Treasure

Matthew 6:19-21King James Version (KJV)

19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:

20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:

21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

This passage was often quoted by Reverend Davis when I attended St. Lukes Church as a child. Growing up Mom took us to church, whether we wanted to or not ! After a short time I began to enjoy the social aspects of this community. The religious instruction I received I just took at face value. There were many years that I did not seriously consider those verses and their meanings. Still, I would say the foundation was laid. My faith is built upon a rock and remains solid. I give the credit to Reverend Davis for his kind and caring ways. I give credit to my God for continued faith.
I have been thinking about these passages the last several days. What follows are my thoughts. The verse tells us to not lay up for ourselves treasure upon earth but treasures in heaven. How do we lay up that treasure and what is it ? That is what I have been thinking about. I began to think how we often say, we spend time, doing whatever. The word spend implies the expenditure of some " treasure. " It is this time that I think is the treasure being referred to in this scripture. When we spend out time ( treasure ) to the benefit of others we are laying that treasure up in heaven. This seems reasonable to me in light of the Bible as a whole. So it logically follows that I should " spend " my time and energies helping my fellow man. If I do this I will be laying up those treasures. The final verse reminds me that the action must be pure in spirit. For where your treasure is, there will be your heart also. In other words if I do this with my heart, earnestly and truthfully I will be rewarded. My " treasure " awaits me and obtaining that " treasure " is solely based upon my own actions and choices. Thinking about these verses in this way has me considering how I spend my time. I should not be wasting it on frivolous things, but trying to spend it wisely. The old saying, waste not,want not takes on new meaning in that context. The verse is telling me not to spend my time doing what I want. I should be doing whatever God has purposed me for.
That is what I think that passage is talking about. Our time is limited here on this earth. We cannot know the hour of our death. The bible tells us, or more exactly Jesus told us that. Only God knows that time. We should strive to use that time, that treasure, wisely. Is that why we say life is a gift,treasure it ? Bottom line here is, I've got a job to do I had best get to it. The laying up of treasure in heaven ensures my treasure, eternal life, time is unlimited. Is that not the promise that God has made ? 

Just thinking

I have been thinking about a trend that has been developing over the last decade or so. I guess once you reach sixty or so you begin to review your experiences in decades. That in itself gives one pause. I have noticed that we have begun to have prolonged grieving/remembrances for death and other tragic events. There seems to be a proliferation of memorials. Vigils are often held. We have taken to putting " In Memoriam " on stickers on our vehicles, having it tattooed on our bodies and even wearing tee shirts with that on it.
I have an interest in genealogy and pursue that hobby. From that pursuit I know that in years (decades ) past the dead where often not spoken of. That was the social convention . We attended the funeral and expressed our grief and sorrow. At various times throughout history death and other tragedies were mourned for a set period of time. The wearing of black or other signs and symbols were used. As a whole the attitude was, mourn, accept, and move on. It seems a hard way of looking at things but I believe a practical way as well. I wonder about all this public display of grief. Not so much the initial grief and shock that accompanies these events but the prolonged outward expression of that emotion.
I think that a more pragmatic approach to these events is preferable. There is nothing one can do to change those events. I wonder about the long term effects. How is this effecting our children ? It is a difficult thing. On the one hand these are life changing events. It is only right that we should remember those that have past. It is only fitting that we memorialize certain events as a reminder to future generations. I understand all that and agree. On the other hand dwelling on the past too long can have detrimental consequences. It is another question of balance. Just where is that line ?
I wonder too if some of these displays are done just for the sake of appearances ? In this politically correct climate of today, outward displays are quite popular. We wear our feelings on our sleeves is the saying. In years past that practice was considered a fault. It was often thought of as a solicitation of sorrow. Sometimes these outward displays relieve us of the burden of dealing inwardly with these events. Could this be a result of a diminished religious background ? We hear the expression, relying upon our faith, but what if that faith does not exist ? How else might we seek solace ? Memorials,vigils and the constant reliving of the event ?
I realize that each of us must deal with things in our own way. There is no correct way. I hear on the news that schools and other groups call in grief counselors. Having never spoken to one of these professionals I am curious as to what they say. What words can you offer in tragic times ? Faith is what sustains mankind. Are these displays meant to replace that ? That, I think is what bothers me about this trend. I am feeling a little conflicted. Grief, and the resolution of that emotion is a personal thing to me. Perhaps that is the root of this and  that is what troubles me.
This is just a sharing of my thoughts on this subject. It is not a condemnation of anyone or how they wish to mourn. It is nothing more than my observation. 

Credible People

The one thing I find especially annoying or repulsive is people that lack credibility. Well, that isn't the only thing but it is near the top of the list. A list that I am working on reducing. You meet these people everywhere. Some I have known for years and others are fairly recent. It bothers me that these individuals appear to lack sincerity. They say one thing and do another. I really dislike that. I may not agree with your opinions or actions but I can accept them if there are sincere. I just can't stomach a phony. This " putting on airs " as the saying goes annoys me the quickest. I am almost compelled to say something immediately and most times I have to turn and walk away. I just want to call them out on this nonsense. Do you really think you are fooling anyone ?
I would think that maintaining a pretext would have to be exhausting. Or, is it that it becomes a habit ? It could be that these people are not aware of it, like a person that' drinks too much. They have to hit rock bottom or be the recipient of an intervention before they begin to understand. There are those that are incredible, that is true, but those lacking credibility need a name as well. A few names pop to mind but they are unflattering and possibly politically incorrect. Maybe the term we should use for these people afflicted with this disorder is the " uncredibles. " We could get funding and form support groups for these folks. As they told their stories the moderator could call them out on those tales. Close friends and family would be there to " correct " the testimony of the " uncredible. " These folks just need someone to call them out on it !
There, I've had my little venting for this morning. I feel better. Sometimes we just have to say or write our feelings to relieve the pressure. There are times when this action is contrary to a good Christian attitude. I am not perfect. I have tried to temper this rant so as not to be overly objectionable. I had no one person in mind when composing this diatribe. It was, I confess inspired by one specific individual.  You do need a catalyst and I found one yesterday. I thank that person for that. Inspiration is not always a pleasant feeling. See, feeling better already. Keep it real people. Isn't that what the kids say ?

Sounding the same

I went to the new playground with my granddaughter last evening. I took the video camera along. It was a beautiful evening, not too hot and a nice breeze. Morgan loves taking pictures or videos, especially of herself. I think we all go through that phase. At any rate she was taping herself doing all sorts of things. Funny how I still feel compelled to say " tape " even when it is a digital thing. What should I be saying ? Recording ? Capturing a digital image ? Filming ? I don't know I'll probably just keep saying taping.
When we got home I downloaded those captured digital images to my home computer. After they were downloaded they were processed. It was then that we got to view them. They are all pretty silly, as I expected they would be, but considering the cost it was well worth it. That is the real beauty of this new technology, you can afford to just record or take pictures of anything at all. I sat with Morgan and reviewed them. She was having a great time immediately reliving being at the park. Isn't that another curious thing ? We all like to look at our pictures as soon as possible. We may have just taken the shot less than a minute ago and we want to see it. I remember having to wait for days.
As I watched and listened to these videos I was struck by how Morgan sounds. We all know we sound differently when recorded. We never sound the way we think we sound. The voice I hear in my head isn't what is on tape ! With Morgan I find her voice to be pleasant when recorded. I do not mean to say that it is not also pleasant in person, just that it records well. I did post one of her silly videos to Facebook where you can check it out. This " discovery " lead me to wonder if maybe she couldn't have a career in television or radio. I would think that the way your voice records would be of paramount importance. I can not think of anyone I know personalty that has a job that requires having their voice recorded. I wonder if their " in person voice " sounds differently than there recorded voice ? I will have to start recording more people that I know and compare. What do you think ? Does your voice record well ? I think I sound terrible. What about those you know ?

