The wind was whistling in the eaves and howling in the chimney. Frequently the windows rattled and bowed at the onslaught. Although the sky was a stunning blue, the elements sounded as though a terrific storm was underway. It was the sound of war. She bowed her head, praying, knowing that just beyond her eye’s reach, there waged the clash of the ages. For months it had been working up to this. First the fear and panic as the world was told of a pandemic. Next, the lockdowns and financial hardships. Businesses closed. People were let go from their jobs. Prices began a dizzying spiral upward. Food, fuel, staples all…

Growing up in rural Michigan was a time of innocence and rambunctious activity. The rolling hills were perfect to run up and sled down, and the tall, stately maples were the best for climbing. From the high perch one could imagine all sorts of things – everything from pirate ships to Cinderella’s ball. The only limit was the imagination of the child. My parents provided an insulated, trusting, respectful home in which we were allowed to thrive. I could go on an on about both parents, but the focus of this post is my Dad. It is almost hard to begin to describe someone like him. I will start with…