Happy Blessed Thanksgiving! ... :) 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! THANK YOU! ================ __ __ ,-' `' \ _---``-- / _ _ ; __ `. / / `' \; /`----- ) / .-/ ,( ), \-. ; | \( \ / )/; | - _5 `7 -; / ( ___-' `-____ | ( ___`-_ \ ____| \ / `,/ \ _(\__ / \ \ ; \ .' /' `i. / | | \ _-'( _\__-/ `- | | ` ,` `_ | BP * Don't forget to follow us on social media for our latest updates and uproarious funny and inspiring pages! On Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/y8dcm8x7 On X (Twitter): http://tinyurl.com/n5uf3dxv ================ |_| _, _ _ ___ | |(_||_)|_)\_| .'=:-\ ___ | | ._| /.='( ` | |_ _ ,_ |/ , _ . .,_ _ /. ^=.'-._..---. | | |(_|| ||\/_)(_|||/|| |(_| | =^.'=.'^//"(_`\\)8, ._| ._| |^.'=' .=||/' `\||;8.-' \'.^,=^'.||; ; ||8/:_,_ give thanks... './-`\= \\\.-./;//,_/`- \ jgs \__/-/'-\888::((()),_ /:. .O__/ (_88:::(())):. `8':. ' *~* For Those Celebrating Thanksgiving Today... We have much to be thankful to God for this year. He has gotten rid of those leaders who hate God and our country and have replaced them with President Trump and others who love God and our country! God, through Christ, is back in control and guiding them to restore our country back with Godly faith, family, and a great capitalist economy again. God, with President Trump, is turning our ship around from the downward devastation spiral it was in like we have seen happen to other countries like Cuba and Venezuela. Praise God! President Trump through ICE is getting rid of the nasty illegal child traffickers and criminals Biden let in by the thousands and working to secure our sovereignty as a country under God with godly laws and morals. President Trump, with God's guidance, is working to restore our freedom of religion, speech and prosperity. He is bringing prices for goods and services back down from Biden's high inflation as rapidly as he can. The high fuel and goods prices from their wasteful green deal agenda will eventually turn around as Trump's plans and deregulations bring them back down to before Biden caused them to sky rocket - making us all pay dearly. We just have to be patient and trust God. Thanking Him for His many blessings through Christ Jesus our beloved Lord. Hug your family, support our God given country and keep the faith! God's Best Blessings to you and yours ALWAYS through Christ! -<>- >From Our Friend DebbieR :) 'We have Thanksgiving as a holiday because of a woman, Sarah Josepha Hale, she campaigned for 36 years to declare a day 'solely dedicated to gratitude.' When Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving as a national holiday, he asked that we remember to pray for 'all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners, and sufferers.' Lincoln also asked that we pray for 'the Almighty hand to heal the wounds of the nation and restore it.' His proclamation ended with four words. Peace, harmony, tranquility, and union - what the Wampanoags provided when they met 102 pilgrims. All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 --- ...Beautiful! Thank You DebbieR! _..----...__ .-" `"-. | | |__.==========.____| | | .======. | | ____ | | | | | | _.-' ""--.._ |__| '======' |___ | .' '-. _.-'`` '==========' ``""'--.._ / \' '. / ,,,,,,,,, |._.,,;;;''''''''';;;;;;;;;, | ; .;;;;;;;;;;;\ | ,;;;;;| .) .) `;;;;;;;;, / | /;;;;;;;;;;;;;;| ;;;;;/ (_ ';;;;;;;-'` | /;;;;;;;;;;;;;;|| ;;;;;| `;;;;;; | |;;;;''' '/| ';;;;\ '----' ;;;;;' | |;;;' (' (' \\ `''''`---.___.- __;;''` ; |;;' _) \`) |~\ .-' '---'` ``"-. \ |;;;, .___. |/ / \_/__ _/\ _..,/`\ '-._ \"` `-' .'--"----"; `; '-..-/ \| `;;,--`-._____...-' ; ; ; `; \| || / `\ ; ' . ; \ || / / .-""-.\ . ; ; . ; || /`-./ // \\ ; ' . ; | || ; | `'--./| \'. ; ; ' | || | | | \-' ' ; | || | \ \ \ _ ; ' . | |/ \ >--------'. ` `''-._ , ; ; ;'-. _/' \/ '-._ \`'--. / `, / `'---...___/ / ,/---. /\ / \ ; `"""` ; \`- / / \ / \ ; ,-' /-' \ / \'----'----{ .' \ / \ `""` __..-' / \'----..------'''`` / / \ | .-' / \ | | \ / / \ ) '. .'----; ;------; '-._ _.-'___ | |____ | `'--..._______...--'` //__//__| //__//__| jgs | _| _|_ .--'`---` .--'`---` \ |__.\|___.\\_\ ( ( | / / `""\_____..__'.______..___/ \___.-\___.-._____/ Martha Stewart and I finally agree on something. Actually I was surprised. When she was asked the best time for the Thanksgiving dinner, she said 2pm. That is when I like having what I call brunch here every day and the time I plan on having our Thanksgiving dinner too. With the grandkid in school and me a bit slower these days, it often doesn't get eaten until around 3pm. But at least my target is the same as Martha Stewart the American businesswoman, writer, and television personality known for her expertise in home and hospitality! I am pleased and blessed. :) Many will have Thanksgiving Celebrations Today so here we have some Great 'Thanks Living' Bible Teachings From our friends at www.TruthOrTradition.com: 1 of 2 Thanks: The Joy of Thanksgiving https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lifogbJpowo 2 of 2 Thanks: The Benefits of Thanks Living https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRJVZ3wN2FU A Key to Being Thankful: You Can Never Go Back, Don't Live in the Past, Be Present Minded https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJt78NfS69E --- ...I Especially Thank God For ALL Of You! God's Best Blessings To You, My Dear Sweet Friends! :) -<>- >-->HOT Off The 'Shangy' Press :) Our too hot to handle new page is from our friend LouiseAu. This is a great page to inspire bible verse retention. It has many to put you in a positive frame of minds so you can be most thankful to God for all He does for you. Be sure to check this out here... , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' Biblical Advice! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/bibleadvice.html --- ...A wonderfully beautiful inspiration! Thank you LouiseAu! =========================================================== >-->From Heartwarmers: "Beggar that I am, I am even poor in thanks." -- Shakespeare, Hamlet, Act II We wrap up our Thanksgiving celebration today with two very special messages. First, a marvelous PoppyK poem about "The Thankful Box", and then, a short story from Jaye Lewis about her most memorable Thanksgiving. We are thankful for many things, but most of all, YOU! Have a safe and joyous holiday weekend. _ _|_|_ ,|_| |_|_ || | | |_| || | | | | || | | | | _|| | | | | ||)\ ^ ^ ^ | || | | || | | || | | \\ | \\ / ejm )\ ( / \ \ / \ \ \ \ >THE THANKFUL BOX It's just a little box that we use at this time each year, But what is in that little box will always bring a tear. It's something that we do each year for all to benefit, Everyone has placed a little note inside of it. We all named it our "thankful box" and what the notes will say, Are all the things we're thankful for on this Thanksgiving Day. One of us will read the notes as we all sit around, And slowly read what each note says and what we've written down. We do not sign the little notes or put our names on it, But as the little notes are read we know just who they fit. Sometimes the notes are thankful for a loving mom and dad, Sometimes the notes are thankful for a victory that they had. Sometimes the notes are thankful for a husband or a wife, Sometimes the notes are thankful for a new start with their life. A new one in the family will draw a note or two, Especially if the stork has brought it to our family new. Each year we read the little notes and then we laugh and cry, Realizing that this year has almost passed us by. The year is drawing to a close and there has been some change, Some thankful things are near to us but some are out of range. This year as we read the notes they seemed to ring out clear, We didn't take for granted many things we had this year. Some things that were read from the notes we never heard before, It seemed we took them all for granted until this new war. Thankful for our freedom... yes, the words now come alive. Thankful for our way of life and not just to survive. Thankful that we have a home with friends and family, Living free and just enjoying all that we can see. Having laws and government that still protect our rights, Having those in charge so we sleep peaceful through our nights. Yes, this year has made our thankful box more meaningful, But the last note found inside our box made life seem beautiful. Scribbled in a crayon were some printed words in blue, We knew one of the kids had done it, which one, no one knew. They always needed help to write, so this was very odd, It was just a simple message that spelled out, "Thank You God." -- James "PoppyK" Kisner ___________________________________________ PoppyK is Heartwarmer's Poet Laureate. His poetic stories offer hope, peace and joy in times of trials and tribulations. -<>- , |\ | `-._,="""=, \ //o.