Today is Friday. It’s 6:20am. It’s cold and rainy outside, but from the radar, this may be the last rain we get in this particular storm. I understand this storm dumped snow in the Rockies and has brought down some cold, chilly air from the North to a large part of the country. It’s time. We need the change.
The girls are rousting out and are getting breakfast. That usually consists of cereal, either hot or cold, juice, and sometimes bagels and/or toast. They seem to like that about as well as anything. On Saturdays, we sometimes fix waffles or some such.
Several girls are in a state of decision-making right now. One has just enlisted in the Air Force on a delayed-entry plan and will go in a few days following her graduation in May. One has a grandmother who is terminal and must hold it together (decent behavior) through this process. Still another is deciding if she will continue to act out and thereby be removed from this place to go to a more secure environment. Yet another is trying to decide whether she has intrinsic value or not to both herself and others.
You get the picture. It’s always something here at the home. We have about a week to go before we get a week off, but we’re not counting the days any more. We’re doing fine, as I thought we would all along. Although there were times….
Thanks so much for your prayers and your concern. Our Creator is indeed overshadowing this place and yours.
Friday, October 27, 2006
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
I Have Enough
As I was taking the girls to school this morning, they were talking about watching one of the many reality shows that is now on television. They were saying that they really enjoyed the show because it showed the real world.
Now, I’m no connoisseur of these shows, and I thought to myself, “What, don’t you guys think you’re living in the real world right now?”
Reality television is far from the reality that most of us know. If someone were to do a reality series based on the lives of ordinary people, it would tank rather quickly, because that reality is one that is mostly mundane, routine, and ordinary. There’s not the drama and crisis that is shown on the so-called reality shows.
Yes, what those shows portray is, in many cases, reality for someone. There truly are car accidents, tense moments in the emergency room, stress-filled meetings, etc. I know…I’ve been there and done that. But in the ordinary course of events for most of us, reality consists of school, exercise, getting along with others, homework, earning money, raising kids, going to church, and keeping the house clean.
I may ask my girls if they think they are living in the real world, or if the real world is somehow beyond what they are experiencing right now. I might be surprised at their answers. We all think we are living the dull life and that everyone else has a much better existence than we do. That is, we think that until we jump the fence into the greener pastures of someone else’s life and discover that they too have weeds, rocks, and other things that make our routine existence seem rather inviting once again.
I don’t know about you, but I see enough reality every day. I see the effects of rape and neglect. I deal with mental and emotional issues that would try anyone’s soul. I know that there are girls “out there” that are hurting far beyond what anyone should have to bear, and that we just don’t have the resources to care for them. I don’t need to live someone else’s reality in order to fulfill my life. I have enough on my plate.
Now, I’m no connoisseur of these shows, and I thought to myself, “What, don’t you guys think you’re living in the real world right now?”
Reality television is far from the reality that most of us know. If someone were to do a reality series based on the lives of ordinary people, it would tank rather quickly, because that reality is one that is mostly mundane, routine, and ordinary. There’s not the drama and crisis that is shown on the so-called reality shows.
Yes, what those shows portray is, in many cases, reality for someone. There truly are car accidents, tense moments in the emergency room, stress-filled meetings, etc. I know…I’ve been there and done that. But in the ordinary course of events for most of us, reality consists of school, exercise, getting along with others, homework, earning money, raising kids, going to church, and keeping the house clean.
I may ask my girls if they think they are living in the real world, or if the real world is somehow beyond what they are experiencing right now. I might be surprised at their answers. We all think we are living the dull life and that everyone else has a much better existence than we do. That is, we think that until we jump the fence into the greener pastures of someone else’s life and discover that they too have weeds, rocks, and other things that make our routine existence seem rather inviting once again.
I don’t know about you, but I see enough reality every day. I see the effects of rape and neglect. I deal with mental and emotional issues that would try anyone’s soul. I know that there are girls “out there” that are hurting far beyond what anyone should have to bear, and that we just don’t have the resources to care for them. I don’t need to live someone else’s reality in order to fulfill my life. I have enough on my plate.
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Connections
It’s been a few days since I last wrote. I dunno. It just seems like the days fly around here. Then at night when things quiet down, I’m too tired to do much thinking, let alone writing. So, that’s the way it is.
We’re thinking about going to Western Kansas on our next weekend off. We used to live out there, and think that maybe seeing the folks at church on a Sunday next month might be a good thing. Of course, we’d stop in Central Kansas on the way out there, in order to see the in-laws. We’d then take our time going on out to God’s country.
In many ways, it is indeed God’s country. Sparse, expansive, and exquisite, the Western Kansas prairie is truly one of the wonders of the world. If you haven’t taken the time to become acquainted with the short-grass prairie and the people who live with it, you’ve truly missed something special.
Impossible to tame, the prairies of Western Kansas only allow humanity to scratch out an existence and a living in accordance with the laws of the prairie, not the laws of mankind. When man understands that it is the prairie that is in control, he does rather well, living in a sort of symbiotic relationship with it. When man forgets and thinks he’s the cheese, the prairie bites back, and does so in a way that makes for an indelible lesson in humility.
That kind of living also makes the people who are there a bit different than those who live in a more citified and artificial existence. Folks there are more down to earth…pragmatic…normal, if you will. Yes, they still have the normal human frailties…greedy…gossips…indulgent. But they also have a way of thinking, living, and relating to others that is refreshing and soulful.
We cherish our Western Kansas connections, and hope we’ll be able to make the trip soon.
We’re thinking about going to Western Kansas on our next weekend off. We used to live out there, and think that maybe seeing the folks at church on a Sunday next month might be a good thing. Of course, we’d stop in Central Kansas on the way out there, in order to see the in-laws. We’d then take our time going on out to God’s country.
In many ways, it is indeed God’s country. Sparse, expansive, and exquisite, the Western Kansas prairie is truly one of the wonders of the world. If you haven’t taken the time to become acquainted with the short-grass prairie and the people who live with it, you’ve truly missed something special.
Impossible to tame, the prairies of Western Kansas only allow humanity to scratch out an existence and a living in accordance with the laws of the prairie, not the laws of mankind. When man understands that it is the prairie that is in control, he does rather well, living in a sort of symbiotic relationship with it. When man forgets and thinks he’s the cheese, the prairie bites back, and does so in a way that makes for an indelible lesson in humility.
That kind of living also makes the people who are there a bit different than those who live in a more citified and artificial existence. Folks there are more down to earth…pragmatic…normal, if you will. Yes, they still have the normal human frailties…greedy…gossips…indulgent. But they also have a way of thinking, living, and relating to others that is refreshing and soulful.
We cherish our Western Kansas connections, and hope we’ll be able to make the trip soon.
