tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90048431395480869752024-02-19T10:23:11.949-06:00WordProverbSheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.comBlogger223125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-19576178203927164272023-02-18T09:10:00.000-06:002023-02-18T09:10:02.963-06:00Watch "Crowder - Come As You Are (Lyric Video)" on YouTube<p>A song for your enjoyment and pleasure. Earth has no sorrow that heaven can't heal.<br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://youtu.be/yjgioXrnEME" rel="nofollow"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uvjvSDk8T5M" width="320" youtube-src-id="uvjvSDk8T5M"></iframe></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><br /><p><br /></p>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-54770043372712217012022-11-16T20:07:00.170-06:002023-02-18T10:16:00.069-06:00God Reveals<p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p class="MsoNormal">Why bother reading the Bible? And especially for the non-believer.<br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKxvipLHJdfsSGB1bKvrPy8rTxoVU6IklevTcobPjYLH9046KV6U9Em8Ur3GDbsPB68S9azB7m42mCkRsNfo6pBmelzlR9t5L8htqlzR5hv06oR6wv6JSI0H55YorInXIka3CubEDwkotHbj1iuEdIqVV8lsNvMkA5Crgqptw9-XG6y1idwL0Aclplmw/s1965/Samuel%203.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1965" data-original-width="1802" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKxvipLHJdfsSGB1bKvrPy8rTxoVU6IklevTcobPjYLH9046KV6U9Em8Ur3GDbsPB68S9azB7m42mCkRsNfo6pBmelzlR9t5L8htqlzR5hv06oR6wv6JSI0H55YorInXIka3CubEDwkotHbj1iuEdIqVV8lsNvMkA5Crgqptw9-XG6y1idwL0Aclplmw/w183-h200/Samuel%203.jpg" width="183" /></a></div>First off, all the usual. The Bible is full of wisdom, strong
life lessons and philosophy. But… there are plenty of books that teach
wholesome living and morals. Books that don’t go into all the mystery of
God. What good would reading the bible do for a
non-believer when there are plenty other easier to read books?<p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Because…<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">God
reveals himself through the Word.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Take 1 Samuel 3 verses 1 -10 as an example.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>The boy Samuel ministered before the LORD under Eli. In
those days <span style="background: yellow; mso-highlight: yellow;">the word of the
LORD was rare</span>; there were not many visions.</i></p><i>
</i><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal"><i>One night Eli, whose eyes were becoming so weak that he
could barely see, was lying down in his usual place. The lamp of God had not
yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the house of the LORD, where the ark
of God was. Then the LORD called Samuel.</i></p><i>
</i><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Samuel answered, “Here I am.” And he ran to Eli and said,
“Here I am; you called me.”</i></p><i>
</i><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal"><i>But Eli said, “I did not call; go back and lie down.” So he
went and lay down.</i></p><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></i></p><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Again the LORD called, “Samuel!” And Samuel got up and went
to Eli and said, “Here I am; you called me.”</i></p><i>
</i><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal"><i>“My son,” Eli said, “I did not call; go back and lie down.”</i></p><i>
</i><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Now <span style="background: yellow; mso-highlight: yellow;">Samuel
did not yet know the LORD</span>: <span style="background: yellow; mso-highlight: yellow;">The word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him</span>.</i></p><i>
</i><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal"><i>A third time the LORD called, “Samuel!” And Samuel got up
and went to Eli and said, “Here I am; you called me.”</i></p><i>
</i><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Then Eli realized that the LORD was calling the boy. So Eli
told Samuel, “Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, ‘Speak, LORD, for your
servant is listening.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place.</i></p><i>
</i><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal"><i>The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other
times, “Samuel! Samuel!”</i></p><i>
</i><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Then Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant is listening.”</i></p><i>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
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</p><p class="MsoNormal">It's hard to believe that Samuel grew up serving and ministering in the tabernacle, but he did not yet know the Lord. Our modern-day "church brat," and he didn't know the Lord. But God revealed and Samuel listened. He became a great leader and prophet of God. Because he listened.</p><p class="MsoNormal">God reveals. It's all throughout the Bible, and what a great read!<br /></p><p></p>
<p></p>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0Porter, TX 77365, USA30.1044506 -95.23642761.7942167638211544 -130.3926776 58.414684436178845 -60.0801776tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-73598735349178427302022-10-22T13:39:00.001-05:002023-02-18T10:16:18.834-06:00The Book of Revelation on Apathy<div><div class="kVF6d"><div class="MiCl6d" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0;"><div class="c8d6zd xWMiCc REww7c"><span data-dobid="hdw"><br /></span></div><div class="c8d6zd xWMiCc REww7c"><span data-dobid="hdw">ap·a·thy</span></div></div><div class="qexShd"><span class="LTKOO">/<span>ˈapəTHē</span>/</span></div><div aria-hidden="true" class="K6GhFd" data-is-bilingual="false"> <div class="b8aKlc"><a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&sxsrf=ALiCzsZZet9Cs0S9YAIdq0slzyzqYOYtGA:1666463592836&q=how+to+pronounce+apathy&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAOMIfcRowS3w8sc9YSn9SWtOXmPU5OINKMrPK81LzkwsyczPExLiYglJLcoV4pLi4GJLLEgsyai0YlFiSs3jWcQqnpFfrlCSr1AA1JEP1JKqAFEAAJgiqVtXAAAA&pron_lang=en&pron_country=us&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi7mu3TvPT6AhXzmGoFHVD_CNwQ3eEDegQIFRAK" tabindex="-1"><span class="fe69if"></span> </a><a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&sxsrf=ALiCzsZZet9Cs0S9YAIdq0slzyzqYOYtGA:1666463592836&q=how+to+pronounce+apathy&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAOMIfcRowS3w8sc9YSn9SWtOXmPU5OINKMrPK81LzkwsyczPExLiYglJLcoV4pLi4GJLLEgsyai0YlFiSs3jWcQqnpFfrlCSr1AA1JEP1JKqAFEAAJgiqVtXAAAA&pron_lang=en&pron_country=us&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi7mu3TvPT6AhXzmGoFHVD_CNwQ3eEDegQIFRAK" tabindex="-1"> </a> </div> </div></div></div><div class="ABgcGb vmod"></div><div class="lW8rQd"><div><div class="YrbPuc vdBwhd pgRvse"><i><span class="YrbPuc"><br /></span></i></div><div aria-hidden="true" class="xpdxpnd" data-mh="-1"><span><i><span class="kqEaA">noun</span></i>: <span class="kqEaA z8gr9e"><b>apathy</b></span></span></div></div></div><div><div data-dobid="dfn" style="display: inline;"><span>lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern</span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span></span> </div><p></p><p>Our church recently voted to disaffiliate with the United Methodist Church, and then to affiliate with the Global Methodist Church. While not one to typically favor division, this is the best course of action for our church. You see, the United Methodist Church was becoming apathetic with its doctrine, even going so far as to say Jesus was "a" way to salvation. Not "the" way. </p><p>This reminds me of the 7th letter to the church in Laodicea in Revelation, which warns against apathy. </p><blockquote><p style="text-align: left;">“To the angel of the church in Laodicea write the following: “This is the solemn pronouncement of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the originator of God’s creation: ‘I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either cold or hot! So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit you out of my mouth! Because you say, “I am rich and have acquired great wealth, and need nothing,” but do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked, take my advice and buy gold from me refined by fire so you can become rich! Buy from me white clothing so you can be clothed and your shameful nakedness will not be exposed, and buy eye salve to put on your eyes so you can see! All those I love, I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent! Listen! I am standing at the door and knocking! If anyone hears my voice and opens the door I will come into his home and share a meal with him, and he with me. I will grant the one who conquers permission to sit with me on my throne, just as I too conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne. The one who has an ear had better hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’”</p></blockquote><blockquote><p>Revelation 3:14-22 NET</p></blockquote><p>God doesn't want apethetic churches, nor does he want his people to be apethetic. Lukewarm living is not a good option. For me personally, I can't pretend it doesn't matter when some I love have lost their faith in Christ. What can I do? Not sure, but I want everyone to know the love and grace of Christ. Everyone. </p><p>God loves us all.</p><p><br /></p>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-40177455369070311342022-10-09T21:04:00.000-05:002022-10-09T21:04:29.319-05:00Stay Tuned<p>Stay tuned..... for a major revamp!<br /></p><p>It's been a decade since my last post, but it's coming back and better than ever with more meaningful content.<br /></p>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-90123370851469585562012-09-01T11:36:00.000-05:002012-09-04T11:39:33.802-05:00First of the Month Book Review - Maine by J. Courtney Sullivan<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9923372-maine" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Maine" border="0" src="http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1295996313m/9923372.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9923372-maine">Maine</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/486136.J_Courtney_Sullivan">J. Courtney Sullivan</a><br />
