FIVE years? Seriously?
Five years ago today I sat down and opened up my first blog at Faithprints. The core group of ladies I met there are still bloggy buddies of mine. They watched and read as I recovered from Pojke's delivery, lost 2 more angels to heaven, lost DaHubby's brother to cancer, and witnessed the miracles of DaHubby's sister surviving leukemia and our church elder walk after break his back after falling while cleaning his gutters.
I've participated in countless challenges and even hosted a few.
And, right on the edge of deciding whether or not to step up and start earning money blogging, I basically walked away. Life was just too complicated. Twitter and Facebook took away my desire to contemplate and fill out a fleeting substantial thought while we buckled down under DaHubby's school, layoff, graduation, hiring, and moving away over the last three years.
I miss blogging regularly. I really do. I'm now more interested in my original idea as an online journal as opposed to all the "stuff" I was doing before. I miss chronicling the Vikings adventures because, while Facebook will capture moments and an occasionally picture, I really wanted to document and archive more than that for the long-term.
So, here's to another re-commitment to blogging. The upcoming move from Michigan to north-central Illinois has got me jumpy - partially from anxiety and worry and partially from excitement. And, I don't want to miss a moment!
Thanks to the original Faithprints ladies (Anita and Sara in particular) and those I've met since who continue to root for me and encourage me and my writing. The dormant English teacher in me appreciates the validation. LOL
Here's to another year of self-discovery and archiving!
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
August Challenge results
Well, I scored a B. I missed 6 days, earning me an 80% LOL
It felt good to write semi-regularly again but, to be honest, I was struck by how little time I have (or that I make) to follow those random thoughts that seem to turn into great blog posts. Twitter and Facebook steal my momentary flashes of insight, humor, or whatever and then I never take the time to develop them. *sigh*
So the lesson learned? I think Twitter's on the way out and my Facebook use will have to go way down. Those of you who seem to balance all your electronic life - don't know how you do it but I don't think it's in the cards for me.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Favorite Vacation Spot - Revisited
This is a reposted excerpt from a piece I published on 5-16-07.
A friend of mine from way back has a piece of property in Northern Michigan that is right on the St. Mary's River just south of Sault Ste. Marie. His cabin is on Neebish Island. I had my first invite up there around 1993. I have since been blessed to visit several years in a row and, most recently, I have introduced the place to DaHubby, Flicka, and Pojke (then in utero *wink*). It was and is an absolutely perfect slice of heaven.
So, when I saw a call for submissions from Michigan History magazine back in 2003 because they were putting together a special edition in tribute to the "Islands of the Great Lakes", I knew I had my writing assignment cut out for me. But, how could I describe this place in 300 words or less!? This is how:
"It was so little but has had a powerful effect on me.
One little island. One little cabin. Everybody running out on their docks when the distant rumble of engines reaches their ears. At that point, the St. Mary’s River seems almost narrow enough to swim across yet upbound thousand-foot freighters glide by effortlessly several times a day. A single freighter is well worth the drive from downstate.
Neebish Island seems to be the wilderness sister to its neighbor, Sugar Island. Everything about it says “shhhh, don’t tell anyone.” The ferry is harder to find. The signs are harder to notice. It seems quieter, greener, and full of hidden roads, paths, and treasures.
I first arrived at Neebish around 1993 thanks to a dear friend whose family has had a cabin on the island for decades. The wall space over the desk is covered in photos documenting the generations of this family that have used, appreciated, and added on to this piece of property.
Almost everybody along this stretch of beach are distant relatives of the same family. Yet, they are considerate and welcoming of strangers and guests. That includes the unofficial welcoming party of often more than a half of a dozen dogs, well trained and well mannered, who wander freely and play for hours on the beach.
The adopted motto for those using the cabin is “a rainy day at Neebish is still better than a sunny day downstate.” Cell phones are turned off. There’s no television. Only a radio. It takes a day or two but you get on “Neebish time”: eat when you are hungry, sleep when you are tired, read a lot, and visit the rest of the time.
I have been so blessed by this tiny slice of heaven. It is a magical place."
I was selected - as were DaHubby's photos! It was our first published pieces! And, it made my love for this place all the sweeter....
Saturday morning, when this is scheduled to publish, the Vikings and I will be heading north to pick up DaHubby near Big Rapids, then off to Alpena for the night, and then up to Neebish for some family time. We will also make it into "DaSoo" aka Sault Ste Marie - DaHubby's old stomping grounds.
So, when I saw a call for submissions from Michigan History magazine back in 2003 because they were putting together a special edition in tribute to the "Islands of the Great Lakes", I knew I had my writing assignment cut out for me. But, how could I describe this place in 300 words or less!? This is how:
"It was so little but has had a powerful effect on me.
One little island. One little cabin. Everybody running out on their docks when the distant rumble of engines reaches their ears. At that point, the St. Mary’s River seems almost narrow enough to swim across yet upbound thousand-foot freighters glide by effortlessly several times a day. A single freighter is well worth the drive from downstate.
Neebish Island seems to be the wilderness sister to its neighbor, Sugar Island. Everything about it says “shhhh, don’t tell anyone.” The ferry is harder to find. The signs are harder to notice. It seems quieter, greener, and full of hidden roads, paths, and treasures.
I first arrived at Neebish around 1993 thanks to a dear friend whose family has had a cabin on the island for decades. The wall space over the desk is covered in photos documenting the generations of this family that have used, appreciated, and added on to this piece of property.
Almost everybody along this stretch of beach are distant relatives of the same family. Yet, they are considerate and welcoming of strangers and guests. That includes the unofficial welcoming party of often more than a half of a dozen dogs, well trained and well mannered, who wander freely and play for hours on the beach.
The adopted motto for those using the cabin is “a rainy day at Neebish is still better than a sunny day downstate.” Cell phones are turned off. There’s no television. Only a radio. It takes a day or two but you get on “Neebish time”: eat when you are hungry, sleep when you are tired, read a lot, and visit the rest of the time.
I have been so blessed by this tiny slice of heaven. It is a magical place."
I was selected - as were DaHubby's photos! It was our first published pieces! And, it made my love for this place all the sweeter....
Saturday morning, when this is scheduled to publish, the Vikings and I will be heading north to pick up DaHubby near Big Rapids, then off to Alpena for the night, and then up to Neebish for some family time. We will also make it into "DaSoo" aka Sault Ste Marie - DaHubby's old stomping grounds.
Friday, July 31, 2009
My August Self-Challenge
My blogging life has been nearly nonexistent recently. April, May June, and (as of today) July have been averaging a post every 2-3 days down from my year-ago average of at least one a day. Now, I could blame it on Facebook...or Twitter...the summer season distraction...or some other excuse.
To be honest, I just haven't had much to say mainly because I have been strictly in "survival mode" around here while DaHubby starts the second and final year of his degree program. I've spent each waking moment keeping up and hanging on and have had very little time to myself for contemplation and/or development of ideas/thought.
