George Washington, 1st U.S. President: "While we are zealously performing the duties of good citizens and soldiers, we certainly ought not to be inattentive to the higher duties of religion. To the distinguished character of Patriot, it should be our highest glory to add the more distinguished character of Christian."

Whew! I'm glad that's over. All tuckered out. Already? Yeah, just back from the physical therapy appointment and to say it kindly, I hurt all over more than anywhere else. It's Friday, June 19, 2026, and, I am thankful to have survived and I am thankful to live in this country. What say you? After our patriotic music presentation at the care home for elderly people, we all went and greeted those who had gathered to hear us sing. One lady I spoke to held my hand and I said to her, "God bless you." And, then, I said, "And, God bless America." Upon that last greeting she lay hold of my hand and squeezed it as hard as she could. Here's my explanation: She, like many of us, are pretty well done in our time to enjoy the blessings of freedom and liberty, yet, we know if our offspring and theirs are going to enjoy the same, God will have to make it happen. He will. He really will. The world thinks if they can only find the right leader or the right political platform or all kinds of idealistic programs, but, without God all of any of those things are doomed to fail. Seek God today, tomorrow, and as long as we have breath in our bodies on behalf of this great nation He has allowed us to live in and to enjoy its blessings. Amen.

 

I did give the lady therapist an idea of how well our time together is going. Before meeting her I was in pain most of the time. Most. Since our time together started I now experience pain 24x7. That's why this afternoon I will be seeing the orthopedic to see if he can order up some shots to help this situation. The lady therapist said the last thing they wanted to do was to add to my pain levels. Hello somebody! I can hear some of you now, loud and clear, "Bless your heart." Thanks and I hope you mean it because many times that's what we say in the South whenever we really don't follow or agree with their particular circumstance. They worked me so hard today I felt like I had been rode hard and put away wet. I'll let you look up that colloquial idiom to get the complete meaning, but, if you don't have time I'll use this one: I feel like a bunch of thugs jumped out of a car and beat on me with baseball bats on my legs and hips. Got it? Good. You do know I am exaggerating some. Slightly. Y'all enjoy your Friday and Saturday, while you get ready to do business with Creator God by showing up at the place where believers gather to worship Him and learn more from His Holy Word. Amen.

"The pain of parting is nothing to the joy of meeting again." ~ Charles Dickens

Good morning and welcome. Today is Thursday, June 18, 2026, and, as is often said, time is getting away from us, and, it is, it really is. Thanks for praying for our Jimmy. After observation they released him to come home for more observation. Their theory is he had some type of reaction to one of the handful of pills he has to take each day just to keep him going. This is not a completely new outcome for us, but, we are thankful it was not a more serious diagnosis. Today I am remembering my brother Donald who passed away 15 years ago. He was two years younger than me and he was an interesting kid growing up. I think the word unconventional might be the best way to describe him. Or, perhaps nonconformist. At any rate, he typically lived out his time in Donald-world. He loved his jet black dog, Lobo, from the get go. He loved fishing. With a passion. We had a little creek about maybe a half mile away from our home and he would go nearly every day, rain, sleet, or snow, as they say. He would go into the field behind our house and dig him up a few earthworms and take his pole, line, and hook and head off along with his little dog Lobo, to the creek bank, Brushy Creek to be exact. Granny Mac might holler out, "Son, look out for snakes!" He would just laugh. He grew up calling things like he saw them. Our little Church had more hypocrites than you could shake a stick at. It did. It really did. The kind that sat in the Deacon's Corner on Sunday and would take advantage of a widow or elderly person on Monday. Donald would call that out and poke fun at the obvious disconnect. When he graduated from high school, at age 17, he had mom sign for him to go into the Marine Corp. He spent the next twenty years serving our country and much of that time was spent preparing young recruits serving as a drill instructor. After retirement, he worked in a high school ROTC program and also as a manager for a trucking firm. He loved Gospel music and he would often assure our mom that he was ready to meet God. I was able to be with him quite often during his last days here on the planet. He was across the Houston metroplex from me, but, I was the closest family member to him. I am thankful that I was able to pray over him along with my sister and a few others as he departed this life for the next. I also felt very privileged to present the Word of God at his home going service. Unique. That's another word to describe him, almost, from the time he was born. May God comfort all of his children and grandchildren as they remember him today. Amen.

 

Lord willing, this afternoon our old people's singing group, officially call the Legacy Choir, will be presenting some patriotic tunes at one of the nursing homes in our area. The name nursing home often causes people to envision in a negative way a place of neglect and isolation. Because of this, the elderly care business has attempted to present names that tell a different story. A consultancy has these name considerations to help the image of this particular care business: Serene Embrace Senior Living; Graceful Guidance Care Center; Compassion Cove Assisted Living; Caring Whisper Residence; Patient Pulse Senior Sanctuary; Tender Harbor Retirement Haven; Loving Kindness Rest Home; Empathy Elder Cottages; Gentle Grove Senior Retreat; Endearing Echo Care Community; Harmony Haven Elderly Care; and, I kid you not, the list went on and on, and on. I just hope they don't treat me like they have in the past. You know. "Sir, aren't you supposed to be in your room right now. It will soon be time for your meds." Okay. That's a joke, but, for those in my age bracket I will tell you it is one that we all can identify with and even laugh about, albeit nervously. I look forward to ministering to these folks. I know they appreciate any and all opportunities to have contact with, let's just say it like this: The outside world. May God bless us as we seek to minister in His name in and through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

"There is nothing God doesn't know about your life. You may know the past and present, but God also knows the future. Choose today to walk securely - not in what you know, but in what you believe." ~ Dr. David Jeremiah

Folks, I've said it before and while it may be a 'duh' comment, it's still true: We never know what a day might bring. Today, it is Wednesday, June 17, 2026, and, we have been up pretty much the entire day already. Our Jimmy is back in the hospital after suffering some seizure-like symptoms. The wife carried him to the ER around 1 a.m. this morning and we do appreciate prayers on his behalf. To be honest, we had many other plans for our day but we are trusting God to help us to deal with whatever comes our way. We have so many of our dear friends, brothers and sisters in Christ, as well as family members, who are needing a special touch from Above. They do. They really do. On any given day, literally, my social media feed is filled up with folks seeking God's intervention. That tells me we are a needy people and as the song says, Jesus is right for whatever wrong in your life. He is. He really is. The truth remains the truth regardless of what you or I might be experiencing in this life. God is in control. He is on His throne. And, we can trust Him to see us through. I well remember a young man, having recently lost his beloved father, as he came to the platform and he presented this song:

 

Bow the Knee ~ Songwriters: Mike Harland /Christopher Machen

 

There are moments on our journey following the Lord
Where God illumines every step we take
There are times when circumstances make perfect sense to us
As we try to understand each move, He makes
When the path grows dim and our questions have no answers, turn to Him

 

Bow the knee
Trust the heart of your Father when the answer goes beyond what you can see
Bow the knee
Lift your eyes toward heaven and believe the One who holds eternity
And when you don't understand the purpose of His plan
In the presence of the King, bow the knee

 

There are days when clouds surround us, and the rain begins to fall
The cold and lonely winds won't cease to blow
And there seems to be no reason for the suffering we feel
We are tempted to believe God does not know
When the storms arise, don't forget, we live by faith and not by sight

 

Bow the knee
Trust the heart of your Father when the answer goes beyond what you can see
Bow the knee
Lift your eyes toward heaven and believe the One who holds eternity
And when you don't understand the purpose of His plan
In the presence of the King

 

Bow the knee
Trust the heart of your Father when the answer goes beyond what you can see
Bow the knee
Lift your eyes toward heaven and believe the One who holds eternity
And when you don't understand the purpose of His plan
In the presence of the King

 

Bow the knee
Bow the knee
Bow the knee
Bow the knee

 

 

His voice shook some as he shared this testimony from his grief supplanted by his belief. Our family has been through many difficulties that were often called tragedies and I can tell any and all what I have learned: When it seems there is no way, God is still the only answer. He is. He really is. I've been told by onlookers who say we just find a way to inject God into every challenge. They were so right. We do, and, I hasten to add we should do it as a normal part of our living out each and every day. We should. We really should. Do I always do that? You talking to me? I do not, but, that doesn't change how I should, you should, we all should be seeking God's hand in every breath we take. Okay. I, more or less, threw this together and you may have heard the statement that a person who represents themselves in court as a fool for a lawyer, well, I quickly add that a person who proofreads is own material has a fool for a proofreader. Or, something like that. Y'all have a great rest of today and may God add His blessings. Amen.

"Distractions in church services are common and can stem from several sources, ranging from modern technology like cell phones and digital glowing screens to situational factors such as latecomers, wandering children, excessive noise, or even erratic crowd movements." ~ copied

I get it. Yesterday's twenty Bible verses made it longer than most days, HOWEVER, those verses give hope and they give life, therefore, those twenty verses are worth all the time necessary to read them, take them into our hearts, and to then meditate on them as we go about our living the life God has given to us. That's why I will not make any apologies or excuses whenever I include God's breathed out truths. Are we clear on it now? Just messing with you, even though it's the truth, on this Tuesday, June 16, 2026. I am aware how we have mutilated our attention spans in these media saturated days. We have. Me too! The man of God climbs into the pulpit and announces how he feels led to read a long passage. The response might include a few 'amens' but underneath there is a shifting of individual tectonic plates as the groans can be heard far and wide. I know. People don't have tectonic plates. It's an illustration. Okay? Why do we knee jerk respond like that to the presentation and reading of God's Word? First of all, even as believers our old man nature, (Ephesians 4:22), is still there to wreck anything spiritual. Secondly, the deceiver of this world, he doesn't want us to grow in the grace and knowledge or our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, (2nd Peter 3:18). Lastly, we have our minds on other things. If we are dealing with anything on the electronic screen, our average attention span drops to an average of 40 seconds or less. Me too! A few years ago a wonderful church-lady spoke to me about our services and she said this: "I don't like it when the worship pastor reads from the Bible. We hired him to do the music and reading the Bible is the senior pastor's job." I rest my case, your case, all our cases, and, I recommend we seek God's help today. Now would be a good time. It would. It really would. 

 

Yes. I am aware there are those who are not very good at reading period, much less, God's Holy Word. I recall something I read about the respected man of God, Charles Haddon Spurgeon, (1834-1892). He had a seminary for would be preachers in the Church he pastored. He had a strong viewpoint about his students learning to read well from The Scriptures. He believed God's Word was what people needed to hear from the pulpit, therefore, for those who were poor readers, they were to receive special attention in order for them to clearly present the truths from The Bible. That's not so much of a problem in today's world. While we may want to find excuses for not paying attention to the hearing of God's Word, the problem is mostly much closer than we would like to admit. Yes. I know. I use it perhaps way too much but as our pastor likes to say, "If the shoe fits buy a pair in every color." The saying I'm talking about is this one from the song that was first published in 1925 in the Book of American Negro Spirituals: "Not my brother, Not my sister, but, it's me oh Lord standing in the need of prayer." I can tell you this, by experience, my friend: With God's help that's one excuse we can do something about: me, myself, and I. Amen.

"I finally got eight hours of sleep. It took me three days but whatever." — Unknown

Hello everybody and welcome back to this episode of the long running series which at times has been summed up as, "Really?" Thanks for showing up on this Monday, June 15, 2026. I am a little late climbing the stairs today because I accompanied the wife of my youth for her CPAP breathing apparatus fitting. They have made quite a few improvements since I was fitted for mine around 10 years ago. She essentially got a brand new Cadillac Escalade and I believe the one they gave me had to have been a used 1960's VW. Ha! The technician said I was due a new unit if I needed one. That caused me to think some. If I get a new one and I use it as much as I do the old one, well, I might not want to create any waves. Just saying. However, here's where I am coming from. I need to use one. I do. I really do. However, I need it to be 100% without any requirement on my part. I'm not trying to be difficult. I am expressing my need here. So, please be kind. I need one that pretty much does everything it should do without me having to do anything. Period. Nothing. Zero. You say they don't work that way even with the newer models, and, I say, why not? Surely there's a market for people like myself. You what? You hope not. I asked for understanding and kindness. All those face fitting adjustments and having to sleep a certain way, come on, man! At any rate, the wife should see some good results because she is much better at following instructions than I am. I did learn a few things from the technician working with her. For instance, the unit and its components need to be cleaned weekly. I didn't know that. I was following my own instinct. You know when the distilled water container turned green I knew it should be rinsed out. Ha! The way he described the weekly cleaning protocol, well, it's enough to keep one awake at night. Know what I mean? Good!