Monday, October 16, 2006
The Full Measure
Our minister pointed us to a verse, in closing his sermon yesterday, that I had never really seen before. It’s found in Revelation (yeah, that book that no one can understand), chapter 21 and verse 7. The New American Standard Bible renders it thus, “He who overcomes shall inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son.”
Note especially the first part. “He who overcomes shall inherit these things.”
Now, we could get into a discussion of what “these things” are, but I think if one looks at prior verses, he can get a good idea of what these things are. My point is that it doesn’t say that all who overcome will share in an inheritance. I think it is saying that each one who overcomes will inherit a full measure of “these things” and not have to share or divide an inheritance with anyone.
How can that be? I don’t know the answer to that any more than I can know how God can be omnipresent or three persons in one. Put this one in the “unknowable” bin and mark it as “wondrous” along with so many other grand things we find in God.
My kids aren’t going to get much of an inheritance from me. And what they do get, they’ll have to share. But it won’t be that way, I think, with God and me. I’ll get the full measure of the inheritance, just as you’ll also get the full measure of the inheritance. Think about that today.
Note especially the first part. “He who overcomes shall inherit these things.”
Now, we could get into a discussion of what “these things” are, but I think if one looks at prior verses, he can get a good idea of what these things are. My point is that it doesn’t say that all who overcome will share in an inheritance. I think it is saying that each one who overcomes will inherit a full measure of “these things” and not have to share or divide an inheritance with anyone.
How can that be? I don’t know the answer to that any more than I can know how God can be omnipresent or three persons in one. Put this one in the “unknowable” bin and mark it as “wondrous” along with so many other grand things we find in God.
My kids aren’t going to get much of an inheritance from me. And what they do get, they’ll have to share. But it won’t be that way, I think, with God and me. I’ll get the full measure of the inheritance, just as you’ll also get the full measure of the inheritance. Think about that today.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Who Would Have Thought?
I was in the local Subway sandwich shoppe this evening buying sandwiches for the girls for movie night. On Fridays, we often rent a movie and have movie night at our house. I had orders for five sandwiches, and was telling the young man what to put on what sandwich, when someone standing in line behind me said, “Jay,” and I turned. There were several people in line and I wasn’t sure which one said it until she said it again.
It was someone from my hometown not far from here. She recognized my voice, she said, as I ordered sandwiches. I didn’t recognize her until she said who she was.
Turns out she was a teen playing softball years ago and recognized me because she caught and I umpired…calling balls and strikes right behind her.
Life sends everyone into some twists and turns from time to time. Who would have thought that such a meeting would ever take place in a sandwich shop? Moreover, who would have thought that she’s living not far from us? I have to wonder just how many people I know are living within 5 miles of me? 10 miles of me? 20 miles?
I’d like to see a map of this area with the pins stuck in it wherever someone lives that I know or have known over the years. I think I’d be surprised, and I’d like to think that I’d remember them all with memories that are pleasant.
But that map will never happen, and I probably won’t ever know who is near me that I know. And maybe that’s for the better.
It was someone from my hometown not far from here. She recognized my voice, she said, as I ordered sandwiches. I didn’t recognize her until she said who she was.
Turns out she was a teen playing softball years ago and recognized me because she caught and I umpired…calling balls and strikes right behind her.
Life sends everyone into some twists and turns from time to time. Who would have thought that such a meeting would ever take place in a sandwich shop? Moreover, who would have thought that she’s living not far from us? I have to wonder just how many people I know are living within 5 miles of me? 10 miles of me? 20 miles?
I’d like to see a map of this area with the pins stuck in it wherever someone lives that I know or have known over the years. I think I’d be surprised, and I’d like to think that I’d remember them all with memories that are pleasant.
But that map will never happen, and I probably won’t ever know who is near me that I know. And maybe that’s for the better.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Do I Really Want to Know?
For a very few months a couple years ago, I taught at a vocational school in Lawrence. I taught Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel to older youth and young adults who were in the school’s program.
The classes I had were a very diverse population. A couple of the classes had two women who were Muslim and who wore the full-length brown dress with a full head covering and a kind of crosshatch cloth covering their faces.
At first, they were somewhat difficult to get to know, as I am used to facial expression and observation of body language. Both of these kinds of communication were virtually impossible with these women.
I soon learned, however, that voice inflection played a big part in how they communicated with the outside world. I also listened closely to the actual words they said and the way they structured their sentences, although it was clear that English was a second language for them.
I learned to communicate with these women and pick up nuances from their speech and actions that told me things they had never actually said in words. It was good for me to have these women in my classes, and I grew to like them and see them as more than anomalies or abnormalities that had to be dealt with somehow in the name of diversity and political correctness.
I wonder about Sadiqah and Abeer now. I have not a clue where they are, what they are doing, or what their situation in life is like. I think I would like to know, but then again….
The classes I had were a very diverse population. A couple of the classes had two women who were Muslim and who wore the full-length brown dress with a full head covering and a kind of crosshatch cloth covering their faces.
At first, they were somewhat difficult to get to know, as I am used to facial expression and observation of body language. Both of these kinds of communication were virtually impossible with these women.
I soon learned, however, that voice inflection played a big part in how they communicated with the outside world. I also listened closely to the actual words they said and the way they structured their sentences, although it was clear that English was a second language for them.
I learned to communicate with these women and pick up nuances from their speech and actions that told me things they had never actually said in words. It was good for me to have these women in my classes, and I grew to like them and see them as more than anomalies or abnormalities that had to be dealt with somehow in the name of diversity and political correctness.
I wonder about Sadiqah and Abeer now. I have not a clue where they are, what they are doing, or what their situation in life is like. I think I would like to know, but then again….
Monday, October 09, 2006
Organization of the Heart
I went into the maintenance shop on campus today. We no longer have a maintenance man, and those of us on campus are sharing responsibilities for that job. I have been in the shop before to look for something specific, but this time, I just looked around to be certain that I had an idea of what we have there in case I need something.
I was pleasantly surprised at the good condition of the tools and the arrangement of the spare parts for electrical, plumbing, etc. Someone has taken good care of that area. So often, those areas are messy and unorganized. Not so with this shop.
I had to think that the condition of that maintenance shop is in many ways similar to the conditions of our hearts…not our physical blood pumps, but the place of our being within us. Sometimes, there’s nothing there but a big disorganized mess. But when we allow God to come in, He cleans up and cleans out. He organizes. He directs. He cleans. And He keeps it that way as long as we allow Him to do so.
I hope we’re able to keep the maintenance shop some semblance of clean and organized. It’s so much easier to work in one when all of the tools and spare parts are easily located, and the work area is clean and inviting. I also hope I’m able to keep my heart clean and organized, as always, relying on my God to do all the real work in that area.
