SMALL STEPS...BECOME A MILE...LITTLE DROPS BECOME A RIVER..

Oh, I am kind of tired tonight so I think that I will go to bed early as I will be getting up early.

I was awake very early this morning, too.

Tomorrow after mass I will a big baked potato with every thing on it from Wendy's, then take a nice long nap.

This is all you get from me tonight.  My brain is on strike.

+++

 

AND THE PEACE

OF

GOD,

WHICH PASSES

ALL

UNDERSTANDING

SHALL GUARD

YOUR HEARTS

AND MINDS

THROUGH

CHRIST JESUS.

 

Philippians 4: 7

 

Everyone should strive to read the Bible each day even is it just a small passage such as this posted.

 

END

 



 

 



THE SHEEP OF THE SHEPHERD-THAT'S US

It rained a little this morning so I didn't get an early start on the day.  I guess that I am just lazy.  After mass at 12:05 I did go to the Dollar Store and get a few things.  I have had a list for some items that I needed for over a month now.  I finally got what I needed.  Not anything really important, but good to have in the house.  I did find milk in a box which is something that I have looked for for months.  It good to have this kind of milk as it is shelf stable and will last for months without refrigeration.  I may go back and get more...after I count my pennies and nickles.

I also brought in a few items that I have been storing in the van and have more to haul in.  I just don't know where to put it.  I am about done with my "stocking up" and will only buy items that are really good purchases or in  a good sale.  It sounds like I like to spend money, but I hate shopping.  It is a chore...a work of necessity.  Just about done with it.  Well and good.

+++

 

WHO WILL

SEPARATE US

FROM THE

LOVE OF CHRIST?

TRIAL,

OR DISTRESS,

OR PERSECUTION,

OR HUNGER,
NAKEDNESS OR
HUNGER OR
DANGER OF
THE SWORD?
AS SCRIPTURE SAYS:
"FOR YOUR SAKE
WE ARE BEING
SLAIN ALL THE
DAY LONG.
WE ARE LOOKED
UPON AS SHEEP
TO BE
SLAUGHTERED."

This is from Paul to the Romans, Chapter 8, verse 35-36.  It is from the The New American Bible or translation.  I won't really comment much on it other than to say that we have all felt like sheep being led to the slaughter at one time or another. Don't follow the sheep.  Follow the Shepherd instead.

END



Pray now or pay later.

It's been a long day.  Technically and scientifically it has just a little bit shorter than yesterday.  The days are getting shorter, but this felt like a long day.

I went to the dentist, had an X-Ray, had a "shot" to kill the discomfort while the dentist "probed."  I am now on Cipro for the infection, but I get to keep the tooth and did not need to have more drilling and work.  I hope the Cipro kicks in.

Next on the agenda was a trip to the garage for two new tires which took a long, long time...too long.  Also, they fixed a brake light that was out. 

By the time I got out of the garage I was starving so I stopped to get something to eat.  Never, never try to use a straw after having Novocain or you will have fluid squirting out the side of your mouth....and you will bite your lip...and you can't chew.  By the time I got home it was "late" and I was tired.  That made it a "long day."

So, now I have a sore mouth and a lot less money.  The dentist was $80.00, the tires and brake light came to $269.00
and the Cipro was only about $4.00. with my insurance.  Ah, poverty, poverty, it strikes again.  I am better off than many here and abroad, 'though, because I stock up whenever I can.  Still, I don't have a lot of money to part with so I am fairly careful in most expenditures.  I don't worry too much about anyone online getting into my bank account...it just wouldn't be worth anyone' time or effort.  So please don't; this isn't an invitation.

+++

 

OUR FATHER

WHO ART

IN HEAVEN,

HALLOWED

BE THY NAME.

THY KINGDOM

COME,

THEY WILL

BE DONE,

ON EARTH

AS IT IS

IN HEAVEN.

GIVE US

OUR DAILY

BREAD,

AND FORGIVE

US OUR DEBTS,

AS WE ALSO

FORGIVE

OUR DEBTORS,

AND LEAD US

NOT INTO

TEMPTATION,

BUT DELIVER US

FROM EVIL.

 

This is, of course, the prayer that Jesus taught to His disciples.  Most of us know this prayer: it is from Saint Matthew, Chapter 6, verse 9.  The reason I post it is because not everyone that comes to this site has a Bible and can not look it up.  In many countries a Bible is forbidden and having one can cost a Christian dearly.  We, here in the States, do not know what a privilege and precious right we have for the freedom of worship.  Care for it well, America, for this is a right that is under attack.  Pray for peace.

 

END





EXCEPT FOR ME!

This has been a quiet day if you discount the rolling thunderstorm we had this eve.  It seems strange to have a thunderstorm with lightning after the long drought of the summer.  It is almost a rare event.  Some prognosticators are calling for a wet winter, some say it will be a winter without snow and I say...wait and see.  We will get what we get. Be prepared for a dull winter season or for a few surprises.

Tomorrow I have an appointment with the dentist.  I seem to have an infection somewhere in one of my crowns.  I should have called on Friday, but the dentist is semi-retired and not really in after the middle of the week.  I am lucky that I am getting in tomorrow.

