tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83300383408765325782024-03-12T23:24:22.912-05:00Living Well and Happypenstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.comBlogger137125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-46784159472230438602023-09-17T21:09:00.002-05:002023-09-17T21:09:22.119-05:00Do you Parent with strict discipline<p> If your parenting style is strict and unbending, you could be Authoritarian: Low Love and High Limits.</p><p>Authoritarian parents use limits as their primary style, considering limits more important than love and relationships. They use external control to teach right from wrong and act quickly when a discipline problem occurs.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDh2xZtOsKz1y5Q6rU7tP4vODPPZ9BjwcIXOOk7u53tusTqG0g9y8xosbOzOVCgUptwBiI9mQZo5IULM0llLbp3m1Z0xk9SktDkp-Lx7vFNC2RGx-mlnHsJcs_0Aws-oEgkhKSJqAyqLF4fBfX8wLEXxGWuRA0OgYz5Z9l3ez9NzplqYyjHlmI9x6imITz/s400/authoritarian.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="266" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDh2xZtOsKz1y5Q6rU7tP4vODPPZ9BjwcIXOOk7u53tusTqG0g9y8xosbOzOVCgUptwBiI9mQZo5IULM0llLbp3m1Z0xk9SktDkp-Lx7vFNC2RGx-mlnHsJcs_0Aws-oEgkhKSJqAyqLF4fBfX8wLEXxGWuRA0OgYz5Z9l3ez9NzplqYyjHlmI9x6imITz/s320/authoritarian.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><p></p><p>The authoritarian style views love as obedience, requiring strict adherence to structures and rules to show that love. The parenting style is "old school" and operates on the premise of "Spare the rod and spoil the child."</p><p>Traits of the Authoritarian Parenting Style:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Hold the child to an absolute standard.</li><li>Values obedience and is not prone to give and take.</li><li>Emphasis is on strict family rules, often referred to as military-style parenting.</li><li>They can be restrictive and rigid, demanding absolute obedience, often in a 'do as I say, not as I do' parenting style. Punishment is often harsh and punitive and can perceived as abusive, both physically and emotionally.</li><li>Exercise a high degree of psychological control over their children, harming their natural growth and maturation.</li><li>Expect their children to accept their judgments, values, and opinions respectfully. Style - Defined:</li></ul><p></p><p>Consequently, children are usually quick to react and rarely get their parents to negotiate. These children perform moderately well in school and do not usually display problem behavior, but they have poorer social skills, lower self-esteem, and higher levels of depression.</p><p>Authoritarian parents do love their children. The parents want obedience and value this obedience over understanding the impulsive nature of children. To them, it is more important that the kid be controlled and well-behaved. The fact that the parents care enough to constantly monitor and curtail a child's playful "me" centered nature proves their love. However, in the authoritative pursuit of good behavior, the creative and happy nature of the children is often ignored.</p><div><br /></div>penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-73755658726829933622023-09-17T20:38:00.002-05:002023-09-17T20:38:51.836-05:00Are you a Permissive Parent<p>Are you a Permissive Parent: High Love and Low Limits.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlsoEBFBF9sWik9HVTwUnlHCeKq_5OuujkbcaQHWHRhphXMEfl4R_Q9Bf_7Ik4Yn_e1KAbmXiIDiwPHpq8G5iqF2BZnes6bmx7sjMrlXcT9h0kS-D1DuTuFSlwT8iuMl0VL4eIJtXCZFSHSL6sLyQVGRy_VWnm0rZWOg5lxyf42NNtDVRA_F-Q8QLajHo6/s400/permissive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="400" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlsoEBFBF9sWik9HVTwUnlHCeKq_5OuujkbcaQHWHRhphXMEfl4R_Q9Bf_7Ik4Yn_e1KAbmXiIDiwPHpq8G5iqF2BZnes6bmx7sjMrlXcT9h0kS-D1DuTuFSlwT8iuMl0VL4eIJtXCZFSHSL6sLyQVGRy_VWnm0rZWOg5lxyf42NNtDVRA_F-Q8QLajHo6/s320/permissive.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Permissive parents use love as their primary style and consider love more important than limits. These parents believe that if they love their child enough, the child will love them so much that things will go smoothly. They also think using attachment and their bond with their child will teach them right from wrong. They spend much time with the child, communicating, negotiating, and reasoning. </p><p>The psychology of a child is primarily ME-centered. Children are not born evil or good, and they are not self-regulating. As they grow, kids learn limits from their parents. Early limitations include bedtimes, eating on a schedule, and playtime. The older the child, the more limits he is capable of. </p><p>Permissive parents believe that love conquers all and sometimes do not consider the inability of the child to understand the benefits of love. Kids are taken care of from birth and perceive this as their right of existence. The parents need to teach that love is not a right but a benefit of acceptable social behavior. </p><p>Permissive moms and dads think their children will return their love with obedience and acceptable behavior. Kids believe that mom and dad love them so much that it will be okay no matter what they do. When children enter school, they are confused and saddened to learn that the world does not love them.</p><p>The traits of permissive parenting:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Accepting and affirmative, but do not place demands on the child to enforce the child's responsibility for his conduct. </li><li>Be tolerant toward the child's wants and impulses, including those of the aggressive ones.</li><li>Usually, they have trouble saying "no" and setting boundaries and guidelines for their kids. </li><li>Tend to be lenient and avoid asserting authority or imposing controls or restrictions. These parents avoid confrontation when possible.</li><li>Few demands exist for acceptable behavior, like table manners or home responsibilities—very few rules for bedtimes, homework schedules, mealtimes, or TV watching.</li><li>Allow the children to control their behavior and to make their own decisions. </li><li>Discipline is inconsistent, creating problems centering on a child's lack of responsibility, motivation, and self-control. </li></ul><p></p><p>Studies have shown that the permissive parenting style has a more negative than positive effect. Children are often impulsive and aggressive and lack independence and personal responsibility. This style often leads to demanding and selfish behavior rather than the child being loving and supportive of others.</p><p>Children are often insecure because of the lack of defined boundaries. While the kids have high self-esteem and good social skills, there is often problem behavior and a lack of motivation in school and adult life because the children have not learned to be accountable for their actions. </p><div><br /></div>penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-11747562820237824232023-02-22T08:41:00.002-06:002023-02-22T08:41:37.881-06:00How did you meet the Lord?<p> </p><p>God is ever-present, looking and longing for those who will come to Him. (2 Chronicles 16:9) How did you catch God’s eye? Were there times of trouble and grief, or were you struck by the truth that God exists?