BLACK FRIDAY

 Every Tom,  Dick & Harry (some of you probably do not understand why I use those 3 names---another idiom from my youth) now has their version of Black Friday.  Black Friday in the retail world began decades ago and was always celebrated? the Friday after Thanksgiving.  It was the official opening of the Christmas spending season.  I have friends---NOT ME---who are guilty of hitting the stores after midnight Thanksgiving day.  If they start giving away gold bars, I MIGHT participate--but probably not.  The bargains were the gimmicks to get you through the door.  In the world of marketing they call those "Loss Leaders".  The retail industry is willing to sell at cost--perhaps even a small loss to get you into their establishment.  As with many things---the pandemic and shut down hit retail industry in the nose.  We learned to buy any and everything on line.  I am GUILTY!  I am NOT a shopper and if I never crossed the threshold of another retail establishment it would be wonderful.  I do not even go into the grocery store unless I have a last minute emergency and for one or two items only.  I am not a fan of crowds, pushing and shoving, grabbing and throwing, standing in long lines, or being overwhelmed by too many choices.  It is a good thing I love my house---for I stay here a great deal.  My outings involve walks--lots of them and being the Grands' Uber.  Shopping on line is my way to go.

Fast forward to today and Black Friday is hugely "celebrated" on line.  It is no longer limited to the Friday after Thanksgiving.  I have been seeing ads for months about the "Latest" Black Friday.  Do you associate Black Friday with throwing your hard earned cash at the retailers?  It might surprise you to know---the original Black Friday was not a concept born out of retail sales.  The first Black Friday was September 24, 1869---a date of financial panic in the US sparked by gold speculators.  The true origin of the post- Thanksgiving Black Friday lies in the sense of black meaning "marked by disaster or misfortune."  "In the 1950's, factory managers first started referring to the Friday after Thanksgiving as Black Friday because so many of their workers  decided to falsely call in sick, thus extending their holiday weekend.   There is another story originating about 10 years later about Philadelphia traffic cops using the phrase to describe the day after Thanksgiving  when they worked 12 hour shifts in terrible traffic." 

As I reflected on Black Friday and what it has come to mean, as a Believer it has an entirely different meaning.  Friday--the day before the Jewish Sabbath, is the day when Jesus paid the price for all of our sins.  He suffered and died--so we could spend eternity with Him.  The Blackest of Fridays---and the price He paid --and all for us was unthinkable.  He suffered--died---was betrayed---was buried---and perhaps most unthinkable was separated from The Father.  There will never be a Black Friday to compare to that one.  So thankful---Sunday was coming.

"At noon the sky turned dark

and stayed that way until three o'clock."

Matthew 27:45

THANKSGIVING MEMORIES

 The BIG DAY is here!  I am pretty certain my very favorite holiday of the year is Thanksgiving.  For the simple reason that it does not involve all the mad scurrying and rushing about trying to do WAY TOO MUCH.  In addition to that---it is the only holiday when all of my family is together.  Our one expectation is good food---beyond that we enjoy each other's company.  We always play games, we always eat a LOT (these people LOVE to eat), and we watch a movie together--popcorn included.  We don't leave the property to shop or see the sights---we just enjoy the time together.  With 7 grands and a girlfriend added to that mix, it is never a dull moment.  Their ages range from 23 to 4 with a sprinkling of all stages between.  It is amazing how well we all fit together--even with the large age disparity.  The fact my children were born in 3 different decades probably has something to do with that.

YES, we have turkey(s) and ham.

Side note---Do turkeys really fly?   (VIA WKRP)

Over the decades of Thanksgivings I have witnessed, perhaps my very favorite memories are the three decades spent with the couple who witnessed our marriage and supported us when it ended.  We had celebrating Thanksgiving down to a fine science.  Those were the years of raising families and witnessing those offspring start their on families. Through all those years ---with extended family joining us--we sat down and enjoyed the feast together.  Those memories are engraved upon my heart.  What a blessing--I am so thankful.  SO---go enjoy your day and remember Who to be thankful to.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

"Give thanks to the Lord,

for He is good,

His love endures forever!"

Psalm 118"1

VITAL

 Recently I heard a sermon which began the wheels turning.  There was reference to our vital organs being hidden.  So once again, I went to the Creator Who was in the details of the first man and explored His creation.  God knew---those vital organs needed the most protection.  Life cannot be sustained without a heart or lungs or kidneys or  stomach, or  liver (there are more--consult the chart below).  Man has figured out a way to sustain life without kidneys---but the quality of that life is greatly diminished.  Man has determined how dialysis can keep us alive---but the artificial way ties us to a machine and often causes as many problems as it solves.  

I had a dear friend who in his final months had an external VAD to help his heart pump the blood necessary to sustain life.  The machine gave him more time here, but he could not be off that machine.  He carried it everywhere he went.  AND still, due to advanced heart disease he was severely limited in what he could do.

There is a machine that can help us breathe which is called a ventilator.  It usually leads to the placement of of PEG tube to supply the needed nutrition.  SO, though man has been smart enough to come up with ways to sustain life when some of our vital organs do not work or have been removed, the quality of life is NOT what was provided by the original organs of the body.

Finally, I thought of the brain.  There is no substitute for the brain and it has-perhaps the greatest amount of protection with the surrounding skull.  I suppose there could someday be the creation of a machine to substitute for the brain---today's equivalent is the computer.  The question then becomes---are we really still here with a computer for a brain?  What about the limitations of a computer---can it experience emotions, will it desire community, will memories be only stored RAM unlike the complexity of the neurons in a real brain?

