Nobody asked me but...
I haven't posted anything here since late September. Not that I havent' had anything to say - because nothing could be further from the truth. I've even started several different post but alas, no completions. So, I guess I'll just throw a little mud on the wall.
"It's Complicated?"
I guess I'm overly simple. In my little brain the question "What is your marital status?" has only two possible answers - Single or Married. Looking, dating, engaged are all sub-sets of single. If you are separated you're still married (act accordingly). Divorced is an event - you're single. Facebook introduced me to a new "status" - "it's complicated." What the heck is that? I met an "it's complicated" person this year. Just want you to know - if you run across this blog - I'm praying for your marriage. God can simplify the complicated.
"The Poor"
(Religion and Politics)
If you've read my previous blog post you have an inkling of how I grew up and what shaped my philosophy on life. For me it's not "theory" but a way you live your life - both religion and politics).
I recently got sucked into a conversation (I knew better) that was going quite calmly then suddenly ended up with someone pointing a finger at me and saying "I don't like your attitude toward the poor." Wish I'd had some clever comeback but being me, human and fallible (not to mention egotistical) I responded angrily, "if I wanted what you have, I'd do what you do. If you want what I've got, than you can do what I've done." We stormed off in different directions. I'm glad now I didn't post the whole nine yards before I heard a talk on...
"Grace"
I attend Journey Community Church in La Mesa (and if you're in driving distance, you should too!) :) In a recent series titled, "HELLO, GOD" our teaching pastor Ed Noble invited John Lynch, the teaching pastor at Open Door Fellowship in Phoenix. I couldn't do his talk justice and won't try. I just know I'm grateful for His grace. That, of course, just reminded me of a song that has touched me in a similar manner:
Give Me Grace
(Andy Gullahorn)
Last time I was here
I swore that I would change
and said only a fool
would make the same mistakes.
Being the fool I am,
I’m back again.
I’ve got no good excuse.
I’m out of things to say.
I’m starting to believe
I’ll always be this way.
My only hope inside
is that you would hear my cry.
Give me grace for when I can’t stop falling.
Give me strength to help me get back up.
Give me faith without proof.
Give me wisdom and truth.
Give me You.
I know I’ve got a choice
but I don’t want to choose.
I’ve tried that before
and I know I stand to lose.
I can not control
these failings on my own.
Give me grace for when I can’t stop falling.
Give me strength to help me get back up.
Give me faith without proof.
Give me wisdom and truth.
Give me You.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Sunday, September 20, 2009
If you don't agree with me am I wrong?
Nobody asked me but…
I’m on the fringe watching conversations take place (you couldn’t do that – watch a conversation - before Al Gore invented the Internet!). Twitter and Facebook offer a lot of opportunity for expression and transparency – not always well thought out, however. Or, maybe that’s an unfair statement since I have more than 140 characters to try and make my point.
If you go back a few post you can get a little of my historical perspective. I certainly don’t wish to be taken out of context but I just find it bothersome that some people have such a narrow view that rather than asking “what did you mean by that?” or “Would you care to expand on that thought?” they simply strike – with words. In essence “you’re wrong and I’m right – end of story.”
Somewhere in “Christianity” – where, I don’t know – came a viewpoint that poor = good and rich = bad. Perhaps it was to make the destitute feel better about their financial position. Or, could it have been an effort to pick the pockets of the well off? I don’t know, I didn’t start the rumor. I’ve heard the bible misquoted to say that “Money is the root of all evil” although we all know that it actually says “The love of money is the root of all evil.” By the way, you can commit that sin without a dime in your pocket! I might also add that “rich” and “poor” seem to be moving targets – kind of like the word “fair.”
Is there a moral amount? What is it? It seems that the answer depends on who you’re talking to. One theme that seems to be consistent in the conversation is that it’s always a little higher than the income of the person you’re talking to. I find that interesting. If they make 40K that’s OK but those making 50K are pushing the limit. But, when you talk to someone making 50K, their sure to admonish you to watch out for those making 60K. It’s really hard to keep a spiritual head on your shoulders when you’re rolling in that kind of dough.
You the reader may be – probably are – more well read than I but I’ve never found anywhere in my bible a permissible number of pesos, rupees, yen, won, baht or dollars that makes me more or less acceptable to Christ. I do, however, find many principles regarding how to handle money in my bible. I’ve also found – as have many – that when I follow the principles outlined in that book life goes better than when I do it my way.
As a child I’ve been homeless for brief periods, hungry frequently and always broke (I consider “broke” a financial condition and “poor” an attitude). Growing up in this condition and in church, while the prayers and hugs and conversation were appreciated the only reason I’m able to sit and type out this note is the invitations to lunch and dinner. Those invitations came from folks who were better off financially than our household. (And, I assure you, were the physical answer to a hungry child’s prayer!) Perhaps this would be a good time to say “thank-you” to those families in Collegedale, TN. Of particular note and at the risk of leaving some out, there were the Myers, Watsons, Gerharts and Shultz’ families. (None of whom I have had contact in nearly forty years)
Those were some learning years (4th – 8th grades). In retrospect I note that I was often in their homes but they were seldom (if ever) in mine. Could it be that they were gracious enough to include me in their family events – swimming/skiing at Lake Harrison, camping, etc so I could learn things that would help me to be successful as an adult? And, perhaps they didn’t want their kids learning from me? Likewise in Denver, CO. I would never have survived my two years of high school without the similar benefits bestowed by the Olson’s and Ordelheide’s.
As an adult, when I’m doing it His way, I’ve been blessed tremendously (see my post “Giving Dangerously”). From that blessing we’ve been able to do crazy things anonymously. We’ve paid a family’s electric bills, donated room air conditioners to a heat stressed family, given more food gift cards than I remember. I like to think that maybe God has used us to be the answer to someone’s prayer the way He used others to answer mine. I do know, however, that you can’t give away something you don’t have (unless you’re congress).
With all that said, here is the quote that started the fire storm “broke people can’t help poor and hurting people.” - Dave Ramsey. Surrounding this quote was a story that added a lot of context (that would have required a lot more than 140 characters). Personally, I found the quote impactful and not designed to offend but more to inspire the people who were listening. The audience was a very large group of people who strongly desired to learn how to handle money God’s way. Might I suggest that the quote is true particularly in this regard? You may consider yourself broke by the standard against which you measure yourself but to the homeless man you take to lunch you might as well be Bill Gates.
In closing (been running my mouth and fingers way to long), God requires 100% of my prayers (...no other gods before me, pray without ceasing). He requires 10% of my resources (Not because he needs the money but because he wants my obedience. It's ALL His anyway.) What I do with the rest of it is up to me. If I spend it by Master Card's or Visa's plan I have 9% - 30% less resources to provide for my family or to be available to answer His call. Hmmm...
Nobody asked me, but…
John Godfrey Saxe may have had a pretty good handle on this when penned:
“The Blind Men And The Elephant”
It was six men of Indostan
To learning much inclined,
Who went to see the Elephant
(Though all of them were blind),
That each by observation
Might satisfy his mind.
The First approach'd the Elephant,
And happening to fall
Against his broad and sturdy side,
At once began to bawl:
"God bless me! but the Elephant
Is very like a wall!"
The Second, feeling of the tusk,
Cried, -"Ho! what have we here
So very round and smooth and sharp?
To me 'tis mighty clear
This wonder of an Elephant
Is very like a spear!"
