Pain in your heart that seems caused by another can lead you understanding God's heart in your life. He loves you as you are. He asks that you love others, as they are. Not as you wish them to be, not as they treat you - but as He loves you - no conditions, no rules; Love freely given.
Your percieved pain, when you think someone has hurt your heart, is the birth of learning to love another as God loves - with no conditions. When you remove the conditions from your love the pain fades away.
Loving is not what hurts you, and not being loved by another is not what hurts. Trying to love and be loved only on your terms and not having those conditions honored by others hurts you.
But it is you that set the terms, the conditions, that you would love by....So you have hurt yourself.
""If you don't do this and do act in this way, then I will love you"" - that is what we do to ourselves. Love withheld for behaviors is not love - it is punishment and reward....You sully love when you use it in this way.
And it is human's rules you set to love by when you give conditions to be met, not God's. God's love has no rules to be met, no behaviors to be learned. Love is to always be given freely, not earned...not doled out like coins - GIVEN.
Letting go of your conditions frees you to give love, no matter what others do or how they love. Being human and having to relearn this is normal. We fall into thinking that we have to meet the conditions of those around us, family, friends, society, in order to be loved...We think again that we can not love one who wrongs us by human's rules or those around us will not understand.
Let them be confused but follow the light that is love in your own heart. Love anyway. No rules.
Accept that we hurt each other, that we can not live under others conditions. Forgive them the hurts done as you forgive yourself for being human and feeling a hurt was done.
Give and share love where ever you see it needed, with no rules, no conditions and love on with peace in your heart.
The gift of love freely given can not be wrapped, but it can be carried away in a heart with a smile and a hug behind it that will not be forgotten.
Never say you have no gift to give - your love for those around you IS the gift the never fades.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Choose to love
Each love you nourish in your life teaches you more about how to love. I try to learn to show love to others as I wish others would show love to me. When I exercise my ability to love gently and kindly, it nourishes everyone I touch but it only changes ME. It changes the way my heart feels.
When I am hurt and forgive it, I feel eased, released from the stress of being upset or emotionally in pain. I can't change how another person is feeling. I can only decide how I will feel.
When I can offer help it lets my heart smile. It is in how we interact with others, how WE each decide to act toward others, that the hope of a good world is brought closer to reality.
A seed can only grow to be like the flower is came from. You can loosen the soil, locate it in the proper amount of sun, keep the weeds away and feed it - offering your labor, your time and your care to the seed. Still, a zinnia seed will only grow to be a zinnia flower.
With your extra care, it will be the best and most healthy zinnia flower it can be, but it will still be a zinnia. What comes from your care of it is your increased exposure to sunshine, more exercise of your muscles, more contemplation of what you can do to help it flower better, thinking caring thoughts - YOU grow stronger for your care of the flower.
People can only be what the seed in them is designed to be - we can't change that, even in ourselves. But our loving care of each other can help us all be the best at being what we are.
It is YOU who changes from giving love to others. You learn to encourage, not discourage; to offer a hand up, not a hand out; to feed a spirit as well as a body. Your heart learns to see that they don't need to change, any more than you do - you just need to accept them as they are and yourself as you are.
Love them just as they are and learn to see what you can do to encourage them to be their very best self. Love yourself JUST as you are and know that each time you overcome your anger or hurt to forgive a friend that the world IS a better place. Be the best and most loving YOU that you can every day.
Lu 12:31 But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.
If God is love and the kingdom of God is composed of love, then the kingdom is in each heart that loves - your heart and mine. Seek to love freely, to forgive easily, to show others how to love as you wish love would be showed to you here.
Plant your feet in love and expand the border of His Kingdom on this planet. His Kingdom come, His will be done. In His Unconditional and Divine Love I trust. Choose to love.
When I am hurt and forgive it, I feel eased, released from the stress of being upset or emotionally in pain. I can't change how another person is feeling. I can only decide how I will feel.
When I can offer help it lets my heart smile. It is in how we interact with others, how WE each decide to act toward others, that the hope of a good world is brought closer to reality.
A seed can only grow to be like the flower is came from. You can loosen the soil, locate it in the proper amount of sun, keep the weeds away and feed it - offering your labor, your time and your care to the seed. Still, a zinnia seed will only grow to be a zinnia flower.
With your extra care, it will be the best and most healthy zinnia flower it can be, but it will still be a zinnia. What comes from your care of it is your increased exposure to sunshine, more exercise of your muscles, more contemplation of what you can do to help it flower better, thinking caring thoughts - YOU grow stronger for your care of the flower.
People can only be what the seed in them is designed to be - we can't change that, even in ourselves. But our loving care of each other can help us all be the best at being what we are.
It is YOU who changes from giving love to others. You learn to encourage, not discourage; to offer a hand up, not a hand out; to feed a spirit as well as a body. Your heart learns to see that they don't need to change, any more than you do - you just need to accept them as they are and yourself as you are.
Love them just as they are and learn to see what you can do to encourage them to be their very best self. Love yourself JUST as you are and know that each time you overcome your anger or hurt to forgive a friend that the world IS a better place. Be the best and most loving YOU that you can every day.
Lu 12:31 But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.
If God is love and the kingdom of God is composed of love, then the kingdom is in each heart that loves - your heart and mine. Seek to love freely, to forgive easily, to show others how to love as you wish love would be showed to you here.
Plant your feet in love and expand the border of His Kingdom on this planet. His Kingdom come, His will be done. In His Unconditional and Divine Love I trust. Choose to love.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Shine on
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us.
We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you.
We are all meant to shine, as children do. We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us, it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
The above was orignally written by Marianne Williamson not by Nelson Mandela.
When others don't understand why I care so deeply and give so much, I will not do less to suit their view of life.
I know sometimes we can only love a little from our broken and sad hearts. I will not care less to "match" their level of love. I will keep sharing my love so there is more love in the world.
I want to show them that even broken and sad hearts can learn to love and trust again and that caring for each other is caring for ourselves.
We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you.
We are all meant to shine, as children do. We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us, it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
The above was orignally written by Marianne Williamson not by Nelson Mandela.
When others don't understand why I care so deeply and give so much, I will not do less to suit their view of life.
I know sometimes we can only love a little from our broken and sad hearts. I will not care less to "match" their level of love. I will keep sharing my love so there is more love in the world.
I want to show them that even broken and sad hearts can learn to love and trust again and that caring for each other is caring for ourselves.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Forgive me
Why is it so HARD to remember - "Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, [b]do ye even so to them[/b]:....matthew 7:12
Some don't return my phone calls, some don't come when I think I need help. Some can't soothe me when I hurt. Some say unkind things about me when I'm not there. Some have taken things from me without asking. Some don't show up when they say they will be over. Some hurt my feelings with words or actions. Some just seem to be mean to me.
To do what makes me feel I am on the right path and get the warm fuzzy feeling inside, I have to remember we are each just human. I have done these things to others in the past. I have to forgive the hurt I am feeling and return only loving attention and care.
I don't find it easy. Striking out when we hurt is built into the body as a defense mechanisim. It shouldn't to be built into our hearts. We can look at the hurt done to us and realize that, in many cases, it is our sense of importance and pride that is hurting. Is that really worth losing a friend over?
I can no longer return tit for tat. I'm just not going to get into a lose-lose situation again if I can help it. You do what you need to do - I will answer when you call, return your calls, come when you need me, share what I have and try to give what you ask me for. I will continue to help where I can, to fill the needs I see around me....I will try to soothe hurts, ease hearts, offer caring attention....even if that is NOT what you have shared with me -
Why? Because I believe we are all in this together - we are ONE - each a part of the whole. If I hurt you I am hurting myself. I want to love myself. I want to love all of myself. That means loving you, too.
The book doesn't say 'do unto others AS they do unto you', it says to do what you WISH they would do for you...
I wish to be loved. To have help when I need it. To have food when I am hungry. To have companionship when I am lonely. To have what I need when it's needed...I wish to be loved by others and to love them freely.
