START OVER.......

START OVER

When you've trusted God and walked his way
When you've felt his hand lead you day by day
But your steps now take you another way ...
Start over.

When you've made your plans and they've gone awry
When you've tried your best and there's no more try
When you've failed yourself and you don't know why ...
Start over.

When you've told your friends what you plan to do
When you've trusted them and they didn't come through
And you're all alone and it's up to you ...
Start over.

When you've failed your kids and they're grown and gone
When you've done your best but it's turned out wrong
And now your grandchildren come along ...
Start over.

When you've prayed to God so you'll know his will
When you've prayed and prayed and you don't know still ...
When you want to stop cause you've had your fill ...
Start over.

When you think you're finished and want to quit
When you've bottomed out in life's deepest pit
When you've tried and tried to get out of it ...
Start over.

When the year has been long and successes few
When December comes and you're feeling blue
God gives a January just for you ...
Start over.

Starting over means "Victories Won"
Starting over means "A Race Well Run"
Starting over means "God's Will Done"
Don't just sit there ..............

START OVER

by Woodrow Kroll of "Back to the Bible"

the Christmas Ten Commandments....

THE CHRISTMAS TEN COMMANDMENTS


1. Thou shalt give thy heart to Christ. Let Him be at the top of thy
Christmas list


2. Thou shalt prepare thy soul for Christmas. Spend not so much on gifts
that thy soul is forgotten.


3. Thou shalt not let Santa Claus replace Christ, thus robbing the day of
its spiritual reality.


4. Thou shalt not burden the shop girl, the mailman, and the merchant with
complaints and demands.


5. Thou shalt give thyself with thy gift. This will increase its value a
hundred fold, and he who receiveth it shall treasure it forever.


6. Thou shalt not value gifts received by their cost. Even the least
expensive may signify love, and that is more priceless than silver and gold.


7. Thou shalt not neglect the needy. Share thy blessings with many who will
go hungry and cold unless thou are generous.


8. Thou shalt not neglect thy church. Its services highlight the true
meaning of the season.


9. Thou shalt be as a little child. Not until thou has become in spirit as a
little one art thou ready to enter into the kingdom of Heaven.


10. Thou shall not forget to share your joy, peace and faith with those
around you.


-- Author Unknown

 

ten rules for a blessed day...

10 RULES FOR A BLESSED DAY

1. TODAY I WILL NOT STRIKE BACK . . .

If someone is rude, if someone is impatient, if someone is unkind, I will
not respond in a like manner.

2. TODAY I WILL ASK GOD TO BLESS MY 'ENEMY'

If I come across someone who treats me harshly or unfairly, I will quietly
ask God to bless that individual. I understand "enemy" could be a family
member, neighbor, co-worker or stranger.

3. TODAY I WILL BE CAREFUL ABOUT WHAT I SAY . . .

I will carefully choose and guard my words being certain that I do not
spread gossip.

4. TODAY I WILL GO THE EXTRA MILE . . .

I will find ways to help share the burden of another person.

5. TODAY I WILL FORGIVE . . .

I will forgive any hurts or injuries that come my way.

6. TODAY I WILL DO SOMETHING KIND FOR SOMEONE, (BUT I WILL DO IT IN SECRET .
. . )

I will reach out anonymously and bless the life of another.

7. TODAY I WILL TREAT OTHERS THE WAY I WISH TO BE TREATED . . .

I will practice the golden rule. "Do Unto others as I would have them do
unto me"- with EVERYONE I encounter.

8. TODAY I WILL RAISE THE SPIRITS OF SOMEONE WHO IS DISCOURAGED . . .

My smile, my words, my expression of support, can make the difference to
someone who is wrestling with life.

9. TODAY I WILL NURTURE MY BODY . . .

I will eat less . . . I will eat only healthy foods. I will thank God for my
body.

10. TODAY I WILL GROW SPIRITUALLY . . .

I will spend a little more time in prayer today. I will begin reading
something spiritual or inspirational; I will find a quiet place (at some
point during this day) and listen to God's voice.

Luke 10:27

He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your
soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, 'Love your
neighbor as yourself.'"

Luke 10:27

We learn three principles about loving our neighbor: (1) lack of love is
often easy to justify, even though it is never right; (2) our neighbor is
anyone of any race, creed, or social background who is in need; and (3) love
means acting to meet the person's needs. Wherever you live, there are needy
people close by. There is no good reason for refusing to help.

Remember, today is a gift from God so treat it preciously

-- Author Unknown

short story---what T.J.Drew

WHAT T.J. DREW

A weary mother returned from the store,

Lugging groceries through the kitchen door.

Awaiting her arrival was her 8 year old son,

Anxious to relate what his younger brother had done.

"While I was out playing and Dad was on a call,

T.J. took his crayons and wrote on the wall!

It's on the new paper you just hung in the den.

I told him you'd be mad at having to do it again."

She let out a moan and furrowed her brow,

"Where is your little brother right now?"

She emptied her arms and with a purposeful stride,

She marched to his closet where he had gone to hide.

She called his full name as she entered his room.

He trembled with fear--he knew that meant doom!

For the next ten minutes, she ranted and raved

About the expensive wallpaper and how she had saved.

Lamenting all the work it would take to repair,

She condemned his actions and total lack of care.

The more she scolded, the madder she got,

Then stomped from his room, totally distraught!

She headed for the den to confirm her fears.

When she saw the wall, her eyes flooded with tears.

The message she read pierced her soul with a dart.

It said, "I love Mommy," surrounded by a heart.

Well, the wallpaper remained, just as she found it,

With an empty picture frame hung to surround it.

A reminder to her, and indeed to all,

Take time to read the handwriting on the wall.

-- Author Unknown

short story---unconditional acceptance

UNCONDITIONAL ACCEPTANCE

I am a mother of three (ages 14, 12, 3) and have recently completed my
college degree. The last class I had to take was Sociology. The teacher was
absolutely inspiring with the qualities that I wish every human being had
been graced with. Her last project of the term was called "Smile." The class
was asked to go out and smile at three people and document their reactions.
I am a very friendly person and always smile at everyone and say hello
anyway, so, I thought this would be a piece of cake, literally.

Soon after we were assigned the project, my husband, youngest son, and I
went out to McDonald's one crisp March morning. It was just our way of
sharing special play time with our son. We were standing in line, waiting to
be served, when all of a sudden everyone around us began to back away, and
then even my husband did. I did not move an inch...an overwhelming feeling
of panic welled up inside of me as I turned to see why they had moved.

As I turned around I smelled a horrible "dirty body" smell, and there
standing behind me were two poor homeless men. As I looked down at the short
gentleman, close to me, he was "smiling." His beautiful sky blue eyes were
full of God's Light as he searched for acceptance. He said, "Good day" as he
counted the few coins he had been clutching. The second man fumbled with his
hands as he stood behind his friend. I realized the second man was mentally
deficient and the blue eyed gentleman was his salvation. I held my tears as
I stood there with them.

The young lady at the counter asked him what they wanted. He said, "Coffee
is all Miss" because that was all they could afford. (If they wanted to sit
in the restaurant and warm up, they had to buy something. He just wanted to
be warm). Then I really felt it-the compulsion was so great I almost reached
out and embraced the little man with the blue eyes.

That is when I noticed all eyes in the restaurant were set on me, judging my
every action. I smiled and asked the young lady behind the counter to give
me two more breakfast meals on a separate tray. I then walked around the
corner to the table that the men had chosen as a resting spot. I put the
tray on the table and laid my hand on the blue eyed gentleman's cold hand.
He looked up at me, with tears in his eyes, and said, "Thank you." I leaned
over, began to pat his hand and said, "I did not do this for you. God is
here working through me to give you hope." I started to cry as I walked away
to join my husband and son.

When I sat down my husband smiled at me and said, "That is why God gave you
to me, Honey. To give me hope." We held hands for a moment and at that time
we knew that only because of the Grace that we had been given were we able
to give.

That day showed me the pure Light of God's sweet love. I returned to
college, on the last evening of class, with this story in hand. I turned in
"my project" and the instructor read it. Then she looked up at me and said,
"Can I share this?" I slowly nodded as she got the attention of the class.
She began to read and that is when I knew that we as human beings and being
part of God, share this need to heal people and be healed. In my own way I
had touched the people at McDonald's, my husband, son, instructor, and every
soul that shared the classroom on the last night I spent as a college
student.

