This morning I was trying to pray. Trying is the important word, here. It felt like my prayers were all over the map. I kept getting distracted and getting "off course". Back to school on Monday has got me a little out of sorts. In many ways, I didn't know if I would be back at CRHS this year. I don't understand some of the things that are happening there; however, if God wants me at CRHS, I will commit to making the best of the experience. He has lessons He wants me to learn. When it is His time, He will deliver me from the situation.
As I finished praying this morning and started moving around a bit. As God does so frequently, I found some answers in my e-mail. Excerpts from the e-mail devotionals follow.
** To the frantic question, What do we do now? there is a very simple reply: Pray and sing.
** The person who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.
-Anonymous
**"The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much" (James 5:16).
Earnestness in prayer does not involve physical gestures but a condition of the heart and will with regard to the purposes of God.
Perhaps here we may learn to examine our own prayers. Since Elijah's prayer was motivated by his desire to see God honored, God answered His servant.
In writing concerning prayer James said, "Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts" (4:3). Right motives are essential if our prayers are to be answered.
"For our God is a consuming fire" (Heb. 12:29).
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
The answer is as easy as that...
Take Strength
These strong, simple words can be spiritual adrenaline for us when we need them. They were written by a man who knew what he was talking about, as he himself was in prison. He was writing to a young minister who was also suffering and evidently tempted by doubt, fear, even uncertainty of his call. The older man admonishes him very lovingly to take his share of suffering, take his share of hardship like a good soldier, and to take strength from the grace of God (2 Tm 2:1 NEB).
Where shall I ever find the strength I need to get through this experience, this ordeal, this day, this week? The answer is Take it! Take it from the grace which is ours already, in Christ Jesus.
"Here it is," He is saying, "Will you have some?"
"Yes, thank You, Lord. I'll take it."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The answer is that easy..."take it".
I am concerned and a little stressed about the coming school year. There are so many things going on and it feels, already, that I am under the gun. However, I've come to realize that it is more important that I am "under the blood." God is in control and He knows all the stuff I'm dealing with. He knows the frustrations included in the situations. He knows, before it even happens, the difficulties I will face.
No matter what happens in the coming year...and for the rest of my life...all I must do is reach out and take the grace and strength God is offering. As the old Petra song says "...you see, Jesus and me, we are a majority and no matter how big the mountain it will have to go."
The mountain will go but I will remain...anchored to God.
These strong, simple words can be spiritual adrenaline for us when we need them. They were written by a man who knew what he was talking about, as he himself was in prison. He was writing to a young minister who was also suffering and evidently tempted by doubt, fear, even uncertainty of his call. The older man admonishes him very lovingly to take his share of suffering, take his share of hardship like a good soldier, and to take strength from the grace of God (2 Tm 2:1 NEB).
Where shall I ever find the strength I need to get through this experience, this ordeal, this day, this week? The answer is Take it! Take it from the grace which is ours already, in Christ Jesus.
"Here it is," He is saying, "Will you have some?"
"Yes, thank You, Lord. I'll take it."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The answer is that easy..."take it".
I am concerned and a little stressed about the coming school year. There are so many things going on and it feels, already, that I am under the gun. However, I've come to realize that it is more important that I am "under the blood." God is in control and He knows all the stuff I'm dealing with. He knows the frustrations included in the situations. He knows, before it even happens, the difficulties I will face.
No matter what happens in the coming year...and for the rest of my life...all I must do is reach out and take the grace and strength God is offering. As the old Petra song says "...you see, Jesus and me, we are a majority and no matter how big the mountain it will have to go."
The mountain will go but I will remain...anchored to God.
Monday, August 06, 2007
Pop quizzes in life
Lately I've been posting quite a few Elizabeth Elliot devotions. It's not that I can't think these things for myself, it's more that she has said exactly what I was thinking, or that her words pointed out something that really struck me at the moment. I could paraphrase her words, and maybe sometimes I will; however, right now it seems that I could hardly say it any other way.
God is blessing me in so many ways. He is answering prayers. He is also teaching me. I don't know why I will be at CRHS this coming school year...I don't know how much longer God will have me there. He hasn't decided to let me in on those facts, instead He is asking me to trust Him...and so I shall. He is using this time to refine me and make me into the person He wants me to be. These times of growth and learning are never easy; however, it is never a situation that comes to stay ("And it came to pass..." 'It' never comes to stay, 'it' always comes to pass).
This is a time of 'quizzing' and with God's help it is a life quiz I will learn from, grow from and pass.
A Faith Untried
"A faith untried is no faith at all," someone has said. Today I declared my faith before a hundred women and came home to a startling piece of bad news. Hopes were dashed, plans ruined, over a seemingly trivial thing. We did not know what to do. "Trust me" is always the word at such a time. "But Lord, we did trust You. You answered us and everything was working so beautifully. Now this. What shall we do?" "Keep on trusting me. That is my assignment for you tonight. Commit your way to Me; trust in Me; stand still and see."
Why, of course, Lord! I see what You mean. How could I be sure I'm trusting You unless You keep giving me "pop quizzes"? These are the exams in the school of faith.
"More precious than perishable gold is faith which has stood the test. These trials come so that your faith may prove itself worthy" (1 Pt 1:7 NEB).
God is blessing me in so many ways. He is answering prayers. He is also teaching me. I don't know why I will be at CRHS this coming school year...I don't know how much longer God will have me there. He hasn't decided to let me in on those facts, instead He is asking me to trust Him...and so I shall. He is using this time to refine me and make me into the person He wants me to be. These times of growth and learning are never easy; however, it is never a situation that comes to stay ("And it came to pass..." 'It' never comes to stay, 'it' always comes to pass).
This is a time of 'quizzing' and with God's help it is a life quiz I will learn from, grow from and pass.
A Faith Untried
"A faith untried is no faith at all," someone has said. Today I declared my faith before a hundred women and came home to a startling piece of bad news. Hopes were dashed, plans ruined, over a seemingly trivial thing. We did not know what to do. "Trust me" is always the word at such a time. "But Lord, we did trust You. You answered us and everything was working so beautifully. Now this. What shall we do?" "Keep on trusting me. That is my assignment for you tonight. Commit your way to Me; trust in Me; stand still and see."
Why, of course, Lord! I see what You mean. How could I be sure I'm trusting You unless You keep giving me "pop quizzes"? These are the exams in the school of faith.
"More precious than perishable gold is faith which has stood the test. These trials come so that your faith may prove itself worthy" (1 Pt 1:7 NEB).
Sunday, August 05, 2007
Comfort in times of "need"...
Difficulties are Proof Contexts
Repeatedly I am asked variations of this question: Did the Lord comfort you or were you sometimes lonely or sad? It is not an either-or thing. If I had not been lonely and sad at times, how could I have needed, received, or appreciated comfort? It is the sick who need the physician, the thirsty who need water. This is why Paul not only did not deplore his weaknesses, he "gloried" in them, for they provided the very occasions for his appropriating divine help and strength.
It was in prison that Joseph knew the presence of the Lord.
It was in the lion's den that Daniel's faith was proved.
It was in the furnace that Daniel's three friends found themselves accompanied by a fourth.
We have plenty of "proof texts"--but in order to experience their truth we have to be placed in "proof contexts." The prison, the lion's den, the furnace are where we are shown the realities, incontestably and forever.
Repeatedly I am asked variations of this question: Did the Lord comfort you or were you sometimes lonely or sad? It is not an either-or thing. If I had not been lonely and sad at times, how could I have needed, received, or appreciated comfort? It is the sick who need the physician, the thirsty who need water. This is why Paul not only did not deplore his weaknesses, he "gloried" in them, for they provided the very occasions for his appropriating divine help and strength.
It was in prison that Joseph knew the presence of the Lord.
It was in the lion's den that Daniel's faith was proved.
It was in the furnace that Daniel's three friends found themselves accompanied by a fourth.
We have plenty of "proof texts"--but in order to experience their truth we have to be placed in "proof contexts." The prison, the lion's den, the furnace are where we are shown the realities, incontestably and forever.
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Taken from a blog by John Piper...
The word “bridge” does not occur in the Bible. There may be two reasons. One is that God doesn’t build bridges, he divides seas. The other is that usually his people must pass through the deadly currents of suffering and death, not simply ride over them. “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you” (Isaiah 43:2). They may drown you. But I will be with you in life and death.
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life . . . will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Killed all day long. But not separated from Christ. We go through the river. Not over it. He went before us, crucified. He came out on the other side. He knows the way through. With him we will make it. That is the message we have for the precious sinners in the world. He died for your sins. He rose again. He saves all who trust him. We die, but because of him, we do not die.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I'm learning a lot about trusting God and relying on his grace. The lessons about resting in Him have also been a major theme as of late. There has been a lot, both good and bad going on; however, of this I am certain...God is in control. No matter what may occur, He will sustain.
In many ways, yesterday was a difficult day. I faced a giant in my life. There was peace in the situation, though. God carried me through. I don't know what the future may hold; however, it isn't in my hands and that is perfectly OK.
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life . . . will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Killed all day long. But not separated from Christ. We go through the river. Not over it. He went before us, crucified. He came out on the other side. He knows the way through. With him we will make it. That is the message we have for the precious sinners in the world. He died for your sins. He rose again. He saves all who trust him. We die, but because of him, we do not die.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I'm learning a lot about trusting God and relying on his grace. The lessons about resting in Him have also been a major theme as of late. There has been a lot, both good and bad going on; however, of this I am certain...God is in control. No matter what may occur, He will sustain.
In many ways, yesterday was a difficult day. I faced a giant in my life. There was peace in the situation, though. God carried me through. I don't know what the future may hold; however, it isn't in my hands and that is perfectly OK.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Learning to be silent
In the midst of chaos God is my refuge and calm. The last few days have found me "hiding" from the world a bit. Maybe I feel a little shell shocked, maybe I'm not ready to face reality, maybe I just needed to be invisible...whatever the reason, God has allowed me this time. Now, it seems, he is making me ready to move.
Sometimes it isn't easy to be silent. In the last weeks I have found that sometimes silence is necessary. Silence can give the mind and soul a rest. It gives the chance to hear things I might otherwise have missed. It allows God a chance to speak. It is really amazing how God is sending me the messages and encouragement I need most right now. Today he reminds me that silence is needed and is important.
The Need for Silence
It is always easier to add to the noise of the world than to be silent. Silence is a very precious thing--"There was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour" (Rv 8:1 AV), when the seventh seal was opened in the Book of the Revelation. Thunder and horses and martyrs and earthquakes had preceded the opening of this seal. Hail, fire, blood, and fearful judgment followed it--but in between, angels stood in the presence of God and there was utter silence.
Have we learned to stand in God's presence, mouths shut, hearts open? "Lord, what do you want me to do?" We must be quiet in order to know Him and to hear Him and to hear Him answer us.
"If any of you lack wisdom let him ask his friends." No. That is not the Word of the Lord. "If any of you lack wisdom let him ask of God" (Jas 1:5 AV) is his Word to us. There is a place for asking wisdom of godly friends, but let us always go first to God.
"Be still"--that is, shut up--"and know that He is God" (Ps 46:10 AV).
Sometimes it isn't easy to be silent. In the last weeks I have found that sometimes silence is necessary. Silence can give the mind and soul a rest. It gives the chance to hear things I might otherwise have missed. It allows God a chance to speak. It is really amazing how God is sending me the messages and encouragement I need most right now. Today he reminds me that silence is needed and is important.
The Need for Silence
It is always easier to add to the noise of the world than to be silent. Silence is a very precious thing--"There was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour" (Rv 8:1 AV), when the seventh seal was opened in the Book of the Revelation. Thunder and horses and martyrs and earthquakes had preceded the opening of this seal. Hail, fire, blood, and fearful judgment followed it--but in between, angels stood in the presence of God and there was utter silence.
Have we learned to stand in God's presence, mouths shut, hearts open? "Lord, what do you want me to do?" We must be quiet in order to know Him and to hear Him and to hear Him answer us.
"If any of you lack wisdom let him ask his friends." No. That is not the Word of the Lord. "If any of you lack wisdom let him ask of God" (Jas 1:5 AV) is his Word to us. There is a place for asking wisdom of godly friends, but let us always go first to God.
"Be still"--that is, shut up--"and know that He is God" (Ps 46:10 AV).
Monday, July 30, 2007
Answers begin to come...
I have not always depended on God the way I should. It is easy to say, "Here, Lord, take my problem." I, however, struggle with leaving the issue in His more than capable hands. Getting impatient that things aren't happening on my timeline, I sometimes try to "help" and things go awry. Sometimes I struggle with giving God the problem in the first place, thinking whatever it is might be too trivial for the God of the universe.
This summer God has been showing me alot about both of those things. He wants to take care of me and my issues. I NEED to seek Him and His grace. Receiving His grace is also part of the equation.
Now a bump has appeared in the road. Instinct screams to fight or to give up. Instead, it seems I am to wait. So...wait I shall. God is in control. I repeat that over and over. Instead of running head-first into the fray, I wait for God and His instructions. He is the director. I am concerned about the situation yet at peace.
He will let me know His plan when it is time and He will make the path clear. When and where he instructs, I will follow.
*************************************************************************************
It is one thing to serve on boards and committees that handle the affairs of others; it is quite another to make decisions that affect us personally.
It is not a sacrifice to the Lord if we give of that which costs us nothing.
"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise" (Ps. 51:17).
*************************************************************************************
The Necessity to Cover
There are things which it is our duty to cover in silence. We are told nowadays that everything ought to be expressed if we are truly "honest" and "open."
Proverbs 11:13 says, "He who goes abroad as a talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing hidden."
Jesus sometimes refused to reveal the truth about Himself, even when it would have seemed to us "an opportunity to witness." He did not always answer questions. He did not always say who He was. He told some of those He healed to tell no one about it.
"For every activity under heaven its time...a time for silence and a time for speech" (Eccl 3:1,7 NEB). "A man of understanding remains silent" (Prv 11:12 RSV).
Lord, deliver me from the urge to open my mouth when I should shut it. Give me the wisdom to keep silence where silence is wise. Remind me that not everything needs to be said, and that there are very few things that need to be said by me.
This summer God has been showing me alot about both of those things. He wants to take care of me and my issues. I NEED to seek Him and His grace. Receiving His grace is also part of the equation.
Now a bump has appeared in the road. Instinct screams to fight or to give up. Instead, it seems I am to wait. So...wait I shall. God is in control. I repeat that over and over. Instead of running head-first into the fray, I wait for God and His instructions. He is the director. I am concerned about the situation yet at peace.
He will let me know His plan when it is time and He will make the path clear. When and where he instructs, I will follow.
*************************************************************************************
It is one thing to serve on boards and committees that handle the affairs of others; it is quite another to make decisions that affect us personally.
It is not a sacrifice to the Lord if we give of that which costs us nothing.
"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise" (Ps. 51:17).
*************************************************************************************
The Necessity to Cover
There are things which it is our duty to cover in silence. We are told nowadays that everything ought to be expressed if we are truly "honest" and "open."
Proverbs 11:13 says, "He who goes abroad as a talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing hidden."
Jesus sometimes refused to reveal the truth about Himself, even when it would have seemed to us "an opportunity to witness." He did not always answer questions. He did not always say who He was. He told some of those He healed to tell no one about it.
"For every activity under heaven its time...a time for silence and a time for speech" (Eccl 3:1,7 NEB). "A man of understanding remains silent" (Prv 11:12 RSV).