Now, I am looking at the end of summer and the beginning of kindergarten for Flicka in 5 1/2 weeks. I stink at change and this one has had me panicked for most of 2009.
But, I miss it. I miss feeling creative. I miss writing. And, I feel like I let blogging go too easily without thinking about how much I enjoy it. And, now that I have Facebook to keep my family and friends more up-to-date, I can get back to writing posts about deeper than the everyday things.
I ran across the National Blog Posting Month (NaBloPoMo) challenge a while back. At the time, it didn't seem like a big deal. One post per day for one month? So what?! But, now it seems like a long, steep trail. But, I'm taking it for the month of August. One step per day for 31 days which will hopefully get me back in the writing mode.
Anyone up for a hike?
To be honest, I just haven't had much to say mainly because I have been strictly in "survival mode" around here while DaHubby starts the second and final year of his degree program. I've spent each waking moment keeping up and hanging on and have had very little time to myself for contemplation and/or development of ideas/thought.
Now, I am looking at the end of summer and the beginning of kindergarten for Flicka in 5 1/2 weeks. I stink at change and this one has had me panicked for most of 2009.
But, I miss it. I miss feeling creative. I miss writing. And, I feel like I let blogging go too easily without thinking about how much I enjoy it. And, now that I have Facebook to keep my family and friends more up-to-date, I can get back to writing posts about deeper than the everyday things.
I ran across the National Blog Posting Month (NaBloPoMo) challenge a while back. At the time, it didn't seem like a big deal. One post per day for one month? So what?! But, now it seems like a long, steep trail. But, I'm taking it for the month of August. One step per day for 31 days which will hopefully get me back in the writing mode.
Anyone up for a hike?
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Another Dave Ramsey testimony! LOL
The Happy Housewife aka Toni is on vacation this week. When she asked for volunteers to do guest posts while she was gone, I jumped at the chance to write for her as I am incredibly thankful since she is one of the reasons we're doing so well with our grocery budget right now! LOL
Well, she put the post up already tonight for her Frugal Friday post tomorrow! *big smile*
Well, she put the post up already tonight for her Frugal Friday post tomorrow! *big smile*
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Slow Sunday evening
Well, I admit...we're playing "hooky" from tonight's evening service. Everyone is exhausted and we've been running around all weekend.
Friday night was some family time. Saturday was spent with breakfast out, running errands, naps, then our local art fair, dinner, and I don't remember what afterward. LOL
Service this morning was great. Then, my dad and step-mom stopped by on their way from Chicago back tothe southeastern side of the state - they're celebrating my step-mom's big 5-0! *wink* Had a great lunch with them then had a quiet "naptime" with the boys snoozin', Flicka playing quietly in her room, and Momma watching her recent Swap-A-DVD arrival, One Night With The King. Not entirely Biblically accurate but a good watch regardless.
In the midst of all this, I got two emails from my mom...
First, she informed me yesterday that the piece I submitted recently was one of the featured articles choosen for publication. I don't have a link or a copy yet but I'll share when I do.
Then, she emailed again that the photos DaHubby's taken and I submitted for a spot on the Detroit Free Press's website were selected and are featured here. Hit the left arrow backwards from the #1 photo to see DaHubby's at #65 and #69.
So it was a good weekend all the way around (other than some nausea and queasies) and we're settling in to watching movies while DaHubby does his homework! LOL Big excitement, eh?
Friday night was some family time. Saturday was spent with breakfast out, running errands, naps, then our local art fair, dinner, and I don't remember what afterward. LOL
Service this morning was great. Then, my dad and step-mom stopped by on their way from Chicago back tothe southeastern side of the state - they're celebrating my step-mom's big 5-0! *wink* Had a great lunch with them then had a quiet "naptime" with the boys snoozin', Flicka playing quietly in her room, and Momma watching her recent Swap-A-DVD arrival, One Night With The King. Not entirely Biblically accurate but a good watch regardless.
In the midst of all this, I got two emails from my mom...
First, she informed me yesterday that the piece I submitted recently was one of the featured articles choosen for publication. I don't have a link or a copy yet but I'll share when I do.
Then, she emailed again that the photos DaHubby's taken and I submitted for a spot on the Detroit Free Press's website were selected and are featured here. Hit the left arrow backwards from the #1 photo to see DaHubby's at #65 and #69.
So it was a good weekend all the way around (other than some nausea and queasies) and we're settling in to watching movies while DaHubby does his homework! LOL Big excitement, eh?
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
A submission
My mom forwarded me an email address from the newspaper in the town where I grew up. A staff person there was looking for recollections about a camp that the city ran when I was young that is celebrating its 60th anniversary. I just submitted this for possible publication for a special remembrance page of the city's web site.
One of the first perks my mother discovered as a new City of Dearborn employee in 1976 was the resident discount for Camp Dearborn Youth Camp. As a newly-divorced, single mom, it was a godsend. Little did she know how sending me that summer would change my life.
That first summer I met a young girl named Lisa B****. We were 8. We probably never would have met otherwise as she was in DHS territory while I was destined to be a Thunderbird as my parents had been.
Being from different sides of the proverbial tracks proved difficult as Lisa and I got older. The schoolyard battle reached its height when, after seven summers spent together, our friendship and playful rivalry was captured in our final camper photo taken by some now-unremembered counselor. We stood next to each other - me in an Edsel Ford athletic sweatshirt and Lisa in a DHS gymnastics sweatshirt - clowning for the camera. This photo still means more to me than I could ever explain.
It means even more knowing that not only did we spend 7 summers as campers together but proceeded to spend the next three summers as staff together at Youth Camp. And, then even more summers while we were in college wearing pink shirts, green shirts, and red shirts in lower camp! I ended up spending thirteen summers out there and only one was without Lisa. We made up for it by each of us spending our final year at Michigan State rooming together.
I know it’s no longer there but I remember that there was a H-shaped dock in the lake that Youth Camp used for swimming. On the center section that faced out into the deep area was a spot where Lisa and I made our mark: we etched 12 slashes into the wood to represent those initial years of our friendship.
And, I say initial years because as of 2006, Lisa B**** (now Lisa F****) and I have been friends for over 30 years. She is the big sister this only child ever had. She's walked through some of the toughest times of my life during my single years. And, despite now living many miles apart, each of us has been blessed since then to be at the other's wedding as well as the other's baby shower. Between the two of us, we've brought four babies into this world. And, I have another on the way. And, you can bet that each one of them will know about the legacy and the friendships that Camp Dearborn has brought into our lives. I cannot conceive of what my life would have been like if I had not gone to Youth Camp that one summer in 1976.
One of the first perks my mother discovered as a new City of Dearborn employee in 1976 was the resident discount for Camp Dearborn Youth Camp. As a newly-divorced, single mom, it was a godsend. Little did she know how sending me that summer would change my life.
That first summer I met a young girl named Lisa B****. We were 8. We probably never would have met otherwise as she was in DHS territory while I was destined to be a Thunderbird as my parents had been.
