So, youngest daughter has turned 21. I have three (3!) 21 year old daughters now! And with each 21 year old event has come the cultures siren call of getting drunk. I warned each of them, as I have all of "my" kids through the years and to date - NO one has listened. They all go for the learning experience the hard way.
So, all but daughter in Texas, when out for the marathon of drinking. And reality bites when you discover that drinking makes you a person you never were.
I managed 1.5 hours of sleep before the phone was ringing. Youngest had gotten lost. How was this even possible? She had her older sister to protect her, next daughter down was the designated driver and then the rest of the party was her boozing friends for the night. And they lost her - for two hours.....
Eventually she was found. It seems that she had gotten into a fight with the other 21 year old daughter and had taken off. Of course being drunk did not exactly help her in her efforts to find her way home.
Last call was around two in the morning and they were still screaming at each other in the car as it made its way to oldest daughter's house.
I am pretty sure I would not want to be in that home this morning - probably a whole lot of face in toilet time going down....
Friday, June 29, 2012
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Ex Cathedra
If you were in my personal life, you would be perplexed at how do I "know" things. You eventually would conclude that Kris has discernment. Then one day you would want Kris to play prophet and ask him what God's will is for a situation. It has happened once for everyone in my life. Why not twice? Because they want a yes or no answer and instead get a revelation of a problem in their own life, that is the real root of the real question. There has been one person whom has asked twice and I am pretty sure she will never ask a third time.....
But it was just not her question, it was mine as well. I needed to know what is going on. I needed to know what was really behind the situation. I needed to understand how in God's determinative or permissive will, the situation could be true. Because the decision affects me, as well as, my understand of what God has been doing in my own life.....
In less than a fraction of a second I "knew" she was either lying to herself or was misleading herself. I was either erring on the side of compassion or my own will. Yeah, everyone was wrong. And so given a night of no sleep, I had plenty of time to pray and think on this......
The answer? Impetuous. I had to even look up how to spell it much less see what it really meant this morning! She is impetuous. The situation she finds herself in has nothing to do with the situation, anyone's desire, etc. It has to do with her learning to stand on what she knows - without fleeing. Fleeing is easy. God needs her to learn how to stand in place. The impulsive part of her character has to be broken. She has to learn what walking by faith means and that is not possible for an impetuous person. I guess that answers a great many questions I have had.
She understands that her future is determinative, in other words, God is planning on using her for a specific purpose. But she wants to make the present God's permissive will because, hey, that is so much easier and honestly, a whole lot lovelier than standing in place, given the situation.
So, if she does what she wants and does not address what she knows she should, well God will call her back to where she is supposed to be. Or, worse yet, God can let her go her way and she will learn her lesson the hard way.
And therein lay the problem for any of us: man's common sense or desire, has nothing to do with what God wants for us. Our desires will always lead to our own destruction. Because His ways are not our ways. His wisdom is not ours. His outcome is never what we really seek or can understand.
And you have to understand that the above answer for her is actually to my own detriment, but I will not explain the why. It is enough that I understand the true cost of her standing in place and what that impact will have on me (as if my life was not complicated enough!).
As for the title of this posting? It is an ill thought out doctrine of the Roman Catholic church from the 14th Century. The thought that any man can speak for God is appalling to me. God can tell us, but we can understand imperfectly, we communicate imperfectly, the hearer then understands less perfectly. Beginning with the one God tells something to, the errors may then begin....
So, I know you will not have liked this answer. It violates common sense, it is not what anyone wants, and yet the choice is still yours to do with as you please. And you need to remember what love, honesty and transparency really are....
But it was just not her question, it was mine as well. I needed to know what is going on. I needed to know what was really behind the situation. I needed to understand how in God's determinative or permissive will, the situation could be true. Because the decision affects me, as well as, my understand of what God has been doing in my own life.....
In less than a fraction of a second I "knew" she was either lying to herself or was misleading herself. I was either erring on the side of compassion or my own will. Yeah, everyone was wrong. And so given a night of no sleep, I had plenty of time to pray and think on this......
The answer? Impetuous. I had to even look up how to spell it much less see what it really meant this morning! She is impetuous. The situation she finds herself in has nothing to do with the situation, anyone's desire, etc. It has to do with her learning to stand on what she knows - without fleeing. Fleeing is easy. God needs her to learn how to stand in place. The impulsive part of her character has to be broken. She has to learn what walking by faith means and that is not possible for an impetuous person. I guess that answers a great many questions I have had.
She understands that her future is determinative, in other words, God is planning on using her for a specific purpose. But she wants to make the present God's permissive will because, hey, that is so much easier and honestly, a whole lot lovelier than standing in place, given the situation.
So, if she does what she wants and does not address what she knows she should, well God will call her back to where she is supposed to be. Or, worse yet, God can let her go her way and she will learn her lesson the hard way.
And therein lay the problem for any of us: man's common sense or desire, has nothing to do with what God wants for us. Our desires will always lead to our own destruction. Because His ways are not our ways. His wisdom is not ours. His outcome is never what we really seek or can understand.
And you have to understand that the above answer for her is actually to my own detriment, but I will not explain the why. It is enough that I understand the true cost of her standing in place and what that impact will have on me (as if my life was not complicated enough!).
As for the title of this posting? It is an ill thought out doctrine of the Roman Catholic church from the 14th Century. The thought that any man can speak for God is appalling to me. God can tell us, but we can understand imperfectly, we communicate imperfectly, the hearer then understands less perfectly. Beginning with the one God tells something to, the errors may then begin....
So, I know you will not have liked this answer. It violates common sense, it is not what anyone wants, and yet the choice is still yours to do with as you please. And you need to remember what love, honesty and transparency really are....
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Counting Coins
Those of you whom remember my move, might remember I put my money in old coinage - as a safe source for transport. I spent a great deal of them to take a vacation last year, worth every penny too! But, now I count my coins with an eye as to what do I now part with? The step towards my future, my break with my present, the bankrupt freedom of my tomorrow.
I have finally found a Christian female counselor for Gaelic Girl, I still need to interview her and appraise her Christian stance as being of value in helping GG. Then I need to get the two of them together. What will it cost me, this first step? I finally settled upon 1893 .25 and .50 Colombian Exhibition Commemeratives. Both are high mint state and should bring a dealer 4 figures, me substantially less. So tomorrow the trickle begins, towards my future.
As for number two daughter, she came over last night to tell me that it is over and basically she is willing to sign over her child to his parents and take a walk. Please pray, she at least does not abandon her child.....
Thanks.
I have finally found a Christian female counselor for Gaelic Girl, I still need to interview her and appraise her Christian stance as being of value in helping GG. Then I need to get the two of them together. What will it cost me, this first step? I finally settled upon 1893 .25 and .50 Colombian Exhibition Commemeratives. Both are high mint state and should bring a dealer 4 figures, me substantially less. So tomorrow the trickle begins, towards my future.
As for number two daughter, she came over last night to tell me that it is over and basically she is willing to sign over her child to his parents and take a walk. Please pray, she at least does not abandon her child.....
Thanks.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
The Attack Continues
As daughter and I have been working towards her healing, I have continued to warn her of the mess she will encounter. Problems, opportunities to go sideways, etc. All starting far away and then slowly working its way closer and closer to her as Satan manipulates strangers, friends and then family around her in an attempt to deviate her from the course she is on. And yeah, it has been sometimes humorous to witness. Humorous only from the standpoint that I trust in her heart and commitment to stand solid, albeit with lots of prayer supporting her. Of course, one occasion I was quite worried for her safety and she got to meet the sociopath one afternoon - thankfully, God was there, so there was no problem still present for me to address. But she still got to meet someone I prefer she did not.
But, I never told her completely the price I was to pay for my involvement in her healing, other than it would cost me everything. And it has slowly been playing out that way. Gaelic Girl fails and I will pay for her healing, but I will have lost my best friend in the end. Youngest daughter and son's opposition to daughter has put great distance between them and me. I get accused of throwing them away, in favor of new daughter, but they do not see I am doing nothing, I am unchanged and still in place - but evil has moved them sideways and they blame me for this distance their sin has caused them to shift.
You have to remember Kris' theory of the weakest link. Satan will attack those weakest in your life whom surround you, in an attempt to persuade you to change your course. But then, I understand that in all likelihood I only live because I willfully chose this course!
So, the progression of the dance continues daily, each time the blade becomes sharper and draws more blood. But, it is my resolve, to stand firm to my vow.
