Happy Blessed Valentine's Day ... :) Shangy! >Here are the details on our ShangyFunList: Group Web Site: http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/ShangyFunList.html Group email address: bcrsystems@earthlink.net ================ *~* Please Consider Giving To ShangralaFamilyFun.com :) The cost of the website has gone up dramatically due to the ever increasingly wonderful pages and photos being added each week to entertain you and our fellow Christian families. If every one would chip in $25 or more, we'd be good for the whole year! So Please - I need your help today! "We are each of us angels with but one wing, and can only fly by embracing each other" -Luciano Decrescenzo ~ CALLING ALL CARING ANGELS ~ *~* WE NEED CARING And SHARING Angels *~* >Do You Want To Be A Shangrala Angel? If you'd like to help and be counted as a Shangrala Angel, the easiest way to do that is through online giving. It is easy to use, and most of all, it is secure. Please visit the site, scroll down and click on the donate button. A Secure PAYPAL form page comes up. NOTE: Paypal will generate a 'Quantity 1' and 'Price per item' form. Just ignore the price per item and put whatever it is you desire to give in there. With Paypal, you will have your normal receipt for your 'payment' donation in USD (United States Dollars). You can put a memo in there if you'd like. Any amount is greatly appreciated and needed! PLEASE Visit Shangrala to Help: http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/index.html OR If you'd rather send us a donation, Please MAIL it here: Elrhea Bigham 502 S. Harrison Van Wert, OH 45891 *~* THANK YOU! MAY GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY FOR YOUR GIFT! ================ *~* A REMINDER: PLEASE Send me sweet, interesting, funny, inspiring, family type forwards ANY TIME here... bcrsystems@earthlink.net I Need them, Love them, Use them, and Share them! THANK YOU!! AND For Facebook Users: Please Like Me here... http://tinyurl.com/cma6all AND Please Share This email with All Your Friends And Family! ^~^ May God SUPER BLESS You As You Do! THANK YOU! ================ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ \ / /` \/ `\ \ / /` \/ `\ \ / /` \/ `\ \ / '. .' \ / '. .' \ / '. .' \ / '. .' \/ '. .' \/ '. .' \/ '. .' \/ _ _ \/ \/ \/ _ _ /` \/ `\ /` \/ `\ \ / \ / '. .' H A P P Y V A L E N T I N E' S D A Y '. .' \/ \/ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ \ / /` \/ `\ \ / /` \/ `\ \ / /` \/ `\ \ / '. .' \ / '. .' \ / '. .' \ / '. .' \/ '. .' \/ '. .' \/ '. .' \/ jgs \/ \/ \/ *~* Wishing You A Blessed, Safe And Happy Valentine's Day Weekend! :) Valentine Index! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/valentineindex.html -<>- >-->2 HOT Off The 'Shangy' Press :) This sizzling hot new page is from our friends Linda, Melinda and Geniann. It's one that will give you your aww quota for the day and give you another reason to love God's amazing creation. Be sure to give this and its video a little time by visiting here: /\ /\ Todd Vargo //\\_//\\ ____ \_ _/ / / / * * \ /^^^] \_\O/_/ [ ] / \_ [ / \ \_ / / [ [ / \/ _/ _[ [ \ /_/ World's Smallest Fox http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/fox.html --- ...And maybe the cutest one too! Thanks My Friends! Our next smoking hot new page is from our friend Linda. It's heartwarming for those who are sentimentally inclined. A husband made a wonderful legacy that will last for years to come for his beloved wife. Be sure to visit the page and watch the sweet video here too: _____ _____ ,ad8PPPP88b, ,d88PPPP8ba, d8P" "Y8b, ,d8P" "Y8b dP' "8a8" `Yd 8( " )8 I8 8I Yb, ,dP "8a, ,a8" "8a, ,a8" "Yba adP" `Y8a a8P' `88, ,88' "8b d8" Normand "8b d8" Veilleux `888' " Husband's Love Story! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/husbandslove.html --- ...Aww, how touching! Thanks Linda! =========================================================== >-->From Heartwarmers: ,;;;;;;\ ,;;;;;;, ,;;;@@@@@/ /;;@@@@@;;;, ,;;;@@,;;;\ \,@,;;;,@@;;;, ;;;@@;;;' '\ \;' ';;;@@;;; ;;;@@;;; / / ;;;@@;;; ;;;@@';;, \ \ ,;;'@@;;; ';;;@@';;,\ \;;'@@;;;' ';;;@@';/ /'@@;;;' jgs ';;;@/ /@@;;;' ';/ /;@;;' \;' >A BROKEN HEART by Bob Perks She walked into the room and his eyes lit up. She didn't have to say a word. Just being there was proof enough that she loved him. They had both lost someone they loved. So this day, of all days, was a difficult one. She wanted to make this work. She was hurt, lonely and afraid. It wasn't supposed to be this way. But the fact was he knew how she felt. There was an obvious pain in his heart, too. So the one thing that strengthened their love for each other was heartache -- the most sorrowful kind. Their eyes locked. He smiled and she responded. He had a special way of bringing a smile to her face. It was the little things he would do that would touch her heart. But we all know that the essence of true love and commitment is in the little things. She stood there in the doorway and he motioned to her to sit next to him. Not trusting the childish grin he now had on his face, she hesitated for a moment, but gave in. She always did. She sat at the far end of the couch teasing him, he quickly responded by sliding right next to her. She laughed and he knew it was alright. He seemed to be stumbling for just the right words. There was an awkward moment of silence between them. In an effort to calm his nerves she reached over and held his hand. He looked at her with a grateful smile and returned the favor by placing his hand on hers. They looked at each other again, somehow knowing that this was a difficult time for both of them. Then suddenly he reached behind the pillow placed strategically nearby. He pulled out a large red envelope and nervously handed it to her. She snapped back with a look of surprise because she really hadn't expected this. "Wait, this goes with it," he said. Then he handed her a small box, wrapped perfectly in white tissue paper of hearts and flowers. She couldn't believe what was happening. How could he have pulled this off? And why? "Now," he said, "read the card." In great anticipation she ripped the envelope without hesitating. She wanted desperately to see what he had to say to her. She hung on every word. It read as follows: I know that this isn't easy for you. It has been a tough year for both of us. I know that Valentine's Day is a special day for people in love. I am sure that you would rather be out at a fancy dinner, I'm sorry. But I want you to know that... I love you. I know that Valentines are supposed to get chocolate. I went to the store today to buy some for you. I got the last piece. I told the clerk it was just perfect. She stopped for a moment and looked at him. Her eyes sparkled in the light as tears formed in each corner. He knew he had done the right thing. Slowly she unwrapped the box, careful not to rip the paper for she was sure that this was a keeper, a moment she will never forget. Removing the lid she found a chocolate heart that was broken into pieces along with a note: The lady said all she had left was a broken heart. I told her so did we. I am so sorry that Dad left us, Mom. But I just wanted you to know we still have each other. Happy Valentines Day, Love, Your son, Adam -- Bob Perks ___________________________________________ Bob is a Heartwarmer Gem and a professional speaker, author, and vocalist. =========================================================== >-->From Daily Encounter: >A Story of Friendship [Edited] , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' “Greater love has no one than this; to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."1 “Out of the furnaces of war come many true stories of sacrificial friendship. One such story tells of two friends in World War I, who were inseparable. They had enlisted together, trained together, were shipped overseas together, and fought side-by-side in the trenches. During an attack, one of the men was critically wounded in a field filled with barbedwire obstacles, and he was unable to crawl back to his foxhole. The entire area was under a withering enemy crossfire, and it was suicidal to try to reach him. Yet his friend decided to try. Before he could get out of his own trench, the sergeant yanked him back inside and ordered him not to go. "It’s too late. You can’t do him any good and you’ll only get yourself killed." A few minutes later, the officer turned his back, and instantly the man was gone after his friend. Shortly after he staggered back, mortally wounded, with his friend, now dead, in his arms. The sergeant was both angry and deeply moved. "What a waste," he blurted out. "He’s dead and you’re dying. It just wasn’t worth it." With almost his last breath, the dying