Philosophy and Phoolishness

Fading Light Good Intentions Our Heavenly Dwelling Modern Christianity Velcro Memories A Debt of Gratitude A Different Tack A Little Nip A Matter of Attitude A Positive Legacy A Treasury of Talents A Vote for Moderation Achievement Afflictions Answered Prayer Are We Really Meek and Lowly? Beyond Human Comprehension Blessings in Disguise Blind Faith Brainpower Bravery By Their Fruits You Shall Know Them Chasing Butterflies Christ or Crazy? Comparisons Compliments Conforming to Nature Cooking Lesson Count Your Blessings Counting Blessings Country Spring Creation or Accident? Dads Discipline Don’t Believe It! Eighteen Wheelers Endurance Every Farmer Knows Exercise Faith and Peace Father’s Rules Forsaking the Assembly Friendship and Freedom Fruits of the Spirit Fun or Happiness? Getting in Gear Gifts From the Past Glad to Be Old Go with the Flow God Lives!  All is Well Godly Government God’s Banquet God’s Wisdom God’s Wondrous Wisdom Growing Old With Grace Happy Fiftieth, Weldon and Helen! Happy Is as Happy Does Health Foods Heart Healthy Heavenly Prescription Heavenly Recipe Heaven’s Flowers Human Folly Husbands Idiosyncrasies I’ll Have It Made In Pursuit of Joy Individuality Inspiration or Perspiration? It's In The Genes Judging Our Abilities Judgment Just a Little White Lie Last Will and Testament Laws of Nature Leadership Learning Lessons of Life Let This Cup Pass Life is Tough Life’s Highway Little Things Looking Back Lovers Love’s Test Marvels of Aging Mature Love Merry Christmas Mind Over Matter Miracles Money Problems Morning Prayer Mysteries Nature Adapts Nature’s Musical Obedient Faith Our Awesome God Outlook on Aging Parents are People, Too Peace Perfect Guidelines Perspective Petition for Aging Points of View Prayer Priceless Blessings Putty in His Hands Puzzles Recipe for Marriage Rockin’ Chair Gotcha? Rules of Nature Say Again? Self Image Silent Communication Something’s Wrong Here! Sonnet to Stoicism Step by Step Styles Success Successful Parenting Sufficient Unto the Day “Take No Thought for Raiment” Talent Talent Search Teaching Old Dogs The Art of Kindness The Good News The Journey The Last Call Girl The Midnight Sky The Music of Life The Peacemaker The Pecan Tree The Road Less Traveled The Secret of Happiness The Texican Language The Thinking Heart Thinking Positive To Be Me Trials Develop Perseverance Trouble-Free Marriage? Understanding Utopia Values Visualization What’s the Rush? What’s This Nation Coming To? Who Woulda Thunk It? Wondering Works of Faith Worldly Wisdom Worship My Foundation History Repeats Sermon/Poems Satan's Web Service A Pearl of Great Price Choices Even God Can Fail If You Think You Stand Priorities Self Worth The Balance of Love Unity Life's Lemons Walking with God Practical Lessons of Life Bribing God Suffering in Christ One Body, One Head Mold and Make Me Open My Eyes Someone Cares Getting Ahead of God The Plagues of Egypt The Ten Virgins Forgiveness Christianity Joshua's Faith Coming Out of Bondage Reminders from Peter Blessed Pain Talents and Gifts Sermon on the Mount Joyous Service The Old Rugged Cross Choosing Deacons Peace or Panic? Destroying to Build Passover The Touch of a Friend Parenting Grace Conquers All

Fading Light The small white fluffy clouds turn pink above the darkened crest as Sol, our source of daily light, drops slowly in the west. Then grey creeps round the edges as the sun sinks lower still, till pink gives way to charcoal leaving no hint of the thrill of the bright rays of the sunset that moments ago held sway, delighting the beholder's eye, announcing the end of day. And just as quickly, we can wane, turn dark with sin and shame, when our eyes stray from the truth of God to lust or greed or fame. Without his light to guide our way, the clouds of doubt roll in. We must hold fast his precious word, his Spirit deep within. Lucifer, the fallen angel, is wily, hard at work, waiting for a chance to nab a soul from the shadows where he lurks. He would love to take away our joy, turn our attitude to grey, bring us down to his own level before the judgment day. § Good Intentions "The road to hell," I've often heard, "is paved with good intentions." Our plans seem right, but can they pass the test? Judas followed Jesus, an apostle just like Peter, and worked great wonders, ministered with the best. Guided by the Holy Spirit, he endured persecution, was hated as he preached in Jesus' name. He had faith in the Messiah, saw proof of his awesome power, yet inwardly despised the ache of shame. How could he help prove to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ? A public hearing might just be the thing! Before the priests and elders, he could call upon the Father to free himself, and heaven's bells would ring. Judas didn't ask for riches, just enough to fan the flames of jealousy that ruled ungodly hearts. But, like many good intentions based upon our human wisdom, a roaring forest fire so often starts. When he saw the failure of his plan--his leader doomed to die-- remorse for all his foolishess was great. Ashamed to ask forgiveness, he chose to hang himself, to be the master of his own sad fate. § Our Heavenly Dwelling 2 Corinthians 5 We know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, a heavenly mansion waits, a house of joy, eternal clothing for our soul, a dwelling so divine, a building that no human hands employ. With confidence of faith, straining past the world of sight, we look forward to that promised, awesome day when the Lord reclaims his home-sick child, the soul that never dies, and this troubled, groaning body falls away § Modern Christianity When Jesus was asked which commandment was greatest, what do you think he said? Put on your best clothes, go sit in a pew, and hear a few scriptures read? Exactly what was a “church house” in those early Christian days? Would we today get excited about meeting in burial caves? The money collected on Sunday wasn’t spent on their comfort and ease. It went to poor saints who were robbed of their jobs when they chose only God to please. They stood for hours to worship despite the dangers they faced, being despised and rejected when their families they disgraced, hunted down like animals, tortured, devoured by lions for sport. The setting on the thermostat was not of much import. If a man like Paul applied for a job as a preacher in modern times, he would likely face derision and scorn, a greeting less than sublime. § Velcro Memories From childhood come the sights and sounds, the feelings and the smells that stick like velcro in my brain where scrambled memory dwells. The feel of syrup oozing down behind a toddler's ears, the window smashing the tom cat's tail, his screech arousing fears. The smell of mint brings back the peace of Spring Grove's garden plot. Rain plinking on a metal roof relaxes me a lot like olden days in Skinners' shack and learning how to swim. But as the years have come and gone, my memory grows dim. The names of folks I met today, the date I can't recall. Like teflon are the memories of  this old-age screwball. § A Debt of Gratitude We owe a vote of thanks to those who often gave their all for freedom of responding to God’s own timeless call. They bucked religious folly to slowly right the boat, bail out old superstitions and keep the ship afloat. The printing press was one strong link in our long anchor chain to give us access to the Word, like sunshine after rain. The thinkers and the seekers who dared to change the tide may not have understood it all but aren’t we glad they tried?! They moved a mighty mountain as, one stone at a time, they paved the road for all of us that leads to worlds sublime. § A Different Tack So your husband isn’t perfect and you tell him every chance you get. But nagging doesn’t change him;  on that point I would bet. A new approach is called for:  Recall that first attraction. Just act as if he’s perfect  and wait for his reaction. Praise each attempt at kindness,  no matter what the cost. Encourage and inspire him;  your efforts won’t be lost. He’ll try to fit your image,  improving all the while and as YOUR attitude has changed,  you’ll often wear a smile. The rule has always been the same;  they haven’t changed it yet. For happiness, you can be sure,  you have to give to get. § Gifts From the Past Ever held the past in your fingers? Can time really turn around? Sometimes a simple treasure is the one that will astound. "Mrs. J. B. Barrett," the package said, not a name I recognized, and as its contents were disclosed, I was totally surprised. Two brightly colored yards of cloth that once held chicken feed brought out a crop of memories from a past long gone to seed. They were a gift from Oma Lee and daughter, Mable Sue, who once ran Georges' Grocery Store - along with Harrison, too. There we purchased our necessities, from beans to Honest Snuff, and feed for all those chickens back when the times were tough. If not for printed feed sacks, how would we have survived? With groceries on credit, their store kept us alive until the autumn cotton was pulled and ginned and sold. These two feed sacks from olden days mean more to me than gold. § A Little Nip Much lasting damage has been done by folks with good intentions, mis-using words of scripture and adding new inventions. Some folks have spurned religion because the preachers yell that drinking any alcohol will send you straight to hell. But Jesus made, and even drank, the choicest brand of wine. Supporting the teetotalers, no scripture can I find. It says that elders and their wives should not drink very much, so “moderation in all things” is still the perfect touch. Of course, an alcoholic does better on the wagon but if we over-load it the tailgate would be draggin’! § A Matter of Attitude Limitations are not stop signs, just lovely short detours. They lead us on to better things; the choice is mine or yours. We can give up, decry the dark, turn back toward home and quit or grit our teeth and move ahead with brighter torches lit. Each up-hill mile makes muscles strong, clears vision once impaired, inspires ambition as we sweat and makes us glad we dared. The glory of the bright hilltop we cannot realize before the valley dark is crossed with hopeless, blinded eyes. Success is getting up again each time we try and fail and noticing the flowers that grow along the trail. Inspired by Helen Keller § A Positive Legacy One man can’t make a difference? Have you heard about the ark? Old Noah didn’t pass the buck with a negative remark! He could have said, “I don’t believe there’s such a thing as rain because I’ve never seen it. Folks will think I’ve gone insane! I’m just a lowly farmer; how can I build a boat? Wouldn’t balsa wood be lighter? Will cypress really float? I don’t have any modern tools; how about a power saw and a pair of good, tough leather gloves? My hands are getting raw. Exhaust fans would be mighty nice with animals on board. Are you sure the grub will last a year to feed this hungry horde?” He could have changed the blueprints to better suit his taste, but instead was prompted by his faith to start to work posthaste. For a hundred years he toiled and preached and oft was called a fool, obeyed the Lord as best he could in spite of ridicule. Because of Noah’s active faith, we’re all alive today, so when we’re called to service, how can we but obey? § A Treasury of Talents Has your day been filled with busy-ness,  employing helpful art, exploring possibilities,  giving all your heart? Have you really looked for hidden skills,  or buried them yet deeper? In Fibber’s closet you may find a talent that’s a keeper. We can spend our own abilities  being mean and selfish or waste away a lifetime  wanting someone else’s. § A Vote for Moderation There is an old adage  my Ma used to tell: “A job that’s worth doing  is worth doing well.” Perfectionists love it,  just their cup of tea, but what about lazy-type  folks such as me? We care not for spic-and-span  houses and such. Mere comfort and neatness  we like just as much. “Moderation in all things”  the Bible has said. So don’t let that perfect bent  bother your head. § Achievement I’m glad I learned in early years I couldn’t have it all, so disappointments in my life are rare. To work toward a worthwhile dream is the greatest fun of all, and success is something that I love to share. From growing pretty flowers to baking perfect pies, a challenge can excite, however small. For possible attainment, as hope within me lies, reality must take the chance to fall. And isn’t that what gives a job excitement every day - the risk that I will wind up on the ground? If I achieve success at all, there is no other way. To take the lumps will keep me well and sound. It can be nice receiving gifts but, on the whole, I find that earning fosters more appreciation. To work hard and achieve a thing is fuel for the mind, the best of all rewards in God’s creation. § Afflictions The “thorn in the flesh” which was served up to Paul, like a big slice of cold humble pie, was never described (with good reason, I