Jack’s Winning Words 7/31/14
“For fast-acting relief, try slowing down.” (Lily Tomlin) Being born in Detroit is one “claim to fame” by Lily. As a comedienne, she was famous for her characters, Edith Ann and Ernestine. I laugh, just remembering. Her advice to those who are living on the fast track is this…slow down! A busy, busy woman knew she had to slow down when she realized that she actually had to schedule a time to see her 3-year-old daughter. ;-) Jack
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I used to put "play" in my work schedule as an appointment. Now, I put "work" in my play schedule. Simon and Garfunkel also sang, "slow down. You move to fast. You gotta make the morning last..."====JACK: India Arie sings: "Slow down, baby you're moving too fast. You got your hands in the air with your feet on the gas. You're about to wreck your futures running from your past. You need to slow down before you go down baby."
FROM TARMART REV: The old Laugh-in
program . . . her sitting in the big chair giving us advice . . . I think
I remember correctly! Learning to slow down in Willmar.====JACK: I'd tune in to Laugh-In if it were on the TV schedule today. Thanks to YouTube, I can.
FROM HAPPY TRAILS IN NOVA SCOTIA: didn’t she do the routine about the desperate caller on a pay phone who has no more coins when she says, “Deposit another diyem, pleyiz”? I think “All of Me” has some of the best physical comedy (like Steve Martin’s possessed-on-one-side body) of recent decades.====JACK: I think that our sense of "what is funny" is pretty much the same. "Wry" might be a descriptive word. This morning, I pulled up a Lily Tomlin "phone operator" on YouTube. Funny!
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: fits with Matthew 6:34, the first verse I memorized.====JACK: Worrying about tomorrow, or the "what-ifs" in life does often consume us.. I remember this little poem by Elizabeth Cheney...Said the robin to the sparrow, "I would really like to know Why those anxious human beings rush around and worry so." Said the sparrow to the robin, "Friend, I think that it must be That they have no Heavenly Father such as cares for you and me."
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Have a few weeks off from doctoral work. I am going to slow down. I believe Tomlin is credited with saying, “I always wanted t o be somebody, ‘I should have been more specific.’” A 20 year old goal of earning a doctorate is pretty specific; I hope I can keep up with the work. I am now waiting for my first grades from the summer semester.====JACK: Like the proverbial grandfather's clock, some folks slow down so much that they stop altogether. You always seem to have "races" you want to run, "worlds" you want to explore.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/30/14
“Reflect upon your present blessings—of which every man has many—not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.” (Charles Dickens) Dickens knew what it was like to live in “the best of times and in the worst of times.” There are the bad days, but there are also the good days. If we concentrate on the bad, that’s what we will see. But if we look for the good, we can find it, even amongst the bad. True? ;-) Jack
FROM HY YO SILVER: True and fair. A good message.====JACK: A sense of balance is good for those who have to walk the tight rope...and for politicians, too. In fact, it's good for all of us in our day to day dealings.
FROM TB IN MICHIGAN: So True. There are a lot more good days than bad. Thank God. ====JACK: There's always the good, if we choose to look for it. Trouble is...we're often distracted by the bad which is saying, "Look at me! Look at me!"
FROM TARMART REV: (v) When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed. When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, Count your many blessings, name them one by one. And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done. (v) So, amid the conflict, whether great or small. Do not be discouraged, God is over all; Count your many blessings, angels will attend, Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end. (Chorus) COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS, Name them one by one; Count your blessings, See what God hath done; Count your blessings, Name them one by one; Count your many blessings, See what God hath done. ====JACK: It is interesting to know that the composer of this hymn, Jonathan Oatman, was a Methodist preacher, a store owner, an insurance man...and in his spare time wrote over 5000 other hymns. Maybe as you sit there at Target, when the "business" is slow, you can try composing a few hymns.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: Like====JACK: Charles Dickens' "Christmas Carol" was a story of the good overcoming the bad.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Too True! I like the comment made by author Terry Pratchett: "Your whole life passes in front of your eyes before you die. This is called LIVING." Most of us are so blessed, if we but stop to "see" it!! Have a blessed day today!====JACK: The pebble in our shoe will often distract us from seeing that we have a shoe, a foot and feeling.
FROM BS IN ENGLAND: Very true!====JACK: Somtimes things written a long time ago have a way of remaining relevant.
“Reflect upon your present blessings—of which every man has many—not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.” (Charles Dickens) Dickens knew what it was like to live in “the best of times and in the worst of times.” There are the bad days, but there are also the good days. If we concentrate on the bad, that’s what we will see. But if we look for the good, we can find it, even amongst the bad. True? ;-) Jack
FROM HY YO SILVER: True and fair. A good message.====JACK: A sense of balance is good for those who have to walk the tight rope...and for politicians, too. In fact, it's good for all of us in our day to day dealings.
FROM TB IN MICHIGAN: So True. There are a lot more good days than bad. Thank God. ====JACK: There's always the good, if we choose to look for it. Trouble is...we're often distracted by the bad which is saying, "Look at me! Look at me!"
FROM TARMART REV: (v) When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed. When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, Count your many blessings, name them one by one. And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done. (v) So, amid the conflict, whether great or small. Do not be discouraged, God is over all; Count your many blessings, angels will attend, Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end. (Chorus) COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS, Name them one by one; Count your blessings, See what God hath done; Count your blessings, Name them one by one; Count your many blessings, See what God hath done. ====JACK: It is interesting to know that the composer of this hymn, Jonathan Oatman, was a Methodist preacher, a store owner, an insurance man...and in his spare time wrote over 5000 other hymns. Maybe as you sit there at Target, when the "business" is slow, you can try composing a few hymns.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: Like====JACK: Charles Dickens' "Christmas Carol" was a story of the good overcoming the bad.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Too True! I like the comment made by author Terry Pratchett: "Your whole life passes in front of your eyes before you die. This is called LIVING." Most of us are so blessed, if we but stop to "see" it!! Have a blessed day today!====JACK: The pebble in our shoe will often distract us from seeing that we have a shoe, a foot and feeling.
FROM BS IN ENGLAND: Very true!====JACK: Somtimes things written a long time ago have a way of remaining relevant.
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/29/14
“Nobody knows anything.” (William Goldman) This quote jumped out at me from an article In The Economist about making investments. “Nobody knows anything!” Even “buy low and sell high” doesn’t work all of time. Most scientists admit that little is really known about the origin of the universe, let alone the origin of man. And, what do we know about God…actually? Faith can be a hard concept, but it’s all we have. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: So true about our faith . . . "Who's on first, What's on second, I Don't Know is on third" . . . the game of life . . . I'm betting after the ninth inning, He will be sitting on His throne and I will be kneeling before Him.====JACK: God is the ultimate umpire. Fair or foul; out of safe at home!
FROM JS IN MICHIGAN: Good quote today.====JACK: I like it, too, because it describes the necessity for faith.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: THE PHYSICIST MICHIO KAKU (ALL THINGS CONSIDERED) SAYS WE HAVE LEARNED MORE IN THE LAST 15 YRS.THAN IN ALL OF HUMAN HISTORY. WE CAN TAKE SOMEBODY WHO IS TOTALLY PARALYZED, PUT A CHIP IN THE BRAIN, AND HAVE THAT PERSON CONTROL A LAPTOP." IN THE MEDICAL FIELD ANYWAY, SOMEBODY KNOWS A LOT!! BUT FOR SURE, WE DON'T KNOW 1% OF WHAT THERE IS TO KNOW, INCLUDING OUR KNOWLEDGE OF GOD: FAITH IS A HARD CONCEPT, BUT WE "KNOW" ENOUGH TO HOLD ON!====JACK: A reader of Winning Words is afflicted with ALS and operates the computer with his eyes. He looks at a letter, and the computer types that letter. It's time consuming, but it allows communication. Recently he typed out to a visitor..." I love you!" His faith is strong. I wish that I had such a faith.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: The concept of faith is used quite frequently in the New Testament appearing (to me) to assure us that with faith we have it all!====JACK: FAITH...such an easy word to say in the abstract. Sometimes, so difficult to have in real life situations. One of my favorite Bible quotes..."I believe; help my unbelief."
FROM CWR IN MICHIGAN: Amen. My father would apply the SWAG ("Scientific Wild-Assed Guess") METHOD in response to unanswerable questions.====JACK: I'm always suspicious of those (including preachers) who have all of the answers.
“Nobody knows anything.” (William Goldman) This quote jumped out at me from an article In The Economist about making investments. “Nobody knows anything!” Even “buy low and sell high” doesn’t work all of time. Most scientists admit that little is really known about the origin of the universe, let alone the origin of man. And, what do we know about God…actually? Faith can be a hard concept, but it’s all we have. ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: So true about our faith . . . "Who's on first, What's on second, I Don't Know is on third" . . . the game of life . . . I'm betting after the ninth inning, He will be sitting on His throne and I will be kneeling before Him.====JACK: God is the ultimate umpire. Fair or foul; out of safe at home!
FROM JS IN MICHIGAN: Good quote today.====JACK: I like it, too, because it describes the necessity for faith.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: THE PHYSICIST MICHIO KAKU (ALL THINGS CONSIDERED) SAYS WE HAVE LEARNED MORE IN THE LAST 15 YRS.THAN IN ALL OF HUMAN HISTORY. WE CAN TAKE SOMEBODY WHO IS TOTALLY PARALYZED, PUT A CHIP IN THE BRAIN, AND HAVE THAT PERSON CONTROL A LAPTOP." IN THE MEDICAL FIELD ANYWAY, SOMEBODY KNOWS A LOT!! BUT FOR SURE, WE DON'T KNOW 1% OF WHAT THERE IS TO KNOW, INCLUDING OUR KNOWLEDGE OF GOD: FAITH IS A HARD CONCEPT, BUT WE "KNOW" ENOUGH TO HOLD ON!====JACK: A reader of Winning Words is afflicted with ALS and operates the computer with his eyes. He looks at a letter, and the computer types that letter. It's time consuming, but it allows communication. Recently he typed out to a visitor..." I love you!" His faith is strong. I wish that I had such a faith.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: The concept of faith is used quite frequently in the New Testament appearing (to me) to assure us that with faith we have it all!====JACK: FAITH...such an easy word to say in the abstract. Sometimes, so difficult to have in real life situations. One of my favorite Bible quotes..."I believe; help my unbelief."
FROM CWR IN MICHIGAN: Amen. My father would apply the SWAG ("Scientific Wild-Assed Guess") METHOD in response to unanswerable questions.====JACK: I'm always suspicious of those (including preachers) who have all of the answers.
Monday, July 28, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/28/14
“You can’t turn back the clock, but you can wind it up again.” (Bonnie Prudden) Prudden was a physical fitness expert, developing fitness plans for children, adults, geriatrics and even prisoners. She wrote a book, “After 50 Fitness Guide.” Bonnie was regularly exercising into her 90s. She was proof that you can rewind the clock. Do you know of others who have rewound the clock? How did they do it? ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: I work out at a gym three days a week and walk at the Mall the other three days...Sunday is a day of rest but still play some tennis on Sundays.....I don't know if that has turned back the clock....gives the clock a better chance of still ticking and, perhaps, keeping time. ====JACK: Those who emulate Bonnie's advice was called, "Prudes." I admire a gubba like you.
FROM TARMART REV: ...not too tightly...I know of a couple I broke doing that...one is a Grandmother's Clock staring at me as I type this line. 0;-/====JACK: All of the clocks we use in our house are electric or battery operated. No chance to wind-up or wind-down. Of course the power sometimes goes out, and the batteries eventually run out of juice. "There's a time to be born and a time to die," as the Bible says.
FROM BFC IN MICHIGAN: That'd be an interesting read! I'm going to look for that one. ====JACK: You can get it at Barnes and Nobel. Bonnie followed her own advice and lived to be in her 90s.
FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: I hope I am continually rewinding the clock. I still manage to keep quite busy.====JACK: It sounds as though you still have plenty of "Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah"!
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Well I probably wouldn't turn back the clock but I would slow it way down. Bonnie Prudden, boy that brings back memories....Jack LaGoff, Jack LaLane, and their was another guy who exercised on tv but I don't remember his name. He lived in St. Clair Shores, near my friend's house and she took me over to meet him. He was sleeping in a hammock in his backyard. Their are a few people I know who try to turn back the clock with makeup and surgery and are marginally successful. ME??? I earned my wrinkles!====JACK: That Hammock Exercise program sounds like a good one.
FROM DOCTOR PHIL: Jack, You have done well with this. God Bless you.====JACK: I am blessed with an "inner" alarm clock which wakes me up at 4:45 am, each morning to send out my Winning Words. No need for winding or batteries.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: CICERO SAYS "TO LIVE LONG, IT IS NECESSARY TO LIVE SLOWLY." MY CLOCK SHOULD HAVE RUN DOWN LONG AGO IN THAT CASE! I LIKE THE POET SAMUEL ULLMAN'S IDEA..."YEARS MAY WRINKLE THE SKIN, BUT TO GIVE UP ENTHUSIASM WRINKLES THE SOUL"! MAY WE ALL HAVE SMOOTH, FIRM SOULS!! :-) THANKS FOR YOUR WW, AND FOR THIS BEAUTIFUL SUMMER DAY! ====JACK: Hey! I'm the one who's supposed to come up with the good quotes! Speaking of beautiful days, yesterday, a series of thunderstorms knocked out power to 190,000 homes in our area. We escaped this time.
FROM MOLINER JT: Oh Boy ! You bet. "Believe" It has been my #1 word for almost 4 years. This not only rewound the clock, it kept it ticking for me. Of course PT and OT played a most important part too.====JACK: You're like a Timex watch that takes a licking, but keeps on ticking.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: I agree wholeheardtedly. Everyone has a different life style. One of my friends here has just gotten into weight lifting. I prefer walking and swimming What about you?====JACK: Exercises each day at 4:45 am, followed by sitting down at the computer to send out Winning Words to you...and to the others.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: I've been chuckling to myself all day as I look at our stationary bike....whish remain stationary. My mantra is "God has a plan." I truly believe that! So far I haven't perceived that He expects me to exercise beyond what I do to fulfill His plan. ( I may be missing signals.) In addition, a song about a "grandfather clock" has been working its way through my memory. I don't have all the words...but the tune and most of the words have made it through the maze. Such a fun day! Thanks.====JACK: Is your stationary bike a tandem? If so, does God occupy the from or the back seat? I suppose the front, because it's best to let him/her do the steering.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: Very carefully & thoughtfully. I often quote George Burns who said, "I'm getting to that point in life, that when I bend down, I look for things I can do while I'm down there."====JACK: George lived to be 100. Maybe it was the cigars...or being able to see the funny side of things.
FROM AMcC IN MICHIGAN: I still do stretches I learned from Bonnie in the 1950's.====JACK: That's the old-fashioned yoga.
“You can’t turn back the clock, but you can wind it up again.” (Bonnie Prudden) Prudden was a physical fitness expert, developing fitness plans for children, adults, geriatrics and even prisoners. She wrote a book, “After 50 Fitness Guide.” Bonnie was regularly exercising into her 90s. She was proof that you can rewind the clock. Do you know of others who have rewound the clock? How did they do it? ;-) Jack
FROM HONEST JOHN: I work out at a gym three days a week and walk at the Mall the other three days...Sunday is a day of rest but still play some tennis on Sundays.....I don't know if that has turned back the clock....gives the clock a better chance of still ticking and, perhaps, keeping time. ====JACK: Those who emulate Bonnie's advice was called, "Prudes." I admire a gubba like you.
FROM TARMART REV: ...not too tightly...I know of a couple I broke doing that...one is a Grandmother's Clock staring at me as I type this line. 0;-/====JACK: All of the clocks we use in our house are electric or battery operated. No chance to wind-up or wind-down. Of course the power sometimes goes out, and the batteries eventually run out of juice. "There's a time to be born and a time to die," as the Bible says.
FROM BFC IN MICHIGAN: That'd be an interesting read! I'm going to look for that one. ====JACK: You can get it at Barnes and Nobel. Bonnie followed her own advice and lived to be in her 90s.
FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: I hope I am continually rewinding the clock. I still manage to keep quite busy.====JACK: It sounds as though you still have plenty of "Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah"!
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Well I probably wouldn't turn back the clock but I would slow it way down. Bonnie Prudden, boy that brings back memories....Jack LaGoff, Jack LaLane, and their was another guy who exercised on tv but I don't remember his name. He lived in St. Clair Shores, near my friend's house and she took me over to meet him. He was sleeping in a hammock in his backyard. Their are a few people I know who try to turn back the clock with makeup and surgery and are marginally successful. ME??? I earned my wrinkles!====JACK: That Hammock Exercise program sounds like a good one.