My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/407098147">2 of 5 stars</a><br />
<br />
Honestly I thought I would like this book very much since it was about family relationships (and came highly recommended), but I am sorry to say that I was disappointed. Not in the writing, it was good. Not in the setting, enjoyable too since it was Maine and New England and I've lived there and loved it. But in the characters. I just didn't like them.<br />
<br />
A good novel will have bad characters with rotten characteristics, but even the worst of characters will have some redeeming qualities. The characters of <i>Maine</i> did not. They are just not likeable. Take Alice, the matriarch of the family, for instance. She doesn't like her own kids, grown now with kids of their own, and frankly, she doesn't like her grandkids either. Worse, she not only dislikes them, but she actually enjoys being mean and making them suffer (all while going to church every morning).<br />
<br />
What I liked best about the book was the backstory of Alice's sister's death at the historic Cocoanut Grove nightclub fire - a true event that happened in Boston in 1942, and resulted in a reform of safety and fire codes throughout the country. That part of the story was interesting.<br />
<br />
What I liked least were the characters, unkind and selfish, as well as the ending. I kept reading thinking somewhere, someway, someone would have a redeeming quality that would make the story worth reading. But it just didn't happen that way. <br />
<br />
<i>Maine</i> is very negative and almost depressing to read, and not a book I would recommend.
<br />
<br />Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-27839050266947738152012-08-20T15:43:00.001-05:002012-08-20T15:43:45.445-05:00Want to Make Christmas Special? Really Special? Here's How...For three Christmas seasons, my family and I have hosted an international student through <a href="http://www.christmasih.org/" target="_blank">Christmas International House</a> (CIH), a peacemaking program designed to provide international students a place to stay during the Christmas break when college campuses are deserted and dormitories empty. The experience is incredible, and I invite everyone to consider participating in this year's event.<br />
<br />
The benefits to the program are numerous. To the attending student, CIH provides a place to stay and opportunity to learn about different areas of our country. They are able to develop new friendships with their host families and with other international students in the program. Christmas is celebrated with their host family, and for many, this may be their first Christmas holiday ever.<br />
<br />
For the host family, the benefits are just as numerous. Families are able to attend any or all of the program activities with their international student, making the Christmas holiday truly time spent together in fun. Strong friendships develop, and host families learn about new cultures and more. CIH promotes unity, that we are all part of the human family, despite differences in culture and ideology.<br />
<br />
Originally, we worried that hosting a student would take away from our "family time" and make Christmas less special. What we discovered was completely the opposite. CIH creates so many shared and happy experiences during the holidays and with students we've cherished and will remain forever in our hearts. IT HAS ENHANCED OUR CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY!<br />
<br />
Each year, numerous students are turned away due to lack of host families available to take them. This year I am working on putting the program together for Houston. You don't have to attend my church, or even be a Presbyterian to participate. All you need is desire to do something kind, and open your heart and home, and the treasure awaits you.<br />
<br />
For anyone interested in participating or if you want more information, please contact me.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i>You can read more about the program on the <a href="http://www.christmasih.org/" target="_blank">Christmas International House website</a> and by reading some of my blog entries from previous years concerning the program. Just type "Christmas International House" in the Search This Blog box in the left column of this page.</i></span>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-63892018408575772192012-06-12T09:20:00.000-05:002012-06-12T09:20:00.056-05:00Texting While Driving<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
I remember when they passed seat belt laws in Texas. I
reluctantly got in the habit of buckling up. But it was a good thing, and if
the law weren’t in place today, I would still buckle up. After all, it makes
the possibility of my surviving an accident so much higher. It helps me, and my
passengers who also buckle up, be safer. So while my buckling up may not do
much for you, it’s good for me, and I’m happy to oblige.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
It's odd that we have <a href="http://www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/seatbelt_laws.html">seat belt laws</a>
in 49 states, <a href="http://www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/impaired_laws.html">drunk driving
laws</a> in 50 states, yet there are very limited <a href="http://www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/cellphone_laws.html">texting
while driving laws</a>. To me, texting while driving more resembles drunk drinking than it does seat
belt usage, and should be treated similarly.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Seat belts protect passengers, but they do nothing to
prevent accidents. Texting while driving endangers passengers and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">causes</i> accidents (like drunk driving does). So it seems weird that
most states have a law that requires you protect yourself (seat belt), but they
don’t have a law that prevents you from injuring others (texting). Or if there
is a law, it’s limited, such as no usage around a school zone or with
passengers in the car under age 17.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also odd, almost everyone I talk with agrees that texting is
bad while driving and claim not to do it. Yet it only takes a few miles down
the road to see that’s clearly not the case. People text and drive a lot! What
can possibly be so important in that 160 character message to risk lives?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6HqBTwxKiXLYa_RK7se4h_58_epWTuQTJTtGM8c5mdPIG_hb9xTzpQvDNx-jRWiqmQNVcHWRFVbdjOwJiPydyIJLWWqDsiRn_XjFqAnkhBjYsszjwxnxR2rAj0WF3l8Nk8IWDmJfxvw_U/s1600/texting-while-driving1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6HqBTwxKiXLYa_RK7se4h_58_epWTuQTJTtGM8c5mdPIG_hb9xTzpQvDNx-jRWiqmQNVcHWRFVbdjOwJiPydyIJLWWqDsiRn_XjFqAnkhBjYsszjwxnxR2rAj0WF3l8Nk8IWDmJfxvw_U/s400/texting-while-driving1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I wonder if some day there will be a law completely banning texting while driving? Who knows, but in the meantime, I can tell
everyone I know not to text and drive. And I urge you to do the same. Texting
while driving is bad for everyone, and not only endangers the lives of those
texting, but the innocent victims that are hit as a result. And sometimes the
accident is so bad, that even the seat belt isn’t going to save you.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-33362233758657334842012-06-08T09:04:00.000-05:002012-06-08T09:13:04.301-05:00Short Story - Signs of LoveA year or so ago, the <a href="http://humblefictioncafe.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Humble Fiction Cafe</a> (HFC) writers group had decided to do another group project in which we would all contribute short stories to a book, with those stories centered around a fictional place called Moot. A spin-off, if you will, to our <i>Split</i> book of short stories, but with a completely different theme.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmB_WJRm4jlaMssTKeTd6DyLQCqv-YiOzqwoqmoIqDJZ9ClvXCoaHXbkXDFf3ETHr_7Rg7190-4G2sXK-K_tUBYfOxmz5oLrcLQlPT-FAhZzaEZgSFDrTTmwmKZE_1h0RxgdpZDj4Z3FQ/s1600/currituck-lighthouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmB_WJRm4jlaMssTKeTd6DyLQCqv-YiOzqwoqmoIqDJZ9ClvXCoaHXbkXDFf3ETHr_7Rg7190-4G2sXK-K_tUBYfOxmz5oLrcLQlPT-FAhZzaEZgSFDrTTmwmKZE_1h0RxgdpZDj4Z3FQ/s200/currituck-lighthouse.jpg" width="156" /></a></div>
The town of Moot was an odd place, with occasional supernatural
occurrences by the lighthouse. Moot, by the way, was not on the
ocean, but had a rather large lake outside the center of town.<br />
<br />
Without enough group enthusiasm however, the project quickly died (and unfortunately so has HFC for all intents and purposes), but not before I drafted a story. I thought I would share that story here. I hope you enjoy.<br />
<br />
Signs of Love<br />
<a href="http://wordproverb.blogspot.com/2011/09/signs-of-love.html" target="_blank">A short story by Sheryl Tuttle</a><br />
