Category Archives: Personal

For the past few Mondays, you haven’t heard from me. I had surgery to repair an injury and wanted to update you – many of whom have followed my columns for years – and let you know I still have a passion for the pen. My sincere thanks to all who sent prayers, texts and other forms of encouragement! I’m on track for a full recovery, and hope to return to writing soon.

But bigger than me, I wish address last night’s tragic shooting that left at least 58 dead and over 515 wounded at a country music concert in Las Vegas. A madman-turned-sniper smuggled hundreds of rounds of ammunition, 19 rifles, and two tripods into his room in the Mandalay Bay hotel. Around 10:08 p.m., the sound of gunfire cut through the evening air. Continue reading →

It was a Sunday afternoon last summer. After three miles, I was tired and hot from running but happy because I had finally reached the river. As I glanced upwards, I spotted an eagle’s majestic wingspan far above. I slowed down and walked by the shore. Before long, five eagles were soaring overhead–freely weaving between the trees and open air as if they were playing a game. I stood watching them for a long time.

Eagles are awesome creatures. They exude power, grace and freedom. Our founders made the Bald Eagle America’s national bird, partly to show that America’s democratic republic mirrors the glory Rome exuded before its fall. Just as Roman architects used the eagle to represent independence and strength (see the photo below), so too did our Constitution’s architects. Continue reading →

By Katie Kieffer

This Memorial Day weekend, I want to honor the lives of two men who served our country and made a profound difference in my life: My grandfathers, Grandpa Rick and Papa Chuck. These two men touched me and countless others with their love, advice and proud patriotism. Continue reading →