Jack’s Winning Words 9/8/22

“”I was going to quit, but I wasn’t done.”  (Sent by Elizabeth R)  A cartoon shows a disheveled woman asking, “Do I work at home, or do I live at work.”  Are you one of those virtual employees?  If you have a strong work ethic, you know the feeling.  You’re given a job.  You do the job.  No excuses.  I.B. was the first one at his desk at the place where I got my first real job.  He taught me a lot…discipline, honesty, reliability6, pride.  I guess that in today’s world, you’d call him a mentor…somebody you learn from.  Is there someone who has taught you a work ethic?    ;-)  Jack   

FROM ER IN SJ:  My farm chores taught me my work ethic. Animals need to eat! Thanks for the quote, but it was Kevin's words not mine.===JACK:  Come to think about it.......I've never seen a clock in a barn.===ER:  Nor I! Those farmers are SMART.===JACK:  Some animals are smarter...They have a built-in clock.  It's amazing that they know feeding times.===ER:  Kinda like you and snack times?===JACK:  My clock is off since moving to a new time zone.

FROM NORM'S BLOG:  A cartoon shows a disheveled woman asking, “Do I work at home, or do I live at work.”  Are you one of those virtual employees?  If you have a strong work ethic, you know the feeling.  You’re given a job.  You do the job.  No excuses.===JACK:  Both you and I, Norm, are our own bosses.  What kind of boss do you have?  Mine is easy to work for.  He wants me to get things done of my own....BUT to ge things done. 

FROM ST PAUL:  my father had a very strong work ethic.  his dad died when my dad was just 9 years old.  he worked lots of jobs as a young boy and then throughout most of his life.===JACK:  I've been told that one of the "strongest" points on a work resume is that the applicant has grown up on a farm.===SP:   the five grandkids that live on a hobby farm near Northfield all have good work habits and routines too.===JACK:  Lucky them...and to live in Minnesota, too! 

FROM JU IN NC:  My family, especially my brother Jack. When I in the 10 th grade I had a very hard math class . After supper he would help me for hours and made it possible to pass the class.  This was following a hard day's work on the farm. His work ethic changed my life. ===JACK:  ...and he continues to have that work ethic.  There's something to be said about the value of growing up as ranch kids.

FROM SR RD:  Surely, it was my Mom and Dad!===JACK:  Tell me more about them!

FROM QUILTING CAROL:  I guess I would have to say I learned at my mother’s knee.  She worked from daylight until after supper and when we were in school and even later sometimes it was until bedtime.  There were PTA or LCW meetings at night which she attended or chaired.  The only day she wasn’t bustling about was on Sunday – we went to church, had a home noon meal than pretty quiet the rest of the day unless we can company – invited or drop – in.  Whatever the task she filled her days taking care of her family, looking out for others and donating her time and talents.  I don’t think I could have asked for a better teacher, mentor, friend or mom!===JACK:  I think that I remember your mom when she was with you when you were going to S of the L.  ...and, if so, I remember her as you described.  You were just a young kid back then..  

FROM DR J IN MAUMEE:  Once when Kiki was about 6 years old, she took art lessons at the art museum.  One of her classmates put up a big fuss when her parent told them it was time to go. She LOUDLY cried out, “But I’m not done yet!”  A thought that has stayed with me ever since is that we need to make education so interesting and meaningful that students will cry out” But I’m Not DONE YET!” When it’s time to leave our classrooms.  Call me a dreamer… but it can be done!===JACK:  What a great and appropriate illustration.  Connecting it to education is perfect.  Save it for your next book.

 

 

 Jack’s Winning Words 9/7/22

“Thank you, Lord for seeing me.  It’s so easy to get lost these days in the shuffle and the noise.”    (George Beverly Shea song)  There’s a reason why I don’t play the Mega Lottery – the chances of winning are 1 in 302,575,306.  But, there is a reason why I pray.  I believe that in spite of the fact that there are over 7 billion people in the world, the Creator God is aware of each one.  “Thank you, Lord, for knowing that I exist and for caring about me.  Horns, yelling, sirens, gunshots, crying – even the softest of prayers – God hears and knows.  Don’t give up.  Keep the faith.  “Thank you, Lord, for knowing who I am. George Beverly Shea has put these words to music…one of my favorite songs.  ;-)  Jack” 

FROM SK IN SJ:  Believing supports that we are never alone. God is always here for us.  By the way, did you have a good B-day?? Did you get a cake? I love cake and ice cream, ha! Love you guys!===JACK:  If anyone knows of the presence of Sounds yummy! Enjoy your day today as well. I’m going to help make greeting cards today. It’s a fun and creative time. Love and hugs to both of you!😊❤️❤ ===SK: GSounds yummy! Enjoy your day today as well. I’m going to help make greeting cards today. It’s a fun and creative time. Love and hugs to both of you!😊❤️❤===JACK:  Make one for us and send it sometimes as a surprise.===FROM SK IN SJ:  Good idea!===JACK:  Ideas are always floating around.  The trick is to grab the goood ones and hang on to them..️

od at ALL times, it has to be you.  We are pleased to have you as our friend.===SK:   

FROM JU IN NC:  Thanks for sharing such a beautiful message.===JACK:  The lyrics are by Kurt Kaiser.  You can pull them up if you can't get GBS.

FROM WOODWIND JACKIE:  I love your positive attitude!  👍  This is the day that the Lord has made, Let us rejoice and be glad in it!===JACK:  Let us say about today --- "This is the day the Lord has made."

FROM DAZ IN COLORADO:  That’s particularly comforting these days.  ===JACK:  There are "THOSE" days when we particularly need comforting.

FROM JJ:  Prayer is better than the lottery. I recall the old joke of the man who prayed to God every day that he might win the lottery. He prayed fervently day after day and finally, at the temple, cried out loud: “Lord, I am a good man; I have done everything you ever asked, and I ask now is that I should win the lottery! Finally, in an audible voice, he heard God clearly: “Buy a ticket!”  We want results without effort. The older man can’t ride the train unless the young man sets aside funds for the future ticket.

