peacesojourner

Sunday Reflection - Jesus Could You Forgive Me?

2012-01-29T08:00:00.002-05:00

Rodney

photo by John Decker

Jesus Could You Forgive Me?

I wonder what would happen if Jesus came back to live among us. Suppose He just wanted to see up close what we’re doing with our lives, how we’re treating one another, and if we’re practicing the values of love, compassion, and mercy that He taught. I imagine Him taking on a human form that would allow Him to live as one of us. The Jesus I love probably would not take the position of a CEO of a large company or a well-known leader.

He might be more likely to return as a homeless person. The thought of that makes me shudder. For just last week, a homeless man approached me, and I turned away. Was it a lack of empathy on my part? Fear perhaps? It doesn’t matter why really. I could have been generous, but I chose to be selfish – not just with my money, but worse, with my heart. Dear Jesus, if that was you, could you forgive me?

He could come back as a lonely old man, like the one who lives next door to me. My neighbor keeps to himself and we seldom speak – and to be honest I haven’t made an effort to change that. I’ve never offered to help him lug his groceries up the stairs, scrape ice off his sidewalk, or do any of the many tasks that must surely challenge an elderly man. Have I been too lazy to be kind? Too self-involved to reach out? Jesus, if that is you, could you forgive me?

If I hurt them, did I not hurt Jesus, too? For He has said, “Inasmuch as you have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me”. So, still I must ask, Jesus, can you forgive me?

Every single day offers chances to be helpful, supportive, or generous. What do you do with your chances? Do you see a person in need as an opportunity to touch another life – or as an intrusion on your own? Do you walk away, when you could reach out? Do you judge, when you could support? When we fail to help, aren’t we failing Jesus? And ourselves?

If I could strive to treat those individuals as if they were Jesus, I’m pretty sure He would be a lot more pleased with the person I had become. And so would I.

written by David L. Weatherford

Matt 25:40 And the King will tell them, 'I assure you, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me.'

Matt 25:45 And he will answer, 'I assure you, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me.'

If It Is Thursday It's Going Green - Mandatory Take-Back Programs

2012-01-26T10:00:00.000-05:00

Did you know that there are Mandatory Take-Back Programs? -

Certain items are required by law to be accepted by retailers or manufacturers. Whenever you have a product to take back, call before you go to ensure that retailers are complying with the law.

The following list indicates some of the mandatory items: auto batteries, bottles and cans, cell phones, motor oil, rechargeable batteries, plastic bags, paper, sharps and tires.

Personal Auto Tires 

Used tires dumped at the side of the road, in vacant lots, or along railroad tracks are unsightly and provide a breeding site for mosquitoes that could potentially carry the West Nile virus.

Improper maintenance can reduce tire life by 50 percent. You can extend the life of your tires by taking a few minutes each month to check the pressure and tread depth.

Reuse

Buy retreaded tires. Retreading bonds new tread to the existing tire body using a process very similar to the manufacture of a new tire. You don’t have to pay to dispose of the old tire, and the retread is 30 to 50 percent cheaper than a new tire. Two studies conducted by the American Retreaders Association (ARA) concluded that residual body strength in worn tires is at least equal to that of new tires, in some cases doubling the standards requirement of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Federal Motor Vehicle Safety standard test, which applies to all new tires. Retread tires are also regulated by the standards set by the NHTSA.

Recycle

When buying new tires, bring back your old ones to be recycled. Businesses that sell or install tires must take back tires of approximately the same size that they sell. People can recycle up to the same amount of tires that they buy new. The fee for the collection of old tires is included in the cost of new tires. If a service station or retailer refuses your used tires, contact the Region 2 Office of your state.

If you have old tires to get rid of, New York residents can drop off up to four passenger car tires at any NYC Department of Sanitation garage between 8 am and 4 pm, Monday through Saturday, except holidays. Check the Sanitation website for the location of the nearest garage. Tires are collected by a contractor and taken to a facility where they are converted to electricity. Check out the regulations of the state or municipality where you live and hopefully you will find that there are regulations governing recycling. If not, I urge you to make requests of you local government to get such a program started.

Remember the slogan: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Repair

"Together we can make a difference."

peacesojourner

Sunday Reflection - How To Enjoy Life

2012-01-22T10:00:00.001-05:00

This squirrel is taking a break, looking at the world, and enjoying life.

HOW TO ENJOY LIFE

Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay 'them'.

Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.

Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever.

Enjoy the simple things.

Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.

The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who is with us our entire life, is ourselves.

Surround yourself with what you love, whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.

Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.

Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county; to a foreign country but NOT to where the guilt is.

Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.

AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:  

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take,

but by the moments that take our breath away.

British Humour

2012-01-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

*Some 'Quips' from British Newspapers *

Commenting on a complaint from a Mr. Arthur Purdey about a large gas bill, a spokesman for North West Gas said, 'We agree it was rather high for the time of year. It's possible Mr. Purdey has been charged for the gas used up during the explosion that destroyed his house.'
(The Daily Telegraph)

Police are being handicapped in a search for a stolen van, because they cannot issue a description. It's a Special Branch vehicle and they don't want the public to know what it looks like.
(The Guardian)

At the height of the gale, the harbour master radioed a coast guard and asked him to estimate the wind speed. He replied he was sorry, but he didn't have a gauge. However, if it was any help, the wind had just blown his Land Rover off the cliff.
( Aberdeen Evening Express)

* Heard On The London Underground Tube *

A list of actual announcements that London Tube train drivers have made to their passengers...

1) 'Ladies and Gentlemen, I do apologize for the delay to your service. I know you're all dying to get home, unless, of course, you happen to be married to my ex-wife, in which case you'll want to cross over to the Westbound and go in the opposite direction.'

2) 'Your delay this evening is caused by the line controller suffering from E & B syndrome: not knowing his elbow from his backside. I'll let you know any further information as soon as I'm given any.'

3) 'Do you want the good news first or the bad news? The good news is that last Friday was my birthday and I hit the town and had a great time. The bad news is that there is a points failure somewhere between Stratford and East Ham, which means we probably won't reach our destination.'

4) 'Ladies and gentlemen, we apologize for the delay, but there is a security alert at Victoria station and we are therefore stuck here for the foreseeable future, so let's take our minds off it and pass some time together. All together now.... 'Ten green bottles, hanging on a wall.....'.'

5) 'We are now travelling through Baker Street ... As you can see, Baker Street is closed. It would have been nice if they had actually told me, so I could tell you earlier, but no, they don't think about things like that'.

6) 'Beggars are operating on this train. Please do NOT encourage these professional beggars. If you have any spare change, please give it to a registered charity. Failing that, give it to me.'