Daughter is having to stand on her own while visiting her mother. I know it is hard for her, I know that God is watching and protecting. But, I also know that Satan will continue his attempts to reach her. I have supreme confidence in this. I also am praying up a storm for her ability to take whatever is thrown at her and stand firm on what she knows. I have to admit I fear the call telling me that she is in the hospital.....
But, I was unprepared this morning to get a note from second daughter's inlaws that her marriage is collapsing. Yeah, they started out life completely on the wrong foot, but she seems to have given up. I will not take sides but I did not expect her to have to face this so soon! But, I can see Satan's attack now getting closer to me, by damaging those the dearest to me. And it is not her I am saying this of, because I have known in my spirit for a month now that this was coming because Satan had reached KJ ( a young man I turned to the Lord and discipled years ago ). He was into bad choice mode back then, would not return texts or messages and that situation has exactly one meaning: KJ was hunting number two daughter - again!
Darn discernment; I really hate being right at times, when it is the failures of my loved ones.
Honestly, my life is as though madness has gained control of all around me. I am powerless to assist, no one even wants my assistance, and I continue to see the road so clearly laid out before me.....
But, I never told her completely the price I was to pay for my involvement in her healing, other than it would cost me everything. And it has slowly been playing out that way. Gaelic Girl fails and I will pay for her healing, but I will have lost my best friend in the end. Youngest daughter and son's opposition to daughter has put great distance between them and me. I get accused of throwing them away, in favor of new daughter, but they do not see I am doing nothing, I am unchanged and still in place - but evil has moved them sideways and they blame me for this distance their sin has caused them to shift.
You have to remember Kris' theory of the weakest link. Satan will attack those weakest in your life whom surround you, in an attempt to persuade you to change your course. But then, I understand that in all likelihood I only live because I willfully chose this course!
So, the progression of the dance continues daily, each time the blade becomes sharper and draws more blood. But, it is my resolve, to stand firm to my vow.
Daughter is having to stand on her own while visiting her mother. I know it is hard for her, I know that God is watching and protecting. But, I also know that Satan will continue his attempts to reach her. I have supreme confidence in this. I also am praying up a storm for her ability to take whatever is thrown at her and stand firm on what she knows. I have to admit I fear the call telling me that she is in the hospital.....
But, I was unprepared this morning to get a note from second daughter's inlaws that her marriage is collapsing. Yeah, they started out life completely on the wrong foot, but she seems to have given up. I will not take sides but I did not expect her to have to face this so soon! But, I can see Satan's attack now getting closer to me, by damaging those the dearest to me. And it is not her I am saying this of, because I have known in my spirit for a month now that this was coming because Satan had reached KJ ( a young man I turned to the Lord and discipled years ago ). He was into bad choice mode back then, would not return texts or messages and that situation has exactly one meaning: KJ was hunting number two daughter - again!
Darn discernment; I really hate being right at times, when it is the failures of my loved ones.
Honestly, my life is as though madness has gained control of all around me. I am powerless to assist, no one even wants my assistance, and I continue to see the road so clearly laid out before me.....
Friday, June 22, 2012
Interesting Day
Really can't say much for this week. Nothing is going on. It is though life went into pause mode a week ago with the departure of my daughter, I can not even claim to have had a moment of motivation since since she left. I can now recognized that much of what I have done for the past 90 days has been for her. A way to share my joy of having her back in my life again. But, now that she is gone, I am finding it hard to be civil to those whom were treating me and her so poorly.
Yet, I went and played on YouTube and found this really pretty melody:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HdkdHJyqV3E&feature=plcp
The lyrics of the song suck, since it is a by-product of Robert Smith's drug addiction, but still a beautiful piece of music when done by someone with talent. Ivy and Gold is an interesting group, she has an incredible voice, but then again, we live in a day and age where talent has very little to do with either recognition or ability. Rather sad. Compare her Cosmic Love to that of Florence and the Machine. Yeah the least talented in real life will make a fortune, real talent? Alas.....
Oh yeah, grades came out, I managed a .8 in my hardest class, which takes me from a 3.97 to 2.8 in one fell swoop.....
Yeah, so much fun - so much motivation.....
Yet, I went and played on YouTube and found this really pretty melody:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HdkdHJyqV3E&feature=plcp
The lyrics of the song suck, since it is a by-product of Robert Smith's drug addiction, but still a beautiful piece of music when done by someone with talent. Ivy and Gold is an interesting group, she has an incredible voice, but then again, we live in a day and age where talent has very little to do with either recognition or ability. Rather sad. Compare her Cosmic Love to that of Florence and the Machine. Yeah the least talented in real life will make a fortune, real talent? Alas.....
Oh yeah, grades came out, I managed a .8 in my hardest class, which takes me from a 3.97 to 2.8 in one fell swoop.....
Yeah, so much fun - so much motivation.....
Thursday, June 21, 2012
How To Be A Servant
Just some ideas on how to be a servant.....
1. Volunteer at a local shelter or try and help transients.
2. Pray daily for a friend in need.
3. Write an encouraging letter to a missionary.
4. Invite a visitor to church, to lunch with you.
5. Babysit so a young couple can have a date (maybe pay for their dinner too!).
6. Volunteer working around the church property.
7. Volunteer to teach a sunday school class.
8. Pray for your pastor and elders.
9. Disciple a new believer.
10. Volunteer to do maintenance on the church building.
11. Anonymously give a sacrificial gift to the church or someone in need.
12. Talk with someone after service, no one is talking to.
13. Make dinner for a new mother or family in crisis.
14. Bring snacks for after church fellowship.
15. Volunteer at a local Crisis Pregnancy Center.
16. Volunteer to share information on missions.
17. Go on a short term mission.
18. Serve someone who has hurt you.
19. Mow the yard for a senior citizen.
20. Volunteer to watch kids / sunday school for infants and toddlers.
21. Volunteer to work with the children's ministry.
22. Volunteer to work with the junior and senior high youth ministries!
23. Teach an adult sunday school class.
24. How about being part of the worship ministry or Lauder Team?
25. Volunteer to help with the church office.
26. Visit the forgotten in nursing and rest homes.
27. See a need around the church? Do it.
28. Listen to a story the 100th time and love the teller.
29. Give a gift card to a family in need, anonymously is just fine.....
30. Ask God to show you a need everyday, that you can meet.
1. Volunteer at a local shelter or try and help transients.
2. Pray daily for a friend in need.
3. Write an encouraging letter to a missionary.
4. Invite a visitor to church, to lunch with you.
5. Babysit so a young couple can have a date (maybe pay for their dinner too!).
6. Volunteer working around the church property.
7. Volunteer to teach a sunday school class.
8. Pray for your pastor and elders.
9. Disciple a new believer.
10. Volunteer to do maintenance on the church building.
11. Anonymously give a sacrificial gift to the church or someone in need.
12. Talk with someone after service, no one is talking to.
13. Make dinner for a new mother or family in crisis.
14. Bring snacks for after church fellowship.
15. Volunteer at a local Crisis Pregnancy Center.
16. Volunteer to share information on missions.
17. Go on a short term mission.
18. Serve someone who has hurt you.
19. Mow the yard for a senior citizen.
20. Volunteer to watch kids / sunday school for infants and toddlers.
21. Volunteer to work with the children's ministry.
22. Volunteer to work with the junior and senior high youth ministries!
23. Teach an adult sunday school class.
24. How about being part of the worship ministry or Lauder Team?
25. Volunteer to help with the church office.
26. Visit the forgotten in nursing and rest homes.
27. See a need around the church? Do it.
28. Listen to a story the 100th time and love the teller.
29. Give a gift card to a family in need, anonymously is just fine.....
30. Ask God to show you a need everyday, that you can meet.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Doing Some Dirty Work
Yesterday's post on humility, made me think some on the preceding verses and the whole concept of Service. This year has certainly been a time for me to rethink almost all I know of God: what is service, how does God work, what does it mean to obey, what does it mean to be a servant, indeed - what next Lord?
One evening daughter looked up to me and asked, "If God gave you the total view of all things me, then how can you ....."
If we are honest, even with just ourselves, we all have to wonder at how anyone, much less God, can see us through the eyes of love. At least I think that way about myself. There seems to be a disconnect between what our perception of God is and what the perception of our nature is. Is this concept wrong? Have we collectively misled ourselves? I wonder.....