The Third approached the animal,
And happening to take
The squirming trunk within his hands,
Thus boldly up and spake:
"I see," quoth he, "the Elephant
Is very like a snake!"
The Fourth reached out his eager hand,
And felt about the knee.
"What most this wondrous beast is like
Is mighty plain," quoth he,
"'Tis clear enough the Elephant
Is very like a tree!"
The Fifth, who chanced to touch the ear,
Said: "E'en the blindest man
Can tell what this resembles most;
Deny the fact who can,
This marvel of an Elephant
Is very like a fan!"
The Sixth no sooner had begun
About the beast to grope,
Then, seizing on the swinging tail
That fell within his scope,
"I see," quoth he, "the Elephant
Is very like a rope!"
And so these men of Indostan
Disputed loud and long,
Each in his own opinion
Exceeding stiff and strong,
Though each was partly in the right,
And all were in the wrong!
MORAL.
So oft in theologic wars,
The disputants, I ween,
Rail on in utter ignorance
Of what each other mean,
And prate about an Elephant
Not one of them has seen!
I’m on the fringe watching conversations take place (you couldn’t do that – watch a conversation - before Al Gore invented the Internet!). Twitter and Facebook offer a lot of opportunity for expression and transparency – not always well thought out, however. Or, maybe that’s an unfair statement since I have more than 140 characters to try and make my point.
If you go back a few post you can get a little of my historical perspective. I certainly don’t wish to be taken out of context but I just find it bothersome that some people have such a narrow view that rather than asking “what did you mean by that?” or “Would you care to expand on that thought?” they simply strike – with words. In essence “you’re wrong and I’m right – end of story.”
Somewhere in “Christianity” – where, I don’t know – came a viewpoint that poor = good and rich = bad. Perhaps it was to make the destitute feel better about their financial position. Or, could it have been an effort to pick the pockets of the well off? I don’t know, I didn’t start the rumor. I’ve heard the bible misquoted to say that “Money is the root of all evil” although we all know that it actually says “The love of money is the root of all evil.” By the way, you can commit that sin without a dime in your pocket! I might also add that “rich” and “poor” seem to be moving targets – kind of like the word “fair.”
Is there a moral amount? What is it? It seems that the answer depends on who you’re talking to. One theme that seems to be consistent in the conversation is that it’s always a little higher than the income of the person you’re talking to. I find that interesting. If they make 40K that’s OK but those making 50K are pushing the limit. But, when you talk to someone making 50K, their sure to admonish you to watch out for those making 60K. It’s really hard to keep a spiritual head on your shoulders when you’re rolling in that kind of dough.
You the reader may be – probably are – more well read than I but I’ve never found anywhere in my bible a permissible number of pesos, rupees, yen, won, baht or dollars that makes me more or less acceptable to Christ. I do, however, find many principles regarding how to handle money in my bible. I’ve also found – as have many – that when I follow the principles outlined in that book life goes better than when I do it my way.
As a child I’ve been homeless for brief periods, hungry frequently and always broke (I consider “broke” a financial condition and “poor” an attitude). Growing up in this condition and in church, while the prayers and hugs and conversation were appreciated the only reason I’m able to sit and type out this note is the invitations to lunch and dinner. Those invitations came from folks who were better off financially than our household. (And, I assure you, were the physical answer to a hungry child’s prayer!) Perhaps this would be a good time to say “thank-you” to those families in Collegedale, TN. Of particular note and at the risk of leaving some out, there were the Myers, Watsons, Gerharts and Shultz’ families. (None of whom I have had contact in nearly forty years)
Those were some learning years (4th – 8th grades). In retrospect I note that I was often in their homes but they were seldom (if ever) in mine. Could it be that they were gracious enough to include me in their family events – swimming/skiing at Lake Harrison, camping, etc so I could learn things that would help me to be successful as an adult? And, perhaps they didn’t want their kids learning from me? Likewise in Denver, CO. I would never have survived my two years of high school without the similar benefits bestowed by the Olson’s and Ordelheide’s.
As an adult, when I’m doing it His way, I’ve been blessed tremendously (see my post “Giving Dangerously”). From that blessing we’ve been able to do crazy things anonymously. We’ve paid a family’s electric bills, donated room air conditioners to a heat stressed family, given more food gift cards than I remember. I like to think that maybe God has used us to be the answer to someone’s prayer the way He used others to answer mine. I do know, however, that you can’t give away something you don’t have (unless you’re congress).
With all that said, here is the quote that started the fire storm “broke people can’t help poor and hurting people.” - Dave Ramsey. Surrounding this quote was a story that added a lot of context (that would have required a lot more than 140 characters). Personally, I found the quote impactful and not designed to offend but more to inspire the people who were listening. The audience was a very large group of people who strongly desired to learn how to handle money God’s way. Might I suggest that the quote is true particularly in this regard? You may consider yourself broke by the standard against which you measure yourself but to the homeless man you take to lunch you might as well be Bill Gates.
In closing (been running my mouth and fingers way to long), God requires 100% of my prayers (...no other gods before me, pray without ceasing). He requires 10% of my resources (Not because he needs the money but because he wants my obedience. It's ALL His anyway.) What I do with the rest of it is up to me. If I spend it by Master Card's or Visa's plan I have 9% - 30% less resources to provide for my family or to be available to answer His call. Hmmm...
Nobody asked me, but…
John Godfrey Saxe may have had a pretty good handle on this when penned:
“The Blind Men And The Elephant”
It was six men of Indostan
To learning much inclined,
Who went to see the Elephant
(Though all of them were blind),
That each by observation
Might satisfy his mind.
The First approach'd the Elephant,
And happening to fall
Against his broad and sturdy side,
At once began to bawl:
"God bless me! but the Elephant
Is very like a wall!"
The Second, feeling of the tusk,
Cried, -"Ho! what have we here
So very round and smooth and sharp?
To me 'tis mighty clear
This wonder of an Elephant
Is very like a spear!"
The Third approached the animal,
And happening to take
The squirming trunk within his hands,
Thus boldly up and spake:
"I see," quoth he, "the Elephant
Is very like a snake!"
The Fourth reached out his eager hand,
And felt about the knee.
"What most this wondrous beast is like
Is mighty plain," quoth he,
"'Tis clear enough the Elephant
Is very like a tree!"
The Fifth, who chanced to touch the ear,
Said: "E'en the blindest man
Can tell what this resembles most;
Deny the fact who can,
This marvel of an Elephant
Is very like a fan!"
The Sixth no sooner had begun
About the beast to grope,
Then, seizing on the swinging tail
That fell within his scope,
"I see," quoth he, "the Elephant
Is very like a rope!"
And so these men of Indostan
Disputed loud and long,
Each in his own opinion
Exceeding stiff and strong,
Though each was partly in the right,
And all were in the wrong!
MORAL.
So oft in theologic wars,
The disputants, I ween,
Rail on in utter ignorance
Of what each other mean,
And prate about an Elephant
Not one of them has seen!
Monday, September 7, 2009
The Return On a Twenty-five Cent Investment
On March 5, 1976, about 4:30 AM my fiance (now bride of 33 years) picked me up from my basement appartment and gave me a ride to my recruiters office in Boulder, CO. As the snow fell, we kissed the first of many navy induced goodbyes. She returned to Longmont and this two time high school dropout headed to Denver with his recruiter to be sworn in.
