GCR Women

New.  A simple word that has so many implications.  Fresh, not seen before, pure, clean, unspoiled, not used up, full of hope and anticipation of the possibilities. I'm always looking for a new diet.  Last week, a friend of mine got a new knee.  Researchers work diligently for a new cure.  People will do almost anything to find ways to replace old habits with new ones.  New. But what kind of "new" thing do I really want?  I want something new that stays new - that never wears out, that always gives me that feeling of newness.  More importantly, why do I want "new"?  Could it be because of what "old" says to me and about me - how it makes me feel "old"? The writer of Ecclesiastes said there's nothing new under the sun and in many ways, he was correct.  But every new day that dawns brings with it a sense of starting over.  I can put yesterday with its brokenness, its stains, its mistakes behind me and start over new today. ...

One hundred fifty years ago today, the battle of Gettysburg began and lasted for three days, resulting in some 53,000 casualties.  Right or wrong, men from the North and the South sacrificed their lives for a way of life they believed in. In another time and place, after a brilliant concert, a woman approached the great pianist Van Cliburn and congratulated him on a marvelous performance.  She said, "I'd give my life to play the piano like that."  He simply replied, "I did." What are you willing to give your life for?  Is there a cause or a discipline that you've spent your life to further?  Is it patriotism or love of country?  Is it love of music or art that drives you?  Perhaps something you believe in so strongly that you spend your time and money advancing?  When's the last time you stopped and took a look at what you're doing with your life and asked yourself, "Is it worth it?"  If the answer comes back, "No" or "Ma...