Jack’s Winning Words 11/30/21

There will be no medals or monuments for me, but I have loved one person with my whole heart and soul, and that’s enough for me.”  (Nicholas Sparks)  Let’s give a medal to Henry Timms of the UN Foundation who, in 2012, came up with the idea of a Giving Tuesday (5 days after Thanksgiving) when people, worldwide, would contribute to some meaningful charity.  Countless dollars have been generated in this way.  So many worthy causes!!!  Today I’m choosing the ALS Foundation, honoring my friend, Steve.  Is there a cause, special to you?  ;-)  Jack

FROM WILLMAR REV:  Our United Way/West Central Minnesota has created a friendly competition with barbershops raising money for their annual pledge drive. It is called "November Battle of the Beards." A barber friend of mine invited me to participate. Looking forwards for its completion and thinking about putting a temporary iridescent color on it to draw out its contrast. I'll be donating to its cause as well. 0;-)===JACK:  I've never had a beard nor a moustache.  I'll just continue to open the wallet. 

FROM SR IN SJ:  The poor and immigrants are among my top concerns! ===JACK:  It's too bad that the poor and needy have so many roadblocks in their way.  But the saying is true..."I may not be able to do everything, but I can do something."  A little girl was seen on the beach taking a pail into the water, filling it up, and bringing it back to empty it on the shore.  "What are you doing?"  She replied, "I'm emptying the ocean."  Thanbks for what you are doing to empty the ocean, one pail at a time.

FROM fACEBOOK LIZ:  st jude's... forever and always.  this year i bought my daughter a hat from "love your melon." 50% of their profits go to benefitting pediatric cancer and toward giving every child who suffers from cancer a free hat.  she's a moline maroon and huge disney world fan.===JACK:  I appreciate Danny Thomas for what he did to get the St Jude Foundation going.  A true miracle.  Truly, a worthy cause.

FROM BLAZING OAKS:  Several! The Smile Train, Special Olympics, Habitat For Humanity, The Chicago Chorale! And many veteran's appeals.===JACK:  I see Giving Tuesday as an opportunity to give over and beyond those charities that we normally support.  To me, that's what makes the day special.   

FROM DAIRYLAND DONNA:  Forgotten Harvest and Gleaners although I donate to many others. I am grateful. It is truly better to give than to receive.  Merry Christmas season Jack.===JACK:  I like the Giving Tuesday idea because of how it so closely follows Thanksgiving Day.  I also like it, because it highlights charities which might not "make the cut" when it comes top our regular giving.  I seem to remember that Gleaners and Forgotten Harvest are "partners," each serrving the hungry in different ways.

FROM SA IN WA:  I usually give to the Salvation Army. Dad told me how they helped the family when he was a child. He never forgot that.===JACK:   Go to Youtube and see a recent concert by the Salvation Army Band ensemble held at our church....Youtube: Holy Spirit Lutheran Church West bloomfield, MI Salvation Army Band Concert.

 

 Jack’s Winning Words 11/29/21

“The sixth sick sheikh’s sixth sheep’s sick.” (Most difficult English language tongue-twister)  I missed it. Tongue-twister Day was Nov 8.  After research (Google) I found that “The sixth sheikh’s” is brain-related, not tongue-related.  My opinion is that much “antagonistic talk” these days is both brain-related and tongue-related.  I don’t know about you, but I intend to be more careful about what I say and how I say it.  First, try it out at home.  ;-)  Jack   

FROM GUSTIE:  Love it!  ===JACK:  But, can you say it....without spitting?

FROM THE SCIENTIST:  I’ve seen the “THINK before you speak (type)” acronym before. Then the conference I was attending was handing out magnets with it printed on them. Is it: True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, Kind?===JACK:  I like acrostics!

FROM SR IN SJ:  "Listen with ears of tolerance!  See through the eyes of compassion!  Speak with the language of love."  (Yankun)===JACK:      I like that quote.  Now, I have to find out who Yankun is.  (pause)  I think that it means: "Pulling my leg."===SR:  Can you hear me laughing out loud????🤣===JACK:  I never thought that sisters laughed with a roar.  I thought that it was more of a Tee-Hee.

 Jack’s Winning Words 11/26/21

“Cleanliness is next to godliness.”  (John Wesley)  It’s said that the  2^nd Germiest Place in the World is located by Seattle’s Market Theater.  It’s a 50’ long brick wall covered with several inches of used wads of chewing gum.  It’s a tourist attraction, and people come from all over to stick their gum to the wall.  Perhaps yours is there.  In case you’re wondering the spot with the most germs is the Blarney Stone in Ireland.   In the late 1800’s, germs and viruses were discovered to be sources of illness.  Thankfully, the discovery of vaccines followed.  ;-)  Jack.

FROM RS IN TEXAS:  Now if we can just get everyone to get the vaccines........... ===JACK:  I spent an "unsuccessful hour" recently trying to persuade an anti-vaxer.  I've given up. 

FROM HOMELESS:  Interesting little tidbits! Did you already know these facts coming into today's WW, or did you have to do some research?===JACK:  Your sister, D, told me about the "2nd Germiest Place."  My curiosity caused me to look up the "Most Germiest Place."

FROM SR IN SJ:  Oh, I never knew nor even thought to ask where the dirtiest place might be. . .but we humans do strange things, don't we?😀===JACK:  I tend to not think about what germs might be on the chalice.  I'm sure that the disciples did not worry about it at the Last Supper.  For me, the Holy Supper is indeed HOLY.

FROM BLAZING OAKS:  INTERESTING ! a WALL FULL OF CHEWED GUM HAS ZERO APPEAL TO ME!===JACK:  Did your ever put your Spearmint on the best post overnight?  Or, perhaps you and Jan sang it as a duet....