YES---we are made up of a network of vital organs whose job it is to sustain our lives.  As I thought this over, I began to reflect on our souls.  NOT a vital organ---but the essential part of who we are.  The one part which never dies---but instead transfers from an earthly home to an eternal home.  What is the protector of the soul?  NOW--I have jumped off into the deep end--but with limited theological education---I believe God is our soul's protector. God gave us Jesus so that our soul might be with Him in eternity.  AND He gave us the Holy Spirit to dwell within us to guide us.   Think this over---it is a deep pool and bears consideration.  Who is protecting your soul?

"You are my mighty rock,

my fortress,

my PROTECTOR,

the rock where I am safe,

my shield,

my powerful weapon,

and my place of shelter."

Psalm 18:2

ATTITUDES

I refuse to go on to Christmas and Advent until after Thanksgiving is over.  WE HAVE SO MUCH TO BE THANKFUL FOR!  BUT---at times---I am so focused on what I do not have---that I forget all that I am blessed with.  How do we change our attitudes---how do we learn to focus on the positive rather than the negative?  How do we form a habit of habitual gratitude?  You will be happy to know I did some research.

Making something into a habit---varies---what a shocker.   It depends upon the habit you are trying to form, the personality of the person trying to form the habit, the environment or context you find yourself in, and the ability to be consistent.  The days to form new habits ranged from 18 to 254.  THAT is a HUGE range!  

During prayer, thanksgiving is part of my formula ALWAYS!  BUT I am not praying every minute of every day.  I am thinking a great deal of God---but that does not always transfer to thanksgiving.  Recently I watched a show in which one of the characters challenged her friends to find 3 things at the end of each day to verbally be thankful for.  They did it together for a period of time.  I really liked this idea.  Instead of giving a blanket thanks--why not pick out specific things about your day that you are thankful for and verbalize them.  In my mind, when we stop and consider our day---and remember all that we have to be grateful for---and acknowledge---out loud---three of the most significant, we have the starting of a habit.  Pick a period of time to try this challenge.  I do suggest at least two weeks.  See if it make a change in your attitude and banishes those "if only's".  Today is a good day to start your new habit!

"Rejoice always,

pray without ceasing ,

give thanks in all circumstances;

for this is the will of 

God in Christ Jesus

for you."

I Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV

MAINTAIN FOCUS

 Well here we are---Christmas is once again staring us in the face-one month and counting.   There is a part of me staring back in dread.  Christmas can be an invitation to once again go into project overload.  As if I was not already staring at a cornucopia of unfinished projects, I will have to try really - really hard to not get caught up in all the hype.  The world tries to convince us if we do not have the perfectly decorated home--inside and out; the perfect gift wrapped in the perfect innovative manner; the perfect calendar of activities leading up to the big day; the perfect meal on the lavishly prepared table; and the perfect family exuding joy at being together--I FAILED---ONCE AGAIN!  It can absolutely overwhelm and depress all the Martha Stewart wanna-be. 

Here is the thing about being a Martha Stewart---I recently watched as much of the documentary on her as I could stomach and came away with a new understanding of where that can lead.  She is a HOT MESS---and that is as kind as I can be.  The goal of perfectionism has led her down the primrose path to bitterness, self-delusion, and what seems to be a healthy dose of narcissism laced with anger.  She is NOT a happy --peace-filled-joyful person.  With all the wealth, with the seemingly perfect life, with everything always completed and finished with a flourish---she has driven herself to the illusion of always being perfect.  GOOD LUCK WITH STRIVING FOR PERFECTION, PEOPLE.  I would not trade places with her for all the tea in China.  Perfection is elusive and temporary-AT BEST!

SO- as for me---instead of strewing more less than complete projects in my path---I will remember my own wise words--- IT IS ONLY A DAY!  There is no one to hold my feet to the fire--but me.  Hopefully I can not just step on my own toes, but stomp them if I begin to go down that slippery slope of thinking the accoutrements are necessary to make it all Hallmark perfect.  Hopefully I can do what I really enjoy and can complete without frustration.  Instead of worrying about how it all looks--I can step back and enjoy the process---those who are important to me---and upmost--the reason for all the fuss.  I MUST maintain focus on the reason for the season!  Pray for me---as I pray for you to center our focus on His Birth.

"I pray that God,

Who gives you hope,

will bless you

with complete happiness and peace

because of your faith."

Romans 15:13 (CEV)

SERVING TO THE END

When you read this post, you will know I am officially old!.  I can pinpoint where the thought had its origin, but as always, it was a circular path to get to the point of today's post.  I want to record certain memories for my children and grands to know  some of my life stories.  This is one of those memories of something which is no longer observed.

