Jack’s Winning Words 1/31/14
“Sometimes change was good. Sometimes it was exactly what you needed.” (Jenny O’Connell) It used to be that you changed oil in your car every 3000 miles. Now, the car’s computer tells you when. How do you know it’s time for a life change? Every 3 to 5 years is a good time to assess your life’s direction. Senator Everett Dirksen was once criticized for changing his mind on an issue. He responded, “The only people who don’t change their minds are those in asylums, and those who are in cemeteries.” ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: I embrace change. I sometimes need to think twice so I don't jst change for the sake of changing. We need some ruts, too.====JACK: You're right! The qualifier is..."sometimes!" My son used to drive down busy Telegraph Rd on his way to work. While other drivers were continually changing lanes, he noticed that if he stayed the course, he and the "changers" would often be side by side at each stop light.
FROM DOCTOR PAUL: Everett Dirksen!!!! Now there is an interesting person that probably anyone under 40 has no idea who he was. I can still here that gravel voice of his. He was so colorful! We need more Senators like him!====JACK: Michigan had some statesmen at senators, too....Vandenberg, Hart and soon-to-be-retired, Carl Levin.====PAUL: Right... And Williams and a republican who could never be endured by his party if he were involved today...Milliken.====JACK: ....and let's not forget about HHH, Hubert Horatio Humphrey.====PAUL: One of the best and could have changed dramatically from where we are today. That would make an interesting book or movie!!====JACK: I once met him personally...a down-to-earth individual.
FROM TS IN INDIANA: Speaking of cars - Somehow a couple of us here got on the subject of automatic transmissions in cars. Today it is either automatic or manual. Do you remember the names of the automatic transmissions when they first came out: hydro-matic, powerglide, Fordomatic, Mercomatic, Power-glide. Do you remember anymore?====JACK: I remember cars that had push-button shifting, instead of gear shift sticks or levers....Chryslers and Cords...there may have been more.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: To change your mind is to admit you were wrong, and that's why so many folks resist it.====JACK: I would put it more positively and say, "I've discovered a better way!" ====PFC: That's because you are not afraid of being wrong.====JACK: As it says in the Bible: "All have sinned (including me) and fallen short of the glory of God."
FROM RI IN BOSTON: Change is inevitable. While it may not please us, such change may be very good for someone else, so it has positive consequences regardless of our indifference. Seems to me we should just embrace change and see where it takes us. It may benefit us in ways that we never imagined. My father when he was a boy had a "bad tomato experience" and he refused to eat tomatoes again. When my mother prepared spaghetti with tomato sauce, my father refused to eat it. After I married and my parents came to visit us, my wife announced she was making spaghetti for dinner, which brought a complaint from my dad. Nevertheless, when dinner was served the main course was spaghetti, but enhanced with butter, sausage and egg...no tomato sauce. One taste and my father was hooked. From that time on he never failed to ask for spaghetti again.====JACK: Did he feel the same way about ketchup? I had a sister-in-law who did not like real maple syrup. She would only eat Log Cabin syrup. Unbeknownst to her....her father would fill the empty Log Cabin container with maple syrup, and she didn't know the difference.
FROM TARMART REV: Consistency is a good practice and one that a person can count on . . . but sometimes change is a necessity because of a better opportunity or because of a circumstance that was not your chosen directive . . . like coming back to you later than usual this morning . . . an early morning notification from the dispatcher at 12:30 am called for some assistance at a home fire where 5 folk made their way out of their burning house . . . two hours later the fire was completely out, the family of five were placed temporarily in two motel rooms by our Salvation Army, and I had an opportunity to minister and direct as a chaplain with the firefighters, ambulance crew and law enforcement on the scene. At my age now, I happily slept in this morning letting the morning fend for itself without me . . . and it did quite nicely I must add.====JACK: I wonder what would happen if, one day, I slept in and didn't send out Winning Words? I would imagine that the world would keep spinning.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Life is all about changes and making decisions.====JACK: Every moment seems ro present a fork in the road.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: CHANGES SEEM TO COME FASTER AND FASTER IN THIS HISTORIC TIME TRY GOING BACK TO YOUR OLD HOME TOWN, OR NEIGHBORHOOD, AND IT IS NEARLY UNRECOGNIZABLE! IF WE CAN'T ADAPT TO CHANGE, WE ARE SUNK, EXCEPT FOR OUR UNCHANGING GOD;, THE SAME YESTERDAY, TODAY AND FOREVER!!====JACK: Have you noticed???? When the sand in the top of the hourglass gets close to the end, it seems to run out faster and faster. God's hourglass has an unlimited supply.
FROM DOCTOR JUDY: Really liked this a lot!! Thanks====JACK: As Facebook puts it...LMTA.
Friday, January 31, 2014
Thursday, January 30, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/30/14
“The most important ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people.” (Theodore Roosevelt) Forbes magazine says that success begins when you quit saying, “Tomorrow!” Dr. Phil says, “Find a passion.” Paul Getty’s advice: “Rise early, work hard, strike oil.” But Teddy Roosevelt had the right idea. When you’re able to get along with people, “your” world is a better place. ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: I was thinking of you last night. I have a friend Charlie Bear who sits on our bed who is so much of an optimist that he makes even you appear to be somewhat pessimistic. I will have to introduce you two some day.====JACK: I used to be a Bear fan, but have switched to the Lion after moving to Detroit
FROM TRIHARDER: success is defined differently, much differently, by different people. And, still, a person may be successful in one part of his/her life; and, yet, a failure at another (or others)====JACK: Just like beauty--success is in the eye of the beholder. But you'll probably agree that "getting along with people" is a positive quality in people, no matter how you define success in their life..====TH: ... and may be defined as a success in and of itself. Some people wake up in the morning have that very goal. ====JACK: ...and some people get up on the wrong side of the bed. Such is life.====TH: Amen Or as the kids say...Your totally right dude====JACK: I was curious. I found out that "dude" traces back to the Doodle in Yankee Doodle Dandy, who stuck a feather in his hat. A kind of foppish character who dressed in a strange way. Doodle became, dude.
FROM TARMART REV: I try to always remember to "invest in the lives of people" and in "the Word of God" for they are eternal and the only two things I can take with me after death here on earth . . . don't want to be lonely in the kingdom to come.====JACK: I like this passage from the Sermon on the Mount... “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." The friends you have are an incorruptible treasure.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Theodore Roosevelt is one of my favorite presidents. His advice is excellent. There have been a few people, only a few, I have a really hard time getting along with. Sometimes the best way to deal with those folks are to stay clear. If that's impossible, say as little as possible .====JACK: Teddy also said, "Speak softly and carry a big stick."
FROM BLAZING OAKS: T.R. is so right. It is absolutely crucial to know how to work, play and interact with people on every level of life! BTW "At Calvary" is a beloved hymn in all the Baptist hymnals... ====JACK: Roosevelt's religious background was Dutch Reformed. He attended Episcopal churches, because that was his wife's religion.
FROM KF IN MICHIGAN: It is a choice, right?====JACK: My first inclination was to answer, Yes! But upon further review, I think the choice is harder for some than others. Those born and raised in poverty, those born in disfunctional homes, those who had inferior educational opportunities. "All are created equal," but not all have equal opportunities. But, choice does play a part. There are those who have chosen to rise above circumstances and have become successful.
“The most important ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people.” (Theodore Roosevelt) Forbes magazine says that success begins when you quit saying, “Tomorrow!” Dr. Phil says, “Find a passion.” Paul Getty’s advice: “Rise early, work hard, strike oil.” But Teddy Roosevelt had the right idea. When you’re able to get along with people, “your” world is a better place. ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: I was thinking of you last night. I have a friend Charlie Bear who sits on our bed who is so much of an optimist that he makes even you appear to be somewhat pessimistic. I will have to introduce you two some day.====JACK: I used to be a Bear fan, but have switched to the Lion after moving to Detroit
FROM TRIHARDER: success is defined differently, much differently, by different people. And, still, a person may be successful in one part of his/her life; and, yet, a failure at another (or others)====JACK: Just like beauty--success is in the eye of the beholder. But you'll probably agree that "getting along with people" is a positive quality in people, no matter how you define success in their life..====TH: ... and may be defined as a success in and of itself. Some people wake up in the morning have that very goal. ====JACK: ...and some people get up on the wrong side of the bed. Such is life.====TH: Amen Or as the kids say...Your totally right dude====JACK: I was curious. I found out that "dude" traces back to the Doodle in Yankee Doodle Dandy, who stuck a feather in his hat. A kind of foppish character who dressed in a strange way. Doodle became, dude.
FROM TARMART REV: I try to always remember to "invest in the lives of people" and in "the Word of God" for they are eternal and the only two things I can take with me after death here on earth . . . don't want to be lonely in the kingdom to come.====JACK: I like this passage from the Sermon on the Mount... “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." The friends you have are an incorruptible treasure.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Theodore Roosevelt is one of my favorite presidents. His advice is excellent. There have been a few people, only a few, I have a really hard time getting along with. Sometimes the best way to deal with those folks are to stay clear. If that's impossible, say as little as possible .====JACK: Teddy also said, "Speak softly and carry a big stick."
FROM BLAZING OAKS: T.R. is so right. It is absolutely crucial to know how to work, play and interact with people on every level of life! BTW "At Calvary" is a beloved hymn in all the Baptist hymnals... ====JACK: Roosevelt's religious background was Dutch Reformed. He attended Episcopal churches, because that was his wife's religion.
FROM KF IN MICHIGAN: It is a choice, right?====JACK: My first inclination was to answer, Yes! But upon further review, I think the choice is harder for some than others. Those born and raised in poverty, those born in disfunctional homes, those who had inferior educational opportunities. "All are created equal," but not all have equal opportunities. But, choice does play a part. There are those who have chosen to rise above circumstances and have become successful.
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/29/14
“Most people call me, Mercy. I like that.” (Mercedes McCambridge) In light of our winter weather, these words by Pope Francis seem appropriate: “A little bit of mercy makes the world less cold and more just.” I remember reading The Merchant of Venice as a 9th grader…especially, “The quality of mercy is not strained.” And then this truth follows…”Mercy blesses both the one who gives and the one who takes.” ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: The OT lesson this week is Micah 6.====JACK: I remember a seminary prof who challenged us to remember Micah's words as we went out to do ministry..."Do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with your God." Martin Marty is part of my generation, and one of his sons is named, Micah.
FROM WATERFORD JAN: If mercy can be defined as kindness given, some of the spontaneous kindnesses I have rendered have brought me exceeding pleasure. They have been pleasant surprises for the receiver and to this giver. Planned mercy through organization programs is also pleasurable--I'm thinking of our church food pantry.====JACK: The Bible passage, "The Lord loves a cheerful giver," has been translated, "The Lord loves the one one who gives hilariously."
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I remember having to memorize that speech on Mercy and recite it to the class, in Miss Garst's speech class. That, and the one from Hamlet, "Is this a dagger I see before me? Come, let me clutch thee!..." We took it very seriously; I wonder if kids today would?! MERCY, when you don't get what you deserve...or GRACE, when you get what you don't deserve. :-) I lost a much younger bridge buddy and neighbor, early this morning, and am thankful again for a merciful God, when we enter eternity and judgment! "Eye hath not seen, neither has entered into the heart of man, what God has prepared for those who love him"! Mercy!====JACK: I'm reading a book, written by a mother whose 16-yr-old son was killed in an auto accident. Getting what you don't deserve begs for a different word than, grace...or so it seems.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: We must have had a great teacher to remember that. It was all very impressive. Pope Francis has a lot of good ideas. I do reading his tweets every day, even though my new 5C phone and computer sometimes do mysterious things Thanks for all of the WW. You often jog my memory. ====JACK: Probably, Mrs. Wiggins. I wonder whatever happened to Bessie Mae Coleman?
FROM TARMART REV: There you go again . . . stirring up an old hymn or two:
(v) Years I spent in vanity and pride, Caring not my Lord was crucified, Knowing not it was for me He died On Calvary.
(v) By God’s Word at last my sin I learned; Then I trembled at the law I’d spurned, Till my guilty soul imploring turned To Calvary.
(v) Now I’ve giv’n to Jesus ev’rything, Now I gladly own Him as my King, Now my raptured soul can only sing Of Calvary.
(v) Oh, the love that drew salvation’s plan! Oh, the grace that bro’t it down to man! Oh, the mighty gulf that God did span At Calvary.
(Chorus) Mercy there was great, and grace was free; Pardon there was multiplied to me; There my burdened soul found liberty, AT CALVARY.
====JACK: I don't think that was in the Lutheran Hymnal. Maybe you can sing a stanza or two when we meet again at Panera.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: "Tis mightiest in the mightiest.." Mrs. Wiggins' English class at John Deere Junior High a looongtime ago! "And earthly power doth then show likest God's when mercy seasons justice." I like the words of Pope Francis"A little bit of mercy...less cold and more just". Is it possible for our l our legal system allow for mercy to season justice?====JACK: Sometimes we think that the only learning takes place in college. Not so! I even remember learning about the American Indians in Kindergarten...and also learning how to color.pictures. Jack Kevorkian, who advocated "mercy killing," lived in out community.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: I will be merciful today and not "pull your chain."====JACK: Isn't there a sign at Fejuary Park in Davenport that says, "Don't tease the monkeys?"
“Most people call me, Mercy. I like that.” (Mercedes McCambridge) In light of our winter weather, these words by Pope Francis seem appropriate: “A little bit of mercy makes the world less cold and more just.” I remember reading The Merchant of Venice as a 9th grader…especially, “The quality of mercy is not strained.” And then this truth follows…”Mercy blesses both the one who gives and the one who takes.” ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: The OT lesson this week is Micah 6.====JACK: I remember a seminary prof who challenged us to remember Micah's words as we went out to do ministry..."Do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with your God." Martin Marty is part of my generation, and one of his sons is named, Micah.
FROM WATERFORD JAN: If mercy can be defined as kindness given, some of the spontaneous kindnesses I have rendered have brought me exceeding pleasure. They have been pleasant surprises for the receiver and to this giver. Planned mercy through organization programs is also pleasurable--I'm thinking of our church food pantry.====JACK: The Bible passage, "The Lord loves a cheerful giver," has been translated, "The Lord loves the one one who gives hilariously."
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I remember having to memorize that speech on Mercy and recite it to the class, in Miss Garst's speech class. That, and the one from Hamlet, "Is this a dagger I see before me? Come, let me clutch thee!..." We took it very seriously; I wonder if kids today would?! MERCY, when you don't get what you deserve...or GRACE, when you get what you don't deserve. :-) I lost a much younger bridge buddy and neighbor, early this morning, and am thankful again for a merciful God, when we enter eternity and judgment! "Eye hath not seen, neither has entered into the heart of man, what God has prepared for those who love him"! Mercy!====JACK: I'm reading a book, written by a mother whose 16-yr-old son was killed in an auto accident. Getting what you don't deserve begs for a different word than, grace...or so it seems.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: We must have had a great teacher to remember that. It was all very impressive. Pope Francis has a lot of good ideas. I do reading his tweets every day, even though my new 5C phone and computer sometimes do mysterious things Thanks for all of the WW. You often jog my memory. ====JACK: Probably, Mrs. Wiggins. I wonder whatever happened to Bessie Mae Coleman?
FROM TARMART REV: There you go again . . . stirring up an old hymn or two:
(v) Years I spent in vanity and pride, Caring not my Lord was crucified, Knowing not it was for me He died On Calvary.
(v) By God’s Word at last my sin I learned; Then I trembled at the law I’d spurned, Till my guilty soul imploring turned To Calvary.
(v) Now I’ve giv’n to Jesus ev’rything, Now I gladly own Him as my King, Now my raptured soul can only sing Of Calvary.
(v) Oh, the love that drew salvation’s plan! Oh, the grace that bro’t it down to man! Oh, the mighty gulf that God did span At Calvary.
(Chorus) Mercy there was great, and grace was free; Pardon there was multiplied to me; There my burdened soul found liberty, AT CALVARY.
====JACK: I don't think that was in the Lutheran Hymnal. Maybe you can sing a stanza or two when we meet again at Panera.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: "Tis mightiest in the mightiest.." Mrs. Wiggins' English class at John Deere Junior High a looongtime ago! "And earthly power doth then show likest God's when mercy seasons justice." I like the words of Pope Francis"A little bit of mercy...less cold and more just". Is it possible for our l our legal system allow for mercy to season justice?====JACK: Sometimes we think that the only learning takes place in college. Not so! I even remember learning about the American Indians in Kindergarten...and also learning how to color.pictures. Jack Kevorkian, who advocated "mercy killing," lived in out community.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: I will be merciful today and not "pull your chain."====JACK: Isn't there a sign at Fejuary Park in Davenport that says, "Don't tease the monkeys?"
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/28/14
“If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant. If we did not sometimes taste adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.” (Ann Bradstreet) We’re having the worst winter here in Michigan since 78-79. A friend in the U.P. says that Calumet has had 219” of snow, so far…with more to come. Speaking of coming, I like the Bible promise: “The sufferings of this present time aren’t worth comparing with the good things that God has coming for you.” ;-) Jack
FROM TRIHARDER: Is it like knocking one's head against the wall because it feels so good when we stop?====JACK: Strange as it may seem, we may not do it literally, but figuratively is another matter.
FROM HONEST JOHN: With this kind of Winter we should enjoy the Hell out of Spring!====JACK: In the future, when I hear someone complain about the cold, I'll say, "You call this cold? Well, I remember back in January, 2014...That was really cold. This is nothing."
FROM TARMART REV: Well put, Jack!! . . . 38 degrees a couple of Sundays ago, and some folk were walking around without jackets, feeling Spring had sprung!?!?====JACK: Everybody seems to talk about the weather, but we haven't come to the point where we want to do something about changing lifestyles in order to help save the planet. "Go green!"====REV: I would love to see some "green"!====JACK: Are you talking about the offering plate or the planet?====REV: Actually, looking for grass, budding and scenery.====JACK: It's coming, it's coming.