Oh me oh my oh you
Whatever shall I do?
Hallelujah,
The question is peculiar
I'd give a lot of dough
If only I could know
The answer to my question
Is it yes or is it no?

Does your chewing gum lose its flavor
on the bedpost overnight?
If your mother says don't chew it,
Do you swallow it in spite?
Can you catch it on your tonsils,
Can you heave it left & right?
Does your chewing gum lose its flavor
on the bedpost overnight?

Here comes a blushing bride
The groom is by her side
Up to the altar,
Just as steady as Gibraltar
The groom has got the ring
And it's such a pretty thing
But as he slips it on her finger
The choir begins to sing:

Does your chewing gum lose its flavor
on the bedpost overnight?
If your mother says don't chew it,
Do you swallow it in spite?
Can you catch it on your tonsils,
Can you heave it left & right?
Does your chewing gum lose its flavor
on the bedpost overnight?

Now the nation rise as one
To send their wanted son
Up to the White House, yes,
The nation's only White House
To voice their discontent
Unto the Pres-I-dent
The bonny burning question,
What has swept this continent?
If tin whistles are made of tin,
What do they make fog horns out of?
Boom boom

Does your chewing gum lose its flavor
On the bedpost overnight?
If your mother says don't chew it,
Do you swallow it in spite?
Can you catch it on your tonsils,
Can you heave it left & right?
Does your chewing gum lose its flavor
On the bedpost overnight?

On the bedpost overnight
Hello there,
I love you and
The one who holds you tight!
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday,
Thursday, Friday, Sat'day night
On the bedpost overnight
A dollar is a dollar & a dime is a dime!
He'd sing another chorus
But he hasn't got the time
On the bedpost overnight, yeah!

===OAKS:  Loved that you found and posted the song "Does the Chewing gum Lose Its flavor on the bedpost Overnight?"  So funny...I remember that song and we listened to it at a slumber party of our gang, at least once! To the best of my memory, Jan and I never sang it!===JACK:  I like "funny" songs, like: "May the Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose."  Did you ever sing that one?

 Jack’s Winning Words 11/24/21

“Put gratitude in your attitude!”  (Sent by Carol Retan)
A suggested Thanksgiving Table Prayer for you to use:
For food in a world where many walk in hunger,
For faith in a world where many walk in fear,
For friends in a world where many walk alone,
We offer our humble gratitude, O Lord.  AMEN

FROM JU IN NC:  Beautiful 🥰===JACK:  I hope that you can use it tomorrow...or at anytime when there's gratitude in your attitude.

FROM LS IN WB:  Amen 💝===JACK:  I hope that you can use it.

FROM FACEBOOK LIZ:  happy thanksgiving to you and your family! 🦃 ===JACK: How will you be spending tomorrow?  Seriously, What is ONE thing that you are thankful for?

FROM TL IN MI:  Thanks, Jack.  That’s beautiful.  Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. ===JACK:  One of the things I'm thankful for is our friendship

.FROM ST PAUL IN ST PAUL:    good one, Jack!  very timely.   hope you have a good season of Thanksgiving.  ====JACK:  In my ministry I always tried to give "the people" something to use at the Thanksgiving table.  It was meant to be a sign that the Church was with them at Thanksgiving. 

FROM PROUD MARY:  Amen. I’m very thankful for you and your daily thoughtful words. Happy Thanksgiving x✌🏼❤️🦃===JACK:  I'm thankful that God brought our families together in Grayslake, over 50 years ago.

FROM WILLMAR REV:  Thankful for you, Jack!! 0;-)===JACK:  Thankful that we (and our spouses) were FINALLY able to get together for lunch after too many years. 

FROM KB:  Thank you for the beautiful prayer. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family ===JACK:  Let me know if you use that prayer, but you don't have to.  Do you still cheer for the Lions?

FROM NORM'S BLOG:  In our society, many seem to have moved away from being thankful for what they have to a selfish attitude of entitlement. Perhaps much of that results from our tendency to try to give our children all of the things that we might not have had. While that seems like a worthy goal on the surface, it may actually be an attempt to enjoy life through our children and it teaches them the wrong lesson. There is very little “value” associated with things that we don’t have to work for to achieve, and that is true for our children, too.  A recent survey found that the majority of parents say that their children are not thankful for all of the things that they’ve been given. Well, DUH! If they didn’t have to do anything to get those things, how are they supposed to assign a value to them and be thankful for them. We have created generations of young people who feel entitled to everything, rather than grateful for what they have.  So, what are we to do? It’s never to late to start teaching the right things and gratitude is certainly one of those things. Insisting that children write a letter/card or call those who give them things to say Thank You, is a start. Don’t allow just a text message or a post on Instagram to suffice. When children achieve a goal or have a major accomplishment, they should be encouraged to thankful to any and all who may have helped them, and they should thank God for giving them the patience and perseverance to prevail.

Gratitude is based upon humility, whereas entitlement is based upon hubris. Which are you teaching your children?===JACK:  Always good and thoughtful words, Norm.  I hope that my readers are interested enough to read the rest of yopur blog.

FROM INDY GENIE:  Amen. I’m thankful that you knocked on our door so many years ago and that a gaggle of kids opened the door and let you in!❤===JACK:  We shared lots of laughs, some tears, some good music, some goo0d thoughts.  That's what friends are for.

F️ROM JK IN NVI:  Thank you for the winning words each weekday morning, and do like the suggested gratitude prayer for our Thanksgiving meal.  When things seem dark, Gratitude and Acceptance are gifts from God!===JACK:  Yes, much of our life, for better or worse, depends on attitude.  As we count our many blessings (large and small), we cannot help but be grateful. 

