It Starts With Us

“I believe God gives life and God takes it, but we do everything possible.”

Here’s my mid-week round-up of others’ holy labor. Let me know what you like:

Early autumn always reminds me of neighborhood walks with my August newborns. First Fall by Maggie Smith takes me back: “I’m desperate for you / to love the world because I brought you here.”

Starts With Us is a movement to overcome extreme political and cultural division in America. This testimony from Deke Copenhaver about community, change, and connection is a striking reminder of what matters: “Cancer is a great equalizer.”

I’ve been loving this jazz/Gospel album from David Billingsley (who also happens to be my kid’s band teacher, unbelievably cool): Hymns From Mama’s House.

Didn’t agree with all of this, but all of it made me think. A provocative piece from Plough: The Case for One More Child. 

“I believe God gives life and God takes it, but we do everything possible.” Hummingbirds nursed to health at woman’s apartment-turned-clinic in Mexico City.

Finally, an announcement: I’m honored to be the guest judge for Verily Magazine’s first poetry competition this October. Check out the details here. So many of you have been playing with poetry with me on Instagram, and I’d encourage you to enter!

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