I graduated with one of the biggest lessons I would ever learn:
UNCONDITIONAL ACCEPTANCE.

Much love and compassion is to each and every person who may read this and
learn how to LOVE PEOPLE AND USE THINGS - NOT LOVE THINGS AND USE PEOPLE.

-- Author Unknown

short story--tomorrow is not promised

TOMORROW IS NOT PROMISED

Sometimes people come into your life

and you know right away that they were meant to be there,

they serve some sort of purpose,

teach you a lesson

or help figure out who you are

and who you want to become.

You never know who these people may be:

your neighbor, child, long lost friend, lover, or even a complete stranger

who, when you lock eyes with them,

you know at that very moment that they will affect your life

in some profound way.

And sometimes things happen to you

and at the time they seem painful and unfair,

but in reflection you realize

that without overcoming those obstacles

you would have never realized

your potential strength, will power, or heart.

Everything happens for a reason.

Nothing happens by chance

or by means of good or bad luck.

Illness, injury, love, lost moments of true greatness and sheer stupidity

all occur to test the limits of your soul.

Without these small tests,

whether they be events, illnesses or relationships,

life would be like a smoothly paved straight flat road to nowhere,

safe and comfortable,

but dull and utterly pointless.

The people you meet who affect your life

and the successes and downfalls you experience

create who you are,

and even the bad experiences can be learned from,

In fact, they are probably the poignant and important ones.

If someone hurts you, betrays you or breaks your heart,

forgive them,

for they have helped you learn about trust

and the importance of being cautious to

whom you open your heart...

If someone loves you,

love them back unconditionally,

not only because they love you,

but because they are teaching you to love

and opening your heart and eyes to things

you would have never seen or felt without them.

Make every day count.

Appreciate every moment

and take from it everything that you possibly can,

for you may never be able to experience it again...

Talk to people you have never talked to before,

and actually listen,

let yourself fall in love,

break free and set your sights high...

Hold your head up because you have every right too.

Tell yourself you are a great individual and believe in yourself...

for if you don't believe in yourself,

no one else will believe in you either.

Create your own life

and then go out and live in it!

"Live Each Day As If It Were Your Last...

Tomorrow is Not Promised"

-- Author Unknown

short story----The Rose

THE ROSE

Red roses were her favorites,

Her name was also Rose,

And every year her husband sent them,

tied with pretty bows.

The year he died,

the roses were delivered to her door.

The card said, "Be my Valentine,"

like all the years before.

Each year he sent her roses,

and the note would always say,

"I love you even more this year,

than last year on this day.

My love for you will always grow,

with every passing year."

She knew this was the last time

that the roses would appear.

She thought, he ordered roses

in advance before this day.

Her loving husband did not know,

that he would pass away.

He always liked things early,

way before the time.

Then if he got too busy,

everything would work out fine.

She trimmed the stems,

and placed them in a very special vase.

Then, sat the vase

beside the portrait of his smiling face.

She would sit for hours,

in her husband's favorite chair.

While staring at his picture,

and the roses sitting there.

A year went by,

and it was hard to live without her mate.

With loneliness and solitude,

that had become her fate.

Then that very hour,

as on Valentine's before,

The doorbell rang, and there were roses,

sitting by her door.

She brought the roses in,

and just looked at them in shock.

Then, she went to get the telephone,

to call the florist shop.

The owner answered, and she asked him,

if he would explain,

Why would someone do this to her,

causing her such pain?

"I know your husband passed away,

more than a year ago,"

The owner said, "I knew you'd call,

and you would want to know.

The flowers you received today,

were paid for in advance,

your husband always planned ahead,

he left nothing to chance.

There is a standing order,

that I have on file down here,

as he has paid, well in advance,

you'll get them every year.

There is also another thing,

that I think you should know,

He wrote a special little card...he did this years ago,

Then should I find out that he's no longer here,

That's the card...that should be sent to you the following year."

She thanked him and hung up the phone,

her tears now flowing hard.

Her fingers shaking, as she slowly

reached to get the card.

Inside the card, she saw that he

had written her a note.

Then, as she stared in total silence,

this is what he wrote...

"Hello my love, I know

it's been a year since I've been gone,

I hope it hasn't been too hard

for you to overcome.

I know it must be lonely,

and the pain is very real.

Or if it was the other way,

I know how I would feel.

The love we shared made everything

so beautiful in life,

I loved you more than words can say,

you were the perfect wife.

You were my friend and lover,

you fulfilled my every need.

I know it's only been a year,

but please try not to grieve.

I want you to be happy,

even when you shed your tears.

That is why the roses

will be sent to you for years.

When you get these roses,

think of all the happiness,

that we had together,

and how both of us were blessed.

I have always loved you,

and you know I always will.

But my love, you must go on,

you have some living still.

Please... try to find happiness,

while living out your days.

I know it is not easy,

but I hope you find some ways.

The roses will come every year,

and they will only stop,

When your door's not answered,

when the florist stops to knock.

He will come five times that day,

in case you have gone out.

But after his last visit,

he will know without a doubt.

To take the roses to the place,

where I've instructed him.

And place them where we are,

together once again.

Sometimes in life, you find a special friend;

Someone who changes your life just by being part of it.

Someone who makes you laugh until you can't stop;

Someone who makes you believe that there really is good in the world.

Someone who convinces you that there really is an unlocked door just waiting
for you to open it.

This is forever friendship.

-- Author Unknown

the most beautiful flower....

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL FLOWER

The park bench was deserted as I sat down to read

Beneath the long, straggly branches of an old willow tree

Disillusioned by life with good reason to frown

For the world was intent on dragging me down

And if that weren't enough to ruin my day

A young boy out of breath approached me, all tired from play

He stood right before me with his head tilted down

And said with great excitement, "Look what I found"

In his hand was a flower, and what a pitiful sight

With its petals all worn - not enough rain, or too little light

Wanting him to take his dead flower and go off to play

I faked a small smile and then shifted away

But instead of retreating he sat next to my side

And placed the flower to his nose

And declared with overacted surprise

"It sure smells pretty and it's beautiful, too"

"That's why I picked it; here, it's for you"

The weed before me was dying or dead

Not vibrant of colors: orange, yellow or red

But I knew I must take it, or he might never leave

So I reached for the flower, and replied, "Just what I need"

But instead of him placing the flower in my hand

He held it mid-air without reason or plan

It was then that I noticed for the very first time

That weed-toting boy could not see: he was blind

I heard my voice quiver; tears shone in the sun

As I thanked him for picking the very best one

"You're welcome," he smiled, and then ran off to play

Unaware of the impact he'd had on my day.

I sat there and wondered how he managed to see

A self-pitying woman beneath an old willow tree

How did he know of my self-indulged plight

Perhaps from his heart, he'd been blessed with true sight

Through the eyes of a blind child, at last I could see

The problem was not with the world; the problem was me

And for all of those times I myself had been blind

I vowed to see the beauty in life

And appreciate every second that's mine

And then I held that wilted flower up to my nose

And breathed in the fragrance of a beautiful rose

And smiled as I watched that young boy

Another weed in his hand

About to change the life of an unsuspecting old man

-- Author Unknown

Gardening...........

It is the type of garden that we may plant anywhere
or at anytime of year. So I hope you will enjoy this special
garden so much that you will start planting one today!

Plant Three Rows Of Peas - For The Garden Of
Your Daily Living;
1. PEACE Of Mind
2. PEACE Of Heart
3. PEACE Of Soul

Plant Four Rows Of Squash;
1. Squash gossip
2. Squash indifference
3. Squash grumbling
4. Squash selfishness

Plant Four Rows Of Lettuce;
1. Lettuce be faithful
2. Lettuce be kind
3. Lettuce be patient
4. Lettuce really love one another

Now No Garden Should Be Without Turnips;
- So Plant 3 Rows Of Turnips;
1. Turnip for meetings
2. Turnip for service
3. Turnip to help one another

Finally Dear One, Your Garden Must Have Thyme;
1. Thyme for each other
2. Thyme for family
3. Thyme for friends
4. Thyme for prayer

Water Freely With Patience & Cultivate With LOVE.
There should be much fruit in your garden, after all "We Reap
What We Sow." Therefore "Happy Gardening,

ABC News....banker saves ducks

check out this video from abc news about these baby ducks

http://abcnews.go.com/video/playerIndex?id=7619605

Carl's Garden......

