INSPIRATION FOR WOMEN

LIFE IN HAITI

2012-02-01T06:09:00.000-08:00

I recently spent 2 weeks volunteering at an orphanage in Haiti. This is the story of a little girl named Wellness.

LIFE IN HAITI

Monday we buried dear, sweet Wellness. Her showing was in Nik’s apartment. I wasn’t going to see her, not knowing if I was strong enough. I'm glad I went. It is important for me to remember her peaceful: in a little skirt, hair bow, knowing she is in Jesus arms. Her peace-- is my comfort.

She died at 12:45am on Sunday and was in the ground by noon on Monday. Life in Haiti.

Mom could not come to witness her 4 year old's funeral. It was her 3rd child to die, with 7 more at home. An aunt and some cousins came to grieve.

I have had more trouble as each day goes by, grasping the reality--- that she is gone. Feeding, bathing, changing, holding and loving her for 3 days and nights, I was never out of her reach. Then, she was beyond mine. I wanted to go to bed and not get up.......

instead ....... I went to the baby house and started to feed another child who needed some loving!

There will always be another who needs a touch.

author: Mary Charpentier

editor: Kim Charpentier

click on the link below to see some happy news of Haitian children who received a needed touch.
http://childrenofthepromise.org/before-and-after/

INSPIRATION FOR WOMEN: RESCUED BY HOPE

2011-12-28T21:31:00.000-08:00

INSPIRATION FOR WOMEN: RESCUED BY HOPE: RESCUED BY HOPE I am surrounded by the remains of Christmas. Boxes, bags, wrapping paper and tissue paper are strewn haphazardly on the...

RESCUED BY HOPE

2011-12-27T19:56:00.000-08:00

RESCUED BY HOPE

I am surrounded by the remains of Christmas. Boxes, bags, wrapping paper and tissue paper are strewn haphazardly on the floor. Our fresh, beautiful Christmas tree, now half stripped of ornaments looks to me, sad and out of place. The fantasy is over and everyday life is back. I am overwhelmed and tired.
This is a yearly occurrence for me, lofty ideals followed by lowly disappointment. I have, once again, plunged off my-- Fantastical Christmas Peek into the deep valley below.

It's just always so hard for me to let go of the 'goodwill' that I experience during this holiday. Everyone is thinking about others, instead of themselves. We go to the store to buy for them, instead of us. Some of the cares of life are put on hold as we experience life through the eyes of a child.

We find a way to 'make room' for Jesus in our otherwise over-crowded lives.

HOPE RISES UP IN THE HUMAN HEART.

As so many times before, I will trudge through this week.

After which I will say,

"Goodbye."

to this year and,

"Hello!"

to the next.

I will then have a fresh realization, that I have been given a great gift. In just 5 days I will open up a brand new, sparkly clean, fresh smelling........ new year!

HOPE WILL RISE UP

once more!

Christmas makes HOPE possible!

Before Jesus, hope was a dry, shriveled up thing in each human heart.
It was buried under the weight of selfish desires,
suffocated by our guilty conscience.

THEN GOD

Squeezed himself into the confinement of a human body.
A babe was born to a virgin.
And with its first breath

Hope came to life.

He was born
To sacrifice himself in order to eradicate our guilt and shame

Allowing the hope of Heaven to thrive in your heart

Romans 5:2b-5 (Amplified Bible)
2b "And let us rejoice and exult in our hope of experiencing and enjoying the glory of God."

I pray that hope is alive in you!

HELP!!!!! FOR THE HOLIDAYS

2011-11-18T16:06:00.001-08:00

READY OR NOT.................... HERE IT COMES!!

THE HOLIDAYS!

It's that time of year when we must face, cold, snow and -- THE FAMILY......yikes!!

It's November already, and time again for some of us to get together with relatives whom we see only on THE BIG THREE: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. Since we aren't involved in each others' lives during the other 362 days of the year, the only thing we have in common is--- our childhood. So once again, the very millisecond we cross the threshold, we are 8 years old.

Every year we hear the same worn out stories of what we did growing up. It doesn't matter who we are now. There's no accounting for what we've been doing for the past 4 decades.......... we are suddenly reduced to the kid who wet the bed till the age of 15, or some other horrendous thing!

As for me, I've been busy for 30+ years, working, raising, and teaching my 5 children. I can now boast 8 beautiful grandchildren. Still, when with family, I am the mousy middle child with not much to contribute. For years I struggled to be seen as a grownup. I tried and tried to rise above mediocrity. Silly me, why would they listen to some one with nothing much to contribute? (duh?) I tell you now, it was like beating my head against a brick wall! And, it spoiled many a holiday for me. I was too upset to even enjoy the food!
The truth is, THE HOLIDAYS ARE NOT THE TIME TO SOLVE FAMILY PROBLEMS! (better to use those other 362 days for that)

Here are my great words of wisdom to you:)

"Just smile, ENJOY THE FOOD, and

"If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all." (moms everywhere)

FOUR RULES FOR THE HOLIDAYS

From Romans 14 The Message (MSG)

1. Help others with encouraging words; don't drag them down by finding fault. (vs 20a)

2. There is no need to point out every time they(family members) do or say something you don't agree with. Remember, they have their own history to deal with. Treat them gently. (vs 1)

3. If there are corrections to be made or manners to be learned, God can handle that without your help.(vs 4) None of us are permitted to insist on our own way in these matters.(vs 7) Forget about deciding what's right for each other. (13a)

4. Decide to use all your energy in getting along with each other. (vs 19) especially for the holidays (my addition)

Happy Holidays and may God bless you.
(The photo is Gracie, up to her neck in snow last winter. 2010)

INSPIRATION FOR WOMEN: TODAY I AM THANKFUL FOR............. HOPE

2011-11-14T18:13:00.000-08:00

INSPIRATION FOR WOMEN: TODAY, I AM THANKFUL FOR............. HOPE: I'LL NEVER FORGET THE TROUBLE, THE UTTER LOSTNESS, THE TASTE OF ASHES, "THE POISON I'VE SWALLOWED. I REMEMBER IT ALL OH, H...

TODAY AM THANKFUL FOR............. HOPE

2011-11-14T10:14:00.001-08:00

I'LL NEVER FORGET THE TROUBLE,

THE UTTER LOSTNESS,

THE TASTE OF ASHES,

"THE POISON I'VE SWALLOWED.

I REMEMBER IT ALL
OH, HOW WELL I REMEMBER
THE FEELING OF HITTING THE BOTTOM. "
(Lamentations 3:19,20)

Are you there now?

Perhaps you are grieving the loss of someone or something dear to you, maybe a dream unfulfilled, a relationship never mended, a goal not achieved, a character flaw never conquered.

I have hit the bottom twice:

once in serving myself by committing adultery,

the other, in allowing fear to rule. instead of God.

The first one left me ashamed, humbled.

The second one left me suicidal, hopeless,

hanging on by my fingernails

"BUT THERE'S ONE THING I REMEMBERED,

AND REMEMBERING, I KEPT A GRIP ON HOPE:

GOD'S LOYAL LOVE COULDN'T HAVE RUN OUT.

HIS MERCIFUL LOVE COULDN'T HAVE DRIED UP.

THEY'RE CREATED NEW EVERY MORNING!"

(Lamentations 3:21-23)

With God's direction, medical help, and many months of recovery time,

I worked my way out of the pit.

No matter what 'pit' you are in today

God's merciful love is there for you tomorrow.

I am praying that you will follow His direction out of darkness, into Light.

INSPIRATION FOR WOMEN: I WILL BE THANKFUL...........TODAY!

2011-11-09T16:02:00.000-08:00

INSPIRATION FOR WOMEN: I WILL BE THANKFUL...........TODAY!: TODAY I AM THANKFUL FOR: THE CHILDREN IN MY LIFE ABBY NATALIE AND JENNICA today I spent the day with three of my eigh...

I WILL BE THANKFUL...........TODAY!

2011-11-09T15:53:00.000-08:00

TODAY I AM THANKFUL FOR:

THE CHILDREN IN MY LIFE

ABBY

NATALIE AND JENNICA

today I spent the day with three of my eight grandchildren.....
WHAT A DELIGHT FOR ME!

just kidding

Do you have children in your life?

be thankful for them

Once there was a man named Simeon. He waited his entire life for God to answer a very specific prayer. One day when he was very, very old, God lead him to the temple. There, he saw with his own eyes the long awaited answer to his prayer. He saw a child (baby), who was the Savior . Now, he could die in peace. Luke 2:25-32

ARE YOU WAITING ON A LONG AGO PRAYER?
REMAIN HOPEFUL
YOUR DAY WILL COME!