FROM HR IN MICHIGAN: This is funny that you mention that this is the worst winter since 1978-79. I was speaking to my wife last night at dinner and I said that the last time we had a winter like this was in 1978 when we were in Davenport. She remembered the piles of snow and getting stuck everywhere. Then we talked about the incredible thunder storms we had in the summer. They were tremendous powerful bursts of energy and driving rain, and more intense than anything I Have experienced since.====JACK: I remember something worse that this cold.....when we were without power for 2 weeks because of a spring ice storm. It was cold them, and the sump pump overflowed.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: I'm not actually thinking a lot about the "good things" that will be coming to me in the hereafter...I'm interested in getting some answers to a lot of questions I have.====JACK: We all have questions, but you and I should try not to be too hard on God, because he really loves us and wants what is best for us.
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: "the soul would have no rainbow had the eye no tear". it is cold, snowy, and windy for sure...but ahhh...it is so beautifully glittery.====JACK: That's looking on the sunnyside. In fact, that's your song for today...."
Grab your coat and get your hat
Leave your worries on the doorstep
Life can be so sweet
On the sunny side of the street
Can't you hear the pitter-pat
And that happy tune is your step
Life can be complete
On the sunny side of the street
====MARY: i'll sing that tune as i walk to school to do some alone work. we have been closed for two days now and i am getting antsy!====JACK: How old do children have to be before they can comprehend, antsy?====MARY: birth?
FROM DAZ IN COLORADO: There are two people here who very much believe that.====JACK: ...and it's more than just about the weather, isn't it?
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: No doubt the long winter helps to make the spring so beautiful. By the way, it is predicted to be in the 70s today, but it will get colder tomorrow ( 50s) in Florida.====JACK: One thing I like about a deep snow cover is that it holds moisture that the earth needs for the grass and the flowers. I'll take the 50s.
FROM DC IN KANSAS: I saw this in KOS --
A picture of Pope Francis with these words:(every other line was larger print -- so I made it bold face)
The promise was that
when the glass was full, it would overflow
benefiting the poor.
But what happens instead is that when the glass if full
it magically gets bigger
nothing ever comes out for the poor
====JACK: Some people are getting uneasy when the Pope talks about the haves helping the have-nots.
FROM HY YO SILVER: Amen====JACK: I'm glad that we're on the same page.
FROM MW IN ILLINOIS: Our front yard is 3 feet deep with snow, glad we don't have to shovel. Saddlebrook is always here early removing the snow, they do a great job. Dick has to get out with his shovel, clears the snow from the porch & deck doors, this has been the worst here in many years, I'M READY FOR SPRING!!!!====JACK: Winter is a prelude to spring, sort of like life is a preparation for eternal life. One hymn puts it this way: "Earth is but a desert (a snowdrift) drear, heaven is my home.
FROM JK IN CALIFORNIA: Thanks, I needed that***====JACK: Actually, I pray before sending out Winning Words that they might be of help to someone. ====JK: They really help me and I read them every day*****
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL!====JACK: I've seen dogs and kids roll in the snow, but not a grown man.
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: A great winning word for a cold cold day – thanks for the word and for your excellent comment!====JACK: I learned that Bible verse from a chaplain who repeated it when he went from bed to bed in Chicago's Cook County Hospital, visiting patients from the infamous Skid Row.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: a friend & i were saying how beautiful & bug-free the spring will be! ====JACK: I'm reminded of the poem by Ogden Nash..."God in his wisdom made the fly And then forgot to tell us why." Just as we each have a purpose, I suppose that each bug has a purpose, too. But some bugs bug me.====LIZ: they are a delight on the bird smorgasbord, if nothing else.====JACK: That's a purpose, of course. I suppose a bug might ask, "What is the purpose of humans?"====LIZ: a mosquito knows...====JACK: You're right! We're a part of that "buzzer's" food chain.
FROM PZ IN MICHIGAN: Thank you for a refreshing perspective on how to view this chilly taste of Mother Nature! It helps!====JACK: This morning at the meeting of the Optimist Club, we heard a mother tell about how she is dealing with the "winter" in her life, the tragic death of her 16 year old son. While the temperature will eventually warm up and the snow will melt, the memory of the winter remains.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: SO TRUE! TALKING OF BUGS IN ;YOUR BLOG, I HAVE A COLORED SKETCH OF NOAH'S ARK PAINTED ON WOOD IN MY KITCHEN WHICH SAYS, "IF NOAH HAD BEEN TRULY WISE, HE WOULD HAVE SWATTED THOSE TWO FLIES!" AND I SUPPOSE THERE IS SOME REASON FOR THE EXISTENCE OF MOSQUITOES, BUT WHAT??!! :-) ASIDE FROM FOOD FOR THE PURPLE MARTINS.! AH WELL, OUR TIMES OF COLD WINTERS (-7 HERE, SCHOOLS CLOSED, ETC.) AND ADVERSITY CERTAINLY DO MAKE THE OPPOSITE TIMES SWEETER!! GOOD WW FOR TODAY! IT WAS A DECENT DAY FOR A CWU BOARD MEETING AND PLAYING BRIDGE.====JACK: I happen to believer that the Creator creates for a reason. We can do our second guessing, but until we've walked in his shoes...(Does God wear shoes?) There is so much that is yet for us to understand.====OAKS: ISN'T THAT THE TRUTH...WE ARE NOT GIVEN MUCH IN DETAILS. AS YOUR OLD PROFESSOR SAID, "YOU CANT UNSCREW THE INSCRUTABLE"!~! I OFTEN WISH WE COULD! BUT THAT WOULD TAKE AWAY THE MYSTERY. WE NEED THE 'LARGER" GOD...
FROM DB IN MICHIGAN: Thank you Jack! That is so sweet!====JACK: I remember a basketball player who would call out "sweet" when he sank a long one. Thanks for your sweet response.
“If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant. If we did not sometimes taste adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.” (Ann Bradstreet) We’re having the worst winter here in Michigan since 78-79. A friend in the U.P. says that Calumet has had 219” of snow, so far…with more to come. Speaking of coming, I like the Bible promise: “The sufferings of this present time aren’t worth comparing with the good things that God has coming for you.” ;-) Jack
FROM TRIHARDER: Is it like knocking one's head against the wall because it feels so good when we stop?====JACK: Strange as it may seem, we may not do it literally, but figuratively is another matter.
FROM HONEST JOHN: With this kind of Winter we should enjoy the Hell out of Spring!====JACK: In the future, when I hear someone complain about the cold, I'll say, "You call this cold? Well, I remember back in January, 2014...That was really cold. This is nothing."
FROM TARMART REV: Well put, Jack!! . . . 38 degrees a couple of Sundays ago, and some folk were walking around without jackets, feeling Spring had sprung!?!?====JACK: Everybody seems to talk about the weather, but we haven't come to the point where we want to do something about changing lifestyles in order to help save the planet. "Go green!"====REV: I would love to see some "green"!====JACK: Are you talking about the offering plate or the planet?====REV: Actually, looking for grass, budding and scenery.====JACK: It's coming, it's coming.
FROM HR IN MICHIGAN: This is funny that you mention that this is the worst winter since 1978-79. I was speaking to my wife last night at dinner and I said that the last time we had a winter like this was in 1978 when we were in Davenport. She remembered the piles of snow and getting stuck everywhere. Then we talked about the incredible thunder storms we had in the summer. They were tremendous powerful bursts of energy and driving rain, and more intense than anything I Have experienced since.====JACK: I remember something worse that this cold.....when we were without power for 2 weeks because of a spring ice storm. It was cold them, and the sump pump overflowed.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: I'm not actually thinking a lot about the "good things" that will be coming to me in the hereafter...I'm interested in getting some answers to a lot of questions I have.====JACK: We all have questions, but you and I should try not to be too hard on God, because he really loves us and wants what is best for us.
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: "the soul would have no rainbow had the eye no tear". it is cold, snowy, and windy for sure...but ahhh...it is so beautifully glittery.====JACK: That's looking on the sunnyside. In fact, that's your song for today...."
Grab your coat and get your hat
Leave your worries on the doorstep
Life can be so sweet
On the sunny side of the street
Can't you hear the pitter-pat
And that happy tune is your step
Life can be complete
On the sunny side of the street
====MARY: i'll sing that tune as i walk to school to do some alone work. we have been closed for two days now and i am getting antsy!====JACK: How old do children have to be before they can comprehend, antsy?====MARY: birth?
FROM DAZ IN COLORADO: There are two people here who very much believe that.====JACK: ...and it's more than just about the weather, isn't it?
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: No doubt the long winter helps to make the spring so beautiful. By the way, it is predicted to be in the 70s today, but it will get colder tomorrow ( 50s) in Florida.====JACK: One thing I like about a deep snow cover is that it holds moisture that the earth needs for the grass and the flowers. I'll take the 50s.
FROM DC IN KANSAS: I saw this in KOS --
A picture of Pope Francis with these words:(every other line was larger print -- so I made it bold face)
The promise was that
when the glass was full, it would overflow
benefiting the poor.
But what happens instead is that when the glass if full
it magically gets bigger
nothing ever comes out for the poor
====JACK: Some people are getting uneasy when the Pope talks about the haves helping the have-nots.
FROM HY YO SILVER: Amen====JACK: I'm glad that we're on the same page.
FROM MW IN ILLINOIS: Our front yard is 3 feet deep with snow, glad we don't have to shovel. Saddlebrook is always here early removing the snow, they do a great job. Dick has to get out with his shovel, clears the snow from the porch & deck doors, this has been the worst here in many years, I'M READY FOR SPRING!!!!====JACK: Winter is a prelude to spring, sort of like life is a preparation for eternal life. One hymn puts it this way: "Earth is but a desert (a snowdrift) drear, heaven is my home.
FROM JK IN CALIFORNIA: Thanks, I needed that***====JACK: Actually, I pray before sending out Winning Words that they might be of help to someone. ====JK: They really help me and I read them every day*****
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL!====JACK: I've seen dogs and kids roll in the snow, but not a grown man.
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: A great winning word for a cold cold day – thanks for the word and for your excellent comment!====JACK: I learned that Bible verse from a chaplain who repeated it when he went from bed to bed in Chicago's Cook County Hospital, visiting patients from the infamous Skid Row.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: a friend & i were saying how beautiful & bug-free the spring will be! ====JACK: I'm reminded of the poem by Ogden Nash..."God in his wisdom made the fly And then forgot to tell us why." Just as we each have a purpose, I suppose that each bug has a purpose, too. But some bugs bug me.====LIZ: they are a delight on the bird smorgasbord, if nothing else.====JACK: That's a purpose, of course. I suppose a bug might ask, "What is the purpose of humans?"====LIZ: a mosquito knows...====JACK: You're right! We're a part of that "buzzer's" food chain.
FROM PZ IN MICHIGAN: Thank you for a refreshing perspective on how to view this chilly taste of Mother Nature! It helps!====JACK: This morning at the meeting of the Optimist Club, we heard a mother tell about how she is dealing with the "winter" in her life, the tragic death of her 16 year old son. While the temperature will eventually warm up and the snow will melt, the memory of the winter remains.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: SO TRUE! TALKING OF BUGS IN ;YOUR BLOG, I HAVE A COLORED SKETCH OF NOAH'S ARK PAINTED ON WOOD IN MY KITCHEN WHICH SAYS, "IF NOAH HAD BEEN TRULY WISE, HE WOULD HAVE SWATTED THOSE TWO FLIES!" AND I SUPPOSE THERE IS SOME REASON FOR THE EXISTENCE OF MOSQUITOES, BUT WHAT??!! :-) ASIDE FROM FOOD FOR THE PURPLE MARTINS.! AH WELL, OUR TIMES OF COLD WINTERS (-7 HERE, SCHOOLS CLOSED, ETC.) AND ADVERSITY CERTAINLY DO MAKE THE OPPOSITE TIMES SWEETER!! GOOD WW FOR TODAY! IT WAS A DECENT DAY FOR A CWU BOARD MEETING AND PLAYING BRIDGE.====JACK: I happen to believer that the Creator creates for a reason. We can do our second guessing, but until we've walked in his shoes...(Does God wear shoes?) There is so much that is yet for us to understand.====OAKS: ISN'T THAT THE TRUTH...WE ARE NOT GIVEN MUCH IN DETAILS. AS YOUR OLD PROFESSOR SAID, "YOU CANT UNSCREW THE INSCRUTABLE"!~! I OFTEN WISH WE COULD! BUT THAT WOULD TAKE AWAY THE MYSTERY. WE NEED THE 'LARGER" GOD...
FROM DB IN MICHIGAN: Thank you Jack! That is so sweet!====JACK: I remember a basketball player who would call out "sweet" when he sank a long one. Thanks for your sweet response.
Monday, January 27, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/27/14
“Criticizing others can protect the ego; respecting others can be educational.” (Australian Wisdom) Yesterday was Australia Day “down under.” An editorial in one of their newspapers indicates that some of the Aussies (like some Americans) have lost the meaning of respect. I was taught that you respect the flag…and people who do things to improve society. What is it that you and I can do to be more respectful today? ;-) Jack
FROM TRIHARDER: Yes. Like making fun of others or making jokes at the expense of others. ====JACK: Did you mean to include a "not" in there? ...or not?====TH: "Can protect the ego".;JACK: I was focusing on the last half of the quote. Sometimes in life, we don't consider at the total picture. ====TH: And I was focusing on my own behavior over the years -- Humor that often made fun of others (not behind their backs) -- hopefully not in a malicious way. I hope I never hurt anyone, but I'm quite sure it did sometimes. Now, it tends to be more self-deprecating humor. ====JACK: I notice that it is often the bane of clever people....seeing something as funny in their own eyes, but not understanding that it might seem "not so funny" to someone else.
FROM TARMART REV: GIVE THANKS with a grateful heart.Give thanks to the Holy One. Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son. And now let the weak say 'I am strong,' Let the poor say 'I am rich,' Because of what the Lord has done for us. Give thanks.
Someone once told me, "Cheer up for things could be worse . . . so, I did and they were.====JACK: There are soooo many "blessings" that we take for granted. Martin Luther, in his explanation of the 10 Commandments, states the reason for obeying each one of the commandments by saying, "We should fear and love God, so that we....Have no other gods before him." etc.====REV: Good word and thought...take time today to be blessed in yours...in Minnesota this morning, I'm blessed for a heated home!!====JACK: The newspaper today tells of the power cut off for a home with small children because of non-payment of the electric bill. It goes on to describe where help can be found. ====REV: Salvation Army reports doubling of the prescribed budget for heat and electricity this winter...our seven offerings for them during our annual Christmas musical added $26,000 to the budget needs...they reported $50,000 increase in this Christmas bell-ringing effort . . . I'm assuming it will go fast for additional expense towards shelter and heat. Thankful for God reaching out through various folk to team up and help others in their time of need. ====JACK: This world is a better place because of caring people.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: It seems to me we are more disrespectful when we're in a hurry...rude in conversation, discourteous while driving, curt while shopping...all because we are rushing. I know I'm guilty. Perhaps we would be more respectful of others if we slow down a bit.====JACK: I don't know who it was, but someone said, "I gotta slow down. My feet's movin' too fast."====RI: We'd be better off if we always made sure our brain was working faster than the rest of our body.====JACK: It's like driving a stick-shift. Put brain in gear before letting out the clutch (taking action).
FROM HR IN MICHIGAN: What a timely quote. I have a meeting tonight, respecting others can also twist you up in knots I do my best to follow this advice.====JACK: To gain any respect for yourself, you must, first of all, be respectful of others. Sometimes, easier said than done....but do it, anyway.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: With all of the joshing and "chain-pulling" I do to you, I still respect you.====JACK: Of course, you've seen my disrespectful side, too. Thanks for hanging in there.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Philosopher Jean de La Bruyere claims "Mockery is often the result of a poverty of wit", but then Ezra Pound, (quoted in the new Yorker) said, "I have not met anyone worth a damn who was not irascible"...So hopefully the witty, ascerbic people will stop short of disrespect, but keep us entertained....I'm amazed at how disrespectful we have gotten to the President of our country, and almost all political leaders, etc. It used to be that high office and leaders were accorded at least outwardly, a certain respect. Treating people, (such as the homeless we deal with,) with respect and some dignity is certainly needed! Many minority people feel a decided lack of respect from most people. We could use a lot of improvement becoming "educated" by respect!====JACK: What I've noticed is how people have come to "demand" respect. I see especially in sports..."He didn't respect me!" There have even been shootings where the "perp" said..."He didn't respect me." Maybe there's a "street" meaning of the word that has passed me by.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.====JACK: Ellen DeGeneres often says: " Back attcha." when she wants to return a compliment.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: Respect for..... I'm with those . who say that first one should respect oneself and respecting/loving others will follow.If first we respect ourselves, them we will be more likely to be comfortable respecting others.====JACK: ....which brings us back to, What is respect?
“Criticizing others can protect the ego; respecting others can be educational.” (Australian Wisdom) Yesterday was Australia Day “down under.” An editorial in one of their newspapers indicates that some of the Aussies (like some Americans) have lost the meaning of respect. I was taught that you respect the flag…and people who do things to improve society. What is it that you and I can do to be more respectful today? ;-) Jack
FROM TRIHARDER: Yes. Like making fun of others or making jokes at the expense of others. ====JACK: Did you mean to include a "not" in there? ...or not?====TH: "Can protect the ego".;JACK: I was focusing on the last half of the quote. Sometimes in life, we don't consider at the total picture. ====TH: And I was focusing on my own behavior over the years -- Humor that often made fun of others (not behind their backs) -- hopefully not in a malicious way. I hope I never hurt anyone, but I'm quite sure it did sometimes. Now, it tends to be more self-deprecating humor. ====JACK: I notice that it is often the bane of clever people....seeing something as funny in their own eyes, but not understanding that it might seem "not so funny" to someone else.
FROM TARMART REV: GIVE THANKS with a grateful heart.Give thanks to the Holy One. Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son. And now let the weak say 'I am strong,' Let the poor say 'I am rich,' Because of what the Lord has done for us. Give thanks.
