Experience

I am 69 years old.  I have experience with pain.  Not all kinds of pain, but I have known knee pain.  I have known pinched nerves.  I have been thrown away by people that I loved.  And I was once on an airplane that almost crashed.  When the flight attendant start to cry, you know it is serious.

I am not a spring chicken.

So last week I was on an airplane.  One row back and on the other side was a mother with two children.  An 8 year old boy and a 13 year old daughter.

After the plane took off, when it was transitioning through the clouds towards it's ultimate flight altitude, we experienced some turbulence.  It wasn't bad, but this was the first flight for the two children.  The thirteen year old daughter responded to the turbulence with fear, shouting and crying out loud.

Everyone around her, including me, tried to reassure her that everything was ok.  She finally calmed down.

The moral of the story is this... the pain that we deal with along the way of life helps us to deal with other pain and more pain.  And it helps us to mentor those who are experiencing pain for the first time.

I have never welcomed pain, but I see now that what I have suffered with along the way has helped me face today's pain with grace and maybe has helped me offer a steadying hand to others who have not travelled this way before.

Offer a steadying hand whenever you are able.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Blessed are the...

We go on a lot of trips.  Things happen on trips.  There are flight delays.  Once someone lost a wedding ring.  Someone else had to change room mates.  There are difficult things that come up.

Things happen.  

And we have a saying.  We stamp it onto the luggage of every trip.  It is a part of our travel logos.

My friend Joni has this hanging on the wall in her office.

I hope you see that this is good advice.  Not just for a trip.  But for life.  For every day life.

Blessed are the flexible for they will not be bent out of shape.

Go with the flow.  Learn to play the hand that you are dealt.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Dolly Parton

As I am sure you know, Dolly Parton passed at the age of 80.  My favorite song of hers is Islands in the Stream, a duet with Kenny Rogers.

My buddy Jeff sent me this about Dolly...

I love this.  Imagine being famous for your hits.  For your success.

And then being celebrated when you die for your generosity.  I love that.

May we all be remembered for our kindness.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

1,000 friends

Someone has 1,000 friends.  Then they did something.  They did something that ruffled feathers to say the least.

People started throwing rocks.  I had a decision to make.  All 1,000 friends had a decision to make.

Here is my decision...

If 990 friends or former friends are throwing rocks, I want to be standing with the ten.  With the ten who are standing with the person... whatever they did.  I would rather have a few rocks bounce off of my forehead than to be throwing rocks.

Those of you who are without sin, cast the first stone.  Someone needs to stand with the broken.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

The Power

The power.  The power of a smile.

When you walk into a room, if no one is smiling, what do you think?  How do you feel?

On the other hand, when you walk into a room or a restaurant and someone greets you with a smile, doesn't that feel good???

Others can bless you with a smile.  They can set a tone.  

And so can we.

When we enter a situation, we can greet it with ambivalence or we can bring a smile to the table.  Try the smile every time.

There is great power in the gift of a smile.  Keep sharing it!

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Impossible

There are some things in life that it is just impossible to make sense of.

Cancer.  The death of a child.  Suicide.  Child-abuse.

Some times I hear a story, or I think of a story that I know, and I have no resolution.  I have nothing.

I wish I had more answers, I wish I had the right thing to say, but some things in life are just impossible to make sense of.

Sometimes we humans just need to hug each other, and pray for the presence of God.  Being with friends helps me to deal with such times.

It's still a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

It's good to care

A quote from the movie "In the Land of Saints and Sinners" with Liam Neeson.  Fearing his impending death, he gives his cat to a young girl to take care of.

He tells her, "it's good to care, even if it hurts.  It keeps you human."

I would add that when we stop caring, we become hardened and mean.  We can become bitter, even psychopathic.

It is indeed good to care, even if it hurts.  It keeps you human.  Being human, being a caring person feels good - it feels right.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

The bridge of forgetfulness

The bridge of forgetfulness is a phrase that is used in some religions to describe the passing over  to the next life.

In my mind, I have always associated it with the experience of allowing a thought or thoughts to leave my brain.  Just let them wash away under the bridge of forgetfulness.

Recently a friend of mine was hurt.  Totally unnecessarily.  I can offer my pat answers... "consider the source."  "put the rejection in perspective." "they were being small and petty."  "her words tell us more about her than it does about us."

But I am not a fan of pat answers.  

What I really hope for my friends who have been hurt is that in a very short time, the pain that they are feeling will wash away under the bridge of forgetfulness.

