|
Feb 11 |
A Father, a Daughter and a Dog1 comments · Posted by Bud |
- story by
Catherine Moore
WELL WORTH READING.....Here ya go tuff guy
"Watch out! You
nearly broad sided that car!" My father yelled at me. "Can't
you do anything right?"
Those words hurt worse than blows. I turned my head toward the elderly man in the seat beside me, daring me to challenge him. A lump rose in my throat as I averted my eyes. I wasn't prepared for another battle.
"I saw the car, Dad . Please don't yell at me when I'm driving...."
My voice was measured and steady, sounding far calmer than I really felt.
Dad glared at me, then turned away and settled back. At home I left Dad in front of the television and went outside to collect my thoughts.... dark, heavy clouds hung in the air with a promise of rain. The rumble of distant thunder seemed to echo my inner turmoil. What could I do about him?
Dad had been a lumberjack in Washington and Oregon . He had enjoyed being outdoors and had reveled in pitting his strength against the forces of nature. He had entered grueling lumberjack competitions, and had placed often. The shelves in his house were filled with trophies that attested to his prowess.
The years marched on relentlessly. The first time he couldn't lift a heavy log, he joked about it; but later that same day I saw him outside alone, straining to lift it. He became irritable whenever anyone teased him about his advancing age, or when he couldn't do something he had done as a younger man.
Four days after his sixty-seventh birthday, he had a heart attack. An ambulance sped him to the hospital while a paramedic administered CPR to keep blood and oxygen flowing.
At the hospital, Dad was rushed into an operating room. He was lucky; he survived. But something inside Dad died. His zest for life was gone. He obstinately refused to follow doctor's orders. Suggestions and offers of help were turned aside with sarcasm and insults. The number of visitors thinned, then finally stopped altogether. Dad was left alone..
My husband, Dick, and I asked Dad to come live with us on our small farm. We hoped the fresh air and rustic atmosphere would help him adjust.
Within a week after he moved in, I regretted the invitation. It seemed nothing was satisfactory. He criticized everything I did. I became frustrated and moody. Soon I was taking my pent-up anger out on Dick. We began to bicker and argue.
Alarmed, Dick sought out our pastor and explained the situation. The clergyman set up weekly counseling appointments for us. At the close of each session he prayed, asking God to soothe Dad 's troubled mind.
But the months wore on and God was silent. Something had to be done and it was up to me to do it.
The next day I sat down with the phone book and methodically called each of the mental health clinics listed in the Yellow Pages. I explained my problem to each of the sympathetic voices that answered in vain.
Just when I was giving up hope, one of the voices suddenly exclaimed, "I just read something that might help you! Let me go get the article.."
I listened as she read. The article described a remarkable study done at a nursing home. All of the patients were under treatment for chronic depression. Yet their attitudes had improved dramatically when they were given responsibility for a dog.
I drove to the animal shelter that afternoon.. After I filled out a questionnaire, a uniformed officer led me to the kennels. The odor of disinfectant stung my nostrils as I moved down the row of pens. Each contained five to seven dogs. Long-haired dogs, curly-haired dogs,black dogs, spotted dogs all jumped up, trying to reach me. I studied each one but rejected one after the other for various reasons too big, too small, too much hair. As I neared the last pen a dog in the shadows of the far corner struggled to his feet, walked to the front of the run and sat down. It was a pointer, one of the dog world's aristocrats. But this was a caricature of the breed.
Years had etched his face and muzzle with shades of gray. His hip bones jutted out in lopsided triangles. But it was his eyes that caught and held my attention. Calm and clear, they beheld me unwaveringly.
I pointed to the dog. "Can you tell me about him?" The officer looked, then shook his head in puzzlement. "He's a funny one. Appeared out of nowhere and sat in front of the gate. We brought him in, figuring someone would be right down to claim him. That was two weeks ago and we've heard nothing. His time is up tomorrow." He gestured helplessly.
As the words sank in I turned to the man in horror.. "You mean you're going to kill him?"
"Ma'am," he said gently, "that's our policy. We don't have room for every unclaimed dog."
I looked at the pointer again. The calm brown eyes awaited my decision. "I'll take him," I said. I drove home with the dog on the front seat beside me.. When I reached the house I honked the horn twice. I was helping my prize out of the car when Dad shuffled onto the front porch... "Ta-da! Look what I got for you, Dad !" I said excitedly.
Dad looked, then wrinkled his face in disgust. "If I had wanted a dog I would have gotten one. And I would have picked out a better specimen than that bag of bones. Keep it! I don't want it" Dad waved his arm scornfully and turned back toward the house.
Anger rose inside me. It squeezed together my throat muscles and pounded into my temples. "You'd better get used to him, Dad . He's staying!"
