Jack’s Winning Words 10/6/21

“We must be impatient for change.  Our voice is a precious gift…We must use it.”  (Claudia Flores – Director Global Human Rights Clinic)  Basically, I don’t like change.  This week I was notified that my prescription drug coverage will change.  “Grumble, grumble!”  But, what about those who have no health care?  Do I grumble about that?  Where’s my voice?  God’s Spirit leads me to write today: “I’m going to be less judgmental about protesters who ask for fair treatment.”  Yes, I don’t like change,..but I know that change will have to come if inequities are to be addressed.  What does God’s Spirit say to you??  ;-)  Jack

FROM WILLMAR REV:  . . . been on a journey of changes since birth, some looked forward to while others were dreaded, some fairly accepted while others were thought unfairly justified, but nevertheless, changes occurred . . . haven’t been able to curtail them even to this very day . . .  assuming others must be facing the same . . .  0;-)===JACK:  You surely know this hymn line.  "Change and decay in all around, I see.  O, Thou who changes not, abide with me."

FROM DANDI SANDI:  Good morning!!!! Thinking about your topic of change today…often a pain in the tush…more often a softening of edges as we age.  Wide experiences (some unintended!) and a closer observation of people and my surroundings, raising incredible kids and nurturing wonderful grandchildren, losing parents and friends and watching our friends age, embracing genuine friendships all along my path, experiencing an incredibly validating career, and lots of travel, have all broadened the range of my own views. Less judgment, more acceptance, forgiving, seeking cause for my own and others’ behaviors.  I am grateful that I have found my voice…to express, opine, stand my ground, protest, nurture. You would not have recognized me as a shy, intimidated, self-conscious young girl/woman. And my guy saw through it all!!  I embrace my personal change and the grace and validation that accompanies it every day. (Still lots of work to be done on that personal journey lol!!).  Grateful for you and your encouragement over the years. Be well and stay safe! 🥰===JACK:  The fact that we have seen change and lived through it, means that we can adjust to the fact that life is not static, and (if we are to keep our sanity) we must learn from change in order to have a better present and future.  Friends such and you and G are a real treasure.

FROM BLAZING OAKS:  Change will  come whether we ask for it or not, but for Justice, equality, I have been active, occasionally marching, writing letters to the  Editor, speaking out at meetings, etc. I am on the sidelines now, adjusting to the many changes which have come my way!===JACK:  The sideline cheers are very important to those on the field.  "Hold that line!"  and "Push 'em back, way back." are typical and encouraging words for those who taken our place.  

FROM JU IN NC:  My Mother used to pray with me at bedtime.  God speaks to me in my mind. He says be good, be kind.  Those spiritual words are still being applied today.===JACK:  J and I were having a conversation today about the influence your mom and dad had upon their children.  It's a reminder to share that wisdom (by thought, word and deed) with those with whom we come in contact

FROM SR IN SJ:  The same message, dear Jack , difficult as that is,  and may be! ===JACK:  What if God's message is: "I love you?"