Click the link above to read the storySheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-40762028283974609982012-06-01T21:51:00.000-05:002012-06-01T21:51:11.605-05:00First of the Month Book Review - The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson<br />
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2429135.The_Girl_With_the_Dragon_Tattoo" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, #1)" border="0" src="http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1327868566m/2429135.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2429135.The_Girl_With_the_Dragon_Tattoo">The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/706255.Stieg_Larsson">Stieg Larsson</a><br />
My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/120689587">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
<br />
I had heard that <i>The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo</i> by Stieg Larsson was a bit slow in the beginning, and it is. And it never turned into a serious page-turner, although it kept my attention sufficiently. The book demanded focus in order to keep the numerous Vanger family characters straight, and honestly with my disjointed reading intervals - stealing a few minutes here and there - and the author's switching from using first names to last names, I found myself getting some of the characters mixed up at times.<br />
<br />
The story is about a journalist, Mikael Blomkvist, who investigates the 40-year old disappearance of a wealthy Swedish scion with the assistance of Lisbeth Salander, who is an investigative prodigy/computer hacker (and the girl with the dragon tattoo). There are interesting twists and turns, and a lot of violence, so it's not for the faint of heart.<br />
<br />
Along with a slow start, I felt the ending dragged also. Once the murder mystery case is resolved, the novel continues with a wrap-up of sub-plots, and there are just too many remaining pages of reading after the central story ends. <br />
<br />
Overall, I liked the story well enough, but it didn’t live up to all the hype.Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-8995987508104941812012-05-29T15:30:00.000-05:002012-05-29T15:30:00.943-05:00Giving, Oh the Blessings You'll Receive<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Part of the experience of giving is learning to receive and
appreciate your own blessings. In fact, by giving more, whether it be purchased
gifts, service to a sister or brother, or even a random act of kindness, it
opens your eyes to what you have and are able to share. It gives you more
appreciation for the special things in life.<br />
<br />
Before you roll your eyes and say “not again,” I want to share one more thought
on the <a href="http://www.29gifts.org/" target="_blank">29-day giving
challenge</a> that I signed up for and have been writing about on this blog the
last few posts.<br />
<br />
Throughout the book<i> </i><a href="http://wordproverb.blogspot.com/2012/05/1st-of-month-book-review-29-gifts-how.html" target="_blank"><i>29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life </i>by
Cami Walker</a>, Cami kept saying that her life turned around and that she was<i>
receiving more blessings</i>. I presumed she was already being blessed, but
that through her giving she was able to more clearly <i>see and appreciate</i>
those blessings. But now it’s happening with me too; I’m <u>receiving more
blessings</u>. So could it be true? That you are actually blessed more
abundantly when you give more?<br />
<br />
I have been the recipient of some amazing gifts since starting this challenge. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Shortly
after beginning the challenge, I was able to get a new computer for an
amazingly incredibly small amount of money. Not the type of gift
that falls into your lap every day. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">A
friend brought me some delicious homemade Thai curry chicken puffs that
were out of this world delicious. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><a href="http://kingwoodgardencenter.com/" target="_blank">Kingwood Garden
Center</a> blessed me with the gift of plants and supplies needed for a
Girl Scout troop beautification project, of which I’m the troop leader. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">And
there’s many more, like dinner and a Kingwood Pops concert with my Dad,
and a "many hugs" mother’s day spent in the park with family.</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihq7hLCjvedhNXmzsVSZIYv5VOCoNOCD1Th6Kqpfj1BcfrShoLhOM4a6hIjvPCEyOOk2XoeYUzsXi27H5pgK6rWzHdRZgFQzubEOOZp8AoaXSzEViKXxx2lwScv708fEGMJrJ7KhlJlPjx/s1600/6Luke38.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihq7hLCjvedhNXmzsVSZIYv5VOCoNOCD1Th6Kqpfj1BcfrShoLhOM4a6hIjvPCEyOOk2XoeYUzsXi27H5pgK6rWzHdRZgFQzubEOOZp8AoaXSzEViKXxx2lwScv708fEGMJrJ7KhlJlPjx/s400/6Luke38.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve always felt blessed and very fortunate, and it does
feel like lately it is even more so. I guess it just takes one look to the
Bible at Luke 6:38 to know it's true.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But the biggest joy I receive is to see a smile light someone’s
face, or happiness sparkle in their eyes, and know that somehow I am
partly responsible. Today is my last day of the 29-day giving challenge,
but I don’t plan to stop. Rather, I hope to make this more and more a part of
my life. </div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-64448650005465715442012-05-15T16:30:00.000-05:002012-05-15T16:30:00.339-05:00Learning to Give<br />
For those of you who read this blog regularly, you know that I recently posted a review on the book <i>29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life</i> by Cami Walker (read that review <a href="http://wordproverb.blogspot.com/2012/05/1st-of-month-book-review-29-gifts-how.html" target="_blank">here</a>), and that I subsequently signed up for the 29 gifts challenge myself. I am now 2 weeks into that challenge and I’d like to share some observations and thoughts.<br />
<br />
First off, the challenge hasn’t proven to be life changing or anything drastic like that. At least not so far. But what it has done is helped me to realize two things. First, I discovered that I already was a giver (albeit small gifts typically). It didn’t take long into the challenge to realize my gifts tend to be things I do for people, rather than items purchased and gifted. Like preparing or sharing a special dinner, or doing things for people (typing, giving small change when needed, taking time to spend with loved ones, etc.).<br />
<br />
Secondly, it has helped me open my eyes and to look more for opportunities to gift and give. While I still need help in this area and sometimes I swear I have on blinders, this challenge has helped simply by getting me in the habit of thinking about giving on a daily basis.<br />
<br />
There hasn’t been a gift that stands out above the others. In fact, one of my most recent gifting highlights is prior to my taking this challenge. We were leaving church one Sunday, and on the corner stood a man, begging. Now so often, <i>I’m embarrassed to admit this</i>, I drive by, wondering if that person has a true need or if they are using the money they receive for drugs or alcohol. I mean, how does one know?<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIGD7ZYReBxamvoCDeOSckwdf0h5UxnmsVYXQ1TIss7QGbeS6XY4E-vREvJDZdtUIwD9Z4kgerlussBmrCziHLvZm_pjunfiN_RgSorsxwRKokfBoaGc86KXv0OsCq1FmL9xq6kmnrHJqd/s1600/acts+20+35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIGD7ZYReBxamvoCDeOSckwdf0h5UxnmsVYXQ1TIss7QGbeS6XY4E-vREvJDZdtUIwD9Z4kgerlussBmrCziHLvZm_pjunfiN_RgSorsxwRKokfBoaGc86KXv0OsCq1FmL9xq6kmnrHJqd/s200/acts+20+35.jpg" width="200" /></a>But that Sunday we stopped. We gave the man $3, and a baggy of cookies and brownies we had with us in the car. Not much. But his smile and gratitude was immeasurable. I figure it would buy the man a hamburger at the nearby McDonald’s and give him a sweet treat. And whether his need was legitimate or not, it felt good to help and offer something. And really, who am I to judge his need?<br />
<br />
While I don’t often have cash on me (or cookies and brownies), I do typically have spare change, and I hope to become a more giving and less judging person. And I think daily practice and looking for opportunities to give will help. The 29 gifts challenge is really a great movement, and I invite and encourage everyone interested to read the book and sign up for the challenge. I can’t imagine anyone would be disappointed.Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-14662768002852275602012-05-08T11:00:00.000-05:002012-05-08T11:00:01.705-05:00Reaching 20 Years in Marriage<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Recently my husband and I celebrated 20 years of marriage (I’ll
call him JT). What a milestone, and what a blessing! JT isn’t perfect, and
neither am I, but somehow together we are better, and I love him with all my
heart. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After a number of failed attempts at relationships in the
past, I’m certainly no expert. At least now though, I am more experienced, and
I know some of the things that are important to make a marriage work.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First off, I pray for my marriage. Always have, and always
will. Those vows we took before God made God a part of this relationship. And
that’s important. They say “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">the family
that prays together, stays together.”</i> I believe that’s true. God is love,
so include God in your relationship. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Secondly, JT has so many wonderful qualities that make him
special, and since day 1, I’ve prayed I never lose sight of those attributes.
