One Fine Day

HIGH PLACES

2019-07-09T13:29:00.002-06:00

Angels Landing is an incredible hike in Zions National Park. The stunning viewpoints, suspended in the clouds are breathtaking and not recommended for anyone with the fear of heights. The trail follows a narrow spine to the final resting place, roughly 1500 feet above the canyon floor. This unforgiving path is not for the faint of heart; it's a courageous challenge to reach the top, only to find oneself clutching a chain on the jagged edge.

When climbing Angels Landing, one careless step can be the end of the journey.

In life, there are many difficult obstacles, don't allow yourself to become one of those obstacles. Choosing the right path and direction is paramount. The formula for unyielding success is 'constantly striving' to stand in high places and 'cautiously avoiding' the surrounding dangers. There is a magnificent view at the top of Angels Landing, but the carelessness of an unconscious step has swept away many. The key in life's journey is to maintain the spiritual equilibrium to avoid losing oneself!
Written by, Linda Sumner Urza for: onefineday11.blogspot.com

2017-02-24T13:03:00.000-07:00

“ONLY A VIRTUOUS PEOPLE ARE CAPABLE OF FREEDOM.” Thomas Jefferson

The principles of freedom 101

Yesterday, I read the book, The 5000 Year Leap,’ by historian W. Cleon Skousen. In fact, I couldn’t put it down. It’s a documentary of the principles of freedom. I was spellbound, speechless and tearful during much of the book. I certainly want my posterity to understand the sacrifices our Founding Fathers endured in preparing the foundation for freedom.

It documents the courses of action our forefathers took in creating the foundation of our country. I am convinced that if our youth are taught the history of our Constitution and the Bill of Rights in depth, they would hold the American flag in the highest esteem, have more integrity in our country and a much greater sense of what it means to be an American!

To set the stage, history documents that Thomas Jefferson was the author of the Declaration of Independence; James Madison was the father of the Constitution; George Mason was the author of the first American Bill of Rights and we know that George Washington was the hero of the war for Independence and the first president of our country. These men “sacrifice everything” to bring to light the possibility of freedom, liberty and justice for all.

I will share only a few historical insights into the lives of these men and their missions to design a nation of peace and prosperity, and I suggest the book as a must read for anyone who considers themselves to be an American. It sheds light on historical facts that many politicians would like to keep in the dark.

These incredibly devoted ‘Founding Fathers’ spent four long months stitching together the very fibers of this country. Their political yardstick: “Communism and Socialism” on the far left and “Fascism and Dictatorship” on far right. By defining these two entities, they were clearly able to create the “balanced center” and establish a “Republic of One Nation Under God.” That’s right, its important to remember this country is a Republic and not a democracy. Their main course of action was establishing a government that served the people with the power belonging to the people!”

Our Founders studied the history of the ancient Israelites and the Anglo-Saxons. Why these two civilizations? Because their peaceful existence and high standards are historical. Their laws were based on the first principles of Moses recored in the book of Deuteronomy.’ Thomas Hooker wrote, “The Fundamental Orders were bases on the first principles of Moses with the first fundamental principle set up as the commonwealth of freemen.”

It is recorded that they were also impressed to learn that whenever the Israelites fell into the temptation to have slaves or bond-servants, they were reprimanded. It’s recorded in 600 B.C. by Jeremiah: “Ye have not hearkened unto me, in proclaiming liberty to every one to his brother, and every man to his neighbor: behold, I proclaim a liberty for you, saith the Lord.” Jeremiah 34:17

They believed in the calling to serve without renumeration. Benjamin Franklin, who assisted in drafting the Constitution, warned of politicians for profit when he said, “...we must not sow the seeds of contention, faction, and tumult, by making our posts of honor a place of profit.” I think about our politicians today asking to raise, their already outrageous salaries, as they contrive to increase taxes.

That’s right, our Founding Fathers were not paid for their services. They believed it an honor and privilege. Many of these men including, James Madison, were living off borrowed funds during the four months assembled in preparing the Constitution. These were men who believed, “here lies the greatest sense of responsibility and duty.”

When George Washington served as general of the Continental army, the common fare for solders for six weeks was flour, water, and salt. In fighting the British, Washington, lost approximately 200 officers and 3,000 men - who abandoned in the line of duty. He went on to lead his men to victory over the powerful British troops. History preserves his great insight and leadership qualities during the war. Upon returning to Mt. Vernon, he found his home in desperate need of repair, yet refused to take a salary during his term as president. These men dedicated their lives to provide a better future for their fellowman and our posterity.

Their insights and inspiration protected the people of this country from destruction, as long as the people remained faithful to the laws and structure of the Constitution. They were deeply concerned about the “Drift toward a Collectivist Left.” They warned against, “a number of temptations which might lure generations to abandon their freedoms and their rights by subjecting themselves to a strong federal administration operating on the collective left,” that of socialism. They warned against, what they referred to as the “Welfare State,” where the government endeavors to take care of everyone from the cradle to the grave. Sound familiar, perhaps they had premonitions of the future!

Thomas Jefferson said, “If we can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people, under the pretense of taking care of them, they will become happy.”

Our Founding Fathers warned against confiscatory taxation and deficit spending. It was Jefferson who said, “ It is immoral for one generation to pass on the results of its extravagance in the form or debt to the next generation. We shall consider ourselves unauthorized to saddle posterity with our debts, and morally bound to pay them ourselves within what may be deemed the period of a generation.’’

Our Founding Fathers also warned, “The only way for the nation to prosper is to have equal protection of rights and not for the government to get involved in trying to provide equal distribution of things.” One would conclude they had divine inspiration and direction in their thoughts to preserve this country.

Samuel Adams stated, “We have done everything possible to make the ideas of socialism and communism unconstitutional. These are Utopian schemes of leveling (redistribution of wealth) which are arbitrary, despotic and, in our government, unconstitutional.”

Before completing the Constitution, our Founding Fathers relied heavily on the teachings of Marcus Tullius Cicero 63 B.C., philosopher, politician, lawyer, orator, political theorist, consul, and constitutionalist of the Roman empire. One of the highest respected men of counsel. Cicero believed in “freedom” - the very freedom that was later taken away from him for opposing the draft of dictatorship.

Our Founding Fathers relied on Cicero teachings and landmark books on the Republic and the Law. Cicero based his studies around the “Natural Law” or law of Moses. This is what our Founding Fathers used to draft the foundation of the constitution. Cicero determined that. “The only reliable bases for sound government and just human relations is Natural Law.” Cicero cut sharply through the errors of Plato and Aristotle to discover the touchstone of good laws, sound government, and the long-range formula for happy human relations by the implementation of the “Natural Law.”

The principles of Natural Law is recognizing and identifying the rules of “right conduct” with the Law of the Supreme Creator of the universe. This law, also known as Moses’ Law or the Ten Commandments concluded that once the reality of the Creator is clearly identified in the mind, the only intelligent approach to government, justice, and human relations is in terms of the laws which the Supreme Creator has already established.

Cicero concluded that the Natural Law is the true law. “True law is right reason in agreement with nature, it’s of universal application, unchanging and everlasting. It summons to duty by its commands, an averts its wrongdoings by its prohibitions. It’s a sin to try to alter this law, nor is it allowable to repeal any part of it. We cannot be freed from its obligations by senate or people, and we need not look outside ourselves for an expounder or interpreter of it. There will be one master and ruler, that is God.”

Our Founding Fathers concluded that the Natural Law that Cicero sustained, is eternal and the base of goodness. The Founders determined that the Natural Law is basic in principle, comprehensible to the human mind, and totally correct and morally right in its general operation. Cicero also stated, “Man is the only animal that shares reason and thought. Reason, when fully grown and perfected, is rightly called wisdom.”

It might be surprising to lean that the Constitution is based on the Ten Commandment and the Natural Laws of God. When writing the Declaration of Independence Thomas Jefferson wrote, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.” (Pre-suppositions under the principles of Natural law.)

The second principle: Our Founding Fathers determined that a corrupt and selfish people could never make the principles of a Republicanism operate successfully. Benjamin Franklin wrote, “Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom. A free people cannot survive under a Republic unless they remain virtuous and morally strong.”

And George Washington praised the American Constitution when he said, “It is a palladium of human rights, but it shall only survive as long as there remain any virtue in the body of the people.”

Reflect a moment on what Samuel Adams, George Washington, Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, George Mason and the others fine patriotic contributors might feel looking upon our dispensation. The reality in how these men sacrificed and struggled to set up the foundation of this country - only to see it becoming defiled by the lack of virtue and ignorance.

Samuel Adams that wrote, “I thank God that I have lived to see my country independent and free. She may long enjoy her independence and freedom if she will. It depends on her virtue.”

Written by, Linda Sumer Urza for onefineday11.blogspot.com

2017-02-09T12:46:00.001-07:00

Love is a Many Splendored Thing.

