Give Us This Day

Long ago, during a particular period in time man was created.  He was granted all of the wonderful things this earth had to offer.  He had food in abundance, shelter when he needed it, water when he became thirsty and as if that wasn't enough, he was given a mate so he would not be alone.  He was also given certain restrictions so he could be held accoutable and learn to make good decisions which would always result in positive outcomes. 

But, something went wrong and we as a race of humans have never been able to get back on track... or so it seems that way to me.

Today, we wrestle relentlessly with simple things. Simple things like the pleasantries used in saying hello or goodmorning. Heck we can't even find a way to just look another person in the eye and crack a fake smile.

Look, I'm not perfect and I too have violated some of the aforementioned from time to time, but we must bring an end to these atrocities or there will be a payment demanded at our end, and if that should happen, hopefully it won't be like writing a check we can't cash.

Still puzzled?  Here are some additional pieces to the puzzle.

Well, just a couple of days ago, a professional baseball team in my neck of the woods got into a total bench clearing brawl, over pretty much nothing.  These "professionals" who we adore and pay handsomely, literally erased every single parent's speech to their kids about getting along, fair play and having respect for each other.  Some may say who cares... but I say, remember there were thousands of kids in attendance at that game; television and via the all powerful internet, watching and absorbing it all. This discounted behavior will become more than a fairy tale, it will be recreated and played out line by line, by one of our sweet and innocent little ones on the soccer, baseball, fields at parks and playgrounds worldwide.  Seeing is Believing!

I also remember when people would stop their busy day and come together for justice and everything that represented what was right.  They could actually sit down at the table and hold a discussion about unpopular issues and then somehow miraculously agree to disagree and even shake hands before departing.

Wow, talk about setting and being an example of maturity and wisdom. 

So... what went wrong with those of whom, we the people elected?  Those who swore to represent you and I in our cities, towns, states and congress?  Now, they publicly argue almost to the point of violence and lie, cheat and scheme their way back into re-election.  Or, did they just, NOT get that particular memo?

Just a few years ago, on the eve of one of America's greatest tragedies (9-11), we're faced with dealing worldwide with one single, little known man in Florida, who has decided to burn the Quran in front of the world to make his point.  This situation has and still effects everyone from the "Whitehouse, to your house".  This could possibly have brought an end to all the hard work and dedication we all have invested to make this world a better place live. 

Maybe these things tend to reopen the spiritual portals of our concerns about why, what and how man's existence will impact on this world's demise.  Perhaps this is just another one of those daily reminders or wakeup calls, as we like to call them.

Listen..., lets not ponder on just the what, how, when or if...  it will happen.  Let's focus perhaps on change.

Although, some are saying it will happen this year or later. 

Maybe so..... 

But please remember and consider this... This world came to an end, for everyone who died today.

Be and make the very best of each and everyday you have and live each and everyday you have, as though it will your last......

* This special nugget is a REPOST from my archives dated September 2010



            

MY PERSONAL THANKS TO EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU!

Hello, usually I love to begin my day with starring out the window to greet the mornings magnificent sunrise. As I listen to the little birds singing cheerfully in the distant trees, I reflect back on the weeks blessed opportunities. Not only am I appreciative or speak of the ones I've reached out to and took hold of, but also those very special ones I missed because I did not recognize them or because I may not have positioned myself accordingly to recieve them.

Afterwhich, I then find a quiet corner and offer the inspired thoughts of my heart, mind and soul, in the numerous pages of this blog.

Today, I wish to say, "Thank You", to all of you that have visited this blog site and without reservation, went a step further to introduce it to the others within your influence.

Below is a list of what I and others like yourselves have considered the Best of "JUST LOVE". They can be accessed simply by clicking on any of the below selected "Top Ten" titles.

Join me to discover and rediscover them again...... THANKING EACH AND EVERYONE YOU!!

"JUST LOVE's" TOP TEN Selections:

Life's evening sun
How can I help
Shout while you still can
The devil made me do it
Keeper
Brain Food
Tic Toc Tic
If the shoe fits
Love is in the air
The winter Will Come

DO YOU SEE WHAT I SEE

* This is a REPOST from my archive (9/11/11 @10:32 a.m.)


It's a proven fact that time is valuable, essential and most importantly waits for no one. With each day that passes, there is beauty and at the same time ugliness all around us. That's why I love and hold true to the phrase that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Here's what I see....

Everyone of us has the ability to partake of all the positive things this life has to offer, especially when we position ourselves correctly to receive them. Sometimes because of our negative mindset, we fail to see these opportunities that are literally right in front of us, which result in reinforcing a life filled with loses, failure and hopelessness. 