7) During an extremely hot rush hour on the Central Line, the driver announced: 'Step right this way for the sauna, ladies and gentleman... unfortunately, towels are not provided.'

8) 'Let the passengers off the train FIRST!' (Pause ) 'Oh go on then, stuff yourselves in like sardines, see if I care - I'm going home....'

9) 'Please allow the doors to close. Try not to confuse this with 'Please hold the doors open.' The two are distinct and separate instructions.'

10) 'Please note that the beeping noise coming from the doors means that the doors are about to close. It does not mean throw yourself or your bags into the doors.'

11) 'We can't move off because some idiot has their hand stuck in the door.'

12) 'To the gentleman wearing the long grey coat trying to get on the second carriage -- what part of 'stand clear of the doors' don't you understand?'

13) 'Please move all baggage away from the doors.' (Pause..) 'Please move ALL belongings away from the doors.' (Pause...) 'This is a personal message to the man in the brown suit wearing glasses at the rear of the train: Put the pie down, and move your bloody golf clubs away from the door before I come down there and move them for you'

14) 'May I remind all passengers that there is strictly no smoking allowed on any part of the Underground. However, if you are smoking a joint, it's only fair that you pass it round the rest of the carriage.'

In Britain if you travel by train, bus or taxi, you are very likely to hear British humor by the conductors or drivers. They are all comedians :-)

If It Is Thursday It's Going Green - Recycling Is So Simple

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

If It Is Thursday It's Going Green

Here are some simple changes that you can make.

DONATE OLD CELL PHONES: About 130 million mobile phones are retired every year, resulting in more than 65,000 tons of waste — including potentially hazardous materials, such as lead and mercury. A non-profit program the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation will recycle your phone for free into new metal products. You'll find these collection boxes in stores like Radio Shack and The Home Depot. You can learn more at www.call2recy.org.

BATTERIES: Buy rechargeable batteries for electrical gadgets. For every 500 charges, you’ll save 499 batteries from ending up in a landfill.
Sooner or later, all batteries, even rechargeable, are no longer usable. When it's time to dispose of them, you will want to keep them out of the landfill, where they may leach acids and heavy metal pollutants into the soil and groundwater. Look for centers that recycle them instead, and buy only types that you know your center handles.

DISPOSABLE CAMERAS: Quick and convenient though they may be, disposable cameras produce a lot of solid waste—not just the camera body, but also the foil and cardboard packages. About a quarter of the cameras never make it back to the manufacturer to be recycled. A digital camera takes good pictures and generates far less waste, especially since you’ll probably print only the shots you really like.

We can make a difference just by making some small changes in our lifestyle!

CHILDREN: If your efforts to encourage the children away from their video games have been ineffective, consider involving them in games that get them thinking about more worthwhile subjects. CO2FX, for instance, explores the connection between global warming and political and economic factors.

Remember the 3 R's: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle

*****

Remembering Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

2012-01-16T13:00:00.000-05:00

Let's Continue to Move Forward Together

Today is Martin Luther King Day. On this day we celebrate the life and legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who devoted his life to the pursuit of justice and equality for all.

President Ronald Reagan signed the King Holiday Bill into law on November 2, 1983—fifteen years after the assassination of the civil rights leader. A congressman from Michigan introduced the legislation just a few months after Dr. King’s death in 1968, but it took years of petitions, politics, and personal appeals from Coretta Scott King to get it passed.

Today, as we celebrate the 83rd anniversary of Dr. King's birth, I am reminded of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, where Dr. King delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech.

"I traveled with friends and neighbors from Massachusetts to Washington, D.C. We caught the bus at midnight and arrived in D.C. in the early hours of August 28th.

We were filled with the passion and promise of change, ignited by the idea that, just maybe, if enough people showed up, the world would understand we were not satisfied with the current conditions of racism and the exclusion of so many in the United States.

After arriving in the Capital, we joined the organized march from the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial. We stood in front of the podium, close enough to see and hear the speakers. The "Big Six" organizers of the march were Dr. King, of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference; James Farmer, of the Congress of Racial Equality; John Lewis, of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee; A. Philip Randolph, of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters; Roy Wilkins, of the NAACP; and Whitney Young Jr., of the National Urban League. The event included musical performances by Marian Anderson and Mahalia Jackson.

The written demands of the march were the passage of meaningful civil rights legislation; the elimination of racial segregation in public schools; protection for demonstrators against police brutality; a major public-works program to provide jobs; the passage of a law prohibiting racial discrimination in public and private hiring; a $2 an hour minimum wage; and self-government for the District of Columbia, which had a black majority.

The events were emotional, as 250,000 people from all walks of life, of different complexions, cultures and faiths, joined hands. Together we sang "We Shall Overcome." On that day our lives were changed forever. We wept, we laughed, we experienced joy and, most importantly, we returned to our homes with a renewed commitment to make a difference in the world. We were asked to take the message of a call for change back to our various communities.

I recently came across a paper that I had written on that day in 1963. Here is what I wrote:

"I pledge I will not relax until victory is won.

I pledge to carry the message to my friends and my neighbors back home and arouse them to an equal commitment and equal effort.

I will march and I will write letters.

I will demonstrate and I will vote.

I will work to make sure that my voice and my brothers' voices will ring out in all corners of the land.

I pledge my heart, my mind and my body unequivocally and without regard to personal sacrifice, to the achievement of social peace through social justice."

Today, I recognize that I was filled with youthful enthusiasm when I wrote those words. But I feel proud as I realize that during the time that has lapsed since that day, I have done my best to fulfill the pledge.”

**Portions of this were first published in The Buffalo News, New York - January 17, 2009

*****

In 2012, we are remember that we are the change that we are looking for. Let's continue to move forward together for a unified future.

On this special day take a moment to honor Dr. King’s work and reflect on his dream for America. Find out how you can participate in the national day of service and volunteer on Martin Luther King Day

peacesojourner

Sunday Reflection - Remembering Dr. King’s Birthday

2012-01-15T09:00:00.001-05:00

Remembering Dr. King’s Birthday

Today marks the third anniversary of the birth of my on-line blog site ‘Peacesojourner’.

I started this blog on a day that was very symbolic to me because January 15, 2009 was the 80th anniversary of the birth of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Here is what I wrote on my very first blog in 2009:

‘I have read several accounts of people speculating about what Dr. King would think of what is happening in the world today.

During the Civil Rights struggles of the 60's people marched and protested for basic rights such as eating at a lunch counter, attending schools in their own neighborhoods, being hired for a job for which they were qualified, and to exercise the most fundamental right of citizenship, to vote. We demanded justice and equality for everyone, not just the chosen few.

