From Underneath

If a person stares upwards in a cloudless night and the lights of the city do not impede, even satellites can be spotted racing across the night blackened sky. Abundance of stars are spotted in the vast milky way, and the brightness of the full moon gives so much light that one can see to walk around without stumbling. Then, out of no where, a small cloud appears, then another, and still another. Condensation is taking place before one's eyes, and the gathering of storm clouds becomes the demonstration above. Cover is necessary, and the light driven display from underneath becomes a bygone drama that has been replaced by a storm. The stage has been the sky, and the theater seats have been beneath the heavens.

The view one has of things is often determined by his or her position. Many star lit nights and storm gatherings are not even noticed at all. There must be an awareness toward them or else they go on without any observance. Sunsets are also among the displays missed, and without someone drawing attention to the multicolor artwork, the horizon goes unnoticed and the simplest treasure is forsaken.

Quite possibly life itself has become a blur for many so that star lit nights and brilliant sunsets have become a passing phase. Perhaps it's time to look up again, balance again, enjoy again, lest that which is above those who are living underneath become that which was and never shall be again.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Retribution

“I'll get even with you if it's the last thing I do!” “He's gonna pay for this!” “She better watch out from here on out, because I will be waiting around the corner!” “Just when he thinks he is safe I will be on him like nobodies business!” Has the reader ever heard or said these words? Has the reader ever felt this kind of passion? Has the reader ever wanted this type of revenge? To some degree the writer imagines that most people will answer “yes” to those questions. When someone is harmed, the intensity of retribution is increased, and sometimes that retribution drive controls their lives.

When a person is maligned, taken advantage of, injured or harmed, the natural reaction is to retaliate and get revenge. Sometimes people do not desire to just get even, but they want to get more than even. Their cause is worth retribution, and the perpetrators must pay! Right? But what if they don't? What if the wrongdoer just gets away with it, off scott free, and without any penalty at all? What if they just injure and leave and go on to live their lives as though nothing every happened? How does one react to that? Is there no justice? Is there no one who will make it right? Is there no evening of the score?

One person put it this way, “What goes around, comes around.” Another said, “Whatsoever a man sows, that shall he also reap.” Still another said, “There is a law of reciprocity, and those who do wrongly will be wronged themselves.” In other words, somewhere, somehow, without ever knowing when or where, that which the wrongdoer has done will be returned. The key is to not be the one who has done the wrongdoing, and allow the retribution that comes be for doing that which is good and not that which is evil to others.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Perfect Expectations

A mother is seen correcting her child. “Honey, don't stack that. Don't touch this. Do it this way not that. Put it over there. Do not go in there. If you ever try that again, I will spank you. Put your hands down., etc., etc., etc.”, and so goes the ongoing task of trying to make a child behave. But are there times where it goes too far? Are there times when the expectations are perfection? Does the perfection expected really thwart the insides of the child so that he or she is much less than perfection managing life itself?

There once was a man who took a psychological test to determine the type of personality that he was. After answering the questions and turning in his paper there was an evaluation made. The result? He was a perfectionist. Now, when the psychologist revealed the outcome of the evaluation, the man protested, “I am not a perfectionist. I do lots of things that I do not care if they are done perfectly or not.” To which the psychologist replied, “Right, you are not a perfectionist yourself, but you demand perfection from everyone around you.” The psychologist was right, and the man slinked away.

Sometimes people need a break. Sometimes the standards must be high, but there also must be a relief valve that recognizes humanness. If there is no room for a child to make an error, the result will be either a rebellious or an extremely prideful adult who brings more imperfection into a world that is filled with erroneous personalities.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Two Down the Railroad

A group of boys were attempting to tightrope walk the rails of a railroad track. One by one after each one tried he would fall off. Finally one of the boys who had not attempted the feat yet boasted, “I'll bet you a candy bar that I can walk over a quarter mile down that track.” Another boy from the group boasted the same words too. The remainder of the boys angrily said, “what makes you two think that you are any better than us. You're on. We bet you a candy bar you cannot do it.” With that, the two boys entered the track together, wrapped their arms around one another and easily walked down the slippery rails.

Some situations are like rails of a railroad track. They are slippery and easy to make one fall. They require super effort, and not very many make it alone. In fact, these circumstances required that someone else give aid, someone else care, and someone else wrap arm within arm to reach the anticipated goal.

Maybe the next time the challenges come or the feats seem too much, the best solution would be to find a friend or two or more to help make it down the rails.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Gathering of the Destitiute

There once was a would be king who was being chased by the standing king. Because of the threat of this prominent young aspirer, the standing king put a bounty on his head. The young man ran and hid in a cage, and those who heard about him being there gathered around him too. The trouble was these who gathered were in debt, they were in distress, they were discontent, but they were also without a true leader. When the young man looked about him, he knew through this motley crew, he would be protected from the purposed king, and he was.