CARL'S GARDEN

Carl was a quiet man. He didn't talk much. He would always greet you with a
big smile and a firm handshake. Even after living in our neighborhood for
over 50 years, no one could really say they knew him very well.

Before his retirement, he took the bus to work each morning. The lone sight
of him walking down the street often worried us. He had a slight limp from a
bullet wound received in WW II. Watching him, we worried that although he
had survived WW II, he may not make it through our changing uptown
neighborhood with its ever-increasing random violence, gangs, and drug
activity.

When he saw the flyer at our local church asking for volunteers for caring
for the gardens behind the minister's residence, he responded in his
characteristically unassuming manner. Without fanfare, he just signed up.
He was well into his 87th year when the very thing we had always feared
finally happened.

He was just finishing his watering for the day when three gang members
approached him. Ignoring their attempt to intimidate him, he simply asked,
"Would you like a drink from the hose?"

The tallest and toughest-looking of the three said, "Yeah, sure", with a
malevolent little smile. As Carl offered the hose to him, the other two
grabbed Carl's arm, throwing him down. As the hose snaked crazily over the
ground, dousing everything in its way, Carl's assailants stole his
retirement watch and his wallet, and then fled. Carl tried to get himself
up, but he had been thrown down on his bad leg.

He lay there trying to gather himself as the minister came running to help
him. Although the minister had witnessed the attack from his window, he
couldn't get there fast enough to stop it. "Carl, are you okay? Are you
hurt?" the minister kept asking as he helped Carl to his feet. Carl just
passed a hand over his brow and sighed, shaking his head.

"Just some punk kids. I hope they'll wise-up someday." His wet clothes clung
to his slight frame as he bent to pick up the hose. He adjusted the nozzle
again and started to water.

Confused and a little concerned, the minister asked, "Carl, what are you
doing?"

"I've got to finish my watering. It's been very dry lately", came the calm
reply. Satisfying himself that Carl really was all right, the minister could
only marvel. Carl was a man from a different time and place.

A few weeks later the three returned. Just as before their threat was
unchallenged. Carl again offered them a drink form his hose. This time they
didn't rob him. They wrenched the hose from his hand and drenched him head
to foot in the icy water.

When they had finished their humiliation of him, they sauntered off down the
street, throwing catcalls and curses, falling over one another laughing at
the hilarity of what they had just done. Carl just watched them. Then he
turned toward the warmth giving sun, picked up his hose, and went on with
his watering.

The summer was quickly fading into fall. Carl was doing some tilling when he
was startled by the sudden approach of someone behind him. He stumbled and
fell into some evergreen branches. As he struggled to regain his footing, he
turned to see the tall leader of his summer tormenters reaching down for
him. He braced himself for the expected attack. "Don't worry old man, I'm
not gonna hurt you this time." The young man spoke softly, still offering
the tattooed and scarred hand to Carl.

As he helped Carl get up, the man pulled a crumpled bag from his pocket and
handed it to Carl. "What's this?" Carl asked.

"It's your stuff," the man explained. "It's your stuff back. Even the money
in your wallet."

"I don't understand," Carl said. "Why would you help me now?"

The man shifted his feet, seeming embarrassed and ill at ease. "I learned
something from you", he said. "I ran with that gang and hurt people like
you. We picked you because you were old and we knew we could do it. But
every time we came and did something to you, instead of yelling and fighting
back, you tried to give us a drink. You didn't hate us for hating you. You
kept showing love against our hate." He stopped for a moment. "I couldn't
sleep after we stole your stuff, so here it is back." He paused for another
awkward moment, not knowing what more there was to say. "That bag's my way
of saying thanks for straightening me out, I guess." And with that, he
walked off down the street.

Carl looked down at the sack in his hands and gingerly opened it. He took
out his retirement watch and put it back on his wrist. Opening his wallet,
he checked for his wedding photo. He gazed for a moment at the young bride
that still smiled back at him from all those years ago.

He died one cold day after Christmas that winter. Many people attended his
funeral in spite of the weather. In particular the minister noticed a tall
young man that he didn't know sitting quietly in a distant corner of the
church. The minister spoke of Carl's garden as a lesson in life. In a voice
made thick with unshed tears, he said, "Do your best and make your garden as
beautiful as you can. We will never forget Carl and his garden."

The following spring another flyer went up. It read: "Person needed to care
for Carl's garden." The flyer went unnoticed by the busy parishioners until
one day when a knock was heard at the minister's office door. Opening the
door, the minister saw a pair of scarred and tattooed hands holding the
flyer. "I believe this is my job, if you'll have me," the young man said.

The minister recognized him as the same young man who had returned the
stolen watch and wallet to Carl. He knew that Carl's kindness had turned
this man's life around. As the minister handed him the keys to the garden
shed, he said, "Yes, go take care of Carl's garden and honor him."

The man went to work and, over the next several years, he tended the flowers
and vegetables just as Carl had done. In that time, he went to college, got
married and became a prominent member of the community. But he never forgot
his promise to Carl's memory and kept the garden as beautiful as he thought
Carl would have kept it.

One day he approached the new minister and told him that he couldn't care
for the garden any longer. He explained with a shy and happy smile, "My wife
just had a baby boy last night, and she's bringing him home on Saturday."

"Well, congratulations! " said the minister, as he was handed the garden shed
keys. "That's wonderful! What's the baby's name?"

It was Carl.

-- Author Unknown

Brownie Crumbs........

BROWNIE CRUMBS

Mrs. Baughman was my 6th grade Sunday School teacher. One morning, she
brought a pan of brownies to our class. As the goodies sat over by her
chair, she gave each child a slip of paper marked with a household expense:
house payment, utility bill, phone bill, entertainment, etc.

My slip had a car payment. Before long, Mrs. Baughman picked up the tray of
brownies and began naming the expenses written on the papers. As we gave her
our expenses, she redeemed each one for a brownie.

"Car payment" she announced. I jumped up to get my brownie from the pan.
Finally the last brownie had disappeared.

But one boy named Donald still held his unredeemed slip. "God!" called Mrs.
Baughman. Donald came forward hoping the teacher had one more brownie
hidden some where.

With a knife Mrs. Baughman scraped the crumbs from the bottom of the pan
into Donald's napkin. He got a pretty raw deal, I thought -just crumbs.

"The brownies represent your money", the teacher explained to us. "If you
don't give God his share right away, He probably won't get anything except
maybe the crumbs."

I never forgot that illustration. The day my friend Donald got only the
brownie crumbs, even as a child I learned that God should have the first
right to everything I have.

In the years since Mrs. Baughman class I have struggled with giving and
priorities, But whenever I recall the "Crummy Sunday School Lesson", I know
who should and must always come first in my life!

-- Author Unknown

the HOLY Alphabet..........

The Holy Alphabet

A lthough things are not perfect
B ecause of trial or pain
C ontinue in thanksgiving
D o not begin to blame
E ven when the times are hard
F ierce winds are bound to blow
G od is forever able
H old on to what you know
I magine life without His love
J oy would cease to be
K eep thanking Him for all the things
L ove imparts to thee
M ove out of "Camp Complaining"
N o weapon that is known
O n earth can yield the power
P raise can do alone
Q uit looking at the future
R edeem the time at hand
S tart every day with worship
T o "thank" is a command
U ntil we see Him coming
V ictorious in the sky
W e'll run the race with gratitude
X alting God most high
Y es, there'll be good times and yes some
will be bad, but...
Z ion waits in glory...where none are ever sad!

when you thought I was't looking..........

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN'T LOOKING

When you thought I wasn't looking, by a Child

A message every parent should read, because your children are watching and
doing as you do, not as you say.

"When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you hang my first painting on the
refrigerator, and I immediately wanted to paint another one.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you feed a stray cat, and I learned
that it was good to be kind to animals.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make my favorite cake for me
and I learned that little things can be the special things in life.

When you though I wasn't looking, I heard you say a prayer, and I knew there
is a God I could always talk to and I learned to trust in God.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make a meal and take it to a
friend who was sick, and I learned that we all have to help take care of
each other.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of your time and money to
help people who had nothing and I learned that those who have something
should give to those who don't.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I felt you kiss me good night and I felt
loved and safe.