There was no Harvard or Yale in my future. But, the navy was offering something that no other employer was offering me at the time - opportunity. By the time 1983 rolled around I was visably excelling in my chosen career. I had been promoted to to Pettty Officer First Class (E-6) for a couple of years and was headed for shore duty as an instructor of basic electricity and electronics.
In 1984 or 1985 I was car pooling to work (NTC San Diego) with Bob Sholes. Now Bob was a pretty sharp guy and had decided to start taking some college classes. Being frugal with his money he had searched for and found a used book store where he could get a text book he needed. We stopped there on the way home and he bought his text book. On the way out of the store I spotted a paperback in a stack of books laying with its binder title upside down.
I'm not sure what drew me to it although I had heard of the title before. It was not marked so I asked the store owner "how much?"
"Twenty-Five cents" he replied.
I reached in my pocket and experienced one of life's embarassing moments... "Bob, I'm broke. Can I borrow a quarter?"
For twenty-five cents I bought the second edition of "The Incredible Bread Machine." I've never seen the first edition and it's nothing like the third edition. I got home, sat down on the couch and began reading. It was incredible. I couldn't put it down. It made so much sense. It was historical, factual, well researched and footnoted. It should be required reading for history, civics, American Goverment. Middle schoolers can understand it, high school and college students could do countless studies and papers on it. However, it is over the heads of most congressional seat holders in both the house and senate.
I've long been an advocate for smaller and less intrusive government. I taught my sons that the first place to look for a helping hand is at the end of your own arm. To have a friend you must first be a friend. Cliche' but true.
Unless you just stumbled on to this page you know that after retiring from the navy I became self-employed. Our business has been blessed for nearly ten that we have worked out of our home. This past Friday I signed a multi-year lease on 1800 sqft of office/warehouse space. My hope is that even in this present, government induced down turn in the economy that my business will continue to grow and that I will be able to hire on some technical support thus improving someone else's personal economy.
If you read my previous post you'll understand that I believe people vote daily with their hard earned dollars to keep you in business or put you out of business. It's called the free market and is driven good or poor business practices - not political boycotts or government regulations. "The Incredible Bread Machine" did an incredible job of expanding my mind. I wish I could post it in its entirety but since I can't, I will post the poem with which the book ended.
Nobody Asked Me, but... America's best days are yet to come!
The Incredible Bread Machine
By R.W. Grant
This is the story of a man whose name
Was a household word: a man whose fame
Burst on the world like an atom bomb;
Smith was his last name; first name Tom.
Now, Smith, an inventor, had specialized
In toys, so people were surprised,
When they found that he instead
Of making toys, was BAKING BREAD!
The way to make bread he'd conceived
Cost less than people could believe!
And not just make it! This device,
Could in addition, wrap and slice!
The price per loaf, one loaf or many,
The miniscule sum of under a penny!
Can you imagine what this meant?
Can you comprehend the consequent?
The first time yet the world well fed,
And all because of Tom Smith's bread.
A citation from the President,
For Smith's amazing bread,
This and other honours too,
Were heaped upon his head!
But isn't it a wonderous thing,
How quickly fame is flown?
Smith, the hero of today,
Tommorow, scarcely known!
Yes, the fickle years passed by,
Smith was a millionaire,
But Smith himself was now forgot,
Though bread was everywhere...
People, asked from where it came,
Would very seldom know.
They would simple eat and ask,
"Was not it always so?"
However, Smith cared not a bit,
For millions ate his bread...
And everything is fine, thought he,
I am rich, and they are fed!
Everything was fine, he though,
He reckoned not with fate.
Note the sequence of events,
Starting on the date,
On which the business tax went up.
Then, to a slight extent,
The price on every loaf rose too:
Up to one full cent!
"What's going on!" the public cried,
"He's guilty of pure plunder!
He has no right to get so rich
on other peoples hunger!"
(A Prize cartoon depicted Smith,
With fat and drooping jowls,
Snatching bread from hungry babes,
indiferrent to their howls!)
Well, since the public does come first,
It could not be denied
That in matters such as this,
The Public must decide!
So Anti-Trust now took a hand,
Of course, it was appalled
At what it found was going on.
The "Bread Trust" it was called.
Now this was getting serious,
So Smith felt that he must
Have a friendly interview
With the men in Anti-Trust.
So hat in hand, he went to them.
They'd surely been misled;
No Rule of Law had he defied.
But then their lawyer said:
"The Rule of Law, in complex times,
Has proved itself deficient.
We much prefer the Rule of Men,
It's vastly more efficient!
Now let me state the present rules,"
The lawyer then went on,
"These very simple guidelines,
You can rely upon:
You're gouging on your prices if
You charge more than the rest.
But it's unfair competition if
You think you can charge less!
"A second point that we would make
To help avoid confusion...
Don't try to charge the same amount,
That would be Collusion!
You must compete. But not too much,
For if you do you see,
Then the market would be yours -
And that's Monopoly!
Price too high?
Or Price too low?
Now, which charge did they make?
Well, they weren't loath to charging both,
With Public Good at stake!
In fact, they went one better!
They charged "Monopoly!"
No muss, no fuss, oh, woe is us!
Egad, they charged ALL THREE!
"Five Years in jail," The Judge then said
"You're lucky it's not worse!
Robber Barrons must be taught,
Society comes first!"
Now bread is baked by government.
And as might be expected,
Everything is well controlled.
The Public well protected.
True, loaves cost a dollar each,
But our leaders do their best!
The selling price is half a cent..
Taxes pay the rest.
There was no Harvard or Yale in my future. But, the navy was offering something that no other employer was offering me at the time - opportunity. By the time 1983 rolled around I was visably excelling in my chosen career. I had been promoted to to Pettty Officer First Class (E-6) for a couple of years and was headed for shore duty as an instructor of basic electricity and electronics.
In 1984 or 1985 I was car pooling to work (NTC San Diego) with Bob Sholes. Now Bob was a pretty sharp guy and had decided to start taking some college classes. Being frugal with his money he had searched for and found a used book store where he could get a text book he needed. We stopped there on the way home and he bought his text book. On the way out of the store I spotted a paperback in a stack of books laying with its binder title upside down.
I'm not sure what drew me to it although I had heard of the title before. It was not marked so I asked the store owner "how much?"
"Twenty-Five cents" he replied.
I reached in my pocket and experienced one of life's embarassing moments... "Bob, I'm broke. Can I borrow a quarter?"
For twenty-five cents I bought the second edition of "The Incredible Bread Machine." I've never seen the first edition and it's nothing like the third edition. I got home, sat down on the couch and began reading. It was incredible. I couldn't put it down. It made so much sense. It was historical, factual, well researched and footnoted. It should be required reading for history, civics, American Goverment. Middle schoolers can understand it, high school and college students could do countless studies and papers on it. However, it is over the heads of most congressional seat holders in both the house and senate.
I've long been an advocate for smaller and less intrusive government. I taught my sons that the first place to look for a helping hand is at the end of your own arm. To have a friend you must first be a friend. Cliche' but true.
Unless you just stumbled on to this page you know that after retiring from the navy I became self-employed. Our business has been blessed for nearly ten that we have worked out of our home. This past Friday I signed a multi-year lease on 1800 sqft of office/warehouse space. My hope is that even in this present, government induced down turn in the economy that my business will continue to grow and that I will be able to hire on some technical support thus improving someone else's personal economy.
If you read my previous post you'll understand that I believe people vote daily with their hard earned dollars to keep you in business or put you out of business. It's called the free market and is driven good or poor business practices - not political boycotts or government regulations. "The Incredible Bread Machine" did an incredible job of expanding my mind. I wish I could post it in its entirety but since I can't, I will post the poem with which the book ended.