It was the custom, by some, but not all, for someone to stay with the dearly departed until their earthly body was committed to the grave.  Family members and close kin considered this a sign of respect and love to spend their appointed time sitting by the casket.  When I researched this, before we had funeral homes, who now house the deceased until their comital, the wake was conducted in homes and the body of the deceased would be at home during the time before the funeral.    Now from what I read, originally there were a number of reasons someone stayed with the body, until the burial.  I will refrain from going there, but needless to say, by the time I came along this was no longer the case.  I remember distinctly my father performing this vigil, though never my mother.  As a young adult, I took a turn sitting at the funeral home with a dear older friend's husband who was also one of my clients.  This is the only time I did this, as by this time---it was literally a dying tradition.  With the advent of funeral homes housing the bodies, this tradition slowly went away.  The night I took a shift I stayed from after the calling hours until the wee hours of the night when I was relieved by the next sitter, it was an experience I have never forgotten.  You could call it an other world experience.  I was sitting by the body--alone in a funeral home---lights dimmed---deathly (pun intended) quiet.  Thankfully I am not easily spooked, but if anyone had popped out from behind a curtain, they probably would have had to bury me too.  I was doing this for my friend, the dearly departed had no idea, but she wanted someone with him.  I could take that one point of stress off her in this time of intense grief.  I did it for the love of my friend.   Traditions such as this--though sweet ---are long lost---probably because of the realization it is not only no longer necessary, but costly for funeral homes. If the funeral home had someone there to sit vigil, some staff member would have to be present every hour someone was in the funeral home for safety and liability reasons.  The closest thing to this is when an important royal or statesman dies as with Queen Elizabeth or George H.W. Bush.  Someone stood vigilance or "guard" over those coffins until they were interred.

How many times in life do we do things out of love---not really understanding the why's and in some cases thinking this is not necessary, but we do it anyway.  A true act of love is done with no thought of repayment ---only serving someone we love.  THAT, my friends makes for a good life--when you go above and beyond without thought of yourself.  NOW---I am not tooting my own horn for I have also spent much more time being self serving than not, but I also realize the times I served were also the best of times.  

"Be devoted to one another in love.

Honor one another above yourselves."

Romans 12:10

ONE NATION UNDER GOD

As I am writing it is post election Day 2--and I have some thoughts after listening to all that has been said--so far--about the outcome.  It really does not matter who you were voting for in my book-I feel the same affection for you today that I did pre election.   As I have said before, I have family members on both sides of the divide and some scratching their heads wondering how did we get to this?  I love each and every one of them-no matter their party affiliation.  Family trumps (no pun intended) party---EVERY TIME! 

What I have found interesting is the dignity which has been exhibited by the losing party -at least two days of dignity.  One of my early childhood lessons was how to humbly win and lose with grace.  Life is filled with competition--of all sorts, and we do not always win the game.  SO--it behooves us to learn to accept defeat without throwing a hissy fit or having a tantrum.  We need to accept things will not always go our way.  It appears many of the losing party have pulled their big boy/girl pants up and congratulated the winners and pledged to continue to seek the best for the country as a whole.  Good for them!

The absolute LAST thing I am going to say about this---since I have broken my rule of never discussing politics---is can we now all get along and play fair?  Can we disagree without taking personal shots.  In fact--can we leave our personalities behind?  Can we at least listen to the other side without attacking them as soon as their mouths are open?  Can we not gloat?  Can we leave our animus feelings behind?  We have become so divided, there seems to be no common ground anymore, but I KNOW we have common ground.  Here is one small example.  I have had Believers tell me the winner was prayed into the office and God is responsible for the victory.  I have also had one of the losing party tell me that God is allowing the winning party to reap what it has sown--justice will be served.  Did you jump on the band wagon with one of those statements and MISS THE FACT that both speakers were Believers?  Think about it! Praying for our country---we need to pray---and remember One Nation Under God.

"Let every person be subject to the governing authorities.

For there is no authority except from God,

and those that exist have been instituted by God."

Romans 13:1

ON TOP OF IT ALL

 Living in a neighborhood of hundred + year old pecan trees, we also have an abundance of squirrels.  Those little rodents are fun to watch, BUT they can also bring mischief galore!

.

Recently I caught this one on top of my garage which sits behind the house.  These old homes built 100+ years (my home was built in 1917)  had garages added after the fact and they were always detached.  The concept of attached garages came along decades later.  This little fellow has a bird's eye view of the surrounding property.  He can scope out the best pecan trees with the largest pecans AND look down on his enemies.  The only natural predators in the city are the coyotes and they are nocturnal while the squirrels are sleeping in their nests and the neighborhood cats which are fat and lazy.  Most of these cats are domesticated and would not know how to hunt and are not hungry enough to exert the energy.  Here he is--thinking he is above us all---on top of things.  What he does not realize is that I am known for my squirrel trapping skills.  He is NOT above my trapping skills and I know how to lure him.  They cannot resist sunflower seeds----once, I even trapped two at the same time  in a  trap.  I know their weaknesses and would bring them down to earth in the blink of an eye if they start any mischief.  

As I thought about this, I wondered how many times we have felt we were on top of the world (not literally--figuratively) and above all the fray?  My personal experience is this does not last long---the slats can be pulled out from under you without notice.  We are sailing along--blue skies and smooth waters and the next thing you know a storm appears out of nowhere.  Life is filled with these surprises---the test is how we handle whatever is thrown our way.  We need to understand, we are not above it all and should always be prepared (The Girl Scout Motto).  AND THEN---when we are floundering in the storms of life---remember to call upon The One who is always there---always listening---always faithful---and constantly has our best interest at heart.  The One who has the Life Saving Ring is waiting for our call.

"When you are in trouble,

call out to Me.

I will answer 

and be there to protect and honor you."

