . […]

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How Can I Manage My Anger?

Question: I’ve been struggling with anger lately. I feel like a smoldering volcano ready to explode at any moment. When I erupt, I say the cruelest things, and then I feel so guilty afterward. I don’t know what’s causing me to be so grouchy, but this seething anger is hurting the people I care about. […]

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