Winning Words 4/29/11
“Instead of loving your enemies, treat your friends a little better.” (Ed Howe) In 1944, The Mills Brothers had a “hit” song, “You Aways Hurt the One You Love.” Child abuse and spousal abuse are making headlines these days, but the problem is not a new one. St. Paul wrote: “The evil that I would not, that I do.” The bottom line is…We can all do a better job of being kinder to those around us. ;-) Jack
FROM MK IN MICHIGAN: Sounds good to me Jack, that whole loving your enemies is just about impossible for this human being…. I know he loves them I struggle with that one. Happy Friday to You!! FROM JACK: Let's start with the do-able by being kinder to those around us. God's "command" to be willing to forgive is not an impossible request (or else it wouldn't have been given), but it does present a struggle. Perhaps, that's why it is significant. It's not easy.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Great Winning Words...although not what the Bible tells us. However, I agree with treating our friends and I might add, family better. Today I will endeavor to do just that...a little extra love never hurt anyone! FROM JACK: Don't be distracted by the word, "instead." The thought is that we should be treating "everybody" better. Many agonize as to whether or not forgiveness is deserved, without recognizing the meaning of "grace." Grace (undeserved love) begins with the inner circle and moves outward.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: What an excellent idea! It is our nearest and dearest who deserve our very best, and who often bear the brunt of our ill humor due to something that has nothing to do with them! Someone asked me once, in an interview, what I considered the prime attribute of a mate (after I had been married many years!). I replied, "Kindness". To have a mate who is KIND is a great blessing! Or children, or friends, or
acquaintances! Yes, never mind so much loving our enemies, let's shower our family and friends with love and kindness!! FROM JACK: After the wedding hoopla, I hope that Prince William and Kate treat each other with kindness.
FROM MOLINER CF: Kindness is catching. Pass it on. FROM JACK: Kindness is receiving. Accept it.
FROM JS IN MICHIGAN: How about both/and? FROM JACK: I thought that you told me the other day that you were an either/or person; however, I accept your suggestion that forgiveness and kindness go hand in hand.
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: I thought that was a great wedding sermon this morning. Sometimes the kindest thing we can do for our mate is to give him/her some room, especially to grow in the direction he/she needs to grow--hopefully not growing away from us but to become more himself/herself and in the end come closer to God and to us. At first I watched the wedding almost in embarrassment from getting caught up in the media frenzy but finally I appreciated what that couple did for so many people who might not think a church wedding is important in their lives. Very good example, in my opinion. FROM JACK: "The two shall be one" is hard enough to accomplish, but the other expectations with being "a royal couple," must be extremely difficult to live up to.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: How about "both and" rather than "either or"? FROM JACK: One is better than non. Too many folks are satisfied with neither/nor.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Winning Words 4/28/11
“Many are called, but few get up.” (Oliver Hartford) I hardly ever use an alarm clock. My mother never had to get me out of bed for school. In fact, I was usually the first one up in the morning. What’s it like in your house? As I look at Hartford’s words, I see a message that’s not about alarm clocks. There are many issues and people in the world that are calling for help. Who will jump out of bed? ;-) Jack
FROM JS IN MICHIGAN: My Dad used to go thru the house early in the morning saying, "Rise and Shine" My sister would rise but she refused to "shine"! FROM JACK: My job was to get up start a fire in the furnace. I wonder how many remember doing that job. "Rise and get the house warm!"
FROM HS IN MICHIGAN: That's a good one. I like that! FROM JACK: So much to do. So little time.
FROM RB IN MICHIGAN: Amen... Those words are truly inspirational for me this morning. FROM JACK: Irving Berlin wrote a song, "Oh, How I Hate To Get Up In The Morning." I guess it depends on how we see the day before us. The pessimist sees the difficulty in every day; the optimist sees the opportunity in every day.
FROM AP IN MICHIGAN: I don't use an alarm clock either and am the 1st one up in the morning. FROM JACK: Most of us who get up early usually have a reason to get up. The value of that reason is not for others to decide. I must confess that there are a few times when I "reason" that it's best to roll over for a while.
FROM JS IN MICHIGAN: If you were the first one up in the morning, what time did you go to beddy bye? FROM JACK: I've usually aimed at 6 to 7 hours of sleep. Since I try to send out Winning Words around 5 am, you do the math.
FROM NL IN INDIANAPOLIS: I NEVER USED AN ALARM CLOCK TOO. FROM JACK: Symbiotic?
FROM BF IN MICHIGAN: I'll forward this one to some people we need to move to action. FROM JACK: One of the things about Winning Words is that they have a way of moving me to action. I try to "press on the greater achievements of the future."
FROM MOLINER CF: A BIRDIE WITH A YELLOW BILL HOPPED UPON MY WINDOW SILL. COCKED HIS SHINING EYE AND SAID, AIN'T YOU ASHAMED, YOU SLEEPY HEAD?" FROM JACK: One thing I enjoy as an early-riser is the opportunity to hear the songs of birds singing in the trees in the semi-darkness.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: These Winnings Words brought back some vivid memories for me. Kimberly always had to be the first one up every morning. If I got up early, she got up earlier. She always was up before me! One day, we went to Eastland for lunch with my friends. Kimberly, who was about 3 1/2 started talking in her LOUD little voice..."Momma you beat me up this morning, Momma, you beat me up!" Over and over she said and I kept trying to quiet her down. The more I tried to quiet her the louder she said it. The whole time I was trying to quieter I was looking more and more guilty!! I was sure someone would call the police and have me arrested because I "Beat" her up. She was referring to the fact that I got up before her that morning. Needless to say, we hurried out of that place!!! I will never forget it either and I don't let her forget it! :-) I actually had to set an alarm each morning for her. She was not allowed to get up before it went off!!!! I never have to use an alarm clock either, as I have one in my head. If I need to be up at 6 am I wake up at 6 am. The words also remind me of these words..."Many are called; few will serve." How many actually listen???
FROM JACK: What a great story of perceived "child abuse." Things are not always what they seem, so we need to be cautious about rushing to judgment regarding what we see and hear.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: "The fields are ripe with harvest...whom can we send, and who will go?" Almost every organization is crying for volunteers, including the church, so opportunities to "get up" or "out" are certainly there. Those of us who do volunteer often get burned out at some point...because of gas prices, Meals on Wheels have really taken a hit. I'm sure it has affected other charities as well. Most would identify with an old song my twin and I used to sing in programs we gave (and I do too, to a point!) ARE YOU HAVING ANY FUN?
Are you having any fun? What 'cha gettin' outta living? What good is what you've got, if your not, having any fun? Are ya having any laughs? Are you gettin' any lovin'? If other people do, so can you, have a little fun!
You know you work, and slave and save (Life is full of "ifs" and ":buts" Well, the squirrels save and save, and whatta they got? NUTS Better have a little fun, you aren't gonna live forever! Before you're old and gray, still O.K., Have a little fun, Son, Have a little fun!
So we work to find that balance... FROM JACK: Our community has an annual breakfast where awards are given to volunteers who have made a difference during the year. Of course, there are many more beyond those who are given public recognition. The "real" volunteer doesn't do it for the recognition.
FROM JC IN HONG KONG: I would say this quote is not aimed at sleepers, but instead at people who are in their comfortable chairs, enjoying what they have. Thankfully, some of them are actually waiting for a call! As for the others, they are probably Ameicans enjoying what's left of their soon-to-be-drained retirement hedge funds, and claiming their RIGHT to not help others. FROM JACK: "Wake up and smell the roses." I'm sure that God has made more roses than noses. There are many good smells in the world for people who seek them out.
MORE FROM JC: Your meaning being .... criticisms not allowed in Optimistville? FROM JACK: Criticism? What criticism? I was just observing that God has made many roses...and noses.
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: I never use an alarm clock – even when I was taking early flights, or scheduled for an early service. I just wake up. And to this day, my wife trusts that I’ll wake up. I don’t jump out of bed anymore, just roll my way out, but never sleep in, no matter what time we go to bed. Years ago, when I was interviewing pastors, one question, “What time to you get up in the morning?” was a clue to their work habits!
FROM JACK: There's a whole world inside of us still waiting to be explored and explained. I don't recall being asked by you about my alarm clock.
FROM AM IN MICHIGAN: We sleep late and go to bed late. Amazing that when I retired twenty years ago, I woke up early and was at the gym at 7:30 a.m.. I had to compete with all those going to work. I gradually arrived later and now I cruise in around noon. My husband and I read the paper, enjoy breakfast and think retirement is grand. I won't dwell on the aches of aging. FROM JACK: Whatever "floats your boat."
“Many are called, but few get up.” (Oliver Hartford) I hardly ever use an alarm clock. My mother never had to get me out of bed for school. In fact, I was usually the first one up in the morning. What’s it like in your house? As I look at Hartford’s words, I see a message that’s not about alarm clocks. There are many issues and people in the world that are calling for help. Who will jump out of bed? ;-) Jack
FROM JS IN MICHIGAN: My Dad used to go thru the house early in the morning saying, "Rise and Shine" My sister would rise but she refused to "shine"! FROM JACK: My job was to get up start a fire in the furnace. I wonder how many remember doing that job. "Rise and get the house warm!"
FROM HS IN MICHIGAN: That's a good one. I like that! FROM JACK: So much to do. So little time.
FROM RB IN MICHIGAN: Amen... Those words are truly inspirational for me this morning. FROM JACK: Irving Berlin wrote a song, "Oh, How I Hate To Get Up In The Morning." I guess it depends on how we see the day before us. The pessimist sees the difficulty in every day; the optimist sees the opportunity in every day.
FROM AP IN MICHIGAN: I don't use an alarm clock either and am the 1st one up in the morning. FROM JACK: Most of us who get up early usually have a reason to get up. The value of that reason is not for others to decide. I must confess that there are a few times when I "reason" that it's best to roll over for a while.
FROM JS IN MICHIGAN: If you were the first one up in the morning, what time did you go to beddy bye? FROM JACK: I've usually aimed at 6 to 7 hours of sleep. Since I try to send out Winning Words around 5 am, you do the math.
FROM NL IN INDIANAPOLIS: I NEVER USED AN ALARM CLOCK TOO. FROM JACK: Symbiotic?
FROM BF IN MICHIGAN: I'll forward this one to some people we need to move to action. FROM JACK: One of the things about Winning Words is that they have a way of moving me to action. I try to "press on the greater achievements of the future."
FROM MOLINER CF: A BIRDIE WITH A YELLOW BILL HOPPED UPON MY WINDOW SILL. COCKED HIS SHINING EYE AND SAID, AIN'T YOU ASHAMED, YOU SLEEPY HEAD?" FROM JACK: One thing I enjoy as an early-riser is the opportunity to hear the songs of birds singing in the trees in the semi-darkness.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: These Winnings Words brought back some vivid memories for me. Kimberly always had to be the first one up every morning. If I got up early, she got up earlier. She always was up before me! One day, we went to Eastland for lunch with my friends. Kimberly, who was about 3 1/2 started talking in her LOUD little voice..."Momma you beat me up this morning, Momma, you beat me up!" Over and over she said and I kept trying to quiet her down. The more I tried to quiet her the louder she said it. The whole time I was trying to quieter I was looking more and more guilty!! I was sure someone would call the police and have me arrested because I "Beat" her up. She was referring to the fact that I got up before her that morning. Needless to say, we hurried out of that place!!! I will never forget it either and I don't let her forget it! :-) I actually had to set an alarm each morning for her. She was not allowed to get up before it went off!!!! I never have to use an alarm clock either, as I have one in my head. If I need to be up at 6 am I wake up at 6 am. The words also remind me of these words..."Many are called; few will serve." How many actually listen???
FROM JACK: What a great story of perceived "child abuse." Things are not always what they seem, so we need to be cautious about rushing to judgment regarding what we see and hear.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: "The fields are ripe with harvest...whom can we send, and who will go?" Almost every organization is crying for volunteers, including the church, so opportunities to "get up" or "out" are certainly there. Those of us who do volunteer often get burned out at some point...because of gas prices, Meals on Wheels have really taken a hit. I'm sure it has affected other charities as well. Most would identify with an old song my twin and I used to sing in programs we gave (and I do too, to a point!) ARE YOU HAVING ANY FUN?
Are you having any fun? What 'cha gettin' outta living? What good is what you've got, if your not, having any fun? Are ya having any laughs? Are you gettin' any lovin'? If other people do, so can you, have a little fun!
You know you work, and slave and save (Life is full of "ifs" and ":buts" Well, the squirrels save and save, and whatta they got? NUTS Better have a little fun, you aren't gonna live forever! Before you're old and gray, still O.K., Have a little fun, Son, Have a little fun!
So we work to find that balance... FROM JACK: Our community has an annual breakfast where awards are given to volunteers who have made a difference during the year. Of course, there are many more beyond those who are given public recognition. The "real" volunteer doesn't do it for the recognition.
FROM JC IN HONG KONG: I would say this quote is not aimed at sleepers, but instead at people who are in their comfortable chairs, enjoying what they have. Thankfully, some of them are actually waiting for a call! As for the others, they are probably Ameicans enjoying what's left of their soon-to-be-drained retirement hedge funds, and claiming their RIGHT to not help others. FROM JACK: "Wake up and smell the roses." I'm sure that God has made more roses than noses. There are many good smells in the world for people who seek them out.
MORE FROM JC: Your meaning being .... criticisms not allowed in Optimistville? FROM JACK: Criticism? What criticism? I was just observing that God has made many roses...and noses.
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: I never use an alarm clock – even when I was taking early flights, or scheduled for an early service. I just wake up. And to this day, my wife trusts that I’ll wake up. I don’t jump out of bed anymore, just roll my way out, but never sleep in, no matter what time we go to bed. Years ago, when I was interviewing pastors, one question, “What time to you get up in the morning?” was a clue to their work habits!
FROM JACK: There's a whole world inside of us still waiting to be explored and explained. I don't recall being asked by you about my alarm clock.
FROM AM IN MICHIGAN: We sleep late and go to bed late. Amazing that when I retired twenty years ago, I woke up early and was at the gym at 7:30 a.m.. I had to compete with all those going to work. I gradually arrived later and now I cruise in around noon. My husband and I read the paper, enjoy breakfast and think retirement is grand. I won't dwell on the aches of aging. FROM JACK: Whatever "floats your boat."
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Winning Words 4/27/11
“A morning-glory at my window satisfies me more than the metaphysics of books.” (Walt Whitman) WW also wrote: “I hear and behold God in every object, yet understand God not in the least.” I did not expect to learn that Whitman spent most of the Civil War years working among the wounded and the dying in hospitals. I didn’t think poets did that. What do I know? ;-) Jack
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Yes he did a lot of work with the soldiers. He lived what he believed and found beauty whereever he went. Commendable guy! FROM JACK: Transcendentalist, realist, and humanist are all words used to describe WW, but words do not really describe a person. MORE FROM OJ: Words don't do justice to some people but it's the "human" way to place labels on each other. Thankfully, our only label that really counts is "God's child". I guess "Saved" would be another one. I'm sure you can come up with quite a few! FROM JACK: As far as labels go, I like what Jesus said to his disciples before he left them. "I have
called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you." (John 15:15)
FROM MOLINER CF: Maybe Whitman was a Humanist first and a Poet second. FROM JACK: It would be nice if we all cared about one another as he did. When Jesus was asked to name the most important of the commandments, he replied, "You shall love the Lord, your God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind, and you shall love your neighbor as you love yourself." I would see Whitman as doing that.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: A few years ago, I toured the Walt Whitman library. Like so many poets and writers he was not really appreciated until after his death, but he did try to make his life count in the world. He didn't seem to have the happiest personal life, but again, I imagine that fuels the creative juices! When one looks about at the fresh beauty of this time of year, how hard NOT to believe in God! What a blessing to have a sustaining faith, and to be able to live one's life for something that will outlast it! FROM JACK: From what I've read, you're right in saying that Whitman's life was not a happy one. I wonder if a large degree of pathos is what makes various "artists" great. Van Gogh, Chaplin, Emily Dickenson, as examples.
FROM JE IN MICHIGAN: Walt Whitman is right on! I cannot wait to plant my morning glories…..I love them!
I buy blue, white, fuchsia and pink seeds and get them in early and enjoy them until autumn! FROM JACK: I like the way that they open in the morning and close in the evening. Nature is so interesting.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: That's why we study & learn... FROM JACK: I'm learning every day, but not necessarily studying.
“A morning-glory at my window satisfies me more than the metaphysics of books.” (Walt Whitman) WW also wrote: “I hear and behold God in every object, yet understand God not in the least.” I did not expect to learn that Whitman spent most of the Civil War years working among the wounded and the dying in hospitals. I didn’t think poets did that. What do I know? ;-) Jack
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Yes he did a lot of work with the soldiers. He lived what he believed and found beauty whereever he went. Commendable guy! FROM JACK: Transcendentalist, realist, and humanist are all words used to describe WW, but words do not really describe a person. MORE FROM OJ: Words don't do justice to some people but it's the "human" way to place labels on each other. Thankfully, our only label that really counts is "God's child". I guess "Saved" would be another one. I'm sure you can come up with quite a few! FROM JACK: As far as labels go, I like what Jesus said to his disciples before he left them. "I have
called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you." (John 15:15)
FROM MOLINER CF: Maybe Whitman was a Humanist first and a Poet second. FROM JACK: It would be nice if we all cared about one another as he did. When Jesus was asked to name the most important of the commandments, he replied, "You shall love the Lord, your God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind, and you shall love your neighbor as you love yourself." I would see Whitman as doing that.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: A few years ago, I toured the Walt Whitman library. Like so many poets and writers he was not really appreciated until after his death, but he did try to make his life count in the world. He didn't seem to have the happiest personal life, but again, I imagine that fuels the creative juices! When one looks about at the fresh beauty of this time of year, how hard NOT to believe in God! What a blessing to have a sustaining faith, and to be able to live one's life for something that will outlast it! FROM JACK: From what I've read, you're right in saying that Whitman's life was not a happy one. I wonder if a large degree of pathos is what makes various "artists" great. Van Gogh, Chaplin, Emily Dickenson, as examples.
FROM JE IN MICHIGAN: Walt Whitman is right on! I cannot wait to plant my morning glories…..I love them!
