2013 Looking Forward  

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As we stand on the brink of a new year, it is time to now think about where we shall go. Should we make plans? There are many who would say we should not presume on God and making plans does that. I say, there are things that we can look forward to without neglecting God in our lives. No resolutions this year, just expectations. And so here are a few of the things I have calendared to see happen in 2013:

  • Following God in the paths that He has chosen for me.
  • Becoming more like Jesus each new day of the new year.
  • Moving forward in the process of adoption - we even have our initial home study visit scheduled within the first week of the new year! 
  • Watching more evidence of growth in the First Baptist Church of Mulberry Grove.
  • Moving forward in the adoption process. We hope to reach the travel point to bring home our new child at some point during 2013 - We ask all of our friends, family, and faithful acquaintances to pray that God will open the right doors at just the right time for this to happen.
  • and finally, one of the big milestones that I plan on seeing this year: 50!
So, I look forward to an excellent year. I pray that yours will be just as eventful.

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After Christmas: God with Us!  

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One of the most spectacular parts of the Christmas story is that it is not confined to one day out of the year. Yes, we take time to celebrate annually. This practice keeps us in mind of the most comforting of the names given to Christ by the prophet – Immanuel. Isaiah names Him, and Matthew explains the name – “God with us!”
I cannot think of a more powerfully comforting phrase than this. God, who is so far beyond us, has chosen to be one with us. He did it in the act of the first Christmas morning. And He continues to be with us in the moment of salvation and in the living of the Christian life.
As we look back over the year 2012, may we see moments where we actually lived like God is with us.  In looking forward to the New Year ahead of us, let us pray for those moments when we will again experience “God with us!”

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Goodbye to Another American Hero  

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We pray for the close friends and family of General Norman Schwarzkopf, military commander in Desert Storm.

Let us not forget the generals:

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2012 A Look Back  

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Now that Christmas is in our rearview mirror for 2012, it is time to look at the wonder that has been this year.


  • The year started on Sunday, so I spent day one of 2012 in worship with my church family. Even better, I had the privilege of helping my youngest child give the first biggest testimony of her faith in Jesus--Baptism (on Day 1!).  
  • We got started in earnest on the process of overseas adoption. Discussions started last Christmas season, and we actually got our applications on the go in early 2012.
  • I was able to accompany a group from World Hope Ministries International (World Hope Bible Institute) and Houston Northwest Church on a mission trip to Kenya in June. Over 300 pastors and church leaders were trained in "Old Testament Survey" and "Biblical Faith" and at the end of our two weeks at two separate locations I witnessed a sea of Kenyans making commitments to Christ even though our outdoor venue was a bit soggy from afternoon rains all week.
  • Our church experienced some exciting times including our normal Spring Revival, Summer Vacation Bible School, and our annual Christmas Eve Candlelight service. December even saw us pay off our Renovation Loan - we will be celebrating on the first Sunday in January at 6:00 p.m. with a ham & bean dinner accompanied by note burning. You're invited to join us if you're in our area and don't have church commitments of your own.
All in all, I must say it's been a really happening year for me, my family and my church family. Next up we'll look forward to the New Year. Hope to see you then.

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Advent 2012 – Christmas Day: Welcome  

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Before you gather ‘round the Christmas tree and begin to plunder the greed hidden there, take a moment to reflect on Christmas. Shall I say CHRIST-mas. Today is the day that we celebrate the moment that the world welcomed its Maker. I like the fairly new Christmas song by Chris Rice (it’s been recorded not only by Rice, but also by the likes of Michael W. Smith and Amy Grant): “Welcome to our world.” This is the one thing that is all too often forgotten amidst the reckless abandon with which we practice our avarice on Christmas. We even encourage it with our children trying to bribe them into good behavior with a jolly old elf who will or will not give them all of their selfish desires depending on their behavior.
So this morning as you pour your Christmas morning coffee and settle onto the couch in front of your Yuletide evergreen, take a moment to read the Christmas story (most people choose Luke 2, but there are some other great passages in Matthew and Mark, and I really like John 1 for a thoughtful approach). Then take a moment to say to the Savior about whom we celebrate: “Welcome to our world; welcome to our home; welcome to my life.” And Merry Christmas to one and all.

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Music of the Season: Jesus (Christmas Day)  

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[by the miracle of modern technology, I can prepare this post, and set it to publish on Christmas Day]


Finally, we have arrived on Christmas Morning. What better way to celebrate than to welcome the Christ-child into our thoughts, our hearts, our homes, our world . . .



(This song has been covered by big-name artists such as Michael W. Smith (a personal favorite rendition), and Amy Grant. Today, I thought it would be appropriate to post a version recorded by the author of the song, Chris Rice.)

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Advent 2012 - Week 4: Know Jesus  

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Surely you have seen the bumper sticker, if not the marquis sign outside a place of worship. It proclaims in a matter of pun: “No Jesus, No Peace. Know Jesus, Know Peace!” As trite as this kind of message seems to be, it brings to mind the message of Christmas “Peace on earth!”
This week as you gather with family or friends around a Christmas table loaded with decadent foods of all forms and fashions, or around a Christmas tree decked out in all the trimmings and loaded with brightly wrapped treasures just waiting to be torn into, take a moment to consider the Peace – the Prince of Peace – who made all this tradition part of your life.
This year as we celebrate Christmas, let our hearts resound with Peace, and let our voices lift with singing about the Prince of Peace.

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Music of the Season: Names of Christmas  

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Travel with me if you would back to the 1980s. A time of loud music, loud clothes, and synthesizers. Today we will enjoy the song based on Isaiah's names for the Christ, especially the name that means "God with Us" which is what Christmas is about. Here's a very young Michael W. Smith (Smitty as he was known then) rocking out in this Christmas song:

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Music of the Season: Jesus (part 2)  

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Then we were blessed with a song that pointed out how human this baby was, even though He was God in the flesh:


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Music of the Season: Jesus (part 1)  

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In the last several years there have been any number of new Nativity songs that call our attention to the Savior who was born in a stable and laid in a manger to be greeted by shepherds on that first night. This one is a prayer through the voice of the Virgin who was chosen to carry this baby:


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Music of the Season: Angels  

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Our society has a fascination with angels. Books have been written, television shows and movies have been produced to tell all sorts of tales about how angels interact with human beings. At Christmas there are any number of songs about angels.

The Christmas story is filled with angels. An angel visits the old priest Zechariah to tell him that he will father the forerunner to the Christ - John the Baptist. So vivid and dramatic (some might even say traumatic) was this visitation that the old man was rendered speechless (literally) until the baby was born and named "John".

An angel visited Mary to instruct her to be the mother of Messiah. Her betrothed husband, Joseph, was also visited by an angel to encourage him to go through with the marriage to Mary, even though she was already expecting a child.

