It's Friday. I think a lot of folks are happy about that. To me, it's only the day we have before us.

Today marks the end of a busy last several days. Or, at least I've convinced myself of that. It is Friday, June 28, 2019, and I do bid each one a hearty welcome to today's session. I get this question a lot. This past Wednesday evening at the services of our local fellowship, a fellow came up to me and said something like this, "What are you doing with all the time you now have on your hands?" Without thinking, I knee-jerked this response, "Oh, I stay plenty busy." I then caught myself and corrected that statement, "Busy, but a different kind of busy, not like when I was going to my regular job every day." And, most of you know a lot of my busy these days has to do with trying to raise up a little one. That can be a real challenge. Especially, if the little one is a seven-month-old Shi Tzu puppy named Sir Bentley Barksalot, Esq. I made the mistake of letting him out of my truck the other day without his leash. We had been for a ride. He typically goes with me into the house. This time he decided to bolt. He took off. He would not come to me. He was like a little Tasmanian Devil, darting here and there. It took me about 5 minutes to catch up with him. He got a good spanking, but, I didn't get the idea it bothered him much. Those kinds of run downs cause me to use muscles that no longer have any muscle memory. They forgot a long time ago what it means to be stretched. He will have the leash on, even riding in the truck.

My Sunday morning Bible study, from the mid-2000s.

As many of you know, I have been a Bible teacher for nearly 50 years. Here's something I wrote a number of years ago about the calling to be a teacher of God's Word: "One of the things I am most thankful for is how that God enabled me to be a teacher of His Holy Word. In particular, I know I am privileged to have a calling and to be the recipient of His supplied gift to use in teaching others the Word of God. Yes. I have attended seminary classes. A three-year program. Multiple times. That gave me foundational information but it is not the same as being equipped by God to fulfill the calling He has given. I came to recognize that any effectiveness on my part is due to His working through my teaching, not my ability. He, after all, got the Prophet's attention by speaking to him through a donkey. (Book of Numbers, Chapter 22) Yes. Study is important. Being prepared is always a part of sharing His Word. I've mentioned this many times but I want to say it again. A huge light came on and my approach to this calling changed when He brought to me the insight that my teaching was not to fulfill me personally. I'm not saying it isn't fulfilling work, but, I came to realize the real purpose was to build up others, (edification), through the sharing of God's Word. That may seem like a trivial distinction, but, for me, it totally revolutionized my response to this calling. It did that for me and I believe God has received honor and others have been helped as a result. There's much more to all of this but I think you get the idea. I do have my fair share of regrets in my three score and ten plus years of my sojourn here on the planet. At the same time, I feel blessed beyond measure in the life He has given to me. Room for improvement? I won't even go there and please hold your recommendations on that one for another day."

I deposited the check into my account for the funds from the sale of the house and property in Louisiana. They put a 7 business day hold on the deposit. My niece sent me a copy of the check, showing the funds had been released from the bank there. I talked to a lady at Chase. She was either an American from India or a person in India taking service calls for Chase Bank. Our dialogue was interesting. She called the bank in Louisiana and they told her they did not give out that type of information on the phone. I told her I had a copy of the processed check. She said it didn't matter because she could not remove the hold until or unless she had confirmation. I asked her where the money was. She said it was being processed if they had released the funds. I said I have a copy of the check. She said she had no way of receiving that copy. I asked if she thought the money had gone into a black hole. She said she didn't think so. I asked if it had to do with collecting interest on the deposited funds. She said they didn't do that. She said, at this point, even if the funds get posted to my account, the 7-day hold would stand because it is an 'automatic hold'. It's not as if I need to distribute it today. It's just annoying when I have been with the same bank since we moved out to this area in 1976. That included two predecessor banks before Chase bought out the last one. I probably could make some more loud noises and perhaps get something done, but, I will do my best to wait patiently. I need some work in that area anyway. Take care, now, you hear? Have a great Saturday, and Lord's Day Sunday. We will see what pops up on the screen for Monday, Lord willing. Amen. ....More later.

Things change. Memories stay.

Welcome. It's Thursday, June 27, 2019. As I was trucking my way over to my old stomping grounds, (some call it stamping), I thought about how many miles I traveled the last 8 months before mom, first, and then, dad, went to their reward. Back when I was a teenager after I got my drivers license, mom used to say that all I liked to do was burn the roads up. After all, you had to pay $1 for 3 gallons of gasoline. On the way over this trip, I stopped at the fast food joint we usually stop at in Cleveland, Texas. I always picked up a local area newspaper for dad. He was a voracious reader. Cover to cover, as they say. But, alas, they no longer sell that paper at that location. Maybe it went the way of many other newspapers in the interconnected times we are living in. I was going to buy one for old times sake. I mentioned to my eldest and he said maybe this is part of the new owners in Chicago in how they are going to run these food joints. I wouldn't think so, but, them buying out Whataburger did light up social media. I never saw so many upset people. One fellow, with perhaps a reference to the Chicago reputation, put up something that said if they mess with the burgers he likes,  he will come to Chicago and kill them. Really? No newspaper. After I finished all the legal stuff and headed out to the national cemetery, I passed by a ballpark where I and another fellow had shown up since we were selected to the area-wide Dixie League all-star team. The park today is pretty run down and it looks so tiny. I remember thinking about how big it was when we were there as 14-year-olds. The fellows we played with from Leesville were from the larger town. They looked at us Hornbeck boys as hicks come in from the farm. Funny enough, they got the same treatment from the Alexandria boys when we went there for the actual game. My fellow player passed away a few years ago. Things change. Memories stay.

Based on what I am hearing from the Democrat candidates seeking the nomination to run against President Trump, well, they may need to come up with a new slogan that talks about how quickly they will bankrupt the country. Under their leadership, everything will be free. That's quite a promise for a country already dealing with a burgeoning $23 trillion dollar debt. Free. From the cradle to the grave. Free college and all previous debt forgiven. Free health care for everyone. Reparations for the descendants of slaves. Free right to kill a baby up to the day they come forth from the womb. That's an interesting one since they currently are tied in knots over the plight of the children here illegally. Kill a baby, no problem. Kill a protected animal species and they will throw the book at you. And, it goes on and on and on. Wait a minute. It will not be free for anyone who through hard work becomes successful. Don't worry, we are only going to hit the huge corporations and fat cats. Yep. That's a good one. I wonder who will actually pay? The corporations or the people who buy their products? At least they are not hiding their desire and determination to make our country a government run society. They call it democratic socialism as if naming it that changes the final outcome. That would be the loss of the freedoms upon which we were founded. I've explained in detail many times how the candidacy of Hillary Clinton sealed my vote for her opponent. There are 25 confirmed candidates running to represent the Democrat Ticket, and, my assessment at this time says simply: As it relates to casting a vote, there are 25 Hillary Clintons running. Just me. Not you. Me.