think) so we could relate, you and I. With overpowering addictions, or a physical ailment acute, we think: Perhaps Paul had this problem, with a celibate lifestyle to boot! It helps us to know that we’re not alone, that somebody else understands, supplying the hope God will help us to cope, not leaving us wringing our hands. Support groups of all definitions, beginning at first with AA, say to those troubled souls, “Hey, we’ve been there, too, and will stand by your side all the way.” Like Paul, we can learn from affliction, and use it for good, if we will. There’s a rainbow awaiting behind that dark cloud, a pot of gold over the hill. § Answered Prayer I like the joke about the man in a flood, up on the roof who was waiting for a miracle, God’s sign of solemn proof. He spurned the boat and chopper, preferring his own way til the helpers left him one by one, and so he died that day. When he arrived in heaven, he asked God, “Where were you?” and God said, “In the people I sent, my will to do.” Much like that wishful thinker, we wrongly interject our worldly understanding instead of due respect. God often uses people for working out his plans. How many angels have you had to answer your demands? The dirty beggar on the street, the boss that you despise may be the source of blessings just dressed up in disguise. We sometimes grow impatient as God works out his plan but his wisdom and undying love prove best for fallen man. § Are We Really Meek and Lowly? It seems the church has missed the mark when dealing with the lost. We must present a pious front to others at all cost. No wonder modern Christians are hard to recognize in air-conditioned buildings to impress with pomp and size. We cover up with coat and tie the sins too dark to share, and paint a gay expression on the faces that we wear. We might could learn a lesson of meekness from AA, where honesty regarding sin helps drunkards find the way. “Confess your faults one to another” is how these people cope. They share their deepest feelings to offer strength and hope. Until we’re willing to admit our less than perfect state, too few lost sheep will find the way to heaven’s pearly gate. § Beyond Human Comprehension Believing that the Christ would rule with military might, disciples thought all hope was lost as they mourned his death that night. This tragedy of broken hearts and, worse yet, broken dreams hung on the mourners like a pall of dark despair, it seems. But on the day of Pentecost God made his presence known, turned tragedy to triumph with Satan overthrown. And we, like those disciples, don’t always understand how bad news in our daily lives may fit into his plan of working out all things for good, in spite of pain and woe, to offer full salvation because he loves us so. § Blessings in Disguise Can you recognize your blessings as they come from day to day? What looks like pure disaster may not be black, but grey. When cancer came into our lives we thought the end was near and yet there was no panic and very little fear. God gave us able doctors to test and cut and mend, who did their very level best, as for a special friend. Now forty years of aches and pains are gone as tho by magic. Remaining parts work better; it’s anything but tragic. Do you tend to sweat the little things, like crime and death and wars? You think the night is dark and drear? Look up and see the stars! § Blind Faith The mud Christ daubed  on sightless eyes might have offended us, but the blind man put  his faith to work without a major fuss. It must have been  a hassle to find Siloam’s Pool and he took the chance  that passers-by considered him a fool. Obedience is  sometimes tough, as steadfast saints can tell, but a soul who would be  helped by Christ is ruled by Christ as well. § Brainpower The act of writing poetry  is a fascinating game. How can the mind process the words,  no combo quite the same? How does it search the memory  to find the perfect rhyme, and match a cadence with the thought  to keep in perfect time? How can the exercise of use  expand its great potential? How awesome that its stores provide  everything essential. Computers can’t begin to match  the workings of the brain, although we’re glad to have them to help us ease the strain. § Bravery They call him brave - the man who fights for hate and lust and pride; who knows no fear of beast or knave. But braver than the brave is one who dreads the thought of death and pain, yet fights the endless war with fear for nothing more than lonely life to gain. § By Their Fruits You Shall Know Them The doctrine of salvation by the blood of Jesus Christ is the good news of the Gospel, our atoning sacrifice. Though our human understanding is as varied as our genes, we can know his constant washing keeps our souls and spirits clean. Love and joy and peace and patience, gentleness and self-control, all the rich fruits of the spirit now will be our worthy goal. These fruits in the lives of others help us know which path they trod as we journey on together with our common faith in God. § Chasing Butterflies I’ve wondered at the stilted phrase, “pursuit of happiness,” and picture in my mind a child so pure who chases lovely butterflies, all flighty and elusive; futility in motion, that’s for sure! The way to find true happiness is thinking first of others; then the butterfly will softly light and rest. Each day of service brings rewards beyond mere fame and fortune; the humble servant is supremely blest. To look for satisfaction in worldly wealth or splendor out in the future toward the great unknown negates the present moment, so fleeting, rare and precious, the only time we have to call our own. When you stop to smell the roses, pick a few to share with others, add rays of sunshine where the light is dim. If you see someone without a smile, give him one of yours; uplift the sad and lonely with a hymn. A little loving kindness comes free just for the giving, and reaps immense rewards to warm the heart. Two lives can be enriched by an act of selfless beauty: the butterfly that never will depart. § Christ or Crazy? When Jesus walked among the throngs  and taught good news of love was he just another human  or God’s son from above? Is he in a class with Buddha,  Confucius and the rest? An ordinary teacher  or the Son, supremely blest? A wise but worldly prophet  who healed the lame and sick? If he wasn’t who he claimed to be,  he was a lunatic! § Comparisons When worn with my jeans, the old tennis shoes  still didn’t look too bad, but next to the sparkling white new ones,  they seemed awful grungy and sad. Comparing our sins to our neighbor’s  may make them acceptably pale; the real test is Christ’s bright example,  which puts us to shame, without fail. And to think: all is cleansed and forgotten,  the gift of God’s grace sees us through. His blood circulates in the body  to keep our souls shiny and new. § Compliments Flattery I can live without, and some comes back to haunt. “You know, you’re the sexiest girl in school.”   Wonder what he could want? Not every complimenter  says exactly what they mean. “Oh, you’re so smart!” probably means,  “Will you write my English theme?” Perhaps the sweetest compliment  I’ve heard in quite awhile came from a man who asked my help  in a crowded grocery aisle. His bashful smile spoke volumes,  like the tail of a friendly pup. “I wouldn’t have bothered you,” he said,  “But you didn’t look stuck up er nuthin.” § Conforming to Nature “Make level paths for your feet, take only ways that are firm.” The writer of Proverbs sounds like a farmer, to come up with that country term. A walk on the hillside is risky, with rocks and turned ankles a factor, but have you once tried to maneuver the side of a hill on a tractor? To add to the slant made by nature, a terrace thrown up to stop washes can foster frustration like having a flat, only turned up a couple of notches. As gravity tugs the load downward and plows take their toll on the crop, a novice knows nothing of using one brake, the sliding disaster to stop. Our lives, like the wife-driven tractor, can slip down the hillside to ruin unless we will use the brake of God’s word to monitor what we are doing. Experience garnering wisdom becomes like the tractor so big that it rides on the top of the terrace and straddles both sides with its rig. § Cooking Lesson (From Art Linkletter’s show, “House Party”) “What can you cook?” he asked the kids; they all had answers cute. One lassie gave a recipe nobody can refute. “I watched my Mama cooking toast,” she said beneath a frown. “You cook it til it’s black and then you scrape it til it’s brown.” § Count Your Blessings When you count your blessings every day,  don’t forget to pay your dues on little things along the way,  like comfy modern shoes. In olden times a shoe was built  to work on either foot, and now our biggest worry  is how the style may look. My old hard-working Mama  had bunions, yes, and corns. She cut holes in her hoeing shoes  when they were old and worn. The holes let in the sand and grit,  more misery and abuse. So when you say your prayers tonight,  give thanks for comfy shoes. § Counting Blessings Just waking up each morning to yet another day is something that I’m thankful for when I take time to pray. A loving husband welcomes me with tender, open arms; old age has not diminished his multitude of charms. I’m thankful for a reason to wake to the alarm, a job to use my energies since we have left the farm. It gives me satisfaction to serve my fellow man and pays enough to guarantee some bacon in the pan. I thank God for the area where we choose to reside, a country and a city in which we take much pride. For pure, good tasting water, a prayer of thanks I say, and even for the wind that blows the cursed smog away. No greater blessing could we have than happy, healthy kids, the right to visit when we choose, as no in-law forbids. Our grandkids are the cutest, smartest people you could know and bring an added zest to our relations as they grow. No small appreciation goes for modern medicine, the greatest time in history since God created man. Appliances to make our work so easy are a boon, technology that promises they’ll be outdated soon. The life we have I wouldn’t trade for any earthly thing, no money or position, no castle for a king. Of all our many blessings, my favorite by far is to snuggle up in bed at night like two spoons in a drawer. § Country Spring An early breeze of summer  blows soft across my bed. The eastern sky becomes alive  in shades of mauve and red. Birds twitter in the greening trees  to welcome day anew. Young cotton sprouts peek out and gently  soak up morning dew. Fresh tracks of quail and deer and coon  attest to neighbors rife whose constance of variety  produce the spice of life. The dog's bark warns of rattlesnake  ensconced among the vines; three feet away, his slithery mate  around a shrub entwines. New life bursts forth on every hand,  excitement fills the air. Twin calves nuzzle their mother,  enfolded in her care. In retrospect I still can sense  the joy in everything; my memory has stored the sights  and sounds of country spring. § Creation or Accident? Did you ever doubt that God exists?   Is evolution true? Were humans just an accident  from some primordial goo? Consider for a moment  the common human hand, so intricate, yet tough and strong,  obeying each command. Its touch can feel the difference  between one page and two or communicate to a distraught child,  “I think the world of you!” Each finger has a purpose,  with muscles, veins and skin to hold the bones together,  a covering so thin. It can wield a nine pound hammer  or stitch a tiny heart as it rotates on the flexing wrist,  an awesome, vital part. In all attempts of science  to make a working hand, their stores of knowledge fall far short,  so I don’t understand how accidents evolve such things  with no creator’s plan and all combine somehow to make  a complicated man. § Dads What is it about a new baby that melts a dad’s tough, macho heart? He falls like a brick for a lop-sided grin, and teardrops can tear him apart. With her hand in his, she can lead him down paths he had not dared before, discovering well-springs o’erflowing with joyful thanksgiving galore. No sacrifice is overwhelming, no challenge too great for a dad. He slays dreadful dragons un-numbered, attempting to keep her heart glad. So it shouldn’t really surprise us that as she goes out on a date, comparison with her old Daddy is important when choosing a mate. Is he generous, kindly and humble? Dependable, honest and true? Can his gentle strength comfort another? Hard-working and good-looking, too? A proud Daddy keeps right on trying as aging and ills he defies but can’t quite believe he ever has earned the love that he sees in her eyes. § Discipline No kid deserves a beating, though a little stinging switch or a swat to get attention may just stop that sassy itch. There’s a line to draw when discipline turns into child abuse but a parent has to straighten out a child who is obtuse. We don’t do them any favors by allowing too much rein. The discipline we teach in youth will only be their gain. Most of the folks in prison had no one to guide them right; abused, perhaps neglected, they only learned to fight. “Responsible” is not a word they often understand; no discipline learned early from a loving parent’s hand. Real self-respect is not achieved by flattery of men but must be earned the hard way, by tough self-discipline. § Don’t Believe It! Familiarity breeds contempt?  