Got Manna? ... :) Shangy! >Here are the details on our Yahoo ShangyFunList: To Subscribe send a blank email to ShangyFunList-subscribe@yahoogroups.com To UnSubscribe send a blank email to ShangyFunList-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com Group home page: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ShangyFunList or Web Site: http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/ShangyFunList.html Group email address: ShangyFunList@yahoogroups.com or email me here: bcrsystems@earthlink.net ================ >-->In The 'Shangy' News :) .-----. ( #-...'`\ \ # | _ )"===="| _ (_`"======"`_) /`""""""""`\ | o _o\ ,_ | (_>| ___ {` `}__ \ '.___/--# _ _ ."` `"=, `;"` `"=, '. ;-._:'\ {_}:_`'=='` _,=="""=,\ / _.-'`\ )===\ <>_/ __ `'--.=" _.====, `| ; _.'` _.;` .---""`====`-'\__.' `| `'_(| ^.^ |)/ ;'` _.:_^} / ()\ / )';_'='_/.' _ .'=_._\___.-;`|| || _ \___..--' \_.-' .'` '.=/(__/` | _`-.=||_||_||_||_|/` | | () | / / o| \ \_/ .=`-`/ \\_/ ; ; /`-,_/ o| |-' /`-..-' ~~ |/ \ ()/ `(`___ o/__/ \_/` / \ '. / _`\ \`""` \ __ __\ \ '-./ __, _.'`\ `; || `'.'._ /-"// {{o '.'. //" // ( `\ \_ || ,/`-.`./ // {{ \/`.`.// // \ .-`\ `\ jgs `\\_/ `'-.// `\\_/ `'; o// \___) `._____.' `"` `"` >It's Official - Winter Just Blew In... From Texas Clear through the Heartland we all had to batten down the hatches. That wind storm that went through sure was a nasty one! Up to 65 MPH wind gusts with a steady flow of Sustained Winds OF 35 To 45 MPH had everyone holding on for dear life if out and about. We did plenty of complaining of the bitter cold too as Jack Frost did more then his share of nippin' at our noses here in Ohio! Texas was in the 50's and 60's F while we were in the 20's F. I hope you all made it through OK and are safe and warm today! It's a balmy 11F now with the high expected to climb to 15F here in Ohio. Everyone with animals, please be sure to keep them warm and throw some extra food out for the wild critters too if you can. Click FREE here... For Soup for hungry http://www.chunky.com/ClickForCansLanding.aspx For Food and other Donations: http://www.thehungersite.com/clickToGive/home.faces?siteId=1 -<>- *~* If You Haven't Already, Be Sure To Check Out Our 3 Newest Pages: The 2nd Commandment http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/2ndcommand.html Humor in Politics 3 http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/politics3.html Humor in Politics 4 http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/politics4.html Christ's Life http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/jesuslife.html -<>- >ALSO Check This Out From Our Friends At TruthOrTradition: The True Christmas story (according to the Bible) http://tinyurl.com/yftk2dz ============================================================== >-->From Heartwarmers: ,;;;;;, ,;;;;;;;;, ;;;'____ ; ;;;(\\\\\; `/'((||||| ___< C))|||| ,' \__(((||), | \ _)))))))\,_ /| |/"\`\`""""' |) ; \ \ ) \_____/_| | |\ \' _.,-' | | ' \ \.,-' _./ | ( _,-\ _.-'' | ; "'|___\__.-' ; ) |----| _.--,;' ; ,' , | ( __.,-' | ,' ,' `""'' `. | ; ) `, ( ) | ( ,' | | ( | | | | | | | |___________| | | | | Normand Veilleux based on work by Tua Xiong >THE LADY'S HUG by Teri Goggin-Roberts The traffic in town crawled. Shoppers walked faster than the bumper-to-bumper cars could move. "Just a few more blocks," I muttered. There was so much to do and the heavy traffic was wasting precious time. Mapes was one-of-a-kind store that sold hardware, sewing notions, corny greeting cards and household goods. It'd been a fixture in town for decades. The kids loved the toy aisle, which was stocked with board games, puzzles and "must-have" items like silly putty, jump ropes and slinkys. This visit to Mapes had special significance because Christmas was just weeks away. Frankie, Sarah and Caitlin took the opportunity to verbally add things to their Christmas list as they went along. A school yard sage had informed them that Santa had super-duper ears and that writing letters to the North Pole was old-fashioned. After shopping we walked back to the car. A station wagon was double parked next to the car in front of me. Pulling out would be tricky. The space was tight, the traffic was thick and now, I had to maneuver around the double-parked car. The kids had gained energy from the toy aisle and the back seat chatter was escalating. As I pulled out I heard a loud crunch. The car was suddenly silent. In the rear view mirror, three sets of eyes were wide with fear. "It's okay," I said calmly. "I'm just going to take a look." I got out and winced when I saw the cracked taillight and scratched paint on