Lord, deliver me from the urge to open my mouth when I should shut it. Give me the wisdom to keep silence where silence is wise. Remind me that not everything needs to be said, and that there are very few things that need to be said by me.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
What I need to do right now...(watch, wait and pray)
Watching Quietly, Praying Silently
The man whom Abraham sent to find a wife for his son Isaac had been long in Abraham's service. No doubt he had learned much of trust and obedience through watching his master walk with God. He set out on his mission, confident that God would help him.
Beside the Well of Aram of Two Rivers he halted his camels and was praying silently when a beautiful young woman appeared with her water jar on her shoulder. She responded to his request as he had prayed she would, and he watched quietly to see whether the Lord had made his journey successful (Gn 24:21).
Very possibly we often miss what God wants to show us because we don't take time to pray silently and watch quietly. It was by doing those two things, along with the obvious practical things (let us not leave those undone) that the servant was able to say, "I have been guided by the Lord" (Gn 24:27 NEB).
The man whom Abraham sent to find a wife for his son Isaac had been long in Abraham's service. No doubt he had learned much of trust and obedience through watching his master walk with God. He set out on his mission, confident that God would help him.
Beside the Well of Aram of Two Rivers he halted his camels and was praying silently when a beautiful young woman appeared with her water jar on her shoulder. She responded to his request as he had prayed she would, and he watched quietly to see whether the Lord had made his journey successful (Gn 24:21).
Very possibly we often miss what God wants to show us because we don't take time to pray silently and watch quietly. It was by doing those two things, along with the obvious practical things (let us not leave those undone) that the servant was able to say, "I have been guided by the Lord" (Gn 24:27 NEB).
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Thoughts and lessons for today...
Our Enemy is always looking for opportunities to control our lives. Where he cannot stir us up to revolt against God, he will seek to make us careless so that before we realize what is happening we are dominated by our fallen natures.
"For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (Mark 8:36).
"For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (Mark 8:36).
Friday, July 27, 2007
Advice to take to heart
So, stuff is going on...again. I am trying to seek God's will and gudiance in all things. The latest trial is very frustrating. I feel totally defeated. God has used amazing people, though, to encourage me. I am so thankful for friends. I want to take the situation and place it in God's hands...let Him work it all out. That is a hard thing for me. Letting God work and trusting Him isn't always easy. I don't know why but I want to give it to Him and then try to "help". OF course, when that happens things turn disasterous. Things are happening and I want God's peace. There are choices that will have to be made and I want to heard God's voice...his instruction in what to do next. This is a learning process for me. I feel like I'm standing on the edge and can't see what is "out there" and that's scary. I know God wants me to put my life in his hands and let him support and guide...it is going to be an interesting and lesson filled ride.
In the mean time...I found this quote this morning. I never cease to be amazed at how God sends messages when his children need them (and the instruments his sometimes chooses to use!)...
Meditate. Live purely. Be quiet. Do your work with mastery. Like the moon, come out from behind the clouds! Shine.
-Buddha
In the mean time...I found this quote this morning. I never cease to be amazed at how God sends messages when his children need them (and the instruments his sometimes chooses to use!)...
Meditate. Live purely. Be quiet. Do your work with mastery. Like the moon, come out from behind the clouds! Shine.
-Buddha
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
What I'm convicted about today...
A Devious Repentance
Recently I committed a sin of what seemed to me unpardonable thoughtlessness. For days I wanted to kick myself around the block. What is the matter with me? I thought. How could I have acted so? "Fret not thyself because of evildoers" came to mind. In this case the evildoer was myself, and I was fretting. My fretting, I discovered, was a subtle kind of pride. "I'm really not that sort of person," I was saying. I did not want to be thought of as that sort of person. I was very sorry for what I had done, not primarily because I had failed someone I loved, but because my reputation would be smudged. When my reputation becomes my chief concern, my repentance has a hollow ring. No wonder Satan is called the deceiver. He has a thousand tricks, and we fall for them.
Lord, I confess my sin of thoughtlessness and my sin of pride. I pray for a more loving and a purer heart, for Jesus' sake.
Recently I committed a sin of what seemed to me unpardonable thoughtlessness. For days I wanted to kick myself around the block. What is the matter with me? I thought. How could I have acted so? "Fret not thyself because of evildoers" came to mind. In this case the evildoer was myself, and I was fretting. My fretting, I discovered, was a subtle kind of pride. "I'm really not that sort of person," I was saying. I did not want to be thought of as that sort of person. I was very sorry for what I had done, not primarily because I had failed someone I loved, but because my reputation would be smudged. When my reputation becomes my chief concern, my repentance has a hollow ring. No wonder Satan is called the deceiver. He has a thousand tricks, and we fall for them.
Lord, I confess my sin of thoughtlessness and my sin of pride. I pray for a more loving and a purer heart, for Jesus' sake.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Continued lessons from FSU
God has been teaching me so much lately. These last 5 weeks have been full of experiences and lessons...and many of these weren't in the classroom! It is as if God has been breaking through some of the walls I had so carefully constructed around various parts of myself and is healing old hurts. This hasn't been an easy process, by far. I've felt out of sorts and confused; however, God is in control...and that is all I need to know.
The following is what he showed me today:
An Antidote for Pride
The basis of all sin of whatever kind is pride. This was what inspired the disobedience of Adam and Eve, and it is always with us. One very common form it takes is the pride of privilege. When a man is given a special position, he forgets that it was given. He becomes proud, as though "his own arm" had gotten him the victory.
God knows well the heart and made provision for this sin of pride when He instructed the Israelites about appointing a king. He was to make a copy of the law. This would be the antidote, necessary for him and likewise for all of us (for "law" read "Word"). "He shall keep it by him and read from it all his life, so that he may learn to fear the Lord his God and keep all the words of this law and observe these statutes.
In this way he shall not become prouder than his fellow countrymen nor shall he turn from these commandments to right or left" (Dt 17:19, 20 NEB). The attempt itself to keep the commandments, one by one and day after day, will be sufficient to humble us, for the "straightedge of the law" (Rom 3:20 JBP) will only show us, as Paul found, how crooked we are. We will find, in fact, that we cannot keep it. "The whole matter is on a different plane--believing instead of achieving" (Rom 3:27 JBP). Pride won't find much foothold on that plane.
"The real test of being in the presence of God is that you either forget about yourself altogether or see yourself as a small, dirty object. It is better to forget about yourself altogether" (C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity).
The following is what he showed me today:
An Antidote for Pride
The basis of all sin of whatever kind is pride. This was what inspired the disobedience of Adam and Eve, and it is always with us. One very common form it takes is the pride of privilege. When a man is given a special position, he forgets that it was given. He becomes proud, as though "his own arm" had gotten him the victory.
God knows well the heart and made provision for this sin of pride when He instructed the Israelites about appointing a king. He was to make a copy of the law. This would be the antidote, necessary for him and likewise for all of us (for "law" read "Word"). "He shall keep it by him and read from it all his life, so that he may learn to fear the Lord his God and keep all the words of this law and observe these statutes.
In this way he shall not become prouder than his fellow countrymen nor shall he turn from these commandments to right or left" (Dt 17:19, 20 NEB). The attempt itself to keep the commandments, one by one and day after day, will be sufficient to humble us, for the "straightedge of the law" (Rom 3:20 JBP) will only show us, as Paul found, how crooked we are. We will find, in fact, that we cannot keep it. "The whole matter is on a different plane--believing instead of achieving" (Rom 3:27 JBP). Pride won't find much foothold on that plane.
"The real test of being in the presence of God is that you either forget about yourself altogether or see yourself as a small, dirty object. It is better to forget about yourself altogether" (C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity).
Saturday, July 21, 2007
When God Says No
I've been learning about sometimes God saying 'no'. This is a hard lesson for me. Like so many people, I want things to go my way. Yeilding to God's desires for me is sometimes difficult; however, it is a refuge to know that He is in control. While I cannot see the reasons for staying in a situation (like CRHS) I can rest in the fact that He is working all things together for His good...
2 Samuel 7:1-13
Nathan commended David for his desire to build a temple and then went to his own house. That night God spoke to the prophet, and as an obedient servant, Nathan brought the word to David. The message was no.
God was not going to allow David to build a house of worship for Him. The Lord, however, was pleased with the intentions and the attitude of David's heart in this matter.
Years later, after David's death, Solomon built a magnificent temple and in his dedication message said, "It was in the heart of David my father to build an house for the name of the LORD God of Israel. And the Lord said unto David my father, Whereas it was in thine heart to build an house unto my name, thou didst well that it was in thine heart" (I Kings 8:17,18).
Though God said no to David's building a temple, He was so pleased with David's attitude that He made a covenant with him in which He promised to establish the house of David forever.
Can you take a no from God? He knows what is best for all of us. Remember, His promise to David was "I will be with thee for ever" (see 2 Sam. 7:16). This promise is ours also, for He has said He will never leave us nor forsake us (see Heb. 13:5).
"As for God, his way is perfect" (2 Sam. 22:31).
2 Samuel 7:1-13
Nathan commended David for his desire to build a temple and then went to his own house. That night God spoke to the prophet, and as an obedient servant, Nathan brought the word to David. The message was no.
God was not going to allow David to build a house of worship for Him. The Lord, however, was pleased with the intentions and the attitude of David's heart in this matter.
Years later, after David's death, Solomon built a magnificent temple and in his dedication message said, "It was in the heart of David my father to build an house for the name of the LORD God of Israel. And the Lord said unto David my father, Whereas it was in thine heart to build an house unto my name, thou didst well that it was in thine heart" (I Kings 8:17,18).
Though God said no to David's building a temple, He was so pleased with David's attitude that He made a covenant with him in which He promised to establish the house of David forever.
Can you take a no from God? He knows what is best for all of us. Remember, His promise to David was "I will be with thee for ever" (see 2 Sam. 7:16). This promise is ours also, for He has said He will never leave us nor forsake us (see Heb. 13:5).
"As for God, his way is perfect" (2 Sam. 22:31).
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
The seed that is me
To see things in the seed, that is genius.
-Lao-Tzu
Thank you, Lord, for seeing something in the seed that is me. Thank you, also, for the nurturing, tending, and (even though it can be painful) the pruning you do to help me to grow in your grace and wisdom. Let me have deep roots planted firmly in you and branches that reach tall and strong toward you.
-Lao-Tzu
Thank you, Lord, for seeing something in the seed that is me. Thank you, also, for the nurturing, tending, and (even though it can be painful) the pruning you do to help me to grow in your grace and wisdom. Let me have deep roots planted firmly in you and branches that reach tall and strong toward you.
Monday, July 16, 2007
What God showed me today...
My Own Fault
Someone who is suffering as a result of his own foolishness or failure may read these words. These griefs are hard indeed to bear, for we feel we might easily have avoided them. We have no one to blame but ourselves, and there isn't much consolation there. Sometimes we imagine that we must bear this kind of trouble alone, but that is a mistake. The Lamb of God, slain for us, has borne all of our griefs and carried all of our sorrows, no matter what their origin. All grief and sorrow is the result of sin somewhere along the line, but Christ received them willingly. It is nothing but pride that keeps me from asking Him to help me to bear the troubles which are my own fault.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, take away mine.
I take Him at His word indeed,
Christ died for sinners--this I read--
And in my heart I find a need
Of Him to be my Savior.
(Dora Greenwell)
Someone who is suffering as a result of his own foolishness or failure may read these words. These griefs are hard indeed to bear, for we feel we might easily have avoided them. We have no one to blame but ourselves, and there isn't much consolation there. Sometimes we imagine that we must bear this kind of trouble alone, but that is a mistake. The Lamb of God, slain for us, has borne all of our griefs and carried all of our sorrows, no matter what their origin. All grief and sorrow is the result of sin somewhere along the line, but Christ received them willingly. It is nothing but pride that keeps me from asking Him to help me to bear the troubles which are my own fault.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, take away mine.
I take Him at His word indeed,
Christ died for sinners--this I read--
And in my heart I find a need
Of Him to be my Savior.
(Dora Greenwell)
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Loving the world...
To love the world in the wrong way is to love it without knowing the Father's love. It is when a man knows Him and receives everything from his hand that the world is redeemed for him, no longer a snare and in opposition to the love of God. I must love the world only through and because of the Father, not instead of. My ultimate concern must be God Himself. He is eternal. His gifts are not always so.
Lord, may no gift of yours ever take your place in my heart. Help me to hold them lightly in an open palm, that the supreme object of my desire may always be You and You alone. Purify my heart--I want to love You purely.
Lord, may no gift of yours ever take your place in my heart. Help me to hold them lightly in an open palm, that the supreme object of my desire may always be You and You alone. Purify my heart--I want to love You purely.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
lesson for today...
"The love of Christ leaves us no choice....His purpose in dying for all was that men, while still in life, should cease to live for themselves" (2 Cor 5:14,15 NEB).
No other choice but love. Cease to live for yourself. Live for Christ. Don't bother singing, "Oh, how I love Jesus" as long as you are plotting retaliation. You don't really have that choice, not if you're a Christian.
No other choice but love. Cease to live for yourself. Live for Christ. Don't bother singing, "Oh, how I love Jesus" as long as you are plotting retaliation. You don't really have that choice, not if you're a Christian.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
another installment of : What God showed or taught me today...
Yesterday's victory is not sufficient for today. We must have a moment-by-moment walk with the Lord so that when each testing comes, we will be victorious for Christ.
You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness" (2 Pet. 3:17, NASB).
You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness" (2 Pet. 3:17, NASB).
Monday, July 09, 2007
Today is the first day...
Well...God has placed something on my heart and I'm listening.
I've been wanting to get back into shape. I'm tired of feeling pudgy and out of shape. While here at FSU I've been eating well and I'm taking my thyroid meds every day. I realized I was going to have to do more. While praying about what that might be, God kept putting joggers/runners in my path. Dad has been jogging for years. Jimmy has been jogging (and even runs marathons and has done triathlons!). Anji started running in January and her husband, John Ventry, started jogging recently. My roommate, Hannah, runs daily and is training for a marathon in January. My wonderful new friend, Eric, jogs. So...OK LORD! I get the picture...I will get on the bandwagon and start jogging. When I got home today I changed and went to the fitness center at the condo. I walked (at a pace of 4 mph) for 20 min. on a treadmill and then rode a stationary bike for 20 min. (at about 10 mph). I feel pretty good...so far. Tomorrow, I'll do more. I hope to build up to jogging fairly quickly and then build from there.
It's interesting, too, how many of these people are all training for a marathon at Disney in January. They don't know one another; however, they will all be running the same race. Is God pointing me in that direction as well???
So today...it the first day for a new me. Prayerfully, God gives me the strength to commit to this and make it a part of my life.
I've been wanting to get back into shape. I'm tired of feeling pudgy and out of shape. While here at FSU I've been eating well and I'm taking my thyroid meds every day. I realized I was going to have to do more. While praying about what that might be, God kept putting joggers/runners in my path. Dad has been jogging for years. Jimmy has been jogging (and even runs marathons and has done triathlons!). Anji started running in January and her husband, John Ventry, started jogging recently. My roommate, Hannah, runs daily and is training for a marathon in January. My wonderful new friend, Eric, jogs. So...OK LORD! I get the picture...I will get on the bandwagon and start jogging. When I got home today I changed and went to the fitness center at the condo. I walked (at a pace of 4 mph) for 20 min. on a treadmill and then rode a stationary bike for 20 min. (at about 10 mph). I feel pretty good...so far. Tomorrow, I'll do more. I hope to build up to jogging fairly quickly and then build from there.
It's interesting, too, how many of these people are all training for a marathon at Disney in January. They don't know one another; however, they will all be running the same race. Is God pointing me in that direction as well???
So today...it the first day for a new me. Prayerfully, God gives me the strength to commit to this and make it a part of my life.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Frustrated and Confused
I don't know what to do.