Psalm 91:15

AND THEN

 Most of us are born into families who love us---care for us---provide our needs---keep us warm---watch over us.  It is the best of worlds wrapped in a cocoon of love  

AND THEN

We begin to grow to become more independent and grow strong as we inch our way into the world.  We discover friends---those who are our buddies on the play ground--those who giggle and laugh with us---those who teach us how to "play nice"---those who love us without being family

AND THEN

We discover the opposite sex can be more than our playmates on the playground---we get butterflies in our stomachs in the presence of a special someone---we hold the hand of another and discover the warmth of those first glimmers of a special love---we learn the thrill of romance and the heartbreak of break-ups---we begin to slowly transition into the pre-adult world where we remain camped until we are officially launched

AND THEN

We are in the midst of preparation for independence---college degrees or career training---we make friends some of which will be life long friendships---we meet that special someone who seems to complete us---we learn to love another in an entirely different way---and often we commit our lives to live happily ever after

AND THEN

We then took two and made one and then  begin to add others who are a combination of the two---we learn the truest sense of selflessness--we learn to love without a thought for personal needs and wants---we learn to always put others first---we learn how to be a family--we continue the cycle of life with a family of our own

AND THEN

We watch all of the same as we have learned and lived unfold before us with our own---we experience their highs and lows--the pains of adulting---and the final goal of launching them into the word---all the while still loving them-worrying about them-and loving them deeply--completely

AND THEN

We then see  the next generation begin---we learn the true extent of how deeply we can love when we first hold our grandchildren in our arms---love without requirement---love for the joy of it---love without effort---we cannot get enough of it

AND THEN

We learn the love we have experienced---the deep-true love beyond ourselves--the love which will never leave us---seems to complete us---is our life breath---the love which seems endless, timeless, complete and perfect---is only a glimpse of the depth of The Father's love for us.

"But God, being rich in mercy,

because of the intense love which He bestowed on us,

caused us,

 death though we were through our offences,

to live with Christ"

Ephesians  2:4-5

MANY THANKS

Recently I volunteered in a school, after a long pause.  This will be the fifth elementary school I have had the privilege of crossing the threshold of and spending time among the young students and their teachers and staff.  Of the five elementary schools, there are striking similarities and really only a handful of differences.  With each school, I have been more blessed than I ever blessed.  

It is amazing how similar teachers are---some are well seasoned and some are raw dough just being put into the oven.  They ALL obviously care about the children---you could not do the job if you did not.  One of my observations is how the seasoned teachers pour into the raw dough teachers.  No one has a game plan they hold close as if it was a state secret.  All the teachers compare notes and pull together striving for the common goal of teaching the children.  There does not seem to be any competition between the faculty--they give the appearance of one cohesive unit striving to better the children.  They really do not have time for drama in today's performance driven educational environment.  All for one and one for all comes to mind when reflecting on the world of education.  Perhaps striving for a common goal aids in fostering this refreshing attitude. 

 When I encounter a teacher or staff member, their attitude about their job is pasted all over the expression on their face and the countenance they project.  We all have bad days--and I have been guilty of bringing my terrible mood to work.  Thankfully my clients and fellow workers were all adults.  NO EXCUSE, but some days I  struggled to bring my A Game to work without reflecting the personal world I lived in.  Teachers have no such luxury--they deal with the most vulnerable and have to leave their troubles behind when they walk into the halls of academia.  They hang their aches & pains, troubles and woes, and worldly problems in the cloak room before they enter their room.  Those children are perceptive and pick up on your attitude quickly and turn right back around and reflect that attitude to their teacher.  Those teachers learn this quickly and adjust to always putting on a good face --in spite of their troubles. 

As you can tell, I have great admiration for the profession and this is a short explanation of that respect. There is NO more important job---our very future depends upon them.  What a responsibility to have attached to your chosen career.  It is NEVER about the paycheck---I have been there and observed and I can promise you--you cannot pay them enough for the charge they have.  We all owe a big THANK YOU to the teachers in our lives today as well as those in our past---a literal pat on the back---put into out loud words shouted from the rooftop~

  THANK YOU FOR A JOB WELL DONE!

"Well done,

good and faithful servant."

Matthew 25:23

STRIPPING ALL THE WAY DOWN!

As I write this, today is the day after Halloween, and I am busy picking up candy paper in the yard and on the sidewalk and putting away the Halloween decorations.  One of the things I noticed last night as I greeted all those Trick or Treaters was I am showing my age.  Some of the costumes I had NO idea who they were.  Many were taken from "Johnny Come Lately" movies, books, videos, and all the other new fangled forms of communication.  As they walked up the walk to my front porch, some I would have to ask, "Who are you?"  LONG gone are the days of my youth where ghosts, cowboys, and other homemade costumes were the norm.  It surely most be a sign of our economic growth to see all the varieties of costumes and the technology involved in many of them. During my youth, money was tight for most ---it was a treat to buy a "coke", and we never thought to ask for a "store bought" costume.  It was the simplest of times---it was the greatest of times.  Don't knock Mayberry unless you have lived there! Sheriff Andy was Marshall Miller (who could double for Santa) and the scenes from Sunday afternoons after church were played out all over town.  I DIGRESS!