Dad ignored me... "Did you hear me, Dad ?" I screamed. At those words Dad whirled angrily, his hands clenched at his sides, his eyes narrowed and blazing with hate. We stood glaring at each other like duelists, when suddenly the pointer pulled free from my grasp. He wobbled toward my dad and sat down in front of him. Then slowly, carefully, he raised his paw...
Dad 's lower jaw trembled as he stared at the uplifted paw Confusion replaced the anger in his eyes. The pointer waited patiently. Then Dad was on his knees hugging the animal.
It was the beginning of a warm and intimate friendship. Dad named the pointer Cheyenne . Together he and Cheyenne explored the community. They spent long hours walking down dusty lanes. They spent reflective moments on the banks of streams, angling for tasty trout. They even started to attend Sunday services together, Dad sitting in a pew and Cheyenne lying quietly at is feet.
Dad and Cheyenne were inseparable throughout the next three years.. Dad 's bitterness faded, and he and Cheyenne made many friends. Then late one night I was startled to feel Cheyenne 's cold nose burrowing through our bed covers. He had never before come into our bedroom at night.. I woke Dick, put on my robe and ran into my father's room. Dad lay in his bed, his face serene. But his spirit had left quietly sometime during the night.
Two days later my shock and grief deepened when I discovered Cheyenne lying dead beside Dad 's bed. I wrapped his still form in the rag rug he had slept on. As Dick and I buried him near a favorite fishing hole, I silently thanked the dog for the help he had given me in restoring Dad 's peace of mind.
The morning of Dad 's funeral dawned overcast and dreary. This day looks like the way I feel, I thought, as I walked down the aisle to the pews reserved for family. I was surprised to see the many friends Dad and Cheyenne had made filling the church. The pastor began his eulogy. It was a tribute to both Dad and the dog who had changed his life.
And then the pastor turned to Hebrews 13:2. "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it."
"I've often thanked God for sending that angel," he said.
For me, the past dropped into place, completing a puzzle that I had not seen before: the sympathetic voice that had just read the right article... Cheyenne 's unexpected appearance at the animal shelter...his calm acceptance and complete devotion to my father...and the proximity of their deaths. And suddenly I understood. I knew that God had answered my prayers after all.
Life is too short for drama
Those words hurt worse than blows. I turned my head toward the elderly man in the seat beside me, daring me to challenge him. A lump rose in my throat as I averted my eyes. I wasn't prepared for another battle.
"I saw the car, Dad . Please don't yell at me when I'm driving...."
My voice was measured and steady, sounding far calmer than I really felt.
Dad glared at me, then turned away and settled back. At home I left Dad in front of the television and went outside to collect my thoughts.... dark, heavy clouds hung in the air with a promise of rain. The rumble of distant thunder seemed to echo my inner turmoil. What could I do about him?
Dad had been a lumberjack in Washington and Oregon . He had enjoyed being outdoors and had reveled in pitting his strength against the forces of nature. He had entered grueling lumberjack competitions, and had placed often. The shelves in his house were filled with trophies that attested to his prowess.
The years marched on relentlessly. The first time he couldn't lift a heavy log, he joked about it; but later that same day I saw him outside alone, straining to lift it. He became irritable whenever anyone teased him about his advancing age, or when he couldn't do something he had done as a younger man.
Four days after his sixty-seventh birthday, he had a heart attack. An ambulance sped him to the hospital while a paramedic administered CPR to keep blood and oxygen flowing.
At the hospital, Dad was rushed into an operating room. He was lucky; he survived. But something inside Dad died. His zest for life was gone. He obstinately refused to follow doctor's orders. Suggestions and offers of help were turned aside with sarcasm and insults. The number of visitors thinned, then finally stopped altogether. Dad was left alone..
My husband, Dick, and I asked Dad to come live with us on our small farm. We hoped the fresh air and rustic atmosphere would help him adjust.
Within a week after he moved in, I regretted the invitation. It seemed nothing was satisfactory. He criticized everything I did. I became frustrated and moody. Soon I was taking my pent-up anger out on Dick. We began to bicker and argue.
Alarmed, Dick sought out our pastor and explained the situation. The clergyman set up weekly counseling appointments for us. At the close of each session he prayed, asking God to soothe Dad 's troubled mind.
But the months wore on and God was silent. Something had to be done and it was up to me to do it.
The next day I sat down with the phone book and methodically called each of the mental health clinics listed in the Yellow Pages. I explained my problem to each of the sympathetic voices that answered in vain.
Just when I was giving up hope, one of the voices suddenly exclaimed, "I just read something that might help you! Let me go get the article.."
I listened as she read. The article described a remarkable study done at a nursing home. All of the patients were under treatment for chronic depression. Yet their attitudes had improved dramatically when they were given responsibility for a dog.
