Paranoid

Are you nervous being around people of different faiths? What if they are standing at your door wanting to tell you about their beliefs? How does that make you feel? Many times when a person is apprehensive about someone else making their faith known to them, it boils down to this.

They are fearful of being converted because they have no idea as to what they believe. This is unacceptable as most churches have brochures covering the tenets of faith of that particular faith. I have been in a Jehovah Witness’s Bible study.

Since I am certain of my faith, I have no problem letting the people who lead it where my viewpoint differs. If I no longer wish to participate in their Bible study, I have no problem making that also known. Could you do this?

 It’s pure laziness to not make the effort to get a beliefs brochure at your church, and read it. If you spend time watching TV or using the Internet, one can spend fifteen minutes to discover the beliefs of their faith.

When I was younger, I was lead to believe it was acceptable to do whatever needs to be done to get rid of the religious fanatics (as some would see it) that are knocking at your door. With age, comes maturity. I have visited with both the Mormons and Jehovah Witnesses.

I do my best to show them the respect I would want if I were on the other side of the door. Though I do not believe everything I hear. I can find commonalities with what I think in reference to other faiths. To be honest, I admire the zeal and desire to help others that both the Mormons and Jehovah Witnesses display.

My first experience with the Mormon faith occurred several summers ago with two male missionaries (called brothers) that came to my door to discuss their faith. The conversation ended with a desire to know if they could help with anything. I decided to put that to the test. I looked over at my weeded-infested garden, and told them I needed some weeds pulled. The following Saturday they came, and did as was promised.

My wife and I met two Mormon sisters that came to our house several times. We decided to show the love of God to them by lending out two bicycles to the sisters so they could get around in Columbus.

One Sunday evening while my wife was working her part-time cashier job at the same place I work at, the two newest sisters came to visit our home. They had been told we were a nice family by the previous sisters.

Both ladies lived in Utah. To do the year and a half mission’s trip they were on, their full-time jobs were left. During the week, they evangelized from 10am to 9pm. Each sister funded their own mission’s trip. For both of these young ladies, viewing of TV and the internet were avoided all together. I look forward to as wonderful a relationship as I had with the previous sisters.

It may sound bizarre, but getting to know the belief system of another faith makes your stronger. Take this bit of advice. When someone of another faith says something you disagree with, close your mouth, open your mind, and silently respect that person’s right to believe differently than you do. (It’s not worth an argument, is it?) So enjoy God’s variety in people and their faith.

The Meaning

Often time’s people use popular phrases without having a clue of the meaning, or what one is actually speaking. The clichés below are very familiar to most people. Do you know what they are really all about, or are you just guessing. The information provided below is adapted from James Rogers’s The Dictionary of Clichés.

If his grandmother knew of his behavior, she’d “turn over in her grave.” This meaning has to do with a shocking event that would go against the morals of someone dead. It came from James Payn’s 1864 book Lost Sir Mossingberd. “This holiday-making and mixture of high and low here, are themselves enough to make Sir Mossingberd turn in his grave.” 

That little girl of his has “ants in his pants.” This cliché has to do with excessive eagerness or restlessness. The former army general (Hugh S. Johnson) who headed the National Recover Administration from 1933-34 may be attributed with this popular phrase. “Full of beans” and “full of red ants” are synonymous in meaning.

It’s “raining cats and dogs” outside. Excessive rain brings about this phrase. In 1783, Jonathan Swift mentioned the phrase in his work, Polite Conversation. “I know Sir John will go, though he was sure it would rain cats and dogs; but pray stay, Sir John.”

I ‘m “between a rock and hard spot” with this decision I need to make. All options are difficult no matter which way one turns. The 1921 Dialect Notes says, “to be bankrupt…Now it is common everywhere, and it means facing any hard choice, including bankruptcy.”

So the next time you utter something make sure you know what you are saying and why. It is a good thing to be informed with knowledge. It gives you the power you want and need for your life today.

Speed Bumps

In the Hallmark TV drama, Good Witch, Cassie (played by Catherine Bell) gives her youngest daughter, Grace, this bit of sage advice. “A mistake is like a bump in the road. One bump is not so bad, but if we keep making mistakes we change the shape of the road forever.” This quote is a lot to think about, but let’s do just that.

A blunder is a learning tool to prevent us from doing the same slip-up again. When an error is made it should cause us to slow down our speed, and analyze all the correct alternatives we have to choose from.

If you are afraid of not achieving perfection within yourself, you could be disappointed.  Go easy on yourself we are all human. Sometimes we just don’t get it right. The important thing is to become a better individual from what perceive as your mistakes.

Life is challenges sandwiched between good times. So look at your challenges as opportunities to become the human being you wished to be. It is achievable. We all cheering for life’s best for you.

The Egg Hunt

If you’ve ever helped prepare the candy for a community Easter egg hunt, you know that can be a daunting assembling task. The first step involves finding two plastic egg halves that will connect together. Before snapping the colorful egg pieces together, a piece of candy is put in the middle. If you have a lot of Easter eggs to make up, a group of volunteers can make this process faster and more enjoyable.

I assume the egg hunt our church did (in connection with the YMCA) was a smashing success. Lots of happy kids (in a variety of ages) joyfully grabbed lots of candy at frenzied pace. Viewing this process is usually rather entertaining for the parents.

A group effort is always more successful when everyone in that crowd is totally committed. The burden is lightened, and a side effect is that friendships are developed. So don’t ever shy away from operating together as a well oiled machine. The sense of satisfaction is enormous. Give it a chance. There is nothing to be loss, and a great deal to gain.

Party Time

Sometimes a bad day can salvaged by a time of celebration (see What Would You Do?). On March 28, 2015, my brother-in-law (Charlie) celebrated his 50^th birthday at the Leaping Lizard Lounge. Though the party space was small and the music was a bit too loud, the finger food. This was an adult-only party.

Though the soft drinks were free at this get-together, the alcohol was on a “cash bar” basis. The folded poster board with pictures of Charlie through the years on it was an entertaining touch.

The company with family and friends was at its best too. I reunited with two women I knew (supposedly) knew when I was growing up in Bexley, OH. One of the ladies told me my mother used to pick her up every Sunday to go with us to church at Fellowship Baptist.

A group of my sister’s co-workers knew all about me, and thought my sister was a “saint.” Kim had even taught them to all call me by her endearing name for me that I despise (because my daughter also uses it too). It was a surprise to hear a group of woman I had just met say Roberto” together in unison.  

Other conversations included me revisiting the aspect occupational therapy from the effects of my 2009 brain surgery. (Not a joyful topic for me.) I had told some friend’s present a while ago that I was diabetic.

I got the “evil eye” when I brought over a big slab of birthday cake to eat. Because of the guilt I stopped short of consuming the whole thing. There were lots of updates on the family lives of the adults present. I made sure all that were interested knew about this blog.

Have you ever noticed how your attitude changes drastically when something positive happens? Parties usually help one to realize (in a entertaining manner) that we are all connected together as human beings.

