Sorting

What's useful?

and what needs a new home?

“I wish I lived closer. I am a great organizer and pitcher!” My friend in another state heard I was majorly reorganizing my rooms and furnishings.

As I see it, God thought my friend's reorganizing and tossing was a great idea, because He/She sent my sister and my cousin this afternoon, and we had a pitching party!

The girls established four categories:

• Sort - what is useful? What needs a new home?
• Keep - because it is useful
• Give away - because it needs a new home
• Toss - would not bless anyone

And everything was consigned to one of these areas. This is proving to be a highly effective approach to clearing out clutter, to discovering what is really important and relevant. I have been able to let go of some things I had previously clung to -- but really had no present usefulness.

This is also an effective approach to life.

We have an opportunity every day, every moment to first:

• Sort thoughts as to whether or not they come from God. Whatever is good and fair and honest comes from God
• Then either keep and honor a thought because it is a useful and from God
• Or give it away because it is so good it needs to be shared! (The neat thing about sharing a good idea is that we are not diminished by sharing. Good multiplies when shared.)
• Or toss it in the trash because it obviously is not from God, therefore cannot in the long run give either satisfaction or blessing

So as I sort through the sorting pile they kindly bequeathed me, I will remember that what is really going on is the sorting of thoughts – determining which are useful and worth keeping or sharing, and which have served their purpose and need to be discarded.

No limit to the good you can accomplish

One of the kids has a report to write on an American who has made a significant contribution to mankind. He knew his choice. So we went to the library today and checked out three books at his reading level -- on George Washington Carver.

As the boys played Legos nearby, I picked up one of the books and was reading it to myself.

Born probably during the American Civil War, infant George and his mother were snatched away by slave kidnappers, to be sold in another state. George was found and returned to his home, but his mother was never located. Despite overwhelming odds, and with the encouragement and faith of adult friends, this youngster was determined to learn, and his love was birds and plants.

Reading about his amazing life and brave decisions, I oohed and ahhed aloud. To the boys’ raised eyebrows, I explained George’s cleverness in securing his first job as a cook at the age of 13. They were hooked and settled in on the couch on either side of me. I continued reading aloud for the next couple of hours as they listened intently.

We heard the story of a child, a young man, and then an adult, who never gave up, who made the best of what he had, and often made the best even better. A man who loved nature. A man whose goal was to improve life first for his own people, and then for everyone else as well. His expertise became farming. And his practical contributions were hundreds and far-reaching.

We also heard the story of a man who was on intimate terms with his God. He had conversations with God, asked Him questions, listened carefully to the answers.

This God connection finally explained, for me, how he could accomplish so much good. Because I also believe that the source of all that is good is God. Yet this humble man teaches me that my questions to my Maker are mostly too small in scope. I need to ask more questions, broader questions, and to listen better for the answers.

To accomplish unlimited good, we must commune with an unlimited God. And not be afraid after asking the basic questions, to go forward with the answers we hear.

When you swerve to the right or left,
you hear a Voice behind you whispering,
"This is the way, walk here."
(Moffatt)

Watching boys grow - one day at a time!

A time for reflecting on

unexpected thoughtfulness and caring

Kim, who has raised two, remarked early on with great enthusiasm, “I never knew boys could be so much fun!”

Her sincere joy shocked me to the core. At that time we had a daughter who was predictably feminine —dolls, an eye for pretty clothes, cheer-leading tryouts, boyfriends.

I would have had no idea what to do with a boy. So it was amazing to me that somebody my peer was finding this preschool male experience fun, stimulating, exciting. And her words came back full force when our daughter later presented us (one at a time) with two grandsons.

Yup, little boys in our lives for sure. We figured out what to do with them one day at a time, often following their parents’ lead, and praying a lot as well.

It was important then, and it is important now, to remember that these boys, and all children for that matter, have an infinitely wise and caring Father-Mother who looks after them, gives them wisdom to discern between good and bad, gives them good and productive ideas and the desire and ability to follow through with these ideas.

Case in point. The other day when asked if he felt older, the nine-year-old thoughtfully replied, “I don’t feel older; I just feel more responsible.”

In fact, he really is showing more self-restraint and consideration for others. And no doubt there was a conversation with a parent somewhere behind that statement. Boys grow up in very good ways, day by day.

His second-cousin is fourteen. As I was ready to leave the Christmas gathering this evening, he saw I had too many bags for one trip. “Would you like help carrying these out to the car?” he offered.

“Sure would!” I replied smiling inside and out.

Boys grow up, day by day. And it shouldn’t be amazing, but it is a wonderful thing to see responsibility in the form of thoughtfulness and caring replacing the stereotypes.

I second Kim’s statement of years ago, amended slightly. “Boys are so much fun, and they are amazing as well.”

Hope fulfilled - even though after Christmas

Cat enjoys winter sunshine

during Christmas season

A friend replied to my email for a blessed Christmas. He wrote that although his wife is no longer here,

It is truly a joyous time for me because of the memories of the good of the past.

Then he included a wonderful story. It happened in the spring, decades ago, and embodies the spirit of Christmas, of hoped for good unexpectedly realized. He continued:

I did not know that we and our relatives were "poor" during the depression of the 1930's. My Dad and Granddad had a three person factory in Rock Island that a man had sold to them on a very friendly basis – no income, no payment.

A fellow from Chicago asked Dad to make a die that would stamp out little 2" x 4" tags that said "HOOVER." It was for attaching to automobile license plates because Hoover was running for President.

When Dad phoned and told him that the die was ready, the man drove down to Rock Island, and picked it up. He paid for the work with a check on the only bank in Chicago that was open.

Dad took the check to the grocery store where Mom had a bill. The grocery store took the check to the Rock Island Argus (newspaper, still exists today) and paid on their advertising bill. The Rock Island Argus took the check to the coal yard and paid on their fuel bill.