-)-.\ \ ||/:/:\:\-. `. \\\:\:/:/o_), jgs `->>>8888>;(_)o.-' >THE RICHEST THANKSGIVING OF ALL It was November, 1976. I had just moved back to Jacksonville, Florida, with my three young daughters after many years away. We were struggling, and I wondered what kind of a Thanksgiving I was going to be able to have for my children. We were living in a small trailer, and I was looking for a job while trying to convince my girls, and myself, that this was all an adventure. My youngest child, Helen, was barely three years old. But from the beginning of her first lisped words, Helen seemed to have a sense of decency and wisdom way beyond her years. The children were all excited about Thanksgiving. The anticipated feast was all the girls talked about. Two days before Thanksgiving, there was a flash fire in a nearby home, and a young family lost everything. The entire community became involved in the rescue of the couple and their young daughter. Shelter was donated by a church, and it seemed that everyone was involved in the collection of food, household items, bedding and clothes. I was thankful that even I was able to spare a few things. Brigades of busy people willingly donated their time, as well as money. I was certain the tragedy was especially hard for the family this close to Thanksgiving, and I was grateful that someone was available to come to our house and pick up our donated items. Helen was very thoughtful for one so young, and I made myself a little crazy imagining what she must be thinking about the fire. Finally, on the afternoon before Thanksgiving, two lovely women came to our house to collect our donations. How I wished I had more to give, I said, as I helped carry the donations out. They reassured me that the family would be well provided for. The girls and I stood outside chatting, as the ladies climbed back into their station wagon. All of a sudden Helen shrieked, " WAIT! Don't anybody move!" She streaked into the trailer door, crying aloud, "WE FORGOT SOMETHING!" I looked apologetically at the ladies, but before I could follow her, Helen was back outside, holding onto her favorite teddy bear -- the bear that I had made for her birthday, just two months before. Helen held out the bear, her green eyes searching my face. "Mommy," Helen implored, "the little girl doesn't have any toys. She needs this bear! I have to give it to her." My heart quaked. I thought about the few toys Helen had and how many hours I had spent sewing that little bear. Now she wanted to give it away. We stood in stunned silence, the ladies staring at me. I struggled with my feelings. All the love I'd put into that bear. All the things we needed and didn't have. Surely Helen could find another toy. Then I stooped down to face Helen, who was still holding out the bear -- worry lines creasing her little forehead. I searched her little heart shaped face, my fingers brushing aside her red- gold hair. My eyes filled as I realized that my heart would never be as big as the heart pounding in that little chest. My voice broke, as I said, "Of course, Helen, you're right. We forgot the toy. How thoughtful of you to remember." Helen, grinning, handed over the beautiful bear. When the ladies drove away, I took my little girl and held her close. For she had made our Thanksgiving the richest Thanksgiving of all. -- Jaye Lewis ___________________________________________ Jaye is a Heartwarmer Gem and lives with her family in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of southwestern Virginia. Jaye says, "This is a true story about my daughter, Helen, who is now 28 years old. Helen is studying to be an engineer. She still has red-gold hair and green eyes, and she is still one of the most remarkable people I've ever known." =========================================================== >-->From Daily Encounter: , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Thankful Prayers 'Enter into his gates with thanksgiving,and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.'1 When my children were very young I joined a mom's prayer group at their school. Right after drop-off, several of us would gather for 30 min to pray over our children and their teachers and staff. Our prayers would begin with praise as each of us would take turns praising God by his name and attributes. Next, our prayers would turn to thanksgiving as each of us expressed thankfulness as it came to us. And finally, we would end our time bringing our petitions before the Lord. Almost every time, we found that our 'thanksgiving' took up the greatest part of our prayer time. Praying in this fashion allowed us to prioritize our prayer and it became no surprise that when we began by praising the Lord's attributes, it was so easy to fall into an attitude of thanksgiving. No matter what we need to pray for, thanksgiving can always go with it! Years later, I still find myself following this prayer pattern. Whenever I have to travel somewhere with my kids, we have made it a point to begin our journey with prayer (a habit learned from my Dad). We usually start praying as we pullout of the driveway and continue while we drive. One day, when my daughter opened her eyes after saying Amen, she exclaimed, Wow!, we had a lot to be thankful for, look how far we got! Losing ourselves in our prayer time is such a beautiful feeling! We all have a few moments every day, whether intentional or while driving, to pray. I encourage you to begin with Thanksgiving. Start simple, 'Thank you, Father, for this new day', or 'God, you are awesome, I appreciate everything you do for me.' Let's be thankful and watch as we grow closer to God with each 'Thank You'! Suggestedprayer: Thank You, Father, for all you have done for me. Help me to make gratitude the focus of each of my prayers to you. Let me be thankful before anything else. Thank you for being patient with me as I learn to rely on you. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray, Amen. 1. Psalm 100:4 (KJV). Today's Encounter was written by: Veronica B. --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...So true and positive! This was a mind renewer for me. Check out this verse: Eph.1 [3] Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: Notice it says - 'hath blessed'. This was brought to my attention. Means he has already given it to us. Given what? 2 Cor.9: [8] And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: Again notice it says 'always having all sufficiency in all things'? ALWAYS is the key word here along with ALL things. Not talking about greed - but sufficiency - all that you need. Think of it as God holding a bag full of all your necessities. God may automatically give these to you as you need them, but that is not what the bible says. Notice it says 'able to make all grace abound to you'. What is the key? Thanksgiving. Once you thank God for what He has already gotten for you, you get it... Ephesians 5: 20 -- Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; See this teaching: Act First and Then You See http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/Act_First_and_Then_You_See.htm Like any good parent, God expects 'Please and Thank You' - as a child we are taught to be gracious and respectful. If a child is not grateful, then we are less inclined to give them things. "What do you say?', we ask as a parent. The child says, 'Please?' and we nod and give it to the child. Once we do, we hold on to it though, to teach further and ask, 'What