 

 Jack’s Winning Words 9/6/22

“Don’t let yourself forget what it was like to be sixteen.”  (Unknown)  Do you remember when you were 16?  For me, it was the middle of WW 2.  The Holocaust was real!  Glenn Miller was the favorite band and the popular songs were Mairzy Doats (I still sing it), Good Night, Irene and Pistol Packi’ Mama.  FDR was President.  Rosie the Riveter was introduced to us…and so was food-rationing.  There were race-riots in Detroit.  Some great musicians were born: Jim Croce, Janis Joplin,, Barry Manilow and Mick Jagger.  I contracted polio (which redirected my life).  I’ll never EVER forget what it was like to be 16>  What was16 like for you…a positive or a negative?  ;-)  Jack

FROM BEE CEE :  HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD <3 !!!===JACK:  Thanks for remembering!

FROM CR:  Vietnam war, televised coverage, anti war protests, environmental awareness movements, Earth Day, Nixon president, Watergate, Roe v Wade decision, <5 years prior, United Methodist church allowed women to be ordained as pastors, <5 years prior R. Kennedy and MLK, Jr assassinated, minimum wage $1.60/hr which I thought beat the heck out of babysitting for 50 cents/hr. 😊 ===JACK:  Oh, to be sixteen!  Each year has its memories, good and bad and in-between.  Life goes on.  I like the song, "One day at a time, sweet Jesus."

FROM SHARIN' SHARON:  Good morning, Pastor Freed, and Happy Birthday!!!===SK:  I go back to feeling sixteen when our familiar rock and roll songs are played. I went to a show called “ hits of the 60’s” and all the fun of high school and first boyfriends, dances at our local ballroom. Those were the funnest of times. How about you?===JACK:  For one thing, I didn't have as much fun as you seemed to have.

My mom always used to sing Mairzy Doats while she was working in the house.  Never knew how it was spelled but it sounds like that.  I only remember 16 as being a blur of busyness as mom was having the 2 youngest siblings.  I do remember getting my driver’s license.  The patrol man or someone talked me through the parallel parking so I could get it—he said I wouldn’t have to know how to do it anyway in our area of rural Iowa.  All that stuff was part of my life and formed me into the person I am today so in retrospect it was positive but I wouldn’t choose to be reincarnated as a 16 year old—experiencing the facts of life in our family was kind of intense and not leisurely and relaxed, as I think I remember.  More like things were out of control or something.  I imagine having polio was sort of similar.  Glad you survived it.  Enjoy a very nice birthday celebration,===JACK:  Although I was more than 16 when we met, I'm happy to have you in my memory bank.  Marzing Doats was a fun song.  Translation: Mares eat oats and does eat oats and little lambs eat ivy.

FROM HONEST JOHN:  I was 16 in 1955….Ike was Prez….it was the end of my Sophomore year in high school…..was playing #6 on the tennis team….had started in debate….loved life…..good times!===JACK:  My sister, Nancy, from naperville is here for a visit.  She remembers Joan....your sister?  It sounds as thought age 16 was a good time for you.

FROM EDUCATOR PAUL:  Happy birthday dear friend. Hope today is all you want it to be.===JACK:  Thanks for the well wishes.

FROM JOE ANN:  My Dad would often sing Mairzy Doats. I wonder where that song came from. Do you know Jack.?===JACK:  You would have had singing this song along with the kindergartners..."Mares eat oats and does eat oats and little lambs eat ivy."===JA:  Oh my Jack! That song is amazing. I bet my Dad is singing it up there to any angel who will listen to it.===JACK:  If it's Heaven, there's got to be music...all kinds - not just hymns.

FROM DAIRYLAND DONNA:  Happy birthday dear Jaaaa-ack, happy birthday to youuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu! Donna 😊🎉😍🎶===JACK:  You've still got it!===DD:  You've got that wrong Jack. You're the one who still got it. 😊👍😃===JACK:  ...as l;ong as I can sing the song: "Roll out of bed in the mornin' with a great big smile and a good, good mornin'.  Get up with a grin.  There's a new day a-tumblin' in. etc."

FROM BB IN CHGO:  Jack, funny but I recall almost nothing.  A big blurr… ===JACK:  Doesn't Google jog your memory?  I suppose that you were in a Chicago high school.===BB:  .Palatine H.S. and working hard to get out in 3 years rather than 2 so I could attend med school.  Not living in the present; not for a minute.===JACK:  No goals in high school for me.  I didn't know the name of a college.  Higher education was not on my bucket list.  How life changes....Right?

FROM ST PAUL:  hey,  Happy Birthday,  OLD man!!!:):):)   and thanks for the history lesson today.   i am a bit younger than you but even my life was affected by some of the events that you mentioned.  i was born two weeks before D Day.  i was a baby and thousands of men were dying on the Beaches of Normandy.    How thankful I should be for their sacrifices! ===JACK:  I experienced all of the Great Depression, all of WW 2; all of lots of things that affected my life.===SP:  you should go on that silly TV show "Survivor"  and show them what a real survivor looks like!  ===J:  I have to acknowledge the presence of God in helping me to get through some pretty hard times...generally and personally.

FROM DS IN SOCAL:  Jack, learning that you had polio when you were young is a big surprise to me.  I remember  Tom Rogers having to live a great deal of his life in an "Iron Lung".  His brother, and his family were very close with my family and I recall how tough it was.  Those were the days when we couldn't go swimming in certain places.  Very scary until they came out with the polio vaccine.  When you were coaching us I had no idea that you had-had polio.  I take it that it was a more mild form of it than Tom Rogers had.  ===JACK:  My sister Nancy is here for my birthday.  She and her husband, Herb Carlmark, were caregivers for Tom and became very close friends of his.  My polio affected the deltoid muscle in my right arm and caused me to learn to be left-handed in sports.  The polio disease caused me to rejected by the military (4-F) and also caused me to rethink my life.  Mrs Tillberg called one night and asked me to think about becoming a pastor...and the rest is history.  Was Nancy in your grade at high school?  Graduated in 1947 ===SOCAL:    I'm at VA now getting some new hearing aids===JACK:  That reminds me...mine are due for a tune-up.. 