 

And, I quickly add how I am not poking fun at those who are helped to get much needed rest while sleeping. I was just laughing out loud, mostly at myself. I do that. A lot. In fact, the older I get it is the more material I find right here in my own skin. I share some of it, but, if I were to reveal much more, well, you would think I most likely need professional help. And, you would be very much correct in that assessment. I do need help. I need help every second of every minute of my time here on the planet. In short, I need the Lord God of Heaven. What say you? Here are twenty random verses that pertain to God as our Helper:  Deuteronomy 31:6 "Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you." /Deuteronomy 33:26 "There is none like God, O Jeshurun, who rides through the heavens to your help, through the skies in his majesty." /Deuteronomy 33:29 "Happy are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord, the shield of your help, and the sword of your triumph! Your enemies shall come fawning to you, and you shall tread upon their backs." /2 Chronicles 14:11 "And Asa cried to the Lord his God, 'O Lord, there is none like you to help, between the mighty and the weak. Help us, O Lord our God, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this multitude. O Lord, you are our God; let not man prevail against you.'" /Psalm 37:40 "The Lord helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him." /Psalm 40:17 "As for me, I am poor and needy, but the Lord takes thought for me. You are my help and my deliverer; do not delay, O my God!" /Psalm 46:1 "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." /Psalm 60:11 "Oh, grant us help against the foe, for vain is the salvation of man!" /Psalm 73:26 "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." /Psalm 118:7 "The Lord is on my side as my helper; I shall look in triumph on those who hate me." /Psalm 121:2 "My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth." Psalm 124:8 "Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth." /Isaiah 41:13 "For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, 'Fear not, I am the one who helps you." /Zechariah 4:6 Then he said to me, 'This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.'" /John 14:26 "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you." /Romans 8:31 "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" /1 Corinthians 10:13 "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it." /Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through him who strengthens me." /Hebrews 13:5–6 "Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.' So we can confidently say, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?'" /1 Peter 5:10 "And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you." (Quoted from the English Standard Version ESV) One thing I am sure of, the words I write may be fallible BUT those from the Word of God, the Bible, they are always infallible, always and forever. Amen.

"I prefer radio to TV because the pictures are better." - Alistair Cooke

New photo of my blog assistant.

We made it folks. We did. Give your self a round of applause because we made it to Friday, June 12, 2026. Those who have followed me for any length of time know how much I enjoy listening to old time radio or as they say, ear paintings from yesteryear. On our way back from Louisiana the wife was able to use her phone to tune in to some recorded series from back in the 1940's. She put them on the radio in the car and the ones she chose were back to back detective programs from popular series back in the day. I do get into listening and seeing what I conjure up as the program progresses. I even enjoy the commercials, typically, for products that no longer exists. I did become so focused on one episode of the show starring the master detective Nero Wolfe that I nearly ran through a red light. I did stop but I will admit I was slightly jutting out into the intersection. That prompted my riding partner to take immediate action to end my listening enjoyment. I will have to dream up my own ending to that particular program because she informed me that running red lights was not to be tolerated. She did. She really did. I was so nice about it. I don't think I even reminded her of her recent black out spell where she actually hit another driver. I was so kind not to even mention it. The radio programs cause an interesting thing to occur. One has to think and imagine the action taking place. Orson Welles called it the theater of the mind. And, that it is. There are literally hundreds of preserved recordings of old time radio programs on a variety of streaming platforms. Check them out. I leave the subject with this comment: "I have long thought, and still think, that radio is magic. Television is OK, but radio is magic. If television had been invented first and then radio had come along, people would think, 'What a wonderful thing this radio is! It's like television except you don't have to look at it!'" ~Charles Osgood, 1989

 

I visit by phone with our eldest nearly every day. We talk about all that's going on in his world including the work world where it is always challenging. One of the things I gather from our daily discussions is how the more things change it is the more they stay the same. Technology may change but people issues which are still the heart of any operation, well, they are just that, people issues. So much of what he deals with seem to be identical to things I've dealt with in the past, you know, been there and done that. One of the things I try to do is to input some learned wisdom since I no longer deal with the workplace. What kind of wisdom? For me, it has to do with me being more understanding, less judgemental, and, perhaps being more flexible. People have been people since God created Adam. And, I quickly add they have been fallen people, born sinners, since Adam chose to listen to Eve. That's just the truth, period. (Read the first three chapters in the Book of Genesis.) Because of that, I think perhaps in my many years of managing people I could have offered a more caring spirit when dealing with people issues. I also could have remembered me, myself, and I, when others failed to hit the mark, so to speak. You know. Live and learn. I can't go back and change some of the ways I handled things, but, I can pass down some of what I have learned. One example. I told him the other day what a fellow manager said to me one day, "Buddy, I like you and you have a great reputation, but, sometimes you need to think about this: Who died and left you in charge?" That helped me. Humility will go a long way folks. It will. It really will. And, it happens to occupy much within the pages of God's Holy Word. It does. It really does. Y'all enjoy your Friday, Saturday, and, make an effort on the First Day of the Week, Sunday, to show up at the meeting place where believers gather to worship the Lord and learn more from His Word. Amen.

John Knox, Scottish minister and noted Christian writer, (1514-1572), uttered these piercing words and then died, "Live in Christ, die in Christ, and the flesh need not fear death."

