Annette Bridges

Annette’s goal is to offer a positive message and healing ideas in response to news, current events and life’s occasions. And she does so by frequently including personal experiences and insights learned from her own life journey. From her heart to your heart is the way she likes to think of her writing.

In February 2006, she began writing a weekly Religion & Spirituality column published by United Press International. Her weekly columns are also published on www.examiner.com and www.singlemom.com.

And she is regularly published by numerous Texas newspapers and parenting magazines as well as featured on additional web sites and blogs. She occasionally contributes to www.spirituality.com and The Christian Science Sentinel – a weekly international magazine.

This section is an archive of her published works, 2002 to today.

2010

Were you somebody's angel today? (August 16, 2010)
Could it be that you and I have the potential to be somebody’s angel? Perhaps we should not take so lightly what we say or do!

When a friend is grieving (August 10, 2010)
I still beat myself up over words said many years ago when a friend’s child died.

My Facebook miracle (August 03, 2010)
I wish parents whose marriages end, could learn how to co-parent in such a way that children never feel separated or isolated from their family.

How long do we wait? (July 27, 2010)
How do you not become discouraged, downhearted or depressed? How do you not lose hope? How do you not give up and quit trying or waiting?

What would you change? (July 20, 2010)
I think it’s important to examine why we feel we can’t or wouldn’t make a change. What’s stopping us? In short, I simply can’t allow fear to be what stops me from making a change!

Someday is now! (July 14, 2010)
One of the actors said “someday” is often another word for “never” -- that people often speak of the things they will never do. I don’t want this to be me!

When do we tattle? (July 07, 2010)
Children need to be taught the difference between senseless tattling and a legitimate complaint or concern. Many children fear the label of rat, squealer, fink or blabbermouth, but there are things children should feel free and comfortable to tell.

Stop playing the blame game (June 23, 2010)
If we are ever going to learn to be good problem-solvers, then we need a shift from finding fault to taking responsibility.

How to survive hot summer days (June 16, 2010)
My husband and I spent the afternoon in a dark air-conditioned movie theater, while another friend said she and her spouse spent the day floating in their pool. Both are good reprieves from a hot scorching sun.

Wrong again! (June 10, 2010)
When we presume that we know something to be true before we really do, envy, jealousy and false accusation can result.

The simple joy of flip flops! (June 01, 2010)
I’ve reached a time in my life when I want to take life a bit slower and easier. I especially want to take most matters less seriously. And informality is something I want in pretty much every area of my life -- church, work, travel, meals or other day-to-day activities.

Why lie? (May 25, 2010)
Some say that lying is an unavoidable part of human nature, but does this make telling a lie acceptable, excusable and always forgivable?

What are you looking for? (May 18, 2010)
I can’t help but think that perhaps our attitudes and perceptions can impact and change an outcome and change it for the better. A recent photograph a friend posted on Facebook has given me reason to reexamine my approach to some daring goals.

There's always more to a story (May 11, 2010)
Living in an age where participation on social networking websites such as Facebook are an active part of our day, we get a glimpse of how many of us are reacting and responding to national and world events.

Talking past each other (May 04, 2010)
Do you ever feel like you and your spouse are talking past each other? It’s certainly easy to conclude that our politicians on the so-called “right” and “left” talk past each other constantly!

Where the heart is (April 27, 2010)
It has been written, “Home is where the heart is.” Interestingly enough, trying to understand exactly where my heart is or what my heart is longing for, could describe the reason why I went to Italy.

A world without borders (April 21, 2010)
As I sat down on the plane, I immediately wrote in my journal: “Enlarge the border of thy tent. I have a feeling I will be learning the meaning of these words.”

Give me that mountaintop view! (April 13, 2010)
The butterflies and anxiety I felt before boarding the gondola left almost immediately as I stepped foot on the mountain. With every step, I gained an air of calm, confidence, composure, equanimity and self-assurance that I’ve never felt before.

Is balance really achievable? (April 06, 2010)
It isn’t difficult to understand why our days could feel off-balance if they are missing something that we feel is essential to our happiness, peace-of-mind, or well-being.

Lighten your load! (March 26, 2010)
Reportedly, overpacking is the biggest travel mistake as well as the biggest life mistake we all make at times. Our life need not be backbreaking.

Throw away your to-go cup! (March 25, 2010)
Italy and cappuccino have taught me what it means to “live in the moment.” No longer are these just words that sound like a good idea.

We're making history (March 09, 2010)
It’s hard to believe that I had almost forgotten that March was National Women’s History Month. I think the women (and men, too, for that matter) who capture my greatest respect are those who do whatever it takes to overcome some impossible obstacle.

A story waiting to be heard (March 08, 2010)
I’ve always been told that good communication begins with good listening. And I’ve often wondered how many misunderstandings and conflicts could have been avoided by better listening.

Get off your high horse! (March 03, 2010)
Arrogance will poison any relationship -- whether the relationship is between husbands and wives, parents and children, bosses and their employees, or leaders and their constituents.

Leave the pity party! (February 23, 2010)
Perhaps we’ve all thrown one of these at least once in our lives. Maybe we know some folks who throw one every day. My favorite occasion for a pity party is when I’m feeling unappreciated and misunderstood.

Give it all you got (February 17, 2010)
No matter their gender, age, nationality or sport, Olympic athletes exude a spirit of endeavor that inspires me to keep reaching for my own dreams and goals. And I want to cheer them on as they reach for theirs!

Stop putting off! (February 02, 2010)
If you’re like me, to stop procrastinating is easier said than done. But I’m getting tired of promising myself that I won’t wait until the last minute next time. I’m putting a stop to putting it off!

Just keep going! (January 27, 2010)
Maybe traveling isn’t as easy as it once was. Maybe it takes longer to get where you want to go and do what you want to do. Why should you stop going and stay home?

What is God's will? (January 19, 2010)
Every time disaster strikes, there will be those that conclude God’s will is at work. But I just can’t believe that God’s will for His children is pain and suffering.

