Happy V-E Day and Early Mother'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 Shangrala Family Fun: http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/ ================ *~* 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! 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On Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/y8dcm8x7 On X (Twitter): http://tinyurl.com/n5uf3dxv ================ >-->In The 'Shangy' News :) . . . . ,-,--. __| //``-, \ \_`\ )\a-a-? \ \ \_`(_=_/_-`__ \__, , \| | _ _,' ___7 ) | (_)(_`__(_,---' | ( _( ) | / /_| |________| __/__/__|__|_________) _________(__,_|)/ (__)|/____\(_______________ mic I am very pleased to announced we have a new sponsor for the website at www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com. ______________________________________________________________________ |.============[_F_E_D_E_R_A_L___R_E_S_E_R_V_E___N_O_T_E_]=============.| ||%&%&%&%_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ %&%&%&%&|| ||%&.-.&/||_||_ | ||\||||_| \ (_ ||\||_(_ /\|_ |\|V||_|)|/ |\ %&.-.&&|| ||&// |\ || ||_ \_/| ||||_|_/ ,_)|||||_,_) \/| ||| ||_|\|\_|| &// |\%|| ||| | | |% ,-----,-'____'-,-----, %| | | ||| ||| | | |&% """""""""" [ .-;"`___ `";-. ] &%| | | ||| ||&\===// `).'' .'`_.- `. '.'.(` A 76355942 J \\===/&|| ||&%'-'%/1 // .' /` \ \\ \%'-'%|| ||%&%&%/` d8888b // / \ _ _;, \\ .-"""-. 1 `&%&%%|| ||&%&%& 8P |) Yb ;; ( > a a| \ ;; //A`Y A\\ &%&%&|| ||&%&%| 8b |) d8 || ( ,\ \ | ) || ||.-'-.|| |%&%&|| ||%&%&| Y8888P || '--'/` -- /-' || \\_/~\_// |&%&%|| ||%&%&| || |\`-.__/ || '-...-' |&%&%|| ||%%%%| || /` |._ .|-. || |%&%&|| ||%&%&| A 76355942 J /;\ _.' \ } \ '-. /;\ |%&%&|| ||&%.-; (, '. \ } `\ \' ,) ,.,.,.,., ;-.%&|| ||%( | ) 1 """"""" _( \ ;...---------.;.; / )_ ```""""""" 1 ( | )%|| ||&%'-'==================\`------------------`/=================='-'%&|| ||%&%&%&%&%&%&%%&%&&&%&%%&)O N E D O L L A R(%&%&%&%&%&%&%%&%&&&%&%%&|| ||%JGS%&%&%&%&%&%&%&%&%&&/_.----------------._\%&%&%%&%&&%%&%&%&%&%&%&|| '""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""` FinanceCharts.com says Investment research should be free. Investing can be risky. You need as much information at your disposal as possible in order to make the best decisions. If all the best financial information is locked up behind a paywall then it becomes more difficult to do the proper research. Simple price charts or other current metrics just aren't enough for serious investors. We want to see years and years of data, and we want it to be easy to digest. We also want to be able to easily compare multiple companies at once. And it should be super fast and free. We created a site that we actually want to use. Hopefully it will help you as well. Visit here and Enjoy! https://tinyurl.com/2up42dyy Be sure to check out this fine company! You can always be assured that I only go with the best for you! Why? Because I care About you! (¯`v´¯) `*.¸.*´ ¸.•´¸.•*¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•´ .•´ ¸¸.•¨¯`•. Huggums!... :) Shangy! -<>- >-->2 HOT Off The 'Shangy' Press :) Our too hot to handle new page is from our friend LouiseAu. It is full of rib tickling smiles. Be sure to give this a little of your time and check it out here: _ ,g$Pdb. ,:; d$Pd$$P .+::: , :Pd$$$P ,::::: $.d*'`**' ;::::; $P ::::: $ [bug] _.+-**--. ___ $ _.-*"__ ._ ,+:::::+. $ ,' :::; ` ::::::::::+. $_ : ::::: "* `^:::::::^" (.-+. | `.`^:; : """ (`- \ : `-.__; ; .---, $-. \ ; ' / .' .__: $ \ \ | .' .' .' . \ | .' .' .' \: : .' / ` :`-.___.-' l-' / \ ;-._ _.-: .' \: """ : / ;-._ _.`-+' | ""**"" ; |-._ _.-*': ; ""**"" | :-._ _.-*'| ; ""**"" : :-. _ _.-*'; \.' `."" / .--. / ; _..' : \/ /`--'-+' \ / : \ `. / \ `. `-' `. \ ; : .' ; : / `--' Funny Veterinary Signs! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/signs5.html --- ...LOL! Great ones! Thanks LouiseAu! Our sizzling hot new page is from our friends LouiseAu and Karen. It highlights some of earth's most amazing meteorites. Some are incredibly dense, some shine like polished steel, and a few even predate Earth itself. Be sure to check this out along with it's video here: _--._ ___-----___ ,' . `- _,-' `-._ ' '`_ `. ,'. --. ``:::.`. ` ` ) / `. \_ ) / )` `._ ` (` `-. ._ __(__,-'_,-' ;m ,' -##, "" "--_: "" : # ` m ww =(\ ' :\ . | ` (_ ` ` |( | . ' / ` : ' `-.__ . ) : --` oO `-' :: / ; ( ::\ ,##. ' ' ,' / )_-_\ \ `` /,-' / ``._ ` __,--'--'_,' `-____ ___,-v rjm ' ----- Awesome Meteorites On Earth! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/meteorites.html --- ...Wow! Pretty interesting! Thanks Ladies! =========================================================== >-->From Heartwarmers: When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child. -- Sophia Loren, Women and Beauty .-. _,,,,,_ .-. ( , ' : : ' , ) / : : \ ; 0.---.0 ; \ / _ \ / \ | (_) | / ." `\ -'- /` ". / `"""""` \ / .' .-== '. \ / / .-=='\ \ ( / \ ) '-;`. .';-' jgs /_ `-.______ .-` __\ /` `\ / `\ / `\ \ | / \ | / `'--'` `'--'` >MOTHER'S DAY OUT OF CONTROL by Joseph Walker West Virginian Anna Jarvis is universally credited with coming up with the idea for an American Mother's Day in 1908. What isn't as widely remembered is that nine years after the first official Mother's Day in this country, Anna Jarvis became the nation's most publicly outspoken opponent of -- what else? -- Mother's Day. This is roughly akin to Santa dissing Christmas, or Punxsutawney Phil being a conscientious objector to Groundhog Day. This is Henry Ford urging the automobubbling public to park their Model T's, or Wilbur and Orville Wright coming back from Kitty Hawk and saying, "Never mind. They'll just start charging people extra to check their luggage." By all accounts (i.e., Wikipedia), Jarvis led a six-year campaign that eventually led to President Woodrow Wilson making Mother's Day an official national holiday in 1914. Her concept was a day to honor mothers in general -- and her own mother in particular -- in quiet, intimate and deeply personal ways. Within a few years, however, the commercialization of Mother's Day soured Jarvis on the whole idea. She hated Mother's Day greeting cards, which she felt were the lazy person's way out of writing a personal, heart-felt letter. She protested - literally - the growing influence of florists and jewelers on the holiday. In 1948, the same year that she died, records show that she was actually arrested while protesting against Mother's Day commercialization. It was as if the Easter Bunny had been jailed for protesting the coloring of Easter eggs. Jarvis' fight against Mother's Day lasted four times longer than her fight to make it a national holiday, and consumed whatever fortune she had accumulated in life. To her dying day she is reported to have said that she regretted the creation of Mother's Day because "it became so out of control." I know. In an era that features "Bad Girls Club," "Desperate Housewives" and "Girls Gone Wild," it is difficult to put the words "Mother's Day celebration" and "out of control" in the same sentence. But let's just assume for a second that Jarvis was on to something. Let's assume that the estimated $2.6 billion Americans will spend this year on Mother's Day flowers and the $1.53 billion they will spend on other miscellaneous Mother's Day gifts and the $68 million they will spend on greeting cards is... well... you know... out of control. Is there a better, more under control way to honor mothers on Mother's Day? A few months after my mother died, I spent a few evenings with my father sorting through some of Mom's things. It had taken him that long to reach the point where he felt he was ready to face the feelings and emotions that surely would come. We smiled a lot and we both shed a few tears as we made our way through a box of precious things that Mom, for one reason or another, had decided to hang on to. Among the keepsakes