Must Have Needed It

I found it hard to believe this morning I slept for eight hours waking up once. I figure I must have needed the sleep. I just hope I feel fine.

Sometimes we all need a jolt whether it is sleep or something else.

I find being in a good conversation which includes humor or given a compliment is a good jolt too.

We all need something we don’t get or hear once in a while from someone. Not only will we feel better we can believe more in ourselves.

Regardless of our situations we all need to be affirmed once in a while. Yes you are on the right track or you do have meaning and a place in this world.

So you have an opportunity today affirm someone. The best way is just being you. In fact you probably affirm more people than you realize by being you. Amen!

Moving On

When it comes to relationships sometimes we have to move on. Not all relationships turn out the way we want them to be.

Moving on in a relationship doesn’t mean it has to be forever. There is a possibility the relationship could come back together so moving on might be for a period time.

We should never stay in a relationship that can be harmful to us or the other person for that matter. This could be a relationship with a friend or a loved one.

In another way we may give tough love for the other person until they change things around.

Not any easy thing to do however necessary. I would give them several chances  so moving on is after a period of time.

This could be for someone we mentor or have leadership over as well. They may need space to get their life straight out. Hopefully the relationship will come back to the right side. Amen!

Thunder and Lightning

On Tuesday we had thunder and lightning in Gig Harbor. It occurred twice in mid-afternoon and then again early evening.

During the mid-afternoon storm we had hail as well. I didn’t know it had happened until reading it on social media. I was waiting for my mother to finish playing bridge. One of the ladies says it sounds like drums. I agreed with her. It must have been the hail.

I was reading on social media the local national weather service was surprised by the storms. So the weather can be at times unpredictable just like our lives.

Things happen in our lives we don’t expect. It can be our health or a loss of a loved one. This is so much where our purpose in life comes in. We can’t be sure when the storms will hit so we must be available for others and the same when happens to us. Keep up the good work. Amen!

The Stars

Like most people I have been fascinated by the stars when I look into the sky. Also I enjoy seeing the moon as well.

The last time I took some time looking into the skies I found it interesting where I thought a small plane or some kind of object and then it disappeared just like that. Someone came out and asked me what I was looking at. I tried to explain though I am sure he thought I was a bit nuts. It returned again for a moment then disappeared altogether. I felt like Star Trek had happened over again.

This brings me to the Christmas story where we hear or read about the three Kings or wise men who followed the stars to see the Messiah. After leaving their gifts they returned home wherever it was from.

The next part of the story Joseph took his wife Mary and the child out of town because he thought King Herod would kill him. In fact Herod asked to kill all the male babies around the same age. When Herod was no more a threat Joseph brought his family back home.

We don’t know any more of the young baby boy and not about Christ until he was around 12 years old for a short period of time then the rest of the story was his ministry around 30 years for a period of three years.

During that period we know he learned the craft of his father where he worked as a carpenter.

So the life of Jesus the Messiah is many ways is as mysterious as the stars in the skies. I wonder how the people of Israel thought during those thirty years before Jesus started his ministry. Were they looking for the Messiah wondering who he was? Our minds can work in the same about his life in the way of the stars.  

He was a mystery to his people as are the stars. Only the disciples and the women close to him really knew who he was. The rest of the people continued living their lives day by day. I am sure at times is this the Messiah or another. I am sure for many John the Baptist seemed to be more the Messiah than Jesus. He continued to tell them he was just making the way for the Messiah and he was not.

As we celebrate the birth of the Christ we can think of how he lived his life and how we can live the same way too. Maybe we can be as mysterious as the stars too.

Tis the Season

At least here in the USA many people start getting ready for the holiday’s right after Thanksgiving. They go get their Christmas tree on Black Friday or over the weekend. This is the time to start shopping for presents as well.

On the other hand I usually wait until December to start the holiday season. Most of my family is out of state so I do have to figure to do shopping early.

The holiday season though is more in the attitude along with tradition for most people. I think more of what the season means than celebrating. I know most think about family and friends while I think about the birth of Christ and the reason he came to earth to give hope and love along with being the Savior of the world. Though his birth was important it was his death and resurrection that was more important. It is the reason we celebrate Easter in March or April.

So whatever you are doing this season still remember the reason for it. Be thankful for the birth of Christ and what he did on the earth before his death. Amen!

Holiday Traditions

Everyone seems to have holiday traditions and each year at least another is added.

Even if you don’t have a holiday tradition it still means you have one. The tradition is not to celebrate any.