Some have said over the years that I am opinionated. Where do I sign something to plead guilty in the first, second, and third degrees? Part of having a blog is to be able to share views. The previous paragraph is an example of that. You may see it differently. Obviously, many do. That's one of the freedoms that could eventually go by the wayside when the government dictates everyday life. I speak as one who is not above the law. I have recent proof. On my way back from Louisiana I drove my usual route. I drove my usual speeds. They range from 55 mph to 75 mph. However, Jasper County has recently passed a new ordinance and reduced the speed limits to a maximum of 65 mph throughout the county. I didn't know that. I didn't pay any attention to the new signs. I was stopped by a Department of Public Safety officer. Officer Bennet was very businesslike and courteous. He immediately told me he was not going to write me a ticket because not even the locals have gotten used to the new lower limits. That was good to know. And, even though we see it every week on 'Live PD', it still stung a little when he asked me what business I had on the road that day, and where I was coming from. It sounds a lot less intrusive when they ask it on 'Live PD'. I told him I had been over to Hornbeck, Louisiana to take care of selling my parents' homeplace. We chatted forth and back about that. I gave him a Santa Claus card for a souvenir. That brought on another few minutes of chatter. At any rate, I did receive a warning. When I mentioned to the wife I felt good that at 72, I was thought to be a speedster. When you think about it, that's a really archaic word but then again, if the shoe fits, I suppose I must wear it. Take care. Enjoy. May God bless. Amen. ....More later.

Sometimes, it just can't be communicated in 25 words or less.

Hello and welcome back. I meant that for myself since I did make the nearly 400-mile roundtrip to Louisiana yesterday. It's Wednesday, June 26, 2019, and I'm glad to report from my trip: Mission Accomplished! The house and property now belong to Stacy, our niece, that is, her and the folks who financed the purchase for her. It was a very emotional day. Lots of memories flooded my soul. I got into the area early, intentionally. I did what I often do. I visited the cemetery where the earthly remains of many of our loved ones are interred. That, typically, will open the tear ducts. Our family has lived in the cubicle marked 'why?' for as long as I can remember. Dr. David Jeremiah has said that questioning why? is not a lack of faith but a way of getting close to the only One who knows the answer. We often say we will not know the answers until we get to heaven. I'm not so sure we will know them then, however, I firmly believe with all of my heart they will no longer matter at that time. Amen.

I first visited Granny and Paw Paw Mac's graves. They are buried in the plot along with Aunt Jean, a daughter born with many problems who was an invalid for most of her life due to an inoperable brain tumor. Also in that area is their infant daughter, Seawillow Beal, who contracted one of the deadly childhood illnesses, either diphtheria or scarlet fever. These folks were hugely influential in my life. I'll never forget Granny telling about Paw Paw when Seawillow died. He built the coffin for his little baby girl. She said she could see him out the kitchen window and he would saw and hammer for a while and then stop and wipe the tears rolling down his face.

I then stopped to remember Aunt Mary and Uncle Claude. Aunt Mary was Granny Mac's sister. They were connected at the hip. These were two ladies who knew what it meant to comport themselves in a Christian and modest manner. Uncle Claude was a mechanic. In the summertime, he used to take one of us boys with him when he would go fishing. I'm sure we were mostly added baggage for him, but, we didn't even know it, and oh how we looked forward to these outings.

It gets personal when I get to our immediate family plots. Donald, our younger brother, next to dad on one side.

Then the eldest in our family, Jimmy Don, on dad's other side. Jimmy had tried his best to be the dad figure at 12 when our dad suddenly passed away and I will always believe that was too much of a burden for him to carry. Dad would have been proud of Donald, a retired US Marine, and he would have been proud of Jimmy for doing his best to help hold our family together.

This is our baby sister's headstone, Kayla. Talk about being proud. To think that her daughter would grow up, work hard, and as of today, become the owner of our family home-place. She would be beaming, or, better yet, she just might be beaming up in glory land.

Next, I paused to pay tribute to one of the finest men to ever breathe air on the planet. My brother-in-law Kenneth. Beside him is where my sister Fran will be laid to rest. Next to them is Andy, their only son. Andy accidentally shot and killed his dad in a hunting mishap. Andy was 12 and he never got over what had happened.

I then left and drove into the little town of Hornbeck, Louisiana. So much still familiar, like it was only yesterday when I roamed here and there. I drove by the house we moved into in 1957. Our family, like most, had our issues, but, we also were blessed to know what it meant to have a home. Some amazing things flashed through my mind as I appreciated the significance of that place and the people who had dwelt there. God blessed us there and my prayer is that he will continue to bless our niece as she continues the legacy.

After concluding the paperwork at the lawyer's office, I drove out to the National Cemetery at Fort Polk, just outside of Leesville, Louisiana. I wanted to visit and pay tribute to mom and dad, for their lives, their work, their influence, and their making possible this transfer of a home and property. I know none of these folks are actually in the grave, just their bones, however, memorials have a purpose. That's why Joshua told the children of Israel to put those rocks up as a remembrance of what God had done for them. They were there also to answer questions when the children would ask their meaning. (Read about it in Joshua, Chapter 4) Like I say, an emotional day, a tiring day, but, one where I very much believe I had honored the wishes of mom and dad. This transaction pretty much concludes the handling of their estate, but, I will forever remember all those mentioned above and so many others who helped me become who I am today. Amen. ....More later.

Mom and Dad would be proud and that's important to me.

Our going back home place in Hornbeck, La., for over 60 years.

Hello and welcome, it's Tuesday, June 25, 2019. Let me tidy up a few things since by the time many of you will be reading this, I will be well on my way to Leesville, Louisiana. I am doing a one-day turnaround trip to sign off on the paperwork involved in selling mom's and dad's house and property to our niece, Stacy, who is the eldest daughter of three girls born to our baby sister Kayla. Getting to this point, working with the lawyer there, and getting all of the heirs correctly lined up, well, it is not for the fainthearted, but, most of these types of transactions play out this way. That's right. Even those who think they have it all laid out without any glitches, well, most of them, based on what I've heard from others, end up having many twists and turns. I've not heard any opera lady singing yet, therefore, it will not be over until it's over. When it is finalized, it will meet the desire of many within our family group to keep the place within the family. It was our home from 1957 and all of us will always treasure the memories we made there. The other news has to do with my medical testing reports. Thus far, everything appears to be in the okay category. I could do better in this area or that, but, the big items appear to be within the appropriate range. I say, thank the Lord for that. All that is pending is the lung function test results. That will be available later this week.