Well, surprise, surprise, I am back here at the ole blogger ranch where me, myself, and I, along with Lil Miss Biscuit are doing our best to embrace this new day, Thursday, June 11, 2026, and, being sure to thank God for it. We had traveled to the east side of Shreveport, Louisiana, to visit a dear friend of the wife who is nearing the end of her journey here on the planet. The story of how they became friends is somewhat convoluted, but, I will give it a short overview. This lady's husband and I began working together in the early 1970's. Somewhere along the way, the wife met his wife, and, that was it. It was. It really was. They became bosom buddies and while he and I worked on many projects together, our relationship was predominately business and professional. He and I worked together for over twenty years. He left the company due to a medical issue and life continued for both our families. She is now 89 and he is 85 and our time with them yesterday was something heart wrenching but also very special. I had not seen them in over 30 years, however, the wife had been stopping by occasionally on her way back from visiting and helping to take care of her brother. It was hard for the wife to say so long for now to her dear friend and we were able to pray with her husband as he is the caretaker and the situation is very challenging. There's so much more to our story because of the long association but it reminds us all how that this life is fleeting and we all should make certain we are ready to go at any moment, and, we do that by giving our heart and life to God's provision for salvation, His one and only Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. 

 

We came back home because looking at the amount of time it was only about an hour more to cross over into Texas and travel down through east Texas to get back home. In fact, we were able to make choir practice since we were passing by that way. How does all of that impact old people? I woke up this morning sitting straight up in the recliner with my glasses and my boots still on. The wife said I was sleeping so soundly she didn't have the heart to wake me up. That is where we came up with the saying, "I will not need to be rocked to sleep tonight."  At any rate, I woke up feeling a wee bit achy but refreshed and ready to get out there and go again. Well, not too far this time. Please. We do have the old people's choir practice this morning and then we will be meeting many of the other old folks from our local assembly to have lunch at that wonderful place for old people to gather, that's right, Luby's. And, don't tell anyone because it will be a huge surprise, there just might be a spontaneous song being heard at that gathering. I think they call it a flashmob, but, we will have to show up to see. Remember, I wrote about the importance of showing up a few days ago. I did. I really did. Take care now, you hear. And, may God add His blessings. Amen.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ~ GOD’S WORD Translation ~ "Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Whatever happens, give thanks, because it is God’s will in Christ Jesus that you do this."

Good morning and welcome to the early edition of today's insights into this, that, and the other. Thanks for showing up on this Tuesday, June 9, 2026. I will not be publishing a blog tomorrow or on Thursday because the wife of my youth and I are traveling to Louisiana to visit a very ill lady who has been a special close friend to the wife for around 50 years. Please pray for this dear lady and her husband at this most difficult time. God knows all about it. We had our men's Bible study at 7 a.m. this morning. I have my first actual physical therapy exercise visit at 10 a.m. Hey, I remember it well when they said, "Hey, go ahead and retire, you've done your 60 plus years, enjoy all that free time." This afternoon we leave for our travel. It's around a six hour drive which used to be nothing, not even a drop in the bucket. These days we break it up if possible so we will stop at the wife's sister's place and spend the night and then get up early Wednesday and travel on. On the way back we will do the same thing.  

I will close up shop early today since my physical therapist has plans for me. I have been doing some of the exercises she gave me and it has actually helped my mobility some while at the same time it hurts like ole billy heck. Yeah. I have heard that one, no pain, no gain. Oh well. It is what it is, and, we will see how it all goes. I will keep you posted. While I am at it, thanks so much for all of you out there who stay in touch by reading my daily postings. I do appreciate the feedback and the support. I do. I really do. In our early Tuesday morning men's Bible study we are going through the letter written by the Apostle Paul to the local called out assembly meeting in Ephesus, Greece. Ephesians. We covered the first part of the first chapter today. Wow! It tells about how believers are guaranteed a certain future in Christ, and, we have the Holy Spirit living in us to make sure it all comes to pass. And, as Mark Lowry likes to say we all love the 'it came to pass' because it means it didn't come to stay. Amen? Yes and Amen. Have a great rest of the day and I will see y'all, Lord willing, come next Friday morning. Amen.

 

 

"What’s the secret to having a smoking hot body in old age? Cremation." ~ Readers Digest online

Good morning and welcome to the second day of this brand new week that God has allowed us to wake up and seek Him and His provision on this Monday, June 8, 2026. One of the things you hear much about from older folks is their experiences as they seek to interact with those providing their health care. I've been writing these blogs since the summer of 2007 and I betcha that truth could be validated in my own writings. By comparison, I most likely wrote very little about health care earlier in my sojourn. At the same time I have killed a lot of keystrokes writing about my nearly 25 year battle with Type 2 Diabetes. Today, as I near the road sign marked 80, I spend a fair amount of my waking hours chasing down a variety of medical specialties, and, that gives old people something to talk about. It's like two ladies in the waiting room sharing all the gory details of their most recent surgeries. My primary care for several years recently retired. I have a new one. My old primary care told me that getting my prescriptions authorized by the new doctor should not be a problem. Wait just a cotton picking minute! So, today I get to meet, live and in person, my new primary care because they want to see me before rubber stamping my prescription renewals. No problem. I don't have a need to see him but they have a need to see me. See? My wife has seen him already and she has already built a rapport with him. They had a follow up via teleconference the other day and I heard them laughing it up. Really? The first challenge will be to get his name even close. Dr. Phetsamong Nhonthachit is his name. My pulmonologist told me to think about it like 'no-touch-it' said together, Dr. Notouchit. Oh well, I mention all of this because it is how days are often defined for older people. It seems we find ourselves always getting ready to get ready....and so it goes. Welcome to my world. 

 

I mentioned that stereotypical comment about the two ladies sharing their surgery stories, well, move over ladies, because older men, (full disclosure requires me to say I are one.), they are not in the least bit reticent when it comes to sharing their medical stories. I will say this about how things go in today's world. I spend a fair amount of time in waiting rooms. That used to produce a plethora of stories in the wide ranging conversations being exchanged. Not so much anymore. Why? If there is a WIFI signal, everyone is looking at their phone screen instead of blabbing stuff to their neighbor. I still get some great material from time to time as the wisdom of Yogi Berra helps, "You can observe a lot by watching." If you don't know who Yogi Berri is, maybe you should try one of those blogs devoted to pets. Joking only. I've said before and will say again, being in the waiting room often reminds me of how blessed I am. My heart typically breaks for the little ones who appear to be dealing with serious health challenges. Look the other way? No. Pray for them as you see them and seek God's provision on their behalf. Sure. There's some funny stuff too. Old people going to the wrong door when they hear their name called, the elderly wife mothering her husband can produce some gems, and, then, I saved the last because it is the one I know the most about. Me. I actually have thought about who it might be that will look at me and find something to write about in their blog. I also get to see the joy on many faces when I hand them one of my Santa Claus photo cards. Kids. Yes. But, I quickly add, kids of all ages. Okay. That should be enough, already. Right? Y'all have yourselves a great day and may God add His blessings. Amen. 