Someone once told me, "Cheer up for things could be worse . . . so, I did and they were.====JACK: There are soooo many "blessings" that we take for granted. Martin Luther, in his explanation of the 10 Commandments, states the reason for obeying each one of the commandments by saying, "We should fear and love God, so that we....Have no other gods before him." etc.====REV: Good word and thought...take time today to be blessed in yours...in Minnesota this morning, I'm blessed for a heated home!!====JACK: The newspaper today tells of the power cut off for a home with small children because of non-payment of the electric bill. It goes on to describe where help can be found. ====REV: Salvation Army reports doubling of the prescribed budget for heat and electricity this winter...our seven offerings for them during our annual Christmas musical added $26,000 to the budget needs...they reported $50,000 increase in this Christmas bell-ringing effort . . . I'm assuming it will go fast for additional expense towards shelter and heat. Thankful for God reaching out through various folk to team up and help others in their time of need. ====JACK: This world is a better place because of caring people.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: It seems to me we are more disrespectful when we're in a hurry...rude in conversation, discourteous while driving, curt while shopping...all because we are rushing. I know I'm guilty. Perhaps we would be more respectful of others if we slow down a bit.====JACK: I don't know who it was, but someone said, "I gotta slow down. My feet's movin' too fast."====RI: We'd be better off if we always made sure our brain was working faster than the rest of our body.====JACK: It's like driving a stick-shift. Put brain in gear before letting out the clutch (taking action).
FROM HR IN MICHIGAN: What a timely quote. I have a meeting tonight, respecting others can also twist you up in knots I do my best to follow this advice.====JACK: To gain any respect for yourself, you must, first of all, be respectful of others. Sometimes, easier said than done....but do it, anyway.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: With all of the joshing and "chain-pulling" I do to you, I still respect you.====JACK: Of course, you've seen my disrespectful side, too. Thanks for hanging in there.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Philosopher Jean de La Bruyere claims "Mockery is often the result of a poverty of wit", but then Ezra Pound, (quoted in the new Yorker) said, "I have not met anyone worth a damn who was not irascible"...So hopefully the witty, ascerbic people will stop short of disrespect, but keep us entertained....I'm amazed at how disrespectful we have gotten to the President of our country, and almost all political leaders, etc. It used to be that high office and leaders were accorded at least outwardly, a certain respect. Treating people, (such as the homeless we deal with,) with respect and some dignity is certainly needed! Many minority people feel a decided lack of respect from most people. We could use a lot of improvement becoming "educated" by respect!====JACK: What I've noticed is how people have come to "demand" respect. I see especially in sports..."He didn't respect me!" There have even been shootings where the "perp" said..."He didn't respect me." Maybe there's a "street" meaning of the word that has passed me by.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.====JACK: Ellen DeGeneres often says: " Back attcha." when she wants to return a compliment.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: Respect for..... I'm with those . who say that first one should respect oneself and respecting/loving others will follow.If first we respect ourselves, them we will be more likely to be comfortable respecting others.====JACK: ....which brings us back to, What is respect?
Friday, January 24, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/24/14
“Joy, temperance and repose slam the door on the doctor’s nose.” (Longfellow) Where did you first hear this quote, “All things in moderation!”? Aristotle? Franklin? Twain? Your Mom? I remember it as advice from my doctor. Many of society’s ills are related to over-indulgence, be it food, drink, spending. Here’s some cutting back advice: List what you really want in life; eat healthy meals; and--take a bubble bath. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: ...but don't put bubble bath in a Jacuzzi bathtub . . . the bubbles just keep coming . . . .been there and down that!!====JACK: Some of society's ills might be attributed to spending too much time taking bubble baths.
FROM JAN IN MICHIGAN: My college roommate used to say, “Everything in moderation, including moderation” (meaning, go a little crazy sometimes). She was the daughter of an Episcopal minister, but I don’t know that she got that saying from him. ;-) I think that was just college-kid advice. Of course, now that I have a senior in high school, I’m not quite as fond of that type of college-kid advice.====JACK: When my mother was in her 90s she said, "Now that I'm old I can enjoy eating whatever I please. Please pass the bacon!" One of the things parents can share with their children is a sense of humor. I think that the "moderation of moderation" is a good story to share with your college kid. ====JF: My husband and I are really hoping that Ben chooses Hope College. They start the school year with a “Root-Beer Kegger”. ====JACK: They probably have mandatory chapel, too. I remember having it at Augustana, and we heard some pretty good messages, too. But, there's something about "mandatory" that strikes a sour note in our world today.
FROM PW IN MICHIGAN: I can only think of one exception to this maxim, Jack - "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as serving the Lord and not men, for it is from the Lord that you receive your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." (Colossians 3:23-24) No moderation in seeking to serve the Lord in all things!====JACK: Thanks for reminding me that there always seems to be an exception to the rule. Now, go and take your bubble bath!
FROM NO IN MICHIGAN: This one is a keeper! I love so many, but this one really touches my life. Thank you.====JACK: In seminary, we were taught, "In sermons, connect the Bible text with the daily life of the people." I guess it works for Winning Words, too.
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: It all seems to come down to PRIDE. Unfortunately I'm guilty of that. ====JACK: Losses have a way of deflating pride. That's why I was pleased to see Alabama and Ohio State lose a couple of football games. God has a way keeping us humble, too.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Ah, moderation the Nirvana of the boring. Moderately successful, moderately at peace, moderately overweight, moderately knowledgeable, politically moderate, can make you moderately interesting to talk to. All these calls for moderation seem extreme to me. What great thing was ever accomplished by moderate men or women? For food, though you may be spot on… However I did not lose 57 pounds "moderating" it requires an energy/calorie deficit for a seemingly extreme period of time (660 days for me). Have a great day Pastor. Love Longfellow, have some of his very old books. ====JACK: Perhaps I was wrong is using "moderation" in place of Longfellow's "temperance." Perhaps it was Prohibition that caused temperance to lose its "style."
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Use it up. Wear it out. Make it do, Or do without.====JACK: That sounds like a saying from the days of The Great Depression.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: I laughed when I saw your advice. If I could get into and out of a bathtub I would. This is a saying I heard a lot from all of the doctors I have been to and probably my parents also. Did I heed it? Sometimes!====JACK: You might skip the advice of others, but pay attention to this warning...."Never play leap-frog with a unicorn."
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: my mom stressed everything in moderation. good advice that still allows for fun. ====JACK: Good moms usually give good advice.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Loved these WW; however Outhouse Judy has a point...for us elderly, it is much easier to step into a hot shower! :-) I think moderation is an excellent word in most cases; in the case of having a rip-roaring good time (sans drugs or alcohol) let the good times roll!! Laugh til you cry, shout and sing! :-) Robert Frost once said, "The middle of the road is where the white line is---and that's the worst place to drive!" Anyway, Longfellow's is a good quote to remember. Thanks! The arctic wind is whining around my eaves, tho temp. is 22...not "moderate" weather here in Illinois!====JACK: I'm looking for moderation in the temperature, but the thermometer continues to stay around the zero mark.
“Joy, temperance and repose slam the door on the doctor’s nose.” (Longfellow) Where did you first hear this quote, “All things in moderation!”? Aristotle? Franklin? Twain? Your Mom? I remember it as advice from my doctor. Many of society’s ills are related to over-indulgence, be it food, drink, spending. Here’s some cutting back advice: List what you really want in life; eat healthy meals; and--take a bubble bath. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: ...but don't put bubble bath in a Jacuzzi bathtub . . . the bubbles just keep coming . . . .been there and down that!!====JACK: Some of society's ills might be attributed to spending too much time taking bubble baths.
FROM JAN IN MICHIGAN: My college roommate used to say, “Everything in moderation, including moderation” (meaning, go a little crazy sometimes). She was the daughter of an Episcopal minister, but I don’t know that she got that saying from him. ;-) I think that was just college-kid advice. Of course, now that I have a senior in high school, I’m not quite as fond of that type of college-kid advice.====JACK: When my mother was in her 90s she said, "Now that I'm old I can enjoy eating whatever I please. Please pass the bacon!" One of the things parents can share with their children is a sense of humor. I think that the "moderation of moderation" is a good story to share with your college kid. ====JF: My husband and I are really hoping that Ben chooses Hope College. They start the school year with a “Root-Beer Kegger”. ====JACK: They probably have mandatory chapel, too. I remember having it at Augustana, and we heard some pretty good messages, too. But, there's something about "mandatory" that strikes a sour note in our world today.
FROM PW IN MICHIGAN: I can only think of one exception to this maxim, Jack - "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as serving the Lord and not men, for it is from the Lord that you receive your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." (Colossians 3:23-24) No moderation in seeking to serve the Lord in all things!====JACK: Thanks for reminding me that there always seems to be an exception to the rule. Now, go and take your bubble bath!
FROM NO IN MICHIGAN: This one is a keeper! I love so many, but this one really touches my life. Thank you.====JACK: In seminary, we were taught, "In sermons, connect the Bible text with the daily life of the people." I guess it works for Winning Words, too.
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: It all seems to come down to PRIDE. Unfortunately I'm guilty of that. ====JACK: Losses have a way of deflating pride. That's why I was pleased to see Alabama and Ohio State lose a couple of football games. God has a way keeping us humble, too.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Ah, moderation the Nirvana of the boring. Moderately successful, moderately at peace, moderately overweight, moderately knowledgeable, politically moderate, can make you moderately interesting to talk to. All these calls for moderation seem extreme to me. What great thing was ever accomplished by moderate men or women? For food, though you may be spot on… However I did not lose 57 pounds "moderating" it requires an energy/calorie deficit for a seemingly extreme period of time (660 days for me). Have a great day Pastor. Love Longfellow, have some of his very old books. ====JACK: Perhaps I was wrong is using "moderation" in place of Longfellow's "temperance." Perhaps it was Prohibition that caused temperance to lose its "style."
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Use it up. Wear it out. Make it do, Or do without.====JACK: That sounds like a saying from the days of The Great Depression.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: I laughed when I saw your advice. If I could get into and out of a bathtub I would. This is a saying I heard a lot from all of the doctors I have been to and probably my parents also. Did I heed it? Sometimes!====JACK: You might skip the advice of others, but pay attention to this warning...."Never play leap-frog with a unicorn."
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: my mom stressed everything in moderation. good advice that still allows for fun. ====JACK: Good moms usually give good advice.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Loved these WW; however Outhouse Judy has a point...for us elderly, it is much easier to step into a hot shower! :-) I think moderation is an excellent word in most cases; in the case of having a rip-roaring good time (sans drugs or alcohol) let the good times roll!! Laugh til you cry, shout and sing! :-) Robert Frost once said, "The middle of the road is where the white line is---and that's the worst place to drive!" Anyway, Longfellow's is a good quote to remember. Thanks! The arctic wind is whining around my eaves, tho temp. is 22...not "moderate" weather here in Illinois!====JACK: I'm looking for moderation in the temperature, but the thermometer continues to stay around the zero mark.
Thursday, January 23, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/23/14
“If we continue to develop our technology without wisdom or prudence, our servant may prove to be our executioner.” (Omar Bradley) Prudence means, being cautious. 53 years ago, in his farewell speech as President, Eisenhower warned the nation to be cautious about the influence of the military-industrial complex. Wise advice from a former army general. Not being prudent can cause many kinds of problems. ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: Sometimes that military-industrial complex statement is misunderstood Eisenhower meant the military and the in industry that supports the military of course that is exactly what the Reagan revolution is about building up both of those.====JACK: People believe what they think they understand about the Bible and religion, too.
FROM TRIHARDER: The Terminator.====JACK: Do you mean that Ike was warning us about the coming of Arnold Schwarzenegger?====TH: Yes! And HG Wells. And George Orwell and Stanley Kubrick's 2001 Space Odyssey, The Matrix====JACK: Don't forget the bogeyman.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: A good example is the IRS and the phone and email messages. That's frightening. I don't have anything to say that would cause national alarms to go off, but this is still a free country. Our whole way of life has changed for the better and for the worst, with cellphones and computers. ====JACK: You were raised in a time when "privy" really meant privy.====JUDY: Well, not really but I did use one all the time at Girl Scout Camp. That was when Girl Scouts learned how to live with nature. Now Girl Scouts learn vocations. It's a lot different. Times change things but not always for the better. I think kids aren't giving enough "Kid Time": just for fun time! It's organized groups now not just someone coming up to the door and yelling "Judy Judy" come out and play.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: An interesting article in this week's The Economist regarding the potentially dire, if relatively temporary, consequences ever-improving, advancing technological advances portend....as job displacement did in the Industrial Revolution and what we witness to virtually every day. Can prudence and wisdom,if they really exist in this arena, stem the tide or....My bet is that we have no choice but to "go with the flow"...and become...====JACK: So, you read the Economist, too? Great magazine! I was interested in the article on the Future of Jobs and a comparison with the Luddites of the Industrial Revolution.
FROM BM IN MICHIGAN: Like spying on our allies’ leaders cell phones?====JACK: I suppose it's necessary to keep some things secret. It happens in many areas of life. There's a need for a military-industrial complex. Just be cautious. There is a need for secrecy. Just be cautious.
FROM TARMART REV: "Prudence" . . . from the pulpit throughout the pews!!====JACK: Not being prudent in your preaching can be perilous.====REV: A "precious pontificate proclamation!"
FROM PH IN MESA: Read the book Washington Rules by Andrew Basevich (spell?) the military industrial complex that Ike warned about is here, I fear.====JACK: It won't go away, because it means jobs, and congressmen are unwilling to sacrifice jobs in their district for "a cause."
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: If the technology can be used to make a better world, that would be the ideal. It is an amazing world in which we live and must learn to adapt. My OLLI class today was about Nikola Tesla, most of which I don.t understand about AC and DC currency, but his life and work are very interesting.====JACK: I wonder how many people know the significance of the name of the Tesla electric automobile?
“If we continue to develop our technology without wisdom or prudence, our servant may prove to be our executioner.” (Omar Bradley) Prudence means, being cautious. 53 years ago, in his farewell speech as President, Eisenhower warned the nation to be cautious about the influence of the military-industrial complex. Wise advice from a former army general. Not being prudent can cause many kinds of problems. ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: Sometimes that military-industrial complex statement is misunderstood Eisenhower meant the military and the in industry that supports the military of course that is exactly what the Reagan revolution is about building up both of those.====JACK: People believe what they think they understand about the Bible and religion, too.
FROM TRIHARDER: The Terminator.====JACK: Do you mean that Ike was warning us about the coming of Arnold Schwarzenegger?====TH: Yes! And HG Wells. And George Orwell and Stanley Kubrick's 2001 Space Odyssey, The Matrix====JACK: Don't forget the bogeyman.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: A good example is the IRS and the phone and email messages. That's frightening. I don't have anything to say that would cause national alarms to go off, but this is still a free country. Our whole way of life has changed for the better and for the worst, with cellphones and computers. ====JACK: You were raised in a time when "privy" really meant privy.====JUDY: Well, not really but I did use one all the time at Girl Scout Camp. That was when Girl Scouts learned how to live with nature. Now Girl Scouts learn vocations. It's a lot different. Times change things but not always for the better. I think kids aren't giving enough "Kid Time": just for fun time! It's organized groups now not just someone coming up to the door and yelling "Judy Judy" come out and play.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: An interesting article in this week's The Economist regarding the potentially dire, if relatively temporary, consequences ever-improving, advancing technological advances portend....as job displacement did in the Industrial Revolution and what we witness to virtually every day. Can prudence and wisdom,if they really exist in this arena, stem the tide or....My bet is that we have no choice but to "go with the flow"...and become...====JACK: So, you read the Economist, too? Great magazine! I was interested in the article on the Future of Jobs and a comparison with the Luddites of the Industrial Revolution.
FROM BM IN MICHIGAN: Like spying on our allies’ leaders cell phones?====JACK: I suppose it's necessary to keep some things secret. It happens in many areas of life. There's a need for a military-industrial complex. Just be cautious. There is a need for secrecy. Just be cautious.
FROM TARMART REV: "Prudence" . . . from the pulpit throughout the pews!!====JACK: Not being prudent in your preaching can be perilous.====REV: A "precious pontificate proclamation!"
FROM PH IN MESA: Read the book Washington Rules by Andrew Basevich (spell?) the military industrial complex that Ike warned about is here, I fear.====JACK: It won't go away, because it means jobs, and congressmen are unwilling to sacrifice jobs in their district for "a cause."
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: If the technology can be used to make a better world, that would be the ideal. It is an amazing world in which we live and must learn to adapt. My OLLI class today was about Nikola Tesla, most of which I don.t understand about AC and DC currency, but his life and work are very interesting.====JACK: I wonder how many people know the significance of the name of the Tesla electric automobile?
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/22/14
“My judicial philosophy is fidelity to the law.” (Sonia Sotomayor) This quote came when S.S. was being quizzed about her fitness to be a Supreme Court justice. Is there any quality better for a judge than being faithful to the law? There are other situations, too, where faithfulness is a virtue. In the marketplace, in marriage, in every occasion when we put our trust in people. The USMC slogan is “Semper Fildelis.” ;-) Jack
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: I like Sonia.====JACK: She comes across as a real person. Each of us is really "real." We just don't always show it.
FROM TARMART REV: Good comment and advice to start my day with, Jack . . . thank you!! ====JACK: West Bloomfield Patch, an internet news provider, calls Jack's Winning Words, "ruminations," whatever that means.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: IMO, Wisdom and discernment in law are, more than, or at least equally as important as "fidelity in law". That is why we have judges and courts of equity. The equitable thing to do seldom can be adequately delineated by written laws. Where there is wisdom and discernment, I'd presume fidelity would be in abundance. The test is when the fidelity we profess for a set of laws, or a cause is at odds with the crowd, or the money, or the prevailing vision of the currently anointed powers. It is very hard to live a professed fidelity without some common sense and discernment.====JACK: The Law (even the 10 Commandments) is subject to interpretation. So, I guess Sonia's statement can be interpreted, too.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: As a Marine, how can I argue that? I have a Marine buddy who was always being teased by a Navy friend... until he retorted with, "I was going to join the Navy, but then I always would have wondered if I could have made it as a Marine." The razzing stopped. Not the subject of WW today, but a good Marine story.====JACK: As I wrote today's words, I knew that some Semper Fi guy would respond.====PFC: And I was Faithful!====JACK: Just like an old dog.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I will always remember one of the people who spoke about Nelson Mandela on one of the News Hour programs, after he died, that Mandela always found "law" to be a pivotal part of a society's working. Even though he was judged and sentenced and served all that time in jail, he still believed somehow that the "law" is a pivotal part of a society's working and never became an anarchist or someone who became finally someone that believed it was the prerogative of the individual to make "law". The person who gives the message can be more powerful when he has suffered like that for his deepest hope and faith and belief in the wisdom of law and actually outlast bad law.====JACK: I've always appreciated Martin Luther's interpretation of the 10 Commandments in his Small Catechism. He explains them, both from negative "You shall not" and the positive, "You shall."
