Jack’s Winning Words 12/24/07
“A Merry Christmas to everybody! A Happy New Year to all the world.” (Charles Dickens) I hope that you have enjoyed receiving the Winning Words for this year as much as I have enjoyed sending them. The 2008 Version will begin, Jan. 2nd. Dickens’ greeting is my greeting to you, and I’ll add: God bless you, real good. ;-) Jack
FROM C.S. IN WISCONSIN: Thank you for another wonderful year of positive thinking! Can't wait to see what 2008 will bring!
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: We all win from Winning Words.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Friday, December 21, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/21/07
“Blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without forgetting.” This is a good one to think about during this season when gifts are exchanged. Keep a stack of note cards handy, so you can write those Thank You’s right away. I wrote my first one today. How are you doing? ;-) Jack
“Blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without forgetting.” This is a good one to think about during this season when gifts are exchanged. Keep a stack of note cards handy, so you can write those Thank You’s right away. I wrote my first one today. How are you doing? ;-) Jack
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: I truly laughed today when I got this! God does have a great sense of humor and timing. I got my husband some gifts for Christmas two months ago, and forgot where I hid them. I have been searching and searching this house! So I did give without remembering and he may have to be thankkful without getting! I'm still laughing....and searching! And, when I find them, he will be thankful, as will I!
MORE FROM J.L.: It's kind of a joke because each year the kids get something after Christmas I forgot to give them. Here's a little something I am putting in the newsletter next month....
"I write down everything I want to remember. That way, instead of spending a lot of time trying to remember what it is I wrote down, I spend the time looking for the paper I wrote it down on." Beryl Pfizer
FROM D.S. IN CALIFORNIA: This is a very poignant one for me, Jack. I really enjoy doing things for other people, but in the same instance, I like to be recognized (most of the time) for it....at least with a sincere "Thank you". Does that same something bad about me, and if so, how do I overcome it?
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: Hi,not too good, but tomorrow I will try again.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/20/07
“Saying goodbye doesn’t mean anything. It’s the time we spent together that matters.” (Trey Parker and Matt Stone) To me the key words here are: “the time we spent together.” The time may be long or short, but the memories give value. What a great gift to be able to recall! Thanks for your friendship. ;-) Jack
“Saying goodbye doesn’t mean anything. It’s the time we spent together that matters.” (Trey Parker and Matt Stone) To me the key words here are: “the time we spent together.” The time may be long or short, but the memories give value. What a great gift to be able to recall! Thanks for your friendship. ;-) Jack
FROM MOLINER. J.T.: Yes, a great gift. I had 44 years with Elaine and 6 months with Judy. Although many years difference the time spent was special.
FROM MOLINER, L.P.: This is a special quote for me today. My daughter's 104-year-old great-grandmother is celebrating her birthday today in the hospital. She's a totally cool lady, and despite my divorce from her grandson, I adore and admire her. We talked yesterday, and, though she is dying, she didn't say "goodbye," she asked me to come see her "tomorrow." I am glad we have good memories of each other...
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: The time we spent together before distance set us apart, always provided something memorable to me. The hours you shared with my family were special and we still reflect on those experiences. I'm grateful that technology has enabled us to continue our relationship via Winning Words.
FROM BBC: Are you a fan? Have you read South Park and Philosophy or the Bible According to the Simpsons?
FROM PLD IN MICHIGAN: beautifully put!
FROM MOLINER, J.R.: Have enjoyed your winning words each day---in regard to todays. My daughter and I were on a tour in the Alps and as we entered our bus one day the tour guide handed us a peice of candy. In the wrapper was a small peice of paper that read " I can`t remember what we did but we were together." We had a great time.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Having the time to say goodbye means an awful lot too and very precious, but memories are for always. That's why I spend so much time on my scrapbooks. My family, for many generations, has taken photos and were smart enough to label them. And those special memories, the ones you can't possibly put down on paper, or in an album, are the most precious.
FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: You've been making us all see our neighbors, even Plato and many dead people a lot better than we did before you started your e-mailing ministry. I hope tomorrow and the next day and the next and the next one after that we continue to get your Winning Words. I hope you're not saying goodby to us or something.
FROM B.G. IN MICHIGAN: I have been ruminating a lot about the death of Dan Fogelberg this week. Although the only time we "spent time together" were the three concerts of his that I attended, I felt a connection with him through his music. I'm glad I was able to spend some time with him. May he rest in peace.
FROM L.E. IN MICHIGAN: So true, so true. My husband died in July and we didn't get a chance to say goodbye, but we spent almost 50 years married and traveled all over the world and did what we wanted to do. I read this on 12-22 during a very difficult time. Thank You.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/19/07
“I think you’re not human unless you have doubts and fears.” (Coach K) Some people do a better job of hiding them, but look under the skin, and there they are. One of my favorite carols is, O Little Town of Bethlehem…Especially the verse that goes, “The hopes and fears of all the years are met in Thee.” Yes, there is a way to deal with those doubts and fears that Mike mentions. ;-) Jack
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: I believe doubts and fears go beyond humans, to touch the animal kingdom as well. Have you ever seen a dog cower in the presence of a cruel owner...or a deer stop nibbling, to perk its ears and pivot its head...or a robin stop pursuing a worm momentarily, to check for a stealthy cat? We all are vulnerable. Humans however have a source of solace and hope in our Lord ("He restoreth my soul"), but what relief is there for lower forms of life?
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Absolutely. My biggest fear is ill health. That's my biggest prayer too...good health for those around me and myself. The rest I can handle...I think....I mean, I don't want to doubt I can do it....
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: Wow, we have been singing this song"con much gusto" for many years, and now we disect it. It is interesting to think about one's fears. I just wonder how far we would have progressed from poverty to a middle cclass status if we had concentrated on our fears, instead of doing as we did, and as uncl John said "Work harder, work faster, the team needs to be fed and watered, we didn"t", so it is true, we didn't concentrate on our fears. ?? What if we had?
