“Who or what you fear is that which controls you.” —Ed Welch, “What is the Fear of Man, and Why is it so Dangerous?” Mom learned to swim when I did. I was six. She was thirty-two. Imagine my surprise that lesson at the ‘Y’ when I spotted my strong, capable mom clinging to the…
Are you in denial? It doesn’t seem like you’re taking this seriously. Do you realize what’s going on? Actually, I don’t know what’s going on. But I do know that surgery is scheduled and that the doctor expects it will explain the seriousness and cause of this pain. There are moments when waves of “worst-case…
Note: A version of this post appeared in February 2012, the month Uncle Kevin went home. That post—I Hold Your Hand—was the first post written for JoyfullyPressingOn. Firm Hold No, Mom —no! It’s very scary. I don’t want to go. Pleeeeease—nooooo! Waterpark guests stared. Lifeguards raised their brows. I tightened my grip on the four…
Ooh. That sounded condescending, I confessed seconds after using the phrase, “So cute.” The topic? Christmas decor. What does condescending mean? asked the 13 year-old son. Like you’re God’s gift to the people you’re with. I paused, As if they’re beneath you and you’re so great to get on their level and give them the…