I can't do that and count the hurts done to me. I am letting go of the hurts and only counting the love. I will count the smallest sign of loving care and watch as those small, loving actions increase.
I believe Love is all there is. Why would I try to track and remember things that are "notlove"?
If you encourage the smallest kindness of others and offer only kindness, it will change the world.
Maybe I won't be able to live up to the ideal every day. I'm human. I can't get vengeful and vindictive and want to hurt someone back....but if I can slow down even one minute and think to try and let the hurt flow over me instead of through me, I am slowing notlove and encouraging Love....I gotta try.
So do unto others as you WISH others would do unto you - feed them, house them, hold them while they cry, laugh with them, and love them.
Forgive them for being humans, love them for being part of your life forever.
Some don't return my phone calls, some don't come when I think I need help. Some can't soothe me when I hurt. Some say unkind things about me when I'm not there. Some have taken things from me without asking. Some don't show up when they say they will be over. Some hurt my feelings with words or actions. Some just seem to be mean to me.
To do what makes me feel I am on the right path and get the warm fuzzy feeling inside, I have to remember we are each just human. I have done these things to others in the past. I have to forgive the hurt I am feeling and return only loving attention and care.
I don't find it easy. Striking out when we hurt is built into the body as a defense mechanisim. It shouldn't to be built into our hearts. We can look at the hurt done to us and realize that, in many cases, it is our sense of importance and pride that is hurting. Is that really worth losing a friend over?
I can no longer return tit for tat. I'm just not going to get into a lose-lose situation again if I can help it. You do what you need to do - I will answer when you call, return your calls, come when you need me, share what I have and try to give what you ask me for. I will continue to help where I can, to fill the needs I see around me....I will try to soothe hurts, ease hearts, offer caring attention....even if that is NOT what you have shared with me -
Why? Because I believe we are all in this together - we are ONE - each a part of the whole. If I hurt you I am hurting myself. I want to love myself. I want to love all of myself. That means loving you, too.
The book doesn't say 'do unto others AS they do unto you', it says to do what you WISH they would do for you...
I wish to be loved. To have help when I need it. To have food when I am hungry. To have companionship when I am lonely. To have what I need when it's needed...I wish to be loved by others and to love them freely.
I can't do that and count the hurts done to me. I am letting go of the hurts and only counting the love. I will count the smallest sign of loving care and watch as those small, loving actions increase.
I believe Love is all there is. Why would I try to track and remember things that are "notlove"?
If you encourage the smallest kindness of others and offer only kindness, it will change the world.
Maybe I won't be able to live up to the ideal every day. I'm human. I can't get vengeful and vindictive and want to hurt someone back....but if I can slow down even one minute and think to try and let the hurt flow over me instead of through me, I am slowing notlove and encouraging Love....I gotta try.
So do unto others as you WISH others would do unto you - feed them, house them, hold them while they cry, laugh with them, and love them.
Forgive them for being humans, love them for being part of your life forever.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Day is Done
By fire or candle, light was labor. You were sparing with it. There was no running down to the gas station for more propane or to the neighbors for candles...The light went OUT when the sun went down. And we let it.
After a day of hauling wood, cutting sod, feeding animals, and teaching kids how to do the same, the sun went down. Readings or recitations by firelight were entertainment and schooling. Singing was a release of the heart after a day of exercising your muscles...break time. If it was too dark to read, too dark to mend harness, we gathered together and told each other stories.
Families didn't have limitless supplies of acholol or drugs to 'relax' with. Forget TV. They found their own ways to unwind at the end of the day.
We are losing the art of family relaxation. We all need it; it's hardwired into almost everything on the planet. We need the dark. We need to rest.
Even out plants grow better when given dark time in their day. Too much light makes them spindly and thin. Our animals produce better when they are given "night" in their barns.
There is no prize for "Most Exausted Human".
There is a prize for families that relax together. That time of almost sleepy but still awake that we can share builds a bond that lasts. You don't have to do anything but be there and communicate with your family. Make it "Joke of the Day" and everyone tells one. Or just sit in the yard and stare at the consellations together.
Find a way to spend a few minutes each day glad that the night is come and day is done with your family. Even if it is the panacea of TV, snuggling down together to watch it makes the bonds between you stronger. It helps you all rest better knowing there are those who care who are with you each night.
Kick back and party, play cards, sing, tell stories - RELAX - but do it together.
"Col 2:2 That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love ........."
After a day of hauling wood, cutting sod, feeding animals, and teaching kids how to do the same, the sun went down. Readings or recitations by firelight were entertainment and schooling. Singing was a release of the heart after a day of exercising your muscles...break time. If it was too dark to read, too dark to mend harness, we gathered together and told each other stories.
Families didn't have limitless supplies of acholol or drugs to 'relax' with. Forget TV. They found their own ways to unwind at the end of the day.
We are losing the art of family relaxation. We all need it; it's hardwired into almost everything on the planet. We need the dark. We need to rest.
Even out plants grow better when given dark time in their day. Too much light makes them spindly and thin. Our animals produce better when they are given "night" in their barns.
There is no prize for "Most Exausted Human".
There is a prize for families that relax together. That time of almost sleepy but still awake that we can share builds a bond that lasts. You don't have to do anything but be there and communicate with your family. Make it "Joke of the Day" and everyone tells one. Or just sit in the yard and stare at the consellations together.
Find a way to spend a few minutes each day glad that the night is come and day is done with your family. Even if it is the panacea of TV, snuggling down together to watch it makes the bonds between you stronger. It helps you all rest better knowing there are those who care who are with you each night.
Kick back and party, play cards, sing, tell stories - RELAX - but do it together.
"Col 2:2 That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love ........."
Friday, September 25, 2009
How may I help you?
I care about those around me. I try to show it. How do you know it's needed if you aren't the one who needs it?
When I care about others I often see things that I think need filling -- from sugar bowls to hearts. I think it's needed because I have needed it before. A gallon of milk, a gas tank, a hug, a quiet talk...I can only recognize "need" as I have known my own needs.
There are some needs we all have and can't mistake. There are some needs unique to each of us.
How do you know you are filling what's truely needed when it's not you who needs it and it's not a need you have had?
I don't. I can only offer to fill the needs as I see them.
I'm really filling the needs [i]I know[/i] in those I meet; My needs. I can only hope it's close enough to what they really need that it helps them.
Can you fill a need if you have not known the need?
I think we can. I think we can see another's plight and aid them even when we don't understand why they think they need something we have never needed so badly. It's not a need you have had, it's not important to you, but you reach out to help them fill it...I think that is love; To help another be all of the best that they are.
I need to love and be loved. I see that as a need in all of us. Whether it truely is a need or not, I see it that way.
When I see someone who needs to be loved it touches my heart. My heart is ripped when I can't fill that need. When all expression of caring is denied by them you can't soothe their hurts. They will not let others love them.
When I see someone who has stopped loving, it makes my heart ache for them. Denying yourself that need, to me, is the same as standing in a blizzard naked. To stop loving others is to kill something in yourself, as I see it.
So the basic reason I fill the needs around me is because I NEED to love. To show people they are loved is secondary, really.
That's a hard thing to say. I want to be caring for others to show them there is one who cares for us all, but I know now it's my need to give love that I am filling...
When I fill anyone's need, I am filling my own....I'll keep reaching out to each I meet. Now I think I understand why I do.
When I care about others I often see things that I think need filling -- from sugar bowls to hearts. I think it's needed because I have needed it before. A gallon of milk, a gas tank, a hug, a quiet talk...I can only recognize "need" as I have known my own needs.
There are some needs we all have and can't mistake. There are some needs unique to each of us.
How do you know you are filling what's truely needed when it's not you who needs it and it's not a need you have had?
I don't. I can only offer to fill the needs as I see them.
I'm really filling the needs [i]I know[/i] in those I meet; My needs. I can only hope it's close enough to what they really need that it helps them.
Can you fill a need if you have not known the need?