Being Me

I have never been one much for jumping on the bandwagon. I am not a follower of trends or fashion. I will admit to being a bit hesitant to adopt new things or ideas. I believe that is because I give thought to things before I try them. I just don't jump right in. Some may see this as a sign of weakness or bring timid, I think it is just prudent. Look before you leap is my attitude. There are things that perhaps I miss out on and that is fine with me. To others it may appear that I lag behind. You could make a case for that but another adage applies here, better safe than sorry.
This hesitation to jump on the bandwagon extends to social issues as well. I am not one to just throw my support behind any new philosophy that comes along. I am a traditionalist. If I find nothing wrong with the " old " way I will not adopt a " new " way just for the sake of being current. I would say that I am self assured. I do need to guard against being smug at times, especially when these " new " policies fail. I am not prone to being a parrot. I find it annoying when trying to discuss a subject with those that only want to repeat whatever they have heard.
This propensity has often affected my social life. I like what I like and will not try things publicly and embarrass myself. At least that is the way I have always felt about it. I'm quite sure this was a result of my upbringing. Mom and Dad were not what one would call liberals. I grew up in the sixties. I did not however dress like a hippie, or flower child. No long hair for me and no clothing in the latest fashion. " you ain't going out of my house looking like that " was often heard. When I earned my own money I was free to buy whatever I wanted but by then the mold was cast. Oh, I have occasionally broke free of that mold but was never comfortable afterward. I revert back to my default mode.
I do believe that your core values are formed in your early years. These values are ingrained and reflect the values of your parents. Personality has little to do with values. Your personality develops as a result of your experiences. As a child I was rather small in stature compared to my classmates and more importantly as compared to my brothers. My reaction was one of defiance, I became " scrappy ". Whenever possible I challenged those brothers of mine on an intellectual level. I felt I had an even chance in that area. I embraced the fact that Mom and Dad wouldn't allow me to dress and act like the " cool " kids. I made that look mine. Often I explained why " my " choice was the better avenue to take.
I will say this, new isn't always better. Change is not always a good thing either. I require a bit of evidence before buying into things. I am not afraid to speak contrary to current ideas if I feel justified in doing so. If I feel something may be harmful I will speak out. I will adopt new things given time. I do not want to look like a fool. Tried and true is what I like. I also believe in standing firm in my beliefs. I don't change my opinions easily. I am quick to form an opinion and that is a fault. I am aware of that and am working on it. I also don't want to sit on the fence too long regarding things. Do your business or get off the pot ! That is what I was told. The most important thing to me is individual thought. In order for me to change my mind a good case has to be presented. Simply repeating the words of others is not good enough. It may make you popular and seem " informed " but only to those that are part of the crowd. Trends and fashions change but I believe you should not change your values as easily, even when those values are contrary to popular opinion. 

Learn to Like It

I was writing about idle words which lead into a discussion about bullying. I think we have all been bullied at different times and to different degrees. The one situation I hear often is the " lone " child standing against a group. I wonder how this comes to be. It has been forty three years since I was in high school, so that is my latest experience in that situation. Surprisingly I do remember it quite well. I remember the little cliques. I was in one and so was everyone else that I knew. They weren't all in my little group but they all belonged to some group. I can not name a single person that I would call a " loner. " We all had friends. There was some that were " less popular " the " not cool " kids but they had their group. So, this social isolation that these children experience is a foreign concept to me. I would tend to think it has to be self imposed. Even in the small school that I attended there were those that you could find something in common with. There was a group to join. And in my group, we stood up for each other. We offered support.
Is the bullying today any worse than the bullying of yesterday ?  There are more avenues to take I believe and a greater number may become involved through social media and the like. But why do the children of today seem to have more of a problem dealing with it ? Perhaps it is because the kids today are more sheltered. I do believe the children of today, for the most part, are a lot less independent than say forty years ago. When I was a child I was watched. The difference was after a certain age I was left to "fend " for myself. Mom decided when that was. I had to learn to get along with other people, deal with situations and conflicts. In my day you didn't go running to Mom and Dad or call a lawyer. You had to figure it out for yourself. I could ask Mom or Dad for advice or maybe a brother or sister but none of them resolved the issue for me, I had to do that myself. Thing was, I had backup ! The other thing was, you didn't want that backup to intervene unless it was absolutely necessary.
There was a saying we all heard. You can " learn to like it. " That phrase was used to tell you that whatever it was wasn't going to change no matter what you did, so you had to " learn to like it. " Just another way of telling you you can't always have it your way. In another sense the lesson was, pick your battles wisely. The message was, there are those that will not agree with you, there are those that will not like you, get over it and move on. After a time bullies become as a fly, an annoyance and to be avoided. If they became too bothersome I would either just leave the area or swat at them. Either way, the fly never wins. Even when I decided to just leave the area, it was my choice. No need to get too upset about it.
The big excuse I hear is that the world is so much worse today than it was years ago. In the area of crime, statistics do not support that. In fact, there is less crime today than forty years ago. I think parents do not allow their children to " go out and play " as often. I didn't have a hundred channels on the television, which Dad controlled anyway, nor computers or internet. The phone was on the kitchen wall. Mom had to clean the house, so it was, " go out and play. "  I was forced to make contact with other real kids. I did live on a dirt road and there were few houses. I had neighbors with children, on and off. Some I liked and others I didn't. Those other kids had different ideas about what was fun sometimes. Sometimes they got me into trouble. My own fault really, I knew better but was fitting in. All a part of the learning process. The important lesson being, be confident in your beliefs. Do not try to force others to play your game and join theirs only when you know it is right. If it isn't right, turn and walk away.
I make no claim to knowing any answers or offering a solution to this problem. I will say this. I do think our overall maturity level has declined over the years. We resort to legislation, collective bargaining, and hiring experts in " conflict resolution " far too often. When things do not go our way or someone offends us what is the first thing you hear ? I'll sue you ! Forcing your will upon others, even when justified in doing so, is not always the answer. What happens when that avenue is not available or feasible ? How do I then deal with it ? Little Johnny is calling me names, I can't sue him for that. What do I do ? I have to make a choice. The choice I make will be based upon my past experiences. First and foremost I must have had that experience. I'm not getting that if Mom and Dad settle every dispute for me. ( legislation ) I do require their support ( backup ) when I am right. If I am wrong that doesn't mean that they blindly support me however. There are times when Mom and Dad are the bullies ! Learn to like it.

Idle words

In the book of Mathew it says, every idle word we say will be used to judge us. I don't think you could argue with that statement. The words we say or write can have a profound effect upon others. Whether you believe in the final judgement or not your own words can condemn you. An old adage immediately comes to mind. " Oh what a tangled web we weave, when we first practice to deceive." That , of course, refers to telling lies. It takes an agile mind to keep track of it all, doesn't it ? But it is not only lies that may be our downfall, the spreading of gossip is just as harmful. If you get the reputation for being less than honest or telling tales you status in society is lowered. Can I share intimate thoughts with you ? Can I be confident that they will remain with you ?
This does go further than that. Idle words. What are idle words ? They are those things we say without giving proper thought to what we wish to say. Those are the things we sometimes say to be funny, or to hurt. Words spoken in anger are often ill considered. Idle words stem from idle thoughts. We hear a lot about bullying these days. That is an example of idle words. It is also why we were taught, "sticks and stones can break my bones but names will never hurt me." What we were being taught there was, those words do us no permanent harm but cause injury to those using them. Every idle word will be used to judge us. If we are aware of that, than those idle words will do us no harm. Will it cause us distress ? Yes, it probably will. The thing to keep in mind is the long term. Those that use hurtful language or spread lies and gossip do not only target you. No, those that behave in that fashion will continue to behave that way towards others. They will be judged. We all know some that are like that.
I believe what Mathew was talking about was choosing our words carefully. It goes hand in hand with another verse that I shared a few days ago. In Ephesians chapter 5 verse 15 it says, " see then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools,but as wise. " In other words think about what you are saying and doing before you do it ! Do not act foolishly or irrationally. Live your life with integrity and truth.
There are a lot of " reality shows " that seem to reward just the opposite of these behaviors. Remember that they are games. Life is not a game and those you encounter are not pawns in your game. Just what reputation do you wish to foster ? I am not talking about an artificial image as they do on those shows, I am talking about the real you. If you are just talking to create an image, are those not idle words ? It is those words that will condemn you ie: get you thrown out !
Some of you reading this may get distracted by my Bible references. I hope that is not the case. I am not preaching here but pointing out some truths. Even to the non believer the Bible holds many truths. There is much guidance for life in those pages. I know that I have been guilty of using those idle words. Many of the everyday adages we are all familiar with come from the pages of the Bible. I believe that is because they are truth. Think before you speak. You must live your words, not just speak them. 

Smug Amusement

I work with and around a lot of young ladies. They are anywhere from juniors in high school to their early twenties. I hear about the prom and I hear about " boy " troubles. Boys are such pigs ! I just smile and say nothing. To them I'm an old man and know nothing of such things. They probably think I went to a one room schoolhouse and went to barn dances on Friday nights. I offer no words of advice, just remaining silent. It is a different world we live in and things are easily misunderstood.
I will admit that I am moved to speak on some occasions, still I say nothing. These young ladies would do well to listen to advice from an old man, but they don't know that. I am not surprised, when I was eighteen or so I knew more about love and romance than Don Juan, or so I thought. That is the way of the world and little has changed.
If I were to offer some advice I would say this.Young men like to win. They like to collect trophies. Once the trophy has been won their interest usually begins to fade. Oh, in the beginning they will admire it, put it up on the shelf. They will polish it and care for it. Each time they see it they make a fuss over it, that is until some other shiny thing catches their eye. Soon that trophy is collecting dust in the corner of the room. I would tell them, don't be a trophy. You are not some prize to be won. Likewise do not try to obtain some trophy for yourself. No, what you want is something that is good for everyday use. A low maintenance, high reward person is what you need. Do not be fooled by the packaging. Sometimes the most exciting things come in a plain brown wrapper.
That would be my advice but I know it would fall upon deaf ears. These things must be learned through experience. One can not understand sweet without having tasted bitter. It is an interesting thing to observe, these interpersonal relationships, when you have no vested emotional interest. I do feel bad when they are distraught. It is just one of those things in life I suppose. There are some you cheer for, and others that,well, you just hope they learn. Sometimes it is good to just feel smug ! I know I shouldn't, but it is but a small vice after all. A small amusement. 