In contrast, I personally choose to see things differently. Today I awakened to see a glorious sun rise high in the skies, and then I saw and heard birds singing in the trees. Unfortunately, I didn't know or understand what they were saying, but it appeared to me, that they were just being thankful for another day. As I looked at my own reflection in the mirror I saw a positive, energetic and excited person ready to take on the days challenges, one by one.  Later as turned and looked around, I saw young school children playing and laughing together without prejudice, malice or restraint.  I movingly saw and met a stranger who took the time to smile and say, "good morning". You know, I truly have to honestly admit, that I probably would have missed out on his incredible greeting, if I had been walking around with my head down, filled with doom and gloom.

I know in my heart and soul that I'm not alone...... but do you see what I see?

Sharing The Holidays With You

In keeping with all of the upcoming Holiday festivities and occasional madness surrounding them, I stopped for a moment to ponder on how and what it must have taken for people to commute back and forth to their personal and favorite Holiday destinations over and during past years. I'm not exactly sure when the human race began to establish and recognize Holidays, but I'm sure there were special events that were for whatever reason, significant enough to lead them and us into what we celebrate today from one year to the next. This part of the equation is sometimes puzzling. How and what were their modes of travel? Perhaps, we should go back, I mean way back, far back, perhaps to a time forgotten......


The date is unknown and all the exact places no longer exist. An era where men and women lived mostly in caves. They were grouped together as clans or tribes, yet some remained to live apart and alone. As they learned more and more about their surroundings and became more familiar with the changing of each season, when food was abundant and sometimes scarce. Still yet, I'm sure they must have visited each other during those special times.

If distant travel became a necessity, I envision this may have been how they got it done. Fortunately for the others, the only delay in reaching their destination on time had not been discovered or invented yet. Things like locating the nearest and cheapest gas stations.

As we move farther into the more present future, these guys had less of the hardships as the previously mentioned holiday travelers. The terrain was definetly rough and tough, but at least if it rained they could still keep their appointment, stay dry and not run the risk of being eaten by what the previously mentioned guys chose to ride upon. I just think they had to really have a good idea about exactly where in the heck was their favorite uncle Billy Bob's house was located and could they actually make it there by Xmas, without having to stop and deal with altering their route due to unscheduled visits by unfriendly indians, who probably were traveling and shopping for the Holiday's too .

Today, as you know things are quite different. We have calendars, Macys department stores, television, online shopping and each other to remind us of the Holiday Seasons. Although, we could walk, run, drive, float, and of course fly to destinations today, the real problem we face is that with all these modern luxuries, traveling during the holidays can still become quite difficult, costly and extremely stressful.

For example, after deciding and preparing to make the trip, what day would be the best day of the week to tackle the dreaded airport......ummm? It has been said that the Wednesday before a Holiday is by far the worst day to travel. Yet, travel appears to ease, especially on the actual Holiday. In kind, the worst day to choose for return travel is Saturday, because you run into all the commuters who left from where ever they were a few days earlier.


But, there is a possible solution, for soon and very soon, none of the above forementioned Holiday headache issues will matter. There will be no more issues of stressful traveling, gift selections, excuses or worrying whether or not we can observe this or that Holiday and will it conflict with our personal lives or different religious beliefs. There and only there, at that place and time, it is said that...

"Everyday will be a Holiday"





Until then, where ever you are in the world, from me and mine, to you and yours.....

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season.



* Portions reposted from an archieve post titled, "I'll Be There".  

Treasures Of The Heart

Today, started with sorting through the volumes of incoming emails. Usually the task involves choosing between the good and bad stuff and enjoying the rewarding sounds of hitting the delete button as fast as I can. But, suddenly I was distracted by a title that caught my eye and I paused to investigate it closely.  Since I recognized the name of the sender, I felt very safe in opening the visually capturing mail. As I read each line to its final period, I knew then that I was obligated to share it with all of you, my valued readers.  My only regret is that I could not determine its author, as its my desire to give all the credit for this piece to it's proper owner. 

May your heart also be enlighten by its meaning and blessing: 

The WOODEN BOWL  

A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year-old grandson.  
The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered  

The family ate together at the table, but the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor.  

When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth.  

The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess.   “We must do something about father, said the son.  I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor.”   

So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner.  

There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner. Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl.  

When the family glanced in Grandfather‘s direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone.  

Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.   The four-year-old watched it all in silence.  

One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor.  

He asked the child sweetly, ' What are you making? Just as sweetly, the boy responded,  

“Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up”.  

The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.  

The words so struck the parents so that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.  

That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table.  

For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.  

On a positive note, I've learned that, no matter what happens, how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.  

I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles four things:  

A rainy day, the elderly, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.  

I've learned that, regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life.  

I've learned that making a living is not the same thing as making a life..   

I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.  

I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back sometimes.  

I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you.. but, if you focus on your family, your friends, the needs of others, your work and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you.  

I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.  

I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.  

I've learned that every day, you should reach out and touch someone.  

People love that human touch -- holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back...., I've learned that I still have a lot to learn. 