</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAodzw-mVteIYv4r7YQwIdRC-wfcB5OGS9IgSg20w9DrS5frIGxKPc-MtNZQnyjc5qcdJ2F8woc99HlNGbNCcwagdl5C93EszzF9SabVg2W48vEhjAjQqW7-McDGpFnLRSuGdiDOdF-JaQ-FBBNgjnZmdQB2js7L7CNLyxu1-kVRd00TqP5LHY8LIXCQ/s800/meeting%20God%20(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAodzw-mVteIYv4r7YQwIdRC-wfcB5OGS9IgSg20w9DrS5frIGxKPc-MtNZQnyjc5qcdJ2F8woc99HlNGbNCcwagdl5C93EszzF9SabVg2W48vEhjAjQqW7-McDGpFnLRSuGdiDOdF-JaQ-FBBNgjnZmdQB2js7L7CNLyxu1-kVRd00TqP5LHY8LIXCQ/w400-h225/meeting%20God%20(2).jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>I met the Lord during the Jesus movement in the. late 1970s. My friends were “saved,” and I thought they were stupid. I didn’t not believe in God; I just couldn’t see the need for it in my life. </p><p>I am a poet, and I was working on a poem about the creation of the earth, some hippie notion of Father Moon and Mother Sun. I remembered the Bible talked about giants who walked the land, and, in curiosity, I asked a woman who was a precher’s wife, if I could come and speak with her husband.</p><p>I went to their home and spent thdiscussingalking about what the Bible says about the giants and other things. As I left, her husband said if I wanted to know more, I should read the first book of John. </p><p> A few days passed. As I was cooking dinner one evening, I remembered what he said. I found the Bible my mom gave me when I got married. I looked for the first book of John and opened the Bible to John 1:1: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God”.</p><p>The power and Spirit of God entered my heart and consumed my mind. It was an unseen bright light shining through me. I knew this was the truth. And that is how, 47 years ago, I met the Lord. I have never regretted one day of this life.</p><div><br /></div>penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-7638799190051643102022-10-30T17:16:00.002-05:002022-10-30T17:16:14.645-05:00Halloween-Last minute ideas for a backyard bash<p>Have a backyard bash to celebrate Halloween. Gather your costumed friends to gather for a backyard Halloween party that includes a bonfire, smoking punch, snacks, and games. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjVMUx-2T144922XV_y_J9pAOWJkCXMxDO_SGGP0f-K-lQTH4QTOiyL_kyzPJuqUsnNHKmyLjn2icmO-ytFY0EcDCVmaVmcUiYffbrN-7_lZazarVrWCyMQmdNV7bNDMzUFxUpU1Wlw9D35mCZguJuXfdLFofvofN8SAhozXnwGjpi3IDs7J1DxvpHmw/s1024/jackolatern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="673" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjVMUx-2T144922XV_y_J9pAOWJkCXMxDO_SGGP0f-K-lQTH4QTOiyL_kyzPJuqUsnNHKmyLjn2icmO-ytFY0EcDCVmaVmcUiYffbrN-7_lZazarVrWCyMQmdNV7bNDMzUFxUpU1Wlw9D35mCZguJuXfdLFofvofN8SAhozXnwGjpi3IDs7J1DxvpHmw/w263-h400/jackolatern.jpg" width="263" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><u><b>Build the bonfire</b></u></p><p>If you do not have a firepit, build a bonfire pit a safe distance from the house.<br />Dig a shallow hole large enough to contain the fire.<br />Set two medium-sized logs side by side in the middle of the hole.<br />Place newspapers, hay, or wood pieces in the spot for kindling.<br />Light a match and carefully place it in the middle of the bonfire to start the kindling.<br />When the kindling has an intense flame, place another log across the top of the fire.<br />When the top log catches fire, your bonfire is good to go. Feed the fire regularly throughout the party. Be sure to douse it with water when the party ends.</p><p><u><b>Halloween Punch</b></u></p><p>Make your favorite punch and encase it with dry ice to create a spooky atmosphere. For the how-to, watch the video below.</p><p><u><b>Prepare for ghostly games</b></u></p><p>The Mummy</p><p>Break into teams of three or four. Each team will have a toilet paper roll and choose one person to be the mummy. Each team has five or ten minutes (whichever you decide) to use the entire roll of toilet paper to wrap their mummy. The winners are the team with the fastest time and the most creative mummy. Prizes can be candy, popcorn balls, or a round of applause.</p><p><u>Eat the Donut</u></p><p>Use tree limbs or a clothesline between two trees and hang donuts using string. Donuts should be slightly higher than the average teen. Choose teams of two, and tie them together at the waist. Each team tries to eat the donut without using their hands or arms—the first team to eat the donut wins. If a donut falls to the ground, the team is eliminated. </p><p><u>Blindfold Drum Finder</u></p><p>Choose one person to be the drummer. The drum can be a pot or hollow log, anything that resonates. </p><p>The game begins when the drummer drums once. Each player is blindfolded, and the drummer chooses a spot away from the bonfire. The blindfolded teens try to find the drummer. The drummer can make a sound every few minutes. The game continues until each teen has found the drummer. The drummer, if found too quickly, may change location. </p><p><b>How to Use Dry Ice with Halloween Punch</b> (click here)</p><div><br /></div>penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-25129062395028180242022-10-23T16:45:00.001-05:002022-10-23T16:45:56.307-05:00Quiet Beauty of Fall Morning<p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCMtZaxoHsCE9TuxuOL4LTTySlJe6WU-xIAOc5wOSO0rWsSrOZZ9auWbZjXWJjUgmfN78Iw_H2PUG8XJ8aH2qkrC3qe9pjKjWZGRh5gxconvH8rpr4nCudC4hPoBE8Je2S_AufbnJwpDSrYhUKGvA0wvbHEe6AH2x69HEeD6f9HWdk_9ZWZ0relIaiag/s780/sunlight%20fall%20porch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="524" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCMtZaxoHsCE9TuxuOL4LTTySlJe6WU-xIAOc5wOSO0rWsSrOZZ9auWbZjXWJjUgmfN78Iw_H2PUG8XJ8aH2qkrC3qe9pjKjWZGRh5gxconvH8rpr4nCudC4hPoBE8Je2S_AufbnJwpDSrYhUKGvA0wvbHEe6AH2x69HEeD6f9HWdk_9ZWZ0relIaiag/w269-h418/sunlight%20fall%20porch.jpg" width="269" /></a></div><span face="Calibri, "sans-serif"" style="font-size: 16pt;">Quiet beauty:</span><span style="font-size: 16pt;"> </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 16pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Silent sun shines softly bright<br /></span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">On the waning green of trees about to winter.<br /></span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Penetrating the leaves<br /></span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">And outlining each vein.<br /></span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">This whispering sun caresses the grass.<br /></span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">With fine filters through the fence cracks,<br /></span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">It gently covers the house<br /></span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">And slips gracefully through the moss.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 16pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">A fragile day, this end of summer.<br /></span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">The earthy breeze and tender sun<br /></span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">So carefully preserve the warmth.<br /></span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">A tended hearth.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 16pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Portend of the coming quiet beauty<br /></span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Of another season.</span></p>penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-48193905127640453962022-09-25T17:34:00.001-05:002022-09-25T17:34:57.448-05:00Climate change: what is the cause? What solutions can we apply?<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuT0LU0MPRK_rG-yKV8CRzAMuejESrTV3n5818F-_fQ9YtxYEfumfbD6kbOmTogPsicdeIxREc0gyGZWKqHtOJzciYNsygwfFlOnytrs11u0HbEgzpVIdQ_8H9XqRDlrr3TU6lbl1Hin-rZNHH3IbG5yxfEBf4h7QUl6aUnUE-K85vTX_yihdh_SqAMg/s2048/deep-woods-1540473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuT0LU0MPRK_rG-yKV8CRzAMuejESrTV3n5818F-_fQ9YtxYEfumfbD6kbOmTogPsicdeIxREc0gyGZWKqHtOJzciYNsygwfFlOnytrs11u0HbEgzpVIdQ_8H9XqRDlrr3TU6lbl1Hin-rZNHH3IbG5yxfEBf4h7QUl6aUnUE-K85vTX_yihdh_SqAMg/w400-h300/deep-woods-1540473.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Climate change, global warming: We experience it every day.