FROM DOCTOR PHIL: Jack, You have done well with this. God Bless you.====JACK: I am blessed with an "inner" alarm clock which wakes me up at 4:45 am, each morning to send out my Winning Words. No need for winding or batteries.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: CICERO SAYS "TO LIVE LONG, IT IS NECESSARY TO LIVE SLOWLY." MY CLOCK SHOULD HAVE RUN DOWN LONG AGO IN THAT CASE! I LIKE THE POET SAMUEL ULLMAN'S IDEA..."YEARS MAY WRINKLE THE SKIN, BUT TO GIVE UP ENTHUSIASM WRINKLES THE SOUL"! MAY WE ALL HAVE SMOOTH, FIRM SOULS!! :-) THANKS FOR YOUR WW, AND FOR THIS BEAUTIFUL SUMMER DAY! ====JACK: Hey! I'm the one who's supposed to come up with the good quotes! Speaking of beautiful days, yesterday, a series of thunderstorms knocked out power to 190,000 homes in our area. We escaped this time.
FROM MOLINER JT: Oh Boy ! You bet. "Believe" It has been my #1 word for almost 4 years. This not only rewound the clock, it kept it ticking for me. Of course PT and OT played a most important part too.====JACK: You're like a Timex watch that takes a licking, but keeps on ticking.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: I agree wholeheardtedly. Everyone has a different life style. One of my friends here has just gotten into weight lifting. I prefer walking and swimming What about you?====JACK: Exercises each day at 4:45 am, followed by sitting down at the computer to send out Winning Words to you...and to the others.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: I've been chuckling to myself all day as I look at our stationary bike....whish remain stationary. My mantra is "God has a plan." I truly believe that! So far I haven't perceived that He expects me to exercise beyond what I do to fulfill His plan. ( I may be missing signals.) In addition, a song about a "grandfather clock" has been working its way through my memory. I don't have all the words...but the tune and most of the words have made it through the maze. Such a fun day! Thanks.====JACK: Is your stationary bike a tandem? If so, does God occupy the from or the back seat? I suppose the front, because it's best to let him/her do the steering.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: Very carefully & thoughtfully. I often quote George Burns who said, "I'm getting to that point in life, that when I bend down, I look for things I can do while I'm down there."====JACK: George lived to be 100. Maybe it was the cigars...or being able to see the funny side of things.
FROM AMcC IN MICHIGAN: I still do stretches I learned from Bonnie in the 1950's.====JACK: That's the old-fashioned yoga.
Friday, July 25, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/25/14
“If you’re tired of starting over, stop giving up.” (Seen in a Hallmark store) I like to browse in Hallmark stores. Some good Winning Words can be found there. Another saying that relates to this one is by J.K. Rowling: “Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.” Martin Luther, at a crossroad in his life, said, “God help me; I can do no other.” That’s the start of truly rebuilding a life. ;-) Jack
FROM TL IN HOUSTON: This will be today's mantra for my sales team. Jack, I don't tell you enough how much your Words inspire me. THANK YOU for bringing more order to LIFE! I thank God that our paths crossed 18 years ago.====JACK: Being a pastor is like being in sales, too. It's easier for me, sometimes, because of the product I have to sell. Regardless, all sales persons, including the clergy, need a pep talk from time to time.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: At the risk of sounding boastful, I've decided to start a booklet titled "Ike isms", the intent is to add a "spin" on select sayings, in this case I thought that there are 3R's that can be helpful in facing certain challenges in life: Rethink, Reframe & Recalculate..====JACK: You can make it the 4 Rs, by adding Relax.
FROM TARMART REV: Good thoughts to ponder today, Rev. Freed.====JACK: Maybe you can do your pondering at the Ponder-osa Steak House.
“If you’re tired of starting over, stop giving up.” (Seen in a Hallmark store) I like to browse in Hallmark stores. Some good Winning Words can be found there. Another saying that relates to this one is by J.K. Rowling: “Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.” Martin Luther, at a crossroad in his life, said, “God help me; I can do no other.” That’s the start of truly rebuilding a life. ;-) Jack
FROM TL IN HOUSTON: This will be today's mantra for my sales team. Jack, I don't tell you enough how much your Words inspire me. THANK YOU for bringing more order to LIFE! I thank God that our paths crossed 18 years ago.====JACK: Being a pastor is like being in sales, too. It's easier for me, sometimes, because of the product I have to sell. Regardless, all sales persons, including the clergy, need a pep talk from time to time.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: At the risk of sounding boastful, I've decided to start a booklet titled "Ike isms", the intent is to add a "spin" on select sayings, in this case I thought that there are 3R's that can be helpful in facing certain challenges in life: Rethink, Reframe & Recalculate..====JACK: You can make it the 4 Rs, by adding Relax.
FROM TARMART REV: Good thoughts to ponder today, Rev. Freed.====JACK: Maybe you can do your pondering at the Ponder-osa Steak House.
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/24/14
“Why do people always apologize to corpses?” (David Brin) Recently I saw an article about “How to say, ‘I’m sorry.’” The writer suggested that empathy (putting yourself in the other’s place) is the start of a good apology. Besides that, people who apologize tend to have better mental health. Oftentimes we will make an admission of guilt, but fall short of asking for forgiveness. They go together. “I’m sorry! Forgive me!” ;-) Jack
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: good words today, Jack. thanks...years ago i counseled a young woman whose father died very unexpectedly. she and he father had "major issues" with each other. lots of bad blood, lots of angry words. now, she thought, is was too late to reconcile. she was partly right. but i had her go home and write a letter to her father which she did. a week later she was in my office again with a 23 page letter! she read it aloud to me and we even did a little editing. then, on the first warm spring day, i told her to take a lawn chair out to the cemetery, sit by the graveside, and then read that letter slowly, out loud to her father and to believe with all her heart that he was listening. ignore any passersby, should there be any. she did as i asked and i actually think it was helpful. in fact, she did it more than once as i recall. it wasn't perfect, but in this case, talking to the corpse was helpful, i believe.====JACK: What a great story of pastoral advice and the "pay off." It sounds as though the Holy Spirit was also involved, too.
FROM TARMART REV: Always forgiven in my book, Jack ... Hope you can always forgive me!?!? ... I've met a few who were so angry that the didn't want to hear, "I apologize. Can you forgive me?" ... One gentleman accused me of taking the easy way out by apologizing for not standing up to what he was asking of me. 0;-/====JACK: The important thing to keep in mind is that God knows and understands, regardless of what others might think and say. Art Linkletter used to have a radio/TV show titled, "People Are Funny." Funny is a word that can have more than one meaning.
FROM EDUCATION PAUL: WOW...this struck home, thanks. I continually observe people at a funeral of someone they know who they haven't seen in many years...then "we" say, "sorry..I should have called or paid you a visit...to the casket.====JACK: John Greenleaf Whittier wrote these lines,
“Of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these, 'It might have been.” There a couple of other sad words..."If only..."
FROM M IN MICHIGAN: I just did that yesterday to a lifelong friend regarding a bachelor party we had for him nearly 30 years ago.====JACK: So, you beat me to the punch! Good...Now, it's done.
====From M: He just responded to me and downplayed it saying he was told “it was the best time of his life” even though he got quite ill. I’ve known him since we were 12 and have kept in touch throughout the years.====JACK: Things have a way of working out.
FROM JE IN MICHIGAN: This is so true … sorry and forgiveness. Going to funeral for mom and son …. Went to funeral home yesterday. The saddest events I have every encountered. The father and two daughters are handling it with miraculous faith and understanding. God IS with them. Thank you for WW.====JACK: It was good that you went to the funeral...for the sake of the deceased and in support of the family that mourns. You and the others who were there helped "ease the pain," I am sure.
FROM TRIHARDER: Or talk to tombstones.====JACK: Did you know that there are talking tombstones? Technology allows people to come up to a grave, push a button and hear the voice of the deceased? What message would you want to leave?
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Very good advice. Easier said than done for some people.====JACK: If it were easy, it probably wouldn't need to be done in the first place.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I've seen this many times in our ministry, of course...your idea of writing the letter to the father who died unexpectedly was certainly a good one! The focus of life needs to be to live so that as few regrets as possible are felt...I think we get better at that as we age! This is a good question to keep in mind...take care of things while the person can respond....even if the apology is not well received, you have done your part to reconcile. I'm thinking of two brothers in our Elgin church that Bill counseled, who hadn't spoken to each other for many years, when one became very ill, and the healthy brother wanted to go to the sick brother, but felt he wouldn't be received. Bill urged him to go, and he did, and was received with open arms. Both brothers cried, and reunited, and neither could remember why they had quarreled!! So many years lost, but at least they had a few left to enjoy, and he didn't have to apologize to a corpse!!====JACK: Bill's idea of having the two brothers get together was a good one. Sometimes we forget that God is omnipresent in situations that seem "impossible." BTW, the letter recommendation was from a friend of mine.
“Why do people always apologize to corpses?” (David Brin) Recently I saw an article about “How to say, ‘I’m sorry.’” The writer suggested that empathy (putting yourself in the other’s place) is the start of a good apology. Besides that, people who apologize tend to have better mental health. Oftentimes we will make an admission of guilt, but fall short of asking for forgiveness. They go together. “I’m sorry! Forgive me!” ;-) Jack
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: good words today, Jack. thanks...years ago i counseled a young woman whose father died very unexpectedly. she and he father had "major issues" with each other. lots of bad blood, lots of angry words. now, she thought, is was too late to reconcile. she was partly right. but i had her go home and write a letter to her father which she did. a week later she was in my office again with a 23 page letter! she read it aloud to me and we even did a little editing. then, on the first warm spring day, i told her to take a lawn chair out to the cemetery, sit by the graveside, and then read that letter slowly, out loud to her father and to believe with all her heart that he was listening. ignore any passersby, should there be any. she did as i asked and i actually think it was helpful. in fact, she did it more than once as i recall. it wasn't perfect, but in this case, talking to the corpse was helpful, i believe.====JACK: What a great story of pastoral advice and the "pay off." It sounds as though the Holy Spirit was also involved, too.
FROM TARMART REV: Always forgiven in my book, Jack ... Hope you can always forgive me!?!? ... I've met a few who were so angry that the didn't want to hear, "I apologize. Can you forgive me?" ... One gentleman accused me of taking the easy way out by apologizing for not standing up to what he was asking of me. 0;-/====JACK: The important thing to keep in mind is that God knows and understands, regardless of what others might think and say. Art Linkletter used to have a radio/TV show titled, "People Are Funny." Funny is a word that can have more than one meaning.
FROM EDUCATION PAUL: WOW...this struck home, thanks. I continually observe people at a funeral of someone they know who they haven't seen in many years...then "we" say, "sorry..I should have called or paid you a visit...to the casket.====JACK: John Greenleaf Whittier wrote these lines,
“Of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these, 'It might have been.” There a couple of other sad words..."If only..."
FROM M IN MICHIGAN: I just did that yesterday to a lifelong friend regarding a bachelor party we had for him nearly 30 years ago.====JACK: So, you beat me to the punch! Good...Now, it's done.
====From M: He just responded to me and downplayed it saying he was told “it was the best time of his life” even though he got quite ill. I’ve known him since we were 12 and have kept in touch throughout the years.====JACK: Things have a way of working out.
FROM JE IN MICHIGAN: This is so true … sorry and forgiveness. Going to funeral for mom and son …. Went to funeral home yesterday. The saddest events I have every encountered. The father and two daughters are handling it with miraculous faith and understanding. God IS with them. Thank you for WW.====JACK: It was good that you went to the funeral...for the sake of the deceased and in support of the family that mourns. You and the others who were there helped "ease the pain," I am sure.
FROM TRIHARDER: Or talk to tombstones.====JACK: Did you know that there are talking tombstones? Technology allows people to come up to a grave, push a button and hear the voice of the deceased? What message would you want to leave?
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Very good advice. Easier said than done for some people.====JACK: If it were easy, it probably wouldn't need to be done in the first place.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I've seen this many times in our ministry, of course...your idea of writing the letter to the father who died unexpectedly was certainly a good one! The focus of life needs to be to live so that as few regrets as possible are felt...I think we get better at that as we age! This is a good question to keep in mind...take care of things while the person can respond....even if the apology is not well received, you have done your part to reconcile. I'm thinking of two brothers in our Elgin church that Bill counseled, who hadn't spoken to each other for many years, when one became very ill, and the healthy brother wanted to go to the sick brother, but felt he wouldn't be received. Bill urged him to go, and he did, and was received with open arms. Both brothers cried, and reunited, and neither could remember why they had quarreled!! So many years lost, but at least they had a few left to enjoy, and he didn't have to apologize to a corpse!!====JACK: Bill's idea of having the two brothers get together was a good one. Sometimes we forget that God is omnipresent in situations that seem "impossible." BTW, the letter recommendation was from a friend of mine.
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/23/14
“Some minds are like Pullman berths at noon—made up and closed.” (Harry & Joan Mier) I chose this quote, knowing that many of you have never slept in a Pullman berth, or even know what it is. But you do know about people who are closed-minded. That’s one of the problems with today’s world…people who will not consider other points of view and come to a compromise. It’s as if compromising means losing. ;-) Jack
FROM HY YO SILVER: Sadly true====JACK: For some people, compromise is just a word. For you, it's an every day experience. How frustrating that must be.====HY: "Negotiate" is the present-day taboo "n-word". No one says it 'cause it is viewed as a bad thing. Compromise is critically important. Just don't lose your values.====JACK: Think how "negotiate" is important, even vital, in everyday living...marital relation...rearing of children...buying a car...diplomacy...setting of salaries. What does it say about legislators who refuse to "N"?
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: can a guy 6/5 tall fit in a Pullman? just wondering...====JACK: I've enjoyed the experience several times and found the rocking of the train quite comfortable. The movie, Some Like It Hot, has some hilarious Pullman car scenes...One of my favorite flicks.
FROM TARMART REV: The few times I've ridden a train as an adult for any distance at all . . . it was the "club car" with all the new folk and relationships awaiting my attention that caught my eye. ====JACK: I don't suppose that an A of G minister would be allowed to drink a Club Soda in the train's club car. BTW, since you're a railroad chaplain, do you get to ride the train "free"?
FROM JD IN MINNESOTA: JACK: I SAW A BUMPER STICKER THAT SAID "OPEN BIBLES CLOSED MINDS". THAT FITS MANY TODAY.====JACK: I'd like to have Martin Luther here to give an answer to..."What does this mean?" In lieu of that, "What is your answer?"====JD: open bibles opens minds to the inscrutable God.====JACK: Your response reminds me of what Hjalmer one said in class: "You can't unscrew the inscrutable." I learned a lot from him.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: i love their vintage ads with the cat. would be too afraid to sleep in one!====JACK: I had to look up the ads in order to remember. Taking off in a jet can be far more scary than sleeping in an upper berth.
FROM RS IN TEXAS: Couldn't agree more, Jack, As we hear about all the conflicts in the world - Israel/Palestine, Ukraine, Africa - it's a shame there aren't more peace brokers that can get people to a point of peaceful co-existence (with some reasonable boundaries). Nice to be able to agree to disagree and get on with life.====JACK: Conflict is a day by day occurance...road rage, taking cuts in line, misunderstandings in the home and at work...you name it. My step-father would often use the word "cool" to express "peace." Cool-er heads are the ones that prevail.
FROM FLYIN' CHUCK: Sadly I agree Jack! Enjoy your day.====JACK: In the baseball movie, Bull Durham, there's this line..."Sometimes you win. Sometimes you lose. Sometimes it rains." Every time is not a win or lose situation. That's where compromise comes into the picture.
FROM KANSAN DON: I resist being "conservative" or "liberal" -- at least in my mind. I prefer being "open."====JACK: I used to think that way, too, but political circumstances have caused me to lean off center. ====DON: I'll admit I attend the monthly Democratic meetings (don't know when the Republicans meet). My financial 'mites' have very rarely had GOP on the label.
Everyone writes for my support, suggesting I match the Koch brothers. Who let out the secret that I am a "millionaire"? Still I must admit Scripture bothers/challenges me: where your treasure is. . . .
