Life's Journey

Very Exciting Day

2012-03-05T05:33:00.001-08:00

Today is a very exciting day. You may not think so, but I do. For those of you who do not know, I have been in pain for two months. My right knee has been a source of occasional pain for several years. I have been told by the doctor that I will need knee replacement in a few years. Two months ago, I was walking to my car and was struck with excruciating pain in my right knee. That pain lasted for two days. I went to the doctor, who conducted some tests and then sent me to an orthopedic surgeon. He conducted more tests and determined that both cartilages in my right knee are torn.

Today I will have surgery on my knee. That's exciting??? Yes, it is. Even though the pain has been handled with a combination of medication and very little activity, it has still been exhausting. There have been times when I have sitting on the couch an just started crying--not from pain, but from being tired of being in pain. Being limited is boring and morale crushing. Think about not being able to do anything and not feeling like it anyway. I don't know how anyone could do this for any length of time. It makes me look at people who are permanently disabled in a new light.

When the doctor told me he was scheduling surgery, I felt better immediately. Why? Because there was hope. I don't know how much longer I could stand the pain if I knew there was no hope of getting better. Finally, today I will feel better. After a short recuperation I will be back up to speed. I can resume my old life and do the things I love, like cooking, baking, writing and teaching.

Praise God for hope. You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety. Job 11:18.

The Anxiety of Anticipation

2012-02-29T05:20:00.002-08:00

My daughter has never been able to wait for a surprise. She will find a way to learn the particulars well before the planned event or holiday. She was an adult before I learned that as a child she would unwrap Christmas presents and then rewrap them when I wasn't home. Imagine my surprise when I learned that my own father had taught her to use a knife to slit the tape and then tape over the same spot so I wouldn't notice.

This past Christmas she accompanied her fiance' family to a family function in a town about 150 miles from home. The family started home on Christmas Eve with plans to attend church the following morning, come home for a nice lunch and open gifts to each other. Her fiance' reported to me that as soon as they got in the car, my daughter started moving the timeline for opening gifts. She systematically moved it hour by hour until she had the whole family talked into opening gifts as soon as they arrived home. Her fiance' recently bought her a gift and had it mailed to my house. I actually hid it until he came over to keep her from unwrapping it.

We are now planning the wedding. My daughter and I both enjoy creating things ourselves and therefore have not hired a wedding planner or florist. We are doing all that. I decided to surprise her by sewing satin robes for the bride and bride's maids to wear while dressing the day of the wedding. It was supposed to be a surprise. Yeah, right. She found out about it.

One of the things she wanted for her wedding was a brooch bouquet instead of flowers. Several weeks ago, she changed her mind because she felt that it would be too expensive. I decided that I had to make it happen for her. I researched the internet for instructions on making the bouquet and spent literally hours on ebay bidding on brooches. Every time a package came in, I raced to get it and hide it before she saw it. Three days ago I began creating the bouquet. One day when she arrived home from work, she announced that she was going to buy supplies to make her floral bouquet. I said, "I don't think you need to do that yet. I think there are other things you need to spend your money on right now." She said, "Okay, you are the worst liar ever. What are you doing?" Over the next few days she absolutely hounded me for information. Just about the time I thought she had run out of tricks, she hit the all time high. One night, just as I was falling asleep, she came into my bedroom. She leaned over my bed and said, "Mom, Jesus called." I said, "What?" She said, "Jesus called and he said for you to tell me what you did today. You know you have to do what Jesus says." I said, "I'll make it right with Him tomorrow." Finally I finished the bouquet and presented it to her. Her reaction made all the anxiety and frustration worth it.

Sorry, 60 Minutes

2012-02-28T06:53:00.000-08:00

I hadn't planned on writing about this, but I caught the tail end of 60 Minutes this morning. The story was about the death of Emmett Tills, an event that has troubled me since I first heard the story several years ago. In case you don't know about Emmett Tills, let me sum it up for you.

Emmett Tills was a 14 year old African-American boy who lived in the north from July 25, 1941 until the summer of 1955 when he went to visit relatives in Mississippi. During the visit, the teenagers walked to town. As they were walking down the sidewalk, a beautiful woman walked by and Emmett made the mistake of whistling at her. Later that night he was dragged out of bed by two white men. Emmett was found in the river three days later. He had been tortured and killed. I will spare you the details. They are way too gruesome for me.

Several investigations were conducted, but no one was ever arrested. At the end of the 60 Minutes interview, Ed Bradley said something like 'it is quite possible that no one will ever pay for the death of Emmett Tills'. Immediately I thought, Wrong. God knows exactly who took part in this unspeakable crime and one day they will pay for it. Knowing that God will one day right the wrong is a comfort to me. I hope it is to the family.

We all face tragedy in our lives; but we can take comfort knowing that God knows everything we are going through. He feels our pain. One day, in His time, He will make sure that the person who hurts us pays the price. Thank you, Lord.

Waiting On God

2012-02-23T06:07:00.000-08:00

Several times I have seen a commercial advertising a dating website for Christians. During the commercial, the announcer says something like often times we are waiting on God and He is saying It's your turn to move. I do not want to misquote so I am not putting that in quotation marks. I do agree that there are times we sit on the sidelines when we should be taking part in the 'game'.

However, I seem to have more trouble moving before God. I see a situation taking place and in my zeal to right the wrong, I chart what in my opinion is the correct course and set sail. I navigate the rough seas, ride the ship-swallowing waves, fight fires on the ship, and sooth ruffled feathers of my crewmen. Once I've reached the other shore and look back over my journey, I usually find that if I had waited on God, the sailing would have been much easier and my impending exhaustion was completely unnecessary.