I hope to get two new tires put on the van tomorrow after the trip to the dentist.  The tires are the original tires that came with the van, but they are now seven plus years old and cracking on the inner sidewalls.  Even though they don't look old I know that they are subject to cracking and road fatigue.  Like people...they may look good on the outside, but you can't can't see the wear and tear on the inside.  I hope to get the front tires replaced this month and the back tires changed out next month.  And it all depends on the trip to the dentist and how much it will cost to have my tooth fixed...again.

There was another funeral mass at church today.  I am glad the it followed the mass that I was attending at the time.  As I said, funeral masses are not my favorite services, esp. if I do not know the person.  I have decided to skip my own.

+++

 

HAVE NO ANXIETY,

BUT IN EVERY

PRAYER

AND SUPPLICATION

WITH

THANKSGIVING

LET YOUR PETITIONS

BE KNOWN TO GOD.

***

 

Philippians 4: vs. 6

 

Do you pray for yourself or just for others?  You should remember yourself and your own needs and intentions in your prayers.  You may say that God already knows what you need and your intentions.  Like any good parent He wants to hear you say it...mean it...ask for it.  A loving parent will always answer the needs of his or her child, if only that they might say to the father or mother...I love you...I am your loving child.  Even a spoiled child can be heard through an earnest  request or plea.  And yes, we are all spoiled children of God.(except for me, of course:)!

 

 

END

 



Foot Prints and Pennies

Chicken.  I have been craving fried chicken all week.  I went to the store and got a bag of fried chicken.  It smelled so good that I was worried that I might get attacked by a "Chicken Mugger" that might want fried chicken, too.  Well, I got home safely with my fried chicken and dove right into it.  I felt as if I went to "Chicken Heaven" and it tasted like that, too.

If I buy fried chicken at the deli it is already prepared and ready to go.  I don't need to cut it up, fry it up or clean up. In the long run it is cheaper than cooking from scratch, the energy of time, gas, and frying it myself.  It comes out to just about the same cost wise, as if I had done it all myself.  And the deli makes very good fried chicken.  I am now one happy chicken eater.  YUM!

There are all kinds of ads pushing consumers to buy gold.  I can't eat gold.  Gold is too heavy to carry around in your pocket, it isn't safe to have gold in your house, and the poor or near poor can not afford to buy gold, anyway.  Even the so-called middle class can not really afford to buy or own gold.  You just can't consume gold.  Only the affluent can delve into the gold market.

Everyone has a penny jar and that is where your currancy wealth lies. Start digging for gold in your penny jars and sift through all your spare change.  Look for pennies that were minted before 1983 because they are made of pure copper and have gone up in value.  A real copper penny is worth somewhere around 7 cents.  Metal currency has value especially if it is silver and not silver clad.  A paper dollar does not have much value at all.  That is why when the treasury takes back old, damaged, worn paper money....they just burn it.  They don't want you to have it, either!  Up in smoke!

Anyway, roll your pre1983 pennies and keep them as a future spendable currency.  Anything after 1983 you can take to the bank or spend.  I recommend that you go to your favorite fast food place and enjoy using up the newer pennies that are not all copper that turn green and corrode.  Better yet, depending on your amount of semi-copper pennies...stock up with non-perishables.  Even the newer pennies will have some value, but not as much as the older, real coper ones.  While your at it or thinking about it, save your older nickles, too.

So...now you have my two cents worth which is probably worth around 14 cents.  "A penny for your thoughts?"  Remember when a penny would actually but something?  Now you are surprised to get it back in change.

+++

 

MAY YOU WALK

WORTHILY

OF GOD

AND PLEASE HIM

IN ALL THINGS,

BEARING FRUIT

IN EVERY

GOOD WORK

AND GROWING

IN THE KNOWLEDGE

OF GOD.

 

 Colossians Ch. 1: 10

 

Not an easy task, walking in such shoes as Peter writes of.  Easy to read and add to a blog, but not so easy to practice.  I find that as hard as I try I keep putting my foot into my mouth.  I have a big foot and a small mouth.  Once I get my foot wedged into my mouth it is pretty hard to get it out again.  Or...I am inclined to mouth inane, stupid things and once coupled with my big foot...well, the taste just isn't too yummy.  But I learn.  And I try to walk worthily without leaving my footprints all over my face.

 

END

 

 



 



Going with the flow

I didn't do much today.  I just didn't want to.  I could have and should have...but didn't.  I did bring in an electric heater from the back storage area.  I won't need it tonight, but I will have it inside when I need it.  I won't wait until the last minute to pull it out.  I think that I should get some kerosene for the kerosene heater, too, and have that ready as well.

This week is supposed to be a week of off and on rain and showers.  It will warm up slightly, too.  The weather man says that there may be a more than normal rain amount for September.  Well, guess what...September is fading fast so Mother Nature will have to step it up a little.

One thing that I intend to do before cold sets in is to make a door/draft snake for the back door/s.  I need to buy a bag of Kitty Litter for the filling  I have plenty of heavy material on hand.  I just need to get myself into gear with it.  I swear, I am getting lazier by the day.  Somebody come give me a good push.

I slept late this morning because I stayed up until the wee hours watching a good kid movie.  I have not stayed up that late for some time.  That probably accounts for my non-productive day.  Well, I had good intentions, 'though!