FROM THE FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR: "Night Time on The City of New Orleans - changing cars in Memphis, Tenn - I'm the train they call ....... My grandmother, back in the day, would visit us from Washington, D.C. and she use to take the Baltimore & Ohio train (overnight) to the now defunct Michigan Central Depot - there were plenty of Pullman Cars at the station.====JACK: I love that song. I used to work as a baggage handler at the railroad station in my home town. At night I would sometimes would have to pull the wagon to the train as it pulled in and transfer a casket into the baggage car. Mail was carried by the train, so I would also have to load the many mail bags.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: IT'S BEEN MANY MANY YEARS SINCE I TOOK MY 3YR OLD AND ONE YR OLD ACROSS COUNTRY BY TRAIN TO SEE AUNT JAN AND UNCLE HAL.IN THE STATE OF WASHINGTON.....THE BOYS LOVED SLEEPING ON THE TRAIN! OUR CONGRESSIONAL PARTIES HAVE BECOME SO ALIENATED, WITH PARTISAN WARFARE AND PERPETUAL GRIDLOCK THAT ANY COMPROMISE SEEMS LIKE CAPITULATION!! THE LAST THREE PRESIDENTS HAVE DEALT WITH THIS, AND IT IS NOT LIKELY TO END, IT SEEMS! AH ME!! THEY CERTAINLY ARE NOT IN DANGER OF BEING SO OPEN MINDED THAT THEIR BRAINS FALL OUT!! (MY G.SON'S PHRASE) ====JACK: The intransigence of the politicians is the result of wanting to keep their job and their clout. Gridlock does not get the job done, but it protects the pols.
FROM HCC CHUCK: I think I have asked this B4 but have you ever read " "The closing of the American mind" by Bloom????====JACK: I can't remember that we have talked about the book, but after reading a synopsis, I get the drift. While it's difficult to surmise how a past generation would react having been placed in today's world, I think that teens (for the most part) would be teens, and fogeys would be fogeys.
“Some minds are like Pullman berths at noon—made up and closed.” (Harry & Joan Mier) I chose this quote, knowing that many of you have never slept in a Pullman berth, or even know what it is. But you do know about people who are closed-minded. That’s one of the problems with today’s world…people who will not consider other points of view and come to a compromise. It’s as if compromising means losing. ;-) Jack
FROM HY YO SILVER: Sadly true====JACK: For some people, compromise is just a word. For you, it's an every day experience. How frustrating that must be.====HY: "Negotiate" is the present-day taboo "n-word". No one says it 'cause it is viewed as a bad thing. Compromise is critically important. Just don't lose your values.====JACK: Think how "negotiate" is important, even vital, in everyday living...marital relation...rearing of children...buying a car...diplomacy...setting of salaries. What does it say about legislators who refuse to "N"?
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: can a guy 6/5 tall fit in a Pullman? just wondering...====JACK: I've enjoyed the experience several times and found the rocking of the train quite comfortable. The movie, Some Like It Hot, has some hilarious Pullman car scenes...One of my favorite flicks.
FROM TARMART REV: The few times I've ridden a train as an adult for any distance at all . . . it was the "club car" with all the new folk and relationships awaiting my attention that caught my eye. ====JACK: I don't suppose that an A of G minister would be allowed to drink a Club Soda in the train's club car. BTW, since you're a railroad chaplain, do you get to ride the train "free"?
FROM JD IN MINNESOTA: JACK: I SAW A BUMPER STICKER THAT SAID "OPEN BIBLES CLOSED MINDS". THAT FITS MANY TODAY.====JACK: I'd like to have Martin Luther here to give an answer to..."What does this mean?" In lieu of that, "What is your answer?"====JD: open bibles opens minds to the inscrutable God.====JACK: Your response reminds me of what Hjalmer one said in class: "You can't unscrew the inscrutable." I learned a lot from him.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: i love their vintage ads with the cat. would be too afraid to sleep in one!====JACK: I had to look up the ads in order to remember. Taking off in a jet can be far more scary than sleeping in an upper berth.
FROM RS IN TEXAS: Couldn't agree more, Jack, As we hear about all the conflicts in the world - Israel/Palestine, Ukraine, Africa - it's a shame there aren't more peace brokers that can get people to a point of peaceful co-existence (with some reasonable boundaries). Nice to be able to agree to disagree and get on with life.====JACK: Conflict is a day by day occurance...road rage, taking cuts in line, misunderstandings in the home and at work...you name it. My step-father would often use the word "cool" to express "peace." Cool-er heads are the ones that prevail.
FROM FLYIN' CHUCK: Sadly I agree Jack! Enjoy your day.====JACK: In the baseball movie, Bull Durham, there's this line..."Sometimes you win. Sometimes you lose. Sometimes it rains." Every time is not a win or lose situation. That's where compromise comes into the picture.
FROM KANSAN DON: I resist being "conservative" or "liberal" -- at least in my mind. I prefer being "open."====JACK: I used to think that way, too, but political circumstances have caused me to lean off center. ====DON: I'll admit I attend the monthly Democratic meetings (don't know when the Republicans meet). My financial 'mites' have very rarely had GOP on the label.
Everyone writes for my support, suggesting I match the Koch brothers. Who let out the secret that I am a "millionaire"? Still I must admit Scripture bothers/challenges me: where your treasure is. . . .
FROM THE FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR: "Night Time on The City of New Orleans - changing cars in Memphis, Tenn - I'm the train they call ....... My grandmother, back in the day, would visit us from Washington, D.C. and she use to take the Baltimore & Ohio train (overnight) to the now defunct Michigan Central Depot - there were plenty of Pullman Cars at the station.====JACK: I love that song. I used to work as a baggage handler at the railroad station in my home town. At night I would sometimes would have to pull the wagon to the train as it pulled in and transfer a casket into the baggage car. Mail was carried by the train, so I would also have to load the many mail bags.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: IT'S BEEN MANY MANY YEARS SINCE I TOOK MY 3YR OLD AND ONE YR OLD ACROSS COUNTRY BY TRAIN TO SEE AUNT JAN AND UNCLE HAL.IN THE STATE OF WASHINGTON.....THE BOYS LOVED SLEEPING ON THE TRAIN! OUR CONGRESSIONAL PARTIES HAVE BECOME SO ALIENATED, WITH PARTISAN WARFARE AND PERPETUAL GRIDLOCK THAT ANY COMPROMISE SEEMS LIKE CAPITULATION!! THE LAST THREE PRESIDENTS HAVE DEALT WITH THIS, AND IT IS NOT LIKELY TO END, IT SEEMS! AH ME!! THEY CERTAINLY ARE NOT IN DANGER OF BEING SO OPEN MINDED THAT THEIR BRAINS FALL OUT!! (MY G.SON'S PHRASE) ====JACK: The intransigence of the politicians is the result of wanting to keep their job and their clout. Gridlock does not get the job done, but it protects the pols.
FROM HCC CHUCK: I think I have asked this B4 but have you ever read " "The closing of the American mind" by Bloom????====JACK: I can't remember that we have talked about the book, but after reading a synopsis, I get the drift. While it's difficult to surmise how a past generation would react having been placed in today's world, I think that teens (for the most part) would be teens, and fogeys would be fogeys.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/22/14
“This is Jim Rockford. At the tone leave your name and message. I’ll get back to you.” (James Garner) Thanks to re-runs and dvd’s, Jim is not dead, but I will still miss him. Which of his many “characters” is your favorite? In real life, he was someone’s son, brother, husband, father. Thanks to electronics, most of us can re-connect with loved-ones who have “passed.” Life goes on, but it’s not the same. ;-) Jack
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I enjoyed Maverick. Very sexy.====JACK: He played many different roles, but you always knew it was James Garner.
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: i was a kid when every Sunday night we tuned in to Maverick. preceded by the Wonderful World of Disney and followed by Bonanza if my memory serves. do you recall that Garner also had (i think) a real life brother who was on the show. wonder what ever happened to him?. or was he only a "brother" on camera. in fact, were there not 3 brothers on camera?. may have to look that one up sometime. but yes, all good memories of a fellow who seemed like a very decent human being. did you also see him in The Notebook? a very good film. his wife has Alzheimers in the film and they both happen to pass away the same night embracing each other in bed. not a bad way to go, perhaps.====JACK: Some mentioned The Notebook to me this morning. I had not see it, so I looked up the synopsis. Interesting. BTW, his brother, Jack, did play in many episodes of "Rockford," and in some of his younger brother's movies.====PLH: its coming back to me now, it was Bret Maverick, Bart, and Brock?? or something like that. maybe you can solve the mystery... ====JACK: He had several brothers in Maverick, but I don't think that any were his actual brother...although his brother was an actor, too.
FROM TARMART REV: One of my favorites! Westerns and Detective!! Maverick and Rockford Files!!====JACK: I wonder if we liked his acting, because we could fantasize and see ourselves in his place, much like Magnum P.I.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: jim rockford was my fav character of his. bret maverick was awfully good. but the polaroid commercials with mariette hartley were among the best ones ever made.
charming, the handsomest man in hollywood... he's on to bigger roles!====JACK: I wonder if there will be any actors in heaven, or will we all just play ourselves? On YouTube you can see and hear Buck Owens this song:
They're gonna put me in the movies
They're gonna make a big star out of me
We'll make the film about a man that's sad and lonely
And all I gotta do is act naturally
Well, I'll bet you I'm a gonna be a big star
Might win an Oscar, you can never tell
The movie's gonna make me a big star
'Cause I can play the part so well
Well, I hope you come and see me in the movie
Then I'll know that you will plainly see
Biggest fool that's ever hit the big time
And all I gotta do is act naturally
We'll make the scene about a man that's sad and lonely
And begging down upon his bended knee
I'll play the part but I won't need rehearsing
All I have to do is act naturally
Well, I'll bet you I'm a gonna be a big star
Might win an Oscar, you can never tell
The movie's gonna make me a big star
'Cause I can play the part so well
Well, I hope you come and see me in the movie
And then I'll know that you will plainly see
The biggest fool that's ever hit the big time
And all I gotta do is act naturally
====LIZ: "angel" is a cousin to qc-ian dave learner's family.====JACK: Angel? I'd almost forgotten about him. Rockford will really get frustrated by him. "Aannngel!"
FROM RJP IN NAPLES: I met Jim Garner 37 years ago in Denver Co. at an off road industry banquet where he and Steve McQueen were given an award for contributions to the industry. . He was the real deal. As warm and genuine in real life as he was on screen. He took the time to talk to everyone. I agree, he will be missed. I loved him as Maverick.====JACK: I first saw him as a race car driver in the movie, Grand Prix.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: But for many it is great to keep in touch-for those who understand all of the electronic stuiff. I love it all but I certainly don't understand it all.====JACK: It works out, if you have children and grandchildren around to operate the stuff.
FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: I think Rockford Files had to be my favorite, but I liked anything he did. I now can watch Rockford Files every day at 11 am and I do!====JACK: I can hear the theme song in my mind...right now. I think I'll go to YouTube and see if I can hear it there.
FROM JAN IN SOUTHERN CAL: Your message today "hit home" again today. I have kept Dick's recorded message for our telephone calls. I wait on most calls until the answering machine comes on so I can still his voice. I didn't know James Garner and Dick were the same age. He, too, was one of my favorites. Have a great day.====JACK: The sound of a voice and the sound of a favorite song can bring back many memories. It's almost like yesterday is today.
FROM RS IN TEXAS: My favorite was the original Maverick. Interesting to me that I seem to remember the positive things about those who have passed. Maybe that's why someone said life is like driving a car. The windshield is big and the rear view mirror small. Reason - spend 95% of your time looking forward and just 5% looking back.====JACK: Most minds have a way of sorting through the past and remembering the good stuff. I searched through the movies made by Garner and was truly amazed at all the ones I liked..
FROM WATERFORD JAN: I liked James Garner's role in Maverick and The Notebook, and all the roles in between--of course, Rockford Files. He always seemed like the kind of person I'd like to know personally. His acting characters seemed to reflect his character.====JACK: Someone told me this morning that J.G. had been awarded two Purple Hearts? I didn't know that. Did you?
FROM ML IN MICHIGAN: I saw an old interview of Barbara Walters with James Garner and in it he said he would like to be known as an honest man. He would like to be remembered "with a smile." Pretty cool, I thought.====JACK; Actors aren't always acting. From all that I've read about James Garner, he was the real deal.
FROM JD IN MINNESOTA: JACK, I'M A SENTIMENTALIST AND REALLY ENJOYED " MURPHY'S ROMANCE." I ALSO LIKED HIM IN "RETURN TO LONESOME DOVE". IT IS REFRESHING TO KNOW HE WAS MARRIED TO THE SAME PERSON HIS WHOLE MARRIED LIFE. I'LL MISS HIM AND WILL WATCH RERUNS.====JACK: We are so used to seeing actors on the screen (tube) that we overlook the fact that they are actual people, with actual day to day home lives. 3 cheers for the Garners!
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I ABSOLUTELY LOVED, LOVED, LOVED, THE NOTEBOOK (BOTH BOOK AND MOVIE) , I OWN IT SO WATCH IT AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR....I LOVED THE MOVE HE DID WITH SALLY FIELDS, TOO. YES, ALL OF HIS WORK WAS SO ENJOYABLE. WHO DID HE MARRY? NOTHING WAS EVER SAID ABOUT WIFE AND CHILDREN IN OUR NEWSPAPER....I WAS SO BUSY TEACHING AND DOING CHURCH WORK DURING "THE ROCKFORD FILES" THAT I NEVER SAW THAT SERIES. I'LL HAVE TO CK ON THAT! AFTER MY HUSBAND DIED, THE SOUND TECH AT OUR CHURCH MADE ME COPIES OF ALL HIS SERMONS (AND MY MUSIC...) (25 YEARS!!) AND I CAN STILL LISTEN TO HIS VOICE ON TAPE, WHICH IS SUCH A BLESSING, AS HE OFTEN MADE US LAUGH IN HIS MESSAGES! YOU ARE SO RIGHT...LIFE GOES ON, BUT IT'S NOT THE SAME.====JACK: In the Old Testament there are often references to the fact that generations come and come. It is that way in this life, too. In a way, it's too bad that there were recording devices in Biblical days. What it would be like to "hear" the voice of Jesus? Maybe it's best that it be left to the imagination.
“This is Jim Rockford. At the tone leave your name and message. I’ll get back to you.” (James Garner) Thanks to re-runs and dvd’s, Jim is not dead, but I will still miss him. Which of his many “characters” is your favorite? In real life, he was someone’s son, brother, husband, father. Thanks to electronics, most of us can re-connect with loved-ones who have “passed.” Life goes on, but it’s not the same. ;-) Jack
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I enjoyed Maverick. Very sexy.====JACK: He played many different roles, but you always knew it was James Garner.
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: i was a kid when every Sunday night we tuned in to Maverick. preceded by the Wonderful World of Disney and followed by Bonanza if my memory serves. do you recall that Garner also had (i think) a real life brother who was on the show. wonder what ever happened to him?. or was he only a "brother" on camera. in fact, were there not 3 brothers on camera?. may have to look that one up sometime. but yes, all good memories of a fellow who seemed like a very decent human being. did you also see him in The Notebook? a very good film. his wife has Alzheimers in the film and they both happen to pass away the same night embracing each other in bed. not a bad way to go, perhaps.====JACK: Some mentioned The Notebook to me this morning. I had not see it, so I looked up the synopsis. Interesting. BTW, his brother, Jack, did play in many episodes of "Rockford," and in some of his younger brother's movies.====PLH: its coming back to me now, it was Bret Maverick, Bart, and Brock?? or something like that. maybe you can solve the mystery... ====JACK: He had several brothers in Maverick, but I don't think that any were his actual brother...although his brother was an actor, too.
FROM TARMART REV: One of my favorites! Westerns and Detective!! Maverick and Rockford Files!!====JACK: I wonder if we liked his acting, because we could fantasize and see ourselves in his place, much like Magnum P.I.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: jim rockford was my fav character of his. bret maverick was awfully good. but the polaroid commercials with mariette hartley were among the best ones ever made.
charming, the handsomest man in hollywood... he's on to bigger roles!====JACK: I wonder if there will be any actors in heaven, or will we all just play ourselves? On YouTube you can see and hear Buck Owens this song:
They're gonna put me in the movies
They're gonna make a big star out of me
We'll make the film about a man that's sad and lonely
And all I gotta do is act naturally
Well, I'll bet you I'm a gonna be a big star
Might win an Oscar, you can never tell
The movie's gonna make me a big star
'Cause I can play the part so well
Well, I hope you come and see me in the movie
Then I'll know that you will plainly see
Biggest fool that's ever hit the big time
And all I gotta do is act naturally
We'll make the scene about a man that's sad and lonely
And begging down upon his bended knee
I'll play the part but I won't need rehearsing
All I have to do is act naturally
Well, I'll bet you I'm a gonna be a big star
Might win an Oscar, you can never tell
The movie's gonna make me a big star
'Cause I can play the part so well
Well, I hope you come and see me in the movie
And then I'll know that you will plainly see
The biggest fool that's ever hit the big time
And all I gotta do is act naturally
====LIZ: "angel" is a cousin to qc-ian dave learner's family.====JACK: Angel? I'd almost forgotten about him. Rockford will really get frustrated by him. "Aannngel!"