You don’t know beans about it! Love thrives on the familiar;  we couldn’t do without it. The more familiar we become  with children as they grow, the more we learn to love them,  as all good parents know. A lasting marriage will depend  on knowing a partner’s traits, overlooking the bad, encouraging good,  becoming forgiving mates. So don’t believe everything you hear  and only half you see. That was Mama’s favorite saying  and it’s good enough for me. § Eighteen Wheelers People cuss the lowly trucker, driving like he owns the road, slow to start and slow to stop, hauling such a heavy load. Takes a mile to turn a corner, crowds the Wal-Mart parking lot, but what would we do without him? Our whole life would go to pot! From groceries to computers, everything we eat and use comes in trucks from here and yonder, even letters with the news. Give this lonely motored nomad time and space to do his thing. Offer him a smile and “howdy,” courtesy as for a king. Although roads can’t last forever with the weight of eighteen wheels, this is just the price of progress bringing us our Christmas meals. § Endurance There’s nature’s laws and Murphy’s law and laws of church and state. Some laws we can contend with  and some we love to hate. Of all the weird, unwritten laws,  here’s one that makes us moan: The kids must make ungodly noise  when Mama’s on the phone. If, at day’s end, you’ve done your best,  each problem’s cause addressing, pray, “Lord, grant me the patience  to just endure my blessings.” § Every Farmer Knows There’s nothing like the smell of earth,  fresh turned behind the plow with its promise of new life to come,  that age-old solemn vow. The work of lowly earthworms  renews the time-worn sod, arranging ageless atoms,  created once by God. The farmer is a partner,  just one link in the chain, the humble overseer  who sows and prays for rain. It takes a deep abiding faith  to farm year after year, to trust the providence of God  for a life he holds so dear. He knows his limitations,  has a true sense of his worth. It is only right and fitting  that the meek inherit the earth. § Exercise One lesson scientists have learned from their work in biosphere: There are no easy answers like we prefer to hear. Without the normal force of wind to exercise the trees, they soon collapse upon themselves, much worse than plant disease. We, too, must have a challenge to exercise our minds, to make our bodies healthy and keeps our wills in line. Perhaps the smallish trials just strengthen up our grit so that we don’t give up the fight when really big ones hit. As you bend over backward, some grouchy nut to please, give thanks for winds that keep us strong, like Corrie ten Boom’s fleas. § Faith and Peace Is your life a constant struggle with dark fear and doubt and dread? Do you wonder if disaster waits upon the road ahead? God can give you reassurance, keep your head above the storm, wants to hold you to his bosom where a soul stays safe and warm. There each day has special blessings if your attitude is right; thankful hearts find much excitement looking forward to the night. Like a child awaiting Christmas, “future” promises surprise, with assurance from the Giver that his loving choice is wise. Even when we stray and wander from the safe and cozy nest, He waits patiently and watches, always offering sweet rest, not expecting perfect children, perfect worship, perfect love; His perfection bought forgiveness and eternal life above. § Father’s Rules God didn’t send a blight like AIDS to punish anyone nor did he give the “thou shalt nots” just to spoil our fun. He knows the consequences of everything we do and gave commandments to prevent hard knocks for me and you. The closer we stick to his rules, the happier we’ll be, with fewer confrontations, less stress, more love, you see. God hates all sin because he knows it brings his children harm and wants to keep us ‘neath his wings where we’ll be safe and warm. § Forsaking the Assembly Attending Sunday worship: Is it killing time til lunch, just a necessary ritual to get your score card punched? Do you sometimes get the feeling that God will strike you blind if you don’t pay close attention, leave the cares of life behind? “Forsaking not” has come to mean “Don’t miss a single day,” but I doubt if that’s exactly what he meant to say. “Forsaking” speaks of habit, like abandoning a mate, withdrawing all emotion, becoming an ingrate. Close kinship with the brethren builds faith and firm resolve, forms an axis for our worship around which all hopes revolve. As a family we function, each contributing his part, with the yoke of shared dependence strengthening the mind and heart. § Friendship and Freedom There is a great saying of old, an apple, perhaps, of pure gold: Some folks spend money they don’t likely have to buy things they don’t rightly need to impress other people they don’t even like (is that the description of greed?) who couldn’t care less, and perhaps do the same, like a crazy dog chasing his tail. If this is pursuit of acceptance or love, it’s bound, like a cheap watch , to fail. It may produce jealousy, envy or spite, or a well-deserved kick in the rump. Get real; would you actually want for a friend that impressive ego, Donald Trump? Thank God, whose advice we can trust, that our happiness does not depend on money or talent or beauty or brains to earn us the love of a friend. Give freely of self to another, just listen and comfort and care; then friendship will come like a soft, cooling breeze, as free and refreshing as air. § Fruits of the Spirit             God gives divine instruction that will improve our lives if, one by one, we add the works with which our faith survives. To faith we must add goodness and knowledge of God’s word. The self-control we practice divides us from the herd. Then next comes perseverance in trials as we grow, and a mind controlled by godliness that makes our small light glow. In brotherly kindness day by day, our hearts of tenderness will show the love and grace of God, un-numbered lives to bless. He says that if we do these things we surely will not fall. Then we can enter heaven’s gate, the greatest gift of all. § Fun or Happiness? It seems that most folks in this land just live for Friday night to spend the week’s small paycheck and get a little tight. They look for happiness at bars or a sleazy motel room. If they have to face reality, it means impending doom. Are “fun” and “happiness” the same? I hardly think ‘tis so. Hard work can bring much happiness and blessings, don’t you know? To learn a craft and do your best at anything you try brings self-respect, contentment, the things that satisfy. Soon you begin to like yourself, are comfortable alone and happiness comes from within, does not depend upon a crowd of rowdy boozers or money, fun and fame. The prize is not in winning, but how you play the game. § Getting in Gear I’ve heard it said, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.” The failures of exalted plans we just don’t like to mention. How many times in younger days, with cooking skills so few, I sat down with some recipes to learn what I should do. “The Joy of Cooking” was the book that I perused, enthused, then made the same old bread and beans, good recipes unused. I’ve spent time studying God’s word a book which I hold dear, just revving up my motor; now it’s time to get in gear. § Glad to Be Old I grunt and groan with aches and pains, decry Alzheimer’s steady gains, but have been quite surprised to find that old age has been more than kind. With exercise and lots of pills to help prevent excessive ills, strong bones and muscles keep me fit if I resist the urge to sit. To exercise my aging brain, head off much undue stress and strain, a crossword puzzle fits the bill-- and writing, when there’s time to kill. Appreciation seems to be the necessary golden key to breed contentment in my life, avoid speed bumps and needless strife. Faith offers hope that God’s sweet grace will give me strength when I must face the day when roads are not so smooth, when the target always seems to move. A few short hours every day are quite enough for work and play; no time required to fume and fret, just thank the Lord I’m not dead yet! § Go with the Flow Resisting change is natural, or so it seems to me. I battle with it daily and lose, as you can see. The subtle signs of aging increase as years go by, but maybe wisdom balances the scales before we die. Change can be good, as children grow and yearn to leave the nest; as hard as parents fight it, they know that this is best. Adapting is an exercise that helps us stronger grow, develops unknown talents, as all good farmers know. “Go with the flow” is good advice, prevents unneeded stress, but paddling upriver is exciting, none the less. § God Lives!  All is Well God’s golden sun gilds morning mist across the grassy dell to greet the early riser, announcing “All is well!” Dew-laden roses waft their scent to every passerby as nature seems to worship creator God on high. The mourning dove calls softly, sweet music for the soul; a horned toad in the ant bed has reached his breakfast goal. As neighbor visits neighbor to help in any way, (in spite of negative reports) there’s good news every day. § Godly Government The ten commandments God gave Moses didn’t say it all. There were many laws of every ilk to keep Jews on the ball. He organized their government and civilized their clan, a monumental Godly job impossible for man. He gave them rules for healthy lives, both physical and mental that focused on the attitude of being kind and gentle. Religion and affairs of state were guided from above to introduce the world to the healing art of love. It’s almost unbelievable- the taxes that were spent, each family required to pay only ten percent! § God’s Banquet The banquet of God’s holy word  can furnish famished man with all needs for digesting  the great salvation plan. It isn’t just a big buffet from which to pick and choose but a casserole, a perfect blend,  where all the flavors fuse. To have a balanced diet  requires a daily zeal of gathering ingredients  that go to make a meal. If we rely on meat alone  or broccoli or pears our soul will soon be sickly  with fractures here and there. In God’s own pantry are the stores  to answer any question and exercise to keep us fit  will also aid digestion. § God’s Wisdom To make a perfect human from a tiny egg and sperm, or to nurture life with rain drops, or produce rich soil with worms is the work of a Creator who we can’t understand. His wisdom is beyond our grasp, our fate is in his hand. Our human minds would like to know how he can take the bad and turn it into something good, although we may be sad. The devil cannot best him no matter how he tries. His trials only strengthen us when we ignore his lies. All thanks to our Creator God who cares for every soul. To serve him and adore him should always be our goal. § God’s Wondrous Wisdom A lovely morn in springtime, the crimson rose’s bloom, may make us wish to never see a day of clouds and gloom. But the lovely plants depend on rain and snow and icy wind to set the growing cycle in motion once again. Although we wish for stress-free lives with money and to spare, protesting with a vengeance that life just isn’t fair, a challenge means excitement, builds strength and fortitude. To overcome an obstacle can change our attitude. Thank God, who often overrules our selfishness and greed. Instead of what we think we want, he gives us what we need. § Growing Old With Grace Apologies for growing old  are quite unnecessary. Your many years should make you feel  extraordinary. All travel down that same long road;  we’re just at different mileposts. And some may never reach the goal,  though giving life their utmost. Alternatives to aging  are not to be desired but growing old with style and grace  is very much admired. God gives a silver crown of hair  to be a source of pride and years of answered prayer to build  contentment deep inside. To kick against the traces  can only cause us pain; accepting life’s vicissitudes  should be a world of gain. § Happy Fiftieth, Weldon and Helen! A Childress gal named Helen Brown arrived in Abilene and met the cutest fellow that she had ever seen. His proper name was Weldon Hayes, but folks there called him “Gabby” for he was such a talker that his jowls were long and flabby. At ACC book learning, they spent some happy years, were wed and had three children who brought more joy than tears. Back home, they helped her daddy in his store for auto parts, and served the church at varied jobs and