INSPIRATION FOR WOMEN: JUST FOR TODAY.......... I WILL BE THANKFULToda...

2011-11-07T17:30:00.000-08:00

INSPIRATION FOR WOMEN: JUST FOR TODAY.......... I WILL BE THANKFUL

Toda...: JUST FOR TODAY.......... I WILL BE THANKFUL Today, my daughter and I walked to the Municipal Building to get her license renewed (18 y...

2011-11-07T17:17:00.000-08:00

JUST FOR TODAY.......... I WILL BE THANKFUL

Today, my daughter and I walked to the Municipal Building to get her license renewed (18 yrs this month!) and get my very first passport! It was such a gorgeous fall day, with the sun shining hot, to warm us against the crisp temperature.

Once there, we discovered it was the wrong location for passports and Grace's current license was in her other purse (at home).

It was an uphill, against the wind, walk home. But, worth it, to spend time together.

Next, I drove to the County Building for my passport..... only to find out that I couldn't pay with cash or card and I never carry my checkbook with me anymore.

Back in the car and a, not so quick grocery stop on the way home, left me worn out.

SO.................... TODAY I AM THANKFUL FOR:

LEFTOVERS!

Mark 8:6-10

The Message (MSG)

^6-10So Jesus told the crowd to sit down on the ground. After giving thanks, he took the seven bread loaves, broke them into pieces, and gave them to his disciples so they could hand them out to the crowd. They also had a few fish. He pronounced a blessing over the fish and told his disciples to hand them out as well. The crowd ate its fill. Seven sacks of leftovers were collected. There were well over four thousand at the meal.

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR TODAY?

(oh, come on, there must be something:)

God bless you.

JUST FOR TODAY................ I WILL BE THANKFUL

2011-11-06T21:04:00.000-08:00

THANKFUL

for:

Luscious

Looking

PIES

Made by My daughter and I on a Warm Autumn Day

What are you thankful for today?

Psalm 100

the thanksgiving psalm

On your feet now--applaud God!

Bring a gift of laughter,

sing yourself into His presence.

Know this: God is God, and God, God.

He made us; we didn't make him.

We're his people; his well-tended sheep.

Enter with the password: "Thank you!"

Make yourselves at home talking praise.

Thank him. Worship him.

For God is sheer beauty,

all-generous in love,

loyal always and ever.

( the Message Bible)

AT DEATH'S DOOR

2011-10-22T20:05:00.000-07:00

"What can you ever really know of other people's souls--
of their temptations, their opportunities, their struggles?
One soul in the whole creation you do know:
and it is the only one whose fate is in your hands."
C.S.Lewis

photo from Fall Motorcycle Ride2011

My sister died on October 3rd, 2008, just 3 days after my daughter and I had come by for a visit. How could we have known that it would be the last time we saw her alive. She was trying to speak to us, but was so utterly weak, we had to place our ear right up to her mouth. With the greatest of effort, she told us that she had put her faith in Jesus Christ . We were shocked to tears! ...... Don't get me wrong, it was not a 'bonding' moment' between us. On the contrary, she managed to communicate further, that it had absolutely nothing to do with me! Not surprising, as she had spent the last 30 years mocking my faith in Christ. I was happy anyway!

Dianne had almost everything she wanted in life. She was incredibly smart, a member of *Mensa. She had several successful careers and a bank account beyond millions. She was married to her high school sweetheart. She traveled world wide and fully enjoyed her passion for golf.

She had a solid grip on her life; until cancer grabbed ahold and wouldn't let go. She was 51 years old. After that, her resources were used to try and break free of it. It took 6 years of courageous fighting, to bring her to the end of herself. I could hardly recognize my own sister on the last day I saw her.

I love a country grave yard. so peaceful

I have so many unanswered questions about Dianne. Why did she dislike me so? (perhaps some of you could answer this easily, but please don't) Why did my 'born again' experience escalate us into all-out war? And, most baffling of all was her 'death-bed' confession of faith in Christ.

Taken on our Fall Motorcycle Ride last month

I may never know what was in the heart of my sister. I can only speculate as to what caused such a change of heart in those last days:

It must have become crystal clear to her that money, status and intelligence were useless to save her life. She must have been keenly aware that she was facing Death's Door! I don't suppose anyone can truely imagine what that would be like; how one might feel tetering on the precipice between life and death.
Would we feel: desperation or anticipation, fear or excitement, regret or satisfaction, confusion or clarity, terror or tranquility? No doubt it would be intense beyond description! So devastating as to cause her to make such a preposterous decision.

More than likely, we will all face our own "moment of decision" about life (or not) after 'death'. Whether we make that choice sooner rather than later may make all the difference as to how we feel standing on that precipice.

It seems to me that, in the end, Dianne made the most intelligent decision of all. She chose Christ. I can imagine her seeing Jesus, face to face. And finally, being at peace.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-8 New International Version (NIV)
I hope she experienced true Freedom, in the knowledge that everything has been taken care of.
"God loved the people of this world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die." John 3:16 Contemporary English Version (CEV)

I have more assurance than ever; knowing that my, very smart older sister decided to trust Christ as her Savior.

Imagine........ Dianne, strengthening my faith?!
God is truely the creator of irony! ;)

*Mensa is a high IQ society

INSPIRATION FOR WOMEN: THE HARVEST

2011-10-05T12:42:00.000-07:00

INSPIRATION FOR WOMEN: THE HARVEST: I searched my bean plant and found nothing. About to give up, I noticed two beans. The zucci...

THE HARVEST

2011-10-05T10:44:00.000-07:00

I searched my bean plant and found nothing.

About to give up, I noticed two beans.

The zuccini plant looked barren as well.

Until I got right up close.

It turns out there was a harvest, I just needed eyes to see it.

UNDER THE CLOTHES RACK

2011-09-28T08:27:00.000-07:00

The book of Exodus (13:21-22) tells the history of God leading the Israelites on their journey through the desert to their promised land.
"God went ahead of them in a Pillar of Cloud during the day to guide them on the way, and at night in a Pillar of Fire to give them light; thus they could travel both day and night. The Pillar of Cloud by day and the Pillar of Fire by night never left the people."
My kids have always been Clingons, (yes, I am a Star Trek fan). They were so desperately afraid of losing me, I seldom had to worry. There were a few times in the department store when they would get carried away playing together, hiding under the circular clothing racks and I might wander a few racks away before they realized and came running to cling to my leg until the panic subsided.
I think I’m pretty much a cling-on when it comes to God. Since turning my life over to Him and becoming His daughter, I don’t wander too far off. There have been times though, much like the one horrific time our second oldest daughter, Amy, got lost in J.C.Penny. She wisely went to a sales person and they made a public announcement to which I quickly responded. This was such a devastating experience she will never forget it.
I have wandered from God a few times. It’s scary to be without guidance in this world. Mostly, when I’ve lost sight of my Heavenly Father it has been by accident too. I get caught up playing with the things of this life until I realize it's kind of dark and lonely here.
If you are in need of some light and guidance today, step out from under the clothes rack and search...... desperately...... until you find God.

love to you, from me:)

Inspiration for Women: GREAT EXPECTATIONS

2011-05-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

Inspiration for Women: GREAT EXPECTATIONS: "Are you a perfect mom? Do you have a perfect child? I've always known that I was not a perfect child. My mom was 38 years old when I was b..."

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

2011-05-25T20:05:00.001-07:00

Are you a perfect mom? Do you have a perfect child?

I've always known that I was not a perfect child. My mom was 38 years old when I was born. Eighteen months later my twin brother and sister arrived. In my mom's mind we three were one entity known as, 'you kids'. If any one of us misbehaved, all three of us were in trouble. There's one phrase I heard 100's of times growing up........."You kids could test the patience of a saint!" I never thought I was perfect.

Not much has changed over the years. Just last week, four distraught moms, confided that their sweet little girls were 'out of control!'