My depth and understanding of love has changed throughout the years. The older I become, the more I truly understand the meaning of love and its value. When I was a child, love meant being safely protected by parents who secured the world around me. My understanding of love was based on what they had created. Love meant a warm spot on my mother's lap, a bag of penny candy from the corner market and having enough money to buy a 15 cent snow cone on a hot summer's day. It meant playing tetherball with my cousins and having a sleepover at my grandmother's house. I could feel love, it was real and tangible. I realize now, that my perception of love was not about what I gave; rather, it was entirely based on what I was given.

When I was in my teens, I experienced love from the "outside in" and on a very superficial level. Love meant that everything 'revolved' around me. It was not what I could give; rather, it was how much I could gain. At that stage in life, love meant being the pitcher on the soft ball team, getting my driver's license and a date to the prom. It meant spending all my time with friends and not with family, and I was more concerned about my hair, clothes and entertainment then about my future. Love was not about what I deserved, it was what I demanded.

In my thirties, love changed drastically. I had no time to focus on the 'material things' because my children where busy doing that for me. Love meant sitting up nights with a sick child. It meant trying to figure out how to pay for my son's prom and still have money left to pay the electric bill. Love meant swim lessons, soccer practice, football games, Christmas presents, PTA, teachers conference, scouts, birthday parties, car pools, sack lunches, Halloween costumes, battle scars and bandaged knees... It was the kind of love that worked 24/7 washing, cooking and cleaning. There was no time to comb the hair I pampered so diligently in the 60's and I was still wearing the same wardrobe my parents bought me in the 70's! Every ounce of energy and all my resources went to someone else. My big night out on the town was a Little Caesar's five buck pizza and the dollar movies. Love was no longer about what I could gain; rather, it was sincerely hoping there would be something 'left of me to give!' By now I understood the highest level of love, that of sacrifice.

In my forties, I experienced a peaceful kind of love, almost as if I'd arrived or received a higher rank... perhaps Four Star General. It was a tempered kind of love developed from years of patience, long suffering and wisdom, and it took on a completely different role. I learned that I was astonishingly resilient yet, gentle and kind. Love came with ease and it bore the positive fruits of "You bet, sounds great and absolutely!" I wasn't certain if I had attained this level of harmony, or if I'd been beaten into submission, but it was very well received. Experience had taught me to overlook the imperfections in life and let go. I stopped sweating the small stuff and began seeing my own reflection manifesting itself in everything I'd ever done. Whether good or bad, I had created the love surrounding me and it was a very powerful and rewarding experience. The whispers of inadequacy had long faded. I no longer had that nagging desire to save the whales or hug a tree; somehow, I had arrived at the intersection of peace and joy. I was experiencing a magnificent blessing from God, the "love of self!" I was pleased with what I'd created and indeed, love had gone full circle.

In my fifties, I realized that love had developed another depth and it was jubilant... I now had grandchildren! Love meant someone to spoil rotten, fill full of sugar and send home. It was so gratifying! It was the 'love of revenge' for all my sleepless nights bequeath by my teenage children. I was watching my children experience the plan of creation, only now, I was the spectator! Love meant having my cake and eating it too and it was very sweet to the taste. Love was coming from all directions and continually filling up the reservoir that was bone dry from the 70's and 80's. Love had it's dividends and I'd struck pay dirt!

I am in my late sixties now and I have acquired a much deeper and abiding respect for love. I will be making the last few stops along my journey and soon embark on a new destination. I've determined the price of love and conclude that it has surpassed all mortal value! I look back over the span of a lifetime and realize the 'gifts of love' that God granted me are priceless. Through His plan, I've been given the gift of life, the blessings of pro-creation and a lifetime of precious memories. One day, I will approach the threshold of God. It's a daunting thought, that all I have acquired in this life will someday turn to dust, as will my body, when laid to rest. But the thoughts of death are completely overshadowed through the atonement of Christ and the gift of eternal life, His gifts that created the ultimate sacrifices of divine love.

BURNING EMBERS

2015-01-11T19:10:00.000-07:00

A member of the church, who previously had been attending services regularly, stopped going. After a few weeks his bishop decided to visit him. It was a chilly evening and the bishop found the man at home alone sitting before a blazing fire.

Guessing the reason for his bishop’s visit. The man welcomed him in and led him to a comfortable chair near the fireplace. The bishop sat before the fire and not one word was exchanged. In the deafening silence, they stared at the dancing flames surrounding the burning logs. After several minutes the bishop picked up the fire tongs. He carefully lifted a brightly burning piece of wood and placed it to one side of the hearth. Then he sat back in his chair and the two men watch the burning embers dance about the lone piece of wood.

The host was mezmorized by his bishop's actions and sat in quiet contemplation. Within a matter of minutes, the embers struggled to flicker and it began a slow decent into darkness. Within minutes, the brilliant glow that once embodied the wood had completely extinguished and now lie cold and dead upon the fireplace hearth. Not a word was spoken.

The bishop glanced at his watch and realized it was time to leave. He slowly stood up, picked up the tongs and placed the wood back in the middle of the fire. Immediately, it began to glow from within as the brilliantly light from the surrounding coals gave life to the dark embers.

As the bishop reached the door to leave, the man, with tears streaming from his eyes responded,"Thank you, Bishop, for the visit and especially for the fiery sermon. I will be back in church on Sunday."

We live in a world that often tries to say too much with too little and consequently, few listen. Some of the best sermons are when we allow the Lord to speak directly to the heart.

24 DECEMBER 2014

2014-12-24T23:54:00.001-07:00

Today, December 24, 2014, I was on my way to Walmart to finalize some last minute Christmas shopping. Earlier in the week I made a promise to the Lord that I would strive diligently to live more worthy of His example. I wanted this to be my gift to Him, not knowing that I would quickly learn how perfectly He answers prayers.

As I entered the parking lot, I noticed three police officers on bicycles who had stopped to talk to each other. I thought about the two police officers who had been shot, point blank, this past week and I struggled to keep it all in. I couldn’t begin to imagine what their families must be going through and my guts churned with grinding emotions. I wondered how many mornings they’d kissed their loved ones goodbye with a fear of what they might encounter throughout the day.

I thought of my life, a life that had never been in danger or fear, a life protected by others who were willing to do what I was not; good men and women who put their lives in peril to protect me and my own. I stepped out of the car and walked toward the three men. One of the officers looked at me and said, “Ma’am?” My heart was pounding. (I live in a very tight knit community, but in the last few years I’ve watched the dark elements seeping through the cracks and crevasses of this quaint little town.)

I offered in gratitude. “I want to thank you for the hours of service you’ve given to keep our community safe. I imagine many times that you have stepped into the line of fire without thinking about your own safety. Thank you for all you’ve done, each one of you. Merry Christmas and know that many people will sleep well tonight because you’re doing your jobs.” One of the officers responded, “Thank you Ma’am and Merry Christmas to you!”

I entered the store and began browsing through the isles when I overheard an older gentlemen ask the clerk if they had any artificial poinsettias. He said he’d been several places and couldn’t find them anywhere. (I had a tender feeling he wanted to place them on a grave.) When the clerk told him they didn’t have any, I watched his shoulders droop in disappointment, then he thanked the clerk cordially and walked away. I rounded the corner of the next isle and right before me were several rows of plastic poinsettias. I turned around to tell the gentleman, but he’d already disappeared into the crowded isles.

‘How could I find him!’ I thought to myself. I wasn’t even sure I remembered what he looked like for it had all happened so fast, but I was determined. I went up and down each isle staring at unfamiliar faces and just when I was about to give up, I saw him coming down the row directly in front of me.

“I have been looking for you.” I said with excitement. “I found the poinsettias you were asking about, do you still want them?”

“Yes, I do.” He responded and he followed me to the other side of the store.

“I hoped I would find you -- I am so glad you didn’t leave.”

Then he told me something that I was not prepared to hear.

“They’re for my son’s grave.” His voice crackled with a string of painful words that lodged in his throat. Sharp, jagged words that tore open the still tender scars in my heart. I knew too well of the pain and sorrow of untimely death, for not long ago my son had lost his son; a level of pain that cannot be extinguished.

He continued. “He was just 28 years old, with a wife and child; a strapping 230 pound football player; the picture of health and strength... but he was gone in an instant.”

I stopped to listen and then offered what seemed to be too small and insignificant, but it was all I had. “I am so sorry, I know how deep those wounds are and I feel your pain. My heart goes out to you...would you share with me what happened?”

“He died from colon cancer, can you imagine, he was so young.” He paused for a moment and then continued, seemingly out of breath. “It never gets any easier, it’s been 17 years and it still feels like yesterday.” His eyes glassed over and his sorrow was still clearly visible.