As I put away my few Halloween decorations this morning, (NOT my favorite holiday) I thought of all the masks and jars of make up being put away today.  I laughingly call women's make up, War Paint.  I guess for those of you who still put on makeup everyday--that must mean you put your mask on before you step out to greet the world.  When we take off those masks and strip off the make up, we are down to the "Real Me".  Here is a fact for all you who are younger, as you get older---many of us forego most makeup and in fact stick to the bare minimum.  I do need to cover up this sun damage I allowed to happen, and my red nose -thanks to a family propensity to rosacea, but many days I am sans makeup.  Beginning with the pandemic, I began to realize my skin was happier without wearing that daily mask.

Why do we wear make up---the same reason we put on masks at Halloween---we do not want anyone to recognize the "Real Me".  We are in disguise---trying to put our best foot forward by covering our flaws and enhancing our strengths.  One of the things I have noticed---my family sees me a great deal without makeup---and they love me---not in spite of how I look, but because they see past the exterior.  They know the real me---and how deeply I love them all.  They accept me for who I am--without need for change.  They love me age spots, wrinkles, and sags--because those are all there, because I lived life to the fullest and hope I gave them an example to strive for.

SO---there will come the day when we stand before God.  The wonderful thing about that day is He will see us through the veil of Christ.  We will be covered by the beauty of His love and grace.  What could be more beautiful?  No need for masks---no need for being anyone but who we are---A Sinner Saved By Grace.  

"For we are His workmanship,

created in Christ Jesus for good works,

which God prepared beforehand,

that we should walk in them."

Ephesians 2:10

CHECK UP

I am writing this on Halloween and I have been tricked.  (Always writing ahead so I can review and correct)   Today is the day for my annual mammogram.  NOW if there EVER was a dirty trick---it's having a mammogram.  WHO came up with this as being a good Idea?  NOW---I am thankful and know many lives have been saved by this test, BUT---could they not figure out a less painful way?  Imagine if all men had to have a certain part of their anatomy placed in a vise and not just squeezing, but cranking it down until it was flat as a pancake.    Then told to hold your breath while they make the picture.  They would have invented a better way pronto--in fact--they can take a simple blood test along with their other annual blood work and be done.  To add insult to injury, the radiologist then sends you a letter disclaiming ALL responsibility if they happen to miss a warning sign.  It turns out that is ALL the fault of the woman---she dared to have dense tissue.  WELL as you can tell, this is not my favorite day of the year.  The only thing I can think of that is worse is the colonoscopy.  When I had my last one done--post 70---I told the doctor I was D O N E.  From  now on I will just take my chances!  YES---I AM A GROUCHY OLD WOMAN!

That's me and all my density--far right!

WHERE could I possibly be going?  What if we had an annual checkup on our spiritual health?  What would your results look like?  Would you be the sparkling vision of health or the reflection of someone to dense to trust and obey?  Just saying!!!!  AND YES, I can pretty much take anything and write a post--LOL!

"Healthy people don't need a doctor,

but sick people do."

Matthew 9:12

 

DOWNCAST WITH DISAPPOINTMENT

This morning's walk in the dark was filled with deep thought.  This is being written before the time change and for the one reason that I will no longer be in the depths of darkness when out walking, I am glad for the change.  I am not fearful---but I am concerned about falls when the sidewalks are sometimes filled with cracks and bumps and the deep shadows with the huge trees make it even more difficult to navigate. On to the reason for the post!

Have you ever stopped to consider how closely intertwined our emotions can be?  We have talked before about the intenseness of love and hate.  I personally feel the more intense our love for someone the more likely that one occurrence can turn that love to intense hate.    Why would we hate anything we did not care about?  AND if we care deeply---so we can be deeply disappointed and maybe even at least temporarily filled with intense dislike (hatred).  As I have stated before, I truly hope to be at peace with this world in these final chapters.

Today I was thinking about disappointment.  I am in a period of disappointment at the moment about a couple of things.  This disappointment has been a nagging ache for a few months now.  As I walked and once again tried to think of a way to solve the problems---I could not for the life of me think of anything new to try.  Disappointment can crush your joy.  I am in the state of keeping a finger in the hole in the dam as the cracks around the hole begin to slowly leak my joy.  My head knows how much I have to be thankful for--how truly blessed I am, but my disappointment is whispering in my ear and telling me my efforts are all futile.

There is one salve which can soothe my soul---it is named hope.  Can I manage to look past my disappointments and grab on to the glimmer of hope?  Can the memory of disappointments of the past which were eventually either remedied or learned to live with give me the hope that this too shall pass?   My head knows God is faithful---my head knows, but I am battling with the enemy who wants me to be downcast.  I struggle---do we not all struggle?  BUT I keep looking to the One who knows my struggle and understands its source.  

"Humble yourselves, therefore,

under God's mighty hand,

that He may life you up in due time.

Cast all your anxiety on Him 

because He cares for you."

I Peter 5:6-7

 

YOU ARE WORTHY

 This is one of three large beds of Turk's Cap I have in my new to me back yard.  (Please ignore the lack of grass---that is a next spring project)  If you zoom in---you will see there are SO MANY small blooms all over the plants.  It has been a field day to watch the hummingbirds and butterflies feasting on all the little cap blooms.  What is amazing- in my eyes---I have cut this back twice since I moved in June and yet the largest bloom show is now---just as the hummers are getting ready for their LONG journey.  Why its as if the plant knows in its DNA that those little beauties are in their greatest need for fuel as October ends (I wrote this 2 weeks ago)  Most of the hummers have left with only the stragglers left behind since we have had a couple of cool snaps.  (Literally a snap since summer keeps returning after a day or two of cool)  BUT in the grand scheme---the design plan seems to be--the most blooms are produced at the most dire time of need.  WOW---what a chance coincidence---NOT!  God our Creator God---had the perfect plan for each and every living thing.  

