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A Day in the Life.... - 8/20/2007 12:14:41 PM
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NoDumbBlonde
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From: Upper West Side, Planet Earth
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I realized that it has been a while since I posted on my blog. From time to time I think of things I want to share but find little energy or motivation to just sit down and express whats in my head. To some, I know, a frightening thought! There has been so much going on in life these days. The same old roller coaster that seems to have more mountains than downhill rides. There just seems to be more struggles these days, more storms, more challenges just more of everything but resources. Without coming across complaining which I hope I'm not, I guess I more just weary of the fight. No one ever said life was easy so we almost expect life to offer more challenges from time to time but I wonder at what point does God say, "Let them coast for a while." But at the same time do we take the time to just shout our praises and thanks for those easier times? Do we really appreciate when we have sufficient resources to meet our needs and even some of our wants? Do we take for granted those instances when you can enjoy a nice dinner at a restaurant where they don't ask if it is for here or to go and the side dish is always fries? I imagine if all of life were easy then we'd lack an appreciation for it when all is well.
Recently, I've been learning a lot about the word "peace." Its a word that we think we know the definition of: freedom of conflict, lack of distrubance, tranquility, untroubled, serenity, silence, stillness, harmony. For me, I prefer the latter descriptions. I recently heard a story about a man who had commissioned several people to paint a picture of peace. The first man painted a lovely landscape, with mountains, blue sky, a beautiful lake, waterfall, no wind, the kind of picture you just relaxed when you saw it. A very peaceful setting. Another man drew a similar painting but instead of the clear, blue skies there were dark clouds of an approaching storm. The picture depicted winds in the trees and waves on the water as the storm was about to hit. But despite the approaching storm sat a calm bird, comfortable in its nest without a care or worry. No fear or anxiety just peace. That is a picture of peace. True peace isn't found in a perfect setting. We know that life has its own share of ups and downs and rarely will we find ourselves in a perfect setting without a storm or two close by. Peace is about discovering serenity, tranquility and a stillness despite our circumstances. Its not what is around us that brings peace but what is IN us that brings peace.
I used to wonder why it took so long in realizing the simple truths of God's Word. We think we know what He's talking about but struggle to make any sense of any of it. We have so many questions: WHY? And just when you think that you've totally missed out on it, He reveals it to you in such a way that it all begins to make sense.
So for me and my roller coaster ride of life, I have to find peace from inside and not depend on my circumstances of life to get easier to find it. It makes the definition of trust a lot more clear.
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Horror/Slasher Movies - 8/30/2007 10:25:53 AM
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NoDumbBlonde
Posts: 611
Joined: 1/31/2007
From: Upper West Side, Planet Earth
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Recently, I checked out the movies forum and read through the threads. On one thread several posters were commenting on their anticipation of seeing one of the many horror/slasher type movies that was due in theaters very soon. I was amazed at how many Christians were anticipating these types of movies. While I can honestly say I never found any desire to participate in this particular genre of films I do find it facinating that Christians would deliberately fill their minds with such images of violence, blood and gore. With all the heinous and vile things that people do to each other why do people want to see and almost experience in such a voyeristic manner?
I wonder at the reasoning for watching these movies that glorify such evil acts. Is it that one begins at a young age watching those "PG" movies then graduates to "PG13" horror flicks then gradually moves to the more graphic "R" rated ones? With the advances in technology, movie making and effects, these films are becoming more and more realistic with their depictions of murder and mayhem. The movies of today are a far reach from the horror flicks of the 1930's and 40's. "Horror" movies then were based a very different premise. They were scary in their early 20th century way. Today, it seems as though the shock affect is the most important. It's almost like these people want to see just how much they can shock, distrub and repulse their audience.
My next thought is this: does this please God? I mean really, does my watching something so evil add to my spiritual growth or does it take away from it? Does it fill my mind with images that will lead me to a closer relationship with God and make me a better person or does it allow evil a foothold into my spirit? Would Jesus be sitting in the seat next to me? The answer to that one is most decidedly, no. But if Jesus lives in your heart, he IS seated next to you in that theater. Not a comforting thought, is it?
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GGRRRRR: Another one.... - 8/30/2007 10:58:30 AM
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NoDumbBlonde
Posts: 611
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From: Upper West Side, Planet Earth
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OK, on my soapbox again!  
I realise that we live in a such a technologically advanced world compared to the last century but does it have to interfer with our safety too? The other day I was driving I noticed a woman pulling around a parking area and moving toward the exit to leave. Her car facing mine she turned in front of me to exit. She did not consider that I was at the stop sign first or that she was in fact blocking my entrance to this parking area. She proceeds to turn AGAIN in front of me to get on the highway. Not once did she stop and consider her driving. You see, her focus was quite evident. She was on her cell phone. If I had not been stopped and watching her, she would have hit me. She didn't consider my safety or hers as important as her conversation. That just makes me GGGGRRRRRR. I wanted to yell "HANG UP AND DRIVE!" but I didn't.
At this day in age, most all of us have cell phones. And we do, from time to time talk on them while driving. But please! Hang up and drive if you get into traffic! Pay attention to what you are doing and less attention on who you are talking to. If its that important, pullover. If not, call them back. Now I know many states have enacted a law requiring hands free cell phone usuage but I'm not convinced that it will remove the distractions. I've seen people do the same thing while talking with people in the car. It comes down to not being a resonsible driver. Where this is really becoming a problem is our young people. They have far less driving experience but talk, talk, talk while driving.