I have never gone shopping on Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Actually this year I might just check out Cyber Monday just to get some ideas. The only reason I would go shopping on either day is to save money on something I actually want to get however I usually don’t think of it at this point. I know to there are those who will say you can save $250 on something but you can save a lot more if you don’t actually need the item.

Here in my local area one of the churches has a play they put on every year called “the Singing Christmas Tree”. Thousands have gone to it for many years. I haven’t seen it yet because hard to get tickets. Also the Point Defiance Zoo has what they call “the Zoo Lights”. They really decorate the zoo. Many come from miles around to see it as well. Of course there are a number of bazaars available to go look and shop for crafted items.

My brother Jack always goes and gets his Christmas tree on Black Friday. It is I think his only real tradition other than opening presents of course. I actually help start that tradition quite a few years ago when his children were small. I was visiting him in Minnesota for Thanksgiving and I suggested getting a Christmas tree. We did so and he has been doing it ever since.

There are those who start listening to Christmas songs right after Thanksgiving as well. I personally prefer waiting until early December. I can’t help hearing Christmas songs now because the coffee shops or the grocery stores or shopping malls are all playing them.

So enjoy your holiday traditions and may you have a blessed holiday season.

Be Prepared

Today November 24 I will be helping my church youth group sell Christmas Trees. Most years that I have helped selling the trees it has rained. Today it is expected to be mostly cloudy however I will be prepared in case it does rain. I hope that it doesn’t for sure. I will have my rain jacket available if needed.

Last year it rained pretty well and I had to deal working with a sprained ankle as well so I had limited action in helping moving the trees. I had injured my ankle about ten days before falling in my bedroom of all places. With physical therapy I am able now to keep my balance in check.

We all know it is important to be prepared however we don’t always plan for the worst. We sometimes things will take care of themselves without much planning but it is a good idea anyway. So whether you are out shopping this weekend or doing something else instead be prepared is my suggestion. Whatever you do have yourself a wonderful weekend.

Write Things Down

When someone comes to your mind like a friend write down what you are thinking. For example what they mean to you, the gifts and talents they have.

The next time you see them or email what you have written down. It is an excellent way to encourage them. I am sure they will appreciate it.

It is an excellent way to exercise your mind as well. It may even bring to you about your gifts and talents as well.

Since this is the holiday season now writing a card to them is a good idea. If you are writing to a couple than write down the gifts and talents they both have.  They have children write for each one of them as well. You may have even a better friend in the end.

Happy Thanksgiving

I want to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving whether you are an American or not.

I pray for those who may be alone today and the people who are sick. I pray your life will change. Someone will come into your life and you will be healthy too.

Have joy and be thankful on this day. May you have peace and a quiet spirit too. May your dreams come true.

Let today be a beginning of a new life. Until the next time let today be the best that you have. Amen!

Never Give Up

Tuesday night I was watching the Washington Huskies men’s basketball team play and win against the Texas A&M Aggies. It was a frustrating first half because they shooting terribly 23 percent from the field however they were able to come back to win because they hustled and never gave up. They looked like a team feeling this could be it and they wanted the game real bad.

This is how we should feel when things are not going well and the circumstances are against us. We need to find a way to rebound and make things go in our favor. As the Huskies showed it isn’t an easy task however often it is the only way to get back into the game and life.

So the next time you feel bad and need encouragement remember to never give up regardless of how things look like at the time. With the right perspective things can and will turnaround. Amen!

Is It or Not

When it comes to our lives and those we know is it or not. In other terms yes or no are the answers to our lives.

Whatever is happening in our lives today or in the past for that matter or in the future it does come down to is it or not involved in the equation. We can say yes or no.

The reason for our purpose in life is not only to help answer the questions of is it or not but helping those we know to answer the same questions.

Often we have to choose to decide is it or not or yes or no. I have to say not always an easy thing to do for sure. I know right now I can say yes because it is first thing in the morning here for me but several hours from now I could be saying no instead. I just hope not or I can choose yes despite what might be happening to me or those around me.

As you know if you have read my posts for a while my purpose is to encourage others and I have to encourage myself often as well.

We are in a battle every single day making decisions that can change our lives. Not an easy task at times for sure. This reason we need to have mentors or friends to help us answer the hard questions we can’t answer ourselves.

This Thursday is Thanksgiving here in the United States so it is a day for being thankful for what we have. It isn’t always easy to be thankful when we are going through rough patches but we are better if we do so. This goes for gratitude as well which is a close cousin to thanksgiving. So whether you celebrate Thanksgiving as a holiday or not take the time out and be thankful. Amen!

Unity

The greatest thing we can have in life beyond love is unity. Actually love is what will bring unity together.