I drove to the animal shelter that afternoon.. After I filled out a questionnaire, a uniformed officer led me to the kennels. The odor of disinfectant stung my nostrils as I moved down the row of pens. Each contained five to seven dogs. Long-haired dogs, curly-haired dogs,black dogs, spotted dogs all jumped up, trying to reach me. I studied each one but rejected one after the other for various reasons too big, too small, too much hair. As I neared the last pen a dog in the shadows of the far corner struggled to his feet, walked to the front of the run and sat down. It was a pointer, one of the dog world's aristocrats. But this was a caricature of the breed.
Years had etched his face and muzzle with shades of gray. His hip bones jutted out in lopsided triangles. But it was his eyes that caught and held my attention. Calm and clear, they beheld me unwaveringly.
I pointed to the dog. "Can you tell me about him?" The officer looked, then shook his head in puzzlement. "He's a funny one. Appeared out of nowhere and sat in front of the gate. We brought him in, figuring someone would be right down to claim him. That was two weeks ago and we've heard nothing. His time is up tomorrow." He gestured helplessly.
As the words sank in I turned to the man in horror.. "You mean you're going to kill him?"
"Ma'am," he said gently, "that's our policy. We don't have room for every unclaimed dog."
I looked at the pointer again. The calm brown eyes awaited my decision. "I'll take him," I said. I drove home with the dog on the front seat beside me.. When I reached the house I honked the horn twice. I was helping my prize out of the car when Dad shuffled onto the front porch... "Ta-da! Look what I got for you, Dad !" I said excitedly.
Dad looked, then wrinkled his face in disgust. "If I had wanted a dog I would have gotten one. And I would have picked out a better specimen than that bag of bones. Keep it! I don't want it" Dad waved his arm scornfully and turned back toward the house.
Anger rose inside me. It squeezed together my throat muscles and pounded into my temples. "You'd better get used to him, Dad . He's staying!"
Dad ignored me... "Did you hear me, Dad ?" I screamed. At those words Dad whirled angrily, his hands clenched at his sides, his eyes narrowed and blazing with hate. We stood glaring at each other like duelists, when suddenly the pointer pulled free from my grasp. He wobbled toward my dad and sat down in front of him. Then slowly, carefully, he raised his paw...
Dad 's lower jaw trembled as he stared at the uplifted paw Confusion replaced the anger in his eyes. The pointer waited patiently. Then Dad was on his knees hugging the animal.
It was the beginning of a warm and intimate friendship. Dad named the pointer Cheyenne . Together he and Cheyenne explored the community. They spent long hours walking down dusty lanes. They spent reflective moments on the banks of streams, angling for tasty trout. They even started to attend Sunday services together, Dad sitting in a pew and Cheyenne lying quietly at is feet.
Dad and Cheyenne were inseparable throughout the next three years.. Dad 's bitterness faded, and he and Cheyenne made many friends. Then late one night I was startled to feel Cheyenne 's cold nose burrowing through our bed covers. He had never before come into our bedroom at night.. I woke Dick, put on my robe and ran into my father's room. Dad lay in his bed, his face serene. But his spirit had left quietly sometime during the night.
Two days later my shock and grief deepened when I discovered Cheyenne lying dead beside Dad 's bed. I wrapped his still form in the rag rug he had slept on. As Dick and I buried him near a favorite fishing hole, I silently thanked the dog for the help he had given me in restoring Dad 's peace of mind.
The morning of Dad 's funeral dawned overcast and dreary. This day looks like the way I feel, I thought, as I walked down the aisle to the pews reserved for family. I was surprised to see the many friends Dad and Cheyenne had made filling the church. The pastor began his eulogy. It was a tribute to both Dad and the dog who had changed his life.
And then the pastor turned to Hebrews 13:2. "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it."
"I've often thanked God for sending that angel," he said.
For me, the past dropped into place, completing a puzzle that I had not seen before: the sympathetic voice that had just read the right article... Cheyenne 's unexpected appearance at the animal shelter...his calm acceptance and complete devotion to my father...and the proximity of their deaths. And suddenly I understood. I knew that God had answered my prayers after all.
Life is too short for drama
or petty things, so laugh hard,
love truly and
forgive quickly.
Live While You Are Alive.
Forgive now those
who made you cry.
You might not get a second
time.
And if you don't send this link to
And if you don't send this link to
at least 4 people ---nobody cares?
But do share
this with someone.
Lost time can never be found.
God answers our prayers in His time......
God answers our prayers in His time......
..and his way..not
ours..
Thank God for that, He dose not Mess up. We Do
| Mood: | Music: | Location: |
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Jan 19 |
Love That Never Lets You GoNo comments · Posted by Bud |
He's hurting again, Lord, and there's nothing I can do about it. It's been such a long ordeal. How much can he endure?
