Kids Today

I wrote this poems years ago but now our kids are targeted even more than when this was written. With the transgender movement and LBTQ movement we must be vigilant in protecting these vulnerable members of society. Not only is sexual perversion a problem the liberal agenda has targeted our young people in schools and are indoctrinating them into the agenda of the left.

Our children today can read of evolution

and are taught we come from apes.

They can learn of hate and prejudice

are are encouraged to murder and rape.

Family life is becoming obsolete

in this great country today.

Why it's just not cool

to kneel with your family and pray.

Alcohol, drugs, and sex

are the “in” things to do.

The only thing that really matters

is what feels good to you.

Our kids today are taught that sexual perversion

is nothing but an alternative lifestyle,

homosexuality is not a sin--

why I can almost see satan smile.

Our children are exposed to so many of satan's snares,

yet, in school they are not allowed to

bow their heads in prayer.

The Ten Commandments have been taken

out of our schools by law.

Because the government tries to tell us

they are meant for all!

The results of these perversions are

becoming clearer each day--

kids can kill each other

but it's wrong for them to pray.

A Modern Miracle

That Saturday began like every other day for my family—frantic rushing to get somewhere. Today my two older girls had soccer games and as usual we are running late. In the chaos of finding soccer gear and loading up the car a quarrel broke out with the two. “I'm riding in the front seat!” “No I am!” This argument went on for what seemed like hours. Finally, I had enough of this nonsense so I ordered both to get in the back seat so we could leave.
When they finally realized I meant what I said but still mouthing insults to each other, they got in the car. When I heard the last door slam, I heard a frightening scream from the younger boy. I looked back to see what was wrong and my blood ran cold with horror. His hand was stuck in the closed door. I jumped out and tried to open the door but it would not open! My husband came out of the house to see what all the screaming and crying was. He frantically tried to open the door but it was stuck.
“Call 911!' I was still attempting to pry open the door. Just as Mom ran to the house to make the phone call, the Em Ts pulled into the driveway. “We were passing your house when we noticed the frantic activity.” one of the men shouted as he came running to the car. I hurriedly explained what had happened. He then began shouting orders while he tried to open the door. Still the door would not budge and the child's hand would not come out.
Now the flurry of activity became even more hectic while the kids were crying and I was praying that God would keep His hand over Christian's hand to minimize the damage to his hand. The EMTs were just as panicked as the rest of us when one turned to me and asked permission to break the car windows in order to use the jaws of life to open the door. “Do what you have to do,” I tearfully replied. With all the prayers that went up today, God surely was listening. The medics tried the door again and it opened up.
Now by this time we had drawn quite a crowd and cheers went up that surely must have reached heaven. I turned around and saw the ambulance waiting in the driveway. While Christian's hand was packed in ice and he was loaded into the ambulance, my daughter grabbed her stomach and moaned. Yes, the mother of this precious child was eight months pregnant. She was rushed into the ambulance with Christian and both of them were rushed off to the hospital—he went for treatment and she went for a checkup to assure her safety and the precious baby she was going to have in a month.
Mom and I followed in my car and rushed into the emergency room. Christian was calm and quiet as the doctors checked out his hand. I imagined every bone and muscle destroyed and when his hand was uncovered there did not appear to be any damage at all. The nurses got him ready to have Xrays and Mom was holding his other hand. I reluctantly left and went to the OB-GYN department to see how my daughter was doing. After she was thoroughly checked out and her health and the health of the baby were confirmed, I went back to the ER to see about Christian. When I returned I heard laughing and cheering from the staff. “What is the prognosis?” I asked utterly confused by the cheerful atmosphere in the exam room. I then saw Christian and his hand was completely normal—even the swelling had gone. One nurse looked at me as she hugged Christian and he smiled through his tears. There was no damage at all to his hand. The ER doctor told us in his “professional” voice that we had all over reacted and had given in to hysteria. One paramedic was still there and was waiting until we found out everything was fine told the doctor “That kid's hand was in that door for 45 minutes before the door would open. I guess if the family over reacted we “professionals” did too. This experience has taught me that miracles do happen because I just witnessed one.”
Yes, a miracle had just happened to us. No one can convince me that God does not perform miracles today. My grandson had an angel holding his hand over that child's hand. No one can convince me He was not protected by my heavenly Father and His angels.
Christian is now twelve years old and has not had any problems with his hand. There is no evidence at all that he suffered a traumatic injury of any kind.
So friends, yes there is a heavenly Father who watches over His children and protects us from dangers that befall us. I will never forget the day that God sent His angels to protect a three year old. Today Christian remembers that day he experienced God's unconditional love for him. His faith and mine were made stronger that day. If you ask him what happened that day he will tell you that God came down and held his hand.
Today's Whisper:
Think back and try to remember the love God showed you in a vulnerable moment. Some people say the age of miracles is over but I can attest to the fact that miracles can and still occur. We might not recognize them when we see them but they are there just the same. Have you swerved your car at just the right moment to avoid an accident? Has a financial breakthrough come at just the right time? Has your or a loved one's health improved when all hope was lost? These, my friends, are miracles that come to us from our loving Heavenly Father.



Today's Prayer:
Father, I know you are protecting each and every day. I can see your protection in many crises but I want to thank you for the times you have protected me when I didn't know I was in trouble. You have sent miracles in the form of other people that have helped me in my lowest. You have sent miracles in circumstances that seem to be designed to tear me down. I know now that you used those circumstances to make me whole and keep me safe. I have seen your miracles in the disappointments of this life. It was in those disappointments that you had something even better in store for me. I just want to say thank you Father for loving me so much.