And probably most famously, an angel visited a band of shepherds outside of Bethlehem instructing them in how to find the Christ that very night. This angel was then joined by a sky-full of the heavenly beings who filled the night air with announcements of "Peace on Earth! Glory to God in the highest!" It may have even sounded much like today's video:

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Music of the Season: Joseph  

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A few years ago, the Christian vocal group 4Him presented us with another new song to consider the Christmas story. This new song approached the message of the Nativity from the viewpoint of Joseph--the man chosen to be the earthly father of Jesus. The questions that are posed in the song are natural for a man in his position: Why me? Why him? Why here? Why her?

This little touching song reminds us that we don't fully understand why God does things the way He does. But the truth of the matter is that He does what He does the way that He does because He does. And this Christmas as we ponder the imponderable whys, it is just a comfort that He does what He does the way that He does because it's His way of expressing His love to His world. Perhaps it is a strange way to save the world, but it is also His way.


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Music of the Season: Mary  

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This week we will turn to the songs that actually draw our attention to the message of Christmas. I'd like to start with one of the most moving songs that turn our hearts toward Mary and her part in the Christmas story. Asking the questions that many of us would like to have answered by the chosen Virgin who carried the Savior of all the world. I thought it might be fitting to use this version presented by the writers - words by Mark Lowry, music Buddy Greene:


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Advent 2012 - Week 3: I’ve Got the Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy  

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As with all of the themes of Advent, we must reach beyond the surface to see them become active in our lives. Of course, we can always see evidence of Hope, Love, Joy, and Peace as they are played out daily in our lives. But to have the concepts become a reality in our lives goes beyond the surface. As they say, we have to get to the heart of the matter.
And so, if we are looking for Joy this Christmas season, the best place to start is not in the bright and cheery music played in malls and elevators (even when these songs turn our minds heavenward). Nor should we stop with the shiny smiles on little ones’ faces (although the smiles and laughter of the innocents warms our own attitudes). As the children’s song says, we must have the Joy “down in my heart.” Where’s your Joy this Christmas?

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Music of the Season: More Bells  

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One of the prominent decorations around Christmas is the bell. We hear about church bells ringing reminding devout worshipers that Christmas has come. We note the "Carol of the Bells." And then the decorations on the trees and houses around town begin to shape themselves into bells--even the trees themselves seem to be bell-shaped. As with other Christmas tunes, this one has inspired one of those teary-eyed touches on the small screen that find their way into our homes each Christmas. This touching Yuletide song calls us to engage our aural senses to keep Christmas in mind. So, as you are about your Christmassing, give a listen and maybe you'll hear those Silver Bells:


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Music of the Season: Drums  

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The legend of a little boy (maybe a shepherd?) showing up at the manger with a drum is one that's come down to us through the ages. I imagine there are many manger scenes that have added a drummer along the way (I have one). While there is no evidence from the story in the Bible that such a boy showed up, but the song that perpetuated the story has become part of our Christmas tradition throughout our society. It has spawned new stories, clay-mation TV specials, and a host of recorded renditions of the song.

There is one that features drummers, one that couples the vocal talents of Bing Crosby and David Bowie (a personal favorite). But the secret to getting this song is the "pum-pums". I like the way this group hits them, maybe you will too:


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Manger Scenes - the Extra Jesus Post  

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Christmas is just around the corner, and so we have dusted off our growing stack of manger scenes. I think I'd leave them up all year long if I thought I'd get away with it. I started a collection years ago (when it was still just me and Jesus) with the Italian fabrication company that makes Fonatanini decorations. On most (with the exception of only a few) years I add another villager or shepherd or angel to gather 'round the manger. It's a beautiful, growing Christmas decoration with a lot of sentimental and traditional value to me.

In addition, we have a variety of children's nativities—including the VeggieTales® singing one (with parts missing and Family Life’s “What God Wantsfor Christmas” devotional nativity. We have a world of manger scenes (literally): one from Prague that has seen better days, one from Kyrgistan (Kyrgizia) made out of felt, one from Africa (a gift from my Mother-by-Law), one from Poland made out of corn husks and cloth, a martrushka (nesting doll) version we picked up in Ukraine, one carved into a tree ornament from Middle Eastern olive wood. But I must admit my favorite is the one my Blushing Bride purchased as a gift for me as she was leaving Egypt in order to become my Blushing Bride. I’ve posted pictures and commentary about this Egyptian Nativity previously here and here. (If you read the different posts you’ll see two different angles from which to view the ideas.) So, posting about my Nativity with the “extra Jesus” is becoming another tradition for me.

I love this manger scene best for a couple of reasons: (1) it is one of the first gifts I received from my Lovely Bride. She took time to know that I am a Christmas fanatic, that I love depictions of the Nativity, and she took time to find this in the marketplace of Egypt in the middle of August! (2) I also, love this manger scene because it helps me to focus on Jesus. After all, isn’t that what we should be focusing on during this special holiday celebration? Not just Jesus, but more Jesus. It isn’t “another” Jesus, but some “extra” Jesus. I don’t know about you, but I find that I can always use a little more Jesus. And not just at Christmastime.
Oh, and by the way—when you find that you have some extra Jesus, you can share Him with others. I’ve discovered that when I share a little Jesus with those around me, the little faith that I have in Jesus becomes a little more Jesus in me.

Have a Christmas that is filled with extra Jesus!


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Music of the Season: Bells  

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This pretty little seasonal song called "Carol of the Bells" is really beautiful. As with a number of Christmas songs there are words, but the most inspiring versions are instrumental. My first memory of exposure to this song was Christmas advertising for 'Asti Spumanti' with champagne flutes clinking together on the downbeat. But I think that the holidays deserve more than bubbles and a pretty song. I believe that this song can lead us to remembering the reason that church bells clamber and announce the Savior's birth.

One reason that I prefer versions such as Chip Davis' Mannheim Steamroller project for this song is that it is the carol of the bells. So I say let the instruments do the talking on this one. Let them start gently, build to a massive crescendo, and then leave us with an all-snuggly feeling, like they do in TSO's version below:


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Music of the Season: Something about Snow  

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Just to let you know, I don't have anything against Bing Crosby. As a matter of fact, sometime during the season I intend to view the movie White Christmas (there are a couple of scenes toward the end that just get me every year), and if you'll click this link there's a superb treatment of Bing singing his signature Christmas song, but . . .

I've developed a dear place in my heart for the intro to the song that identifies it ("Ba-doobie doo, Dit dit doo da dit"), and if you'll watch today's video, you'll see that these guys haven't lost a bit of their step as their hair cottoned up:

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Music of the Season: 12 Days  

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This week I'll focus on some of the songs that have become more or less a bit of a tradition around the Christmas season, and then next week we'll move on to the more devotional-esque music for Christmas as we approach the day.

Today's song is one that has become a tradition for me. Although hundreds of different versions are out there, including Bob & Doug McKenzie's version from "Great White North" and one with John Denver 
and the Muppets, my favorite has to be this rendition from SNC:

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Advent 2012 - Week 2: More Love!  

