I’m No Superstar

I’m No Superstar is a blog for people like me who want to make a difference in the world but know they aren’t activists. Each post contains a social action idea that most of us could do, a book that’s worth reading, or a link to a website that offers other ideas. Oh, and it’s all introduced by a sometimes quirky story from my life.

It’s time to plug the leaks

I love to give to charity. It doesn’t matter if I support the food bank by rounding up my purchase at the grocery store or buy a cart full of groceries to donate, it all feels good. I am happy to support the homeless shelter with by mailing a check or serving a meal. It

End 2020 by digging a little deeper

This year has been exceptionally hard for everyone—individuals, families, businesses, organizations and nonprofits. It’s almost over. We’re collectively holding our breaths, hoping (but also scared to hope) that 2021 will ease up. Experts who study charitable giving have been surprised at how generous people were in the first nine months of 2020, even with all

Be the light (and help keep the lights on)

I love Christmas lights. I’m thrilled when people want to decorate their homes like the Griswolds’ in Christmas Vacation. One of my favorite “dates” with Les at this time of year is scoping out well-lit neighborhoods. You know what it takes to run Christmas lights? Electricity. And Americans are facing a crisis over electricity. 17%—that’s

30 Days to Pray for the Vulnerable

How you doing with your COVID-19 quarantine? I’ve had some bad days lately. In part it’s because I have been thinking how many people are in real danger from this virus. Yes, those over 65 and those with underlying health conditions. But there are so many around the world who are vulnerable to this virus

Doing the Right Thing Isn’t So Complicated; It’s Just Hard

I sat in my car and sighed. So many issues in the world. And now they want me to give up straws to save the planet. It was too much. The issues facing our world are so complex; how could I be expected to sort it all out? And then the Spirit of God cleared

This Wasn’t an Excuse to Do Nothing

Sometimes I’m really sorry Jesus said the words recorded in John 12:8 that I read in my devotional time this morning: “You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.” How I wish he had skipped those first eight words. All my life I’ve heard people use those first

Plan Now for Your Best Christmas Ever—With Gifts That Make a Difference

Every year Les and I go to the Gifts That Give Hope Alternative Gift Fair. We eat great food. Browse the information on nonprofits and choose meaningful gift donations for various family members and friends. Explore the unique fair trade gifts, clothing and chocolates offered. Maybe listen to a musical group. It’s an amazing event.

The Corners of Your Fields

Last week I blogged about homelessness. I listed five questions people ask about homelessness and poverty. Through statistics that come from here in Lancaster County, I attempted to dispel some myths and answer some questions. But I saved the last question for today—Why should my hard-earned tax dollars go to supporting them? I did that because

Baby, It’s Cold Outside

We’ve had a cold streak here in Pennsylvania. And I hate it. I hate being cold. And so in my gratitude journal these last few days I’ve written, “heat.” I’m thankful for heat. So thankful. I’m privileged. I have a warm home in which to weather the weather. Many people don’t. Homelessness is real. In

 

Have Carol Speak For Your Group

An accomplished and flexible speaker, Carol tailors her topics to fit the theme and timeframes of your meeting, conference, seminar or retreat.