Today many who are in distress, many who are in debt, many who are discontent will gather once again in "caves" of sort to rely upon another would be king. The difficulty here is that this would be king has also been rejected by many other kings, and although it may appear that he is far away, he shall reign in the kingdom someday whether the kings that reign now like it or not.

Simply put, why not to church today?

Until tomorrow... Why Say More?

Today They'll Wear New Shoes

Samaritan's feet was the vision of Emmanuel Ohome who was given shoes by someone from Wisconsin over 28 years ago. The exert from their webpage www.samaritansfeet.org states it like this:

“The vision for Samaritan’s Feet was conceived over 28 years ago on one hot summer afternoon at a camp in Lagos, Nigeria when a stranger from Wisconsin befriended a young African boy. The young boy, like so many other children in Africa and around the world, had never known the comfort and security of owning a pair of tennis shoes. This “Good Samaritan” gave a life-changing gift and a message of hope to that 9-year old boy. He gave him his first pair of shoes.With that new pair of shoes for inspiration, Emmanuel Ohonme went on to compete in sports activities in Africa. Specifically, he developed a love as well as superior talent for competitive basketball.”

Today in Tallahassee at the MRZ CENTRE volunteers just like the person from Wisconsin will be providing shoes for children in our city. Children whose parents or grandparents are struggling to make ends meet will make a line down the street, wait for their time, receive groceries and clothing, and be able to have their feet washed and receive a new pair of tennis shoes just the way it was for “Manny.” Today, like Manny, children will know that someone in the world cares for them, and today they'll wear new shoes.

Until tomorrow...Why Say more?

Shoes on Their Feet

It begins tomorrow morning at nine. They will wait in long lines for the opening of the doors. For some, it will seem like Christmas. For others, it will be a great relief. Many will smile, and others will be so happy that their feet are finally covered again. What is it? Simple. It will be the volunteering of many helpers who will give away brand new tennis shoes to children who are in need. At MRZ CENTRE in downtown Tallahassee, a Samaritan's feet project will find many volunteers washing the feet of children of all ages and providing shoes that have been donated and given away. There will be shoes on their feet and understanding in their hearts that someone really cares for them in this world.

How does one help? How does a person get involved? Well, moving five hundred pairs of shoes takes a little help to put in place. Water for trays and hands to wash feet takes some effort. Since groceries and clothes are being provided as well, there is always a need for someone to be involved with clothing items. Of course there are the tables that are set up for the food, and the coffee, water, drink and snack section will be plenty busy tomorrow. Oh, there's more than enough activities to keep lots of people involved, and the great part is that most volunteers are finished by ten o clock or so.

In the mean time, thoughts and prayers for the event are welcomed as well. Neighbors being neighbors in a world where there is more bad news than any generation should have to bear will be the theme, and those who walk out of MRZ CENTRE with shoes on their feet will have a small reminder that someone really does care.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Forever Words

It is said that sound waves carry and never end. No matter what the sound is, the echo of it goes on and on into outer space and never, ever stops. Now, should that be true, if one thinks about it, what sounds have been made with words that continue today? Every sentence, every declaration, every spoken word continues to make that same sound somewhere out in space and the noise that it made when it was spoken continues even today. To say it differently, the words spoken are “forever words.”

What did that mother say to that son? What did that father say to that daughter? What did that husband say to his wife, or what did that wife say to her husband? Consider this: What did that boss say to that employee, or what did that employee say to that boss? Think about this one: What did that brother say to that sister, or what did that sister say to that brother? I suppose when one thinks about it as one fellow said long ago, “I think I am just going to stop talking.”

Hopefully other words and the sounds of them continue too like: “I love you”; “You are the most wonderful person I have ever met”; “The world is so much better while you are in it”; and so on. Perhaps the key for this thought is to be sure that the “Forever Words” that are spoken are those which encourage, inspire and stimulate rather than put down, humiliate or offend, but then again, how ever would there ever be any newscasts if that were to take place?

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Edit

Edit. Do-over. Mulligan. Try Again. What do these imply? An error, a lesser attempt, a miss-shot, another need to fulfill. In other words, a human was attempting some feat, some effort or some accomplishment and didn't quite make the mark desired. Sometimes it has to do with typing, and other times it has to do with golf. Sometimes it has to do with relationships, and other times it is as simple as trying to make a basket. Whatever, whenever, and however the venture was undertaken, sometimes there is nothing like an edit to try it all over again.

Errors are common, and mistakes occur every day. For some things there are no edits, and that which is done is final, however for other things there are second, third, fourth or more re-attempts that may be made. Some things cannot be changed, and other things cannot. The key is to know the difference between the two, and then change the things that can be, and accept the things that cannot.