John 13:1-5
The main idea is that we are to Serve One Another. We are supposed to create and promote a culture of service!
We are to serve because of whom we are. Not sure whom you are? You might find a few hints in Ephesians 1.
We have no need to impress anyone with our service. You are free to serve, free to do every dirty job there is, free to know that you are a servant! That is your identity with Jesus.
There is no such thing as retiring from being a servant!
You are called to work as a servant to all, for your life-time!
There is no quiting, there is no giving up.
Service is to be your expression of love.
Do not make a production of it!
Jesus caused embarrassment on the part of the Apostles. This was not the "master's" role or duties!
There was no announcement on Jesus' part, no call for attention, no focus at all on his actions.
Serve other, no matter what they have done to you!
Remember Judas was in that crowd and got his feet washed too! Jesus didn't skip him and comment on his betrayal. He knew of the betrayal, but Jesus still loved him, Jesus even served the enemy - and they both knew it.
Point?
Live the Kingdom Life, serving all without reservation - in love.
And that is the point I was leading up to: God loves you sufficiently to see you, whom you really are, and still love you. He even loves me and I guarantee I have failed far more than you ever dreamt. God's love, real love, sees all, knows all, and still does not condemn. No, I would not guess at understanding such love, it is terrifying in nature, yet it is what God extends to each and everyone of us....
One evening daughter looked up to me and asked, "If God gave you the total view of all things me, then how can you ....."
If we are honest, even with just ourselves, we all have to wonder at how anyone, much less God, can see us through the eyes of love. At least I think that way about myself. There seems to be a disconnect between what our perception of God is and what the perception of our nature is. Is this concept wrong? Have we collectively misled ourselves? I wonder.....
John 13:1-5
The main idea is that we are to Serve One Another. We are supposed to create and promote a culture of service!
We are to serve because of whom we are. Not sure whom you are? You might find a few hints in Ephesians 1.
We have no need to impress anyone with our service. You are free to serve, free to do every dirty job there is, free to know that you are a servant! That is your identity with Jesus.
There is no such thing as retiring from being a servant!
You are called to work as a servant to all, for your life-time!
There is no quiting, there is no giving up.
Service is to be your expression of love.
Do not make a production of it!
Jesus caused embarrassment on the part of the Apostles. This was not the "master's" role or duties!
There was no announcement on Jesus' part, no call for attention, no focus at all on his actions.
Serve other, no matter what they have done to you!
Remember Judas was in that crowd and got his feet washed too! Jesus didn't skip him and comment on his betrayal. He knew of the betrayal, but Jesus still loved him, Jesus even served the enemy - and they both knew it.
Point?
Live the Kingdom Life, serving all without reservation - in love.
And that is the point I was leading up to: God loves you sufficiently to see you, whom you really are, and still love you. He even loves me and I guarantee I have failed far more than you ever dreamt. God's love, real love, sees all, knows all, and still does not condemn. No, I would not guess at understanding such love, it is terrifying in nature, yet it is what God extends to each and everyone of us....
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
What Humility is Really All About
It was May 1975 and spring break was upon us. I had a choice: go on a retreat with the Star Lake Bible Study I belonged to or spend a very boring week cleaning my apartment. Which to choose, which to choose?!?!? Of course I cut and ran for the camp out/retreat! We had reserved the Hoh Campground, which is next to the La Push River. Very pretty spot - in summer, unbelievably miserable in spring!
So we had two large fires going 24x7 and everyone lived within about 30 inches of either blaze! The first night all of the elders were gathered and Bud asked what we ought to do with our time - as if nothing was planned? Yup, to everyone's surprise there was nothing planned! After a long period of thought I mentioned that I had never been baptized and two others commented the same. Interestingly, there were two others in the larger group whom were unbaptized as well, and coincidentally, we five were the only ones to have brought swim suits!
Yeah, this incident is the one that suddenly opened my eyes to there being NO COINCIDENCES. I mean, what are the odds here?
So, the following day we five were baptized in the La Push River and then retired to the restrooms to change into something warm! and Leonard Savage, a good friend, grabbed a towel and started drying my legs and feet. I was horrified, I was humbled, I was left having no ability to even comment!
So, John 13:6-11
Which would you prefer?
If you remember: the setting of this passage is the upper room, the last week of Jesus' life. And the Apostles are arguing over whom is the most loved, the greatest, etc. Jesus gets up, grabs a towel, a wash basin and shows what it means to be the greatest one in the room. The servant of all.
In order to receive it - you have to put aside your pride.
Peter refused, he threw a hissy fit, "you may not wash my feet!" Tradition dictated that this was not the role for the master, it was the role of the servants! And, none of them were servants!
Humility is to receive the service of others.
Humility is to give the service to others.
Pride involves conceit, being impatient, being demanding - what all of the Apostles were demonstrating prior to this.
You have to be willing to admit you are eternally clean but practically dirty.....
Peter then changes his tune to "do all of me!" Yeah, he realized how unclean he really was and need to be ritually cleansed. And what better way than to have the Master, the Messiah, do this for him! Awesome idea! Not.
We are completely forgiven, Jesus paid for all of you sins - from your birth through the moment of your death. ALL sin was paid for at the cross. But we all continue to live in sin, like pigs in a mud bath! Which brings to mind Bill Bright's "spiritual breathing", to live our lives such that we are continually breathing out confession for what we have just done wrong (again!) and breath back in God's forgiveness. Simple, elegant, I love Bill Bright.
You have to see humility, it matters more than you know.
For all intents and purposes, Jesus looked just like an out of control Rabbi to the outside world. But, he was doing what was required of him.
Anonymous acts do not equal insignificant acts. Just think on that the next time you are in a toilet and discover the toilet paper is missing! Yeah, small acts can make a real difference to you and your day.
Small acts of service are what eventually lead to Jesus being our Savior. And that will require humility on your part.
Jesus is coming for your feet, are you ready to receive him ..... ?
So we had two large fires going 24x7 and everyone lived within about 30 inches of either blaze! The first night all of the elders were gathered and Bud asked what we ought to do with our time - as if nothing was planned? Yup, to everyone's surprise there was nothing planned! After a long period of thought I mentioned that I had never been baptized and two others commented the same. Interestingly, there were two others in the larger group whom were unbaptized as well, and coincidentally, we five were the only ones to have brought swim suits!
Yeah, this incident is the one that suddenly opened my eyes to there being NO COINCIDENCES. I mean, what are the odds here?
So, the following day we five were baptized in the La Push River and then retired to the restrooms to change into something warm! and Leonard Savage, a good friend, grabbed a towel and started drying my legs and feet. I was horrified, I was humbled, I was left having no ability to even comment!
So, John 13:6-11
Which would you prefer?
- Poor and loving your job or rich and hating it?
- Having your flight delayed or arriving on time with no luggage?
- Lick a frog or a dollar bill?
- Wash someone else's feet or have them wash yours?
If you remember: the setting of this passage is the upper room, the last week of Jesus' life. And the Apostles are arguing over whom is the most loved, the greatest, etc. Jesus gets up, grabs a towel, a wash basin and shows what it means to be the greatest one in the room. The servant of all.
In order to receive it - you have to put aside your pride.
Peter refused, he threw a hissy fit, "you may not wash my feet!" Tradition dictated that this was not the role for the master, it was the role of the servants! And, none of them were servants!
Humility is to receive the service of others.
Humility is to give the service to others.
Pride involves conceit, being impatient, being demanding - what all of the Apostles were demonstrating prior to this.
You have to be willing to admit you are eternally clean but practically dirty.....
Peter then changes his tune to "do all of me!" Yeah, he realized how unclean he really was and need to be ritually cleansed. And what better way than to have the Master, the Messiah, do this for him! Awesome idea! Not.
We are completely forgiven, Jesus paid for all of you sins - from your birth through the moment of your death. ALL sin was paid for at the cross. But we all continue to live in sin, like pigs in a mud bath! Which brings to mind Bill Bright's "spiritual breathing", to live our lives such that we are continually breathing out confession for what we have just done wrong (again!) and breath back in God's forgiveness. Simple, elegant, I love Bill Bright.
You have to see humility, it matters more than you know.
For all intents and purposes, Jesus looked just like an out of control Rabbi to the outside world. But, he was doing what was required of him.
Anonymous acts do not equal insignificant acts. Just think on that the next time you are in a toilet and discover the toilet paper is missing! Yeah, small acts can make a real difference to you and your day.