Peace and Quiet

I was sitting on my porch enjoying the early evening air. The weather has provided us with a respite from heat and humidity. I could hear the birds singing and a slight breeze rustled the trees. Then, I heard a little sports car go by, it's engine whining protest and a thumping stereo. That is when I thought, I wish man didn't interrupt nature so much. That is just what we have been doing however, for many years. I was thinking I would like to live in the mountains away from all this racket. I got a mental image of a little log cabin, snow covered and a fire crackling in the fireplace. Ah, the wonderful silence, except for Facebook of course, I would need internet, after all I'm not a primitive ! Then I though of a cottage by the sea. The sounds of the gulls and the surf. Wouldn't that be a lovely thing. I could do with an escape from all the noise of man.
Yes there are times when all is quiet, I am an early riser, if you are up at sunrise you can hear the day wake up. When those first rays of light appear in the east I can hear the birds begin to stir. They always greet the morning. Soon after I will begin to hear the sounds of man. Cars in the distance and noise. Just noise.
It is nice to just go on these little flights of fantasy. In these scenarios all is quiet and idyllic. All of our needs are met. I'm sitting in a rocking chair on the porch or in front of a roaring fire. There are no bills,sickness or interruptions. The conversation is sparkling. Even storms are welcomed as adventure. The days pass by and we glide into old age. Never a struggle or a care. Letting nature take its' course uninterrupted.  That is what I am talking about. Then the phone rings ! Well, back to the twenty first century.
I do think I could live in an isolated area. As long as I can have reasonable accommodations I could do that. I would want some electrical service. I would still want my computer and access to this web. I would miss that. I enjoy the company of people but could easily go for weeks without. I'm no survivalist and no great outdoors man. I can fish and could hunt if that was required. I'd rather just buy my meat at the store though, wild game doesn't hold a big appeal to me. The big appeal to me would be peace and quiet. That and a sense of freedom. Living in a remote area I am sure would give me that feeling. The ability to roam without walking through someones back yard or running into asphalt. Or maybe just to sing out load and know no one can hear. That is freedom. To live without a schedule. Ah, now that is a pleasant thought.  

Disappointed

There are times when even though something is not unexpected, it leaves you disappointed. This has happened to me and others here in Greensboro. Some time back, a couple years  ago, a committee was formed. These citizens launched Project Playground. Through grants, fundraising and volunteer help they gave the town a wonderful new playground. The cost in dollars was over three hundred thousand . It was open to the public just two weeks ago. Offering something for all age groups, including adults, it is a wonderful thing.
The disappointment cones from unruly children,destructive behaviors and the complaints of some citizens. Already some equipment has been broken. Some adults have been to the playground and left appalled at the language being used. There have been  reports of bullying. Certain citizens are demanding to know why the police are not patrolling this playground more frequently. There is talk of forming a Park Watch organization. At this point in that discussion it sounds more like a vigilante group ! Many are complaining about children being there unsupervised. Some say, " the playground is not a baby sitter, and you shouldn't just let your kids go to the park or drop them off there. " All of this has created quite the outcry. As I said, I am not surprised by it, but still disappointed.
This is not my first experience with this sort of thing. I worked for the town of Ridgely when they built a skateboard park. The results were very similar. An initial outcry of disappointment, then anger and eventually resignation. I can see that pattern taking place here. The interesting thing is those parents doing the complaining always make the same claims, it isn't my children, they never see the police, and only certain groups get attention. These same parents are always too busy to volunteer or even attend meetings to discuss the issues. They are the ones writing e-mails or complaining on social media. Oh, and they are the only ones paying taxes ! There tax money alone pays for every service in the town.
I have no answers to this problem. This sort of thing has always happened. I grow annoyed with those that want to deny that. I get tired of hearing, when we were children this stuff didn't happen. It did. Little changes in childrens' behaviors. The only thing changing is what society accepts as acceptable behaviors and how to enforce those behaviors. The big change I see is that children are not being taught to respect their elders. Parents are too hasty to defend their chidrens' actions. I remember when I was a child, if an adult told you to do something, you pretty much did. If another adult told your parents you did something, you were guilty. My parents didn't immediately question the reporting adult and accuse them of interfering ! No, they thanked that person and dealt with the problem. As a child I worried about other peoples parents reporting my actions to my Mom or Dad. If there was Police involvement, well that never happened, and I can't even imagine the response.
I just don't know what the answer is. I do know that until each person accepts personal responsibility little will change. Is it possible to get an entire town on the same page ? Now that takes a leader. Problem is we are teaching that we shouldn't follow anymore, we should lead. The sentiment is a noble one but ignores an uncomfortable reality. Not all of us are leaders ! Without guidance there are those that stray. That issue is another whole discussion. 

Be Wary

I listened with interest to the morning news as they explained about a new curfew law. This regulation, passed by the Baltimore city council, goes into effect in just three weeks. It will be one of the toughest in the nation. I wasn't aware that there were curfews in the country. I had only heard of curfews being imposed in response to some sort of emergency or special situations. This law states children under the age of 14 must be indoors by 9pm. Those that are sixteen may stay out until 10pm. Parents of these children may be fined five hundred dollars for violations. This curfew is being imposed, according to its' supporters, to " get the children the help they need. " That is the stated purpose. The implication being that if these children are out past this time there must be a problem of some kind. Sounds like a lack of parental control to me. I am left scratching my head, is this a government issue ? Should we impose restrictions on everyone because some may have problems ? Just how much government intervention in our lives should we allow ?
There are a few exceptions to this policy. After school activities, religious activities and sporting events. There is some dissension among certain ethnic groups who feel they are being targeted. Other than that I am not hearing much resistance. Of course I realize I am listening to the main stream media and it is the station out of Baltimore. I am not too surprised to hear only positive reporting. Even though this does not directly affect me I can not help but feel a little wary. To me, this curfew, no matter how well intended, is a violation of our freedom. This is the United States of America. We do not impose restrictions upon on citizens. Why am I not hearing anything from the Civil Liberties Union ? Where are the patriots ? Is no one going to voice opposition to government mandated curfews ?
I understand the problem and issues with these " children " roaming the streets. I know the havoc they can cause. The potential for bad behavior is always present. The thing is, do we not have the right to peaceful assembly ? To restrict that right is to restrict freedom. A fine may be levied of five hundred dollars. These same children, the ones needing " help " do not come from affluent families. Just who is going to pay the fine ? And just how are the Police supposed to enforce this law ? Am I thirteen,fourteen, fifteen or twenty one ? Will it be that I do not have to show ID to vote but need one to stay out past 9 at night ?
I am just taken aback. It is troubling to me to see this curbing of freedom. What is happening to America ? Another little chip has been taken out of our freedom. For me it is just another step closer to government control. This is another attempt to govern our lives. It is frightening.

Living

Yesterday I officially completed sixty one years of being on this earth. I am indeed fortunate to able to say that. I just learned another childhood schoolmate has passed. The list grows with each passing year. It is a part of life we do not like to think about, but it is reality. I have witnessed many changes over the years. I have also noted those things that remain the same. The passage of time does little to alter anything, the earth ages slowly, but time does alter us all. I believe the goal is to mature and gain wisdom. The collection of knowledge is of little benefit if it is not processed. An understanding of that knowledge is what is required.
It is an amazing thing when you think about it. A review of your life, and a distillation of it can reveal many things. It is not the many mistakes you may have made that is of importance, but rather what you have done right. Those are the things you should grasp onto. Dwelling on past errors or poor choices does nothing to correct them. Embrace what you have seen, in your own life, as those moments of wisdom and build upon them. Petty jealousy or envy gets set aside. When we begin to enjoy those things that are pleasing to others we begin to grow. That is true in childhood and true as adults. When you begin to enjoy and celebrate the accomplishments of others more than your own, you have begun growth. Does not everything that grows take nourishment from another source ? People are no different in that regard. Whether it is nutrition or personal growth that holds true. I find I have been blessed with a rich source of nutrients. My friends and family. That knowledge was reaffirmed yesterday. I received so many birthday wishes and each was sincere. I do not believe one could hope for anything greater than that.
Birthdays are a reminder. They should not be a reminder of the passing years however, they should remind us of life. How fortunate we are to have lived to see another day,to have another opportunity for growth. They should remind us to contribute. Do not take in the years without giving something in return. Share that life with others. We each hold experiences that are of benefit to others. Share them. We can not know the hour of our passing, our lives here are finite. I believe each of us are here for a purpose, fulfill that purpose. Live that life. You know, life isn't about me, it is about us. 