It’s easy for differences and disagreements to take center stage. When that
happens, the focus becomes the disparity. But truthfully, what I fell in love
with is always still there, and is a much better place to put my focus. His
kindness, compassion, his love of family and friends and his willingness to
extend himself to help others, are just some of the traits that make JT a
remarkable guy. It’s important to remember and appreciate the person you love.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally, it’s easy to take one another for granted, which is
a good thing and a bad. Good, in that it’s really nice to have someone you can
count on so much that you don’t ever doubt their support. Bad, in that
oftentimes by taking someone for granted, you forget that they still deserve
your best consideration, civility, and respect. You can’t kick the dog and
expect him to be wagging his tail when you come home. Common sense, treat each
other well.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So now I’m knocking on wood that I haven’t upset the karma
in my marriage by writing this post. I’m blessed and very much in love, but I
also know that even the best marriages go through rocky times. I just pray JT
and I never give up, and that I can write another post attesting my love in 20 more years.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_39018849"></span><span id="goog_39018850"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuuRBjv7L7XRt_MjO0ts3nslfhWRAyYIFmpUrFgIaSKYoS_pZz8-UFc5be5acOXcKLzz47axst7079nKCQDfjGMfw9P0sggs8QivA07Y8Ugvo25QwelGnX8GlQV2h640J_51IKmrj8tbNI/s1600/Wedding+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuuRBjv7L7XRt_MjO0ts3nslfhWRAyYIFmpUrFgIaSKYoS_pZz8-UFc5be5acOXcKLzz47axst7079nKCQDfjGMfw9P0sggs8QivA07Y8Ugvo25QwelGnX8GlQV2h640J_51IKmrj8tbNI/s320/Wedding+pic.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and JT on our Wedding Day - still in love 20 years later</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>Love is patient and
kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude. Love does
not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not
rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right. Love bears all things, believes
all things, hopes all things, endures all things.</i></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">1 Corinthians 13:4-7</i><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-5298211498363556882012-05-01T10:00:00.000-05:002012-05-01T10:00:00.436-05:001st of the Month Book Review – 29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life by Cami Walker<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8214908-29-gifts" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life" border="0" src="http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1328316962m/8214908.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8214908-29-gifts">29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2974995.Cami_Walker">Cami Walker</a><br />
My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/317633892">5 of 5 stars</a><br />
<br />
29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life was recommended by my pastor, and I’m so glad I read it. It’s full of wisdom and insight, including advice from the author’s mother on the secret to a long-lasting marriage, who said “’It’s very simple. We never break up. No matter what.’”<br />
<br />
The story is written by Cami Walker who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) shortly after her wedding. Seeking relief from her resulting depression and her suffering from the disease, a “medicine woman” named Mbali prescribes that Cami give away 29 gifts in 29 days. This book recounts how that prescription changed Cami’s life and began a gift-giving movement.<br />
<br />
Through 29 days of giving, Cami redirects her focus from inward thinking and preoccupation of her disease to outward generosity. She moves from self-centeredness to selflessness, and the positive results on her body and mind are amazing. She is happier and healthier, more capable of accepting assistance for herself, and is more “engaged in life.” Her attitude shifted from one focused on what she lacked, to one of altruism and gratitude, seeking opportunities and new paths.<br />
<br />
I enjoyed reading about the various gifts Cami gave, both large and small, and how each one impacted her. And as I post this review, I just signed up for the challenge myself on the 29 Gifts website, <a href="http://www.29gifts.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.29gifts.org</a>. Before signing up, I highly recommend you read the book first, even if just to get a feel for what constitutes a “gift.” <br />
<br />
29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life is inspiring at the least. Through her book and website, Cami is trying to ignite a global goodwill movement and renewal of the giving spirit. Just imagine our world if everyone took the challenge!Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-10845673116112191742012-04-24T12:00:00.000-05:002012-04-24T12:00:04.807-05:00Teaching Appreciation<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I sure wish parenting were easy<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> (how many times have I said that?)</i>, or
that there were a manual or Google search with all the answers. But it isn’t
always easy, in fact very rarely so, and there’s no such place to find the
magic solution. So much of it is luck and experience. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">And…</i> it helps to have good kids.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">And I do have good kids. Bright,
responsible, fun-loving, happy, healthy, considerate… need I go on? But there
is one area with room for improvement that bothers me, and it’s not just my
kids, but a lot of today’s youth suffer from this one lack of refinement.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Appreciation.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Don’t get me wrong. My kids really
like gifts and privileges, and will occasionally almost squeal with delight as
a recipient. But truthfully, many of today’s youth feel a sense of entitlement,
and while they like their “stuff,” they don’t necessarily appreciate it. There “stuff”
comes to them too easily.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Maybe it’s the times. After all,
each generation works hard to improve their standard of living and increase
their buying power. Consumerism is pushed through marketing and advertising,
much geared towards our youth, arousing our kids “wants” of the latest game or
gadget. And as parents, we often feel guilty if we don’t succumb and give our
kids what their peers already own. We want our kids to have the latest style clothing,
shoes, telephones, i-pods, etc. But that’s just foolish. And it isn’t doing
anyone any favors.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">So how do you teach appreciation?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Kids ask for things all the time,
material items or not, but things that come too easily aren’t valued. I
struggle with saying “no” and have </span><a href="http://wordproverb.blogspot.com/2010/08/my-kids-cant-have-everything-learning.html"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">written about that before</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">,
but saying no can actually be good for our kids, as it makes them appreciate
those “yeses” much more.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">But it’s more than even saying no.
