Month: February 2011
Updated on March 2, 2013
Texas Independence
On March 1, 1836, 59 delegates met at Washington-on-the-Brazos and decided whether to declare their independence from an increasingly hostile Mexican government. By day 2, March 2nd, they had ratified and signed their declaration. The document listed several charges against Mexico including:
It denies us the right of worshipping the Almighty according to the dictates of our own conscience, by the support of a national religion, calculated to promote the temporal interest of its human functionaries, rather than the glory of the true and living God.
Posted on February 27, 2011
Writing Is Therapy
Writing for me is therapy. I’m a bit of a loner, in case you did not already figure that out. I have lots of friends and family, but I seem to keep most things to myself.
Men are taught to not show any weakness, as if emotions or honesty would be perceived as being weak. Conversations with other men tend to be about women, sports, women, cars, women, career, women, hunting and of course women. This would explain why I tend to prefer the company of women when it comes time to “talk.”
Updated on October 10, 2011
Mothers
I do not think there is any job more important than being a mom. Yes, fathers are important too, but your mother is constantly there, nurturing and teaching in ways that men usually can’t.
I lost my Mother in 1991. I miss her so much. I have blogged about her before and so some of this may be repeated. She was a woman ahead of her time. She worked for the military during World War 2, graduated from Southern Methodist University and was a career woman when that just wasn’t popular.
She worked for the 4H organizing activities and then later as what is now called a welfare case worker. She was a compassionate Christian and did her best to improve the lives of her clients. This was back when the actual goal was to get people OFF of government assistance instead of keeping them in poverty forever.
Updated on August 6, 2013
How To Buy A Mattress
If they list the 10 worst things that people hate doing, buying a mattress is probably right between going to the dentist and divorce court. There are few things as dreaded as negotiating the terror that is finding the correct mattress.
I have had the pleasure of selling mattresses for almost a decade. I tell customers that I sell sleep, not mattresses. What I mean by that statement is I sell based on the Golden Rule – treat people the way I wanted to be treated. How does that work in practice?
Updated on January 31, 2013
Why Does God Get the Blame?
Why Blame God?
The following blog post was in response to an article written asking why God allowed the Arizona shootings. No other topic brings out the passion in me than someone ignorantly blaming God for evil. The god of this world must be amused that he is never accused of anything.
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. — John 10:10 <NIV> (Jesus speaking)
In the beginning, man was given dominion over the earth, but through sin, he was disconnected from God. If he accepts Jesus as his Savior, he is reborn into God’s family and reconnected to God by the Holy Spirit. If he has not, he is spiritually connected to the thief (satan). There is no middle ground or “lawful neutral” options.
Updated on May 31, 2011
Lord, even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from the table.
Lord, even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from the table.
I am presently working on a page about Jesus healing the daughter of a Syrophoenician (Matthew 15:21-28 Mark 7:24-30). Part of this requires research to find other sources that might be helpful to my readers. I was so saddened by some of the commentary out there about our Lord and savior Jesus.
One page said that Jesus was tired and annoyed, so as a human, insulted the woman. Really? God is love and Jesus is the Son of God who never sinned, therefore he acted out of love?
Updated on February 26, 2011
A Thunderstorm Lesson
A Thunderstorm Lesson
Today, I found myself reading in my bedroom when a late summer storm hit. Boris is usually terrified by storms, but this time he came and crouched on my lap. As the thunder and lightning intensified, he would start to move towards the utility room, his favorite “safe” place during storms. But I would talk to him and get his focus back on me and he would settle back down. Then there would be another clap of thunder, or more intensity in the rain, and he would take his eyes and attention off of me and back on the storm. This went on for almost the entire duration of the storm.
Updated on February 7, 2011
Awareness Awareness Day
Awareness Awareness Day
Call me a cynic, you probably will, but I get a chuckle when I see these wristbands or “awareness bracelets”. Yea, I understand it makes the wearer feel better about him/herself and possibly raises some awareness for a noble cause. But it just seems like another feeble attempt of symbolism over substance. Sure there might be a small donation made to Breast Cancer Awareness(pink band), but I doubt it. More than likely it is just another act of slacktivisim. A word created by combining activisim with slacker. Although I would love to claim credit for coining this term, alas I cannot. But it is a perfect description of this practice.
Updated on February 7, 2011
Suggestions For Earth Day!
Suggestions For Earth Day!
As luck would have it, today is Earth Day, that wonderful day we celebrate the planet instead of its Creator. Al Gore be praised!
To help you make the most of this glorious day, here are some suggestions on how to make the most of it.
10. Vladimir Lenin’s Birthday – To celebrate Earth Day, and the birthday of Vladimir Lenin (one of the most ruthless socialists ever), whose 100th birthday just by pure coincidence fell on the first Earth Day in 1970, make a batch of no-bake cookies. Remember we don’t want to “waste” any energy today, so better do the no-bake kind. Decorate them with a red hammer and sickle in honor of Lenin!