Oh how I can identify! My first child was about 18 months old. We were playing a card game together. Suddenly, she flew into a rage and hurled the cards across the room. In a state of shock, I marched her into her room and closed the door. I crawled around the room, tears wetting the floor, picking up cards while listening to her blood curdling screams and violent kicks against the door! There was a MONSTER in my little girl's bedroom! Where had I gone wrong.

I thought that if I raised my child with love and compassion, she would be happy. I was wrong! I was just naive enough to think that my college parenting classes had prepared me to rise above all other moms and raise the perfect child.

I so longed for peace and harmony in my family. I thought there must be some way to make it happen. But every birth was painful. Every baby cried for no apparent reason. Every toddler pushed the bounders. Every teenager bruised my ego.

It took a lot of time, a lot of trials and a lot of truth to set me straight.

The truth:
I am human and so are my children, perfection is IMPOSSIBLE for us.

If you are expecting perfection in yourself, your children, your parents, anyone, ...CHANGE YOUR EXPECTATIONS, NOW!

Then, do yourself and everyone else a favor; learn to forgive: yourself, your children, your parents, EVERYONE!

Then enjoy a blessed life of peace. Ahhhh

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Colossians 3:12-14

LIGHT MY WAY

2011-03-01T11:22:00.000-08:00

Once when I was in a cave, our guide turned out the light. Utter darkness enveloped me. He told us that twenty four hours in this complete darkness would result in blindness. I felt the blackness squeezing the breath out of me. Panic welled up inside me like never before. I felt terror stricken and utterly alone even though there were 20 or so people with me. I couldn’t see them, feel them or even hear them. No one dared speak. We spent just one minute in complete darkness. I will never enter a cave again.

Feelings can be the greatest of deceivers! Fear can be so overwhelming that we forget that God is right there with us. We can feel lost and alone like I did in the cave.

So what do we do when we have lost our way and can't feel God"s presence? When emotions turn on us, we can turn to the words of God to show us the way.
“I would have despaired and perished unless your Word had been my deepest delight. I will never lay aside your Words, for you have used them to restore my joy and health.” Ps. 119:92-93

I'm so glad that we don't have to be Bible scholars to hear from God. Many times I have been comforted by just one verse.
I was in labor with my fourth child, waiting for my husband to get out of the shower before heading to the hospital. It was 3a.m. so my three children were sleeping. Suddenly, I felt the overwhelming urge to push. This urge is much like what you feel just before you vomit. Try holding that back! I was about to have this baby all alone in my bed! I screamed to my husband that we had to leave NOW! We still had to get the kids up and in the car and pick up my pastor's wife who was going to look after the kids during the delivery. I grabbed the phone and called a lady who had been praying for me. I held my wits by clinging to this verse, which she gave me just before I hobbling out the door.
"The God of your fathers is your safe resting-place, and under you are his eternal arms": Deuteronomy 33:27
Even though it was taken totally out of context, I put my faith in these words and I just knew beyond a shadow of a doubt, that God would hold my baby in place until we reached the hospital. Thank God, He meets us where we’re at!

During times of fear, when we feel completely alone and lost, God provides a means of communication. Through His Word we can actually hear God speaking to us and receive reassurance that He is there. "When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, " I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12
I can tell you from experience, there is light at the end of your tunnel. Just keep inching forward the best you can.

It's not WHAT you know, but WHO you know, that really counts.

2011-02-18T07:49:00.000-08:00

Once, many years ago, I found myself standing before a judge, in a court of law . The judge was about to pronounce sentence on our little group of protesters. There I waited, not knowing if I would be going home to cuddle with my 2 year old. Would I be tucking my girls into their beds, kissing them good night, sleeping comfortably with my husband by my side? Or would I be in jail, surrounded by strangers?
Our trial before a Judge, lead up to this moment. It was the day of sentencing. We were keen on getting a particular Judge, one who could identify with us and pass down an empathetic judgement. When it came right down to it, what we had done was not as important as who would judge us.
Many people think of  God as a harsh Judge.  Their image of God, is one of cold, calculated, indifference.  He seems far removed from them in all respects. Envisioning themselves in His presence, they'd be pitifully insignificant, helpless, engulfed by shame.
However, when it comes to Jesus, we have a different reaction.  Jesus is kind, compassionate, loving. He cares about us. His love for us is so great that he allowed himself to be falsely accused, treated shamefully and made to stand before a cruel judge, in a Roman Court of Law. He was taunted, teased, hung on a cross, shamefully exposed. He died in agony. Most humiliating of all, he was killed by the people he came to rescue.
Jesus wore flesh. He is the one who can identify with us and pass down an empathetic judgement.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son, that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. John 5:22 (NIV)
And he (God the Father) has given him (the Son)the authority, simply because he is the Son of Man , to decide and carry out matters of judgment. John 5:27 (The Message)
{parentheses are my additions}

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My story has a happy ending. I went home!

Our lives can have a happy ending too. We can go Home!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY or Don't Look Back

2011-02-14T19:48:00.000-08:00

I thought it would be fun to look up the origin of Valentine's day.  I was wrong!  I was attempting to find some heartwarming tidbit of information. Instead I found death, sacrifice and superstition.   I wish I had been content with the Valentines of today, with it's hearts and flowers and chocolate and love.
Why do we delve into the past?  Are we looking for the "good old days" that imply our "present days" are in some way defective? It seems to me, the good old days are nothing more than good memories of old days. The bad is conveniently left out. An altered past makes for sweet, but inaccurate memories.  The present can never measure up to an edited past?
I think we would all be better off leaving the past to memory and living for today. (*) The past only serves to hold us back.  Even Jesus was judged by his past. In John 6:2-5 his earthly brothers spoke sarcastically to him. They knew that he was not seeking popularity or position. In fact, to do so in Judea was dangerous, since the authorities were seeking to kill him.
When the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles was near, Jesus' brothers said to him,
"You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do. No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world,"
For even his own brothers did not believe in him.
The old adage, "familiarity breeds contempt" is all too true in this instance.   Those who knew him as a child did not recognize him as the Messiah. It's like refusing to value diamonds because, as a kid, you played on the rock from which they came. Not until Jesus returned from death, did the past become inconsequential, enabling everyone to see that Jesus was the Christ, the Messiah, God in flesh.

What a tragedy to be attending to the past only to miss the treasure in front of your face! Sadly, it happens everyday, in my life, in your life and all around us. We must be on the alert so as not to make this mistake with our own children. I know it is hard, day in and day out in the company of children, to pay attention. The tasks at hand can be overwhelming. There is no judgement from me, remember, I am one of you. I have only compassion for you. I do not want you to have regrets. Keep in mind that the children in your life will not wait for your attention. They will grow and change every single day, whether you are watching or not.  Be aware of them and their world. Parent them, not only for who they are right now, but for who they will be in the future. Look into their eyes seeking to understand. Listen to the why of their words. Seek out the yearnings of their soul. Most importantly, love whomever you discover them to be.  They are a person with a God given purpose. Your job is to help them discover it.
Please do not over react and begin to "stalk" your children as a result of what I've said. Keep in mind that this too, can be overdone. Ignoring your own needs has tragic results as well. Finding balance is the best thing you can do for yourself and your family.
Above all else, know that God is your constant companion. He will enable you in your roll as a parent. In that knowledge, have confidence, seek his council, always.

I wish you all a Happy "Hearts, Flowers, Love, Chocolate" Day!
Thank you for stopping by:)

(*Having said that, I know from experience that memories of bad experiences hold us captive to the past until we are able to find release through forgiveness.)

NO NEED FOR GREED

2011-02-10T08:30:00.000-08:00

The thermometer tells me it is -11 degrees today! Outrageously nasty!!!
In spite of the weather, I have a reason to celebrate and you do too!

It is PLIMSOLL DAY! Hooray!!

Let me explain: In England, Samuel Plimsoll (1824-1898) convinced Parliament to pass a shipping safety law. Merchant ships were being overloaded with goods, making them dangerous. In the name of safety, the law required each vessel to have a line painted on it, marking the safe water level. If , what became known as the "Plimsoll Line" dipped under the water, there was too much cargo on board to sail safely.
The necessity for such a law should be shocking! The ship's owners were willing to risk the lives of the sailors in order to make more money; in the strictest sense, committing murder.
Since it is Black History Month it is necessary to mention the cargo of slaves who were crammed onto vessels. Slaveship captains packed double numbers of humans into cargo holds because the journey would claim the lives of so many. The slave trade is a tragic example of the evil cruelty of greed.
So, I wonder, what motivates greed? Does an abundance of money provide security, status, freedom? If we look back at the stockmarket crash which caused the Great Depression, it's clear that money provides none of the above.

