Who is God really? How can understand Him and do we really want to understand Him? These are just a few questions raised as I read the first half of "The Shack" last night (well early this morning to be precise). God is too immense to totally, and why would want to grasp Him totally? Part of God being the awesome God that He is, is that He is too much to grasp. If I could know God as well as I know myself or my times tables, there wouldn't be much to worship. It is the fact that I am continually learning more about Him, growing closer to Him and gaining new insights that makes Him so much of wonderful, powerful, Almighty God.
Also, I find the Trinity idea to be confusing- we try to explain it in many different ways: the Godhead is 1, but with 3 personalities in the same way that a man can be: a son, dad and husband: 3 unique roles all in 1 person. But even that doesn't fully describe the Trinity. And as hard as it can be to describe it, it is necessary.
We are created in the image of God, and designed for relationship. If God didn't have a relationship with Himself, than neither could we have a relationship with Him, or with each other. Because we can only exhibit traits that God can have. Therefore the idea is important for life and relationships to exist. I'd never thought of that before I read this book.
Maybe I am pondering things more right now in light of the family tragedy. Tragedy and death tends to cause us to think and ponder and realize our own mortality. The only way you and I are going to escape death is for Rapture to happen first, and the likelihood is that we will have to die.
I'm not afraid of death, because I know that when I die I will begin my eternity with my Lover, Friend, Savior, Lord, God. That is beyond words exciting. But neither am I in a hurry to die either. There is so much more I want to accomplish here on Earth. I want to get married and have a child. I want to help women and children, I want to travel. I want to see my book published and selling in bookstores!
But more than all those combined, I want to become a more godly woman, a woman that is working to fall more in love with Christ each day, and living a life that makes Christianity infectious. I want to help people find Jesus and come to know Him as their savior, lover, friend as I have.
I want to be an encouragement and comfort to others. I want to show the world that Jesus is easy to know and love, because He first loved us. In that while we are still despicable and naughty, He knocks on the doors of our hearts and asks to come in and help us mend and be a little less despicable each day.
I want to have such a deep relationship with Christ that it overflows out of me. If I go too long without talking to Christ I want to feel bereft. I want Him to become my All and All, more than He is now. That is what I want out of life.
"I yearn for You o Lord. I cry out for You o Lord. My soul is hungry, my heart is thirsty for You. Come to me, and never let me leave. Let the Rock be always by my side, so that I may be a glory to You in all that I do. Create in me a pure, clean heart, a heart that is full of joy, because it is full of You. I love You and want to love You more. Amen."
(P.R.Turner)
Thursday, July 31, 2008
The Cost of it All
Wow! It is a sad day for my family as we work to understand and comes to terms with having to say good-bye to Tom. Tom died doing his job-flying a fighter jet in (to make a longer story not so much) a training mission. He is survived by all of us that love him including a wife and 3 children.
The past year I have had to really remind myself that I do love America and I do support her. Maybe I don't think that the administration did the best job of "selling" the need to invade Iraq, and maybe I think that more resources should be up in Afghanistan/Pakistan trying to route out OBL.
Here is the thing on Osama- it would be a victory for us and a good rallying point, but killings Osama will not end Al Qaeda. Al Qaeda unfortunately is larger than OBL. I wish I could come up with an answer to fighting terrorism, because it is evil, but the problem is millenia old and will not be solved in a month, or even a year. We here in America don't comprehend what is going on. These people are fighting for their religious beliefs, and for most of us that is as personal as it gets. They are fighting for the assurance that they will go to paradise when they die.
Islam is not a peaceful religion. Islam is worship and belief in a vengeful, non-loving deity. In Islam you have to do more "good" than "bad" so that your scale will get you to paradise. I feel sorry for people that are slaves to Allah. I am oh so thankful for the freedom I have in Christ. To know that no matter my God, the one true God loves me and I am going to Heaven. Not because of what I have done or could do, but because God loves me and Jesus made it possible. Christianity boils down to love, forgiveness and acceptance. The only ACT I have to do is to believe and accept. That is it!!!
I want to SHOUT my love for Christ. I also want to go and hug my family that is closer to Tom and tell them that Jesus is here and just waiting to hug us and to bring us comfort and peace. I want to let them know that as dark as the sky is now, the sun will shine again, because the SON is shining in glory.
I also want to let everyone I know that is in the military that I love you and that I urge you to pay attention and be safe. For those of us that have loved ones in the military there is a sense of pride for what they are doing and the love they have for their country, and we support you fully, but there is always that reminder that we can't always protect you. We have to just trust that God will bring you back to us. And if He doesn't, than there is a reason that He wanted you home with Him.
America isn't cheap. Our lifestyles and freedom are paid in blood, sweat and tears. As much as I may wish that things had gone differently, that the administration had "sold" the war better to the public, I wish even more that people would just get over it enough to see that our military needs our support. Lives are being lost and changed daily- here and overseas.
I want to end by saying THANKS to all current military persons and vets too. I love America and I thank you and yours for your patriotism, so that I can live in such a wonderful place. May we all work to see and praise God for blessing us with such a wonderful homeland!!!
The past year I have had to really remind myself that I do love America and I do support her. Maybe I don't think that the administration did the best job of "selling" the need to invade Iraq, and maybe I think that more resources should be up in Afghanistan/Pakistan trying to route out OBL.
Here is the thing on Osama- it would be a victory for us and a good rallying point, but killings Osama will not end Al Qaeda. Al Qaeda unfortunately is larger than OBL. I wish I could come up with an answer to fighting terrorism, because it is evil, but the problem is millenia old and will not be solved in a month, or even a year. We here in America don't comprehend what is going on. These people are fighting for their religious beliefs, and for most of us that is as personal as it gets. They are fighting for the assurance that they will go to paradise when they die.
Islam is not a peaceful religion. Islam is worship and belief in a vengeful, non-loving deity. In Islam you have to do more "good" than "bad" so that your scale will get you to paradise. I feel sorry for people that are slaves to Allah. I am oh so thankful for the freedom I have in Christ. To know that no matter my God, the one true God loves me and I am going to Heaven. Not because of what I have done or could do, but because God loves me and Jesus made it possible. Christianity boils down to love, forgiveness and acceptance. The only ACT I have to do is to believe and accept. That is it!!!
I want to SHOUT my love for Christ. I also want to go and hug my family that is closer to Tom and tell them that Jesus is here and just waiting to hug us and to bring us comfort and peace. I want to let them know that as dark as the sky is now, the sun will shine again, because the SON is shining in glory.
I also want to let everyone I know that is in the military that I love you and that I urge you to pay attention and be safe. For those of us that have loved ones in the military there is a sense of pride for what they are doing and the love they have for their country, and we support you fully, but there is always that reminder that we can't always protect you. We have to just trust that God will bring you back to us. And if He doesn't, than there is a reason that He wanted you home with Him.
America isn't cheap. Our lifestyles and freedom are paid in blood, sweat and tears. As much as I may wish that things had gone differently, that the administration had "sold" the war better to the public, I wish even more that people would just get over it enough to see that our military needs our support. Lives are being lost and changed daily- here and overseas.
I want to end by saying THANKS to all current military persons and vets too. I love America and I thank you and yours for your patriotism, so that I can live in such a wonderful place. May we all work to see and praise God for blessing us with such a wonderful homeland!!!
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
The Thompson Waffle
The Favre Saga continues. It is one huge mess, and the reason it is a mess is because of Packers general manager Ted Thompson. The Green Bay Packers are (and always will be my favorite team), but the GM is not my favorite person. He has lied, waffled and not looked out for the best interests of the team from the beginning.
Ted Thompson handpicked Aaron Rodgers a few years ago from the draft. Rodgers had a great college career and appears to be a great successor to Favre. I have no problem with Rodgers taking over. I do have a problem with the unfairness of what is going on, and the lack of care for the future and current season for the Packers.
The best way to settle this whole saga, and what should have been done in the beginning remains the same. The Packers are fine to be behind Rodgers, if they believe he is their man. They should have let Favre back, but said "Come on back, but you and Aaron will be competing for the starting position, and if he (fairly) wins than you will be on the bench." I mean come on, having Favre as your back-up, that is an ace in the hole!! But that didn't happen, because Thompson wants to protect his baby (Rodgers) and he knows that Rodgers would not win the starting position.
So Thompson lied this Spring about Favre being welcome back on the team. He lied about being worried about Favre's legacy. If Thompson really believed in Rodgers, really truely believed in Rodgers, and didn't just want to protect him and his choice to draft him, than a quick trade could have occurred.
The problem for Thompson is that he knows that a trade with the best future outcome for the Packers would be to MN or Chicago. Well that would mean that the Packers lose 2 games for sure this season, because Favre would crush them, and the Packers would record 2 loses to one of their arch rivals, and it would at the hands of their former QB and the new guy would get the loss. Thompson is putting all his eggs in the Rodgers basket.
