Winning Words 2/27/09
“One ought, every day at least, to hear a little song, read a good poem, see a fine picture, and, if possible, to speak a few reasonable words.” (Goethe—Thanks to J.K. for send this to me) Wolfgang suggests doing four things each day. Today, I’m making a list. After I send WWs, I plan to cross off #4. A Sousa march will be #1; something by Carl Sandburg; for #3; I’ll probably pull up the DIA website and see what interests me. Why not make your own list. Goethe would like that. ;-) Jack

FROM M.L. IN IL: welcome to the world of a preschool teacher. i am blessed with these things each day. it's a wonderful life.

FROM A.S. IN MI: I'll hear a bit of John Denver ,read a little Carl Sandburg , walk around my own gallery and appreciate Claudias art work and send a little message to Jack FREED!

FROM MOLINER C.F.: And hug your kids.

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: Are you familiar with Sandburg's "Limited"?LIMITED by Carl SandburgI am riding on a limited express, one of the crack trains of the nation.Hurtling across the prairie into blue haze and dark air go fifteen all-steel coaches holding a thousand people.(All the coaches shall be scrap and rust and all the men and women laughing in the diners and sleepers shall pass to ashes.)I ask a man in the smoker where he is going and he answers: "Omaha."It's one of my favorites. JACK'S REPLY: Mine, too. Also, "Grass." It has the same theme.

FROM BBC IN IL: I'm reading Goethe now - my first one - and enjoying it so much.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Very good words. I usually make a mental list of what I would like to do each day...most days I accomplish what I start out to do....and these are easy words. I am reading the Old Testament for Lent. I am intrigued by those wonderful old words from God. It's on my list each day.

FROM A.W. IN IL: I would add: find something funny, and share a smile.

Winning Words 2/26/09
“Always look at what you have left. Never look at what you have lost.” (Robert Schuller) I generally agree with the thought of this quote. However, I get a bit nervous when I see the words, “always” and “never,” because I want some wiggle-room. I agree that there’s a need for some qualifiers. Maybe you can give some suggestions. R.S.’s basic point is that we need to look ahead, rather that look back. I like that. ;-) Jack

FROM L.K. IN OH: I agree with you........did Jesus offer much "wiggle room" on things? Yes, we can wiggle toward kindness, right? REPLY FROM JACK: He can put himself in my shoes, but I can't put myself in his shoes.

FROM M.L. IN IL: how about..."look at what you have left when you're looking at what you have lost". life is a balance. welcome to the daily life of a libra!

FROM CJL IN OH: I guess he is "always" looking at the bright side. I don't trust that either. Remember that those who forget their past are bound to relive it. Nevertheless,. looking forward is the direction to look!

FROM MOLINER C.F.: If you are on the right track, the only way you can look is forward. Don't know that I've ever seen a train engineer look back. And he alwys seems to get where he's going. Don't get nervous, Jack. Sometimes "always" is the right word.

FROM M.N. IN MN: I do agree that we have to look forward, but I can't do it without remembering what (or in my case "who") I have lost. Sometimes I suppose I remember too much--like last night. Our final hymn was Abide With Me and I couldn't sing it. I had to bite my lip. I finally did put my head up and sing the last stanza anyhow with the tears rolling down my cheeks. And I thought I was doing so well!

FROM S.G. IN TAMPA: As a former history teacher, we certainly should learn from the past but remain optimistic about what is to come. The best is yet to come. MORE FROM S.G.: Carpe diem.

FROM M.E. IN NEWPORT BEACH: Focus on what you have left. Learn but do not drown in what you have lost. MCE. My first was to say Learn but do not weep from what you have lost, but that too, is not necessarily healthy or realistic. Today I will copy your e-mail to some friends from Wisconsin who are visiting and with whom we have remained close since 1963.

FROM D.S. IN SAN DIEGO: That's an interesting one, Jack, in view of how most of our financial conditions have become, like our 101K.Perhaps just the addition/change of a word or two would be that qualifier...... "Always consider what you have left. Never consider what you have lost". But then, it is not as dramatic, is it? Also very hard for most of us to do.

FROM SNOWBIRD F.M. IN AL: I have just finished reading " The Shack", by William Young. There are some interesting comments in it about the past, the future and the present - with an emphasis on not dwelling too much on the past or the future. Very interesting reading.

FROM A FRIEND IN IL: The Episcopal priest who married my wife and me advised us, during our pre-marital meetings, that we should never use the word "always" in our disagreements. We never forgot it and made it work. So your WW today has special meaning for me.

FROM J.T. IN MI: I agree with you. If you never look back think of the memories you will have missed. Is it worth that?

Winning Words 2/25/09
“The one who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.” (Chinese Proverb) A reader of WWs suggests that he needs more of the positive proverbs. As a follow up to yesterday’s quote on the value of self-discipline, I’ve chosen this one on the value of persistence. Most of us who want to remove a mountain, first look for a bulldozer. The small-stone-idea seems to be positively more realistic. ;-) Jack

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: Actually, nuclear warheads would probably remove it more quickly.....but there are some nasty side-effects!!!-----

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Failure is for quiters.

FROM N.L. IN FLORIDA: Sorry about all the snow you have been getting this year including the new ice bergs on the great lakes.

FROM G.C. IN SAN DIEGO: May you and Mary have a positive and blessed Ash Wed!

FROM A.W. IN IL: better yet.....hire someone! FROM JACK: They're probably busy working on their own mountain.

Winning Words 2/24/09
“In reading the lives of great men, I found that the first victory they won was over themselves…Self-Discipline.” (Harry Truman) Mardi Gras is the day before Lent, the season of self-discipline. Some religious folk discipline themselves for 40-days during Lent to give up that which they think is bad for them. Truman says that people who are great can discipline themselves beyond that 40-day period. Is there something that you want to give up? Why not make tomorrow your starting point? Or today? ;-) Jack

FROM E.M. IN MI: I'm thinking I may give up the "boob tube" and take a t.v. fast - too muchnegativity and a big time drainer for me.

FROM J.C. IN HONG KONG: Hahaha, what a lame explanantion of Lent!! REPLY FROM JACK: Speaking of lame, 1Ki 18:21 And Eli'jah came near to all the people, and said, "How long will you go limping with two different opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him; but if Ba'al, then follow him." And the people did not answer him a word. It sounds as if you are limping along with a second opinion.

FROM B.G. IN MI: I am considering giving up Lent for Lent this year!

FROM MOLINER C.F.: A little trick might be to tell yourself you started yesterday. Then, you are already in your second day and the habit is on it's way.

FROM G.F. IN MI: I especially like this one and will add it to my leadership file!

FROM CJL IN OH: Why not ADD something to your life, such as Practice mercy instead of demanding justice, Tell the truth, Clean up after yourself, Be early, Tip big, Attend a church where everyone doesn't look like you. Suggestions by a Plain Dealer columnist Regina Brett JACK'S REPLY: In fact, I made that suggestion to someone today. Instead of just giving up TV, substitute reading a good book or listening to some great music. Don't just give up something negative; add something positive.

FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I’m not sure I have made 40 consecutive days yet. You mean there’s more? REPLY FROM JACK: You've heard of the postage stamp that's still good in spite of rate increases? It's called The Forever Stamp. How about Forever Lent?

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: I find that Spirit Discipline works better than Self Discipline since my "self" loves too many things that in the long run I should not like. The Spirit comes into play directs me through the word to rise above "self" and try to seek a better form of discipline. Self, however, does win now and then! Not good. FROM JACK: The Spirit is willing, but the self is weak. "Simul justus et peccator."

FROM L.P. IN MI: Interesting. For many years I have given up chocolate or ice-cream as a means of sacrifice or fasting. However, I always end up eating twice the amount of substitution foods every time a craving comes up. So much for discipline! Perhaps instead of giving up something this year I'll set a self-discipline goal ... like having the dishes done before bed each night ... hmm that's a good one. FROM JACK: Here's a good question. Why are you doing this stuff? MORE FROM L.P.: The "giving-up" was as a reminder of the sacrifice made in Christ's death. However, I remember a sermon at the campus ministry at WMU in which Pastor Suzy suggested that giving up a bad habit only to revive it on Easter was not a good celebration of the resurrection. So some years I've tried to make good habits. Somehow I find it easier to keep resolutions during Lent than say for New Years. I feel more guilty breaking a promise I made to God than one I made to myself.

FROM J.E. IN MI: Yes. I want to give up eating before bedtime and negativity. This quote reminds me of the “change” quote about knowing the difference between the things we can change and the things we cannot change. We can only change ourselves and how we look at things. As hard as we try, we cannot change others. I want to give up trying to change others and just work on myself. Thanks for listening

FROM SNOWBIRD F.M.: Just returned from the Marti Gras parade in Gulf Shores - one thing I readly give up is all the fooling around on this day by the masses here in the Mobile area. They have had many many parades, five or six today in Mobile - with the emphasis on beads, pies, cups, etc.

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: o.k. Jack, C hocolate, except on my birthday, or New Years Eve. Try me.

Winning Words 2/23/09
“Honesty is always the best policy.” (George Washington) This quote is from Washington’s Farewell Address in 1796. In a negative way, Mark Twain added, “…when there’s money it.” Diogenes, the Cynic, is said to have carried around a candle looking for an honest man. I’ve met some honest people in my life, without needing to carry a candle. Who are some of the honest people who come to your mind? Think about them as we observe the day after George’s birthday? ;-) Jack

FROM P.S. IN MI: Most people in my life are honest or they wouldn't be my friends.Must preach it to the Grand Kids! FROM JACK: Yds, it's one of those values that we must pass on, as it has been passed on to us.

JACK'S REPLY TO RESPONSE BY ANONYMOUS: When I was growing up, the Confession of Sins began in this way: "We poor miserable sinners, conceived and born in sin, with all our heart confess unto Thee, holy and righteous God, merciful Father, that we, in manifold ways during all our life, have offended against Thee. We have not loved Thee above all things, nor our neighbor as ourselves etc." It seems less strident today.

FROM L.P. IN IL: I am honest. Sometimes "too honest." Outspoken, I guess you'd call it. My dad is honest. My best friend is honest. FROM JACK: The Bible says that you're safe! Pro 12:22 Lying lips [are] abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly [are] his delight.

FROM N.G. IN MI: Either my Mother or the Minister I had when I was growing up added their view, "Honesty is the Only Policy".

FROM MOLINER C.F.: All of the people are honest some of the time and some of the people are honest all ofthe time, but all of the people are not honest all of the time. Honest Abe

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: My husband is the most honest man I know. I'd like to think I was but honestly, I know I fall short sometime. A white lie is still a lie. But I honestly do try to be as honest as I should be. Our family was brought up on honesty is the best and only way.

FROM SNOWBIRD F.M.: One name that comes to mind is Jimmy Carter . . . he made some mistakes in his presidency, but I always sensed he sought to be honest. A second, Herb Chilstrom!

Winning Words 2/20/09
“Three passions have governed my life: the longing for love, the search for knowledge and unbearable pity for the suffering of mankind.” (Bertrand Russell) Just because I’ve quoted him twice this week, does not necessarily mean that I’m passionate about Bertrand. But his list of passions is a good and simple one. Is there something that you are passionate about? ;-) Jack

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: If I remember correctly, I believe it was Camus who said, "A full life is to have planted a tree, written a book, and begotten a child." I'm passionate about all those three...still have one to accomplish.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: I am passionate about the well being of my offspring and her offspring. I want them to live in peace and harmony. (See. As promised, not a sungle typo)

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: My passions...to do God's will, the love of my family and friends, thankfulness!

FROM M.E. IN SO CALIF: Life.

FROM L.K. IN OH: What's your view of Bertrand's theology, not his philosophy? JACK'S REPLY: Our theology is probably based on our times. I think that he is unjustly criticized by people who don't put his thinking in the context of his times. His book, "Why I Am Not A Christian," has to be understood by looking at the Christians with whom he had contact. I might not be a Christian, except for those who influenced me along the way. I also think that theology and philosophy go together. I chose philosophy as a major, because I did not want the theology of a Christian institution (Augustana) to be the only influence on my religious thinking. I have not regretted that choice, but have continued to embrace it. The more I read of Russell's background, the more I have come to "understand" him, as if any of can be understood.

Winning Words 2/19/09
“The world is not yet exhausted; let me see something tomorrow which I never saw before.” (Samuel Johnson) Johnson lived in England three centuries ago. Think of what would amaze him in the world today. Even my grandparents would be amazed. Can you remember seeing something for the first time? The Grand Canyon comes to mind for me. ;-) Jack

FROM E.M. IN MI: My child being born is what I think of - we had a homebirth (it was planned)and I was right there for it. What a miracle!

FROM MOLINER G.S.: seeing my mom's doctor spank me as i came out of the womb

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: I remember seeing my baby girl for the first time....that was amazing to me

FROM INDY GENIE: New York City /Statue of Liberty from an airplane/17 years old......still takes my breath away! FROM JACK: That's a good one. I remember climbing inside of the Statue. When I looked out, maybe that was you flying in the airplane overhead. FROM GENIE: it might have been me.....did it look like i was singing "give my regards to broadway"? FROM JACK: Not only did it look like it, I could hear it.

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: My first flight in a jet plane taking off, watching the ground recede below. To this day, every time I take a flight, I have the same exciting experience as the plane races down the runway and leaves the earth below. FROM JACK: Flying excites me, too. I once remember flying in a glider. The swooping (almost like a bird) was like no other feeling I've ever experienced. It caused me to reach for The Bag and say to the pilot, "I think it's time to land." FROM R.I.: I know the feeling. Some years ago a friend who had taken up flying insisted I go for a short flight with him. He leased a single engine two-seater that, when up in the sky, felt like one of those little orange balls bobbing on top of a vertical jet of air. It only took about 15 minutes for me to feel my already eaten lunch begin to stir. He set the plane down soon enough that I didn't have "a George H. W. Bush-in-Japan" moment.