Small acts of service are what eventually lead to Jesus being our Savior. And that will require humility on your part.
Jesus is coming for your feet, are you ready to receive him ..... ?
Monday, June 18, 2012
Father's Day
Not much to say, as a day when fathers' are supposed to be honored, it was a bit weird.
The day started off with Gaelic Girl telling me to take a hike out of her life. She then went on to comment at how she is going to kill herself, etc, etc, etc. If it was anyone but her I would comment on the whole drama queen aspect of this but we are talking about a scientist, not an emo..... Today, at daughter's urging, I called the local Suicide Crisis Center and had a long talk with them. They were rather excited to have someone calling in for someone else. People don't? So, they agree she is at risk and in need of counseling. Apparently there are more resources out there than I thought. So, I will now be implementing my plan I had several weeks ago - sell everything and get her brain unscrambled. And if she refuses, call the police and they can force her since she is threatening harm to herself.
But, it also means that our relationship is over. I know she is hurting, but some of what was said was beyond cruel. No, it is not hardness of heart on my part - it is my now understanding reality. The future apparently died long ago, she just forgot to tell me. So for now, get her healed and let God worry about the tomorrows. I also called the pastor to see if there is some Christian counseling network (hopefully working for low, low, low prices!). But, his son is getting married this week, so I do not really expect to hear back for a spell.
I got to see most of the kids during the day and that was pleasant. Son, whom had taken off with his girlfriend last year for father's day, stuck around this time - but no acknowledgement he even has a father. Youngest daughter gave me a date to Outback, with her - LOL! Oldest daughter, husband in tow, visited for a while and middle daughter promised to see me today. As for my daughter, she sent a very sweet text - which was the greatest gift of all, especially when one considers how far she has come and how closely we have bonded in such a short amount of time. Truly a blessing.
I had a good video afternoon: Megalodon, Giant Shark vs Giant Octopus, Mega Piranha and Stardust just before bedtime.
So time for me to get back to seeing how daughter's prescription refill is going, so I can get it mailed off to her!
The day started off with Gaelic Girl telling me to take a hike out of her life. She then went on to comment at how she is going to kill herself, etc, etc, etc. If it was anyone but her I would comment on the whole drama queen aspect of this but we are talking about a scientist, not an emo..... Today, at daughter's urging, I called the local Suicide Crisis Center and had a long talk with them. They were rather excited to have someone calling in for someone else. People don't? So, they agree she is at risk and in need of counseling. Apparently there are more resources out there than I thought. So, I will now be implementing my plan I had several weeks ago - sell everything and get her brain unscrambled. And if she refuses, call the police and they can force her since she is threatening harm to herself.
But, it also means that our relationship is over. I know she is hurting, but some of what was said was beyond cruel. No, it is not hardness of heart on my part - it is my now understanding reality. The future apparently died long ago, she just forgot to tell me. So for now, get her healed and let God worry about the tomorrows. I also called the pastor to see if there is some Christian counseling network (hopefully working for low, low, low prices!). But, his son is getting married this week, so I do not really expect to hear back for a spell.
I got to see most of the kids during the day and that was pleasant. Son, whom had taken off with his girlfriend last year for father's day, stuck around this time - but no acknowledgement he even has a father. Youngest daughter gave me a date to Outback, with her - LOL! Oldest daughter, husband in tow, visited for a while and middle daughter promised to see me today. As for my daughter, she sent a very sweet text - which was the greatest gift of all, especially when one considers how far she has come and how closely we have bonded in such a short amount of time. Truly a blessing.
I had a good video afternoon: Megalodon, Giant Shark vs Giant Octopus, Mega Piranha and Stardust just before bedtime.
So time for me to get back to seeing how daughter's prescription refill is going, so I can get it mailed off to her!
Friday, June 15, 2012
The Hidden
I had lunch today with one of my readers. Yeah, I only know two of them in person, another 4 via the internet as friends for years. So yeah you are in my area and need lunch...... :^)
So got to talking about things that make us tick, which can be pretty humorous if I am involved. And about how can I be functional, when I am so obviously internally flawed. :^) Not exactly my most favorite subject, but it is okay due to the length of time I have known him - I felt safe enough.
Then he commented on how we each have something which we dare not let others know. We nibbled around this idea over dessert. And my mind roamed over the idea - something I would want NO ONE to know..... Something that would embarrass me to death..... Hmmmmmmmmm.
Yeah that is a problematic one.
There are certainly incidents from my life I would not want anyone to know. Stupid is as stupid does seems to define my youthful years. Plus, governments have long memories and like to hold people responsible for situations they were never involved in ..... (whatever did he mean by that .....?)
So, not too hard to figure out a few things there. As for who I am or what defines me, no I think I am pretty safe there. I try rather hard to be whom I am, so much easier than pretense and then trying to remember whom was told what.....
And interestingly, just this morning I was listening to a man recount how he had started his ministry based upon how all had become known about his life. It ended his marriage, family, friends, employment and basically life. But, he noted, that it also set him free (through embarrassment) to clean up his act and then reach out to other men struggling through the same areas in life. Of course, he also got to form all new relationships in his life.....
Since there are no coincidences ..... my mind continues to revolve around: is God telling me something? Am I just to blow off my family, take a walk and start all over? Or am I to be as innocent as possible across the next several years, so that when the inevitable comes, I can stand without condemnation? I wish I knew for sure what it is that God wants from me! But, I am going to guess the latter, unless God does something drastic.
So got to talking about things that make us tick, which can be pretty humorous if I am involved. And about how can I be functional, when I am so obviously internally flawed. :^) Not exactly my most favorite subject, but it is okay due to the length of time I have known him - I felt safe enough.
Then he commented on how we each have something which we dare not let others know. We nibbled around this idea over dessert. And my mind roamed over the idea - something I would want NO ONE to know..... Something that would embarrass me to death..... Hmmmmmmmmm.
Yeah that is a problematic one.
There are certainly incidents from my life I would not want anyone to know. Stupid is as stupid does seems to define my youthful years. Plus, governments have long memories and like to hold people responsible for situations they were never involved in ..... (whatever did he mean by that .....?)
So, not too hard to figure out a few things there. As for who I am or what defines me, no I think I am pretty safe there. I try rather hard to be whom I am, so much easier than pretense and then trying to remember whom was told what.....
And interestingly, just this morning I was listening to a man recount how he had started his ministry based upon how all had become known about his life. It ended his marriage, family, friends, employment and basically life. But, he noted, that it also set him free (through embarrassment) to clean up his act and then reach out to other men struggling through the same areas in life. Of course, he also got to form all new relationships in his life.....
Since there are no coincidences ..... my mind continues to revolve around: is God telling me something? Am I just to blow off my family, take a walk and start all over? Or am I to be as innocent as possible across the next several years, so that when the inevitable comes, I can stand without condemnation? I wish I knew for sure what it is that God wants from me! But, I am going to guess the latter, unless God does something drastic.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Travails of the Heart
Such a hard morning. I sent daughter off on a visit with her mother.
It tore at my heart to see her go through airport security and know that it will be a month until I see her again. But, I also know that she needs time with her mother, I knew that a month ago when I suggested she go. Even at the distance which separated us, I could see her walls were up, she was hurting. So unfair that she, whom has done nothing, should continue to be further harmed.
I would not be a father worthy of the name, if I had not suggested she not return. This environment of hatred we both have been forced to confront daily has been unacceptable. It has also made us stronger, to identify as family with each other, to stand in unison against my family.
It breaks my heart that my family has so hardened their hearts against her. Two of my daughters should have been supportive, they both were broken, they should have understood and wanted to aid in her healing.....
And though my mind would have her not return, my heart knows her place is with me for at least now. And her heart knows this as well. So, she will return. But, I wonder at her resolve to do so.
For me, I am at the end of my patience with my family. Personally, I would confront the lot of them and take them on now that daughter is gone. Come what may, they have as a lot lost my good grace. With father's day this Sunday, this maybe a convenient time to address their treatment of me and her. Yeah, that ought to really piss more than a few people off! But, yes, I will pray about this first though.
But, I think it is time to plan for a future without my family. If hatreds towards me, a lack of Christian compassion towards the injured and a hardness of heart - I do not understand - are to be the future of this family, then yeah..... I raised the lot of them to know far better than to behave in this manner. So, I maybe be confronting a God created situation ..... and if so, then I really do not understand the implications here.