This has been a case of gross mismanagment. A case of Thompson being an idiot to an extreme degree. I'd like to see him fired. All this should have been resolved in April with either a trade or with the understanding that Favre and Rodgers would compete for the position.
Time for Thompson to go and say good-bye to his job. His incompetence is staggering, and from a business stance he needs to be released. From a PR stance he needs to be released. From an ethical stance he needs to be released.
Ted Thompson handpicked Aaron Rodgers a few years ago from the draft. Rodgers had a great college career and appears to be a great successor to Favre. I have no problem with Rodgers taking over. I do have a problem with the unfairness of what is going on, and the lack of care for the future and current season for the Packers.
The best way to settle this whole saga, and what should have been done in the beginning remains the same. The Packers are fine to be behind Rodgers, if they believe he is their man. They should have let Favre back, but said "Come on back, but you and Aaron will be competing for the starting position, and if he (fairly) wins than you will be on the bench." I mean come on, having Favre as your back-up, that is an ace in the hole!! But that didn't happen, because Thompson wants to protect his baby (Rodgers) and he knows that Rodgers would not win the starting position.
So Thompson lied this Spring about Favre being welcome back on the team. He lied about being worried about Favre's legacy. If Thompson really believed in Rodgers, really truely believed in Rodgers, and didn't just want to protect him and his choice to draft him, than a quick trade could have occurred.
The problem for Thompson is that he knows that a trade with the best future outcome for the Packers would be to MN or Chicago. Well that would mean that the Packers lose 2 games for sure this season, because Favre would crush them, and the Packers would record 2 loses to one of their arch rivals, and it would at the hands of their former QB and the new guy would get the loss. Thompson is putting all his eggs in the Rodgers basket.
This has been a case of gross mismanagment. A case of Thompson being an idiot to an extreme degree. I'd like to see him fired. All this should have been resolved in April with either a trade or with the understanding that Favre and Rodgers would compete for the position.
Time for Thompson to go and say good-bye to his job. His incompetence is staggering, and from a business stance he needs to be released. From a PR stance he needs to be released. From an ethical stance he needs to be released.
Monday, July 28, 2008
I Love Jesus
I just read an article by my pastor (Jonathan Falwell) talking about how in America we have moved and become a culture that at the same time wants to remove any public right to revere Christ while at the same time wanting to reserve the right ridiculing Him.
We have become a nation that celebrates the need to respect all cults, yet silences Christ. Yet, Christ will not be silenced. The Bible tells us that if we won't praise Him, than the rocks and trees will cry out in praise of their Maker. One way or another God WILL get the glory.
Why are we as Christians so willing to let this happen? What are we so afraid of in this country? In our churches, Bible studies and e-mails we talk about the dwindling respect for Christ, but if we really cared about the direction the country was going in, we would be up in arms over things like Hamlet 2, and the other shows that are mocking Christ. If we really cared, cared enough to do something, then there would still be courthouse displays of the 10 Commandments (which the Jews claim as well as Christians) and kids would feel safer praying to Christ at school.
Why are we so apathetic in this country? Have we really become this spoiled!?! I mean really? Are we so afraid of a little ridicule that we sit at home and whine about the state our country is in? Well DUH!!!!!!!
There are thousands and probably a few million people in America that are honestly born-again. We have numbers, not the numbers that we should, but we are not a tiny band huddling in some hovel somewhere. We need to speak out, to let the nation know that God will not be mocked. It is to their (and our's as well) detriment.
Remember we are working toward Heaven, toward earning the "Well Done" from our Savior. How awful will it be to get to Heaven, and not get to hear God say "well done my good and faithful servant" all because we were afraid someone would make fun of us. We are not going to be killed for speaking the truth here in America.
Their are souls to reach. People that are going to go to HELL, all because we are afraid to share the truth with them. That sucks big time. Our children are growing up in a society where they are not safe, where we put our lives in jeopardy to board a plane. Partly because we have allowed society to get to a point where terrorism has flourished.
Yes, part of the problem is sin, and we can't prevent that. But, we can change how we react, and we can change our apathy into action. We need to get out there. To let the world know that God will not be mocked without consequences. We need to show the world the love that God is, and the joy that comes from worshiping Him. The world needs a wake-up call.
The ridicule of Christ should anger us beyond belief. That is our Savior, the Jesus that experienced life for 33 years, was abandoned by His friends, flogged, crucified and lost contact with God (for a time). The Jesus that on the 3rd rose and is reigning in Heaven. That is our LOVER, FRIEND, COUNSELOR, SAVIOR the world is being allowed to mock, deny and try to silence.
God expects us to do something about it. We are His ambassadors, imitators of Him. We are called to be like Christ in every way. So when they mock Him, they mock us. Are we really going to take that sitting down? Are we??? I for one and sick of it, and I plan to do something about it.
"Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh, will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good..." (Gal. 6:7-9a)
We have become a nation that celebrates the need to respect all cults, yet silences Christ. Yet, Christ will not be silenced. The Bible tells us that if we won't praise Him, than the rocks and trees will cry out in praise of their Maker. One way or another God WILL get the glory.
Why are we as Christians so willing to let this happen? What are we so afraid of in this country? In our churches, Bible studies and e-mails we talk about the dwindling respect for Christ, but if we really cared about the direction the country was going in, we would be up in arms over things like Hamlet 2, and the other shows that are mocking Christ. If we really cared, cared enough to do something, then there would still be courthouse displays of the 10 Commandments (which the Jews claim as well as Christians) and kids would feel safer praying to Christ at school.
Why are we so apathetic in this country? Have we really become this spoiled!?! I mean really? Are we so afraid of a little ridicule that we sit at home and whine about the state our country is in? Well DUH!!!!!!!
There are thousands and probably a few million people in America that are honestly born-again. We have numbers, not the numbers that we should, but we are not a tiny band huddling in some hovel somewhere. We need to speak out, to let the nation know that God will not be mocked. It is to their (and our's as well) detriment.
Remember we are working toward Heaven, toward earning the "Well Done" from our Savior. How awful will it be to get to Heaven, and not get to hear God say "well done my good and faithful servant" all because we were afraid someone would make fun of us. We are not going to be killed for speaking the truth here in America.
Their are souls to reach. People that are going to go to HELL, all because we are afraid to share the truth with them. That sucks big time. Our children are growing up in a society where they are not safe, where we put our lives in jeopardy to board a plane. Partly because we have allowed society to get to a point where terrorism has flourished.
Yes, part of the problem is sin, and we can't prevent that. But, we can change how we react, and we can change our apathy into action. We need to get out there. To let the world know that God will not be mocked without consequences. We need to show the world the love that God is, and the joy that comes from worshiping Him. The world needs a wake-up call.
The ridicule of Christ should anger us beyond belief. That is our Savior, the Jesus that experienced life for 33 years, was abandoned by His friends, flogged, crucified and lost contact with God (for a time). The Jesus that on the 3rd rose and is reigning in Heaven. That is our LOVER, FRIEND, COUNSELOR, SAVIOR the world is being allowed to mock, deny and try to silence.
God expects us to do something about it. We are His ambassadors, imitators of Him. We are called to be like Christ in every way. So when they mock Him, they mock us. Are we really going to take that sitting down? Are we??? I for one and sick of it, and I plan to do something about it.
"Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh, will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good..." (Gal. 6:7-9a)
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Thinking...Again
Life in these United States is never boring. Right now my mind is football. Where else would it be for us cheese heads?!?
I'm still double minded on the whole Favre saga. I love watching him play, and I love the Packers. I think it is like the Joe Montana issue, but more so. Of course I'd love to see him put on his green and gold #4 for one more season and watch him lead the Pack to another Super Bowl win. Yet, I think if he wants to play than he should play, and if the Packer management is dumb enough to bench him, than he should fight to go to another team. It will be VERY hard to see him play for another team, but he is good enough that he deserves a starting a position. Still, it might be easier for me to move on and rally behind Rodgers 100% if Favre would stay retired. Right now it is just a mess and however it gets worked out is not going to be a perfect situation for everyone.
It was wonderful having my parents here. They brought my nephew with them, and that was a total blast and a half! Seeing them, showing Dad around my home, going down to NC to visit my Raleigh and Olin family, bonding with Carl. It all was a blast, but for those of you that know and love me, you can imagine that Carl was the highlight!
He is just such a sweet, creative, loving, fun, energetic 3.5 year old. I can't help but want to shower him with love all day long!
I just saw Prince Caspian yesterday, and I think the visit with my family was a lot like how Susan felt about being back in Narnia. It was great, but in the back of your mind you are cognisent of the fact that it isn't going to last forever and that casts a pall over the enjoyment. You try not to let it, but the thought still creeps in once in awhile.