I was pleasantly surprised at the good condition of the tools and the arrangement of the spare parts for electrical, plumbing, etc. Someone has taken good care of that area. So often, those areas are messy and unorganized. Not so with this shop.
I had to think that the condition of that maintenance shop is in many ways similar to the conditions of our hearts…not our physical blood pumps, but the place of our being within us. Sometimes, there’s nothing there but a big disorganized mess. But when we allow God to come in, He cleans up and cleans out. He organizes. He directs. He cleans. And He keeps it that way as long as we allow Him to do so.
I hope we’re able to keep the maintenance shop some semblance of clean and organized. It’s so much easier to work in one when all of the tools and spare parts are easily located, and the work area is clean and inviting. I also hope I’m able to keep my heart clean and organized, as always, relying on my God to do all the real work in that area.
Friday, October 06, 2006
No More War
Today is the first day of a week off for Pat and me. The girls are with the relief houseparent, and we have the place to ourselves. We aren’t loafing, though, because we have a re-dedication of Harrold Cottage this coming Sunday and we’re sprucing up the place in preparation for the ceremony and open house that follows.
It is an awesome thing to be recognized in this capacity. I personally feel a bit bashful and very humbled. We certainly are not up to the task on our own, and recognize and realize that there is a Greater Hand in this than we know.
It will be fun to see some folks from Topeka who will make the trip down, and it will be good to see some of Pat’s relations as well. Our son and his family will be here, as will others from the Wichita area.
I think sometimes that is one reason why we are able to continue with this work. There are, as the Hebrew writer says in chapter 11, a “great cloud of witnesses” urging us on and giving us an example, that we should follow in it. That great cloud consists not only of those who are alive and well on the earth today, but folks from times long past and gone who have struggled, wrestled, fought, and won the battle. They cheer us (all of us) onward and upward as we continue the war in battles present and yet to come.
One day, however, the war will be over. There’ll be no more battles. There’ll be no more war. As the song says,
It is finished! The battle is over,
It is finished! There’ll be no more war.
It is finished! The end of the conflict,
It is finished, and Jesus is Lord!
"It Is Finished"
Written by William Gaither and Gloria Gaither
It is an awesome thing to be recognized in this capacity. I personally feel a bit bashful and very humbled. We certainly are not up to the task on our own, and recognize and realize that there is a Greater Hand in this than we know.
It will be fun to see some folks from Topeka who will make the trip down, and it will be good to see some of Pat’s relations as well. Our son and his family will be here, as will others from the Wichita area.
I think sometimes that is one reason why we are able to continue with this work. There are, as the Hebrew writer says in chapter 11, a “great cloud of witnesses” urging us on and giving us an example, that we should follow in it. That great cloud consists not only of those who are alive and well on the earth today, but folks from times long past and gone who have struggled, wrestled, fought, and won the battle. They cheer us (all of us) onward and upward as we continue the war in battles present and yet to come.
One day, however, the war will be over. There’ll be no more battles. There’ll be no more war. As the song says,
It is finished! The battle is over,
It is finished! There’ll be no more war.
It is finished! The end of the conflict,
It is finished, and Jesus is Lord!
"It Is Finished"
Written by William Gaither and Gloria Gaither
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Family
It is good to be a part of a family. Whether that family is biological or otherwise, one of the needs of every human is the need to belong. Families that function properly make sure that all who are a part of that family are assured of their acceptance.
I am fortunate to be part of several families. My biological family is, I think, a truly unusual family if for no other reason than we made a commitment long ago to get along and to look after one-another. We’ve done that well over the years, especially since our mother and father passed on. We’ve gotten together almost every year for the last 20 or more years, and have a good number of children, cousins, nieces, nephews, and in-laws who join us in these gatherings.
Pat and I are also part of a church family. We tried out one church when we moved to Wichita, liked it, and have stayed. We never looked beyond this one. It’s unique, and fills a real need in the lives of its family members.
One Sunday morning, the minister made an announcement regarding the health condition of one of his biological family. He asked the congregation for prayers and became emotional as he talked.
Out of the corner of my eye, I saw someone approach the stage area. The man went up on stage while the minister was talking, put his arm around the minister, and said something to the effect of, “We’re gonna pray right now.” He took over the microphone and led the entire congregation in prayer for the minister’s relative.
The man who did this was an Elder of the church and is himself battling cancer. But he put aside his own aches, pains, and troubles to reach out to someone who has made it his life’s work to reach out to others. I’m not sure there was a dry eye in the place when the Elder finished that prayer.
That’s what family is all about.
I am fortunate to be part of several families. My biological family is, I think, a truly unusual family if for no other reason than we made a commitment long ago to get along and to look after one-another. We’ve done that well over the years, especially since our mother and father passed on. We’ve gotten together almost every year for the last 20 or more years, and have a good number of children, cousins, nieces, nephews, and in-laws who join us in these gatherings.
Pat and I are also part of a church family. We tried out one church when we moved to Wichita, liked it, and have stayed. We never looked beyond this one. It’s unique, and fills a real need in the lives of its family members.
One Sunday morning, the minister made an announcement regarding the health condition of one of his biological family. He asked the congregation for prayers and became emotional as he talked.
Out of the corner of my eye, I saw someone approach the stage area. The man went up on stage while the minister was talking, put his arm around the minister, and said something to the effect of, “We’re gonna pray right now.” He took over the microphone and led the entire congregation in prayer for the minister’s relative.
The man who did this was an Elder of the church and is himself battling cancer. But he put aside his own aches, pains, and troubles to reach out to someone who has made it his life’s work to reach out to others. I’m not sure there was a dry eye in the place when the Elder finished that prayer.
That’s what family is all about.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
True Intelligence
I have always thought I was a reasonably intelligent individual. Graduated ninth in my class in high school, with honors, 3.86 overall college GPA, 4.00 in the core courses. I’ve held jobs that often required thought and work. I consider myself to be at least moderately well-read and knowledgeable.
However, there are several things that I just look at and shake my head, because I have no clue how or why and probably never will. One of those things is child abuse.
My wife and I are now in an occupation (houseparents) where the reality of child abuse (I don’t care if it’s physical, mental, emotional, or sexual…which includes all of the others) is before us every day. Children are starved, chained, neglected, used for sex, given drugs, traded, passed around, and drained of all semblance of humanity or dignity. This may not mean much to you, but when you see the effects every day and work with the effects every day and deal with the effects every day, it suddenly means a whole lot more.
The verse I am now thinking of suddenly means a whole lot more, too. Mark records in Mark 10:13-16, “And they were bringing children to Him so that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and said to them, “Permit the children to come to Me; do not hinder them; for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. “Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.” And He took them in His arms and began blessing them, laying His hands on them.”