That check circulated around Rock Island like cash and many businesses were blessed. The back side of the check was filled with endorsements.

He concludes:
The Christmas "season" is for young people, and their happiness spills over into our happiness. Hopefully we all know what it is really about.

Hopefully we do.

Creative reminder

Location: Will County, southwest of Chicago.

On the corner of 191st and LaGrange Road this morning, drivers honked cheerfully.

A man and woman were working the intersection next to the White Castle. He carried a large sign. She waved at the vehicles. Motorists driving past, honked and waved.

The couple waved back and pointed to those who honked with “Yes!” gestures.

Were they wearing reflective vests? Collecting money for some cause? The usual?

No. That wasn’t it. The sign they carried had a horizontal
M E R R Y, and a vertical C H R I S T M A S.

Somebody exercised their creativity in constructing this reminder, and their good-will in standing on a busy street corner.

It was their counterstatement to the marketing of Christmas, to remember that:

Christ -- God's universal expression of love, peace and goodwill (BTW, not shopping) -- is indeed, as church billboards remind, the Reason for this Season.

The Nativity Story

Grandson Alan and I watched The Nativity Story together the other evening.

Confession: I popped the DVD into the TV expecting the music to draw him into the living room. Previews for coming features were kid-oriented, and Alan snuggled in comfortably next to me on the couch.

Suddenly Herod’s soldiers were slaughtering boy infants in Bethlehem. “What are they doing, Gramma? Why?”

Flashback to Nazareth where a sixteen year-old Mary and her friends are sowing grain, and flirting with boys working nearby.

Alan has lots of questions, and we use the “pause” button often to make connections as scenes jumped from the poor village of Nazareth to Jerusalem where a paranoid Herod worries about an a predicted Messiah competing for local kingship, then to distant lands where three wise men discuss a coming confluence of planets creating great brightness in the night sky.

The New Testament accounts indicate that the Wise men probably arrived in Bethlehem a couple of years after Jesus’ birth, by which time Mary and Joseph were living in a house. The film chose to perpetuate the traditional Christmas card scene of the shepherds and the wise men all gathered round the little family in the stable.

It was disappointing that this otherwise excellent film did not take advantage of the opportunity to correct the timing misperception.

Meanwhile, The Nativity Story wonderfully fills in the gaps of the Gospel accounts. How Mary may have barely known Joseph, how ruthlessly the Romans oppressed the poor villagers, how nervous Joseph is about marrying. How arranged marriages for young girls, even among loving families, may often have been an economic necessity because of too many mouths to feed.

It explains wonderfully the status of the young couple – each living with their parents for another year, yet married in every way except that which leads to family.

The film clarifies the beautiful spiritual bond between aunt Elizabeth and young Mary –both blessed with overlapping pregnancies announced by angels. Mary’s own parents were not so understanding. When questioning Mary about her pregnancy and who the father might be, to Mary’s reply her mother repeats in disbelief, “An angel told you this?”

We empathize with Joseph's struggle -- between feeling betrayed by his fiancé and wanting to protect her from stoning by the villagers.

We really begin to understand how difficult it must have been for Mary to be engaged and pregnant. And that it was not just noble, it took great courage for Joseph to say the unborn child was his. Mary warns, “People will not look at you the same any more,” meaning they would not respect him.

We see how the young couple may have dealt with angel messengers, and critical neighbors. The harsh landscape between Nazareth and Bethlehem glares at us. A reluctant Mary gradually warms to recognize and appreciate Joseph’s goodness and unselfishness.

We feel Joseph’s desperation when looking for a safe place for Mary to deliver. In short, we care about these people. We care about their hopes, their concerns, their struggles.

There have been a lot of movies portraying Jesus. Here’s one that, without religious overtones, introduces us to his parents.

Well done!

Another blog on The Nativity Story

Father's love letter

A friend sent this :"chapter and verse" email; perhaps it will make you smile, as it did me.


You may not know me, but I know everything about you. Psalm 139:1

I know your ups and downs, and your deepest longings. Psalm 139:2

I guard your path, and I’m familiar with all your ways. Psalm 139:3

Even the very hairs on your head are numbered. Matthew 12:7

For you are made in my image and blessed. Genesis 1:27,28

In me you live and move and have your being. Acts 17:28

For live in my presence, and you are my offspring. Acts 17:28

I knew you even before you were conceived. Jeremiah 1:4-5

I chose you when I planned creation. Ephesians 1:11-12

You were not a mistake, you are on purpose! For my good purpose. Psalm 139:15-16

I have made all men brothers. Acts 17:26

I have been with you since the day you were born. Psalm 71:6

I have been misrepresented by those who claim to know me, but don't. John 8:41-44

I am not distant and angry, but I am unchanging Love itself. 1 John 4:16

I love you so much, I call you my sons. 1 John 3:1

Simply because you are my child and I am your Father. 1 John 3:1

I give more generously than even your earthly father. Matthew 7:11

For I am the perfect Father. Matthew 5:48

Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand. James 1:17

For I am your provider and I meet all your needs. Matthew 6:31-33

My plan for you is a future of peace and hope. Jeremiah 29:11

Because my love for you is endless, always. Jeremiah 31:3

You can run, but you can’t hide from my love. Psalms 139:1-12

And I rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17

I will do you good, because that is my nature. Jeremiah 32:40

Honor me and discover yourself as my treasured possession. Exodus 19:5

I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul. Jeremiah 32:41

Just ask, and I will show you great and marvelous things. Jeremiah 33:3

If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me. Deuteronomy 4:29

Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4

I work through you to achieve, as your desires, my good purpose. Philippians 2:13

My love supports you more than you could possibly imagine. Ephesians 3:20

I establish the good works I have given you to do. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

As Father I comfort you, so you may know how to comfort others in their troubles. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Find me closest to you when your heart is breaking. Psalm 34:18