So a lot of you may ask, if I put all my thoughts up here, why not talk about boys and what is going on in that area of my life. Well, the truth is when I get engaged I will tell you, before then if you want to know, e-mail me! This ensures that I get some e-mail in my life!!! =-)
I don't know why, but this summer I have been thinking a lot about what it means to be an American Christian in the 21st century. It is a great honor, and a hard duty as well. We live in a society that values personal freedom to believe as we want, and to choose to live in whatever manner we want, and other people better not tread on that freedom and shove their belief onto us. That makes evangelism tricky. Because we see the hurt that is going on, the fear of the future (in light of 9/11) and the need for Jesus, yet how to do you reach people that seemingly don't want to be reached, that want to live and let live? How do you show them that a decision to accept or reject Christ is the most important decision they will ever make?
I think that is why I'm so interested in apologetics. I think that we don't reach the world by shoving what we believe down their throats, but by rationally, intelligently and through love show them the errors and the lack of logic, reason and believability in what they believe. We need to show the world the holes in their belief systems. The holes that are so big a giant slips through.
I also think that it is imperative that Christians spend more time on their knees in prayer and that we learn to get along with each other. We are all united in our salvation- be it Baptist, Lutheran, United Methodist, Episcopal, or Pentacostal. We all have the same salvation, and we need to learn to be 1 in the Spirit. There is nothing that is a bigger turn off than dissension among the ranks, and the world sees our in fighting.
The world sees that we are no different than they are. Why be a Christian if it doesn't make a difference in lifestyle? What are really offering the world that is different than what we SHOULD be offering them? The world is starving for love, acceptance, security and a family. God offers that and much much more. Shouldn't we as Christians, as people called to be imitators of our God also offer the same?
Obama shouldn't be able to gain such a following, our prayer warriors should be on their knees day and night praying and then getting out there and educating the world on what he is really all about. We should have such a force behind us that good, strong Christians like Huckabee should be electable.
The military of America. So well trained and dedicated. And right now, so under appreciated. This war on terror, especially in Iraq is so decisive that we let our feelings about the justness of the war cloud our respect and gratitude and support for the men and women fighting the war, and training to go over there and fight for us. Our military should be made up of men and women that are celebrities, because what they are doing day in and day out and is worthy of acclaim.
Maybe going over like we did wasn't the best move. I don't know, I am not privy to all the classified intelligence, and neither are most of you. But I do know that we are doing a lot of good over in Iraq, and that the things are men and women in uniform are accomplishing are awesome, and that the liberal news people do not cover that. We hear the bad stuff- the numbers dead/injured, the bombings, etc. We don't hear about the schools started, the jobs offered, the homes/business repaired, all the advances going on. The wmd's that have been found (and there have been some). So next time you see a person in uniform, be thankful. Be thankful that we have men and women volunteering to do the unpopular and dangerous jobs. Because if we had to go back to the days of the draft our military would not be as well trained as it is today, and the dead/injured/MIA numbers would be a lot higher. We need to put aside our political views and start thinking about the people behind the numbers, and just what the effects of the news blurbs really mean.
Lastly I want to say that if you get a chance and need a show that helps you to just smile, watch Psych on USA network on Friday nights (10/9 central). It is about this guy (Shawn) who pretends to be a psychic to help the police solve crimes. It is smart, witty, fun, hallarious, just wonderful. It is in its 3rd season, and I love it!
Remember, that it is important for us to take time each day to just be with God. We don't always need to have something to say, because He reads what is on our hearts, but we just need to be with Him. Take time to fill up on the Holy Spirit, it is better for you than water or air, more refreshing than sleep. Take time to just be.
My love to all my brothers and sisters in Christ, and all my friends!
-JLK-
I'm still double minded on the whole Favre saga. I love watching him play, and I love the Packers. I think it is like the Joe Montana issue, but more so. Of course I'd love to see him put on his green and gold #4 for one more season and watch him lead the Pack to another Super Bowl win. Yet, I think if he wants to play than he should play, and if the Packer management is dumb enough to bench him, than he should fight to go to another team. It will be VERY hard to see him play for another team, but he is good enough that he deserves a starting a position. Still, it might be easier for me to move on and rally behind Rodgers 100% if Favre would stay retired. Right now it is just a mess and however it gets worked out is not going to be a perfect situation for everyone.
It was wonderful having my parents here. They brought my nephew with them, and that was a total blast and a half! Seeing them, showing Dad around my home, going down to NC to visit my Raleigh and Olin family, bonding with Carl. It all was a blast, but for those of you that know and love me, you can imagine that Carl was the highlight!
He is just such a sweet, creative, loving, fun, energetic 3.5 year old. I can't help but want to shower him with love all day long!
I just saw Prince Caspian yesterday, and I think the visit with my family was a lot like how Susan felt about being back in Narnia. It was great, but in the back of your mind you are cognisent of the fact that it isn't going to last forever and that casts a pall over the enjoyment. You try not to let it, but the thought still creeps in once in awhile.
So a lot of you may ask, if I put all my thoughts up here, why not talk about boys and what is going on in that area of my life. Well, the truth is when I get engaged I will tell you, before then if you want to know, e-mail me! This ensures that I get some e-mail in my life!!! =-)
I don't know why, but this summer I have been thinking a lot about what it means to be an American Christian in the 21st century. It is a great honor, and a hard duty as well. We live in a society that values personal freedom to believe as we want, and to choose to live in whatever manner we want, and other people better not tread on that freedom and shove their belief onto us. That makes evangelism tricky. Because we see the hurt that is going on, the fear of the future (in light of 9/11) and the need for Jesus, yet how to do you reach people that seemingly don't want to be reached, that want to live and let live? How do you show them that a decision to accept or reject Christ is the most important decision they will ever make?
I think that is why I'm so interested in apologetics. I think that we don't reach the world by shoving what we believe down their throats, but by rationally, intelligently and through love show them the errors and the lack of logic, reason and believability in what they believe. We need to show the world the holes in their belief systems. The holes that are so big a giant slips through.
I also think that it is imperative that Christians spend more time on their knees in prayer and that we learn to get along with each other. We are all united in our salvation- be it Baptist, Lutheran, United Methodist, Episcopal, or Pentacostal. We all have the same salvation, and we need to learn to be 1 in the Spirit. There is nothing that is a bigger turn off than dissension among the ranks, and the world sees our in fighting.
The world sees that we are no different than they are. Why be a Christian if it doesn't make a difference in lifestyle? What are really offering the world that is different than what we SHOULD be offering them? The world is starving for love, acceptance, security and a family. God offers that and much much more. Shouldn't we as Christians, as people called to be imitators of our God also offer the same?
Obama shouldn't be able to gain such a following, our prayer warriors should be on their knees day and night praying and then getting out there and educating the world on what he is really all about. We should have such a force behind us that good, strong Christians like Huckabee should be electable.
The military of America. So well trained and dedicated. And right now, so under appreciated. This war on terror, especially in Iraq is so decisive that we let our feelings about the justness of the war cloud our respect and gratitude and support for the men and women fighting the war, and training to go over there and fight for us. Our military should be made up of men and women that are celebrities, because what they are doing day in and day out and is worthy of acclaim.
Maybe going over like we did wasn't the best move. I don't know, I am not privy to all the classified intelligence, and neither are most of you. But I do know that we are doing a lot of good over in Iraq, and that the things are men and women in uniform are accomplishing are awesome, and that the liberal news people do not cover that. We hear the bad stuff- the numbers dead/injured, the bombings, etc. We don't hear about the schools started, the jobs offered, the homes/business repaired, all the advances going on. The wmd's that have been found (and there have been some). So next time you see a person in uniform, be thankful. Be thankful that we have men and women volunteering to do the unpopular and dangerous jobs. Because if we had to go back to the days of the draft our military would not be as well trained as it is today, and the dead/injured/MIA numbers would be a lot higher. We need to put aside our political views and start thinking about the people behind the numbers, and just what the effects of the news blurbs really mean.
Lastly I want to say that if you get a chance and need a show that helps you to just smile, watch Psych on USA network on Friday nights (10/9 central). It is about this guy (Shawn) who pretends to be a psychic to help the police solve crimes. It is smart, witty, fun, hallarious, just wonderful. It is in its 3rd season, and I love it!
Remember, that it is important for us to take time each day to just be with God. We don't always need to have something to say, because He reads what is on our hearts, but we just need to be with Him. Take time to fill up on the Holy Spirit, it is better for you than water or air, more refreshing than sleep. Take time to just be.
My love to all my brothers and sisters in Christ, and all my friends!
-JLK-
Thursday, July 17, 2008
eBay
One thing I have learned in life that for many things I am somewhat behind the times. Last night I was perusing the world wide web and I found myself on eBay of all places, well I decided to look and see if anyone was selling an ARC copy of the newest Vicky Bliss novel by Elizabeth Peters. The title is "Laughter of the Dead Kings" and is reported to be the last VB novel Mrs. Peters plans to write. Not only that, but ARC (advance readers copy) books are generally more valuable because there are so few of them (comparatively). As luck would have it, there was a copy in my price range, I was shocked! So I bid on it! Bidding in on Monday night. I'm not going any higher than what I have right now, so we will see.
