Saturday, January 31, 2015

My Advice

If you’ve read my blog and have been encouraged by what you’ve seen, please allow me to do you a favor? If you have a situation that needs advice from a neutral party, please e-mail me at robert3chis@gmail.com. I will answer your issue with options to consider on my blog, Encourage Me, in the current format I use of title /article. What have you got to lose?
Blogger Forever,

Robert Kinker

Permanent Decorations

I have the quirky kind of personality that heads into a controversial conversation instead of running away from it like a normal person would. Many of my relatives (and friends) have tattoos (or body jewlery).
I would like you to know my own personal viewpoint on this topic. Tattoos are fine as long as they can be covered for work purposes. The same goes with piercings (except for earrings for both sexes). Gages (or branding) are among my most unfavorite ways for one to disfigure themself for the rest of their life. (People’s idea of beauty can change over the years.) Do people make assumptions about you based on your appearance?
Stacy London, moderator of the TLC’s Love Lust or Run, makes some thought-provoking statements at the beginning of this show that indirectly apply to our topic (and life in general) . “When it comes to personal style your look says a lot about who you are, but what kind of message are you really sending? Does the world see you as you see yourself?”
The Bible has this to say about the topic of body art.  Leviticus 19:28, Deuteronomy 14:1 – These verses were given to the Jewish people during the time of Moses. These laws no longer apply to us. To summarize, you are not to get tattoos, body piercings, or separate a uni-brow with a razor as a tribute to a dead person. In reverse logic if the person is living (or you want to do it for the fun of it), you are good to go with God.
I Corinthians 3:16, 6:19-20 –These verses also go together (as they say pretty much the same thing). In these verses your body is referred to as sacred temple (owned by God). Honor the Father with your body. He bought your soul. Whoever destroys the body will be judged by the Creator. These verses refer to sexual promiscuity. If you instead translate them to refer to tattoos, piercings, and body jewelry, one would wonder if judgment is certain when body modifications like those above are made. (To wonder this about these scriptures would be a biblical mistranslation, but it never hurts to try on a new twist.)

The Heavenly Father sees the value in you just as you are. Don’t reject Him again. He already knows your deepest, darkest secrets so tell Him all about the real you today. God can work with your schedule whatever it is. He really loves you, and needs to spend time with you.

Thursday, January 29, 2015

All Dressed Up (to Church We Go)

Proper church appearance is something I’ve grown up with my entire from various houses of worship. As I’ve gotten older, it has become evident to me that the look of its church attendees has morphed as needed. The verse references below (please read them) are as familiar to me as my skin. Once again, my hope is to give you a fresh interpretation on them so that you can make an informed decision.
1.   Deuteronomy 22:5 – God does not want men to dress as women, or women to dress as men for any reason. (Women’s pants are not men’s clothing as they are tailored specifically for the shape of a female. Most men wouldn’t wear them.)
2.   I Corinthians 11:14-15 – Men should not have long hair, but is desired for women. In biblical times, this was probably all true. Today, who has the authority to determine what is long hair-wise for men. There are many women in the world today that are very attractive with short hair. (Long hair wouldn’t be right for them.) At church, If you have a problem with someone’s hairstyle ask God to convict them of it if they wrong. Chances are God will convict you of something in your life instead.
3.   I Timothy2:9 – Women entering a church service should be dressed appropriately. Wear whatever you would be comfortable God seeing you in because He is watching.

4.   I Samuel 16:7 – Man looks upon the outward appearance, God looks at the heart. God told this to the prophet Samuel when he was getting ready to make David king of Israel. I would call this verse the “gold standard” proper church attire. In church if your heart attitude is poor, God cares little about your outward appearance. The Heavenly Father desires to have you right with Him always.

A Good Samaritan

It does my heart good to view a stranger helping another stranger at my work. It all happened in the parking lot of my store. A middle-aged woman bundled up for an Ohio winter with a white fur hat (let’s call her Nancy since I never got her name) was on her lunch break from her at-home job. Nancy’s car decided to die on her. She was about to head in the store for something called dry gas from our automotive section. I volunteered to help her find it.
Along comes a fiftyish woman (I’ll call Gladys) with short flaming red hair, and an adorable yapping Yorkshire terrier in a plaid sweater.  Nancy’s savior didn’t look like one. She showed up when she was needed most. Gladys gave Nancy a ride home. According to Nancy, she lived close by. I assume she made it home before her lunch hour concluded (I had to leave), got back to her computer work, and dealt with the car later as it sat in the parking lot of the store.

The Message translation of Psalm 133:1 says, “How wonderful, how beautiful, when brothers and sisters get along!” It benefits everyone when we treat each other nice just out of the goodness of our heart. This is achievable. Give it a try.

Forever Friends

Close friends are not always the easiest to come by. They often come from shared commonalities like (childhood, college, church, work, hobbies, foods, handicaps, and crisis). If you have never listened to Michael W. Smith’s 1983 song, Friends, it clearly summarizes what a forever friend is. Do you have one of those?
Follow through this analogy with me, if you were going to the best friend store to buy the ingredients to create the ideal friend, what would you buy? I’d get two boxes of loyalty, a gallon of liquid courage, a tub of reliability, a package of commonality powder, two tubes of laughter, and finally a large bottle of secret-keeping oil. After I mixed the right proportions of each, I would hope to be pleasantly surprised with the results.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if finding a forever friend was that easy? It is a shame that some people go their entire life without finding what they need the most. A great deal of the time the popular (sometimes beautiful) crowd can make more (surface) friends than they need. You are doing well in life if you have one close friend you can honestly bear your souls to. They are the true sparkling diamonds in your existence.

King Solomon was knowledgeable when he wrote in Proverbs 18:24 and 17:27 of The Message “Friends come and friends go, but a true friend sticks by you like family. You use steel to sharpen steel, and one friend sharpens another.” I would add to the above sayings from wise ruler by saying that a true friend can be closer to you than your own biological relatives. Today, my hope for you is if you have found this that you will cherish it. If this is not so in your life my wish is for it to happen soon.  

Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Love Out of Control

There is not greater example of someone loving beyond measure than God the Father for us. It is precisely summarized in John 3:16 in the Bible. Do you know of someone who always loves you when your personality is at its ugliest?
How does that kind of love feel when it’s showered down on you? Emotions like suspicious, unworthiness, cherished, and content come to mind. Maybe you have no one in your life like this. Could you show unconditional to a person you feel does not deserve it? This is harder than it sounds. Everything in you will be tested to the core of who you are as a person.