Bloom Where You Are Planted

For I know the plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 29:11
The other day I was feeling stressed and overwhelmed. I had recently lost my job. We should have been able to make it and able to live comfortably on one income. However, we had recently been granted custody of three grandchildren, in addition to, one we have had for most of her life. I do love these children and will do anything to make sure they receive the love and care they need. I must admit that these extra mouths to feed and clothe did create some stress. To add to this stress, our “grown children” are always asking for financial assistance. I lost my job when I received custody of these children. Please don’t get me wrong, I have no regrets about this switching of roles in my life but I did feel upset because of the shortage of money to provide the little extras every child wants.
Now my cupboard is bare. I have a mountain of laundry and the sink is full of dirty dishes. I admit I started feeling sorry for myself and started complaining about my life situation. “Lord, show me what I can do to provide what these children need. I love them and want only the best for them. But am I what they need?”
Suddenly a peace came over me and I heard a whisper in my heart. “Go for a walk.” I did not think I had heard right but I heard the voice again. “Go for a walk.” “But God, I have too much to do: I have dishes to wash, floors to sweep and mop and laundry to do. Besides, the kids will be home in a few hours tired and hungry.” “Go for a walk.” “OK, Lord,” I said as I began putting on my walking shoes.
Wondering what I was supposed to learn, I started walking along a route I had taken before. Suddenly about halfway through my walk, I saw it. It was a beautiful flower growing through a crack in the sidewalk. It was the most beautiful flower I had ever seen. The petals were a beautiful yellow color and reminded me of a ray of sunshine. I looked around but did not see another flower like this anywhere. It was then that God began to teach me the lesson He wanted me to learn. “This is what I wanted you to see. That flower is growing in a hard place but it is growing where the seed fell. It has overcome obstacles like the hot sun beating down on it and people stepping on it. Yet it is still here because I have taken care of it. If I can take care of this flower, don’t you know that I will take care of you? I know you feel overwhelmed at tines and feel as though you are all alone. You are where I want you be at this point in your life. Those kids need you. You are the person I picked that will teach them about me. You are to be an example of my love and let them see me through your life. Don’t worry. Just put your trust in me. Whatever I ask of you, I will equip you. Remember, I do not call the qualified. I qualify the called.” Suddenly, a peace came over me and I knew I was fulfilling His plan for my life. I know that He will be with me and give me the wisdom and strength to accomplish what He wants me to do.
I went back home with reassurance that the dishes, the laundry, the cooking and the cleaning are important because I am doing God’s will by bringing up these children to know God and His love. Just like that flower in the sidewalk, God will watch over me and give me the strength to make it through each day. I know I am important in the lives of these children and they are learning about God through my love and care for them. I still get overwhelmed at times with everything that must be done but I know the work I am doing is the most important work that I can do. I can rest assured that what I am doing today will be passed on through these children and they will know God as their Father.
Today’s Whisper:
Do you get discouraged with your life’s work. Do you ever wonder why you are doing what you are doing? Write about how your life seems to be getting out of control and how a visit with God can set your life on the right track. Just like the flower, we must bloom where we are planted—whether it is as a stay at home mom or out in the work world.
Today’s Prayer:
Father, help me to remember that you are in control of my life and have placed me in the special life you want me to have. Don’t let me forget that you can take care of that flower growing in that hard place and you will always be there to take care of me. I love you and trust you with my life and know that you will bless me while I am doing your work. I know you have plans for my peace and happiness and I claim that promise.
Amen

If The Empty Nest Doesn't Occur Soon I'm Going To Fly The Coop!

Every little girl has a dream of meeting her Prince Charming, her Mister Right, and riding off into the sunset to live happily forever. This dream includes marriage, a little white house with a picket fence and, of course, children. Naturally these children should be a little boy who will fish, hunt, and play sports with his father and a little girl who will dress in ruffles and lace and be a “mama's little helper.” the dream continues and the children are grown and married with homes and children of their own. Ah, such a wonderful dream to have. However, dreams do not always come true. We often get a little reality check when life kicks us back to the real world. We learn that “happily ever after” only works in fairy tales. Reality teaches us that real life is where all the action is.

When my children grew up, they not only moved in with us again (and again), my daughter brought her children to live with us. Now please do not misunderstand me, I do love my children and grandchildren. I will fight to the death anyone who questions that. It is just that at this point in my life I was looking forward to time for me and my husband. I thought I could have time to spend doing things I wanted to do and spend time with the man I married but haven't seen in two weeks because I have either been at school for a meeting or at the ballpark watching a grandchild play little league.

Imagine if you can, a leisurely trip to the mall with no worries about cleaning house or cooking dinner. Perhaps a late afternoon move would be fun a lunch at one of those “fancy” restaurants. You know the kind. You actually go in and a waitress takes your order and serves you. You don't have to yell into a little box and you get fries whether you want them or not. After the mall and lunch I think I will—uh oh, I must be dreaming because for just a moment I thought I was having lunch at the mall. Well, when reality hits it often uses a sledge hammer doesn't it?

I guess I must come back to reality and clean the house and prepare dinner for my hungry bunch. I have to admit that preparing dinner is not as much fun as it once was. When the children were younger, I could prepare one meal and everyone would eat it without presenting any major problems. Now, however our schedules are so hectic that we seldom eat at the same time. Now with our busy schedules and different tastes my kitchen looks more like the kitchen of a fast food restaurant. Oh well, I guess it is nice to be needed—when it's time to clean up and scrub the cooked on food off the counters and floor.

I have started looking through magazines of beautiful homes and dreaming of living in a house that is as beautiful as the homes shown in these magazines. I'm not talking about expensive homes or expensive furniture. I'm talking about homes that stay clean with everything in its place. A home where you will not find a hair brush in the kitchen or a glass of milk in the bedroom. I am dreaming of the day when I can clean the house and it will stay clean for more than fifteen minutes at a time. I am not complaining though because right now you can eat off my kitchen floor. Yeah, there is a spot of mashed potatoes in that corner, gravy over there and bread crumbs scattered throughout.