I find usually unity happens when tragedy happens like when a shooting happens or the loss of someone well known.

Wouldn’t it be nice if we could be united more of the time instead of throwing insults here and there because of disagreements. 

Life is too short to let things go instead of love and unity. This holiday season is a great time to let unity thrive. 

When you get together for a holiday party show the unity and make plans to do again as well. Unity can put a smile on our faces. Amen!

O Come All Ye Faithful

This is another favorite Christmas song of mine. These words of the title “O Come All Ye Faithful” means for all Christians to come together as Christ followers.

Another line in the song says “O come let us adore him” so let’s unite together to adore our Savior. Regardless what church or denomination we belong to this season we should love one another and our Savior together. Be united in faith and adore him as we should. Amen!

Dealing With A Cold

I have to say it isn’t ever easy to deal with a cold. This week I have had a head cold so makes things hard to do especially thinking.

I don’t know about you but I do find it hard to think when I am sick and it is even harder when having a head cold.

I find standing or sitting with a cold is easier than lying down. I expect when lying down it goes to our heads.

I try to do things despite having this cold but certainly take longer to do so for sure. I still try to do what I can even with a cold. This morning I am taking mom to a breakfast for her group AAUW (American Association of University Women) Gig Harbor chapter. It is a scholarship fundraiser they do every year. My mother was the founding member of Gig Harbor Chapter. She still goes to some events and meetings though she isn’t in charge any longer. This shows what one woman can do to help other women who have gone to college or young ladies who want go to college. Great job Mom!

I will be relaxing after the breakfast hoping to feel better real soon. The most important thing is to continue encouraging everyone. Amen!

Helping Others

The thing about this time of the year there is a great need to help others. Actually it is something we should be doing all year long and those of us living our life of purpose are doing so.

During the holiday season the need is being recognized more. If there is a place we want to be plugged in all year long this is a good time to start. We can enjoy whatever it is that we plan to do. I feel the people are more important than what we probably doing for them and I am sure they feel the same way.

Again this year at the end of the month right after Thanksgiving I will being helping  the youth of my church to sell Christmas trees. My main job is to show the families buying the tree the best one for them to purchase and then load the tree on the top of their car or truck. I enjoy spending time with the youth, adult volunteers and the families buying  the trees. I find it satisfaction in doing so for several hours on a weekend.

Whatever time you have whether a lot or little go out and find yourself helping others during this holiday season.

Peace On Earth

A number of the standard Christmas songs have peace on earth included in. At least at the birth of Christ there was peace on earth for a moment.

Often when a pageant contestant and others in similar situations they are asked what they want most of all the answer is more often “peace on earth”.

I am sure we all want to have peace on earth however it could be still awhile for it to happen. All we can do in our place in the world is to show peace to others and with a miracle it will happen.

Right now though with most people being greedy it will not happen across the globe; only situations like the fires in California right now people show their humanity though can be short lived.

In our lives right now people disagree on politics and often shout at each other.  I know there are those who will disagree with my politics and it is ok. The important thing is to share what we agree on and not what we don’t agree on. A reason I don’t share politics here or any social media because I figure what is the point. Most likely we won’t change others beliefs or opinions. Something new comes to light or we can share without making things personal than it is good to do so. Other words a good debate.

Until next time may peace be in your heart today.

Mild November

It still amazes me how mild the weather here in Western Washington has become the last several years. Not as much snow during the winter and hotter in the summer.

Right now we should be in the raining season and we have had less than inch of rain in November so far. The average rainfall is seven inches in November. Of course there is plenty of time for it still too happen however will it is the question. We have rain forecasted for today (Wednesday) and again on Friday. How much we are expected I am not sure.

It is nice to see the sun out more regular than normal for November but it is weird at the same time. The temperatures have been on the cool side ranging from freezing in the morning up to the middle fifties during the day. At least it is around the history average.

I guess our perspective is to enjoy this weather long as it lasts and like the weather we can change as well. We can become more mild as well (chuckle).

World Be Kind Day

Today (Tuesday) is considered world be kind day. It seems to me they now have a special day everyday now and this is what Tuesday November 13 is.

Actually being kind to others is not a bad idea every single day of our lives. We likely live longer or at least have less stress anyway. Also it is one of the great ways for us to live out our life of purpose as well.

I always hear where it is told that dogs are man’s best friend. I am sure dogs are very kind and it is a reason they are man’s best friend so let’s do what dogs do. I think to that many people like dogs more than other human beings but I prefer to like people more than dogs though there isn’t anything wrong with dogs I just see a lot more people. Yes I know that I am being sarcastic but why not still go this way.