“I am sad to hear of your loss.” I began to move my cart forward as he followed close behind. I lead him around the corner to the poinsettias and he seemed delighted. “Thank you so much, I’m really grateful, it’s nice to know people care.”

“You’re so welcome, I do care and I will keep you in my prayers.”

I turned my shopping cart in the opposite direction to leave, when I heard the still small voice of the Lord whispering to me.,“That’s not enough.”

At that very moment, I turned back and wrapped my arms around this sweet man.

“I care, I care very much and I know the weight of your burden -- I want you to know you’re not alone.”

I could feel his chest heaving with emotion and I didn't let go until I was certain he felt my love for him. “Merry Christmas my friend!” I said. "And may God bless you."

I left the store with a deeper understanding of the power of God’s love and how it manifests itself through one of His most powerful commandments to "love one another.”

(Merry Christmas, Tristin, may God be with you until we meet again! I will love you forever my dear one and that is a very, very long time! Grandma)

THE HEART OF CHRISTMAS

2014-12-20T21:55:00.002-07:00

SEIZE THE MOMENT

2014-11-25T07:02:00.000-07:00

"How much do we notice as we go through a day," was asked of Lisa Beamer on Good Morning America. If you remember, she's the wife of Todd Beamer who said "Let's Roll!' and helped take down the plane over Pennsylvania that was heading for Washington, DC back on 9/11.

She said it's the little things that she misses most about Todd, such as hearing the garage door open as he came home and her children running to meet him.

Lisa recalled this story: "I had a very special teacher in high school many years ago whose husband died suddenly of a heart attack. About a week after his death, she shared some of her insight with a classroom of students."

As the late afternoon sunlight came streaming in through the classroom windows and the class was nearly over, she moved a few things aside on the edge of her desk and sat down. With a gentle look of reflection on her face, she paused and said, 'Class is over, I would like to share with all of you a thought that is unrelated to class, but which I feel is very important. Each of us is put here on earth to learn, share, love, appreciate and give of ourselves. None of us knows when this fantastic experience will end. It can be taken away at any moment. Perhaps this is God's way of telling us that we must make the most out of every single day.’ Her eyes, beginning to water, she continued, 'so I would like you all to make me a promise. From now on, on your way to school or on your way home, find something beautiful to notice. It doesn't have to be something you see, it could be a scent of freshly baked bread wafting out of someone's house, or the sound of the breeze slightly rustling the leaves in the trees, or the way the morning light catches one autumn leaf as it falls gently to the ground. Please look for these things and cherish them, for although it may sound trite to some, these things are the "stuff" of life; the little things we are put here on earth to enjoy. The things we often take for granted.’

When she finished talking, the class was completely quiet. We all picked up our books and filed out of the room silently. That afternoon, I noticed more things on my way home from school than I had that whole semester. Every once in a while, I think of that teacher and remember what an impression she made on all of us and I try to appreciate all of those things that are sometimes overlooked.

Today take notice of something special you see on your lunch hour. Go barefoot or walk on the beach at sunset. Stop off on the way home tonight to get a double dip ice cream cone. For as we get older, it is not the things we did that we often regret...its the things we didn't do that could have made all the difference in the world.

THESE ARE THE THINGS I'M THANKFUL FOR

2014-11-17T19:12:00.004-07:00

What I’m thankful for isn’t on a list.

It only in my heart exists.

And time has helped me understand

the things I can’t hold in my hand.

For those who came before my turn,

from whom I gathered lessons learned.

Help light the path that lies ahead,

I see each time I bow my head.

I am thankful for the Lord above.

His blessings of eternal love.

And a promise kept that there’s something more...

These are the things I’m thankful for.

YES, I WAS DRUGGED AS A CHILD

2014-07-28T12:26:00.002-06:00

The other day, someone at a store in our town read that a methamphetamine lab had been found in an old farmhouse in the adjoining county and he asked me a rhetorical question,

"Why didn't we have a drug problem when you and I were growing up? "

I replied: I had a drug problem when I was young: I was drug to church on Sunday morning. I was drug to church for weddings and funerals.

I was drug to family reunions and community socials no matter the weather. I was drug by my ears when I was disrespectful to adults.

I was also drug to the woodshed when I disobeyed my parents, told a lie, brought home a bad report card, did not speak with respect, spoke ill of the teacher or the preacher, or if I didn't put forth my best effort in everything that was asked of me.

I was drug to the kitchen sink to have my mouth washed out with soap if I uttered a profane four-letter word. I was drug out to pull weeds in mom's garden and flower beds and cockleburs out of dad's fields.

I was drug to the homes of family, friends, and neighbors to help out some poor soul who had no one to mow the yard, repair the clothesline, or chop some firewood; and, if my mother had ever known that I took a single dime as a tip for this kindness, she would have drug me back to the woodshed.

Those drugs are still in my veins; and they affect my behavior in everything I do, say, and think.

They are stronger than cocaine, crack, or heroin; and, if today's children had this kind of drug problem, America would be a better place. (AUTHOR UNKNOWN)

WHO'S LEADING WHO?

2014-07-23T16:19:00.002-06:00

We should never allow ourselves to believe that the Lord just accepts us as we are, that was never a part of the program. He has always asked us to change, to repent, to get better, and to overcome the things that cause us to sin. When we stop aligning our will with Heavenly Father, thinking that He will align His will with us, that's when we have lost our way. For we are not the appointed counsel to Father in Heaven, He is ours.

19 OF 21 CIVILIZATIONS HAVE FALLEN

2014-06-23T11:03:00.002-06:00

An ominous warning was voiced by Laurence M. Gould, former president of Carleton College:

"I do not believe the greatest threat to our future is from bombs or guided missiles. I don’t think our civilization will die that way. I think it will die when we no longer care."

Arnold Toynbee, a British economic historian, has pointed out that 19 of 21 civilizations have died from within and not by conquest from without. There were no bands playing and flags waving when these civilizations decayed. It happened slowly, in the quiet and the dark when no one was aware; people become apathetic, ignoring the truth, as the slow evil of decay surrounds them.

A lie doesn't become a truth, a wrong doesn't become a right and a evil doesn't become good, just because it's accepted by a majority.

THE DEFINING RESULTS OF A GOOD LIFE

2014-05-20T09:39:00.004-06:00

I remember clearly the deaths of three men. One was the richest man of the century, who, having clawed his way to wealth through the souls and bodies of men, spent many years trying to buy back the love he had forfeited and by that process performed great service to the world and, perhaps, had much more than balanced the evils of his rise. I was on a ship when he died. The news was posted on the bulletin board, and nearly everyone received the news with pleasure. Several said, "Thank God that son of a b.... is dead."

There was a man, smart as Satan, who, lacking some perception of human dignity and knowing all too well every aspect of human weakness and wickedness, used his special knowledge to warp men, to buy men, to bribe and threaten and seduce until he found himself in a position of great power. He clothed his motives in the name of virtue, and I have wondered whether he knew that no gift will ever buy back a man's love when you have removed his self-love. A bribed man can only hate his briber. When this man died the nation rang with praise and, just beneath, with gladness that he was dead.

There was a third man, who perhaps made many errors in performance, but whose effective life was devoted to making men brave and dignified and good in a time when they were poor and frightened and when ugly forces were loose in the world to utilize those fears. This man was hated by the few. When he died the people burst into tears in the streets and their minds wailed, "What can we do now? How can we go on without him?"

In uncertainty I am certain that underneath their topmost layers of frailty men want to be good and want to be loved. Indeed, most of their vices are attempted short cuts to love. When a man comes to die, no matter what his talents and influence and genius, if he dies unloved his life must be a failure to him and his dying a cold horror. It seems to me that if you or I must choose between two courses of thought or action, we should remember our dying and try to live that our death brings no pleasure to the world.

"Which man are you?"

My favorite words from John Steinbeck's, East of Eden

THANKS TO MY CHILDREN

2014-05-10T23:19:00.000-06:00

Today is Mother's Day and I want to take time to thank my children for making life so sweet. My children are my best friends and there's no one I'd rather spend time with than family. So, here's to the ones that made the difference in my life!

Thank you for your love and kindness, especially your examples of genuine care and concern for others. Many times I have witnessed your willingness to assist strangers in need, without judgement or conditions; you inspire me with your generosity and I hope to grow up to be just like all of you!

Thanks for the "goofy sense of humor and practical jokes" that you have kept in perpetual motion! I have enjoyed a lifetime of laughter and there's never a dull moment when we're together. The hilarious skits and talents you have shared over the years has given me a lifetime of cherished memories! My favorite is when each one of you kept changing the screen saver on my phone to your goofy selfies and writing across the screen, "MOM LOVES ME BEST!" I never knew who's picture would pop up next. How in the world you got my phone without me knowing is still a mystery and yes you are right, I ALWAYS loved you best!

Thanks for the great food and believe it or not, the boys can out cook the girls. Sorry girls, but it's true. Your brothers bring it on every time. Not that you aren't great cooks, cause you are, but they seem to be fearless!

