I guess I've always been an optimist. People typically describe me as "bubbly" (a word I hate) but I am outgoing. Often, this is mistaken for shallowness. Those who know me best would never describe me as bubbly. They know that when I approach someone I don't know -- or anyone for that matter -- and try to get to know them it's because I really do care. I wear my emotions on my sleeves; never been good at hiding them. In high school a girl asked me why I was so happy all the time. (I miss...

I almost categorized this subject as "history" as I sighed heavily, approaching the topic -- ironically, with my fingers on the wireless keyboard. No one writes hand-written letters anymore. I say no one, and that's simply not true. I do, and that's at least one person. I have two friends who do and that's two more. But practically no one handwrites letters anymore. This is one of the single most distressing characteristics of our culture to me. I'll explain why. I spent all four...

A couple were celebrating their 50th. Someone asks, "What is your secret?" The woman says, "Three words I had to learn for happiness: you're probably right." They look at the man to see what he says about that. He looks at the woman, smiles, and says, "You're probably right." What's more important to you? Being right or being happy? When you enter an argument with anyone, decide which is more important and act accordingly. Also, with relationships, I might give a humble suggestion. Deci...

Lilly Tomlin said the reason humans developed language is because of our deep need to complain. If we couldn't complain, where would we be? Have you ever fasted? Our pastor asked us to spend a week fasting from negativity. I like to think I'm a very positive person. In fact, I'm usually so positive people comment on it. However a complete fast from it was nearly impossible for me. (I am typing this article to complain about complaining if that weren't enough.) As a teacher, I've noticed t...

Was Jesus crazy, a liar, or telling the truth? It seems to me these are the only options we have, as presented to us by C.S. Lewis. I don't believe he was crazy. Christianity is not the only religion that recognizes and embraces him as a wise and worthy teacher. The Jews and Muslims also recognize his actual ministry on earth, the occurances of his life, and his teachings. He was also rather logical. I don't believe he was a liar. Again, he's recognized by more than just Christianity a...

Do I believe there is one person for every person, specifically meant for them? Wow, what a deep question. I used to not beleive that. I'm a logical, practical person. I used to say, "no. one can be perfectly happy with a number of people on this earth and seeing as how a huge factor in who we marry is 'proximity,' how can there be only one person anyway?" Not very romantic? I agree. I had a boy I dated challenge that thought. Well, it was one date. I think it was one date because I d...