Life is about transitions. And, none of us ever know exactly what each day might bring. This past Sunday evening while we were nearing the end of our Sunday evening service, I began receiving some emergency texts from the wife's sister regarding her grandson, Bradley. Bradley, our nephew, is a unique and talented person and one who is sold out to serving His Lord and Savior. He will be graduating from college later this year. During the summers, he and his band, do Christian youth camps across America. He has been involved in this camp ministry effort for many years. He had come to Houston over at Houston Baptist University to help conduct a camp this coming week. The reason for the texts had to do with him becoming very ill and not having anyone to help him. The rest of his team had taken the weekend off before the start of the new camp, therefore, the wife and I left Church and headed to Bellaire to find Bradley and get him to the E/R. We were keeping his grandma and his parents updated every step of the way. The bottom line, he was dehydrated, hurting, and unable to keep anything on his stomach. We spent from around 10 p.m. to 4:30 a.m. at the emergency room where they finally got fluids in him, injected him with pain and nausea medicine. I had gotten up at 5:30 a.m. Sunday morning and I can assure you I have not been doing all-nighters lately. But great news! He was released and is most likely again working with kids to help them in their walk with The Savior. One last observation, spending all night at the E/R will humble anyone. Especially, seeing such little bitty babies dealing with sudden illnesses, along with the other stuff. Lots of other stuff. I will likely write about some of those later.

Another individual of distinction passed away last week. He was 79 years young and his name is Dale Kelly. Early on in our marriage, I hit a brief period of being in-between jobs and I signed on with Dale to be his helper on doing the brickwork on a large residence. I worked with him for two weeks. As a highly motivated, individual contractor, he was a master bricklayer and he could sling mortar and lay bricks almost in blurred motion. It was my job to keep the bricks coming and to mix the mortar. Back-breaking. No matter how fast I ran, he was always waiting on me. Two weeks. At the end of that project, I made the decision that perhaps administrative and office work was better suited to my inclinations and abilities. I actually had personally thanked him for that very thing when he came to my mom's viewing. He didn't even remember us working together. That's okay, because I do, and I made sure he knew how much I appreciated him for helping to direct my career choices. He laughed. I did too but that doesn't mean I have forgotten the aches and pains from that little adventure. I've told that story before but it does seem to surface from time to time. Enjoy the rest of the day and may God bless each one. Amen. .....More later.

"Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth." ~ George Washington

Back again. Thanks for tuning in for today's episode, this one is identified as Monday, June 24, 2019. We visited Scotland back in the mid-1990s. Today is one of the most revered days in their history. On this date in 1314, a Scot named Robert the Bruce routed the English and sent them home. I mention this because when we were there the Scots spoke about this battle like it happened recently. They remember all the details, the players involved, and how it was one of the only major victories over their arch enemy, England. We, as Americans, revere our history as well, but, they see our history as a drop in the bucket since we are only 200 plus years in the making. For many years, the national anthem of Scotland was entitled Scotland the Brave, however, in 1965 a song came along that has become the people's choice as their national anthem. The title is 'Flower of Scotland', and, it is all about celebrating this monumental victory from 1314. It is typically played at most sporting events and other official functions. I actually have listened to it many times because it is so special to those we interacted with while we were there. As a way of recognizing this important day for them, I share the lyrics and recommend anyone to YouTube it and see what you think. (Interesting tidbits: There is one note in the song that cannot be played on the bagpipe so they have to work around that. For you purists, it is a flattened seventh. ~ Braveheart is a 1995 film directed by Mel Gibson and featuring Angus Macfadyen as Robert the Bruce. Some sources state that Braveheart's version of the character is historically inaccurate. In particular, while the film's name refers to protagonist William Wallace, the nickname "Braveheart" has been posthumously attributed to the Bruce, whose heart was brought to a Crusade in Spain by Sir James Douglas and thrown into a battle against the Moors. Bruce's heart was then returned to Scotland and interred at Melrose Abbey.)

Flower of Scotland, written by Roy Williamson

O Flower of Scotland,
When will we see
Your like again,
That fought and died for,
Your wee bit Hill and Glen,
And stood against him,
Proud Edward's Army,
And sent him homeward,
To think again.

The Hills are bare now,
And Autumn leaves
lie thick and still,
O'er land that is lost now,
Which those so dearly held,
That stood against him,
Proud Edward's Army,
And sent him homeward,
To think again.

Those days are past now,
And in the past
they must remain,
But we can still rise now,
And be the nation again,
That stood against him,
Proud Edward's Army,
And sent him homeward,
To think again.

The Hills is bare nou,
An Autumn leafs,
Lies thick an still,
Ower land that is tint nou,
That thae sae darlie held,
That stuid agin him,
Prood Edward's Airmie,
An sent him hamewart,
Tae think again.

O Flower of Scotland,
When will we see
your like again,
That fought and died for,
Your wee bit Hill and Glen,
And stood against him,
Proud Edward's Army,
And sent him homeward,
To think again.

Issac Potts' house was General George Washington's headquarters in the winter of 1777 at Valley Forge, PA.

I know many of my readers could not give a flip about something like the battle that took place so many years ago. That's okay. We were intrigued by the folks we met and their devotion to the memory of those who made them the proud people they are. The Scots, in general, remain fiercely independent today, even though, they remain a part of Great Britain. Their desire to be their own independent country again reminds me of our history. I was very moved when I visited the museum and grounds at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. To stand upstairs in the very set of rooms where General George Washington was housed, well, that caused a surge of pride and respect to flow through me. That place reeked with a sense of the sacrifices made in that cruel winter of 1777-1778. Similarly, one cannot visit the Alamo, which we have done many times, without an appreciation for what happened there. We know there were flawed people involved in these legendary events, however, they yielded themselves to a cause greater than themselves. This sense of seeking freedom is encapsulated in the famous quote, "I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death." ~ Patrick Henry

The Bible, God's inspired, breathed out, Word, has much to say about freedom and bondage. Because of the fall of humanity through the sin of Adam, our inherent sin nature makes us in bondage to sin. God's plan provided a way to deal with this bondage through the sacrifice of our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Here are some verses ranked by the entries from folks who said they portrayed the freedom we have in Christ. These quotations are from the English Standard Version (ESV):
~ Galatians 5:1 For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.; 2 Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.; John 8:36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.; John 8:32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.; Galatians 5:13 For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.; Galatians 5:1-26 For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace. For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. ...; Romans 8:1-4 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. ~ These do give an overview of what God's plan is for setting His created human family, and, all of creation free. They are worth our consideration. Amen. ....More later.