You really can’t do life all by yourself. Laughter is abundant at events like this. Laughter makes every negative issue seem not quite as horrible as it might be. With mirth life seems much more bearable. Make sure you attend the next party you are invited to. It’s good for your health.

No Problem

In the midst of my duties as a store greeter, I got in a very interesting discussion with a senior gentleman (who was covered in age spots). He (“Jon”) had returned from Florida after the death of his third wife due to cancer. His home was in a central Ohio independent living facility close by to one of his three daughters.

I told him that I wished my mother (see Miracles by Mom) would move into a retirement community. The house was over one hundred years old, and was a maintenance nightmare. (I felt my mother’s health was compromised by the possibility of mold.) Some of mom’s depression was due to the fact she lived alone. She is a people person. (She thrives on being around others.)

Like many older adults, Jon didn’t in anyway want to be a burden to his children or grandchildren. He knew his daughters loved him. His daughter in Columbus wanted him close by to care for him as he had done for her as a child. (It was time to return the favor.)

In the life of many adult children, the role changes in regard to their parents. The child/parent relationship becomes a strong friendship. The child often becomes the caregiver, and the parent the child.  It can get confusing at times as to who is in charge. In situations like this, loyalty should be a motivating factor. Shouldn’t our true love for each other always somewhat guide the direction in our life?

The Fine China

If you have ever snacked on (and enjoyed) Stacy’s Pita Chips, are you aware of their product slogan? “Life’s short, use the good bowl” Though this is a great way to convince people to eat more of Stacy’s Pita Chips, it’s also one of the best life mottos around.

Many people wait for a distant day in the future to do all the fun things they planned to do. Usually that day never comes. Why not enjoy your formal, “special” china and silver wear for an ordinary meal. It’s better to keep the stuff in use than gathering dust. (Tarnished forks, knives, and spoons are inconvenient to clean.) Don’t wait to see those relatives that you have delayed visiting for a while. No one knows what the future could bring.

These are the questions I wish to ask you. What wonderful thing in your life have you been delaying for some period of time in the future? Have you thought about what you might enjoy doing? If you haven’t, it’s time. So don’t delay your dreams and wishes because tomorrow might just be too late.  

What Would You Do?

Two separate situations at work arose in my world of greeting where my response was not that of an adult. A co-worker (“Cary”) told me of a negative comment one of my leads (“Granger”) made about my work performance as a Utility Worker. I should have let it go. Instead I went to angrily confront Granger. He denied the whole thing.

I confronted Cary, who said he couldn’t lie. Cary seemed to get a kick out of telling me any negative comment someone made to about me. Why avoid telling me for the purpose of upsetting. Currently, I am avoiding him like the plague.

I was asked to bring one of the store’s motorized carts to the other end of the store for a customer that’s in need. The cashier (“Lisa”) at the self scan (U-scan) also got a call from the other cashier (“Jeff”) at the U-scan at the opposite side of the store.

Arriving at my destination, I gave the cart to the person who needed it. I assumed that had been the same person the Greeter (“Rochelle”) had intended it for. It was not. She had her own person who now had to wait for an electronic cart as there were no more available at the moment.

Jeff was thrilled with me, but Rochelle was not. She had some choice words with me. I in turn had choice comments with Lisa and Jeff, who were not responsible for my catastrophe. How do you handle it when your acts of goodness go bad?

What would you do in these situations? An act of goodness has gone wrong, and a hurtful comment where no one is taking ownership.

My advice is don’t stop doing the right thing. Ignore the irritating junk in your life, and live your life in full color. Remember, with the rain of life (bad) comes; eventually the sun (good) will shine.

Things Are Changing

People work a job for several reasons: To pay bills, get medical insurance, or because they love the job. (It gives them a sense of purpose.) Like most things in life, one’s employment can change into something it was never anticipated to be. That rule has held true with my current job as a Greeter (see A Broken Parakeet).

I was told when I requested to go back to the position of Utility Worker that this was a definite impossibility. My supervisor claims my cart retrieval speed and my lack in not bringing in the correct quantity of carts in one haul was the reason I was being downgraded to a Greeter (rather than I assume being fired). I was thankful for that.

For several days I observed my co-workers, very few of them seemed to be doing any better than I was. Many of them even thanked me for how helpful I was to them. Though didn’t have much speed in controlling the required ten cart minimum, I was persistent in getting the job done.  The final decision is up to my managers. I hope they make the choice I believe they should.

What things are out of your control? Can you leave the ultimate decision in God’s hands? Do you think He needs your advice? As I have stated many times before, God always has your best interest in mind. You can count on that.

The Egg Hunt

If you’ve ever helped prepare the candy for a community Easter egg hunt, you know that can be a daunting assembling task. The first step involves finding two plastic egg halves that will connect together. Before snapping the colorful egg pieces together, a piece of candy is put in the middle. If you have a lot of Easter eggs to make up, a group of volunteers can make this process faster and more enjoyable.

I assume the egg hunt our church did (in connection with the YMCA) was a smashing success. Lots of happy kids (in a variety of ages) joyfully grabbed lots of candy at frenzied pace. Viewing this process is usually rather entertaining for the parents.

A group effort is always more successful when everyone in that crowd is totally committed. The burden is lightened, and a side effect is that friendships are developed. So don’t ever shy away from operating together as a well oiled machine. The sense of satisfaction is enormous. Give it a chance. There is nothing to be loss, and a great deal to gain.

Minus You

Once again, I was watching a TV show I was really enjoying when the commercial break came about.  A commercial for the Mount Carmel Health System came on with the actors looking scares as they got a variety of x-rays for whatever illness they were might be suffering from. The slogan near the end really hit me “right between the eyes” with its universal, non-hospital meaning.  It was “some people can’t imagine a world without you.”

As you might imagine, that slogan raises quite a few questions in my mind. All human beings need to feel there life is meaningful, and has purpose to those that are important to them.  I want to know does anyone come to mind that would be lost without your presence (if it were gone)? Can you remember ever telling (or showing) someone how much value they have to you?

After someone has passed on from this life to the next, the time is gone to tell them how much you love them. Flowers at a casket can’t make up for what you failed to express during that person’s life. Regret (or guilt) take’s over, and she is a vicious taskmaster that will never fail to remind you of what you failed to do.

Take it from me. Don’t delay another second in doing what you know needs to be done. You’ll feel better after it’s done. I’m behind you all the way. This is your moment to positively alter someone’s existence.

Benedict Arnold

Do you ever feel like a hypocrite (two-faced)? What people see on the outside does not match what is happening in your mind. If people knew the real you, would they still want to know you? (There is a war inside your body. You feel like a traitor because of your two different sets of morals. Very few individuals have met the authentic version of yourself.)

Could you be totally vulnerable enough with someone so they could look inside your soul to see both the good and bad? To you that may sound way to frightening to you. (It is.) You feel sick to your stomach and scared just thinking about it.