"Worthy are you,

our Lord and God,

to receive glory and honor and power,

for You created all things,

and by Your will they existed 

and were created."

Revelation 4:11

ENOUGH

 NOTE-This was written two weeks ago--but after proofing it--I think we still need this reminder.  WHY---CAN'T WE JUST LOVE ONE ANOTHER--EVEN IN OUR DIFFERENCES?  My children are not like me---I did not birth clones of myself---we have our differences--but I can still listen to their opinions and love them --even if I do not agree. NOW on to the original post.

Merriam-Webster tells us the definition of enough is :

in or to a degree or quantity that satisfies or that is sufficient or necessary for satisfaction.

As a mother---I might offer additional definition-

to a degree or quantity that has crossed the line and become too much.

I recently saw a photo while scrolling on line with the word "Enough".  This began the wheels turning.  My first thought was the years my children were young and still at home.  They were experts at provoking me and me announcing 'ENOUGH!"  It could be fighting amongst themselves or arguing with me or rough-housing or taking the roof off the house with loud voices---many and varied activities drove me to announce "ENOUGH!"  It was almost always said in my Mean Momma voice and they knew I meant business.

I then started thinking about the current political environment.  Recently I once again heard the theory espoused that we are going to have a civil war.  When are we going to wake up and realize what a great nation we are blessed to live in?  What is it going to take to agree to disagree?  Are we going to allow this great experiment in democracy to fail?  When we are going to agree--ENOUGH--and concentrate on what we agree upon and not upon where we differ?  What ever happened to majority rule?

For now--I am praying--fervently, honestly---pleading for God to shower us with His grace that we might have His spirit of forgiveness.  PRAY---PRAY FOR AMERICA!

"Everyone on this earth will remember You, Lord.

People all over the world will turn and worship You,

because You are in control,

The Ruler of All Nations."

Psalms 22:27-28

ROTTEN TO THE CORE

 

This is one of many landscape problems which came along as an extra perk when I bought this new to me house.  Wondering what in the world?  This is the stump of a 100 +year old pecan the former owners had to remove.  WHY would they not have this stump ground at the same time--I cannot imagine.  Instead of grinding the stump they glued a heavy bird bath to it--perhaps thinking that would divert your attention from the stump.  IT DID NOT WORK!  So this stump has set there long enough since I moved in that it has begun  showing serious sign of serious rot and decay.  The first time I noticed it--I stepped on it and it sagged in.  I began working on seeing how much of it I could get to break off by hand and as you can see--I have made a start.  I need an axe--I will put that on my long list of things that did not make the move with me and I wish had.  The photo is deceiving--it is huge and goes way down---it will take a lot of dirt to fill all this in.  The source of the real problem is the stump is rotten to the core.  At times a left over stump will sprout a new tree.  For whatever the reason, this did not happen.  (I'm no scientist)  So I am left with a rotten stump with no signs of life around it and a hazard waiting to happen hole.  If Hero falls in that hole, he may get injured and will have his feelings hurt for sure.  SO--when we allow something to fester and rot---the eventual decay will leave an ugly scar in the beautiful surroundings.   The time to stop the rot is LONG before the decay is visible.  If ignored and allowed to continue you will have only the remaining scar or hole to mark what once was a thing of great beauty.  When I look at this stump, I realize how much shade and life it provided for the homeowners and the local birds and animals.  At some point something which could kill the tree was allowed to slowly do its work.  Eventually all that was left was the stump and to add insult to injury (or death in this case) the remaining scar is ugly--filled with decay--and a reminder not of life, but of death.  WHOA! That is a heavy thought.

Of course, I am using this as an analogy and metaphor for sin.  Rot and decay---what ese could sin lead to?  I will leave you with that thought to ponder.

"For the one who sows to his flesh

 will reap from the flesh ruin

and destruction,

but the one who sows to the Spirit

will from the Spirit reap eternal life."

Galatians 6:7-8

HANNAH WHO?

The stylist who cuts my hair is also working on a dual masters degree in theology.   Extremely interesting---even though they go to a liberal seminary, I love our discussions and always come away stimulated to think.   We do agree on the BIG POINT.  I am always questioning them and they are very learned and challenge my thinking.  The discussion ball was rolled recently when I asked, "Though the Old Testament is two-thirds of the Bible, I do not hear a like ratio of sermons based upon its teaching."  OFF WE WENT TO THE RACES!

The most interesting thing they told me concerned the story of Hannah in I Samuel.  Hannah is only mentioned once in the Bible in the first two chapters of I Samuel, and the stylist declared though the book is named for Samuel-- the most important narrative is this story of Hannah.  Their contention is that this is the first time the one on one relationship with God is acknowledged. Hannah prayed directly to God---not out loud as was the custom of the day--and she was a woman.   In most of the OT, the narrative is about the community of God's chosen people---as a group.  When I questioned---what about the relationship with God of Adam and Eve in the Creation Story--I was told disregard that story.  There was an acknowledgement of Moses having a one on one relationship (explained by He was chosen)  and Job (one of the oldest books in the Bible and perhaps my favorite book) speaking with God.  As I have thought it over since that discussion---I decided this belief was gleamed from the fact of Hannah being a woman (low on the totem pole at the time--sometimes not even included in the totem pole) and the fact she was a commoner as the Brits call anyone who is not royal.  She was one of us.  She prayed to God--in the temple which was normally reserved for men and He answered her prayer.  A one on one relationship demonstrated. Though we often refer to the death of Jesus tearing the curtain and allowing us access to God, that access was often allowed-without a priest to be the go between--when strong faith was present and a spirit of contrition and the knowledge that  God was the answer.