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If there is one thing that there is no shortage on in this world it is love. Certainly, there are those who don’t experience or express love on a regular basis, but this is not for lack of the commodity. Love, as we understand it is one of those wonderful things that grows the more that you give it away. One of my favorite short quips is attributed to Oscar Hammerstein II:
“A bell's not a bell 'til you ring it
 A song's not a song 'til you sing it
 Love in your heart wasn't put there to stay
 Love isn't love 'til you give it away!”
With this reminder during the Christmas season, it becomes a challenge to those of us who know the Love that invaded our planet on Christmas Day to extend His love to everyone with whom we come in contact.

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Music of the Season - Hippos(?!)  

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Since the kiddos and I discovered this old beauty a couple of years ago, it has become one of our Christmas-time fun favorites. For the video, I found a clip of Gayle Peevey appearing on Ed Sullivan's show back in the day. Hope you like it:


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Music of the Season, Santa  

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Regardless of the myths and legends that have been built up over the years concerning St. Nicholas. The character he has become almost overshadows the One for whom Christmas is celebrated. (A tragedy that St. Nick himself would not have enjoyed or accepted.) At any rate, one of the more popular of the songs in the "fun" category that has gotten lots of play time is "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town." It has been recorded by a wide variety of artists from Fred Astaire to Justin Bieber. I was sorely tempted to embed the newer version by Michael Buble (affectionately known as "Michael Bubble"), but decided I'd rather rock with the Boss. So, I hope you enjoy:


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Music of the Season, Part 1  

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Over the next few weeks, I'll be posting some of the favorite songs of the Christmas season. Decidedly some of them will be a little less about what the season really is, but what we've allowed to creep in (and some of the stuff is rather creepy). As we get closer, I will be posting more Christmas-appropriate songs. But to begin, I thought we could still have some fun.

So, let's start with the 'Singing Cowboy's' version of "Rudolph":

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Time for a Christmas Sale!  

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Are you looking for a great stocking stuffer? Well here's just the thing. You can order my little Christmas story from Amazon.com. Or, you can cut out the middleman and just contact me directly (I'll be glad to sign the book with a dedication to whomever you want.) And if you order five or more copies direct from me (sorry can't say what Amazon would do) I'll throw in shipping. (Cover price: $7.00 plus $4.00 s/h; Amazon price $6.00 plus $3.99 s/h; Direct order from me: $5.00 + s/h; orders of 3 or more price is $4.00. Orders of 5 or more receive discounted price plus free shipping. I can fulfill orders through PayPal.)

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Advent 2012 - Week 1: Here's Hope!  

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In the late 1980s Southern Baptists set aside the Fall (’89) and Spring (’90) for simultaneous revivals. The object was for churches to engage in these revival efforts in one fell swoop with the theme “Here’s Hope Jesus Cares for You”. The convention even partnered with her publishing arm (Holman Bible Publishers) to prepare themed New Testaments (NKJV) to be given out by the churches in the effort.
             I do not know the full results of the revival effort, but I do know that the sentiment presented in the theme is one that bears remembrance during this Christmas Season—Jesus Christ is the Hope that is available to all mankind. Whether we find ourselves in distress or over-extended this Holiday, we can find all Hope in the One who cares most for us. He cares so much that He offered His own life in place of ours. That’s why He came on the very first Christmas, and why we can still say, “Here’s Hope! Jesus Cares for You!”

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Thanksvember: Day 30 - Jesus the Christ  

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Entering into the Christmas season is always a great pleasure for me. Not the pushing and shoving and shopping and such, but the hustle and bustle does invigorate one. No, it's the celebration: the decorating of the home, the setting and celebrating of traditions; sappy Christmas movies that don't really have much to do with Christmas itself but do enlarge the spirit of the Holiday within the hearts of those who watch, the many versions of "Little Drummer Boy" that keep cropping up, "visions of sugarplums" dancing in all the heads of all the little children who've ever heard the poem by Clement Moore.

But what makes Christmas special is not just the Christ-child, it is the CHRIST, the Son of the living God - Jesus Himself. Born of a virgin. Living a sinless life in order to fulfill His purpose in coming at Christmastime anyway--to shoulder the responsibility for my sin willingly on a rough-hewn cross. I am so thankful that Jesus initiated Christmas so that my inadequate payment for my sin would be covered by all of His adequacy - His abundance. It is the Life found in Jesus the Christ that makes me so thankful every year, at both Thanksgiving and at Christmas.

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Thanksvember: Day 29 - Peace  

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(Advent Preview 4)

Peace.

When you hear the word, the image that comes to mind is often of the long-haired hippie in rosy-colored glasses raising his hand up with a two-fingered 'V' saying, "Peace! Baby." Or with a new vigor for it, you may think of the broken cross symbol that some people claim means peace.

But for me, my mind races back to those days when I see one of my children as a round-headed, bald-pated infant sleeping on their pillow, a soft smile touching their tiny lips.

Peace.

Another of those inner springs that well up not because of circumstance, but often in spite of it. In the midst of an embattled war zone - peace. At the end of a crime-ridden alleyway - peace. On the long dark ride from the chapel to the graveside - peace.

Peace.

It happens in that moment of overpowering triumph and it envelopes the sense of query that accompanies the times we cannot control. This is because in order to have peace, one must relinquish control to someone else. And if you really want to find peace, I would suggest that you relinquish your control to the One who alone has control--Jesus Christ. And because of Him I am thankful for . . .

Peace!

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Thanksvember: Day 28 - Joy  

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(A third Advent preview during the Thanksgiving season)

I love the thought of joy, don't you? That exuberance you experience for no apparent reason. It just bubbles up and you can't hold it in. We're not talking about mere happiness here, but boundless, life-filling . . . well . . . joy. Perhaps this video will make my point:



I am so thankful for Joy.

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Thanksvember: Day 27 - Love  

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(Here's another Advent preview. Hope you enjoy)

Love comes at us in all directions and in many forms. We love our children. We love our parents. We love our sports teams. We love chocolate. We love pie (and how we love pie). But all of these examples of love don't really touch what the real thing is, do they? As a matter of the fact, some of these examples are more love-y than others.

Love is that great intangible that the Bible teaches us is the greatest. The apostle Paul writes to the Corinthian church: "So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love." (I Corinthians 13:13)

 You can't see love, though you can see evidence of it. You can't touch love, but you most certainly can feel it. And the most wonderful thing about love (the thing that I am so thankful for) is that the more of the love you pass on to others the more love you find that you have.

"A bell’s not a bell ’til you ring it A song’s not a song ’til you sing it Love in your heart wasn’t put there to stay Love isn’t love ’til you give it away!" – Oscar Hammerstein II

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Thanksvember: Day 26 - Hope  

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(I thought that for the last few days of November this year, I'd do an Advent Preview. This is not to replace, but to augment, my annual Advent posting.)

Hope - that not yet but going to be - goes beyond the wishful thinking that usually enters the mind when we use the word "hope". For instance, consider the following statements:

"I hope you have a good day today."
"I hope the weather is nice this weekend."
"I hope I get a nice gift for Christmas."

This kind of hope is not only selfish in nature, it hides our eyes from real hope. Real hope is based in an unknown reality. And as such provides more than a positive desire. Real hope gives way to selfless thinking and help for others. I am thankful for real Hope that is found in Christ Jesus.

