In Others’ Words: A Thanksgiving Prayer

Beth VogtIn Others' Words, Quotes, Thanksgiving 12 Comments

  Thanksgiving Day is the day after tomorrow. I paused for a moment after I wrote that sentence … caught my breath and thought, Is that correct? Thanksgiving is that close?  Yes, it is. I spent Monday grocery shopping, prepping for Wednesday, when family comes over and helps with the day-before cooking. That’s a newer family tradition that makes Thanksgiving Day much more relaxed. We’ll …

In Others’ Words: Future Trust

Beth VogtFaith, In Others' Words, Quotes 7 Comments

Sometimes things just take time. I know today’s quote by theologian Henri Nouwen talks about “the fruits of [our] labors,” and yes, there are times when our efforts don’t pay off right away. Months, maybe. Even years. You’re a fine, upstanding employee … but the promotion doesn’t happen. You do all the right “writerly” things — attend conferences, rewrite manuscripts, pay …

In Others’ Words: Chasing the Dream

Beth Vogtdreams, In Others' Words, Quotes 9 Comments

It’s the middle of November, which means I’m thinking of Thanksgiving … and then Christmas … and then the New Year is is fast approaching. Are you feeling breathless yet? This is the time of year I often look forward and backward at the same time. I consider what I wanted to accomplish during the past year — did my dreams …

In Others’ Words: You, Yourself, and the World

Beth VogtIn Others' Words, Quotes, Relationships 8 Comments

My daughter CJ has been part of her high school Varsity volleyball team for the past few months. This weekend, my husband and I will be in Denver cheering them on as they compete for the 3A State title. Here’s one thing I’ve learned about the team: Each member knows their place on the team — what their job is, so to speak, as an offensive …

In Others’ Words: Questioning Faith

Beth VogtFaith, In Others' Words, Quotes 7 Comments

I know this is election day in the U.S. — but this is not an election day post. I don’t do politics on this blog or any other social media. I did vote, in case you’re wondering. And I did pray about the election. One thing I do know is, come what may today, tomorrow, the next day … God …

In Others’ Words: Practicing Gratitude

Beth VogtGiveaway, gratitude, In Others' Words 6 Comments

It’s November, the month when our thoughts more easily turn toward thankfulness. After all, this is the month when we have an entire day devoted to giving thanks — and weeks to prepare for the celebration. And yet, isn’t it true that when we want a reason to be thankful we don’t have to chase after “extraordinary moments” of happiness? …