I think we can. I think we can see another's plight and aid them even when we don't understand why they think they need something we have never needed so badly. It's not a need you have had, it's not important to you, but you reach out to help them fill it...I think that is love; To help another be all of the best that they are.
I need to love and be loved. I see that as a need in all of us. Whether it truely is a need or not, I see it that way.
When I see someone who needs to be loved it touches my heart. My heart is ripped when I can't fill that need. When all expression of caring is denied by them you can't soothe their hurts. They will not let others love them.
When I see someone who has stopped loving, it makes my heart ache for them. Denying yourself that need, to me, is the same as standing in a blizzard naked. To stop loving others is to kill something in yourself, as I see it.
So the basic reason I fill the needs around me is because I NEED to love. To show people they are loved is secondary, really.
That's a hard thing to say. I want to be caring for others to show them there is one who cares for us all, but I know now it's my need to give love that I am filling...
When I fill anyone's need, I am filling my own....I'll keep reaching out to each I meet. Now I think I understand why I do.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Where are you going?
Joh 16:12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.
You can't bear them now. Interesting phrase. He would not hurt their hearts further or load them down with things they did not need to know yet, but He wanted them to know He would be sharing more thoughts with them later.
What he had to say NOW was hard enough to share with them. The rest could wait.
Joh 16:16 A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.
Joh 16:18 They said therefore, What is this that he saith, A little while? we cannot tell what he saith.
They didn't understand. He is telling them he's going to die, but he calls it "you won't see me and then, after a little while, you WILL see me...He SAYS he doesn't die, just go where he can't be seen.....but "He'll be back."
Joh 16:20 Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.
You will be sad and upset, but it will be a good thing that I have died to this world...and you will understand it - later.
Joh 16:22 And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.
Now He knows He has made his friends sad. They understand he's going to die...and - like us - they STILL thought it meant "dead". Even though they had seen him revive the dead.....so they know that the spirit can be returned to a body....the SPIRIT didn't die.
He tries to comfort them by saying He will see them later and you will never miss me again...but they probably didn't believe Him.
Dead is dead, right?
So when people don't believe me I know I am in good company.
What happens when we "die"? Where do we go? Can WE come back? He tried to tell them.
I try to tell you... http://1way2see.com/thebook.html
You won't die. You change, but you are alive and loving on. I can't say I will return here to see anyone after, but I will say I'll be watching and loving you and that I'll see you when you get there.
Next time I will take another swing at grace. It's why I believe that each one of us will meet later.
You can't bear them now. Interesting phrase. He would not hurt their hearts further or load them down with things they did not need to know yet, but He wanted them to know He would be sharing more thoughts with them later.
What he had to say NOW was hard enough to share with them. The rest could wait.
Joh 16:16 A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.
Joh 16:18 They said therefore, What is this that he saith, A little while? we cannot tell what he saith.
They didn't understand. He is telling them he's going to die, but he calls it "you won't see me and then, after a little while, you WILL see me...He SAYS he doesn't die, just go where he can't be seen.....but "He'll be back."
Joh 16:20 Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.
You will be sad and upset, but it will be a good thing that I have died to this world...and you will understand it - later.
Joh 16:22 And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.
Now He knows He has made his friends sad. They understand he's going to die...and - like us - they STILL thought it meant "dead". Even though they had seen him revive the dead.....so they know that the spirit can be returned to a body....the SPIRIT didn't die.
He tries to comfort them by saying He will see them later and you will never miss me again...but they probably didn't believe Him.
Dead is dead, right?
So when people don't believe me I know I am in good company.
What happens when we "die"? Where do we go? Can WE come back? He tried to tell them.
I try to tell you... http://1way2see.com/thebook.html
You won't die. You change, but you are alive and loving on. I can't say I will return here to see anyone after, but I will say I'll be watching and loving you and that I'll see you when you get there.
Next time I will take another swing at grace. It's why I believe that each one of us will meet later.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Truth
I've covered this before but it comes back over and over. The Divine Love is so pure it feels like liquid truth...I can't say it better.
Truth is so much a part of love that they can't be separated.
When you use untruths to those you love it twists something in you because YOU know it is not truth.
The other person now has false information to work with between you. They believe you. Your lie is their truth.
Now the balance is off between you but you are the only one who knows it.
When all the lies you have told come together in the day you need the truth between you they are hurt, your love together is hurt badly and you have shown yourself as untrustworthy.
Really - is it worth looking perfect to lie?
We're not perfect. We make mistakes. We hurt each other. But if you keep it all in the daylight, nothing to hide, it can be dealt with between you.
I'll find the verses that go with this later, it is in the book.
But I am glad I have kept what I do and where I walk in the light. I have no shame and nothing to hide in my life now.
I have done things in the past that shame me. I like walking without that in my life.
It's hard to be honest. And it's hard to find honest words that don't hurt. But it's loving to be truthful with each other. It's not loving to lie.
I gotta go with the love.
Truth is so much a part of love that they can't be separated.
When you use untruths to those you love it twists something in you because YOU know it is not truth.
The other person now has false information to work with between you. They believe you. Your lie is their truth.
Now the balance is off between you but you are the only one who knows it.
When all the lies you have told come together in the day you need the truth between you they are hurt, your love together is hurt badly and you have shown yourself as untrustworthy.
Really - is it worth looking perfect to lie?
We're not perfect. We make mistakes. We hurt each other. But if you keep it all in the daylight, nothing to hide, it can be dealt with between you.
I'll find the verses that go with this later, it is in the book.
But I am glad I have kept what I do and where I walk in the light. I have no shame and nothing to hide in my life now.
I have done things in the past that shame me. I like walking without that in my life.
It's hard to be honest. And it's hard to find honest words that don't hurt. But it's loving to be truthful with each other. It's not loving to lie.
I gotta go with the love.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
It is what it is. It's all good
It's hard for me to accept what I know is a truth sometimes.
It's all good.
It doesn't always look that way from here.
When I find myself trying to "make life better" for someone I have to be very careful to just take care of the right things and leave them to chose their own way through life. Whatever they are doing in life, it's what they are needed as here. What they are is not just what we percieve them as, but perfect for the need that they will fill in this life.
We don't often see the perfection of ourselves. We almost never see the perfection in another. Trained to look for the "lacks", we neglect the fine qualities in each other and ourselves.
Each of us choses how to live while we are here within the circumstances we find ourselves in. Hard times make for hard choices. But we keep walking through life. We get up from adversity over and over. We presever. Even when we just hide under the covers from life for a time, we are preserving ourselves for the time we will be needed. Humans are amazing survivors.
Every one of us, as we are, are alive. Some of us are living and some of us are just existing until we can find the strength to live again. But we are making it - with a little help from our friends.
We can make things better for one another. A phone call, a cup of sugar, a ride - all small things. But they show we care and the one we touch knows they are not alone. Maybe sometimes all we can do is love each other where we stand and offer our tears. But we care and we share. People are good.
Accept people as they are. Love them as they are. Don't expect them to be what YOU think they should be. They are what they are and it is all good.
Give lovingly, but walk your own path and do them the great respect of letting them walk theirs.
The hearts are his to heal. The spirits are His to waken. Our only task is to love 'em while we've got 'em.
It's all good.
It doesn't always look that way from here.
When I find myself trying to "make life better" for someone I have to be very careful to just take care of the right things and leave them to chose their own way through life. Whatever they are doing in life, it's what they are needed as here. What they are is not just what we percieve them as, but perfect for the need that they will fill in this life.
We don't often see the perfection of ourselves. We almost never see the perfection in another. Trained to look for the "lacks", we neglect the fine qualities in each other and ourselves.
Each of us choses how to live while we are here within the circumstances we find ourselves in. Hard times make for hard choices. But we keep walking through life. We get up from adversity over and over. We presever. Even when we just hide under the covers from life for a time, we are preserving ourselves for the time we will be needed. Humans are amazing survivors.
