I first heard the expression fairly recently. It was attributed to the child of a famous political figure who is very close to the extreme left of the political spectrum in our nation. While the politician’s daughter shares her mother’s political philosophy, it was reported that she gained a new perspective. The perspective was a result of her actually spending some time “up close and personal” with people who do not agree with her or her mother politically. This person had left the “hallowed halls of academia.” She had not done her research by attending political rallies, strategy sessions, or policy forums. Instead, she actually rubbed elbows and communicated with ordinary people with whom…

There is a song we typically hear each November and December with the lyrics, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” For a guy from California, I have often sneered at that song because of how I feel about the weather. I mean how can it be wonderful when I am freezing to death?! But then I think about the kinds of things I typically witness at this time of year like what I encountered this past Saturday. As I passed by a local church building, there were some teenagers outside the building holding signs and inviting anyone to a free turkey dinner. My heart was touched! All were…

I was blessed in the last few days to watch two of my children participate in programs honoring our Veterans. At each, there was a section of time dedicated to recognizing veterans according to the time in which they served. This was the first year I can remember when there were no representatives for World War 2. It broke my heart. I appreciate and honor all of our military service people in America, but the veterans of World War 2 hold a special place in my heart. I guess it’s because all 4 of my own grandparents had such special stories of how they served, both in the military and…

This past week my family has been involved in several Veterans Day celebrations. We have attended concerts and memorials and observances, all in honor of the brave men and women who have served in our country’s military. Attending these events is always such a blessing. They are replete with moments of appreciation, tears, and hearts being moved by the sacrifices and achievements of those who have served and who still serve to guard the freedoms we enjoy. At some point in each of these gatherings, all veterans past and present are typically asked to stand and be recognized. In order to qualify for this moment, you have to have served…