Yes, in many ways we are a better country today, and in some ways, the nation is moving beyond 'The Dream', but a look at recent news headlines tells the real story:

- Palestinian Death Toll in Gaza Approaches 1000 - Cemeteries Running Out of Space

- Bush Admin Official Admits Gitmo Prisoner Tortured

- 4 Charged in Election Night Hate Crimes

- 4,225 men and women from the USA have died in the current Iraq War

- Over 500,000 Lose Jobs in December - Official Unemployment Rate at 7.2%

- Illinois House Votes to Impeach Blagojevich

- A Transit Police Officer in Oakland, CA shot Oscar Grant execution style. He was shot in the back while facedown on the subway platform, unarmed and posing no threat.

I believe that if Dr. King were alive today he would still be trying to make changes for basic human rights. I also believe that he would have been the person chosen to give the prayer at the upcoming inauguration of President Barack Obama, and that he would have been beaming with joy.

Dr. King spoke the following words when he was speaking out about the US involvement in Viet Nam. The words are still very relevant today:

"If we assume that life is worth living and that humans have the right to survival, then we must find an alternative to war. In a day when vehicles hurtle through outer space, and guided ballistic missiles carve highways of death through the stratosphere; no nation can claim victory in war.

The church cannot be silent while humankind faces the threat of nuclear annihilation. If the church is true to her mission, she must call for an end to the arms race.

I am convinced that if we succumb to the temptation to use violence in our struggle for freedom, unborn generations will be the recipients of a long and desolate night of bitterness, and our chief legacy to them will be a never-ending reign of chaos.

Forgiveness is not an occasional act: it is a permanent attitude."

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’

*****

Today is the 83^rd anniversary of the birth of Rev Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

He will never be forgotten. May he Rest in Peace.

THEY SLEW THE DREAMER - LONG LIVE THE DREAM

peacesojourner

If It Is Thursday It's Going Green - Be Green, Live Green, Buy Green

2012-01-12T14:00:00.002-05:00

Remember the 4 R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Repair

Most of us have heard about the importance of making environmentally friendly lifestyle changes. Do you think that "going green” could mean turning your life upside down?

If you believe you don't have the time or money to join the green movement, you might be surprised that you already have some eco-friendly habits. These simple practices make a difference and can help you on your way to living an even greener lifestyle.

If you follow any of the green practices listed below, you just may be greener than you think?

If your household:

• Recycles paper, glass and metal items

• Has swapped plastic bags for cloth bags when shopping

• Utilizes natural sunshine light during the day

• Uses long-lasting fluorescent light bulbs

• Turns light switches off when they leave a room

• Covers windows with curtains to keep out cold air

• Closes the fireplace damper when a fire isn't burning

• Has insulated all heating pipes in the home

• Runs your dishwasher and washing machine only when they are full

• Removes lint from the dryer filter after each use

• Covers pots and pans when cooking

• Cooks food in the microwave instead of the oven

• Uses shower-time efficiently and have installed a low-flow showerhead

If you eat: Locally grown organic foods, a variety of fruits and vegetables and limit your red meat consumption

If you drink: Filtered tap water instead of bottled water

If you buy:

• Organic cotton, bamboo, soy, or hemp clothing

• Reusable products, such as cloth napkins or plastic containers for food storage, rather than the disposable versions

• Natural bath and body products

• Nontoxic cleaning products

• Rechargeable batteries

If you travel…

• By carpool

• By public transportation

• By bicycle or on foot

• In a fuel-efficient vehicle

How are you doing so far?

Let me know how many of these environmentally friendly changes you

and your family have made.

peacesojourner@yahoo.com

Death in the Afternoon

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here his mate is injured and her condition is grave.

He brought her food and attended to her with love and compassion.

Shocked at her death he tries to move her.

Aware that his sweetheart is dead and will never

come back to him, he cries with adoring love.

None know how long he stood beside her and cried,

devastated by the loss.

Finally, aware that she would never return to him, he stands

beside her lifeless body in sadness and sorrow.

Millions of people cried after viewing these photos throughout America, Europe and India . It is said that the photographer sold these pictures for a nominal fee to the most famous newspaper in France. All copies of that newspaper were sold out on the day these pictures were published. And some people think animals don't have a brain or feelings.......... Do animals have souls????

*****

The Death Of The Bird

For every bird there is this last migration;

Once more the cooling year kindles her heart;

With a warm passage to the summer station

Love pricks the course in lights across the chart.

Year after year a speck on the map divided

By a whole hemisphere, summons her to come;

Season after season, sure and safely guided,

Going away she is also coming home;

And being home, memory becomes a passion

With which she feeds her brood and straws her nest;

Aware of ghosts that haunt the heart's possession

And exiled love mourning within the breast.

The sands are green with a mirage of valleys;

The palm-tree casts a shadow not its own;

Down the long architrave of temple or palace

Blows a cool air from moorland scraps of stone.

And day by day the whisper of love grows stronger,

The delicate voice, more urgent with despair,

Custom and fear constraining her no longer,

Drives her at last on the waste leagues of air.

A vanishing speck in those inane dominions,

Single and frail, uncertain of her place.

Alone in the bright host of her companions,

Lost in the blue unfriendliness of space.

She feels it close now, the appointed season:

The invisible thread is broken as she flies;

Suddenly, without warning, without reason,

The guiding spark of instinct winks and dies.

Try as she will the trackless world delivers

No way, the wilderness of light no sign,

The immense and complex map of hills and rivers

Mocks her small wisdom with its vast design.

And darkness rises from the eastern valleys,

And the winds buffet her with their hungry breath,

And the great earth, with neither grief not malice,

Receives the tiny burden of her death.

-- A. D. Hope

A simple poem, but one that has always impressed me for the quiet way it

builds up in force and slowly expands to show her smallness against the

immensity of what she sets out to do.

peacesojourner

The Full Wolf Moon Tonight

2012-01-09T20:30:00.002-05:00

The Full Wolf Moon

Amid the zero cold and deep snows of midwinter, the wolf packs howled hungrily outside Native American villages. The Full Wolf Moon also known as the Old Moon or the Moon after Yule will be seen tonight. The Full Wolf Moon was named by Native Americans because it took place in January amid the cold and snow.

The Farmer's Almanac states that Indian tribes kept track of the seasons by giving distinctive names to each recurring full moon. The names, such as Wolf Moon, were applied to the entire month in which each occurred, so we are in Wolf Moon month.