So even though you may not always be kind make every effort to be kind to everyone today even those who make it hard to please. Who knows you may gain a new friend and you will have less stress as well. Doesn’t that make it worthwhile? Until next time enjoy the time being kind.

Joy to the World

I have to say once again one of my favorite Christmas songs is “Joy to the World”.

For me it is more than the words in this case it is the tune of the song. It sounds very victorious to me and I am sure it was the point by the writer of the music.

I have mentioned before there is how great to have joy in our lives and often we have to make the choice to do so because life isn’t always easy.

I believe it is important to sing songs of joy as well. The first verse of the song goes as this:

Joy to the world

Joy to the world

Joy to the world the Lord is come

Let earth receive her King

Let every heart prepare him room

And heaven and nature sing

And heaven and nature sing

And heaven and nature sing

If you have the time enjoy singing this song this week. Amen!

Veterans Day!

Here in United States today November 11 is Veterans Day. A day we celebrate those who have fought and served our country. There is not a high purpose for someone to do so allowing freedom to continue in this land.

In Europe and other countries they called it “Armistice Day” or ‘’Remembrance Day”. This day is chosen because the end of World War 1 where the opposition surrendered at the 11^th hour on the 11^th day of the 11^th month in 1918. So this means to us celebrate the 100^th anniversary to the end of the Great War.

Again we thank you all for serving your country. Amen!

Fall On Your Knees

This is the third line in verse two and three of Oh Holy Night. There really is something about us to fall on our knees. The purpose is to honor God.

While we are on our knees we can lift our hands to praise God and give him adoration. Also a way for us to surrender ourselves to our Mighty God.

Many churches do this a lot during their services however a good thing to remember and acknowledge during the Christmas season.

Falling on our knees allows us to humble ourselves as well. We will think less of us and more of God along with our fellow man.

To honor God, worship him and humble ourselves are good steps in living a life of purpose. We were created for these reasons.

I know it may feel too early to think of the Christmas season though some do so at the beginning of November it is a real way to put our lives together. I am not into singing or hearing a lot of Christmas songs yet but there are some like Oh Holy Night we can do so right now. Enjoy your weekend and be blessed.

Oh Holy Night

One of my favorite Christmas Songs; it is so moving to hear and sing. Being a Christian it gives us hope knowing how important Christ was born. He came to be our Savior to lay his life down for us all and to rid of us all of our sins.

At the time of his birth though the Jews were looking for a different kind of Savior; they were looking for the Messiah to be their king. Except those who recognized Jesus Christ as the Savior the rest didn’t see him as the Messiah. They are still waiting for him to come however the good news someday they will recognize him too.  

A very good reason why we are created and we have a true purpose in this life. Not only to share Christ with others, hope and love. We have a purpose only meant for ourselves and it is good news as well. 

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

This is the last two lines in the first verse of Silent Night to sleep in heavenly peace.

I have to say there is nothing greater thing we can do when we go to bed at night to sleep in heavenly peace. I believe often we do so. This allows us to wake up the next morning refreshed and to begin a new wonderful day no matter how yesterday had turned out. Indeed every morning is new and the past is just a memory.

I believe it is exciting to think about these holiday and Christmas songs the words that go with them. Of course some of the songs are just fun and not a lot of meaning to them however there are those have such wonderful words to them just like Silent Night. I look forward to sharing them this season for us to receive meanings that can be personal for each of us. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season beyond whatever you have had in the past. Amen!

All is Calm All is Bright

The second line of Silent Night which gives us hope things can be calm and bright regardless what has happened in our lives.

We can be calm in circumstances that we shouldn’t think would happen. We can have life moving on when things don’t seem possible. This can be an area where we can use our purpose to bring out the best; what makes this time of the year so special and great for all mankind.

Being silent can bring things together as calm and bright. It is through this we can have hope, peace and love. Something for us to remember not only this time of the year but all year long. Amen!

Silent Night

One of my favorite songs at Christmas time; it could be a song we sing all year long.

I remember once going to church on Christmas Eve with my dad sitting next to me. Mom was singing in the choir. I heard dad had been a pretty good singer however he became ill then never sang again. I was very small at the time so I had never heard him sing. Anyway during Silent Night dad decided to sing. It was only time I heard him ever sing. I thought he had a wonderful voice. Made me cry hearing him sing and I had to let my brothers and sister know I heard him sing. An experience I will never forget.

In our lives we need to rest and have a silent night to reflect on what has gone on in our lives. Often we get so much clutter in our minds it is important to think about the positive things in our lives. Let it be.