When you though I wasn't looking, I saw you take care of our house and
everyone in it and I learned we have to take care of what we are given.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw how you handled your
responsibilities, even when you didn't feel good and I learned that I would
have to be responsible when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw tears come from your eyes and I
learned that sometimes things hurt, but its all right to cry.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw that you cared and I wanted to be
everything that I could be.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I learned most of life's lessons that I
need to know to be good and productive person when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I looked at you and wanted to say,
'Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking.'"

Each of us - parent, grandparent or friend - influence the life of a child.

-- Author Unknown

turn on your security system.........

TURN YOUR SECURITY SYSTEM ON!

A horrible thing happened to me today.....a thief broke into my house. It
happened shortly after I awoke this morning. I got up and began rushing
about. I had a thousand things on my list and was already running behind.
Quickly, I gulped down breakfast, took a shower and got ready for work.

In my rush, I forgot to turn the security system on at my house. It was just
about a half an hour later that the thief broke in. Of course, he didn't
make a sound. Just kind of snuck inside, not drawing any attention to
himself. In fact, none of the neighbors ever saw him.

But, I did.

You see, I WAS HOME when the thief broke in.

He naturally startled me, as I was unprepared for his visit. He, of course,
didn't announce that he was coming and I certainly had not invited him over.

And yet, I found myself face to face with danger and I felt so powerless. I
also felt so very stupid, because this whole incident could have been
avoided if I had just taken the time to turn the security system on.

You better believe I'll be turning it on tomorrow morning! I thought I'd
warn you about this guy, because he's still on the loose. Chances are, he's
in your area. Possibly even headed for your house.

His name? His name is Satan. You see, this morning when I jumped up in my
haste to get started on my busy day, I skipped my prayer time - opting to
"pray later today." In other words, I DIDN'T TURN ON THE SECURITY SYSTEM. My
defense wasn't on, my guard was dropped ..... and when the thief came into
my home to attack me, I was unprepared to do battle. He tempted me and I
felt powerless. Like I said, I also felt so very stupid, because I could
have avoided the incident if I had just taken the time to pray.

My friend, the thief has come to "steal, kill and destroy." And, as a Child
of God, you are on his "hit list." He'll probably pop over to your house
today. He may be lurking outside your door right now, just waiting to catch
you off guard.

Take time to pray this morning. Ask God to bind Satan from your very
presence, to protect you and empower you to do battle. In short ..... don't
forget to turn your security system on.

-- Author Unknown

TIME Management........

TIME MANAGEMENT

One day, an expert in time management was speaking to a group of business
students and, to drive home a point, used an illustration those students
will never forget. As he stood in front of the group of high-powered
overachiever s he said, "Okay, time for a quiz" and he pulled out a
one-gallon, wide-mouth mason jar and set it on the table in front of him.

He also produced about a dozen fist-sized rocks and carefully placed them,
one at a time, into the jar. When the jar was filled to the top and no more
rocks would fit inside, he asked, "Is this jar full?"

Everyone in the class yelled, "Yes." The time management expert replied,
"Really?" He reached under the table and pulled out a bucket of gravel. He
dumped some gravel in and shook the jar causing pieces of gravel to work
themselves down into the spaces between the big rocks. He then asked the
group once more, "Is the jar full?"

By this time the class was on to him. "Probably not," one of them answered.
"Good!" he replied. He reached under the table and brought out a bucket of
sand. He started dumping the sand in the jar and it went into all of the
spaces left between the rocks and the gravel. Once more he asked the
question, "Is this jar full?"

"No!" the class shouted. Once again he said, "Good." Then he grabbed a
pitcher of water and began to pour it in until the jar was filled to the
brim. Then he looked at the class and asked, "What is the point of this
illustration? "

One eager beaver raised his hand and said, "The point is, no matter how full
your schedule is, if you try really hard you can always fit some more things
in it!" "No," the speaker replied, "that's not the point.

The truth this illustration teaches us is:

If you don't put the big rocks in first, you'll never get them in at all."

What are the 'big rocks' in your life, time with your loved ones, your
faith, your education, your dreams, a worthy cause, teaching or mentoring
others? Remember to put these BIG ROCKS in first or you'll never get them
in at all.

So, tonight, or in the morning, when you are reflecting on this short story,
ask yourself this question: What are the 'big rocks' in my life?

Then, put those in your jar first.

-- Author Unknown

our Predestined Appointment......by Charles Stanley

Our Predestined Appointment
Revelation 20:11-15

At the moment we were born, a countdown began on our lives. Every tick of the clock brings us one step closer to our inescapable appointment with God. Each of us will stand before Him as we are about to enter our eternal destination.

Tragically, there will be shocking disappointment for some. Jesus Himself warned, "Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name . . . ?' And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness" (Matt. 7:22-23).

The only way to eternal life is through faith in Jesus. Truly, our sin has separated us from the Father. But God's Son provided the solution to this universal problem: Christ lived a perfect life and then died a sinner's death on the cross to pay the penalty each of us owed (Rom. 6:23). After three days, He rose from the grave, defeating death and evil. By accepting His sacrifice on our behalf, we no longer have to live apart from God.

To receive this amazing gift, we must simply believe in Jesus and what He did. As a result, we become new creations (2 Cor. 5:17), are adopted as God's children (Eph. 1:5), and enter into a never-ending personal relationship with our Father.

Do you have confidence about where you will spend eternity? You may assume you have time to figure out this important issue, but let me give you some wise advice: Don't wait another minute to settle the matter, because "later" may never come. Repent of your sin today, and follow Jesus.

time to think.........

TIME TO THINK

My brother-in-law opened the bottom drawer of my sister's bureau and lifted
out a tissue-wrapped package.

"This," he said, "is not a slip. This is lingerie." He discarded the
tissue and handed me the slip. It was exquisite; silk, handmade and trimmed
with a cobweb of lace. The price tag with an astronomical figure on it was
still attached. "Jan bought this the first time we went to New York, at
least 8 or 9 years ago. She never wore it. She was saving it for a special
occasion. Well, I guess this is the occasion." He took the slip from me and
put it on the bed with the other clothes we were taking to the mortician.
His hands lingered on the soft material for a moment, then he slammed the
drawer shut and turned to me. "Don't ever save anything for a special
occasion. Every day you're alive is a special occasion."

I remembered those words through the funeral and the days that followed when
I helped him and my niece attend to all the sad chores that follow an
unexpected death. I thought about them on the plane returning to California
from the Midwestern town where my sister's family lives. I thought about all
the things that she hadn't seen or heard or done. I thought about the things
that she had done without realizing that they were special.

I'm still thinking about his words, and they've changed my life. I'm reading
more and dusting less. I'm sitting on the deck and admiring the view without
fussing about the weeds in the garden. I'm spending more time with my
family and friends and less time in committee meetings. Whenever possible,
life should be a pattern of experience to savor, not endure. I'm trying to
recognize these moments now and cherish them. I'm not "saving" anything; we
use our good china and crystal for every special event-such as losing a
pound, getting the sink unstopped, the first camellia blossom. I wear my
good blazer to the market if I like it. My theory is if I look prosperous, I
can shell out $28.49 for one small bag of groceries without wincing. I'm
not saving my good perfume for special parties; clerks in hardware stores
and tellers in banks have noses that function as well as my party-going
friends. "Someday" and "one of these days" are losing their grip on my
vocabulary. If it's worth seeing or hearing or doing, I want to see and hear
and do it now.

I'm not sure what my sister would've done had she known that she wouldn't be
here for the tomorrow we all take for granted. I think she would have called
family members and a few close friends. She might have called a few former
friends to apologize and mend fences for past squabbles. I like to think she
would have gone out for a Chinese dinner, her favorite food. I'm guessing -
I'll never know.

It's those little things left undone that would make me angry if I knew that
my hours were limited. Angry because I put off seeing good friends whom I
was going to get in touch with - "someday". Angry because I hadn't written
certain letters that I intended to write - one of these days. Angry and
sorry that I didn't tell my husband and daughter often enough how much I
truly love them.

I'm trying very hard not to put off, hold back, or save anything that would
add laughter and luster to our lives. And every morning when I open my
eyes, I tell myself that it is special.

Every day, every minute, every breath truly is... a gift from God.

