"Great-grandparents are a family's greatest treasure, the founders of a loving legacy, the greatest storytellers, and the keepers of traditions." ~ copied

Hello and welcome. If you missed it, it is Friday, March 28, 2025, and I do bid each one a warm welcome to our time together today. I was briefly delayed this morning. A granddaughter dropped by. She had our four month old great granddaughter with her and great grand Poppy spent some time playing with the baby. Priorities my friend, priorities. And, I might add, time well spent. As a card carrying retired person, those little memes about Friday are not so meaningful to me, but, I know they are to many in and out of our circle. Speaking of retirement, here are a few jewels to think about: "Retiring is just practicing up to be dead. That doesn't take any practice." ~ Will Harvey "I'm against retiring. The thing that keeps a man alive is having something to do." ~ Colonel Sanders "Retiring is one thing. Being retired is something else altogether." ~ Mike Wallace "The company accountant is shy and retiring. He's shy a quarter of a million dollars. That's why he's retiring." ~ Milton Berle "Retiring is the easy way out." Venus Williams "Ain't no worst part about retiring! Believe me." ~ Rasheerd Wallace ~ Okay. Different thoughts about the R-Word, and, I do see that last quote as ringing true with me. Retirement is what you make of it. There are times when I miss the hustle and bustle, the schedule, the people, and, the rush you get from getting the job done. However, retirement gives me lots of time to engage in other activities, be with my family, and, study my Bible. It is, when it's all said and done, it really is what you make of it. That reminds me. I do need to check one more time on my upcoming doctor appointments. Who said I wasn't busy?

 

Speaking of old people, yesterday we had a great time of fellowship and singing at the first gathering of what has been termed the Legacy Choir at our Church, aged 60 and up. We had a total of forty-nine of us belting out hymns and Gospel songs we grew up singing. Had you passed by the practice room you would have heard "I'll Fly Away", "I'm Winging My Way Back Home", "When We All Get to Heaven", "Now Let Us Have A Little Talk With Jesus", "In the Sweet By and By", "The Longer I Serve Him", and many others. As they say in some circles, it was a hoot! Yes, we white haired along with some die jobs did our best to make a joyful noise to the Lord. Music cannot be separated from memories. I've written about this many times. This is why many older Christians long to hear the songs that helped shape their lives growing up. Some say it's all about preference. Hey, we all like what we like but I happen to believe it goes way beyond preference. I've heard so many testimonies over the years about the impact songs had on individuals. "That's the song they were singing the evening I gave my heart to Jesus." "That was my mom's favorite hymn. We sang it at her home going service." Even as I think about all of this I can see my granddad, Paw Paw Mac, who couldn't sing a lick, swinging his song book forth and back as he looked up toward the heavens and belted out, "I don't know about tomorrow but I know who holds my hand." Yes. We sang that one at his home going service too. At any rate, we did have a great time singing yesterday and I look forward to our next gathering. Okay. Who said us retired folks don't have things to do? Y'all get out there and have a wonderful rest of today, Saturday, and may the first day of the week, Sunday, find you and yours in the meeting place where God's people gather to worship and learn more about Him. Amen? I hear you, Amen!

"Cheers to another year of wagging tails, wet noses, and unconditional love." ~ Unknown

Good morning. Today is Thursday, March 27, 2025, and, today we are recognizing the first birthday of our pup, Lil Miss Biscuit. Biscuit is, in a word, rambunctious. She loves. And, she is mostly lovable. Since she is a smaller breed, Shi Tzu/Chihuahua mix, she supposedly should be, at age one year, pretty much fully developed in terms of her physical maturity. The experts say she could move into a 'teenage' phase. Really? She already is a handful, so I don't know exactly what that would look like, but, I can say she already is stubborn so she has that going for her. Ha! My take on Lil Miss Biscuit is this: One would have to work at it not to love her. She will not allow it. And, if you were to try not to love her she will only love you more. Yikes! Sounds like I could learn something from this little feisty fetcher of a pup. What say you?

 

I think the concept of being a loyal opposition has pretty much disappeared in the political world we live in today. On all sides! Yep. I'm not sure doing what's best for our nation is ever front and center from those who, at anytime, happen to be out of power and in the minority. This actually transcends Trump derangement syndrome since both sides typically operate very much alike with regards to trying to destroy the team in power. I do know that politics is a contact sport. And, if you are not willing to mud wrestle you will likely have very little chance of winning. I look at the current state of affairs. It's obvious to me the opposition to the new administration is flailing to get hold of any negative traction they can. They not only make mountains out of mole hills but they come at it in what I would describe as near lunatics. On the other side, the drill is to make mole hills out of mountains. Here's something that is interesting to me. I've watched more than I should have the committee meetings where this most recent inappropriate sharing of information took place. The same people who said our nation was in great hands in the previous administration even though the chief executive was completely incompetent, now say our way of life has been compromised by this one phone call. The same people. Someone incapable of putting complete sentences together was not a security risk? But, this one phone call is? And so it goes, on and on and on. This is why so many Americans hate politics. Here's a quote I found regarding this situation: "Americans hate politics because it is ugly and brings out the worst in people. Politics plays on peoples emotions. The idea of a politician to get elected is to “get into peoples hearts”. Nothing will get people running to the polls like anger and fear. Forget about sound fiscal policy and good governance. Just get the person riled up on your side. All it is doing is dividing us as a nation. True democracies cannot hold up to this. We allow politicians to do that to us, and they are the only ones to gain from this." Stan Anderson, whose background is economics and history.

 

In view of this situation here's what I recommend. Limit time spent soaking all of this up. Spend more time in God's Word, in prayer, and, with family and Godly friends. I want to be even handed here. Both sides. Support those things that reflect the values God has called us to uphold. Oppose those that do not. Do so, knowing that God is the final arbiter of all things. All. He really does have the whole world in His hands and we can trust Him. Go ahead and sing that song. It will encourage our hearts. Today. (And, for me, it also includes plenty of Louisiana made Community Coffee!) Yay! And, Amen! 