Updated on January 31, 2013
God Does Not Abuse His Children!
God Does Not Abuse His Children!
“My (sickness) is one of the greatest gifts that God has given me.” — A Theologian
Recently, I read an article by a prominent theologian that made the point that his sickness was a “gift from God.” I edited his statement above and do not list his name. The point of this is not to judge or condemn this man.
But I am fascinated by Christians who make statements like the above – accusing my Heavenly Father of child abuse. Has he ever read John 10:10? Satan is the one that kills, steals and destroys. Jesus came to give you abundant life! Jesus healed everyone who believed and he is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. You will never find anywhere in the Gospels an instance where Jesus made somebody sick. And remember, if you have seen Jesus, you have seen God!
Updated on February 26, 2011
A Very Special Christmas Blog
A Very Special Christmas Blog
One of my favorite holiday movies is It’s A Wonderful Life. I’ve probably watched it 50 times and it never grows old. If you’ve never seen it, or just forgot the story, it involves a man named George Bailey. Now George has always wanted to do great things. But throughout his life, circumstances have caused him to settle for what he believes is a less than a wonderful life.
The pivotal moment comes when he is faced with a financial loss that will destroy his business and family. As he sits on the bridge considering suicide, an angel named Clarence intercedes to save his life. Since George thinks he is a failure, Clarence gives him the opportunity to see what his community would be like if he had never been born.
Updated on February 6, 2011
True Heroes
True Heroes
The “hero” title gets thrown around a whole lot these days. But since it is Veteran’s Day, I thought it appropriate to highlight a few Medal of Honor recipients through the years. What some of these men accomplished is extraordinary. If you ever have some free time, read all the MOH winners’ stories. These are some true American heroes.
World War 1
Alvin Cullum York (December 13, 1887 – September 2, 1964) was a United States soldier, famous as a World War I hero. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for leading an attack on a German machine gun nest, taking 32 machine guns, killing 28 German soldiers and capturing 132 others during the U.S.-led Meuse-Argonne Offensive in France.
Updated on July 1, 2011
Independence Day
Independence Day
Tomorrow of course is July 4th, the day we celebrate American Independence. For some its a time to travel, watch fireworks, go to the lake, or just relax. Few really appreciate all that transpired some 232 years ago in Philadelphia. So of course you have me to remind you.
By July of 1776, the Thirteen Colonies had been at war with Great Britain for over a year. At the start of hostilities, there were still many that had hoped for a peaceful settlement of grievances with the mother country. Among the many issues were excessive taxation and lack of representation. Also, the tyranny of King George and Parliament who saw the colonies as assets to exploit instead of citizens with rights of the Empire.
Updated on February 11, 2011
A Tribute To Audrey
A Tribute To Audrey
It wasn’t until later in life when I began to appreciate older films. It does seem at times like you’re watching a 90 minute smoking commercial with the proliferation of scenes with people puffing away and long dramatic moments involving close-ups of actors lighting their cigarettes. Otherwise, they are generally well acted and entertaining.
With the proliferation of cable television and nostalgic stations like AMC and TCM, there are many opportunities to watch and enjoy the great films around the clock. I especially like the weekends that are dedicated to one specific actor.
Posted on February 6, 2011
What Happened to the “Human” in Human Resources?
Early in my career I was fortunate to work for a wonderful businessman. His philosophy was very simple; “Treat everyone like they are your best customer, and they just might become just that.” I’ve tried to follow that advice throughout my career.
During this economic downturn, I have met many people who are looking for work. One common complaint is the lack of response from resume submissions. Let me explain. Imagine you are looking for work and find a listing that sounds interesting. You spend a couple of hours researching the company, customizing a cover letter and/or resume to fit the position, and then you send it to the company. And then, nothing happens. No call, no letter, no postcard, not even an automatic email reply is ever sent acknowledging your interest. Simply amazing!
Updated on February 6, 2011
Why Do Americans Love Reality TV?
Why Do Americans Love Reality TV?
I must confess, I do not watch much television anymore. There are many reasons for this: lack of interest, too busy, better things to do, and most importantly, television is just plain bad.
The latest truly bad fad to litter the airways is known as reality TV. The concept is fairly simple, put “ordinary” people in awkward situations so we can all laugh at what transpires. What about this attracts viewers is beyond me. I assume it appeals to the same part of the brain that causes us to stop and stare at car wrecks and fires.
Updated on February 6, 2011
Remembering 9-11
Sometimes it seems I'm the last to know what's happening in the world. I didn't know we had been attacked until well after all four jets had made their deadly plunge.
Updated on February 26, 2011
Christmas Memories
Do you remember what you received for Christmas when you were 6? How about 7? Or 8? Its nearly impossible for me to remember the gifts. But what I do remember, is priceless.