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I admire Judge Sotomayor, and all I've read of her seem to point to a really genuine person. I trust her judgment! I ran across this quote from Abe Lincoln:"I have always found that Mercy bears richer fruits than strict justice." It was in The Wall Street Journal....:-) Which reminds me of the definitions I posted on my computer desk: JUSTICE: When you get what you deserve. MERCY: When you don't get what you deserve. GRACE: When you get what you don't deserve. God's Grace, Greater than all our sin, as the old hymn goes.====JACK: The closest that law comes to grace are the commutation powers given to governors and to the President. When they are used, there are some who complain, because they see it as circumventing punishment. Isn't that what grace is?
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Profound words for this day and age...Where is Nuclear Power going to take us? It could do so much, used in our domestic lives, but the scary possibility of annihilation due to a careless button pressed, or rash judgment from a nation's leaders is ever present. Our world has gotten so small, due to technology and instant worldwide news that dire situations seem to happen almost daily! Wisdom and Prudence: two good traits to develop and practice, for sure!====JACK: Off the subject, but on the subject...Do you remember sisters, Patience and Prudence, who are famous for singing, "Tonight You Belong To Me"? They're called "the one-hit wonders," because that was their only hit song. Did you ever know anyone named, Prudence or Patience? Faith, Hope and Charity also used to be used as names for girls.
“My judicial philosophy is fidelity to the law.” (Sonia Sotomayor) This quote came when S.S. was being quizzed about her fitness to be a Supreme Court justice. Is there any quality better for a judge than being faithful to the law? There are other situations, too, where faithfulness is a virtue. In the marketplace, in marriage, in every occasion when we put our trust in people. The USMC slogan is “Semper Fildelis.” ;-) Jack
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: I like Sonia.====JACK: She comes across as a real person. Each of us is really "real." We just don't always show it.
FROM TARMART REV: Good comment and advice to start my day with, Jack . . . thank you!! ====JACK: West Bloomfield Patch, an internet news provider, calls Jack's Winning Words, "ruminations," whatever that means.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: IMO, Wisdom and discernment in law are, more than, or at least equally as important as "fidelity in law". That is why we have judges and courts of equity. The equitable thing to do seldom can be adequately delineated by written laws. Where there is wisdom and discernment, I'd presume fidelity would be in abundance. The test is when the fidelity we profess for a set of laws, or a cause is at odds with the crowd, or the money, or the prevailing vision of the currently anointed powers. It is very hard to live a professed fidelity without some common sense and discernment.====JACK: The Law (even the 10 Commandments) is subject to interpretation. So, I guess Sonia's statement can be interpreted, too.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: As a Marine, how can I argue that? I have a Marine buddy who was always being teased by a Navy friend... until he retorted with, "I was going to join the Navy, but then I always would have wondered if I could have made it as a Marine." The razzing stopped. Not the subject of WW today, but a good Marine story.====JACK: As I wrote today's words, I knew that some Semper Fi guy would respond.====PFC: And I was Faithful!====JACK: Just like an old dog.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I will always remember one of the people who spoke about Nelson Mandela on one of the News Hour programs, after he died, that Mandela always found "law" to be a pivotal part of a society's working. Even though he was judged and sentenced and served all that time in jail, he still believed somehow that the "law" is a pivotal part of a society's working and never became an anarchist or someone who became finally someone that believed it was the prerogative of the individual to make "law". The person who gives the message can be more powerful when he has suffered like that for his deepest hope and faith and belief in the wisdom of law and actually outlast bad law.====JACK: I've always appreciated Martin Luther's interpretation of the 10 Commandments in his Small Catechism. He explains them, both from negative "You shall not" and the positive, "You shall."
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I admire Judge Sotomayor, and all I've read of her seem to point to a really genuine person. I trust her judgment! I ran across this quote from Abe Lincoln:"I have always found that Mercy bears richer fruits than strict justice." It was in The Wall Street Journal....:-) Which reminds me of the definitions I posted on my computer desk: JUSTICE: When you get what you deserve. MERCY: When you don't get what you deserve. GRACE: When you get what you don't deserve. God's Grace, Greater than all our sin, as the old hymn goes.====JACK: The closest that law comes to grace are the commutation powers given to governors and to the President. When they are used, there are some who complain, because they see it as circumventing punishment. Isn't that what grace is?
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Profound words for this day and age...Where is Nuclear Power going to take us? It could do so much, used in our domestic lives, but the scary possibility of annihilation due to a careless button pressed, or rash judgment from a nation's leaders is ever present. Our world has gotten so small, due to technology and instant worldwide news that dire situations seem to happen almost daily! Wisdom and Prudence: two good traits to develop and practice, for sure!====JACK: Off the subject, but on the subject...Do you remember sisters, Patience and Prudence, who are famous for singing, "Tonight You Belong To Me"? They're called "the one-hit wonders," because that was their only hit song. Did you ever know anyone named, Prudence or Patience? Faith, Hope and Charity also used to be used as names for girls.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/21/14
“For me, politeness is the sine qua non of civilization.” (Robert A. Heinlein) Another virtue in the Great Virtues book is, politeness. I read that NYC is the politest city in the world. London comes in 15th. Some Canadian police depts are giving out ”polite tickets” to courteous motorists. It might be interesting to make note today of common courtesies that you see. What “manners” can you remember being taught in your home? ;-) Jack
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: Isn't it interesting that if you interchange the letter "t" in polite and the letter "c" in police, then you end up with polite? Could that mean we should police or "ticket" rudeness? mmm .====JACK:. Is honking the car horn a sign of rudeness, or a polite way of pointing out someone else's rudeness?
FROM TARMART REV: "Giving God thanks before eating"; "Respecting adults and authorities"; "Honoring the 10 Commandments"; "Do unto others as you would want to be treated." . . . off the top of my head this early in the morning.====JACK: It's no wonder that you turned out the way you did. When did you become "the little preacher boy?"
FROM HY YO SILVER: Classic
FROM HR IN MICHIGAN: The author says that politeness alone is not enough. while it is important to be polite you can still be without morals or scruples. He uses as an example the politeness that the nazi guards would exhibit to their prisoners while being escorted to the gas chambers.====JACK: I think that he called them, Polite Bastards. In fact, he used the "B" word frequently throughout the book. I wonder why? ====HR: BTW, I read the NY TIMES review when it was first published in 2001, I think. It received a glowing review. The critic felt that Comte-Sponville did a great job of making philosophy accessible and of writing a book that was good guidance on living a moral life. Easier said...
FROM BFC IN MICHIGAN: What's sine qua non mean?====JACK: Politeness is "the essence" of civilization. There is no cilization without politeness.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: If you can't say something nice about someone, don't say anything at all. ====JACK: There were many like that. A Swedish one that I heard was "Tyst med du." Be quiet.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: i despair if nyc is truly the most polite city. even chicago is better. ====JACK: I don't trust polls, but like to read them.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Kindness tops politeness in my book, but of course a kind person is probably also polite! I'm surprised that that NYC is # 1 in that category! We were discouraged from demeaning talk about others, or each other, said grace at meals, were taught to consider others' feelings etc. in our generation we had no Facebook or Twittering anonymously. Children were taught to respect authority and their elders. I wouldn't have dared to sass my parents, as I recall! We used to be more "polite" didn't we? As a Society, I mean....====JACK: Politeness means nothing when it comes from an unkind person.
FROM KF IN MICHIGAN: Pretty much I remember manners coming first beyond all else! Have you perused George Washington's Rules of Civility & Decent Behaviour? It is interesting and relevant! (I'd be happy to lend you our copy if you'd like : ) Wish I had a few hundred copies to pass around!
“For me, politeness is the sine qua non of civilization.” (Robert A. Heinlein) Another virtue in the Great Virtues book is, politeness. I read that NYC is the politest city in the world. London comes in 15th. Some Canadian police depts are giving out ”polite tickets” to courteous motorists. It might be interesting to make note today of common courtesies that you see. What “manners” can you remember being taught in your home? ;-) Jack
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: Isn't it interesting that if you interchange the letter "t" in polite and the letter "c" in police, then you end up with polite? Could that mean we should police or "ticket" rudeness? mmm .====JACK:. Is honking the car horn a sign of rudeness, or a polite way of pointing out someone else's rudeness?
FROM TARMART REV: "Giving God thanks before eating"; "Respecting adults and authorities"; "Honoring the 10 Commandments"; "Do unto others as you would want to be treated." . . . off the top of my head this early in the morning.====JACK: It's no wonder that you turned out the way you did. When did you become "the little preacher boy?"
FROM HY YO SILVER: Classic
FROM HR IN MICHIGAN: The author says that politeness alone is not enough. while it is important to be polite you can still be without morals or scruples. He uses as an example the politeness that the nazi guards would exhibit to their prisoners while being escorted to the gas chambers.====JACK: I think that he called them, Polite Bastards. In fact, he used the "B" word frequently throughout the book. I wonder why? ====HR: BTW, I read the NY TIMES review when it was first published in 2001, I think. It received a glowing review. The critic felt that Comte-Sponville did a great job of making philosophy accessible and of writing a book that was good guidance on living a moral life. Easier said...
FROM BFC IN MICHIGAN: What's sine qua non mean?====JACK: Politeness is "the essence" of civilization. There is no cilization without politeness.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: If you can't say something nice about someone, don't say anything at all. ====JACK: There were many like that. A Swedish one that I heard was "Tyst med du." Be quiet.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: i despair if nyc is truly the most polite city. even chicago is better. ====JACK: I don't trust polls, but like to read them.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Kindness tops politeness in my book, but of course a kind person is probably also polite! I'm surprised that that NYC is # 1 in that category! We were discouraged from demeaning talk about others, or each other, said grace at meals, were taught to consider others' feelings etc. in our generation we had no Facebook or Twittering anonymously. Children were taught to respect authority and their elders. I wouldn't have dared to sass my parents, as I recall! We used to be more "polite" didn't we? As a Society, I mean....====JACK: Politeness means nothing when it comes from an unkind person.
FROM KF IN MICHIGAN: Pretty much I remember manners coming first beyond all else! Have you perused George Washington's Rules of Civility & Decent Behaviour? It is interesting and relevant! (I'd be happy to lend you our copy if you'd like : ) Wish I had a few hundred copies to pass around!
Monday, January 20, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/20/14
“Courage is being afraid, but going on anyhow.” (Dan Rather) I’m currently reading “A Small Treatise on Great Virtues.” One virtue listed is, Courage. No one could deny that it took courage for MLK Jr to lead the Civil Rights Movement….lynchings, beatings, bombings, jail-time. Yet, he pressed on, in spite of danger. Today is not only a time for remembering, but a time for us to courageously stand up for that which is right. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: Can even run parallel with being a pastor in a community or world that no longer enjoys having "In God We Trust" life position . . . but pluralistic notions of what life is all about apart from our Jewish//Christian founding tradition. ====JACK: Celebrate the fact that you live in a country where people are free to practice their religious beliefs...whatever they might be. Some people shop at Walmart, some at Target, and some stay home.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: Glad we have the opportunity to remember and celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. in our community. In a couple of hours we'll be walking and singing and then hearing some speeches and presentations to help us keep on standing up for that which is right, for the dream that MLK lifted up for all of us.====JACK: A march begins with the first step. And, sometimes, that step involves courage.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: I'd be afraid to jump off the Brooklyn Bridge, and I'll be damned if I'd do it anyhow. Don't mistake courage for stupidity====JACK: As with MLK Jr, courage happens because of a cause. If by jumping off a bridge meant saving a loved one of yours, I think you'd trade stupidity for courage and make the jump. "Greater love has no one than this, than to give his life for a friend (or someone in need)."
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: What a great word for the day – you should forward it to CBS so that they could include it tonight on the evening news broadcast!====JACK: Just like with some sermons...."That's a great word. I should follow up on that." Sometimes we do. Sometimes we don't. Today, I didn't. Maybe, next time.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: "COURAGE IS BORN AT THE POINT WHERE GOD'S GRACE AND HUMAN EFFORT INTERSECT"...(Father Timothy M. Gallagher) JUST BACK FROM A COUPLE OF WEEKS IN SUNNY CA (YESTERDAY) AND IT TOOK COURAGE TO BRAVE ILLINOIS ARCTIC WEATHER TODAY! :-) BUT A GOOD DAY TO REMEMBER A VERY COURAGEOUS MAN (AND HIS WIFE!) AND ALL HE ACCOMPLISHED WITH HIS LEADERSHIP! WE MARCHED WITH MLK IN CHICAGO, AND IT COULD GET UGLY!! WE'VE COME A LONG WAY, BUT STILL HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO. READING OF MALCOLM BOYD'S BOOK "ARE YOU RUNNING WITH ME JESUS?" IN YOU BLOG, ALSO BROT BACK MEMORIES. GREAT PRAYERS AND INSIGHTS!====JACK: No marching in northern Wisconsin while you were marching in Chicago. In fact, no African-Americans in the community where I lived. We watched on TV. Only later did I come to realize the significance of what was going on.====OAKS: THANKS...I'M SURE THE SOUTHERN MARCHES WERE MUCH WORSE THAN THE NORTHERN EFFORTS! PAUL BICKNELL, A BRETHREN PASTOR IN ELGIN (LATER UNITARIAN) WANTED BILL TO GO TO ONE OF THE SOUTHERN MARCHES, CAN'T RECALL WHICH ONE, BUT WE HAD OUR SMALL SONS, AND I WAS NOT AT ALL ENTHUSED; HE TOLD PAUL, "THANKS BUT I THINK I CAN GET CRUCIFIED RIGHT HERE IN ELGIN!' BILL LED A CRUSADE FOR OPEN HOUSING, PUTTING AN AD IN THE PAPER WITH PEOPLE'S NAMES WHO WOULD SELL THEIR HOMES TO BUYERS OF ANY RACE, AND IN OUR LARGE CHURCH (1176 MEMBERS) HE HAD SEVEN SIGNERS! IT WAS A BITTER BLOW! HE DID HAVE MORE SUCCESS WITH SOME OTHER CHURCHES, BUT THE RESPONSE WAS MINIMAL COMPARED TO THE WHITE POPULATION. THE AD WAS NOTICED, AND WE HAD SOME ANGRY (AND A FEW ENCOURAGING) RESPONSES BY OUR OWN NEIGHBORS. ONE HISPANIC FAMILY MOVED IN NEXT DOOR TO US!====JACK: Elgin or Selma? Really, what's the difference? God is the ultimate judge.
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: Amen.====JACK: That's a song for you.
See the little baby, amen
Lyin' in a manger, amen
On christmas morning,
Amen, amen, amen
See him in the temple, amen
Talking with the elders, amen
Who marveled at his wisdom
Amen, amen, amen
See him by the seaside, amen
Talking with the fishermen, amen
Makin' 'em disciples
Amen, amen, amen
Marchin' to Jerusalem, amen
Wavin' palm branches, amen
In pomp and splendor
Amen, amen, amen
See him in the garden, amen
Talkin' with the father, amen
In deepest sorrow
Amen, amen, amen
Led before Pilate, amen
Then they crucified him, amen
But he rose on easter
Amen, amen, amen
Hallelujah!, amen
He died to save us, amen
But he lives forever!
Amen, amen, amen
====MARY: uncanny...i saw the end of lilies of the field today...it's the seen when sydney and the nuns and, well, me are singing just that song. synchronicity at it's best!
FROM AW IN ILLINOIS: Jack, when Judy died, I was lost..but then I was inspired to adopt the motto, "smile and keep on going"......and it has helped me.====JACK: I like the words of the song..."Let a smile be your umbrella" when the tears are falling..
FROM KF IN MICHIGAN: Agreed! A current lesson here would be more courage for students to stand up to bullies = fewer teen suicides! Needs to be taught!
“Courage is being afraid, but going on anyhow.” (Dan Rather) I’m currently reading “A Small Treatise on Great Virtues.” One virtue listed is, Courage. No one could deny that it took courage for MLK Jr to lead the Civil Rights Movement….lynchings, beatings, bombings, jail-time. Yet, he pressed on, in spite of danger. Today is not only a time for remembering, but a time for us to courageously stand up for that which is right. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: Can even run parallel with being a pastor in a community or world that no longer enjoys having "In God We Trust" life position . . . but pluralistic notions of what life is all about apart from our Jewish//Christian founding tradition. ====JACK: Celebrate the fact that you live in a country where people are free to practice their religious beliefs...whatever they might be. Some people shop at Walmart, some at Target, and some stay home.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: Glad we have the opportunity to remember and celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. in our community. In a couple of hours we'll be walking and singing and then hearing some speeches and presentations to help us keep on standing up for that which is right, for the dream that MLK lifted up for all of us.====JACK: A march begins with the first step. And, sometimes, that step involves courage.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: I'd be afraid to jump off the Brooklyn Bridge, and I'll be damned if I'd do it anyhow. Don't mistake courage for stupidity====JACK: As with MLK Jr, courage happens because of a cause. If by jumping off a bridge meant saving a loved one of yours, I think you'd trade stupidity for courage and make the jump. "Greater love has no one than this, than to give his life for a friend (or someone in need)."