FROM RJP IN NAPLES: I met Jim Garner 37 years ago in Denver Co. at an off road industry banquet where he and Steve McQueen were given an award for contributions to the industry. . He was the real deal. As warm and genuine in real life as he was on screen. He took the time to talk to everyone. I agree, he will be missed. I loved him as Maverick.====JACK: I first saw him as a race car driver in the movie, Grand Prix.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: But for many it is great to keep in touch-for those who understand all of the electronic stuiff. I love it all but I certainly don't understand it all.====JACK: It works out, if you have children and grandchildren around to operate the stuff.
FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: I think Rockford Files had to be my favorite, but I liked anything he did. I now can watch Rockford Files every day at 11 am and I do!====JACK: I can hear the theme song in my mind...right now. I think I'll go to YouTube and see if I can hear it there.
FROM JAN IN SOUTHERN CAL: Your message today "hit home" again today. I have kept Dick's recorded message for our telephone calls. I wait on most calls until the answering machine comes on so I can still his voice. I didn't know James Garner and Dick were the same age. He, too, was one of my favorites. Have a great day.====JACK: The sound of a voice and the sound of a favorite song can bring back many memories. It's almost like yesterday is today.
FROM RS IN TEXAS: My favorite was the original Maverick. Interesting to me that I seem to remember the positive things about those who have passed. Maybe that's why someone said life is like driving a car. The windshield is big and the rear view mirror small. Reason - spend 95% of your time looking forward and just 5% looking back.====JACK: Most minds have a way of sorting through the past and remembering the good stuff. I searched through the movies made by Garner and was truly amazed at all the ones I liked..
FROM WATERFORD JAN: I liked James Garner's role in Maverick and The Notebook, and all the roles in between--of course, Rockford Files. He always seemed like the kind of person I'd like to know personally. His acting characters seemed to reflect his character.====JACK: Someone told me this morning that J.G. had been awarded two Purple Hearts? I didn't know that. Did you?
FROM ML IN MICHIGAN: I saw an old interview of Barbara Walters with James Garner and in it he said he would like to be known as an honest man. He would like to be remembered "with a smile." Pretty cool, I thought.====JACK; Actors aren't always acting. From all that I've read about James Garner, he was the real deal.
FROM JD IN MINNESOTA: JACK, I'M A SENTIMENTALIST AND REALLY ENJOYED " MURPHY'S ROMANCE." I ALSO LIKED HIM IN "RETURN TO LONESOME DOVE". IT IS REFRESHING TO KNOW HE WAS MARRIED TO THE SAME PERSON HIS WHOLE MARRIED LIFE. I'LL MISS HIM AND WILL WATCH RERUNS.====JACK: We are so used to seeing actors on the screen (tube) that we overlook the fact that they are actual people, with actual day to day home lives. 3 cheers for the Garners!
FROM BLAZING OAKS: I ABSOLUTELY LOVED, LOVED, LOVED, THE NOTEBOOK (BOTH BOOK AND MOVIE) , I OWN IT SO WATCH IT AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR....I LOVED THE MOVE HE DID WITH SALLY FIELDS, TOO. YES, ALL OF HIS WORK WAS SO ENJOYABLE. WHO DID HE MARRY? NOTHING WAS EVER SAID ABOUT WIFE AND CHILDREN IN OUR NEWSPAPER....I WAS SO BUSY TEACHING AND DOING CHURCH WORK DURING "THE ROCKFORD FILES" THAT I NEVER SAW THAT SERIES. I'LL HAVE TO CK ON THAT! AFTER MY HUSBAND DIED, THE SOUND TECH AT OUR CHURCH MADE ME COPIES OF ALL HIS SERMONS (AND MY MUSIC...) (25 YEARS!!) AND I CAN STILL LISTEN TO HIS VOICE ON TAPE, WHICH IS SUCH A BLESSING, AS HE OFTEN MADE US LAUGH IN HIS MESSAGES! YOU ARE SO RIGHT...LIFE GOES ON, BUT IT'S NOT THE SAME.====JACK: In the Old Testament there are often references to the fact that generations come and come. It is that way in this life, too. In a way, it's too bad that there were recording devices in Biblical days. What it would be like to "hear" the voice of Jesus? Maybe it's best that it be left to the imagination.
Monday, July 21, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/21/14
“I wouldn’t have seen it, if I hadn’t believed it.” (Marshall McLuhan) Media expert McLuhan “saw” the web, 30 years before it happened. Where do people come up with those ideas? Archimedes had his “idea-moment” while he was taking a bath and called out, “Eureka!” While I am still in the process of learning about God and the meaning of life, there have been those “aha-moments.” Have you experienced them, too? ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: I believe I'm in one now, Jack...the last 10+ years is a culmination of the first 30 of preparation...certainly enjoying a feeling of harvest time presently.====JACK: Charles Dickens wrote, "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times." It's that way with life; the good times are often good, because of the bad times. Ain't life grand?
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I am reminded of Jesus' statement that "whatever we ask the Father in my name, and believe that you have received it, it shall be given you". The belief that you have already received it, even before any evidence of its manifestation, seems a very important caveat. More simply, if I believe that a person is unkind, will I be able to provide all the evidence I need for proof? If I believe that same man is generous, will I not also be able to provide evidence of that as well? Or, might it be true that we generate, through our own "sight", the kind of personal-world that we step into? What we believe seems to shape us into the people we become. So, as Jesus has loved us, let us love one another. Let us "count the ways" and believe in that.====JACK: I like the biblical phrase, "We see through a glass darkly." Our knowledge is limited; therefore, our judgment, too, must be limited. Sometimes, the "bad old days" turn out to be good...with perspective. Many of our judgments must wait until the FINAL judgment in order to be validated, or not.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: Actually, I have these aha moments pretty regularly every Sunday--after I've prayed all week for the Pastor to have the prayer time and preparation time necessary for her to craft a sermon based on the needs of us and using the personal integrity of her personal experiences and the wisdom to be able to divide the Word and not have anything from the first half of the sermon be an obstacle to my receiving the second half of the sermon, Sunday morning it's aha--a sermon to me pretty faithful to what God would have us learn for now and for us to use as we live out the following week. It's kind of an impressive experience.====JACK: Sometimes pastors think that it all depends on them, forgetting that there are people like you, praying for them...and that there is a God who hears and answers prayer. Then, again, some pastors understand this.
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: i have always liked the line: seeing is believing but believing is also seeing. there are some things in life we will never "see" until we take that first (often tentative) leap of faith.====JACK: I've come to realize that understanding is more important that seeing.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: archimedes invented the vacuum sweeper... who knew? many a-has!====JACK: He wanted to make life easier for his wife.
“I wouldn’t have seen it, if I hadn’t believed it.” (Marshall McLuhan) Media expert McLuhan “saw” the web, 30 years before it happened. Where do people come up with those ideas? Archimedes had his “idea-moment” while he was taking a bath and called out, “Eureka!” While I am still in the process of learning about God and the meaning of life, there have been those “aha-moments.” Have you experienced them, too? ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: I believe I'm in one now, Jack...the last 10+ years is a culmination of the first 30 of preparation...certainly enjoying a feeling of harvest time presently.====JACK: Charles Dickens wrote, "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times." It's that way with life; the good times are often good, because of the bad times. Ain't life grand?
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I am reminded of Jesus' statement that "whatever we ask the Father in my name, and believe that you have received it, it shall be given you". The belief that you have already received it, even before any evidence of its manifestation, seems a very important caveat. More simply, if I believe that a person is unkind, will I be able to provide all the evidence I need for proof? If I believe that same man is generous, will I not also be able to provide evidence of that as well? Or, might it be true that we generate, through our own "sight", the kind of personal-world that we step into? What we believe seems to shape us into the people we become. So, as Jesus has loved us, let us love one another. Let us "count the ways" and believe in that.====JACK: I like the biblical phrase, "We see through a glass darkly." Our knowledge is limited; therefore, our judgment, too, must be limited. Sometimes, the "bad old days" turn out to be good...with perspective. Many of our judgments must wait until the FINAL judgment in order to be validated, or not.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: Actually, I have these aha moments pretty regularly every Sunday--after I've prayed all week for the Pastor to have the prayer time and preparation time necessary for her to craft a sermon based on the needs of us and using the personal integrity of her personal experiences and the wisdom to be able to divide the Word and not have anything from the first half of the sermon be an obstacle to my receiving the second half of the sermon, Sunday morning it's aha--a sermon to me pretty faithful to what God would have us learn for now and for us to use as we live out the following week. It's kind of an impressive experience.====JACK: Sometimes pastors think that it all depends on them, forgetting that there are people like you, praying for them...and that there is a God who hears and answers prayer. Then, again, some pastors understand this.
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: i have always liked the line: seeing is believing but believing is also seeing. there are some things in life we will never "see" until we take that first (often tentative) leap of faith.====JACK: I've come to realize that understanding is more important that seeing.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: archimedes invented the vacuum sweeper... who knew? many a-has!====JACK: He wanted to make life easier for his wife.
Friday, July 18, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/18/14
“Lasting change is a series of compromises. And compromise is all right, as long as your values don’t change.” (Jane Goodall) To be a successful poker player, “You gotta know when to hold ‘em and when to fold ‘em.” I think Jane would be a good at poker, because as a naturalist, she seems to know when compromise is necessary. It’s the same with the “game” of life. When do we hold ‘em and, when do we fold ‘em? ;-) Jack
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: wasn't it Kenny Rogers that first used that line in a popular country western song? hold em and fold em? have a good day, Jack.====JACK: You're right. That song is from a KR album, The Gambler. There's a book, "God Is a Gambler" by Oliver McCloud. God is a Gambler. Why else would He put us on this earth with a charge to do right and the temptation not to? Why else would He fling the stars out into space and set them dancing in giant swirls around each other with just a few laws to govern their paths?
FROM HY YO SILVER: Amen.====JACK: Compromise? When all you ever do is "hold 'em," the game can't go on.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I've found that sometimes I make compromises in some situations and am happy to do that because of a strong belief that something more needs to happen between the other person/persons and me and it is God who can orchestrate that leading to our deepest values being realized. There is a time to live and a time to die.....====JACK: Who wants to work for a "boss" who says, "It's my way or the highway?" Even little children don't want to play with someone who always wants their own way.
FROM HONEST JOHN: When Good Friday shows up, holding beats compromise.====JACK: Even God seemed to compromise when he gave humans free will.
FROM TARMART REV: ...sure comes into play working out of life at 67 and realizing for the sake of the whole good compromise is a necessity to maintaining honored value and appreciation from those who are to follow...====JACK: Now, if you were perfect in every way, there would be no need to compromise.====REV: ...a frayed knot!!
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: this topic has been on my mind lately. i have given it much thought. i think that the ability of navigating change and embracing compromise comes after one has acquired the ability to commit. jane committed herself to a life in nature and compromised herself to the ever changing flow of life around her. what a woman!====JACK: I had a chance attend a lecture by Jane when she was in our area a couple of years ago. True leaders know how and when to compromise. I like onomatopoeia words. Intransigence seems to be one of them, but I tend not to like what it represents.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: Thanks. I needed that!====JACK: We have two nice maple trees in our front yard. Their branches sway beautifully, back and forth, in the wind. If they didn't do that, I'm afraid that they'd break off, and the tree would no longer be beautiful.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: Sort of on the same theme is a joke: If you are asked to join in a poker game with a bunch of strangers & before you sit down you're trying to figure out who the "sucker" is, chances are pretty good that it's you..====JACK: I don't have that problem, because I never learned to play poker. I don't have the face for it. Crazy eights is more my style.
FROM TRIHARDER: Interesting application to Congress.====JACK: As with many of my Winning Words, there is a point to be made beyond the obvious.
FROM INDY GENIE: That is a good question to ponder....thanks...as usual, I needed that:)====JACK: Part of my value system is a recognition that other people have value systems, too, which may be different from mine. That's where compromise comes in.
“Lasting change is a series of compromises. And compromise is all right, as long as your values don’t change.” (Jane Goodall) To be a successful poker player, “You gotta know when to hold ‘em and when to fold ‘em.” I think Jane would be a good at poker, because as a naturalist, she seems to know when compromise is necessary. It’s the same with the “game” of life. When do we hold ‘em and, when do we fold ‘em? ;-) Jack
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: wasn't it Kenny Rogers that first used that line in a popular country western song? hold em and fold em? have a good day, Jack.====JACK: You're right. That song is from a KR album, The Gambler. There's a book, "God Is a Gambler" by Oliver McCloud. God is a Gambler. Why else would He put us on this earth with a charge to do right and the temptation not to? Why else would He fling the stars out into space and set them dancing in giant swirls around each other with just a few laws to govern their paths?
FROM HY YO SILVER: Amen.====JACK: Compromise? When all you ever do is "hold 'em," the game can't go on.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I've found that sometimes I make compromises in some situations and am happy to do that because of a strong belief that something more needs to happen between the other person/persons and me and it is God who can orchestrate that leading to our deepest values being realized. There is a time to live and a time to die.....====JACK: Who wants to work for a "boss" who says, "It's my way or the highway?" Even little children don't want to play with someone who always wants their own way.
FROM HONEST JOHN: When Good Friday shows up, holding beats compromise.====JACK: Even God seemed to compromise when he gave humans free will.
FROM TARMART REV: ...sure comes into play working out of life at 67 and realizing for the sake of the whole good compromise is a necessity to maintaining honored value and appreciation from those who are to follow...====JACK: Now, if you were perfect in every way, there would be no need to compromise.====REV: ...a frayed knot!!
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: this topic has been on my mind lately. i have given it much thought. i think that the ability of navigating change and embracing compromise comes after one has acquired the ability to commit. jane committed herself to a life in nature and compromised herself to the ever changing flow of life around her. what a woman!====JACK: I had a chance attend a lecture by Jane when she was in our area a couple of years ago. True leaders know how and when to compromise. I like onomatopoeia words. Intransigence seems to be one of them, but I tend not to like what it represents.
FROM TRIHARDER: Interesting application to Congress.====JACK: As with many of my Winning Words, there is a point to be made beyond the obvious.
FROM INDY GENIE: That is a good question to ponder....thanks...as usual, I needed that:)====JACK: Part of my value system is a recognition that other people have value systems, too, which may be different from mine. That's where compromise comes in.
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/17/14
“To argue with a person who has renounced the use of reason is like administering medicine to the dead.” (Tom Paine) The family of a nuclear physicist attended church, but he did not. He finally “went inside” when the pastor said, “You don’t have to park your brain with your car when you come to church.” When God created people, he gave them a brain, which was meant to be used. Religion can be reason-able. ;-) Jack
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: Am====RAY: I was using my brain!en!!!!!====JACK: Your atypical "short" answer indicates to me that you really agree with Tom.====RAY: I was using my brain!====JACK: Then Tom would like communicating with you.
FROM EDUCATOR PAUL: Very good, Jack..started the day with a smile!====JACK: Comedian Jimmy Durante used to sing, after (or was it, before) telling a joke...
You gotta start off each day with a song
Now even when things go wrong
You'll feel better, you'll even look better
I'm here to tell you that you'll be a go-getter
Now the way that you shake my hand
Will tell me how I stand
Now isn't it better to go through life
With a smile and a song
Than walking around with a face 11 miles long
Now you know that you can't go wrong
If you start off each day with a song
FROM HONEST JOHN: I actually judged a debate once where the Affirmative team renounced the use of reason and relied on anecdotes....====JACK: In formal debate, do you get penalized for straying from the norm? Are sermon presentation judged with regard to a "norm"? I remember a pastor who kept an alarm clock in the pulpit, set to a specific number of minutes. When the alarm sounded, he stopped the sermon, even if he was in mid-sentence.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: It could also be said that: "Religion is "able" to make many people more reason-able"...Just thinkin..====JACK: When we get to know people as friends, we can begin to better understand their religious views.