Now, I don’t know about you, but I believe that children have a special place in the heart of our God and Savior Jesus Christ. And if you knew the way children were many times treated in those days, you would also know that Jesus made a powerful and compelling statement about His love for children and His desire that children be treated with dignity and respect.
I think I would rather stand before Jesus one day and answer to Him for just about anything OTHER than my mistreatment of a child. I have a feeling there will not be much in the way of mercy or compassion for those who abuse the little ones among us. I shudder at the thought that I may have, at some time, been guilty of some kind of improper action toward a child and thank God Almighty that the blood of Jesus Christ even covers these sins.
However, there are several things that I just look at and shake my head, because I have no clue how or why and probably never will. One of those things is child abuse.
My wife and I are now in an occupation (houseparents) where the reality of child abuse (I don’t care if it’s physical, mental, emotional, or sexual…which includes all of the others) is before us every day. Children are starved, chained, neglected, used for sex, given drugs, traded, passed around, and drained of all semblance of humanity or dignity. This may not mean much to you, but when you see the effects every day and work with the effects every day and deal with the effects every day, it suddenly means a whole lot more.
The verse I am now thinking of suddenly means a whole lot more, too. Mark records in Mark 10:13-16, “And they were bringing children to Him so that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and said to them, “Permit the children to come to Me; do not hinder them; for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. “Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.” And He took them in His arms and began blessing them, laying His hands on them.”
Now, I don’t know about you, but I believe that children have a special place in the heart of our God and Savior Jesus Christ. And if you knew the way children were many times treated in those days, you would also know that Jesus made a powerful and compelling statement about His love for children and His desire that children be treated with dignity and respect.
I think I would rather stand before Jesus one day and answer to Him for just about anything OTHER than my mistreatment of a child. I have a feeling there will not be much in the way of mercy or compassion for those who abuse the little ones among us. I shudder at the thought that I may have, at some time, been guilty of some kind of improper action toward a child and thank God Almighty that the blood of Jesus Christ even covers these sins.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
The Chill
“The Chill” has come. This morning, I was uncomfortable as I trundled the garbage containers out to the street. The trash man comes every Thursday about 9am, and as I took the containers out front for him to dump, I felt like I needed a jacket.
My understanding is that it will warm up in a day or two, so this chill won’t last long, but it won’t be long until a front blows through and the cold just hangs on for the rest of the winter. We then can look forward to the few Indian Summer-type days that are left in this fall, and later on the first warm days of spring.
Winters aren’t as much fun for me as they used to be. I dunno. When we were younger, we were much more invincible, and a fall on the ice or shoveling snow wasn’t such a big deal. Now, we have to be careful of falls (fractures, you know), and shoveling snow can mean heart conditions and more. Driving is also much less an adventure and much more of a thing to be endured. Somehow, maturity brings with it the knowledge that anything can happen out there, and every time we go out there and come back with nothing happening, we rejoice that we have once more conquered…something.
In any event, winter will be here whether we want it to come or not, and along with it the inevitable and sometimes interminable holidays, blahs, and claustrophobia. Welcome spring!!
My understanding is that it will warm up in a day or two, so this chill won’t last long, but it won’t be long until a front blows through and the cold just hangs on for the rest of the winter. We then can look forward to the few Indian Summer-type days that are left in this fall, and later on the first warm days of spring.
Winters aren’t as much fun for me as they used to be. I dunno. When we were younger, we were much more invincible, and a fall on the ice or shoveling snow wasn’t such a big deal. Now, we have to be careful of falls (fractures, you know), and shoveling snow can mean heart conditions and more. Driving is also much less an adventure and much more of a thing to be endured. Somehow, maturity brings with it the knowledge that anything can happen out there, and every time we go out there and come back with nothing happening, we rejoice that we have once more conquered…something.
In any event, winter will be here whether we want it to come or not, and along with it the inevitable and sometimes interminable holidays, blahs, and claustrophobia. Welcome spring!!
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Amazing Love
It never ceases to amaze me; the older I get the more fascinated I become. I’m talking of those couples that we all know who love one-another truly in sickness and in health. Those couples of whom one of the two develops some devastating, incurable illness (such as Alzheimer’s Disease) and the other faithfully and lovingly cares for the other, even though the healthy person, too, is even then grieving over the loss.
It happened at our church recently. And older couple—Bob and Enid—had been together for 61 years. Enid developed Alzheimer’s some time back. Bob himself is on the older side of life, and could not care for her himself. However, he brought her to church, had a care-giver for her, and provided for her as no one else could.
When we first came to church there, he introduced Enid to me as his lovely and wonderful wife, even though she probably didn’t have any idea where she was or what was going on. When the communion was passed, they made sure she was able to taste the bread and the wine. They sat together, along with Enid’s care-giver, and Bob was always watching out for her.
I don’t know Bob and Enid well, as we’ve just moved to the community. But in my experiences in health care, I’ve seen that same dedication and devotion to a spouse time after time. It’s enough to make a grown man cry, and I sometimes do.
Daily visits to the nursing home where one may be residing, bathing, grooming, visiting, taking on outings, and a myriad of other activities are undertaken by both as they are able. They sit, they visit, they hold hands, they kiss. And even though one of the two usually has some form of dementia, the fire of love is still there, traveling between them, continuing to burn—yet not consume.
I am reminded of God’s promise to us, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” Each time I see a couple in a situation like I’ve described, I’m again reminded that true love never, never, ever fails.
It happened at our church recently. And older couple—Bob and Enid—had been together for 61 years. Enid developed Alzheimer’s some time back. Bob himself is on the older side of life, and could not care for her himself. However, he brought her to church, had a care-giver for her, and provided for her as no one else could.
When we first came to church there, he introduced Enid to me as his lovely and wonderful wife, even though she probably didn’t have any idea where she was or what was going on. When the communion was passed, they made sure she was able to taste the bread and the wine. They sat together, along with Enid’s care-giver, and Bob was always watching out for her.
I don’t know Bob and Enid well, as we’ve just moved to the community. But in my experiences in health care, I’ve seen that same dedication and devotion to a spouse time after time. It’s enough to make a grown man cry, and I sometimes do.
Daily visits to the nursing home where one may be residing, bathing, grooming, visiting, taking on outings, and a myriad of other activities are undertaken by both as they are able. They sit, they visit, they hold hands, they kiss. And even though one of the two usually has some form of dementia, the fire of love is still there, traveling between them, continuing to burn—yet not consume.