To dedicated sky watchers, the moon has its own fascination, especially when it is full, as it will be tonight — the first full moon of 2011 and the biggest full moon this year. After all, this is the only object in the solar system on which we can see a wealth of detail without any optical aid whatsoever.

The first thing to look for is the man in the moon, or perhaps you can more easily see the woman in the moon or even the rabbit in the moon. One way or another, you can probably see a pattern of some sort in the play of bright and dark markings across the moon's face.

The darker areas are known as maria (singular mare, Latin for sea), though they have never seen a drop of water in the last four billion years. The lighter areas are mostly cratered highlands, where relatively recent asteroids have crashed into the moon's surface, exposing bright rock beneath the surface.

This, the first full moon of the year, is known as the Old Moon. Other names are Moon After Yule, and Ice Moon. In Hindi it is known as Paush Poornima. Its Sinhala (Buddhist) name is Duruthu Poya.

I just looked to the sky and locally we have heavy clouds - but here is what I know about Nature, the Full Wolf Moon is just above those clouds and elsewhere in the world there are many who will be able to view the magnificence of this moon.

So, once again, heads up tonight – enjoy Mother Nature’s gift to us.

peacesojourner

Sunday Reflection - The Baptism of Jesus

2012-01-08T14:00:00.000-05:00

Baptism of Christ: Jesus is baptized in the Jordan River by John.

painting by Davezelenka 2005

Today’s is the celebration of the Baptism of Jesus, when Christians officially end the celebration of Christmas and now move on to the next phase in the liturgical year, which is called the “Ordinary Time.”

In this season of endings as well as of new beginnings, we are assured of God’s ever-abiding presence. He remains to guide and protect us.

The Baptism, signals the end of the private life of Jesus Christ and the start of his public ministry. In Matthew 3 - John baptizes Jesus and then, the voice of the Father in heaven was heard, saying: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17)

Some families baptize their children when they are infants. Others wait until the ‘age of reason’ (usually around the age of 12) and there are others who are not baptized until they make it their own personal choice as an adult.

No matter the age of the person, baptism is a commitment on behalf of the child or by an adult and is the ritual of initiation or entry into the community that unites us with Christ Jesus and the Christian community. Thus, in baptism, we bid “goodbye” to our old self and we welcome the “new life” in Christ.

As we celebrate today, let us be reminded of our personal baptismal promise to reject what is evil and to embrace what is good and pleasing before God. If we do this, we, like Jesus, will be pleasing to our Father in heaven.

1 Peter 3:21 - 'this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also - not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.'

In these turbulent times I pray that this reflection about Baptism will help to keep us grounded and that we concentrate on our personal faith journey and not get distracted by the acts of hatred that we witness or hear about daily.

Stay focused and do no harm, in this way we will be able to make positive changes in the world.

peacesojourner

If It Is Thursday It's Going Green - Save Energy in Your Kitchen

2012-01-05T09:00:00.001-05:00

Here we are again at the beginning of a new year. Our minds usually start thinking about ways that we can improve our lives in the upcoming year.

I have written several blogs about energy conservation and how we can improve the environment. There are so many easy ways that we can make small changes and I encourage you to consider the suggestions that I make. Here are some ideas from the local electric company:

The energy used in the average home can be responsible for more than twice the greenhouse gas emissions of the average car. When you use less energy at home, you reduce greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and help protect our environment from the risks of global climate change.

Kitchen

When you can, cook many dishes together when using the oven. If the dishes call for separate temperature settings, just set it in the middle. Adjust cooking times rather than using the oven twice.

Cook with lids on your pans. For example, cooking spaghetti without a lid on the pot can use three times as much energy.
Use the smallest pan and burner needed for the job.
If the oven self-cleans, turn it on just after use, while the oven is still hot.
Don't peek into the oven as you cook. Every time the door is opened, a lot of heat escapes.

Contact a qualified heating contractor if your gas burners have a yellow flame instead of blue. Yellow flames may mean the gas is not burning efficiently.
Seek alternative cooking sources. A pressure cooker cuts cooking time by about two-thirds, and a microwave uses less than half the energy of a conventional electric oven.

Many dishwashers have energy-saving wash cycles that use less water. Using these cycles can save $5-15 per year.

Avoid running small loads in your dishwasher.

A no-heat air-dry feature also can save energy by as much as 15 to 50 percent. If you have an older dishwasher, turn the dishwasher off after the final rinse cycle is complete and open the door. This allows air-drying.

Some dishwashers have heaters to boost water temperature up to 140° or 145°F. However, most dishwashers function well at the 120°F setting. If your dishwasher has a booster heater, turn down your water heater thermostat to 120°F.

If you wash dishes by hand, fill wash and rinse basins instead of letting the water run. This uses half as much water as a dishwasher does.

Use cold water when running your garbage disposal. Cold water congeals grease better and keeps the disposal cooler, helping the unit run more efficiently.

Don’t forget “together we can make a difference”

peacesojourner

New Year's Resolutions -

2012-01-04T11:10:00.003-05:00

New Year's goals:

I cannot believe that three years have passed since the Dr. informed me that I had high cholesterol. She explained that too much cholesterol in the blood could be serious and pose a risk of getting heart disease. This can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

I was surprised to learn that only about 20% of cholesterol comes from the foods you eat. Your body makes the other 80%. Things such as age and family health history affect how much cholesterol your body makes. Unfortunately, there are usually no signs that you have high cholesterol, but it can be detected with a blood test.

She explained that this is a serious diagnosis and should not be taken lightly.

I took a long look at this information and decided that I had to make some changes in my lifestyle. The doctor suggested a change in diet and exercise.
I do not eat meat and my diet is already low in cholesterol but I took a look at what I eat and realized that three things had to go: cheese, egg yolks and desserts.

I had recently read that there are eight healthy foods that are essential to eat every day.

I am happy to report that I never took any medication to reduce the cholesterol but I did start the following food plan. I find all of these foods to be nourishing and tasty. My cholesterol count has been low for the past three years.

Here is the list of eight:

1. Spinach:  A rich source omega-3s and folate, which help reduce the risk of heart disease. 1-cup fresh spinach or a half-cup cooked per day. SUBSTITUTES: Kale, bok choy, romaine lettuce.

   
 2. Yogurt: Helps boost your immune system, provides protection against cancer. Make sure the label says “live and active cultures.” One cup a day. SUBSTITUTES: Kefir, cottage cheese. Plain fat free yogurt is also a perfect base for creamy salad dressings and dips.   

3. Tomatoes: packed with more of the antioxidant lycopene which can decrease your risk of bladder, lung, prostate, breast, skin, and stomach cancers, and coronary artery disease. Eight red cherry tomatoes or a glass of tomato juice per day. SUBSTITUTES: Red watermelon, pink grapefruit, Japanese persimmon, papaya, guava.