and souvenirs within that box were a dozen or so Mother's Day cards from her children and grandchildren. Keep in mind that Mom had eight children and 54 grandchildren -- she had received hundreds of Mother's Day cards through the years. But for some reason, she chose to save these particular cards. After examining them, it became clear why they were treasured. It had nothing to do with the design or intrinsic value of the card itself. In every case there was a hand-written message -- sometimes in childish scrawl, sometimes in careful adult script -- that expressed profound feelings. There were no cards that just said, "Love, Kathy" or "Love ya, Mom!" or even "Happy Mother's Day!" The cards she cherished were cards that explained, in the giver's own hand and words, why SHE was cherished. So, OK -- I'm not fully on board with Anna Jarvis. I'm not saying you shouldn't buy the Mother's Day flowers and gifts. Heaven knows, the economy needs that multi-billion dollar jolt right about now. But don't let your money do your talking for you. Don't assume the mother you honor will know how you feel by the simple fact of your gift. Tell her, in your own words, why you love her. Your message doesn't have to be long and flowery -- it just has to come from your heart. Write it. Speak it. Text it. Pray it. But for heaven's sake, share it. Those words, expressing those tender emotions, are what makes Mother's Day so sweet. And not quite so out of control. -- Joseph Walker -<>- ()-() /o o\ _\ Y /_ .--. _ O__`&`__0 /____\ ,_(')< / \ [B] \~~~~/ jgs \___) ()/^\() [A][C] '--' >ALWAYS BY MY SIDE by James Colasanti Jr. "Hey Mom, I'm on my way." The florist had your Mother's Day bouquet of white roses ready for me -- bundled in bright blue tissue paper. I will put them in water immediately when I arrive. I know they are your favorite and these are especially grand. I picked them out myself. And you know, there's nothing quite like the sweet scent of rose petals perfuming the car as I drive. I can remember our house at 15 South Chase Street being the showplace of our neighborhood. The tall three-story house with gray asphalt shingles and white painted trim was kept immaculate by you and Dad. Tulips of various colors bloomed early every spring -- tall gladioluses were in blossom during the summer, and patches of big brightly-colored orange pumpkins filled the side yard in the fall. People would slow down to a crawl in their cars and sometimes stop just to get an eyeful of the splendor. And they would always see you out there with your scissors, cutting a fresh bouquet for the house. Every Sunday afternoon I would sit with you and Aunt Tina in the kitchen eating lemons -- still one of my favorite fruits. It was always a calming and reflective time when we would talk about the problems in the world and we would then devise a plan to solve them. Often a simple solution would be found for what we thought was an insurmountable problem. And you would often tell me, "There is not a problem that doesn't have a solution." Do you remember the Dracula cape you made for me for Halloween when I was 12? Your best friend, Minnie, helped you cut it out, fit it, and sew it up for me in our dining room/sewing room two weeks before the day I was to wear it to school. The black satin lining on that cape looked especially scary during trick or treat. I can still wear it but the collar is too small for my neck without an extender. And then there was the time I was the mummy in third grade and my bandages unravelled long before the school day had finished. That ancient Singer sewing machine cranked out a slew of costumes for me, dresses for you, and shirts, coats, and even a tie or two for Dad. Halloween was always one of my favorite holiday occasions with Christmas being the first. And you always did your best to make them special for us. And who could forget the Halloween night that Karl and I spent sleeping in the Johnstown Cemetery with my first dog, Butchy. I don't think two guys and a dog have ever been more scared. But most of all, Mom, I remember the food. The great Sicilian country-style meatballs with the cheese centers that oozed in your mouth when you bit into them. The many, many layers of lasagna stuffed with different meats and cheeses and smothered with homemade tomato sauce. I miss the pickled pepper salad, also homemade, with hot peppers, cauliflowers, carrots, broccoli, and celery stalks -- all freshly picked for our backyard garden. It was the fitting appetizer to any meal you served. I miss the melt-in-your-mouth breaded veal cutlets as well as your hazelnut canoli-cream cake. My mouth is beginning to water just thinking about them. But most of all, I miss the "culinary smells." I miss the pungent aroma of garlic wafting under my bedroom door early on Sunday mornings; the tangy steam of freshly-made tomato sauce bubbling on the stove; and the hearty smokiness of meats and bacon roasting in the oven. Over the years, all of these have made an indelible impression on my mealtime memories. I can remember the day I left for Syracuse University. I was the only one in our family to ever attend college. You took me aside and whispered in my ear, "Everything you do is a self-portrait of the person doing it. Make it a picture you'll want to hang in your gallery forever." Thank you for sharing that, and I want you to know that I have always tried to live up to your expectations. And Mom, I know I have told you this many times before, "Thank you for getting me Butchy." She was the best dog a fella could ever have. She was my big sister, my best friend, and a companion like no other. I always cherished the moments growing up with her. She was always by my side -- my guardian and my shadow. I waved to Mr. Parker as I pulled into the drive. It's good to see he is still here taking care of the place for you. He does a wonderful job keeping the grounds manicured neatly with everything in its place. I am always impressed every time I come here. He has left some water in your vase so I can quickly unbundle your roses and freshen them up. I know they will shimmer and sparkle against the cool gray granite headstone. It has been so many years since I last saw you but every time I'm here I get that uplifting feeling of joy as though I had just been talking with you and solving any problems that I might have had when I arrived. And Mom, I'm sure you really do know what I mean when I say, "I miss you and your love will be in my heart forever. Thanks, Mom, thanks." -- James Colasanti Jr. __________________________________________________ James is the recipient of the Maxwell Medallion given by the Dog Writers Association of America for the Best Essay for 2010. A past president of the Animal Rescue & Foster Program of Greensboro, NC., James shares his home with a housemate and 9 dogs. He is a lead clerk with Barnes & Noble Booksellers. His stories have appeared in Cesar's Way Magazine and many others including the archives of Petwarmer and Heartwarmers. =========================================================== >-->From Daily Encounter: , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >More Rest, Less Stress (edited) “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.1 Modern day living can be busy and stressful and rest is not something we’re accustomed to. Many of us go about our days feeling like maybe we were born with a built-in to-do list that no matter how many boxes we check we just never seem to get through it. Before long we become burdened, weary, and overwhelmed. You work yourself ragged trying to keep up with some idea you have in your head and you’ve set impossible goals for yourself. Your phone demands your attention every time it dings, urging you to “stay connected". If this sounds like you, then when was the last time you allowed yourself to sit and relax? When was the last time you allowed yourself a moment of quiet where you just closed your eyes and handed your busyness and overworked self over to the Lord? In the stillness, you might just hear the still, small voice that is calling you to rest; calling you to lay your heavy burdens down at His feet. We aren’t meant to carry any of this on our own. Jesus wants to help. He says, “Come to me... I will give you rest"! We have permission to REST! It may be hard to let go of the stress that’s been your sidekick for so long, but we were designed to rest. Our bodies need to rest and refresh... it’s essential! God made sure to include in the beginning of Scripture that HE, Himself, rested. And then in Matthew He said, “learn from me" (11:29). If the Almighty, Everlasting God of the Universe needs His rest, how much more do we as limited humans. Surrender all over to the Lord today, allow yourself some much-needed rest and then sit back and watch how the Lord will prosper your work! Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Lord, rest is one of the hardest things for me to do, when it should be the easiest! Today, I ask that you fill me with the courage to let it go and lay all of my worries, stresses, and my overwhelmed spirit at your feet. I want to rest in your presence and feel your spirit wash over my tired soul. I love you, Father, and I ask this in Jesus Christ's name, Amen. 1. Matthew 11:28 (CSB). Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B. <:))))>< , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >The Importance of Quiet Time ...he said to them, “Take to heart all the words by which I am warning you today, that you may command them to your children, that they may be careful to do all the words of this law. For it is no empty word for you, but your very life, and by this word you shall live long in the land that you are going over the Jordan to possess."1 Growing up, I remember Mom trying to make her Bible time a priority. Since we, her children, were hard at obliging her that time, she took whatever means necessary to acquire it. And so it was that on many occasions we would see her grab her Bible and her coffee and head to the bathroom where she was most likely to have a moment's peace. We eventually caught on to the fact that she was having her quiet time with the Lord and was not to be disturbed. In the Old Testament, when Moses was setting laws for God’s people to follow, he encouraged them to teach God’s Word to their children. Allowing the children to see their parents living for the Lord and following God’s commands was the best way to ensure that God’s love would be carried on for generations to come. Making time with God is the most important thing we can do with our day. First thing in the morning will allow you to begin your day stress and worry free. Putting the day in His hands and asking God for wisdom to help you deal with the situations, big or small, that cross your way. Ending our day with God allows for a peaceful rest as you reflect on how you saw God work today. Whenever it is that you set your quiet time, let it be just that -- quiet. Clear the noise in your head, slow your thoughts down to the speed of your heart and prepare to listen to God. Read a portion of Scripture. It can be a single verse that you carry with you throughout the day. Maybe you’ll choose a Psalm of Praise or a wisdom-filled Proverb. Whatever the Scripture you choose, imagine it being the fuel for your day; the vitamins to give you that boost of needed energy. Take time to pray and reflect on the things consuming your time right now. Give your worries to the Lord. Ask God to heal any hurts that might be weighing on you. Maybe you need to ask God for forgiveness for causing someone else’s hurt. Allow God to renew your spirit and fill you with His so that your children can learn firsthand to rely on the Lord and continue to carry that torch for generations to come. Suggested Prayer: Dear God, please give me the desire to spend time in your Word, seeking Your face every day. Allow my children to see my love for you and give them the desire to seek you as well. In Jesus Christ’s name, Amen. 1. Deuteronomy 32:46-47 (ESV). Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B. When copying or forwarding include the following: "Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2016 ACTS International. --- !|| !|||| ,/|||| !|'''| `\ | )\ \ ejm / \ \ \ ...It is also important To spend a little time each day praying for your family, friends, fellow Christians and the leaders of your country so that they are protected, blessed and guided by the hand of God. =========================================================== >-->From Archives InspiredBuffalo: /:""| .@@@@@, |:`66|_ @@@@@@@@, C _) aa`@@@@@@ \ ._| (_ ?@@@@ ) / =' @@@@" /`\\ \(``` || |Y| //`\ ."~~~~~". || |#| / | || | (>o<) | || |#| \ | || | /a a\ | A || |#| / | || _|_\ O /_|_|~| :| |=: / | |\ 8)___`"`___(|_| ||_|,| | |_| \ |~~~~~~~~~| \)))|| | ((( | \_________/ |~~~`-`~~~| `~\~~~~~~| |/ /_\ \| | | `\ / ()/___\() |_________| ( || ||~~~~~|| |_________| | || || || | || | || || || |_||__ __|_|| ||_____|| jgs (____)) (:;:;)) ||-----|| >Before I was a Mom Before I was a Mom I made and ate hot meals. I had unstained clothing. I had quiet conversations on the phone. Before I was a Mom I slept as late as I wanted. And never worried about how late I got into bed. I brushed my hair and my teeth everyday. Before I was a Mom I cleaned my house each day. I never tripped over toys or forgot words to lullabies. Before I was a Mom I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous. I never thought about immunizations. Before I was a Mom I had never been puked on, pooped on, spit on, peed on, or pinched by tiny fingers. Before I was a Mom I had complete control of my mind, my thoughts, my body and all my feelings. I slept all night. Before I was a Mom I never held down a screaming child so that doctors could do tests or give shots. I never looked into teary eyes and cried. I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin. I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep. Before I was a Mom I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put it down. I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt. I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much. I never knew that I could love someone so much. I never knew I would love being a Mom. Before I was a Mom I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body. I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby. I didn't know that bond between a Mother and her child. I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important. Before I was a Mom I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was OK. I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache or the satisfaction of being a Mom. I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much... before I was a Mom. -Author Unknown -<>- /\ __ \ .-':::. \ :::::|\ |,\:::'/ \ `.:::-' \ `-. \ ___ `-. | .-'';:::. `-.-' / ',''.;;;\ | ','','.''| |\ ' ,',' /' `.`-.___.-;' `--._.