“I think you’re not human unless you have doubts and fears.” (Coach K) Some people do a better job of hiding them, but look under the skin, and there they are. One of my favorite carols is, O Little Town of Bethlehem…Especially the verse that goes, “The hopes and fears of all the years are met in Thee.” Yes, there is a way to deal with those doubts and fears that Mike mentions. ;-) Jack
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: I believe doubts and fears go beyond humans, to touch the animal kingdom as well. Have you ever seen a dog cower in the presence of a cruel owner...or a deer stop nibbling, to perk its ears and pivot its head...or a robin stop pursuing a worm momentarily, to check for a stealthy cat? We all are vulnerable. Humans however have a source of solace and hope in our Lord ("He restoreth my soul"), but what relief is there for lower forms of life?
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Absolutely. My biggest fear is ill health. That's my biggest prayer too...good health for those around me and myself. The rest I can handle...I think....I mean, I don't want to doubt I can do it....
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: Wow, we have been singing this song"con much gusto" for many years, and now we disect it. It is interesting to think about one's fears. I just wonder how far we would have progressed from poverty to a middle cclass status if we had concentrated on our fears, instead of doing as we did, and as uncl John said "Work harder, work faster, the team needs to be fed and watered, we didn"t", so it is true, we didn't concentrate on our fears. ?? What if we had?
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/18/07
“Tradition is a guide, not a jailer.” (W. Somerset Maugham) Don’t be afraid to try something new. When a new translation of the Lord’s Prayer came out, my mother encouraged me to “get with it” and use it in the worship service. Are you one who hangs on to the old, like Tevje in Fiddler on the Roof? Tradition! ;-) Jack
“Tradition is a guide, not a jailer.” (W. Somerset Maugham) Don’t be afraid to try something new. When a new translation of the Lord’s Prayer came out, my mother encouraged me to “get with it” and use it in the worship service. Are you one who hangs on to the old, like Tevje in Fiddler on the Roof? Tradition! ;-) Jack
FROM EMT SINGS: I liked that! Should be hung in workplaces.....But, of course, my Christmas traditions are sacred!
FROM L.H. IN MARCO: Usually, Tradition stands the test of time and a lot of the new things are just fads, and many of them not good ie abortion, divorce (what happened to for better or worse), honor thy father and mother (now people want the goverment (tax payer) to carry the full load, etc. I am not ashamed to say I am a tradtionalist.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Some traditions I love, and others beg to be replaced. Today, one was replaced. My littlest grandson, (3), has had a terrible cough but no other symtoms. My daughter and her husband found out he is allergic to pine trees. So the annual cutting of the Christmas trees will be replaced by another annual outing instead. (He also has a sever allergy to peanuts.) We loved that tradition, but will happliy replace something else.
FROM SPARTAN JEFF IN MICHIGAN: I'm a little of each!
FROM BBC: Yeah, I'm all about the "red" book. And "save us from the time of trial" is no where near "lead us not into temptation"….. life is about trials; I've never been able to pray that line with the rest. It doesn't seem right to ask that of the heavenly Father. Smile!
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: I don't think so --- maybe some day. I'm never sure whether that's a personality trait or an age thing. Perhaps a personality trait that intensifies with age?
FROM REV J.S. IN MICHIGAN: Some forget that it can be a jailer and are indeed jailed by it. Others forget that it can be a guide and so lose the wisdom of the ages for the immediacy of now.
FROM M.N. IN MINNESOTA: You better believe it! I “pray” the old version—I “read” the new one. If we are supposed to be “ecumenical” and inviting to visitors, why can’t we pray the Lord’s Prayer the same way as other denominations???
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: My Ma used to say"ain't that the truth Mabel", thank the Lord for Mother's when they encourage you to explore, to try something new and different. I must admit however, when I went to the 9:30am Young People's Special service, I went back to the 11:00 0'clock traditional service. Maybe this Sunday, I'll go back and try it one more time.-I seemed like a combo of the Holly Rollers and a musical gymnastic class, very different.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/17/07
“On earth there is no heaven, but there are pieces of it.” (Jules Renard) If one is looking for those pieces, where do you suggest that they go? On the other hand, there may be those who think that this statement is theologically incorrect. Let them go into another room to continue their discussion. ;-) Jack
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: "Heaven" is what each person considers it to be. The pieces of it can be found wherever we go, sometimes large pieces and sometimes small. As the poetic line from my childhood stated, "The world is so full of a number of things, I'm sure we should all be as happy as kings."
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: What did Luther say Christians were? Little Christs. Have you been a "little Christ" today?
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Oh my gosh....just look at a newborn baby and his mom and dad! There is Heaven on earth....or a little child's first snowfall! Or a woman's face when she gets her engagement ring...there are little bits of heaven whenever someone helps a stranger....I could go on and on.....blessings on this beautiful snowy day!
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: I suggest they simply pay attention --- those pieces are everywhere!
FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: I'll be staying in the " heaven on earth" room. It's all around us, although my most recent siting was at the children's Christmas pageant at church. Angels, wisemen, shepherds, Holy family, etc. singing "Prepare ye the way of the Lord" and "Away in the Manger".......heavenly.
FROM REV J.S. IN MICHIGAN: "The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!"
FROM EMT SINGS: I think my Mother would disagree with that. She claims that if there is a Heaven on earth she is in it. I agree with her as I think possibly this is what Heaven is like: No decisions, no worries and surrounded with love. So I suppose it is not Heaven but is like it. Sounds good to me!