Often times a person’s inside feelings are directed by what is input into their mind through a variety of media sources. Philippians 4:8 provides a long list of things to think about that can completely transform and improve the inner person. Meditate on things that are true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious, the best, beautiful, and praiseworthy.  That doesn’t leave a lot of room for deception, evil thinking, anger, or doubt.

At various times in my life, the “inner Robert” has not always matched up with the “real-life Robert.” As I have found the few reliable friends I have felt comfortable opening up to; my burden has become much lighter. Someday, I hope to be the logical (always nice and wise) individual you read of in these blogs.

It is always important to somehow get to the “internal you.” Deal with that through counseling or some form of journaling. If someone truly loves you, chances are very little about you will shock them. (Maybe they already know it.) They will be glad you felt confident enough to open up to them with your fragile honesty. Satan is the one whispering that lie of unworthiness and self-condemnation into your head. Don’t believe it. Try being an open book to another human being. Something fabulous may result from it, or you may get burned. Either way you have gained valuable information about who you can or can’t trust. In life, it is nothing ventured; nothing gained.

Ill, but Confident

Thankfully, I’ve been in remission from Lymphoma for almost five years now. It’s much easier to see the whole picture of my cancer much more clearly from the other side now. In May 2009, the type of cancer I had was eventually diagnosed due to severe dizziness (or instability on my legs).

I remember the sheer fright I had at the possibility of dying as some had that were diagnosed with Lymphoma in the past. My wife (who had a father that died of cancer) and my 13 year old daughter (Allena) were doing their best to not imagine life without me.

I also chose to medically retire from my 18.5 career with the federal government in August of 2009. I was only 45 at the time (twenty years before I planned to retire). The world I had been so secure in was rapidly changing around me. While chemotherapy last eight months, there were several things I did that made this unique journey more controllable.

1.   With my faith in God, I chose to find the positives in this experience rather than the negative. A bad attitude would make this experience unbearable, and hinder my healing. There were positives with cancer.

They included no side effects from chemotherapy, pleasant stays at The James Cancer Center, writing two books (both by PublishAmerica), increased volunteering (when I could because work duties no longer existed), being able to see my daughter before and after school, helping out with housework, adopting our two male Chihuahuas (Rosco and Chico) that were my companions when I was home alone, friends got me to where I needed to be, the city of Columbus provided special handicapped busing that picked me up from my home and took me to my destination (the reverse was also true), and finally enjoying all the napping, reading, and TV viewing I wanted. Since I was not working, my life was a lot calmer. The majority of my stress was gone.

2.   I discovered that being the one to update my health on my CaringBridge website to keep all those that loved me updated. Since I was the writer, I felt like I had some measure of control (a big thing for cancer patients).

CaringBridge put me more in tune with what was happening in my body.  I touched by all the comments of concern for my health. (CaringBridge is a free website that can be established for people that are ill).

3.   It helped for me to face (head on) the scary possibility of my death (or my finite existence here on Earth). I wasn’t being negative, but if it could happen I wanted to mentally prepare my wife (Bobbi) and daughter for it. During my illness, my wife and I chose to regularly attend a cancer support group.

During this time, I was given the opportunity to do an “exit video” free of charge. This was me on camera giving my wishes for my immediate family in my absence. I didn’t get through this without crying when I became fully aware of what I was doing.

When I was thirteen, my father was killed in a car accident. Though Dad couldn’t help his death, he would never have wanted me to feel abandoned by him. Through truth was many a time I felt out of place as a boy (and male) without my father there to guide me through the choppy waters of being a male.

To this affect, I made a “Heaven Folder” on my computer with a letter to my wife. Four were written for my daughter during important times in her life. I prayed these letters would soften the blow in my absence. I would always be with her in some form even if my physical presence was gone.

The letters I wrote for Allena were at her 16^th birthday, high school graduation, her wedding, and the birth of my first grandchild. (So far, I have passed the first two milestones in her life.)

No matter where you are in your cancer journey, chances are the ones that love you are traveling this challenging path with you. It is my prayer that my suggestions have offered you some measure of calmness in the craziness of cancer.

In the end, your healing and life are not in your hands. Only God decides whether your ultimate healing will occur on Earth or in Heaven. You can be assured the Almighty knows what He is doing (Jeremiah 29:11-13).

You are His precious child. Believe He loves you with every ounce of faith you have left. In the end, could cancer make you a much better person than you were before it? You be the judge.

No Choice

Have you ever heard the statement “I had no choice?” Unfortunately, that comment is a lie. We always have alternatives. Let’s restate the above remark to say what’s really meant. “Of the options that are available, only one is acceptable for me.”

Here are examples where people might see no option is available, but do choices exist? Example one, Chuck has an important family event to attend. At the last minute his work boss asks Chuck to stay for several additional hours that evening to complete an important project.

Example two, Della, a college student, realizes several hours before class that she has an important paper due that she has forgotten. Maybe Della can resurrect an old high school paper that’s around her dormitory room. It’ll be tight, but maybe the paper can be tweaked to work.

Example three, Sidney and his wife Lucille are going to an important social event that they are running slightly late for. Sidney has just been asked his opinion on the third dress Lucille has put on. Sidney doesn’t like this dress either. His only option is to lie if they have any hopes of being there for the majority of the evening.

Example four, Bill, a married man of thirty years, has found the love of his life (not his wife, Ruth). He fills the only way to deal with his unhappy marriage is a divorce. Bill fills the only option is to be released from the marriage to ultimate happiness with his mistress, Tillie.

In all four scenarios there were other alternatives. Let’s explore them. In example one, Chuck could have told his boss about the situation, taken the repercussions for leaving, or make other arrangements to complete the project. In example two, Della could have explained the situation, and begged for an extension from the teacher.

In example three, in this kind of situation it would have been better for Sidney to be truthful about Lucille’s dress even if they would be late to the event. Lucille was depending on Sidney’s honesty about her clothing for this enchanted evening. In example four, Bill should try marital counseling before calling the marriage quits.

Always realize there are options in every situation. Some of those alternatives may not always have pleasant repercussions, but only you can make the right choice for your lifestyle. It’s time to grow up, and become part of the grown-up world. Be fully alert when you make your decisions, and be ready to accept the outcomes. This may not be warm and fuzzy, but it’s the truth.

   

I Feel Good?

In the post A Guilty Pleasure, the question was raised, “If your greatest temptation were to challenge your will power for it, would you give in?” Consider this “back door” to the above post from a true paranoid. “When you are successful in resisting your most horrible enticement do you feel victorious or guilty that you were going to engross yourself in it at all?”

Examples of what this post is referring to include: the grossly overweight woman (Careel) successfully avoiding the ice cream treats in her freezer that she doesn’t need, but feeling guilty because this was how Careel wanted to deal with the fight she had with her mother earlier that day. Maybe Careel should consider weight loss surgery. Wouldn’t that solve all her issues?

There’s the guy (Reggie) who is emotionally hooked to internet pornography. He stays away from it for a week because he knows how much it bothers his wife when she finds out. Though Reggie should be proud of this achievement, Reggie wonders why he feels better when viewing this stuff. Reggie wonders if he is a pervert.