There have been times I have created a problem where there wasn't one or made a small problem bigger because I didn't wait on God. I moved before it was my turn. Yes there are times that we miss blessings because we don't move when God leads us. But there are just as many times, if not more that we create havoc because we didn't wait on God. Psalms 37:9 says, for evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth. What could we accomplish if we moved when God lead and waited until He did?

Immunity From Sin

2012-02-20T09:23:00.000-08:00

Unable to sleep due to a painful injury, I sat in the recliner and turned on the television. The show that came up was called Unfaithful: The Story of Betrayal. It is a series that tells stories of marriages in which one or the other has been unfaithful. I watched several episodes. What surprised me was the number of couples who were actively involved in the church. Some were pastors or pastors' wives.

Is it possible for Christians to be immune from sin? No, we are nothing but sinners saved from grace. What happened to these couples could happen to anyone. No one can say with confidence that they would never fall into this sin or any other. Given the right circumstances and under the right conditions, anyone can become an active participant in an otherwise unthinkable sin.

How do we protect ourselves from being trapped by Satan's pretty pictures? When I conducted in-service for teachers of behaviorally challenged students, I taught them what to do when being baited by a student. I would show a picture of a haunted house for emphasis and say, "Simply don't go there." The same can be said for Satan's traps. If we never put ourselves in a position to be snared, we can't be trapped. Here are a few tips that might insulate us from the sin of adultery:

Don't be alone with a person of the opposite sex in a house. If you need help around the house, hire someone. It is not a good idea to ask a friend to come to the house when you are alone.
Don't go to lunch alone with a person of the opposite sex. Even though you are in a restaurant, rumors can run rampant and once started are very difficult to stop.
Don't travel in an automobile alone with a person of the opposite sex. Always ask someone to ride with you, even if it is a child or teenager.
Don't accept gifts from a person of the opposite sex. Gifts are not given without a reason or occasion unless there is an ulterior motive.
If a confidential meeting is required, be sure someone else can see what is happening. Leave the door open where you can be seen, but not heard.
Have a habit of sharing your day with your mate. It is very difficult to be involved in something that will hurt your mate if you are sharing your heart with him or her.
Pray for yourself and your mate.

Death of a Star

2012-02-13T15:48:00.000-08:00

Much has been made of the death of Whitney Houston. She was one of the world's best singers. Anytime one of songs came on the radio, I stopped everything I was doing and listened. There was no way I could continue with my activities while she was singing. She had a history of drug and alcohol abuse. No illegal drugs were found in her room. So did she die of drug and alcohol abuse?

It will be weeks before we know the cause of death, but one thing is sure. The consequences of our action is certain. It may not be soon, but we will pay the consequence for our behavior. That goes for drug and alcohol use as well as over eating, poor diet, lack of exercise, and ignoring health concerns. The same can be said for our attitude toward others, poor handling of finances, ignoring maintenance on our homes or cars, and taking care of business.

It is quite possible that Whitney Houston had not engaged in drug or alcohol use on the day she died. Years ago another singer, Karen Carpenter died after years of battling an eating disorder. She had sought counseling and recovered, however the damage had been done to her body. Our body does not recover just because we begin treating it appropriately. Our credit score does not immediately recover when we begin working on it. The pain of immediately forgotten when we apologize for hurtful words or actions toward others.

The bottom line is that there is a consequence for any decision we make or behavior we engage. My husband said, "If you dance to the tune, you have to pay the piper." The consequence is not always immediate. Sometimes it takes years to see the damage and when we do, there is no reversal. As we make decisions, let's be aware that there will be a consequence.

Is Love a Feeling

2012-02-10T11:46:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is fast approaching. The day we celebrate love. There many verses in the Bible that speak of love. Here are a few.

Luke 6:35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.

1 Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

Have you ever looked at the way the Bible uses the word love? It doesn't say 'do this and you will feel love'. Most of the time when the word love is used it is an action word. It is not a feeling. God commands us to love one another. He didn't say feel love for one another. He said do it. Does that mean we have to love when we don't feel it? Yes, that is exactly what it means. We are commanded to love, love, and then love again. No one is commanded to love us. (Remember the Bible is a letter to us.)

Since Valentine's Day is approaching, it would be a good time to love--even when we don't feel it. I would like to challenge you to show love to someone in your life, even if you don't feel it. Here are a few ideas. Leave them a note or a card that celebrates something about them. I had a friend who put a note in her husband's lunch box every day. My husband has left notes on my dashboard. Try it for a week and see if something changes. There is something about receiving an unexpected note that brings joy to the heart and softens hard edges. How would a love note to that difficult teenager touch his or her heart? Not a gushy, mushy note. Just a note that says, "Hey son, I'm glad God sent you to me." Or maybe, "You are still my baby." "My life became brighter the day you were born." And to that mate who is difficult to love, yes there are some, "Thanks for your help around the house." "Thanks for providing for me and the children." "I appreciate your service at church and in the community."

Everyone wants to be appreciated. Let's determine to appreciate a loved one next week. Let's show love and not 'wait' for the love.

Thoughtful Idea

2012-02-09T02:44:00.000-08:00

My daughter is getting married and as a result, I have many projects in progress. A friend offered to help with one of the projects. We went to her house, worked on the project and visited all day. I learned a lot about my friend that day. She is known as a very giving person, both of herself and her finances. As we were talking I asked, "Do you know how much you give away?" She answered, "Yes, but since I was in that position one time, I give to others now." When I didn't understand, she proceeded to tell me of the time her child was sick and her husband unemployed. She told me how the church had raised money to pay for the child's hospital care.

