"I have called you by name, you are mine." These words, spoken by God, are found in Isaiah chapter 43. A name gives us identity, a sense of belonging. Our last name identifies our family. I forgot how powerful that can be until my grandsons started talking. I am, to them, Grammy. Sometimes it comes out "Gramby," and sometimes "Gram." Regardless, hearing them speak my name is a powerful reminder of our connection. Before I was ever named, I was a child of God. Child i

When my children were little, the television show about a big purple dinosaur was popular. And while it could be annoying, I remember that the show re-enforced "please" and "thank you". What I was taught were the magic words. Those three words require us to slow down and focus on someone else. Maybe we should practice them as adults. Maybe they are not magic, but thoughtful. Maybe.

Have you ever noticed how everyone's baby, everyone's niece or nephew, everyone's grandchild is the most beautiful? Why is that? Maybe because we view them through eyes of love, support and hope. What if we did the same for those born into other countries and other cultures? Think about it.

I do not have the flexibility to do a split; I no longer have the flexibility to do a somersault. But, with God's help, I want to become more flexible. I want to worry less and deal with challenges only when they present themselves. I want to reduce my feelings of defensiveness and be flexible enough to listen to others. I want to practice calming, embracing my mistakes when I embroider, rather than expecting perfection. Maybe some of this will help me to be flexible. I h