Difficult is not impossible (January 05, 2010)
If we’re going to make and implement goals, we need to believe our goals are attainable. Believing something might not be possible is surely self-defeating.

What's faith got to do with it? (January 04, 2010)
How many times when making a resolution, taking an action or when thinking about something you’re striving or hoping for, are you apprehensive, doubtful, leery, skeptical, unbelieving, wary or uptight about the desired results?

2009

Be a trailblazer! (December 29, 2009)
Are you ready to blaze a new road on your life journey?

Hear comes the New Year (December 21, 2009)
A Facebook friend recently commented, “I’ll be happy to see 2009 in my rearview mirror.”

Make the time (December 14, 2009)
How many times have you said, “We’ve got to get together sometime?” But that time never happens.

Peace among enemies (December 09, 2009)
Sometimes I think too much about everything that’s going on in my life or a family member’s life or what’s on the news. And I want to stop thinking and just have fun!

Cook up something new (Spirituality.com, December 08, 2009)

Follow your star! (December 02, 2009)
Like the wise men of old, we don’t always know exactly what to expect when we get to the end of our search.

Ready for Christmas! (November 22, 2009)
This has been a rough year on many fronts. And I’m ready for how the Christmas season makes me feel. How about you?

Why be thankful in tough times? (November 17, 2009)
When we’re struggling with depleted savings, job loss, limited income, separation from family or illness, it can be hard to see the light at the end of what feels like a very dark tunnel.

How will you spend your Black Friday? (November 09, 2009)
Sometimes I think too much about everything that’s going on in my life or a family member’s life or what’s on the news. And I want to stop thinking and just have fun!

Who doesn't want to feel God's presence? (November 04, 2009)
Are you struggling with depression, loneliness or fear and wondering where God is? You’re not alone, my friend.

Making a comeback (October 28, 2009)
Every football season I’m inspired by the number of teams who trail by thirty points or more for most of a game and then make a comeback and win. What does it take to make that kind of recovery?

Do you need more fun in your life? (October 20, 2009)
Sometimes I think too much about everything that’s going on in my life or a family member’s life or what’s on the news. And I want to stop thinking and just have fun!

Cook up something new (October 13, 2009)
Cooking is not the only area of my life that has become stagnant, boring or not working as efficiently and creatively as it once did. And I suspect I am not alone.

Remove your mask! (October 06, 2009)
For many of us, it seems easier to be someone other than our real selves. I admit that it has sometimes been more difficult to be my real self than to create a façade for a Halloween party.

When we don't see eye to eye (September 30, 2009)
Should we be angered that a neighbor or a brother has a completely different stance and viewpoint on an issue -- an issue equally important to both of us?

Good temptations (September 27, 2009)
Whether we call it a hunch, a vibe or a feeling in our bones, we all have an innate spiritual intuition that would point us in the right direction if only heeded.

Are you dreading the days ahead? (September 23, 2009)
Do you have days you don’t look forward to? Or do you have days you dread with every fiber of your being? Today is one of those days for me.

Don't let Debbie Downer get you down (September 08, 2009)
There seems to be one in every crowd -- the naysayer, the voice of doom, the predictor of bad tidings. And she or he generally shares a depressed view of the world with everyone they meet.

Who says you can't go back? (September 01, 2009)
The desire to go back doesn’t mean I expect or want things to be the same. But there is comfort in going back to what is familiar.

Go fishing! (August 25, 2009)
I’m intrigued by the intensity of focus that trout fishing required of me. Once I began fishing, I thought of little else. This mental state of mind is a far cry from my day-to-day experience when home.

Never stop learning (August 11, 2009)
“What is something you would learn if you had the chance,” the survey question asked. I was stumped.

Bikinis come in all shapes and sizes (August 05, 2009)
I sat in my sand chair wearing my one piece, I might add, as women in bikinis walked by. So why couldn’t I join in their beach brigade?

Try a little compassion (July 21, 2009)
Have you found it easy to show compassion toward a friend or family member -- or even a stranger -- who’s having a tough time but you get angry or frustrated with yourself when your own life falls short of your ideals?

Come hell hay or high water! (July 15, 2009)
My husband inadvertently taught me a lesson this weekend on how to set priorities and keep them.

Surprise me! (July 12, 2009)
My husband surprised me last night. But now I’m wondering if my surprise had more to do with my low expectations than it did in his action.

Inspired by freedom (July 02, 2009)
Today I learned about the penning of the hymn “America,” as many of us call it. I don’t remember ever knowing anything about its origin before now.

When simple is not-so-simple (June 24, 2009)
The Dalai Lama once said that simplicity is the key to happiness in the modern world, and yet for many of us, simplicity feels like the impossible dream.

Indelible memories of Dad (Spirituality.com, June 19, 2009)

The love in Daddy's hands (June 16, 2009)
Children may not always understand their dads. We may get very little time to know them. Memories of my dad are brief and few and yet they are very vivid.

Raise your bar (June 09, 2009)
Maybe you’re tired of shooting too low for yourself -- and having others who expect little of you or for you.

Resolve to keep your heart young (June 02, 2009)
I suspect many of us fondly recall -- and at least some of us long for -- our youthful days of less responsibility and more energy.

Let the shoe fit! (May 26, 2009)
What is it that makes us doubt, question or disbelieve our talents, abilities and worthiness?

What to do when you can't decide (May 19, 2009)
When we have a strong instinct that we should not do something, we probably should not do it.

Don't be shy! (May 12, 2009)
The problem with being shy is that the impact is far-reaching. We are not the only one who loses or is hurt.

A mother's hug (May 06, 2009)
Maybe we can’t always have our mother’s hug. But that doesn’t mean we can’t feel the same assurance we felt in her arms.

Always a misdiagnosis! (April 28, 2009)
In trying to console a family member who was about to get a diagnosis that would reveal whether a tumor was benign, I pondered the meaning of “diagnosis.”

Have you joined the Susan Boyle fan club yet? (April 20, 2009)
Susan’s video is expected to soon become the most viewed YouTube clip of all time. As of this “moment”, her Britain’s Got Talent audition has been viewed more than 100 million times on YouTube.