I buy blue, white, fuchsia and pink seeds and get them in early and enjoy them until autumn! FROM JACK: I like the way that they open in the morning and close in the evening. Nature is so interesting.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: That's why we study & learn... FROM JACK: I'm learning every day, but not necessarily studying.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Winning Words 4/26/11
“Today proved that you can achieve anything you set your mind on.” (Jennifer’s father) 3 years ago Jennifer was paralyzed from the waist down after a car accident. Her planned wedding was put on hold, because she was determined to “walk” down the aisle. She did that recently…wedding gown, walker and a smile. Jennifer inspired me as I saw the video. Her comment afterward: “Everything was great!” ;-) Jack
FROM TS IN MICHIGAN: The world is expecting, hoping, praying that Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords will make a complete recovery. She is walking with help; speaking single words. A long, difficult process and she is already in the top 5 per cent. Already a miracle, by some standards. Sometimes we have to adjust our expectations without attaching disappointment. We have to hope for a complete recovery but not be disappointment if it's not. FROM JACK: Sometimes small steps are incredibly big steps. People like Gabby and Jennifer encourage the rest of us as we fight our own battles out of the spotlight. MORE FROM TS: I guess sometimes we can boil many of the philosophies into the words, "every journey begins with one small step" FROM JACK: Yes, those newlyweds have a journey before them....as do all newlyweds. I think it's good that we only have to take one step at a time, without seeing the road ahead.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: The story was an amazing one...and Jennifer is an amazing person! All She needed was the faith of a mustard seed. FROM JACK: The Finns have a word that describes her determination ...SISU! To the Finnish people, sisu has a mystical, almost magical meaning. Sisu (pronounced - see'-soo) is a unique Finnish concept. It is a Finnish term that can be roughly translated into English as strength of will, determination, perseverance, and acting rationally in the face of adversity. It also means...GUTS. MORE FROM OUTHOUSE: Thank you for the new knowledge. Maybe SISU will be a new word in my vocabulary. I would say Jennifer had Sisu!
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: Truly inspirational!!!! FROM JACK: Jesus said to the man, "Take up your bed and walk." The bedridden man had to believe that he could do it, before he did it.
"Change your thoughts and you change your world."
— Norman Vincent Peale: Was a minister and author of inspirational books
FROM MOLINER CF: And God bless the boyfriend who stuck with her! FROM JACK: ...and the husband who, after the ceremony, scooped her up in his arms and carried her back down the aisle of the church. MORE FROM CF: Marvelous, heartwarming story. FROM JACK: There are others out there, waiting to be told. Some make the "news," and others don't.
FROM JT IN ILLINOIS: My goal for Easter Sunday was to walk to communion without walker, cane or holding on to Max (my wife)-- I did it !! FROM JACK: Hallelujah.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: What a triumph for her!~! I had the video series of Bill Moyers (aired first on TV) about how powerful the Mind is over Matter (Can't recall the exact title, but it was amazing what the mind could control!) I think there is a level of communicating that we haven't even touched yet. I am fascinated by the experiments at Drake U. of people sending mental images of, say a bowl of fruit, or a carton of eggs, and having people in another part of the world receiving the image, and drawing it. I'm sure thought-transference is entirely possible. We never stop evolving, do we?! FROM JACK: When the explorer Marco Polo returned from a 24-year trek to the Orient, people had a hard time believing him when he told of all that he had seen. He responded, "...and I haven't told the half of it." The mind is more amazing that we can ever imagine.
FROM JC IN HONG KONG: "All things are possible with God", is a better one. ;-) FROM JACK: I see that you're into Possibility Thinking....and believing. MORE FROM JC (NOT THE FAMOUS JC): Possibility Thinking ... watching that video reminded me of the occasional need of 5 loaves and 2 fishes. Or was it the other way around? I forgot to give you the instigator video, worldslastchance. FROM JACK: I looked at the site. I buy into the warning that we should always be ready for the end of life, because no one knows the day nor the hour. Apocalyptic thinking doesn't scare me. AND MORE FROM JC: Ha, right, you're not scared of thinking! You liberals are always the first to run away from reality. FROM JACK: How can that be? Someone has described me as a realist.
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: I too was moved by the news clip I saw on her wedding. . . . and by the observation of her father. I’m reading Paul Allen’s IDEA MAN. My, what Paul and Bill Gates accomplished! They too set their young minds on something, which has changed all of our lives. FROM JACK: Idea Man sounds like a good book. I'll have to check into it. There should be a book like that for the clergy.
“Today proved that you can achieve anything you set your mind on.” (Jennifer’s father) 3 years ago Jennifer was paralyzed from the waist down after a car accident. Her planned wedding was put on hold, because she was determined to “walk” down the aisle. She did that recently…wedding gown, walker and a smile. Jennifer inspired me as I saw the video. Her comment afterward: “Everything was great!” ;-) Jack
FROM TS IN MICHIGAN: The world is expecting, hoping, praying that Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords will make a complete recovery. She is walking with help; speaking single words. A long, difficult process and she is already in the top 5 per cent. Already a miracle, by some standards. Sometimes we have to adjust our expectations without attaching disappointment. We have to hope for a complete recovery but not be disappointment if it's not. FROM JACK: Sometimes small steps are incredibly big steps. People like Gabby and Jennifer encourage the rest of us as we fight our own battles out of the spotlight. MORE FROM TS: I guess sometimes we can boil many of the philosophies into the words, "every journey begins with one small step" FROM JACK: Yes, those newlyweds have a journey before them....as do all newlyweds. I think it's good that we only have to take one step at a time, without seeing the road ahead.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: The story was an amazing one...and Jennifer is an amazing person! All She needed was the faith of a mustard seed. FROM JACK: The Finns have a word that describes her determination ...SISU! To the Finnish people, sisu has a mystical, almost magical meaning. Sisu (pronounced - see'-soo) is a unique Finnish concept. It is a Finnish term that can be roughly translated into English as strength of will, determination, perseverance, and acting rationally in the face of adversity. It also means...GUTS. MORE FROM OUTHOUSE: Thank you for the new knowledge. Maybe SISU will be a new word in my vocabulary. I would say Jennifer had Sisu!
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: Truly inspirational!!!! FROM JACK: Jesus said to the man, "Take up your bed and walk." The bedridden man had to believe that he could do it, before he did it.
"Change your thoughts and you change your world."
— Norman Vincent Peale: Was a minister and author of inspirational books
FROM MOLINER CF: And God bless the boyfriend who stuck with her! FROM JACK: ...and the husband who, after the ceremony, scooped her up in his arms and carried her back down the aisle of the church. MORE FROM CF: Marvelous, heartwarming story. FROM JACK: There are others out there, waiting to be told. Some make the "news," and others don't.
FROM JT IN ILLINOIS: My goal for Easter Sunday was to walk to communion without walker, cane or holding on to Max (my wife)-- I did it !! FROM JACK: Hallelujah.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: What a triumph for her!~! I had the video series of Bill Moyers (aired first on TV) about how powerful the Mind is over Matter (Can't recall the exact title, but it was amazing what the mind could control!) I think there is a level of communicating that we haven't even touched yet. I am fascinated by the experiments at Drake U. of people sending mental images of, say a bowl of fruit, or a carton of eggs, and having people in another part of the world receiving the image, and drawing it. I'm sure thought-transference is entirely possible. We never stop evolving, do we?! FROM JACK: When the explorer Marco Polo returned from a 24-year trek to the Orient, people had a hard time believing him when he told of all that he had seen. He responded, "...and I haven't told the half of it." The mind is more amazing that we can ever imagine.
FROM JC IN HONG KONG: "All things are possible with God", is a better one. ;-) FROM JACK: I see that you're into Possibility Thinking....and believing. MORE FROM JC (NOT THE FAMOUS JC): Possibility Thinking ... watching that video reminded me of the occasional need of 5 loaves and 2 fishes. Or was it the other way around? I forgot to give you the instigator video, worldslastchance. FROM JACK: I looked at the site. I buy into the warning that we should always be ready for the end of life, because no one knows the day nor the hour. Apocalyptic thinking doesn't scare me. AND MORE FROM JC: Ha, right, you're not scared of thinking! You liberals are always the first to run away from reality. FROM JACK: How can that be? Someone has described me as a realist.
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: I too was moved by the news clip I saw on her wedding. . . . and by the observation of her father. I’m reading Paul Allen’s IDEA MAN. My, what Paul and Bill Gates accomplished! They too set their young minds on something, which has changed all of our lives. FROM JACK: Idea Man sounds like a good book. I'll have to check into it. There should be a book like that for the clergy.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Winning Words 4/25/11
“Easter says you can put truth in a grave, but it won’t stay there.” (Clarence Hall) I chose to post this one today, because it speaks beyond the obvious. It raises the question: “What is truth?” It also reminds me of an adage I learned when I was a child: “The truth will out.” As we remember loved ones who have died, we are assured that death is not the end; there is something more. “O grave, where is thy victory?” ;-) Jack
FROM JS IN MICHIGAN: How can a Relativist speak of "Truth?" FROM JACK: The truth is....I'm an enigma wrapped in a riddle.
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: With all the perplexities of life, the things I don't know, my belief in the facts of this quote today, these WW's, is what I believe helps me to do and continue to do ethical behaviors. They give me strength and courage to do the thing I believe is right, just on the hope that the truth in the situation and in the people involved will eventually rise to the surface, everything will eventually come out into the light. But especially because I always have Jesus, who is no longer in the grave, with me, He did/does the right thing, I stumble along and try to do the right thing too.Truth is stronger than lies. Thanks again for the WW. I like Clarence Hall's way of putting it. FROM JACK: I'm intrigued by Arnold's movie with the title, "True Lies." Mmmmm!
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I'm just finishing a book given to me, titled "Heaven Is Real" by Todd Burpo, which seems a little too "pat' for me, but offers yet another insight into "Heaven", (experience of an almost 4 yr old) which the occasion of Easter brings to mind. Like "Soul Survivor" "90 Minutes in Heaven" etc, The great thinker, author and preacher, Oswald Chambers wrote of death,"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. I go to prepare a place for you, that where I am, there ye may be also" He says:"Jesus Christ is talking here about what no man knows but Himself, viz. the day after death, and He says, Don't be troubled about it!" ( He died much too young at 43...) Of truth, one of his observations was "The Bible does not reveal all truth; we have to find out scientific truth and common-sense truth for ourselves, but knowledge of the TRUTH , our Lord Himself, is only possible through the reception of the Holy Spirit." He constantly wanted us to realize that Jesus is not the proclaimer of truth, He IS the personification of it. He offers "deep stuff" to chew on, much less, live out!! FROM JACK: "Let not your heart be troubled....." Good advice for people who get worked up about discussing things/concepts that are neither true nor false, but are unknown.
FROM MOLINER CF: "The truth as I know it" fits in here somewhere. Please clarify. FROM JACK: There is truth and there is "ultimate truth." That which we see as "truth" is generally our opinion. St. Paul writes (1 Corinthians 13:9) "Now our knowledge is partial and incomplete, and even the gift of prophecy reveals only part of the whole picture!"
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Great Winning Words! Truth always out...somewhere along the line. The greatest truth...Jesus rose again and He did it for us, is the best truth! Amen! FROM JACK: As Edith Ann would say: "And that's the truth!"
FROM CA IN MICHIGAN: A blessed Easter to you my friend. You are so special to continue sending your winning words out to so many. I appreciate your efforts and read every message. God bless. FROM JACK: It's my pleasure, and it gives me a reason to get up.
FROM JT IN MINNESOTA: Our Pastor had a lasting message on Easter Sunday. In an "egg shell" he illustrated how jelly beans and the Easter Bunny don't cut it when we are in need. Then we need the real meaning of Easter. My two teen age grandsons were with me and as we discussed it later, they remembered the message. Thanks to you for your daily messages. I always appreciate them.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: We live with that assurance! FROM JACK: Blessed Assurance!
“Easter says you can put truth in a grave, but it won’t stay there.” (Clarence Hall) I chose to post this one today, because it speaks beyond the obvious. It raises the question: “What is truth?” It also reminds me of an adage I learned when I was a child: “The truth will out.” As we remember loved ones who have died, we are assured that death is not the end; there is something more. “O grave, where is thy victory?” ;-) Jack
FROM JS IN MICHIGAN: How can a Relativist speak of "Truth?" FROM JACK: The truth is....I'm an enigma wrapped in a riddle.
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: With all the perplexities of life, the things I don't know, my belief in the facts of this quote today, these WW's, is what I believe helps me to do and continue to do ethical behaviors. They give me strength and courage to do the thing I believe is right, just on the hope that the truth in the situation and in the people involved will eventually rise to the surface, everything will eventually come out into the light. But especially because I always have Jesus, who is no longer in the grave, with me, He did/does the right thing, I stumble along and try to do the right thing too.Truth is stronger than lies. Thanks again for the WW. I like Clarence Hall's way of putting it. FROM JACK: I'm intrigued by Arnold's movie with the title, "True Lies." Mmmmm!
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I'm just finishing a book given to me, titled "Heaven Is Real" by Todd Burpo, which seems a little too "pat' for me, but offers yet another insight into "Heaven", (experience of an almost 4 yr old) which the occasion of Easter brings to mind. Like "Soul Survivor" "90 Minutes in Heaven" etc, The great thinker, author and preacher, Oswald Chambers wrote of death,"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. I go to prepare a place for you, that where I am, there ye may be also" He says:"Jesus Christ is talking here about what no man knows but Himself, viz. the day after death, and He says, Don't be troubled about it!" ( He died much too young at 43...) Of truth, one of his observations was "The Bible does not reveal all truth; we have to find out scientific truth and common-sense truth for ourselves, but knowledge of the TRUTH , our Lord Himself, is only possible through the reception of the Holy Spirit." He constantly wanted us to realize that Jesus is not the proclaimer of truth, He IS the personification of it. He offers "deep stuff" to chew on, much less, live out!! FROM JACK: "Let not your heart be troubled....." Good advice for people who get worked up about discussing things/concepts that are neither true nor false, but are unknown.
FROM MOLINER CF: "The truth as I know it" fits in here somewhere. Please clarify. FROM JACK: There is truth and there is "ultimate truth." That which we see as "truth" is generally our opinion. St. Paul writes (1 Corinthians 13:9) "Now our knowledge is partial and incomplete, and even the gift of prophecy reveals only part of the whole picture!"
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Great Winning Words! Truth always out...somewhere along the line. The greatest truth...Jesus rose again and He did it for us, is the best truth! Amen! FROM JACK: As Edith Ann would say: "And that's the truth!"
FROM CA IN MICHIGAN: A blessed Easter to you my friend. You are so special to continue sending your winning words out to so many. I appreciate your efforts and read every message. God bless. FROM JACK: It's my pleasure, and it gives me a reason to get up.
FROM JT IN MINNESOTA: Our Pastor had a lasting message on Easter Sunday. In an "egg shell" he illustrated how jelly beans and the Easter Bunny don't cut it when we are in need. Then we need the real meaning of Easter. My two teen age grandsons were with me and as we discussed it later, they remembered the message. Thanks to you for your daily messages. I always appreciate them.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: We live with that assurance! FROM JACK: Blessed Assurance!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Winning Words 4/22/11
“Everyone says forgiveness is a lovely idea, until they have something to forgive.” (C.S. Lewis) The Lord’s Prayer is a difficult one. A mother told me how hard it was to pray, “Thy will be done,” as she stood beside her son’s casket. Maybe it’s not so difficult to pray, “Forgive us our trespasses,” until we come to the word, as. “as (in the way that) we forgive those who trespass against us.” CSL was right! ;-) Jack
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: Actually, when I'm praying "as we/I forgive those who trespass against us/me" I'm really realizing it's God I need to lean on to be able to forgive, He gives me any ability I finally have, and when I pray "forgive us/me our trespasses" I'm only believing that when God forgives He does so much stuff all around me/the situation, He is constantly doing so many actions, that finally seems like forgiveness is nestled in a big justice. For us people maybe for us forgiveness is a thing of mind and heart but I believe for God forgiveness is a matter of lots of material/physical/bodily stuff happening too and it's so much bigger and more whole and we're just in it. If we can see, inside of all of His plans for our lives and the whole world. FROM JACK: In praying, I let God "sweat the stuff---big and small."
FROM JL: In many ways it's easier to forgive others than oneself. Some people hold themselves to higher scrutiny than they do others. Either way, it's important to remember that forgiveness is not releasing another from their transgression, it's freeing the self from the longstanding emotions of anger, fear and pain. When we forgive others we free ourselves. FROM JACK: That's one way of looking at it. I've often thought that before forgiveness can be given, it has to be asked for....of God, of others, of self. Something can't be given to someone, if they refuse to accept it, or don't want it.
FROM CL IN MICHIGAN: Those words " As we forgive those who trespass against us" always seem to stick in my throat and have a harder time coming out as boldly as the rest. I guess it just proves how human we all are. FROM JACK: It underscores the fact that being a Christian is a "work in progress."
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I like this WW. Most good ideas are easy to be enthusiastic about in the abstract. Like: eat right, exercise, be financially responsible, and of course be forgiving--it is the application not the pronouncement that is difficult (at least in my life). FROM JACK: This thought just crossed my mind.....I wonder if it's hard for God to forgive?
FROM MK IN MICHIGAN: I choke on "Forgive us our trespasses" The Lords Prayer is the whole thing, the map for our life giving him glory, pleasing him through our daily walk. It is so tough! Take Care Jack, too early to say Happy Easter, have a blessed weekend, see you next week! FROM JACK: If we say, "Happy Easter," is it OK to say, "Happy Good Friday?" I suppose it is, if we call this Friday, "Good." Good, because all the events of the life of Jesus are meant for us, because God loves us. Life is tough, but God is with us always.
SENT BY SG IN MICHIGAN: I Believe.....That it isn't always enough, to be forgiven by others. Sometimes, you have to learn to forgive yourself.
FROM BF IN MICHIGAN: This is a good one...especially TODAY! Have a wonderful holiday weekend. FROM JACK: I'm glad that you noticed the connection with Good Friday.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: Absolutely! That's why Easter is So meningful. May "Christ is Risen" resonate throughout your house this coming Sunday...and each day following! FROM JACK: The shout, "Christ is risen" is one of our household customs, with the answer, "He is risen, indeed."
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: At our service last night confession and forgiveness was the emphasis as the service began, then. in the sermon we were directed to the gospel which was read which spoke of the new commandment which our Lord gave us, and we were reminded that their was much which we needed to be forgiven . . . for we have not just broken the 10 commandments, but the great commandment which our Lord proclaimed. A very moving service, concluded with the supper our Lord shared with his disciples. FROM JACK: The old, old story is forever new.