She moved out . . . she's gone . . . what did I say? What did I do? God, I tried so hard to be the mother she needed me to be.
How long is this going to go on? I don't think I can endure the loneliness another single day.
Cast your burden upon the Lord, and He will sustain you.
Psalm 55:22
Casting all your anxiety upon Him,
because He cares for you.
I Peter 5:7
What do you do with your burdens? People and circumstances that seem to drain every ounce of your strength, things you would like to give to the Lord but just can't seem to let go of?
God showed me how to give my burdens to Him . . . a simple little exercise, but oh so wonderful to experience. I'd like to share it with you.
You'll need about 30 minutes alone. Gather a few things together from home: an envelope, a piece of paper, a pen, a watch (preferably with a second hand), and a felt-tipped pen. Go buy a helium-filled balloon. Then immediately go somewhere where there are no obstacles, no trees or buildings--maybe a deserted football stadium or a park or a lake.
Take all your paraphernalia with you to the edge of the water or the center of the field. Write about your burden on the balloon with your felt-tipped pen, anything that will help you associate that balloon with your problem. Find a rock about the size of a half-brick, and hold it and the string to your balloon in your hand, lifting it with a straight arm at a 45-degree angle. Heavy, isn't it?
Begin talking to the Lord about your burden--all your thoughts, your fears, the pain, the destroyed dreams. As you are praying, your arm is going to get awfully tired. Keep right on praying. Tell Him everything. Any of the thoughts that you have had--vomit it all out--if there is bitterness, anger, depression--all of it.
By now you're crying, and you can't separate the emotional pain from the physical pain you're experiencing because your arm is hurting so badly. Then, when you cannot hold your arm up another single second, say something like this: "Lord, You have commanded me to give my burdens to You. I can't handle this. It's too much for me. I can't hold onto it any longer. You must take it." In Jesus name I Pray. Drop the rock, release the string, and watch that burden float up into the heavens--into the open, waiting arms of God.
Thank Him for telling you to give Him your burden--and for taking it. Look at your watch and record the time and date on your piece of paper. Write this: On (date/time), I gave my burden to the Lord. And He took it. (Print that last line.)
Look up into the sky and find that tiny speck. It's His--it is no longer yours. It's not in your hand. He told you to give it to Him, and you did. Now fold your paper and put it in your envelope (where is the balloon? catch one last glimpse of it). Seal it, and on the outside write "GOD" and then the date.
When you get home, get an index card and cut it into strips. On each strip write just the date. Put a strip over the sink, one in your bathroom medicine cabinet by your toothbrush, one on the dash of your car--anyplace where you can glance at it--and thank Jesus for taking your burden. (Close your eyes and visualize that speck in the sky again.)
Please know that I love you. I understand. Oh, not completely, but I long to help. I pray that this simple exercise will give you peace. Remember, your emotions are not the barometer of peace. KNOWING that He has taken your burden and will handle it with wisdom and loving tenderness is the key to peace. (Remember how that balloon went straight to Him when you released it?) Think on these things.
Just as my child brings his broken toys
with tears
for me to mend,
I took my broken dreams to God
because He was my Friend.
But then . . . instead of leaving Him
in peace
to work alone,
I hung around and tried to help
with ways that were my own.
At last I snatched them back
and cried,
"How could You be so slow?"
"What could I do, My child?" He said.
"You never did let go."
Faith Mitchner
She moved out . . . she's gone . . . what did I say? What did I do? God, I tried so hard to be the mother she needed me to be.
How long is this going to go on? I don't think I can endure the loneliness another single day.
Cast your burden upon the Lord, and He will sustain you.
Psalm 55:22
Casting all your anxiety upon Him,
because He cares for you.
I Peter 5:7
What do you do with your burdens? People and circumstances that seem to drain every ounce of your strength, things you would like to give to the Lord but just can't seem to let go of?
God showed me how to give my burdens to Him . . . a simple little exercise, but oh so wonderful to experience. I'd like to share it with you.
You'll need about 30 minutes alone. Gather a few things together from home: an envelope, a piece of paper, a pen, a watch (preferably with a second hand), and a felt-tipped pen. Go buy a helium-filled balloon. Then immediately go somewhere where there are no obstacles, no trees or buildings--maybe a deserted football stadium or a park or a lake.
Take all your paraphernalia with you to the edge of the water or the center of the field. Write about your burden on the balloon with your felt-tipped pen, anything that will help you associate that balloon with your problem. Find a rock about the size of a half-brick, and hold it and the string to your balloon in your hand, lifting it with a straight arm at a 45-degree angle. Heavy, isn't it?
Begin talking to the Lord about your burden--all your thoughts, your fears, the pain, the destroyed dreams. As you are praying, your arm is going to get awfully tired. Keep right on praying. Tell Him everything. Any of the thoughts that you have had--vomit it all out--if there is bitterness, anger, depression--all of it.
