My thoughts—the simplest, clearest, and therefore most wonderful thoughts—give me peace. For the first time in my life the possibility of life presents itself to me—not in relation to any worldly matter or with reference to its effect on others, but simply in relation to myself, to my own soul—vividly, plainly, wonderfully, and as a…

As I navigate this unprecedented time of life, my therapist suggested I read James Hollis’ Finding Meaning In The Second Half of Life. It has shaken my world. In a much needed way. Hollis suggests we can change history (and our own lives) by this simple exercise. Unconditionally affirm our children by saying these words to…

Here are my ten best kept secrets unknown (mostly) to mankind. In no particular order. 1. The wineries in Bandol — The Bandol wine region in Provence, Southern France may be one of the best kept secrets in the world. While Burgundy and Bordeaux get all the press, the small independent winemakers in Bandol make…

I shot all of these yesterday. Beautiful, stunning light. Question: Which is your favorite?

When one goes through any type of suffering, choices must be made. We choose either to walk a journey of self absorption or to walk a journey of thankfulness. On the first mile of running yesterday, I realized my mind was consumed with thoughts of bitterness, anger and questions of why. I literally stopped in…

Inevitably each year at re:create, a beautiful painting emerges. This phenomenon has recurred for the past thirteen years. Refreshment, encouragement, and diffusion of ideas always stand out as the primary colors of our gathering, but it’s the pattern that emerges and surprises us, that ties the composition together and provides what Aquinas, and later Joyce,…

“Just what is the re:create Conference all about?” “What are the reasons you started it? “Why another conference? Why re:create?” “What do you want people to walk away with?” These unexpected but timely questions came at lunch yesterday from (of all people) Melissa Greene, a long-time friend and mentee (22 years), who now serves as…

These letters represent some of my most candid and intimate thoughts. They contain true confessions, passionate rants and joyful shouts from an open and oft-times wounded heart. Read close and you will hear (and perhaps feel) the lifeblood of an artist playing the rhythm of a happy sadness. Introductory Offer Paperback: $10 (plus $3.99 shipping)

When in the soul of the serene disciple With no more Fathers to imitate Poverty is a success, It is a small thing to say the roof is gone: He has not even a house. Stars, as well as friends, Are angry with the noble ruin. Saints depart in several directions. Be still: There is…

It’s hard to believe five years ago today I began this Twitter journey. It’s one of those paradoxes in time that seems longer and shorter than it really is—all at the same time. Five years. A lot has happened in five years, both good and bad. Jan. 8, 2008 As of today I have 42,134…

After almost 55 years, I am still a mystery to myself. And yet, I’m gradually and painfully coming to understand what John of the Cross called “luminous darkness,” a concept I refer to in perhaps a more “secular” way as delicious agony. These words are an attempt to describe the coexistence of deep suffering and intense joy…

I would like to personally invite you to join us at the 14th annual re:create Gathering of Creatives Feb. 4-7, 2013 in Franklin, TN. We have an amazing schedule planned this year with guests such as Audrey Assad, Future of Forestry, Trevor Morgan, author Andy Crouch, an evening with Essential Worship and much more. Legendary…