Yesterday, while running errands around town, I noted just how many people were on cell phones and who weren't. During my ride, more than half were currently talking on phones! This doesn't count those who may have recently hung up More were actually talking on phones. It's crazy. My thought is what in the world is so important!
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Mondays.... - 8/31/2007 11:46:40 AM
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NoDumbBlonde
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From: Upper West Side, Planet Earth
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Ever noticed how moods change depending upon the day of the week? It's not like any day has any special significance based solely its title. I've noticed that so many of us wish our life away and pray for Friday. Its like we dread the rest of the week especially Monday as Friday brings with it rejuvenation and energy. For most of us, or should I say many, Friday represents the beginning of relaxation and fun time. We all enjoy having time off: the ability to sleep late, the opportunity to enjoy our interests and hobbies, and just a "I don't have to go to work" mentality. I have found myself thinking how depressing Mondays are and that Friday is 4 long days away.
Why is that? Why do you think we sometimes wish away our lives only to enjoy just a few. You figure, if you wish away 4 days out of 7, you are wishing away more than 1/2 your life. Do we tend to make the best out of Monday - Thursday? Think about Mondays..... There are many songs dedicated to this particular day of the week. Karen Carpenter sang about how rainy days and Mondays always get her down. The Bangles sang about Manic Mondays. Is Monday really all that bad? Sure, its the beginning of our work week, responsibility and other commitments but is it really that bad? Instead of looking at Monday as the beginning of the work week, lots of responsibility what if we looked at it as an opportunity? In all honesty, Monday is just another day in the life, isn't it?
Ok, lets rethink this Monday depressive thing. Think of the impact we could have on the world if we made each day something special for someone. Imagine the blessings we could be a part of by a kind word or deed. Imagine how we may be able to lead someone to Christ, encourage someone who is down, support someone who is going through crisis, pray for those who are in need. Mondays or any other day for that matter can be as important as any Saturday or Sunday. Its what we do with those days that make the difference. So instead of dreading those Mondays, moaning and groaning over them, try to look at the opportunities you have to reach out and be a blessing to others. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple smile to brighten someone's day. I guess we all (especially me) need to be thankful for each day that God has given us. We shouldn't take a day for granted or even dread them. Each morning is the beginning of a new day, an opportunity to show the love God has for us to the world! I'm thankful for today. I am also thankful that today is FRIDAY! 
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Being a blessing! - 9/7/2007 4:27:24 PM
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NoDumbBlonde
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I really felt like it was a pink kind of day. Does it ever seem like some days are colored differently than others. I assume it has to do with mood but whatever, it seems pink today. There has been a lot going on. I'm continue to struggle in our finances with the business and continue to trust God in all of it. I have days that seem better than others, mostly when I stop focusing on my own struggles and start focusing on being a blessing to someone else. I have learned to wake up and pray that I would be a blessing for someone today. I know it may not be much but I think that some of the smallest gestures can impact another person more than we think. Earlier, I was at our new Dollar store. This place is huge and I was excited for all the things they carried. I choose several frames that I needed for our shop and went to check out. The woman in front of me looked very unhappy/down, I don't know how to describe it. She was and extremely large woman in her 30's. It appeared that it caused her pain to walk and stand. There's such an attitude these days for people who are so morbidly obese. There's a certain amount of blame that is extended to these people. I didn't want to be judgemental so I though of how Christ would treat her. She was counting out change and didn't have enough so I gave her the very small amount she needed to check out. No big deal. I offered, smilled and she seemed appreciative. To me, it was no big deal but it may have been to her. She may not have too many people smiling at her. I hope it gave her a little cheer. I'll never know and that's ok.
Earlier this morning I was doing a search online I ended up on CBN.com I clicked through the site and found an interview by Pat Roberston with a gentleman that wrote the book, "23 Minutes in Hell". I don't remember his name. It was about a vision he had early one morning. He was and is a Christian and believed that God gave him a glimpse of hell and what to expect. He was to share this vision with others. It was frightening! He described hell as being in a jail cell, demonic creatures ripping your flesh, screams of agony and torture, no hope, no communication with anyone else despite the mulitudes there. He talked of fire, burning, terror in the voices, just the most horrific scene you can imagine. The man described his visit not as a near death experience but as a vision. He said he was told that as Chrstians we all need to share the gospel and do all we can to lead the lost to salvation. The imagery he described is very vivid.
I started thinking of the hell he described. I could not thank Jesus enough for the salvation he gave me many years ago. I did start to wonder at what I had done to prevent anyone from going to hell. In a thread I started in the ministry forum, I described how I see so many churches moving away from the teachings of sin, hell, consequences and so on. I wonder at how many of these tortured souls may have attended such a church that didn't emphasize what it means to truly be a Christian. I heard many years ago that Billy Graham described 80% of the church (memberships, not the kingdom) was not saved. That's amazing. From what I remember, he was referring to those who dutifully went to church, even preached or taught but never fully accepted Christ. They knew the facts but never made a personal commitment, found a personal relationship or made Jesus Lord of their life. I've heard people describe themselves as Christian, admiting that Jesus is God's son. They can spout facts about the Bible and the persons of God but it's not personal. I wonder if this is who Billy Graham was talking about. Then I wondered at all those who had come and go in church. Did they truly know Christ as their Lord and Savior. Then I started thinking about the woman I saw in the Dollar store. Did she know Christ as her personal savior? I wanted to be blessing to this woman, could I have done something else?