The Question of Angels

Recently I was asked if I believed in angels. My immediate response was, yes. I stand by that response. I do believe we are surrounded by them. I do not necessarily agree with the stereotypical image of what an angel is. I believe they may take whatever form suits the occasion. The Bible mentions them frequently. They are described as not human, but not God. The Bible says they were made before the earth was formed and there are millions of them. Satan is probably the best known and most ( justifiably so ) vilified of the angels.
Whatever your belief or interpretation of these events, and angels, I don't believe there existence can reasonably be denied. There are forces, both good and bad, acting in this universe that can not be denied or ignored. Certain events have no other explanation.
Now I believe it when my Bible tells me that the angels were created, by the millions, before the earth was formed. I interpret this as the manifestation of energy. Energy, as we all have been taught, can neither be created or destroyed. Therefore, energy always exists. We have also been taught that for every action there is an opposite and equal reaction. That is science. I see no reason to suspect that this energy would not behave in the same fashion. We call it positive and negative. Magnetic poles are arranged in that fashion.
This energy, the same energy that sustains life on this planet, is, I believe, a spiritual force. As with any force it can be used for good or evil.
All evil is the result of human decisions and actions. That is the choice our creator has given us. It is incumbent upon mankind to use this energy, this spiritual force, for good. Mankind was also endowed with an inherent sense of right and wrong. It is my thought that mankind, as a whole wields this spiritual force for good or bad. It is the collective choices of man that determine mans fate. That was demonstrated to man by the story of Noah. Mankind turned to using the spiritual forces for evil deeds and angered God. The great flood was the result. That I believe, and take on faith.
Angels traditionally have been portrayed as the messengers of God. In the Bible and in personal testimony that has been the case. Angels have not always delivered good news, but deliver warnings as well. Frequently Angels begin their message with the phrase, fear not. That, I believe is because we do not need to fear Angels, they can not do anything. They deliver the message. That is it ! Only God can punish and reward. Remember what I said ? Evil is the result of mans actions and decisions. Angels provide the energy and God controls the Angels. The more pleasing we are to God, individually and as a whole, the more these forces ( Angels ) act upon us in a positive way. The less pleasing we become, the more the force reacts negatively. All of this happens every moment of every day to varying degrees.
So I would say that Angels exist. Energy exists. Can I call upon the Angels ? Only in the sense that I can appeal to my creator. It is my actions that control my fate. And that is because I believe my God is a just God. I do not pray to an Angel. Angels are the messengers of God, not a courier service. I believe God knows our hearts and is with us. These Angels, or spiritual forces are his agents. An explanation of how God can be everywhere at the same moment. Angels are the energy of the creator. Mankind can use this energy. We can not destroy it or create it. We have been given " the owners manual " so to speak. We need only follow the directions.
Angels walk among us every day. Their purpose is to deliver the message, clarify the instructions. All we need to do is listen. These are my thoughts about Angels. I believe I have met a few. 

A sense of propriety

Maybe it is the result of having lived for 61 years. Perhaps it is nothing more than the changing times. Have I become "set in my ways ? " Whatever the cause may be I have decided I have put my finger on the problem. What problem, you may ask ? Society, I answer. And the problem ? A decided lack of proprieties. We do not observe a standard sense of propriety. It is this attitude of, do your own thing, that is part of the decay. Without a standard, a set of behaviors to guide us, there is no order. This lack of order causes misunderstandings and friction. A strict adherence to the proprieties at all times leads to a more harmonious relationship. This is true with individuals as well as society in general.
I certainly do not advocate for a strict standard of behavior. I do believe in freedom of expression. It is only in the execution of that freedom that I feel decorum should be maintained. These public displays of a lack of restraint or unwillingness to act appropriately I find disturbing. A proper sense of propriety dictates certain actions take place in private. Actions that cause discomfort to others, or lead to unrest fall into that category. An example may be an unruly child. When I was younger and raising my own children I did not publicly argue or discipline them. They were removed to a private location,relatively speaking, and reprimanded. Other examples include the use of " language " in the presence of ladies. Now it is the " ladies " that use the language.
I have always been one for the sublime rather than direct confrontation. That is not to say I will not directly confront others with my own concerns. I most definitely will. It does cause me discomfort and unease. I do favor a more subtle approach. I also would much prefer a private setting. Discernment is a prerequisite to the observation of propriety. Is there also a lack of discernment in todays' society ? I will have to answer, most assuredly. That leads us right back to what I feel is the root problem. A lack of propriety. How is one expected to discern what is proper, or what is unacceptable, if there are no comparisons ? Conformity has become a dirty word. The adherence to societal norms has fallen out of favor. Why should this be so ? Perhaps it is because it requires restraint,discernment, and an observation of the proprieties. It is far easier to make excuses for our behaviors rather than to correct them. It is far easier to ignore than to observe.
Is obedience to a moral and ethical code a sign of weakness ? I certainly don't think so. I know that it requires effort and due diligence. Could it be that is also related to the decline of the religious ? Immediate wants are now taking precedence over the long range goal ? The question there is, what is the goal ? Is the goal self fulfillment, or making a positive contribution to society in general ? It would seem that is what governs our behaviors, the answer to that question.
I will say I often fail in my attempt to fulfill my ambition. I am like everyone else. I am just a person. The first step is awareness. With the advance of the years my awareness has been raised. I am beginning to feel a sense urgency. I'll keep trying.  

Curious

The saying is, curiosity killed the cat, and I find myself being curious. I have written a story about this particular curiosity. Some of you may remember it. It was about a small country church that I speculated was going to be torn down. I wrote about all the windows being removed and the bell from the bell tower. That was several weeks ago. Yesterday I rode by that church again. The church is still standing and at first glance, untouched. As I passed the sun glinted off of something in the two front windows. Was it plain glass or plastic ? I'm curious. What is going on here ? There is a round stained glass window above the main entrance that is there and intact. Funny, I hadn't noticed it before. Just what is going on here ? Just what fate awaits ?
I find it interesting that I should get so curious about something that does not effect me. I do not attend this church. I am not even sure of the denomination of the parishioners. I have no knowledge of its' history or usage. Has it been long unused ? I mean, other than this sadness that I feel when I see any church building abandoned and being destroyed, it has no significance. Yet my curiosity is piqued. This must be that curiosity the cat felt ! Perhaps this is just one of those things that you need to be patient with. Given time, the answer will be revealed to me, at least partially. If the building is torn down my guess will have been confirmed. If it is refurbished I will be glad. The truth is however, I will probably never know the complete story or the answers. A better question for me to ask is, " why should I care about this ? "
Idle curiosity is defined as wanting to know something for no particular reason. That does define this situation. I wonder though if idle curiosity should lead one to action ? I mean should this curiosity serve as an impetus to action ? What action could I take ? What change could I effect ? Other than the satisfying of my own curiosity I can't envision anything else as a result of my intervention. Is it this " idle curiosity " that is the beginning of movements and foundations ?  No, I suppose it is not. I believe one would have to have an active interest in order to get involved. Pursuing your passions is one way to describe that. I do think if I was the possessor of great wealth my idle curiosity would cause me to act. Is that lack of wealth an excuse for inactivity ? Something to consider. Then again curiosity killed the cat. Well, the original phrase was Care killed the cat. Care in that sense meaning worry or sorrow. It was changed to curiosity over the years and took on the current meaning. The sentiment is the same. I do feel sorrow for this little church. Maybe I should just leave it alone.

Feeling Frustrated

As I listen to the news I am struck by how much these journalists are slanting the story. What I am referring to is this issue of illegal immigrants. It has turned into a virtual invasion. At first they were called just that, illegals. Then the press decided that undocumented workers sounded better. When those of us that actually work for a living voiced our protest at that misnomer, a new angle was required. Now we are focusing on children and calling them refugees ! Oh, the poor children. The only problem with that is, it isn't true. Move away from the main stream media and you will see pictures that prove otherwise. What you will see is busloads, yes busloads, of these illegals being transported to housing facilities. Don't take my word for it, go have a look around. Some are even being transported to the local Walmart with a government issued EBT card ! A card that you and I paid for.
I hear the politicians and news reporters talk about the poor refugee children. I hear them talk about the undocumented workers that just want to come to America and live free. I hear all about humanitarian efforts. These same reporters that do op eds about religious freedom and how there is separation of church and state are practically appealing to our Christian beliefs ! Hypocrites and liars. Yes, they paint quite the picture.
The truth of the matter is they are overlooking reality. Whatever their agenda may be, political office, cheap labor for their business or just interest in keeping the free stuff flowing they are glossing over everything.
Ideally it would be open the borders, not that they are closed, and come on in. We will feed and clothe you all. Medical care and housing available to all. In return you all stay and live model lives, like model citizens. The additional cost and strain on infrastructure is no problem. Money is not an issue. No need to assimilate into our society, we will adopt to yours !
I'm no chicken little but this is serious. Something has to be done. The issue is much deeper than most realize. When I see very preeminent politicians, men and women of influence, advocating for this unchecked influx of illegals and saying we should just ignore the law, I become concerned, very concerned. A future presidential hopeful, Martin O'Malley is one of those. I just watched as he said, this is a humanitarian necessity. I heard no concern from him about the American people he wishes to represent.
Generalizations are usually not a very accurate indicator of a situation. The news would now have us believe that there are children trekking, unaccompanied, through the jungles of central america and across the expanse of Mexico to reach our border. They are fleeing the drug lords and sex traffickers. It is a life and death struggle for survival ! There may be a few instances of that happening but I am not buying that package. This is a coordinated effort. The word is out, get to America. The United States will not deport you. They will feed you,clothe you and give you money. Even if you get detained, the detention centers are like luxury hotels. The sad part in all of that is that it is true.
I could go on and on. I only write this to vent my frustration. Thanks for reading. 