the other car. "Just a few more inches and I would've been clear," I mumbled. Unbelievably, my Jeep was unscathed. A woman climbed out of the station wagon. She was in her mid-sixties, with a brown hat that matched her knee-length coat. She surveyed the damage. Before she could say anything I blurted out an apology. "I'm so sorry! I thought the car was clear! The kids..." The woman smiled. I stopped mid sentence. The smile was unexpected and so I waited, unsure what would happen next. The woman's grin broadened as she touched her cracked taillight. "Merry Christmas honey." My confused look made the woman laugh. "I said, Merry Christmas honey. Don't worry about this here car. I'm fine and so are you. Go on and take care of those children. My husband will take care of this." I suddenly noticed a gray haired man standing on the passenger side, nodding and smiling. Overcome with relief, I hugged the woman. The woman hugged back and whispered, "Merry Christmas sugar." I got back in the car and watched the station wagon pull away. After hearing what happened, the kids chattered about how great "the Lady" was. The rest of the day took on a glow of grace because she gave us the gift of kindness. I was sure, although I'd never know her name, I would never forget her radiant smile. Days passed and Christmas drew nearer. One afternoon, Frankie seemed troubled when he came home from school. "What's up?" I asked as Frankie slumped on the couch. "Nothin'." Which, in boy-speak meant something. Frankie's feet kicked in an up and down rhythm that kept his body busy while his 9 year-old mind worked on an unnamed problem. "Care to share?" I sat next to Frankie, carefully avoiding the scissor-chop movements of his snow boots. "Nope." Frankie's feet stopped. "Maybe later." And then he was off to play. At bedtime, Frankie didn't want to sing any songs, which he loved to do in the weeks before Christmas. Something was definitely up. I rubbed Frankie's head and asked, "Wanna talk about what's bothering you now?" Frankie shrugged, but seconds later a question bubbled up. It was one of THE questions parents face. In the category of questions like, "Why do people die?" and "Where do babies come from?" "Mommy, do you believe in Santa Claus?" I silently prayed for the right words. Seconds later I saw the Lady's brilliant smile and felt her kindness wash over me. An idea came. "What do you think?" Frankie shrugged. "Some kids at school said Santa wasn't real. They said parents put the gifts under the tree." "Are you asking me if there is a Santa, or if parents put the gifts under the tree?" Frankie hesitated. "I guess I'm asking both." I wrapped my arms around Frankie and gave him a big hug. "I am so proud of you!" "For what?" Frankie looked puzzled as he sat up against his headboard. "You're old enough now!" I moved closer and continued. "You see Frankie, while there isn't a man in a red suit, there is something called the Christmas Spirit. But when children are very little, it's hard for them to understand the Christmas Spirit so we say that someone named Santa is responsible for Christmas. Parent's know when a child asks whether Santa is real that they're old enough to understand the Christmas Spirit." Frankie looked surprised. "What's the Christmas Spirit?" "The Christmas Spirit is love -- pure and simple. Every year, right around December, there's a special feeling in the air. People are kinder, they give to those who have little and spend time with friends and family. Have you noticed a change recently?" Frankie thought for a moment. "Everything seems prettier. People seem happier." "That's the Christmas Spirit at work. Do you remember the Lady at Mapes a few weeks ago?" Frankie nodded and grinned. "Oh yeah! She was so nice!" "She had the Christmas Spirit. She forgave me even though she didn't know me. She wished me a Merry Christmas and I can still feel that wish today. That's how I know she shared the Christmas Spirit with me. It's as real as if she'd given me a present with a pretty bow. The Christmas Spirit is a gift we all receive every year. And those who are most blessed, carry it with them all year." "I felt her Christmas Spirit too!" Frankie beamed. "Parents want their children to remember the gift of Christmas every year, so they put presents under the tree and say a man named Santa is responsible until each child asks the question you asked me tonight. Then they get to share the wonderful secret of the Christmas Spirit." "A secret?" Frankie's voice was hushed with awe. "Yes, now that you asked about Santa, I know that you're old enough to understand the