There is the teenage boy (Noah), who is managed to stay away from the Nora at school that is a bad influence on every aspect of his life. When the two of them are together, trouble is bound to follow. Noah’s managed to stay away from Nora for a month per his parent’s request. If Noah is doing the right thing, why does it feel so wrong?

I wish I had answers to the questions I’m raising. I don’t. That’s not the purpose of this weblog. Many times in life to find success, you must be your own researcher to get the answers to the issues you might have. A library can be a great source in helping to discover a variety of resources to aid you in your quest for knowledge. Counseling has aided millions of people throughout the years in coming to terms with all their stored up emotions. Never underestimate the power of prayer.

God does not need the World Wide Web to communicate with you. Though He knows you inside and out, the Almighty wants to hear your honest struggles straight from your lips. Consider some of the above sources in dealing with whatever might be bothering you.

My Funny Life?

“A cheerful disposition is good for your health; gloom and doom leave you bone-tired.” Proverbs 17:22 (MSG) “a time to laugh…” Ecclesiastes 17:22 (KJV) These verses lead me to believe that God wants you happy, and laughter can be part of your everyday life. I’ve covered the topic of “laughter” before in posts like My Sitcom Life and A Time to Laugh.

Let’s revisit this topic with something of value to you (hopefully). Have you ever noticed when your life seems to be going down the toilet that a good period of solid laughter (through whatever means) seems to make things much less gloomy? The circumstances haven’t changed, but your outlook has. Try it for yourself, and notice the difference in you.

I personally believe if you look for the humorous moments in your life. Overall, you’ll be a much more joyful, positive individual. I’ve got no data to back that up, but my heart tells me it is true. That may not be enough proof for some, but it is all I need.

You are in charge of the quality of your own destiny. We all know life is not always fair, and the bad stuff can not always be avoided. Laugh, and enjoy life more. Don’t, and possibly become a critical, depressing person that few want to be around.

Many of us have issues that we can barely handle. Don’t be the type of human being that makes someone burdens heavier by adding your own to what’s already there. What kind of person do you wish to be? Think about it.

My Attraction

When you meet someone new (that eventually could become a friend), what makes you want to take relationship further? Is it appearance, commonalities (or interests), personality quirks, or how the person could assist you? Chances are you bond with this person because there is something in both of you that clicks when you meet.

I’ve somewhat covered the topic of “friends” in the post Forever Friends. Here’s what I would like to add to that. A good friend can be invaluable in helping to celebrate or figure out life issues. It’s difficult to explain to someone who doesn’t have them how to get them. As life is, they often show up when they are least expected.

Life always seems to be a lot more bearable when there is someone there to help carry the load. Just as you might be accountable to a friend, the reverse is also true. You need to be both honest to your friend, as well as being present for their time of joys and sorrow.

As the old hymn states, “What a friend we have in Jesus…” He understands what your heart is saying when your mouth can’t quite utter the correct words. The Son of God is available 24/7 to communicate with you in prayer. He is closer to you than any family member (Proverbs 18:24). You can bank on that.

The Return of a Visitor

Jealousy is an ugly thing. It keeps us from being appreciative of the blessings others receive. My wife received a very special guest, and I was envious (see The Visitor). This is how the rest of this post will play out. It never happened. I and my fertile imagination made the whole thing up. This is what I wish would have happened, but it did not. Enjoy.

It was September of 2014; it was a Thursday (my day off from work). After a full day of housework, I was worn out. At around 1:00PM, I laid down for an hour nap in our basement bedroom.

In my mind, it had been a little over a month since my wife had surgery. Teleworking upstairs, she was recuperating well (see My Three Wives, Metamorphosis).  Our three Chihuahuas were upstairs with her resting.

I could hear Bobbi clicking away on her keyboard as I closed my eyes, and started melting into slumber. With her headphones on, she could hear practically nothing around her. I could see a thin streak of smoke coming from underneath the door of the laundry room. What was causing that?

Before I could get up to check it out a twelve year-old boy with round glasses, short flaming red hair, in white shorts and a white t-shirt and no shoes stood next to my bed. I blinked my eyes several times. What was I seeing? I was tempted to go upstairs, and get Bobbi.

The image smiled and spoke. “Dad, it’s me Taylor. I’m finally here.” I’d never met this person, but I knew who it was immediately.

“Son,” I stood and we hugged. Taylor was a solid being, and not a ghost. I could see him in fine detail from the light filtering through the blinds. This was unbelievable. I’d always felt I had a boy, but didn’t know for sure.

“Erin said she had a good visit with mom last year. I guess she saved her life.” (Bobbi hadn’t dreamed that whole thing up after all.) ”I wanted to let you know we are all waiting for the three of you in Heaven one day. All of your children know the two of you would have been great parents. Allena is so lucky. I got to go.”

“Wait” I whispered as I reached out to what was no longer there. I lay down and continued my nap. Later that afternoon I told Bobbi the whole wondrous tale.

Though she was relieved to know the identity of the child in her room last year, she was less than happy that I’d cheated of the opportunity to meet her firstborn child. She was just upstairs. I could have yelled. I reminded her I’d been cheated out of the chance to meet my daughter last Christmas time. To her, that was irrelevant as she went back to work, and I continued chipping away at the mound of dirty laundry.

Pretending can be fun as long as we realize it is not reality. Our ability to be creative differentiates us from all of God’s other creations. It’s important not to get lost in what might have been to deal with the realities of today (James 4:13-15). True happiness involves dealing with what on your plate right now. I believe someday in Heaven I will see my children (see Lifetime Membership). Until then I have a life to live, challenges and responsibilities to rise to, and joyful moments to enjoy to the fullest. What about you?

Open Mouth and Insert Foot

In the workplace, I try to ignore a lot of the idle chit-chat around me. I give my co-workers the benefit of the 99% of the time. The only time I don’t do that is when comments that are being said are unkind (or unfair) about a group of people (because of their race, sexual identity, handicap of some kind, nationality, or gender).

At my 9am break, there were two other people in the employee lounge besides me. The two other people in the room (according to their nametags were “Cleo S.” and “Mabel W.” We were all watching the Queen Latifah Show (QL). QL was interviewing a well-known male gay actor in the sit-com arena. This actor said he had even gotten the opportunity to throw out the first ball in a baseball game.

Before I realized what was happening, Cleo had gotten up to change the TV station, but not before he made the following comments (or something like this): “I’m not going to watch that gay man. If I was at the stadium, I would have booed him.”

I could tell Cleo wanted to engage me in his conversation. Instead I chose to become preoccupied with my cell phone. I was wondering if I’d actually heard what I thought I heard. I was certain.

I knew that if I lifted my head the angry, red-faced, out-of-control Robert would come out yelling (for the entire store to hear), “Shut up, you bigot.” When my morning break was over, I chose to report Cleo’s words to the proper store authority. They were not surprised when Cleo’s name was mentioned as the offender.  