The increase in severe weather, the droughts, and the melting ice are all
symptoms of a worldwide illness. I recently read an article discussing the causes
of alarming global warming. This article states, "Human activity has
rapidly increased the emission of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. <a href="https://www.climatechange.environment.nsw.gov.au/causes-climate-change#:~:text=N2O)-,The%20enhanced%20greenhouse%20effect,gas%20concentrations%20in%20our%20atmosphere.">Since
the start of the Industrial Revolution</a>-human activities such as burning
fossil fuels, including coal and oil, have increased greenhouse gas concentrations
in our atmosphere."<br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The article did not point out the number of factories and
cities constructed during the industrial revolution. Building the factories and
towns required the consumption of acres of trees to clear the land and build the
needed housing. Transporting goods and people led to the need for roads and
railroads. While removing the trees, the use of fossil fuels increased with few
remaining air filters (trees) to combat the warming effects of these greenhouse
gases.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">There is always cause and effect. The cause is the
deforestation of the land and increased use of fossil fuels. The effect is
global warming or planetary destruction. There is a reasonable, cost-effective
method to reduce carbon dioxide using this simple cause and effect model. The technique
is how our planet developed the life-sustaining air we need to exist. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Trees are natural air purifiers using a process termed
photosynthesis. During this process, leaves pull in carbon dioxide and water
and use the sun's energy to convert this into chemical compounds such as sugars
that feed the tree. But as a by-product of that chemical reaction, oxygen is
produced and released by the tree</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Governments <a href="https://climatenexus.org/climate-change-usa/#:~:text=Rising%20seas%2C%20increased%20droughts%2C%20more%20intense%20heatwaves%20and,change%20by%20limiting%20emissions%20from%20the%20energy%20sector.">spend
billions of dollars</a> seeking to control carbon emissions and develop
alternative energy sources. Carbon cleaning plants capture and bury the carbon
dioxide. But these plants do nothing to release breathable oxygen back to
nature.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> Iceland introduced
the world's <a href="https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/world-s-largest-carbon-capturing-plant-launches-in-iceland/6219812.html#:~:text=A%20Swiss%20company%20that%20developed,plant%20began%20operations%20on%20Wednesday.">largest
carbon cleaning plant</a>, claiming the plant will remove 3,600 metric tons or
7,936,632 pounds per year. About 15 plants are in operation.. It is excellent
to clean carbon dioxide from the air; it is better to set up an efficient air
filter that removes the carbon dioxide and returns clean air. Achieving this is
simple and rewarding. 165,347 mature trees can achieve the same air
purification. One tree <a href="https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2015/03/17/power-one-tree-very-air-we-breathe">removes
48 pounds</a> of carbon dioxide from the air and returns breathable oxygen. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The funding from the federal and state governments would be
better used to reforest cities, develop incentives for builders to resist the
need to raze land before building homes and business sites and remove blighted
city areas, replacing these areas with trees. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Reforesting is not a novel idea. China, the <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/092915/5-countries-produce-most-carbon-dioxide-co2.asp">top
polluter of carbon dioxide</a>, launched a reforestation project in 1999 to
combat the damaged landscape of China's industrial growth. China has spent
upward of 100 billion dollars, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/wider-image-china-farmers-push-back-desert-one-tree-time-2021-06-02/">benefiting</a>
crops, controlling in part the carbon dioxide emissions, and has raised the
forest coverage to about a quarter of China's total land.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">In the U.S., combating the degradation and rise in crime in blighted
urban neighborhoods could be better served by removing abandoned buildings and
replacing these with trees. Many communities have pockets of blight, a breeding
ground for drugs, crime, and despair. Replacing these areas with trees would
improve living conditions and create an environment of hope and a future. One
acre of blight can hold 80-120 trees and remove 3,840 to 5,760 pounds of
pollution from the air in one year.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">So what can one individual do? Plant trees. <a href="https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/15-of-the-best-trees-for-any-backyard-49100">Incorporate
trees</a> into your landscaping projects. Various trees enhance any yard; some are
quick growing, like the Quaking Aspen, Sugar Maple, and Arborvitaes. Whichever type
of tree you choose, remember one mature tree can create enough oxygen to
support 4 people. <br /></p>penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-41174589221953994072022-09-23T17:45:00.000-05:002022-09-25T17:47:49.361-05:00Life happens as we breathe<br />
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNnEYIMTxMziHo4Y6-atDYZXWSZlLcPllPEBYvdVej9lNFI7FrkYTfcMj8GdTs9xEMcxTCX-I3XIddA-F-quF83q4K28UV6FZQ4lER7GiFk4r23iDmVnWV7d-6h-185YMA76YJiRy2mlR_a5tKtrATbP7O2t21GpH59Bg6MXkOwcQUnQR8QJ0coZ8U_A/s849/garden%20hose.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="849" data-original-width="566" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNnEYIMTxMziHo4Y6-atDYZXWSZlLcPllPEBYvdVej9lNFI7FrkYTfcMj8GdTs9xEMcxTCX-I3XIddA-F-quF83q4K28UV6FZQ4lER7GiFk4r23iDmVnWV7d-6h-185YMA76YJiRy2mlR_a5tKtrATbP7O2t21GpH59Bg6MXkOwcQUnQR8QJ0coZ8U_A/s320/garden%20hose.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Enjoy every day in your life. Smile often, and look for the good. Our life is like a flash of light, burning bright, then gone. </span><p></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-family: Calibri;">From breath to breath we are born and die.<br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">First flashing as a star, shining with every promise,<br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Then settling into orbit, steady into life as breath exhales.<br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We turn, and what we leave is what we bring<br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Between the breaths.</span></i></p>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ecclesiastes 3 begins: There is a time for everything and a
season for every activity under the heavens. In this book, Solomon explores the
meaning of life. By the end of chapter 12, Solomon understands that the lures
and adventures of life alone are <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>meaningless and shares, "Fear God and keep his
commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every
deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil."</span><br />
