Jack’s Winning Words 12/10/08
“If thou thinkest twice before thou speakest once, thou wilt speakest twice the better for it.” (William Penn) I thoughest twice before I wrotest this one. It’s one of those quotes that hits home for a preacher. However, the thought is good for all of us. If I could find room by my computer, I’d post it there. I like Penn’s oats, too. ;-) Jack

FROM J.C. IN HONG KONG: Hahahaha .... good job.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Kind of like measurest twice, sawesr once.

FROM JACK: I know that this is relatively lengthy, but if preachers stay with it, it fits today's quote.
"Pastor’s like to talk. On a Tuesday morning once a month study, 21 pastor’s, mostly Lutheran, meet in the Black Hills of South Dakota for a discussion dealing with the revised common lectionary texts for the coming month. I always learn a few new ideas or come to a better understanding of a text but the key learning for me over the years in these discussion’s is that pastor’s full time or retired like to talk and be heard but seldom will a pastor listen first and then speak. I believe that the Priest Zechariah was no different than the pastor’s that I spend so much time with dealing with the issues in theology, culture, and every day living as the texts of
God’s word proclaimed in Word and Sacrament define our calls as pastor to God’s people. I can understand how after meeting the angel of the Lord that Zechariah doesn’t bow down and worship though he is fearful Zechariah is but an anxious pastor who just asks more questions instead listening and believing. I can understand the Priest Zechariah and his questions of who, how, why, when, what and where for those questions are the same questions that the 2o pastor’s and myself ask to each other and of God every month. I believe that God is the action in our lives, God is the subject and the verb of our sentences. God gives the faith, the experiences, the reality in which we live and serve. God is involved and like that of Zechariah we as pastor’s get God envy most often when God is present and we aren't aware. We need intervention from God, awareness of God, reflection in God, and belief of holy moments of God coming to us where our mouths hang open and no words come out. Holy silence where in awe we say nothing but wave our hands around
about which we cannot describe or contain. Silence is what happened to Zechariah. The angel zips the lips of Zechariah and he utters nary a word and for several months neither the congregation, nor his wife, nor his community, ever hears him speak about his condition, his experience, or his vision but they know that God was present because only God can shut the mouth of a pastor who likes to talk. This Advent Wednesday December 10th, is any pastor’s great opportunity to share the mystery of God’s promises without saying too much. Less is more." (FROM AN ADVENT DEVOTION BY JOE OTTERMAN)

FROM PR D.C. IN KANSAS: "We read the gospel as if we had no money, and we spend money as it there were no gospel." -- Fr. John Haughey

FROM INDY G.G.: thankest youeth.......that is a good oneeth.

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: His oats make great cookies, but exacerbate the gout. so instead of eating two of Anabell's lovely cookies just eat onest and thank her twicest. Aren't girls great.

Jack’s Winning Words 12/9/08
“Smell is a potent wizard that transports you across thousands of miles and all the years you have lived.” (Helen Keller) H.K. may have been deprived of hearing and seeing, but she still had a good mind…and a sense of smell. Are there some favorite aromas that come to mind as you wander back through time? I remember the smell of a new leather baseball glove and my old sweaty basketball clothes. ;-) Jack

FROM D.C. IN MI: Anyway, I remember Pearl Harbor Day, even though I was five. Friday night, the 5th, we went to Lake Lillian, MN for some meeting, and I always liked to go there because they had decorated sugar cubes. Anyway, when we got home my dad noticed a tire was flat. So I guess because war stories, or the expectation of the same, caused him to go downtown Hector on the 6th and buy 4 new tires for the '35 Pontiac. People thought he must have had inside news, because they were frozen by the 8th, and he couldn't have bought any, (We had that car until 1951.) And then I remember them listening to the radio on the 7th. I also remember that the over-the-street Christmas lights were only half up and so they lit them, but then in 1942 and 1943 there were no lights at all

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: One of the best was my mother making fresh sugared donuts when I arrived home from elementary school. MORE: Yeah, and her home-made bread too. When a loaf was needed, Mom kneaded.

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: "Moline, Moline, You can tell when you get there, by the odor in the air!!!" An old refrain we used to sing in the old days.

FROM P.H. IN MN: I do recall a perfume my first girl friend used and I later found out it was called Ambush!!! Actually I really liked it!

FROM DMF IN MN: Granny A’s Cardamom bread.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: My dad grew up on the AuSable River off of Louie's Landing Road in Grayling. Across the dirt road from my grandmother's house was an old cabin built around 1830. Sometime in the late 1800's Martha and her husband Louie (Louie's Landing was named after him) had a bakery/restaurant in this little cabin and they cooked for the Voyageurs who took the logs down the AuSable River. I never met Louie, as he had passed away, but my grandmother and my dad knew them both very well. Martha continued to bake for years and years and people came from all over the Grayling area to purchase bread and her special bakery items. She was German and had a heavy accent. As kids, we used to love to go to her cabin. As you neared the cabin...you could already smell the baking bread. She past away when I was 17. My grandmother took care of Martha in her later years and Marth a left the property and cabin to her. When we would go "up north", we would stay in Martha's cabin. The truly wonderful smell of bread never left the cabin and I still remember it as if it were yesterday.

FROM MOLINER, J.T.: As an old farm boy, I remember smells also. I won't list them here.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: The smell of the ocean on the way back from overseas. Especially at night. It conjures up the joy of coming home. 31 days of anticipation.