Christmas Spirit. But until other children ask their parents, you shouldn't tell them there's no Santa because they may not be old enough to understand yet." "Oh, like Sarah is too young." Frankie nodded and winked. "I won't tell her I promise." "When people ask if I believe in Santa, I say yes. I absolutely believe that there is a Christmas Spirit that visits each house at Christmas. Does it matter whether that Spirit is wearing a red suit? Or what we call it?" Frankie shook his head. "Nope!" "So congratulations! You are officially old enough to start learning about the Christmas Spirit." Frankie crinkled his nose. "Start learning?" "Yep. It takes the rest of your life to figure out how to keep the Christmas Spirit in your heart all year long." "Like the Lady at Mapes." I hugged Frankie and felt the warmth and brilliance of the Lady's hug once more. "Yes Bud, just like her." -- Teri Goggin-Roberts __________________________________________________ Teri says "This is a true story about the day my son learned 'the truth' about Santa. Frank is now 22 and Sarah is 18 and both are still big fans of Santa! I have shared this story with many friends over the years who faced being asked The Santa Question. I hope it helps you too!" ================================================================== >-->From InspiredBuffalo: _.--._ \ ** / (<>) . ) ( . )\_.._/ /\ \_.._/( (*_<>_ _<>_*) )/ '' \ \/ / '' \( ' ) ( ' ( ) ) ( (<>) / ** \ /.-..-.\ >Cross in My Pocket Carry a cross in my pocket A simple reminder to me Of the fact that I am a Christian No matter where I may be. This little cross is not magic, Nor is it a good luck charm It isn't meant to protect me >From every physical harm. It's not for identification For all the world to see It's simply an understanding Between my Savior and me. When I put my hand in my pocket To bring out a coin or a key The cross is there to remind me Of the price He paid for me. It reminds me, too, to be thankful For my blessings day by day And to strive to serve Him better In all that I do and say. It's also a daily reminder Of the peace and comfort I share With all who know my Master And give themselves to His care. So, I carry a cross in my pocket Reminding no one but me That Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life If only I'll let Him be. Note: Jerry & Mary Chandler, have told me that A Cross In My Pocket was written by Mrs. Verna Mae Thomas of McGehee, Arkansas. According to these visitors, the poem is copyrighted © by her daughter, Lou Alice Thomas Evans, who has given permission to quote the poem. --- ...Check This One Out... Who is Jesus Christ http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/whoisjesus.html -<>- _ / | //|| // ); _ __ ,'',// ,-' ' `-. ((// ( ) )// ( / -')))o ,' / ( ( /() / / o ) / (/\ (,_( O(O / ' / > |/ `\. o/ (_ ._/ '. || \ _\ __,'() ,-|| `-( / /( | () () / ( `-',-.'`v/ )/_ |/O `-._( `." `-'\\ // `---.-'\ )\.O _ .' ) / `-. / |\/-.___,-./ | O| ' ( \ / |\\ / ( ;\ Y ,-'(\\) | ) ,-./ ( | ( \` | ,-' ./ -^_/-. `. _\ | ,' `-< ' ,' )\_ .\| |. | (),-. _,--. | | ' ; \ ,-` ))\ \ | \ _,' ; ( ,'/ ) |/,--\ ___))`-'` gpyy `-'-'~~~``---"" '"'"'` >A Mother's Prayer (Author Unknown) "Precious Heavenly Father, Give me patience when little hands tug at me with their many demands. Give me gentle hugging arms to help protect them from rebellions harm. Give me wisdom from above to teach these little ones of Your love. Give me strength, Your love not to spare that they may obey and live under Your care. Give me a spirit . . . quiet and meek let my words show kindness as I speak. Give me the ability to teach from the heart to help my children learn Your Word from the start. Give me the words You'd have me say to teach my children how to pray. Give me time, special moments to share that they may know, "Mommy really does care." Give me hands that work willingly a steadfast example that I may be. Give me courage to stand in Your might to teach my little ones to always do right. Give me boldness to do all these and more that I may not be ashamed when I stand at Your door. Thank You Father, In Jesus Name I pray, Amen." --- ...Check This Out... Christianity http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/christianity.html Cost Of A Child http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/costofchild.html Invisble Child http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/poems/invisiblechild.html Lean On Me http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/poems/leanonme.html Rules For Raising Children http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/rulesforchildren.html Last Day http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/lastday.html -<>- ,-.