FROM SR IN SJ:  This "cook"  calls it " thanksliving!"  A blessed Thanksgiving to all and to your families. Our hope is that everyone stays well!  Without snow we still can’t sing “Over the River and Through the Woods.”  Words of Wisdom: At this time of Thanksgiving “Blessed are those who give without remembering and receive without forgetting.”  Recipe for a Peaceful Thanksliving  Ingredients:   

·         4 cups of Compassion     ·         2 cups of Kindness      ·         2 cups of Empathy            

·       Generous helping of Patience      ·         5 spoonsful of Understanding     

·      Heaps of Friendship      ·         Pinch of Forgiveness      ·         Dash of Respect          

·         1 Barrel of Laughter      ·         Love to taste      ·         An extra sprinkle of Hope   Directions:  1.      Take compassion and kindness, mix thoroughly with empathy.  2.      Blend in patience and understanding, add friendship and forgiveness.  3.      Sprinkle generously with respect.  4.      Cover with laughter, add love to taste and garnish with all the hope your heart can hold.                       Makes a great dish for holidays, but a delicious offering at any time of the year, so Thanksliving!

===JACK:  YUM  YUM  YUM

FROM DAZ IN COLRADO:  Very good.   Happy Thanksgiving ===JACK:  Your free-wheeling one will probably be a lot better....and longer.

 

   

 Jack’s Winning Words 11/23/21

“I’m always sorry when pleasant things end.  Something still pleasanter may come after, but you never can be sure.”  (L M Montgomery)  As a teen I used to get a thrill by riding a roller coaster called, the Blue Streak.  I’ve moved on to being thrilled by watching Formula 1 car races on TV.  Even more thrilling was the opportunity to baptize my first great-grandchild.  It’s strange how our “pleasures” can change.  What has been your pleasure-journey through life?   Life itself is enough of a roller coaster for some people.  Whee…here comes tomorrow!  ;-)  Jack 

FROM SHARIN' SHARON:  Thought-provoking WW again this morning, especially when placed together with your experience of having opportunity of baptizing your first great-grandchild.  I can relate to those kinds of thrills—the unexpected surprise and awe at my deeply needed encounter with Jesus, the gratitude then when PK baptized my 10 year old daughter, the experience of having two friends ask me to be God-mother to their sons—being thrilled to witness their baptisms and be involved with their lives over the years; but especially learning this past year that my daughter and son-in-law and another couple they are close to are intending to baptize their children.  It’s really great that you’re having such a long life, Pastor Freed, that you’re continuing to baptize people—that’s awesome!!! ===JACK:  Awesome is where we find it...in church, in school, on the street and in our own homes.  God is awesome; God is everywhere!

FROM K L LM:  Happy thanksgiving. Thanks for sharing your winning words. I really enjoy getting them===JACK:  I appreciate hearing from you.  I hope that the pandeminic has avoided you. ===K:  Hi, We have been lucky so far with not getting Covid. Limiting where we go and getting vaccinated. We are mask wearers. Hope you are doing well too with not getting Covid. I am so ready for this to be over but think this could be a part of our life style for some time. I love to be outdoors so that is helpful.===JACK:  We, too, have avoided the big C by being mask wearers (most of the time), using hand sanitizers and getting the Moderna shots.  I've given up trying to "reason" with the "anti-vaxers."  It will take time to see the value of the pandemic, but I believe that there is good in every bad, if you have the patience to look for it.  Have a nice Thanksgiving.

FROM BLAZING OAKS:   Great times and trips with family and friends! So thankful for all I've enjoyed in that sector of my life! Also thankful my family will be gathering here on Thanksgiving Day!! Turkey and ham balls here we come!! 😘===JACK:  How many do you plan on this year?  What's the most you've had in the past?  I don'y know anyone who have a bigger family table than you do.

FROM HOMELESS:  Ok. Now I have to quote Mr. Pastor John Freed!! "Whee....here comes tomorrow!"===JACK:  Just tag it: (Anon)

FROM JC AT THE LAKE:  Kya says hi!===JACK:  She's the ONLY Great-Grand=Child that I've ever baptized.

FROM SR IN SJ:  Ah! How delightful!  Can you hear me giggle a bit, Jack?  and i'm still smiling. . ."Whee, here comes tomorrow!" That's going to be my mantra for awhile, I think!!  Thank you,===JACK:  The "Whee" tagline was just something that popped into mind as I was finishing my writing.  I believe in such a thing as inspiration (the work of the Holy Spirit).===SR:  (For Thanksgiving)  we get to sleep later; we pray together, then celebrate the Eucharist and enjoy wine with  a festive dinner on table cloths sent from Spain.  Probably a nap or some sisters are invited to their birth family homes for a second dinner, others play cards, read, enjoy one another, express gratitude, I suppose, and happy memories!  Whee! here comes tomorrow! for you and for all of us. . .===JACK:  I always wondered what you ladies did for fun.

 

Jack’s Winning Words 11/22/21

“Creativity is just one of those strange, elusive things.  It’s like trying to grab a cloud.”  (Danny Elfman)  Danny is a New Wave composer, writing the theme music for The Simpsons, Batman, and The  Nightmare Before Christmas?  He explains that creating music is like trying to grab a cloud.  You see it in your mind; you write it down; then, it’s gone.  Ideas are like that, too.  They come, and they go.  Try “grabbing a cloud” today by writing…the first thing that comes to your mind…anything…hum it to a tune, any tune.  Embrace creativity!;-)  Jack 

FROM WILLMAR REV:  Challenging like some of those sermons tackled years past?! 0;-)===JACK:  Funeral sermons for children are the worst for me.