"Technology is anything that wasn’t around when you were born." ~ Alan Kay (Computer Scientist)

Hello blog readers wherever you happen to be. I send you greetings from here at the ole blogger ranch to your place, which, based on comments, could be anywhere on the globe. It is Wednesday, March 26, 2025, and I do hope today's visit finds you and yours doing well. That global reach is quite amazing when I think about where we have come from. When I started out, the typewriter was the most prevalent form of written communication. Mainframe computing to support business operations was pretty much in its infancy. When I moved to Houston I joined a company that had a raised floor with a lot of computer equipment. Today, most of us have more computing power in our cell phone than we had combined on that raised floor. Technology. It can be, and has been, a blessing, and, as we have observed, it can be a curse. In the field of medicine it has led to numerous breakthroughs. It has simplified many tasks that were previously difficult and time consuming. On the other hand, we know, firsthand, how the power of the computer can distort reality as so many kids today are addicted to games or taken advantage of through the means of social media. It has been said that technology itself is neither good nor bad, it's how it is used that determines its outcome. I believe that. I still know quite a few people who have decided to be off the grid for themselves and their families. They do not want the inherent risks associated with embracing the so called brave new world. With the advent of Artificial Intelligence, AI, we are only beginning to see what the future might look like. There's some pretty scary scenarios being talked about as AI begins to take over many human functions. Writing books, songs, making decisions, and, a host of other areas may see amazing change going forward. Where will it end up? Good question. I am reminded of the famous saying from the past: The phrase "We have met the enemy, and he is us," is a paraphrase of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry's famous message, "We have met the enemy, and they are ours," sent after the battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812. This "We have met the enemy, and he is us," paraphrase was further popularized by the cartoonist Walt Kelly as spoken by the animal character, Pogo, 1970. 

In the many blogs I have written over the years it's obvious that I write quite often about things I know very little about. I consider myself to be an 'observer at large'. You see things. I see things. Often, I write about them. There was a time when people watching at Walmart was a fairly new thing. Now it's a national craze through social media, videos, posted photos, and other types of exposure. Many have jumped into the fray to get clicks on their page. They monetize their postings. I chose not to go down that path back in 2007 when I wrote my first blog. No advertising. No sponsors. Just me, myself, and I, throwing stuff onto the electronic page. I shared yesterday about some of the foibles we encounter around here, each and every day. After all is said and done, if you can't use yourself as an object of humor, you likely are going to live a fairly sad existence. There's not enough Walmart crazies to fill that void. Sadly, I've known a few folks in my time here on the planet who couldn't seem to find anything to smile about, much less to cause them to laugh. I have always been called a serious minded person. (You would have to walk a mile in my shoes to know the reasons behind that. And, remember, if you do walk a mile in my shoes you will be a mile away and you will have my shoes as a bonus.) At the same time, I do know the good that comes from a hearty guffaw. Jesus during His earthly ministry used funny examples to get his message across. What about the time he talked about a fellow trying to get a tiny splinter out of his neighbor's eye when he had a boulder sticking out of his own eye? (Luke 6:41-46)  See what I mean? My point? Go ahead. Laugh out loud! Can't find something to laugh about? Call up Nate Bargatze, a stand up comedian, on YouTube, and watch some of his routines. Very clean. Very funny. Okay. I will end today's session with this: It's clear I had very little to say but it didn't keep me from saying it. And, as always, seek God first and allow Him to fill in your blanks. Amen. 

"The baby boomers are getting older, and will stay older for longer. And they will run right into the dementia firing range. How will a society cope? Especially a society that can't so readily rely on those stable family relationships that traditionally provided the backbone of care?" ~ Terry Pratchett, English Author, (1948-2015)

Good morning and welcome to today's episode here on this Tuesday, March 25, 2025.  I well remember when being a Baby Boomer was a really big deal. Not so much anymore. I was born in 1946. That's makes me a charter member of the Boomer Club. You don't need a lesson on the birds and the bees to see the impact as soldiers returned to the states from the war oversees. This makes it easy to understand why births shot up in 1946 with some 3,470,000 born in the USA (20% increase). There's a tremendous amount of empirical data, reports, books, and analyses devoted to the impact of the Baby Boomer generation (years 1946-1964). A huge number of births. A huge increase in demands of all kinds. A huge amount of success. But, alas, today those 1.9 million remaining from the 3.5 million born in 1946 are thought of as a potential drain on the economic well being of our nation. Why? The boomers either have or will be retiring at a record pace. Boomers are living longer. Medical costs are through the roof to help them to live longer. Some have even said we boomers do not know when to get off the stage. Life unfolded the way God allowed it to unfold and I want you to know how I see it, whether I have many more years or soon and very soon I could be going home: 1 Samuel 2:6 "The LORD brings death and makes alive; he brings down to the grave and raises up". Don't ask me to explain how God's sovereign will works because it is within His own purview. Nonetheless, my faith is in Him because He can be trusted. Amen. 

A funny thing happened to me on my way to getting to the age I now enjoy. Do funny things happen to you? I will tell you without hesitation, we have plenty of funny going on in and around where I live. I count it a blessing to still be able to laugh at the quirks and quibbles that make up each day. I chuckle when the wife says she needs to run to the store. Why? Neither her nor me have had our running shoes on of late. I haven't quite made it to the point where I try to straighten out in the wrinkles in my socks only to find out I'm not wearing any socks. I did however put my shoes on one day and couldn't figure out why they had suddenly become so tight. Maybe my feet are swollen I thought. I went on my way but later I thought I had better check it out only to find the previous pair of socks stuck down in the toe. Laugh. Might as well. I don't even want to think about how many trips we make to the car before we finally have everything we need to leave. Silly stuff. Like that. Yeah, I've passed that point of joking around about my age. I now tend to embrace it, knowing that each day is a gift. The other day I was getting ready for Church but I forgot I had put some cheese toast in the little counter oven. Talk about burnt. I can remember a time when I would have probably screamed, snarled, kicked, and, something like that would have ruined the rest of my day. Not anymore! I first inspected the toast carefully to see if any of it could be salvaged. (That's what old people do.) But, it was burned to a crisp so into the trash it went and I put two more pieces into the oven. My response? I couldn't help but laugh. I thought how multi-tasking might not be the best course of action for me. Live and learn and laugh. That's today's prescription for us all: Live, Learn, and Laugh. You heard it from a legitimate first year Baby Boomer, therefore, it must be something worth hearing. Right? I thought so too. Enjoy your day as best you can and try not to take it all so seriously. God's still on His throne and we still belong to Him! In Jesus Name, Amen.