-. / ,-. \ ,-. ( |a a| ) ,-. : `( : o ; )' : ____|____(_.>-<._)____|____ (_| / \ |_) || : `.|,' : || '|___..--|_\_|_/_|-...___|' ; | /SSt\ | : / ; ;| ,'|`. |: : \ / /| /|;._____.:|\ |\ \ / ,' `' / ;| |: \ `' `. \ `' / / | | \ \ `' / / ; : \ \ / / /| |\ \ \ / / / | | \ \ \ / / / ; : \ \ \ / / / /| |\ \ \ \ ( / / / | | \ \ \ ) `(_ / / ; : \ \ _)' `'.(_./___\._).`' >To Believe Is To Know by Ali Ibrahim To believe is to know that every day is a new beginning. It is to trust that miracles happen,and dreams really do come true. To believe is to see angels dancing among the clouds, To know the wonder of a stardust sky and the wisdom of the man in the moon. To believe is to know the value of a nurturing heart, The innocence of a child's eyes and the beauty of an aging hand, for it is through their teachings we learn to love. To believe is to find the strength and courage that lies within us. When it is time to pick up the pieces and begin again. To believe is to know we are not alone, That life is a gift and this is our time to cherish it. -<>- Links for Your Enjoyment Court House Shooting Idiot http://www.buffaloschips.com/sfserfs.htm Cutest Plumber http://www.buffaloschips.com/hjsdkjs.htm Deer Jumps Cycle http://www.buffaloschips.com/safs.htm Drag Race Slomo http://www.buffaloschips.com/sdfwsew.htm Dry Retriever http://www.buffaloschips.com/sfew.htm To Subscribe send a blank email to: the-inspired-buffalo-subscribe@yahoogroups.com ==================================================================== .!, .!, ~ 6 ~ ~ 6 ~ . ' i ` .-^-. ' i ` _.|,_ | | / .-. \ | | '|` .|_|.| (-` ) | .|_|. / \ ___)_(_|__`-'__|__)_(______ /`,o\)_______________________o_( /_* ~_\[___]___[___]___[___[_[\`-. / o .'\[_]___[___]___[___]_[___)`-) /_,~' *_\_] [_[( ( /`. * *\_] [___\ _\ / `~. o \] ;( ( ; [_[_]`-' /_ * `~,_\ (( )( ;(; [___] / o * ~'\ /\ /\ /\ /\ [_[_] / * .~~' o\ ||_||_||_|| [___] /_,.~~'` * _\_||_||_||_||___[_[_]_ /`~.. o \:::::::::::::::::::::\ / * `'~.. * \:::::::::::::::::::::\ /_ o ``~~.,,_\=========\_/=========' / * * ..~'\ _|_ .-_--. /* o _..~~`'* o\ ( (_) ) `-.__.~'`' * ___.-' `----' ":-------:" hjw \_____/ >Secret Generosity Story Editor: by P. Fletcher Eric Justian Washington, USA Oh the times our young family returned to New York City from vacation with just enough gas and no money for tolls! In 1971 our tight budget nearly ended our family vacation early. We were 30 years old, and had saved up just enough to go camping for two weeks with our young boys, ages 7 and 3. Heading north from the city around midnight, the car suddenly died. We coasted to the side of the New York State Thruway. My NYC born and raised husband was new to driving and had no clue what might cause an engine to die. I dug a flashlight out of the camping gear and we looked under the hood together, blankly. Just then a trooper stopped. He radioed a tow truck and kindly stayed with us while we waited for it. After talking to us he gently broke the news that it was probably an alternator problem. We could expect to pay about $70. I'm certain my face must have mirrored my husband's stricken expression. We'd planned to spend not more than $100 for the whole camping trip. The repairs would end our family vacation. The kind trooper left when the tow truck arrived. The 50-ish driver towed us to the gas station he owned. He prepared to work on our car, "since your kids are asleep and I'm awake." We moved the kids into their sleeping bags and they and I slept on two tired sofas in the station. I needed to be well rested to drive us back to the city. My husband joined the owner in the garage to learn something about cars and engines. When my husband woke me I reached for my purse. But the station owner insisted my husband had done most of the work. He would accept only $10 "for parts". I drove north from there, both of us happy our vacation could continue, though we'd have to pinch pennies for two weeks. For the next seven years we stopped at that station whenever we were near: to get gas, to get a taillight fixed, whatever. The owner always remembered us and exclaimed over how much our sons had grown. The last time we were at the station, just before we moved away to the Midwest, I insisted on paying the old alternator bill. The owner laughed and said it'd been paid many times over from our years of stops. Then he told us the story of the kind trooper who had waited with us in the night. When the tow truck had arrived, the trooper had paid half the bill without our knowledge, and alerted the station owner to our dilemma. Our $10 contribution had been a token. We all laughed as the owner told us how hard it was to invent the white lie about my husband's help that night. I still fondly remember these two people, who helped my family when they didn't have to. =======HeroicStories======= >-->From Cup 'O Cheer: | + | /^\ + --=<-*->=-- + \·/ | ____ ... + .. ... | | |__,'[] `,__ _' `__ /\|/\ _' `___|_ []| ______|__ __|_ [] | /#\ |[] __| []| | | []| | | | # | | | | | | | | | '.,_#.