man replied, "Oh, yes, it was, Sarge. When I got to him, the only thing he said was, ’I knew you’d come, Jim!" One of the true marks of a friend is that he is there when there is every reason for him not to be, when to be there is sacrificially costly." What a beautiful story of friendship. One might think that this type of friendship is close to impossible to come by, and these days it might be a little harder as our society becomes more focused on self than others. However, this is the friendship that Jesus offers us every day! He gave His life on the cross and offers His gift of true and meaningful friendship to each of us. All we must do is accept it. Once we experience Christ in our lives and enjoy a personal relationship with Him, we can than be this type of friend to others. A friend who is there in the good times, but even more so in the difficult times. Our world needs more examples of selflessness and sacrificial friendship that doesn’t seek its own well-being, but seeks to bless others instead. Let the example start with us. Suggested prayer: “Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for being more than my friend at all times. You love me unconditionally and accept me just as I am. However, you also love me so much that you want me to grow and reach the potential you have for me, so you challenge me to take steps in courage and faith. What’s even better is that you walk with me every step of the way. I never have to worry about being alone because you are true and one who is with me always. Help me to follow your example and be this type of friend to others as well. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer, Jesus, amen." 1. John 15:13 (NIV). When copying or forwarding include the following: "Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2016 ACTS International. =========================================================== _.-"""""'. .;__ `\ / `\ | ;a/ a `'. _ | ,_ |/_ _) / .-.-. {(}`\ \.___, \.' | | '--''-.( \_ _ / \ / .-\_ _."-.... ;_ ` .-.-. _/ '--. \ | | ."\ _/\ , | \ / / \_.' /'./ ; ` \__.' '-./ ' / __/ `\ / .' ``""--..__\___/ / | | , | \ ';_ / \ \`'-...-' \ \ | __ \ \ /-----; '. .--\_.-"\ | \ jgs / |._______|\ \ \_____,__/ '.__| >-->From The RAK: (random act of kindness) From today through the 15th, The RAK Foundation is challenging every American to do something truly amazing: Perform at least 1 random act of kindness every day this week. This can be for a family member, a coworker, or even a stranger you never see. It doesn’t really matter what you do… the simplest acts of kindness can make such a big difference. Most people think you need to spend money to perform an act of kindness…but there are plenty of things you can do besides pay for the coffee of the person behind you…things like: 1. Send an anonymous compliment. Disguise your handwriting and jot down a few kind words about a friend or family member. You can mail them a card or leave them a post-it…it doesn’t have to fancy, just genuine. 2. Talk to someone new. If there’s someone in your office who you haven’t really spoken to before, this week is the perfect excuse to change that. Extend a few kind words to them, and try to get to know them a little bit — you never know what a difference 1 kind word can make in someone’s day. 3. Let the person behind you check out before you. Even if you only have one or two things. This may seem simple, but it means leaving the store just a few minutes faster -which means you’re giving them just a few minutes more to spend with their family and friends. 4. Park farther than usual. This may not seem like a random act of kindness, but if you park further away than you usually do, you’re saving that premium spot for someone else. 5. Smile at a stranger. Mother Teresa once said “We shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do”. You never know what kind of day someone is having — or how much a smile from a stranger can brighten their day. There are a lot of ‘holidays’ out there: Pie Day, National Peanut Butter Day, International Square-dancing Month, National Karaoke week... you can find something to celebrate every single day of the year. These holidays are fun to celebrate and help pass the time…but that’s really all they are. But this week celebrates something I really believe in: Paying it forward. It doesn’t take much to complete a random act of kindness, but it tends to cause a ripple effect, touching not just the person you reached out to, but everyone they come in contact with. So by reaching out to just 1 person, that kindness will eventually ripple out to 100 people… That’s why as far as I’m concerned, we should be celebrating Random Acts of Kindness Week all year. I know we can’t always focus all of our attention on passing on kindness to others... but if we all take the time to reach out every once in a while, the world will be a much more beautiful place. Stay Healthy, Stay Happy Craig Cappetta PS. For more information & ideas for RAK week, check out the official website. https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/rak-week --- ...Also Check out... Random Acts Of Kindness http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/actsofkindness.html Pay It Forward http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/payitforward.html The Blue Ribbon http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/blueribbon.html Sweet Humanity http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/sweethumanity.html RAK Stories: https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/kindness-stories =========================================================== >-->From Archives InspiredBuffalo: .o##o. .o##o. ######o.o###### ############### .o88o. .o88o##########' 888888o.o888888########' 888888888888888######' '8888888888888'#####&o. .o&&o. '88888888888' '#&&&&&o.o&&&&&& '8888888' &&&&&&&&&&&&&&& '88888' '&&&&&&&&&&&&&' '8' '&&&&&&&&&&&' H A P P Y '&&&&&&&' v a l e n t i n e'&&&&&' D A Y '&' >SYNCHRONIZATION It's the classic burglary scene... "OK, let's synchronize our watches." Why? So that two or more activities coincide to make them work together, which is much more effective than if they unravel separately. Spirituality is a lot like that burglary scene. It works best when we synchronize ourselves to His commandments. Things just work smoother when they run on-schedule. Of course, not everything works according to plan because of yielding to temptations or this or that, and one must be prepared to manage those situations. But wouldn't it be wonderful if those times were a little fewer than they are now, because of synchronization? Get synchronized! -Malladi Venkata Krishna Murthy --- , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' ...See these great teachings... The Law Of Believing Index http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Believing/Believing.htm The Synchronized Life - What We Believe = What We Are http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Believing/The_Synchronized_Life.htm -<>- === (`\,;+++;,/`) (- (((^.^))) -) (- ))\-/(( -) (- (() ()) -) \ `/`@`\` / \ / \ / \/ \/ / \ /_/_/_|_\_\_\ ldb >The Apprentice Angel by Guy Finley One day, a little angel who wanted to be a big angel was spending some time with a more seasoned angel. They were invisibly walking down a busy city street, and the older angel said to the apprentice angel: "Would you like to hear something amazing?" The little angel said, "I don't know," because he knew that whenever the older angel asked him things like this, he was about to receive a certain spiritual shock. The little angel finally said, "Well, all right, what is it?" They proceeded down the street and into a little coffee shop, and in there was a man drinking his coffee. As the two angels took a seat, in walked a devil (also moving about invisibly). The devil sauntered in and sat right next to the man drinking his coffee. The little angel knew that he was getting close to the lesson at this point, and the senior angel said, "Come on over here." Now, angels can see devils but devils can't see angels, so this devil couldn't see the two angels watching him. If he could have seen them, then he never would have done what he was about to do, because everything that angels learn about what devils are doing gives angels the opportunity to teach human beings how to be smarter than devils. So, this devil leans over to the man sitting there in the coffee shop, and the angels lean forward to hear something that the devil whispers into the man's ear. The little angel falls back and says, "Ah ha! I see now. This explains so much." The senior angel confirms, "That's right." What the little angel heard the devil whisper in the man's ear was this: "Take this