do you say now?' The child says, 'Thank you!' and we smile and release it to the child. Our Father is the same. He expects us to thank Him first, then we will receive it into manifestation. A little humility and appreciation to our loving God and Father isn't too much to ask of us. The hard part is our understanding that he HATH given it to us already and is simply waiting for our 'THANK YOU' to release it to us. That is why we need to be thankful and thank God without ceasing. He is awesome and most loving and giving... Psalm 92: 1 - 5 'It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night, Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery; upon the harp with a solemn sound. For thou, Lord, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands. O Lord, how great are thy works! and thy thoughts are very deep.' God loves this. However, this is how God views those with ingratitude and against him lifestyles... Rom.1: [21] Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. So it continues to say... [26a] For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` See These teachings: Be Ye Thankful http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/Be_Ye_Thankful.htm God is our Sufficiency http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Promises/God_is_our_Sufficiency.htm The Promises of God http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Promises/Promises.htm <:))))>< , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Being Successful "Where there is no vision, the people perish."1 David Levenson has written a book titled, The Seasons of a Man's Life. In examination of the factors that contribute to the development, growth, and success of people, he discovered three primary factors that seem to be essential to success. "The first is a great vision - a driving dream that moves and motivates you to do something [worthwhile] with your life. Those who give themselves to the fulfillment of something worthwhile experience a great sense of accomplishment. The second thing common to the successful people he studied was that they had each found a teacher who could instruct and help them along the way. Not only do we need a vision, we need some folks who have had visions before us, who can walk beside us and point the way. There was another commonality among these successful people. They each had a deeply personal and significant relationship with at least one other person, someone who would support them in accomplishing their dreams. These were the folks who would walk with them through the difficult times, even when it seemed as though the dream would never come true. In short, they had a friend."2 We do not have to be famous to be successful... all we need is a vision, a good teacher, and a faithful, supporting friend. We should also seek to have a vision that is in alignment with the will of God for us. Suggested prayer: Dear God, please help me to know what my God-given life purpose is and a realistic goal to work towards fulfilling that purpose. Give me a clear vision of what you want me to be and do, a good teacher to show me how to do it, and at least one trusted friend to support and encourage me along the way. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, amen. 1. Proverbs 29:18 (KJV). 2. Cited on http://www.sermons.com/. Today's Encounter was written by: Crystal B. When copying or forwarding include the following: "Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2016 ACTS International. --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...Check out this teaching How To Avoid Being A Failure https://tinyurl.com/4cxymddy =========================================================== >-->From Archives InspiredBuffalo: ,sdPBbs. ,d$$$$$$$$b. d$P'`Y'`Y'`?$b d' ` ' \ `b / | \ \ / / \ | \ _,--' | \ | /' _/ \ | \ _/' /' | \ `-.__ __/' ,-' / | | \ `--...__ /' / | / \ \ `-. `\ / /;;,,__-' / / \ \ `-. / |;;;;;;;\ \ >Tomorrow Will Be Anxious for Itself An ancient Chinese parable tells of Old Tan Chang who had a small farm overshadowed by a towering mountain. One day he got the notion to get rid of the mountain. With the help of his wife and sons, he began to hack at the rock around its base. A neighbor walked by and scoffed, "You will never finish the job, old man! There are not enough days in the year for you to do this." But Tan replied confidently, "I am not as foolish as you think, my friend. I may be old and feeble, but after I am gone, my sons will continue to peck away at the mountain. Then their sons and their sons'' sons will do the same. Since the mountain cannot grow, someday it will be level with the ground, and the sun will shine upon our land." Many of the problems we cannot eliminate instantly can be moved one piece at a time, one day at a time. Did not Jesus share in Matthew 6: 25-34 read a few moments ago, "So do not be anxious about tomorrow, tomorrow will be anxious for itself." -Eric S. Ritz, www.Sermons.com -<>- .========. .-| |-. .''-'`_.|__ __ __|._`'-''. / .--'` | [LI] | `'--. \ .' / _.--'''""""'''--._ \ '. /` .' .-' _.----._ '-. '. `\ | / / .' _ _ '. \ \ | | | | / `_ _` \ | | | / / '. | (o)(o) | .' \ \ | | '._| .-""-. |_.' | | | \ / | \ / | \ / | / / | / \ /\/\ / \ | \ \ | | / | '-.( ).-' | \ | | | | | / \`""`/ \ | | | \ \ / | _.-| |-._ | \ / / \ \ | / .' | | '. \ | / / '. './ | .' / \ '. | \.' .' '._| \/ \/ |_.' `'{` , , `}'` { } { } { } { } { } { } \,/ \,/ '. .' jgs '-.__ __.-' { _}""{_ } / \ / \ /=/=|=| |=|=\=\ \/\/\_/ \_/\/\/ >Out of necessity... Thanksgiving at our house has required last-minute change. Please be advised the following notes are to help you arrive fully prepared. 1. Our sidewalk will not be lined with homemade, paper bag luminaries. After a trial run, it was decided that no matter how cleverly done, rows of flaming lunch sacks do not have the desired welcoming effect. 2. Once inside, our guests will note that the entry hall is not decorated with the swags of Indian corn and fall foliage I had planned to make. Instead, I've gotten the kids involved in the decorating by having them track in colorful autumn leaves from the front yard. The mud was their idea. 3. The dining table will not be covered with expensive linens, fancy china, or crystal goblets. If possible, we will use dishes that match and everyone will get a fork. Since this IS Thanksgiving, we will refrain from using the plastic Peter Rabbit plate and the Santa napkins from last Christmas. 4. Our centerpiece will not be the tower of fresh fruit and flowers that I promised. Instead we will be displaying a hedgehog-like decoration hand-crafted from the finest construction paper. The artist assures me it is a turkey. 5. We will be dining fashionably late. The children will entertain you while you wait. I'm sure they will be happy to share every choice comment I have made regarding Thanksgiving, pilgrims and the turkey hotline. Please remember that most of these comments were made at 5:00 AM upon discovering that the turkey was still hard enough to cut diamonds. As accompaniment to the children's recital, I will play a recording of tribal drumming. If the children should mention that I don't own a recording of tribal drumming, or that tribal drumming sounds suspiciously like a frozen turkey in a clothes dryer, ignore them. They are dramatizing too much. 6. We toyed with the idea of ringing a dainty silver bell to announce the start of our feast. In the end, we chose to keep our traditional method. We've also decided against a formal seating arrangement. When the smoke alarm sounds, please gather around the table and sit where you like. In the spirit of harmony, we will ask the children to sit at a separate table... in a separate room... next door. 7. Now, I know you have all seen pictures of one person carving a turkey in front of a crowd of appreciative onlookers. This will not be happening at our dinner. For safety reasons, the turkey will be carved in a private ceremony. I stress "private" meaning: Do not, under any circumstances, enter the kitchen to laugh at me. Do not send small, unsuspecting children to check on my progress. I have an electric knife. The turkey is unarmed. It stands to reason that I will eventually win. When I do, we will eat. 8. I would like to take this opportunity to remind my young diners that "passing the rolls" is not a football play. Nor is it a request to bean your sister in the head with warm tasty bread. 