The courage to try (April 14, 2009)
The model of courage we have witnessed in Capt. Phillips and his crew inspires us to see that we all have the ability to take actions that can result in life -- in our happiness, in our satisfaction, in solutions, improvement and progress.

A room with a view (April 8, 2009)
I’m learning that when disappointments, fearful speculations, regrets, complaints or any of life’s miseries or pressures threatens to bury us into a tomb of despair, there is a spiritual view that will show us the way up, out and onward.

Prayer or panic (March 31, 2009)
When the going gets tough, I’ve found leaning on God is better than panic.

Golden counsel for faceless communication (The Christian Science Sentinel, March 30, 2009)

Let us learn from each other - Part II (March 24, 2009)
May you have many “Aha!” moments, my friends, and share these precious lessons with everyone you can!

Let us learn from each other - Part I (March 18, 2009)
When we share the lessons we’ve learned with another, we may be giving that person the inspiration, encouragement, hope or wisdom they need at that moment in their own life.

Is it spring yet? (March 10, 2009)
I’ve become determined to exchange my fearful anticipation of a difficult future for a brighter outlook.

Had any “Aha!” moments lately? (March 3, 2009)
An “Aha!” moment is a turning point -- a landmark juncture -- when you know your life is never going to be the same.

Do you hold grudges? (February 25, 2009)
Some say it’s human nature to hold grudges. Perhaps so, but even still, we always have a choice.

Confessions of an over-reactor (February 12, 2009)
I knew my getting all worked up was blowing everything out of proportion and was not going to help me accomplish what I needed and wanted. But the “Drama Queen” in me needed to be reminded.

The road to romance (February 3, 2009)
I wish someone had told me, “He’s just not that into you!” I might have been spared days (or weeks) pining over what I thought was lost love.

In search of a happy ending (January 26, 2009)
I believe in a happy ending -- or future. It’s just that simple. I don’t want to ever buy into the idea that the world is cruel and dark and people are damned.

Are you too busy? (January 22, 2009)
Must our obligations and responsibilities keep us from taking time to appreciate what’s happening around us?

When to think twice and when not to (January 13, 2009)
If you are dissatisfied with your life, one of the best approaches could be to act more like the person you want to be rather than sitting around analyzing yourself.

Change is in the air (January 07, 2009)
Some say beware of change simply for the sake of change. For me, change has been more of a good thing rather than bad.

2008

You can make a difference (December 29, 2008)
We have the potential to make a great difference in the lives of everyone with whom we meet and interact.

Begin the New Year with a new you (December 25, 2008)
Nothing can be more daunting than trying to reconfigure yourself, reinvent your life, and redefine your future -- especially when the task arrives unexpectedly.

Once upon a Christmas dream (December 15, 2008)
Christmas in any age brings the promise of dreams fulfilled.

Christmas blues (December 03, 2008)
May hope and peace of mind be yours this Christmas and every day of the year!

The appeal of "Twilight" (November 24, 2008)
If you had told me a year ago I would like a love story between a teenage vampire boy and a mortal girl, I would have said you were crazy. My daughter convinced me to go see Twilight with her and I’m glad she did.

Nothing to be thankful for? ( November 19, 2008)
Recently I came across a blogger who asked the question, “Can we be thankful for the things we don’t want?” What do you think?

Mickey Mouse and me ( November 12, 2008)
Mickey’s story can fill us all with hope today. It’s a story that reminds us the day is darkest before the dawn and the dawn always comes.

What were your childhood dreams? ( November 06, 2008)
Have you asked yourself lately how you're doing on accomplishing your childhood dreams? I had not given this much thought myself until I began reading the book -- The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch.

Can this election end with civility? (Spirituality.com, October 30, 2008)
Facing stark differences of opinion within her own family, a writer prays to support unity and civility as the end of the election season approaches.

I gotta get out of this place! ( October 28, 2008)
It seems I’m not alone. According to a new national poll, three-fourths of Americans (or at least those questioned in the poll) are feeling angry, scared and stressed out.

Joy - Even on dark days (Christian Science Sentinel, October 27, 2008)
Even as the TV screen flashed images of raging water, a flood survivor was able to express humor in the midst of his own catastrophe. I was impressed.

Can this election end civil? ( October 20, 2008)
My family’s presidential preferences remind me of a Civil War family’s divisions -- with some choosing to wear blue and the others gray.

Never doubt your worth! ( October 14, 2008)
Have you ever let another’s words make you feel inconsequential, useless and of no purpose?

When change is not the change you want (October 7, 2008)
The upcoming presidential election, the media's continued misuse of polling results and other changes I'm not looking forward to this fall has inspired this column.

Just fix it! ( September 30, 2008)
I may not be an expert in economics, but I have survived difficult times and prospered in spite of having little money.

What if...? ( September 24, 2008)
How many of your decisions and actions are interrupted or halted by “what ifs”?

Why should we remember? ( August 29, 2008)
The 7th anniversary of what many consider the most abominable tragedy in our nation’s history is upon us -- September 11, 2001. Yes, our nation saw the face of evil that day. But we also saw the face of good.

Go for the gold! ( August 26, 2008)
Do you lack the confidence to pursue your dreams? Consider this: You can’t succeed or fail if you never even try!

When faith falters ( August 19, 2008
A recent trip to a remote area of Colorado proved to be a telling experience for me as I was forced to grapple with what I believed about God, life, death and evil.

Olympic-size quest for peace ( August 15, 2008)
It is difficult to imagine mutual respect, acceptance or even tolerance among the many cultures of our world. Yet despite the differences that I was certain existed in political and social philosophies, I saw unity of purpose in the eyes of each athlete.

Don't miss a thing! ( August 05, 2008)
Some scientists say human beings have a curious capacity to take things for granted. I know there are many things that have become routine and expected in my life. How about in yours?

Honoring our fallen soldiers ( July 28, 2008)
This piece tells about my struggle with guilt after learning of the B-52 crash off Guam a few days ago. For the first time, loss of American soldiers hit close to home for my family.