FROM TARMART REV: Never was much of an advocate for the Moral Majority and the like...I've always appreciated our government recognizing God and His Sovereignty over our Nation...haven't heard much of that in recent years, and more of abandonment of such...reminds me of the church's concern for the role of the women amongst it ... If they just became quiet and set back, how sad our church would be. May God continue to bless America and it's churches, even though. 0:-) ====JACK: Our country continues to evolve. It is hard to equate America today America of 1776. The role of women...the merging of colors...the multiplicity of religious beliefs...the acceptance of homosexuality...the influence of technology...on and on. Could we forego "today" in order to go back and live in "yesterday"?
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: Like..====JACK: Two days in a row of LIKES. Like.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: LOVE THIS QUOTE! TOO TRUE1 YOU CAN AND SHOULD USE YOUR BRAIN TO EXAMINE SCRIPTURES, AND ISSUES OF FAITH, BUT FOR SOME THINGS YOU JUST PLAIN HAVE TO HAVE "FAITH"...THE BELIEF OF THINGS HOPED FOR...AS EVEN A NUCLEAR PHYSICIST PROBABLY DISCOVERED IN HIS CHURCH EXPERIENCE. CHRISTOPHER HITCHENS (GOD IS NOT GREAT, AUTHOR) OPINED "TIME SPENT ARGUING IS, ODDLY ENOUGH, IS RARELY WASTED"...HE CERTAINLY KNEW THE ART OF ARGUING AND DEBATE; BUT NOT FOR RELIGION!! DID HE RENOUNCE REASON?? HE DIED QUITE YOUNG (52) SO GUESS THE POINT IS MOOT...====JACK: Rationalism is not always welcomed in the Church. Pope Francis is finding that out. Some conservative Catholics see him as Satan coming in disguise. Protestants see Satan in other disguises. BTW, that "physicist" eventually became an ELCA pastor and bishop.====OAKS: INTERESTING ABOUT THE PHYSICIST! YES, THE POPE IS VERY COURAGEOUS, IN HIS SITUATION, GOD BLESS HIM! HE DESERVES OUR PRAYER SUPPORT!
“To argue with a person who has renounced the use of reason is like administering medicine to the dead.” (Tom Paine) The family of a nuclear physicist attended church, but he did not. He finally “went inside” when the pastor said, “You don’t have to park your brain with your car when you come to church.” When God created people, he gave them a brain, which was meant to be used. Religion can be reason-able. ;-) Jack
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: Am====RAY: I was using my brain!en!!!!!====JACK: Your atypical "short" answer indicates to me that you really agree with Tom.====RAY: I was using my brain!====JACK: Then Tom would like communicating with you.
FROM EDUCATOR PAUL: Very good, Jack..started the day with a smile!====JACK: Comedian Jimmy Durante used to sing, after (or was it, before) telling a joke...
You gotta start off each day with a song
Now even when things go wrong
You'll feel better, you'll even look better
I'm here to tell you that you'll be a go-getter
Now the way that you shake my hand
Will tell me how I stand
Now isn't it better to go through life
With a smile and a song
Than walking around with a face 11 miles long
Now you know that you can't go wrong
If you start off each day with a song
FROM HONEST JOHN: I actually judged a debate once where the Affirmative team renounced the use of reason and relied on anecdotes....====JACK: In formal debate, do you get penalized for straying from the norm? Are sermon presentation judged with regard to a "norm"? I remember a pastor who kept an alarm clock in the pulpit, set to a specific number of minutes. When the alarm sounded, he stopped the sermon, even if he was in mid-sentence.
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: It could also be said that: "Religion is "able" to make many people more reason-able"...Just thinkin..====JACK: When we get to know people as friends, we can begin to better understand their religious views.
FROM TARMART REV: Never was much of an advocate for the Moral Majority and the like...I've always appreciated our government recognizing God and His Sovereignty over our Nation...haven't heard much of that in recent years, and more of abandonment of such...reminds me of the church's concern for the role of the women amongst it ... If they just became quiet and set back, how sad our church would be. May God continue to bless America and it's churches, even though. 0:-) ====JACK: Our country continues to evolve. It is hard to equate America today America of 1776. The role of women...the merging of colors...the multiplicity of religious beliefs...the acceptance of homosexuality...the influence of technology...on and on. Could we forego "today" in order to go back and live in "yesterday"?
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: Like..====JACK: Two days in a row of LIKES. Like.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: LOVE THIS QUOTE! TOO TRUE1 YOU CAN AND SHOULD USE YOUR BRAIN TO EXAMINE SCRIPTURES, AND ISSUES OF FAITH, BUT FOR SOME THINGS YOU JUST PLAIN HAVE TO HAVE "FAITH"...THE BELIEF OF THINGS HOPED FOR...AS EVEN A NUCLEAR PHYSICIST PROBABLY DISCOVERED IN HIS CHURCH EXPERIENCE. CHRISTOPHER HITCHENS (GOD IS NOT GREAT, AUTHOR) OPINED "TIME SPENT ARGUING IS, ODDLY ENOUGH, IS RARELY WASTED"...HE CERTAINLY KNEW THE ART OF ARGUING AND DEBATE; BUT NOT FOR RELIGION!! DID HE RENOUNCE REASON?? HE DIED QUITE YOUNG (52) SO GUESS THE POINT IS MOOT...====JACK: Rationalism is not always welcomed in the Church. Pope Francis is finding that out. Some conservative Catholics see him as Satan coming in disguise. Protestants see Satan in other disguises. BTW, that "physicist" eventually became an ELCA pastor and bishop.====OAKS: INTERESTING ABOUT THE PHYSICIST! YES, THE POPE IS VERY COURAGEOUS, IN HIS SITUATION, GOD BLESS HIM! HE DESERVES OUR PRAYER SUPPORT!
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/16/14
“I am the people-the mob-the crowd-the mass. Do you know that all the great work in the world is done by me?” (Carl Sandburg) Something interesting is going on it Detroit. On Sundays a mob of people shows up for mass at some large inner-city church which typically has few worshippers. Is it a way to encourage the faithful?.. or maybe for the mob-sters to recapture a faith that once was theirs? What do you think? ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: I remember how encouraged I would be at Temple Kol Ami to have a visiting "individual" or "family" on any given Sunday . . . I still recall a Messianic Jewish lady that attended at times. Hard to imagine what would have gone over me to have a mob of folk walk in. I just remembered two young gentleman form The Jewish News who wanted to interview me from a call they had received from mother who was concerned I was proselyting her son during our conversations at Tally Hall at the time, mentioning our services at Temple Kol Ami. I asked Rabbi Conrad to join us in his office after the service . . . he was a master at reaffirming our relationship with the Temple . . . I will always appreciate that about him.====JACK: Great crowds listened to the teaching s of Jesus, but it was the ones who followed through on those teachings that made the difference.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: That is a conundrum....wish it would happen in our church! We are predominately "Golden Agers".But still a meaningful ministry! Lots of opportunities for compassion as we serve the homeless meals and the needy in the neighborhood, and the ailing in the church family.....Archbishop Desmond TuTu had it right when he said, "Frequently people think compassion and love are merely sentimental. NO! They are very demanding. If you are going to be compassionate, be prepared for action!" I hope "the mob" continues to worship at the downtown church, I'm sure they need all the help they can get!====JACK: It's like the church on the Sunday after Easter. Even many pastors take a "vacation" on that day. It reminds me of the story about the little girl who said, "Here's the church and here's the steeple. Open the doors...and where are the people?" She had made the mistake of folding her fingers in the usual way, instead of inter-locking them.====OAKS: I DON'T KNOW MANY CHURCHES WHOSE ATTENDANCE IS NOT DOWN CONSIDERABLY FROM A FEW YEARS AGO.....THERE ARE SOME. MOST OF SPRINGFIELD'S THAT ARE FLOURISHING SEEM TO HAVE RELOCATED AT THE EDGE OR JUST OUT OF THE CITY LIMITS. A COUPLE OF THE BLACK CHURCHES ARE THRIVING HOWEVER, MID-TOWN, AND HAVE A LOT OF PROGRAMS FOR THEIR YOUTH, AND MUSIC. DYNAMIC LEADERSHIP IS THE KEY...!====JACK: I remember reading about a small church in England where the church elders complained to the minister, because the church was not growing. He responded, “Well, we did take in one member during the year, the young boy, Bobby Moffat.” Now, you know the rest of the story about Moffat’s translation of the Bible.
FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: I think Glory to God! For whatever reason--if they are there to worship--that is what matters.====JACK: We in the "church business" tend to look at the numbers with regard to success or failure of a congregation. God knows more than we do!
“I am the people-the mob-the crowd-the mass. Do you know that all the great work in the world is done by me?” (Carl Sandburg) Something interesting is going on it Detroit. On Sundays a mob of people shows up for mass at some large inner-city church which typically has few worshippers. Is it a way to encourage the faithful?.. or maybe for the mob-sters to recapture a faith that once was theirs? What do you think? ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: I remember how encouraged I would be at Temple Kol Ami to have a visiting "individual" or "family" on any given Sunday . . . I still recall a Messianic Jewish lady that attended at times. Hard to imagine what would have gone over me to have a mob of folk walk in. I just remembered two young gentleman form The Jewish News who wanted to interview me from a call they had received from mother who was concerned I was proselyting her son during our conversations at Tally Hall at the time, mentioning our services at Temple Kol Ami. I asked Rabbi Conrad to join us in his office after the service . . . he was a master at reaffirming our relationship with the Temple . . . I will always appreciate that about him.====JACK: Great crowds listened to the teaching s of Jesus, but it was the ones who followed through on those teachings that made the difference.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: That is a conundrum....wish it would happen in our church! We are predominately "Golden Agers".But still a meaningful ministry! Lots of opportunities for compassion as we serve the homeless meals and the needy in the neighborhood, and the ailing in the church family.....Archbishop Desmond TuTu had it right when he said, "Frequently people think compassion and love are merely sentimental. NO! They are very demanding. If you are going to be compassionate, be prepared for action!" I hope "the mob" continues to worship at the downtown church, I'm sure they need all the help they can get!====JACK: It's like the church on the Sunday after Easter. Even many pastors take a "vacation" on that day. It reminds me of the story about the little girl who said, "Here's the church and here's the steeple. Open the doors...and where are the people?" She had made the mistake of folding her fingers in the usual way, instead of inter-locking them.====OAKS: I DON'T KNOW MANY CHURCHES WHOSE ATTENDANCE IS NOT DOWN CONSIDERABLY FROM A FEW YEARS AGO.....THERE ARE SOME. MOST OF SPRINGFIELD'S THAT ARE FLOURISHING SEEM TO HAVE RELOCATED AT THE EDGE OR JUST OUT OF THE CITY LIMITS. A COUPLE OF THE BLACK CHURCHES ARE THRIVING HOWEVER, MID-TOWN, AND HAVE A LOT OF PROGRAMS FOR THEIR YOUTH, AND MUSIC. DYNAMIC LEADERSHIP IS THE KEY...!====JACK: I remember reading about a small church in England where the church elders complained to the minister, because the church was not growing. He responded, “Well, we did take in one member during the year, the young boy, Bobby Moffat.” Now, you know the rest of the story about Moffat’s translation of the Bible.
FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: I think Glory to God! For whatever reason--if they are there to worship--that is what matters.====JACK: We in the "church business" tend to look at the numbers with regard to success or failure of a congregation. God knows more than we do!
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/15/14
“Everybody has difficult years, but a lot of times the difficult years end up being the greatest years.” (Brittany Murphy) Frank Sinatra reviews his life at 17…at 21…at 35…in the autumn of life…and winds up singing, “It was a mess of good years.” In the Bible, Joseph says to his brothers who had sold him as a slave, “You meant it for evil, but God meant it for good.” God has a way of turning bad years into good. ;-) Jack
FROM MY LAWYER: Bashert!====JACK: What does that word mean?====LAWYER: It's a Yiddish word meaning, "Meant to be."
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I found this to be true as well. In my time working with clients in the psychotherapeutic experience, those who experienced some of the most horrific histories (and who were able to understand and accept them) seemed exponentially blessed with a strength that those who were blessed with much more pleasant lives can't know.====JACK: It has worked the same for me in my pastoral counselling.
FROM TARMART REV: Can't really add to that, Jack . . . as for myself and my family, "God has a way of turning bad years into good!" Selah!!====JACK: Just as Joseph had his story to tell, we each can give our own examples of how bad has been turned into good. BTW, Selah is that mysterious word that has confused many Biblical scholars. We don't need to know the answer to everything.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: AS THE ACTRESS DREW BARRYMORE HAS SAID, "LIFE IS VERY INTERESTING...IN THE END SOME OF YOUR GREATEST PAINS BECOME YOUR GREATEST STRENGTHS." SHE WAS LONELY AS AN ONLY CHILD, AND EXPERIENCED A LOT OF REJECTION, BUT NOW HAS TWO LITTLE GIRLS AND IS HAPPILY MARRIED, AND HAD SUCCESS IN HER CAREER. MAYBE SUFFERING IS THE YEAST GOD USES TO MAKE US RISE AS INDIVIDUALS! (I THINK I READ THAT IN GUIDEPOSTS MAGAZINE!). ANYWAY, IT'S GOOD TO LIVE LONG ENOUGH TO BE ABLE TO LOOK BACK AND SEE HOW THE TOUGH TIMES TAUGHT US SOME GOOD LESSONS!====JACK: I read this somewhere..."A few fleas is good for a dog."
“Everybody has difficult years, but a lot of times the difficult years end up being the greatest years.” (Brittany Murphy) Frank Sinatra reviews his life at 17…at 21…at 35…in the autumn of life…and winds up singing, “It was a mess of good years.” In the Bible, Joseph says to his brothers who had sold him as a slave, “You meant it for evil, but God meant it for good.” God has a way of turning bad years into good. ;-) Jack
FROM MY LAWYER: Bashert!====JACK: What does that word mean?====LAWYER: It's a Yiddish word meaning, "Meant to be."
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I found this to be true as well. In my time working with clients in the psychotherapeutic experience, those who experienced some of the most horrific histories (and who were able to understand and accept them) seemed exponentially blessed with a strength that those who were blessed with much more pleasant lives can't know.====JACK: It has worked the same for me in my pastoral counselling.
FROM TARMART REV: Can't really add to that, Jack . . . as for myself and my family, "God has a way of turning bad years into good!" Selah!!====JACK: Just as Joseph had his story to tell, we each can give our own examples of how bad has been turned into good. BTW, Selah is that mysterious word that has confused many Biblical scholars. We don't need to know the answer to everything.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: AS THE ACTRESS DREW BARRYMORE HAS SAID, "LIFE IS VERY INTERESTING...IN THE END SOME OF YOUR GREATEST PAINS BECOME YOUR GREATEST STRENGTHS." SHE WAS LONELY AS AN ONLY CHILD, AND EXPERIENCED A LOT OF REJECTION, BUT NOW HAS TWO LITTLE GIRLS AND IS HAPPILY MARRIED, AND HAD SUCCESS IN HER CAREER. MAYBE SUFFERING IS THE YEAST GOD USES TO MAKE US RISE AS INDIVIDUALS! (I THINK I READ THAT IN GUIDEPOSTS MAGAZINE!). ANYWAY, IT'S GOOD TO LIVE LONG ENOUGH TO BE ABLE TO LOOK BACK AND SEE HOW THE TOUGH TIMES TAUGHT US SOME GOOD LESSONS!====JACK: I read this somewhere..."A few fleas is good for a dog."
Monday, July 14, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/14/14
“It’s so simple really: If you say you’re going to do something, do it. If you start something, finish it.” (Epictetus) Epictetus could have written the song, “No Excuses,” because that was part of his philosophy. That, too, is part of the Nike slogan, “Just do it!” We all have things “to do.” I’ve found it helpful to make a priority list, checking off each item with a swoosh as it’s taken care of. Make that list and, then, Just do it! ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: I've always told myself if I had to make a list and couldn't remember on my own recount, I was too busy . . . had to change so suddenly in recent years, as I find myself relying more on my phone calendar now to refresh that memory!!====JACK: I still use a little red datebook, the kind that I've used for years and years....Oops! Now, where did I put it?
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: On that theme my favorite quote is: "If you really want to get anything done you'll find a way, if you don't, you'll find an excuse."====JACK: I liked it when Steve Martin would say, "Well, excuuuuuse me!"