Here is the thing... this book is the first eBay item I have ever bid on! I know, I know, I'm a little behind the times. I purchased one other item on eBay in the past, but that was a Buy Now item. So this is exciting. It I win that will be cool, and it will actually be cheaper than waiting for the book to come out and buying it at B&N (even with shipping)! If I don't win, hey at least I can say I've used eBay now!
I will keep you posted! Till then have a marvelous day.
Here is the thing... this book is the first eBay item I have ever bid on! I know, I know, I'm a little behind the times. I purchased one other item on eBay in the past, but that was a Buy Now item. So this is exciting. It I win that will be cool, and it will actually be cheaper than waiting for the book to come out and buying it at B&N (even with shipping)! If I don't win, hey at least I can say I've used eBay now!
I will keep you posted! Till then have a marvelous day.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Waiting... I'm not Good at it!
So one thing I am learning in the past 7 days is that I am not good at waiting! Most people already know that, especially if they see me around presents. Even if I buy the gift and wrap it myself, I'm not good at waiting for people to unwrap it, presents are meant to be unwrapped! I'm like a little kid, I have no patience for waiting to open my gifts, or to wait for others to open what I give them! For me the enjoyment comes from the act of opening it...which means I'm just as happy finding a new hairbrush in a wrapped box as I am finding a diamond ring! Ok, maybe I will be more excited to get my engagement ring when the time comes, but really, I just love to open stuff!
So now you know you can just wrap me an empty box for Christmas! But, that is not the only way that I lack patience. I don't like to wait to see people. Like, this week seems to be going at a snail's pace because I'm excited to see my parents. To show my Dad around my home for the first time, and get to cook them dinner, to go to Appomattox and Nelson with Mom. As slow as this week is progressing, once they get here time will speed up.
Not only that, but my friend is off doing his military stuff and I don't get to talk to him for a while longer, and waiting for him to get back so I can hear how it all went and this means for the future is agonizing. I pray for him daily and know that he is off doing what he loves and is good at doing, but still the lack of communication is not much fun on my end! It will be nice when he gets back.
One thing I do have patience for is kids. I love to be around kids, and help them learn and grow. Which is why I have a degree in education. Yet, as much as I love to teach, I don't like being what I have to teach, which is partly why I'm not teaching right now. I know what I think students should learn, and the government disagrees with me, which is where they are wrong!
That and I feel like the Lord is calling me to do His work as counselor. Unfortunately I have experiences that help me relate to women and children and because of those experiences I have a NEED to help them. I took a long journey to recovery and I want to help others hasten their journey to emotional health.
Life is about learning from mistakes, not only personal ones, but if we can learn from being around others, it saves us a whole lot of heartache.
So tonight I am blogging as I WAIT for "On the Record" to come on so I can watch the conclusion of the Brett Favre interview. Once again, I find myself waiting. I think I spend most of my life waiting for something. Of course we are all to be eagerly waiting on the Lord's return! Boy that will be a day!
Tonight I will use this time to try and grow some more patience. May you find the things you have to wait for to be that much sweeter because of your patience.
-Goodnight-
So now you know you can just wrap me an empty box for Christmas! But, that is not the only way that I lack patience. I don't like to wait to see people. Like, this week seems to be going at a snail's pace because I'm excited to see my parents. To show my Dad around my home for the first time, and get to cook them dinner, to go to Appomattox and Nelson with Mom. As slow as this week is progressing, once they get here time will speed up.
Not only that, but my friend is off doing his military stuff and I don't get to talk to him for a while longer, and waiting for him to get back so I can hear how it all went and this means for the future is agonizing. I pray for him daily and know that he is off doing what he loves and is good at doing, but still the lack of communication is not much fun on my end! It will be nice when he gets back.
One thing I do have patience for is kids. I love to be around kids, and help them learn and grow. Which is why I have a degree in education. Yet, as much as I love to teach, I don't like being what I have to teach, which is partly why I'm not teaching right now. I know what I think students should learn, and the government disagrees with me, which is where they are wrong!
That and I feel like the Lord is calling me to do His work as counselor. Unfortunately I have experiences that help me relate to women and children and because of those experiences I have a NEED to help them. I took a long journey to recovery and I want to help others hasten their journey to emotional health.
Life is about learning from mistakes, not only personal ones, but if we can learn from being around others, it saves us a whole lot of heartache.
So tonight I am blogging as I WAIT for "On the Record" to come on so I can watch the conclusion of the Brett Favre interview. Once again, I find myself waiting. I think I spend most of my life waiting for something. Of course we are all to be eagerly waiting on the Lord's return! Boy that will be a day!
Tonight I will use this time to try and grow some more patience. May you find the things you have to wait for to be that much sweeter because of your patience.
-Goodnight-
Saturday, July 12, 2008
L.I.F.E.
LIFE. One word with many meanings. Such a simple word, yet living it is anything but simple.
So much is going on in my life right now. A lot of it is exciting and wonderful, and other parts of it are not so wonderful, yet for all that is that makes up my life, I have to say that I could do worse, much worse.
One thing I have learned, and continue to experience that have an even temper is helpful. Being able to remain calm in a crisis makes the crisis not quite so bad. There is nothing like letting our emotions get in the way and escalate the problem.
Also learning to take joy and celebrate even the little things is good. Making the little things even more important is what helps me remain planted during the hard times. It is the hard times, the crisises in life when we really notice the little things. For instance I can't count how many times I have heard a certain soldier state that one of his greatest pleasures while over serving in Iraq was to watch the sun rise or set and see the magnificent painting God gave him twice a day.
The sun moving across the sky. So simple, and so everyday. Yet, not. In Iraq where death is almost a daily thing and danger lurks in more than just the corners. Where bugs, sand and heat and the overwhelming task one is called to do. Iraq is a hard place to be for our soldiers (same with Afghanistan). Yet, even there a person can find pleasure.
I think that is part of what being a Christian is all about. Seeing God in everything and during every circumstance. God is NOT hidden, HE is everywhere and doing amazing things for us each day.
When I am down I remember the view from atop Steamboat Point in the BigHorns. That is probably my favorite place in the world. Up there, gazing upon the valley where I grew up I can get a better perspective on things. We are each just individuals. 150 years from now I will probably not be in the history text books. My picture won't adorn the walls of every classroom, but that doesn't matter.
Life is not about gaining eternal, earthly fame. Life is about living honestly, obediently and in love. Love for God, but also for others. If you do that, you may go down as a celebrity, but you will impact countless lives. If you are walking for Christ and modeling Christ, you will be able to handle what comes your way with grace and dignity.
What you are given you will be able to deal with, because you won't be doing it alone. Life is not meant to be lived alone. We are designed to rely on the Creator, the Lord for help. Not only does HE help us deal with the day to day stuff, but HE gives us family, friends and companions to be there for us.
Life can be difficult, crazy, confusing, weird, tough, wonderful, amazing, awe-inspiring, joyful and full. But without Christ as your center it is lived in vain and it is headed down the wrong track. Each day you live without Christ is another weave in the handbasket. So why don't you put that basket down and start building your home in Glory??? Life is so much better with that as the goal. I promise! But don't trust me, try and it and you'll see that God is honest.
So much is going on in my life right now. A lot of it is exciting and wonderful, and other parts of it are not so wonderful, yet for all that is that makes up my life, I have to say that I could do worse, much worse.
One thing I have learned, and continue to experience that have an even temper is helpful. Being able to remain calm in a crisis makes the crisis not quite so bad. There is nothing like letting our emotions get in the way and escalate the problem.
Also learning to take joy and celebrate even the little things is good. Making the little things even more important is what helps me remain planted during the hard times. It is the hard times, the crisises in life when we really notice the little things. For instance I can't count how many times I have heard a certain soldier state that one of his greatest pleasures while over serving in Iraq was to watch the sun rise or set and see the magnificent painting God gave him twice a day.
The sun moving across the sky. So simple, and so everyday. Yet, not. In Iraq where death is almost a daily thing and danger lurks in more than just the corners. Where bugs, sand and heat and the overwhelming task one is called to do. Iraq is a hard place to be for our soldiers (same with Afghanistan). Yet, even there a person can find pleasure.
I think that is part of what being a Christian is all about. Seeing God in everything and during every circumstance. God is NOT hidden, HE is everywhere and doing amazing things for us each day.
When I am down I remember the view from atop Steamboat Point in the BigHorns. That is probably my favorite place in the world. Up there, gazing upon the valley where I grew up I can get a better perspective on things. We are each just individuals. 150 years from now I will probably not be in the history text books. My picture won't adorn the walls of every classroom, but that doesn't matter.
Life is not about gaining eternal, earthly fame. Life is about living honestly, obediently and in love. Love for God, but also for others. If you do that, you may go down as a celebrity, but you will impact countless lives. If you are walking for Christ and modeling Christ, you will be able to handle what comes your way with grace and dignity.
What you are given you will be able to deal with, because you won't be doing it alone. Life is not meant to be lived alone. We are designed to rely on the Creator, the Lord for help. Not only does HE help us deal with the day to day stuff, but HE gives us family, friends and companions to be there for us.