This prayer helps: “God help me to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference,” and if it is followed, editing will not only be a welcomed trait but also a followed one.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

What's Already Did

A young teenage boy sat beside his father while going to work one morning. The shiny new Cadillac Eldorado smelled of leather and newness, and the young man was ready for the ride. The father started the car, turned the wheel to the left and began to back the car out of the drive. There was only one problem. There was a huge pine tree just to the left of where the car was parked, and the car was in motion toward the tree. The young man yelled, “Dad!” but “Kablaam,” it was too late. With punishing force the right front fender of the new Cadillac struck the tree, and now there was a huge indentation in the front of the car. The boy sat open mouthed. The dad pulled the car forward, slammed the car in gear, and said, “Shoot!”, or something like that. The boy watched as the dad got out of the car, assessed the damage, and got back in to drive away. At this point, what was already done was already did, and there was no changing it no matter how much the dad could try.

There are some things that do not change just because people wish they would. Bad decisions relationally, wrong business decisions, poor choices when driving, misinformed directions, or even times when everything that was promised was surprisingly unfulfilled do not alter what has already occurred. Though people wish, pray, hope, desire, and beg for it to be different, sometimes the dent is already there, and what has been done is what's already did.

Maybe the continuation of story of the teenager and his father will help what's already did. The father took the car to a local body shop, shared the story with the proprietor, evaluated the damage, and arranged for the car to be repaired. A few days later, only those with very trained eyes could ever tell that the car had been wrecked, and the car was like new again. Perhaps when damage is done, and what's already did is already there, the key to being like new again is to go to the local expert,, share the story, assess the damage, and let him remove the wreckage so the damaged one can live to drive another day.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Too Much in Too Litlle Time

It weighs over eight pounds, and it is filled with fruit, nuts, syrups, and loads of different ice creams. The challenge is daunting, and why in the world one person would ever even want to try to eat the whole dessert is quite the mystery. However, there he sits, spoon in hand with a cheering crowd behind him. His goal? To eat the entire delicacy within a twenty-five or thirty minute time limit. Soon the announcer is in place, and the countdown begins. Three, two, one, Go! It's time to gorge. It's time to pig out! It's time to eat too much in too little time!

When do enjoyable things become too much in too little time? Are there relationships, partnerships, or commitments that have time limits on them? Are the amusement parks so full of activities that there is never enough time to experience it all? Are there vacations that seem to be so full and yet so short? What about the summer for those students who march back to school today to sit under the tutelage of strangers? Where did the summer time go? Is there an answer? Is there a key to stretching time when the capacity needs to be more?

Not that this writer knows about, and the only advice that seems best here is, when there is too little time to enjoy that which may seem too much, just enjoy every moment as it comes, for soon, there will be too much time, and very little opportunity to enjoy the desserts that lay before all who are wise enough to see them.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

What Lies Beneath

The container was rusty and smelled of rottenness. Its darkened surface suffered onslaughts from the briny waters within the ocean. Although the rugged chest was locked, soon those who had it would discover the contents inside. With precise skill the time worn lock was cut in two, the lid was lifted, and what lie beneath was revealed. Jewels, gold, and treasures filled the box to capacity. Although the outside box was not much to look upon, what lie beneath is where the real treasure was.

There's an old saying that shares, “You can't tell a book by its cover.” Another says, “You cannot tell what a person is like until you find out what is within them.” In other words, sometimes what is seen on the outside is not at all what is on the inside. Some people are very handsome and beautiful until they open their mouths and show their actions, and others are “physically beauty challenged” but are some of the most eloquent and beautiful people within. What lies beneath the outward appearance is where true beauty is found. What lies beneath is valuable, enduring, and of great worth.

Some fear that the outside is fading, and needs a lift, a polish or tuck or two, and although that might make some difference, a person who invests in what lies beneath will be a treasure for the rest of their days in which everyone will be able to find great worth.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Credit Card Rebellion of One

A man was thinking about his use of his credit card when he came up with an interesting idea. It seems that every time he uses his credit card, the credit card company makes money off the vendor from his purchase. Simply because he uses his credit or debit card, some company that is not even involved in the transaction other than use of their card makes money. How? The credit card company takes a percentage of the sale from the vendor, and sometimes it is as much as three or four percent. This man has begun a rebellion. This man has begun a “Credit Card Rebellion of One.”

For example, let's suppose this man makes a one hundred (100) dollar purchase from a vendor with his credit card. After the credit card company credits the vendor's account, the vendor only actually receives ninety seven (97) dollars if there is a three percent charge. That vendor essentially pays for the customer to use their card. Now, if cash is used, the credit card company gets NOTHING, and the vendor gets one hundred percent of their money. The vendor then has more money to purchase supplies, hire new workers, etc., but if the credit card company gets it, then the vendor has less money to use. Think about when there are billions spent every day using credit cards! The percentage value is outrageous! This should begin a revolt. This deserves a rebellion!

