The consensus of scholars is that Donald Trump can’t yet be labeled a fascist, despite his undisputed megalomania, buffoonery, and willingness to do anything to win. He has no concern for the common good, only for people and policies that enshrine his name and further fill his pockets. His flirtation with the U.S. becoming “a white Christian nation” is self-serving.

The hospital room was dark. Visiting hours after my back surgery were over, and Ray was by then home. I realized then that I was soaking wet in the ice water that melted from the pack they had put under my back. The sheets, blanket, pillowcase, and my hospital gown were drenched, and I was inconsolably miserable.

“And priests in black gowns were walking their rounds, and binding with briars my joys and desires.” William Blake – “Garden of Love”

At a recent 50th anniversary celebration of the first conference held on Homosexuality and Christianity, I was glad for the interest and appreciation of younger people for stories from my past, and that of Sister Jeannine Gramick.

Ray cried when he read my birthday card. It was the last sentence, “I feel safe and secure with you, my love, for which I’m eternally grateful.”

Dogs, as we know, learn language from their owners. Our 1-year-old “puppy,” Sebastian, is trying hard to understand what’s being said so that he might respond accordingly. In our household, that can sometimes be a challenge. Ray and I often don’t understand what’s being said by the other.