FROM B.M. IN MI: I asked my grandfather before he died in 1962 (age 84) what had amazed him most in his lifetime. He said, "airplanes, and that the average person could fly". We, of course, take things for granted which were unimaginable to previous generations. For me, on a personal level, watching the birth of our youngest daughter was more than an incredible experiance. On a different level, Niagara Falls and the Alps are two of many amazing natural wonders which I've seen. I do feel that there is something new to see or do every day. FROM JACK: You're right. There's something new every day. What will iy be today?

FROM S.G. IN TAMPA: Let me tell you about my experience with something new yesterday. Years ago we had visited the Seminole Village reservation on the other side of Tampa with a chickee, the women demonstrating their crafts, a building with animals like alligators,etc, a burial ground. Well. yesterday since my periodontist is on that side of Tampa, I decided to revisit. Now it is the Hard Rock Hotel, etc. After entering the building, I asked someone who looked official where the cultural part of the operation was. She said at the very end of the building. So, after walking through hundreds of slot machines and tables and getting lots of exercise, I found the Rainmaker. The Rainmaker is a tiny store with a few native crafts, like woven bags. While talking to the salesclerk, she said that some were from the Seminoles and some were from the Southwest Indians. The other phenomenen was all of the people smoking inside and outside the building. Cigarettes are sold taxfree on the reservations. The place was crowded. FROM JACK: Cough, cough!

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: the ground from the sky. i love to fly...especially in small planes and in my dreams. FROM JACK: I remember seeing the Broadway musical, Will Rogers' follies. One of the great songs was, "Let's go flying!" Do you know it?

FROM A.J. IN MI: My parents would be amazed! My father, a small town banker would be absolutely apalled at the goings on in this country right now;he was such a good and honorable man!

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Here's something you'll see tomorrow that you've never seen before. A response from me without typos. FROM JACK: Catch me; I'm fainting.

FROM C.L. IN CA: Wow that is so true, I recall seeing the Great Wall of China, the Kremlin, the Alps, the Vatican just so many things I have been blessed to see. Thanks for the memories

FROM FOXY ROXY: Niagara Falls comes to mind for me

FROM CJL IN OH: Most of the places I've travelled have one or more things I've seen for the "first" time.
To remind me, I've got a bunch of books with pictures.
That helps! Personally, I'm on overload!

Winning Words 2/18/09
“Money will buy a fine dog, but only kindness will make him wag his tail.” (Unknown) The nation’s Stimulus Plan might be a way to buy us out of our current economic dilemma. But hard times call for kindness, too. Let’s make it a point to be kind to someone today. It will be good for them; it will be good for us; it will be good for the world, too. ;-) Jack

FROM B.D. IN MI: Today's message is the hardest thing about my job, keeping employee's attitude going in the right direction. JACK' REPLY: In my hometown, there used to be a cigar store, Hickey Bros., which also sold newspapers, candy, gum, etc. They had a slogan, which was shown on their outdoor sign: "Your purchase FREE if we ever forget to Thank You." We always tried to catch them at forgetting, but they never did.

FROM S.H. IN MI: Since you mention kindness and the stimulus package and in the same Winning Words, I guess I'm trying to be kind to our politicians. No time to read all of the newspapers, so I get my main news take from the Lehrer show on PBS. Shields and Brook. Shields says the stimulus package contains all the things that really Barack Obama campaigned on. Brook says the Republicans felt they couldn't sign on because of the programs and how they are put together. When we have so many people without jobs, more and more getting without homes, more and more without any kind of health insurance, more and more having the stress of just laying around, doing nothing, more and more probably moving in with the relatives or else being out in the street, more and more just plain ill and sick, now it seems even more and more not even getting their income tax refunds (evidently in Kansas), probably we're going to have more and more communities without adequate number of policemen and firemen, what would it have taken for the current administration of Democrats to swallow their Democratic agenda and just use the huge stimulus package to work on infrastructure, goals both parties could agree upon--roads, bridges, hospitals, schools, the VA, actually that would have been an extreme kindness to us all. I wish the Democrats had been kinder to the Republicans and now realize that the ball is in the Republicans court and their job is to be kind to the Democrats and actively pray and work for the success of this stimulus package. Thank you for writing these Winning Words--there is no turning back, things that have been done have been done, whatever happens we must resolve within ourselves to be kind and spend our money in a kind way.

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: What is it that the Lord requires of us but to do justice, to love KINDNESS and to walk humbly with our God? Those three go hand in hand. To walk humbly with our God is to recognize that we are creatures and not the Creator. To be a creature of God is a great thing to be. And in that greatness we can find it possible to act with not only justice but with mercy or kindness toward our fellow creatures. When we think we are the creator, we deceive ourselves and denigrate those who are only creatures. JACK'S REPLY: Always the preacher.

FROM L.K. IN OH: If we had more consistent,enduring and thorough-going kindness among us all, maybe government wouldn't be called upon to prime so many pumps. Can money stimulate kindness, or merely compensate for lack of it? JACK'S REPLY:
I think of the song from CABARET
If you haven't any coal in the stove
And you freeze in the winter
And you curse on the wind
At your fate
When you haven't any shoes
On your feet
And your coat's thin as paper
And you look thirty pounds
Underweight.
When you go to get a word of advice
From the fat little pastor
He will tell you to love evermore.
But when hunger comes a rap,
Rat-a-tat, rat-a-tat at the window...
See how love flies out the door...
That clinking
Clanking sound of
Money money money money money money
Money money money money money money REPLY FROM L.K.: I've never thought money can buy love, rather that love can buy money AND use it kindly.