FROM RS IN TEXAS:  Celebrations in moderation, I trust.....not like you might have when you were 16===JACK:  There may be snow on the roof, but the firse still burns inside..

FROM WOODWIND JACKIE:  Interesting recollections!===JACK:  The actual life has been even better.

FROM SY:  Hope you have a day and year as SPECIAL as you!===JACK:  So far, so good.  No 95 spankings, yet.

FROM CPA MIKE:  Great topic. Might be my favorite and most memorable age. We won the city baseball championship and I bought my first car a 1956 Plymouth.===JACK:  I always appreciate my conversations with you...virtual or real.  You are one of a kind.

FROM FACEBOOK LIZ:  hope it was lovely!   i colored this on recolor coloring book app. hooked on that and NYT wordle.  do you like macarons? if so, what flavors?===JACK:  At first I thought that that was a picture of the back of your head...and that you had colored your hair.  The birthday party was great, and I did have some chocolate macaroons, made by my sister.

FROM ATTY MD:  Hello Mr. F -- this is Mary D, a long-time friend of Jeanne's.  I still love reading your "winning words," but today in particular, I wanted to wish you a very happy 95th birthday!  I hope you are having a great day.  And, for the record, I too sing Mairzy Doats from time to time..... haha!!!!===JACK:  Maybe wecan sing it as a duet sometime.  The birthday celebration was great.  A few family and friends were missing because of othe commitments, but the ribs from Famous Dave's were great.....and I haven't forgotten you.

FROM DAZ IN COLORADO:  16 was learning to drive in a 32 Chevie and taking the drivers test which included a stop at the top of a hill.. Start up without stalling the engine was required. No automatic transmissions.Those were the days.===JACK:  David has a stick shift BMW.  He likes it better than the automatic.  I suppose that there will be no shifting with electric vehicles.  I'd like to see what would happen is some of today's kids were asked to drive a stick shift..  

 

 

 Jack’s Winning Words 9/2/22

“If Plan A doesn’t work, the alphabet has 25 more letters.  Stay cool!”  (Unknown)  Have you ever played the WHAT IF game?  What if I’d continued dating that person?  What if I’d chosen that other job?  What if I’d moved there, instead of here?  Options present themselves.  Choices have to be made.  I believe that Plan A isn’t the only workable plan.  There’s a prayer that’s been made into a song - ”Lead me, guide me, along the way.”  I’ve felt the Spirit of God leading me in my choices…and I have not been disappointed. Remember that the “B” in Plan B can sometimes stand for the “Best” plan.  What plan are you on?  A, B or X?  ;-)  Jack

FROM JU IN NC:  The G Plan.  God's plan for my life.  I am not sorry for all my plans.  But I am discovering they have limited satisfaction.  God's plan generates a sense of fullness that leaves me content. ===JACK:  Is everything  God's plan?  I sometimes wonder....however, I believe that God can take even the worst of things and turn it into the best of things.  

FROM ST PAUL:  this is a really GOOD one, Jack.  i am sending it to 5 of my grandkids.  have a good weekend:):) ===JACK:  To recommend something to one's grandchild is a high compliment.  I'm proud to have had the opportunity to experience the growing-up years of six.  Special, special.  Great-grandchild, Kya, is just one-year old.  My experiences with her will probably be a heavenly mystery. .===SP:  well said.   we now have 12 grandkids (Abel Zechariah,  how is that for OT names?:):) was born just two weeks ago to Becca and Rory.  so a "dozen cousins".  we are blessed too ===JACK:  You, indeed, have a blessed family.  God is good.  When I went to the ER a year, or, so, ago.  My nurse was Jedadiah...I'd never met anyone with that name before.  I'd never been that close to death before, either.. 

FROM CPA MIKE:  On several occasions my plans fell through later to discover that the plan would have been a disaster. God to the rescue.===JACK:  Sometimes I need to reminded that my friends have feelings similar to my own.  Thanks for being such a friend.

FROM BB IN CHGO:  Great words once again and I love that song.  Thanks for putting it front of mind today.===JACK:  So many memories with so many songs to fit them.

FROM G 7:  I try the B Plan!===JACK:  Life has worked out pretty well without worrying about what letters to label the plans.

FROM DAZ IN COLORADO:  In the missile business we did the operational control panel designs with three option a plan A, Plan B and Plan C. I wanted plan B as the most accurate so we made A and C accordingly. They wanted choices and B was unanimous. ===JACK:  Does today's missile business make it seem as though you were working on the Model T?  What's this with Aldrin saying that the moon landing was stages?

 