By now you're crying, and you can't separate the emotional pain from the physical pain you're experiencing because your arm is hurting so badly. Then, when you cannot hold your arm up another single second, say something like this: "Lord, You have commanded me to give my burdens to You. I can't handle this. It's too much for me. I can't hold onto it any longer. You must take it." In Jesus name I Pray. Drop the rock, release the string, and watch that burden float up into the heavens--into the open, waiting arms of God.
Thank Him for telling you to give Him your burden--and for taking it. Look at your watch and record the time and date on your piece of paper. Write this: On (date/time), I gave my burden to the Lord. And He took it. (Print that last line.)
Look up into the sky and find that tiny speck. It's His--it is no longer yours. It's not in your hand. He told you to give it to Him, and you did. Now fold your paper and put it in your envelope (where is the balloon? catch one last glimpse of it). Seal it, and on the outside write "GOD" and then the date.
When you get home, get an index card and cut it into strips. On each strip write just the date. Put a strip over the sink, one in your bathroom medicine cabinet by your toothbrush, one on the dash of your car--anyplace where you can glance at it--and thank Jesus for taking your burden. (Close your eyes and visualize that speck in the sky again.)
Please know that I love you. I understand. Oh, not completely, but I long to help. I pray that this simple exercise will give you peace. Remember, your emotions are not the barometer of peace. KNOWING that He has taken your burden and will handle it with wisdom and loving tenderness is the key to peace. (Remember how that balloon went straight to Him when you released it?) Think on these things.
Just as my child brings his broken toys
with tears
for me to mend,
I took my broken dreams to God
because He was my Friend.
But then . . . instead of leaving Him
in peace
to work alone,
I hung around and tried to help
with ways that were my own.
At last I snatched them back
and cried,
"How could You be so slow?"
"What could I do, My child?" He said.
"You never did let go."
Faith Mitchner
| Mood: | Music: | Location: |
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Nov 20 |
The Wooden Bowl (PLEASE READ )No comments · Posted by Bud |
The Wooden Bowl
I guarantee you will remember the tale of the Wooden Bowl tomorrow, a week from now, a month from now,
A year from now.
A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year-old grandson.
The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered
The family ate together at the table. But the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and
Failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor.
When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth.
The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess.
'We must do something about father,' said the son.
'I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor.'
So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner.
There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner.
Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl.
When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone.
Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.
The four-year-old watched it all in silence.
One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor.
He asked the child sweetly, 'What are you making?' Just as sweetly, the boy responded,
'Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up.
' The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.
The words so struck the parents so that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.
That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table.
For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason,
Neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.
On a positive note, I've learned that, no matter what happens, how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.
I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles four things:
A rainy day, the elderly, lost luggage, and little children.
I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as making a 'life..'
I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.
I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands.You nee d to be able to throw something back sometimes.
I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you
But, if you focus on your family, your friends, the needs of others,
Your work and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you
I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.
I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.
I've learned that every day, you should reach out and touch someone.
People love that human touch -- holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.
I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.
I've learned that you should pass this on to everyone you care about. I just did.
FRIENDSHIP CANDLE
NOTICE AT THE END,
THE DATE THE CANDLE WAS STARTED.
GONNA GIVE YOU GOOSE BUMPS.
I am not going to be the one who lets it die. I found it believable --
Angels have walked beside me all my life--and they still do
*********************
This is to all of you who
Mean something to me,
I pray for your happiness.
I guarantee you will remember the tale of the Wooden Bowl tomorrow, a week from now, a month from now,
A year from now.
A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year-old grandson.
The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered
The family ate together at the table. But the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and
Failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor.
When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth.
The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess.
'We must do something about father,' said the son.
'I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor.'
So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner.
There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner.
Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl.
When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone.
Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.
The four-year-old watched it all in silence.
One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor.
He asked the child sweetly, 'What are you making?' Just as sweetly, the boy responded,
'Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up.
' The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.
The words so struck the parents so that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.
That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table.
For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason,
Neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.
On a positive note, I've learned that, no matter what happens, how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.
I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles four things:
A rainy day, the elderly, lost luggage, and little children.
I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as making a 'life..'
I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.
I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands.You nee d to be able to throw something back sometimes.
I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you
But, if you focus on your family, your friends, the needs of others,
Your work and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you
I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.
I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.
I've learned that every day, you should reach out and touch someone.
People love that human touch -- holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.
I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.
I've learned that you should pass this on to everyone you care about. I just did.
FRIENDSHIP CANDLE
NOTICE AT THE END,
THE DATE THE CANDLE WAS STARTED.
GONNA GIVE YOU GOOSE BUMPS.