FROM G.M. IN MI: The odor of a new car that your father brough home . The smell of the turkey on Thanksgiving. The first day of spring. FROM JACK: Isn't it interesting that you can buy an air freshener for your car that has the new cae smell?

FROM MY SEMINARY ROOMMATE: I remember the smell of your athletic clothes, too....

FROM M.L. IN IL.: my mom always smelled like "tabu" and my dad like "old spice". i keep a bottle of each to awaken my sensory memory. i love the occasional random scent when i am in a crowd. often times i choose to believe that it is their spirits making contact. it's a good feeling. noxema, original jergens lotion, cornhuskers lotion, sen-sen breath mints, pipe tobacco, and, and, and ...the list could go on and on...

FROM J.T. IN MI: I now know that it is a pollutant but I love the smell of burning leaves in the fall (one of the childhood memories.) FROM JACK: How about the incense at church?

FROM EMT SINGS IN MI: Schools still smell the same and I love it!

FROM PR F.M. IN WI: We just had an old fashion snow storm . . . the smell of the air was just great this evening as I walked to our mail box for our mail.

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: Yes, yes, yes,: The smell of Gardenias at Graduation dinner in Frieden's gym in 1945, the smell of Hyathins at Easter in our kitchen, the smell of Lilacs in our backyard to announce the running of the white bass on the Wolf River near the Union Star Cheese factory at Zittau, Wis on hyw 10. Oh Lord what memories. Sorry I am crying. We just had to get old, Wow, what memories.

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: That keen sense of smell has done me in. The smell of dust and mold and a few other choice items exacerbate my asthma, thank you. I thinkHelen Keller was a real gift, a role model for people of all ages.

Jack’s Winning Words 12 8/08
“The one who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.” (Chinese Proverb) This seems to be a good quote with regard to today’s economic dilemma. Are there any mountains in your life that need to be removed? I guess we all have them, of one size or another. Start with the pebbles, but start! ;-) Jack

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: That's a really good quote.

Jack’s Winning Words 12/5/08
“Enthusiasm, like measles, mumps and the common cold, is highly contagious.” (Emory Ward) Here’s some background on that word, enthusiasm. It’s from the Greek and means to be possessed by a god, to be inspired, to be excited, especially about one’s religion. The Holy Rollers would enthusiastically roll around on the floor. The Quakers and the Shakers would violently tremble. People who are enthusiastic about sports are called, fans, from the word, fanatic. Are you enthusiastic about something? ;-) Jack

FROM E.D. IN AZ: i'll tell you what i am not enthusiastic about... being at school writing a proposal at 3:40am! :) ...although i guess most women my age could be up with a screaming baby at 3am... umm... a proposal vs.screaming baby... that is a toss up.

FROM MOLINE, C.F.: Some of the people are enthusiastic all of the time and all of the people are enthusiastic some of the time, but all of the people are not enthusiastic all of the time. Abe Lundeen

FROM MOLINER, G.S.: Life & living with a purpose. What is yours? REPLY: At the present time, connecting some in need with some who have the ability to give.

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: Yes. (But very private about it.)

FROM S.G. IN TAMPA: I'm enthusiastic living and enjoying each day and learning new things. The important thought for me is to know that God had a plan for me and for my family and friends. By the way , it is a beautiful day in Florida. It is easy to remember why we moved from Ann Arbor 45 years ago.

FROM CJP IN WI: I'm excited about life. It's a daily rollercoaster with unexpected twists and turns and the more positive and enthusiastic you can be-the better. Yes, it's contagious and we need more of it-especially thru these uncertain times!

Jack’s Winning Words 12/4/08
“Having a dream is what keeps you alive. Overcoming the challenges makes life worth living.” (Mary Tyler Moore) MTM has had her share of challenges…failures in show biz…a couple of failed marriages…the tragic death of her son…living as a diabetic…and others. But she has persevered and comes across to her many fans as, Perky Mary, even though Lou Grant once said, “I hate perky!” Evidently there’s something good about having a dream. ;-) Jack

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Did you know MTM was Sam Spade's secretary's phone voice? That's, of course, before she married Dick Petry. REPLY: No, I didn't lnow that. I always liked Perky Mary. Rob Petrie

Jack’s Winning Words 12/3/08
“We can learn much from wise words, little from wise cracks, and less from wise guys.” (William Arthur Ward) This reminds me one of the Sunday School boy in my congregation who was in a Christmas play. He said that he was one of the “wise guys.” In a dream, the Lord came to Solomon and said , “Ask whatever you want, and I shall give it to you.” Solomon replied, “Give me an understanding mind to govern your people well, that I may know the difference between right and wrong.” (1 Kings 3::5-9) Now, that’s wisdom. ;-) Jack

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: And yet he was the dope who ruined the Kingdom of David by running after other gods.... REPLY FROM JACK: At the time, it was the proper response to God. Later on, he may have been a dope. As you well know, we sin daily. Therefore. confession and foregiveness are regularly before us.

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: A great choice today for WW (Winning Words/Wise Words). Incidentally, we missed you yesterday.