Life can be difficult, crazy, confusing, weird, tough, wonderful, amazing, awe-inspiring, joyful and full. But without Christ as your center it is lived in vain and it is headed down the wrong track. Each day you live without Christ is another weave in the handbasket. So why don't you put that basket down and start building your home in Glory??? Life is so much better with that as the goal. I promise! But don't trust me, try and it and you'll see that God is honest.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
July 10 Thoughts
If I was in Sheridan right now I would be preparing to attend the events of the weekend, namely the rodeo parade which includes a pancake breakfast, bed races and grilled lunch. Then there is the rodeo and the street dancing! Rodeo week in Sheridan is a fun time, there are tourists galore and so much to do. People are generally in a more party frame of mind. Rodeo week marks the middle of summer for me. Even if I don't always attend all the events, I love the atmosphere of the week, and seeing friends from out of town.
This year however I am at home in Lynchburg. Right now I am praying about a job interview to work at a bookstore-right up my alley for the next year! Hopefully I will do well in the interview and be offered the job. I need it and I want this job, so it is in the Lord's hands.
The Real Paige Turner is in the editing process right now, and I am sufficiently satisfied with it I will send it off to a slew of literary agents to hopefully find one that will represent it to publishers and begin the publication process. This is when things can get discouraging. Finding an agent that will represent your book can take years and you can receive a box full of rejection letters. I am of course praying that it doesn't take years, merely months for me- so that I can get this book on shelves and let the Lord use it to minister to others and hopefully lead people to Him.
I'm not trying to publish this book to gain fame or millions (though I would love to be able to pay my parents back and maybe as a thank you send them to Australia for a vacation- I would pay for round trip tickets...I think...! No, no I would!). My desire for this book is to help other women see that life doesn't end when we are abused. Dealing with abuse is not easy or comfortable. A guy who takes out his anger, frustration, or just wants to exert power by physically or emotionally harming a woman is a monster. That said, we can overcome it and go on to have joyful and fulfilling lives. We don't ask to be abused, but we do have to take what happens and deal with it. Surviving is our choice. I want this book to show women that the hard road is the best road ultimately. Choosing to depend on the Lord is the best choice a person could ever make, regardless of their background.
I was have a chat a couple of days ago with another woman and we talked about how unworthy we feel to pray for ourselves. It is easy to pray for the people I love: my family, friends, church family, neighbors and former co-workers. It is harder for me to feel worthy to pray for myself. I know me, I know how sinful I am, how much I fail to live Biblically. Because I know me so well I know I am not worthy to talk to holy God and ask Him for anything.
For the first I think I finally understand that of course I'm not worthy. I'm a sinful human, but the story does not end there. I've been a Christian for most of my life, and since junior year of college I've been trying to follow Him and be the best Christian I can be. But even that struggle to be "all I can be" doesn't make me worthy. The only thing that makes it possible and ok for me to call on holy God is His Son, Jesus. I can approach the throne and ask for help on my behalf because Jesus died for me.
Here is the Christian story: God created the universe some time in the past. On the earth He created this paradise that makes Hawaii look blah. This paradise of a garden was called Eden. God placed the first 2 humans in Eden. Adam and Eve, one male and one female. These 2 people lived without sin and were thus worthy to walk and commune with God in Eden. God did not want robots, God is loving and doesn't need love but wants love in return. So in Eden God placed a single tree that grew good fruit. The garden was already full of a plethora of wonderful foods to eat. That is not what the special tree represented. The tree represented choice.
Everyday Adam and Eve had the choice: would they keep on eating the myraid of wonderful things that were always within reach, or would they go to the one tree that God had said "don't eat this"? Well for a long time (how long is irrelevent) Adam and Eve chose to obey God. It wasn't a hard choice at all.
Well in comes Satan. Satan was originally a high angel in Heaven, till He got the bright idea that he was better than God and could replace God. Well they only way a person can do that, is if they are God, and Satan was not God. Satan is a politician and he convinced numerous fellow angels to side with him and mount an attack to dethrone God. Suffice it to say the attack failed miserably. Not only did Satan and his minions fail, but they were cast out of Heaven and into Hell for eternity. Hell was to be their new home. But as non earth beings they have the ability to roam earth for now. In the future that will not be the case. Well, misery loves company and Hell is the ultimate in miserable, having his fellow fallen angels is not enough for Satan, he wants to take as many humans as possible.
So Satan sees a chance in the Garden to do just that. He comes to Eve one day and starts a conversation. He plays on Eve's nature and her curiosity. He makes the choice tree sound so good that it is irresistable. Adam is there (what warm blooded male would be far from his gorgeous and naked bride?) and does nothing to remind Eve what God has said. Eve makes the choice to give in and grabs a piece of choice tree fruit. She eats and it is good, she shares with her husband and he too enjoys it. Of course it was good, for all that God creates is good.
Well now God sees (He knew it would happen) that Adam and Eve chose to disobey Him. They gave into the master politician. Things had to change. God must be obeyed, He is holy and the people that created in His image must also be holy and obedient. Many consequences came from giving in to choice.
Does this make God mean or somehow evil? No I think that it shows His love even more. Read on.
First of all the people were cast out of Eden. No longer would the earth be full services for humans, we now have to work to get what we want from her. Second came pain and sorrow. As Newton discovered "everything has an equal and opposite reaction". It always did, even in Eden, but before the fruit from the choice tree, the actions produced good reactions.
Then of course came death. Not right away, but it entered the picture. Death was the verdict for all people, because now that we had choices to make, we all make bad ones and the wages of the bad choices or sin is death. No ifs ands or buts. Across the board. If you sin you are condemned to death.
Then, worse of all came a sever in the relationship with God. No longer are we perfect creatures that can walk and talk with God and look upon Him. We are sinful creatures. For thousands of years blood sacrifices of animals were used to partially restore our relationship with the Creator. But God saw that it wasn't good. Something had to be done that would once and for all be a sacrifice. Well, the only thing perfect enough to mend the broken relationship was a perfect human sacrificing Himself. Well, humans aren't perfect. Only God is perfect, so He came down in the form of a human (called kenosis) and lived perfectly and when He was about 33 years old Jesus was turned over to the government: he was tortured, abandoned and crucified.
Jesus was fully God and fully man. Because He was God in human form, His willing death was the ultimate sacrifice. Jesus died so that all of us have choice again. No longer are we slaves to sin and bound for Hell. Adam and Eve chose to go against God. But because Jesus willing died and rose from death and defeated the death, we now can chose Heaven. Our path from birth is Hell, but God does not want any one to go to Hell, so we now have the choice of Heaven. All we have to do is believe in Jesus' sacrifice and chose to love and serve Him.
Jesus is a kind person to serve. He is loving. He wants us. He is a wonderful God to serve. He wants to make our lives easier. He was here, He experienced life and now He is offering not only Heaven but to help us through this life.
Chosing Him does not automatically take away our bent to sin. We still have to go through this life and all the ups and down. And we still die, but it is what happens at death that matters. If we chose Christ than we KNOW without a shadow of a doubt that no matter what we are going to Heaven. Our spot is reserved. If we chose to not accept Christ's gift than we know that no matter what we are going to Hell. Our spot is reserved.
Our lives here need to reflect our choice. If we chose Christ than we should live as ambassadors of Him and do everything we can to show others how wonderful the choice is. Life is not going to be easy, but it is wonderful if we let it, and if we let Him guide us. God delights in giving His children the desires of our hearts. God is a doting Father and He will be there along the way. He may not calm the storm, but He will calm us during the storm.
History bears the evidence that Christians are not perfect people. We screw up just as much as others do. We get our facts wrong, and sometimes terribly wrong. The crusades, the witch trials, slavery all those events show that Christians are not perfect people. Christians may not be perfect, but they are forgiven. As Christians we should strive to live Biblical lives and be good ambassadors so that others will look at us and want what we have, and then we share it. The more we share Christ and His love with others the more we have to share!
Christianity is not a religion, it is a way of life, it is the one true account of what life is like from before the world began to a time in the future when there will be a new earth. Christianity is not a bunch of "do this" or "don't do that" and earn your way to paradise. Christianity is about a relationship with God. We live a certain to bear out our faith and love. We are not saved by works, but we do works to show our salvation. The works are the evidence.
How comforting to know that I'm saved no matter what! That is what Christianity is all about. None of us are worthy on own to approach God, but because of Christ we get to anyway. Because of Christ I can pray about anything and everything for others as well as myself. How marvelous!
Sorry that this is so long today, but I just had to get all my thoughts out there! I love y'all. Happy Thursday!
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Espanol o Ingles?
Right now I'm on the fence with this issue, which isn't normal for me. Normally I have pretty strong opinions, especially on political issues! This is an e-mail about the latest vote to make English our official language. It is interesting to say the least.