Jack’s Winning Words  9/1/22 “September tries its best to have us forget summer.”  (Bern Williams)  Do you have a favorite  month?  Mine happens to be September.  April is a close second.  Maybe it’s because I like the seasons, autumn and springtime.  I’ve lived long enough to have found enjoyment in each age of life, too.  The teens were fun, and going to college and seminary was an exciting experience.  My job as a pastor was challenging and rewarding.  Family life?  It couldn’t have been better.  With  relatively good health and new friends, the golden years have been golden   In spite of today’s quote, I don’t want to forget summer, or any of the good memories I have.  How about you?  What do you treasure in your memory bank?  ;-)  Jack FROM G7:  I enjoy Summer but look forward to September to see God's splendor!===JACK:  A summer storm knocked out my internet and my TV for several days.  I did NOT like that. FROM WILLMAR REV:  "What do I treasure most in my memory bank?" ...     The more I trust Him, the more I love Him  Nothing good for me He'll deny  The longer I know Him, the better I can show Him  I couldn't stop now if I tried   (Chorus): It gets sweeter as the days go by  It gets sweeter as the moments fly  His love is richer, deeper, fuller, sweeter  Sweeter, sweeter, sweeter as the days go by   Oh, the moment He saved my His good grace He gave me  He place His love down deep in my heart  There's great joy in knowing with Him I am going  And never more from Him to depart  (Chorus) (Repeat) It gets sweeter as the days go by  It gets sweeter as the moments fly  His love is richer, deeper, fuller, sweeter  Sweeter, sweeter, sweeter as the days go by  Sweeter, sweeter, sweeter as the days go by   0;-)  ===JACK:  I know that song!  ...and I like it, too! FROM DANDI SANDI:  My treasure chest is filled with a loving family and devoted friends. Everything starts there. Blessed with good health and good life choices. 🥰===JACK:  I'm sure that your list includes some students who remember you as their teacher. FROM JU IN NC:  That I even have a memory?===JACK:  Sometimes we forget thank God for that magical gift of being able to recall.  Thanks for reminding me of that. FROM BB IN CHGO:  I love September too.  October a close second.  I concur with you about he “golden years” as well.  Other than gaining a few and having some creaks where there were formerly none, it’s a grand time  to be alive.===JACK:  As the days dwindle down...I appreciate seeing my family growing up into the adults that they have become.  "Parenting" has not been in vain.  Your "two" have your fingerprints on their lives...for the good.

 Jack’s Winning Words  8/30/22

“We should not be afraid to go into a new era, to leave the old behind.”  (Zach Wamp)  Zach was a Tennessee politician who prided himself in being bi-partisan.  He wanted to get things done without caring who got the credit.  I like his thought, too, of trying new things.  I recall how apprehensive I was when first learning to use the computer.  Now…a piece of cake (not).  Last week I saw a video of the coming robot-age.  Problems?  Yes.  Fear?  No  A hymn has this line: “New occasions teach new duties”  I like that.  Face the future, trusting that you have God as a friend who goes with us.  We need more Wamps in this world and fewer wimps.  ;-)  Jack. 

FROM WOODWINDS:  What is WAMP (Beginners Friendly Guide) (hostinger.com)  You got me curious as to what exactly a "Wamp" is.... is this what you had in mind?  🤔  ===JACK:  As far as I know, Wamp is the last name of a man from Tennessee who was an admired politician.

FROM ST PAUL:  certainly our years at SLLC were wonderful in soo many ways.  good friends and a loving congregation of God's people to be serving for 8 1/2  years.===JACK:  Compared to SOTV?  Each of my ministries was special in its own way.  Someone recently asked her sibling: "Which of your children do you like the best?"  It was taken as an inappropriate question.===SP:  Good point.  SLLC was such a great training ground for me to practice my skills.  and a very caring and forgiving congregation.    perhaps preparing me for  sotv?    i like to think so.  Good point.  SLLC was such a great training ground for me to practice my skills.  and a very caring and forgiving congregation.    perhaps preparing me for  sotv?    i like to think so.  ===JACK:  Perhaps in the eyes of God, "the least shall be first."  I sometimes feel that way about my calling.   

FROM EMT SINGS IN TC:  I really treasure all of your WW. I do not respond nearly often enough, but know that my days are brightened every time I read them! ===JACK:  Responses are fun to read, but remembering past experiences that we've had is the best.

FROM SHALOM JAN:  "Once to every (one) and nation . . ."  slightly updated, is still a good poem/hymn . . . for we each have decisions to make that will determine our future.  Thanks, Wamp and thanks, Jack.===JACK:  "Once to every person and nation comes the moment to decide."  Think about the decisions you've had to make in your lifetime....life altering, but God has been with you all the way.

 

 

 

Jack’s Winning Words  8/31/22 “Then I have a new worry. If God dies, who will run the world? I hope it’s not the Nazis”  (Jennifer Roy – from the book, Yellow Star )  I plan to visit our local Holcaust museum soon. I want….no, I need…. to see the tree grown from a sprig of the Anne Frank tree, a railroad car used to send Jews to killing centers, and one of the yellow 6-pointed stars used as a humiliating mark of identification of Jews by the Nazis.  I’ve talked with survivors.  It is hard to believe that anyone would want to live under a dictatorship with freedom taken away. I have chosen to “preach” about a God of love who tells us to love one another as He has loved us. Have you found a way to show love to other human beings?  ;-)  Jack.  FROM EMT SINGS IN TC:  The Bible Study group that I was in (and still am a part of via zoom) visited the Holocaust Museum years ago. You will never regret going or will not be the same after seeing it! ===JACK:  Some museums are for entertainment.  The Holocaust one is for education. FROM JOE ANN:  My husband loves me when I stop chattering . I must love him because chattering is my favorite thing to do! Have a sunny day Jack ===JACK:  I'm trying to remember the song, Chatterbox.  Do you know it?. FROM SK IN SJ:  I saw Anne Frank’s house. Very small space for them. Also, so very bad for the Jews in that Dictatorship. We need to be better than that! Let God make the choices. Our America is too greedy. Can’t take money and possessions with you when you die. It’s just stuff. Hope you trip was good. Hope to see you again soon! ===JACK: I never thought I'd see the day when a large number of Americans were willing to risk voting for a dictatorship...but I have. FROM DANDI SANDI:  Good morning. We just had another visit to the Holocaust Museum here with a group of friends, mostly non-Jews who wanted to participate in the experience with us. Our docent was a retired local prosecutor named Michael, who guided us with knowledge and stories. He was amazing. An adult child of a now-deceased survivor spoke with us at the end of our tour. Always an emotionally moving experience, especially horrific in the midst of our current political scene. No words.  ===JACK:  Do you know any of Jewish heritage that are deniers of the Holocaust? FROM COPPER COUNTRY BOB:  Amen!    I've been at the museum.  We've taken our kids and grandkids to the museum.  But America is sure tottering on the edge of authoritarianism.  God have mercy.===JACK:  As the song goes..."When will they ever learn?" FROM FACEBOOK LIZ:  you do remember what can happen when freedoms are revoked! hope you vote accordingly this time ===JACK:  I've been satisfied with Brandon. FROM WOODWIND JACKIE:  This is the day that the Lord has made,  Let us rejoice and be glad in it!===JACK:  The Hour of Power always began with those words. FROM BLAZING OAKS:  I've been there and it is devastating, yet a mindful reminder of what can happen if we are indifferent or unconcerned!!!===JACK:  Several generations have not known the horror of Nazism, except for what they read in history books...if indeed they read history books.  And now, if we're forbidden to teach history, where are we headed?