Not only do the credit card companies make money off the vendor, they then turn around and make exorbitant interest rates off the consumer for their use of the cards. “Rebel! Pay the cards off! REBEL, do not use the cards!” yells the man who has begun the rebellion. This revolt might be a “Horton hears a hoo” moment, but maybe this man's small voice will get some to think, and the money will stop going into the hands of credit card companies and into the hands of those who can turn the economy in the right direction. Maybe those who do not receive nor ever will receive a “Bail Out” will begin to see as this man does the value of making sure the right people get their money rather than those who call for “help us poor credit card companies out” when their money is gone.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

The Shut Shut Shut it Up List

Does anyone know anyone else who knows everything and yet does absolutely nothing except tell everybody about how they know everything? Has anyone ever been around the “know it all” who no matter what the subject is, they can tell the most about it as though they have been trained to the nth degree? Is there anyone out there who has been around the tone deaf person who sings to the top of his or her lungs and believes that the world should recognize them for their tremendous talent? Is there someone out there who believes that some of these people should be on “the list” as one friend used to call it, “The Shut, Shut, Shut it up List?” But of course, it could be, it might be that the writer is the only one who takes notice and asks the questions of these “notables”, “So, how should this apply?”

It is certain that there are many who “darken counsel by words without knowledge”, but many of them do not know it. Many just continue along sometimes for years before anyone says anything to them that might make them stop and think for just a moment. However, how does one go to another, especially if they are a singer or performer and say, “I'm sorry, but you cannot play or sing a lick!” Of course, there is “Simon” who has no problem with that, and then again, even “Simon” might need someone to give him the heads up that he is one of the most pompous individuals in the world!

Maybe there should be a “Shut, shut, shut it up list,” but then again, it is much easier to be the one who places others on that list than to be on it oneself. Maybe the mantra for the day should be, “Shh...there are others who do not want to hear how much you think you know or how good you think you can sing, or how great you are, or..................maybe the writer should be quiet now.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Governmental Third Duck

A young man went off to college to receive some education. After accepting his diploma, he returned home to visit with his family. His father was anxiously awaiting his arrival, and decided to go out and hunt two ducks for a special meal. The father's fortune was instantaneous, and he brought the ducks home for the boy's mother to cook them. The boy came home, greetings with hugs and kisses were shared, and the boy's mother invited everyone to sit at the table.

The boy believed himself to be much smarter than his parents at this point and while looking at the plate of meat before him explained to his father how there were three ducks on the platter. The father listened patiently but then answered, “No son, I only killed two.” The boy began to give more explanation. “You see,” he said, “The genetics from the one duck have crossed over unto the other, and when the miscegenation took place particles from the one duck interwove with the other duck and made three ducks from the compilation.” The mother said, “Son, I only cooked two ducks.” The boy began to make his point again, but the father interrupted his pontification and said, “Let's pray.” The father prayed saying, “Dear Lord, thank you for the bounty you have provided here today. We thank you for our son, and we ask you to bless our meal together. Amen” The father promptly forked up one duck and put it on the mother's plate, and he forked up the other duck and put it on his plate, and he said to his son, “Now son, you help yourself to that third duck.”

This story might remind some of the way government works. If a person can give enough explanation as to how there are more monies than appears, then there should be no problem feeding the masses of entitled folk who desire to dine. Maybe if there was the reality of that “third duck” for people to dine upon, some of the balderdash would disappear. But then again, isn't balderdash some type of seasoning?

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Ouch

Television shows sometimes leave impressions for years. One of those comedy television shows featured two guys who would banter back and forth while sharing things that were painful to them during the previous week. The first would say something like, “I took some barbed wire and ran it up one side of my nose, strung it through the other side of my nose and pulled it back and forth. I hate it when I do that.” Ouch! The other would respond, “Well, this week, I took a potato and held it up to my ear and hit it with a hammer. I hate it when I do that.” Ouch! The first guy would then tell of another of his feats during the past week. He'd say, “This week, I plugged in my toaster, stuck my hand inside, and dropped it into a sink full of water. I hate it when I do that.” Ouch! The bantering would continue for several minutes with each guy trying to tell the other of harmful things he had done to himself. Of course, these were all fictitious and were meant for grimaces and laughs, but nonetheless, they were things that made a viewer say, “Ouch!”

Pain, for most, is not pleasurable. Even though there are great benefits to pain such as letting a person know that something has gone wrong either physically or emotionally, there are not too many people who desire that pain comes into their lives. The response “Ouch” is very natural, and whenever pain occurs, most desire to eliminate the source of the pain. Because of pain there are now even pain management centers to help control the amount of pain. Hospital personnel ask “What is your pain level on a scale from one to ten?” And, of course, there are pain medications for just about everything under the sun these days. All of these are meant to alleviate and reduce something that is not pleasurable.