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: What a great word for the day – you should forward it to CBS so that they could include it tonight on the evening news broadcast!====JACK: Just like with some sermons...."That's a great word. I should follow up on that." Sometimes we do. Sometimes we don't. Today, I didn't. Maybe, next time.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: "COURAGE IS BORN AT THE POINT WHERE GOD'S GRACE AND HUMAN EFFORT INTERSECT"...(Father Timothy M. Gallagher) JUST BACK FROM A COUPLE OF WEEKS IN SUNNY CA (YESTERDAY) AND IT TOOK COURAGE TO BRAVE ILLINOIS ARCTIC WEATHER TODAY! :-) BUT A GOOD DAY TO REMEMBER A VERY COURAGEOUS MAN (AND HIS WIFE!) AND ALL HE ACCOMPLISHED WITH HIS LEADERSHIP! WE MARCHED WITH MLK IN CHICAGO, AND IT COULD GET UGLY!! WE'VE COME A LONG WAY, BUT STILL HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO. READING OF MALCOLM BOYD'S BOOK "ARE YOU RUNNING WITH ME JESUS?" IN YOU BLOG, ALSO BROT BACK MEMORIES. GREAT PRAYERS AND INSIGHTS!====JACK: No marching in northern Wisconsin while you were marching in Chicago. In fact, no African-Americans in the community where I lived. We watched on TV. Only later did I come to realize the significance of what was going on.====OAKS: THANKS...I'M SURE THE SOUTHERN MARCHES WERE MUCH WORSE THAN THE NORTHERN EFFORTS! PAUL BICKNELL, A BRETHREN PASTOR IN ELGIN (LATER UNITARIAN) WANTED BILL TO GO TO ONE OF THE SOUTHERN MARCHES, CAN'T RECALL WHICH ONE, BUT WE HAD OUR SMALL SONS, AND I WAS NOT AT ALL ENTHUSED; HE TOLD PAUL, "THANKS BUT I THINK I CAN GET CRUCIFIED RIGHT HERE IN ELGIN!' BILL LED A CRUSADE FOR OPEN HOUSING, PUTTING AN AD IN THE PAPER WITH PEOPLE'S NAMES WHO WOULD SELL THEIR HOMES TO BUYERS OF ANY RACE, AND IN OUR LARGE CHURCH (1176 MEMBERS) HE HAD SEVEN SIGNERS! IT WAS A BITTER BLOW! HE DID HAVE MORE SUCCESS WITH SOME OTHER CHURCHES, BUT THE RESPONSE WAS MINIMAL COMPARED TO THE WHITE POPULATION. THE AD WAS NOTICED, AND WE HAD SOME ANGRY (AND A FEW ENCOURAGING) RESPONSES BY OUR OWN NEIGHBORS. ONE HISPANIC FAMILY MOVED IN NEXT DOOR TO US!====JACK: Elgin or Selma? Really, what's the difference? God is the ultimate judge.
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: Amen.====JACK: That's a song for you.
See the little baby, amen
Lyin' in a manger, amen
On christmas morning,
Amen, amen, amen
See him in the temple, amen
Talking with the elders, amen
Who marveled at his wisdom
Amen, amen, amen
See him by the seaside, amen
Talking with the fishermen, amen
Makin' 'em disciples
Amen, amen, amen
Marchin' to Jerusalem, amen
Wavin' palm branches, amen
In pomp and splendor
Amen, amen, amen
See him in the garden, amen
Talkin' with the father, amen
In deepest sorrow
Amen, amen, amen
Led before Pilate, amen
Then they crucified him, amen
But he rose on easter
Amen, amen, amen
Hallelujah!, amen
He died to save us, amen
But he lives forever!
Amen, amen, amen
====MARY: uncanny...i saw the end of lilies of the field today...it's the seen when sydney and the nuns and, well, me are singing just that song. synchronicity at it's best!
FROM AW IN ILLINOIS: Jack, when Judy died, I was lost..but then I was inspired to adopt the motto, "smile and keep on going"......and it has helped me.====JACK: I like the words of the song..."Let a smile be your umbrella" when the tears are falling..
FROM KF IN MICHIGAN: Agreed! A current lesson here would be more courage for students to stand up to bullies = fewer teen suicides! Needs to be taught!
Friday, January 17, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/17/14
“I run the race with determination…I am my body’s sternest master.” (1 Cor 9:26,27) This is the slogan of Team Sweaty Sheep, a group of Kentucky church people who run on Sunday mornings. Their run is followed by a contemporary worship. Their pastor is an actual athletic trainer. A Denver church is named, A House for All Sinners and Saints. What do you think is appropriate when it comes to “church?” ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: Worship of the Lord. Can happen in a lot of different ways. Now I have my preferences but they in no way run the gamut.====JACK: Which do you put at the top of the gamut list... Julotta?====JOHN: Nar juldags Morton glimmar. Jag Vill til stalled ga ====JACK: Here are the lyrics, in case you feel like singing this morning...
När juldagsmorgon glimmar
Jag vill till stallet gå
Där Gud i nattens timma
Ren vilar upp på strå
Där Gud i nattens timma
Ren vilar upp på strå
Hur god du var som ville
Till jorden komma ned
Nu ej i synd jag spiller
Min barndoms dagar mer
Nu ej i synd jag spiller
Min barndoms dagar mer
Hur Jesu vi behöva
Du käre barnavän
Jag vill ej mer bedröva
Med synder dig igen
Jag vill ej mer bedröva
Med synder dig igen
FROM TARMART REV: The catacombs in Rome sufficed for some of the earlier Christ-followers . . . the front rooms of houses were popular back in "The Jesus Movement" days of the 70's . . . use what we have at the time a place is sought . . . "faithful and trustworthy over a little; I will put you in charge of much. Enter into and share the joy (the delight, the blessedness) which your master enjoys" (Matthew 25:21 Amplified Bible).====JACK: One church that I know of, followed the example of Jesus and worshipped in a synagogue.
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: People who worship Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.====JACK: Malcolm Boyd wrote a book of contemporary prayers. The title was taken from one of the prayers which began, "Are you running with me, Jesus?"
FROM MY LAWYER: Everything. All inclusive!====JACK: Andre Gide wrote..."Believe those who are seeking the truth. Doubt those who find it."
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I think "Church" is wherever you are "in sync" and on purpose in your walk with the Creator. This stance isn't received well among many of my Baptist Brethren. I would think God understands and appreciates intent over formal "aisle walking" and parroting an earthly version of what a Lutheran, Baptist, Muslim, or Catholic thinks is "conversion." God must be amused by our antics... ====JACK: One of the truisms of philosophy or theology is that there are no correct answers, only opinions. Yesterday I attended a meeting held at our local Muslim Unity Center. Their imam is one of the kindest and most gentle persons that I know.
FROM BBC IN ILLINOIS: Appropriate or beneficial or….I think we don’t typically spend enough time on praise and worship per se. People seem to either focus more on the teaching, or, dumb it down so that “outsiders are comfortable” which leaves the flock in need of nourishment or stick so close to the traditional liturgy that the insights and gifts of everyone are not used. That is a very good question. If only we could be open minded enough to allow for different styles/seasons/formats throughout the year.====JACK: Is worship meant to satisfy us, or God? And, what is satisfactory to God? Maybe it's to be private. Jesus said, "But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." Or, maybe that's taking it too literally.
FROM MOLINER JT: More on "church" tomorrow. Tomorrow is our annual meeting. Although things seem to be going good we need a "shot" of get-up-and-go. Where are the youth?====JACK: Times change, and the Church changes with the times. As far as the youth are concerned, fewer babies are being born, and many who are born are either non-church related or are part of a denomination different than yours.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: appropriate" when it comes to "church"? Church can be a building where people gather to be refreshed, reinforced, recommitted, remember, renewed spiritually, while their children are being introduced to the Scripture....all the while participating with fellow Christians/believers. If, however, the building "church" is not a possibility...Must there be walls and a steeple to be a "church"? Do not warm greetings to friends/neighbors/strangers fellow shoppers...praying at meals or special occasions, spontaneous prayers, "Thank you, Lord!" and mini conversations w/God throughout the day constitute "church"???...including our senses during our walks...... For some "church" is the experiences of life, I believe.====JACK: In fact, I once thought of calling my Winning Words "ministry," a Church Without Walls, because I consider you and other readers of Jack's Winning Words as members of my congregation. The blog allows feedback on "the sermons," not offered on a Sunday morning. Members of "the church" include people of different denominational beliefs, Christian and non-Christian and non-anything.. I've found, in retirement, a different way to be a pastor, without wearing a clerical collar. My role as chaplain to the Fire Dept, and now to the Police Dept, has expanded the "non-walls" of my church. ====SBP: Just another "I have to." I'm reading Buddhist Boot Camp . Interesting!====JACK: I wonder if that's the same boot camp the Beatles attended?
FROM RI IN BOSTON: What is "church" brings to mind a few choice words..."for where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." I remember a worship service you celebrated with a small group, outdoors among the trees of a Lutheran camp in upper Michigan. Very simple, but simply beautiful.====JACK: I remember having a funeral service where one person showed up, besides the funeral director.
“I run the race with determination…I am my body’s sternest master.” (1 Cor 9:26,27) This is the slogan of Team Sweaty Sheep, a group of Kentucky church people who run on Sunday mornings. Their run is followed by a contemporary worship. Their pastor is an actual athletic trainer. A Denver church is named, A House for All Sinners and Saints. What do you think is appropriate when it comes to “church?” ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: Worship of the Lord. Can happen in a lot of different ways. Now I have my preferences but they in no way run the gamut.====JACK: Which do you put at the top of the gamut list... Julotta?====JOHN: Nar juldags Morton glimmar. Jag Vill til stalled ga ====JACK: Here are the lyrics, in case you feel like singing this morning...
När juldagsmorgon glimmar
Jag vill till stallet gå
Där Gud i nattens timma
Ren vilar upp på strå
Där Gud i nattens timma
Ren vilar upp på strå
Hur god du var som ville
Till jorden komma ned
Nu ej i synd jag spiller
Min barndoms dagar mer
Nu ej i synd jag spiller
Min barndoms dagar mer
Hur Jesu vi behöva
Du käre barnavän
Jag vill ej mer bedröva
Med synder dig igen
Jag vill ej mer bedröva
Med synder dig igen
FROM TARMART REV: The catacombs in Rome sufficed for some of the earlier Christ-followers . . . the front rooms of houses were popular back in "The Jesus Movement" days of the 70's . . . use what we have at the time a place is sought . . . "faithful and trustworthy over a little; I will put you in charge of much. Enter into and share the joy (the delight, the blessedness) which your master enjoys" (Matthew 25:21 Amplified Bible).====JACK: One church that I know of, followed the example of Jesus and worshipped in a synagogue.
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: People who worship Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.====JACK: Malcolm Boyd wrote a book of contemporary prayers. The title was taken from one of the prayers which began, "Are you running with me, Jesus?"
FROM MY LAWYER: Everything. All inclusive!====JACK: Andre Gide wrote..."Believe those who are seeking the truth. Doubt those who find it."
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I think "Church" is wherever you are "in sync" and on purpose in your walk with the Creator. This stance isn't received well among many of my Baptist Brethren. I would think God understands and appreciates intent over formal "aisle walking" and parroting an earthly version of what a Lutheran, Baptist, Muslim, or Catholic thinks is "conversion." God must be amused by our antics... ====JACK: One of the truisms of philosophy or theology is that there are no correct answers, only opinions. Yesterday I attended a meeting held at our local Muslim Unity Center. Their imam is one of the kindest and most gentle persons that I know.
FROM BBC IN ILLINOIS: Appropriate or beneficial or….I think we don’t typically spend enough time on praise and worship per se. People seem to either focus more on the teaching, or, dumb it down so that “outsiders are comfortable” which leaves the flock in need of nourishment or stick so close to the traditional liturgy that the insights and gifts of everyone are not used. That is a very good question. If only we could be open minded enough to allow for different styles/seasons/formats throughout the year.====JACK: Is worship meant to satisfy us, or God? And, what is satisfactory to God? Maybe it's to be private. Jesus said, "But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." Or, maybe that's taking it too literally.
FROM MOLINER JT: More on "church" tomorrow. Tomorrow is our annual meeting. Although things seem to be going good we need a "shot" of get-up-and-go. Where are the youth?====JACK: Times change, and the Church changes with the times. As far as the youth are concerned, fewer babies are being born, and many who are born are either non-church related or are part of a denomination different than yours.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: appropriate" when it comes to "church"? Church can be a building where people gather to be refreshed, reinforced, recommitted, remember, renewed spiritually, while their children are being introduced to the Scripture....all the while participating with fellow Christians/believers. If, however, the building "church" is not a possibility...Must there be walls and a steeple to be a "church"? Do not warm greetings to friends/neighbors/strangers fellow shoppers...praying at meals or special occasions, spontaneous prayers, "Thank you, Lord!" and mini conversations w/God throughout the day constitute "church"???...including our senses during our walks...... For some "church" is the experiences of life, I believe.====JACK: In fact, I once thought of calling my Winning Words "ministry," a Church Without Walls, because I consider you and other readers of Jack's Winning Words as members of my congregation. The blog allows feedback on "the sermons," not offered on a Sunday morning. Members of "the church" include people of different denominational beliefs, Christian and non-Christian and non-anything.. I've found, in retirement, a different way to be a pastor, without wearing a clerical collar. My role as chaplain to the Fire Dept, and now to the Police Dept, has expanded the "non-walls" of my church. ====SBP: Just another "I have to." I'm reading Buddhist Boot Camp . Interesting!====JACK: I wonder if that's the same boot camp the Beatles attended?
FROM RI IN BOSTON: What is "church" brings to mind a few choice words..."for where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." I remember a worship service you celebrated with a small group, outdoors among the trees of a Lutheran camp in upper Michigan. Very simple, but simply beautiful.====JACK: I remember having a funeral service where one person showed up, besides the funeral director.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/16/14
“You confuse not speaking with not listening.” (From the musical, Wicked) I saw a cartoon: “My wife and I had words this morning, but I didn’t get to use mine.” Often problems at home, at work or in school happen because someone isn’t listening. I came across some good ideas on how to be a better listener. Don’t interrupt; look for non-verbal cues; repeat what you’ve heard; seek to understand, not to win. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: "Don’t interrupt; look for non-verbal cues; repeat what you’ve heard; seek to understand, not to win." . . . I'm copying and pasting this in my memory this morning in hopes of being able to recall it throughout my day!====JACK: Those of us who, by profession, are public speakers, need to learn how to listen when others are speaking.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: This is actually an amazing WW. People sometimes "tune out" with each other, especially when they expect the other person or have had a lot of experiences with the other person being "long winded". Remember Archie Bunker with Edith? I hope today I can remember to "seek to understand, not to win." and tomorrow do that again.====JACK: Edith knew how to listen. Archie knew how to talk, but his listening skills could have used an upgrade.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I think it is, "Don't confuse "not speaking" with "listening". Still good advice either way.====JACK: I agree that "your" way seems to make more sense, but I went back and checked several sites. All showed the quote to be as I sent it out.====JON: Thanks. It is a great quote used either way. Life is good...
FROM HCC CHUCK: Great advice!!!!!!!!!====JACK: Yes, "winning" words.
FROM DP IN MINNESOTA: Great advice!!!====JACK: You're the 2nd person to respond by writing, "Great advice." The other person used 9 exclamation marks, and you only used 3. What do you suppose that means? Probably that the other person needs the advice more than you do. BTW, Mary refers to them as a "bat and ball." Have you heard that expression before?
“You confuse not speaking with not listening.” (From the musical, Wicked) I saw a cartoon: “My wife and I had words this morning, but I didn’t get to use mine.” Often problems at home, at work or in school happen because someone isn’t listening. I came across some good ideas on how to be a better listener. Don’t interrupt; look for non-verbal cues; repeat what you’ve heard; seek to understand, not to win. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: "Don’t interrupt; look for non-verbal cues; repeat what you’ve heard; seek to understand, not to win." . . . I'm copying and pasting this in my memory this morning in hopes of being able to recall it throughout my day!====JACK: Those of us who, by profession, are public speakers, need to learn how to listen when others are speaking.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: This is actually an amazing WW. People sometimes "tune out" with each other, especially when they expect the other person or have had a lot of experiences with the other person being "long winded". Remember Archie Bunker with Edith? I hope today I can remember to "seek to understand, not to win." and tomorrow do that again.====JACK: Edith knew how to listen. Archie knew how to talk, but his listening skills could have used an upgrade.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I think it is, "Don't confuse "not speaking" with "listening". Still good advice either way.====JACK: I agree that "your" way seems to make more sense, but I went back and checked several sites. All showed the quote to be as I sent it out.====JON: Thanks. It is a great quote used either way. Life is good...
FROM HCC CHUCK: Great advice!!!!!!!!!====JACK: Yes, "winning" words.
FROM DP IN MINNESOTA: Great advice!!!====JACK: You're the 2nd person to respond by writing, "Great advice." The other person used 9 exclamation marks, and you only used 3. What do you suppose that means? Probably that the other person needs the advice more than you do. BTW, Mary refers to them as a "bat and ball." Have you heard that expression before?
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/15/14
“One of the hardest decisions you’ll ever face in life is choosing whether to walk away or try harder.” (Ziad Abelnour – Investment Advisor) There are times when we have to act on the spur of the moment. Shall I walk away from the problem? Shall I face it…and try harder? I’m grateful for a teacher who encouraged me to “try harder.” I was “coasting.” Sometimes a competitor wins a race simply by trying harder. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: I remind myself often to be able to stand someday before our Heavenly Father and be able to say I tried my best in those conflicting times I know in my heart God has purposefully set before me.====JACK: Do you think that God enters into your life as did did with Job...to see how much you can endure?====REV: I do, knowing how much I should endure, giving Him the reigns as I should know to do . . . how's that for a mouth full?====JACK: So he and Satan are testing you, to see what you might do under certain circumstances?
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Great Winning Words! It's so much easier to walk away, and sometimes that's necessary too. But the real challenge is to hang in there if possible.====JACK: To know when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em is important when playing cards, but it's also important in the game of life.