Whether you take the above challenge or not, life is much better when you demonstrate love to all those around you than hate, which tends to make a very unhappy, unpleasant person. When love is out of control, the beneficiaries are those all around that person. Go now to show love before its too late (death). 

Downward Slide

When I was a high schooler and looked at other guys around me, I thought my waistline was humungous at size thirty-four pants. As an older adult male, I would gladly trade my size fifty pants for the smaller version I had as a teenager.
I’ve never quite understood why any guy would purposely want their pants to slide down (exposing their colorful underwear). Even when I buy the right size pants (or smaller) several hours into a work day, those pants have discovered a way to slide down my non-existent hips right below my bulging belly. (At times, my pants can even slide to my tiny derriere. (Long shirts are great for covering up a lot of stuff.)
No matter how tight I strap my belt around my waist; this temporary measure lasts for only thirty minutes or less. Anyone watching me for my work shift would quickly notice how many times I yank my pants up in attempts to prevent the “downward slide.”
I’m a big proponent of sweatpants (in the winter) and shorts (in the summer). The elastic in the pants keeps them wear they should stay (not underneath my stomach). They are quite comfortable too.

Nothing makes a person feel better about themself than well-made clothes that fit correctly. Dress for success because you are what you wear. So be the best you can be by dressing the best you can afford. 

Pay Attention

Undercover Boss (CBS, Sunday, 8pm) is must-see TV for my wife and me every week. This show deals with a company president going in disguise to various branches of his corporation to find out the pulse of how things are really going. The show always concludes with an emotional tear-jerking judgment time with the now undisguised boss. Bad employees are disciplined. The good ones are rewarded with things like thousands in cash, cars, homes, vacations, scholarships for employee children, and much more.
How aware are you of the issues of those in your workplace? Are you first to volunteer to help set up the baby shower for Lilly, who is having her first child-a boy? Keller is going into the hospital for gallbladder surgery. Who at work will make sure flowers are sent? Mallory is finally having knee surgery on her left leg. The recuperation will be long. What can you (and her co-workers do to speak the language of Jesus’ love to her?
Read Matthew 25:31-46, and note the similarities between everything that you just read. (The goats and the sheep sound a lot like an episode of Undercover Boss.)Remember, Jesus is served everytime you help those less fortunate than yourself.


Give Me a Sign

By now you should know things are never quite what they seem. So that means this blog post will have absolutely nothing to do with Britney Spear’s mega nit Baby One More Time. One Christmas, a deaf co-worker of my wife’s invited to his church’s annual Christmas musical.
The program was inspiring, beautiful, and performed together in both speaking voice and sign language. It was a rather bizarre feeling to realize for Bobbi and me to realize we were part of the hearing minority. I wasn’t sure if I was OK with this.
If you are currently part of a minority (or have been connected with one in the past), have you ever been hired for a job because you feel an employment quota, and not because of your job qualifications?
It boils down to the following: Regardless of our race, sex, national origin, marriage or religious preferences, we all want to be loved, valued, and accepted for our differing values. My friendship with another human being is enriched by our differences. I become a more tolerant individual for that wonderful blessing of diversity.

If you should need a sign, here it is: “BE OPEN” to that which may stretch you outside your realm of comfort. Just think, your new best friend may be right around the corner if you can consider an unusual alternative.

Triumph and Challenge


Being a parent throws one on a roller coaster of emotions, you are their best friend one moment and their worst enemy the next. Before Allena reached adulthood, I discovered one of the most uncomfortable parts of fatherhood were the parent-teacher conferences that were a constant throughout her school career.

Though there were lots of positive comments about my daughter (along with the necessary constructive teacher observations where improvement was needed), to me these times felt like I was on trial. I wanted to be anywhere, but at her school. (Being an involved parent in your child’s education is not always fun, but is very necessary.)

In Allena’s junior year of school, she chose to attend a nearby technical school for their Restaurant Services program. I had the opportunity to view her in action a “Bring Your Parent to School” Day during her cooking lab.

After watching her flitter around chopping this and that (multitasking), and moving between steaming pots (and serving trays) and a large cold walk-in freezer to prepare lunch for hungry students as she looked quite professional in her school uniform. I could now understand why she was exhausted before bed time, and her feet hurt. My respect for her as ad-working student was no longer in question.

I was never more proud of Allena than to see her graduate from high school, and complete her two year studies at the technical school she attended. Her high school graduation was done in an arena with at least four hundred students. The arena was also used for canine (dog) competitions and equestrian (horse) shows. I was overjoyed when her name was called and the diploma was in her hand. (Bobbi and I did it).

The completion ceremony was at least fifty students, the excitement of her mother and I still stayed high. When your children do well, it is a real shot of adrenaline to you as the parent.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with having pride in your children’s (or other’s) accomplishments. Proverbs 16:18 (from The Message) does give this warning: “First pride, then the crash—the bigger the ego, the harder the fall.” Make sure your own self esteem stays in check, but liberal with your praise of others.

Sunday, January 25, 2015

An Action Plan

Some people get a thrill out of engaging in that which the general public considers dangerous (and unnecessary in their eyes). They are known as “adrenaline junkies, who get a rush from risk-taking endeavors like this.” An example of a recreational sport nobody (except the very brave) would ever wish to perform is skyyacking, which combines the best features of skydiving and kayaking. With this sport, the participant jumps out of a plane being secured in a kayak with a parachute. The person’s arms become or’s that aid in doing aerial stunts. Landing in some nearby body of water a person’s upper body aids in a comfortable landing.
A unique job that most people would never decide to do is a Tight Rope Walker in a circus. Only the daring (and brave) choose to do this without a safety net. There would have to be some kind of extreme satisfaction every time a crossing was safely made. Inconveniences in this job include balancing (and walking) on something so small for such a great distance. That whole “nothing to catch you if you fall” is quite depressing to me. All the audience witnessing your possible demise as you go plummeting to the floor of the Big Top doesn’t seem very appealing to me.
Bungee jumping from a bridge on a giant rubber band is not my way of having fun beyond my wildest imagination. Even if my weight did not exceed zip lining requirements, I can’t see moving that quickly from something (that looks like a clothesline) would increase my desire to be a dare devil. (I would probably wet myself instead.) Parasailing seems like it might be the closest thing to flying like a bird, which I am not. As much as I love roller coasters, it’s probably not best idea because of my heart condition due to sleep apnea.
The more intelligent among you can probably come up with multiple examples of excitement that pushes limits. I think stuff like this lets you know you are fully alive, but it can also become an addiction that needs have a tight control on. Be adventuresome (within limits), and fully enjoy everything life has to offer. If you ask me, you only live once. So make the most of it.