 

P.S. I do recognize that I often misappropriate the King's English, mess up the grammar, and even get the facts transferred to the electronic page with an error here and there. If that offends, I apologize. I often see it after the fact and while it does bother me I've chosen to view it like this: "At the end of the day, it is what it is." I quickly add that in my rendering it does not depend on what the definition of 'is' is. (For any of my younger readers: PS is the abbreviation of “postscript” and comes from the Latin phrase post scriptum, meaning “written after.” A PS is an additional thought, comment, or piece of information at the end of a message after your signature. Use a PS to include further details, capture an afterthought, add a personal note, emphasize a point, give a reminder, or provide a call to action. PS is widely used in letters and electronic communication like emails, text messages, instant messages, and social media. Although the punctuation of PS varies, it should always be capitalized. Make sure to punctuate it consistently in all your correspondence.)

“How did it get so late so soon?” ― Dr. Seuss

Welcome back. Today is Monday, March 24, 2025, and, I bid each one a hearty hello from my workstation here to wherever you happen to be. I completed last week by attending a memorial service for a dear brother in Christ. He was a wonderful God honoring man and his home going service was filled with the joy of knowing he has transitioned as "absent from the body, present with the Lord". (2 Corinthians 5:8) Attending these types of services is one of the recurring things us older folks do. Without becoming morbid I can't help but think we find ourselves window shopping for the type of service we would want done for ourselves. It certainly reminds me each time of my own mortality and like it or not, how that each day brings me closer to this event that will culminate my own sojourn here on the planet. The wife and I used to sing together some. One of the songs we sang has to do with how time has made a change. That song didn't mean as much 40 years ago as it does today. Duh! Here are the lyrics of that song:

 

 TIME HAS MADE A CHANGE IN ME
                  (by Harkins Frye)

Time has made a change since my childhood days;
Many of my friends have gone away.
Some I never more in this life will see.
Time has made a change in me.

    Time has made a change
      in the old home place;
    Time has made a change
      in each smiling face.
    And I know my friends
      can plainly see
    Time has made a change in me.

In my childhood days, I was well and strong;
I could climb the hillside all day long.
I am not today what I used to be.
Time has made a change in me.

    Time has made a change
      in the old home place;
    Time has made a change
      in each smiling face.
    And I know my friends
      can plainly see
    Time has made a change in me.
 

When I reach my home in that land somewhere,
With my friends who wait to meet me over there,    
Free from pain and care I'll forever be.        
Time has made a change in me.

 

     Time has made a change
      in the old home place;
    Time has made a change
      in each smiling face.
    And I know my friends
      can plainly see
    Time has made a change in me.

 

Speaking of the wife, she came home yesterday after having been gone ten days over in Louisiana. She and her sister were there primarily to help see after their brother who is headed towards is 90th birthday this upcoming August. He needs caregiver support and they go to give his son a break from time to time. Dorothy will be 80 this upcoming August and the wife, Marilyn, will be 78 this April, but, they are still often referred to as the 'girls'. The photo was taken over there yesterday morning as they were leaving to attend services at Good Hope Baptist Church where Dorothy's son Michael pastors. Those 'girls' in that photo reflect a whopping amount of caring, sacrifice, and, serving the Lord and others. I tell people all the time how they are twins born 18 months apart. Their dad, Bro. W. L. Rawles, was an old-time preacher man and he along with their mom who was one of the most God loving women I've known, well, the girls, they were raised right. All of their family, Cleon, Milton, Dorothy, and, Marilyn grew up knowing what it meant to serve. At age 16 I came onto the scene. That was a while back but I am clear on how this family which became my family made a huge difference in my life. Yep. Time has made a change, but, so has others, too numerous to count, in helping me to become who I am today. And, lest anyone should wonder, I can totally grasp the Apostle Paul's meaning when he said in the letter to the Philippians, Chapter 3, Verse 12,  "Not that already I have obtained it or already have been perfected, but I am pursuing, if also I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus." (from the Berean Literal Bible) I do thank God that He is still working on me. How about you? 

 

But, I am glad she is home. I do hope you get out there and have yourself one God-blessed day. Do it in Jesus Name. Amen.

"The older I get, the better I was." - Anonymous.

Greetings folks. Today is Friday, March 21, 2025. I do hope today's visit finds each one doing. That's right. Doing. The best we know how. Right?  For those in the audience who can be called seasoned adults like myself or perhaps you prefer one of the following: Senior citizen, retired person, pensioner, old-age pensioner (OAP), old person, elderly person, elder, Methuselah, patriarch, senior, retiree, golden-ager, super-annuitant, old-timer, oldie, ancient. Those are the positive ones. Here are a few of the less than respectful ways to call us out: Old-fogey, wrinkly, senile, or past-it. Oh well, I are one, so I just wanted to share some old person perspectives this morning. One of my most persistent frustrations involves the labeling of almost anything as being Easy Open. As my Uncle Claude would have said it, "Easy open my foot, foot fire, foot fire!" The photo above shows one example. I've included my prescription for dealing with so called easy open packaging: The Cleaver! I hear you. What about cutting yourself with the cleaver? At least I know exactly where the emergency room is because had I continued to try and solve the puzzle on that package, well, I would not have needed stitches, I would have needed a straight jacket. I saw an old clip of Red Skelton, one of the comedic giants from the past, (1913-1937) and commenting on his 60 years doing comedy, he said this, "I wake up every morning and if I don't smell candles burning or the fragrance of flowers surrounding me, I get up!" 

Yes. I know opening packaging has to do with dexterity and grip. One of the things I haven't lost is my ability to laugh. Lost yet. I pray that I will not even as I await my transition to my arrival home. (Heaven) I was determined to get that package open without the cleaver, but, after a minute of messing with it, well, let's just say, the cleaver won. A wholesome belly laugh will do anyone some good. Here's the famous Bible quotation from Proverbs Chapter 17, Verse 22: "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones". There's a lot of speculation about how to apply this verse, but, the bottom line does involve joy and the expression of that joy with laughter. Here are a few thoughts I found on Facebook that might just bring a smile. 