Yesterday I stayed at the Home after mass and had lunch with Father and his lunch (table) bunch.  He is elderly and is still not quite up to par from his bout with pneumonia.  I am not sure he really knows my name after all the years because he always referres to me or introduces me as the person that took care or his sister when she was a resident.  Well, that is OK.  He is very hard of hearing and in his eighties.  Other people took care of his sister, too, but I don't know if he remembers.  That's all right, too.

So,  I will soon be off to bed.  I won't make any plans for tomorrow.  I will just go with the flow of time and circumstances.  And that is OK.  That's life in my slow lane.

+++

 

CASTING ALL

YOUR CARES

UPON HIM

FOR HE CARES

FOR YOU.

 

1 Peter 5: 7

 

***

 

I read two different translations of this short verse, and of course they are slightly different, yet the same.  You may wish to read more of 1 Peter for the full context.  It is always enlightening.  Read, read, read.

 

END

PAPER CUTTING THE CHURCH

Tomorrow is Sunday...all day...and I get the day off...other than going to mass.  I won't want to get up because it is supposed to be down in the 40's in the morning.  I will want to stay snug in my bed, all warm and toasty.  I will get up, 'though and turn on the heater in the bathroom for my shower.

I am not a person that really likes cold weather.  I don't like it too hot, either.  I am a picky person, but in the end I will take what I get and like it...well, maybe.

I have had a headache most of the day which is probably from sinus blockages.  I guess it will leave after the first frost.  I tried to work outside a little this afternoon, but I was attacked by "Killer Mosquitoes."  I gave up and came back inside.  The tiny ones hurt more than the big daddy one's and itch like crazy.  Maybe after the first frost they will be gone, too.

Some areas just north of here will probably get an early frost.  This would be early as the average frost in this area is around Oct. 15th.  What a odd weather year it has been.

There isn't much news or events of interest.  I did read that the deer herd is infected with some sort of malady in more than 40 counties.  I didn't read the article well.  I don't know what the deer have picked up this fall.  And It is fall.  We just had the Autumnal Equinox.  Winter will be our next guest.  I hope when she comes to visit that she doesn't stay too long.  I have my suspicions that she will be an unwanted house guest when she does show up.  Sigh...

+++

 

WHEN GOD

IN THE BEGINNING

CREATED MAN,

HE MADE HIM

SUBJECT

TO HIS OWN

FREE CHOICE.

IF YOU CHOSE

YOU CAN KEEP

THE COMMANDMENTS;

IT IS LOYALTY

TO DO HIS WILL.

 

***

Sirach 15: 14-15

 

Did you know that you have free will and the freedom to make life choices, good or bad or even indifferent?  At least in the U.S.A. we still believe that.  As I write this I know that religious freedom is being whittled away on all fronts in the most insidious manners.  Like tiny paper cuts, we may not see where the little knife has sliced into our basic tenants of Freedom of Religion and of Free Speech; the multiple little wounds are the cuts that hurt the most.  The church is under attack and is being marginalized in such a manner.  Will we chose to defend what we deem sacred and God inspired?   Defend with the Written Word  and Sacred practices, with the mouth you have for spreading what is true and Biblical.

 



END

 





SHINE ON!

 I came home from mass and took a very long nap.  I didn't get anything done inside or outside.  No, I don't feel very guilty about it.  I have done some hard work these past few days.

Anyway, that also means that I have nothing to write about: sorry.  Tomorrow I should be busier and more productive...I hope.

+++

 

WATCH

AND PRAY

THAT YOU

MAY NOT

ENTER

INTO

TEMPTATION.

THE SPIRIT

INDEED

IS WILLING

BUT

THE FLESH

IS WEAK.

 

Matt. 26: 41

 

Today was the feast day of Saint Matthew.  He was a tax collector, left his trade and followed Jesus.  And as the verse goes, I am willing, too, but sometimes I just have sit back and take a day off.  We all need to rest and recharge.  Our batteries tend to get low on energy from time to time.  If we do not plug in for a little R&R, we tend to wind down and dim out or even fail.  "This Little Light of Mine" wants to shine in the dark even if my batteries do not enable me to glow brightly.  I guess I am running on those little 9 volts batteries that are small and only emit so much energy!  So, I spent the day recharging my little 9 volts .  How about you?

 

END

 

 

 

WORK IS PRAYER, TOO

Yes, I did.  I worked hard.  It may not appear so, but the yard work I did was slow, tedious, and physical.  I have a lot more to do before the fall season is upon us.  The spirit is willing, but...I'm not as young as I used to be!

Tomorrow I will just forget about working hard and just go on to mass.  I will enjoy that a whole lot more, I think.  After mass there is plenty to do inside the house.  Or I may get ambitious if it doesn't rain and go back out into the yard.  Or I may go shopping and get a few few things...decisions...decisions...Oh, what shall I do.

The leaves are starting to turn and drop.  They are actually drying on the trees and coming down.  They are not pretty this year.  The drought is probably the reason why and we are still below normal for rainfall.  That may change and the leaves may yet become lovely to look at.

As I worked myself well, and I am well tired out, I will go to bed early and seep well, I will.  LOA's.