-' AsH >Breakfast at McDonald's This is a good story and is true, please read it all the way through until the end! I am a mother of three (ages 14, 12, 3) and have recently completed my college degree. The last class I had to take was Sociology. The teacher was absolutely inspiring with the qualities that I wish every human being had been graced with. Her last project of the term was called, "Smile." The class was asked to go out and smile at three people and document their reactions. I am a very friendly person and always smile at everyone and say hello anyway. So, I thought this would be a piece of cake, literally. Soon after we were assigned the project, my husband, youngest son, and I went out to McDonald's one crisp March morning. It was just our way of sharing special playtime with our son. We were standing in line, waiting to be served, when all of a sudden everyone around us began to back away, and then even my husband did. I did not move an inch... an overwhelming feeling of panic welled up inside of me as I turned to see why they had moved. As I turned around I smelled a horrible "dirty body" smell, and there standing behind me were two poor homeless men. As I looked down at the short gentleman, close to me, he was "smiling". His beautiful sky blue eyes were full of God's Light as he searched for acceptance. He said, "Good day" as he counted the few coins he had been clutching. The second man fumbled with his hands as he stood behind his friend. I realized the second man was mentally challenged and the blue-eyed gentleman was his salvation. I held my tears as I stood there with them. The young lady at the counter asked him what they wanted. He said, "Coffee is all Miss" because that was all they could afford. (If they wanted to sit in the restaurant and warm up, they had to buy something. He just wanted to be warm). Then I really felt it - the compulsion was so great I almost reached out and embraced the little man with the blue eyes. That is when I noticed all eyes in the restaurant were set on me, judging my every action. I smiled and asked the young lady behind the counter to give me two more breakfast meals on a separate tray. I then walked around the corner to the table that the men had chosen as a resting spot. I put the tray on the table and laid my hand on the blue-eyed gentleman's cold hand. He looked up at me, with tears in his eyes, and said, "Thank you." I leaned over, began to pat his hand and said, "I did not do this for you. God is here working through me to give you hope." I started to cry as I walked away to join my husband and son. When I sat down my husband smiled at me and said, "That is why God gave you to me, Honey, to give me hope." We held hands for a moment and at that time, we knew that only because of the Grace that we had been given were we able to give. We are not church goers, but we are believers. That day showed me the pure Light of God's sweet love. I returned to college, on the last evening of class, with this story in hand. I turned in "my project" and the instructor read it. Then she looked up at me and said, "Can I share this?" I slowly nodded as she got the attention of the class. She began to read and that is when I knew that we as human beings and being part of God share this need to heal people and to be healed. In my own way I had touched the people at McDonald's, my husband, son, instructor, and every soul that shared the classroom on the last night I spent as a college student. I graduated with one of the biggest lessons I would ever learn: UNCONDITIONAL ACCEPTANCE. --- _____ / ` /`---'- \ (_ _ \_\ `o'/ 'o` 7) \`- | \`~' /\ `---' \___ --`_---' `` BP ...Another project Try smiling at people and saying with heartfelt love 'God Bless You!' - a day changer. :) -<>- .-"""-. .-"""-. / `..' \ _ | ___ _ _ _ _ | .-' / | | ( \/ )| | | ///// < <======\ | \ / | | /====<<<<< '-._\ \ _|_ \/ \_/ / \\\\\ `\ /' jgs `\ /' `\ /' `\/' >Love Lessons From a Mother's Heart By Lorraine V. Murray I remember my first clumsy efforts at cutting hearts from red paper to create a valentine for the person I loved most in the world, my mom. No matter how crooked the edges, she always praised my efforts as if they were priceless pieces of artwork. Although my mom died over 20 years ago, each Valentine's Day I recall all the lessons about love that she taught me. When I was an infant, my mother revealed her soul of tenderness, as I perched in the bathroom sink and she ran a soapy washcloth over my tiny body, all the while telling me stories and singing to me. In elementary school, she told me it was all right to be different, and I really needed to hear those words because I didn't fit in anywhere. I was a fat, awkward little girl and always the last chosen for teams. While other girls boasted of boyfriends who slipped them valentines, my mailbox was conspicuously empty. In high school, when all my friends were spinning elaborate fantasies about the senior prom, I was heartbroken because I didn't have a date. I remember standing on the front steps with my mom, a big Miami moon smiling down at us, as I confessed my certainty that no man would ever love me. And I remember the way she took me in her arms and assured me that sweethearts would come in time. She taught me that you stick by the people you love, no matter what. My dad had a gambling problem, and the money he earned as a cabdriver had a way of slipping through his fingers at the racetrack. In the days before gambling was recognized as an addiction, my mom simply did what had to be done. She got a job to keep the family financial ship afloat, but she never pointed an accusing finger at my dad. I learned from my mom that people you love sometimes are so vexing that you have to take dramatic measures to get them to toe the line. When my sister and I were toddlers, we sometimes were so rambunctious that my mom would quietly pack a small suitcase, climb into Annabelle, our old black Chrysler, and drive around the block a few times, leaving my dad to contend with the chaos. We always knew she would return, but the gesture shook us back into obedience. My mom taught me that love is deeper than blood. She cherished her best friend, whom we called Aunt Madeline, with the same fervor she bestowed on her two sisters. That lesson rings in my heart today, when my best friend's little children, who call me Aunt Lorraine, reach for my hand as we cross the street. She also taught me that love transcends time. I remember walking into the kitchen one morning and seeing her weeping as she was making a batch of cookies from her mother's recipe. When she told me the tears were for her mom, I was at first baffled. Her mother had died 25 years earlier, and it took me a while to understand that the bond between mother and child is eternal, and whether a child is 10 or 50, memories of mom always tug at the heart. One memory is engraved on my soul forever. I see myself pulling out of the driveway of her Fort Lauderdale home, heading back to college, and there she is, standing in the driveway in one of those flowery cotton shifts and waving, until my car disappears from her view. More than anything, though, my mom taught me about compassion. When she was in the final stages of cancer, I rushed home from college to see her at the hospital. When she noticed that I was coughing and sneezing, she pressed her lips to my forehead in a way that was infinitely familiar and declared weakly that I had a fever. I wanted to stay with her in the hospital, but she insisted that my dad take me home so I could get a good night's sleep. For the rest of my life I will remember that on the night she died, my mother's deepest concern was for me. I still miss her, especially on Valentine's Day, but I believe she's in heaven, and I believe it's a blissful place where she can peek into my life now and again and nudge me gently in the right direction. And this Valentine's Day, I will give my mom the most precious thing I have, the same gift I gave her as a child. I will give her my heart. -<>- \ ,'|`-. / \,' _|_ ',' /'.' | `,' \ -._/_/_'.|,'_\__\_,- | | ,-*." | | ___|,+' /|\`.| | \ \/ | \/`. |___ \ /`.|,'\ / Y. | \/ | `.