PRICELESS

Every once in awhile, someone speaks or does something that immobilizes you or just simply stops you dead in your tracks. These extraordinary and amazing events can be extremely overwhelming to most of us, even to the point of being just down right... PRICELESS.

Visualize with me for a moment....

can you remember what it was like to gaze up into the heavens and observing your very first sunrise or sunset?  How about the first time you witnessed a newborn coming into this world and watching them take their very first breath.  That moment was especially significant when the newborn's birth I witnessed was that of my very own children.

Events of this nature occur in our lives daily, which is why this particular post is titled.... PRICELESS!!

The following is a just one more example of incredible events communicated in the form of thoughts, that just took my breath away.  These PRICELESS thoughts were written by unknown person(s) to me and because the words are powerful, positive and helpful, I'm motivated to sharing them with all of you.

Please Remember...

Everyone Can't Be in Your Front Row

Life is a theater - invite your audience carefully. Not everyone is spiritually healthy and mature enough to have a front row seat in our lives. There are some people in your life that need to be loved from a distance. It's amazing what you can accomplish when you LET GO, or at least minimize your time with draining, negative, incompatible, not-going-anywhere relationships, friendships, or those we fellowship with!

Observe the relationships around you and be sure to pay attention to which ones lift and which ones lean; Which ones encourage and which ones discourage; Which ones are on a path of growth uphill and which ones are going downhill. 

When you leave or avoid certain people, do you feel better or feel worse? Amazingly some of our chosen  relationships flood our lives with endless drama.  Unfortunately they don't really understand, know and appreciate you for incredible gifts that lie within you.

When we start to value and seek personal growth, peace of mind, love and truth, the easier it will become for us to decide who gets to sit in the FRONT ROW and who should be moved to the rear balcony of and in our lives.

We cannot always change the people around us...,  but we can change the people we are around!

Ask God for godly wisdom and discernment and choose wisely the people who sit in the front row of your life.

This Magic Moment

As the song's lyrics suggest...., "Magic Moments" experienced each and every single day, are all at times vastly different and new; they're really unlike any other, and once they are gone you'll never see or live another one exactly like it again.

Looking back, over my life I can remember taking a lot for granted. Things like thinking I would stay young, smart and or even living forever.  Obviously forgetting that life disguised as time, would eventually change myself and everyone else too.  Not only in the way we physically felt and looked, but most importantly the way we think.

These days, I get up feeling and acknowledging how truly blessed we all are. Thank god, I'm personally not awaken to the sounds and smells of war and the countless numbers of deaths that are part of its results.  In some places around the world its all some people know, breathe and live constantly.  Lately though, some have begun to stand up and fight back against the insanity of their dictators, who for whatever reason believe that an oppressed nation is a happy nation. Surely, I sympathize with them for having to exist under these conditions, but unfortunately, if I were asked to  change places with them for a moment or a day, my answer would be simple and clear.

In a word...NO!

Although, I sincerely do wish that they could experience the peace and tranquility, I sometimes take for granted in this country, at least for just a moment in their time.  In comparison to their everyday world, I guess my life here on this side of the fence... really is paradise. 

So, here's some thoughts on what I'm doing to sow and reap Magic Moments...

I've got to continue to enjoy this life that I have by first recognizing that I must first begin to live it, love it and share it.  Understanding that everything that exists, happens for a reason; That every thing is not all about me and that somethings do take time, and in fact there is more to life than just sitting around and contemplating on how to speed it up, while forgetting that without a plan to where I'm going, I'm destined to end up some place else.

I must strive to be steadfast in gaining a better appreciation for the people, places and things that impact my love for life.  I have discovered, that it may be as simple as looking up and instantly being overwhelmed by a beautiful sunrise or sunset or hearing and listening to the birds that sing, or caressing the flow of air that I'm able to breathe even though I can't literally see it, yet knowing that its there in abundance every time I arise to see a new day.

Remembering the experience and answers I searched for, on one occasion as I looked down on the remains of a loved and respected family member, who had lived her life on earth for 94 blessed  years.  As the feelings of hopelessness and pain raced through my core, I suddenly realized that through all the sadness and heartbreak displayed in that building, my subconscious senses were now being repeatedly bombarded with the awesome and awakening sounds from none other than a newborn in attendance three rows behind me. Their tiny and incredible utterances of love, joy and happiness, miraculously drowned out my selfish tears of sorrow and woe.

The rewarding results of that small "Magic Moment", was huge and gave me reassurance that life will continue to go on with or without me, but while I'm still here, its a responsibility of mine to give back into that which I partake of.


Mark Twain said once that, "Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see".  In like manner, I've heard it said that, negative thoughts create negative beliefs which govern our attitudes and actions to create negative beliefs.  So if this is a true statement, can you imagine what impact positive thoughts will and would have on ourselves and those we have influence on?

Just Live, Love and Share life. Strive without regret to give these intricate and important factors your very very best each day.   