Early in my Santa journey I learned a universal truth: You cannot please everyone, no matter how hard you try!

 

 

Flashback to Friday, June 5, 2009 (My thoughts some 6,209 days ago.)

Admit it, we are all swimming in the deep end of the culture pool!

 

What’s your all time most memorable commercial? No doubt you have one that sticks in your mind. It may be dated since many new ones come on the scene each year but we all have been inundated with hundreds of thousands of video, print, voice over, signs, and every form of advertisement imaginable, that is, if we have breathed air on this planet. While we might like to think this bombardment has not influenced us, we would be kidding ourselves to try and defend that position. This particular feature of the culture war is what I have before me on this Friday, June 5, 2009. Not surprising, a recent top ten vote for most popular commercials by USA Today included two beer commercials, three cola ad spots, the famous “Got Milk?” promotions, and the burger “Where’s the beef?” campaign.

However, the ad chosen number one by a wide majority was not that familiar to me. It is one put up by Monster.com in 1999 that runs black and white footage of children talking about what they want to be when they grow up. Each child in the commercial speaks about a particular underachieving goal as their passion in life and at the end the punch line is how that Monster.com has a better job and future for every person. I watched the ad and remembered it but it certainly would not have made my top ten. My list would include the recently resurrected “See the USA in a Chevrolet!” by Dinah Shore, (Sadly, it is being played now as a swan song for the GM bankruptcy.); the “Plop Plop, Fizz, Fizz, oh what a relief it is!” Alka Seltzer ad along with another one where the fellow says, “I can’t believe I ate the whole thing!” (These ads may have appealed to me because it was back in the days when we didn't know that indigestion needed some very expensive medication for an ailment called acid reflux!) These are all from the past and I am too, but, brand identity does end up being a part of the life we live especially in this commercialized world.

Jesus told us to be in this world but not be of this world. (See John 17 and 1st John 5.) That’s one of the toughest challenges you and I will ever face. The incessant drumbeat of all things worldly surrounds us and our children every second of every day. To say otherwise is to do the proverbial ostrich head in the sand maneuver. We may think it cute for our little ones to be able to sing the latest beer tunes and quote the less than wholesome memorable lines from TV ads but there is a corrosive element to all of this and as the old saying goes, “The steady knock does wear the rock.” Seeing it for what it is goes a long way in beginning to form a response to try and fulfill the admonition of our Lord. We can’t escape the deluge of commercialized media but we can do all we can do to offset it, to reduce its influence, to change the channel, or whatever is needed to deal with this issue. I’m not saying you can do what the old Pepsodent ad proclaimed, “You will wonder where the yellow went when you brush your teeth with Pepsodent!” But you can do what you can do with God’s help. This is some food for thought as we enter our Saturday and Lord’s Day Sunday. May God help each one as we deal with the life we have! Amen. ….More later.

"Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things." — Charles Dickens

Here's how my day is going thus far. I had written what I considered to be a good blog, but, at the last minute I decided to hold it back for another day. Sometimes it just goes like that. Therefore, I am sitting here thinking about today, the one given to us by our Heavenly Father, this one in particular, Thursday, June 4, 2026. I didn't want to be in a situation where I wished I could have unsaid something, if you catch my drift, so, I am moving on to another subject for today. Today's admonition in the verse given in the title image does not mean that we are thankful for everything that happens to us, but, rather, we give thanks in every situation because we know God is still our Father and it is will for us to have a thankful spirit. Some theologians distinguish between being thankful in all situations versus being thankful for all that happens. This is a great test of our faith because no matter the circumstance we know that we know that God is still on His throne and we are still His child, therefore, even in the midst of turmoil or chaos we have something to be thankful for. There are even times when some have come to believe their great challenge while tragic was actually a stepping stone in their walk with God. The renowned pastor/teacher Dr. J. Vernon Magee when his 'Through the Bible' radio program was at its peak, he came down with cancer. This was a crippling development in his life. As he was unable for some time to do his programs and as he often lay on his sick bed he became aware of something. That 'Through the Bible' program had become a worldwide phenomenon and Magee was taking credit for it being successful. He repented and gave it all to God because he came to know it was God at work not Magee and he had been the instrument in the hands of The Almighty. He gained remission and returned with a new perspective that changed it all. It was God's Word, it was God's provision, it was God at work, and, He deserved the honor and glory involved in reaching the lost around the globe. Period. Cancer became something Magee was thankful for in the sense that God used it to get his attention and to change him. Was he happy to get cancer? No. Did he enjoy all the medical procedures and treatments? No. Was he able to see God's hand in it all? Yes, and, Amen. Dr. Mcgee passed away in 1988. Yet, he is still preaching and teaching 24x7 through God's Through the Bible radio program which airs on over 800 terrestrial radio stations across the U.S. and Canada. In addition to these radio outlets, the global ministry broadcasts in over 100 languages and dialects to more than 160 countries. As the old preacher I grew up hearing used to say, "Ain't God good?" Yes, and Amen.

 

I know how easy it is for anyone to become discouraged living life where things can be at times overwhelming. How do I know that? Been there, done that, too many times to count. We can talk about how people rise to the occasion, they buckle down and persevere. While that's commendable it is different than having God as an ever present help in our time of need. (Psalm 46:1) I think about how unpredictable things are in this life. They are. They really are. I will not catalog again all the tragedies our family has faced over the past seventy plus years, but, there were enough to go around. The following song has become a staple in our family. It has been sung time and time again in our gatherings as a local called out assembly, and, in our personal times of reflection and worship. It has been very often sung at the home going service of one of our loved ones. It reminds us all of some important truths:

 

I Know Who Holds Tomorrow 

 

I don't know about tomorrow;
I just live from day to day.
I don't borrow from its sunshine
For its skies may turn to grey.
I don't worry o'er the future,
For I know what Jesus said.
And today I'll walk beside Him,
For He knows what lies ahead.