Fa La La La

Have you ever wondered what fa la la la really means? Until now I never really thought about it I was just singing a Christmas Carole.

I am not here to put great meaning into it. I decided to do a search to find out what it means and I find out it means almost nothing or nothing at all. The madrigal composers in the day decided to add onto a song when they did know what to say or I like the idea of them adding on for just fun.

So what we can do while walking down the street or wherever we want to sing and don’t know the words or for the fun of it just sing fa la la la.

Another idea I have is if you want to tell a joke but you don’t know what the joke is just say fa la la la or shorten to fa la or la la la.

One of the funniest things I have seen is the Smothers Brothers singing deck the halls and when comes to the fa la la la Tom Smothers really butchers it and makes fun. His brother Dick is totally annoyed with him. If you can find the video of this you should see it.

So the next time you are talking to someone and giving some advice but you lose your train of thought throw in the fa la la la.  Have yourself a great week fa la la la.  

To Be Jolly

This is the time of the year we should make the effort to have a lot of laughter. Not any easy task for us all however we can make the choice to do so.

Laughter is good medicine and hopefully allows us to stick around longer in this life.  Showing laughter as much as possible will rub off on others. It doesn’t mean you have to be happy all the time because circumstances happen when laughter can be hard to come by however it is good to release the disappoints that come to us at times.

Let this be a jolly and fun holiday season this year. Let us continue to remember the reason for this season. Take the time to show others love too. Amen!

Tis the Season

I know a few who enjoy Christmas music all year long and others start now in November. In fact one of the local radio stations is now playing Christmas music through the end of the year. The Hallmark channel is showing Christmas movies. I am not really into this until after Thanksgiving or when December comes. I figure this year to have Christmas theme when it comes to my posts here. So I am beginning with "Tis the Season.

Being single like I am this time of the year is not an easy one. I am sure other singles feel the same way as well all depending on your age. I know it is true for those who are married as well. For example if you have lost someone close to you especially this year or someone you lost this time of the year.  You feel having them not around is not the same. Very understandable I think of my dad and my older brother who each has been gone for a while how Christmas used be when the whole family was together.

Those who feel this way this time of the year we need to direct our thoughts and feelings in another way. The possibility is to find others in the same way have lost loved ones or are single to enjoy each other’s company. To share something new or feel good together; being a friend to each other. Let this season being good and not feeling sad. Until next time enjoy your weekend and this season.

Holiday Season

Now we are entering the holiday season it is important to spend time with those we care a lot about especially family.

I know family isn’t always the easiest ones to spend time with because of past experiences however it is important to get past those things.  We must remember they are family and that wouldn’t ever change. We must make the most of it.

I am fortunate to come from a very good family. It hasn’t been always easy but we have loved and cared about each other long as I remember. I know not everyone has been as fortunate as I have.

Whatever has happened let this holiday season be a new start and be the family you have always wanted to have. Let it begin with you and the surprise might be right ahead of you. Next year might be the one you have desired for a long time.

Spending Time With Others

I believe the number one thing to do is spending time with others. I am sure there are those who disagree and don’t do so. In fact there are those who like having a dog or a cat instead however I like being around people though animals are okay as well.

Often people are entertaining to me. I am sure there are those who are not however I find most allow me to be entertained. Wherever I go it is nice to watch people to but again it is how I see things.

I know some people are hard to get along with but if you keep those thoughts out of your mind a lot better. There are those like to share what is going on with them while others prefer not to. This is what makes life exciting.

I recommend spending time with others whether for a short period or longer. I find doing so with more people works out too. I am not sure how people feel about spending the time with me but so far I believe it works out. I am one of those who will strike up a conversation even with a stranger. This morning I did with a couple of ladies I don’t know. I found out from one of them because she arrived first what they were going to meet about. I always find this being fascinating. So just take the time and talk to a stranger or someone you don’t know so well. Actually a stranger is someone you don’t know very well. Next time you will be able to have a better conversation and never know might become really good friends.  

Talk and Listen

Whether we are praying to God which begins with talking to him well as talking to people a good idea to hear the response; I am sure we will be surprised what happens in our lives by doing so.

Just like us God wants to have a relationship with us. He doesn’t need to have a relationship with us in the same way we do because he is perfect however he still wants to.

Relationships should be important to us whether with God or people.  It seems to me people care more about having relationships with their dogs or cats. Ok to do so with our furry friends however so much more with both God and man. We can learn from dogs and cats because they are willing to have relationships with us no matter who we are so should do so with others and God too.

Not writing this to judge anyone however a good suggestion and we will be rewarded.