It’s about giving our kids accountability as they grow and develop, and to provide
the goodies and gadgets as reward, for their work and for taking the initiative
to help out. This gives our kids a clearer perspective of the proper worth of
the item or action.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHdgn2qb2VfapnVJdpBJpl1RFgA7S9QtCnkDLlf3Gbn7V8R6fjQp4adUp_HdgJ8afGGGubFbzIZ9YZUOorRXprY-SkRucj2L6tZ7InlXap6L1aw-CuZN-hT2wuvAkLGUIwwQUT3Vrs_yAp/s1600/three-red-hearts-clipart.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHdgn2qb2VfapnVJdpBJpl1RFgA7S9QtCnkDLlf3Gbn7V8R6fjQp4adUp_HdgJ8afGGGubFbzIZ9YZUOorRXprY-SkRucj2L6tZ7InlXap6L1aw-CuZN-hT2wuvAkLGUIwwQUT3Vrs_yAp/s200/three-red-hearts-clipart.png" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 13:24 says “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">He who spares the rod hates his son, but he
who loves him is diligent to discipline him.</i>” Discipline is not only
punishment for correction, but also includes activities that advance or improve
skills; training. Saying no sometimes and giving our kids responsibilities is
showing love, and it teaches appreciation.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">It’s wonderful to give our kids
gifts and pleasures, and even more so to see their faces light up in sincere
appreciation and thanksgiving.</span></div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-80491144773621463942012-04-17T11:30:00.000-05:002012-04-17T11:30:01.851-05:00A Mother's Love - The Best Gift of All<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">My mom passed away fairly recently.
It was after a long battle with lung cancer, of which we knew about for 6 days.
Somehow all the doctors and hospitals, and the multiple diagnostic tests that
were run for months all missed the cancer each time. They attributed her
rapidly declining health to COPD. Finally 6 days before she died, we found out
what was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">really</i> making her so sick
and tired. Advanced lung cancer and <a href="http://www.cancer.net/patient/All+About+Cancer/Treating+Cancer/Managing+Side+Effects/Superior+Vena+Cava+Syndrome">superior
vena cava syndrome</a>.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Mom was a strong woman, so close to
death yet she pushed herself and didn’t complain. She’d say she was “tired,”
when others would have been on the floor crying. And she just finished up 6
weeks of pulmonary rehab, which didn’t help at all. Gee, wonder why? Yeah,
guess I’m a little bitter about the whole thing and how the medical community
let us down.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">But this isn’t a post about that.
Rather I wanted to talk about how very lucky I was to have been able to know
her, to love her, and especially live near her in her last few years. And how I
miss my mom. I miss being able to run important decisions by her. I miss being
able to get her honest opinion about things. I miss hearing her cheer me on
when she believed in what I was doing. My mom was so wise, and almost always
nearly right (even though I didn’t see it that way every time). And probably
the most honest and moral person I have ever known.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpaM3ITvVQ1LjN3mD5qZtYHFyF4BNx4d3KPO3L5_LEz6TCP_rH52T1GtQ0lsPlrw5hmuPPQnWWflKCaEJXjGtvmd7o0irhRs8opEUByw0useCYXaMN1MM6D62sCBaG_rmDrSODJ9l9u47/s1600/1corinthians1313desktop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpaM3ITvVQ1LjN3mD5qZtYHFyF4BNx4d3KPO3L5_LEz6TCP_rH52T1GtQ0lsPlrw5hmuPPQnWWflKCaEJXjGtvmd7o0irhRs8opEUByw0useCYXaMN1MM6D62sCBaG_rmDrSODJ9l9u47/s320/1corinthians1313desktop.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">But I think best of all, no matter
what, I knew that she loved me. It didn’t matter what I had done or said or the
mistakes I made, she loved me unconditionally. And that feels good, to know
someone loves you despite your downfalls and failings, even through your mistakes
and screw-ups. Even if she didn’t approve of something I was doing, I still knew
I was loved. That was a true blessing and gift, and one I hope to pass on also
to my daughters. I want to pass on that same enduring love, so my daughters know that always and forever their “momma” loves them. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The bible says in 1 Corinthians
13:13, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">So faith, hope, love abide, these
three; but the greatest of these is love.</i>” Thanks for always loving me, Mom!</span></div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-23474107012779823862012-04-10T14:00:00.000-05:002012-04-10T14:00:04.326-05:00Deliberate Contemplation<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Yesterday I enjoyed a little
outdoors. I pulled a few weeds from around some of the vegetable plants, and took
pleasure in the fresh air, good dirt, and sunshine. I didn’t pull nearly all
the weeds, but a few of the larger offenders anyway, and more for enjoyment
versus actually making any progress. It was truly to take a break from my busy
day.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The great outdoors, the quiet, the
peace – I love it! Certainly not a luxury I experience often. Hectic schedules,
multitasking to get everything done, and electronic intrusions (smartphones)
are more the norm around here, and I suspect for most people anyway. Life is so
busy and fast-paced. And it’s really a shame. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I wonder what all this busy-ness is
doing to our kids. With all the technology, gadgets, and devices they are
growing up with, will they even know <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">how</i>
to relax? Fully scheduled calendars, vibrating smartphones, uploading photo’s
to Facebook, and doing homework between texts is unfortunately our kids “normal.”
Certainly all this new technology makes being connected much easier, but what’s
it doing for our downtime? Do our kids even have any downtime?</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj45cUeakaHKiQ3KdHa-S3w3tAFa_EI_XVPZG0QET7i-DctbB_qz38XIQFPf4jqkFHGQkP0MJB1NFiacPWUdE80VcGjebZaUMpxml37ajh1BXrKQHZFb6EloFkHkKu2UXKwkOFQxF7KQFYW/s1600/girl+contemplating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj45cUeakaHKiQ3KdHa-S3w3tAFa_EI_XVPZG0QET7i-DctbB_qz38XIQFPf4jqkFHGQkP0MJB1NFiacPWUdE80VcGjebZaUMpxml37ajh1BXrKQHZFb6EloFkHkKu2UXKwkOFQxF7KQFYW/s320/girl+contemplating.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It is good to slow down, and even
stop now and then. To be quiet. Listen. Observe. And to feel connected.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The story of Martha and Mary in Luke
10:38-42 says it best:</span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Now
as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha
welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the
Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much
serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister
has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered
her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one
thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken
away from her.” </span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I confess, if Jesus were my guest, I
would probably be more like Martha. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jesus
is here</i>, I would think,<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> I must
prepare a magnificent meal</i>. And only the best would do. I would get busy searching
my pantry and garden for the freshest foods available. I’d wash the fine china
to serve the meal. Then I’d cook, using only the finest ingredients. And like
Martha, I’d be very jealous of my sister, who wasn’t helping, but chose instead
to spend time with Jesus.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">But that’s just it. Mary <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">chose</i> to spend time with Jesus. And it’s
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">our</i> choice too what we do with <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">our</i> time. Perhaps we should learn from
Mary, and let go of our anxiousness and troubles, our busy and hectic
lifestyles, and listen for and draw closer to God. Throughout his life, even Jesus
took time to be alone in prayer. Sending his disciples ahead of him or
retreating to a mountain, He would often withdraw to pray. His life is an
example of how we are to live ours.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Today’s lifestyle doesn’t lend well
to teaching our kids how to slow down or relax. Rather it’s all about
multitasking and achieving more in less time. So as parents, it’s up to us to
live our lives as examples. This means spending less time worrying over what is
left to be done, and more time in stillness and deliberate contemplation. Not
an easy task in everyday life, but one well worth the effort.</span></div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-91637106734786643212012-04-03T16:00:00.000-05:002012-04-03T16:00:01.563-05:00The Importance of Church for Kids<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I’m glad that I’ve taken my kids to
church on Sundays since they were babies. Now that they are pre-teen and teen,
it’s expected that on Sunday mornings we will attend church, except for the
rarity of being out of town, having to work, or someone in the family being
sick. And I’m so glad that’s the case for a number of reasons.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Obviously, the biggest benefit is
that we worship God together as a family. Which is what church is for, the worship
of Almighty God. It’s not about me, it’s not about you, and it’s not about hearing
a sermon so that you or I can <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">feel</i>
better. It’s all about glorifying God, and it’s nice to do that in fellowship
with my family.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">But more than the obvious, I am so
lucky that my kids don’t <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">argue</b> about
going to church, whereas someone who hasn’t taken their kids to church might
have a hard time dragging them there at this age. Their kids may fear the
unknown, and worry about not knowing the bible, the church traditions, or even what
to expect in the service. And they may dread the boredom. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">After all</i>, these youth think, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">how
could church be anything but boring?</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">But it IS anything but boring. My
family loves church (kids included)! It’s where we go to fill ourselves with
the word of God. To learn how to live our life amidst all the growing troubles
in the world, in our communities, and in our lives. Where we can fellowship
with other believers, who also experience trials and tribulations, and who love
us and accept us no matter our short-comings. (So despite church not being
about making us <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">feel</i> better, it’s invariably
one of the many positive side-effects).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">And a real blessing for my kids is
being able to relate to other kids who are also learning Christian values
through Sunday school, and for my oldest, through a weekend youth retreat each
year called <a href="http://www.cho-yeh.org/texas-retreats/conclaves">Conclaves</a>.