I went to the school today to run some copies and do some misc. work. I figured by doing the copies now it would give me some extra time later. It also would work well to use up copy numbers now, especially when the machines are free.
One of the administrators, one that I like, asked me to stop by her office. She told me my numbers are still down (what do I have to do to get numbers?????????). I'll be expected to teach English next year. I've been given an ultimatium: get English certified or drop down to part-time.
I was also basically told I'll be expected to 'play nice', go to the English Dpt meetings, track with the other English teachers, etc. I'm not an English teacher! I don't like teaching English.
I'm discouraged and angry. I don't understand this. What lesson am I supposed to be learning?
I don't like teaching English! I don't know what to do!!!!!!
I went to the school today to run some copies and do some misc. work. I figured by doing the copies now it would give me some extra time later. It also would work well to use up copy numbers now, especially when the machines are free.
One of the administrators, one that I like, asked me to stop by her office. She told me my numbers are still down (what do I have to do to get numbers?????????). I'll be expected to teach English next year. I've been given an ultimatium: get English certified or drop down to part-time.
I was also basically told I'll be expected to 'play nice', go to the English Dpt meetings, track with the other English teachers, etc. I'm not an English teacher! I don't like teaching English.
I'm discouraged and angry. I don't understand this. What lesson am I supposed to be learning?
I don't like teaching English! I don't know what to do!!!!!!
Monday, June 11, 2007
Dates to remember
Last night at 11 pm my Aunt Marilyn passed away. She had fought a good fight against cancer and the cancer, ultimately, won. Aunt Marilyn was my 'Auntie Mame'...she was full of life and full of love. She wasn't afraid of death but saw it as a transition out of this world and into the arms of the Lord. I'm sure Grandpa, Grandma Mabel and Grandma Anne were waiting for her. I'm glad to know she is out of pain. It hurts to know I didn't get to see her 1 more time. She is the first of my dad's siblings to pass away, I can't begin to imagine how they feel...how her family feels. RIP...to a beautiful woman...
Today is my mom's birthday. She's 64 today. I gave her her gifts last week. I pray she has a wonderful year and that God blesses her in new and amazing ways.
Today is my mom's birthday. She's 64 today. I gave her her gifts last week. I pray she has a wonderful year and that God blesses her in new and amazing ways.
Friday, June 01, 2007
the unknows
I'm sitting on the brink of so much right now. There is a choice that has to be made and I don't know what to do. In some ways the obvious seems to be the best way to go. (but what is obvious?)
It seems to be what I've been praying about. In many ways I want to jump out of the boat and walk on faith.
The problem? It isn't just me that has to be considered. If Tom isn't behind this 100%...if Tom doesn't think this is God's will then we don't take a step forward. Is his hesitation genuine or is it just fear?
What I do know is choices have to be made quickly...I pray God directs our steps quickly and with all certainty.
It seems to be what I've been praying about. In many ways I want to jump out of the boat and walk on faith.
The problem? It isn't just me that has to be considered. If Tom isn't behind this 100%...if Tom doesn't think this is God's will then we don't take a step forward. Is his hesitation genuine or is it just fear?
What I do know is choices have to be made quickly...I pray God directs our steps quickly and with all certainty.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Which theologian are you?
 | You scored as John Calvin. Much of what is now called Calvinism had more to do with his followers than Calvin himself, and so you may or may not be committed to TULIP, though God's sovereignty is all important.
Which theologian are you? created with QuizFarm.com |
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Anger, frustration and discouragement
It has been a difficult year at work. After last year's problems and the accusations I knew this year would be hard. I felt, though, that God was directing me to stay. Running from my problems wasn't the way to solve them. I have felt bombarded all year. It seems I am embroiled in serious spiritual battle. There are day's it seems I can do nothing right. I have questioned if this job is the right thing...if I should stay...if I should change careers. I have doubted my abilities.
Depression has flirted all around. Panic and anxiety have been a plague. I felt attacked from all sides. Discouragement has been a regular occurance.
I didn't give up, though. Pushing forward, I've trusted God at every turn. There had to be an end and things would get better. God was using this to teach me, to make me grow, to draw me closer to him.
I'll admit I haven't always been good through this process. Sometime I complained because of how uncomfortable the whole thing has been. There were times when giving up would have been the easiest thing to do. There were times I grumbled. However, I continued to realize God was in control.
Yesterday was my yearly evaluation. I don't know what I expected. My boss actually asked if I wanted to be doing my job! He said I seemed 'frail' and unhappy. He suggested I might want to consider another career. He brough my health up and that I seem to get ill "a lot". He suggested I should make more of an effort to reunite the arts department.
In the end I passed my evaluation; however, I felt totally shreaded. I don't know what to do. Being a drama teacher has been amazing...teaching English has been awful. I want to be faithful. I want to be a good teacher. I just don't know. I didn't feel that he always understood or listened to what I tried to say.
It is amazing, though, how God is still in control. This morning, I opened an e-mail devotional. Elizabeth Elliot has been such a source of encouragement and teaching this year. God has continually sent me just what I needed just when I needed to hear it.
Prayer is Conflict
Prayer is no easy pastime. As I grow old I find that I am more conscious than ever of my need to pray, but it seems at the same time to become more of a struggle. It is harder to concentrate, for one thing. I was greatly helped by some private notes Amy Carmichael wrote to her "Family" (hundreds of children and their helpers, both Indian and European) in Dohnavur, South India, to help them prepare for a special day of prayer.
She quoted Paul's letter to the Colossians (2:1, KJV): "I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you." He is referring at least in part to the conflict of prayer. The same verse is translated "how greatly I strive" in the Revised Version; "how deep is my anxiety" in J.B. Phillips; and, in the Jerusalem Bible, "Yes, I want you to know that I do have to struggle hard for you... to bind you together in love and to stir your minds, so that your understanding may come to full development, until you really know God's secret in which all the jewels of wisdom and knowledge are hidden."
Here are Amy's notes:
WITH WHAT DID I STRUGGLE?
1. With all that says to me, what is the use of your praying? So many others, who know more of prayer than you do, are praying. What difference does it make whether you pray or not? Are you sure that your Lord is listening? Of course He is listening to the other prayers but yours are of such small account, are you really sure He is "bending His ear" to you?
2. With all that suggests that we are asked to give too much time to prayer. There is so much to do. Why set aside so much time just to pray?
3. With all that discourages me personally--perhaps the remembrance of past sin, perhaps spiritual or physical tiredness; with anything and everything that keeps me back from what occupied St. Paul so often--vital prayer.
WHAT WILL HELP ME MOST IN THIS WRESTLE?
1. The certain knowledge that our insignificance does not matter at all, for we do not come to the Father in our own name but in the Name of His beloved Son. His ear is always open to that Name. Of this we can be certain.
2. The certain knowledge that this is Satan's lie; he is much more afraid of our prayer than our work. (This is proved by the immense difficulties we always find when we set ourselves to pray. They are much greater than those we meet when we set ourselves to work.)
3. Isaiah 44:22 and kindred words, with 1 John 1:9, meet all distress about sin. Isaiah 40:29-31 with 2 Corinthians 12:9,10 meets everything that spiritual or physical weariness can do to hinder. Psalm 27:8 with Isaiah 45:19 meets all other difficulties. And the moment we say to our God, "Thy face, Lord, will I seek," His mighty energies come to the rescue. (See Colossians 1:2,9.) Greater, far greater, is He that is in us than he that is against us. Count on the greatness of God. But are we to go on wrestling to the end?
No, there is a point to which we come, when, utterly trusting the promise of our Father, we rest our hearts upon Him. It is then we are given what St. Paul calls access with confidence (Ephesians 3:12). But don't forget that this access is by faith, not by feeling, faith in Him our living Lord; He who says "Come unto Me" does not push us away when we come. As we go on, led by the Holy Spirit who so kindly helps our infirmities, we find ourselves in 1 John 5:14,15 and lastly in Philippians 4:6, . It is good to remember that immediate answer to prayer is not always something seen, but it is always inward peace.
And if the day ends otherwise and we are discouraged? Then tell Him so, "nothing ashamed of tears upon His feet" [here she is quoting from F.W.H. Meyers's poem "St. Paul"]. Lord, Thou knowest all things. Thou knowest that I love Thee. "Yes, my child, I know." But don't settle down into an "it will never be different" attitude. It will be different if only in earnest we follow on to know the Lord.
Depression has flirted all around. Panic and anxiety have been a plague. I felt attacked from all sides. Discouragement has been a regular occurance.
I didn't give up, though. Pushing forward, I've trusted God at every turn. There had to be an end and things would get better. God was using this to teach me, to make me grow, to draw me closer to him.
I'll admit I haven't always been good through this process. Sometime I complained because of how uncomfortable the whole thing has been. There were times when giving up would have been the easiest thing to do. There were times I grumbled. However, I continued to realize God was in control.
Yesterday was my yearly evaluation. I don't know what I expected. My boss actually asked if I wanted to be doing my job! He said I seemed 'frail' and unhappy. He suggested I might want to consider another career. He brough my health up and that I seem to get ill "a lot". He suggested I should make more of an effort to reunite the arts department.
In the end I passed my evaluation; however, I felt totally shreaded. I don't know what to do. Being a drama teacher has been amazing...teaching English has been awful. I want to be faithful. I want to be a good teacher. I just don't know. I didn't feel that he always understood or listened to what I tried to say.
It is amazing, though, how God is still in control. This morning, I opened an e-mail devotional. Elizabeth Elliot has been such a source of encouragement and teaching this year. God has continually sent me just what I needed just when I needed to hear it.
Prayer is Conflict
Prayer is no easy pastime. As I grow old I find that I am more conscious than ever of my need to pray, but it seems at the same time to become more of a struggle. It is harder to concentrate, for one thing. I was greatly helped by some private notes Amy Carmichael wrote to her "Family" (hundreds of children and their helpers, both Indian and European) in Dohnavur, South India, to help them prepare for a special day of prayer.
She quoted Paul's letter to the Colossians (2:1, KJV): "I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you." He is referring at least in part to the conflict of prayer. The same verse is translated "how greatly I strive" in the Revised Version; "how deep is my anxiety" in J.B. Phillips; and, in the Jerusalem Bible, "Yes, I want you to know that I do have to struggle hard for you... to bind you together in love and to stir your minds, so that your understanding may come to full development, until you really know God's secret in which all the jewels of wisdom and knowledge are hidden."
Here are Amy's notes:
WITH WHAT DID I STRUGGLE?
1. With all that says to me, what is the use of your praying? So many others, who know more of prayer than you do, are praying. What difference does it make whether you pray or not? Are you sure that your Lord is listening? Of course He is listening to the other prayers but yours are of such small account, are you really sure He is "bending His ear" to you?
2. With all that suggests that we are asked to give too much time to prayer. There is so much to do. Why set aside so much time just to pray?
3. With all that discourages me personally--perhaps the remembrance of past sin, perhaps spiritual or physical tiredness; with anything and everything that keeps me back from what occupied St. Paul so often--vital prayer.
WHAT WILL HELP ME MOST IN THIS WRESTLE?
1. The certain knowledge that our insignificance does not matter at all, for we do not come to the Father in our own name but in the Name of His beloved Son. His ear is always open to that Name. Of this we can be certain.
2. The certain knowledge that this is Satan's lie; he is much more afraid of our prayer than our work. (This is proved by the immense difficulties we always find when we set ourselves to pray. They are much greater than those we meet when we set ourselves to work.)
3. Isaiah 44:22 and kindred words, with 1 John 1:9, meet all distress about sin. Isaiah 40:29-31 with 2 Corinthians 12:9,10 meets everything that spiritual or physical weariness can do to hinder. Psalm 27:8 with Isaiah 45:19 meets all other difficulties. And the moment we say to our God, "Thy face, Lord, will I seek," His mighty energies come to the rescue. (See Colossians 1:2,9.) Greater, far greater, is He that is in us than he that is against us. Count on the greatness of God. But are we to go on wrestling to the end?
No, there is a point to which we come, when, utterly trusting the promise of our Father, we rest our hearts upon Him. It is then we are given what St. Paul calls access with confidence (Ephesians 3:12). But don't forget that this access is by faith, not by feeling, faith in Him our living Lord; He who says "Come unto Me" does not push us away when we come. As we go on, led by the Holy Spirit who so kindly helps our infirmities, we find ourselves in 1 John 5:14,15 and lastly in Philippians 4:6, . It is good to remember that immediate answer to prayer is not always something seen, but it is always inward peace.
And if the day ends otherwise and we are discouraged? Then tell Him so, "nothing ashamed of tears upon His feet" [here she is quoting from F.W.H. Meyers's poem "St. Paul"]. Lord, Thou knowest all things. Thou knowest that I love Thee. "Yes, my child, I know." But don't settle down into an "it will never be different" attitude. It will be different if only in earnest we follow on to know the Lord.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Blah and Blech!!!
Today I am BLAH!!!!!! I've been sick for a week (bronchitis) and had to take a day and a half off of work (which I never do). I went back to work today...a 15.5 hour day...great. My voice is still gone and I had to use it way too much. I feel discouraged and totally used up;. My boss mentioned this evening that I "seem to get sick a lot."...great! I'm sure he'll use this against me now. Stuff just doesn't feel right right now. So much feels...well, off. Tom seems obsessed with the finances; however, I don't know what I am supposed to do. Yes, school isn't cheap; however, doing this will help in the long run. I didn't get the scholarship; however, I might get it next year. I feel guilty about spending a dollar sometimes because of school. There are times he seems focused on the debt; however, there always seems to be enough for other stuff. I'm not a wife that claims my pay is "mine" to do with as I please. I contribute the whole to our account. I work as hard as I can for the pay I receive and there are days it just doesn't seem enough.
I'm off right now and it's making the world askew. It feels like people are shoving their problems in my direction and I'm supposed to shoulder it all. Oh...and someone is stealing stuff from Drama...again.
It feels like a spiritual attack from every side. I don't know what the lesson is I should be learning. I don't know if I am being directed to move or what that direction would even be. I'm tying to trust...I'm trying to lean...I'm trying to listen...But am I?????
So, today I am BLAH!!! Today I am BLECH!!!!! Tomorrow I will put a smile on my face and wash cars so my students can have their trip to Tampa. Tomorrow will be a new day...Tomorrow has no mistakes in it, yet.
Lord??? Help!!!!!!!!
I'm off right now and it's making the world askew. It feels like people are shoving their problems in my direction and I'm supposed to shoulder it all. Oh...and someone is stealing stuff from Drama...again.
It feels like a spiritual attack from every side. I don't know what the lesson is I should be learning. I don't know if I am being directed to move or what that direction would even be. I'm tying to trust...I'm trying to lean...I'm trying to listen...But am I?????
So, today I am BLAH!!! Today I am BLECH!!!!! Tomorrow I will put a smile on my face and wash cars so my students can have their trip to Tampa. Tomorrow will be a new day...Tomorrow has no mistakes in it, yet.
Lord??? Help!!!!!!!!
Thursday, April 12, 2007
A quote for today...
We look forward to the time when the Power of Love will replace the Love of Power. Then will our world know the blessings of peace.
~William Gladstone
~William Gladstone
Saturday, March 31, 2007
a quote I saw today...
Why do we let the one thing we don't have affect how we feel about all the things we do have?
Carrie Bradshaw
Hmmmmm...this could easily be a world philosophy in a nutshell.
Carrie Bradshaw
Hmmmmm...this could easily be a world philosophy in a nutshell.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
a prayer for today....
Lord, teach me to take gladly the place You have assigned to me and to submit humbly to those over me, that I may do my part to keep the smooth and proper functioning of the body of Christ.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Who really is in charge....