As a shepherd carries a lamb, I carry you close to my heart. Isaiah 40:11

And all the pain, dearth, sorrow will be wiped away. Revelation 21:3-4

I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus. John 17:23

For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed. John 17:26

He is the exact representation of my nature. Hebrews 1:3

He came to demonstrate that I am on your side! Romans 8:31

And to assure you I am not keeping track of your sins in a little black book. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19

Jesus came so that you and I could be reconciled. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19

His life, death, and resurrection was the ultimate expression of my love for you. 1 John 4:10

If you recognize Christ, you recognize me. 1 John 2:23

And nothing – past, present, or future, can separate you from my love. Romans 8:38-39

Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen. Luke 15:7

I have always been, and will always be, your Father. Ephesians 3:14-15

My question is, Will you be my child? John 1:12-13

I am waiting for you. Luke 15:11-32

Love, Dad

Repeating what's really good

Rocks and thawing floods
"repeat the sounding joy"

Joy to the world, the Savior reigns!
Let all, their songs employ;
while fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains
repeat the sounding joy
repeat the sounding joy,
repeat, repeat, the sounding joy

This Christmas season brings to mind the traditional carol, “Joy to the World,” which includes this invitation, “Repeat the sounding joy!”

What a great statement of purpose. Yours and mine. To repeat the resounding joy of God and man -- not distant and angry, but in tender and warm relation to one another.

There are, in the course of one’s day, certain things not to be repeated. Here’s the only time the word “repeat” is even used in the King James Bible:

“He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.” (Prov 17:9)

or in today’s vernacular:

“One who forgives an affront fosters friendship, (New Revised Standard)
but he who repeats or harps on a matter separates even close friends.” (Amplified)

The wisdom writer understood that dwelling on a dispute separates friends, while forgiveness gives space for friendship to grow.

Other events to not repeat are our own past failures. Mistakes are to learn from, not to hash over. Once we have discovered the needed lesson so that it doesn’t happen again, move on. Life will provide plentiful opportunities to get it right the next time. And the next.

Simple rule of living: repeat whatever is good about God and man. Refuse to repeat (or gossip) disputes, discord, failings. Don’t be the 5 pm local news. Rather be grateful for all the good you can find.

Then you’ll feel the joy your life is repeating.

Saying "No!" to doubt - over and over

Sometimes good listening pushes us way out of our comfort zones, out of our comfortable little habits. Sometimes we just can’t afford to doubt. Alan’s 9th birthday party was Sunday noon, and I was bringing the cake.

Only problem was that I realized with dismay – on the way to a Christmas party Saturday evening – that I hadn’t ordered a cake, nor baked one. What to do?

Previously I might have wasted a lot of time condemning my inattention to this important detail. But one great lesson God has been teaching me is to bypass the blame game, and get on to the solution. So instead of self-recrimination, there was just a simple, “Father what should I do?” Should I skip church in the morning, and buy ingredients for a quick cake?

The answer that came was, “See if you still have that carrot cake mix you bought recently.”

So I enjoyed the Christmas party, came home and there in the pantry were the needed supplies. Doubt asked, “Does Alan even like carrot cake?”

Rebuke to doubt: "Be quiet!"

I followed my intuition and went ahead and baked a 13 x 9 flat cake.

Doubt asked, “Not even a traditional layer cake?”

Rebuke to doubt: "Hush!" This cake saga became even more unusual, as I cast about for decorations for the blank looking cream cheese frosting.

The thought came, “Let Alan decorate it.” Doubt asked, “Let Alan decorate his own cake? That he may not even like?”

Rebuke to doubt: "Go away!"

So I stopped after church at a grocery store, and found decorating supplies. Alan and younger brother Lee were at the other Grandma’s when I arrived at their house. Doubt asked, “So the boy isn’t even here. Now what?”

Rebuke to doubt: "I am not listening to you!"

Other Grandma and boys showed up shortly in good spirits. Fast forward. Alan, totally engaged, uses a skewer to outline a Calvin in the frosting, then fills in the outline with decorative colors, encouraged by great grandma and great grandpa.

Little brother comes over and is impressed; asks to help place the candles. Mom takes photos. Everyone praises the artist. In short what started out as a catastrophe becomes a happy success.

The apostle Paul was speaking of much more serious matters when he wrote to his fledgling church in Rome,

“Moreover we know that to those who love God,
who are called according to his plan,
everything that happens fits into a pattern for good.”
(Phillips)

I believe this applies to the minutiae of daily life too. If we are doing our best to know how to please God and love our fellow man, He/She is there for us in the details as well.

But we do have to say "NO!" to doubt. As many times as it takes.

Women of courage find their voices

Two recent events stand out for me. One was a panel of women of faith. I walked two blocks to the event with the driver of the car parked ahead of me. She herself was an amazing woman. I was so glad to hear her voice.

Rose is writing a paper on the ordination of women in the Catholic church. We discovered we had both read “The Gospel of Mary Magdalene” by Karen King, which posits that Jesus’ real message was hijacked – by men – officially in 325 AD, and has been mostly buried ever since. What remains is what men have permitted, and what remains missing is the voices of women.

The women on the panel – a Jewish Rabbi, a Catholic sister, and the (woman) president of the Islamic Society of North America – made warm, yet serious, presentations about the roles of women in their faiths.

But what stuck with me most was Rose’s courage. Her heart tells her that Jesus’ ministry was very woman inclusive. Her church tells her women are excluded from giving sacraments. She follows her heart in an uphill struggle.

The other event was Friday morning’s 44th Annual Greater Chicago Leadership Prayer Breakfast, sponsored by the Chicago Sunday Evening Club. A wonderful Gospel choir sang throughout.

This choir with the descriptive name of “Harmony, Hope, and Healing,” functions to give back to marginalized women their voices. These women, primarily from shelters, are survivors – women who have recently escaped abusive situations. Violence had silenced their voices, and this joyous choir helps them find the songs their lives are intended to be.