 

Many things about tomorrow
I don't seem to understand
But I know who holds tomorrow
And I know who holds my hand.

 

Every step is getting brighter
As the golden stairs I climb;
Every burden's getting lighter,
Every cloud is silver-lined.
There the sun is always shining,
There no tear will dim the eye;
At the ending of the rainbow
Where the mountains touch the sky.

 

Many things about tomorrow
I don't seem to understand
But I know who holds tomorrow
And I know who holds my hand.

 

I don't know about tomorrow;
It may bring me poverty.
But the one who feeds the sparrow,
Is the one who stands by me.
And the path that is my portion
May be through the flame or flood;
But His presence goes before me
And I'm covered with His blood.

Many things about tomorrow
I don't seem to understand
But I know who holds tomorrow
And I know who holds my hand.

 

Music and Lyrics by Ira Stanphill (1950)

You can look that one up on YouTube and find it recorded by dozens of folks. And, there is a great story behind the writing of that song so Google the song and the writer to read about it. My grandfather could not sing a lick, in tune. However, I've seen him singing and swaying many times to that song with tears rolling down his face. He knew about troubles and trials, but, even greater, he knew Who held his hand. Amen.

The potential: "Physical therapy restores movement, reduces pain, and empowers lasting independence. Evidence shows that over \(90\%\) of patients report an overall improvement in their quality of life post-treatment. " ~ copied

Okay. I did it. I went for my physical therapy evaluation. Yesterday morning. Today, the day after, is Wednesday, June 3, 2026, and I welcome each one tuning in from around the globe. That's not an exaggeration, because I've given you the stats before from the views coming in from sea to shining sea. Essentially, as it relates to the potential for physical therapy help, well, it's like that joke I shared a few days ago. The older horse fell down and this is what the horse said, "I've fallen and I can't giddyup!" Fortunately, the folks at the physical therapy place didn't send me packing after my first encounter and I appreciate that which no doubt the insurance payment for their services also had something to do with it. Ha! I know. That cynical side of me is one that I have to deal with all the time. At any rate, here's what I know based on how this first session went. The lady therapist interviewed me. Me, the potential patient, interviewed her. She did all the measurements and had me attempt various postures in order to evaluate how pitiful I am. I did reasonably okay for the shape I am in, except for the balance stuff that I failed miserably. I used that word failed because it is related to the word fall and that's what I would very much like to avoid. She then explained how they could help in the variety of areas where I need help. That was the sales pitch and their ability to accomplish the strengthening goals works best if I would be able to visit them twice per week. She also provided me with illustrated pictures of the stretches I should do at home. Okay. A lot to take in and a lot to consider. As for her, she has been working as a professional therapist for four years. She holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy certificate after finishing seven years of education and training. She is married, no children, but they do have two dogs they treat like children. She was very professional, very focused, and very positive about what they could do to help. I go back next week and while I remain somewhat skeptical, we will see. The exercises we did for the evaluation made for a lasting memory especially when I laid myself down to sleep. It was like the kids song:

 

Old man me had a pain, E-I-E-I-O!
And on his way to trying to sleep, he had another pain, E-I-E-I-O!
With a pain-pain here and a pain-pain there,
Here a pain, there a pain, everywhere a pain-pain,
Old man me had a pain, E-I-E-I-O!

 

I felt like some out there somewhere could likely identify with that little ditty of a song. Hey. I hope you don't think I am complaining. And, even more so I hope I am not. Why? Blessed. That's why. I am blessed. I really can't think of anyone more undeserving of the grace and mercy of God than the fellow living in my skin, the one I often refer to as the unholy trinity, me, myself, and I. And, I quickly add I am thankful for God's mercy, His grace, His sacrifice, and His Presence, and, as the Scripture says, "While I was yet a sinner, He died for me." (my own personalization of Romans 5:8). Okay. I need to wrap it up for today and get ready to think about thinking about those stretching exercises. You know. The ones given to me by that wee child therapist. Y'all, remember to thank God for His provision. His answered prayers and even those He didn't answer in the way we thought they should be responded to. Why? He knows best. Always and forever, He knows best. Amen.

"Dogs teach us how to be better humans. They model unconditional love, forgiveness, and the simple joy of living completely in the present moment. By observing our pets, we learn to let go of grudges, appreciate the small things, and communicate the power of empathy without words." ~ From The Artificial Intelligence Overview on Google Search

Hello and welcome to another edition where I spin the wheel and land on whatever subject or idea happens to pop up. Today is Tuesday, June 2, 2026, and, I am very happy to be up and going on this, another day gifted to us by our Great God. I chose that photo of the wife of my youth with Lil Miss Biscuit when Biscuit was just a mere puppy. The more the wife acts like she doesn't want Biscuit to mess with her it is the more that Biscuit pours on her idea of love and caring. Biscuit is intentional and persistent in loving even those who profess not to want her near them. I told you before that our doggy sometimes can teach us all a lesson. Or, at least she sure does teach me. Maybe not others, but, if God can speak through a donkey to a hireling prophet, and, if time and time again God uses other animals to illustrate an important spiritual truth, well, we shouldn't be surprised when one close to us just happens to remind us of a biblical illustration. You think I'm just talking out of the top of my head? Okay. Here are but a few animals from The Scriptures and I remind us all that God as Creator of all things can use any and all of His created world to communicate as He pleases. He can. He really can. 

These are but a few of the animals we find in the Bible that help us to visualize and understand the truth being communicated. There are so many others. And, it's not restricted to animal life because as I said before, God can use any and all of His created world to communicate truth, therefore, I will leave you with one that is a beautiful example and there are dozens more, so go check them out. 

Here is a passage I thought of that goes with the chosen illustration:

 

Psalm 1 (New Living Translation, NLT)

¹ Oh, the joys of those who do not
    follow the advice of the wicked,
    or stand around with sinners,
    or join in with mockers.
² But they delight in the law of the Lord,
    meditating on it day and night.
³ They are like trees planted along the riverbank,
    bearing fruit each season.
Their leaves never wither,
    and they prosper in all they do.

