Jack’s Winning Words 10/31/13
“The greatest escape I ever made was when I left Appleton, Wisconsin.” (Harry Houdini) Houdini died on Halloween, 1926, in Detroit. He had promised to come back after his death, to prove that there was life after death. The great escape artist has yet to free himself from the handcuffs of death. I didn’t know that Harry had lived in Appleton, where his father was a rabbi. What was the town where you grew up? ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: I remember your Moline. My Mom shopped there often. I loved M Wards, the NY Store, WT Grants, Woolworth's, and, most of all, Temples Sporting Goods. My Aunt lived at the top of 10th Street...right where the hill started.====JACK: My mother was the office manager at Monkey Wards. I also remember Hickey Bros. at the corner of 5th Ave & 16th St. "Your purchase free if we ever forget to thank you." I tried, but never got anything free.
FROM PC IN MICHIGAN: My dad was a professional magician and for my entire childhood through teens I was his assistant. Each year we would attend the Magic Convention in Colon, Michigan (the Magic Capital of the World by the way) where I would meet magicians from around the globe. Harry Houdini and his escape skills were often a topic of discussion. I have read several books about him. When my father passed away I inherited all of dads illusions...to this day I could be levitated or cut in half. (That is...if I am still as limber!) Happy Halloween!====JACK: What a great story! Recently I asked a group of people to "tell us something about yourself that we probably don't know!" People would have been surprised to see someone who had been cut in half.
FROM TARMART REV: Fran and I lived in Appleton for three years in between coming to Willmar, MN in 1989 to 1994 and moving back again in 1997 until presently. Out daughter, Maria, attended Houdini Grade School. We could have , but didn't visit the museum named for him and his noted accomplishments, and is housed in a former church building. His home is displayed in another portion of that city. BTW... true, there has never been a great escape artist who has yet freed himself from the handcuffs of death . . . however, be both are very acquainted with the Great Escape Artist whose Father freed Him from death and the grave!====JACK: Houdini Grade School? That must be a scarey place! So, you've escaped from Appleton and other places, too? It's interesting that the name of the Holy Ghost has been changed to the Holy Spirit, probably to make it less frightening.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Of course, Moline, which was a wonderful place in which to grow up and to learn the values needed to lead a productive and satisfying life. But, the whole world is very exciting, too, and I feel blessed to have seen so much of it and to meet so many people from all over the world. ====JACK: So, when you left, it wasn't so much an escape as it was going off on an exploration.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: Bayard, Iowa. It's not the same as when I grew up. There aren't that many families with children there anymore (big farms, not so many family farms left in Iowa), no school, no doctor or dentist, no grocery store or hardware store, the nursing home has been converted into a drug rehab place and people come from near and far to get off drugs, people who rent the apartments and some of the houses come out from Des Moines on public assistance, Church of Christ usually only has about 25 in attendance on a Sunday morning, actually, interestingly enough, Bayard is now much more diverse than when I was growing up and more "citified" except not with the great art and music, etc. culture of a big city but with the same stuff we're dealing with here in my suburb of Detroit where people are moving out of the city for the better life they dream of outside of the city. People of the countryside just need to get used to city people, because they will eventually try to come and live next to you wherever you are and I suppose vice versa. Gives the Church a lot of work to do preaching to people to love their neighbor. ====JACK: Oooooh! That's scarey to some people.....neighbors moving in who are different! Bayard ain't like it used to be. Neither is the world.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: One of the greatest weekends I ever had was in Appleton. ====JACK: Appleton might have been great for you for a weekend, but Harry was a teenager, and he wanted to be "free" to see the world. Isn't it interesting that he eventually came to Detroit and never escaped?====JON: I was not a teenager, just an old guy, speaking to 4,500 high school kids about personal finance for an FDIC Money Smart program. So I guess it depends on what you are doing in Appleton. Super nice people throughout the community, I liked it. Had a Starbuck's near the Kimberly Event Center.====JACK: Maybe Harry left because he couldn't find a Starbuck's at the time. We each move on for our own reasons.
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: Southfield, Detroit, Royal Oak...I was a part of nine siblings, and we needed to move each time our "shoe" had so many children my parents didn't know what else to do! Having a large family like that had many advantages --- but privacy wasn't one of them!====JACK: I suppose you never moved to a place where each of the kids had a private room. My parents slept on the unheated front porch (wearing stocking caps in the winter) so my sister and I could have our own rooms. I can't remember if I ever thanked them.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: My hometown was St. Charles MO, with a population of 11,000 during the years I was growing up. At age 25 I finished my military service abroad, and "how yuh gonna keep 'em down on the farm after they've seen Paree?" Since then I've had some life experiences that couldn't be matched in St. Charles. Nevertheless, I've enjoyed going back for a look from time to time. Contrary to the dictum, "you can't go home again", you can...you just don't want to stay.====JACK: The Cardinals couldn't beat the Boston Red Sox in the World Series, But there are some things in a small Missouri town, like St. Charles, that can't be beat by Boston, either.====RI: Your comment is so true...there are two sides to every story! (Regarding the Sox winning the Series, it's not a big deal for me because I'm not a big baseball fan like you are. For your benefit and for everyone in Detroit, it would have been great if the Tigers had held on and finished on top at the very end.)====JACK: I've been taught to pray, "Thy will be done." I didn't know that God was a BoSox fan.
FROM JB IN WISCONSIN: Irma WI====JACK: You had to live in Irma to really appreciate it... Bethany Lutheran Church...the general store...the railroad track...the school...the ball field...the Irma hill...the farms...the Maybe Inn. What I liked most were the people.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: GOOD OLD MOLINE, IL. IT WAS A GREAT PLACE TO GROW UP, AND ALTHOUGH WE HAD CURFEWS, QUITE STRICTLY KEPT, WE WERE GIVEN SOME FREEDOM AS TO WHAT WE PLANNED TO DO WITH OUR TIME. OF COURSE, OUR CHOICES WERE PRETTY TAME! BICYCLE HIKES, TENNIS MATCHES, MOVIES, SCHOOL AND CHURCH ACTIVITIES.====JACK: The pace was a little slower, as I remember it. Not so much school pressure. We proudly and enthusiastically sang..."We are Moliners, we're from Moline!"
FROM BBC IN ILLINOIS: I didn’t know he was from Appleton either – my father was born there, from whence I claim my Green Bay Packer roots.====JACK: I always thought you liked Da Bears.
FROM BM IN MICHIGAN: Detroit! 1.8 Million residents in 1950. Tacit segregation. Overcrowded public schools; beginnings of freeway systems, making it easier to move to the suburbs. As a kid, I never thought it wasn’t a good place to grow up. In 1961, when I was 20, my parents moved to Oak Park. ====JACK: Perceptions change as time changes. The good old days are made by the good memories that we have of them. That's the way it is with many things in life. We remember what we want to remember. I remember staying at the Tuller Hotel when I made my first visit to Detroit. It was a fancy place at the time. Now, it's a vacant lot.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: I grew up in Moline, Illinois, known in those days as "Sin Town." I never knew why, bit maybe that's because I was too young. It is on the Mississippi River and gets "cleansed" once a year, so I guess it is all right now. I visit there often and my daughter and granddaughter live there now. They tell me they are happy there and enjoy the Moline Ethic. I'm not sure what that means, but I think it is a good thing. You should go there sometime.====JACK: The Moline I grew up in doesn't exist anymore, except in my memory. ====PFC: What does? That's progress. Not always for the better. One thing is the same, though... Ginny McKibben's house!====JACK: At the corner of 7th St and 20th Ave with the glassed-in front porch!
FROM MH IN ILLINOIS: There is a museum in Appleton devoted to Houdini and displaying a lot of the equipment he used such as chains, locks etc. They count him as a resident, but I didn't know he wanted to get "out of town". Times change.====JACK: Sometimes we forget that adults were once teenagers, too, like Harry. Many young people can't wait to leave "this place" and try new things. I wonder if young Jesus had those urges, too?
FROM MOLINER JT: Good old Moline. Actually Coal Town, including the one room school house till 9 grade. Do you remember ?====JACK: I remember going to your house with the Luther Leaguers. It was always fun to go "out in the country" to the Teskes.
FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: My Aunt Edith Mattson lived in Appleton for 25 years. She was head dietitian at Russell Sage Hall at Lawrence College.====JACK: Appleton, like most cities, has a lot going for it. Houdini was probably looking for a bigger stage.
FROM EMT SINGS IN TC: Echo, MN Population never more than 500 people!====JACK: 499 when you "escaped."
FROM HC CHUCK: Jamestown, New York The states "Lil Sweden" the home of Lucille Ball , Chief Justice Jackson, the bird watcher whose escapes me right now, a Furniture mfg center of the 19 hundreds, a winter wonderland , a sportsman's paradise. A city of Churches with a tavern on every corner. That's my home town.====JACK: I didn't know that Lucy was a Swede. I read interesting stuff about Jackson. He went to Frewsburg H.S. and never graduated from college. He was appointed to the Supreme Court by FDR and was the chief prosecutor at the Nuremberg Trials.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/30/13
“It’s important that parents tell their kids, ‘No!’ once in a while.” (Mary Jo Peterson) Last week there was an article in the Detroit Free Press telling how today’s parents are having difficulty raising teens and tweeners. One mother wonders if she’s the only one facing the challenge of parenting in this day and age. Was it much different when you were growing up? I was given freedom…but within boundaries. ;-) Jack
FROM CN IN MICHIGAN: I figured it'd be a baseball quote since the subject was 'inning words!' ====JACK: My new keyboard and my sleepy fingers don't always cooperate when I ake up in the morning.
FROM TARMART REV: My parents (along with the church) certainly instilled the fear of God in my life...I didn't want to go to hell and it certainly did keep me out of a number hellish addictions, along with understanding how I fell prey to some of those worldly traps I did fall into...I'm sure they and the church were guilty of bordering on legalism, but know as well they both were helpful, for me anyway, to keep more on the narrow road of righteousness than the broader road of additional tangled messes, and who knows what else. "In all things I give thanks!"====JACK: I think that most parents want the "best" for their children. There are various ways that this might be accomplished. Sometimes children follow mom's and dad's parenting example with their own children, and sometimes they don't.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: Enjoyed your WW this morning. About freedom and boundaries. I've tried to process over and over just what I got from my church Church of Christ upbringing, was it talk about Jesus and not helping me to have a spiritual and physical relationship to Jesus--just what was I learning and absorbing from church in my early years but one thing I can say with certainty is in my family's home life, they were teaching and helping me to respect and care about and even lift up in importance people that the society so often wanted to avoid and even cast aside. And I guess in that home teaching there grew freedom from cultural restraints and boundaries that only tended to separate people and isolate people and a greater security in myself. This coming All Saints Day, I celebrate the memory of my Mom and Dad. Now my church life and early upbringing in my home life seem to have come together more. Thanks be to God!!!!!!!
Thanks for your thought-provoking WW again today.====JACK: As many of recall our growing up years, we are able to winnow them, saving the grain and letting the chaff fly away.
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I remember how every adult, whether a teacher or someone riding the bus into Detroit, had a certain authority over me (and all children for that matter). If any adult were to "guide" my behavior, it was as though my parents were doing the same. Times have changed indeed. The mantra of, "Don't trust strangers" has led to quite a different atmosphere. Couple that with the state of the culture that looks to the "experts" for advice to everything, and it's no wonder parents struggle. My parents weren't my friends, thankfully. Just as my friends weren't my parents. It was nice to have both! I don't envy parents today; I think the uphill climb is steeper.====JACK: One of the important things that an effective "teacher" needs to know is that there is a difference between being friendly and being a friend.
FROM DOCTOR PAUL: It's good parenting advice to be clear on what's acceptable and what's not. Just saying"no" without some communication between parent and child just brings resentment and misses a golden opportunity for "a teachable moment." However, once reasons are discussed and arguing persists...forms of no may be the only option..such as.."because as your patent, I'm not comfortable with...." This is no guarantee that the child ( any age) will walk away with a smile on their face, but a war has probably been avoided and the child has been taken out of a potentially dangerous situation.====JACK: The "No" is often followed by a "Why." After trying to explain and receiving another, "Why?"....the exasperated parent is permitted to say, "Just because!"
FROM TS IN MICHIGAN: some once asked me "do you realize how often we say 'no' and 'don't' to our children?" I became conscious of it. It's very, very frequent, particularly when they are small. ====JACK: Is G-d like that when he deals with our "childish" ways?
FROM WISCONSIN DONNA: Lack of boundaries? Big concern today. AND they must be set early. It's hard for parents to say "No" to a 17 year old if they haven't practiced.====JACK: Which of these pictures do you think best describes how parenting should be done?
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: My wife and I always told our kids, "It's OK to want…" Adding sometimes, "… it builds character." ====JACK: That's a good one....Give them an answer that causes them to stop and wonder, "What did she just say?"
FROM OLD JOAN: I think we were given boundaries, values, and NOT everything our little hearts desired. There didn't seem to be very many "Joneses" with whom we needed to keep up. Just the opinion of an older person!====JACK: As an experiment....Ask your grandchildren if they now what "Keeping up with the Joneses" means?
FROM RI IN BOSTON: Essentially my parents trusted me to use sound judgment regarding the things I did. If I wanted something, my parents didn't say "no", they just told me to go earn the money to get what I wanted. Due to circumstances, my parents had to manage the money wisely, and they did the best they could for our food and shelter. When an opportunity for me to work came along I took advantage of it. Not only was that beneficial to my parents, it also taught me about responsibility and the difference between "wanting" and "needing."====JACK: I can't ever remember getting an allowance, but I always seemed to have some money...not a lot, but enough. My parents gave me more than cash!====RI: You are so right about "cash" from our parents being of little meaning. The money is long gone but the significant legacy from our parents continues to sustain us.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: It has been wisely said "Freedom without responsibility leads to anarchy."
By the way have you considered picking the "Top 365 Winning Words Quotations", only choosing the ones that have a positive message & by printing them in a booklet format.====JACK: Did you ever have responsibilities when you were a kid? I had to go downstairs and start the fire in the furnace on winter mornings. That involved shoveling coal and carrying out the ashes and clinkers. Try explaining that to a teenager today. BTW, I'm satisfied to let Winning Words be like a casual daily greeting between friends. Someone can put together a booklet after I've escaped this world...if they choose to.
FROM PASTIE PAT IN THE HOLY LAND: I'm livin' the dream --- participating in the olive harvest in the West Bank.====JACK: Tell me....How do they get those little red things into the olives, or do they come that way?
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: no is a good word to learn. i had much freedom as well, but i knew that "no meant no"!====JACK: You were raised right! Right?
“It’s important that parents tell their kids, ‘No!’ once in a while.” (Mary Jo Peterson) Last week there was an article in the Detroit Free Press telling how today’s parents are having difficulty raising teens and tweeners. One mother wonders if she’s the only one facing the challenge of parenting in this day and age. Was it much different when you were growing up? I was given freedom…but within boundaries. ;-) Jack
FROM CN IN MICHIGAN: I figured it'd be a baseball quote since the subject was 'inning words!' ====JACK: My new keyboard and my sleepy fingers don't always cooperate when I ake up in the morning.
FROM TARMART REV: My parents (along with the church) certainly instilled the fear of God in my life...I didn't want to go to hell and it certainly did keep me out of a number hellish addictions, along with understanding how I fell prey to some of those worldly traps I did fall into...I'm sure they and the church were guilty of bordering on legalism, but know as well they both were helpful, for me anyway, to keep more on the narrow road of righteousness than the broader road of additional tangled messes, and who knows what else. "In all things I give thanks!"====JACK: I think that most parents want the "best" for their children. There are various ways that this might be accomplished. Sometimes children follow mom's and dad's parenting example with their own children, and sometimes they don't.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: Enjoyed your WW this morning. About freedom and boundaries. I've tried to process over and over just what I got from my church Church of Christ upbringing, was it talk about Jesus and not helping me to have a spiritual and physical relationship to Jesus--just what was I learning and absorbing from church in my early years but one thing I can say with certainty is in my family's home life, they were teaching and helping me to respect and care about and even lift up in importance people that the society so often wanted to avoid and even cast aside. And I guess in that home teaching there grew freedom from cultural restraints and boundaries that only tended to separate people and isolate people and a greater security in myself. This coming All Saints Day, I celebrate the memory of my Mom and Dad. Now my church life and early upbringing in my home life seem to have come together more. Thanks be to God!!!!!!!
Thanks for your thought-provoking WW again today.====JACK: As many of recall our growing up years, we are able to winnow them, saving the grain and letting the chaff fly away.
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I remember how every adult, whether a teacher or someone riding the bus into Detroit, had a certain authority over me (and all children for that matter). If any adult were to "guide" my behavior, it was as though my parents were doing the same. Times have changed indeed. The mantra of, "Don't trust strangers" has led to quite a different atmosphere. Couple that with the state of the culture that looks to the "experts" for advice to everything, and it's no wonder parents struggle. My parents weren't my friends, thankfully. Just as my friends weren't my parents. It was nice to have both! I don't envy parents today; I think the uphill climb is steeper.====JACK: One of the important things that an effective "teacher" needs to know is that there is a difference between being friendly and being a friend.
FROM DOCTOR PAUL: It's good parenting advice to be clear on what's acceptable and what's not. Just saying"no" without some communication between parent and child just brings resentment and misses a golden opportunity for "a teachable moment." However, once reasons are discussed and arguing persists...forms of no may be the only option..such as.."because as your patent, I'm not comfortable with...." This is no guarantee that the child ( any age) will walk away with a smile on their face, but a war has probably been avoided and the child has been taken out of a potentially dangerous situation.====JACK: The "No" is often followed by a "Why." After trying to explain and receiving another, "Why?"....the exasperated parent is permitted to say, "Just because!"