Being from different sides of the proverbial tracks proved difficult as Lisa and I got older. The schoolyard battle reached its height when, after seven summers spent together, our friendship and playful rivalry was captured in our final camper photo taken by some now-unremembered counselor. We stood next to each other - me in an Edsel Ford athletic sweatshirt and Lisa in a DHS gymnastics sweatshirt - clowning for the camera. This photo still means more to me than I could ever explain.
It means even more knowing that not only did we spend 7 summers as campers together but proceeded to spend the next three summers as staff together at Youth Camp. And, then even more summers while we were in college wearing pink shirts, green shirts, and red shirts in lower camp! I ended up spending thirteen summers out there and only one was without Lisa. We made up for it by each of us spending our final year at Michigan State rooming together.
I know it’s no longer there but I remember that there was a H-shaped dock in the lake that Youth Camp used for swimming. On the center section that faced out into the deep area was a spot where Lisa and I made our mark: we etched 12 slashes into the wood to represent those initial years of our friendship.
And, I say initial years because as of 2006, Lisa B**** (now Lisa F****) and I have been friends for over 30 years. She is the big sister this only child ever had. She's walked through some of the toughest times of my life during my single years. And, despite now living many miles apart, each of us has been blessed since then to be at the other's wedding as well as the other's baby shower. Between the two of us, we've brought four babies into this world. And, I have another on the way. And, you can bet that each one of them will know about the legacy and the friendships that Camp Dearborn has brought into our lives. I cannot conceive of what my life would have been like if I had not gone to Youth Camp that one summer in 1976.
Monday, January 28, 2008
MOMS Club submission
February is the month for me to write up a little something for the local MOMS Club group we're part of. While for the most part the "mommy politics" have been non-existent, there are cliques and I've made a few faux pas in my year as a member.
Those who have made the choice to wear their brand of faith a little more prominently have had some issues. There's been issues over email signatures lines in emails going to the entire group containing Scripture. Those who don't "do" Halloween and Christmas don't participate in activities with trick or treating and Santa. Those that don't drink generally won't attend the MOMS Nights Out or Couples Nights Out due to the location of the activity (like a bar) or the fact that so many bring wine and beer to gatherings. And, in a group of nearly 60, probably less than 5 are considering home schooling as a long-term solution.
I have been spending time thinking and praying about what I should write for my little get-to-know-me debut. Here's what I wrote this morning...what do you all think?
Never wake a sleeping baby. Read to your kids every day. Prunes and applesauce are a constipated kid’s best friend. Think back (and it’s not too far back for some of us) to when you were a brand new, first time mom. We were inundated with buckets full of advice from well-intentioned folks. Some of it was helpful; some of it was not. And, we are all managing to find our way as moms regardless.
However, I’ve been thinking lately about what is some of the best advice I’ve received. I was thinking of advice that outlasted a particular circumstance or age group. And, was there a golden nugget of advice that could cross the lines of parenting philosophy, political beliefs, lifestyle, and the like. And, it occurred to me that (DaHubby) and I have one that we are trying to use everyday.
“Will this really matter in 20 years?”
Have to have the newest gadget and/or its update? In 20 years, it will be obsolete. The intentional (or unintentional) slight from a friend or family? In 20 years, it could be an event at which you’ll poke fun. The brand new couch covered in White-Out? (Oh yea, that really happened here.) Twenty years from now, it’ll be some college kid’s hand-me-down and that is IF it survives my kids’ childhood.
And, this has been a regular, nearly daily, reminder to me to think about what am I really trying to accomplish as a mom. As I choose activities for them to participate in, as I allot household funds for upcoming events, and as I worry about if I’m doing the right things and making the right choices as a parent, I fall back on this phrase.
“Will this really matter in 20 years?”
(DaHubby) and I have had a couple rough years financially. We have our beliefs to buoy and strengthen us but we’ve also had to make some tough choices about where our money is going. Particularly around Christmas. Our tree only had applesauce ornaments and paper chains this year – partially due to safety, partially due to finances. Each of my babies only got one gift each. We had to scrape together some extra cash to go over to the Detroit area to see my family. And, we went to my family’s homes without store-bought gifts – only baskets with baked goods and some cans of tomatoes from our garden last summer.
Now I don’t tell you all this for sympathy. I tell you this to tell you that despite our money struggles that this really was one of the best holidays we have ever had. No crazy shopping. No breathless running around. Just time. Time to spend hanging out, making popcorn, watching movies, seeing the lights, making cookies, visiting friends, visiting family. And, some down time to just sit and play with the kids and just talk to (DaHubby) was better than any gift we could have bought.
So, as you face the rest of winter and look towards the beginning of Spring, maybe take some time to consider what you are spending your time on. As all moms everywhere know, we only get 24 hours in a day. Are we investing those hours, that sweat and those tears, into something we will be proud to look back on when our babies are off making lives of their own? Instead of wringing every minute out of our days to stick in one more errand, activity, or commitment, maybe we should be looking at some things we can let go of. Things that won’t really matter in 20 years.
Those who have made the choice to wear their brand of faith a little more prominently have had some issues. There's been issues over email signatures lines in emails going to the entire group containing Scripture. Those who don't "do" Halloween and Christmas don't participate in activities with trick or treating and Santa. Those that don't drink generally won't attend the MOMS Nights Out or Couples Nights Out due to the location of the activity (like a bar) or the fact that so many bring wine and beer to gatherings. And, in a group of nearly 60, probably less than 5 are considering home schooling as a long-term solution.
I have been spending time thinking and praying about what I should write for my little get-to-know-me debut. Here's what I wrote this morning...what do you all think?
Never wake a sleeping baby. Read to your kids every day. Prunes and applesauce are a constipated kid’s best friend. Think back (and it’s not too far back for some of us) to when you were a brand new, first time mom. We were inundated with buckets full of advice from well-intentioned folks. Some of it was helpful; some of it was not. And, we are all managing to find our way as moms regardless.
However, I’ve been thinking lately about what is some of the best advice I’ve received. I was thinking of advice that outlasted a particular circumstance or age group. And, was there a golden nugget of advice that could cross the lines of parenting philosophy, political beliefs, lifestyle, and the like. And, it occurred to me that (DaHubby) and I have one that we are trying to use everyday.
“Will this really matter in 20 years?”
Have to have the newest gadget and/or its update? In 20 years, it will be obsolete. The intentional (or unintentional) slight from a friend or family? In 20 years, it could be an event at which you’ll poke fun. The brand new couch covered in White-Out? (Oh yea, that really happened here.) Twenty years from now, it’ll be some college kid’s hand-me-down and that is IF it survives my kids’ childhood.
And, this has been a regular, nearly daily, reminder to me to think about what am I really trying to accomplish as a mom. As I choose activities for them to participate in, as I allot household funds for upcoming events, and as I worry about if I’m doing the right things and making the right choices as a parent, I fall back on this phrase.