+++

 

LET YOUR HAND

BE READY

TO HELP ME,

FOR I HAVE

CHOSEN

YOUR PRECEPTS

I LONG

FOR YOUR .

SALVATION

O LORD,

AND YOUR LAW

IS MY DELIGHT.

 

Psalm 118: vs 173-174

 

****

 

Psalm 118 is pretty long and has 176 verses.  However, it is worth the time to read it and it is divided into sections that make it a bit easier to follow.  Of course, all of the Psalms should be read and digested.  The Psalms or the main structure of the Liturgy of the Hours, or the LOTH's, found in the official prayers of the church. Not everyone is so blessed as to have a LOTH's prayer book, let alone a Bible.

 

By the way, different Bibles may be translated according to the language  and numbered slightly differently, too.  But if you search you will find what you are looking for...and more.

 

END

 



LIFE JACKET OR LIIFE LINE

I think that tonight is a good night to wear my "warmies" to bed.  Last night it was down around 44 degrees and tonight it will be similar.  My "warmies" are a sweat shirt and sweat pants.  That was my sole intent for them when I bought them; to keep me warm at night.  I could smell wood smoke this morning so someone had a fire going for heat.  I don't want to turn on the heat until I absolutely must-like in November!

I generally do not like to attend funeral masses, if I can avoid them.  Today's mass was for someone I didn't know and I went...thinking that it was an older person, and often the older a person is, the sparser the the turnout to see them on their journey.

Today the mass was quite beautiful and there were a lot of family and friends to see him off.  I wish all funeral masses were so spiritual and uplifting for the grieving family members.
 
After I got home I changed my cloths and went to work in the yard.  There is so much to be done.  Even 'though I worked hard last week in the the yard, I am still trying to catch up with it.  For that reason I will skip mass tomorrow and try to get a lot more done.  I won't be able to get outside work  done on Friday as there is a prediction for rain.  So, on Friday, if it does rain, I will haul myself off to church.

So...tonight I am even more tired that I was last night...and both my feet hurt...and everything else, too!  Well, someone has to do it...LOA's!

I am thinking of making a big, big pot of home made Chili. It is now the season for it and it is so good and filling.  My mother used to make a version of it.  She would add noodles of one type or an other and some vegetables.  She got no complaints from us!  I will need to pick up a lb. or two of hamburger as I don't have any on hand or in the freezer.

+++

 

I WILL LEAVE

IN THE MIDST

OF THEE

A POOR

AND NEEDY

PEOPLE,

AND THEY

SHALL HOPE

IN THE NAME

OF THE LORD.

 

Sophonias 3,  part 11-vs. 11

 

Sophonias is an interesting prophet and I have referred to his writings before. He speaks of the coming of Jesus and of the conversions of the Gentiles as well as the punishments of diverse nations.  There is nothing new today that was not foreseen in the times of and reign of Josias.  We are still in the same boat and trying to paddle it upstream.  Our boat is ever leaking and the current is strong against us.  I hope everyone has a life jacket and it is of good Christ-made quality.  PAX

 

END

 

 

Yawn-I'm tired

I'm a little tired this evening and yawning a lot.  Every time I yawn my ear pop!

I have been out running around and found that gas has gone up in price again.  I wasn't happy about that at all.

Anyway, I am going to make this a very short post, say my prayers and crawl into my bed....yawn, yawn, yawn.

+++

 

FOR WHERE

YOUR

TREASURE IS,

THERE

YOUR HEART

WILL BE

ALSO.

 

Matt. 6: 21

 

Did you look into your box of treasures today?

 

END



GOD IN A BOX

"..Religion," for the most part, is "organized," and based on a platform of Gospel teachings, written and oral traditions, church membership, directed activities, and prescribed worship.  It is necessary, but not the end to a means, but certainly has its place in the world.  "Build your house on a firm foundation."

Most of us keep God in a little box, seldom opened and seldom seen in the light of day by our fellow Christians.  We keep the light hidden and God in a box.  The box has a platform or foundational base, and four walls. Within our box we secret all our little trinkets and other items of perceived value.  We tend to know what is in the box, but most of the time we do not look to see what may be hidden at the bottom.  We should open the box and look deeply at the contents of the little box containing our most treasured possessions.  Everyone has a little box in which we seek to keep safe for ourselves that which we value, and from others.  Some things should never be religated into dimmness, not to be seen.

Our little boxes are much like a lot of containers that are purposed to keep moths and rust out. The thing about locking God in a Box is...God wants O-U-T. We should desire to turn God loose in our daily lives and let Him reign free...or as free as we in our weakness can abide

If you examine the box carefully you will discover that the box has a bottom, four walls, but no lid upon it.  God wants to be freely assessable and not relegated to the bottom of the box in near darkness.  God wants to shine!  God wants US to shine...like the candle in the dark!

Very few of us let God out of the box, to rise, grow and expand within our hearts and spirit.  That  box is a pretty safe place to keep God, isn't it?  There is a sense of stability within the four walls with a strong bottom, that makes us feel that we will not fall through or over the edge.  But God doesn't like to be stuck in a box.  If God is stuck in a box...then so are we.

We limit our knowledge of God, His power and grace, and all that is offered to us, but if we would just willingly open up that inner container that we call our spirit...what a powerful light that would be!