I was also asked if I was aware of the store’s 0% policy on this kind of harassment language. I replied that I was. This kind of communication was a shock to me since I rarely heard it. It had given me no joy to turn Cleo in, but I knew I had to. It was important for him to learn this kind of talk had to cease at work.

As I did my duties later that morning there were several other things that came to mind. Was Cleo aware of QL’s sexual identity? Why would he be concerned with a homosexual guest when the host of the show was rumored a lesbian? My guess was that he was unaware of this information.

I don’t believe in any way Cleo was prejudice. This homosexual male was effeminate in the way he was speaking. Unfortunately, some homosexual men can be effeminate in the way they talk and act at times. Homosexual and effeminate often become linked together. It shouldn’t be that way, but only the gay community can change that public perception.

Even though Cleo didn’t state it properly, his problem seemed to be with effeminate men, and not the gay male community. Many people like Cleo need to learn to keep their opinion inside their head instead voicing their intolerant view to everybody around them.

Technically, Cleo said nothing that could really be deemed horrendous. What was awful was the derogatory manner the words were said in. I’m not sure what will happen once the “wheels of justice” start running. I hoped Cleo was only reprimanded, and didn’t lose his job.

Life is not always pleasant. Sometimes you have to step up and do the stuff that leaves a sour taste in your mouth. Just remember when you step up, and do the right thing (no matter the cost) you create a better world for everyone else.  

Maybe you will be the person to cause a possible offender to think hard before he (or she) does something that will cross the line of what’s right (and what’s wrong). That’s something to be proud of. Give yourself a pat on the back (if you are that limber).

Dad on the Edge

My adult daughter was in an intersection getting ready to turn to the road to wherever she was going. The female in back of her was impatient. Possibly she was running late for an important appointment. She decided my daughter needed a reminder so she yelled an expletive about the size of her backend loud enough so Allena could hear it from her automobile.

How can one determine the size of one’s butt from car to car when both of you are seated? The answer is you can’t. It’s smart not to make a turn until you can make it safely. If you turn and crash, that can’t be taken back. You can believe that honking driver in back of you will not be paying for your automobile repairs. Why can’t people be patient, and civil with their words (or mind their own business)?

Once Allena became a teenager a variety of people (friends and strangers) have felt the need to say mean things to my daughter for no real reason. It’s almost like my daughter has a sign on her forehead that says, “Say or do anything you want to me because I can take it.”

As Allena’s father, I know how sensitive she is to these comments. She gets hurt easily, then angry, then depressed. I don’t like this vicious cycle.  If I knew I could beat all those people that hurt her at times, I would. (I guess her mother and I are sometimes guilty of not always being as supportive as we could be.)

Part of parenthood is standing back and allowing your children to fight their own battles no matter how painful that may be for you as their parent (and friend). Welcome to the adult life of your children. It’s not for wimps, but for enthusiastic cheerleaders instead. Your offspring will always need you no matter how old they get. You are important to their development and support unit.

Lifetime Success

Amber Espinoza (of Real Lifetime Women) stated, “Success is just setting goals, and building a path to make them happen.” Though this is a good formula for success, it is not easy to be triumphant in whatever you do. Accomplished individuals will tell you that it involves a great deal of difficult physical (and emotional) work.

When you read the above statement does it excite or scare you?  Does the challenge of the unknown make you want to be a better person? How could success in a certain area of your life be a game changer? Don’t wait. Plan out what you want to do. Then do it. You have the ability to make your dreams reality. Don’t wait around for someone else to be an “agent of change” in your life. You do it now.

Important Reminders

As I was watching some show I’d recorded on my DVR, two advertisements came on back to back by Values.com: the Foundation for a Better Life. The first commercial involved an African American marital couple (or this was my assumption with their familiarity with each other). The man and woman were both behind separate doors in a hallway with a set of stairs.

The couple was slamming their respective door back and forth as they argued. It all stopped when the man admitted he was wrong, the couple hugged each other as they walked back to her room. (The woman agreed he was wrong too as they walked back.) As the commercial ends, you see these words “Forgiveness: Pass It On.” What a great message.

How many things in our lives would be much better if forgiveness were generous part of it? I’ve often heard that giving absolution to someone does not correct the wrong they have done, but it frees the one who was done wrong to live their life freely and fully.

Have you noticed how better you feel when you’ve been exonerated for the mistake you performed? Why not allow someone else to have that same joy by giving the same gift you may have received?

The second commercial dealt with a school bus full of children. Playing in the background was chorus of Wynonna Judd’s What the World Needs. The bus driver looks at the boy in the front seat and says, “You know what to do.” With a blue cloth bag, the boy (maybe twelve years-old) walks down the middle aisle of the bus collecting can goods. The next frame shows him passing them off to a smiling woman (in her forties) behind a white door. At the conclusion of this commercial, you see the words “Generosity: Pass It On.” What a needed message.

Generosity (or kindness) doesn’t have to only be related to physical objects. One can also be generous with their time, which in many cases has a monetary value to many people. When you do this for those around you, love is demonstrated and spoken.

When you give to someone without thought of repayment (or any type of gratitude), it’s very thrilling feeling. To know that you have changed someone’s life for the better is something you will never forget. Trust me on this.

Forgiveness and generosity are two values every human being on the planet Earth should practice regularly in their lives. Besides leaving you with great self esteem, they help to remind us that others exist in this world. We are all connected, and it’s about time we demonstrate this with our actions.

Gone in Sixty Seconds (or Less)

Can you imagine the entire world being in total chaos all at once? Automobiles and airplanes are crashing because the operators are gone. Millions of Christians (as well as babies and children) all over Can you imagine the entire world being in total chaos all at once? Automobiles and airplanes are crashing because the operators are gone. Millions of Christians (as well as babies and children) all over the world have vanished. Without the influence of God on the Earth, things like stealing and violence become the norm. (For the visual of this, please view the 2014 version of Left Behind starring Nicholas Cage, Cassi Thomson, and Chad Michael Murray.)

The vanishing described above is known as the “rapture.” The dictionary defines it as “transporting of a person from one place to another.” This definition reminds me a lot of the Star Trek 4: The Voyage Home, and that familiar phrase, “Scotty, beam me up.”

Though the term “rapture” is not specifically used in scripture, the process and after effect are. When Jesus comes back to collect His children, it will be quickly and unexpected. The rapture is more fully explained in Matthew 24:26-44, Mark 13:32-36, and Luke 17:34-37.

To find out what happens after the rapture for those left behind, you can refer to the book of Revelation. The disclaimer to that would be this book is not the easiest to understand with all its symbolic language.  

To better understand this turbulent period of time in a more understandable way, I highly recommend the prequel, kids, and adult books of the Left Behind series by New York Times best selling authors, Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins. It is important to remember these books are not the scripture, but are fiction based on the Bible. To find out how a person gets to Heaven thereby avoiding the Tribulation, see the post Salvation by the Book. Check out what you’ve read. It’s important that you understand it. This is a matter of life and death.