FROM WATERFORD JAN: My dad used to recite "When a task is once begun, never leave it 'til it's done; be the labor great or small, do it well or not at all." Dad, however, never believed in "not at all."====JACK: It seems like people used to quote adages a lot more than they do now. Do you ever find yourself quoting them to your children?
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: It's simple enough to say but sometimes very hard to accomplish. Life interferes with my plans quite a bit. However, there is always tomorrow..."tomorrow I love ya tomorrow you are only a day away"!====JACK: There are various kinds of excuses. Some are valid, but a lot of them are lame.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Oh, so true! (Although Oscar Wilde says "The pure and simple truth is rarely pure, and never simple")....We need those lists, to get SOMETHING completed each day! Such a good feeling, if you do finish the task. Tho I smiled (and had to agree!) with humorist Don Herold, "Work is the greatest thing in the world, so we should always save some of it for tomorrow!" As I age, it becomes easier to leave things for "tomorrow"! :-( ====JACK: I like the song, Tomorrow. I suppose it's one of those numbers that you can sing now, even with out the music.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: How true that is. I have limbs falling off my trees too near the house for comfort. So now I am getting three estimates for the trimming. Earlier this summer I had hit a black post, which was a stupid thing to do. One side of the car was black and I had taken out the side mirror. The estimates were from $2000 to $50. That was the first shock The difference was a complete paint job and taking it all off with a compound and a little paint. That was a good lesson to learn. ====JACK: Is that a typo...from $2000 to $50? On my "to do list" is....Watch the side mirrors when you back out of the garage. #2: Watch all around when backing out of the parking lots. #3: Watch for a police car in the rearview mirror.
“It’s so simple really: If you say you’re going to do something, do it. If you start something, finish it.” (Epictetus) Epictetus could have written the song, “No Excuses,” because that was part of his philosophy. That, too, is part of the Nike slogan, “Just do it!” We all have things “to do.” I’ve found it helpful to make a priority list, checking off each item with a swoosh as it’s taken care of. Make that list and, then, Just do it! ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: I've always told myself if I had to make a list and couldn't remember on my own recount, I was too busy . . . had to change so suddenly in recent years, as I find myself relying more on my phone calendar now to refresh that memory!!====JACK: I still use a little red datebook, the kind that I've used for years and years....Oops! Now, where did I put it?
FROM IKE AT THE MIC: On that theme my favorite quote is: "If you really want to get anything done you'll find a way, if you don't, you'll find an excuse."====JACK: I liked it when Steve Martin would say, "Well, excuuuuuse me!"
FROM WATERFORD JAN: My dad used to recite "When a task is once begun, never leave it 'til it's done; be the labor great or small, do it well or not at all." Dad, however, never believed in "not at all."====JACK: It seems like people used to quote adages a lot more than they do now. Do you ever find yourself quoting them to your children?
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: It's simple enough to say but sometimes very hard to accomplish. Life interferes with my plans quite a bit. However, there is always tomorrow..."tomorrow I love ya tomorrow you are only a day away"!====JACK: There are various kinds of excuses. Some are valid, but a lot of them are lame.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Oh, so true! (Although Oscar Wilde says "The pure and simple truth is rarely pure, and never simple")....We need those lists, to get SOMETHING completed each day! Such a good feeling, if you do finish the task. Tho I smiled (and had to agree!) with humorist Don Herold, "Work is the greatest thing in the world, so we should always save some of it for tomorrow!" As I age, it becomes easier to leave things for "tomorrow"! :-( ====JACK: I like the song, Tomorrow. I suppose it's one of those numbers that you can sing now, even with out the music.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: How true that is. I have limbs falling off my trees too near the house for comfort. So now I am getting three estimates for the trimming. Earlier this summer I had hit a black post, which was a stupid thing to do. One side of the car was black and I had taken out the side mirror. The estimates were from $2000 to $50. That was the first shock The difference was a complete paint job and taking it all off with a compound and a little paint. That was a good lesson to learn. ====JACK: Is that a typo...from $2000 to $50? On my "to do list" is....Watch the side mirrors when you back out of the garage. #2: Watch all around when backing out of the parking lots. #3: Watch for a police car in the rearview mirror.
Friday, July 11, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/11/14
“Paris ain’t much of a town!” (Babe Ruth) Today’s problem for me---How do I find a quote that combines Bastille Day with the 100th anniversary of the Babe’s major league debut? Ruth could pitch and hit homers, but he “struck out” on Paris. A friend is now in Paris and writes, “Paris is beautiful and full of history and culture. The people have a way of really enjoying everything.” Have you ever had a Parisian experience? ;-) Jack
FROM CL IN CALIFORNIA: Jack, You still have. 3 days to solve the problem :)====JACK: I thought that you'd get it...I combined the Babe and his quote about Paris....IRONY!
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: Jack, does this have anything to do with Paris Hilton?
FROM EDUCATOR PAUL: This is very interesting and very appropriate for me at this very second! Got up a little a early today and decided to study my French vocabulary. I just took a little break this very second to read my morning email! That's a Twilight Zone episode...Does this mean I should play baseball today, or, study French longer and harder?====I wonder why the Bambino went to Paris instead of Rome?
FROM RI IN BOSTON: "Ever had a Parisian experience?"...you can bet I have. The Babe probably never got there, or he had his eyes closed. I'll go with Young and Lewis who wrote, "How yuh gonna keep 'em down on the farm after they've seen Paree?" ====JACK: We see what we want to see. The pussy cat went to London and saw a mouse under the throne. I wonder what Babe wanted to see?
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: Our family was living in Switzerland when my daughter was 2 years old. We decided to visit Paris and took the 4 hour train trip from Geneva to Paris. While we were in Paris we wheeled Brenda in her stroller from museum to museum, looking at all the art we could which we had only ever seen in pictures before. My recollection is we spent about 1/2 hour in each museum before she got fussy and we had to go out to the sidewalk cafes for ice cream, French fries, etc. It was a most memorable trip--the Mona Lisa is much smaller than you would think from looking at pictures. And it's behind glass. And old men were drinking red wine at 10:00 in the morning. No other place is like Paris.====JACK: 1/2 hour in a French museum I'll bet Mona Lisa was smiling when she saw you pushing that stroller with a fussy child.
FROM HCC CHUCK: great town many lovely memories of our visits.====JACK: Isn't memory a great gift of God?
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: i have never been to paris. our beth was born on bastille day. she was in paris a couple of years ago and loved it so much she said that if she could get a job there she'd move in a minute!====JACK: So, were she and Babe Ruth commenting on the same "town"?
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Love it. Genius!!====JACK: Thanks for putting the idea in my mind.
FROM TONY THE TIGER: Loved the city, did not like the people (because they didn't like me). I tried not to be the Ugly American. Many of us are, though, and the reputation precedes us despite our intentions.====JACK: How could someone possibly not like you?
FROM KF IN MICHIGAN: I have been enjoying it vicariously since May! From what I hear, Parisians really enjoy their chocolate! Our Parisian friend is coming home tomorrow; )====JACK: Even tho it's be a relatively short period of time, I'm sure that Paris has rubbed off on our "friend." I'll be interested to see...how.
FROM TARMART REV: All in the eyes of it's beholder, Jack!! Very beholding to God and those who see some compelling good in me when I so often struggle with the negative . . . thanks for being a friend and may it always be a good Parisian experience?!?!====Eye hath not seen the things that God has prepared for us----better than Paris, I'm sure!
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: Jack, nice research.====JACK: Although it's didn't get into today's WWs, the research on Bastille Day showed the similarity with our Independence Day.
FROM RS IN TEXAS: Not Paris, but British Columbia (Vancouver Island) is sure beautiful. Have had the pleasure of enjoying it for the last 8 days. Now back to the oven - aka Dallas. But Dallas is home and home is good.====JACK: There are many beautiful spots in the world. I could show you some in Detroit, too. Don't laugh!
FROM WATERFORD JAN: I saw Paris in 1985 with my husband. It was our last stop in a seven-country tour that began with England. At our return we were asked what was our favorite country and neither of us could or would pick a favorite--the "apples and oranges" difficulty. Paris was definitely a highlight and we enjoyed the city tour--the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, Sacre Coeur, Versailles, the Lido, and endless sightseeing. We enjoyed memorable meals wherever we ate, and always friendly people. Babe Ruth was a good ballplayer, but not so good as a travel reviewer. ====JACK: The Swedes have a saying, "borta bra men hemma bäst." To be away is good, but home is the best.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: We've traveled to many Paris' but not in France. It's surprising how many places are renamed around the world.====JACK: I've read that many of the French "privies" are in the middle of the busy sidewalks. Did take any picture for your collection?
FROM ME IN NEWPORT BEACH: I do not know where to find your problem quote, but look forward to what it will be. Bastille Day remains a favorite to many of my good friends, including Clif L. ====JACK: The problem was....Chester wrote that I should have a Babe Ruth quote of the 18th, because he broke into baseball 100 years ago on that date. I was already prepared to do a quote on Bastille Day, July 18...so I solved the problem by using Ruth's Paris quote, My mind works like that.====ME: Isn't Bastille Day July 14?====JACK: You're right! I picked July 11 as the date from a newsletter that I received. It shows to go ya, that you should check (and double check your sources.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: My Parisian experiences have been/are vicarious and fascinating. My grandson is living in Paris. His "apartment" is on the seventh floor of a walk-up and was built over some catacombs. The book that I am presently reading is Metronome ...relating historical and wondersome details re Paris from underground up.(History, architecture, language, religion abounds.
Just finished Paris in the Past....politics, religious, architectural history train ride from Paris to the outskirts. Spurs that were built by reigning royalty. And Hemingway's A Moveable Feast...a memoir of his time in Paris in the 20's. All are delicious reads and provide me as I read and recollect with many "Parisian" moments. I have to share this. A truly magnetic reading.....setting in France and Germany 1930's to 2014...All the Light We Cannot See. One of the most compelling beautifully written books I've ever read. ====JACK: A 7th floor walkup makes me tired...but if it's in Paris, I might consider it. Thanks for sharing your Parisian experience.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: ON OUR TRIP TO ENGLAND, FRANCE, SCOTLAND AND WALES, JAN AND I TOURED PARIS, VERSAILLE (SP?) AND THE AREA FOR 4 DAYS, AND LOVED EVERY MINUTE! THE LOUVE WAS FASCINATING, AND HUGE, BUT MONA LISA WASN'T BEHIND GLASS WHEN WE WERE THERE. HOWEVER IT WAS QUITE DARK, AND NOT LARGE, STILL A THRILL! CLIMBING TO THE TOP OF THE TOWERS OF NOTRE DAME (PANT, PANT); MY TONGUE WAS HANGING OUT LIKE THE GARGOYLES ADORNING THE PARAPETS, BY THE TIME I LABORED UP THERE, AND YOU HAD TO PAY, TO CLIMB ALL THOSE STAIRS!. THE SACRE COER CHURCH ON THE HILL ABOVE PARIS HAD A SERVICE OF FLAGS WITH PEOPLE FROM MANY NATIONS MARCHING IN, AT THE SUNDAY SERVICE WE ATTENDED. HAD DINNER AT THE TOP OF THE EIFFEL TOWER, WITH THE WHOLE CITY LIT UP BELOW US....ALL IN ALL A MARVELOUS EXPERIENCE, AND FRIENDLY PEOPLE. MANY OF THE BATHROOMS WERE COED, AND YOU HAD TO PAY TO USE THE SERVICES....TRAVEL IS ENLIGHTENING! :-) GAY PAREE, AH YES!! WHAT ON EARTH DID BABE RUTH WANT THAT WAS MISSING I WONDER?====JACK: I guess, from one babe to another, you disagree with him on an evaluation of Paris.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Paris is beautiful and the City of Lights. It is a good thing that Hitler's generals did not obey him and did not destroy it. My experiences have been many. The first was Easter l954 when we were teachers enriching ourselves traveling in Europe for five months. They in 1956 I was the leader of 20 college students for The Experiment in International Living. We were riding our bikes there before heading out for Burgundy and the Loire Valley. Then in 1985 we went as a family when Eastern flew to London, which made it easy for us. We stayed for a week at a friend's apartment which was close to Rodin's studio. The last trip was in 2006 with four grandchildren and their parents. t is amazing that each time you discover something new. ====JACK: I just wonder what Babe Ruth was looking for when he went to Paris. Maybe the city didn't have a baseball stadium.
“Paris ain’t much of a town!” (Babe Ruth) Today’s problem for me---How do I find a quote that combines Bastille Day with the 100th anniversary of the Babe’s major league debut? Ruth could pitch and hit homers, but he “struck out” on Paris. A friend is now in Paris and writes, “Paris is beautiful and full of history and culture. The people have a way of really enjoying everything.” Have you ever had a Parisian experience? ;-) Jack
FROM CL IN CALIFORNIA: Jack, You still have. 3 days to solve the problem :)====JACK: I thought that you'd get it...I combined the Babe and his quote about Paris....IRONY!
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: Jack, does this have anything to do with Paris Hilton?
FROM EDUCATOR PAUL: This is very interesting and very appropriate for me at this very second! Got up a little a early today and decided to study my French vocabulary. I just took a little break this very second to read my morning email! That's a Twilight Zone episode...Does this mean I should play baseball today, or, study French longer and harder?====I wonder why the Bambino went to Paris instead of Rome?
FROM RI IN BOSTON: "Ever had a Parisian experience?"...you can bet I have. The Babe probably never got there, or he had his eyes closed. I'll go with Young and Lewis who wrote, "How yuh gonna keep 'em down on the farm after they've seen Paree?" ====JACK: We see what we want to see. The pussy cat went to London and saw a mouse under the throne. I wonder what Babe wanted to see?
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: Our family was living in Switzerland when my daughter was 2 years old. We decided to visit Paris and took the 4 hour train trip from Geneva to Paris. While we were in Paris we wheeled Brenda in her stroller from museum to museum, looking at all the art we could which we had only ever seen in pictures before. My recollection is we spent about 1/2 hour in each museum before she got fussy and we had to go out to the sidewalk cafes for ice cream, French fries, etc. It was a most memorable trip--the Mona Lisa is much smaller than you would think from looking at pictures. And it's behind glass. And old men were drinking red wine at 10:00 in the morning. No other place is like Paris.====JACK: 1/2 hour in a French museum I'll bet Mona Lisa was smiling when she saw you pushing that stroller with a fussy child.
FROM HCC CHUCK: great town many lovely memories of our visits.====JACK: Isn't memory a great gift of God?
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: i have never been to paris. our beth was born on bastille day. she was in paris a couple of years ago and loved it so much she said that if she could get a job there she'd move in a minute!====JACK: So, were she and Babe Ruth commenting on the same "town"?
FROM PLAIN FOLKS CHESTER: Love it. Genius!!====JACK: Thanks for putting the idea in my mind.
FROM TONY THE TIGER: Loved the city, did not like the people (because they didn't like me). I tried not to be the Ugly American. Many of us are, though, and the reputation precedes us despite our intentions.====JACK: How could someone possibly not like you?
FROM KF IN MICHIGAN: I have been enjoying it vicariously since May! From what I hear, Parisians really enjoy their chocolate! Our Parisian friend is coming home tomorrow; )====JACK: Even tho it's be a relatively short period of time, I'm sure that Paris has rubbed off on our "friend." I'll be interested to see...how.
FROM TARMART REV: All in the eyes of it's beholder, Jack!! Very beholding to God and those who see some compelling good in me when I so often struggle with the negative . . . thanks for being a friend and may it always be a good Parisian experience?!?!====Eye hath not seen the things that God has prepared for us----better than Paris, I'm sure!
FROM HAWKEYE GEORGE: Jack, nice research.====JACK: Although it's didn't get into today's WWs, the research on Bastille Day showed the similarity with our Independence Day.
FROM RS IN TEXAS: Not Paris, but British Columbia (Vancouver Island) is sure beautiful. Have had the pleasure of enjoying it for the last 8 days. Now back to the oven - aka Dallas. But Dallas is home and home is good.====JACK: There are many beautiful spots in the world. I could show you some in Detroit, too. Don't laugh!
FROM WATERFORD JAN: I saw Paris in 1985 with my husband. It was our last stop in a seven-country tour that began with England. At our return we were asked what was our favorite country and neither of us could or would pick a favorite--the "apples and oranges" difficulty. Paris was definitely a highlight and we enjoyed the city tour--the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, Sacre Coeur, Versailles, the Lido, and endless sightseeing. We enjoyed memorable meals wherever we ate, and always friendly people. Babe Ruth was a good ballplayer, but not so good as a travel reviewer. ====JACK: The Swedes have a saying, "borta bra men hemma bäst." To be away is good, but home is the best.
