Jack’s Winning Words 11/30/07
“One cannot imagine St. Francis of Assisi talking about rights.” (Simone Weil) Simone grew up as an agnostic, but prayed for the first time in her life when she visited the town of Assisi. It was a mystical moment for her. She was a political activist, so I wonder what was going on in her mind with this quote. What changes us? ;-) Jack

FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: St. Francis was more about duty and action. He said, “Preach the Gospel every day—use words if necessary.”

FROM B.S., NEAR ORLANDO: REPLY: What changes us? wow, it's the information in all those nooks and crannies that you mentioned a day or so before. I always hope that the changes are positive. I am going to send this to our friend Leonard for his input. You will like Leonard , Jack. Irene and I have a bushel of respect, admiration and love for Leonard. That is one of the reasons I forward your WW words to him.

FROM MOLINER G.S.: Christ is a pretty good start.

FROM J.S. IN MICHIGAN: Absolutely right on. He knew that the human task is written in Ethics and not rights. Rights have become the cry of the Enlightenment and now everyone has so many rights that they clash not only with other folks rights but sometimes our rights clash with our other rights!!! We need to return to the question of the human...."What ought I to do?"

FROM A.M., WHO JUST RETURNED FROM ASSISI: Assisi is a special place. It reaffirms the kindness and goodness of St. Francis. One is moved to ponder a simpler life.

Jack’s Winning Words 11/29/07
“Who sees the human face correctly; the photographer, the mirror, or the painter?” (Picasso) This is an interesting question to ask family and friends. What do I really look like? There’s a picture of me on the wall, and a painting, too. I look in the mirror every day. Which image is the real me? None of the above? What do you think? ;-) Jack

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: Only one's eye observes a face image correctly, and then only for an instant. A blink, a twitch, a pursing of lips, all bring change to facial contours or features. Images by photography, mirror reflection, and painting are attained through the use of other tools (camera, silvered glass, artist's hand and brush), and each imposes variants from the genuine face being viewed. The camera lens distorts, the mirror delivers a reverse image, and the painter injects his/her personal touch regarding proportion and color. So I believe "none of the above" is the proper answer. Having said that, I would add that a captured image is never permanent anyway, because a person responds to moods, and one's smiling face can quickly change to dour or pouting. Any image is just an instant in a continuum of time.

FROM T.B. IN MICHIGAN: A photo of you will not do you justice. With all your knowledge and insight only knowing you will give the correct picture.

FROM B.G. IN MICHIGAN: This WW reminds me of a line from the U2 song-City of Blinding Lights. It goes like this, "Don't look before you laugh...Look ugly in a photograph." What I like about this lyric is that it reminds us not to look around to see how other people are going to perceive us doing whatever it is we're doing. If you feel like laughing when you're getting your photograph taken, go for it! Who sees the human face correctly? It depends a lot on us, I think.

FROM MOLINER, G.S.: You are what you think others think you are. Hm..................................................

FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Probably only our maker can really know what he intended. I was lucky enough to marry a near-sighted gal. I am not sure who sees faces “correctly” but I am pretty sure the video camera is the most critical. Just ask any Fred Thompson supporter that saw him on CNN last night. When they turned the camera on him, my 12 year old daughter blurted out, “Oh my, who’s the old guy?” My kid’s like Huckabee and Obama. Maybe a positive message is best?

FROM J.S. IN MICHIGAN: We have a family painting done when our kids were young. I actually look pretty good in that one. I want them to tear up all of m photos and just keep that painting. The painter lied a bit....and wouldn't it be nice if that were the truth?

FROM L.H. IN FLORIDA: I think the real image is on the inside and only you know the real person. Just look at the politicians; they create an image that is usually quite different from who and what they are.

FROM J.C. IN HONG KONG: I vote for "all of the above".

FROM K.B. IN MICHIGAN: i just read an interesting little piece of fantasy fiction called Spellbound--that is the question it really addresses

CORRECTION FROM K.B.: The name of the book I referred to yesterday--was GARDEN SPELLS not SPELLBOUND

FROM C.S. IN MICHIGAN: The painter of course;do we ever see large photos over the mantel? no, we see painted portraits! A little bias here of course.

FROM D.P. IN MINNESOTA: Only God.

FROM J.T. IN MINNESOTA: Going to the mailbox one day was an eye-opener. At a Synod Assembly I had my photograph taken for a pictorial directory. When I opened an envelope from the photograph company addressed to me, enclosed was a photograph of some pastor (unknown to me) 30 years younger! Those One-a-Day vitamins work wonders!

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: I think the portrait painter, "El Pintor", the portraits I have seen are remarkable, how ever in some cases I never knew the person b-4 the painting, However, how can a photo be different, except in time sequence, alas, so is the portrait, . I should have kept my mouth shut.

Jack’s Winning Words 11/28/07
“Keep ya head up, oooo child things are gonna get easier; oooo things are gonna get brighter.” (Tupac Shakur) You probably never thought that I’d be quoting a rapper, but I’m a positive thinker, and these words “fit in.” They’re an example of Shakur’s softer side, an example of a deeper rap song. Look at the world around you…Things are gonna get brighter! ;-) Jack

FROM PR J.S. IN MICHIGAN: They will if we can get rid of GW and elect Obama!!!

FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: Tupac has some interesting songs. Some of them I've listened to are laced with religious kind of language, Hail, Mary, and so forth. I've watched several of the videos made of his life and believe his music is one of the voices of our time. In all the mix of his expressing feelings and thoughts, he actually seemed to be trying to sort out an honest relationship with his mother which, as a mother myself, I appreciated. Always had the impression he was trying to be true to what was in him and I wonder if today's Winning Words were inherited from what his mother might have said to him at one time. I'm optimistic, too, and wouldn't be at all surprised if he is in heaven now.

FROM N.G. IN MICHIGAN: Actually he was remixing a song from the 60"s. I don't remember the name, but as I read the quote I started singing along. I think it was from the Associations.
It is true - I didn't expect to see you quote a rapper. You are just too HIP!!!!!

FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: I don’t have time to research this right now, but I think (am sure) this is an old Motown Hit. It goes on, “Someday we’re gonna walk in the ray of a beautiful sun, someday the world will be brighter….”

MORE FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Song by The Five Stair Steps, Motown. Ooh child by the Five Stairsteps song was covered by lots of different people (including Tupac)
Ooh-oo child Things are gonna get easier Ooh-oo child Things'll get brighter Ooh-oo child Things are gonna get easier Ooh-oo child Things'll get brighter Some day, yeah We'll get it together and we'll get it all doneS ome day When your head is much lighter Some day, yeah We'll walk in the rays of a beautiful sun Some day When the world is much brighter Ooh-oo child Things are gonna be easier Ooh-oo child Things'll get be brighter Ooh-oo child Things are gonna be easier Ooh-oo child Things'll get be brighter Some day, yeah We'll get it together and we'll get it all done Some day When your head is much lighter Some day, yeah We'll walk in the rays of a beautiful sun Some day When the world is much brighter Some day, yeah We'll get it together and we'll get it all done Some day When your head is much lighter Some day, yeah We'll walk in the rays of a beautiful sun Some day When the world is much brighter Ooh-oo child Things are gonna get easier Ooh-oo child Things'll get brighter Ooh-oo child Things are gonna get easier Ooh-oo child Things'll get brighter Right now, right now

AND MORE FROM JON: http://gdbd.com/sound2/five_stairsteps_-_ooh_ooh_child_email.htm

FROM D.R. IN MICHIGAN: The line is also an example of history repeating it’s self. That was from a song by The Five Stairsteps in 1970 called “Ooh Child”.

FROM PR B.G. IN MICHIGAN: Brighter, indeed! The people who walked in deep darkness have seen a great light...Things are gonna get brighter during this Advent season.

FROM B.C. IN ILLINOIS: Made me smile in part, because it's not really a Tupac song…. it was released in 1970 by the 5 Stairsteps, a soul group of teens that pre-dated Michael Jackson and the Jackson Five. I'm glad it got redone by Tupac and heard Destiny's Child did a cover too. My I feel old now!

FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Well, today we need some brightness....it's cloudy and overcast. But "gray skies are goingn to clear up..put on a Happy Face!" Going shopping with my daughter and grandson!

FROM B.R. IN MICHIGAN: So you know I'm still alert, check out the original from the 60's by Nina Simone. Tupac must have plagiarized.

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: it is the season of light, no matter the generation of tune. deck them halls and all that jazz!

FROM L.P. IN MOLINE: I was completely surprised to find "Oooohh Child" on a mix CD Gisela put together for me last summer-- the original '60s version. I have no idea how she knew I've loved it since I first heard it as a kid (a really young kid). Good stuff endures.

FROM P.O., JUST BACK FROM ISRAEL: I'm playing catch up with WW and other email. We returned from the Holy Land late Fri. night. It was a remarkable experience --- very 'layered' and it will take me a long time to process all we saw and heard. I hope that you and Tupac are right about things getting brighter. Right now I'm quite despondent about the Israeli occupation of Palestine, how that plays out for the 'everyday folk', and the prospects for any significant change.

Jack’s Winning Words 11/27/07
“It’s niver too late to turn over a new leaf, and if you’ve niver had no church, there’s no telling the good it’ll do you.” (Dolly in Silas Marner by George Eliot) For some reason, I happened to think back to reading this in 9th Grade. The mind saves lots of stuff in nooks and crannies. It’s great to rediscover some of them, isn’t it? ;-) Jack

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: It is just amazing what those nooks and crannies can release back into the active conscousness. My wife chides me for remembering so much of the past. So is the past good?, bad, of value? I guess we'll continue to strive forward. I just wish we could still dance.

FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: Yes, that is fun. It's also really fun to wait and see what going to pop out of your mind...you've got alot of winning words saved up ! I have to go now and look for some new leaves that need turning

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: "Amen" to Dolly, and "Amen" to Jack.