“On earth there is no heaven, but there are pieces of it.” (Jules Renard) If one is looking for those pieces, where do you suggest that they go? On the other hand, there may be those who think that this statement is theologically incorrect. Let them go into another room to continue their discussion. ;-) Jack
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: "Heaven" is what each person considers it to be. The pieces of it can be found wherever we go, sometimes large pieces and sometimes small. As the poetic line from my childhood stated, "The world is so full of a number of things, I'm sure we should all be as happy as kings."
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: What did Luther say Christians were? Little Christs. Have you been a "little Christ" today?
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Oh my gosh....just look at a newborn baby and his mom and dad! There is Heaven on earth....or a little child's first snowfall! Or a woman's face when she gets her engagement ring...there are little bits of heaven whenever someone helps a stranger....I could go on and on.....blessings on this beautiful snowy day!
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: I suggest they simply pay attention --- those pieces are everywhere!
FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: I'll be staying in the " heaven on earth" room. It's all around us, although my most recent siting was at the children's Christmas pageant at church. Angels, wisemen, shepherds, Holy family, etc. singing "Prepare ye the way of the Lord" and "Away in the Manger".......heavenly.
FROM REV J.S. IN MICHIGAN: "The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!"
FROM EMT SINGS: I think my Mother would disagree with that. She claims that if there is a Heaven on earth she is in it. I agree with her as I think possibly this is what Heaven is like: No decisions, no worries and surrounded with love. So I suppose it is not Heaven but is like it. Sounds good to me!
MORE FROM EMT SINGS: Yes, I like it. I also very often think "My soul is restless until it rests with Thee" Can't remember who said that, but it often describes what I am feeling!
RESPONSE FROM JACK: St. Augustine said it.
FROM D.P. IN MINNESOTA: Go and stay with the Homeless for a few days and you'll find heaven when you go back home !
FROM M.N. IN MINNESOTA: I think there are lots of pieces of heaven on earth. Last Sunday the little kids sang in church—that is a big piece of heaven. Yesterday we went to Hilder Anderson Swenson’s 100th birthday party in St. Peter. Listening to her life story and her strong response (she still lives in her own home) was a piece of heaven. In fact—there are pieces of heaven all around us. All we need to do is open our eyes! And hearts and ears too!
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: Wow, how many choices do we have? l. being at Grandma's house?, 2. being in that hardwoods forest on NN in Kenosha, coun ty? 3 being in a 12 foot cartop fishing in Lake Geneva? 4. Having a cool beer and a candy bar on a hot day while threshing with Mel Carlson, 5. Listening to Colleen Andrews and Audrey Barber singing while in choir?", Thanks Jack, YOu have me crying, I forgot, camping and fishing with my family anywhere.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/14/07
“Wise men talk, because they have something to say….fools, because they have to say something.” (Plato – Sent by B.G.) Pay attention; I have something to say. “Plato was a wise man.” One of my favorite courses in college was a Seminar on Plato. The Dialogs of Plato were a resource. Good stuff. Google it for a superficial look. ;-) Jack
“Wise men talk, because they have something to say….fools, because they have to say something.” (Plato – Sent by B.G.) Pay attention; I have something to say. “Plato was a wise man.” One of my favorite courses in college was a Seminar on Plato. The Dialogs of Plato were a resource. Good stuff. Google it for a superficial look. ;-) Jack
FROM D.S. IN SAN DIEGO: It even goes to "writing". I read some of the blogs yesterday and a couple of those
were by fools. That's my opinion and I'm sticking to it.
MORE FROM D.S.: I do love reading all those that agree WITH ME!!
You do know I'm jerking your chain don't you?
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: Philosophy was my weakest course - too much gray for an engineer!
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: With 13" of snow outside keeping me indoors, sitting here at the keyboard I may as well "say something." I hope that isn't foolish.
FROM B.D. IN MICHIGAN: That was the best one of the month..........I can think of a few people this fits both ways, but the fools would never guess I picked them, they would be too busy talking. This is one of those winning words I'll remember for a very long time, Thanks.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Problem is that some fools have a knack of making their garbage csound convincing. Politicians are well noted here. (Although they eventually do get found out)
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: How many times have I wished I would have kept my mouth shut! I think that is the one thing I can say I would do differently sometimes....just simply listen! Plato was wise!
FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: i have nothing to say, yet.....oops i guess i'm a fool once again!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/13/07“ It’s OK to get angry with God. He can take it.” (Unknown) There are times when things don’t go they way we want them to go. There are reasons. But when reason, doesn’t work, there is God to blame. “Why does God let this happen? Why doesn’t God do something?” To me, God is the loving, caring and understanding parent. He sees things with the larger perspective. Hang in there. ;-) Jack
FROM C.H. ON CAPE COD: I think anger, directed at God, is much better than one of the alternatives some embrace - ignoring. When angry with someone, you are still in relationship, you are still engaged. Hence, I think anger can be a better alternative than silent treatment. Furthermore, the psalms underscore the point of this quotation.
FROM C.H. ON CAPE COD: I think anger, directed at God, is much better than one of the alternatives some embrace - ignoring. When angry with someone, you are still in relationship, you are still engaged. Hence, I think anger can be a better alternative than silent treatment. Furthermore, the psalms underscore the point of this quotation.
RESPONSE FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Anger, ignoring? How about accepting that He is God and we are His creation?
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Being angry with God seems idiotic, to me, if you truly believe God is your maker. If you believe you have a right to question God, do you believe in God?
FROM MOLINE C.F.: I know you are right and I remind myself of that when times get depressing. But, it God made us in His image, wht did He make you so ugly?
FROM J.O. IN MICHIGAN: I try not to get angry with God, because I don't want him to get angry with me!