- - ' . - · - ' - . . - ' - . _ . - ' - . _ _ MAY YOUR PATH ` ' /\|/\ ' ' /\|/\ /#\ LEAD YOU TO PEACE AND ' ' /#\ # ' ' # /\|/\ # HAPPINESS ' ' # /#\ # ' ' # EVERYONE ' ' #________ |OOShy >GOT MANNA? Then the LORD said to Moses, "Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you; and the people shall go out and gather a day's portion every day, that I may test them, whether or not they will walk in My instruction. Exodus 16:4 I love the Old Testament story of how God fed His people in the wilderness with bread that came down from heaven. It was called manna, a Hebrew word that actually means "what is it?", because the people did not know what it was. Manna was provided faithfully and lovingly by God for forty years. It sustained God's people during their wilderness wanderings (note: the wilderness is the desert). Without a doubt, manna was a daily miracle. It serves as a vivid picture of Jesus Christ who is "the bread that came down from heaven" (Jn. 6:41). Notice the symbolism: THE SWEETNESS - Manna was sweet to the taste. It was described in Numbers as "wafers with honey" (Num. 16:31). Jesus Christ is sweet. The Bible says, "Taste and see that the Lord is good" (Ps. 34:8). Don't ever get the idea that following Jesus is like taking bad medicine to get well. It is not. Walking with Jesus is sweet. It is a blessing, not a burden. It is a privilege, not a penalty. Jesus is not a joy stealer but a joy giver. THE LIFE - Manna was essential for life. If the people did not eat it, they would die. Jesus is essential to life. There is no life apart from Him. The Bible clearly tells us that "Christ is our life" (Col. 3:4). Too often we try to compartmentalize Jesus and make Him a part of our life. DON'T DO THAT! He is not just a part of life; He is the hub of the wheel, the chief cornerstone of all. Unless you and I build on Him, the rock of ages, we have no stability when the inevitable storms of life hit (Matt. 7:24-27). If you want to really enjoy life to the full, surrender everything in your life to His lordship. THE LONGING - Manna whetted the appetite for more. It was designed to satisfy and sustain until the people arrived in the Promised Land, that long awaited land that flowed with milk and honey. Jesus surely is sweet and wonderful, but knowing Christ in this life just whets the appetite for what lies ahead. God has so much prepared for those who love Him. Today, I know Jesus heart to heart. But there is coming a day when I will meet Him face to face. One day, faith will turn to sight, and I will enter into the joy of my Master. What a day that will be!! As John said, "Amen. Come Lord Jesus" (Rev. 22:20). WHAT ABOUT TODAY? Are you feasting on your relationship with Jesus? Are you seeking Him early, like the people gathered the manna early in the day? He rewards those who seek Him, so take time TODAY to seek the Lord and call upon His name. He is closer to you than the shirt on your back, and He is waiting for you to look to Him. author unknown as seen in Inspiration Plus --- ...Check out... You are The Only You God Has http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/onlyyougodhas.html Choose His Children http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/choosehischildren.html -<>- + * + + + `.!.' * + + -=x=- + .'!`. * + + ! * + + + + + * + * + ,-. * //"\\ + * + * // \\ * // = \\ + w w w + + //___o O \\ \O O O ||\_/|\|\ || + |\ `|\ '|\ _ ___||_Y_| \_\||_________|_\_|_\__|_\ hjw >BEING A WITNESS (by Morris Chapman, "Just One More Soul," SBC Life, October/November 2009, pp. 1-2) Note the words of Jesus in Acts 1:8--you shall be My witnesses--witnesses to the saving work of our Lord Jesus Christ! Note the examples of evangelism woven throughout the rest of the book: words like explaining, reasoning, testifying, preaching, persuading, demonstrating, teaching, proclaiming, heralding, and warning! What is the one thing each of these words has in common? In each instance, these were spoken words--spoken to individuals who were lost and in need of a Savior. Spoken with urgency. Spoken with passion. Spoken with confidence in the Lord's