There is an additional benefit to “Ouch” times. Consider the pain that comes from making a mistake such as: a child touching a hot stove, cutting oneself with a knife that is turned the wrong way, choosing the wrong job or spouse, or being distracted while driving and having an accident, etc.? Sometimes the pain associated with these and other examples help a person choose better decisions in the future. Some of these times of “Ouch” leave scars that do not go away, and the reminders of that pain will help a person for the rest of their lives.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Upstaged

A young man reaches his goal of bench pressing two hundred pounds. After feeling rather proud of himself, another young man his same age and weight begins his workout with warmups of ten reps at two hundred pounds. The first boy has been upstaged.

A young girl finally gets the attention of a young man she has had her eye on for six months. He winks at her across the room and with fluttering feelings and happiness inside that she finally got his attention, she watches as the prettiest girl in school walks up to him, throws her arms around him and says, “Hi my love.” As the pretty girl walks away with him, the first girl notices she is wearing a necklace with his class ring on around her neck. The young girl has been upstaged.

Oh these two examples might not have never happened to the reader, and quite possibly there are different examples that could be employed. Most who read know when someone else did something just a little better, looked a little better or handled something a little better than they did. The feeling of being upstaged is not a very happy one. In fact, it often makes one sad, jealous or even angry.

However, consider this. One of the most hated traits by the one who matters most is a proud look. One of the benefits to being upstaged is that it produces humility, and when humility comes, the proud look disappears and so does the most hated thing.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Meany

A little girl was playing near the curb of a street when her mother called her to come back into the yard. The little girl turned, looked at her mother, and began to put her toe just over the curb edge toward the road. Immediately the mother responded with an authoritative yell, “Get back in this yard right now young lady!” To which the tiny tot responded, “No!” and proceeded toward the road. The mother took charge, marched toward the determined little girl, picked her up, and began to administer aid for obedience. Just as the mother was hauling the screaming child away from the dangerous roadway the angry faced little girl looked up at the mother through her tears and said, “You're a meany.”

Now for those who have had the privilege of taking care of children for any length of time at all, they know the inward pain and hurt that comes from being called a “meany”. However, for most of these, they also know that they would rather be in the category of “meany” than to have the results that occur when they do not restrict children, such as: bodily harm or even death. No, for those who look beyond the “meany” term, they know that there is a greater concern than whether they bear the title of “meany” or not.

But what about when it comes to one's country? What if there are tendencies and trends that are leading a country toward a dangerous road ahead? What if there are morality issues that are left unbridled, and dissembling in the route is being taken? What if the impending danger is left unheeded, and a huge accident is waiting? Is there no one who will be the “meany” and see beyond the political re-election process and call the child back?

Maybe this time around the question should be, “Will the real “meany” please stand up, and take the role of one who leads and guides no matter how much the child screams or calls them names?”

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Just Because

Promotions,Commercials, Holidays, Anniversaries, and Commemorations all seem to have something in common. They all insinuate that there should be some type of flowers, gifts, special trips or other prizes that celebrate them. People tend to be persuaded by specific times when there is an underlying insinuation that a he or she is insensitive, uncaring or worse - unloving if no acknowledgment is made. However, one of the most effective communications between two people who care for one another is when there is no other reason than just because.

Just because someone exists, just because they have been there before, just because they are loved, cared for and appreciated, there are times when expressions and affections have greater meaning when given “just because” than if all the advertising in the world were used to convince. The depth of care and appreciation seems to mean more when someone just out of the blue gives flowers, a specially loved food or drink, or a note to another. The surprise element is sometimes more effective than the gift itself.

With no expectation, no outward convincing, no outside stimulus, but rather a depth of care and love from within, one person can express to another how deeply they enjoy their company, and the reason is just because. Maybe if there were more “just because” moments throughout our land there would be less reasons for controversies and disputes, and more reasons just to be glad someone cares.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Another MRZ CENTER Outreach Story - Covered Toes

His clothes are disheveled, and his hair is unkempt. It's been a while since he's had the opportunity to bathe, but nonetheless he still continues on. Although it is a little embarrassing for him to come inside the MRZ CENTRE, he makes the effort anyway to walk through the lobby. He signs in, and as he does, one of the volunteer receptionist and welcome crew notices that his shoes have holes in the front of them. “Inside,” she tells him, “you can get another pair of shoes.” A smile grows over his face as the news of new shoes was what he was hoping for today.

He walks through the small hallway toward the garage and waits with the others in line to join the food line just ahead. He takes one grocery bag and makes his way through all the wonderful groceries that are available inside the open garage. But then, out of the corner of his eye, he sees the area in the back left of the large open room, and the shoes are there. He immediately ambles over to the area where he is greeted by Steve and Therrel who ask him how they can help him. He says, “I need me some new shoes.” To which Steve and Therrel answer, “well, we can help you. Sit right here.”

The man sits in a chair where Steve and Therrel have him remove his old shoes. They offer to wash his feet, and though he is embarrassed somewhat, he allows them to do so. They tell him of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples and how He said that the disciples were to follow His example of serving. Steve and Therrel offer the man new socks, and then find his new pair of shoes, and as soon as they are on, the man jumps up, says “Yay!” and thanks Steve and Therrel.