In John chapter 6 of the Bible, I read of 5,000 men, women and children who followed Jesus to a hillside. It was hot, they were tired and hungry. The situation was ripe for greed to take it's advantage. But Jesus was there. He used the lunch of a child to provide food for 5,000 people. When Jesus is your provider, there is no need for greed.

Have a great day and don't forget to be safe!

BULLYING AND BATHING

2011-02-09T18:12:00.000-08:00

Do you know that every day is a "special day"? Not just in the sense that we should rejoice in that God has given us another day of life, but every day has a title. For example, today is "National Stop Bullying Day".

I don't know if bullying has gotten worse and thus the necessity of it's own day? I do know that bullying abounded when I was a kid. I have a scar on my left temple to prove it. Our neighborhood bully and his buddies threw a rock at me. Apparently, they were lying in wait for some unsuspecting innocent to walk by on the road. It just happened to be me.

Bullies have been around since the beginning of time. The Bible account in Genesis tells of brothers, Cain and Able. Cain was a bully and Able paid with his life.

Even Jesus himself dealt with bullying. In John 5, the religious leaders harassed Jesus for healing a man on the sabbath day. Even though this man had been crippled for 35 years, their main concern was to arrest Jesus for "working" on the Jewish day of rest. Jesus was eventually bullied to death by his own people.
I wish we could make bullying illegal. However,that would mean arresting a couple of 2 year olds from our church nursery. It seems to be a natural part of the human condition. I guess it is proof that we all need the Lord's forgiveness.

_________________________________________________________

On a lighter note, it is also "Read in the bathtub day"!

This holiday falls on the same date every year regardless of the day. I was ignorant if this until today. Well, now that we both know, lets go grab a good book and head for the bathroom and a hot tub.

I can't think of a better way to close out this day!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

2011-02-07T11:01:00.000-08:00

At church today we had another baby battle. My husband, Rob, my daughter Grace and I competed to hold a 6 week old baby during church service. Every week the scenario is the same. We stand in our usual row, singing worship songs. Our 'baby radar' is on full alert, so we are all acutely aware of the baby's family as they take their places in the seats behind us. We sing and bide our time as the family gets settled and unbuckles the baby from her car seat. At any given moment one of us will make the first move and turn with arms outstretched, signaling that he/she wants to take possession of the baby. This morning Rob won out. I have no idea how he knew the exact moment they lifted her from the car seat. It was a bold move on his part and it worked.

Last week, Grace and I almost came to blows over the sweet baby. We had one of those- 'harsh whispers and facial contortions arguments'. You know, the kind where I whisper that I want to hold the baby and she shoots me a solemn faced sideways glance with just a hint of a shake of her head. I counter with a rather shocked look and furrowed brow of disapproval. Then I add a guilt inflicting whisper,
“You could at least share” I say.
She gives a hint of a victory smirk and moves the baby as far from me as she can in the cramped seats. Finally, I stoop to begging in as few words as possible,
"You're not being fair."
My whisper has a sharp edge to it this time. She stares ahead intently as though accusing me of not paying attention to the sermon.
It was intense. I had to remind myself to be the mature one. Fortunately, we were in church and I was hard pressed to forgive her, so I did.
It's a puzzlement to me because she insists that she doesn't like babies and will never have any of her own. Since I am, by nature, a baby fanatic; (and the apple does not fall far from the tree) I've told her that there's not a chance in the universe that she will follow through with her plan. She, of course ignores me, because she is 17 and I know nothing.
So, why are we like this? Rob, Grace and I are all 'touchy, feely kind of people. We like closeness, find comfort in contact. Holding babies is a socially acceptable way to satisfy our desire for closeness.
It's a win/win situation. We provide comfort for the infant and ourselves at the same time Everyone is happy. Win/wins are hard to come by. Compromise is the more common way of things. We each give up something in order to come to an agreement.

As a mom compromise sounds something like this:
“I don't want to do my school work. When you finish your school work, you can play your video game.”
“I don't have to go to the potty. If you go pee-pee on the potty you will get a prize.”
“I don't like broccoli. If you eat your broccoli you can have a cookie.”

As a wife:
“Could you put the kids to bed while I clean up the kitchen?”
“Will you upload these photos for me while I go change the laundry?”
“Yes, I will scratch your head if you will massage my feet.”

As a friend:
“I'll pick up this tab, you can pick up the next one.”
"You're having a party! What can I bring?"

Win/wins are more rare. All the more reason to seek them out whenever possible and treasure them with all your heart.

The best win/win of all is universal and eternal and applies to motherhood, marriage and friendship:

“I love you. I love you too.”

Happy Valentines Day

to my awesome readers!

Please share your own compromises and win/wins with me. I will post them on my next blog. By doing so, we can help each other and that is a win/win for all of us:) Thank you

*If you are having trouble posting a comment you can email me at: kacharpentier@gmail.com or post on my facebook page Kim Kastner Charpentier

Final Words

2011-02-04T13:55:00.000-08:00

Recently, I was looking through some old journals and notebooks. I came across a "Last Will and Testament" composed in 1983. Along with the usual legal documents, the envelope contained three, hand written pages, one for each of our daughters at that time.

With curious anticipation, I unfolded the pages, wondering at the content of my heart. Would my words be foolish or naive in light of 28 years of maturity?

On the contrary, I found sentiments that, even now, I want to leave with my children.

The following contains a small part of each letter.

Dearest daughter,
You are my beloved. You are so special. I have seen compassion and tenderness in you. They are great gifts from God.

When I think of you, one of your favorite childhood songs comes to mind.

"Love is a patient thing,

love is a kind thing,

loves not corroded

with doubt or anger.................."

Remember, God is love. He has a great plan for your life!

I give you a gift with everlasting meaning, more precious than jewels, to keep in your heart forever. It is a portion of God's Word especially for you, from me, with my love.

Each letter concludes with "God inspired" Bible passages. More than ever, I am confident that that is the most valuable thing I can leave with them.

Now, I must go and write letters to the rest of my children. As we all know, kids are sticklers on fairness.

I leave you with a smile and a Scripture to help 'ward off' the February Funk.

"Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.

Worship the Lord with gladness;

come before him with joyful songs.

Know that the Lord is God.

It is he who made us, and we are his,

we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving

and his courts with praise;

give thanks to him and praise his name,

For the Lord is good and his love endures

forever;

his faithfulness continues through all

generations."

Psalm 100

So, whenever you feel like shouting this month, be sure it is joyful, gladness, praise and thanksgiving that you are shouting about. We can do this together.

Thank you for reading. I love comments!

LAUGH OUT LOUD!

2011-01-21T08:15:00.000-08:00

My daughter sent this to me and I must share it with you, my readers. Enjoy;)

Reasons Not To Mess With Children

A little girl was talking to her teacher about whales.
The teacher said it was physically impossible for a whale to swallow a human because even though it was a very large mammal its throat was very small.
The little girl stated that Jonah was swallowed by a whale.
Irritated, the teacher reiterated that a whale could not swallow a human; it was physically impossible.
The little girl said, 'When I get to heaven I will ask Jonah'.
The teacher asked, 'What if Jonah went to hell?'
The little girl replied, 'Then you ask him'.

A Kindergarten teacher was observing her classroom of children while they were drawing. She would occasionally walk around to see each child's work.
As she got to one little girl who was working diligently, she asked what the drawing was.
The girl replied, 'I'm drawing God.'
The teacher paused and said, 'But no one knows what God looks like.'
Without missing a beat, or looking up from her drawing, the girl replied, 'They will in a minute.'

A Sunday school teacher was discussing the Ten Commandments with her five and six year olds.
After explaining the commandment to 'honour' thy Father and thy Mother, she asked, 'Is there a commandment that teaches us how to treat our brothers and sisters?'
From the back, one little boy (the oldest of a family) answered, 'Thou shall not kill.'