While typing this, I had the most unusual call. I'm sitting at work and a woman calls selling advertizing in a regional publication. When I explained that I just couldn't afford additional advertising, she understood. The woman described how she was also selling her beloved dog as she needed the money too. Her husband had just left the month before and she was flat broke and devestated. He was returning to a worldly lifestyle and had gotten involved in drugs. We spoke about trusting in God and surrendering all the problems to him. She is a Christian and involved in church but feeling so overwhelmed, hurt, angry, depressed and scared. I shared some of my experiences and encouraged her to spend time with God. At one point she began crying as she said she felt as though there was some reason she needed to talk to me. We spoke for probably 15 minutes. She told me before she hung up that I had been a great blessing to her today. Didn't I ask to be able to be a blessing to someone who needed it? I guess my prayer was answered. So, for a promise I made to this hurting woman, please pray for Tammy. I"m asking that God will bless her in such a tremendous way!
Oh, by the way, it's Friday again!
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Monday, Controling Thoughts, and Miss America! - 9/10/2007 3:17:24 PM
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NoDumbBlonde
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Yes, I can say it's a happy Monday. I'm not focusing on the work week ahead but on today itself. I try not to dwell on the problems of the world or even on my own trials and tribulations. Tony and I are still struggling financially in our business and appear to be getting farther and farther behind but I'm not going to focus on that one. I've left that in God's hands. He can do far more than I can so it's his to deal with it. All prayers are welcomed though! 
I just want to live in a sense of joy and peace. For me, that takes self-control to change my negative thoughts into positive ones. I don't want to waste precious energy dwelling on what I cannot change. From that serenity prayer, I have to acknowledge what I can and cannot change. Change what I can and allow God to change what I can't. I know the one thing I can change is my attitude and prespective on life. That takes a bit of self-control and determination. I can take responsiblity for my own thoughts. I don't have to buy into the enemies lies but trust in God's Word of who I am.
Sounds like a nice enough sentiment, doesn't it? I know, much easier said than done at times. I can say I'll take responsibility for my thoughts but.... But what? What am I blaming for my own lack of self-control? I know that I can't sit and wallow in self-pity so I have to make a conscious effort to change my thinking. No victim here! So, how do I change my thoughts? I figure if I can change my thoughts, I can change my life.
So, what should my thoughts be? Do I want positive things around me or negative things. If i want positive things, I have to think positively. Right? From positive thoughts to confidence. Let's look at that. What does it mean to be confident? I see Miss America walking her victory walk down the runway. She's got the crown, sash and flowers. She's waving, smiling, shoulders back, chin up ready to take on the world. Is that confidence? Maybe but to be able to boldly walk, chin up, shoulders back, smile like you were on top of the world, that would go a long way in your thoughts about yourself, don't you think?
I remember having to speak in front of the church (a large one) with tv cameras watching every movement. To prepare myself to walk up the steps (without falling) to walk across the stage speak and leave without totally becoming mush was going to be tough. But I imagined myself as Miss America. Confident, head high, shoulders back, smiling like I was born to be in front of everyone. I made eye contact and showed such confidence to my own surprise. Deep down, I was terrified but no one else knew it. I decided to change my thoughts and run with it. Several people commented on how put together and self-assured I was. I can't help thinking that I had them fooled. Maybe I had fooled myself too. Now that I think about it, I need to keep fooling myself that way. Maybe for that instance I practiced self-control of my thoughts. I managed to say what I needed to say, walk, talk and conduct myself as I would think Miss American would have. I think its time to be more self-controled in my thoughts. Imagine what I could accomplish then!
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Life Preservers - 9/12/2007 11:26:47 AM
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NoDumbBlonde
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I was listening to David Jeremiah this morning talk about stilling the storms in life. He referenced Mark 4:35-41 where Jesus calms the storms while He and the disciples were at sea. At the time I was listening, I was also wondering what else God was saying during all of this. Yes, we face storms. God never promised us that we would have clear sailing through life. I wonder at how many Christians began their spiritual walk believing that life was about to become easier. We know it can become rougher. We begin to face new storms but it's during these struggles that God can grow us into the men and women He has created us to become. I imagine we should warn our new brothers and sisters that growing in Christ isn't always easy. The message focused on that especially when we are obedient, we face storms. My thought is we are moving towards God's will for our lives, moving in a way that angers the enemy. That's when he attacks! When we are obedient to God satan is ticked off big time! I've noticed that he tends to leave us alone when we live according to the world's standards but is on the offensive when we are striving to live in obedience to our Heavenly Father.
POINT: We must keep our focus on Jesus. It doesn't matter the intensity of the storm if we keep our eyes on our Lord. Right? It makes sense from a spiritual prespective but does it happen that easily? NO! I don't know about anyone else but I tend to fall prey to worry. I vasilate from confidence and trust to almost panic. While I can thankfully admit that it's been a long while since panic set in, I do still work hard at avoiding it. I strongly believe that this is what God is teaching me: to be confident in God to do what He said He would do. He is faithful even when I'm not. There have been times when I've lost sleep, worried myself nearly to becoming sick but that isn't faith. It's when I am relying on the fears that the enemy loves the most. I am slowly learning to really focus on what I know to be true and fight with all I have to ignore my own inner negativity and focus on the positive, confidence we have in Christ. While I can't speak about anyone else I do believe that once I can truly learn to be confident, wholely and completely that this present storm will end. And when the next comes up, I'll be much better prepared. I already have my life preserver!
Happy Wednesday!