Author: Elisabeth Elliot
Source: A Lamp For My Feet
Scripture: Exodus 16:6
Who is in Charge?
The people of Israel complained loudly against Moses for having brought them out into a wilderness where there was nothing to their liking. "Better to have died in Egypt!" they said.
"It was the Lord who brought you out," Moses told them(Ex 16:6-8). "It is against the Lord that you bring your complaints, and not against us."
When we are angry or offended, let us be careful to note where our real complaint lies. This person who insults me at the office or on the bus, this husband who rides roughshod over my feelings, this insensitive individual who does not understand or appreciate me--is he not one whom God has put in my life for my good? Who, after all, is really in charge?
Let us beware of rebellion against the Lord. Circumstances are of his choosing, because He wants to bless us, to lead us (even through the wilderness) out of Egypt, that is, out of ourselves. Settle the complaint with God, and it will settle other things. Be offended with God, and you will be offended with everyone who crosses your path.
Source: A Lamp For My Feet
Scripture: Exodus 16:6
Who is in Charge?
The people of Israel complained loudly against Moses for having brought them out into a wilderness where there was nothing to their liking. "Better to have died in Egypt!" they said.
"It was the Lord who brought you out," Moses told them(Ex 16:6-8). "It is against the Lord that you bring your complaints, and not against us."
When we are angry or offended, let us be careful to note where our real complaint lies. This person who insults me at the office or on the bus, this husband who rides roughshod over my feelings, this insensitive individual who does not understand or appreciate me--is he not one whom God has put in my life for my good? Who, after all, is really in charge?
Let us beware of rebellion against the Lord. Circumstances are of his choosing, because He wants to bless us, to lead us (even through the wilderness) out of Egypt, that is, out of ourselves. Settle the complaint with God, and it will settle other things. Be offended with God, and you will be offended with everyone who crosses your path.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Thought for today...March 10
"Being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will" (Eph. 1:11).
There is no such thing as chance as far as God is concerned.
What a comfort!!!!!!!
There is no such thing as chance as far as God is concerned.
What a comfort!!!!!!!
Sunday, March 04, 2007
What I learned today...4 March 2007
Yes, I'm back to sharing devotionals. This is not because I can't think for myself, or that I don't have plenty to say! Rather it is because God brought these words across my path at exactly the right time and to exactly show me something I needed to learn. Right now I am waiting: for answers, for direction, for guidance, for a lot, actually. It seems I should continue to wait for now, and this is something I struggle with. Waiting is difficult; however, wait I shall. I will wait and pray and will be confident that the answers will come when God sees fit.
(I did change the personal pronouns from 'we' to 'I'. It isn't to diminish the authors writing but, rather, to make it more of a confessional and prayer.)
Author: Theodore Epp
Source: Strength for the Journey
Scripture Reference Genesis 27:1-17 Psalm 37:34
Impatient to Wait on God
Genesis 27:1-17
One faithless act leads to another. Having schemed to secure the birthright, Jacob deceived his father in order to secure the blessing, which was a vital part of the birthright.
Jacob needed not only the birthright from Esau but also the blessing from his father. One was of no value without the other.
Although Esau was the favorite son of his father, Jacob was the favorite son of his mother.
Isaac was making plans to pass the blessing on to his favorite son, but Rebekah was not about to have Jacob left out--especially since God had indicated the blessing was to be Jacob's. Rebekah devised a counterplot.
Rebekah's sin was that she lacked faith in God's ability. She felt she had to help God accomplish His will.
While the intended goal was legitimate, the means she used to accomplish it were not honoring to God. She thought God must be frustrated concerning His plan and, therefore, needed her help.
Some people say, "The Lord helps those who help themselves." This is not true. The truth is that God helps those who come to the end of themselves.
What I need is patience to wait on God. He is able to do everything He has said He will do, and He will always do it on time.
"Wait on the Lord, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land" (Ps. 37:34).
(I did change the personal pronouns from 'we' to 'I'. It isn't to diminish the authors writing but, rather, to make it more of a confessional and prayer.)
Author: Theodore Epp
Source: Strength for the Journey
Scripture Reference Genesis 27:1-17 Psalm 37:34
Impatient to Wait on God
Genesis 27:1-17
One faithless act leads to another. Having schemed to secure the birthright, Jacob deceived his father in order to secure the blessing, which was a vital part of the birthright.
Jacob needed not only the birthright from Esau but also the blessing from his father. One was of no value without the other.
Although Esau was the favorite son of his father, Jacob was the favorite son of his mother.
Isaac was making plans to pass the blessing on to his favorite son, but Rebekah was not about to have Jacob left out--especially since God had indicated the blessing was to be Jacob's. Rebekah devised a counterplot.
Rebekah's sin was that she lacked faith in God's ability. She felt she had to help God accomplish His will.
While the intended goal was legitimate, the means she used to accomplish it were not honoring to God. She thought God must be frustrated concerning His plan and, therefore, needed her help.
Some people say, "The Lord helps those who help themselves." This is not true. The truth is that God helps those who come to the end of themselves.
What I need is patience to wait on God. He is able to do everything He has said He will do, and He will always do it on time.
"Wait on the Lord, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land" (Ps. 37:34).
Monday, February 26, 2007
A birthday poem from an on-line friend...
I got this today from an on-line friend and was really touched by it. I guess I just wanted to save it for posterity...
Shakespeare said: "the play's the thing" and G_G knows that's true,
She's teacher, coach, and cheering squad to teens who love stage too--
At monologue, dialogue, production and direction, this gal's a wiz,
Her mission's motivation, inspiration,to the coming generation in Show-Biz.
Gadget rest? you jest...she burns the midnight oil for classes at FSU,
The Mama of Drama is earning her Masters and teaching full-time, phew!
Happy Birthday G_G!!, glad you made your entrance on earth's stage,
God's writing the script of your life, hallelujah, glory and praise!
So light up the candles, ring up the curtain on the chocolate tarts,
Celebrate Gadget, we, your audience, applaud you, with all our hearts!
Shakespeare said: "the play's the thing" and G_G knows that's true,
She's teacher, coach, and cheering squad to teens who love stage too--
At monologue, dialogue, production and direction, this gal's a wiz,
Her mission's motivation, inspiration,to the coming generation in Show-Biz.
Gadget rest? you jest...she burns the midnight oil for classes at FSU,
The Mama of Drama is earning her Masters and teaching full-time, phew!
Happy Birthday G_G!!, glad you made your entrance on earth's stage,
God's writing the script of your life, hallelujah, glory and praise!
So light up the candles, ring up the curtain on the chocolate tarts,
Celebrate Gadget, we, your audience, applaud you, with all our hearts!
my Birthday...
Another birthday...another year...so much has happened, good and bad.
I sat in my office today during lunch and heard my students in my classroom. I had been "banished" to my office until they told me it was OK to return. They were laughing and having fun. They were decorating my room with crape paper and a balloon. One had gotten me a cake (with purple icing!!!!!) and a package of Twizzlers and a package of Twix. They had purple 'My little pony" plates and a Disney princess balloon. They didn't have matches to light candles (especially a 29!) so they improvised with cell phones that they snapped shut after singing to me and having me "blow out the candles"! Several of them got me cards and one made me a card. One gave me a glass penguin and another won a pink teddy bear for me (it was the first thing she had ever won). It was, without a doubt, some of the sweetest things someone could have done. They gave of themselves completely and without reservation. They remembered to tell me "Happy Birthday" and sent MySpace messages and comments...they gave me hugs. They are amazing...I can't imagine a life without the blessings of these kids
Through an online Message Board I belong to I've received well wishes, e-mails, prayers and even a poem! They have embraced me and accept me for who I am.
By contrast, I almost got 'run over' by someone I used to consider a friend...he didn't even say 'excuse me' when he pushed past...he really has gotten to be a JERK!!! My principal put a card in my box and put a note from Applebee's "good for $5" in the card; however, it was for a March Student of the Month...which had been crossed out and "Feb birthday" had been scrawled in. It felt like something expected...like it was something he "had" to do...
Then there was the FCAT...first day of the testing. Administrating...again. I don't like the FCAT, and I don't like administrating.
Ah well...it is a year full of promise. I am excited to see what God has to reveal to me this year. (is praying for a new job a bad thing?????)
I sat in my office today during lunch and heard my students in my classroom. I had been "banished" to my office until they told me it was OK to return. They were laughing and having fun. They were decorating my room with crape paper and a balloon. One had gotten me a cake (with purple icing!!!!!) and a package of Twizzlers and a package of Twix. They had purple 'My little pony" plates and a Disney princess balloon. They didn't have matches to light candles (especially a 29!) so they improvised with cell phones that they snapped shut after singing to me and having me "blow out the candles"! Several of them got me cards and one made me a card. One gave me a glass penguin and another won a pink teddy bear for me (it was the first thing she had ever won). It was, without a doubt, some of the sweetest things someone could have done. They gave of themselves completely and without reservation. They remembered to tell me "Happy Birthday" and sent MySpace messages and comments...they gave me hugs. They are amazing...I can't imagine a life without the blessings of these kids
Through an online Message Board I belong to I've received well wishes, e-mails, prayers and even a poem! They have embraced me and accept me for who I am.
By contrast, I almost got 'run over' by someone I used to consider a friend...he didn't even say 'excuse me' when he pushed past...he really has gotten to be a JERK!!! My principal put a card in my box and put a note from Applebee's "good for $5" in the card; however, it was for a March Student of the Month...which had been crossed out and "Feb birthday" had been scrawled in. It felt like something expected...like it was something he "had" to do...
Then there was the FCAT...first day of the testing. Administrating...again. I don't like the FCAT, and I don't like administrating.
Ah well...it is a year full of promise. I am excited to see what God has to reveal to me this year. (is praying for a new job a bad thing?????)
Sunday, January 28, 2007
The reason I do my job (aka "I Win")
The weekend was...good; however, it was discouraging. Maybe in a few days I can write about it. In the mean time, here is something one of the students who went this weekend wrote and posted. In the midst of my discouragement, her words reminded me of why I do my job and that success isn't always measured by scores or the accolades of the crowds but in how my students feel about the job they did. Indeed, they won.
3793
I just want to let all of you know how much fun I had this weekend.You are all amazing!!Some of the nicest people I have met in a long time.Even though I am an authentic chorus kid you all welcomed me in and I am glad to have made some new friends.In fact spending this weekend with all of you has made me want to do more stuff with drama.Saturday was the first time I have ever had to act while singing.I thought it would be 10times harder but being comfortable with the people watching really helped.I am proud of all of you for your performance on Friday and I think you deserved way more than what was given.You have converted me from strictly a chorus geek to a chorus/theatre geek.
P.S
how you doin?
The Cast and crew of "The Winner". They are my heros and, no matter what anyone else says, they are Superior Winners in my book
Me with my seniors. They amaze me and "because I knew 'them' I have been changed for good".
The juniors...I am in awe of what they are capable of doing.
The sophomores...though there were but 3 this year; their talent, beauty and potential is incredible.
The freshmen...the future
Am I am blessed with besutiful children, or what???? They may not be mine biologically; yet, they are mine in my heart. Indeed, I have a quiver-full. I wonder, at times, if they know how much they have taught me??? Their capacity to love, encourage, perform, create, teach, learn, share and more knows no bounds.
3793
I just want to let all of you know how much fun I had this weekend.You are all amazing!!Some of the nicest people I have met in a long time.Even though I am an authentic chorus kid you all welcomed me in and I am glad to have made some new friends.In fact spending this weekend with all of you has made me want to do more stuff with drama.Saturday was the first time I have ever had to act while singing.I thought it would be 10times harder but being comfortable with the people watching really helped.I am proud of all of you for your performance on Friday and I think you deserved way more than what was given.You have converted me from strictly a chorus geek to a chorus/theatre geek.
P.S
how you doin?
The Cast and crew of "The Winner". They are my heros and, no matter what anyone else says, they are Superior Winners in my book
Me with my seniors. They amaze me and "because I knew 'them' I have been changed for good".
The juniors...I am in awe of what they are capable of doing.
The sophomores...though there were but 3 this year; their talent, beauty and potential is incredible.
The freshmen...the future
Am I am blessed with besutiful children, or what???? They may not be mine biologically; yet, they are mine in my heart. Indeed, I have a quiver-full. I wonder, at times, if they know how much they have taught me??? Their capacity to love, encourage, perform, create, teach, learn, share and more knows no bounds.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
A recent article by my brother
It is amazing the ways my brother has changed over the last 10 years. If anyone had told him his senior year he would still be in school and would be working on a PhD, I doubt he would have believed it. Ten years ago, John was coming out of a "slacker" phase. High school wasn't the greatest experience for John. Then God got ahold of him. Those 6 words don't really begin to explain his story...which is his to tell...but they do show a lot. John was radically changed. That isn't to say he wasn't already a pretty amazing person, but I am a bit biased. He is one of the most interesting, creative, fun, loving, caring, enthusiastic, radical, goofy people I know (and that is saying a lot!).
John is currently living in Edinburgh, Scotland. Yeah...I'm a little jealous. I would love to be able to live in England or Scotland for at least a year or so! (hmmmmm...God, could you open that door???). I am excited that he is having such amazing experiences. It's hard being this far away from him, though. While things are far from easy for him, the doors do seem to be tumbing open and God is directing his paths.
He recently published an article on John Owen. (John Owen is the Reformer John is focused on in his PhD writings) I have to laugh that John is so captured by the Reformation. In my 'world' the Reformation is a paragraph or so of information...the Reformers weren't exactly know for their advancements in theatre. The reformers closed the theatres...deeming them 'immoral' once again. So...John can have the reformers and I'll take Shakespeare...the Restoration...the Greeks...the Romans...19th Century...you get the idea. I guess we can come together on the Liturgical Drama...lol.
Here's the link to his article...
John is currently living in Edinburgh, Scotland. Yeah...I'm a little jealous. I would love to be able to live in England or Scotland for at least a year or so! (hmmmmm...God, could you open that door???). I am excited that he is having such amazing experiences. It's hard being this far away from him, though. While things are far from easy for him, the doors do seem to be tumbing open and God is directing his paths.
He recently published an article on John Owen. (John Owen is the Reformer John is focused on in his PhD writings) I have to laugh that John is so captured by the Reformation. In my 'world' the Reformation is a paragraph or so of information...the Reformers weren't exactly know for their advancements in theatre. The reformers closed the theatres...deeming them 'immoral' once again. So...John can have the reformers and I'll take Shakespeare...the Restoration...the Greeks...the Romans...19th Century...you get the idea. I guess we can come together on the Liturgical Drama...lol.
Here's the link to his article...
Monday, January 15, 2007
A thought from MLK of MLK
If a man is called to be a streetsweeper, he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause and say, here lived a great streetsweeper who did his job well.
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
I don't know if I could say anything more on this one.
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
I don't know if I could say anything more on this one.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
More thoughts from Elizabeth Elliot, this time on Spontaneity
Carlyle wrote of nineteen-to-twenty-five-year-old youths that they had reached "the maximum of detestability." We have been telling ourselves that youth is beautiful and spontaneity one of the most beautiful things about youth. I wonder if spontaneity is not sometimes a euphemism for laziness--an indulgence which Carlyle found in youth. Isn't it much easier not to prepare one's mind and heart, not to premeditate, simply to have things (O, vacuous word!) "unstructured"?
If you leave a thing altogether alone in hopes that it will happen all by itself, the chances are it never will. Who learns to play the piano, wins an election, or loses weight spontaneously?
