Liisa Eyerly

I found no records of general concern to humanize the laws governing slavery. For the most part, the ruling class agreed slaves had no personal rights apart from those granted by their masters. This view is not surprising. Rights were minimal to non-existent for most women, children, and non-Roman citizens who weren't slaves.

I can't pinpoint the exact moment in my life when inspiration struck, and I knew I had to drop everything and write. Many writers say they knew they wanted to be an author the first time they picked up a pencil. My "ah-ha" moment was more of a meandering "ah-ha" journey, beginning in grade school when history grabbed me and never let go.

When we attempt to relate to another culture, especially one existing over 2500 years ago, confusion, bewilderment, and in the case of slavery, rage is bound to happen. The culture of slavery is an issue authors encounter when writing about the Roman empire, and it is a treacherous one to address.

In my murder #mystery novel “Obedient unto Death,” I needed to describe a formal Roman dinner. I have watched movies portraying Roman dinner parties, but watching and writing about them are two entirely different skill sets. What did the ancient Romans living around the Mediterranean eat and drink at dinner parties?

I have lost count of the times I have been astounded and amazed by God’s providence. I keep saying I should record all the miracles that have transpired, the “coincidences,” the “I can’t believe it” moments. I am overwhelmed by the number, though some are more memorable than others.

At this juncture of life, Psalm 46:10 is the verse I find myself turning to again and again for reassurance, advice, and focus. “Be still, and know that I am God...” (KJV) This advice was front and center this week, as I took a day to step back from life’s routine of chores, responsibilities, obligations and all the busyness that structures daily existence.

I am sad today. A young hummingbird flew into our house yesterday, and the situation did not end well. We have cathedral ceilings, and it flew straight up to the 16-foot-high peak and stayed there.