   

No Reason To Quit

Seven years ago, in the fall of 2003, I turned the eager and energetic age of 50. Wow, I had hit the top of the hill according to a few of my closest friends. Soooo.... what are you going to do different they ask?  Of course I was still caught up in the fact that I was blessed to even see 50 years of life, especially with practically everything from all my physical and mental aspects in tact.

After several minutes of beinng in my own little world, the voices around began to get louder and more direct. I guess I spaced out a little.  I only remember saying yes I can and yes I will!  After high fiving everyone, I discovered that I had agreed to enter a local bodybuilding contest.

YIPES!

Anyway, through all the 24 weeks of training and grueling dieting regimine, I guess I shocked some of those doubting friends, when I delivered a FIRST PLACE trophy in the masters division.

Since that time, I started to seriouly train again, only this time just to duplicate and or simulate that bodybuilders look, without the stresses of actually doing the show.  My problem this time is that, I'm seven years older and believe it or not, I'm convinced that things really do change.  This old body constantly reminds me that I need to make new mental and physical adjustments.

Interestingly enough life is, has and can have a strange sense of humor. It also has the tendency to every once in awhile.. throw you a curve ball.

My curve ball came fast and hard. Initially, I took a mighty swing at it, but I really should have ducked. There it was flying toward me as if it was shot out of a cannon. The final result of the umpire's (surgeons) call was... A HERNIATED DISK.

No way, I said. Yes it is, he replied.

It's now been seven to eight months of every pain pill the doctors could prescribe. Then came the echoing advise of trying acupunture; chiropractic; deep tissue massages; decompression therapy; hot and cold compresses; crutches; limping and finally, "Why don't you just stay in bed"!

Last resort.. SURGERY.  YIPES!! AGAIN.

Through it all, thanks to my strong faith in sincere prayer.  Everything turned out just fine. 

The hills of life are still present and will be for as long as we are alive and breathe air. A positive mindset and the willingness to forge forward and never give up is vital to a positive outcome.  Here's what I thought of most and I truly hope that this statement will help you when you're standing at the plate of life's challenges and the next pitch you're thrown is a curve ball.

When God leads you to the edge of the cliff, trust him fully and let go, only 1 of  2 things will happen; either he'll catch you when you fall, or.. he'll teach you how to fly!




    

A Hat like No Other...

Imagine waking up and the sun is shinnig so bright that you decide its just to hot to go outside, but then you suddenly change your mind and decide to take a stroll along the nearby country side. As the sun beams down streams of laser like heat upon your head, you start to feel as though you're on fire. You try to escape it by placing your hand on top of your head but its of no significant benefit. 

Aww.. over there, next to the mountain is a group of trees. Its now a foot race to find comfort from the scorch of the sun.  What were you thinking?  Obviously not much thinking went into this situation because, you fell asleep and was awaken by thunderstorms bearing overpowering human size droplets of liquid sunshine. Your poor head is soaking wet. HELP!!

I am sure this was a constant scenario that affected the lives of many prior to the invention of the first hat.

Hats by design are primarily a head covering. They come in many sizes, shapes and colors. Depending on the circumstance(s), some were worn for protection, some for religious purposes, while others were worn as a fashion accessory.

I'm not really sure who made the very first hat, but people like Locks of St. James Street; Sharp and Davis, then of course, John B. Stetson are the most noted of the famous hat-makers, that come to mind.

Here's a couple of familiar hat's among the thousands made and perhaps were wore by you, I and others.

The BEARSKIN - Tall, fur full dress uniform hat of the Brigade of Guards. Commonly seen at Buckingham Palace.

The BEANIE - A modified baseball cap with a... believe it or not propeller on the top.

Then there's the DERBY; BERET; DEERSTALKER; GATSBY; HUMBURG; KOLPIK; SOMBRERO; TOP HAT; TURBAN....

As I said before, the list and various types of hats are long and they each have an incredible history.

Amazingly though, I must tell you that there is one "hat" that I did not list above, nor is it found among the thousands of hats listed in our most current dictionaries etc. It was made by a person(s) unknown us, who by trade or profession was probably not even known as a "hat maker".  It was created from an available all natural source.  The shape and color of the hat was not made by any special order request by it's eventual owner.  Although, it was made over 2000 years ago, its current location to date, is still unknown. The actual cost and value of this hat is listed as...PRICELESS.

It is the hat of all hats.  Better known as... The Crown of Thorns.    

It had only one single owner, who wore it at, and for only one absolutely single incredible reason..... "YOU and  I ".

NOBODY KNOWS...

I believe that everyone would and should agree that 'Life is Good". Of course there are times when it seems as though, we are actually experiencing "Hell right here on earth" conditions.  As well as things could go for us from day to day, life really can throw an unexpected curveball.  Yes, life is good, but its also very short. Have you ever heard the expression,  "Here today and gone today". That's why its so imperitive that those among us who have difficulty sharing ourselves totally and honestly with our love ones on a daily basis, need to make a change.