The great Saints were able to knock down the constraints of their inner boxes somewhat, and soar with the Christ the King.  It isn't an easy task and wasn't for them, either...nor will it be for any of us that seek after the Promises of Christ.

Not all of us are saints....I certainly am not, but all of us...any of us, can kick down a wall or two, if we try.  Go ahead, give that little safety box a good, swift kick or two.  It might hurt a little or even a lot, but you will get over it.

We all live in spiritual boxes to some extent.  Most of our little prisons are boxes of our own creation.  The walls that we build into boxes can be dismantled...one nail at a time.

I was thinking that today would be a fairly quite day, and so it was for the most part.   I will be out tomorrow "watching the floor" while all the employees got to a meeting to watch a "rapper priest."  I wish I were going, too!!

+++

 

ALL THINGS

ARE LAWFUL,

BUT NOT

ALL THINGS

ARE EXPEDIENT.

ALL THINGS

ARE LAWFUL

BUT NOT

ALL THINGS

EDIFY.

LET NO ONE

SEEK HIS WON

INTEREST,

BUT THOSE

OF HIS

NEIGHBOR.

 

1 Cor. 10: 23-24

SUGAR AND STUFF

The harvest is coming in.  At least some of it.  I went back to the store and got 10 lbs of potatoes for $2.99, onions for $1.29 for a three lb. bag and 10 cans of pasta sauce for .88 cent a can. I also found some meat marked down on Polish Sausage and smoked Turkey and Beef.  I did get  a few other items, but that was my haul for the day. All of the canned and dry goods are still in the van.  Gas has dropped two $3.59 a gallon for now.  I am checking my account to see if I can continue to stock up and fill up. 

It always sounds like I have a never ending supply of money, but I am very cognizent of what I spend...and careful as what I buy now will need to last through winter or bad weather.  I look for a cold, snowy winter.

The price of candy has gone up.  I buy candy for the residents at the home and now it is about 30 cents higher per bag, than it was a couple week ago.  It is because of the drought and the poor corn crop.  Corn syrup is used in most candy.  I don't see it getting much cheaper, plus corn is added to gasoline for better or cheaper mileage.  Well, we don't get much of an advantage in the long run and it takes food from the tables of many in need.  Not good.

+++

 

THEREFOR,

WHETHER

YOU EAT OR

DRINK

OR DO

ANYTHING

ELSE,

DO ALL

FOR

THE GLORY

OF GOD

 

1 Cor. 10: 11

 

It often sounds like I have a strong connection to my stomach.  Well, I guess I do.  Me and my tummy are best of friends...most of the time.  At times 'though I get carried way with  a craving for candy or something sugary.  I have to watch myself as it is a weakness on my part.  You could call me a sugar-holic.  As far as I know there are no 12 Step programs for those of us that must have a "sugar-fix."  It is a good thing that I see the gluttonous desire of my candy addiction...otherwise I would be four feet wide and expanding.  Help me, Lord, to not focus on the yummy stuff and remember that there are so many that can't put bread on their tables, let alone indulge in the desire for the sweets of life.  I am so weak, YOU are strong, but I pray to be stronger.

 

 

END

 

 

 





 

FLEET OF FOOT

I went shopping.  I got a gallon of milk.  The price of milk has come down.  Today it was $2. 18 for whole milk.  What was funny is that 2% and skim milk cost more.  They are milk products that have been denuded of wholesomeness that we grew up on.   Try getting milk in a fast food place.  Most places do not carry it because they make a good profit on soft drinks.  One fast food place that does have milk is Wendy's.  Order milk for your children when you go out and see what you won't get.  Good luck trying to find a fast food place that has milk for kids instead of soft drinks.

Anyway, I did get a few groceriess, most of which are still in the van.  I brought in the perishables and left the canned goods in the van.  I will bring them in as I can.

I like to go to The Family Dollar Store because I can get Tomato and Chicken Noodle soups there for fifty cents a can.  So, today I got eight cans.  It is really good to have them on hand, especially since for the last three weeks I have not been out to buy food.  'Though I have  a lot in the freezer yet, it is slowly dwindling away.  I do want to use it all up, 'though, so that it doesn't get too old.

The weather has changed as we near the autumnal equinox.  We will soon be changing  time, too.  Right now I am enjoying the cool nights and really nice days of mid-September.  I sleep well when it is cooler.  And we got a light rain today; we still need rain.



+++

 

 

DO YOU NOT KNOW

THAT THOSE WHO

RUN IN A RACE,

ALL INDEED RUN,

BUT ONE

RECEIVES THE

PRIZE?

SO RUN

AS TO

OBTAIN IT.

 

1 Cor. 9: 24

 

I hope that all are fleet footed with strong lungs and the determined will to win the race.  The course is long and arduous.  There is rough ground to be covered; the track is often pitted with obstacles that can't be seen or felt until we stumble.  Chances are that we will fall often as we run the race, than in coursing  smoothly along the way.  We will find ourselves down on one knee, two knees and trying to get to our spirits upright again.  I, for one, need to be helped up and propped up and given a little shove forward...now and again.  It is why I go to Mass(church) so that I can move with some resolve to finish the race and win the prize.  Wish me good blessings and push me on.  I fall often as I round the track.  Pick me up, Lord, and set my feet and face toward you, into the sun.