I know that in the Bible the children of the Proverbs 31 woman rise up and call her blessed. My children rise up and call me when they need clean clothes, more junk food and the keys to the car or money for gas. Ah, the feeling of being needed. Such a wonderful feeling for a mother to have.

I do not live an unfilled life however. I happen to have front row seats to the biggest sporting events of the year. I'm not talking about some boring sports with players that are known nationwide and who seem to be larger than life. I know the hottest new baseball stars of the century and am even on first name bases with the players and their coaches. I am also a regular at the ballet and the prima ballerina calls me by her pet name for me—Nanny. Oh, I can't forget my volunteer work and charitable donations of which I am a faithful contributor. Let me see, there is the magazine subscription drive, the raffle ticket peddler, and the volunteer for the biggest dance of the season—the Daisy Scout cotillion. Ah, what a wonderfully busy by satisfying life I lead.

Although I do not have the opportunity for time alone to spend reading all the books I want to read or doing all the things I want to do for myself, I have learned to be like Paul—content in all circumstances. I have discovered that I have the greatest opportunity in the world. I am talking about influencing my family by living my life as a testimony to what Christ can do and has done for us. I want my children to see the awesome love that is possible in Him and through Him. I hope my family can learn from my example that with Christ all things are possible and without Him we can do nothing. I am trying to live my life so they can see my love for God and my appreciation for the blessings He has already given. us. I know my family will always remember me and want them to remember me my faith and my love for God. I want them to see this love through all the little things I do for them. I know that they will rise up and call me blessed. I want to leave them with the knowledge that everything I have done has been done out of my great love for them and my faith in God.

I want to show them that when they do leave my nest and start out on their own they will always have someone to call on they the times are tough and the nights are long. I won't be around always to pick them back up but there is a father will never leave or forsake His children. If they do not learn any of the lessons that I have attempted to teach them in life I want them to learn that one. He is always there for us, even when we mess up and think that we have no place to go or no one to listen to their problems. His nest will never be empty because He always has His arms open wide for us.

Today's Whisper:

A second grade teacher was teaching a unit on magnets. She asked the class, “what has 6 letters and picks up things?” little Johnny raised his hand and responded proudly, “Mother.” Ah, the wisdom of children. Although this is funny, it shows us how important a mother is in the lives of her children. It has been said that the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world. I have had the wonderful privilege of not only raising two children of my own but I have had the honor of raising four grandchildren. I have tried to instill in each of them the love of our Savior and hopefully have let them see His love and mercy in my own life.

Today's Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I want to thank you that you will never “kick us out of your nest” but will always be there to shelter us under your wings. I know that you are always ready soothe our hurts and heal our wounds that daily living inflicts upon us. I thank you Father for your tenderness and mercy even when we disobey and go our own way. You are the ultimate Father and have shown us the ultimate love. Thank you that you gave me the honor and privilege of caring for the children you placed in my home and heart. I pray they always remember the love I have for them and the love you have for them.

I'm Growing Down

That we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried with every wind of doctrine but may grow up in all things into Him who is the the head—Christ. Ephesians 4:14,15.

Recently my granddaughter completed kindergarten. Although she should have been happy and excited about entering first grade in the fall, she went around the house with a very sad look on her face. Instead of celebrating the end of the school year with her friends, she proclaimed, “I want to stay in kindergarten!” Needless to say, this took me by surprise but Tori refused to explain to me what she meant by that statement. One night after reading a story together and saying our prayers I again brought up the subject of going into first grade. “Aren't you excited about going into first grade in the fall?” “No Nanny I am not. I want to stay in kindergarten for the rest of my life.” Now this was not exactly what I expected to hear. My son and daughter were glad to be one of the big kids so they could be one of the old timers at school and the envy of the little kids in kindergarten.

After recovering from the shock of Tori's remarks I attempted to explain to her that we all graduate from one stage in life to another. I went on to tell how each stage is built upon the last stage to help us grow. Imagine my shock when she looked at me with tears running down her face and said, “Nanny I know but growing up is so scary.”

I hugged her to me and brushed the tears from eyes and sighed. She was right—growing up is scary. I was at a tonal loss for words of comfort until I had an idea (a brilliant idea for me). “Listen, honey,” I gently began. “ I know growing up is hard but I am growing older too and that is scary for me too.”

“Wow!” I thought to myself. “This is brilliant.” So I continued. “You know growing up can be fun. Just think of all the new things you are going to learn. You will make new friends and have so much fun. But I am growing older and won't be able to do as many things as I once did. That is what makes growing old scary for me.”
After I had finished explaining this to her, I congratulated myself on my new found wisdom. I sat back, kissed her cheek gently and asked her if she understood what I was saying. With solemn eyes she replied, “Yeah, I think so.” Then her blue eyes widened with understanding and a smile crossed her face. “I understand, Nanny,” she exclaimed with a leap into my arms. “I'm growing up sand you are growing down.” Wow! Out of the mouths of babes. I had not thought of it quite that way but she was absolutely right. I am “growing down.” I used to be able to mow my lawn, clean my house completely and still practice baseball with the kids. Now if I can make sure the house is clean enough not to be condemned by the health officials I congratulate myself on making it through another week.

This sobering conversation with Tori caused me to reflect on my life. I was reminded of the challenges I have faced in my life. Some of these challenges left me feeling overwhelmed and confused about the meaning of my life. I never doubted God's love but I did doubt my ability to stand on my own two feet. I realized that these challenges have made me stronger and wiser. I would not be the person I am today without these experiences. I realized that God had not let me down but had held me up during these trying times.