 

~ I'm not saying I'm getting old, I'm just saying that my dinner time and bed time are now getting dangerously close to each other.

 

~ I don't mind getting older but my body is kinda having a hissy fit about it.

 

~ I hate to admit it but I sometimes get some road rage just walking behind someone in the grocery store.

 

~ I just saw two older folks jogging down the street. It motivated me. I got up and shut the blinds.

 

~ The older I get it's the more I understand why Noah only allowed animals on the boat.

 

~ Here's a tip for you. Keep a few get well cards on your mantle. That way people who visit will understand why you haven't been able to clean.

 

~ Conventional wisdom tells us to listen to our body. Why is it mine is always telling me I'm old and I need some candy?

 

~ I'm wearing pink today to honor all those who forgot to separate the reds from the whites in the laundry.

 

~ The only air conditioning I had growing up was an open window and a prayer for wind.

 

~ I threw away some of those energy bars and I just noticed the raccoons are in the backyard bench pressing the neighbors trash cans.

 

~ I heard a fellow say he ordered a book off the internet that would tell him how to scam people. That was three months ago and he is still waiting.

 

~ I like to tell people to have a rest of the day as pleasant as they are, and, then I watch them trying to figure out whether or not it was a compliment.

 

Maybe, just maybe, one of those brought an upturn at the corners of your mouth. If not, well, so be it. Here's one I will leave with you. As of this day I am fully persuaded of my truth because I know how I made it, I made it by grace, God's amazing grace! Have a great rest of this day, (make it as pleasant as you are), a great Saturday, and then get ready for a brand new week by showing up at the assembling of the saints at the designated meeting place, (Church), where one can hear from God and enjoy the much needed fellowship with others. May God bless each one! Amen.

Throwback Thursday from four years ago: "I know how I made it, I made it by Grace .... God's Amazing Grace!" ~ Amen.

Today is Thursday, March 20, 2025. Welcome. The following blog for Throwback Thursday garnered a lot of views. I thought I would share it again for many who may have missed it. It was the occasion of my 75th year here on the planet. Yes. I changed the blog to include photos of our Sir Bentley since he was so very popular and we were pleased to share him with our blog audience as well as Facebook.  Enjoy this visit to one of my most popular blogs:

 

"I know how I made it, I made it by Grace .... God's Amazing Grace!" ~ Amen.

 

Good morning and welcome. It is Tuesday, August 17, 2021. Today, speaking on behalf of me, myself, and I, represented on this three score, ten, plus five years, plus one day, (not including the nearly 9 months I spent in my mother's womb), I announce how truly blessed I have been the past several days where my family and friends helped me celebrate my 75th year of sojourn here on the planet. Last Saturday, our eldest son and his wife hosted a barbecue cookout for some 24 of us to observe this milestone. My wife outdid herself in the planning, preparation, and execution to make this day special for me. The food was excellent. The fellowship even more so. We were joined by the wife's sister and her husband, her son and his wife from Fort Worth, our three boys, their kids, (our grandchildren), and five of our great grands. As you know by now, I love to see my life through many of the songs we sing. There is a Southern Gospel tune that sums up my estimation very well: "I know how I made it, I made it by Grace .... God's Amazing Grace!" Amen.

In addition to all the FB greetings, cards, texts, calls, and gifts, yesterday, the Birthday program continued since it was the actual date of my birth. I started the day by taking our middle son Jimmy to the mental health facility for his treatment. I sat out in the parking lot for 2-1/2 hours. I observed a lot. One thing stuck in my mind. An older lady drove up and parked near to me. She got out of the car and spoke to the passenger in a way that I thought must be a small child. It wasn't. It was her husband who couldn't have been much older than me. She took him by the hand and led him into the facility. Tears filled my eyes. Sure, but for the grace of God, that could be me, but more than that I felt a need to pray for that couple and for the dozens of other folks showing up for therapy sessions or treatments. What a way to humble someone on their birthday! The wife stepped up again and prepared a birthday supper feast. Since her sister's husband also had a birthday last week, we celebrated together. Sorry. But the menu was too good not to share. Everything homemade, just saying. We had field peas, fried okra, breaded, fried pork chops, rice and gravy, baked corn on the cobb, potato salad, sliced tomatoes, and melt in your mouth cornbread along with iced tea and some of my sister-in-law's fresh homemade pepper sauce. What a meal! What a blessing! What a way to celebrate our birthdays! Thanks to my wife for her many hours of work.

Okay. I can't leave without mentioning Mr. Bentley. He participated in the eating as well. Mostly, it was just small pieces of the fried pork chops, but, he enjoyed my birthday too. I posted the photo above on the Shi Tzu Facebook page where Mr. Bentley is very popular. I used this caption: "Blessed to celebrate my 75th year today here on the planet. Blessed to be with the wife of my youth for soon to be 57 years, our three sons and their families, 11 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, AND our MR. BENTLEY!" Bentley has a huge following and as of this morning, that posting had 869 likes, 224 comments, and 9 shares. Most of the commenters wished me a happy birthday but also had to say how much they love our pup. Here is a short example: "Happy birthday to you, and beautiful Mr. Bentley and all your family. you are Blessed." Many were very long and went on and on. He is a character and, yes, I am thankful for him being here with us.

Enough gloating, but, hopefully in a thankful manner because I truly believe with all of my heart it is only by the grace of Almighty God! Amen.    Until next time......

That was the throwback. Okay. That was then and as many of you know Mr. Bentley is no longer with us, having passed away in March of 2024. But we are blessed to have Lil Miss Biscuit who is now right dab in the middle of everything. God is still good and I do very much have the same testimony. "I know how I made it, I made it by Grace .... God's Amazing Grace!" Amen. 