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More thoughts...Doors of Life - 9/12/2007 2:47:10 PM
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NoDumbBlonde
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I have a dear friend of mine that I was talking to recently. She was having some problems with her daughter's former company about the way she was let go. She felt as though she was putting in 110% but still was dismissed unfairly. My friend seemed still a bit resentful and bitter as she talked about it all. She was so upset at how her daughter had been treated and how much it had hurt her. The daughter had such high hopes and was devestated by her dismissal. I really felt for my friend as I know that all things that affects our children affect us as well. Then I had a thought. (I know, frightening, huh?) Maybe this dismissal was a blessing in disguise! What if God allowed this "failure" to be a success after all. She's now changed career paths and is working toward another degree. Maybe God was closing a door that needed to be closed. The turn of events may have spared her some real difficulties and hardships. You see, the career path she was taking had the possibility of putting her in some real dangerous situations. Maybe God was protecting her by closing the door before the danger came.
While no one really knows why things happen, God does. He has a plan for each of our lives. The whys are less important in the long run so we have to accept and move on. The detailed and analytical side of me feels the need to know, so why doesn't usually matter in the scheme of things. When doors have been closed to me, I've had to learn (the hard way) to look at that as God sending me in a different direction. Maybe there was a lesson there, maybe something I should have or shouldn't have done. But regardless, we still have to let go our of past, forgive all those that have offended us, ask for forgiveness from all those who we've offended and move on. We are not to live in the past but in the present and work toward our future. I figure of all the doors God has closed in my jourmey of life, many were painful, some rather excruciating but were nonetheless, closed for a reason. I have to realize that God IS in control and does close doors for my own good. It's often in hindsight that I realize how gracious and merciful God was when he closed a particular door to me. It didn't necessarily make it less painful but knowing God is on my side helps. One thing that I have learned from all these slammed doors is to pray that if it is God's will to close them, He'll close them gently. Too many slammed doors leave a lot of bruises that take time to heal.
So the moral of my tale is that when God closes avenues in life, try being thankful that God has most assurdedly spared much grief and pain that we never had to experience. Oh yeah, don't forget that window that he left open to you It probably leads to a big, wide world of blessings!
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Fall is Here! - 9/25/2007 4:45:01 PM
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NoDumbBlonde
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Fall is here but unless you looked at the calendar, you wouldn't know it. It's still very hot, not that unusual for my part of the world but I am enjoying the cooler evenings. Tony and I live in a neighborhood without street lights. Probably not very common in subdivisions but we actually enjoy it especially in the evenings. We have a western sky and love sitting on our deck star gazing. It's so peaceful (unless the numerous neighborhood dogs errupt in chorus). I must admit that I hate cold weather, I do love the autumn. Even this Florida girl gets tired of heat so I welcome the change. I love to watch the foliage brilliant reds, oranges and golds. Its never more beautiful than in the mountains or near a lake. I wonder at times what God was trying to tell us with this spectacular show. I amazed at our world's beauty and the vast array of color that pervades it. We hear that dogs don't see color. Boy, they are missing such a scene!
I do wonder at those who do not have their sight. A dear friend of mine has had eye/vision problems for some time. She was diagnosed with both glaucoma and chataracts. She recently underwent surgery to try to save what sight she has left. I can't imagine what she must be thinking. The possibility of never seeing another sunset, a spring flower opening to the world, the incredible fall festival of colors or even pristine snow flakes. For those of us that are blessed with good vision, we can't imagine what we'd do without like my friend, Kathy. She's also a painter and loves attempting to re-create our beautiful world in her paintings. I pray that God heals her vision and restores it to perfection. How thankful are we that we have vision to enjoy such spectacular sights? Do we get bogged down in life's trials and tribulations and forget to be thankful for what we do have? Do we take for granted life's little pleasures? I know I do. Lately, I've gotten so caught up with my own situations that I've forgotten all that God has given me. I sometimes sit and feel sorry for my self, celebrate in my own pity party while God's glorious creation surrounds me. The bad part is that I overlook it as my focus is more me-centered instead of God-centered. Now I know there are times when being me-centered is expected and acceptable but in all honesty, I was not in one of those situations. I'm learning to be thankful for the small things as well as the bigger things in life. Right now, autumn comes to mind.
_____________________________
<----- My Blog: A Day in the Life
You know you're wealthy when you have enough money to do something other than breathe.
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Family of God - 9/27/2007 10:27:41 AM
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NoDumbBlonde
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"I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:3-4
This scripture was on my homepage when I signed on this morning. It got me thinking about the perfect parent/child relationship. In this ultimate senario children are completely dependent upon their parents. They trust completely that their needs will be met, they never doubt that they are loved and they have no fear that they will not be provided for. They are given boundaries and limits on their behavior for their own benefit. These rules on what to do and what not to do help mold them into responsible, happy, well-adjusted adults and they accept these rules as something important to adhere to. Children know that any disobedience is punished and obedience is rewarded. Children learn that the ultimate authority is their father and that he is to be loved, obeyed and respected above all else. Children are also taught to be thankful for what they have and learn that all things have value. There is no sense of entitlement but appreciation. They work together as a family, united and dedicated to the happiness of each other. They cry together, celebrate together, rejoice and mourn together. They are a unit centered in love.