|_,' | | __ | __\|,- ,-`=--. Ool /=8\ >God and the Spider During World War II, a US marine was separated from his unit on a Pacific island. The fighting had been intense, and in the smoke and the crossfire he had lost touch with his comrades. Alone in the jungle, he could hear enemy soldiers coming in his direction. Scrambling for cover, he found his way up a high ridge to several small caves in the rock. Quickly he crawled inside one of the caves. Although safe for the moment, he realized that once the enemy soldiers looking for him swept up the ridge, they would quickly search all the caves and he would be killed. As he waited, he prayed, "Lord, if it be your will, please protect me. Whatever your will though, I love you and trust you. Amen." After praying, he lay quietly listening to the enemy begin to draw close. He thought, "Well, I guess the Lord isn't going to help me out of this one." Then he saw a spider begin to build a web over the front of his cave. As he watched, listening to the enemy searching for him all the while, the spider layered strand after strand of web across the opening of the cave. "Hah, he thought. "What I need is a brick wall and what the Lord has sent me is a spider web. God does have a sense of humor." As the enemy drew closer he watched from the darkness of his hideout and could see them searching one cave after another. As they came to his, he got ready to make his last stand. To his amazement, however, after glancing in the direction of his cave, they moved on. Suddenly, he realized that with the spider web over the entrance, his cave looked as if no one had entered for quite a while. "Lord, forgive me," prayed the young man. "I had forgotten that in you a spider's web is stronger than a brick wall." We all face times of great trouble. When we do, it is so easy to forget what God can work in our lives, sometimes in the most surprising ways. And remember with God, a mere spider's web becomes a brick wall of protection. -<>- .--. .--. : _ \/ _ : _\/ \ 6 6 / \__\ ' / \'--'/ \__/_ /\ /\ \ / \/ \ \ / jgs _\ /_ (__\ /__) >LISTEN TO YOUR WORDS By Gail Rodgers Have you listened lately to the words you use when you speak to those nearest and dearest to you? Sometimes in the hurried flurry of our day we simply overlook the way we are communicating. We excuse our hasty words and harsh tones because we are tired or stressed. God's Word reminds us that our words are very important. We need to take responsibility for what comes out of our mouths. Listen to these wise words... "Reckless words pierce like a sword but the tongue of the wise brings healing" (Proverbs 12:18). Our sharp words have the ability to cut the people around us. A wise woman will consider what her words are doing and will seek to communicate in a way that brings healing rather than hurt. We know that our communication is made up of words, tone and body language. * Our words only make up about 7% of our communication. * Our tones make up 38%. * Our body language makes up the remaining 55%. Take note today of what your communication sounds and looks like. It may surprise you. Ask God to remind you to be wise in your speech and gentle in your tones and body language. The world out there is filled with sharp words of sarcasm, criticism, negativity and worry. Go against the flow and ask God to help you bring a calm and gentle spirit to your home and workplace today through the way you communicate. Hearts all around us are hurting. You have a unique opportunity today to be a woman of wisdom in the way you communicate. With God's help bring encouragement and healing through your words, tones and body language -<>- ,{{}}}}}}. {{{{{}}}}}}}. {{{{ {{{{{}}}} }}}}} _ _ {{{{{ }}}} m m }}}}} {{{{C ^ {{{{{ }}}}}}\ '=' /}}}}}} {{{{{{{{;.___.;{{{{{{{{ }}}}}}}}}) (}}}}}}}}}} {{{{}}}}}': :{{{{{{{{{{ {{{}}}}}} `@` {{{}}}}}}} {{{{{{{{{ }}}}}}}}} }}}}}}}} {{{{{{{{{ jgs {{{{{{{{ }}}}}} }}}}} {{{{ {{{ }} >A Mother Is Born My first child, a daughter, was born on July 27, 2000, and I found I was completely unprepared. I thought I was ready for her birth. I had read my books and articles on childbirth and baby care; I had bought everything on my shopping checklist. The nursery was ready for use, and my husband and I were anxiously awaiting her arrival. I was prepared for wakeful nights, endless diapers, sore nipples, crying (both hers and mine), and the feeling that I can't get anything done. I was prepared for sitz baths and hemorrhoids. What I wasn't prepared for was the way the entire world looked different to me the minute she was born. I wasn't prepared for the fact that the sheer weight of my love for her would reduce me to tears on a daily basis. I didn't know that I wouldn't be able to get through my first lullaby to her because I wouldn't be able to sing through my tears. I didn't know that the world would suddenly become unbelievably beautiful and yet infinitely scarier. I didn't know that it would seem like a new place had been created inside of me, just to hold this incredible love. I had no idea what it would feel like when the nurse wheeled my daughter in to me saying, "She's looking for you," and the way the image of her deep-blue eyes looking right at me would be seared in my heart forever. I didn't know that I could love someone so much it literally hurts, that a trip to Wal-Mart would make me feel like a protective mother bear guarding her cub, or that my first trip to the grocery store without her would break my heart. I didn't know that she would forever change the way my husband and I look at each other, or that the process of giving birth to her and breast-feeding her would give me a whole new respect for my body. No one told me that I would no longer be able to watch the evening news because every story about child abuse would make me think of my daughter's face. Why didn't anyone warn me about these things? I am over-whelmed by it all. Will I ever be able to leave her and think of anything but her, or see a crust in her eye or spot on her skin that doesn't make me nervous? Will I ever be able to show her and express to her just how deep and all-encompassing my love for her is? Will I ever be able to be the mother I so desperately want her to have? I have heard it said, and I now know that it is true, that when a woman gives birth to her first child, there are two births. The first is the birth of the child. The second is the birth of the mother. Perhaps that is the birth that is impossible to prepare for. By Regina Phillips (c) -<>- .{{}}}}}}. {{{{{}}}}}}}. {{{{ {{{{{}}}} winking }}}}} _ _ {{{{{ }}}} 6 m }}}} {{{{C ^ {{{{ }}}}}}\ '=' /}}}}} {{{{{{{;.___.;}}}}}} {{{{{{) (}}}}}}' jgs `""'"': :'"'"'` `@` >DON'T MESS WITH MOM The Childs Comments and Thoughts My son came home from school one day, with a smirk upon his face. He decided he was smart enough, to put me in my place. "Guess what I learned in Civics Two, that's taught by Mr. Wright? It's all about the laws today, The 'Children's Bill of Rights.' It says I need not clean my room, don't have to cut my hair No one can tell me what to think, or speak, or what to wear. I have freedom from religion, and regardless what you say, I don't have to bow my head, and I sure don't have to pray. I can wear earrings if I want, and pierce my tongue & nose. I can read & watch just what I like, get tattoos from head to toe. And if you ever spank me, I'll charge you with a crime. I'll back up all my charges, with the marks on my behind. Don't you ever touch me, my body's only for my use, not for your hugs and kisses, that's just more child abuse. Don't preach about your morals, like your Mama did to you. That's nothing more than mind control, And it's illegal too! Mom, I have these children's rights, so you can't influence me, or I'll call Children's Services Division, better known as C.S.D." ======== .{{}}}}}}. {{{{{}}}}}}}. {{{{ {{{{{}}}} thinking }}}}} _ _ {{{{{ }}}} e e }}}} {{{{{ ^ {{{{ }}}}}}\ -=- /}}}}} {{{{{{{;.