pain and pass it along." With those words, the devil gave that man a little bit of pain. The angels followed the man as he walked down the street. When he got to his car, he found that somebody had parked his car too close to his, making it very hard for him to get out of his parking space. A string of oaths came out of the man's mouth as he contemplated banging his car into the offending car. Then, just as he lets out that stream of violent energy, a woman walking down the street nearby -- who actually didn't hear what the man said -- did exactly what the devil had told the man to do, which was to "take this pain and pass it along. " That woman picked up the man's pain and never even knew it, never saw it, never felt it go into her. The moment that pain entered into the woman walking down the street, she looked in a store window and saw a co-worker who had said something to her yesterday. Now she knew why she was in pain because there was "the idiot that made her feel that way." The woman in the shop looked out and saw the woman looking in with a scowl on her face (that she didn't know she had on her face), and felt the pain that woman was passing along to her. The minute the woman in the store felt it, she began to think of her son who had gotten bad grades and who continued to resist the education that was necessary, and she made up her mind that when she got home, she was going to "ground him and really show him something"... and to the devil's delight, the pain was passed along endlessly to unsuspecting human beings. -<>- .oOOo. .oOOo. .oO:::::Oo.oO:::::Oo. .oO::o88o::o::o88o::Oo. oO::888888o:o888888::Oo oO::888888888888888::Oo 'oO::8888888888888::Oo' 'oO::88888888888::Oo' 'oO::8888888::Oo' 'oO::88888::Oo' 'oO::8::Oo' jgs 'oO:Oo' 'O' Planting If you plant honesty, you will reap trust. If you plant goodness, you will reap friends. If you plant humility, you will reap greatness. If you plant perseverance, you will reap victory. If you plant consideration, you will reap harmony. If you plant hard work, you will reap success. If you plant forgiveness, you will reap reconciliation. If you plant openness, you will reap intimacy. If you plant patience, you will reap improvements. If you plant faith, you will reap miracles. But If you plant dishonesty, you will reap distrust. If you plant selfishness, you will reap loneliness. If you plant pride, you will reap destruction. If you plant envy, you will reap trouble. If you plant laziness, you will reap stagnation. If you plant bitterness, you will reap isolation. If you plant greed, you will reap loss. If you plant gossip, you will reap enemies. If you plant worries, you will reap wrinkles. If you plant sin, you will reap guilt. , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' WHY? Because it is a Law set up by God Almighty... Gal.6: [7] Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. [8] For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. [9] And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. [10] As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. -<>- >First Class Apology (By Pastor Fred Rabinovitz, Olympia, WA) A Pastor and his wife needed to fly to several cities, so to make the itinerary easy, they chose to fly with the same airline. This turned several 50 minute flights into 4 hour flights because of the layovers due to infrequent connecting flights. In the midst of one of these layovers, the wife went up to the counter to get their boarding passes. After reaching the counter, she turned to her husband and said, "Honey, they need to see our ID's." "Why," he responded "they checked them when we entered the terminal." When she called back to him that it was the regulations, he barked, "Well, that's dumb!" Right then he heard the Lord say to him, "Now, that was dumb." After this, the Pastor argued with God about apologizing for about 15 minutes. Finally he went up to the counter and asked for forgiveness before boarding the airplane. "We get yelled at a lot, but no one's ever come up and asked for forgiveness before," said the surprised woman behind the counter. After boarding the plane and taking their seats toward the rear of the plane, a stewardess came up to the Pastor and his wife and informed them that they were in the wrong seats. She brought them up and seated them in First Class. The woman behind the counter had moved their seats because of the heartfelt apology. God wants to take us First Class, but how many times have we settled for coach because of our own actions and responses to God's trials? -<>- _ _(_)_ wWWWw _ @@@@ (_)@(_) vVVVv _ @@@@ (___) _(_)_ @@()@@ wWWWw (_)\ (___) _(_)_ @@()@@ Y (_)@(_) @@@@ (___) `|/ Y (_)@(_) @@@@ \|/ (_)\ / Y \| \|/ /(_) \| |/ | \ | \ |/ | / \ | / \|/ |/ \| \|/ jgs|// \\|/// \\\|//\\\|/// \|/// \\\|// \\|// \\\|// ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ >The Broadcasting Station George Washington Carver observed, "I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in." But it is sometimes hard to hear the message when it is broadcast by equipment that is dirty, corroded and abused. Carver was born 150 years ago, before we used terms like toxic waste, air pollution, global warming and deforestation. Today, we have figured out that we need to take good care of the broadcasting station if we are to hear what the Divine is saying. This is a beautiful and fragile planet we live on. As much as we can fall in love with magnificent sunsets and pristine landscapes, few people have ever experienced its beauty as acutely as those who've seen it from afar. Senator Jake Garn was one of those privileged people. He observed earth aboard Discovery Space Shuttle and wrote of that experience in "Parade Magazine" (11-3-85). "I know now what if feels like to be out of this world," he said. "The experience is exhilarating, breathtaking, awesome. No. Those words aren't strong enough; space flight is indescribable." Listen to these words from his space diary: "I was overcome by the beauty of the earth below. I don't think the words exist to convey what it's like to see the earth from space. The curve of the earth, the swirling eddies, the patterns of clouds marbling the surface above the brilliantly blue color of the water and the blue-green of the land. The sheer beauty of the earth and the excitement of being in a position to see it made this the greatest experience of my life. Using binoculars, I once counted 22 discernible layers of blue in the band of sunrise color that would be seen from earth simply as blue." This is indeed a beautiful and fragile planet. But it's changing. And we humans are the cause of much of it. George Burns once quipped, "I can remember when the air was clean and s%x was dirty." All right, he lived to be 100, but we can bring those days of clean air back. We can live simply and responsibly. We can walk gently upon the face of the earth. And with our broadcasting station once again in good order, I think I know what we'll hear God saying: "Thank you." ~ Steve Goodier ~ --- _ _ ((`'-"``""-'`)) ) - - ( / (o _ o) \ \ ( 0 ) / _'-.._'='_..-'_ /`;#'#'#.-.#'#'#;`\ \_)) '#' ((_/ #. .# '#. .#' jgs / '#. .#' \ _\ \'#. .#'/ /_ (((___) '#' (___))) ...We can start by teaching our youth... I am astonished at our youth these days. Some have no value for this great planet of ours and they let it show by how blatantly they throw things out of car windows and on the ground. They seem to have the attitude that someone else will pick it up or clean it up. I remember our generation and even that of my own kids where we were advised in many a commercial and timely placed ads to... _ _ \'-.__.-'/ / (o)(o) \ \ \/ / /'------'\ /, .. , \ /// .::::. \\\ ///\ :::::: /\\\ jgs '' ).''''.( `` =====(((====)))===== Give A Hoot - Don't Pollute! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nidEDUDXk9M And then there was my love due to my grandmother being a park Ranger: __ __ / \.-"""-./ \ \ - - / | o o | \ .-'''-. / jgs '-\__Y__/-' `---` Smokey The Bear ads https://www.ispot.tv/topic/character/nW/smokey-the-bear We just need to keep teaching our kids and grandkids to value God's creation - no matter what it is. Not like we can get it back once it is destroyed or killed. Nature and Life are so very precious! -<>- _ ,:'/ _..._ // ( `""-.._.' \| / 6\___ | 6 4 | / \_ .--' (_'---'`) / `'---`() ,' | , .'` | )\ _.-' ; / | .'` _ / /` / .' '. , | / / / \ ; | | | \ | | .| | | \ `"| /.-' | | | '-..