I might be growing down in the physical realm. But I know God is “growing me up” with His love and grace. He is always with me each day to give me the wisdom and strength I need to fulfill His purpose in my life.

As I thought back on my life span, I began to realize that we should not just grow down physically but we should always strive to grow up in Him. To grow up in the Lord is something we should all do whether we are young or old. I hope that I able to helpTori grow in her relationship with God and always look to Him for her strength.

Yes Tori, growing up can be scary but with God holding our hands, there is nothing we cannot do. I want you to remember that God will grow us to be the people He intends for us to be if we only believe that everything is possible with Him and He promises us life that is eternal and abundant.

Today's Whisper:

As we grow older we might find we are slowing down. Journal about how you feel about aging. What can you not do that you could in your younger days? It has been said that with age comes wisdom. Do you feel this is true and think about whether you would rather be older and wise or if this is a fair comparison.

Today's Prayer:

Father, I come before you today with a thankful heart that you are still working on me and haven't given up on me. You are always here with me to help me grow in your knowledge and grace. I ask that as the days and years pass I can look to you and know that you are still molding me into the woman you want me to be. I may be growing older in earthly years but I ask for your wisdom and grace each and every day that I have left on this earth.

Kids Today

I wrote this poem years ago but with the indoctrination of our children in schools today, it is even more relevant. A preschool student was recently traumatized when she called a “trans gendered student by his real name. Kids are being indoctrinated in Islam but are punished for mentioning Jesus. Letters were sent home to parents of young children requesting the parents instruct their children not to mention the name of Jesus in school. I recently published a post about a high school in Utah that exposed the student body to a presentation by a local LGBT group of poets that informed the students “I am queer and I am Trump's worst enemy.” The students were also directed to divide themselves into groups based on their sexual identity, gender identity and religious and political views. Our kids today are being assaulted on all sides by the liberal left and it is time for all Christians to take a stand to stop this bullying and indoctrination of our future.

Our children today can read of evolution

and are taught we come from apes.

They can learn of hate and prejudice

and are encouraged to murder and rape.

Family life is becoming obsolete

in this great country today.

Why it's just not cool

to kneel with your family and pray.

Alcohol, drugs and sex

are the “in things” to do.

The only thing that really matters

is what feels good to you.

Our kids today are taught that sexual perversion

is nothing but an alternate lifestyle,

Homosexuality is not a sin--

Why I can almost see Satan smile.

Our children are exposed

to so many of Satan's snares,

Yet, in school they are not allowed to

bow their heads in prayer.

The Ten Commandments have been taken

out of our schools by law.

Because the government tries to tell us

they are not meant for all!

The results of these perversions are

becoming clearer each day--

Kids can kill each other

but it's wrong for them to pray.

Indoctrination Of Our Young People

I’m queer and I’m Trump’s worst enemy

All you have to do to see the indoctrination of our children is to take a look at college campuses to see how liberal professors are teaching that “all the ills of today's society are the result of white,

conservative Christians and that white supremacy is running rampant in this country. If this country could purge itself of these evil hate-filled people, we could live in a land filled with lollipops and rainbows.”

This hate filled rhetoric is not limited to our college campuses any longer. It has now filtered down to our high school students. In October of last year, students at a high school in Utah thought they were attending a slam poetry workshop on tolerance and acceptance. What they found, however, was political rhetoric, LGBT propaganda and something called identity mapping.

One of the presenters announced to the class, “I'm queer and I'm Trump's worst enemy. Another presenter directed the students to group themselves according to their sexual identity, sexual preference and religious preference.

Needless to say, parents were outraged and the superintendent was forced to send a letter of apology to the parents.”I would not expect an exercise in which individual students were asked to reveal their sexual orientation and gender identity to be a part of the English curriculum.” he stated. He told the Todd Starnes show that the presentations were made to the entire student body during English class by poets connected to MOAB Pride, a local LGBTQ organization.

I'm sorry but when the presentation was presented by a local LGBTQ group shouldn't the faculty and administrators have a clue what it entailed?. To me this amounts to indoctrination of our children and should not be allowed in schools. A school should be enforcing anti bullying programs and not exposing the student body to group bullying by an organization that should not be allowed to be in the school in the first place. When the students were directed to divide into groups based on sexual orientation, sexual identity, religious or political views this opened the door to bullying. Bullying that was brought into the school through the front door of the school.

Our country is on a downhill slide when God is kicked out but liberal indoctrination of our most valuable and vulnerable citizens is welcomed with open arms.

As always you are free to disagree with me but I have the right to express my opinion. May God bless you all. Just saying.

In Times Like These

I    Last week I posted about a demonic clad drag queen reading to small children in Michelle Obama’s library in Long Beach. I would like to tell this was an isolated event. I would like to tell you that but I can’t.
     A drag queen calling itself “Little Hot Miss”, I call it “Big Bad Mess” read to small children at a library in Brooklyn, New York. She asked the small children, “Who wants to be a drag queen whey they grow up?’ and sang a song to the tune of “The Wheels On the Bus.” “The hips on a drag queen go swish swish swish.. This was not done without the parents’ knowledge. Several parents were in attendance and many praised the program calling the Drag Queen Story Hour (DQSH) important in explaining gender fluidity and the LBQT (whatever the initials are) to their children. These are young kids that should not even be exposed to this lifestyle much less having it explained to them.
     This program was started last fall and is now being held in several cities around the world including New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.  According to the DQSH, the purpose of the program is to “capture the imagination and play of the gender fluidity of childhood and gives kids glamorous, positive and unabashedly queer role models. People, these groups are targetingt our kids.
     This is not limited to public libraries. Khan Academy, a leading online educational video producer is worming this agenda into its online videos. In a lesson on plurality of nouns, a sentence is given with the instruction to select the correct plural: Marie and Sophie go out to breakfast with their              . The only choices are wifes or wives. It is up to us as Christian parents and grandparents to be aware of what our children are taught and exposed to.
     We read in God’s word in Revelation 12:12 “Woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short.” We are living in the last days now. The devil is loosed and running amok trying to steal souls because he knows that God is returning.
     Too many people are too caught up in being politically correct that they are pushing God aside. Even many churches today are more concerned with being seen as tolerant and politically correct that the preachers are not preaching God’s word.  They are preaching “lite” and not the word of God. Friends, my Bible has not changed since it was written and God has not changed. What He called sin is still sin and what He ordained as good is still good.
     I do not profess to be a theologian but I do profess to be a Christian who is concerned about this world and its inhabitants. I urge you to read and study God’s words for yourself and heed his warnings to us all.
     As always you are free to disagree but I am free to express my opinion. May God bless you all. Just saying.   