 

END

I know...I am boring tonight...that's life.

What did I get done today?  Just about nothing.  Maybe I did too much stepping out yesterday and don't feel like stepping out today.  I didn't go shopping, either.  Maybe tomorrow after mass.

Therefore, there isn't much to write about that would be of interest to anyone.  And besides... I am lazy tonight and just don't feel like writing much.  TV is all bad news and I don't have a good book...so I am going to bed.

 

 

+++

IF WE WALK

IN THE LIGHT,

AS HE IS

IN THE LIGHT,

WE HAVE

FELLOWSHIP

WITH

ONE ANOTHER,

AND THE BLOOD

OF JESUS CHRIST

HIS SON

CLEANES US

FROM ALL SINS.

 

 

1 John 1:7

 

 

END

PENNIES FROM HEAVEN

O-U-T!  I went to Mass at noontime.  Tomorrow I will try to do a little shopping.  I want something good that isn't good for me.  And milk...I want milk.  I need milk for my coffee.

After I got home from Mass I didn't do much.  I fell asleep on the couch.  I did stop for gas on the way home.  It has come down from $3.96. 9/10 to $3. 76.  I don't know why they add the nine tenth of a cent, but they always do.  They might as well tell the truth in pricing and just add the extra penny.  You never see something like $15.00 and nine tenth on a receipt, do you?  All those nine tenth of a penny add up when people buy gas all across the nation.  Clever, yes?

+++

 

FOR THERE

IS NOTHING

HIDDEN

THAT WILL

NOT BE MADE

MANIFEST

NOR IS

ANYTHING

CONCEALED

THAT WILL

NOT COME

TO LIGHT.

 

Mark 5: 23

 

It isn't any secret that you/we-now spend about half a working year just to pay taxes.  What we don't think about or often don't know of, is the multitude of hidden taxes.  There are taxes one everything. Just sit down and think about it and start adding up all the little taxes that we render to the government, state, city and all the local levies upon your income.  Probably a good portion of your "disposable income" seeps away through all the little cracks, and holes in the tax structure.  Of course, we  need to pay our just due in taxes, but it does say in the Bible that we are to "Render unto Cesare what is Cesare's and to God what is God's.  We pay our taxes to the powers that be, but what do we pay or give to God?

 

END

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Foot loose and fancy free? Naa!

"NEVER FORGET"

 

I got of the house a little today.  I went and got my hair cut.  I essentially went from the house to the van, from the van into the beauty shop.  It was not a fun experience, but I managed.  And since the Chinese Restaurant was right next door, I had lunch there.  Then back to the van and home.  Not a big excursion out, but "a step in the right direction."  I probably should have used a cane, but I am determined to "walk it out."

It was worth the effort and the discomfort.  And I got to eat out so I don't have dishes to wash or a clean up in the kitchen.  Today it was a hill and tomorrow a mountain.  I plan on going to noon-time Mass.  That may be a little more demanding because the ramp is uphill and fairly long.  I just can't become or be a house flower so it will be a  good  endeavor.

That has been the extent of my day and I got a late start on it.  I didn't get much done, either.  Well, the house doesn't look too bad, at least not to me at this time.  It might look awful to anyone else ' though!  I do need to pick up those socks that I mentioned last eve! 

+++

 

LET YOUR FACE

SHINE UPON

YOUR SERVANT;

SAVE ME

IN YOUR

KINDNESS.

 

Psalm 30: 17

 

We are all servants; We have many masters.  We think that we are our own taskmaster, but we are not.  We always answer to someone, sometime.  We can in one respect, chose one Master and follow that Shepherd as sheep following the protector of the flock.  I just read the other day that most of the supporters of our President are non-believers.  There is an old saying: "You get what you pay for."  Spend your wealth wisely in this life for the next.

 

END



 



LIFE

I smell something bad.  It's dead.  I don't  know what it is. I don't know where it is.  I don't know if it is inside or outside.  Believe me, I have looked.  I just know that something is dead.  Maybe that is why the dogs next door were barking for hours and  hours.

This has been an uneventful day.  Nothing to write about, brag about, complain about or talk about.  Just another day;  gift.

I was thinking about religion.  I equate religion with socks.  Yup, socks.  Every morning when we get up we put on clean socks or stockings.  Like starting a new day with clean socks, we start our day out fresh and ready to walk the day away.

Religion is a little like that.  Each day we can begin to "hit the road" and move forward with clean feet and hose, or a clean slate, if you will.  A strange analogy, I know, and some of my socks are a little worn and need repair work.  We are like the socks; if there are holes in your socks you need to stop and take stock of your socks and mend them...or put on  new or better "socks" or "new garments," casting off what does not serve The Lord.

I read last night that trials are gift.  There are a gift if you learn from the trials and tribulations, and they bring you into the presence or closer to God, but I believe the greatest gift is life itself.  Without the gift of life all else is pretty much meaningless.

 

 

I AM THE WAY,

THE TRUTH,

AND THE LIFE;

NO MAN

COMES UNTO

THE FATHER

BUT BY ME.

 

John 14:6

 

END

 



 

 

 

 





ME STRONG! HOWABOUT YOU?