 

Jack’s Winning Words 8/29/22 “What God intended for you goes far beyond anything you can imagine.”  (Oprah Winfrey)  As I think about God’s intention for my life, I think of the song, “The love of God is greater far than tongue or pen can ever tell etc.”  Have you seen God active in your life…through some experience, or because of some person who has changed the direction in which you were heading?  When you stop to think about it, life is mysterious.  As you go about your day, don’t hold back your imagination.  Try to see what God sees in you.;-)  Jack FROM ST PAUL:  well said, Jack.  thanks.   and yes,  the older i get, i see more and more wonderful mysteries to my life and to others too.   like yours, for example.===JACK:  The point that I wanted to make is that we each have a life to live.  The mistake is to compare it with others instead of focusing on how to make it match  what God sees as possible.  Did you  (or I) live up to God's expectations for us?  FROM JOE ANN:   I knew my parents did not have the money to send any of their children to college. I thought my dream of becoming a teacher was just a dream. In seventh grade a teacher told me she believed I could get all A’s if I believed that too. The story ends with my dream coming true. That teacher and God are good!===JACK:  What an inspiring story.  Thanks.  It jus shows what can happen with encouragment and desire of your part.  God had in mind for you to be a teacher... and you became a good one. FROM GOOD DEBT JON:  Have you seen the movie "I Can Only Imagine."   Great story related to your post.  I Can Only Imagine https://a.co/d/0zYl0zO  Have a great day...===JACK:  So many movies, so little time.  ...but this one sounds like watching.     f

 Jack’s Winning Words 8/26/22

“Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been.”  (Mark Twain)  Recently I heard of a blind man who could tell things about people by feeling their face.  He could sense laugh lines, signs of worry and stress…all without the use of eyes.  What would he to be able to tell about you?  If someone will allow you, touch that person’s face.  Any wrinkles?  Try to create some future wrinkles today by smiling at everyone you see. BTW, do you remember the name of the wrinkled man in the Dick Tracy comic strip?  I was raised not to comment about the looks of people.  ;-)  Jack 

FROM JU IN NC:  I understand that our eyes reveal the depths of our souls.  Many people avoid looking directly into their eyes in front of a mirror because they do not feel good about what they see.  Take a few moments and stare directly into the reflection of your eyes. Is the image soft and comfortable or hard and troubling?  The more of the Bible we read and spend time in the peaceful presence of God, will soften our presentation.===JACK:  I asked my eye doctor if she could see my soul by looking into my eyes.  She didn't have an answer for that.  Maybe she was never required to take a class in philosophy.===JU:  Allow me to share a true story.  A lady received news that her father had 3 months to live due to a terminal Illness.  She became deeply depressed and prayed for comfort.  A bright ball of light came up beside her.  This light remained by her for the duration of the last days of her father's life.  When he passed, the ball of light left.  She again started to become depressed.  But she had told some of her christian friends about this light earlier.  One day they asked if she would share her experience with the Christian circle they were part of?  At first she resisted but agreed.  As she stood before the group, she suddenly began to sob uncontrollably.  Then told them about the ball of light, and explained when she stood in front of them that looking at their faces the same light of the ball shone from their eyes.===JACK:  I, too, have seen the LIGHT.  I'll have to tell you about it sometime.

FROM ST PAUL:  i always felt sooo badly for Chuck L and his rare skin condition.  but he did not let that slow him down very much from what i could tell.  a really nice guy by all measures.===JACK:  His wife, Martha, was a saint.  She saw beyond the skin condition.  In a way, I'm glad that you had to remind me on that situation.  In a way, it means that it is not a high priority in my memory bank. ===SP:  and that says a lot about you too!

FROM SR RD:  Right now, my face is sad and a bit angry!!! We had a disagreement!!!  Pray for us, Jack!===JACK:  "All sunshine makes a desert."  Even the disciples had their disagreements.  I will pray for "understanding" and for "a willingness to forgive."  Thank you for your friendship.  You are a saint !  

 

 

 Jack’s Winning Words 8/25/22

“If our god is not big enough to be the God of all, even of those who deny God, then our god is not God.”  (Anant Ranbachan)  With this quote Anant has given me something to think about today.  A favorite book of mine is titled, Your God Is Too Small by J B Phillips.  Anant and J.B. have helped me to understand that GOD is bigger than my concept of God.  I was led to believe that the God of the Bible is the one true God.  But, GOD is bigger than my concept of Him.  He is that…and more.  What do you think?  Is there room in our thought process for a “God of all?”  The book, “Your God Is Too Small,” is one I recommend for “thinkers.”  ;-)  Jack

FROM MAGGIE:  Good morning. Homer Hutto read “Your God is too Small” as he journeyed his life of faith. I have that copy. A visualization I often share with people to try and help them break free from their limited concept of G-D is this: Picture traveling into our atmosphere and then out into space. Continue the visual to the edge of our solar system and then the edge of our galaxy. The creator has made all of that and myriads more. We are now blessed with telescope images that help us with our visualization. This practice I hope helps some to remove the Lord from the carefully constructed box we have placed “him” into. Thank you, ===JACK:  Your God Is Too Small and his translation of the New Testament into modern English are two of the most helpful books in my library.