My friend told me about church members driving the 85 miles the hospital to sit in the waiting room with her and her husband while their child was in ICU. The members created baskets of food for the anxious parents and their visitors. Then she told me about something that I thought was the most thoughtful of all. One church member brought a jar of change, mostly quarters, because they needed quarters to leaved the garage parking lot.

How many of us have jars of change sitting around? What do we do with it? We dust around it. We grab a few quarters out of it for the soda machine or toll way. Have you ever considered how helpful that old jar of change would be to someone required to go for medical treatment on a regular basis? How helpful would it be to that person to know they had the correct change for parking or tollway? The next time you hear of a friend who will be receiving ongoing medical treatment, I hope you think about that old jar of coins in your closet. It might be trash to you, but it could be a treasure to someone else.

Airport Revelation

2012-02-06T07:43:00.000-08:00

A fictional story of how one woman's life was changed in an airport.

Gladys was looking forward to the vacation. She was flying to New York to see her daughter and grandchildren. Her husband was unable to join her and she was furious with him; but he sent her to the airport with his love and gifts for the grandchildren. After going through security and locating the gate, she walked through the over-priced gift shops and managed to leave without purchasing anything. As she passed the windows, she noticed the darkening sky. Inclement weather had been predicted and the possibility of delayed flights had been announced over the airport intercom.

Gladys walked into one of the restaurants and seated herself at a table in the corner.
"My name is Courtney and I'll be your waitress today. Are you ready to order?" The young waitress asked.
"I'd like a grilled chicken salad and unsweet iced tea, please."
"Sure thing. I'll have it right out."
Gladys watched the other customers in the restaurant. She had always been able to entertain herself by watching people. "People are the funniest animals God made." She had once remarked to a friend.

The couple in the opposite corner seemed to be arguing about something. Take it home, would you. Who cares about your problems? Gladys thought as she watched them. A few tables to her left a young couple was making eyes at each other as if no one else was in the restaurant. Oh get a room already. The parents at the middle table were having a difficult time with a fussy toddler. I hope they are not on my flight, Gladys thought.

Courtney returned with the iced tea, placed it on the table and left. Gladys took a sip and discovered it was soured, something that turned her stomach. I'm not surprised. She didn't look like she could walk and talk at the same time. I'll have her bring a fresh glass when she returns.

Anger was showing on the face of the woman in the opposite corner. Her words were still inaudible, but getting louder by the minute. She was clearly upset with her table mate. He made gestures with his hands to calm her, but his effort was futile. She is too mad at you buddy. I don't know what you did, but you will pay for it.

Courtney returned with the salad, placed it on the table and turned to leave. "Just a minute." Gladys said. "My tea is soured. Please bring me a fresh glass." Courtney picked up the glass and returned to the kitchen.

"I'm tired of your broken promises." Gladys heard the woman in the corner say. Again the man made calming gestures with his hands. Give it to him, baby. Don't take anything off him. He's not worth it. No man is.

The toddler was throwing food at his parents, who were becoming increasingly aggitated. Can't you control your child?

Courtney returned with a fresh glass of iced tea. "Here you go. I'm sorry about the first glass. I just came on duty and didn't have time to check it before I served you." I'm really not interested in your excuses. Courtney left the table.

Gladys took a bite of her salad. The chicken was cold and the lettuce was warm. Certainly not worth the price. Gladys ate about half of the salad and drank most of the tea before leaving a very small tip and paying the ticket.

Gladys had just arrived at the gate when she heard an announcement. "Flights 1789, 2889, and 1598 are delayed due to inclement weather." Great. Just what I need, more time in this zoo. Gladys sat down and pulled the Kindle from her purse. Reading in a loud public place was difficult for her but there was nothing else to occupy her time. She looked out the window and knew from the looks of the sky that her flight would be delayed for hours.

After an hour of reading--or rather trying to, Gladys walked to the ladies room, which was surprisingly quiet. There was only one other stall in use. As Gladys was washing her hands, the stall opened and Courtney walked out. Oh great! Just what I need for a perfect day. A ditzy waitress who can't even bring a plate of food to the table without mishaps.

Courtney smiled at Gladys in the mirror. "Oh hi. I remember you from the restaurant. I'm sorry about the tea. It is supposed to be made fresh every hour, but I guess someone forgot."

"That's alright. I lived through it." Gladys said in her usual sarcastic tone. But it certainly didn't help my mood.

At that moment they heard a tremendous crash on the other side of the bathroom door. People were screaming and crying. The sound of breaking glass cut through the screams. Then those sounds were drowned out by the sound of crashing metal. Gladys and Courtney ran to the door. Opening it they saw a scene that belonged in a disaster movie rather than real life. They saw mangled metal and broken bodies piled higher than the doorway. There was no way for them to escape the ladies room. They looked up to examine the ceiling and saw a few cracks, but nothing major. As long as the ceiling held out, they would be safe until they were rescued, which would be hours.

