DOP Issue 37: Play

To play is to “engage in activity for enjoyment and recreation rather than a serious or practical purpose.” Most of us have amazing memories of wild, imaginative, creative play as kids. However, as we age into adulthood, something seems to shift. We begin to reserve our energy for things that feel productive or practical. We get too busy to play - because it feels pointless and even like a poor use of time. What is the truth of the matter? If play is so important for children, maybe it is for grownups too! This issue celebrates the value of play and invites us to intentionally make time to delight in God’s good gifts.

Content Includes:

• God of Delight: Reflections on Play, by Katelyn Cover

• Community Play, featuring Heather Lehman, Tabitha Beachy, Mari Jean Royal, Janessa Miller, and Amber Landis

• The Bright Side of Boredom, by Trista Beachy

• More Than Doodles, by Anita Yoder

• The Art of Caking, by Featured Maker Madison Hostetler

• The Gift of Travel with Children, by Rachel Zimmerman

• Welcoming with Wisdom: Relating to our Afghan Neighbors, by Hannah Martin

• Permission to Play: the Value of Recreation in Adulthood, by Abigail Wingard