“I have noticed that the people who are late are often so much jollier than the people who have to wait for them.” ― E. V. Lucas

It's Friday, June 21, 2019. Welcome one and all. Let the waiting begin. That is, waiting on a number of tests from my doctor. As a young person, I smoked for several years. There is always the potential for that to rear its ugly head even though it was well over 50 years ago. That, coupled to the fact that I did have a couple of bouts with pneumonia as a kid, well, they want to make sure I am still functioning at whatever speed I am supposed to function at my age. Therefore, in addition to all the blood and urine tests, I had an EKG, a chest x-ray, and a lung function test. Hopefully, it will all be okay. That's how I expect it to be, and, as history informs me, if there were to be something, we will deal with that too. I was reminded of what happened when mom, at 92, broke her hip. We determined that surgery was her best option, but, at her age, she had to be checked by a number of different specialties including a cardiologist. Mom also smoked for a number of years, but, it had been well over 50 years since she quit. The cardiologist approved her for surgery and said her heart was functioning well, but, he could see the residual damage from when she had smoked. We all were shocked, but, it tells us all that's one habit we need to stay away from and help those we love to do the same. (The chest x-ray was clear. The EKG had no changes from the one made a few years ago. It will be a few more days on the blood work and about a week on the results from the lung function test.)

Here's my flashback blog from 12 years ago. I love this story, entitled: Odd or God? You Be The Judge.

~ My wife’s dad was one of the closest and dearest friends I’ve had in my life. He was a true encourager to me and always believed in me. I could not have dreamed of a better father-in-law. He pastored Churches for more than forty years and whenever we were together we would spend many hours sitting out under a shade tree or in the swing on the porch discussing all subjects relating to the Bible. He had his faults and could be as ornery as a Baptist preacher could be, but after all, that’s what he was, a Baptist preacher. But at the same time, he was the ‘real deal’, sold out for Jesus, and a man with a passion for souls. He passed away a number of years ago and I miss him so very much. Over the years he told me many stories about his many experiences as a servant of the Lord. He was not a man prone to conjure up all kinds of spiritual signs in every happening in life. But he did try his best to follow God’s direction each day that came his way. An illustration of this can be seen in a special event that happened to him.

One Sunday afternoon after Church services he began feeling a burden to go and visit a pastor friend some fifty miles away. He tried to shake it but he couldn’t. Finally, he decided he had to go. He made arrangements for the Sunday evening services to be covered and he drove over to his pastor friend’s Church. When he arrived his friend came out to meet him and my father-in-law told him he had no idea why he was there but was hoping that perhaps he could tell him. The friend said he didn’t know either but was extremely glad to see him and asked if he would preach for them that night. The people showed up and my father-in-law stood up and preached the message God had laid on his heart. At the end of the service, nothing unusual happened and after visiting for a short time with his pastor friend, he returned home. At that time he really didn’t have a clue as to why he had felt the need to go to his friend’s Church but he did sense that he had obeyed what he believed God had directed him to do.

A few months later he saw his pastor friend at a fellowship meeting and his friend said he had something very important to tell him. A couple of days after my father-in-law had preached at this Church the pastor received a phone call from a man who had attended services that night. He asked if he could meet with the pastor to discuss something that had happened that night. He agreed and the man came over to his home and they sat on the front porch. He went on to say that the man began to weep and told the pastor that on the night in question he had come to the Church property with a pistol in his belt fully intending to kill another man in the Church over some disputed property. After hearing my father-in-law’s sermon he could not bring himself to go through with the killing. He said he then understood that his family, as well as the other man’s family, had been rescued from a tragedy that night. In fact, he and the other man had since reached an agreement and made things right between themselves.

This was all a surprise to my father-in-law because he had not thought any more about it for a long time. Some might think this was coincidental or maybe that someone’s imagination got the best of them. I can assure you my wife’s dad was a man of honesty and integrity and I am fully persuaded that God Himself took action that night in sending my father-in-law to be used to intervene between these men. Long ago the poet wrote: "God works in mysterious ways his will to perform".  ~

I tried to condense it, but, I wanted to share this remarkable account of how God works in the hearts of men, women, boys, and girls to accomplish His purposes. I do hope everyone enjoys the upcoming Saturday and that Sunday, Lord's Day Sunday, will find us all in the local place of worship where we can hear and respond to our Great God. I do hope to be in my place, Lord willing, come next Monday. Until then, may God add His blessings. Amen. ....More later.

Happy 33rd Wedding Anniversary to our Chris and Sherrie!

Things are back to normal, or, at least with The Wife home, back to our normal. It is Thursday, June 20, 2019, and, I pause to recognize and congratulate our eldest Chris and his wife Sherrie on their 33rd wedding anniversary. That, my friend, is a good long run, and, we give thanks and praise to God for this couple, their three girls, Tiff, Britt, and Stef, and their seven grandchildren. God has been good. Happy Anniversary and may He continue to bless. Amen. ...Our love, mom, and dad.

When many of you read this, I will be at the doctor for my annual physical. No Community Coffee until after my tests are run. No food. Just water. This is why I always do my best to get an early morning appointment. There are two ways to look at it. One, I get finished and can get on with my regular business, typically, by 9 a.m. The other way is to consider I am the first patient. This can mean that some of the medical folks are still waking up, but, I've always felt like getting in and getting out is best for me. I have been working on my mental checklist of things I need to discuss with the doctor. I try to weigh a real problem versus an irritant that comes with the territory, the age-related stuff. That is not always so easy because they tend to always be moving the needle on when a person reaches old age. In a survey, here's what people at different ages thought about when a person is officially in the old age bracket: It's no surprise that the older people get, the longer they think it takes for a person to reach old age: "On average, adults between the ages of 30 and 49 think old age begins at 69. People who are currently 50-64 believe old age starts at 72. Responders who are 65 and older say old age begins at 74." The Wikipedia article on the subject yielded these comments: "Some gerontologists have recognized the diversity of old age by defining sub-groups. One study distinguishes the young old (60 to 69), the middle old (70 to 79), and the very old (80+). Another study's sub-grouping is young-old (65 to 74), middle-old (75–84), and oldest-old (85+). A third sub-grouping is "young old" (65–74), "old" (74–84), and "old-old" (85+). Describing sub-groups in the 65+ population enables a more accurate portrayal of significant life changes." Taking all of this into consideration, I would either be young-old or medium-old, but, knowing this doesn't make my achy breaky bones feel any better.