FROM BLAZING OAKS:  Jan and I  created a lot of different programs, and I used to write skits for our Women's work and church "doings' and school events....Bill was really good at  making up original words to a familiar tune, for appropriate  occasions.  Last  year I paraphrased "Mary, it's a grand old name" for a friend we were honoring and sang it! Kind of fun to get the creative juices flowing....!===JACK:  A person who innovates is called, a neoteric.  You are one of them.

FROM JJ IN SJ:  Thanks Jack. You hit it every day.===JACK:  I "aim" to.   

 

Jack’s Winning Words 11/19/21

“Eureka!” (Archimedes) As I was watching Jeopardy this week, I yelled out, “Eureka!”  The clue was, “What Greek word means, I have found it?  Early physicist Archimedes was sitting in his bathtub when the reason for buoyancy came to his mind..  It’s said that he was so excited that he jumped out of the tub and ran naked through the city streets, yelling, Eureka, Eureka!  Have you had a Eureka episode in your life?  …like finally understanding algebra?  …or understanding the meaning of G-O-D?    ;-)  Jack

FROM HOMELESS:  Nicely done. This was well worded, cute and fun from beginning to end.  Loved it!! 😍 ===JACK:  Eureka!  ...a compliment!

FROM WILLMAR REV:  Every new year, now-- "Eureka! I'm still here!!" 0;-) ===JACK:  Must AG people have a "Eureka" God-experience?.===REV:    Perhaps a little more celebratory in expression than that of the liturgical form . . . a good pastoral friend I had over in former East Detroit and before coming to West Bloomfield shared with me the Episcopal training at his seminary taught them to purposely keep their personal inflection out of the "song and sermon", presenting a more monotone approach in their dialogue (not sure if monotone would be the right word). It is heard often from our Catholic and Lutheran guests how much they enjoy the worshipful songs and at times tearful expressions will accompany their singing.  I’ve found we often miss the good lessons from the liturgical approach and calendar, especially in the Lenten and Advent seasons.   Obviously, a variety of approaches are offered and enjoyed in our churches today!?  0;-) ===JACK:  I can't speak for all Lutherans, but I've found that some person reference is not bad.  It indicates that the preacher is somewhat in touch with reality..  I think that you and I are similar tracks, although you might use "Bible references" more than I do.  Not, that I don't refer to particular texts...I do!  

FROM ST PAUL IN ST PAUL:   we must have been watching the same episode of Jeopardy.  it's one of my few favorite TV shows as it keeps my brain active (I hope!)===JACK:  When you answered the clue, did you run naked around the neighborhood yelling, "Eureka?"  I would not want to be a Jeopardy contestant (showing how much I DON'T know.

FROM FACEBOOK LIZ:  they usually happen in the tub... who knew?===JACK:  I can't remember the last time I took a tub bath.  I suppose that Eureka moments can happen in the shower, too.===LIZ:  yes, they def do.

FROM RI IN FL:  Shouldn’t today’s quote be titled WINNING WORD? (Respectfully submitted, of course!)  I applaud you Jack, for the enlightening words you always write, reminding all of us to think more positively and responsibly in all the roles we play. You have our admiration.===JACK:  Picky, picky...like a "detailed" person.  You're right, of course.

FROM SR IN SJ:  Not today, , ,nor yesterday, I fear.  too much pain in  my knees!  How about you?===JACK:  I thought that they removed the kneelers from the Chapel.  Was there a fuss about that?  I spent most of the day being driven from place to place by my chauffer.

FROM BULLSEYE:  My college friends and I like the Three Stooges version -   Eureka!  You don’t smell so good yourself!😉===JACK:  The Three Stooges...HAHAHAHA.  The Three Stooges Find Uranium (Youtube)

FROM IKE AT THE MIC:  How am I ever going to understand the meaning of G-O-D,if I can't even understand what Archimedes found in his bathtub?===JACK:  He figured out the reason why his rubber ducky was able to float.  I thought you knew that.  Now, as to the meaning of G-D....

FROM JU IN NC:  ..62 miles east of Wichita is a town called Eureka.  It may be a nice community, even at times exciting but I certainly didn't run through it naked.===JACK:  The first settlers came in 1857 and must have yelled, "Eureka," and the name stuck.  The town used to have a college, called, "Utopia," but it has folded.

FROM DR J:  You don’t smell so good yourself!===JACK:  You must have been watching the Three Stooges.

 Jack’s Winning Words 11/18/21

“When you look at a strange animal, that animal also thinks that a strange animal is looking at it.”  (Mehmet Murat ildan)  Author ildan seems to say that strangeness is in the eye of the beholder.  In a listing of animals that relate best to humans, dogs are first, followed by cats, chickens, pigs and horses.  I was surprised that pigs are sometimes used as “therapy animals.”  As a child, there were occasions when I talked to my dog as to a person…and thought that he understood.  Have you ever had an animal encounter that has mystified you?  I like the song, “It’s a Strange, Strange World, Master Jack.”  ;-)  Jack

FROM RVB:  This Deer seems to be appearing every few days. He stands in front of my library window just starring at me. I can’t seem to even shoo him away. Very Strange yet beautiful 🤔===JACK:  I can't get the picture to show up on the blog....but that picture of the deer looking through the window at youis unusual.  I wonder what he's thinking?

FROM WILLMAR REV:  Side Bar: Years ago, while still in high school I stopped by Armstrong Dairy in Wichita, KS and ate a large 7-8 scoop ice cream concoction (somewhat like a banana split) placed in what they called a "pig's trough" with an award to follow for those who ate all of it. I did, and my reward certificate stated, "Congratulations! You ate like a pig at Armstrong Diary!" 0;-))===JACK:  That reminds of (true story) of the family whose last name was Hogg.  They named one of their daughters, Ima.  You and she could have worn matching T-shirts.

FROM FACEBOOK LIZ:  that's your story, and you're sticking to it. you are the master! ❤===JACK:  We each have a story and an interpretation of it.  In that sense, we are the master (mistress)of life as we see it.