FROM TRIHARDER: When do you cut bait? One more lap, One more try, one more day, one more quarter ..Hoping against odds for success can be a dangerous addiction, too.====JACK: We each have different levels of tolerance. That's what make winners and losers. Also, some are born competitors and some are not. I think that you have that gene.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Avis made "We try harder" work very well for them. The only thing you need to walk away from is fear. (Thank you, Franklin)====JACK: The Avis ad was named #2 in the listing of the best top ten ads of all time.
FROM CWR IN WOLVERINE LAKE: ............sometimes,however, the better choice is to 'walk away'........====JACK: You're right. Sometimes reality sets in and trying harder must come to a close.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: LAL.====JACK: Hip senior on Facebook.... BYOT: Bring Your Own Teeth. GGPBL: Gotta Go Pacemaker Battery Low. TTYL: Talk To You Louder.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: If "try harder" is done using the same strategy, it might work. However, repeatedly doing the same thing w/no success may be an exercise in futility. Trying a new, different approach/strategy....or taking time to analyze (walking away temporarily) might be beneficial for getting around, through, over the mountain...with God's help! ====JACK: Einstein's words seem to fit. "Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." But, some people quit after only one try. That's not too smart, either.
“One of the hardest decisions you’ll ever face in life is choosing whether to walk away or try harder.” (Ziad Abelnour – Investment Advisor) There are times when we have to act on the spur of the moment. Shall I walk away from the problem? Shall I face it…and try harder? I’m grateful for a teacher who encouraged me to “try harder.” I was “coasting.” Sometimes a competitor wins a race simply by trying harder. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: I remind myself often to be able to stand someday before our Heavenly Father and be able to say I tried my best in those conflicting times I know in my heart God has purposefully set before me.====JACK: Do you think that God enters into your life as did did with Job...to see how much you can endure?====REV: I do, knowing how much I should endure, giving Him the reigns as I should know to do . . . how's that for a mouth full?====JACK: So he and Satan are testing you, to see what you might do under certain circumstances?
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Great Winning Words! It's so much easier to walk away, and sometimes that's necessary too. But the real challenge is to hang in there if possible.====JACK: To know when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em is important when playing cards, but it's also important in the game of life.
FROM TRIHARDER: When do you cut bait? One more lap, One more try, one more day, one more quarter ..Hoping against odds for success can be a dangerous addiction, too.====JACK: We each have different levels of tolerance. That's what make winners and losers. Also, some are born competitors and some are not. I think that you have that gene.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Avis made "We try harder" work very well for them. The only thing you need to walk away from is fear. (Thank you, Franklin)====JACK: The Avis ad was named #2 in the listing of the best top ten ads of all time.
FROM CWR IN WOLVERINE LAKE: ............sometimes,however, the better choice is to 'walk away'........====JACK: You're right. Sometimes reality sets in and trying harder must come to a close.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: LAL.====JACK: Hip senior on Facebook.... BYOT: Bring Your Own Teeth. GGPBL: Gotta Go Pacemaker Battery Low. TTYL: Talk To You Louder.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: If "try harder" is done using the same strategy, it might work. However, repeatedly doing the same thing w/no success may be an exercise in futility. Trying a new, different approach/strategy....or taking time to analyze (walking away temporarily) might be beneficial for getting around, through, over the mountain...with God's help! ====JACK: Einstein's words seem to fit. "Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." But, some people quit after only one try. That's not too smart, either.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/14/14
“You can’t hang out with negative people and expect to live a positive life.” (Joel Osteen) Dr. Phil has a list of 15 “parenting” suggestions. A major one…Get to know the friends your child hangs out with. They can be a big influence for good or bad, and the parent should be aware. In fact, even adults can be influenced by the people they hang out with. What is it that you look for in your child’s friends…or your’s? ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: I think that's where I went astray. My Dad warned me about having kids from Moline as friends but I've had a lots of them. Dr. Phil is probably right on this one.====JACK: I think that the Tri-Cities, Quad-Cities, Quint-Cities should have merged into one metropolitan community, but the voters turned it down. Animosity is hard to get rid of...and so is the fear of BIG government.
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: Sometimes one cannot avoid being around "negative" people. In these circumstances, one's true "positivity" is at issue. It's easy to become negative oneself about the negativity of another. Regarding friends: I have many friends who seem to serve different parts of my life in accordance with their own temperaments. So, I suppose I have friends for different situations and moods of my own. In the end though, their values, character, integrity, and the like are what are most important for myself, them, and our relationships.====JACK: Martin Luther said this with regard to having evil thoughts, but it relates also to coming in contact with negative people...."You can't stop the birds from flying around your head, but you can stop them from building a nest in your hair."..
.FROM TARMART REV: It's my Lutheran friends who keep me in spiritual shape . . . with Christ's help of course!!====JACK: When God created....he didn't create religious denominations. He is the Father of all.
FROM TRIHARDER: Perfect! There are people who I consider "toxic" -- always negative. I've tried to limit my contact with them even though they may have been long-term friends. Thanks for crystallizing it. ====JACK: There's a verse in the Christian's New Testament where it says, "So, because you are lukewarm--neither hot nor cold--I am about to spit you out of my mouth." I suppose it could apply to toxic people, too.====TH: I shared your message with a friend of mine. He and I are counseling someone he brought into my life -- a woman (a psychologist, of all things). She looks at everything as a negative. I've been dragged into this thing and suddenly she confides in me for all of her (many, many) problems, most of which she creates on her own by being unable to hold her prolific tongue. His return message to me was that we are such a great help in her life. !!! ??? As Nancy Kerrigan famously said, "Why, me?"====JACK: As a takeoff on Rabbi Hillel, "If not me, who? If not now, when?" Whether someone is an attorney or a pastor, I believe that we can fulfill our reason for being by being available to help the helpless...guarding against becoming part of the problem, instead of becoming part of the solution (if, indeed, there is one).====TH: I'm there for friends. This one is kind of being imposed on me. But, I can't help but help. I know you would and you are a positive influence in my life.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: It's very true. A negative person can really be a downer in your life. It's easy for a person to pull you into the pit if you let them. Our parents were very thorough when it came to our friends...especially the one's of the opposite sex.====JACK: I remember our kids saying (when they were in high school), "Don't worry. We know who to avoid." Sometimes our kids are more discriminating than we give them credit for. There are times when we teach, without knowing that we are teaching.====JUDY: Actions do speak louder than words. Gary's favorite saying is something like this: "Preach the Gospel always and if necessary, use words". That's not quite the way he says it, but you understand.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Definitely a positive attitude. Apropos to the subject I received the email I just forwarded to you.====JACK: Oddly enough, your e-mail contains another Winning Word that I will be using tomorrow.
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: Very true. Dad stopped me from running with a neighbor kid who later ended up in prison.====JACK: Not long ago my grandson saw a mug-shot in the newspaper of someone arrested for armed robbery. He said to his mom, "I know him. We were in the same class in school."
FROM KF IN MICHIGAN: This has been a constant conversation in our house since preschool. Our tagline was "people judge you by the company you keep"..........in college the message has moved to "lose the people who bring you down" (after trying to help them move toward positive thinking.....)
“You can’t hang out with negative people and expect to live a positive life.” (Joel Osteen) Dr. Phil has a list of 15 “parenting” suggestions. A major one…Get to know the friends your child hangs out with. They can be a big influence for good or bad, and the parent should be aware. In fact, even adults can be influenced by the people they hang out with. What is it that you look for in your child’s friends…or your’s? ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: I think that's where I went astray. My Dad warned me about having kids from Moline as friends but I've had a lots of them. Dr. Phil is probably right on this one.====JACK: I think that the Tri-Cities, Quad-Cities, Quint-Cities should have merged into one metropolitan community, but the voters turned it down. Animosity is hard to get rid of...and so is the fear of BIG government.
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: Sometimes one cannot avoid being around "negative" people. In these circumstances, one's true "positivity" is at issue. It's easy to become negative oneself about the negativity of another. Regarding friends: I have many friends who seem to serve different parts of my life in accordance with their own temperaments. So, I suppose I have friends for different situations and moods of my own. In the end though, their values, character, integrity, and the like are what are most important for myself, them, and our relationships.====JACK: Martin Luther said this with regard to having evil thoughts, but it relates also to coming in contact with negative people...."You can't stop the birds from flying around your head, but you can stop them from building a nest in your hair."..
.FROM TARMART REV: It's my Lutheran friends who keep me in spiritual shape . . . with Christ's help of course!!====JACK: When God created....he didn't create religious denominations. He is the Father of all.
FROM TRIHARDER: Perfect! There are people who I consider "toxic" -- always negative. I've tried to limit my contact with them even though they may have been long-term friends. Thanks for crystallizing it. ====JACK: There's a verse in the Christian's New Testament where it says, "So, because you are lukewarm--neither hot nor cold--I am about to spit you out of my mouth." I suppose it could apply to toxic people, too.====TH: I shared your message with a friend of mine. He and I are counseling someone he brought into my life -- a woman (a psychologist, of all things). She looks at everything as a negative. I've been dragged into this thing and suddenly she confides in me for all of her (many, many) problems, most of which she creates on her own by being unable to hold her prolific tongue. His return message to me was that we are such a great help in her life. !!! ??? As Nancy Kerrigan famously said, "Why, me?"====JACK: As a takeoff on Rabbi Hillel, "If not me, who? If not now, when?" Whether someone is an attorney or a pastor, I believe that we can fulfill our reason for being by being available to help the helpless...guarding against becoming part of the problem, instead of becoming part of the solution (if, indeed, there is one).====TH: I'm there for friends. This one is kind of being imposed on me. But, I can't help but help. I know you would and you are a positive influence in my life.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: It's very true. A negative person can really be a downer in your life. It's easy for a person to pull you into the pit if you let them. Our parents were very thorough when it came to our friends...especially the one's of the opposite sex.====JACK: I remember our kids saying (when they were in high school), "Don't worry. We know who to avoid." Sometimes our kids are more discriminating than we give them credit for. There are times when we teach, without knowing that we are teaching.====JUDY: Actions do speak louder than words. Gary's favorite saying is something like this: "Preach the Gospel always and if necessary, use words". That's not quite the way he says it, but you understand.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Definitely a positive attitude. Apropos to the subject I received the email I just forwarded to you.====JACK: Oddly enough, your e-mail contains another Winning Word that I will be using tomorrow.
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: Very true. Dad stopped me from running with a neighbor kid who later ended up in prison.====JACK: Not long ago my grandson saw a mug-shot in the newspaper of someone arrested for armed robbery. He said to his mom, "I know him. We were in the same class in school."
FROM KF IN MICHIGAN: This has been a constant conversation in our house since preschool. Our tagline was "people judge you by the company you keep"..........in college the message has moved to "lose the people who bring you down" (after trying to help them move toward positive thinking.....)
Monday, January 13, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/13/14
“To achieve success, you must 1)Work hard
2)Believe in yourself 3)Work
hard.” (Poster in St. Leo’s Gym) St.
Leo’s basketball team in Chicago became champions, because they followed
the poster’s advice. That advice can be
a help for anyone who wants to be successful.
A friend of mine authored a book of inspirational quotes titled, “Winning
Words of Champions.” It begins…”God is
always #1.” ;-) Jack
FROM FLORANA NORM: You must have been thinking of me. All very important, but you must have a good plan that can make it all happen. Be able to accept changes and be able to make changes all the time. ====JACK: In the case of the basketball team, they needed a good coach, too. Slogans are just slogans. who was your coach? ====NORM: Lots of older people who I thought were successful. I was also very intuitive and fast learner when watching others. Asked good questions.
FROM TARMART REV: He is in my book as well.====JACK: Most important of all is that you're in his book!
FROM HONEST JOHN: A little bit of talent in your area of pursuit doesn't hurt....====JACK: In his book, David and Goliath, Gladwell tells of a coach who took a team of untalented girls and made them into a championship basketball team. I won't tell you how. It's in the book. You can get it at your library. .====JOHN: Overachieving is always possible. My beating Rod Laver in tennis would have been far beyond what overachieving could have made possible. Talent is a big part of the puzzle...along with hard work, inner drive, some luck, and other intangibles.====JACK: Gladwell begins his book by saying that David should never have been able to beat Goliath, except.... John could never expect to beat Rod, except...
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I would add that even though one might work hard, believe in oneself, and perform in accordance with one's plan, it is by Grace that one succeeds. At least this is my experience. I have have had good plans and worked hard, and still lost. I have have had good plans and worked hard, and succeeded. I believe that the aforementioned are requirements; but they do not serve as a formula -- just the minimum of requirements. "Success" can easily become a self-idolatry, and as such, it makes it difficult to get through the eye of the needle. Good fortune is a blessing as much as a fruit of one's labor. ====JACK: The street name for grace is...luck, or getting a break. Whichever term you choose to use, the recipe for success usually includes a number of ingredients. I've had lucky breaks along the way.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: Like many things in life ,success can not be accomplished with just 2 rules (even God needed 10 commandments not just 2). In my opinion #3 Identify your talent #4 Have a passion for your goal #5 Work smart not just hard As has been wisely said: "Practice doesn't make perfect, only perfect practice makes perfect"====JACK: In fact God's 10 were summarized into 2... Love the Lord with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself. ====IKE: I'm sorry to disagree with you, but if we practiced the 10 commandments as they were written of not stealing,killing etc.we would have a much more civilized society than we do today. Unfortunately the 10 commandments from the bible can not be summarized they must be followed as is. In fact,The best definition of the word BIBLE is Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth...====JACK: No real disagreement. Of course the 10 can stand alone. But, as is often the case, we summarize things, not change them, but to clarify them. We are to obey the Commandments because they are from God (we love God and his Law); by keeping the Law, we express love of our neighbor and obedience to God. Not to replace, but to clarify....====IKE: GREAT! isn't it interesting God,Great & Good all start with the same letter?====JACK: So does Google.
FROM MY FLORIST: Sounds like a copyright infringement. Just kidding.====JACK: You raise an interesting thought. Where in recorded history do we first hear of winning and losing? People before me have referred to Winning Words. I try to differentiate myself by using "Jack's" as a modifier.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: As Sam Goldwyn said, "The harder I work, the luckier I get." ====JACK: Sam's birth name was Szmuel Gelbfisz. He changed it to Samuel Goldfish and, eventually, to Sam Goldwyn. He's know for his malapropisms which came to be known at Goldwynisms.====PFC: Joan did a cross-stitch version of this (the Goldwyn quote), which we framed and hung in the office hallway.
FROM FLORANA NORM: You must have been thinking of me. All very important, but you must have a good plan that can make it all happen. Be able to accept changes and be able to make changes all the time. ====JACK: In the case of the basketball team, they needed a good coach, too. Slogans are just slogans. who was your coach? ====NORM: Lots of older people who I thought were successful. I was also very intuitive and fast learner when watching others. Asked good questions.
FROM TARMART REV: He is in my book as well.====JACK: Most important of all is that you're in his book!
FROM HONEST JOHN: A little bit of talent in your area of pursuit doesn't hurt....====JACK: In his book, David and Goliath, Gladwell tells of a coach who took a team of untalented girls and made them into a championship basketball team. I won't tell you how. It's in the book. You can get it at your library. .====JOHN: Overachieving is always possible. My beating Rod Laver in tennis would have been far beyond what overachieving could have made possible. Talent is a big part of the puzzle...along with hard work, inner drive, some luck, and other intangibles.====JACK: Gladwell begins his book by saying that David should never have been able to beat Goliath, except.... John could never expect to beat Rod, except...
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I would add that even though one might work hard, believe in oneself, and perform in accordance with one's plan, it is by Grace that one succeeds. At least this is my experience. I have have had good plans and worked hard, and still lost. I have have had good plans and worked hard, and succeeded. I believe that the aforementioned are requirements; but they do not serve as a formula -- just the minimum of requirements. "Success" can easily become a self-idolatry, and as such, it makes it difficult to get through the eye of the needle. Good fortune is a blessing as much as a fruit of one's labor. ====JACK: The street name for grace is...luck, or getting a break. Whichever term you choose to use, the recipe for success usually includes a number of ingredients. I've had lucky breaks along the way.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: Like many things in life ,success can not be accomplished with just 2 rules (even God needed 10 commandments not just 2). In my opinion #3 Identify your talent #4 Have a passion for your goal #5 Work smart not just hard As has been wisely said: "Practice doesn't make perfect, only perfect practice makes perfect"====JACK: In fact God's 10 were summarized into 2... Love the Lord with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself. ====IKE: I'm sorry to disagree with you, but if we practiced the 10 commandments as they were written of not stealing,killing etc.we would have a much more civilized society than we do today. Unfortunately the 10 commandments from the bible can not be summarized they must be followed as is. In fact,The best definition of the word BIBLE is Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth...====JACK: No real disagreement. Of course the 10 can stand alone. But, as is often the case, we summarize things, not change them, but to clarify them. We are to obey the Commandments because they are from God (we love God and his Law); by keeping the Law, we express love of our neighbor and obedience to God. Not to replace, but to clarify....====IKE: GREAT! isn't it interesting God,Great & Good all start with the same letter?====JACK: So does Google.
FROM MY FLORIST: Sounds like a copyright infringement. Just kidding.====JACK: You raise an interesting thought. Where in recorded history do we first hear of winning and losing? People before me have referred to Winning Words. I try to differentiate myself by using "Jack's" as a modifier.
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: As Sam Goldwyn said, "The harder I work, the luckier I get." ====JACK: Sam's birth name was Szmuel Gelbfisz. He changed it to Samuel Goldfish and, eventually, to Sam Goldwyn. He's know for his malapropisms which came to be known at Goldwynisms.====PFC: Joan did a cross-stitch version of this (the Goldwyn quote), which we framed and hung in the office hallway.
Friday, January 10, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/10/14
“The art of life lies in a constant readjustment to our surroundings.” (Okakura Kakuzo) Did you know that the voice of GPS’s Siri is Australian, Karen Jacobsen? She’s the one who keeps saying, “Recalculating.” Some of us could probably use a personal “Siri” to help us simplify our lives by “recalculating” and setting a new direction. Today’s quote is by a Japanese “Siri” who lived a century ago. ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: I don't know...Siri gets pretty upset if you don't obey her..."Make an immediate U Turn..."====JACK: I was doing a crossword puzzle this morning, and one of the clues was: "In Austrailia her name is Karen." WWs gave me the answer.