won the people’s hearts. For funerals and weddings, Helen called up volunteers, and Weldon led the singing as one of his careers. Though late at getting started, grandparents they became, and soon excelled at scoring in this exciting game. Retirement brought adventure, as on the road they went to see the sights and scattered friends, each trip a big event. Now fifty years have come and gone, some clouds and stormy weather, but through it all, the bonds are strong that hold these two together. § Happy Is as Happy Does I studied the Beatitudes  of Jesus in the Bible for years before I really understood that he was offering a way  for happiness on earth, not just hereafter if we’re always good. Becoming more like Jesus  should be our main concern, adopting humble virtues for our own. Relationships will blossom  before our very eyes, with possibilities we’ve never known. To share ourselves by word and deed  is tough, but so exciting; the process of humility is slow. If we can’t find joy right here  in serving fellow men, then heaven would not be  the place to go. § Health Foods Did you ever wonder how Mama knew so much about keeping us fed? From “roughage” like stewed prunes and oatmeal  to red beans and crusty cornbread. The teachers said we were malnourished  without marbled meat every day but my growth wasn’t stunted, I reckon,  nor brain cells begun to decay. NOW oatmeal and beans are in fashion  and red meat is shunned like the plague. If it tastes good it’s likely bad for you,  tho the rules about eggs now are vague. So watch out for salt and cholesterol  and exercise daily with zest. No hot-dogs or T-bones or candy; eat twigs and your life will be blest. § Heart Healthy When a person ceases growing, then he slowly starts to die, true of body, mind and soul since Eve believed old Satan’s lie. We can see the body sagging, burdened with the weight of years and likewise, the mind can weaken with a load of guilt and fears. Faith in God will ease the burden if we also will obey all the rules that make us happy, help someone along the way. Minds and souls can grow forever with the proper exercise. Storing God’s word in our heart will make us happy, strong and wise. § Heavenly Prescription Our lives were stained with sin; no way could we begin to cure diseased and broken, poisoned souls. The devil laughed with glee, our misery to see, dosed us on sugar pills and donut holes. Our God and Great Physician has offered a prescription for blessed life here and eternally. If we follow very close, take every daily dose, miraculous and swift the cure will be. The prescription note, we find, by Jesus Christ was signed in drops of blood he shed on Calvary. For love he paid the cost; a sinless life was lost to buy an antidote for you and me. § Heavenly Recipe When God cooks up a marriage,  he seasons it with spice, although the main ingredients  are plain, like beans and rice. Respect and courtesy to taste,  a good place to begin; slow cooking makes it tender,  with friendship basted in. Some honey sweetens up the mix,  the yeast of love for leaven. Good marriage is an appetizer,  earth’s tidbit of heaven. § Heaven’s Flowers We may admire a lovely girl with rosy cheeks and golden curl but God says when this life is done and there is no more earth or sun we’ll have a form beyond compare, resplendent in his glory there. Our earthly form is like a seed fulfilling only human need. At resurrection we’ll become a lovely bloom, perhaps a mum, a canna or a tulip fair that once were shapeless bulbs so bare. New beauty we can’t contemplate is ours beyond the pearly gate. No homely girl will hide her face; all win the prize in heaven’s race. No need for make-up, combs or baths, just leisure strolls down golden paths. Won’t you prepare to go with me where life eternal comes for free? § Human Folly It’s a mystery why humans want to complicate religion with added rules and fancy dress and pagan superstition. Christ simplified our worship, trimmed right down to the bone, with remembrance of the price he paid, our sins thus to atone. To sing and pray and hear his word needs no cathedral grand, no pope or priest to intercede for blessings from God’s hand. Humility he asks of us, a servant’s attitude, conforming our own selfish wills to the pattern he issued. The cornerstone of Christian faith, our hope for paradise, is Peter’s good confession that Jesus is the Christ. Keys of the kingdom that he gave the apostles to impart are found within his Holy Word: obedience from the heart. His rules are plain and simple, will satisfy our thirst, and he says that if we add to them, we’ll surely be accursed. § Husbands He does not feel superior, the husband who succeeds; is naturally protective, desires to meet her needs. He wants an active partner to journey by his side, not walking in his shadow - a lowly servant/bride. He leads by good example, gives all his strength, times two, with honest praise to warm a heart when honest praise is due. He walks a thin and fragile wire between his wife and mother, to show respect that’s owed to one while cleaving to the other. Observant, empathetic and humble to the bone, a husband wise and loving never has to stand alone. § Idiosyncrasies People are funny; have you noticed that fact? Our idiosyncrasies run out of whack. A lady who wouldn’t get close to a snake plays golf out in lightening, huge chances to take. Unlikely to wear a seat belt on a bet, she runs to the cellar from a tornado’s threat; piles food on her plate like calories are free and stirs in some saccharin to sweeten her tea; drives around til she finds a close parking space then walks on the treadmill at a breathtaking pace. I could go on and on but you get my drift. If you ask if I’m guilty, I’m pleading the fifth! § I’ll Have It Made If I ever reach the age of six  I’ll get to start first grade and learn to read and write and count; boy, then I’ll have it made! I’ll soon be turning sixteen,  the day for which I’ve prayed when I can drive the car to school  and then I’ll have it made.  The wedding bells are ringing,  “Here Come the Bride” is played. I’m queen of my own domicile  and now I’ll have it made. I’m up all night a-rocking,  my tender nerves are frayed. The baby soon will sleep til dawn  and then I’ll have it made. I yearn for graduation,  just hope he makes the grade. He’ll soon be out there on his own  and then I’ll have it made. I hope he finds the perfect mate  before my dreams can fade. My worries will be over  and then I’ll have it made. The easy life is just ahead;  a hammock in the shade is waiting for retirement  and then I’ll have it made. When time has come for death to call  I hope I’m not afraid ‘cause when I get to heaven  I know I’ll have it made. § In Pursuit of Joy Do you find no joy in daily life? Can’t keep your head above the strife? Words cut your heart just like a knife? There’s hope. Just count your blessings one by one and pretty soon you’ll see the sun; the best has only just begun. Give thanks. Thanksgiving is food for your soul when ego famine takes its toll; self-confidence is on a roll. Look up. Give God the praise for everything; His love will make your heart to sing and put your worries on the wing. Lo, joy! § Individuality I’m wary of the man who says  he wouldn’t date a woman who opens up her car door for herself. What other hair-brained rules will he  think up for her, I wonder- display her helpless body on a shelf? The olden days when heavy doors  required a manly muscle have gone the way of armor, lance and moat. So chivalry must shift its gears  and get on with the program or generations hence will miss the boat. I’m not a feminist, don’t have a gripe about the gender, and love a man with sensitivity. The war between the sexes  isn’t hot on my agenda but common sense should rule, it seems to me. A woman may become adept  with socket wrench or hammer; some fathers are much better with the kids. Out-dated pigeon-holes are hardly apt for modern humans; the cut-and-dried old rules are on the skids. Individuality fosters productivity! § Inspiration or Perspiration? I wish I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard, “I’d give ANYTHING to play piano like you.” Anything except PRACTICE, they might as well add, if they want to be honest and true. For talent is a baby who must be fed for growth and exercised to make the muscles strong. He bears but small resemblance to the man he can become, but denying his existence is dead wrong! “I don’t have any talent”, is the biggest kind of lie. “I’m afraid to fail” is what they really mean. Success involves much falling down and getting up again for any kind of progress to be seen. So many baby talents have slowly starved to death for lack of nurture in that birthing year. The man who buried his talent had even that taken away when he succumbed to paralyzing fear. §      It's In The Genes My parents gave me everything  I needed to survive and so much more for happiness  to breed and come alive. From Mama came my love of books  and playing 'round with words. We didn't fit the normal mold  and might have been called nerds. They say I look a lot like her,  especially her size. High Indian cheekbones are our lot  with brown hair and brown eyes. An inborn fascination  for horses came from Dad. To learn their personality was a special knack he had. Both had a love for music  and shared that love with me. They taught me early how to work,  that nothing comes for free. The genes that I inherited,  the lessons that I learned are great heirlooms to cherish  as history's page is turned. § Judging Our Abilities One talent we all have in common is assessing our own gifts innate. When we don’t follow nature’s life pattern, we are doomed to an unhappy fate. If advisors had mapped out my future, a career down in Nashville was first, or maybe some basketball coaching, or teaching, which would have been worse. Some thought I was destined for speaking, a female Newt Gingrich, perhaps. To choose a career as a farm wife showed signs of sure mental collapse. Though singing and playing piano create much excitement and joy, they cannot compare to emotion evoked by the birth of that first baby boy. I’ll never forget the inordinate thrill of a 60-point basketball game, but to have five successful, compassionate kids puts that minor trifle to shame. So march to your own special drummer, to God-given talents be true. Well-meaning advisors are useful , but ability’s best judge is you. § Judgment Don't be so fast to judge the folks  whose shoes you cannot wear. They need, instead, a helping hand, their heavy cross to bear. Have you ever known the singular pain  of a sudden panic attack? Well, that may be a thorn in the side of that guy who sits at the back. You make your jokes to shame us,  the ones who occasionally nod but nobody knows the reason,  none but the doctor and God. Not all have talent to stand and speak  in a public sort of way and yet their acts and kindly words  teach folks they meet each day. The Golden Rule is simple to quote  but not so easy to do and judging each other just seems to fit  like the run-down, well-worn shoe. § Just a Little White Lie While trying to get off the hook, you tell a little lie. What will it hurt just this one time? Nobody’s gonna die. Destroy a reputation? Well, that’s no never-mind. As long as it’s not harming you, who says you must be kind? But lies will wreak their havoc, regardless of your aim and throwing mud will soil your hands; real life is not a game. If you are caught in that white lie, (and surely you will be) you cannot be relied on, as all the world will see. “His word’s his bond,” they used to say, but that old trust is gone. Your reputation was your wealth; you’ve now destroyed your own. § Last Will and Testament The Gospel is the latest will that God has left on earth, a guide for Christians til the end, of rich, eternal worth. He says don’t mix the old and new; to try is but to fail, impossible to understand, like reading thru a veil. The old law given to the Jews  was to prepare a race for the coming of the Savior, the expression of God’s grace. Those laws were nailed upon the cross, all prophesy fulfilled, and now it is our teacher, to learn from, if we will. We learn about the love of God, his providence and care, his willingness to oft forgive, our heavy burdens bear. We see how unrepentant folks were cut off from their God and others were forgiven much as the narrow road they trod. If we divide the word aright, obey as best we can, we find our lives supremely blest according to his plan. § Laws of Nature The moral laws we live with are just as strong and real as the laws of Mother nature; it’s all a package deal. God isn’t waiting in the dark to strike the sinner lame but when the rules are broken, we suffer just the same. When we’re forgiven of our sin by God’s great providence it doesn’t change the natural law; there’s still a consequence. Adultery will hurt us all, both innocent and guilty. A hateful tongue can wound a soul and leave us feeling filthy. You cannot hide from nature’s laws; your sin will find you out. God’s word protects us from ourselves, what rules are all about. § Leadership God made the husband the head of the wife  in the same identical way that Christ is the head of his body, the church.   