Thanks for being wonderful parents and for teaching your children honesty and self respect. I guess all those times you were grounded and had to work your way out of the "dog house" has taught you the value and importance of choice and accountability. Sweeeeeeet and passing it on to the second generation, no less!

Thanks for supporting a strong work ethic and for not being afraid to apply yourselves. You've always stood head and shoulders above mediocre and if I've said it once, I've said it a thousand times, "Quitters never win and winners never quit." Thanks for pushing yourselves; the picture of success is always much clearer at the top.

Thanks for calling and texting me everyday! There is nothing better for a mother than to get a messages from her child that says, "Where the heck are you??? I am trying to get ahold of you and you're not answering your phone, I am worried! Contact me right away." Ha, I am just getting back at you for all those teenage years when I said the same things to you!

I laugh every time I think that during high school, some of you spent months plotting to get out of the house... and the rest of your lives trying to get back in!!! Guess I got the last laugh on that one!

I don't have words to express how much I love each one of you and I wouldn't change a thing. When you were younger, the tears in life built strength and wisdom, the struggles brought about loyalty and devotion, and the laughter just made it all worth it! Thanks again for the best run of my life! I love each of you with all my heart. Hugs and kisses, Mom

P.S. The best gifts you ever gave me were the grandchildren. Couldn't be more proud of them!

EVERY LITTLE THING MATTERS

2014-05-04T12:26:00.002-06:00

Kindness is the universal language that brings us all together, and regardless of our nationality or language, everyone can feel its power. Kindness is about showing up in the live's of others for the greater good, and expecting nothing in return. A study by Rowland and Curry in 2019 found that people who performed acts of kings for seven days experienced greater happiness, and it created a tremendous ripple effect that inspired others to act the same. Showing kindness also increases gratitude; one small tree can produce a million match sticks providing light and warmth to many.

A kind environment is the foundation for peace and harmony in the home and workplace. Kindness is intentional and it's created

out of self-love, self-respect and self-esteem. Love and kindness

are two gifts that only increase in value when they are given

away.

Every creation in life has meaning and purpose. When climbing the ladder of success, we will pass by many people on the way up, but we will also pass those same people on the way down. Be kind and good to those around you, and you will find an abundance of love and kindness in return. No act of kindness, no matter how small is ever wasted, and the sweet secret of life is, "all that is worth doing, is that which we do for others."

Kindness also accompanies gratitude. There is nothing more valued and respected than a heart filled with gratitude. Gratitude is a powerful virtue that can change darkness into light. Remember the Bees: Be good, Be kind, Be loving, Be humble and Be grateful, and you will always be BE-UTI-FUL. Linda Sumner Urza, onefineday11.blogspot.com

TAKE 2 OF THESE & CALL ME IN THE MORNING

2014-04-09T23:12:00.001-06:00

There seems to be a drug available today for every ailment imaginable, but maybe taking more medication is not always the answer. The dangerous side effects from drugs can often outweigh the consequence of the illness. Have you read any of the warning labels on prescription drugs lately? Only a science fiction thriller could create a scenario more frightening than the effects these drugs have on the human body.

Drug companies are constantly working to promote more drugs. That's why they're in business, they only see dollar signs $$$, but are drugs the only solution? There's detailed health information available at our finger tips on the internet. Do the home work!

We are constantly being bombarded by the media with drug "cure alls" and the commercials on depression and anxiety are relentless. I get depressed just watching them. When I was a child, people were too busy for despair. We had chores, school, paper routes, band practice, and homework. Each family member carried their load and worked hard to make life better. We actually engaged in "a real life" because our parents taught us that the future of this country depended upon our success.

I am not saying that all medications are bad, but I think it’s imperative to understand the side effects they induce, which in many cases are far worse than the illness.

My how things have changed! I remember four things I worried about as a child: a stomach ache, the common cold, a sore throat and getting bit by Mrs. Greenstreet’s snotty nosed, rat haired dog! The only time we were taken to the doctor was for a gapping flesh wound or when someone stopped breathing, and occasionally someone stopped breathing when they realized they had a gapping flesh wound.

Mother's were creative and used band aides, ginger ale, cod liver oil, heating pads, ice packs and ace bandages. The statistics for my generation rebounding without medical attention was greater than those who succumbed to a doctor's care (which meant, less people relied on a doctor and without incident).

Very few people went to the dentist. As a matter of fact, there was only one in the entire city and that was Doc Labine, who also doubled as the sports announcer. Loose teeth were pulled by an older brother who tied a piece of string to the door knob and then slammed it with a certain amount of pleasure. Occasionally a pair of pliers was used for a stubborn molar. My mother used hot salt water to soak and cleanse our wounds, including a few drops to treat eye infections or clearing a stuffy nose. A trip to the doctor was very rare and it had to be absolutely necessary; the fee was usually around $10.00. Today, with the high cost of health care, the only doctors we can afford to see are the ones on TV.

I have listed a few random side effects from the most common drugs on the market today. Secure yourself, its not a pretty picture. Inflammation of the stomach, loss of sight, temporary loss of breathing, insomnia, diarrhea, pain in extremities, difficulty swallowing, ulcerated stomach or esophagus, trouble concentrating, loss of memory and dry mouth. Take a deep breath, it gets worse. Swollen tongue, kidney problems, liver problems, trouble emptying your bladder, chest pain, seizure, muscle weakness, swollen glands, confusion, excessive bleeding or bruising and the worst imaginable side effect ever is that of anal seepage. WHOA, WHOA, WHOA, stop right there! Anal seepage? No thank you!

There are three drugs that increase the warnings listed above. They were treatments for arthritis, psoriasis, and a virus vaccine for children. Nothing too serious, right? Hummmm, I don’t know about you, but I'll take all three conditions at the SAME TIME, before I want to experience any of these side effect. For me, its a no brainer!

Here are some simple remedies for the most common complaints:

Insomnia: If you can’t sleep at night, maybe 5 cups of coffee and 6 caffeine drinks a day are not the best options for you, try switching to a sip of common sense. Maybe you could ask your spouse to explain their job responsibilities, you’ll find yourself asleep in no time. Another recommendation is to read the scriptures, you'll drift into a peaceful slumber and be blessed for having done so.

Stiffness and joint pain: Check out the birthdate on your drivers license, you may just be old and decrepit. Then try walking for a change, it increases endorphin levels, raises the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream, burns calories and provides a healthy dose of vitamin D. Honestly, its much better to gaze into the open sky than to sit around staring at your dusty feet.

Anxiety: Get up, get out and get busy. Anxiety is brought on by a chemical change that occurs in the body, usually induced by stress. The best way to eliminate anxiety is to do something kind for someone else (lose yourself in the service of others). It will lift your spirit and their's as well.

Depression: Nordstrom, Macys, and TJmaxx! Take a trip to your favorite store, it's cheaper than seeing a therapist and you'll have something glamorous to hang in your closet! Also, the lack of proper nutrition and trace minerals can render a person helpless. Get plenty of rest, good nutrition, and remember that vitamins and trace minerals are essential. Also, develop an exercise routine, get off your tush. Strive to eliminate the negative influences in your life. You may need to choose new friends or keep the negative family members at a distance.

Constipation: Open all your bills at once, that should do it! If that doesn't work, drink more water and increase your fiber intake. Soluble and insoluble fiber are the keys to a healthy intestine. No hemorrhoids here!

Head aches: Take two Twinkies and call me in the morning. Seriously, most headaches are caused from dehydration. Drink plenty of water and stay away from people who are a pain in the you know what!

Remember, LAUGHING is the best medicine in the world. Surround yourself with people who love life and laughter, they are the antidote for misery.

By Linda Sunmer Urza written for: onefineday11.blogspot.com

WHO ARE THE REAL SUPERHEROES?

2014-03-22T11:23:00.001-06:00

My parents raised me with the ideals that I could become anything I desired in this life. They taught that the only thing that would hold me back was if I stopped striving for excellence. Their faith in me instilled a deep desire to succeed, even at a very young age. I strived to reach my goals and I believed that the possibilities were endless. I watched Superman, Wonder Woman and Batman blaze trails of glory through the sky while fighting the evil nemesis and always protecting the innocent.

One fine day, my brother convinced me that I could fly through the air like Superman. Either he wanted to test my limits, literally, or he was in it for a good laugh! He put an army blanket around my shoulders, pinned the two ends together with an extra large kilt pin, and helped me climb a ladder leading to the roof of my grandmother's chicken coop. I was all in, I mean, I was 100% certain that I was going to fly through the air! My brother watched eagerly and with great anticipation as I adjusted my cape, raised my arms above my head, and leaped into the air!