FROM D.S. IN SAN DIEGO: Jack -- sort of reminds me of Ecclesiastes that we are reading now in our bible study group. My goodness, it certainly has a lot of "ramblings" by whomever wrote it. Sounds like MY ramblings of a life misspent (at times). Quite a depressing piece of work. Some people think Solomon wrote it as he was aging, but there are a lot of contradictions in it. I know it doesn't really come together until the 12th chapter, but it has got to be the most depressing book in the bible. Do you agree? JACK'S REPLY: I disagree. Maybe it's because its alternate name is, The Preacher. I especially like Chapter 3.
FROM F.M. IN WI: Wise winning words today! The three W's.

Jack’s Winning Words 12/1/08
“It’s a healthy thing now and then to hang a question mark on the things you have long taken for granted.” (Bertrand Russell) If anyone ever hung question marks on things, it was Russell. He was a brilliant philosopher and longed for eternal truths. I guess we all would like ultimate answers. Someone once said to me, “When I get to heaven, I’ve got a lot of questions to ask God.” He/She won’t mind. ;-) Jack

FROM P.O. IN MI: A hearty "Amen!"

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: When I get to heaven, God will have a lot more questions to ask ME.

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: I read an anecdote about Russell in a Philosophy book that I think might be reliable. It said that he was walking along the campus at Oxford in deep thought and suddenly stopped and said, "Anselm was right." When asked later about it, he said that he was thinking about Anelm's Ontological Proof of God. Amazing story. JACK'S QUESTION: What is that proof? J.S.'s RESPONSE: The thought of God must come from somewhere....cause and effect. The cause must always be great enough to cause the effect. No thing that we know is great enough to cause the thought "God"....therefore, it must be God who is causing that thought....ergo, God exists. Anselm would probably throw up if he saw my summary because he wrote the same thing in about 20,000 words. However, in my simplistic style, that is the Ontological Proof of God.

FROM J.S. IN MI: He/She??? I LOVE it!

Jack’s Winning Words 11/28/08
“Grace isn’t a little prayer you chant before receiving a meal. It’s a way to live.” (Jackie Windspear) I like the word, grace, which means, love received that isn’t deserved. I’m always impressed when I see someone in a restaurant bow their head and offer a table prayer before they eat. So much of what we have is grace stuff. It seems good to stop on occasion and simply say, Thank you.” ;-) Jack

FROM PR P.H. IN MN: i like the acronym God's Riches At Christ's Expense. GRACE hope you had a good thanksgiving.

FROM F.M. IN WI: What a beautiful word!

Jack’s Winning Words 11/26/08
“Got no check books, got no banks; still, I’d like to express my thanks. I got the sun in the morning and the moon at night.” (Irving Berlin) This song appeared in Annie, Get Your Gun in 1946. It’s still appropriate, considering today’s economy. Besides the sun and the moon, why not make a list tomorrow of the Top Ten other things for which you are thankful? ;-) Jack

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: I choose the sun and the rain, which pretty much make everything else possible.

FROM B.D. IN MI: One of my Ten is: I'm thankful for Winning Words.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Got my list all ready! There's a lot to be thankful for each day.

FROM B.M. IN MI: Have a Happy Thanksgiving. First thoughts of Top Five (not unique, I suppose): Family, health, love, friends, good fortune.

FROM PR D.L. IN OR: among the top 10 are your "Winning Words!" Have a great Thanksgiving!

FROM PR F.M. IN WI: Spouse, Family, Friends, Church, home, health, Country, new administration, Bishop, fellow & sister pastors, beauty of earth, sky and water, sight, hearing, smell, taste, touch, ability to get about, work and of accomplishments, and for a winning word five times a week to continually remind me of the gifts and blessings that are bestowed on me each day! May you and yours have a blessed THANKSGIVING.

FROM M.E. IN CA: (Excerpts) The things for which I give thanks...inspired by Winning Words: Family, immediate and extended; Two grandchildren; Friends and professional colleagues; Excellent health for family and myself; A wonderful home; Enthusiam for our wonderful country which is about to inherit its first global president; A personal belief and conviction in something that is greater than us. Forever thankful and lucky.

FROM PR D.W. IN TX: (A Thanksging Acrostic)

Thanks be to God!

Thank you, Lord, for everything,
Having this life and voices to sing!
Another year has passed our way.
No reason not to shout “THANKS!” today!
Knowing without our Savior’s love,
Sin could cripple us like wounded doves.

Be with us, Lord, and light our smiles.
Encourage us those extra miles.

Take our time, our talent, our treasure.
Only quiet our urge to measure.

Go with us as we greet each great day.
Only you can show us the way.
Deliver us as your love today!

Have a happy and blessed Thanksgiving Day!

FROM G.C. IN SAN DIEGO: Herren valsigne dig!

FROM CJL IN OH: One of the 10 is "good friends"......Thanks for being one of them!

Jack’s Winning Words 11/25/08
“What kind of a world would this world be, If everyone in it were just like me?” (Quoted in Getting Rich Your Own Way by Brian Tracy) He goes on to ask, “What kind of a country; what kind of a company; what kind of a family.” It’s about values and actions and not about cloning. Why not spend some time pondering, “What kind of a world do I want this world to be?” In reality, it starts with me (and you). ;-) Jack

FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: "If everyone in it were just like me," the world would provide a very limited, narrow slice of life. That is why diversity of people and experiences is really significant and beneficial for me, and I think would be for everyone. To my mind we should never confine ourselves to reading what we already think, listening to people who express what we already believe, and visiting the same places again and again because they pleased us before. Thank God that this world is so diverse, and furthermore that it is ever- changing, always affording us fresh experiences.

FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Been busy traveling songwriting and speaking. Heading through Detroit again today at 1 pm. I liked today’s quote. I am a big fan of Brian Tracy. If you get an opportunity to read Something for Nothing he wrote a year or so ago I think you might enjoy it. It is unlike any of his other books. Heading to Kitchener/Waterloo, Canada. To speak to 100 people in a four year financial planning course. http://www.wealthinstitute.ca/ I’m module 3 in Year One. Brain Tracy was module one. Goal setting.

FROM MOLINER LIZ: My mom always said something similar about diversity and the need for it. The answer was,"It'd be pretty boring." She used to lament the loss of regional restaurants as McDonald's, etc., took over the world.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Perish the thought!!! Everyone has their own gift and I can't imagine what this world would be like if we all had the same one. Yow! Can you imagine the people all collecting photos of old outhouses? I would love this world to be exactly like God wanted it to be. That would be a wonderful world.

Jack’s Winning Words 11/24/08
“You don’t stop playing because you get old; you get old because you stop playing.” (Slogan seen at the Roy Hobbs World Series) Roy Hobbs has hardball leagues for various age groups, including one for players 65 and older. I remember a pastor coming to our church in Illinois and preaching at age 96. I have a copy of the sermon in my Easter File: “Easter Message of Peace.” ;-) Jack .

FROM L.K. IN OH: I don't stop playing......I just play on a different field.

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: When you get old, you still play but you play at a different speed.

FROM M.T. IN PA: This is true on many levels--including the scientifically verifiable level. I have a small book called 'Keep Your Brain Alive: 83 Neurobic Exercises' In addition to the mental exercises, the book provides the background on scientific and medical research that has identified exactly which types of behaviors and activities promote the growth and regeneration of brain matter! The basic rule is - habitual and passive activity is bad (or at least non-beneficial) while mental challenges--especially those that are creative/problem-solving, require the formation of new associations, and/or break established patterns--are highly regenerative.

FROM CJL IN OH: Thanks. I needed that! REPLY: See, you've got alotta years to go.

FROM PR F.M. IN WI: I find it is not playing the same games, but finding new games to play which fit our age. One game which is 'interesting' for oldies is one which our kids gave us last Christmas . . . "The Captain's Mistress Game". I trust you have played it! REPLY: It sounds too risque for me.

FROM G.G. IN INDY: this is SO true! good reason to hold on to your childhood!

Jack’s Winning Words 11/21/08
“You always pass failure on the way to success.” (Mickey Rooney) While Mickey Rooney was a successful movie star, he met a lot of failures along the way. In 1970 “an angel appeared to him,” and he turned his life around. Failure doesn’t have to be final. I’ve met a number of people who’ve been able to move on and let the past be the past. Sometimes our failures make us stronger people. ;-) Jack

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Failures are just bumps in the road....ya just keep going and eventually the road smooths out.

SONG BY FRANK SINATRA:
Now nothing's impossible, I've found for when my chin is on the ground,I pick myself up, dust myself off, and start all over again.Don't lose your confidence if you slip, be grateful for a pleasant trip,And pick yourself up, dust off, start over again.Work like a soul inspired until the battle of the day is won.You may be sick and tired, but you be a man, my son.Will you remember the famous men who have to fall to rise again,So take a deep breath, pick yourself up, start all over again.You gotta work like a soul inspired until the battle of the day is won.You may be sick and tired, but you be a man, my son.Will you remember the famous men who have to fall and then to rise again,So take a deep breath, pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and start all over again.Once again now:Will you remember the famous men who have to fall and then rise again,So take a deep breath, pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and start all over again.That's enough now.

FROM M.T. IN PA: Yes, indeed they can. Stronger, and better.

FROM L.P. IN MI: Ack! I just submitted my dissertation proposal to my committee yesterday. I don't want to think about failure... I've determined success is my only option.

FROM CJL IN OH: I know that, too, but it sure help[s when you move! Thanks.

Jack’s Winning Words 11/20/08
“Do not ask the Lord to guide your footsteps if you are not willing to move your feet.” (Sent by G.S.) Many times the prayers we offer require some action on our part to provide an answer. A child goes to a parent and asks for something. “Alright, but first I’d like you to do this.” A partnership is being proposed. Of course, I know that there are other prayers which simply require a believing spirit. ;-) Jack

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: When we say "Give US this day OUR daily bread" , we realize that means that we are now obligated to help others get bread since we are praying not for "me" but for "us"

FROM A.J. IN MI: I really like this one. Don't you think that a believing spirit is sometimes the same as taking the first step? If we don't open our hearts and truly believe, how can a prayer be answered? Hope you have a great Thanksgiving. Say hi to everyone at the Optimist Club.

FROM D.S. IN SAN DIEGO: I like that, Jack. Often times I am wondering "where" God is taking me to do the work he has in mind for me. I'm sure I put up some resistance when I "should be"moving my feet.

FROM J.T. IN MN: Thanks again for your Winning Word. I have joined the Staff Support Committee in church and am heading to my first meeting. It will be with the committee visiting with each pastor, office manager, music of mininstry individually. I am appreciative of today's WW. I just resigned from the Cemetery Committee as I was unable to participate very fully, not being able to drive the 0 degree 180 turn lawn mower, or pour the cement for the sign base, or operate the irrigation system. I felt my abilities, what they are, might be better served on a different committee. Today is my first day on the new committee. Thanks for your prayers.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Absolutely true!