We have all had hurts.  I hope that you can allow yours to travel downstream, under the bridge and off to another land.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

to fight against judgmental thoughts

In response to a post about judgmental thoughts, my friend Judi offered this... My pastor [not Jeff] once preached a sermon that helped me find a super fast way to turn my mind around when I start to judge someone or something.   I stop right away and say the words "peace" and "humility."   Those two words redirect whatever my mind is on!  

What do I want for life?  Peace and love for others.  What right do I have to judge? Humility!

And I, Jeff add this comment... So the next time you find yourself feeling judgmental, think on the concepts of peace and humility.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Ted Lasso

A few years ago, my buddy Aaron I. tried to get me to watch Ted Lasso.  I couldn't get into it at the time.  But I am loving it now.

In one episode a couple of the characters are discussing the privilege that we Americans know.  He said, "we fell out of the lucky tree and hit every branch on the way down..."  

Recently I was on a cruise.  I thought of how most of the workers on the ship are away from their families for months at a time.  I thought of how they live in very tight conditions and work very long hours.

Sure it is a better job than they would have at home in India or the Philippines, but these are not jobs that most Americans want.

A reminder... if you were born in the United States, you were born rounding 3rd base.

We have so much to be thankful for.

It's a beautiful day in God's world,  be sure to see the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

I used to be so different...

I have posted this before, but it is one of my favorite stories.  It reminds me to really "see" others.  Also as I grow older, I would like for young people to remember that I used to be very different than I am now...

An Old Lady's Poem

What do you see, nurses, what do you see?
What are you thinking when you're looking at me?
A crabby old woman, not very wise,
Uncertain of habit, with faraway eyes?
Who dribbles her food and makes no reply
When you say in a loud voice, "I do wish you'd try!"
Who seems not to notice the things that you do,
And forever is losing a stocking or shoe.....
Who, resisting or not, lets you do as you will,
With bathing and feeding, the long day to fill....
Is that what you're thinking? Is that what you see?
Then open your eyes, nurse; you're not looking at me.

I'll tell you who I am as I sit here so still,
As I do at your bidding, as I eat at your will.
I'm a small child of ten ...with a father and mother,
Brothers and sisters, who love one another.
A young girl of sixteen, with wings on her feet,
Dreaming that soon now a lover she'll meet.
A bride soon at twenty -- my heart gives a leap,
Remembering the vows that I promised to keep.
At twenty-five now, I have young of my own,
Who need me to guide and a secure happy home.
A woman of thirty, my young now grown fast,
Bound to each other with ties that should last.
At forty, my young sons have grown and are gone,
But my man's beside me to see I don't mourn.
At fifty once more, babies play round my knee,
Again we know children, my loved one and me.
Dark days are upon me, my husband is dead;
I look at the future, I shudder with dread.
For my young are all rearing young of their own,
And I think of the years and the love that I've known.

I'm now an old woman ...and nature is cruel;
'Tis jest to make old age look like a fool.
The body, it crumbles, grace and vigor depart,
There is now a stone where I once had a heart.
But inside this old carcass a young girl still dwells,
And now and again my battered heart swells.
I remember the joys, I remember the pain,
And I'm loving and living life over again.
I think of the years ....all too few, gone too fast,
And accept the stark fact that nothing can last.

So open your eyes, nurses, open and see,
...Not a crabby old woman; look closer ...see ME!!

Dear friends... all around us are beautiful people... let us be sure to SEE them.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Get my expectations out of the way

My expectations of you are not fair.

To truly love someone is to see them as they are; 

not through our expectations, memories, fears, or desires.

If I want something from you, if I expect you to behave

in a certain way, that is not love.

I don't begin to love you until I get myself out of the way.

To truly love someone is to see them as they are; 

not through our expectations, memories, fears, or desires.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Movie Quote

I have several favorite movies. I was watching one the other day.

[Email me and I will tell you the name of the movie.]

But in the movie, one soldier is helping another and says,

"Today I put this on your wound - [to heal you]
Tomorrow you help someone when they fall.
We are not meant to be alone"

I love that.  I will help you and you owe me nothing.  Just help someone else.  Pick up another broken person.  We are not meant to live this life alone.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

I don't believe that either

Some people tell me that they don't believe in God or Jesus or both.   I think that often, what they really mean is this - they don't believe in the God or Jesus that many Christians portray. 

Many Christians hold out a God and a Jesus that is angry, judgmental, wears a suit and tie, and is a bit uppity.

I don't believe in that God or Jesus either.