⁴ But not the wicked!
    They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind.
⁵ They will be condemned at the time of judgment.
    Sinners will have no place among the godly.
⁶ For the Lord watches over the path of the godly,
    but the path of the wicked leads to destruction.

 

Like a tree planted by the waters, that's what we want to be. You can read for a long time all that has been written about that particular Psalm or song, but, when it comes down to it, I think most of us can get its meaning for ourselves. It's clear enough. It is. It really is. There's no gotcha here, just, some sharing. You know, one beggar telling other beggars where they can find bread. Amen.

“By faith, we understand that the universe has been framed by the word of God, so that what is seen has not been made out of things which are visible." ~ (Hebrews 11:3)

Welcome back. Speaking of back, I have an evaluation session with a physical therapist tomorrow. How in the world do you like that? It is Monday, June 1, 2026, and, I am still trying to come up with some good information to share with a physical therapist. So far, the only one that makes a lot of sense is the old Hee Haw joke, "It hurts when I do that.", the punch line response, "Then don't do that." I'm a little perplexed. Yes. I know. That is normal but I'm perhaps a wee bit more so regarding this upcoming evaluation. The reason I can't do things like I want to do things, the reason I am a little unsteady, the reason I have to do some thinking before I move around, well, it has to do with pain. Almost any movement at all sets my hips and legs on fire. I suppose I have in mind how physical therapy might just do the same. Oh my! My insurance provider contracted me out to a physical therapy company. When I talked to the lady on the phone she said not to worry because it will be just like working with your primary provider. Really? If that is so, why in the world did the physical therapy people make me fill out endless questionnaires? Most of that information is readily available from my primary provider. They even wanted to know quite a bit about my mental status. Join the club Bubba! I may need to get some folks to vouch for my saneness. Just joking. The real question I have is simply this: If the reason I am experiencing pain when I stand or walk, is it due to a medical issue or something the workout folks can help with? Meanwhile, I noticed the other day one of those motorized shopping carts. It was a brand new unit sitting out in the parking lot. I had never really paid much attention to this type of transportation, but, that baby was sleek and it looked like it would fly down those aisles. Please know I am kidding.  A little. Maybe, just a smidgen. Ha!

 

A lot of what I write about is tongue-in-cheek while typically there is a kernel of truth in there, somewhere. That's not the case when it comes to referring to or quoting from the God breathed texts compiled in The Bible. The Bible impacts people's lives, for time and eternity. Here are some random quotes from a variety of people writing things about the truth and efficacy of The Scriptures:

 

~ The Bible is not an end in itself, but a means to bring men to an intimate and satisfying knowledge of God, that they may enter into Him, that they may delight in His Presence, may taste and know the inner sweetness of the very God Himself in the core and center of their hearts. — A. W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God 

~ The primary purpose of reading the Bible is not to know the Bible but to know God. — James Merritt

~ I’ve experienced His presence in the deepest hell that man can create. . . . I have tested the promises of the Bible, and believe me, you can count on them. — Corrie ten Boom

~ Want to hear God speak? Read your Bible. Want to hear God speak audibly? Read your Bible out loud! — Justin Peters

~ I have sometimes seen more in a line of the Bible than I could well tell how to stand under, and yet at another time the whole Bible hath been to me as dry as a stick. — John Bunyan

~ I am convinced that a prayerless approach to God’s Word is a major reason for the low-level dissatisfaction that hums beneath the surface of our lives. — Matt Smethhurst 

~ The Bible is something more than a body of revealed truths, a collection of books verbally inspired by God. It is also the living voice of God. The living God speaks through its pages. Therefore, it is not to be valued as a sacred object to be placed on a shelf and neglected, but as holy ground, where people’s hearts and minds may come into vital contact with the living, gracious, and disturbing God. For a proper perspective on Scripture and for a valid understanding of revelation, there must be constant interworking of these factors; an infallible and authoritative Word, the activity of the Holy Spirit in interpreting and applying that Word, and a receptive human heart. No true knowledge of God takes place without these elements. — James Montgomery Boice

~ God’s way is perfect and his Word is flawless. A perfect God could have nothing less than perfect communication with his people. It is we who read hastily, skip prayer, and fail to meditate on his Word, who find it confusing. — Tim Keller

~ When asked, ‘What is more important: prayer or reading the Bible?’ I ask, ‘What is more important: breathing in or breathing out?’” — Charles Spurgeon

~ The Bible redirects my will, cleanses my emotions, enlightens my mind, and quickens my total being.  — E Stanley Jones

~ We speak only to the degree we are spoken to. . . . Our prayers should arise out of immersion in the Scripture. — Tim Keller

The Bible is powerful and able to change your life from the inside out. No other means is given by God to accomplish such a task. The Spirit of God, who is at work in the hearts of Christians, uses the Word of God to transform them into Christlike people. — Nate Pickowicz

~ [People] do not reject the Bible because it contradicts itself but because it contradicts them. — E. Paul Hovey

~ In our prayers we talk to God, in our Bible study God talks to us, and we had better let God do most of the talking. — D.L. Moody

The Bible is a vein of pure gold, unalloyed by quartz or any earthly substance. This is a star without a speck; a sun without a blot; a light without darkness; a moon without its paleness; a glory without a dimness. O Bible! It cannot be said of any other book that it is perfect and pure; but of thee we can declare all wisdom is gathered up in thee, without a particle of folly. This is the judge that ends the strife, where wit and reason fail. This is the book untainted by any error; but is pure, unalloyed, perfect truth. — Charles Spurgeon

~ The Bible—banned, burned, beloved. More widely read, more frequently attacked than any other book in history. Generations of intellectuals have attempted to discredit it; dictators of every age have outlawed it and executed those who read it. Yet soldiers carry it into battle believing it more powerful than their weapons. Fragments of it smuggled into solitary prison cells have transformed ruthless killers into gentle saints. — Charles Colson

~ The Bible is authoritative on everything of which it speaks. Moreover, it speaks of everything. — Cornelius Van Til

~ Here then, is the real problem of our negligence. We fail in our duty to study God’s Word not so much because it is difficult to understand, not so much because it is dull and boring, but because it is work. Our problem is not a lack of intelligence or a lack of passion. Our problem is that we are lazy. — R.C. Sproul

 

I looked up the names of those I was not familiar with before sharing their quotes about the Bible, and, they all seem to be well grounded, while, at the same time their ideas do not carry the same import as The Scriptures themselves. I think you most likely get where I am coming from. Right? Good. Take care and I'll let you know my schedule for becoming 'buff'. I know. That train left a long time ago. Until next time, may God add His blessings. Amen. 