FROM MOLINER J.T.: I had to send the quote on to many friends. One of your best. Thanks

Jack’s Winning Words 11/19/08
“Say NO to negative thinking.” (Seen on a Sweatshirt) Everywhere I went yesterday, people were talking about the economy. Since I’m in Detroit, it wasn’t happy talk, except when I talked with a doctor. He said, “I might be a Pollyanna, but I think that things are going to turn around sooner than we think.” Pollyanna was a little girl who liked to play The Glad Game. She always tried to look on the bright side of every situation. Why not put today’s quote next to your computer? ;-)

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: What has happened to our economy and to our country is a great example of ORIGINAL SIN in action. We are paying the price for the selfish activity in which we have participated. There is a need to atone and then to find a new way. Hopefully the election of Obama points in the direction of a new and better way. MORE: It was WW I and the Great Depression which prompted Reinhold Niebuhr to pen his works that emphasized Original Sin....the return to the naive liberalism of the end of the 19th century has blurred that insight and we need to return to it.

FROM M.L. IN IL: we grew up playing the glad game. i'll never forget the first time i saw pollyanna. we all wanted to be and/or fell in love with hailey mills.

FROM G.S. IN MI: SAY NO TO NEGATIVE THINKING! One day I hopped in a taxi and we took off for the airport. We were driving in the right lane when suddenly a black car jumped out of a parking space right in front of us. My taxi driver slammed on his brakes, skidded, and missed the other car by just inches! The driver of the other car whipped his head around and started yelling at us. My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy. And I mean he was really friendly. So I asked, 'Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and sent us to the hospital! This is when my taxi driver taught me what I now call, 'The Law of the Garbage Truck. He explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it and sometimes they'll dump it on you. Don't take it personally. Just smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it to other people at work, at home, or on the streets. The bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over their day. Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets, so...Love the people who treat you right. Pray for the ones who don't. Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it! Have a blessed, garbage-free day! The seeds you plant today, determine the harvest you reap tomorrow.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Reading the comments from your blog were interesting...it's so easy to blame someone else for the mess we (the USA) are in right now....but I am not an negative person...I believe we will remain the number one country people are DYING to come too. Not a small thing. I also like the story about the taxi driver...that is how I choose to live my life. God is good. MORE: Even when I'm not "feeling" positive, if I say the words often enough....I overcome the negativity...but sometimes it's very hard. :-)

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Negativism is for losers. Put that in your computer and smoke it! REPLY: Do you remember this song?
Smoke, Smoke, Smoke That Cigarette
Written by Merle Travis and Tex Williams
Now I'm a feller with a heart of goldAnd the ways of a gentleman I've been toldThe kind of guy that wouldn't even harm a flea
But if me and a certain character metThe guy that invented the cigaretteI'd murder that son-of-a-gun in the first degree
It ain't cuz I don't smoke myselfAnd I don't reckon that it'll harm your healthSmoked all my life and I ain't dead yet
But nicotine slaves are all the sameAt a pettin' party or a poker gameEverything gotta stop while they have a cigarette
Smoke, smoke, smoke that cigarettePuff, puff, puff and if you smoke yourself to deathTell St. Peter at the Golden GateThat you hate to make him waitBut you just gotta have another cigarette
Now in a game of chance the other nightOld Dame Fortune was a-doin' me rightThe kings and the queens just kept on comin' round
And I got a full and I bet 'em highBut my bluff didn't work on a certain guyHe just kept on raisin' and layin' that money down
Now he'd raise me and I'd raise himI sweated blood, gotta sink or swimHe finally called and didn't even raise the bet
So I said "aces full Pops how 'bout you?"He said "I'll tell you in a minute or twoBut right now, I gotta have me a cigarette"
Smoke, smoke, smoke that cigarettePuff, puff, puff and if you smoke yourself to deathTell St. Peter at the Golden GateThat you hates to make him waitBut you just gotta have another cigarette
(Ah, smoke it! Hah! Yes! Yes! Yes!)
The other night I had a dateWith the cutest little girl in the United StatesA high-bred, uptown, fancy little dame
She loved me and it seemed to meThat things were 'bout like they oughta beSo hand in hand we strolled down lover's lane
She was oh so far from a cake of iceAnd our smoochin' party was goin' niceSo help me cats I believe I'd be there yet
But I give her a kiss and a little squeezeAnd she said, "ah, Marty, excuse me pleaseI just gotta have me another, cigarette"
And she said, smoke, smoke, smoke that cigarettePuff, puff, puff and if you smoke yourself to deathTell St. Peter at the Golden GateThat you hate to make him waitBut you just gotta have another cigarette

FROM PR F.M. IN WI: I just spoke to our broker - I need to send this to him! And try to apply it in our life too!

FROM D.S. IN MI: I choose to believe that this is all happening to make us slow down and remember what is truly important in our lives and also to think about what we need and can afford. Will the greedy people get that same message out of it? We can only wonder. Have a warm day.

FROM G.G. IN INDY: May be my favorite movie....never get tired of watching it. We still sing "America" with a Hailey Mills' accent and laugh everytime .....and I'm still playing and teaching the glad game! Pollyanna was/is a great little teacher!