4. Carrots: are associated with a reduction in a wide range of cancers, as well as a reduced risk of inflammatory conditions such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. Aim for a half-cup a day. SUBSTITUTES: Sweet potato, pumpkin, butternut squash, yellow bell pepper, mango.

   
5. Blueberries: Host to more antioxidants than any other North American fruit, blueberries help prevent cancer, diabetes, and age-related memory changes. Rich in fiber and vitamins A and C can also boost cardiovascular health. 1-cup fresh blueberries a day, or a half-cup frozen or dried.   SUBSTITUTE: Açai, an Amazonian berry.

6. Black Beans: All beans are good for your heart and brain. They’re full of anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that have been shown to improve brain function. A daily half-cup serving provides 8 grams of protein and 7.5 grams of fiber, and is low in calories and free of saturated fat.   SUBSTITUTES: Peas, lentils, and pinto, kidney, fava, and lima beans.

 
7. Walnuts: Richer in heart-healthy omega-3s than salmon, loaded with more anti-inflammatory polyphenols than red wine. A serving of walnuts is about 1 ounce, or seven nuts. Substitutes: Almonds, peanuts, pistachios, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts, (all unsalted).

8. Oats: Awarded the FDA’s first seal of approval. They are packed with soluble fiber, which lowers the risk of heart disease. Oats have 10 grams of protein per half-cup serving, they deliver steady muscle-friendly energy.   SUBSTITUTES: Quinoa, flaxseed, amaranth, and pearl barley.

Thought this just might be of interest to someone who is reading. I truly believe that Nature provides us with what we need and I always explore natural healing before even thinking about taking a prescription medication.

Wishing you all a safe, happy and healthy year in 2012.

peacesojourner

01/01/12 - Happy New Year to You

2012-01-01T10:00:00.002-05:00

Today is 01/01/12

We can start the new year with a clean slate.

I had many happy, memorable experiences in 2011

and I am looking forward to the new year because I know

that I will have many new adventures daily.

Wishing my family and friends
a Happy New Year filled with many new adventures!

peacesojourner

Have You Gained A Few Pounds Over the Holiday?

2011-12-31T13:00:00.001-05:00

I received this new information in an e-mail message :-)

I'M SO GLAD I FOUND OUT ABOUT THIS!

The correct way to weigh yourself:

I can't believe I was doing it wrong all these years.

WE MUST SPREAD THE WORD.

If It Is Thursday It's Going Green -Winterizing the Home

2011-12-29T09:00:00.001-05:00

Remember the 4 R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Repair

With winter's arrival why not give some of these Do It Yourself (DIY) projects a try? The installation costs should easily be recouped with improved efficiency or later if you decide to sell your home. You'll be saving cash and going green at the same time.

1. Replace Your Showerhead

Install a new showerhead, and you could save more than 2,300 gallons of water annually, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Using less hot water will cut your energy bills, and your local utilities may provide a rebate, too. EPA vouches that models labeled WaterSense provide a satisfying shower. Your showerhead is a water-waster if it fills a gallon bucket in 20 seconds. Estimated Cost: $10 to $60

2. Add Aerators to Your Faucets

You can save another 500 gallons of water annually simply by replacing a standard aerator, which delivers more than 2.5 gallons per minute, with a low-flow one, with a flow of 0.5 to 1 gallon per minute. The low-flow aerators will cut water and energy usage while maintaining adequate water pressure. Estimated Cost: $2 to $10

3. Install a Water-Efficient Toilet

EPA estimates that a family of four that replaces a home's older toilets with WaterSense labeled models will, on average, save more than $90 annually on their water bill and $2,000 over the toilet's lifetime. For how to install tips go to ‘Bob Vila can help you’ online or you can hire a contractor for about $150. Estimated Cost: $200 or more

4. Switch to CFLs

As the days get shorter, we usually keep the lights on longer. If you have not already done this in your home now is a good time to switch from traditional incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs). Energy-Star qualified CFLs use 75% less energy and last up to 10 times longer than incandescents.

Start with your five most frequently used fixtures and you can save more than $65 annually. The good news is that the CFL bulbs last for several years and seldom have to be replaced.Estimated Cost: $2 to $15 for specialty bulbs

5. Install a Programmable Thermostat

With a programmable thermostat you can preset temperatures for your home that will automatically reduce heating and cooling when you don't need it as much. Energy Star says an average household can save about $180 annually on their energy bills by properly setting the programmable thermostat and maintaining those settings.

There is a low-voltage wiring installation that will involve 2 to 10 wires. If you don't feel comfortable following the instructions, a heating-and-air-conditioning contractor will probably charge you $75 to $150 for installation. Estimated Cost: $25 to $250

6. Stop Chimney Drafts

Even with the damper closed, in winter your home's heated air goes up the chimney and in summer hot outdoor air comes down. When you are not using your fireplace, plug the flue with a chimney balloon like the Draftstopper from Battic Door Energy Conservation Products.

For a really cheap alternative, you can make one out of an old seat cushion or a pillow placed in a heavy plastic bag. Stuff the cushion into the flue and tie a long tail to it, so you don't forget about it the next time you make a fire. J Estimated Cost: $55 for ready-made draft stopper

As we gradually change our habits of wasteful consumption we are simultaneously saving money and the environment.

”Don’t forget, “together we can make a difference!”

peacesojourner

Celebrating Kwanzaa: December 26 - January 1, 2012

2011-12-27T07:00:00.002-05:00

Kwanzaa is a non-religious African American holiday that celebrates family, community, and culture. It is celebrated for seven days: December 26 - January 1^st.

Dr. Maulana Karenga, professor and chairman of Black Studies at California State University, Long Beach, created Kwanzaa in 1966. He founded US, a cultural organization, and started to research African "first fruit" (harvest) celebrations. Dr. Karenga combined aspects of several different harvest celebrations, such as those of the Ashanti and those of the Zulu, to form the basis of Kwanzaa.

The name Kwanzaa is derived from the phrase "matunda ya kwanza" which means "first fruits" in Swahili. The traditional Kwanzaa greeting is "Habari gani?"

Each family celebrates Kwanzaa in its own way, but celebrations often include songs and dances, African drums, storytelling, poetry reading, and a large traditional meal. An African feast, called a Karamu, is held on December 31.