FOM OUTHOUSE JUDY: It's hard to forgive someone who caused great pain in your life and doesn't want forgiveness. You must give it anyway so YOU don't suffer with the pain and guilt. After all, the ones who put Jesus on the cross never asked for forgiveness, but He asked for forgiveness for them anyway! FROM JACK: Thanks for your insight on "forgiveness" expressed from the cross. Any "real" forgiveness is hard.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I LOVE C.S. Lewis. I just re-read The Screw-tape letters recently, and also a quote form R.Scott Colglazier, Sr. pastor of First Congregational Church in Los Angeles: "Forgiveness is not condoning; Nor is it even repairing what has been broken, though often that is possible. Forgiveness isn't really about the other person at all. Forgiveness is deciding that you need to make peace with a personal situation. You forgive so you can get on with your life." I think this is true...you do it for yourself, and put it behind you and go on. Great for your mental health! :-) Good quote, as usual! FROM JACK: Your comment about often putting the forgiveness emphasis on the other person is so true. Forgiveness (as in the case of God) begins with a willingness to forgive.
“Everyone says forgiveness is a lovely idea, until they have something to forgive.” (C.S. Lewis) The Lord’s Prayer is a difficult one. A mother told me how hard it was to pray, “Thy will be done,” as she stood beside her son’s casket. Maybe it’s not so difficult to pray, “Forgive us our trespasses,” until we come to the word, as. “as (in the way that) we forgive those who trespass against us.” CSL was right! ;-) Jack
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: Actually, when I'm praying "as we/I forgive those who trespass against us/me" I'm really realizing it's God I need to lean on to be able to forgive, He gives me any ability I finally have, and when I pray "forgive us/me our trespasses" I'm only believing that when God forgives He does so much stuff all around me/the situation, He is constantly doing so many actions, that finally seems like forgiveness is nestled in a big justice. For us people maybe for us forgiveness is a thing of mind and heart but I believe for God forgiveness is a matter of lots of material/physical/bodily stuff happening too and it's so much bigger and more whole and we're just in it. If we can see, inside of all of His plans for our lives and the whole world. FROM JACK: In praying, I let God "sweat the stuff---big and small."
FROM JL: In many ways it's easier to forgive others than oneself. Some people hold themselves to higher scrutiny than they do others. Either way, it's important to remember that forgiveness is not releasing another from their transgression, it's freeing the self from the longstanding emotions of anger, fear and pain. When we forgive others we free ourselves. FROM JACK: That's one way of looking at it. I've often thought that before forgiveness can be given, it has to be asked for....of God, of others, of self. Something can't be given to someone, if they refuse to accept it, or don't want it.
FROM CL IN MICHIGAN: Those words " As we forgive those who trespass against us" always seem to stick in my throat and have a harder time coming out as boldly as the rest. I guess it just proves how human we all are. FROM JACK: It underscores the fact that being a Christian is a "work in progress."
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I like this WW. Most good ideas are easy to be enthusiastic about in the abstract. Like: eat right, exercise, be financially responsible, and of course be forgiving--it is the application not the pronouncement that is difficult (at least in my life). FROM JACK: This thought just crossed my mind.....I wonder if it's hard for God to forgive?
FROM MK IN MICHIGAN: I choke on "Forgive us our trespasses" The Lords Prayer is the whole thing, the map for our life giving him glory, pleasing him through our daily walk. It is so tough! Take Care Jack, too early to say Happy Easter, have a blessed weekend, see you next week! FROM JACK: If we say, "Happy Easter," is it OK to say, "Happy Good Friday?" I suppose it is, if we call this Friday, "Good." Good, because all the events of the life of Jesus are meant for us, because God loves us. Life is tough, but God is with us always.
SENT BY SG IN MICHIGAN: I Believe.....That it isn't always enough, to be forgiven by others. Sometimes, you have to learn to forgive yourself.
FROM BF IN MICHIGAN: This is a good one...especially TODAY! Have a wonderful holiday weekend. FROM JACK: I'm glad that you noticed the connection with Good Friday.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: Absolutely! That's why Easter is So meningful. May "Christ is Risen" resonate throughout your house this coming Sunday...and each day following! FROM JACK: The shout, "Christ is risen" is one of our household customs, with the answer, "He is risen, indeed."
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: At our service last night confession and forgiveness was the emphasis as the service began, then. in the sermon we were directed to the gospel which was read which spoke of the new commandment which our Lord gave us, and we were reminded that their was much which we needed to be forgiven . . . for we have not just broken the 10 commandments, but the great commandment which our Lord proclaimed. A very moving service, concluded with the supper our Lord shared with his disciples. FROM JACK: The old, old story is forever new.
FOM OUTHOUSE JUDY: It's hard to forgive someone who caused great pain in your life and doesn't want forgiveness. You must give it anyway so YOU don't suffer with the pain and guilt. After all, the ones who put Jesus on the cross never asked for forgiveness, but He asked for forgiveness for them anyway! FROM JACK: Thanks for your insight on "forgiveness" expressed from the cross. Any "real" forgiveness is hard.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I LOVE C.S. Lewis. I just re-read The Screw-tape letters recently, and also a quote form R.Scott Colglazier, Sr. pastor of First Congregational Church in Los Angeles: "Forgiveness is not condoning; Nor is it even repairing what has been broken, though often that is possible. Forgiveness isn't really about the other person at all. Forgiveness is deciding that you need to make peace with a personal situation. You forgive so you can get on with your life." I think this is true...you do it for yourself, and put it behind you and go on. Great for your mental health! :-) Good quote, as usual! FROM JACK: Your comment about often putting the forgiveness emphasis on the other person is so true. Forgiveness (as in the case of God) begins with a willingness to forgive.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Winning Words 4/21/11
“A hungry schlemiel dreams of a plate of hot soup and hasn’t a spoon.” (Maurice Samuel) I happened to see this quote in the back of Forbes magazine where the subject was about “luck.” There are several definitions of a “schlemiel,” but in this case it describes someone who is always unlucky. Today, I’m thinking about the poor on our doorstep who have no spoon. Do you have one to share? ;-) Jack
FROM HS IN MICHIGAN: Did you ever see the movie Coming to America with eddie murphy? FROM JACK: I like EM movies, but I haven't seen that one. How does it relate to today"s quote. I suppose I could find out for myself. MORE FROM HS: Google Coming to America - spoon scene. FROM JACK: A Ha; A Ha!
FROM JRC IN MICHIGAN: I saw a good one the other day saying the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today. FROM JACK: Of course, that advice applies to more than just planting trees.
FROM JL IN MICHIGAN: I am so glad that I am receiving these. You have a real gift. Ever thought of a compilation in a book?!? FROM JACK: It's good to have you as a new reader. I'd like to get a reader from Montreal, too. Others have suggested working on a book. I've got the material, but not the motivation. Someone in advertising has suggested one of those daily tear-off calendars. I've got the material, but not.....
FROM PL IN MICHIGAN: I thought a schlemiel was a person who tries to eat his soup with a fork in his hand and the spoon is in front of him. Sometimes the answer is right in front of our faces but past practices prevent us from seeing it. So, why do we have the ability to feed the entire world but choose not to do so? How's that for starting an Optimist day! FROM JACK: Yours is a typical "take" on a schemiel, but I think that the Forbes one is good, because of the pathos...sort of the poor soul idea. Optimists start with the recognition of a problem, and then move to the question, "Now, what can I do to help alleviate the problem?"
FROM TS IN MICHIGAN: Schlemiel vs Schlemozel -- Story goes, the difference is, the Schlemiel is the person who spills the soup. The Schlemozel is the person he spills it on. FROM JACK: Not long ago, I heard a story about a Gentile woman who married a Jewish man. She found the Yiddish expressions used by him and his family so interesting that she took it upon herself to study and learn Yiddish. Yiddish has much to teach us, beyond the humor. MORE FROM TS: Unfortunately, it's a dying language. I can speak some, understand a little more. I have a few friends, children of survivors, who, like me, learned it as children and then stopped using it as we became adolescents and lost the tongue as our parents, too, became more fluent in English. "Red nischt," ("don't talk"), my mother would say to me if we were in a situation where she didn't want too much information revealed to whatever Gentile person we were talking to. The older I get, Jack, the more memories I have of my childhood and my parents' involvement in it. And, then the concept, I'm thinking of a time when I was younger than my own children. Always nice "conversing" with you. FROM JACK: A sheynem dank
FROM MOLINER CF: If a schlemiel didn't have bad luck, he wouldn't have any at all. What's a girl schlemiel called? Maybe there aren't any. FROM JACK: As with the rules of grammar, there are exceptions. In the English language, all nouns do not have to have gender. Were you asleep when that was taught in 3rd grade?
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: We all have a spoon to share...but do we...will we? It's funny because Lori and I have served at the Salvation Army kitchen in Mt. Clemens. One of the items they need are spoons! We shall provide some! FROM JACK: ....and some have spoons, but no soup. Do you remember this prayer by Robert Burns: “Some have meat, and cannot eat, And some cannot eat that want it; But we have meat, and we can eat - And let the Lord be thanked.”
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: What a great blog, today's sharing is so, so good for encouraging reflection and thinking. On to Netflix to request "Coming to America". FROM JACK: The Winning Words people are a great and varied group.
“A hungry schlemiel dreams of a plate of hot soup and hasn’t a spoon.” (Maurice Samuel) I happened to see this quote in the back of Forbes magazine where the subject was about “luck.” There are several definitions of a “schlemiel,” but in this case it describes someone who is always unlucky. Today, I’m thinking about the poor on our doorstep who have no spoon. Do you have one to share? ;-) Jack
FROM HS IN MICHIGAN: Did you ever see the movie Coming to America with eddie murphy? FROM JACK: I like EM movies, but I haven't seen that one. How does it relate to today"s quote. I suppose I could find out for myself. MORE FROM HS: Google Coming to America - spoon scene. FROM JACK: A Ha; A Ha!
FROM JRC IN MICHIGAN: I saw a good one the other day saying the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today. FROM JACK: Of course, that advice applies to more than just planting trees.
FROM JL IN MICHIGAN: I am so glad that I am receiving these. You have a real gift. Ever thought of a compilation in a book?!? FROM JACK: It's good to have you as a new reader. I'd like to get a reader from Montreal, too. Others have suggested working on a book. I've got the material, but not the motivation. Someone in advertising has suggested one of those daily tear-off calendars. I've got the material, but not.....
FROM PL IN MICHIGAN: I thought a schlemiel was a person who tries to eat his soup with a fork in his hand and the spoon is in front of him. Sometimes the answer is right in front of our faces but past practices prevent us from seeing it. So, why do we have the ability to feed the entire world but choose not to do so? How's that for starting an Optimist day! FROM JACK: Yours is a typical "take" on a schemiel, but I think that the Forbes one is good, because of the pathos...sort of the poor soul idea. Optimists start with the recognition of a problem, and then move to the question, "Now, what can I do to help alleviate the problem?"
FROM TS IN MICHIGAN: Schlemiel vs Schlemozel -- Story goes, the difference is, the Schlemiel is the person who spills the soup. The Schlemozel is the person he spills it on. FROM JACK: Not long ago, I heard a story about a Gentile woman who married a Jewish man. She found the Yiddish expressions used by him and his family so interesting that she took it upon herself to study and learn Yiddish. Yiddish has much to teach us, beyond the humor. MORE FROM TS: Unfortunately, it's a dying language. I can speak some, understand a little more. I have a few friends, children of survivors, who, like me, learned it as children and then stopped using it as we became adolescents and lost the tongue as our parents, too, became more fluent in English. "Red nischt," ("don't talk"), my mother would say to me if we were in a situation where she didn't want too much information revealed to whatever Gentile person we were talking to. The older I get, Jack, the more memories I have of my childhood and my parents' involvement in it. And, then the concept, I'm thinking of a time when I was younger than my own children. Always nice "conversing" with you. FROM JACK: A sheynem dank
FROM MOLINER CF: If a schlemiel didn't have bad luck, he wouldn't have any at all. What's a girl schlemiel called? Maybe there aren't any. FROM JACK: As with the rules of grammar, there are exceptions. In the English language, all nouns do not have to have gender. Were you asleep when that was taught in 3rd grade?
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: We all have a spoon to share...but do we...will we? It's funny because Lori and I have served at the Salvation Army kitchen in Mt. Clemens. One of the items they need are spoons! We shall provide some! FROM JACK: ....and some have spoons, but no soup. Do you remember this prayer by Robert Burns: “Some have meat, and cannot eat, And some cannot eat that want it; But we have meat, and we can eat - And let the Lord be thanked.”
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: What a great blog, today's sharing is so, so good for encouraging reflection and thinking. On to Netflix to request "Coming to America". FROM JACK: The Winning Words people are a great and varied group.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Winning Words 4/20/11
“All progress is precarious, and the solution to one problem brings us face to face with another
problem.” (MLK,Jr) I appreciated Gilda Radner as a comedienne, especially on SNL. But I admire her most of all for the way in which she faced the many difficulties that came in her lifetime. Her book, “It’s Always Something,” is a good one to read when problems seem overwhelming. ;-) Jack
FROM LG IN MICHIGAN: I agree, Jack! I read that many years ago... Quite a woman and quite a book! FROM JACK: Life has its challenges. There are books and people and our God who are there to help us cope.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: I have found that nothing comes easily. Even the simplest problem-solving uncovers another level of problems. Considering the hurdles we encounter with menial tasks, it's a miracle that we actually made it to the moon. FROM JACK: When writer Sydney Harris was alive, he would often write an column which he called: "Things I learned while looking up other things." It doesn't always have to be a problem.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Amen. Great WW. FROM JACK: Any words to which we can relate are good words (and sometimes, great). MORE FROM JON: My favorite so far. FROM JACK: I thought that it was interesting, in that the source was MLK Jr, but no one picked up on that. I deliberately changed the direction. I could easlity have made my commentary relate to him, but I wanted to make a different point.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I agree that Gilda Radner was a gifted person. I'll have to look that book up! Meredith Viera's husband (she is co-anchor of the TODAY show) wrote a memorable book BLIND SIDED which made a real impression on me,. He was an internationally known news reporter who developed a disabling disease, and then was hit with colon cancer. Excellent read! I just can't bring up his name right now!! The thing is, it IS progress, when we solve one problem, and can build on that to go on to the next "layer"! I believe I read that there was more change in technology in the past century, than in all the centuries combined that went before. My grandfather who bought the first "Model-T" car in his small town, was blown away when a man walked on the moon, in his lifetime! FROM JACK: Everyone has a "life" story when you peel back the layers. Yours is an interesting one, and mine is too (at least, to me).
FROM LK IN OHIO: How about Lynn's corollary...."problems are also precarious. God offers hope for renewal when perhaps least expected, and in the least forseen ways." Indeed, the promise of Easter. Just had a great trip to Normandy(Omaha Beach, etc.)/Brittany(Mt. St. Michel), France with my youngest son, Jeff. A truly MOVING experience! FROM JACK: Oh, the stories to be told (and heard) on the other "shore."
FROM YOOPER NANCY: I THINK I'M GOING TO CHECK HER BOOK OUT AT THE LIBRARY (I HOPE). GILDA WAS A SUPER LADY...I'M IN A VERY HAPPY MODE...OUR OLDEST - KARIN IS FLYING HERE FROM RAPID CITY FOR 5 DAYS. (SOCIAL WORKER FOR BIRTH TO 3 SPECIAL NEEDS.) FROM JACK: Ask social worker, Karin, what she thinks about these WWs. She probably has some stories to tell.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: We all know how true that is. When you get one thing fixed, something else will need your attention. And it is not just one thing at a time that happens. It is no big
deal as long as the problem can be fixed, like a leaky roof. A health problem is another thing
altogether, but it is amazing all of the progress on the health front, like pacemakers. FROM JACK: I remember Rosemary Clooney singing: "This Old House."
This old house is getting shaky
This old house is getting old
This old house lets in the rain and
This old house lets in the cold
On my knees I'm getting chilly
But I feel no fear or pain
'Cause I see an angel peeking through
A broken window pane
FROM MOLINER CF: Gilda was and still is my favorite comedienne. Not only for her humor but her courage. I YouTube her regularly. FROM JACK: Stories of courage tend to be stories that are inspirational. Many comics have pathos in their lives.
“All progress is precarious, and the solution to one problem brings us face to face with another
problem.” (MLK,Jr) I appreciated Gilda Radner as a comedienne, especially on SNL. But I admire her most of all for the way in which she faced the many difficulties that came in her lifetime. Her book, “It’s Always Something,” is a good one to read when problems seem overwhelming. ;-) Jack
FROM LG IN MICHIGAN: I agree, Jack! I read that many years ago... Quite a woman and quite a book! FROM JACK: Life has its challenges. There are books and people and our God who are there to help us cope.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: I have found that nothing comes easily. Even the simplest problem-solving uncovers another level of problems. Considering the hurdles we encounter with menial tasks, it's a miracle that we actually made it to the moon. FROM JACK: When writer Sydney Harris was alive, he would often write an column which he called: "Things I learned while looking up other things." It doesn't always have to be a problem.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Amen. Great WW. FROM JACK: Any words to which we can relate are good words (and sometimes, great). MORE FROM JON: My favorite so far. FROM JACK: I thought that it was interesting, in that the source was MLK Jr, but no one picked up on that. I deliberately changed the direction. I could easlity have made my commentary relate to him, but I wanted to make a different point.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I agree that Gilda Radner was a gifted person. I'll have to look that book up! Meredith Viera's husband (she is co-anchor of the TODAY show) wrote a memorable book BLIND SIDED which made a real impression on me,. He was an internationally known news reporter who developed a disabling disease, and then was hit with colon cancer. Excellent read! I just can't bring up his name right now!! The thing is, it IS progress, when we solve one problem, and can build on that to go on to the next "layer"! I believe I read that there was more change in technology in the past century, than in all the centuries combined that went before. My grandfather who bought the first "Model-T" car in his small town, was blown away when a man walked on the moon, in his lifetime! FROM JACK: Everyone has a "life" story when you peel back the layers. Yours is an interesting one, and mine is too (at least, to me).
FROM LK IN OHIO: How about Lynn's corollary...."problems are also precarious. God offers hope for renewal when perhaps least expected, and in the least forseen ways." Indeed, the promise of Easter. Just had a great trip to Normandy(Omaha Beach, etc.)/Brittany(Mt. St. Michel), France with my youngest son, Jeff. A truly MOVING experience! FROM JACK: Oh, the stories to be told (and heard) on the other "shore."
FROM YOOPER NANCY: I THINK I'M GOING TO CHECK HER BOOK OUT AT THE LIBRARY (I HOPE). GILDA WAS A SUPER LADY...I'M IN A VERY HAPPY MODE...OUR OLDEST - KARIN IS FLYING HERE FROM RAPID CITY FOR 5 DAYS. (SOCIAL WORKER FOR BIRTH TO 3 SPECIAL NEEDS.) FROM JACK: Ask social worker, Karin, what she thinks about these WWs. She probably has some stories to tell.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: We all know how true that is. When you get one thing fixed, something else will need your attention. And it is not just one thing at a time that happens. It is no big
deal as long as the problem can be fixed, like a leaky roof. A health problem is another thing
altogether, but it is amazing all of the progress on the health front, like pacemakers. FROM JACK: I remember Rosemary Clooney singing: "This Old House."