Hide and Seek

Jonah was a prophet that was running from God. Though God wanted him to go to Nineveh, Jonah had other ideas. It took being swallowed (and puked up on the shores of Nineveh) by an enormous fish before the Prophet was ready to submit to the wishes of the Almighty to also be a missionary pastor. The Heavenly Father did not give up on him. (Check out the whole story in the book of Jonah from the Bible.)
A line from the chorus of the popular worship song, You Won’t Relent by Jesus Culture says, “You won’t relent until You, have it all. My heart is Yours.” I have found the above to be true. When God wishes me to speak with someone (in prayer or blessing), He mentally will not let up until I conform to His request.

If you feel God is chasing you, He probably is. Chances are You know what He wants. There is nowhere to hide that He cannot find you. Give up, and submit now. It won’t get any easier or less stressful. Whatever God wants you to do; He will give you the ability to do it. You’ll be a much happier person if you give in to the Almighty. I speak from personal experience.

Those That Have Gone Before

Popular shows like Long Island Medium and Angels Among Us, have assisted people in dealing with the death of a loved one. Is there anyone today that has the ability to talk with those that have the ability to communicate with those who have passed on, or are they all charlatans? You have to be the one to make that decision in your heart and mind.
One of the most familiar mediums in history would be the woman of Endor, who the Bible identifies as a witch. Her story can be found in I Samuel 28. Read it, and see what you think. Those that are familiar with the work of mediums come from two different schools of thought.
Group one has had a direct connection with someone who has spoken to deceased relative of there’s, and found the experience helpful. Group two is usually of the religious community, has never been to a medium, and believes communicating with spirit guides (or angels) opens a door to a demonic realm.
I am uncertain exactly how I feel on this topic as I can understand both points of view. One thing is for certain, I believe that your loved ones that have passed on to the other realm want only the best for you. It is important to them that you are happy and at peace with your life. Celebrate the good in you, and just how important you are to both the living and dead.


Saturday, January 24, 2015

True Blessings

There were so many things to be thankful for when I was undergoing cancer treatment in 2009. They were somehow all related to transportation issues. Church friends and others (from all over) rallied to get me to my blood draws. The city’s small handicap bus got me safely to and from my volunteer activities (even when I was going through chemotherapy). After I was done with the Lymphoma (and in remission), I was ready to drive on my own with my handicapped placard. It allowed me to park up front anywhere to gain easier access to wherever I needed to be.

Is there anyone who went out of there way (in a time of crisis) to make sure came through to the other side safely? When you think of that individual, name the emotions that come to mind.
There could be gratitude (for their assistance), astonishment (why did you help), importance (I must have worth), and care (you made sure I was well).


Have you paid it forward? This means has someone received the same grace from you that was given to you by others? Kindness is all around look for it. You’ll never know if someone can lend a helping hand unless you ask. There are good people out there who wish to make a difference. Ask God to help you locate them. True blessings lie in what we give rather than what we receive.

Crime and Punishment

If someone you knew confided in you that they had committed a crime (punishable by the law), what would you do? You could convince the person to turn themselves into the police. You could make the call for them, and turn the person in yourself. The last option is to ignore you ever heard any of it, and try to go on with life (as normal as it could be.
Some people have had to deal with above scenario in real-life. Probably very few of them ever thought ahead as to how they would respond in the midst of a crisis of this magnitude. It was an emotional calamity I would wish on no one. Some the most important events in our life require an immediate honest gut reaction from us.
How understanding are you of those who have been disaster? Sometimes, they go on for years. Are you truly empathetic to their plight? Do you selfishly hope they will quickly be done with their issues so all will return to normal? What can you do to make those in need experience as normal a life as possible? You are bound to do the correct thing if you mimic the love Jesus had for the needy around Him.



Rejected Assistance

I hope you won’t be upset with me sharing another great life lesson from the world of the part-time Utility Worker (Cart Retriever).My help has been refused many times in other jobs (as well as this position). The incident I’m about to mention was different. It felt a lot like a sucker punch to gut.
A young Asian mother with a baby securely attached to her with a papoose and a fidgety three year old boy (my estimate) in one hand and full cart in the other looked like she was totally stressed out. I knew she could use my assistance in loading her van. (I wanted to give her all help I could.) When I asked, the answer was “no.” I thanked her, and went on my way to continue doing my job. I wondered “why” to her reply. Did I say something wrong? Was her pride an issue? Did she need to demonstrate she was a capable mother?
When have your good intentions been unwanted in serving someone’s obvious need? Think back to your feelings and reaction. Were they positive or negative? Were you hurt, and felt like you were in the wrong? The important thing is the gesture. Whether your desire is fulfilled or not does not change the fact of your generous heart.

You can’t know why that individual rejected your aid. Possibly they have been disappointed by others, and didn’t wish to add you to that very long list. If they are handicapped, maybe they need to prove they can do it on their own. (You can understand valuing independent. Can’t you? ) Chances are you have nothing to do with they’re refusal of your help. Don’t ever give up on doing the right thing (no matter how many times you might be rejected).

The Gamble

Whether you’re an occasional (or addictive) gambler or you hate the game, the happiness we seek in life is often a venture in taking risks.  Can we know for sure what will work out, and what won’t? Sorry, the answer is “No.” Check out the examples below.
You believe that the person you love will make the perfect partner in a marriage. Moving to a new city for that perfect job seems like the correct career move to make.  A mother has her first child. She fills this will completely fulfill her as a woman?
Though nothing is for certain, there are many ways you can become more comfortable with any choice you make. Study the Bible, and pray to God for His will in the situation. Talk to others you trust, and get their opinion. 

Consult the internet or other resources for additional support. With life, don’t make guesses. Do your homework. Make the most knowledgeable decisions possible. You can’t always control what comes at you in life, but you are in charge of how you handle it emotionally (and physically). God will be with you every step of the way. That’s a truthful guarantee. 