Once back home, I got a hold her mother and told her to be gentle. Yesfir is exhausted, nervous, drained and to an extent afraid with reason - the present is weird beyond belief, the future uncertain. Please keep her in your prayers.
It tore at my heart to see her go through airport security and know that it will be a month until I see her again. But, I also know that she needs time with her mother, I knew that a month ago when I suggested she go. Even at the distance which separated us, I could see her walls were up, she was hurting. So unfair that she, whom has done nothing, should continue to be further harmed.
I would not be a father worthy of the name, if I had not suggested she not return. This environment of hatred we both have been forced to confront daily has been unacceptable. It has also made us stronger, to identify as family with each other, to stand in unison against my family.
It breaks my heart that my family has so hardened their hearts against her. Two of my daughters should have been supportive, they both were broken, they should have understood and wanted to aid in her healing.....
And though my mind would have her not return, my heart knows her place is with me for at least now. And her heart knows this as well. So, she will return. But, I wonder at her resolve to do so.
For me, I am at the end of my patience with my family. Personally, I would confront the lot of them and take them on now that daughter is gone. Come what may, they have as a lot lost my good grace. With father's day this Sunday, this maybe a convenient time to address their treatment of me and her. Yeah, that ought to really piss more than a few people off! But, yes, I will pray about this first though.
But, I think it is time to plan for a future without my family. If hatreds towards me, a lack of Christian compassion towards the injured and a hardness of heart - I do not understand - are to be the future of this family, then yeah..... I raised the lot of them to know far better than to behave in this manner. So, I maybe be confronting a God created situation ..... and if so, then I really do not understand the implications here.
Once back home, I got a hold her mother and told her to be gentle. Yesfir is exhausted, nervous, drained and to an extent afraid with reason - the present is weird beyond belief, the future uncertain. Please keep her in your prayers.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
The Seven Virtues
In the process of sniffing around in internet land, to learn more about the Seven Deadly Sins, I came across a list of the Severn Virtues. Interestingly, each corresponds inversely to each of the seven deadly sins. The are:
These were derived from the Psychomachia ("Contest of the Soul"), written by Aurelius Clemens Prudentius in about 410 AD. Entailing the battle of good virtues and evil vices. The tremendous popularity of this work in the Middle Ages helped to spread the concept of holy virtue throughout Europe. Practicing these virtues is considered to protect one against temptation from the seven deadly sins, with each one having its counterpart.
Chastity
Abstaining from sexual conduct according to one's state in life; the practice of courtly love and romantic friendship. Cleanliness through cultivated good health and hygiene, and maintained by refraining from intoxicants. To be honest with oneself, one's family, one's friends, and to all of humanity. Embracing of moral wholesomeness and achieving purity of thought-through education and betterment. The ability to refrain from being distracted and influenced by hostility, temptation or corruption.
Temperance
Restraint, temperance, justice. Constant mindfulness of others and one's surroundings; practicing self-control, abstention, moderation, and deferred gratification. Prudence to judge between actions with regard to appropriate actions at a given time. Proper moderation between self-interest, versus public-interest, and against the rights and needs of others.
Charity
Generosity, charity, self-sacrifice; the term should not be confused with the more restricted modern use of the word charity to mean benevolent giving. In Christian theology, charity—or love -- is the greatest of the three theological virtues.
Love, in the sense of an unlimited loving kindness towards all others, is held to be the ultimate perfection of the human spirit, because it is said to both glorify and reflect the nature of God. Such love is self-sacrificial. Confusion can arise from the multiple meanings of the English word "love". This love is distinguished by its origin – being divinely infused into the soul – and by its residing in the will rather than emotions.
Diligence
A zealous and careful nature in one's actions and work; decisive work ethic, steadfastness in belief, fortitude, and the capability of not giving up. Budgeting one's time; monitoring one's own activities to guard against laziness. Upholding one's convictions at all times, especially when no one else is watching (also known as integrity).
Patience
Forbearance and endurance through moderation. Resolving conflicts and injustice peacefully, as opposed to resorting to violence. Accepting the grace to forgive; to show mercy to sinners. Creating a sense of peaceful stability and community rather than suffering, hostility, and antagonism.
Kindness
Charity, compassion and friendship for its own sake. Empathy and trust without prejudice or resentment. Unselfish love and voluntary kindness without bias or spite. Having positive outlooks and cheerful demeanor; to inspire kindness in others.
Humility
Modest behavior, selflessness, and the giving of respect. Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it is thinking of yourself less. It is a spirit of self-examination; suspicion toward yourself and charity toward people you disagree with. The courage of the heart necessary to undertake tasks which are difficult, tedious or unglamorous, and to graciously accept the sacrifices involved. Reverence for those who have wisdom and those who selflessly teach in love. Giving credit where credit is due; not unfairly glorifying one's own self. Being faithful to promises, no matter how big or small they may be. Refraining from despair and the ability to confront fear and uncertainty, or intimidation.
Yeah, reading through these, not a bad thing to strive for.....
| Vice | Virtue | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Lust | Chastity | ||
| Gluttony | Temperance | ||
| Greed | Charity | ||
| Sloth | Diligence | ||
| Wrath | Patience | ||
| Envy | Kindness | ||
| Pride | Humility |
Chastity
Abstaining from sexual conduct according to one's state in life; the practice of courtly love and romantic friendship. Cleanliness through cultivated good health and hygiene, and maintained by refraining from intoxicants. To be honest with oneself, one's family, one's friends, and to all of humanity. Embracing of moral wholesomeness and achieving purity of thought-through education and betterment. The ability to refrain from being distracted and influenced by hostility, temptation or corruption.
Temperance
Restraint, temperance, justice. Constant mindfulness of others and one's surroundings; practicing self-control, abstention, moderation, and deferred gratification. Prudence to judge between actions with regard to appropriate actions at a given time. Proper moderation between self-interest, versus public-interest, and against the rights and needs of others.
Charity
Generosity, charity, self-sacrifice; the term should not be confused with the more restricted modern use of the word charity to mean benevolent giving. In Christian theology, charity—or love -- is the greatest of the three theological virtues.
Love, in the sense of an unlimited loving kindness towards all others, is held to be the ultimate perfection of the human spirit, because it is said to both glorify and reflect the nature of God. Such love is self-sacrificial. Confusion can arise from the multiple meanings of the English word "love". This love is distinguished by its origin – being divinely infused into the soul – and by its residing in the will rather than emotions.
Diligence
A zealous and careful nature in one's actions and work; decisive work ethic, steadfastness in belief, fortitude, and the capability of not giving up. Budgeting one's time; monitoring one's own activities to guard against laziness. Upholding one's convictions at all times, especially when no one else is watching (also known as integrity).
Patience
Forbearance and endurance through moderation. Resolving conflicts and injustice peacefully, as opposed to resorting to violence. Accepting the grace to forgive; to show mercy to sinners. Creating a sense of peaceful stability and community rather than suffering, hostility, and antagonism.
Kindness
Charity, compassion and friendship for its own sake. Empathy and trust without prejudice or resentment. Unselfish love and voluntary kindness without bias or spite. Having positive outlooks and cheerful demeanor; to inspire kindness in others.
Humility
Modest behavior, selflessness, and the giving of respect. Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it is thinking of yourself less. It is a spirit of self-examination; suspicion toward yourself and charity toward people you disagree with. The courage of the heart necessary to undertake tasks which are difficult, tedious or unglamorous, and to graciously accept the sacrifices involved. Reverence for those who have wisdom and those who selflessly teach in love. Giving credit where credit is due; not unfairly glorifying one's own self. Being faithful to promises, no matter how big or small they may be. Refraining from despair and the ability to confront fear and uncertainty, or intimidation.
Yeah, reading through these, not a bad thing to strive for.....
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
The Seven Deadly Sins
So, continuing on from the last post concerning The Deadly Sins, I thought it would be fun to look at the meaning for ones everyone is familiar with as being The List:
Lust
Is usually thought of as excessive thoughts or desires of a sexual nature. In Dante's Purgatorio, the penitent walks within flames to purge himself of lustful/sexual thoughts and feelings. In Dante's Inferno, unforgiven souls of the sin of lust are blown about in restless hurricane-like winds symbolic of their own lack of self control to their lustful passions in this earthly life.
Gluttony
Derived from the Latin, meaning to gulp down or swallow, this is the over-indulgence and over-consumption of anything to the point of waste. It is considered a sin because of the excessive desire for food and its withholding from the needy.