This old house is getting shaky
This old house is getting old
This old house lets in the rain and
This old house lets in the cold
On my knees I'm getting chilly
But I feel no fear or pain
'Cause I see an angel peeking through
A broken window pane
FROM MOLINER CF: Gilda was and still is my favorite comedienne. Not only for her humor but her courage. I YouTube her regularly. FROM JACK: Stories of courage tend to be stories that are inspirational. Many comics have pathos in their lives.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Winning Words 4/19/11
“Only your real friends will tell you that your face is dirty.” (Sicilian Proverb) Do you remember the song with the line, “For good times and bad times, that’s what friends are for?” I appreciate the times when my wife tells me that I have “coney sauce” on my face. Of course, what the Sicilians are saying is that we need friends who care enough to let us know when our thinking and behavior need adjustment. ;-) Jack
FROM RS IN MICHIGAN: A co-worker is that friend for me, and of course my husband. He REALLY keeps me in line! One “look” from that handsome face and I straighten up faster than when my mother did that to me! FROM JACK: "That's what friends are for...in good times and bad"...and for those times when we need to hear the truth. You're fortunate to have people like that in your life.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Perhaps our President has no friends that will tell him he has "coney sauce" on his face (his thinking and behavior) as he ignores basic math in his budget and deficit spending speeches. FROM JACK: It's not an easy job, being President of the United States, so I'm sure that all who have been elected, seek the advice of close friends (including wives). I know that I would.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: One of my best friends (Moline and Augie) tells of going to a very posh reception at U. of IN, where her husband was a professor, dressed to the nines, and indulging in a broccoli appetizer. She realized when she returned home that she had spent the entire evening with a green spritzle between her front teeth, smiling and conversing with many "Bigwigs"...she was aghast, and chided her husband for not alerting her about it, and his reply was, "I never noticed it..." Sometimes we don't pay attention, or it is that old phrase from Silas Marner, "the contempt bred by myopic familiarity"?! :-) It IS great to have our nearest and dearest,
whether friend or relative alert us when we need to make a correction!! Usually always appreciated... at least in retrospect! FROM JACK: You've brought to light another point. Sometimes, our closest friends see through things that others (even ourselves) see as "flaws." So what, if there's "coney sauce" on our face? What difference does it make? Well, maybe it does make a good story. "Do you remember when.....?"
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: My closest friend, my husband, doesn't "see" flaws in me at all. That is a blessing and a curse. I can walk around with something on my face or on my clothes and he doesn't let me know because he doesn't "see" it....he really doesn't! But, I can overlook that problem because he also overlooks my "real" flaws. FROM JACK: There are flaws and there flaws. Sometimes, we are our most severe critic, seeing flaws that really are only in our mind.
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: Or our appearance needs adjustment – your hair is messed, your shoes need
polish, your zipper is down . . . FROM JACK: An interesting observation today.....Most of the e-mail talk has been on the "physical," with lesser talk about giving/receiving "criticism" about behavior and thinking.
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: Actually, I believe that people who don't even like you and like to criticize you will tell you you have a dirty face or an extra long nose or big ears or your hairs sticking up funny, whatever. All the people who are embarrassed to see you like that and don't want you to be embarrassed have to have this interior conflict whether or not to say something or probably they are just wishing someone else will say something. That's why we need a lot of mirrors and windows and shiny reflective surfaces around. FROM JACK: Do you remember back to grade school days? Those who didn't like you, or were jealous, were the ones who pointed out "flaws" in how you looked. Real friends were more interested in "who" you were.
“Only your real friends will tell you that your face is dirty.” (Sicilian Proverb) Do you remember the song with the line, “For good times and bad times, that’s what friends are for?” I appreciate the times when my wife tells me that I have “coney sauce” on my face. Of course, what the Sicilians are saying is that we need friends who care enough to let us know when our thinking and behavior need adjustment. ;-) Jack
FROM RS IN MICHIGAN: A co-worker is that friend for me, and of course my husband. He REALLY keeps me in line! One “look” from that handsome face and I straighten up faster than when my mother did that to me! FROM JACK: "That's what friends are for...in good times and bad"...and for those times when we need to hear the truth. You're fortunate to have people like that in your life.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Perhaps our President has no friends that will tell him he has "coney sauce" on his face (his thinking and behavior) as he ignores basic math in his budget and deficit spending speeches. FROM JACK: It's not an easy job, being President of the United States, so I'm sure that all who have been elected, seek the advice of close friends (including wives). I know that I would.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: One of my best friends (Moline and Augie) tells of going to a very posh reception at U. of IN, where her husband was a professor, dressed to the nines, and indulging in a broccoli appetizer. She realized when she returned home that she had spent the entire evening with a green spritzle between her front teeth, smiling and conversing with many "Bigwigs"...she was aghast, and chided her husband for not alerting her about it, and his reply was, "I never noticed it..." Sometimes we don't pay attention, or it is that old phrase from Silas Marner, "the contempt bred by myopic familiarity"?! :-) It IS great to have our nearest and dearest,
whether friend or relative alert us when we need to make a correction!! Usually always appreciated... at least in retrospect! FROM JACK: You've brought to light another point. Sometimes, our closest friends see through things that others (even ourselves) see as "flaws." So what, if there's "coney sauce" on our face? What difference does it make? Well, maybe it does make a good story. "Do you remember when.....?"
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: My closest friend, my husband, doesn't "see" flaws in me at all. That is a blessing and a curse. I can walk around with something on my face or on my clothes and he doesn't let me know because he doesn't "see" it....he really doesn't! But, I can overlook that problem because he also overlooks my "real" flaws. FROM JACK: There are flaws and there flaws. Sometimes, we are our most severe critic, seeing flaws that really are only in our mind.
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: Or our appearance needs adjustment – your hair is messed, your shoes need
polish, your zipper is down . . . FROM JACK: An interesting observation today.....Most of the e-mail talk has been on the "physical," with lesser talk about giving/receiving "criticism" about behavior and thinking.
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: Actually, I believe that people who don't even like you and like to criticize you will tell you you have a dirty face or an extra long nose or big ears or your hairs sticking up funny, whatever. All the people who are embarrassed to see you like that and don't want you to be embarrassed have to have this interior conflict whether or not to say something or probably they are just wishing someone else will say something. That's why we need a lot of mirrors and windows and shiny reflective surfaces around. FROM JACK: Do you remember back to grade school days? Those who didn't like you, or were jealous, were the ones who pointed out "flaws" in how you looked. Real friends were more interested in "who" you were.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Winning Words 4/18/11
“Peace starts with a smile.” (God’s Post-It note – sent by RC) I read this week that people will be willing, 86% of the time, to strike up a conversation with someone who is smiling. Successful salespeople are aware of this. Peace--in the world, at work and in the home--can start with a smile. Smile at someone today and see what happens. Of course, 14% of the time, it can turn out negatively. ;-) Jack
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: it's always worth the try!
FROM JACK: I remember this poem, but not the author.
When the weather suits you not,
Try Smiling
When the coffee isnt hot
Try smiling
When your neighboors dont do right,
Or Your Relatives All Fight,
Sure 'This Hard, But Then You Might
Try Smiling
Doesn't Change The Things, Of Course
Just Smiling
But It Cannot Make Them Worse
Just Smiling
And It Seems To Help Your Case,
Brightens Up A Gloomy Place,
Then, It Sort O' Rests Your Face
Just Smiling
FROM EMT SINGS IN MICHIGAN: Last week I waited at the curb as the trash men were coming. The driver got out scowling and said "What can I do for you?" I said I had just wanted to tell them that it was a beautiful day and to have "a good one". Today they came while I was still trying to get a bag secured. He got out, smiled, said "let me help" and "Have a nice day". FROM JACK: You see...It works! At least, it does 86% of the time.
FROM MOLINER CF: As my Daddy used to say, "A smile is a frown turned upside down." It's easier to smile...it takes fewer muscles than a frown. FROM JACK: An article in the NY Times says that it takes 37 muscles to frown and 22 to smile. "Snopes" says that the number is undetermined, but that whatever it is, it takes fewer to smile.
FROM ME IN NEWPORT BEACH: Years ago my Father told me to “follow a smile” when walking into a crowded room. I follow that advice, or at least think of it every single time I walk into a crowded room and have the added benefit of thinking of my Father every time. I have passed that advice along to my children and to young lawyers in our firm attending a bar meeting or event for the first time. FROM JACK: I can see it now.....that wide smile that was a characteristic of your dad. Thanks for bringing back that memory of him.
FROM AM IN MICHIGAN: There is a saying that the most important thing one wears is their expression. I believe there is truth in that. I mention this to the grandchildren when they shop. FROM JACK: A "pasted-on" smile doesn't work for me. It has to come from within....a smile like yours.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: But we won't talk about the negative! (smile) When I was in Japan for a month in 1995, I visited the Peace Memorial Museum of Hiroshima, which of course you can hardly do without shedding tears...a guide smilingly patted my back, and said, "Don't cry, the outcome of this is good.." she then explained that Hiroshima is now called "The City Of Peace", and sent envoys of peace out to the world wherever there is conflict, to try to prevent war. In the testimony of the survivors, which is gruesome in the extreme, is their plea to never use atomic bombs again, and to always work for peace at all costs. We maintain a hospital there to this day, which cares for successive victims of radiation, and birth defects. If only a tour of this Peace Museum would be mandatory for every living being, I do believe that wars would be eradicated! It
is an eloquent witness for PEACE! So we smile on, and do our bit to promote peace and understanding!! I've housed students and faculty from Ashikaga, Japan, and Sarah has good friends there. FROM JACK: A headline in the newspaper captured my attention this morning: "Clinton visits Japan to show support for our ally." Ally! Some of us can remember the "Japs" when headlines referred to them as the enemy. I smile at how life has a way of bringing about change.
MORE FROM OAKS: Your poem "Try Smiling" sounds like Edgar Guest. He was one of Bill's favorites,
with his homey poems. FROM JACK: I thought the same thing when it didn't list an author. In searching I came across this one: Take Home A Smile by Edgar Guest
Take home a smile; forget the petty cares,
The dull, grim grind of all the day's affairs;
The day is done, come be yourself awhile:
To-night, to those who wait, take home a smile.
Take home a smile; don't scatter grief and gloom
Where laughter and light hearts should always bloom;
What though you've traveled many a dusty mile,
Footsore and weary, still take home a smile.
Take home a smile -- it is not much to do,
But much it means to them who wait for you;
You can be brave for such a little while;
The day of doubt is done -- take home a smile.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: The odds are pretty good. I'll always take them. FROM JACK: Now, if the Lottery had those odds, a lot of people would be rich.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Smiles can change a person's outlook each day! And giving smiles away is
priceless! And it's free!!! Go Wings FROM JACK: When the Red Wings (and Tigers) lose, my smile turns upside down 14% of the time.
FRFOM FM IN WISCONSIN: I’m smiling . . . heeding your WW . . . and hope you can sense my smile, thankful as I am for getting your WW again! FROM JACK: The Swedes have a saying (translated): "To be away is good, but to be home is best." The modern translation: "To be in Alabama is good, but to be in Wisconsin is best."
FROM LISALOVESFROGS: No, not negatively, silly, they just might not talk back with you, that's all!! You know me, I smile a lot, and I have rarely received negativity back!! FROM JACK: You're right about that. You are known for your smile...and for your giggle...and for your serious side, too.
“Peace starts with a smile.” (God’s Post-It note – sent by RC) I read this week that people will be willing, 86% of the time, to strike up a conversation with someone who is smiling. Successful salespeople are aware of this. Peace--in the world, at work and in the home--can start with a smile. Smile at someone today and see what happens. Of course, 14% of the time, it can turn out negatively. ;-) Jack
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: it's always worth the try!
FROM JACK: I remember this poem, but not the author.
When the weather suits you not,
Try Smiling
When the coffee isnt hot
Try smiling
When your neighboors dont do right,
Or Your Relatives All Fight,
Sure 'This Hard, But Then You Might
Try Smiling
Doesn't Change The Things, Of Course
Just Smiling
But It Cannot Make Them Worse
Just Smiling
And It Seems To Help Your Case,
Brightens Up A Gloomy Place,
Then, It Sort O' Rests Your Face
Just Smiling
FROM EMT SINGS IN MICHIGAN: Last week I waited at the curb as the trash men were coming. The driver got out scowling and said "What can I do for you?" I said I had just wanted to tell them that it was a beautiful day and to have "a good one". Today they came while I was still trying to get a bag secured. He got out, smiled, said "let me help" and "Have a nice day". FROM JACK: You see...It works! At least, it does 86% of the time.
FROM MOLINER CF: As my Daddy used to say, "A smile is a frown turned upside down." It's easier to smile...it takes fewer muscles than a frown. FROM JACK: An article in the NY Times says that it takes 37 muscles to frown and 22 to smile. "Snopes" says that the number is undetermined, but that whatever it is, it takes fewer to smile.
FROM ME IN NEWPORT BEACH: Years ago my Father told me to “follow a smile” when walking into a crowded room. I follow that advice, or at least think of it every single time I walk into a crowded room and have the added benefit of thinking of my Father every time. I have passed that advice along to my children and to young lawyers in our firm attending a bar meeting or event for the first time. FROM JACK: I can see it now.....that wide smile that was a characteristic of your dad. Thanks for bringing back that memory of him.
FROM AM IN MICHIGAN: There is a saying that the most important thing one wears is their expression. I believe there is truth in that. I mention this to the grandchildren when they shop. FROM JACK: A "pasted-on" smile doesn't work for me. It has to come from within....a smile like yours.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: But we won't talk about the negative! (smile) When I was in Japan for a month in 1995, I visited the Peace Memorial Museum of Hiroshima, which of course you can hardly do without shedding tears...a guide smilingly patted my back, and said, "Don't cry, the outcome of this is good.." she then explained that Hiroshima is now called "The City Of Peace", and sent envoys of peace out to the world wherever there is conflict, to try to prevent war. In the testimony of the survivors, which is gruesome in the extreme, is their plea to never use atomic bombs again, and to always work for peace at all costs. We maintain a hospital there to this day, which cares for successive victims of radiation, and birth defects. If only a tour of this Peace Museum would be mandatory for every living being, I do believe that wars would be eradicated! It
is an eloquent witness for PEACE! So we smile on, and do our bit to promote peace and understanding!! I've housed students and faculty from Ashikaga, Japan, and Sarah has good friends there. FROM JACK: A headline in the newspaper captured my attention this morning: "Clinton visits Japan to show support for our ally." Ally! Some of us can remember the "Japs" when headlines referred to them as the enemy. I smile at how life has a way of bringing about change.
MORE FROM OAKS: Your poem "Try Smiling" sounds like Edgar Guest. He was one of Bill's favorites,
with his homey poems. FROM JACK: I thought the same thing when it didn't list an author. In searching I came across this one: Take Home A Smile by Edgar Guest
Take home a smile; forget the petty cares,
The dull, grim grind of all the day's affairs;
The day is done, come be yourself awhile:
To-night, to those who wait, take home a smile.
Take home a smile; don't scatter grief and gloom
Where laughter and light hearts should always bloom;
What though you've traveled many a dusty mile,
Footsore and weary, still take home a smile.
Take home a smile -- it is not much to do,
But much it means to them who wait for you;
You can be brave for such a little while;
The day of doubt is done -- take home a smile.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: The odds are pretty good. I'll always take them. FROM JACK: Now, if the Lottery had those odds, a lot of people would be rich.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Smiles can change a person's outlook each day! And giving smiles away is
priceless! And it's free!!! Go Wings FROM JACK: When the Red Wings (and Tigers) lose, my smile turns upside down 14% of the time.
FRFOM FM IN WISCONSIN: I’m smiling . . . heeding your WW . . . and hope you can sense my smile, thankful as I am for getting your WW again! FROM JACK: The Swedes have a saying (translated): "To be away is good, but to be home is best." The modern translation: "To be in Alabama is good, but to be in Wisconsin is best."
FROM LISALOVESFROGS: No, not negatively, silly, they just might not talk back with you, that's all!! You know me, I smile a lot, and I have rarely received negativity back!! FROM JACK: You're right about that. You are known for your smile...and for your giggle...and for your serious side, too.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Winning Words 4/15/11
“The truth is more important than the facts.” (Frank Lloyd Wright) I’d hate to be a judge, and I’ve never served on a jury. Is right or wrong simply based on the facts, or is there a truth outside of the evidence? A few years ago there was a book, Situation Ethics, which caused much controversy. Are there certain behaviors that can be wrong and right at the same time? Maybe you want to think about this today. ;-) Jack
FROM RI IN BOSTON: Right, wrong, and truth are all manipulated. They change as human attitudes change over time. Regarding "certain behaviors that can be wrong and right at the same time", how about WikiLeaks? As for FLW, he more or less wrote the rulebook as it suited him. FROM JACK: Not only Frank LW, but we all tend to write (or interpret) the rule book to suit our own agenda. Yes, it called, "manipulation."
FROM FROM YOOPER FLICKA: WE WERE IN RACINE,WI BEFORE WE MOVED TO MARQUETTE. IT HAD SO MANY OF FLW'S BUILDINGS....EVEN JOHNSON WAX, ETC AND 5 GOLF COURSES... ON AND ON. SORRY TO GET OFF THE TRACK. FROM JACK: No, you're on the right track. The beauty of art and architecture is in the eye of the beholder. My eye says that Frank's style is pleasing to me, but some people don't always agree with me. And, that's the truth!
FROM CAROL IN MICHIGAN: Jesus said, "I am the truth, and the light and the way." So, the truth is always more important than the facts, because truth is God. FROM JACK: Christians say that "it's a fact" that Jesus is God. So is the truth a fact?
FROM MOLINER CF: "The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth" may shed some light on it. I doubt that there is a fact that is not true but until we have all of the facts, we can't arrive at the truth. FROM JACK: Is there such a thing as the WHOLE truth?
FROM DS IN CALIFORNIA: I have always believed that the "law" (as I was taught in pre-law) has nothing to do with "common sense". I believe that more and more as I get older. Also, I have found that under certain circumstances I believe in Situation Ethics. (Is that being redundant?) FROM JACK: Some people have problems with the Ten Commandments, because they take them literally. In seminary, just in Law School, the question needs to be asked, "What does the law mean?" Often, the answer is, "It depends on the situation, hence, "Situation Ethics."