Gladys had a panic attack which caused her to hyperventilate. She couldn't even catch her breath enough to cry. If Courtney hadn't been looking at her, the attack would have gone unnoticed. Courtney grabbed her shoulders and pulled her to the back corner of the bathroom. Once Gladys was sitting on the floor, Courtney began to help her calm down. "Breathe. Breathe. Breathe. You are alright. You are not hurt. Breathe." Gladys slowly began to take normal breaths. Then the tears started flowing and hysteria replaced the hyperventilation.
"We are going to die." She screamed.
"You are alright. You are not hurt." Courtney repeated.
"We are going to die in here and no one knows we are here."
"We are not going to die. We are fine. God knows we are here."
"Oh well that is just great. Is He coming in here to get us?"
"He is already here."
"And just how do you know that?" Gladys screamed.
" Because I am here and He goes everywhere I go."
"Oh don't be ridiculous. What makes you so special that God goes with you every day?
"Nothing. I am not special at all."
"Then why do you think God is with you?"
"Because when I was a little girl, I accepted Him as my Savior."
Slowly Gladys was able to gain control of her emotions. "You did what?"
"I accepted Him as my Savior."
"Why did you do that?"
"I am a sinner which means I can't get into heaven when I die."
"You don't look much like a sinner."
"What does a sinner look like?"
"You know. A murderer or rapist. Someone who breaks the law and hurts other people."
Courtney laughed. "Well, I will admit that I am not that kind of sinner. But I am a sinner. Everyone is. Romans 3:23 says For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:10 says There is no one righteous, not even one. Romans 6:22 and 23 says For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. That means that no one is good enough to enter heaven on his own."
"Well that's a little insulting, don't you think?" Gladys asked indignantly.
"Not as insulting as denying Christ who gave His life that we might go to heaven. John 3:16 says For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. Denying Him after He gave His life for us is the greatest insult of all."
"I'm not denying that He died. Everyone knows that."
"I'm talking about refusing to accept Him as Savior."
"Why do I need to do that?"
"Because you are sinner."
"Oh thanks. It's not enough that ruined my lunch, now you have to question my character."
"I'm not questioning your character. I’m stating what the Bible says. All are sinners and the only way to be forgiven of those sins is to ask Christ. He will forgive you of your sins. You will be justified. That means just as if you've never sinned. So when you die, you will go to heaven because you have no sin on your back. Christ took it for you."
"Well that is all fine and good when I die, but what about right now when we are trapped in a bathroom."
"When Christ comes into your heart, He will provide you with peace and contentment. You can be assured that He will always be there for you. Philippians 4:19 says But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. All you have to do is trust Him."
"There has to be more to it than that."
"There isn't. You simply place your trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and leave the rest to Him. Would you like to do that today?"
"How do I start?"
"Bow your head and I will lead you in prayer. Lord, thank you for sending Gladys to me today. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share Your love with her. Please help her as she places her trust in You. Be a comfort to her heart. Please keep us safe until the rescuers come today. Amen."
Gladys started a little hesitantly. "Lord, thank you for sending Courtney to talk to me. I ask you to forgive me of my sins and help me to be the person You want me to be. Help me to trust you. Courtney says that you will take care of us, but I'm still scared. Please send the rescuers soon. Amen."

It took hours for the rescue team to reach them. In the meantime Courtney sang hymns and did her best to keep Gladys calm. Gladys still struggled with her fears, but she didn't have any more panic attacks.

Upon being rescued, the women were interviewed by the media. "What did you lose in the tornadoes?"
"Not nearly as much as I found." Gladys replied with a smile.

Political Future

2012-02-03T03:47:00.000-08:00

It is difficult to turn on the television or radio without hearing about the coming election. Who said what. Who is leading in the poles. Who is dropping out. What one said about another. Most of all, what the experts predict will happen. We receive phone calls asking us to support one candidate or another.

I don't engage in political discussion. I will not tell you for whom I will vote or even who I am considering. However I would like to talk about our political future. It is very bleak. Why? Not because of the candidates. Not because of their political views. It is bleak because so few vote. In the 2008 election less than 54% of the American population voted. That means that 46% of the population doesn't want to take responsibility for our government.

Years ago there was a saying, "If you don't vote, don't complain." Now who doesn't complain about our government??? We all complain about something, but we don't all vote. Romans 13:1 says, Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. As Christians, we have the obligation and responsibility to be subjects of the government. We need to be willing to accept that responsibility. We can do that when we vote.

Please make a commitment to vote in the upcoming elections.

Rollercoaster Pattern

2012-01-31T09:05:00.000-08:00

Life is full of times when we feel encouraged. Everything is going our way. The world looks rosie and we understand all the 'top of the world' songs. And then somethings happen. The deal falls apart. The relationship sours. The job plays out and bills pile up. Our rosie world is gone and we feel like we are being stepped on by everyone. The songs begin to irritate us--no one else has the right to be that happy. And then something happens to encourage us.

This is a pattern of discouragements and encouragements. There is even a name for the pattern. It is called life. Everyone goes through it. Have you ever stopped to think why we have discouraging times? If we didn't have these times, we would not appreciate the encouraging times as much. We must go through the valley to see the view from the mountain top. Times of discouragement teaches us patience and empathy.

The times of discouragement also teaches us faith. If we are growing spiritually, we should be able to remember the last time we went through an emotionally draining time. Then we should remember how God brought us through it. If we go through this time and time again, eventually we get to the point where we say, "I don't know how God is going bring me through this, but I know He is." What we have learned in the past should help us trust God in the future.

Come On February 2, 2012

2012-01-27T06:47:00.000-08:00

I am so looking forward to February 2, 2012. Why? Because J.C. Penny has a big sale or a new concept on sales or something important happening that day. More importantly, that loud, obnoxious, poorly written commercial will be over. Do you know the one I'm talking about? It is the one where one person after another is screaming "NOOOOO!" because they missed a sale or a coupon is required or they have some other problem with the sale.