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Thanksvember: Day 25 - My Blushing Bride  

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One of the reasons that I am always thankful, and especially thankful during the month of November, and even more especially thankful on the twenty-fifth day of November is because this is the day (twelve years ago today) that my Beloved Blushing Bride stood before our fathers (yes both of them), a host of friends and family, and God Almighty Himself, and chose to become my Blushing Bride.

I am blessed by God through her. I am honored by her. And I just can't be thankful enough for all that happened over a few weeks at our missionary orientation and training so that I could be so blessed.

I am thankful for my Bride.

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Thanksvember: Day 24 - Grands  

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Before you get all excited. I'm not thankful for biscuits today (although I do like biscuits--with or without gravy, with butter, and with jelly, or just plain right out of the oven). Today, I am thankful for parents of parents--or grandparents!

I have the memory of two sets of my own. When we went to Grandmother's house (my mom's mother) we slept on the floor, woke up early to hear Grandmother making breakfast (including biscuits!), we explored the barns and sheds, played in the pasture, and had general fun. Somewhere there's a picture of several of us posing around the little tin wagon that we built and then painted with red tempera paint (every time we played with it afterward the paint came off on our hands and clothes).

I recall the story of my farmer Granddaddy as he was getting older. My cousin who was helping on the farm at the time heard something out on the porch in the middle of the night. He looked out on the porch to find Granddaddy in his sleep attire and a rifle in his hands. "What is it, Granddad?" he asked.

"There's a blame deer in the corn," came the reply. At this point Granddad raised the .22 and shot out into the dark. Next morning my cousin and our uncle went out in the field in the direction of the shot and found blood drops! Apparently, there was a "blame deer" in the corn.

MawMaw and PawPaw loved having the family to their place for holidays. When we went to San Antonio for a visit we had holly berry wars, and played with my Dad's cousin's boys (especially "Andy across the street" who was our age and bore the same name as my youngest brother). PawPaw told really bad jokes--always the same jokes and always just as corny. Q: Why did they bury the old Indian in the side of the hill? Reply: I don't know, why did they bury the old Indian in the side of the hill? A: Because he was dead!

I'm also thankful for my children's grands. We live so far away from both sets of parents' parents that we only get to see them once a year (if that). We relish phone calls, letters and packages. And we are thankful that our children love our parents as much as they love us.

And finally, since we do live so far from our own parents, I am extremely thankful for the friends who have generously stepped in to fill that grandparent gap for our children. Thanks to all of you who love on our children as if they are your own grandchildren.

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Thanksvember: Day 23 - Memories  

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I'm thankful, I suppose, for the little invention we call a camera. Because when the camera goes 'click' - instant memory! Certainly the real thing (memory, that is) is more vivid and vibrant than the moment caught on film, but the impact of the freeze-frame lets the reality come rushing back, better than the original.

From early days, we remember the good times, the bad times, the smiles, the jokes, the blessings, and the struggles that build the character that makes us who we are.

I remember first day of first grade. Arriving at school with my "twin" Sherry Long (we discovered shortly after moving to Cason, Texas that we shared a birthday): anticipation that something new and exciting was going to happen. Happy that I didn't have to face it by myself and quickly making a host of other friends to add to the one that I arrived to school with.

I remember my first crash. A real crash. Coaster brakes on bicycles on steep inclines should be applied early rather than late. Another thing for which I'm thankful is that the pick-up I ran into was mostly through the intersection and not just starting. Otherwise I'd probably be not here being thankful for memories.

I remember friends from the past. The laughs, the tears, the arguments. I remember the retreats to Mt. Lebanon with campfire devotions in the late October when it was getting cool. One year Randy even asked me to bring the devotional thought at the fire. Don't remember if it was a good devotion--probably a little lean because I spent the walk up the hill hiding behind the evergreens so that I could jump out and frighten the girls and younger youth (not much time to think about devotions on that walk).

I remember college days - at both HPU and OBU, separate but fond memories both.

See, the memories just keep flooding in. And if you've got a picture of photo album, the mountain will keep growing. Sometimes the tears (happy tears) will start flowing; at others the laughter just bursts forth and someone in the room with you will say, "What's so funny?" At which time you try to re-live and describe the memory, never doing it the justice that it deserves. And certainly without the Technicolor, VistaVision that replays in your mind. But the memory is still there and it's good. So, remember. And be thankful.

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Thanksvember: Day 22 - Tryptophan  

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Oh no! You say--here comes another eating post. Okay, guilty. But today, Thanksgiving Day, has become for Americans a day of excess and gluttony. We say we are thankful and then we eat ourselves into oblivion. We eat big and then we snack the rest of the day.

In the midst of our eating we become drowsy and begin to nod in front of the big football game. (To nod but not to snore.) Who is the culprit for this uninvited sleepiness? We have come to place all the guilt at the feet of the Thanksgiving Turkey and his modicum of tryptophan. Truth be told, no more of this ingredient (which our bodies need in small amounts) that is in this holiday delicacy, we would have to eat more than one whole turkey (by ourselves) in one sitting in order for it to cause the sleepiness that overcomes us. I imagine that the culprit lies in the decision not to stop with just three helpings of everything plus a sampling of all five kinds of desert.

Even so, I like me some Turkey on Thanksgiving Day. And I'll eat me some Turkey on Thanksgiving Day. And I'll be thankful for Turkey (Tryptophan and all) on Thanksgiving Day. And in the mean time I'll force myself to moderate so that I can spend less time eating and more time being Thankful on Thanksgiving Day.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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Thanksvember: Day 21 - Sunshine  

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Something about sunshine just brightens my day. I don't know, maybe its the sunshine. I have a cousin who always greets me (and I'm assuming everyone else, but it's nice to think that it's just me) with: "Hello, Sunshine!" I like that. It means that her day has been brightened when people come into her sight.

The sunshine that we know helps the plants to find nourishment and it also lights up the world so we can see those healthy plants. It provides for us certain vitamins to keep us healthy, too. It warms us and teaches us about the One  true Light who brightens life and gives Sonshine to those who believe.

I used to parody: "Sunshine on my shoulder makes me sunburned/Sunshine in my eyes can make me blind . . ." But in all truth, today I am truly thankful for this:

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Thanksvember: Day 20 - Generosity  

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This time of year you begin to see the generous spirit of people begin to shine through. You don't mind the annoying 'cling-clanging' of the Santa's helper outside the retail outlet. As a matter of fact you reward his/her generous donation of time in behalf of the Salvation Army to drop a few drips of generosity into the red bucket yourself.

Some people volunteer to help gather together goodies in shoe boxes and food baskets for a host of charities. People donate time in a soup kitchen and extra money that isn't really extra to the charity of their choice. In the midst of commercialism and greed you can witness the glimpses of generosity all around you.

Be generous with your time, talents, and finances this Thanksgiving season. You will be glad you did, and so will those who benefit from your generosity.