I read several articles on this subject and for those of you who are still trying to figure out whether you are 'old' or not, I selected these 7 ways that can help you to decide:

1. You make audible grunts, groans, or sighs whenever you sit down, stand up, or reach for anything.

2. Your S-M-T-W-T-F-S pillbox has AM and PM (even midday) compartments.

3. You have something on your body that hurts or “is giving you trouble” at any given moment. Could be a bad knee or a rotator cuff, a back molar or just a crick in your neck. Doesn’t matter, you’re a 24/7 menu of aches and pains.

4. Your hair is vanishing from your head only to reappear, coming out your ears.

5. You make your kids help you with tech devices. Could be the Wi-Fi. Could be the remote. You just don’t want to learn a new thing. You liked the old thing the way it was when you re-learned it the last time after the even older thing. You don’t feel like dealing with it, so you call your own, personal IT Guy.

6. You fairly consistently ask “have I ever told you this story?” and even if they say they have you retell the story anyway...

7. Your graduation year from high school is now an official Wacky Dress-Up Day in grade schools.

Many of my younger readers will not necessarily identify with this subject, however, many of us do, and whether the younger ones like it or not, if the Lord allows us to live on, it is a coming attraction. Have a great rest of the day and I always encourage us to be thankful to God for all He has done, is doing, and will do for each of us going forward. Amen. ....More later.

If you are bored, you are in good company. A Minister of Parliament once asked Winston Churchill, "Must you fall asleep when I am speaking?" To which Churchill replied, "No, it's purely voluntary."

Good morning. Today is Wednesday, June 19, 2019, and I am anticipating the return of The Wife sometime this evening. Last Saturday afternoon we were sitting together in our family room, minding our own business, watching some Live PD reruns when a sudden thunderstorm hit. It wasn't a huge thunderstorm but without warning, we heard a sound we've become way too accustomed to hearing, a loud explosion-like noise taking out a transformer on our street. I immediately used my cell phone to pull up the interactive screen displaying a map of outages being reported at that time. There it was. Just us. No one else in our area. The same 73 customers who lose power. The same street. Not the one on either side of us. Just our street. This does cause a body to wonder. Do we get all the leftover transformers? Is our technology from a bygone era? It became very still inside the house. I and Mr. Bentley went out on the front porch. The weather system was gone. It went from a brief downpour to hotter than a pepper sprout. No air to breathe outside so we came back in. The Wife has a D-Cell battery operated fan. I snagged that and it blew some air around. I typically have made fun of that fan in the past. It holds about 8 batteries. You have to take out a loan to replenish it. But, last Saturday, I was being very thankful for her battery operated fan. It allowed me to breathe during the 2-hour outage. I was trying to figure out which song best applies, 'Nobody seen the trouble I've seen' or 'Why me Lord?' The loud crack when it took out the power made us wonder if we had damaged our TV or the AC system. We were concerned, but, thankfully, they came back up and we carried on. That's what you do. Carry on.

The other evening two of our granddaughters were sitting with us. I put it on America's Got Talent program because I knew reruns of Matlock or Perry Mason would not be anything they would be interested in. This lady came out and said she was going to sing. She was in her late 40s. She was going to reflect two legendary singers, a father and daughter duo. She went backstage to change and when she returned she had an outfit that was half man and half woman. She then began to sing. She had a huge range because she could imitate both the man singing and his famous daughter. Our twins who will soon be 21 enjoyed her singing. I then asked them if they had any idea who it was she was imitating. Not a clue. They said she was good at it, but, they had no idea whose voices she was representing. It was none other than Nat King Cole and his daughter, Natalie. Knowing the great singing of both of these wonderful crooners made it even more special to the wife and me, but, talent is talent, and the granddaughters enjoyed it too, but without any reference connection. Both of these great singers have died, but, their music is still with us, and, it also continues through folks like this lady who did a great job of imitating the both of them.

Those kinds of things give old folks approval to say things like "Kids today." Or maybe, "Honest to Pete"; "My word."; "Land sakes."; "My stars."; "Bless your heart."; "Whippersnappers."; "More than Carter has liver pills."; "Heavens to Betsy."; "Back in my day."; "Yellow-bellied sapsucker."; "The cat's meow.": and, I could go on and on. Yep. When I use those anachronisms with anyone under 40 around, well, they look like they have just finished a course on how to perfect the blank stare. I am very certain they could use some slang that would have us older folks scratching our heads for days. I actually have found myself looking up stuff because of the vocabulary or lack thereof being used today.  It goes beyond the fact they don't even know what cursive writing is, it is an entirely different language. Oh well, they do know when you are trying to help them. It's not always received that well, but, I'm sure they tell each other that at least he had good intentions. Y'all have a good day out there and don't be dragging around like you've lost your best friend, that is unless you have. If so, you can drag around all you want to. May God bless us all including kids who have never heard of Nat King or Natalie. Amen. ....More later.

“The past beats inside me like a second heart.” ― John Banville

My mom and my dad, summer of 1953, before he died the following January.

I'm feeling slightly relieved this morning. The wife read yesterday's offering and thought it was good except for the slight issue with ownership of our Mr. Bentley. She said he is mine and I say he is hers. But, other than that, she got a kick out of the stuff I shared. It doesn't always go over that well, but, she had heard about all the rain and was feeling very blessed. I told her the grass should be knee high by the time she gets back late Wednesday. It is Tuesday, June 18, 2019, and we all continue the journey appointed to us by the Lord. I saw a lot of vintage photographs on Facebook as people reminisced about their dads and families. It was interesting to read the stories that accompanied the pictures. Some lost their dads in one of the wars. They were infants when they deployed, therefore, they've only known them through the memories of others. Some are still searching for their birth dads. Others speak of the great influence and blessing their dads have been in their lives. I am thankful for the kind words said to me by my three boys. I suppose as I speed towards my continued aging, those kinds of things mean much to me. I fear it has to do with the sentimental phase of life. I never thought I would end up being so easily touched. Who knows? Next thing might be a subscription to the Hallmark Movie Channel. Thankfully, not today, and, not soon, one would hope.