Equal

I have written about the expression," it is no worse than." I explained why I thought it was an invalid statement. The implication is that whatever you are comparing it to, is not a good thing. The thing you are now talking about is no worse than that. It isn't better than, but it is no worse than. My opinion is that we should always strive for improvement. I don't think we should be settling for, not worse than.
Now another bit of logic I hear a lot but don't understand is the notion that whatever happened ten years ago, or a hundred years ago, is somehow my fault. I am held responsible. I should give reparations or grant special privilege because of a past wrongdoing. I find myself wondering why this should be so. I mean, I can plainly see where a situation that was acceptable say, 200 years ago, is completely wrong. I can read in the history books about past injustices but am I accountable ? I advocate for, and encourage others to accept responsibility for their actions. In fact, I have written blogs about that very thing. Yet, this whole logic remains a mystery to me. Is there some method to undo the past ? Or is it that doing right now will pay for the mistakes of the past ? Other than the understanding of past transgressions and correcting that behavior what more is required ? Something that was denied to your grandparents should now be given to you ? I don't understand how that benefits the Grandparents, and is it not the grandparents that were wronged ?
We can not change the past only learn from it. Hopefully we learn to not repeat those mistakes of the past. I do believe forcing people to pay for what happened years ago does little but create resentment. An injustice can not be corrected by enforcing further injustice. Also I believe teaching our children to seek some form of reparation for injustices of the past, even when those injustices are just perceived, is not beneficial to society. How can it be ? Does that not foster a sense of entitlement ? And just what is entitlement ?  Something owed to you ? The notion that something in the past, that happened to your ancestors entitles you to something today is just wrong thinking. At least in my mind it is. Change was effected and we must move on. The old saying " don't cry over spilled milk " applies. It doesn't matter who spilled it, or why the milk got spilled ! The goal is to avoid it happening again.
Well, that is my little rant for this morning. Certain things annoy me and this one of them. Sounds like a bunch of children arguing to me. Grow up and put your big boy, or big girl pants on. Take advantage of whatever rights are granted to you. Remember those in the past that suffered so you could achieve those rights. Do not cheapen their efforts by now demanding more. They did not want more, only to be equal. They wanted to be the same as everyone else, not special or entitled. 

Transitional Times

There are times in history when we go through transitions. Nothing stays the same, this is true, but there are times when things shift in a more dramatic fashion. You hear it all the time from the politicians, " landmark legislation ".  To those supporting that same legislation it spells a new beginning, an enlightenment. Those opposed crying out about the lose of their freedom. It has always been this way and will remain . Human nature really doesn't change much over the ages.
I know it has been said before, many times, but I believe it to be true, this is one of those times. There is no denying there has been major changes in the law and in society. For many these changes are quite uncomfortable. The pundits in the news refer to the left and to the right, conservatives and liberals. Everyone is trying to put a label on this. I'm not sure what to call it. I just see it as a means of justification. If we " legalize " things that makes them right. That appears to be the logic being employed here. It is true that you can not force acceptance, but you can certainly punish non compliance !
There is always the fear of the unknown. That is a human trait. We fear what we don't understand is a common saying. I believe that is also a common fallacy. I believe that is just another way in which others press their agendas. The implication being, they understand and it is fine, but you, you poor ignorant soul, do not and therefore you are afraid. You are accused of bias and prejudice.
Neither government nor man is perfect. Those are facts that can not be disputed. Man is a biased creature and filled with prejudices. No one is free from that, no matter how loudly they proclaim otherwise. It is a constant battle within us, to not act upon those prejudices. It is easier for some, that is also true but everyone has it. Is it not a part of the struggle between right and wrong ? We are all born with an inherent sense of justice. We are taught injustice, bigotry and hate. When we set aside the rights of others to satisfy our own needs, we go wrong. And now we are using the law to do just that. The law is straying from justice. The law is trying to impress moral behaviors upon man. That is not the purpose of law. Laws should protect us and provide a means of redress for offenses committed against us. Laws are not to dictate behaviors !  Those laws were written over two thousand years ago. Man has been attempting to justify other behaviors ever since.
There are plenty of " scholars " and " learned men and women " that will dispute me when I say this, our country was founded on those laws. Our system of government, as imperfect as man, used those laws as a base. It was that justice that was incorporated into the constitution and later, the bill of rights. I become concerned when I begin to see " laws " in contradiction to that original set of laws. If the scholars,lawyers and advocates of today spent as much time studying those laws, to better understand, as they did fabricating justification for there own laws, we would all be better served. Perhaps it is that " fear of the unknown " that drives them. Or, could it be the fear of the known and just not wanting to accept that ! Denial is an effective tool, it also fails in the end.

More of that

We hear about being politically correct. Our choice of words and phrasing comes into question all the time. Is that racist ? Is it offensive to others. It is getting to the point where you are hesitant to write or say anything at all.
Yesterday evening I was working on my family tree. I have an interest in genealogy and subscribe to Ancestry.com. As you may have seen on television, a little leaf will begin to shake when a " hint " is available. I had several shaking leaves and began to investigate them. Clicking on the one for my Great Great Grandmother I find her listed on an official government census schedule.The date is 1880. This schedule is called, " Defective,Dependent or Delinquent Class records. " Doesn't sound very politically correct to me. Further reading I find the description of this record. " Pauper and Indigent Inhabitants of Institutions,Poor Houses, Asylums, or housed at Public Expense in private housing. " Oh my, that is rather blunt. In 1880 they told it like it was !
It was interesting to find Great Great Grandmother, and Great Great Grandfather listed in this schedule. Gr.Gr. Grandfather suffered from rheumatism according to this listing. They were still living together in a private home. I can only assume it was at public expense of some fashion. I will now do further research on just what the program was.
I'm sure you have seen the ads on television. They show people making discoveries about their ancestors. The finds are always about something exciting. Perhaps it is a war story or some accomplishment. So far, that has not been the case with my family tree. Oh, I have found plenty of Veterans, from each and every war, no heroes though. I have gotten a glimpse of their lives,that is true. But, finding your great great grandparents on a list with that title is not fun ! Just goes to show, life has always been tough. I'm positive there was a stigma attached to being on that listing.
I do enjoy making these discoveries. It is always interesting to learn another detail about your ancestors. All those little details add up to give you further clues. Each generation influencing the next. Knowing what those influences were can add insight. The variable is the reaction to those influences. How were their children influenced by their parents circumstances ? Were they ashamed ? Great Great Grandfather had served in the civil war just fifteen years prior to this. There were no veteran benefits at that time. Well, there was one. A widow could file for a pension. My paternal Great Great Grandmother did so and received four dollars and thirty cents a month. Living Vets got nothing.
I will keep investigating those shaking leaves and seeking new branches. What discoveries await ? I think we all hope for the amazing. The reality is normally we find the mundane. The really great stuff we already know about. That is because it was talked about and remembered. The everyday stuff of life is seldom noteworthy.We must also remember that in the past people seldom talked about life's trials and tribulations. It just wasn't done. The deceased were just that, deceased. We don't talk about the dead. Those having hard times were not disparaged, they were helped. Nothing was said, at least not publicly about that. Medical issues were kept private. Attitudes were quite a bit different. We have been influenced, influenced by the past. Another circle in life. I'm hoping we return to that portion of the circle were we had manners and discretion. Compassion in the place of arrogance. We need a little more of that.

Listen

I was thinking about society in general, you know, how we get along with each other. I was thinking we expend a lot of energy yelling at each other. We call it being passionate about our beliefs. It has become commonplace and even expected. We emphasize our commitment to our causes by the use of crude and vulgar language, spoken loudly. Often words are spit out as violently as venom from a snake. We are demanding attention. Hear me,hear me we seem to be saying. Each of us becoming the town crier ! 

I wonder how this came to be. It wasn't always this way. There was a time in America when words were spoken in a genteel fashion. There was a time when we listened carefully to what others were saying. All too often we interrupt to interject our own thoughts. It has become a battle of volume, not content. The message is losing its' importance. It is the delivery that has taken precedence. Those that shout the loudest, win. There is an old saying about that, " the squeaky wheel gets the grease. " That statement holds a lot of truth. The squeaky wheel demands attention, and it is annoying. We grease that wheel more to silence the noise than to care for the bearing. We know the wheel should be attended to without being told, but yet we wait for that reminder. We wait to be goaded into action. Perhaps it is this very thing that is the cause of some of the problems we face today. Have we become too busy greasing the wheel to hear the message ?

When we were babies our mothers cooed to us. She did speak in a soft gentle way so as not to frighten. That voice brought calm to us when we were uncomfortable or upset. Calm is not achieved by yelling. It is true we may silence the noise but that doesn't mean we have achieved the goal. The goal is caring. The goal is to provide comfort and peace. Is that not what we all want in our lives ? We need to feel secure in our environment. When we feel threatened we tend to react. Our first reaction will be a loud cry ! If that cry goes unanswered some action takes place. We will strike out,either against an inanimate object or another person. 