The Disagreement

How do you react when someone (relative or friend) that loves you and has your best interest at heart confronts you with a problem you have? A variety of responses may happen: anger and denial, refusal to discuss and silence, or acceptance of the issue. I wish I could tell you the last issue is my choice. My wife occasionally brings up a long going problem that causes anger and denial inside me. By the time all is done and said, the two of us are wounded casualties with the words we have expressed.
Why is it you always hurt the one that means the most to you? These individuals tend to have the best memory of both the shortcomings and successes of your life. The ones closest to you tend to know what button to push that will send you spinning emotionally. Do all subjects (if not a matter of life and death) need to be brought up if war will ensue.
Sometimes the best thing to do if you feel you are quickly reaching the point of no return is to take a “time out” from the other person to calm down and figure out what really needs to be said. When it comes to arguing, sometimes distance can be a needed thing.

The issue can be much more solvable when time has been spent apart. Is the situation worth parting company with? Please think about that. Are you better to have this person in your life with their many imperfections than to not have them at all? 

The Real Story

Are you a person of assumptions? Do you believe that everything you are fed by the media (and the internet) is 100% true? Think again. Do you suppose people are a certain way based on their outward appearance or actions? Do you make judgments on books, movies, or blogs (websites) before you have fully investigated them?
I heard a great quote (with unknown origins) when I was a teenager. I’ve never forgot it. I wish to retell it now to you. Here it goes, “When you assume, you make an ass of u and me.” How inspired.
What miracle would it take for you not to draw a conclusion until you have all the needed evidence? It’s confession time because I am preaching at myself. Very often I make assumptions about a variety of people not really caring how my opinion could affect these people if they only knew. (God is good to never allow them to know my feelings.)

I believe unfair ideas about people are formed due to our own personal insecurities, thinking a whole race (or sex) is a certain way based on ill treatment by one member of that group, or even pain (emotional or physical) can mess up our opinions. The next time you get ready to make an assumption; don’t be the “donkey” part of the above quote. 

Encourage Me




I started my own weblog (or blog) for several reasons. I wanted a place to put what I wrote for others to read. In December 2014, I finally realized what my purpose in life was meant to be. I want to be an agent of positive inspiration (that encourages you in being your best). I also hope to challenge your normal way of thinking to make you come up with a unique point of view that is truly your own.

The dictionary defines encourage as “To inspire, and continue on a chosen course. Impart confidence, embolden, and enhearten.”  The above definition is exactly what I pray I’m doing in your life. When I realized my life purpose, the name of my blog absolutely had to change.

The name Ministry of Light Creations (based on Matthew 5:16) was decided on for any creative endeavors when I was a teenager. In a church environment (where I grew up) every endeavor (like in a traveling singing group) had a ministry name similar to mine.

Creative writing is an easy thing for me. Ideas for this blog come rushing into my head when I least expect them (or want them). Inspiration can come at work, during family time, church, or dream time at night. This gift is both a blessing and a curse. It would be nice to have more control with turning it off.

When I am out somewhere that writing is not a possibility, I have found “The To Do List” feature on my cell phone is the only way I can remember (and clear out) all my writing ideas from my mind. Sometimes, I wish someone else could enjoy my ability for a week, and I could get a small mental break. Yet I am truly thankful to God for what He’s given me.

Not everyone can express what’s going on in their life as well as I can. In no way am I being proud, it’s just a fact in my life today. Another truth on my blog is that I am (as a man) constantly adjusting my efforts, I change the font and design of my blog consistently every time a new post is added.

Let me ask you something (as you knew I would)? What do you do well? Are you a good artist, communicator, musician, seamstress, or something else I would never have thought to name?  Take a few minute to thank God (and your parents if that is applicable. Use your ability to make the world a better place.  If you make encouraging others your primary goal (in life) the rewards (in a variety of ways) will come back to you.

Friday, January 23, 2015

Fatherhood Changes Everything

Any man who believes fatherhood will change nothing in his life is in for a rude awakening when parenthood happens. Besides being your spouse’s administrative assistant, she’ll need these items for the baby- diaper changes, feedings (if bottles used), midnight rocking’s, baby laundry washed, and time with daddy (when the other spouse needs a break).
Fatherhood is a difficult concept for a man to deal with until he is holding his child. The light clicks on, and the awesome responsibility of what he has been entrusted with becomes very real. Though many books have been published on parenting, none will provide you with what specifically works best for your child. As a couple, the two of you will figure that out on the wonderful, life changing journey of parenthood.
Most questions a dad has his spouse has a solution, an opinion about the right answer, or knows where the accurate information can be found. Take a deep breath, Dad. Trust your instincts. Throughout your child’s life, you will have great successes and failures.
Fatherhood will change everything about you as a man. Your child needs you to be your best for them. There are valuable life lessons (like conflict resolution, a good parental partnership, showing male emotions, and respect for females) than only a father can teach his child (and the opposite is also true). 

Becoming a father is a lifetime responsibility. The job of being a dad is optional. It is vital. Your influence can build up or tear down your child’s self esteem. Your offspring will need you throughout their existence.

 If your kids should choose to marry and have children one day, your input and direction will be an invaluable asset. There are kids to adopt, foster, or ones that will become like family (through a variety of circumstances) that need your unique brand of fatherhood. If it is God’s will becoming a dad could happen sooner than you think.

Remembering the Past

The older I get it doesn’t take much to reminisce. In my employment as the “cart man,” I met a senior citizen shuttle driver that worked for a major hotel chain in the central Ohio area. I noticed his crutches were propped up on one of our motorized carts. My offer of assistance and returning the cart to the lobby of the store was accepted. He planned to be out of work for awhile. As we parted company, his statement, “all I want to do is get back to work” mentally returned me to a frightening period of my life.
In May 2009, the dizzy spells I’d been suffering turned out not to be vertigo, but instead a mass on the bottom part of my brain. Though we were unsure what I had yet, I knew I couldn’t keep asking for advance leave. Since I wished to have some money coming in, my wife and I decided I should leave my current employment on medical disability.
My job as a Contract Data Technician had not been how I envisioned retiring career-wise one day. In my heart, I secretly wished God would move me on to something else. (Be careful what you ask for). Months later when it was diagnosed that I had a cancer called Lymphoma, and chemotherapy would follow. I felt like the above man. (I wanted to retire from the government at sixty-five not forty-six.) This wasn’t fair. All I wanted to do was return to work.

Have you been dealt some injustice (by God you assume) health-wise. Your whole world has been turned upside down. You must not give up. Others are watching to see how you will handle this crisis. One day they may face adversity. That day will come when they will recall your courage, which will inspire them to not give in. Do not believe the Enemy’s lie that God has forgotten you. He is very aware of you. God is holding your hand throughout this challenging journey. 