FROM TS IN MICHIGAN: some once asked me "do you realize how often we say 'no' and 'don't' to our children?" I became conscious of it. It's very, very frequent, particularly when they are small. ====JACK: Is G-d like that when he deals with our "childish" ways?
FROM WISCONSIN DONNA: Lack of boundaries? Big concern today. AND they must be set early. It's hard for parents to say "No" to a 17 year old if they haven't practiced.====JACK: Which of these pictures do you think best describes how parenting should be done?
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: My wife and I always told our kids, "It's OK to want…" Adding sometimes, "… it builds character." ====JACK: That's a good one....Give them an answer that causes them to stop and wonder, "What did she just say?"
FROM OLD JOAN: I think we were given boundaries, values, and NOT everything our little hearts desired. There didn't seem to be very many "Joneses" with whom we needed to keep up. Just the opinion of an older person!====JACK: As an experiment....Ask your grandchildren if they now what "Keeping up with the Joneses" means?
FROM RI IN BOSTON: Essentially my parents trusted me to use sound judgment regarding the things I did. If I wanted something, my parents didn't say "no", they just told me to go earn the money to get what I wanted. Due to circumstances, my parents had to manage the money wisely, and they did the best they could for our food and shelter. When an opportunity for me to work came along I took advantage of it. Not only was that beneficial to my parents, it also taught me about responsibility and the difference between "wanting" and "needing."====JACK: I can't ever remember getting an allowance, but I always seemed to have some money...not a lot, but enough. My parents gave me more than cash!====RI: You are so right about "cash" from our parents being of little meaning. The money is long gone but the significant legacy from our parents continues to sustain us.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: It has been wisely said "Freedom without responsibility leads to anarchy."
By the way have you considered picking the "Top 365 Winning Words Quotations", only choosing the ones that have a positive message & by printing them in a booklet format.====JACK: Did you ever have responsibilities when you were a kid? I had to go downstairs and start the fire in the furnace on winter mornings. That involved shoveling coal and carrying out the ashes and clinkers. Try explaining that to a teenager today. BTW, I'm satisfied to let Winning Words be like a casual daily greeting between friends. Someone can put together a booklet after I've escaped this world...if they choose to.
FROM PASTIE PAT IN THE HOLY LAND: I'm livin' the dream --- participating in the olive harvest in the West Bank.====JACK: Tell me....How do they get those little red things into the olives, or do they come that way?
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: no is a good word to learn. i had much freedom as well, but i knew that "no meant no"!====JACK: You were raised right! Right?
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/29/13
“Not everything that can be counted, counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.” (Albert Einstein) Yogi Berra wrote, “I really didn’t say everything I said.” Many quotes are attributed to Einstein. I wonder how much he didn’t say that they say he said? A friend of mine was at Princeton and saw the retired Einstein walking on campus. Have you ever met someone famous? I once talked with Billy Graham. ;-) Jack
FROM RI IN BOSTON: OK then, let's step up and talk about the company we keep! I met and talked with Eleanor Roosevelt, then had my picture taken with her. Jimmy Carter stopped to talk with me, after his Presidency. My wife and I were invited to have dinner with Bernard Leach in his home. And the list goes on...well, don't "count" on it!====JACK: I had to look up Bernard, but that says more about me than it does about him. He, indeed, is (was) a famous person. I didn't have to Google Jimmy or Eleanor.
FROM BBC IN ILLINOIS: I enjoyed this one especially. Thanks====JACK: I'm sure that you, in your experiences, have met someone famous.
FROM BM IN MICHIGAN: Elie Wiesel; John F. Kennedy (five seconds).====JACK: Those two are famous in two different ways. Which of them has had the most influence on people...do you think?
FROM TARMART REV: I identity more with people with whom I have a relationship with...Paul Harvey and I passed on an escalator, he going down and me going up, we smiled cordially at each other in passing. ====JACK: You might have said, "Hi Paul; my names Paul, too."
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: "Some people count some of the time and all of the people count some of the time, but not all of the people count all of the time." Abe Hodson ====JACK: With Jesus, everybody counts all of the time.
FROM DB IN MICHIGAN: Jack, you got to talk with Billy Graham? That's very interesting! What did you two talk about? When and where?====JACK: I once took a group of kids to hear a popular youth pastor named, Rev. Bill Graham. He was visiting in our community of Moline, Illinois. Years later, when Billy Graham was speaking to the Detroit Economic Club, I went up to him afterward and asked if he remembered that time in Moline. He actually did. He was a guest in the home of a minister that I knew. We talked about those days, and he wanted to know what kind of work I was doing in Detroit. I told him about Holy Spirit Chuirch. It was a good conversation, like two friends reminiscing.====DB: That's really fantastic! -- especially to find out that he was a "regular guy." Thanks for sharing!
FROM JB IN WISCONSIN: I talked to Paul Harvey.====JACK: What's the rest of the story?====JB: Wally and I were at a conference in Las Vegas - Paul Harvey was the keynote speaker. Wally and I were walking through the almost empty lobby at the MGM Grand when in walked Paul Harvey. My feet fairly flew me across the lobby to meet him. He was very nice. I enjoyed listening to him on the radio and enjoyed his books. If Paul Harvey endorsed a product, I had to believe it was good because he had so much integrity. That meeting is a very special memory for me.
FROM JT IN MINNESOTA: Wow!! Billy Graham. That would be an impressive person to talk with. The closest I think I ever got was when I was in the bathroom with Elizabeth Dole. She washed her hands while I washed mine. Wow ! My brother Jack, salt of the earth farmer, says memorably statements. We were playing cards one night and he said, "If I don't get to bed pretty soon, I'll sleep all night." I wish I could remember more.====JACK: My words with Billy were an actual conversation about an event that happened many years before, when he was a young preacher. It was fun to talk with him as a person and not as a celebrity. It didn't take place in the men's room.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I sold a soft drink to Loretta Lyn at the concession stand in Des Moines, Iowa, and also walked past Shirley Temple Black in the San Francisco Airport. Neither of them were very tall and look bigger in their pictures.====JACK: My brother-in-law and I were playing golf. Don Meredith, the pro football player (for the Dallas Cowboys), and his friend asked if they could play along with us. They hit the ball a lot further than we did.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: BILL AND I SAT AT THE SAME TABLE WITH BILLY GRAHAM IN CHICAGO WHEN A GROUP WAS PLANNING THE WHEATON CRUSADE; HAD CURSORY CONVERSATIONS, BUT WE WERE VERY IMPRESSED WITH HIS HUMILITY AND "DOWN HOME" EASY MANNER....HE DID NOT SEEM AT ALL IMPRESSED WITH HIMSELF, EXCEPT AS A VESSEL TO BE USED BY GOD! I LOVED HIS WIFE RUTH, SUCH A SENSE OF HUMOR AND LIVELINESS....BILLY WOULDN'[T HAVE BEEN WHO HE WAS WITHOUT HER, IN MY, AND MANY OTHERS' OPINION. THE VICTORY CHORUS IN MOLINE SANG WITH HOWARD KEEL AND JANET GAYNOR IN CHICAGO. THEY COULDN'T HAVE BEEN NICER TO US MIDWESTERN HIGH SCHOOLERS!!====JACK; Billy Graham graduated from Wheaton College (with a degree in antropology), after leaving Bob Jones Univ, because it was too legalistic. The Trinity Luther League went to hear him at the Scottish Rite Cathedral when he just a young pastor.:
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: Today's WW certainly filled my day with a range of memories of "famous" (for me) someones ....William Glasser.Dr. Robert Schuller, Lucille Clifton, Chiam Potok, Dr. Benjamin Carson....and some near misses. And they all counted so much! It's been a fun day Thanks, once aain, ......Oh, and Carl Sandburg...touched his sleeve with my thumb!!!!! ==-==JACK: Those are some good ones. I also met Schuller. We talked about how we both began our ministries near the same time. His became the Crystal Cathedral, and mine became Winning Words.
====KF: Depends on your definition of famous! I met Danny Thomas at The Roostertail; in high school I used to work on the ALSAC campaign which supported St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital; he sponsored a dinner for the volunteers. Wish I still had that picture (maybe I do?). I also 'ran into' Gordie Howe at Somerset Collection about 10 years ago; Mark and I talked to him for a bit (he was just sitting by himself , waiting for his wife); Steph & Rose were underwhelmed by the visit - they weren't around when he was such a star! I'd still like to meet Billy Graham - & we are in the Asheville area just about every year. Maybe we'll run into him......====JACK: If you happen to run into Billy, ask him if he remembers the conversation he had with me. BTW, When I first moved to the Detroit area, someone came up to me in a restaurant and said, "You're Gordie Howe, aren't you?" .
“Not everything that can be counted, counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.” (Albert Einstein) Yogi Berra wrote, “I really didn’t say everything I said.” Many quotes are attributed to Einstein. I wonder how much he didn’t say that they say he said? A friend of mine was at Princeton and saw the retired Einstein walking on campus. Have you ever met someone famous? I once talked with Billy Graham. ;-) Jack
FROM RI IN BOSTON: OK then, let's step up and talk about the company we keep! I met and talked with Eleanor Roosevelt, then had my picture taken with her. Jimmy Carter stopped to talk with me, after his Presidency. My wife and I were invited to have dinner with Bernard Leach in his home. And the list goes on...well, don't "count" on it!====JACK: I had to look up Bernard, but that says more about me than it does about him. He, indeed, is (was) a famous person. I didn't have to Google Jimmy or Eleanor.
FROM BBC IN ILLINOIS: I enjoyed this one especially. Thanks====JACK: I'm sure that you, in your experiences, have met someone famous.
FROM BM IN MICHIGAN: Elie Wiesel; John F. Kennedy (five seconds).====JACK: Those two are famous in two different ways. Which of them has had the most influence on people...do you think?
FROM TARMART REV: I identity more with people with whom I have a relationship with...Paul Harvey and I passed on an escalator, he going down and me going up, we smiled cordially at each other in passing. ====JACK: You might have said, "Hi Paul; my names Paul, too."
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: "Some people count some of the time and all of the people count some of the time, but not all of the people count all of the time." Abe Hodson ====JACK: With Jesus, everybody counts all of the time.
FROM DB IN MICHIGAN: Jack, you got to talk with Billy Graham? That's very interesting! What did you two talk about? When and where?====JACK: I once took a group of kids to hear a popular youth pastor named, Rev. Bill Graham. He was visiting in our community of Moline, Illinois. Years later, when Billy Graham was speaking to the Detroit Economic Club, I went up to him afterward and asked if he remembered that time in Moline. He actually did. He was a guest in the home of a minister that I knew. We talked about those days, and he wanted to know what kind of work I was doing in Detroit. I told him about Holy Spirit Chuirch. It was a good conversation, like two friends reminiscing.====DB: That's really fantastic! -- especially to find out that he was a "regular guy." Thanks for sharing!
FROM JB IN WISCONSIN: I talked to Paul Harvey.====JACK: What's the rest of the story?====JB: Wally and I were at a conference in Las Vegas - Paul Harvey was the keynote speaker. Wally and I were walking through the almost empty lobby at the MGM Grand when in walked Paul Harvey. My feet fairly flew me across the lobby to meet him. He was very nice. I enjoyed listening to him on the radio and enjoyed his books. If Paul Harvey endorsed a product, I had to believe it was good because he had so much integrity. That meeting is a very special memory for me.
FROM JT IN MINNESOTA: Wow!! Billy Graham. That would be an impressive person to talk with. The closest I think I ever got was when I was in the bathroom with Elizabeth Dole. She washed her hands while I washed mine. Wow ! My brother Jack, salt of the earth farmer, says memorably statements. We were playing cards one night and he said, "If I don't get to bed pretty soon, I'll sleep all night." I wish I could remember more.====JACK: My words with Billy were an actual conversation about an event that happened many years before, when he was a young preacher. It was fun to talk with him as a person and not as a celebrity. It didn't take place in the men's room.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I sold a soft drink to Loretta Lyn at the concession stand in Des Moines, Iowa, and also walked past Shirley Temple Black in the San Francisco Airport. Neither of them were very tall and look bigger in their pictures.====JACK: My brother-in-law and I were playing golf. Don Meredith, the pro football player (for the Dallas Cowboys), and his friend asked if they could play along with us. They hit the ball a lot further than we did.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: BILL AND I SAT AT THE SAME TABLE WITH BILLY GRAHAM IN CHICAGO WHEN A GROUP WAS PLANNING THE WHEATON CRUSADE; HAD CURSORY CONVERSATIONS, BUT WE WERE VERY IMPRESSED WITH HIS HUMILITY AND "DOWN HOME" EASY MANNER....HE DID NOT SEEM AT ALL IMPRESSED WITH HIMSELF, EXCEPT AS A VESSEL TO BE USED BY GOD! I LOVED HIS WIFE RUTH, SUCH A SENSE OF HUMOR AND LIVELINESS....BILLY WOULDN'[T HAVE BEEN WHO HE WAS WITHOUT HER, IN MY, AND MANY OTHERS' OPINION. THE VICTORY CHORUS IN MOLINE SANG WITH HOWARD KEEL AND JANET GAYNOR IN CHICAGO. THEY COULDN'T HAVE BEEN NICER TO US MIDWESTERN HIGH SCHOOLERS!!====JACK; Billy Graham graduated from Wheaton College (with a degree in antropology), after leaving Bob Jones Univ, because it was too legalistic. The Trinity Luther League went to hear him at the Scottish Rite Cathedral when he just a young pastor.:
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: Today's WW certainly filled my day with a range of memories of "famous" (for me) someones ....William Glasser.Dr. Robert Schuller, Lucille Clifton, Chiam Potok, Dr. Benjamin Carson....and some near misses. And they all counted so much! It's been a fun day Thanks, once aain, ......Oh, and Carl Sandburg...touched his sleeve with my thumb!!!!! ==-==JACK: Those are some good ones. I also met Schuller. We talked about how we both began our ministries near the same time. His became the Crystal Cathedral, and mine became Winning Words.
====KF: Depends on your definition of famous! I met Danny Thomas at The Roostertail; in high school I used to work on the ALSAC campaign which supported St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital; he sponsored a dinner for the volunteers. Wish I still had that picture (maybe I do?). I also 'ran into' Gordie Howe at Somerset Collection about 10 years ago; Mark and I talked to him for a bit (he was just sitting by himself , waiting for his wife); Steph & Rose were underwhelmed by the visit - they weren't around when he was such a star! I'd still like to meet Billy Graham - & we are in the Asheville area just about every year. Maybe we'll run into him......====JACK: If you happen to run into Billy, ask him if he remembers the conversation he had with me. BTW, When I first moved to the Detroit area, someone came up to me in a restaurant and said, "You're Gordie Howe, aren't you?" .
Monday, October 28, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/28/13
“Some people say I’m a dreamer, others say, 'If you fall asleep at work again we’re going to have to let you go.'” (Uncle Si) Am I the only one who’s never seen an episode of Duck Dynasty? The head of General Motors once hired someone whose job was just to sit and dream, hoping that he would come up with new ideas. Walt Disney said, “If you can dream it, you can do it.” Are there dreams that you have? ;-) Jack
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I'm a dreamer and a reader and empathetic to people who are suffering in this world's economic injustices. Just got a book from Augsburg Fortress Christian Economic Ethics: History and Implications by Daniel K. Finn, hoping to get a better handle both on the problem and what the Bible might say about how we Christians should make decisions in today's world. It's sort of interesting to me that there are also so many references to work and even a corporation in your commentary of the winning words. My most urgent dream is that no person in the world would be without shelter, water, food, medical care, good government and dare I say even an education to rise up from all the withouts. I haven't seen Duck Dynasty, will look it up on the internet and find out what it has to do with things. Glad you're back in the saddle again. Thought-provoking WW as you always seem to come up with.====JACK: I talked with a man who wanted to help small farmers in Tanzania increase their crop production. He organized a help force which went to Africa and helped the farmers increase yields 4 to 5 times what they had been in the past...a dream becomes a reality.
FROM DS IN CALIFORNIA: I'm with you, Jack. Never have seen Duck Dynasty. Are we missing something? I thought I saw all of that stuff when I lived in Georgia.====JACK: I've heard that there's a "religious" bent to the program. I've also hears that certain "religious" words are bleeped by the censor. Since I haven't seen it, I can't comment one way or another..
FROM HR IN MICHIGAN: Duck what? I have seen commercials but never the show, although I like the quote.====JACK: So...I'm not the only one.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: I dream of Jeanie with the light brown hair ... or am I fantasizing? ====JACK: You often seem to be in a dream world.
FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: I have not seen Duck Dynasty!====JACK: I suspicious when it comes to TV rating figures.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: I watched about five minutes of it, and couldn't stand it... I do not like, however, that the cable network is censoring their references to Jesus, and "bleeping" the characters, as if they are swearing... which they swear they are not. It is a shame that we have grown so intolerant of other people's religions. Or lack of it. Freedom means never having to say you're sorry for your religion. Or lack of it. I am not offended by anyone's menorah, cross, whatever... it is their right.====JACK: Have you checked out the validity of your information about the censor? There are so many different religions with so many different ideas that's it's difficult not to offend somebody sometime.====LIZ: yes, the duck dynasty guy said it in an interview... they want that changed in new contract.====JACK: When they start bleeping the Charlie Brown Christmas Story, I'll believe that there's a conspiracy.