Demonic Teaching In School?

I could not decide what to write today so as I was skimming my news feed and archived articles, my eye landed on this:

Satanic Drag Queen Reads to Little Kids at Michelle Obama's Public Library in Long Beach

I could not believe my eyes so I read the article. The first picture I saw was the smiling faces of Barack and Michelle Obama standing behind the demonic drag queen. I literally became sick to my stomach as I read more.

The event was hosted by the Long Beach Public Library and was a collaboration between the LBPL (whatever that is), the LGBTQ Center of Long Beach, the Genders and Sexualities Alliance Network, and the LGBTQ nonprofit Imperial Court of Long Beach, according to the Long Beach Public Library's calendar. The event also got the approval of the Church of Satan.

The drag queen goes by the name Xochi Mochi and has his own YouTube channel. He also posted on his Instagram:

“I got to read to the children today and it was one of the best experiences I have been given as a drag queen. It's so important to have representation and normalize all the letter in LGBTQIA+ in everyday lives.”

Notice the name of the drag queen Mo chi and the demon of child sacrifice Moloch, the demon of child sacrifice. Am I too far reaching to notice the similarity here? Even if a similarity is not meant, are we not sacrificing our children on the altars of Satan.

This is disturbing on so many levels. In a time in our society when Christians are being discriminated against, are told we must compromise our faith to fit the agenda of the left, and are being called an “extremist hate group for believing the Bible, our children are subjected to this unholy alliance with Satan. Christians are open to persecution, hatred and even death in some countries of the world but this abomination is being hailed as courageous and good.

I would like to leave with a question. Would a Christian be given the same opportunity to read to the children?

As always you are free to disagree but I am still free to express my opinion. May God bless you all. Just saying.

Stop the Bullying

Bullying is painful and can be fatal. I had a personal experience with a child I know and love being bullied last school year and it hurt more people than the bullied child. Sometimes bullies think they need to bully to feel better themselves or to impress someone. But friends, bullying is never OK. Stop for a minute and think how you would feel if you were the one bullied. If more people followed the Golden Rule how much better this world would be. THINK ABOUT IT.

Special request to all you kids returning to school in August : If you see someone who is struggling to make friends or being bullied because he/she doesn't have many friends or because they are shy or not as pretty or not dressed in the most "in" clothes -- PLEASE step up. Say hi or at least smile at them in the hallway. You never know what that person might be facing outside of school. Your kindness might just make a BIG difference in someone's life! PARENTS and GRANDPARENT'S SHOULD RE-POST THIS

School Shopping Blues

This time of year is bittersweet for me.  Watching frazzled mothers taking their children school shopping brings back memories of shopping for my own children.

The excitement of buying new clothes and attempting to negotiate with the children to get items that are within budget but still pass the peer inspection can cause major meltdowns for parents and children alike.

I remember the scenes with my two children—especially my daughter.  When she reached her teen years, shopping became a nightmare for both of us.  “But Mom, you just don’t understand.  Nobody wears this style or brand anymore!”  These words echo through my mind when I see moms and kids going through what must be the universal conflict parents and children everywhere have this time of year.

The other day at a local department store I observed a very interesting exchange between a pre-teen girl and her mother.  The girl was trying to convince her mother to buy a very expensive pair of shoes.  The mother was clearly torn between staying within the budget and pleasing her daughter.  Just when I thought she was about to cave in to her daughter’s pleadings, the daughter’s attention was diverted to a more sensible and less expensive pair.  A smile crossed both their faces and peace was restored again.  As they paid for their purchase and walked out of the store arm in arm, I smiled and thought of the many times I had gone through the same situation with my own daughter. 

My mind was suddenly jolted back to the present when I heard a familiar voice, “Nanny, why can’t I have these shoes?”  I turned my attention back to my own 12 year old granddaughter and the only shoes in the entire store that would make her totally happy with life and me.

You see, although my own children are now grown, I have 4 grandchildren to take care of and 3 are at the pre-teen and teen years.  Although years have passed since my children were in school, school shopping is still a yearly ritual for me.  This ritual has changed very little over the years.

No matter how many tempers flare and disagreements arise, all is forgiven on that all important first day of school when the the most beautiful and intelligent children in the world step on the bus to embark on a fresh new adventure.

Never Give Up the Fight

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.Galatians 6:9

"I give up! I can't do this! It's too hard!" Nick slammed his math book shut. I stopped washing dishes and sat down beside him. After helping him for about 20 minutes he hugged me. "Now I understand and it is not as hard as I thought." He gathered up his books and prepared for school the next morning. I sent him to the shower before he went to bed.