Depending on the culture, this can be seen as either a vice or a sign of status. Where food is relatively scarce, being able to eat well might be something to take pride in. But in an area where food is routinely plentiful, it may be considered a sign of self-control to resist the temptation to over-indulge.Greed
This is, like lust and gluttony, a sin of excess. However, greed (as seen by the church) is applied to an excessive desire and pursuit of wealth, status, and/or power. In Dante's Purgatory, the penitents were bound and laid face down on the ground for having concentrated too much on earthly thoughts. These include disloyalty, deliberate betrayal, or treason, especially for personal gain, for example through bribery. Scavenging and hoarding of materials or objects, theft and robbery, especially by means of violence, trickery, or manipulation of authority are all actions that may be inspired by greed.
As defined outside of Christian writings, greed is an inordinate desire to acquire or possess more than one needs, especially with respect to material wealth.Sloth
This term has greatly changed its meaning since Pope Gregory's time. It has come to be closer in meaning to the consequences of sloth rather than the cause. By the 17th century, the exact sin being referred to was believed to be the failure to utilize one's talents and gifts.
The modern view is laziness and indifference as the sin at the heart of the matter. Sloth is often seen as being considerably less serious than the other sins, more a sin of omission than of commission.Wrath
Or rage, may be described as uncontrolled feelings of hatred and anger. In its purest form, with self-destructiveness, violence, and hate that may provoke feuds that can go on for centuries. Wrath may persist long after the person who did another some wrong is dead. Feelings of anger can manifest in different ways, including impatience, revenge, and vigilantism.Wrath is the only sin not necessarily associated with selfishness or self-interest, although one can of course be wrathful for selfish reasons, such as jealousy. In its original form, the sin of anger also encompassed anger pointed internally rather than externally. Thus suicide was deemed as the ultimate, albeit tragic, expression of hatred directed inwardly, towards oneself, a final rejection of God's gifts.
Envy
Like greed, this may be characterized by an insatiable desire; they differ, however, for two main reasons:
- Greed is largely associated with material goods, whereas envy may apply more generally
- Envy resents that another person has something they perceive themselves as lacking, but also wish the other person to be deprived of it
Pride
In almost every list, pride is considered the original and most serious of the seven deadly sins, and the source of the others. It is identified as a desire to be more important or attractive than others, failing to acknowledge the good work of others, and excessive love of self. In perhaps the best-known example, the story of Lucifer, in his desire to compete with God, was what caused his fall from Heaven, and his resultant transformation into Satan.Monday, June 11, 2012
The Deadly Sins
If you are a long term reader, then you already know my mind does not travel the common road. Rather, it begins where something normal lives and then traverses a road of bizarre occurrences, eventually ending up with something not even related to the topic and usually humorous.
"Whatcha thinking?"
"Oh, nothing...." (....that you want to hear or would understand as coming from a logical thought process!)
Yeah.
So, something one in my Sunday School class said, brought to mind the Seven Deadly Sins, and I was instantly stymied trying to remember what they were. No idea how I got from Jonah to there, but it happened somehow and here they are!
From King Salomon's book of Proverbs 6:16–19 : the"six things the Lord hateth, and the seventh His soul detesteth.", namely:
So, just based on this alone, one would imagine that being Jewish is much easier! But, of course, being under the The Law (of Moses) was a much harder way to go, than compared to the relative freedom of being under Christian forgiveness. How so? Because, if you are a Christian and you are walking on His path, you are not going to be running into too many of Salomon's or Paul's list items.
Well, let me correct that - you will not be committing those items, you will be running into them constantly being committed by other Christians.....
We are our own worse enemies and somehow God finds it in His will to continue to forgive us.
Now as for the more normal list, you and I both may know as the, The Seven Deadly Sins.....
In 590 AD, Pope Gregory I (of the Roman Catholic Church) composed his list to form the Seven Deadly Sins. In the order used by both Pope Gregory and later by Dante, in his poem The Divine Comedy, the seven deadly sins are as follows:
"Whatcha thinking?"
"Oh, nothing...." (....that you want to hear or would understand as coming from a logical thought process!)
Yeah.
So, something one in my Sunday School class said, brought to mind the Seven Deadly Sins, and I was instantly stymied trying to remember what they were. No idea how I got from Jonah to there, but it happened somehow and here they are!
From King Salomon's book of Proverbs 6:16–19 : the"six things the Lord hateth, and the seventh His soul detesteth.", namely:
- A proud look.
- A lying tongue.
- Hands that shed innocent blood.
- A heart that devises wicked plots.
- Feet that are swift to run into mischief.
- A deceitful witness that uttereth lies.
- Him that soweth discord among brethren.
- Adultery
- Fornication
- Uncleanness
- Lasciviousness
- Idolatry
- Sorcery
- Hatred
- Variance
- Emulations
- Wrath
- Strife
- Seditions
- Heresies
- Envyings
- Murders
- Drunkenness
- Revellings
- "and such like"
So, just based on this alone, one would imagine that being Jewish is much easier! But, of course, being under the The Law (of Moses) was a much harder way to go, than compared to the relative freedom of being under Christian forgiveness. How so? Because, if you are a Christian and you are walking on His path, you are not going to be running into too many of Salomon's or Paul's list items.
Well, let me correct that - you will not be committing those items, you will be running into them constantly being committed by other Christians.....
We are our own worse enemies and somehow God finds it in His will to continue to forgive us.
Now as for the more normal list, you and I both may know as the, The Seven Deadly Sins.....
In 590 AD, Pope Gregory I (of the Roman Catholic Church) composed his list to form the Seven Deadly Sins. In the order used by both Pope Gregory and later by Dante, in his poem The Divine Comedy, the seven deadly sins are as follows:
Friday, June 8, 2012
Plague
I remember taking one spring holiday and visiting the church catacombs of the European districts hardest hit by the black plague when it sweep Europe. It was hard to relate to the millions of skeletons still in storage from those years. About two-thirds of Europe was disseminated. So, two out of every three you know, did not survive. Wow!
Hoof-in-mouth was the terror my dairyman great uncle greatly feared. I guess they had a problem in the 19th century he recalled very vividly! Of course we know this by the name of Anthrax, a nice weaponized virus. Sure hope you do not cross its path as it is completely fatal. I know that in the center of Russia is an area larger than most US States - completely devoid of life and off limits. Yeah, a little problem with some weapons grade Anthrax..... And for those of you whom are so insistent that there were no WMD's in Iraq, we have photos of 19 canisters of weapons grade Anthrax taken before the invasion. And where is it now?????
Why write about this stuff? Because the grand-kids were playing ring around the "rosie", the children's game from the middle ages, transmitting in a playful way - the signs of plague.
I have a little problem as well, it is called foot-in-mouth disease. It is the unfortunate result of being me. Open mouth, insert foot or feet as needed, discover the job of everyone being angry with you!
Hoof-in-mouth was the terror my dairyman great uncle greatly feared. I guess they had a problem in the 19th century he recalled very vividly! Of course we know this by the name of Anthrax, a nice weaponized virus. Sure hope you do not cross its path as it is completely fatal. I know that in the center of Russia is an area larger than most US States - completely devoid of life and off limits. Yeah, a little problem with some weapons grade Anthrax..... And for those of you whom are so insistent that there were no WMD's in Iraq, we have photos of 19 canisters of weapons grade Anthrax taken before the invasion. And where is it now?????
Why write about this stuff? Because the grand-kids were playing ring around the "rosie", the children's game from the middle ages, transmitting in a playful way - the signs of plague.
I have a little problem as well, it is called foot-in-mouth disease. It is the unfortunate result of being me. Open mouth, insert foot or feet as needed, discover the job of everyone being angry with you!
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Politics and Israel
One of my friends is off on an "Israel deserves to die" kick. He is probably the most liberal of all of my friends and were it not that I have known him since he was a child, yeah ..... well, I really get tired quickly of people whom just do not learn from history. Though he would call that, "my version of history".
His current kick is over the Israeli attack on the USS Liberty in 1967 ..... I remember the entire war effort with incredible clarity - because I was in Germany with news sources other than the US press. The reporting bias in the American Press was so strong and in such stark contrast to the non-US press that I had to wonder what the real definition of insanity was.
Things were a little weird that year in Miesau: father was suddenly deployed (as in he went to work and did not come back for months, we got a telegram saying he was okay but a whole load of manure had hit the fan), there was sudden "Green Police" activity in our town, and in the Pfaltz - where I lived - there was suddenly missing older Germans everywhere! What was going on? The ten teenagers put our heads together.....
