I am seeking a vocation. At 67, after completing the inquiry phase, I am beginning the three year process of formation to become a professed member of the Franciscan Secular Order. I am changing. I have been taking a variety of classes in art, writing and different things that interest me since retiring. Obviously, professingContinue reading “My vocation”
Author Archives: nakedsoulthoughts
Shall we walk?
A big heart, empathy, and compassion– Sometimes, I listen well, offer compassion and empathy. Sometimes, I receive. What is the secret? Do I take a pulse on how you are doing? Am I able to walk with you, to be there? How well can I listen, just listen in that moment? I think of JesusContinue reading “Shall we walk?”
Why Do I Write?
Three years ago I started writing during the pandemic. I had a lot to reflect on. I thought I was ready for a blog about eighteen months into the process. Some blogs came easily. Other days, my writing struggled. with God’s help, I needed to do more work on myself. So, I’ve been sporadic aboutContinue reading “Why Do I Write?”
Intersections of Faith
This post is an intersection of three things: Previewing/learning through Tami VanHoy’s book “Conversations at a Table for Two” a wonderful guide to deep prayer to be released in September. Recognizing how anxiety affects my prayer life as well as other aspects of my life. Insights on my efforts to find what my calling isContinue reading “Intersections of Faith”
A Prayer of Gratitude for Gentle Counsel
A Reflection on Isaiah 58:9-14 I lose sight, I doubt, but I turn and turn again to your words, oh Lord.I ask you to feed me with your body, your blood, and your insights. Help me, O Lord, to discern clearly, to seek wise counsel, to accept it graciously. I cannot solve the problems ofContinue reading “A Prayer of Gratitude for Gentle Counsel”
Where are my hot dogs?
Where are my hot dogs? Most of the time I can manage my anxiety. I struggle with it most when I am physically ill, especially when I have a fever. For a number of situations, I have built myself a toolbox of canned responses to particularly common situations that I encounter. That’s partly an approach,Continue reading “Where are my hot dogs?”
Choosing Today
A feeling, temporary, wings through my body and emotions. A certain powdered sugar and fried sweetness that I taste and smell, evokes the joy of past Christmases and plates of rosettes and krumkake accumulating on the counter. The feeling lingers for a moment, dissipates, leaves a smile on my face. If I choose, I canContinue reading “Choosing Today”
Armor of God
I put on the armor of God yesterday. I have been full of anxiety. I have been prideful, I have been righteously indignant–tipping the scales into anger–about the country’s lack of concern for social justice. So, I sought confession to hold myself accountable. Catholic confession includes an act of contrition and a very strong resolutionContinue reading “Armor of God”
Christian Nationalism
How can anyone believe that Christian Nationalism is authentic Christianity? It makes God small, because it always argues national superiority. Pride of country that subjugates God to a single nation. Pride that in practice expects God to serve a country rather than expecting individuals to serve God. Excessive nationalistic pride, regardless where it arises, isContinue reading “Christian Nationalism”
If I Write My Truth, Will I Hurt Someone?
We worry that we might hurt someone else’s feelings if we write our truth . . . Yes, I do worry about that and it matters to me. I write to heal. And someday I want to produce my story in a book form that will help my daughters heal. I know there are waysContinue reading “If I Write My Truth, Will I Hurt Someone?”
Naked Soul Thoughts 