FROM TARMART REV: Early on as a young summer intern your pastor in Denver, CO...the pastor told me he wanted me to study at college, not to sit there reading a book about your ministry...another pastor I worked with as his assistant told us as a staff that we should take time out of our schedule and day dream as to how to make a areas better equipped for ministry...I preferred the latter approach...Tally Hall in Farmington Hills, 1988 dreaming ...where I came up with the ministry I've been apart of these past 40+ years in Willmar and Kandiyohi County Minnesota.====JACK: It's rewarding when our dreams can be seen to come alive, affecting the lives of other people.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: YOU ARE NOT ALONE...I HAVE NEVER SEEN AN EPISODE, AND DON'T INTEND TO!====JACK: I suppose you're too busy watching Honey Boo Boo.
FROM JT IN MICHIGAN: I haven't seen Duck Dynasty this fall but watched it several times last year. How several normal, attractive ladies ended up with those men beats me but they are a close-knit family. (How many other TV programs do you see where the family says grace together?====JACK: Sounds like the couple on Green Acres....Oliver and Lisa. Do you remember Arnold Ziffle?
“Some people say I’m a dreamer, others say, 'If you fall asleep at work again we’re going to have to let you go.'” (Uncle Si) Am I the only one who’s never seen an episode of Duck Dynasty? The head of General Motors once hired someone whose job was just to sit and dream, hoping that he would come up with new ideas. Walt Disney said, “If you can dream it, you can do it.” Are there dreams that you have? ;-) Jack
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I'm a dreamer and a reader and empathetic to people who are suffering in this world's economic injustices. Just got a book from Augsburg Fortress Christian Economic Ethics: History and Implications by Daniel K. Finn, hoping to get a better handle both on the problem and what the Bible might say about how we Christians should make decisions in today's world. It's sort of interesting to me that there are also so many references to work and even a corporation in your commentary of the winning words. My most urgent dream is that no person in the world would be without shelter, water, food, medical care, good government and dare I say even an education to rise up from all the withouts. I haven't seen Duck Dynasty, will look it up on the internet and find out what it has to do with things. Glad you're back in the saddle again. Thought-provoking WW as you always seem to come up with.====JACK: I talked with a man who wanted to help small farmers in Tanzania increase their crop production. He organized a help force which went to Africa and helped the farmers increase yields 4 to 5 times what they had been in the past...a dream becomes a reality.
FROM DS IN CALIFORNIA: I'm with you, Jack. Never have seen Duck Dynasty. Are we missing something? I thought I saw all of that stuff when I lived in Georgia.====JACK: I've heard that there's a "religious" bent to the program. I've also hears that certain "religious" words are bleeped by the censor. Since I haven't seen it, I can't comment one way or another..
FROM HR IN MICHIGAN: Duck what? I have seen commercials but never the show, although I like the quote.====JACK: So...I'm not the only one.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: I dream of Jeanie with the light brown hair ... or am I fantasizing? ====JACK: You often seem to be in a dream world.
FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: I have not seen Duck Dynasty!====JACK: I suspicious when it comes to TV rating figures.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: I watched about five minutes of it, and couldn't stand it... I do not like, however, that the cable network is censoring their references to Jesus, and "bleeping" the characters, as if they are swearing... which they swear they are not. It is a shame that we have grown so intolerant of other people's religions. Or lack of it. Freedom means never having to say you're sorry for your religion. Or lack of it. I am not offended by anyone's menorah, cross, whatever... it is their right.====JACK: Have you checked out the validity of your information about the censor? There are so many different religions with so many different ideas that's it's difficult not to offend somebody sometime.====LIZ: yes, the duck dynasty guy said it in an interview... they want that changed in new contract.====JACK: When they start bleeping the Charlie Brown Christmas Story, I'll believe that there's a conspiracy.
FROM TARMART REV: Early on as a young summer intern your pastor in Denver, CO...the pastor told me he wanted me to study at college, not to sit there reading a book about your ministry...another pastor I worked with as his assistant told us as a staff that we should take time out of our schedule and day dream as to how to make a areas better equipped for ministry...I preferred the latter approach...Tally Hall in Farmington Hills, 1988 dreaming ...where I came up with the ministry I've been apart of these past 40+ years in Willmar and Kandiyohi County Minnesota.====JACK: It's rewarding when our dreams can be seen to come alive, affecting the lives of other people.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: YOU ARE NOT ALONE...I HAVE NEVER SEEN AN EPISODE, AND DON'T INTEND TO!====JACK: I suppose you're too busy watching Honey Boo Boo.
FROM JT IN MICHIGAN: I haven't seen Duck Dynasty this fall but watched it several times last year. How several normal, attractive ladies ended up with those men beats me but they are a close-knit family. (How many other TV programs do you see where the family says grace together?====JACK: Sounds like the couple on Green Acres....Oliver and Lisa. Do you remember Arnold Ziffle?
Friday, October 25, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/25/13
“The happiest people are those who help others." (Scott Pelley) The 4th Saturday in October is Make a Difference Day, a day for doing things to improve the world around you. Here are some things that people have done…go to a park and pick up trash…rake the leaves in your neighbor’s yard…volunteer to work in a soup kitchen, or go to a thrift store and offer to sort clothes. Making a difference can make you happy! ;-) Jack
“The happiest people are those who help others." (Scott Pelley) The 4th Saturday in October is Make a Difference Day, a day for doing things to improve the world around you. Here are some things that people have done…go to a park and pick up trash…rake the leaves in your neighbor’s yard…volunteer to work in a soup kitchen, or go to a thrift store and offer to sort clothes. Making a difference can make you happy! ;-) Jack
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/24/13
“Flaming enthusiasm, backed up by horse sense and persistence, is the quality that most frequently makes for success.” (Dale Carnegie) One of the books that started me to be a positive thinker was Carnegie’s: “How To Win Friends…” Maybe you’ve read it. In today’s quote, I like his use of the words, horse sense and enthusiasm. Enthusiasm means to be inspired by God. Do you know what horse sense means? ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: Define it. I think it is a term like " common sense". That means what the speaker wants it to mean...usually that the speaker is right even tho he doesn't know much about the subject. ====JACK: I thought I knew the meaning, until I looked up the derivation. It goes back to the days when horses were more important to daily life than they are now. Someone with horse sense was someone who had knowledge about horses. And since horses were "common" at that time, the person with horse sense was that one who had a good sense of things common and basic.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: My father used the term "horse sense" frequently during my youth. Another of his comments when I'd attempt something without really thinking about it was "use your head." Apparently the two quotes suggest thinking through any situation in which we find ourselves, before we proceed. I've never given any thought to the idea of "horse sense" but I suppose it's a reference to a horse's self-guidance to know its way home...stories were told of horses finding the way home by their instincts, even when the rider or buggy driver fell asleep.====JACK: Many terms, familiar in the past, need to be translated into the present day idiom. My grandson installed a new modem for my computer yesterday. He knows more about computers than he does about horses. The head on his shoulders is filled with knowledge different from that which is in mine. Your father's advice to "use your head" is good for each generation.
FROM TARMART REV: I was thinking of all the wisdom we learned from "Hee Haw!" . . . but that was a jackass wearing a hat, I believe!? 0;-/====JACK: This should bring a lot of laughs in Willmar... CATHY BAKER: I'd marry a doctor so I could stay well for nothing. LULU ROMAN: I'd marry a grocer so I could eat for nothing.. SUSAN RAYE: I'd marry a preacher so I could be good for nothing.====REV: When people often say, "Be good!" . . . I often reply, "I get paid to!!"
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: "Horse Sense" is derived from an episode of the Lone Ranger, where Tonto told him he didn't have as much sense as Silver. It seems that he was trying to cross the river on horseback and his boots filled with water, almost drowning horse and rider.====JACK: When I first came to Michigan, I went to a small cafe, and there were only two of us. We began chatting, and I found out that he was Clayton Moore, the actor who played the Lone Ranger. Jay Silverheels was out in the parking lot with the horses.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: My father-in-law took Dale Carnegie's course on "How To Win Friends, and Influence People". He only had an 8th grade education, but did have "horse sense", and continued to learn well into adulthood. He served as President of the School Board, and Rotary, was the big Kehunah in Shriners, and CEO of his Construction business Quite amazing for a simple "farm kid" ! Carnegie influenced a LOT of people! Enthusiasm is a MUST for any successful endeavor! Good quote today! ====JACK: I was reading an article this week about business schools that grant MBAs. One of the best qualities of a successful business(person) is the ability to meet and influence people...as Carnegie taught.
“Flaming enthusiasm, backed up by horse sense and persistence, is the quality that most frequently makes for success.” (Dale Carnegie) One of the books that started me to be a positive thinker was Carnegie’s: “How To Win Friends…” Maybe you’ve read it. In today’s quote, I like his use of the words, horse sense and enthusiasm. Enthusiasm means to be inspired by God. Do you know what horse sense means? ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: Define it. I think it is a term like " common sense". That means what the speaker wants it to mean...usually that the speaker is right even tho he doesn't know much about the subject. ====JACK: I thought I knew the meaning, until I looked up the derivation. It goes back to the days when horses were more important to daily life than they are now. Someone with horse sense was someone who had knowledge about horses. And since horses were "common" at that time, the person with horse sense was that one who had a good sense of things common and basic.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: My father used the term "horse sense" frequently during my youth. Another of his comments when I'd attempt something without really thinking about it was "use your head." Apparently the two quotes suggest thinking through any situation in which we find ourselves, before we proceed. I've never given any thought to the idea of "horse sense" but I suppose it's a reference to a horse's self-guidance to know its way home...stories were told of horses finding the way home by their instincts, even when the rider or buggy driver fell asleep.====JACK: Many terms, familiar in the past, need to be translated into the present day idiom. My grandson installed a new modem for my computer yesterday. He knows more about computers than he does about horses. The head on his shoulders is filled with knowledge different from that which is in mine. Your father's advice to "use your head" is good for each generation.
FROM TARMART REV: I was thinking of all the wisdom we learned from "Hee Haw!" . . . but that was a jackass wearing a hat, I believe!? 0;-/====JACK: This should bring a lot of laughs in Willmar... CATHY BAKER: I'd marry a doctor so I could stay well for nothing. LULU ROMAN: I'd marry a grocer so I could eat for nothing.. SUSAN RAYE: I'd marry a preacher so I could be good for nothing.====REV: When people often say, "Be good!" . . . I often reply, "I get paid to!!"
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: "Horse Sense" is derived from an episode of the Lone Ranger, where Tonto told him he didn't have as much sense as Silver. It seems that he was trying to cross the river on horseback and his boots filled with water, almost drowning horse and rider.====JACK: When I first came to Michigan, I went to a small cafe, and there were only two of us. We began chatting, and I found out that he was Clayton Moore, the actor who played the Lone Ranger. Jay Silverheels was out in the parking lot with the horses.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: My father-in-law took Dale Carnegie's course on "How To Win Friends, and Influence People". He only had an 8th grade education, but did have "horse sense", and continued to learn well into adulthood. He served as President of the School Board, and Rotary, was the big Kehunah in Shriners, and CEO of his Construction business Quite amazing for a simple "farm kid" ! Carnegie influenced a LOT of people! Enthusiasm is a MUST for any successful endeavor! Good quote today! ====JACK: I was reading an article this week about business schools that grant MBAs. One of the best qualities of a successful business(person) is the ability to meet and influence people...as Carnegie taught.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/23/13
“My father used to say, ‘Let them see you and not the suit.’” (Cary Grant) C.G. did not have a happy childhood, but he did remember what his father said about clothes not being so important. Cary was a handsome movie star, but, in the mirror, he was just an ordinary person. I recall hearing my mother say, “Just look at yourself!” That’s pretty good advice for an adult, as well as a messy kid. Look at yourself, today!! ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: Why not see both you and the suit? The option is to go nude.====JACK: We both know that clothes often make the difference. I would usually wear my clergy collar when making hospital calls. No questions asked. Not so much now, but in the past, there were unwritten dress codes in church. Even in Jesus day, the back of the Temple was for those who didn't measure up to appearance standards. Jesus got into trouble with the "religious" officials when he saw the person and not the suit. When Jim Leyland appeared in a suit to announce his retirement, one of the reporters mused, "Whenever you see a baseball manager in a suit, you know that he's either coming or going."
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: "Look at yourself" reminds me of how I have most likely looked at myself in the mirror at least once everyday. Each day, as I look at myself, it seems that I look just like I did the day before. However, when I look at a picture of myself from many days gone by, I wonder how I could have changed so much without noticing the changes! Even when we do look, it is very easy to miss all the subtle changes! I think it can be good for us to consider both our current "clothes" in the context of the clothes we wore long ago.====JACK: The changes in us are more than physical differences. My philosophies and opinions have also changed. Sometimes it's been subtle; at other times, more dramatic. I've often thought that the body is like a suit being worn by the soul. Philosophers have a term for that idea. I think that it's called, Dualism.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: Women have a more delicate path. Both my daughter and I remember how often I advised her not to wear skin tight biker shorts and so forth because "people would get the wrong idea of her". To this day, she is a professional woman and she wears conservative clothing to the office. She also dresses nicely for leisure and at home but must admit lots of women are showing more cleavage than in past decades. Guess with women's dress often people are looking "at them", at their skin and not at their suit. ====JACK: I was reading today about a Western woman, traveling in Morocco, who literally stopped traffic, because she wasn't wearing a veil. She received both glares and leers. Our ancestors would be shocked beyond belief if they suddenly woke up on one of today's beaches.
FROM TARMART REV: Pretty (sometimes not very pretty) advice for us to ponder and be challenged by . . . another good word this morning, Jack. ====JACK: Does your "conservative" church also espouse "conservative" dress for its members. Are there church clothes, compared to Walmart clothes?====REV: Against my up-bringing and comfort level today, our church is about as casual as one will find . . . from our pastor's attire to throughout the pew with coffee in hand by many. The definition of presenting God our excellence is about as far removed as our definition of marriage. My Lutheran brethren are much more conservative in this regard nowadays.====JACK: When my sister was a grade-schooler she went with our aunt to a Catholic church. The aunt pulled out a Kleenex from her purse and put it on my sister's head, because women were not to go to worship without a hat.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: On that theme, I believe the best strategy on having a happy life is "Always be yourself,because the people that count won't mind,& the people that mind don't count"...====JACK: Would you dress differently if your program were on TV instead of on the radio?
FROM RI IN BOSTON: "Look at yourself" is good advice in every sense of the phrase. When I take the time to assess my own self about things, I usually find plenty room for improvement.====JACK: Have you every sung the song, "It's hard to be humble?"
Oh Lord it's hard to be humble
When you're perfect in every way.
I can't wait to look in the mirror
'Cos I get better looking each day
To know me is to love me
I must be a hell of a man.
O Lord it's hard to be humble
But I'm doing the best that I can.
FROM HR IN MICHIGAN: Billy Crystal, as one of his characters ( I think he was playing Ricardo Montalban) on Saturday Night Live years ago, said (with sarcasm), “It is better to look good, than to feel good.”====JACK: I'm sure that you've come in contact with many people who are anxious to feel good. Forget the "looking good" part. BTW, when you were in the dating game, did you ever sing the Hank Williams song, "Hey, good lookin', whatcha got cookin'? How's about cookin' somethin' up with me? ====HR: Tried that line in a bar once, never went back.====JACK: You got the cold shoulder?
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: I did! Man, what a handsome lad. Wonder what I'll look like when I grow up.====JACK: Where did you get that crazy sideshow mirror?
“My father used to say, ‘Let them see you and not the suit.’” (Cary Grant) C.G. did not have a happy childhood, but he did remember what his father said about clothes not being so important. Cary was a handsome movie star, but, in the mirror, he was just an ordinary person. I recall hearing my mother say, “Just look at yourself!” That’s pretty good advice for an adult, as well as a messy kid. Look at yourself, today!! ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: Why not see both you and the suit? The option is to go nude.====JACK: We both know that clothes often make the difference. I would usually wear my clergy collar when making hospital calls. No questions asked. Not so much now, but in the past, there were unwritten dress codes in church. Even in Jesus day, the back of the Temple was for those who didn't measure up to appearance standards. Jesus got into trouble with the "religious" officials when he saw the person and not the suit. When Jim Leyland appeared in a suit to announce his retirement, one of the reporters mused, "Whenever you see a baseball manager in a suit, you know that he's either coming or going."
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: "Look at yourself" reminds me of how I have most likely looked at myself in the mirror at least once everyday. Each day, as I look at myself, it seems that I look just like I did the day before. However, when I look at a picture of myself from many days gone by, I wonder how I could have changed so much without noticing the changes! Even when we do look, it is very easy to miss all the subtle changes! I think it can be good for us to consider both our current "clothes" in the context of the clothes we wore long ago.====JACK: The changes in us are more than physical differences. My philosophies and opinions have also changed. Sometimes it's been subtle; at other times, more dramatic. I've often thought that the body is like a suit being worn by the soul. Philosophers have a term for that idea. I think that it's called, Dualism.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: Women have a more delicate path. Both my daughter and I remember how often I advised her not to wear skin tight biker shorts and so forth because "people would get the wrong idea of her". To this day, she is a professional woman and she wears conservative clothing to the office. She also dresses nicely for leisure and at home but must admit lots of women are showing more cleavage than in past decades. Guess with women's dress often people are looking "at them", at their skin and not at their suit. ====JACK: I was reading today about a Western woman, traveling in Morocco, who literally stopped traffic, because she wasn't wearing a veil. She received both glares and leers. Our ancestors would be shocked beyond belief if they suddenly woke up on one of today's beaches.