How many times have you heard about people who've passed away and their family members never had any idea that thay were secretly suffering terminally.  The aftermath of this experience can be so devestating, especially in the case of a failed or missed opportunity to express love to each other.

Then there are those who love the people in there lives so hard, it borders on obsession, but sadly some of these may have partners who find it difficult to reciprocate.

Interestingly, I've heard it through the grapevine, that some individuals would give anything to have their special someone say that they loved them.  "Why couldn't they just tell me"?

Today, millions of people were blessed to see the morning's sunrise. They were blessed to have the shelter of comfort and security surround them; they were blessed to have food on the table and the means to provide for a better and brighter tomorrow.  Yet, for the millions I speak of, there were millions today who failed to tell those special someones within and outside of their households, the three most powerful words any tongue or mouth could utter...."I LOVE YOU".

Sadly, some or all of those millions will not return home this very day.

This is not a message of doom and gloom, nor should it be mistaken for one.  The message is simply a reminder...another opportunity, if we're lucky.

If we ignore the signs, the results could be a resounding chorus of, "I wish, I shoulda, coulda", but then again, "If you did love me...... NOBODY KNOWS"!

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

Had a dream last night, in which I found myself wondering around aimlessly from place to place.  At some point I realized that even though the places I ventured to were grand and just visually magnificent, I still felt unsettled and could not understand why my heart ached and why the thoughts of familiar voices, smells and sights were literally eating away at my exisitence... my core...my soul.

In the mist of all this confusion, I thought that if I could do a little self taking, I could make it all go away. To my surprise, the harder I tried to displace, forget or abandon this raging rollercoaster in my head, the deeper and more penetrating the wounds became.

As my mind raced on, I searched to try and understand the anguish the people of Haiti and other countries who have experienced recent devastation, must feel being lost and displaced from their homes.

In my dream, I too was losing this war of life, to emptiness and longingness. 

Webster describes a home as a place in which ones domestic affections are centered; a dwelling or retreat; a place of refuge; the destination or goal.

The very moment I surrendered to the consciousness of my heart, and ceased  from carrying the sword of blame; of anger and the sword of hate, was when I clearly saw a path towards a place where there was no signs of crying, sickness, pain, or death.

It was a place filled with familiarity, peace, love and happiness..... a place to call my own.

The dream and the search ended.

HAPPY TRAILS!

HEADED FOR THE SUPER BOWL

Are you ready... Are you really ready?.....Then let's get excited!! Stand Up!, and make some noiseee!!, because in just a few short days the SUPER BOWL will be here. I don't know about you but, I have my team already selected and I'm on board for nothing less than a huge WIN!!.

As with any major event such as this, you've got to have a ticket in hand to get in. Of course, there will be cheaters or scalpers around trying to sell people a bogus ticket.  I say, buyer beware, because you'll get exactly what you pay for.  Plus there's no refund, and you'll only hear about what happen verses being there as a full and sporting participant.

Now before we get all revved up and lose our minds, let me take a moment to enlighten you as to what this particular SUPER BOWL means to all of us.  Even if you're not a fan...you most certainly should be one or at least stick around to get informed.

As with any great team, you need smart, talented, dedicated, faithful and loyal players. They'll come from all walks of life, many have been battle tested, criticized and scorned. Some have had to walk away and give up the right for the wrong to make this team. Ultimate, many will and have tried out, but only a few of those will be chosen.  Some of them are considered skilled position players, who in comparison are like elders, decons and ministers of a congregation; yet what makes them unique is that no matter where they play on the team, they all think and play the game as One. WOW!, this team sort of reminds me of a team made up of  true believers.

 Of course, my SUPER BOWL team unlike many others, has been under the same management for over 2000 years.  This great owner is all powerful and also has an incredible head coach on board.

Trust me, all head coaches are not alike or come from the same mold. There are some who are hot heads, who curse, scream and yell at you, in fact they'll go as far to call you everything, but a child of God. They work day and night, to get you ready for a game you can't win, even if  it means you have to cheat.  Their playbook authorizes and encourage you to use drugs, drink, gamble, lie, maim or kill. It's a win at all cost mentallity.

Those tactics are necessary in order to get you hooked on their sinful game plan. These guys are evil and demonic and are not concerned with maintaining the integrity of the game.  

Or, in my humble opinion, you can have a team thats lead the right way and is coached from a different playbook; one that produces TOUCHDOWNS, with every single play thats called.  A coach who has a winning record; one who's a friend, when you're friendless; even if your teammates quit and join some other team, he'll be right there.  The coach of my SUPER BOWL bound team is known by many names... I just simply call him JESUS.

So, after playing through the rough and tough regular season down here on earth, my team just like all the other teams in the league, may find themselves at the crossroads of this life's games. 

Hopefully when the crossroads game is played, we would have had a winning season, because no one gets selected to play in the PRO BOWL of believers and saints game, if their hearts aren't right. 