-\ _.;.._ | |.;-. \ <`.._ )) | .;-. )) (__. ` ))-' \_ ))' `'--"` jgs `"""` >Zoe This is a great story from someone whose dog works to make others happy: Judy Grumbling in Southside, West Virginia writes to tell about the important work that her dog Zoe does. Zoe is a rottweiler who went through training and a great deal of testing to receive the title of "therapy dog". She also has a Canine Good Citizen certificate. However, the therapy that she does is really quite different than most work that therapy dogs do. The R.E.A.D. (Read Education Assistance Dogs) program helps children work on their reading skills. It may sound silly, but children read aloud to dogs. And it works! Children who are slow readers are embarrassed to read aloud in front of peers who may ridicule them. Reading shouldn't be stressful. It should be fun! And who knows better about fun and how to be an attentive pal than a dog? This is where Zoe comes in. Zoe sits quietly and listens while children read to her. With Zoe's unwavering attention, the children feel she is soaking up every word. Judy writes that she and Zoe have been doing this work for three years and to date 130 children have moved up in reading levels under Zoe's watchful gaze. Instead of feeling like outcasts, the children feel like they are given special treatment with a dog for a friend. Judy has watched many shy children go from low slow embarrassed reading to excited participation. She feels that Zoe has opened a door for many children who have gone from hating to read to loving to read books. Judy is proud to have such an amazing companion who does such wonderful work. Visit here for more: Read Education Assistance Dogs https://tinyurl.com/8yhuozlg -<>- .--. .--. : _ \/ _ : _\/ \ 6 6 / \__\ ' / \'--'/ \__/_ /\ /\ \ / \/ \ \ / jgs _\ /_ (__\ /__) >ON THE SLOW TRACK By: Joseph J. Mazzella "Get on the Fast Track to success in life Now!" These were the words blaring out of my car radio when I turned my engine on the other day. I didn't wait to hear what it was advertising before I switched to another station. The fast track in life has never been for me anyway. I have always found my own success in life on the slow track. Being on the slow track gives me time to talk to my friends and be with my family. It lets me watch the sun rise in the morning sky and set at the end of the day. It gives me moments to sip coffee and laugh at the comics in the newspaper. It reminds me to stop and sniff the dogwoods and flowers in the Spring, walk barefoot in the grass in the Summer, romp in the leaves in the Fall, and make snow angels every Winter. It helps me to keep my arms, hands, and face in good shape by giving me plenty of time to hug my kids, pet my dogs and cats, and smile at all of life's simple pleasures. It allows me to take long walks on warm evenings and feel the breeze on my face. It lets me read uplifting books, listen to beautiful music, and dare to sing along myself. Most of all it gives me time to pray. It gives me time to thank God everyday for my life. It gives me time to ask for His help in loving others, spreading joy, and growing in oneness with Him. Being on the slow track helps me to be the person I was meant to be, to do the things I was meant to do, and to learn the wisdom I was meant to learn. That to me is what true success in life is all about. The slow track may be a quiet path. It may be the road less traveled. But it is a path that is full of love and joy and its road leads to eternity. If you are on the fast track in your own life perhaps you might want to take a detour. The slow track may not make you a lot of money, but it will make your heart smile. The slow track may not help you to gain the whole world, but it will help you to keep your soul. -<>- , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Allah or Jesus by Rick Mathes Last month I attended my annual training session that's required for maintaining my state prison security clearance. During the training session there was a presentation by three speakers representing the Roman Catholic, Protestant and Muslim faiths who explained their belief systems. I was particularly interested in what the Islamic Imam had to say. The Imam gave a great presentation of the basics of Islam, complete with a video. After the presentations, time was provided for questions and answers. When it was my turn, I directed my question to the Imam and asked: "Please, correct me if I'm wrong, but I understand that most Imams and clerics of Islam have declared a holy jihad [Holy war] against the infidels of the world. And, that by killing an infidel, which is a command to all Muslims, they are assured of a place in heaven. If that's the case, can you give me the definition of an infidel?" There was no disagreement with my statements and without hesitation, he replied, "Non-believers!" I responded, "So, let me make sure I have this straight. All followers of Allah have been commanded to kill everyone who is not of your faith so they can go to Heaven. Is that correct?" The expression on his face changed from one of authority and command to that of a little boy who had just gotten caught with his hand in the cookie jar. He sheepishly replied, "Yes." I then stated, "Well, sir, I have a real problem trying to imagine Pope John Paul commanding all Catholics to kill those of your faith or Pat Robertson or Dr. Stanley ordering Protestants to do the same in order to go to Heaven!" The Imam was speechless. I continued, "I also have problem with being your friend when you and your brother clerics are telling your followers to kill me. Let me ask you a question. Would you rather have your Allah who tells you to kill me in order to go to heaven, or my Jesus who tells me to love you because I am going to Heaven and He wants you to be with me?" You could have heard a pin drop as the Imam hung his head in shame. Chuck Colson once told me something that has sustained me these 20 years of prison ministry. He said to me, "Rick, remember that the truth will prevail." And it will! The author, Rick Mathes, is a well known prison ministry leader -<>- >Links for Your Enjoyment :) Just Thinking http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/thinking.html Here's Your Frog http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/frog.html Reasons To Smile http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/smile.html Willis (Sears) Tower http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/willist.html Empire State Building http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/empire.html Canyon Skywalk http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/skywalk.html Friends Together http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/poems/together.html Why We Love Dogs! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/whydog.html It Takes Two http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/poems/two.html The REAL Story Of The Eagle http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/eagle.html Amazing Air Cars http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/aircars.html Hidden http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/poems/hidden.html Dogs as Best Friends! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/bestfriend.html Thoughts Into Action 2 http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/action2.html Butchart Gardens http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/bgardens.html -<>- Bible: Agape vs. Phileo [The Love of God vs. The Love of the World] http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/Agape_vs._Phileo.htm Bible: Nesting And More: https://www.truthortradition.com/category/articles Victory! The Supreme Court Just Ruled in Favor of Keeping Churches Open / Warning: Before You Post on Social Media – Read This First / Hundreds of Thousands of People Searching for “The World’s Truth” Discover Jesus And More: https://www.christianlifedaily.com/ Fun Family-Friendly Indoor Winter Activities To Do During Frigid Cold Months https://tinyurl.com/7ub3rv6h -<>- >In The News: VA NEWS: New SECVA, Free Veteran Beekeeping Program, Grants for Adaptive Sports https://tinyurl.com/xp2dq6aa VA HEALTH: https://tinyurl.com/2w3j6ked Trump Aide REVEALS How Long Bill Barr Was Working For Sleepy Joe! https://tinyurl.com/11wrjfza Laid-off Keystone Pipeline Workers Shred Biden’s Reckless ‘Green’ Executive Order https://thescoop.us/ 'Attack on women's rights': Haley speaks out against Biden's executive order on transgender athletics https://tinyurl.com/qcfdbu8f Criminal Probe Launched After Greta Thunberg Accidentally Reveals Who is Pulling the Strings https://tinyurl.com/jhyw7wpz LA Shuts Down COVID Vaccine Sites Due to Shortage / 100-Vehicle Pileup in Forth Worth / Federal Debt and Spending Sets New Record / Biden Considers a Fashion Czar to Stop Climate Change / Biden Mulls Travel Restrictions from Florida / Looking Back at Big Labor’s Capitol Siege Ten Years Ago / LifeSiteNews has been Banned by YouTube / Newly Elected GA