FROM TARMART REV: I had to turn that voice off on my GPS . . . kept reminding me of how miss-directed I am . . . and on top of that, it had to be by a "woman"!!====JACK: Adam and Eve were told that, too...according to those who believe that God is not male.
FROM DOCTOR ERIC: I wish it could change the voice of SIRI to Homer Simpson on my iPhone. My wife is my personal SIRI. She's constantly redirecting me ;)====JACK: Quote from Homer: "Operator!
Give me the number for 911!" ...and you want him to be giving you directions?
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: The power of "RE": RE-calculating, RE-form,RE-gress,RE-solutions .====JACK: Thanks for your RE-sponse.
“The art of life lies in a constant readjustment to our surroundings.” (Okakura Kakuzo) Did you know that the voice of GPS’s Siri is Australian, Karen Jacobsen? She’s the one who keeps saying, “Recalculating.” Some of us could probably use a personal “Siri” to help us simplify our lives by “recalculating” and setting a new direction. Today’s quote is by a Japanese “Siri” who lived a century ago. ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: I don't know...Siri gets pretty upset if you don't obey her..."Make an immediate U Turn..."====JACK: I was doing a crossword puzzle this morning, and one of the clues was: "In Austrailia her name is Karen." WWs gave me the answer.
FROM TARMART REV: I had to turn that voice off on my GPS . . . kept reminding me of how miss-directed I am . . . and on top of that, it had to be by a "woman"!!====JACK: Adam and Eve were told that, too...according to those who believe that God is not male.
FROM DOCTOR ERIC: I wish it could change the voice of SIRI to Homer Simpson on my iPhone. My wife is my personal SIRI. She's constantly redirecting me ;)====JACK: Quote from Homer: "Operator!
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: The power of "RE": RE-calculating, RE-form,RE-gress,RE-solutions .====JACK: Thanks for your RE-sponse.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: Recalculating? "I'm sorry Dave, I'm afraid I
can't do that!" Hal====JACK: So, you're a fan of "2001, A Space Odyssey," too? A really great movie. I can remember where and when I saw it.
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: The comment of recalculation references a fundamental principle in the Bhuddist philosophy regarding the temporality of everything (in this world anyway - a philosophy and not a theology), and their "practice" is to live with the loss of "things", even their own moments. We can learn from this attention to loss, and the appreciation for what we do have while we do have it. For all things there is a season, and a season for all things. We recalculate as the seasons change.====JACK: I've never thought of the idea of RE-incarnation as a kind of RE-calculation. Or, it's like kids playing a game, making a mistake, and calling out, "Do-overs!"
FROM BBC IN ILLINOIS: Yes I have, and my Irish relatives cross themselves all of the time. It’s actually kind of a nice gesture when you think of it and take it outside the doors of the sanctuary. They also punctuate sentences with “please God”====JACK: Your response caused me to think....What is it that I do that expresses my belief in God? I remember a humble church member who came to church wearing a suit with a small gold cross in his lapel. I was always impressed by that.====BBC: I wore a cross for years and years, then it seemed pop culture co-opted the symbol, first Madonna, then the rappers. The small lapel pin is a good reminder. Felt the same about WWJD. In the beginning it was a thoughtful reminder then there were so many permutations and misuses that it lost it’s power.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: And isn't that what makes life interesting, exciting, and challenging? Sometimes it is hard, but that is why God gave us a brain and free will to make decisions all of our life. Each day is an adventure and a challenge.====JACK: Confession and asking for forgiveness is a sort of recalculation, isn't it? In the Catholic Church the priest serves as a kind of Siri.
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: The comment of recalculation references a fundamental principle in the Bhuddist philosophy regarding the temporality of everything (in this world anyway - a philosophy and not a theology), and their "practice" is to live with the loss of "things", even their own moments. We can learn from this attention to loss, and the appreciation for what we do have while we do have it. For all things there is a season, and a season for all things. We recalculate as the seasons change.====JACK: I've never thought of the idea of RE-incarnation as a kind of RE-calculation. Or, it's like kids playing a game, making a mistake, and calling out, "Do-overs!"
FROM BBC IN ILLINOIS: Yes I have, and my Irish relatives cross themselves all of the time. It’s actually kind of a nice gesture when you think of it and take it outside the doors of the sanctuary. They also punctuate sentences with “please God”====JACK: Your response caused me to think....What is it that I do that expresses my belief in God? I remember a humble church member who came to church wearing a suit with a small gold cross in his lapel. I was always impressed by that.====BBC: I wore a cross for years and years, then it seemed pop culture co-opted the symbol, first Madonna, then the rappers. The small lapel pin is a good reminder. Felt the same about WWJD. In the beginning it was a thoughtful reminder then there were so many permutations and misuses that it lost it’s power.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: And isn't that what makes life interesting, exciting, and challenging? Sometimes it is hard, but that is why God gave us a brain and free will to make decisions all of our life. Each day is an adventure and a challenge.====JACK: Confession and asking for forgiveness is a sort of recalculation, isn't it? In the Catholic Church the priest serves as a kind of Siri.
Thursday, January 09, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/9/14
“Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try.” (Brian Littrell) Which do you think is the most dangerous of the Winter Olympic Games? Some say it’s the luge. Free-style snowboarding, with twists and turns, looks scary, too. Life has a way of putting us into frightening situations, some even scarier than the luge. Have you noticed that there are athletes who cross themselves beforehand…and afterward? ;-) Jack
FROM TRIHARDER: You can't do it until you think about doing it. I agree. I used to say regarding a major "project", "I'm thinking about xxx -- but I won't do it unless I tell people that I'm thinking about doing it." Often, just telling people about the plan would motivate me to do it. When I was talking about taking my son's soccer team to Cuba, it started with a conversation, then telling/asking people about it. My real motivation occurred when my X said, "You'll never do it." ====JACK: "You'll never do it," is a great motivator for certain competitive people, and I fit into that group...sometimes.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I've noticed that there are more people in my congregation who cross themselves during worship now-a-days.====JACK: What do suppose that means? What do you suppose it means to the athlete? I've read that Martin Luther suggested making the sign of the cross in the morning and in the evening. Why do you think he suggested this?
FROM BFC IN MICHIGAN: I think the downhill skiing is the scariest. Remember Franz Klammer? ====JACK: By way of Youtube, you can re-see the Klammer accident. Scary! Yes!====BFC: I don't remember him crashing! I just remember he was so crazy-fast and (seemingly) fearless.
FROM TARMART REV: "Have you noticed that there are athletes who cross themselves beforehand…and afterward?" I love that line, Jack!!====JACK: Have you noticed anyone in an Assembly of God gathering cross themselves? What does that mean to you?====REV: Interesting thought . . . I began doing this when I read some years ago that this was not just a Roman Catholic ritual for other church bodies have used it in their faith expression as well. With that said, you will most likely not (other that on rare occasion as I will be found doing so) see a member of the Assemblies of God doing this. The reason is we have never been led to do so . . . probably as we are found to be on the other side of any liturgical expression . . . perhaps we will regret that someday.
FROM MY LAWYER: If I were in the Olympics and in the luge, I'd cross myself too, just in case!!! ====JACK: You could be in the Bud Lite TV commercial..."It's only weird, if it doesn't work."
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: Like====JACK: K
FROM RI IN BOSTON: The most difficult part of accomplishing something is to get up out of the chair. ====JACK: I have this saying posted by my computer...GET TOUGH...GET OFF YOUR DUFF.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: We were discussing the Olympics last night. We have so much respect for people who work so hard to become the best. I can't say I have ever worked as hard on something as they do. We always notice the athletes who cross themselves before and after. It's good so know so many people of all races and colors are connected to God.====JACK: When I was in Luther League there was a group called the PTL, Pocket Testament League. Members would carry a small New Testament with them and pledge to read a verse a day. Is that the same as crossing yourself? : ====JUDY: No, I think they are two different things. To cross oneself I think, is a reminder of Who you serve and you are either asking for assistance and then are thankful afterwards. I don't know why the Catholics cross themselves though. Reading a Bible verse a day is something you to do learn and hold in your heart. Hopefully, then walk in the Light God gave you through His Words. Again, these are just things I believe, I imagine it's different for everyone.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: They all look dangerous to me. We just have to take one day at a time and to do the best that we can.====JACK: One that I like which doesn't look dangerous is ice dancing.
“Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try.” (Brian Littrell) Which do you think is the most dangerous of the Winter Olympic Games? Some say it’s the luge. Free-style snowboarding, with twists and turns, looks scary, too. Life has a way of putting us into frightening situations, some even scarier than the luge. Have you noticed that there are athletes who cross themselves beforehand…and afterward? ;-) Jack
FROM TRIHARDER: You can't do it until you think about doing it. I agree. I used to say regarding a major "project", "I'm thinking about xxx -- but I won't do it unless I tell people that I'm thinking about doing it." Often, just telling people about the plan would motivate me to do it. When I was talking about taking my son's soccer team to Cuba, it started with a conversation, then telling/asking people about it. My real motivation occurred when my X said, "You'll never do it." ====JACK: "You'll never do it," is a great motivator for certain competitive people, and I fit into that group...sometimes.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I've noticed that there are more people in my congregation who cross themselves during worship now-a-days.====JACK: What do suppose that means? What do you suppose it means to the athlete? I've read that Martin Luther suggested making the sign of the cross in the morning and in the evening. Why do you think he suggested this?
FROM BFC IN MICHIGAN: I think the downhill skiing is the scariest. Remember Franz Klammer? ====JACK: By way of Youtube, you can re-see the Klammer accident. Scary! Yes!====BFC: I don't remember him crashing! I just remember he was so crazy-fast and (seemingly) fearless.
FROM TARMART REV: "Have you noticed that there are athletes who cross themselves beforehand…and afterward?" I love that line, Jack!!====JACK: Have you noticed anyone in an Assembly of God gathering cross themselves? What does that mean to you?====REV: Interesting thought . . . I began doing this when I read some years ago that this was not just a Roman Catholic ritual for other church bodies have used it in their faith expression as well. With that said, you will most likely not (other that on rare occasion as I will be found doing so) see a member of the Assemblies of God doing this. The reason is we have never been led to do so . . . probably as we are found to be on the other side of any liturgical expression . . . perhaps we will regret that someday.
FROM MY LAWYER: If I were in the Olympics and in the luge, I'd cross myself too, just in case!!! ====JACK: You could be in the Bud Lite TV commercial..."It's only weird, if it doesn't work."
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: Like====JACK: K
FROM RI IN BOSTON: The most difficult part of accomplishing something is to get up out of the chair. ====JACK: I have this saying posted by my computer...GET TOUGH...GET OFF YOUR DUFF.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: We were discussing the Olympics last night. We have so much respect for people who work so hard to become the best. I can't say I have ever worked as hard on something as they do. We always notice the athletes who cross themselves before and after. It's good so know so many people of all races and colors are connected to God.====JACK: When I was in Luther League there was a group called the PTL, Pocket Testament League. Members would carry a small New Testament with them and pledge to read a verse a day. Is that the same as crossing yourself? : ====JUDY: No, I think they are two different things. To cross oneself I think, is a reminder of Who you serve and you are either asking for assistance and then are thankful afterwards. I don't know why the Catholics cross themselves though. Reading a Bible verse a day is something you to do learn and hold in your heart. Hopefully, then walk in the Light God gave you through His Words. Again, these are just things I believe, I imagine it's different for everyone.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: They all look dangerous to me. We just have to take one day at a time and to do the best that we can.====JACK: One that I like which doesn't look dangerous is ice dancing.
Wednesday, January 08, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/8/14
“After a while, the newness wears off.” (Kellie Lee) When do we stop saying, “Happy New Year?” When does the newness of 2014 end? I guess it all depends on the people we will meet and the experiences we will have. I’m anxious for this to be a great year. But, it won’t come about by just wishing for it to happen. Some of it takes effort on our part. Hmmm! Isn’t that the way it is with relationships, too. ;-) Jack
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I have clothes that I bought in 1994, and now have holes worn right through the fabric. I know I have to give them up....but I don't want to. They have become so very comfortable with age. I suppose relationships can be like this too, if we wear them well!====JACK: There's an expression that's seldom heard anymore...referring to someone as "an old shoe," meaning...I'm comfortable with that person. A couple of old shoes that I know recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.
FROM TARMART REV: Another fine word for us to contemplate, Jack . . . off to Fargo, ND right now to talk to a group of pastors, hoping to stir one or two to consider representing Railroad Chaplains of America in that region so I won't have to always drive those 3-4 hours over there doing the same. "It won't just happen . . . it takes an effort on someone's heart to make it known."====JACK: Rather than "it takes an effort," I think it takes a sense of "being called by God," to do his ministry. I like this poem which says it well:
Christ has no hands but our hands to do His work today
He has no feet but our feet to lead men in the way
He has no tongue but our tongue to tell men how He died
He has no help but our help to bring them to His side.
We are the only Bible the careless world will read,
We are the sinner’s gospel; we are the scoffer’s creed;
We are the Lord’s last message, given in word and deed;
What if the type is crooked? What if the print is blurred?
What if our hands are busy with other work than His?
What if our feet are walking where sin’s allurement is?
What if our tongue is speaking of things His lips would spurn?
How can we hope to help Him or welcome His return?
—Annie Johnston Flint
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: I find it interesting that everyone feels obligated to make resolutions on New Year's day, loosely defined "re" from the Latin is try again & then of course we're left with the rest of the word being solutions.. So... on January 1st we should wish each other a HAPPY NEW YEAR; thereafter, we should wish each other HAPPY RESOLUTION!...mmmm====JACK: I like your suggestion to call them New Year re-solutions!
FROM AW IN MICHIGAN: Happy New Year, Jack. You are off to a great start with Winning Words in 2014.====JACK: There was a time when the school day began with students singing to the teacher...
"Good morning to you, good morning to you, we're all in our places with bright shining faces. What a wonderful way to start a new day." Winning Words is a good way for me to start a new day. I'm glad that you enjoy them.
FROM PRDM IN MICHIGAN: Well written...Thanks! ...and Happy New Year.====JACK As the old song goes...If you're happy and you know it, say AMEN..
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: This will be a great year...they all are. Everyone suffers from something...ill health, lack of funds, low paying jobs...etc. But each day we wake up to a new beginning. How we deal with our new beginnings each day is up to each of us. My parents seemed so excited by the new day each day. My dad would holler up the stairs to us girls still sleeping "Wake up, it's daylight in the swamp!" Sometimes I liked to hear him yell it and sometimes not so much. I would love to hear it one more time from him now. I bet the angels wake up to him hollering everyday!====JACK: We each have triggers that activate our memories. "Wake up, it's daylight in the swamp," is certainly a special one. In my imagination, I can hear it now.
FROM DB IN MICHIGAN: Hi Jack, I have a burning question.........You mentioned relationships. How does one avoid "buyer's remorse"? (how does one know when a person is right for them) How does one find the right person? Should they create a long check-list of questions?====JACK: There's not a "one size fits all" answer to your question. I like the expression, "Fall in love, head first." I had reservations about one of the first marriages that I performed. It lasted over 50 years. One that I was "sure" about lasted only two weeks.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: January 15th, officially.====JACK: Does the same "official" have an opinion as to the date when we should stop saying, "Merry Christmas?"
FROM TRIHARDER: I remember when the love of my life arrived in Detroit. I couldn't wait to get home -- even though some work nights were very long. I called her "my new toy". Less than a year later, we were married. 21 years later, divorced. Yes, the newness wears off. Sometimes, though, the patina enhances the newness. Sometimes, it's rust.====JACK: Things happen. I loved my 55 red and cream Chevy Bel-Air hardtop. I traded her in for a 57 Ford, which was lemon. I keep a model of the Bel-Air by my computer, remembering the good old days.====TH: I had a Rocket 88 Olds convertible, white, with a 400 cu in engine. I don't know why I ever got rid of it. It was reliable, smooth and fast. I could nurse about 20 mpg out of it if I drove carefully -- which I usually did. My first car was a red Plymouth Valiant convertible with a "white" top (that was gray by the time that I inherited it -- from my brother -- who got it from our mother. Push button transmission.====JACK: My Uncle John always drove Oldsmobiles. As a teen-ager, I remember going with him to the Olds dealer when he picked out a new silver Rocket 88. What a beautiful automoble!
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Just because it isn't new, doesn't mean it is old. Some things are timeless. Like the day my daughter was born. Seems like only yesterday.====JACK: When our first daughter was born, fathers were not permitted in the delivery room. After a long period of time, I went up to the nurses' station to ask about how things were going. Oh, your daughter was born a couple of hours ago. I guess they forgot to tell you.
FROM DAZ IN COLORADO: Its been 54 days and its still new. (and great)====JACK: As long as you're counting, you might want to read the words by Elizabeth Barrett Browning...."How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I love thee to the depth and breadth and height My soul can reach, etc."
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: Haven't really thought about how the 2014's "newness wears off"...."til today's WW. For me, I guess, it's like "This is the first day of the rest of your life." And, actually, this moment is the first of the rest of my life. But/and we/I just keep on keepin on....moment to moment. ."It's daylight in the swamp!"....is part of my childhood memory bank. Along with lumberjack tales and copper mining experiences.....and pasties. Awesome!====JACK: I'd almost forgotten about your U.P. roots. A friend of mine who lives in Calumet says that they've had over 140 inches of snow so far. BTW, speaking of "keeping on," there's an old Swedish hymn that I like..
Day by day, your mercies, Lord, attend me, bringing comfort to my anxious soul.
Day by day, the blessings, Lord, you send me draw me nearer to my heav’nly goal.
Love divine, beyond all mortal measure, brings to naught the burdens of my quest;
Savior, lead me to the home I treasure, where at last I’ll find eternal rest.
Day by day, I know you will provide me strength to serve and wisdom to obey;
I will seek your loving will to guide me o’er the paths I struggle day by day.
I will fear no evil of the morrow, I will trust in your enduring grace.
Savior, help me bear life’s pain and sorrow till in glory I behold your face.