Their final number, “This little light of mine,” strongly confirmed the choir’s success in achieving their goal. The showcased soloist proved that she had indeed found her voice, and used it to improv for her Lord – as she soared all over the treble staff and beyond. She followed her heart and found the courage to let her light and her voice shine.

Gratitude Dance

Gratitude. It's an attitude.

Gratitude recognizes present good.

As the YouTube below shows, gratitude is pretty universal,

The desire to dance for joy is pretty universal.

These folks have chosen to dance their gratitude!

It's always good to set aside a few minutes each day to pause and recognize what's good in our lives. And who, or Who, we can be thanking for it.

It might be a tenderly quiet time of reflection, or a few spontaneous moments of great joy.

Enjoy.

(Just double click on the arrow in the middle of the screen)

23rd Psalm at Christmas Time

A carved shepherd tenderly carries

a lost sheep back to the fold

A friend sent this email, saying it helps her combat the bombardment of commercialism at this time of year.

The Lord sets my pace;

I will not rush.

He makes me to stop for quiet intervals;

He provides me with images of stillness

which restore my serenity.

He leads me in the ways of His purpose

through calmness of mind,

His guidance is safe and peaceful.

Even though there are many things to accomplish

I will not fret

for His presence is here.

His timelessness, His goodness

Keeps me in balance.

He prepares refreshment and renewal

in the midst of many demands.

He anoints my mind with His oil of tranquility

My cup overflows with renewed joy.

Surely harmony and good purpose

shall be the fruits of my hours;

And I will walk in the dependable rhythm of the Lord

And dwell in His house forever.

Hippo gratitude

It’s always thrilling to me to see limiting assumptions shattered by an occasional exception to the rule.

Especially when that exception springs from love.

Jessica and her family are one of those exceptions.

Click Here for video

Hope you enjoy this romp into the unexpected.

The Lord's Prayer -- different perspective

A daddy swan (called a cob)

Someone posed this question:

What would happen if we put “Dear Father” in front of every phrase in the Lord’s Prayer?

Would we think more deeply about that prayer?

Let's try it.

Dear "Father which art in heaven,"

Dear Father, "Hallowed be your name."

Dear Father, "Your kingdom come."

Dear Father, "Your will be done in earth, as it is in heaven."

Dear Father, "Give us this day our daily bread."

Dear Father, "forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors."

Dear Father, "lead us not into temptation,"

Dear Father, "deliver us from evil:"

Dear Father, "Yours is the kingdom,"

Dear Father, "Yours is the power,"

Dear Father, "Yours is the glory,"

Dear Father, "For ever."

Amen.

What then about Dear Mother?

or Dear ever-present Love?

or Dear forever Truth?

or Dear infinite Mind?

or Dear eternal Life?

What then?

Finding a way past anger

“Mom, can you take the boys tomorrow evening? We’re having a small dinner party, and we’d like it to be just adults.”

That’s how I came to pick up the grandsons Saturday afternoon. My preference is one boy at a time, but I am cautiously flexible for special occasions.

However, the eight-year old was not happy. His dad had just instructed that they were not to watch The Three Stooges at Grandma’s house, because they escalate into silliness and wildness afterwards. I appreciated my son-in-law’s preventive foresight.

We set off, Alan in a blue funk. “We have never missed The Three Stooges!” he explained, arms folded across his chest. His contribution to conversation, usually bright and imaginative, was totally negative.

At that point I rejected the scenario that the rest of the evening was going to be overshadowed by this heavy and self-hypnotizing reaction to disappointment.

So I prayed for harmony. My prayer went something like this. Dear Father (one way I like to identify God), thank you for being the only Mind here. You are in charge, you are in control, and your ever-present goodness alone sets the tone.

I wasn’t sure how God was going to fix this, but I was sure He/She would.

Finally younger Lee had had enough of the negativity and said bluntly, “Alan, you just want us to feel bad.”

“No I don’t.”

“Yes you do.”

“No I DON'T!”

“Yes YOU DO!”

Here I interrupted. “May I say something? I think what Lee is trying to say is that when one person chooses to be grumpy, it makes it hard for the others to stay happy.”

Silence in the back seat. Then from Alan, “Well why didn’t you tell me?”

From that point, Alan made an honest effort to change his attitude and to be pleasant. By the time we reached home, he was his normal cheery self. The boys played with Legos, and enjoyed each other all evening. Minor differences were quickly worked out on their own.

I am learning to really appreciate the power of prayer and its role in grand-parenting!

Giving thanks is good for the heart!

Three times this past year, events happened during the day that weren’t on the radar in the morning when I awoke. Untoward things that had to be dealt with unexpectedly.

Each time I felt buoyed, sustained, tenderly guided by the God I have come to know as ever-present Love.

So at this time of year when in the US we as a nation are invited to literally recognize and count our blessings, I am thankful for all who were, and are, there as a special blessing when their advice or help or presence was particularly needed. I hope they know how appreciated they are.

Beyond my own needs, I am grateful for our men and women in uniform who are sacrificing normal and safer lives at home to answer the call of their country to make peace in difficult places. I pray for their safety and protection, and especially for their ability to use good judgment in making quick decisions in life and death situations.

I am grateful that the infinite Love who meets my needs is already universally and unconditionally present anywhere His/Her children happen to be.

Happy thanks giving as you consider your own blessings!

The universal language of kindness

The scratching post

“Kindness is a language we all understand
Even the blind can see it

and the deaf can hear it.” Mother Theresa

And animals understand it.

Kindness is so needed, and sometimes seems so understocked in the world’s inventory. Yet each of us has the ability to multiply the supply!

I hope this simple example doesn’t sound too trivial.