Senator Under Investigation for Election Fraud https://reliablenewsnow.com/ Twitter Expands Attacks on Conservative Speech / Anti-Trump Group Under Fire for Involvement in Alleged / Anti-Conservative Lincoln Project Back in Hot Water AND More https://deepstatejournal.com/ Marjorie Taylor Greene’s Latest Move Has Just Secured Your Second Amendment Rights /Trump Preparing To Launch HIS OWN Social Media Platform! http://2020conservative.com/ Latest From TPN News: https://threepercenternation.com/ Latest From AFA: http://tinyurl.com/j7lakqw Students For Life https://tinyurl.com/yd5nxmu6 Latest From OperationRescue: http://www.operationrescue.org/ Latest Product Alert: http://www.emergencyemail.org/products/?fmt=text Latest Health Alert: http://www.emergencyemail.org/health/?fmt=text Click to Give Free https://tinyurl.com/y2abb8d2 -<>- Revisiting... >From Our Friend Sharon Angus Beef -Why There Are So Few Scottish Workers http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_OQWIi7g9s --- ...LOL! Thanks Sharon! -<>- >From Our Friend Linda :) Rabbit learned how to do this... Who needs sheepdogs when there are... rabbits! https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=qeuL5IGimCQ# --- ...So cute! Thanks Linda! [Et-Ahem Army language] Army-Beach Boys http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWmOaBqy8Qo --- ...LOL! Great! Thanks Linda! Here's another... Army In Iraq http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&feature=fvwp&v=3OykPqYPugs -<>- -<>- >From LynnLynn's links Melva/Forgiving (written by Carol) http://silverandgoldandthee.net/Misc_files/A/Fg.html Loving Thoughts http://www.reflectionsofsouthbreeze.com/Pages/lovingthoughtsofmom.htm John w/ Right Now.... Someone http://heavens-gates.com/rightnow/ Pictures To Ponder http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/ponder.html Carolyn w/ My Wish Came True ~ Elvis http://carolynspreciousmemories.com/elvis/mywishcametrue.html BabyLissa's and LynnLynn's Trivia - Daily Trivia Game https://tinyurl.com/g2bt5acp Visit Melissa's Online Store You can get anything you want (except for Melissa ) at the online store http://pdhomes.net/mall/babylissa/mySTORES/ISELL4.html ========================================================== MMMMm MMMMMMMMMMM mMMMMMMMMMMMm MMMMMMM mMMMMMMMMMm MMMMMMMMMMM MMMMMMMMm MMMMMMMMM mMMMMMMMMMm MMMMMMMMM mMMMMMMMm MMMMMMMMM mMMMMMMMMm MMMMMMM mMMMMMMMMm MMMMMMMM mMMMMMm MMMMMMMM 0 mMMMMMm MMMMM mMMMMMm o@@@o MMMMM mMMMm MMMMM o@@@@@@o mmmmm mMMMm MMM mMMMm o@@@@@@@@@oMMMMMMMM @oo MMM mMm MMM o@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ooMMMM @@@@o mMm M mMm o@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@oo @@@@@@@@o MhhhHHHHHHHHhhhM o@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ @@@@@@@@@o hhHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHhh oo@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ @@@@@@@@@@@oo hHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHh oo@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ @@@@@@@@@@@@@@ooHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHoo@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ooHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHoo@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ooHHHHHHHHHoo@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@Chad Lemon@@@ >-->A WINTER SUNRISE By: Joseph J. Mazzella God gave us the most glorious Winter sunrise this morning. The huge clouds seemed to float majestically across the entire sky. The reds, pinks, purples, and yellows mixed together to create a beautiful, joyous, and uplifting sight for the eyes, mind, heart, and soul. Birds flew silently and peacefully across the Heavens ,and the entire world seemed to be quietly rejoicing in the love and care God put into this morning light. It was so fantastic and so heart warming a sight that I couldn't stand to just watch it through the windows of my heated home. I wanted to be out there surrounded by it. I quickly pulled on my coat then and stepped out on my porch. I looked up to the Heavens with a smile on my face. I breathed in deeply the icy, morning air. I felt my heart beating with happiness, my mind filling with peace, and my soul dancing with delight. I thanked God for this wonderful gift of beauty, love, and joy and for the gift of my life as well. I read the other day that many people see only one sunrise in a thousand. It saddened me to think that these gifts from God, given every morning, were being missed by so many. It made me think of all the other gifts from God that we miss, reject, or ignore as well. The arms on our bodies are wonderful gifts, but we rarely use them to hug another. Our voices are fantastic gifts, but we use them to laugh and sing far less than we could. We don't use our teeth to smile enough, our feet to dance enough, and our eyes to see enough either. This is why we miss so many sunrises and this is why we miss so much love and joy as well. Don't miss out on God's gifts then. Don't miss out on the opportunities God gives us every day. Seize them. Rejoice in them. Watch a sunrise with them. Do good with them. Share love and joy with them. And use them to always grow closer to the One who gave them. ====================================================================== ..8888888.. ..8888888.. .8:::::::::::8. .8:::::::::::8. .8:::::::::::::::8:::::::::::::::8. .8:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::8. 8:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::8 8::::::::::/` \/ `\:::::::::::::::::8 8::::::::::\ /` \/ `\:::::::::::8 '8:::::::::::. .\ /::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::\/:::. .:::::::::::8' '8::::::::::::::::\/:::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::::::::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::::::::8' two hearts '8:::::::::::8' beat as one... jgs '8:::::8' '8' >-->The Valentine's Day Balloon By Mike Colllins This Valentine's Day my wife and I will celebrate eleven years of a rock-steady relationship. It was on that particular day eleven years ago that I asked her to "go steady" with me. Later that year (November) we were married. We will be celebrating eleven wonderful years of a faithful relationship, and we also celebrate the releasing of our eleventh balloon. Let me explain; eleven years ago we had been dating only a few weeks when Valentine's Day was approaching. I bought flowers and a beautiful card for her; she bought a rose and a huge helium-filled balloon for me. We both drove to Kroger's and met in the parking lot. I'll never forget being totally mesmerized by her infectious smile as I watched her get out of her car. She walked over to me and handed me the rose and balloon, except I thought the balloon string was tied to the rose, and she thought that I had a hold of the string and the rose. We both stood and watched helplessly as the balloon flew slowly out of sight. Jewell began to cry; she thought that it was a disaster to lose the balloon like that. It was at that moment that I asked her to "go steady" with me and to be mine and only mine; fortunately for me she said yes. Every Valentine's Day since, we have bought a balloon and made our way to a public area to release it into the sky. With this tradition we have been able to turn tragedy into something memorable: what was originally thought of as a blunder now is celebrated as a special moment. We have been very dedicated to our balloon-releasing ceremonies. We have released balloons from different states, and at times have been so busy that we were forced to make a special effort in order to even continue the tradition. In 1999, balloon number seven was released in the middle of a hectic week of packing as we were moving from one city to another. Balloon number six was the very first to be released outside of the state of West Virginia, and on February 13th 1996, my wife's father passed away after only one week in the hospital; the next day we tearfully released balloon number four. We have been through quite a bit in the short time we have spent together. After all this time I now realize that I love her more today than I did eleven years ago. I love my wife more than I love myself; as a matter of fact, I would gladly lay down my life for her if necessary. However, the interesting thing to note is she is not number one on my priority list, and thankfully nor am I on hers. God comes first in our lives, then and only then, our respective spouse. C. S. Lewis was quoted once as saying, "When I have learnt to love God better than my earthly dearest, I shall love my earthly dearest better than I do now. In so far as I learn to love my earthly dearest at the expense of God and instead of God, I shall be moving towards the state in which I shall not love my earthly dearest at all. When first things are put first, second things are not suppressed but increased." Because God is prioritized at the number-one slot in my life, I am able to love my wife even more so than had I prioritized her first. Helium balloons rise because of displacement. Helium is lighter than air, and because it displaces air, it causes it to rise. Also, air is lighter than water, and because it displaces water, it causes it to rise. In the same sense, the more we displace earthly things which keep us grounded or tied down, the closer we can get to God. In other words, the more sin we displace or keep out of our lives, the higher the spiritual levels we are able to attain in God. When we are able to do this, it is as if we are actually sending a Valentine balloon to God. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." Remember, when it comes to God's love, you can rest assured knowing there are no strings attached. ========================================================== _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ \ / _ _ /` \/ `\'. .'/` \/ `\ \ / \/ \ / _ _ '. .' _ _ '. .' _ _ /` \/ `\ \/ /` \/ `\ \/ /` \/ `\ \ / \ / \ / '. .' _ _ '. .' _ _ '. .' \/ /` \/` \ \/ /` \/ `\ \/ \ / _ _ \ / '. .'/` \/ `\'. .' \/ \ / \/ '. .' jgs \/ >The Calm Man Story Editor: by Lin Witham Joyce Schowalter Washington, USA Christmas 2001 I raced to ready my young son for my new boss's holiday party. With the potluck item and clean clothes on my son, my holiday spirit lagged. I stopped for gas before the 40-minute drive, then took my son inside the station to pay. A frantic woman ran in the door, screaming. She told the attendant the hose had jumped out, sprayed her with gas, and was still running. Her coat, hands, and hair were dripping gas. He pointed to the bathroom, waited on the next customer, then waved us up. She came out of the bathroom, saying the sink was too small. A man came in, took her hand, and said calmly, "I saw it all. I'll help you." He told the attendant to use the shut off valve. The attendant didn't know its location; together they found it. Then the calm man asked, "Do you have a hose to spray her off?" All three went behind the station and found a spigot, but no hose. They returned, but she wanted to avoid the hospital because she had no money. She looked at me, pleading, "Can you take me home to shower"? I hesitated only a moment. I handed over my gasoline money, saying, Come on! She gave the calm man keys to move her car. I put my son in his car seat and spread a blanket for her. Heading up my driveway, I noticed her car following. I panicked briefly, realizing I'd brought them both home. Could it be a set up? I stopped, quickly gave her my house key, saying, The bathroom's upstairs. I began to walk my son next door. I told the man, You cannot go inside. I asked my neighbor (a single woman I hardly knew) to watch my son a while as I was in a strange situation. I returned and found towels and clothing for the woman in my shower. We garbage bagged her clothes. Back outside, the calm man asked to use my hose to wash gas off her car. He never questioned my fear to let him in. My neighbor called a friend to come check on me. He came bearing a pot of tea and cookies, my neighbor and my son. I invited in the calm man, and we all sat to talk. The calm man was homeless and drifting. I complimented his calm and leadership ability. He said, "I just did the right thing". I called the shelter and offered to take him. He asked just to be returned to the gas station because he'd left things nearby. He expected nothing else. He was a gracious, kind, and helpful man. After tea the woman left, clean and healthy. I hugged and thanked my neighbor and her friend as they left with tears in my eyes. I missed the Christmas party, but that was the best Christmas season I ever had. The effort of neighbors and strangers to help each other was remarkable. ======HeroicStories======= reICareI reICareIC ICareICareICar ICareICareICare reICareICareICareI reICareICareICareIC CareICareICareICareICa reICareICareICareICareI ICarICareICareICareICareI ICareICareICareICareICareI ICarICareICareICareICareICare CareICareICareICareICareICare ICareICareICareICareICareICareI CareICareICareICareICareICareICa ICaICareICareICareICareICareICareI ICareICareICareICareICareICareICar eICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICar ICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICar ICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareIc eICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICa ICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareI reICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICare ICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICa reICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareIc ICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICareICare reICareICareICareIICareICareICareICareIca ICareICareICareICareICareICareICarICa reICareICareICareICareICarICare areICareICareICareICareICa ICareICareICareICare areICareICareICa eICareICareI -Grim CareICar reIC eI >Tender Moments By Bob Perks Bob@BobPerks.com "This is your good morning, I love you, phone call!" I tell her each day. "I love you immensely!" I say every time. "I am praying for you, both." A friend tells me. "Don't worry, Dad. Everything will be fine." My son assures me. "We will be praying for you during the surgery." Someone writes to say. "You're in my thoughts and prayers." Someone emails me. How could something like cancer create such tender moments? How could something so deadly, so vicious create so much love? Prayer. It's that simple. God's response to our prayers isn't always exactly what we want, but always what we need. I would want a doctor to look one more time and say, "The cancer is gone! We don't need to operate." Did I ask for a miracle in my prayers? Yes, I did. And I got one. There are people, thousands, no tens of thousands, praying all over the world for Marianne. That's a miracle. Everyone around us is so compassionate, caring and loving. Everyone in my family now ends conversations with "I love you!" That's a miracle! Every email I receive tells me that someone is praying for us. That's a miracle! Marianne has now received over 1,000 pieces of mail. That's a miracle. A friend overheard me on the phone telling a perfect stranger that my wife had cancer. "How could you? I would kill my husband if he went around telling people!" she said. "I must!" I told her. "When someone shares a burden with me, I consider it an honor. To think that they would tell me about something like that says that they see something in me. Perhaps they see God!" Another person said to me, "Let me ask you something. You say you are a motivational speaker. Then why are you so negative about all this? Why are you afraid? Don't you believe what you tell others to do?" It was a good question. "First of all, I don't like being labeled a "motivational speaker." I can't motivate anyone. Motivation comes from within. I am, however, an inspirational speaker and writer. I write and speak about life as I see it. Motivational speakers often say they have the answers I'm still questioning everything. I tell people I am afraid and they write to tell me God says I shouldn't be. But He created me and will certainly forgive me when I fall down in tears, when I collapse under pressure and when I weep in sorrow. Even Jesus fell while carrying the cross. And in the Garden of Gethsemane he was "troubled" and "sorrowful" (Mat 26:36-39 RSV) Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, "Sit here, while I go yonder and pray." {37} And taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to be sorrowful and troubled. {38} Then he said to them, "My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me." {39} And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, "My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt." So I write about the pain I feel and those who are in pain write to tell me they felt alone until they knew I was hurting, too. I write about fear and those who know fear, seek me out to say, they were once fearful, too. I speak about failure and someone comes to me and says, "I thought I was a failure, too." If someone is doubting their faith and they write to me and say, "Man of faith, why hasn't God answered your prayers?" I reply and say, "I opened my soul and God sent me thousands of strangers who would pray for me. He sent me everyday people to share my story with and in return they comforted me. He made my loved ones speak about love and how much they loved me. "But God did not heal your wife!" he argues. "Yes, He did. He provided surgeons and guided their hands. And more importantly, He turned deadly cancer into "Tender Moments." "I believe in you!" Bob Perks Bob@BobPerks.com copyright 2004 Bob Perks I encourage you to share my stories with your friends but, when copying I ask that you keep my name and contact information attached so that new readers can find their way here. Use of this story for commercial use is prohibited without direct permission from the author. ========================================================== .