I am not going to be the one who lets it die. I found it believable --
Angels have walked beside me all my life--and they still do
*********************
This is to all of you who
Mean something to me,
I pray for your happiness.
The Candle Of Love, Hope & Friendship
This candle was lit on the
15th of September, 1998
Someone who loves you has helped
Keep it alive by sending it to you.
Don't let The Candle of Love, Hope and Friendship die
Pass It On To All Of Your Friends
And Everyone You Love!
May God richly bless you!
This candle was lit on the
15th of September, 1998
Someone who loves you has helped
Keep it alive by sending it to you.
Don't let The Candle of Love, Hope and Friendship die
Pass It On To All Of Your Friends
And Everyone You Love!
May God richly bless you!
| Mood: | Music: | Location: |
|
Oct 05 |
Are You A Good Person? A Test2 comments · Posted by Bud |
Some people think that they are going to heaven because they are a good
person. Are you good enough to earn yourself to go to heaven?
Let's find out by just looking if you kept the 10 commandments:
Please be honest with yourself!
#9 Have you ever in your life lied?
If yes...what does that make you?....a liar.
#8 Have you ever stolen anything or taken anything that did not
belong to you...no matter how small?
If yes...what does that make you?...a thief.
#7 Have you ever committed adultery?
If you think not...think again...did you know that the bible says that even
if you just look at someone in lust, you've committed adultery in your heart
(Matthew 5:27 - 28). Have you ever looked at someone with lust? What
does that make you? That makes you an adulterer.
#3 Have you ever taken the lord's name in vain...even casually?
When we take the almighty God's name in vain that is called blasphemy.
God says that he will not hold anyone blameless who takes his name in
vain. What does that make you? It makes you a blasphemer.
#6 Have you ever murdered anyone?
The bible says that if you hate someone, you are a murderer in God's eyes
(1 John 3:15). God does not simply judge actions...he knows the intentions
of the heart.
#1 Have you always put God first in your life?
God says that you should be his primary love, even above your spouse,
your kids, even your own lives. Have you done that?
#2 Have you ever made an idol, a god that suits you?
Have you pursued money more than God? If so, you made money your
idol. How about your work...then work is your idol. If you think that God is
loving and he would never send me to hell. Then you're creating your own
God to fit your own life and that is called idolatry. It's the oldest sin in the
bible.
#5 Have you always treated your parents in a way that pleases God?
If not, that is considered a serious sin.
#10 Have you ever coveted or desired something that did not belong to you?
It reveals a lack of gratitude for what God has blessed you with.
#4 Have you kept the sabbath holy?
God requires us to take one day out of seven for us to rest and honor him.
How did you do?
The bible says - for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely
by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, Romans 3:23-24 (NKJV)
If God judged you by the 10 commandments on the day of judgement , will you be innocent
or guilty?
If you're honest with yourself, you would have to admit that you did not keep these 10
commandments. Your own conscience convicts you and tells you that you're a lier, thief,
an adulterer by hear, even a murderer. Think about it and be honest with yourself...will you
be innocent or guilty?
You might say that it's been a long time since I sinned. Imagine if you told said that in a court...judge, I know I'm
guilty but it's been months or even years. He won't ignore your crime. The court punishes war criminals even
decades after the fact. So, would you be innocent or guilty?
You might say that you've been more good than bad, or you might say that you're not as bad as someone else you
know. If you have broken the law, it does not matter how many good things you have done. You will be held
accountable.
Will you go to heaven or hell?
If you're honest, you would have to say "Hell". Some people say that "yes, I'm guilty, however, God is a good God,
so he'll let me in.
Imagine this. You're standing in a courtroom guilty of a very serious crime. The judge says, "you're guilty as
charged....is there anything you would like to say before sentencing?" You answer, "Yes judge. I'm sorry for what I
have done. Please forgive me. Can a good judge let you go simply because you're sorry? There is a ,000 fine
that needs to get paid. He would not be a good judge and would do injustice to the people who got hurt if he just let
you go. Imagine, if you were the one violated, would you feel that the judge was fair if he would let the guilty off the
hook? The fine has to be paid.
The bible makes it clear that if we die in our sins, we will go to hell. So will you go to heaven or hell? Hell is not a
place where you want to be...it's total agony for eternity.
Let me just make something clear. I'm not here to say that I'm any better than you...probably worse. I'm
guilty...we are all guilty if we're just honest with ourselves. So what can we do?
THE GOOD NEWS!
There is hope for me, for you, for us. God made a way for us to be forgiven. The question is, how do you access
this forgiveness? God loved us so much that he sent his own son to suffer and die in our place, taking on our
punishment for you and I so we can live. It is very simple...you broke the law and Jesus paid the fine. Then Jesus
rose from the dead and defeated death. The bible says...if you repent - turn away from your sins - and place your
trust in Jesus Christ as your savior, God will forgive you and grant you everlasting life. He will change you from the
inside out and will make you a new person in Christ. God loves you. Salvation is a gift from God. You can not
earn it, because it is impossible to earn it.