FROM LP IN MICHIGAN: Having just taught a session on hypothesis testing yesterday I'd have to say that facts are usually glimpes at a larger truth. Statistical testing is much like the jury system. We assume no association until we have sufficient evidence from our study. However, a study sample is still only gives a glimpse at the truth we desire from the whole population... and the facts of the sample can differ when compared to the truth of the population. I bet you didn't know statistics was so philosphical. :) FROM JACK: As a Philosophy Major, everything is philosophical...even statistics. Thanks for your insight. You seem to be a situational thinker.
FROM PRPH IN MINNESOTA: i read Situation Ethics in seminary, about 40 years ago! uffda. where does the time go?? FROM JACK: I went searching for my book. "Uffda. Where did the book go?" Well, I remember what the book had to say, and I think that it's relevant in today's world. Seminarians should still be reading it.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I remember that book, Situation Ethics, from years and years ago. I think Bill was just in seminary, or at least a new pastor (He graduated from Seminary at age 30...). He thought it made a lot of sense! So much of what is right or wrong is imbued by our cultural background...I'll never forget talking to a Christian woman in India, and she confessed that she had "taken" two handfuls of rice from a marketplace, because her children were hungry, and they had no food....did I think God would forgive her?? (One of the ten commandments, "thou shall not steal"... ) I assured her that God who loves her, knew of her need, and understood her desperation, and of course could forgive her. We are his children, the very hairs on our head
are numbered; If one of her children were in such a situation would she not forgive THEM?! She seemed
relieved, though why she thought anyone from affluent America would understand this situational ethic and could pass judgement on it, was beyond me. What right had I??! I felt convicted because I didn't have to wrestle with such fine tuning of "right" and "wrong" in my comfortable living of the American Dream!! Truth, like beauty, is often in the eye of the beholder.As the King of Siam would say, (In The King And I) "Tiss a Puzzle!!!" FROM JACK: That's what I was trying to say.
“The truth is more important than the facts.” (Frank Lloyd Wright) I’d hate to be a judge, and I’ve never served on a jury. Is right or wrong simply based on the facts, or is there a truth outside of the evidence? A few years ago there was a book, Situation Ethics, which caused much controversy. Are there certain behaviors that can be wrong and right at the same time? Maybe you want to think about this today. ;-) Jack
FROM RI IN BOSTON: Right, wrong, and truth are all manipulated. They change as human attitudes change over time. Regarding "certain behaviors that can be wrong and right at the same time", how about WikiLeaks? As for FLW, he more or less wrote the rulebook as it suited him. FROM JACK: Not only Frank LW, but we all tend to write (or interpret) the rule book to suit our own agenda. Yes, it called, "manipulation."
FROM FROM YOOPER FLICKA: WE WERE IN RACINE,WI BEFORE WE MOVED TO MARQUETTE. IT HAD SO MANY OF FLW'S BUILDINGS....EVEN JOHNSON WAX, ETC AND 5 GOLF COURSES... ON AND ON. SORRY TO GET OFF THE TRACK. FROM JACK: No, you're on the right track. The beauty of art and architecture is in the eye of the beholder. My eye says that Frank's style is pleasing to me, but some people don't always agree with me. And, that's the truth!
FROM CAROL IN MICHIGAN: Jesus said, "I am the truth, and the light and the way." So, the truth is always more important than the facts, because truth is God. FROM JACK: Christians say that "it's a fact" that Jesus is God. So is the truth a fact?
FROM MOLINER CF: "The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth" may shed some light on it. I doubt that there is a fact that is not true but until we have all of the facts, we can't arrive at the truth. FROM JACK: Is there such a thing as the WHOLE truth?
FROM DS IN CALIFORNIA: I have always believed that the "law" (as I was taught in pre-law) has nothing to do with "common sense". I believe that more and more as I get older. Also, I have found that under certain circumstances I believe in Situation Ethics. (Is that being redundant?) FROM JACK: Some people have problems with the Ten Commandments, because they take them literally. In seminary, just in Law School, the question needs to be asked, "What does the law mean?" Often, the answer is, "It depends on the situation, hence, "Situation Ethics."
FROM LP IN MICHIGAN: Having just taught a session on hypothesis testing yesterday I'd have to say that facts are usually glimpes at a larger truth. Statistical testing is much like the jury system. We assume no association until we have sufficient evidence from our study. However, a study sample is still only gives a glimpse at the truth we desire from the whole population... and the facts of the sample can differ when compared to the truth of the population. I bet you didn't know statistics was so philosphical. :) FROM JACK: As a Philosophy Major, everything is philosophical...even statistics. Thanks for your insight. You seem to be a situational thinker.
FROM PRPH IN MINNESOTA: i read Situation Ethics in seminary, about 40 years ago! uffda. where does the time go?? FROM JACK: I went searching for my book. "Uffda. Where did the book go?" Well, I remember what the book had to say, and I think that it's relevant in today's world. Seminarians should still be reading it.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I remember that book, Situation Ethics, from years and years ago. I think Bill was just in seminary, or at least a new pastor (He graduated from Seminary at age 30...). He thought it made a lot of sense! So much of what is right or wrong is imbued by our cultural background...I'll never forget talking to a Christian woman in India, and she confessed that she had "taken" two handfuls of rice from a marketplace, because her children were hungry, and they had no food....did I think God would forgive her?? (One of the ten commandments, "thou shall not steal"... ) I assured her that God who loves her, knew of her need, and understood her desperation, and of course could forgive her. We are his children, the very hairs on our head
are numbered; If one of her children were in such a situation would she not forgive THEM?! She seemed
relieved, though why she thought anyone from affluent America would understand this situational ethic and could pass judgement on it, was beyond me. What right had I??! I felt convicted because I didn't have to wrestle with such fine tuning of "right" and "wrong" in my comfortable living of the American Dream!! Truth, like beauty, is often in the eye of the beholder.As the King of Siam would say, (In The King And I) "Tiss a Puzzle!!!" FROM JACK: That's what I was trying to say.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Winning Words 4/14/11
“Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, sometimes it rains.” (Nook LaLoosh in Bull Durham) It’s said by ballplayers that Bull Durham is the most authentic movie ever made about baseball. Joe Garagiola wrote a book, Baseball Is a Funny Game, which tells about some of the stuff that goes on among the players. However, Nook’s quote has a serious side to it, when you apply the words to life. ;-) Jack
FROM CL IN CALIFORNIA: Nice shout-out for Bull Durham, written and directed by my friend since 2nd grade, Oscar nominee Ron Shelton. FROM JACK: I'm impressed. I see that he also went to Westmont. One of these days I'm going to get Bull Durham in my movie collection. My father used to "roll his own" cigarettes, using Bull Durham tobacco, which came in a cloth pouch.
FROM MOLINE CF: Sometimes it's a good thing the game gets "rained out." It lets us reassess the game plan and maybe win after all. FROM JACK: I never liked rainouts. As a player or a spectator, I wanted the game to be played. Most of life is like a big, looooong rainout, without winning or losing determined until the very last inning of the very last game when Jesus comes in as the pinch-hitter.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: How true that is. Life goes on. The Rays were rained out last night but no chance of that tonight because they are playing in the dome. By the way, the weather is beautiful down here as usual. FROM JACK: Maybe it never rains in the dome, but the cowbells must be terribly irritating.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I received a Kindle from my kids for my birthday Tuesday...I'll have to comb the books I read for more gems of thought like , "Sometimes you win, ...rains". Can't argue with it, can you?! The thing is, these fall into perspective, as you age and this quote feels pretty philosophical, whether or not it is meant to be. If we're smart, we rejoice in the wins, learn from the losses, and accept the rain, hoping it brings some flowers! "A Pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity: An Optimist sees the opportunity in every
difficulty" ....compliments of Sir Winston Churchill. FROM JACK: That's a pretty nice birthday present. I suppose they all sang "the song" for you. Did you respond to "How old are you?" with the age response? With all the games major league teams schedule, I'm sure the players appreciate a rain day once in a while... like a snow day for teachers.
“Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, sometimes it rains.” (Nook LaLoosh in Bull Durham) It’s said by ballplayers that Bull Durham is the most authentic movie ever made about baseball. Joe Garagiola wrote a book, Baseball Is a Funny Game, which tells about some of the stuff that goes on among the players. However, Nook’s quote has a serious side to it, when you apply the words to life. ;-) Jack
FROM CL IN CALIFORNIA: Nice shout-out for Bull Durham, written and directed by my friend since 2nd grade, Oscar nominee Ron Shelton. FROM JACK: I'm impressed. I see that he also went to Westmont. One of these days I'm going to get Bull Durham in my movie collection. My father used to "roll his own" cigarettes, using Bull Durham tobacco, which came in a cloth pouch.
FROM MOLINE CF: Sometimes it's a good thing the game gets "rained out." It lets us reassess the game plan and maybe win after all. FROM JACK: I never liked rainouts. As a player or a spectator, I wanted the game to be played. Most of life is like a big, looooong rainout, without winning or losing determined until the very last inning of the very last game when Jesus comes in as the pinch-hitter.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: How true that is. Life goes on. The Rays were rained out last night but no chance of that tonight because they are playing in the dome. By the way, the weather is beautiful down here as usual. FROM JACK: Maybe it never rains in the dome, but the cowbells must be terribly irritating.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I received a Kindle from my kids for my birthday Tuesday...I'll have to comb the books I read for more gems of thought like , "Sometimes you win, ...rains". Can't argue with it, can you?! The thing is, these fall into perspective, as you age and this quote feels pretty philosophical, whether or not it is meant to be. If we're smart, we rejoice in the wins, learn from the losses, and accept the rain, hoping it brings some flowers! "A Pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity: An Optimist sees the opportunity in every
difficulty" ....compliments of Sir Winston Churchill. FROM JACK: That's a pretty nice birthday present. I suppose they all sang "the song" for you. Did you respond to "How old are you?" with the age response? With all the games major league teams schedule, I'm sure the players appreciate a rain day once in a while... like a snow day for teachers.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Winning Words 4/13/11
“A friend is one before whom I may think aloud.” (Ralph Waldo Emerson) I have a habit of referring to someone I know as “a friend of mine.” One of my children will correct me (as children sometimes do) by saying, “That’s an acquaintance, not a friend.” RWE had it right, too. Most of us have just a few friends with whom we can have “safe” conversations. Do friends on Facebook count as friends?. ;-) Jack
FROM BG IN MICHIGAN: You are my friend, Jack. FROM JACK: I appreciate our "think aloud" times together. MORE FROM BG: Ditto. They are a life line for me…
FROM ILLINOIS LIZ: Friends on Facebook just "count," I think. It's not only the kids who like to see how many friends they can "rack up." FROM JACK: I have a Facebook account, but I don't how many friends (if any) are listed on it. I do know that I have "friends" like you on my Winning Words address list. MORE FROM LIZ: Me, too. And I am amazed at the things people write for the world to see!
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: My mother-in-law told me, after my father-in-law died, that the hardest thing was that she didn't have someone she could "gossip" to. It took her a while to learn she could "gossip" to us others. And actually whatever things she says aren't all that ugly. They had a very good marriage. I've found a weekly prayer evening at church with God and a few friends to also be a safe place to think aloud and ask for help for all the people we need to talk about. FROM JACK: The Quakers, aka Friends, call their gatherings "Friends Meetings." It seems like you've found something like that at your church.
FROM EB: Ain't that the truth! FROM JACK: I sometimes wonder if your request to send WWs to leaders in your congregation ever results in discussions on a particular subject. This simply a "wondering" and not necessarily a request for an answer.
FROM DB IN MICHIGAN: I totally agree! p.s. its also important for us to remember who our true friends are, and to give them the extra special treatment and respect that they deserve! I cannot understand why people are more concerned with giving "their best" to strangers and not to "friends" and family. FROM JACK: Often it's a "situation" that causes a separation of the sheep from the goats, the real friends and the others. P.S. We'll never be able to understand the "why" of some personalities, but we can control our own behavior (except in those times described by St. Paul: "The good that I would, I do not; and the evil that I would not, that I do.") Life can be frustrating, at times.
FROM A FRIEND WHO TELLS IT LIKE IT IS: .....thanks" friend",you've gotten it right. If you ever "published"
some of the s--t I've either shared, emailed you or spoken in conversations with you, I'd be either arrested, defrocked, certainly embarrased .......but the bright side of my current memory deficit is that I can't remember most of it. FROM JACK: ...and neither can I.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: BFF is the sort of new phrase that made the rounds down here a few years ago. The main difference today is that families move so often compared to our generation growing up. FROM JACK: We have to understand that Hello and Goodbye come pretty close together these days.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: I would doubt it....tho I don't have one. Friends are very few; Facebook has a lot. FROM JACK: It's pretty hard to "think aloud" on Facebook.
FROM MOLINER CF: FaceBook is a good way to stay in touch with strangers. FROM JACK: Yo-Yo Ma said: "Good things happen when you meet strangers. " Someone I know met his wife, sight unseen, on the internet, and it worked out.
FROM AM IN MICHIGAN: To paraphrase RWE, if one has one good friend in a lifetime, he is fortunate. I must wander through Emerson and find those lines. FROM JACK: I did a quick search, but didn't find it. Ralph did leave us with many good sayings, though.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I don't do facebook, but I remember someone saying that if you have five good friends in a lifetime, you are blessed...I feel I have been blessed! But your children are right...most of our interaction is more with acquaintances than dear and close friends! I remember once when Sarah (my youngest) was just in grade school, I mentioned that my good friend Donna,with whom I taught school, was coming over that evening to help me wrap my choir Christmas presents, and she responded, "She's coming over, with our house in a mess like this?! She MUST be a good friend!" Exactly...and she still is! :-) FROM JACK: Sometimes we have a good friend and don't know it. A man once went to a funeral home to "pay his respects." He was surprised when a relative came up to him and said, "You were one of his closest friends."
“A friend is one before whom I may think aloud.” (Ralph Waldo Emerson) I have a habit of referring to someone I know as “a friend of mine.” One of my children will correct me (as children sometimes do) by saying, “That’s an acquaintance, not a friend.” RWE had it right, too. Most of us have just a few friends with whom we can have “safe” conversations. Do friends on Facebook count as friends?. ;-) Jack
FROM BG IN MICHIGAN: You are my friend, Jack. FROM JACK: I appreciate our "think aloud" times together. MORE FROM BG: Ditto. They are a life line for me…
FROM ILLINOIS LIZ: Friends on Facebook just "count," I think. It's not only the kids who like to see how many friends they can "rack up." FROM JACK: I have a Facebook account, but I don't how many friends (if any) are listed on it. I do know that I have "friends" like you on my Winning Words address list. MORE FROM LIZ: Me, too. And I am amazed at the things people write for the world to see!
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: My mother-in-law told me, after my father-in-law died, that the hardest thing was that she didn't have someone she could "gossip" to. It took her a while to learn she could "gossip" to us others. And actually whatever things she says aren't all that ugly. They had a very good marriage. I've found a weekly prayer evening at church with God and a few friends to also be a safe place to think aloud and ask for help for all the people we need to talk about. FROM JACK: The Quakers, aka Friends, call their gatherings "Friends Meetings." It seems like you've found something like that at your church.
FROM EB: Ain't that the truth! FROM JACK: I sometimes wonder if your request to send WWs to leaders in your congregation ever results in discussions on a particular subject. This simply a "wondering" and not necessarily a request for an answer.
FROM DB IN MICHIGAN: I totally agree! p.s. its also important for us to remember who our true friends are, and to give them the extra special treatment and respect that they deserve! I cannot understand why people are more concerned with giving "their best" to strangers and not to "friends" and family. FROM JACK: Often it's a "situation" that causes a separation of the sheep from the goats, the real friends and the others. P.S. We'll never be able to understand the "why" of some personalities, but we can control our own behavior (except in those times described by St. Paul: "The good that I would, I do not; and the evil that I would not, that I do.") Life can be frustrating, at times.
FROM A FRIEND WHO TELLS IT LIKE IT IS: .....thanks" friend",you've gotten it right. If you ever "published"
some of the s--t I've either shared, emailed you or spoken in conversations with you, I'd be either arrested, defrocked, certainly embarrased .......but the bright side of my current memory deficit is that I can't remember most of it. FROM JACK: ...and neither can I.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: BFF is the sort of new phrase that made the rounds down here a few years ago. The main difference today is that families move so often compared to our generation growing up. FROM JACK: We have to understand that Hello and Goodbye come pretty close together these days.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: I would doubt it....tho I don't have one. Friends are very few; Facebook has a lot. FROM JACK: It's pretty hard to "think aloud" on Facebook.
FROM MOLINER CF: FaceBook is a good way to stay in touch with strangers. FROM JACK: Yo-Yo Ma said: "Good things happen when you meet strangers. " Someone I know met his wife, sight unseen, on the internet, and it worked out.
FROM AM IN MICHIGAN: To paraphrase RWE, if one has one good friend in a lifetime, he is fortunate. I must wander through Emerson and find those lines. FROM JACK: I did a quick search, but didn't find it. Ralph did leave us with many good sayings, though.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I don't do facebook, but I remember someone saying that if you have five good friends in a lifetime, you are blessed...I feel I have been blessed! But your children are right...most of our interaction is more with acquaintances than dear and close friends! I remember once when Sarah (my youngest) was just in grade school, I mentioned that my good friend Donna,with whom I taught school, was coming over that evening to help me wrap my choir Christmas presents, and she responded, "She's coming over, with our house in a mess like this?! She MUST be a good friend!" Exactly...and she still is! :-) FROM JACK: Sometimes we have a good friend and don't know it. A man once went to a funeral home to "pay his respects." He was surprised when a relative came up to him and said, "You were one of his closest friends."
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Winning Words 4/12/11
“If you can’t dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with bull.” (W.C. Fields) As one whose business included regular public speaking, I had to smile at what misanthropic W.C. had to say. I don’t want to imply that all preachers try to dazzle and baffle. In fact, this is advice for everyone. We need to be careful to keep our words true, avoiding the bull. Fields wasn’t all bad. He loved his grandchildren. ;-) Jack
FROM HS IN MICHIGAN: Do you send these just for me? Ha. FROM JACK: I'm the first one who reads them.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I thought you stayed away from political theory on WW's. FROM JACK: Are you referring to the brilliance or the bull?
FROM MOLINER CF: (From the musical: Chicago)
Give 'em the old razzle dazzle
Razzle Dazzle 'em
Give 'em an act with lots of flash in it
And the reaction will be passionate
Give 'em the old hocus pocus
Bead and feather 'em
How can they see with sequins in their eyes?
FROM JACK: I never saw that show, but it sounds like a good one, and Razzle Dazzle fits with today's WWs.