FROM J.T. IN MICHIGAN: Wow! I'm impressed. I know I read Silas Marner back then too, but I don't remember anything about it. I guess I'll have to add it to my list of "rereads".

FROM P.H. IN MINNESOTA: Didn't Eve tell Adam that is was never too late to turn over a new leaf?

FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: One of the classics! I read it too...along with all Shakespeare, Hemingway, Greek and Roman Mythology, O'Hare, Poe and Sherlock Holmes books and stories. Emily Dickenson, Frost, and Edgar Guest are some of my favorites. And, it's niver too late to start anew! God's blessings

Jack’s Winning Words 11/26/07
“The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes of mind.” (William James) His generation was 1847-1910, but his view seems to hold true today. I’ve tried it, and it works for me. Three p’s describe him: psychologist, philosopher and pragmatist. W.J.’s life was truly an interesting one and worth reading about. ;-) Jack

FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: It's truly hard to believe it took humankind to figure out that statement....it would seem that is a n-brainer....However, it doesn't mean all people "get it". You can change your whole life by an attitude change. Let's put on a new attitude today!

FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: It is interesting how many of William James theories seem to be straight from the Bible. Some oddly from the book of James. What is expectancy theory except, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he. [Proverbs 23:7]” In modern psychology (the young science), it seems the Bible is taken for granted and not given attribution most of the time. I used to annoy my professors at Ohio State (94-95 Grad Adult Ed classes) when I could come up with many parallels for Will James’ work to Solomon and other Biblical writers that were not given attribution. I believe Poor Richard aka Ben Franklin covered a lot of this road too, nearly 100 years before, but Franklin does credit Cotton Mather (his Pastor) and the Bible. I will admit, I have not read all of W.J.’s work, perhaps he does give attribution. We as mortals, love to recast God’s revelations as our own. I suppose a healthier response would be , “The Lord is the beginning of all Knowledge” (Solomon, 961 B.C.).

FROM MOLINER, C.F.: That's exactly what some, most, politicians are trying to do to us now.

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: This gent sounds like a real winner. A contributor to society. Thanks Jack, we can hike over to the librbary.

Jack’s Winning Words 11/23/07
“If you don’t make mistakes, you’re not working hard enough on problems…And that’s a big mistake.” (Alexander Humboldt) Let’s see. What problem am I going to work on today? World peace? “Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.” What can I do to make my corner of the world a better place in which to live? ;-) Jack

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: Humboldt inspires us with some cogent words...a great quote. On this day after Thanksgiving, response seems somewhat quiet...maybe everyone is out making their "corner of the world a better place in which to live." I guess I better get going here in my own "corner of the world."

Jack’s Winning Words 11/21/07
“I have held many things in my hands, and I have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God’s hands, that I still possess.” (Luther) On Thanksgiving Day we are reminded to count our blessings. We need to be reminded, too, that these are fragile and can disappear in a moment. So, let’s enjoy today what we have and recognize that we are simply stewards of these blessings. ;-) Jack

FROM D.P. IN MINNESOTA: You answered the question in three short sentences!Happy Thanksgiving!

FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: Counting, counting, still counting................

FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: It has to hard to receive new blessings while holding onto the old blessings. The current ELO song, Hold on Tight to Your Dreams, is used in the new Honda Accord TV ad; I presume they want you to hold on tight to the steering wheel of an Accord (they don’t mention holding on tight to your wallet). I drive a 7 year-old Lincoln TC, but, I favor Toyota, presently, the Scotsman’s Lexus.
The fact is God may have something better in mind for us, holding tightly to what “we” believe is best may not be wise. I remember a story my wife told her Sunday School class, about a young girl that arrives in heaven and St. Peter is showing her around and everything is wonderful. They come to a big door and St. Peter says, you can go anywhere but in there. Well, the human can’t stand that! She begs and begs St. Peter to let her see in the room. Finally St. Peter gives in, saying, “It won’t make you happy.” The young woman opens the door and sees shelf after shelf, row after row, of the most wonderful, plans, ideas, gifts, and situations. The woman says to St. Peter, “What is so terrible about this?” This is the most wonderful room I could ever have imagined! “I know, “ says St. Peter, “It is full of all of the things God wanted to give you if you had only asked—believing.”

HOLD ON TIGHT TO YOUR DREAM
Hold on tight to your dreamHold on tight to your dreamWhen you see your ship go sailingWhen you feel your heart is breakingHold tight to your dream.It's a long time to be goneTime just rolls on and onWhen you need a shoulder to cry onWhen you get so sick of tryingJust hold tight to your dreamCHORUS:When you get so down that you can't get upAnd you want so much but you're all out of luckWhen you're so downhearted and misunderstoodJust over & over & over you could

FROM C.H. ON CAPE COD: Thank you for sharing this one!

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: Unquestionably, my cup runneth over.

FROM MOLINER, L.P.: I am thankful for you & your thought-provoking Winning Words with which I start each day. Happy Thanksgiving!