Nobody Asked Me, but... America's best days are yet to come!
The Incredible Bread Machine
By R.W. Grant
This is the story of a man whose name
Was a household word: a man whose fame
Burst on the world like an atom bomb;
Smith was his last name; first name Tom.
Now, Smith, an inventor, had specialized
In toys, so people were surprised,
When they found that he instead
Of making toys, was BAKING BREAD!
The way to make bread he'd conceived
Cost less than people could believe!
And not just make it! This device,
Could in addition, wrap and slice!
The price per loaf, one loaf or many,
The miniscule sum of under a penny!
Can you imagine what this meant?
Can you comprehend the consequent?
The first time yet the world well fed,
And all because of Tom Smith's bread.
A citation from the President,
For Smith's amazing bread,
This and other honours too,
Were heaped upon his head!
But isn't it a wonderous thing,
How quickly fame is flown?
Smith, the hero of today,
Tommorow, scarcely known!
Yes, the fickle years passed by,
Smith was a millionaire,
But Smith himself was now forgot,
Though bread was everywhere...
People, asked from where it came,
Would very seldom know.
They would simple eat and ask,
"Was not it always so?"
However, Smith cared not a bit,
For millions ate his bread...
And everything is fine, thought he,
I am rich, and they are fed!
Everything was fine, he though,
He reckoned not with fate.
Note the sequence of events,
Starting on the date,
On which the business tax went up.
Then, to a slight extent,
The price on every loaf rose too:
Up to one full cent!
"What's going on!" the public cried,
"He's guilty of pure plunder!
He has no right to get so rich
on other peoples hunger!"
(A Prize cartoon depicted Smith,
With fat and drooping jowls,
Snatching bread from hungry babes,
indiferrent to their howls!)
Well, since the public does come first,
It could not be denied
That in matters such as this,
The Public must decide!
So Anti-Trust now took a hand,
Of course, it was appalled
At what it found was going on.
The "Bread Trust" it was called.
Now this was getting serious,
So Smith felt that he must
Have a friendly interview
With the men in Anti-Trust.
So hat in hand, he went to them.
They'd surely been misled;
No Rule of Law had he defied.
But then their lawyer said:
"The Rule of Law, in complex times,
Has proved itself deficient.
We much prefer the Rule of Men,
It's vastly more efficient!
Now let me state the present rules,"
The lawyer then went on,
"These very simple guidelines,
You can rely upon:
You're gouging on your prices if
You charge more than the rest.
But it's unfair competition if
You think you can charge less!
"A second point that we would make
To help avoid confusion...
Don't try to charge the same amount,
That would be Collusion!
You must compete. But not too much,
For if you do you see,
Then the market would be yours -
And that's Monopoly!
Price too high?
Or Price too low?
Now, which charge did they make?
Well, they weren't loath to charging both,
With Public Good at stake!
In fact, they went one better!
They charged "Monopoly!"
No muss, no fuss, oh, woe is us!
Egad, they charged ALL THREE!
"Five Years in jail," The Judge then said
"You're lucky it's not worse!
Robber Barrons must be taught,
Society comes first!"
Now bread is baked by government.
And as might be expected,
Everything is well controlled.
The Public well protected.
True, loaves cost a dollar each,
But our leaders do their best!
The selling price is half a cent..
Taxes pay the rest.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Another "F" Bomb
Nobody asked me, but… “It’s not FAIR.”
If you’re a parent of more than one child you’ve heard it before. And, the greater the age difference the more often you probably hear it. There is nearly seven years between my sister and I and as a youngster I said it often. As I recall, when those words were uttered by myself or my boys, it was the result of somehow feeling that I was cheated out of something I “deserved.”
Who decides what’s fair? Again, if you’re a parent and it’s your children, you get to umpire that decision. They’re usually pretty tough ones too. Like:
· Why does she get to stay up past 7:30 PM? It’s not FAIR!
· Why can’t I have a TV in my room? It’s not FAIR!
· Why can’t I have a car? My friends do. It’s not FAIR!
· Why do I have to be home by 10:00 PM? It’s not FAIR!
· I studied my butt off and got a “C.” Jim/Sally didn’t study at all, partied before mid-terms and got an “A.” It’s not FAIR!
The list goes on and I know you get the picture. As parents we understand common rights that are the same for all of our children regardless of the circumstances. We love them unconditionally. We provide for their basic needs (see Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs). We also are able to discern that at different ages our children have different maturity levels and abilities. Therefore, we bestow on them appropriate privileges. And, Jim or Sally probably have different aptitudes for the given subject material. Besides, “who said life was FAIR?”
As parents we have dictatorial powers to ensure compliance to standards. We give and take privileges as warranted by maturity or performance. I don’t ever recall winning or giving into an “it’s not FAIR” argument. Why then, is fairness even a point in the conversation in national issues?
Is it FAIR that Bill Gates lives in a mansion while a Viet Nam Vet lives under a bridge? Now I’m not in favor of people living under bridges and I’ve lived in a car before but fairness has nothing to do with it. You see, fairness is an opportunity issue not an outcome issue. Our “Declaration of Independence” declares that we are endowed by our creator “with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” Nobody said we’d catch it. The real issue is that nobody can get in the way of our pursuit.
Nobody asked me, but… hears a quick lesson on money.
Money is neither good nor bad. Money is simply a measure of service to others. Left to our own decision making and without outside interference we trade our hard earned dollars for someone else’s product of service. Those who provide the greatest products and services to the most people receive the most in this unit of measure – money. If you provide a poor product or service people vote you out of business by not paying you. This obviously does not apply to government services such as the US Post Office.
The preceding paragraph serves to say that Bill Gates has provided a product that, even though we may complain about it at times we still buy it. There are other operating systems on the market. Our homeless Vet, for any variety of reasons, has not provided a product or service that anyone wants to trade their money for – unless you consider sympathy a commodity. Having said that, please note that I financially support organizations that support veterans. I am a veteran and, “there, but for the grace of God go I.”
My point is simply that no matter how distasteful a situation might be FAIRNESS should never enter into examining the outcome. FAIRNESS need only be examined in terms of did any person or organization stand in the way of the pursuit.
If you’re a parent of more than one child you’ve heard it before. And, the greater the age difference the more often you probably hear it. There is nearly seven years between my sister and I and as a youngster I said it often. As I recall, when those words were uttered by myself or my boys, it was the result of somehow feeling that I was cheated out of something I “deserved.”
Who decides what’s fair? Again, if you’re a parent and it’s your children, you get to umpire that decision. They’re usually pretty tough ones too. Like:
· Why does she get to stay up past 7:30 PM? It’s not FAIR!
· Why can’t I have a TV in my room? It’s not FAIR!
· Why can’t I have a car? My friends do. It’s not FAIR!
· Why do I have to be home by 10:00 PM? It’s not FAIR!
· I studied my butt off and got a “C.” Jim/Sally didn’t study at all, partied before mid-terms and got an “A.” It’s not FAIR!
The list goes on and I know you get the picture. As parents we understand common rights that are the same for all of our children regardless of the circumstances. We love them unconditionally. We provide for their basic needs (see Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs). We also are able to discern that at different ages our children have different maturity levels and abilities. Therefore, we bestow on them appropriate privileges. And, Jim or Sally probably have different aptitudes for the given subject material. Besides, “who said life was FAIR?”