-.*_, ."". ."". {*(,\}/___ .-"-, | ' | `;)@\*|" `", _.' \ \ / ."". ."". '((/; | .-' | '. .' | ' | *;-.=-=-=._ .;-, | ' \ / __;____..---/' -,\ ; _,__ '. .' .--';`_ __.-'` _/ / ,-..-" "-, ' / `;---'__0 \ .' /,- \. \-. | / (__) \ _.' \_ - - \ _.-,_ { |-'` / 0 __0 7_/ ({\*,;) \,'-`-' /' |/ (__) \ /*(@-'}) ___",_ __ __,;`.--, |/ |` \_,'-;}`.' `'."".,---.._, ) \ \/ /'_.-"/ _`) |`----'`( (= /`-._ .="-,_ __ _,'` / ', \ =";`--'\ '=. /| ()() __`;.____...-'\. | | /` / |\ '. ` | ()@()* /` ' | ,_/.=\ .; | | '. /-' -##@() | .--, `y-'`\ || '--'/| \ \ \`-` ##)@() \ / `) \ '.||_,.--'/ / / ) |/ *`(\A/)() '. | ,-' } || { |.'.| /_.'./ .-.* { >*< }*) `\__/ _..._| |/ { | (\A/) @(/V\)()@() /`--....--` . `} /{ \___{ >*< }()()##()()*{ { ; } { \ / ###(/V\)()@()(####\) { , } | `--.. ,' #########()()##### \ _,' { / <><><><><><><><><> `,_ ,--'{ \ | | } { } ; \ / jgs / } { \ | / ,-` } `-._ _.-'` { `-. .' _,-``, `\ .' } .`\ \(_(_.' `-.__)_)/ `.-' _.-'`'-._ \' `"""` `""""` >-->From SermondFodder: Our Legacy by Donna Ware Note: This was written over six years ago, but still remains true and powerful. I believe it is worth sharing again. Donna has two young adults that bear the marks of her love and grace and are blessed by the legacy she has passed on to them. Children are gifts from God. God has entrusted us with something precious to him -- an eternal someone, a living soul. I am filled with awe as I ponder this. The Heavenly Father not only entrusted me with my childrenís precious souls, but he also gave me his Son to be my own Savior. What an awesome responsibility we have as stewards of this precious gift we call our children and what an incredible blessing the Father wants us to share with them! Once we truly believe our children are gifts from God, we need to let them know that we believe they are gifts. For the early years of our children's lives, I had a shadow box in our kitchen that we could see at every meal. It was divided into four sections. One one for Phil, one for Zachary, one for Megan, and one for myself. Over the years, I had collected assorted tiny treasures that represented the interests of each one of us. In the sections for Zachary and Megan, there were also tiny boxes. Each box was gift wrapped to look like a present with a little bow. This was to remind me, and for me to remind them, that they are both precious gifts to me from God. I wanted them to know how special they are to me ... and to God! For children to truly recognize they are precious to us and to God, they need to feel our unconditional love. This is sometimes hard in our performance-oriented, anxiety-filled world. Our children feel pressure from school, teams, clubs, and friends to be the best at everything they do. Social acceptance is often only given when they measure up in one of these categories. With all that pressure going on in our children's lives, they need to know that we view them differently in our family. At home, they are not measured by what other people think. We love our children just because they are our children -- not because of Aís on report cards, not because of how they look, and not because they were chosen for the baseball team. They are loved because they are who they are and whose they are. A child is not our employee to be evaluated and then have his or her valued determined based upon performance. We must not reduce our love to the equivalent of a payoff -- something like a salary for being a high achiever as OUR child. Let's make our home a safe harbor from the world, a place where our children know our love for them is never going to be calibrated based upon their external performances. One of the ways we demonstrate this love for our children is by sharing our genuine interest in them and their specific concerns. Some things children do may seem very childish or silly, but they are important to our children. Our children are real people now! They have emotions, feelings, and frustrations just like we do. The key difference is that they aren't mature enough to be able to handle many of the things handed to them by their world. We show interest by listening to them and what they are saying. Eye contact is essential! If you are reading the paper, put it down. If you are washing the dishes, stop. By doing these kinds of things, your child will know that he or she is your priority and that you are really interested in what they have to say and in who they are as a person. Every parent knows this isnít easy most of the time. However, it pays huge dividends when we make the time. When you have developed some credibility with your children by really listening to them, then you will be able -- on those occasions when you can't stop and listen -- to tell them, 'I really am anxious to hear what you have to say. If you will give me 30 minutes to finish this task, I will give you my undivided attention.' With these three foundations for children, we have a basis of relationship to pass on our faith. Our children are gifts from God. They must know our unconditional love for them. But for them to believe in those truths, they must know we are interested in them and their concerns. But how can we pass on faith to our children? How can we go from these three principles on to leaving a legacy of faith in our children? First, we pass on faith through teaching them God's principles. We saturate ourselves and our children in the Word of God. We invest our time, effort, and energy into teaching them Biblical truth. We take the time to explain and discuss their questions. We are responsible for teaching our children truth: not the Sunday school teacher, youth minister, or church leader. We do the teaching and these other resources are supplements to our training. Our children will ask questions about our faith and why we believe what we do if we have carefully laid down the three foundations for our children. Don't put off their questions! Those questions may never come up again. When you immediately focus on your child's question, you are sending the message that your child's faith and his or her questions are important to you. This doesn't mean a 30 minute sermon on the subject, but give a short concise answer. If possible, show them a scripture or remind them of a Bible story that teaches or relates to that question. Second, our children learn our faith by our pattern or example that we live before them each day. There is an old saying that goes something like this: "Children learn more by what they see than what they hear." This is so true. However, this is a hard principle for us. It is so easy to be inconsistent. For example: If our children hear us complaining often about worship services being too long ... the songs pitched too high ... they had ol' so and so pray again and he always prays so long ... then our children receive the message that worship is to please me and not to please God. They learn to be critical about church and church people. On the other hand, they can learn a powerful lesson from a mother who is facing a difficult decision as she calls her family together to pray about that decision. They are equipped with prayer and family as resources when they donít know the answer to their problems. SNUGGLE _ _ BUNNIES ( \/ ) _ ((`\ \ / //) \\ \ \/ /// \\ \__ __/// / \_ _/ \ | ^ )( ^ | ) { } ( / \;__:, \ \ | \ ) / | _| '----'--' |_ {_\ / \ /_} | || || | jgs | )) (( | `""""`` ``"""` Third, we hand our faith to our children through our participation with them in their emotional lives. They know we know them, their concerns, and their feelings. This way we can help them better apply God's values in their own lives. We donít smother them, but try to be available to them. They know they are welcome to share their feelings and not be judged. We don't shut off their conversation by saying, "You shouldn't feel that way." They DO feel that way, so we need to help them process those feelings by talking through them with us so that they can find appropriate ways to act or not act on those feelings. Fourth, we pass on our legacy by offering our children appropriate praise. Children can't get enough praise. Praise your children for what they are doing right. They will learn that you care about the things they are doing and that they are a priority. Look for opportunities to praise them. Our children need all the goodness and self confidence in doing right that they can get so they will be able to fight off the temptations of the world as they grow older. Children have a need for attention and will try to earn it either through positive or negative behaviors. Let's give them our attention for positive and godly behaviors! Fifth, we pass on our legacy through prayer. Pray not only for yourself as a parent, but pray for your children. Let your children be involved in your prayer life. Let your children see your dependence upon God in prayer for strength, guidance, and decision making. Let them see you seek the Father in joy and thankfulness. Pray for things together and then let them see how God is answering those prayers. One of the things I appreciate about Philís stepfather, Grady, is that after our visits, he circles up the whole family for prayer before we leave. He gives thanks for our time together, our family, and Godís blessing as we head home. As grandparents, parents, and children hold hands in a circle praying, Grady is modeling prayer to our grandchildren and also to us! __ / \ /'. / | Some bunny loves you! ||'.