F️ROM NORM'S BLOG:  Did you ever wonder at the zoo what all of the animals that you walked around and looked at thought of you? Some may have seen you as potential prey and a tasty meal, which is frightening, but the majority of the animals that you encountered probably were either curious about you or a little frightened by you being there.  There is a similar experience on both sides of any encounter with other human beings. Most of us probably immediately notice any differences between them and us – maybe a different skin color or hair style and color, or maybe the way that they dress. If they speak to us, we note any differences in speech, such as accents. We are at the same time evaluating similarities and trying to find common ground between us; that is, if we are not so fixated upon the differences.===JACK:  Do you remember that song with the line...."All the animals aren't in the zoo.  Everyday you meet quite a few?"  What's your favorite zoo creature?  Mine's a rhino.

 

 Jack’s Winning Words 11/17/21

“Well-timed silence hath more eloquence than speech.”  (Martin Fraquhar Tupper)  Martin  (b. 1810) was famous for writing Proverbial Philosophy.  Winning Words is my attempt to do something similar, to find meaning in common sayings.  Tupper is the one who came up with the maxim that A Book Can Be A Person’s Best Friend.  His observation about “silence” seems  relevant to our current fractured society.  Sometimes the best answer to someone’s bombast is no answer.  In fact, whatever the disagreement, it’s good to remember that silence can be more powerful than words.  I write no more!   ;-)  Jack

FROM WILLMAR REV:  I have always learned that fact from reading the life and challenges of Christ, a master at "the best answer to someone’s bombast is no answer." I keep kicking myself at times speaking and answering before truly 'listening and calculating advantageously' if a response is even helpfully needed at that moment. 0;-)===JACK:  There are several times in the Bible where "Jesus answered not a word" in conversation.  I've preached sermons on the sounds of silence from Jesus.  Silence is a powerful tool. ===REV:  Just came across a quote from another FB post I received this morning: "Don’t waste words on people who deserve your silence. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can say is nothing at all." 0;-)===JACK:  That's a good one.  You could start your own Winning Words.

FROM JU IN NC:  In my silence, I am awakened to the sound of a falling leaf.  In my silence, I am aware of my neighbors grief.  In my silence, I become consumed with assured belief.  In my silence, I rejoice in my souls relief.===JACK:  I like this!  Did you write this yourself, or is it something you "picked up" during your life journeys?===JU:  It came from your inspirational "winning words" ===JACK:  Soooo, that means that I must like my stuff.  I like your stuff, too. ===JU:  Soooo, that means that I must like my stuff.  I like your stuff, too. ===JACK:  Good writers write because they have something to say.  Bay writers write because they have say something.

FROM SHARIN' SHARON:  the maxim I live by is what is of God will prevail, what is merely of human origin will fall down so we go our ways and be merry and trust in His Ways and I guess say never about anything because stuff we never believed could happen does in fact happen in weird unexpected ways.===JACK:  God will prevail! Good words to think about today when stresses come upon us.

FROM FACEBOOK LIZ:  also useful when you know you're whipped in an argument... there is refuge and face saving in silence. ===JACK:  Some people love the "give and take" in argument/debate.  It's not for me.  I choose silence, or just move away to a quiet place.===LIZ:  you "give" plenty when you think you're ahead... i'll call this a win! 🍸===JACK:  My object is NOT to win an argument, but to learn from discussion.

 

FROM THE SCIENTIST:  Took my first flight today. The woman next to me was chatty and had opinions different from mine on a few topics that she brought up. I’m a bit out of practice being in the real world and took silence as the best option a couple of times===JACK:  Your first flight....ever?  Silence sends a message...as well as do closed eyes...or "Let's talk about religion!"===S:  First Since covid. Funny how my timeline has reset!===JACK:  Taking things literally can be a problem.  ...even when reading the Bible. 

FROM DAZ IN COLORADO:  Well timed. You're about silence, with the fracture, you won't convince them anyway.===JACK:  How about: "Let's talk about quantum physics and how it relates to Stephen Hawking."

FROM BLAZING OAKS:  Good words to think upon this morning! I  tend to be a talker, so good for me!!===JACK:  ...but, when you talk, you have something to say.  Maybe it's the entertainer in you. 

FROM SR IN SJ:  Perfect, dear Jack!===JACK:  Only God is perfect.  I have such a long, long way to go.

FROM ST PAUL IN ST PAUL:  altho sometimes silence is also deafening... ===JACK:  Some churches have the children give a "noisy offering."  That's fun.  That should be followed by the pastor saying, "Let's have a silent offering, except for the shuffle of paper."

FROM IKE AT THE MIC:  Reminds me of the saying:

"Silence can sometimes be misunderstood,but it can never be misquoted"===JACK:  May I quote you on that?

 

 

 Jack’s Winning Words 11/16/21

 “Knowing that there is worse pain doesn’t make present pain hurt any less.”  (Gordon Atkinson)  A “healthy” student was scooting around in a wheelchair.  “What are you doing?” asked the teacher.  “I want to see what it’s like to be disabled.”  “Get out of that chair,” scolded the teacher.  “You’ll never know what it is to be disabled by doing that.”  That might have sounded harsh,, but only the disabled know what it’s like to be disabled.  “I feel your pain! Are empty words until we’ve had that pain.  We don’t know racism, poverty, shunning or similar things until we’ve experienced them.  Sympathy and empathy are not the same.  ;-)  Jack

FROM THE SCIENTIST:  Even though the child didn’t get a full experience, I wonder if they learned that there are some places that are hard to get to on wheels, some things hard to do, or other challenges that they are glad to leave behind when they get up. …. Of course if the kiddo was using the chair as an amusement ride that’s a different story===JACK:  In this instance the "child" was old enough to learn a lesson.  In fact, the whole class benefitted from the instruction.===S:  In this instance the "child" was old enough to learn a lesson.  In fact, the whole class benefitted from the instruction.===JACK:  Lessons (positive and negative) surround us daily.