MORE FROM L.P.: The last few years Dad, my daughter and I have gone to The Cellar in Geneseo. They serve family-style traditional Thanksgiving fare, plus the regular menu. I am having chicken livers-- the best around. And their famous BBQ shrimp cocktail. Plus, it's a nice, relaxing drive after dinner.
They're predicting 1 - 3" snow today. Yippee-- I love winter. Have a Happy and Delicious T-Day!

TO J.C. AND FAMILY IN HONG KONG: > Are you and the fam having turkey tomorrow (today)? What's the > Chinese delicacy? We had some Liberian girls in our Southfield > church. They said that the delicacy from their homeland was a serving of chicken feet.

J.C.'S ANSWER: Yes, the American contingent will have the usual traditional T-Day get-together. As for Chinese delicacies ... if it moves, it can be eaten.
(And that means any part of it!) Fishhead or snake soup, and pigs' and chicken feet are especially great. Oh, and don't forget the birds' nests or the hundred-year old eggs.

FROM S.G. IN TAMPA: Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. Tomorrow the family from Sweden will be here to share our day with us. They are very knowledgeable. They are enjoying the experience of living in our country, and their two girls have adapted so quickly to our educational system. Yet, they maintain their Swedish ties. Actually, there are Swedish organizations in both Tampa and Orlando. Their five year old was in the group that sang for the huge opening of the new IKEA in Orlando recently. She was dressed as Pippi Longstockings.

FROM C.L. IN OHIO: Believe it or not<>

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: i am a steward of many blessings, but i still grieve the ones lost. i lack the ablility or maybe the grace. this is a particularly rich time of blessings lost for me. i am fortunate to have many present blessings to keep the scales balanced. i am a libra. happy thaksgiving to you.

LIBRA: Diplomaitic and urbaneRomantic and charmingEasygoing and sociableIdealistic and peaceable

FROM J.F. IN NOVA SCOTIA: Considering where you grew up and the state in which you now live, I'm sure you're well acquainted with blackflies. I saw this bumpersticker on a car in a parking lot and walked closer to read the fine print. All it said was that it was from the "Maine Blackfly Preservation Society."
Tongue-in-cheek? or a stunning example of commitment to biodiversity? How many environmentalists would sign up? Why should a blackfly be worth any less than the rest of us?

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: hit the nail on the head! have you been influenced by a carpenter?

Jack’s Winning Words 11/20/07
“The best cure for worry, depression, melancholy and brooding is to go deliberately forth and try to lift, with one’s sympathy, the gloom of somebody else.” (Bennett) I read once that sympathy is “your pain in my heart.” There have been several heart-ache stories have been told to me recently. A letter, a card or call of sympathy can mean alot to someone. Do you have a person in mind? ;-) Jack

FROM REV. P.H. IN MINNESOTA: More good words from a wise old man!! Blessings to you and yours in this season of thanksgiving. Your friend in the valley of apples,

FROM K.B. IN MICHIGAN: A meaningful message for me today--Happy Thanksgiving

FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Do you remember Charlie Kinney? Well, Charlie, 40 years old, was playing soccer and died. Charlie and his wife Debbie ran the Luther League. Charlie was a WONDERFUL inspiration to the youth and volunteered a lot in his church in Linden. It's a real shock. By uplifting someone else, you definitely uplift yourself. I also ran into a friend who is struggling with paying bills. Somehow we have to find a way to help her without her knowing.

FROM D.P. IN MINNESOTA: That is the best medicine of all, and I KNOW it works!

Jack’s Winning Words 11/19/07
“A smiling face is half the meal.” (Latvian Proverb) This is a good one for the Thanksgiving holiday. Why not look around you at dinnertime and count the smiles. The one on your face counts, too. Here’s a geography quiz. Put these three in the proper order from north to south: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania. No fair looking at a map. ;-) Jack

FROM MOLINER, G.S.: There're in the right order. What country is on the coast south of Lithuania?
Are you Blue today?

FROM J.D. IN MINNESOTA: AM I RIGHT? LITHUANIA, LATVIA, ESTONIA. SOUTH TO NORTH JOHN

FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: Ouch! Geography was my hands down worst subject.

FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: There is nothing more uncomfortable than sitting across from a crabby or sad person. I personally like to eat happy, as you can tell by looking at me! I think you put the countries in the correct order... Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania north to south. No map used!

FROM C.R. IN MARYLAND: .......try this one: Iceland, Greenland ,Finland, Fairbanks. Happy Thanksgiving

FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: Two observations . . . first, for a sermon I checked the concordance for "smile". . . it doesn't appear in the English Bible! And I checked "laughter" - that only appears a few times, and mostly not in a positive context! Secondly, you have the three nations in the correct order, north to south. A few years I took a tour through Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Russia. A great tour - we finished in St. Petersburg!

SMILES: There are smiles that make us happy,There are smiles that make us blue,There are smiles that steal away the tear drops,As the sunbeams steal away the dew,There are smiles that have a tender meaning,That the eyes of love alone may see,And the smiles that fill my life with sunshineAre the smiles that you give to me.

FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: we are not fed by bread alone...right?

