The “Footprints in the Sand” (or just “Footprints”) poem is one of the most famous allegorical Christian stories of the last century. While the original authorship and influences of the poem are disputed, its popularity is unrivaled. It has been mentioned by everyone from Ronald Reagan to Kanye West to Ann Landers. To help you…
The Learning Log
Leaf by Niggle by J.R.R. Tolkien: Summary and Discussion Questions
J.R.R. Tolkien is best known for his epic fantasy books The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Tolkien labored over these works for many years never satisfied with their imperfections. During the decade long hiatus between The Hobbit and the publication of The Lord of the Rings, Tolkien wrote a short, semi-autobiographical story about…
George Washington’s Childhood Copywork: 110 Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior
George Washington was the first President of the United States and one of the most respected men in the world. As Henry Lee said during a eulogy for the President: “First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen.” Among the many things that influenced George Washington’s formation as a…
St. Francis and the Sheep Story
I was reading through some of the Eucharistic miracles on a website created by Bl. Carlo Acutis and came across a fascinating story about St. Francis that I had not heard before. We all know that St. Francis of Assisi is the patron saint of animals. He is commonly shown with birds and other animals…
Searching for God in the Wrong Place: Story and Reflection Questions
Here is a parable I really enjoyed in Fr. Anthony de Mello’s The Song of the Bird: A neighbor found a man on hands and knees. “What are you searching for?” “My key.” Both men got on their knees to search. After a while the neighbor says, “Where did you lose it?” “At home.” “Good…