willingness to save all who would come to Him. Some believed. Some did not. The Apostles made no distinction in sharing the Gospel. They sought to win the lost at any cost. I think of Jesus telling the woman at Jacob's well that He is the Messiah and the water of life (John 4). I relate with the cry of the father of the child with mute spirit, "Lord, I believe, help my unbelief!" (Mark 9). I am challenged when I read of Andrew first finding his own brother Simon Peter and bringing him to Jesus (John 1). I smile as I hear Philip explaining the "Gospel according to Isaiah" to the Ethiopian eunuch in the Judean wilderness (Acts 8). I see Peter still wrestling to understand God's vision when a knock on the door leads him to tell the Good News to Cornelius and his household (Acts 10). I feel the passion of Paul as he shares his personal testi- mony of conversion and urges Agrippa to receive Jesus Christ as his Lord (Acts 26). I weep as I see Stephen heralding forth the Gospel even while the stones are striking his body (Acts 7).... This is the consistent testimony of the Book of Acts. The power of the Gospel flowed when the lips of the evangelists moved. Let me say that again--the power of the Gospel flowed when the lips of the evangelists moved. The human tongue is the switch that releases the power of the Gospel. When the tongue is silent, we are no more useful to the Kingdom than a stump in the forest. When the tongue is silent, we are like the sheer cliff face rising above the forest below--beautiful to behold, but aloof, inaccessible, revealing the glory of God's new creation in us, but ineffec- tive in proclaiming the Law of the LORD that alone is able to convert the soul. It is only when we open our mouths that we become His witnesses--and only then does the power flow! What is God's part in the salvation of the lost? Of course, He prepares the soil of the human heart to receive the Word of God. He sends the sunshine and rain. What is our part in salvation of the lost? To tell the Good News--intentionally, willingly, joyfully, courageously, faithfully, obediently...and most of all, prayerfully. It seems apparent to me that soul-winning is the ultimate spiritual discipline. We can pray...and never tell. We can read the Bible...and never tell. We can fast...and never tell. We can give...and never tell. We can attend...and never tell. We can meditate...and never tell. But the moment you open your mouth in witness, you are driven to pray, you are driven to know the Word more fully, you are driven to fast, you are driven to give, you are driven to attend, you are driven to meditate. as seen in Laugh and Lift -<>- ____ _ /////|\\ ``````\\\ `/` ))) \`, ((( `--- ,\\\ ,---/ )),))) / , `(( ((( `--. ) `__)) ________ | | ,-./\ \ _,-' \ \__,-. \ \,-' /`.__,-'_,-\ `-. / \____`--'____________ | \ Starshine >DADDY'S POEM author unknown Her hair was up in a pony tail, her favorite dress tied with a bow. Today was Daddy's Day at school, and she couldn't wait to go. But her mommy tried to tell her, that she probably should stay home Why the kids might not understand, if she went to school alone. But she was not afraid; she knew just what to say. What to tell her classmates of why he wasn't there today. But still her mother worried, for her to face this day alone. And that was why once again, she tried to keep her daughter home. But the little girl went to school eager to tell them all. About a dad she never sees A dad who never calls. There were daddies along the wall in back, for everyone to meet. Children squirming impatiently, anxious in their seats One by one the teacher called a student from the class. To introduce their daddy, as seconds slowly passed. At last the teacher called her name, every child turned to stare. Each of them was searching, a man who wasn't there. "Where's her daddy at?" She heard a boy call out. "She probably doesn't have one," another student dared to shout. And from somewhere near the back, she heard a daddy say, "Looks like another deadbeat dad, too busy to waste his day." The words did not offend her, as she smiled up at her Mom. And looked back at her teacher, who told her to go on. And with hands behind her back, slowly she began to speak. And out from the mouth of a child, came words incredibly unique. "My Daddy couldn't be here, because he lives so far away. But I know he wishes he could be, since this is such a special day. And though you cannot meet him, I wanted you to know. All about my daddy, and how he loves me so. He loved to tell me stories he taught me to ride my bike. He surprised me with pink roses, and taught me to