Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Safeguards


Social networking sites (like Facebook and Twitter) are great ways to connect with people, share information, and market products and services. However, these sites can also provide terrorists, spies, and criminals with the information they need to uproot the lives of you, your family, and friends.

 

The more information adversaries can obtain to cause damage at your expense the better. Regularly practicing the Internet standards below will minimize your risks, and help you protect all your critical data. [i]

 

1.  Follow computer security guidelines: Adversaries prefer to go after easy targets. Keep your computer security up-to-date and make yourself a hard target.

 

2.  Never login from risky locations: Public social networking sites (SNS) don’t have secure login available. If you log-in from a hotel, cyber-cafĂ©, or airport hotspot (especially in a foreign country), your name and password can be captured at any time.[ii]

 

3.  Keep your password secure: Use different strong passwords for each online account. (Never give your password away.)

 

4.  Modify your search profile: Do a search for yourself and if too much data comes up, go to your settings and restrict the search profile.

 

 

5.  Don’t depend on the SNS for confidentiality: Even SNSs that aren’t open and public by design can become so due to hacking, security errors, poor data management practices, and data brokering. In some cases, the site terms of service explicitly claim ownership of all posted content.

 

6.  Treat links and files carefully: Social engineers and hackers posts links in comments, and try to trick you into  downloading an “update,” “security patch,” or “game.”

 

7.  Don’t trust add-ons: Plugins, games, and applications are often written by other users, not the SNSs themselves. The authors can easily gain access to your data once you install them.

 

8.  Don’t post critical information: If you don’t want it public, don’t post it. Search engines can make it easy for adversaries to find requested information. Once information is on the Internet; it is there forever.

 

9.  Review your friends’ profiles: The photos (or information) they posted about you may be a problem.

 

10.     Control “friend” access: Don’t allow just anyone (on your page). Verify “friend” requests before allowing access. Group friends (e.g. family, work, church, etc.) and control access permissions based on the groups.

 



Your Heavenly Father wants you to be safe and smart on the Internet. Because you never know who’s watching. Be careful of your Internet viewing. Remember, “I will set nothing wicked before my eyes…”[i]



[i] Psalm 101:3,  NKJV





[i] The title of this post refers to protection or safety. For more information on the topic of Internet safety, see my post “Big Brothers.”
 
[ii] This post is adapted from the brochure,  “Safe Social Networking” by www.ioss.gov.
 
[iii] Psalm 101:3,  NKJV

Tuesday, November 29, 2016

The Kiss of a Dad

Abbey Carmel didn’t know how many more family problems she could handle emotionally before she cracked wide open. In the past year her husband had almost lost [his] job, and her older son, Lawson had been involved in a traffic fatality on a weekend break from college. Recently, Abbey, her husband, Ned, and older son, Lawson, discovered the youngest child of the family, Dean, had left college to pursue a movie career, and had disappeared [to] far away Hollywood, California. [i]

        The reckless Lawson had become the responsible older son. Dean had become careless and had vanished without a clue or a cell phone call. All he’d left was a brief note saying not to worry; he’d emptied out his saving account to go pursue an acting career in Hollywood. No one needed to worry because Dean would be okay.

        Christmas Day finally arrived with coldness and lots of white snow. Abbey had cooked a feast; the Carmel’s big dog snored next to the roaring fire in the fireplace. The Christmas tree twinkled and sparkled with hundreds of white lights and festive ornaments. As the lush holiday music of [Nat King Cole] played gently on the stereo, Abbey looked at the gifts under the tree and hoped somehow Dean would contact them today.