<div><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I wrote this poem to read at my brother's memorial. My brother fell off the dock where he worked and hit his head. It was a sudden passing.</span><br style="font-family: "Times New Roman";" /></span></div>penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-36844243161258567792022-09-09T20:00:00.000-05:002022-09-25T18:15:39.598-05:00God's Word Became Real<div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhohoV3P103JCuZZx2loRrf6bVHudivt-A1qEGpOrRcUZ-6Lg6dKKtU-9rLmo-SzDXWxz4nup_dlNPqc9N8DzWRpWP_e4K8L6ipXAwhI7Dbqv0z24z3lhcebMGiE1-VWjIhf-1JDAVvt5EOzYnEll0zP9ovbIgVjtfnxyzgqbT8ibsQAmbbqsMtdz_s8Q/s1024/Reading%20alive.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="683" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhohoV3P103JCuZZx2loRrf6bVHudivt-A1qEGpOrRcUZ-6Lg6dKKtU-9rLmo-SzDXWxz4nup_dlNPqc9N8DzWRpWP_e4K8L6ipXAwhI7Dbqv0z24z3lhcebMGiE1-VWjIhf-1JDAVvt5EOzYnEll0zP9ovbIgVjtfnxyzgqbT8ibsQAmbbqsMtdz_s8Q/s320/Reading%20alive.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
God's Word is alive-it did not dry with the ink. Some Christians believe that the Word cannot be heard or understood based on
individual verses, yet God speaks to the heart through a verse or chapter.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I
have been perplexed lately about the disturbances I have felt in my heart. I
listen to others talk and hear their ideas concerning leading people to the
Lord and how they believe they should live. All are good, but something is unsettling to me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been praying and seeking God about this. I did not
know if I was missing something, believing falsely, or what was going on. I
began to look up the word 'reasoning' because this seems to be happening in
the conversations. And, in my Christian walk, I do not count on reasoning but
simply believing God. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">John 8:47 (KJV) <i>He that is of God heareth God's words: ye, therefore, hear them not, because ye are not of God.</i> I read John 8:47, and this helped me a lot. Based on my own
experience with Jesus, it was not arguments or justifications, but the
overwhelming presence of God and the realization that this was the truth that brought me to salvation. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During the 70s, the "Jesus Movement" began. Many of my
friends were saved, and we talked about their experiences. I was not
moved and did not feel a great need to 'find Jesus. I was working on a poem
about the origins of creation and asked a woman I worked with, a
pastor's wife, if I could come and speak with her and her husband about some
questions I had about descriptions in the Bible<br />. We talked for a long time
about the giants in the land and some aspects of what the Word said about
creation. As I left, the pastor suggested I read the book of John.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not knowing the Bible but remembering the word "John," I got
out the Catholic Bible my mom had given me when I was married. I opened it,
found John 1, and began to read. This is what I read, and this is what happened.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>In the beginning, was
the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God...and the Word became
flesh and dwelt among us. John 1:1-14(NKJV)<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Agnostic eyes read these words.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My brain translating concepts into thoughts:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Flowing electricity</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Through the fortifications of all I knew.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stunned, I stared at lilac walls,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Laced with the afternoon sun. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I sat, looking at the big book in my hand,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My brain clicking internal binary codes,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Programming inroads</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Through disconnected memory files</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And suddenly, </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Organized sense awoke.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A veil was lifted:</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I gasped, "I'm saved."</div>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-20429519740144846642022-08-28T19:40:00.000-05:002022-08-28T19:40:05.485-05:00Practical ways to recognize and managing stress<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLzNggeOfKgn5HQ-zNo4SCcu2jarsb9DAeTOu0dP8G-2yvEVfDrR1oP6L9_HDUFWZY8LP42rhQ-Awb-qWtiXdQEioJyCRX5mfoCCtAdPftPw9cyAOOi_6l5ucGkZN4E6RfEvsJ9856ZADT3VmfDJh7eygvr0oGn4XkDD02Z8dtMWxLzGgxhFVUQyRvgg/s971/Stress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="971" data-original-width="682" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLzNggeOfKgn5HQ-zNo4SCcu2jarsb9DAeTOu0dP8G-2yvEVfDrR1oP6L9_HDUFWZY8LP42rhQ-Awb-qWtiXdQEioJyCRX5mfoCCtAdPftPw9cyAOOi_6l5ucGkZN4E6RfEvsJ9856ZADT3VmfDJh7eygvr0oGn4XkDD02Z8dtMWxLzGgxhFVUQyRvgg/w281-h400/Stress.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>Mental stress occurs when you are frustrated, angry, or
anxious. Stress can happen in a productive situation, like stressing muscles to
gain strength, or stress can negatively impact the body and mind. Some pressure
is good, improving motivation and productivity. But what can you do when stress
elevates to an unhealthy level? What's stressful for one person may not be
stressful for another. <p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">If it causes you to stress, that is enough. Look for ways to
manage the stress that is individual to your circumstances. I am a
"hands-on Controller." I get
paid good money to serve as office manager and financial wizard and to ensure
profitable operational control. In this role, my stress can be overwhelming. Employees
have demands, emails to answer, financial statements to compile and report,
bills to be paid, and cash to receive and apply to the customers' accounts.
Once I thought about running down the hall and bouncing off the wall, knocking
myself silly.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Stress can include too many phone calls and emails, meetings
that interfere with deadlines, and the physical stress of sitting or standing
for an extended period. However, learning to manage stress is the healthier way
to meet the daily challenge. When facing pressure at work, maintain a sense of
humor. Realize that mistakes happen.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> One of the simplest
methods is to take periodic breaks. Get up, stretch, and move away from your
work area for a few minutes. If your work culture does not have formal breaks, you can still take short breaks to play a game
of solitaire or a word game, anything quick requiring concentration that takes
your mind off the problem or situation. Or take a break and remain productive
by sorting your mail, cleaning off your desk, or catching up on some filing.
These tasks are mental breaks.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Practice deep breathing: sit up straight, inhale deeply and
exhale to the count of 10. Repeat this four or five times. It increases the
oxygen in the blood and will refresh you. When the focus is on breathing, your
mind will relax. You may come up with a better idea or change your perceptions.
