takingsides
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The Shadow of Christian Nationalism
For a long time I didn’t pay any attention to the conversation around Christian Nationalism. The idea that a country could or should be governed by those who believe in Christ, to the extent that Christian values and ideals were written into the laws of the land, seemed far-fetched. Unlikely. Even, fanatical. Lately, it has…
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A Day in My *New Life
As expected, there are pros and cons of leaving the classroom and working from home. I started to write this post last week, but felt stuck for some reason, like a boat run aground. I had to wait it out until the tide came in again, and drew me out to sea. A perfectly grey…
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The Hiker
Imagine a fully-outfitted, weary hiker on a long and winding trail. A narrow trail that started somewhere long ago, in a place far away from here. The path became the way ahead, though it’s hard to say how or why the hiker’s tread now lands on this particular ground. Perhaps someone pointed the way, almost…
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Thanks Giving
Thanks You picked up the phone when I calledAsked about my kids, my lifeMessages decorated with hearts and flowers You looked up at me smiling as I taught,Encouraging a longer explanationNo, this lesson isn’t boring us Painted me pictures,Wrote me letters and left them on my desk,Brought me plants and mugs and candles, A cream…
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Was I Wrong About Covid?
A more accurate title would be “I Was Wrong to Think I Knew It All About Covid”, but that’s a long handle. I AM AWARE that writing this is guaranteed to cause misunderstanding. Perhaps some will say aHA! She finally admits it (I admit nothing) or Wow, I thought I knew her (this could be…
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Burnout
Burnout is a profound cycle of exhaustion and disconnection, often misdiagnosed as depression. It requires deep self-care and recognition of limits rather than just superficial fixes. Healing from burnout requires authenticity and rest.
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September
September is the favorite month of many people that I know. Not to be outdone, it is also mine. Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” -F. Scott Fitzgerald Stepping back from the classroom has meant being now inside the four walls of the trees, sky, road, and field. Not…
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A College Goodbye
The past week has been filled with emotional farewells as college students embark on a new journey. Reflecting on her own experience, the author urges young women to seize the opportunity for higher education and cherish every moment. She emphasizes the transformative power of new experiences and the importance of embracing independence.
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The Empty Nest
There is much to write about the phenomenon of one’s children growing up and leaving home, depending on your experience.
Stories for Humans 