MORE FROM G.G.: from a long time ago in Montreal, Wis. "I have something in my pocket, it belongs across my face. I keep it very close to me , in the most convenient place. I know you'll never guess it, if you guess a long, long while. I'll take it out and put it on. It's a great big Brownie smile!"

Jack’s Winning Words 11/16/07
“It is no secret what God can do. What he’s done for others, he’ll do for you. With arms wide open, he’ll welcome you. It is no secret what God can do.” (Stuart Hamblen) This song is really a story of Stuart’s life and how he was rescued. Don’t give up hope in “hopeless” situations. It is no secret what God can do. ;-) Jack

FROM D.S. IN MICHIGAN: Perfect for today. Thanks!

FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: That's the "secret" of Christianity. It is open revelation....out there for all to see. There is no secret revelation like the Gnostics receive. That is one of the real problems in our church today. I asked (an ELCA seminary professor) how he supported one of his positions from the scriptures and he said that he didn't. He looked "beyond the scriptures." Why then bother to hire a New Testament person in the seminary? We need to hire a "beyond the scriptures" guy....maybe an Extra Sensory Perception person who has a direct pipeline to God that is unavailable to others. When we start dealing in secrets and get away from the historic revelation in Christ, we move into a realm that is non-Christian.

FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: Jack's Winning Songs . . . a new vehicle . . . but the same old pregnant reflection and question!

FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: Thank-you for the reminder. I've been humming that song all day!

FROM M.E. IN MICHIGAN: Is it fair to ask God for anything more than good health and safety for ourselves and loved ones? I rarely do for the risk of losing the thing that matters most, our health. The rest is up to us.

Jack’s Winning Words 11/15/07
“Death is only a larger kind of going abroad.” (Samuel Butler) I hadn’t thought of it in this way before, but it led me to look up some more thoughts on death. Henry Ward Beecher said, as he was dying: “Now comes the mystery.” When Lady Astor awoke briefly on her deathbed and saw her family gather there, she said: “Am I dying, or is this my birthday?” Edison’s last words were: “It’s very beautiful over there.” ;-) Jack

FROM MOLINER, G.S.: The after-life is just as real as death. But sometimes I wonder........

MORE FROM G.S.: An excellent book discusses this: 90 Minutes in Heaven, by Don Piper.
He was clinically dead for 1 1/2 hours. I'm reading his next one, Heaven Is Real.

FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: Jerry's Dad spoke some interesting words right before his death. Kevin, the male nurse was with him, and he imparted to Jerry's Mom and all the family that Doc said something to the effect, "They're telling me to come but I don't know if I should." It sounded like someone "on the other side" was beckoning him to join them.

FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: I love St. Francis' words in his great hymn "All Creatures of our God and King"....."O thou most kind and gentle death, ..." It sees death asa friend that leads us to our Lord. I can't think of heaven as a place. To me it is wherever the Lord is. That's why the kingdom of heaven transcends death....it reigns on both sides of life.

FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: This is so funny to me because we always refer to our mom as being on an "extended cruise" !

FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: I think it depends on your travel agent. In Christ all destinations are possible, with Satan Travel layovers for eternity at Newark/Hades International are the norm.

FROM J.F. IN MICHIGAN: A few years ago, one of the founders of the Farmington Players died of cancer. A couple weeks later, I was taking some soup to her husband and he told me about the day she passed away. Don had traveled the world when he worked for GM in the '50s, '60s, and '70s. Don's wife, Perle, traveled with him occasionally -- especially to Europe, but usually Don had to leave her home when he traveled to places like India, China, and South America. Don told me that as Perle took her last breath, he kissed her good-bye and told himself that this time it was Perle who was taking the trip and he would be joining her sometime in the future. Don passed away a few years later and I immediately thought of his "travel" image. Your quote made me think of it again. The other story is a quick one (reminiscent of the Thomas Edison quote):
My uncle Bernard's last words before his heart stopped were, "Oh, Beulah!" (Beulah was Bernard's wife who had passed away about 2 1/2 years before him.) I know we're not supposed to know too much about the life after this one, but sometimes it's nice to have a little hint of what's to come.

Jack’s Winning Words 11/14/07
“Skepticism, like chastity, should not be relinquished too readily.” (Santayana) I read that George was an adherent of epiphenomenalism. Personally I’d rather read from my favorite skeptic, C.S. Lewis. Skepticism has helped me to deepen my faith. I like what the father said when he brought his son to Jesus for healing. “I believe. Help my unbelief.” Jesus commended him for that. ;-) Jack

FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: Had to look up 'epiphenominalism' and can see that it's going to take more than a quick read!

FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: If skepticism were a crime, I’d be on death row. Through faith, I get a pardon daily.