He takes his bag of groceries, picks through a few clothes, and walks happily out the door with his new shoes on, and says, “I now have covered toes!”.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

They

“They said this” and “They said that”. “In fact, the other day when I was standing over there, they were staring at me.” “Well, as far as I am concerned, I don't care what they think.” “They better not try that with me.” They, they, they, they, they.

Do any of these phrases sound familiar? The tiny little word “They” gets more attention than one person telling another person not to think about pink elephants. No matter how one tries not to, the pink elephant or “they” is in the mind.

Mothers use “they”. Fathers use “they”. Reporters use “they” frequently such as when “they” say, “They don't understand or they predict this or they still don't know what they are talking about.” The truth is that use of “they” is abundant.

Here's the drill. Try for one day to notice how many times the word “they” is said in your presence, and then notice how many times “they” is employed by oneself. It may be difficult to manage, but you know what “they” say, “they are only as good as they demonstrate they are.”

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Oh for Multiplicity

It happens every day. There is a need to be here at the same time that there is a need to be there. If he could be doing this at the same time as he was doing that, everything would be better. If she could handle this job and that job simultaneously, both factions would be happy. Of course, then there is the time when there is a need to be in three, four, and five places at the same time. What is needed is multiplicity, i.e. having the ability to split oneself into two or more parts so that each one could and would do everything that is required. In other words, there should be more of this busy person.

But then again, could it be, should it be that those who are requiring the attention of this individual should understand that it is only possible for a person to do so much with his or her life? Is there room for realization that this busy human being might just have a few other venues other than the one in which they demand his or her attention? But then again, there is the measure of importance now isn't there, and of course each delegation demands that theirs is the most important, right?

Selection. Choice. Decision. If one chooses this path, that path is slighted, and if one chooses that direction, this direction is offended. What ever is one to do? How ever is one to fulfill all the requests at the same time? Oh for multiplicity! Oh for multiples! Oh for...simplicity? Ah yes, there it is! The answer is simplify, simplify, simplify, and for the rest, ye shall have to wait in line.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Over and Over Again

A little girl watched the cars go round and round at the amusement park. The little pink one caught her attention the most, and she pulled on her mommy's leg and asked, “Can I ride it, Mommy? Can I?” “Of course you can, honey,” the mommy answered. “That's why we're here.” After waiting in a long line and watching for the little cars to stop, finally it was the little girl's turn. She climbed aboard the fancy painted pink car, and soon the ride began. She laughed and screamed. She smiled and made noises like a race car, and she steered the wheel on the car like she was driving herself. But soon, the car stopped, and the ride was over.

Now the little girl was upset, and she wanted to ride more. She said to her awaiting mommy, “I want to ride it again. I want to ride it over and over again.” The mommy smiled knowing that there would be another wait in the long line before it would be her daughter's turn again, so she pointed to the line and said, “Honey, if you want to ride it again, you will have to wait in that long line over there.” The little girl's face dropped and she said, “Why is it when I find something so fun I have to wait for it to happen over and over again?” The mommy chuckled and answered, “When I find the answer to that question, you will be the first to know.”

Amusement park rides, boat rides, visits to the beach, visits to the mountains, fishing trips, vacations, basically fill in the blank activities, all seem to last such a short time, and when they are enjoyable, people want to do them over an over again. Some activities just seem to have an insatiable element to them, so that one time is not enough. One wonders why there even has to be a gap between them such as work, school, doctor visits, etc. Maybe if a person could and would choose to allow each day he or she breathes to be like an amusement ride, the desire just to be alive will be the most desired activity to be enjoyed over and over again.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Just in the Nick of Time

A family was traveling down a major street when suddenly their car began to skid. Although the rain was slight, it was just enough to wet the roads and an attempt to stop and avoid the car in front of them was now a potential wreck. Just before the collision, the father of the family decided to try to move into the oncoming traffic lane and turn into a side street that was just to the left of them. He pulled the steering wheel and made the move. However, there was oncoming traffic and now a head on collision was a great possibility. Just in the nick of time the car ridden in by the family swerved to miss the car in front and the oncoming traffic too. Their car rolled easily into the side street just as they planned. The father wiped his brow, the family caught their breath, and everyone of them thanked the Almighty for His provision just in the nick of time.

Some decisions are like that story. Everything seems to be going okay one moment, and then it looks like a wreck could be ahead. Maybe it is in business. Maybe it has to do with a relationship, and because the future cannot be seen, there could be an accident avoided if one never chooses that route.

Most know the song, “I thank God for unanswered prayers,” and anyone who now has the advantage of 20 20 hindsight appreciates the value of those words. Sometimes those avoidance moments are given just in the nick of time to relieve a person of days, weeks, months or years of regrets, and sometimes those regrets last a lifetime. When those moments come, wipe the brow, catch a breath, and thank the Almighty for His provision just in the nick of time.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

The Irretrievable

A little boy was playing fetch with his dog when suddenly the stick he was throwing fell into a deep deep hole. As much as the tenacious dog tried there was no way found to retrieve the desired limb. Though he dug, growled, mashed his nose in the ground, and barked loudly, the stick was gone. The game was over, and there was never to be an opportunity like that one again. The stick was irretrievable, and now either the game would stop or a new stick had to be found.

