Last weekend, my neighbor Guillermo invited me to go with him to our apartment complex's front yard. He was obviously excited. So, I went and watched as he harvested a head of celery. I observed that many leaves had dried. (Look at the rest of the celery on the left.) Guillermo, a retired microbiologist, explained … Continue reading Me and my big mouth
Beware of joy-robbers and strength-stealers
A few days ago, I saw my neighbor Alma covering the window of her brand new car with plastic. ¿Qué pasó? (What happened?), I asked. She explained that someone had smashed the window and stole her son's iPad which he had left at the backseat. Her son learned a very painful and expensive lesson, but … Continue reading Beware of joy-robbers and strength-stealers
The 4 K’s of Filipino Gatherings
Dahl and I had a great time with many new Filipino friends today. We celebrated our country's 115th anniversary of independence from Spain. As in all Filipino gatherings, we did the 4 K's. Kuwentuhan - sharing a lot of stories Kainan - eating a lot of food Kantiyawan - teasing each other a lot Kodakan … Continue reading The 4 K’s of Filipino Gatherings
Alan drinks when he misses me.
Our son Alan, who is studying in the US, called my wife on Skype two nights ago. As they were talking, Dahl noticed that he was drinking something from what appeared like a beer bottle. "Alan, what are you drinking?" she asked. "Root beer, mommy" he answered. "Every time I miss Dad, I buy and … Continue reading Alan drinks when he misses me.
Men need to hear things twice. Men need to hear things twice.
At Union Church today, Daniel preached an excellent sermon in preparation for Father's Day next Sunday. His personal reflections in his journey as a Christian husband and father were very much appreciated. The reminders he gave to fathers like me were piercing. But at the beginning of his sermon, he addressed the men in the … Continue reading Men need to hear things twice. Men need to hear things twice.
At least they know Manny Pacquiao!
As I introduced myself at the start of my sermon yesterday, I asked if anyone in the congregation has been to the Philippines. Nobody raised his hand but somebody shouted, "Manny Pacquiao!" Others smiled as they recognized the name of our pambansang kamao (literally, national fists). It is surprising that many Costa Ricans are Pacquiao … Continue reading At least they know Manny Pacquiao!
Clear intentions 