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: W.C. Fields must have been a great actor. Wasn't he the old curmudgeon who, in one of his movies, said he didn't like kids? And so convincingly. As a kid, I loved watching his persona. FROM JACK: Actor means, one who puts on and act. I don't know if WCF was putting on an act.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Are you still doing"public speaking?" or have you retired completely? Grandchildren love to hear their grandparents' stories, especially when the grandparent is chauffeuring them. By the way. on Sunday Ann, our oldest daughter, her husband, and our 25 year old grandson were trading stories about our life in Moline with Shirley Briere Parker and her husband, and they sure all remembered things a lot differently from me. And we only got up to 6th grade. They all made up a lot of things out of thin air, in my opinion. We were enjoying some bruschetta at a beach bistro, which might account for some of the memories. FROM JACK: In fact, I preached last Sunday...no bull! My grandchildren seem to like hearing about my behavioral escapades from the Moline days...even beyond the 6th grade.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Fields did have a way with words...cuts right to the point! I have heard a lot of "bull" from people and even pastors and have stated some bull too. But these words made me laugh. So many, including myself, would be better off not saying anything sometimes! FROM JACK: Focussing on the positive side...I've heard quite a few dazzlers, who were also brilliant. I'll let the others R.I.P.
FROM JL IN MICHIGAN: Remember, WC's first profession was being a juggler. I'm sure he dazzled his audiences. FROM JACK: I should have mentioned some dazzling attorneys that I know.
FROM CWR VISITING IN MICHIGAN: .....awh.....a little "bull" now and then fertilizes the field and helps the crops to grow. FROM JACK: The problem arises when the listeners begin to put on hip boots.
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: Jack, I'm 2/3 the way thru a nonfiction I'm writing about my experiences as a small business owner. It's easy to throw in some bull, but it wouldn't make a true story for me. FROM JACK: It's been said that, as one ages, the memory isn't as good as it once was. I'm not saying this problem applies in your case.
FROM JK IN MICHIGAN: Regarding W.C. Fields; A gentleman I work with says it is not as important what you say as how you say it. The point you make is your body language and delivery. You can give a bad report expressing confidence, or you can give a good report with showing trepidation.
FROM JK IN MICHIGAN: Regarding W.C. Fields; A gentleman I work with says it is not as important
what you say as how you say it. The point you make is your body language and delivery. You can give a bad report expressing confidence, or you can give a good report with showing trepidation. Which is worse?
FROM JACK: In my opinion, truth, however it is presented, is the most important.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: Whooopee! FROM JACK: I don't know if I've heard anyone say that in church.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I would guess that most public figures have gotten the hang of this advice. In fact wasn't it Hitler who said, "The larger the lie, the easier believed?" Dazzle or Baffle: Do most of us discern the difference?? FROM JACK: Indeed, it is a quote attributed to Hitler and his propaganda expect, Goebbles. Some political figures still use that tactic.
“If you can’t dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with bull.” (W.C. Fields) As one whose business included regular public speaking, I had to smile at what misanthropic W.C. had to say. I don’t want to imply that all preachers try to dazzle and baffle. In fact, this is advice for everyone. We need to be careful to keep our words true, avoiding the bull. Fields wasn’t all bad. He loved his grandchildren. ;-) Jack
FROM HS IN MICHIGAN: Do you send these just for me? Ha. FROM JACK: I'm the first one who reads them.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I thought you stayed away from political theory on WW's. FROM JACK: Are you referring to the brilliance or the bull?
FROM MOLINER CF: (From the musical: Chicago)
Give 'em the old razzle dazzle
Razzle Dazzle 'em
Give 'em an act with lots of flash in it
And the reaction will be passionate
Give 'em the old hocus pocus
Bead and feather 'em
How can they see with sequins in their eyes?
FROM JACK: I never saw that show, but it sounds like a good one, and Razzle Dazzle fits with today's WWs.
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: W.C. Fields must have been a great actor. Wasn't he the old curmudgeon who, in one of his movies, said he didn't like kids? And so convincingly. As a kid, I loved watching his persona. FROM JACK: Actor means, one who puts on and act. I don't know if WCF was putting on an act.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Are you still doing"public speaking?" or have you retired completely? Grandchildren love to hear their grandparents' stories, especially when the grandparent is chauffeuring them. By the way. on Sunday Ann, our oldest daughter, her husband, and our 25 year old grandson were trading stories about our life in Moline with Shirley Briere Parker and her husband, and they sure all remembered things a lot differently from me. And we only got up to 6th grade. They all made up a lot of things out of thin air, in my opinion. We were enjoying some bruschetta at a beach bistro, which might account for some of the memories. FROM JACK: In fact, I preached last Sunday...no bull! My grandchildren seem to like hearing about my behavioral escapades from the Moline days...even beyond the 6th grade.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Fields did have a way with words...cuts right to the point! I have heard a lot of "bull" from people and even pastors and have stated some bull too. But these words made me laugh. So many, including myself, would be better off not saying anything sometimes! FROM JACK: Focussing on the positive side...I've heard quite a few dazzlers, who were also brilliant. I'll let the others R.I.P.
FROM JL IN MICHIGAN: Remember, WC's first profession was being a juggler. I'm sure he dazzled his audiences. FROM JACK: I should have mentioned some dazzling attorneys that I know.
FROM CWR VISITING IN MICHIGAN: .....awh.....a little "bull" now and then fertilizes the field and helps the crops to grow. FROM JACK: The problem arises when the listeners begin to put on hip boots.
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: Jack, I'm 2/3 the way thru a nonfiction I'm writing about my experiences as a small business owner. It's easy to throw in some bull, but it wouldn't make a true story for me. FROM JACK: It's been said that, as one ages, the memory isn't as good as it once was. I'm not saying this problem applies in your case.
FROM JK IN MICHIGAN: Regarding W.C. Fields; A gentleman I work with says it is not as important what you say as how you say it. The point you make is your body language and delivery. You can give a bad report expressing confidence, or you can give a good report with showing trepidation.
FROM JK IN MICHIGAN: Regarding W.C. Fields; A gentleman I work with says it is not as important
what you say as how you say it. The point you make is your body language and delivery. You can give a bad report expressing confidence, or you can give a good report with showing trepidation. Which is worse?
FROM JACK: In my opinion, truth, however it is presented, is the most important.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: Whooopee! FROM JACK: I don't know if I've heard anyone say that in church.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I would guess that most public figures have gotten the hang of this advice. In fact wasn't it Hitler who said, "The larger the lie, the easier believed?" Dazzle or Baffle: Do most of us discern the difference?? FROM JACK: Indeed, it is a quote attributed to Hitler and his propaganda expect, Goebbles. Some political figures still use that tactic.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Winning Words 4/11/11
“Keep a stiff upper lip.” (19th Century Proverb) Other versions of this are “Keep a straight face” and “Keep your chin up.” Sometimes a person’s lips will quiver when he/ she is upset. This proverb advises: “Do your duty and show no emotion.” It’s also a sign of optimism. “No matter what the circumstance might be, I’m going to see it through.” It’s interesting that AC/DC has a song with this title. ;-) Jack
FROM PRJS IN MICHIGAN: Curious how with you everything is a sign of optimism....has the Power of Evil become a sign of optimism, too??? FROM JACK: That's why I call them "Winning Words." Some people have told me that they need a "positive" word as they begin the week. Some people need that kind of help every day. Much of evil that bests us is in the way we look at things. I'm not necessarily an Oscar Wilde fan, but what he says here is worth thinking about. “We are each our own devil, and we make this world our hell.”
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: One day at a time. FROM JACK: ...but our "strange" mind wants to jump ahead, hours, days, moths, years, ezpecially at night.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Just wondering....does that proverb have a beginning...like for shaving for instance? Never-the-less, today I will keep a stiff upper lip! (Even though I don't shave!) LOL FROM JACK: It looks like you're wearing your "funny" face today.
FROM AW IN ILLINOIS: Jack, yesterday I was listening to Garrison Kiellor and his "Lake Wobegone " story. He got to talking about the pastors at the Lutheran church and he said, " God said the meek shall inherit the earth...but so far that has only produced Lutherans."
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I'm sure we've all had to keep a "stiff upper lip" many times, and I think you are right on track to say it involves optimism, rather than stoicism. One carries on, hoping for the best...Right now I am struggling with being chrm. of our new photo church directory, and believe me, a stiff upper lip and a few other things might help! :-) FROM JACK: I came across another of the "old" proverbs..."PULL YOUR SOCKS UP!" Pull your socks up and get that directory done. Use your charm, if you have to.
FROM MOLINER CF: Smile though your heart is aching Smile even though it's breaking FROM JACK: I think that today's "crowd" would respond more to AC/DC than to Charlie Chaplin or Nat King Cole.
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: wow, this is an oldie. I'll have to remember this one next time I start to cry. l'll see it this works. Did U know I am a cry baby? FROM JACK: Don't be ashamed of crying. Remember John 11:35 says: "Jesus wept.
“Keep a stiff upper lip.” (19th Century Proverb) Other versions of this are “Keep a straight face” and “Keep your chin up.” Sometimes a person’s lips will quiver when he/ she is upset. This proverb advises: “Do your duty and show no emotion.” It’s also a sign of optimism. “No matter what the circumstance might be, I’m going to see it through.” It’s interesting that AC/DC has a song with this title. ;-) Jack
FROM PRJS IN MICHIGAN: Curious how with you everything is a sign of optimism....has the Power of Evil become a sign of optimism, too??? FROM JACK: That's why I call them "Winning Words." Some people have told me that they need a "positive" word as they begin the week. Some people need that kind of help every day. Much of evil that bests us is in the way we look at things. I'm not necessarily an Oscar Wilde fan, but what he says here is worth thinking about. “We are each our own devil, and we make this world our hell.”
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: One day at a time. FROM JACK: ...but our "strange" mind wants to jump ahead, hours, days, moths, years, ezpecially at night.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Just wondering....does that proverb have a beginning...like for shaving for instance? Never-the-less, today I will keep a stiff upper lip! (Even though I don't shave!) LOL FROM JACK: It looks like you're wearing your "funny" face today.
FROM AW IN ILLINOIS: Jack, yesterday I was listening to Garrison Kiellor and his "Lake Wobegone " story. He got to talking about the pastors at the Lutheran church and he said, " God said the meek shall inherit the earth...but so far that has only produced Lutherans."
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I'm sure we've all had to keep a "stiff upper lip" many times, and I think you are right on track to say it involves optimism, rather than stoicism. One carries on, hoping for the best...Right now I am struggling with being chrm. of our new photo church directory, and believe me, a stiff upper lip and a few other things might help! :-) FROM JACK: I came across another of the "old" proverbs..."PULL YOUR SOCKS UP!" Pull your socks up and get that directory done. Use your charm, if you have to.
FROM MOLINER CF: Smile though your heart is aching Smile even though it's breaking FROM JACK: I think that today's "crowd" would respond more to AC/DC than to Charlie Chaplin or Nat King Cole.
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: wow, this is an oldie. I'll have to remember this one next time I start to cry. l'll see it this works. Did U know I am a cry baby? FROM JACK: Don't be ashamed of crying. Remember John 11:35 says: "Jesus wept.
Friday, April 08, 2011
Winning Words 4/8/11
“A hot dog at the game beats roast beef at the Ritz.” (Humphrey Bogart) Sometimes the simple things are those that occupy the most prominent place in our memory. I’ve been to several opening day ballgames, but I’ve had the most fun watching my children and grandchildren participate in their games. …and I agree with Bogie when it comes to eating a hot dog (with mustard) at a ballgame. ;-) Jack
FROM PRJS IN MICHIGAN: I always order a Brat.... FROM JACK: ...and a $7 beer? I once had a church member whose family owned the brat concession at the ballpark in Milwaukee.
FROM PL IN MICHIGAN: Is there anything better than a "good" hotdog a a baseball game? I like HB even better now! FROM JACK: Funny.....but I never envisioned Bogart as a baseball fan. I wonder which team was his favorite.
FROM PASTY PAT IN THE WEST BANK: Yes........even here in Yanoun I was thinking about a hot dog and beer at Comerica Park when I return. FROM JACK: Is there such a thing as a hot dog in the Holy Land, kosher or otherwise? MORE FROM PAT: Actually yes ...but it does depend on where you are.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: I disagree with Bogart. I'll take the roast beef, broccoli, good coffee and conversation of a friend or loved one. FROM JACK: I imagine they serve that stuff at the Ritz, but not at the ballpark. But, to eat with friends and loved ones is best...anywhere.
FROM HS IN MICHIGAN: Naturally, I will be there today. It'll be my 23rd Opening Day and I was only born in '84! Thank Gary for giving me a day off! FROM JACK: Now, you're what I call, a TRUE Tiger fan. Will you have a kosher hot dog?
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: Don't know if my memory is accurate or not, but didn't Bogart always act the sort of
down-and-outer, the heroic person facing all kinds of obstacles from "the comfortable" people of power and influence? Wonder if he deliberately chose those parts or if they were foisted on him and he had to do them in order to be able to work? I'll take Bogart and his hot dogs. FROM JACK: In my mind, he's identified by his roles in The African Queen and Casablanca. Winners, but no wieners.
FROM MOLINER CF: Ya still can't beat a "Coney Island" from Dallos's. Remember? FROM JACK: They didn't serve them at Browning Field. BTW, on 16th St, between 5th & 6th Ave?
FROM PRDL IN OREGON: Coney Islands are the best!!! FROM JACK: We are fortunate in the Detroit area to have many places where "coneys" are available. My favorite is Pete's, where a coney is placed in front of you in less than a minute after you order it. And it's better than roast beef at the Ritz.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: With mustard? What about also catsup, relish, & chopped onion??! YUM! :-) I've never had roast beef at the Ritz, but a ball game hot dog is pretty hard to top. With a husband, three boys, three grandsons, and one "great" playing ball games, I speak from experience. You are so right...the "home-town" games with relatives playing make precious memories, but don't rule the CUBS (or BEARS) out. This may be the year!! HOPE is the name of the game.... FROM JACK: Back in '45 the Tigers played the Cubs in the World Series. I was a Cubs' fan then. I have since moved to Detroit and changed my allegiance. How nice it is to celebrate a championship now and then. If only it would work for the Lions.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: I'm not much for hot dogs but being at the ballpark or soccer field with kids and grandkids is the best! (I loved African Queen!) FROM JACK: I wonder if Bogie's style of acting would "cut the mustard" in today's world.
FROM INDY GENIE: Son Jason and his fellow Cubs fan friend just had their 14th annual Home Opening Day party! Hot Dogs, peanuts and beverages from 9 am to 1 pm and then all walk to the game. FROM JACK: As the old song puts it: "Memories are made of this." Over 45,000 showed up for Opening Day in Detroit. Daughter Jeanne was able to get away from work to be there with her friends.
FROM JT IN MICHIGAN: There is no steak - nothing - that beats a hot dog at a Tigers game (two is even better!!) FROM JACK: How about two coneys at Pete's?
“A hot dog at the game beats roast beef at the Ritz.” (Humphrey Bogart) Sometimes the simple things are those that occupy the most prominent place in our memory. I’ve been to several opening day ballgames, but I’ve had the most fun watching my children and grandchildren participate in their games. …and I agree with Bogie when it comes to eating a hot dog (with mustard) at a ballgame. ;-) Jack
FROM PRJS IN MICHIGAN: I always order a Brat.... FROM JACK: ...and a $7 beer? I once had a church member whose family owned the brat concession at the ballpark in Milwaukee.
FROM PL IN MICHIGAN: Is there anything better than a "good" hotdog a a baseball game? I like HB even better now! FROM JACK: Funny.....but I never envisioned Bogart as a baseball fan. I wonder which team was his favorite.
FROM PASTY PAT IN THE WEST BANK: Yes........even here in Yanoun I was thinking about a hot dog and beer at Comerica Park when I return. FROM JACK: Is there such a thing as a hot dog in the Holy Land, kosher or otherwise? MORE FROM PAT: Actually yes ...but it does depend on where you are.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: I disagree with Bogart. I'll take the roast beef, broccoli, good coffee and conversation of a friend or loved one. FROM JACK: I imagine they serve that stuff at the Ritz, but not at the ballpark. But, to eat with friends and loved ones is best...anywhere.
FROM HS IN MICHIGAN: Naturally, I will be there today. It'll be my 23rd Opening Day and I was only born in '84! Thank Gary for giving me a day off! FROM JACK: Now, you're what I call, a TRUE Tiger fan. Will you have a kosher hot dog?
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: Don't know if my memory is accurate or not, but didn't Bogart always act the sort of
down-and-outer, the heroic person facing all kinds of obstacles from "the comfortable" people of power and influence? Wonder if he deliberately chose those parts or if they were foisted on him and he had to do them in order to be able to work? I'll take Bogart and his hot dogs. FROM JACK: In my mind, he's identified by his roles in The African Queen and Casablanca. Winners, but no wieners.
FROM MOLINER CF: Ya still can't beat a "Coney Island" from Dallos's. Remember? FROM JACK: They didn't serve them at Browning Field. BTW, on 16th St, between 5th & 6th Ave?
FROM PRDL IN OREGON: Coney Islands are the best!!! FROM JACK: We are fortunate in the Detroit area to have many places where "coneys" are available. My favorite is Pete's, where a coney is placed in front of you in less than a minute after you order it. And it's better than roast beef at the Ritz.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: With mustard? What about also catsup, relish, & chopped onion??! YUM! :-) I've never had roast beef at the Ritz, but a ball game hot dog is pretty hard to top. With a husband, three boys, three grandsons, and one "great" playing ball games, I speak from experience. You are so right...the "home-town" games with relatives playing make precious memories, but don't rule the CUBS (or BEARS) out. This may be the year!! HOPE is the name of the game.... FROM JACK: Back in '45 the Tigers played the Cubs in the World Series. I was a Cubs' fan then. I have since moved to Detroit and changed my allegiance. How nice it is to celebrate a championship now and then. If only it would work for the Lions.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: I'm not much for hot dogs but being at the ballpark or soccer field with kids and grandkids is the best! (I loved African Queen!) FROM JACK: I wonder if Bogie's style of acting would "cut the mustard" in today's world.
FROM INDY GENIE: Son Jason and his fellow Cubs fan friend just had their 14th annual Home Opening Day party! Hot Dogs, peanuts and beverages from 9 am to 1 pm and then all walk to the game. FROM JACK: As the old song puts it: "Memories are made of this." Over 45,000 showed up for Opening Day in Detroit. Daughter Jeanne was able to get away from work to be there with her friends.
FROM JT IN MICHIGAN: There is no steak - nothing - that beats a hot dog at a Tigers game (two is even better!!) FROM JACK: How about two coneys at Pete's?