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: We've traveled to many Paris' but not in France. It's surprising how many places are renamed around the world.====JACK: I've read that many of the French "privies" are in the middle of the busy sidewalks. Did take any picture for your collection?
FROM ME IN NEWPORT BEACH: I do not know where to find your problem quote, but look forward to what it will be. Bastille Day remains a favorite to many of my good friends, including Clif L. ====JACK: The problem was....Chester wrote that I should have a Babe Ruth quote of the 18th, because he broke into baseball 100 years ago on that date. I was already prepared to do a quote on Bastille Day, July 18...so I solved the problem by using Ruth's Paris quote, My mind works like that.====ME: Isn't Bastille Day July 14?====JACK: You're right! I picked July 11 as the date from a newsletter that I received. It shows to go ya, that you should check (and double check your sources.
FROM SBP IN FLORIDA: My Parisian experiences have been/are vicarious and fascinating. My grandson is living in Paris. His "apartment" is on the seventh floor of a walk-up and was built over some catacombs. The book that I am presently reading is Metronome ...relating historical and wondersome details re Paris from underground up.(History, architecture, language, religion abounds.
Just finished Paris in the Past....politics, religious, architectural history train ride from Paris to the outskirts. Spurs that were built by reigning royalty. And Hemingway's A Moveable Feast...a memoir of his time in Paris in the 20's. All are delicious reads and provide me as I read and recollect with many "Parisian" moments. I have to share this. A truly magnetic reading.....setting in France and Germany 1930's to 2014...All the Light We Cannot See. One of the most compelling beautifully written books I've ever read. ====JACK: A 7th floor walkup makes me tired...but if it's in Paris, I might consider it. Thanks for sharing your Parisian experience.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: ON OUR TRIP TO ENGLAND, FRANCE, SCOTLAND AND WALES, JAN AND I TOURED PARIS, VERSAILLE (SP?) AND THE AREA FOR 4 DAYS, AND LOVED EVERY MINUTE! THE LOUVE WAS FASCINATING, AND HUGE, BUT MONA LISA WASN'T BEHIND GLASS WHEN WE WERE THERE. HOWEVER IT WAS QUITE DARK, AND NOT LARGE, STILL A THRILL! CLIMBING TO THE TOP OF THE TOWERS OF NOTRE DAME (PANT, PANT); MY TONGUE WAS HANGING OUT LIKE THE GARGOYLES ADORNING THE PARAPETS, BY THE TIME I LABORED UP THERE, AND YOU HAD TO PAY, TO CLIMB ALL THOSE STAIRS!. THE SACRE COER CHURCH ON THE HILL ABOVE PARIS HAD A SERVICE OF FLAGS WITH PEOPLE FROM MANY NATIONS MARCHING IN, AT THE SUNDAY SERVICE WE ATTENDED. HAD DINNER AT THE TOP OF THE EIFFEL TOWER, WITH THE WHOLE CITY LIT UP BELOW US....ALL IN ALL A MARVELOUS EXPERIENCE, AND FRIENDLY PEOPLE. MANY OF THE BATHROOMS WERE COED, AND YOU HAD TO PAY TO USE THE SERVICES....TRAVEL IS ENLIGHTENING! :-) GAY PAREE, AH YES!! WHAT ON EARTH DID BABE RUTH WANT THAT WAS MISSING I WONDER?====JACK: I guess, from one babe to another, you disagree with him on an evaluation of Paris.
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: Paris is beautiful and the City of Lights. It is a good thing that Hitler's generals did not obey him and did not destroy it. My experiences have been many. The first was Easter l954 when we were teachers enriching ourselves traveling in Europe for five months. They in 1956 I was the leader of 20 college students for The Experiment in International Living. We were riding our bikes there before heading out for Burgundy and the Loire Valley. Then in 1985 we went as a family when Eastern flew to London, which made it easy for us. We stayed for a week at a friend's apartment which was close to Rodin's studio. The last trip was in 2006 with four grandchildren and their parents. t is amazing that each time you discover something new. ====JACK: I just wonder what Babe Ruth was looking for when he went to Paris. Maybe the city didn't have a baseball stadium.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/10/14
“Man loves company, even if it is only that of a small, burning candle.” (George C. Lichtenberg) Think of how candles have been used in your life…on a birthday cake, at a religious service, for ambience, during a power outage, in remembrance of someone, for personal meditation. Re-read the list and see what memories come to you. Today, in a dark room, light a candle…look at the flickering light. Let your mind work. ;-) Jack
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: its better to light one little candle than to curse the darkness. also, the darker the night, the brighter the candle (light) shines.====JACK: The Christophers use that first quote as the defining slogan of their organization. I see it , too, as a description of what I try to do with WWs.
FROM TARMART REV: They come in handy in a family's bathroom to add a welcomed scent at times!! 0;-/ PS- I know, Jack . . . there is one of us in every crowd one has to put up with!! ====JACK: For responses such as yours, I need a candle by the computer.
FROM FLAMING GURU: A few ago I decided to stop eating lunch in front of the TV. I made a place at the table with my wood carved statue of St . Francis, a simple candle, a cloth napkin. Most every day I have lunch with St. Francis . I light the candle and give thanks. I also ask to be an instrument of healing and peace. This ritual has had a profound effect on my path. Thank you so much for your daily wisdoms. They also have profound effect on my spiritual path. I can't tell you how many times what you say is exactly what I need. Such synchronicity! I believe also in God's mysterious ways, his (or her:) wonders to perform. You have been one of those wonders in my,& my family's life for a long time. I am so thankful for you! Peace====JACK: Some day, when the WWs seem to hit home. print the message out and place it beside a cloth napkin on your table. I'll be with St. Francis and you...spiritually.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Jodi Picoult (author) made this observation:"Let me tell you this:If you meet someone who is a loner, no matter what they tell you, it's not because they enjoy solitude. It's because they have tried to blend into the world before, and people continue to disappoint them." I guess that is our mission, to socialize and give company to some who may not "fit in". It takes a discerning heart! Candles can't take the place of people, but they do, as you point out, serve very good purposes! I love my Lilac scented candles in the Spring and Summer, and the Apple-Spice ones in the Fall, etc. Homey! AAAAH!blessings.====JACK: In Sunday School, we used to sing..."Jesus bids us shine with a clear, pure light, like a little candle burning in the night. In this world of darkness, we must shine. You in your small corner, and I in mine."
FROM JM IN MICHIGAN: What lovely images this brought to mind. Then I remembered the Bread for the World Christmas card photo of two girls studying by candlelight and thought how representational that is, that little light, of our quest for better things for ourselves, our families, our nation. Hmm. Lots to think about! Thanks.====JACK: I went into a synagogue once and saw that the "eternal" light had been electrified. ====JM: How disappointing! I don't even like the oil or liquid wax "artificial candles" that are used in so many sanctuaries these days. I realize real beeswax-based candles are messy and that it's time-consuming to clean up the candelabra, but . . . Whatever happened to the dictum of "nothing artificial in the chancel"? Gone as we accepted artificial Christmas trees -- and that dictum comes from the local fire departments. :-(
“Man loves company, even if it is only that of a small, burning candle.” (George C. Lichtenberg) Think of how candles have been used in your life…on a birthday cake, at a religious service, for ambience, during a power outage, in remembrance of someone, for personal meditation. Re-read the list and see what memories come to you. Today, in a dark room, light a candle…look at the flickering light. Let your mind work. ;-) Jack
FROM PLH IN MINNESOTA: its better to light one little candle than to curse the darkness. also, the darker the night, the brighter the candle (light) shines.====JACK: The Christophers use that first quote as the defining slogan of their organization. I see it , too, as a description of what I try to do with WWs.
FROM TARMART REV: They come in handy in a family's bathroom to add a welcomed scent at times!! 0;-/ PS- I know, Jack . . . there is one of us in every crowd one has to put up with!! ====JACK: For responses such as yours, I need a candle by the computer.
FROM FLAMING GURU: A few ago I decided to stop eating lunch in front of the TV. I made a place at the table with my wood carved statue of St . Francis, a simple candle, a cloth napkin. Most every day I have lunch with St. Francis . I light the candle and give thanks. I also ask to be an instrument of healing and peace. This ritual has had a profound effect on my path. Thank you so much for your daily wisdoms. They also have profound effect on my spiritual path. I can't tell you how many times what you say is exactly what I need. Such synchronicity! I believe also in God's mysterious ways, his (or her:) wonders to perform. You have been one of those wonders in my,& my family's life for a long time. I am so thankful for you! Peace====JACK: Some day, when the WWs seem to hit home. print the message out and place it beside a cloth napkin on your table. I'll be with St. Francis and you...spiritually.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Jodi Picoult (author) made this observation:"Let me tell you this:If you meet someone who is a loner, no matter what they tell you, it's not because they enjoy solitude. It's because they have tried to blend into the world before, and people continue to disappoint them." I guess that is our mission, to socialize and give company to some who may not "fit in". It takes a discerning heart! Candles can't take the place of people, but they do, as you point out, serve very good purposes! I love my Lilac scented candles in the Spring and Summer, and the Apple-Spice ones in the Fall, etc. Homey! AAAAH!blessings.====JACK: In Sunday School, we used to sing..."Jesus bids us shine with a clear, pure light, like a little candle burning in the night. In this world of darkness, we must shine. You in your small corner, and I in mine."
FROM JM IN MICHIGAN: What lovely images this brought to mind. Then I remembered the Bread for the World Christmas card photo of two girls studying by candlelight and thought how representational that is, that little light, of our quest for better things for ourselves, our families, our nation. Hmm. Lots to think about! Thanks.====JACK: I went into a synagogue once and saw that the "eternal" light had been electrified. ====JM: How disappointing! I don't even like the oil or liquid wax "artificial candles" that are used in so many sanctuaries these days. I realize real beeswax-based candles are messy and that it's time-consuming to clean up the candelabra, but . . . Whatever happened to the dictum of "nothing artificial in the chancel"? Gone as we accepted artificial Christmas trees -- and that dictum comes from the local fire departments. :-(
Wednesday, July 09, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/9/14
“I’m the best failure you’ve ever seen.” (Matt Paxton) Matt, a recovering alcoholic and gambler, a social loser, got an idea while cleaning his grandma’s basement. She didn’t just give him money; she gave him a job. That’s how Clutter Cleaners began. He hires ex-cons (who need a job) to clean out basements, garages, you name it. A hymn verse says, “God works in mysterious ways, his wonders to perform.” ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: Now there's a true diamond in the dust kind of story!!====JACK: I see the grandma as being the heroine. It's called tough-love.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: WHOA! I NEED HIS NUMBER! CLUTTER CLEANERS IS A NEAT MONIKER FOR REALLY NECESSARY WORK! SOME OF OUR COLLEGE GRADS ARE FINDING THEY HAVE TO RE-EVALUATE THEIR FOCUS. MY GOD SON'S DAUGHTER DIDN'T FIND A TEACHING JOB, BUT BECAME A BELOVED "NANNY" TO 3 CHIDLREN (CHICAGO) AND IS PAID 3X WHAT HER BEGINNING TEACHER'S SALARY WOULD!! SHE IS HELPING HER HUSBAND THROUGH SEMINARY...FAILURE IN ONE THING OFTEN LEADS TO SUCCESS IN ANOTHER, EVENTUALLY.====JACK: "Eventually" is the key word. Some people want the Lord's Prayer to read: "Thy will be done NOW on earth as it is in heaven."
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: God certainly does work in mysterious ways. I enlisted my family to clean out my garage for Mother's Day. They did a great job. We have just returned from a trip down memory lane. In 1946 Shirley Peterson and I took the train to Colorado Springs and to LaJolla CA. When we awoke in the morning with the Rockies we ended up staying there for a week instead of two days. We enjoyed bicycling in the Garden of the Gods and then she had to return to Moline to work after a week in California. I stayed until August in California. On this trip we visited Yellowstone, Mt. Rushmore, the Badlands, etc. What a beautiful country we have.====JACK: As RLS wrote: "The world is so full of a number of things, I ’m sure we should all be as happy as kings.”
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Sounds like a wonderful grandma! God works wonders with anyone willing to work!====JACK: If the Bible were to be written in today's world, do you think that the Lord's Prayer might read, "Our Grandma who art in heaven."?
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: this lyric was imprinted on my soul after i heard you speak them at the shepherd of the lakes 50th celebration. genie, ruth, and i put it to our own music when leaving the parking lot that day. i can't tell you how many times i have shared it with those around me. it's become a sort of mantra.====JACK: There are so many hymns that are my favorites. First, I like the words, regardless of the music. Then, I like the story behind the words. Finally I like the tunes. When all three come together, that's what I really like. Amazing Grace comes to mind. What a Friend is another. Thanks for being a friend.
“I’m the best failure you’ve ever seen.” (Matt Paxton) Matt, a recovering alcoholic and gambler, a social loser, got an idea while cleaning his grandma’s basement. She didn’t just give him money; she gave him a job. That’s how Clutter Cleaners began. He hires ex-cons (who need a job) to clean out basements, garages, you name it. A hymn verse says, “God works in mysterious ways, his wonders to perform.” ;-) Jack
FROM TARMART REV: Now there's a true diamond in the dust kind of story!!====JACK: I see the grandma as being the heroine. It's called tough-love.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: WHOA! I NEED HIS NUMBER! CLUTTER CLEANERS IS A NEAT MONIKER FOR REALLY NECESSARY WORK! SOME OF OUR COLLEGE GRADS ARE FINDING THEY HAVE TO RE-EVALUATE THEIR FOCUS. MY GOD SON'S DAUGHTER DIDN'T FIND A TEACHING JOB, BUT BECAME A BELOVED "NANNY" TO 3 CHIDLREN (CHICAGO) AND IS PAID 3X WHAT HER BEGINNING TEACHER'S SALARY WOULD!! SHE IS HELPING HER HUSBAND THROUGH SEMINARY...FAILURE IN ONE THING OFTEN LEADS TO SUCCESS IN ANOTHER, EVENTUALLY.====JACK: "Eventually" is the key word. Some people want the Lord's Prayer to read: "Thy will be done NOW on earth as it is in heaven."
FROM TAMPA SHIRL: God certainly does work in mysterious ways. I enlisted my family to clean out my garage for Mother's Day. They did a great job. We have just returned from a trip down memory lane. In 1946 Shirley Peterson and I took the train to Colorado Springs and to LaJolla CA. When we awoke in the morning with the Rockies we ended up staying there for a week instead of two days. We enjoyed bicycling in the Garden of the Gods and then she had to return to Moline to work after a week in California. I stayed until August in California. On this trip we visited Yellowstone, Mt. Rushmore, the Badlands, etc. What a beautiful country we have.====JACK: As RLS wrote: "The world is so full of a number of things, I ’m sure we should all be as happy as kings.”
FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Sounds like a wonderful grandma! God works wonders with anyone willing to work!====JACK: If the Bible were to be written in today's world, do you think that the Lord's Prayer might read, "Our Grandma who art in heaven."?
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: this lyric was imprinted on my soul after i heard you speak them at the shepherd of the lakes 50th celebration. genie, ruth, and i put it to our own music when leaving the parking lot that day. i can't tell you how many times i have shared it with those around me. it's become a sort of mantra.====JACK: There are so many hymns that are my favorites. First, I like the words, regardless of the music. Then, I like the story behind the words. Finally I like the tunes. When all three come together, that's what I really like. Amazing Grace comes to mind. What a Friend is another. Thanks for being a friend.
Tuesday, July 08, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/8/14
“The one thing that can solve our problems is dancing.” (James Brown) We once had someone do a ballet in church to the music of the Lord’s Prayer. Beautiful! A recent NY Times article told about a new dance called, Jookin, which combines ballet and rap. It can be danced to various kinds of music…classical, rock n roll and probably church music, too. Watch Lil Buck do it on YouTube. What dances do you like? ;-) Jack
FROM RJP IN NAPLES: I danced for two miles Friday in the Naples 4th of July Parade. I carry the flag to lead the Republican Trolley ( float ). I danced to the music of the High School marching band in front and leading the Wounded Warriors behind us. My daughter, grandson and great grandson were with me. 4 Generations marching for Pride in America. The Naples community has great parades on St. Patricks Day, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving, and we usually get upwards of 10,000 people. It is really wonderful.====JACK: That's amazing...that an old fogey can dance for 2 miles.