        Abbey looked out the front window, and wondered who the tattered, grizzly beggar with a duffle bag was that was approaching their front door. It took no time for Ned to realize it was Dean. The front door swung open as Ned ran in his house slippers to greet and kiss his wayward younger son. Once family and dog greetings were made, tears were shed by Abbey, and the lunch feast was consumed, it was time to open all the Christmas gifts.[ii]

        Since the Carmel family had not heard from Dean in months, they assumed he might be dead or permanently lost to them. Dean’s gifts (though he didn’t expect anything better than the nothing a volunteer might receive) included a beautiful silk, crimson bathrobe and an antique ring from his father that once belonged to Dean’s grandfather. Dean was overcome with his parent’s unconditional generosity.

Everyone but Lawson was elated that the prodigal son was finally home. (Lawson thought it felt strange to finally be the good son.)     Lawson got angry, and cussed loudly to everyone’s amazement (including the dog). In the past months, Lawson had made a turn-around in his life. His parents were proud of the change. He’d not given them half as much worry as Dean had (or at least Lawson couldn’t think of anything).

        Abbey loved her two sons with all her heart, but sibling rivalry was a very ugly thing. She had to somehow fix this problem between her two sons because family was everything.
       
THE [CAST OF CHARACTERS]:  Implied unnamed mother of the prodigal (or lost son), unnamed father and sons

[BIBLICAL] LOCATION: Luke 15:11-32

[DISCUSSION QUESTIONS]:

1.  Should we be happy when those who we don’t determine deserve blessings from God receive them?


2.  Have you had any personal experiences with sibling rivalry?


3.  Can a single parent successfully be mother and father to their child (children)? What strengths do both a mother and father bring to a family?


THE [LESSON]: God will take you back into His arms of love no matter how far you’ve strayed from His will. The choice to return to God must be made willingly by you. God will never force you come back to Him.  [iii]

Artwork by a very young Allena Kinker









[i] The term “brotherly love” refers to feelings of compassion for humanity.

[ii] “The Father’s Love” (Performed by Bob Carlisle from the movie, Jack Frost)
Three feet tall and full of questions
You must have thought
I was the smartest man alive
I didn't always have the answers
To every little how and where and why
Like "Daddy, why's the sky so blue today?"
"Does Jesus really hear me when I pray?"
"When I grow up, will I be just like you?"
"Will I be tall and strong and brave?"
There is no power on earth
like your fathers' love
So big and so strong as your father's love
A promise that's sacred,
a promise from heaven above
No matter where you go...
always know You can depend on
your father's love
Especially when it's cold,
especially when you're lonely
When your little heart is lost
trying to find it's way
I know the world is always changing
But, remember son, that some things never change
And even when my life on earth is through
There will still be a part of me in you
'Cause some things are forever
Nothing's ever gonna take my love from you
There is no power on earth
like your father's love
So big and so strong as your father's love
A promise that's sacred,
a promise from heaven above
Did I hug enough, did I care enough
When you most needed me,
Was I there enough
Enough to make you feel the power of
Your father's love


[iii] Adapted from All for One: The Towns of Ohio Complete Trilogy, book one chapter twenty-four “Homecoming of a Rebel” by Robert Kinker

Monday, November 28, 2016

Money Talks

During my year and three month stint at the technology and office supplies giant, Staples, as Cashier/Sales, I got a great deal of valuable work experience in this area. Below are my helpful hints to make your experience in the check-out lane more pleasant no matter what time of the year it is. [i]

99% of customers serviced are kind and have no issues with their experience. It’s the 1% that makes the cashier job quite a challenge. (I believe what you will read below are common concerns for most cashiers all over the world.)

Cashiering can be monotonous in its routine, but also a joy when a cashier makes that quick (less than a minute) all-important human connection.

1.   A friendly smile can go a long way in making a cashier’s day. We love you trying to connect with us by using small talk.[ii] It breaks up the work day, and it helps to make a quick verbal connection.

2.   Do not expect store rules to be altered when your problem arises. Like any job, the rules are there for a reason. They protect both of us. Horrible behavior on your part can make this an unpleasant experience for both of us.