“Will this really matter in 20 years?”
(DaHubby) and I have had a couple rough years financially. We have our beliefs to buoy and strengthen us but we’ve also had to make some tough choices about where our money is going. Particularly around Christmas. Our tree only had applesauce ornaments and paper chains this year – partially due to safety, partially due to finances. Each of my babies only got one gift each. We had to scrape together some extra cash to go over to the Detroit area to see my family. And, we went to my family’s homes without store-bought gifts – only baskets with baked goods and some cans of tomatoes from our garden last summer.
Now I don’t tell you all this for sympathy. I tell you this to tell you that despite our money struggles that this really was one of the best holidays we have ever had. No crazy shopping. No breathless running around. Just time. Time to spend hanging out, making popcorn, watching movies, seeing the lights, making cookies, visiting friends, visiting family. And, some down time to just sit and play with the kids and just talk to (DaHubby) was better than any gift we could have bought.
So, as you face the rest of winter and look towards the beginning of Spring, maybe take some time to consider what you are spending your time on. As all moms everywhere know, we only get 24 hours in a day. Are we investing those hours, that sweat and those tears, into something we will be proud to look back on when our babies are off making lives of their own? Instead of wringing every minute out of our days to stick in one more errand, activity, or commitment, maybe we should be looking at some things we can let go of. Things that won’t really matter in 20 years.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Guest post debut
*blush*
My first one in celebration of National Creative Frugality Week. Thank you to Becki for graciously allowing me a voice at her bloggy home today!
My first one in celebration of National Creative Frugality Week. Thank you to Becki for graciously allowing me a voice at her bloggy home today!
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Pensieve Poetic License
Robin selected this month's style and theme: the cinquain and celebration. As there are several forms, traditional and modern, for the cinquain, I just used the one I found that indicated syllables-per-line with no other restrictions or requirements on rhyme scheme or particular parts of speech.
Think of it as a 2-4-6-8-2 syllable version of a haiku! LOL
So, here are some I've been playing around with the past few weeks...
Think of it as a 2-4-6-8-2 syllable version of a haiku! LOL
So, here are some I've been playing around with the past few weeks...
Advent
What is to come
Joyous celebration
Of Christ’s birth and His destiny
Peace reign.
Quiet
The tree, the snow
All little ones in bed
‘Til morning’s loud package ripping
Smiling
Oh eight
Year of promise
Like so many before
New attempts to change, wage battles
Improve
Birthdays
So long between
Each for the little ones
But time flies the more kids you have
Already?
What is to come
Joyous celebration
Of Christ’s birth and His destiny
Peace reign.
Quiet
The tree, the snow
All little ones in bed
‘Til morning’s loud package ripping
Smiling
Oh eight
Year of promise
Like so many before
New attempts to change, wage battles
Improve
Birthdays
So long between
Each for the little ones
But time flies the more kids you have
Already?
Swing by Robin's place today for some other examples. Or better yet - join in!
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Dear Me (1995)
(I know this carnival is over 2 months old but this has been brewing in my mind and floating around on my to-do list for the entire 8 weeks. I didn't mean for it to end up as negative- sounding as it did. Just trying to focus on the whirlwind, grace-covered, hugely powerful change that would be underway shortly...)
Dear 1995 Me,
I don’t know how long I have so let me hit the highlights quickly:
Guy #1 at work you’re dating off-duty? I can’t stress this enough…MARRIED! No matter what he says!
Guy #2 at work interested in you? Run the other way! He’ll be fired for stealing.
Guy #3 revisiting from your past? Bad news. The police report will NOT keep him away initially. Stick to it.
That first time through student teaching will be such a poor combination of location and supervision that you will have to withdraw midway through the semester and start again with a clean slate in a new district. You will think it is the end of the world…especially when the dean pulls you into her office and berates you for embarrassing the entire department and university. You will survive. You will go on to graduate with honors. You will get a good first job. You will be recognized statewide for work you will do in your classroom.
The church you are at now? You should listen more carefully. Pastor will become a father figure you will cherish.
Quit worrying so much about becoming “complete” by finding someone to fill all your gaping emotional holes. Work on healing those holes with God and yourself alone. Corny but true: no one will love you until you love yourself.
Pray. A lot. Often. Listen!
Read. Your. Bible. A lot. Often. Soak it in!
You are not crazy. You are not losing your mind. You are not stupid. You don’t know it yet but you have a medical condition that when treated with the correct meds in the correct dosages will transform your life into one of relative peace and calm. Hang in there!
As crazy as your family can make you, it’ll get worse before it gets better but it WILL get better.
You will be able to keep that final promise to Grandpa H and have babies with double initials in a fourth generation tradition.
You will have a husband that adores you at 150 lbs and at 250lbs while in the throes of childbirth. He will make you laugh until you cry and/or pee your pants. He will make you stronger mentally and emotionally and so much more confident. He will help you make a home you will be proud of. He will introduce you to a church and style of worship that will knock your socks off and have you experience God in a way you can’t imagine right now. How you meet will be a little out of the ordinary but trust that God knows what He’s doing and that His timing is always right. Take the leap – he’s SO worth it!
Finally, I know it seems really dark and depressing right now. Everything hurts and seems out of control. It’s lonely and awkward. What your life is now is not what you had in mind. But, remember that God is in control. And, He is still calling you to Him. I wish I would have heard Him sooner so find Him and run into His arms ASAP.
Sincerely,
Me in 2007
Dear 1995 Me,
I don’t know how long I have so let me hit the highlights quickly:
Guy #1 at work you’re dating off-duty? I can’t stress this enough…MARRIED! No matter what he says!
Guy #2 at work interested in you? Run the other way! He’ll be fired for stealing.
Guy #3 revisiting from your past? Bad news. The police report will NOT keep him away initially. Stick to it.
That first time through student teaching will be such a poor combination of location and supervision that you will have to withdraw midway through the semester and start again with a clean slate in a new district. You will think it is the end of the world…especially when the dean pulls you into her office and berates you for embarrassing the entire department and university. You will survive. You will go on to graduate with honors. You will get a good first job. You will be recognized statewide for work you will do in your classroom.
The church you are at now? You should listen more carefully. Pastor will become a father figure you will cherish.
Quit worrying so much about becoming “complete” by finding someone to fill all your gaping emotional holes. Work on healing those holes with God and yourself alone. Corny but true: no one will love you until you love yourself.
Pray. A lot. Often. Listen!
Read. Your. Bible. A lot. Often. Soak it in!
You are not crazy. You are not losing your mind. You are not stupid. You don’t know it yet but you have a medical condition that when treated with the correct meds in the correct dosages will transform your life into one of relative peace and calm. Hang in there!
As crazy as your family can make you, it’ll get worse before it gets better but it WILL get better.
You will be able to keep that final promise to Grandpa H and have babies with double initials in a fourth generation tradition.