Pray this prayer.
"Dear God, I confess that I'm a sinner and that I need your forgiveness. I'm truly sorry for my sins and humbly ask
you to forgive me and cleanse me. I believe that Jesus died on the cross in my place and that he rose again for my
salvation. In faith I accept from you the gift of eternal life, and, with your help, I promise to serve you as long as I
live. I pray in Jesus' name. Amen"
person. Are you good enough to earn yourself to go to heaven?
Let's find out by just looking if you kept the 10 commandments:
Please be honest with yourself!
#9 Have you ever in your life lied?
If yes...what does that make you?....a liar.
#8 Have you ever stolen anything or taken anything that did not
belong to you...no matter how small?
If yes...what does that make you?...a thief.
#7 Have you ever committed adultery?
If you think not...think again...did you know that the bible says that even
if you just look at someone in lust, you've committed adultery in your heart
(Matthew 5:27 - 28). Have you ever looked at someone with lust? What
does that make you? That makes you an adulterer.
#3 Have you ever taken the lord's name in vain...even casually?
When we take the almighty God's name in vain that is called blasphemy.
God says that he will not hold anyone blameless who takes his name in
vain. What does that make you? It makes you a blasphemer.
#6 Have you ever murdered anyone?
The bible says that if you hate someone, you are a murderer in God's eyes
(1 John 3:15). God does not simply judge actions...he knows the intentions
of the heart.
#1 Have you always put God first in your life?
God says that you should be his primary love, even above your spouse,
your kids, even your own lives. Have you done that?
#2 Have you ever made an idol, a god that suits you?
Have you pursued money more than God? If so, you made money your
idol. How about your work...then work is your idol. If you think that God is
loving and he would never send me to hell. Then you're creating your own
God to fit your own life and that is called idolatry. It's the oldest sin in the
bible.
#5 Have you always treated your parents in a way that pleases God?
If not, that is considered a serious sin.
#10 Have you ever coveted or desired something that did not belong to you?
It reveals a lack of gratitude for what God has blessed you with.
#4 Have you kept the sabbath holy?
God requires us to take one day out of seven for us to rest and honor him.
How did you do?
The bible says - for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely
by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, Romans 3:23-24 (NKJV)
If God judged you by the 10 commandments on the day of judgement , will you be innocent
or guilty?
If you're honest with yourself, you would have to admit that you did not keep these 10
commandments. Your own conscience convicts you and tells you that you're a lier, thief,
an adulterer by hear, even a murderer. Think about it and be honest with yourself...will you
be innocent or guilty?
You might say that it's been a long time since I sinned. Imagine if you told said that in a court...judge, I know I'm
guilty but it's been months or even years. He won't ignore your crime. The court punishes war criminals even
decades after the fact. So, would you be innocent or guilty?
You might say that you've been more good than bad, or you might say that you're not as bad as someone else you
know. If you have broken the law, it does not matter how many good things you have done. You will be held
accountable.
Will you go to heaven or hell?
If you're honest, you would have to say "Hell". Some people say that "yes, I'm guilty, however, God is a good God,
so he'll let me in.
Imagine this. You're standing in a courtroom guilty of a very serious crime. The judge says, "you're guilty as
charged....is there anything you would like to say before sentencing?" You answer, "Yes judge. I'm sorry for what I
have done. Please forgive me. Can a good judge let you go simply because you're sorry? There is a ,000 fine
that needs to get paid. He would not be a good judge and would do injustice to the people who got hurt if he just let
you go. Imagine, if you were the one violated, would you feel that the judge was fair if he would let the guilty off the
hook? The fine has to be paid.
The bible makes it clear that if we die in our sins, we will go to hell. So will you go to heaven or hell? Hell is not a
place where you want to be...it's total agony for eternity.
Let me just make something clear. I'm not here to say that I'm any better than you...probably worse. I'm
guilty...we are all guilty if we're just honest with ourselves. So what can we do?
THE GOOD NEWS!
There is hope for me, for you, for us. God made a way for us to be forgiven. The question is, how do you access
this forgiveness? God loved us so much that he sent his own son to suffer and die in our place, taking on our
punishment for you and I so we can live. It is very simple...you broke the law and Jesus paid the fine. Then Jesus
rose from the dead and defeated death. The bible says...if you repent - turn away from your sins - and place your
trust in Jesus Christ as your savior, God will forgive you and grant you everlasting life. He will change you from the
inside out and will make you a new person in Christ. God loves you. Salvation is a gift from God. You can not
earn it, because it is impossible to earn it.