3.   Do not interrupt a cashier for a “quick question” when they are with another customer. This delays the transaction of the other patron, and could distract the cashier enough to make an error. (You can wait in line for your turn like the rest of the customers. At that time the cashier will give you their undivided attention. )

4.   Do not take out your irritation on a cashier (no matter how upset you are over the situation). As a representative of the store you are using, they must remain polite to you no matter how they might wish to reply to you. (If they wish to stay employed there.) It is not a fair fight.


5.   If a cashier does not know the answer to your problem, allow them the time (and your patience) in getting a solution to your issue.

6.   If a patron has a time construction, do not go shopping. The cashier has a process they are required to follow. Tapping your fingers, looking at your watch, or demanding the cashier move faster doesn’t aid in getting you out quicker. It irritates the cashier, which slows down the process.


7.   If an item that you are purchasing has a wrong price connected to the barcode, give the cashier time to correct that in the manner their store allows. (Some stores will empower cashiers with a discretionary dollar amount per item that does not require manager approval.)

8.   If the cashier does not seem as bright (and cheery) as you think they should be, who knows what might be going on in their personal (or work) life?


9.   If you are in a long check-out line, and see a cashier clocking out for the day in lieu of helping you, don’t cop an attitude in your head.  That cashier has worked a grueling shift in retail, and is ready to go home. (They have a life outside of the store you are patronizing.)

10.         If you are purchasing goods for your company and they have a non-taxable status, you must inform the cashier of that at the beginning of the transaction. Your word of mouth is the only way the cashier is aware of that. (Making them aware of this while your purchase is processing, or at the end of the transaction is too late.)


11.         If you have a customer service issue, be concise with your wording so the individual can efficiently deal with your concern.

12.         If you have two separate transactions that both require the same information (like a phone number for a store rewards card), please do not expect the needed facts for transaction two to be remembered a second time by the cashier.

You might be surprised how many people a cashier sees in one day (and the amount of data being processed by them). It can be both emotionally and physically exhausting.


13.         If you recognize a store associate shopping in their store in street clothes (and not in uniform), this means they are off the clock. They are not being paid to help you. Resist the urge to confront them with a store-related question.

14.         Nothing is ruder for a customer to be in a cell phone conversation when I am trying to communicate to them. Please allow your cashier the courtesy to do his job with a fully engaged patron.


15.         Read store coupons carefully. Do not expect a cashier to accept an expired coupon, or one that is unrelated to the purchase being made at the moment. (In this case, the faults lie with the patron not validating their coupons.)

16.         Realize the question and answer, “how are you?” and “I’m doing just fine” are standard conversation clichĂ©s, and may not reflect the reality of how the cashier is really are.


17.         When things go awry, do your best to remain civil. The cashier not out to ruin your day. They are human beings like you, and are deserving of your absolute respect. casual

I hope this advice has been helpful. It the honest information you never knew you needed. Take it, and make a difference with every cashier you come in contact with. See how much better you feel about every purchase you make.



[i] The title of this post refers to the power of wealth especially how it dictates what practices associates practice in a retail setting.

[ii] Relaxed or insignificant conversation

Sunday, November 27, 2016

Unlimited Opportunities

The female co-worker that sits in the cubicle next to you at work (Leslie) just lost her father in a car accident last week. Leslie knows you have a relationship with God. At your afternoon break, you sense she wants to talk about spiritual matters in her life. What do you do?

The guy on your bowling team (Phil) has given many strong hints that he needs to talk to you about going back to church (because he wants to become reacquainted with the Heavenly Father). Should you take your friendship to a deeper level by having some food and a cup of coffee at a nearby Wendy’s for an intimate discussion on the topic?[i]

When they are available, we must all grab hold of opportunities to share with others about our belief in God. Colossians 4:2-5 (MSG) provides this truth:

“Pray diligently…that God will open doors for telling the [story] of Christ…Every time I open my mouth [I want to be] able to make Christ as plain as day to them. Use your heads as you work and live among [those around you]…Make the most of every opportunity.”