9. Oh, and one reminder for the adults: For the duration of the meal, and especially while in the presence of you diners, we will refer to the giblet gravy by its lesser-known name: Cheese Sauce. If a young diner questions you regarding the origins or type of Cheese Sauce, plead ignorance. Cheese Sauce stains. 10. Before I forget, there is one last change. Instead of offering a choice among 12 different scrumptious desserts, we will be serving the traditional pumpkin pie, garnished with whipped cream and small fingerprints. You will still have a choice; take it or leave it. Martha Stewart will not be dining with us this Thanksgiving. She probably won't come next year either. I am thankful. -<>- .-""-._ / ___/ \ _&_ _.--""|/ `\| // \\ .' ( ^/ ^ )'. / / \ \ / | _ | \ // / \ \\ | _\____/ | /_/_/_\_\_\ | .' \____/-._ | .-"-. | / `; /# \ | / / _|_.---\ | | |.-.; :--.-(_/.____/.-""\___/"-. / \ / ~~/ /\ \{"=.______.="} /--. ; /___/_~~/ ; .--\"=...__...="} / \-/ `\______|/ \-.______..-; | /`| | \ | |||| || | /_ | |_______/ | |||| || | \_/| |-------' |--'||'--._|| | | | | || |> |______| |____________|._ || _..-;| | [___] | `||() || |______ |\/|____________|jgs|| () (__) \__/ (__) () >Its Not Easy Lets be honest. Ethics is not for wimps. Its not easy being a good person. Its not easy to be honest when it might be costly, to play fair when others cheat, or to keep promises that are inconvenient. Its not easy to stand up for our beliefs and still respect differing viewpoints. Its not easy to control powerful impulses, to be accountable for our attitudes and actions, to tackle unpleasant tasks, or to sacrifice the now for later. Its not easy to bear criticism and learn from it without getting angry, to take advice, or to admit error. Its not easy to feel genuine remorse and apologize sincerely or to accept an apology graciously and truly forgive. Its not easy to stop feeling like a victim, to resist cynicism, or to make the best of every situation. Its not easy to be consistently kind, to think of others first, to judge generously, or to give the benefit of the doubt. Its not easy to be grateful or to give without concern for reward or gratitude. Its not easy to fail and still keep trying, to learn from failure, to risk failing again, to start over, to lose with grace, or to be glad of anothers success. Its not easy to look at ourselves honestly and be accountable, to avoid excuses and rationalizations, or to resist temptations. No, being a person of character is not easy. Thats why its such a lofty goal and an admirable achievement. -Michael Josephson -<>- , (`-.-/( .:::::., `-.__) ``:\:: . /7_.-, '. -. - - `:::' .- ( `_.= \ `--._ / _?'` ___.-' -`"' \ - / )----'''' - .-' `--.. `--' ,' .-' `\ --' )---'' ) ) | _| ( \ L / | \ )__ _ \ \ `---' `--' L \ | \ \ \ L ) L_ ( \ | \ . J a:f | `. \ _.-`--=' \ ) ( _-' `--'\ '"' / ' J (,_./ >The Wind Doth Blow Clara Wersterfer Standing on the lookout point on the mountain the wind blew with such force one couldn't raise your head or open the eyes wide enough to see the scenic overview of the beautiful valley below. I sought the shelter of the gift shop and sat, angry that I couldn't stand on the crest of the mountain and enjoy the view. The gale force wind had spoiled my Sunday outing. I had always disliked wind. As a child, it was difficult for Mother to get me to go outside to play on windy days. When the temperatures dropped, the wind chill factor made it seem so much colder. Papers from overfull trash cans blew into our yard. It was my job to pick them up. Mom's pot plants turned over on our front porch, spilling dirt breaking plants and pots. I hated the wind. My husband and I bought a house on three acres of land. Seemed that all I did was pick up twigs and small branches from the yard to prevent the lawn mower from grinding them and dulling the blades. More reason to hate the wind. Shortly before Christmas that year, a friend I hadn't seen in a while, paid me a surprise visit. When I answered the door, the wind was blowing hard. "Look what the wind blew in" laughed my friend. "This is the first time in my life I appreciate the wind since it blew you my way" I retorted as we hugged. "Are you kidding me? I love the wind." Jan said, settling in an easy chair. "Think of all the good things it does. It carries plant and flower seeds from one place to another. Combs all the dead twigs and limbs out of the trees, making them easier to pick up. Pushes the beautiful sailboats around on the waterways. It even blows dirt from one place to another, changing paths. It strips the leaves from the trees to make room for new ones, depositing them on the ground to protect your plants from freezing. The wind works harder than the sun, moon or rain. Think of hot summer days when a nice, cooling breeze comes along and fans your body. Those lovely little breezes are baby winds. I could go on and on about the wonders of the wind. My thoughts are that it is one of God's special things that He made for our benefit. In His wisdom, knowing our needs, He provided the wind." Suddenly I felt very ashamed for having berated poor Mr Wind all these years. My friend had given me a different perspective on one of God's most valuable creations. Henceforth the wind would receive more respect from me and a lot less complaints. I even sent a Thank You note attached to my prayers that night. -<>- |><|~|><| /(((9)))\ //) -_- (\\ (((( ._. )))) ))))---(((( ((((`---')))) (___|xXxXx|___) \ | | / / ^ ^ ^ \ / \ (_._._._._._) \ | / ( | ) | | | hjw |-|-| /`-^-'\ (__,^.__) >-->(Tissue Alert) Daddy's Poem (for all of us missing our loved ones) Her hair was up in a pony tail, her favorite dress tied with a bow. Today was Daddy's Day at school, and she couldn't wait to go. But her mommy tried to tell her, that she probably should stay home. Why the kids might not understand, if she went to school alone. But she was not afraid; she knew just what to say. What to tell her classmates of why he wasn't there today. But still her mother worried, for her to face this day alone. And that was why once again, she tried to keep her daughter home. But the little girl went to school eager to tell them all. About a dad she never sees a dad who never calls. There were daddies along the wall in back, for everyone to meet. Children squirming impatiently, anxious in their seats One by one the teacher called a student from the class. To introduce their daddy, as seconds slowly passed. At last the teacher called her name, every child turned to stare. Each of them was searching, a man who wasn't there. 'Where's her daddy at?' She heard a boy call out. 'She probably doesn't have one,' another student dared to shout. And from somewhere near the back, she heard a daddy say, 'Looks like another deadbeat dad, too busy to waste his day.' The words did not offend her, as she smiled up at her Mom. And looked back at her teacher, who told her to go on. And with hands behind her back, slowly she began to speak. And out from the mouth of a child, came words incredibly unique. 'My Daddy couldn't be here, because he lives so far away. But I know he wishes he could be, since this is such a special day. And though you cannot meet him, I wanted you to know. All about my daddy, and how much he loves me so. He loved to tell me stories he taught me to ride my bike. He surprised me with pink roses, and taught me to fly a kite. We used to share fudge sundaes, and ice cream in a cone. And though you cannot see him. I'm not standing here alone. 'Cause my daddy's always with me, even though we are apart I know because he told me, he'll forever be in my heart' With that, her little hand reached up, and lay across her chest. Feeling her own heartbeat, beneath her favorite dress. And from somewhere here in the crowd of dads, her mother stood in tears. Proudly watching her daughter, who was wise beyond her years. For she stood up for the love of a man not in her life. Doing what was best for her, doing what was right. And when she dropped her hand back down, staring straight into the crowd. She finished with a voice so soft, but its message clear and loud. 