When Christians begin to hold out the God and Jesus that are loving, gracious, and welcoming, I think there will be more believers in this world.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Thumbs

I was washing my hands the other day.  I remembered how my wife taught me after she went to work at Children's Mercy Hospital, that if you don't wash your thumbs too, you aren't washing your hands.

Anyway I was washing my hands the other day because I had picked up some stuff from the parking lot and my hands were gritty.   How delightful it was to turn on the faucet and squirt the soap out and clean my hands.

Then it occurred to me: many people around the world, maybe even most people, do not have the privilege of washing their hands as we do. The lack of water, the lack of clean water and the absence of soap would all keep one from washing their hands as we do.

I paused to thank God for the simple gift of washing my hands. We take way too much for granted. I thank God for the gift of water and soap.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

thoughts on judging others

I think that most of us by nature tend to gravitate towards right vs wrong, good vs bad, right vs left. This ongoing need to divide people into two groups creates a good deal of worry and angst in our lives. Folks that get fixated in the world of judgments end up living a life that is constantly consumed by conflict.

So what if someone voted for the other candidate. Does that make them bad? Does that make them an enemy? So what if someone has a different opinion from you on capital punishment? So what if they root for the other sports team? We have come to define ourselves by being on a certain team instead of being on the human team.

Jesus loved everyone. He welcomed everyone. He embraced Jayhawks, and Gators and Tigers and Seminoles. Labels meant nothing to him. It did not bother him that Matthew was a tax collector or Simon a Zealot. Peter wasn't seen as an uneducated fisherman, he was seen as a person created by God, because Jesus saw him for what he was.

Someone will say to me, "but Jeff, they are wrong!" Maybe so, but that is not mine to judge. Judge not lest ye be judged. Yes they may or may not be going to heaven, but who made me in charge of that? Are you in charge of that? When we set ourselves up as the judge, all of life becomes a tension filled courtroom.

On the other hand, when we begin to release ourselves from the need to judge others- love, peace and joy rise to the top. It is like they were there all the time, we just had to get ourselves out of the way.

Try it. Make a concerted effort to release others from the labels of the past and just see them as someone that God made. What the world needs now is love- still.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

everything is costing more

I was reading an article about how everything is costing more.  Some people are ok.  Others are maxing out credit cards to buy groceries.

Some are driving less because of the high cost of gas.

Personally, we are going out for dinner much less often than we used to.

Why am I writing about this?

If you know someone in need, help them.  My wife just bought $200 worth of school supplies for neighbor kids.

If, in this tightening economy, you are doing well, great!  But keep an eye out for those in need.  There are those all around us that are living paycheck to paycheck.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

$50

Would you loan me $50?  Think about it.  Would you loan me $50???

Answer the question before you read on.  Would you loan me $50?

Next question... if you would loan me $50, would you just give it to me?  Give me $50?

Now some of you are saying "no.  I am not loaning or giving you $50."  But others of you are saying yes.  I would loan Jeff $50.  In fact, I would give Jeff $50.

So here is my point.  If you would give me $50, then why don't we give out $50 bills at Christmas?  I have this idea... inspired by an old friend, a secret Santa friend, where we would just go to the laundromats and give $50 to anyone who was there.

Does this stretch your vision of generosity?  I hope so.  If not, then please call me as I want to hear your ideas.

Lunch next Monday is scheduled for a $20 tip.  Would any of you join me at some laundromats in December for a $50 gift to the needy?  Maybe 2 x $50 or 3 x $50 or more???

I am just dancing with this idea so let me know your thoughts please.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

From my friend Courtney

My friend Courtney sent this quote to me.

“When you understand that you’re really insignificant in the grand scheme of things, then it’s a freedom, in my opinion, to actually be able to do the work that’s necessary as you see it and to contribute in the ways that you see fit”.

Jeff comments... when we get over ourselves.  When we finally come to the point that we know that we are a wisp in the wind, then we can stop fighting to protect ourselves and start living to make a difference in the world...

Those who spend their lives trying to protect themselves are forever on the defense.  Those who have come to understand that they are loved, truly loved, can actually live in a way that projects love to everyone that they come in contact with!!!

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Important people along the way

I was thinking the other day about people who played an important role in my life along the journey.

And I want to start this by saying, if I don't mention you, its ok.  I can't mention everyone.

The first significant person that I remember in my life was Greg Fisher.  He was my first friend.  We lost touch in 1969 when I was 12 and my family moved to California.  Then I had Mark Stanton.  He was my best friend in Jr. High.  Bret Harte Jr High, San Jose, California.  Then in high school, Mark Flammer and Dan Denevue.

These people saved me from my childhood.

