Religion

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...

Every year, on the full moon day of the sixth lunar month, Buddhists worldwide come together to honor Vesak, which commemorates the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha. More than a religious observance, Vesak signifies humanity’s collective journey toward wisdom, compassion and inner...

With all the excitement over the election of the American Pope Leo XIV, it is appropriate to ask: what does a pope do? While a pope has several titles, the two most important would be Vicar of Christ and Successor of Peter. A vicar in...

Doubting God? That question carries far more weight than the advertising slogans we’ve heard over the years—“Got Milk?,” “Where’s the Beef?,” or “Wanna Get Away?” For people of faith, it can spark deep concern, even panic.  But the truth is, doubt is something all of...

My grandparents lived in the small town of Provo, Utah in the 1940s. Grandpa was the city’s fire chief and both he and grandma were well known and respected in the community.  One evening while driving home from a firemen’s banquet, a drunk driver crossed...