I recently took my cat to have his claws clipped. Although he tries to cooperate and uses his scratching post regularly, sometimes when his claws grow out, he forgets and stretches them on the carpet. After this happens a couple of times, he goes to Victoria for a clipping.

The grooming room at the back of her house can be a cacophony – clippers buzzing, a small pooch yipping for attention, her shop vac inhaling clippings from the floor.

Buster clung to the sides of his carrier defying gravity as I tried to pour him onto the grooming table. So I released the knobs that allow you to separate the top from the bottom of the carrier and picked him up.

We stepped back as Victoria vacuumed poodle fur from the floor. Clinging to me like Velcro, Buster wasn’t about to let go of his one security in that room.

"Oh, you don't have to put him down," she said. Victoria finished her vacuuming, came right over to the frightened feline, gently lifted each paw from my jacket and clipped his nails. In 30 seconds he was done, and back inside what he considered the safety of his carrier.

Afterwards I thought a lot about her kindness to an infrequent cat client. Kindness comes from the heart. In giving kindness, we don’t lose anything; we increase the world’s inventory and improve our own.

I believe God put kindness into each of us as an essential ingredient of our character.

Yet for some of us, acting on our caring seems to come more naturally than to others. Sometimes harsh circumstances bury individual goodness for awhile, maybe for years. But it is God’s design for mankind to express goodness and caring. And being the recipient of thoughtfulness serves to remind us that that’s our nature too.

This, I think, is the secret of kindness:

We see eye to eye and know as we are known,
reciprocate kindness and work wisely,
in proportion as we love.
Mary Baker Eddy

Not in proportion as we are loved, but in proportion as we give love to our world. When we need help, a loving God shows us how to discover this love and share it.

Watching for love gifts

Greek honor guard

at the tomb of the unknown soldier

Chris and I had about three hours free time in Athens. We had been encouraged to go to the Plaka, a unique labyrinth of local shops and restaurants.

Starting out with directions and map, we became distracted by a crowd of people in front of an official looking pink and white structure. We later learned this was the Parliament building.

On a marble plaza in front of the Parliament, an honor guard for the Greek Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was preparing to be relieved by the next shift. These tall, handsome young men performed their carefully choreographed routine with precision, accuracy, focus, and total disregard for tourists bold enough to have their pictures taken next to these on-duty soldiers.

We quickly exchanged a temptation to be disappointed at not finding the Plaka, for recognizing the privilege of stumbling upon the changing of the guard.

God frequently works serendipitously in our lives. He/She hides little gifts here and there along our paths. If we're too busy, self-absorbed, or determined to follow a specific agenda, we miss some, or perhaps most, of the gifts. On the other hand, if we're willing to look at a wrong turn and not label it a "mistake," we often discover something or someone delightful. And to find a God-guided good purpose for our being in an unexpected place.

It's important, for me anyway, to learn the flexibility of looking for the presents in the present, that indicate infinite Mind's ever-present goodness.

God doesn't make any wrong turns, and as I try to stay close to my highest sense of what I think His purpose is for me at any given time, I feel his gentle guiding. I'm learning to trust that direction, even when it doesn't take me to where I thought I should be headed.

It's a more gracious way to live, a less hectic approach to life and relationships. No wonder Jesus taught, Your heavenly Father will give you what you need, "if you give him first place in your life and live as he wants you to." (Living Bible) This approach takes away all the stress.

St. Paul, the whole purpose for my trip to Greece, was so convinced of the solidity of his relationship to God, that he didn't worry about what might appear to others to be mistakes. He could say with honesty and the conviction of experience that nothing could separate him from the love of God, which he had discovered through Christ Jesus.

Thanks to Christine Proctor for the excellent photo

Always a beautiful work of art

On the island of Rhodes, I watched an apprentice potter grasp a dull gray lump of clay. He shaped this lump on his spinning potter's wheel, molding it skillfully with his fingers. Within minutes it had become a beautiful vase.

Prophets from 2500 years ago found the clay and the potter a good metaphor for the relationship of man to God. Isaiah wrote, "O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand."

Paul too uses the potter metaphor in his letter to the Romans. He advises against questioning the skill or the motive of the potter. And he addresses the need to trust the potter, and not become so absorbed in our own projects that we miss God's very presence!

I can relate to that. There are many times when with unbridled enthusiasm I have rushed forth with what seemed to me a great idea -- only to realize somewhere down the line when things began to unravel, that I hadn't asked God's opinion.

So I'm getting better at going to God first. With a "God, what kind of pot would you like me to be today? How can I best serve you today?"

As long as it's is my Maker's idea, I've learned I can be not only content, but rather excited about how He/She shapes and molds my day. And maybe that's where the pottery metaphor ends. Because while a vase or a water pot is a completed object, infinite Mind's (another name for God) creation is actively and continuously unfolding. It just never ends.

And so our Maker's purpose for us continually unfolds, providing us with new views, new insights, clearer understanding, fresh opportunities.

_______________________________________________________

The potter is not in the clay;
else the clay would have power over the potter.

God is His own infinite Mind, and expresses all.

Mary Baker Eddy

_____________________________________________________

Sweet celebration --Veteran’s Day

Alan introduces himself

and his shy "patriot"

At Jefferson grade school, all the kids were urged to bring a vet to school at 1 pm last Friday. The kids who invited their vets were called “patriots.” Patriots is also the name of the school mascot. About 60 veterans showed up for the program in the school library, including my friend Alan with his granddaughter.

The principal warmly welcomed the vets, and invited everyone to sing the National Anthem. The sixth grade chorus in bright red polo shirts sang “Grateful to be American.” Two kids read a neat patriotic poem of gratitude to those who have fought for our freedoms.

Then came the best – and longest – part. Each vet accompanied by his “patriot(s)” went to the microphone, and read from a little sheet they’d filled out when they came in. They told their name, branch of service and years they served, their highest rank attained, and their “patriot’s” name and grade.