I actually got to see Dan a few years ago.  We were on a Napa trip and he came down to join us.

Then in my college years, I have to give a shout out to Mel Torre.

The three years that I laid asphalt, I was totally lost.  I did not know it, but I was.

In seminary, I have to thank one of my professors, Bob Tuttle.  He is still living and I get to have breakfast with him from time to time.

After that, life is a blur... J.T. Coody.  Chuck Vananden.  Bruce Minter. John Evans.  Roger Grout.  Wendel Myers.  

Then we get to Woods Chapel and the number of significant humans accelerate dramatically.  tons and tons of people that shaped me over the 22 years that I was there.

I hope you can name people who shaped your life.  Let us give thanks for them!

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Pass on the past and don't worry about the future.

This quote came in from my friend Bruce.


One day at a time – this is enough. Do not look back and grieve over the past for it is gone; and do not be troubled about the future, for it has not yet come. Live in the present, and make it so beautiful that it will be worth remembering.
                                   Ida Scott Taylor

Jeff comments... today is a gift.  That is why they call it the present.


It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Things not to say

I have posted this before, but we need continued reminders...

We so easily forget. We so easily fall back into patterns that are not healthy.

Things not to say to people who are hurting or at the time of a death... [and I have heard all of these said at one time or another]

He looks better
You look terrible
He is in a better place
Remember you have your children that need you
It was God’s will
God needed another angel [I heard this one last week]
Everything happens for a reason
It must have been his time
How are you going to carry on?
I told him smoking would be the death of him
How are you fixed financially?
Life goes on
You know he is going to hell
Are you taking any medication?
I know how you feel
At least he’s no longer in pain
You are young, you can marry again

Don’t overdo your emotions
Don’t ask, “how did he die?”
Don’t call the person the deceased. They had a name.
Everyone is uncomfortable, don’t act out of your discomfort or nervousness.

On the other hand here are some things that are good to say a the time of death or loss:
I love you
I am sorry
Let me know if I can help you in any way

Keep it short
Keep it quiet
Move on, don’t hover

No pat answers please. They don't work and they don't help. Be a part of the healing by loving them and hugging them.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

presence

Too often we humans want to fix a problem by spurting out some pat answer.

The world does not need our pat answers.  Especially in times of pain... at a funeral, when someone is sick, when there is a loss... our pat answers are not needed and they do more harm than good.

What our friends do need though, is the gift of presence.  Just be there.  Just hug them.  Tell them that you love them.  Stand by them.  Let them lean on you.

You don't need to say anything.  Your presence is more beneficial than any words that you might say.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

People will follow

What ever you do, people are watching.  Others are watching.  If you behave in a selfish or hateful way, people will notice that and the message they get is that "this nasty behavior is ok."

Children especially are watching how we treat others.

If on the other hand, you show great kindness, people will notice that as well.  I don't flash money, unless I am leaving a tip.  Or if I am on a shuttle bus, I will get out $3 for the driver and hold it in plain sight.  I want others to know that this is a good thing to do.

You don't have to announce your kindness, but others around you will see it.  They will be affected. 

Whatever you do, whether selfish or gracious and kind, others are watching.  You are teaching them how to live.

I spent plenty of years being selfish.  Let's double down on our efforts to show kindness.  Others are watching.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Our proper work

Mary Oliver 1935-2019 was an American Poet.  I heard this quote of hers the other day.

"Our endless and proper work is to pay attention."

Jeff comments on the quote... we get so preoccupied with our own stuff.  When we are with others, we need to be present.  To pay attention to them.  When we are alone, we need to pay attention to the world around us.  Pay attention to the trees, the birds, the clouds, the wind.  Everything.

Our endless and proper work is to pay attention.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Nextdoor App

Do you have the Nextdoor App?  Years ago I used it to find handyman work.  These days, I just read what others post.  Unfortunately, the social media platform has been taken over by negative, unhappy, complaining people.

My food was cold.  The server was slow.  They charged 3% because I used a credit card.  The emergency room wait was too long.  On and on and on and on...

I have even tried to inject some hope.  I have invited people to see the good.  When they complain about the grocery stores, I tell them about the grocery stores in Russia that I have visited.  We have so much to be thankful for. 

But some people, evidently, need to complain.

I am deleting the app and unsubscribing from all of the unhappiness.

Life is too short.  I want to spend my time focused on positive things.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Not that important???

Well I do not know what I did.

Evidently I deleted a bunch of emails that were in my inbox.  I went from 50 emails to 5.  I don't know what I did or if I did anything.  Some of the emails were ideas about blog posts... hate to lose those.