Back to the Future

With me things are never quite what they seem. This article is not about the 1985 blockbuster hit with Michael J. Fox. (It is one of my favorite films though.) Shows like Reincarnated: Past Lives definitely raise the question if current behavior can be explained by a past life.
Though it’s a fascinating possibility, Hebrews 9:27 tells us that we only die once (not multiple times). If I did have a past life what would I want it to be? Though I am perfectly fine with being a man, I would be willing to be a female during her time of the month so I could finally understand my wife and daughter. With all the joy they provide, the insanity follows closely behind. I tend to enjoy the softer, more emotional side of life, which more closely aligns to the opposite sex than my own gender.
Whether you believe in another life before the one you are currently experiencing, it is imperative that you make preparations for the life that follows this one (your afterlife). Check out my post called Salvation by the Book.

 The pictures attached are not of ancestors of mine. They are of my family a while ago. The first one was taken in Branson, MO, in November of 1992. (At that time, we did not know Bobbi was pregnant with Allena.) The next photograph was done in Gatlinburg, TN, in March of 2005. (Allena is eight.)

A Second Chance

On a Wednesday during my cart recovery duties, I assisted an older man in loading his groceries into the trunk of his sport’s utility vehicle (SUV). When I noticed he had two gallons of chocolate milk, I commented on how much I enjoyed this beverage. He proudly stated that it was for his grandchildren, who were spending some time with him.
He declared that as a father he’d been so busy providing for his family that he’d not always been the best dad. He enjoyed being a grandfather so much that this man wished fatherhood could have come second with being a grandparent first.
This gentleman was excelling at being a grandfather. He loved getting what seemed like a second chance to make a difference in the life of his children. Our conversation concluded with me taking this grandfather’s cart, and wishing him to have a good day.

Is there anyone in your life you wish a do over could happen with? No one can change the past. Things can be done differently in the present, which can alter your future. If you need to apologize to someone, don’t wait. The longer you put this off the harder it will get. Your mind will turn this rock-sized issue into a boulder the longer you delay this. It’s long past time to grow up, and stop acting like a child (I Corinthians 13:11). As hard as this is, you can do it.

Imperfections

Is there something about yourself that is totally unacceptable? Does this physical trait, a personality quirk, or a handicap make you stand out from those around you? Be assured you are in good company.
The Apostle Paul had a problem (or a “thorn in the flesh”) That He unsuccessfully pleaded with God three times to remove (2 Corinthians 12:7-8). The Bible does not tell us what this “thorn in the flesh” was, but some scholars guess it might have been an eye problem due to Galatians 6:11.
Others believe the “thorn in the flesh” could have been a person due to the Old Testament passage of Numbers 33:55, which Paul would have known. Either way, you now have the evidence to make up your own mind on this topic.

It’s next to impossible to change some things about yourself. Sometimes, you have to make peace with that which you do not like about yourself, and instead embrace it. Your uniqueness is what makes you memorable to someone. Change what you can (with the aid of today’s modern technology). Believe it or not, but you are your own agent of change. 

My First Grandchild

Anticipating the future really accomplishes nothing. It either causes tremendous worry or nervous anticipation. The only thing one has control over is the here and now. Most the time, when people think of a first grandchild it is a thing of utter joy. My happiness level is not quite there yet at the thought of Allena providing Bobbi and me a possible grandchild for several reasons.
There are multiple ways the conception process can happen. (None of them appeal to me.) Labor and delivery can be rather painful. (I want her to have no discomfort.) If children get repaid for the treatment they give their parents, then I think Allena have a challenging offspring. (There’s concern on my part of her parenting abilities.)
Let me briefly explain my daughter. As much as I love her, most everybody that meets Allena cherishes her, a friendship with her can be an “acquired taste.” It is much like trying out an exotic food several times to see if you want to add it to your diet. Though the adult Allena is highly intelligent, her life decisions are not always made with all the common sense she possesses.
If Allena should choose to have children one day with that special soul mate (should pray for this person too) she marries, like thousands of parents to precede her she’ll figure out what works best for my grandchild. The nice thing about this experience will be sending the child home if it all gets to be too much (or I need a nap).
As hard as it is at times, try to live every moment to its fullest. Tomorrow may never show up. Enjoy the variety of life. Like a good mixed fruit salad, you are never quite sure what you’ll get. So be prepared for everything.

I simply love this picture taken by Woodward Photographic in November of 2011 when Allena was in tenth grade (fifteen years old).

Two of Me

Do you ever wish there was a double helping of you to get everything done (your way)? Twenty four hours doesn’t quite seem like enough time to accomplish at work (or home) that is on your job list.
The above complaint is commonly heard with mothers (both working outside the home and stay at home). Your house does not need to be immaculate and sparkling clean. (There will be plenty of time for that as an empty nester.) Meals do not have to be an elaborate affair, and you will not always be able to be at every school event. (Kids need love and time with you most of all.)
Give your best during an eight hour work day. Realize your limitations at only being one person. You can’t make everyone happy. Make sure your boss is the one individual that is happy with you. Strive for honesty at any cost. At the end of the day, be pleased with a job well done.
Remember, if there were two of you that would also mean double your irritating habits, quirks, as well as your own personal irritations. Would that be more than you could handle? Though it would be extremely convenient to have someone do all the stuff for you that you love to avoid doing. Live in the world of reality. Don’t dream about what will probably never happen.

I am pictured in March of 1995 in my Customer Service Representative position in Columbus, OH. (Photo by David Benzing)

O Tidings of Comfort and Joy

I love tricking people. You may have thought this article has something to do with Christmas. You would be wrong. The above line is from the chorus of God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. (Don’t make assumptions without proof.) Is there someone (or something) that puts a smile on your face and peace in your heart every time you think of it (or see it).
For my daughter Allena that would be her tiny male Chihuahua dog, Rosco. Every time Rosco meets Allena at her car (or trots up to her room) Allena calls out his name in a high pitched voice, opens up her arms, and holds Rosco in a tight affectionate embrace.
Rosco made an immediate connection with Allena when we adopted him in 2009. I think Rosco realized she was the human that needed her most. Over the years, his wisdom in knowing what Allena has needed the most has always been right on point.
Rosco is Allena’s bed buddy. (He is the only male that gets a sleepover in this house.) He’s always been an excellent study partner. When Allena wants a cat, Rosco becomes Madame Foofoo and gets milk.
Rosco continues to adore my daughter though she has placed him a variety of places that make him shake more than he already does. Whatever things in your world fill you with joy and energy hold onto them tightly. Don’t ever let go of them.