Jack’s Winning Words 11/18/08
“Everybody has to be somebody to somebody to be anybody.” (Malcolm Forbes) If you were to take a snapshot of your life, is there a somebody who has made a difference? Anybody? You may not know it, but you’ve probably made a difference in somebody’s life, too. ;-) Jack

FROM MOLINER LIZ: My father is the dearest man in the world. (And I'm not saying that because he's my dad!) I wish I could be more like him. He is honest, fair, giving, incredibly smart, has tons of common sense, gives great advice and support and is literally every good thing a person could be. My late mom was the same way. I am grateful that I was blessed with such a wonderful family/role models. I try my hardest to be like them every day.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: My grandma and one of my Sunday school teachers, Mrs. Woike. Both taught me my first lessons about Jesus and I remember being absolutely awed and truly happy to hear of His love. I was 4 or so at the time. MORE: I shouldn't leave out my parents either. They taught me my first prayers, said grace before each meal, and prayers at night. But the most important thing they did for me was to lead a wonderful Christian life. There was never ever a time when they turned anyone down...meals, places to stay, money (when they had it), and a rich full life for us five kids. They also raised 4 others with us and helped more kids than you can imagine. When my dad retired they became very much involved in their Grayling church and in Eastern Stars and Masons. I will miss them everyday of my life.

FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: When I read this again it reminded me of a lady with whom I worked at Nash Mtrs during the war. When we opened our store many old friends and acquaintances came to do Rx business with us. It was very humbling let me tell you. In particular, a very nice gal, a married lady. One day she came in and walked past several other ladies and asked me over and then pulled up her dress to expose Her ( loss of Love Handles)( to Weight Watchers, this is a fatty growth that occurs in some women on the outside upper thigh ). She said,"See Bob they are gone". We both said whooppeee and hugged. Perhaps about 3 or 4 months before she came in to show me the real thing and ask for advice. " I told her to reduce her spaghetti intake and take a rolling pin and roll each love handle six or more times, three times a day." Well it worked, apparently I was somebody to somebody. Shucks, I cry as I remember this lady, we had wonderful customer friends. I miss them.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Some people mean something to all of the people some of the time and all people mean something to some people some of the time, but noit all people mean something to all of the people all of the time. Abe Hodson

Jack’s Winning Words 11/17/08
“Everyone has a plan until they are hit.” (Evander Holyfield) Evander started boxing at age 15 and has taken many punches in the ring. He’s also been hit with a divorce, financial setbacks and betrayal by friends. He didn’t plan it that way. It happened. Have you been able to cope with hits that have come your way? Some have told me that they would not have been able to survive except for God’s help. ;-) Jack

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: A lot of our "hits" are self-obtained, as some of his were. However, life does hand us many unplanned detours....as I call them. Those are handled as well as possible...with a lot of prayer and God's Grace and mercy. REPLY: Judy, I notice that YOUR PLAN almost always makes reference to GOD'S PLAN. That's a good way to plan to meet life's challenges. MORE FROM JUDY: I have always admired Holyfeld...I think he is a class act. I am struggling with my role in His plan right now. I am trying, very hard not to let my plans get in the way and I can't tell which are His and which are mine. It's a tough battle...but I am still fighting it. MORE FROM JACK: Fight the good fight with all thy might!Christ is thy strength, and Christ thy right;Lay hold on life, and it shall beThy joy and crown eternally. Run the straight race through God's good grace,Lift up thine eyes, and seek His face;Life with its way before us lies,Christ is the path, and Christ the prize. Cast care aside, lean on thy Guide;His boundless mercy will provide;Trust, and thy trusting soul shall proveChrist is its life, and Christ its love. Faint not nor fear, His arms are near,He changeth not, and thou art dear;Only believe, and thou shalt seeThat Christ is all in all to thee.

FROM B.P. IN FL: AMEN>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Survival is the operative word...............especially in todays environment.

FROM MOLINER LIZ: Yeah, I'm hangin' in there... faith is a big part of it. And guts.

FROM D.S. IN SAN DIEGO: I hope Obama has God's help because we know he will get "hit" quite often.

FROM MOLINER C.F.: Evander always got back up though, didn't he? Interesting that his name is HOLYfield.

FROM MOLINER J.T.: Amen ! To Gods help. How many "Hits" does one have to take? If it wasn't for my Faith, Church and Grace, I wonder how I would have coped.

FROM M.L. IN IL: many hits. god has always been there, with the help of the "earth angels" that have been given to me. coping is simply a way of moving forward with the strength of those around me, those most dear to me. they are all a gift from the creator.

FROM CJL IN OH: yes and yes

Jack’s Winning Words 11/14/08
“The happiest people don’t necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have.” (Sent by CWR) An elderly man goes every day to eat breakfast with his wife who is an Alzheimer’s patient in a nursing home. “And you still go every morning, even though she doesn’t know who you are?” This was his reply: “She doesn’t know me, but I still know who she is.” I’m amazed by the people who can make the best of unfortunate situations. Do you know anyone like that? ;-) Jack

FROM S.H. IN MI: Thanks again for your Winning Words. I love to reflect upon them and always seem to find something in daily life that they remind me of. Someday I may not have much of a mind and, hopefully, someone might be visiting me faithfully like the guy with his Alzemheimers wife.

FROM L.K. IN OH: Yet another of the many good ones.