FROM TARMART REV: "What dances do you like?" . . . The one I'm anxious to watch you do first, Jack . . . I'll see if I can get the beat and hang of it before trying it out in public, myself!! ====JACK: I tried dancing twice, and both times were disasters. Now, I just watch and comment.
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: i'm with james. i love to dance. mark and i went to see the musical "brigadoon" last week. the dancing was amazing! it was at the goodman theatre which has quite a small stage. i am in awe of how so much energy and movement can happen in such a small area. thrilling!====JACK: I like the scene in The Blues Brothers movie where James Brown dances in church. Such enthusiasm. BTW, enthusiasm means...Filled with the Spirit.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I like African dancing. One of our church members took some adult education lesson on African dancing and then, at the end of the VBS, all the kids were playing some home-made drums, the boombox was going with some drum music and we were all trying to dance African dancing. That was a lot of fun!!!!! ====JACK: The fun might have continued if the kids and teachers could have danced during the Sunday worship service.
FROM LOUIE IN MICHIGAN: A new movie about James Brown is to be released August 1. Watch the trailer http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2473602/ ====JACK: James Brown does have some magical feet.
FROM DAIRYLAND DONNA: The twist was always my favorite. Now you know how old I am. ====JACK: FROM DAIRYLAND DONNA: The twist was always my favorite. Now you know how old I am.====JACK: If you can do (used to) the Twist, you can also probably do the Watusi, the Mashed Potato and the Funky Chicken. Some "church people" said that the Twist was too provocative.====DONNA: Yes, yes and yes. Wonder what those "church people" would think watching kid's version of dancing today.====JACK: Times have changed, both inside and outside of the church....mostly for the better, in my opinion.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: What a neat quote! Ah yes, to move to music is therapeutic for sure! At one time "Being a Smooth Dancer" was at the top of my list for a husband!! HA! But I matured, eventually...We had teen-age dancers in our church, a couple of whom were members of Springfield Ballet Company, and I loved to watch them move to hymns and Christian Songs....Dressed very demurely in black leotards, with pink sashes, and yet the first few times I had them perform, a couple of "old" people said, "My father would turn over in his grave to see this happening in the Sanctuary!!" They got used to it, and even enjoyed it after awhile. (One apologized to me, for being negative about it !) I think our Loving Lord enjoyed laughter, joyous singing and dancing and enthusiastic playing of instruments! It frees the spirit!!====JACK: In my first congregation there was a man who knew a lot about Indian lore and gathered a group of children to share with them some of his knowledge. One of the things he taught was Indian dancing complete with tom toms. A member of the church complained to me, because she believed those dances to be to a false God. I don't believe her complaint rose to the level of bringing it to the Church Council.
“The one thing that can solve our problems is dancing.” (James Brown) We once had someone do a ballet in church to the music of the Lord’s Prayer. Beautiful! A recent NY Times article told about a new dance called, Jookin, which combines ballet and rap. It can be danced to various kinds of music…classical, rock n roll and probably church music, too. Watch Lil Buck do it on YouTube. What dances do you like? ;-) Jack
FROM RJP IN NAPLES: I danced for two miles Friday in the Naples 4th of July Parade. I carry the flag to lead the Republican Trolley ( float ). I danced to the music of the High School marching band in front and leading the Wounded Warriors behind us. My daughter, grandson and great grandson were with me. 4 Generations marching for Pride in America. The Naples community has great parades on St. Patricks Day, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving, and we usually get upwards of 10,000 people. It is really wonderful.====JACK: That's amazing...that an old fogey can dance for 2 miles.
FROM TARMART REV: "What dances do you like?" . . . The one I'm anxious to watch you do first, Jack . . . I'll see if I can get the beat and hang of it before trying it out in public, myself!! ====JACK: I tried dancing twice, and both times were disasters. Now, I just watch and comment.
FROM PEPPERMINT MARY: i'm with james. i love to dance. mark and i went to see the musical "brigadoon" last week. the dancing was amazing! it was at the goodman theatre which has quite a small stage. i am in awe of how so much energy and movement can happen in such a small area. thrilling!====JACK: I like the scene in The Blues Brothers movie where James Brown dances in church. Such enthusiasm. BTW, enthusiasm means...Filled with the Spirit.
FROM SHARIN' SHARON: I like African dancing. One of our church members took some adult education lesson on African dancing and then, at the end of the VBS, all the kids were playing some home-made drums, the boombox was going with some drum music and we were all trying to dance African dancing. That was a lot of fun!!!!! ====JACK: The fun might have continued if the kids and teachers could have danced during the Sunday worship service.
FROM LOUIE IN MICHIGAN: A new movie about James Brown is to be released August 1. Watch the trailer http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2473602/ ====JACK: James Brown does have some magical feet.
FROM DAIRYLAND DONNA: The twist was always my favorite. Now you know how old I am. ====JACK: FROM DAIRYLAND DONNA: The twist was always my favorite. Now you know how old I am.====JACK: If you can do (used to) the Twist, you can also probably do the Watusi, the Mashed Potato and the Funky Chicken. Some "church people" said that the Twist was too provocative.====DONNA: Yes, yes and yes. Wonder what those "church people" would think watching kid's version of dancing today.====JACK: Times have changed, both inside and outside of the church....mostly for the better, in my opinion.
FROM BLAZING OAKS: What a neat quote! Ah yes, to move to music is therapeutic for sure! At one time "Being a Smooth Dancer" was at the top of my list for a husband!! HA! But I matured, eventually...We had teen-age dancers in our church, a couple of whom were members of Springfield Ballet Company, and I loved to watch them move to hymns and Christian Songs....Dressed very demurely in black leotards, with pink sashes, and yet the first few times I had them perform, a couple of "old" people said, "My father would turn over in his grave to see this happening in the Sanctuary!!" They got used to it, and even enjoyed it after awhile. (One apologized to me, for being negative about it !) I think our Loving Lord enjoyed laughter, joyous singing and dancing and enthusiastic playing of instruments! It frees the spirit!!====JACK: In my first congregation there was a man who knew a lot about Indian lore and gathered a group of children to share with them some of his knowledge. One of the things he taught was Indian dancing complete with tom toms. A member of the church complained to me, because she believed those dances to be to a false God. I don't believe her complaint rose to the level of bringing it to the Church Council.
Monday, July 07, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/7/14
“Never give up, no matter what!” (Louis Zamperini) I intended to use this quote at Christmastime when a movie about him is set to be released; but he died last week, and his words can’t wait. Shot down in WW 2, adrift on the Pacific for 47 days, captured and tortured as a POW. Louis became an inspirational Christian speaker, with “Never give up!” as one of his themes. Zamperini practiced what he preached. ;-) Jack
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I "heard" the book-on-tape on a trip to Arizona. It was captivating. What a life! His story is incredible indeed. "Unbroken" is a perfect title describing his experiences, one after the other. I kept thinking throughout the entire book, "are you kidding!" His suffering seemed worse than a modern-day story of Job. The best part, was how he utilized all that suffering for constructive use.====JACK: One of the good things about quotes used for Winning Words... They serve to whet the appetite for knowing "the rest of the story." "Unbroken" is on my list of books to read.
FROM TARMART REV: Always amazed at some of these folk who have gone through such drama and trauma, and come out at the end was such great testimonies of God's presence and protectiveness through it all . . . I'm become spellbound in listening.====JACK: Someone in the future may talk about you in the same way. "Do you know what Great Grandpa Paul used to do? Can you believe it?"
FROM PH IN MINNESOTA: i am trying to read his book right now but this has been a very busy summer! where in the world did June go??====JACK: June has gone where every other month has gone...and where Louis Zamperini has gone...and where you and I will go. Have you ever sung...
I’m but a stranger here, Heaven is my home; Earth is a desert drear, Heaven is my home; Danger and sorrow stand Round me on every hand; Heaven is my fatherland, Heaven is my home. ====PH: i sang it many times as a kid our of that old Augustana hymn book, if i remember correctly. i have always liked that line: you can be so heavenly minded that you are no earthly good! but you can also be so earthly minded that you are no heavenly good either!====JACK: It's interesting to note that the composer of the music for the hymn was Sir Arthur Sullivan (Gilbert and Sullivan) who also wrote the music for Onward, Christian Soldiers.
FROM HCC CHUCK: I recommend you read the new book about Zamperini "unbroken". ====JACK: Others have said the same thing. The movie will probably be popular, too.
FROM RS IN TEXAS: Sorry to hear about Louis. Unbroken was a great book - hope the movie does it (and him) justice.====JACK: It's not unusual for someone in their 90s to die. It's amazing that he lived as long as he did, considering his "close" calls.
FROM SB IN MICHIGAN: Our Amazing Grace book group read the book, Unbroken, about Louis Zamperini a couple of years ago. An inspiring story of faith, courage and perseverance…====JACK:
Stories like Zamperini's are an encouragement to others who, may at times, think that there's no way out of a troubled situation.
FROM JE IN MICHIGAN: The book "Unbroken," has been a best seller for years. I'm going to try to read it this summer.====JACK: For me, too....except I've got to finish The Marigold Hotel first.
FROM PILOT TOM: The book written about his life's experiences, Unbroken, is very inspirational and truly, he never gave up!!====JACK: As flier, can you imagine going down in the Pacific Ocean and being on a raft for almost 2 months?
“Never give up, no matter what!” (Louis Zamperini) I intended to use this quote at Christmastime when a movie about him is set to be released; but he died last week, and his words can’t wait. Shot down in WW 2, adrift on the Pacific for 47 days, captured and tortured as a POW. Louis became an inspirational Christian speaker, with “Never give up!” as one of his themes. Zamperini practiced what he preached. ;-) Jack
FROM MICHIZONA RAY: I "heard" the book-on-tape on a trip to Arizona. It was captivating. What a life! His story is incredible indeed. "Unbroken" is a perfect title describing his experiences, one after the other. I kept thinking throughout the entire book, "are you kidding!" His suffering seemed worse than a modern-day story of Job. The best part, was how he utilized all that suffering for constructive use.====JACK: One of the good things about quotes used for Winning Words... They serve to whet the appetite for knowing "the rest of the story." "Unbroken" is on my list of books to read.
FROM TARMART REV: Always amazed at some of these folk who have gone through such drama and trauma, and come out at the end was such great testimonies of God's presence and protectiveness through it all . . . I'm become spellbound in listening.====JACK: Someone in the future may talk about you in the same way. "Do you know what Great Grandpa Paul used to do? Can you believe it?"
FROM PH IN MINNESOTA: i am trying to read his book right now but this has been a very busy summer! where in the world did June go??====JACK: June has gone where every other month has gone...and where Louis Zamperini has gone...and where you and I will go. Have you ever sung...
I’m but a stranger here, Heaven is my home; Earth is a desert drear, Heaven is my home; Danger and sorrow stand Round me on every hand; Heaven is my fatherland, Heaven is my home. ====PH: i sang it many times as a kid our of that old Augustana hymn book, if i remember correctly. i have always liked that line: you can be so heavenly minded that you are no earthly good! but you can also be so earthly minded that you are no heavenly good either!====JACK: It's interesting to note that the composer of the music for the hymn was Sir Arthur Sullivan (Gilbert and Sullivan) who also wrote the music for Onward, Christian Soldiers.
FROM HCC CHUCK: I recommend you read the new book about Zamperini "unbroken". ====JACK: Others have said the same thing. The movie will probably be popular, too.
FROM RS IN TEXAS: Sorry to hear about Louis. Unbroken was a great book - hope the movie does it (and him) justice.====JACK: It's not unusual for someone in their 90s to die. It's amazing that he lived as long as he did, considering his "close" calls.
FROM SB IN MICHIGAN: Our Amazing Grace book group read the book, Unbroken, about Louis Zamperini a couple of years ago. An inspiring story of faith, courage and perseverance…====JACK:
Stories like Zamperini's are an encouragement to others who, may at times, think that there's no way out of a troubled situation.
FROM JE IN MICHIGAN: The book "Unbroken," has been a best seller for years. I'm going to try to read it this summer.====JACK: For me, too....except I've got to finish The Marigold Hotel first.
FROM PILOT TOM: The book written about his life's experiences, Unbroken, is very inspirational and truly, he never gave up!!====JACK: As flier, can you imagine going down in the Pacific Ocean and being on a raft for almost 2 months?
Thursday, July 03, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/3/14
“Everything will be all right in the end. If it’s not all right, it’s not the end.” (From The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel--British Film) The “Marigold” is a movie about a hotel for pensioners and all that goes along with being elderly…loneliness, limitations and even romance. It says that, in spite of all the pains and mind-games, life and love can begin again. Today’s quote is just one of many that makes sense for all agers. ;-) Jack
FROM RJP IN NAPLES: It was a super movie.====JACK: I think I'll get the book from the library.
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: Often when we lose hope and think this is the end, GOD smiles from above and says, "Relax, friend, it's just a bend, not the end!"====JACK: Thanks for the good follow up to today's WWs.
FROM TARMART REV: Brings back my old reliable: "The best is yet to come!"====JACK: That's what "faith" is all about...Not knowing, but believing!
FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: I loved that movie. So funny but with a real message!====JACK: The library just notified me that the book is on hold. I could have had the movie, but chose the book...Maybe the movie, later.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: Like.====JACK: People facing difficulties, which seem like the end, need to be comforted and assured.
“Everything will be all right in the end. If it’s not all right, it’s not the end.” (From The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel--British Film) The “Marigold” is a movie about a hotel for pensioners and all that goes along with being elderly…loneliness, limitations and even romance. It says that, in spite of all the pains and mind-games, life and love can begin again. Today’s quote is just one of many that makes sense for all agers. ;-) Jack
FROM RJP IN NAPLES: It was a super movie.====JACK: I think I'll get the book from the library.
FROM FM IN WISCONSIN: Often when we lose hope and think this is the end, GOD smiles from above and says, "Relax, friend, it's just a bend, not the end!"====JACK: Thanks for the good follow up to today's WWs.
FROM TARMART REV: Brings back my old reliable: "The best is yet to come!"====JACK: That's what "faith" is all about...Not knowing, but believing!
FROM GUSTIE MARLYS: I loved that movie. So funny but with a real message!====JACK: The library just notified me that the book is on hold. I could have had the movie, but chose the book...Maybe the movie, later.
FROM FACEBOOK LIZ: Like.====JACK: People facing difficulties, which seem like the end, need to be comforted and assured.
Tuesday, July 01, 2014
Jack’s Winning Words 7/1/14
“Stubbornness is also determination. It’s simply a matter of changing won’t power to will power.” (Peter McWilliams) A characteristic of the “terrible-2s” is stubbornness. It reoccurs in some teens and even in some legislators. An M.D. gives 13 suggestions for handling stubbornness, one of which is hypnosis. Carnegie’s “How to Win Friends and Influence People” is a good starting point for changing “I Won’t” to “I Will.” ;-) Jack
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Won't power to Will power is a significant step~ Like Joni loves the word "impossible"~ ;-) Reminds me of Jack Dempsey (the boxer) saying "A Champion is one who gets up when he can't"...Like most characteristics, stubbornness can be a good thing, or a very frustrating thing, depending on situations and circumstances. Bill's dad who just graduated from the 8th grade, but served as Pres. of the Scool Bd., Rotary, Shriners, etc etc.. took Dale Carnegies' course "How to Win Friends and Influence People" (He owned a Construction Co.) and said it was immensely helpful to him! I'm sure we could all benefit from reading his book!
“Stubbornness is also determination. It’s simply a matter of changing won’t power to will power.” (Peter McWilliams) A characteristic of the “terrible-2s” is stubbornness. It reoccurs in some teens and even in some legislators. An M.D. gives 13 suggestions for handling stubbornness, one of which is hypnosis. Carnegie’s “How to Win Friends and Influence People” is a good starting point for changing “I Won’t” to “I Will.” ;-) Jack
FROM BLAZING OAKS: Won't power to Will power is a significant step~ Like Joni loves the word "impossible"~ ;-) Reminds me of Jack Dempsey (the boxer) saying "A Champion is one who gets up when he can't"...Like most characteristics, stubbornness can be a good thing, or a very frustrating thing, depending on situations and circumstances. Bill's dad who just graduated from the 8th grade, but served as Pres. of the Scool Bd., Rotary, Shriners, etc etc.. took Dale Carnegies' course "How to Win Friends and Influence People" (He owned a Construction Co.) and said it was immensely helpful to him! I'm sure we could all benefit from reading his book!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)