I am thankful for this kind of generosity. But I am most thankful for the generosity bestowed upon me when the Christ, the Son of the Living God, was sent to Earth to make provision from me. It is a double gift of generosity because God gave his only Son (generosity), and Jesus gave himself (generosity) so that I might experience life to the fullest.

What generosity! I am blessed and I am thankful.

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Thanksvember: Day 19 - Children (Take 2)  

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You've seen how much I am thankful for children. Today I want to express my thanks for the three children who are closest to me, let's call them Puddn' N Pie, Bubba, and Little Bit.

Over the last decade or so, these children have invaded my life. They demand my attention. They fill my thoughts. And they bless my heart with blessings beyond measure.

I love the Psalmist's assessment: Like arrows in the hand of a warrior
    are the children of one's youth.

Blessed is the man
    who fills his quiver with them! (Psalm 127:4-5a, ESV)

Yes, I am thankful for my children. I thank the Lord for each tantrum, each whine, and all those ever-present hugs.

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Thanksvember: Day 18 - Community  

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I heard it again this week, a statement that was new to me about five years ago: "The Bible starts in a garden,  and ends in a city." The implication is that cities are more important than rural settings in the eyes of God. The difficulty that I have with such a statement is that, as I read Scripture, God is concerned about all the people of His creation. At one point we are told that He "is not willing that any should perish." (see 2 Peter 3:9) Elsewhere we read the parable about a shepherd who leaves 99 sheep to find 1 that is lost out in the wilderness. (Read it in Luke 15) So, I am convinced that God, as He loves the masses gathered in the cities around our globe, loves (just as much) the farmers and rural citizens who have chosen to stay in the countryside.

What these two (city mouse and country mouse, for those who remember that story) have in common is community. Community - people making a go of life together in a similar situation or thrust together because of geographical location. I think that community is a good thing. It reminds us that we need other people. Mankind is the pinnacle of the social being. We need contact with other human beings.

Today I want to let it be known that I am thankful for my current community. It includes churches, schools, citizens (both young and old). We find people of all races, genders, and ages scattered around. Today in particular community is important because we will be gathering for thanksgiving purposes as we worship our maker. Many will be gathering in their own local church setting for worship this morning, and then this evening we will note the patchwork that is Mulberry Grove as we gather together in our Community Thanksgiving Service.

I love community--either big or small. And I am thankful for the friendliness that is a constant part of my local community.

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Thanksvember: Day 17 - Sibliings  

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Not everyone can boast of the best brothers and sister in the world. But of course everyone is not me. One of the greatest blessings in my life is the joy of growing  up with two brothers and a sister who are all special in their own way. I will never have the ability to understand the life of an only child (which may be a blessing for them) because I've never been one. I'm the third of four.

I have a big brother who has always been practical and protective of his younger siblings.
I have a sister who (aside from the time she wanted to give me away because there was a new baby in the house and she was "finished with Benjie") has always understood and loved me.
I have a younger brother who has always been good to listen and (when we were young) play the games I suggested.

In their own right, each of them has grown to be a person of deeper faith; marrying God-loving Christ followers which allows for their own homes to be filled with the same kind of influence in which we were all reared. What a great blessing to have such siblings. I am thankful.

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Thanksvember: Day 16 - Godly Parents  

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Just because my daddy was a preacher doesn't necessarily mean that he is a godly man. But because his greatest concern is to share the love of Jesus Christ with those around him does. I would have to say, though that the most godly (godliest?) person I know is not my preacher father, but his wife--my mother.


It was my mom who prodded me just a little more when she knew that the Holy Spirit was dealing with me. It was my mom who called me on it when I was a little less than respectful to the Savior. It was my mom who loved me with a love of Jesus that made Him real to me.

Now I don't want to discount my dad's influence either because establishing a godly home requires teamwork. And my parents are a wonderful team when it comes to being an example of godly character. So much was their influence that the four adults who were blessed by a childhood in the home of Tom & Jane Potter are all living their faith without apology and with wreckless abandon wherever they are. 

Do you want to note godly parents? Check their adult children. I am thankful for godly parents - every day.

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Thanksvember: Day 15 - Friends  

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"If you're ever in a jam, here I am . . ." the line from the song "Friendship" is the sentiment that most people are looking for in a friend. Sadly, too often we want someone else to be that friend for us but we don't fully grasp the need to be that same kind of friend for them. And with the runaway popularity of social media like Facebook, the idea of friendship has reached an all-time high in terms of glossy surface.

I am not advocating changing the language used in social media. After all, it's nice to have a growing number of friends. And of course friends come in all shapes and sizes. There are those friends who are your friends because you have experience in common--grade school, high school, college or military; there are friends who come from a work setting; there are friends who are friends because of proximity--your next-door-neighbor; there are friends who are friends because of Providence.

Friends are people with whom we are polite, and more than polite. Friends are those with whom we share pieces of our life. The closeness of the friendship determines the size of the pieces of our lives.

The best thing about a good friend is that they will remain our friend when we are not so friendly, they stick by us through thick and thin, and over time zones of distance. The old saying is, "to have a friend, be a friend."

For you, my friend (since you read the whole post), I am thankful.

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Thanksvember: Day 14 - Language  

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Having taught literature, reading, grammar, and spelling (among the language arts), it is not unusual to see me express my thankfulness for the proper ability to communicate. As a communicator by profession, it is my stock and trade. Since I fancy myself a struggling writer, language is important to me.

Language should be important to us all. It is the way that we make known to others our needs, emotions, and desires. We can express the English language through verbal and written forms. Language is so important that no matter where you go in this world, if you encounter people they will be communicating--using language.

So, whether you speak a romantic, a tonal, or a sign language, use your language today to express thankfulness that you can communicate.

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Thanksvember: Day 13 - Technology  

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I am not a techno-geek. I admit that I am fascinated by all the new gadgets that hit the scene almost daily. But I don't have to have it all. Even so, I am thankful for the advances in technology that we can enjoy today. The ability to talk via the Internet with virtually anyone in the world instantly is amazing.

I like to have use of my computer and my cell phone. I'm glad that both of these advances are getting small enough to keep on my person at all times. Yes, there are some items that I haven't gotten yet that I'm looking forward to acquiring (usually 6 months to 2 years after the rest of the country has already mastered their use) such as a smart phone and a tablet computer. But until that day, I'll be thankful for the technology I do have - e-books, text-messaging, email, and the list goes on.

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Thanksvember: Day 12 - Health  

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Too many times we neglect to be thankful for our health. But I have become strikingly aware of the blessing that is health of late. This weekend, as the family attended a neighbor boy's birthday party and I got sucked into a game of wiffle ball, a fall bruised a rib, and I was reminded that I'm not as young as I used to be. (I'm still feeling that reminder to take care of my health.)

In my role as pastor, I have had several opportunities to pray with church members who were facing surgeries, recoveries, and just illnesses--often related to the aging process, but still related to health. I am thankful for the professionals who have the knowledge to either keep me healthy or to be the hands of God in restoring my health.