There are many things that I am passionate about: supporting our military, pro-life issues, improving the economy, fixing the education system in America (NCLB just makes my blood boil, but we do need to overhaul education) and religious rights for everyone. For me, English as the national language is not one of them.
Here is why...I don't care what language we speak. Spanish is just as good a language as English, in fact I find it to be more expressive sometimes, and it is certainly an easier language to learn. I would not want to have to learn English as 2nd language. This is a terrible language-we break our rules more often than not, and it isn't all that expressive or beautiful sounding. On the other hand, I am quite fluent in English, so it has that going for it! Even if English is not declared the national language I have a hunch that most people will still use it, and it will continue to remain a predominate language. It is the language of our founding- all our precious documents are in English, so I don't think that the language is going to die anytime soon. My kids and grandkids will still have to learn the language, and if they have to learn Spanish or something else as well, that is all well and good because that just means even more people can understand them as they share the love of Christ.
So, for once in my life I have found an issue that I'm not that worried about. If English is declared the national language, than cool. But if it isn't, it is just a language, just words. The bigger issue is not what language we are speaking in, but what we are saying- the content. I can be just as passionate in my support and thankfulness to everyone who has ever served in the military, and their families, and I can be just as patriotic an American, and just as crazy a Cheesehead in Spanish, Korean, Mandarin, Italian, Russian, Koine Greek (well maybe not, we all know how well I did with that...) or Pig Latin. The vessel is not the issue for me, it is the content.
**************To see what I referenced, keep reading******************
Here ARE STRONG, POWERFUL AND COURAGEOUS WORDS COMING FROM A RETIRED COLONEL.
33 Senators Voted Against English as America 's Official Language on June 6, 2007.
On Wed. 6 June 2007 23:35:23 - 0500 Colonel Harry Riley , USA , Ret. wrote:
Senators:
Your vote against an amendment to the Immigration Bill 1348....to make English America 's official language is astounding.
On D-Day, no less, when we honor those that sacrificed in order to secure the bedrock, character and principles of America , I can only surmise your vote reflects a loyalty to illegal aliens.
I don't much care where you come from. What your religion is. Whether you're black, white, or some other color...male or female...... Democrat, Republican or Independent. ...... But I do care when you are a United States Senator representing Citizens of America ...and Vote against English as the official language of the United States
Your vote reflects Betrayal.
Political Surrender. Violates Your Pledge of Allegiance. Dishonors historical principle. Rejects Patriotism. Borders on traitorous action and, in my opinion, makes you unfit to serve as a United States Senator... Impeachment... Recall... Or other appropriate action is warranted or worse.
Four of you voting against English as America's Official Language are Presidential Candidates: Senator Biden,Senator Clinton,Senator Dodd, and Senator Obama.
Four Senators vying to lead America, but won't or don't have the courage to cast a vote in favor of 'English' as America 's Official Language when 91% of American Citizens want English officially designated as our language.
This is the second time in the last several months this list of Senators have disgraced themselves as 'political hacks'..... Unworthy as Senators and certainly unqualified to serve as President of the United States
If America is as angry as I am, you will realize a backlash so stunning it will literally 'rock you out of your panties'.... ..... And preferably totally out of the United States Senate.
The entire immigration bill is a farce... Your action only confirms this really isn't about America ...it is about self-serving politics.... ..despicable at best.
It has been said:
'Never Argue with an Idiot....They' ll drag you down to their level!'
********************************
PRESIDENT ABRAHAM LINCOLN
'Congressmen who willfully take actions during wartime that damage morale and undermine the military are saboteurs and should be arrested,
exiled or Hanged!!!
There are many things that I am passionate about: supporting our military, pro-life issues, improving the economy, fixing the education system in America (NCLB just makes my blood boil, but we do need to overhaul education) and religious rights for everyone. For me, English as the national language is not one of them.
Here is why...I don't care what language we speak. Spanish is just as good a language as English, in fact I find it to be more expressive sometimes, and it is certainly an easier language to learn. I would not want to have to learn English as 2nd language. This is a terrible language-we break our rules more often than not, and it isn't all that expressive or beautiful sounding. On the other hand, I am quite fluent in English, so it has that going for it! Even if English is not declared the national language I have a hunch that most people will still use it, and it will continue to remain a predominate language. It is the language of our founding- all our precious documents are in English, so I don't think that the language is going to die anytime soon. My kids and grandkids will still have to learn the language, and if they have to learn Spanish or something else as well, that is all well and good because that just means even more people can understand them as they share the love of Christ.
So, for once in my life I have found an issue that I'm not that worried about. If English is declared the national language, than cool. But if it isn't, it is just a language, just words. The bigger issue is not what language we are speaking in, but what we are saying- the content. I can be just as passionate in my support and thankfulness to everyone who has ever served in the military, and their families, and I can be just as patriotic an American, and just as crazy a Cheesehead in Spanish, Korean, Mandarin, Italian, Russian, Koine Greek (well maybe not, we all know how well I did with that...) or Pig Latin. The vessel is not the issue for me, it is the content.
**************To see what I referenced, keep reading******************
Here ARE STRONG, POWERFUL AND COURAGEOUS WORDS COMING FROM A RETIRED COLONEL.
33 Senators Voted Against English as America 's Official Language on June 6, 2007.
On Wed. 6 June 2007 23:35:23 - 0500 Colonel Harry Riley , USA , Ret. wrote:
Senators:
Your vote against an amendment to the Immigration Bill 1348....to make English America 's official language is astounding.
On D-Day, no less, when we honor those that sacrificed in order to secure the bedrock, character and principles of America , I can only surmise your vote reflects a loyalty to illegal aliens.
I don't much care where you come from. What your religion is. Whether you're black, white, or some other color...male or female...... Democrat, Republican or Independent. ...... But I do care when you are a United States Senator representing Citizens of America ...and Vote against English as the official language of the United States
Your vote reflects Betrayal.
Political Surrender. Violates Your Pledge of Allegiance. Dishonors historical principle. Rejects Patriotism. Borders on traitorous action and, in my opinion, makes you unfit to serve as a United States Senator... Impeachment... Recall... Or other appropriate action is warranted or worse.
Four of you voting against English as America's Official Language are Presidential Candidates: Senator Biden,Senator Clinton,Senator Dodd, and Senator Obama.
Four Senators vying to lead America, but won't or don't have the courage to cast a vote in favor of 'English' as America 's Official Language when 91% of American Citizens want English officially designated as our language.
This is the second time in the last several months this list of Senators have disgraced themselves as 'political hacks'..... Unworthy as Senators and certainly unqualified to serve as President of the United States
If America is as angry as I am, you will realize a backlash so stunning it will literally 'rock you out of your panties'.... ..... And preferably totally out of the United States Senate.
The entire immigration bill is a farce... Your action only confirms this really isn't about America ...it is about self-serving politics.... ..despicable at best.
It has been said:
'Never Argue with an Idiot....They' ll drag you down to their level!'
********************************
PRESIDENT ABRAHAM LINCOLN
'Congressmen who willfully take actions during wartime that damage morale and undermine the military are saboteurs and should be arrested,
exiled or Hanged!!!
Wall Drug
Wall Drug is a landmark in South Dakota. It is about 60 miles East of Rapid City, and is not nearly as famous as Mount Rushmore, but it is a tourist trap nonetheless. Back in the day when I-90 was built an enterprising pharmacist living in Wall, S.D. figured that tourists traveling on the near interstate would need to stop for refreshments. So he offered "free ice water" knowing that people would stop for the free water (because cars did not have a/c at the time) and then would browse and spend money in the drug store.
The plan worked. People stopped for the free water and the rest as they say is history! The town of Wall is built around the drug store and all the tourist traps that have been built up since. The water is still free, and the coffee is only a nickel. In a day the cost of everything is sky rocketing, it is nice to know that something remains the same. There are stores galore in Wall, and there is a backyard, dinosaur museum.
Growing up whenever we would travel through S.D. my family would HAVE to stop in Wall. It was just one of those things. My parents love the place. My Mom has even said (and this is a direct quote) "I like Wall Drug better than Disneyland." Better than Disneyland...hmmm.... I'm not convinced, and I have been there too many times to count.
We do have some unique memories connected to the town. One year Mom, Grandma, my sis and lil bro and I traveled all over the country and back in my parents' new minivan. It was the last day of traveling on the route home. We of course stopped at Wall and ordered milkshakes. My bro wanted ice cream, but Mom talked him into getting a milkshake. A chocolate milkshake. Well, he didn't finish it before it was time to go, so since it was in a cup he could take it in the car with him. We hadn't gone more than 15 miles when I saw Doug tip the cup over and the milkshake spilled all over him and the seat! None of us had ever seen Mom that mad, even her mother!!! Looking back we can all chuckle at the memory, but that day it was far from funny.
Then there were all the times we'd pass through on the way to or from visiting my sis at college in Minnesota. I was usually grumpy. Wall Drug is not my favorite place, and I've been there so often, and I'm one of those people that just loves to get in the car and drive and only stop when I'm forced to get gas, so I can get to my destination. Wall Drug was superfluous to me.