We all seek peace in our own way. It is often the way we see our contemporaries attempt to do the same. We join in. Maybe that involves drinking alcohol,maybe we use drugs. We join in their causes, raising our voices in protest. We may march in protest or in support. We become loud and then take some action. Others may join the church. Then believing in the church become vocal. We begin to preach and demand action. Some will become zealots and others will lose faith. I think that no matter the choice we make to find the happiness and security we desire we do have to remember one thing. The first thing that soothed us and gave us that comfort was our mothers voice. That soft and gentle sound. We may not have understood the message, but calm was achieved. Sometimes a whisper is more powerful than a shout, the secret is that we need to listen. Shhh, be still and listen. Isn't that what mother would say ? Good advice never grows old. It is my belief that more of us need to just listen for a while. Sometimes, God just whispers.

A Life Unanswered

An old photograph. It has been worn,washed and abused. Well, not really abused, but I would say neglected. It is a photograph of my paternal Grandfather Elwood Reichart, Sr. I never knew the man, nor did my father for that matter. You see, the back story is this. My paternal grandmother Clara passed away less than a month after giving birth to my dad. Grandfather Elwood, the man in the picture, entrusted the care of my father and his brother to my paternal Great Grandfather and Great Grandmother. In this old picture you see him holding his two sons. I would estimate the picture being taken about 1925. In 1927 Grandfather remarried. He had two more sons, Peter and Harry. And then in 1932 he passed away. He was 32 years old. A short life to be sure. The cause of his demise was a ruptured appendix. In 1932 doctors knew little about what to do for this.
Grandfather Elwood first married Clara. That was in 1922 when he was twenty two years old. By 1924 he has two sons and his wife passes away. In 1927 he takes a second wife and has two sons. In 1932, one decade has passed and he departs this world. This picture is one of a few remaining traces of him. I should correct that statement. One of the few traces left of him that I am aware of. My own father had no tales to tell of him. I do have two other snapshots of him but that is all. The only other trace of him remaining to me is his headstone. I have a picture of that stone and have visited it. On it are a rope and anchor, a clue about his livelihood. He did love the water.
All his sons are now gone. His oldest Son Elwood had no sons, only daughters. My father had one son (me) and a daughter. With his second wife came a son Pete. Pete had two sons and a daughter. Finally there was Harry. He had a daughter. The second generation is all that remains. Myself,and my cousins. None of us ever knew this man. In his married life, a span of ten years, he produced four sons. The sons are gone and that is not unexpected given the time that has passed. What I believe is unusual is that no grandsons or granddaughters remember him. To all of us, he is the man in the picture. But for us he would fade into anonymity. Even if the picture remained, the identity would be lost.
My father seldom took out pictures to share with us. When he did do that it was almost always his photo album from the war. In that album where mostly pictures of airplanes and comrades. There were a few personal photos in there of family, but very few. I came into possession of that album. There are many pictures of my fathers " buddies " and they are all anonymous to me. Who were these men and what is there story ? Even the family members took research to identify.
There are a lot of questions I would love to ask Grandfather Elwood. What sort of man was he ? He was spoken of very little and I got the impression, even as a child, that Great Grandfather did not approve of him. Was that because he married his daughter and she subsequently passed away during childbirth ? Did Great Grandfather harbor resentment ? Or did it have something to do with Grandfather Elwood remarrying, having two more sons, but never taking his first two sons home to live with him ? A curious thing to me. Did his second wife, a fine lady I knew as a child as Aunt Lina, not want the other two children as her responsibility ? It could be that Great Grandmother having taken care of those boys for two years after her daughters death did not want to relinquish them. I'll never know those answers. And that is what I see when I look at that old photo. A life unanswered. It is also why I have taken to writing everything down. I do not want to leave unanswered questions. Slowly, over the years I am going to tell. I hope someone finds it of interest.
Somehow I feel the need to explain. Perhaps that feeling stems from some guilt. Guilt for mistakes I have made over the years. And maybe some guilt for certain choices. Maybe it is nothing more than I need to talk the whole deal over, this deal we call life. Am I living my life correctly ? It is good to question, don't you think ? Sometimes the questions are more important than the answers.

Right and Wrong

I read a fine prayer composed by Billy Graham when he was 95 years old. Now whether you are a Christian or not made little difference to the main topic of his prayer. I suppose I could copy and paste this prayer into this blog but I only want to talk about his main point. The main focus, as I read it, was his observation about changing the names of things. I have spoken myself of semantics and the use of words. I was not able to put it quite as clearly as Billy Graham did however. The jest of what I heard him say is, you can call it anything you like, but it doesn't change the object. It also does not change the action. Billy Graham was, as expected, speaking of sin. Yes, it is a Christian concept, this sin business. When we say the word sin, what is the implication ? Wrongdoing followed by punishment. I think that is a fair statement.
Mr Graham pointed out the tendency man has to rename an action to justify it. Take the word abortion for instance. What does it mean ? The dictionary says : the deliberate termination of a human pregnancy. Consider the word terminate, what does that mean ? To end. To kill. Those in support of abortion do not think of it as ending a life however, it is terminating a pregnancy. I fail to see the difference. That is what Billy Graham is talking about. Whether you agree with terminating a life that is either unwanted or unplanned is the moral decision, it does not alter the fact.
I was thinking about these little distinctions when I was listening to the news. They were talking about the flood of illegal aliens coming across the border. One group was calling them, undocumented immigrants. Further in the editorial another group referred to them as refugees. What are they ? All of the above ? Depends upon your position doesn't it ? The thing is they are here illegally. No matter the title you apply, that fact remains unaltered.
The point I am trying to make, in my stumbling way, is the same as Billy Graham. You can change the name but it doesn't change the action. Changing the name does not make a wrong action right ! The act of legally allowing a certain behavior also does not make that action right. You may fabricate any justification for doing something that you know to be wrong, but that justification will not validate that action.
There is no such thing as a little right, or a little wrong ! It is either right or wrong ! 

Nesting

When your children become grown and set out into the world, you are left alone. This is called the empty nest syndrome. For most of us we transition to this without issue. Oh, we are aware and feel a little lonely at times, there are occasions when we feel those bittersweet memories of days gone by. This can be especially true during birthdays and holidays. For my wife and I we have one son that lives far from home and we only rarely get to visit. Our other son, however, lives here in town. We see him almost everyday. I would say we have both felt a little of the empty nest but never have had the full experience. I'll say that is a good thing.
The son that lives here in town has two children. The grandchildren have spent a great deal of time in my nest. They have since birth and have been a constant. This week however they are both off to camp. The nest is empty. The baby birds are on the fly ! Oh, this isn't the first time that has happened. They go to this camp every year. There has been other times when they were gone, off on vacation or various field trips, etc. But for some reason I'm feeling the emptiness of the nest. Perhaps it is because they are not allowed to take phones with them. It is very unusual for it to have been this long without at least talking with them, been three days now ! Good grief, I wonder what they are doing ?
I am prepared for their return. Every year when they return from camp I notice the growth. They leave for five days and return what seems like five years later. They have grown. It is a noticeable change. I am, of course, speaking of emotional growth. They always return just a little more mature, a little more grown up. Yes, a little less dependent and more independent. Isn't that at the heart of this empty nesting ,dependence ? We all what to feel needed. When those that we feel are dependent upon us no longer require that, we feel empty.
Isn't that a strange thing ? We really should feel fulfilled and satisfied. We have accomplished our goals. Is it not our goal to make these little people responsible,mature citizens ? To send them forth to the betterment of mankind ? This should be especially so with grandchildren, after all, we have now accomplished this mission, twice ! But, that is not how I feel. I what them back. It will be alright if  they hang out in my nest for just a while longer. I have treats !
The kids will be back on Saturday. I am anxious to hear their stories and see their smiling faces. We will have a discussion. Yes, these children have progressed to that stage, we can discuss the events of the past week. That is another sign of maturity,when you can sit with the grandchildren and discuss concepts, not just events. Maturity on the part of the grandchildren, not necessarily the grandparents ! Milestones and markers, we all have them in our lives. This summer camp has always been a marker for the grandchildren, and us. Soon this marker will be left behind and we all must move forward. The nest is still here, any time you need a rest.