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: kindness goes a long way.................................... JACK'S REPLY: How do you teach kindness to the kiddies? (M.L. is pre-school teacher) FROM M.L.: well, funny you should ask. it was a topic of conversation this morning. we have an ending circle time before it is time to put coats on and get ready to go home. i use this opportunity to reflect upon the day. our motto is, "we are caring sharing loving peaceful people". my question today was about the caring part. they came up with all sorts of unkind/uncaring incidents. i suggested that whenever they feel the need to be unkind, they should stop and ask themselves a question. "what good can/will come from this?" it's the question i ask myself. then we make a promise to try to be more loving the next time we are together. the other way to teach kindness is to be kindness. i am so fortunate to have a staff of teachers who inderstand and practice kindness daily.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: This is the best way to describe what I think about your WW today...it's from Jewel... "Hands"If I could tell the world just one thingIt would be that we're all OKAnd not to worry 'cause worry is wastefulAnd useless in times like theseI won't be made uselessI won't be idle with despairI will gather myself around my faithFor light does the darkness most fearMy hands are small, I knowBut they're not yours, they are my ownBut they're not yours, they are my ownAnd I am never brokenPoverty stole your golden shoesIt didn't steal your laughterAnd heartache came to visit meBut I knew it wasn't ever afterWe'll fight, not out of spiteFor someone must stand up for what's right'Cause where there's a man who has no voiceThere ours shall go singingMy hands are small I knowBut they're not yours, they are my ownBut they're not yours, they are my ownI am never brokenIn the end only kindness mattersIn the end only kindness mattersI will get down on my knees, and I will prayI will get down on my knees, and I will prayI will get down on my knees, and I will prayMy hands are small I knowBut they're not yours, they are my ownBut they're not yours, they are my ownAnd I am never brokenMy hands are small I knowBut they're not yours, they are my ownBut they're not yours, they are my ownAnd I am never brokenWe are never brokenWe are God's eyesGod's handsGod's mindWe are God's eyesGod's handsGod's heartWe are God's eyesGod's handsGod's eyesWe are God's handsWe are God's hands

FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Money will buy a lot of “stuff” but only private companies can create real jobs. How can you create wealth by taking from pocket “A” of a taxpayer to add something (less a government overhead) to pocket “B” of a taxpayer? Everything government does is expense using money coercively taken from the very people it pretends to help. Worse yet, politicians don’t have the guts to “take” the money. They are borrowing it and slipping the bill to our children and grandchildren. At the worst part of the depression in 1933 we were leveraged 40 percent as a nation (debt equaled 40 percent of GDP). Before the last 2 trillion (2008) we borrowed we were leveraged 70 percent as a nation. I am all for kindness but not blindness. Kindness among the affected not towards the perpetrators. The stimulus plan is a Trojan Pig birthed by George Bush et al and now nursed to adulthood by Obama and company. Very Clintonesque for Obama to state there “are” no earmarks in the stimulus bill. Guess is depends on what your definition of “is” is. Only machine politics can pass an 1100 page bill without any member of The House or the Senate reading it. That is not representation that is dictatorship and deserves no kindness. JACK'S REPLY: As Olllie said to Stanley, "Well, here's another nice mess you've gotten me into."

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Be kind to your web-footed friends

FROM SNOWBIRD F.M.: AMEN!

FROM ANDY ROONEY: I've learned that being kind is more important than being right.

Winning Words 2/17/09
“People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” (Bonnie Jean Wasmund) This quote seems to relate to the one for yesterday. Your thoughtful responses made me feel that the chosen quote was a good one. I like Wasmund’s thought, but I also think that people remember what you said and what you did. I know of a man who went to a neighbor lady and said, “I’m so sorry that your husband died. Is there anything I can do?” “Yes,” she replied, “you can spade my garden.” I’m sure she never forgot what he said and did. ;-) Jack

FROM J.R. IN CALIF: I would be in full agreement with Wasmund's quote had she replaced "will" with "might". I can't tell you how much I look forward to your daily "e's". FROM JACK: You make a good point, but I think she wanted to stress the importance of empathy. Your response made me feel good.

FROM E.A. IN MAZATLAN: How true. Not to mske you feel basdly, but Bev and I are enjoying 80 degree weather in Mazatlan. I should see you on Tuesday next. Be well and stay well.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: To some degree, I agree. But I believe words sometimes speak volumes. Especially the kind ones. Good WW today...they always make me think! FROM JACK: "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." But some seem to have a switch that cuts off the hearing. FROM JUDY: action speaks louder than words...

FROM SNOWBIRD F.M.: Another old response, "I can't hear what you are saying because of what you are doing." FROM JACK: It may be old to you, but it's new to me.

Winning Words 2/16/09
“The most valuable things in life are not measured in monetary terms. The really important things are not houses and lands, stocks and bonds, automobiles and real estate, but friendships, trust, confidence, empathy, mercy, love and faith.” (Bertrand Russell) In these days, when basic values are being questioned, do you have an opinion on the subject? Last week I heard a quote by Edwin Friedman that “Empathy is overrated.” Maybe so, but it’s on Russell’s list of values and on mine, too. ;-) Jack

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: I love the way that Hauck of Stephen Ministry defines EMPATHY....as not only trying to understand womeone else's plight but also giving an effort to try to help them.....it goes way beyond sympathy

FROM MOLINER G.S.: good WW.keep them comin'

FROM H.R. IN MI: Bertrand Russell is right on all these items. Empathy is only overrated by those who have no feelings for others. Bertrand Russell, if I remember right, did not have faith in religion, he had logic and a strong moral guide and he made very strong arguments in favor of the possibility of the world without God. I think he may be at the heart of most Secular Humanist positions. What do you think? REPLY FROM JACK: I think that we somehow have to "empathize" with Russell in the context of his life and times. We are shaped by the circumstance of the things we go through and the people who impact our lives. Many "reglious" people are humanists, in that they care about others. I'm sure that's part of what got you into chiropractic work. The secular part comes into play when one is not satisfied with the direction of the religious community.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: These Winning Words are right on. Morals and values are quickly being put by the wayside. The old saying, "I'm okay...you're okay" is not working. One must be responsible for their actions and lately, that's not happening. There is hope though. People will start to remember the really important things...listed in the WW's...back to basics...back to God.

FROM CJL IN OH: Actually, all seven mentioned by Russell should be on our list.... JACK'S REPLY: You've made a good point. Sometimes B.R. gets a bad rap, because we fail to empathize with the circumstances of his life and times.

FROM MOLINER LIZ: Guess I'm rich!

FROM EMT SINGS IN MI: I agree with Russell!

FROM L.P. IN MI: May we never have too much empathy. When my empathy wanes I find that I am a self-centered, whiny, curmudgeon. And, who wants to be around that?!?A friend recently started a faculty position at the university and had to attend a workshop on teaching. There they explained that "every student is unique and should be treated as such. They each come with their own back story and challenges, much of which you may never know" It was an interesting teaching philosophy and one of more empathy than I would have expected for a large university.

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: I just read the responses to today's WW, and the reply from L.P. in MI about "every student is unique and should be treated as such..." is really a perceptive thought. During my years teaching at UofM it was evident time and again how different persons require different approaches for learning. I often wondered if I was doing well enough at it.

FROM FROM SNOWBIRD F.M.: Check out today, on president's day, the list of 'the best ' presidents and from the 'best' how they displayed in the leadership what is really important. JACK'S REPLY: I suppose that empathy is one of the "best" qualities of leadership.

FROM GUSTIE M.S.: Since my husband’s death, I truly know the value of friendship. It would be impossible to cope without Faith, Family, and Friends!

FROM M.E. IN SO. CALIF: Most passions are not driven by monetary influence, but all people are driven by passion and almost all success stories are driven by passion. Would be interested in your take some time on the influence of passion and on the previous quote that just came out from your reference to BR.