fly a kite. We used to share fudge sundaes, and ice cream in a cone. And though you cannot see him. I'm not standing here alone. "Cause my daddy's always with me, even though we are apart. I know because he told me, he'll forever be in my heart" With that, her little hand reached up, and lay across her chest. Feeling her own heartbeat, beneath her favorite dress. And from somewhere there in the crowd of dads, her mother stood in tears. Proudly watching her daughter, who was wise beyond her years. For she stood up for the love of a man not in her life. Doing what was best for her, doing what was right. And when she dropped her hand back down, staring straight into the crowd. She finished with a voice so soft, but its message clear and loud. "I love my daddy very much, he's my shining star. And if he could, he'd be here, but heaven's just too far. You see he is an American Soldier and died just this past year When a roadside bomb hit his convoy and taught Americans to fear. But sometimes when I close my eyes, it's like he never went away." And then she closed her eyes, and saw him there that day. And to her mother's amazement, she witnessed with surprise. A room full of daddies and children, all starting to close their eyes. Who knows what they saw before them, who knows what they felt inside. Perhaps for merely a second, they saw him at her side. "I know you're with me Daddy," to the silence she called out. And what happened next made believers, of those once filled with doubt. Not one in that room could explain it, for each of their eyes had been closed. But there on the desk beside her, was a fragrant long-stemmed pink rose. And a child was blessed, if only for a moment, by the love of her shining star… And given the gift of believing, that heaven is never too far. They say it takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them, but then an entire life to forget them. Send this to the people you'll never forget and remember to send it also to the person that sent it to you. It's a short message to let them know that you'll never forget them. Take the time...to live and love. Until eternity… God Bless!! There must be many children in the same boat as this little girl, thanks to our servicemen and their families for the sacrifice they are making to keep our country Free. --- ...Check Out... The Christmas Story http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/christmasstory.html -<>- .---------. _ |:: [-=-] | | | |_________| |~| |_| ,;;;;, I\ ,__ ,;;;, __, ///\\\\\ I |{ / . . \ } / " \\|| I | ) ( _ ) ( \_= _/// I |{___'-. .-'___}\___ )_\ I ||~/,'~~~~~,\~~|'---(( \ I \ // \\ | \ \ \ I \/ // | | /-/ I (/ (/ | |/||\ I | | | | I | | |____/ I :-----_o_-----: || | I | /~~|===|~~\ | (( | jgs I || |===| || ||_/ /^\ "~ '^^^' "" ((__| >MAY GOD BLESS YOU THIS DAY...TO TOUCH SOMEONE! Years ago I visited a client who was dying from AIDS. He was in a hospital, carefully quarantined, and I had to wear special protective clothing, a mask and gloves. He looked terrible but managed a faint smile as I entered the sterile room. I walked over to his bed and held his frail, weak hand in mine. He began to cry. Except for needles and tests, no one had reached out simply to touch him in weeks. Have you ever noticed how important touching was in Jesus' ministry? It didn’t matter where He went, people would come for miles and miles...the sick, the lame, the blind, the deaf. All they wanted was just to touch Him...and Jesus let them. In fact, He touched them back. Throughout the Gospels it is very clear...there was power in the touching... power was coming from Him and healing them all. (Luke 6:19) This whole touching thing is still important. Try this. (Ok, look around and make sure no one is watching, but try it.) Extend your hands in front of you and slowly move them from side to side. What do you feel? Nothing. One hand never touches the other, never affects the other. There's no way to feel anything. This is the relationship many have with those around them, even family and friends. Now close your eyes. With only your index fingers, try just once to touch finger tip to finger tip. Difficult, huh? Now try it with your eyes open. It's easy when you can focus on what you're doing. And look what you've done. You've made contact. Suppose one hand belongs to another person. If you want to stay in touch, you have to work at it. You must move as the other person moves. Next open your hands and let each finger of one hand touch the same one on the other. This is different from the last time. There's more of a connection, more a feeling of what's going on