Some things in life are like that stick, irretrievable. Though a person beg, cry, hope, wish, and pray, there is just no chance to get back that which one used to have. Sometimes it is money, and other times it is a job. Sometimes it is a relationship, and other times it pertains to health. Unfortunately there is not a rewind button where a person gets a second chance at some things, and the loss is only to be suffered, and the memories are all that are left.

Donna knew this. Her words when diagnosed with pancreatic cancer were, “I thought I would have more time. There was so much more I wanted to do.” Henry said, “I knew I should have been a better husband to her, and now she's gone.” Sally said, “I should have been there more for my children. Now they don't even speak to me.” These are just a few of the irretrievables, and those who know them, know them well.

There is one good aspect to that which cannot be retrieved. The memories and pain of those losses can help motivate a person toward the actions of this day. Sticks are still being thrown, and they are not in deep holes yet. The game is different now, but there are new opportunities, and those who take advantage of them will find that which is irretrievable to be mostly a thing of the past.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Seeing Beyond the Blind Spots

While riding down a mountain road, a person is likely to see a sign that says, “Blind Curve Ahead” or “Blind Drive Ahead,” or some other warning like these. The idea is to give the driver ample warning that there may be something that is not seen ahead of which he or she should be award. This type of warning is especially important if a person is riding on a bicycle or motorcycle because failing to be aware could mean great injury or even death. The answer for this warning is to be alert and understand that there is something beyond the blind spot, and it has great application for living.

What if, every now and then, a warning sign was erected in front of a person that said, “Blind Spot Ahead?” Oh, this time it wouldn't be related to driving, but rather would be for a particular relationship, job position, move or otherwise major decision. For example, what if just before a couple were married suddenly a sign rose in front of them that said, “Blind Arguments Ahead?” Or just before someone purchased a car or house another sign emerged that said, “Blind Repairs Ahead?” What advantage would be found if a sign came up that said, “Blind Sickness Ahead?” One supposes there might be many different choices made should there be such signs, however, many do not even bother to read signs now, do they?

Since these signs do not appear, or if they do they are ignored, perhaps the best strategy is to understand that there is usually something beyond the blind spot. Hopefully it is not a cliff, but even if it is, take up wings and sore like an eagle on the flight down. The truth is there are blind spots, and many of them come without warning. The man or woman who has the foresight to look beyond the blind sites, will be the one who has insight to continue moving day or night in his or her life.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

A Fresh Start

The stories are rampant, and the lives show the fallout. She now has his truck as part of the divorce settlement, and he now divides his 401k. He's back to work after years of retirement, and she's back to school to try to make it in the marketplace. She has the kids during the week, and he gets the kids every other weekend. He now has alimony and child support to pay, and she has to make ends meet on very little money. Lives, simply lives, altered and in need of a fresh start.

Television ads that promote fresh starts are abundant, and they tell someone how to meet the “love of their life.” Some send the message of compatibility, and others offer fun times. They boast, “If you'll drink this, or go here, everything will be okay, because when you use this product or go to this place, all your troubles disappear and life begins again.” The difficulty lies in the longevity of such times. They come, and they go, and what is left after the glow is emptiness again.

So, what is one to do when life has turned the tables, altered the pathway, or changed direction for a person? How does one get a fresh start? First, evaluate the current state. Be honest with what is left, and do not pretend to believe that what was there, still is. It is gone, and only fragments are left. Second, decide what those fragments are. Each piece is vitally important to the rebuilding process. Third, begin to rebuild. Although the life that is rebuilt will not look like the previous one, it can still be a very effective life. Sometimes it becomes greater than the original. Finally, learn to be at peace with others and within. Wars and fightings only impede the progress for renewing a life, and if one continues in battles, destruction of the fragments that are left continues. Simply, let them or it go, and begin a fresh start.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Economic Social Costs

A report from the news yesterday said that 1.2 million homes will be lost to foreclosure this year. Another report showed the DOW down over 500 points in yesterday's trading. Job losses, unemployment, consumer confidence down, etc., etc., etc. this country is going through great economic woes, and the monetary costs are very high because of it. However, what must also be considered is the economic social costs associated with times like these.

Tension in the home is rising. Because of the lack of funds, the inability to enjoy vacations as usual or an occasional nice dinner out, some couples are becoming frustrated, and they are taking it out upon one another. Meeting previous obligations becomes the priority, and bills are the drive. Lately it seems that more and more couples are separating or ending in divorce, and their children are feeling the tension too. Their inward thoughts and fears are being manifested through the latest trends in music, body art and revelry. Thank goodness this is not one hundred percent of the cases, but it is on the rise.