FROM A.M. IN MI: I would put faith first-before anything or anyone because it is faith that gives us hope and strenghth in our marriages, family, friendships, work and life. Faith was always an important guide in my life but it is more so now. You know the saying "too soon old, too late smart" or I would say smarter.
Thank you for the winning words.

FROM MKH IN MI: I learned this one a long time ago although sometimes I find myself caught up in the monetary thing, I try very hard to avoid it. FROM JACK: When money concerns seem to crowd other things out, I think of the song, "Count your blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you, what the Lord has done. MORE FROM MKH: I have five of those that come to mind in an instant some would call them siblings I do know blessing when I see them and Dean and I have been showered with them sometimes you just want a corvette!

FROM L.P. IN MI: In an odd coincidence, last night Chris and I were discussing the idea of "nature v nurture" in relation to personality traits. We figure its a mix but he postulated that we are born with a propensity for certain traits. Empathy came up in the discussion. I wonder if it's like conceptualizing math.. it's just harder for some and we each "get it" to a certain depth. REPLY FROM JACK: I lean toward nurture, but I'm open-minded on the subject. A lot of "get it" people don't seem to "get it" when it comes to empathy

FROM PR A.W. IN IL: when family asks me what I want...I reply two things that only God can give.....time and health. I should add love.

FROM JACK: Erin from AZ send me a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay, RENESCENCE, which seems to relate to today's quote. It's rather lengthy, but good reading. I'll send it to you, if you want.

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: it may be difficult for a student ( or anyone ) who is hungry to believe this, but papa hit the nail on the head. and I sincerely hope my grandchildren are writting this down so they remember. Please remember. I know, when oatmeal was 40 cent at the cafeteria, that ten dollar check went a long way, but this statement was true then and it is true today, and it will be true when you read it to your children.

Winning Words 2/13/09
“Every day may not be good, but there’s good in every day.” (Unknown) It may be difficult, if not impossible, to find good in some days, but I’ve found it helpful to try and do so, anyway. I try to do the same with people, although that seems to be more difficult. For those of us who want to live positively, it’s a good exercise. It’s amazing, what you can find, if you really look for it. Happy hunting! ;-) Jack

FROM A&CS IN MI: I guess you could say being able to arise in the norning makes at least one good thing that happens every day!

OUTHOUSE JUDY: It's not hard to find something good in each day for me at all....people...well that's a different story. I will work harder. Most people will react with kindness...most. And when they do, the feeling is awesome. It's easy to get happy people to smile, but to get a cranky, unhappy one too, well, that is special. JACK'S REPLY: My sister is a pastor's wife. If someone in the congregation was especially cranky, she'd make a batch of cookies and give it to them on Sunday.

FROM S.G. IN TAMPA: I just want you to know how much I enjoy and appreciate your WW. Thanks for sharing. It is hard to believe that I am so busy every day, but that is a good thing.

FROM S.A. IN MI: Keep it up John. Happy Valentine Day.

FROM J.C. IN HONG KONG: Keep up the Goodwork!

FROM CJL IN OH: If you don't want a perverted view of life, you better follow your advice! FROM JACK: When you preached, did you consider yourself as one of the listeners? Sometimes we get so focused in who"s "out there" in the pews that we forget who's "in there" in the pulpit. It's not always the case, but more frequently than not. FROM CJL: I tried to keep the listeners in mind (the audience) and then tailor the message to their needs, not mine, as I saw them. I don't think we forget the one "in there" but forget "why" we are there.

FROM P.&C.S. IN MI: Back at you with a Gooood Morning ( a day late)! FROM JACK: In elementery school, we used to sing to the teacher...
GOOD MORNING TO YOU, GOOD MORNING TO YOU,
WE'RE ALL IN OUR PLACES WITH BRIGHT SHINING FACES,
GOOD MORNING TO YOU. GOOD MORNING TO YOU.

FROM DAUGHTER BETH: Just for the record...you taught me it was Good morning to you! Good morning to you! We're all in our places, with bright happy faces. What a wonderful way to start a new day! (Maybe there are/you know 2 versions.)

Winning Words 2/12/09
“When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. That’s my religion.” (A. Lincoln) The Dalai Lama put it another way by saying, “My religion is kindness.” People have a variety of opinions on the subject of religion. I suppose you have one, too. My opinion on religion looks for positives, rather than negatives. Luther’s explanation of the 10 Commandments puts each in a positive light. ;-) Jack

FROM MOLINER G.S.: Bill Russell is 75 today - time marches on. My Mom got his autograph at the NCAA Finals in 1954. REPLY FROM JACK: If Lincoln were living, he'd be 200. Let's see...who else has a birthday today?

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: i believe that if we acknowledge the positive, when the negative comes across our path, we instinctually face it with positive and it diminishes/confuses it's power.

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: Luther has the good sense to emphasize the positive aspect of the commandments without throwing out the negative aspect.....we are not only to help others but we aren't supposed to harm them either. Some of our Positivists could learn from that!!! JACK'S REPLY: The public perception of the 10 Commandments is one of negativity. I think that Jesus emphasized the positive. "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind, and love your neighbor as you love yourself." MORE FROM J.S.: Jesus also said, "You have heard that it was said to the men of old......." and then he tightened the noose even farther. No simplistic positivism from the Gospels.... MORE FROM JACK: Let's see, didn't he say to love your enemies and do good to those who would do harm to you? Talk about living positively! AND MORE FROM J.S.: You do a great job of ignoring that which doesn't fit into your system.....

FROM MOLINER LIZ: That's why God instilled us with a conscience. Unfortunately, it seems a lot of people choose to ignore their "inside voice".

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: True religion is just between a person and God. The church is a fellowship of like believers. My husband is Abraham Lincoln's 10th cousin, mother's side. There were only a few men's name used in that family, Abraham, Malcolm, Samuel, Jemison to name a few. Gary's grandfather's name was Abraham Raymond Lincoln...he was a doctor for LSSM. He had a very interesting upbringing. President (Lincoln) was the great president ever...at least to me. He had a strong and tested faith and stood firm on the foundation! MORE FROM JUDY: "The most attractive people in the world are the ones who are interested in others - turned outward in cheerfulness, kindness, appreciation, instead of turn inward to be constantly centered in themselves." Pat Boone

FROM L.P. IN MI: Today is publication day! It is good. I feel great!

Winning Words 2/11/09
“When you put faith, hope and love together, you can raise positive kids in a negative world.” (Zig Ziglar) A reader of WWs is writing a book for teachers and parents on the subject: “No Child Left Behind…Unmotivated.” Motivation is important to education. And so is positive thinking, and so is faith, and so is hope, and so is love…. these five; and the greatest of these is….? ;-) Jack

FROM J.H. IN OH: LOVE! See, I do know my bible passages (or a few anyway).