with the other hand. If one moves from side to side, towards you or away, effort is still required to stay in touch but it's easier. There's even some assurance that might have been missing before. Now for something radical. Hold hands. Ah, everything changes. Suddenly one hand can feel if the other is warm or cold, strong or weak, old or young. Between people, you can tell if someone is solid and steady or trembling and afraid. And for the first time, you can sense compassion and commitment. It may even startle you, for you are becoming involved in another life...and now you must decide if you want to. There's something more to be learned here. It occurs when we're willing to move beyond simple contact and casual acquaintances. It's when we're willing to open our hands and wrap our arms around each other. Only when we embrace can we lift each other up and help each other stand. Only when we open our lives and become involved in those around us do we truly love one another. But we can't love others when we won't make the slightest contact or be with them as they move through life. We can't love others when we refuse to know when they're troubled, lonely and afraid. We can't love others when we won't stand by their side. And if we can't love others, we can't love God. The word often used in the New Testament for touch is from the Greek word haptoo. Generally it means to fasten onto, grasp or cling to. It isn't a casual touch, but something very determined. The origin of this word has to do with attaching or transferring fire to something, to kindle or set it ablaze, to give light, warmth and security, and in a way seen by others. It points to a familiar verse: You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16 Want to be encouraged today? When we touch someone, God touches us. Reach out. Let the light of God explode through you and shine in another person's life. See what happens. Change the world. Take care and be God's, Chuck as seen in A Note of Encouragement -<>- To SUBSCRIBE: Send an e-mail with SUBSCRIBE CUP O'CHEER in the subject line to cheer316@sc.rr.com. ========================================================= >-->Quotes & Thoughts: Honesty...the feeling that you never need to hold back. Peace...in being accepted for who you really are. Beauty...in outlook more than appearance. Freedom...to be yourself, to change, and to grow. Joy...in every day, in every memory, and in your hopes for the future. Love...to last a lifetime, and even beyond. --D.L. Riepl It's easy enough to be pleasant When life goes by like a song. But the man worthwhile, Is the man who can smile When everything goes dead wrong. ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 8888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888 88 * _,_, * * * * * * 88 88 * * / | \ __ ,__ ,__ , 88 88 * * ( | )/__) | '| '/ | * * 88 88 \, / \__, | | \__| 88 88 * * * * | * * 88 88 * * _ * ,~ | 88 88 * _)\_ * * ('v)_, * 88 88 * ) \(___ * (/\(``/ 88 88 * `)oO' `. * \/_>' * * 88 88 * _j_ _j_ ,-^^-. * 88 88 * ,' _____ `y \ * 88 88 * `.,'^ ^`.,| | * * 88 88 * * / Q _ Q \|__..__| 88 88 : . /,' . ; || * * * 88 88 * * * \ `Oo.oO' / || * 88 88 ( `-.___.-'`. || * * 88 88 * * * /`.__, \ _`.|| * 88 88 * // `---)_ )| * * 88 88 * ,'/ O (_____(-i * * 88 88 * * ( | o `````|__) 88 88 * `| Q ||| * * * 88 88 * | ||| * 88 88 * * \ ///\\ * * * 88 88 * * \ / `==' * 88 88 ------`- -'-----hjw------ 88 88 __ , , 88 88 / `|_ .__ * _ |_ ._ _ __, _ 88 88( | \ | ' |` / \ | | | \ / | / \ 88 88 \__,| / | | _/,_/ \_,| | / \__|,_/,_/ 88 88 88 8888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888 '''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''' >Updated FUN STUFF URLS - Oh Yeah :) Shangy! --------------------------------------------------------------------- http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/urls.html FUN URLS --------------------------------------------------------------------- -->This is for all you who love food and DARRE to make it at home Yep. You guessed it - Recipes. These are Tried and True, Yummy to the Tummy, good old fashioned home cooking recipes that are EASY to do :) Visit Shangy's Easy-Does-It Home Recipes: http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/easy.html Home Recipes >Got A good Recipe? SHARE IT HERE: Share A Recipe ************************************************************************ >TO SUBSCRIBE: Visit Here This Weeks regular Shangy emails OR For the Yahoo ShangyFunList: To Subscribe send a blank email to ShangyFunList-subscribe@yahoogroups.com ************************************************************************