Tackling tough problems ( July 23, 2008)
Do you have problems that seem impossible to solve? You might want to consider how Einstein approached a problem.

Do you ever feel like your day left without you? (July 08, 2008)
Perhaps you’re feeling like me and you’re tired of life moving too fast and you want it to slow down.

Home of the brave ( June 29,2008)
Have you ever asked yourself, “Am I willing to stand up for something greater than self -- an ideal, a hope, a vision -- and would I sacrifice my life to ensure those ideals live on for the benefit of others?”

All the things I've always wanted to do (June 23, 2008)
Are you feeling that somehow it’s too late, that there isn’t enough time left to start something or reach a new goal or be whatever it was you wanted to be when you grew up? What if I could prove you’re never too young or too old to achieve something new?

But God wants us to be happy! ( June 16, 2008)
Perhaps the best advice anyone could give us is to stop waiting for happiness to come galloping over the next horizon. We need to take a stand and fight for our right to be happy right now -- right where we are.

Father's Day for a country boy ( June 09, 2008)
This message can be for city boys, too. It’s about the qualities that make a great dad.

For the love of a dog ( June 03, 2008)
Research has found that people with canine companions have fewer medical problems and recover more quickly from serious illness. I know I feel much better after I spend quality time with my dachshund!

Walking among the giants ( May 28, 2008)
The giant redwood species have been on earth over 110 million years. Is there something to be learned from a life that is far older than us and one that has endured many obstacles?

Put the bad dream behind you ( May 21, 2008)
Perhaps you feel like you are living a bad dream right now. It has been through looking closely at Jesus’ healings that I’ve been learning how to lift myself out of bad and difficult life experiences.

A hero returns ( May 14, 2008)
As I sit here and anticipate the next Indiana Jones saga, I can’t help but sigh and say -- in the words of Marian Ravenwood from Indiana’s first movie -- “Indiana Jones. I always knew someday you’d come walking back through my door.”

Is ignorance ever bliss? ( May 7, 2008)
There have been times in my life when I would have answered yes. But if our head is in the sand, how will we see the solution that could be right in front of us if we were looking for it?

What to do when we goof ( April 29, 2008)
Any American Idol fans out there? My inspiration for this column came from watching how Brooke White handled her "goof" last week. One of my first thoughts was -- I'm glad I don't have millions watching me when I goof!

Effective disease prevention - prayer (Christian Science Sentinel, April 28, 2008)

Why do we believe the worst? ( April 23, 2008)
Could it be that we tend to believe the worst because we want the worst to be true? Yes, I think our leaders often bear the brunt of our worst beliefs, fears and opinions. Especially in an election year!

A daffodil story ( April 15, 2008)
We all probably receive more forwarded emails than we ever have time to read. This one caught my attention and taught me a valuable life lesson about reaching goals.

When something old becomes new ( April 09, 2008)
Many times in our lives, so much is placed in front of us - crowding or overwhelming our point of view - that it is sometimes difficult to see everything that is going on all around us.

Plan to be surprised! ( April 02, 2008)
Are you a devout planner, or do you fly by the seat of your pants? If you're devastated when your plans fall short, you are not alone.

Humanity's progress report ( March 26, 2008)
Human history has been one of progress, sometimes accelerating and sometimes slow moving. But the wheels of progress will keep moving us all forward, as they must, ever so steadily.

An underwater guided to life ( March 19, 2008)
I'm wondering if I could ever approach the rest of this great, big world of ours with the same consideration, courtesy and civility that I give to our ocean world and its inhabitants.

A spiritual look at the serious face of bullying (Christian Science Sentinel, March 03, 2008)

What a difference a day makes ( Feb. 27, 2008)
It's leap year! Do you feel like one day merely follows the next with little difference, so you see no benefit to adding one more day to your weary year? Read on, friend.

Why did you want to kill me? ( Feb. 20, 2008)
Public shootings have become more and more rampant. I don't pretend to know what goes on in the minds of these gunmen. But I have spent years wondering what my dad was feeling that made him want to end my life and his.

A marriage saved from the green-eyed monster (Feb. 13, 2008)
Sometimes people equate feeling jealous about someone with loving them. I'm here to tell you that jealousy is not love but rather the fear of losing love.

What influences your vote? ( Feb. 06, 2008)
Bias in regard to political party has never been my problem. But there would have been a time when I would have based my vote on race, gender, religion and/or age. But those days are gone and I'm wondering: How did I get here?

In a desperate search ( Jan. 30, 2008)
My question is: Why do we often turn to God as a last resort?

Stop looking for blame ( Jan. 23, 2008)
Looking for blame is generally a way to distract attention from the real cause to a problem, and it prevents us from searching for and finding solutions.

Don't stop dreaming ( Jan. 16, 2008)
There's no reason to lose anticipation for life with its many adventures, lessons and rewards. But there are infinite reasons to live our God-endowed life to the fullest.

Are you surprised by good? ( Jan. 09, 2008)
Have we become so cynical that we expect people to behave badly rather than do good or for bad things to happen rather than good?

A golden opportunity (The Christian Science Sentinel, Jan. 07, 2008)

2007

You can be a miracle worker! (Dec. 19, 2007)
Don't belittle the effect you have on those around you. It's not some small miracle that our paths cross.

A Christmas love note (Dec. 12, 2007)
A dear friend of mine emailed me recently to say her precious mother had passed on. I hope she and everyone will find some comfort in the love notes that follow.

'Golden Compass'? I asked my daughter! (Dec. 5, 2007)
As a young woman who reads widely and goes to see the latest movies, my daughter was the right person to ask about the controversy surrounding the upcoming release of 'The Golden Compass.'

Keeping our cool this holiday season (Nov. 28, 2007)
Why is the season of peace, love and goodwill also a season notorious for raising people's stress levels? Are we too caught up in trying to create the perfect Hallmark holiday? Have we forgotten the reason for the season?

Don't miss out! (Nov. 21, 2007)
Not doing something or not trying something can become habit-forming. But habits can be broken.