Romance Advice for Men

What guys don’t understand is: when we want flowers, you don’t have to spend fifty dollars on roses. You could pick up simple ones in a field and show up to surprise us. When we want a sweet message, it doesn’t have to be five pages long. It can simply [be a text to] say “have a good day pretty.” When we want surprises, just show up with a dollar candy bar, and tell us you love us. We aren’t that hard to understand.

Slogans

I am a big proponent of the above advertising catch phrases. It’s a quick way to get a cross an important.  Lash Chevrolet (in Johnstown, OH) has a unique motto for their TV commercial. “When it comes to relationship, we’re all about people.” As much as that may be for this automobile dealership, there is a much bigger meaning at large. Shouldn’t we all be about our connection with other human beings? Your simple kind word or act of concern could change the trajectory of someone’s life path.

The church I attend, Eastside Community Church at www.eccag.org, has one of the best church slogans I’ve ever come across in the many churches I’ve attended. “Ordinary people…extraordinary God” tells me several things. I may be ordinary, but my God is above average. It also makes sense that if our God is wiser than we are that He could better handle our challenges than we can.

If there was a slogan (simple phrase) for the main point of why you are here on Earth, what would it be? By going to my blog you’ve learned what mine is. “Encourage Me…The advice guru that challenges your way of thinking.” The “me” refers to those I wish to encourage with my blog. Where do you want to go with your life? A precise motto can be a target for you to shoot for. If your goals change, you can always revise your slogan. You need to believe yourself to achieve the best in your life.

Life in the Bathroom

Have you ever thought about all the living that takes place in your bathroom? Showering (or bathing), using the toilet, shaving, and make-up application (for women) all conglomerate in one room, which counts for a good portion of one’s life.

According to the article, Safety Begins in the Bathroom by Patrick Rafter, seventy percent of home accidents occur in the bathroom.  Many of those mishaps happen with senior citizens who slip (or fall) causing bone fractures. After a fall like this, many senior citizens are unable to live independently in their own home, which they have probably lived in for many years. 

One can be safe in their own bathroom without paying for costly renovations. Here are a few minor additions that will make a world of difference in regards to your well-being in the lavatory. Especially pay attention if you are a senior citizen. Grab bars (strategically placed inside and outside of the shower); non-slip mats (inside the shower or tub); a shower safety seat (mounted securely for the tub); a raised toilet seat; and shower doors (made of safety glass or plastic).

For a complete listing of bathroom safety tips, check out the Home Safety Month page at www.accessibilityrenovations.org. You’ll find the full version of the above article this post was adapted from in the March 12, 2015 version of the Rocky Fork Enterprise newspaper or on the website www.thisweeknews.com.

Simply Superior

Are you intimidated by someone? Maybe they have a magnificent physique, are more spiritual, have a nicer home, are smarter than you, or have the career of your dreams. These are just a few items. Can you think of more?

In private, things are not always as they appear in public. Here are a few examples. The woman with the shapely physique spends hours in the gym daily away from her family. She used to be morbidly obese. The paranoia of returning to her prior body causes her to workout like a hamster running on a wheel.

The man with the gorgeous house in the posh neighborhood is over $80,000 in debt. Your girlfriend (who appears to be so close to God) is on the verge of walking away from anything to do with Christianity due to situations in her life where the Heavenly Father doesn’t appear to hear her prayers.

God has never judged anyone by the same standards that man has. Consider this from I Samuel 16:7 (NIV) “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” That verse does my heart well. It comforts me to know that God’s standards are fair, and that he is more concerned with my heart attitude than my appearance when I am in his presence.

This also means I can’t fool God with what comes out of my moth because he knows how it really is in my heart. Your true friends are always the ones that accept you as you are-warts and all. As always, my advice is to change which you can, and learn to accept the rest. Better yet, why mess with the original, simply fantastic creation the Heavenly Father made you.

Forgetting and Reaching

“But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead.” (Philippians 3:12, NAS) In everyone’s life, there are things we are not happy of. Whether its something we’ve done to someone else (or someone has done to us). The Apostle Paul’s words are as important today as they were in his time.

I admit that there are some things in life that it would be absolutely hard to forget. Whatever that horrific thing might be, you’ve got to break away from it if it keeps you from living your life. If professional counseling is needed, please do it if this will bring you back to your own state of normalcy.

Looking ahead to the future is a needed part of growth. Breaking a goal down into manageable slices can make all the difference in accomplishing your vision (see My Resolution).With the right attitude of “I can do” no matter the obstacles, nothing can stop you.

Why would you allow your past negatively influence your future? Your future is bright and achievable. No one can strap you down with a negative stereotype (unless you let them). Never be your own worse enemy because you are better than that.

My Need for Speed

If you’ve been involved in church for any amount of time, chances are you’ve heard something similar to the following: “God doesn’t want you to come to church every Sunday just to warm a pew. He wants you to be an active participant in the ministries of the church. You’ll be happiest when you’re plugged in somewhere.” (Depending on your personality, this could be true.)

Have you ever zoomed by a car that had just been stopped by a police car? You go through the emotion of sorrow for the person, but thankfulness that it’s not you. (No one wants to be an active participant in a situation like this.)

I hoped it would never happen, but today was what bad dreams are made of. Speeding down one of the major streets in my neighborhood, I was going a lot faster than I should have been. When I whizzed by the out of use church where the policemen was parked, I hoped he hadn’t noticed me.

Luck was not on my side, but the flashing police lights that pulled up in back of me confirmed my nightmare had come true. When the nice policeman stopped me and asked for my driver’s license and proof of insurance, I knew this wasn’t going to be cheap.

When all was said and done, my $112 ticket was proof I had been speeding at 40 miles per hour in a 25 mile residential area. I could either pay the ticket by mail or show up several weeks later at the Gahanna Mayor’s Court to contest a ticket I deserved.

I had not-so-fond memories of the Gahanna Mayor’s Court. Several years ago (in the spring) I’d gone to turn in my family’s city taxes on the second floor of the Gahanna Municipal Building (where the Gahanna Mayor’s Court is located). I parked in a handicap parking spot, and forgot to put my handicap placard up.

Unfortunately, next to this building is the Gahanna Sheriff’s Building. Their office is the one that wrote me up. There was no way to stop the wheels of justice even when the handicap placard was produced.

(Unfortunately, on try number one I produced my wife’s handicap placard and not mine. This did not help my cause.) At the court several weeks later, I was let go with a small fine for the processing of my case. (Not a happy camper for my wasted time.)

Galatians 6:7 (of The Message) says, “Don’t be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest.” There were many times I was stopped for speeding by a police officer. On all those times, I’d received warnings instead of tickets. Maybe a ticket would have reminded me to control how fast I was driving. God tells us to obey the laws of the land (Romans 13:3-5). When we don’t, we are “mocking” (or disobeying) Him.  (That’s the truth.)

Irritating stuff happens in life. Will you play by the rules when stuff like this happens? Will your angry attitude allow you to admit when you are wrong?   Do you erupt like a volcano when you are accused of being wrong (or are you calm)? People that are constantly irrational and angry are often at a loss for friends. (Few individuals want to be around someone like that.) You are in control of the path your life takes. Your existence is up to you. Make the right change just because you can.