You may be bold in many areas of your life, but have you ever asked God for witnessing opportunities in your daily involvement with those around you? Pray that the Almighty will provide you clarity and courage to walk through the doors you need you need to in spreading the gospel. It’s impossible to regain a lost opportunity.

The chorus of this song shows the answer that Christians have to give out to a hurting world:

There are so many things that money can’t buy,
But it won’t buy peace of mind
No matter how hard you try.
Broken people need brand new lives.[ii]

If Christians wish to have an influence among unbelievers, they must live Christ-like (on-line and their daily life) to gain access to speak to them about their closest Friend.

“Don’t fool yourself into thinking that you are a listener when you are anything but, letting the [scripture] go in one ear and out the other. Act on what you hear. Those who hear and don’t act are like those who glance in the mirror, walk away, and two minutes later have no idea who they are, what they look like.”[iii]

When sharing your “God story” with others make the message interesting (and full of the truth they need to hear). The following scripture verse asks a lot of questions about your witness. (Can you answer any of them?)

“But how can people call for help if they don’t know who to trust? And how can they know who to trust if they haven’t heard of the One who can be trusted? And how can they hear if nobody tells them? And how is anyone going to tell them, unless someone is sent to do it?”[iv]

Read the passage below to find out what is important Heavenly Father. “God can and will use you if you are willing.”[v] How can you make this kind of service a reality in your life?

“…Love the Lord your God with all of your [passion, prayer,] and intelligence. This is the most important…on any list….There is a second:…Love others as well as you love yourself…Everything in God’s law…hangs from [these rules].[vi]



[i] Inspired by the sermon, “Carpe Diem: Seize the Opportunity,” Installment Three (final), Sunday, November 20, 2016,  Pastor Dave Jansen, CenterPoint Church Gahanna, Gahanna, OH


[ii] “Broken Up people”  Words and Music by John Daniels (performed by Evie Tornquist Karlsson)

[iii] James 1:22-24   All scripture is taken from The Message (unless otherwise noted).

[iv] Romans 10:14

[v]All for One: The Towns of Ohio Complete Trilogy, part two, chapter twenty-two, “Cotton Candy” (discussion point) by Robert Kinker

[vi] Matthew 22:37-40

Saturday, November 26, 2016

Uncommonly Good

During my annual physical, I spoke (small talk) with the nurse about the unique personality of my canine, Lola. From what I told her, she smiled and said, “What Lola wants; Lola gets.”
The 1955 song, “Whatever Lola Want,” (performed by many artists over the years) was completed by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross for the musical, Damn Yankees.

 No one could have ever imagined (over sixty-one years later) that my feisty mixed female Chihuahua (also named Lola) with the expressive eyes, bark, and paws were who the lyrics (below) made me think of instead of the assertive 1847 female, Lola Montez, that eventually had this lyrical piece named after a quote of hers.[i]

Could the name of your beloved pet (that consistently makes you smile) replace the name “Lola” in this song, and be completely accurate?[ii]

VERSE ONE
Whatever Lola wants, Lola gets
And little man, little Lola wants you
Make up your mind to have, no regrets
Recline yourself, resign yourself you're through

CHORUS
I always get, what I aim for
And your heart and soul, is what I came for.
Whatever Lola wants, Lola gets
Take off your coat, Don't you know you can't win
You're no exception to the rule,
I'm irrezeestable you fool, Give in
(give in, you'll never win)
Whatever Lola wants
Lola gets
CHORUS
TAG
Give in (give in, you'll never win)
Give in (give in, you'll never win)

I came across two quotes that definitely remind me of the loving side of my Chihuahua for me. (Who do these remind you of?)

