"Conversational narcissism is pervasive and rooted in our culture of individualism, a pattern that leads to self-absorption ... by the use of 'I' statements, by boasting, by the tactic of asking questions only in order to demonstrate the questioner's superior knowledge or to top the other person's story with one's own, and by continual shifting […]

I am still thinking a lot about the idea of listening ... I have been especially struck by the concept of "conversational narcissism" wherein people use conversations, not to listen, but as an excuse to find a way (ANY WAY!) to talk about themselves. Once you become aware of this, it is so easy (and […]

"Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips." So writes King David in Psalm 141. This is my new prayer as I start each day ... Dear God, please set a guard over my mouth. Keep watch over the door of my lips. AMEN." I met with […]

Tourist Preaching - by Frederick Buechner ENGLISH-SPEAKING TOURISTS abroad are inclined to believe that if only they speak English loudly and distinctly and slowly enough, the natives will know what's being said even though they don't understand a single word of the language. Preachers often make the same mistake. They believe that if only they […]

Remember the post I wrote about how wisdom is the art of knowing what to overlook? I should be very careful about what I write. The same day I posted that little tidbit of wisdom I was tested. This is a common occurrence for me. When I preach on generosity, I often face a test […]

A few words from King David, the Psalmist ... the author of Psalm 140 (Any minor alterations, mine.) "Deliver us, O Lord, from evildoers; protect us from those who are violent, who plan evil things in their minds and stir up wars continually. They make their tongue sharp as a snake's, and under their lips […]