FROM TARMART REV: Pretty (sometimes not very pretty) advice for us to ponder and be challenged by . . . another good word this morning, Jack. ====JACK: Does your "conservative" church also espouse "conservative" dress for its members. Are there church clothes, compared to Walmart clothes?====REV: Against my up-bringing and comfort level today, our church is about as casual as one will find . . . from our pastor's attire to throughout the pew with coffee in hand by many. The definition of presenting God our excellence is about as far removed as our definition of marriage. My Lutheran brethren are much more conservative in this regard nowadays.====JACK: When my sister was a grade-schooler she went with our aunt to a Catholic church. The aunt pulled out a Kleenex from her purse and put it on my sister's head, because women were not to go to worship without a hat.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: On that theme, I believe the best strategy on having a happy life is "Always be yourself,because the people that count won't mind,& the people that mind don't count"...====JACK: Would you dress differently if your program were on TV instead of on the radio?
FROM RI IN BOSTON: "Look at yourself" is good advice in every sense of the phrase. When I take the time to assess my own self about things, I usually find plenty room for improvement.====JACK: Have you every sung the song, "It's hard to be humble?"
Oh Lord it's hard to be humble
When you're perfect in every way.
I can't wait to look in the mirror
'Cos I get better looking each day
To know me is to love me
I must be a hell of a man.
O Lord it's hard to be humble
But I'm doing the best that I can.
FROM HR IN MICHIGAN: Billy Crystal, as one of his characters ( I think he was playing Ricardo Montalban) on Saturday Night Live years ago, said (with sarcasm), “It is better to look good, than to feel good.”====JACK: I'm sure that you've come in contact with many people who are anxious to feel good. Forget the "looking good" part. BTW, when you were in the dating game, did you ever sing the Hank Williams song, "Hey, good lookin', whatcha got cookin'? How's about cookin' somethin' up with me? ====HR: Tried that line in a bar once, never went back.====JACK: You got the cold shoulder?
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: I did! Man, what a handsome lad. Wonder what I'll look like when I grow up.====JACK: Where did you get that crazy sideshow mirror?
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/22/13
“Women and cats will do as they please, and men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea.” (Robert Heinlein) A list of things that cause stress includes…life changes, not enough time, taking on too much, and conflicts at home and at work. No mention of women or cats. In fact, someone who cares for you and a gentle pet can be stress reducers. Another way to alleviate stress is to count your blessings. ;-) Jack
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: PERFECT!!====JACK: I take your response to mean...Counting your blessings is a perfect way to deal with stress.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: women are blessings! &, for those who like them, cats are, too.====JACK: Do you consider men and dogs to be a blessing, too?====LIZ: absotively!
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: Distress often results when we desire something to be different than it is. Acceptance (even when we don't condone what we accept) brings about a type of peace in the midst of our long-suffering. The serenity prayer seems to points this out in the phrase "...and the wisdom to know the difference"====JACK: I hadn't noticed before....stress in the word, distress. Distress is commonly thought of as another word for, stress. How come di-stress doesn't mean...taking away stress?
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: And mostly don't rush and do enjoy each day. It has been my experience that older people often fall and that is the start of more serious problems when they are rushing. It is amazing to me how much energy younger people have and how they do rush and also multitask. I guess we did all of that except the multitasking in our younger days.====JACK: We probably did multitasking in our "salad days." We just didn't have a word for it. My mother worked full-time while I was growing up. She also found time to cook, clean house, do grocery shopping, wash and iron, and tend to the needs of her children. While she didn't do it all at once, I don't recall that she had many spare moments to do nothing.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: If you can't get along with a woman, try getting along without one! ====JACK: As in most cases, it depends on the situation. You should jump into marriage "head" first.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: HA! A BIT OF WHIMSEY, AND I LOVE IT. AFRAID IT IS PRETTY TRUE. I MENTIONED TO BILL AFTER WE'D BEEN MARRIED A YEAR, THAT I HADN'T NOTICED IT WAS SO HARD, OR REQUIRED DIFFICULT ADJUSTMENTS, AND HE ALLOWED AS HOW HE'D PROBABLY MADE ALL THE ADJUSTMENTS !!====JACK: It's important for a football lineman to able to make adjustments, depending on what the one on the opposite side is doing. Since Bill was an All-Star football player, making adjustments must have been easy for him.
“Women and cats will do as they please, and men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea.” (Robert Heinlein) A list of things that cause stress includes…life changes, not enough time, taking on too much, and conflicts at home and at work. No mention of women or cats. In fact, someone who cares for you and a gentle pet can be stress reducers. Another way to alleviate stress is to count your blessings. ;-) Jack
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: PERFECT!!====JACK: I take your response to mean...Counting your blessings is a perfect way to deal with stress.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: women are blessings! &, for those who like them, cats are, too.====JACK: Do you consider men and dogs to be a blessing, too?====LIZ: absotively!
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: Distress often results when we desire something to be different than it is. Acceptance (even when we don't condone what we accept) brings about a type of peace in the midst of our long-suffering. The serenity prayer seems to points this out in the phrase "...and the wisdom to know the difference"====JACK: I hadn't noticed before....stress in the word, distress. Distress is commonly thought of as another word for, stress. How come di-stress doesn't mean...taking away stress?
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: And mostly don't rush and do enjoy each day. It has been my experience that older people often fall and that is the start of more serious problems when they are rushing. It is amazing to me how much energy younger people have and how they do rush and also multitask. I guess we did all of that except the multitasking in our younger days.====JACK: We probably did multitasking in our "salad days." We just didn't have a word for it. My mother worked full-time while I was growing up. She also found time to cook, clean house, do grocery shopping, wash and iron, and tend to the needs of her children. While she didn't do it all at once, I don't recall that she had many spare moments to do nothing.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: If you can't get along with a woman, try getting along without one! ====JACK: As in most cases, it depends on the situation. You should jump into marriage "head" first.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: HA! A BIT OF WHIMSEY, AND I LOVE IT. AFRAID IT IS PRETTY TRUE. I MENTIONED TO BILL AFTER WE'D BEEN MARRIED A YEAR, THAT I HADN'T NOTICED IT WAS SO HARD, OR REQUIRED DIFFICULT ADJUSTMENTS, AND HE ALLOWED AS HOW HE'D PROBABLY MADE ALL THE ADJUSTMENTS !!====JACK: It's important for a football lineman to able to make adjustments, depending on what the one on the opposite side is doing. Since Bill was an All-Star football player, making adjustments must have been easy for him.
Monday, October 21, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/21/13
“For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream.” (Vincent van Gogh) One of my favorite jigsaw puzzles is of Vincent’s “Starry Night.” I read that he did this painting while being treated for mental illness. He wrote to his brother: “I have a tremendous need for a religion, so I go outside at night to paint the stars.” What is it that you do in your search for religion? I like to think. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: I like to think of myself continually knocking on God's Door, asking and receiving more of what He has in store for me to receive and understand about Him. Not disappointed yet!! ====JACK: Sitting patiently at Target and Walmart, waiting for God to open a door is one way to "do" religion. It may not be for everybody, but it seems to work for you.
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I would say that I "like" to write; but it seems that I almost "have" to write. Writing helps me to organize all the thoughts that run through my head in so many different directions -- especially when I dream.====JACK: When you've got an itch, you scratch it. When something's "bugging" you...it seems that writing is like scratching.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: I'm with Vincent when it comes to understanding the Creator of this universe...there are so many questions to be answered. It's typical for us to concentrate on our Earth, surrounded by a lot of space. However, that "space" is infinite, and it's sprinkled with other planets...so why? Was it specifically intended to provide a stellar view for us to ponder and dream about, rather than shroud us at night with a simple black backdrop? Life has presented so many instances when I think to myself, "How did something as amazing as this originate?" I have "religion" but it's difficult for me to explain it persuasively to anyone. As Tennyson said, "I hope to see my pilot face to face, when I have crossed the bar," and I expect I'll finally get some answers.====JACK: I like how Handel used his talent to put Isaiah 40:5 to music..."And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all mankind together will see it. For the mouth of the LORD has spoken." We are all artists. It reminds me of a child who was scribbling on a piece of paper. "What are you doing?" his mother asked. "I'm drawing a picture of God." he replied "But no one knows what God looks like." the mother said. "They will when I get done," he answered. Michelangelo was trying to do the same thing. ====RI: Your reference about Michelangelo, revealing the glory of the Lord, reminded me of an issue of The Lutheran some years back, that showed a section of the Sistine Chapel ceiling on its cover that month. The area depicted was of God reaching out finger-to-finger with Adam, infusing life into the man created. The Adam figure painted by Michelangelo is, as commonly known, naked, and it was clearly exasperating to one reader from Minnesota whose letter to the editor was published the following month. "What do you think you're doing, publishing such obscenity...cancel my subscription!"
FROM HS IN ILLINOIS: Jack, we have a beautiful print of "Starry Night" in our bedroom. We share your love of that.====JACK: I like the words of the Psalmist...."When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; What is man, that thou art mindful of him?" (Psalm 8:3,4) In my opinion, Starry Night is a painting that was inspired.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Mostly, I read; which also causes you to think, guess.Van Gogh was so talented, but also so tormented in his personal life. Amazing so much beauty can come out of suffering, which seems to be the case with many of our productive, talented people. My husband and daughter often did difficult jigsaw puzzles, some of which I have preserved and framed. (Starry night would be a real challenge!) Whoever got it down to the"finish" left the last piece for the other to put into place. it was a little family heritage. Sweet!====JACK: I pulled Starry Night out of the stack and intend to tackle it again one of these days. 500 pieces is what I like. I enjoy looking at the finished product.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I read, Bible, what religious people write, I also try to understand plants. Have read a book titled "What Your Plant Knows" and now am taking a correspondence class over the internet from the man who wrote that book. He is a professor at Tel Aviv University. I believe in some way plants and animals and all of creation know God and they have a thing or two to say too....Isn't it interesting that Jesus was crucified on a plant --wooden cross--and our paper that the Bible is written on and parchment and books are on plants but I guess the stream is broken if we all start reading kindle all the time. Just won't be the same, plants mean the most to me.====JACK: I've thought about how vegans won't eat meat or dairy products. I suppose, if we studied hard enough and long enough we'd find that plants have life similar to the cows, pigs, lambs and humans, just on a different plane. I seem to remember that someone wrote a poem (story) about how the wooden cross felt about being chosen for the crucifixion of Jesus.
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: It's daily prayer and Bible reading first thing in the morn. Helped me innumerable times - just when I thought there was no way out, God intervened. What's so strange that many times I'm surprised. What about you?====JACK: While I've done Bible reading and prayer similar to your regimen, I have evening prayers and do selective Bible reading (not front to back). I find inspiration in my daily contacts with people, face to face and on the internet. When I sit back and reflect on these experiences, I see the presence of God. Brother Lawrence wrote "The Practice of the Presence of God," explaining how he came close to God while washing dishes in the kitchen.
FROM WRITER JUDY: I like to make cards (greeting cards, thank you, birthday .. for any/every reason cards) and help others – that’s what I do for my search for religion.====JACK: I think that what you do is a sign of neighborliness, and Jesus encouraged us to show love and concern for our neighbors.====JUDY: I think sending the WW each day is the way you find religion …. It is so meaningful for my husband and me.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: I "search" as I live and breathe......Finding religion, for me, comes through seeing, hearing, feeling, smelling, tasting, reading...cogitating and marvelling...====JACK: It's been a long time since I've heard the expression, As I live and breathe." Do you remember hearing it? It seems as though you are finding "religion" as you do that very thing. Keep it up! Sometimes we make religion too complex...in my opinion.
FROM STARRI KNIGHT: I love this one Jack!! ====JACK: Did you choose your "nickname" because of Van Gogh's painting?
FROM MOLINER JT: I like to Pray.====JACK: Back in the 19th Century James Montgomery wrote: Prayer is the soul’s sincere desire, Unuttered or expressed;
The motion of a hidden fire That trembles in the breast.
You can Google the rest of the poem which has been put to music in many church hymnals.
“For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream.” (Vincent van Gogh) One of my favorite jigsaw puzzles is of Vincent’s “Starry Night.” I read that he did this painting while being treated for mental illness. He wrote to his brother: “I have a tremendous need for a religion, so I go outside at night to paint the stars.” What is it that you do in your search for religion? I like to think. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: I like to think of myself continually knocking on God's Door, asking and receiving more of what He has in store for me to receive and understand about Him. Not disappointed yet!! ====JACK: Sitting patiently at Target and Walmart, waiting for God to open a door is one way to "do" religion. It may not be for everybody, but it seems to work for you.
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I would say that I "like" to write; but it seems that I almost "have" to write. Writing helps me to organize all the thoughts that run through my head in so many different directions -- especially when I dream.====JACK: When you've got an itch, you scratch it. When something's "bugging" you...it seems that writing is like scratching.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: I'm with Vincent when it comes to understanding the Creator of this universe...there are so many questions to be answered. It's typical for us to concentrate on our Earth, surrounded by a lot of space. However, that "space" is infinite, and it's sprinkled with other planets...so why? Was it specifically intended to provide a stellar view for us to ponder and dream about, rather than shroud us at night with a simple black backdrop? Life has presented so many instances when I think to myself, "How did something as amazing as this originate?" I have "religion" but it's difficult for me to explain it persuasively to anyone. As Tennyson said, "I hope to see my pilot face to face, when I have crossed the bar," and I expect I'll finally get some answers.====JACK: I like how Handel used his talent to put Isaiah 40:5 to music..."And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all mankind together will see it. For the mouth of the LORD has spoken." We are all artists. It reminds me of a child who was scribbling on a piece of paper. "What are you doing?" his mother asked. "I'm drawing a picture of God." he replied "But no one knows what God looks like." the mother said. "They will when I get done," he answered. Michelangelo was trying to do the same thing. ====RI: Your reference about Michelangelo, revealing the glory of the Lord, reminded me of an issue of The Lutheran some years back, that showed a section of the Sistine Chapel ceiling on its cover that month. The area depicted was of God reaching out finger-to-finger with Adam, infusing life into the man created. The Adam figure painted by Michelangelo is, as commonly known, naked, and it was clearly exasperating to one reader from Minnesota whose letter to the editor was published the following month. "What do you think you're doing, publishing such obscenity...cancel my subscription!"
FROM HS IN ILLINOIS: Jack, we have a beautiful print of "Starry Night" in our bedroom. We share your love of that.====JACK: I like the words of the Psalmist...."When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; What is man, that thou art mindful of him?" (Psalm 8:3,4) In my opinion, Starry Night is a painting that was inspired.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Mostly, I read; which also causes you to think, guess.Van Gogh was so talented, but also so tormented in his personal life. Amazing so much beauty can come out of suffering, which seems to be the case with many of our productive, talented people. My husband and daughter often did difficult jigsaw puzzles, some of which I have preserved and framed. (Starry night would be a real challenge!) Whoever got it down to the"finish" left the last piece for the other to put into place. it was a little family heritage. Sweet!====JACK: I pulled Starry Night out of the stack and intend to tackle it again one of these days. 500 pieces is what I like. I enjoy looking at the finished product.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I read, Bible, what religious people write, I also try to understand plants. Have read a book titled "What Your Plant Knows" and now am taking a correspondence class over the internet from the man who wrote that book. He is a professor at Tel Aviv University. I believe in some way plants and animals and all of creation know God and they have a thing or two to say too....Isn't it interesting that Jesus was crucified on a plant --wooden cross--and our paper that the Bible is written on and parchment and books are on plants but I guess the stream is broken if we all start reading kindle all the time. Just won't be the same, plants mean the most to me.====JACK: I've thought about how vegans won't eat meat or dairy products. I suppose, if we studied hard enough and long enough we'd find that plants have life similar to the cows, pigs, lambs and humans, just on a different plane. I seem to remember that someone wrote a poem (story) about how the wooden cross felt about being chosen for the crucifixion of Jesus.
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: It's daily prayer and Bible reading first thing in the morn. Helped me innumerable times - just when I thought there was no way out, God intervened. What's so strange that many times I'm surprised. What about you?====JACK: While I've done Bible reading and prayer similar to your regimen, I have evening prayers and do selective Bible reading (not front to back). I find inspiration in my daily contacts with people, face to face and on the internet. When I sit back and reflect on these experiences, I see the presence of God. Brother Lawrence wrote "The Practice of the Presence of God," explaining how he came close to God while washing dishes in the kitchen.
FROM WRITER JUDY: I like to make cards (greeting cards, thank you, birthday .. for any/every reason cards) and help others – that’s what I do for my search for religion.====JACK: I think that what you do is a sign of neighborliness, and Jesus encouraged us to show love and concern for our neighbors.====JUDY: I think sending the WW each day is the way you find religion …. It is so meaningful for my husband and me.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: I "search" as I live and breathe......Finding religion, for me, comes through seeing, hearing, feeling, smelling, tasting, reading...cogitating and marvelling...====JACK: It's been a long time since I've heard the expression, As I live and breathe." Do you remember hearing it? It seems as though you are finding "religion" as you do that very thing. Keep it up! Sometimes we make religion too complex...in my opinion.
FROM STARRI KNIGHT: I love this one Jack!! ====JACK: Did you choose your "nickname" because of Van Gogh's painting?