I have just read Jean Nidetch's book on the Weight Watchers, and while it is obvious that her basic theme (that people get fat because they eat) is hardly a world-shaking discovery, her method is one that made her a millionaire: get people to work at their problems together. Reducing doesn't just happen. It isn't a thing the majority succeed in doing all by themselves.
She doesn't let them make up their own diet as they go along--that's what put the fat on them in the first place. She doesn't suggest that losing weight is best done when you feel like it. She doesn't even say that it works only if you are being "yourself."
In fact, I was reminded throughout the book of how many analogies there are between losing weight and practicing Christianity. There are rules to obey. You will to obey them. Some people insist that the devotional life is somehow purer
or better if it is pursued only when we feel like it. Worship for some is thought to be an "experience" rather than an act. Losing weight is also an experience--there's no doubt about that--in fact, the expression "being born again" occurs in the testimonies of those who have done it. But losing weight most certainly has to begin with an act.
It is an act of the will. You decide to do this and not to do that. You must arrange, prepare, and carefully carry out your plan. The combustion of those daily calories will happen without fail, but only when the conditions are properly set up.
Love is another thing. ''But I want it to be spontaneous," people say. They think that if nothing is happening it is good enough reason for a divorce. "If it isn't spontaneous, it isn't love," they tell us. Where did that idea get started? Do we understand what spontaneity requires?
The kind of love the Bible talks about is action, and it comes from a force and an energy within. That energy is the love of Christ. His love creates the condition of heart (it does not come from nowhere) which enables us to do things: to give a cup of cold water, to go a second mile, to "look for a way of being constructive," as Phillips' translation puts 1 Corinthians 13:4.
"It is, in fact, the one thing that still stands when everything else has fallen."
Christian love is a far cry from a misunderstood spontaneity which is merely unstructured. This love is a very firm and solid thing indeed, requiring will, obedience, action, and an abiding trust in the "Strong Son of God, Immortal Love."
If you leave a thing altogether alone in hopes that it will happen all by itself, the chances are it never will. Who learns to play the piano, wins an election, or loses weight spontaneously?
I have just read Jean Nidetch's book on the Weight Watchers, and while it is obvious that her basic theme (that people get fat because they eat) is hardly a world-shaking discovery, her method is one that made her a millionaire: get people to work at their problems together. Reducing doesn't just happen. It isn't a thing the majority succeed in doing all by themselves.
She doesn't let them make up their own diet as they go along--that's what put the fat on them in the first place. She doesn't suggest that losing weight is best done when you feel like it. She doesn't even say that it works only if you are being "yourself."
In fact, I was reminded throughout the book of how many analogies there are between losing weight and practicing Christianity. There are rules to obey. You will to obey them. Some people insist that the devotional life is somehow purer
or better if it is pursued only when we feel like it. Worship for some is thought to be an "experience" rather than an act. Losing weight is also an experience--there's no doubt about that--in fact, the expression "being born again" occurs in the testimonies of those who have done it. But losing weight most certainly has to begin with an act.
It is an act of the will. You decide to do this and not to do that. You must arrange, prepare, and carefully carry out your plan. The combustion of those daily calories will happen without fail, but only when the conditions are properly set up.
Love is another thing. ''But I want it to be spontaneous," people say. They think that if nothing is happening it is good enough reason for a divorce. "If it isn't spontaneous, it isn't love," they tell us. Where did that idea get started? Do we understand what spontaneity requires?
The kind of love the Bible talks about is action, and it comes from a force and an energy within. That energy is the love of Christ. His love creates the condition of heart (it does not come from nowhere) which enables us to do things: to give a cup of cold water, to go a second mile, to "look for a way of being constructive," as Phillips' translation puts 1 Corinthians 13:4.
"It is, in fact, the one thing that still stands when everything else has fallen."
Christian love is a far cry from a misunderstood spontaneity which is merely unstructured. This love is a very firm and solid thing indeed, requiring will, obedience, action, and an abiding trust in the "Strong Son of God, Immortal Love."
Sunday, December 31, 2006
As I start this new year...
Lets start of with the New Year reaffirming in our hearts these truths of our position with Christ! Believe!
In Christ we are accepted:
*John 1:12 I am God's Child
*John 15:15 I am Christ's friend
*Romans 5:1 I have been justified
*1 Corinthians 6:17 I am united with the Lord and one with Him in spirit
*1 Corinthians 6:20 I have been bought with a price- I belong to God
*1 Corinthians 12:27 I am a member of Christ's body
*Ephesians 1:1 I am a saint
*Ephesians 1:5 I have been adopted as God's child
*Ephesians 2:18 I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit
*Colossians 1:4 I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins
*Colossians 2:10 I am complete in Christ.
In Christ we are Secure:
*Romans 8:1,2 I am free from condemnation
*Romans 8:28 I am asssured that all things work together for good
*Romans 8:31-34 I am free from any condemning charges against me
*Romans 8:35-39 I cannot be separated from the love of God
*2 Corinthians 1:21,22 I have been established, anointed, and sealed by God
*Colossians 3:3 I am hidden with Christ in God
*Philippians 1:6 I am confident that the good work that God has begun in me will be perfected.
*Philippians 3:20 I am a citizen of heaven
*2 Timothy 1:7 I have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind
*Hebrews 4:16 I can find grace and mercy in time of need
*1 John 5:18 I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me
In Christ We Are Significant
*Matthew 5:13 I am the salt and light of the earth
*John 15:1,5 I am a branch of the true vine, a channel of His life
*John 15:16 I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit
*Acts 1:8 I am a personal witness of Christ's
*1 Corinthians 3:16 I am God's temple
*2 Corinthians 5:17-20 I am a minister of reconciliation
*Ephesians 2:6 I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realm
*Ephesians 2:10 I am God's workmanship
*Ephesians 3:12 I may approach God with freedom and confidence
*Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me
From the Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson
In Christ we are accepted:
*John 1:12 I am God's Child
*John 15:15 I am Christ's friend
*Romans 5:1 I have been justified
*1 Corinthians 6:17 I am united with the Lord and one with Him in spirit
*1 Corinthians 6:20 I have been bought with a price- I belong to God
*1 Corinthians 12:27 I am a member of Christ's body
*Ephesians 1:1 I am a saint
*Ephesians 1:5 I have been adopted as God's child
*Ephesians 2:18 I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit
*Colossians 1:4 I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins
*Colossians 2:10 I am complete in Christ.
In Christ we are Secure:
*Romans 8:1,2 I am free from condemnation
*Romans 8:28 I am asssured that all things work together for good
*Romans 8:31-34 I am free from any condemning charges against me
*Romans 8:35-39 I cannot be separated from the love of God
*2 Corinthians 1:21,22 I have been established, anointed, and sealed by God
*Colossians 3:3 I am hidden with Christ in God
*Philippians 1:6 I am confident that the good work that God has begun in me will be perfected.
*Philippians 3:20 I am a citizen of heaven
*2 Timothy 1:7 I have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind
*Hebrews 4:16 I can find grace and mercy in time of need
*1 John 5:18 I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me
In Christ We Are Significant
*Matthew 5:13 I am the salt and light of the earth
*John 15:1,5 I am a branch of the true vine, a channel of His life
*John 15:16 I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit
*Acts 1:8 I am a personal witness of Christ's
*1 Corinthians 3:16 I am God's temple
*2 Corinthians 5:17-20 I am a minister of reconciliation
*Ephesians 2:6 I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realm
*Ephesians 2:10 I am God's workmanship
*Ephesians 3:12 I may approach God with freedom and confidence
*Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me
From the Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Some thoughts I discovered (and have thought)...
There are several blogs I read...most belong to people I know; however, there are a few I have discovered along the way. The following are some thoughts that I have thought but haven't written down. Paulie Perrette (an actress I really respect) posted these on her blog...I hope she won't mind my borrowing them to share as well!!! (I did slightly alter a few of these so they will fit into my life)
- I realized that as much as I love new or clean tube socks, they're not quite as great as the ones my dog throws around and chews on.
- I realized that some people are just disgusting and perverted and no amount of truth will change them. Best just to surround yourself with love, as always, and ignore the disgusting and perverted.
- Some people have twisted lies told about them, and it will always be recognized in the end. Be careful who and what you listen to. Liars are often charming.
- Drama should be saved only for the screen or stage, at all costs.
- I realized that some girls are hateful and jealous and awful and really hate their sister femmes. That's sad.
- Listening to cheesy songs by yourself is very satisfying and entertaining.
- I-Pod should've told us in the beginning that eventually, the battery would die and there is nothing you can do about it. An old walk-man still runs.
- I realized how happy I am to have real friends instead of only a "top" list on myspace.com. I actually hug mine every chaqnce I get.
- I remember to feed my pets more than I remember to feed myself.
- Women have to stick up for each other and stand up for themselves. My granny used to say, "I don't need no
stinkin' man around no more". Yup, that's when a girl can truly love herself, and then love a GOOD man.
-Clean sheets and pillow cases are something that should be in your thank you prayers at night.
- There is nothing finer than real friends, even when you aren't getting along, they have your back no matter what. And if they don't...? Well, there's your answer.
- Having a husband like mine (I LOVE,LOVE,LOVE YOU!)
and friends like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and pets like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and co-workers like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and students like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and neighbors like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
are all things I say thank you prayers for every night and every morning and every chance I get.
- Changing my life for the better was worth everything, in spite of all the haters, and their hate and lies make them ugly, ugly ugly, people. My loved ones are so, so beautiful.
Girl Smiles In Spite Of It All.
Very grateful for the good things right now.
In spite of it all.
(like my dog who is staring at me grinning right now)
- I realized that as much as I love new or clean tube socks, they're not quite as great as the ones my dog throws around and chews on.
- I realized that some people are just disgusting and perverted and no amount of truth will change them. Best just to surround yourself with love, as always, and ignore the disgusting and perverted.
- Some people have twisted lies told about them, and it will always be recognized in the end. Be careful who and what you listen to. Liars are often charming.
- Drama should be saved only for the screen or stage, at all costs.
- I realized that some girls are hateful and jealous and awful and really hate their sister femmes. That's sad.
- Listening to cheesy songs by yourself is very satisfying and entertaining.
- I-Pod should've told us in the beginning that eventually, the battery would die and there is nothing you can do about it. An old walk-man still runs.
- I realized how happy I am to have real friends instead of only a "top" list on myspace.com. I actually hug mine every chaqnce I get.
- I remember to feed my pets more than I remember to feed myself.
- Women have to stick up for each other and stand up for themselves. My granny used to say, "I don't need no
stinkin' man around no more". Yup, that's when a girl can truly love herself, and then love a GOOD man.
-Clean sheets and pillow cases are something that should be in your thank you prayers at night.
- There is nothing finer than real friends, even when you aren't getting along, they have your back no matter what. And if they don't...? Well, there's your answer.
- Having a husband like mine (I LOVE,LOVE,LOVE YOU!)
and friends like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and pets like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and co-workers like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and students like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and neighbors like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
are all things I say thank you prayers for every night and every morning and every chance I get.
- Changing my life for the better was worth everything, in spite of all the haters, and their hate and lies make them ugly, ugly ugly, people. My loved ones are so, so beautiful.
Girl Smiles In Spite Of It All.
Very grateful for the good things right now.
In spite of it all.
(like my dog who is staring at me grinning right now)
Monday, December 25, 2006
Being alone on Christmas...is it good or bad???
Christmas is the season to be jolly, but some people want to spend it alone. Christine Aziz investigates
When you open your presents on Christmas morning with friends and family, spare a thought for those who will be spending the day alone. The chances are, as you grimace at yet another of Uncle Tom's dreadful jokes, you'll be wishing you could join them.
A solitary Christmas certainly has its perks. Since she has been living away from home, graphic artist, Marie Edmunds, 28, has spent most of her Christmases alone in her spacious Brighton flat. 'I tell my boyfriend to get lost, then I batten down the hatches and withdraw from the world,' she says with relish.
Marie is not a loner by nature. Outgoing and fun, she's always up for a party, but there is something about Christmas that makes her withdraw. But it's not easy.
'My family and friends just can't understand it. As far as they are concerned Christmas is about being with people you love, but I find it all too much,' she says. 'People try too hard on the day to enjoy themselves and it all gets tense. In my family we have our Nan down, who we hardly see in the year. All she does is pick fault in everyone and my parents get very tense. I just hate all the forced jollity that comes with Christmas. I prefer to avoid it and do my own thing.'
Her boyfriend, John, is now used to Marie's Christmas boycott and has stopped inviting her to share the day with his large and boisterous family. He's finally got the message but the problem is, no one else has. The moment anyone knows you're going to spend Christmas alone they start inviting you to spend it with them, even if they hardly know you. They can't believe you actually want to be alone,' she says.
Marie now lies about her Christmas. 'I tell everyone I am spending it with a friend or my family, depending on whom I am talking to,' she says. 'My family say I am selfish and I once had someone who knew I was lying, threaten to come over and kidnap me and take me to his house for Christmas where his family, all strangers to me, would be present. Now, personally, I can't think of anything more depressing than spending the day with a crowd of strangers. But the thought that he was doing something in the cause of not allowing anyone to be alone at Christmas made him happy. I was tempted to give in - but lied instead and faked a serious case of flu.'
So, what does Marie do on Christmas Day? 'I get up in the morning as late as I want. I open my presents one at a time when I want, not in a big rush. I have dinner either at home or in a restaurant and eat what I want, when I want to. I walk along the beach and watch all the families - most of whom you can tell are not having a good time. I go down to my neighbour downstairs, a brilliant old lady of 90, who also likes to be alone on Christmas Day. I stay about an hour, wish her well, and then leave. I spend the rest of the day either curled up with a good book or watching a video.'
If it sounds like heaven to you then go for it. But before you do:
Ask yourself why you want to be alone on a day that is traditionally a social occasion associated with family gatherings. Are there hidden agendas you haven't dealt with during the year? Are you burnt out? Are you expected to do things on Christmas Day that you don't like doing, but do them anyway to please everyone? Or do you genuinely want to enjoy some time in your own company.
Be prepared for emotional blackmail when you tell loved ones your plans. Reassure them that you are not rejecting them, but it is about your needs at this time. Appease them by fixing to spend a day with them after Christmas.
Unless you really have to, try not to lie about your whereabouts. Explain why you want to be alone and stick to it.
Put a note on your door saying you have gone for a walk, in case someone is sent to pick you up, despite your wishes. (Marie says, don't open the door!)
Make sure you have enough food in for two days, and buy lots of treats.
If during the day, you start to feel miserable and wish you weren't alone, pick up the phone and dial a friend. You have nothing to prove.
When you open your presents on Christmas morning with friends and family, spare a thought for those who will be spending the day alone. The chances are, as you grimace at yet another of Uncle Tom's dreadful jokes, you'll be wishing you could join them.
A solitary Christmas certainly has its perks. Since she has been living away from home, graphic artist, Marie Edmunds, 28, has spent most of her Christmases alone in her spacious Brighton flat. 'I tell my boyfriend to get lost, then I batten down the hatches and withdraw from the world,' she says with relish.
Marie is not a loner by nature. Outgoing and fun, she's always up for a party, but there is something about Christmas that makes her withdraw. But it's not easy.
'My family and friends just can't understand it. As far as they are concerned Christmas is about being with people you love, but I find it all too much,' she says. 'People try too hard on the day to enjoy themselves and it all gets tense. In my family we have our Nan down, who we hardly see in the year. All she does is pick fault in everyone and my parents get very tense. I just hate all the forced jollity that comes with Christmas. I prefer to avoid it and do my own thing.'