I am reminded of God’s promise to us, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” Each time I see a couple in a situation like I’ve described, I’m again reminded that true love never, never, ever fails.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Just A Little Bit
I am offering the following, which came in an email. I don’t know who wrote this, or who the people are in the story. However, true or not, the story makes a valid and good point. I commend it to you.
Some years ago, I walked into my office after a Sunday morning service to find a sandwich bag on my desk containing three chocolate brownies. Some thoughtful and anonymous person who knew my love for chocolate had placed them there, along with a piece of paper that had a short story written on it. I immediately sat down and began eating the first brownie as I read the following story.
Two teenagers asked their father if they could go the theater to watch a movie that all their friends had seen. After reading some reviews about the movie on the internet, he denied their request. "Aw dad, why not?" they complained. "It's rated PG-13, and we're both older than thirteen!"
Dad replied: "Because that movie contains nudity and portrays immorality as being normal and acceptable behavior."
"But dad, those are just very small parts of the movie! That's what our friends who've seen it have told us. The movie is two hours long and those scenes are just a few minutes of the total film! It's based on a true story, and good triumphs over evil, and there are other redeeming themes like courage and self-sacrifice. Even the movie review websites say that!"
"My answer is 'no,' and that is my final answer. You are welcome to stay home tonight, invite some of your friends over, and watch one of the good videos we have in our home collection. But you will not go and watch that film. End of discussion."
The two teenagers walked dejectedly into the family room and slumped down on the couch. As they sulked, they were surprised to hear the sounds of their father preparing something in the kitchen. They soon recognized the wonderful aroma of brownies baking in the oven, and one of the teenagers said to the other, "Dad must be feeling guilty, and now he's going to try to make it up to us with some fresh brownies. Maybe we can soften him with lots of praise when he brings them out to us and persuade him to let us go to that movie after all."
About that time I began eating the second brownie from the sandwich bag and wondered if there was some connection to the brownies I was eating and the brownies in the story. I kept reading. The teens were not disappointed. Soon their father appeared with a plate of warm brownies, which he offered to his kids. They each took one. Then their father said, "Before you eat, I want to tell you something: I love you both so much." The teenagers smiled at each other with knowing glances. Dad was softening.
"That is why I've made these brownies with the very best ingredients. I've made them from scratch. Most of the ingredients are even organic - the best organic flour, the best free-range eggs, the best organic sugar, premium vanilla and chocolate." The brownies looked mouth-watering, and the teens began to become a little impatient with their dad's long speech.
"But I want to be perfectly honest with you. There is one ingredient I added that is not usually found in brownies. I got that ingredient from our own back yard. But you needn't worry, because I only added the tiniest bit of that ingredient to your brownies. The amount of the portion is practically insignificant. So go ahead, take a bite and let me know what you think."
Dad, would you mind telling us what that mystery ingredient is before we eat?"
"Why? The portion I added was so small, just a teaspoonful. You won't even taste it."
"Come on, dad; just tell us what that ingredient is."
"Don't worry! It is organic, just like the other ingredients."
"Dad!"
"Well, OK, if you insist. That secret ingredient is organic...dog poop."
I immediately stopped chewing that second brownie and I spit it out into the wastebasket by my desk. I continued reading, now fearful of the paragraphs that still remained.
Both teens instantly dropped their brownies back on the plate and began inspecting their fingers with horror. "DAD! Why did you do that? You've tortured us by making us smell those brownies cooking for the last half hour, and now you tell us that you added dog poop! We can't eat these brownies!"
"Why not? The amount of dog poop is very small compared to the rest of the ingredients. It won't hurt you It's been cooked right along with the other ingredients. You won't even taste it. It has the same consistency as the brownies. Go ahead and eat!"
"No, Dad...NEVER!"
"And that is the same reason I won't allow you to go watch that movie. You won't tolerate a little dog poop in your brownies, so why should you tolerate a little immorality in your movies? We pray that God will not lead us unto temptation, so how can we in good conscience entertain ourselves with something that will imprint a sinful image in our minds that will lead us into temptation long after we first see it?" I discarded what remained of the second brownie as well as the entire untouched third brownie. What had been irresistible a minute go had become detestable. And only because of the very slim chance that what I was eating was slightly polluted. (Surely it wasn't...but I couldn't convince myself.)
What a good lesson about purity! Why do we tolerate any sin, even in small amounts?
Some years ago, I walked into my office after a Sunday morning service to find a sandwich bag on my desk containing three chocolate brownies. Some thoughtful and anonymous person who knew my love for chocolate had placed them there, along with a piece of paper that had a short story written on it. I immediately sat down and began eating the first brownie as I read the following story.
Two teenagers asked their father if they could go the theater to watch a movie that all their friends had seen. After reading some reviews about the movie on the internet, he denied their request. "Aw dad, why not?" they complained. "It's rated PG-13, and we're both older than thirteen!"
Dad replied: "Because that movie contains nudity and portrays immorality as being normal and acceptable behavior."
"But dad, those are just very small parts of the movie! That's what our friends who've seen it have told us. The movie is two hours long and those scenes are just a few minutes of the total film! It's based on a true story, and good triumphs over evil, and there are other redeeming themes like courage and self-sacrifice. Even the movie review websites say that!"
"My answer is 'no,' and that is my final answer. You are welcome to stay home tonight, invite some of your friends over, and watch one of the good videos we have in our home collection. But you will not go and watch that film. End of discussion."
The two teenagers walked dejectedly into the family room and slumped down on the couch. As they sulked, they were surprised to hear the sounds of their father preparing something in the kitchen. They soon recognized the wonderful aroma of brownies baking in the oven, and one of the teenagers said to the other, "Dad must be feeling guilty, and now he's going to try to make it up to us with some fresh brownies. Maybe we can soften him with lots of praise when he brings them out to us and persuade him to let us go to that movie after all."
About that time I began eating the second brownie from the sandwich bag and wondered if there was some connection to the brownies I was eating and the brownies in the story. I kept reading. The teens were not disappointed. Soon their father appeared with a plate of warm brownies, which he offered to his kids. They each took one. Then their father said, "Before you eat, I want to tell you something: I love you both so much." The teenagers smiled at each other with knowing glances. Dad was softening.
"That is why I've made these brownies with the very best ingredients. I've made them from scratch. Most of the ingredients are even organic - the best organic flour, the best free-range eggs, the best organic sugar, premium vanilla and chocolate." The brownies looked mouth-watering, and the teens began to become a little impatient with their dad's long speech.
"But I want to be perfectly honest with you. There is one ingredient I added that is not usually found in brownies. I got that ingredient from our own back yard. But you needn't worry, because I only added the tiniest bit of that ingredient to your brownies. The amount of the portion is practically insignificant. So go ahead, take a bite and let me know what you think."