FROM MOLINER JT: I like to Pray.====JACK: Back in the 19th Century James Montgomery wrote: Prayer is the soul’s sincere desire, Unuttered or expressed;
The motion of a hidden fire That trembles in the breast.
You can Google the rest of the poem which has been put to music in many church hymnals.
Friday, October 18, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/18/13
“I have learned to
use the word impossible with the greatest caution.” (Wernher von Braun) Even bigger than the Human Genome Project is
a proposal to find out how the brain works, to understand why we act as we act
and to discover the source of diseases.
Impossible? I’ve lived long
enough to see impossibilities become possible.
We live in some exciting times.
Everything doesn’t have to be doom and gloom. ;-)
Jack
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: On that theme,Dennis Prager radio host on 1400AM daily from 1PM-3PM many times promotes: "If your life is not horrific, it's terrific."====JACK: I'm having a terrific day...so far.
FROM TARMART REV: You and I have discovered a Book compiled from written parchments and many authors over a period of hundreds of years that gives us insight about that brain of ours and why we think like we do, plus gives us a blessed hope that the best is yet to come for those that follow its direction...hundreds of millions of folk have died believing it...the greatest Book ever written or the unparalleled hoax ever produced!!====JACK: It sounds as though you know the song, "The B-I-B-L-E, that's good enough for me!"
FROM PH IN MINNESOTA: be of good cheer, says Jesus, for i have overcome the world... ====JACK: Maybe you're on to something....a new group within the Church called, "Cheerleaders for God." Here's a cheer for you.....
There's not enough to say,
There's not enough to do.
So we're gonna beat the badness out of you! ...followed by the fight song:
Onward, Christian soldiers!
====PH: so stand up, sit down, fight, fight, fight!====JACK: Stand up...Sit down...It sounds like the Lutheran liturgy. Fight, fight, fight...It sounds like discussing some Church social resolutions.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Old Marine motto, "The difficult, we do today. The impossible takes a little longer."====JACK: Do you know this last verse of The Marine's Hymn?
Here's health to you and to our Corps
Which we are proud to serve;
In many a strife we've fought for life
And never lost our nerve.
If the Army and the Navy
Ever look on Heaven's scenes,
They will find the streets are guarded
By United States Marines.
(sing it now)
====PFC: I once had an Army friend who thought he was superior, " I almost joined the Army and then the thought came to me that I would always wonder if I were good enough for the Marines." Yes, I know that verse, but most vividly the streets of heaven part.====JACK: In Moline, we used to get our milk from Peerless Dairy. The father of the Wisdom girls delivered milk for the Superior Dairy. I told Beverly and Bonnie that our milk was better than theirs. Their dad told them to have me look up the word, superior.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: Large flocks of birds fly together and get where they want to go without bumping or tangling wings...dense schools of fish swim close together in sync without blocking or disrupting others. Humans would find there is so much good that's "possible" in the world if only we would work together. ====JACK: I'm reminded of the song, "The more we get together, the happier we'll be....For your friends are my friends, and my friends are your friends."
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Joni loves the word IMPOSSIBLE! :-) When I read Nick Vujicic's books, and see his videos, the word impossible takes on new meaning: born with no arms or legs, but how he's made his life count, and what he has been able to do, is nothing short of incredible! All Glory ot God!! ====JACK: When I "see" their stories, I wonder how they can do it....which means, I don't know if I could. Life, for each of us, is a daily adaptation.
FROM AJ IN MICHIGAN: Love this, Jack. It is so simple but so true.====JACK: We like it when someone has the knack of making the complex, simple. A baby, born in Bethlehem, became God in human form. The unknowable became knowable.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: ---The last two decades of the 19th Century and well into the 20th Century must have been mind boggling.....electricity, automobiles, airplanes, the Ferris wheel, medicine, engineering and construction advancements........and , of late,the Voyager 1 breaking into outer space after 33 years, the
F22,Hoover Dam Span....technological advancements growing at a dizzying pace...Thinking what the world has the potential to become does generate concern as well as excitement. But it's fun and challenging .....even as I'm among those at the tail end of the marathon., What are God's plans? What comforts me is that the baby born in Bethlehem developed the same way as a baby born today. ====JACK: Winning Words is also posted on an internet local "newspaper" called Patch. Here it's called, West Bloomfield Patch. There's a Tampa Patch, too. Each day I'm asked to title WWs. Today I called it, "Everything doesn't have to be doom and gloom!" Your response shows that you got "the drift." The only patch Moline has is the Dis-patch.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: On that theme,Dennis Prager radio host on 1400AM daily from 1PM-3PM many times promotes: "If your life is not horrific, it's terrific."====JACK: I'm having a terrific day...so far.
FROM TARMART REV: You and I have discovered a Book compiled from written parchments and many authors over a period of hundreds of years that gives us insight about that brain of ours and why we think like we do, plus gives us a blessed hope that the best is yet to come for those that follow its direction...hundreds of millions of folk have died believing it...the greatest Book ever written or the unparalleled hoax ever produced!!====JACK: It sounds as though you know the song, "The B-I-B-L-E, that's good enough for me!"
FROM PH IN MINNESOTA: be of good cheer, says Jesus, for i have overcome the world... ====JACK: Maybe you're on to something....a new group within the Church called, "Cheerleaders for God." Here's a cheer for you.....
There's not enough to say,
There's not enough to do.
So we're gonna beat the badness out of you! ...followed by the fight song:
Onward, Christian soldiers!
====PH: so stand up, sit down, fight, fight, fight!====JACK: Stand up...Sit down...It sounds like the Lutheran liturgy. Fight, fight, fight...It sounds like discussing some Church social resolutions.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Old Marine motto, "The difficult, we do today. The impossible takes a little longer."====JACK: Do you know this last verse of The Marine's Hymn?
Here's health to you and to our Corps
Which we are proud to serve;
In many a strife we've fought for life
And never lost our nerve.
If the Army and the Navy
Ever look on Heaven's scenes,
They will find the streets are guarded
By United States Marines.
(sing it now)
====PFC: I once had an Army friend who thought he was superior, " I almost joined the Army and then the thought came to me that I would always wonder if I were good enough for the Marines." Yes, I know that verse, but most vividly the streets of heaven part.====JACK: In Moline, we used to get our milk from Peerless Dairy. The father of the Wisdom girls delivered milk for the Superior Dairy. I told Beverly and Bonnie that our milk was better than theirs. Their dad told them to have me look up the word, superior.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: Large flocks of birds fly together and get where they want to go without bumping or tangling wings...dense schools of fish swim close together in sync without blocking or disrupting others. Humans would find there is so much good that's "possible" in the world if only we would work together. ====JACK: I'm reminded of the song, "The more we get together, the happier we'll be....For your friends are my friends, and my friends are your friends."
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Joni loves the word IMPOSSIBLE! :-) When I read Nick Vujicic's books, and see his videos, the word impossible takes on new meaning: born with no arms or legs, but how he's made his life count, and what he has been able to do, is nothing short of incredible! All Glory ot God!! ====JACK: When I "see" their stories, I wonder how they can do it....which means, I don't know if I could. Life, for each of us, is a daily adaptation.
FROM AJ IN MICHIGAN: Love this, Jack. It is so simple but so true.====JACK: We like it when someone has the knack of making the complex, simple. A baby, born in Bethlehem, became God in human form. The unknowable became knowable.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: ---The last two decades of the 19th Century and well into the 20th Century must have been mind boggling.....electricity, automobiles, airplanes, the Ferris wheel, medicine, engineering and construction advancements........and , of late,the Voyager 1 breaking into outer space after 33 years, the
F22,Hoover Dam Span....technological advancements growing at a dizzying pace...Thinking what the world has the potential to become does generate concern as well as excitement. But it's fun and challenging .....even as I'm among those at the tail end of the marathon., What are God's plans? What comforts me is that the baby born in Bethlehem developed the same way as a baby born today. ====JACK: Winning Words is also posted on an internet local "newspaper" called Patch. Here it's called, West Bloomfield Patch. There's a Tampa Patch, too. Each day I'm asked to title WWs. Today I called it, "Everything doesn't have to be doom and gloom!" Your response shows that you got "the drift." The only patch Moline has is the Dis-patch.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/17/13
“Prayer does not change God, but changes the one who prays.” (Soren Kierkegarrd) In church last Sunday people were invited to pray for those with special needs. I prayed in silence, while some spoke aloud. Why do people pray? Is it a request for miracles? Is it to get God to change his mind? I’ve come to see prayer as a way to let “a friend” know what’s on my mind and to ask the omnipotent one to work his will that is good. ;-) Jack
FROM RI IN BOSTON: I wonder if prayer isn't the way to show God how deeply we feel about something...just how passionate we are about it. (In my former professional life, clients would frequently challenge me about recommendations I was proposing for their projects. After some serious discussion they would acquiesce, then tell me they just wanted to see how absolutely committed I was to my recommendations.) I agree with Kierkegarrd that prayer brings greater awareness to the person who prays. I don't believe as some people seem to, that we can invoke our wishes about something, because we have such little knowledge about the bigger picture and the purpose of the Almighty.====JACK: Do you think God cares whether the Red Sox or the Tigers go to the World Series, even though some people may be praying fervently that it's their team?====RI: I think God is not concerned with what team goes to the World Series despite the prayers of some people. But come to think about it, the Bible tells us, "Be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, let your requests be made known before God in heaven." Hmmmmm! Perhaps is similar to the child who gets up on Santa's lap each Christmas season, and asks for certain things. Santa listens, but that's no guarantee the child will get what is wanted.====JACK: That's why I think it's best to end prayers with the petition...."Not my will, but thy will be done."...and let it go at that.
FROM TARMART REV: The Scripture found in James always comes to mind when I think of praying for another . . . "The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results" (James 5:16) . . . would be the last to look upon myself as that righteous person, but always feel unrighteous if I don't offer a prayer for someone, especially when asked to do so.====JACK: God is aware of the fallen sparrow, just as he is aware of the needs of the person who has no one to pray on his/her behalf. If you happen to forget to pray for someone, be assured that God does not forget that someone.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: Like.====JACK: I wonder if God, in heaven, has a computer, and if, when he hears your prayer (or mine), types out on his keyboard...LIKE?
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: Totally agree. When I first started praying for people I disagreed with, I soon found out how nice they had become - it was me who had changed in my opinion of them. ====JACK: There are several hard parts connected with the Sermon on the Mount. "Pray for your enemies" is one of them. "Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect" is another.
FROM DOCTOR JUDY: I love your words today Jack!!====JACK: James Montgomery wrote:
Prayer is the soul’s sincere desire,
Unuttered or expressed;
The motion of a hidden fire
That trembles in the breast.
Prayer is the burden of a sigh,
The falling of a tear
The upward glancing of an eye,
When none but God is near.
Prayer is the simplest form of speech
That infant lips can try;
Prayer, the sublimest strains
That reach The Majesty on high.
FROM HCC CHUCK: AMEN to that====JACK: I like it that prayers usually end with, Amen....So be it!
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: And to thank Him for all the blessings He has given us. Thy will be done. ====JACK: When he was younger, my son was asked to give the table prayer. "Rub a dub dub, thanks for the grub!" I didn't correct him.
FROM RUTHIE: I remind myself to pray, not sway:)====JACK: I was taught in seminary that the posture when praying doesn't matter. "If you pray best standing on your head, then do it." If you like to pray and sway, do it!
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I've found that when I talk to God, often something mysterious happens that in the process I know even better what is in my mind. Sometimes I believe He just might be just patiently listening for me to know more accurately and truthfully what is in my mind, just like a therapist or pastor or good friend will do. And I guess when I just don't get something, He intervenes and does stuff in my life so that I listen and talk more in line with how He is molding and growing me as a person in His image. Whatever, it is a very helpful and constructive process, this praying thing is, I've found.====JACK: Prayer is your attempt to tune into God, who is always tuned into you.
FROM r: I think prayer is what maintains our conversation with God at the forefront of our consciousness. Since God created all other "things", it makes sense that all other things are subordinate to that whom created them. In addition, it makes sense to develop the relationship that is superior to all other relationships. Or...seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you. Prayer, or our conversation with God, keeps our eyes focused on that which we are seeking.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: On this theme I'm reminded of the quotation: "If God does not seem as close to you as he did at one time,guess who moved?" mmm====JACK: That's a very moving response!
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Kierkegaard wrote a lot of good things!! I liked what RI in Boston said, regarding our asking or petitioning God but not knowing the bigger picture, so leaving the answer with the Almighty. Why some heartfelt prayers seem to go unanswered will have to wait until WE see the bigger picture on the other side! We are changed through prayer, for sure!====JACK: I taught that all prayers are answered, similar to the ways in which parents answer the requests of their children..."Yes" or "No" or "Just be patient, and we'll see."
“Prayer does not change God, but changes the one who prays.” (Soren Kierkegarrd) In church last Sunday people were invited to pray for those with special needs. I prayed in silence, while some spoke aloud. Why do people pray? Is it a request for miracles? Is it to get God to change his mind? I’ve come to see prayer as a way to let “a friend” know what’s on my mind and to ask the omnipotent one to work his will that is good. ;-) Jack
FROM RI IN BOSTON: I wonder if prayer isn't the way to show God how deeply we feel about something...just how passionate we are about it. (In my former professional life, clients would frequently challenge me about recommendations I was proposing for their projects. After some serious discussion they would acquiesce, then tell me they just wanted to see how absolutely committed I was to my recommendations.) I agree with Kierkegarrd that prayer brings greater awareness to the person who prays. I don't believe as some people seem to, that we can invoke our wishes about something, because we have such little knowledge about the bigger picture and the purpose of the Almighty.====JACK: Do you think God cares whether the Red Sox or the Tigers go to the World Series, even though some people may be praying fervently that it's their team?====RI: I think God is not concerned with what team goes to the World Series despite the prayers of some people. But come to think about it, the Bible tells us, "Be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, let your requests be made known before God in heaven." Hmmmmm! Perhaps is similar to the child who gets up on Santa's lap each Christmas season, and asks for certain things. Santa listens, but that's no guarantee the child will get what is wanted.====JACK: That's why I think it's best to end prayers with the petition...."Not my will, but thy will be done."...and let it go at that.
FROM TARMART REV: The Scripture found in James always comes to mind when I think of praying for another . . . "The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results" (James 5:16) . . . would be the last to look upon myself as that righteous person, but always feel unrighteous if I don't offer a prayer for someone, especially when asked to do so.====JACK: God is aware of the fallen sparrow, just as he is aware of the needs of the person who has no one to pray on his/her behalf. If you happen to forget to pray for someone, be assured that God does not forget that someone.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: Like.====JACK: I wonder if God, in heaven, has a computer, and if, when he hears your prayer (or mine), types out on his keyboard...LIKE?
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: Totally agree. When I first started praying for people I disagreed with, I soon found out how nice they had become - it was me who had changed in my opinion of them. ====JACK: There are several hard parts connected with the Sermon on the Mount. "Pray for your enemies" is one of them. "Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect" is another.
FROM DOCTOR JUDY: I love your words today Jack!!====JACK: James Montgomery wrote:
Prayer is the soul’s sincere desire,
Unuttered or expressed;
The motion of a hidden fire
That trembles in the breast.
Prayer is the burden of a sigh,
The falling of a tear
The upward glancing of an eye,
When none but God is near.
Prayer is the simplest form of speech
That infant lips can try;
Prayer, the sublimest strains
That reach The Majesty on high.
FROM HCC CHUCK: AMEN to that====JACK: I like it that prayers usually end with, Amen....So be it!
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: And to thank Him for all the blessings He has given us. Thy will be done. ====JACK: When he was younger, my son was asked to give the table prayer. "Rub a dub dub, thanks for the grub!" I didn't correct him.
FROM RUTHIE: I remind myself to pray, not sway:)====JACK: I was taught in seminary that the posture when praying doesn't matter. "If you pray best standing on your head, then do it." If you like to pray and sway, do it!
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I've found that when I talk to God, often something mysterious happens that in the process I know even better what is in my mind. Sometimes I believe He just might be just patiently listening for me to know more accurately and truthfully what is in my mind, just like a therapist or pastor or good friend will do. And I guess when I just don't get something, He intervenes and does stuff in my life so that I listen and talk more in line with how He is molding and growing me as a person in His image. Whatever, it is a very helpful and constructive process, this praying thing is, I've found.====JACK: Prayer is your attempt to tune into God, who is always tuned into you.
FROM r: I think prayer is what maintains our conversation with God at the forefront of our consciousness. Since God created all other "things", it makes sense that all other things are subordinate to that whom created them. In addition, it makes sense to develop the relationship that is superior to all other relationships. Or...seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you. Prayer, or our conversation with God, keeps our eyes focused on that which we are seeking.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: On this theme I'm reminded of the quotation: "If God does not seem as close to you as he did at one time,guess who moved?" mmm====JACK: That's a very moving response!
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Kierkegaard wrote a lot of good things!! I liked what RI in Boston said, regarding our asking or petitioning God but not knowing the bigger picture, so leaving the answer with the Almighty. Why some heartfelt prayers seem to go unanswered will have to wait until WE see the bigger picture on the other side! We are changed through prayer, for sure!====JACK: I taught that all prayers are answered, similar to the ways in which parents answer the requests of their children..."Yes" or "No" or "Just be patient, and we'll see."
