When I was 9 years old, my father wanted to take us as a family to visit his sister, who lived in Bermuda at the time. I credit my dad’s willingness to take advantage of moments like this that has shaped me into his mini-me. He lived by this philosophy, “stop and smell the roses …
In a session with The Keyholder, she asked about loneliness and what I do when I feel lonely. I replied back very confidently, ”I don’t allow it.” Her face had that look that indicated I had said something profound, and her slight grin indicated a playfulness guarded by a professional demeanor. Channeling her inner Tyler …
I live alone. Of course there’s Hank, but he doesn’t really count. He swears a lot, especially when I don’t throw the ball often enough or feed him on schedule. His conversation skills are limited in that way. So I end up having conversations with myself. And I’ve learned much from these talks. Specifically, I’ve …
I made a decision in 9th grade to not play football any longer. That choice turned out to be extremely important for me. It’s one that I still draw on today. I was 14 at the time. I had transferred schools in 7th grade and in an eager attempt to fit it, I signed up …
I’ve only recently discovered the Tour de France and I’m already trying to figure out how to travel to see an actual stage. It seems excessive, I know, but let me try to explain. When my late wife was in hospice at home, she spent a lot of time sleeping. I’m an early riser to …
About 40 years ago, I made a deliberate decision to live a life of faith. Even though there have been many points along the way that challenged the validity of that decision, I don’t regret making it. I have learned much along the way about the secrets of living a life of faith. But secret …
Two years ago today, I was inducted as a member into a society for which I never sought association. But since then I have gained a camaraderie with other members here that are among my richest life connections. I became a widower two years ago today. I have experienced what feels like another lifetime of …
I don’t even have to look at a calendar to know that it’s been two years. Something about how the air blows differently from the duct vents when the furnace moves air molecules versus the effect of the air conditioner. It pushes out different scents and aromas through the house. One of those scents is …
It’s good to be back. I’ve been asked if I stopped writing my blog. The answer is no, I haven’t stopped. I’ve just been in a different movement in the rhythm of my year. I finished up my second season of The Portico Experience a week ago. This has required my full attention, and my …
My dad passed away 16 years ago today. And as regular practice on this blog, I repost the eulogy I wrote and read at his funeral. It includes a story I’ve told countless times over the years. And now that story is bearing fruit in the form of young fathers with their sons, telling me …