Independent Consultant with a Hawaiian Shirt

Last night we went to an engagement party. It was a lovely event: The fiances dressed to the nines as did all the family and friends who showed up there to party. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing everyone in attendance. As usual, my mind drifted off to a philosophical place. Why is it that we try so hard to impress people with our clothing and grooming? On special occasions like this, I chuckle to think that a lot of what drives our efforts is the fear of rejection by others. It is as if we somehow demand an unattainable level of perfection from each other. Yet the Perfect One who created the heavens and the earth is much more forgiving. He looks down at us and receives our best, imperfect efforts - even delighting in them as they reflect authentic relationship. So to recap, we imperfect beings demand perfection from one another. But the Perfect God is pleased with our best, though imperfect, efforts. I think we might be too hard on ourselves, and certainly on each other.

I've been home for over three weeks, and I've been able to catch up on a lot of things around the house. Here's a short recap: I cleaned my office. I can actually sit in my chair roll between the desk and the server rack. We cleaned and rearranged the basement. This was necessitated in part by some mice that found their way into the food. What a little peanut butter and a few spring-loaded traps can find... I put away my suitcases. Well, all except for one. The grass got cut. When it stops raining for a day or two I'll cut it again. I tried fixing the car, and now it's not running. It's been in the driveway for a week now. Maybe I'll figure it out today. I read three of my books for class, my last seminary class before graduation (bittersweet). I've spent lots of quality time with my wife and children. For Basma, that has been deep and meaningful conversations the likes of which we've not had the time for before. For the kids, that involves "Dad...