“Wednesday is a day to help others celebrate life. You and only you are accountable for what you extend and give to others. One smile not only increases your value but it gives joy to each person you meet.” — Byron Pulsifer

Good Wednesday morning to you on this March 19, 2025. I do understand the hump day concept, but, for someone who worked in the marketplace for over 50 years, well, the middle of the week celebration really didn't do that much for me. I do like today's title quote because it does emphasize the celebration of life and how we can be of a positive impact as we interact with others. This, by the way, reflects God's plan for His own in that we would honor Him and love and care for others. Wednesday, for me and my house, has always been a time when we would gather at the local assembly meeting place. (Called out local assembly: The Greek word "ekklesia" (ἐκκλησία), often translated as "church" in English, originally referred to an assembly or gathering of citizens in ancient Greek-city-states, particularly in Athens. Sourced from the Artificial Intelligence AI filter on Google.) These Church meetings on Wednesday are often referred to as mid-week services. Many Churches have forgone these meetings but here's my simple minded way of looking at it: Do we as the people of God need more or less teaching from His Word? At one time the local Church was the center of people's lives. Today it is most often looked at as an option among the many others vying for our time. I believe in the local Church. I believe in it more than I do in sharing organizations, conventions, or associations. That's right. If we are to be called a New Testament Church then we should follow the pattern that defines a local Church as given in the Scriptures, especially in those inspired texts from the Apostle Paul. I watched a TV program early this morning talking about 'the Church' today and guessing at what tables our Lord Jesus would be turning over were He to show up and evaluate our idea of what Church should be. That's a sobering thought my friend. I will let us all think about it. Including me. That's right. Never forget, it's me, it's me, it's me oh Lord, standing in the need of prayer. 

 

Bear with me folks. I climbed the stairs fifteen minutes ago with no idea what today's episode would be about. That first paragraph came from a thought. Maybe it was that TV program. With my thinking machine, now working at a level less than it did in the past, who knows? I had a followup appointment with the pulmonologist yesterday afternoon. I told him I used to be able to have an allergy issue, take some over the counter stuff and it would be gone in a hurry. Now, that is no longer the case. It hangs on, and on, and on. He laughed. I hate it when the doctor laughs. He pretty much said my body no longer responds exactly like it used to. Duh. He played the age card. Again. As I head towards that road sign that says 80, I am hearing that more often these days. He did what all good doctors do. He wrote me some additional prescriptions. Yay! None of us look forward to the day when everything hurts and what doesn't hurt no longer works. Oh, I read the same memes you do. Inside every older person is a younger person wondering what in the world happened. I read one that said what messes with our heads is the picture we have of how it is supposed to be. Let me jump in here and make it clear that I'm just kidding around. I am extraordinarily grateful to God for the privilege of being the age I am. It's true. Getting old is not for sissies, but, I, for one, am amazed when I consider the mercy and grace of Almighty God who sent His one and only Son, the Lord Jesus, to save someone as unworthy as me. And, having accepted His provision given through His death, burial, and resurrection, I have forgiveness, eternal life, and 24x7 I have His Spirit living in me. Yep, I may be 78 years, 6 months plus the 9 that mom carried me, but, I have more to be thankful for today than I did yesterday. What say you? Have a good one now, you hear? May God add His blessings. Amen.

"Blessed is the man, who having nothing to say, abstains from giving wordy evidence of the fact." ~ George Eliot (famous writer whose name was actually Mary Ann Evans, (1819-1890)

I am here. Again. Yep. Same station, and I do bid one and all a hearty hello and welcome from my tiny little gnat of a spot on the world wide web or blogosphere, as I like to call it. It is Tuesday, March 18, 2025, and I am at it. I started to say off and running but that would have required some additional explanation, therefore, I decided to go in a different direction. Going in different directions is a trait of mine, and, I do it all at the same time. Just so you know. But, I will just do the best I can because YOLO, (you only live once), and I don't expect to ever be called the GOAT, (greatest of all time), so, I will settle for occasionally have someone LOL, (laugh out loud),  hoping they don't repond in this way, TLDR, (too long didn't read). That last one about my wordiness comes up from time to time. Those abbreviations I used are actually the ones deemed acceptable on social media platforms today. There are dozens of them in use and some are what were once thought to be crude. Not any more. The 1964 song title written by Bob Dylan sums this up, "The Times They Are a-Changin'" And, so they are. It's easy to say, especially at my age, how that most of the change is bad. However, it is a mixed bag. I am still here writing my inconsequential blog today and had nothing at all changed in the field of medicine I would have likely gone on to my reward many years ago. I know. That's in God's hands, but, I'm talking about Him allowing breakthrough discoveries to be made that have improved response to and treatment of many diseases. On the other hand, society today may reflect the saying that originated in the 1800's, "It's going to hell in a handbasket." This saying is thought to have come about related to the California gold rush where men were lowered by hand in baskets down mining shafts to set explosives which could have deadly consequences. Here's my take: Those who die having never put their faith in Jesus are going to hell, period. The late Bible expositor extraordinaire, Dr. J. Vernon McGee said he was frequently asked about those who had never heard to which he replied, leave that in God's hands but what about you? Good question. Amen?

 

The wife of my youth is over in Louisiana seeing after her 89 year old brother. I'm so glad she can still go and help out, but, I also can say this about that. I miss her. When you are working as a team in a marriage of over 60 years, well, the team doesn't do as well when it is split up. Thankfully, I can visit with her by texting several times a day. She hasn't reminded me to water her plants but she will. (I already have watered them.) We have not done our federal income tax return yet. We have paid almost nothing in, so, we will owe whatever it is based on the final outcome of our accounting process. Just so you know, we intentionally don't pay anything in. That's my choice. Yep. I do typically pay a small penalty for not paying in, but, it's my money and I have it as an option so that's the way I do it. As you can tell, I am unanimous in this approach. You betcha. I mention that because she helps to motivate getting it done. I will confess that I put things off. Okay. It's not my best feature. She has more than once pronounced me to be the world's greatest procrastinator. How do you like that? In her eyes I am the world's greatest. That's a huge line behind me. Right? This means when she returns we must get after it. It will take a couple of days of wailing and gnashing but we will get it done, prepare our return, and pay our share. Glad to do it because do we live in a great country or what? In the meantime, if they want to reduce the tax burden on old people, I am all for it. I don't think I was as much for it 25 years ago, but, I am now. I'm on board. Y'all have a good day and pray that I still be of sound mind, (forget the body part), when she returns next Sunday. Have a great day and may God be praised. He deserves our praise. He does. He really does. Amen.