Speaking of Doubt

The basis of science is doubt. Science is the quest for proof. The pure scientist always searches for the truth of the matter. Then, having discovered the truth ,he strives to reproduce it. If he can reproduce the effect, cause or solution  he then believes,as fact, that it is the truth. This is true in the physical world but not in the spiritual. The spiritual is based upon belief. Can belief be proved ?
The quest for proof of the spiritual is where the scientist and the religious thinker take different paths. Science is based on doubts. I think one searches for justification and/or affirmation only when one has doubts. When one doubts their own beliefs and/or actions the search for truth begins. To the believer the search has already ended and requires no proof. This would seem to be at odds with science. It does not have to be so however. Many famous and important scientists were also religious people.
Consider this, the sun rises in the east. It is only east because man has labeled it so. Does that make it truth ? We take that as truth because those before us have told us so. We trust their knowledge. Can we prove that it is the east ? Only if we agree with those that came before us. But the bigger question here is, does it matter what we call it ? We know the sun will rise and it will be in the same relative position every day. Science can now explain why that sun appears to rise in the east and set in the west. There is a logical explanation for it. Can science explain why the earth orbits the sun ? No, science can offer an explanation as to why the earth remains in orbit, and a theory on how it got there, but no explanation of why. A random act ?  Doesn't seem logical, a casual observation of the universe shows this to be quite a common occurrence. Bodies orbiting other bodies. Although it has never been seen, it is taken as fact that atoms have a nucleus and are orbited by electrons. This occurs all the way to the celestial level and beyond. There are galaxies orbiting other galaxies ! Given that one would have to hypothesis that it is by design. But who or what designed it ? A bit of  a conundrum, wouldn't you say ?
Another example may be, science states that energy can neither be created or destroyed. It can only be converted from one form into another. IE : a gas into a liquid. Energy is the ability to cause change in matter or the environment. Einstein has theorized that Energy is equal to mass times the speed of light squared. This general theory of relativity is considered to be fact. It has been proven by experimentation. What has not been proven or shown is the source of this " light ".
The time space continuum. Scientists believe that it exists, they take that as fact. Could you not then deduce that the light is the beginning and the end ? Can we travel along this continuum ? If you believe Einstein we certainly can. Will we one day do so ? Perhaps. What would you expect to find at the beginning. I would expect light. But if there is a beginning there has to be an end. Not so, and science agrees. Space and time is infinite. The one constant, as theorized by Einstein and later proven by experimentation, is the speed of light. Energy if you will. Science states it can neither be created nor destroyed. If we cannot create or destroy it that means we can not reproduce it ( energy ) but science says that energy is a fact.
A circle has no beginning and no end yet we measure the circumference. How ? We chose an arbitrary point to use as reference. Not very scientific but it works. Why does it work ? Because it is a physical thing, subject to physical laws.
I would say the scientist has doubts but searches for truth. He observes and then seeks confirmation. The doubt is removed and replaced by fact. The religious man also has doubts and searches for truth. The only difference is in the matter of proof. The proof for the spiritual is written in the history of man. Secular science has discovered ancient Hebrew writing on a piece of pottery dating from the 10th century BC or BCE if you prefer. It is now taken as fact that writing existed at least that far back. It is assumed, although it can not be proven, that an oral history existed prior to that. Now, the Bible, which is a compilation of oral histories, again assumed but certainly not proven, begins by saying in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was empty,darkness was over the the surface of the deep,and the spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said, Let there be light and there was light. Energy. Energy remember is the ability to cause change in matter or the environment. One would have to conclude from that history that God is the source of light/energy. Everything that is affected after that is a result of this energy. What proof is offered ? Energy is a constant, everything else is a variable. In the oral history, since written down, it is clearly stated that God, or energy if you prefer, is unchanging, the beginning and the end. It can neither be created or destroyed, it is infinite. Does it make a difference what you call it ? Energy or God ? Can secular science prove that the universe is infinite ? No, it can not, but yet scientists all agree that it is so. A belief that is a truth. Does science doubt this ?  Of course, because that is the basis of science, doubt. Still the scientist goes forward on belief, searching for truth. Secular science now teaches the big bang theory. Consider the history as written. The earth was formed and empty,darkness was over the surface of the deep, ( a black hole ? ) and the spirit of God (energy ) was hovering above the waters. Water, as secular science teaches us is the basis for life. And God said, Let there be light. Energy, the force required for change in matter or the environment. BANG, just like that. Pretty astute observation from a people that hadn't learned to write and certainly had little knowledge of science. A story you say, a fairy tale or the telling of a fact. A completely random occurrence that took place over 13 Billion years ago and hasn't happened again. At least not to our knowledge it hasn't. But let us assume it has. Would that then prove it was a random act ? Or would it support a design theory ? For the strict scientist the event must be repeatable for it to be proven. Until man can create energy, not just produce it from altering the known elements in nature, the source of all energy must be hypothesized. That is unless we were told the truth of it. And so that leaves us with a question, who or what is God ? Science will never find the answer to that, it is a matter of belief. For the believer the search for truth lies in the pages of the Bible. Secular science continually provides proof of the truths as told in the Bible even though that is not there intentions. It is ironic how the " smarter " we become regarding science and nature the more proof we provide for the truths written over 1500 years ago. Could it be that the truth was revealed to man ? Thirteen billion years later and we are still learning. Thirteen billion years, to the creator, a brief burst of light. A bit of energy expended. Man has learned to split an atom and the release of energy is astonishing, almost incomprehensible and now you think you can explain the big bang ! The real question still remains unanswered, what is the source of energy ?

Looking for my friends house

I have been looking for a new church to attend. Not that I have been attending any one in particular here in Greensboro. I must confess I have been rather relaxed in my attendance. In my youth I attended on a regular basis, almost as a matter of routine. I do think that is as it should be. There is comfort in  routine, something that needs no planning. A time devoted to one thing. And devotion is one thing that should be related to church. Seems like the least we should do. Also attending on a regular basis can lead to community. And does not the Bible say, wherever two or more should gather in my name, I am there. Yes I do believe he is everywhere and with everyone all the time, but God does not want us to be lonely.
I am looking for a church. I am not looking for a building however. The building itself is unimportant. It is what is housed inside that matters. The congregants, or parishioners if you prefer, are the body of the church. The makeup if you will. How you interact with them is an important consideration. This interaction does take time. Any relationship takes time to develop. The head of the church is the Pastor or Priest. It is he or she that leads the flock. The direction of this leadership is of great importance. It is this person that must instill the desire to return. It is their calling that we must first respond to. They are the host.
I go to the church to worship. I go to reaffirm my relationship with my God. That is what it should be, but I am human after all. I get distracted easily. The relationship with my fellow worshipers and the direction of the leader can lead me away. Attending a new church is like forming a new friendship. There is a period of politeness, followed by a period of getting to know one another. It can be an uncomfortable time and one of anticipation.
In the end the burden is upon the host. Can the host introduce me to the person I came to see ? Isn't that the purpose of the visit ? The church I intend to visit has a new host. I am hopeful that he knows my friend. I am hopeful for a relationship. We shall see.

Accepting Fate

The first one up makes the coffee. It is an unwritten rule. This morning it was my wife. Now as anyone that reads my blogs knows I have a peculator. It takes just a little bit longer than an automatic drip but well worth the wait. I went out and poured the coffee. I brought my wife her cup as well. Doing so she says, thank you I hope it as good as when you make it. My response was, it will not be. I get a look of surprise and somewhat of a scowl. Warranted you say ? I explain that to her the coffee will not taste as good, but to me it will taste better. That is because things always taste better when someone else makes them. I have no explanation as to why that should be so, it just is. It really makes little difference what it is, works with all kinds of snacks,drinks or whatever. They all taste better when someone else prepares them or brings them to you. I must say the coffee I'm sipping right now is delicious.
Have you ever waited for your spouse or significant other to get up when you want something ? I mean, you are sitting there watching television or working on the computer, thirsty. You want a drink but don't get up. As soon as your wife gets up you ask, mind getting me a drink ? And you do so with a big smile and maybe an, I love you. The whole time you watched and waited for that chance. You know you have. I have, but not because I was too lazy to go get it myself, no, but because I know how much more enjoyment I will get from having it brought to me. It is a matter of restraint and economics. Not going for instant gratification I am learning patience, and waiting for another to get it cuts down on the amount used, so it is more economical. So, you see, it truly is a wise decision to just wait. And not only that it will taste even better ! It is one of those win-win situations. The other person was getting up anyway.
There are people however that love to prepare food and drinks. They seem to get a great deal of enjoyment from that activity. All I can say to those people is, I'm here for you ! I will accept whatever is offered and enjoy it thoroughly. I will praise your efforts and offer encouragement and support. Should you find yourself needing someone to serve, I'm your man. I appreciate it. I really do. Givers need receivers and I'm a receiver. I didn't choose this position in life I was just given it. I'll do my best to accept my fate gracefully.

Commercial Calender

I had occasion to go to the local Walmart, something I try to avoid, and couldn't help but notice a big section of bare shelving. Having been to the Walmart before, and becoming accustomed to the commercialism on display there, I immediately realized they were setting up their back to school displays ! Checking the date I see it is already the 6th of July. Yes, it is time to start buying supplies. I suspect it has something to do with the fact that there are no more holidays until labor day in September. We do have to push for something !
Is it a benefit to the parents or a burden ? I mean the children will soon start wanting the book bags and various supplies on display. Is this an opportunity to spread the cost out over time or just an excuse to have the kids bug you ? I understand the cost of supplies is significant. Many teachers require specific things, I do not necessarily agree with it all but, that is not the point. Walmart,along with many others, will utilize this time to maximize profits. As soon as they are available they will be posting supply lists from the schools themselves. They do it here and I'm sure they do elsewhere, as a "service " to their guests. That's another thing that bugs me, don't call me your guest, I don't charge my guests.
There was a time when labor day signaled the white sales. It just isn't as popular now. I expect it is partly because we do not follow convention as closely as in the past. As a result there is little profit to be made from the white sale so we just skip over that. Let's charge into the Halloween and Thanksgiving sales after we return to school. Those are the warm ups for the biggy. It is not far off my friends ! One hundred seventy three days to be exact. Better get started.

