Category Archives: Stories

A Leaky Bucket Tells His Story

Posted on August 18, 2014 by Esther Hizsa

Here is a story (and my first guest post) by my friend, Tim Fretheim. The idea for this story originally came from an illustration he heard at a retreat given by Rob Des Cotes. My post about the leaky bucket … Continue reading →

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Faces

Posted on August 15, 2014 by Esther Hizsa

Every time I looked up from the pulpit to give an illustration or make a point, I would notice the expressions on people’s faces. What were they telling me? A smiling face says, “Preach it, sister!” An intent look says, “I’m … Continue reading →

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One Uncomfortable Adventure

Posted on August 8, 2014 by Esther Hizsa

So, I’m on an adventure into the deeper, bluer freedom of being myself. Yeah. Right. Remember what Gandalf said to Bilbo. “I am looking for someone to share in an adventure that I am arranging, and it’s very difficult to find anyone.” Bilbo … Continue reading →

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The Real Story Begins

Posted on August 1, 2014 by Esther Hizsa

I was as restless as a cat. I’d pack a few things then check my emails. I looked over the list of items to bring to the SoulStream Partners’ Annual Retreat. Check. Check. What? A photograph of myself? Why hadn’t … Continue reading →

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Wasting Money

Posted on July 25, 2014 by Esther Hizsa

Every time I turned around, something was costing more money: a haircut, local produce, a restaurant meal. Then the theatre company called to say that the matinée performance we booked in our subscription was sold out. Should Fred and I change shows or … Continue reading →

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Me and My Shadow

Posted on July 18, 2014 by Esther Hizsa

I am hesitant to confess this to you, because when I do, you will find evidence that it’s true. And where that leads, well, that makes me both nervous and hopeful. So here it is: I am pretty self-centred. I often put myself … Continue reading →

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Something Exciting Is Happening on Your Block

Posted on July 4, 2014 by Esther Hizsa

Meet Chester Filbert. He lives at 5264 One Hundred and Seventy-Seventh Street. He is frowning because, as the title of the book explains, nothing ever happens on his block. The reader soon discovers, however, that the joke is on him, … Continue reading →

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And How Will You Wear That?

Posted on June 27, 2014 by Esther Hizsa

It isn’t just fear, shame and judgment that are placed on me. I receive compliments too. People often thank me for something I’ve done or tell me how a certain blog post has impacted their lives. But it’s hard for me to take it in … Continue reading →

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Are You Going to Wear It?

Posted on June 20, 2014 by Esther Hizsa

It wasn’t my outfit that offended; it was my belief. After the disgruntled person walked away, a friend remained and asked me if I was okay. Neither of us had more than a few minutes to talk. I blurted out, “I think … Continue reading →

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Sweet Freedom

Posted on June 13, 2014 by Esther Hizsa

I preached after a particularly full week and three restless nights. I was tired but felt confident. I had practised my sermon out loud without relying much on my notes and looked forward to doing it like that on Sunday. However, when … Continue reading →

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