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: yes....I grew up right next to Moline and I made the most of it!!! JACK'S RESPONSE: Yes, the good does rub off, even on a Hilltopper.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: A number of them..in my own family...especially right now. I could make a listl! They are happy and continue to laugh and live with huge burdens. God is good. JACK'S REPLY: Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer. Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share?Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer. Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?Precious Savior, still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer.

FROM J.K. IN CA: I just wanted to let you know I really enjoy reading your winning words daily. We are all well in CA. It's supposed to be 90 degrees today and tomorrow. Still like summer out here. I seriously think we will hit the beach this weekend! Happy Thanksgiving a bit earlly. We re going to Wisconsin for Christmas this year! The kids hope to see some serious snow!

FROM CJL IN OH: Several. And it is most helpful & warm!

FROM EMT SINGS IN MI: Did you happen to see the ABC evening news last night (Friday)? The Person of the week was a young man who was born with cerebral palsy.He had several surgeries as a child and was able to walk very awkwardly with a cane. He was unable to participate in sports, but found that he could golf. His goal for this year was to WALK every hole of the major tournaments (I did not get all the facts as I came in at the last) and he was shown completing the last one. It was noted that the distance he had walked since starting this last January was over 900 miles. It was quite a story. I wish I had gotten all the facts. JACK'S RESPONSE: You should be able to see the D. J. Gregory story by using this link. ABC News: Person of the Week: D.J. Gregory Nov 14, 2008 ... Born with cerebral palsy, DJ Gregory was told that he would never walk. Overcoming challenges, Gregory set a goal to walk every round, ...abcnews.go.com/WN/PersonOfWeek/story

FROM M.L. IN IL: countless...i'm fortunate enough to say.

FROM T.C. IN IL: And she still laughs when I tell her the same jokes every day.

Jack’s Winning Words 11/13/08
“All my life I used to wonder what I would like to become when I grew up. Then, about seven years ago, I realized that I was never going to grow up….that growing up is an ever ongoing process.” (M. Scott Peck) When you were a child, what was it that you wanted to become when you grew up? I wanted to be a fireman, but I became a pastor instead. Now, in retirement, I’ve finally grown up and become a chaplain for the Fire Department. ;-) Jack

ANOTHER QUOTE THAT SEEMS TO FIT: "When what we are is what we want to be, that's happiness." (Malcolm Forbes) If you're happy and you know it, say, Amen!

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: A Forest Ranger...but my high school counseler said I couldn't be because there were no women in that area. I was quite the quiet one then and would never have "bucked the system" to become one, unfortunately. Instead, I became a Legal Secretary. How boring...but it paid the bills. Now I am who I want to be, but still growing!

FROM MOLINER G.S.: Hit most of the goals, except that I wanted to own a helicopter. My Aunt Ruth and Uncle Merle Kruse expected me to become an engineer - which I did. Our family can be such a good influence.

FROM M.T. IN PA: Got a good laugh from this one...and....congratulations on reaching your grown-up goal! JACK'S REPLY: But what did you want to be? An art glass designer? MARK'S REPLY: Actually, for quite a while, a Pastor. I did eventually get to work in some churches! JACK'S REPLY: More and more churches are using lay persons to assist If I were your pastor, I'd find some way to help you achieve your childhood desire. I guess in reality, you did become a pastor. Your Holy Spirit windows speak a message every week to the worshippers. We each use our talents in different ways. MARK'S REPLY: And by the way, the inspiration for the windows was a Gift. The opportunity to make them was something I worked for, but I am also ever grateful for having received it. I will never tire of knowing they are appreciated. P.S. To help 'rekindle' my sidetracked career in glasswork, I have secured talabastudio.com for my website. (not 'live' yet, but will soon be populating it with photos and commentary)

MOLINER C.F.: You're still a fireman...saving people from the everlasting inferno. So you have realized your dreams after all. JACK'S REPLY: No, it's Jesus who's that kind of fireman.

FROM N.E. IN S.H.: I'm still thinking about it. If I ever grow up (God forbid) I'll let you know. ;)

FROM BBC IN IL: I did not know you were Chaplain for the fire department - what sparked your interest?

FROM D.S. IN SAN DIEGO: Gee, when I was "little", I wanted to be just like my leader, Jack Freed. Then, when I obtained a greater amount of intelligence, and discovered his political leanings, I decided on becoming a "Conservative" so we could counter "the dark side".

FROM J.B. IN WI: Lucky me. I wanted to be a wife, mommy, and teacher. I got to do all. At that age, I did not even think about becoming a grandma, but I now know that for me, that has been the very best part of this growing up process.

FROM P.L IN MI: How wonderful that you have actually achieved your dream! God has other plans for some of us and we may never know why. I always like to think that we play the cards we are dealt to the best of our ability and with the help of God, make the right choices. MORE: When I was young, I wanted to become an artist! And a Mom! Always loved to draw and create. After high school the dream and promise of going to college was shattered due a lack of money. My dad was a general contractor who suffered great financial loss in his business. Lost our home, had to rent. I went to work and to beauty school paying a week at a time. Later on I took local college courses at night, put together a portfolio and got a job in advertising on my own merit.....no degree. After marriage and kids I returned to the field part time, them full time and finally retired as an art director. Everyone should follow their dreams and follow their heart. God will guide you, but not always down the path you choose. Thanks Jack for all the thought provoking words. I enjoy them each day. Once in a while, one really strikes home. ;-)

FROM M.L. IN IL: you have given in to the "peter pan syndrome". yeah! growing up is a never-ending story. i like watching the pages unfold. quite frankly, each day that passes brings me more youth than age. it's all in the way we choose to look at the world. such newness each day brings! it is our daily gift from the universe/god.