___.;}}}}}} {{{{{{{) (}}}}}}' jgs `""'"': :'"'"'` `@` Mom's Reply and Thoughts Of course my first instinct was to toss him out the door. But the chance to teach him a lesson made me think a little more. I mulled it over carefully, I couldn't let this go. A smile crept upon my face, he's messing with a pro. Next day I took him shopping at the local Goodwill Store. I told him, "Pick out all you want, there's shirts & pants galore. I've called and checked with C.S.D. who said they didn't care if I bought you K-Mart shoes instead of those Nike Airs. I've canceled that appointment to take your driver's test. The C.S.D. is unconcerned so I'll decide what's best." I said "No time to stop and eat, or pick up stuff to munch. And tomorrow you can start to learn to make your own sack lunch. Just save the raging appetite, and wait till dinner time. We're having liver and onions, a favorite dish of mine." He asked "Can I please rent a movie, to watch on my VCR?" "Sorry, but I sold your TV, for new tires on my car. I also rented out your room, you'll take the couch instead. The C.S.D. requires just a roof over your head. Your clothing won't be trendy now, I'll choose what we eat. That allowance that you used to get, will buy me something neat. I'm selling off your jet ski, dirt-bike & roller blades. Check out the 'Parents Bill of Rights', It's in effect today! Hey hot shot, are you crying, Why are you on your knees? Are you asking God to help you out, instead of C.S.D..?" Send to all people that have teenagers or have already raised teenagers, or have children who will soon be teenagers or those who will be parents someday OR ANYONE WHO'D JUST GET A LAUGH ...I love this One!!! from a MOM (Mean Old Mother.) -<>- >Links for Your Enjoyment :) Awesome Bikes! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/awesomebikes.html Gem Wire Tree Art! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/wiretree.html Freedom Isn't Free! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/freedom.html Daily With The Troops! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/daily.html Grand Canyon Skywalk! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/skywalk.html Dollar Art 2! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/dollarart2.html Sgt. Stubby War Dog Hero! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/stubbywardog.html Car Show 2! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/carshow2.html JUDY - POW WAR DOG HERO! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/judywardog.html Silly Veggies! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/veggies.html World's Fastest Cars! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/fastcars.html MILITARY WWII POSTERS! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/militarywwii.html For V-E Day: http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/911andtroopsindex.html Mom And Dads INDEX: http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/momsanddadsindex.html -<>- How to Become a Christian - How to Get Born Again / How to Get Saved / Romans 10:9 & 10 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMzblR8YDQ0 Bible https://quod.lib.umich.edu/k/kjv/ Bible Study Index http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Contents.htm The Way Bible Articles https://thewayinternational.com/english/ Truth Or Tradition.com Index: https://www.truthortradition.com/ Bible Teaching Videos - John Schoenheit Spirit And Truth https://tinyurl.com/2gyn3f35 The Lion Weekly Digest is a newsletter delivering the week's top articles from The Lion straight to your inbox. Find all of the stories: https://readlion.com/ Latest From PragerU: https://www.prageru.com/ Latest From Mommy Underground: https://mommyunderground.com/ Latest From Christian Life Daily: https://www.christianlifedaily.com/ -<>- >In The Worldly News: President Donald J. Trump https://www.donaldjtrump.com/ White House Actions - 2025 https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/ Trump Accomplishments 2025 https://tinyurl.com/musd7m3x DOGE Latest News https://doge.gov/ DOGE Latest Savings https://doge.gov/savings From The Daily Acorn: Positive News https://www.thedailyacorn.com/ Latest From Lifezette: https://www.lifezette.com/ Tucker Carlson On Rumble https://rumble.com/c/TuckerCarlson Latest Eric Bolling: https://ericbolling.com/ Latest From Hannity: https://hannity.com/ Latest From American Action News: https://americanactionnews.com/ Latest From Reliable News: https://reliablenewsnow.com/ Latest From Newsmax: https://www.newsmax.com/ Latest From Expose: https://expose-news.com/ Latest From Billings Report: https://billingsreport.com/ Latest From AFA: http://tinyurl.com/j7lakqw 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://greatergood.com/clicktogive/ggc/home 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 ========================================================== >-->From God'sDailyWord: , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Right Where He Wants Us Joseph was the second youngest son of Jacob and was greatly loved by his father. In fact, his brothers developed a jealous hatred for him because their father "loved Joseph more than any of his other sons" (Genesis 37:3). Their hatred for Joseph continued to grow until they "sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites who took him to Egypt" (Genesis 37:28). Joseph was then sold to Potiphar, the captain of the guard for Pharaoh, and was soon falsely accused by Potiphar's wife and thrown in jail. At this point, Joseph could really have felt sorry for himself - things were definitely not going well! Only a short time before, Joseph's path seemed well established; his father loved him, he knew where he was going, and his life was filled with joy. Now, locked up and in a foreign land, Joseph's life seemed to have taken a drastic turn for the worse. Genesis 39:20-22 "But while Joseph was there in the prison, the Lord was with him; He showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there." It's safe to say that all of us, at different times during our walk with the Lord, feel like we have been sent far away and locked up. We feel distanced from God and unable to change our circumstances. Others seem to be controlling our every move and we sink into a deep despair. But is it possible God is much closer than we think? "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5). Is it possible He is working (even now!) this terrible situation toward the good? "In all things God works for the good of those who love Him" (Romans 8:28). And is it possible that in the middle of our "prison" God has much work for us to do? While in jail, Joseph interpreted dreams for Pharaoh's officials (Genesis 40) and was then called to interpret a dream for Pharaoh; "I've heard it said of you that when you hear a dream you can interpret it" (Genesis 41:15). Joseph interpreted Pharaoh's dream and was placed in a position of great responsibility; "You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders" (Genesis 41:40). It was God's plan to place Joseph in control of the distribution of food, and therefore, to save many lives... including the lives of his father and brothers (Genesis 42-48). No matter what this day brings - no matter how trapped we feel - we must keep looking for God's good and trusting that His plan is unfolding. He is using our circumstances to mold us and draw us close to His side, and He is using our testimony of faith to encourage others to love Him more. We must believe that, even in the middle of our prison, God is in control and we are right where He wants us! Have a Christ Centered Day! Steve Troxel God's Daily Word Ministries **** Reading Plan **** Genesis 46:1-47:31; Matthew 15:1-28; Psalm 19:1-14; Proverbs 4:14-19 <:))))>< , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Hold Me When a young child wants to be held, they simply reach up their arms and say, "Hold me!" Children may be hurt, scared, or tired; they may not even know why they want to be held, but they know that spending time in