Pray this prayer.
"Dear God, I confess that I'm a sinner and that I need your forgiveness. I'm truly sorry for my sins and humbly ask
you to forgive me and cleanse me. I believe that Jesus died on the cross in my place and that he rose again for my
salvation. In faith I accept from you the gift of eternal life, and, with your help, I promise to serve you as long as I
live. I pray in Jesus' name. Amen"
The 10 Commandments of God
1. Thou shalt have no other gods
before me.
2. Thou shalt not make unto thee any
graven image.
3. Thou shalt not take the name of the
Lord thy God in vain.
4. Remember the sabbath day, to keep
it holy.
5. Honour thy father and thy mother.
6. Thou shalt not kill.
7. Thou shalt not commit adultery.
8. Thou shalt not steal.
9. Thou shalt not bear false witness
against thy neighbour.
10. Thou shalt not covet.
Exodus 20:1
1. Thou shalt have no other gods
before me.
2. Thou shalt not make unto thee any
graven image.
3. Thou shalt not take the name of the
Lord thy God in vain.
4. Remember the sabbath day, to keep
it holy.
5. Honour thy father and thy mother.
6. Thou shalt not kill.
7. Thou shalt not commit adultery.
8. Thou shalt not steal.
9. Thou shalt not bear false witness
against thy neighbour.
10. Thou shalt not covet.
Exodus 20:1
Discover God and grow in Christ by
God's Word through
Discover your True Biblical Identity
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Sep 10 |
-Shoes in churchNo comments · Posted by Bud |
I showered and shaved............. I adjusted my tie.
I got there and sat.............. In a pew just in time.
Bowing my head in prayer......... As I closed my eyes.
I saw the shoe of the man next to me..... Touching my own. I sighed.
With plenty of room on either side...... I thought, 'Why must our soles touch?'
It bothered me, his shoe touching mine... But it didn't bother him much.
A prayer began: 'Our Father'............. I thought, 'This man with the shoes, has no pride.
They're dusty, worn, and scratched. Even worse, there are holes on the side!'
'Thank You for blessings,' the prayer went on.
The shoe man said............... A quiet 'Amen.'
I tried to focus on the prayer....... But my thoughts were on his shoes again.
Aren't we supposed to look our best. When walking through that door?
'Well, this certainly isn't it,' I thought, Glancing toward the floor.
Then the prayer was ended........... And the songs of praise began.
The shoe man was certainly loud..... Sounding proud as he sang..
His voice lifted the rafters........ His hands were raised high.
The Lord could surely hear. The shoe man's voice from the sky.
It was time for the offering...... And what I threw in was steep.
I watched as the shoe man reached.... Into his pockets so deep.
I saw what was pulled out............ What the shoe man put in.
Then I heard a soft 'clink' . As when silver hits tin.
The sermon really bored me......... To tears, and that's no lie.
It was the same for the shoe man... For tears fell from his eyes.
At the end of the service...... As is the custom here.
We must greet new visitors, And show them all good cheer.
But I felt moved somehow............... And wanted to meet the shoe man.
So after the closing prayer......... I reached over and shook his hand.
He was old and his skin was dark..... And his hair was truly a mess.
But I thanked him for coming......... For being our guest.
He said, 'My names' Charlie............ I'm glad to meet you, my friend.'
There were tears in his eyes........ But he had a large, wide grin.
'Let me explain,' he said.......... Wiping tears from his eyes.
'I've been coming here for months.... And you're the first to say 'Hi.''
'I know that my appearance.........'Is not like all the rest.
'But I really do try...............'To always look my best.'
'I always clean and polish my shoes..'Before my very long walk.
'But by the time I get here.........'They're dirty and dusty, like chalk.'
My heart filled with pain.......... And I swallowed to hide my tears.
As he continued to apologize........ For daring to sit so near
He said, 'When I get here...........'I know I must look a sight.
'But I thought if I could touch you..'Then maybe our souls might unite.'
I was silent for a moment........... Knowing whatever was said
Would pale in comparison... I spoke from my heart, not my head.
'Oh, you've touched me,' I said......'And taught me, in part;
'That the best of any man............'Is what is found in his heart.'
The rest, I thought,.................. This shoe man will never know.
Like just how thankful I really am... That his dirty old shoe touched my soul
You are special to me and you have made a difference in my life.
I respect you, and truly cherish you.
Send this to your friends,
No matter how often you talk,
Or how close you are,
And send it to the person who sent it to you.
Let old friends know you haven't forgotten them, and tell new friends you never will.
Remember, everyone needs a friend..
Someday you might feel like you have no friends at all.
Just remember this and take comfort in knowing that
Someone out there cares about you.....
And always will.
Live each day as your last,as it could very well be!!!!!
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