I remember the immediate shock and disappointment that came when I realized I was going down, not up! I hit the cold, hard ground with a thud that knocked the wind out of me, along with a few bodily fluids! Although I didn't soar through the sky, the impact was so intense that the sun, the stars and the moon were all spinning around in my head. It hurt! It hurt so bad that I couldn't stop screaming, but the real pain came from the sharp reality that I couldn't fly or even hover for a split second!

My mother came running out the front door in response to my blood curdling screams and my brother flew like a bat out of hell when he saw the look on her face! He quickly disappeared into the neighborhood to escape the wrath he knew he had coming.

My mother tended to my wounds, as I tearfully explained the events leading up to my failed attempt to hurl myself into space. She listened patiently while I dramatically professed my super duper version of the story and of course, declare my brother's responsibility for everything that had happened. Then, I humbly requested, "Aren't you gonna find him and punish him?" What I really wanted her to do was lock him up until he was an old man with a white beard and creepy long fingernails, but out of her great wisdom and patience she sweetly declared, "He'll be home soon, it's almost dinner time and he'll get hungry."

This was my first recollection of the power of "cause and effect." Through her infinite wisdom, my mother kindly inquired, "What part did you play in this unfortunate incident?" I wanted desperately to remain the innocent victim and to bury myself in self pity and denial. 'It couldn't possibly be my fault,' I thought to myself, all my intentions were good! My first reaction was to blame my brother for everything; after all, someone had to pay the price for my injuries. My mother, however, had loftier goals for us that day. Her unconditional love and wisdom shaped our lives and we realized many valuable lessons through this one experience; certainly not from falling off the chicken coop onto the hard ground, but through the soft manor in which she responded to our trials. She elevated us to a higher level of understanding by her actions and through the examples she set.

Later that day, my brother slithered through the back door like a little green snake in the grass. My mother didn't scold, shame, or belittle him. She responded in a genuine desire to teach the greater lessons of patience and love, by allowing each of us to take responsibility for our actions. She healed our wounds from the inside out and taught us to be responsible and accountable for ourselves, as well as, for each other.

Instead of turning this experience into a courtroom drama, she used it for an opportunity for growth. She explained to my brother, since I was injured from the fall and he had made the choice to flee the scene of the accident, he would be doing my chores until I recovered from a slight concussion. She was smooth as butter with her comments, that rolled off her tongue like sweet honey pouring from a hot glass jar. Without one word of anger or disdain, she had taught the valuable lessons of cause and effect, along with accountability.

The memory that stands out the most for me was not an extreme fall onto the cold hard ground, but the soft touch of a mother's love for her children. A love that was kind and respectful, and delivered with great consideration of the age and maturity of her young children. She made it possible for my brother and I to accepted responsibility, apologize to one another, and again become comrades in a plot to conquer the world.

Parents have wonderful opportunities to teach their children, but unfortunately these opportunities often come as trials in day to day living. It's important for parents to shift from “punishment” to the “opportunity of teaching" principles that hold children accountable. When addressing issues through patience and love, it releases the child from feeling that they are bad or unloved. (Punishment and blame take the circumstances from bad to worse.) Teaching good principles inspires children to learn greater virtues and provides them with the opportunities to choose better options. It also allows them to build self esteem and self reliance.

Parents who resort to anger, shame, ridicule, blame, punishment, name calling, or violence, teach their children that these damaging actions are acceptable for solving problems. Bullies begat bullies. Severe punishment and ridicule will break the spirit of a child, inevitably producing fear, hate, and anger. Negative actions are the cause and effect of negative people, and its important to remember that children inevitably emulate the actions of their parents.

Superman is still one of my favorite heros. There are days when I leap tall buildings in a single bound, fight off the evil nemesis, and still have dinner ready and on the table by dusk! Superman had the advantages of flying through the air, but a mother’s influence rules the world in raising a nation.

I discovered through the loving arms of wonderful parents that I didn't need a cape to fly. I believe that heros aren't formed in the womb, they are nurtured and loved by parents who change the world and the generations to come. For parents have the power to make all the difference in the world. Let me rephrase that, "Parents have all the power to make the world different!" Written by Linda Sumner Urza for: onefineday11.blogspot.com

DID YOU TRADE GOOD FOR EVIL?

2014-02-27T10:51:00.003-07:00

There are a million truths in this life to aspire after and this quote certainly is one of them. "A lie doesn't become truth, wrong doesn't become right and evil doesn't become good, just because it's accepted by the majority!" Truth never changes, it was perfectly created and established by God.

Remember the old adage, "Don't sell your soul for a mess of pottage," meaning don't buy into the lies and degradation that will pull you away from the universal and eternal truths of the Almighty. It was He who established and declared the rules and guidelines, not man.

There are many people wandering aimlessly in this world, proselyting without light and truth. They make up their own rules to fit their lifestyle and then work feverishly to pull others into their snare, for misery loves company. The world will sell you a mess of pottage in the form of a bag of lies, in order to enlist you in the army of fools.

Isaiah 5:20 "Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter."

I have taught my children, " If you don't stand for something you'll fall for everything. When you stand a little taller than all the rest, you see over their heads and the view becomes crystal clear." Linda Sumner Urza, written for onefineday11.blogspot.com

WHEN LOVE IS

2014-02-13T21:20:00.001-07:00

I have always told my family,

"I will love you forever

and that my dear ones will be throughout the eternities!"

DOES YOUR CHILD HAVE A SENSE OF ENTITLEMENT?

2014-02-02T10:47:00.002-07:00

“Today, most of the children in this country suffer from a false sense of entitlement and it's becoming a disturbing epidemic among our youth.” This statement was the conclusion during a conference for the leading Child Development experts.

If you believe the more you give your child the better parent you are, then your battle will be long and hard. When you take away the adversities and struggles of life, you deny your children the opportunity to reach their full potential. Take a look at many of the youth today, they have it all, yet they are hell bent on destruction. For many of them everything revolves around, “What’s in it for me!”

A false sense of entitlement teaches children that they have the right to expensive toys, electronic gadgets, trips and cars without having to earn them. Many neglect their responsibilities in school, yet expect their parents to buy them expensive head phones, cell phones and even cars. Some try to convince their parents that they are less of a parent if they don't give them what they want and regardless of the family’s financial situation. The attitude of a child with a false sense of entitlement is, “I exist, therefore you owe me.”

THINGS do not bring happiness, in truth, the more you teach a child “to do for themselves and on their own,” the more responsible they become, and as parents that’s when you reap the rewards. It will be well worth the time invested to teach your child to do everything they possibly can for themselves (which is the major responsibility of great parenting)!

Parents often over compensate for issues they feel guilty about, such as working long hours or even divorce. Some parents feel the need to pacify their children with cell phones, video games and over priced merchandise, but that is not what is best for them. We can give a child things until we are blue in the face, but that doesn't address the real issue. In reality, we are hurting them, and society as a whole suffers through the actions of children who eventually become irresponsible adults. Trials and tribulations allow a children to develop the strength and value of character. Today we are raising kids who have little values, no coping skills and they have an unrealistic expectation of life. We are sending the message that they deserve material things as a price for facing adversity. They begin to feel a sense of entitlement for privileges they have not earned. Believe it or not, children are very intuitive to your motives and quickly learn how to manipulate you at an early age. When you give in, tantrums in the store and absurd demands for material things become a reward for unacceptable behavior.

Stop believing that the more you give the more you’ll get. The best way for you to eliminate a child's sense of entitlement is to put them to work. You work hard for your money and this is probably a concept that your child does not understand. Its vitally important to teach children to work hard. Self respect, self reliance, self motivation and self worth are developed and cultivated through work ethics. One of the greatest gifts you can give a child is a responsible work ethic, and this starts early in childhood by providing ways for children to earn their way in life. There are great characteristics developed through hard work and children gain a greater sense of value and integrity when they learn to apply themselves. (Children need to see that integral connection between making an honest effort and the reward of achieving success.) Our society is filled with youth who believe their parents owe them a living and when they grow up, they expect the world owes them one as well. This skewed view is going to affect them in a negative way their entire lives.

When children earn what they are used to getting for nothing, they learn the value of a dollar. When they pay for their own toys and clothing, they are more likely to take care of them because they know how hard they worked to get them. When kids have a false sense of entitlement, they don’t see the world as it is because money and material goods become their major attraction. When they are given everything without the responsibility of earning them, the natural incentive and drive to achieve is taken away. Within time they will stop putting forth any efforts to strive for even the simplest goals. Their view of the world will be, “If I want it, someone will give it to me”—but as we all know, that’s just not the way the world functions. Eventually, when this child leaves home to make a life of their own, they will not have the strong work ethics to succeed in the adult world. (Sadly, you will often see older children living with their parents late into adulthood because life is easiest for them under someone else’s care.)