You will have a husband that adores you at 150 lbs and at 250lbs while in the throes of childbirth. He will make you laugh until you cry and/or pee your pants. He will make you stronger mentally and emotionally and so much more confident. He will help you make a home you will be proud of. He will introduce you to a church and style of worship that will knock your socks off and have you experience God in a way you can’t imagine right now. How you meet will be a little out of the ordinary but trust that God knows what He’s doing and that His timing is always right. Take the leap – he’s SO worth it!
Finally, I know it seems really dark and depressing right now. Everything hurts and seems out of control. It’s lonely and awkward. What your life is now is not what you had in mind. But, remember that God is in control. And, He is still calling you to Him. I wish I would have heard Him sooner so find Him and run into His arms ASAP.
Sincerely,
Me in 2007
Thursday, February 1, 2007
"I Am From" - Contest from Owlhaven
(Since I'm on a contest "bender", there's another one I'd like to enter. Owlhaven is running a creative writing contest with the prompt "I Am From..." She has three prizes: one for her "I Am From..." prompt; one for her "I Am..." prompt, and one for the person who refers the most commentors to her site. Soooooo...this post is linked to her contest but should you go there to check out my competition (LOL), please consider leaving a comment that says something like "Beth from Two Little Vikings sent me"! Wish me luck!)
I am the baby born in the city Henry Ford built to high school sweethearts whose marriage didn’t last and who remembers peeking out from under squinty-closed eyelashes to “fake” sleeping while waiting for goodnight kisses from my daddy.
I am the child who played curb ball, flashlight tag, and Frisbee. Who loved swimming and riding my bicycle with no hands. Who dreamed of living in a big city, maybe downtown Detroit or New York City? And never thought she would marry or be a mother.
I am the teenager who was internally fearful and seeking approval while externally appearing outgoing and confident. Who wore eyeliner heated with a lighter and iridescent blue eye shadow and loved chocolate milk shakes and Fritos for school lunch and hated having teachers roll their eyes at my ADD self while still getting A’s and B’s. Who found herself in the ER to have rocks, pebbles, and debris plucked from the tops of my feet from an impulsive, botched “Tarzan swing” attempt on a rope over a lake that ended abruptly in the gravel at the shoreline. And then started dating the guy who had carried me a mile back to car. Who dreamed of getting out of the town I grew up in. And knew I would eventually find someone who “got” me.
I am the woman who made awful decisions in and after college despite just wanting to be “good”, loved, and understood. Who now loves being in church, being with my husband and kids, and being outdoors.
I am the mother who loves blowing raspberries on my kids naked bellies and necks to make them laugh. And goes crazy if I have to listen to them fight. And whose moments of perfect bliss come when the oldest says “I love you Mommy” unsolicited and the little one leans in and gives me those big open-mouth baby kisses.
I am the former video/audio production intern, the former 911 dispatcher, the former public safety officer, and currently-temporarily-retired language arts teacher who loves the “aha” moments in students, teaching Shakespeare, and acting silly while opening young minds to poetry and grammar. Who avoids paperwork and grading homework like a root canal. And who is not sure I’ll ever teach in a traditional classroom again.
I am the woman who is blessed to have a friend of 30-plus years who I’d paid to not talk about me but thankfully don’t have to (LOL). And I'm the woman who wants to be courageous for my Savior, myself, and my daughter. And who longs to be a godly woman and wife.
I am the person who still feels desperately inadequate and unworthy in the sight of God. And still needs to fully, mindfully accept His forgiveness for my sins. I am the woman who still loves reading and music but never seems to find much time for either. Who still longs to learn a better sense of priorities and balance.
I am the person who dreams of grown, happy, healthy, saved children. And heaven. And is grateful for salvation.
I am the baby born in the city Henry Ford built to high school sweethearts whose marriage didn’t last and who remembers peeking out from under squinty-closed eyelashes to “fake” sleeping while waiting for goodnight kisses from my daddy.
I am the child who played curb ball, flashlight tag, and Frisbee. Who loved swimming and riding my bicycle with no hands. Who dreamed of living in a big city, maybe downtown Detroit or New York City? And never thought she would marry or be a mother.
I am the teenager who was internally fearful and seeking approval while externally appearing outgoing and confident. Who wore eyeliner heated with a lighter and iridescent blue eye shadow and loved chocolate milk shakes and Fritos for school lunch and hated having teachers roll their eyes at my ADD self while still getting A’s and B’s. Who found herself in the ER to have rocks, pebbles, and debris plucked from the tops of my feet from an impulsive, botched “Tarzan swing” attempt on a rope over a lake that ended abruptly in the gravel at the shoreline. And then started dating the guy who had carried me a mile back to car. Who dreamed of getting out of the town I grew up in. And knew I would eventually find someone who “got” me.
I am the woman who made awful decisions in and after college despite just wanting to be “good”, loved, and understood. Who now loves being in church, being with my husband and kids, and being outdoors.
I am the mother who loves blowing raspberries on my kids naked bellies and necks to make them laugh. And goes crazy if I have to listen to them fight. And whose moments of perfect bliss come when the oldest says “I love you Mommy” unsolicited and the little one leans in and gives me those big open-mouth baby kisses.
I am the former video/audio production intern, the former 911 dispatcher, the former public safety officer, and currently-temporarily-retired language arts teacher who loves the “aha” moments in students, teaching Shakespeare, and acting silly while opening young minds to poetry and grammar. Who avoids paperwork and grading homework like a root canal. And who is not sure I’ll ever teach in a traditional classroom again.
I am the woman who is blessed to have a friend of 30-plus years who I’d paid to not talk about me but thankfully don’t have to (LOL). And I'm the woman who wants to be courageous for my Savior, myself, and my daughter. And who longs to be a godly woman and wife.
I am the person who still feels desperately inadequate and unworthy in the sight of God. And still needs to fully, mindfully accept His forgiveness for my sins. I am the woman who still loves reading and music but never seems to find much time for either. Who still longs to learn a better sense of priorities and balance.
I am the person who dreams of grown, happy, healthy, saved children. And heaven. And is grateful for salvation.
A sincere request...
I would like to enter Everyday Mommy's recent contest but I have to be nominated (I'm assuming by someone other than myself! LOL). I'm wondering if I could post a few links to archived posts to see if (one) ANY are worthy of her "blog award for writing excellence" and (two) if anyone who reads them feels that they DO meet that criteria, if he/she would consider nominating me. *blush* Is that too much transparent, self-serving behavior for any one day? LOL
This one perhaps for the humor category?
Or, this one for the motherhood category?
Or, lastly, this one for the faith category?
What say you - my bloggy friends and mentors?
This one perhaps for the humor category?
Or, this one for the motherhood category?
Or, lastly, this one for the faith category?
What say you - my bloggy friends and mentors?
Friday, January 19, 2007
Accountibility Through Blogging
Didn't have anything particularly earth-shattering to report, discuss, or share today. But, after getting in the daily blogging habit, I felt like I *should* be preparing something. And, as I surfed through some unknown blogs today searching "for treasure" as directed by Jules at Everyday Mommy, I stumbled onto a theme. Many of us use this as an accountability tool!