Every one of us, as we are, are alive. Some of us are living and some of us are just existing until we can find the strength to live again. But we are making it - with a little help from our friends.
We can make things better for one another. A phone call, a cup of sugar, a ride - all small things. But they show we care and the one we touch knows they are not alone. Maybe sometimes all we can do is love each other where we stand and offer our tears. But we care and we share. People are good.
Accept people as they are. Love them as they are. Don't expect them to be what YOU think they should be. They are what they are and it is all good.
Give lovingly, but walk your own path and do them the great respect of letting them walk theirs.
The hearts are his to heal. The spirits are His to waken. Our only task is to love 'em while we've got 'em.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
You're not lost
Where you are is where you belong right now. It's not easy to see the point in where we are standing when it's hard, hurtful, lonely or depressing to us. But it is where we are needed.
When we are true to ourselves we are walking for him. Truth is love. Love is God. God is Love. We may feel our response to a situation is harsh, over the top, or even hurtful to another. He will always use the truth of us to show His truth to the world.
Your heart is known and treasured just as it is today. The power of His love does not need physical strength or communication skills to show His love is real here; It only needs a heart that loves and cares, like His heart loves and cares.
He knows what we see as our imperfections. He knows what we see as our negative feelings and thoughts. He knows each heart that He brings in touch with another heart and will guide you to where you are needed and what He needs from you He will show you in a way you will understand.
Where ever it is that you are today, all He asks is that you love the ones he brings you. Show them loving care and kindness He has shared with you, and that is all you are asked to do.
Sometimes that loving care requires harsh words of truth. Other times it only needs the touch of a hand to a shoulder. Words are unneeded. However you express your care and love to another, JUST the way you express it, is why He has brought you to where you are.
You are never where He is not there. You are never blind to His call if He needs you to see and hear Him. He will open your heart and give you the inspiration you need to share that love.
When you are hurt and confused, stop. Look around you. Listen to your heart. When you find what you really want to do, it will be what He has put in your heart. Then do it, knowing He has it all covered and that you are just the right heart to do what He sees is needed. Trust Him to always know more than you do, see further than you can and love all the hearts involved.
You can be in the middle of nowhere, with nothing at hand and no one there and there will be a reason you are standing there. You are not lost. He needed you there, for just that length of time for a reason.
You are not lost. You are not forgotten. You are not ever out of His heart. We can't always see it from here, but the love is always holding you. Cling to that love and walk your days in peace.
When we are true to ourselves we are walking for him. Truth is love. Love is God. God is Love. We may feel our response to a situation is harsh, over the top, or even hurtful to another. He will always use the truth of us to show His truth to the world.
Your heart is known and treasured just as it is today. The power of His love does not need physical strength or communication skills to show His love is real here; It only needs a heart that loves and cares, like His heart loves and cares.
He knows what we see as our imperfections. He knows what we see as our negative feelings and thoughts. He knows each heart that He brings in touch with another heart and will guide you to where you are needed and what He needs from you He will show you in a way you will understand.
Where ever it is that you are today, all He asks is that you love the ones he brings you. Show them loving care and kindness He has shared with you, and that is all you are asked to do.
Sometimes that loving care requires harsh words of truth. Other times it only needs the touch of a hand to a shoulder. Words are unneeded. However you express your care and love to another, JUST the way you express it, is why He has brought you to where you are.
You are never where He is not there. You are never blind to His call if He needs you to see and hear Him. He will open your heart and give you the inspiration you need to share that love.
When you are hurt and confused, stop. Look around you. Listen to your heart. When you find what you really want to do, it will be what He has put in your heart. Then do it, knowing He has it all covered and that you are just the right heart to do what He sees is needed. Trust Him to always know more than you do, see further than you can and love all the hearts involved.
You can be in the middle of nowhere, with nothing at hand and no one there and there will be a reason you are standing there. You are not lost. He needed you there, for just that length of time for a reason.
You are not lost. You are not forgotten. You are not ever out of His heart. We can't always see it from here, but the love is always holding you. Cling to that love and walk your days in peace.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Love does NOT hurt.
All the songs and poems moaning the pains of love and I bought it. Love hurts. We teach it to each other all our lives and the older we get the more shy many are of caring again. They can't take the pain, the hurt to their heart will be too much to bear, they say.
They are wrong.
Loving does not hurt.
Repeating: Love does NOT hurt.
It won't hurt your heart - ever - to love.
What hurts is having to stop loving.
What hurts is when you can't love anymore.
What hurts is when one you love is gone, or doesn't love you anymore.
Stopping love hurts.
Loving doesn't.
I have hurt from being left, having someone die, dogs getting run over, cats the same, kids moving away, and more. I have hurt in love before. But it is NOT the love that hurt. It's trying to let go of the love that hurts.
I don't know how to tell you how that thought - love does not hurt - spun my head. I am stunned by how backwards we got it. Love does not hurt.
Don't stop loving; Stopping the love hurts.
They are wrong.
Loving does not hurt.
Repeating: Love does NOT hurt.
It won't hurt your heart - ever - to love.
What hurts is having to stop loving.
What hurts is when you can't love anymore.
What hurts is when one you love is gone, or doesn't love you anymore.
Stopping love hurts.
Loving doesn't.
I have hurt from being left, having someone die, dogs getting run over, cats the same, kids moving away, and more. I have hurt in love before. But it is NOT the love that hurt. It's trying to let go of the love that hurts.
I don't know how to tell you how that thought - love does not hurt - spun my head. I am stunned by how backwards we got it. Love does not hurt.
Don't stop loving; Stopping the love hurts.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
I AM
I am thy shield
I am the LORD
I am the Almighty God
I am waxed old
I am a stranger
I am the daughter
I am the the son
I am Abraham's servant
I am faint
I am at the point to die
I am the God of Abraham
I am with thee
I am old
I am a smooth man
I am thy son
I am weary
I am the LORD God of Abraham
I am with thee
I am the God of Bethel
I am God Almighty
I am bereaved
I am God
I am to be gathered unto my people
I am the LORD
I am the Almighty God
I am waxed old
I am a stranger
I am the daughter
I am the the son
I am Abraham's servant
I am faint
I am at the point to die
I am the God of Abraham
I am with thee
I am old
I am a smooth man
I am thy son
I am weary
I am the LORD God of Abraham
I am with thee
I am the God of Bethel
I am God Almighty
I am bereaved
I am God
I am to be gathered unto my people
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Buggin Me
A caterpillar, hatches, eats, grows and builds a cocoon. It just does what it feels the need to do when it feels the need to do it.
The butterfly destroys the cocoon as it is "born". It lifts it's wings and moves them to dry them. It flies away.
They are the same creature. It does what comes naturally to it. What does the caterpillar need to know of flying? What does the butterfly know of building a cocoon? They don't even eat the same way.
They know what they need for the body they are in at the time. When it becomes the next form, it learns a new way to live. They don't need to 'worry' about what comes next. No one teaches them, they just LIVE. They do what they need to do to survive.
If humans can be compared to the caterpillar and our spirits are likened to the butterflies, why are we so concerned with "flying"? What's wrong with just being loving humans while was are human?
We know how to be loving, caring humans. We chose how we live. Love or don't love. Care or don't care, it's our choice.
To make this world a little better, all we have to be is caring of it and loving of each other. Hug someone today. Call a friend and share your time with them. Love someone. Live, love, give and share lovingly.
Yes, there is more to life than being human in a body. But right now, that's what we are. It's no more "wrong" to be human with human needs than it is for the caterpillar to eat leaves.
Now, we live here.
Later, we fly!
And when we get our wings, I'll fly a lap around the universe with you.
The butterfly destroys the cocoon as it is "born". It lifts it's wings and moves them to dry them. It flies away.
They are the same creature. It does what comes naturally to it. What does the caterpillar need to know of flying? What does the butterfly know of building a cocoon? They don't even eat the same way.
They know what they need for the body they are in at the time. When it becomes the next form, it learns a new way to live. They don't need to 'worry' about what comes next. No one teaches them, they just LIVE. They do what they need to do to survive.
