Category: presence

Do You Have Room?

by Charleen Burghardt In Spain, people developed the tradition of celebrating Las Posadas, which later spread to other Spanish-speaking countries. This celebration commemorates Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Mexican immigrants introduced Las Posadas to San Antonio, where the community reenacts the journey each year in the downtown plaza. For nine nights, participants… Continue reading Do You Have Room?

The Traditon of Remembering

Charleen and Walt wishing you are Merry Christmas

By Charleen Burghardt Christmas abounds with meaningful and pleasurable traditions interwoven into the fabric of every household. These customs offer predictable rituals, like putting up a Christmas tree or attending a choir cantata. We associate the holidays with all the expected activities that connect us to our families uniquely. We associate the holiday with traditions.… Continue reading The Traditon of Remembering

The Power of Gratitude

by Charleen Burghardt “I’m weary but thankful,” I told a friend when asked how I was doing. My body may be fatigued and my emotions drained, but that doesn’t mean I am not grateful. The past two weeks have been overflowing with doctor appointments, company staying with us, extra meals to prepare, and lots of… Continue reading The Power of Gratitude

God Meets Us in Anger

man expressing anger

by Charleen Burghardt “God is big enough to handle your anger.” “God is big enough to handle your anger.” When I first heard those words during my chaplain training, they made me reconsider my perspective on anger. Can God meet us in anger? Previously, I thought God would be offended if I told him my… Continue reading God Meets Us in Anger

Unplug

by Charleen Burghardt It’s so hard to unplug from technology. Have you ever waited at a traffic stop light and felt compelled to look at your phone? You wondered, “Did an important text come in?” “What if I miss an email?” Downtime I check my cell phone fifteen times daily out of compulsion and fear… Continue reading Unplug