"Being Irish, he had an abiding sense of tragedy, which sustained him through temporary periods of joy." — William Butler Yeats

I think because it's Monday, March 17, 2025, St. Patrick's Day, I am supposed to open with this ditty, "Top of the morning to one and all!" For me, myself, and I, along with Lil Miss Biscuit, it's just Monday and we look up and thank God for it. I will let the scholars continue to address the factual issues related to St. Patrick and the snakes in Ireland. It seems, at least in my observation, here in the United States, celebration of this day has mostly to do with the color green and in drinking green beer. I'm sure there are some folks who observe it for religious reasons but I've not met them yet. And, be sure that I would never intentionally offend people of Irish extraction with my ignorance on the matter. Meanwhile, life goes on here at the ole blogger ranch. My primary care doctor's registered nurse called me last Friday. She said the doctor had reviewed all the labs from my recent annual checkup and while my A1c had increased from 6.2 to 6.6, he concluded my overall results, (about 20 readings), were reasonable. (A1C stands for hemoglobin A1c. It is a blood test that measures the average blood sugar (glucose) level over the past 2-3 months.) I thanked her for calling. After thinking about it for a while I began to wonder what it means to say the results were 'reasonable'. People at our local assembly gathering (Church) asked me how I was doing and I responded that I guessed I was reasonable since that was the word from my doctor. I looked up the word and I am guessing that having gotten this summary I can say that I am appropriate, fair, or moderate. That was my first time to hear the reasonable indication but I am going to say this about it. It could have been unreasonable and I'm pretty sure that would have been very problematic. You do know what I mean. Right, Vern?

 

I cannot deny my nostalgic leanings. I have much to look forward to as a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, but, I also enjoy reliving stuff from my past, in my mind's eye. This doesn't mean I live in the past, but, I do enjoy my visits where I stroll down memory lane. Merriam-Webster informs me that to be nostalgic means "I have a longing for or thinking fondly of a past time or condition". Thank you very much dictionary folks. Let me set one thing straight. Many of my visits to the past involve old days not good old days. While some involve gut wrenching sadness, they too are a part of who I am today. I know some folks who have pretty much chosen to un-remember (not a word) just about everything about their past. It somehow serves them in coping with today. That would not be me. And, don't get me wrong. I am well aware of how we can polish up and make things better way back then than they actually were. I also need to make it clear that I am not obsessed with my occasional strolls. They can be very positive. Would it surprise you to know that the concept of remembering is mentioned some 550 times in the Bible? One example might be how my mom would get us up, feed us, and make sure we wore our Sunday best so we would be in Sunday School and Church, every Sunday, every Wednesday evening, and every time the doors opened at the meeting place. None of that will get anyone to heaven, but, I do recall how chaotic and challenging it was to wrestle the six of us kids because she had a thing about us showing up looking our best. Yep. Everything clean, ironed, shoes shined, and ready for inspection. She thought the way we looked was a reflection on her. I know. People today would say she was crazy for thinking that way, but, I believe she was a very special mom for doing what she did. It causes me to thank God for the mom He provided to us. Therefore, I will keep on looking back even as I cannot even fathom what it will be like when I experience the promise of my Savior, "that where I am, you may be also." (John 14:3) Can I get an Amen on that? Yeah. Me too. Amen and Amen!

"Dogs leave pawprints on our hearts." ~ copied

Some of you might recall the other day when I said I was feeling 50 something. Not today. Today is Friday, March 14, 2025, and perhaps it just happened to be one of those days when you wake up feeling like 78 years, 6 months, plus the 9 my mom carried me. Yep. All of those. But, guess what? I still feel pretty good and who knows? Tomorrow I might be feeling 50 something again. The photo of Lil Miss Biscuit was made last night around 11 p.m. I had fallen asleep in the recliner with her in my lap. Again. I know. That's the move of a 78 year old. I agree. That Biscuit is a funny little critter. She has her own little fenced pen, but, she does her best to stay out of it as much as possible. If she thinks I am thinking about putting her in the pen she will play like she is sleeping, hoping I will not disturb her. (Note to self: Google what a 50 something feels like so I will know it next time I feel that way.) Just joking. That Biscuit will flat wear you out. She is rambunctious, and, tireless. I've never seen anyone she didn't love. There may have been one or two she was neutral in her response but that reflected more on them than her. She is a live wire and generally a happy little pup. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, writer of Sherlock Holmes, had this to say, "A dog reflects the family life. Whoever saw a frisky dog in a gloomy family, or a sad dog in a happy one? Snarling people have snarling dogs, dangerous people have dangerous ones." A heavy thought for a Friday, but, one we all can understand. Right? I thought so. 

 

CityAlight band, give them a listen.

I went to sleep watching a TV program about the goings on in an ancient kingdom in Korea. I am a sucker for historically accurate period pieces. It had subtitles. Needless to say, you don't read the subtitles when you are asleep. Hey. I'm just trying to inform anyone who might be wondering. When I woke up I texted forth and back with the wife for about twenty minutes. They are first attending a big Southern Gospel singing festival in Northeast Louisiana before going on to visit her brother. We listen to and watch a lot of Southern Gospel here in our home but not exclusively. We love hymns both ancient and modern. I mentioned before about this group from Australia, called CityAlight. They have a contemporary sound set to some of the most God honoring lyrics I'm seen. If you have YouTube you can easily call them up. I enjoy lyrics that reflect truth, I enjoy lyrics quoted directly from The Scriptures, those that you don't have to scratch your head to get the meaning. Sometimes so called Christian songs have really great music but lack a clear presentation of truth. That, at least, is my gut on the subject. Does preference play a role? No doubt. But, I still believe the truths reflected in the lyrics makes it God honoring or not. 

Okay. It's hard to believe, but, it's already Friday and as my grandfather used to tell me, "Son, you've got the same shoes to get glad in." And, so I do, and so do you as well. May our TGIF be a true recognition of He who has brought us to where we are today. He can be trusted to see us through until the end. Have a great Saturday and Lord's Day Sunday, and, Lord willing I will catch back up with you soon. Amen. 