One day a little girl was sitting and watching her mother do the dishes at the kitchen sink. She suddenly noticed that her mother had several strands of white hair sticking out in contrast on her brunette head.
She looked at her mother and inquisitively asked, 'Why are some of your hairs white, Mum?'
Her mother replied, 'Well, every time that you do something wrong and make me cry or unhappy, one of my hairs turns white.'
The little girl thought about this revelation for a while and then said, 'Mummy, how come ALL of grandma's hairs are white?'

The children had all been photographed, and the teacher was trying to persuade them each to buy a copy of the group picture.
'Just think how nice it will be to look at it when you are all grown up and say, 'There's Jennifer, she's a lawyer,' or 'That's Michael, He's a doctor.'
A small voice at the back of the room rang out, 'And there's the teacher, she's dead.'

A teacher was giving a lesson on the circulation of the blood. Trying to make the matter clearer, she said, 'Now, class, if I stood on my head, the blood, as you know, would run into it, and I would turn red in the face.'
'Yes,' the class said.
'Then why is it that while I am standing upright in the ordinary position the blood doesn't run into my feet?'
A little fellow shouted,
'Cause your feet ain't empty.'

The children were lined up in the cafeteria of a Catholic elementary school for lunch. At the head of the table was a large pile of apples. The nun made a note, and posted on the apple tray:
'Take only ONE . God is watching.'
Moving further along the lunch line, at the other end of the table was a large pile of chocolate chip cookies.
A child had written a note, 'Take all you want. God is watching the apples.'

Christmas Peace/ Where is it, anyway?

2010-12-27T22:35:00.000-08:00

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 (KJV)
Jesus is referred to as the Prince of Peace, yet he was arrested for, of all things, disturbing the peace. When asked by Pilot what was his crime, the religious leaders answered as follows:
But they were vehement. "He's stirring up unrest among the people with his teaching, disturbing the peace everywhere, starting in Galilee and now all through Judea. He's a dangerous man, endangering the peace."
Luke 23:5 (The Message Bible)

The unbelievable irony of it!! The Prince of Peace, disturbing the peace!?
This "peace" to which religious leaders referred, was not peace at all. It was "control" by way of fear, deception and imposed ignorance of the scriptures. Jesus revealed this false peace by teaching the way of true peace. His radical truth caused a commotion.
The fact is that Jesus never intended to bring a superficial temporary peace. But, rather a lasting peace, inner peace that could not be shattered by events or circumstances.
So, God/Jesus was born and lived among us and eventually loved us to death (on a cross). That same love, should you choose to accept it, forgives your past and assures you a future of goodness and mercy.
Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 (NLB)

Jesus words to his followers:
I am leaving you with a gift-----peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn’t fragile like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid. John 14: 27(Living Bible)

So, Christmas Peace, where is it? It is in your heart and your mind when you know you are loved and forgiven by God.
I pray that you will live in true peace for the rest of your life!

I am grateful to all of you who have read my blog this past year. I hope you will continue in the coming year, 2011.

Happy New Year!

Memories of Grace (1917-2007)

2010-11-08T10:15:00.000-08:00

November is a special month because I associate it with my mom. Every year we celebrated my mom's birthday on Thanksgiving. I have wonderful memories of the the Great Thanksgiving Feast. My mom was a great cook! Best of all, it was a rare opportunity for us to give back to mom, in return for all she gave us, day after day, month after month, year after year.

Please indulge me as I dedicate this month's blog to Mom. The following are some random journal entries from past years, about my feelings for her.
               _______________________________________

My childhood is fraught with worrisome memories, the more carefree ones are slowly, with the passage of time, infiltrating my thoughts and feelings. Predominant among the happier memories of my childhood are those of my mom. She was a constant bright spot in my life and for that I am grateful. From a very young age I remember playing all day with my neighborhood friends, never giving a thought to what Mom might be doing for all those hours. But, when playtime was over and I returned home, she was always there. I could stake my life on it.
              _________________________________________

When I was 11 years old, our family moved from the only neighborhood I had ever known. I will never forget the agony of that first school day as the 'new kids'. I was responsible for getting my twin brother and sister, who were two years younger than me, to school. We walked the pathways through the park, to Woodbury Elementary. As we waited for the doors to open, one girl began to make fun of my sparkly, blue, wing- tipped glasses. Up to that point, I was unaware that my glasses were anything but lovely. However, from that moment on, I despised them.
My old school was comfortable and friendly. I felt as though I hadn't merely change schools; I had entered the Twilight Zone. My social life was never the same; it was more work and less fun.
Thankfully, my home life remained constant. At the end of that day, as with every other day of my life, my mom was waiting when I got home. She was the same, a temporary reprieve from the fearful new world I had entered. Her constancy gave me the bit of peace and security that calmed my worrisome mind.
                   ________________________________________

My mom will be 89 years old this month. She is probably drawing very near to the finish line of her life. She works very hard for each small distance now. I have to yell at her just to make conversation. I must pack diapers when we go out to eat. I have to hold her hand to prevent her from taking a tumble; we park very close to the entrance because she is not strong anymore. I’m so very worn out after a short outing with her. Sometimes I cry while driving home. I’m not sure if I’m crying for her, or for me. Maybe both.
                 _____________________________________

I’ve wondered how I will cross the finish line when my time comes. Will I race across like the first finishers in the Twin Cities Marathon that I have watched from the nursery window at my church for the past 8 years? Maybe I’ll jog slowly across with my feet heavy and my breathing labored. Perhaps I will have to walk the last mile or two and reserve what little energy I have, just to finish. My mom is staggering clumsily, but determinedly fighting for each step closer to the end. Maybe by the end she will need to be carried across by those of us who love her. I hope not, but it is not up to me, so I just wait and watch and hope and pray that she will be able to finish on her feet. She has always liked being independent.
                     ______________________________________

I must wait and watch my mom suffer daily with a body that is so broken and frail that she is a prisoner in it day after long day. I must trust God for her and love her through it.
                   ______________________________________

My mom died three weeks ago. She was ready to go, and I had seen her suffer enough to be ready to let her go. It was time for her to go Home and find her own peace and security. Life had become too hard. It seemed to take and take and take and give nothing in return.
                ____________________________________

I am glad for her. She is happy, and most of the time I am too. I had a very sweet thought the other day. When it is my time to go Home, as always, she will be there waiting for me. Just like in those days of long ago, when I was a child in my old neighborhood. I don’t know what Mom is doing for all these hours and days while I “play” at life. But, it is the easiest thing in the world for me to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that when my “playtime” is done and I head for Home, she will be there.
                    _______________________________________

Mom loved to give the perfect gift. It was a trademark of her character. The day before she left this earth, she gave me the most precious gift of all. As I stood by her hospital bed, trying to be a comfort to her as she was rapidly fading away, she looked at me with grave sincerity and said, “I’ll be waiting for you, I’ll see you then.”............... I felt a 'vacuum', a black hole where my heart should have been, as I replied, “I know, Mom, I’m looking forward to it.”

Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside still waters, He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His names sake.

Yea thou I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, For thou art with me His rod and His staff, they comfort me. He prepares a table before me in the presence of my enemies. He anoints my head with oil, my cup over flows.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Beautiful in His Eyes

2010-10-07T12:06:00.000-07:00

Why do my negative feelings last so much longer than my positive ones? I know God doesn't want it that way. *(Philippians 4:8) The compliments and pats on the back and victories, seem to pass like shooting stars and then fade out completely. Whereas the criticisms and mistakes are forever before me, reminding me of my inadequacy.

I wish it wasn’t this way.

I hate it when my daughter looks at her perfectly beautiful face and finds the tiny little thing that she perceives as a flaw. When I look at her I see indescribable beauty. I wish she could see herself through my eyes.

I wish she would stop comparing herself to others and just be able to truly enjoy being herself.

Perhaps God wishes I could see myself through His eyes. I wonder if He is as sad and perplexed as I am when I can’t make my children see how amazing they are.

Today, let's choose to see ourselves through God's eyes of Love; let's be His Beautiful Creation.

Psalm 100:3 “Know that the Lord is God. It is He who has made us, and we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture.”

Do God a favor today. Notice the good in yourself (and others).

*(Philippians 4:8 “Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds.....................with the best, not the worst ; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse.”)

Thank you for letting me share with you.