Dad, would you mind telling us what that mystery ingredient is before we eat?"
"Why? The portion I added was so small, just a teaspoonful. You won't even taste it."
"Come on, dad; just tell us what that ingredient is."
"Don't worry! It is organic, just like the other ingredients."
"Dad!"
"Well, OK, if you insist. That secret ingredient is organic...dog poop."
I immediately stopped chewing that second brownie and I spit it out into the wastebasket by my desk. I continued reading, now fearful of the paragraphs that still remained.
Both teens instantly dropped their brownies back on the plate and began inspecting their fingers with horror. "DAD! Why did you do that? You've tortured us by making us smell those brownies cooking for the last half hour, and now you tell us that you added dog poop! We can't eat these brownies!"
"Why not? The amount of dog poop is very small compared to the rest of the ingredients. It won't hurt you It's been cooked right along with the other ingredients. You won't even taste it. It has the same consistency as the brownies. Go ahead and eat!"
"No, Dad...NEVER!"
"And that is the same reason I won't allow you to go watch that movie. You won't tolerate a little dog poop in your brownies, so why should you tolerate a little immorality in your movies? We pray that God will not lead us unto temptation, so how can we in good conscience entertain ourselves with something that will imprint a sinful image in our minds that will lead us into temptation long after we first see it?" I discarded what remained of the second brownie as well as the entire untouched third brownie. What had been irresistible a minute go had become detestable. And only because of the very slim chance that what I was eating was slightly polluted. (Surely it wasn't...but I couldn't convince myself.)
What a good lesson about purity! Why do we tolerate any sin, even in small amounts?
Monday, September 18, 2006
Thank God
I’ve only seen it twice. A girl comes to our facility with her parents/friends/relatives and moves in to the cottage. After a get-acquainted period which includes some signing of forms, introductions, a tour of the place, and a conversation with the caregivers, it’s time for Mom/Dad/Sis/Aunt/Grandpa to go and leave the girl behind.
I’ll never probably get over it. There is reluctance to leave and a long good-by; there are hugs and tears. Burly dads tear up as easily as feminine moms. And it works on me…the knowledge that they are leaving their loved one in our charge…in the home of stranger...hopeful that we can work some kind of magic that was absent until now.
It’s a time for me to stop, too, and reflect on what I’m doing and why. It’s a time for me to be at once thankful that people care enough to make a place like this a reality and angry that there exists a need for a facility of this kind at all.
It happened again yesterday. Chari (not her real name) came to stay with us. For awhile. For an undetermined time. Until she’s able to put the past behind her and learns to cope with the onrushing future. It will happen again...and again.
As long as there needs to be a place like this, it will happen. Dad will tear up and Auntie will cry aloud. Mom will long for one more hug and Grandpa will once again be the strong one for the family, as he once was years ago.
Thank God for places like this. Thank God for grandpas. And thank God that one day we won't need a place like this anymore.
I’ll never probably get over it. There is reluctance to leave and a long good-by; there are hugs and tears. Burly dads tear up as easily as feminine moms. And it works on me…the knowledge that they are leaving their loved one in our charge…in the home of stranger...hopeful that we can work some kind of magic that was absent until now.
It’s a time for me to stop, too, and reflect on what I’m doing and why. It’s a time for me to be at once thankful that people care enough to make a place like this a reality and angry that there exists a need for a facility of this kind at all.
It happened again yesterday. Chari (not her real name) came to stay with us. For awhile. For an undetermined time. Until she’s able to put the past behind her and learns to cope with the onrushing future. It will happen again...and again.
As long as there needs to be a place like this, it will happen. Dad will tear up and Auntie will cry aloud. Mom will long for one more hug and Grandpa will once again be the strong one for the family, as he once was years ago.
Thank God for places like this. Thank God for grandpas. And thank God that one day we won't need a place like this anymore.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Giving Account
Well, I guess it had to happen sooner or later. I’m fighting a virus (cold) that I’m sure I picked up from one of the girls, who probably picked it up in school, etc. I haven’t had a good cold for several years, and a warm weather cold has been even more of a rarity for me lately.
They say it takes about a week to shake a cold if you treat it and seven days if you don’t. I prefer, however, to treat the symptoms, which tends to make things much more tolerable for me. Hence the trip to Dillons a few minutes ago to pick up some antihistamine, which will dovetail nicely with my Tylenol and Sudafed.
I wonder what people in the olden days did before they had Dimetapp, Coricidin, Robitussin, and all the rest. Can you imagine a cowboy on the prairie herding cattle and suffering from a cold…or worse yet, from allergies kicked up by the dust and pollen of the prairie? What about those who suffered from migraines, hay fever, and other maladies? And I won’t even go into hemorrhoids and those kinds of ailments.
The good, or even tolerable days were probably fewer and farther between in those days. The blessing was that many people didn’t live long enough to have a lot of bad days. Diabetes was always fatal. Strokes, heart attacks, cancers, etc., were a scourge. And even catching the flu was a serious matter, many times ending in death or at least a weakened condition.
We have much for which to thank our Creator. We also have much for which to give account one day.
They say it takes about a week to shake a cold if you treat it and seven days if you don’t. I prefer, however, to treat the symptoms, which tends to make things much more tolerable for me. Hence the trip to Dillons a few minutes ago to pick up some antihistamine, which will dovetail nicely with my Tylenol and Sudafed.
I wonder what people in the olden days did before they had Dimetapp, Coricidin, Robitussin, and all the rest. Can you imagine a cowboy on the prairie herding cattle and suffering from a cold…or worse yet, from allergies kicked up by the dust and pollen of the prairie? What about those who suffered from migraines, hay fever, and other maladies? And I won’t even go into hemorrhoids and those kinds of ailments.
The good, or even tolerable days were probably fewer and farther between in those days. The blessing was that many people didn’t live long enough to have a lot of bad days. Diabetes was always fatal. Strokes, heart attacks, cancers, etc., were a scourge. And even catching the flu was a serious matter, many times ending in death or at least a weakened condition.
We have much for which to thank our Creator. We also have much for which to give account one day.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
One Question Unasked
The roofers are here today. They’re putting a new roof on our home here on campus. Evidently sometime last spring, a hail storm came through and ruined many roofs in this part of Wichita. We’ve seen roofers busy in several parts of our neighborhood.
This week, they were on the campus. We have several buildings (9) and they all needed a new roof. I don’t know the name of the company, but like so many roofing companies these days, they’ve employed a crew of Hispanics to work the roofs.
There are upwards of 20 men on the roof most of the time. They don’t take long to strip off the old shingles, remove any leftover nails, lay down the felt paper and put on the new shingles. They can complete a large home in a day and not even work much past 5 o’clock.
