Supposing will cost you
“I suppose I can do this.” This was my initial thought when I first went to make mayonnaise. My dream was to have a sandwich with mayonnaise. And I was…
My career in banking
Early in life, as I tried to find my way, I decided to apply for a job as a bank teller. I'm not quite sure what possessed me to think…
I’m very good at packing
I am very good at packing. While I have some degrees and certificates, I think I must be better at packing than anything else. I know how to pack for…
Take words
“Take words with you, and return to the Lord, say to Him, ‘Take away all iniquity; receive us graciously, for we will offer the sacrifices of our lips.’” Hosea 14:2…
Remember me
For a bit of background, this poem was written in June 2002 when I visited Finland with my mother. I am a first generation American, born to Finnish parents who…
Tom on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, 1987
One more time
It hasn’t been longSince I last heard your crying to be fed in the nightAnd I held you close, rocking you til you sleptHolding you for hours in my armsSeems…
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The school of storms and Fish: how to reach Ninevah
At the start of every New Year, words like "resolutions" and "vision" make an appearance. Plenty of books, articles, and sermons are available on how to set goals and realize…
Thousands of hours
I have spent thousands of hours journaling during my lifetime. It’s a discipline I learned many years ago. There are times when I journal more than others, but I rarely…
Jude, a servant
We’re in the middle of studying the book of Jude at church here in Pretoria. (If you’ve never taken time to dive into a study, I recommend this one. Just…
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Strange and difficult so far and we’re not done yet
This has been a strange and difficult year so far. In 2024, we have seen and will see over 60 presidential elections held worldwide. I can’t imagine the total amount…