Kwanzaa celebrates what its founder called the seven principles of Kwanzaa, or Nguzo Saba (originally Nguzu Saba—the seven principles of blackness), which Karenga said, "is a communitarian African philosophy. These seven principles comprise Kawaida, a Swahili term for tradition and reason. Each of the seven days of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of the following principles, as follows:

“The first candle lit is the center black one that represents the first principle- Umoja, meaning "Unity," on the first day. To strive for, and to maintain, unity in the family, community, nation, and race.

On the second day, the second candle lit is the farthest red one on the left, this represents the second principle- Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves, and speak for ourselves.

On the third day, the third candle is lit on the farthest right green one which represents Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility): To build and maintain our community together and make our brothers' and sisters' problems our problems, and to solve them together.

We return back to the next red on from the left for the fourth day, representing Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics): To build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses and to profit from them together.

The fifth day, we light the next green candle from the right which represents Nia (Purpose): To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.

Going back to the red side, on the sixth day, the next candle from the left closest to the black candle is lit representing Kuumba (Creativity): To do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it.

This falls on New Year's Eve also and usually when we feast. It is at this feast we have someone in the family recite, and usually an elder, reads:

Strive for discipline, dedication, and achievement in all you do. Dare struggle and sacrifice and gain the strength that comes from this.

Build where you are and dare leave a legacy that will last as long as the sun shines and the water flows.

Practice daily Umoja, Kujichagulia, Ujima, Ujamaa, Nia, Kuumba, and Imani. And may the wisdom of the ancestors always walk with us. May the year's end meet us laughing, and stronger.

May our children honor us by following our example in love and struggle. And at the end of next year, may we sit together again, in larger numbers, with greater achievement and closer to liberation and a higher level of life. Harambee.

On the seventh day of Kwanzaa, the last green candle is lit, which represents Imani (Faith): To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.”

The last day is no different, except that after the principle is discussed, the candles are extinguished and Kwanzaa is over.

Kwanzaa gifts, or zawadi, are usually given daily. The gifts recognize achievements of the recipient while stressing the themes and principles of the holiday. Gifts related to education, African and African-American culture, or the arts make good zawadi.

Happy Kwanzaa

Today is Boxing Day, December 26th

2011-12-26T09:00:00.001-05:00

Today is Boxing Day, a traditional English holiday which extends Christmas giving.

Despite its name, Boxing Day has nothing to do with pugilistic competition. Nor is it a day for people to return unwanted Christmas presents.

Boxing Day began in England during the Middle Ages, and the tradition continued through the Victorian era. Wealthy family households would celebrate Christmas on Christmas day but this meant that their servants had to continue with their normal work and so, in effect, missed out on the celebration. To compensate for this the wealthy families would set aside 26th December as the time for their servant's Christmas.

Work duties would be dropped to a minimum with family members assuming some of the responsibilities of the servants such as keeping the fireplace stocked with coal, greeting visitors themselves and supplying the servants with a good Christmas dinner. The term "Boxing day" refers to the gift that the family gave to each servant - wrapped in box.

In the past people like the postman (mailman), refuse collector and milkman would call at the houses they serviced for a Christmas 'Box' but nowadays they are given a 'tip' when the homeowner sees them.

Even though many no longer remember the traditional reason for Boxing Day it is celebrated in Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

My childhood memories of Boxing Day are that we spent the day together as a family, we relaxed, enjoyed our presents and ate leftovers from the Christmas dinner. Also our dad did not have to go to work on that day.

Boxing Day is just one of the British bank holidays recognized since 1871 that are observed by banks, government offices, and the post office.

On this Blessed Day Christ the Saviour is Born

2011-12-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

Silent night, holy night

All is calm, all is bright

Round yon Virgin Mother and Child

Holy Infant so tender and mild

Sleep in heavenly peace

Silent night, holy night!

Shepherds quake at the sight

Glories stream from heaven afar

Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia!

Christ, the Saviour is born

Silent night, holy night

Son of God, love's pure light

Radiant beams from Thy holy face

With the dawn of redeeming grace

Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth

Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth.

Noche de paz, noche de amor,

Todo duerme en derredor;

Fieles velando allí en Belén

Los pastores, la madre también,

Y la estrella de paz,

Y la estrella de paz.

Written by Austrian priest Father Josef Mohr -

Melody composed by Franz Xaver Gruber. In 1859

Wishing you and yours peace on this blessed day.

peacesojourner

The History of the Christmas Tree

2011-12-23T11:00:00.002-05:00

What does the decorated evergreen tree have to do with the birth of Jesus? The answer is ‘very little’. There are cedar trees in Lebanon but this is not even close to Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus.

Centuries before the birth of Jesus the ancient pagans, Druids, Egyptians, Chinese, and Hebrews celebrated the Winter Solstice, (Dec. 21st), the day of the year that the Sun begins its ascent in the sky, thereby ushering a fertile time of planting and bountiful harvests. The evergreen tree represented eternal life and the promise of replenishment during the cold winter months. Apples and other fruit were hung upon the tree to represent the plentiful food to come. Candles were lit to symbolize the warmth and brightness of the sun. While the Christmas tree is generally associated with Christ, it predates the history of Jesus by many centuries.

Until about 1700, the use of Christmas trees appears to have been confined to the Rhine River District in Germany. From 1700 on, when lights were accepted as part of the decorations, the Christmas tree was well on its way to becoming a tradition. This Christmas tree tradition most likely came to the United States with Hessian troops during the American Revolution, or with German immigrants to Pennsylvania and Ohio.

However, the custom spread slowly. The Puritans banned Christmas in New England. Some Fundamentalist Christian groups oppose Christmas trees and even the celebration of Christmas for their members. This includes the Jehovah's Witnesses. Part of the opposition is because the custom of decorated trees originated in Paganism. They also oppose trees because of a literal interpretation of the quotation from Jeremiah 10:2-4:

"Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathens are dismayed at them. For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not." (KJV).

The Christmas tree market was born in 1851 when Catskill farmer Mark Carr hauled two ox sleds of evergreens into New York City and sold them all. By 1900, one in five American families had a Christmas tree, and 20 years later, the custom was nearly universal.

Christmas tree farms sprang up during the depression. Nurserymen couldn't sell their evergreens for landscaping, so they cut them for Christmas trees. Cultivated trees were preferred because they have a more symmetrical shape then wild ones.

Trees and branches can be made purposeful as well as symbolic. The tree is a symbol of a living Christmas spirit and brings into our lives a pleasant aroma of the forest.

Today, the Christmas tree has become accepted by most Christians, by people of other faiths, and for those who do not follow an organized religion. It has become a popular late-December tradition and part of our present-day culture.