So as we ponder and travel on this narrow road to the biggest game on earth called, "THE SUPER BOWL".... Will your team be playing to win a... Trophy or a Crown.
          

2010 and Beyond

Lately we've all been tied up with decorating, wrapping, giving and receiving. There's nothing wrong with any of this, unless you're part of the group who only waits until Xmas or a specific occasion to do these things.

Well, its no better time like the present to address what I call lifestyles of an empty vessel.

In a few short days, it will be a brand spanking new.., New Year.  Another year filled with possibilities and an abundance of opportunities to be had.  Surprisingly, all of the aforementioned were available and ripe for the taking this year and last year. Yet, so many of us limit ourselves from reaping a harvest full of these needs and wants. We tend to follow through with old and familiar bad habits, that block or stop us from having success and being successful.  I've heard it said that, "should one seek success; make sure you take advise from or at least start hanging out with successful people".  By doing this, we're assured to spend much more of our time talking about ideas, rather than spending it, talking about other people. 

It's really not rocket science, to get these valuable essentials done. Again and I repeat, there's no better time than right now, to make the decision to clean up our act and get our head in the game.

One of the very first things to do is to start dreaming huge, gigantic, enormous, monumental, earth shattering and life-changing dreams. Set realistic goals and take the time to write them down. Just remember that any goal worth setting is worth writing down. Any unwritten goal, is nothing more than a mere dream.

I'm quite sure there are some dreams and goals that were not accomplished this year or during the last one. Reach back and assess whether or not they are still important enough, for you to revisit and bring back into your present or your future life.

As with every incoming New Year, millions will be making new resolutions to accomplish. Amazingly, many will make them, but only a few will actually achieve them.  Hopefully, one of your goals will be to help as many people as you can to reach their goals. That's one of the many things I'm personally going to be doing.

Here's one of my diamond nuggets for any year.  Someone said, "Aspire to Inspire, before you Expire"!

It's all a choice of course, but..... what will you do?

Life's Evening Sun

When I first met my wife, we enjoyed traveling down on every available weekend we had, to whats known as the "Southern Most Point" of the U.S., which is located in KeyWest Florida.  One of the many sights and sounds we enjoyed most was to go to the pier and watch all of the tourist from other places as well as the locals. There was always more than enough music, food, drinks and performers around to entertain everyone to their fill.  Although, out of all of the aforementioned, nothing was more spectacular than to sit and watch the sunset.  Words or even a photograph with the most expensive NIKON camera and its host of accessories, could capture the majestic view of a KeyWest sunset.  In other words, what I'm trying to say is, you really have to see it for yourself, even if it's by yourself, with your own eyes.

Luckily, there are sunsets everywhere. So there really should be no excuse for not being witness to one of these amazing events on planet earth. Thank goodness there's even somewhat of a schedule to sunsets, you just have to plan a little bit and make sure you don't miss it by deciding to take a beauty nap. 

Here's one from as far north as the northpole. With this being captured in the month of December, I guess the people there really have it made.  They get a serious winter snow, Santa Claus, reindeer and his helpers for neighbors and a fantastic sunset to finish off the day.  Awesome!!



I can imagine that even in times past and long ago, when the great Pharoahs ruled, and had the power to  order the enslavement of millions, and then giving them the monumental tasks of gathering the tools and materials needed to construct and build the great tombs and pyramids of Egypt.  Surely, all of the task masters were hard and driven men, who's primary and focused goal, was to get the work started and completed at any cost, even if it took all day, with little or no rest, and even if it meant millions had to die..

I somehow believe that, to each one of those enslaved, nothing was more satisfying than their belief, that a day would come when they would be rewarded for their labor. When that great day came, both the enslaved and their oppressors gave witness to the breathtaking sunset unveiling equally before them.  A sunset not made by the hands of man; one that would miraculously place the beauty of a setting sun, as a magnificent backdrop to the results of their finshed masterpiece of labor in the foreground. 

Fortunately, no matter where you are on this planet, you can witness for yourself the beauty and magnificent graciousness of a sunset. I personally have been blessed to see quite a few and I have yet to become bored, tired or allowed myself to take any of them for granted.

I also realize that I raved on and on about the sunsets in KeyWest, but to be honest with you, my only desire is to make sure, that you do everything humanly possible to share the next sunset you are blessed to see, with someone you... LOVE.    

 



       

KEEPER

There are times when people whom I consider gifted and blessed, are able to pick up a pen and lay it to paper in a fashion thats not only creative, but inspired and in my opinion lead by the hand of the Almighty.  This piece, in which you're about to receive is not only beatiful, but is also quite humbling as well.  This piece was sent to me by a dear friend. The author of these writings is believed to be, Inger Reid Hanna.

Here's her message....