After his shower and he had gone to bed, I sat down to relax a bit before I finished my nightly routine. I began to think about Nick and his homework. I realized that I too, want to give up and quit when success seems out of reach. Sometimes when I work on a goal and run into a brick wall I want to throw up my hands in despair. That is when I cry out to God, "Lord, this is too hard! I can't do it. You are asking too much from me." I often feel defeated before I start because I try to work in my own strength. Just when I feel overwhelmed with my endeavors, God speaks to my heart, "Child, I am here for you-- don't forget that you do not have to go alone in your own strength. I called you for a special purpose and I will go before you and equip you with all you need. Don't give up. You helped Nick with his homework and he knew you were there for him. I want you to know that I am here for you."

I would like to say that all my doubts were wiped away but I can't. Doubts still come and I still get overwhelmed at times. I would like to say that I never want to give up and reach every goal I attempt without fear. Again I can't say that. I still have doubts about my ability but when these doubts do rear their ugly heads, I remember I don't have to face them alone. I have a loving and caring Father who will always be with me to help me keep on keeping on.

When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you, till it seems as though you could not hang on one minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and time that the tides will change, Harriet Beecher Stowe

Don't Quit

Don't Quit no matter what!

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,

When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,

When funds are low and the debts are high,

And you want to smile but you have to sigh,

When care is pressing you down a bit,

Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns

As every one of us sometimes learns,

And many a failure turns about,

When he might have won if he'd stuck it out.

Don't give up, though the pace seems slow -

You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than

It seems to a faint and faltering man;

Often the struggler has given up

When he might have captured the victor's cup,

And he learned too late,

when the night slipped down

, How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out -

The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,

And you never can tell how close you are -

It may be near when it seems afar;

So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit -

It's when things seem worst that you mustn't quit. -

by Author Unknown

Yes, Virginia There Is A Santa Claus

Dear Editor

I am 8 years old.  Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.  Papa says, “If you read it in The Sun it’s so.”  Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?

This appeared in the New York Sun, 1897.

The primary model for Santa Claus is thought to be St. Nicholas of Myra, a fourth century bishop in Turkey.  He gained a reputation of be4nevolence by giving gifts to children.  He gave these gifts to poor children whose parents could not afford to give gifts.  He would throw the gifts through the window of homes where the children lived.  One particular legend has been told about his wonderful acts of giving to the less fortunate.  There were three poor girls.  Their parents were so impoverished they could not pay for the girls’ weddings and help them set up their own households.  St Nicholas wanted to help but wanted to remain anonymous.  Each night he would climb to the roof and throw coins in the stockings that were hung by the chimney to dry.  On the third night the father determined to find out the identity of their benefactor.  He caught St. Nicholas as he was throwing the coins down the chimney.  He asked the father to keep his secret but the father was so overcome he could not keep from telling everyone.

Although the original  idea of Santa Claus began with a real man, different cultures have added their own ideas of this gift-giving legend.  Scandinavians brought the idea of gift-giving elves.  Germans brought the idea of decorated trees and Christ Kindlein.*

Throughout history the idea of a gift-giving jolly fat man with elves and reindeer has evolved into what we see today as the likeness of Santa Claus.

My answer to Virginia is –Yes, Virginia there is a Santa Claus but he does not look like the man we see depicted in commercials today.  The true spirit of Santa Claus is St. Nicholas, a bishop from Turkey who became known for his love of children and benevolent nature.

*From Traditions of Christmas by Linda J. Bean.  Faith point Press.  2008

 

 

 

 

Modern Miracle

 
Miracles can and do still happen. In fact, they happen every day. Unfortunately we are often too busy living our lives in the hectic pace that is so common today, we often miss the miracles that are all around us. I can recall one special miracle that happened to my family on Halloween in 2004.

That Saturday began like every other day for my family—frantic rushing to get somewhere. Today my two older girls had soccer games and as usual we are running late. In the chaos of finding soccer gear and loading up the car a quarrel broke out with the two. “I'm riding in the front seat!” “No I am!” This argument went on for what seemed like hours. Finally, I had enough of this nonsense so I ordered both to get in the back seat so we could leave.

When they finally realized I meant what I said but still mouthing insults to each other, they got in the car. When I heard the last door slam, I heard a frightening scream from the younger boy. I looked back to see what was wrong and my blood ran cold with horror. His hand was stuck in the closed door. I jumped out and tried to open the door but it would not open! My husband came out of the house to see what all the screaming and crying was. He frantically tried to open the door but it was stuck.

“Call 911!' I was still attempting to pry open the door. Just as Mom ran to the house to make the phone call, the EMTs pulled into the driveway. “We were passing your house when we noticed the frantic activity.” one of the men shouted as he came running to the car. I hurriedly explained what had happened. He then began shouting orders while he tried to open the door. Still the door would not budge and the child's hand would not come out.

Now the flurry of activity became even more hectic while the kids were crying and I was praying that God would keep His hand over Christian's hand to minimize the damage to his hand. The EMTs were just as panicked as the rest of us when one turned to me and asked permission to break the car windows in order to use the jaws of life to open the door. “Do what you have to do,” I tearfully replied. With all the prayers that went up today, God surely was listening. The medics tried the door again and it opened up.

Now by this time we had drawn quite a crowd and cheers went up that surely must have reached heaven. I turned around and saw the ambulance waiting in the driveway. While Christian's hand was packed in ice and he was loaded into the ambulance, my daughter grabbed her stomach and moaned. Yes, the mother of this precious child was eight months pregnant. She was rushed into the ambulance with Christian and both of them were rushed off to the hospital—he went for treatment and she went for a checkup to assure her safety and the precious baby she was going to have in a month.