I have tried to rescue them, but I can't find them.

Maybe I can live without them.  Maybe I will live without those other 50.

If you are expecting to hear from me and don't, email me again.

The moral of this story is this... 75% of what we think that we have going on, is just nothing.  If you delete it all, life will go on.

Simplify.  Crash your inbox on purpose.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Miserable

Recently I was on a flight to Louisville.  The flight attendant that took care of our section seemed particularly miserable.  She didn't smile.  She would not look at you.

I wondered.  Is she sick?  Is there bad news in her life?  Who knows.

Finally when she was serving drinks I was able to engage her and ask her about her day.  She unloaded a heart full of misery.  Nasty customers, flight delays...

We talked a bit... She smiled.  I think.

I thought about the book "Fish" About the Fish market in Seattle, where the employees are happy.  The culture there is focused on play, being present and making someone's day.

Culture is so important.  Those at the top create it, and those at the top can destroy it.

Each of us have power to create culture.  By how we treat others, by what we allow, by what we celebrate and how we look at people.

What are you contributing to the culture of the world around you???

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

David Burns

David Burns passed away suddenly last week.  

The first Sunday that I walking into the First United Methodist Church in Ft. Pierce, David was there.  He never missed a Sunday.

I hear that he lived in a tent behind the Shell station.  He rode a bicycle.  He was my age.  I don't know if he had a family.  I would like to find out.

The last few years, David had been helping as a church usher.  He helped receive the offering and take the attendance.  I thought it was great that our church welcomed and deployed a marginalized person.  I wish that more churches were good at this.

But if you met David, you would not have felt that he was marginalized.  He always seemed happy.  Happy with himself, happy with you and happy with life.

He will be missed.

We never know which day will be our last.  Live each one to the fullest.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Criticism

I recently heard this said, "don't accept criticism from those from whom you would not accept advice."

I like that quote.  And I will add a couple of thoughts... Caring people can deliver constructive criticism in ways that do not hurt.  I think that it is important to listen to the caring, even correcting thoughts of others.

Sometimes though, when people are critical, it says more about them and where they are at in life than it does about you and what you may be doing.

Sometimes there are unhappy people who just need to barf on someone because they are unhappy.

Let it roll off your back.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Who we value

My friend Bruce sent in this quote...

"When I was young I admired powerful people, as I have grown older, I have come to value kind people."

I love that!!!

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

tears for chocolate

You know that I take chocolate on airplanes to give to the flight attendants.  They are almost always appreciative.  Very appreciative.

Often because of the recognition, as much as the chocolate.  Last week I flew to Minnesota to visit some friends.  On the plane, later in the flight, one of the flight attendants came up to me, knelt in the aisle, and with a couple of tears in her eyes, thanked me again.

I don't write this kind of stuff to pat myself on the back.  I write this stuff as a reminder that humans need care.  They need to know that someone thinks that they matter.

There are plenty of humans out there treating other humans poorly.  Let's do what we can to change that trajectory.

Do a random act of kindness.  Treat every person as if they are awesome.  There is so much insecurity and hurt in this world and we can do so much to end it.

A little kindness goes a long way.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

The one star house guest

I spent the weekend with friends.  They had a dog visiting and they warned me that this dog can be a lot.

Well, after meeting the dog, I decided that I can be a bit too much at times.  

I think that I am funny.  That can be dangerous.  Sometimes I get going, and my jokes are bad.  Sometimes I get going and I am loud.  We joked that I was a one star ★ house guest...

I love life and I love my life, but I think that I am going to calm down for a few weeks.

I'm sorry if I was too much...

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Inherited ideas

Inherited ideas.

These are ideas that we just grew up with.  We didn't take them to ourselves.  We didn't evaluate them.  We just became aware one day that they were a part of what we thought.  

Somewhere along the line, we become aware, self-aware, and understand that we think things are a certain way.  And when we understand that we’re thinking about things a certain way, we have the ability to make changes as to how we think.  

We don’t always do it, but we have that ability to change how we think. Some people live their lives and never become aware of the fact that their inherited ideas maybe right or wrong. 

I personally inherited a tinge of racism. I personally inherited the notion of a very dualistic world- right and wrong- good and bad- up and down- in and out- saved or lost. 

Just because we inherited ideas and they’re what we have believed for a long time does not mean that they are correct and it does not mean they are biblical. Sometimes a re-examining of the way we think is helpful.  Sometimes reading books on the subject that stretch our world view helps us to grow up.