Thankful living (spirituality.com, Nov. 20, 2007)
Too often we focus on what we think we lack rather than on the abundance constantly provided to us by God. Read how the practice of gratitude changed this woman’s outlook for the better.

To forgive oneself (The Christian Science Sentinel, Nov. 19, 2007)

How prepared are you? ( Nov. 14, 2007)
If you had to flee your house in the next five minutes, would you be ready?

Something to smile about ( Nov. 7, 2007)
I don't believe happiness is found, but rather, I think it's chosen and lived.

Facing down fear ( Oct. 31, 2007)
Being afraid doesn't always mean we're in danger. More often, fear is a debilitating and life-limiting emotion that creates much anguish, and generally all for naught.

Putting an end to childhood bullying ( Oct. 24, 2007)
Whatever the reasons that one child bullies another, we can save our children by helping them to discover their spiritual identity and to act like the children of God that they are.

Jumping to conclusions ( Oct. 17, 2007)
Why do we jump down paths that are frequently, if not usually, wrong? Perhaps because, when jumping to the wrong conclusion, we're generally insisting we're right.

Don't distress over your mess ( Oct. 10, 2007)
A simpler lifestyle is achievable, and it isn't just about having less stuff.

Why can't we live together? (spirituality.com, Sept. 27, 2007)
Praying about the "Jena 6," Annette recalls a time when she prayed about the racial integration of her Texas high school.

Why can't we live together? ( Sept. 26, 2007)
For some, the showdown over integration began 50 years ago. For me, it was 35 years ago. For others, the battle wages on. When or how does this war end?

You too can be a survivor ( Sept. 19, 2007)
Maybe you're not interested in being applauded as the 'ultimate survivor' in the hit TV series 'Survivor.' But, no doubt, you will have many opportunities in your life journey to proclaim, 'I survived!'

Always in good company (spirituality.com, Sept. 13, 2007)
When Annette's husband embarks on his annual sporting trip, she finds the spiritual strength to face down her feelings of loneliness once and for all.

Breaking free from routine ( Sept. 12, 2007)
This vacation has stretched my view of myself from a woman of limited abilities to a woman of God's creating with infinite abilities and potential.

Why is the first step the hardest? ( Sept. 05, 2007)
Some people never even begin their journeys (realizing their dreams or making a change), because often the first step seems just too difficult. And so, they stop before they start.

Is there a measure for love? ( August 29, 2007)
Perhaps it's not possible or necessary to measure one's love for another, because our love truly is more than mere words could ever express. But I still want my husband to tell me how much he loves me.

Why not seize the moment? ( August 22, 2007)
Our comfort zone may be comfortable, but it also offers nothing new.

You're not alone! (August 15, 2007)
If you're feeling misunderstood, isolated, alienated and that you have no one to turn to, you have something in common with Harry in the movie 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.'

What did I forget to pack? ( August 08, 2007)
'Don't forget to pack prayer!' Indeed, the most important thing we need to pack when we travel doesn't require luggage.

Girl talk may depress you ( August 01, 2007)
Don't let unwanted memories become ghosts that haunt you the rest of your life. Yes, confront them. Then - dismiss them, banish them, reject and disown them. Simply blot them out with God's all-encompassing love.

Something to believe in (July 25, 2007)
My daughter bought the final Harry Potter book at a midnight release party and didn't turn on her television until she had finished reading the book. What drives this kind of passion?

A climate in crisis...so they say (July 18, 2007)
I'm no expert on weather and climate changes. But I am tired of allowing the weather to have so much control over my life!

Would you give up your seat? ( July 11, 2007)
Every day there are opportunities to be someone's hero. What if the occasion meant putting your safety second to another's?

Defying differences with love (The Christian Science Monitor, July 05, 2007)
'Us and Them' strife is a call to prayer

Make today your independence day! (July 04, 2007)
Freedom - peace in mind, body, spirit - is a divine right. But like any right, it needs to be practiced, put into action and, at times, defended.

Birthday Blues (June 27, 2007)
I think we give age too much credit and power over our lives. I've decided to be like my grandmother. No one was ever certain of her age.

What might have been (June 20, 2007)
Call it failed expectations or perhaps lost opportunities, looking back on my life lately, I've been struggling to overcome feelings of regret.

On a wing and a prayer (June 13, 2007)
If your dad, husband, brother or son is away from home this Father's Day, remember the World War II song that reminds us of God's unwavering protection.

The 'D-days' of our lives ( June 06, 2007)
Sometimes 'D-days' are planned and expected and sometimes not. No doubt, each of our lives has been filled with significant events that have become momentous and transforming landmarks in our life journeys. Jesus certainly had his share of 'D-days.'

What do you take for granted? (May 30, 2007)
Sometimes we don't realize what was good until it's gone. We must not wait until we lose something to place a high value on what we have.

Life Lessons from 'American Idol' (May 23, 2007)
The season may be ending, but the life lessons are only beginning for the contestants. These same lessons are true for any graduate and for the rest of us, too.

Joy in a dark day (May 16, 2007)
Your sense of humor may be the best medicine for your health, can assure a happy marriage and will help you get through any catastrophe in life.

Multitasking madness (May 09, 2007)
Jesus didn't practice multitasking to accomplish his great mission - but, rather, the art of mindful living.

Don't be your own worst enemy (May 02, 2007)
Individuals who experience traumatic events often struggle with guilt - not only survivor's guilt, but also guilt for actions not taken.

What's age got to do with it? (April 25, 2007)
What if the stories of seniors' achievements were not thought unusual but rather the normal and natural continuation of life and purpose?

When size matters (April 18, 2007)
As children of God, we are each equal recipients of a treasure trove of spiritual skills and abilities that equip us to meet and master any 'Goliath.'

Forgive and change your world (April 11, 2007)
The power of Christly love and forgiveness helped me leave anger and self-justification behind for a future of harmonious relations with my neighbor.

A view to the Passion (April 04, 2007)
What does it mean to 'drink of his cup' and 'partake of his bread'? Christ Jesus illustrated the meaning of his transforming words with healing and regenerative works. We can do no less in our discipleship.