This senior picture of Allena (seventeen)was taken by Robb Shirrey Studios in Gahanna, OH on October of 2013. The sentiment expressed is typical of Allena’s relationship with Rosco.

Born to be Wild

When some of you saw that title, you immediately began humming the 1968 classic by Steppen Wolf. Have you ever done something so out of your character that you still can’t believe you did it? Did you do something unusual like sky diving or zip lining? Did you eat something bizarre like octopus or ostrich?
My hair is now salt and pepper gray. It has always been rather course and straight. In the winter of 1983, I was in my early twenties, and a sophomore at Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC. My hair was still very straight and brownish-black. I became the talk of dorm floor when I left one afternoon with straight hair, and came back later that evening with tight little curls all over my head.
I think the attitude all around me was real men didn’t do this thing. I have never excelled at meeting typical male standards. Whatever they are? At my current age, accept me as I am, or leave me alone. What you see is what you get.
Do you excel at what’s expected of you, or do you work to your own beat? How can anyone else be happy with unless you are happy with you? Explore stuff outside the box. Enjoy life within reason. Shock everyone with one crazy thing, but be safe (and safe) about it.

Pictured is me with my perm in my Bexley, OH home in Christmas of 1983.

Wednesday, January 21, 2015

WWJD

“What Would Jesus Do?” is a popular slogan that can be found on coffee mugs, Bibles, wrist bands, bumper stickers, tattoos (not sure, but probably), shirts, and the list of creative ways to market this saying could continue for eternity. This one motto has spawned others in both a serious (and comical) vein.
If WWJD ruled, what would our world look like today? Though the Bible provides many principles to live by, it doesn’t necessarily tell us what would happen if “What Would Jesus Do?” was a reality.
Here’s what I imagine would happen. Hopefully, world leaders would continue talking things out a lot more instead of blowing up lots of stuff, (and in turn murdering people).  Wouldn’t that make for a more peaceful Earth? Those people who are addicts to drugs, alcohol, and pornography might realize only Jesus can solve the problems they’ve tried so hard to avoid.
The attitude of “allow me to bless and encourage you” begins to spread (like a virus) over the entire world. Happiness would always be evident at your job for those who climb the ladder of success over you because it’s the right thing to do. Marriage partners would try to outdo the other one in make the marital union a joyful one

No one is asking you to make world piece happen. You can “pay it forward” by doing that one nice thing today for a complete stranger (as Jesus would). It feels good plus it’s contagious. You want to keep doing it. Give a WWJD lifestyle a try today

To Destinations Unknown

Movies like The Time Machine and the Back to the Future trilogy have fueled our desire to know more about going somewhere else in another dimension. I even wrote my own time traveling adventure in book three of All for One: The Towns of Ohio Complete Trilogy. (The hero of this book, Danny Philman, travels to both the past and the future.)
Would you travel backward or forward in time if you could? Maybe you would go to the past to correct a family (or individual) error? Could you prevent the Titanic from sinking, and save all the lives that were originally lost?
Do you want to go to the very distant future to see how the USA turned out? Maybe you want to see if the computer program you wrote paid off with big money thirty years from now, or is happiness where you are right now in your world?
As far as I know, a time machine has not been invented yet. (That would sure be challenging and lots of fun.) The only thing you have any control over is the present. Make the most of your existence by being connected with the smart choices of others. Decide to be around those that are positive. (They provide good energy.) Remember, to allow others in to your life when you need their assistance the most.


The Difference

It has always amazed me how different I feel (both mentally and physically) after I’ve had a shower and a shave. Before the shower, I look like something that was pulled out of the trash. My attitude resembles that of a crotchety old man. After kissing my wife, I’ve given her “bristle burn” from the two day beard residue on my face. My hair is greasy, and glued to my head. I feel grimy and exhausted all over my body. I feel like George Washington and I could have been brothers, which would make me truly ancient.
After the shower, I feel tingly clean and energetic. My beard stubble has been shaved off. I could pass as a kindly grandfather (or a college professor). My short hair feels light and bouncy (do guys have this). The limp in my left leg (from a day in my hiking boots) is gone. My body is telling me that I’m at least twenty years younger.

What revives you? Is it music, a book, running, other forms of exercise, a special food or drink, a DVD, or person that always lifts you up to a brighter place? Think about that, and realize what that item is. Ultimately, you are the only one who can revitalize yourself from a state of blah to the land of bling. No one (except God) knows tomorrow (James 4:14). Live fully in the moment. Life is transitory (passing quickly) so enjoy every second of it.


Family Repetition

Do you ever find yourself repeating a gesture you remember some relative (alive or deceased) doing? It can be alarming at times to realize just how much our family has an influence on us. For me, I have a whole plethora (surplus) of kin that come to mind with similarities that are evident today.
Janice Zarbaugh – Over the years I’ve watched my mother seamlessly connect to strangers in conversation; effortlessly speak of spiritual matters, teach a Sunday School class, or pray daily with my wife. I owe my mother a debt of gratitude for passing down what others wish came naturally. (Of course, I believe she is also the one that passed her undiagnosed Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD down to her eldest child.)
Stella Kinker – When my paternal grandmother was frustrated over something, (this happened frequently when I viewed her) the hands went on the hips. Guess who does that also?
Robert Eagle – My maternal grandfather was a loveable character that I very rarely remember him getting angry around me. When Grandpa Eagle wished to make a point to me, he’d smile, and point his index finger at me to give his directive. I find myself doing the same thing with our three Chihuahuas when I wish them to do something.
Think about how much you are like those that came before you. Rejoice in the unique person that has made you today. Without them there would be no you. Say, “thank you.”  


In the attached pictures, Robert and Erma Eagle (maternal) are in the formal picture. Clarence and Stella Kinker (paternal) are next to a plant. Grandma Kinker is in her classic pose next to my father’s tombstone.