JON SAID NOT TO POST IT: The worst speculative Skeptic ever I knew, was a much better Man than the best superstitious Devotee & Bigot. --David Hume (Letter to Gilbert Elliot of Minto, March 10, 1751) .... but it's too good to just let it float in cyber space (Jack)

FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: Jack...You piqued my curiousity with that quote today from Mark. I had always associated that with Paul who is a natural skeptic. I checked in Eduord Schweizer's commentary on Mark and he associates "unbelief", however, not with skepticism but with the recognition that it is too difficult for the man to rely simply on God in this situation and that in part he wants also to rely on himself. Complete faith would demand that we simply rely only on God and that the "I" in the equation disappear. It is something, I think, like the I THOU relationship which Buber describes when he talks about the Ultimate Thou. Thus, the unbelief of the man is not a mental skepticism but a spiritual inability to cast away his own independence and rely simply on the Lord. Thanks for sending me up to look that up. I think I learned something today.

RESPONSE TO J.S.: I have this quote in my WWs file. I don't think I'll send it out to the general readership, because they might not appreciate it....the way you might.
"Archaeology is the search for fact, not truth. If it's truth you're looking for, Dr. Tyree's philosophy class is right down the hall." (George Lucas)

FROM D.S. IN CALIFORNIA: Jack, you hit on my favorite religious saying. I do question things, and wonder "why" so often, but then I think, God gave me this brain to think with. What bothers me is that I don't want to feel as if I have to have a miracle occur immediately at my asking. I do need help with my "unbelief", but I don't think I am the only one. I do HOPE that what I believe and am learning IS what "will be", and of course I hope that in some way I am worthy of eternal life with my Savior.

FROM MY SISTER IN ILLINOIS: This reminds me of the song Mrs. Tillberg taught us:
I believe in God the Father,
I believe in God the Son,
I believe in God the Spirit,
One in Three and Three in One.
Chorus: I believe, yes I believe; I believe yes, I believe; I believe yes I believe--help thou Lord mine unbelief.

FROM C.R. IN MARYLAND: yaah

FROM REV. P.H. IN MINNESOTA: wise words from a wise man!! both you and Diz

FROM D.P. IN MINNESOTA: Good one!

FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: I think a skeptic is one who thinks about things. (That's a good word...epiphenomenalism.. I'm still working on it.)

Jack’s Winning Words 11/13/07
“In every generation there has to be some fool who will speak the truth as he sees it.” (Boris Pasternak) Boris was that kind of person. It said that during one of his purges, Stalin crossed out Pasternak’s name and said, “Leave that holy fool alone.” “Holy Fool!” Isn’t that an interesting expression? What do you think it means? Can you see yourself in Boris’s shoes? ;-) Jack

FROM C.R. IN MARYLAND: ......I like that one.

FROM MOLINER, C.F.: That's Politics.

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: if the jester hat fits...

FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: I read a little about Pasternak this morning. Perhaps Ron Paul is the modern day Boris Pasternak. Paul’s run for president is treated by the elite establishment with great disdain if it is reported on at all. We elect politicians, not statesmen, we want someone to lie to us—because the truth is far too potent to seriously consider. When I consider the 14 or 15 rent seekers running for the presidency—it is Ron Paul that is considered by many to be the lone fool or the “Holy Fool” speaking the truth. Though the poem below was written long ago (update to men and women)—these are the words and deeds I wish presidential candidates, the 535 lords and ladies, the executive branch, and the judiciary would embrace.
God, give us men!
GOD, give us men! A time like this demands
Strong minds, great hearts, true faith and ready hands;
Men whom the lust of office does not kill;
Men whom the spoils of office cannot buy;
Men who possess opinions and a will;
Men who have honor; men who will not lie;
Men who can stand before a demagogue
And damn his treacherous flatteries without winking!
Tall men, sun-crowned, who live above the fog
In public duty, and in private thinking;
For while the rabble, with their thumb-worn creeds,
Their large professions and their little deeds,
Mingle in selfish strife, lo! Freedom weeps,
Wrong rules the land and waiting Justice sleeps.
Josiah Gilbert Holland

FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: "Fools for Jesus" what could be better? Us Christians should all be "Holy Fools" willing to speak up in Jesus' name...especially in this world of ours, as Boris did in his world, where Stalin "purged" so many!

FROM D.S. IN CALIFORNIA: Let's see, Boris Pasternak ---- Jack Freed. Hmmmmmm

FROM E.A. IN MICHIGAN: A very lovely poem that does apply today. But you must remember, these are the same types of integrity and hoped for ethics in all of his (Holland's) books,. Great to want but seldom gotten.

FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: Yes, I can.

Jack’s Winning Words 11/12/07 (Veterans’ Day)
“We often take for granted the very people who most deserve our gratitude.” (Cynthia Ozick) Today we remember and honor those in the past and in the present who have been members of the armed forces. Are you a veteran, or has someone in your family been a military person? There are others, too, who deserve our gratitude. I think of the parents, teachers and friends who have influenced us. ;-) Jack

FROM C.S. IN WISCONSIN: If you look at the statue of the flag being raised on Iwo Jima you'll see 13 hands on the pole. Why 13 when there were 6 soldiers. The man who reated the statue simply said that the 13th hand was the hand of God.

THE INSCRIPTION ON THE STATUE READS: "Uncommon Valor was a Common Virtue."

FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Old Geezers remember the Depression, World War II, Pearl Harbor, Guadalcanal, Normandy and Hitler. They remember the Atomic Age, the Korean War 1950-55, The Cold War, the jet age and the moon landing the 50 plus Peacekeeping Missions from 1945 to 2005 the Jet Age and the Moon Landing, not to mention Vietnam. "Geezers" are easy to spot: At sporting events, during the playing of the Star Spangled BANNER. Old Geezers remove their caps and stand at attention and sing without embarrassment. They know the words and believe in them.

MORE FROM J.L.: A veteran - whether active duty, retired, or national guard or reserve - is someone who, at one point in his, or her, life, wrote a blank check made payable to "The United States of America," for an amount of "up to and including my life." That is honor, and there are way too many people in this country who no longer understand it. Author unknown.

FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: Today (yesterday) is Armistice Day and I remember the bloody conflict that is now called World War I. My sister Jeanne and I used to face East at 11 am on the 11th in honor of all those who fought to bring about a better world (until Wilson and Lodge screwed things up....along with Clemenceau and Lloyd George). My Dad was in the Army in that war. It seems that all of our holidays have become Veterans Day.....Decoration Day, July 4th, Labor Day, etc. have all turned into days to remember veterans. I like that you wrote that we ought to remember others as well....parents, teachers, friends.....folks who fought for peace in our world. I'll remember you today!

FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: I started to write, “…said the politician to the taxpayer.” Then I read on and saw the quote had to do with Veterans Day. My dad, who died 40 years ago was in WWII. Many of the best people I know are serving or have served. While I disagree with most overseas wars, I do want to honor the men who are sent to fight them.

FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: A very appropriate word for this day - I just secured ten days ago a list of my grade school teachers - reading their names, I recall how helpful they were and how much I owe them. They taught during the depression - when teachers were dismissed if they married! How these ladies put their teaching ahead of their personal lives!

JACK'S RESPONSE: Yep; that's the way it was in my day, too. My favorite teacher, Miss Ruth Erickson, taught 6th Grade. She and her boyfriend took our whole class on a bike excursion. Since I didn't own a bike, I had to borrow one. It was so much fun. She married shortly after I went to Junior High. She is now deceased, but I had a chance to visit her after she retired (she went back to teaching when the rules changed), and we had a great time "remembering."

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: and you. thanks and love

MORE FROM M.L.: i believe that people come into each other's lives for a reason. yours was to help keep us believing in tomorrow when each day was a challenge. it has been a great gift to reunite. it has simply reinforced my belief.

Jack’s Winning Words 11/9/07
“There is no education like adversity.” (Disraeli) Old Ben was right about adversity. However, during adversity, these song lyrics often come to mind: “Into each life some rain must fall, but too much is falling in mine.” As I look back, I do see that some hard times have been good times…at least in retrospect.. There are many ways to get an education, if one pays attention. Right? ;-) Jack

FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: While I agree completely with this in theory --- I still could have passed on a couple of them

FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: I read a bio of Disraeli. He was a fascinating individual. So was his opponent, Gladstone. Disraeli, however, would have been more appealing to you.

FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: When bad things happen to us and people seem to be against us for some reason, if we could believe that we are doing something according to God's Will for this world that He created it would all make our educations in life, the adversities we face more palatable.

FROM J.M. IN MICHIGAN: The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have.

THE RAINY DAY BY LONGFELLOW:
The day is cold, and dark, and dreary It rains, and the wind is never weary; The vine still clings to the mouldering wall, But at every gust the dead leaves fall, And the day is dark and dreary.
My life is cold, and dark, and dreary; It rains, and the wind is never weary; My thoughts still cling to the mouldering Past, But the hopes of youth fall thick in the blast, And the days are dark and dreary.
Be still, sad heart! and cease repining; Behind the clouds is the sun still shining; Thy fate is the common fate of all, Into each life some rain must fall, Some days must be dark and dreary.

FROM D.S. IN CALIFORNIA: A friend of ours recently moved (with her husband) to be close to their children near Atlanta. He has been fighting cancer for 15 or more years. Near death so many times and coming back. Now they're daughter just lost her baby after 3 months of pregnancy. Her husband can hardly get out of bed they have him so doped up due to pain.
Today's Winning Words just seemed to come at the right time

FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: Reminds me if the University of Hard Knocks!

Jack’s Winning Words 11/8/07
“Do not bark against the bad, but chant the beauty of the good.” (Emerson) There are plenty of barkers out there in the world. We need more folks who are willing to point out what is good, and talk about it. ;-) Jack

FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Yes, like my mom used to say..."If you can't say something nice, don't say it." I'm sure she didn't coin the saying, but she sure used it a lot!

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: as pollyanna would say, "that's a scalingly wonderful idea!"

FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: Why not "both/and" rather than "either/or"?