In all my life I have not known my parents to not stop at Wall Drug. Heck, they've even spent nights there. Well, today is a first. I just talked to them and they are driving from Rapid to northern WI and guess what!?! They did NOT, I repeat, did NOT stop at Wall Drug. It is a good thing that I was seated for the announcement, I almost fainted. For my family stopping at Wall Drug became as necessary as filling the tank up with gas or eating. It just happened, no ifs, ands, or buts! But today it didn't! I'm not sure what to think.
As I'm older now, and maybe a little bit wiser I still would say Disney is more of an attraction than Wall Drug, but I do admit that Wall is not all that bad. It is nice to have a place to stretch my legs and take a break from the tedium of driving I-90 through S.D. Now S.D. has some great features, but I-90 gets boring! So to have this place to stop before you hit Rapid (or after depending on the direction you are traveling) is nice. And free water is always welcome!
So, if you are traveling on I-90 through S.D. make sure to put Wall Drug on your places to see. There are signs all over the world advertising the place and how many miles it is to Wall Drug (a splendid marketing scheme if ever there was one) and it is a must visit for all erudite Americans. Something we should all do at least once. The kids will have fun, and with prices of food and gas going through the roof this is one place where the dollar can stretch.
The plan worked. People stopped for the free water and the rest as they say is history! The town of Wall is built around the drug store and all the tourist traps that have been built up since. The water is still free, and the coffee is only a nickel. In a day the cost of everything is sky rocketing, it is nice to know that something remains the same. There are stores galore in Wall, and there is a backyard, dinosaur museum.
Growing up whenever we would travel through S.D. my family would HAVE to stop in Wall. It was just one of those things. My parents love the place. My Mom has even said (and this is a direct quote) "I like Wall Drug better than Disneyland." Better than Disneyland...hmmm.... I'm not convinced, and I have been there too many times to count.
We do have some unique memories connected to the town. One year Mom, Grandma, my sis and lil bro and I traveled all over the country and back in my parents' new minivan. It was the last day of traveling on the route home. We of course stopped at Wall and ordered milkshakes. My bro wanted ice cream, but Mom talked him into getting a milkshake. A chocolate milkshake. Well, he didn't finish it before it was time to go, so since it was in a cup he could take it in the car with him. We hadn't gone more than 15 miles when I saw Doug tip the cup over and the milkshake spilled all over him and the seat! None of us had ever seen Mom that mad, even her mother!!! Looking back we can all chuckle at the memory, but that day it was far from funny.
Then there were all the times we'd pass through on the way to or from visiting my sis at college in Minnesota. I was usually grumpy. Wall Drug is not my favorite place, and I've been there so often, and I'm one of those people that just loves to get in the car and drive and only stop when I'm forced to get gas, so I can get to my destination. Wall Drug was superfluous to me.
In all my life I have not known my parents to not stop at Wall Drug. Heck, they've even spent nights there. Well, today is a first. I just talked to them and they are driving from Rapid to northern WI and guess what!?! They did NOT, I repeat, did NOT stop at Wall Drug. It is a good thing that I was seated for the announcement, I almost fainted. For my family stopping at Wall Drug became as necessary as filling the tank up with gas or eating. It just happened, no ifs, ands, or buts! But today it didn't! I'm not sure what to think.
As I'm older now, and maybe a little bit wiser I still would say Disney is more of an attraction than Wall Drug, but I do admit that Wall is not all that bad. It is nice to have a place to stretch my legs and take a break from the tedium of driving I-90 through S.D. Now S.D. has some great features, but I-90 gets boring! So to have this place to stop before you hit Rapid (or after depending on the direction you are traveling) is nice. And free water is always welcome!
So, if you are traveling on I-90 through S.D. make sure to put Wall Drug on your places to see. There are signs all over the world advertising the place and how many miles it is to Wall Drug (a splendid marketing scheme if ever there was one) and it is a must visit for all erudite Americans. Something we should all do at least once. The kids will have fun, and with prices of food and gas going through the roof this is one place where the dollar can stretch.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Thinking
So here it is Saturday morning, the day after Independence Day! The Capitol Fourth was well done, as it always is, and the fireworks behind the Washington Monument, oh so beautiful! Just reminded me of why I'd love to live there. In fact, Queens and I talked about that last night. I'm not sure if she is as excited as I am, but I like to think that she is!
So I titled this entry, "Thinking" because that is what I've been doing this morning. I have been thinking. I know, now it explains all the smoke you non Californians are smelling (pause as I pray for the fires to be quenched quickly)!
*****************************************************************************
I'm back! So I've been thinking about a myriad of things this morning. Will Favre return (see previous post) and I just don't know. The more I ponder it, the more I have to agree with Steve M. (if you don't know who that is, you don't pay close enough attention to the NFL) in that he (#4) probably won't return, but that till the season actually starts there will be rumors every week of his state of mind and what he will decide to do. That is the nature of celebrity, people will say what they want to happen, and all of a sudden it is all over the news, and the person being talked about never made a comment. Reminds me how precious privacy is, and why I'm penning my book under a pseudonym. Paige can have all the celebrity she wants, but I don't need it!
So what else have I been thinking about? Marriage is one thing, but not about getting married. I'm reading a book "The Marriage Builder" by Dr. Larry Crabb (who at least at the time this book was penned worked at CCU-I'm trying to remember if he did while I was there). It is very well written and seems like a good book to use in pre-marital counseling. It is a book that I checked out of the school library, but I think it is one that I need in my professional library. In this book Dr. Crabb's thesis is that our safety and security comes not from our spouse but from Christ. The fact that we are safe and secure comes from the Lord, but the Lord has designed marriage to reflect our relationship with HIM, so while the fact of our safety and security is in Christ, our feelings of safety and security come from our spouse. And my role as wife will be to always put my husband first and my motivation should always be "will this action/word/etc. make him feel more safe and secure and loved". A great book. I recommend it to couples that are already married, or that are thinking about being married.
Ok, so enough about marriage! I'm also reading a book on using metaphor stories in counseling, it is pretty good. It is mainly a collection of metaphor stories and what scenarios they are useful for. Once again, it would be a great resource to have in my library! I just love books!!!
I'm thinking that today is going to be a good day. I am going to go to the gym and go for a swim, and then maybe head over to Barnes and Noble and read for a bit, and then maybe call up a friend and catch a show at the dollar cinema near campus! All in all a great Saturday!!!
Thinking about doing things with friends reminds me of Christ (honestly everything reminds me of Christ)! Christ is our best friend, and how weird is that? The God of the universe, the God who created the universe and reigns supreme over everything is my best friend? I can go to HIM for anything and everything! I know that HE will never let me down, and that HIS advice is always right on target. I know that even when I admit my sins to HIM, I will still be loved, and HE will forgive me, no matter what the sin. I know that it hurts HIM when I sin, but HE still loves me and forgives me. That being the case, it causes me to want to sin less, so I don't let HIM down and disappoint HIM.
As a Christian I get to approach the throne in Heaven with whatever is on my mind, and I know that God hears my prayers, and not does HE hear them, but HE cares about whatever I care about, and HE wants to give me the desires of my heart. That is amazing and humbling, and oh so exciting.
To think that God wants to talk with me, and cares about me! I'm not all that exciting. I have a small group of friends, I haven't done anything earth shattering. I'm no Billy Graham or Beth Moore. I'm just a girl from the wild west, and the God of the universe has a personal interest in me! Wow! The even better part, as much as HE is interested in me, HE is interested in you too! God loves all of us.
Have a wonderful day, and may rest in the knowledge that even if everything is going wrong, and you feel down, you always have 1 thing going for you, and that thing is more important than anything else in the universe. God loves you and will take you. All we have to do is ask! Go ahead and ask, HE will come through for you. It may not be in the way you would expect, or even chose, but somehow God will come through for you, and you will be better off (spiritually) than you are now. All we have to do is believe on Him and accept the truth that Jesus is the only way to Heaven.
Enjoy the love of Christ today! I know that I am!!! Happy July 5, 2008!!!
So I titled this entry, "Thinking" because that is what I've been doing this morning. I have been thinking. I know, now it explains all the smoke you non Californians are smelling (pause as I pray for the fires to be quenched quickly)!
*****************************************************************************
I'm back! So I've been thinking about a myriad of things this morning. Will Favre return (see previous post) and I just don't know. The more I ponder it, the more I have to agree with Steve M. (if you don't know who that is, you don't pay close enough attention to the NFL) in that he (#4) probably won't return, but that till the season actually starts there will be rumors every week of his state of mind and what he will decide to do. That is the nature of celebrity, people will say what they want to happen, and all of a sudden it is all over the news, and the person being talked about never made a comment. Reminds me how precious privacy is, and why I'm penning my book under a pseudonym. Paige can have all the celebrity she wants, but I don't need it!