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/16/13
“Uncertainty is a sign of humility, and humility is the willingness to learn.” (Charlie Sheen) There was an old-time radio program called, “The Answer Man.” Listeners would submit questions, and the program staff would try to respond. “Do birds dream?” “What’s Hitler’s phone number?” “How high are sky-writing letters?” It’s good to be a learner, but be careful around someone who has all of the answers. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: A good friend of mine answered similarly to a question given him by a person who wanted know if he had gone and heard this particular preacher who had the "gift" of calling folk out of the congregation and revealing something about them in need if prayer (a sickness, etc.). His response was "No" he had not for he didn't want everyone else knowing about his personal business.====JACK: I think that pastors need to be very careful about invading a person's "private" space. The worship place does not belong exclusively to the guy up in front.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: "It's good to be a learner, but be careful around someone who has all the answers." My favorite WW this morning are your WW though do also appreciate Charlie Sheen's WW too.
====JACK: I wonder if Charlies was quoted accurately, and, if so, what was the context. It seems out of character for him.
FROM HONEST JOHN: I think the biblical definition of "humility" is "the willingness to be human (not God)".====JACK: I suppose who can make the case that humility means, not godly. The root of the word traces to humus (earth). Since biblical literature traces man's beginning to God creating man from the earth, humanity (humility), what you write makes sense.
FROM HAPPY TRAILS IN NOVA SCOTIA: dunno what Hitler’s telephone # was, but I heard the Papal telephone # is Et cum Spirit 220.====JACK: Did you ever make a prank call? Over the years, I've made a few...One was particularly funny.====NOVA SCOTIA: once, in college, and it didn’t feel good...think I accidentally got somebody who was grieving...like to hear about your funny experience.
OTOH, I still regularly try to start ridiculous false rumours.====JACK: Through the years, I've learned to be careful about making jokes at someone else's expense. Experience can sometimes be a hard teacher.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: charlie sheen... winning! words...====JACK: I chose this one, because I particularly like irony.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Nice, never thought I'd see Charlie Sheen and humility in a lesson. There is probably more to Mr. Sheen than we see in the media…====JACK: Who is Charlie Sheen....really? Who are any of us...really?====JON: True enough
FROM RI IN BOSTON: Sorry about the personal cynicism regarding today's WW, but I can't put much stock in Charlie Sheen's words. If "humility is the willingness to learn" it's pretty clear why Charlie hasn't learned much from his carrying-on publicly. I'll give him the benefit of the doubt...that he's still in the learning process.====JACK: What's more important, the message or the messenger?====RI: The message may well be more important, if borne by a dissociated messenger. However, if the message propounded comes from this messenger, I think it may be disingenuous.====JACK: I had thought of posting the message without the name of an author. Would that have made a difference?
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Hey, Mr. Answer Man. What's Mike Huckabee's home address? =-===JACK: Who's Mike Huckleberry? A descendant of Huck Finn ?
FROM BLAZING OAKS: You are right...this does not sound like Charlie Sheen, tho many exude confidence, even arrogance, and are quaking inside, if we only knew...Most of us are humbly aware that we don't have all the answers, and even when we seem confident, we are second-guessing ourselves at least part of the time! "Progress in every age results only from the fact that there are some men and women who refuse to believe that what they know to be right cannot be done". Good thought from Russell W. Davenport, editor. Some one had to lead, even if humbly, & a bit uncertain!====JACK: I recall a story about a preacher who left his sermon notes on the pulpit. The custodian happened to glance at them and saw written in the margin..."Argument weak here. Be sure to pound the pulpit."
“Uncertainty is a sign of humility, and humility is the willingness to learn.” (Charlie Sheen) There was an old-time radio program called, “The Answer Man.” Listeners would submit questions, and the program staff would try to respond. “Do birds dream?” “What’s Hitler’s phone number?” “How high are sky-writing letters?” It’s good to be a learner, but be careful around someone who has all of the answers. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: A good friend of mine answered similarly to a question given him by a person who wanted know if he had gone and heard this particular preacher who had the "gift" of calling folk out of the congregation and revealing something about them in need if prayer (a sickness, etc.). His response was "No" he had not for he didn't want everyone else knowing about his personal business.====JACK: I think that pastors need to be very careful about invading a person's "private" space. The worship place does not belong exclusively to the guy up in front.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: "It's good to be a learner, but be careful around someone who has all the answers." My favorite WW this morning are your WW though do also appreciate Charlie Sheen's WW too.
====JACK: I wonder if Charlies was quoted accurately, and, if so, what was the context. It seems out of character for him.
FROM HONEST JOHN: I think the biblical definition of "humility" is "the willingness to be human (not God)".====JACK: I suppose who can make the case that humility means, not godly. The root of the word traces to humus (earth). Since biblical literature traces man's beginning to God creating man from the earth, humanity (humility), what you write makes sense.
FROM HAPPY TRAILS IN NOVA SCOTIA: dunno what Hitler’s telephone # was, but I heard the Papal telephone # is Et cum Spirit 220.====JACK: Did you ever make a prank call? Over the years, I've made a few...One was particularly funny.====NOVA SCOTIA: once, in college, and it didn’t feel good...think I accidentally got somebody who was grieving...like to hear about your funny experience.
OTOH, I still regularly try to start ridiculous false rumours.====JACK: Through the years, I've learned to be careful about making jokes at someone else's expense. Experience can sometimes be a hard teacher.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: charlie sheen... winning! words...====JACK: I chose this one, because I particularly like irony.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Nice, never thought I'd see Charlie Sheen and humility in a lesson. There is probably more to Mr. Sheen than we see in the media…====JACK: Who is Charlie Sheen....really? Who are any of us...really?====JON: True enough
FROM RI IN BOSTON: Sorry about the personal cynicism regarding today's WW, but I can't put much stock in Charlie Sheen's words. If "humility is the willingness to learn" it's pretty clear why Charlie hasn't learned much from his carrying-on publicly. I'll give him the benefit of the doubt...that he's still in the learning process.====JACK: What's more important, the message or the messenger?====RI: The message may well be more important, if borne by a dissociated messenger. However, if the message propounded comes from this messenger, I think it may be disingenuous.====JACK: I had thought of posting the message without the name of an author. Would that have made a difference?
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Hey, Mr. Answer Man. What's Mike Huckabee's home address? =-===JACK: Who's Mike Huckleberry? A descendant of Huck Finn ?
FROM BLAZING OAKS: You are right...this does not sound like Charlie Sheen, tho many exude confidence, even arrogance, and are quaking inside, if we only knew...Most of us are humbly aware that we don't have all the answers, and even when we seem confident, we are second-guessing ourselves at least part of the time! "Progress in every age results only from the fact that there are some men and women who refuse to believe that what they know to be right cannot be done". Good thought from Russell W. Davenport, editor. Some one had to lead, even if humbly, & a bit uncertain!====JACK: I recall a story about a preacher who left his sermon notes on the pulpit. The custodian happened to glance at them and saw written in the margin..."Argument weak here. Be sure to pound the pulpit."
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/15/13
“Don’t let good enough be good enough. God wants us to keep growing.” (Joel Osteen) Osteen is a popular Houston preacher with a wide TV audience. He has a way with words which seems to connect with people. Off camera, Osteen says, “I try to get out of my preacher’s suit.” Each of us is really just an ordinary person, but with God’s help, we can be an influence for good in ways beyond our understanding.. ;-) Jack
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: We just had an elderly husband of a woman in our congregation die. For years and years and years he had faithfully driven her back and forth to church but he himself never came in. But a little bit before he died, she shared with some of us at the coffee hour that every Sunday morning, early, they both sat on the couch and watched Joel Osteen's service together. I think she will always be so comforted by her memories and we are too.====JACK: All believers are not necessarily found within the walls of a church. I'm inspired by some "hidden" stories.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: ANN LANDERS OR DEAR ABBY HAD A COLUMN YEARS AGO ABOUT NOT SETTLING FOR "GOOD ENOUGH" WHICH I HAVE SOMEWHERE! I'M OFF TO AB WOMEN'S FALL RALLY, SO NO TIME TO LOOK IT UP, BUT I THINK LIFE-LONG LEARNING IS A CREDIBLE GOAL FOR ALL OF US WHO WANT TO KEEP ON GROWING. WE LIVE IN A VAST, WONDERFUL WORLD OF WHICH WE KNOW PRACTICALLY ZERO PERCENT EVEN WITH OUR STRIVING TO BE EDUCATED AND INFLUENTIAL !! ====JACK: Your attendance at the AB Fall Rally is an indication that you haven't given up on growing...exploring what's new in the world.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: lal & lol. told ya joel is an ok guy!====JACK: I'd like to see 60 Minutes do a profile on Osteen when he's not in his preacher's suit.====LIZ: he was on jimmy fallon a couple of weeks ago...====JACK: There are many ways to preach the Gospel. I'm sure that Joel had left his preacher's suit at home.
FROM TARMART REV: "Whoa there, Jack!!" Joel Osteen??====JACK: I wonder how you or I would do, preaching to a packed crowd in a sports' arena with the TV cameras focused in on our every word and every movement. Of course you're used to that kind of experience when you give the prayers at Willmar's stock car races.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: When we were in Houston a few weeks ago we drove by Joel Osteen's facility, a former Basketball Arena I believe. It's right on one of the interstate freeways in Houston. Very impressive, I watched his sermon Sunday night on cable. I enjoy his friendly way of using concise slogans and mixing in scripture.====JACK: He has a way of being religious, without being religious.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: This goes right back to what I said about the shameful Iowa/Western Michigan game. Twenty-one to three was good enough. What point in running the score to fifty-nine? Sometimes good enough IS good enough! I'm an Iowan and I'm embarrassed.====JACK: College football has become a business. The score (not the intangibles) has become the bottom line. See how GREAT we are!
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: Accessibility to thought provoking "spreaching" i.e. WW and Joel Osteen is a God send. You're right! "All believers are not necessarily within the walls of a church." Many are seated in front of the TV at 9:00 a.m. Sunday morning as well as at some point in time in front of the computer M-F. Saturday, YOYO. I know!====JACK: I know a man who goes to church, and he also has a low table at home with a cushion in front of it. He spends some time each day, kneeling at the table and meditating. Is it possible that the Spirit is present in both places...equally, or more in one than the other?====SBP: The Spirit is omnipresent...to my way of believing.
“Don’t let good enough be good enough. God wants us to keep growing.” (Joel Osteen) Osteen is a popular Houston preacher with a wide TV audience. He has a way with words which seems to connect with people. Off camera, Osteen says, “I try to get out of my preacher’s suit.” Each of us is really just an ordinary person, but with God’s help, we can be an influence for good in ways beyond our understanding.. ;-) Jack
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: We just had an elderly husband of a woman in our congregation die. For years and years and years he had faithfully driven her back and forth to church but he himself never came in. But a little bit before he died, she shared with some of us at the coffee hour that every Sunday morning, early, they both sat on the couch and watched Joel Osteen's service together. I think she will always be so comforted by her memories and we are too.====JACK: All believers are not necessarily found within the walls of a church. I'm inspired by some "hidden" stories.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: ANN LANDERS OR DEAR ABBY HAD A COLUMN YEARS AGO ABOUT NOT SETTLING FOR "GOOD ENOUGH" WHICH I HAVE SOMEWHERE! I'M OFF TO AB WOMEN'S FALL RALLY, SO NO TIME TO LOOK IT UP, BUT I THINK LIFE-LONG LEARNING IS A CREDIBLE GOAL FOR ALL OF US WHO WANT TO KEEP ON GROWING. WE LIVE IN A VAST, WONDERFUL WORLD OF WHICH WE KNOW PRACTICALLY ZERO PERCENT EVEN WITH OUR STRIVING TO BE EDUCATED AND INFLUENTIAL !! ====JACK: Your attendance at the AB Fall Rally is an indication that you haven't given up on growing...exploring what's new in the world.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: lal & lol. told ya joel is an ok guy!====JACK: I'd like to see 60 Minutes do a profile on Osteen when he's not in his preacher's suit.====LIZ: he was on jimmy fallon a couple of weeks ago...====JACK: There are many ways to preach the Gospel. I'm sure that Joel had left his preacher's suit at home.
FROM TARMART REV: "Whoa there, Jack!!" Joel Osteen??====JACK: I wonder how you or I would do, preaching to a packed crowd in a sports' arena with the TV cameras focused in on our every word and every movement. Of course you're used to that kind of experience when you give the prayers at Willmar's stock car races.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: When we were in Houston a few weeks ago we drove by Joel Osteen's facility, a former Basketball Arena I believe. It's right on one of the interstate freeways in Houston. Very impressive, I watched his sermon Sunday night on cable. I enjoy his friendly way of using concise slogans and mixing in scripture.====JACK: He has a way of being religious, without being religious.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: This goes right back to what I said about the shameful Iowa/Western Michigan game. Twenty-one to three was good enough. What point in running the score to fifty-nine? Sometimes good enough IS good enough! I'm an Iowan and I'm embarrassed.====JACK: College football has become a business. The score (not the intangibles) has become the bottom line. See how GREAT we are!
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: Accessibility to thought provoking "spreaching" i.e. WW and Joel Osteen is a God send. You're right! "All believers are not necessarily within the walls of a church." Many are seated in front of the TV at 9:00 a.m. Sunday morning as well as at some point in time in front of the computer M-F. Saturday, YOYO. I know!====JACK: I know a man who goes to church, and he also has a low table at home with a cushion in front of it. He spends some time each day, kneeling at the table and meditating. Is it possible that the Spirit is present in both places...equally, or more in one than the other?====SBP: The Spirit is omnipresent...to my way of believing.
Monday, October 14, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/14/13
“Wake up with a smile!” (Kimberly Ogba) K.moved from Nigeria in 1987 and lives in Queens. She says, “I’m a survivor!” and began her own “Conscience Tee” business, creating message t-shirts for the neighborhood. “Pull Your Pants Up!” and “Follow Your Dream!” are two of them. A day seems to go right when you “Wake Up With A Smile!” I remember a song, “Get up with a grin; there’s a new day a-tumblin’ in.” ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: I'll buy that! 0;-)====JACK: A smile is not for sale, either at Target or Wal Mart. You can simply get one "for free" at the coffee shop
FROM DOCTOR PAUL THE TIGER FAN: I know a bunch of guys with Tigers on their uniforms that did not wake up with a smile!====JACK: I went to bed at 11:30 when the Tigers were ahead. I woke up with a smile, which lasted until I saw the newspaper headline.====PAUL: I saw it and still can't believe it! So now, I have questions about what I can't and can see!====JACK: Control what you can control. Que sera, sera.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Sounds like a clever person; PULL YOUR PANTS UP would sell in my part of the world! Just saw a pretty tee with cross stitch saying framed on it LORD KEEP YOUR ARM AROUND MY SHOULDER, AND YOU HAND OVER MY MOUTH". :-) Our youth have Tees with EXERCISE YOUR FAITH...WALK WITH JESUS, with footprints underneath. They are attractive, I think.====JACK: The thing that impresses me about this lady is that she's found a clever way to make a living while also bringing smiles to the faces of people. The world needs more like her.
“Wake up with a smile!” (Kimberly Ogba) K.moved from Nigeria in 1987 and lives in Queens. She says, “I’m a survivor!” and began her own “Conscience Tee” business, creating message t-shirts for the neighborhood. “Pull Your Pants Up!” and “Follow Your Dream!” are two of them. A day seems to go right when you “Wake Up With A Smile!” I remember a song, “Get up with a grin; there’s a new day a-tumblin’ in.” ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: I'll buy that! 0;-)====JACK: A smile is not for sale, either at Target or Wal Mart. You can simply get one "for free" at the coffee shop
FROM DOCTOR PAUL THE TIGER FAN: I know a bunch of guys with Tigers on their uniforms that did not wake up with a smile!====JACK: I went to bed at 11:30 when the Tigers were ahead. I woke up with a smile, which lasted until I saw the newspaper headline.====PAUL: I saw it and still can't believe it! So now, I have questions about what I can't and can see!====JACK: Control what you can control. Que sera, sera.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Sounds like a clever person; PULL YOUR PANTS UP would sell in my part of the world! Just saw a pretty tee with cross stitch saying framed on it LORD KEEP YOUR ARM AROUND MY SHOULDER, AND YOU HAND OVER MY MOUTH". :-) Our youth have Tees with EXERCISE YOUR FAITH...WALK WITH JESUS, with footprints underneath. They are attractive, I think.====JACK: The thing that impresses me about this lady is that she's found a clever way to make a living while also bringing smiles to the faces of people. The world needs more like her.
Friday, October 11, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/11/13
“’Tis not enough to help the feeble up, But to support him after.” (Shakespeare) If you know anything about sports, you know the importance of the follow-thru…throwing, hitting, running. You have to complete the action to be successful. Shakespeare wrote about it…the importance of the follow-thru. It’s a major point in the Parable of the Good Samaritan. We may give help to the needy today, but what about tomorrow? ;-) Jack
FROM DOCTOR PAUL IN MICHIGAN: Some of us have to do a statistical analysis of "need" before even considering helping -let alone follow through.====JACK: One way to avoid doing something is the familiar analysis paralysis. Study it long enough, and it might go away. The problem of doing something about the mentally disturbed is one example of this.====PAUL: Exactly!!!
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: Now, how does that go... teach a man to fish?====JACK: That's why I think that programs like the Peace Corps and the AmeriCorps are such good ideas. Many young people learned construction skills in the 1930s through a program called, the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps). While there are some people who want handouts, I think that most of those in "need" situations want a handup .====LIZ: agreed!====JACK: ^5
FROM TARMART REV: "fight the fight and complete the course" . . .====JACK: Or, as Yogi Berra would say, "It ain't over til it's over."