Mom and I followed in my car and rushed into the emergency room. Christian was calm and quiet as the doctors checked out his hand. I imagined every bone and muscle destroyed and when his hand was uncovered there did not appear to be any damage at all. The nurses got him ready to have X-rays and Mom was holding his other hand. I reluctantly left and went to the OB-GYN department to see how my daughter was doing. After she was thoroughly checked out and her health and the health of the baby were confirmed, I went back to the ER to see about Christian. When I returned I heard laughing and cheering from the staff. “What is the prognosis?” I asked utterly confused by the cheerful atmosphere in the exam room. I then saw Christian and his hand was completely normal—even the swelling had gone. One nurse looked at me as she hugged Christian and he smiled through his tears. There was no damage at all to his hand. The ER doctor told us in his “professional” voice that we had all over reacted and had given in to hysteria. One paramedic was still there and was waiting until we found out everything was fine told the doctor “That kid's hand was in that door for 45 minutes before the door would open. I guess if the family over reacted we “professionals” did too. This experience has taught me that miracles do happen because I just witnessed one.”

Yes, a miracle had just happened to us. No one can convince me that God does not perform miracles today. My grandson had an angel holding his hand over that child's hand. No one can convince me He was not protected by my heavenly Father and His angels.
Christian is now twelve years old and has not had any problems with his hand. There is no evidence at all that he suffered a traumatic injury of any kind.

So friends, yes there is a heavenly Father who watches over His children and protects us from dangers that befall us. I will never forget the day that God sent His angels to protect a three year old. Today Christian remembers that day he experienced God's unconditional love for him. His faith and mine were made stronger that day. If you ask him what happened that day he will tell you that God came down and held his hand in His

Of Feathers and Friends by Darlene Haggard Davis

"Nobody loves me everybody hates me. I'm gonna eat worms." Tyler is a child of divorce and sent to live with his grandmother. He is confused, angry, and hurt. He is trying to figure out where he fits in and decides to run away. He wants to show his family that he doesn't need anyone anymore. As Tyler goes about on his adventure, he meets other kids that help him find his place in the scheme of things. As he goes about experiencing life with his new friends, he discovers how valuable friends and family can be. Although this book is written for young readers, adults can glean some treasures from the pages. Readers can find the messages about friends and family to be universal. I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I give the book 5 stars and will recommend this book.

Social Events

Well friends, last night was a very busy but exciting one for me.  At 6:00 I attended a very exclusive concert.  Attendance was invitation only and the music was top quality.  It didn’t hurt that I know one of the talent Saxophone players on a first name basis.  After an hour of wonderful music I went to a play premiere where I also know one of the stars on a first name basis.  Both events were wonderful experiences that I would not have missed for anything.  OK you caught me—these were school events.  This makes them all the more enjoyable because I watched my own grandkids perform.

Update

I am sorry I have not been posting regularly.  I have been going through a very rough time.  I am standing in the crosshairs of  some vindictive people who love nothing more than spreading lies and untruths about me.  I am  now in danger of losing the grandkids I have had for their entire lives based on these lies.  I have been working and praying in order to keep these kids.  To the other parties involved, the kids are only collateral damage in this vendetta.  There have been so many trials and obstacles placed in my way I am getting physically and emotionally exhausted.  I do covet any prayers you can offer up on these children’s behalf.  If I do lose these kids, I feel like I will be throwing them to the wolves.  None of these kids want to be taken out of my home.  I am raising them to know and trust God.  They are all at a very impressionable age (9-12).  I pray that God gives the lawyers and judges involved the wisdom to really see what is in the best interest of these children. 

I do promise I will post more in the future—bear with me until then.  I know my God is bigger than this problem and He is the one holding me up through all of this. 

Where Is That Empty Nest?

Every little girl has a dream.  She dreams of falling in love, getting married, and having a family. I was no different.  I wanted to find my Mr.. Right, marry him and have two perfect children:  a boy that would hunt, fish, play baseball and do all the manly things with his dad; and a little girl that would let me teach her how to do all the feminine little things that girls like to do.  Well, I had a little boy and a little girl and my life was perfect. 

When the kids grew up, a new dream began to unfold.  I was looking forward to be a grandmother.  I would be the type that would spoil the grandkids because they would only be visiting.  Well, I did enjoy the kids and did spoil them BUT I was given custody of them and now I am responsible for their daily needs and all their wants.  This can’t be too bad, I thought.  I will just be raising kids all over again.  In fact, it was fun having the grandkids around all day everyday.  I did not stop to think that they would grow up and I would grow older.  That is the life cycle isn’t it.  Kids grow up and grandparents grow older.  Although, I am not as young as I used to be, I still manage to provide for these precious little ones.  I have four active kids that are now in school and I get to attend all their functions.  I have been able to attend all of the social events of the seasons from ballet recitals to championship baseball games.  In fact, I am on a first name basis with the superstars and coaches.  What could be better than this?  I do admit I get tired but when I look at the bright expectant faces I gain a new sense of strength and love every minute of sharing life with these gifts from God.

When I hear people talking of the empty nest syndrome and how lonely they are, I realize that I still have the sound of kids’ laughter and fighting in my house.  My house doesn’t always stay clean and I do get frustrated trying to keep up with the housework.  When I feel overwhelmed by the lack of time to get all the housework done, I realize there are more important things than a shiny house.  My house does stay clean enough for health but has that comfortable lived in look and feel.  In fact, my house is well lived in.  I do keep my floors clean enough you can eat off them.  Yeah, over here is some bread, there is a french fry or two and if you look closely you might even be able to find a cookie or two for dessert.

I always thought that when my kids were grown and had kids of their own, my husband and I would be able to retire, spend time getting to know each other again and travel whenever and wherever we wanted to.  I guess that will have have to wait because God has given me a task that is more important than any other I can think of.  Sure, I could be working and obtaining new possessions but what could would material possessions give me when I have the love of my grandkids.  Of course, they don’t get everything they want but God is good and lets me provide everything they need.