Breathe in. Breathe out. Think about it as you do. And be thankful for your health. I know I am.

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Thanksvember: Day 11 - Veterans  

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I am (as always) thankful for those who have served and are serving in our armed forces. These are the ones who have given a portion of their lives to protect the freedoms that we as Americans hold dear. They are also those men and women who may have decided to make a career out of just such an action. 

I am thankful for them, and I am thankful to them.

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Thanksvember: Day 10 - Potluck  

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Of course, here's another moment of thankfulness of food, but since today is the day of our church's annual Thanksgiving Fellowship meal (we try to have it early enough to avoid the crush of the holiday itself), I thought I'd be thankful for the potluck dinner.

Box Lunch, Carry-in, Covered Dish, or Pot Luck (add your own version if it didn't make my list), whatever you call it, this tradition is one that has many things for which to be thankful. Most obviously is the best dish that everyone brings from home. The food is delicious. Everyone can find something they like even if they don't like everything they find. Dishes vary from the simple to the gourmet and everyone brings a bit.

So, besides the good food is the offering that is brought on behalf of every family. And cooperation is the name of the game. I am thankful for the food, the cooperation, the fellowship, and the fun that is had by everyone. So this evening and today and always, I am thankful for potluck dinners.

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Thanksvember: Day 9 - Clothes  

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I am so thankful that I have clothes to wear. I'm glad that you do to. Clothes do a number of things. They help us to be modest in a world where modesty is a necessary thing. They offer an outlet for creativity - don't  cackle so loudly at the lady wearing the "Jetsons" inspired dress or hat. They provide warmth in the winter's chill and protection from the summer's sunny rays.

So as you get dressed for the day this morning, whether wearing a suit, a dress, or a T-shirt and jeans, be thankful for your clothes. I know I am.

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Thanksvember: Day 8 - President  

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[Note: I probably should have written this post before any election results were in, but I didn't. So all of those readers who want to read into what is said, will do so. But it is our month for giving thanks and we ought to be thankful for all things. (Note over)]

At the risk of losing ground with my disgruntled friends, I am thankful for my president. I believe that regardless of the placement of my tik on the ballot on Tuesday, the person elected as president is the president of my country. I'm thankful, in the first place, that someone is willing to accept the responsibility that rests on the shoulders of the president. I know that's not a job I would relish. I am sure that he will do what he sees as the best for the country when voicing decisions and making influential statements during the next days. I am positive that there will be multitudes who will support him and a comparable number of people who disagree with those very same issues. Even so, I am thankful that we have a president, that we were able to participate in the selection of him, and that we will do it again four years from now.

Because I am thankful, I will pray for Barack Obama. Not that he will do only that with which I agree, but that he will be the leader that God has designated him to be. Of this last, I know God will honor my prayer, and so, once again: I am thankful.

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Thanksvember: Day 7 - Children  

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"I like little babies. They're like real people only smaller."

Truth be told, I am thankful for all little children.They smile, trust, pout, laugh. They are an ocean of emotions that touches the heart of old people like me.

I love the children who want to give "Pastor Benjie" a hug wherever they see him. I love it when they feign shyness and hide behind a parent's leg.

I am truly thankful for the three blessings I have at home, and for the one who is waiting on the other side of the globe.

I am thankful for children.

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Thanksvember: Day 6 - Voting  

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First of all, I am thankful to our forefathers for setting up a government in which the people can decide by popular vote the direction of the country. And since Thanksgiving is about voicing our gratitude to God, I will go on record as saying that I am thankful that God planted me in this place (where I can exercise that right to vote).

I have said it before, so I will say it again: I will not foist my opinion upon you. I have one, and I will vote accordingly. What I will do is encourage you to do the same. After all, you have an opinion. And your opinion is important. And this important opinion will compel you to decide who you believe is best for a particular elected office or whether one should support a certain referendum on the ballot or not.

Therefore, I will vote today. And I encourage you, if you have not taken advantage of new "early" voting options, get to the polls before they close tonight.

I am thankful for my right to vote.

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Thanksvember: Day 5 - Books  

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I have finally been forced to admit it, I'm bookish. I know it isn't cool, and I tried for so many years to cover it up and look cool, but I am . . . bookish that is. I like books. I like to go to used bookstores and paperback re-sellers just to look at the worn spines and smell the aroma of books.

I like to obtain and read first editions. I really enjoy the feel of a nice hardcover (with the dust cover intact and in place) as I sit down to enjoy the pages.

I revel in a trip to the library to see if anything catches my eye.

And I'll go so far as to say that the ebook revolution has not found me wanting. I can get a book for a fraction of the paper version's cover price and not have to extend my already groaning bookshelf space. I like books because of the efficient way of arranging and presenting material. So, for books I am thankful.

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Thanksvember: Day 4 - Church  

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One of the best gifts that Christ has given us outside of life itself, is the atmosphere of relationship. Since salvation is a relationship with the Lord, then it is reasonable that He has not left us without relationship with our fellow man. He gave us the culture and society of the church.

Church is not the building it is the people. But these people are not just joiners who have become part of another popular club. No, they are people who have entered into relationship with Jesus Christ through His saving Grace, and by so doing they have become family - the closest of relationships.

Although we do not always appear on the outside to be aware of this loving familial relationship, Christ helps us to overcome our petty differences because of His love that dwells within us. It is a wonder when the church family represented by the local congregation lets this shine.

Let me be specific - I have the privilege to be the pastor of just such a congregation. A group of believers in Christ who have learned how to express love. I pray for them that they continue to grow in this gift. I love them that they are willing to pour out floods of love and blessing upon their pastor and his family. And I am thankful for my church.

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Remember All That Daylight You Saved?  

Posted by Benjie in , ,

Give it Back!

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Thanksvember: Day 3 - Music  

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I will admit it. I love me some music. I like all kinds. I don't really care for rap or hip-hop, but I must admit that every once in awhile I even listen to that. If you checked my Pandora listings and noted that I usually hit the "shuffle" option, you'd notice everything from swing to rock, from country to Christian. It's all there. I even have a "Sousa" choice that plays round the clock marches on cue.

My Blushing Bride would tell you that I've got a song for everything. I really don't mind it when a song gets stuck in my head--I just share it with everyone so that they can enjoy it all day right along with me. Once my sister even accused me of singing "all the parts." Shall I confess again? Guilty. Sometimes the other parts are better than the one I was assigned to sing.

I guess the reason I have to say all of this is "I got the music in me."

So, I have to say, I'm thankful for music.

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Thanksvember: Day 2 - Health  

Posted by Benjie in , ,

This may seem to be one of those givens, but lately in my role as a pastor I've been made increasingly aware of the blessing of health. These earthen temples that we walk around in wear out. And they are pretty fragile, so it's important to take care of them.

Even so, when we eat well, take at least a modicum of exercise, sleep some every day, and follow the good doctor's advice, we can still encounter sluggish moments. And these might even lead to more dire circumstances.