Lisa shares her progress and discoveries as a result of her commitment to read the entire Bible this year. Shannon has used it to document her weight loss. We're all putting friendly pressure on Debbie to finish painting her dining room - just so we can see what color "pumpkin butter" is. Tonia at Little Old House On the Hill In The Woods used her blog to journal her "30 Days of Nothing" idea. Katrina blogged recently about her "line in the sand" to not buy any more books 'til March! LOL
My initial thought: how odd that we count on complete strangers that for the most part we'll never see to keep us accountable, committed, and on the straight and narrow. But, on second thought, isn't that what the fellowship of Christ is meant to do? To edify and support each other?
Ephesians 4: 15-16: "...but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head -- Christ -- from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love. "
How cool is that? ;)
Lisa shares her progress and discoveries as a result of her commitment to read the entire Bible this year. Shannon has used it to document her weight loss. We're all putting friendly pressure on Debbie to finish painting her dining room - just so we can see what color "pumpkin butter" is. Tonia at Little Old House On the Hill In The Woods used her blog to journal her "30 Days of Nothing" idea. Katrina blogged recently about her "line in the sand" to not buy any more books 'til March! LOL
My initial thought: how odd that we count on complete strangers that for the most part we'll never see to keep us accountable, committed, and on the straight and narrow. But, on second thought, isn't that what the fellowship of Christ is meant to do? To edify and support each other?
Ephesians 4: 15-16: "...but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head -- Christ -- from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love. "
How cool is that? ;)
Friday, January 12, 2007
Grammar Usage Refresher! LOL
OK, folks...I know this is a pet peeve that for most people is unimportant and bugs only me! LOL But, I figured I'd put my English teacher degree to good use today! LOL For those you are remotely interested, here's a short explanation of some frequently troubling grammar mistakes. Keep in mind I taught middle school so *quick* think like a seventh grader! LOLYOU'RE vs. YOUR
YOUR is a pronoun indicating ownership as in "this is YOUR house." It is not to be used like this: "...in that case your coming too!" The correct version of that sentence might look more like the following paragraph.
YOU'RE is a contraction for "you are" and IS to be used in sentences like "in that case, YOU'RE coming too!" LOL
And, speaking of "too"...
TOO, TWO, or TO?
In general...TOO is used in these circumstances... Like when you have TOO much of something ("too much" means you need the extra o's...get it? LOL) and when you will be doing that TOO (as in more than one activity so more than one "o" again! LOL)
TWO is the easiest...that's the number.
As for TO, it's pretty much for all the other times you hear or see it...like as a preposition ("We are going TO the store.") or as part of a verb/adverb phrase ("TO be or not TO be..." or "I'm going TO need an aspirin!"). All of its uses are listed here if interested.
Finally, I'm remind by using "its" in the last sentence...
ITS vs. IT'S
IT'S is a contraction of "it" and "is" like in the sentence "It's 50 degrees again here today." The use of an apostrophe generally means it is taking place of some "missing" letters for a contraction or it is indicating possession like in "Beth's house" or "Lisa's blog."
ITS is (awkwardly enough after the last explanation) a possessive without an apostrophe! LOL Think of it like this: his, hers, its. They indicate that something belongs to someone - a he, a she, or an it. Get it? LOL
There - that wasn't so painful, was it? No violent flashbacks to junior high English, I hope! LOL So, now you are ready to go "multiply and be fruitful" in your blog writings! *wink*
picture credit: http://www.glarkware.com/securestore/c181845p16737905.2.html
Saturday, December 23, 2006
“Santa endures…(but) lessens meaning of Christmas”
(Let me preface this by a similar disclaimer as Lisa used a few weeks ago…I’m simply thinking honestly aloud, following my heart and my spirit with reference to this topic. I in no way mean to offend or condemn. We have felt convicted in this area but in no means are we judging those that have chosen to do otherwise…)
Found this article interesting, thought provoking, and worrisome all at the same time! LOL I know this issue has already made the rounds of the blogs I frequent (particularly Everyday Mommy’s To Santa or Not to Santa) but I have been the single voice (as far as I know) on the MSN message board I frequent daily who has chosen to not introduce Santa in our home. So, I have been muddling over this even more.
As I wrote at MSN the other day…”OK, I guess I'll be the dissenting opinion. We don't "do" Santa, nor Halloween, nor Easter Bunny, nor Tooth Fairy. Our faith is the reason. I understand history of St. Nicholas but our denomination doesn't emphasize traditional saints. I understand that many of our Christmas traditions are rooted in pagan beliefs but we're now trying to focus on the coming of Jesus not the coming of Santa. And, since we're not allowed to talk religion, I'll drop it there before someone complains. Respectfully, there's plenty of "magic" for kids to discover without manufacturing more and lying to them.”
The other MSN moms (a mix of the spectrum of liberal to conservative, Christian to atheist) felt that Santa did not necessarily equate with commercialism nor take away from any religious significance of the holiday. The poll in this article seems to argue otherwise. According to this source, 47% of the respondents felt that the Santa Claus tradition detracts from the religious significance of the holiday.
Also, I found it interesting that “Santa is important to 60 percent of Catholics, 51 percent of those without a religious affiliation and 47 percent of Protestants, when households both with and without children are surveyed.” Wait! Santa is more important to non-religiously-affiliated folks than to Protestants!? LOL For some reason, I find that funny!
But, what ultimately concerned me were sentiments like…
You go to Santa and move over to Jesus?? Ouch! If a child is capable of understanding and grasping the intangible concept behind Santa – a loving and unseen benefactor - would it not be better time spent laying the foundation for a belief in Jesus in an age-appropriate way?
And, not to sound harsh, I guess in my heart of hearts I don’t feel like the “Santa magic” of being little is worth the moment when my little Vikings look at me devastated, realizing that adults (including their parents, pastors, grandparents, etc.) have been lying to them for years. Isn’t there enough “magic” in the world through the miracles, wonders, and creation of God to sustain that childhood state of grace enough to fight off the invasion of the world’s values for just as long?
While the decision has been made in the household, I’m still searching for peace and strength about it as it has been repeatedly challenged these last few weeks…
Found this article interesting, thought provoking, and worrisome all at the same time! LOL I know this issue has already made the rounds of the blogs I frequent (particularly Everyday Mommy’s To Santa or Not to Santa) but I have been the single voice (as far as I know) on the MSN message board I frequent daily who has chosen to not introduce Santa in our home. So, I have been muddling over this even more.
As I wrote at MSN the other day…”OK, I guess I'll be the dissenting opinion. We don't "do" Santa, nor Halloween, nor Easter Bunny, nor Tooth Fairy. Our faith is the reason. I understand history of St. Nicholas but our denomination doesn't emphasize traditional saints. I understand that many of our Christmas traditions are rooted in pagan beliefs but we're now trying to focus on the coming of Jesus not the coming of Santa. And, since we're not allowed to talk religion, I'll drop it there before someone complains. Respectfully, there's plenty of "magic" for kids to discover without manufacturing more and lying to them.”