While this describes a perfect earthly family I think it also describes a perfect heavenly family relationship too. We, as Christians are the children and God is our Father. We are to come to Him, our Father as children with love, obedience and respect. We openly and completely trust that He will protect us, provide for us and love us regardless of our mistakes. We may be punished from time to time but we learn that obedience is for our own welfare as opposed to Him boasting in his power and authority over us. God is a god of love not one sitting on a throne cracking a whip, punishing us from anger. Just as an earthly parent grieves when their children make poor choices I believe God grieves for us when we sin. He knows that our actions do nothing but hurt us. I wonder at times what God must be thinking. How disappointed he must be but our actions are nothing that he didn't expect ahead of time. Nothing we do will be a suprise but I imagine his sadness when we make decisions that lead us down a wrong path. He knows the destination and the hurt/pain/anger and additional sin it will eventually cause. He guides in that still, small voice but we, as errant children tend to want to make our own decisions but discover when we have come to ruin that God had something better planned for us.
I heard a different take on the Footprints in the Sand story. It was the traditional story we've all heard. I was walking along the sand and saw two sets of footprints. It was God walking with me. Then I noticed only one set of prints. "God, where are you?" God says, "I'm carrying you along they way. The footprints you see are mine." But I say, "God, what are these golden boxes along the way?" God replies, "These are the blessings I had planned on giving to you but you went your own way instead of mine." Then I imagine all the blessings God has planned for me but I missed out because I chose to direct my paths instead of walking in His. I can't help but wonder, what would my life have been like if I had lived it, beginning to end in total obedience? I think back on my life. The vast number of mistakes I've made, the choices that I made that lead to hurt, disappointment and much regret. It's taken me a while but I have learned finally to walk dependent upon Him just as that little child Jesus described in Matthew.
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Another Birthday - 10/5/2007 11:15:35 AM
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NoDumbBlonde
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Geez, I hate birthdays. I don't know if its just me but I really dislike them. I've never had a really good birthday. I mean, I've had family try to make them enjoyable and memorible but something gets lost in the translation. Maybe my displeasure is my own perception of what birthdays are supposed to be like. We all remember having a huge celebration when we were kids where we were the center of attention and the main focus of the entire day. Is this what I'm expecting? I really don't think so. In fact, I don't want to be the center of attention. I hate put on the spot in restaurants where waiters and waitresses sing and clap and all eyes are focused on you. I don't want the recognition. I have threatened my family numerous times to avoid the scene and thankfully they have followed my wishes.
I don't know why I have such a strong adversion to this one day a year. It isn't about turning another year older or a look at my own immortality. I know those that mourn over a particular number as it represents a certain phase in ones life. I don't really care about that either. Maybe my issue with birthdays is based more on a perception of opportunities missed and the reality that you can't get a do-over in life. I can never return to my 20's or 30's and be the person I wish I was then. I can't go back and tell myself to do certain things or to avoid certain people. I don't have a time machine that I can go back and tell myself, hey ditch the loser and focus more on school or quit feeling sorry for yourself and be who you want to be. Maybe that's it. Maybe my dislike of birthdays is based more on regrets rather than a disappointment in the festivities. Maybe its that that particular time in life is as such that I can't honestly enjoy this supposedly special day. Could it be the financial strain we are currently under, the stesses of life in general and of attempting to run the business or is it that I realize that i'm not doing what I want to do or living up to my potential in life. Maybe the anniversary of my birth is a reminder that I have procrastinated on following my own dreams. Several years ago I set aside my hopes and dreams to create a business my husband had always dreamed of. It was with this in mind that I figured that once it became a success that I would have the rare opportunity to follow my own dream. Now, nearly 2 years of fighting to maintain my sanity and a business I am no nearer to be able to follow my dreams. I am, however expecting that to change though. I have to stay positive. I refuse to get discouraged and down. I'm learning to do what I can and accept my limits. Even though yesterday was just another birthday, it's still one day closer to me pursuing my own dreams.
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Drought and Athiests - 10/24/2007 11:26:52 AM
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NoDumbBlonde
Posts: 611
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I hadn't realized that it had been so long since my last post. Life does tend to get in the way. It's been raining off and on the past 3 days which is absolutely wonderful. We're hearing about counties enforcing stricter bans on water usage. The drought is really beginning to affect us all. It's no longer about watering our lawn or washing our cars. We are hearing rumors of severe penalties of violating the bans on outdoor usage. Those that depend on water are really hurting. Rumor has it that we will be limited to the amount of water we can use each day including usage on showers and toilets. It's hard to say what the truth is at this point. We keep praying for rain and a relief of this conditions. We too, like southern California are under severe watch for fires. Thankfully, we don't have those famous Santa Ana winds that do nothing but fuel the flames. My heart breaks for those whose homes and business as well as their very lives are at risk. We hear about the stars and celebrities but most of them have the resources to easily rebuild. My concern is for those that don't have what seems to be unlimited resources. Just another reminder of how much we need God in our lives.
I recently heard of a debate over Christianity. A man by the name of Hutchins seems to be debating the existance of God with Christians. While I cannot remember the name of the individual defending our faith, I do remember a jist of the debate. I find it so sad that someone with such strong so-called convictions against the existance of God seems determine to challenge those who do believe that He is real. My thoughts wander to his motivation. Is it truly that he doesn't believe that we are anything but an act of nature, a biological and physiological chance? Is it an anger at God for something that may have happened years before? Or could it be a dare for someone or even God Himself to prove His existance?
I once heard a story of Ted Turner (ex-Mr Jane Fonda and owner of Atlanta and the ATL Braves, TBS) that when he was young, his young sister was very ill. He prayed that God would heal her but she died anyway. In his anger he denounced God as a fraud or at least that he wasn't real. He carries that belief with him still. Rumor has it that when Jane Fonda became a Christian that his marriage dissolved over her new found faith. I don't know if this story is true but it could be a plausible reason why people turn against God and vow to be atheists. Could denial be a reaction to hurt or resentment?