Seeking Truth

The discernment of truth ought be the driving factor in our lives. Truth inspires us. Only by seeking the truth will true happiness be revealed.
That thought came to me in a conversation. There are times when snippets of logic and truth appear. A brief moment of lucid thought. I have taken to keeping a notepad beside my computer to write these down. I read somewhere that some writers carry a small notebook with them at all times. I can see where that could prove useful. Anyway, as I was " talking " the idea of truth came to mind. Each of us hold our own truths. We can be influenced to believe or reject certain truths. These are the truths that can not be proven or disproved. These truths, just are. It is the discernment of these truths that should given priority in our lives.
It is true that our truths may change over time. What was truth when I was twenty is not necessarily true today. That is because I have learned,matured and become more discriminating in my thoughts and actions. That is the function of living, is it not? I believe we should collect information, insight and wisdom to share with others. Alone, one develops tunnel vision and can not see the truth. What value is knowledge if it is not shared ? Of what value is knowledge, if not examined ?
Of all the creatures on the earth man is the only one that seeks the truth. Sure there are animals that are " smart. " I am not saying man is the only intelligent creature, but rather that man contemplates the universe. All animals focus on survival. I do not believe any animal, excepting man, has that ability. That ability to question what is the truth. Man has questioned, since the beginning, his purpose in life. Most of us believe there has to be something more. Is that vanity ?  What is the truth of it ? The discernment of truth ought be a driving factor in our lives. In other words, establish your truths but always seek more. How many layers must you go through ? How deep is the universe ? The search for the truth is endless.

Restraint

I wonder why someone would reject the idea of God or religion. It is a concept foreign to me. I was raised in a Christian household, my friends were Christians and a few Jews. It was not a topic we discussed much, it was just a matter of fact. Some were more active in the church than others, some shared more freely and some seldom spoke of it at all. Growing up I knew no one personally that denied the existence of God. Of course that was back in the day, back in the day when it wasn't " cool " to do so. I know it was the dark ages. Man is so much more enlightened now. Whatever the case may be the whole denial of a God, any God, is somewhat baffling to me. To some, I am sure they are just as baffled by my belief in something that requires no proof. Some require proof before belief. The error there is simple, if I have proof before belief, it is not belief , it is fact. Fact is fact and belief is belief, different things entirely.
The God that I believe in, and his son, have dictated a way of life. The Bible and other religious writings provide the basis for living a good life while on this earth. You could view them as rules. Rules provide restraint. Perhaps it is this restraint that the non believer objects too. None of us really enjoy following the rules all the time. We all like to cheat just a little bit, circumvent the rules. To the believer breaking these rules has consequences, serious consequences. Could it be that the non believer just wishes to be free of restraint ? If you do not believe, there can be no consequences, right ? Well, maybe, but I need proof. Can I be that sure ? That is where belief enters the equation. How can I prove that there are no consequences ? I can die. Problem there is only I will know because no one has ever returned from death to say otherwise. Well, one has, but that is a matter of belief as well.
As a general rule, man exercises restraint as a matter of course. It is wise to do so. This is learned from childhood. When we are young we do things unrestrained at times and suffer the consequences. The consequences may be an injury or a reprimand. We may believe we can get away with it but are soon proved wrong ! The proof followed the belief. Why should this not be so with life ? Will not proof follow my belief ? Is there any harm in the belief ? No, belief is not inherently wrong. Belief causes an action to occur. I believe, therefore I am. A lady named Rose Descartes said that and I believe it to be true. She also said " to know what people really think, pay regard to what they do, rather than the words they say. " I would also have to agree with that assessment.
I do believe those that profess no belief in God but follow his rules, living with restraint as it were, will not be denied the reward. The existence of God requires no proof but belief that he does. I believe therefore I am. A verbal denial is no more proof of non existence, than a verbal proclamation that he does. The proof lies in the action. It is my opinion that the non believer denies themselves. Their non belief does nothing to alter my belief. It is my belief that provides me with comfort in times of need and hope for the future. It is a place to turn when there are no answers. A place that requires no proof. My belief has turned to faith. It is this faith that sustains me. You do not believe ? It is my hope that one day you will discover the truth and in that truth find comfort. I also believe you already know the truth, you just don't want to admit to that truth.
What is real and what is not ? You only need to believe.

Nice Things

There are those that want " nice things, " I think that is true for most of us, and it is what drives the materialism we see in America today. Truth be told that is true in most civilized societies. There is a trade off however, practicality. Objects that we admire are often not very practical for everyday use. The initial cost or maintenance of those items can inhibit the enjoyment of actually using the item. Which do you prefer, something you use every day or a beautiful object on the shelf ? I get far more pleasure from a snapshot I have taken than the greatest work of art. That is to say, I would trade the Mona Lisa for a picture of my Mother. The latter has the greater value.
These thoughts came to mind as I was reading a blog by a friend of mine. She was talking about our home town. More specifically our home town from fifty years ago or more. She did point out that we tend to look at the past through rose colored glasses. Things have changed. The change has been dramatic, of that I have no doubt. It has been many years since I was there in person but hear the stories. Many older buildings have been razed and replaced by modern dwellings. The main street is vibrant and alive. But for the locals, those few that were born and raised there, that same street is like the proverbial toy store. All they can do is look at the " nice things " in the windows. The items are not for them.
It seems to me that my hometown has become one of those " nice things. " It is something that most people covet. For those with the means they can modify the " set " and enjoy the area as they wish. For those that have lived here for generations we don't like our furniture moved. It is a matter of enjoying the " nice things. " The definition of them is what causes the friction. The new vs the old. What is more comfortable ? An old pair of shoes or the latest style ,brand new off the shelf ?  Depends on the frequency of use does it not ? The tourists, visitors and summer residents do not mind using those " nice things " the new things. They have plenty of resources to repair or replace. The locals prefer to take care of what they have. For them, those are the " nice things. "
The unfortunate reality in all of this is revenue. We all must have a revenue stream. The fact is from this stream comes the " nice things " we want. They must be paid for and those doing the paying get the majority opinion. It has always been so and so it will remain. If you control the stream ( the water ) you control the land. That has always been a basic truth. You may not like the taste of it, but it sustains life.
Each of us must decide what " nice things " we want. It is an individual thing and there is no right or wrong.
I was reminded of some lyrics from a Merle Haggard song, " another class of people put us somewhere just below,one more reason for Mama's hungry eyes. " Mama didn't need to be hungry though, she wanted those " nice things " she thought others had. It is the same with all of us I believe. The defining of the " nice things " in life can define your happiness as well. The past can not be changed, only enjoyed in memory. Enjoy the " nice things " in life today, for tomorrow they may be gone. 

Balanced Thoughts

Thoughts and the composition of words. Often times it is difficult to marry the two. The selection of the word, in context with the thought, it what completes the thought. I believe a good composition is like a good conversation, only the conversation is with oneself. When others can, " listen " to that conversation you have been successful. I should say, listen and understand the conversation. I prefer brevity in speech and composition. I like to get to the point. An adage is one of my favorite vehicles for expression. I also enjoy the quotes of others, brief  moments of very lucid thinking. Those with a quick wit, and a sarcastic bent, tend to amuse me the most. That is true even when I am the object of that sarcasm. It does give one pause.
Impulsive thoughts often hold the greatest truths. Those thoughts can also do the greatest harm. That happens because of the choice of words and the composition of the message. The validity of the statement is often unchanged by waiting a little bit, but a softening of the blow is accomplished. It is when we modify the thought with unnecessary words that the message can get garbled. By adding fluff the message is muffled.
Now, well considered thoughts and choices in vocabulary can provide a great deal more clarity but lose the reader or listener. The journey to the thought gets tedious and uneventful. Little sparks of light need to be provided along the way. These little sources of enlightenment should be pieces of the thought. Many interject other concepts into the discussion and muddy the path. It does become harder to follow. A popular choice these days to add that spark is interjecting strong,offensive and brief words of a descriptive nature. These words seldom bear any relevance to the topic. Nouns used as adjectives do not lend action to the composition but can serve as a distraction.
As with most everything a balance must be achieved. This balance is what holds our interest. Which way is the statement or thought going ? Will I agree or disagree ? The perfect balance causes others to consider. Well balanced thoughts can go either way. Will my thoughts tip that balance ? I hope so because that is the purpose of writing or expressing those thoughts. No two of us think exactly alike. Oh, we may agree in principle on many subjects, but how we arrive at the conclusion may be quite different. It is our attempt at being understood. That was summed up nicely by whomever first said, " actions speak louder than words. " I agree. Actions are the result of thought. It is the thought that counts. A thought without action holds little value for me. I think that is why I write. I have thoughts and need to act upon them. I hope I include some bits of enlightenment along the way. Can I tip the balance ?  What if the action is the words ? Isn't that what happened 238 tears ago today ? Fifty six men signed a document ; of words married to thought, and declared a nation independent. Now that is action. Pretty good words and an excellent composition.