Controlling the Outcome

2010-07-07T18:28:00.000-07:00

Last evening, I observed my grandchildren at play. They were laughing and having fun together, when all at once, they began screaming and yelling at each other. Their little faces were all screwed up with hateful expressions. I had a weird sensation of deep sorrow and helplessness watching these little ones, that I love so much, being both victim and perpetrator at the same time. And for what?

It all started because the castle of the Super friends was laying on the floor instead of standing upright. One child wanted to set it upright and the other wanted it on the floor. Thus began this battle over the castle. Within seconds it was no longer about the castle, but about “winning”:controlling the outcome. Their father calmly took over the castle, and the war was quickly ended. With the problem solved, we walked away mumbling, 'boys will be boys'.

Does God feel such sorrow and helplessness when I act against another human being? And for what?
(a true account)

It all started because I did something and someone tattled on me. And while they were tattling, they told a little fib too. I suffered for it. Now, three years later, that same someone did the same thing that I did and I want to tattle on her the same way she tattled on me. But I won't tell a fib, the truth will be enough. I want everyone to know how bad she is and how good I am. It's my turn to win. This time I get to control the outcome.

As it turns out, the only difference between me and my preschool grandchildren is that I should know better. God has given me Grace, (His power and mercy) to overcome the temptation and DO the right thing. So, what's my excuse? Is there some trite little phrase that I can mumble as I walk away?

This is what Jesus has to say in Matthew 5:48 (The Message): In a word, what I'm saying is, Grow Up. You're kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you.

"ouch"!

I tell God year after year, that I want to be like Jesus. Yet once again, I am not willing to be 'judged' by a lie, like He was. I'm not willing to let God control the outcome, like He did.

"Oh God, please forgive me, as I forgive this other child of yours." Amen

(from the Lord's Prayer) Matthew 6:12 and Luke 11:4
Our Father which art in Heaven
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come
Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread
and forgive us our trespasses
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
Lead us not into temptation
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory
forever and ever.

DO YOU BELIEVE IN GHOSTS?

2010-05-03T10:30:00.000-07:00

If you are a 'mom', then you are dealing with a 'dad'. The 'dad' in my life is the father of our 5 children and my husband of 35 years. We have, what I call, a “high-maintenance marriage”. In order for you to understand one reason for this title, I will have to tell you a “ghost story”.It's called:

The Legacy

Once upon a time, there lived a smart, yet sensitive boy. He had a good upbringing in an average American family. His parents wanted the very best for their children: however, they were survivors of difficult times and had some deep wounds. His father was unreachable and his mother was unpleasable. It became a vicious cycle of--- him withdrawing and her demanding--- over and over again. Only God knows what started the whole thing. In the boy's eyes, mom was aggressive and dad was defeated.

( Now I ask you, "How can a boy love an aggressor and respect a defeated victim?" )

Now enter the ghost. The boy's feelings and unanswered questions floated around in his soul like a ghost. He grew up, got a job, got married, bought a home, had a family and lived a successful life, all the while being influenced by the ghost. Of course it was never noticed because ghosts are invisible. However, his wife dealt with it every time she tried to communicate with her husband. She would speak to him, but before the words reached him, they had to pass through the thick fog of:
Impressions, feelings, assumptions and conclusions formed by the boy (a.k.a. the ghost).
By the time they reached his ear, the words sounded aggressive and manipulative. He felt the need to defend himself lest he become the victim, like 'dear old dad'. As with most ghost stories, this one became a nightmare. However..........Thanks to God, the nightmare is over these past two years. The foggy ghost filter is gone, making clear communication possible. This family is now living on the the other side of victory.

Do you ever wonder what kind of a legacy you are passing to your children? " I do." If I could choose a resident 'ghost' as a filter for each of my children as they go through life and it's perils, it would be the Holy Ghost of the Bible. And it would constantly encourage them with words like this:

“ God can do anything, you know---far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us. Glory to God in the church! Glory to God in the Messiah, in Jesus! Glory down all the generations! Glory through all millennia! Oh, yes!”

Ephesians 3:20 (The Message Bible)

Repeat after me: "God loves me."
Thanks for visiting with me, mom to mom.

GOOD OR BETTER?

2010-04-02T13:36:00.000-07:00

continued from previous post...

There was a payoff for being supermom. It was satisfying to be surrounded by a happy, healthy, beautiful family, knowing that I had a hand in it.

However, kids grow up and develop their own lives. Within minutes of getting engaged, my daughters valued the opinions' of their future husbands' over mine. All those years of providing nutrition for their bodies and love for their hearts and teaching for their minds, suddenly seemed insignificant. Of course, they were merely doing what comes naturely. I knew it was a good and necessary transition, but it didn't feel very good to me! I was blindsided by the suddeness of it! I had to just sit down with God and ask,
”What just happened ? Why do I feel like I just woke up and have no idea where I am?”

Here's when the story of Mary and Martha began to make sense to me. I realized that Jesus hit the nail on the head as always. His words to Martha (see last post ) were spoken out of love, not judgement.
“ Mary has chosen what was BETTER, and it WILL NOT BE TAKEN AWAY FROM HER.”
Why is it “better “? Because,“it will not be taken away from her.” Time spent developing a relationship with God will never be taken away. Every precious moment with Him will enrich you forever. That’s the difference between Mary's choice and Martha's.

Just as Jesus was speaking to Martha. He was speaking to me (and perhaps you).

“Kim, Kim, you are worried and upset about many things, caring for your family is good, but do not neglect what is better for you. The things you do for your family will some day come to an end. If you invest yourself in only temporary things, you will feel empty and let down when they are gone. On the other hand, the time you have spent with Me will satisfy, forever. All the changes that occur in a lifetime, your children growing up , experiencing your own aging, the death of parents and other loved ones; none of this can take away from the love relationship you and I have developed over the years. All these things will only draw us closer."

I now see that those verses were not meant to make me feel guilty, God never, ever wants to do that, rather He wanted me to be happy in the long run. (Remember, life is a marathon.)

Happy Easter!!

God is cheering for you, and so am I!

MARY, MARTHA AND ME

2010-04-01T07:36:00.000-07:00

Luke 10: 38-41 (NIV)

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!"
"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, " you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."

I used to hate this story. I saw myself as Martha and took offense at the implication that the woman who was doing all the work around the house and taking care of the needs of the people in her home was doing something wrong. I didn’t like it because it was really scary to imagine what would happen if I started behaving like Mary (and my husband and kids) who took little responsibility for the living conditions in our home. Was I suppose to stop making nutritious meals in order to spend more time in devotions? What about the laundry? What if someone needed something clean to wear? Wouldn’t that be shirking my duty as a homemaker? How about filthy floors and disgusting, germ-filled bathrooms? Wasn’t I suppose to make a home environment in which my family would be healthy and safe?

What about ALL that Lord?

Not to mention I’m saving money by not having to hire a cleaning service and eat out every night. I'm doing my job and setting an example for my children, aren’t I?

TO BE CONTINUED.....

The WAITING GAME (has big payoffs)

2010-02-25T21:13:00.000-08:00

A big part of a mom's time is spent waiting: waiting to conceive, waiting to give birth, waiting for baby's first cry and -ever after- waiting for baby to stop crying,
     waiting for our kids to crawl, walk, run, ride a bike, drive a car and - ever after- waiting for them to come home safely,
     waiting for them to eat, sleep, get dressed, get in the bath tub, get out of the bath tub, get on the toilet , get off the toilet, go to school, come home from school etc. etc. etc..
Women seem to be the great 'waiters' in life.
Look around, you'll see waiting mom's everywhere: in cars, in all manner of offices, in hospitals, on doorsteps, at parks, at pools, at street corners, at schools, waiting, waiting, waiting.
Why all the waiting?
There are so many reasons, so many situations that call for us to wait. What if we could  put all of them into a gigantic soup pot and boil it down?  What would remain, I believe, are the three basic elements of the human soul.
1) Love,
2) Hope,
3) Faith..
We are waiting because we Love beyond ourselves.
We are waiting  because we Hope for the best.
Mostly, we are waiting because when we can do nothing; we have Faith that God will do something.