FROM THE SCIENTIST:  The other day, my daughter was explaining how she saw the Hindu trimurti relating to the Christian trinity; father=creator, spirit=preserver, son=destroyer. We had just heard the lesson of Jesus coming to shake things up, even bringing discord within families. I confessed I was not familiar with the trimurti but saw that as an interesting connection. She said she had been waiting for me to disagree and show her how she was wrong. It sparked a “one God” conversation ===JACK:  Like mother, like daughter.  It 's beautiful to "see" how the mind works.  I'd lover to have her as on of my confirmation students.

FROM SHARIN' SHARON:  Been reflecting on the profoundness of your WW and realizing that I struggle with is the Bible tells me that the God that is portrayed there is the one true God, have spent money and time and energy reading all sorts of commentaries and perspectives—my God this is insane, too complicated, too BIG!!!!!  Then I reflected that the saving thing for my poor addled mind and, in fact, the well-being of my whole being and social being in this world is those Sacraments, that my formation includes God’s being Present to me in the washing of my body and the nourishing of my body through my digestive tract—universal needs of every human body though these I guess are regulated by faith institutional means.  In my thought process there is room for a God of all but He becomes mysteriously small enough for me to eat, as well as so big I can’t even wrap my mind around Him or maybe Her or maybe They, so much I don’t deeply understand yet.  Profound WW and it’s easy for me to believe a merciful loving God is probably compassionate towards those who deny G-d.  I have it in me to be compassionate and sympathetic too.  Have a blessed day,===JACK:  Stay tuned.  I have a WWs coming up about a GOD who is sooooo BUG that He encompasses ALL Gods of every religion.  A God so big that we are unable to humanly imagine.  One of the reasons "for Jesus" is that God wants us to understand Him from a human point of view.

FRO ST PAUL:  when talking about other world religions,  here is my quote:   Does God reveal himself in all religions of the world?  i surely hope so and i believe that he does.  but never so clearly as in the person of Jesus Christ.   if you want the clearest picture of what God is really like,  look at the life of Jesus Christ.    and seldom has anyone really challenged me on this statement===JACK:  God is Jesus...and more!===SP:  and therein lies the BIG difference.   

FROM SR RD:  Thanks, Jack! Yes, I agree with you on this and our conversation at lunch yesterday! Our "concept" of God is too SMALL!===JACK:  Through prayer and conversation we have been able to see a BIGGER God, a God of ultimate love.  "Love one another as I have loved you."

FROM ANANT:  Greetings my friend. I trust that all continues well with you.  You honor me by quoting these words for your reflection.  Thank you.  I look forward to seeing you again.===JACK:   It is you that I should be thanking for helping me to see a bigger  God.

FROM FACEBOOK LIZ:  every religion the world over is convinced theirs is right...===JACK:  I don't believe that.

FROM PROUD MARY:  I believe in the God of All. Many Prophets…many Cultures…one Goal===JACK:  .....all of that....and more.  We continue to seek to know the unknowable.  

FROM WEB:  Whether stories are factual or allegorical is not essential; it is the truth within the lesson that matters. Both contextualists and literalists have a place; however this view is not shared by literalists.===JACK:  Keep on thinking in this way....and you will approach the truth.

FROM SHALOM JAN:  Check out an article in the NY Times about the Oberammergau Passion Play being "on" for this year after a two-year COVID delay.  There are two Muslim residents (Turkish immigrant families) who are attached to the play -- one a main character, one a more minor character and assistant director.  The old rules restricted participation in so many ways; they are gradually being updated by the Town Council at the instigation of the directors over the years.  Changes in the play are also carefully discussed by a group of Catholic clergy.  Still GOD is bigger than any person can imagine. It's a good article and makes me want to go again -- my husband and I went in 2000.  I'm preaching on Jesus as the rude guest (Luke 14:1, 7-14) this coming Sunday.  Jesus' characteristics far exceeded most of our cramped imaginations and tightly polite images.  While increasing our images of God, we need to expand our ideas about Jesus, and what he wanted to tell us, too!===JACK:  By Jove, I think that she's got it!   "Change and decay in all around I see.  O Thou, who changest not, abide with me."  That's one of my favorite hymn passages.

FROM DAZ IN COLORADO:   Interesting. I can't conceive a trillion of anything and yet to know that God is much bigger/more than that.===JACK:  If you can't thinkl that BIG, neither can I.  I admire your mind.===DAZ:  I can handle star sightings on the way to the moon, the thrust of Saturn V, and take comfort in the bigness of God but some numbers are just numbers. ===JACK:  The vastness of space is in comprehensible...as is GOD.

FROM JENS R:  Got mit.===JACK:  I'm not surprised.  You were one of my "thinking" sudents.

 

Jack’s Winning Words 8/24/22 “You can close your eyes to the things you don’t want to see, but you can’t close your heart to the things you don’t want to feel.”  (Johnny Depp)  Julia Andrews said that the song, Feelings, is one of the hardest for her to sing, not only because of the tune, but also because of what the lyrics are trying to express, the feeling of love.  How do you put love into words?  “Say it with flowers,” say the florists.  8 billion candy hearts have “love words” written on them.  Perhaps best is to simply say, “I love you,” to someone you care about.  Maybe it’s not Valentine’s Day today, but every day is a good day to open your heart and tell someone in in your life…”I love you!”  Try it!  It doesn’t have to be hard.  ;-)  Jack  FROM JOE ANN:    Jack today your WW touched my soul. Thank you.===JACK:  God works in mysterious ways, His wonders to perform. FROM MY LAWYER:  Jack, you’ve been my friend for 50 years; and I love you. ===JACK:  Over 50 years....We share so many fond memories.  You have helped me to understand that G-d is bigger than any one particular religion. FROM SMILIN' TERI:  Thanks…going to use this in one of my trainings.  For I tell groups “Feelings Just Are; there are no good feelings or bad.”  We just have to process them. Your quote fits perfectly===JACK:  Many of this world's problems could be faced and solved if people would simply share feelings.  FROM BEE CEE:  Good quote by Johnny Depp. ===JACK:  I wasn't too pleased to read news reports about his personal life...but sometimes the news gets it mixed up.