But how is that? you say. Christ leads by giving of himself  and being a servant to all, not lording it over the weaker class  or tempting us to fall. His rules are given for our own good,  to guide us to happiness. A husband lovingly serving his wife  is doubly, richly blest. As Christ gladly gave us all that he had, the good husband does the same, giving his time, his goods and himself  to the one who bears his name. § Learning Remember how much fun we had while learning how to swim? The challenge kept us coming back for more. There was no goal of great import, just joy beyond compare: a wet, exciting new world to explore. Some of my greatest memories have been involved with learning. To ride a bike or plunk piano tunes were other-worldly pleasures rich as whipped cream on peach cobbler, adventure not to be forgotten soon. The whole process of marriage, raising kids, and growing older proves education never has to end. If life gets boring, something’s wrong; your mind needs new horizons, a puzzle that you can’t quite comprehend. I still like swimming, riding bikes and playing the piano, but learning is my favorite exercise. It’s when I think I know it all that things get out of kilter. Surprise!  It’s time to psychoanalyze. § Lessons of Life I have learned a few things through the years, and to these aged eyes, it appears that experience gained is the best kind of school, though sometimes we earn it with tears. I has been surprising to see that awesome things happen to me in spite of my great lack of knowledge, where experts might all disagree. They say that your life will unwind unless a long-range plan you find. Just being a wife and a mother will drive you right out of your mind. But I played the whole thing by ear without a worry or fear; found the right man to father my children, and the road was all downhill from here. If fate beckoned, I did not know it, nor dreamed that I might be a poet, or gaze from the summit of Sandia Peak at my home in the foothills below it. Beware of the experts who say that the only right way is their way. It’s not in a human to guide his own steps; God’s map will not lead us astray. § Let This Cup Pass Do you think Jesus chickened out  and prayed he wouldn’t die? Or was there something else involved,  seen with a doctor’s eye? To ask a selfish prayer like this  would surely be a sin, which was impossible for him  and still atonement win. The cup he prayed to pass could be  an illness, yes, a threat that he might die before the time  to pay our sinful debt. “Unto the point of death” his soul  with sorrow was o’ercome and sweating blood, he prayed to live  til on the cross he hung. Some people have a problem where the blood becomes too thin, and just like perspiration, it seeps out through their skin. The beating of the prisoner oft caused a quick demise before the hanging came about, which should be no surprise. He told impulsive Peter, whose sword was sharp and fast, that the Father would send angels  to the rescue if he asked. When soldiers came, he gave no sign  of fear or dread or woe. He gladly suffered much abuse  because he loved us so. I can’t believe that his impassioned  selfless cry to God could have been answered any way  than with a knowing nod. § Life is Tough The first thing to learn is that life is not fair; if so, we would all have controllable hair and legs the same length and budgets that balance, and all would enjoy the same sort of challenge. Acceptance of nature, who may throw us curves, is a step toward wisdom and much calmer nerves. God gives us the strength to face every trial unless we determine to live with denial. If we kick at the cactus that gets in the way we’ll be pulling thorns ‘til our dying day. § Life’s Highway I started on a journey,  expectant as a child, accepting every challenge,  excited all the while. But then I took a backward glance  and lost the road ahead. The old home place still beckoned,  the trip became a dread. There looms a signpost just for me:  “Happiness is not in always getting what you want,  but wanting what you’ve got.” § Little Things We like to call them “little things”, our blessings every day that can’t be bought with money, where fame does not hold sway: The touch of gentle, loving hands, the very air we breathe, the beauty of creation, the grace that we receive. Warm sun and rain producing life, good health that we enjoy we sometimes take for granted, our sanity destroy. How often do we offer thanks as we lie down to rest for our freedom bought with blood and tears, a country richly blest? True friends and smiles and family, the list goes on and on, the blessings that we seldom count til one day they are gone. § Looking Back Happy memories flood the senses from infancy through childhood in a wonderland of love and joy replete. Teenage years of active crazies, challenges and dreams accomplished, experiencing both winning and defeat. Love and marriage, years of learning, making ends meet, raising children, mixing happiness and work and pain and strife. Yet the best time is the present; too much looking back is always a sad and risky way to walk through life. § Lovers You know the guy who thinks that he’s  God’s gift to womankind, who calls himself a lover,  leaving broken hearts behind. His sexploits are the only way he measures his own worth. His number here is legion,  despoiling all the earth. The real and honest lover  has no macho point to prove. Respect for women shows in every word and every move. He chooses carefully the one  true mate to be his wife and strives to make her happy  each day throughout their life. One man, one woman is the plan  God gave so long ago. The rules are still the same today,  the best plan that we know. Its blessings multiply with time,  old age just proves the test. In love and every phase of life  God’s way is always best. § Love’s Test It’s a foregone conclusion that you will be  forever and ever in love. The feelings you have could never abate,  you’ll swear by the stars above. But passions ebb and flow in time  as sunshine follows rain. Do you love with the love commanded by Christ  which serves when feelings wane? When jealousy rears its ugly head,  accusing you of sin, what kind of passion will ensue?   Will you still love him then? When she seems cool to your advance  time after time on cue, do you ask, "Can I help with the kids awhile?" or grumble, “What’s eating you?” She isn’t always loveable, he’s sometimes downright rude. It takes a will of iron to keep  that loving attitude. Christ’s love is not a feeling,  but doing what we can to always think of others first  and serve our fellow man. Accentuate the positive,  praise him each chance you get. He’ll love you more than ever  and you’ll have no regrets. § Marvels of Aging Teenagers would be jealous if they knew the awful truth: Old age has better things in store than beauty, wealth or youth. Experience brings wisdom,  perspectives grow and change . Contentment slowly creeps within as thoughts are rearranged. With wisdom comes the knowledge that we’ll never know it all, that we only need stay young at heart to really have a ball, that youth and sex and silly fun are not synonymous, that wrinkles, ills, and even death will come to all of us. Also with wisdom often comes humility we need to care for others as we ought, less envy, pride and greed. Perhaps there is good reason that teens feel bullet-proof, and dread the thought of growing old with snow upon the roof. It makes late years the sweeter, each day a new surprise, to see the best is saved for last, too seldom emphasized. § Mature Love The young think they invented love  and have exclusive rights; old folks just watch TV and eat  to fill their lonely nights. They couldn’t know that nurtured love  will not grow stale and die; no use to tell them of the joys  that grow as years go by. If eros sometimes starts to flag,  agape takes a turn to keep the lovelight shining, as they perhaps will learn. A lot of work and sacrifice  will make a marriage last. You overlook the negative,  forget sins of the past. Soon you’ll remember only  how great your lover is. Each year brings sweeter blessings,  your heart attuned to his. God gives the rules for happiness  and looks for ways, it seems, to multiply maturing love  beyond your wildest dreams. § Merry Christmas The yuletide decorations that mean the most to me are not the fireside stockings or the twinkling Christmas tree. The greeting cards hung up with care, like a row of jolly friends, depict the warmth of hearts,  on which successful life depends. The gift Christ gave is love and peace to share the whole year through. Important people in our lives are part of Christmas, too. § Mind Over Matter A facade of fat and wrinkles hides the spirit of my youth; a child lives in my body, a nut, to tell the truth. The woman in the mirror is just a homely stranger. The kid inside is fearless, takes dares and scoffs at danger. My mind has aged not in the least, retains its healthy balance. The thought of death is not a dread, just a new and welcome challenge. § Miracles “A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a miraculous sign,” said Jesus many years ago, but it fits this age just fine. So oft we hear in news reports about a statue weeping and people thronging to the site, some blessed power seeking. It’s sad when superstition gets mixed in with religion, confusion of believers causing such strife and division. White magic asks for favors, as tho God owes us such, not satisfied with mercy, his soft soul-saving touch. Our hope is in his precious blood forgiving every sin. No miracle is needed to bring us peace within. § Money Problems Money is the root of all evil? No, that’s not what he said. Although it may make us poor folks feel righteous, that misquote can  mess up our heads. It’s the love of money, not just having money, that causes us humans much pain. To dream that more riches would cure all our ills is to flush precious time down the drain.  Are you happier than before you got that last raise? Well, then, how much would it take? Appreciation for what you have puts the icing on the cake. Have you noticed the lottery winners whose lives are in total chaos? Instead of a wonderful blessing, it becomes an albatross. Everybody wants a hand-out, strangers, family and friends, like a bunch of greedy vultures, til the bankruptcy lawyer wins. If your budget is such that too much month is left at the end of the money, what makes you think better management skills would appear like a magic bunny? It has long been known by wiser folks that happiness comes not from riches, but it’s hard to teach reality to a kid who’s too big for his britches. § Morning Prayer Lord Jesus, walk close by my side and keep me safe today. Speak to my heart your words of love that I may never stray. Help me to guard my spirit from too much legalese, that love will guide my every step, the Father’s will to please. Give me more wisdom to discern, compassion overflowing, that I may be your hands and feet, your righteous mercy showing. Replace with your humility my prideful, selfish way that, from within, your light will shine to guide the lost, I pray. § Mysteries It’s a mystery why it feels so good to hold a lover’s hand or see a smile upon his face or be allowed to share his space or try his thoughts to understand. It’s a mystery what a baby does to a scatterbrained young dad. It changes his perception and right after the conception, he spreads the tidings glad. It’s a mystery why God sent his son for the likes of you and me and had him die upon the cross. To understand, I’m at a loss, but look, I’ve been set free! § Nature Adapts The farmer’s bane has always been the dratted careless-weed which slowly chokes out cotton plants, drinks moisture that they need. It can be cooked, when very young, to feed a hungry brood; goes good with beans and cornbread, could almost be called food. And lately I have also found that mowing oft enough will make it hunker to the ground like spreading viney stuff, keeps goat-head seeds and grassburs from sprouting in the yard where I don’t choose to water grass, unwanted growth retard. But grassburs learned the secret, too, crouch low beneath the blade, grow stickers right down in the dirt, my neat lawn to invade. § Nature’s Musical Rolling thunder is the timpani in nature’s serenade, accompanied by strings and horns, our senses to invade. The ripple of a mountain stream, a breeze that whispers low, the mournful cry of mating doves, like an A string ‘neath the bow, combine and harmonize their tunes for a concert so divine that God must pause and listen as the notes all intertwine. A far-off coyote’s “yip-yip-yip” when sun and skyline meet relax the weary laborer, the restful night to greet. Hoot owls venture forth at dusk to add their lovely bass, and insects chirrup cradlesongs as