Many of our friends and family are considering what it means to downsize, or as some call it, "right-sizing." The whole process unearths deep feelings, longings, regrets, memories, and usually, a few arguments. It isn't easy reducing the amounts of our material goods. And sometimes, it is just plain hard to let go. Some time ago [...]
It was an ordinary day. He was working; just doing his job. Consistent. Faithful. Acquiescent. He knew he could pay the bills, keep the kids fed and clothed, and be assured his wife (and her father) were satisfied. It was a good life, not what he expected, but good. And it was simple. Even though [...]
In our book, Third Calling: What are you doing the rest of your life?, we propose long life is a gift from God - to be stewarded with wisdom and imagination. We discussed this concept with one of our always-very-spiritual friends. Here's what she said: I don’t really think long life is all you’ve cracked it [...]
Earlier this month we paused to celebrate Labor Day in the United States. The holiday was established in the 19thcentury to honor American workers and recognize the problem of long working hours with no time off. Presently, while there are no specific prescribed rituals or traditions around Labor Day, Americans typically take a break to [...]
NEW! My Life After Work Journal Retiring from a job or career is a significant milestone. It is filled with delight, new-found freedom, and time to do things you've waited to do. It is also a time to reflect on what's important in life. This journal provides thought-provoking questions, opportunities to reflect, write, laugh, dream, [...]
Beginning Thursday, June 22, 2019, Seattle radio station KCIS will broadcast Third Calling: What are you doing the rest of your life? This five-minute, 10-show series features co-authors Richard and Leona Bergstrom and is hosted by Mark Holland, KCIS Program Director. Tune in to KCIS AM630 (Seattle area) at 7:55 am every Thursday, or 1:45 [...]
written by Richard Bergstrom, D.Min. President, ChurchHealth Last week the world’s eyes were riveted on the Notre Dame Cathedral as flames engulfed the historic building. Thousands of onlookers gathered along the banks of the Seine River, gasping and crying in horror when the upper part of the 300-foot spire of this cultural and religious icon [...]
Re-Ignite Directors, Richard and Leona Bergstrom, recently had the opportunity to participate in a unique three-day discussion called the Retirement Reformation Roundtable. Led by founder, Bruce Bruinsma, 15 ministry leaders from around the country addressed many issues and opportunities facing Christian retirees today. You'll hear more in the weeks to come as we unveil new initiatives [...]
I have always been drawn to old people. My mom used to say that I didn’t bring home stray dogs, I brought home stray old ladies. It was true. I was always befriending sweet elders on the street, in the park or at the grocery store. Periodically, I brought one home with me. And, my [...]
Today is International Women’s Day. Every year since 1911, March 8 has been set aside to specifically honor the courage of women in all parts of the world. I was deeply moved this past week while watching the International Women of Courage Awards ceremony. Annually, the U.S. State Department “recognizes women around the globe who [...]
