“When I look back, I am so impressed again with the life-giving power of literature. If I were a young person today, trying to gain a sense of myself in the world, I would do that again by reading, just as I did when I was young.”
–Maya Angelou

One of my favorite authors of suspense action novels is David Baldacci, a fellow Virginian and a multiple New York Times bestselling author. What I love as much as his books, however, is […]

“Free the child’s potential, and you will transform him (or her) into the world.”

–Maria Montessori, Italian physician and educator

Let’s talk about DEI–diversity, equity, and inclusion. Some very bright people thought it was a good idea, but the government and many corporations are now turning away from it. To quote the 60s R&B group, The Orlons: “Don’t Hang Up!” This is not a political post.

We’re in the season of Lent, a time of preparation for Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem, where he […]

“If you’re not serving the customer, your job is to be serving someone who is.”

–Jan Carlzon, (former) SAS airline CEO

I was telling a friend about my recent writers conference at Billy Graham’s The Cove. Remarking on the attention to detail and the courtesy of the staff there, I said, “They were top drawer–you know, Chick-fil-A level of service.” My buddy immediately understood.

Folks who frequent Chick-fil-A appreciate the service they get. And, lest we forget, just contrast theirs with the service […]

“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
–Esther 4:14 (NIV)

I want to borrow from and expand on an illustration I heard recently in a sermon by the Rev. Dr. Jerry Cannon. He was preaching from the Book of Esther, where Mordecai challenged Queen […]