The whole room was totally attentive! Vets of all ages, every branch of service, were each honored with a great round of applause. Some had served 8 or 9 years or more; some were career guys; some on active duty – one just back from Iraq, another re-deploying in February. One harked back to WW II. Some were in uniform, some not – from all walks of life.

Group photos of the men (no women this time) with their military branches followed these individual introductions. Then began a great parade through flag-decked school halls, lined on both sides with 800 clapping, cheering, children and their teachers.

Think 6, 9, 12 years old. And you and your brother/uncle/dad/grandpa are being cheered by your classmates, because of their service to their country. What a special memory!

Gratitude is always appropriate. Appreciation for another's sacrifice is never out of fashion. And honoring those who have put their lives on the line for their country speaks of generosity and caring.

Thanks NF for the photo!

Does God have a sense of humor?

Does God have a sense of humor? For sure. How do I know? Because He/She makes me laugh all the time.

For example: driving in Chicago had not been my favorite thing – and, please note, I am putting that in past tense – primarily because city parking has often been a challenge.

I had registered for what promised to be a most interesting program – Hidden Treasures: The voices of women in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam – hosted in downtown Chicago.

So, in my desire to support all things good and womanly, I looked for someone to come along, another set of eyes for locating a parking space. Plenty of interest in the topic, but no takers who were also registered for the event.

I prayed about my reluctance because I was tempted not to go. And the answer that came was Yes, go.

So I just gave it all to God. Something like, “God, since you want me to be part of this gathering tonight, I know you will take me all the way. You would not tell me to go and not provide parking.” I guess this mostly reassured me that I needed to quit grumbling and totally trust that higher power.

My Mapquest route favoring major expressways looked less promising as traffic crawled out of Chicago on the Stevenson – which to my mind should have been uncrowded on a Sunday afternoon.

The idea came to exit on Cermak and take local streets to the church where the event was being held. I had to trust that intuition, because leaving known highways for unknown side streets was pushing me out of my comfort zone.

Exiting the expressway turned out to be an excellent plan. I had to smile while thanking God, who I think of as one infinitely good Mind. When I reached the little residential street where the host church was located, you can imagine my total amazement to see men in orange reflective vests – helping people locate parking spaces on that street!

I was grinning from ear to ear. It was as if the Father (another name for God that’s meaningful to me) was saying, “So, you want help finding parking? Here they are, in bright orange vests!”

“OK, dear Father-Mother, I get it, I’m a believer! Thank you SO much for this sweet gift.”

God's love is expressed in joy and good humor that never puts anyone down, but thoughtfully or spontaneously lets us know God is with us, loving, guiding, rescuing us.

Dogs - partners in play

The Bible doesn’t have much to say about dogs. That could be because the ancient Hebrews didn’t have much use for them. So we must look elsewhere.

Hearts are good. If we look in our hearts, we find that dogs are wonderful companions, ego builders, comforters, buddies, partners in play.

I recently viewed an old 8mm movie of my childhood dog, Cappy. Wherever the kids walked or biked or played (and in those days we did all three - usually outdoors), Cappy was there, participating. He was one of the family, and he felt loved and needed.

Well, here’s a youtube of a 21st century dog -- hanging out with the kids. Who says animals are not intelligent?

Just double click on the arrow in the middle of the photo.




Do you have a dog story you'd like to share?

Dealing decisively with impositions

Caryatids are female figures
taking the place of columns

Our last day in Athens. Yiannis (Yah’ nees, means John) our very capable guide, had brought us to the Acropolis (means high place, and every Greek city has one). Every few minutes he paused to share historical insights. We twenty-six crowded close to learn.

We heard how Lord Elgin in the early 1800s had been given permission by the ruling Turks to take one of the caryatids back to England – where it remains today. Athens wants it back, and has built a large new museum to prove it.

Yiannis was pointing out the nearby seaport of Pireas, which we could easily see from this height, when two other tourists attached themselves to our group. Yiannis finished his talk and the men followed us to the next spot. And the next.

It didn’t feel quite right. I wondered how this was going to play out. These fellows had latched on to an interesting and knowledgeable guide. Yet they were not part of our group.

As we gathered round, Yiannis made his move. Looking directly at the men he spoke loudly and firmly, “You two are not with this group. You must leave.” The men didn’t budge. “Yiannis continued, “These people have paid Euros to have this tour. There are other guides here. You must find your own.”

The men looked at each other for a long moment, before reluctantly walking away. Yiannis’ brief speech was to the point and effective. He did not tolerate the imposition.

Paul also dealt decisively with a disconcerting imposition. While in Philippi he had been harassed by a slave girl “who brought her masters much gain by soothsaying.” She had followed Paul and Silas day after day, chanting after them.

Finally after many days, Paul had had enough. He healed her on the spot of her capacity to “sooth-say.”

When impositions faced him, Christ Jesus took control. He dealt swfitly with whatever opposed his sense of God as Love. He encouraged others to follow his example. So, what would that mean today?

For me it means to take charge. Recognize the imposition as an imposition, whatever it is. Size it up – determine what’s going on. Be clear about the solution. Then speak with authority.

Impositions can take many forms. Sickness and pain are impositions on God’s creation. As I see it, God didn’t create them, so they don’t belong.

Hate, anger, resentment, confusion, and anxiety are also impositions. As I see it, God didn’t create them either, so they don’t belong.

So when any of these things come knocking at my thought door for acceptance and identity, I can choose to refuse to let them be part of my thought group. As I see it, they have no place in God’s infinite goodness, and I can with God-given authority stand up to the intruders as suggestions that can be turned away.

It’s amazing how often and how quickly standing up to such impositions has good results.

For other posts on Paul's travels, click here

By the way, for those who may be interested, this tour was hosted and led by http://www.biblicaltravels.com/

Finding the beauty underneath

Mars' Hill, as it looks today,
where Paul spoke to the Athenians

While waiting for Timothy and Silas to join him in Athens, Paul explored the city. He was impressed by statues everywhere to Greek gods and goddesses.