Several of them banter and make jokes during the day. Several of them hum or sing some song. They all know what their job is, and work well together even though the scene looks chaotic at times.
I have to wonder about these men. I’m sure they are itinerant, moving from city to city as hail storms come and go. Where are they living while they are in Wichita? How do they receive good medical care, being always on the move? What about dental care? Where are their families? How long have they been doing this? Do they intend to do this until their health no longer permits? How much are they paid? Where do they do their laundry? Where do they use the bathroom during their work time? What do they do in their off time?
If you’ll look, you’ll see, though, that one question is not in the list. It’s perhaps the most important question of all. Do you know what it is? I’ll give you a hint. The word “Jesus” is in the question.
Now you know. Why wasn’t that the first question in my head? Why do I ask where they go to the bathroom rather than whether or not they know Jesus? I don’t know. I’m not sure I want to know.
This week, they were on the campus. We have several buildings (9) and they all needed a new roof. I don’t know the name of the company, but like so many roofing companies these days, they’ve employed a crew of Hispanics to work the roofs.
There are upwards of 20 men on the roof most of the time. They don’t take long to strip off the old shingles, remove any leftover nails, lay down the felt paper and put on the new shingles. They can complete a large home in a day and not even work much past 5 o’clock.
Several of them banter and make jokes during the day. Several of them hum or sing some song. They all know what their job is, and work well together even though the scene looks chaotic at times.
I have to wonder about these men. I’m sure they are itinerant, moving from city to city as hail storms come and go. Where are they living while they are in Wichita? How do they receive good medical care, being always on the move? What about dental care? Where are their families? How long have they been doing this? Do they intend to do this until their health no longer permits? How much are they paid? Where do they do their laundry? Where do they use the bathroom during their work time? What do they do in their off time?
If you’ll look, you’ll see, though, that one question is not in the list. It’s perhaps the most important question of all. Do you know what it is? I’ll give you a hint. The word “Jesus” is in the question.
Now you know. Why wasn’t that the first question in my head? Why do I ask where they go to the bathroom rather than whether or not they know Jesus? I don’t know. I’m not sure I want to know.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Just Things
I know it’s been a week since I’ve written. Those two or three of you that read my blog are, I’m sure, very disappointed in my lack of writing desire. However, I have an excuse this time.
We started our week off last Thursday afternoon. That evening, we went to Hays, Kansas to help our youngest son, his wife and our granddaughter move to Emporia. He found work there on campus of Emporia State and this was the weekend to make the big move.
Friday, we got the truck, loaded and drove to Emporia. Saturday, we unloaded the truck, took it back to the U haul place, and we started putting together a household. Sunday, we attended services at a local church, then worked some more that afternoon on the house. Sunday evening, we came back to Wichita.
Today (Monday), I spent a couple of hours in the dentist chair getting a crown prep on a molar. We also, since I do my dentistry in my hometown, went to a neighboring community and did some shopping in a men’s store that I liked when we lived in south-central Kansas.
The owner-operators were still there, noticeably older, but every bit as talkative as ever. I bought three pull-over shirts, ordered some Nike shoes (the inexpensive, non-flashy kind), and a sport coat. When I go back down on the 29th for my crown install, I’ll go back down there and fit the coat and pick up the shoes. What service. They’ve got the Wichita stores beat by miles in service and accommodation.
So it’s been a full time off for us. We still have some things to do before the girls come back to see us for three weeks this coming Thursday. I may not write for a few days, but again may write tomorrow. Who knows? Check back.
We started our week off last Thursday afternoon. That evening, we went to Hays, Kansas to help our youngest son, his wife and our granddaughter move to Emporia. He found work there on campus of Emporia State and this was the weekend to make the big move.
Friday, we got the truck, loaded and drove to Emporia. Saturday, we unloaded the truck, took it back to the U haul place, and we started putting together a household. Sunday, we attended services at a local church, then worked some more that afternoon on the house. Sunday evening, we came back to Wichita.
Today (Monday), I spent a couple of hours in the dentist chair getting a crown prep on a molar. We also, since I do my dentistry in my hometown, went to a neighboring community and did some shopping in a men’s store that I liked when we lived in south-central Kansas.
The owner-operators were still there, noticeably older, but every bit as talkative as ever. I bought three pull-over shirts, ordered some Nike shoes (the inexpensive, non-flashy kind), and a sport coat. When I go back down on the 29th for my crown install, I’ll go back down there and fit the coat and pick up the shoes. What service. They’ve got the Wichita stores beat by miles in service and accommodation.
So it’s been a full time off for us. We still have some things to do before the girls come back to see us for three weeks this coming Thursday. I may not write for a few days, but again may write tomorrow. Who knows? Check back.
Monday, September 04, 2006
Keeping Sane
I was just sure the world would come crashing down upon us this weekend as we’ve had the girls for a four-day holiday weekend. Friday, school was out for an inservice day (whatever that is) and Monday (today) is Labor Day. However, we’ve made it this far (Monday at 10:45am) without any major meltdowns or issues.
Now, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t any problems. The Plank Psychological Associates office is open and has been busy with a steady stream of “she said _____”, “it isn’t fair that _________”, and “nobody cares about (again, fill in the blank).”
But somehow, we manage to bump along from one hour to the next, getting chores done, getting in some exercise, and getting ready for school on Tuesday. It always amazes me when lights are out and things are quiet just HOW quiet things really are. I sort of wish I wasn’t so tired that I couldn’t enjoy the quiet at that time, but my eyelids are drooping then too, just as are those of the girls.
Here’s to Labor Day and four-day weekends at children’s homes…and the house parents that keep their sanity through it all.
Now, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t any problems. The Plank Psychological Associates office is open and has been busy with a steady stream of “she said _____”, “it isn’t fair that _________”, and “nobody cares about (again, fill in the blank).”
But somehow, we manage to bump along from one hour to the next, getting chores done, getting in some exercise, and getting ready for school on Tuesday. It always amazes me when lights are out and things are quiet just HOW quiet things really are. I sort of wish I wasn’t so tired that I couldn’t enjoy the quiet at that time, but my eyelids are drooping then too, just as are those of the girls.
Here’s to Labor Day and four-day weekends at children’s homes…and the house parents that keep their sanity through it all.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
It's Saturday Morning
It’s Saturday morning at Harrold Cottage, and I’m reminded of the old Bobby Russell song “Saturday Morning Confusion”. Yes, I know that my girls are older than the kids depicted in the song. But in many ways, it’s the same here as it is in the song. I already can’t wait until bed time and it’s only 9am.