If you've received this it is because someone cares for you. If you're too
busy to take the few minutes that it would take right now to forward this to
ten people, would it be the first time you didn't do that little thing that
would make a difference in your relationships? I can tell you it certainly
won't be the last. Take a few minutes to send this to a few people you care
about, just to let them know that you're thinking of them.

May God litter your life with blessings!

"You've got to dance like nobody's watching, and love like it's never going
to hurt."

"People say true friends must always hold hands, but true friends don't need
to hold hands because they know the other hand will always be there."

-- Author Unknown

Staying Young and Fruitful.....by Charles Stanley

Staying Young and Fruitful
Psalm 92:12-15

Our culture is obsessed with youth. The marketplace is flooded with products promising better health, fewer wrinkles, and trim physique. However, these will only touch the surface of our aging problem. Unless death intervenes, growing old is inevitable. Living old, however, is a choice.

We each have to decide if we are going to flourish or dry up, grow strong or become weak. Physically, we may have no choice in the matter, but we can be young in soul and spirit, regardless of our chronological age.

When a righteous man is firmly planted in the Lord, he'll become fruitful in things that will last into eternity. We are never to retire from bearing fruit. Rather, God wants us to abide continually in an intimate connection with Him. In that way, we can do the work He has given us to accomplish (John 15:4).

A righteous man will grow strong in the Lord like a cedar of Lebanon (Psalm 92:12). These trees can grow to a height of 120 feet with a girth of 40 feet. That is one strong tree! As we walk with Christ into our latter years, we can have the confidence and stability that come only from growing strong in faith. Each year is an opportunity to trust God more and rely wholly on His Word.

Staying young while growing old begins with your mind. Never stop listening to the Lord and learning from His Word. Allow godly thinking to shape your attitudes. Be thankful, keep laughing, and rejoice in your Lord. Above all, keep believing and loving Him with all your heart.

the buzzard.....the bat......the bumblebee.........and people

THE BUZZARD, THE BAT & THE BUMMBLEBEE

The Buzzard:

If you put a buzzard in a pen that is 6 feet by 8 feet and is entirely open
at the top, the bird, in spite of its ability to fly, will be an absolute
prisoner. The reason is that a buzzard always begins a flight from the
ground with a run of 10 to 12 feet. Without space to run, as is its habit,
it will not even attempt to fly, but will remain a prisoner for life in a
small jail with no top.

The Bat:

The ordinary bat that flies around at night, a remarkable nimble creature in
the air, cannot take off from a level place. If it is placed on the floor
or flat ground, all it can do is shuffle about helplessly and, no doubt,
painfully, until it reaches some slight elevation from which it can throw
itself into the air. Then, at once, it takes off like a flash.

The Bumblebee:

A bumblebee, if dropped into an open tumbler, will be there until it dies,
unless it is taken out. It never sees the means of escape at the top, but
persists in trying to find some way out through the sides near the bottom.
It will seek a way where none exists, until it completely destroys itself.

People:

In many ways, we are like the buzzard, the bat, and the bumblebee. We
struggle about with all our problems and frustrations, never realizing that
all we have to do is look up! That's the answer, the escape route and the
solution to any problem! Just look up!

Sorrow looks back, Worry looks around, but faith looks up!

Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly, and trust in our
Creator who loves us.

-- Author Unknown

the Master's Card...........

THE MASTER'S CARD

By now you have probably seen the catchy television commercials for
MasterCard. They start by identifying some things that people can buy with
their MasterCard, then show a moment that is priceless and end by saying,
"There are some things money can't buy, for everything else there's
MasterCard."

For example, in one such commercial there is a man and his young son headed
to the baseball park. The commercial shows the dad buying his son a hot dog
and you hear the words, "Hot dog at the big league game...$3.00. "

The next scene shows the dad buying a game program and the words,
"Program...$ 6.00." Then, one of those large, orange hands with the fingers
forming a #1 is shown and you hear something like, "Large, orange
hand...$15.00. " The commercial finishes by showing the father explaining
some important aspect of the game to his son, who is listening intently as
he looks up at his father with excitement in his eyes, "Meaningful
conversation between a father and a son... priceless."

"There are some things money can't buy, for everything else there's
MasterCard."

Friends, I'm not unlike those agencies promoting their favorite credit card.
I'm here to advertise. You see, my life is a commercial for others to see.
I'm a card carrying representative for the Master's Card. That's right, the
MASTER'S CARD. Let me tell you about it. There are no finance charges, no
payments due. My bill has already been covered...it' s a prepaid deal. I
couldn't afford the price, so Jesus stepped in and paid it for me. My Name
is written on the card for all to see.

It is accessible twenty-four hours a day from anywhere in the world. The
MASTER'S CARD has so many benefits it's hard to list them all. Let me share
some of them with you...you might want to apply for a personal card
yourself. Just for starters there is UNLIMITED GRACE. That's right, there is
no preset limit to the amount of grace you receive from the MASTER'S CARD.
Have you been looking for love in all the wrong places? Then, look no
farther than the MASTER'S CARD. It offers the greatest rate on love that has
ever been offered.

The MASTER'S CARD gives you access to many "members only" benefits. Want
real joy despite the difficulties of life? Apply for the MASTER'S CARD. Want
a lasting peace? Apply for the MASTER'S CARD.

Want real joy despite the difficulties of life? Apply for the MASTER'S CARD.
Want a lasting peace? Apply for the MASTER'S CARD. Looking for something you
can always rely on in a jam? The MASTER'S CARD is perfect for you.

Another great thing about the MASTER'S CARD is that it never expires. Once
you're a member, you're a member for life...eternal life, that is.
Membership has its privileges, you know.

How do you receive the MASTER'S CARD. Dial 1-800-ROMANS10: 9 "if thou shalt
confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that
God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." Jesus is standing
by right now to take your call. Don't delay. This great offer won't last
forever. Peace, joy and hope: Invaluable. Faith, contentment and assurance:
Inestimable. Salvation: Priceless.

There are some things money can't buy. For those, there's the Master's Card.
Christian, why not be an advertisement for the MASTER'S CARD. Let your life
be a commercial today for Jesus Christ.

-- Author Unknown

the Mountain Climber.......

THE MOUNTAIN CLIMBER

They tell the story of a mountain climber, who desperate to conquer the
Aconcagua, initiated his climb after years of preparation. But he wanted
the glory to himself, therefore, he went up alone. He started climbing and
it was becoming later, and later. He did not prepare for camping but
decided to keep on going. Soon it got dark...

Night fell with heaviness at a very high altitude. Visibility was zero.
Everything was black. There was no moon, and the stars were covered by
clouds. As he was climbing a ridge at about 100 meters from the top, he
slipped and fell. Falling rapidly he could only see blotches of darkness
that passed. He felt a terrible sensation of being sucked in by gravity.

He kept falling....and in those anguishing moments good and bad memories
passed through his mind. He thought certainly he would die. But then he
felt a jolt that almost tore him in half. Yes!! Like any good mountain
climber he had staked himself with a long rope tied to his waist.

In those moments of stillness, suspended in the air he had no other choice
but to shout, "HELP ME GOD", "HELP ME!"

All of a sudden he heard a deep voice from heaven..."What do you want me to
do?"

"SAVE ME"

"Do you REALLY think that I can save you?"

"OF COURSE, MY GOD"

"Then cut the rope that is holding you up."

There was another moment of silence and stillness. The man just held tighter
to the rope.

The rescue team says that the next day they found, a frozen mountain climber
hanging strongly to a rope... TWO FEET OFF THE GROUND.

How about you? How trusting are you in that rope? Why don't you let it go?
I tell you, God has great and marvelous thing for you.

CUT THE ROPE AND SIMPLY TRUST IN HIM...

-- Author Unknown

the Old Man and the Sea..........

THE OLD MAN AND THE SEA

After a few of the usual Sunday evening hymns, the church's pastor once
again slowly stood up, walked over to the pulpit, and gave a very brief
introduction of his childhood friend. With that, an elderly man stepped up
to the pulpit to speak, "A father, his son, and a friend of his son were
sailing off the Pacific Coast," he began, "when a fast approaching storm
blocked any attempt to get back to shore. The waves were so high, that even
though the father was an experienced sailor, he could not keep the boat
upright, and the three were swept into the ocean."