I would like to know how much J.C. Penny Corporation paid for that commercial. There are no great actors. No brilliant sets. Except for the woman who opens her mail box, all taping is done in a department store. Think about it. Set up a camera and some lights and ask someone to scream while you tape them. This is art???? I don't think so. It certainly isn't acting.

Now I love commercials. They are required to tell a story in 30 seconds or less--not easy. My favorites are the Swiffer commercials where the dirt or grime is personified. The elderly lady that is supposed to be a film "No one has taken a shine to me in a long time." is hilarious. That is art and required some deep thinking to include words typically used for love and romance to describe something as ugly as dirt. But every time the "NOOOO!" commercial comes on, I hit the mute button. It insults my intelligence, hurts my ears, and invades my sanctity. Surely a corporation that has withstood the test of time can air better commercials.

Safety First

2012-01-24T04:01:00.000-08:00

I have been a people watcher my entire life. I could sit and watch people all day. I want to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and what they were thinking when they did it.

My husband often reprimands me for watching true crimes depicted on television. He says, "Why do you want to watch stuff like that?" I watch because I am interested in people. I want to know about the victim and the criminal. As much as we would like to hate the perpetrator, he or she was still some one's child and a soul that Christ died to redeem.

As I watch, I often hear one of the loved ones say "She was completely innocent" and I think well, not completely. It is not uncommon to see that the victim did not use wisdom in making a decision that led up to the attack. NOT ALWAYS, I know, but it does happen. Yesterday I watched a show where a college coed was killed by a stranger. She was coming home from work at 1:30 a.m. and called her boyfriend who asked her to stop and buy him some chocolate milk. She stopped at a well lit store in a safe neighborhood. The problem was that a man had been lurking around the store for over an hour. He approached her inside the store and asked for a ride, which she refused. He went outside and when she exited the store forced her into her car.

Now I know she did nothing wrong. Please let me make that clear. However, after he had followed her around the store and asked for a ride several times, it would have been wiser for her to remain in the store until he left the premises. The clerk could have called a police escort for her. She could have called her boyfriend from her cell phone and talked to him on the way to her car. This often deters perpetrators. There is a new device about the size of cell phone and service offered by ADT. With the push of one button, an operator will stay with you while you walk to your car and report to the police if needed.

The key to safety is being proactive. Be aware of your surroundings. Don't assume everyone is trustworthy. If you get the heeby jeebies when he looks at you, take precautions. Because he looked at me? No, because your instinct warned you. Listen to it. If you get a gut feeling that something is wrong, then take some action. Maybe it is nothing, but what if it isn't. Will you have time to take action later? Be safe--not sorry.

Showcasing Journey to Fulfillment

2012-01-23T09:11:00.000-08:00

Review of Triumph Through Trial, A Story of Renewal

2012-01-17T05:59:00.000-08:00

Triumph Through Trials

So often the beauty of life surfaces among the thorns of pain. Triumph Through Trials walks the reader through the stages we face in relationships, chapters of life, and common episodes—so often, taken for granted and unappreciated. Until the day adversity rocks our senses and we’re forced to take a second look, wake up to the value and often, for the first time, see life through the eyes of love. Triumph Through Trials reminds us of God’s power to restore relationships rearrange priorities and rekindle dreams.—Janet Perez Eckles

Janet Perez Eckles

International speaker and #1 bestselling author

Simply Salsa reached #1, what is it about?

“It’s about your friend, your neighbor or your coworker who stays awake at night with worry, fear and insecurities.

Review of Night of the Cossack Study Guide

2012-01-16T05:52:00.000-08:00

Night of the Cossack Lesson Plan

Ten day lesson plan based on the book Night of the Cossack. This lesson plan covers Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies plus discussion questions concerning Moral Dilemmas.

Being a homeschooling mother, I'm very picky as to what my children read and learn. I'm a traditional schooler, so this is my first experience with a unit study. I wasn't disappointed. Ms. Franklin put together an excellent resource for any teacher, whether homeschool, public, or private, that was thorough, in depth, educational, and fun. Utilizing online tools and references, as well as the traditional method - pencil and paper - this guide encompasses the whole spectrum that is suitable for upper middle grades and can be adjusted for high school students.

Mr. Blubaugh has written an excellent book in a easy to read voice that will capture your imagination, as well as your heart, while Ms. Franklin has incorporated a no less than excellent guide/teaching tool. These two authors make a most wonderful team that I would love to see more from.

Note - There are moral dilemmas dealt with in Mr. Blubaugh's book that may be a little uncomfortable for younger learners. These situations are dealt with in a tasteful and non-graphic manner. I highly recommend this study guide and Mr. Blubaugh's book for not only schooling purposes, but enjoyment as well.

Amanda Stephan~Christian Author
** Lonely Hearts ** a sweet Christian romance
**The Price of Trust ** Christian romantic suspense

Quiet Justice, Quiet Lesson

2012-01-13T04:42:00.000-08:00

Marie parked in front of the sandwich shop. It was late and she was tired. Her plan was to buy sandwiches from dinner and take them home to the family. As she exited her car, she saw a small child alone in the car parked next to hers.

The child bounced happily over the seats, all the while watching someone in the restaurant. Marie looked through the large windows and saw a man and woman watching the small child. Marie entered the store and stood in line. The couple walked up the window to order. Marie looked at the child in the car. He was crying now. She could see his mouth moving as if he was calling for his parents. The couple took turns looking at the child. They could see him crying, but made no reaction.

There were several customers between Marie and the couple. She watched them, assuming they would go back to their car and crying child when they received their food. Instead, they picked up the order and calmly walked to a table, sat down and began eating. Marie looked outside and watched the child throw himself down on the back seat. The look on his face was one of terror. Marie felt her blood pressure rise as she watched the scene.