"All you need for happiness is a good gun, a good horse, and a good wife." ~ Daniel Boone

Hey. It's a beautiful day in a neighborhood, somewhere, and it's not so shabby right here in my own little GPS location on the map. I'm trying to keep a positive thought flow here on this Thursday, March 13, 2025. I say that because the wife has left me again. With good reason. She is headed over to Louisiana to help care for her 89 year old brother. She and her twin sister, born 18 months apart, try to go over when they can to give our nephew, an only child, a break since he is the full time caregiver for his dad. Her brother is a legendary man of many talents who has a reputation for being a wonderful friend and neighbor. Sadly, his dementia has taken its toll but he is in reasonably good physical shape and the girls, as they are called, always enjoy their time with him. Meanwhile, back at the ole blogger ranch, it's just not the same when she is not here. As we continue our journey together into our 61st year, well, it typically takes all hands on deck to keep everything headed in the right direction and out of the ditches. Our days are peppered with "Did you remember to ...." or "You do know you left that running...." or "Isn't it time for your medications?" Stuff like that. I feel blessed in that I know how to do basic cooking and I also know the way to complete a transaction at the drive through window. So, I will not starve. But, she is a worker. I tell her she can do more than me since she is a handful of months younger. At any rate, I will miss her over the next 8 days but I will stay in touch and always and forever thank God for the help meet He provided to me. Amen. (In case you wondered, the 1611 King James translators rendered the phrase as "help meet", Genesis 2:18. In 16th-century English, "meet" meant "fitting" or "proper".)

 

I am getting ready to get ready to think about thinking about doing our federal tax return. I typically download a new version of the tax software I've used for years, TaxAct. I'm told often there are better packages available, some at a lower cost, but, I've learned how to use it, therefore, it works for our return. The wife and I work together on it. Here's a recommendation: You better have a good marriage if you work on your joint return together. And, be prepared for some loud fellowship as you work through the various documentation and other materials needed to complete the return. Since we are professional Christmas entertainers, Santa and Mrs. Claus, well, we have to fill out all the documents for that business, if you will. We do our best to render unto Caesar what belongs to Caesar but I do say that doing the taxes is a very taxing experience each year. Why not use outside help? We could do that but it would be somewhat of a throwing in the towel since we've been doing our own for our entire time together. While I do have the rendering part down pat, I can tell you there are things about taxation that does tend to get one stirred up. Total taxation on average in the United States including local, state, and federal was just under $18,000 per year per tax paying family in 2021. I hear this one quite often, do you ever really own the home you live in and have paid for? This speaks to the variety of taxes allocated as connected to residential property. For some reason things like this become more glaring as one gets older. I thought I would pass that on so you won't be surprised later on. You can thank me later. 

I will try to get some of the preliminary stuff done while she is away. Sorry if talking about taxes is a downer to some. One thing we should all be reminded of when taxes are discussed: We live in the greatest country on the face of God's created earth, period. And, because of this, I will gladly pay my taxes while being very opinionated about the process itself and how the funds we pay are misused. That's the way I see it. Feel free to see it your way. My way. Your way. What could be more American than that? Now, get out there and see what you can do to help reduce the tax burden on old people, and, know that I are one. May God add His blessings. Amen.

" It's paradoxical, that the idea of living a long life appeals to everyone, but the idea of getting old doesn't appeal to anyone." ~ Andy Rooney, (1919-2011)

Well, hello there, seems like we were just here, yesterday, if my memory serves me well. And, I do bid you a God blessed day on this Wednesday, March 12, 2025. I was prone to be a daydreamer as a kid and my grandfather used to say that I woke up in a new world every minute, or something like that. We were often out in the woods cutting down trees and sawing them up for firewood. He wanted me to spend more time focusing on my end of the crosscut saw than dreaming about Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone. Maybe it was because of the difficult life he had experienced or having survived two world wars and the Great Depression, but, he did take his work seriously, seriously. When I would drag my end of the saw a little, he would stop and say, "Son, I did not eat your breakfast this morning, so quit leaning on the saw. Get with now, you hear?" I was likely not so pleased to hear an ongoing rattle of admonitions so early in the morning, but, my how I would love to hear them again as I rewind and play those archived memories stored somewhere in one of those mental filing cabinets. You see? My grandad didn't just bark. He always showed up to do as much as anyone else. It was like his moral duty. He wasn't necessarily articulate, but, his message was always clear as a bell. (Pure as the sound of a bell; also, readily understood. For example, Did you understand the message I left you?—Yes, clear as a bell . This simile, which alludes to the bell's clarity owing to lack of overtones, was already a proverb in John Ray's English Proverbs (1670).) His lessons were more caught than taught. He believed in getting up every day and doing what he could in whatever activity he was involved in. When Granny couldn't do much because of her many ailments he would handle the kitchen work just like he handled his end of the saw. If a neighbor needed help he would show up with his carpenter tools in hand. He did as much as he could to show me how to do things. I was not so much inclined to pick up on the many work activities, but, I learned early on how such an unassuming man can be most influential in handing down his values and his faith. 

I know. I talk a lot about my granddad. I had others in our extended family that were of great help in molding me into the person I would become. I feel so blessed. I may not have recognized it at the time but I had so many people doing their best to look out for my well being. Most of them have gone on to their reward. I remember hearing a sermon by the late Dr. Jerry Falwell where he made some comments about those in heaven. He used Hebrews 12:1 "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us." In his way of seeing it, the crowd of witnesses include those who have gone on to heaven and they are watching us run our race here and they are cheering us on. The passage goes on to say this: "We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up. After all, you have not yet given your lives in your struggle against sin." (verses as rendered in the New Living Translation) I'm not certain Dr. Falwell is right about those in the stands, but, it is a mighty good thought to see so many beloved to me hooping and hollering in their support of my race here. I do like the thought. I really do. What say you? (I've always taught the crowd or cloud of witnesses are the examples and testimonies set forth by those we read about in The Scriptures.) I still like his thoughts. Now you go out there and have yourself one special day because God is cheering us all on. He is. He really is! Amen.