Anger at the Almighty

A good Christian friend of mine (“Crandall”) told me that I had an incorrect opinion about another Christian brother (“Garee”).  Crandall suggested I take the biblical approach to conflict resolution (Matthew 5:23-24) by talking directly to Garee. “The Robert approach” had been an effective method for me during my life in avoiding confrontation.

 This approach involves talking to everyone but “Garee,” and spreading your opinions around to everyone until no one can be unbiased. You’ll either feel better (with the more people to agree with you), or will eventually blow up (on family members or friends that have nothing to do with the situation).

I chose the biblical approach to conflict resolution, and ended up having a profitable ninety minute conversation (over my cell phone) with Garee. This was the right time in my life for a friendship restoration to happen (Esther 4:14).

In the midst of our discussion, I told Garee that I was irritated with God for a particular “thorn in the flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7) that had been with me for a long time. I often wondered why a loving Heavenly Father wouldn’t want His child to be happy.

My question to you is this; is it wrong to be angry with God. If you believe God is some sacred, ancient, china figurine, on a throne in the clouds, then the answer would be “no.” He can’t relate to your problems at all.

 On the opposite of that, if you believe your God has big enough shoulders to deal with your angry spurts, and He cares greatly about your life. That Heavenly Father is quite versatile.

People like the prophet Jeremiah (Jeremiah 20:7-18) and Job (Job 38-42) both had their angry moments with God. I’m sure they both wanted to know “why” the Almighty was acting the way He was.

What I (and searching souls like me) often forget is that the Heavenly Father doesn’t work on our time frame and in the manner we wish He would. He is not of this world. As appealing as it might sound to control every action of the Almighty, think about this.

“Who wants a God that can be figured out?” When it comes to a holy God, variety is the spice of life. Even though it may irritate me times, I would prefer a Heavenly Father I rarely can figure out.

Get angry with God if you must, but remember He won’t leave you even if you choose to do that. God knows best what do with your life. When it comes to your life story, He sees the beginning, middle, and end. Trust that “you’re in good hands” (just like Allstate Insurance commercial states) when it comes to you and the Almighty (John 10:29-30). 

Mr. Know It All

No matter what writing endeavors I do (whether for this blog or a church) I always want to provide the most professional and accurate written piece possible. My greatest fear is that one of my readers finds an error or something that is not plausible from lack of research on my part.

My background involves membership in a variety of churches. I know how to get through the maze of religious jargon to the heart of the issues. A study item that enhances my use of the scripture in producing the posts that you read is the Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible.

If I have a phrase of a scripture in my memory, I will be able to find the right verse in the concordance. This concordance covers every word in the King James Version of The Bible. Also included are Greek and Hebrew Dictionaries (which I have never used).

I love using my daughter’s very pink NIV/The Message Parallel Study Bible. This helps me in comparing the two, and typing in the correct verse reference when that is needed. Much of my posts are full of my own opinion for what it’s worth.

By now you have noticed my posts are full of open-ended questions, or “thinking statements” as I call them. My desire is that something you read will cause a change in your life, or encourage you to keep traveling on the right life path.

Ezekial 4:9 Bread

Several days ago, I stopped at a nearby Trader Joe’s to buy some cashews and cheese (my choice, bacon and onion) for my wife, who was teleworking from home. I knew we were low on bread because I adore sandwiches. As I was picking two loaves of the Trader Joe’s Multigrain Country Bread, the Ezekial 4:9 Bread caught my eye. (My wife had already seen it.)

If you are a regular reader of my blog, you know I love using scripture. I have done my best to show it useful to one’s everyday life. This is the reason I quote The Message so much. I believe it is the everyman’s translation of The Bible.

Ezekial 4:9 (NIV) says, “Take wheat and barley, beans and lentils; millet and spelt; put them in a storage jar and use them to make bread for yourself….”  The object of this life story is not to go to Trader Joe’s to purchase the Ezekial 4:9 Bread.

The creative team advertising this bread thought of an extremely creative name. It formed a pleasurable religious memory in my brain. (I didn’t buy the bread due to price, but it created enough of an impression for me to blog about it to you. I believe others will notice it too.)

Is there a more creative way you can think of accomplishing a task that needs to be done instead of the normal method you always choose in accomplishing that task? It’s a lot more fun, and will make your duty speed by. Give it a try. What have you got to lose?

Pray Continually

I Thessalonians 5:17 (NIV) states the above. When a person’s name or face comes to your mind, do you dismiss it as a bizarre coincidence? You’ll find I discuss prayer quite a bit on my weblog. Have you ever thought of saying a prayer of healing (protection or encouragement) when someone comes to mind. It’s quick and easy. I often find out later that my prayer recipient was facing some kind of trial at the moment I was lead to pray for him or her.

You do not need to be a “mighty prayer warrior” to be successful at this. The “average Joe” can make a real difference by offering this important service to God.

This is a much more productive use of your time when those moments occur than anything else one could do. It’s up to you on whether you divulge what you’ve done. Let God lead you in that. Be open to this, and the power it holds. I believe once you get used to it; you’ll be hooked. May God bless you.

The Boomerang Effect

“Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults-unless of course, you want the same treatment. That critical spirit has a way of boomeranging.” (Matthew 7:1, MSG)

In my life, I have discovered when I judge someone-whether it might be a problem they are dealing with that I feel is easily solvable; the incorrect way they are dealing with their offspring (no matter the age), or issues within a troubled marriage (headed for divorce)-eventually those same issues come back to roost in my family’s life.

It’s not so fun and interesting when I have to deal with the same issue I judged someone else about. Though many a time I play “judge and jury” with my own family (a work in progress), I do my best not to do that with anyone else. I hate dealing with the “Boomerang Effect.” This is a pastime that is no fun. I’ve learned it’s best to keep my mouth shut in regards to others.

Have you discovered the above to be true? What goes around; eventually comes back around, and bites you on the backend. Ouch. It’s not very enjoyable when you are the recipient of judgement. Take my advice, and make a change in the near future because you do not need Matthew 7:1 to come true in your life. 

The Background of My Life

What kind of music do you enjoy? What type of music puts you in a relaxed mood? When I am writing or doing errands around my home, I like to listen to one of the Music Choice channels. Soundscapes is soft, ethereal, New Age music that doesn’t require any concentration. At a low volume, it’s great background to the melody of my life. Soundscapes makes me feel like my life is somehow manageable, and all is love and peace.

Though music has a great effect on our moods and emotions, what positive choices do you need to make to come to terms with who the real you is? Others may not approve of the life decisions you make, but in the long run, you are the one who has to be happy with the individual you are when go to sleep at night.

Positive changes in one’s life are not always easy to make. People you love and respect may vehemently disagree with your life selections. Again it all boils down to this, can you live with yourself if you choose to make someone else’s life goals your own.