When he decided to speak to the Athenians, he addressed them from a high spot called Mars' Hill. There he commented on how scrupulously religious they were. They were so careful to include every god that they even created an idol to the unknown god - just so none would be left out. The King James version of Paul's words, "ye are in all things too superstitious," sounds like a put-down. But actually Paul was complimenting them. A more accurate translation would be, "You are in every way very religious."

When in Athens a few weeks ago, we walked up Mars Hill. It's a huge old rock, big enough for many people to congregate. It's bumpy though, with weathered outcroppings everywhere. Marble perhaps.

Greece has LOTS of marble. The ancients paved their streets with marble, built columns of marble, and created beautiful statues. Marble magnificently adorns modern Greece as well.

On Mars' Hill old gray boulders muscle up just far enough to have become part of the path and people naturally walk on them. Over decades, maybe centuries, the rough exteriors have in some places been worn away. Beneath that surface roughness glows a warm and beautiful marbly orange interior that becomes shinier the more it is polished by countless soles of tourist shoes.

As I bent closer to confirm what I thought I was seeing, that rock became a metaphor for people. I've met a lot of folks who were crusty and bristly on the outside. As we walked into each others lives, and maybe even stepped on each other a bit, lovely color, vibrancy, beauty, and caring surfaced.

It is good to not be fooled by appearances, to cultivate the ability to look past unpromising exteriors to the person within struggling to be valued and appreciated as worthwhile. It sometimes takes a lot of love to be willing to move past surface impressions, but the resulting friendships can be precious.

God saw beneath Paul's tough and determined exterior, to the willing and honest heart, which He shaped and warmed so that a transformed Paul traveled to Asia and Europe to preach a God of Love.

Christ Jesus “threw upon mortals the truer reflection of God
and lifted their lives higher than their

poor thought-models would allow
— thoughts which presented man as fallen, sick, sinning, and dying.”
Mary Baker Eddy

"Now" vs Jet Lag

A mosaic in Berea where both Jews and Greeks

received what Paul had to say AND

Paul really did speak from steps

like those in the mosaic

Time is a funny thing, an arbitrary measurement, sometimes useful, sometimes a pressure cooker. Yet is it time that builds pressure, or is it how we relate to the ticks and tocks of our day?

Here’s a splendid application for managing time. One of our travel hosts on my recent trip following Paul’s footsteps in Greece, explained helpfully, “As soon as I get on the plane, I set my watch to the time of the place where I am going. And I think and act according to the time it is there.”

My sister had advised, “Don’t even think in terms of ‘If I were home I’d be having breakfast, or sleeping, or whatever.’ Live in the now.”

What a practical two-step antidote for jet lag. 1. Set your watch for where you are going and think and act according to the time it is there. 2. Live in the now.

It worked well for all 26 of us on the tour, so far as I know.

We can refuse to be the victim of “time” in other ways too. When I first discovered this some years ago, I was late for something that seemed important and the temptation was to lean heavy on the pedal and zip through traffic to try to be not-too-late. It occurred to me that instead of being a traffic hazard by driving as though only I was important, I could consciously both slow down and pray.

Have you ever tried to break a hurry-hurry habit? It isn’t always easy. What came to me as I prayed was that I was exactly where God wanted me to be – expressing His qualities of thoughtfulness, patience, and trust in the one Mind to be in control. When hurrying, I was trying to be in control. By slowing down, I was trusting God’s timing.

I agreed to let God be in control, and prayed for the harmony, safety, and good judgment of all on the road. Sure enough upon arrival, I was the first one at the meeting – others had been delayed as well. And this same sort of calm trust in God’s timing has yielded similar results time after time.

Paul lived in the now. He advised forgetting the past and setting goals and moving toward those goals. His personal goal was letting God direct his life for God’s own good purpose. If he had had a watch, I think Paul would have set it for “Now.”

By the way, for those who may be interested, this tour was hosted and led by http://www.biblicaltravels.com/

Mirror polishing

In ancient times bronze mirrors had to be polished daily in order to see your reflection.

Otherwise they tarnished quickly, and became dull and useless.

Bronze mirrors displayed in the Corinth museum.

Regarding the great question of our relationship to God, Paul wrote to the Corinthians, “we see and understand only a little about God now, as if we were peering at his reflection in a poor mirror; but someday we are going to see him in his completeness, face to face.” Meanwhile, he said, the most important thing is to “love extravagantly.” (Living Bible and The Message)

This from a man who had to learn, and did, how to deeply love his fellow man.

Mirrors of bronze needed to be polished daily to in order to reflect an image at all. At best the images were dim. Without daily polishing, they quickly tarnished, and became dull and useless. What’s the metaphor here? If we want our thinking to reflect the beauty and joy of God’s creation, we need to keep our thoughts polished – free from the tarnish of hate, anger, resentment, selfishness, anxiety, fear.

How can we accomplish this? Paul sent the answer to his beloved church community in Philippi. He said, "In conclusion, my brothers, fill your minds with those things that are good and deserve praise: things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honorable." (Today’s English Version)

I think Paul is onto something. Despite the turmoil the media serves up as news, there is much more good than evil in mankind and in the world. What's good is worth zeroing in on, recognizing, and cherishing.

This is where we need to focus thought. It doesn't mean we ignore evil, it means we keep it in perspective. That’s how we polish our mirrors to better see God’s hand in our lives and in the world. That's how we align with the infinite good that overcomes the evil.

By the way, for those who may be interested, this tour was hosted and led by http://www.biblicaltravels.com/

How is your life purpose?

Paul liked sports metaphors. He likened our life purpose to running a race. The Corinthians hosted the Isthmian Games, and it’s probable that Paul enjoyed watching some of these events.