There's a cure for complainers (March 28, 2007)
The Devil knows how to keep the complainer complaining. Whether you're the giver or the receiver of complaints, take heart, my friends: There's a way for both of you to beat the Devil at his game.

Is humanity in critical condition? (March 21, 2007)
Jesus has been called the best man who ever walked the earth, but he was also the most criticized. What advice would he give to our destructive, criticizing ways?

Too late? Maybe Not! (March 14, 2007)
Do you feel like you've missed the boat, that it's simply too late for you to go for your dreams and attain them? The example of a woman who didn't even begin her 'career' until after 50 tells me I'm not too old to go for mine.

No 'us and them' in God's eyes (March 07, 2007)
It often seems impossible to see anything but our differences. But Jesus' teachings speak to more about what binds us rather than what separates us.

Is there really greener grass out there? (Feb 28, 2007)
Measuring ourselves against others is a fruitless exercise and an incredible waste of energy. The truth is, there's no one like us, and this makes us incomparable.

Angels among us (Feb 21, 2007)
Every dialogue with Shirley was one of self-discovery, and I was changed by each and every visit. She saw the best in me and helped me to see it, too.

Defeating the intolerance within (Feb 14, 2007)
In order to fight my own internal struggle against intolerance, I decided I needed to look again at the greatest of all Jesus Christ's sermons.

Looking for love? (Feb 07, 2007)
My mother never looked for a man and didn't appear to want one. Yet men seem to be irresistibly drawn to her, like bees to honey. Perhaps my mother has some helpful advice for those looking for love.

What ants can teach us (Jan 31, 2007)
Obstacles in their path do not stop them. They refuse to give up. Clearly, they are examples of courage, expectancy and determination.

Life is like a game of football. No, really! (Jan 24, 2007)
Who would have thought that watching this year's football play-offs would lead me to reach some life-reaffirming conclusions?

Every decision is an opportunity (Jan 17, 2007)
God has equipped each of us with the spiritual sense needed for making good decisions. If we utilize our spiritual sense, we will be prompted toward right thinking which will direct us to the best course of action.

Leave your mistakes and start anew (Jan 10, 2007)
The apostle Paul doesn't expect us to have all the answers for the future. We simply make strides, however slowly, however long it may take.

Beating the new year blues (Jan 03, 2007)
Are you beginning the new year with confidence and expectation or with dread and trepidation?

2006

Keeping the Christmas feeling (Dec 20, 2006)
We don't have to pack away those warm fuzzy feelings we have for our fellow man this time of year.

Happy Christmas, and we had nothing (Dec 13, 2006)
I was 10 years old the Christmas of 1968. We had little money, no income, no home, few clothes and no toys, and we were separated from other relatives.

Christmas, miracles and all things possible (Dec 06, 2006)
Country-western singer Joe Nichols' lyric "I've learned to never underestimate the impossible" inspires my childlike enthusiasm and hope that anything truly is possible.

The greatest gift: 'Today' (Nov 29, 2006)
One day it hit me: Time wasn't the culprit. Time was actually more of a self-imposed limitation.

Gratitude - the path to joy (Nov 22, 2006)
With gratitude as the premise for every thought, feeling and action, how would your day change? Do you doubt that your mental state impacts everything and everyone around you?

Giving thanks for our selfless heroes (Nov 15, 2006)
Although he was not present at our Thanksgiving dinner table, his empty place was set. We didn't raise our forks until we first expressed our gratitude for his service to our nation.

Here's wishing you a near-death experience (Nov 08, 2006)
Tim McGraw nailed it when he sang, "Live like you were dying... like tomorrow was a gift."

Be a landslide of one (Nov 01, 2006)
Don't think your vote matters? Consider this. . .

The Bible: My management guidebook (spirituality.com, November)

Jesus didn't allow any energy leaks (Oct 25, 2006)
Here's a great problem solving role model for a day of impossible roadblocks.

Don't be fooled by the view (Oct 18, 2006)
Mistaken impressions, rash judgments, believing the worst - we've all been there.

Where's your prayer closet? (Oct 11, 2006)
We can follow Christ Jesus' prayer instructions wherever we are - at work, grocery story or stuck in traffic.

Let's talk marriage (Oct 04, 2006)
It's often a political, social and religious hot topic. It's often discussed as what it could be or should be or isn't. But marriage to me is...

Feeling how God sees me (Sept 27, 2006)
Many times, when I've been struggling with some problem or challenge, I've found it healing and transforming to consider what I believe the God-view is of me.

Oh to be a child again! (Sept 20, 2006)
I wanted to get up and dance, but I didn't. When do we lose our impetuous, uninhibited childlike self? How can we get it back?

To say or not to say (Sept 13, 2006)
Like missiles that once in the air, cannot be recalled, our words can leave indelible marks on hearts and lives. We all need to be more mindful of what we say and write.

The emptiest nest (Sept 06, 2006)
My world was about to change. It was September 2001, and my only child was heading off to college.

One divine caregiver (spirituality.com, Christian Science Sentinel, September)

So you had a bad day (Aug 30, 2006)
Some people are resilient and can bounce back like silly putty. Others break a nail and are road kill the rest of the day. Fortunately, there's an antidote for the road kill days.

How big does your nest egg have to be? (Aug 23, 2006)
What if The American Dream is not about fame and fortune at the end of it all? What if it's about the journey.

Imagine John Lennon's dream (Aug 16, 2006)
John Lennon sang, "Imagine there's no countries . . . nothing to kill or die for." He sang of the world living as one, living life in peace, a brotherhood of man. Can you imagine that?

Defending against the Texas drought (Aug 09, 2006)
One need only turn on the television, while trying to cool off in the air conditioning, to feel like we inhabit a world out of control. Can prayer really make any difference?

Yoda: 'Do or do not. There is no try.' (Aug 04, 2006)
A possibility thinker dares to imagine. He doesn't let perceived limitations, such as age -- or even drought -- stand in his way. He doesn't allow past failures to halt present actions. He doesn't view failures as mistakes but rather lessons learned.