Jack’s Winning Words 11/7/07
“Life is like playing a violin solo in public and learning the instrument as one goes along.” (Samuel Butler) I smiled as I imagined playing the violin in public. Then I remembered the point of the quote, and I smiled again. Yes, we learn as we move along through the years, don’t we? I recall reading of someone with this on a lapel button:: PBPGINFWMY. What was it supposed to mean? Please be patient; God is not finished with me yet.. ;-) Jack

FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: My favorite Jr. Choir anthem that Mary Lou's kids used to sing was "Kids Under Construction"....if we remain "kids", we can always be under construction. The alterntive is "destruction."

FROM MOLINER, G.S.: I can relate. I just started my 8th year playing the piano.

FROM MOLINER, LFP: I actually cringed as I read that quote... I'm reading Joel Osteen's new book. He, as you, reminds us that we all are God's work in process, throughout our lives. Many thanks for your daily words of wisdom. They're a good way to start the day!

FROM MOLINER, C.F.: I didn't even like playing the violin in private.

FROM D.S. IN CALIFORNIA: I love that label "PBPGINFWMY". I think of that often as to "why" I am still "here".

FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: I am going to send this to Lori because she re-learned the violin, which she hadn't played since High School for the 60th Anniversary! Bob Bomier played the drums with us, and a bunch of members volunteered to play so we had an orchestra! What a wonderful gift! I remember that saying well! It brings a big smile to me also!

Jack’s Winning Words 11/6/07
“Good friends are like angels. You don’t have to see them to know they are there.” (Irish Saying) Angel is from the Greek word, angelos, meaning a messenger from God. Isn’t it great to have people like that in our lives? With the computer, I don’t have to see you to know that you are there. ;-) Jack

FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: Angel Jack, thanks for your daily visit!

FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: God blesses us with wonderful friends who uplifted us, sustain us, cry with us, laugh with us and love us. What a better gift??? Thanks for being there with your "Words" each day. I look so forward to them...you are a good friend!

FROM D.S. IN MICHIGAN: I am here. ;o) I am lucky to have lots of angels in my life including you.

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: we call them earth angels. they walk among us-some we recognize as friends-some are just there watching and waiting.

FROM B.G. IN MICHIGAN: thanks for being an angel to me...wherever you are!!

Jack’s Winning Words 11/5/07
“Every time someone stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope.” (RFK) We have an agenda before us today…to send out ripples.. ;-) Jack

FROM MOLINER, C.F.: I wonder why JFK used the word "Tiny". Seems to me that the deed has great impact on the one receiving it.

FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Isn't that true? We never know the little ripples which turn into waves just by one little hello, handshake, or smile. We are having a Clothing Give-away tomorrow during Voting at church. It will be a first and I'm sure a big success. God bless volunteers and their ripples!

FROM J.T. IN MINNESOTA: We all lost a great leader when he was killed. Always looking for the next world leader to encourage us all. Thanks for the ww. I look forward to them and very frequently send them on to family and friends.

Jack’s Winning Words 11/2/07
“There’s nothing that gives more assurance than a mask.” (Colette) I suppose you saw a wide range of false faces (as we used to call them) when the children came to your door on Halloween. Most of us put on a mask every day. For what reason? Today mine is a smiley face, because I’m back at the computer sending out “my words.” I spent a few days in Fort Myers, FL, watching son David play hardball in the Roy Hobbs’ World Series for those, 35 and older. ;-) Jack

FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Being genuine and confident gives more assurance. A mask can slip or fall off. I paraphrase William Matthew’s (1875) in Getting On In the World, “…some must be careful the wolves skin does not slip and reveal the ass beneath.”

MORE FROM JON: I remember thinking how unusual the Matthews quote was in a Victorian Era book.
Your mask quote could also apply to the presidential debates (both sides) 14 candidates trying to disguise who they really are, the wolves skin will eventually slip (usually after the election). I didn’t want to muddy up my response with political angst.

FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: My mask today was one of a grateful, happy person because I have a new job and I like it!

FROM M.U. IN MICHIGAN: (Commenting on Sanibel, which is near Fort Myers) You have heard of the Sanibel Stoop! I am proud to say that I personally know the gentleman that wrote the poem the Sanibel Stoop, Hal Austin. He had a condo in our condominium complex in Sanibel Arms West. Ours was on the gulf...his was next to the pool. We enjoyed ours every summer and I had about 40 penpals that I wrote all year long and arranged to have all of the families there every summer at the same time. I loved shelling and stooped over all day long every day looking for the most perfect, small specimens...I can name them all. I still make shell mirrors and mosaic shell mirrors. I can't wait to replenish my inventory of bright orange and yellow horse conchs! I can't wait to take my children there!

FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Believe it or not, I'm one of those people who get freaked out at masks. And let me tell you, there were some REALLY ugly ones this Halloween. I like to look into people's eye when I talk to them and not some scary mask. But, they definitely do think people put on their masks each day...well, maybe not everyday, but I know I do some days!

FROM MOLINER, C.F.: When I see a mask, and I don't mean kid stuff, I wander what the person behind it is hiding.

FROM CLASSMATE, A.W.: Interestingly, the American Masters (PBS) special on Carol Burnette, indicated that she was at her best when portraying someone else or one of her many roles on her show. Then she was "wearing a mask".