Religion

“Oh thank you — they are beautiful,” I said gazing at the six bright red roses, now setting on the kitchen table.

I awoke and glanced around the room. The soft purple nightlight glowed over the sleeping children. We were in Maryland staying at the home of the Imran Razvi family, where we had come to spend a couple days to learn more about caring for little hearts who have gone through adoption.

“Children, team up!”

Last month a neighbor gave me a flat of marigolds. She knew I wanted them for my flower garden. I was recuperating from a total right hip replacement and my friend, Susan, was flying in from Sarasota, Florida, to help me out. While visiting, Susan planted the marigolds and vincas in my patio plot. As the week progressed, I was able to get around better and be outside on the patio enjoying conversations over meals and those beautiful newly planted flowers. These are ordinary pleasures.

Well, once again it’s that time of the year of celebrating academic accomplishments. Graduations are major milestones that close the door to one chapter, while opening the door to a new chapter. Oftentimes, starting new chapters is met with much apprehension and anxiety.

By gwyn stetler

Editor’s Note: Unfortunately, cats are dumped in Amish country often. So strays are a part of daily life and most Amish do the best they can to care for them, which can include spaying and neutering and taking them in when they can.

David Soliday

It was almost bedtime when the white van pulled into the driveway, towing a big black trailer loaded to the brim.

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”