Cabin Fever...I have cabin fever.  That means that I have not been out for two weeks, unless you count mowing grass.  I don't.  Well, I am saving money, 'though.  I can't get out to spend any. 

I mopped the kitchen floor.  It was a sit down job.  I thought I missed some spots or that I was seeing spots before my eyes.  What I thought were spots were actually little bumps and dimples in the linoleum.  I only figured that out after I mopped those "spots" a second time, tried to scrape the  spots off and then shone a bright light on the "spots."  Dumb me, trying to  mop up what wasn't there.  Well, I did say it was a sit down job.

I cooked a late supper of steak and onions.  I was pretty hungry after all that "work and spot checking."  It was a good meal as I haven't really cooked much for the last couple of weeks.  Lunch meat and soup are OK, but I wanted to eat about half a cow.  And I got all my pots and dishes cleaned up, too.  The kitchen looks semi-better.  Just don't look too closely.

Spiders, spiders, everywhere.  The weather is changing and the insects know it before we do.  It will be cool tonight and in the morning.

Again, I won't be going out for Mass in the morning.  I don't trust myself to hobble about among a lot of people.  They won't mean to, but there are always little pushes here and there and people stepping on toes.  So...I am keeping my toes at home.  I just don't think I can do it yet.

I have been watching INTO THE WEST this afternoon.  It was good twenty years ago and it is good today.  It is one re-run that I don't mind seeing over again.  It keeps with the historical account of the opening of the west and at the same time tells a good story.  It is worth watching over and I will.

+++

 

 

THEY THAT WAIT

UPON THE LORD

SHALL RENEW

THEIR STRENGTH

((THEY SHALL PUT

ON STRENGTH

AS A NEW GARMENT));

THEY SHALL

MOUNT UP

WITH WINGS

AS EAGLES;

THEY SHALL RUN

AND NOT BE WEARY;

THEY SHALL WALK

AND NOT FAINT.

 

Isiah 40: 31

 

God give us the promise of strength, not in this life, but in the next.  In this life we need strength, as well.  We need strength of character, resolve, determination and the will to make the right choices, and follow the right path of faith.  Sometimes we are not very strong and do not adhere to what we know is the right way of strength.  As I am hard-headed, stubborn and willful, I often rely  on my own devices and concepts of strength.  Of course, I know better, but there is   wisdom in learning through a few hard knocks...sort of a wake-up-call, if you will.  I have had a few wake-up calls, haven't you?  In the end we know that our strength comes from God and not from ourselves.

 

END

 

 

 

 



MULE HEADED ME...WHO ME?

I am a little tired tonight.  I have been doing what I am not supposed to do.  I have been on my feet for several hours.  I absolutely had to get some mowing done.  With the aid of a cane at times and using the mower for good support, I got the job done.  It is a bit raggedy, but the backyard is cut.  I set the mower up for a seven inch cut and that really wasn't enough.  I had to plow through the tall grass.  And then the heavy rains came.  I managed to stay ahead of the storm, but it was several hours of hard work in 90 degree temperatures and high humidity, to do the work.  I just can't sit around for six to eight weeks waiting for my foot to heal. Yes, my foot hurts now and I am hobbling about like someone of 102, but, what else is new?

People keep telling me I am stubborn and hard headed...I can't imagine why, can you?  Hmm, it is a trait that runs in my family...part of my DNA, I think.  Your going to ask, "
Why didn't you hire someone to mow the yard?"  Well, that takes money and my money tree died in the summer drought.

Yes, I am tired and going to bed soon, but happy that I was able to get some work done that desperately needed attention.  And I give Thanks, too, for my stubborn nature and all that!

+++

 

FOR

GOD

NOTHING

WILL BE

IMPOSSIBLE.

 



 Luke 1:37

 

Tomorrow is the Feast Day

celebrating the birth

of Mary.

 

END

MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE!

This evening I finished off the slab of barbecue ribs that I got out of the freezer several days ago.  Ribs are not a favorite of mine, but I am eating what I have.  The freezer is getting an empty look, but I still won't go hungry.  Because of my penchant for "Stocking Up" there are plenty of canned goods to dig into.  I would rather have them on hand for the winter months, but right now they are coming in handy.

Politics are rampant on TV.  I don't watch the big conventions and all the buzz that goes with all the hype.  And that is what it is; all hype.  I will not vote for either candidate that is running.  I have nothing against Obama or Romney, but I feel that there were better men running in the beginning that have dropped out. Politics is all about money and power and the "good guys" just didn't get the financial clout or backing.  They just were not part of the "good 'ol boys" club.   We will get whoever the "good 'ol boys" decide they will find most advantageous to their agendas.  It has been a very,very long time since we have had real "democratic" elections.  Probably not since Lincoln.

Anyway, I don't know how I got of on this tangent as it was really not what was on my mind.  That's what happens when you get stuck in the house; you get stupid fever, and revert to politics.  Please do not get "stupid politics fever."  You will die of boredom.