If humans can be compared to the caterpillar and our spirits are likened to the butterflies, why are we so concerned with "flying"? What's wrong with just being loving humans while was are human?
We know how to be loving, caring humans. We chose how we live. Love or don't love. Care or don't care, it's our choice.
To make this world a little better, all we have to be is caring of it and loving of each other. Hug someone today. Call a friend and share your time with them. Love someone. Live, love, give and share lovingly.
Yes, there is more to life than being human in a body. But right now, that's what we are. It's no more "wrong" to be human with human needs than it is for the caterpillar to eat leaves.
Now, we live here.
Later, we fly!
And when we get our wings, I'll fly a lap around the universe with you.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Sharing
We were talking about teaching and nourishing our spirits on the board today. I had this email come through last week. I'm sharing here because it explains so much so simply.
A man reached the pearly gates and before he decided to walk through, ask St. Peter to show him heaven and hell, so he could chose. The Saint agreed and led him to a room with two doors.
Behind the first door was a hugh table full of people with a feast spread out in front of them. Each person had long spoons instead of arms. All the people there were starving. They were fighting with each other trying to get to the food, but the spoons were too long to let them get it to their mouths even when they did get a bit..."That's hell", said St. Peter.
Behind the next door was the same scene, a hugh table of food and people all around it. These people also had long spoons instead of arms, but they were well fed, healthy, laughing and chatting...."That's heaven", said St. Peter, as he closed the door.
"What is the difference?", the man asked, "Both places were the same but for the way the people acted...."
Saint Peter answered, "The people in heaven have learned to feed each other."
********
A man reached the pearly gates and before he decided to walk through, ask St. Peter to show him heaven and hell, so he could chose. The Saint agreed and led him to a room with two doors.
Behind the first door was a hugh table full of people with a feast spread out in front of them. Each person had long spoons instead of arms. All the people there were starving. They were fighting with each other trying to get to the food, but the spoons were too long to let them get it to their mouths even when they did get a bit..."That's hell", said St. Peter.
Behind the next door was the same scene, a hugh table of food and people all around it. These people also had long spoons instead of arms, but they were well fed, healthy, laughing and chatting...."That's heaven", said St. Peter, as he closed the door.
"What is the difference?", the man asked, "Both places were the same but for the way the people acted...."
Saint Peter answered, "The people in heaven have learned to feed each other."
********
It's not just food we need here. We need to feed each other's spirits. That is why I opened a new forum on my website last week. It's a place for comfort and feeding your spirit.
My readers here are welcomed there. The link is on the side bar - Dead is Just a Four Letter Word. When you get there, click on the "Forum" link in the menu. You have to register to post, but you can read all you want.
This is my "coming out". Many have not made the connection between this site and that one. I maintain them both. They are mine. Also on the side bar here is Forward Ho, which is my daily blog. I'm going there now to post the new site.
I hope you will join us.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
The perfect gift for everyone
There is only one you.
In all of creation,
from this tiny planet
to the furthest reaches of the universe,
only
one
you.
No other one anywhere
can ever have or be.
Your self.
Sharing your love with another
is the most precious gift
you can give,
for there is no other that can offer it.
They can recieve it only from you.
When someone offers you
their time,
their thoughts,
their trust -
it can not be duplicated
or replaced
by those same things from any other.
Each time
we take someone
into our lives
it creates a joining,
unique,
between us;
our self and that one other soul.
are a pair
that can never be recreated
by any other love
in our lives.
Each of us is unique.
Each friendship is unique.
Each love is unique.
You can share everything you are
with everyone you meet
and it will never be the same
as it was with another one.
It will still be love.
It will still be precious.
It will still bring joy.
But it will never be the same
as any other love
you have in your life.
You can not give the love you have
for one to another.
You can only grow a new
and unique love
with that other.
So in each person
resides the capacity
to love many
like they are the only love
in their life.
Because each one you love
is the only one of them
in creation.
Only you can give this gift,
your love,
to another here.
It can not be taken from you,
forced from you,
stolen from you or
duplicated by another.
Love is always,
and only
a unique gift.
The rarest of treasures,
and most precious of gifts
is when one you love
loves the only one of you.
A giving of your love
creates a great love.
You always have
your unique love
to give to any other
you choose.
(return to top)
In all of creation,
from this tiny planet
to the furthest reaches of the universe,
only
one
you.
No other one anywhere
can ever have or be.
Your self.
Sharing your love with another
is the most precious gift
you can give,
for there is no other that can offer it.
They can recieve it only from you.
When someone offers you
their time,
their thoughts,
their trust -
it can not be duplicated
or replaced
by those same things from any other.
Each time
we take someone
into our lives
it creates a joining,
unique,
between us;
our self and that one other soul.
are a pair
that can never be recreated
by any other love
in our lives.
Each of us is unique.
Each friendship is unique.
Each love is unique.
You can share everything you are
with everyone you meet
and it will never be the same
as it was with another one.
It will still be love.
It will still be precious.
It will still bring joy.
But it will never be the same
as any other love
you have in your life.
You can not give the love you have
for one to another.
You can only grow a new
and unique love
with that other.
So in each person
resides the capacity
to love many
like they are the only love
in their life.
Because each one you love
is the only one of them
in creation.
Only you can give this gift,
your love,
to another here.
It can not be taken from you,
forced from you,
stolen from you or
duplicated by another.
Love is always,
and only
a unique gift.
The rarest of treasures,
and most precious of gifts
is when one you love
loves the only one of you.
A giving of your love
creates a great love.
You always have
your unique love
to give to any other
you choose.
(return to top)
Sunday, May 10, 2009
My mom made me do it.
Growing up, you do a lot of things you may not understand the importance of because your Mother told you to...not 'asked', TOLD.
Mom's don't always have the luxury of time to explain what's going on and why things need to be done. They just tell you to do them and expect it to get done NOW, not tomorrow, now.
Sometimes this makes the kids just a tad confused. It may not make any sense to them. (it can wait, why do I have to do it, you want WHAT?)
It may mess up their plans for the day. Sometimes it messes up their heads. (You WILL apologize to your brother! ((but he started it!)) NOW.) Kids live through it.
Moms won't change, They are trying to guide their children through life. Guide, cajol, push, drag, or compel, they try to get us taught in a way that will keep us out of jail and out of trouble with others. If, when we are on our own, we know the right thing to do in the correct places, it is partly because Mom (or dad or step mom or grams) told us it had to be that way.
It was no different for Jesus. He KNEW he was the Son of God, he was a Divinely led teacher, he had power to change the weather and bring the dead to life.
He still had a mom.
She raised him the best she knew how. She tried to take care of him. When he wandered off, she went to look for him. When he was grown, he took care of her. They were together at a family wedding one day.....
John 2
And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there. And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage.
And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.
She didn't say, would you or could you or will you please. She simply stated the problem. They have no wine.
Not all communication is with words...any kid can tell you that. You know the look she would have given with those words; That "this is a problem you can fix, so fix it" look. All moms seem to have one like that, so they can insist you do something without saying another word.
Jesus was to be a famous, beloved savior to all that lived. There might have been a plan in place that would include a more earth shattering miracle than this one for his first time out.
Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.
This was not the time to do miracles. He said so. He looked back at his mom and said "who are you to tell me what to do? I've been grown and gone for years now. (you're not the boss of me...)
But she is the mom. She would have up'ed her "look" to "THE look" and turned away, knowing he would not let her down.
His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.
Then she walked back to the party, knowing the family would have what they needed, because she had taken care of the problem by putting it in the hands of one who could fix it. Her part was done. Her son would handle it.
Because she told him to.
Now here is a good place to put "What would Jesus do?" I'm betting he rolled his eyes (after her back was turned) and let out that heavy sigh that all kids express when mom just dumps it on them and expects them to get it done....