The other MSN moms (a mix of the spectrum of liberal to conservative, Christian to atheist) felt that Santa did not necessarily equate with commercialism nor take away from any religious significance of the holiday. The poll in this article seems to argue otherwise. According to this source, 47% of the respondents felt that the Santa Claus tradition detracts from the religious significance of the holiday.
Also, I found it interesting that “Santa is important to 60 percent of Catholics, 51 percent of those without a religious affiliation and 47 percent of Protestants, when households both with and without children are surveyed.” Wait! Santa is more important to non-religiously-affiliated folks than to Protestants!? LOL For some reason, I find that funny!
But, what ultimately concerned me were sentiments like…
Reaching deep into memory, Margaret Klumpp, 88, of Windsor, N.Y., recalled hiding her Santa doubts from her parents... Now she sees Santa through the eyes of five great-grandchildren, the oldest 6, and considers him a complement to the Christian celebration…"When you are a little child you go to Santa and after that you move over to Jesus," she said. "I think it kind of goes together."
You go to Santa and move over to Jesus?? Ouch! If a child is capable of understanding and grasping the intangible concept behind Santa – a loving and unseen benefactor - would it not be better time spent laying the foundation for a belief in Jesus in an age-appropriate way?
And, not to sound harsh, I guess in my heart of hearts I don’t feel like the “Santa magic” of being little is worth the moment when my little Vikings look at me devastated, realizing that adults (including their parents, pastors, grandparents, etc.) have been lying to them for years. Isn’t there enough “magic” in the world through the miracles, wonders, and creation of God to sustain that childhood state of grace enough to fight off the invasion of the world’s values for just as long?
While the decision has been made in the household, I’m still searching for peace and strength about it as it has been repeatedly challenged these last few weeks…
Friday, December 8, 2006
Can't get this out of my head...
This is currently "percolating" for a couple future entries. But, I can't get away from this...even thinking about it in those few seconds of wakefulness as I roll over in bed at night.
Luke 1.38, 46-55
Mary's response to the angel and the Magnificat/Mary's Song
38 Then Mary said, "Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word."
46 And Mary said: "My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. 48 For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. 49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy [is] His name. 50 And His mercy [is] on those who fear Him From generation to generation. 51 He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered [the] proud in the imagination of their hearts. 52 He has put down the mighty from [their] thrones, And exalted [the] lowly. 53 He has filled [the] hungry with good things, And [the] rich He has sent away empty. 54 He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of [His] mercy, 55 As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever."
God, please work this through me, reveal the message for me so I will be able to express just what needs to be said at just the Right time, Your time!
Luke 1.38, 46-55
Mary's response to the angel and the Magnificat/Mary's Song
38 Then Mary said, "Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word."
46 And Mary said: "My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. 48 For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. 49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy [is] His name. 50 And His mercy [is] on those who fear Him From generation to generation. 51 He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered [the] proud in the imagination of their hearts. 52 He has put down the mighty from [their] thrones, And exalted [the] lowly. 53 He has filled [the] hungry with good things, And [the] rich He has sent away empty. 54 He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of [His] mercy, 55 As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever."
God, please work this through me, reveal the message for me so I will be able to express just what needs to be said at just the Right time, Your time!
Thursday, December 7, 2006
Mercy Drop Honor
You will find listed in the right column something labeled "Honored and Humbled" which is exactly how I feel after being dubbed by Kari at Healed Waters with this acknowledgement. Her blog is one of those I use as my example of what I want my blog to be like. So, to be recognized by her is truly flattering.It's her desire to recognize those blogs and their writers she feels "consistently reflect to me a manifestation of just such light, life, joy, peace, and power. Yet how often they go unrecognized because I haven’t time to comment or e-mail. And how often some of them go unrecognized because they write about the “hard” things. Because they don’t seek “readership.” They just write what the Lord has laid on their hearts. Day after day. Week after week.
"These ladies are as “Mercy Drops” to me in what can often be a dark and stormy world - and blogosphere. They are regular sources of refreshment and revival for me."
All she asked for in return was to share this edification with another. So, as I look through my daily link-surfing of blogs, I found someone who has been consistently following her heart and God's direction about keeping the Good things first in her life and setting an example for the rest of us to follow. So this Momma Viking passes on the praise to Anita of "Ask a Lutheran". So, Anita, please copy the above button for your blog or I can email you the original artwork if need be. And, as Kari, all I ask is that you pass it on to someone who equally moves you, your heart, and your faith.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
2006 09 13 My thoughts on Friday the 13th
This morning I did some quickie research on Friday the 13th (ShortyBear beat me to it for the original idea but I’m following up because she sparked my interest.)
For historical reference, I found this explanation on the National Geographic website (not exactly a Christian-friendly site but, to be fair, I WAS looking for background! LOL)
“So how did Friday the 13th become such an unlucky day?
“Dossey, also a folklore historian and author of Holiday Folklore, Phobias and Fun, said fear of Friday the 13th is rooted in ancient, separate bad-luck associations with the number 13 and the day Friday. The two unlucky entities ultimately combined to make one super unlucky day.
“Dossey traces the fear of 13 to a Norse myth about 12 gods having a dinner party at Valhalla, their heaven. In walked the uninvited 13th guest, the mischievous Loki. Once there, Loki arranged for Hoder, the blind god of darkness, to shoot Balder the Beautiful, the god of joy and gladness, with a mistletoe-tipped arrow.
“‘Balder died and the whole Earth got dark. The whole Earth mourned. It was a bad, unlucky day,’ said Dossey. From that moment on, the number 13 has been considered ominous and foreboding.
“There is also a biblical reference to the unlucky number 13. Judas, the apostle who betrayed Jesus, was the 13th guest to the Last Supper.
“Meanwhile, in ancient Rome, witches reportedly gathered in groups of 12. The 13th was believed to be the devil.
“Thomas Fernsler, an associate policy scientist in the Mathematics and Science Education Resource Center at the University of Delaware in Newark, said the number 13 suffers because of its position after 12.
“According to Fernsler, numerologists consider 12 a "complete" number. There are 12 months in a year, 12 signs of the zodiac, 12 gods of Olympus, 12 labors of Hercules, 12 tribes of Israel, and 12 apostles of Jesus.
“In exceeding 12 by 1, Fernsler said 13's association with bad luck ‘has to do with just being a little beyond completeness. The number becomes restless or squirmy’."