So, today, I'm thankful for my health. I'm thankful for nutrition and the advice of sound nutritionists. I'm thankful for the medicos who are charged with my health's welfare. I'm even thankful for the healthcare system (in whatever form it's taking these days) that keeps me running smoothly.

Like the old wag who looks at the obituaries each morning to see if he should get dressed and go to work (if his name's in the obits why bother), I'm just plain thankful for another day to get out of bed and make it to the kitchen for breakfast.

I am so thankful for my health.

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Thanksvember: Day 1 - Jesus  

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So, a year has past since my dear friend, Elizabeth, introduced me to the idea of "Thanksvember" (taking the whole month to express thanks). I think it's such a grand idea that I'll attempt to be thankful daily again this year. Join me if you like.

This year, I thought I'd start on the spiritual side and be thankful for the most important part of my life on the very first day. That's right, I'm thankful for Jesus. I remain daily thankful because God gave us His Son. I'm thankful that that Son lived a sinless life and then proceeded to pay the death penalty for my sin. That's right, the death penalty. Not just any death penalty, though. Ultimate death. This was much worse than the physical passage that we know here on earth, but the complete separation from the Life that is found in the presence of God Almighty. (Henry Blackaby refers to this as "deeper death", see Experiencing the Cross chapter 5, especially page 46.)

The great news about this, though, is that in living a sinless life and tasting death for my sake, Jesus conquered sin and death itself. I know this because He rose from the dead and then defeated the Grave! I could say that because He did this for me (actually for anyone and everyone who would believe) and that because I have believed it receiving the everlasting life promised in the New Testament is the reason that I or anyone else might even have the hope of being thankful at all.

So, I am thankful for Jesus. And I can be even more thankful for Him every time I hear that someone new has believed and received, and therefore been made thankful.

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Have a Safe Evening Everyone  

Posted by Benjie in ,

Parents, Here's a photo of your kid tonight:


"Candy!"

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Another Good Cause  

Posted by Benjie in , ,

Many of you know that the Blushing Bride and I have entered into the arduous process called International Adoption. Each step brings us closer to bringing home a terrific special needs child who wants and needs a forever family to love him. One of the things we are discovering while we wade through the mountains of paperwork involved, is that money flows out of the pockets with every turn. So we're asking for support. Here's how you can help:

  1. Put our family (including the new one we will be able to introduce later) at the top of your prayer list--pray for patience, sanity, and wisdom as we continue down this road.
  2. Check out (and follow) our journey blog--posting is intermittent at best, but will take you through the steps with us.
  3. Jump over to our GoFundMe page and click the "Donate" button--it's easy and painless.
  4. Join us for garage sales if your in the Mulberry Grove area.
  5. Buy some of my books that are up for sale. Many of the books will be collectors' items which I've accumulated over the years. Some are signed by the author. Most will be from the mystery/suspense section of your favorite bookstore. I'm listing the first installment below. If you like mysteries, or know someone who does, contact me, we can work out almost any deal--just remember this is a fundraising effort, not a give-away.
First up is the eclectic but effervescent Kinky Friedman:

Greenwich Killing Time (1986, 1st) - $20.00
A Case of Lone Star (1987, signed 1st) - $50.00
When the Cat's Away (1988, signed 1st) - $50.00
Frequent Flyer (1989, signed 1st) - $50.00
Musical Chairs (1991, 1st) - $40.00
Elvis, Jesus, & Coca-Cola (1993, 1st) - $20.00
Armadillos & Old Lace (1994, 1st) - $20.00
God Bless John Wayne (1995, 1st) - $15.00
The Love Song of J. Edgar Hoover (1996, signed 1st - remainder mark on foot) - $25.00
Road Kill (1997, signed and inscribed) - $20.00
Blast from the Past (1998, signed and inscribed, 1st) - $25.00
Spanking Watson (1999, signed 1st) - $30.00

(I will pay shipping for you if you wish to take advantage of this fundraising effort, just leave a comment so we can get details worked out.)

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It's "Talk Like a Pirate Day"  

Posted by Benjie in , , ,

So, "AAARRRR"

And now, for something completely different:

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SQUIRREL!!  

Posted by Benjie in ,

[Warning: this post might gross some of my readers of a more delicate composure out. Read at your own risk.]

This is not about the "shiny" moment that has someone yell "deer!" or "snake!" or "squirrel!" when you're driving down the road (although that can be a fun game). No, this is all about breakfast. Having been left to the care of the children while the Blushing Bride meets her sister with their grandma so that the sister and grandma can have a week's worth of road trip (scary! could be lots of squirrel sightings on this one) to Texas, I decided to make everyone's favorite breakfast food - cinnamon rolls!

To begin with, we were out of pecans, so I had to substitute the sliced almonds that I found (satisfactory substitution). Then I remembered the Bride saying just yesterday morning that we were out of powdered sugar. That means no icing (and while good, these cinnamon rolls need icing or they are dry!). By the time that the rolls were done I figured our local market would be open so I could get some powdered sugar to make the glaze for them. As we left the house, this is what Little Bit saw:


She said, "How sad!" We decided that one of the neighbor's cats has adopted us as a place to deposit gifts.

For those who wonder: The powdered sugar glaze turned out very well. As always, I started with just the right amount of powdered sugar and vanilla, but overdid the milk. This requires adding sugar until the consistency is just right--which results in about twice as much glaze as is necessary for the just over one dozen rolls. Word to the wise: go easy on the milk!

And now for the clean up.

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And Yet Another Hero Joins His Hero  

Posted by Benjie in , , ,

I read today where another of my professor/mentors has entered into the presence of the One he loved most on this Earth. Sadly, we say good-bye to Dr. Fish--one of the most authentic witnesses I have had the pleasure to know. (Read the story here.)

If evangelism is a passion, Roy Fish knew this passion well.

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Happy Labor Day, One and All!  

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Someone I Will Miss  

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Learned the news that another of one who I consider to be a mentor has reached his final reward. You can read the announcement at his website.

As for me, I'll keep reading, and keep the memories of the couple of times I met Calvin Miller in person--He never ceased to exude the aroma of Jesus to all who met him.

Calvin Miller was a conference leader and the keynote speaker at a pastors' conference I attended a couple of years ago.

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Good Night, Horshack  

Posted by Benjie in , ,

It is time now to say good-bye to one of the best, most endearing of the "Sweat Hogs"


Ron Palillo is now having the last laugh:

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Here and I almost Missed It (and You Probably Did, too)  

Posted by Benjie in , ,

It's National Cheesecake Day. Yes, I said "cheese" cake, not "beef" cake. So the question remains -- did you have a slice of heaven today?


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Good-bye Onslow  

Posted by Benjie in , ,

Fans of "Keeping Up Appearances" will be sad to learn that Geoffrey Hughes past away. We are now short one more guffaw.

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And Yet Another Sitcom without Means to a Reunion  

Posted by Benjie in , ,



Today, we say, "Good-bye" to another of the long-time visitors to our small screens--Sherman Hemsley. He brought to life characters like George Jefferson (All in the Family; The Jeffersons) and Deacon Ernest Frye (Amen), and a host of cranky characters for other shows.