This makes me so mad. When I get to the window I am going to demand the manager call the police. She thought as she stood in line.

The couple repeatedly turned in the seat to watch the child who was no less hysterical. They made no effort to console him. It was obvious the child had been a holy terror and was being punished for inappropriate behavior. I don’t care if he is. That is not appropriate punishment for a small child. Marie thought as her temper rose even higher. Stay calm, Marie. Don’t make a scene in front of this crowd.

A man standing at the front of the line received his food and quietly walked toward the dining room. He was dressed in starched jeans, button down shirt and boots. Marie watched him walk toward the couple. She heard him say, “Hi, how are you doing? Do you have a minute?” She saw him quickly show the man something and slip it back into his pocket. As he folded it, she noticed it was a police badge.

The police officer and the man walked outside and stood beside the car containing the screaming child. He was now hitting the window and crying. Marie saw the police officer point to the child and speak sternly to the father. The man nodded his head and indicated his understanding. Then the officer got into an unmarked car and drove away. The father opened the door and the toddler fell into his arms. The father hugged the child and talked for a while. The child had the same expression on his face that the father had when the officer was talking to him.

Marie looked around the restaurant at the other costumers. It appeared that she was the only one to have witnessed the interaction. Her heart melted with affection for the officer and shame at the way she would have handled the situation. Today an officer quietly handled a situation and taught a father about love.

Feeling Good About Feeling Well

2012-01-10T07:06:00.000-08:00

I have been absent from the scene for a while now. I tried to blog when I could, but there were days that I just did not have the strength to type.

It all began about two months ago when we sold our home of 35 years. We were moving into a temporary home until my husband retires. The plan was to move what we absolutely needed to the rent house and move the rest to storage close to our retirement home. It was going great until my husband hurt his back. Then guess who had the privilege of doing more than her fair share. You are right. I did. Of course it didn't take long for my back began reminding me of my age. However, I don't have permanent back damage, so I took Advil and worked through it.

We moved into the rent house the day after Thanksgiving. Still had a lot to do at the old house, but we were in the new house. It seemed like every day I went to the old house and worked to move something or clean something. We were scheduled to close the transaction on December 1. That date was delayed by problems with the buyer's sale of his old house. We were probably given five different dates before we finally closed on January 5 of this year.

Meanwhile we had purchased two adjoining pieces of property from two different individuals with the anticipation of building our retirement home. The delay of closing our old house delayed the closing of the properties.

Finally, last Thursday we closed on the properties. Now we can relax, right? Wrong! Friday I hurt my knee. It was so swollen and painful, I seriously considered going to the emergency room. I took something for the pain, iced my knee and suffered through. I was unable to lie in the bed and spent three nights in the recliner.

Yesterday I saw the doctor, did an ultrasound and received prescriptions for swelling and pain. This morning I am not pain free, but on the way. I would say that today I am uncomfortable, but not in pain. That is a great feeling. I will take uncomfortable any day.

Thank God for healing.

Review of Triumph Through Trial

2012-01-04T06:58:00.000-08:00

Triumph Through Trial

Title: Triumph Through Trial, A Story of Renewal
Author: Theresa Franklin
ISBN # 978-1-936587-76-6 E-Book Edition
Review Date: January 3, 2012
Reviewed by CBM Christian Book Reviews
10.0 on a scale of 10.0 stars

“Triumph Through Trial, A Story of Renewal” by award winning Christian author Theresa Franklin is an endearing story of the Owens family who went from discord, contention and strife to a new life full of renewal and triumph. Romans 8:28 states (NIV), “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” We can rest assured that even though there are trials, tragedies and hardships in life, if we live our life according to God’s plans and purposes, He will work everything out in our life for good. Get ready to sit down, relax and enjoy this beautifully written book full of hope, encouragement and faith through the story of one family that overcame life’s adversities through oneness in Christ.

Author, Theresa Franklin does a wonderful job in administering to the heart of families and encouraging families to stick together in love through this fictional short story. We all know what our lives look from the outside. But when we examine our family life from the inside, more than we like to admit, one will find dysfunction in the home. When we come to a place of acknowledging our sins and confessing them to God, God can work on our behalf. The author asks these important questions and urges us all to spend, “…time in front of God’s mirror and try to see what those who know you best actually see? Are you a Christian? Have you accepted Christ as your savior?” In that, the author is asking, are you walking the walk and talking the talk? So many people profess to be Christians, but as Christians we should be exhibiting love, respect and service to our families in the home as well. If not, this book will lead the way to a new path of wholeness in Christ for families.

Driven by emotions, control, negativity, judgment and perfectionism, Cynthia is in complete denial of her behavior towards her family members. Severely affected, the husband is miserable, and her children avoid her as much as possible. Inevitably when there is dysfunction in the home, the author states, the stress can be measured in emotional and physical illnesses. Although the book is a fictional story, the author has described a very real and believable picture of how life is in our own families sometimes. The Owens family is torn from the inside out, due to stresses from the contention and discord caused by one family member suffering from deep emotional wounds caused from her own dysfunctional childhood.

This book is truly a blessing to families and the body of Christ. The author, through the use of scriptures and examples of family life, paints a wonderful picture of how life can be through the love and redemption of Jesus Christ. The author promotes family in this story of healing and encourages others, that “…love covereth a multitude of sins.” Families will find solace and comfort through this book. Theresa’s Franklin’s writing style flows smoothly making for an easy read, keeping the reader fully engaged. This book will minister to all families that are “less than perfect.” A highly recommend, encouraging read that will impact others for Christ. God can work in any situation, as the author illustrates, even the impossible ones.