(citation: http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2004/02/0212_040212_friday13.html)
So it is apparent that even Christianity is subject to superstitions (big surprise there, huh? LOL). However, I found a Christian woman’s blog where she said that she’s taught her daughter to pronounce it “stu-pid-STISH-shon” And, a previous pastor’s message kept going through my head. This pastor stood up on the Sunday prior to a Friday the 13th and did his message on superstitions and faith and how you can’t have both. He brought a ladder up on the platform and walked under it. He brought a mirror up on the platform and broke it for the entire congregation to see. He had an umbrella and opened it. Challenging all the “taboos” and the “powers that be” to rain down bad luck that was greater than our God! NOT! This sermon had such a powerful effect on Da Hubby and I that we rarely even wish someone "good luck" anymore! LOL It's not about luck, it's about the power of our God!! Yeah!
And, then I found a transcript of another pastor’s message on the web that was similar. ( http://www.fbcbryan.org/components/com_sermons/sermonview.php?id=44 ) Rev. Tim Owens said it’s a matter of a faith that conquers fear. I think that superstitions are all about fears and things out of our control. Particularly fears of the unknown: unknown forces and unknown future events. But, Rev. Owens used Psalm 27 to refute all that fear. (Psalm 27:1 unknown version) "In the face of my fear, I come first of all to rely exclusively upon God, Why? Because He is my light; He is my victory; and He is my stronghold."
Rev. Owens stated, “We see in this psalm, first of all, that faith that conquers fear is a personal faith. It's not something that just hangs out there isolated from you--not something that you hear about, not a second-hand kind of knowledge--but a first-hand knowledge and faith in God…
“When my faith encounters fear, in the face of fear I throw the Lord Almighty and I throw these three things about my God: that He is my light, who dispels darkness; He is my salvation Who rescues me from my fear; and He is my stronghold, my castle, my fortress. David says, "When I throw those three things in the face of fear, then fear fades away.” Now the implication here in verse 1 is that it is the Lord, it is God, and God only--God alone. David had discovered what everybody discovers at one time or another in life: that you cannot put your ultimate trust in anything or anybody else but God and live above the fears of life.”
Additional Scriptures I've been dwelling on today:
Matthew 10.31 (NKJV) "Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
Luke 12.32 (NKJV) "Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
2 Timothy 1.7 (NKJV) For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Hebrews 13.6 (NKJV) So we may boldly say: "The LORD [is] my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?"
Psalm 34.4 (NKJV) I sought the LORD, and He heard me, And delivered me from all my fears.
Psalm 56.4 (NKJV) In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?
As Forrest Gump would say… “I like (that). I like it a lot!” LOL So, let us go forth boldly with NO FEAR!! Praise God for His strength and His faithfulness! And, happy Friday and a wonderful weekend to all!
For historical reference, I found this explanation on the National Geographic website (not exactly a Christian-friendly site but, to be fair, I WAS looking for background! LOL)
“So how did Friday the 13th become such an unlucky day?
“Dossey, also a folklore historian and author of Holiday Folklore, Phobias and Fun, said fear of Friday the 13th is rooted in ancient, separate bad-luck associations with the number 13 and the day Friday. The two unlucky entities ultimately combined to make one super unlucky day.
“Dossey traces the fear of 13 to a Norse myth about 12 gods having a dinner party at Valhalla, their heaven. In walked the uninvited 13th guest, the mischievous Loki. Once there, Loki arranged for Hoder, the blind god of darkness, to shoot Balder the Beautiful, the god of joy and gladness, with a mistletoe-tipped arrow.
“‘Balder died and the whole Earth got dark. The whole Earth mourned. It was a bad, unlucky day,’ said Dossey. From that moment on, the number 13 has been considered ominous and foreboding.
“There is also a biblical reference to the unlucky number 13. Judas, the apostle who betrayed Jesus, was the 13th guest to the Last Supper.
“Meanwhile, in ancient Rome, witches reportedly gathered in groups of 12. The 13th was believed to be the devil.
“Thomas Fernsler, an associate policy scientist in the Mathematics and Science Education Resource Center at the University of Delaware in Newark, said the number 13 suffers because of its position after 12.
“According to Fernsler, numerologists consider 12 a "complete" number. There are 12 months in a year, 12 signs of the zodiac, 12 gods of Olympus, 12 labors of Hercules, 12 tribes of Israel, and 12 apostles of Jesus.
“In exceeding 12 by 1, Fernsler said 13's association with bad luck ‘has to do with just being a little beyond completeness. The number becomes restless or squirmy’."
(citation: http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2004/02/0212_040212_friday13.html)
So it is apparent that even Christianity is subject to superstitions (big surprise there, huh? LOL). However, I found a Christian woman’s blog where she said that she’s taught her daughter to pronounce it “stu-pid-STISH-shon” And, a previous pastor’s message kept going through my head. This pastor stood up on the Sunday prior to a Friday the 13th and did his message on superstitions and faith and how you can’t have both. He brought a ladder up on the platform and walked under it. He brought a mirror up on the platform and broke it for the entire congregation to see. He had an umbrella and opened it. Challenging all the “taboos” and the “powers that be” to rain down bad luck that was greater than our God! NOT! This sermon had such a powerful effect on Da Hubby and I that we rarely even wish someone "good luck" anymore! LOL It's not about luck, it's about the power of our God!! Yeah!
And, then I found a transcript of another pastor’s message on the web that was similar. ( http://www.fbcbryan.org/components/com_sermons/sermonview.php?id=44 ) Rev. Tim Owens said it’s a matter of a faith that conquers fear. I think that superstitions are all about fears and things out of our control. Particularly fears of the unknown: unknown forces and unknown future events. But, Rev. Owens used Psalm 27 to refute all that fear. (Psalm 27:1 unknown version) "In the face of my fear, I come first of all to rely exclusively upon God, Why? Because He is my light; He is my victory; and He is my stronghold."
Rev. Owens stated, “We see in this psalm, first of all, that faith that conquers fear is a personal faith. It's not something that just hangs out there isolated from you--not something that you hear about, not a second-hand kind of knowledge--but a first-hand knowledge and faith in God…
“When my faith encounters fear, in the face of fear I throw the Lord Almighty and I throw these three things about my God: that He is my light, who dispels darkness; He is my salvation Who rescues me from my fear; and He is my stronghold, my castle, my fortress. David says, "When I throw those three things in the face of fear, then fear fades away.” Now the implication here in verse 1 is that it is the Lord, it is God, and God only--God alone. David had discovered what everybody discovers at one time or another in life: that you cannot put your ultimate trust in anything or anybody else but God and live above the fears of life.”
Additional Scriptures I've been dwelling on today:
Matthew 10.31 (NKJV) "Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
Luke 12.32 (NKJV) "Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
2 Timothy 1.7 (NKJV) For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Hebrews 13.6 (NKJV) So we may boldly say: "The LORD [is] my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?"
Psalm 34.4 (NKJV) I sought the LORD, and He heard me, And delivered me from all my fears.
Psalm 56.4 (NKJV) In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?
As Forrest Gump would say… “I like (that). I like it a lot!” LOL So, let us go forth boldly with NO FEAR!! Praise God for His strength and His faithfulness! And, happy Friday and a wonderful weekend to all!
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