Her boyfriend, John, is now used to Marie's Christmas boycott and has stopped inviting her to share the day with his large and boisterous family. He's finally got the message but the problem is, no one else has. The moment anyone knows you're going to spend Christmas alone they start inviting you to spend it with them, even if they hardly know you. They can't believe you actually want to be alone,' she says.
Marie now lies about her Christmas. 'I tell everyone I am spending it with a friend or my family, depending on whom I am talking to,' she says. 'My family say I am selfish and I once had someone who knew I was lying, threaten to come over and kidnap me and take me to his house for Christmas where his family, all strangers to me, would be present. Now, personally, I can't think of anything more depressing than spending the day with a crowd of strangers. But the thought that he was doing something in the cause of not allowing anyone to be alone at Christmas made him happy. I was tempted to give in - but lied instead and faked a serious case of flu.'
So, what does Marie do on Christmas Day? 'I get up in the morning as late as I want. I open my presents one at a time when I want, not in a big rush. I have dinner either at home or in a restaurant and eat what I want, when I want to. I walk along the beach and watch all the families - most of whom you can tell are not having a good time. I go down to my neighbour downstairs, a brilliant old lady of 90, who also likes to be alone on Christmas Day. I stay about an hour, wish her well, and then leave. I spend the rest of the day either curled up with a good book or watching a video.'
If it sounds like heaven to you then go for it. But before you do:
Ask yourself why you want to be alone on a day that is traditionally a social occasion associated with family gatherings. Are there hidden agendas you haven't dealt with during the year? Are you burnt out? Are you expected to do things on Christmas Day that you don't like doing, but do them anyway to please everyone? Or do you genuinely want to enjoy some time in your own company.
Be prepared for emotional blackmail when you tell loved ones your plans. Reassure them that you are not rejecting them, but it is about your needs at this time. Appease them by fixing to spend a day with them after Christmas.
Unless you really have to, try not to lie about your whereabouts. Explain why you want to be alone and stick to it.
Put a note on your door saying you have gone for a walk, in case someone is sent to pick you up, despite your wishes. (Marie says, don't open the door!)
Make sure you have enough food in for two days, and buy lots of treats.
If during the day, you start to feel miserable and wish you weren't alone, pick up the phone and dial a friend. You have nothing to prove.
Christmas 2006
It is Christmas Day 2006 and I'm at home alone. Tom is working a 12, Maggie is alseep on the couch, the TV is on and it is raining. Started reading a new book but just can't get into it, yet. Since the BIG gift this year is a new Sony 60 gig hard drive video recorder, I'm transfering all of the old tapes onto one of the computers and copying them to DVD. In so many ways it feels like just another day. Being alone on holidays is hard...I never thought it would happen to me. My heart and prayers go out to all of those who are alone this holiday season. May the love of God reach you and comfort you. May He make himself known to you in amazing ways.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
The Christmas Coat...aka:There Really is a Santa
Is there a Santa? Find out in this holiday passalong, which will warm your heart and soul.
I remember my first Christmas adventure with Grandma. I was just a kid. I remember tearing across town on my bike to visit her on the day my big sister dropped the bomb: "There is no Santa Claus," she jeered. "Even dummies know that!"
My Grandma was not the gushy kind, never had been. I fled to her that day because I knew she would be straight with me. I knew Grandma always told the truth, and I knew that the truth always went down a whole lot easier when swallowed with one of her "world-famous" cinnamon buns. I knew they were world-famous, because Grandma said so.
It had to be true.
Grandma was home, and the buns were still warm. Between bites, I told her everything. She was ready for me. "No Santa Claus?" She snorted...."Ridiculous! Don't believe it. That rumor has been going around for years, and it makes me mad, plain mad!! Now, put on your coat, and let's go." "Go? Go where, Grandma?" I asked. I hadn't even finished my second world-famous cinnamon bun.
"Where" turned out to be Kerby's General Store, the one store in town that had a little bit of just about everything. As we walked through its doors, Grandma handed me ten dollars. That was a bundle in those days. "Take this money," she said, "and buy something for someone who needs it. I'll wait for you in the car. "Then she turned and walked out of Kerby's.
I was only eight years old. I'd often gone shopping with my mother, but never had I shopped for anything all by myself. The store seemed big and crowded, full of people scrambling to finish their Christmas shopping. For a few moments I just stood there, confused, clutching that ten-dollar bill, wondering what to buy, and who on earth to buy it for. I thought of everybody I knew: my family, my friends, my neighbors, the kids at school, and the people who went to my church.
I was just about thought out, when I suddenly thought of Bobby Decker. He was a kid with bad breath and messy hair, and he sat right behind me in Mrs. Pollock's grade-two class. Bobby Decker didn't have a coat. I knew that because he never went out to recess during the winter. His mother always wrote a note, telling the teacher that he had a cough, but all we kids knew that Bobby Decker didn't have a cough; he didn't have a good coat. I fingered the ten-dollar bill with growing excitement. I would buy Bobby Decker a coat!
I settled on a red corduroy one that had a hood to it. It looked real warm, and he would like that. "Is this a Christmas present for someone?" the lady behind the counter asked kindly, as I laid my ten dollars down. "Yes, ma'am," I replied shyly. "It's for Bobby." The nice lady smiled at me, as I told her about how Bobby really needed a good winter coat. I didn't get any change, but she put the coat in a bag, smiled again, and wished me a Merry Christmas.
That evening, Grandma helped me wrap the coat (a little tag fell out of the coat, and Grandma tucked it in her Bible) in Christmas paper and ribbons and wrote, "To Bobby, From Santa Claus" on it. Grandma said that Santa always insisted on secrecy. Then she drove me over to Bobby Decker's house, explaining as we went that I was now and forever officially, one of Santa's helpers.
Grandma parked down the street from Bobby's house, and she and I crept noiselessly and hid in the bushes by his front walk.
Then Grandma gave me a nudge. "All right, Santa Claus," she whispered, "get going." I took a deep breath, dashed for his front door, threw the present down on his step, pounded his door and flew back to the safety of the bushes and Grandma. Together we waited breathlessly in the darkness for the front door to open. Finally it did, and there stood Bobby.
Fifty years haven't dimmed the thrill of those moments spent shivering beside my Grandma in Bobby Decker's bushes. That night, I realized that those awful rumors about Santa Claus were just what Grandma said they were: ridiculous. Santa was alive and well, and we were on his team. I still have the Bible, with the coat tag tucked inside: $19.95.
I remember my first Christmas adventure with Grandma. I was just a kid. I remember tearing across town on my bike to visit her on the day my big sister dropped the bomb: "There is no Santa Claus," she jeered. "Even dummies know that!"
My Grandma was not the gushy kind, never had been. I fled to her that day because I knew she would be straight with me. I knew Grandma always told the truth, and I knew that the truth always went down a whole lot easier when swallowed with one of her "world-famous" cinnamon buns. I knew they were world-famous, because Grandma said so.
It had to be true.
Grandma was home, and the buns were still warm. Between bites, I told her everything. She was ready for me. "No Santa Claus?" She snorted...."Ridiculous! Don't believe it. That rumor has been going around for years, and it makes me mad, plain mad!! Now, put on your coat, and let's go." "Go? Go where, Grandma?" I asked. I hadn't even finished my second world-famous cinnamon bun.
"Where" turned out to be Kerby's General Store, the one store in town that had a little bit of just about everything. As we walked through its doors, Grandma handed me ten dollars. That was a bundle in those days. "Take this money," she said, "and buy something for someone who needs it. I'll wait for you in the car. "Then she turned and walked out of Kerby's.
I was only eight years old. I'd often gone shopping with my mother, but never had I shopped for anything all by myself. The store seemed big and crowded, full of people scrambling to finish their Christmas shopping. For a few moments I just stood there, confused, clutching that ten-dollar bill, wondering what to buy, and who on earth to buy it for. I thought of everybody I knew: my family, my friends, my neighbors, the kids at school, and the people who went to my church.
I was just about thought out, when I suddenly thought of Bobby Decker. He was a kid with bad breath and messy hair, and he sat right behind me in Mrs. Pollock's grade-two class. Bobby Decker didn't have a coat. I knew that because he never went out to recess during the winter. His mother always wrote a note, telling the teacher that he had a cough, but all we kids knew that Bobby Decker didn't have a cough; he didn't have a good coat. I fingered the ten-dollar bill with growing excitement. I would buy Bobby Decker a coat!
I settled on a red corduroy one that had a hood to it. It looked real warm, and he would like that. "Is this a Christmas present for someone?" the lady behind the counter asked kindly, as I laid my ten dollars down. "Yes, ma'am," I replied shyly. "It's for Bobby." The nice lady smiled at me, as I told her about how Bobby really needed a good winter coat. I didn't get any change, but she put the coat in a bag, smiled again, and wished me a Merry Christmas.
That evening, Grandma helped me wrap the coat (a little tag fell out of the coat, and Grandma tucked it in her Bible) in Christmas paper and ribbons and wrote, "To Bobby, From Santa Claus" on it. Grandma said that Santa always insisted on secrecy. Then she drove me over to Bobby Decker's house, explaining as we went that I was now and forever officially, one of Santa's helpers.
Grandma parked down the street from Bobby's house, and she and I crept noiselessly and hid in the bushes by his front walk.
Then Grandma gave me a nudge. "All right, Santa Claus," she whispered, "get going." I took a deep breath, dashed for his front door, threw the present down on his step, pounded his door and flew back to the safety of the bushes and Grandma. Together we waited breathlessly in the darkness for the front door to open. Finally it did, and there stood Bobby.
Fifty years haven't dimmed the thrill of those moments spent shivering beside my Grandma in Bobby Decker's bushes. That night, I realized that those awful rumors about Santa Claus were just what Grandma said they were: ridiculous. Santa was alive and well, and we were on his team. I still have the Bible, with the coat tag tucked inside: $19.95.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Truer than many realize
This comic has been online this week. It is sad this is as true as it is. In many ways, I feel this way this holiday season.
Is this what is "wrong with kids today"?
I receive a daily devotional from Elizabeth Eliot. I admire and respect so much of what she says and God has used her to teach me so many things. Lately, the topic of parenting has been a focus. It is interesting to see her point of view; however, I haven't agreed with some of her convictions. I know, thought, that it is OK not to believe everything she says. God will convict me of the things He feels I should do, or the things I havne't done.
In the midst of today's devotion on parenting she did offer the following insight. With everything that goes on at CRHS daily it did give me pause. Is this truly part of what is wrong with students????? If this is past of the issue, what can be done to resolve this?
Excerpts from "Serious Play, Casual Work"
Something has changed. Educators have gotten terribly serious about play and terribly casual about real physical work. Billions of dollars are lavished on developing crafts which nobody really needs and forms of recreation which people have to be taught to like. We've got "toys to grow on," computer games, play groups, playgrounds. Tiny tots who would have been happy with a few Tupperware containers and some spoons are given fancy mechanical toys that do things, and taught that if they make huge messes with finger paints they're being creative, which they didn't know they wanted to be.
Is anybody paying attention to how a child works? Is it assumed that if asked to rake a lawn he'll do it halfheartedly? Will he sweep the garage in silent fury or will he rejoice in doing a thorough job of it? Will she scrub a sink till it shines and know herself to be a useful member of a household? School teachers desperately try to teach children who have never really labored with their hands to do schoolwork--not a very good place to start, it seems to me. If a child is not given to understand that he has a responsibility to help make the wheels of home run smoothly--if he is not given work which matters, in other words--why should he imagine that it matters very much whether he cooperates with teachers and fellow students? His parents have failed to give attention to a vital matter. Their attention has been elsewhere--on their own interests, jobs, amusements, physical fitness, or only on the child's health and a misguided notion of happiness which leaves out work altogether. If the "quality time" his father spends with him is limited to amusements rather than work, small wonder the child assumes nobody really likes work. His choices in how to spend his time, like his preferences in food, are taught at home--by observation of parental attitudes.
Is the situation irremediable? I don't think so. Surely we could eliminate some of the frustration and discontent of "civilized" family life if we took our cues from the "uncivilized" people who work almost all the time (and enjoy it) and play very little of the time (without making a complicated chore out of it). Happiness, after all, is a choice. Let your child see that you put heart and soul into the work God has given you to do. Do it for Him--that changes the whole climate of the home. Draw the child into acceptance of responsibility by starting very early. Expect the best. If you expect them to oppose you, to "goof off," to be terrible at two, rude at ten, intractable as teenagers, they won't disappoint you.
In the midst of today's devotion on parenting she did offer the following insight. With everything that goes on at CRHS daily it did give me pause. Is this truly part of what is wrong with students????? If this is past of the issue, what can be done to resolve this?
Excerpts from "Serious Play, Casual Work"
Something has changed. Educators have gotten terribly serious about play and terribly casual about real physical work. Billions of dollars are lavished on developing crafts which nobody really needs and forms of recreation which people have to be taught to like. We've got "toys to grow on," computer games, play groups, playgrounds. Tiny tots who would have been happy with a few Tupperware containers and some spoons are given fancy mechanical toys that do things, and taught that if they make huge messes with finger paints they're being creative, which they didn't know they wanted to be.
Is anybody paying attention to how a child works? Is it assumed that if asked to rake a lawn he'll do it halfheartedly? Will he sweep the garage in silent fury or will he rejoice in doing a thorough job of it? Will she scrub a sink till it shines and know herself to be a useful member of a household? School teachers desperately try to teach children who have never really labored with their hands to do schoolwork--not a very good place to start, it seems to me. If a child is not given to understand that he has a responsibility to help make the wheels of home run smoothly--if he is not given work which matters, in other words--why should he imagine that it matters very much whether he cooperates with teachers and fellow students? His parents have failed to give attention to a vital matter. Their attention has been elsewhere--on their own interests, jobs, amusements, physical fitness, or only on the child's health and a misguided notion of happiness which leaves out work altogether. If the "quality time" his father spends with him is limited to amusements rather than work, small wonder the child assumes nobody really likes work. His choices in how to spend his time, like his preferences in food, are taught at home--by observation of parental attitudes.
Is the situation irremediable? I don't think so. Surely we could eliminate some of the frustration and discontent of "civilized" family life if we took our cues from the "uncivilized" people who work almost all the time (and enjoy it) and play very little of the time (without making a complicated chore out of it). Happiness, after all, is a choice. Let your child see that you put heart and soul into the work God has given you to do. Do it for Him--that changes the whole climate of the home. Draw the child into acceptance of responsibility by starting very early. Expect the best. If you expect them to oppose you, to "goof off," to be terrible at two, rude at ten, intractable as teenagers, they won't disappoint you.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Thought for the day...
A rumor will travel half way around the world before the truth can even put on its shoes.
~unknown
~unknown
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Does everything have to become a competition?
I saw this online today. I always liked 'rock, paper, scissors'. Why does everything have to become a competition and raised to a professional level?
Hundreds to compete for rock, paper, scissors title
By Martin RobertsFri Nov 10, 8:46 AM ET
Think rock, paper, scissors is a children's game? Think again.
Top players from around the globe will gather in Toronto this weekend to compete for a C$10,000 ($8,840) prize and the title of world champion.
More than 500 contestants, including national champions from Australia, Norway and New Zealand, are expected to attend.
Tournament organizer Graham Walker said players will have to steel themselves against psychological pressure as players typically form teams to rally each other.
"The team will surround the arena, provide moral support and usually try to intimidate the opponent," said Walker, who is also co-author of "The Official Rock Paper Scissors Guide."
The simple game is often used to make decisions and resolve basic conflicts.
Author Ian Fleming had his fictional secret agent James Bond play the game in Japan, in "You Only Live Twice."
Players smack their fists into their palms and count to three before making one of three hand signals: a fist (rock), flat hand (paper) or two fingers (scissors). Paper covers rock, scissors cut paper and rock breaks scissors.