'I love my daddy very much, he's my shining star. And if he could, he'd be here, but heaven's just too far. You see he is a Canadian soldier And died just this past year When a roadside bomb hit his convoy and taught Canadians to fear. But sometimes when I close my eyes, it's like he never went away.' And then she closed her eyes, and saw him there that day. And to her mothers amazement, she witnessed with surprise. A room full of daddies and children, all starting to close their eyes. Who knows what they saw before them, who knows what they felt inside. Perhaps for merely a second, they saw him at her side. 'I know you're with me Daddy,' to the silence she called out. And what happened next made believers, of those once filled with doubt. Not one in that room could explain it, for each of their eyes had been closed. But there on the desk beside her, was a fragrant long-stemmed rose. And a child was blessed, if only for a moment, by the love of her shining star. And given the gift of believing, that heaven is never too far. Take the time...to live and love. Until eternity. God bless! -<>- >Links for Your Enjoyment :) The Giver And The Gift! http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/givergift.html Give Praise! http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/poems/praise.html Origami Dollar Art 2! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/dollarart2.html Grand Canyon Skywalk! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/skywalk.html Thankful For You! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/thankful.html 90/10 Principle! http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/giving.html Birth of An Island! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/island.html Thanksgiving Story Time! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/alices.html Car Show 2! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/carshow2.html Directions Home! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/home.html Until We Write Again! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/write.html Amazing Science Facts! http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/sciencefacts.html Amazing Subconscious Mind! http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/subconscious.html Silly Veggies! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/veggies.html Sgt. Stubby War Dog Hero! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/stubbywardog.html World's Fastest Cars! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/fastcars.html Bible Study: Our Valuable Anchor! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/BibleStudy/ouranchor.html Easy-Does-It Home Recipes!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/easy.html Fall And Thanksgiving Index! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/thanksgivingindex.html Christmas Index! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/christmasindex.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 Joy Is An INSIDE Job! http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/Joy_Is_An_INSIDE_Job.htm 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: VA provides Veterans relief from Biden-era backlogged medical bills VA will relieve Veterans of more than $272 million in potential medical bills that accrued after the Biden Administration stopped certain copayment claims processing and collections in early 2023. https://tinyurl.com/myb28p5x VA eliminates Veteran family health care backlog VA has completely eliminated the backlog of Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) applications. https://tinyurl.com/2wjztuwr 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 '---' >Calling God A Liar God desires that we know Him in an intimate and personal relationship. He has therefore revealed Himself and provided a way to know Him through the life and sacrifice of His Son; "Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father... Don't you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in Me?" (John 14:9-10). As we grow in our faith and begin to know Him better, it becomes essential to know the promises of His Word. But it's even more important to believe His promises are true! We may say we believe God's Word is true, but do our actions reflect our belief? 1 John 5:10 "Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made Him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about His Son." Yes, our old nature sometimes clouds our ability to clearly see the truth; and yes, some of God's truths can be hard to accept and actually put into practice. But we either believe His words and begin to take steps to apply them in our life, or we do not believe and call God a liar by the way we live. It may be a difficult process, but we must confront our beliefs and begin to make them real. When we face a trial and don't know which direction to turn, do we believe the words, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5-6)? Do we really believe that as we trust Him, He will remove the confusion and guide our steps? When our circumstances seem out of control, do we believe "in all things God works for the good of those who love Him" (Romans 8:28)? Do we really believe that as we continue to love Him, God works for the good in ALL things, regardless of our understanding? And when we feel alone, do we really believe God's promise to always be near; "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5). How about the promise of being content (Philippians 4:12), or being given the peace of Jesus (John 14:27), or the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23); can we really "do everything through Him who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13)? Parents, have we given up hope for our children or do we believe, "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it" (Proverbs 22:6)? God's Word is true and His promises are real!! Let's praise Him all the rest of our days and let our lives demonstrate we REALLY know and believe. Let's make sure our actions and decisions, fears and anxieties, hopes and dreams, are governed by truth and NOT based on calling God a liar. Have a Christ Centered Day! Steve Troxel God's Daily Word Ministries **** Reading Plan **** Ezekiel 39:1-40:27; James 2:18-3:18; Psalm 118:1-18; Proverbs 28:2 --- .--..-""""-..--. ///`/////////\`\\\ ||/ |///""\\\| \|| ## ( 6. 6 ) ## /_\ \ _. / /_\ _`) (`_ /` '--' `\ / _,,_ \ / /` `\ \ /\_/ / 6 6\ \_/\ \ \/\ Y /\/ / \ \/ `'U` \/ / \( \ / )/ |\_/ \_/| / ____ \ \ ( || ) / (__)||(__) | || | |__||__| jgs |==||==| /~`//~`/ / // / `""` `"` ...Oh, Oh, to be childlike in our faith in God our Father. Little children rarely question if their parent is telling them the truth. They have childlike innocence and believe what their mom or dad says. 2+2 = 4 and C A T spells cat and brush your teeth to keep them clean and wash your hands so you won't get sick - and on and on and on. That is what we need to do when our Father tells us things in the bible. We need to believe him and not call Him a liar by saying 'not me oh Lord' - instead say - 'OK. I can do it! I'm working on it!' <:))))>< , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Nothing Can Compare (edited) In the message "Calling God A Liar" we saw how the way we live directly reflects our true belief. If we do not follow His commands and trust His promises, we do not believe His Word and have effectively called God a liar. But as we draw near and give ourselves more fully into His hands, we learn that His promises are not only true, they are better than we imagined. When Abraham was over eighty years old, God taught him a lesson on trusting His promises. Abraham became frustrated with God because there was no one to inherit his possessions: "You have given me no children; so a servant in my household will be my heir" (Genesis 15:3). But God had