 

Tuesday, January 20, 2015

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory


Though there have been several movie versions of the above beloved children’s book by Roald Dahl, nothing can compare with the live theatrical version I participated in on April 18 to May 5, 1991 at The Columbus Junior Theater in downtown Columbus, OH. I portrayed two minor (but crucial) roles.
This novel deals with the winners of five golden tickets (Charlie Bucket, Augustus Gloop, Violet Beauregarde, Veruca Salt,  and Mike Teavee), and their visit to Willy Wonka’s world famous chocolate factory and his workers, the Oompa Loompas.
My minor role as Mr. Bucket began the show. Mr. Bucket (along with his entire family were dirt poor. He’d been beaten down by life, and was having difficulty providing for his family. The thrift store suit I wore fit, but was too short.
My second minor role was as one of the factory workers known as Oompa Loompas.  In this theatrical production, we pretended to be various machines, sang, and danced when entertaining comic relief was needed. If you thought Oompa Loompas were short, you’ve not lived until you’ve viewed a 6’2” one in a lime green clown wig, a colorful paint-splattered jump suit (over a long sleeved shirt), and a silver hard hat.
Regardless of the many newspapers that review us, Kim Byrd of Deer Run Elementary said this about Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. “I have to tell you how much we all enjoyed your play. Not only was it an outstanding performance, but it was a great experience for the children.  We know you spent endless hours preparing for the play, and it truly showed! Thank you again for allowing us to be your audience on “Opening Night”!
As twenty seven year old, I’ll never forget the experience of working together with a group of people to produce something (over and over again) that made an audience happy for a brief period of time. Isn’t life all about encouraging others (along the way) as you take your own journey?

The attached picture collage has me sitting in a chair as Mr. Bucket. On the picture below, the Oompa Loompas are in the middle of a song/dance routine. I am the tall Oompa Loompa up front with the lime green hair.

The World’s Most Unusual University


Due to the generosity of my late paternal grandparents, inheritance money was provided for me to attend college. I chose an out-of-state Christian liberal arts university with the above slogan from 1982-1986. Bob Jones University taught me so many important life lessons that I wish to thank them for right now.
Nothing teaches a person how to deal with the variety of life better than spending a university career with three different males (with their own unique habits) each year in a small room (with four bunk beds, a sink, a study area, and limited closet space). You have no option, but to learn how to get along. Over those years, I had some great guys that were patient with the unique I tend to be to this day. (I do remember a lot of home sickness throughout my four years at BJU.)
BJU also opened my eyes to the cultural side of life, which to this point I had no idea about what that even was. I was exposed to operas (both in English and foreign languages), Shakespeare plays, and recitals (instrumental, vocal, and drama).
My largest experience with this was my acting in two minor roles in Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing during my sophomore year of college (during Thanksgiving 1984)  as both a soldier and a wedding party member. I remember the long rehearsals, thick stage make-up, and the heavy, elaborate costumes. It was wonderful immersing myself so completely in another time period.
As an Elementary Education major (Bachelor of Science degree), my senior year (1986) was partially dedicated to student teaching at Summit Drive Elementary in Greenville, SC. Before I left Summit for graduation, I was given a booklet with photos and letters from my students (which I still treasure today) The poem on the inside cover beautifully summarizes my time in this place of learning.
This is a poem about Mr. Kinker.
He wasn’t mean & he wasn’t a stinker.
He came to us from Bob Jones School
And made us remember the Golden Rule.
When kids were naughty, he’d say “Run laps!”
After four times around we wanted to take naps.
In all our classes he’d get us thinkin’
-He even came one day as Abraham Lincoln!
Sometimes we were so rowdy he’d start to scream;
Luckily he got help from Miss Beam.
He liked everyone and didn’t have a pet,
And we liked it when Miss Beam said, “We’ll make a southerner of you yet!”
So here’s to Mr. Kinker of Ohio
-All of us say “We hate to see you go!”
Other memories I have from BJU are the Dating Parlor in the Student Center (I seldom used my idea of a couch emporium), having to wear a tie for a casual jaunt off campus, daily chapel in the Founder’s Memorial Amphitorium, ladies having to wear hats to Sunday morning chapel, and meeting a companion Elementary Education major that I still keep in contact with today.
In the back of my senior year book my involvement at BJU is written. Here it is: Sigma Alpha Chi (society involvement required; no fraternities), choir (Church, Vesper, Oratorio), and Classic Players (Much Ado About Nothing). I can’t speak for everyone, but if you’ve never had a familiarity with college (whether in-state or out-of-state), it’s not something to be missed because learning has no age limits.
Note the collage of college pictures below. The 1986 graduation pictures are taken with me and my mother and sister Kim. The yearbook photo is from my sophomore year. My student teaching class is below. (I am to the left.)






Be Nice


I wish I could tell you that I have always been the model father. If you told my adult daughter, Allena, that her father is perfect, she would probably laugh in your face. Though children are to obey their parents (no age limit given), Ephesians 6:4 commands fathers not to frustrate their children. Fathers, are you a regular violator of this edict? Dads, do you find it entertaining to infuriate your kids?

With the care my grandmother is receiving from her children (my uncle and mother), it has made me all the more aware that one day my daughter will be in charge of my healthcare.

How do I want to be treated when that decision needs to be made? You’ve heard nursing home horror stories.  Do I want to be placed in a facility like that because it’s finally payback time? It’s finally becoming clear to me that what goes around comes around whether that’s good or bad.

Monday, January 19, 2015

Back Again

If you’ve never seen the ABC drama Resurrection, it raises an interesting question.  If your loved ones could return to you (not as Zombies) would you want them to come back to this world exactly as they left on their death date? This means with exactly the same health conditions.
Some people would take back their missing loved ones in any form they would come back in. Though nothing would make me happier than to wrap my arms around the multitude of loved ones that are in Heaven, I would leave them where they are. Why?

Heaven is a place of beauty and peace with gold and jewels adorning the city. Our loving Father lights this land with His presence.  I want the best for those I love. Why would I wish to bring them back to a sickly, decaying, sinful Earth? Wouldn’t that be rather selfish of me? Do not mourn for those who are in Paradise. Maybe they should feel sorry for you. Think about this at your next viewing or funeral.