Oh, what joy to know that you are near me when my burdens grow too great to bear;
oh, what joy to know that you will hear me when I come, O Lord, to you in prayer.
Day by day, no matter what betide me, you will hold me ever in your hand.
Savior, with your presence here to guide me, I will reach at last the promised land.
“After a while, the newness wears off.” (Kellie Lee) When do we stop saying, “Happy New Year?” When does the newness of 2014 end? I guess it all depends on the people we will meet and the experiences we will have. I’m anxious for this to be a great year. But, it won’t come about by just wishing for it to happen. Some of it takes effort on our part. Hmmm! Isn’t that the way it is with relationships, too. ;-) Jack
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I have clothes that I bought in 1994, and now have holes worn right through the fabric. I know I have to give them up....but I don't want to. They have become so very comfortable with age. I suppose relationships can be like this too, if we wear them well!====JACK: There's an expression that's seldom heard anymore...referring to someone as "an old shoe," meaning...I'm comfortable with that person. A couple of old shoes that I know recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.
FROM TARMART REV: Another fine word for us to contemplate, Jack . . . off to Fargo, ND right now to talk to a group of pastors, hoping to stir one or two to consider representing Railroad Chaplains of America in that region so I won't have to always drive those 3-4 hours over there doing the same. "It won't just happen . . . it takes an effort on someone's heart to make it known."====JACK: Rather than "it takes an effort," I think it takes a sense of "being called by God," to do his ministry. I like this poem which says it well:
Christ has no hands but our hands to do His work today
He has no feet but our feet to lead men in the way
He has no tongue but our tongue to tell men how He died
He has no help but our help to bring them to His side.
We are the only Bible the careless world will read,
We are the sinner’s gospel; we are the scoffer’s creed;
We are the Lord’s last message, given in word and deed;
What if the type is crooked? What if the print is blurred?
What if our hands are busy with other work than His?
What if our feet are walking where sin’s allurement is?
What if our tongue is speaking of things His lips would spurn?
How can we hope to help Him or welcome His return?
—Annie Johnston Flint
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: I find it interesting that everyone feels obligated to make resolutions on New Year's day, loosely defined "re" from the Latin is try again & then of course we're left with the rest of the word being solutions.. So... on January 1st we should wish each other a HAPPY NEW YEAR; thereafter, we should wish each other HAPPY RESOLUTION!...mmmm====JACK: I like your suggestion to call them New Year re-solutions!
FROM AW IN MICHIGAN: Happy New Year, Jack. You are off to a great start with Winning Words in 2014.====JACK: There was a time when the school day began with students singing to the teacher...
"Good morning to you, good morning to you, we're all in our places with bright shining faces. What a wonderful way to start a new day." Winning Words is a good way for me to start a new day. I'm glad that you enjoy them.
FROM PRDM IN MICHIGAN: Well written...Thanks! ...and Happy New Year.====JACK As the old song goes...If you're happy and you know it, say AMEN..
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: This will be a great year...they all are. Everyone suffers from something...ill health, lack of funds, low paying jobs...etc. But each day we wake up to a new beginning. How we deal with our new beginnings each day is up to each of us. My parents seemed so excited by the new day each day. My dad would holler up the stairs to us girls still sleeping "Wake up, it's daylight in the swamp!" Sometimes I liked to hear him yell it and sometimes not so much. I would love to hear it one more time from him now. I bet the angels wake up to him hollering everyday!====JACK: We each have triggers that activate our memories. "Wake up, it's daylight in the swamp," is certainly a special one. In my imagination, I can hear it now.
FROM DB IN MICHIGAN: Hi Jack, I have a burning question.........You mentioned relationships. How does one avoid "buyer's remorse"? (how does one know when a person is right for them) How does one find the right person? Should they create a long check-list of questions?====JACK: There's not a "one size fits all" answer to your question. I like the expression, "Fall in love, head first." I had reservations about one of the first marriages that I performed. It lasted over 50 years. One that I was "sure" about lasted only two weeks.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: January 15th, officially.====JACK: Does the same "official" have an opinion as to the date when we should stop saying, "Merry Christmas?"
FROM TRIHARDER: I remember when the love of my life arrived in Detroit. I couldn't wait to get home -- even though some work nights were very long. I called her "my new toy". Less than a year later, we were married. 21 years later, divorced. Yes, the newness wears off. Sometimes, though, the patina enhances the newness. Sometimes, it's rust.====JACK: Things happen. I loved my 55 red and cream Chevy Bel-Air hardtop. I traded her in for a 57 Ford, which was lemon. I keep a model of the Bel-Air by my computer, remembering the good old days.====TH: I had a Rocket 88 Olds convertible, white, with a 400 cu in engine. I don't know why I ever got rid of it. It was reliable, smooth and fast. I could nurse about 20 mpg out of it if I drove carefully -- which I usually did. My first car was a red Plymouth Valiant convertible with a "white" top (that was gray by the time that I inherited it -- from my brother -- who got it from our mother. Push button transmission.====JACK: My Uncle John always drove Oldsmobiles. As a teen-ager, I remember going with him to the Olds dealer when he picked out a new silver Rocket 88. What a beautiful automoble!
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Just because it isn't new, doesn't mean it is old. Some things are timeless. Like the day my daughter was born. Seems like only yesterday.====JACK: When our first daughter was born, fathers were not permitted in the delivery room. After a long period of time, I went up to the nurses' station to ask about how things were going. Oh, your daughter was born a couple of hours ago. I guess they forgot to tell you.
FROM DAZ IN COLORADO: Its been 54 days and its still new. (and great)====JACK: As long as you're counting, you might want to read the words by Elizabeth Barrett Browning...."How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I love thee to the depth and breadth and height My soul can reach, etc."
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: Haven't really thought about how the 2014's "newness wears off"...."til today's WW. For me, I guess, it's like "This is the first day of the rest of your life." And, actually, this moment is the first of the rest of my life. But/and we/I just keep on keepin on....moment to moment. ."It's daylight in the swamp!"....is part of my childhood memory bank. Along with lumberjack tales and copper mining experiences.....and pasties. Awesome!====JACK: I'd almost forgotten about your U.P. roots. A friend of mine who lives in Calumet says that they've had over 140 inches of snow so far. BTW, speaking of "keeping on," there's an old Swedish hymn that I like..
Day by day, your mercies, Lord, attend me, bringing comfort to my anxious soul.
Day by day, the blessings, Lord, you send me draw me nearer to my heav’nly goal.
Love divine, beyond all mortal measure, brings to naught the burdens of my quest;
Savior, lead me to the home I treasure, where at last I’ll find eternal rest.
Day by day, I know you will provide me strength to serve and wisdom to obey;
I will seek your loving will to guide me o’er the paths I struggle day by day.
I will fear no evil of the morrow, I will trust in your enduring grace.
Savior, help me bear life’s pain and sorrow till in glory I behold your face.
Oh, what joy to know that you are near me when my burdens grow too great to bear;
oh, what joy to know that you will hear me when I come, O Lord, to you in prayer.
Day by day, no matter what betide me, you will hold me ever in your hand.
Savior, with your presence here to guide me, I will reach at last the promised land.
Tuesday, January 07, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 1/7/14
“A pound of pluck is worth a ton of luck.” (James A. Garfield) There was a Garfield School in the city where I grew up. I only knew that Garfield was a U S President. But, now, this quote interests me. “Pluck” means, continuing to do something, in spite of difficulty. Our 20th Pres also said: “I’ve had many troubles, but the worst of them never came.” Somebody had a good idea when they named that school, Garfield. ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: I remember driving home from the Heart of America Debate Tourney in Kansas...horrible snowstorm....had to get out and put chains on my tires...not easy to do in a snowstorm ...wearing a suit...put pjs on over my unit ....made it back to Augie. Prof Holcomb was confident all the way...I was not as confident....more like terrified====JACK: A good example of Pluck!
FROM TARMART REV: We have one in Willmar, MN too . . . it was closed when the town consolidated two of the old grade schools into a new facility . . . the Garfield building now is at the present "a pound of pluck" as it is used strictly for specialized educational activities.====JACK: A church building is a building. What's important is what is going on inside. The same can be said of the Garfield building..
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I remember coming back from Texas, my daughter was driving, just after Katrina hit--we hadn't realized there would be a big swath of rain all up and down the country. It was pouring down, for miles and miles so that all we could follow were the taillights in front of us. Brenda driving, me sitting white-knuckled beside her, both of us praying. Glad to get through that time!!!!! ====JACK: I had a similar experience in a snowstorm. We had to follow the taillights of a semi. When he pulled off at at exit, prayer took over.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: Regarding Garfield's troubles, the "worst of them" did come, when he was assassinated after just a few months into his presidency. I remember when I was in elementary school, and beginning to study American history, I was dumbfounded to find that anyone would kill a President. But we live and learn. It's clear that radicals have pluck too.====JACK: After reading more about Garfield, it's clear that his legacy was more than his 200-day presidency. How would you or I like to be remembered only for 200 days out of our lifetime?====RI: Garfield did have a record of accomplishments in the House of Representatives prior to his election to the Presidency. He showed plenty of personal pluck, from his humble life on the farm to statesman. He has been the only sitting Representative that ever got elected President.
FROM DAZ IN COLORADO: Garfield was a Civil War General and on Gen Rosecrans staff at the battle of Chickamauga in Sept 1863. Rosecrans was fired after the battle which the Union lost..====JACK: Another chapter in "the rest of the (Garfield) story." We each have our "untold" stories that people haven't heard.
FROM JE IN MICHIGAN: Happy 2014. I really like today's quote as it reminds me to spend time being proactive, not worrying. I like Garfield's second quote also.====JACK: In fact, there's a whole slew (when have you used that word?) of good Garfield quotes. I think that we could do a better job of naming schools these days...using the name as a teaching tool.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I used to remember the word "pluck or plucky" by thinking of the "p" as representing "problems" that you work through to get to the remainder "luck." p-lucky, if you work through your problems you'll create luck. Others say luck is when "preparation meets opportunity." So the p in plucky could be for preparation, or even perseverance. I suppose you could be plucky in love too. It's a bit of an archaic word, but , I like it.====JACK: Lake Superior State Univ annually makes a list of words that should be dropped from usage (like, selfie). Someone should make a list of words that are worth rediscovering from the past...like the word, pluck.====JON: Great idea; I tried BringItBack.com and there is a site for that. I'll see if I now anyone that has experience with Wiki's the idea would be best policed and produced by users and those that love language and learning. Time to maintain a site would be the problem. I love the idea but it is time intensive.====JON: I had an Oak on my land once, that the tree guy said was 350 years old. I have 40 to 43 years left probably (I presume I will live to be 100). I need to figure out the best way I can leave a positive legacy using fast growing bambo and pine.... In my youth often I was too busy cutting trees without planting their replacements....
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: I live near Garfield!====JACK: I take it that you mean, the school. President Garfield is now in a cemetery in Cleveland, Ohio.
FROM DMF IN MINNESOTA: It looks like Garfield School is still in operation…..but maybe not for long. The Moline School Board has voted to close it. Garfield, situated in a residential area bordering a small business district, opened its doors in 1901 and presently serves 330 students. Garfield Elementary School has long established itself as a viable force in striving for excellence in education.====JACK: Five of the schools I attended in Moline are no longer in existence, but they still exist in my memory bank.
FROM PH IN MESA: was he any relation to Garfield, the cat?====JACK: The cat has nine lives. James Garfield had only one...cut short by an assassin's bullet.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: These quotes hit the mark. I especially like the last one. Garfield must have had a lot of troubles just being President. I wonder if the cartoon Garfield was created to emulate the president. Garfield the cat definitely had plunk. It was Andy's favorite cartoon character.====JACK: The cartoon cat was named after the cartoonist's grandfather.
FROM MOLINER JT: Garfield is closing in 2 years. Rebuilding Hamilton into a modern day grade school. Never went to Garfield but I'll miss it.====JACK: Garfield was modern in its heyday. BTW, what's a heyday?
FROM YOOPER BOB: In 1932 the Finnish Bethlehem Church burnt. Rather than rebuild they purchased the GARFIELD school and playground. They remodeled it which following the mergers became Faith Lutheran. The playground area is why Faith is the only congregation in Calumet with a parking lot! ====JACK: I suppose that most of the year it's used as a hockey rink.
FROM RJP IN NAPLES: And I grew up playing in Garfield Park on the west side of Chicago. Sure wish kids today were given a better sense of history.====JACK: Every generation's sense of history is different than the previous one's. I confess that I didn't know much about Garfield until I researched his quote. The kids of today have history at their "fingertips," instead reading it in books, like I did...for better or worse..
“A pound of pluck is worth a ton of luck.” (James A. Garfield) There was a Garfield School in the city where I grew up. I only knew that Garfield was a U S President. But, now, this quote interests me. “Pluck” means, continuing to do something, in spite of difficulty. Our 20th Pres also said: “I’ve had many troubles, but the worst of them never came.” Somebody had a good idea when they named that school, Garfield. ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: I remember driving home from the Heart of America Debate Tourney in Kansas...horrible snowstorm....had to get out and put chains on my tires...not easy to do in a snowstorm ...wearing a suit...put pjs on over my unit ....made it back to Augie. Prof Holcomb was confident all the way...I was not as confident....more like terrified====JACK: A good example of Pluck!
FROM TARMART REV: We have one in Willmar, MN too . . . it was closed when the town consolidated two of the old grade schools into a new facility . . . the Garfield building now is at the present "a pound of pluck" as it is used strictly for specialized educational activities.====JACK: A church building is a building. What's important is what is going on inside. The same can be said of the Garfield building..
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I remember coming back from Texas, my daughter was driving, just after Katrina hit--we hadn't realized there would be a big swath of rain all up and down the country. It was pouring down, for miles and miles so that all we could follow were the taillights in front of us. Brenda driving, me sitting white-knuckled beside her, both of us praying. Glad to get through that time!!!!! ====JACK: I had a similar experience in a snowstorm. We had to follow the taillights of a semi. When he pulled off at at exit, prayer took over.
FROM RI IN BOSTON: Regarding Garfield's troubles, the "worst of them" did come, when he was assassinated after just a few months into his presidency. I remember when I was in elementary school, and beginning to study American history, I was dumbfounded to find that anyone would kill a President. But we live and learn. It's clear that radicals have pluck too.====JACK: After reading more about Garfield, it's clear that his legacy was more than his 200-day presidency. How would you or I like to be remembered only for 200 days out of our lifetime?====RI: Garfield did have a record of accomplishments in the House of Representatives prior to his election to the Presidency. He showed plenty of personal pluck, from his humble life on the farm to statesman. He has been the only sitting Representative that ever got elected President.
FROM DAZ IN COLORADO: Garfield was a Civil War General and on Gen Rosecrans staff at the battle of Chickamauga in Sept 1863. Rosecrans was fired after the battle which the Union lost..====JACK: Another chapter in "the rest of the (Garfield) story." We each have our "untold" stories that people haven't heard.
FROM JE IN MICHIGAN: Happy 2014. I really like today's quote as it reminds me to spend time being proactive, not worrying. I like Garfield's second quote also.====JACK: In fact, there's a whole slew (when have you used that word?) of good Garfield quotes. I think that we could do a better job of naming schools these days...using the name as a teaching tool.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I used to remember the word "pluck or plucky" by thinking of the "p" as representing "problems" that you work through to get to the remainder "luck." p-lucky, if you work through your problems you'll create luck. Others say luck is when "preparation meets opportunity." So the p in plucky could be for preparation, or even perseverance. I suppose you could be plucky in love too. It's a bit of an archaic word, but , I like it.====JACK: Lake Superior State Univ annually makes a list of words that should be dropped from usage (like, selfie). Someone should make a list of words that are worth rediscovering from the past...like the word, pluck.====JON: Great idea; I tried BringItBack.com and there is a site for that. I'll see if I now anyone that has experience with Wiki's the idea would be best policed and produced by users and those that love language and learning. Time to maintain a site would be the problem. I love the idea but it is time intensive.====JON: I had an Oak on my land once, that the tree guy said was 350 years old. I have 40 to 43 years left probably (I presume I will live to be 100). I need to figure out the best way I can leave a positive legacy using fast growing bambo and pine.... In my youth often I was too busy cutting trees without planting their replacements....
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: I live near Garfield!====JACK: I take it that you mean, the school. President Garfield is now in a cemetery in Cleveland, Ohio.
FROM DMF IN MINNESOTA: It looks like Garfield School is still in operation…..but maybe not for long. The Moline School Board has voted to close it. Garfield, situated in a residential area bordering a small business district, opened its doors in 1901 and presently serves 330 students. Garfield Elementary School has long established itself as a viable force in striving for excellence in education.====JACK: Five of the schools I attended in Moline are no longer in existence, but they still exist in my memory bank.
FROM PH IN MESA: was he any relation to Garfield, the cat?====JACK: The cat has nine lives. James Garfield had only one...cut short by an assassin's bullet.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: These quotes hit the mark. I especially like the last one. Garfield must have had a lot of troubles just being President. I wonder if the cartoon Garfield was created to emulate the president. Garfield the cat definitely had plunk. It was Andy's favorite cartoon character.====JACK: The cartoon cat was named after the cartoonist's grandfather.
FROM MOLINER JT: Garfield is closing in 2 years. Rebuilding Hamilton into a modern day grade school. Never went to Garfield but I'll miss it.====JACK: Garfield was modern in its heyday. BTW, what's a heyday?
FROM YOOPER BOB: In 1932 the Finnish Bethlehem Church burnt. Rather than rebuild they purchased the GARFIELD school and playground. They remodeled it which following the mergers became Faith Lutheran. The playground area is why Faith is the only congregation in Calumet with a parking lot! ====JACK: I suppose that most of the year it's used as a hockey rink.
FROM RJP IN NAPLES: And I grew up playing in Garfield Park on the west side of Chicago. Sure wish kids today were given a better sense of history.====JACK: Every generation's sense of history is different than the previous one's. I confess that I didn't know much about Garfield until I researched his quote. The kids of today have history at their "fingertips," instead reading it in books, like I did...for better or worse..
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