As parents we have dictatorial powers to ensure compliance to standards. We give and take privileges as warranted by maturity or performance. I don’t ever recall winning or giving into an “it’s not FAIR” argument. Why then, is fairness even a point in the conversation in national issues?
Is it FAIR that Bill Gates lives in a mansion while a Viet Nam Vet lives under a bridge? Now I’m not in favor of people living under bridges and I’ve lived in a car before but fairness has nothing to do with it. You see, fairness is an opportunity issue not an outcome issue. Our “Declaration of Independence” declares that we are endowed by our creator “with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” Nobody said we’d catch it. The real issue is that nobody can get in the way of our pursuit.
Nobody asked me, but… hears a quick lesson on money.
Money is neither good nor bad. Money is simply a measure of service to others. Left to our own decision making and without outside interference we trade our hard earned dollars for someone else’s product of service. Those who provide the greatest products and services to the most people receive the most in this unit of measure – money. If you provide a poor product or service people vote you out of business by not paying you. This obviously does not apply to government services such as the US Post Office.
The preceding paragraph serves to say that Bill Gates has provided a product that, even though we may complain about it at times we still buy it. There are other operating systems on the market. Our homeless Vet, for any variety of reasons, has not provided a product or service that anyone wants to trade their money for – unless you consider sympathy a commodity. Having said that, please note that I financially support organizations that support veterans. I am a veteran and, “there, but for the grace of God go I.”
My point is simply that no matter how distasteful a situation might be FAIRNESS should never enter into examining the outcome. FAIRNESS need only be examined in terms of did any person or organization stand in the way of the pursuit.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Before My Head Explodes
Not being an "activist" doesn't mean not having an opinion. And, those closest to me know I do have several. :)
Some years ago, when sharing an opinion on consequences of drug abuse in the navy Keith Goosby told me "where you sit determines where you stand." I've thought about that a lot over the years and as a result I try to add context to my opinions.
Here's context (the short version)... I grew up in a single parent home. My parents divorced prior to my birth and my mother never did remarry. We moved a lot (not sure what we were running to or from) and her income potential was limited at best. On more than one occasion we lived in our car while she looked for a job, first paycheck and a place to live. I know hunger from a child's perspective which is why when our youngest son was once sent to bed without his supper I snuck him food to his bedroom! (Even today if the fridge and pantry aren't full of food it takes me to a bad place.)
I left home at sixteen and joined the navy at eighteen for a career that spanned over twenty-two years. Nearly ten years ago I started a business out of pocket and on a part time basis. With the support of my bride we've invested more time than anyone can imagine and it's paid off quite nicely.
All that to say this. I've had a belly full of people who find some moral superiority in espousing opinions that somehow the weak can be made whole by crippling the strong. That somehow they have the moral high ground by in the mistaken belief that it's OK to take the fruits of ones labor and give it to someone who has not earned it. It's so easy writing checks from someone else's checkbook.
Now, before you dismiss me as some uncaring and selfish son-of-a-gun let's dig a little deeper. Remember, where you sit determines where you stand.
First, let's do a little comparison. Vice President Joe Biden's tax return for 2008 is posted on the Internet - look it up. His adjusted gross income (AGI) was over $269,000. His charitable contributions totaled $1,885 or .7% of his adjusted income. In a moment of transparency I'll share that his AGI is about three times our family AGI and yet as an conservative individual I believe that charitable giving is basic for health on many levels. I do admit a certain selfishness involved. See, we get good feeling when we give to help others. Over 20% of our AGI goes to support things like our church, World Vision, the Christopher Collins Foundation, T.E.A.C.H., Shriner's, AMVETS, etc.
I'm incensed the the leader of the free world held a conference call with nationally known religious leaders to suggest that Christians are morally wrong if they don't support his health care agenda and conveniently takes up the "I am my brothers keeper" mantra. I'm here to tell you that you are NOT absolved of being your brothers keeper by supporting higher taxes on the rich (however they are defined this week). You are NOT absolved of being your brothers keeper by supporting any government program, no matter how pure the intention. You are your brothers keeper on a personal and an individual level - dig deep. Justice, social or otherwise, is not achieve by being unjust to another.
In deference to "Nobody Asked Me But..." I was recently asked "what would you say to a couple who both wait tables for a living and don't get health care from their employer." Here's a reality check, that industry is typically part time high school or college or a second income industry. Both spouses working in that industry is not smart and blaming their employer in that industry is less smart. It's time for some personal responsibility. I bet one or both of them have a computer and Internet access. The Internet is a great way to get educated and improve your value. Take advantage of it. Make yourself more valuable and get a better job with benefits.
Do you still think I'm calloused? Go back to the beginning and start over. I'm not extraordinary. I started with nothing and turned it into something. If I can do it anyone can. You don't drown by falling in the water. You drown when you don't get up. Stop blaming other people for your circumstances and change your circumstances!
Some years ago, when sharing an opinion on consequences of drug abuse in the navy Keith Goosby told me "where you sit determines where you stand." I've thought about that a lot over the years and as a result I try to add context to my opinions.
Here's context (the short version)... I grew up in a single parent home. My parents divorced prior to my birth and my mother never did remarry. We moved a lot (not sure what we were running to or from) and her income potential was limited at best. On more than one occasion we lived in our car while she looked for a job, first paycheck and a place to live. I know hunger from a child's perspective which is why when our youngest son was once sent to bed without his supper I snuck him food to his bedroom! (Even today if the fridge and pantry aren't full of food it takes me to a bad place.)
I left home at sixteen and joined the navy at eighteen for a career that spanned over twenty-two years. Nearly ten years ago I started a business out of pocket and on a part time basis. With the support of my bride we've invested more time than anyone can imagine and it's paid off quite nicely.
All that to say this. I've had a belly full of people who find some moral superiority in espousing opinions that somehow the weak can be made whole by crippling the strong. That somehow they have the moral high ground by in the mistaken belief that it's OK to take the fruits of ones labor and give it to someone who has not earned it. It's so easy writing checks from someone else's checkbook.
Now, before you dismiss me as some uncaring and selfish son-of-a-gun let's dig a little deeper. Remember, where you sit determines where you stand.
First, let's do a little comparison. Vice President Joe Biden's tax return for 2008 is posted on the Internet - look it up. His adjusted gross income (AGI) was over $269,000. His charitable contributions totaled $1,885 or .7% of his adjusted income. In a moment of transparency I'll share that his AGI is about three times our family AGI and yet as an conservative individual I believe that charitable giving is basic for health on many levels. I do admit a certain selfishness involved. See, we get good feeling when we give to help others. Over 20% of our AGI goes to support things like our church, World Vision, the Christopher Collins Foundation, T.E.A.C.H., Shriner's, AMVETS, etc.
I'm incensed the the leader of the free world held a conference call with nationally known religious leaders to suggest that Christians are morally wrong if they don't support his health care agenda and conveniently takes up the "I am my brothers keeper" mantra. I'm here to tell you that you are NOT absolved of being your brothers keeper by supporting higher taxes on the rich (however they are defined this week). You are NOT absolved of being your brothers keeper by supporting any government program, no matter how pure the intention. You are your brothers keeper on a personal and an individual level - dig deep. Justice, social or otherwise, is not achieve by being unjust to another.