These weekend camps are organized and led by youth, specifically for middle and
senior high school kids. They learn and grow in their love of God and one
another through small group discussions, and they enjoy leisure time, adventure
opportunities, and even a concert.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-I7cvq9cY2ufhKeOfqr33gSCgDF2_EjHAMrLmyyci15eYBv6rQA_ddRmD8CgdBFhLwYuvZbbucJBOyIKQCTgM93oIeE5VQ-y5zV2BZOHtMVg1n2QOpCwQf82hTNsT9Idldrvb8a5OsENx/s1600/thrive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-I7cvq9cY2ufhKeOfqr33gSCgDF2_EjHAMrLmyyci15eYBv6rQA_ddRmD8CgdBFhLwYuvZbbucJBOyIKQCTgM93oIeE5VQ-y5zV2BZOHtMVg1n2QOpCwQf82hTNsT9Idldrvb8a5OsENx/s200/thrive.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">My kids are comfortable
attending church and even weekend outings with area youth. It will be up to
them what they do with their spirituality when they are older and on their own.
As adults, they will decide whether or not to attend church (I rarely attended
church once I was an adult until I had children of my own). But at least they
have a foundation on which to thrive, to build and base their decisions. That’s about all
I can give them.</span></div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-50226736348071599722012-04-01T08:00:00.000-05:002012-04-01T08:00:05.513-05:001st of the Month Book Review - The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2767052-the-hunger-games" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Hunger Games (The Hunger Games, #1)" border="0" src="http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1326003698m/2767052.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2767052-the-hunger-games">The Hunger Games</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/153394.Suzanne_Collins">Suzanne Collins</a><br />
My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/126956775">4 of 5 stars</a><br />
<br />
What I liked best about The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins was that I was able to share the excitement with BOTH my daughters, pre-teen and teen. They both loved the book and it was fun to share our thoughts about the characters and everything that happened. We had lively discussions of the characters and events - it was as though they were real.<br />
<br />
And while it was easy enough to put down when I first started the book, once Peeta and Katniss arrive in the Capitol of Panem to begin training for the games, I was hooked. I didn't want to put the book down until it was finished, I had to know what happened next and how it would all end. Fortunately, it is a quick and easy read and now I look forward to reading the sequels.<br />
<br />
Set in the future in the ruins of North America, I thought it clever that the author televised the games in each of the 12 districts. It was interesting how they prepared the tributes to make an impression (including Haymitch's encouraging of the romance between Peeta and Katniss), and how important that would be to sponsors. The similarity to today's reality TV is striking.<br />
<br />
What I liked least about The Hunger Games was that it is a young adult novel, but is a story about kids killing kids. Even the thought is repelling. Until I read it, I worried that the storyline would be too violent and disturbing for younger readers.<br />
<br />
It IS violent, but it's survival and intuition and friendship too. And it's a really good read!<br />
<br />
<u>Now about the movie</u>:<br />
The Hunger Games movie is good also, but there are differences as is so often the case in movie versus book. (Spoiler alert...) For example, in the book when Katniss sings to Rue as she dies and then adorns her dead body with flowers, the people of District 11 thank Katniss by sending her a gift of bread, while the movie versus reflected only a rebellion. Also in the book, Katniss loses her hearing in one ear after the loud explosion she caused to destroy the stored food supplies of the career tributes. The movie didn't mention any hearing loss. The movie also didn't quite match the book in the relationship between Peeta and Katniss, and particularly how Katniss pretends to have feelings for Peeta in order to gain sponsors and receive needed gifts. That was really downplayed in the movie. And there are more. But one thing I thought superior in the movie was the burning capes worn by Katniss and Peeta in the opening ceremonies. It exceeded even my imagination! It was a well done movie adaptation!Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-83236957777935279862012-03-27T14:00:00.000-05:002012-03-27T14:00:03.113-05:00Bad News Kind-of Sucks<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uz3TAjUwCao/T3DimjnPezI/AAAAAAAAAvw/Jy4Zcb3t5qc/s1600/read_all_about_it_end.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uz3TAjUwCao/T3DimjnPezI/AAAAAAAAAvw/Jy4Zcb3t5qc/s320/read_all_about_it_end.jpg" width="288" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Listen to the news today and you’ll
hear stories about shootings, war, and heated exchanges between politicians.
The grocery store tabloids tout scandal about celebrity divorces and deaths. We
hear about bankruptcy, nuclear arms, and natural disasters. You get the gist. But
every now and then you’ll get a good news story… new promising treatment for a
terminal disease, a heroic rescue, missing person found. Wouldn’t it be great
if we had more of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">those</i> stories?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The media is full of “bad” news. And
it seems the more horrific, the more it’s covered and talked about. But
frankly, bad news kind-of sucks. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Bad news is disheartening and
depressing, and too much negativism is contagious. The </span><a href="http://www.eric.ed.gov/ERICWebPortal/resources/html/about/about_eric.html"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Education Resources Information Center (ERIC)</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> contains a report from the Communications Research Center entitled,
</span><a href="http://www.eric.ed.gov/ERICWebPortal/search/detailmini.jsp?_nfpb=true&_&ERICExtSearch_SearchValue_0=ED230947&ERICExtSearch_SearchType_0=no&accno=ED230947"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The Effects
of Bad and Good News on Newspaper Image and Community Image</span></i></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">. The study concluded that “bad news created a negative
image of the community not only on characteristics directly related to the news
topics (safety, crime, and violence) but also on general characteristics
(standard of living, neighborhoods, and environment).” Too much bad news just proves
things are bad and getting worse, it makes you feel generally bad. But guess
what? Good news is just as contagious!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">As followers of Christ, we are commissioned
to “love one another,” (</span><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2015:12&version=NASB"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">John 15:12</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">)
and we should give the same amount of attention and talk time to our good
fortunes. Imagine a world that is full of positive thoughts and actions and
deeds! Oh that I would live to see!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Now I’m not saying that we should
ignore or be oblivious to all bad news. I don't advocate turning the news off. Certainly not – it’s important to be
aware of the issues. But we need to feed ourselves with equal amounts good news. What
goes in is what comes out. Good news is uplifting, and it breeds happiness. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">It takes a little more effort to
find and hear inspiring stories. Those feel good stories don’t always make
front page or prime time, but they're so worth the effort. So here's three websites I've found that feature good news:</span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Good News Network</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> (subscription service)</span><br />
<a href="http://www.happynews.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Happy News</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/good-news/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Huffpost Good News</span></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">So where
do you go to hear your positive and enriching stories?</span></div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-27292189117663773802012-03-20T15:45:00.000-05:002012-03-20T15:45:00.445-05:00When Bad Things Happen<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
We all experience problems in life, both personally and as a
society. Maybe you’ve experienced the loss of a job, a loved one, or your home.