One day a woman's husband died, and on that clear, cold morning, in the warmth of their bedroom, the wife was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't "anymore". No more hugs, no more special moments to celebrate together, no more phone calls just to chat, no more, "just one minute".

Sometimes, what we care about the most gets all used up and goes away, never to return before we can say good-bye.., or say "I love You".

So while we have it, it's best we love it, care for it, fix it when it's broken and heal it when it's sick.

This is true for marriage..and old cars..and children with bad report cards..,and dogs with bad hips..and aging parents and grandparents.  We keep them because they are worth it, because we are worth it.

Sometimes things we keep..like a best friend who moved away or a sister-in-law after divorce.  There are just some things that make us happy, no matter what.

Life is important, like people we know, who are special..and so we keep them close!

Suppose one morning you never wake up, do all your family and friends know that you love them?

I wondered, if I had any wounds that needing healing; friendships that need rekindling or three words needing to be said?

If I were you, I would let each of them know that I love them, even if they did not love me back. You would be amazed at what those three words and a smile can do.

And just in case, I'm gone tomorrow... I Love You!

How Can I Help

It's no secret to most, that in many parts of the world, there was in the past as well as in our present day, people who are suffering from one thing or the other. With this in mind, I offer you peace in knowing that people everywhere are also being blessed daily in one way or the other.

If you are a believer, you know that our Father owns it all, and he is rich beyond measure. Yet sadly enough, sometimes we miss or fall short of ours, simply because we fail to position ourselves, in the right place to recieve them. What's also puzzling to me is, the mindset of those who actually have in abundance and refuse to share, and then there are those on the other hand who proclaim not to have enough of their own to even consider sharing.

This is what I know...

 Some may see or envision these benefits to mean or be displayed in many forms such as, money, silver or gold; houses or land, and so forth. These things come and go and when given, they can be taken away.

The true soul of these riches I speak of is LOVE, and it lies within each of us. If we offer it one to another without conditions, the world in which we live in, suddenly becomes a beautiful place again as it begins to turn and turn.... touching everyone with blessings after blessings.

LOVING unconditionally, can be as simple as giving water to one who is thirsty; being a mentor; feeding the hunger; offering service to the community by way of schools, parks, churches, and nursing homes, etc.

If we reach out and help as many people as we humanly and possibly can, to reach and fulfil their dreams, in turn our own dreams will be fulfilled. So it makes sense to me that, in order to recieve a blessing, we must become a blessing.

So, if it is in deed a true fact, that this story is about giving...

Please, take my hand;  join me and ask...... HOW CAN I HELP?

Shout While You Still Can

Its Sunday morning here and its truly a day of rest; sacrifice and praise.  If you've got food on your table, shoes on your feet, clothes on your back today..... You've Got Something To Shout About.

Someone among us, did not hear their alarm clock ringing, in its futile effort to awaken them this morning. If you are among the living today, as you read the words of this post and have all of your physical life sustaining organs functioning..... You've Got Something To Shout About.

Some among us deny and fail to believe in a higher power and truly believe that they actually have the expressive right to boldly utter the words. To you I say, even though it may not be in my humble and feeble power to convence you or change your thoughts otherwise; rest assured that should the day come, where   you find yourself in the the face of a tragic and most certain demise, and the words "Oh my God, save me", flow from your lips and your existence is somehow spared..... You've Got Something To Shout About.

It is said, that there will be rain in our lives. Just know that it won't rain forever. Rain falls in our lives differently from one person to the other. It maybe a lack of financial means to pay your bills; It may come as a thief in the night, robbing you of your posessions or the life of a love one; It maybe the lost of a job; a car; or your health. Do not dispair by doubting or burying your head in the sand; or distancing yourself from all humanity. It is at this junction, when you must rise up and know that through it all.... You've Got Something To Shout About.

We live in a troubled and cruel world, and thats a fact, as I stated once in a previous post, that FAITH and FEAR will not florish in the same place at the same time. For only unwavering FAITH will grant you the ability to SHOUT with an unmeasurable purpose.

Erase the doubts and fears in your life and.........  SHOUT WHILE YOU STILL CAN!          

If The Shoe Fits...

Growing up in South Florida, I have had a lot of people watching experience and I've enjoyed every minute of it. There are coutless numbers of tourist here each year. Of course, some stay and some go. Whats interesting though, is how we all sometimes can parallel our customs, lifestyles and behavior to practical all types of things around us. Think about it for a second, have you ever been outside, perhaps at a park and noticed people walking with their pets and how amazingly they have managed to match their pet in some way or another to themselves. Maybe its just me, but I see it all the time.

A few days ago, I was sitting and just people watching and suddenly, I began to focus on the types of shoes they were wearing. Believe me when I say, there were people with big shoes and small shoes. There were white shoes and black shoes, and shoes with different colors. some had stripes and some of them, well I still can't identify.  Anyway, I began to think deeper and this is what I thought......

Each shoe has a name or brand that best descibes what type of shoe it is and what it is capable of providing.