It didn't matter that she was no longer the boss of him or that it wasn't the right time in Jesus' plan - His mom said the time was now and the need was wine.....Not gold, not love, not life, not healing - wine for a wedding party. Right. now.
So - what DID Jesus do?
His first public miracle, that's what. Why? Because God ordained it? (okay, maybe he did). But because his mother asked it of him. (okay, told him to).
And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.
(A firkin is about ten gallons. That's some big water pots. You are talking at least 60 gallons of wine....)
Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim.
And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it.
Mom's don't always have the luxury of time to explain what's going on and why things need to be done. They just tell you to do them and expect it to get done NOW, not tomorrow, now.
Sometimes this makes the kids just a tad confused. It may not make any sense to them. (it can wait, why do I have to do it, you want WHAT?)
It may mess up their plans for the day. Sometimes it messes up their heads. (You WILL apologize to your brother! ((but he started it!)) NOW.) Kids live through it.
Moms won't change, They are trying to guide their children through life. Guide, cajol, push, drag, or compel, they try to get us taught in a way that will keep us out of jail and out of trouble with others. If, when we are on our own, we know the right thing to do in the correct places, it is partly because Mom (or dad or step mom or grams) told us it had to be that way.
It was no different for Jesus. He KNEW he was the Son of God, he was a Divinely led teacher, he had power to change the weather and bring the dead to life.
He still had a mom.
She raised him the best she knew how. She tried to take care of him. When he wandered off, she went to look for him. When he was grown, he took care of her. They were together at a family wedding one day.....
John 2
And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there. And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage.
And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.
She didn't say, would you or could you or will you please. She simply stated the problem. They have no wine.
Not all communication is with words...any kid can tell you that. You know the look she would have given with those words; That "this is a problem you can fix, so fix it" look. All moms seem to have one like that, so they can insist you do something without saying another word.
Jesus was to be a famous, beloved savior to all that lived. There might have been a plan in place that would include a more earth shattering miracle than this one for his first time out.
Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.
This was not the time to do miracles. He said so. He looked back at his mom and said "who are you to tell me what to do? I've been grown and gone for years now. (you're not the boss of me...)
But she is the mom. She would have up'ed her "look" to "THE look" and turned away, knowing he would not let her down.
His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.
Then she walked back to the party, knowing the family would have what they needed, because she had taken care of the problem by putting it in the hands of one who could fix it. Her part was done. Her son would handle it.
Because she told him to.
Now here is a good place to put "What would Jesus do?" I'm betting he rolled his eyes (after her back was turned) and let out that heavy sigh that all kids express when mom just dumps it on them and expects them to get it done....
It didn't matter that she was no longer the boss of him or that it wasn't the right time in Jesus' plan - His mom said the time was now and the need was wine.....Not gold, not love, not life, not healing - wine for a wedding party. Right. now.
So - what DID Jesus do?
His first public miracle, that's what. Why? Because God ordained it? (okay, maybe he did). But because his mother asked it of him. (okay, told him to).
And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.
(A firkin is about ten gallons. That's some big water pots. You are talking at least 60 gallons of wine....)
Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim.
And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it.
They put it into pitchers and took it to be approved. That's what the tradition was. The head host or best man had to taste it and say it was okay to serve.
When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (he didn't know where it came from or that it was just water about a minute earlier) (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom, and saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.
Note that he didn't just make acceptable wine. They would have served the best they had at the beginning of the party. Jesus, who's time was not yet, and who no longer had a boss he called Mom, made an excellent wine....Because his mom would expect no less than his best.
And you know that when she saw the smile on the governer's face she would have looked at Jesus where he stood near the pots of water and just GLOWED a smile at him that said, "Thank you, my son. I knew I could count on you!"
And he would have grimaced and turned back to talking to the relatives he hadn't seen in a while and to the friends he had with him and ignored her the rest of the party. That's how kids are sometimes. We resent the things our parents put to us. We hate having our plans messed up.
But we love them, so we do it.
This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.
This was seen and testified to by his disciples later. ("I was there when he turned plain water into wine. No, I don't know how he does it. But you should'a been there! What a party!!")
Even after she made him do something he didn't want to, even after she spoiled her son's plans, they traveled together.
After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days.
You can bet they talked this out on the way. She and he would have done the "I knew you could", "Ya, but MOMMMM"...until they got to the part where they forgave each other and exchanged I love you's and hugs. They worked it out.
Mothers are not always easy to have. There are good ones, bad ones, sick ones and sad ones. But if you have a mother today, go spend some time with her.
It's what she would want you to do if you asked her.
And it's what Jesus would do....
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
If there is a God, why doesn't he take me?
It's a question anyone may cry out in the dark of sorrow or grief that feels too deep to survive. It's not a question that can really be answered, except in your own heart.
The answer, for me, was "Because somebody here still needs you".
It isn't a matter of me being "good" enough to go home or a matter of the days here being promised to me as "easy". It's that, because I love and care, even through my own hurts, there is one who will need the loving care only I can give them.
Maybe I will have to get through today and many tomorrows to see who it is and how I may help them, but me being on the planet is going to be exactly what someone needs one day.
Maybe I will be standing in just the right spot at just the right time and meet just the right person to change negative to positive. It might be as simple as taking a tree branch out of the road after a storm and preventing an accident or as dramatic as going into a burning building to get someone out. I don't know. I can't know what all the tomorrows will bring.
I do know that when I read, "If you want to know if your job here is done, check and see if you are still breathing." - I knew it for a true statement. I'm still here, still breathing. Still needed.
It's hard to see what point there is to our lives sometimes. Many times there seems to be no point at all. But while you are here what we do, even all alone, affects us all.
And for one person somewhere, sometime, I may be the only one who can do what needs to be done just the way only I would do it.
So for those of you wandering around wondering why you can't get a ticket home - Hang on.
Somebody needs you.
The answer, for me, was "Because somebody here still needs you".
It isn't a matter of me being "good" enough to go home or a matter of the days here being promised to me as "easy". It's that, because I love and care, even through my own hurts, there is one who will need the loving care only I can give them.
Maybe I will have to get through today and many tomorrows to see who it is and how I may help them, but me being on the planet is going to be exactly what someone needs one day.
Maybe I will be standing in just the right spot at just the right time and meet just the right person to change negative to positive. It might be as simple as taking a tree branch out of the road after a storm and preventing an accident or as dramatic as going into a burning building to get someone out. I don't know. I can't know what all the tomorrows will bring.
I do know that when I read, "If you want to know if your job here is done, check and see if you are still breathing." - I knew it for a true statement. I'm still here, still breathing. Still needed.
It's hard to see what point there is to our lives sometimes. Many times there seems to be no point at all. But while you are here what we do, even all alone, affects us all.
And for one person somewhere, sometime, I may be the only one who can do what needs to be done just the way only I would do it.
So for those of you wandering around wondering why you can't get a ticket home - Hang on.
Somebody needs you.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
What am I doing here?
What am I doing here? I can't answer it. But I know you are important. Precious. Loved.
I got some info from http://www.lifeofchrist.com/life/genealogy/women.asp
"Matthew included five women in his genealogy of Christ. This is notable since it was not customary for Jews to include women in their records. The five women were: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary. "
Tamar (Genesis 38:6-30) was the daughter-in-law of a man named Judah. Her husband, Judah's son, died, leaving no children.
Judah gave her to his son's brother. By law her offspring would continue the dead son's name and recieve his inheritance.
Tamar's brother-in-law refused to have children with her. God killed him for this. Judah would not give Tamar to any of his other sons, having lost two now.
Tamar, to continue her husband's line, disguised herself as a harlot and seduced Judah. Their child was named Perez, which means "divided".
Rahab ( Joshua 2:1-24 ) was a harlot who lived in Jericho. She hid the spies of Joshua. Because of this, the Israelites spared her life when they conquered Jericho. She later became the wife of Salmon, and the mother of Boaz. Rahab's faith was later commended (Heb 11:30-31).