The wife did prepare me a Fathers Day feast before she skipped town. Pot roast, potatoes, carrots, rice, gravy, fried okra, peas, cornbread, sliced tomatoes, homemade pepper sauce, iced tea, and a carrot cake for dessert. Her 'big' dinners are always something special but occasionally she hits all the right notes. And, this past Sunday was one of those days. It was one of those meals where you forget you ever were a diabetic. It was legendary. So much so, I couldn't stop remembering Paw Paw Mac and my brother-in-law Kenneth, both in glory for many years, but, how many times they would eat a meal just like that and feel like they had just been blessed in such a special way. Paw Paw was not one to pass out compliments, period. However, when Granny put out a spread like the one I had on Sunday, well, he couldn't help himself. He had to acknowledge her hard work and the quality of the outcome. And, Kenneth, he used to tell me he didn't even know people ate the way we did until he married into our family. My wife outdid herself and it was appreciated. Melt in your mouth delicious. She had hoped to be over in Louisiana in time to attend Church with her sister. Therefore, they left right after lunch. Right after. Before the kitchen was cleaned up. I meekly asked, "I suppose you want me to do the dishes?" She simply said, "That would be nice." It took me most of the afternoon, off and on, but I did get it done. What a meal!

Okay. I will admit it again, I am a sucker for nostalgic experiences. My wife wasn't a great cook when we married. She had the basics down because back in those days they prepared girls to know their way around the kitchen. Remember, we were just kids when we married. She continued to learn from her mom, my mom, and our grandmothers. As they used to say back where I come from, "She learned real good." Even as a newlywed she could make biscuits from scratch and we ate them often. How many young brides can do that? I recently checked and it is obvious that I have strewn a good portion of the keystrokes in my blogs talking about good food and her cooking. Sorry. I come from a line of food people. Some eat to live and we were folks who lived to eat. I mention that again because there are so many throwback memories encapsulated in enjoying such a legendary meal. For those who always eat right and all of that stuff, well, I know you are most likely doing the right thing, but, I wouldn't trade my homecooked menu for anything. And, as always, I am unanimous in my conclusion. Have a great rest of the day and maybe all this bragging will get me a big homemade breakfast when she returns. I would give you the menu, but, I've made us all hungry enough by now. May God bless each one. Amen. ....More Later.

"Shape notes are a variant system of Western musical notation whereby the note heads are printed in distinct shapes to indicate their scale degree and solmization syllable (fa, sol, la, etc.)." Shape-note singing | music | Britannica.com ~ "Solmization:Solmization is a system of attributing a distinct syllable to each note in a musical scale. Various forms of solmization are in use and have been used throughout the world, but solfège is the most common convention in Europe and The Americas." Wikipedia ~Solfège definition is - the application of the sol-fa syllables to a musical scale or to a melody. ~ Dictionary

Young girl leading Gospel song, shape note style.

Yep. That will get your attention. I'm talking about that first sip of coffee left in the cup for a few hours. Cold. Dark. And, with a bite. But, we all know the old saying, 'Waste not, Want not'. After one swig of that, I am awake now and I do welcome you to Monday, June 17, 2019. Yesterday afternoon, the wife got up off of her achy breaky back problem to go over to Louisiana to help her sister Dorothy teach a singing school at a local fellowship of believers. (There's motivation and then there is M-O-T-I-V-A-T-I-O-N!) Those girls have been involved in signing schools for well over 50 plus years and they used to teach several each summer. This is a singing school where kids of all ages including the youngest to the oldest learn how to look at a song, choose their part, and then sing with a melody as unto the Lord. The notes are shaped which guides the singer in what tone to express. I wanted to be unhappy about her leaving, but, since I came face to face with her because of a singing school in 1962, that leaves me with little room to complain. Think about it. There might be a young man over there who has just gotten back from working for his uncle in Florida. He gets hooked into going out to that singing school in Evans, Louisiana, to at least have a look-see at the pretty girls, and while he is there lightning that no one else saw or felt, hits him, and the rest will be history, or from his point of view, his story. That's how it happened to me, therefore, I do have some credibility when I speak on the subject. (She did take her friend Betty with her in case she needed help with the driving.)

Front Porch Duty.

Some no doubt wonder why I am home alone. Again, again, and again. I am the self-appointed keep the home fires going person. Mr. Bentley has joined with me and the two of us will do our best to take care of things while his owner is away. He recently received his summer haircut. It may be hard to tell from the photo, but, his haircut, by comparison, reminded me of when I was a kid and we got our summer buzz cut. We stayed at the swimming hole much of the time, so, the close cut worked well. Mr. Bentley no longer looks as much like a Panda but now he looks more like a short-haired terrier. But, as his owner said, it will grow out. She didn't seem to think he was embarrassed or anything, so, I suppose it all went well. The lady at the grooming joint (clip joint, in more ways than one, no pun intended) asked me what I thought. I told her she did a good job of giving him a good skinning, but, that was what she had been asked to do. In writing, I might add. He and I enjoyed those mid to high 60s in the early morning hours last week. We sat out on the front porch. Me in my chair. Him in his chair. And, we kept an eye on things. I drank my Community Coffee and he gnawed on the wooden arms of the chair. It's not much of a routine, but, it is our routine.

For those who are suffering from the heat these days, I just checked, the first day of winter lands on December 21st, this year. That gives us something to look forward to. And for those who have one of those inquiring minds, Christmas is only 191 days from today. That might vary slightly plus or minus depending on where you happen to be located on the globe. Before Al Gore came on the scene we used to look forward to the first frost, in peace. Nowadays, if you even inquire as to when that might happen you get a lecture where you are told to quit flushing so much, turn off the central heat, and walk around in the dark. Of course, that was some time ago when I so looked forward to the cooler weather. That was back when snap-crackle-pop could have referred to our first fire in the fireplace or even the proverbial bowl of cereal. Today, the snap-crackle-pop is a noise I hear frequently after sitting too long in one spot. Those bones. They can be noisy. And, at times they do play a mournful tune. Over-exaggeration for emphasis, so please don't send me your ideas of a magical medical cure. Have a great rest of the day Monday and Lord willing I will see what we can come up with for tomorrow. May God bless each one. Amen. ....More later.