Parents are not their children's buddies! There are those parents who try to be their child's friend and consequently they will often buy their children things because they’re afraid they’ll lose that friendship. This is really serious. This kind of relationship is very harmful to the mental well-being of the child and detrimental to a healthy parent-child relationship. Parents are the adult guardians, leaders, and mentors for their children and not playmates!

How do you challenge the false sense of entitlement in kids and why is it so important to do so? It’s critical to challenge them because once a child grows up and goes out into the real world, they won’t have the “true grit” it takes to succeed or the maturity to deal with failure! It’s important to start young and teach your children the value of earning the privilege to buy their own things. When material possessions are handed to a child, the message is, “You don’t need to do anything—everything will be given to you in life just because you’re you.”

Don't pacify your children with things because you think their lives are not perfect! Nobody’s life is perfect and kids are more resilient than you think. Take a proactive approach to raising your children and set realistic expectations for them. Being a good parent is really more simple than you might think because the only investment you need to make when they're young, is your “time.” If you take the time to teach correct principles when they're young, they will attain the attributes and virtues that inevitably make them a responsibly adult.

Take a stand and wean your child from entitlement. The first step is to change your mind set. If you truly love them then your primary concern will be to raise children who are well rounded and capable of dealing with adversity. That means raising children who accept responsibility for their grades, their rooms, their belongings, ect., and understand that making a valid contribution to their family is indeed their responsibility. Remember that following through is the tipping point to success, as well as, allowing children to suffer the consequences of their choices (they will learn more from a few minutes of experience than hours of lectures).

Its all about time. Life is busy. Parents sometimes try to find the easy way out and resort to expressing their love through material things. Children are creatures of habit. If this has been your approach to expressing your love, your child will feel entitled. You will need to change this mind set and invest your time to turn the ship around. Make “time” to do the things that add value to your child’s life. The little things matter, such as having your child read a book to you while you’re fixing dinner; find all the ways you can to enlist their energy in a productive way. Have a schedule or set time for chores and STICK TO THEM! If you don’t follow through then you will be teaching that its not important to finish a job. Also, quality time is important, so be engaged and show interest in something that they like, it validates them and adds a sense of importance. Occasionally, take the time to just chat with your child and let them lead the conversation. Even at a young age they will have the desire to be heard.

Teach your children the importance of Charity. They become less egocentric when they learn to share. They need to learn first hand how serving others increases gratitude and it allows them to understand thankfulness. Find a charity that you and your family can physically contribute to and become proactive in teaching the power of giving. It does not matter if you have a little or a lot, there is always something that you can do to teach your children the importance of charity. Raising a child that understands charity is by far the most fulfilling experience a parent can have. A charitable person is more valuable than wealth, education, or beauty.

Charity creates gratitude. Children who have a sense of entitlement lack gratitude. They develop negative attitudes and seldom appreciate what others do for them. Complaining becomes their main source of communication, nothing is ever good enough. Children are happier when they learn to appreciate life and gratitude is one of the most rewarding virtues that a parent can nurture. Remember that children learn appreciation and gratitude by the way they are treated! Be careful not to have a sense of entitlement when enlisting your children's time and energy, be respectful and thankful for their efforts and good works, they will learn from your examples. Children with gratitude learn to make small contributions in life and appreciation becomes a second nature.

Ask Yourself, “What Do I Want My Child to Learn?” Whenever you want to get a message across to your children, it’s important to think through what is important to teach them. Ask yourself, “What do I want my children to learn from this experience; something valuable that can help them achieve success later in life?” Then come up with a procedure that will teach them how to achieve their goals. It's your job as a parent to prepare them for a mature adulthood.

Have limits. I think it’s important to put limits on what you give your children. Don’t feel as if you need to give them every little thing they ask for, even if “all the other kids have one.” I think it’s also a good idea to talk as a family and let everyone know that there is not an infinite supply of money at your fingertips. Responsible money doesn’t grow on trees and it isn't free for the taking. Tell them that, as parents, you both work to make money to support the family. Explain that you trade your time for money to keep a roof over head and put food on the table. Its important for them to know how they can contribute.

Tell Your Child the New Rules. If you have the financial capability and you believe in the concept of paying kids to do work around the house, then I personally think it’s better to give your child money for doing odd jobs rather than a weekly allowance. This way, they will learn how to manage their finances and make the connection between work and payment. However, children shouldn’t receive money until their assignment is completed. If your child doesn’t comply, pay their siblings to do the work and I can almost guarantee they will understand the price of “choice and accountability” when the money is being handed out.

I believe that a false sense of entitlement affects every strata of society today. Children who grow up with a sense of entitlement won't take the jobs that are available. They have the belief that they're entitled to something better without having to make any effort to get it. That false sense of entitlement prohibits them from getting the work skills and social skills they need to start at the bottom and work their way up.

Teach your child that needs are quite different from wants. When we examine our own motivation behind our desire to buy more stuff for our kids, we can move into being a strong parent who develops values in our children that will take them into adulthood. We are setting the stage for managing the many ups and downs, injuries and injustices life brings about. The acquisition of more material goods does not build character. Instead it creates a dependence on spending sprees for a faults sense of identity, and it never satisfies. The next time you feel the need to purchase something for your child, remind yourself that your child needs to survive in this world through their strength of spirit, values, integrity and good character. By Linda Sumner Urza written for: onefineday11.blogspot.com

IF I WERE THE DEVIL

2014-01-29T12:45:00.000-07:00

A prophetic warning in 1965 for a nation in trouble.

PAUL HARVEY’S ‘IF I WERE THE DEVIL’ TRANSCRIPT
If I were the devil … If I were the Prince of Darkness, I’d want to engulf the whole world in darkness. And I’d have a third of it’s real estate, and four-fifths of its population, but I wouldn’t be happy until I had seized the ripest apple on the tree — Thee. So I’d set about however necessary to take over the United States. I’d subvert the churches first — I’d begin with a campaign of whispers. With the wisdom of a serpent, I would whisper to you as I whispered to Eve: ‘Do as you please.’

“To the young, I would whisper that ‘The Bible is a myth.’ I would convince them that man created God instead of the other way around. I would confide that what’s bad is good, and what’s good is ‘square.’ And the old, I would teach to pray, after me, ‘Our Father, which art in Washington…’

“And then I’d get organized. I’d educate authors in how to make lurid literature exciting, so that anything else would appear dull and uninteresting. I’d threaten TV with dirtier movies and vice versa. I’d pedal narcotics to whom I could. I’d sell alcohol to ladies and gentlemen of distinction. I’d tranquilize the rest with pills.

“If I were the devil I’d soon have families that war with themselves, churches at war with themselves, and nations at war with themselves; until each in its turn was consumed. And with promises of higher ratings I’d have mesmerizing media fanning the flames. If I were the devil I would encourage schools to refine young intellects, but neglect to discipline emotions — just let those run wild, until before you knew it, you’d have to have drug sniffing dogs and metal detectors at every schoolhouse door.

“Within a decade I’d have prisons overflowing, I’d have judges promoting pornography — soon I could evict God from the courthouse, then from the schoolhouse, and then from the houses of Congress. And in His own churches I would substitute psychology for religion, and deify science. I would lure priests and pastors into misusing boys and girls, and church money. If I were the devil I’d make the symbols of Easter an egg and the symbol of Christmas a bottle.

“If I were the devil I’d take from those who have, and give to those who wanted until I had killed the incentive of the ambitious. And what do you bet? I couldn’t get whole states to promote gambling as thee way to get rich? I would caution against extremes and hard work, in Patriotism, in moral conduct. I would convince the young that marriage is old-fashioned, that swinging is more fun, that what you see on TV is the way to be. And thus I could undress you in public, and I could lure you into bed with diseases for which there is no cure. In other words, if I were the devil I’d just keep right on doing on what he’s doing. Paul Harvey, good day.”

Paul Harvey began broadcasting from the ABC affiliate WENR after he moved to Chicago in June 1944. Harvey added ‘The Rest of the Story’ as a tagline to in-depth feature stories in 1946. WENR and WLS used the same frequency, 890 kHz, in a time-sharing agreement until 1954 when ABC bought 50 percent of WLS and merged the two stations. WENR was then defunct, but the call letters are used today by a radio station in Englewood, Tennessee broadcasting on 1090 kHz.

SECOND ESTATE

2014-01-21T20:07:00.000-07:00

“It thus appears that the declaration of lineage by patriarchs is as such a statement as to who and what we were, as it is who we are now and what we may become. There are those, of course, who believe otherwise. Those who propose that premortality has little or nothing to do with mortality, that there is no tie between faithfulness there and lineage and station here; to believe in any other way, they contend, is racist or exclusivistic. In my view, if there is no relationship between the first estate and the second, why should I believe there is any relationship between what I do here and what I will receive here after?