Maybe you have a boss that is so mean you can’t stand the thought of another
days work. Perhaps your health is failing, or you’ve lost money in the stock
market, or ______. You fill in the blank. We all have them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As a society, our problems are no better. In this world we have people dying of starvation.
There is crime and corruption. War.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Plenty of reason to complain. Justification to lift our
fists in anger and blame God. For some, it’s enough to even doubt that God
exists.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Remember though - we were given <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Free_will">free will</a>. And if we look
hard enough, we will find that most of the time, the blame for our calamities
and problems can be traced back not to God, but to us. Poor choices, hatred, bigotry,
greed, indifference – these are usually the culprits and cause of our grief,
not God.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Look around you. Humankind has been blessed with a world of abundance<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9004843139548086975#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1;" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">[1]</span></span></span></a>
and beauty. But yes, bad things happen, even to good people. That doesn't mean God doesn't exist, nor does it mean God is to blame.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnppXwgAUU_wP3IOFzPKgKrlyoRd4ILjrfefkJ36Wa7VVMVrj9uOrZs85JM7Hgzjf6TkAE0i3AzSbqvZFJS_6liQZvIzhvHlh2RynNoE0c_IQzzWoEKyNDcNyR3DDnkQdRrZ-AaSoAfVR9/s1600/quit_your_crying_or_ill_give_you_something_to_cry_card-p137007394625541208qi0i_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnppXwgAUU_wP3IOFzPKgKrlyoRd4ILjrfefkJ36Wa7VVMVrj9uOrZs85JM7Hgzjf6TkAE0i3AzSbqvZFJS_6liQZvIzhvHlh2RynNoE0c_IQzzWoEKyNDcNyR3DDnkQdRrZ-AaSoAfVR9/s320/quit_your_crying_or_ill_give_you_something_to_cry_card-p137007394625541208qi0i_400.jpg" width="320" /></a>Remember when you were a kid riding in the backseat of the
car and started whining. Your parents told you to be quiet, but you kept on
whining and kept on, until finally your dad shouted that he’d give you
something to cry about. Well, maybe God gets tired of hearing us all complain
too. How about we look for the joy and beauty (because it is there), and offer our thanksgiving instead on this trip called life.</div>
<div style="mso-element: footnote-list;">
<br />
<hr align="left" size="1" width="33%" />
<div id="ftn1" style="mso-element: footnote;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9004843139548086975#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1;" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">[1]</span></span></span></a> According
to numerous authorities on hunger, including <a href="http://www.poverty.com/">Poverty.com</a>
and <a href="http://www.lifenews.com/2011/05/29/overpopulation-is-a-myth-plenty-of-food-and-space-exists/">LifeNews.com</a>,
there is plenty of food to go around. It’s just up to us to see that it’s
distributed. </div>
<div class="MsoFootnoteText">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-32927355520181809902012-03-13T10:00:00.000-05:002012-03-13T10:00:11.136-05:00Discerning the Correct Career Choice<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What do you want to
be when you grow up?</i>” I ask my daughter and some of her friends this
question on occasion, and I was asked this when I was young too. My daughter
doesn’t know what she wants to be, nor do most of her friends. I wonder if I do
either, or if I ever will.
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIy7UGR7V64PZ-ndXz7fnFnvNywuvjJrqYcLIu9x7o5gASi3R0zz_N6EpJeHXG-8gvlOhby3OzUNLVAP9SGtRfMs3zIjmR7xYLac-Zl19kFUIl1vdogNmgLTGnpSwNlgAnWHD4n0-ZegP5/s1600/do+what+you+are.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIy7UGR7V64PZ-ndXz7fnFnvNywuvjJrqYcLIu9x7o5gASi3R0zz_N6EpJeHXG-8gvlOhby3OzUNLVAP9SGtRfMs3zIjmR7xYLac-Zl19kFUIl1vdogNmgLTGnpSwNlgAnWHD4n0-ZegP5/s200/do+what+you+are.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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You would think at my age, I would have it all figured out,
that I would know what I want to do, what career path to take, where to focus
my energies. I’ve worked in various industries, from banking to technology,
real estate to retail sales, office administration to sales initiation. I’ve read
books, including <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/0316845213/innovationwat-20">Do What You Are:
Discover the Perfect Career for You through the Secrets of Personality Type</a></i>
by Paul D. Tieger & Barbara Barron-Tieger, which suggests career choices
based on your <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myers-Briggs">Myers Briggs</a>
personality type. Yet I still don’t know, for sure.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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So how does one discern the correct career choice in life?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The right career varies throughout a person’s life as their
life unfolds and changes. If you don’t have kids for example, you might not
mind travel or working the long hours required in many professions. But once
kids are in the picture, your life transforms and so does your ideal job. So it’s
a floating target, and throughout life you may make many changes (particularly
true for women as they are oftentimes the primary caregivers).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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The advice I offer my kids (and you, my readers) is this:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Find a line of work in which you have interest. If
you have a lot of interests, this isn’t going to narrow your choices so much as
give you a broad lineup of options that will work and satisfy.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Don’t go for a job simply because of the pay.
Money isn’t the end all. Sure, it’s needed to afford necessities, but it also
fuels wants. It doesn’t necessarily make your life richer.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Pray, and then listen for God’s direction. God
has a plan for you, so pray for wisdom and discernment, and most importantly,
God’s will.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The litmus test as to whether you are in the right field can
be done in the confines of your own home – no books or research required. And it’s
simple. Do you wake up in the morning dreading work, or looking forward to
another day?</div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-59860226386283100452012-03-06T16:00:00.000-06:002012-03-06T16:00:03.827-06:00A Loving Family - Top Priority<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwpuSf-3BUaeHIxlpweGrmG9aQam8PG0dDyT4yb9pCtbIq_YU8r2DOnsWPm3y6Use955kWG32SET4EFOUpFUQ9YzVCV9aaXXmu9jbzpfOEvzxGPf8vMJ62CCb3HHX4CWtZCOSSL9yDbdTo/s1600/cartoon+family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwpuSf-3BUaeHIxlpweGrmG9aQam8PG0dDyT4yb9pCtbIq_YU8r2DOnsWPm3y6Use955kWG32SET4EFOUpFUQ9YzVCV9aaXXmu9jbzpfOEvzxGPf8vMJ62CCb3HHX4CWtZCOSSL9yDbdTo/s1600/cartoon+family.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
What are your stresses? Everyone has them. There are so many
pressures in life today – work, making ends meet financially, busy schedules,
constant connectedness through electronic devices, and so forth – making it
difficult to find time to relax and unwind. We’re pretty good about keeping
everything in check though, and holding those burdens inside. If you’re like
me, you’re friendly and polite, even with complete strangers. Actually . . . <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">especially</i> with complete strangers. But
the minute we are with our loved ones...