“I am an old man and have known a great many troubles, but most of them never happened.” ~ Mark Twain

Welcome to the Friday edition where I will be dealing with subjects reflecting this, that, and the other. You've noticed that? Good. It is already May 29, 2026, and, this year, is passing so quickly it almost seems like I should be sitting outside in a lawn chair with my walking cane held up in the air while hollering at the passing cars to slow down. I will not put that one of the bucket list I do not have but I will, from time to time, consider it as an alternative to other stereotypical activities. Back to the concept behind my blog. I saw a word I had never seen or known about. That shouldn't be hard to consider when linguists suggest there's somewhere around one million words to choose from in the English language. Here's the word I was talking about, farrago. It means: A highly confused mixture or hodgepodge of different things. Sentence example: My blog is often a farrago of accumulated information packets. Yay! I think I have found my calling. There are times when I feel I can claim title to some of these explanations for my status: Not the brightest bulb in the chandelier / Not the sharpest knife in the drawer; The lights are on, but nobody’s home; A sandwich short of a picnic; Bless his heart, he's a little slow on the uptake; Off in the weeds; Not playing with a full deck; Off in his own little world; Out to lunch; Spaced out; and, Not with it. I report you decide. I may try to write something incorporating all of those idioms and sayings. The joke is on me and as so often has been said, "I resemble that remark." Ha!

 

The Mark Twain quote used in the title is interesting. Recent studies confirm that 85% to 91% of the things people worry about never actually happen. Furthermore, for the remaining 10–15% that do occur, research reveals that people handle the situations much better than expected, meaning only about 3% of worries are ever truly justified. The Creator knows the most about people since He created people. Duh! He also knew that we would, as fallen sinful creatures, we would be prone to worry. And, even as believers we can fall into the worry trap. Therefore, here are some verses He inspired to help those who have put their faith in Him but still deal with this very common but faithless inclination: Philippians 4:6-7  "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." ~ 1 Peter 5:7  "Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you." ~ Proverbs 12:25  "Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad." ~ Matthew 6:25-34  "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. ..." ~ John 14:27  ~ "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." ~ Isaiah 41:10 ~ "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Verses quoted from the English Standard Version, ESV.) That, my friend, is but a sample. There are dozens more. Be encouraged. God is with you. Stay tuned for the next coming attraction. (That's only an empty promise at the moment because right now I have nothing.) May God bless each one. Amen. 

"Showing up to church anchors your faith by placing you in a community for mutual encouragement, provides consistent spiritual nourishment through shared teaching, and allows you to actively use your unique gifts to support others. " ~ copied

Give yourself a round of applause. Why? Best I can tell, you and me, at least when I was writing this, well, we are able to get up and function, and, let me correct my greeting: For that and so much more, Give God the Glory! Amen. I welcome you on this Thursday, May 28, 2026, and, I bid you greetings from my upstairs office aka the ole blogger ranch. Why is it called that? Who knows? I started calling it that a long time ago and since I've never lived or worked on a ranch, it must be a figment of my imagination. I found that photo above and perhaps that's what I had in mind. Perhaps not. At any rate, thanks so much for showing up today. Showing up is an important concept. While I am not a big fan of Psychology Today, here is one of their comments: "Showing up is the foundation of success and connection. It means being reliably present, overcoming internal resistance, and engaging consistently. This simple yet radical act builds deep trust, unlocks unforeseen opportunities, and proves to yourself and others that you genuinely care." That's not a bad way to see how important it is to show up. In the home, at school, in the workplace, and most importantly, showing up in the pursuit of obedience to God as the first priority in our life. I think about the husband of Mary, the mother of Jesus, whose name was Joseph. Joseph showed up when it counted. In the very last mention of Joseph in the New Testament account, we read how he led his family in keeping the commandments of Jehovah God, Luke 2: 41, "Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the Passover." This was their practice of religious duty. Every year. Journey to Jerusalem. Obeying God's command. Joseph showed up in his pattern of leadership within his family. I think back about how many times I showed up but not for the most important things. I missed out on way too many of the activities that impacted our kids, but, I always showed up at the workplace. In fact, one time I was in a wreck on the way into work and because I wasn't there when everyone arrived, someone suggested they should check the funeral homes. Showing up is important. Showing up for the most important is the challenge we all face. Okay. I'm not 100% sure where all that came from but if no one else needed to read it, I'm sure there is at least one trio that did, me, myself, and I. Amen.

 

It doesn't help me to say I wish I could go back but it does help those who are still making choices that impact their testimony and influence for the Lord. One of the things the older can do is to pass on their experiences, including their failures, to help those coming up behind them. By the way, the older teaching the younger is a Bible truth. It is. It really is. You can read about it in various places in the Scriptures but there is a specific writing dedicated to this concept in the letter the Apostle Paul wrote to Titus, Chapter 2, Verses 1-10. There is a danger associated with those who refuse the wisdom and advice of their elders. I think about the situation that happened when Solomon died. (1st Kings 12, and 2nd Chronicles 10-12) His kingship was passed on to his son Rehoboam. The white haired elders gave advice to Rehoboam but he decided to reject their words and instead he chose to listen to his young peers. The results were disastrous and it resulted in the kingdom being divided, ten tribes to the north, leaving him with two to reign over in the south. I actually saw a modern example of this very situation played out in a company. I was an eyewitness to it. Me. It played out in an almost identical scenario and it included the same outcome in results that were truly tragic. But, that's a story I've already told here in this space some time ago, but, it's worth telling again and I will do that, one day soon. Us older folks may not be cool or in the know, but, we are positioned by God to offer advice as we close out our time here on the planet. May we seek to honor God in all we pass on. These are some things to think about. They are. They really are. Amen.