Discovering faith
I grew up in a Christian family, but at 13 I declared that I was an atheist. When I was 18, I left my hometown of Rio de Janeiro with a backpack and set off to see the wo... »
Personal Accounts
The jasmine bush
My brother’s death hit me hard, perhaps because it was so unexpected. John died of a heart attack at only 51. Until then, he had seemed strong, healthy, and in the prime... »
Passion rekindled
I don't remember the first time we met; he just always seemed to be around when I was growing up. My parents made a point of inviting him to join us on summer vacations a... »
A man among men
It looked like a small settlement—rows of matching buildings on one side and neat vegetable gardens on the other. In the distance was a basketball court. Further yet, a v... »
God never lets go
Quite a few years ago, when I had barely begun my journey as a volunteer missionary, I was faced with a big decision. I was fretting and fearful and ended up struggling f... »
Postcard from Verona
I was born in the hometown of Romeo and Juliet. Every day on my way to school, I used to walk past the famous balcony where Shakespeare has the pair exchange passionate v... »
My little girl
As many first-time mothers can probably relate to, nothing holds my interest like observing my little girl. Her facial expressions, the excitement in her eyes, her curios... »
That first bite
I took a bite of omelet and silently thanked God for it. I was hungry and it tasted exceptionally delicious. I really appreciated the subtle flavors and melted cheese, an... »
Slaying the giants
Starting a new year is a bit like starting a new project. For some time now, I have been working steadily toward a dream of mine: creating a business that gives me the op... »
Finding your way
Unexpected changes have never been easy for me, and last year was such a time. I was expecting to be able to move closer to my son and his family, but found out that the... »
All things beautiful
On a rare day that I actually had a bit of time to do some organizing, I came to a realization about myself (not the most impressive one): I have a lot of “unfinished bus... »
Enjoying the journey
I’m learning how important it is to enjoy the journey and not just be enthused with the final destination. The destination does define the journey, and of course, is very... »
Day by day
As I begin this New Year, I am reminded of that popular song of the 1970s: “Day by day, day by day, oh, dear Lord, three things I pray: To see thee more clearly, love the... »