I used to wonder how I would respond to someone challenging my faith in God. What "proof" could I offer, what guarantees or evidence could I have? In reality, I guess I have none but what I've personally experienced. Some may be construed as mere coincidence or chance but I know the truth. I figure that no matter what I say I don't have the adequate vocabulary to describe what I have felt, experienced or endured through my life. There isn't a short, quick description that proves beyond all doubt of God's provision, goodness and mercy. There is only a life so screwed up at times that God had enough mercy to bless me inspite of myself. There is a spirit of thankfulness that pervades my soul. A sense of wonder at how far I've come in this world. Yet with all this I do still struggle with life and its difficulties so I guess I've not yet accomplished that "like-Christ" feat. I hear stories of people who have experienced incredible wonders including brief glimpses of heaven that encourage me and keep me strong. Could I debate all these things with certainty to win an arguement with one who is determined to believe something different? No, I can't say I could. For some so bend on disbelief I find it better to allow them their own viewpoints and avoid senseless arguments. Only the Holy Spirit can reveal the true nature and being of God. I prefer not to push them farther away by endless debates.
The only thing that I believe I could say to an athiest or agnostic is this.
"If when we die and you are right and there is no god, then I still will have no regrets. My faith in God brought me strength, courage and conviction to live a life better than what I could have. I choose to believe something wonderful and uplifting, I had a life lived with hope. But, if when we die and I am right. I will be face to face with the Almighty God, his servant and child. I will be welcomed into the kingdom with open arms. I will rejoice with enternity of a God so loving that he sent his only Son to die for me. I will have no regrets other than that I didn't serve Him enough. To the athiests or agnostics: What regrets will you have?"
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A Glimpse of Hell - 10/30/2007 5:25:44 PM
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NoDumbBlonde
Posts: 611
Joined: 1/31/2007
From: Upper West Side, Planet Earth
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Lately Tony and I have been on a great journey of discovering his family tree and learning more about his roots and family lineage. It's been a rather difficult undertaking as there are many splinters in the tree and most of his family has passed away. We are blessed in one aspect as many of his relatives on both sides have resided in the same general area for more than 150 years. Unfortunately, many of the records were destroyed some years ago when the county court house burned to the ground. I'm not really sure what inspired him to begin this search but it has been a real eye opening experience on the human condition. We've learned more about his father in the past few weeks than in the 19 years since he died. It's funny how much you can get to know about someone even when they've been gone a long time.
On a trip back to his hometown this past weekend we were able to meet with his great aunt, the only living relative of her generation. Even though she is in her 90's now, she is able to give us a better insight into a family long gone. This dear, sweet Christian lady is the younger sister of Tony's paternal grandmother who died in childbirth at the age of 29. She was the 2nd wife of a man described to us as incredibly mean and 28 years her senior. She left behind 3 small children: 2 boys, ages 3 and 4 and a newborn daughter. With his 1st wife long gone and his 5 other children grown and married, he was none to anxious to raise another family. All 3 children were given away to be raised by other people at her death. The boys were passed to relatives and the girl was adopted by a good family 45 miles away. The boys had a very hard life, no education to speak of and spent their childhood working on a farm. They were shuffled from one relative to another and would not see their father for many, many years. You see, Tony's father was that 3 year old little boy that was sent away with his big brother to other relatives. He nor his older brother ever spoke of these hard times or their father again. They each silently carried the pain of hurt and rejection. It was only at the deathbed of their father that they would see or talk to him again. What is truly frightening is the story of that evening in 1967.
It was a hot summer evening when the family had gathered at the bedside of an old man largely forgotten by at least 3 of his children. His health was failing and it was a matter of time before death claimed his earthly body. In the brief moments before he took his last breath several noted a definite coldness in the room. It was described as something evil and dark, very eerie and distrubing. At that same time some even witnessed dark, cloud-like objects flying around the room much like the scene in the movie "Ghost" when the demons came to claim the bad guy. The coldness couldn't be explained by weather, fans or even air conditioning. Remember, it was mid-July and in Georgia. In the moments after that old man breathed his last breath, the creatures disappeared and the coldness vanished. Both Tony's great aunt and his father had witnessed seeing these dark "creatures" and knew that this man had just entered his eternity in hell. They described it as something they would never forget.
We've all heard of stories where angels have come and taken loved ones home to heaven but the thought of demons coming to claim their own is rather frightening. Just a glimpse of the spiritual world would convince those unbelievers that there is life after death. Some may wish that wasn't true as I'm sure Tony's grandfather can attest to now but then there are many stories of those who have had a brief glimpse of heaven. Whether or not any of us have had that personal experience of a brief insight into heaven, we as followers of Christ can be assured of a place beside our Heavenly Father. What a tragedy that Tony's grandfather never accepted the free gift of salvation or made peace with his family and with God.
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Shopping at the HUSBAND Store - 10/31/2007 12:03:37 PM
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NoDumbBlonde
Posts: 611
Joined: 1/31/2007
From: Upper West Side, Planet Earth
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I received this from my uncle this morning and thought it was too cute not to share.
Shopping in NYC at The Husband Store
A store that sells new husbands has just been opened in NYC whre a woman may go to choose a husband. Among the instructions at the entrance is a description of how the store operates:
1. You may visit the store ONLY ONCE!
2. There are six floors and the value of the products increase as the shopper ascends.
3. The shopper may choose any item from a particular floor or may choose to go up to the next floor, but cannot go back down EXCEPT to exit the building.
A woman goest to the Husband store to find a husband. On the 1st floor the sign reads:
Floor 1 - These men have jobs.