Sometimes, the path away from guilt and shame, the path to living a joyful life and a life of love begins with releasing ourselves from old, unquestioned, interited ideas.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Grief

Grief doesn’t always get better.   Sometimes, it just gets different.  When something happens in our life that hurts, we grieve and it may take many different forms over the years.  For example, we may feel sad, wistful or nostalgic.  The grief doesn’t always go away.  It just changes forms.  Somethings we will carry until the end of the game.  The wound may heal, but the scar remains.  I guess the trick is to learn to look past the scars, focus on other things and still see the good.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Life is messy

Life is messy.  Our culture teaches us to have all the answers.  Our culture teaches us to be right.  Our culture teaches us to figure it out. But this is not always possible. 

Sometimes life cannot be folded, wrapped up, boxed up and tied with a bow.  Sometimes life is messy and learning to live with that ambiguity is something that healthy people do.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

violence in the Bible

I was listening to a podcast about violence in the bible. The author made what I thought was a very good point. When you read scriptures like this:

"Now go, attack the Amalekites and totally destroy all that belongs to them. Do not spare them; put to death men and women, children and infants, cattle and sheep, camels and donkeys."

1 Samuel 15:3


Passages like this tell us more about the people of that time, what they believed, and how they saw God. It doesn’t mean that God is like that, or that he commands violence.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

letting go of hatred

I am watching a new show on Netflix.  It's a western.  I love a good western.  The name of the show is Lawman – Bass Reeves.  Here is a quote...

“It’s hard for a man to put fear and hate behind him.”

Law Man – Bass Reeves

It may be hard, but it can be done. There are people from my past that I have made peace with. It can be done. [you are not one of them]

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Forrest Clay

Forrest Clay is a singer.  In his song, "Does God" verse two,  I heard these lyrics:

"Did God kill his kid?
Did he have to have blood
Before he could forgive?
Maybe we made a god that looks like us."

Something to think about...

Here is the link to the song if you want to listen.

link to song "does God"

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

email signature

My friend Cara ends her emails with this Cherokee Proverb...

"When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life so that when you die, the world cries and you rejoice!"  Cherokee Proverb

I have nothing to add to this, but I thought that it was lovely.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

volunteers

I was talking about volunteer trees the other day.  Someone made fun of me.  They said that I was making it up...

Well, here is a link where I found the following info...

https://biologyinsights.com/what-are-volunteer-trees-and-should-you-remove-them/

"The appearance of an unexpected tree seedling in a yard is a common experience for property owners. These spontaneous seedlings, often referred to as volunteer trees, are self-sown plants that germinate and begin to grow without any human intervention."

So volunteer trees are a real thing and they are pesky.  I am writing about this though because while volunteer trees are annoying, you and me volunteering our time is a very important gift in this life.  Imagine if the next time you were in need, you were surrounded by a group of friends that just popped up and popped in to help.

You and I can be that surprise bit of good news that shows up unexpectedly in the life of a friend.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

why do you believe?

I was listening to a podcast the other day and the author was explaining that people believe things for three reasons:  evidence, logic or community.

1.  evidence... they have seen the evidence

2.  logic - it seems logical to them

3.  community... someone else, a church member, the pastor, a friend, told you that it was logical or that there was evidence for the belief.

Unfortunately, in my mind, the worst reason to believe is also the most common... community... someone else told me, told us, that this is the right way to think.  Most humans never consider the logic of the thing and they usually never see the evidence.  We just drink the kool-aid that our parents and pastors fed us.

It is challenging to ask one's self the hard questions about our/my beliefs.  But it is also ok, more than ok, in fact I think that it is mandatory in a meaningful life, for us to question that which was handed down to us.

So why do you believe what you believe?  Logic, evidence, or community pressure?

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

indiscriminate

Love is indiscriminate.

It doesn't discriminate between people.  It doesn't say that some are worth it and others are not.

Consider the light that emanates from a lamp.  Consider the shade of a tree.  Consider the scent of a rose.  Each of these fall upon all humans, both the good and the bad.

So it is with love.  You don't earn love.  You don't get good enough to receive it.  Love is God's amazing gift and it goes out to all.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

We are frail

Lindsay Graham, Senator from South Carolina passed recently at 71 years of age.  Evidently his aorta tore.

We humans are frail.  We don't think that we are, but we are.  We are frail.  So many things could happen to us.  Cancer, a car wreck, a heart attack.  On and on it goes.

But don't be depressed.  I am not writing this to depress  you.  I am writing this to say, once again, that life is to be appreciated.  Life is to be savored.  Life is to be valued.  Life is to be prized.  Life is to be cherished.

