purdywords

Resting in the Stillness After Personal Struggle

Silence, I learned, is some times the most beautiful sound.” ― Charlotte Eriksson “Slowly, simply, silence, stillness” was my Lenten mantra, my focus, my goal for the 40 days between Ash Wednesday and Easter morning. A lofty goal, yes. Yet, I was convinced this intentional journey would yield the peaceful rewards I was seeking in myContinue reading “Resting in the Stillness After Personal Struggle”

Thoughts on Journal Writing

“The pages afforded glimpses into my soul where I’d hidden it, behind masks of paper and ink.” ― Rachel L. Schade, Silent Kingdom The greatest cure I have found to my own writer’s block is diligently keeping a personal journal. Some days, if my fingers won’t willingly dance across the keys of my laptop, IContinue reading “Thoughts on Journal Writing”

A New Year’s Hope for Radical Acceptance, Greater Kindness and Deeper Truth

“Don’t you find it odd,” she continued, “that when you’re a kid, everyone, all the world, encourages you to follow your dreams. But when you’re older, somehow they act offended if you even try.” ~ Ethan Hawke, The Hottest State On this New Year’s Eve, I am looking inward and claiming my personally perceivedContinue reading “A New Year’s Hope for Radical Acceptance, Greater Kindness and Deeper Truth”

Thankfulness for Tiny Breaks

“Rest and be thankful.” ~ William Wordsworth Three days ago, I had the pleasure of celebrating another 40-something birthday for which I am glad. My husband and children showered me with their love and attention, and I was thrilled to be surprised by a few handwritten cards in the mail from dear friends. ToContinue reading “Thankfulness for Tiny Breaks”

Being Thankful for this Blessed Life of Mine

“Remember the past with gratitude. Live the present with enthusiasm. Look forward to the future with confidence. ~ St. John Paul II At the end of a full and lively week, I am simply grateful for being given the chance to live out this blessed life of mine. Despite the difficult trials I faceContinue reading “Being Thankful for this Blessed Life of Mine”