FROM M.N. IN MN: I wanted to be a secretary or a nurse, but opted for Elementary Ed. That was a good choice for me and it served me well. JACK'S REPLY: You would have been a good nurse, or secretary, because you're like Mary Richards....You've got SPUNK!

FROM CJL IN OH: Congratulations! I shall keep you in mind when I chaplain for the Police dept.

FROM M.S. IN IL: Thanks for sharing that Jack as you have come full circle. Remember you introduced me to Civil Air Patrol Chaplaincy 14 years ago. It has been a great experience. I've also met many police and fire department chaplains through my work with CISM. It is a great opportunity for service.

Jack’s Winning Words 1/12/08
“All the money in the world won’t buy you one more day.” (Ted Turner) Perhaps you saw Sunday’s 60 Minutes interview with Billionaire Ted. Like most of us, I think that he was shaped by his childhood. As he grows older, he seems to have come to the realization that there is an end. A verse in the Bible reads: “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world…?” I like this Gospel song:..This world is not my home; I’m just-a passin’ through. My treasures are laid up a way beyond the blue. ;-) Jack

FROM PR P.H. IN MN: also, "i am but a stranger here, heaven is my home"

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: I think of this everytime I hear someone say, "If you drink this juice you will add a day on to your life, or if you take this vitamin, etc." I didn't see the interview, but I hope he comes to realize that Jesus is the only way to eternal life.

JACK'S RESPONSE: One's relationship with God, in every instance, is a personal one, beyond our judgment.

FROM A&P IN MI: You did'nt beat me up;was building fire in stove at 5:30! Ted has mellowed a bit. JACK'S RESPONSE: It was interesting, during the interview, to hear Jane Fonda tell what it was like living with him. The children chimed in, too. Our familes could each tell their stories...just as each of us could witness to what it's been like living with God, the Father.

FROM PR A.W. IN IL: In my second parish , I had a devout, wonderful man who told me about when his son died. He said" I would gladly have given up all I own if only I had one more day with my son."

FROM PR F.M. IN WI: Yes, we watched 60 Minutes on Sunday evening . . . thanks for preserving the best part of the interview!

Jack’s Winning Words 11/11/08
“We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude.” (Cynthia Ozick) I remember the time in grade school when the whole class would stand at attention on November 11, at 11 am, in honor of Armistice Day. The word, armistice, derives from the Latin and means a suspension of hostilities by agreement of opponents. A well deserved THANK YOU to our veterans today! ;-) Jack

FROM S.G. IN MI: This day is quite significant in history for many reasons---it is also the birthday of Gen. Patton (and a very nice neighbor friend of mine....) The flag is flying proudly at Pixley in Keego.

FROM B.C. IN F.H.: That's a nice one

FROM MOLINER LIZ: Thank you to all our veterans and their families for the many sacrifices they have made and continue to make on our behalf. God Bless America and the world. May there be peace.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: Freedom isn't free and out vets have suffered so we could be free...even those against them. God bless the Veterans. JACK'S REPLY: I have a friend who fought for the Germans as a teen-ager in WW 2 and lost an eye in battle. "We kids just believed what we were told." After he and his family came to America, he joined my congregation in Illinois. He joined the choir. No one sang more loudly anf proudly (in a German accent), "America, America, God shed his grace on thee...."

FROM PR J.S. IN MI: I liked it better when it was Armistice Day. Then it stood for PEACE. We have militarized so many of our holidays so that now Nov. 11th stands for WAR. I think that is a mistake. The whole Reagan Era has been about war and might. I think and hope that Obama might return us to being leaders of peacefulness instead of being "bullies" as Desmond Tutu characterized us.

FROM MOLINER G.S.: But the freedom that they fought for, and the country grand they wrought for,Is their
monument to-day, and for aye.~Thomas Dunn English

FROM G.M. IN MI: Amen

FROM D.C. IN MI: I remember the Armistice Day storm in Minnesota. It was in 1940. ( I just looked it up to be sure.) I knew it was either in 1940 or 41 because it was before I started school. I was 4, and I can remember it clearly. We were without power for several days, but my mother could cook on the laundry stove in the basement, and the back porch could be the refrigerator. I know we had devotions around the dining room table using the Coleman lantern for light. My dad always had to shovel coal into the furnace and I know he said then that he was glad he didn't have "a stoker" like lots of the people had. My brother Dan made lots of money shoveling snow. I didn't see this, but remember hearing how tons of Thanksgiving turkeys froze to death near Willmar.(We lived in Hector, MN.) So if you want more info on this storm, look up 1940 MN Armistice Day Storm.

FROM M.N. IN MN: They still have Armistice Day Ceremonies for the whole town in Warren, Minnesota. And that is the way it should be!!!

FROM PR F.M. IN WI: Amen - I have the same memory - we had to face the east.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: I wanted to tell you about my little grandson's prayers tonight....
"Dear Jesus, Thank you for all the soldiers in history and chocolate."
What a wonderful prayer. Ya never know what's comin in his prayers.