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Always run five yards past the Finish Line."====JACK: How about those "hot dogs" I see on TV who run past the goal line, but spike the ball before the line? Jesus talked people who make a show of "giving alms," but only do it to be seen. "Look at me!" There's no "I" in team. ====PFC: Bill Bean, our track coach, meant that you don't slow down until you've crossed the finish line. It's an attitude to make sure you have done your best. Nothing showboating about it. Spiking the ball is childish... especially in the Pros.
FROM AW IN ILLINOIS: Jack, unfortunately, I have met a few who have been helped up and they expect you to support them until they die or fade away. Makes me a bit cynical.====JACK: Al came up to Jesus and said, "How many times should I help those who won't help themselves? Seven times?" Jesus said to Al, "I tell you, seventy times seven." Having said that, I understand your frustration.
“’Tis not enough to help the feeble up, But to support him after.” (Shakespeare) If you know anything about sports, you know the importance of the follow-thru…throwing, hitting, running. You have to complete the action to be successful. Shakespeare wrote about it…the importance of the follow-thru. It’s a major point in the Parable of the Good Samaritan. We may give help to the needy today, but what about tomorrow? ;-) Jack
FROM DOCTOR PAUL IN MICHIGAN: Some of us have to do a statistical analysis of "need" before even considering helping -let alone follow through.====JACK: One way to avoid doing something is the familiar analysis paralysis. Study it long enough, and it might go away. The problem of doing something about the mentally disturbed is one example of this.====PAUL: Exactly!!!
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: Now, how does that go... teach a man to fish?====JACK: That's why I think that programs like the Peace Corps and the AmeriCorps are such good ideas. Many young people learned construction skills in the 1930s through a program called, the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps). While there are some people who want handouts, I think that most of those in "need" situations want a handup .====LIZ: agreed!====JACK: ^5
FROM TARMART REV: "fight the fight and complete the course" . . .====JACK: Or, as Yogi Berra would say, "It ain't over til it's over."
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Always run five yards past the Finish Line."====JACK: How about those "hot dogs" I see on TV who run past the goal line, but spike the ball before the line? Jesus talked people who make a show of "giving alms," but only do it to be seen. "Look at me!" There's no "I" in team. ====PFC: Bill Bean, our track coach, meant that you don't slow down until you've crossed the finish line. It's an attitude to make sure you have done your best. Nothing showboating about it. Spiking the ball is childish... especially in the Pros.
FROM AW IN ILLINOIS: Jack, unfortunately, I have met a few who have been helped up and they expect you to support them until they die or fade away. Makes me a bit cynical.====JACK: Al came up to Jesus and said, "How many times should I help those who won't help themselves? Seven times?" Jesus said to Al, "I tell you, seventy times seven." Having said that, I understand your frustration.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/10/13
“Change the way you look at things, and the things you look at change.” (Wayne Dyer) After college a young friend of mine went to work on an Indian reservation. She came away from that job with a whole new outlook on the problems of the American Indians. Perhaps, if we, too, were able to walk in the “moccasins” of others, we’d be more willing to adjust our thinking. Empathy is different from sympathy. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: My understanding of the American Indian changed as well when I had a young couple (wife was from an Indian tribe in Arizona). They had met in the armed services.. It was actually the Mormons who reflected the most caring influence on the young lady's life. Hearing her story and the fact that she left the reservation to join the Army to improve her way of life put within me a deeper respect for the American Indian as a whole.====JACK: If more of our Congressmen had "face to face" contact with people other than their major financial backers, their actions might be more empathetic.====REV: Thought the same...paid to find winning solutions but not to openly bicker about whose at fault for not finding the answers they seek. 0:-/
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: Great WW. Last Saturday at a Synod hunger workshop, I heard a young man who worked in the Head Start Program speak about how he does his work with the parents and children. He "thinks about our mission in the community we're seeking to serve...how am I carrying my prejudice, my values, my likes and how can I get over this...adjust our actions to meet this population base where they're at...It's not about "saving" them, it's reframing and letting something come about which is sustainable." I believe this young man who works in the Head Start Program is living out your WW today in a really deeply genuine and caring way. Thanks again, I'll try to live them out too in some way, some how. ====JACK: We each have to light our own candle in that corner of the world where we find ourselves.
FROM TL IN TEXAS: Jack, one of my greatest blessings are your daily words of wisdom. You provide daily sustenance and inspiration! Thank you!====JACK: Inspiration is mysterious. It means that the Spirit is in us. Why? How? If the daily Winning Words inspires people to change for the better, it shows that the Spirit's work continues.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Walk a mile in my shoes and you'll end up with sore feet! ====JACK: I had a friend who was a diabetic. He sometimes complained about his sore feet. "It's like I'm walking on needles." I could sympathize, but not empathize.
FROM OPTIMISTIC ART: I really like this one. Thanks for sharing.====JACK: Winning Words is often a snapshot of my thinking. I'm glad that you and I are on the same page with this one.
“Change the way you look at things, and the things you look at change.” (Wayne Dyer) After college a young friend of mine went to work on an Indian reservation. She came away from that job with a whole new outlook on the problems of the American Indians. Perhaps, if we, too, were able to walk in the “moccasins” of others, we’d be more willing to adjust our thinking. Empathy is different from sympathy. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: My understanding of the American Indian changed as well when I had a young couple (wife was from an Indian tribe in Arizona). They had met in the armed services.. It was actually the Mormons who reflected the most caring influence on the young lady's life. Hearing her story and the fact that she left the reservation to join the Army to improve her way of life put within me a deeper respect for the American Indian as a whole.====JACK: If more of our Congressmen had "face to face" contact with people other than their major financial backers, their actions might be more empathetic.====REV: Thought the same...paid to find winning solutions but not to openly bicker about whose at fault for not finding the answers they seek. 0:-/
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: Great WW. Last Saturday at a Synod hunger workshop, I heard a young man who worked in the Head Start Program speak about how he does his work with the parents and children. He "thinks about our mission in the community we're seeking to serve...how am I carrying my prejudice, my values, my likes and how can I get over this...adjust our actions to meet this population base where they're at...It's not about "saving" them, it's reframing and letting something come about which is sustainable." I believe this young man who works in the Head Start Program is living out your WW today in a really deeply genuine and caring way. Thanks again, I'll try to live them out too in some way, some how. ====JACK: We each have to light our own candle in that corner of the world where we find ourselves.
FROM TL IN TEXAS: Jack, one of my greatest blessings are your daily words of wisdom. You provide daily sustenance and inspiration! Thank you!====JACK: Inspiration is mysterious. It means that the Spirit is in us. Why? How? If the daily Winning Words inspires people to change for the better, it shows that the Spirit's work continues.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Walk a mile in my shoes and you'll end up with sore feet! ====JACK: I had a friend who was a diabetic. He sometimes complained about his sore feet. "It's like I'm walking on needles." I could sympathize, but not empathize.
FROM OPTIMISTIC ART: I really like this one. Thanks for sharing.====JACK: Winning Words is often a snapshot of my thinking. I'm glad that you and I are on the same page with this one.
Wednesday, October 09, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/9/13
“People who are never completely unforgotten never completely die.” (Ashleigh Brilliant) A.B. is famous for his one-liners, “Pot Shots.” I’m a fan of B. and have 5 of his “Pot Shots” books. Today’s quote is from one. I realize the different theological opinions concerning eternal life, but think of some of the people you know, who have died, and still remain alive in your mind. Is that a sort of “life after death?” ;-) Jack
FROM PH IN MINNESOTA: yes, we want our loved ones to live on for a long time in our memories. ====JACK: In the makeup of humans, memory plays an important part. Is the recollection of the dead an essential, or is it one of life's luxuries?====PH: don't we tend to forget the bad ones and remember the good ones? isn't that why we have "the good old days"?? this is a gift from our sometimes faulty memories....====JACK: You can order "The Good Old Days" magazine for $17.95 a year. There should be a place in your pension for that amount.
FROM TARMART REV: Have a few myself...remembrance of the experience in knowing them is still very much current in my memory today...it's those I've forgotten "and what was that he said I liked so well" that still disappoints me when I try to recall. Remembering to write it down and storing it in a systematic fashion has paid off over the years for me.====JACK: "Who do you remember?" might be an interesting conversation starter as you talk with people at Target and WalMart today.====REV: "The Living Dead!" ... seems like a timely and popular topic of late ... when is Halloween?! On a serious note . . . many fond memories of those earlier years of church events as youth rallies, summer camps, and Bible college . . . and with these came pastors, evangelists and teachers who invested in my life, but who have also now gone on beyond this life on earth . . . so appreciative of the many relationships I've encountered along my earthly journey . . . and just as special was ours through the WB experiences. ====JACK: Zombies? I haven't thought of that? And, as Bob Hope used to sing, "Thanks for the memories..."
FROM HONEST JOHN: That's a memory after the death of another person. Who is now not living. ====JACK: Your Swedish "matter-of-fact-ness" is showing..====JOHN: To a Norwegian is to be dead before one dies...how about that for my "Swedishness?"====JACK: What "ism" is this, philosophically? ====JOHN: Triumphalism====JACK: I see it as realism.
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: Yes indeed! Our memory is a wonderful gift.....when we remember fondly! ====JACK: I wonder...Will there be memory in "heaven?" If so, just the good ones?====RAY: Maybe....I have often thought about the phrase, "...your sins will be remembered no more". They have been blotted out and forgotten. Maybe we'll learn or experience this ourselves!====JACK: I guess "No More Tears" is more than the name of a shampoo.
FROM EMT SINGS IN TRAVERSE CITY: I am also a fan of A.B. and have a couple of his books. I am now in T.C. and getting your WW is a touch of the familiar in our new life! Thanks!====JACK: Some Jewish surnames have to do with precious things. Brilliant is along this line, as are...Gold, Silver, Pearl, Ruby, etc. Can you think of others?
FROM MY LAWYER: At every synagogue at sabbath services and periodically at memorial services year-round, the name of every person who died on the weekly anniversary of that particular service is published in the service brochure and, in Temple Israel's case, the name of every person who has a family member in attendance at that service is read aloud. I like your rettorical question: "Is that sort of life after death?" Yes, I think it is. While I think of my parents almost daily, at the anniversaries of their deaths, if I'm in Temple, others in attendance will hear their names mentioned and, hopefully, rekindle nice memories. Similarly, when I hear the necrology list, I recall, mostly pleasurably, nice things about the people mentioned that I knew.====JACK: Isn't it interesting...the things that trigger memories...words, events, resemblances, aromas? Memory is such a great gift. I remember when you brought your father to an Optimist Club meeting. And now, you're bringing your grandson.
“People who are never completely unforgotten never completely die.” (Ashleigh Brilliant) A.B. is famous for his one-liners, “Pot Shots.” I’m a fan of B. and have 5 of his “Pot Shots” books. Today’s quote is from one. I realize the different theological opinions concerning eternal life, but think of some of the people you know, who have died, and still remain alive in your mind. Is that a sort of “life after death?” ;-) Jack
FROM PH IN MINNESOTA: yes, we want our loved ones to live on for a long time in our memories. ====JACK: In the makeup of humans, memory plays an important part. Is the recollection of the dead an essential, or is it one of life's luxuries?====PH: don't we tend to forget the bad ones and remember the good ones? isn't that why we have "the good old days"?? this is a gift from our sometimes faulty memories....====JACK: You can order "The Good Old Days" magazine for $17.95 a year. There should be a place in your pension for that amount.
FROM TARMART REV: Have a few myself...remembrance of the experience in knowing them is still very much current in my memory today...it's those I've forgotten "and what was that he said I liked so well" that still disappoints me when I try to recall. Remembering to write it down and storing it in a systematic fashion has paid off over the years for me.====JACK: "Who do you remember?" might be an interesting conversation starter as you talk with people at Target and WalMart today.====REV: "The Living Dead!" ... seems like a timely and popular topic of late ... when is Halloween?! On a serious note . . . many fond memories of those earlier years of church events as youth rallies, summer camps, and Bible college . . . and with these came pastors, evangelists and teachers who invested in my life, but who have also now gone on beyond this life on earth . . . so appreciative of the many relationships I've encountered along my earthly journey . . . and just as special was ours through the WB experiences. ====JACK: Zombies? I haven't thought of that? And, as Bob Hope used to sing, "Thanks for the memories..."
FROM HONEST JOHN: That's a memory after the death of another person. Who is now not living. ====JACK: Your Swedish "matter-of-fact-ness" is showing..====JOHN: To a Norwegian is to be dead before one dies...how about that for my "Swedishness?"====JACK: What "ism" is this, philosophically? ====JOHN: Triumphalism====JACK: I see it as realism.
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: Yes indeed! Our memory is a wonderful gift.....when we remember fondly! ====JACK: I wonder...Will there be memory in "heaven?" If so, just the good ones?====RAY: Maybe....I have often thought about the phrase, "...your sins will be remembered no more". They have been blotted out and forgotten. Maybe we'll learn or experience this ourselves!====JACK: I guess "No More Tears" is more than the name of a shampoo.
FROM EMT SINGS IN TRAVERSE CITY: I am also a fan of A.B. and have a couple of his books. I am now in T.C. and getting your WW is a touch of the familiar in our new life! Thanks!====JACK: Some Jewish surnames have to do with precious things. Brilliant is along this line, as are...Gold, Silver, Pearl, Ruby, etc. Can you think of others?
FROM MY LAWYER: At every synagogue at sabbath services and periodically at memorial services year-round, the name of every person who died on the weekly anniversary of that particular service is published in the service brochure and, in Temple Israel's case, the name of every person who has a family member in attendance at that service is read aloud. I like your rettorical question: "Is that sort of life after death?" Yes, I think it is. While I think of my parents almost daily, at the anniversaries of their deaths, if I'm in Temple, others in attendance will hear their names mentioned and, hopefully, rekindle nice memories. Similarly, when I hear the necrology list, I recall, mostly pleasurably, nice things about the people mentioned that I knew.====JACK: Isn't it interesting...the things that trigger memories...words, events, resemblances, aromas? Memory is such a great gift. I remember when you brought your father to an Optimist Club meeting. And now, you're bringing your grandson.
Tuesday, October 08, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/8/13
“When baseball’s no longer fun, it’s no longer a game.” (Joe DiMaggio) Joltin’ Joe was batting .350 and was a highly paid player when he retired, saying,” baseball is no longer fun.” I suppose most of us would not classify our job as fun, or as a game, but I really did enjoy my work. Maybe you can say the same about your occupation. Have you heard the expression, “The game of life?” What makes life fun for you? ;-) Jack
FROM ME OUT EAST: Life itself. On E Coast having fun.====JACK: Which coast has the most fun? East or west? I had fun coasting in the winter down the Irma hills.
FROM TARMART REV: Knowing I'm part of a calling and message that is eternal and will never fade away . . . "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" (II Corinthians 4:18).====JACK: That sounds like minister talk. Oh, that's right! You are a minister.
FROM PH IN MINNESOTA: Jack, i have always liked the phrase: if you love your job, you will never work a day in your life. i always thought that was pretty much true of the ministry. some bad days but not very many.====JACK: Do you still need vacations, now that you no longer have to work?
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Ninety percemt of my career life was fun. The other ten percent was a pain in the ... but productive. So, choose wisely and if it doesn't work, get a new bat.====JACK: It's all in the game. You win some; you lose some. And, in between, you have some fun.FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Baseball is like watching grass grow! B-o-o-o-o-o-ring.====JACK: That's probably because you're a fan of the Cubs, or just a crotchety old guy.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Lucky Joe, who could afford to quit when it was no longer "fun". The vast majority does not have that option! But he did have some difficult issues in his life, as we all do at times. Right now it is a gorgeous Fall day, and I will have fun at my bridge luncheon, and tonight a Prayer Service for NAMI, helping those who have mental challenges. Every day is new with opportunities and joys!! ====JACK: As they say in bridge, "You gotta know when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em."
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: The best was being a wife and a mother of five children. I also enjoyed my life as a teacher and as an airline employee. Right now I am enjoying life in general- the children, the grandchildren and all of their activities. I also enjoy life when the Rays win. How about the Tigers?====JACK: Nothin' better than family for many of us. Baseball was fun today...in Detroit. I'm hoping for the Tigers and the Rays in the next series. That would be "fun."
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: "The game of life." It's much like any other game....sometimes it's a home run or an interception or a ball in fairly good putting range......When my "game of life" is no longer "fun"....I'll become a spectator...until.....It all boils down to how I play the game. ====JACK: You're a winner!
“When baseball’s no longer fun, it’s no longer a game.” (Joe DiMaggio) Joltin’ Joe was batting .350 and was a highly paid player when he retired, saying,” baseball is no longer fun.” I suppose most of us would not classify our job as fun, or as a game, but I really did enjoy my work. Maybe you can say the same about your occupation. Have you heard the expression, “The game of life?” What makes life fun for you? ;-) Jack
FROM ME OUT EAST: Life itself. On E Coast having fun.====JACK: Which coast has the most fun? East or west? I had fun coasting in the winter down the Irma hills.
FROM TARMART REV: Knowing I'm part of a calling and message that is eternal and will never fade away . . . "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" (II Corinthians 4:18).====JACK: That sounds like minister talk. Oh, that's right! You are a minister.