Jesus likes our potential (July 26, 2006)
We need only watch or read news headlines to get a depiction of humankind that is not very desirable. One that says the nature of man is dishonest, murderous and so forth. But Christ Jesus says we have a spiritual nature. Really?

A journey of detours (July 19, 2006)
Lately, I've been wondering what my life would be today without my past mistakes.

In a conversation with God... (July 12, 2006)
It's sometimes difficult not to role-play the dramatic scene of the day, starring the stress-filled me, the angry me, the sad me, the bewildered me or some other "me."

The rainbow behind the trees (July 05, 2006)
I was taking my bath, getting ready for bed, when my mama unexpectedly came through the door. She promptly whisked me out of the tub to make a quick escape from her bitter and angry ex-husband - my dad. He hadn't been able to accept the divorce.

The changing face of change (June 28, 2006)
Anyone who knows the military would advise, if you fear and resist change - don't become a military spouse. Tell that to my daughter.

Hope beyond lip-service (June 20, 2006)
Telling others not to give up hope is a no-brainer. But do you really, honestly believe what you say?

Spirituality shines at summer box office (June 14, 2006)
Jesus Christ would certainly not be surprised that religious themes and imagery are appearing in popular culture's medium for storytelling - from books to films to television to music to technology. He understood the impact of a parable.

Gratitude, hay baling and pedicures (June 07, 2006)
The big horizon before my gaze reminds me how infinite life is. And whatever troubles have been burdening my heart begin to seem quite small in contrast.

The beautiful absolute of truth (May 31, 2006)
Truth is what it is. Whether it is what I've always believed or something entirely different, I want to know the truth.

Free will's blessing (May 24, 2006)
We all have choices to make. Some choices are not easy. Some take us down roads less traveled. Some choices require confronting and overcoming our fears.

Yes, you CAN go to college! (May 17, 2006)
Prayer to God had always brought solutions in the past, even in financial matters. Why should I doubt now? Could I believe there might be a situation or condition when God had no control -- where God was powerless?

A mother's greatest gift ( May 10, 2006)
Her achievements against great odds have instilled in me a conviction that anything is possible. Perhaps the greatest gift a mother could give to her child.

The last second before you die (May 02, 2006)
It took my breath away when she told the first thought that came to her as she tumbled in the water: the Psalmist's words "I shall not die, but live."

Courage on United Flight 93 (April 26, 2006)
What greater actions are there than to do what is right? Actions impelled by pure and selfless motives. Not prompted by ego or inspired by grandeur of self.

The Bible as a textbook (April 19, 2006)
A company I worked for did an exercise in which each manager picked a Bible character and discussed his leadership and management qualities and skills. This turned out to be a great exercise, and I think we all learned much on how to improve our management.

Every day can be an Easter! (April 11, 2006)
His crucifixion was not the end of the story. Evil didn't win the day. How important for humanity that Christ Jesus' life example continued with his resurrection and, ultimately, his ascension.

Why pray? (April 04, 2006)
I suspect no scholarly study of prayer's impact on health would be considered definitive, even in the academic community. Therefore, the underlying question for me is: Why should scientists and physicians continue to test prayer?

Jill Carroll safe in Iraq - thank God! (March 30, 2006)
"Journalism is a public service and readers are best-served if I and the people I am writing about speak the same language." So wrote Jill Carroll, freelance reporter on assignment for "The Christian Science Monitor."

Too late? Maybe not! (newspapers, March)
Do you have dreams that have never been realized? Do you feel like it’s too late to act on them? Well….maybe it’s not!

Beating the New Year Blues (newspapers, January)
Are you beginning the New Year with confidence and expectation or with dread and trepidation?

2005

A soldier's wife talks about her prayers (spirituality.com, December)
Many families in the United States, Great Britain, Japan, Canada, Australia and elsewhere have loved ones serving in the military in trouble spots around the world. This interview explores how the author's daughter deals with the anxiety of having her husband serving in time of war. But any individual with a loved one in the military will recognize her concerns.

More now, not more time (spirituality.com, December)

Sometimes I think about how much time I’ve wasted worrying about not having enough time. It’s a vicious circle. I get nothing done because I’m too busy fretting about not having enough time to accomplish what I want to do.

The Greatest Gift (newspapers, December)
What’s the greatest Christmas gift in the world? Perfect for any age or gender?

Giving thanks for soldiers around the world(spirituality.com, November)
This is my family’s first holiday season with a loved one deployed overseas. Our son-in-law, Justin, is serving in the United States Air Force. It’s been a difficult time, but as we’ve been praying, the idea for a new tradition emerged.

A Day for Thanks Giving (newspapers, November)
Homecoming celebrations. Platefuls of turkey and dressing, cranberry sauce and pecan pie. Perhaps a feast less about food and more about family

Surviving the Storm (newspapers, October)
When I think of the thousands of families displaced by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, I can’t help but travel back in time when my life was traumatized by a storm of events.

Facing a change? You can more than just cope. (newspapers, September)
Change comes in countless forms. Some life-altering. Some predictable. Some we choose. Some are imposed on us. Like those that are so sudden they uproot our secure and stable routine, and send us swirling into unwanted transition.

Why pray? (newspapers, August)
Surveys have stated that millions of Americans pray regularly. And millions believe prayer can have a healing effect.

Dream lesson from Daniel (The Christian Science Sentinel, August)
How well I remember the Bible stories read to me as a child! Throughout my life, The Bible has been my life coach. If I need guidance of any kind, I know I can find it in the Scriptures.

Looking for love in the right place (spirituality.com, July)
The summer following my junior year in college, I was feeling pretty devastated and dismayed. Here's why: Although I really wanted a college education, I also believed I would find a husband while I was in school. I had just broken up with my boyfriend, however, and was no longer hopeful that my husband was on campus, waiting for me to show up.

Purposeful Parenting (spirituality.com, July)
July has been given the distinction of National Purposeful Parenting Month. Purposeful. That’s practical and sensible. Something most parents aspire to be.

A long time ago in a theater far, far away . . .(newspapers, June)
It was a day that would not be forgotten. One of those unsuspecting defining moments that touched my life. I saw movies most every weekend, but Star Wars would be unlike any movie I had ever seen before.