Ruth ( Ruth 1:1-4:22) was a Moabite. She had married a Jew. Her mother-in-law was Naomi. They journeyed to Israel after all the men in the family died. Ruth would not leave Naomi to travel alone.
While in Israel, Ruth met and married Boaz, one of Naomi's relatives. Ruth later became the mother of Obed, the grandfather of David the King.
Bathsheba ( 2 Samuel 11:1-27 ) was the wife of Uriah the Hittite, who was a soldier in the army of King David. David wanted her after seeing her one time. He commanded she be brought to him. (Kings get to do that...) He slept with her and got her with child.
David called her husband home from war. When his plan to trick him about the pregnancy wouldn't work, David sent Uriah back into the thick of the battle. sHe also sent secret orders that support should be withdrawn from Uriah when the fighting became fierce. Uriah was killed.
David then took Bathsheba as his own wife. God punished David for this by killing their first child. Bathsheba had another son and called him Solomon, "one who recompenses".
Mary ( Matthew 1:18-25, Luke 1:26-56) Mary was a virgin when Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit. (but try to tell your fiancee' and your neighbors THAT!) When Joseph found she was with child he intended to put her away secretly because this was so shameful.
An angel came to tell Joseph what had happened. Joseph went ahead and took Mary as his wife, (inspite of what "everyone" said about her). Mary later had other sons and daughters by Joseph. (Matthew 13:55-56).
I think the point is that every life has value, always. You may not know what is important about your life while you live it. You can't know what you are doing here, only what you appear to be doing....and things are not always what they seem.
What you think is important about your life may not be the real gift you leave the world. You may build a hospital or write a book. That's good. But it may be one who reads the book that changes the world. It may be years after you are passed over to the other side that your life's importance is discovered.
No matter your situation, you can still contribute more love and joy to the world by teaching one more person to love and share love with others. By doing what is important to you, you contribute to the future.
Tamar never knew she was an ancestor to the man who would change the world. She seduced her father in law to keep her husband's name alive. She wanted children and a family.
Rahab never knew, either. She was "just a whore" and probably never expected to marry, much less have children and a caring husband.
Ruth was looking out for her mother in law, supporting her and herself. They were only destitute, grieving widows. But she found love again and is also one of Jesus' ancestors.
Mary was like any teen aged girl suddenly with child. She bore the shame. Many would not have believed in the virgin birth until her son was in his thirties and began his ministry of miracles. 33 years of scorn she may have endured. Why? What point in living when "everyone says" you cheated on your man....
Whatever you think of yourself, whatever you think society says you are, you are a person who loves.
God loves you just the way you are, just where you are standing, whatever you are doing.
So when it's hard, when it's lonely, when your heart is filled with grief, comfort yourself with the knowing that you have a value - you love.
I got some info from http://www.lifeofchrist.com/life/genealogy/women.asp
"Matthew included five women in his genealogy of Christ. This is notable since it was not customary for Jews to include women in their records. The five women were: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary. "
Tamar (Genesis 38:6-30) was the daughter-in-law of a man named Judah. Her husband, Judah's son, died, leaving no children.
Judah gave her to his son's brother. By law her offspring would continue the dead son's name and recieve his inheritance.
Tamar's brother-in-law refused to have children with her. God killed him for this. Judah would not give Tamar to any of his other sons, having lost two now.
Tamar, to continue her husband's line, disguised herself as a harlot and seduced Judah. Their child was named Perez, which means "divided".
Rahab ( Joshua 2:1-24 ) was a harlot who lived in Jericho. She hid the spies of Joshua. Because of this, the Israelites spared her life when they conquered Jericho. She later became the wife of Salmon, and the mother of Boaz. Rahab's faith was later commended (Heb 11:30-31).
Ruth ( Ruth 1:1-4:22) was a Moabite. She had married a Jew. Her mother-in-law was Naomi. They journeyed to Israel after all the men in the family died. Ruth would not leave Naomi to travel alone.
While in Israel, Ruth met and married Boaz, one of Naomi's relatives. Ruth later became the mother of Obed, the grandfather of David the King.
Bathsheba ( 2 Samuel 11:1-27 ) was the wife of Uriah the Hittite, who was a soldier in the army of King David. David wanted her after seeing her one time. He commanded she be brought to him. (Kings get to do that...) He slept with her and got her with child.
David called her husband home from war. When his plan to trick him about the pregnancy wouldn't work, David sent Uriah back into the thick of the battle. sHe also sent secret orders that support should be withdrawn from Uriah when the fighting became fierce. Uriah was killed.
David then took Bathsheba as his own wife. God punished David for this by killing their first child. Bathsheba had another son and called him Solomon, "one who recompenses".
Mary ( Matthew 1:18-25, Luke 1:26-56) Mary was a virgin when Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit. (but try to tell your fiancee' and your neighbors THAT!) When Joseph found she was with child he intended to put her away secretly because this was so shameful.
An angel came to tell Joseph what had happened. Joseph went ahead and took Mary as his wife, (inspite of what "everyone" said about her). Mary later had other sons and daughters by Joseph. (Matthew 13:55-56).
I think the point is that every life has value, always. You may not know what is important about your life while you live it. You can't know what you are doing here, only what you appear to be doing....and things are not always what they seem.
What you think is important about your life may not be the real gift you leave the world. You may build a hospital or write a book. That's good. But it may be one who reads the book that changes the world. It may be years after you are passed over to the other side that your life's importance is discovered.
No matter your situation, you can still contribute more love and joy to the world by teaching one more person to love and share love with others. By doing what is important to you, you contribute to the future.
Tamar never knew she was an ancestor to the man who would change the world. She seduced her father in law to keep her husband's name alive. She wanted children and a family.
Rahab never knew, either. She was "just a whore" and probably never expected to marry, much less have children and a caring husband.
Ruth was looking out for her mother in law, supporting her and herself. They were only destitute, grieving widows. But she found love again and is also one of Jesus' ancestors.
Mary was like any teen aged girl suddenly with child. She bore the shame. Many would not have believed in the virgin birth until her son was in his thirties and began his ministry of miracles. 33 years of scorn she may have endured. Why? What point in living when "everyone says" you cheated on your man....
Whatever you think of yourself, whatever you think society says you are, you are a person who loves.
God loves you just the way you are, just where you are standing, whatever you are doing.
So when it's hard, when it's lonely, when your heart is filled with grief, comfort yourself with the knowing that you have a value - you love.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Hold to YOUR course
Mark 6:45-52 (NKJV)
45 Immediately He made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while He sent the multitude away.
46 And when He had sent them away, He departed to the mountain to pray.
47 Now when evening came, the boat was in the middle of the sea; and He was alone on the land.
48 Then He saw them straining at rowing, for the wind was against them. Now about the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed them by.
49 And when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed it was a ghost, and cried out;
50 for they all saw Him and were troubled. But immediately He talked with them and said to them, "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid."
51 Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased. And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled.
52 For they had not understood about the loaves, because their heart was hardened.
46 And when He had sent them away, He departed to the mountain to pray.
What did Jesus have to pray about? He'd healed the sick, spoken of the new gospel to the people that sought him, fed the crowd, sent the disciples safely away and finally got some time to himself.
I would have collapsed in a heap and wanted a hot cuppa tea. He wanted to commune with God.
The day wasn't over yet and I think he knew it. He still had to walk out over the sea and meet the boat, calm the storm and lift Peter out of the waves.
If I knew I had all that to do after all I had done my prayer might have been, "Father - don't you realize how much you are cramming into a day for me here? I'm TIRED! How am I supposed to get the rest of this done? I'm beat now. They don't even see what is right in front of them. You just fed 5000 people and they don't even see that as a miracle so WHY did you have me even try? Wasn't it a wasted effort? And now you want me to walk on water. Do you remember I'm from the desert? Sand, wind - those I know. Walk on WATER? What is the POINT!"