FROM PH IN MINNESOTA: Jack, i have always liked the phrase: if you love your job, you will never work a day in your life. i always thought that was pretty much true of the ministry. some bad days but not very many.====JACK: Do you still need vacations, now that you no longer have to work?
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Ninety percemt of my career life was fun. The other ten percent was a pain in the ... but productive. So, choose wisely and if it doesn't work, get a new bat.====JACK: It's all in the game. You win some; you lose some. And, in between, you have some fun.FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Baseball is like watching grass grow! B-o-o-o-o-o-ring.====JACK: That's probably because you're a fan of the Cubs, or just a crotchety old guy.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Lucky Joe, who could afford to quit when it was no longer "fun". The vast majority does not have that option! But he did have some difficult issues in his life, as we all do at times. Right now it is a gorgeous Fall day, and I will have fun at my bridge luncheon, and tonight a Prayer Service for NAMI, helping those who have mental challenges. Every day is new with opportunities and joys!! ====JACK: As they say in bridge, "You gotta know when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em."
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: The best was being a wife and a mother of five children. I also enjoyed my life as a teacher and as an airline employee. Right now I am enjoying life in general- the children, the grandchildren and all of their activities. I also enjoy life when the Rays win. How about the Tigers?====JACK: Nothin' better than family for many of us. Baseball was fun today...in Detroit. I'm hoping for the Tigers and the Rays in the next series. That would be "fun."
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: "The game of life." It's much like any other game....sometimes it's a home run or an interception or a ball in fairly good putting range......When my "game of life" is no longer "fun"....I'll become a spectator...until.....It all boils down to how I play the game. ====JACK: You're a winner!
Monday, October 07, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 107/13
“I arise in the morning torn between the desire to save the world and a desire to savor the world. This makes it hard to plan the day.” (E.B. White) I met E.B. White in Freshman English and became reacquainted recently by re-reading his book, One Man’s Meat. Charlotte’s Web is his, too. He savored the world and, by words, enables us to taste it, too. On this Monday, do you have a goal for the day or week? ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: "To share and attempt to model the life of the One who did save the world and try to savor the moment in doing so!" Another good thought to ponder this Monday morning- thanks, Jack!! ====JACK: You've planned your work....Now, work your plan!
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: I like it.====JACK: Is it hard to plan your day?====GEORGE: I treated it as a tongue-in-cheek statement. One thing I've noticed: The busier I get, the easier it is to plan what to do.
FROM CH ON CAPE COD: To savor the world. Then, again, looking at our congress, maybe I should aspire to save the world. (Ha!)====JACK: Ultimately, there is only one Savior. The rest of us just have to muddle along and make the best of it. Frustrating, isn't it?
FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: Carol's 2 little girls are reading Charlotte's Web right now. A chapter a night. I got to read one to them last week.====JACK: I can't remember reading the Web, although I've heard much about it. I read Curious George books to my grandchildren. That was fun!
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: We can't save the world but we can make a difference in our little world. ====JACK: "And if everyone lit just one little candle What a bright world this would be "====JACK: If each person would do something to improve their little world, as you are trying to do, what a bright world this would be.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: You bet! Savor each bit of it, and look for opportunities to "save" as well. With our Congressional gridlock, WHO can SAVE us??! Help! As Tim Sanders says in his book "We Are Rich", "THINK OF FIVE THINGS YOU ARE GRATEFUL FOR TODAY....NOW HOW DO YOU FEEL? :-)====JACK: When counting our blessings, one thing that we take for granted (I mentioned it last week) is the nearness of God, even when we don't sense it. Probably the greatest of all of our blessings!
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Yes, definitely with a granddaughter's wedding at the end of the week here in Tampa and family and friends coming in from all over the country. She is being married at the same church where her mother and father were married thirty years ago. Now I just get to enjoy the events and the people each day. It will all be beautiful and fun. After the wedding there will be an ultimate frisbee tournament where we all be staying and then a reception at the club where everyone will be riding to and from on the Jolly Trolley. Some of her cousins will be altar boys, flower girl, and general helpers. I am looking forward to each day now. ====JACK: ....and the beat goes on.
FROM LH IN MICHIGAN: I am jealous. I would have liked to have met White to tell him how incredibly helpful Strunk and his English grammar usage book was. I think it was called "Elements of Style". ====JACK: I should have put met in quotation marks.
“I arise in the morning torn between the desire to save the world and a desire to savor the world. This makes it hard to plan the day.” (E.B. White) I met E.B. White in Freshman English and became reacquainted recently by re-reading his book, One Man’s Meat. Charlotte’s Web is his, too. He savored the world and, by words, enables us to taste it, too. On this Monday, do you have a goal for the day or week? ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: "To share and attempt to model the life of the One who did save the world and try to savor the moment in doing so!" Another good thought to ponder this Monday morning- thanks, Jack!! ====JACK: You've planned your work....Now, work your plan!
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: I like it.====JACK: Is it hard to plan your day?====GEORGE: I treated it as a tongue-in-cheek statement. One thing I've noticed: The busier I get, the easier it is to plan what to do.
FROM CH ON CAPE COD: To savor the world. Then, again, looking at our congress, maybe I should aspire to save the world. (Ha!)====JACK: Ultimately, there is only one Savior. The rest of us just have to muddle along and make the best of it. Frustrating, isn't it?
FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: Carol's 2 little girls are reading Charlotte's Web right now. A chapter a night. I got to read one to them last week.====JACK: I can't remember reading the Web, although I've heard much about it. I read Curious George books to my grandchildren. That was fun!
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: We can't save the world but we can make a difference in our little world. ====JACK: "And if everyone lit just one little candle What a bright world this would be "====JACK: If each person would do something to improve their little world, as you are trying to do, what a bright world this would be.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: You bet! Savor each bit of it, and look for opportunities to "save" as well. With our Congressional gridlock, WHO can SAVE us??! Help! As Tim Sanders says in his book "We Are Rich", "THINK OF FIVE THINGS YOU ARE GRATEFUL FOR TODAY....NOW HOW DO YOU FEEL? :-)====JACK: When counting our blessings, one thing that we take for granted (I mentioned it last week) is the nearness of God, even when we don't sense it. Probably the greatest of all of our blessings!
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Yes, definitely with a granddaughter's wedding at the end of the week here in Tampa and family and friends coming in from all over the country. She is being married at the same church where her mother and father were married thirty years ago. Now I just get to enjoy the events and the people each day. It will all be beautiful and fun. After the wedding there will be an ultimate frisbee tournament where we all be staying and then a reception at the club where everyone will be riding to and from on the Jolly Trolley. Some of her cousins will be altar boys, flower girl, and general helpers. I am looking forward to each day now. ====JACK: ....and the beat goes on.
FROM LH IN MICHIGAN: I am jealous. I would have liked to have met White to tell him how incredibly helpful Strunk and his English grammar usage book was. I think it was called "Elements of Style". ====JACK: I should have put met in quotation marks.
Friday, October 04, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/4/13
“Think slow. Act fast.” (Buster Keaton) Buster is one of my all-time favorite slapstick comedians. Thru YouTube we can still see and laugh at some of his antics. Today’s quote shows Keaton’s serious side. When making an important decision, it might be good to follow his advice about thinking slow. Yet, a case can also be made for thinking fast and then letting things simmer. I tend to simmer. How about you? ;-) Jack
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: That WW could be the cousin of, "Measure twice, cut once." ====JACK: That sounds like carpenter lingo, but it fits with many occupations.
FROM TARMART REV: ... "simmer" and too many times fall asleep, forgetting what it was I had on the stove.====JACK: When the smoke alarm sounds and I see something burning on the stove, I act fast, fast, fast...as they say in the TV ad.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: This is like many things in life ,it depends on the situation: If you are in a crisis you must think & act fast If you have the luxury to give yourself thinking time before making an important decision that’s the best! There is a saying:”If in the face of a problem you just twiddle your thumbs,the problem doesn’t get solved & all you end up is with thinner thumbs”====JACK: Did you ever suddenly toss something to someone and say, "Think fast!" Is it during Yom Kippur that you've got to think...fast?
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: I think slower than ever and can't move fast if I wanted to! ====JACK: An evaluation was given with regard to how a man performed his job. "His greatest sin is, sloth." Have you ever watched the sloths at the zoo Slooooooow.....
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Measure twice, saw once.====JACK: Say that again??
FROM BLAZING OAKS: "BETTER TO DO SOMETHING IMPERFECTLY, THAN TO DO NOTHING FLAWLESSLY" (ROBERT SCHULLER)...SOMETIMES WE OVERTHINK A SITUATION, AND BECOME "PARALYZED"....DECISION-MAKING IF HARD FOR MOST OF US!! GOOD WW TO THINK ON....====JACK Another familiar saying..."Not to decide is to decide."
FROM HCC CHUCK: Wish I could let it simmer it seems I to often respond without good thought. ====JACK: I like the word, simmer, better than the word, stew. Or, how about the admonition, "Get off the pot?"
“Think slow. Act fast.” (Buster Keaton) Buster is one of my all-time favorite slapstick comedians. Thru YouTube we can still see and laugh at some of his antics. Today’s quote shows Keaton’s serious side. When making an important decision, it might be good to follow his advice about thinking slow. Yet, a case can also be made for thinking fast and then letting things simmer. I tend to simmer. How about you? ;-) Jack
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: That WW could be the cousin of, "Measure twice, cut once." ====JACK: That sounds like carpenter lingo, but it fits with many occupations.
FROM TARMART REV: ... "simmer" and too many times fall asleep, forgetting what it was I had on the stove.====JACK: When the smoke alarm sounds and I see something burning on the stove, I act fast, fast, fast...as they say in the TV ad.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: This is like many things in life ,it depends on the situation: If you are in a crisis you must think & act fast If you have the luxury to give yourself thinking time before making an important decision that’s the best! There is a saying:”If in the face of a problem you just twiddle your thumbs,the problem doesn’t get solved & all you end up is with thinner thumbs”====JACK: Did you ever suddenly toss something to someone and say, "Think fast!" Is it during Yom Kippur that you've got to think...fast?
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: I think slower than ever and can't move fast if I wanted to! ====JACK: An evaluation was given with regard to how a man performed his job. "His greatest sin is, sloth." Have you ever watched the sloths at the zoo Slooooooow.....
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Measure twice, saw once.====JACK: Say that again??
FROM BLAZING OAKS: "BETTER TO DO SOMETHING IMPERFECTLY, THAN TO DO NOTHING FLAWLESSLY" (ROBERT SCHULLER)...SOMETIMES WE OVERTHINK A SITUATION, AND BECOME "PARALYZED"....DECISION-MAKING IF HARD FOR MOST OF US!! GOOD WW TO THINK ON....====JACK Another familiar saying..."Not to decide is to decide."
FROM HCC CHUCK: Wish I could let it simmer it seems I to often respond without good thought. ====JACK: I like the word, simmer, better than the word, stew. Or, how about the admonition, "Get off the pot?"
Thursday, October 03, 2013
Jack’s Winning Words 10/3/13
“Have confidence in God’s mercy, for when you think he is a long way from you, he is often quite near.” (Thomas a Kempis) When do you feel nearest to God? I’ve read that as the Titanic was sinking the band was on the deck playing “Nearer, My God, To Thee.” Some people say that they feel nearest to God while taking a walk. There’s a promise in the Bible that God will never leave us, that he with us now! Wow! ;-) Jack
FROM JK: Thanks for this One! I needed to hear that. :)====JACK: Yours was the first response I received after posting WWs...and it was almost immediate. God works in mysterious ways.
FROM TARMART REV: It seems to me, as I've heard and experienced this closeness often in my life and in the life of others, it most frequently happens "on the mountain tops of God's splendor or in the deep valleys of life's despair" . . . unfortunately, if becoming settled in one of these two places, God's Presence can eventually be replaced with the feeling of self-entitlement or embitterment. 0;-/====JACK: Mountaintop experiences don't last forever. After meeting with Jesus "on the mountain," the disciples had to go back to the "real" world. Sometimes we don't realize that God is with us in the real world, too.====REV: My turn w/ a song: "Count your blessings, name them one by one, Count your blessings see what God hath done, Count your blessing, name them one by one, Count your many blessings, see what God hath done."
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I think today's WW is a perfect follow-up from yesterday's WW. I am closer to God when I am being charitable, sharing the gifts, blessings, and talents afforded myself with others who might also benefit from them; sharing the fruits of all that I have been given and the harvests of my own toil by my will as it is synchronous with God's will. That is not only when I feel closest, it is when I am closest. ====JACK: I, too, needed a break from yesterday. On the spur of the moment, I decided that this was the WWs that I wanted to post. Cue the theme of The Twilight Zone.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: For me, it varies: a beautiful or awesome nature scene, a meaningful time of prayer, sometimes family gatherings, or crisis situations.....but I "talk" to God mentally, sometimes even out loud throughout the day, and believe he is with us in all things. Read a quote in Guidepost recently: "Your day will go the way your mouth turns". Something to think about!====JACK: Some days I sense God's presence more than on others...and, yet, he is omnipresent! Eeerie1
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Every Day in everything. BTW thank you so much for the WW. The years have gone by so fast since that class reunion that you first mentioned your undertaking. This afternoon I have an OLLI class on the Civil War in the West. It was years after our children were grown that I heard that it was the War of Northern Aggression in the classrooms down here.====JACK: I try to learn something new every day. For example, I had a crown replaced this morning...one stop. The dentist was able to take laser photos, feed them into the computer, and in a few minutes, out popped the new crown, ready to be installed, and it was a perfect fit. I'm amazed at today's technology..
FROM HCC CHUCK: And I firmly beleive that!!!!!!====JACK: You're on solid ground.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: Here's my take on today's WW.....God"s eye is on the sparrow, so I know....." I believe that I truly feel His presence, see His presence, hear His presence.....full time. I'm not always reciprocal, but much of the time.====JACK: We have mostly sparrows at our bird feeder, but we also get finches, cardinals, bluejays, grackles, woodpeckers and doves. An occasional hawk swoops down.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: This is kind of silly, but when I hear or sing one of the old hymns, I feel Jesus right next to me. The words in some of those old hymns are overwhelmingly beautiful and meaningful. ====JACK: Jesus put up with a lot of silliness when he walked on earth. He can listen to you and me sing, too.
“Have confidence in God’s mercy, for when you think he is a long way from you, he is often quite near.” (Thomas a Kempis) When do you feel nearest to God? I’ve read that as the Titanic was sinking the band was on the deck playing “Nearer, My God, To Thee.” Some people say that they feel nearest to God while taking a walk. There’s a promise in the Bible that God will never leave us, that he with us now! Wow! ;-) Jack
FROM JK: Thanks for this One! I needed to hear that. :)====JACK: Yours was the first response I received after posting WWs...and it was almost immediate. God works in mysterious ways.
FROM TARMART REV: It seems to me, as I've heard and experienced this closeness often in my life and in the life of others, it most frequently happens "on the mountain tops of God's splendor or in the deep valleys of life's despair" . . . unfortunately, if becoming settled in one of these two places, God's Presence can eventually be replaced with the feeling of self-entitlement or embitterment. 0;-/====JACK: Mountaintop experiences don't last forever. After meeting with Jesus "on the mountain," the disciples had to go back to the "real" world. Sometimes we don't realize that God is with us in the real world, too.====REV: My turn w/ a song: "Count your blessings, name them one by one, Count your blessings see what God hath done, Count your blessing, name them one by one, Count your many blessings, see what God hath done."
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I think today's WW is a perfect follow-up from yesterday's WW. I am closer to God when I am being charitable, sharing the gifts, blessings, and talents afforded myself with others who might also benefit from them; sharing the fruits of all that I have been given and the harvests of my own toil by my will as it is synchronous with God's will. That is not only when I feel closest, it is when I am closest. ====JACK: I, too, needed a break from yesterday. On the spur of the moment, I decided that this was the WWs that I wanted to post. Cue the theme of The Twilight Zone.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: For me, it varies: a beautiful or awesome nature scene, a meaningful time of prayer, sometimes family gatherings, or crisis situations.....but I "talk" to God mentally, sometimes even out loud throughout the day, and believe he is with us in all things. Read a quote in Guidepost recently: "Your day will go the way your mouth turns". Something to think about!====JACK: Some days I sense God's presence more than on others...and, yet, he is omnipresent! Eeerie1
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Every Day in everything. BTW thank you so much for the WW. The years have gone by so fast since that class reunion that you first mentioned your undertaking. This afternoon I have an OLLI class on the Civil War in the West. It was years after our children were grown that I heard that it was the War of Northern Aggression in the classrooms down here.====JACK: I try to learn something new every day. For example, I had a crown replaced this morning...one stop. The dentist was able to take laser photos, feed them into the computer, and in a few minutes, out popped the new crown, ready to be installed, and it was a perfect fit. I'm amazed at today's technology..
FROM HCC CHUCK: And I firmly beleive that!!!!!!====JACK: You're on solid ground.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: Here's my take on today's WW.....God"s eye is on the sparrow, so I know....." I believe that I truly feel His presence, see His presence, hear His presence.....full time. I'm not always reciprocal, but much of the time.====JACK: We have mostly sparrows at our bird feeder, but we also get finches, cardinals, bluejays, grackles, woodpeckers and doves. An occasional hawk swoops down.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: This is kind of silly, but when I hear or sing one of the old hymns, I feel Jesus right next to me. The words in some of those old hymns are overwhelmingly beautiful and meaningful. ====JACK: Jesus put up with a lot of silliness when he walked on earth. He can listen to you and me sing, too.
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