We are frail.  We will not be here for ever.

Be thankful for every day and live it with joy and gratitude.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

love like a banana tree

A poem by John Roedel...

How terribly strange it is
that we keep debating...
who deserves a meal?

While the trees keep giving fruit
to anyone who wanders by.
A full stomach shouldn't depend on luck.

Oh my love,
let us be less like bureaucrats...
and more like banana trees.

                                John Roedel

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -

Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

that doesn't make it bad

Oh.  Something is different.  I don't remember it like that.  I wouldn't do it like that.

But wait.  Just because it is different, doesn't mean that it is bad.  

Look at the thing.  Think about it.  Why did they do it like this?  What do I know, it may just work out.  It may be just fine.  It will probably be fine.  It is not that big of a deal anyway.

I saw it.  It was different.  I had a reaction.  

I need to remember:  just because it is different, doesn't mean that it is bad.  Get over yourself Jeff.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

what we express...

My friend Orpha sent me a note about how she is choosing to live her life.  She said, "In my current stage of life, I find it important to express my love and appreciation."

I absolutely love that.  What stage of life are you in?  Do you find it important to show love and appreciation?  Can't we do that at any stage of life?

It is not that hard to show love and appreciation.  May we all put a little more effort into doing that, regardless of our age.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

those who say...

There is an old saying in the ministry world... you are never someone's pastor until they tell you that you are.  The Bishop cannot make you someone's pastor... only the love in your heart, only your ability to connect with the people will cause them to call you "pastor."

My Dad had a saying.  It is now my saying.  It is found in many of the world's religions... "those who say, don't know.  those who know, don't have to say."

Be yourself.  Keep your identity in check.  Do your job.  Love the people.  Then, in time, they will call you pastor.  And you will be, indeed.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

july 19 - my moms birthday

Paul and Mary Brinkman
Julie and baby Jeff

Today is my mom's birthday.  July 19, 1932.

Had she lived, she would be 94 today.  She died in 1995 at the age of 62.  Mom was married to my Dad when she was 19.  Three years later my sister Julie was born.  Add two years later and I came along.

Mom had her issues for sure.

One of my favorite books, "The four things that matter most" by Ira Byock, suggests that we can learn to remember our loved ones, not as they were, but as we wished them to be.

In other words, instead of grieving what your mother was not, think of her and remember her as the mother that you wished that she had been.

It's an interesting thought.

To celebrate someone for what you thought that they might have... could have been.  I guess it releases them from our resentment and helps us to see the good.

And I am all for that... seeing the good.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

everyone needs to cry

Everyone needs to cry from time to time.  I attended the funeral of David Conchola on Wednesday July 8th.  I cried the entire time.

When the prelude music started, I cried.  When the pastors walked in, I cried.  I cried through the entire thing.

The man sitting next to me probably thought I was a loon.  He might be right.

I loved David Conchola.  But it also seemed to be the case, that I needed a good cry.  I hadn't cried for a long long time.

Sometimes we all need to cry.

Don't be embarrassed to let yourself cry.  It's ok.  It is a part of being a human.  Let your self cry.  You will feel better.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

It was a day

It was a day.  It was a day that wasn't going the way that I wanted it to go.  I had several complaints.  Nothing changed.  I was frustrated.  I was tired.  I wanted things to go my way.

Then I had a thought.  I had a novel thought.  Maybe the problem isn't with the day, maybe the problem is with me.

Maybe I need to change my expectations.  Maybe I need to change my attitude.

I did.

Ok, all good now!!!

Sometimes when we find the problem, we recognize it, and it is me.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

The mills of the Gods

 

My Father would quote this to me.  His version was, "the mills of the Gods grind slowly, but they grind exceedingly fine."

Recently, my 39 year old daughter asked me for the exact words of the quote. 

Evidently, when you have children, you face real life.  Ultimately, when you grow into adulthood, you are forced to face real life.

And as you move along the journey of life, the work of the gods moves slowly, but eventually it comes to you and teaches you things that your parents were trying to.

I used to tell my kids, "listen to me.  learn from me.  let me teach you.  Or, life will.  And kids, life can be a cruel teacher."

The mills of the Gods grind slowly, but they grind exceedingly fine.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

our perspectives

Too often, we think that we are right.  Too often, we think that we have the world figured out.  In my experience, the older we get, the less we know.  Or, the older we get, the more we know that we don't know.  

And that takes me to my granddaughter Bella who is trying to understand the world.  She lives in Chicago but visits Florida from time to time.  In Florida she visit Disney and Cici and Pooh [grandma and grandpa.]