Triumph Through Trial, A Story of Renewal By Author Theresa Franklin

Highly Recommended
10.0 on a scale of 10.0 stars
Book Review by CBM Christian Book Reviews

Song Worth Pondering

2012-01-02T04:13:00.000-08:00

Sunday, in church the choir sang a song unfamiliar to most of the congregation. I listened closely to the words. The chorus said:

They will know we are Christians by our love, by our love.
They will know we are Christians by our love.

I thought about the truth of those words. What would we show the world if we truly demonstrated love to each other? How often have we seen two Christians fighting like cats and dogs? Have you ever seen Christians be mortal enemies for years?

The sermon was on Chapter 4 of Ephesians. The pastor made several comments that allowed my mind to continue on the thought pattern above. He said, "It's not about you. It's not about me. It's the kingdom of God." Then he talked about Christians who are angered for petty reasons. He said, "That is not kingdom building. It is monument building. We are building a monument to ourselves." Whoa!!! How often do we do that?

I determined to try to do more kingdom building this year. When someone angers me, I will try to examine my behavior and determine if it is kingdom building or monument building. I challenge you to do the same. Let's endeavor to build the kingdom of God this year.

The New Year is Coming

2011-12-27T19:10:00.000-08:00

Christmas is over and the New Year is less than a week away. Every year millions of people make resolutions that last about a week. I'd like to present a new approach to you.

How about making one long range goal of what you wish to accomplish this year? Then set several benchmarks (measuring points) to help keep you on track. If you wish to save a certain amount of money by the end of the year, break it up into four points throughout the year.

Long Range Goal--save $3,000 by one year from today.

Save $750 by the end of March
Save $1500 by the end of June
Save $2150 by the end of September
Save $3,000 by the end of December

Maybe your goal is to get organized.

Organize closets by end of February
Organize garage by the end of May
Organize paperwork by the end of July

Maybe your goal is to read so many books. Break the number up into small increments.

Read three books by February.
Read six books by July.

What if your goal is to stop smoking? Determine how much you smoke in one day now. Then set your benchmarks of fewer cigarettes throughout the year.

The reason you do not want to set monthly goals is because some months are busier than others. If you fail at your monthly goal, you may become discouraged and quit. If you give yourself several months to achieve your goal, you can catch up during the months that are less busy.

Whatever your goal--stop at checkpoints occasionally and reward your efforts. You deserve the reward just for trying.

Do We Value Life?

2011-12-26T12:33:00.000-08:00

I was listening to an oldies station on the radio while traveling during the Christmas weekend. The song Ode to Billy Joe came on. I was alone in the car and really listened to the words for probably the first time. I have copied the first few lines for you. Read them carefully and see if you notice what I did.

It was the third of June, another sleepy, dusty Delta day
I was out choppin' cotton and my brother was balin' hay
And at dinner time we stopped and walked back to the house to eat
And Mama hollered out the back door "y'all remember to wipe your feet"
And then she said "I got some news this mornin' from Choctaw Ridge"
"Today Billy Joe MacAllister jumped off the Tallahatchie Bridge"

'n' Papa said to Mama as he passed around the blackeyed peas
"Well Billy Joe never had a lick of sense, pass the biscuits, please"
"There's five more acres in the lower forty I've got to plow"
'n' Mama said it was shame about Billy Joe, anyhow
Seems like nothin' ever comes to no good up on Choctaw Ridge
And now Billy Joe MacAllister's jumped off the Tallahatchie Bridge

Do you notice how little regard the parents have for the loss of life? They just talk about it casually as if the news had been 'rain in the forecast'. I thought about that as I was driving. How often do we do the same thing when we hear of a death?

Do we really value life anymore? Do we consider what the loss will do to the family? Do we stop to consider the soul that left the earth? Are we concerned with loss of life?

Now I realize that we cannot grieve for every person who dies. We would be living in a perpetual state of grief. But shouldn't the fact that a fellow human being died impact our lives on some level?

These are my thoughts on the subject. You are welcome to click 'comments' below this post and add your thoughts.

Goodbye Noel

2011-12-15T02:07:00.000-08:00

Genre: Historical Romantic Thriller

Blurb:

The first body is found under a trimmed Christmas tree, the second as they ring in the New Year (1947), the third goes head long out a window. Will a young pediatric nurse determined to make it on her own be able to care for an infant whose mother was murdered and escape the killer who has struck again? Can she trust the stalwart village detective with her life and her heart as he works to catch this killer before somebody else dies?

Pediatric nurse, Katrina Lenart, grew up strong willed and independent minded, while sharing her mother's flair for high fashion. When the police chief gives her an orphaned baby to care for, her maternal instincts take over and she's willing to fight anyone who might not have the infant's best interests at heart, even the man she's growing to love. After an attempt is made to kidnap the baby, she and the resolute village detective team up and do some sleuthing, undercover at a cult as well as at a fancy ball.

Detective Ian Daltry is a widower with a child and is not interested in a new love. Hunting a killer who stops at nothing has placed him in the position where he must protect a beautiful young woman he's drawn to. Is there's something he's overlooked in analyzing the case? Will he find out what that is before this ruthless murderer kills someone he loves?

Excerpt:

Chapt 5, scene 1

Long Island, New York

Late December, 1946

Katrina wanted to throw Detective Daltry into a snow bank. The nerve of him, barging into their house twice in two days, demanding she bundle the baby up and take him into the cold. How could that man not recall their harrowing, nighttime drive through the storm of the decade? She tossed her hair back over her shoulder, and with great difficulty held her tongue.