Athletes in Olympia trained in gymnasiums.

The stoa, or covered colonnade next to the gymnasium, the columns of which you see here reconstructed after earthquakes, hosted philosophy discussions.


Paul pointed out that all the contestants run, but only one wins. What’s needed to win, he says, is focus. Greek athletes trained for ten months prior to the races. Paul knew the importance of staying in peak condition, staying alert to avoid anything that would distract from training.

The reward for the winner was a wreath of pine or laurel. Paul contrasts this with the reward for a life in service to God -- heavenly approval of unselfish love for one’s fellow man.

So once again Paul speaks across the centuries.

Find your relationship with your creator. Discover how He/She wants you to use your gifts, your talents, in the service of others. And focus on achieving this goal. Be alert to distractions, for the devil doesn’t like good things going on, and diversion is a favorite tool. Stay in mental and spiritual shape. And keep to your course.

There’s no limit to the good we can accomplish, if we give our lives to Christ to transform for his spiritual purpose.

Success in life depends upon persistent effort,
upon the improvement of moments
more than upon any other one thing. . .

If one would be successful in the future,
let him make the most of the present.

Mary Baker Eddy

Beauty of Math? For sure!

Somebody emailed this recently, and for fun and variety, you might enjoy it.

Beauty of Math!

1 x 8 + 1 = 9
12 x 8 + 2 = 98
123 x 8 + 3 = 987
1234 x 8 + 4 = 9876
12345 x 8 + 5 = 98765
123456 x 8 + 6 = 987654
1234567 x 8 + 7 = 9876543
12345678 x 8 + 8 = 98765432
123456789 x 8 + 9 = 987654321

1 x 9 + 2 = 11
12 x 9 + 3 = 111
123 x 9 + 4 = 1111
1234 x 9 + 5 = 11111
12345 x 9 + 6 = 111111
123456 x 9 + 7 = 1111111
1234567 x 9 + 8 = 11111111
12345678 x 9 + 9 = 111111111
123456789 x 9 +10= 1111111111

9 x 9 + 7 = 88
98 x 9 + 6 = 888
987 x 9 + 5 = 8888
9876 x 9 + 4 = 88888
98765 x 9 + 3 = 888888
987654 x 9 + 2 = 8888888
9876543 x 9 + 1 = 88888888
98765432 x 9 + 0 = 888888888

Brilliant, isn't it?

And look at this symmetry:

1 x 1 = 1
11 x 11 = 121
111 x 111 = 12321
1111 x 1111 ! = 12 343 21
11111 x 11111 = 123454321
111111 x 111111 = 12345654321
1111111 x 1111111 = 1234567654321
11111111 x 11111111 = 123456787654321
111111111 x 111111111=12345678987654321

Now, think about 101%.

From a strictly mathematical viewpoint,
What Equals 100%? And what does it mean to give MORE than 100%?

Ever wonder about those people who say they are giving more than 100%?

We have all been in situations where someone wants you to GIVE OVER 100%.

How about ACHIEVING 101%?

Here's a fun little mathematical formula that might help answer these questions:

If letters are represented as numbers:
a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26.

So, if:
H-A-R-D-W-O-R- K
8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11 = 98%

And:
K-N-O-W-L-E-D-G-E
11+14+15+23+12+5+4+7+5 = 96%

But:
A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E
1+20+20+9+20+21+4+5 = 100%

THEN, look how far the love of God will take you:
L-O-V-E-O-F-G-O-D
12+15+22+5+15+6+7+15+4 = 101%

Therefore, one can conclude with mathematical certainty that:
While Hard Work and Know ledge will get you close,
and Attitude will get you there,
It's the Love of God that will put you over the top!

Have a nice day, & may you feel God’s love all around!!!

Closed doors? Don't be discouraged!

Nancy Fischer, tour host,
explains Paul's impact on
the Christian community in Philippi

Ever feel frustrated, because your project keeps being stymied? All the doors keep closing in front of you?

That happened to Paul. He and Silas had traveled to Lystra (a city located in modern Turkey), where they found Timothy – who became a faithful companion and trusted colleague. So far so good.

The trio traveled west. Just one problem. Luke (who wrote the account) says the Spirit blocked that route. By this time Paul was so committed to serving this God of Love, that when God closed one door, Paul simply said OK, and looked for a new direction.

This time they went north towards Bithynia – an ancient region of mountains and forests, bordering the Black Sea that included serveral large cities. Paul probably thought that must be where God wanted him to go.

However, Luke says, the Spirit didn’t let him go there either. Most likely Paul was trying to find the logic behind this message. And Troas, an important seaport, made sense as a new destination, so they headed west once again.

There in Troas, where they could travel by ship, he had a vision of a man in Macedonia calling Paul to come and help them. At last their direction was clear. They were to take their message beyond Troas – to Europe!

And that’s how they happened to come to Philippi – where, as you have read in previous blogs, they met a merchant named Lydia, a slave girl, and a jailer.

So I’ve been thinking, when a project seems important and doors keep closing it’s important to be clear whether, like Paul, I am totally committed to serving God and fulfilling His purpose. Or whether it’s a notion I cooked up because it seemed like a good idea at the time – without checking with the “Boss.”

Because if it’s indeed a God-initiated project, then He supports it and points the way for its completion. If it’s just a Sandi plan, well, it’s probably not going to be the lasting blessing it could be if it were God-centered.

Certainly we prefer the clarity of a message that says, "Go here," or "Go there." Yet here is Paul, 2000 years later, teaching yet another lesson – about not being discouraged when the message comes in the form of blocked paths -- "Don't go here" and "Don't go there." He didn't let anger, discouragement, or frustration keep him from going forward as best he understood how.

When we really want to serve God, infinite good, and are willing to (preferably promptly) change direction, He will show us the way.

By the way, for those who may be interested, this tour was hosted and led by http://www.biblicaltravels.com/