In deference to "Nobody Asked Me But..." I was recently asked "what would you say to a couple who both wait tables for a living and don't get health care from their employer." Here's a reality check, that industry is typically part time high school or college or a second income industry. Both spouses working in that industry is not smart and blaming their employer in that industry is less smart. It's time for some personal responsibility. I bet one or both of them have a computer and Internet access. The Internet is a great way to get educated and improve your value. Take advantage of it. Make yourself more valuable and get a better job with benefits.
Do you still think I'm calloused? Go back to the beginning and start over. I'm not extraordinary. I started with nothing and turned it into something. If I can do it anyone can. You don't drown by falling in the water. You drown when you don't get up. Stop blaming other people for your circumstances and change your circumstances!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Love Dare
About six weeks ago Cheryl rented the movie "Fireproof." Now I'm no critic, but even to my untrained eyes the acting left something to be desired. However, if you've been married for any length of time you can't help but find something in the story line that you can identify with. And, such was the case with both of us.
Cheryl and I have been married for thirty-three years next month (thru no fault of my own). We sat quietly contemplating what we had just seen and independently came to the same conclusion. We wanted to do the 40 day "Love Dare" on the premise that even a good marriage can be made better. We also decided that we wanted to share it with the three couples closest to us - our two sons, their wives, a niece and her spouse who lives locally.
Cheryl wasted no time in buying the movie and four copies of the "Love Dare." Together we picked out moleskines for each of the players to journal in - pink for the gals and black for the guys. Now it was just a matter of trying to schedule a time that would work for everyone. This was finally worked out to be Saturday. Dinner and a movie, our house (after the NFL Draft!). :)
The event went pretty much as anticipated and we were just excited about sharing something we were both enthused about.
Sunday: Day 1 - Resolve to demonstrate patience and say nothing negative to your spouse at all.
I felt like I had a head start since I'd seen the movie twice and the book had been in the house for six weeks now. I proudly gave myself a up check at the end of the day.
Monday: Day 2 - In addition to repeating Day 1, do one unexpected gesture of kindness.
Still feeling pretty positive about not saying anything negative. Hmmm... an unexpected gesture of kindness.
Now I'm a rather old fashioned kind of guy (now don't be throwin' stuff at me) so finding me in the kitchen someplace other than the refrigerator would be pretty unexpected. So while Cheryl was grocery shopping I wandered in there with some good intentions.
The dishes seemed like a good place to start. There were a few dishes out so I opened the dishwasher but it was already full. How do you tell if they are clean or dirty? I started it just to be safe. Then I started to hand wash the few on the drainboard. It was about then that I noticed a box on top of the fridge that I knew contained a replacement timer for the oven.
Guess I'm easily side tracked. I stopped everything and pulled the stove out from the wall. Then I went to the garage to get some tools. In short order I'd broken the stove down to parade rest and had pieces spread out all over the drainboard. That's when Cheryl got home.
Good thing Cheryl loves me! The kitchen I'd started, with good intentions, to clean looked like a train wreck. I did, however, complete the repair. The stove clock now works again as well as the oven timer. That's when I noticed the receipt in the bottom of the box - 4/12/2002. She's also patient.
Cheryl saved my by saying, "I brought home some steaks. Why don't your fire up the BBQ and I'll take care of the rest of this." What a gal!
I think I need a do over for Day 2. ... an unexpected gesture of kindness...
Any ideas?
Cheryl and I have been married for thirty-three years next month (thru no fault of my own). We sat quietly contemplating what we had just seen and independently came to the same conclusion. We wanted to do the 40 day "Love Dare" on the premise that even a good marriage can be made better. We also decided that we wanted to share it with the three couples closest to us - our two sons, their wives, a niece and her spouse who lives locally.
Cheryl wasted no time in buying the movie and four copies of the "Love Dare." Together we picked out moleskines for each of the players to journal in - pink for the gals and black for the guys. Now it was just a matter of trying to schedule a time that would work for everyone. This was finally worked out to be Saturday. Dinner and a movie, our house (after the NFL Draft!). :)
The event went pretty much as anticipated and we were just excited about sharing something we were both enthused about.
Sunday: Day 1 - Resolve to demonstrate patience and say nothing negative to your spouse at all.
I felt like I had a head start since I'd seen the movie twice and the book had been in the house for six weeks now. I proudly gave myself a up check at the end of the day.
Monday: Day 2 - In addition to repeating Day 1, do one unexpected gesture of kindness.
Still feeling pretty positive about not saying anything negative. Hmmm... an unexpected gesture of kindness.
Now I'm a rather old fashioned kind of guy (now don't be throwin' stuff at me) so finding me in the kitchen someplace other than the refrigerator would be pretty unexpected. So while Cheryl was grocery shopping I wandered in there with some good intentions.
The dishes seemed like a good place to start. There were a few dishes out so I opened the dishwasher but it was already full. How do you tell if they are clean or dirty? I started it just to be safe. Then I started to hand wash the few on the drainboard. It was about then that I noticed a box on top of the fridge that I knew contained a replacement timer for the oven.
Guess I'm easily side tracked. I stopped everything and pulled the stove out from the wall. Then I went to the garage to get some tools. In short order I'd broken the stove down to parade rest and had pieces spread out all over the drainboard. That's when Cheryl got home.
Good thing Cheryl loves me! The kitchen I'd started, with good intentions, to clean looked like a train wreck. I did, however, complete the repair. The stove clock now works again as well as the oven timer. That's when I noticed the receipt in the bottom of the box - 4/12/2002. She's also patient.
Cheryl saved my by saying, "I brought home some steaks. Why don't your fire up the BBQ and I'll take care of the rest of this." What a gal!
I think I need a do over for Day 2. ... an unexpected gesture of kindness...
Any ideas?
Friday, March 13, 2009
A HELL of a lot of confusion...
Glad nobody asked me about this...
At the onset - pardon if I ramble. I've sat on this all week and I'm just trying to work it all out!
In January my church's teaching pastor did a GREAT series on "A Year of Living Dangerously." It totally rocked and I didn't want to miss a minute of it. However, I'm kind of wishing I'd been out of town last Sunday - you know - stick my head in the sand, break my iPod and corrupt iTunes - darn, I didn't get that one. But, alas, I was in my regular seat. In fact, this was the first time my youngest son has been with the family for Sunday morning services. (He's been working weekends for two years.)
It seemed to me that this particular service could have easily been taught by Brian McLaren, Doug Pagitt or Marko - though I wasn't aware JCC had that bent. I have no doubt Ed would rather teach on tithing or maybe Ephesians 5:22-23 than "You Asked about... HELL" (the last might be a toss up). In the end I just could not build a bridge between "A Dangerous God" (He is judgemental, woe is me - Iam ruined, etc) and Hell is nothing more than separation from God.
It just sounded rather sophmoric like:
- Bad Todd, now go to your room - forever, or;
- I'm blocking you from my twitter account and removing you as my friend on Facebook (and telling everyone I did).
Maybe I missed something but I know I wasn't sleeping or checking sports scores on my phone. Frankly, I've been mad enough at God at times in my life that I might have wanted a little separation (and did separate myself from Him). I am ever so greatful that He has not wanted to be separated from me. And, that His grace is sufficient.
Though I didn't grow up with him, this is the very subject that caused my father to leave the seminary and turn his back on organized religion/Christianity. You know, loving God - Hell. They just seemed mutually exclusive to him.
Perhaps someone can help me here because I'm feeling incomplete. I'd happily buy Ed a cup of his favorite Starbucks refreshment to dig deeper. But, I'll settle for what I can get. :)
At the onset - pardon if I ramble. I've sat on this all week and I'm just trying to work it all out!