other plans and made a promise to Abraham. Genesis 15:4-5 "'This man will not be your heir, but a son coming from your own body will be your heir.' He took him outside and said, 'Look up at the heavens and count the stars - if indeed you can count them.' Then He said to him, 'So shall your offspring be.'" Abraham waited many years for God's promise to be fulfilled. Finally, when he was one hundred years old, Isaac was born; and through Isaac came Jacob, and through Jacob came the sons who formed the twelve tribes of Israel. Abraham was looking for someone to inherit his "stuff," but God's promise gave him an entire nation. God gives many promises to us today, but they all flow from the promise first stated by Jesus; "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). We must not pass lightly over these words, for none of the other promises even apply until we have believed this basic truth. We cannot move on to the promises of peace and contentment until we trust in the promise of forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ. When we begin to understand the significance of the gift of eternal life, we will know that nothing the world can offer will EVER compare to the promises of God... and NOTHING else will last. His promise is the only path to true peace. If we could better understand and really believe, perhaps we would spend less time and effort on pursuits which contain no lasting value - perhaps we would have less anxiety about all those things which only God can control. Jesus shed His blood so we can truly live. His promise is greater than any worldly pleasure and outweighs ALL worldly trials; "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all" (2 Corinthians 4:17). As we walk through this world, with all its pulls, temptations, and near constant turmoil, let's hold tight to God's promise and always remember... NOTHING can compare! Have a Christ Centered Day! Steve Troxel God's Daily Word Ministries **** Reading Plan **** Ezekiel 47:1-48:35; 1 Peter 2:11-3:9; Psalm 119:53-70; Proverbs 28:12-13 ========================================================== ,(()). ,;;;;. __ ________ _____ ___ ((_ _));'_`'_( _| __ __ __ _| _| _| __ __ () \ /)\ ) / (_|__ _|-_| _(_|(_|(_|__ _|-- ((\ O(() \ O / _____(_|(_|_____________(_|_ SSt >I Want Performance Story Editor: by Betty Thompson Joyce Schowalter Mississippi, USA From 1973 to 1977, I was a member of the Liberty Central High School marching band. Our public school system was separated: the girls attended Liberty Attendance Center and the boys attended Liberty Central High School. The girls in the band were bussed to the boy's school for the 6th period band class. Band was one of my greatest accomplishments. I loved that class! It was literally made up of families. There were usually at least two or four members of the same family playing in that band. In my case, my sister, brother and first cousin were also in the band. The band was also one of Liberty's greatest accomplishments -- due in full to one of the best directors ever born. He was so multi-talented he should have been playing at Carnegie Hall. Instead he belonged to us. His name was Mr. Claude Harness. His motto was "I don't want excuses, I want performance." Believe me, performance was what he got. He instilled in us to be the best band, and under his leadership we were. He was not only our director; he cared about us as his students. Back in the day, I wasn't as self-assured as I am now. I came from a strict family and I wasn't allowed to do as I pleased or go where I pleased. The band gave me a chance to travel. Mr. Harness knew I was quiet person who did what I should. He always made a list of children he wanted to sit at the front of the bus... those who got into trouble if they sat in the back when they thought he wasn't looking. Out of curiosity I looked at the list. My name was on it. I was surprised! I overheard someone say, "Why is her name on the list? Everyone knows she wouldn't dare sit at the back of the bus." That hurt my feelings a little. I remember replying, "I don't have to look for a seat since I have been assigned one." Before we left for our trip, Mr. Harness called me into his office. He told me that he put my name on that list because I was a nice person and he knew that I didn't want to sit where trouble could arise. He also told me I didn't have to sit there; I could sit anywhere I wanted to. I thanked him and told him that I appreciated it because he was right. If Mr. Harness reads this I would like to say *thanks* and I have thought of you often through the years. Your thoughtfulness inspired me to always be my true self -- no matter what others may think. =======HeroicStories======= >-->From CupO'Cheer: _____ / \/_ //\__(\_\ |\ ^ ^ | .//_O \O_ \ \_ (_) / \ \_/ / __/\ /\__ / \ \ / / \ / \/\/\/ \ / | . | \ / | . | \ JRO >QUOTES How can you expect God to speak in that gentle and inward voice which melts the soul, when you are making so much noise with your rapid reflections? Be silent, and God will speak again. --Francoise de la Mothe Fenelon Give to the needy, sweet charity's bread. "Giving is living," the stranger said. "MUST I KEEP GIVING AND GIVING AGAIN?" my selfish quarrelsome spirit rang! "Oh no!" said the stranger, his eyes piercing through, "Just give... until the Lord stops ... giving to you!" --Ed Huffstetler We are all faced with a series of great opportunities, brilliantly disguised as unsolvable problems. Unsolvable without Gods wisdom, that is. With His wisdom, they are changed to great opportunities. That change depends on our perspective. We are faced with a problem that seems to have no human solution. And perhaps it doesnt. There is no end in view. It has all the marks of an endlessly impossible situation. But I have found this is the platform upon which God does His greatest work. The more impossible the situation, the greater God accomplishes His work. -- Charles Swindoll -<>- _ _|_|_ ,|_| |_|_ || | | |_| || | | | | || | | | | _|| | | | | ||)\ ^ ^ ^ | || | | || | | || | | \\ | \\ / ejm )\ ( / \ \ / \ \ \ \ >THE THANKSGIVING TIE "Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name: the upright shall dwell in thy presence." Psalm 140:13 What is your thanksgiving tied to? What is the foundation upon which it is based? I am so thankful for the blessings that the Lord has sent, and sends, my way. I never want to take them for granted. I want to exhibit a thankful heart to Him for them. He has blessed me with so much- a roof over my head, clothes on my back, food on my table, a loving family, dear friends, health and air to breath. I am thankful for these and more blessings. But my thanksgiving is not tied to my material/physical blessings. If your thanksgiving is tied to your blessings only, what do you do if those blessings are gone? What if you didn't have those things any more? What if you found yourself destitute of earthly provisions, material things or close relationships? How thankful would you be if all these blessings disappeared from your life? This is why, although we should be thankful for the blessings we see, they are not the foundation upon which our thanksgiving is based. I am thankful for something greater, something eternal -- my thanksgiving is tied to the cross, not material blessings. Treasures on earth may slip away, but treasures in heaven are eternal. And those treasures were provided through the shed blood of Jesus at the cross. So what is your thanksgiving tied to? Your material blessings or the cross which provided your eternal blessings? Have a great day. My thanksgiving has its foundation in the cross. What about yours? For further reading: Matthew 6:19,20; 25:21,23 Luke 10:20 Job 19:25,26 Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell and is sent to you free of charge for the asking from About the Master's Business Ministry, Inc. Please feel free to call (601) 833-5278 or Email: mastersbusiness@bellsouth.net Visit us on the web: www.mastersbusiness.org -<>- .---. .