“I believe that what we become depends on what our fathers teach us at odd moments, when they aren't trying to teach us. We are formed by little scraps of wisdom.” ― Umberto Eco

Okay. I admit it. Friday doesn't really register with me like it did when I was putting in 11 plus hours per day, at least 5 days a week. Retirement does that to you. Even scarier, and, I really hate to admit this one, I occasionally have to look at the calendar on my phone to see exactly what day it is that I am working on. Talk about different! But, it is Friday, June 14, 2019, and this coming Sunday is Fathers Day. The photo reflects dads who made an impact and difference in my life. The first one on the left is my father, Cecil Al, Sr. I carry his name as a Junior. He had a relatively short life. He served in WWII and was making his way up the ladder at the Kansas City Southern Railroad, (KCS) when he had a sudden illness and died on January 2, 1954, at the age of 31. I was 7 years old when he left us for his home in heaven. The man in the middle is my mom's dad, Andrew Rancher McMillan, or Paw Paw Mac, as we called him. He inherited my mom and the six of us kids after dad passed away. We moved from Port Arthur, Texas to a tiny rural village, Hornbeck, Louisiana. In many ways, Paw Paw Mac was a plain-speaking, tough, and to the point kind of person. At the same time, he was a legendary man of faith who believed in serving others as a way to demonstrate his love for his Lord. He was born in 1900 and became absent from the body and present with the Lord in July of 1971. The third photo is of my step-dad, Jose Chavez, who married my mom in September of 1977. He was an amazing little man who was a giant to us in his devotion to our mom and in his tireless support for us all, a huge blended family. He and mom both made their transition to eternal life in the summer of 2017 within days of each other and within days of their 40th wedding anniversary. So BLESSED to have had these men and others who helped me along the way. I pause now to thank God for them all. Amen, Amen, and Amen!

Twelve years ago I was writing about this subject. You can read the entire blog, made up of seven paragraphs, by going to 2007, choosing June, and finding the one I wrote on the 19th. This is an excerpt and I think it is still very good advice: "Wonder how life would go for us if we went about our daily activities with a desire to recognize, encourage, and reward people instead of our usual approach which dares anyone to cross us? As the old saying goes, our attitude really does impact our altitude. Let me say clearly this is not a repackaging of the “positive thinking psychobabble”. It’s essentially seeing people for who they really are, “Those made in the image of God”. And, more or less living out the tried and true golden rule where we give out what we would really like to receive. If you really think about it you will conclude that you can either help or hurt, and it doesn't take much."

Another week of blogging has come and gone. Believe it or not, these daily episodes typically take one to two hours to put together. Some of that time is spent thinking about what to write about. A fair amount of time is consumed finding graphical representations that support the thoughts I'm sharing. Some days the thoughts come fairly easily and flow onto the electronic page. On other days, it's like the saying my grandfather used, it's like trying to pull them through a rat hole backwards. Don't ask me to explain that one. Some think me writing these daily tomes should help to keep my mind functioning. (I know the word tome typically reflects a long book, it can mean a volume forming part of a larger work.) That, my friend, presupposes my brain functions, to begin with. However, it is something I obviously derive some benefit from because I do continue to produce them. Hopefully, some little something buried in one of them has brought a smile, some needed encouragement, or pointed us all to the God who loves us. And, as it so often is the case, that reminds me of a lyric from a song we used to sing, "If I can help somebody as I travel along, ....No, my living shall not be in vain." Have a great Saturday and Lord's Day, Fathers Day Sunday. May God bless each one. Amen. ....More later.

"I used to be indecisive, but now I'm not sure." ~ copied

Yesterday is gone. A new day has arrived. I think it happened while most of us were fast asleep, beginning at the immediate transition past midnight. I started to say at one second past midnight but I know we have some purists in the audience. Therefore here is an overview of the smallest measurement regarding time from a clock: Milliseconds, microseconds and nanoseconds are examples of very small units of time. Planck time is the name given to the smallest known unit of time. It's a little confusing but it measures the amount of time it takes light to travel 1 Planck length (a distance so small that it can't even be measured!), taken from a science kids website. Yes. I am aware there are those who identify as night owls and perhaps they are awake and aware of the changing of the guard to a new day. As for our time together, we mark today's edition as being sent out on Thursday, June 13, 2019. I actually enjoy sending out greetings to folks on social media who are celebrating important events in their lives. I'm not much into the ones that count 3, 6, and even 9-month increments to celebrate on their way to the official one year occasion. Or, the 'soon to be' celebrating postings. They will be celebrating the occasion when they get there, but, do we really need to celebrate the stepping stones on the way to getting there? If that's what people want to do then more power to them. If everybody on social media adopted a celebrate the countdown to any and all important events, well, the congestion and confusion would reign supreme. As if it doesn't already. Like I say, I do enjoy sending a personal greeting or congratulations for a birthday, anniversary, special achievement, and many other types of recognition. I am in the observing business and that was an observation, in case you are wondering. And, it's okay if you weren't wondering because I had it on my mind and that's why I wanted to share it. My wife might say I've gone overboard with the postings regarding our puppy, Mr. Bentley. I may be guilty. Going all those years with a no pet policy, I suppose he has become such an impactful factor on our schedules, literally, 24x7. In mostly a good way. Mostly. Not 100%, but, mostly.

One of the reasons I do a flashback Friday segment each week is hoping my recollections were sharper and crisper some 12 or more years ago. I sometimes think I would like to write about things I've not mentioned from my past, however, that gets harder and harder as the days go by. I have said many times and I very much believe I have some really good material stored away, that, for one reason or another, I am unable to access. My dad's sudden passing when I was seven years old certainly is a part of this, however, there could be other factors too. Add to that the aging process and sometimes those anecdotes from yesteryear become as scarce as hen's teeth. Don't get me wrong. I'm proud that my cataloged blogs include hundreds of stories, some repeated, that reflect upon my growing up days. I have read about people who can remember most of their entire life from as early as 2 or 3 years old. On average, people, when challenged to come up with their earliest memory will flag something from around their 4th year. Scientists tell us that often those earliest recollections may not have happened at all. My point? I suppose I shouldn't fret over trying to find information from my earliest recollections when they may not have happened at all. Think about that. No. Think about almost anything other than that because it would likely be more productive.

We will not be casting a vote for the next President of the United States until Tuesday, November 3, 2020. I mention that because if you watch any of the news media these days you would think we are already running out of time. I think they must have added an elective for those taking journalism courses that teach them how to present breathlessness as a way of emphasizing the onset of cataclysmic events. You know. Things like a new poll. The other day I was listening to a fellow on the radio that hosts a program locally and it does have a lot of political forth and back as part of its format. He announced to his audience that he was going to suspend all calls about politics for that particular afternoon segment. He wanted to just have some fun. He said he wanted folks to call in about their times when they were in school and showed up to find their teacher was absent. This meant a substitute came in to watch over them. He told a few of the antics he and his buddies pulled when this occurred and wanted his audience to join in. No politics. Everything will still be in play tomorrow. He advised them not to call all steamed up because of what this pundit said or that posting read because sometimes we just need a break from all that junk. I couldn't agree more. We all need to just relax a little. I offer this as my own personal public service announcement. Enjoy the rest of your day and don't worry too much about that Planck time sequence since it happens so fast it can't be measured anyway. May God bless. Amen. ....More later.