FROM FACEBOOK LIZ:  teacher was wrong to scold student for trying to see another's side of life... if all we focus on is our perceived victimization, we truly become little more than victims in every one of our endeavors..===JACK:  In this particular case, the lesson was learned, so the teacher was successful.  Not all teachers teach in the same way...nor do all parents parent in the same way.  Key: Has the lesson been learned?===LIZ:   no, she discouraged the kid from learning, and from investigating and discovering. she totally sucks as a teacher.===JACK:  This time you misread.  It was a "he", and he had been invited, along with others during the term, to make special presentations.  At the end of the year, the students named him as the most outstanding of all the presenters and "unanimously" asked for him to return.

FROM DAZ IN COLORADO:  And young people don't know what it's like to grow old.===JACK:  You and I were young once, too.  Growing older has its problems...but its joys, also.  I like the old song: "Count your many blessings; name them one by one."

 

Jack’s Winning Words 11/15/21 “The thing about chameleoning your way through life is that it gets to where nothing is real.” (John Green)  Have you ever wanted to be like a chameleon, to blend into the background?  I remember a time in college asked for a synopsis of an assigned reading.  I’m sure that many of us wanted to be invisible.  “Let it be someone else.  Don’t call on me.”  I’ve read that chameleons sometimes change color to “blend” in.  Writer Green observes that humans are often like these lizards, wanting to just blend in.  Being up-to-date in “fashion” is just one example; and thinking as others think is another.  By continually “chameleoning”  we become human robots, giving our mind over to the control of others.   “Don’t let others manipulate your mind!” is good advice.  ;-)  Jack FROM THE SCIENTIST:  As a recovering wall flower, I’ve learned that things can be more enjoyable when I jump in but it’s a little easier when I feel an overlap with the folks in the room, which can take a little chameleon-ing. The challenge is to keep “me” there and to know when to assert my reality.===JACK:  When is it that we "join" the adult group.  Perhaps nit's a series of steps...confirmation?..first date alone?..going off to college?..marriage?..first child?.===S:  Seems the same as joining any group, when you are recognized or respected by that group. But I've not found that there is one adult group. It's a collection of them and recognition for entry differs.===JACK:  To your parents, you and your sister will always be known as "the kids." ===S:  And my sister will always be "my kid sister" ... never mind we are middle-aged professionals with kids of our own. ha!===JACK:  I have a "kid sister," too.  She loved it when she heard others refer to me as Nancy's brother.  It was always, Jack's sister. ===JACK:  There's magic in that MD.  I know of ministers who change from "pastor" to "doctor" when they get a degree, even if it's one purchased on the internet.  "Blessed are those who are who they are, and are satisfied with that.    FROM WILLMAR REV:  I agree, with the exception for One—“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Philippians 4:8 ESV). Enjoy our brand-new week, Jack, never been lived in before!! 0;-)===JACK:  It's one thing to THINK a thought.  It's something else to put it into action (if it's a good thought. FROM SHARIN' SHARON:  Today’s WW lead to much to reflect upon.  In my own perspective, what I enjoy about the New Testament and maybe this actually has its roots or something in the Hebrew Scriptures is that part where believers are called to different functions.  It occurs to me, now reflecting, that being a leader—teacher, prophet, all those sorts of functions are very hard sometimes if the person is feeling called by God to go against the grain of current culture; but also being a follower, disciple, can be very hard sometimes too because—if the leader is off the mark—that can lead to inauthenticity too.  I don’t consider myself a leader because don’t feel God designates me as such—the one call on me at the church was when the pastor asked me to come with him to a CROPWALK organizational meeting which led me to considerable involvement, but was never approached about the council or any teaching VBS or anything.  But do consider myself a disciple and have sometimes found myself in the position where it’s wisest—in my discernment anyway—to restrain myself from speaking out, simply because I have a strong belief in whatever position I am taking, in the Work of the Holy Spirit and the Lord’s Supper in the congregation, and frankly don’t want to be bullied out of the congregation which I have seen happen.  Probably that can look like chameleon behavior but it is just weighing the spiritual integrity of waiting on God for the solution to some problem and not acting on my own limited human understanding and wisdom.  Feel like things are just different in the spiritual realm from the worldly realm and the objective is to work out the authority part of the puzzle but it ain’t always easy.  Maybe all this has to do with that part of entering through the narrow gate and living out of sacrificial love—of God, of neighbor, of self even?  Anyway, the WW today are very thought-provoking, Pastor Freed.  Thank you for putting them out to us readers.===JACK:  I was going to edit your response for brevity, but the more I read,  I decided that blog readers needed to see what you wrote.  As for being a chameleon at church, there are times when that's best.  But, it's like Kenny Rogers sings in The Gambler, "You've got to know when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em."  I was inspired to have been  your (interim) pastor for a while. FROM FACEBOOK LIZ:  neither of us could be accused of that... 🍸 ===JACK:  I know that, for sure, about you. FROM BLAZING OAKS:  I'm afraid that Jan and I got used to "standing out" from the time we were young!   And we enjoyed it! HA!  But  probably that is NOT the norm!===JACK:  Some people gain self-confidence at an earlier age than other.  Having a twin to back you up probably (and you public singing/acting) contributed to you sense of self-assurance.===OAKS:  So true.===JACK:  Having teachers who believe in you and encourage you helps a lot, too. FROM SR IN SJ:  I needed this advice today, my friend!===JACK:  Let's see what Winning Words can do for you tomorrow.

