Dorothy was a devout and faithful Methodist, but her advice spanned all denominations and, at least in one case, landed on someone of the Catholic persuasion. Namely, me. And, I found, it also worked for me. Many times over the years I’ve been stumped for a topic when the deadline for a column loomed ominously. “Okay, God, – You always helped Dorothy out – now please help me.” And, He always did.
So here I am staring at a blank computer screen, searching for a topic for this week’s Inkspots. And, once again, I haven’t a clue what to write about, so I’m handing the keyboard over to God.
God: So you need help coming up with something to write about? Again?
Me: Yeah, well God, y’know my life isn’t exactly full of adventures and I’m afraid whatever readers I have are probably tired of hearing about my exceptionally wonderful dog, Seamus, and my exceptionally brilliant children and grandchildren.
God: Yeah, you do tend to go on a bit about them.
Me: Well, You gave them to me, so You shouldn’t mind. And I’m not really asking for your opinion, just some inspiration for a column.
God: Well, I like to give my opinion, anyway. As for inspiration, how about writing about your faith?
Me: Seriously? You do know that Inkspots isn’t a religious column, right? Well, of course you do, you know everything.
God: So?
Me: Um, God, I appreciate your suggestion, but could you possibly come up with something else? Please?
God: No, I don’t think so. Besides, you’ve already written enough here to fill a column. So, you see, your prayer has been answered.
Me: Um, okay. Thanks, God. And Dorothy. Caveat: I’ll also include a picture of my exceptionally wonderful dog, Seamus, in case someone out there would prefer a column about him instead of religious musings. Doesn’t hurt to cover all bases, right? And, besides, I’ve always wanted to use “caveat” in a column, so now I have. Yay.