What we pieced together was a fairly wide ranging conspiracy, dating back to WWII. When the war ended, the SS used its ODESSA organization to continue the fight for Germany into 1959, when the last of the "free" units were captured in Bavaria. (Didn't know the war continued for 14 extra years, did you?) The SS then shifted its activities overseas, with courting countries at odds with Israel. Egypt then was hurting over the kicking they had received from the Israeli's in the 1956 war and was very interested in a missile program. Troops had literally thrown their rifles at the Israeli's, rather than shoot them. Politicians wanted something they could control. There was a quiet attempt to acquire atomic warheads but the cost and secrecy could not be managed, so biological was the way to go. The SS could supply the manpower necessary for the rockets and the biological manufacture.
So, it is the summer of 1967 and all of Israel's neighbors attack. The US had deployed the USS Liberty off the Israeli coast, so obviously the US knew what was coming. The USS Liberty was an electronic surveillance vessel, its job to gather data on Israeli communications and intelligence, troop positions, etc. The US ignored the request to withdraw the vessel from Israeli waters and it did not take long for Israel to figure out that data being gathered was being shared with both Egypt and Syria, whom were both heavily infested with Israeli spies at the time. It is interesting that now, almost 60 years later, people are hollering about Israel's attack against what was now seen as an enemy craft in their waters.
Those whom do not understand that the Israeli people are still God's CHOSEN people, constantly make the same mistakes and stand against them, and God has no choice but to whack them. Those whom stand with his people are blessed, those whom stand against - not so much.
As for Egypt and the missiles? They never launched, thanks to some sabotage by the US military.
So what was going on? On the one hand, the US Navy was gathering intelligence and sharing it with Israel's enemies. On the other hand, the US deployed my father and many others from the ancient V-2 program to take out the rockets before they could be used. Is this a case of trying to be on the winning side, no matter whom wins, by the US politicians? Certainly, nothing surprised us in Europe concerning Lydon Johnson. We viewed him either was the most corrupt of all US presidents or the absolute stupidest man that ever existed. The local joke was, " How do you know when the President is lying? His lips are moving....." Unfortunately, true since we all got our news from non-US control press sources.
And the missing German's in the Pfaltz? Seems they were all SS members in hiding with some involvement with what had happened in the middle east. It really set my mind back a bit to realized that little old Hans, the shoe repairman, was SS and somehow involved. Where ever he escaped to, I hope he was safe. He had been a good friend and neighbor.
As for the USS Liberty, well, Israel never apologized that I heard and the US gave Israel nukes in 1967 for defensive use. So, apparently the US did recognize their involvement here. The Egyptian missiles were scrapped by treaty. Egypt switched to Russian supplied hardware and distanced themselves from the US. The Arab countries had taken an embarrassing licking. The stage was set for another confrontation, only this time in 1973. And interestingly, in 1972 is when the US started training me for a desert engagement..... All my friends were headed for jungles, I got to crawl with the rattlesnakes and scorpions. So, what did the US know about what was to come?
Make no mistake that God has His hand on His people. 1948, 1956, 1967, 1973 and 1991 were all occasions for those with understanding to witness the might of God against those whom stand against His people. Yes, He used flesh and blood but when a tiny army can win on four fronts simultaneously, we are talking miracle; and if we are talking miracles, we are talking God's intervention.
Taking a stand against Israel will draw God's wrath.
As a nation, we have been headed towards an anti-Israeli stance for quite some time. As a nation we will get a taste of God's wrath for this, but that does not mean you need to go down completely with the ship. Get on your God glasses and see the forces at work in this world! Take a pro-Israeli stand, support Israel however you can, you might just be needing some God sized fire insurance.....
His current kick is over the Israeli attack on the USS Liberty in 1967 ..... I remember the entire war effort with incredible clarity - because I was in Germany with news sources other than the US press. The reporting bias in the American Press was so strong and in such stark contrast to the non-US press that I had to wonder what the real definition of insanity was.
Things were a little weird that year in Miesau: father was suddenly deployed (as in he went to work and did not come back for months, we got a telegram saying he was okay but a whole load of manure had hit the fan), there was sudden "Green Police" activity in our town, and in the Pfaltz - where I lived - there was suddenly missing older Germans everywhere! What was going on? The ten teenagers put our heads together.....
What we pieced together was a fairly wide ranging conspiracy, dating back to WWII. When the war ended, the SS used its ODESSA organization to continue the fight for Germany into 1959, when the last of the "free" units were captured in Bavaria. (Didn't know the war continued for 14 extra years, did you?) The SS then shifted its activities overseas, with courting countries at odds with Israel. Egypt then was hurting over the kicking they had received from the Israeli's in the 1956 war and was very interested in a missile program. Troops had literally thrown their rifles at the Israeli's, rather than shoot them. Politicians wanted something they could control. There was a quiet attempt to acquire atomic warheads but the cost and secrecy could not be managed, so biological was the way to go. The SS could supply the manpower necessary for the rockets and the biological manufacture.
So, it is the summer of 1967 and all of Israel's neighbors attack. The US had deployed the USS Liberty off the Israeli coast, so obviously the US knew what was coming. The USS Liberty was an electronic surveillance vessel, its job to gather data on Israeli communications and intelligence, troop positions, etc. The US ignored the request to withdraw the vessel from Israeli waters and it did not take long for Israel to figure out that data being gathered was being shared with both Egypt and Syria, whom were both heavily infested with Israeli spies at the time. It is interesting that now, almost 60 years later, people are hollering about Israel's attack against what was now seen as an enemy craft in their waters.
Those whom do not understand that the Israeli people are still God's CHOSEN people, constantly make the same mistakes and stand against them, and God has no choice but to whack them. Those whom stand with his people are blessed, those whom stand against - not so much.
As for Egypt and the missiles? They never launched, thanks to some sabotage by the US military.
So what was going on? On the one hand, the US Navy was gathering intelligence and sharing it with Israel's enemies. On the other hand, the US deployed my father and many others from the ancient V-2 program to take out the rockets before they could be used. Is this a case of trying to be on the winning side, no matter whom wins, by the US politicians? Certainly, nothing surprised us in Europe concerning Lydon Johnson. We viewed him either was the most corrupt of all US presidents or the absolute stupidest man that ever existed. The local joke was, " How do you know when the President is lying? His lips are moving....." Unfortunately, true since we all got our news from non-US control press sources.
And the missing German's in the Pfaltz? Seems they were all SS members in hiding with some involvement with what had happened in the middle east. It really set my mind back a bit to realized that little old Hans, the shoe repairman, was SS and somehow involved. Where ever he escaped to, I hope he was safe. He had been a good friend and neighbor.
As for the USS Liberty, well, Israel never apologized that I heard and the US gave Israel nukes in 1967 for defensive use. So, apparently the US did recognize their involvement here. The Egyptian missiles were scrapped by treaty. Egypt switched to Russian supplied hardware and distanced themselves from the US. The Arab countries had taken an embarrassing licking. The stage was set for another confrontation, only this time in 1973. And interestingly, in 1972 is when the US started training me for a desert engagement..... All my friends were headed for jungles, I got to crawl with the rattlesnakes and scorpions. So, what did the US know about what was to come?
Make no mistake that God has His hand on His people. 1948, 1956, 1967, 1973 and 1991 were all occasions for those with understanding to witness the might of God against those whom stand against His people. Yes, He used flesh and blood but when a tiny army can win on four fronts simultaneously, we are talking miracle; and if we are talking miracles, we are talking God's intervention.
Taking a stand against Israel will draw God's wrath.
As a nation, we have been headed towards an anti-Israeli stance for quite some time. As a nation we will get a taste of God's wrath for this, but that does not mean you need to go down completely with the ship. Get on your God glasses and see the forces at work in this world! Take a pro-Israeli stand, support Israel however you can, you might just be needing some God sized fire insurance.....
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Watching You
Friday I had a meeting with the pastor to review where Yesfir is, I am trying to do the right thing and if I can't use my pastor then why be at this church?!?!?. In some regards it was very funny and in others a little frustrating. But, this is not about daughter for a change, it is about part of the conversation.