Thursday, April 07, 2011
Winning Words 4/7/11
“The main events of life are mainly small events. They only seem large when we are close to them.” (Mark Twain) One of my favorite poets is Robert Frost. I especially like his poem, The Road Less Travelled, which describes the adventure of taking a path that others have ignored. Think of the events and choices in your life that have “made all the difference” as you have walked through the years. ;-) Jack
FROM PASTY PAT IN THE WEST BANK: This must certainly be one of them. I'm a Finn from a small copper mining community in the U.P. for heavens sake. FROM JACK: Yep...a Yooper leaving one Holy Land for another. Strange!
FROM HS IN MICHIGAN: Excellent. FROM JACK: I know that you've experienced both, the big and the small events. Isn't it interesting how a small event can occupy a big place in our memory?
FROM MOLINER CF: Our day is one big event, starting with the sunrise. FROM JACK: Mine begins even before sunrise, when I go to the computer at 5 am to begin sending out Winning Words to my friends. Every day is full of opportunity for those who seek it. MORE FROM CF: Why don't you program your computer to send out WW at 5 and stay in bed? FROM JACK: You may have a hard time believing this, but sending out WWs is a personal thing with me, and I often think of someone (even you) when I press, "SEND." I won't trade that for an extra hour or two of sleep.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: I wonder if it is just our generation which isn't influenced very much by what everyone else is doing. When we first moved Florida, if someone was doing something-like putting little air pipes on the roof to make the attics cooler-everyone did it. The little pipes did nothing and are all down now. Anyway, we have to all think for ourselves and be individualists and enjoy each day. FROM JACK: Persuading us to buy certain things is really BIG business these days. TV ads seem to go on and on and on. Grocery stores place items in places that catch our eye. Consciously or sub-consciously, we buy things because of ads. I don't know if I'd buy roof pipes, although I did have an attic fan installed, which we never use. MORE FROM SHIRL: Do you remember being taught the techniques of propaganda during The War? It seems that that is what is being used to sell products these days. It is a good thing that God gave us all a brain. FROM JACK: A minister friend of mine once told a nuclear physicist: "When you come to church, you don't have to leave your brain with your car in the parking lot."
FROM EMT SINGS IN MICHIGAN: My daughter was driving to work this morning when she called me. While we were talking she happened to to be following a semi with a bumper sticker on the back that said: Three things matter for eternity: Location, Location, Location--GOD We both enjoyed the sentiment and I said I would share it with you. Messages are all around us. FROM JACK: I like it. Messages from God are all around us. Some of them show that he/she has a sense of humor.
MORE FROM CF: Why don't you program your computer to send out WW at 5 and stay in bed?
FROM MOLINER TG: I continue to enjoy your daily Winning Words. Robert Frost was an inspiration. He had a long relationship with Amherst College and the "new" library there (a couple of decades ago) is named for him. He was still a visiting fellow at Amherst when I was there as a student in the late forties and had the pleasure of hearing him reflect on life and poetry in an English class and also hearing him a couple of times at our morning chapel service - (which they no longer have today!) My last image of Frost was him trying to read his notes in the cold bright noontime sun in D.C. at the JFK inauguration. What a frustrating time for him at a widely watched event. He was 86 at the time. "And miles to go before I sleep". A beautiful poem. FROM JACK: How great to be able to say: "I remember Robert Frost." Augustana College no longer has chapel services. We heard some really great messages when they were "mandatory." It was interesting when some would connect the mysterious with life. Frost's poetry is more than words. Carl Sandburg is like that for me. My father grew up in Galesburg when Sandburg lived there.
FROM TS IN MICHIGAN: Ya know, I always handle bad situations like that and tell people to do the same thing -- "This will only look like a minor bump in the road when you look at it in the rear view mirror several years from now." Great advice. FROM JACK: Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer were philosophers, too. I enjoyed the stories when I was young, and I like them even better now.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Some of the smallest events in our lives are the ones which leave the biggest impact. FROM JACK: A phone call changed life's direction for me.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I taught Robert Frost in my Lit classes, and required each of my students to memorize one of his poems to recite to the class. The Road Less Traveled is a very good one! We certainly don't realize when we are young, how seemingly innocuous decisions will impact our lives forever. I tried to impress on my children, that decisions they were making as young people was going to affect the direction of their lives. Mostly they did listen...Bill used to say, "At first you may be faced with a good choice and a bad choice. But once you have made a bad choice, you are usually facing two bad choices, and it spirals from there..." Pretty true. Better to choose wisely in the first place. But sometimes not nearly as seductive and exciting as the less wise choice. HA! Small things DO seem very large sometimes when we are dealing with
them, but from the perspective of Old Age Twain is right. "Don't Sweat The Small Stuff...P.S. It's all small stuff!" Is a good book on that! FROM JACK: What an honor to have been Robert Frost's teacher. He must have been one of your older students. BTW, another piece of good advice from Bill.
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: there is a proposed plan by mercy housing, (affordable senior housing), facility in our neighborhood. today i had a visit by a concerned citizen, telling me that the people moving in may be from chicago housing developments and would taint our community. i told her that i am an advocate of the new affordable housing. she warned me that i will be calling the police to report crime. as i hugged her, i told her that we must think kindly of those in need and if we think the best of humanity, perhaps we will receive the best in return. i read your ww's after speaking with her. i feel the presence of god in mark twains quote. again, thank you. maybe other's will not get the connection. i know you will. FROM JACK: I'm proud of you, Mary. Some people wear wrist bands that read: W.W.J.D. You've done something better than that. You did what Jesus would do.
FROM SG IN MICHIGAN: This is my favorite poem, as well. And choices do make all the difference!
“The main events of life are mainly small events. They only seem large when we are close to them.” (Mark Twain) One of my favorite poets is Robert Frost. I especially like his poem, The Road Less Travelled, which describes the adventure of taking a path that others have ignored. Think of the events and choices in your life that have “made all the difference” as you have walked through the years. ;-) Jack
FROM PASTY PAT IN THE WEST BANK: This must certainly be one of them. I'm a Finn from a small copper mining community in the U.P. for heavens sake. FROM JACK: Yep...a Yooper leaving one Holy Land for another. Strange!
FROM HS IN MICHIGAN: Excellent. FROM JACK: I know that you've experienced both, the big and the small events. Isn't it interesting how a small event can occupy a big place in our memory?
FROM MOLINER CF: Our day is one big event, starting with the sunrise. FROM JACK: Mine begins even before sunrise, when I go to the computer at 5 am to begin sending out Winning Words to my friends. Every day is full of opportunity for those who seek it. MORE FROM CF: Why don't you program your computer to send out WW at 5 and stay in bed? FROM JACK: You may have a hard time believing this, but sending out WWs is a personal thing with me, and I often think of someone (even you) when I press, "SEND." I won't trade that for an extra hour or two of sleep.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: I wonder if it is just our generation which isn't influenced very much by what everyone else is doing. When we first moved Florida, if someone was doing something-like putting little air pipes on the roof to make the attics cooler-everyone did it. The little pipes did nothing and are all down now. Anyway, we have to all think for ourselves and be individualists and enjoy each day. FROM JACK: Persuading us to buy certain things is really BIG business these days. TV ads seem to go on and on and on. Grocery stores place items in places that catch our eye. Consciously or sub-consciously, we buy things because of ads. I don't know if I'd buy roof pipes, although I did have an attic fan installed, which we never use. MORE FROM SHIRL: Do you remember being taught the techniques of propaganda during The War? It seems that that is what is being used to sell products these days. It is a good thing that God gave us all a brain. FROM JACK: A minister friend of mine once told a nuclear physicist: "When you come to church, you don't have to leave your brain with your car in the parking lot."
FROM EMT SINGS IN MICHIGAN: My daughter was driving to work this morning when she called me. While we were talking she happened to to be following a semi with a bumper sticker on the back that said: Three things matter for eternity: Location, Location, Location--GOD We both enjoyed the sentiment and I said I would share it with you. Messages are all around us. FROM JACK: I like it. Messages from God are all around us. Some of them show that he/she has a sense of humor.
MORE FROM CF: Why don't you program your computer to send out WW at 5 and stay in bed?
FROM MOLINER TG: I continue to enjoy your daily Winning Words. Robert Frost was an inspiration. He had a long relationship with Amherst College and the "new" library there (a couple of decades ago) is named for him. He was still a visiting fellow at Amherst when I was there as a student in the late forties and had the pleasure of hearing him reflect on life and poetry in an English class and also hearing him a couple of times at our morning chapel service - (which they no longer have today!) My last image of Frost was him trying to read his notes in the cold bright noontime sun in D.C. at the JFK inauguration. What a frustrating time for him at a widely watched event. He was 86 at the time. "And miles to go before I sleep". A beautiful poem. FROM JACK: How great to be able to say: "I remember Robert Frost." Augustana College no longer has chapel services. We heard some really great messages when they were "mandatory." It was interesting when some would connect the mysterious with life. Frost's poetry is more than words. Carl Sandburg is like that for me. My father grew up in Galesburg when Sandburg lived there.
FROM TS IN MICHIGAN: Ya know, I always handle bad situations like that and tell people to do the same thing -- "This will only look like a minor bump in the road when you look at it in the rear view mirror several years from now." Great advice. FROM JACK: Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer were philosophers, too. I enjoyed the stories when I was young, and I like them even better now.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Some of the smallest events in our lives are the ones which leave the biggest impact. FROM JACK: A phone call changed life's direction for me.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I taught Robert Frost in my Lit classes, and required each of my students to memorize one of his poems to recite to the class. The Road Less Traveled is a very good one! We certainly don't realize when we are young, how seemingly innocuous decisions will impact our lives forever. I tried to impress on my children, that decisions they were making as young people was going to affect the direction of their lives. Mostly they did listen...Bill used to say, "At first you may be faced with a good choice and a bad choice. But once you have made a bad choice, you are usually facing two bad choices, and it spirals from there..." Pretty true. Better to choose wisely in the first place. But sometimes not nearly as seductive and exciting as the less wise choice. HA! Small things DO seem very large sometimes when we are dealing with
them, but from the perspective of Old Age Twain is right. "Don't Sweat The Small Stuff...P.S. It's all small stuff!" Is a good book on that! FROM JACK: What an honor to have been Robert Frost's teacher. He must have been one of your older students. BTW, another piece of good advice from Bill.
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: there is a proposed plan by mercy housing, (affordable senior housing), facility in our neighborhood. today i had a visit by a concerned citizen, telling me that the people moving in may be from chicago housing developments and would taint our community. i told her that i am an advocate of the new affordable housing. she warned me that i will be calling the police to report crime. as i hugged her, i told her that we must think kindly of those in need and if we think the best of humanity, perhaps we will receive the best in return. i read your ww's after speaking with her. i feel the presence of god in mark twains quote. again, thank you. maybe other's will not get the connection. i know you will. FROM JACK: I'm proud of you, Mary. Some people wear wrist bands that read: W.W.J.D. You've done something better than that. You did what Jesus would do.
FROM SG IN MICHIGAN: This is my favorite poem, as well. And choices do make all the difference!
Wednesday, April 06, 2011
Winning Words 4/6/11
“Sometimes you’ve got to say to someone, ‘Get over it.’” (anon, but not to me) At first glance, this doesn’t sound nice. However, in life there come times when it’s just necessary to move on. There are places in the Bible which describe times when God has had it with the faithlessness of people. “Get over it.” There comes a time when the people of God need to be the people of God. ;-) Jack
FROM PASTY PAT FROM THE WEST BANK: A resounding AMEN sent all the way from Yanoun! FROM JACK: You get a different perspective when you "walk where Jesus walked," don't you?
FROM RI IN BOSTON: There also comes a time when we have to "get ON with it". FROM JACK: There's value in looking at things/issues from more than one point of view.
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: anon said something that's in my mind sometimes with certain people that repeat and repeat and repeat destructive behavior and then rationalize that he/she did it "because" someone else did this or that, some sort of victimization that then was the cause of everything else that follows. I think people learn how to break these destructive patterns in all the anon groups but it sure is hard to have a friend like this. FROM JACK: It is possible to say, in a friendly way, "Get over it!"
FROM "I DON'T KNOW WHO": Good Word Jack! I agree with S.H. in MI about a challenging friendship. It is always a balance point between what you feel and what you know you should do. (Actually it is more of stuggle...) FROM JACK: Real friendships are strengthened by challenges.
FROM MT IN PENNSYLVANIA: Well, that is definitely good advice. Many people are trapped by the pain and fear of things that happened long ago. If you saw the movie Moonstruck (Cher and Nicholas Cage), you may recall the great cinematic moment when she slaps him and bellows "Snap out of it!" :-) FROM JACK: Yes, a slap in the face, a swift kick in the rear, and an unexpected "Get over it," are ways to get one's attention.
FROM LS IN MICHIGAN: where are those passages in the Bible? FROM JACK: When I was in the business of praching from the pulpit, I can't recall anyone shouting out from the pew, "What do you mean by that." But, since you asked, I might refer to Exodus 32:9-10 where Moses hears God refer to Israel as a "stiff-necked" people. I think also of God's prophet, Amos, and his words to the fat cows of Bashan (the rich and uncaring). I may think of others as the day goes on.
FROM PRJS IN MICHIGAN: And there are times when God just gave up on them and let them be taken into exile.... FROM JACK: This raises the question in my mind: "Does God give up on anyone?" or is the ball always in "our" court. MORE FROM JS: Clearly some find themselves outside if we are reading the scriptures....it
appears that it is always our fault....the best write up on this is the Apocalypse of St. John...God keeps coming after them but they refuse to listen...the writer is astonished.... FROM JACK: I was influenced by Francis Thompson's poem: "The Hound of Heaven."
FROM NANCY IN THE U.P.: YES !!!!AT OUR CHURCH WE HAVE DUSTED OFF OUR BIBLES AND DURING LENT WE ARE READING MATTHEW AND ROMANS....AND THE LORD WAS REALLY TRYING TO GET THROUGH OVER AND OVER !!! FROM JACK: You always seem to be able to find something "new" in the old, old story. I've always liked the Västerås-method Bible study...the candle, the arrow, the question mark and the double-candle.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: As harsh as it sounds, it's good advice. It's something I have said to myself a time or two. FROM JACK: Good advice is good advice!
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: That is the theme of this school year's national robotics teams, grades 9-12. That is the future. FROM JACK: Here is something for young minds to ponder..."If there's a barrier to your thinking, Get over it!" The world is always looking for new ways to remove barriers.
FROM MOLINER CF: Life is like a track meet. Lots of hurdles and you need to get over all of them. FROM JACK: And it you happen to stumble and fall, just get up and keep on going.
FROM AM IN MICHIGAN: In my Mother's house it was :Offer it up". I continued that and I hear my children repeating it. FROM JACK: That's a good one. I can hear God saying that with regard to our whiny prayers.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: Regurging the same thing over and over does no one any good....especially the individual!
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: That works especially with children who don't like to let something go if they insist on blaming someone else. FROM JACK: Where do kids learn that behavioral stuff?
“Sometimes you’ve got to say to someone, ‘Get over it.’” (anon, but not to me) At first glance, this doesn’t sound nice. However, in life there come times when it’s just necessary to move on. There are places in the Bible which describe times when God has had it with the faithlessness of people. “Get over it.” There comes a time when the people of God need to be the people of God. ;-) Jack
FROM PASTY PAT FROM THE WEST BANK: A resounding AMEN sent all the way from Yanoun! FROM JACK: You get a different perspective when you "walk where Jesus walked," don't you?
FROM RI IN BOSTON: There also comes a time when we have to "get ON with it". FROM JACK: There's value in looking at things/issues from more than one point of view.
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: anon said something that's in my mind sometimes with certain people that repeat and repeat and repeat destructive behavior and then rationalize that he/she did it "because" someone else did this or that, some sort of victimization that then was the cause of everything else that follows. I think people learn how to break these destructive patterns in all the anon groups but it sure is hard to have a friend like this. FROM JACK: It is possible to say, in a friendly way, "Get over it!"
FROM "I DON'T KNOW WHO": Good Word Jack! I agree with S.H. in MI about a challenging friendship. It is always a balance point between what you feel and what you know you should do. (Actually it is more of stuggle...) FROM JACK: Real friendships are strengthened by challenges.
FROM MT IN PENNSYLVANIA: Well, that is definitely good advice. Many people are trapped by the pain and fear of things that happened long ago. If you saw the movie Moonstruck (Cher and Nicholas Cage), you may recall the great cinematic moment when she slaps him and bellows "Snap out of it!" :-) FROM JACK: Yes, a slap in the face, a swift kick in the rear, and an unexpected "Get over it," are ways to get one's attention.
FROM LS IN MICHIGAN: where are those passages in the Bible? FROM JACK: When I was in the business of praching from the pulpit, I can't recall anyone shouting out from the pew, "What do you mean by that." But, since you asked, I might refer to Exodus 32:9-10 where Moses hears God refer to Israel as a "stiff-necked" people. I think also of God's prophet, Amos, and his words to the fat cows of Bashan (the rich and uncaring). I may think of others as the day goes on.
FROM PRJS IN MICHIGAN: And there are times when God just gave up on them and let them be taken into exile.... FROM JACK: This raises the question in my mind: "Does God give up on anyone?" or is the ball always in "our" court. MORE FROM JS: Clearly some find themselves outside if we are reading the scriptures....it
appears that it is always our fault....the best write up on this is the Apocalypse of St. John...God keeps coming after them but they refuse to listen...the writer is astonished.... FROM JACK: I was influenced by Francis Thompson's poem: "The Hound of Heaven."
FROM NANCY IN THE U.P.: YES !!!!AT OUR CHURCH WE HAVE DUSTED OFF OUR BIBLES AND DURING LENT WE ARE READING MATTHEW AND ROMANS....AND THE LORD WAS REALLY TRYING TO GET THROUGH OVER AND OVER !!! FROM JACK: You always seem to be able to find something "new" in the old, old story. I've always liked the Västerås-method Bible study...the candle, the arrow, the question mark and the double-candle.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: As harsh as it sounds, it's good advice. It's something I have said to myself a time or two. FROM JACK: Good advice is good advice!
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: That is the theme of this school year's national robotics teams, grades 9-12. That is the future. FROM JACK: Here is something for young minds to ponder..."If there's a barrier to your thinking, Get over it!" The world is always looking for new ways to remove barriers.
FROM MOLINER CF: Life is like a track meet. Lots of hurdles and you need to get over all of them. FROM JACK: And it you happen to stumble and fall, just get up and keep on going.
FROM AM IN MICHIGAN: In my Mother's house it was :Offer it up". I continued that and I hear my children repeating it. FROM JACK: That's a good one. I can hear God saying that with regard to our whiny prayers.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: Regurging the same thing over and over does no one any good....especially the individual!