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: ok, U R a philosophy Major, or Minor???( I can't even spell it ), Pardon me, over 3800 GI's dead in a damned war. and he doesn't kick butt, U bet, I don't understand. Perspective, save me, Dear Lord, I do not understand, I am not angry, I am bewildered. Dear Sir, we need to discuss this, our children are being butchered, as they butcher others. I wasn't raised this way, perspective? We do not want to fund this war any more, We didn't want it to start. I am going down by the riverside, to study War no more.
FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: oh, i know this for a fact.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/12/07
“I am a deeply superficial person.” (Andy Warhol) Some may look at these daily Winning Words and say that they are superficial. Maybe so, but I encourage you to look for the deeper meaning. There’s a method to my madness. Andy and I are alike in that way. Do you care to join our club? ;-) Jack
FROM D.P. IN MINNESOTA: No thanks, not right now !
D.P. HAS CHANGE OF HEART: Sure, why not, I'm as superficial or more so than anyone. I just don't want you calling a meeting in New York or Humbug, Iowa !
“I am a deeply superficial person.” (Andy Warhol) Some may look at these daily Winning Words and say that they are superficial. Maybe so, but I encourage you to look for the deeper meaning. There’s a method to my madness. Andy and I are alike in that way. Do you care to join our club? ;-) Jack
FROM D.P. IN MINNESOTA: No thanks, not right now !
D.P. HAS CHANGE OF HEART: Sure, why not, I'm as superficial or more so than anyone. I just don't want you calling a meeting in New York or Humbug, Iowa !
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: You have such wNo thanks, not right now !it so early in the morning.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: To make people think, and investigate for themselves is a good use of superficiality.
FROM L.K. IN OHIO: To believe that is also to consider that one may be superficially deep.
I am more the latter than the former. Words are almost always superficial. They can't capture everything.
You and your words are generally quite "winning" in my view.
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: I think I'm already a member!
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: Hits the nail on the head, for me more than I care to have happen.
FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: Jesus the truth in my life. I am superficial and He is deep.
FROM B.G. IN MICHIGAN: nothing superficial about WW, Jack. If people are unable to see profoud simplicity in WW, they are missing some good wisdom for living.
FROM J.D. IN MINNESOTA: I AM A CHARTER MEMBER
FROM S.A. IN VEGAS: I try to consider the source when determining if written work is superficial. (Stereotyping always gets me in trouble here) Your sources for WW tend not to be superficial. Aren’t you glad to hear I'm so wise as to determine the significance of others’ experience(s) as told in their written reflections? Ha!
FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: NO!
RESPONSE TO J.S.: You're too deep for us...and not superficial enuf.
RESPONSE FROM J.S.: With the little bit of knowledge that you have of me, that seems like a truly superficial judgment.
FROM D.S. IN MICHIGAN: OK, so this one we need to discuss. ;o) Not sure about your club.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Andy was superficial but only on the surface. Aren't we all?
FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: Sounds like good company to me! I would be proud and happy to be a member of your club. Too bad Andy's not with us anymore....he could design our club t-shirts!
FROM EMT SINGS IN MICHIGAN: I know that you are anything but superficial!
RESPONSE: DON'T BE TOO SURE!
FROM J.O. IN MICHIGAN: Nothing in you Winning Words has ever been superficial. Many times I find myself scratching my head because I know there is something there I missed.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: I don't want to look like a label on a Campbell Soup can! But I'm in your club!
FROM MOLINER, J.T.: I do look deep at each message. I do belong.!! Don't stop now.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/11/07
“ If A is success in life, then A equals X plus Y plus Z. Work is X; Y is play; and Z is keeping your mouth shut.” (Einstein) I’ve never thought of Albert as someone with a sense of humor. But why not? As humans, we are more the same than we are different. I’d like to know more about the real Einstein. Remember that equation: A=X+Y+Z. Here’s to success in your life! ;-) Jack
“ If A is success in life, then A equals X plus Y plus Z. Work is X; Y is play; and Z is keeping your mouth shut.” (Einstein) I’ve never thought of Albert as someone with a sense of humor. But why not? As humans, we are more the same than we are different. I’d like to know more about the real Einstein. Remember that equation: A=X+Y+Z. Here’s to success in your life! ;-) Jack
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: A little-known fact about Albert (which aided in his success) is that he and his brother created Einstein Bros. Bagels. Albert later postulated E=mc2, while exploring the idea of nuclear fission, in an effort to find something that could break open a stale bagel.
FROM L.P. IN MICHIGAN: Back in 4th grade we had to read a biography of Einstein. I'm sure the book is still floating around my parents house somewhere. I don't recall much of the details of his life but I didn't have the sense that he was particularly dour. It is definitely an interesting formula that he has put forth.
FOLLOW UP FROM L.P.: Ha! nah, my 4th grade teacher was just a bit nuts. He had served in the Canadian armed services--Major Vaughn. He smoked a pipe, played the bagpipes, and ran his classroom like a ship. Every morning after we recited the pledge of allegiance we sang the national anthem. I was number 8 (we all had numbers) and the row of desks that I sat in was called Ajax. I actually liked the guy though and I must say that 4th grade was probably my most memorable elementary school year.
FROM REV J.S. IN MICHIGAN: The biography EINSTEIN which came out this past year is a great place to start....I loved it and I think you would too.
FROM DR H.R. IN MICHIGAN: Be cautious in wishing to know more, in many ways knowing more about someone only diminishes their shine. There is a wonderful new biography called Einstein, by Walter Isaacson. I have read it and it provides as complete a picture of the man as you might wish and his physics in relatively easy to understand language. I would be glad to lend it to you.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Never was good at algebra but it sounds like a successful endeavor to me! And Einstein was an overcomer of great obstacles so he would know! I read a book on Einstein and he had a wonderful sense of humor. Hope you have a lot of laughs today too!
FROM MOLINER, L.P.: Hi, again. Humor is another form of intelligence. I've always thought that God probably has a good sense of humor, too.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Even in his humor, ol' Al was relevant.
MORE FROM C.F.: Did you know that the literal interpretaion of Einstien is "One Mug"?
FOLLOW UP TO C.F. FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: Regarding Moliner C.F.'s comment about Einstein meaning literally "one mug", that is perhaps humor, or is just wrong. The literal translation of the German "Ein-stein" would be "one stone". Stein is German for stone, and the use of "stein" to mean beer mug is no doubt because they were made of ceramic stoneware, thus shortened to stone.
FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: It sounds like when people ask why we do what we do we should tell them clearly and otherwise we should shut up and just listen to them. Einstein's words do resonate with these words for evangelizing. I'm trying to take them to heart.
FROM L.H. IN OHIO: I've never really gotten the "Z" part of it,ha!
Monday, December 10, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/10/07
“The road to the sacred leads through the secular.” (Abraham Heschel) Do you think that it’s possible…that all the commercialism of the season can lead to an appreciation of the sacred? I’m wondering. I hear many comments that the real meaning of Christmas has been lost. I’m not so sure. Do you know of examples? ;-) Jack
FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: I never thought about it that way but yes, I think it can lead to the sacred. I don't think that the real meaning of Christmas can ever be lost.....it's too powerful and the spirit "gets up in you" even when you think that it won't.
L.H. IN MARCO DOESN'T AGREE: Heschel would make a good con man. He's is wrong.
“The road to the sacred leads through the secular.” (Abraham Heschel) Do you think that it’s possible…that all the commercialism of the season can lead to an appreciation of the sacred? I’m wondering. I hear many comments that the real meaning of Christmas has been lost. I’m not so sure. Do you know of examples? ;-) Jack
FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: I never thought about it that way but yes, I think it can lead to the sacred. I don't think that the real meaning of Christmas can ever be lost.....it's too powerful and the spirit "gets up in you" even when you think that it won't.
L.H. IN MARCO DOESN'T AGREE: Heschel would make a good con man. He's is wrong.
MORE FROM L.H.: This is a Christian country (over 80%) and it is what this country was founded on. You can't rewrite history! I thought that especially with your background, you would want to spread the Word.By the way, yesterday I picked up a copy of his book.
FROM MOLINER, L.P.: Hi. I think we're finding the meaning again. Gratefully, the stores dumped all the "political correctness" they tried last year, and we see trees, wreaths and Christmas again-- maybe that's what it took to make us realize how much Christmas really means to us as a society. People seem to be less in a party mood, and more in a reflective mood this year-- an improvement, in my opinion. Our political candidates certainly have prompted a lot of talk about religion, and it seems there are more people coming forward who are proud of their beliefs and not afraid to talk about them. I think as a country we're becoming more tolerant of each other and realizing that our differences are not that different after all. Merry Christmas!
FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: I know an example of two people's experiences in Israel. I know a pastor who visited Israel many years ago and saw the place where Jesus was supposed to have lain in a manger. The place looks very commercial now, a spot surrounded by all sorts of souvenir stuff, plastic Jesuses, etc., etc., etc. At first he said he was very angry, very putoff, very disappointed but, as he came to terms with the current reality of it all, he came to an appreciation that THAT PLACE LOOKED EXACTLY LIKE THE PLACE WHERE JESUS WAS NEEDED TO BE BORN. A friend has just come back from a trip to Israel and she had a similar experience. The place seems Hollywoodish with a star at the place where the manger was supposed to have been. I do think the commercialism of the season leads me to an appreciation of the sacred because the real sacred is the only thing that sets right it all. Let the real sacred be in the midst of it. Do not try to isolate the real sacred away from the commercialism because the battle needs to be fought and we, in the end, need to be able somehow to see our idolatry, what false prophets we are not to follow. Over the weekend we just sent out $73 postage on boxes of food for all of our relatives. Candies my daughter bought in Texas, fudge I made and also baklava because that is a different food you can buy in this area. Plus our homemade Christmas cards with our hopes for peace and love and that we all remember and celebrate the birth of Jesus. It might seem silly for quite a few of our relatives to see us spend money like that but, at this time, this is kind of our way of dealing with the commercialism and putting it out there for everyone all around Who we think is important and are remembering. I know quite a few other people are contributing their Christmas money to things like Heifer Project and other charities in lieu of presents to their relatives and trying to get back to the meaning of Christmas like that. Many years I make homemade gifts and that is also very satisfying but it's because I have first reflected upon what it feels like to give and receive presents that are "just picked out from the shelf at the store and don't seem to be very personal." . I believe the road to the sacred leads through the secular too.
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: I wonder?!?, I wonder if I give our grandchildrena big gunny sack to put their things in. They get so much, and what for? I just wonder if we should go back to the Christmas we had as kids, and were damned greatful for the apple and orange with a small bag of Zion candy that we received in Sunday School. We also got socks, underwear, and gloves at home. Aunt Lydia used to bring us some 5c Hershey bars (* now made in Mexico ) and we were so gratefull. Incidently, if we got shoes, it was at the start of School in Sept. We were so gratefull for our Ma and Pa, and our aunts and uncles. Hey a hug from Grandma was the greatest.
FROM REV. J.D. IN MINNESOTA: A PASTOR FRIEND OF MINE WAS DYING OF CANCER AND TOLD ME: JOHN I PREACHED ABOUT IMMANUEL MANY TIMES, BUT I NEVER UNDERSTOOD GOD WITH US UNTIL THIS CANCER. IN THE MIDST OF THE COMMERCIALISM MAYBE WE NEED ADVERSITY TO REALIZE THE GIFT OF JESUS.
FROM MOLINER C.F.: If the real meaning of Christmas has been lost, why is there standing room only at the Cathedral on Christmas Day?
Friday, December 07, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/7/07
“May you never forget what is worth remembering, nor ever remember what is best forgotten.” (Irish Blessing) As I was searching for a Pearl Harbor Day quote, this one came to my attention. We remember the sacrifice of life on 12/7/41; some of the details of intrigue might be better set aside. I guess that’s the way it is with other episodes in our life, too. ;-) Jack
FROM B.D. IN MICHIGAN: I WENT THERE ONCE IN MY LIFE, I HAD TO LEAVE AFTER A FEW HOURS, SOOOOOOO SAD !!!!!!!!!
FROM A.M. IN MICHIGAN: Returned from Italy last night. Wonderful trip. Many Japanese were at the hotels. I initiated conversations especially with the young since they were more willing to talk. I was 11 when Pearl Harbor was bombed.. I remember it well-President Roosevelt speaking to us on the radio, movie news, rationing, tearing down the El train tracks in New york City which were used for the war effort, the young men and women enlisting, the draft, rationing. Time goes on. My husband , who served in World War 11 , traveled to Japan many times for GM. He invited Japanese visitors to our home for dinner and long conversations ensued. There was so much suffering on both sides. When I met these young people on the trip, my heart was peaceful. I enjoyed the interaction. We have come a long way.
Your Irish blessing says it all.
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: There is a lot about forgiveness wrapped in those Winning Words, and forgiveness is appropriate from both nations that suffered tragically following December 7, 1941. Thanks for words that show understanding on Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Fortunately, time does bring healing.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: I've never heard this one before....and it is awesome. I was doing volunteer work at a nursing home for my Girl Scouting Day's years ago, and it was so interesting. Most people only remembered the good old days. And, at the last, when there was no conscience communication, you could always softly sing the old hymns and they would respond. They would respond to The Lord's Prayer too.
My grandparents had an cousin live with them when she turned 94. Her name was "Aunt Emmy". (Her father was in the Civil War and we have his artifacts. He was in the Michigan 22nd.) She lived for years under my grandparents care, and us grandkids helped take care of her for my grandma. Aunt Emmy loved to hear Jingle Bells and Jesus Loves Me. She only remembered good things and I pray, when the time comes, I will too. I try to do that now, and I'm sure you do to. There is so much good to remember!
FROM REV C.L. IN OHIO: Isn't forgiveness something we do just because we can never forget?
Didn't someone say if we didn't remember our past we were bound to relive it?
FROM L.H. IN MARCO: In this season of Advent, I still think back to how you covered Advent at Holy Spirit Church.I still have a sticker from one of the bulletins at the beginning of my rolodex that says "Love, Peace, Joy, Hope, Christ." Each week your sermon covered one of those topics and it made Advent especially meaningful. I always thought it was done that way at all Lutheran Churchs, but I haven't seen that since. The closest I have seen was on the Catholic network cable channel (EWTN) I watch quite frequently----they talked about Hope.Its taken me 65 years to hear of this guy (I'm sure you have) but I just finished the book "Profhet of Orthodoxy, This Wisdom of GK Chesterton." Most of his words are as true today as when he wrote them. I will plan on buying some of his books.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: I'll try to remember that.
“May you never forget what is worth remembering, nor ever remember what is best forgotten.” (Irish Blessing) As I was searching for a Pearl Harbor Day quote, this one came to my attention. We remember the sacrifice of life on 12/7/41; some of the details of intrigue might be better set aside. I guess that’s the way it is with other episodes in our life, too. ;-) Jack
FROM B.D. IN MICHIGAN: I WENT THERE ONCE IN MY LIFE, I HAD TO LEAVE AFTER A FEW HOURS, SOOOOOOO SAD !!!!!!!!!
FROM A.M. IN MICHIGAN: Returned from Italy last night. Wonderful trip. Many Japanese were at the hotels. I initiated conversations especially with the young since they were more willing to talk. I was 11 when Pearl Harbor was bombed.. I remember it well-President Roosevelt speaking to us on the radio, movie news, rationing, tearing down the El train tracks in New york City which were used for the war effort, the young men and women enlisting, the draft, rationing. Time goes on. My husband , who served in World War 11 , traveled to Japan many times for GM. He invited Japanese visitors to our home for dinner and long conversations ensued. There was so much suffering on both sides. When I met these young people on the trip, my heart was peaceful. I enjoyed the interaction. We have come a long way.
Your Irish blessing says it all.
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: There is a lot about forgiveness wrapped in those Winning Words, and forgiveness is appropriate from both nations that suffered tragically following December 7, 1941. Thanks for words that show understanding on Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Fortunately, time does bring healing.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: I've never heard this one before....and it is awesome. I was doing volunteer work at a nursing home for my Girl Scouting Day's years ago, and it was so interesting. Most people only remembered the good old days. And, at the last, when there was no conscience communication, you could always softly sing the old hymns and they would respond. They would respond to The Lord's Prayer too.
My grandparents had an cousin live with them when she turned 94. Her name was "Aunt Emmy". (Her father was in the Civil War and we have his artifacts. He was in the Michigan 22nd.) She lived for years under my grandparents care, and us grandkids helped take care of her for my grandma. Aunt Emmy loved to hear Jingle Bells and Jesus Loves Me. She only remembered good things and I pray, when the time comes, I will too. I try to do that now, and I'm sure you do to. There is so much good to remember!
FROM REV C.L. IN OHIO: Isn't forgiveness something we do just because we can never forget?
Didn't someone say if we didn't remember our past we were bound to relive it?
FROM L.H. IN MARCO: In this season of Advent, I still think back to how you covered Advent at Holy Spirit Church.I still have a sticker from one of the bulletins at the beginning of my rolodex that says "Love, Peace, Joy, Hope, Christ." Each week your sermon covered one of those topics and it made Advent especially meaningful. I always thought it was done that way at all Lutheran Churchs, but I haven't seen that since. The closest I have seen was on the Catholic network cable channel (EWTN) I watch quite frequently----they talked about Hope.Its taken me 65 years to hear of this guy (I'm sure you have) but I just finished the book "Profhet of Orthodoxy, This Wisdom of GK Chesterton." Most of his words are as true today as when he wrote them. I will plan on buying some of his books.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: I'll try to remember that.
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/6/07
“Everyone is kneaded out of the same dough, but not baked in the same oven” (Another Yiddish Proverb) Ain’t it the truth? There is so much that’s the same with us; why do we persist in looking at the comparatively little that is different? I like the variety of friends and acquaintances that I have. I appreciate, too, the backgrounds that have made us who we are. ;-) Jack
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Would different ovens explain many of the half-baked ideas in the world? In Good Debt, Bad Debt, I wrote:
The father says to the son, “I’m concerned about you being
at the bottom of your class.” The son replies, “Don’t worry,
Dad. They teach the same things at both ends.” Within a classroom,
this might be true. But within neighborhoods throughout
America, the lessons can be very different (p. 92).
Even when we are in the same oven we don’t always rise to our potential, some come out undercooked/half-baked, some are baked too hard, some are old and crusty, some are warm and inviting, and most are just right, it is true we all come from the same dough. Perhaps it is up to us to seek the yeast.
FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: Your Winning Words today are making me recall the dream you told us about in one of your sermons. Remember the time you dreamed the priest was offering communion and you needed to take your own bread out of your pocket? That was just hilarious to me, coming as I do from a background where the Catholics and the Church of Christ Protestants were trying to go forward in the faith in our family. There is so much on the Channel 2 Catholic TV station here in Detroit that I appreciate but also so much that I also put little stock in. One time some guy was explaining how wrong Martin Luther was in his theology and leaving the Catholic Church. They don't seem to teach that Martin Luther was ex-communicated but that he left. On the other hand, I appreciate very deeply Henri Nouwen's meditations that come to me here each morning on the computer too along with your Winning Words and also Miriam Woolbert's daily scripture. I do believe we are all kneaded out of the same dough
and need to accept that we are not baked in the same oven,
how very true,
busy being baked here in Michigan.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Cookie cutters are for cookies.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Whenver the subject comes up, and we talked about changing the things in our lives...especially the rough spots my answer is always the same....they made me who I am. I'm different in so many ways from everyone around me, but I'm just the same too.
How boring it would bes
To have to live with a bunch of mes!
Poem especially written for my different friend, Pastor Freed!
Any requests for written permission to use it must come to me personally! :-) :-)
FROM E.A. IN MICHIGAN: > Here is another yiddish saying: With one tokus (butt) you can't dance at two
weddings. Think about this one.
I DID THINK AND ASKED FOR A HINT. HERE IT IS: Don't try to be everything to everyone---or don't commit yourself to too many obligations that you cannot give your best to each one .And so on.
“Everyone is kneaded out of the same dough, but not baked in the same oven” (Another Yiddish Proverb) Ain’t it the truth? There is so much that’s the same with us; why do we persist in looking at the comparatively little that is different? I like the variety of friends and acquaintances that I have. I appreciate, too, the backgrounds that have made us who we are. ;-) Jack
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Would different ovens explain many of the half-baked ideas in the world? In Good Debt, Bad Debt, I wrote:
The father says to the son, “I’m concerned about you being
at the bottom of your class.” The son replies, “Don’t worry,
Dad. They teach the same things at both ends.” Within a classroom,
this might be true. But within neighborhoods throughout
America, the lessons can be very different (p. 92).
Even when we are in the same oven we don’t always rise to our potential, some come out undercooked/half-baked, some are baked too hard, some are old and crusty, some are warm and inviting, and most are just right, it is true we all come from the same dough. Perhaps it is up to us to seek the yeast.
FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: Your Winning Words today are making me recall the dream you told us about in one of your sermons. Remember the time you dreamed the priest was offering communion and you needed to take your own bread out of your pocket? That was just hilarious to me, coming as I do from a background where the Catholics and the Church of Christ Protestants were trying to go forward in the faith in our family. There is so much on the Channel 2 Catholic TV station here in Detroit that I appreciate but also so much that I also put little stock in. One time some guy was explaining how wrong Martin Luther was in his theology and leaving the Catholic Church. They don't seem to teach that Martin Luther was ex-communicated but that he left. On the other hand, I appreciate very deeply Henri Nouwen's meditations that come to me here each morning on the computer too along with your Winning Words and also Miriam Woolbert's daily scripture. I do believe we are all kneaded out of the same dough
and need to accept that we are not baked in the same oven,
how very true,
busy being baked here in Michigan.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Cookie cutters are for cookies.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Whenver the subject comes up, and we talked about changing the things in our lives...especially the rough spots my answer is always the same....they made me who I am. I'm different in so many ways from everyone around me, but I'm just the same too.
How boring it would bes
To have to live with a bunch of mes!
Poem especially written for my different friend, Pastor Freed!
Any requests for written permission to use it must come to me personally! :-) :-)
FROM E.A. IN MICHIGAN: > Here is another yiddish saying: With one tokus (butt) you can't dance at two
weddings. Think about this one.
I DID THINK AND ASKED FOR A HINT. HERE IT IS: Don't try to be everything to everyone---or don't commit yourself to too many obligations that you cannot give your best to each one .And so on.
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/5/07
“God created the world full of little worlds.” (Yiddish Proverb) I find it interesting that so many folks have long discussions about when and how God created the world and never get around to asking, why. Forget “the words” and look through a telescope or a microscope. How many little worlds can you come up with? ;-) Jack
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: To quote Carl Sagen..."Billions, and billions and billions!" Good Wednesday Morning to you!
FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: That's because they don't read the scriptures.....they are full of the "Why" question. Perhaps the ELCA has been doing to much looking "beyond the scriptures" and not enough in them!!!
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: Given all the opportunities we have to explore things from the grand scale to the finite scale, how could anyone be bored in life?
FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: "What is man that thou are mindful of him, and the son of man that thou does care for him?" Ps. 8:4
FROM A SCHOOL SUPT. IN MICHIGAN: I tell my Principals to remember they are but a star in the universe (the school district) they are not the universe.
“God created the world full of little worlds.” (Yiddish Proverb) I find it interesting that so many folks have long discussions about when and how God created the world and never get around to asking, why. Forget “the words” and look through a telescope or a microscope. How many little worlds can you come up with? ;-) Jack
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: To quote Carl Sagen..."Billions, and billions and billions!" Good Wednesday Morning to you!
FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: That's because they don't read the scriptures.....they are full of the "Why" question. Perhaps the ELCA has been doing to much looking "beyond the scriptures" and not enough in them!!!
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: Given all the opportunities we have to explore things from the grand scale to the finite scale, how could anyone be bored in life?
FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: "What is man that thou are mindful of him, and the son of man that thou does care for him?" Ps. 8:4
FROM A SCHOOL SUPT. IN MICHIGAN: I tell my Principals to remember they are but a star in the universe (the school district) they are not the universe.
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/4/07
“Do not free the camel of the burden of his hump; you may be freeing him from being a camel.” (M. Kathleen Casey) I guess I’ve never thought of it that way before. We are who we are. Of course, if I could talk with a camel, he might want to be rid of his hump. I read somewhere that Helen Keller was satisfied with her hump. ;-) Jack
“Do not free the camel of the burden of his hump; you may be freeing him from being a camel.” (M. Kathleen Casey) I guess I’ve never thought of it that way before. We are who we are. Of course, if I could talk with a camel, he might want to be rid of his hump. I read somewhere that Helen Keller was satisfied with her hump. ;-) Jack
FROM EMT SINGS IN MICHIGAN: Talk about a hump! Have you seen those renowned cojoined twins that are joined at the head? They are often featured on Discovery, on documentaries,etc. The one twin is the verbal one and able to walk. The other twin is constantly on a wheeled contraption. Obviously, they are constantly together and I saw them lately on a program where they were going through a museum and enjoying it like everyone else. As they were interviewed the verbal twin stated that she is just like anyone else who is making her way thru life and could not fathom being any different. She is apparantly able to "get inside herself" and function, at least emotionally, independantly.
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: If you offered to remove the camel's hump, it might reply as Igor did, in the movie comedy Young Frankenstein..."What hump?"
MORE FROM R.I.: Another fan of Mel Brooks? Regarding Young Frankenstein, there are so many clever transformations of common expressions (Pardon me, is that the Transylvania Station?) which I'm sure you appreciate as well. One sequence that broke me up was Igor helping the buxom young woman from the coach as Dr. Frankenstein is standing at the castle door and says, "Wow, what a pair of knockers!
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: I wonder if Lincoln, Juliett Low, or anyone with any kind of "handicap", if they would be different people if they weren't so burdened. Don't we all have our humps? That's what makes us us! The camel's hump enables him to survive in places he never would be able to live....so I'm sure he probably is grateful....most of the time!
MORE FROM J.L.: (On Juliette) Did you read about her wedding and the rice getting into her ear? People face all kinds of adversity in their lives but keep going....at least most people do...
FROM C.H. ON CAPE COD: Intersting you mention Helen Keller... When I read the quote I think of some in the deaf community who would agree adamently (and have major issues with the idea of a cochlear implant, for example).
Monday, December 03, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 12/3/07
“Divide and rule is a sound motto. Unite and lead is a better one.” (Goethe) These are some good words to keep in mind as we move toward elections next year. The negative is to divide. The positive is to unite. I’m looking for a uniter. It’s interesting to note that Goethe lived in a period called, the Enlightenment. It’s worth doing some reading about that time in history, even if you only Google it. ;-) Jack
“Divide and rule is a sound motto. Unite and lead is a better one.” (Goethe) These are some good words to keep in mind as we move toward elections next year. The negative is to divide. The positive is to unite. I’m looking for a uniter. It’s interesting to note that Goethe lived in a period called, the Enlightenment. It’s worth doing some reading about that time in history, even if you only Google it. ;-) Jack
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: I agree that uniting is positive. It generates power to get things done. The essence of unity is strength, cooperation and solutions.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Yes, we need a "uniter" as our country is in danger of imploding....we don't need an enemy as we are fighting ourselves. Hopefully, someone will step up and set the tone to work together....a strong Christian who will pray a lot and work hard with everyone! We must unite as did our forefathers, even with their differences! With God for us, who could be against us? God's blessings on this freezing Michigan Monday!
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Feeling Goethe today: Dost thou fancy that I should hate life,
Should flee to the wilderness, Because not all my budding dreams have blossomed?
No man deserves his freedom or his life, who does not daily win them anew. Goethe.
I think this is Goethe’s way of saying stop the whining. I predict the election will go to the party that can “Balkanize” enough Americans to win the primary and then unite enough of the “Balkanized” groups to paste together a “win.” In the process America loses, we are more divided and less united. We run against each other—not “for” America.
MORE FROM JON: “No man deserves his freedom or his life, who does not daily win them anew (Faust).”
This part of the quote was Faust, not Goethe.
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: Excellent! >:o
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: You can't lead an enemy that is united against you. And let's face it, we have enemies.
FROM P.S. IN MICHIGAN: So is ( or was ) George Bush! this country needs a uniter badly and Idon't see any on our political scene even with couple dozen wantnabees!
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