I hope you are as stimulated to think as I was.  We both agreed this was a point that our personal beliefs and experiences strongly influences.  As my writing is heavily influenced by my life experiences, those that I have followed their teachings, and the awakening of truth by the Holy Spirit----all those and more color what I write--what I say--and how I act.  Today I leave you to explore your opinion--your belief--and what you believe to be truth.  God blesses our searching and will reveal Himself if we only seek Him.

"God's Spirit has shown you everything.

His Spirit finds out everything even what is deep in the mind of God."

I Corinthians 2:10

"Every word we speak was taught to us by God's Spirit,

not by human wisdom."

I Corinthians 2:13

ON DOWN THE ROAD

 My memory is fading faster than blue jeans in a hot wash.  When I looked through my notes on potential blogs this morning, I found a great one--but for the life of me I do not remember where the idea came from.  Go ahead--take the credit--whoever gave me the idea and I sincerely apologize for failing to thank you.  I am now at the point of diminishing returns when it comes to memories.  AND, it is not just recent events I cannot remember---I am not certain I had a childhood---those memories are sailing away also.  BUT as I tell my offspring---it is just like the WWW that now surrounds us---it is always there---the problem can be finding what you are looking for.

Today--I am focused on Thanksgiving---and then Christmas.  They are so close together it is difficult to separate them.  My youngest grand has a name for his parents---MOMMYDADDY---all one word.  Recently when he was in my care I began to lay the groundwork for bedtime.  He quickly informed me "I need to wait for MOMMYDADDY to come home."  I am a sucker and also an idiot at times---I thought if I got him quiet watching a movie he would go to sleep on the couch.  I was in trouble when they opened that door after 9:00 and he was still awake.  Sorry--but one happy grand trumps parents' rules in my book almost all the time.

Back to the subject---so at the moment I am planning our Thanksgiving feast while also beginning to think about Christmas.  Somehow I get it in my head--today will take care of itself and I need to focus on the next future "event".  The day to day--I tend to perform by rote, without much thought or planning.  Automatic pilot is my setting when it comes to the moment I am in.  No elaborate planning--not much thought about what I am doing--just going through the motions of the day to day.  NOW--those BIG events out in the future--they get a great deal of thought---and perhaps an acknowledgement of my failure to be planning.  BUT here is the thing---I truly enjoy those BIG occasions BUT most of the time I enjoy the days leading up to and sometimes even the lull following them-perhaps even more.  Placing a lot of importance in an event in the future precludes acknowledging the joy of the preparation and the rehashing and reflection after all is said and done.  The note I made on my blog idea log says it so well~

"Are you guilty of looking ahead instead of at what is right in front of you:"

Are we able to take each day as it comes and live in the moment of that which we have?    At this point in life--there is no guarantee I will be around for that next "Big Event".  This has caused me to pause---and reflect---and hopefully do a better job of living in the moment I am in and be thankful.  We are not guaranteed tomorrow-only the present moment.  Asking God to help me stay present in each moment and giving Him thanks.

"Don't worry about tomorrow.

It will take care of itself.

You have enough to worry about today."

Matthew 6:34 CEV

LIFE INTERRUPTED

 During World War II, my parents had a huge life interruption.  With the onset of the war, the world turned upside down and everything was pointed toward defeating the aggressors.  Millions of couples and families were separated when the men left for a war being fought on battlefields thousands of miles away.  When I reflect on that time, the sketchy parts I have been told are momma living and working in Farmerville (my Daddy's hometown) after losing their first baby, who was still born, and Daddy being stationed in the European Theater.  They were apart for a long time and each was living life separate from the other.  

We have all experienced life being interrupted---sometimes for short periods and others for long.  The biggest interruption for us all in the last few years was the shut down during the early parts of the pandemic.  In many ways, I actually enjoyed that period of time.  I attempted new arts, read lots of books, watched movies, worked in my yard and took my daily walks while still practicing social distancing.  My friends and I got together in my large garage and spread out and visited.  We were not able to play games as we had in the past, but we enjoyed the company of each other.  In many ways it was an introvert's dream come true.  I took that interruption and made the most of it.  As with day to day life---the worst part was the loss of many friends to the dreaded virus and the suffering and long term effects others endured while sick with it. 

Interruptions can come for short periods---I had the flu last year for 10 days and did nothing but sleep and visit the porcelain throne to empty the meager contents of my stomach.  After 10 days, my life quickly went back to normal.  You could possibly look at major holidays as interruptions.  My mantra has always been--it is one day.  The major part of the interruption usually comes with the preparations and sometimes the clean up to establish normal once again. When we lose a loved one it is a major interruption which completely changes our lives.  There is no possibility of a return to what we consider normal.  We are then forced to create a new normal.  Some illnesses cause not only an interruption, but a change in life style once we are over the worst of it.  Put this in your book---life will be interrupted.