Jack’s Winning Words 8/23/22
“Everybody’d be nice to you if they knew you were dying.”  (Bruce – Robert DeNiro – in Bang the Drum Slowly)  I never knew that this DiNiro film was about life and death and baseball until last week when CPA M referred to it in an e-mail.  Now, I can’t wait to see it.  I’m thinking…..When I know that someone’s days are numbered, do I treat them differently?  I guess that I do.  I make the phone call, just to say, “Hi!”  I try to say positive things.  I don’t talk about dying, unless the other one brings it up first.  I’m a pastor, and I’m conflicted.  Perhaps you are too.  In my heart of hearts I ask God to intervene and that His will might be done in this situation.  Life sometimes is difficult, isn’t it?  ;-)  Jack.  www.jackswinningwords.blogspot.com to see my blog

FROM SR RD:  YES, Jack, it surely is. .===JACK:  ...yes, but God is good and does not abandon us.

FROM CPA MD:  :   .  I often wondered why we pray for the sick and wounded such as part of church services. It seems that your belief in God and life ever after would comfort you in knowing that He is going to do the right thing. Perhaps we pray so there is no suffering or we pray to help ourselves through the loss of a loved one.===JACK:  I don't think that praying is so much asking for a miracle as it is communicating with "the source of all that is, and asking that "God's will" (which is ultimately good and perfect) be done of us and those we pray for.  "I place Mike (or whoever) in your hands, o Lord, because then the outcome will be for the best.

FROM FACEBOOK LIZ:  what on earth does this have to do with me?===JACK:  I believe that you've been a caregiver.  Have you ever offered a prayer on behalf of the person entrusted to your care?  Or, have you ever prayed?  even recited the "Our Father?"  In your mind, is prayer useful or useless?===L:  prayer helps the person who prays, if they believe in prayer. not sure it changes god's mind abt anything...===JACK:  I don't nbelieve that prayer is meant to change God's mind.  We prayr: "Thy will be done!===FL:  a fb friend in maryland is a born-again catholic. i am an episcopalian... we both question and believe. i always pray for you, btw===JACK:  Believe and question is a good way to approach religion.  You've told me several times that you are an Episcopalian.  Evidently that brand of religion is important to you.  What is it that appeals to you?    Many church changes have been begun by that church.  There have also been bumps in the road because of the changes.  The ELCA has always worked closely with the more moern Episcopals...in fact in our community an ELCA and Episcopal congregation share the same pastor and the same building.  Thje worship service is a hy-brid one.  It is called,  Spirit of Grace Church.===FL:  my german grandfather's dad was a sea captain. he dropped my 8 yo grandpa off at jesuit school in san francisco. my grandpa said the priests committed "unspeakable acts," and he ran away at 16 to join the merchant marines, never to return to his german family. he became an episcopalian by choice bc of the freedom of thought afforded its members. no one ever mentioned hell or any of that damnation stuff the rest of the organized religions scare you with... we encourage dissent and discourse. we think for ourselves.  ===JACK:  I find it interesting that if you ask the right questions, you are able to hear "the rest of the story" and understand each other better.  Thanks for sharing.  I had a German background on my mother's side, but her father never talked about how and why he came to America.  It was mysteruous.

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 Jack’s Winning Words  6/10/22

The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”  (Nelson
Mandela)  The Toastmaster’s Club was formed to help people overcome the fear of speaking in public.  That fear is often listed as #1 among people.  If not that, is there some other fear that you have?  I could never work at building skyscrapers.    There are countless phobias, all the way from acrophobia (fear of heights) to zoophobia (fear of animals).  Whatever our fears, we can be comforted by the words of Jesus, “Fear not; I am with you always.”  When you find yourself in “one of those situations,” be brave and remember the saying…Wherever I am, God is!”     

FROM LS IN WB:  Good morning.  This quote is one I live. I am a toastmaster.  I became a toastmaster to conquer my fear of standing in front of others and sharing. Lessons learned and close friends made in Northwood Toastmasters are forever lessons I use each day.    Prayers and thought of you for an abundance.  I continue to read and look forward to your Winning Words. ===JACK:  My fear is not so much -standing in front of a group and speaking - It is the fear of failing to say something that is meaningful to the group.  It's a burden to bear...but it tends to keep me focused as I prepare for what I intend to say.  

FROM SHALOM JAN:  God does not drive my car across the Mackinac Bridge, but the Mackinac Bridge Authority provides drivers who do this service.  The cables going by in my peripheral vision give me vertigo; God has provided safety for me in the MBA service!===JACK:  I've heard of that bridge experience, but I didn't know that it was vertigo.  I watched Hitchcock's "The Birds" recently, but I'm not up to watching his "Vertigo."===LS:  If you touch one person, you have made a difference that will be paid forward. You are not responsible for touching a group - the good lord has that - those for whom your winning words are suppose to touch will in fact be so touched.  Let go of perfection.  Your winning words are guided to those who are directed to receive. Perfection is in honoring your inner voice bringing you to share just what you need to share.===JACK:  Thanks, I needed to read that.  