</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">For continuous stress management, exercise regularly.
Exercise releases endorphins, which elevate your mood and help promote a sense
of well-being. I like to exercise right after work. Exercising is my way to
bridge the day between work and home. Walking enables you to relax, releases
the workday, and renews your energy for the next set of tasks at home. You can
also take an aerobic or yoga class on your way home from work or simply exercise
at a gym with some good music.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Remember to include laughter in your daily routine. Laughing
has positive benefits and is proven to reduce stress. Laughter enables you to
be less serious about yourself and lifts your spirits. Laughter can result in
more creativity and perhaps better problem-solving. I have a dark sense of
humor and employ this daily. I have a voodoo doll with my boss's face glued
on it and a big hatpin holding it on my bulletin board. If this is not for you,
still look for opportunities to laugh. Make some time to enjoy a good comedy
show or movie, the sillier, the better.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Make time to read. Concentrating takes your mind off the day
and helps you to rest. For the best relief, put the trade journals aside and
pick up a mystery or romance. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Managing stress is possible. It is important to move away
from the circumstances that promote stress. Socialize regularly with friends. A
good dinner with friends, a movie, shopping, playing cards, bowling, or taking
a pottery class (or whatever interests you) help maintain a sense of self and
accomplishment apart from the workplace. Recognize what your stress inducers
are, and use short breaks, laughter, exercise, reading, and time with friends
to allow yourself time to recharge.</p><br />penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-44947772531030961402022-04-17T21:08:00.001-05:002022-04-17T21:08:19.400-05:00Parenting Style for Successful Kids<p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMKeZo7IlrSKglkQWUxLppWo5EOnDKnWoUB6jEZd1al7HvJqH0W2iV1k5DF9_FoK-FGkBC96-HpSGMMNZSy9U-s5NcxlTizu4CHB10iAs-g0lVlgPYm9ae5bSQIMohjcb5jtXhPFIpm8jumx_nWPApqFtI-T9E2s_ewUtLyQDBW47zX9HeHTia67vgQ/s400/parents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="400" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMKeZo7IlrSKglkQWUxLppWo5EOnDKnWoUB6jEZd1al7HvJqH0W2iV1k5DF9_FoK-FGkBC96-HpSGMMNZSy9U-s5NcxlTizu4CHB10iAs-g0lVlgPYm9ae5bSQIMohjcb5jtXhPFIpm8jumx_nWPApqFtI-T9E2s_ewUtLyQDBW47zX9HeHTia67vgQ/s320/parents.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> If
you are looking for a way to raise a child who listens and succeeds, try this
parenting style. The name sounds gloomy, but it is a tried and true method of
child-rearing. It is Authoritative parenting, practicing high love and high limits.</p><p>Authoritative parents aim to be both firm and responsive. The goal is to set
clear guidelines of behavior in hopes of raising kids who are self-confident, self-motivated,
and cooperative.</p><p>These parents
participate in a give-and-take relationship with their kids. They explain
behavior and limits. <i>A bonus: this
style works well with both compliant and strong-willed children</i>. This helps
kids develop self-reliance, do well in school, and become socially adept.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Steps to Authoritative Parenting:</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Listen to the child's point of view and expresses your point
of view. This creates open communication and supports verbal give-and-take.</li><li>Make eye contact while talking to the child. This lets the child
know they are listening.</li><li>Promote the child's independence, individuality, and
creativity by being sensitive and teaching the child to have a degree of openness
in return. </li><li>Decide and define the age-appropriate behavior expected. Clearly
explain the standards and boundaries that are firmly set.</li><li>Be consistent in discipline: act, do not make empty threats.
One or two of these and kids get the idea. </li><li>Reward good behavior.</li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>Rewards of Authoritative Parenting:</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Children grow up experiencing safe boundaries.</li><li>Kids are encouraged to question in a mutually respectful
environment.</li><li>Kids learn to think for themselves, experiencing personal
independence and responsibility. </li></ul><p></p>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-45307963976429495142020-07-14T19:23:00.001-05:002020-07-14T19:23:45.847-05:00Dealing with teen's messy roomKeep your sanity during the teen years and learn the best way to deal with a teen’s messy room. Use this simple trick when your teen’s room resembles a junk yard: “Close the door”.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4oS6Hap-YIM74i25sRUjTZoQy8NTdwT4If_ZsoVp9Q2X5rDlgac_l74UlyiBMz9k3cnoB4hDak3S7H4ZiA7uF8X9ZY9lAvTieX9C0rkmdDj7nAbRiSYFOPFIEmBGPPpYNxOSn4BgLuhu/s1600/a+messy+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="867" data-original-width="1164" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4oS6Hap-YIM74i25sRUjTZoQy8NTdwT4If_ZsoVp9Q2X5rDlgac_l74UlyiBMz9k3cnoB4hDak3S7H4ZiA7uF8X9ZY9lAvTieX9C0rkmdDj7nAbRiSYFOPFIEmBGPPpYNxOSn4BgLuhu/s320/a+messy+room.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Honestly, mess does not bother teens. Continually nagging only exhausts you and leads to arguments.<br />
<br />
Part of teen development is the need to be independent and exert their individuality. To a teenager, their room is their ’space’ and they interpret a parent’s nagging as a parent trying to control them.<br />
<br />
You can try some actions in addition to closing the door to your teenager’s room. However, you have to be ready and firm.<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Let your teen know the day before you do laundry that his or her clothes need to be in the laundry area. If your teen is not motivated enough to gather dirty clothes, don’t gather them. Having no clean clothes is a great motivator. </li>
<li>When your teen leaves shoes, coats, backpacks or purses on the floor or in the main living area, simply pick these items up and toss them into your teenager’s room. Then close the door. When your teen cannot find his shoes or her purse in the bedroom, your teen will be motivated to organize.</li>
<li>Refuse to engage in any arguments concerning the whereabouts of a particular item. Simply respond, “It’s in your room”. While you cannot control your teen’s mess, you can push responsibility back onto your teen to take care of their possessions.</li>
</ol>
<br />
If you feel guilty about throwing items in your teen’s room or not gathering laundry, buy a large laundry basket and a 30-gallon trash can. Place the laundry basket and the trash can inside your teen’s room, close to the door. This will give your teen an opportunity to put this or her dirty clothes together for the laundry. The trashcan is a place for the backpack, purse, or loose shoes and coats that are left in the living area. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-43564404710389682442020-07-14T18:58:00.001-05:002020-07-14T18:58:54.274-05:00Learning to use paste wax on hardwood floorsI live in a 1940s home with original hardwood floors. I decided to use paste wax because the finish was worn and dull. I have tried liquid wax, but it wears off too fast. In my case, it was less month. I read that paste wax lasts several months, and decided to use paste wax on my hardwood floors.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGr4atHc_dOiJDYOIcbqh5KWwGA1XFiqZ-06zwfDw1r5HJCTUVudLJxab6Mm9lu7WRtQ77OVeXEi_5Li1ECyNtRPqDWrPqtjZ0w8XS_1ggOkMuRBsJ4SphL7lhlmUDlOP8d5EnFiLK00nF/s1600/Waxing+floor+new.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="209" data-original-width="260" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGr4atHc_dOiJDYOIcbqh5KWwGA1XFiqZ-06zwfDw1r5HJCTUVudLJxab6Mm9lu7WRtQ77OVeXEi_5Li1ECyNtRPqDWrPqtjZ0w8XS_1ggOkMuRBsJ4SphL7lhlmUDlOP8d5EnFiLK00nF/s320/Waxing+floor+new.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I did some research and read several terrifying articles about how to prepare the floors and apply the paste wax. I did not want to sand or steel wool anything. And I was not going to apply the paste wax by hand. My house is full hardwood. I could not move out all the furniture. Yet <i>none of the research told me how to get the paste wax out of the can and onto the floor.</i><br />