Momma apparently had no such reservations. "Detective, what you are doing is very wrong."

Katrina came up beside her mother, to show a united front. "This is outrageous." Her eyes narrowed and she crossed her arms over her chest. She hated the tone of her voice, but this baby wasn't a ping-pong ball to be batted back and forth as the detective moved forward with his murder case.

He ignored her and continued addressing her mother.

"I'm sorry, ma'am." He removed his fedora. "Chief Ferguson has already made the necessary phone calls and arrangements have been made. I must take Leslie Janos Bauer with me to the home of his aunt in Bay Shore. The chief would prefer your daughter come along in an official capacity as a nurse. It's up to her, but I have to take the baby."

Momma's face flushed beet-red, a sure sign she'd become enraged. "This is not good for him… this hustle from place to place."

"With all due respect, ma'am, a child belongs with his family, if at all possible." The detective took a step toward Katrina. "Now, will you please fetch the baby." It wasn't a request.

Katrina made sure she stood tall. "Yes, I'll get Leslie." She clenched her fists at her side and jutted her chin. "This is disgraceful. You are using this infant to solve your murder case. Perhaps your own tragic life experience clouds your judgment?"

His mouth fell open and he took a step back.

"If you have it within your heart, give me one minute. I'll get him ready and get my coat and boots on." Without giving him a chance to reply, Katrina turned and stormed up the stairs.

Leslie lay sleeping in the baby-doll cradle Poppa had made for her when she was a little girl. Poppa had that kind of talent. He could make anything. In her heart she knew, he'd figured it would be her baby's bassinet. At least now, it had a real purpose. She ran a finger over the hand carved leaves in the headboard.

"Milachku, time to wake up." She took the infant into her arms inhaling the smell of baby, sweeter than the most expensive imported perfume.

Leslie yawned and she snuggled her nose in the soft folds of skin between his head and shoulder, kissing his neck. He cooed, so safe in her arms.

She brought him to her heart, holding him, rocking him and spoke softly to her reflection in the mirror above her bureau. "Fat chance I'll ever walk down the aisle or have a family of my own with the man shortage since the war." Something deep in the core of her female-self rebelled, a throbbing turbulence, from which deep hunger erupted.

She stroked Leslie's cheek and made a funny face. The softness of his skin melted her heart.

He smiled at her and kicked.

"I'm so sorry. I promised I'd protect you and I can't." She forced a smile and made clucking noises.

He grabbed her hair and yanked.

"Ouch." She laughed, removing strands of her hair from his little fist.

A tear escaped and ran down the side of her cheek. "I can do this." She lifted her chin, sucked in a long breath, wrapped Leslie in a heavy quilt, and picked up his tote bag.

Unseen Talent

2011-12-12T06:06:00.000-08:00

Please allow me to tell you about the Christmas Cantata we sang yesterday. We have an amazing choir. All are untrained, sing from the heart, and give the praise to God. We have all participated in church choirs for years and can usually do what our director asks. There are times we do better than expected and with good reason.

Our director has been blessed with more talent than should be legal. She can hit any note on or off the scale, play any instrument you put in her hand and teach anyone to sing. Those are all talents we can see and hear. But the biggest talent she possesses can't be seen. It is the ability to inspire one to sing. The congregation probably doesn't know why at times our choir goes from good to great in a matter of seconds. It is the look on our director's face. When we are doing well a smile lights up her face bright enough to block out all the overhead lighting.

I have participated in several church choirs and had many directors, but never one who could bring out the best in a choir more than the one I have now. The ability to bring out the best in others is a talent that can't be seen with the human eye, but the spirit can feel it. Everyone should have someone in their life that covers the flaws and polishes the gems until that is all that others see.

Thanks Rosemary for being that person and thanks, God for sending us Rosemary.

Special Offer Begins Today

2011-12-09T05:16:00.000-08:00

Today I want to introduce you to my friend Saundra Dalton-Smith MD.

Saundra Dalton-Smith MD is a board-certified internal medicine physician who has been practicing medicine since 1999. She treats a predominantly female population and has firsthand experience with the struggles women face trying to imitate the American dream. Dr. Dalton-Smith has been an adjunct faculty member at Baker College and Davenport University in Michigan. She teaches courses on health, nutrition, and disease progression. Dr. Dalton-Smith has offered health care from 2002-2007 through the National Health Service Corp. She lives in Alabama with her husband and two boys. She is a committed Christian and passionate about helping others experience freedom in Christ. Visit her blog at gracetolivefree.blogspot.com

Special Christmas Devotional Series based on Set Free to Live Free

She has sent you a special invitation. I will let her say it in her own words.

I want to invite you to join me in creating a new holiday tradition - unwrapping the gift of you each day during the 12 days of Christmas. During these 12 days you will receive an original email devotional based on the principles in Set Free to Live Free: Breaking Through the 7 Lies Women Tell Themselves. You will uncover new truths about who you are in Christ and the gift He has deposited inside of you. We will work together through scripture passages and reflect on the truth it sheds on your value. In addition to unwrapping the gift of you, a wonderful group of authors, life coaches, health coaches and nutritionists have teamed up to offer special gifts ($15-100 gift cards, books, CD's, coaching packages, and more) to those participating in these 12 days! Sign-up at: http://bit.ly/Unwrap

~You can download the entire first chapter of Set Free to Live Free at www.setfreetolivefreebook.com ~