---. ,';' `.';' `.. f :Bo. ` d88: `\ /d88P' `\ ; /d888P' `. ',d8&8P' : ;d8&7' | :8: | qx >SUFFERING Many will find a suffering heart daily concluding before they start. Many forget how many each day would be in Heaven to be of our way. Many in time of suffering chance live as they do with smiles song and dance. Often ones suffering is better seen that of a fragrance leading to dream. Yet many people only will view all of their suffering a little askew. Yes we all suffer, but chances are made to make that suffering waters to wade. Search through it all the suffering days and find the blessings then to amaze. You might just find surprised thereunto that you have blessings living in you. By Bill Pearce -<>- _.------------------. .'____________________| // _|||| | | | | | ______//_\__j_|||"--" "--" | | _ /-----+-|p ==,|||__________|_|-|W| _j,====. |b_____||| _____ | |W| |_) ,---.`.`------'|.',---.`.___|_|W| `/ .-. \\`======__// .-. \`-----'"" \ `-' / """"""" \ `-' / `---' `---' hjw >HONK IF SOMETHING FALLS OFF (by Kerry S. Doyal - Grace Evangelical Free Church, www.GetGraced.org) [Edited] It may have been just a bumper sticker. It may have adorned no better than an old worn and dented blue pickup truck. But, it sure stirred my thinking. Hopefully it can do the same for yours. Conjure up the image of that truck as you thoughtfully read a few times its simple yet simply profound traveling message of wisdom. "Honk if something falls off." Did you see it? Do you see it? Yes, I know it was meant in a humorous vein, but it presented me (a preacher's curse / blessing) with some healthy life lessons and holy reminders. Allow me to lay them out here. First, it is no small matter to know and admit you are not perfect. Whether your life is like that humble truck, or be it a spotless, shiny Lexus (pick your favorite fancy vehicle), none of us are perfect. The sooner we admit that, the better off we all are. That truck owner knew he had a well worn means of transporta- tion. One susceptible to falling apart without notice. He did not need us to tell him he was not the picture of perfection. He knew it and wanted us to know he knew it. Wait a minute - you say - if he knew he might lose a part, he should not be on the road. Maybe so. But what guarantee do you have that you will never lose a piece in your travels? Let me be clear: living an "I'm not perfect, so get over it" life is not what we are advocating here. Admitting that your imperfect- tions show up on occasion is another matter. Second, this driver - God bless his sweet soul - assumes that people will be so kind as to inform him if he drops a chunk of truck on his journeys: a muffler, bumper, a hubcap, the transmission. With wear and age, the old truck may just accidentally litter the road. This is not something he wants, but knows may happen. Yet, he is an optimist. His expectation is that - brace yourself for some serious analogy abuse - as he travels down the road of life, his fellow travelers are on the same road he is on. If they see him lose something, they will let him know with a friendly, informative honk and maybe even a wave. Much like they would want him to do for them. Maybe this dear old driver doesn't get off the farm much. Most honking is not friendly. It may be informative, but what is being conveyed is not usually helpful information. Usually it is angry, critical, judging, shaming. Also, the waves that most often accompany a horn blast are often not full-fingered hand encounters - if you catch my drift. Indeed, if something of yours falls off in my lane of life, I'm going to let you hear about it alright. But so much for pity, compassion and understanding. Try condemnation, vilification and humiliation. The way we respond to people's imperfections, one would think their old trucky lives meant to drop pieces in our path, at us no less. "Accident? No way! That was personal. Don't try to tell me your humanity is showing. I know better." Oh for the assumption that if my imperfections crop up at an inconvenient time to you and unbeknownst to me, you will let me know, all the while assuming it was nothing personal. Please let me know, not every one else except me. Such a sweet and humble request: "Honk if something falls off." It speaks of community, a shared commitment to accept and watch after one another, to cover for one another. If one follows me long enough they will indeed see something (s) fall off. It is just going to happen. Do I want it? No. Can I prevent it. Sometimes, yes, but not all the time. Will it happen at a time and in a way that is inconvenient? Sadly, it probably will, possibly causing pain. Does it mean I wanted it to happen? God forbid! But if - I mean when - it does happen, may I ask a simple favor? One which I will try to return the best I can. Can we count on each other to honk if something falls off? Romans 15:7 "Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God." (NIV) Ephesians 4:29-32 "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (NIV) as seen in Laugh and Lift Available Free by E-mail every other day. To SUBSCRIBE: Send an e-mail with SUBSCRIBE CUP O'CHEER in the subject line to cheer316@sc.rr.com. You can find me on Facebook as Kimberly B. O'Brien Quiggle. ========================================================== >-->From LaughAndLift: Negative thoughts are like birds. You can't keep them from flying around your head, but you can keep them from building a nest in your hair. __ /_/\/\ \_\ / /_/ \ \_\/\ \ \_\/ unknown >The Man Who Walks on Water (By Marilyn Ferguson. Copyright 2005 Marilyn Ferguson. Used by permission. http://www.marilynspoetry.com) [Minor editing] Just as Peter on the lake I set out on a quest My boat is drifting out to sea God puts me to the test. The depth is deep, the width is wide A storm is setting in The waves are thrashing all about I feel a fear within. A figure looms, within the mist I tremble in the night He seems to walk on water My heart is filled with fright. "Fear not," says He, "Have courage," I do not bring you harm. For it is I who comes to save There's no need for alarm." He bids me walk on water His flowing robe, I see But I lose faith as I step out Upon the angry sea. My trust is gone, I start to sink I panic as I go I cry out "Lord, please save me!" Strong winds begin to blow. His staff is there before me His mighty hand comes out He plucks me from the churning sea Why did I ever doubt? Into the boat, the wind is still He calms the restless sea If He will soothe a violent storm He'll do the same for thee. Oh precious child of little faith You are God's son or daughter Look to the One who calms the sea The Man who walks on water. -<>- "God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say 'THANK YOU?'" - William A. Ward ####### ##[_]## ,;###########;, <<:{{\|@___@|/}}:>> <<:{{| ( /___\\) \}}:>> <<:{{/\ \\___/( /\}}:>> <<<<:{{| \ _.| |(_\/ |}}:>>>> <<<:{{|`\,'| '-' |'./`|}}:>>> <<<:{{|`\/ \___/ \/`|}}:>>> <<<:{{ \// ) ~ ~ ( \\/ }}:>>> <<:{{`{///' ~ ^ ~ '\\\}`}}:>>> <<:{{,=`. ~ ^.~.^ ~ .`=,}}:>> `-,__.__,-' \ | / jgs // \\ .