I learned years ago to write simple declarative sentences. Now I am taking the next step: simple declarative thoughts. Few things are as simple as they can be stated. Reality is more like the formula Jesus used: “You have heard it said, but I say to you.” These “but” clauses aren’t equivocations. They describe the nature of things. Sometimes, however, you just need to say the simple word.

(Tom Ehrich is a writer, church consultant and Episcopal priest based in New York. He is the author of “Just Wondering, Jesus,” and the founder of the Church Wellness Project, http://www.churchwellness.com. His Web site is http://www.morningwalkmedia.com.)