I enjoy the Christmas tree and have many fond memories of decorating the tree with my family when I was a child, and when my own children were growing up. But it is important to remember that the tree and the decorations have more to do with enjoying the celebration of the changing seasons and absolutely has nothing to do with the purpose of the Christmas season, which is to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

However, to blend the two occasions an angel or star is often placed at the top of the tree, representing the host of angels or the Star of Bethlehem from the Nativity.

That seems to be a creative way to make a peaceful solution to this dilemma -

don't you agree?

peacesojourner

Bloggers Unite: National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day

2011-12-21T07:00:00.001-05:00

Bloggers Unite:

Today is National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day

December 21^st marks the winter solstice, the first day of winter and the longest night of the year. Each year since 1990, this day has also been designated National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day, to bring attention to the tragedy of homelessness and to remember our homeless friends and neighbors who have died the previous year.

Here in Buffalo, New York, the inclement weather is a problem. Those who sleep outdoors on the ground or in a sleeping bag, tent, or improvised shelter such as a large cardboard box, are in extreme danger from snow, sleet and below freezing temperatures. There are many reports of loss of toes, fingers, or a nose from frostbite, and even death during the winter months.

I live in the inner city and in my daily activities I come in contact with many homeless people. Many of the long time homeless are suffering from drug or alcohol addictions, chronic illnesses or mental illness.

Not all homeless people look like the men pictured here.

There are the newly homeless, those who have recently lost their homes and/or their employment that now find themselves living on the streets.

Each homeless person has a story, and most of their stories are more similar to the stories of those with homes than they are different.

Today I am thinking of a gentleman named Stan. I first met him two years ago when I was serving a hot meal outdoors to homeless and low-income people. He also came to a weekly food pantry that I volunteer at. He was awkward in his social skills but he was always polite – he rarely smiled. Stan is in his forties and is a loner. He walks stiffly upright with a military bearing and always carries two large shopping size bags, equally balanced, one in each hand. He told me that he had no family.

He lived in a room in a local boarding house and like so many others he planned his daily schedule by which soup kitchen was open and what times the meals were served.

In the spring Stan told me that he had lost his room because he couldn’t keep up the payments. He stopped coming to the food pantry (he no longer had a kitchen area to cook food). During the next few months I would see him walking around the neighborhood and he started sleeping overnight at a bus stop that was one street over from my house. When I drove home late at night I could see him sleeping on the wooden bench. I was concerned and prayed that he would come to no harm.

We are now in freezing temperatures and I haven’t seen Stan in a few months. I don’t know a lot about him but I do know that he was a decent human being and I enjoyed chatting with him. I miss seeing him and I still pray for his safety.

As I reflect for a moment about the kind of sad, desolate deaths we have seen here in the recent past. I recall that demolition crews found three frozen homeless men at different dates and locations, inside vacant houses in the city. Just this week a man was killed in a fire in an abandoned house. Last year a man was found frozen to death in a doorway downtown. As a small crowd gathered around his lifeless body many in the community recognized him, knew him by sight, but had never taken the time to ask him his name. No one came to identify him.

How many have died known only as John or Jane Doe?

One, whose name was known, James, 46, was found on a downtown sidewalk. He had been severely beaten and died a few hours later. The body of Clarence, 32, turned up inside an abandoned house.

Many homeless people are ‘invisible’ to local residents, workers or shoppers who pass them by without giving them a second glance.

To some extent there is a sense of camaraderie in the culture of the streets. Many of the homeless acknowledge each other but it is an unwritten rule, don’t ask too many questions of the other person. They will tell you just what they want you to know. No more, no less.

This city does have a Mission, the Salvation Army and homeless shelters. Emergency cold-weather shelters opened by churches or community agencies, which may consist of cots in a heated warehouse, or temporary Christmas Shelters. There are some homeless who choose to stay outside in the freezing weather.

Statistics tell us that the average age of death of a homeless person is about 50 years.

When people die in these desolate ways, what does it say about us as a community? How much should we care?

Perhaps if more of us took the time to learn their names and listen to their stories, we could work together to end homelessness in our community.

To those, named and unnamed, homeless who died on the streets of this country this year

- may their deaths not be in vain.

We will remember them today.

May they rest in peace.

peacesojourner

Sunday Reflection - Fourth Week of Advent

2011-12-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

The Fourth Week of Advent

The Christmas season - those weeks immediately after Thanksgiving through the first of January - is a time of great anticipation and hopefulness.

It is also a time of paradox, a contemplative time, an ambiguous season of bitter cold and cozy homes with family and friends gathered around the fireplace, of solstice celebrations and holiday lights, of reverence and loneliness, of renewal and dormancy.

At Christmas time we are called to lift our spirits with good cheer and merry laughter; to appreciate the commonplace and simple things, like an evergreen tree set against the backdrop of a steel grey sky. The senses turn inward. The days grow darker. We burn candles and recall old dreams, dreams of our youth or years to come. We enjoy the bounty of local farmers - pumpkins, gourds, apples, squash. Cold weather vegetables and herbs, like parsley and thyme, come into renewed vigor with the first frost. It is a time when too many hunger for a warm embrace, to be loved, and for kindness.

It is a time of evening carols and lessons, a time when special rose incense is burned, a time marked by contemplation, anticipation, waiting, watching, preparation in the Christian calendar for the birth of Jesus Christ. For a few short weeks, the world is sanctified with the fullness and richness of these paradoxes.

As a Quaker, we believe that there is "that of God" in each person, regardless of a person's race, creed, social status, gender, level of education, or whether a person believes in God or not. This belief is an integral part of Quaker faith and practice. It invites us to remember, to recognize the sacred nature of the human heart. It invites us into the self-revealing loving presence of God and of Christ. But how can we find this "Christ centeredness" in such paradox of the season?

For me, the spirit of Christ is the spirit of kindness, love and compassion. It is a consciousness that pervades heart and mind. The Light of Christ is a way of knowing the path of goodness.

Christmas reminds me of these important lessons and a deeper knowing of the Light of Christ!

A Seasonal Reflection -by Valerie Brown

From the Kirkridge Retreat Center

Take time to be quiet and to rest

Offer simple hospitality to others

Express gratitude

peacesojourner

March 2003 - December 2011 - IT'S OVER!

2011-12-17T09:16:00.010-05:00

March 2003 - U.S. President George W. Bush stated:

"Every effort would be made to spare the lives of innocent civilians"

12/15/11 -we hear the declaration "IT'S OVER"

American Deaths

Since war began (3/19/03):

4483

U.S. Wounded

320,000 Vets Have Brain Injuries

War Veterans’ Concussions Are Often Overlooked

18 Vet Suicides Per Day?

Iraqi Casualties 1,455,590

Other Coalition Troops - Iraq

319

US Military Deaths - Afghanistan

1,849

Other Military Deaths - Afghanistan

974

Contractor Employee Deaths - Iraq

1,487

Journalists - Iraq

348

Academics Killed - Iraq

448

Sources: DoD, MNF, and iCasualties.org

Never any evidence of 'weapons of mass destruction'.