Nothing to Do


Have you ever had a day where you had absolutely no responsibilities (or duties) to be concerned about? How did that feel? What did you do? At times like this many people catch up on sleep, laundry, bills, watch countless hours of pre-recorded shows from TV (maybe some premium movie channel), or snack on all their guilty junk food vices (like chips, pop, ice cream, donuts). Lunch with a good friend is also a popular choice for times like this. Days of freedom like this feel similar to chewing peppermint (or spearmint) gum. (Once again, your mouth feels refreshed and your body is awake and alive.)
If you have kept up with the incessant bantering of my blogs, chances are you already know what it might be. Since I was a little boy, I’ve had a love affair with both writing and dogs. Writing has always made me feel loved and important.
 I’ve always known that I’ve been given the ability to clearly, accurately, (and sometimes with humor) get my point across to one or hundreds of individuals. I always take special pride on complements about my writing abilities (more than I do on my singing aptitudes). Something about it says, “What you write is important.”
 Writing for my church congregation brings me close to the Almighty. (To me, this is the “back door” approach to ministry leadership.) Church parishioners read my words, and consider what my language is implying. In manner of speaking isn’t this what a preacher does through his message?
Maybe you have wondered exactly why the writing process energizes me so. Looking at a blank page on Microsoft Word (I later transfer my document onto my blog); I see endless possibilities with what I can create (reconfigure and edit if needed). My only limitation is my imagination. Writing makes me feel confident. Something about this whole wonderful process seems real, natural, and accepting of who I am deep down inside. This is where I shine the brightest.
Being with my dogs is a treat in itself. Their laid-back personalities have blended well with mine. In size, I call them small medium, and large (Rosco, Chico, and Lola).  Lola is the crazy one with her incessant barking and excited pacing.
Rosco is the submissive one except when he is defending someone’s boundaries with his remaining five teeth. Chico is the maternal one of the group (with the ear licking) and vicious growling when he is not being obeyed completely. I’ve learned to love these three characters with all my heart.

So how soon will you be planning a day off? What about attending an enrichment seminar, a trip to a day spa, or being home alone for several hours. As with writing, the possibilities are limitless but the mental break that comes from time off is priceless.

Sunday, January 18, 2015

The Tenth

If you are from a church environment, you will be familiar with the aspect of tithing (ten percent of one’s gross or net income) The monies you give to the church are used for things like endorsing all its programs, salary for the staff, paying off the building mortgage, insurance, building maintenance, and the list goes on. What does the Bible really say about tithing? Let’s delve into what the scriptures on this topic say.
Unlike my blog article, The Struggle, I will not be printing out the verses I’ll be citing. I want you to look them up in the Bible yourself. Along with my comments on tithing, please come up with what you believe (not what a pastor said should be your beliefs). Let’s begin the journey.
Deuteronomy 14:22 – Even though a tenth is mentioned in this verse it seems more like a savings plan than a way to give to God. This verse is agricultural based with the term “fields produce.” Is it wrong for preachers today to take a farming verse and turn it in to a reason to tithe? Can that switch be made accurately? The decision is up to you.
Malachi 3:10-11Though this verse discusses God’s blessings after testing Him in the area of tithing, like before it is agricultural in nature with words like “storehouse, food, and floodgates.”  (The tenth is not mentioned in these verses.) Can the transition from farming to our modern world of electronic tithing be made? You are the judge and jury.
2 Corinthians 9:7 – In this verse, God wants you to decide how much you wish to give financially (or tithe). Our Heavenly Father does not want you to give because you are being forced to. He wants it done with an attitude of cheerfulness, (or forget it).

Hopefully, this article has provided clarity and answered lingering questions for you on the topic of tithing. Whatever you decide, the Heavenly Father wants to use you and your money (depending on your decision) in an awesome way.

A Debt of Gratitude

Christian artists like Ray Boltz had some big hits during the zenith of his career. One of his songs, Thank You, was performed by (minor) religious soloist at churches, Christian high school commencements, and even funerals all over the United States. Take just a second to read the very short chorus of this song to see if it applies to you.
Thank You for giving to the Lord I am a life that was changed
Thank You for giving to the Lord I am so glad you gave
Is there anyone that has invested in your life that completely changed the direction of your existence today? Have you thanked them recently? If they have passed away, you can still relay the message, or even ask God to relay memo to your loved one.
My mother influenced me as a child, and still makes her mark in my life as an adult. Though my father has been gone for a long time, he left a legacy of both the good and the bad.  All of this has made me the joy (and irritation) that my family cherishes about me. So, you have a request to fulfill for me. Time is short. Please don’t delay in making your thankfulness known to those who mean the world to you.


Why Church?

If you’ve read this blog, you might wonder why I attend church with my issues with praise music (read Misunderstood, but Hopeful) and preaching (read Night, Night). That’s pretty much the entire service excluding the offering (which I have no issues with).
I attend church somewhat for the social aspect. I think being around a small community of believers makes me a better human being. I believe it pleases God when I make a regular habit of going to church. It shows Him that He is important to me. Of course, I can’t always guarantee my attitude will stay in godly manner. I never know what’s going to set my irrational temper off.
When the service gets to be too much for me (spiritually, emotionally, or physically), I do the following: Stay in my seat, fight the boredom (yawning means my concentration is gone) and force myself to stay for the church service. If I can interact with another person during the prayer time (that corresponds with the music) my thought pattern is changed, and the service may be salvaged.
The other option is to walk out. The very little I got from the sermon is gone as I talk with the YMCA staff outside the room we meet in. I will say church gives me many writing ideas for this blog. I hope I have not soured you on church. This is where my longtime record of church attendance has brought me to now. There are times when I am so inspired (or convicted) in my heart by the pastor with a needed reminder it was essential for me to hear. There are also times I am struggling to stay awake that I get very little from what’s spoken by the minister. Unfortunately, there are those times when the service can’t conclude fast enough for me. My cell phone is counting down the minutes until the congregation is dismissed.


Who’s Mistakes?

Are you the type of person who needs to make your own mistakes, or can learn from errors of others? No one is perfect (or close to it) no matter what anyone may think. (Always striving for perfection can be exhausting and unrealistic.) The only sinless individual is no longer residing on the planet Earth. (That would be Jesus Christ.)
Some mistakes can be painful and unnecessary. Even with the best intentions things are not always done to the complete satisfaction of the requestor. (Always make sure directions are precise and clear that need to be carried out.)

People from all over the world have made billions of mistakes. Some of those will be the same ones you will make. Some of those could be errors in things like money or relationships. Why go through the pain of a blunder if you can avoid it by learning from someone else’s slip-up. Whether you read about a flaw in a book, hear it in person, listen to it on an iPod, or hear about it in a sermon,  you need to save yourself (and your support system) the unpleasant pain of whatever it is. Get that through your tough noggin as soon as possible. How wise you are is determined about your quick recovery time during your moments of imperfection.

Everything

  “Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you.” (Saint Augustine) It shouldn’t be surprising th...