I'm going to college -- but how will I pay?spirituality.com, May)
I never thought about not going to college. During the fall semester of my senior year I was busy, like my classmates, sending out college applications to my top choices. Of course, I had a favorite: a private liberal arts college in another state. And in January, I got the good news—I was in!

Will hope save the world in Hollywood? (newspapers, May)
Newspaper headlines tell the story. “When Dogma Meets Drama on Television.” “It’s the End of the World – on NBC.”

I don’t want to give up on life (newspapers, April)
When our care becomes the responsibility of loved ones, they could be faced with decisions that shouldn’t be theirs to make.

My Easter lesson: "I forgive you" (spirituality.com, May)
After four years of daily exposure to my father-in-law’s “I know best” attitude, my resentment was building up. I found him opinionated, arrogant and domineering. Especially concerning my daughter. And this time things went too far.

How I re-discovered my Mr. Right (spirituality.com, May)
I fell in love with John while standing in line for an amusement park ride. City girl meets country boy. Seven months later, we married. I had found my Mr. Right. But soon I found out he thought his first name was “Always.”

How to Forgive the Unforgivable (newspapers, March)
There’s something about Easter. .... One Easter long ago became a time for me to learn about forgiveness and love.

Think your life is over? Think again! (newspapers, February)
In the past few weeks, newspapers and the airwaves have been filled with scenes and news of devastation and images of despair. Yet scattered among the procession of tragedies have been incredible tsunami survivor accounts.

What if you couldn’t fail this year? (newspapers, January)
Why bother making new year’s resolutions? After all, the odds are that you’ll fail to achieve them.

2004

Gratitude is my new attitude (spirituality.com, December)
“If mamma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.” I laughed about this at the time, but these words on the magnet I got for Christmas 1998 from my daughter, Jennifer, really described how she felt.

Christmas, Miracles and All Things Possible (newspapers, December)
Do you believe in miracles?I’ve read lots of the lological definitions of a miracle but I think many of us might simply define a miracle as that which is unlikely, impossible or unexpected, but yet it happens

There's no "mid-life" in eternity (spirituality.com, November)
I’m almost 50. Half a century. For 21 years of my life, I focused on raising my only child. Then she graduated from college, married and moved to another state. Some people experience mid-life crises at this stage of life—I know I started thinking things I’d never thought about before

Thanksgiving – More Than a Season (newspapers, November)
The season of Thanksgiving is upon us. This means sales to the Hallmark Card Company.

Post Election Day prayers (spirituality.com, October)
It was my first presidential election. And my candidate of choice lost the race.

One Vote Can Change the World (newspapers, October)
You say you never vote? Or maybe you’re too busy to take time to vote? Why should you bother? One vote doesn’t make a difference. Or does it?

Is war necessary in the 21st century? (newspapers, September)
I saw this question on a Gallup Tuesday Briefing recently and wondered how many future generations will ask such a question. For over thirty years, Gallup polls have asked Americans their views on the need for war, whether Americans saw war as an outmoded option or as sometimes necessary. I found it interesting, but not surprising, that American viewpoints on the necessity of war changed significantly post 9/11.

You mean I can't go to college with my daughter? (newspapers, August)
My world was about to change. It was September 2001 and my only child was heading off to college. I had been anticipating this moment for the past year. Well, actually, I had been dreading it.

I said, "Enough!" to a bad temper (spirituality.com, July)
“You have your daddy’s temper,” I was told growing up. After my dad passed on when I was 10 years old, I remember my mom saying, “I think he spent most of his life mad about something."

History – The Road to the Future (newspapers, July)
The supreme purpose of history is a better world,” spoke former President, Herbert Hoover. If this is true, what happens when history is not recorded correctly or if we stop studying history?

Speaking of Fathers and Presidents (newspapers, June)
As I sit in front of my television watching President Reagan’s flag-draped coffin being lifted into an airplane, I am swept back thirty-five years ago to when my dad’s flag-draped coffin was carried.

The Choices We Make (newspapers, May)
Service to this country through the armed forces has long been a choice made by many members of my family – my dad, two of my brothers, my uncle (who lost a leg in WWII), my father-in-law and currently, my son-in-law.

A Role Model for Success (newspapers, May)
What if I told you that one of the smallest of God’s creatures knew the secrets to being successful? Can you guess what critter I’m referring to? The Bible has the answer in Proverbs.

I can feel the peace of prayer anywhere (spirituality.com, April)
I love to pray sitting by the seashore. I have sat for hours enraptured by the vastness and infinity of the broad view.

A View to the Passion (newspapers, April)
With all the hype, how could I not see the film, The Passion of the Christ, ― although I was not the first in line?

Women Inspiring Hope and Possibility (newspapers, March)
It’s a story that needs to be told. Many women have left their imprint on history, but her-stories historically have not been published. Women have touched and changed lives, and their beneficiaries do well to recognize those who have impacted their lives.

A Lesson from the Sea (newspapers, February)
Sometimes I feel like I’ve lived my life waiting for vacation to vacation. In between each anticipated excursion, I would be dreaming, planning and longing. My very favorite vacation has taken me seaside.

Living in the here and now (newspapers, January)
Made New Year resolutions you hope to accomplish? Goals you want to meet before another year passes? Starting instead with the present moment may set you on a path to reach your aspirations.

2003

Never beyond God's help (The Christian Science Sentinel, August)
I was alone in my bedroom lying on the bed. The pain in my chest was so intense that I couldn’t move. I couldn’t cry aloud for help. Was I helpless? What could I do?

An attitude of gratitude (newspapers, November)
I’ve come to understand gratitude as an attitude that is consciously chosen regardless of circumstances.

2002

Peace in times of family turmoil (The Christian Science Sentinel, December)
Christmas 1968. We were on a westbound journey. I don’t think we knew what or where our final destination was.

Gratitude made these memories (Dallas Morning News, December)
One Christmas long ago, I discovered a priceless treasure in giving the gift of gratitude.