 Jack’s Winning Words 11/11/21

“As  we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”  (John F Kennedy)  I’m puzzling over how to say a “meaningful thank you” to a military veteran today.  A computer site tells me what NOT to say.  Send a card? or some flowers?  Fly the flag?  Here are some things we might say…Thank you for your service to America – Is there a story you could share with me about your time in the service? – I just want you to know that I respect you for your service to our country?”  Too maudlin?...I think not.  Who might you “thank” today?  Gratitude is a great gift.  ;-)  Jack

FROM SR IN SJ:  What beautiful sensitivity you manifest, Jack!!===JACK:  I guess that there are certain qualities that go with the job that is yours.

FROM THE SHARK:  I took the test to join the army after I graduated from high school but I failed the test because of my limited English which was two years after I immigrated from Iraq===JACK:  How "stupid" to think that immigrants don't have something positive to give to this country to make it better.  Thank you for your willingness to serve.

FROM SHARIN' SHARON:  It is really important to appreciate and thank veterans.  Glad you posted these WW.  And I believe whatever goes on in our country it is important to lift up our highest ideals and aspirations for the justice and well-being of all of the people and not cave in to terrible hopelessness or dark thoughts of failure or something, especially the three veterans I personally knew the best, dad World War II, my brother Vietnam and Jerry Vietnam all came away from their experiences scarred but were able to valiantly continue to live the rest of their lives in constructive ways.  Jerry fared the best because while he was drafted, he served at the atmospheric lab in New Jersey but still the time was a great sacrifice for him and our marriage, the insecurity, the moving around, just the tenor of that kind of lifestyle.  For dad and my brother, they saw human bad stuff that impacted on them a lot, war does that to people, thank God they always remained hopeful after their experiences!!!  The sacrifices of veterans are great and it is good to acknowledge that and not ever to give up on our country after people have done all of that.  Thanks for these WW today, Pastor Freed. ===JACK:  Each family has its story to tell.  Each church family celebrates its veterans, too.

FROM CR:  When I was teaching, we took our middle school students to Camp Leelanau. Each night after a day of fun and adventure the camp director gathered everyone together to sing, talk about the day, etc. Each night he talked about the power and importance of gratitude. He asked all the kids to put “gratitude in your attitude” and you will make your life and the lives of others better. He then offered anyone to express gratitude to someone for something. Kids said the most beautiful and sometimes funny things. Lots of laughs a few tears sometimes. “I’m grateful Jack picked me on his team because he knows I stink and I never get picked”.  “ I’m grateful Susan took us on the dark walk last night because I loved it”.  On and on until he said it was time for bed.  What a great way for kids to end their day. A bit like prayer, yes?===JACK:  "Put gratitude in your attitude!"  I love it.  It's a "saver."

FROM RG IN AZ:  First, I pray that you and all your family are well and continue “livin’ the dream”  Second, I have no understanding of “posting”; only the knowledge of it. So, I am sending this to you in the form of a “reply”  There is a significant difference between knowledge and understanding. To know something is common, because one can get knowledge out of a book. To understand the knowledge is more uncommon, because that does not come from a book. For example, many have knowledge of the contents within the Holy Bible, and fewer have an understanding of that knowledge. For if it were not so, knowledge alone would negate the need for the exposition of the Scriptures.  The Gratitude that you search to express in today’s WW, is within the realm of Understanding. Wisdom is in another realm altogether; and it follows Understanding.  Thus, we need to pray for Understanding and Wisdom. For Knowledge abounds beyond even our recognition of all that has been availed us. And, as this is True, to what gain, has all this Knowledge we have acquired served? (See the current state of the world and Man. We are nothing more than Cain’s and Able’s descendants with increased technological understanding. Our behavior is no different than their’s; but for our advanced toys)  For what righteous effect CAN any of Man’s acquired Knowledge have, if righteousness has no hand in it? (See Genesis 6:5 as a description for such a state)   I am convinced by evidence in the Scripture (Matthew 13) that Understanding is also a gift from God alone. If I were writing alongside Martin Luther some 500 years ago, I would emphasize “Intellectus a Deo” and “Sapientia a Deo” as additional gifts “per Sola Gratia”. And I also think that Luther might have agreed and done the same. Either way, I would have made the argument with a mindful defense — and enjoyed every minute of his challenge!  As you noted in a conversation with me some time ago, and since Martin Luther is no longer available, you are on occasion my foil for fruitful debate.===JACK:  Thanks for your "e3ssay" on the difference between Knowledge and Understanding.  I couldn't agree more...especially when it comes to the Bible and its contents.  The same might be said "reading" world events.  It is not my style to "debate" issues.  I simply say what I believe, and if someone doesn't agree, I tend to restate it.  There's room in this world for points of view different from my own.  I'm glad that I majored in philosophy in colege rather than in religion.

 

 Jack’s Winning Words 11/12/21

“There are three things that are important in human life.  The first is to be kind.  The second is to be kind.  The third is to be kind.”  (Henry James)  These words were spoken by Henry as he said good-bye  to his young nephew, Billy (brother William’s son).  …and Billy never forgot them, seeking to live a life of kindness.  We’ve been told to “be kind to animals” and most of us try to do that.  Did you know that the Bible says that we are to treat others as Christ treats us?  (Does that mean, everyone?)  Sometimes “politics” gets in the way of this.  Have you seen some examples of kindness recently?  ;-)  Jack 

FROM ST PAUL IN ST PAUL:  and kindness is one of the fruits of the Spirit too! ===JACK:  When you get to Heaven you can tell the other Paul that you were glad that he included kindness when he wrote to the Galatians about "the fruits of the Spirit."===SP:  and i can also tell him about Jack's WWs if he doesn't know already..===JACK:  We each have a pile of "yet to read" stuff.  WWs is probably at the bottom of his.