FROM A.P. IN MI: AMEN!! and I shouldn't say that in school!! JACK'S REPLY: If you were an English teacher, you could teach it this way....
Definition of Amen
A`men´ interj., a 1. An expression used at the end of prayers, and meaning, So be it. At the end of a creed, it is a solemn asseveration of belief. When it introduces a declaration, it is equivalent to truly, verily.
And let all the people say, Amen. - Ps. cvi. 48. To say amen to to approve warmly; to concur in heartily or emphatically; to ratify; as, I say Amen to all. v. t. 1. To say Amen to; to sanction fully.
As a music teacher, you could use it during Black History Month as an illustration of a "spiritual."
Amen a spiritual "CHORUS: Amen, amen, amen, amen, amen!
1. (See the baby Jesus) Amen,
(Wrapped in a manger) Amen,
(On Christmas morning!) Amen, amen, amen!
2. (See Him in the temple) Amen,
(Talking to the elders) Amen,
(Who marvelled at His wisdom) Amen, amen, amen!
3. (See Him in the garden) Amen,
(Praying to His Father) Amen,
(In deepest sorrow) Amen, amen, amen!
4. (Glory, hallelujah!) Amen,
(Jesus died to save us) Amen,
(Rose and lives forever!) Amen, amen, amen!
5. (John on Isle of Patmos) Amen,
(Looked into the Gloryland) Amen,
(And saw the angels singing!) Amen, amen, amen!"
FROM A.P.: WOW - you are much too alert at 8 o'clock in the morning for me!! I just said to a friend of mine here at school that it seems the world keeps sending me notions of being positive thru many different means and channels. It's particularly difficult these days as my home, my school is being closed from under us. Thank you for the smile today -
FROM JACK: Your response reminds me of the story of a lady who was entering the hospital again after many procedures. She said, "I wonder what God has for me to do this time."
While the times are unsettling, Anita, you will make the best of it. I wonder what God has for Anita to do in the future? He's done a pretty good job for you in the past. It reminds me of another song, "Count your many blessings, name them one by one." If a church choir were to sing that on a Sunday, I'm sure that the congregation would respond enthusiastically.

FROM CJL IN OHIO: I hope she doesn't ignore the fact that "the parent is the child's foremost teacher no matter how much education he/she gets"

FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: LOVE! FROM JACK: You know your Bible....and something about education, too.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: One word was left out -Charity. And that doesn't just mean a hand-out. REPLY FROM JACK: Charity is from the Greek language and means, to show love. In reality, that's what our charity is meant to do. Our charitable contributions are meant to be expressions of love and not tax write-offs.

FROM D.C. IN KANSAS: Did you ever read anything by the late Catholic Archbishop Dom Helder Camara of Recife, Brazil? He was critic of his country's military disctatorship in the '60s to '80s and was reported to be on a death list. Many were composed at 2 a.m. during his nightly vigils.This brief one is a word for me from his A THOUSAND REASONS FOR LIVING:I wish I werea humble puddlethat would reflect the sky!Here's another:Do people weigh you down?Don't carry them on our shoulders. Take them into your heart.Thanks for the daily bread. JACK'S REPLY: Don, thanks for sharing this. A Thousand Reasons For Living is a book that I want to read, and it fits with this week's theme for WWs. I like both examples which you included.

FROM SNOWBIRD F.M.: St. Paul . . . 2009 edition of I Cor. 13!

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: we had our celebrations of love at school today. we came upon the conclusion that with love all things are possible. children get the pure love thing. they have hope in every single step they take

FROM SJF IN MN: I’m curious about the information in the book about motivation and education. I know many cognitively advanced students who are unmotivated because of the focus of public education and NCLB.

FROM J.O. IN MI: Love!

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: "and the greatest of these is LOVE", nifty

Winning Words 2/10/09
“If you don’t like something, change it; if you can’t change it, change the way you think about it.” (Mary Engelbreit) Continuing the thought from yesterday, I’m going to make this a week of “Live Positively!” quotes. In fact, I have enough for a month, but I don’t want to disappoint the negative thinkers. ;-) Jack

FROM B.D. IN MI: This is what I tell employee's all the time, but not in this way. I can use this a lot.

FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Isn’t it OK to not like something forever? FROM JACK: I can think of a few things. FROM JON: Child molesters, wife beaters,etc

FROM P.O. IN THE HOLY LAND: I was laughing about you not wanting to disappoint the negative thinkers! FROM JACK: Today's quote probably applies to the situation where you find yourself. FROM P.O.: It surely does.

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: i met mary many years ago at a book store signing. a friend of mine arranged the trip. he loved her! the line was long and i was getting impatient. he kept me engrossed with story after story of what was going on in his life. i thank god for my patience that night. my friend is no longer with me here on earth, but he left me with signed copies of m.e. books and drawings. thanks ron. i love you.

FROM M.V. IN MI: Thanks Jack. I love it!

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: I like Mary...she is a very positive person. Give us a month of positives and maybe we can pull some negatives our way.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Positively brilliant FROM JACK: Cheer up. This is the yesterday that won't matter tomorrow. (Ashleigh Brilliant)

FROM C.H. ON CAPE COD: You are so kind- taking consideration for all the cynics, skeptics and pessimists out there! FROM JACK: You're welcome

FROM EMT SINGS IN MI: Here's a couple from my personal collection of "thoughts for the day": "Searching for goodness is the first step in finding it!" and Triumph= "Try" with a little "umph"

FROM CJL IN OHIO: It reminds of the old Army saying: If it moves, salute it; if its loose, move it; if it won't move, paint it.

FROM G.M. IN MI: I was told for years that the difference between an Optimist and a Pessimist was one said the glass was half empty and the other said it was half full. My Belief is that the glass is always full. Half water and half air. This is optimism at its best

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: Why are you so caught up in Either/Or s? If a person is not a positive thinker, he becomes a negative thinker. Is there any place for shades of grey in your thinking? FROM JACK: My hair is gray, and so is my mind. You know my feeling on situation ethics.

FROM MOLINER CROC: I LIKE YOUR " LIVE POSITIVELY " QUOTES. U CAN KEEEP SENDING THEM AS FAR AS I`M CONCERNED.

Winning Words 2/9/09
“Live Positively!” (Seen on a Diet Coke can) Last Friday I didn’t have anything else to read as I ate lunch, so I read the Coke can and saw today’s quote. I also read: Contains phenylalanine and other stuff. I’m going to live positively and not worry about the ingredients. I’m selective in my worrying. How about you? ;-) Jack

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Great Winning Words today....today I'm going to say and do all positive words and actions. I will keep you posted! Positively!!!

FROM P.O. IN THE HOLY lAND: 'selective about my worrying' --- ain't that the truth, especially now! JACK REPLY: Do you remember the old saying? Worry is like sitting in a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but it doesn't get you anywhere. P.O.'s REPLY: That puts it in perspective, doesn't it? --- Thank you!