A Story from Human History

Mary and Mary waited at the tomb of Jesus' burial. Little did they know that their sorrowful waiting would bring a remarkable reward.
After the Sabbath, as the first light of the new week dawned, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to keep vigil at the tomb. Suddenly the earth rolled and rocked under their feet as God's angel came down from heaven, came right up to where they were standing. He rolled back the stone and then sat on it. Shafts of lightning blazed from him.(now that's what I call a reward)
Matthew 18:1-3
The angel spoke to the women,
"There is nothing to fear here. I know you're looking for Jesus, the One they nailed to the cross. He is not here. He was raised, just as he said. Come and look at the place where he was placed.".........
after hearing the angel They ran to tell the disciples. Then Jesus met them, stopping them in their tracks.
" Good morning!" he said. Matthew 28: 6,8 (Now that's a huge payoff!)
These two women were the first to experience the Gospel (Good News). They were the first to see our resurrected Lord. Their sorrow was instantly turned to great celebration!

A Story from My History

I chose to stay in my mom's hospital room during the last week of her life because she told me that she did not want to be alone. She had made the choice to forgo surgery, as well as food and water so as not to prolong her death. She would be gone within a week. But something marvelous happened during those days of waiting for Mom to die. God allowed me to 'peer' through the window of her soul as He prepared her to transition from this life, to the next. I will not even attempt to explain this, as God's rewards are beyond description. I will just say that the 'payoff' for waiting on my mom was beyond imagining.

The next time you find yourself waiting, think of the two Marys and me; and remember, The Waiting Game has big payoffs.

God is cheering for you, and so am I.

A DREAM COME TRUE

2010-02-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

When I was a kid, I dreamed of being in the Olympics, a lofty goal, to be sure. I wanted to be a runner. Can you imagine what it would take to fulfill such a dream? Obviously, more than I was willing to give. I had another dream when I was young, one that I'll bet you had too. I dreamed of being happily married like Cinderella and Snow White and Sleeping Beauty. I wanted to live happily ever after. Can you imagine what it would take to fulfill such a dream? Much more than any of us expected, right?

I fell in love at 16, got married at 19, had my first child at 21 and did most of it for the wrong reasons. If my married life were a book, it would be a romance, fun adventure, parenting manual of do's and don'ts, tragedy and a mystery all wrapped together. If it ended now, it would have a happy ending. But, that remains to be written, and I am glad to leave it in God's Hands.

At present, after 35 years of hard core training with exhilarating successes and devastating failures, with twice packing up my gear to call it quits*, I have, at long last, qualified for the Olympics, the marriage olympics, that is. How do I know this, you may ask?
I don't. Only time will tell for sure.
But, my husband and I have lived this past year 'honestly' with one another. The lofty cloak of judgement has been replaced by a humble t-shirt. There is nothing left to hide, so why try. It is a thing of relaxed, comfort; nothing to prove, it's just me and him and exceptance. It feels like "happily ever after".

I wish I could direct you to a 'link' that would fast-forward you to the "happily ever after" of your marriage.
The only training rules that I can give you are as follows:

1) If you believe in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.........TRUST Him wholeheartedly.

2) Do not be ashamed to seek professional help in times of need and

3) Don't give up on your dream of a happy marriage, no matter how impossible it seems.

"FOR NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD." Luke 1:37 (NIV)

*for details of these instances, go to comments and leave me a message. I will be happy to share with you.

Ohhhhhhh.......To be UNDERSTOOD

2010-01-15T15:05:00.000-08:00

Like the race that day, (see previous post)  I began my marriage marathon with lofty expectations.
     "We would face the challenges of the race together. Our love for each other would be our strength and our happiness, come what may!" I thought.
Like my friend and I, my spouse and I ran at different paces. He had a relaxed style and I had a, “run for all you’re worth” philosophy. For a while, we were able to compromise for the sake of the other, but soon, frustration set in.
     “Why can’t you run a little faster?” I thought. “Are you lazy?”
     “Why can’t you slow down a bit?” he wondered. “Are you uncaring?”

We did not understand each other.

And guess what?........after 35 years, we still don't! I know what makes him nervous and I can “read” and predict his behavior pretty well. But, since I can't get inside his head, I will probably never truly understand him, nor he, me.

So, give it up, ladies!
Release your husband from that expectation and the judgements that go with it. I did, and as a result ,we enjoy running the race together, at our individual paces.

Only God is equipped to handle your need to be understood. Let me explain:
In the book of Exodus, Joseph brings his family to Egypt where they prosper. Joseph dies and when the new king comes to power, he is cruel to Joseph's people, now known as the Israelites. The Egyptians did not understand the Israelite people.
“The Israelites groaned under their slavery and cried out. Their cries for relief from their hard labor ascended to God.
1.)God listened to their groaning.
2.) God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob.
3.) God saw what was going on with Israel.
4.) God understood.” Exodus 2: 23 – 25 (The Message)
God used psyco-therapy before we developed it? (How’d he do that?)
The Israelites turned to God, as did I. God understands me just as He did them.
If you are feeling misunderstood by your husband, your family, your friends? Why not schedule a session with God, the Alpha Psychologist? He wrote the Book on it.
1.) He is Your Confidant and wants to listen. So, talk, talk, talk.
2.) He is your Maker, you are always on His mind. So, trust that you are not, at this moment or ever, alone.
3.) He is The Lover of your soul, 'sees' you inside and out. Be honest, there is no ‘shock factor’ with God.
4.) He is Your Savior who lived this life, he understands you. Your intentions are clear to him. Your thoughts, feelings, hopes, desires, fears, everything, is well known to him. You can, but you don’t have to try to explain yourself . You are loved unreasonably and forever.

If you are worn down by balancing motherhood and marriage. If you want somebody who will just understand how hard you are trying. Then RUN....do not walk......RUN to Jesus. He UNDERSTANDS being misunderstood.
I'm rooting for you, and so is God.

“.....let us run with patience the particular race that God has set before us.” (Hebrew 12:1b) LB

The world may see you as 'just a mom', but God sees you as a Winner

2010-01-12T09:21:00.000-08:00

Race Day

Race day was finally here. My friend and I arrived, registered as runners and got our Numbers'. It felt very 'official' to have a Number. I remember being so excited and a bit nervous.

The horn sounded and we were off. We enthusiastically crossed the starting line as a giant mass of womanhood. It didn’t take long for the mass to spread out into smaller clusters and then individuals or “couples” like me and my friend. I watched with dismay as woman after woman ran by us, including the pregnant lady carrying weights on her back. I had to reign in my competitive nature. My friend and I had, during our months of training, agreed to stick together. Somewhere about mid-race the fatigue set in. I was so discouraged at not being anywhere near the front of the pack. To make matters worse, my friend wanted to walk for a while. She said I could go on ahead without her. Great, now I had her permission. I was flooded with the temptation to strike out on my own.

What should I do, after all, I was taught to always do my best. -----HOLD EVERTHING ---- This is where the teachings of Jesus collide with human teachings. “Our earthly fathers taught us for a few brief years, doing the best for us that they knew how, but God's correction is always right and for our best good, that we may share his holiness.” (Hebrews 12:10) (LB) In God's eyes, my best was to stick to my commitment, even if it meant coming in last. Could I live with the humiliation of loosing to 500 women (some old enough to be my grandmother)? It was a blow to my ego, but a boost to my character.

If you are a mom, chances are you have had to forgo some personal accomplishments because you've committed to run this part of the race for the sake of your children.
God has some encouraging words for you.
In Matthew19:28 and 29, Jesus tells Peter that those who have sacrificed in order to follow Him will be rewarded in the Kingdom of Heaven.........”But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.” Matthew 19:30 (NIV)
In chapter 20 Jesus tells a parable about the owner of a vineyard who hires workers throughout the day and pays them all the same wage at the end of the day, beginning with those who worked the least amount of time. Again he says,......”So the last will be first, and the first will be last.” Matthew 20:16.(NIV)

So, all you moms out there, Take Heart. You are a major contender! Those kids of yours are eternal souls entrusted to you by God. Take up the challenge! Run with Purpose!!

I'm rooting for you, and more importantly, so is God.

“.....let us run with patience the particular race that God has set before us.” (Hebrew 12:1b) LB

For best results........ exercise (your faith) regularly!

2010-01-06T16:35:00.000-08:00

I have never run in a marathon. I ran in a 5K once. A friend and I trained all summer for it by running along the sidewalks in our neighborhood. I'm sure you know that it is imperative to train before actually running in a race.