No matter how tired and discouraged I get I realize the blessings God has given me when He put these kids in my life.  I always ask Him for strength and grace to make it through the day and He is always faithful to provide what I need.  I do not get paid for caring for these children in earthly ways but my reward is much more valuable because I am paid in pure love.

I hope I leave these kids with a legacy of love.  I want them to know that I loved them but, even more importantly, I want them to know God loves them.  I want to teach them about Him and His love.  They should be taught that with Him by their side and holding their hands, they will be able to accomplish anything and do whatever He asks of them.  I can provide the material things they need but I want them to know that God can provide for them even more than I can. 

While other people are suffering from the empty nest syndrome, I consider myself fortunate that I still have children in my life.  I just ask God to give me the wisdom and strength to bring them up in the way He wants me to.  I know He will because He said He would and my God keeps all of His promises.

I’m Growing Down

I’m Growing Down

Recently my granddaughter completed kindergarten. Although she should have been happy and excited about entering first grade in the fall, she went around the house with a very sad look on her face. Instead of celebrating the end of the school with her friends she proclaimed, “I want to stay in kindergarten!” Needless to say this took me by surprise but Tori refused to explain to me what she meant by that statement.

One night after reading a story together and saying our prayers I again brought up the subject of her going into first grade. Aren’t you excited about going into first grade in the fall?” “No, nanny, I’m not. I want to stay in kindergarten for the rest of my life.” Now this was not exactly what I expected to hear. My son and daughter were glad to be “one of the big kids” so they could be one of the “old” timers at school—the envy of the little kids in kindergarten.

After recovering from the shock of Tori’s remarks I attempted to explain to her that we all “graduate” from one stage in life to another. I went to tell her how each stage is built upon the last stage to help us grow. Imagine my shock when she looked at me with tears running down her face and said, “Nanny, I know that but growing up is so scary.” I hugged her to me and brushed the tears from her eyes and sighed. She was right—growing up is scary—and I was at a total loss for words of comfort until I had an idea (a brilliant idea for me, I thought).

“Listen, Honey,” I gently began. “I know growing up is hard but I am growing older too and it is scary for me. Wow! This is brilliant, I thought to myself. So I continued, “You know growing up can be fun. Just think, Sweetheart, you are going to learn how to do so many new things, meet new friends and have so much fun. But I’m growing older and won’t be able to do as many things as I once did. That is what makes growing older scary for me.”

After I had finished explaining this to her, I congratulated myself on my wonderful wisdom. I sat back, kissed her cheek gently, and asked her if she understood what I was saying. With solemn eyes she replied, “Yeah, I think so.” Then her eyes widened with understanding and a smile crossed her face. “I understand now Nanny,” she exclaimed with a leap into my arms. “I’m growing up and you’re growing down. Wow! Out of the mouth of babes! I had not thought of it quite that way but she was absolutely right. I used to be able to mow my yard, clean my house completely and still p0ractice baseball with the kids. Now if I can make sure the house is clean enough not to condemned by the health officials I congratulate myself on making it through another week.

This sobering conversation with Tori caused me to reflect on my life. I was reminded of the challenges I have faced in my life. Some of these challenges left me feeling overwhelmed and confused about the meaning of my life. I never doubted God’s love for me but I did have doubts about my ability. I realized that these challenges made me stronger and wiser. I would not be the person I am today without these experiences. I realized that God has not let me down but instead had held me up during these trying times.

I might be “growing down” in the physical realm, but I know that God is “growing me up” with His love and grace. He is always with me each day to give me the wisdom and strength I need to fulfill His purpose in my life.

As I thought back on my life span, I began to realize that we should not just grow “down” in age but we should always strive to grow up also. To grow up in the Lord is something we should all do whether we are young or old. I hope that I am able to help Tori grow in her relationship with God and always look to Him for her strength.

Yes, Tori, growing up can be scary but with God holding our hands, there is nothing we cannot do. I want you remember that God will grow us to be the people He intends for us to be if we only believe that everything is possible with Him and He promises us a life that is eternal and abundant.

I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.

Philippians 4:13

Then we will no longer be infants tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect, the mature body of Him who is the that is Christ.

Ephesians 4:15, 16

But grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

2 Peter 3:18

Today’s Whisper: Journal about ways you can mature in the Lord.  What does maturing in the Lord mean to you:? Does maturing in the Lord automatically come with age or does it take effort on our part:?

Today's Prayer: Father, help me to grow in wisdom and knowledge of you. Hold my hands and help me as I go through each day. I depend on you and your word. I know that you love me and are always there for me. Help Tori as she grows up to always follow you so she can always know you are there for her in the stages of growing—both physically and spiritually.

*Since writing this, the little girl in the story is now entering college and I have seen three others children through kindergarten.  Through it all they continue to grow up and I continue to grow down.  But I do know that God will help them to grow up and me to grow up in Him.

Kids Today

Our children today can read of evolution

And are taught we come from apes.

They can learn of hate and prejudice

And are encouraged to murder and rape.

Family life is becoming obsolete

In this great country today.

Why it’s just ‘not cool’

To kneel with your family and pray.

Alcohol, drugs, and sex

Are the ‘in things’ to do.

The only thing that really matters

Is what feels good to you.

Our children today are taught that sexual perversion

Is nothing but an alternate lifestyle,

Homosexuality is not a sin--

Why I can almost see Satan smile.

Our children are exposed

To so many of Satan’s snares.

Yet in school they are not allowed to

Bow their heads in prayer.

The Ten Commandments have been taken

Out of our schools by law,

Because the government tries to tell us

They are not meant for all.

The results of this perversion is

Becoming clearer each day--

Kids can kill each other

But it’s wrong for them to pray.

 

I wrote this years ago, but it is becoming more true today.  We all need to turn to God and let Him take His rightful place in our hearts, our homes and our country.