The old man hesitated for a moment, making eye contact with two teenagers
who were, for the first time since the service began, looking somewhat
interested in his story. He continued, "Grabbing a rescue line, the father
had to make the most excruciating decision of his life....to which boy he
would throw the other end of the line. He only had seconds to make the
decision.

The father knew that his son was a Christian, and he also knew that his
son's friend was not. The agony of his decision could not be matched by the
torrent of waves. As the father yelled out, 'I love you, son!' he threw
the line to his son's friend. By the time he pulled the friend back to the
capsized boat, his son had disappeared beyond the raging swells into the
black of night. His body was never recovered."

By this time, the two teenagers were sitting straighter in the pew, waiting
for the next words to come out of the old man's mouth. "The father," he
continued, "knew his son would step into eternity with Jesus, and he could
not bear the thought of his son's friend stepping into an eternity without
Jesus. Therefore, he sacrificed his son. How great is the love of God that
He should do the same for us." With that, the old man turned and sat back
down in his chair as silence filled the room.

Within minutes after the service ended, the two teenagers were at the old
man's side. "That was a nice story," politely started one of the boys, "but
I don't think it was very realistic for a father to give up his son's life
in hopes that the other boy would become a Christian."

"Well, you've got a point there," the old man replied, glancing down at his
worn Bible. A big smile broadened his narrow face, and he once again looked
up at the boys and said, "It sure isn't very realistic, is it? But I'm
standing here today to tell you that THAT story gives me a glimpse of what
it must have been like for God to give up His Son for me."

"You see....I was that father, and your pastor was my son's friend."

-- Author Unknown

the Perfect Mistake........

THE PERFECT MISTAKE

My Mother's father worked as a carpenter. On this particular day, he was
building some crates for the clothes his church was sending to orphanages in
China. On his way home, he reached into his shirt pocket to find his
glasses, but they were gone. When he mentally replayed his earlier actions,
he realized what had happened; the glasses had slipped out of his pocket
unnoticed and fallen into one of the crates, which he had nailed shut. His
brand new glasses were heading for China!

The Great Depression was at it's height and Grandpa had six children. He had
spent $20 for those glasses that very morning. He was upset by the thought
of having to buy another pair. "It's not fair," he told God as he drove home
in frustration. "I've been very faithful in giving of my time and money to
your work, and now this."

Months later, the director of the orphanage was on furlough in the United
States. He wanted to visit all the churches that supported him in China, so
he came to speak one Sunday at my grandfather' s small church in Chicago. The
missionary began by thanking the people for their faithfulness in supporting
the orphanage. "But most of all," he said, "I must thank you for the glasses
you sent last year. You see, the Communists had just swept through the
orphanage, destroying everything, including my glasses. I was desperate.
Even if I had the money, there was simply no way of replacing those glasses.
Along with not being able to see well, I experienced headaches every day, so
my coworkers and I were much in prayer about this. Then your crates arrived.
When my staff removed the covers, they found a pair of glasses lying on top.

The missionary paused long enough to let his words sink in. Then, still
gripped with the wonder of it all, he continued: "Folks, when I tried on the
glasses, it was as though they had been custom made just for me! I want to
thank you for being a part of that."

The people listened, happy for the miraculous glasses. But the missionary
surely must have confused their church with another, they thought. There
were no glasses on their list of items to be sent overseas. But sitting
quietly in the back, with tears streaming down his face, an ordinary
carpenter realized the Master Carpenter had used him in an extraordinary
way.

There are times we want to blame God instead of thanking him! Perhaps it is
something we ought to try more often, "Thank you God for not allowing my car
to start this morning." He may have been saving your life from a car
accident. "Lord Jesus, thank you for letting me lose my glasses; I'm sure
they'll be put to good use or there is a lesson to be learned."

-- Author Unknown

Baseball....the LORD's Baseball Game............

THE LORD'S BASEBALL GAME

Bob and the Lord stood by to observe a baseball game. The Lord's team was
playing Satan's team. The Lord's team was at bat, the score was tied zero to
zero, and it was the bottom of the 9th inning with two outs.

They continued to watch as a batter stepped up to the plate whose name was
Love. Love swung at the first pitch and hit a single, because Love never
fails. The next batter was named Faith, who also got a single because Faith
works with Love.

The next batter up was named Godly wisdom. Satan wound up and threw the
first pitch. Godly Wisdom looked it over and let it pass: Ball one. Three
more pitches and Godly Wisdom walked, because Godly wisdom never swings at
what Satan throws. The bases were loaded.

The Lord then turned to Bob and told him He was now going to bring in His
star player. Up to the plate stepped Grace. Bob said, "He sure doesn't look
like much!" Satan's whole team relaxed when they saw Grace. Thinking he had
won the game, Satan wound up and fired his first pitch. To the shock of
everyone, Grace hit the ball harder than anyone had ever seen. But Satan was
not worried; his center fielder let very few get by. He went up for the
ball, but it went right through his glove, hit him on the head and sent him
crashing on the ground; then it continued over the fence for a home run!

The Lord's team won.

The Lord then asked Bob if he knew why Love, Faith, and Godly Wisdom could
get on base but could not win the game. Bob answered that he did not know
why.

The Lord explained, "If your love, faith and wisdom had won the game you
would think you had done it by yourself. Love, faith and wisdom will get you
on base, but only My Grace can get you home. My Grace is the one thing Satan
cannot steal."

-- Author Unknown

the value of time..by John Maxwell

The value of time

John C. Maxwell

"The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant or favor to the learned; but time and chance happen to them all." – Ecclesiastes 9:11 Time is valuable. Psychiatrist and author M. Scott Peck said, "Until you value yourself, you won't value your time. Until you value your time, you will not do anything with it." In What to Do Between Birth and Death, Charles Spezzano says that people don't pay for things with money; they pay for them with time. If you say to yourself, In five years, I'll have put enough away to buy that vacation house, then what you are really saying is that the house will cost you five years—one-twelfth of your adult life. "The phrase spending your time is not a metaphor," said Spezzano. "It's how life works." Instead of thinking about what you do and what you buy in terms of money, think about them in terms of time. Think about it. What is worth spending your life on? Seeing your work in that light just may change the way you manage your time. * * * Answer this question: Are the tasks on today's agenda worthy of my life?

Rules from GOD for 2009.............

RULES FROM GOD FOR 2009

1. Wake Up !!

Decide to have a good day.

'Today is the day the Lord hath made; let us rejoice and be glad in it'
Psalms 118:24

2. Dress Up !!

The best way to dress up is to put on a smile. A smile is an inexpensive way
to improve your looks.

'The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at outward
appearance; but the Lord looks at the heart.' I Samuel 16:7

3 Shut Up!!

Say nice things and learn to listen. God gave us two ears and one mouth, so
He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking.

'He who guards his lips guards his soul.' Proverbs 13:3

4. Stand Up!!...

For what you believe in. Stand for something or you will fall for anything..

'Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper time, we will reap a
harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do
good...' Galatians 6:9-10

5. Look Up !!...

To the Lord.

'I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me.' Philippians 4:13

6. Reach Up !!...

For something higher.

'Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto your own
understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, And He will direct your
path.' Proverbs 3:5-6

7. Lift Up !!...

Your Prayers.

'Do not worry about anything; Instead PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING.' Philippians
4:6

I thought this was mighty special, just like you.

Pass this on and brighten someone's day, and remember:

God answers Knee-Mail.

-- Author Unknown

the Awakening.........

THE AWAKENING

A time comes in your life when you finally get it...when, in the midst of
all your fears and insanity, you stop dead in your tracks and somewhere the
voice inside your head cries out - ENOUGH!

Enough fighting and crying or struggling to hold on. And, like a child
quieting down after a blind tantrum, your sobs begin to subside, you shudder
once or twice, you blink back your tears and begin to look at the world
through new eyes.

This is your awakening.

You realize it's time to stop hoping and waiting for something to
change...or for happiness, safety and security to come galloping over the
next horizon.

You come to terms with the fact that neither of you is Prince Charming or
Cinderella and that in the real world there aren't always fairy tale endings
(or beginnings for that matter) and that any guarantee of "happily ever
after" must begin with you...and in the process a sense of serenity is born
of acceptance.