<br />
I had to devise my own methods. I chose a flip mop for wax application. This has a detachable washable cover and is soft enough to hold the wax. I am too small to move the furniture, and had nowhere to put it anyway since I was doing all the floors.<br />
<br />
I used my Mighty Mite floor vacuum (which will suck the paint off the walls) and mopped the floors with my usual cleaner. I do own a Cleaning Machine with buffing attachments, so when the floors dried, I was good to go.<br />
<br />
First, I took a small handful of the wax and threw it on the floor. I put the flip mop on the glob of wax, centering the flip mop on top of the paste wax. I moved the flip mop from left to right to work the wax into the soft fabric. Then I applied the paste wax, spreading a thin layer on the floor. I did have to use a rag in the smaller places. It took about an hour to apply the wax throughout the house: two bedrooms, hallway, living room and dining room.<br />
<br />
I set the timer for 30 minutes after I finished all the floors. I relaxed outside. When the time was up, I put the buffing pads on my Cleaning Machine and began buffing the first room I waxed. If you get the wax on too thick, the buffing pads will fly off the machine. I learned this.<br />
<br />
I continued to buff and put the pads back on until the entire house was buffed. I did use the polisher pads a few hours later and again the next day. It takes about two days for the paste wax to cure. I had to go back to the places where I put the wax on too thick over the next two days. So be careful when spreading the wax.<br />
<br />
The next coating will go on with a Swiffer. I am thinking the sturdy paper will be more porous and apply the paste wax better.<br />
<br />
The floors look very good. The entire process took about two and one half hours. It was not terrifying. I didn’t need sanding and mineral spirits. I just needed paste wax, an applicator, and a buffer. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-26057373196606009992020-07-07T20:31:00.000-05:002020-07-07T20:31:06.119-05:00God disarms me<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<span style="color: black;">Have you ever stopped in your tracks, realizing you are
full of yourself? Our knowledge, our success, our achievements-</span>these
make us feel so proud and in control. Then, in a moment, we stop and realize we
are not yielding to God, rather trying to make Him yield to us. Holding fast to
the rudder of our destiny, all the while God is whispering “Let go”.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
God disarms me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Within my heart are many
ways,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Each tumbles.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And over each is only
One</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Abiding peace, smooth steps
of standing</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Held fast and safe.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Revealed, this pride and
jealousy and judgment:</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Word healed my
blindness</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cut deep the weave of
web that held my sin.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It burst forth, force,
spilling onto the floor</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I could see.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shame has gripped me</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Realizing how I have filtered
the Hand of God</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gripping it to guide, bend it to my will-</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
God would not, and still</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
His love remains.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Right now, I cannot lift
my eyes to look at His loveliness</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So sad, horrified, and
shamed by the deceit I promoted.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have done such damage
to His plan</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I cannot undo my hard
thoughts and hard words</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They hang in the past,
billowing into my present.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I do know God, His true
goodness</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I feel I have taken
advantage of His mercy</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I can only lay, face
down in His presence, begging mercy</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I know He loves me
always</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I sorrow because I have
misused the Great Love</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I pray for strength to
stand firm and not do it again.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
God knows my heart. He
remembers I am dust. I am reminded</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That all I know, I want,
I see, is but a wanton wisp of fleeting flesh</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fading in the light of
eternity.</div>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-20386920007002195282020-06-10T19:50:00.001-05:002020-06-10T19:50:47.688-05:00The downside of energy drinks
<div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia91xebePbt3QGgG0zbzaeJuV2TILxyR3rBBBBv1OJHY-mjzGSHgNhXfZRFqYv8P_eUbsiv7v0FRRnnpFGLtpEAmDM4Iao9psu6dAQaTj9iMgBMuXrgMINKNDHyjLtM9OwAagwNjIzhXDK/s1024/energy+drink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: right; color: #0066cc; float: right; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia91xebePbt3QGgG0zbzaeJuV2TILxyR3rBBBBv1OJHY-mjzGSHgNhXfZRFqYv8P_eUbsiv7v0FRRnnpFGLtpEAmDM4Iao9psu6dAQaTj9iMgBMuXrgMINKNDHyjLtM9OwAagwNjIzhXDK/s320/energy+drink.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia91xebePbt3QGgG0zbzaeJuV2TILxyR3rBBBBv1OJHY-mjzGSHgNhXfZRFqYv8P_eUbsiv7v0FRRnnpFGLtpEAmDM4Iao9psu6dAQaTj9iMgBMuXrgMINKNDHyjLtM9OwAagwNjIzhXDK/s1024/energy+drink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #0066cc; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></a></div>How often do you reach for an energy drink to increase
alertness? While energy drinks help during tasks that require focus, regular
consumption of energy drinks pose health risks and sudden death in some
individuals. When we choose energy drinks as a substitute for sleep, we injure
our bodies and can develop long-term health problems. Research and company
product analysis reveals the average teen and young adult consumes two to three
16-ounce to 24-ounce servings daily.<br />
<br />
While parents recoil at the thought of young teens having
coffee with breakfast, permitting energy drinks causes excess caffeine
consumption and leads to a host of additional health issues. It is important to
understand that the instant alertness from an energy drink comes from excess
amounts of caffeine and sugar. An eight-ounce cup of coffee contains 100 milligrams
of caffeine, as does eight ounces of the average energy drink. However, the
average size for an energy drink is 16 to 24 ounces, containing 200 to 300 milligrams
of caffeine per can.<br />
<br />
When the caffeine content in the energy drink is combined
with sugar, (an average of 15 teaspoons, or one-third cup, per 16 ounce
serving), trace B vitamins, and carnitine (an amino acid purportedly pumps up
endurance and promotes fat burning. Most people only need extra carnitine if
deficient (which is rare) and more than 3 grams a day can lead to stomach upset
and possibly seizures. The combination of ingredients in energy drinks can lead
to high blood pressure, depression, and cardiac arrhythmia. As of 2014, 34 cases