arms of love seems to make everything better. And as a parent looks down at their child, they rarely evaluate them to determine if they deserve to be held or send them away to earn affection. Rather, they simply pick up the child and hold them with no words even being required. In truth, moments like this bring parents some of their greatest joy! Matthew 18:3 "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Our Heavenly Father loves us very much! He wants us to come to Him with outstretched arms. He wants to pick us up and hold us tight. In truth, moments like this bring His greatest joy! And yet, we spend most of our days avoiding our Father's loving arms. We seek other forms of comfort and work to earn our Father's affection. We pour our heart into projects thinking they are vitally important to God's work; "Daddy, look what I made for You!" But our best efforts are as grade school pencil holders and disfigured flowerpots. Our Father smiles at these simple gifts but wishes we would understand. There's much work to do for the Kingdom of God, but none more important than loving and being loved by the One who has loved us since the beginning of time; "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength" (Mark 12:30). This can be a difficult concept for many who have not grown up with the unconditional love and acceptance of an earthly father, but our Father in Heaven is like none we've ever known. He created us for a relationship of love and "gave His one and only begotten Son" (John 3:16) so we could be restored to the relationship which sin stole away. Let there be no doubt of His love and His promise; "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5). He longs for us to return! Yes, we must clean our room, take out the trash, and treat others nice on the playground; but at the end of the day, His greatest desire is that we reach up with empty arms and say: I love You Daddy... hold me! Have a Christ Centered Day! Steve Troxel God's Daily Word Ministries **** Reading Plan **** Genesis 20:1-22:24; Matthew 7:18-29; Psalm 9:1-12; Proverbs 2:18-22 --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...this verse is often misunderstood Matthew 18:3 "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Jesus was talking about the rebirth - being born again It further explains it here: John 3 [3] Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. This verse explains it even further... 1 Pet.1 [23] Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. When we were first conceived, it was of corruptible seed from our earthly father. When we are born again, it is from incorruptible seed from God our Father. This requires us to be saved... Romans 10: [9] That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. [10] For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` See these teachings: The Simplicity and Grace of THE NEW BIRTH [Romans 10: 9 and 10] https://tinyurl.com/3cp5jyh5 How to Become a Christian - How to Get Born Again / How to Get Saved / Romans 10:9 & 10 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMzblR8YDQ0 ========================================================== >-->From LaughAndLift: "Pressing on in painful circumstances is the discipline of keeping our faith when everything not only goes wrong but becomes worse. It means holding onto the Lord during deep trials and asking Him to hold onto us when we feel weak in faith and hope." - Sheila Cragg , .--'|} _ , / /}} -====;o`\/ } .=\.--'`\} \-'\-'----. //` '---./` \ |-..-'` || /| /\/\ \\| | `--` |\_\\/ \__/\\ \\ jgs \| >Pruning (By Hugh B. Brown) In the early dawn, a young gardener was pruning his trees and shrubs. He had one choice currant bush which had gone too much to wood. He feared therefore that it would produce little, if any, fruit. Accordingly, he trimmed and pruned the bush and cut it back. In fact, when he had finished, there was little left but stumps and roots. Tenderly he considered what was left. It looked so sad and deeply hurt. On every stump there seemed to be a tear where the pruning knife had cut away the growth of early spring. The poor bush seemed to speak to him, and he thought he heard it say: "O, how could you be so cruel to me; you who claim to be my friend, who planted me and cared for me when I was young, and nurtured me and encouraged me to grow? Could you not see that I was rapidly responding to your care? I was nearly half as large as the trees across the fence, and might soon have become like one of them. But now you've cut my branches back; the green, attractive leaves are gone, and I am in disgrace among my fellows." The young gardener looked at the weeping bush and heard it's plea with sympathetic understanding. His voice was full of kindness as he said, "Do not cry; what I have done to you was necessary that you might be a prize currant bush in my garden. You were not intended to give shade or shelter by your branches. My purpose when I planted you was that you should bear fruit. When I want currants, a tree, regardless of it's size, cannot supply the need." "No, my little currant bush, if I had allowed you to continue to grow as you had started, all your strength would have gone to wood; your roots would not have gained a firm hold, and the purpose for which I brought you into my garden would have been defeated. Your place would have been taken by another, for you would have been barren. You must not weep; all this will be for your good; and some day, when you see more clearly, when you are richly laden with luscious fruit, you will thank me and say, `Surely, he was a wise and loving gardener. He knew the purpose of my being, and I thank him now for what I then thought was cruelty.'" Some years later, this young gardener was in a foreign land, and he himself was growing. He was proud of his position and ambitious for the future. One day an unexpected vacancy entitled him to promotion. The goal to which he had aspired was now almost within his grasp, and he was proud of the rapid growth which he was making. But for some reason unknown to him, another was appointed in his stead, and he was asked to take another post relatively unimportant and which, under the circumstances, caused his friends to feel that he had failed. The young man staggered to his tent and knelt beside his cot and wept. He now knew that he could never hope to have what he had thought so desirable. He cried to God and said, "Oh, how could you be so cruel to me? You who claim to be my friend - you who brought me here and nurtured and encouraged me to grow. Could you not see that I was almost equal to the other men whom I have so long admired? But now I have been cut down. I am in disgrace among my fellows. Oh, how could you do this to me?" He was humiliated and chagrinned and a drop of bitterness was in his heart, when he seemed to hear an echo from the past. Where had he heard those words before? They seemed familiar. Memory whispered: , __ \/ __ /\^/`\ /o \{}/ o\ If I had a flower for each time | \/ | \ () / I thought of you, my garden | | | `> /\ <` ,,, would be full... \ \ / @@@@ (o/\/\o) {{{}} _ _ '\\//' @@()@@ _ ) ( ~Y~ @@@@ _{ ' }_ || @@@@ _(_)_ wWWWw .oOOo. @@()@@ { `.!.` } || ,/ (_)@(_) (___) OO()OO @@@@ _ ',_/Y\_,' || ,\ | /) (_)\ Y 'OOOO',,,(\|/ _(_)_ {_,_} |\ || |\\|// vVVVv`|/@@@@ _ \/{{}}}\| (_)@(_) | ,,, | | || | |;,,,(___) |@@()@@ _(_)_| ~Y~ wWWWw(_)\ (\| {{{}} | | || / / {{}}} Y \| @@@@ (_)#(_) \| (___) | \| /~Y~ \ \||/ /\\|~Y~ \|/ | \ \/ /(_) |/ |/ Y \|/ |//\|/ jgs\ `\\//`,.\|/|//.|/\\|/\\|,\|/ //\|/\|.