Now I'm betting that, with his deeper understanding, that isn't what Jesus prayed. But how often would we have seen the whole event of feeding 5000 as wasted because no one saw the miracle in it but us? Walking on water? Who cared? It just scared his friends. Pulling Peter out? What for? How come Peter had to lose faith? Hadn't he showed them ENOUGH miracles yet? Didn't they understand he was God's son and could do anything he needed to, including allowing another to walk on water?
He still has to keep showing us, everyday, that he is real. We can't seem to remember the healings, the rescues, the "just exactly what I needed" events from yesterday. I feel better knowing the disciples couldn't remember, either.
And the poor disciples are out there rowing a boat in a storm! Why? Because that's what Jesus asked them to do. He was the one everyone wanted to see. What was the point in them going to the next place without him. Why would they struggle to keep the boat afloat and on course? No one is going to know how hard it was. Why didn't they just give up and drift?
He gave them a direction and they were trying to do what he asked of them. Was it easy? Did it seem to have an important purpose? Aside from keeping themselves alive in the storm there was no reason to aim where he told them to. There was a storm. Anyone would understand if they just put into land anywhere for safe harbor in a storm....
But they didn't. They kept rowing even though the wind was against them. Even though no one would know what they did and even though it looked like they might die in the attempt and even though they may have felt stupid for staying out in a storm. They kept rowing.
I'm glad to know they preservered. When I seem to be "going against the grain" of the world or people around me, but I know it's where I have been directed, I can hold my course sure. I wait for the voice that will come out of the dark - "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid."
He's here. Every minute, every trial, every seemingly pointless effort, is guarded by him. That's the comfort of the story for me - no matter what, do not be afraid. He's got me covered.
45 Immediately He made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while He sent the multitude away.
46 And when He had sent them away, He departed to the mountain to pray.
47 Now when evening came, the boat was in the middle of the sea; and He was alone on the land.
48 Then He saw them straining at rowing, for the wind was against them. Now about the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed them by.
49 And when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed it was a ghost, and cried out;
50 for they all saw Him and were troubled. But immediately He talked with them and said to them, "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid."
51 Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased. And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled.
52 For they had not understood about the loaves, because their heart was hardened.
46 And when He had sent them away, He departed to the mountain to pray.
What did Jesus have to pray about? He'd healed the sick, spoken of the new gospel to the people that sought him, fed the crowd, sent the disciples safely away and finally got some time to himself.
I would have collapsed in a heap and wanted a hot cuppa tea. He wanted to commune with God.
The day wasn't over yet and I think he knew it. He still had to walk out over the sea and meet the boat, calm the storm and lift Peter out of the waves.
If I knew I had all that to do after all I had done my prayer might have been, "Father - don't you realize how much you are cramming into a day for me here? I'm TIRED! How am I supposed to get the rest of this done? I'm beat now. They don't even see what is right in front of them. You just fed 5000 people and they don't even see that as a miracle so WHY did you have me even try? Wasn't it a wasted effort? And now you want me to walk on water. Do you remember I'm from the desert? Sand, wind - those I know. Walk on WATER? What is the POINT!"
Now I'm betting that, with his deeper understanding, that isn't what Jesus prayed. But how often would we have seen the whole event of feeding 5000 as wasted because no one saw the miracle in it but us? Walking on water? Who cared? It just scared his friends. Pulling Peter out? What for? How come Peter had to lose faith? Hadn't he showed them ENOUGH miracles yet? Didn't they understand he was God's son and could do anything he needed to, including allowing another to walk on water?
He still has to keep showing us, everyday, that he is real. We can't seem to remember the healings, the rescues, the "just exactly what I needed" events from yesterday. I feel better knowing the disciples couldn't remember, either.
And the poor disciples are out there rowing a boat in a storm! Why? Because that's what Jesus asked them to do. He was the one everyone wanted to see. What was the point in them going to the next place without him. Why would they struggle to keep the boat afloat and on course? No one is going to know how hard it was. Why didn't they just give up and drift?
He gave them a direction and they were trying to do what he asked of them. Was it easy? Did it seem to have an important purpose? Aside from keeping themselves alive in the storm there was no reason to aim where he told them to. There was a storm. Anyone would understand if they just put into land anywhere for safe harbor in a storm....
But they didn't. They kept rowing even though the wind was against them. Even though no one would know what they did and even though it looked like they might die in the attempt and even though they may have felt stupid for staying out in a storm. They kept rowing.
I'm glad to know they preservered. When I seem to be "going against the grain" of the world or people around me, but I know it's where I have been directed, I can hold my course sure. I wait for the voice that will come out of the dark - "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid."
He's here. Every minute, every trial, every seemingly pointless effort, is guarded by him. That's the comfort of the story for me - no matter what, do not be afraid. He's got me covered.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Ten percent?
Mt 23:23 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
Is our "tithe" limited to the physical things we have? Things; money, homes, food, possessions. They have value and to share them is not just "good" but love being showed.
This verse seems to say that to show the love that has been given to us that we should tithe of our "things" AND our hearts. When I am angry if I could think to "tithe" forgiveness wouldn't I then give up the anger at another and isn't that a tithe of love?
When someone wrongs me and I can think to tithe "mercy", that I have been given in such abundance, wouldn't I give up the hurt and make peace?
I had already come to the conclusion that we should tithe of our talents as well as our resources. Tithing time, transportation, skills - I understood that. But tithing of our feelings and judgements - that's a new thought.
Many times I have thought the truth of my feelings was trash I was handing to the Divine Loving Being - but he sees the truth as beautiful, whatever it is in my judgement. If I could be willing to give up a tithe, say ten percent, of my hurt, anger and frustrations with life, wouldn't it be improving my life?
And if he returns what you tithe to him ten fold then wouldn't I have more ability to forgive, offer mercy, pass on kindness, not hurts?
I don't know. When I don't know I say, "There's two ways to find out; Ask someone who knows or try it and see." I'm guessing on this one I'll be trying it to see.
I'll tithe of my feelings. If I am angry I will reach for forgiveness to give instead of more hurt to another. If I am sad I will reach for a small part of joy to share - not sadness. I will give up the self pity for a bit of thankfulness and share that with others. Then I will see what happens next.
I know I haven't said this well. The words are deceptive. I have tithed of my income and my possesions. Now I'm going to add to it. I will tithe of kindness, forgiveness and mercy instead of passing on anger, pain and sadness. It makes sense to me. It's the way I see it today.
Is our "tithe" limited to the physical things we have? Things; money, homes, food, possessions. They have value and to share them is not just "good" but love being showed.
This verse seems to say that to show the love that has been given to us that we should tithe of our "things" AND our hearts. When I am angry if I could think to "tithe" forgiveness wouldn't I then give up the anger at another and isn't that a tithe of love?
When someone wrongs me and I can think to tithe "mercy", that I have been given in such abundance, wouldn't I give up the hurt and make peace?
I had already come to the conclusion that we should tithe of our talents as well as our resources. Tithing time, transportation, skills - I understood that. But tithing of our feelings and judgements - that's a new thought.
Many times I have thought the truth of my feelings was trash I was handing to the Divine Loving Being - but he sees the truth as beautiful, whatever it is in my judgement. If I could be willing to give up a tithe, say ten percent, of my hurt, anger and frustrations with life, wouldn't it be improving my life?
And if he returns what you tithe to him ten fold then wouldn't I have more ability to forgive, offer mercy, pass on kindness, not hurts?
I don't know. When I don't know I say, "There's two ways to find out; Ask someone who knows or try it and see." I'm guessing on this one I'll be trying it to see.
I'll tithe of my feelings. If I am angry I will reach for forgiveness to give instead of more hurt to another. If I am sad I will reach for a small part of joy to share - not sadness. I will give up the self pity for a bit of thankfulness and share that with others. Then I will see what happens next.
I know I haven't said this well. The words are deceptive. I have tithed of my income and my possesions. Now I'm going to add to it. I will tithe of kindness, forgiveness and mercy instead of passing on anger, pain and sadness. It makes sense to me. It's the way I see it today.
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