\| | || \\ / /\ __ /^\/^\ \\ \\'```'-._ ; | /\ \ \ / \'./` __ `P | _/ /\_| `\/` \ .__|' ` -.| | ,' \ /^\/^\ \ .| - - | \ / \____,..-` \ _Y_ __/ `\/` / / `---'"""` `\ \| . __.._/ | '-.__.-""``.-./ |\ | ( _.'` |\ || .-| `` || || | ; || // jgs '-'\ //` `"""""""""`"""""` Finally, if we are going to pass on our faith to our children, I believe we need to have a plan of action. It's so easy to just think it's going to 'happen' -- that they will learn Bible stories, life lessons, and Scripture from Bible class and that's all they need. Rather than just taking our children's training for granted, or simply just taking them to church, I believe it is important to have a key goal or message to share with our children during each of the key early years of their lives. The following is a little guideline Iíve found helpful with my own children: * Infants to Two Years -- You are Secure Here: We Love You and God Loves You! * Two to Three Years -- How Happy We are to Have You in Our Family! * Three to Four Years -- God Loves Us and Will Take Care of Us! * Four to Five Years -- I am So Glad God Made You Just the Way You Are! * Five to Six Years -- You Have Special Talents That You Can Use to Serve Others, God, and Your Family! * Six to Seven Years -- You Can Read God's Word! * Seven to Eight Years -- God Hears You When You Talk to Him: He Will Listen and Answer. You Can Talk to Him about Anything! * Eight to Nine Years -- You Can Know God's Story! * Nine to Ten Years -- You Have a Place in the Lord's Church! * Ten to Eleven Years -- You Can Do Important Things for God! * Twelve to Thirteen Years -- Give Your Life to God! Children are our greatest gift. If we take these precious gifts God has placed into our hands and lovingly mold and guide them into relationship with our Father, what a wonderful legacy we will be leaving for the church and the world. Let's commit to leave that legacy! --------- (c) 2004 Donna Ware. This article can be found on the web at: http://www.heartlight.org/articles/ Visit HEARTLIGHT on the web for even more articles, plus music, devotionals and more for your Christian walk! http://www.heartlight.org ========================================================== ...:::::::... ...:::::::... .:::::::::::::::::. .::::::::::::::::::. .::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::. .:::::::::::::::::::'.-=.-~, ':::::::::::::::::::. .:::::::::::::::::::' /{,_;--'},'::::::::::::::::::::. .:::::::::::::::::::: | .=~`|//| :::::::::::::::::::::. .::::::::::::::::::::: | / ; \ | :::' __, '::::::::::::. .:::::::::::::::::::::' || | | | :' .' \/\ ::::::::::::. .:::::::::::::::::::::: |\| | | |\ / \ /_| :::::::::::::. ::::::::::::::::::::::. \ | | /|'/ / | \ /_ | :::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::' ,_ '::: `\ \/|/ / /`.: \ /__/ ::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::: /\/`'. ':. `\ `./.'/\ : /.--' .:::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::: |_\ / \ ::. '. ,/|\/| // '''''::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::: | _\ / | .:: | | \ \/// .""'-. ::::::::::::: :::::::::::::: \__\ / .: .'/| | `)`/__//_/_/_\ :::::::::::: ':::::::::::::: '--.\ : /\/_| |} /.---. \ \ \ / :::::::::::' '::::::::::::'' \\ |\/_/| | //` . `'...-' :::::::::::' :::::::::: .-""'. \\\/ /{| |// .:::::....:::::::::::::: '::::::: /_\_\_\\__\`(` | '/ :::::::::::::::::::::::' ':::::: \ / / / .---.\ | | :::::::::::::::::::::::' '::::::. '-..,'` .:.`\\ | |} ::::::::::::::::::::::' '::::::......:jgs:: \\| | ::::::::::::::::::::' ':::::::::::::::::: \` | ::::::::::::::::::' ':::::::::::::::: | | ::::::::::::::::' ':::::::::::::: {| | ::::::::::::::' ':::::::::::: | | ::::::::::::' ':::::::::: | | ::::::::::' ':::::::: | |} ::::::::' ':::::: | | ::::::' ':::::. |/ ::::::' ':::.....:::::' ':::::::::' ':::::' ':' >-->Heaven's Heroes Winning souls tend to change everything, Including who and what we are. When our darkness within transforms to light And our eyes have the luster of a star. We must always pray for the lost among us Who eagerly race toward the wrong direction. So they may know their own repentance Blessed by God's, grace, love and protection. All of heaven's heroes have suffered remorse >From hate, fear, lust, loneliness and war. They do what they do with deliverance of heart Defeating the dark side of life and more. Noah found safety within the beams of his ark To endure heaven's cleansing of earth. Moses the deliverer, climbed a mountain Descending with God's guidelines of worth. David the shepherd, a boy among men Slew evil's giant with a flying stone. Samson the strong man, broke from his chains Toppling the temple with God's help alone. Jonah was swallowed by a monster fish To be cast up on shore with a prophecy to tell. Jesus of Nazareth was nailed to the cross And without his forgiveness we're doomed to fail. Lord I'll feel blessed to greet all your heroes When it is my time to escape my woes. I'll clutch their hands and kiss their face As we celebrate the journey we chose. ~ Tom Zart ~ Soldier For The Lord -<>- >Prayer for Protection The Light of God surrounds me; The Love of God enfolds me; The Power of God protects me; The Presence of God watches over me; Wherever I am, God is, And all is well. ~ By James Dillet Freeman -<>- __ _ / \_/ ) \ ` `\ ; a `-. | ) \ _..' /` <._._ / .'';_;'` \ .' : _/ / '. __..-` / | | \/\ \._ \ \ | ``--J \ | / \ | jgs \__.'-._____.' >Lord Please Bless My Computer Every night I lie in bed This little prayer inside my head God bless my mom and dad and bless my children and take care of my spouse who brings me so much joy... God, there's just one more thing I wish that you would do if you don't mind my asking to bless my 'puter, too?? Now I know that it's not normal to bless a small machine but listen just a second and I'll try to explain... You see, that little metal box holds more than odds and ends Inside those small components rest a hundred loving friends. Some it's true I've never seen and most I've never met... never shaken hands or ever truly hugged, and yet... I know for sure they love me by the kindnesses they give, and this little scrap of metal is how I get to where they live. By faith is how I know them, Much the same as I know You. I share in life it brings them, So if it's OK with you... Just take an extra minute from your duties up above... to bless this little hunk of steel that's filled with so much love. So God, Please Bless My Puter... - author unknown- __ /| * * * * * * / * * * / * * * * / * * * * * * .. .. * Happy Valentine's Day * ' L '.` ' * * >>--`. U )).'-->> * Every One! * `. V .' * * `. .` * * ` * / * / * * Makes The World Go Round! __/ * * ,),-, (\ /| * (>|);----,--`------ `-);' (/ pb A Rose - Just For You :) >Updated FUN STUFF URLS - Oh Yeah Shangy! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/urls.html FUN URLS ---------------------------------------------------------------------- -->ShangyFunList AD RATES: $25 will get your a message (of up to 40 words) out to all web site list readers. Email me to secure dates. Ad Request ---------------------------------------------------------------------- -->FULL LENGTH - FREE On line AUDIO MP3 Christian Foundational Class http://www.truthortradition.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=61 NEW LIFE IN CHRIST! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- -->This is for all you who love food and DARE 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 **********************************************************************