1.    And then my soul saw you and kinda went “Oh, there you are. I’ve been looking for you all my life.”[iii]

2.   If you’re lucky… a [pet] will come into your life, steal your heart, and change everything.”[iv]

Lola’s most attractive (and endearing) quality is her assertiveness. Her assertiveness is evident when she wants affection (doggy kisses). She sneakily goes trash picking (in the kitchen). Lola incessantly barks to rally her resting Chihuahua brothers for a pee-pee break.


She enjoys getting an extra human meal if anyone in the home leaves a full (or empty) plate within range of her mouth. Lola gallops full-mode (and leaps) coming in from the outside. She takes seriously takes her duty adjusting herself into sleeping mode in my bed (anytime I rest).

Having Lola’s assertative (confidence) is a quality we can all benefit from.  Proverbs 3:25-25 (MSG) proclaims this:

“No need to panic over alarms (or surprises), or predictions that doomsday’s just around the corner...God will be right there with you. He’ll keep you safe and sound.”

We all need to enjoy life to its fullest. In the midst of all our living, remember that none of is ever alone with all the unexpected twists (and turns) that happen to us during our time here on Earth. No matter the outcome, the Heavenly Father is present to help us all move safely to other side of the challenge we face. 


Lola Montez, 1847



Lola Kinker, 2016



[i] The title of this post refers to one of the slogans of the Keebler Company (keebler.com). I can also mean surprisingly superior.


[ii] For more information on Lola, see the post, “She’s a Lady.”

[iii] Quote by ILoveMyChis.com

[iv] Quote by WoofPosts.com

Friday, November 25, 2016

Into the Bargain

Black Friday brings out almost as much crazy as a full moon. And with all the hype it generates, the day after Thanksgiving has practically become a national holiday of its own! So just for fun, we’ve categorized the seven types of Black Friday shoppers we all know and love. Which one (or two) are you?[i]

1.  The Traditionalist - It’s a family tradition to wake up at the crack of dawn, pile into the minivan, and camp out at your favorite retailer with a thermos full of hot coffee. While you’re freezing your tails off together, you chat, laugh and reminisce about that time you were almost killed by a runaway shopping cart. Ah, good times.

2.  The Sales Addict - Half-price is for suckers. As far as you’re concerned, if it’s not 75% off, it’s not on sale. Some people call you a cheapskate. Others call you a tightwad. You don’t care—you can underspend all those fools in your sleep.  And on Black Friday, you probably will.


3.  The Hunter - You know the store. You know the route. And you know the exact rack your red cashmere sweater is on because you’ve been stalking it for weeks. After you get what you want, you’re out of there. Leave no trace.

4.  The Bag-Holder - You couldn’t care less about shopping, but your battery-powered spouse dragged you along to hold all the bags. If you’re lucky, you’ll find a bench of fellow bag-holders watching the football game on their smart phones. If you’re not, you’ll have to fake food poisoning.


5.  The Browser - Life is good. You ramble through the racks without any real pressure—or any real plan. If you see an item that strikes you as a suitable gift, you buy it. If nothing catches your eye, oh well. Cash envelopes never go out of style.

6. The Rookie - Normally, you don’t participate in Black Friday, but you spotted a killer deal in the sales flyer and decide to give it a try. How bad could it be? After driving around the parking lot for half an hour, waiting in line to use the last working toilet, and then sit-standing in the checkout line for an eternity, you finally give up. No TV is worth all this.
7. The Conscientious Objector - Forget the mall. You’d rather shop later or shop online. Let someone else have all the “deals.”You’ll sit back and enjoy your free shipping and a nice, warm fireplace, thanks.

No matter which type of holiday shopper you are, there’s only one thing crazier than the Black Friday madness: shopping without a budget. Avoid this holiday headache by…paying for all your purchases with cash. Then, shop till you drop, or don’t. It’s up to you.[ii]



[i] This title refers to a great deal on a product (or service) to the buyer.

[ii] Adapted from the article, “7 Types of Black Friday Shoppers: Which One Are You?” By Dave Ramsey

Everything

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