Saturday Morning Confusion
- Artist: Bobby Russell
- peak Billboard position # 28 in 1971
- Words and Music by Bobby Russell*
Here they come, warmin' up
I hear the pitter-patter of little people on the livin' room rug
Whoa is me! There goes the TV
Now it's Popeye and Pluto, Batman and Bozo
Don't spill the corn flakes, they'll break at lunch break
Home from the office, why did I stop to have a beer with the boys?
Now my head's 'bout to pop
It's a Saturday morning confusion
If you think you can sleep, it's illusion
'cause you'll probably get a rude intrusion from Harry the dog
Harry the dog is as big as can be
'n' Harry the dog had puppies last week
We couldn't tell if it's a he or a she, now we know
It's a Saturday morning confusion
If I could just get to the bathroom
And get a cold rag and an aspirin to help how I feel
But here come the twins and they're screamin' at me
What is the deal to turn off the TV?
"Go ask your mother and quietly, your daddy is ill"
There he is-Cousin Jack
You got the leaf rake, too, keep at it till I get it all back
Hangin' round my yard, snoopin' in my garage
I tolerate 'im because he's my cousin
He's nice to the kids and Harry just loves him!
It's a Saturday morning confusion
And if I could just hide in my attic
So I couldn't hear my wife yellin' "Take 'em all to the show"
I'll take the whole neighborhood to the show
I'll just walk out in back where the money-tree grows
Grab me a handful and off to the show we'll go
It's a Saturday morning confusion
And if I could just get a transfusion
Or maybe go hide in the bedroom till five o'clock
Let it be known that at five the TV
Is gonna be tuned to the Game Of the Week
And that goes for dogs and twins and the whole family
It's a Saturday morning confusion
It's a Saturday morning confusion day is done
Cousin Jack, in his yard cooking steaks on a grill that I'll never get back
The twins in front of the TV, Harry with his fam'ly
Sis on her date and Mom at the door smiles as she surveys the sight
For the first time today, the kingdom is quiet
LORD, LET US THANK YOU FOR SATURDAYS
AND MAY THEY REMAIN OUR FRIENDS!!
'cause I work all week long
Be strong till they're grown
And next Saturday then, we'll do it again
a- Here they come, warmin' up
I hear the pitter-patter of little people on the livin' room rug
FADE
Whoa is me! There goes the TV
Saturday Morning Confusion
- Artist: Bobby Russell
- peak Billboard position # 28 in 1971
- Words and Music by Bobby Russell*
Here they come, warmin' up
I hear the pitter-patter of little people on the livin' room rug
Whoa is me! There goes the TV
Now it's Popeye and Pluto, Batman and Bozo
Don't spill the corn flakes, they'll break at lunch break
Home from the office, why did I stop to have a beer with the boys?
Now my head's 'bout to pop
It's a Saturday morning confusion
If you think you can sleep, it's illusion
'cause you'll probably get a rude intrusion from Harry the dog
Harry the dog is as big as can be
'n' Harry the dog had puppies last week
We couldn't tell if it's a he or a she, now we know
It's a Saturday morning confusion
If I could just get to the bathroom
And get a cold rag and an aspirin to help how I feel
But here come the twins and they're screamin' at me
What is the deal to turn off the TV?
"Go ask your mother and quietly, your daddy is ill"
There he is-Cousin Jack
You got the leaf rake, too, keep at it till I get it all back
Hangin' round my yard, snoopin' in my garage
I tolerate 'im because he's my cousin
He's nice to the kids and Harry just loves him!
It's a Saturday morning confusion
And if I could just hide in my attic
So I couldn't hear my wife yellin' "Take 'em all to the show"
I'll take the whole neighborhood to the show
I'll just walk out in back where the money-tree grows
Grab me a handful and off to the show we'll go
It's a Saturday morning confusion
And if I could just get a transfusion
Or maybe go hide in the bedroom till five o'clock
Let it be known that at five the TV
Is gonna be tuned to the Game Of the Week
And that goes for dogs and twins and the whole family
It's a Saturday morning confusion
It's a Saturday morning confusion day is done
Cousin Jack, in his yard cooking steaks on a grill that I'll never get back
The twins in front of the TV, Harry with his fam'ly
Sis on her date and Mom at the door smiles as she surveys the sight
For the first time today, the kingdom is quiet
LORD, LET US THANK YOU FOR SATURDAYS
AND MAY THEY REMAIN OUR FRIENDS!!
'cause I work all week long
Be strong till they're grown
And next Saturday then, we'll do it again
a- Here they come, warmin' up
I hear the pitter-patter of little people on the livin' room rug
FADE
Whoa is me! There goes the TV
Thursday, August 31, 2006
When Will We Grow Up?
I was noticing the clouds this morning as I sat out on the porch and the sun rose in the eastern sky. The wind was gently pushing puffy, cotton ball clouds generally to the south, and as they changed shape and the sun rose, the sky changed its appearance almost constantly.
I thought of God using the heavens as a canvas, having fun with His creation of clouds, wind, sun, and water. I thought about Him moving this cloud here…making that cloud come between the sun and another cloud…causing shadows and hues to fill the sky. I wonder if He thought about how many people were actually taking the time to watch Him paint the sky and bring forth a true miracle…the begetting of another day.
God indeed is faithful. He makes the sun to rise, the wind to blow, the sky to drop rain. And He does it all regardless of whether anyone in His creation is paying attention to His handiwork or not…whether anyone in His creation pauses to thank Him or not. He’s like the traffic cop that’s always on the beat or the ambulance attendant that is always at the ready. He’s like the electricity, natural gas, and water that we’ve come to just expect each time the furnace comes on, the light switch is flipped, or the tap is turned.
And we treat Him just as we treat those things. We’ve come to expect perfect days, just the right amount of rain, and temperatures not too hot or cold. Then we gripe when it isn’t just the way we want it. When will we ever grow up?
I thought of God using the heavens as a canvas, having fun with His creation of clouds, wind, sun, and water. I thought about Him moving this cloud here…making that cloud come between the sun and another cloud…causing shadows and hues to fill the sky. I wonder if He thought about how many people were actually taking the time to watch Him paint the sky and bring forth a true miracle…the begetting of another day.
God indeed is faithful. He makes the sun to rise, the wind to blow, the sky to drop rain. And He does it all regardless of whether anyone in His creation is paying attention to His handiwork or not…whether anyone in His creation pauses to thank Him or not. He’s like the traffic cop that’s always on the beat or the ambulance attendant that is always at the ready. He’s like the electricity, natural gas, and water that we’ve come to just expect each time the furnace comes on, the light switch is flipped, or the tap is turned.
And we treat Him just as we treat those things. We’ve come to expect perfect days, just the right amount of rain, and temperatures not too hot or cold. Then we gripe when it isn’t just the way we want it. When will we ever grow up?
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