Those who come to the earth through the lineage of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob do so with an inner attraction toward light and truth; they have a predisposition to receive the truth and abide by that truth. They may, in fact, choose in mortality to turn a deaf ear to the message of the gospel or to the principles of righteousness; they may harden their hearts and close their minds and thereby live beneath their spiritual privileges. But if they hearken to the LIght of Christ and follow their conscience, they shall, either in this or in the next, be led to the higher light of the Holy Ghost found in the covenant gospel. Robert Millet: Professor of ancient scriptures

BREAKING GOOD

2014-01-03T16:56:00.001-07:00

When I was a young girl my mother told me that one of the most important things to remember was, "Your reputation goes before you and either warns people that you are coming or is a pleasant surprise that you will soon be there." Good words to live by!

It's difficult to go back and repair one's reputation when the damage has already been done. Each step we take leaves a deep imprint in history and not easily erased.

For 2014 New Year's resolution, try making a commitment to love every experience that is placed before you. You may be pleasantly surprise to learn, with a paradigm shift, that through struggles and opposition we have the power to create peace and prosperity.

Linda Sumner Urza: onefineday11.blogspot.com

THE FLIGHT HOME

2013-12-29T15:28:00.001-07:00

Years ago, a friend told me a story about the most frightening, yet thought-provoking experience of his life. His executive responsibilities had taken him all over the country and around the world, but one particular flight had completely changed his perspective on life.

He told of an experience that he’d had on one particular flight. A severe rain storm had seized the plane and caused fear to overcome his otherwise rational thinking. The first warning of the approaching problems came when the sign on the airplane flashed on: Fasten your seat belts. Then, after a while, a calm voice said, "We shall not be serving beverages at this time as we are expecting turbulence. Please be sure your seat belt is fastened."

He explained that as he looked around the aircraft, it became obvious that many of the passengers were becoming apprehensive. Later, the voice of the attendant said, "We are so sorry that we are unable to serve the meal at this time. There are turbulence still ahead."

The storm broke and ominous cracks of thunder could be heard even above the roar of the engines. Lightening lit up the darkening skies and within moments that large plane was like a cork being tossed about on a celestial ocean. One moment the airplane was lifted on the unforgiving currents of air and the next, it plummeted through the air.

The man confessed that he shared the discomfort and fear of those around him and he said, "As I looked around the plane, I could see that nearly all the passengers were upset and alarmed and some were praying. The future seemed ominous and many were wondering if they would make it safely through the storm.

Then, he suddenly noticed a little girl sitting across the isle and it was clear the storm meant nothing to her. She had tucked her feet beneath her as she sat on the seat; she was reading a book and every thing within her small world was calm and orderly. Sometimes she closed her eyes, then she would read again or straighten her legs, but worry and fear were not in her world: not when the plane was being buffeted by the terrible storm, when it lurched this way and that, or as it rose and fell with alarming severity. When all the adults were frightened beyond words, that marvelous innocent child was completely composed and unafraid.

It was not surprising therefore, that when the plane finally reached its destination and all the passengers were hurrying to disembark, the man lingered to speak to the young girl whom he had watched with amazement. Having commented about the storm and behavior of the plane, he asked why she had not been afraid.

The sweet child replied, "Sir, my Dad is the pilot, and he is taking me home."

There are many kinds of storms that buffet us: physical, mental, financial and domestic. There are storms that can easily and quickly darken our skies and throw our lives into an apparent uncontrollable frenzy. We have all known such times, and let us be honest and confess, it is much easier to be at rest when our feet are on the ground than when we are being tossed about in the darkness.

During the trials and difficulties of life, let us always remember to have faith in our Heavenly Father, who is the Pilot, and in the Lord, who is at the controls, for they are taking us safely home. LindaSumnerUrza for: onefineday11.blogspot.com

THE CHRISTMAS MIRACLE

2013-12-15T15:57:00.000-07:00

For many of us, one Christmas stands out from all the others, the one when the meaning of the day shone clearest.

Although I did not guess it, my own truest Christmas began on a rainy spring day in the bleakest year of my life. Recently divorced, I was in my 20's, had no job, and was on my way downtown to go the rounds of the employment offices. I had no umbrella, for my old one had fallen apart, and I could not afford another one. I sat down in the streetcar, and there against the seat was a beautiful silk umbrella with a silver handle inlaid with gold and flecks of bright enamel. I had never seen anything so lovely.

I examined the handle and saw a name engraved among the golden scrolls. The usual procedure would have been to turn in the umbrella to the conductor, but on impulse I decided to take it with me and find the owner myself. I got off the streetcar in a downpour and thankfully opened the umbrella to protect myself. Then I searched a telephone book for the name on the umbrella and found it. I called, and a lady answered.

Yes, she said in surprise, that was her umbrella which her parents, now dead, had given her for a birthday present. But, she added, it had been stolen from her locker at school (she was a teacher) more than a year before. She was so excited that I forgot I was looking for a job and went directly to her small house. She took the umbrella, and her eyes filled with tears.

The teacher wanted to give me a reward, but -- though $20 was all I had in the world - - her happiness at retrieving this special possession was such that to have accepted money would have spoiled something. We talked for a while, and I must have given her my address. I don't remember.

The next six months were wretched. I was able to obtain only temporary employment here and there, for a small salary, though this was what they now call the Roaring Twenties. But I put aside 25 or 50 cents when I could afford it for my little girls Christmas presents. (It took me six months to save $8.) My last job ended the day before Christmas, my $30 rent was soon due, and I had $15 to my name -- which Peggy and I would need for food. She was home from her convent boarding school and was excitedly looking forward to her gifts the next day, which I had already purchased. I had bought her a small tree, and we were going to decorate it that night.

The stormy air was full of the sound of Christmas merriment as I walked from the streetcar to my small apartment. Bells rang and children shouted in the bitter dusk of the evening, and windows were lighted and everyone was running and laughing. But there would be no Christmas for me, I knew, no gifts, no remembrance whatsoever. As I struggled through the snowdrifts, I just about reached the lowest point in my life. Unless a miracle happened I would be homeless in January, foodless, jobless. I had prayed steadily for weeks, and there had been no answer but this coldness and darkness, this harsh air, this abandonment. God and men had completely forgotten me. I felt old as death, and as lonely. What was to become of us?

I looked in my mailbox. There were only bills in it, a sheaf of them, and two white envelopes which I was sure contained more bills. I went up three dusty flights of stairs, and I cried, shivering in my thin coat. But I made myself smile so I could greet my little daughter with a pretense of happiness. She opened the door for me and threw herself in my arms, screaming joyously and demanding that we decorate the tree immediately.

Peggy was not yet six years old, and had been alone all day while I worked. She had set our kitchen table for our evening meal, proudly, and put pans out and the three cans of food which would be our dinner. For some reason, when I looked at those pans and cans, I felt broken-hearted. We would have only hamburgers for our Christmas dinner tomorrow, and gelatin. I stood in the cold little kitchen, and misery overwhelmed me. For the first time in my life, I doubted the existence of God and His mercy, and the coldness in my heart was colder than ice.

The doorbell rang, and Peggy ran fleetly to answer it, calling that it must be Santa Claus. Then I heard a man talking heartily to her and went to the door. He was a delivery man, and his arms were full of big parcels, and he was laughing at my child's frenzied joy and her dancing. This is a mistake, I said, but he read the name on the parcels, and they were for me. When he had gone I could only stare at the boxes. Peggy and I sat on the floor and opened them. A huge doll, three times the size of the one I had bought for her. Gloves. Candy. A beautiful leather purse. Incredible! I looked for the name of the sender. It was the teacher, the address simply California, where she had moved.

Our dinner that night was the most delicious I had ever eaten. I could only pray to myself, Thank You, Father. I forgot I had no money for the rent and only $15 in my purse and no job. My child and I ate and laughed together in happiness. Then we decorated the little tree and marveled at it. I put Peggy to bed and set up her gifts around the tree, and a sweet peace flooded me like a benediction. I had some hope again. I could even examine the sheaf of bills without cringing. Then I opened the two white envelopes. One contained a check for $30 from a company I had worked for briefly in the summer. It was, said a note, my Christmas bonus. My rent!

The other envelope was an offer of a permanent position with the government -- to begin in two days after Christmas. I sat with the letter in my hand and the check on the table before me, and I think that was the most joyful moment of my life up to that time.

The church bells began to ring. I hurriedly looked at my child, who was sleeping blissfully, and ran down to the street. Everywhere people were walking to church to celebrate the birth of the Saviour. People smiled at me and I smiled back. The storm had stopped, the sky was pure and glittering with stars.

The Lord is born! Sang the bells to the crystal night and the laughing darkness. Someone began to sing, Come, all ye faithful! I joined in and sang with the strangers all about me.

I am not alone at all, I thought. I was never alone at all.