"I went to the library to get a medical book on abdominal pain, but somebody had ripped the appendix out." ~ copied

Well, that's taken care of, more or less. I'm talking about my annual physical checkup. It ran a wee bit longer than I anticipated on this Tuesday, March 11, 2025.   I show up, weigh in, get my blood pressure checked, and, then she asked me. The nurse: "Sir, have you ever had one of the dementia evaluation tests done?" Hello? Are you talking to me? I told her I think I may have done one but I'm not sure. The nurse: "Would you like to complete one today?" Who? Me? Do you think I need to have one done? The nurse: "Sir, it is completely voluntary so if you would rather not we can skip it." Just a cotton picking minute, what's the deal? You think I might not be able to pass it, is that what you are implying? The nurse: "It's not that important so we can just proceed with the doctor's examination." Not hardly young lady. Give me that test and let me see how bad off I am. She handed me an iPad. I picked it up, hit the start and the thing commenced to talk to me. Give me a break. The iPad told me we would need to go through some test warmup exercises in order to prepare me to take the actual test. Each time you match the symbols you are encouraged to do it faster and faster. Okay. I took the self-administered, iPad-based tool for screening cognitive dysfunction in a clinic setting. I then had a good visit with my primary care. He is an excellent doctor. I told him how much I appreciated his help over the years in dealing with that unholy trinity: me, myself, and I. He allowed how it was a partnership. He checked me over. I then brought up the 2 minute drill that began my day with them. He told me not to worry about it because it is only one of the many factors considered in recognizing cognitive decline. No, doc, that's not good enough. He then said he could look up my results if I wanted him to. Please do. He did. I was relieved to find out my score was significantly above the warning threshold. You know. It's like the warning light on the dashboard of your vehicle. Right now the light is off. But, given the age and mileage, it could come on at any time. I then brought myself to the lab where they took 7 vials of my blood, took the RSV shot, and then went to Chick-fil-A for some of those tiny little yeast rolls with chicken in them. Their coffee was passable but it is not Louisiana Community. And, in case you were wondering, when it comes to coffee, I am unanimous in my opinion. 

 

I was pleasantly surprised at the positive responses to yesterday's brief take on the design of our government in terms of the separation of powers. Those checks and balances are there for a reason. Yes. I am fully aware how easily they can be sidetracked and abused by one or all of the branches. It is a blessing that we are still functioning nearly 249 years after our official founding as a nation. That's right. Next year will be the 250th birthday and I know they are already planning a huge nationwide party to celebrate. Here's my take: Only by the providential hand and undeserved grace of God. Much good has been accomplished because God saw fit to provide a United States of America. History reveals that we have had our fair share of corrupt leaders during our time as a nation. Yet, God saw fit to keep us going. How could this be? I think about the Old Testament account of the mighty ruler Nebuchadnezzar and how God referred to this pagan king as His servant. (see Jeremiah 25:9, 27:6, and 43:10) My reason for pointing this out is simple. God's got this folks and we should not lose hope or sleep knowing He is in control. Note to self: Try to practice what you preach. I heard that one a lot growing up, especially when I was tattle telling or pointing out the faults of others. Okay. As you can tell I am still a little woozy from having to deal with that cognitive dysfunction screening. Go ahead and smile. Might as well, And, seek Him who does make the final decisions because we can trust Him. Amen. 

"Take care of your body. It's the only place you have to live in." - Jim Rohn, (American Motivational Speaker, 1930-2009)

Welcome back friends and neighbors where I will try my best to give you 'the rest of the story' (the late great Paul Harvey reference) on this Monday, March 10, 2025.  Let me first say this about my blogging activity. I am rusty, having not done regular episodes for some time now, however, I am humbled by the positive reception and feedback I am getting. That is encouraging in my work as an observer at large. I do have my annual physical checkup tomorrow. Because of my long term diabetes there will be plenty of blood work and other labs. Based on the CT Scan from last Friday, my tiny little chest nodules are unchanged, therefore, I will not require another scan for six months. I count that assessment as a blessing. Here's my dilemma regarding my annual, I really can't think of anything that is concerning to me. I consulted the wife and she said something about me taking a long long trip by myself as a way of helping. She didn't say that. It was only one long not two. Just joking. Man! It's kind of bewildering not to be able to think of any ailment to complain about. I could opt for the "Doctor, it hurts when I do that, and, he could tell me to stop doing that." Maybe they should do one of those mental tests to see how bad off I am. I've heard about them. It's all about remembering stuff and related such challenges. Hey, at my age it should show some slippage and as you can tell I would be perfectly fine with it since it wouldn't bother me, bother me, bother me, one iota. I'm just messing around but I will end this paragraph by thanking God for not being in such bad shape for the shape I am in. Can I get a witness? Amen!

 

As the newly elected administration takes hold, I, for one, am okay when the courts become involved if and when an action is deemed in need of constitutional review. The wisdom of our founders is seen in the design of the three co-equal branches of our government. The President has enormous power, only limited by The Constitution. Our system is also very flawed in that human beings make up the different branches. At the same time we are a country of laws. I've heard over and over again the comments about how the previous President brushed aside constitutional processes and essentially made laws on his own. That should not have been done, but, it does not mean it should be allowed in the current environment. What about judges who overstep their authority? They are eligible for review all the way up to the Supreme Court. Here's something interesting to me. The waste and abuse found in the review of government spending is a stark reminder of how much the use of taxpayer funds is off the rails. At the same time, it is Congress that appropriates and the last time I checked the upcoming Continuing Budget Resolution does not have those categories of abuse deleted. Sure. It's one thing to knee jerk a standing ovation when these outrageous examples are given by the President in the joint session of The Congress. But, it's something entirely different when it comes to doing the work he or she has been sent to Washington to do. If they are truly outraged by the flagrant misuse of our monies then, as our Pastor likes to say, get up off your Blessed Assurance and do something! This is why it's not hard to understand how the saying came about, from Shakespeare, "A plague on both your houses." This later became "A pox on both your houses." And, today, it is often said, "A pox on all your houses." Call me cynical if you like but at this particular time, even though I like some of what is going on, I will trust only in the Lord our God! You do what you think is right.

 

Now don't go getting the wrong idea. I support government. I pay my taxes. I participate in the process. This is my duty as a citizen but even more importantly, it is my duty as one who reads and attempts to apply the truths given to us from above as found in God's Holy Word. I do all those things to the best of my ability, knowing I miss the mark at times, but, I still reserve the right to have an opinion, and, you have the right to have your own. And, I can be wrong. And, you can be wrong. Do we live in a great country or what? We do. Thank God. Until next time, rise and shine and give God the glory, glory! Children of the Lord! Amen.