In January my church's teaching pastor did a GREAT series on "A Year of Living Dangerously." It totally rocked and I didn't want to miss a minute of it. However, I'm kind of wishing I'd been out of town last Sunday - you know - stick my head in the sand, break my iPod and corrupt iTunes - darn, I didn't get that one. But, alas, I was in my regular seat. In fact, this was the first time my youngest son has been with the family for Sunday morning services. (He's been working weekends for two years.)
It seemed to me that this particular service could have easily been taught by Brian McLaren, Doug Pagitt or Marko - though I wasn't aware JCC had that bent. I have no doubt Ed would rather teach on tithing or maybe Ephesians 5:22-23 than "You Asked about... HELL" (the last might be a toss up). In the end I just could not build a bridge between "A Dangerous God" (He is judgemental, woe is me - Iam ruined, etc) and Hell is nothing more than separation from God.
It just sounded rather sophmoric like:
- Bad Todd, now go to your room - forever, or;
- I'm blocking you from my twitter account and removing you as my friend on Facebook (and telling everyone I did).
Maybe I missed something but I know I wasn't sleeping or checking sports scores on my phone. Frankly, I've been mad enough at God at times in my life that I might have wanted a little separation (and did separate myself from Him). I am ever so greatful that He has not wanted to be separated from me. And, that His grace is sufficient.
Though I didn't grow up with him, this is the very subject that caused my father to leave the seminary and turn his back on organized religion/Christianity. You know, loving God - Hell. They just seemed mutually exclusive to him.
Perhaps someone can help me here because I'm feeling incomplete. I'd happily buy Ed a cup of his favorite Starbucks refreshment to dig deeper. But, I'll settle for what I can get. :)
Saturday, February 28, 2009
PERSONAL HYGIENE
Personal hygiene was certainly not the intended subject for my next post. In fact, it wasn’t even on the list of conceived post. But life takes some funny twist and turns and here we are. Of course, nobody asked me, but…
I am continuously in and out of homes and offices and meeting new people. Oftentimes the environment puts us in close quarters. While my business is technology it continues to exist because of developed relationships and personal hygiene plays a huge role. This past week I found myself in close quarters with someone seriously lacking personal hygiene skills. Like “Pig-Pen” from the Peanuts comic strip it appeared just to be a way of life – so sad. I wish I knew why and knew a way to broach the subject. In this case, I think the straight forward approach would probably produce a lose – lose end game. Maybe you, the reader have some thoughts on the subject.
I joined the U.S. Navy in March of 1976 and attended boot camp in San Diego. We had our own company “Pig-Pen” and he wasn’t a company asset. Our Company Commander would inspect us and “Pig-Pen” always had something wrong with his uniform but even worse was the fact, that while we were required too and given time, he wouldn’t shower and brush his teeth. The odor that emanated from his body in formation was horrible. Finally, the Company Commander began to discipline the entire company for this one individual’s hygiene habits. At that point, the company took steps to adjust his behavior after taps one night. ‘Nuff said about that incident.
Later in my career I had a Sailor in my division aboard ship that had similar hygiene habits. It’s bad enough with sixty guys in one berthing compartment who give a darn. But, add one who won’t shower, brush his teeth or get his laundry washed can make a both a berthing compartment and work space really brutal. When the complaints came to me I tried sitting down and counseling him. That worked for a short period of time but after awhile he went back to the old habits. I guess it’s true – “a mind changed against its will is of the same opinion still.”
For the health and comfort of his shipmates I ended up tasking his LPO with getting him up thirty minutes before reveille and escorting him to the head (shipboard bathroom) and making him shower, shave and brush his teeth. Once a week his Work Center Supervisor was tasked to stand by him in berthing so he would strip his rack and remake it with clean sheets. This was followed by going through his locker to make sure all his dirty clothes got sent to the laundry.
We laugh at the Peanuts character “Pig-Pen” but it’s really sad. Imagine the poor soul whose personal hygiene habits announce his presence everywhere he goes. Would be friends and Co-workers avoid getting to close and staying around too long. And, the closest of personal relationships just don’t get the opportunity to blossom. One doesn’t have to guess how much the personal hygiene habits of “Pig-Pen”stymied the relationship with his “love interest” Violet.
I am continuously in and out of homes and offices and meeting new people. Oftentimes the environment puts us in close quarters. While my business is technology it continues to exist because of developed relationships and personal hygiene plays a huge role. This past week I found myself in close quarters with someone seriously lacking personal hygiene skills. Like “Pig-Pen” from the Peanuts comic strip it appeared just to be a way of life – so sad. I wish I knew why and knew a way to broach the subject. In this case, I think the straight forward approach would probably produce a lose – lose end game. Maybe you, the reader have some thoughts on the subject.
I joined the U.S. Navy in March of 1976 and attended boot camp in San Diego. We had our own company “Pig-Pen” and he wasn’t a company asset. Our Company Commander would inspect us and “Pig-Pen” always had something wrong with his uniform but even worse was the fact, that while we were required too and given time, he wouldn’t shower and brush his teeth. The odor that emanated from his body in formation was horrible. Finally, the Company Commander began to discipline the entire company for this one individual’s hygiene habits. At that point, the company took steps to adjust his behavior after taps one night. ‘Nuff said about that incident.
Later in my career I had a Sailor in my division aboard ship that had similar hygiene habits. It’s bad enough with sixty guys in one berthing compartment who give a darn. But, add one who won’t shower, brush his teeth or get his laundry washed can make a both a berthing compartment and work space really brutal. When the complaints came to me I tried sitting down and counseling him. That worked for a short period of time but after awhile he went back to the old habits. I guess it’s true – “a mind changed against its will is of the same opinion still.”
For the health and comfort of his shipmates I ended up tasking his LPO with getting him up thirty minutes before reveille and escorting him to the head (shipboard bathroom) and making him shower, shave and brush his teeth. Once a week his Work Center Supervisor was tasked to stand by him in berthing so he would strip his rack and remake it with clean sheets. This was followed by going through his locker to make sure all his dirty clothes got sent to the laundry.
We laugh at the Peanuts character “Pig-Pen” but it’s really sad. Imagine the poor soul whose personal hygiene habits announce his presence everywhere he goes. Would be friends and Co-workers avoid getting to close and staying around too long. And, the closest of personal relationships just don’t get the opportunity to blossom. One doesn’t have to guess how much the personal hygiene habits of “Pig-Pen”stymied the relationship with his “love interest” Violet.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow...
I hate to admit something that everyone else has known all along - I'm human. I have fears and weaknesses and though I think I'm pretty handy at compartmentalizing my life, these past several weeks have really pushed me beyond my meager capabilities - but not beyond God's.
Several weeks ago my bride of 32 years, during a routine procedure, was found to have an unidentified spot on her liver. Prudent medicine required scheduling a CT scan which was done a week ago Friday. Then the wait to have it read and the wait for another doctor's appointment to get the results.
Early on we determined that everything was going to be OK and, in any event, it was in God's hands. It seemed so easy for Cheryl who is a woman of unshakable faith. For me... while I could push that compartment door closed I couldn't lock it shut. While I placed her health in God's hands my fears would creep in. I found myself driving from service call to service call with teary eyes.
Prayer was the only thing that provided peace. I have grown enough in my walk to pray that God's will be done rather than "God, let's make a deal." However, I surely let Him know the desires of my heart.