 We all experience interruptions in life--the question becomes how do we handle those interruptions?  Are we able to return to "normal" easily?  I can only speak for myself, but the pandemic created a huge change in my life.  I developed new habits--new patterns which I continued even after the worst of the scare had passed.  When I think of Momma and Daddy--they immediately tried to return to normal by starting the family they had to delay after Daddy went to war and they lost her son.  I think of all the men and women who returned from that war and each and every one of them trying to return to normal as quickly as possible after the world was interrupted.  Interruptions are inevitable---our character is revealed by how we handle them and how we adapt when life has been changed.  Do we still look to God for strength AND most importantly---are we able to acknowledge---He was not surprised by the interruption and can use it for our good?  

I am certain there are interruptions in the future--maybe soon--maybe far in the future---maybe minor hiccups-maybe life altering breaks.   As that silly movie, "Ghost Busters" so clearly stated "Who ya' gonna call?"  There is only One who can help!

"God is our mighty fortress,

always ready to help

in times of trouble.

And so, we won't be afraid!"

Psalms 46:1-2

NEVER REALLY GONE

 There is a stark fact about the season of life I am currently in---my friends, family, and peers have been shrinking most of my life---but lately it seems to be a landslide.  My high school classmates are beginning to dwindle, I am now among the senior members of my family, many of my peers are dealing with serious health complications, and when those of younger generations begin to leave--it causes me to pause.  My days are numbered---only God knows the number---but I ask Him to use me as long as I am on this terrestrial ball.  Once again I must repeat----WE DO NOT GET OUT OF THIS ALIVE.  One realization I have recently had is Eternity with Jesus is more and more appealing.  My leaving does not frighten me---I know where I am headed, but those who have left before me that I loved dearly---I miss greatly.  There are times I stop and think about how I would love one more sit down with them---how I miss there physical presence---how my world has changed with their absence.  All because of my memories of the time we had together.

Moving has been a rehearsal of the final goodbye.  I am well know for my Irish Goodbyes---sneaking away--without fanfare.  With the stoic upbringing I had, I find it difficult to deal with sad "Goodbyes".  There is a wellspring of tears I have held back and stifled over a lifetime.  Occasionally the dam bursts--but I am once again---keeping them at bay.  My remedy for the tears flowing is to avoid the cause, quietly turn my back and walk away in order to keep it all in check.  Say what you will--but our upbringing is very difficult to ignore or overcome--for me especially in allowing others to see my pain.  Though I find myself teared up a great deal as I get older, I still have them carefully dammed up.  I no longer feel I should hide my grief, but do not want to make a public display of it.  So I save the river of tears---for moments of privacy.  

One of my recent moments of clarity is we always have those who have left us with us--in our memories.  As long as I am breathing---they are with me.  Even those who have been gone a long-long time---are present with us in our recollections of the past.  God gave us a memory---as a gift of solace for those no long physically with us.  When I am gone---my children and grandchildren will remember me---keep me with them---probably laugh a lot about all my quirks and foibles.  I really hope they remember me and smile---and laugh in fondness for who I am.  BUT--without God giving us these  memories--we would be truly gone.  SO--I am thankful for all those I remember---some daily--others on occasion of reminders of their impact on my life.  What a precious gift from God---our memories.  Today I leave you with a powerful quote~

"God gave us memory so that 

we might have roses in December."

J.M. Barrie

BEHIND CLOSED DOORS

 There is an entire new industry that has come about in the last few years---"STAGING".  Now in fairness to the industry there have been interior decorators around for a LONG time.  My use of these talented people has involved---"Please limit my choice to 3 and if I do not like any of those we will look again."  I am easily overwhelmed by too many choices--thus I do not like to shop.  I know what I like and have been told my style is "Comfortable".  What could possibly be wrong with your home inviting use?  None of us try to live in a museum or art gallery.   None of us should want things which cannot be used or even touched.  SO---my style is "Please come in and enjoy yourself."  It makes me happy---and that should be the point---NOT is this magazine spread worthy.  

The stress I have been "enjoying" has come from trying to sell a house in a down market while owning and living in my new to me house.  I usually do not share personal details--but this is the background for the post.  We will not discuss all the hoops I have jumped through trying to sell a home in a flat market.  ON TO THE REASON FOR THE POST~

The house is empty since both myself and my son's family have bought homes and have been in them for a few months.  SO---we are using stagers to show the possibilities with the house which stands empty.  It is a very nice home---only 12 years old and built in the style of the neighborhood filled Craftsman Designs.  We loved living there---BUT it is great home for a large family or two families trying to live together (Momma is NOT easy to live with---ALL ON ME).  So we both bought smaller homes---and the house has been showing empty.  Most are not able to look at a blank slate and imagine the possibilities.  The stagers are showing them the possibilities.  They did a great job---BUT it is all a fairytale---Once upon a time this looked like this.  We all like stories--especially happily ever after stores.  The problem becomes trying to live out those fairytales in real life.  What the eye sees is not what is behind closed doors.  We all struggle for approval--and want the world to think we have our act together--thus a pristine facade presentation to the public.  HERE is the truth of the matter--we may can fool all the people on the outside, but God is in the Inside and knows exactly who we are---and the real picture.  BUT God---God desires you to invite Him in---things do not have to be eye pleasing---pristine---magazine ready.  We can lay out our truth at His Feet and He loves us in spite of who we are.  What a perfect picture of love and grace.

"You have searched me, Lord,

and you know me."

Psalm 139:1