darkness slows the pace. No philharmonic orchestra, no violin or flute makes music quite like nature’s own; there is no substitute. § Obedient Faith Through Christ’s atonement on the cross and then his resurrection, the ultimate was given for our complete salvation. The Gospel which he gave us commands that we repent, confessing that he came from God by whom the Son was sent. It says we’re saved by preaching, baptism and endurance, with hope, obedience and love plus hardy perseverance, renunciation of the world, forsaking human will, a working faith like Noah’s, our special niche to fill. As long as we walk in the Light, led by his hand of love, we will not stray far from the path that leads to heaven above. § Our Awesome God No words there be which can describe  the awesome God of love and futile are attempts to count  his blessings from above. Creation is his handiwork,  with humans at the top but after that, he didn’t just  sit on his hands and stop. He gave instructions in his word  to tell us how to live and sent his only son to die,  our failures to forgive. The law he gave to Moses  was nailed upon the cross and the probate of his final will  was done at Pentecost. It offers everything we need  to be wise and content but sometimes we need hindsight  to see just what was meant. It says that if we love him,  we must obey his will and in the process somehow find  our greatest needs fulfilled. § Outlook on Aging It’s nice to know that life keeps changing; nothing stays the same. Adventure waits beyond the bend, no matter whence we came. As brown hair turns to silver gray and smooth skin starts to crinkle, maturity and wisdom see the comedy in wrinkles. Age changes our priorities from money and good looks to more important, everlasting traits from God’s own book. Each day is deemed as special; we take life less for granted, reap overflowing bounty of the good seeds we have planted. We may glance back with some regrets as up and up we climb, but our focus now is forward, beyond the reach of time. § Parents are People, Too The pimple-faced young newly-weds are green as summer gourds, start raising kids with all the zeal their ignorance affords, so sure this easy job will be like resting in the shade, repeating all the same mistakes their own young parents made. Their home-style training on-the-job is tougher than prep school, and the parents feel as dumb as a slow, thick-headed mule. The kids grow up with psyches warped like bacon in the pan, and start the vicious cycle in action once again. § Peace The surprising statement Jesus made awhile before he died of bringing swords instead of peace could make us shake inside. Did he not promise peace on earth from the time that he was born? Is he trying to confuse us? Must we bear another thorn? He says there always will be wars among the godless nations, no hope for lasting world-wide peace in all of his creation. When we accept salvation and live as Christians ought, between the church and Satan a life-long war is fought. It can cause enmity between the very best of friends, and even closest families may never make amends. But the peace he gives comes from above as day by day we plod. No war shakes our serenity when we know peace with God. § Perfect Guidelines It’s no less than amazing  how God still smooths the way and guides us down the straightened path  to face each dawning day. His word presents a blueprint,  the perfect holy guide to make us happy and content  as we walk by his side. The stones and thorns may give us pause  but stronger we will be by conquering each problem,  though the end we cannot see. To climb each rocky mountain,  explore the valley floor, God gives us everything we need  and untold blessings more. § Perspective Our house is old and battered, can’t get insurance now but it shields us from the elements and suits us, anyhow. When neighbor kids have ventured in, they ooh and ah and swoon. To them it is a mansion; they think we hang the moon. For beds with sheets and coverlets, soft rugs upon the floor they yearn as tho a-hungered. How could we ask for more? So many people in this world have no bed for to sleep. A blanket or a woven mat is all they have to keep. We’re thankful for the blessings for which we’re not in hock. Our lowly, aging trailer is the best home on the block. § Petition for Aging Dear Lord, make my speech always seasoned with salt, with loving grace toward my fellow man and give me a kind disposition  to help him along when I can. Considerate, thoughtful and sweet would I be, forgiving him every trespass that my sins, too, might be forgiven and heaven will be home at last. Make me generous with both time and talent as well as the money I earn, obeying commands you have given and practicing lessons I learn. Wipe out all the vain pride and pretense, give me eyes to see beauty within and lips speaking only of praises, no complaints that might be a sin. Help me understand all of your teachings and store them up deep in my heart for an attitude strong and unshaken that your unfathomed love can impart. Make me thankful for all of your blessings, a well-spring o’erflowing each day so that old age is filled with contentment and caring for others, I pray. § Points of View I hear your gripes about your mate  and , like as not, they’re true so I can’t help but wonder  what he would say of you. Old Grannie always used to say,  as surely as the tides: No matter just how thin the board,  it always has two sides. § Prayer Be careful what you pray for;  the answer may surprise. It could be even better,  it might be otherwise. I asked for brains like Einstein,  the speaking style of Newt, with Kate Smith’s voice and Marilyn’s bod’,  Phyllis Diller’s personality cute. I wound up with a build like Kate,  Einstein’s unruly hair, an awesome brain like Ms. Monroe  and nil on speaking flair, the pre-lift face of Phyllis  and her raspy voice to boot, but worst of all (oh, wouldn’t you know?)  the personality of a newt. § Priceless Blessings To smell the fresh aroma  as a farmer turns the sod or watch a spider spin its web  inspires an awe of God. The glow of fireflies in the dark,  the crunch of fallen leaves, the many priceless blessings  humanity receives we often take for granted  as we toil to get ahead; no prayer of thanks before we fall  exhausted into bed. The sound of rain on an old tin roof  and the freshness of the air clear cobwebs from the mind and soul,  should set the mood for prayer. An attitude of thankfulness  as each new morning dawns will give our heart a set of wings,  delight in the love it spawns. In counting up our blessings  and praying as we should, the nearness to our loving God  does us a world of good. § Putty in His Hands Our souls are oft like Silly Putty, so pliable when we are young, susceptible to acts of kindness or occasional slips of the tongue. Slight pressure can mold us for beauty, and stress sometimes squashes us flat. The sharp claws of evil may puncture and mar, but love can erase all of that. God gently will form us for service and help avoid pressures of sin. Without the Divine Potter’s molding, the gross shape of Satan will win. § Puzzles The things people do sometimes puzzle me;  a few are quite nutty, you’ll surely agree. Some litter the landscape, defying the law. They must have no conscience on which they can draw for pride in their homeland or care for their friends,  the backbone on which our nation depends. Bike riders are people I worry about;  they class bikes within rules of walking, no doubt: Face oncoming traffic at varying speed,  requiring the cars to conform to their need. And then there’s the driver at dusk you may meet  who turns on his parking lights out on the street. His fellow-man wonders just what’s going on;  is he parked on the shoulder; is he moving along? You see where I’m heading; do you get the gist?  Perhaps you could add more strange folks to the list. I may be among them; please point out my flaws.  I shouldn’t be guilty of breaking the laws. § Recipe for Marriage (For Myra and Bennie Brown) First you take a gal from Flomot and a guy from Quitaque, throw them in some rancid water mixed with sour clabber whey, cook them in the broiling Texas sun til their skin grows nice and tan, add a dash of sneezy cotton dust to the mixture in the pan. Soon the stew will start to bubble and before your very eyes, these two country hicks have multiplied, and now the count is five! In-laws and grandkids in the mix are the herbs and spice and leaven that make their fifty years of bliss a little bit like heaven. § Rockin’ Chair Gotcha? Are you comfy in your rocker, in that deep and cozy rut? Aren’t your hinges getting rusty? Is the door forever shut? Get out there and make some changes, lose some fat and muscle up. Modify that dated hairstyle, start a friendship with a pup. Get a job, enjoy a hobby, make the most of every day. Take a meal to busy neighbors, do some good along the way. Kids have nothing on the oldsters if we dare refuse to doubt. Don’t become a staid old fogey; change is what life’s all about. Act as tho this day’s your last, but  keep tomorrow on your tongue. Give your best with zest and gusto, and you’ll stay forever young. § Rules of Nature The slick TV preachers would have you believe the more cash you send them, the more you’ll receive; If you have enough faith, your problems dissolve, with emotions the hub around which you revolve. Cry oceans of tears, proclaiming your love and sins will be vanquished by God up above. Not so, says the Bible, his word and our guide; thru thick and thru thin he’ll be by your side if you trust and obey him in all that you do, with no guarantees that your woes will be few. He’ll lighten your load, send blessings galore and promise you life on that eternal shore. But you can’t change the rules by invoking his name; hit your thumb with a hammer, you hurt just the same. (Inspired by Raymond West) § Say Again? According to the eastern sky, a new day is at hand. This is the time to rise and shine for folks who work the land. The farmer’s friend, old Cotton John on radio would say, this is the best part (early dawn) of the Golden Spread day. With handsome Harry off to work, a living for to make, I give myself a permanent before the kids awake. Between a mother’s daily chores of feeding, bathing, tending, is washing dirty laundry, a basket full of mending. Housekeeping is a challenge among the scattered toys, and if you haven’t noticed, five kids make plenty noise! Adult-size clothes to be cut down to fit a smaller frame seem pretty near impossible, like a no-win, endless game. Three hot meals each and every day leave no time for a nap, with sweeping, mopping, lifting kids, my energy to sap. Eight hours of deep, unbroken sleep are a luxury so rare; the kids are top priority when parents really care. I chuckle at the question, (trying hard not to offend), “What do you do for past-time?” asked by a childless friend. § Self Image When I look in the mirror  at morn with yawns and sighs disaster is the image  that greets my sleepy eyes: a face devoid of make-up, a tousled mop of hair. The sags and bags, uncovered, are more than sight can bear. This is the picture of myself  I carry in my head, the plain old country bumpkin  who just got out of bed. Compared to anyone I meet,  made up and smartly dressed, the contrast, sharp and striking,  leaves my ego sorely stressed. You think that view ridiculous?   I reckon you are right. Perhaps I need new glasses  to improve my inner sight. § Silent Communication Without a word, a loving pat  can mean so very much, conveying all we need to hear  with just a gentle touch. A slap on the back says “You’re ok;  I like that thing you did!” No syrupy words could mean the same  to a well-deserving kid. A thump on the rump gets the message across  that Mama is displeased, the first step toward self-discipline,  with victims’ rights appeased. God gave communication  to serve in many ways. A hand can be a perfect tool,  even in modern days. § Something’s Wrong Here! The new abandoned baby  made people wag their heads. The mother is a criminal,  most everybody says. But a doctor could have killed it  an hour before its birth and some folks wouldn’t bat an eye,  for what’s a fetus worth? To take a life is murder,  at nine months or at five; any growing organism is very much alive. An oak relies on mother earth  for life, you must agree, but that dependence doesn’t make it  any less a tree. Will God always be patient?   