Enthusiasts disagree about the history of the game, but it is believed to have been played for centuries in Japan.
The Paper Scissors Stone Club was founded in England in 1842 and provided an environment free from the long arm of the law where enthusiasts could come together and play for honor, according to the World RPS (Rock Paper Scissors) Society Web page (www.worldrps.com).
In 1918, the name was changed to World RPS Club to reflect the growing international representation and its headquarters moved from London to Toronto. In 1925 its membership topped 10,000.
The world championships have been held since 2002.
Hundreds to compete for rock, paper, scissors title
By Martin RobertsFri Nov 10, 8:46 AM ET
Think rock, paper, scissors is a children's game? Think again.
Top players from around the globe will gather in Toronto this weekend to compete for a C$10,000 ($8,840) prize and the title of world champion.
More than 500 contestants, including national champions from Australia, Norway and New Zealand, are expected to attend.
Tournament organizer Graham Walker said players will have to steel themselves against psychological pressure as players typically form teams to rally each other.
"The team will surround the arena, provide moral support and usually try to intimidate the opponent," said Walker, who is also co-author of "The Official Rock Paper Scissors Guide."
The simple game is often used to make decisions and resolve basic conflicts.
Author Ian Fleming had his fictional secret agent James Bond play the game in Japan, in "You Only Live Twice."
Players smack their fists into their palms and count to three before making one of three hand signals: a fist (rock), flat hand (paper) or two fingers (scissors). Paper covers rock, scissors cut paper and rock breaks scissors.
Enthusiasts disagree about the history of the game, but it is believed to have been played for centuries in Japan.
The Paper Scissors Stone Club was founded in England in 1842 and provided an environment free from the long arm of the law where enthusiasts could come together and play for honor, according to the World RPS (Rock Paper Scissors) Society Web page (www.worldrps.com).
In 1918, the name was changed to World RPS Club to reflect the growing international representation and its headquarters moved from London to Toronto. In 1925 its membership topped 10,000.
The world championships have been held since 2002.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Frustrated...
I am so frustrated. I don't know what to do...
I feel like I am doing more and more work but am accomplishing less and less. The school keeps adding work and expectations and it feels so huge. It is a burden so heavy.
Lord, help me...please.
I feel like I am doing more and more work but am accomplishing less and less. The school keeps adding work and expectations and it feels so huge. It is a burden so heavy.
Lord, help me...please.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
November 2, 2006
I don't think I will forget that day any time soon.
I went to work with my head filled with all of the usual stress, ran long in rehearsal and missed my nail apt. (I still think Heidi left early, though). I went home early. Tom wasn't there and I didn't know where he was. It frustrated me some that he didn't leave a note (he ran an errand because he thought I was going to be late due to my nail apt). I fed Maggie and let her run around for a few minutes while I checked my e-mail. My intention was to let Anne out once Maggie had a few minutes. Tom got home in the interim. He was surprised to see me. He asked if I had fed Anne and I told him not yet but I was about to. He sat down next to me and said we needed to talk. He had been off all week and had been spending some extra time with little Anne. He told me she hadn't had that good of a week. She seemed to be slowing down. At that moment things ran slow. MY KITTY! She had been with me for 16 years. I adopted her when she was barely 2 months old and didn't weigh 2 pounds. She had been there through so much. She was there when the world fell apart. She was the source of so many stories and ideas. I still wanted to take more photos of her....to sit on the couch and cuddle her up while she purred.
He told me of how she seemed to be developing new problems. She had just stopped grooming...so strange for her, she was always such a princess. We went to her room and opened the door, she slowly made her way out. Maggie tried to greet her friend and we stopped her...she didn't understand, this was what she had always done. Anne tried to get back to her room for dinner...she could barely walk, her back legs kept giving out from under her. It broke my heart. I started to cry. Tom and I talked. We were going to wait until Friday, I was going to take the day off and we would take her. We talked a little more and I cried more...my heart was breaking. Then I knew I needed to call the vet. They were there and said to bring her in right away. I changed quickly and grabbed her blankets. Anne was silent, so unlike her-she always 'talked' during car rides...she did not like riding in a car at all. When we got to the vet, we were the only patients there (thank you Lord). When we walked in I started to cry. They were so kind. We went into an exam room (second one on the right) and talked to the assistant. We told him everything we could about her. I opened her kennel and she didn't even fuss, and I knew she was so sick. She didn't complain when I got her out and she just lay in her blanket on the exam table. She looked so sad...her fur was messy, eyes a little runny, ears needed cleaning, nails needed a trip, not saying anything. At the moment I thought of how I had planned to give her a bath and groom this weekend and the tears started again. The vet came in and checked her out. With him was the tech that had wrangled Anne during her check-up in July...the tech remembered my little fighter. Both of them were so kind and gentle. He told us it was her kidneys and that extreme measures would only buy us a little time. I knew I had to let her go...that if I truly loved her I would let her go. The Dr. and the tech left us with her to say good-bye and make final choices. I stroked her little face and paws. Tom and I talked to her. And I started to try to think of a house without her. The vet came back in and we talked a little more. He told us of the process, we talked about staying with her until 'the end'...we all agreed that it was probably best if we didn't...if we would have the last memory being while she was alive. (plus I don't think I could have handled to see them put a needle into her heart...she was so small that was the best way to administer the dose). I wrapped her in her baby blanket, kissed her one more time, took her tags off of her and let them take her. We hugged and I cried more (how many tears can there be???) and then we left...I cried or sat in silence all the way home. At home, Maggie knew there was something wrong. Where was her friend? I sat on the couch and tried to think. Tom gave me a small container of ice cream and I at the whole thing. Eventually, we went to bed.
My little girl is gone and it hurts. Someone once asked a minister if there were going to be animals in heaven. They responded that if animals would make heaven even better then they would be there (a paraphrase). Maybe one day I'll get to heaven and among those there to meet me will be a sweet little, grey and black tabby cat with big eyes who blessed my life for 16 years and left much sooner than I would like. Maybe right now there are angels rubbing her tummy and showing her the best spots for her to hide but still be able to watch everything. Maybe Tom's mom is in heaven and she will take care of her. All I know is that I'm not ready to have another cat...maybe not for a very long time.
Sept 11, 1990-Nov 2, 2006~Anne Shirley Tweeddale Tate...my cat, my little girl, my angel
I went to work with my head filled with all of the usual stress, ran long in rehearsal and missed my nail apt. (I still think Heidi left early, though). I went home early. Tom wasn't there and I didn't know where he was. It frustrated me some that he didn't leave a note (he ran an errand because he thought I was going to be late due to my nail apt). I fed Maggie and let her run around for a few minutes while I checked my e-mail. My intention was to let Anne out once Maggie had a few minutes. Tom got home in the interim. He was surprised to see me. He asked if I had fed Anne and I told him not yet but I was about to. He sat down next to me and said we needed to talk. He had been off all week and had been spending some extra time with little Anne. He told me she hadn't had that good of a week. She seemed to be slowing down. At that moment things ran slow. MY KITTY! She had been with me for 16 years. I adopted her when she was barely 2 months old and didn't weigh 2 pounds. She had been there through so much. She was there when the world fell apart. She was the source of so many stories and ideas. I still wanted to take more photos of her....to sit on the couch and cuddle her up while she purred.
He told me of how she seemed to be developing new problems. She had just stopped grooming...so strange for her, she was always such a princess. We went to her room and opened the door, she slowly made her way out. Maggie tried to greet her friend and we stopped her...she didn't understand, this was what she had always done. Anne tried to get back to her room for dinner...she could barely walk, her back legs kept giving out from under her. It broke my heart. I started to cry. Tom and I talked. We were going to wait until Friday, I was going to take the day off and we would take her. We talked a little more and I cried more...my heart was breaking. Then I knew I needed to call the vet. They were there and said to bring her in right away. I changed quickly and grabbed her blankets. Anne was silent, so unlike her-she always 'talked' during car rides...she did not like riding in a car at all. When we got to the vet, we were the only patients there (thank you Lord). When we walked in I started to cry. They were so kind. We went into an exam room (second one on the right) and talked to the assistant. We told him everything we could about her. I opened her kennel and she didn't even fuss, and I knew she was so sick. She didn't complain when I got her out and she just lay in her blanket on the exam table. She looked so sad...her fur was messy, eyes a little runny, ears needed cleaning, nails needed a trip, not saying anything. At the moment I thought of how I had planned to give her a bath and groom this weekend and the tears started again. The vet came in and checked her out. With him was the tech that had wrangled Anne during her check-up in July...the tech remembered my little fighter. Both of them were so kind and gentle. He told us it was her kidneys and that extreme measures would only buy us a little time. I knew I had to let her go...that if I truly loved her I would let her go. The Dr. and the tech left us with her to say good-bye and make final choices. I stroked her little face and paws. Tom and I talked to her. And I started to try to think of a house without her. The vet came back in and we talked a little more. He told us of the process, we talked about staying with her until 'the end'...we all agreed that it was probably best if we didn't...if we would have the last memory being while she was alive. (plus I don't think I could have handled to see them put a needle into her heart...she was so small that was the best way to administer the dose). I wrapped her in her baby blanket, kissed her one more time, took her tags off of her and let them take her. We hugged and I cried more (how many tears can there be???) and then we left...I cried or sat in silence all the way home. At home, Maggie knew there was something wrong. Where was her friend? I sat on the couch and tried to think. Tom gave me a small container of ice cream and I at the whole thing. Eventually, we went to bed.
My little girl is gone and it hurts. Someone once asked a minister if there were going to be animals in heaven. They responded that if animals would make heaven even better then they would be there (a paraphrase). Maybe one day I'll get to heaven and among those there to meet me will be a sweet little, grey and black tabby cat with big eyes who blessed my life for 16 years and left much sooner than I would like. Maybe right now there are angels rubbing her tummy and showing her the best spots for her to hide but still be able to watch everything. Maybe Tom's mom is in heaven and she will take care of her. All I know is that I'm not ready to have another cat...maybe not for a very long time.
Sept 11, 1990-Nov 2, 2006~Anne Shirley Tweeddale Tate...my cat, my little girl, my angel
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Seeking God's peace in all circumstances
May my attitude be like that of the seventeen-year-old Lady Jane Grey, who prayed this prayer in her prison cell before she was beheaded in 1554:
O merciful God, be Thou unto me
A strong Tower of defence,
I humbly entreat Thee.
Give me grace to await Thy leisure,
And patiently to bear
What Thou doest unto me;
Nothing doubting or mistrusting
Thy goodness towards me;
For Thou knowest what is good for me
Better than I do.
Therefore do with me in all things
What Thou wilt;
Only arm me, I beseech Thee,
With Thine armor,
That I may stand fast;
Above all things taking to me
The shield of faith;
Praying always that I may
Refer myself wholly to Thy will,
Abiding Thy pleasure, and comforting myself
In those troubles which it shall please Thee
To send me, seeing such troubles are
Profitable for me; and I am
Assuredly persuaded that all Thou doest
Cannot but be well; and unto Thee
Be all honor and glory. Amen.
O merciful God, be Thou unto me
A strong Tower of defence,
I humbly entreat Thee.
Give me grace to await Thy leisure,
And patiently to bear
What Thou doest unto me;
Nothing doubting or mistrusting
Thy goodness towards me;
For Thou knowest what is good for me
Better than I do.
Therefore do with me in all things
What Thou wilt;
Only arm me, I beseech Thee,
With Thine armor,
That I may stand fast;
Above all things taking to me
The shield of faith;
Praying always that I may
Refer myself wholly to Thy will,
Abiding Thy pleasure, and comforting myself
In those troubles which it shall please Thee
To send me, seeing such troubles are
Profitable for me; and I am
Assuredly persuaded that all Thou doest
Cannot but be well; and unto Thee
Be all honor and glory. Amen.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
This made me laugh today...
How many forum members does it take to change a lightbulb?
1 to change the light bulb and to post that the light bulb has been changed
14 to share similar experiences of changing light bulbs and how the light bulb could have been changed differently
7 to caution about the dangers of changing light bulbs
1 to move it to the Lighting section
2 to argue then move it to the Electricals section
7 to point out spelling/grammar errors in posts about changing light bulbs
5 to flame the spell checkers
3 to correct spelling/grammar flames
6 to argue over whether it's "lightbulb" or "light bulb" ... another 6 to condemn those 6 as stupid
2 industry professionals to inform the group that the proper term is "lamp"
15 know-it-alls who claim they were in the industry, and that "light bulb" is perfectly correct
19 to post that this forum is not about light bulbs and to please take this discussion to a lightbulb forum
11 to defend the posting to this forum saying that we all use light bulbs and therefore the posts are relevant to this forum
36 to debate which method of changing light bulbs is superior, where to buy the best light bulbs, what brand of light bulbs work best for this technique and what brands are faulty
7 to post URL's where one can see examples of different light bulbs
4 to post that the URL's were posted incorrectly and then post the corrected URL's
3 to post about links they found from the URL's that are relevant to this group which makes light bulbs relevant to this group
13 to link all posts to date, quote them in their entirety including all headers and signatures, and add "Me too"
5 to post to the group that they will no longer post because they cannot handle the light bulb controversy
4 to say "didn't we go through this already a short time ago?"
13 to say "do a Google search on light bulbs before posting questions about light bulbs"
1 forum lurker to respond to the original post 6 months from now and start it all over again
1 to change the light bulb and to post that the light bulb has been changed
14 to share similar experiences of changing light bulbs and how the light bulb could have been changed differently
7 to caution about the dangers of changing light bulbs
1 to move it to the Lighting section
2 to argue then move it to the Electricals section
7 to point out spelling/grammar errors in posts about changing light bulbs
5 to flame the spell checkers
3 to correct spelling/grammar flames
6 to argue over whether it's "lightbulb" or "light bulb" ... another 6 to condemn those 6 as stupid
2 industry professionals to inform the group that the proper term is "lamp"
15 know-it-alls who claim they were in the industry, and that "light bulb" is perfectly correct
19 to post that this forum is not about light bulbs and to please take this discussion to a lightbulb forum
11 to defend the posting to this forum saying that we all use light bulbs and therefore the posts are relevant to this forum
36 to debate which method of changing light bulbs is superior, where to buy the best light bulbs, what brand of light bulbs work best for this technique and what brands are faulty
7 to post URL's where one can see examples of different light bulbs
4 to post that the URL's were posted incorrectly and then post the corrected URL's
3 to post about links they found from the URL's that are relevant to this group which makes light bulbs relevant to this group
13 to link all posts to date, quote them in their entirety including all headers and signatures, and add "Me too"
5 to post to the group that they will no longer post because they cannot handle the light bulb controversy
4 to say "didn't we go through this already a short time ago?"
13 to say "do a Google search on light bulbs before posting questions about light bulbs"
1 forum lurker to respond to the original post 6 months from now and start it all over again
Thursday, September 28, 2006
If you watch this...prepare to smile :-)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr3x_RRJdd4
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
An earnest prayer for today...
"O God, the protector of all who trust in you, without whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy: Increase and multiply upon us your mercy, that, with you as our ruler and guide, we may so pass through things temporal, that we lose not the things eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen."
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Tired and worn out...
I am tired, I have a headache and it is mid quarter in Citrus County. We are half way thought this quarter...1/8 of the way though this school year. I am finding it difficult to not be discouraged by things this year. It seems the load of expectations keeps getting greater and greater. I don't understand work for the sake of work. It seems some of the admin. want us to do things because it will make them look good not because it will help us as teachers or help the sudents or any combination of the two. The FCAT score has become the goal...the prize. One administrator in particular seems to be trying to make sure others take the blame for things they set into motion. The 9th grade academy seems to be a dismal failure at my school, other places make it work. Ours caters to the students and isn't helping them adjust to high school. Next year, as 10th graders, they will expect the same treatment...and so on and so on. Are we helping them or hurting them.
