Diamonds are formed under pressure they say. I think that any pressure that causes a black lump of coal to turn clear must be extreme to say the least. And I wonder if the coal feels like it will implode in the process, or be squished until it disappears and there is nothing left. Ultimately, … Continue reading Diamonds

A rock falls in the water. The ripples move outwardly. They continue on until interrupted, either by more ripples or the shore. Overlapping currents send even more swells in differing directions. Soon the calm surface is covered with ripples each moving in its own way, touching and creating a design of concentric, overlapping circles. They … Continue reading Ripples on a Pond

There is something about being from the south that causes me to want to move slowly in the summertime. Maybe it’s the heat, or the fact that school is out but whatever the reason, it feels like syrup is moving in my veins. (Come to think of it, maybe it’s the sweet tea.) It is … Continue reading Porch Friends

When I was a girl, my dad used to take us for Jeep rides. Many of you will remember the jeep, as well as the rides that earned it the nickname “Super Jeep.” It was a green sixty-something army jeep with a black soft top and removable doors. The back had two bench seats on … Continue reading Jeep Rides

Does anyone else out there need some perspective? I don’t know about you, but I am experiencing pressure from every side. It is as if I am treading water, I am exhausted, and I see no help in sight. My nose is just above the water and I am wondering when will my rescue come? … Continue reading Perspective

I found this description of women writers in a book Hannah brought me from Africa. It is a collection of short stories written by women from all over the continent. I know that African women do not experience the freedoms that women in America have, so I know that writing for them must be an … Continue reading Writing

I cannot describe to you what it is like to have life growing inside of you. Moms know the thrill of the first stirring of butterfly wings tickling from the inside. Over the months, the tickles turn to kicks and turns causing anyone close by to observe the miracle of movement. Strangers come and put … Continue reading Graduation

You would think I would have learned about that “judge not lest you be judged” scripture long ago in Walmart. You moms remember…before kids you stood in line and watched the mom with the screaming two year old and thought, “he just needs some discipline” or worse yet “MY child will never act like that.” … Continue reading Boomerang

Sitting in the ER I am glad I am not the one on the rolling bed this time. It is always like going down memory lane when I come here. Louise's doctor is actually the same doctor I had last time I came for abdominal pain, so it is like deja vu in many ways … Continue reading We Wait

This is from a talk I gave today at a ladies tea... Beauty I am a writer. I write what God puts on my heart, but when I speak, I want to say what is on HIS heart.. and today ladies, that is you. Today he says, “Tell them they are beautiful.” Why is it … Continue reading Beauty