This what I was really thinking about:  I wonder why?  Yes, I do wonder why.  As the Liturgy of the Hours(LOTHs)is the official prayer of the Church and we(all)are exhorted to pray the Liturgy daily, I wonder why the Church  has never picked out more uplifting, loving, joyful, positive Psalms as the daily prayers of the day.  So many of the Psalms of the day are negative, violent, depressing, hostile, fearful of God and of a vengeful God mind set.  There are so many Psalms to incorporate into the LOTHs. I just wonder why the Church has not presented these prayers in a more illuminated venue within the LOTHs.

The Psalms are never to be cast out or done away with.  They are the foundational platform of today's Church.  The Psalms are great literature and poetry.  Of course, they are to be kept, but I think I would pray more effectively if more joyful psalms were the greater part of the LOTHs.

As Christ came to suppliant the old and introduce us to gospel of love, forgiveness and tolerance, shouldn't the official prayer of the Church reflect this in greater portions?  Well, I am just wondering.  I am not an authority on any of this and I will abide by the Church's wisdom...but as I am a little simple-minded... I just wonder.

+++

 

REJOICE IN THE LORD

ALWAYS;

AGAIN I SAY REJOICE..

 

Philippians 4: 4

 

My God is a God of peace, joy, love and tolerance.

 

END



THE DIVINE LIURGY-WORD

I've been looking through some of my old prayer books and Missals as well as older-now out of date-Divine Office Books...or the Liturgy of the Hours.  There have been a lot of changes over the years.  The Divine Office used to be a lot easier to pray.  Times change and so must we.  From what I have been reading The LOTH will change again.   As the Church moves slowly and deliberately, I won't worry about it in my life time. 

I like things simple and some of the changes are simple, but not all.  I think that keeping the LOTH in a simple, easy format, would be most advantageous for all that pray the Divine Office.  Or it could be that I just don't like flipping pages or places in the Book.

As you know, the Liturgy of the Hours is the official prayer of the church and all are encouraged to pray the Office on a daily bases, if possible.  Not everyone has access to an Office Book or the money to buy one.  In such such instances I would say use and pray in out-dated books as opposed to not praying at all.  God know your intents. 

My reasoning for such a recommendation is that many of my readers are from other countries and not able to acquire prayer books of any kind.  Use what you have or can acquire, perhaps from donations.  If all else fails...and especially, pray in your heart.  You will be heard.

Lots of wind today and some rain.  My yard looks like a jungle now, and I can't get out to mow it.  We need the rain so I shouldn't complain.  We are still below the average rain level.  Let it rain.  I can live with high grass as long as I don't find a big lizard slithering thereabouts.  Nope, don't want any jungle creatures in the tall grass, either.

+++

 

I WILL PRAY

WITH THE SPIRIT,

I WILL PRAY ALSO

WITH  THE

UNDERSTANDING.

I WILL SING

WITH THE SPIRIT,

I WILL SING ALSO

WITH THE

UNDERSTANDING.

 

1 Cor. 14: 15

 

I read this passage with amusement.  Right now I can not sing a note.  I sound like a bull frog in the bottom of a barrel.  And that is pretty bad!

 

END

 



PROPHECY OF SOPHONIAS...WHO?

This afternoon I did a little "house cleaning" on my blog page.  I removed several inactive or nearly inactive blog roll sites.  It is something that I needed to do for some time and finally got to it.  Now, if I can just clean house.

I have been trying to walk about without the aid of a cane or holding on to furniture.  Maybe I am not quite ready to declare independence.  Time heals all sore tootsie and I have the time.  Just not the patience as there are many things waiting to be done.

There are several subjects that I would like to write about, but not now.  I guess I will let the subjects roil around in my head, steep for a bit and let them peculate through.  We make better coffee and tea that way, too.  It is like using a strainer to remove all grounds and tea leaves that just make the brew less palatable. But...I'll get to it...in time.

I had hoped to get out to week-day mass tomorrow, but I don't think I will make it.  My foot is still puffy, bruised and "speaks" to me when I put much weight on it.  Boo Hoo, and all that.  There are people far worse off than me, so I will take it as it comes.  I will call it a minor "gift" of suffering and offer it up for any grace that can be derived from it.  And yes, it is minor; just inconvenient.  I can and will, live
with it.

Another local boy is coming home from Afghanistan the silent way, under a flag draped coffin.  Of what use is war?  What does it accomplish?  While I respect and admire our young gladiators, I can not see the good of loss of life on both sides of the world's everlasting wars.  I suppose I am being idealistic and pray for better solutions to such useless bloodshed and losses....there must be a better way...and there is.

 

+++

 

BE SILENT

BEFORE THE FACE

OF THE LORD

GOD,

FOR THE DAY

OF THE LORD

IS NEAR;

FOR THE LORD

HAS PREPARED

A VICTIM

HE HAS

SANCTIFIED

HIS GUESTS.

 

Sophonias 1: 7

 

We don't hear a lot from the prophecy of Sophonias.  It is only a couple of pages of prophecy and  quickly read.  It is the foretelling of punishment upon the Jews, diverse nations, the coming of Christ, and the conversion of the Gentiles.  You may wish to read all of it; it won't take you long.

The "victim" is Christ and his "sanctified guest, the Apostles.  At the same time you might see the people of our times as victims as well.  Victims of a societies sliding backwards and  cultures losing their  principles and foundations.  If you build upon a "Rock" you will not be swept away.

 

END