\\\| // \|\\ |/,\|/ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ "I'm the gardener here." He caught his breath. Ah, that was it - the currant bush! But why should that long-forgotten incident come to him in the midst of his hour of tragedy? And memory answered with words which he himself had spoken; "Do not cry... what I have done to you was necessary... you were not intended for what you sought to be... if I had allowed you to continue... you would have failed in the purpose for which I planted you and my plans for you would have been defeated. You must not weep; some day when you are richly laden with experience you will say, `He was a wise gardener. He knew the purpose of my earth life, ... I thank him now for what I thought was cruel.'" -<>- >From Laugh & Lift Daily Issue 5/9/10 Happy Mother's Day! :) _ _|_|_ ,|_| |_|_ || | | |_| || | | | | || | | | | _|| | | | | ||)\ ^ ^ ^ | || | | || | | || | | \\ | \\ / ejm )\ ( / \ \ / \ \ \ \ I give thanks to the Lord for the blessing of having had another year with my mom. Many of you know that this last year has been very rocky as she came to the brink of "going home" with very serious cancer. Also as many of you know, she is doing much better now. I praise God for my mom and how He has used her in my life. I'm 29-years-old and still learning very valuable things from my mom and her relationship with Jesus - and although I've always been very close to her, my love for her actually continues to grow even deeper as time moves on. May we all thank God today for our moms! -Chris ----------- Most friction in life is caused by the tone of the voice. + (|) _____.___.|_|. | / \ |===| | / \ | o | |__/__v__\|, ,| | | | | | || || |/| . . . |','| ||| A A A | , | ||| M M M | | wtx --------------------- >Mother: God's Servant (by Charles Stanley) Before a child ever hears about the Lord at church, he or she witnesses a parent's example of faith. For this reason, all children share the common need for a godly mother. Love toward God multiplies and spills out from believers onto others, including sons and daughters. God's care is pure and unselfish - much different than what the world offers. When we experience His concern, provision, and protection, it's easier for our children to grow up loving God. Every child needs a mom who trusts God. A perfect mother is unrealistic. And she wouldn't be good for her kids in the long run. Witnessing Mom's trust during trials and heartbreaks is the way children learn to place their faith in God. Teaching little ones to trust ensures they'll always know the heavenly Father is close, even when parents aren't. Every child also needs a mother who knows how to pray. A wise mom teaches her children how to access almighty God. Dr. Stanley still recalls his mother's voice as she knelt next to his bed each night. Thanks to her, he understood very early that God was always listening and willing to respond to his prayers. A mother serves many people, including her spouse, children, extended family, and friends. But she must serve the Lord first. When she accepts God's love, practices trust, and keeps a daily discipline of prayer and Bible reading, she'll find the strength to fulfill all of His requirements. SUBSCRIBE INFO Want to receive a Christian inspirational item AND great clean humor in an email to you each day of the week? It's easy and FREE! Read all about Laugh & Lift at http://www.laughandlift.com ========================================================== _ _ _.=;;;;;;/ '.,-,.' \ .:="` _ _\_.'\_/'._/ //_ _ (_I_) / | \ ||(_I_) (_>@<_)/_/_\ \ |(_>@<_)_(_I_) (_I_)\|_ |_(_I_)_I_)-_.(_>@<(_I_) (_I_)-(_>@<_(_I_)_I(_>@<_) (_>@<_)-(_I_(_>@<_)=_(_I_) (_I_)_-=_==_(_I_)=__=-/ \-=_=-_-=_-_=__=-_=/ jgs \_=-_-_==-_=-__=-/ '-==--===-===--' >-->Happy Mother's Day >A Thank You Note to Momma Dearest Momma, it's Mother's Day and as I reflect On you, this is what I need to say: Thank you for always being a lady with a heart of gold. You were my treasure whom I love beyond measure. I want to say thank you, for all the times I was in need, And you never failed to take heed. I want to thank you for teaching me right from wrong and yes, how a woman can be gentle, yet strong! I want to thank you for teaching me that by giving, I'd truly receive; for teaching me to be honest, truthful, to share and be kind. I want to thank you for teaching me the Golden Rule, to treat others as I wished to be. You always said, "That how I treated others would come back to me". You led by example and not just by talk, in your daily living You truly walked that walk. You were my Momma and you were the best, and I rejoice in my very soul for knowing, how truly I was blessed! So on this Mother's Day I honor you with a grateful heart For there is no card or gift to bring you this day; For heaven's gate is much too far away! Barbara J. Ervin-Weymouth ©Copyright, May 1, 2004 All Rights Reserved -<>- _,==,==,_ /\/=`==`\/) /\|=\o\,-.,'|\,-; |-; /\/'8._.'/\8o |.-; .-\ \|=\8o_,o8o.; / .'-. `-._`o8/\/.'_/-.8/`|o.--.-` .-`8'.o|=\8o'.__\-.8'-.-'` `-._.-"\/"o/ \8_'-.|\_/`. (_.__=,\.' _ = __) (__._.__,` - __,_.) \_ =-__ / jgs `-. ________.-' >SOMEBODY'S MOTHER "The woman was old and ragged and gray And bent with the chill of a Winter's day. The street was wet with a recent snow, And the woman's feet were aged and slow. She stood at the crossing and waited long, Alone uncared for amid the throng Of human beings who passed her by Nor heeded the glance of her anxious eye. Down the street with laughter and shout, Glad in the freedom of "school let out," Came the boys like a flock of sheep, Hailing the snow piled white and deep; Past the woman so old and gray Hastened the children on their way; Nor offered a helping hand to her So meek, so timid, afraid to stir Lest the carriage wheels or the horses' feet Should crowd her down in the slippery street. At last one came of the merry troop, The gayest laddie of all the group; He paused beside her and whispered low, "I'll help you cross, if you wish to go." Her aged hands on his strong young arm She placed, and so, without hurt or harm, He guided the trembling feet along Proud that his own were firm and strong. Then back again to his friends he went, His young heart happy and well content. "She's somebody's mother, boys, you know, For all she's aged, and poor, and slow, And I hope some fellow will lend a hand To help my mother, you understand. "If ever she's poor and old and gray, When her own dear boy is far away." And "somebody's mother" bowed low her head In her home that night, and the prayer she said Was, "God be kind to the noble boy, Who is somebody's son, and pride and joy!" by Mary Don Brine -<>- ,"=-. / _),`'". ( /a( ), ) ) C = = ?/ ( )) (_ o-< ) ( `-' \; ( \_ ( | \ ) )| \_/} \ \ \(_;/-|_) )/) `._,--/ / / `!__!! ( (_o)) ---`-._, )--- ------( / |---- | ( | :__/|\_; \ |/ )(\_ /_)--` gpyy \_! >"WHAT IS A MOTHER? It takes a Mother's love to make a house a home, A place to be remembered, no matter where we roam. It takes a Mother's patience, to bring a child up right, And her courage and her cheerfulness to make a dark day bright. It takes a Mother's thoughtfulness to mend the hearts deep "hurts" And her skill and her endurance to mend little socks and shirts. It takes a Mother's kindness to forgive us when we err, To sympathize in trouble and bow her head in prayer. It takes a Mother's wisdom to recognize our needs And to give us reassurances by her loving words and deeds. It takes a Mother's endless faith, her confidence and trust To guide us through the pitfalls of selfishness and lust. And that is why in all this world, there could not be another Who could fulfill God's purposes as completely as a MOTHER!" by Helen Steiner Rice >Updated FUN STUFF URLS - Oh Yeah, Shangy! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/urls.html FUN URLS ---------------------------------------------------------------------- -->ShangyFunList AD RATES: $35 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 Foundational Teaching Seminar 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 **********************************************************************