Gaman (我慢) is a Japanese term of Zen Buddhist origin that offers a way to navigate challenging times. According to Julian Littler’s article in Worklife, The Art of Perseverance: How Gaman Defined Japan, Gaman is the idea that individuals should…
Year: 2021
Always Becoming
Something I have learned about having small children is that they seem to grow and change before your very eyes. I swear that after a day of work, I can come home and my sons are five inches taller, are…
Being Present
The Buddhist leader and Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh says, “Life is available only in the present moment.” What does being present mean? It is easy to be befuddled by the future, the deadlines and due dates, the things that…
Farewell Blessing
My farewell Chaplain’s Corner is bittersweet. I am quite excited about my move to Denison University next week and broken-hearted to leave the community here. Both the University of Lynchburg and Denison are in the book Colleges that Change Lives—and…
Contemplate the Possibilities
There’s a buzz on campus again as everyone is gearing up for the start of the semester. There are also a lot more visible smiles around here too, thanks to the vaccines. People are planning and getting ready for the…
Our One Wild and Precious Life
“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” Mary Oliver Mary Oliver’s question is a good one. The question invites us to intentionally consider our plan, our choices, our moments…and the finitude…
In the End, Empathy
We are moving into the hectic season of the academic year. Many are studying for exams, writing papers, and putting finishing touches on portfolios or presentations. Some members of our community are excitedly awaiting graduation and the chapter that begins…
Admire the Work
While mowing the lawn one afternoon, my wife opened the window and yelled out to me, “You look miserable.” I probably was. I am not a fan of yard work. I would rather be reading a book. Our yard is…
Bouquets of Humanity
Like so many people yesterday, I waited restlessly to hear the verdict. What would the outcome be? I had no certain expectation as to how the jury would decide. So many times before, police officers were acquitted of murder despite…
The Parable of the Pencil
(Author unknown. Shared with me by my pastor spouse. Interpretation of the parable translated intentionally by me, KSB.) The Pencil Maker took the pencil aside, just before putting him into the box. “There are 5 things you need to know,” he…
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