 

Jack’s Winning Words  6/9/22 “I don’t know what more to say.  I mean, we’re all going to die in a world that is worse than when we entered it,”  (Daniel Berrigan)  Daniel was once a R.C. priests during the protests of the 60’s.  His quote captures the spirit of that time.  I wonder if the same attitude mirrors how  some people feel about the world today?  What do you think?  How can we of this generation leave  the world better than when it was given us?  What suggestions do you have?  A lady in the area where I live wants to do away with manicured lawns and, instead, to grow grass on the roofs of houses.  Some Scandinavians have been doing this since prehistoric times, with goats serving as lawnmowers.  ;-) Jack   FROM GOOD DEBT JON:  I do not agree with Mr. Berrigan. By every measure we have less poverty, less hunger, we are doing better than ever.   Medical advances recently saved my wife. Our cars and trucks are fifty times faster and safer. Building and construction technology vastly improved.    The one thing that has declined is critical thinking and objective gratitude for our wonderful lives.  Opportunity abounds yet people like to moan and whine.   The nihilist says there is no reason to live, he never considers perhaps he is worthless to himself and his fellow humans.   I'm glad Daniel didn't live in my neighborhood.  Shut off the TV and live.===JACK:  Fr Berrigan was living in the tumultuous 60's.  He did not have the benefit of seeing what positives might come with the future.  Is the same situation existing today?  when we do not have the foresight to see future benefits?  Perhaps a green world is in our future.  Perhaps world peace will come in our time.  Perhaps Americans will come together to celebrate what a great country is their's.  The optimists see the glass half full; the pessimists, half-empty.  FROM M&L IN WB:  Joan, in response to Jack’s WW question as to how we can make the world better..I (Mike) have been reading Wendell Berry. He offers a lot of suggestions about how we can get to communal living and greater respect for the earth. Good ideas about making the world a better place.  our world is better since we have you both as friends. ===JACK:  Do you remember the song, That's What Friends Are For?  Those lyrics make the pooint about friendship. FROM SHARIN' SHARON:  Another thought-provoking quote.  I still have hope but it is because I can see little signs of promise in the church.  Pastor Karole and the Pastor of Shepherd of the Lakes are going to do a zoom Bible study on the ELCA’s social statements, the first one being the Church in society.  Read the social statement and it says the Church needs to take a stand of maintaining a critical distance from society so it can be a prophetic voice when it needs to.  I welcome this study because I don’t believe we lay people, as far as I can determine anyway, actually have thought very deeply on what it means to maintain a critical distance from society.  Plenty of Christians think in terms of moral issues but we have problems with thinking about and deliberating on institutional issues.  I think, if we’re going to leave the world in a better place when we die, the Church has to assume more responsibility in our society, this is my perspective anyway and Pastors willing to engage congregations on these matters is a very proactive step.  Probably I would have enjoyed having a friendship with Daniel Berrigan, even if he was kind of pessimistic, he might have cared about the same justice issues I do.  Just guessing though. him being a R.C. Priest and maybe very concerned about poverty.===JACK:  I agree with need for a prophet to society....but sometimes the Church needs to have a prophet to speak to the Church.  The Church doesn't always have all of the answers.  A does of humility is good for each of us. FROM ME IN NEWPORT BEACH:  As I think you have heard me say, I feel there is less fun in the world today and more stress. So my words are to have more fun so long as it is not at anyone else’s expense.  Time flies when u r having fun.  Stress is largely self induced and very overrated.  ===JACK:  As you go through life, let this be your goal....Keep your eye on the donut and not the hole. FROM ST PAUL IN ST PAUL:  another quote from the Berrigan brothers in the 1960s was this one:  if you are really serious about following Jesus,  you better look good on wood!  FROM COPPER COUNTRY BOB:   My kids say, "We were born in the right place at the righttime.  We had freedom and a community that disciplined us."    Both they and myself  feel the truth of his quote.===JACK:  Many things are good or ba  Positive thinkers have more fun than do negative ones.d, depending on the way you look at them.

 

Jack’s Winning Words  6/8//22 “Without the light, no chance; without the dark, no dance.”  (William Blake or Margaret Atwood)  One of my high school classmates was called, Mr Smooth, because of how gracefully he could dance.    One of my regrets is that I never learned to dance.  But, so what?   I did manage to read the Dale Carnegie book, How To Win Friends And Influence People. Today is Best Friends Day.  Best Friend, or simply a Friend…friends are a real blessing in time of need…and just for fun, too.  I know of someone who had Warren Buffett as his best childhood friend, and that friendship continues.  What do you see as the qualities of friendship?  ;-)  Jack FROM COPPER COUNTRY BOB:  Greetings friend!    And thanks for being light on my journey.===JACK:  On our way, rejoicing, gladly as we go.  I like that song. FROM FACEBOOK LIZ:  i never dance in public.===JACK:  ...so. you never went to a prom?  Neither did I.===LIZ:   first of all, i do not believe in proms, homecoming dances or similar school-sponsored matchmaking services. this is not the middle ages.===JACK:  Whether you believe in proms, or not, they exist in many place...and are BIG business.  Just an observation....The Villa (and places like that) were thought of by outsiders as places for the "snooty-ones" or places where parents could send their children to be protected from the "riff-raff."  I'm just reporting and observation with no evidence.  secondly, i went to private school... st katharine's, graduated from the villa... no prom or homecoming, tho we had a winter whirl dance. i went to fancy dinner/drank, as it was 18, then... but i do not dance in public. it's a weird ritual, isn't it? FROM SK IN SJ:  I think the meaning of Friends who stick by you, have a lot of same values, like to be together. I appreciate your’s and Joan’s Friendship.😊❤===JACK:  You certainly provide a warm welcome when the door to your home opens.  The food is good, too,  I can imagine that in days gone by you "cut a mean rug." F️ROM WILLMAR REV:  "Never doubting it?!?!" 0;-)===JACK:  i'M SUSPICIOUS OF THE ONE WHO HAS ALL OF THE ANSWERS.  WE ARE SEEKERS AFTER TRUTH.===REV:   "I'd sure give you the benefit of any doubt?! 0;-)===JACK:  I'm comfortable with what I believe, but I'm ready to admit that I don't have of the answers to all of the questions.  FROM KQ:  My dad (Byron Swanson) and Warren were buddies to the end!  Warren came to visit him on his last birthday - April 22, 2017!  He brought Dad an autographed Tom Osborne football!  Pretty special friendship! ===JACK:  It was special for your dad to have Warren as a friend.  It was special for me to have your dad as my friend.  Someday I should tell you how that friendship was almost "botched" by me. ]