In a land far away, two merchants are discussing the waning economy.
NIKNAG: “I have not sold a single item of value today.”
BOBROB: “Nor have I. People come. They look. They leave with the contents of their pockets intact.”
NIKNAG: “Perhaps we have chosen our businesses unwisely.”
BOBROB: “I will pray long and hard tonight, my friend. For [...]

“I really need a new car,” Doris told her husband. “My Suburban is on its last legs.”
Marvin owned Supreme Electrical Contractors and although he made a decent living, the profits never seemed to be enough to please his wife. Her Suburban really wasn’t that old, she just wanted something newer.
“I’ve been thinking,” she said, “about [...]

“I’m excited about going to Career Night at my school tonight,” said Pete. “I really need to find out what I want to do with myself after graduation.”
“It’s important for you to remember that whatever you decide to do,” his mother said, “do it with diligence and for the glory of God.”
“I realize that,” he [...]

Milton Nuckus was a generous man and often granted appointments with people asking for donations for worthy causes.
As his secretary ushered in Penelope Martin, he lifted his gaze from his computer screen for only a brief moment.
“Thank you for seeing me, Mr. Nuckus,” Penny said.
He rose and beckoned her to sit.
“I won’t take up much [...]

“Isn’t it terrible what happened to all the victims in Japan?” Lisa asked her husband at breakfast.
“Horrible.”
“Not just the dead and the injured but for all the people who were displaced,” she said, “without anywhere to live.”
“Yes,” Jake said, engrossed in reading the sports section.
“Are you listening?” Lisa asked.
“Yes, I am. Bryant only scored 17 [...]