He cries, “How long, how long?” What you or I might choose to do  cannot change right or wrong. The church is no democracy,  God still makes all the rules and a country which ignores that fact  is a country run by fools. Our nation is so “civilized”,  the next step up may be: exterminate the very old,  past productivity. Just think of all the money  and misery we’d save to send those feeble bodies  to a thankful early grave. §  Sonnet to Stoicism I’d love to be just like the man  who up and died one day; nobody there could guess the cause,  he’d not been sick, no way. They did a real autopsy  to see just why he died and they were all surprised to find  so much disease inside. From heart disease to cancer,  cause for all kinds of pain, but no one there had ever heard  the stoic man complain. He never spent a day in bed,  his smile would warm the heart- an attitude I’d like to learn,  tho I’m just not that sort. I strive to be without complaint, but everybody knows I ain’t. § Step by Step As I walk toward eternity  aimed in the right direction, God guides me and forgives me, not asking for perfection. My spirit yearns to stretch and grow  in my daily walk with God; maturity must be my goal  as step by step I plod, but attainment of the greatest heights  on earth I may not see. It isn’t I who earn the prize but he who walks with me. § Styles Oh, for the days when people  tried to look their very best, when dresses in a wish book  could pass the acid test: Does it flatter best your figure?   Is it fitted at the neck? Or does its modern sloppy lines  just make you look like heck? Guys wear their caps on backward,  their high-topped shoes untied. Why choose to look so tacky?   Do you feel that way inside? And what about the hair styles  like you just got out of bed; do you practice being ugly?   Is the age of beauty dead? § Success You say the other guy was blest  with all good things of life? You say he gained his wealth and fame  without an ounce of strife? The rocky road he’s traveled  has had its share of stress. He must be brave enough to fail  to ever find success. § Successful Parenting An expectant upturned cherub face framing guileless eyes looks to a harried mother  to be both kind and wise. If he were but a stranger  we’d take the time to smile and spend a minute answering,  so pleasant all the while. Does not this precious innocent  deserve our very best? The Golden Rule should be our guide  in every daily test. Must we reserve our pleasantries  for those outside the home to make a buck in business,  a friendship to atone? A lifetime is forever  when living with regrets; those early years your only chance  to measure real success. § Sufficient Unto the Day Today is the day that God gives us  to do unto others with love. Tomorrow with possible problems  is best left to the Father above. We know that it profits us nothing  to contemplate what lies ahead, so when Satan tempts you to worry,  just count precious blessings instead. § “Take No Thought for Raiment” A glance in the crowded closet set Mama’s mind awhirl. Her wardrobe had been skimpy since she was just a girl. Her one-word comment, “Sinful!” spoke volumes loud and clear. She had no great concern for the fashion of the year. When I was young and times were hard, one dress for “everyday” was all she ever had to wear and it was often frayed. On wash day she would take big towels (just worn-out cottonsack), pin them together on each side to cover front and back, thus hide a little nekkidness til the faded dress was dry. You don’t forget those memories even if you try. Her life was plain and simple, contentment filled her days, the epitome of motherhood as five tough kids she raised. § Talent Search (For Judy) Don’t waste a moment pining for talents out of reach. A greater gift than poetry is knowing how to teach. Ability to shape the minds of children as they grow transcends a sense of rhythm or words that rhyme, you know. Investment in a little soul pays dividends above, instilling faith forever in our great God of love. § Talent God gave us each some talent innate  to do with as we will. We choose every day to use or abuse it  or claim that our portion is nil. Like muscles, it needs much strenuous work  in order to grow and expand. Left idle, it starts to atrophy fast,  not answering our demand. To say you have none is rebuking God;  impartial is his middle name. Abundant are all the blessings he gives,  tho none are exactly the same. Humility is not demeaning oneself  and ability given by God. It’s daring to use that which we have, with him as holy ramrod. § Teaching Old Dogs I had no earthly inkling old age could be such fun, The ideal mate, a job I love,  a hobby I’ve begun. A suggestion made by Nita  (my memories in rhyme) has opened many doors for me,  came at the perfect time. I’m in my second childhood,  excitement running high, with plans for staying busy  until the day I die. An old dog can so learn new tricks;  computers faze me not. Each day a new adventure waits,  ideas running hot. My rocking chair sits empty, the treadmill is my friend, the weight bench has me feeling young and fit and spry again. God keeps my soul in good repair  in case I die today but if I reach a hundred,  I’ll be thankful all the way. § The Art of Kindness “Be ye kind one to another,” we learned in Sunday school and like it is another verse we call the Golden Rule. This is the love that Jesus taught by word and by example: Think not of self, but sacrifice and give. Submission made him happy then, can lift us up today; for Christians it’s the only way to live. Do we only think of kindness when we’re with a total stranger or sending help to orphans far away? The home is where compassion is often sadly lacking, where bitter, hateful attitudes hold sway. Just try a compliment today, a soft and gentle answer, or turn your pouty lips into a smile. With practice it gets easier and grows into a habit, makes everyone feel better for awhile. § The Good News What controversy is evoked by sticking to God’s word! That husbands still should rule the home seems (worldly-wise) absurd. He prophesied that man would deem his teachings foolish drivel; “Do your own thing” in nothing new, the essence of all evil. His laws intend to make us the best that we can be, transforming us from inside out with the grace he gives for free. Admitting to our weakness may be our finest hour; the poor in spirit realize they have no earning power. To feel the touch of loving hands that guide our wayward feet is to know the greatest love of all, contentment oh, so sweet. His yoke is not a burden but a sharing of the load that oft would hinder travel on a long and lonely road. God’s timeless word will never change; we need no other guide. Obedience brings happiness as Christ walks by our side. § The Journey My life is a journey o’er valley and plain with varying rhythms of pleasure and pain. The wind and the rain may hamper my travel but sunshine most often makes problems unravel. Thru deep miry ruts or colorful byways, my destiny waits at the junction of highways. The broad road is tempting with bright promised fate but the straight, narrow pathway leads to heaven’s gate. Tho by worldly assessment I may be deprived, at the throne of the Master I’ve at long last arrived. § The Last Call Girl Donna was the link in the family chain that brought us all together, a "grit-and-grin old farm girl" unfazed by stormy weather. A genealogy nut was she, each discovery a thrill, as she found new cousins everywhere, the family tree to fill. The only living female in her family line of Call, she came up with the greatest e-mail name of all. But AOL rejected it as being quite profane, refused to send her letters on with the cute LastCallGirl name. § The Midnight Sky Who can describe the sky at night?   No words there be, it seems. Nor count the multitude of stars  nor catch the bright moonbeams. Its wonders never cease to awe,  tho eons count its age. Yet even this, God’s handiwork,  is just a passing stage. § The Music of Life Some folks seem to think music lessons will be a quick magic potion to set their souls free. Just visit the teacher, absorb every book and soon they’ll be playing in some cozy nook. Then comes the surprise: There’s work to be done! This job requires practice, more labor than fun. The learning of music (piano or voice) can occur without teachers, in case there’s no choice. But it cannot be learned if practice is nil; a student has many requirements to fill. And life is like music, improved by much sweat to fertilize freely the talents we get. The greatest school marm is experience tough, and a lifetime of learning is never enough. We take the stage daily, performing our bit but we may never know if our song is a hit. § The Peacemaker This nation honors the fighters, the bruisers who clamor for fame. We give scads of money and glory to those who think life is a game. Our heroes are tough men like  Rambo who’d much rather die than to lose, spreading mayhem and death without conscience and we’d sure like to be in his shoes. But perhaps even braver than Rambo is the big-hearted, peace-loving man who quietly calms troubled waters, brings harmony whene’er he can. His soft answers head off a battle and handle hurt pride with kid gloves. He smooths ruffled feathers unnoticed, his motives sustained by pure love. He asks for no praise or attention; of boasting he hasn’t an ounce. Pride’s impotent dart seldom scratches his hide; he’s tough as a boot where it counts. (Describing my mate of 47 years) § The Pecan Tree When we bought the aging trailer, the “country look” location seemed just the place to fit our needs, a home for the duration. We hardly even noticed the tree with nuts attached just waiting to reward us with bounty yet unmatched. In the ten years we have owned the place, nine times we’ve reaped a crop and gathered many gallons, and shelled almost non-stop. Computing retail prices, the money we have saved may pay for this old trailer house and the street which now is paved. The bad news is: the pies they make are so hard to resist. I really shouldn’t eat a bite. Oh well, if you insist! § The Road Less Traveled “Make level paths for your feet, take only ways that are firm.” That proverb of old is still great advice for folks thru all ages to learn. Use wisdom in choosing the pathway, a straight course to your destination, less treacherous than that wide, winding road, so rock-strewn with bruising temptation. The straight, level path is so pleasant, with God as the great travel guide. He helps us to carry our own heavy load as we walk in the yoke side by side. He offers us wisdom and courage to see us through life’s pain and woe and hope for eternal salvation as towards heaven’s portals we go. No other life choice can ever compare to the plan he outlines in his word for happiness here on the earth and beyond, the greatest news man ever heard. § The Secret of Happiness His compliment on my patience with kids came at the perfect time, making me wonder if Harry had ways of reading my mind. I felt inferior, stupid,  inept as a mother and wife, although this is what I had dreamed of through eighteen years of my life. Above and beyond anything I had hoped, every day was a beautiful gift, and his heart-felt words of loving praise, were enough for a much-needed lift. It would be hard to exaggerate the good that a kind word can do, but at home where they’re most wanted, compliments are normally few. A tender-hearted husband seems mighty rare these days. The by-word now is “macho”, whose attitude conveys the notion that emotions are just for sissy girls who live somewhere in fantasy, a never-never world. But to this old gal, a sexy man is one who shows his feelings by thoughtful kindness, loving words that leave the senses reeling. If you want to know the secret for happiness to tarry,  the simple, perfect answer is this: just marry Harry. § The Texican Language All Texans are bi-lingual  from the time they learn to read. The spoken word resembles  not the written, no indeed! And when the teacher tries to make  our language fit the norm, she’s bitten off a hefty chew;  she meets a raging storm. We’d sooner give our good right hand  than speak with silver tongue. We yearn to fit just as we are  with those we live among. It’s Texican we know and love,  the language of the West. We like to read in English  but speak in drawl the best. § The Thinking Heart “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he,” the Bible says. Not the heart that pumps his life blood, but the one inside his head. Mind, heart and soul are all combined to make us who we are. Our thoughts control our bodies, keep actions up to par. “Out of men’s hearts come evil thoughts,” said Jesus while on earth. The seed that is planted, good or bad, will eventually give birth. Whatever is true, noble, right, whatever is lovely and pure, admirable, praiseworthy, excellent - to think on these things will ensure that the heart will produce a glorious crop of love overflowing each day. Stuff garbage in the cranium, and there is hell to pay. § Thinking Positive Though age has brought some problems, I’m looking forward still. Each year is better than the last, there’s gold beyond the hill. I wouldn’t trade my silver hair for teenage pimples yet, or rolls of fat for the insecure giggles that they get. I’d rather have arthritis than to go on that first date and wrestle with some ugly boy who I could learn to hate. You can call your wrinkles crows’ feet, a sign of age and time. I prefer to think more positive; my wrinkles are laugh lines. § To Be Me Like a fingerprint, one of a kind,  I fill a place unique and