I want to be where God wants me to be. I know He never promised us an easy life and that challenges are a natural part of the walk BUT I feel so overwhelmed right now. This English class is a daily struggle. I try to find the joy and there are kids in the class I think I could like but 37 kids is just too many. So many are Failing the class because they just aren't doing the work!
I feel so overwhelmed by the whole thing. Why??? Why this? Why now??
I want to be where God wants me to be. I know He never promised us an easy life and that challenges are a natural part of the walk BUT I feel so overwhelmed right now. This English class is a daily struggle. I try to find the joy and there are kids in the class I think I could like but 37 kids is just too many. So many are Failing the class because they just aren't doing the work!
I feel so overwhelmed by the whole thing. Why??? Why this? Why now??
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
A little life perspective
Every year, Beloit College releases its Mindset List to give a snapshot of the world view of the incoming freshmen class. The list for the Class of 2010:
1. The Soviet Union has never existed and therefore is about as scary as the student union.
2. They have known only two presidents.
3. For most of their lives, major U.S. airlines have been bankrupt.
4. Manuel Noriega has always been in jail in the U.S.
5. They have grown up getting lost in giant retail stores known as "big boxes."
6. There has always been one Germany.
7. They have never heard anyone actually "ring it up" on a cash register.
8. They are wireless, yet always connected.
9. A stained blue dress is as famous to their generation as a third-rate burglary was to their parents'.
10. Thanks to pervasive head phones in the back seat, parents have always been able to speak freely in the front.
11. A coffee has always taken longer to make than a milkshake.
12. Smoking has never been permitted on U.S. airlines.
13. Faux fur has always been a necessary element of style.
14. The Moral Majority has never needed an organization.
15. They have never had to distinguish between the St. Louis Cardinals baseball and football teams.
16. DNA fingerprinting has always been admissible evidence in court.
17. They grew up pushing their own miniature shopping carts in the supermarket.
18. They grew up with and have outgrown faxing as a means of communication.
19. "Google" has always been a verb.
20. Text messaging is their e-mail.
21. Milli Vanilli has never had anything to say.
22. Mr. Rogers, not Walter Cronkite, has always been the most trusted man in America.
23. Bar codes have always been on everything, from library cards and snail mail to retail items.
24. Madden has always been a game, not a Super Bowl-winning coach.
25. Phantom of the Opera has always been on Broadway.
26. "Boogers" candy has always been a favorite for grossing out parents.
27. There has never been a "sky hook" in the NBA.
28. Carbon copies are oddities found in their grandparents' attics.
29. Computerized player pianos have always been tinkling in the lobby.
30. Non-denominational mega-churches have always been the fastest growing religious organizations in the U.S.
31. They grew up in minivans.
32. Reality shows have always been on television.
33. They have no idea why we needed to ask "... Can we all get along?"
34. They have always known that "In the criminal justice system the people have been represented by two separate yet equally important groups."
35. Young women's fashions have never been concerned with where the waist is.
36. They have rarely mailed anything using a stamp.
37. Brides have always worn white for a first, second, or third wedding.
38. Being techno-savvy has always been inversely proportional to age.
39. "So" as in "Sooooo New York," has always been a drawn-out adjective modifying a proper noun, which in turn modifies something else.
40. Affluent troubled teens in Southern California have always been the subjects of television series.
41. They have always been able to watch wars and revolutions live on television.
42. Ken Burns has always been producing very long documentaries on PBS.
43. They are not aware that "flock of seagulls hair" has nothing to do with birds flying into it.
44. Retin-A has always made America look less wrinkled.
45. Green tea has always been marketed for health purposes.
46. Public school officials have always had the right to censor school newspapers.
47. Small, white holiday lights have always been in style.
48. Most of them have never had the chance to eat bad airline food.
49. They have always been searching for "Waldo."
50. The really rich have regularly expressed exuberance with outlandish birthday parties.
51. Michael Moore has always been showing up uninvited.
52. They never played the game of state license plates in the car.
53. They have always preferred going out in groups as opposed to dating.
54. There have always been live organ donors.
55. They have always had access to their own credit cards.
56. They have never put their money in a "Savings & Loan."
57. Sara Lee has always made underwear.
58. Bad behavior has always been getting captured on amateur videos.
59. Disneyland has always been in Europe and Asia.
60. They never saw Bernard Shaw on CNN.
61. Beach volleyball has always been a recognized sport.
62. Acura, Lexus and Infiniti have always been luxury cars of choice.
63. Television stations have never concluded the broadcast day with the national anthem.
64. LoJack transmitters have always been finding lost cars.
65. Diane Sawyer has always been live in Prime Time.
66. Dolphin-free canned tuna has always been on sale.
67. Disposable contact lenses have always been available.
68. "Outing" has always been a threat.
69. "Oh, The Places You'll Go" by Dr. Seuss has always been the perfect graduation gift.
70. They have always "dissed" what they don't like.
71. The U.S. has always been studying global warming to confirm its existence.
72. Richard M. Daley has always been the Mayor of Chicago.
73. They grew up with virtual pets to feed, water, and play games with, lest they die.
74. Ringo Starr has always been clean and sober.
75. Professional athletes have always competed in the Olympics.
1. The Soviet Union has never existed and therefore is about as scary as the student union.
2. They have known only two presidents.
3. For most of their lives, major U.S. airlines have been bankrupt.
4. Manuel Noriega has always been in jail in the U.S.
5. They have grown up getting lost in giant retail stores known as "big boxes."
6. There has always been one Germany.
7. They have never heard anyone actually "ring it up" on a cash register.
8. They are wireless, yet always connected.
9. A stained blue dress is as famous to their generation as a third-rate burglary was to their parents'.
10. Thanks to pervasive head phones in the back seat, parents have always been able to speak freely in the front.
11. A coffee has always taken longer to make than a milkshake.
12. Smoking has never been permitted on U.S. airlines.
13. Faux fur has always been a necessary element of style.
14. The Moral Majority has never needed an organization.
15. They have never had to distinguish between the St. Louis Cardinals baseball and football teams.
16. DNA fingerprinting has always been admissible evidence in court.
17. They grew up pushing their own miniature shopping carts in the supermarket.
18. They grew up with and have outgrown faxing as a means of communication.
19. "Google" has always been a verb.
20. Text messaging is their e-mail.
21. Milli Vanilli has never had anything to say.
22. Mr. Rogers, not Walter Cronkite, has always been the most trusted man in America.
23. Bar codes have always been on everything, from library cards and snail mail to retail items.
24. Madden has always been a game, not a Super Bowl-winning coach.
25. Phantom of the Opera has always been on Broadway.
26. "Boogers" candy has always been a favorite for grossing out parents.
27. There has never been a "sky hook" in the NBA.
28. Carbon copies are oddities found in their grandparents' attics.
29. Computerized player pianos have always been tinkling in the lobby.
30. Non-denominational mega-churches have always been the fastest growing religious organizations in the U.S.
31. They grew up in minivans.
32. Reality shows have always been on television.
33. They have no idea why we needed to ask "... Can we all get along?"
34. They have always known that "In the criminal justice system the people have been represented by two separate yet equally important groups."
35. Young women's fashions have never been concerned with where the waist is.
36. They have rarely mailed anything using a stamp.
37. Brides have always worn white for a first, second, or third wedding.
38. Being techno-savvy has always been inversely proportional to age.
39. "So" as in "Sooooo New York," has always been a drawn-out adjective modifying a proper noun, which in turn modifies something else.
40. Affluent troubled teens in Southern California have always been the subjects of television series.
41. They have always been able to watch wars and revolutions live on television.
42. Ken Burns has always been producing very long documentaries on PBS.
43. They are not aware that "flock of seagulls hair" has nothing to do with birds flying into it.
44. Retin-A has always made America look less wrinkled.
45. Green tea has always been marketed for health purposes.
46. Public school officials have always had the right to censor school newspapers.
47. Small, white holiday lights have always been in style.
48. Most of them have never had the chance to eat bad airline food.
49. They have always been searching for "Waldo."
50. The really rich have regularly expressed exuberance with outlandish birthday parties.
51. Michael Moore has always been showing up uninvited.
52. They never played the game of state license plates in the car.
53. They have always preferred going out in groups as opposed to dating.
54. There have always been live organ donors.
55. They have always had access to their own credit cards.
56. They have never put their money in a "Savings & Loan."
57. Sara Lee has always made underwear.
58. Bad behavior has always been getting captured on amateur videos.
59. Disneyland has always been in Europe and Asia.
60. They never saw Bernard Shaw on CNN.
61. Beach volleyball has always been a recognized sport.
62. Acura, Lexus and Infiniti have always been luxury cars of choice.
63. Television stations have never concluded the broadcast day with the national anthem.
64. LoJack transmitters have always been finding lost cars.
65. Diane Sawyer has always been live in Prime Time.
66. Dolphin-free canned tuna has always been on sale.
67. Disposable contact lenses have always been available.
68. "Outing" has always been a threat.
69. "Oh, The Places You'll Go" by Dr. Seuss has always been the perfect graduation gift.
70. They have always "dissed" what they don't like.
71. The U.S. has always been studying global warming to confirm its existence.
72. Richard M. Daley has always been the Mayor of Chicago.
73. They grew up with virtual pets to feed, water, and play games with, lest they die.
74. Ringo Starr has always been clean and sober.
75. Professional athletes have always competed in the Olympics.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Useful Math Conversions...
1. Ratio of an igloo's circumference to its diameter = Eskimo Pi
2. 2000 pounds of Chinese soup = Won ton
3. 1 millionth of a mouthwash = 1 microscope
4. Time between slipping on a peel and smacking the pavement = 1 bananosecond
5. Weight an evangelist carries with God = 1 billigram
6. Time it takes to sail 220 yards at 1 nautical mile per hour = Knotfurlong
7. 16.5 feet in the Twilight Zone = 1 Rod Sterling
8. Half of a large intestine = 1 semicolon
9. 1,000,000 aches = 1 megahurtz
10. Basic unit of laryngitis = 1 hoarsepower
11. Shortest distance between two jokes = A straight line
12. 453.6 graham crackers = 1 pound cake
13. 1 million-million microphones = 1 megaphone
14. 2 million bicycles = 2 megacycles
15. 365.25 days = 1 unicycle
16. 2000 mockingbirds = 2 kilomockingbirds
17. 52 cards = 1 decacards
18. 1 kilogram of falling figs = 1 FigNewton
19. 1000 milliliters of wet socks = 1 literhosen
20. 1 millionth of a fish = 1 microfiche
21. 1 trillion pins = 1 terrapin
22. 10 rations = 1 decoration
23. 100 rations = 1 C-ration
24. 2 monograms = 1 diagram
25. 4 nickels = 2 paradigms
26. 2.4 statute miles of intravenous surgical tubing at Yale University Hospital = 1 IV League
2. 2000 pounds of Chinese soup = Won ton
3. 1 millionth of a mouthwash = 1 microscope
4. Time between slipping on a peel and smacking the pavement = 1 bananosecond
5. Weight an evangelist carries with God = 1 billigram
6. Time it takes to sail 220 yards at 1 nautical mile per hour = Knotfurlong
7. 16.5 feet in the Twilight Zone = 1 Rod Sterling
8. Half of a large intestine = 1 semicolon
9. 1,000,000 aches = 1 megahurtz
10. Basic unit of laryngitis = 1 hoarsepower
11. Shortest distance between two jokes = A straight line
12. 453.6 graham crackers = 1 pound cake
13. 1 million-million microphones = 1 megaphone
14. 2 million bicycles = 2 megacycles
15. 365.25 days = 1 unicycle
16. 2000 mockingbirds = 2 kilomockingbirds
17. 52 cards = 1 decacards
18. 1 kilogram of falling figs = 1 FigNewton
19. 1000 milliliters of wet socks = 1 literhosen
20. 1 millionth of a fish = 1 microfiche
21. 1 trillion pins = 1 terrapin
22. 10 rations = 1 decoration
23. 100 rations = 1 C-ration
24. 2 monograms = 1 diagram
25. 4 nickels = 2 paradigms
26. 2.4 statute miles of intravenous surgical tubing at Yale University Hospital = 1 IV League
Sunday, July 30, 2006
My "lament"
OK...so sometimes life isn't "fair".
I have been a fan of Rick Springfield since the 7th grade (no comment on how long ago that was). One of my best friends, Dwayne, got tickets for him and his wife to go see Rick Springfield in Atlanta this past weekend after we had finished classes in Tallahassee. On Friday Jenny and her sister went to Atlanta where they got to go to the sound check for the concert and meet Rick Springfield! On Saturday, Dwayne and his brother-in-law (Kevin) drove to meet their girls and go to the concert. They had backstage passes and everything! I just got the attached picture from Dwayne, Jenny sure looks happy!!! Dwayne said the concert was great. It started raining so a number of people left and the remaining crowd just had a blast. Rick moved out in the audience and got everyone involved.
ALSO...my brother and his wife are living in Edinburgh, Scotland right now. Every August they have a huge arts festival (the Shakespeare festival is just a small part of all of the festivities). So, I recently found out that Howard Jones (one of my all time favorite singers) is going to be a part of the festival in Edinburgh this year. My brother will be in the same city as Howard Jones!!
I, on the other hand, am stuck in this dinky town in north-central Florida. The best part of the last 3 days is that my 2nd summer of grad school is done and I've been able to get some sleep (since I was greatly deprived of that over the last 5 weeks). The worst part is that teachers start tomorrow and I really am not looking forward to being at CRHS this year. For whatever the reason God wants me there for at least another year. I just pray the year goes quietly and without any event.
I am glad my friends/family at getting these experiences, though...plus, my time will come;-)
Jenny and Rick Springfield
I have been a fan of Rick Springfield since the 7th grade (no comment on how long ago that was). One of my best friends, Dwayne, got tickets for him and his wife to go see Rick Springfield in Atlanta this past weekend after we had finished classes in Tallahassee. On Friday Jenny and her sister went to Atlanta where they got to go to the sound check for the concert and meet Rick Springfield! On Saturday, Dwayne and his brother-in-law (Kevin) drove to meet their girls and go to the concert. They had backstage passes and everything! I just got the attached picture from Dwayne, Jenny sure looks happy!!! Dwayne said the concert was great. It started raining so a number of people left and the remaining crowd just had a blast. Rick moved out in the audience and got everyone involved.
ALSO...my brother and his wife are living in Edinburgh, Scotland right now. Every August they have a huge arts festival (the Shakespeare festival is just a small part of all of the festivities). So, I recently found out that Howard Jones (one of my all time favorite singers) is going to be a part of the festival in Edinburgh this year. My brother will be in the same city as Howard Jones!!
I, on the other hand, am stuck in this dinky town in north-central Florida. The best part of the last 3 days is that my 2nd summer of grad school is done and I've been able to get some sleep (since I was greatly deprived of that over the last 5 weeks). The worst part is that teachers start tomorrow and I really am not looking forward to being at CRHS this year. For whatever the reason God wants me there for at least another year. I just pray the year goes quietly and without any event.
I am glad my friends/family at getting these experiences, though...plus, my time will come;-)
Jenny and Rick Springfield
An honest prayer...
Lord, deliver me from the urge to open my mouth when I should shut it. Give me the wisdom to keep silence where silence is wise. Remind me that not everything needs to be said, and that there are very few things that need to be said by me.
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