And that, of course, is the message of Christmas. We are never alone. Not when the night is darkest, the wind coldest, the world seemingly most indifferent. For this is still the time God chooses.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

I read this story ever year on Christmas Eve when my children were younger. It's one of my most cherished. I guess it because there is something for everyone in this story of miracles. Merry Christmas and may God bless you and your loved ones.

(Taylor Caldwell (September 7, 1900 - August 30, 1985) wrote this story. She was a prolific and best-selling American author.)

THE LOVING HAND OF HUMANITY

2013-12-08T16:58:00.002-07:00

(If you haven't read the blog just below this one titled, 'Have you seen my son?' you will want to read it first in order to fully understand this story.) Scroll down, it's posted below.

It was December 6, 2013. I left my home in the evening to buy a few holiday decorations. I spent several hours looking for the things that I needed. When checking out, I was surprised at the expense of such few items. 'Oh well, after all it's Christmas!' I told myself.

The next morning I awoke to a storm that had covered our landscape with a white blanket of powdery snow. Since I live in the southern most tip of Utah, next to the Arizona boarder, this was a shocker - especially to my 20 foot palm trees! Around 10 o'clock there was a knock at the front door and when I opened it, there stood my son, Jared. He had a distressful look on his face, as he pointed to a man sitting in the passengers seat of his car. He explained that the man was homeless and he'd found him by the side of the road; he was jogging to keep warm. The young man didn't have a coat, hat, or gloves and his clothing was drenched from the falling snow. Jared, who had once been homeless himself, knew what that was like at its worst and I could feel the pain riveting through his countenance.

"I need to help him, Mom!" He declared. "He doesn't have anyone who cares about him like I have, he'll freeze in this weather!"

I motioned for the man to come into my home. Through our conversation, I learned that he was living underneath the bridge, just outside of town. He appeared to be around the age of 25 and presented himself in a kind and courteous way. Then I heard a silent message that whispered ever so gently to my heart, "He's somebody's son"and I struggled to clear the lump in my throat. At that moment I reflected back to the many prayers I had offered when Jared was homeless; I had pleaded for his safety and that he would to fall into the hands of good and kind people who would provide for his needs.

I found the young man some warm clothing and wool socks to replace his wet ones. He was very gracious, but reluctant to accept the items. I assured him that it was given with love and concern for his well-being. Then what happened next sufficiently humbled me. I watched the miracles of God bring the blessings of my prayers full circle and within the walls of my own home. Jared took off his down ski parka and placed it upon the man's shoulders. Then he opened his wallet and gave a large amount of cash, which I assure you was 40 times more than most people give to those living on the streets. Then he said, "I want to take you to get a hot meal - - someplace where you can get warm."

My heart was overcome with emotions and it was difficult to hold back the tears. Once I had prayed for someone to deliver my son from the cold and now he was reaching out to deliver another! I watched as Jared, without hesitation, stretch out the loving hand of humanity to lift this man to his feet.

After they left my home, I sat down and looked around the room. All the lavish decorations adorning my home had little to no value compared to the experience that I had just witnessed. I looked at the fireplace burning with glowing embers and burst into tears. I thought about all my blessings and like millions of others just like me, I had never been homeless! I had never wandered the streets looking for my next meal! I had never battled the bitterness of the unforgiving elements! I had never feared for my life in the solitary darkness of a cruel world! For a brief moment, God had allowed me to see a glimpse of the sacrifice that others endure to teach me of the plan of salvation. The plan to soften hearts, the plan to teach charity, the plan to evoke compassion, forgiveness, and eternal love. For a spit second, I realized that these experiences are given to all of us - that we may be inspired to change the world in which we live!

May we celebrate the true meaning of the Lord's birth by giving the gift of hope, love and charity to those who need it the most. May we look for every opportunity to lighten another's load through the pure love of Christ. John 13: 34-35 "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love one to another." Written by Linda Sumner Urza for: onefineday11.blogspot.com

(A special thanks to Jared for striving to make the world a better place in which to live.)

"Have You Seen My Son?"

We are a remarkable and resilient people. When the storms in life come to blow away our dreams, we build new ones. We are inherently good and kind, always looking for an opportunity to lend a hand in the service of our fellow man. We love our children and as we tuck them safely in their beds at night, we pray that no harm will come to them.

We plant our gardens, water our flowers and wave affectionally to our friends and neighbors. We defend our country and the people who live in this great land; even at the sacrifice of our own lives. We are a people of abundance, living in a world that overflows with resources. For those fortunate enough to be living the American dream, the world keeps spinning around and around, but this is not the perspective of everyone. There are many homeless wanderers who suffer beyond compare as childhood dreams are trapped within the nightmares of reality.

They are those who walk the city streets with no destination in mind, for there is no place for them to go. There is nothing to shield them from the elements and constant hunger is their greatest enemy. They may go several days without food and the pain in their abdomen feels like shards of glass against the lining of their stomach.

Each day becomes a burden while the judgements of mankind fall upon their heads and adding to their overwhelmingly heavy load. No one would choose this lot in life! While their days are filled with confusion and their nights with fear, they live in a world that is spinning wildly out of control. This was the black abyss that consumed my son, Jared, when he was 24 years old.

When he was 18, he was extremely bright, articulate, and full of promise. A few weeks after high school graduation, he was hired by an architectural firm and later moved to Arizona where he held a promising position with Charles Schwab. We were amazed with his abilities and there seemed to be no limit to his talents. Jared was living the American dream, until his life unraveled, one broken thread at a time. Within a matter of months his world had completely dissolved! Jared’s gifted mind was slowly being consumed and devoured by a severe form of mental illness called schizophrenia.

The madness began in the fall of 1999 when he noticed a high pitched ringing sound in his ears; this made it very difficult for him to sleep at night and impossible to concentrate during the day. Then he began to hear voices chattering in his head and he began to perceive things that were not tangible. At first these experiences were random and then they came more frequently, until it was impossible for him to formulate complete thoughts. The illness increased his anxiety with such intensity that he tried desperately to hide the symptoms from our family. He began to withdraw from any form of personal interaction with friends and family.

As Jared isolated himself from the world around him and he became extremely paranoid, with an obsessive, compulsive behavior. It was not long until his condition worsened and it became impossible for him to preform at work. One day, he walked away from his life, into the city streets and refused to look back!

He disappeared from our family’s radar and as the months passed by, there were times when we didn’t know if he was dead or alive. People who live on the streets seem to have an uncanny ability to disappear into thin air and Jared was no exception. I would stay awake nights and cry myself to sleep, wondering where my son could be and what living hell he must have to endure.

Do you have any idea how many prayers a mother can cry out over a period of eleven years? I can tell you exactly how many! I prayed that he would fall into the hands of good people who would see beyond his outer appearance and into his the center of his heart. I prayed that these people would have mercy upon him. I prayed for him to come in contact with those who could feel the burdens resting upon his shoulders and reach out to ease his pain. I prayed that if he were hungry, a kind stranger would offer him food and clean water to drink. I prayed when it was cold that those of abundance would share their warm clothing with him and that he would have a soft place to rest his head. But, the most important prayer that left my lips was that Jared would come home safely to our family, we all loved him and he deserved to be loved!

When we found Jared in November of 2008, he was hardly recognizable and with little resemblance of the beautiful man that is our brother and son. His life on the streets had afflicted his health and taken a toll on his life. He appeared to be a man between the ages of 55 to 60 years old! His handsome 6'3" frame weighed slightly over 120 pounds and by this time his level of communication was nearly incoherent. Jared had been beaten and robbed several times. He was living day to day on food from the food bank and wandering from place to place. The light in his eyes had gone completely dim and he resembled that of a frightened little child!

I appealed to the judge for a court order to sentence Jared to the hospital for evaluation, but getting the courts to take action against someone’s will is very difficult. Jared would not voluntarily admit himself into a clinic. Finally, the judge signed the order and he was placed in the hospital for mental evaluation and treatment. Today, he has regained his mental health and through proper medication he is living a healthy and constructive life.

Statistics state that over 54 million people suffer from mental health issues in the United States alone and over 2.5 million of those cases are diagnosed with schizophrenia. Most commonly, this disease affects young productive individuals in their early twenties and without signs of warning it becomes the silent destroyer.

Many people who suffer from this debilitating illness are living on the streets. Due to the nature of this disease, they fail to recognize that they are seriously disabled. There are thousands of parents who spend their lives searching the streets and asking the frightening question, “Have you seen my child?”

The next time you see someone less fortunate than you along the roadside, will you remember Jared’s story? There are those who walk among us and each day is an uphill battle... they may be pushing all their earthly belongings in a shopping cart or reaching out for a little spare change. Perhaps they are holding a sign requesting something specific. Please remember, giving them a little bit of something is far better for them than having a lot of nothing! Will you be so kind as to rise above the judgements of the world and stretch out your hand to comfort this soul, for they are someone’s child! by, Linda Sumner Urza, One Fine Day

I once cried because I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet. -Anonymous