---'( )'---. `---'-` `-'---` >Funny Story Time - Dogs and Yeast Rolls Do NOT Go Together (By Kathy Hewitt, Muskogee, OK) [Edited] We have a fox terrier by the name of Jasper. He came to us in the summer of 2001 from the fox terrier rescue program. For those of you who are unfamiliar with this type of adoption, imagine taking in a 10 year old child whom you know nothing about and committing to doing your best to be a good parent. Like a child, the dog came with his own idiosyncrasies. He will only sleep on the bed, on top of the covers, nuzzled as close to my face as he can get without actually performing a French kiss on me. Lest you think this is a bad case of 'no discipline', I should tell you that Perry and I tried every means to break him of this habit including locking him in a separate bedroom for several nights. The new door cost over $200. But I digress... Five weeks ago we began remodeling our house. Although the cost of the project is downright obnoxious, it was 20 years overdue AND it got me out of cooking Thanksgiving for family, extended family and a lot of friends that I like more than family most of the time. I was however assigned the task of preparing 124 of my famous yeast dinner rolls for the two Thanksgiving feasts we did attend. I am still upset at the electrician for getting the new oven hooked up so quickly. It was the only appliance in the whole house that worked, thus the assignment. I made the decision to cook the rolls on Wednesday evening to reheat on Thursday morning. Since the kitchen was freshly painted you can imagine the odor. Not wanting the rolls to smell like Sherwin Williams latex paint #586, I put the rolls on baking sheets and set them in the living room to rise for 5 hours. After 3 hours, Perry and I decided to go out to eat, returning in about an hour. An hour later the rolls were ready to go in the oven. It was 8:30 pm. When I went to the living room to retrieve the pans, much to my shock one whole pan of 12 rolls was empty. I called out to Jasper and my worst nightmare became a reality. He literally wobbled over to me. He looked like a combination of the Pillsbury dough boy and the Michelin Tire man wrapped up in fur. He groaned when he walked. I swear even his cheeks were bloated. I ran to the phone and called our vet. After a few seconds of uproarious laughter, he told me the dog would probably be OK, however, I needed to give him Pepto Bismol every 2 hours for the rest of the night. God only knows why I thought a dog would like Pepto Bismol any more than my kids did when they were sick. Suffice to say that by the time we went to bed the dog was black, white and pink. He was so bloated we had to lift him onto the bed for the night. Naively thinking the dog would be all better by morning was very stupid on my part. We arose at 7:30 and as we always do first thing; put the dogs out to relieve themselves. Well, there was a slight problem though - namely that the dog was drunk. He was running into walls, falling flat on his butt and most of the time when he was walking his front half was going one direction and the other half was either dragging the floor or headed 90 degrees in another direction. He couldn't lift his leg to pee, so he would just walk and pee at the same time. When he ran down the small incline in our back yard he couldn't stop himself and nearly ended up running into the fence. His pupils were dilated and he was as dizzy as a loon. I endured another few seconds of laughter from the vet (second call within 12 hours) before he explained that the yeast had fermented in his belly and that he was indeed drunk. He assured me that, not unlike most binges we humans go through, it would wear off after about 4 or 5 hours and to keep giving him Pepto Bismol. Afraid to leave him by himself in the house, Perry and I loaded him up and took him with us to my sister's house for the first Thanksgiving meal of the day. My sister lives outside of Muskogee on a ranch, (10 to 15 minute drive). Rolls firmly secured in the trunk (124 less 12) and drunk dog leaning from the back seat onto the console of the car between Perry and I, we took off. Now I know you probably don't believe that dogs burp, but believe me when I say that after eating a tray of risen unbaked yeast rolls, DOGS WILL BURP. These burps were pure Old Charter. They would have matched or beat any smell in a drunk tank at the police station. But that's not the worst of it. Now he was beginning to fart and they smelled like baked rolls. We endured this for the entire trip to Karee's, thankful she didn't live any further away than she did. Once Jasper was firmly placed in my sister's garage with the door locked, we finally sat down to enjoy our first Thanksgiving meal of the day. The dog was the topic of conversation all morning long and everyone made trips to the garage to witness my drunk dog, each returning with a tale of Jasper's latest endeavor to walk without running into something. Of course, as the old adage goes, "what goes in must come out" and Jasper was no exception. Granted if it had been me that had eaten 12 risen, unbaked yeast rolls, you might as well have put a concrete block up my behind, but alas a dog's digestive system is quite different from yours or mine. I discovered this was a mixed blessing when we prepared to leave Karee's house. Having discovered his "packages" on the garage floor, we loaded him up in the car so we could hose down the floor. This was another naive decision on our part. The blast of water from the hose hit the poop on the floor and the poop on the floor withstood the blast from the hose. It was like Portland cement beginning to set up and cure. We finally tried to remove it with a shovel. I (obviously no one else was going to offer their services) had to get on my hands and knees with a coarse brush to get the remnants off of the floor. And as if this wasn't degrading enough, the dog in his drunken state had walked through the poop and left paw prints all over the garage floor that had to be brushed too. Well, by this time the dog was sobering up nicely so we took him home and dropped him off before we left for our second Thanksgiving dinner at Perry's sister's house. I am happy to report that as of today (Monday) the dog is back to normal both in size and temperament. He has had a bath and is no longer tricolor. None the worse for wear I presume. I am also happy to report that just this evening I found 2 risen unbaked yeast rolls hidden inside my closet door. It appears he must have come to his senses after eating 10 of them but decided hiding 2 of them for later would not be a bad idea. 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 ========================================================== ..::''''::.. .:::. .;'' ``;. .... ::::: :: :: :: :: ,;' .;: () ..: `:::' :: :: :: :: ::. ..:,:;.,:;. . :: .::::. `:' :: .:' :: :: `:. :: '''::, :: :: :: `:: :: ;: .:: : :: : : :: ,:'; ::; :: :: :: :: :: ::,::''. . :: `:. .:' :: `:,,,,;;' ,;; ,;;, ;;, ,;;, ,;;, `:,,,,:' :;: `;..``::::''..;' ``::,,,,::'' >-->Thank You Isn't Enough - Tasha Layton & The Choir Room Lyrics: Verse 1 Got a resurrection story One I gotta tell How Jesus changed my life And Im still overwhelmed Some days arent so pretty But I know where I came from I stand amazed at everything my God has done CHORUS Thank you for the that air Im breathing Thank you for a life full of meaning Thank for a brand new start A broken heart thats finally beating Thank you for the joy that Im feelin Thank you for a new kind of freedom O Lord For all Youve done Got a million reasons POST CHORUS Thank You isnt enough Isnt enough Thank You isnt enough For this kind of love VERSE 2 If I had a thousand lifetimes To write a million songs And asked every angel to come sing along And if praises filled in the morning Hallelujahs in the night It wouldnt be enough But Im still gonna tr BRIDGE You turned grave clothes into white robes Put a testimony in my soul Lord, your goodness and mercy follow me All of the days of my life BREAKDOWN CHORUS Thank You for the that air Im breathing Thank You for a life full of meaning (Ohh) Thank you for the joy that Im feelin Thank you for a new kind of freedom O Lord For all Youve done Got a million reasons... OUTRO/BRIDGE You turned grave clothes into white robes Put a testimony in my soul Lord, your goodness and mercy follow me Written by Tasha Layton, Ricky Jackson, Jess Cates & eith Everett Smith - 025 BEC Recordings https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5X0R27TQRk --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...Joy Is An INSIDE Job! :) http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/Joy_Is_An_INSIDE_Job.htm __ / \ _/=Ll=\_ [________] ___ ||/""\|| .'___`. ( 6. 6 ) / /"""\ \ __, ,__, \_--_/ |( 6 6 )| (--| | .-[\~--~/]-. ~\_-_/~ |--| _ _ _ / \ / \ .-' '-. _| | (_||_)|_)\_| / _, `----' ,_ \ /\_____/\ ( |_, | | ,_| \ \| |/ / / ,_/^\_, \ \ >==[]==< / \_(_|-|_)_/ _______, \/__.''.__\/ //=====\\ (--| _, (_, | TT | // \\ | |_ _ ._ |__, , _ ' ',_ _ | || | // \\ _| | |(_|| || \ /_)(_||\/|| |(_| | || | /'---,___,---'\ ( |_, \_, ,_| ,_| |__||__| / / \ \ [__][__] '--,_________,--' jgs |_ || _| |_ | _| (__)(__) (__)__) >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 **********************************************************************