I thought it would be short today. Oh well, we can always hope and sing with Annie: "Tomorrow, Tomorrow, I love ya Tomorrow!"

Hello and welcome. It is Wednesday, June 12, 2019, and I send a warm and hearty welcome to everyone tuning in to today's episode. I can't exactly remember the format of how they used to call out the stardate on the old Star Trek series, but, I do know for those who are keeping track, this is the 3,088th episode of The View From Here. And counting, as they say. The ever so slightly cooler temperatures yesterday and today are very welcome in my world. I started to say they were a sight for sore eyes but I'm not 100% sure exactly what that means and I'm not interested enough to look it up. Earlier in the week they were saying cold front and predicting even lower than we've seen. Maybe I should have said very slightly cooler. But, I'll take it. This past Sunday morning in our Bible Study share group, (called a care group where the class breaks up into small groups), a gentleman was lamenting the weather forecast because he is so cold natured. He said it is maybe even going to dip into the 50s and he held himself and shivered. I know he is sensitive in this way due to health issues, but, it still sounded odd given the really hot weather we are already having. It may be where we all are headed. If so, when I get there it will probably save on cooling costs. I used to dream some about living somewhere where it was generally much cooler than here, however, I am beginning to see the early changes in how I no longer can handle the cold like I used to. I suppose I waited too long. At any rate, enjoy the lower humidity because summer hasn't even officially begun yet. (June 20).

We now have the digital electrical meters. Before, we had the model that made a noise when it was really working hard. On a hot day, that old dude would be hitting shrill high notes with its whirring tune. Now, we get the silent treatment. Until we get the electric bill. That's when I hit the shrill high notes. Just joking. I really can't complain. This will be the second summer for our new central cooling and heating system and it has significantly reduced our monthly outlay for electricity. This is due to technological improvements that continue to improve efficiencies across the board. We have complete trust in the technician who sold us the system we have. However, when he told me his guess as to how much I should save, given my old unit versus the new one, well, I couldn't help but adopt a wait and see on that one. Fortunately, he was right. One lady said she was staying cool by not reading all the heated and inflammatory political postings on social media. That's probably better advice than the old one about cooling off by eating iceberg lettuce. Some might like the Church sign that reads: It may be hot but our facility is Prayer Conditioned. Here's a suggestion to those who want to stay diet and health conscious: It's so hot you could fry an egg white on the sidewalk.

Just so you know, it is not hot in every location across the fruited plain. On June 11, 2019, a place called Thermal, California registered a high of 113, while Aspen, Colorado on that same day saw a low of 26 degrees. I suppose everyone is in search of contentment including the weather. The Bible has much to say about finding contentment. Here are some extracted verses from a portion of the Apostle Paul's letter to the local fellowship of believers in Philippi, Greece.

Philippians Chapter 4

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!

5 Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.

6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. 11 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: 12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

14 Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. 15 Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. 18 Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. 19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

I included the context of the passage because the familiar 4:13 is bantered about as if it stands completely on its own. I think there is ample evidence of how to find and embrace contentment in these verses. Enjoy and may God help us to hear His word to us as we read. Amen. ...More later.

"Jed Clampett: I declare, Granny, the huntin' in these Beverly Hills is gettin' sorrier every day. Me and Duke went as far back in the brush as you could go. The only thing we flushed out was a couple of real estate agents." ~ The Beverly Hillbillies TV Show

Good morning folks and welcome. It is Tuesday, June 11, 2019, and, if I am writing this and I think I am, it sounds like me, I believe the clothes I'm wearing are mine, and if you are reading this, well, we have another day before us. We have awakened to a new day and I do hope you are doing well. As I sit here the thought came to me that I might be dealing with a dry hole situation. There are days when there just seems to be no there, there. I did see a recent photo the other day of a fellow who helped me get started as a young computer worker. (That's his photo on the left.)  I've never believed myself to be self-made. There were many people who contributed to my training, my advancement, and in supporting me along the way. Back in the early 1970s, this guy was one of my first managers. He and I were close. He helped me to get to the next level, several times. I can remember one incident when I had written a scathing review of a major project that had not done well. I had been the project manager. I was really hard on myself. I had him look at it. He said there's no way you are going forward with that. He told me to rewrite it and report it from the positives that were accomplished. That was a good piece of advice. I was a supervisor and then he and I were managers of different groups and on the same reporting level. His wife and my wife became best friends. Time moved on. I continued to grow and develop and the day came when he became one of five managers reporting to me. I never forgot all that he did for me, but, our relationship did change. We were no longer as close as we once were. Things happen. He took medical retirement back in the early 1990s and we lost touch after that. I am very thankful that he looks like he is doing quite well. And, seeing his photo gave me another opportunity to thank God for him and so many others who have helped me in my life.

I know the encouragement for today says you have to make a way for yourself. I did always believe in doing my best, working as hard as I knew how, and applying myself to the work. Over the years, I've been blessed to have been the right-hand person to a lot of different people. I never minded being in that position. I had some folks close to me when I was managing a large organization, but, I can't say I had one right hand go to guy. Maybe that was a flaw of mine. I did have several who might have come close to that status but I just wasn't inclined to operate that way. I suppose I should be glad that others did because being in those situations did much to prepare me for my next opportunity. I would also be very remiss in not saying that God deserves any and all credit for anything I've been able to accomplish. Anything good, that is. The other stuff I can take credit for. I know there were times when people said I was in the right place at the right time. Or, I was this influential person's fair-haired boy. I know that God gave me the abilities I have, the opportunities I've been blessed with, and the favor I found with those who helped me succeed. In spite of myself. And, I mean that. God deserves the honor, the glory, period. Amen.

If someone asked me, looking back, what I would do differently, I would have to inquire as to how much time they have. Most of it has to do with my priorities, my service to God, my wife, my boys, and my extended family. But, we cannot go back and replace the facts with our would've and could've notions. What I can do, what you can do, what we all can do, is to take this day and this time to appreciate the things God has allowed us to learn, and, to do our best to leave a legacy that will have eternal implications as opposed to war stories about how it was in the good old days. Some people like to say that God is the God of the second chance. I'm afraid that's not nearly enough chances for me, but, I am so very thankful that He is there to help us get back on track. Time and time again. Why? Short answer: We belong to Him and He loves us. Even when we are not very lovable. That's about all I have for dry hole Tuesday, but, come back around tomorrow and maybe something will bubble up. Maybe it will happen like it did for Jed Clampitt, "Come and listen to my story about a man named Jed, A poor mountaineer, barely kept his family fed, And then one day he was shootin at some food, And up through the ground come a bubblin crude." We will have to wait and see. Amen. ....More later.