of deaths and 56 serious health events linked directly to energy drink
consumption <a href="http://www.cspinet.org/new/201406251.html">have been
reported by the Food and Drug Administration</a>. This may seem like a small
number, but consider the unreported cases of high blood pressure complications,
anxiety, cardio arrhythmia, and depression that have roots in over consumptions
of energy drinks.<br />
<br />
For a review of popular energy drinks by Consumer Reports <a href="http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine/2012/12/the-buzz-on-energy-drink-caffeine/index.htm">click
here</a>.<br />
<br />
High blood pressure affects the ability of the arteries to
open and close. When your blood pressure rises, the muscles in the artery wall
respond by pushing back harder. This enlarges the arterial muscles and makes
the artery walls thicker. Thicker arteries decrease the amount of blood that
can pass through the arteries. <span> </span>Over time,
high blood pressure leads to heart failure, kidney failure, stroke, dementia
and more. For a full list <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/high-blood-pressure/art-20045868">click
here</a>.<span> </span><br />
<br />
Depression associated with energy drink consumption is
caused by a rise in the brain chemical norepinephrine. As the nerepinephrine
increases, there are enhanced negative feelings, feelings of distrust, and
increasing the desire to fight or flee from unpleasant situations. In addition,
anxiety increases. “In previous research, we found that energy drink
consumption increased blood pressure in healthy young adults,” explained <a href="http://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-study-one-energy-drink-may-increase-heart-disease-risk-in-young-adults/">first
author and Mayo Clinic cardiology fellow Anna Svatikova</a>. “We now show that
the increases in blood pressure are accompanied by increases in norepinephrine,
a stress hormone chemical, and this could predispose an increased risk of cardiac
events — even in healthy people.”<br />
<br />
Heart rhythm problems (heart arrhythmias) occur when the
electrical impulses that coordinates your heartbeats do not work properly,
causing your heart to beat too fast, too slow or irregularly. The excess caffeine
and sugar in the energy drinks contribute to abnormal heart rhythm.<br />
<br />
Ask yourself if the energy drink is really worth the risk.
There are <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/05/29/health/energy-drinks-health-concerns-study-explainer/index.html">so
many healthier ways</a> to increase and sustain your energy. Practice getting
7-8 hours sleep each night, improve your diet my including lean protein and
smart carbs like almonds, cheese and Greek yogurt. While working, at home or on
the job, take a short walk (5-10 minutes) about every hour and a half. Take
naps when you can (there is nothing like a 20 minutes power nap.<br />
<br />
Get creative, get more energy and improve your overall
health by ditching the instant energy and focusing on renewable, sustainable
energy. <br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSudAFnZOtjNOF1gyNDcx8yM8eSdcMA-tZLLzIogiPwdgRzxDwumeoZW9ktLJsNSwApqPuVZKw8fYrnvOS5Yo-lr4WADkGeiY76jaNVMZn6vrxgPvLfKqv7g-iPot3qc43FjtUDtT4gZOM/s1024/energy+drink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia91xebePbt3QGgG0zbzaeJuV2TILxyR3rBBBBv1OJHY-mjzGSHgNhXfZRFqYv8P_eUbsiv7v0FRRnnpFGLtpEAmDM4Iao9psu6dAQaTj9iMgBMuXrgMINKNDHyjLtM9OwAagwNjIzhXDK/s1024/energy+drink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-71698187596244674322018-05-13T09:55:00.001-05:002020-06-09T19:00:45.604-05:00How to paste wax a hardwood floor<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I have learned how to paste wax an old hardwood floor. The
process will work for any floor. I put this together from twenty or so sites I
found when searching for methods of paste waxing floors. I learned the
difference in buffing, polishing, and cleaning the floor. This will save time
when you decide to paste wax your hardwood floor.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Buffing removes excess wax. Polishing makes the floor very
shiny. Cleaning pads remove smears, spots, scratches, and redistributes the
wax. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Since you are making the paste wax commitment, use a bonafide
household floor machine. I use a Koblenz Cleaning Machine. If you do not want
to use a machine, you can purchase buffing and polishing pads from a hardware
store. You can also use a car wax buffer/polisher.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEp4OHoN3O1_j9KpE1ZR7yadHhDGyKSVeO6BStnoHA-gCW9By_P5rgFHaHtPFgE6y0bYaiOefl60eQd-kS82Z6XbyF9ISzSQvhqhU49JmWBa1VcewzR-9e-LVWqhHVBp3xVi-n4Jhs9c5U/s1600/2018+paste+wax.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEp4OHoN3O1_j9KpE1ZR7yadHhDGyKSVeO6BStnoHA-gCW9By_P5rgFHaHtPFgE6y0bYaiOefl60eQd-kS82Z6XbyF9ISzSQvhqhU49JmWBa1VcewzR-9e-LVWqhHVBp3xVi-n4Jhs9c5U/s1600/2018+paste+wax.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Step 1</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Sweep the floor. Duh! Floor vacuums work best for pet hair.
If you do not have a floor vacuum use a micro fiber mop after sweeping. Spray
the micro fiber mop with Endust for easier cleaning.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Step 2</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Mop with a mixture of vinegar and water. Use one gallon of
water to one cup of cleaning vinegar. A sponge mop works best to control the
dampness on the hardwood floor.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Step 3</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Find an old rag or towel that is mostly lint free. Dampen
the rag. Start at the wall and apply the paste wax to the hardwood floor. Yes,
hands and knees. However, it goes fast. Wipe the floor with the wax, applying a
thin coat to the floor.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Step 4</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Let the paste wax dry. Depending on how thick the wax
coating, this should take 15 minutes to one half hour. You will be able to see
when the paste wax is dry because it will look cloudy and dull.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Step 5</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Buff the paste wax. I use a Koblenz Cleaning Machine I
picked up used. Because the buffing also picks up excess wax, it is prudent to
have a few buffing pads on hand.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Step 6</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Use a polishing pad or the polishing brushes. This will
further smooth the wax. I buff again after this because I am OCD and little
streaks and spots appear.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Some tips</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">If you are applying past wax on a floor with a decent polyurethane
finish, use less wax. If your floor is losing finish, you can apply a little
more. The finish will prevent the paste wax from sinking in, so you will need
some extra buffing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">If you cannot seem to buff out the streaks or spots, get the
cleaning pads for the machine. The cleaning pads are rougher, redistribute the
paste wax, and remove the spots. Buff again after the cleaning pads. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-79153784256529805902018-01-26T04:00:00.000-06:002020-06-09T19:02:50.494-05:00God cares for small prayers<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhvbFLJxUBAepjeQ37aYZYH_5gGYaODTqzQPuIEeBBKwGPKtIIReR3xxr12xN80jFUKzLgey-TMv1x9PcdUYaY7Ip2yNQvZMN6Mwpzl9vqf6DQVcGx74aXKxVJdaP6DfWqyh7YRPEB3eU_/s1600/small+things.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="840" data-original-width="1600" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhvbFLJxUBAepjeQ37aYZYH_5gGYaODTqzQPuIEeBBKwGPKtIIReR3xxr12xN80jFUKzLgey-TMv1x9PcdUYaY7Ip2yNQvZMN6Mwpzl9vqf6DQVcGx74aXKxVJdaP6DfWqyh7YRPEB3eU_/s320/small+things.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">God answered a small prayer for me today. I had a large box
of photo matte paper I had gotten from work. The paper was high quality, 4ft.