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It's Holiday Time Again!  

Posted by Benjie in , ,


Happy National Drive-Thru Day! I believe it to be aimed at Fast-Food Drive-thru windows (and not Banks) because of it's history in Jack In the Box. But celebrate the Drive-thru!

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Summer Self-Promotion  

Posted by Benjie in , ,







Click on the graphic below--it will take you to the home of Lulu.com, then follow the instructions on the code to buy my books (if you search for my name, you know--Benjamin Potter, you'll get a listing of all my books). Don't forget to use your code, or you won't get the discount:

Save 18% on any order! Hurry, offer ends July 13, 2012.

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Happy 4th!  

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Hey to Goober  

Posted by Benjie in ,

Well, now that Goober has said, "Hey" in that final journey, Andy has reached his final reward so that he can say his last, "Hey to Goober!" Rest well Andy, Matlock, and all your Griffithness.

http://todayentertainment.today.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/07/03/12543460-report-americas-sheriff-andy-griffith-dead-at-86?ocid=ansmsnbc11

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Today, We Say Good-bye to a Dear Friend  

Posted by Benjie in ,

A dear friend of the faith and a dear friend all around.

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It's NOT All About the Barbecue  

Posted by Benjie

It's actually about remembering those who brought bought us the freedom to enjoy the barbecue! 


Have a happy Memorial Day!

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Posted by Benjie in

Have a happy Mother's Day! You deserve it.

And to all the rest of us out there . . .

She's your mother--honor, love and respect her

Especially today, and also every day.

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Holiday Month!  

Posted by Benjie in , ,

May is a month chock-full of holidays (real or perceived), so I thought I'd just wish 'em all at once and get it over with:

Happy May Day! If you enjoy this Spring festival then dance and sing.

Happy Prayer Day! This Thursday people will gather all over the United States for the National Day of Prayer (find a moment to add your prayers for our nation if you desire)

Happy Mother's Day! This year it falls on May 13--so you still have time to do something special for your Mom (or in memory of her).

Happy Memorial Day! On the 28th remember all those who have made it possible to live in the freedom that we have in the USA by giving their lives for our freedom.

Since we're getting a jump start, for all my friends of Mexican extract: Happy Uno de Mayo! (daily you can add a number until we get to Cinco).

Have a happy holiday on whatever holiday you celebrate.

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New  

Posted by Benjie in , ,

A new day,
     A new way,
          A new life,
               A new strife,
                    A new dove,
                         A new love,
                              A new hope,
                    A new way to cope.
                         A new home,
A new place to roam.
A new sorrow,
     A new tomorrow,
          A new knowledge,
               A new college,
                     A new hate,
                          A new debate,
                               A new run,
                     A new thing done.
                          A new pond,
A new far beyond.
A new sweeping,
     A new reaping,
          A new best,
               A new test,
                    A new rhyme,
                         A new time,
                              A new reason,
                    A new, open season.
                         A new tom-boy,
A new bundle of joy.
A new cot,
     A new pot,
          A new pan,
               A new can,
                    A new want,
                         A new taunt,
                              A new ability,
                    A new sightless visibility.
                         A new top,
A new time to stop.
A new toy,
     A new joy,
          A new glass,
               A new grass,
                    A new pen,
                         A new sin,
                              A new forgiveness,
                    A new thought of newness.
                         A new realization,
Without new relation.

(from journal entry for May 8, 1980)

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Observation: Trust  

Posted by Benjie in , , ,

You put your head on my shoulder;
     I put my heart in your hands.
Together we can brighten the world,
     And spread peace throughout all the lands.

Friends, friends, friends,
     We can be friends together;
I'll be your friend 'til the end.
Friends, friends, friends,
     We don't have to worry 'bout the weather,
And forever I'll be your friend.

I don't mind if you cry on my shoulder,
     If you don't mind if I open my heart.
I don't mind if you ask me to counsel you,
     But don't use me and tear me apart.

Friends, friends, friends,
     We can be friends forever
Yes, Earth's peace on us depends
Friends, friends, friends,
     We don't have to worry, no, never,
And forever I'll be your friend.

(1980)

[Again, this is from my Junior English (III) journal. I later set the words to music, but can't remember the tune exactly. I would say that this was probably inspired by Michael W. Smith, but his song "Friends" didn't come out until years later.]

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Balloon  

Posted by Benjie in , ,

Children playing,
The first breath blown;
The man on the freeway,
     The fist you have shown,
Cashier at the market,
          Voice on the phone;
Dinner burning,
               Tension has grown;
One last breath for screaming,
                    Ka-POW!

No more balloon.

(May 6, 1980)

[This is an excerpt from my high school journal.]

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Gripe Session (Don't Read This)  

Posted by Benjie in

It happened again today and so I said something. Probably shouldn't have, but I did. Let me start with my two "change pet peeves".

The first is related to my years in an after school job. I was taught to "count change back" to the customer. Clerks today think they are counting back change, but unless they are more than forty years of age, they are probably just counting back the amount of change their machine tells them the customer is supposed to get. Shall I educate the younger readers of this tirade? As a clerk it is your responsibility to count back the change (not once but twice). Here's the example: Your customer gives you a $20 bill for a sale of $12.27. Your computerized cash register will flash to you that you should return $7.73 to them in change (trust me the math is right). Your job as checker is not to take the machine's word for it, but to "count back" change. To do this you should start with the amount of the sale ($12.27) and count the change back to yourself from the till--pennies (28, 29, 30); dimes (40, 50); 2 quarters (thirteen dollars); ones (14, 15); and a five (that makes 20)--that's $7.73. Then you count (the same way) back to the customer, which shows the customer that (1) you know what kind of cash they tendered to you, and (2) that you know how much change to give them, without really needing the register to tell you more than the amount of the original sale in the first place.

Which leads me to my other issue (the one that happened today--at a national fast food joint that will remain nameless here). At the drive through window, the clerks have been trained (I assume, because they always do it this way) to tell you how much change they are supposedly putting into your hand and then stack bills, register receipt, and top it off with a fistfull of change. Why does this irk me so? Because stacking the change the way they do often causes the coin-change to fall between the window and your car. This isn't so much if there are only a few pennies, but if the coin change is the better part of a dollar, you don't want to have to try to retrieve it from the space between the building and your car.

So, I said something--probably shouldn't have, but I'm tired of it. It may save 2 to 3 seconds of time, but it aggravates me. Why don't you just give me the change, then do a second hand-off with the bills and receipt. Thanks for listening.

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The Empty Room  

Posted by Benjie in ,

The empty room: open door
     Ready to be filled with
Bright happy faces
     Memories of events gone by
          Souvenirs of places.
Shades drawn darkly --
     Want for sunshine
Need for laughter . . . singing . . .
     Someone kind.

To laugh, to cry,
     To hope, to wish,
To live, to die
     No one to talk to
          No one to love.
Open the windows
     Brighten with laughter
Open door; empty room --
     Darkness prevails --
          But why?

(20 October 1980)

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