When my only son was 6 months old, I took him to the clinic because he was feverish and crying. I couldn't calm him down. The doctor's diagnosis was spinal meningitis. I was told to take my baby directly to the hospital. The doctor would order ahead for a spinal tap. I wasn't comfortable taking action until I could talk to my husband. I went home, in spite of the doctor's warning. I needed some time to calm down and pray.
My husband arrived home from work and we headed for the hospital. We were only a block from home when we got a flat tire. That's when I became terrified that our son might die as a result of my indecision. While my husband changed the tire, I had a heart to heart discussion with God. I conceded my helplessness and put my son in His hands. I would trust God, no matter the outcome. In return, He filled me with a melancholy peace.

During our 3 hour wait in the emergency room, our son's symptoms slowly diminished. His temperature dropped and he began to relax. His agitated crying turned to peaceful sleep. By the time they were ready to see him, he was no longer symptomatic. We were happy to be sent home. I was in awe of God.
Like Mary, who.......” treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19) NIV: In my words, “I filed it away in my---God came through for me again---folder.”
This was one of many training sessions over the years. I was exercising my faith in order to make it strong enough for the trying times ahead.
Every time you are tried to the point of calling on God, you are exercising your faith. You are training for your own life-marathon.
For best results..........exercise (your faith) regularly!

My New Years Resolution: I will not Quit! (and this has nothing to do with smoking:)

2010-01-01T13:05:00.000-08:00

Entering the 'Mom Marathon' is a daunting experience. Here you are in the 21st century not knowing how to prepare your children for an uncertain future. Do you think women of the 20th and 15th and 11th centuries had the same concerns? I do. The basic nature of human beings and the basic nature of the earth are the same. My mom had to rinse cloth diapers in the toilet, disposables came out after I had my second child, but they leaked a lot. You have Pamplers Swaddlers (need I say more?) But really, we're all cleaning up the same messes.
“What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again, there is nothing new under the sun.
“ Is there anything of which one can say,
“Look! This is something new?”
It was here already, long ago, it was here before our time.” Ecclesiastes 1:9-10 ”

My mom didn't even have a car to use. Her neighborhood was like a little island that she was stranded on. She did, however, have other moms on the island with her. She made the best of things. I had a car when my kids were young But that just made my island larger. There were still times when I felt completely cut-off from the rest of the world. You have a car, cell phone and facebook, but I'll bet there are still those times for you.
Though it may not always feel like it, I'm here to tell you that you are never alone. You are surrounded by a huge crowd of supporters, cheering you on. You and I are treading upon footprints made by women throughout the ages. All of us, from the very first, to the very last, have or will experience similar trials, temptations and triumphs. In this knowledge, find comfort. From all those who have crossed the finish line ahead of you, take courage. Always remember, you are not alone in what you think and feel and experience.
“ Do you see what this means---all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running----and never quit!
Hebrews 12:1

So, here's my New Years Resolution. Whatever 2010 brings, I will not quit. How about you, are you in this with me? I hope so:)

Out with the Young, in with the Old or Nappy New Year! (opps, I mean Happy New Year)

2009-12-29T09:16:00.000-08:00

Here we are at the starting line of a new year. What are your thoughts as you approach it? I will officially be a senior citizen this year. I must confess, that scares me a little. My human nature is inclined to fear, especially because I am getting old in a society that disdains old age. It feels like I have been removed from the race-of-life and entered into the race-of-death. However, I have a coach that will not allow such thinking. To illustrate this I must tell you a true story from Matthew 15:29-38.

The story takes place on a big hillside out in the country. Thousands of people have been camped out in order to be inspired and healed by a radical new teacher who promises to change their lives forever. After three days this teacher expresses concern for the people because they have long since, run out of food. His 'crew' suggests they send them home, but the teacher knows they are tired and would have to travel a long distance.. He tells 'them' to feed the people. They, of course, are well aware of their surroundings and their total lack of resources. And here is where my coach would say they went wrong. They focused on what they didn't have, instead of what they did have. The teacher asked them

“How much bread do you have?”
They, rather sheepishly, answered,
“Seven loaves, plus a few fish.”

He then took what they had, thanked God for it, and fed over 4,000 people that day, with 7 basket fulls to spare.

In response to this lesson, my very first decision in 2010 will be to run across the starting line with faith instead of fear. I hope you will too, knowing that whatever you have right now, be it a little or a lot, is enough---- IF you trust God with it.

See you next year!

Anticipation

2009-12-23T08:33:00.000-08:00

It's Christmas week and something is missing. I've been shopping, wrapping, baking, decorating, mailing, all the usual stuff. But, "where's the drama?"
The Christmas 'event' was a drama of epic proportions! A nine-month pregnant virgin, desperately anticipating the birth of her son, sets out on a road trip with 'the man in her life'. They can't find a hotel room, so end up camping in a nearby cave. Of course, the baby decides to arrive at this most inappropriate of moments. Everything they need: diapers, wipes, bottles, sleepers, musical bassinet etc., are all back at the house. Then, to their astonishment, guests arrive totally unannounced, and want to see the baby. They are dirty, smelly shepherds who set out from a hill somewhere, with great anticipation of seeing this baby who's birth was announced by real angels. Meanwhile, in a land far, far away, three men of great power and position head out to find the long anticipated baby/king.
And that, my friend, is what's missing--- anticipation. Our home used to be filled with it when our children were young. As a matter of fact, there were times when the excitement was overwhelming. Having said that, I can appreciate the quite, calm of Christmas, now that our children are grown. However, I find myself filled with the anticipation of having my children and grandchildren gathered around our tree on Christmas Day.
So, I guess it's not missing after all; I just had to find it within myself.
Merry Christmas!
Luke 2:1-20

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.
And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem: (because he was of the house and lineage of David).

To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was not room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

And , lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; you shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in the manger.

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

A woman's heart is a deep ocean of buried treasures.

The other side of today

2009-12-22T06:47:00.000-08:00

Have you ever seen a ‘baby race’? Parents eagerly enter, in hopes that their baby will cross the finish line first. Bewildered babies are held at the starting line while proud parents kneel at the finish line. The contenders are placed on the mat and the race begins!

Parents’ begin a frenzied attempt to get their baby’s attention. They shout, whistle, clap, stomp and wave all manner of toys. Mass confusion breaks out at the starting line in response to the mass hysteria at the finish line. Now the babies begin to shout, cry, stomp and wave their arms. Things are really beginning to look hopeless. And then it happens ----------------- one baby catches sight of a familiar face. Parent and child lock eyes . In that moment, the race is won.

I was like one of those confused babies looking for direction.. At the age of 26, with 2 small children and a broken marriage, I declared myself a failure. That's when it all changed for me, that's when I saw the face of love looking at me from the finish line. I chose to 'lock eyes' with Him, and in that moment, the race was won.

There is one who loves you, waiting for you at the other side of today. Move toward Him, and you will cross the finish line a winner.
Hebrews 12:2, 3 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning It’s shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so you will not grow weary and lose heart.”(NIV)

Jesus is yearning for you to lock eyes with him, and run today’s race with confidence.

Time is on your side

2009-12-20T21:06:00.000-08:00

When you think of a marathon, the word that comes to mind is long. I'm here to tell you that long isn't necessarily a bad thing. In the race of life, time is what we all have in common. A long race is a good thing. It means we have time to live a life that is worth all the effort. It means we don't have to rush our way through decisions that may have a huge impact on our lives and the lives of those we love. It means we have time to work out the 'kinks' as we go. We have time to improve our form and find the pace that will make us a winner in the end.
No matter where you are today, you can take comfort in knowing that time is on your side.

“There is time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven:

A time to be born and a time to die,
A time to plant and a time to uproot,

A time to kill and a time to heal,

A time to tear down and a time to build,

A time to weep and a time to laugh,

A time to mourn and a time to dance,

A time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,

A time to embrace and a time to refrain,

A time to search and a time to give up,

A time to keep and a time to throw away,

A time to tear and a time to mend,

A time to be silent and a time to speak,

A time to love and a time to hate,

A time for war and a time for peace.

Ecclesiastes 3: 9-11

Remember the story of the tortous and the hare?

"The race is not always to the swift ........."

You are constantly moving forward. Live the fullness of each mile of your life.