Today we received an answer to that prayer. I missed the medical terms but it was something about blood vessels and the equivalent to a birth mark on her liver. Praise God! She (Cheryl) has to put up with me for years to come yet!
My relief knows no bounds. On the ride home I was so excited I offered to take her to Hawaii. Ever practical she said, "stay focused Todd."
WOW! My cup is overflowing.
Several weeks ago my bride of 32 years, during a routine procedure, was found to have an unidentified spot on her liver. Prudent medicine required scheduling a CT scan which was done a week ago Friday. Then the wait to have it read and the wait for another doctor's appointment to get the results.
Early on we determined that everything was going to be OK and, in any event, it was in God's hands. It seemed so easy for Cheryl who is a woman of unshakable faith. For me... while I could push that compartment door closed I couldn't lock it shut. While I placed her health in God's hands my fears would creep in. I found myself driving from service call to service call with teary eyes.
Prayer was the only thing that provided peace. I have grown enough in my walk to pray that God's will be done rather than "God, let's make a deal." However, I surely let Him know the desires of my heart.
Today we received an answer to that prayer. I missed the medical terms but it was something about blood vessels and the equivalent to a birth mark on her liver. Praise God! She (Cheryl) has to put up with me for years to come yet!
My relief knows no bounds. On the ride home I was so excited I offered to take her to Hawaii. Ever practical she said, "stay focused Todd."
WOW! My cup is overflowing.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Giving Dangerously
I keep having these recurring dreams of posting to this blog but wake up and nothing has changed. I even have material... still nothing. Like everyone else, I'm busy. However, sitting in church Sunday morning I had a thought and, here it is, Monday night, I'm still busy but if I don't move on this it will pass me by.
Just in case anybody missed it the economy is headed south and not even looking over its shoulder. And, as positive as I am that better days are ahead it’s no consolation to anyone that has lost a job, a home or watched their 401K turn into a 201K in recent months.
To set the stage, surfer dude and teaching pastor Ed Noble is doing a series titled "A Year of Living Dangerously." This week was part 4 - "A Dangerous Discipline" and it was no surprise, as I scanned through the notes prior to the start of service, to see a Leviticus reference to tithing.
Ahh, the tithing talk. Best as I can tell it is probably the least favorite thing to teach on since it's almost never talked about. Being "seeker friendly" we sneak up on giving by telling visitors to let the bag pass by. And, that "this is an opportunity for those who call God our father and Journey our home..." (And, I think, we as a body are proper for doing it that way.)
So, when Ed got to the "obvious" point in the notes and skipped over it I thought "NO, ED, DON'T WIMP OUT!" I couldn't have been more wrong. Thank-you Ed (he'll never read this). You covered it beautifully.
All of that to drop my two cents. I'm somewhat hesitant to be quite this transparent but here goes. For the majority of 32 years of marriage our family has been a single income family. As such I would mentally justify letting the bag pass by or dropping a little folding money on occasion. My justification being "God knows how tight things are and He's just happy I'm here."
Of course God did know how tight things were and He was happy any time I entered His house. But, it's hard to bless a disobedient son. Even God can't steer a parked car.
Since recommitting my life to Christ and committing my business to operate in a manor pleasing to Him things have simply blossomed. Life hasn't gotten easier. There has been financial crisis within the family. Cheryl lost her mother and I lost my father this past year but our business has continued to flourish and, in fact, increase substantially enabling Cheryl to make frequent and extended trips to Colorado to take care of her folks and additionally make multiple trips to Texas for us to be with mine. God has provided more than just our needs.
There are certain biblical principles or laws you might say that just cannot be ignored without suffering consequences.
1. The law of reciprocity: you reap what you sow
2. The law of increasing returns: you reap more than you sow
3. The law of delayed gratification: you reap after you sow
I don't believe in performance based Christianity. I figured out a long time ago I'll never be good enough and need all the grace I can get. I do believe however, that God cannot lie and when He says "test me" I'd be an idiot not to go all in.
So, there you go. Nobody asked me, but...
Just in case anybody missed it the economy is headed south and not even looking over its shoulder. And, as positive as I am that better days are ahead it’s no consolation to anyone that has lost a job, a home or watched their 401K turn into a 201K in recent months.
To set the stage, surfer dude and teaching pastor Ed Noble is doing a series titled "A Year of Living Dangerously." This week was part 4 - "A Dangerous Discipline" and it was no surprise, as I scanned through the notes prior to the start of service, to see a Leviticus reference to tithing.
Ahh, the tithing talk. Best as I can tell it is probably the least favorite thing to teach on since it's almost never talked about. Being "seeker friendly" we sneak up on giving by telling visitors to let the bag pass by. And, that "this is an opportunity for those who call God our father and Journey our home..." (And, I think, we as a body are proper for doing it that way.)
So, when Ed got to the "obvious" point in the notes and skipped over it I thought "NO, ED, DON'T WIMP OUT!" I couldn't have been more wrong. Thank-you Ed (he'll never read this). You covered it beautifully.
All of that to drop my two cents. I'm somewhat hesitant to be quite this transparent but here goes. For the majority of 32 years of marriage our family has been a single income family. As such I would mentally justify letting the bag pass by or dropping a little folding money on occasion. My justification being "God knows how tight things are and He's just happy I'm here."
Of course God did know how tight things were and He was happy any time I entered His house. But, it's hard to bless a disobedient son. Even God can't steer a parked car.
Since recommitting my life to Christ and committing my business to operate in a manor pleasing to Him things have simply blossomed. Life hasn't gotten easier. There has been financial crisis within the family. Cheryl lost her mother and I lost my father this past year but our business has continued to flourish and, in fact, increase substantially enabling Cheryl to make frequent and extended trips to Colorado to take care of her folks and additionally make multiple trips to Texas for us to be with mine. God has provided more than just our needs.
There are certain biblical principles or laws you might say that just cannot be ignored without suffering consequences.
1. The law of reciprocity: you reap what you sow
2. The law of increasing returns: you reap more than you sow
3. The law of delayed gratification: you reap after you sow
I don't believe in performance based Christianity. I figured out a long time ago I'll never be good enough and need all the grace I can get. I do believe however, that God cannot lie and when He says "test me" I'd be an idiot not to go all in.
So, there you go. Nobody asked me, but...
Thursday, January 1, 2009
My First Blog & Introduction
Hi!
Nobody asked me but...
My name is Todd. (hi todd)
My worklife revolves around technology so why is this so difficult to setup? I browse through other blogs and and see master pieces - works of art - organization. None of that will apply here. I don't even know if I can keep this up on a regular basis. For that matter, what is a regular basis?
I have a twitter account but seldom tweet. I opened a myspace account just so I could see family photos of non-local family. I have a Facebook account but no face (presently using my company logo).
So why blog? I guess this is a place to put those thoughts, opinions & tolsonisms for all those times I have something to say on the subject but - nobody asked me! :D
Todd - the father
Nobody asked me but...
My name is Todd. (hi todd)
My worklife revolves around technology so why is this so difficult to setup? I browse through other blogs and and see master pieces - works of art - organization. None of that will apply here. I don't even know if I can keep this up on a regular basis. For that matter, what is a regular basis?
I have a twitter account but seldom tweet. I opened a myspace account just so I could see family photos of non-local family. I have a Facebook account but no face (presently using my company logo).
So why blog? I guess this is a place to put those thoughts, opinions & tolsonisms for all those times I have something to say on the subject but - nobody asked me! :D
Todd - the father
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