rare. My thoughts are mine and mine alone  until I love enough to share. My world is rich with blessings  beyond  allotments for one life. The race is free of hurdles,  seldom  brings an hour of strife, with wants and worries almost nil,  a friend and lover at my beck and call. I’ve kids by blood and acquired by law,  outstanding people, one and all. There’s no one I would rather be,  no place to which I care to roam. I need not run away from me nor often stray too far from home. § Trials Develop Perseverance Our parents didn't likely plan the hardships we endured but we have profited and grown, become more self-assured. We had to exercise our skill to grow toward our goal and strengthen flabby muscles of mind and will and soul. The pampered child whose every wish is answered on demand will miss delightful yearning with stars too close at hand. A dream may grow as time goes by or languish for awhile, and stir the soul to action, produce a winning smile. The prize that's earned by toil and sweat, with patience, faith and hope will furnish satisfaction and one more way to cope. § Trouble-Free Marriage? Do you know of a marriage without ups and downs? If you’re lucky, there’s hope for more smiles than frowns. Life is always a series of problems to meet; we can choose to fight bravely or give up in defeat. Each day’s tough requirements may seem to be more than the strength and endurance that you have in store. Dig down one notch deeper, and surely you’ll find the loving incentive to be extra kind. The pay-back is golden, and soon you’ll believe that it’s better to give than it is to receive. You have more to offer than you’ll ever know, a deep well of fortitude, love to bestow. It multiplies daily if exercised well; two partners for life can in happiness dwell. § Understanding A computer is a handy tool to save us lots of worry unless it has conniption fits when we are in a hurry. Aren’t you glad it isn’t necessary to understand its ways in order to avail yourself of the dividends it pays? And likewise, when the God of grace sends love we don’t deserve with blessings overflowing, plus heavenly reserves, we’re thankful he does not require a knowledge deep and strong of his mercy, love and wisdom so that we can do no wrong. His thoughts are far beyond the grasp of earthly mortal minds but he offers us the riches of his heavenly designs. § Utopia A pair of road-runners are building a nest in the tree by my window today. Their calls are unique as their long speedy legs; wish I could de-code what they say. A hawk leaves his perch stop the tall post to swoop down and snatch up a snake. And Fritz trees a coon with his ferocious bark; what a big fuss a small dog can make! Mama quail and her chicks often come for a visit, skunks drop in to eat with the cat. Deer browse by the roadside till suddenly startled and bound toward the ranch quick as that. Coyotes yap and holler from down toward the canyon, Old Sol hunkers low in the west. Of all the world's options a human can choose, this country life's surely the best. § Values Just how important is it  to know about the stars or learn the names of presidents  or what caused two world wars? Should we worry what killed dinosaurs?   How ancient is the earth? Will they ever clone a human?   What is all this knowledge worth? Worldly wisdom is but folly,  meaningless, as time will show. “Love god, keep his commandments”  is all we need to know. § Visualization It’s tough to realize the gruesome  truth of Jesus’ death; the story has been told so much, it hardly takes our breath. But then some modern tyrant  re-institutes the cross and we recoil in horror  at civilization’s loss. We can’t relate to Jesus  as a personality; He’s just a picture with a beard,  no feelings you can see. But take somebody that you love -  your husband or your son, and visualize HIM on that tree  for no sin he has done. His bare and tortured body  writhes gasping hard for air. The dried spit mingled with his blood  now streaks his face so fair. His lacerated back against  the cross of rough-hewn wood, the pain of piercing by the nails  can scarce be understood. How could a loving father  whose son knew only bliss send him below to suffer  such a death as this? We cannot grasp the wisdom that says this must be so nor measure love so rich and pure,  whose depth we’ll never know. § What’s the Rush? I’m not good at rushing; perfection takes time, whether sewing a shirt or writing a rhyme. Don’t hand me a deadline or watch as I work. Just give me free rein and I’ll not duty shirk. I love that old saying - there’s none better yet: “The hurrier I go, the behinder I get.” § What’s This Nation Coming To? Forefathers of this country  would turn over in their graves if they could hear the news these days  of people making waves. We’ve gone from Christian principles  to gross depravity. Fear mongers would have us aghast  at folks on bended knee. The women’s libbers cry alarm  when men agree to change with hope of learning Christian ways,  their lives to rearrange. The laws within God’s Holy Word  are fought with tooth and nail; a nation headed down this track  is someday bound to fail. Our founders used the Bible  for decisions as a rule; now supposed men of wisdom have outlawed it in school. The “Promise Keepers” made us see  perhaps it’s not too late if every Christian does his part  to avoid a ghastly fate. § Who Woulda Thunk It? The leading Jews of Jesus’ time were looking for the Christ to rule an earthly kingdom with military might. Their king would oust the Romans and sit on David’s throne, give government appointments to the Jews alone. The ordinary Jesus, so humble, mild and meek taught his apostles how to love, to turn the other cheek. Uneducated, unassuming, hardly the elite; no earthly king would bend his knee to wash another’s feet! He never hounded sinners to change unruly ways but taught them by example that godly living pays. His treatment of these sickly sheep was delicate and caring. No shame or fear did he endorse, an attitude so daring. He was not pious, uppity, he wore no special clothes, hung out with ordinary folks and listened to their woes. He made and drank the choicest wine, displayed a sense of humor, was happy and contented in spite of caustic rumor. His seedy reputation, tho fed by ruthless lies, did not concern him in the least, was no immense surprise. The jealous priests and Pharisees who sought his gruesome end thought they would save their own necks and the Jewish way defend. But the temple and its records, within one generation, had been destroyed, and Jesus’ death had brought the world salvation. § Wondering I have a dictionary with a lot of good info, and encyclopedic knowledge seems to multiply and grow, but there still are many questions without answers, anyway. If we save them up for heaven, reckon what our God will say? If the evolution theory is correct, I wonder why humans haven’t sprouted wings, as long as they have tried to fly? What good is a cocktail party, modern art, the IRS? Why must women follow fashion telling us to wear a dress? Why do men wear suits and neckties like a bunch of dapper clones? Do you sometimes wonder, also? Surely I am not alone. Why do we resist God’s teaching even tho he’s on our side, knowing we would be so happy if we took him as our guide? Why can’t ice cream make us skinny? How does acupuncture work? ESP, is this the answer? Is Bill Clinton just a jerk? Why are wars caused by religion? Why hate when it feels so bad? Could we live without computers or is this a passing fad? On and on, the list is endless. Questions boggle up our mind, and I doubt that in this lifetime all the answers we will find. § Works of Faith The Bible seems confusing unless you study well; the context is important, its lessons thus to tell. It says that works will save you and then it says they won’t. Look closely at the KIND of works, the ones that save or don’t. Old Testament provisions had works the Jews obeyed like painful circumcision and keeping Sabbath days. Those laws were nailed upon the cross, not bound as Christian rites. The New Law gives us freedom, like daylight after night. There are works that humans oft invent, big baggage we may tote such as fingering a rosary or saying prayers by rote. The only works that God accepts are laid out in his will. They speak of love and faith and hope, all righteousness fulfill. § Worldly Wisdom We earthlings worship knowledge, would cure our ills with schools, but knowledge by its lonesome self makes educated fools. It takes much Godly wisdom to garner real success; without his power-steering, our lives become a mess. Professional advisors, supposedly so wise, are often proven incorrect, but don’t apologize. They feed us tons of garbage wrapped up like daily news, and we are not to question their sick, perverted views. Omnipotent creator God still is the only one who answers all the questions, can be depended on. The experts tell us every day good health depends upon menus of rice and pasta; thou scourge, red meat, begone! Pronouncements on cholesterol we heed with bated breath as tho to eat a drop of fat invites the hand of death. But drowning out the scientists, the Voice of ages rings; strive for a goodly balance, “moderation in all things.” § Worship Does the Lord need our worship, his ego to build? Not likely, so why are we told this command to fulfill? It seems everything he has asked us to do is for our own good, and for others, too. To contemplate infinite wisdom and love that comes from the creator God up above, we tend to forget our problems and pains, make great, indescribable attitude gains. In counting the blessings that he sends our way, the new opportunities knocking each day, our spirits soar lightly beyond worldly care, refreshing our souls like a sweet breath of air. § My Foundation I cannot fall. The one who watches from above And guards me every hour, Who has led me safely through the storms, Will keep me in his power. Altho I meet on every hand Temptations that would bar my way, He holds my hand and walks with me, And clears the thorns and briers away. I will not stray. Altho the tempter points a way That glitters with material gain, And bids me go and tread his way, He begs in vain. For looking up for strength and help, He whispers softly in my ear, "Fear not, I am with thee always", And gives me comfort, hope and cheer. I will not faint. Though troubles come and try my soul, And I must face a sunless day, When I would fain yield up my hopes And in despair turn from the way. While shuddering, staggering in the gloom And in wrestling with a stubborn will, A steady hand holds out the light, A mighty voice says, "Peace, be still." Sallie Matthews June 2, 1925 (The poem that was the catalyst for my late-in-life hobby.  Sallie Matthews Gunn was my mother.) § Blessed Pain Have you ever thought of giving thanks for the gift of searing pain? If you'd ever suffered leprosy, you would know that pain is gain. A leper cannot feel the rat that gnaws his ear away, nor the rusty nail poked through his foot where infection may hold sway. He cannot feel the need to blink, to spread the tears about. Soon damage causes blindness because the eye dries out. The pain of guilt is not much fun, but a warning that we need, a sign of danger to the soul that we'd be wise to heed. To ignore it slowly sears the heart until it cannot feel, like neuropathy or leprosy that only God can heal. When the Holy Spirit lives within, our hearts are sure to change, and growing is no easy task, a life to rearrange. Because Christ loves us dearly, he gives the very best. Sometimes it's major surgery that brings us happiness. Perseverance comes through trials, a good crop needs much rain, so remember to be thankful for the warning signs of pain. § Grace Conquers All David was a man after God's own heart? He murdered a man, took his wife! How is such a sinner to face the judge at the end of his life? The Lord uses David's example to show how to deal with our sin. With an attitude of deep repentance, we still can attain peace within. The blood of Christ flows through his body, impurities washing away when his children ask his forgiveness. Just confess every fault when you pray. He awaits your returning with patience, wants to cover your sins with his grace, saving showers of blessings to greet you, enfolding you in his embrace. § History Repeats Robin Hood remains alive and well, his legacy secure, still taking money from the rich to buy votes from the poor. Without regard for rule of law or precious common sense, the end now justifies the means, at humanity's expense. The constitution of our land is trashed by Mr. Hood, with massive ego-wisdom, under guise of "public good." Disdaining moral principles for which our fathers died, he has displaced God and decency. We're on a downhill slide. Like wolves dressed in sheep's clothing, his band of merry men are killing off our freedoms with a weapon called a pen. As we worship at the altar of fortune, beauty, fame, Friar Tuck has picked our pockets, and we've only self to blame.