FROM DOC ERIC IN MI: I have a general rule that I try to follow when it comes to ingredients on things: if you can't pronounce it - don't eat it! Some people get so caught up in food ingredients I think they make themselves sickfrom worry...but that doesn't negate the fact that we should eat our foods as close to the way G-d created them as possible. And I don't think phenylalanine was one of them! JACK'S REPLY: You can say that again, if you can pronounce it. Most of the ingredients listed on the packages of food we eat contain words I can't pronounce. Does it matter if I eat stuff that's past the expiration date, too? If G-d has created everything, he must have created the p-word, also.

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: By contrast with you, I worry when I'm selecting something. Your WW reminds me of Charles Schulz's character, Lucy, who said, "I'm very optimistic about my pessimism." JACK'S REPLY: Another cartoon character who should appeal to you is Joe Btfsplk. R.I.'s REPLY: Yep, I remember him...by Al Capp wasn't it, in the L'il Abner strip? I don't follow many of the strips anymore, but there are a couple that keep me amused. What I really miss is The Far Side by Gary Larson. FROM JACK: You can Google The Far Side, and, at your age, your probably don't remember the reruns.

FROM M.T. IN PA: I laughed out loud because I thought you were going to say, "I'm going to live positively and not drink Coke anymore." Either way, live positively! JACK'S REPLY: I'm positively going to continue drinking Diet Coke (Several years ago I switched from Classic).

FROM M.L. IN IL: if we weren't selective, i fear, (no pun intended), we would be a society of agorophobics!

FROM CJL IN OH: What can we do about it, anyway? JACK'S REPLY: How about switching to Diet Pepsi? FROM CJL: Have you read that can? FROM JACK: The oatmeal box says, "For healthy people over 2," so I suppose that's safe.

FROM OPTIMIST B.M.: I do try to be selective in my worrying. I often think about the Optimist Creed and when it comes to worrying, I especially think about "forget the mistakes of the past.....". I'm always impressed by the universality of the creed statements. JACK'S REPLY: Someone suggested that the phrase should be changed to, "learn from the mistakes from the past." Both are good thoughts.

FROM EMT SINGS IN MI: Yes, depending on the day the priorities change. Sort of like my prayer list. It is only a little after 9:30 am and already my list has changed a couple of times! REPLY FROM JACK: Your Prayer List seems to have active ingredients!

FROM MOLINER LIZ: I'm an equal opportunity worrier-- I worry about the toxicity the aluminum Coke can may be leeching into the product, which may cause Alzheimer's in thirty years... of course, that doesn't stop me from drinking it three times a day! JACK'S REPLY: That's something else to put on my list of things not to worry about. MORE FROM LIZ: If you need additional suggestions, feel free to contact me. I need to remove myself from the radiation emanating from the computer screen now, and go sit at least five feet away from The Today Show. FROM JACK: My grandson asked me on Saturday what I think about nuclear power, because he's writing a report on it. Let's see....Coal is bad. We're running out of oil and gas. Car emissions cause global warming. We might as well try something else. Ecclesiastes 3. FROM LIZ: Harness the wind and hydropower.

FROM M.E. IN SO. CALIF: Will make it easier for me to drink diet coke, which is one of my ways to avoid calories. Will still try to drink more water. Your strategy is already working.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Drink Positive!

FROM D.S. IN SAN DIEGO: I used to worry all of the time. Now I have it down to 99% of the time, and climbing! :-) Let's see, should I drink Coke, or "do" coke?

FROM L.P. IN MI (AN EXPERT): I am glad you are selective in your worrying. Phenylalanine is actually a naturally occurring essential amino acid (found in breast milk among other places) and according to wikipedia the worst it will do is give you gas. Of course if you have a genetic disorder (PKU) that makes you unable to digest it that could be trouble... which is why the diet coke can has to warn you about it. Now the aspartame from whence the phenylalanine comes.... well as we are "living positively" I will stick to "all is fine in moderation". If you find yourself without something to read this Friday, seek out this Thursdays (2/12) edition of Nature and read the piece on metabolomics in prostate cancer... I'm the second author. It was a bear of a project so I'm regaining positivity by rejoicing in its prime publication. FROM JACK: Phew, I'm glad you gave me that information. MORE FROM L.P.: I guess all this work with metabolomics data has made me jump on any discussion of common metabolites

IN CASE YOU DIDN'T KNOW: Metabolomics is the "systematic study of the unique chemical fingerprints that specific cellular processes leave behind" - specifically, the study of their small-molecule metabolite profiles.[1] The metabolome represents the collection of all metabolites in a biological organism, which are the end products of its gene expression. Thus, while mRNA gene expression data and proteomic analyses do not tell the whole story of what might be happening in a cell, metabolic profiling can give an instantaneous snapshot of the physiology of that cell. One of the challenges of systems biology and functional genomics is to integrate proteomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic information to give a more complete picture of living organisms.

MORE FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: It's interesting to me that the shortest WW you've put out this year (and maybe in previous years) has gotten the longest number of responses.

FROM SNOWBIRD F.M.: To be safe, I drink diet Dr. Pepper! It must be safe- for a doctor had something to do with it!

FROM D.P. IN MN: You should be more selective in your beverage choices! ! Oh well, I guess one won't hurt you. FROM JACK: The other option in the fridge is A & W Root Beer.

FROM PHARMACIST BOB NEAR ORLANDO: please stopppppp drinking diet anything. There is one ingredient in some of these diet drinks/foods that is totally badddddd 4 U. My Pa used to insist that we all think positive. MORE: U can stoppppp worrying about the diet product, Just don't drink the stuff. If u don't have a lactose problem, try milk. It'll give U a moustache. Bob ( and calcium and vit D. ( thank Dr. Steinbach for wiping out rickets with irradiated milk. whooopppeee for Wisc.

Winning Words 2/6/09
“Philosophy is common sense with big words.” (James Madison) Philosophy has its root in the Greek language, and in simple terms, it means, the love of wisdom. WWs is my attempt at trying to philosophize our daily life. Do you have any philosophical thoughts for today? And, K.I.S.S. ;-) Jack

FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I have always explained philosophy as, “What you think about what you know.”

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: No brillant thoughts today but I will ponder the Winning Words! FROM JACK: How about, "If my nose was running money, I'd blow it all on you?"

FROM MOLINER B.G.: My philosophy is the 'GOLDEN RULE"

FROM MOLINER C.F.: I always K.I.S.S. in my responses to WW. That's my philosophy.

FROM SON, DAVID: Do you know what teleology is ? (without looking it up)

FROM M.E. IN SO. CALIF: Life is a self fulfilling prophesy. Be positive. A difficult philosophy to implement in economic context, where the global confidence is so shaken.

FROM CWR IN B'MORE: William Faulkner......"The past isn't dead. It isn't even past."

FROM A.McC. IN MI: And you do a good job!

