Religion

Words are powerful. They have the ability to shape our lives and the lives of the people around us. A simple phrase can encourage us to be brave, remind us of our worth or even change the direction of our future.  Think about the times...

There comes a time, perhaps many times in life, when our faith is challenged and the religious path that we have chosen is questioned by unbelievers. Sometimes this line of questioning leads to social pressures that can lead a once faithful person to question...

I believe in you. You picked out a great outfit this morning. You have what it takes to accomplish the tasks in front of you. You are going to make someone smile today. Did any of that lift you up? Make you smile? There’s no...

It happens every year. Right around the time kids have mastered the art of sleeping until noon, playing video games all night, and consuming every last snack within a five-mile radius, summer quietly packs up and leaves. Along with the beach trips, popsicles, relaxed...

What is happiness? We all look for happiness, but happiness is in our own actions, not in our possessions.  Happiness is about what we do every day. Happiness is not just about being a good person and doing nothing, but about doing good, doing the right thing,...

My wife and I just celebrated the tenth anniversary of our move to Morgan Hill. We arrived in town as newlyweds. Three homes, four kids and countless Andy’s Orchard peaches later we continue to feel an immense gratitude for our South County community. As I’ve...

As many around the world celebrate New Year’s Day with fireworks, parties and resolutions, Muslims mark the beginning of their calendar year in a very different way: through quiet reflection, spiritual renewal and remembrance of profound historical events. The Islamic New Year, also known as...

We all know someone who seems to be cheerful and happy no matter their circumstances, as well as someone who can never be satisfied. So, what’s the difference between the two?   I believe that in some way, gratitude is a major contributor to one’s glass...

Our days are filled with extreme concerns for our immigrant population, especially refugees seeking asylum in the United States. Levels of anxiety, uncertainty and fear seem to rise daily, not only for those who are directly affected but by those of us whose faith...

I had a call a few nights ago from a good friend. She had just heard some news and she needed a person to listen while she talked and processed what she had heard. We have been friends for many years and this was...