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: That works especially with children who don't like to let something go if they insist on blaming someone else. FROM JACK: Where do kids learn that behavioral stuff?
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
Winning Words - 4/5/11
“What if God’s skin isn’t either white or black? What if her skin is blue? (Wally Armbruster) I found this in an un-calendar. You can open it to any page, and it’s the right one. It’s interesting that so many people seem to “know” all the answers to that which is beyond their ken. Who is it that has helped you to “unscrew the inscrutable” as one of my seminary professors used to say? ;-) Jack
FROM PRJS IN MICHIGAN: That's about thirty years out of date. FROM JACK: I know that it might seem like a dated issue, but there are some problems that don't seem to go away. We are always in need of teaching and re-teaching about about racism. Ethnophobia is becoming an ever increasing issue. Even in biblical days, there was the need to state and re-state the concept of God. The tag question was: "Who has helped you to come to some sort of understanding about God?"
FROM ALI IN MICHIGAN: Love the quote...lol FROM JACK: We know some things about God, but there is so much yet to be learned. Thanks for sharing your point of view during our conversations.
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: how about that! reference of female creator. interesting! as far as the influences along the way. too many to name, all of equal importance. thanks and love to all of you. FROM JACK: I knew that you'd probably pick up on that one. You're right about the influences on your life. Most of us can name several, including some that we're probably not aware of.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Then where are the blue people? FROM JACK: I see a lot of sadness out there in the world. MORE FROM OUTHOUSE: That certainly true. I don't believe anyone can know the answers except
God. And I believe He is bigger and better than all the questions we can ask. Personally, I believe He is full of color and brighter than anything we can imagine. I have a lot of questions...like why does it snow in April and why does it matter what color our skin is! Also, I like green and I believe He does too...that's why there are so many trees. We need to simplify our beliefs and believe as a little child does....we need to grow in our understanding but believe like a child.
FROM MOLINER CF: Who cares what God looks like as long as we know He/She is there? FROM JACK: Christians believe that Jesus came into the world to "reveal" God.
FROM BBC IN ILLINOIS: I love that phrase, unscrew the unscrutible…thanks for the thought and the smile. FROM JACK: The same professor said: "You can't find God at the end of a logical syllogism." Some people are more "memorable" than others.
FROM INDY GENIE: Kids....all ages.......help me to see the world "out of my box". They continually teach me and remind me of how much I don't know...and that' a good thing. FROM JACK: Isn't that interesting? Kids can be teachers.
FROM PRPH IN MINNESOTA: did you see the movie, Avatar? half the actors had blue skin. it was a little wierd at first but then you got used to it. hope you are having a good Lenten journey, 2011. FROM JACK: I saw the pictures, but not the picture show. Isn't it interesting how we get so caught up in the way people look. Helen Keller didn't have that problem.
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: Some most important people who taught me to unscrew the unscrutable were the Stephens Ministries leaders and supervision group I used to belong to. From there I learned especially that I am a caregiver and that God is the curegiver. The unscrutable became much more bearable because of that essential teaching and hope. Sure took a load off my shoulders and back!!!!!!!!! All kinds of things are broken down when I became much more aware and observant that God is the curegiver, including the ills of racism and patriarchy. FROM JACK: There comes a time when we learn that it all doesn't depend on "me." We find out that things can be accomplished better with teamwork and with dependence upon God.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: ..."beyond their ken"? that's inscrutiable. FROM JACK: I don't recall using that word in a conversation, but, in this instance, it seemed to be appropriate.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I love that "unscrew the unscrutable" phrase, and had quoted it several times since you mentioned it awhile back. And I love today's quote, because that is exactly right...what do we know??! He, She, red, white or blue? But we know our God is an awesome God! I enjoyed THE SHACK for that reason, because when he needed a mother, God was the warm Mammy, when he needed a counselor, he was another character, a teacher, another person...Really the All-in-All presence of God Almighty! FROM JACK: I try not to repeat myself, unless "the shoe fits." God is beyond our understanding, so he makes himself known by becoming like us...without the imperfections.
“What if God’s skin isn’t either white or black? What if her skin is blue? (Wally Armbruster) I found this in an un-calendar. You can open it to any page, and it’s the right one. It’s interesting that so many people seem to “know” all the answers to that which is beyond their ken. Who is it that has helped you to “unscrew the inscrutable” as one of my seminary professors used to say? ;-) Jack
FROM PRJS IN MICHIGAN: That's about thirty years out of date. FROM JACK: I know that it might seem like a dated issue, but there are some problems that don't seem to go away. We are always in need of teaching and re-teaching about about racism. Ethnophobia is becoming an ever increasing issue. Even in biblical days, there was the need to state and re-state the concept of God. The tag question was: "Who has helped you to come to some sort of understanding about God?"
FROM ALI IN MICHIGAN: Love the quote...lol FROM JACK: We know some things about God, but there is so much yet to be learned. Thanks for sharing your point of view during our conversations.
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: how about that! reference of female creator. interesting! as far as the influences along the way. too many to name, all of equal importance. thanks and love to all of you. FROM JACK: I knew that you'd probably pick up on that one. You're right about the influences on your life. Most of us can name several, including some that we're probably not aware of.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Then where are the blue people? FROM JACK: I see a lot of sadness out there in the world. MORE FROM OUTHOUSE: That certainly true. I don't believe anyone can know the answers except
God. And I believe He is bigger and better than all the questions we can ask. Personally, I believe He is full of color and brighter than anything we can imagine. I have a lot of questions...like why does it snow in April and why does it matter what color our skin is! Also, I like green and I believe He does too...that's why there are so many trees. We need to simplify our beliefs and believe as a little child does....we need to grow in our understanding but believe like a child.
FROM MOLINER CF: Who cares what God looks like as long as we know He/She is there? FROM JACK: Christians believe that Jesus came into the world to "reveal" God.
FROM BBC IN ILLINOIS: I love that phrase, unscrew the unscrutible…thanks for the thought and the smile. FROM JACK: The same professor said: "You can't find God at the end of a logical syllogism." Some people are more "memorable" than others.
FROM INDY GENIE: Kids....all ages.......help me to see the world "out of my box". They continually teach me and remind me of how much I don't know...and that' a good thing. FROM JACK: Isn't that interesting? Kids can be teachers.
FROM PRPH IN MINNESOTA: did you see the movie, Avatar? half the actors had blue skin. it was a little wierd at first but then you got used to it. hope you are having a good Lenten journey, 2011. FROM JACK: I saw the pictures, but not the picture show. Isn't it interesting how we get so caught up in the way people look. Helen Keller didn't have that problem.
FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: Some most important people who taught me to unscrew the unscrutable were the Stephens Ministries leaders and supervision group I used to belong to. From there I learned especially that I am a caregiver and that God is the curegiver. The unscrutable became much more bearable because of that essential teaching and hope. Sure took a load off my shoulders and back!!!!!!!!! All kinds of things are broken down when I became much more aware and observant that God is the curegiver, including the ills of racism and patriarchy. FROM JACK: There comes a time when we learn that it all doesn't depend on "me." We find out that things can be accomplished better with teamwork and with dependence upon God.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: ..."beyond their ken"? that's inscrutiable. FROM JACK: I don't recall using that word in a conversation, but, in this instance, it seemed to be appropriate.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I love that "unscrew the unscrutable" phrase, and had quoted it several times since you mentioned it awhile back. And I love today's quote, because that is exactly right...what do we know??! He, She, red, white or blue? But we know our God is an awesome God! I enjoyed THE SHACK for that reason, because when he needed a mother, God was the warm Mammy, when he needed a counselor, he was another character, a teacher, another person...Really the All-in-All presence of God Almighty! FROM JACK: I try not to repeat myself, unless "the shoe fits." God is beyond our understanding, so he makes himself known by becoming like us...without the imperfections.
Monday, April 04, 2011
Winning Words 4/4/11
“Life may not be exactly pleasant, but at least it’s not dull.” (H.L. Mencken) I have a friend who’s fond of saying, “Never a dull moment.” The twists and turns of life make it that way. Someone has said, “Life isn’t what you make it; it’s how you take it.” This week’s WWs seem to be going in that direction. There’s a lot to be said about looking at life in a more positive way. At least, it’s not dull. ;-) Jack
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Life is mostly good with a few glitches but it sure isn't dull! FROM JACK: Be on the alert for something that makes life interesting today.
FROM CWR VISITING IN MICHIGAN: ......that's for sure. FROM JACK: At least, something's for sure!
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: I haven't seen many movies lately, but I did see a most worthwhile one yesterday. The King's Speech was one of the best I have EVER seen. It's a story of struggles with stammering - a true, riviting story. FROM JACK: It's on my "Bucket List."
FROM ILLINOIS LIZ: I could use a little "dull" for a change... FROM JACK: Would you settle for some "pleasant?"
FROM MOLINER CF: Even "taking time to smell the flowers isn't dull. FROM JACK: I remember a church member who wouldn't come to church on Easter, because she couldn't stand the smell of Easter lilies.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Sometimes is does seem like Life supports the saying "No good deed goes unpunished" but most of the time, I'd say that Life is at least "pleasant"! ( In 1995 the Jets quarterback,Boomer Esiason told of driving home after a 28-24 loss to the Miami Dolphins when he stopped his car due to an accident. He got out and asked a woman if she was alright. Her window was broken and she was crying. She looked at him, and said,"Boomer?!" He said, "yes.." She said, "You guys really stink!! How could you lose that game today?!" So: THANKS you ##*!@&*#! It can happen to anyone. :-) Dr. Honeywell once quoted:"The supreme goal of life is to spend it on something that will outlast it." So be it dull or estatically exciting, we try to do that! FROM JACK: That Boomer story sounds like a fable, but the Honeywell quote seems like a real one...However, since they come from you, I'll take your word that both are true.
FROM MOLINER JT: Amen, Pastor, Amen !! FROM JACK: You know from first-hand experience, don't you?
“Life may not be exactly pleasant, but at least it’s not dull.” (H.L. Mencken) I have a friend who’s fond of saying, “Never a dull moment.” The twists and turns of life make it that way. Someone has said, “Life isn’t what you make it; it’s how you take it.” This week’s WWs seem to be going in that direction. There’s a lot to be said about looking at life in a more positive way. At least, it’s not dull. ;-) Jack
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Life is mostly good with a few glitches but it sure isn't dull! FROM JACK: Be on the alert for something that makes life interesting today.
FROM CWR VISITING IN MICHIGAN: ......that's for sure. FROM JACK: At least, something's for sure!
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: I haven't seen many movies lately, but I did see a most worthwhile one yesterday. The King's Speech was one of the best I have EVER seen. It's a story of struggles with stammering - a true, riviting story. FROM JACK: It's on my "Bucket List."
FROM ILLINOIS LIZ: I could use a little "dull" for a change... FROM JACK: Would you settle for some "pleasant?"
FROM MOLINER CF: Even "taking time to smell the flowers isn't dull. FROM JACK: I remember a church member who wouldn't come to church on Easter, because she couldn't stand the smell of Easter lilies.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Sometimes is does seem like Life supports the saying "No good deed goes unpunished" but most of the time, I'd say that Life is at least "pleasant"! ( In 1995 the Jets quarterback,Boomer Esiason told of driving home after a 28-24 loss to the Miami Dolphins when he stopped his car due to an accident. He got out and asked a woman if she was alright. Her window was broken and she was crying. She looked at him, and said,"Boomer?!" He said, "yes.." She said, "You guys really stink!! How could you lose that game today?!" So: THANKS you ##*!@&*#! It can happen to anyone. :-) Dr. Honeywell once quoted:"The supreme goal of life is to spend it on something that will outlast it." So be it dull or estatically exciting, we try to do that! FROM JACK: That Boomer story sounds like a fable, but the Honeywell quote seems like a real one...However, since they come from you, I'll take your word that both are true.
FROM MOLINER JT: Amen, Pastor, Amen !! FROM JACK: You know from first-hand experience, don't you?
Friday, April 01, 2011
Winning Words 4/1/11
“If every fool wore a crown, we should all be kings.” (Welsh Proverb) When I was a youngster, April 1, was one of my favorite days, a time when I’d try to play a “joke” on a friend or family member. I must say that the best one was pulled on me. On that day I wore the crown…but that’s another story. The point is, that we all have ways of making fools of ourselves…so, today, join the crowd and lighten up. ;-) Jack
FROM JR IN CALIFORNIA: Good Morning, Jack. When do you sleep. XXOO FROM JACK: If I were living in California, I'd be asleep at 2 am.
FROM CL IN CALIFORNIA: And in the words of my best friend Mike . . . if wishes were horses beggars would ride. FROM JACK: Any friend of Mike's is someone that I think I could be comfortable with.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: All would be kings indeed! I would love to hear the story of how and who got ya on April Fool's! FROM JACK: I'm not foolish enough to tell you. MORE FROM OUTHOUSE: Andy played the best one today at work. He put an official looking sign on the copier. It stated the copier had been updated and was now voice activated. It also stated for a person using it the first time, they may have to ask for copies several times until the voice was recognized. Unfortunately, he had meeting all day and wasn't able to watch or listen to the fun, but he heard many people talking about it all day.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: We should share those ways with others....so we laugh & avoid repeating them. FROM JACK: As I was driving along the freeway today, I saw a small sign by the roadside: "Laugh Loud; Live Long."
FROM MOLINER CF: Yea, well there's no fool like an old fool. FROM JACK: No foolin'?
FROM SH FROM MICHIGAN: This one is not politically correct. How do you suppose these WW make the
kings of the world feel. Tried to research on the internet and find out if the monarchy is popular in Wales.
Foolin with you FROM JACK: I quotes 'em as I reads 'em.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Oh, now you've made us curious, and we won't rest until we know the April Fool's story on you!!? My boys were pretty darn good at thinking up Fool's tricks...I pulled a few myself...I remember when I was teaching, I announced to my Lit class: "Close Your books, get out paper and pencil, and prepare for a test on the assigned story for today. It will count for 1/3 of your final grade. " They looked stunned, closed their books, reluctantly pulled out paper and pencil, and then I said, "Write at the top of your papers, the date, April First." Then I just stood there waiting for the light to dawn, and slowly, one by one, they started to grin...of course the slowest had to have an explanation, but most had a good laugh. Yes I'm sure we have all worn the Crown for Fools. I know I have. Keeps you humble, alright! Today my Beautician posted a sign on her door "DOOR NOT WORKING: GO AROUND TO THE FRONT DOOR." I thought, "This IS the front door!" But I dutifully (like all the others) tramped around in back to find another door, and on the back door was the sign, (You guessed it) "APRIL FOOL!" TRY THE FRONT DOOR...Good for a laugh. :-) Cheers for all Fools!!
FROM CJL IN OHIO: We have to look carefully for humor these days. I once heard the problems with the funnies are that they no longer are... FROM JACK: You're right. The funny paper has been replaced with the comic page, and even the comics aren't so comical, either. What is your favorite among the funnies?
FROM RADIO IKE: It has been wisely said that:"EVERYONE IS ENTITLED TO MAKE A FOOL OF THEMSELVES FOR 5 MINUTES A DAY, BUT MAKE SURE YOU DON'T GO OVER YOUR 5 MINUTE LIMIT... FROM JACK: You can time it with a cuckoo clock.
“If every fool wore a crown, we should all be kings.” (Welsh Proverb) When I was a youngster, April 1, was one of my favorite days, a time when I’d try to play a “joke” on a friend or family member. I must say that the best one was pulled on me. On that day I wore the crown…but that’s another story. The point is, that we all have ways of making fools of ourselves…so, today, join the crowd and lighten up. ;-) Jack
FROM JR IN CALIFORNIA: Good Morning, Jack. When do you sleep. XXOO FROM JACK: If I were living in California, I'd be asleep at 2 am.
FROM CL IN CALIFORNIA: And in the words of my best friend Mike . . . if wishes were horses beggars would ride. FROM JACK: Any friend of Mike's is someone that I think I could be comfortable with.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: All would be kings indeed! I would love to hear the story of how and who got ya on April Fool's! FROM JACK: I'm not foolish enough to tell you. MORE FROM OUTHOUSE: Andy played the best one today at work. He put an official looking sign on the copier. It stated the copier had been updated and was now voice activated. It also stated for a person using it the first time, they may have to ask for copies several times until the voice was recognized. Unfortunately, he had meeting all day and wasn't able to watch or listen to the fun, but he heard many people talking about it all day.
FROM CJL IN OHIO: We should share those ways with others....so we laugh & avoid repeating them. FROM JACK: As I was driving along the freeway today, I saw a small sign by the roadside: "Laugh Loud; Live Long."
FROM MOLINER CF: Yea, well there's no fool like an old fool. FROM JACK: No foolin'?
FROM SH FROM MICHIGAN: This one is not politically correct. How do you suppose these WW make the
kings of the world feel. Tried to research on the internet and find out if the monarchy is popular in Wales.
Foolin with you FROM JACK: I quotes 'em as I reads 'em.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Oh, now you've made us curious, and we won't rest until we know the April Fool's story on you!!? My boys were pretty darn good at thinking up Fool's tricks...I pulled a few myself...I remember when I was teaching, I announced to my Lit class: "Close Your books, get out paper and pencil, and prepare for a test on the assigned story for today. It will count for 1/3 of your final grade. " They looked stunned, closed their books, reluctantly pulled out paper and pencil, and then I said, "Write at the top of your papers, the date, April First." Then I just stood there waiting for the light to dawn, and slowly, one by one, they started to grin...of course the slowest had to have an explanation, but most had a good laugh. Yes I'm sure we have all worn the Crown for Fools. I know I have. Keeps you humble, alright! Today my Beautician posted a sign on her door "DOOR NOT WORKING: GO AROUND TO THE FRONT DOOR." I thought, "This IS the front door!" But I dutifully (like all the others) tramped around in back to find another door, and on the back door was the sign, (You guessed it) "APRIL FOOL!" TRY THE FRONT DOOR...Good for a laugh. :-) Cheers for all Fools!!
FROM CJL IN OHIO: We have to look carefully for humor these days. I once heard the problems with the funnies are that they no longer are... FROM JACK: You're right. The funny paper has been replaced with the comic page, and even the comics aren't so comical, either. What is your favorite among the funnies?
FROM RADIO IKE: It has been wisely said that:"EVERYONE IS ENTITLED TO MAKE A FOOL OF THEMSELVES FOR 5 MINUTES A DAY, BUT MAKE SURE YOU DON'T GO OVER YOUR 5 MINUTE LIMIT... FROM JACK: You can time it with a cuckoo clock.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)