On the 2nd floor sign - Floor 2 - These men have jobs and love kids.
On the 3rd floor sign - Floor 3 - These men have jobs, love kids and are extremely good looking.
Wow, she thinks, but feels compelled to keep going.
She ventures up to the 4th floor - on the sign: Floor 4 - These men have jobs, love kids, and are drop-dead good -looking and help with housework!
"Mercy me!" she exclaims and heads upstairs to Floor 5.
The 5th Floor sign reads - These men have jobs, love kids, are drop-dead gorgeous, holp with housework and have a strong romantic streak. She is so tempted on looking around but can't resist the curiousity of the sixth and final floor.
The 6th Floor sign reads - You are visitor 31,456,134. There are no men on this floor. This floor solely exists as proof that women are impossible to please. Thank you for shopping the Husband Store.
In an effort to avoid gender bias shoppers, the store's owner also opens a new Wives Store just across the street with the same six floors and same rules.
The first floor sign - These women love sex.
The second floor sign - These women love sex and have money.
Funny, no one ever made it above to the 3rd floor.
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Thankful! - 11/8/2007 12:26:00 PM
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NoDumbBlonde
Posts: 611
Joined: 1/31/2007
From: Upper West Side, Planet Earth
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I wonder why it seems that as soon as I sit down to write something rather profound on this blog that I get interrupted and nothing gets posted. I had written almost a dissertation on some observations about athiests that I seem to encounter only to get deleted before I get a chance to finish or post. It's not a problem with CW or my computer as it is a time element on my part. I really hate to have explored a topic and expressed such thoughts that I wanted to share only to have it get deleted before it was posted. I wish I had the ability to save a draft on this thing but as yet I've not figured out a way to save something and come back to it. I'm not that computer savvy enough yet to cut and past off Word or some other program. Whether its operator error (me) or just an inability in the forum, I don't know.
I've not mentioned the business lately. I've avoided the topic in some sense as it seemed as though I was a overly focused on the stresses that come from running a business. We are still moving forward and have seen a bit of slack in some of the money issues. Praise the Lord. This is not saying that we are out of the woods so to speak but finding a bit of relief and an ability to pay some of our back taxes and remain current on a couple of things. Each day we still pray over this crazy venture of ours and hope that in some way that we are able to minister to someone through out the day. We hope that even in the smallest measure that we are able to be a blessing to someone each day. We been blessed to have people brought into our lives through the course of becoming entreprenuers that we are very thankful for. We see God's hand very clearly from time to time and that keeps us motivated and focused that we've not accomplished any success without his direct hand upon us.
Lately we've also have a few other trials that have come and go. Tony was bitten by a spider. At first we thought it was a black widow but later discovered that it was a Brown Recluse. The bite, if not treated can cause the skin to be eaten away. We've read where huge chunks of flesh have to be cut away to prevent the damage to stop spreading. Our local ER is equipped with anti-venom and have seen a rise of bites. Praise the Lord again as we were unsure of the bite before hand but had it diagnosed afterwards. Through a tremendous amount of prayer and a good bit of home remedy, preoxide, antibiotic creams and compresses, Tony has been healed of what could have really been a serious problem. Since our finances are at a minimum these days and we are uninsured this situation could have been very traumatic to us. We continue to praise God for his healing power as we've seen what can happen with these types of bites even with the antivenom and treatments. Tony didn't even miss a day of work. I'm still amazed at God's goodness!!!
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Autumn, Drought and Bush - 11/9/2007 1:25:52 PM
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NoDumbBlonde
Posts: 611
Joined: 1/31/2007
From: Upper West Side, Planet Earth
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Most of you know that I live in the Southeast US. I live in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains. It is beautiful here, especially in the fall when the leaves change their color and the landscapes varies in hues of reds, golds, and oranges. The weather begins to cool and the excitement about approaching holidays builds. This is not the typical autumn though. In only a few ways has this autumn reflected such anticipation. You see, we here in the southeast are experiencing such a severe drought that worsens each day. The leaves have little luster and color. Most have more brown than anything else. Our water bans increase as our security in having fresh water decreases. The mood here which is always up with football games, hunting ventures and pulling out stored sweaters is much less too. It seems that our economy is waning as our water supply is. Gas prices now over $3.00 per gallon hit us hard. I've heard that we have it good (sounds so gramatically wrong!) from those in different parts of the country but then take into account of our cost of living and incomes compared it just doesn't seem very good. In California, someone with the same job may make 3 times what we do yet we pay nearly the same for gas. Houses in other parts of the country may cost 3 times as much but groceries are very similar in costs. Maybe its just tough all over, no matter where you live. Either way, our economy is certainly declining. For some reason too many want to sit and blame Bush for all our problems. Blast GW for his weather machine!  It must be his fault that we are having such a drought! Do you see how stupid this really sounds?
Personally, I get so sick and tired of all the Bush bashing and wish that we as a country would start to stand together and not allow our differences divide us. In the same thought, when do we as Christians begin to take a stand on our convictions, principles and morals. We certainly hear from the liberal left as to pro-choice and gay marriage issues. We, as Christians sat back and allowed a bull-headed woman, Madelyn Murray O'Hare (that supposedly didn't stand a chance) to convince congress and the Supreme court that prayer in schools was craming religion down our throats and unconstitutional. That was 1962. We justified removing any religious practices because of one woman was offended. We sat back and watched abortion become legal in the early 70's with proponents screaming about the backstreet alleys and safety measures. We justified millions of babies dying each year because they weren't convenient. The rights of our choices were more important than the rights of the unborn. We justify bargaining with devils because we won't become self-sufficient by using our own oil reserves under our shores. We listened to tree-huggers demand that we put our future in the hand of the oil barrons in the middle east instead of being self-reliant. We tell the world what they can and can't do and wonder why they hate us so and want to destroy us? Gosh, the world doesn't have destroy us, we can do that on our own. Isn't that what we are doing today? We are allowing those outspoken few to dictate our laws and change our society.