4,483 U. S. Troops were killed in action

Over 1million Iraq citizens killed

$800 billion of US taxpayers money has been spent.

I declare this War as Bush's folly! May God have mercy on us all!

peacesojourner

If It Is Thursday It's Going Green - Thoughtful Gift Giving

2011-12-15T11:00:00.002-05:00

Remember the 4 R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Repair

As we approach the Christmas season and are caught up in the hustle and bustle of activities, give some thought to energy saving purchases.

Plan to purchase a living Christmas tree with roots attached. Later you can plant it in your yard or donate it to your local parks department. If it’s a cut tree, recycle it. Shred the live tree and use the mulch in the garden around evergreen shrubs and trees.

If purchasing new holiday lights, consider seasonal light emitting diode, or LED, strings of lights. These can use up to 95 percent less energy than conventional bulbs, and they last seven times longer. Using holiday lighting wisely can lower power consumption. More strings of lights means more energy used - try reducing the number this season.

Be financially responsible: Overspending during the holidays will not only increase your stress now, but will leave you feeling anxious for months afterward as you struggle to pay the bills. Step back from the excessive gift-giving and practice simplicity, creativity and basic human kindness

Donate old toys: As the Holidays approach, help the children to sort through their toys and clothes so that any that are in good condition, but no longer used, can be shared with others. Items can be donated to a local children’s hospital, pre-schools or thrift shop where they can find a good home.

Going green is the way to go when planning gifts. - When you give someone a “green gift” it means you have taken the time to consider the environment. - It means you have given a gift that shows something about you - and that you have created a ripple effect whose final result is too significant to calculate.

1. Make a gift. Be conscious of the materials you choose and create something to show someone you care. Picture frames and mirrors are perennial favorites and people tend to keep them.

2. Buy a gift that adds a lasting element to someone’s life. A houseplant or a live organic herb garden can be wonderful gifts, they live on and bring joy (and oxygen) into someone’s home. Buy a calendar printed on 100% recycled paper with daily affirmations and uplifting quotes. These will remain with the person for a year at least, and can make a difference everyday.

3. Buy a stress-reducing present for someone. Get your best friend a gift certificate for a one-hour massage, facial or acupuncture treatment. How about a free week of yoga classes, Pilates or personal training sessions? You will be doing more for the recipient of these gifts than initially meets the eye.

4. Give to a charity. Instead of giving something directly, consider giving to a charity on behalf of a friend or family member. Many charities now allow you to track the progress being made as the result of your contribution. By doing this you are setting up a powerful connection for someone that can go way beyond a simple donation.

5. Buy something educational and entertaining. A book, CD or DVD can make a fantastic present especially when the content is uplifting.

Does the holiday have you feeling depressed? Help others - it is the best antidote to seasonal sadness. Find someone who is struggling more than you are, lend them a helping hand, and remember the real meaning of the holidays. Jesus is the reason for the season!

Don’t forget, “together we can make a difference!”

peacesojourner

Meerkats

2011-12-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

Meerkats

Strange little creatures Meerkats are

Bobbing up and down, looking afar

One of them is always the scout

He’s on patrol, always looking out

When he’s had enough its time for another

The next scout might be his sister or brother

His duty is over, time to eat and sleep

Every now and then, he will have a peep

Just to make sure all is quite right

And get ready for his next shift later that night

Helen Antonas

*****

I visit the local zoo as often as I can and enjoy viewing the larger animals. I pass elephants, bears, lions, tigers, kangaroos and zebras as I walk around, but my favorite place to rest and observe is the area where the meerkats live.

The meerkat is a small mammal and a member of the mongoose family. It inhabits all parts of the Kalahari Desert in Botswana and South Africa.
In Africa it is known as the sun angel, as it is believed that it protects villages from the moon devil or the werewolf, which may attack stray cattle or a lone tribesmen.

The meerkat is small weighing on average about 2 pounds and uses its tail to balance when standing upright. It has small black crescent-shaped ears that can close when digging to keep sand out. Like cats, meerkats have binocular vision, a large peripheral range, depth perception, and eyes on the front of their faces. At the end of each of a meerkat's "fingers" is a non-retractable, strong ½ inch long, curved claw used for digging underground burrows and digging for prey.

They primarily feed on insects but also eat lizards, snakes, scorpions, spiders, plants, eggs, small mammals, millipedes, centipedes and, more rarely, small birds.

I really enjoy watching them because one ‘worker’ will frantically work nonstop until he becomes tired and at that time a replacement worker takes over and the first goes for some rest. They forage in a group with one "sentry" on guard watching for predators while the others search for food. They are agile hunters. Sentry duty is usually approximately an hour long.

They are very social creatures living in colonies that average 20-30 members. They regularly groom each other to strengthen social bonds. Meerkats demonstrate altruistic behavior within their colonies; When a predator is spotted, the meerkat performing as sentry gives a warning bark, and other members of the gang will run and hide in one of the many bolt holes they have spread across their territory. The sentry meerkat is the first to reappear from the burrow and search for predators, constantly barking to keep the others underground. If there is no threat, the sentry meerkat stops signaling and the others feel safe to emerge.

They also babysit the young in the group. Females that have never produced offspring of their own often lactate to feed the alpha pair's young, while the alpha female is away with the rest of the group. They also protect the young from threats, often endangering their own lives. On warning of danger, the babysitter takes the young underground to safety and is prepared to defend them if the danger follows. If retreating underground is not possible, she collects all of the young together and lies on top of them.Meerkats have been known to engage in social activities, including what appear to be wrestling matches and foot races.

I often feel incredulous as I watch them taking care of each other, nothing is left to chance by these tenacious creatures who can also display great tenderness towards each other.

"All for one and one for all" seems to be the motto for these tiny warriors living throughout the African continent. Small and vulnerable, they make their way by working together, rarely taking on danger alone. Meerkats have an average life span of 12-14 years. These intelligent animals are extremely communicative and posses a large vocabulary.

Meerkats live in communities and depend on one another for survival. They flourish in their environment and are not endangered.

As I watch them I sometimes find myself wishing that humans could mirror their behavior. All have equal importance and they rotate the jobs that they do so that each learns how to enhance the life skills that will keep them all safe and protected. We could learn a lot from them.

"All for one and one for all" - or in today's language

Together we can!