Taking Tom Murray’s call seven years ago changed the course of my career, but in reality, more than one course was changed in Tom’s lifetime; hearts were, too.

This new year, I plan to follow my friend Karen’s lead and choose the “or.” Why? Because it’s in the “or” that life really happens.

“Wittenberg University. How may I help you?” The traditional phone greeting seemed simple enough at the small, liberal arts college in Springfield, Ohio. Yet behind the voice was so much more.

Life proved a little slower looking out at these Indiana fields, and while my speedy speech still created perplexed stares, I discovered an unmatched authenticity in our new hometown of Fort Wayne.

I stared at his hand, allowing — no, welcoming — a wave of memories to wash over me in the moment. It’s remarkable what we remember when time is no longer on our side.

Dan Nolan still remembers the moment he met an apparent angel. He was 27 years old at the time and about five years into pursuing his lifelong passion of being a firefighter.

The words about 2020 penned by several Connecticut eighth-graders reveal more than many requiring breath, thanks to one teacher who helped her students find their voice.

I had no idea that I was literally in the presence of a coaching legend. I was just showing up for a one-credit class.

When Connecticut ceased in-person education to combat COVID-19, a beloved middle school teacher had a brainstorm.

The humor that has accompanied the “new normal” has provided much needed relief.

Floodgates immediately opened on the phone that day as the magnitude of his request took hold.

The prospect of caring for something out of the ordinary was intriguing.

“If you break the overhead, we cannot leave, and you will become the enemy of everyone on board.”

When frustration starts to fuel your soul, find time to laugh. 

Then we saw it — coming down the walkway between the registers and the aisles.

I walked in only to be taken aback by what seemed like a candy cane explosion.

All I know is that I read my report in a minute-and-a-half, and when I looked up, I saw bewildered and shocked faces among my new classmates.

“Twenty-five pounds of hay! Wait? What? Where will we keep that?” I asked.