Here she is floating in the pool.  Telling her mom, "look at me, I am relaxing."  

After she got out of the pool, she inquired of children who live in Florida.  She said, how does it work, I guess that there are no schools in Florida, and the kids just go to Disney???"

And I wonder if our thoughts about the world are any closer to reality than hers?  We think we know, but really, how right are we?

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Thoughts on paying attention

Have you misplaced your keys?  No worries.  I know right where they are.  They are right where you put them.

If we paid more attention when we set our phone down, we would remember where it was.

I was thinking the other day about how life races by and we don't pay enough attention to even remember.  For some reason I recalled something that I hadn't thought of in years.  In 9th grade, I was the school badminton champion.  I wonder how I would fare on a pickle ball court today???

How many things in this life have come and gone and we do not remember?  Moments and memories that are just lost to the sands of time?

Friends... life is racing by.  Pay attention to the moment you are in.  Enjoy it.  Savor it.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Can this blog continue?

Not that I am thinking of dying soon, but you never know, do you?

Anyway, when I die, I would like for this blog to continue.  I want it to continue so that readers will have something to read that reminds us all to see the good.  I want readers to have some honest thoughts to interact with.

I have asked several people over the years to take my user name and password so that they could write when I was on vacation.  Dan Horn used to do this for me.  God bless him, I miss him so much.

Any way, you who are reading this, would you be willing to keep this going?  Bruce?  Pat?  Courtney?  Mary?  Woody? Sherri?  Mary?  Arthur? You?

There needs to be a consistent, ongoing voice reminding people that it is not about me.  Reminding people that life is bigger than my perspective.  Words that challenge people to see the good.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

hope

Hope is the feeling we have 

that the feeling we have 

is not permanent.



Mignon McLaughlin


Thanks to my friend Bruce for this quote...

I have said for years that feelings can be fickle.  Thank God, sometimes the feelings that we feel go away.  If you just wait it out, that worry, that hurt, that thing, will usually pass.

My late friend,  Jerry Alyea, when people would ask him about a big purchase, he would say, "lay down until the feeling goes away."

Sometimes, often, usually, feelings change.  Thank God.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

More on trash

Gosh I'm on a roll on trash.  Last week I was on a job in Massachusetts.  

Right outside of our store, someone rolled down the window of their car and threw a bag of McDonalds trash and 3 cups out onto the parking lot.

I had several thoughts... Who does this???  Why do you think that this is acceptable behavior???

I stewed.  I was ... upset.

I went out and picked up their trash and went back to work.

In life, is your behavior, is my behavior making it easier or harder for others?

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

Trash

Trash.  Taking out the trash.

Sometimes I travel for a construction company.  I am a substitute superintendent.  That means, at the job site, I am in charge to see to it that the subcontractors and workers fulfill the expectations of my boss.

I am a middle manager.  A substitute middle manager.

From time to time I work with new people.  Recently I worked with someone who was training to be a superintendent.

One of the things that I watch for is this-  Is taking out the trash below you?  Or do you gladly break down boxes, jump down the dumpster and sweep the floor.  Those three.

People that apply themselves, people who want to work, people who find success in life have got to learn to embrace the "little jobs."

How people handle trash on the job and in life in general says a lot about the prospects of their success.  Roll up your sleeves and get into the middle of the mess.  Let's make it better together.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info

preparing for disappointment

I was in a suburb of Boston last week on a job. It was Sunday morning and I was going to go shopping. The internet said that the Dollar Tree opened at 8 AM. I love the Dollar Tree. I was wondering on the way there if the store could possibly open at 8am on a Sunday.  Seems a bit unusual...

So I kind of got my brain into a place where my expectations were low. When I got to the store, there’s some kind of a problem. They’re not even open today. Since I prepared myself for the disappointed, I wasn’t disturbed.

My favorite store!

Odd signs on the front door.

I wonder what they say???

So I left the dollar tree and went to my next stop: Walmart. I was about a half a mile from the Walmart and a Dollar tree appeared on the side of the road! I pulled into the parking lot and that one was open!!!

Sometimes you’re expectations don’t work out and sometimes in life you’re pleasantly surprised. Sometimes in life we get what we want and sometimes in life we get what we get.

Preparing myself for disappointment, helps me to relax. In life, it won't all go my way. This attitude tends to make the day go better for me.


It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to be the good.

- - - - - - - -
Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
Click here for New Zealand Info

Sherri Swanson and I are also leading a Canada/New England cruise in September of 2027
Here is the link for more information

click here for Canada New England cruise info