So, when do we stand up and be heard? When do Christians stop allowing those few to change our country to one we are shamed of? When?
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Church and Religion - 11/12/2007 4:32:23 PM
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NoDumbBlonde
Posts: 611
Joined: 1/31/2007
From: Upper West Side, Planet Earth
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I was raised going to church every Sunday. I'm sure my first day was when I was barely 5 days old (I was born on a Tuesday). If the doors were open, we were there. It almost came across as sinful to miss a particular service unless illness leading to death was running rampant through out our home. My father lead the music for a time when I was very young. He evidently filled in for someone else on the Sundays he didn't work. My mom always taught Sunday school, lead various mission groups and sang in the choir. My brother and I attended every Sunday School class, activity and VBS. We were the all American family or so it seemed.
I remember the many Bible stories and memory verses we were taught from a young age. The hours of Bible Drill practice and all the memorizing of books and verses. I can still quote many. I remember Vacation Bible School and the various crafts that we made. Who could ever forget the many macaroni necklaces and the lima bean plants we grew in styrofoam or baby food jars. I remember walking down the aisle during the invitation like so many of my friends did. I remember getting baptized and "joining" the church. It was almost a rite of passage. Life seemed very Normal Rockwell during those early years in some aspects. But then life happens and reality sets in. Bible stories seem to be just stories, not really something factual at all. Bible verses are just religious mumbo-jumbo full of thees and thous. We were practicing religion at best, weren't we? We must have been good at it.
As my brother and I grew older and saw more of the real world, religion seemed more and more show than anything else. No one was what they seemed. Bad things did happen in good families. I watched as my brother became an addict and alcoholic and disappear from our family. I watched my very naive mom grasp at facing life as a single mom because my father choose his best friend's wife over us. I watched my hero disappear only to be replaced by a sea of emptyness and lonliness. Where was our religion then? I was 12 when my father left. My mom and I were forced to leave our home and set out on our own. Thankfully, she had her degree and was able to find a teaching position. She moved us into the only apartments we could afford on the other side of the world but next to one of the best junior highs in the county. She had taken a job 45 miles away at another junior high and commuted each day. I didn't realize until much later all that she had sacrificed for me but she gave all she had. You would think that the church family would be there to encourage, love and support but you mention divorce in a southern baptist church in the 70's and you might as well have confessed to being on the grassy knoll that November day in 1963. No one cared for the reasons other than we were no longer welcome. We eventually found an independent baptist church where outcasts were welcome with open arms. It was then that my mom discovered for the first time that there were people that truly loved the Lord. They sang praises with their hearts and soul. They believed in true power from God. For the first time we found that God was real and not some invisible judge sitting on a throne. This was the first time I began to realize that maybe God was something more than a religion. He wasn't personal yet and wouldn't become personal for many years.
I'm not sure at what point Bible stories become life lessons and memory verses became God's Voice. I'm not sure when religion became a relationship but I do know that somewhere in the past 30 years, God became real. I guess it all came about very slowly. There was no great bolt of lightening to signal enlightenment, there wasn't any tidal wave of revelation just a gradual change. In many ways I've changed. My thoughts, my reactions, my morals and values....everything. I am the new creation that scripture describes. I'm far more compassionate and understanding for those caught up in the world today. I see the blindness that too many deny. I can see how people reject religion based upon the actions of those that claim the label Christian. I can see how they might judge Jesus based on the hypocracy of those that claim to follow him. I can see how God can seem too abstract and distant to be real. I can see how difficult it can be to believe in a loving God when so much evil happens in our world today. While I will never have all the answers I know a few things. I know that God, the very real God has a plan for my life. I know that he can use the pain from my past to be a blessing to others. I know that any suffering that I have endured on this earth is nothing compared to a loving savior who gave his life for me. I am no great philosopher, public speaker or anyone with any ability to impact our world. I am just me; a wife, daughter, a mother, a sister, a friend, and even a Royal Princess. You didn't know that, did you? Yes, I am the daughter of the Most High King. I am special. I am unique. I may be only 1 of 6 Billion people in this world but I am someone my Father loves beyond measure. I love my Father more than anything and have seen His care of me in ways that few could imagine. I have been spared a chance to come to a personal relationship with Christ. I could have died on several ocassions during my younger days. I could have died at the hands of an abuser in 1986, I could have died after being thrown from a car in 1988. I could have been killed by a rapist at 13 or become a statistic at any other time in my life but God had a purpose for me. He gave me enough time to find Him, really find Him.
Church today isn't what church used to be. It's not a building, a congregation or membership. Religion isn't just something to believe in, rules to follow, some kind of identity. It's about living a faith in something bigger than myself. It's about a relationship that I must cultivate day after day. It's about being thankful for salvation that spared me from an eternity of fire and brimstone. It is about Jesus. I am certainly not worthy and nothing I could possibly ever do will be enough to make up for my past. How could I express my thanks for a God that gave me enough time to come to Him fully and in all knowledge? Thankfully, I have eternity to try.
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Post Thanksgiving - 11/28/2007 4:14:14 PM
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