Now, as we talked he asked me about my emotional security in this relationship - his unstated concern - how close is Kris to going sideways? In order to answer that question, I had to confide my little problem of being a "perfect" sociopath. "Perfect" refers to the complete absence of what everyone else knows as emotion. Sort of like being dead on the inside, at least compared to those I know whom are - very emotive in my life. So, the pastor was a little taken back by this. Lets face it, a functional sociopath is not exactly a common occurrence. And so, just like the psychologist I had to be interviewed by back in December (you can find the story there), he wanted to know how it is that I can be functional.....
Yeah, something daughter tried to wrap herself around as well. I can pretend very well, but you would have to know me to understand the mental ability it takes to do this! How does someone with no emotion function? Well, God gave me a double dose of Discernment very early on in my Christian walk. Daughter thinks this has to do with the ability to protect myself - otherwise I would be perhaps not so functional!
So, pastor is thoughtful and comments at what can I know from Discernment? So, I listed off some standard stuff that did not impress him, so I continued with: I can tell you what separates you from God....
He jumped a little and with quite a shocked looked at me and said, "Really?". So I confirmed this and added that I only comment to a person on what I know if God leads me into the importance of commenting on this because He wants to reach out to them. Yeah, through the years there have been more than a few surprised people! It even led to a Rabbi coming to salvation - but first we had to battle through the Old Testament for three days and nights straight - before he could understand that he really had not gone crazy..... Thank you Paul for the Hebrew perspective!
The pastor quietly turned away from me at the table and for the rest of lunch would not look me in the face.
People tend to think of Discernment as some form of fortune-telling, or magic trick that some Christians can use to help direct the activities of other Christians. Little thought is given to the concept that this gift is communication from the Holy Spirit, whom is watching you, and whom does tell those whom He will about you - when it fits His purpose. So, should you meet me, know that secrets are sort of worthless around me. And if you know someone close to you with Discernment, then know that may well be true for them as well, about you.....
Yeah, one of those reasons to live your entire life in transparent honesty and love with one another, as well as, yourself.
Now, as we talked he asked me about my emotional security in this relationship - his unstated concern - how close is Kris to going sideways? In order to answer that question, I had to confide my little problem of being a "perfect" sociopath. "Perfect" refers to the complete absence of what everyone else knows as emotion. Sort of like being dead on the inside, at least compared to those I know whom are - very emotive in my life. So, the pastor was a little taken back by this. Lets face it, a functional sociopath is not exactly a common occurrence. And so, just like the psychologist I had to be interviewed by back in December (you can find the story there), he wanted to know how it is that I can be functional.....
Yeah, something daughter tried to wrap herself around as well. I can pretend very well, but you would have to know me to understand the mental ability it takes to do this! How does someone with no emotion function? Well, God gave me a double dose of Discernment very early on in my Christian walk. Daughter thinks this has to do with the ability to protect myself - otherwise I would be perhaps not so functional!
So, pastor is thoughtful and comments at what can I know from Discernment? So, I listed off some standard stuff that did not impress him, so I continued with: I can tell you what separates you from God....
He jumped a little and with quite a shocked looked at me and said, "Really?". So I confirmed this and added that I only comment to a person on what I know if God leads me into the importance of commenting on this because He wants to reach out to them. Yeah, through the years there have been more than a few surprised people! It even led to a Rabbi coming to salvation - but first we had to battle through the Old Testament for three days and nights straight - before he could understand that he really had not gone crazy..... Thank you Paul for the Hebrew perspective!
The pastor quietly turned away from me at the table and for the rest of lunch would not look me in the face.
People tend to think of Discernment as some form of fortune-telling, or magic trick that some Christians can use to help direct the activities of other Christians. Little thought is given to the concept that this gift is communication from the Holy Spirit, whom is watching you, and whom does tell those whom He will about you - when it fits His purpose. So, should you meet me, know that secrets are sort of worthless around me. And if you know someone close to you with Discernment, then know that may well be true for them as well, about you.....
Yeah, one of those reasons to live your entire life in transparent honesty and love with one another, as well as, yourself.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Stuff n Such
I think I will finally have enough money on Friday to buy my tickets to Timothy's wedding in July. When I looked online at prices back in April it was $1,200+ just for the airfare! Now, a month out, it has fallen to just under $900 for the same tickets! So, looks like I will make it. Found out that several I know will be there as well. So, might not be too lonely and a little fun!
At school I am definitely failing one of my classes. Sigh. I sank so much effort into it I damaged my other two grades! So, now in recovery mode: pass my core classes and work on the psycho class when the others are done. I can hardly wait to see if I can manage a passing grade or not in that one class on the final next week! Maybe, maybe no.....?
I am thinking, rather sorely, of not continuing my sunday school teaching. I love doing this but my private life is in shambles currently - so if I take my book of Timothy seriously, I need to be trying to salvage my family rather than teaching. Which is a little maddening. I love teaching, my classes require little prep time, so little would be freed up for more time trying to reach out to my family, and they are all adults whom are choosing very unwisely..... Sigh. Kris is following what God has demanded, the family is going at 90 degrees and I get to be punished for their sake, I guess.
Which brings me to - wondering what on Earth God is doing in my life? I keep having to drag myself back to just the basics of my life: do what God has told me to do! When ever I am thinking I have it all figured out, God throws a monkey wrench into my life and I am left standing there going, "What on Earth just happened?" It is like I can see what God is doing, everything is on track, and I get poked in the eye with a sharp stick! Ok, so maybe I misunderstood my GPS (God Positioning System) - recalculating! - I get my feet back under me, just in time to get broadsided by another sharp stick! And it is almost daily that Kris is having to rethink, readdress, re-value all things in his life. I am so worn down now that I have thought hard of just selling everything and taking a hike from life. But, I can not, I have something I have to do in a few years. The Kris, whom would run away, is not the man needed for that task in a few years. Though I think he is going to be a mighty worn out guy by then!
So a dreary, rainy, morning. I think I need tea.....
At school I am definitely failing one of my classes. Sigh. I sank so much effort into it I damaged my other two grades! So, now in recovery mode: pass my core classes and work on the psycho class when the others are done. I can hardly wait to see if I can manage a passing grade or not in that one class on the final next week! Maybe, maybe no.....?
I am thinking, rather sorely, of not continuing my sunday school teaching. I love doing this but my private life is in shambles currently - so if I take my book of Timothy seriously, I need to be trying to salvage my family rather than teaching. Which is a little maddening. I love teaching, my classes require little prep time, so little would be freed up for more time trying to reach out to my family, and they are all adults whom are choosing very unwisely..... Sigh. Kris is following what God has demanded, the family is going at 90 degrees and I get to be punished for their sake, I guess.
Which brings me to - wondering what on Earth God is doing in my life? I keep having to drag myself back to just the basics of my life: do what God has told me to do! When ever I am thinking I have it all figured out, God throws a monkey wrench into my life and I am left standing there going, "What on Earth just happened?" It is like I can see what God is doing, everything is on track, and I get poked in the eye with a sharp stick! Ok, so maybe I misunderstood my GPS (God Positioning System) - recalculating! - I get my feet back under me, just in time to get broadsided by another sharp stick! And it is almost daily that Kris is having to rethink, readdress, re-value all things in his life. I am so worn down now that I have thought hard of just selling everything and taking a hike from life. But, I can not, I have something I have to do in a few years. The Kris, whom would run away, is not the man needed for that task in a few years. Though I think he is going to be a mighty worn out guy by then!
So a dreary, rainy, morning. I think I need tea.....
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Musical Saturday Morning
When your father has been married eight times, one is likely to inherit a few step brothers along the way. Nicky disappeared in 1975 and a reader of this blog was nice enough to send me a newspaper clipping about what happened to him in 2007, at which point I had sunk a decade into trying to find out what had happened. Yeah, not likely to ever contact him, now that he is out of prison! Holy Cow, I thought I knew you guy!
Then there was Jeff, I used to babysit him after I was out of school for the day so his mother could do what ever..... He only made it to 18. He died pulling I stunt I had done numerous times - but he never got that idea from me! No really dumb ideas require teenage hormones, angst and complete lack of a sense of danger.
Then there was Larry whom is still a friend to this day. I will blame this month's selection on him, I had never even heard of the Police.....
Then there was Jeff, I used to babysit him after I was out of school for the day so his mother could do what ever..... He only made it to 18. He died pulling I stunt I had done numerous times - but he never got that idea from me! No really dumb ideas require teenage hormones, angst and complete lack of a sense of danger.
Then there was Larry whom is still a friend to this day. I will blame this month's selection on him, I had never even heard of the Police.....
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)