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A loving family is like a mini-extension of your self. You
look in the mirror and like yourself (hopefully), even seeing all your faults. Well,
your family does too, just like you love them. They love you and know you
better than anyone else, your talents and your flaws, and maybe even more than
we know ourselves. And they love us despite our shortcomings, which makes it
easy to let loose our frustrations and disappointments. After all, they will
love us anyway, right? Even though we might be a little curt?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But we shouldn’t take our families for granted; rather we
should always make an effort to develop an even stronger family unity through
loving kindness. Even when we’re stressed. Why in the world wouldn’t we treat
the people we love the most in this world <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">better</i>
than anyone else? Shouldn’t we treat them always with the specialness they
deserve and with the love they hold in our hearts? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/priority">Dictionary.com</a> defines priority as “something given special
attention.” A loving family rocks. We would all do well to remember to show our
families our best attributes, and make family a top priority.</div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-18291218450429430802012-02-28T11:00:00.000-06:002012-02-28T11:00:10.753-06:00Selfish Prayers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsdJmJ-vYxNFO9DyOklk9JzYGlgU9hXXFubFn0UlJTsOZAvxoguYuKPaJTuU6ue5SlXsNk2LYUtH-qS4MgFMoJqP3nN3YKXg06A5zI_kK_DqF8IHd6d2s1JE6yJj0GUrGEbacu22j8UVRG/s1600/2012-toyota-highlander-hybrid_100371682_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsdJmJ-vYxNFO9DyOklk9JzYGlgU9hXXFubFn0UlJTsOZAvxoguYuKPaJTuU6ue5SlXsNk2LYUtH-qS4MgFMoJqP3nN3YKXg06A5zI_kK_DqF8IHd6d2s1JE6yJj0GUrGEbacu22j8UVRG/s200/2012-toyota-highlander-hybrid_100371682_m.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Recently I found myself praying for a solution to a transportation dilemma I am experiencing. Actually, I didn’t pray for a solution, I prayed for a car (<i>is that selfish or what?</i>). And I dressed the prayer in cloths of need. Let me explain.<br />
<br />
My kids love our church, and they’ve started asking their friends to go. One friend is even joining our church family, another is becoming fairly regular. Our problem is that on some Sundays, we just don’t have enough room to transport everyone and we have to say “no.” So I found myself actually praying <i>specifically </i>for a 7-seater vehicle (<i>that sounds so selfish</i>).<br />
<br />
But it is my belief and understanding that we can go to God with all our requests and that God wishes to know all the desires of our hearts. So that is what I did. However, I don’t think God intends for us to go to him with a need, and hem him in with our narrow-minded solution. God knows the solution to our dilemma; not I. God sees things that we can’t even imagine (see my prior post, <a href="http://wordproverb.blogspot.com/2012/02/god-cares-even-for-smallest-details.html"><i>God Cares Even for the Smallest Details</i></a>, for an example). <br />
<br />
It's not the praying for the need that's selfish - God wants to know. But it's confining God to a desired solution that I believe is selfish. So rather than ask for the miracle of a 7-seater vehicle, (<i>because that truly would be a miracle</i>), I instead turn the problem over to God to solve as he sees fit. Larger car? Maybe. Additional adult drivers? Who knows, but I look forward to God’s solution, not mine.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-7463320703524138602012-02-21T12:30:00.000-06:002012-02-21T12:30:00.936-06:00God Cares Even for the Smallest Details<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRgaqJKzCSc4nspX53hqZuCmm_KgA79Z0dZnacYJljpfPAjrPkr0c1mFExty7XgOczAy5fOcgwJEVj0REhGBeWYGnxrTxbeNEflQBR5m60tYLDW0KS_eMHH2hChAUjfauO34Ix_V8O_5VR/s1600/Miracles+Happen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="117" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRgaqJKzCSc4nspX53hqZuCmm_KgA79Z0dZnacYJljpfPAjrPkr0c1mFExty7XgOczAy5fOcgwJEVj0REhGBeWYGnxrTxbeNEflQBR5m60tYLDW0KS_eMHH2hChAUjfauO34Ix_V8O_5VR/s200/Miracles+Happen.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Isn’t God amazing?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I know and love some unbelievers. I would like to be able to
tell them stories of huge miracles in my life, proof positive that God exists.
Mountain-moving miracles that confirm God beyond a doubt. But I can’t.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But I CAN tell stories of small miracles, and that’s one of
the things that amazes me about God. God cares even about the small stuff!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let me elaborate on one such small incident.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Recently my daughter was upset with news regarding a youth
group church camping trip, and learned that she would not be attending the same
weekend as her friends from church. (Small stuff I know, but pretty big to a
teenager). There was nothing we could do to fix it. She registered early and
was able to attend the only weekend she was available. Unfortunately the rest
of the group registered late, and the weekend was full. They would have to
attend an alternate weekend.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4FREXDWcKHHp_4ljMYxhHNbOMj30DLmhBgM2y__colgTIgu1DAlTOANsPUUgNoCwbolnjcEZcBIlXs5fLlz5S2doldtwjxVGzN7d93wSiB1c95lNdyvjSRA56IRe47kg8NkRinb2myXD/s1600/discernment1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4FREXDWcKHHp_4ljMYxhHNbOMj30DLmhBgM2y__colgTIgu1DAlTOANsPUUgNoCwbolnjcEZcBIlXs5fLlz5S2doldtwjxVGzN7d93wSiB1c95lNdyvjSRA56IRe47kg8NkRinb2myXD/s1600/discernment1.jpg" /></a>There were just two solutions I could see: 1) go individually,
meet new friends and make the best of it; or 2) cancel and stay home. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But God saw it differently. God rearranged the pieces and
solved the puzzle in a manner that is complete and beautiful, because he made
it possible for the whole church youth group to go together. God made it
possible for the camp to accommodate more kids, thus enabling her entire youth
group to go together.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Small stuff, I know. But it just goes to show that God cares
even for the smallest of details. God’s love is truly amazing!</div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004843139548086975.post-26490295201678240462012-02-14T10:16:00.000-06:002012-02-14T10:16:18.058-06:00Where do I Draw the Line?<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Being a parent isn’t always easy; heck, it’s rarely easy.
Especially, I think, when we talk about teenagers. One challenge is knowing
where to draw the line between letting kids make their own decisions (and
mistakes), versus stepping in and laying down the law. Here’s an example.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My oldest daughter, God bless her, is focused on and
determined to get as much college completed in high school as possible. This so
she will have less time needed to complete her education after high school,
thus saving her parents lots of money in tuition, and lessening her need for
student loans, etc. And whatever else may be her motivation (she’s a very
private person), she is strong-minded and resolved. She attends an <a href="http://www.txechs.com/what_is_echs.php">Early College High School</a>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The curriculum and homework by itself is enough to be
rigorous to most kids, but she also participates in competitive gymnastics. She
is a <a href="http://ezinearticles.com/?Optional-Gymnastics,-Levels-7-10:-Everything-You-Need-to-Know&id=5532013">level
7 optional gymnast</a>. Which means she practices – a lot!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is the combination of both that is my worry, as it is too
heavy a load. Staying up until 2am to get it all done isn’t the answer, as she
is becoming more and more sleep deprived, and I worry that she will injure
herself or become sick. So as a parent, where do I draw the line?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I admire her tenacity to get a good education and I feel
proud that she is so dedicated. And while I don’t think gymnastics is as crucial
as her education, it is still important. She’s building strength, flexibility,
and coordination, and it is a physical release for her of some of the stresses
in her life. She also LOVES it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So how do I respond to this situation when I see the toil this
heavy load takes on her life? Do I suggest she go to an easier school that will
still provide her a good education? Or do I tell her to back off of gymnastics
and not worry about her competitions? Do I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">insist</i>
in one or the other? Where exactly is that parenting line – where I let her
make her own decisions versus where I step in and make the decision for her? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want to be a supportive, loving parent that does the right
thing for my kids. I just wish it were easier to know exactly what that is.</div>Sheryl Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04265984328074588362noreply@blogger.com0