There is an old saying that is worthy of consideration, “Having therefore food and clothing, learn therewith to be content.” Recently it seems that the better part of living is being narrowed down to such simplicity. The question is whether those who have had so much for so long can learn such a concept again, and at the very least remove some of the social costs affiliated with the economic woes of the day.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Escape Hatch

Imagine being inside a small box, under water, with handcuffs on, and drowning is only a few moments away. Suddenly, a small hole is noticed at the bottom of the box where a latch is located. Although water is seeping into the small hole, it appears that if a person were to push the latch, an escape hatch would be revealed. With all might that can be mustered, fingers press the small handle and wallah the hatch opens. Swimming by the feet is employed, and safety is just a few moments away. Just think. It was all because of that little hatch, that little escape hatch.

There are some circumstances that seem impossible, and no matter how much a person tries, makes effort, prays, maneuvers or seeks a way out, there is none found. Some of these situations are self-imposed, and some are imposed by others. Some of these situations last a long time, and others have just begun. The key is to look for the small hole with a latch otherwise there will be no way to bear the suffering ahead. Somewhere, somehow, there is an escape hatch available. Although a person may get a little wet after he or she finds the escape hatch, there is a way to get out.

Today's mission is to discover those traps that deserve pursuing an escape hatch. Some of these traps will lead to greater danger if the escape hatch isn't found soon. Others will cause damage to families, and still others may drown one in his or her own tears.

“Escape hatch, where are you? There are readers who are looking for your appearance.”

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Exemptions

“You're entrance fee today is free!” “Today, there is no charge for your meal.” “That ice cream is complementary.” “This afternoon, you have a free pass for watching the show.” “This tank of gas is on the house.” What words these are. What phrases and sounds they are. They are like music to someone's ears. When a person doesn't have to pay for a desired object or event it is so rare these days that it almost is a bygone part of life. It's interesting to think about the idea of exemptions, and whether it is indeed true that the best things in life are free.

Free air, free mobilization, free visuals, free sounds, free relationships all sound wonderful, and it is very true that most do not have to pay for such things. However, who keeps the air clean, and does it cost anything? What if the eyes wane or need correction, is vision inexpensive? What if hearing goes dull and devices are needed to amplify? Who has ever been in any relationship where there isn't some sort of cost along the way? Are there really exemptions in these places?

How about this one, “Tax exempt”? Is that a misnomer? Somewhere, somehow, there is some sort of way to have the exemption pacify for a moment only to make one cry at another time. Oh yes, those are called “fees” now, not taxes. Pardon the semantics please.

For the most part one who choose to search long enough will find the exemptions in life that do not cost. Their advantage is fleeting and sometimes even momentary. Whichever way exemptions come, enjoy, for as soon as they become pleasurable, there will be someone or something that will make what was free have a cost associated with it that everyone will have to pay.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

The Indescribable

Words fall short, and definitions are incomplete. Description is lacking, and illustrations don't even begin to tell. There are some things, some events, some feelings that go beyond the ability to communicate. Sometimes the experience is simply indescribable.

How does a person adequately describe what it is like to watch their child being born? What words can be employed to tell of the deep feelings of falling in love? Is there enough vocabulary to share the overwhelming emotion that is attributed to receiving the news of a fatal disease? Who can speak of the wonder of watching a grand-child simply be, or sitting with a grand-parent that is about to expire? No matter what the experience is or how long the process takes, the person who takes part in some activities will not find the words to share with others what it is like to be them.

No, there merely are no words for others to understand fully some things, and the reservation for such is given to one much greater than any human contact. There is indeed one who knows, and there is indeed one who cares. The fundamental path is to realize that when words cannot describe and vocabulary falls short, there is one who knows even the slightest groan, and can interpret every emotion that a person experiences. Those who seek him will find him, and those who ask will not be turned away.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

From the Outside Looking In

He stood at the window watching the little children play with their new toys. They seemed so happy as they laughed and screamed with excitement. Inwardly the boy felt troubled because he was not as fortunate as those within his eyes, and outwardly he was happy that someone had something that he wished he did. His enjoyment was vicarious, but none-the-less real, and although he did not have from without, within a fire of motivation was birthed and purpose was begun. Soon he would know differently than to be the one on the outside looking in.

There are some things that some people will never have, however, there are some things, that if a person is purposed enough, he or she may have it. Determination, drive, focus and intention all are invisible traits that must be within if one is to obtain that which he or she desires. Obtaining reaches beyond wishing for, hoping for, and wondering if, sometimes it simply takes work. Study. Train. Practice. Align, and continue doing so until the desired is acquired.

There are very few simple solutions, and rarely does that which is desired simply drop in one's lap. No, rather, determination and diligence, purpose and drive do more to reach that which is within, and move the person from the outside window to the prizes that lie within.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?