You awaken to the fact that you are not perfect and that not everyone will
always love, appreciate or approve of who or what you are ... and that's OK.

They are entitled to their own views and opinions.

And you learn the importance of loving and championing yourself...and in the
process a sense of new found confidence is born of self-approval.

You stop complaining and blaming other people for the things they did to you
(or didn't do for you) and you learn that the only thing you can really
count on is the unexpected.

You learn that people don't always say what they mean or mean what they say
and that not everyone will always be there for you and that it's not always
about you.

So, you learn to stand on your own and to take care of yourself...and in the
process a sense of safety and security is born of self-reliance.

You stop judging and pointing fingers and you begin to accept people as they
are and to overlook their shortcomings and human frailties..and in the
process a sense of peace and contentment is born of forgiveness.

You realize that much of the way you view yourself, and the world around
you, is as a result of all the messages and opinions that have been
ingrained into your psyche.

And you begin to sift through all the junk you've been fed about how you
should behave, how you should look, how much you should weigh, what you
should wear, what you should do for a living, how much money you should
make, what you should drive, how and where you should live, who you should
marry, the importance of having and raising children, and what you owe your
parents, family, and friends.

You learn to open up to new worlds and different points of view.

And you begin reassessing and redefining who you are and what you really
stand for.

You learn the difference between wanting and needing and you begin to
discard the doctrines and values you've outgrown, or should never have
bought into to begin with ... and in the process you learn to go with your
instincts.

You learn that it is truly in giving that we receive.

And that there is power and glory in creating and contributing and you stop
maneuvering through life merely as a "consumer" looking for your next fix.

You learn that principles such as honesty and integrity are not the outdated
ideals of a bygone era but the mortar that holds together the foundation
upon which you must build a life.

You learn that you don't know everything, it's not your job to save the
world and that you can't teach a pig to sing.

You learn to distinguish between guilt and responsibility and the importance
of setting boundaries and learning to say NO.

You learn that the only cross to bear is the one you choose to carry and
that martyrs get burned at the stake.

Then you learn about love.

How to love, how much to give in love, when to stop giving and when to walk
away.

You learn to look at relationships as they really are and not as you would
have them be.

You stop trying to control people, situations and outcomes.

And you learn that alone does not mean lonely.

You also stop working so hard at putting your feelings aside, smoothing
things over and ignoring your needs.

You learn that feelings of entitlement are perfectly OK....and that it is
your right to want things and to ask for the things you want ... and that
sometimes it is necessary to make demands.

You come to the realization that you deserve to be treated with love,
kindness, sensitivity and respect and you won't settle for less.

And you learn that your body really is your temple.

And you begin to care for it and treat it with respect.

You begin to eat a balanced diet, drink more water, and take more time to
exercise.

You learn that being tired fuels doubt, fear, and uncertainty and so you
take more time to rest.

And, just as food fuels the body, laughter fuels our soul.

So you take more time to laugh and to play.

You learn that, for the most part, you get in life what you believe you
deserve...and that much of life truly is a self-fulfilling prophecy.

You learn that anything worth achieving is worth working for and that
wishing for something to happen is different than working toward making it
happen.

More importantly, you learn that in order to achieve success you need
direction, discipline and perseverance.

You also learn that no one can do it all alone...and that it's OK to risk
asking for help.

You learn the only thing you must truly fear is the greatest robber baron of
all: FEAR itself.

You learn to step right into and through your fears because you know that
whatever happens you can handle it and to give in to fear is to give away
the right to live life on your own terms.

And you learn to fight for your life and not to squander it living under a
cloud of impending doom.

You learn that life isn't always fair, you don't always get what you think
you deserve and that sometimes bad things happen to unsuspecting, good
people.

On these occasions you learn not to personalize things.

You learn that God isn't punishing you or failing to answer your prayers.

It's just life happening.

And you learn to deal with evil in its most primal state - the ego.

You learn that negative feelings such as anger, envy and resentment must be
understood and redirected or they will suffocate the life out of you and
poison the universe that surrounds you.

You learn to admit when you are wrong and to build bridges instead of walls.

You learn to be thankful and to take comfort in many of the simple things we
take for granted, things that millions of people upon the earth can only
dream about: a full refrigerator, clean running water, a soft warm bed, a
long hot shower.

Slowly, you begin to take responsibility for yourself by yourself and you
make yourself a promise to never betray yourself and to never, ever settle
for less than your heart's desire.

And you hang a wind chime outside your window so you can listen to the wind.

And you make it a point to keep smiling, to keep trusting, and to stay open
to every wonderful possibility.

Finally, with courage in your heart and God by your side you take a stand,
you take a deep breath, and you begin to design the life you want to live as
best you can.

-- Author Unknown

the Cab Ride

THE CAB RIDE

Twenty years ago, I drove a cab for a living. It was a cowboy's life, a life
for someone who wanted no boss. What I didn't realize was that it was also a
ministry. Because I drove the night shift, my cab became a moving
confessional. Passengers climbed in, sat behind me in total anonymity, and
told me about their lives. I encountered people whose lives amazed me,
ennobled me, made me laugh and weep. But none touched me more than a woman I
picked up late one August night.

I responded to a call from a small brick fourplex in a quiet part of town.
I assumed I was being sent to pick up some partiers, or someone who had just
had a fight with a lover, or a worker heading to an early shift at some
factory in the industrial part of town. When I arrived at 2:30 a.m., the
building was dark except for a single light in a ground floor window.

Under these circumstances, many drivers would just honk once or twice, wait
a minute, then drive away. But I had seen too many impoverished people who
depended on taxis as their only means of transportation. Unless a situation
smelled of danger, I always went to the door. This passenger might be
someone who needed my assistance, I reasoned to myself. So I walked to the
door and knocked.

"Just a minute," answered a frail, elderly voice. I could hear something
being dragged across the floor. After a long pause, the door opened. A small
woman in her 80s stood before me. She was wearing a print dress and a
pillbox hat with a veil pinned on it, like somebody out of a 1940's movie.
By her side was a small nylon suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one
had lived in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets. There
were no clocks on the walls, no knick-knacks or utensils on the counters. In
the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and glassware.

"Would you carry my bag out to the car?" she said.

I took the suitcase to the cab, then returned to assist the woman. She took
my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb. She kept thanking me for my
kindness.

"It's nothing," I told her. "I just try to treat my passengers the way I
would want my mother treated."

"Oh, you're such a good boy," she said.

When we got in the cab, she gave me an address, then asked, "Could you drive
through downtown?"

"It's not the shortest way," I answered quickly.

"Oh, I don't mind," she said. "I'm in no hurry. I'm on my way to a hospice".

I looked in the rearview mirror. Her eyes were glistening.

"I don't have any family left," she continued. "The doctor says I don't have
very long."

I quietly reached over and shut off the meter.

"What route would you like me to take?" I asked.

For the next two hours, we drove through the city. She showed me the
building where she had once worked as an elevator operator. We drove through
the neighborhood where she and her husband had lived when they were
newlyweds. She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse that had
once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl. Sometimes she'd
ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner and would sit
staring into the darkness, saying nothing.

As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, "I'm
tired. Let's go now."

We drove in silence to the address she had given me. It was a low building,
like a small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a portico.
Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were
solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been
expecting her. I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door.
The woman was already seated in a wheelchair.

"How much do I owe you?" she asked, reaching into her purse.

"Nothing," I said.

"You have to make a living," she answered.

"There are other passengers," I responded.

Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She held onto me
tightly.

"You gave an old woman a little moment of joy," she said. "Thank you."

I squeezed her hand, then walked into the dim morning light. Behind me, a
door shut. It was the sound of the closing of a life.

I didn't pick up any more passengers that shift. I drove aimlessly, lost in
thought. For the rest of that day, I could hardly talk. What if that woman
had gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient to end his shift? What
if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once, then driven away? On a
quick review, I don't think that I have done very many more important things
in my life.

We're conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments. But
great moments often catch us unaware - beautifully wrapped in what others
may consider small ones.

-- Author Unknown

a thought........

You'll notice that a turtle only makes progress when it sticks out its neck.

What are you doing with your weekend.........

SUNDAY COMPOSERS
By Dr. Michael A. Halleen

"We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. . . . (Let us) use it in proportion to (our) faith." (Romans 12:6)

Alexander Borodin was a nineteenth century Russian composer, a member of "The Mighty Handful," a group of that nation's five leading composers dedicated to producing a distinctly Russian music. His opera, Prince Igor, is thought by some to have been his most significant work.