It’s always good to research things out and get others opinions, but in the end God gave you free will so you can think with the brain he gave you. I trust you will make the right decision your heart is leading you to. I feel happiness awaits a better you. 

My Sitcom Life

From a young age, I’ve become an avid viewer of sitcoms. Some of my golden oldie favorites are Golden Girls, Roseanne, and Reba. Among my current favorites are Hot in Cleveland, Mike and Molly, Girl Meets World (the sequel to Boy Meets World), Good Witch, and Cristela.

In each one these situation comedies, I love the power of laughter to change my mood from bad to good. There have always been a variety of human emotions in each sitcom that I relate to. I like the different locations (and family elements) where each sitcom takes place. It educates me on the variety of this wonderful world we all live in.

Are you the type of person that goes out of your way to meet others different than yourself? Variety of people adds a lot of excitement (and spice to your life). It never hurts to understand (and empathize) with the life perspective of another human being.

Being a person as described above, makes you more open to life and all the wonderful variety of people God placed in it. Have you by any chance prayed to God to give you the grace to get along with that person (whether family or friend) that just rubs you the wrong way? Have you ever seen the issue from their eyes?

If you love spicy food; why not a diet of spicy people? There is nothing wrong with normal. Why not open your heart to that which may be outside your comfort zone. Every human being deserves respect no matter what you may think of them. Chances are they have someone that loves them. When at all possible, do your best to be a “bright spot” in someone’s day. Be the encourager you want others to be to you.

Your Own Oz

For anyone who has read The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum, the heroine (Dorothy) and her dog Toto end up traveling on a yellow brick road to the magical Land of Oz from Kansas via a tornado in her house. While on her way to Oz, she becomes good friends with the Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion, and the Tin Woodman.

Near the end of her journey, the Good Witch Glenda tells Dorothy that she can go anywhere she wishes to by clicking her silver shoes (not red as in the movie version) quickly three times. Dorothy (and Toto) choose home.

Today, if you could put on your favorite shoes, clicked them three times, and were magically transported somewhere in the universe (past, present, or future) where would it be? What would you hope to accomplish? What adventures might you wish to have?

Actually, I think it might be interesting to get to know one of my ancestors (maybe a great, great, great grandparent). What kind of struggles and victories did they have in their everyday life? Who were the people I came from? What do we have in common (and different)? Would my great, great, great grandparents have loved me if I’d told them my true identity? Was this close to what you envisioned for you own adventure?

The study of genealogy can begin with the website Ancestory.com. Shows like Who Do You Think You Are?, Genealogy Roadshow, and  Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. can get you excited about starting this process. Sometimes your past can be the key to your future.

The Partnership

My new glasses are a joint venture of sorts. The frames have combined together with my Crizal no-glare lenses to produce assistance for my vision in doing such things as driving safely, blogging, working, church, and viewing my favorite shows on TV.

Though Crizal’s slogan of “live life in the clear” is a creative way to refer to the lenses of one’s eyeglasses, I believe it has a greater a greater meaning for one’s life. This quote reminds me of Galatians 6:7-8 (MSG) “Don’t be misled. No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest. The person who plants selfishness…harvests a crop of weeds! But the one who plants…to God …harvests a crop of real life, eternal life. ”

The commentary about these verses from The NIV Life Application Bible says, “It would certainly be a surprise if you planted corn and pumpkins came up. It’s a natural law to reap what we sow. It’s true in other areas too. If you gossip about your friends, you will lose their friendship. Every action has results. If you plant to please your own desires, you’ll reap a crop of sorrow and evil. If you plant to please God, you’ll reap joy and everlasting life. What kind of seeds are you sowing?”

Is your life as clear as it could (and should) be? What changes need to be made, or people do you need to right things with to bring about a focused enterprise with those who are of prime importance to you? You can’t get away with anything. Either someone will find out, or your conscience will guilt you in to confessing. Either way your constantly trying to cover the tracks of your lies. It’s rather exhausting. Come clean, and enjoy the peace of mind. This is for you.

Seeing Clearly Now

I’ve had glasses since I was a in my mid-teens. There was that brief stint in my twenties where I had electric blue contact lenses. Recently, I picked up my new glasses. The world around me seems a lot clearer. I like the new look of these glasses. This glass selfie is of the unshaven me (see attached picture).

President Abraham Lincoln once said, “Whatever you are, be a good one.” Are you the best version of you that is possible?  Are there changes that need to be made to put you in the best place possible in your life? What’s keeping you from getting there?

Jeremiah 29:11 says God knows where we need to be, and how to get there. Why not trust your future to Someone smarter than yourself? Doesn’t that make perfect sense? It is true that my eyesight with my new glasses seems greatly improved. Can the same be said about your own life plans? Are things much clearer now?

Christmas Brilliance

Directions: This test challenges your way of thinking with all you thought you knew on the splendor of Christmas. The phrases below describe the titles of popular Christmas hymns and carols. If you get stumped, the answers are below.

1.   Listen to the seraph announcer’s warble.

2.   Embellish the vestibule.

3.   Approach you, the totality of the loyal.

4.   Elation extended toward the terra firma.

5.   A florid, olfactory organ on a ruminant animal.

6.   A virtuous, commendable monarch.

7.   First person plural trio of masculine autocrats.

8.   Diminutive immature male walloping a percussion instrument.

9.   First person singular is fantasizing about a highly pigmented period of time, widely celebrated as a holiday.

10.                     Something arrived in the lucid middle of the night.

11.                     Tinkling metallic device that vibrates.

12.                      Sacred evening.

13.                     A spherical crystalline configuration of a bipedal primate mammal.

14.                     A specific primary backward Leon.

15.                     Miniature settlement.

16.                     Muted eventide

17.                     The expressed will of the first person plural for a blithe December 25^th.

18.                     A woody perennial plant garnished with seasonal implements.

19.                     The aggregate of this craving is a pair of hard bony appendages on the forward part of the maxilla.

20.                     Celestial harbingers perceived in the upper stratosphere.

21.                     An aria existence in the atmosphere.

22.                     During the day hours December 25^th, the tintinnabulation of a hollow brazen device has been apprehended by the first person singular.

23.                     During an interval of the eventide, a gathering of ruminant animals scrutinized by the herd guides.

24.                     Old English second person singular is being told that he vacated his seat of royal power.

25.                     God grant relaxation to high spirited, refined and courteous mortals.

Answers

1.   Hark, Herald Angels Sing

2.   Deck the Halls

3.   O Come, All Ye Faithful

4.   Joy to the World

5.   Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer

6.   Good King Wenceslas

7.   We Three Kings

8.   The Little Drummer Boy

9.   I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas

10.                     It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

11.                     Jingle Bells

12.                     O Holy Night

13.                     Frosty the Snowman

14.                     The First Noel

15.                     O Little Town of Bethlehem

16.                     Silent Night

17.                     We Wish You a Merry Christmas

18.                     O Christmas Tree

19.                     All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth

20.                     Angels We Have Heard on High

21.                     There’s a Song in the Air

22.                     I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day

23.                     While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night

24.                     Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne

25.                     God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen