Jack’s Winning Words 10/31/08
“Without wearing any mask we’re conscious of, we have a special face for each friend.” (Oliver Wendell Holmes) Just because it’s Halloween, you don’t have to wear a false face, or one that frightens people. I remember once asking a student to give a summary of the 10 Commandments. The reply was simply: BE NICE! ;-) Jack

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Good Winning Words, especially during an election. I have been appalled at some people's reaction, even on your blog-site along the name calling, against people with different opinions. Just think how wonderful this world would be if everyone was just...nice.

FROM K.B. IN MI: My mask for you is always a respectful smile-- JACK'S RESPONSE: That's scarey.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Nicely said. REPLY: You're just being nice.!

FROM CJL IN OH: Not bad. Certainly easy to remember....

Jack’s Winning Words 10/30/08
“Silence is an opinion.” (Gil Atkinson) You don’t have to give a vocal answer to every question put to you. Sometimes a look is enough. I was born when Silent Cal was president. There are several opinions as to how Coolidge got his nickname. One source says that he married a very talkative woman. ;-) Jack.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: I would answer, but it may be smarter for me to be silent.

FROM L.K. IN OH: Since I'm always talking, I do not seem to have many (perhaps) good opinions,ha!

FROM P.O. IN MI: Boo, hiss!

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Silence is golden. Let's get rich. JACK'S RESPONSE: SPEECH IS SILVER, SILENCE IS GOLDEN - "The value placed upon saying less, rather than more, as reflected in this proverb can be traced as far back as the early Egyptians, who recorded one such saying: 'Silence is more profitable than abundance of speech.' The current proverb was rendered for the first time in the Judaic Biblical commentaries called the 'Midrash' (c. 600), which gave the proverb as 'If speech is silvern, then silence is golden.'
One witty adaptation in Brian Aldiss's 'The Primal Urge' (1961) seems particularly appropriate to modern times: "Speech is silver; silence is golden; print is dynamite." MORE FROM C.F.: As Abe Lincoln said, "It is better to remain silent and reach your golden years than to speak and remove all the silver from your teeth."

FROM PR F.M. IN WI: I always appreciate your daily winning word . . . I don't always respond because I just digest . . . and 'silence is an opinion.'

FROM WATERFORD JAN: Did you really have to include that reason for Coolidge being Silent? That's too close to home (mine).

FROM EMT SINGS IN MI: That is what my husband's friends say if he is too quiet!

FROM J.D. IN MN: JACK, THAT WILL DO IT.

FROM MKH IN MI: I did read it, have you been talking to my husband?

FROM MOLINER CROC: " Silent Cal." Couldn`t get a word in edgewise , maybe.

Jack’s Winning Words 10/29/08
“Today’s trying times in about twenty years will have become The Good Old Days.” (Bernard Meltzer) This morning I heard a “financial expert” make that same prediction at a meeting of The Optimist Club. I’ve learned not to trust some of those financial experts. Quoting from Annie: “The sun’ll come out Tomorrow. Bet your bottom dollar That tomorrow there’ll be sun!” Tell me in twenty years if I’m wrong. ;-) Jack

FOLLOW UP QUOTE: You must continue to gain expertise, but avoid thinking like anexpert. (Denis Waitley)

FROM N.L. IN FL: We are just mere mortals, not much we can do, I was just another Joe the Plumber. Now look at what the Congress accomplished in such a short time, and all the Wall Street attorneys and MBA's. What a billion dollar mess.

FROM J.H. IN OH: I bet you are right.... but let's do talk about it in 20 years!

FROM MOLINER LIZ: Let's hope it doesn't take 20 years! Perhaps that "financial expert" should speak at the Pessimist Club for his next engagement... Annie's right and that's one of my favorite songs ever.

FROM THRIVENT TOM: Now don't bear down too hard on us financial people! JACK'S RESPONSE: Notice that I said....I've learned not to trust SOME of those financial expects. YOU, I trust!

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: That paints an extremely bad picture for the future. God is with us and will be with us then and now. JACK'S RESPONSE: If you believe what is painted.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: As the old saying goes, "The more things change, the more they stay the same." Tell me. Then why should I vote for Obama? REPLY: I've already voted, and I haven't even watched tonight's half hour before the ball game. MORE FROM C.F.: Also in Annie, "You're never fully dressed without a smile." Try one on for size today.

FROM WATERFORD JAN: With people losing jobs and homes and financial security, no one will look back on this particular time and consider it good. My personal life is in good shape, but I have family and friends who are hurting. We must keep faith and give thanks that we can overcome these bad times and know the future can be better.

FROM M.L. IN IL: ...just thinking about tomorrow... MORE: ...i love you tomorrow...you're always a day away.

Jack’s Winning Words 10/28/08
“Believe in the magic of tomorrow, and your spirits will be lifted on wings of hope.” (Kobi Yamada) I like the TOMORROW song from Annie. I like the music and the lyrics. Tomorrow can be an excuse for putting off what needs to be done today. But I would rather look at it as a belief in and a hope for the future. Tomorrow lifts my spirits. ;-) Jack

FROM L.P. IN MI: When I was a kid, say 8 or 9, I used to put my Annie record on and sing "Tomorrow" out my west facing bedroom window every night before the sun set. I was sure that if I did not remember to do this it would rain the next day. I wonder what funny habits my little one will pick up in her tomorrows?

FROM MOLINER C.F.: The rest of the lyrics go..."You're always a day away". I think I like today better. I can touch it. AND MORE: I'll bet a nickle that one ofyour other favorites is "The Rainbow Connection."
AND STILL MORE: Took a couple of minutes off and youtubed Kermit and then "Rainboow Connection." It's gonna be a happy afternoon!!!. www.youtube.com.

TOMORROW LYRICS: [ANNIE]The sun'll come out TomorrowBet your bottom dollar That tomorrow There'll be sun! Just thinkin' aboutTomorrow Clears away the cobwebs, And the sorrow 'Til there's none! When I'm stuck a day That's gray, And lonely, I just stick out my chin And Grin, And Say, Oh! The sun'll come outTomorrow So ya gotta hang on 'Til tomorrow Come what may Tomorrow! Tomorrow!I love ya Tomorrow! You're alwaysA dayA way!

FROM S.G. IN TAMPA: I totally agree and have a music box with the song Tomorrow. We were lucky enough to see the Broadway play in New York with standing room only. The play was much better than the movie in my opinion.

FROM B.G. IN MI: Nice reflection, Jack

Jack’s Winning Words 10/27/08
If we cannot now end our differences, at least we can help make the world safe for diversity.” (JFK) Last week I was part of a discussion group of 25 adults and 25+ high school students from our community. At my table of eight were an Iraqi, a Syrian, 3 Asians, an African American and 2 Caucasians. It was agreed that what we liked best about our community was its diversity. Our differences seemed to melt away. What do you like best about your community? ;-) Jack.

FROM MOLINER G.S. NOW LIVING IN iOWA: Is this Heaven? No, it's Iowa. HAWKEYE COUNTRY! I've strived for our company to be Rainbow.

FROM MOLINE LIZ: Were your tablemates Americans? It's a shame we still feel the need to label ourselves and each other in our country. Perhaps someday we'll get past the "you're African American, I'm Caucasian" mentality. We should all be proud of where we came from-- but we're Americans, first and foremost. Once we get past the labels, our corner of the world will be safer for diversity.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Every community is diverse and it has nothing to do with ethnicity. Put any two people in a room and yoiu have diversity. The thing I like best about our community is its diversity. As my old daddy used to say, "It takes all kinds..."

FROM PR F.M. IN WI: Our diversity - not just of the races but economic too!

FROM D.S. IN MI: It’s what I like best as well. There aren’t too many places I’ve visited quite like this. Glad you came last week.

FROM PR C.H. ON CAPE COD: Unfortunately our community is not very diverse. However, some of the things I like best include: beauty and rhythms of the land, the weather and the seasons, the sense of "special place" -and rootedness to the land and sea that many have here, the small town feeling and more sane feeling here than in metro-Boston or Detroit - and yet we still manage to make our lives hectic!

FROM GRANDMA GUFFEY IN TAMPA: Hi Jack, I wanted to share your winning words experience on diversity, and this is the first time I have found the time. Your experiences sounded very interesting. Mine have been mostly with our family and with our church. When we came to Tampa in l963, our church was a quonset hut and the families were large ones, mostly from the Midwest and East. Now it is like the United Nations. Our priests used to all be from Ireland. Now they are from Scotland, Poland, Colombia, Ghana,and the Phillipines. In our family Tom and Laurie have adopted two boys from Kasakhstan., a girl from Korea and a girl from Guatemala. They also have their oldest girl. Their world is a community that has many families with internatrional adoptions, and that is a very vibrant community. Our oldest daughter in Orlando has had a swim team there for 17 years. and other coaches have told her it is like the United Nations, too. Her swimmers have been from Viet Nam, Singapore, Sweden, Germany. any many others. Our twins, one in Texas and one in Tampa, have had many friends from all over the world. Susie's roomates a the University of Denver and Georgia Tech were from Iran, Japan. Venezuela, etc. Jeannie;s roommates at the U. of Denver were from France and at the U. O M iami Medical School there were many friends from Vietnam and the Phillipines and Cuba, of course. Our youngest daugher;s good friends are from Ethiopia and Cuba. Along the way there are friends of everyone from Trinidad and Buenos Aires. This is truly an amazing world we live. The fun for me is meeting the grandmothers, and we all seem to think alike when it comes to our families. MORE: I forgot to mention my experiences at USF in my Learning in Retirement classes through the past few years. My last class included a grandmother from China. She had come from Taiwan in l960 to go to college in Kentucky and has stayed. Another was a Japanese woman who was 11 when Doolittle bombed Tokyo. Most of the people in the classes have come from all over the United States. They are pretty diversified, to say the least.

Jack’s Winning Words 10/24/08
“I never cease being dumbfounded by the unbelievable things people believe in.” (Leo Rosten) This Polish-born humorist died 20 years ago. He really would have been dumbfounded today, listening to Talk-Radio. But enough of that. Our beliefs really are important and should not be taken lightly. Don’t be afraid to examine them and to adjust them, if necessary, and to stand up for them. Incidentally, we all have stories of persons and events that have shaped our belief system. Give thanks for them, today. ;-) Jack

FROM QUOTE A DAY: Fere libenter homines id quod volunt, credunt. Men willingly believe what they wish. (Caius Julius Caeser}

FROM MOLINER LIZ: I am dumbfounded listening to the mainstream media. JACK'S RESPONSE: We have a dunbfounded nation, because both sides can't believe what the other side is saying. One dumbfounded side will prevail. It always happens that way. MORE FROM LIZ: Hi. I am especially dumbfounded by this new "early voting." When I was in college I voted absentee. Since when can we just go vote when we feel like it? It's seems like that is leaving a lot of room for error and potential intentional tampering with the vote.

FROM B.P. IN FL: Why pick on talk radio??? What about TV News and todays biased newpapers? Half the country is dismayed........Where did the truth become fiction?????

FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Some people believe in the unbelievable some of the time and some prople beieve in the unbievable all of the time, but not all people believe in the unbelievable all of the time. Abe Engwall JACK'S RESPONSE: The key question in today's WWs was this...Who shaped your belief system? C.F. ANSWERS: Joan. She was a highly principled woman who was loving and wasn't afraid to let you know it. A real classy lady. I miss her terribly.

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: I support Leo. PEOPLE WHO INFLUENCED B.S.: Wow, what a question!!!! We'll start with Ma and Pa, then Unc John & Aunt Laura, maybe next Grandma Stevens, Grdpa died before he could directly influence me, but indirectly I am sure his presence came from his children to me. Next I suspect our neighbors and friends, my Sunday School teachers, my Sunday School companions, my teac hers at Roosevelt School, at Lincoln Jr High. ( coach Liddicoat, wow what a man ), Mr Brown my printing teacher, Miss Erickson ( she was not my teacher directly but she asked me to stop singing in the hall, ( on my way to ??))( she was one of the first teachers from Lincoln to came to hav e her Rx's filled ( from Lincoln, many followed including Coach Liddicoat). We cannot forget Mz Charlotte Moody, bless her pea pickin hide (I'll never forget that lady).Are U aware of the dozens of people in between these names, and the names of teachers at UW Extention, all my teachers at Wilmot High, especially Mr Marlin Schnurr ( he was extroadinary) and my music teachers esp. Gladys Smallfelt, Mz Hammond (River is black with the shadows on it, river and the rain are the things I love ). Dean Uhl at U.W. school of Ph is passed on but Dr. Louis Bussie is still alive. Dr. LLoyd Parks went to Ohio and they built a new Pharmacy bldg and named it after him. Dr. Wurster would not let me join the School of Pharm because I had not sent the required paper work and I wasn't schmardt enuff to go to Dr. Uhl and plead my case. I later convinced to allow me to graduate on time because I had attended summer school in Milwaukee when Dr. Eunice Bonnow was the director and so technically it was apart of U.W. sustems. Jack & Mary these people were so important to my education. And please my brother John, my sisters Peg and Marylou, my close friend Tony Parise, and the gent we named our son Rom after ( Ramchaundra Paracharum Bang ). These paragraphs do not do justice to the many people who are not listed. I am sorry , I apologize to them. They were so important in my life. One gent I will not forget was Mr Strom, pres of the First National Bank of Kenosha, After borrowing money from the bank, and talking awhile I realized I had to get back to work, so Iasked him where he wanted me to sign the papers. ,He said,"your name is your bond".

FROM S.G. IN TAMPA: Remember how the houses were marked in some way so that the hobos knew where to go for food. My grandmother was the reason our house was on the marker somehow.

Jack’s Winning Words 10/23/08
“Anyone can count the seeds in an apple, but only God can count the apples in a seed.” (Robert Schuller) I have an apple seed taped to my computer, along with this saying. It’s a daily reminder of the miracles that are around us all of the time. Perhaps you can think of others and share them. ;-) Jack

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: Such a provocative thought...it's no wonder I cannot fully perceive the depth of God's power.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Your computer room must be a fright. You've got more "stuff" posted there than wall space. Too much "stuff" confuses the brain. Pretty soon you will be asking yourself, "Who put this apple seed here? Johnie?"

FROM M.S. IN MI: Could you add a friend of mine, Kim, to your Winning Words list? I have been forwarding to her daily and she loves them as do I. Your winning words are the best possible start to my day.

FROM EMT SINGS IN MI: Have you by any chance read "Three Cups of Tea" or are you familiar with the humanitarian Greg Mortenson? I just finished reading it and am totally capitavated by him and what he has and is doing to "promote peace, one school at a time". He is the son of Lutheran missionaries and from MN. Need I say more?

FROM S.H. IN MI: Our property used to be an apple orchard. My husband has pretty much left them alone, cutting some, but it seems to be the case that new apple trees are growing next to each old trunk.
I'm always fearful that people around us might think we are an eyesore and actually people driving around in landscaping trucks routinely ask us if we need help, but so far so good because my husband seems to be intent on exploring the adventure of seeing what actually nature, God of Creation is doing here if we just pretty leave her/Him alone. Your Winning Words today made me think of our yard here.

FROM PR D.L. IN OREGON: I have this taped to my computer: "HOPE is the ability to look for the Music of the Future:FAITH is the ability to dance to it today". -- from a Bishop in one of our ELCA Pennsylvania synods

Jack’s Winning Words 10/22/08
“Hope is the poor man’s bread.” (George Herbert) One of my grandsons recently asked me, “How does today’s economic crisis compare with The Great Depression?” I had a chance to talk to him about poverty, and our responsibility to help the needy. I told him how people helped one another in those difficult times. I could and should have told him about the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19 ff). Google it! ;-) Jack

FROM P.L. IN MI: I always enjoyed thinking abut the saying that defines the difference between "recession" and "depression." A recession is when you don't have a job. A depression is when I don't have one. I think today's economy is so complicated that this analysis is probably right.

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: The reverse of Hope is Hopelessness. Who can live in hopelessness? That is a suicidal condition. I am reading The Rites of Spring by Eckstein and the condition of those poor people in the trenches in WW I was virtually hopelessness. They had to blank out their condition or they could not exist. MORE:
Socialism is the ownership of the means of production. Nothing in Obama's plan is anything like that. These conservaative fools have never read Marx or the great Socialist thinkers and they simply think that anything that smacks of governmental action is socialism. In that case, David was a terrific socialist since he had a kind of welfare system in Israel. Jeremiah must have preached socialism because he wanted the poor to be taken care of. The same with Jesus. Our church was founded by a socialist....if we use the conservative definition. They are goof balls.

FROM MOLINER J.T.: One of my favorite passages during this difficult time.

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: My Pa was a milkman during the depression. On select Saturedays after his 50 hr plus workweek he had xtra duty of delivering special orders. Some times I went with him. He delivered one pound of butter to Erna Muellenschlaeder on the corner of ?? 58th street and 37th ave., more than 10 miles distance and she said to Pa, "Charge it", yep 15cents. I know gas was only 19 cents a gallon, but my Pa's time was worth something. I don't think I said a word to Pa about it, but I never forgot how he worked his butt off for his family. How could I do any less when it was my turn to support a family? Also I still remember how John Fischer fixed my computer in his kitchen after store hours.Ya John I remember. Get well buddy.

Jack’s Winning Words 10/21/08
“My life has a superb cast, but I can’t figure out the plot.” (Ashleigh Brilliant) The unexpected twists and turns that life’s story takes can be confounding at times, but our faith assures us that there will be a happy ending. A,B. is one of my favorite authors. I have five books of his sayings and cartoons. One of them is titled: I May Not Be Totally Perfect, But Parts Of Me Are Excellent. ;-) Jack

FROM EMT SINGS IN MI: Just had to tell you how much I also enjoy A.B. Besides the book you mentioned I also have Appreciate Me Now and Avoid The Rush. I just opened that book up to P.55 read "There has been so much concern about what might happen that what's actually happening has passed almost unnoticed." Ain't it the truth?

FROM THRIVENT TOM: I like this one. I'm sure that God has designed the plot, but I'm with you about the superb cast!

FROM D.S. IN MI: I love the title of that book.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Had my arm in a cast once.

FROM M.L. IN IL: this quote is particularly meaningful to me this week...month...year. many changes that have challenged my libran balance. i'm still standing-haven't fallen yet! JACK'S RESPONSE: Evidently, your birthday makes you a Libra.
Traits of a Libra:
Desires popularity
Loves art
Neat
Dresses up for the occassion
Slight perfectionist
Narcisstic
Charitable
Bossy at times
Plans ahead
Attention to detail
Loves public service
Likes...
Beauty
Gifts
Debates
Attention
Intellectual conversations
Admiration
Credit cards
Mingling
Subtle colours, textures
Haute Coutoure
Dislikes...
Noise
Confusion
Sloppiness
Ugliness
Dirt
Pressured decisions
Being rushed
Criticism

FROM CJL IN OH: great. good to remember the good & revise the bad

Jack’s Winning Words 10/20/08
“You can observe a lot just by watching.” (Yogi Berra) People tend to make fun of Yogi-isms, and today’s quote is one of them. But what he says here makes sense. Watching and observing are not the same, just as reading and understanding are not the same. Watching TV is not the same as comprehending the message, for good or bad. I encourage you to be a good observer of what’s happening around you. You can learn a lot by just observing. ;-) Jack

FROM N.L. IN INDY: I LEARNED WHAT I KNOW FROM WATCHING AND LISTENING.! LOOK AT WHAT I LEARNED.

FROM EMT SINGS IN MI: One of my "official" titles is "amateur writer and observer of the human scene". I cannot agree with you more! (As usual)

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Watch what you observe!

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Observation is a gift most people don't use. I can't tell you the number of times when us kids would sit on the banks of the AuSable River people watching. Some were intent on just getting their trip finished, some spent the whole trip trying to control their canoes, some too drunk to care, some playing Indians, some racing each other, some intent on tipping everyone, some just goofing around and a very few...just a few, actually enjoying the wonderful sights on the river. Each canoe would pass the same stuff...beavers, minks, muskrats, Great Blue Hurons, deer, rainbow trout, water snakes, brown trout...but only the silent observer really saw the wonder! MORE: I tend to observe a lot. The last 4 weeks I have been out each morning, noon and evening observing my three praying mantis. One's about 5 1/2 inches long, with a brown back...she's the biggest. One is a beautiful lime green, the second biggest and one I call "Inj" because she's injured. She is out a lot on our deck. Sometimes "Greeny" comes up there too but I have never seen the "Queenie" up there. Each day they are out and I must admit, I can't believe one hasn't eaten the other. Interesting to because Inj has been on the same bush as Queenie...who is the bigger. Somewhere there has to be an egg sack or two but I have been unable to find one. They keep me busy and each day I can't wait to get out there too see them. They live about a year and I have no idea where they spend winter. I have been trying to find more information on them. I just find the general information o n the internet I already know. Maybe I will ask for a book on them for Christmas! I have been good!

FROM M.L. IN IL: i learn the art of observing each day by watching three year olds. their power of observation is unparalleled!

Jack’s Winning Words 10/17/08
“You lose, you smile, and you come back the next day. You win, you smile, and you come back the next day.” (Ken Griffey, Jr) Junior is one of my favorite ball players. But his quote isn’t about baseball, it’s about life and how we deal with the ups and downs that come to all of us. Today, I’m putting on the blog (click below), part of an essay by a favorite writer of mine, Harry Golden. I hope you have time to read it. ;-) Jack

FOLLOW UP FROM JACK: The Show Must Go On (Harry Golden) I am indebted to Dr. Frank Kingdon for my interest in the poetry of Sir Rabindranath Tagore. The great Hindu poet tells us a story in exquisite poetry. His servant did not come in on time. Like so many philosophers and poets, Tagore was helpless when it came to the less important things in life, his personal wants, his clothes, his breakfast, and tidying up the place. An hour went by and Tagore was getting madder by the minute. He thought of all sorts of punishments for the man. Three hours later Togore no longer thought of punishment. He’d discharge the man without any further ado. It was midday. Without a word the servant proceeded with his duties as though nothing had happened. He picked up his master’s clothes, set to making breakfast, and started cleaning up. Tagore watched this performance with mounting rage. Finally he said it: “Drop everything, and get out.”
The man, however, continued sweeping and after another few moments, with quiet dignity he said: “My little girl died last night.”
The show must go on.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Quite a story....sad on many parts....both on a man's inability to take care of even the basic in his life, and of another man's choice to continue with his job even with the lose of his child. But, life is like that isn't it? We still get out of bed, still eat to stay alive, still work, still proceed with life. It's your attitude about what does happen everyday...whether normal or tragic or happy or sad. Us Christian's rely on God's blessings, mercy, grace and love to get us through...hopefully with a smile. But if not, He still gets us through. They're good Winning Words....I will smile today and tomorrow!

FROM MOLINER J.T.: Yes, Jack, the show must go on !!

FROM M.T. IN PA: Yes, indeed! I never put it so succinctly, but being a good-natured stoic has gotten me through some tough times. I read the essay snippet, too. You may recall that the sculpture I did in a library was called "Thoughts on Wings". The title came from a song that a college friend of mine wrote, the inspiration for which he credited to Rabindranath Tagore.

FROM R.M. IN MI: The message came thru today and was great. I look forward to this everyday. Starts me out on the right foot. Am trying to smile as I send this.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Some people winn all of the time and some people lose all of the time but all people don't smile all of the time/ Abe Froelich

Jack’s Winning Words 10/16/08
“Either you run the day, or the day runs you.” (Jim Rohn) Rohn is an entrepreneur and motivational speaker. He was over his head in debt at age 25 and a millionaire by age 31. His “way” is not for everyone, but I agree with today’s quote. It works to begin each day with a positive attitude. Negativism has a way of feeding upon itself. Don’t let today run you. There’s nothing that God and you can’t handle together. ;-) Jack

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: My days sometimes do run away with me trailing far behind to catch up....but I do try to rein them in sometimes successfully sometimes not, but I don't let them take completely over....most of the time. How's that for a politically correct answer!!!

FROM MOLINER G.S.: In helicopter flight school, it was, "Either you fly the chopper, or it flys you." It was a tremendous help.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Glad you ran that past me. Good, positive advice. CARPE DIEM !

FROM M.L. IN IL: well, i have to believe that god is with me and she will be by my side and we can do anything together in the next few days. we sold our house on friday, closed on tuesday, and are moving tomorrow. we bought a house on the lake. three blocks can seem like a long way after 14 years in a roomy victorian! pray for me...seriously...pray for me.

FROM EMT SING IN MI: My take on three answers to prayer is this: Yes, No or I have better plans for you.

FROM I.D. IN MI: Long time ago, i decided to dedicate my life for serving God and I'll try to do everything possible to be a good servant.

FROM PR P.H. IN MN: what about when the day runs over you?

Jack’s Winning Words 1015/08
“The only time my prayers are never answered in on the golf course.” (Billy Graham) When I was teaching young people about prayer, I said that God always answers prayer in three possible ways: Yes, No, and we’ll wait and see. The skeptic might say that it’s a cop-out. Believers have told me that it’s worked for them. What prayer experiences have you had? ;-) Jack

FROM PR J.S.IN MI: I don't think that God has ever said "Yes" "No" or "Wait and see" to me. I think God takes our prayers in and directs our hearts and thoughts toward the answer that has already been given in his Word. That's why that word is so critical and what the liberals are doing to it is a crime. Look at the Lord's Prayer. God isn't listening to give those types of answers. God directs us to the Kingdom of God and its importance for our lives. God directs us to see that everyone needs daily bread and we are to be the persons who make certain that it happens. God directs us toward a forgiving and honest lifestyle. God directs us to see that we are weak and need to avoid temptations but while in them to look to the Lord for a way out. However, I have never experienced God to say "Yes" to me in any fashion at all. REPLY FROM JACK: Here I stand.

FROM K.B. IN MI: Don't we always have to remind folks that no or maybe is an answer just like yes--but much harder to hear. REPLY FROM JACK: Children don't like to hear their parents say, NO or MAYBE, either.

FROM MKH IN MI: I often say its a good thing I don't have a gun on the golf course or I would kill myself. I play with a bunch of WB cops and I have asked them if they are carrying so I can put myself out of misery! Why do we love that game? REPLY FROM JACK: Maybe it's because you're seeking that hole in one. And...children shouldn't play with guns!

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: My prayer results have mostly been "yes" but not often arriving in the manner that I expected. Also, does wishful thinking count as prayer? Countless times I've thought about good things I hoped to attain at some future time, only to have it happen unexpectedly early. The Lord is in charge. REPLY FROM JACK: I agree, and, incidentally, will it do the Red Sox any good to pray that they can beat the "Devil" Rays? MORE FROM R.I.: No...God doesn't jump in and come to the rescue in matters where the needy can handle matters on their own. As for Boston teams and Boston fans, it's the blind leading the blind. MORE:
Boston sports fans are like no other creatures on earth. Civility, admiration for accomplishment, sportsmanship, competitiveness, the high road, are all things that too many Boston fans are oblivious to. All they want is to win, at any cost. An easy win against a bum team elates the fans here, like it was some great accomplishment. And win or lose, there is a complement of macho airheads who go out and destroy the Fenway, as if that is bravura celebrating. The Green Monster, Fenway Park, isn't the ugly image in Boston sports...it's that bottom stratum of asinine fans who go there. (OK, now off my soap box.)

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Only God knows how He answers prayers but He has never failed to stand by my side...no matter what I need....or don't need.

FROM G.M. IN MI: Jack I will let you know after the 4th of November

FROM I.D. IN MI: God always answers my prayers. It's just a matter of patience time and faith. In my life He did many miracles and I'm really relying on Him. We can't say that prayers it just words,It's a divine personal dialog with your creator that will always have good conclusion at the end.

Jack’s Winning Words 10/14/08
“There are disillusioned people who have three sneers for everything and three cheers for nothing.” (E. Stanley Jones) This a paraphrase from his book, Abundant Living. He seems to be saying that we should be more positive in our thinking, and that too many people are living by a NO when they ought to be living by a YES. This is particularly true when trying to follow God’s direction. ;-) Cheerleader Jack

FROM OPTIMIST P.L.: I just came back from our KH Optimist meeting and noticed the sign on the Church next to Roosevelt School, On one side of the sign it read: "Good without God equals nothing." It really made me think. Does the Pasteur really believe that doing good in this world means absolutely nothing unless that person believes in God? So, if an atheist pulls someone out of a fire and a believer does the same act, the only person who really did good was the one who believed in God. I wonder what your take on this is. RESPONSE FROM JACK: My first response: That's a clever sign. My relective response: I think that you are right My theological response: The sign doesn't say anything about believing in God. G-d, to many people, is the source of all being, and the ultimate source of all that is good. To remove G-d from good, does result in nothing. Just because the atheist denies a god does not eliminate G-d. The agnostic is probably more honest when he says, "I don't know." The words of this hymn speak to the subject at hand.
God moves in a mysterious way,
His wonders to perform;
He plants his footsteps in the sea,
And rides upon the storm.
Deep in unfathomable mines
Of never failing skill,
He treasures up his bright designs,
And works his sovereign will.
Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, (Someone, by mistake, once sang SAINTS instead of SENSE. That could be true.)
But trust him for his grace;
Behind a frowning providence,
He hides a smiling face.
Blind unbelief is sure to err,
And scan his work in vain;
God is his own interpreter,
And he will make it plain.
William Cowper (1731-1800) was a British poet and hymnist. He struggled throughout his life with depression, doubts, and fears.

FROM P.O. IN MI: And a hearty "AMEN!" from Cheerleader Pat.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Some of the people sneer all of the time, and all of the people sneer some of the time, but all of the people do not cheer all of the time, Abe Lipkoowitz

FROM PR F.M. IN WI: Your quote today reminds me of the pastor who confirmed me . . . he quoted in almost every sermon from E. Stanley Jones. Thanks for sharing. I don't have a copy of the book, ABUNDANT LIVING.

Jack’s Winning Words 10/13/08
“If you have a dollar bill in your pocket and you don’t owe anybody any money, you’re a rich man.” (Hymie Bloom’s father) This is a quote that comes out of The Great Depression and could apply to today’s economic crisis, as well. Maybe it would be good for us to think about what it is that really makes us rich. I’ve quoted this hymn before, but it bears repeating. “Count your many blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you, what the Lord has done.” ;-) Jack

FROM MOLINER G.S.: I used to teach personal finance. If you had any money in your pocket you were in the top 8% of the people in the world. It's probably the top 15% today. Might be back to 8% if the financial crisis keeps going on.

FROM GOOD DEBT JON: With Federal Reserve Intervention since 1913, if you have a dollar in your pocket and don’t owe anybody, you have thirteen cents worth of buying power. Imagine shares of a company you own and the management keeps printing stock certificates without adding value to the company. Your shares would be worth less (or worthless eventually) this is where we are with the Fed. The government pays back what it borrows from (T-bills) you with debased dollars. And they pay the debased money with tax dollars from you. What a system. MORE: I knew that a quote with "dollar" in it would get your attention.
Today's question was this....What is it that really makes us rich? You've dealt with that question before in your life. I think that you know the answer.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Most of us know what makes us really rich....and we do count our blessings each morning and evening. We thank God for our many blessings...both the ones we are aware of and the ones we aren't aware of but are most important. Thank you for reminding us to remember them! REPLY: I would change that to "MANY of us know...."

FROM PR F.M. IN WI: Or, the other old one . . . "I complained about not having any shoes, until I met a man who didn't have any feet! "

FROM MOLINER C.F.: For a person of true faith, is there anything the Lord has done that should surprise us?

FROM MOLINER CROC: You`re right on there , Jack. We all sure have many, many blessings. One of them is that we live here in the U.S.A.

Jack’s Winning Words 10/10/08
“In nature there are few sharp lines.” (A.R. Ammons) I try not to draw sharp lines in my dealings with people, either. Maybe that’s why the strident tone of today’s political and religious “debates” is not appealing to me. Lucy might call me, wishy washy, but that’s all right. I have a sign on my desk which reads: “I live in my own little world, but it’s OK; they know me here.” ;-) Jack

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: So you are old "Wishy Washy Jack Freed"....well, Charlie Brown is one of my favorite guys so not all wishy washy folks are all bad.....however, my favorite has to be Snoopy...and sometimes he bites

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: Re Ammons quote, my father said it this way: "Straight is the line of duty...curved is the line of beauty." By the way, thanks for sharing your "own little world" with the rest of us. REPLY: I still have the french curve that I used when I was drafting.

FROM P.O. IN MI: Amen re the 'debates' --- and your sign fits me exactly!

FROM B.M. IN MI: I have a tee shirt that says those very words! We think alike.

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: Wow, I can't imagine the determination that gent had. life is amazing MORE: actually if you ask a physicist, nature does have sharp lines of delieniation. ( rules of the road ), and medicine, try a blood transfussion today.

FROM CJL IN OH: You're also safe there...

FROM MOLINER J.T.: I also am not happy with the "tone".

FROM J.L. IN MI: Nature may not have any straight lines, but when she feels like it, her wrath is awesome. I wouldn't just call it a strident tone, bitter and downright hate-filled. It's shameful. However, I was reading about the Lincoln/Douglas "debates" and few things have changed. I also live in my own little world.

Jack’s Winning Words 10/9/08
“Life consists in not holding good cards, but in playing well with those you hold.” (R.I. in Boston read this in a fortune cookie) My mother was a very good bridge player. Old Maid was my game. In my life I’ve met some people who’ve done an excellent job of living life with a hand of bad cards. They have impressed me. I think of the minister, with no arms, who painted his own house. ;-) Jack

FROM S.H. IN MI: How did he do that, Pastor Freed? This is the question of the day and I hope you will enlighten me regarding this minister's ingenuity. It is truly remarkable!!!!!!!
REPLY: He stood on one foot and held the paint brush with his other foot.

FROM B.G. IN MI: Important WW for today. REPLY: Paul Yedweb, rabbi at Temple Israel in WB, will deliver a Yom Kippur sermon to 5000 members. "How To Increase The Value Of Your Home." He will stress the importance of developing family values and spending less time concentrating on economic values. There was more.....reported in an interview with Paul in this morning's newspaper. Paul is a leader in the Jewish Reorm movement and has rewritten many of the Jewish prayers, using gender inclusive terminology. His work is widely used in Reform synagogues. He is a member of the WB Clergy Assn.

FROM MKH IN MI: Reading medical reports every day makes me acutely aware of my blessing acutely aware and thankful!!

FROM MOLINER C.F.: AND KNOWING WHEN TO FOLD 'EM. REPLY: And when to hold 'em.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: "You gotta ta know when to hold em, when to fold them, when to walk away and know when to run, you never count your money when you're sitting at the table....every hand's a winner and every hand's a loser....." Cards play a big part in our family. Aunt Sauce is a Life Master and pinochle is the favorite game...even the little ones know how to play. But the cards of life have dealt my sister a stacked deck....she has faced so many problems in her life, an unfaithful spouse, divorce, the death of her only son, Lymes Disease which caused a stroke and many other health problem. But she has a great faith and has managed to live a wonderful blessed life. God has helped her through each on-going trial. She has been and will always be one of my heroes!

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: I enjoyed seeing the fortune cookie philosophy in your WW distribution. What I enjoyed more was seeing that you played Old Maid, the only card game that gave me a good time.

Jack’s Winning Words 10/8/08
“Nothing but heaven itself is better than a friend who is really a friend.” (Plautus) Not much is known of this Roman dramatist who lived in the 4th century BCE. I wasn’t even able to find out if he had a friend. I read yesterday of a woman who always did her banking with the same teller. She considered the teller to be her best friend, and the teller didn’t even know it. What are your thoughts on having a friend? ;-) Jack

FROM P.O. IN MI: My friends are my truest riches. Tomorrow I'll be having lunch with a woman I met the first day of kindergarten.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Both of my best friends came from our church. I have a lot of friends, ie.... people who I know I could call on in a moments notice for anything. That's what true friends are. But my bestest friend is my husband.

FROM MOLINER J.T.: I am Blessed to have many friends. Someone whom I can call on at any time for any reason, and they can always call on me.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: That's probably the base thought for "Thank Heaven for good freinds"

FROM C.L. IN MI: I just wish I had more friends like you. Thanks for being YOU.

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: I have a lot of acquaintances....man friends....and people that I love from my toes to the pate of my head....the first are in the "I/It" category and the latter in the I/Thou category....friends are special and in the in-between category. Friends make the world special....Loved ones make it incredible

FROM CWR IN B'MORE: .....I do have one. Thanks for being it.

FROM CJL IN OH: it's a person you can count on even if you don't see them for long periods of time.
It's one you can say what you need/want to say without having to worry.
It's one you know is there. It's necessary when you live alone. It makes you feel complete!

FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: what a sad lady that must have been. I have SO many good friends and I don’t know how one can survive without them. They are there for me to cry with, to laugh with, to bring up stories of Clem—some friends that we had 48 years ago just called and wanted to get together. They are from Iowa City. They were just shocked to hear about Clem. They would have found out with my Christmas letter. I am getting many cards from my Gustie friends as they hear about Clem. They all help me go thru this terrible adjustment without Clem. And so do you!

FROM J.O. IN MI: I cringe when someone says "we treat you like family". I have learned that being treated like family is not always a good thing. I prefer to be treated like a good friend because one can choose his/her friends, while family tends to leverage familial responsibility to your detriment. Is that mean?

Jack’s Winning Words 10/7/08
“Right is right, even if everyone is against it; and wrong is wrong, even if everyone is for it.” (Wm. Penn) This “oatmeal man” championed freedom of conscience. He was also an idealist and believed that utopia was possible. Pennsylvania was established as a model place for godly, virtuous and exemplary people. Are you an idealist? Do you believe that utopia is possible? Do you eat oatmeal? ;-) Jack.

FROM THRIVENT TOM: I do eat oatmeal - though not always by choice! I suppose Mary gets up early to prepare your oatmeal. RESPONSE: Nope.

FROM MOLINER G.S.: Appropriate for this campaign.

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: Yes. No. Yes.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Yes, yes, and yes!

FROM MARLYS IN MN: I am an idealist—but I don’t eat oatmeal unless it is in cookies or bread! Ha!

FROM EMT SINGS IN MI: Yes, maybe, and yes.

FROM CJL IN OH: Yes, No, No

FROM CWR IN B'MORE: ......yes to all three. In fact, I studied for 8 years in PENNSYLVANIA.

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: "Right is right....well, maybe....depending upon the situation....and we have to think of the conditions that might have caused him to do that....and well, right is sometimes right"

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Some of the peop;e are right all of the time and some of the people are wrong all of the time, but all of the people can't be right or wrong all of the time. Abe Bernstein

FROM PR F.M. IN WI: I believe I am a idealists - and I eat Rice Krispie, but drive a VW Bug.

FROM A.McC. IN MI: I am an old idealist. How are we defining Utopia. It is probably not of this earth anyway. I enjoy and eat oatmeal. And I believe we must do the right thing. When we boil decisions down to this, they seem easier to make or is that a function of being old. I chat with the grandchildren about doing the right thing. With their diverse personalities and religious upbringing, they all seem to understand this.

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: I don't think utopia is possible except to some very dedicated people. There is too much greed in this world. And as Monty used to sing,"If you want to be happy and live a king's life, never make a pretty woman your wife", especially a blond among Italians. I am not pointing fingers at people of Italian decent, it's just that the contrast between blonds and brunetts is just too, ya, ya, too, o.k. contrasting and guys with visions of things othr than sugar plums go wild. Incidently, oatmeal is delicious and it helps lower cholesterol, but if you have gout, forget oatmeal. even the ( the people who use horses instead of tractors ) have defectors in their midst. also,there is that saying, " it's greener on the other side of the fence", and my Pa used to say, "lead me not into temptation"., My Ma used to say, "just look the other way"

Jack’s Winning Words 10/6/08
“Nearly all the best things that came to me in life have been unexpected, unplanned by me.” (Carl Sandburg) In my mind, I tested out Sandburg’s statement. In my case, it has also been true. Some would call it accidental; others might say that it is because of choices that we have made; and still others see it as the hand of God. I happen to think that it’s a combination of the three. How about you? ;-) Jack

FROM P.O IN MI:Oh yes --- all three!

FROM EMT SINGS IN MI: I think that our choices influence many of the things that happen to us. Several times I have felt that I could not think of anything to do about a situation, and along comes an option that I never would have thought of and it worked. I have credited the hand of God. And the many things that seem to be "coincidence"? As my son tells me "you do not rationalize, you recognize".

FROM MOLINER C.F.: So much for planning ahead. MORE: Serendipity just happens.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: I also believe the best things in life happen for a reason....some accidential, some choices and some by the hand of God. The worst things that happen in life prepare you for the things to come. I have also been thinking a lot lately of all the "bad" things; the rough spots in my life so to speak and I have always come out better than I was before they happened. Life is like that though isn't it? The rough times get us ready for the better times and make them sweeter....even at the end of our lives.

FROM PR F.M. IN WI: The best things have come my way in the ways you cite - plus one important one - many of the best things have come my way because of friends and lay people and brother pastors.

Jack’s Winning Words 10/3/08
“Just living is not enough…One must have sunshine, freedom and a little flower.” (Hans Christian Andersen) HCA is one of my favorites, and this quote is an example of why. Among his fairy tales, I liked The Emperor’s New Suit, which could well be a commentary on today’s political scene. See if you can find a little flower to put by your computer….and enjoy looking at it. ;-) Jack

FROM SOMEONE IN MI: When I was first divorced, I always kept a fresh bunch of those inexpensive flowers from the grocery store on the table in the entry area (it wasn't large or grand enough to be called a foyer). It was the first thing I saw when I came in the door, and was a sign from me to me that everything would be OK --- and it's now more than OK! I, too, like HCA.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Flowers are wondrtful. Take time to smell them.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: It reminds me of a quote by Anne Frank...I'm sur eyou will know it!!! I have a little flower in my mind and I will ponder it all day and think of all the fairy tales in my life! Blessings

FROM MOLINER G.S.: My little flower is one of my grandson's standing next to me as I reply to this.He learned how to make a bed from my wife. I told him that in the Army boot camp I had to make a quarter bounce 4" off the blanket before the DI would approve the bed-making.

Jack’s Winning Words 10/2/08
“We could certainly slow the aging process down if it had to work its way through Congress.” (Will Rogers) I wonder what Will would say about Congress today? One of our favorite stage musicals was Will Rogers’ Follies, which Mary and I saw in NYC, thanks to David and Sunny. We were younger, then. ;-) Jack

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: I've never heard of WILL ROGERS FOLLIES....it sounds like it would be great. I have always been a great fan of Will Rogers....an authentic American. He could have had a lot of fun at the expense of this Congress and this President.

FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Seems like they are speeding the age process up with the bail out package. If it were a movie it would be called "Porkies 2" I am hoping the House will again reject this nonsense.

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: And the remarkable thing about it is that Congress's slow, deliberate, specific procedure delivers so many bad decisions.

FROM MOLINER G.S.: There are a few things that never change - this is one of them.

FROM MOLINER LIZ: Good morning. Why did Congress wait till this disaster happened before trying to fix it? Those on banking and finance committees should have known better-- Chris Dodd, Barney Frank-- where were these folks??? Not to mention Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson and Ben Bernanke! I would like to see some resignations, and some investigations.

FROM CJL IN OH: "God gives us memories so that we can have roses in December" Good to always remember!

FROM F.M. IN WI: What an approiapate word for this week - but I feel the aging process won't even stop for congress!

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Loved this one! It made me laugh hard! Congress is after all, a committee of people and you know how committees work! Will would have something witty to say about Congress today, I just don't have any idea what it would be!

FROM A.J. IN MI: The one thing that cheers me is that whoever is President, He will not get much done because of Congress.

Jack’s Winning Words 10/1/08
“Which of these two is the happiest—he who labors without ceasing and only obtains enough to live on, or he who rests in comfort and finds all that he needs in the pleasure of hunting and fishing?" (Micmac Indian Chief) The chief was commenting on European settlers trying to change the native’s way of life to their own. The quote was sent to me by my grandson, Jason, and I thought it was appropriate for the first day of the bow-hunting season in Michigan. ;-) Jack

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Very wise Indian Chief! We get so caught up with the working world, we forget God will supply us with all we need. And, we also have all we need of the deer.... :-) The deer population out here is staggering. Thank you Jason for the Winning Words today! MORE FROM JUDY: the first ones to try to change the Indian's way of life were the priests. FROM JACK: Not Lutheran pastors.

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: I am tired of Either/Or type of thinking. I am a Both/And tyype of per person....depending, of course, on the alternatives. Too much Either/Or thinking puts us in a straitjacket in which we do not need to reside.

FROM SDG IN TAMPA: That is interesting but it is not life in modern Florida. Since the courts gave the Indians the right to operate casinos, each Seminole today is given 120,000 dollars each year from the profits. What goes around comes around. I personally cannot believe that so many Americans these days get such enjoyment from gambling. JACK'S REPLY: 3 casinos in Detroit and 1 across the river in Canada. Back in the 16th century, an English farmer, Thomas Tusser, said: "A fool and his money are soon parted."
The question that started the casino proliferation....How do we lift the Indians from oppressing poverty?...And secondly, Are the Indians bound by the laws of the white man?...And thirdly, Is this the payment for the land that was their's? Ah, There's the rub. I have a problem with "the courts gave." The courts are our system to "interpret" the law. Is there a better alternative?

FROM MOLINER C.F.: The happiest pepole I know are those who work but take time off to hunt and fish. So, I guess that's a third choice for your question.

FROM CHARLIE IN B'MORE: ..... good one.

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: I wonder what this Chief would have said had he known those "whities" brought death and destruction to his people via: measels, mumps, scarlet fever, T.B, gonerrrhea, etc. I kidded my son in law one time to mowing down deer with a hugh cannon, instead of using a bow and arrow. He did in fact use a bow and arrow. i.e., he did give some of the deer a fighting chance. B ob, p.s. I couldn't hit the broad side of a barn, I still don't know how I got a medal for shooting when in the army. I oiled up my rifle too much, so every shot I took,spray oil on my glasses so I couldn't see, so I took off my glasses and fired anyway, and got the medal. You figure. It meant $5.00 extra in pay each month. Yea baby,ice cream, & gas for my Model A.