So, I've been in a slump. This is the time when I have to eat some of these words I'm so willing to dish out to others. I've been going through a period of uncertainty: what am I doing, is it the right stuff, is it enough, should I be somewhere or something else, what's it all for, and blah, blah, blah. I so want my life to mean something, that I start to question everything. And, is that a good thing, or a bad thing? So, for my appetizer, I will eat this: "Stay in the moment." When the call comes, LISTEN. When I'm teaching, do it with all my heart. If I'm reading, pay attention. When I'm with someone, don't be doing 3 things at once! Then, for my entree, I will plan my time, not rigidly, but purposefully. And, for my side dish, when things upset my plan, I will tend to them as though they are just as purposeful. Then, for dessert, I will use those little in-between moments for prayer, and song, and thought. And I will believe that my prayers will be answered, and leave the meaning to God. Oh, and I will drink a refreshing cup by doing something kind for someone else.

Did you hear the bells on Christmas day?

So, it's been a while. Fall came and went. The holidays came and went. Winter is in full swing. And you? Did the time just somehow vanish? Did relatives and friends come and go and after cleaning, shopping, preparing, visiting, wrapping, cooking, baking, singing, traveling -- did you just breathe a sigh of relief that at last it was all over? Did you struggle and rush and stress through, or did you stop to drink in the purpose of it all? Were you thankful on Thanksgiving? Did you make a stop at the Menorah or the Manger? Did you take some pictures of your mom or your child or your friend? Did you sing some carols and really think what you were singing about? Did you ponder 2010 and consider 2011 as the party paused on December 31st? Well, it's gone. And that's ok. But if you have regrets about that, take some time now. Write someone, call, sit and talk, or better yet, sit and listen. Pray, and then listen more. This day is nearly over, too. It's not too late.