Borodin, however, always considered himself no more than a part-time musician—a "Sunday composer," as he called himself. His training and professional career were in organic chemistry. He worked as a researcher in that field, writing scholarly articles and delivering lectures in Russian universities and throughout Western Europe. But on weekends, as a hobby, he wrote string quartets and symphonic poems—and Prince Igor. It's that music that became his legacy to the world. Likewise . . .

- Socrates was a stonemason who made a good honest, living. But he was a curious man, and in his off hours he asked questions and challenged people to think. Today he's remembered as the founder of Western philosophical thought.

- Alexander Graham Bell was a teacher whose wife was nearly deaf, and at least in part as an effort to assist her to hear better, he invented the telephone. What started as weekend tinkering to solve a domestic communication problem revolutionized communication for all.

- The Wright brothers built bicycles in Ohio, but when business was slow they fiddled around with the idea of flying. It was just a sideline. Then came that December day in Kitty Hawk, and the Wrights would forever be associated with flight.

- Jimmy Carter was, in many ways, an undistinguished, garden-variety U.S. president. Since leaving office, however, he has achieved greatness in still another career as an international diplomat and humanitarian.

The gifts that lie within many are too great to be confined to a single avenue of expression. The interests that drive some spirits are too varied and rich to be satisfied with punching the same clock for forty years. And, for a certainty, the needs of the world go well beyond the contribution any of us can make to meet them in a mere eight hours per day. We need more "Sunday composers."

Are there dreams still hidden in you? What are you doing next weekend?

the Barber.......

THE BARBER

After twenty years of shaving himself every morning, a man in a small Southern town decided he had enough. He told his wife that he intended to let the local barber shave him each day. He put on his hat and coat and went to the barber shop, which was owned by the pastor of the town's Baptist Church. The barber's wife, Grace, was working that day, so she performed the task. Grace shaved him and sprayed him with lilac water, and said, "That will be $20."

The man thought the price was a bit high, but he paid the bill and went to work. The next morning the man looked in the mirror, and his face was as smooth as it had been when he left the barber shop the day before.

Not bad, he thought. At least I don't need to get a shave every day. The next morning, the man's face was still smooth. Two weeks later, the man was still unable to find any trace of whiskers on his face. It was more than he could take, so he returned to the barber shop.

"I thought $20 was high for a shave", he told the barber's wife, "but you must have done a great job. It's been two weeks and my whiskers still haven't started growing back."

The expression on her face didn't even change, expecting his comment. She responded, "You were shaved by Grace and once shaved, always shaved!"

-- Author Unknown

what is death.....but to be free

I'M FREE

Don't grieve for me for now I'm free,
I'm following the path God laid for me.
I took His hand when I heard Him call,
I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way,
I found that peace at the close of the day.

If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss,
Ah yes, these things I too will miss.

But be not burdened with times of sorrow,
For I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full. I've savored much,
Good friends, good times and loved ones'
touch.

Perhaps my time seemed all too brief
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your hearts and share with me.
God wanted me now. He set me free!

to Focus on God............by Charles Stanley

Focusing on God
Genesis 37:5-11

"Man is born for trouble" (Job 5:7). There is no way to avoid or escape this common condition of mankind. As we continue to look at Joseph's life, we get a glimpse of the anchor that held him steady while, one after another, the waves of affliction rolled over him.

When Joseph was a teenager, he was given two dreams about the Lord's future plans for his life. They revealed that he would one day be in a place of authority and honor, and his family would bow down to him. Scripture had not yet been written in those days, and the Lord would sometimes speak to men in their dreams.

Previously, God had spoken to Jacob in a dream and given him a promise (Gen. 28:10-16). And now his son was hearing from the Lord in the same way. Joseph followed his father's example of faith and believed the message.

The Lord knew that Joseph was going to need a promise to get him through the difficulty that would soon follow. God's Word to him was his anchor. During all the trials, Joseph kept on believing that the Lord would fulfill His promise. He focused on the faithfulness of the God, not on his circumstances.

When the Lord speaks to our hearts through Scripture, we can hold onto what He says as an anchor for our souls. He will keep His promises to us, just as He did for Joseph. When we focus on God and His Word, our fears will dwindle, our sense of need will diminish, and our doubts will be cleared away.

Trials in life..........by Charles Stanley

Through Times of Trial
Genesis 39:19-23

When the problems of life seem overwhelming, we need someone to come alongside and help us to see our difficulties through the eyes of our sovereign God. Joseph is just such a person. Although he lived thousands of years ago, his story still speaks to us with great insights into the Lord's purposes.

Joseph experienced a wide variety of trials--hatred, rejection, and betrayal by his brothers; loss of home, family, and freedom; false accusation and imprisonment; and the loneliness and disappointment of being forgotten. His life was a series of difficult and unfair situations, yet Scripture never records any bitterness or revenge in Joseph's responses to all these circumstances.

Though outwardly it may have seemed as if God had abandoned the young man, inwardly He was doing some awesome work in Joseph's heart. The Lord had some big plans for him, and He knew that these trials would be the most effective tools for preparing His servant for the work that lay ahead.

As Joseph responded to each situation with faith in God and diligence in every task assigned to him, one fact became obvious to all who knew him: the Lord was with Joseph (Gen. 41:38-39).

We need to remember this when we are going through hard times. The Lord is with us even when our circumstances shout that He has deserted us. We may have little control over the difficulties we face, but we each have a choice of how to respond. Joseph calls to us from a time long past, urging us to trust God.

Church Bulletin Bloopers..........

these sentences actually appeared in Church Bulletins or were
announced in Church Services. So sit back and let us begin.....
___________________________

Bertha Belch, a missionary from Africa, will be speaking tonight at
Calvary Methodist. Come hear Bertha Belch all the way from Africa.
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The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals.
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The sermon this morning: "Jesus Walks on the Water." The sermon
tonight: "Searching for Jesus."
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Our youth basketball team is back in action Wednesday at 8 PM in
the recreation hall. Come out and watch us beat Christ the King.
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Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of
those things not worth keeping around the house. Don't forget your
husbands.
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The peacemaking meeting scheduled for today has been canceled
due to a conflict.
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Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our community. Smile
at someone who is hard to love. Say "Hell" to someone who doesn't
care much about you.
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Don't let worry kill you off - let the Church help.
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Miss Charlene Mason sang "I will not pass ! this way again," giving
obvious pleasure to the congregation.
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For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a
nursery downstairs.
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Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the
help they can get.
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Barbara remains in the hospital and needs blood donors for more
transfusions. She is also having trouble sleeping and requests
tapes of Pastor Jack's sermons.
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a Round Tuit........

A ROUND TUIT

This is a Tuit. Guard

it with your life as Tuits

are hard to come by, especially

the round ones. This is an indispen-

sable item. It will help you become

a more efficient worker. For years we

have heard people say, "I'll do it as

soon as I get a Round Tuit." Now

that you have one, you can ac-

complish all those things

you put aside until

you got a Round

Tuit!

10 rules to post on the fridge

10 RULES TO POST ON THE FRIDGE

There are some important things that your teachers didn't teach you in
kindergarten, and that you didn't learn anywhere in school. Following

are 10 essential rules of life:

RULE 1: Life is not fair; get used to it.

RULE 2: The world won't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect
you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.

RULE 3: You will not make $40,000 a year right out of high school. And you
won't be a vice-president with a car phone until you earn both.

RULE 4: If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss. She
doesn't have tenure.

RULE 5: Flipping burgers is NOT beneath your dignity. Your grandparents had
a different word for burger flipping; they called it opportunity.

RULE 6: If you screw up, it's not your parents' fault, so don't whine about
your mistakes. Learn from them.

RULE 7: Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are
now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes, and
listening you talk about how cool you are. So before you save the rain
forest from the blood-sucking parasites of your parents'

generation, try delousing the closet in your own room.

RULE 8: Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off, and
very few employers are interested in helping you find yourself. Do that on
your own time.

RULE 9: Television is not real life. In real life people actually have to
leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.

RULE 10: Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one.

Resentment

RESENTMENT

"Resentment is like taking poison and waiting for the other person to die."