FROM WILLMAR REV:  Well, two out of the three isn’t too bad and I’m working hard for the third! 0;-)===JACK:  Well, a 3-pin split is an easier pick-up than a 2-pin split...or so I've been told.

FROM EMT SINGS IN TC:  I have seen so many examples of kindness since Rick's passing that I am humbled, and blessed!===JACK:  oN THE  WHOLE, THERE ARE SOME REALLY NICE PEOPLE OUT THERE IN THE WORLD.  iT'S TOO BAD THAT THE "NEWS" SO OFTEN FOCUSES ON THE BAD.

FROM BLAZING OAKS:  I agree. Kindness is THE most important thing in any relationship!!My family's constant kindness in my old age is exemplary!  I try to reciprocate!===JACK: Kindness....one of the Fruits of the Spirit.  When God enters your life, you cannot help but be kind to others.  

 Jack’s Winning Words 11/10/21

“Are you a lark, an owl or a hummingbird?”  (John Medina)  This “bird” story headline caught my attention recently.  It was a story about sleeping habits: .lark (early-riser), owl (stays up late), hummingbird (flits between the two).  Most of the time I’m a lark.  But beyond that, what kind of bird would you want to be?  a soaring eagle, a singing canary, a homing pigeon?  Apart from the noise they make, I’d like to be a crow.  Maybe a more introspective question: “What kind of bird are you?”  Ornithologists estimate that there are about 10,000 different bird species in the world.  There must be a you and me out there   Have I seen or heard you?   .  ;-)  Jack

FROM WILLMAR REV:  "Hummingbird" with a spiritual song or hymn in my heart! As someone once told me, "might sound like a crow down here, but always a canary up in heaven!" 0;-) ===JACK:  The Bible mentions a dove coming down from Heaven, but nothing about canaries or crows.===REV:  Remember that old Roy Acuff song, “The Great Speckled Bird”? 0;-) 

1. What a beautiful thought I am thinking
Concerning a great speckled bird
Remember her name is recorded
On the pages of God's Holy Word.

2. All the other birds are flocking 'round her
And she is despised by the squad
But the great speckled bird in the Bible
Is one with the great church of God.

3. All the other churches are against her
They envy her glory and fame
They hate her because she is chosen
And has not denied Jesus' name.

4. Desiring to lower her standard
They watch every move that she makes
They long to find fault with her teachings
But really they find no mistake.

5. She is spreading her wings for a journey
She's going to leave by and by
When the trumpet shall sound in the morning
She'll rise and go up in the sky.

6. In the presence of all her despisers
With a song never uttered before
She will rise and be gone in a moment
Till the great tribulation is o'er.

7. I am glad I have learned of her meekness
I am proud that my name is on her book
For I want to be one never fearing
The face of my Savior to look.

8. When He cometh descending from heaven
On the cloud that He writes in His Word
I'll be joyfully carried to meet Him===JACK:  Have you ever used this song as a hymn in church...or had it as "special" music?  I could see preaching a sermon, using it as a theme.===REV:  I’ve only heard it most likely on the old “Hee Haw” show with Buck Owens…too old country for the churches and hymns I’m acquainted with on a regular basis. 0;-)===JACK:  "Gimme that old-time religion (once in a while).

FROM INDY GENIE:  Hummingbird here…I flit between the two.  I love the early morning and the late night.  I once had a dream that  I was an eagle. The soaring was so real, I can still feel it. I swooped between skyscrapers and soared in the open air! Awesome.===JACK:  I'm one who has many dreams.  Most of them are "thrilling", like the one you describe.  I even keep a journal listing some of my best dream experiences.

FROM SR IN SJ:  tweet, tweet!  I am a lark and an owl .  does that mean I take lots of naps? (YES!)  Which bird would I like to be?  I think a wren because I like its song! (And, also, because I do better being at home in small places,😌 more intimate surroundings)===JACK:  A great answer!  We have a wren house on our front porch, and it's occupied every Spring.  They certainly are an industrious bird.  We also have a humminbird feeder.  They certainly seem to use alot of anergy flapping those little wings of theirs.  I wonder if they ever take naps? ===SR:  Thanks for your response to my choices of birds.  Let me sing for you and Joan too. . . . and flap my wings!===JACK:  I think that I'll pass on that. 

BTW< Speaking birds…have you heard Little Jimmy Dickens sing: May The Bird Of pParadise Fly UPp Yout Nose?  You can Youtube it. Here are the lyrics so you can sing along…

 One fine day

as I was walkin' down the street

Spied a beggar man
With rags upon his feet
Took a penny from my pocket
In his tin cup I did drop it
And I heard him say
As I made my retreat:

"May the bird of paradise fly up your nose!
"May an elephant crush you with his toes"
"May your wife be plagued with runners in her hose"
"May the bird of paradise fly up your nose!"

My laundry man
Is really on his toes
Found a hundred dollar bill
Among my clothes
When he called me I came runnin'
Gave him back his dime for phonin'
And I heard him say as I turned to go

"May the bird of paradise fly up your nose!
"May an elephant crush you with his toes"
"May your wife be plagued with runners in her hose"
"May the bird of paradise fly up your nose!"

I was way behind
One day to catch a train
The taxi driver said:
"We'll make it just the same!"
A speed cop met up with us
And as he wrote out the ticket
I stood by politely waiting for my change

"May the bird of paradise fly up your nose!
"May an elephant crush you with his toes"
"May your wife be plagued with runners in her hose"
"May the bird of paradise fly up your nose!"

"May the bird of paradise fly up your nose!
"May an elephant crush you with his toes"
"May your wife be plagued with runners in her hose"
"May the bird of paradise fly up your nose!"

Source: Musixmatch