So what else have I been thinking about? Marriage is one thing, but not about getting married. I'm reading a book "The Marriage Builder" by Dr. Larry Crabb (who at least at the time this book was penned worked at CCU-I'm trying to remember if he did while I was there). It is very well written and seems like a good book to use in pre-marital counseling. It is a book that I checked out of the school library, but I think it is one that I need in my professional library. In this book Dr. Crabb's thesis is that our safety and security comes not from our spouse but from Christ. The fact that we are safe and secure comes from the Lord, but the Lord has designed marriage to reflect our relationship with HIM, so while the fact of our safety and security is in Christ, our feelings of safety and security come from our spouse. And my role as wife will be to always put my husband first and my motivation should always be "will this action/word/etc. make him feel more safe and secure and loved". A great book. I recommend it to couples that are already married, or that are thinking about being married.
Ok, so enough about marriage! I'm also reading a book on using metaphor stories in counseling, it is pretty good. It is mainly a collection of metaphor stories and what scenarios they are useful for. Once again, it would be a great resource to have in my library! I just love books!!!
I'm thinking that today is going to be a good day. I am going to go to the gym and go for a swim, and then maybe head over to Barnes and Noble and read for a bit, and then maybe call up a friend and catch a show at the dollar cinema near campus! All in all a great Saturday!!!
Thinking about doing things with friends reminds me of Christ (honestly everything reminds me of Christ)! Christ is our best friend, and how weird is that? The God of the universe, the God who created the universe and reigns supreme over everything is my best friend? I can go to HIM for anything and everything! I know that HE will never let me down, and that HIS advice is always right on target. I know that even when I admit my sins to HIM, I will still be loved, and HE will forgive me, no matter what the sin. I know that it hurts HIM when I sin, but HE still loves me and forgives me. That being the case, it causes me to want to sin less, so I don't let HIM down and disappoint HIM.
As a Christian I get to approach the throne in Heaven with whatever is on my mind, and I know that God hears my prayers, and not does HE hear them, but HE cares about whatever I care about, and HE wants to give me the desires of my heart. That is amazing and humbling, and oh so exciting.
To think that God wants to talk with me, and cares about me! I'm not all that exciting. I have a small group of friends, I haven't done anything earth shattering. I'm no Billy Graham or Beth Moore. I'm just a girl from the wild west, and the God of the universe has a personal interest in me! Wow! The even better part, as much as HE is interested in me, HE is interested in you too! God loves all of us.
Have a wonderful day, and may rest in the knowledge that even if everything is going wrong, and you feel down, you always have 1 thing going for you, and that thing is more important than anything else in the universe. God loves you and will take you. All we have to do is ask! Go ahead and ask, HE will come through for you. It may not be in the way you would expect, or even chose, but somehow God will come through for you, and you will be better off (spiritually) than you are now. All we have to do is believe on Him and accept the truth that Jesus is the only way to Heaven.
Enjoy the love of Christ today! I know that I am!!! Happy July 5, 2008!!!
Friday, July 4, 2008
Favre...!?!
Happy Fourth of July! I hope that for all my American readers, it is a great day of celebration and remembrance of how wonderful our country is, and how blessed we are to be citizens of such a magnificent land. To all my non-American readers, enjoy the day and spend it with people you love.
So, this week has been an interesting one for us Cheeseheads, as many of you might have heard, Favre sounds like he is maybe contemplating NOT retiring. He hasn't said anything definitive, but second hand text sources have us thinking that he is toying with the idea.
Here is the thing, while Favre made the big retirement speech on March 4, 2008, he never filled out the official paperwork, and so he remains listed as an active player for the NFL, but he is listed on GB's roster as inactive (so that his salary doesn't count against the cap).
According to his mother and brother, he has been working out and is feeling great. Now, all fans know that Favre has another couple of years left, and he is NOT a has been. The question is not one of is he up to the physical aspect. It is one of mental readiness. Is Favre up to handling the emotional and mental toll that a season of football takes on a living legend?
Of course, I would love to see him come back for another season or two. We just had such a good season. Yes, his last pass was an interception, but he had so many wonderful passes before that, so I'm not too worried about his last pass. I would love to see him come back and see the Packers win and bring the Lombardi Trophy back to Titletown. Watching Favre play is a treat, because he just enjoys being out on the field. His love of the sport is so obvious.
We have all heard the stories of toll it takes emotionally to play at such a high level of ball, and not only play but to be the team leader. It is a tough job, and it is week in and week out, a lot goes into preparing for the 60 minutes of play on Sunday. The Packers have a great schedule though, lots of MNF appearances, which would be great!
So, I don't know what I want. I want to see Favre do what is best for his family. He spends a lot of time away from family during the season, and his first priority should be them. He has given so much to football already. Yet, watching him play reminds me why I love football. It is F-U-N! As a fan I would love to have another Favre season, so I'd be a happy camper if he returned.
Yet, if he does come back, the retirement controversy will begin again in 2009. And really the only thing he can do to go out on top is to win the Super Bowl and that is NOT an easy task, even for such a talented team. If he comes back, I want to see the Packers win it all. Because if they don't, he will be trashed, and he is so good that he doesn't deserve that treatment. A QB is the leader of the team, and takes on the responsibility, but he is not the only player. It is up to all the offensive, defensive and special teams players to produce a winning season.
So who knows what Favre is thinking, because he has admittedly called all this speculation "just rumors". The press is releasing everything with no comments from Favre or his wife. It must be weird to turn on the tv and find out that you are pondering a return to professional sports.
There is another question to ponder... just because Favre comes back, doesn't mean that the GM has to put him on as the starting QB. Favre could be released from his contract (he has 3 more yrs left on it) to play for another team! Which team would that be? I don't any of us really want to see Favre in anything but the Green and Gold. It would just be weird. He has been with the Pack for 16 seasons. To think of Favre playing his home games elsewhere is odd. But it could happen. I don't think it will though. The GM doesn't want to go down in the history books as the guy who let go of a legend.
Either way it goes Favre will always be on the NFL's great players and the Packers will always be my favorite team. I just want a decision to be made, and know that all the Packers association hopes for the same. Only time will tell!!!
So, this week has been an interesting one for us Cheeseheads, as many of you might have heard, Favre sounds like he is maybe contemplating NOT retiring. He hasn't said anything definitive, but second hand text sources have us thinking that he is toying with the idea.
Here is the thing, while Favre made the big retirement speech on March 4, 2008, he never filled out the official paperwork, and so he remains listed as an active player for the NFL, but he is listed on GB's roster as inactive (so that his salary doesn't count against the cap).
According to his mother and brother, he has been working out and is feeling great. Now, all fans know that Favre has another couple of years left, and he is NOT a has been. The question is not one of is he up to the physical aspect. It is one of mental readiness. Is Favre up to handling the emotional and mental toll that a season of football takes on a living legend?
Of course, I would love to see him come back for another season or two. We just had such a good season. Yes, his last pass was an interception, but he had so many wonderful passes before that, so I'm not too worried about his last pass. I would love to see him come back and see the Packers win and bring the Lombardi Trophy back to Titletown. Watching Favre play is a treat, because he just enjoys being out on the field. His love of the sport is so obvious.
We have all heard the stories of toll it takes emotionally to play at such a high level of ball, and not only play but to be the team leader. It is a tough job, and it is week in and week out, a lot goes into preparing for the 60 minutes of play on Sunday. The Packers have a great schedule though, lots of MNF appearances, which would be great!
So, I don't know what I want. I want to see Favre do what is best for his family. He spends a lot of time away from family during the season, and his first priority should be them. He has given so much to football already. Yet, watching him play reminds me why I love football. It is F-U-N! As a fan I would love to have another Favre season, so I'd be a happy camper if he returned.
Yet, if he does come back, the retirement controversy will begin again in 2009. And really the only thing he can do to go out on top is to win the Super Bowl and that is NOT an easy task, even for such a talented team. If he comes back, I want to see the Packers win it all. Because if they don't, he will be trashed, and he is so good that he doesn't deserve that treatment. A QB is the leader of the team, and takes on the responsibility, but he is not the only player. It is up to all the offensive, defensive and special teams players to produce a winning season.
So who knows what Favre is thinking, because he has admittedly called all this speculation "just rumors". The press is releasing everything with no comments from Favre or his wife. It must be weird to turn on the tv and find out that you are pondering a return to professional sports.
There is another question to ponder... just because Favre comes back, doesn't mean that the GM has to put him on as the starting QB. Favre could be released from his contract (he has 3 more yrs left on it) to play for another team! Which team would that be? I don't any of us really want to see Favre in anything but the Green and Gold. It would just be weird. He has been with the Pack for 16 seasons. To think of Favre playing his home games elsewhere is odd. But it could happen. I don't think it will though. The GM doesn't want to go down in the history books as the guy who let go of a legend.
Either way it goes Favre will always be on the NFL's great players and the Packers will always be my favorite team. I just want a decision to be made, and know that all the Packers association hopes for the same. Only time will tell!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)