So if I were to parallel shoes and people... ummmm.

Take for instance, this particular shoe, its known in familiar circles as the "Sneaker"

Now the sneaker, is like some people I know. They make you feel secure and comfortable, but true to its name, since they don't make a lot of noise, they'll sneak up on and around you, when you're not looking, then without warning, they'll NAIL you. They kind of remind me of those people who throw rocks and hide their hands.

Now the next shoe by design should tell you right away what kind of personality you're going to get. I mean, if you're looking for a hard working, non-stopping, task oriented, pick em up and lay it down kind of guy, then avoid this one at all cost. They are like your broke brother-in-law, who just sleeps and sleeps on your couch. Ladies beware, this guy is really NOT the perfect mate, especially for a lifetime.  Lets just get on with it and call him what he is.

Introducing the.......... "LOAFER"

Well, lets look at another fellow. Sometimes I think this one and the loafer are related, heck they may even be cousins. I would best describe this personality, compatible to one who is always in the back, always left behind; tends to be a follower rather than stepping up and taking the lead on most anything.  They are sometimes shabby and will talk to you in a dead on pointy, point of view (no pun intended), but  generally they spend a lot of their time frolicing and being totally irresponsible. So if all of this even peeks your curiousity and this is the type you gravitate to, then by all means the "HEEL" is definetly for you.

Hang in there, I'm almost done. This one is easy, they can't hide their identity at all. As soon as you lay eyes on them you know what you're getting. It is what it is and they are who the are. They are indecisive, and sometimes clueless. They don't offer any support, so if you really need dependablity, start looking somewhere else. On a day when you're having a little rain in your life... you're going to get wet!!  If you're needing someone to hold and warm you.. forget it. It's not happening. Today they love you, tonight they don't. So, so...ever so sad but true.

Perhaps this last one is a no brainer. It not perfect, but at least it provides you a lot more than those guys up top. This one is sturdy, strong, durable, reliable and can provide you comfort up hills, mountains and valleys as they spill or come into your life. It's a great supporter and functions well under some of the harshest conditions. They come in various sizes, shapes, colors and texures. They will fortify and reinforce your weaknesses and fight off all who oppose you. Without further a due, if I were you I would look for a partner who posses some of if not all of the qualities of the........ "BOOT".

So in closing, as the titled implies, "If The Shoe Fits.. Wear It!

     

         

A Life Lesson From The Kitchen

Some time ago, I came across this incredible piece written by an anonymous author, and because it has helped to change my outlook on life, I felt it fitting to bless you with it too.  As you read this inspiring piece, my wish is two-folded. First and foremost, that it moves and motivates you (as it has me), to reflect and improve yourself, and secondly, lets you and I together give credit to whoever is the incredible person who is responsible for authoring and sharing this written blessing with all of us.

A carrot, an egg, and a cup of coffee…You will never look at a cup of coffee the same way again.

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire Soon the pots came to boil. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil; without saying a word.

In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl.

Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl. Turning to her daughter, she asked, “Tell me what you see.”

“Carrots, eggs, and coffee,” she replied.

Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg.

Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma The daughter then asked, “What does it mean, mother?”

Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water , they had changed the water.

“Which are you?” she asked her daughter. “When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength?

Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?

Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest, do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human and enough hope to make you happy.

The happiest of people don’t necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way. The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can’t go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.

When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling.

Live your life so at the end, you’re the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.

*anonymous author

Sing A Simple Song

Have you ever noticed how beautiful and glorious a brand new day starts. Of course, its especially breathtaking when you realize that you are blessed to be alive and well.  My mornings really seem to get off to a great start when I take in the view of the sun rising from the east. There are mornings when you can actually see the clouds part, as if they are announcing and preparing to introduce the brilliance of this massive sphere of heavenly brightness. Some people have told me that they prefer to witness a beautiful sunset, and that's ok too, but for me personally, I tend to get a little extraordinary stuff with the incoming mornings.

Now that my eyes have adjusted to "Ole' Mr. Sun", all of my other senses are also beginning to kick in.  As, I yawn and let out a mighty roar, my arms automatically reach out to embrace the warmth rushing into my window. 

But, wait a minute. What's that I hear ? The sound is so very familiar... It's the same loud and clear sound I recognize from my childhhood; my adolesence years and even throughout my adulthood. There are no words or lyrics that I can understand or interpret.  There's not even any background music or vocalist, yet it is so, so beautiful.

It's the sound of birds singing.. and they're singing the same ole songs.

As this particular sunrise and future sunrise's come and go, I'm reminded daily, that life's ever ticking time clock, does not wait for me or anyone and that no matter what I think or do, it will continue to wind down.  Fortunately, there is peace in knowing that with each beautiful sunrise and sunset; and as each of these sweet and gentle young soliders also begin to age. I know they will never forsake; abandon or forget to herald the new day with a song........Songs that will never, never grow old.