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: Early to bed, early to rise, will make a man healthy, wealthy and wise. PEACE,

Winning Words 2/5/09
“An opinion should be the result of thought, not a substitute for it.” (Jeff Mallett) I like the comic strip, Frazz. This quote appeared in it sometime ago. Our opinions are formed from many sources, TV News, NPR, and the internet. The comics can be a source, too. You’ve probably heard it said that “The mind is a terrible thing to waste.” WWs is meant to stimulate thought in order for you to form an opinion. ;-) Jack

FROM M.T. IN PA: It works for me! Good one today,

FROM P.O. IN THE HOLY LAND: Oh, I so like this one. Greetings from Yanoun.....finally! I had to remain in Jerusalem for a bit to take care of my medical problems but have finally joined my team. I will try to put another entry on the blog today.

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: ww has been a daily excercise in personal philosophy. thanks for the stimulation! FROM JACK: Yoga for the mind. FROM M.L.: namaste. FROM JACK: I bow to you, too.

FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Here is my opinion as a result of watching the Katie Couric news: "Asking congress to fix the economy is like asking the rapist to counsel the victim." FROM JACK: I imagine that your opinion is the result of thought. That's what Frazz wanted. REPLY FROM JON: I’ve noticed any opinion contrary to a statist is assumed to have not been thought out. I started to add “thoughtful” to my reply and decided to see if you would bite; and you did. Is it possible FDR and all of the intervention greatly prolonged the depression? Of course that is too painful a thought for most statists to wrestle with so they use the media, education, and intuitions in Orwellian fashion to promote that which keeps them in power. 51 percent of voters presently don’t pay taxes—a victory for statists if you care to follow through on some uncomfortable thoughts.
Have a good day. It’s cold cold here. FROM JACK: My, you're sensitive today. I thought that my response was benign. You have nothing to fear, but. REPLY FROM JON: Gee I am sorry I misread your original email.
Excuse the rants.

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: Today's WW is a good quote, and it seems related to some other words I've read..."there's a difference between talking and saying something."

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Yes, and the waist is a terrible thing to mind. MORE: Remember David Brinkley's book "Evrerybody is entitled to my opinion"?

FROM MOLINER T.L.: I always liked the old saw, "Impossible is an opinion, not a fact".

Winning Words 2/4/09
“No winter lasts forever. No spring skips its turn.” (Hal Borland This really isn’t a quote about the weather, is it? It’s about change. We in Michigan often brag about liking the change of seasons, but with this year’s record snowfall and below zero temperatures, most of us are ready for the change to spring. Change is what makes life interesting. I remember a song, And The Beat Goes On. ;-) Jack

FROM MOLINER G.S.: Good comment - I thought about the cold last nite walking in 10 deg weather.

FROM S.G. IN TAMPA: You know, Jack, a lot of the Michiganders come to Florida during the long winter. The snowbirds learn how to cope with change and to make it easier on themselves and to have new experiences here. Through the years we know all about changes, some good, some bad, but we are all still here for a purpose every day, don't you think?

FROM MOLINER C.F.: They say dont change the old for the newBut Ive found out that this will never doWhen you grow old dont last longYoure here today and then tomorrow youre goneI loved a man for many years gone byI thought his love for me would never dieHe made some changes that would never doFrom now on Im going to make some changes tooFor theres a change in the weatherTheres a change in the seaSo from now on therell be in change in meMy walk will be different, my talk and my nameNothin about me is going to be the sameIm goin to change my wayof livinIf that aint enoughThen Ill change the way that I strut my stuffcause nobody wants you when youre old and grayTherell be some changes made todayTherell be some changes made FROM JACK: Yes, I remember that song

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: I remember a book, The Winter of Our Discontent. But as you probably know it's genesis is a quote from Shakespeare, "And now comes the winter of our discontent..." indicating that the time for unhappiness was over...it was time to look to the future. This year my own book would be The Discontent of Our Winter. JACK'S REPLY: I like what Shakespeare had to say.

FROM G.M. IN MI: n the past when we have a cold winter we get a hot summer. Bring on the robins and the fresh smell of spring

FROM SNOWBIRD F.M.: I understand that you are having a tough winter . . . . but you don't have to share it with us down here on the Gulf. We had 28 degrees this morning! Thankfully we'll experience change quickly - it is to be 70 by Saturday!

Winning Words 2/3/09
“But all endings are also beginnings. We just don’t know it.” (Sent by D.S. in AZ) This quote was used as part of a funeral service. So often, we focus in on the present and the past and overlook the excitement of the future. This reminder is not only for the grieving, but it’s good advice for all, when facing the everyday world. ;-) Jack

FROM CJL IN OH: That's one you should put up next to your PC. As we all should.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Well, if you believe in the Bible and Jesus' word, you do believe it. It's a wonderful message of hope! FROM JACK: Someone used the Hallelujah Chorus as the recessional hymn at a funeral service.

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: There seems to be two sides to many of our experiences...it's how you look at it. As all endings are also beginnings, so goings are also comings, growth is also decline, living is also dying. One event sets the stage for the other, not? FROM JACK: ...and sometimes decline can be growth. Dying, for the people of G-d, is the start of living.

FROM GUSTIE M.N.: I think you wrote that one for me! I am better today.

Winning Words 2/2/09
“Turn your face to the sun and the shadows fall behind you.” (Maori Proverb) Maybe somebody should quote this proverb to Punxsutawney Phil. When you look on the bright side, the frightening things don’t necessarily go away, but they seem less scary.
The Maori are Polynesian natives who settled in New Zealand. They are called “people of the land,” and today’s quote indicates that they know something about how the mind works, as well. New ideas are sometimes old proverbs. ;-) Jack

FROM INDY GENIE: 'Isn't there a song "Everything Old Is New Again"? FROM JACK: Yes!

EVERYTHING OLD IS NEW AGAIN
When trumpets were mellow And ev'ry gal only had one fellowNo need to remember when'Cause ev'ry thing old is new again(Dancin' at) Your Long Island Jazz Age partiesWaiter, bring us more BacardisWe'll order now what they ordered then'Cause ev'ry thing old is new againGet out your white suit, your tap shoes and tailsLet's go backwards when all else(forward) failsAnd movie stars you thought were long deadNow are framed beside your bedDon't throw the past awayYou might need it some rainy dayDreams can come true againWhen ev'ry thing old is new againGet out your white suit, your tap shoes and tailsPut it in backward when forward failsBut leave Greta Garbo aloneBe a movie star on your ownAnd don't throw the past awayYou might need it some rainy dayDreams can come true againWhen ev'ry thing old is new againI might fall in love with you again

MORE FROM INDY GENIE: I'm gettin' out my white suit, tap shoes and tails!

FROM JACK TO S.H. IN MI: There used to be a radio drama called, The Shadow Knows. It was one of my favorites.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: There was a Russian folk song I learned a long time ago....it fits today's winning words...but it is kind of strange...
May there always be sunshine
May there always be blue clouds
May there always be mama
May there always be me.
I thought it strange when I was a little girl and I still think it strange. But...may there always be sunshine especially after the rain.

FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: i love the maori culture, wacky, but so organic.