by 4 ft. I only wanted four sheets, but had to take the entire box. I had set
it outside with a big “FREE MATTE PAPER”. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">No one took it. The box fell over, was rained on, and too
heavy for me to bend and lift into my trashcan. Yesterday, as I thought about
how I would cut it down to get rid of it, I asked God to touch the heart of the
trash man to pick up the box for me.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">This morning, I heard the recycle truck. When I left for
work, I saw that the person had lifted, folded, and placed the box into one of
my trashcans.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I smiled, and thanked God. He really does care about even
the small details of my life. </span></div>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-73532192286046252762017-11-13T18:57:00.002-06:002020-06-09T19:03:46.310-05:00Aging's Smile<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_arhDUZTmpnEAV52broeJBJ2pZrEQDfPNTwv4FOj0Cu6ziCMS0Xl1jtbw7B_zDJcaf_-7WdBES9vt_sInIXQGi_zjB7vHcethDNtGVjoK-HuQvQAXfNbSF5MFeUIUiSc_U4yKHTOCaYRd/s1600/sawing+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1023" data-original-width="1023" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_arhDUZTmpnEAV52broeJBJ2pZrEQDfPNTwv4FOj0Cu6ziCMS0Xl1jtbw7B_zDJcaf_-7WdBES9vt_sInIXQGi_zjB7vHcethDNtGVjoK-HuQvQAXfNbSF5MFeUIUiSc_U4yKHTOCaYRd/s320/sawing+blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Aging is coveted by small children,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tall enough to ride, or walk, or simply reach.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then reaching seems easy and aging turns</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mastering math, catching a ball or boy, and beauty,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Aging is distracted by desire, dreams, goals,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lost in achieving, gaining, raising kids,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Regaining momentum in attainment, and watching babies</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Turn to tall children.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then somewhere in the mix, age becomes a distance,</div>
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Disregarded, and conversations skip.</div>
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Unseen, unknown, aging is creeping always on the young,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bending them into worn wisdom, advanced by small children.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cycling, aging, beauty, achievement, master, wisdom</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And a small sly smile.</div>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-79964915324434613132017-07-04T14:48:00.001-05:002021-09-17T20:09:57.170-05:00Yard work beats a trip to the gym<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Don’t worry if you can’t make a trip to the gym because of
yard work. Yard work burns calories and uses your abs, strengthens your arms,
and is a killer workout for your legs. Yard work provides a great workout, burns
lots of calories and increases muscle strength and definition. So mow, rake and
plant. You will get a great work out, and a sense of accomplishment at the same
time.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2sD6pUhMDf4w4WNalRhfchoaui3_IrFHNqISERoQjMOwId1XtwTva0OyMbdlXAkB9zXZQpQ6WG2H4iHPHHg0RQ3DI8Wm-IK-M_RTJO1l0i-FWetSimxiqA9WTi6AwuLvIIDOPPAQmHcg/s1600/mybackyard.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="322" data-original-width="400" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2sD6pUhMDf4w4WNalRhfchoaui3_IrFHNqISERoQjMOwId1XtwTva0OyMbdlXAkB9zXZQpQ6WG2H4iHPHHg0RQ3DI8Wm-IK-M_RTJO1l0i-FWetSimxiqA9WTi6AwuLvIIDOPPAQmHcg/s320/mybackyard.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
The internet exercise site Exrx has an excellent guide to
calculate the <a href="http://www.exrx.net/Calculators/Calories.html"><span style="color: blue;">calories
burned during yard work.</span></a> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Calculating
the calories burned in one hour doing heavy yard work (based on body weight and
number of minutes):</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Weight 125 pounds = 425 calories<br />
Weight 155 pounds = 527 calories<br />
Weight 200 pounds = 680 calories</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Heavy yard work burns 3.4 calories a minute (choose any
weight above; divide the calories burned for one hour (60 minutes) by the
weight. If you want to see your results instantly, look into a fitness tracker. The fitness tracker lets your monitor your heart rate and
view the calories burned as you work.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
So what is heavy yard work?</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Lawn mowing</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Mowing the lawn is equivalent to walking on the treadmill.
If you have a hilly yard, the workout is even better. Mowing uses the major
muscles in the upper body and legs. If you use a bagger on the mower, the trunk
and arms benefit from bag removal and emptying. If you rake and bag the mown
grass, you receive the same benefits as raking the yard.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Rake and clean the yard</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
During the early spring, raking up leaves and debris is
equivalent to a workout on a rowing machine. Raking uses the entire upper body,
the chests pectoral muscles, the shoulder muscles and the back muscles. Picking
up leaves and debris works the quads, the hips, and the buttocks.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Digging</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Digging with a shovel or a spade is equivalent lifting
weights. The digging action uses the quadriceps, hamstrings, calf muscles, the
buttocks, biceps, and triceps. Maintaining balance as you exert the muscles
provides a palates workout for the trunk.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Weeding and planting</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Planting and weeding is equivalent to a cross trainer, with
the added benefits of arm, shoulder and back muscles as you pull up deeply
rooted growth. Planting and weeding use the back, shoulder, and arm muscles, the
buttocks, and thigh muscles. Whether you kneel or squat to weed and plant, the
trunk muscles are engaged for balance.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Fun fact: If you are carrying and spreading bags of mulch or
top soil, the addition weight and action can burn 7 calories a minutes. </div>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-85247926230198041952017-06-10T18:46:00.001-05:002021-09-17T20:12:26.988-05:00Submission to God-What does this mean?<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaXaTY9QCwC6WiepP3H7RIjPj3R_ExHsELWBGbOJIMvBAgjY9OZizwVp0aTC13YtiRm9PxrNhlrHpRAKu3UE5hXMG6VtcYXnhZ4n7dcXuFoLRfp1DHgEUCAHoOvjYVN5twsC4JlSHcqm_i/s1600/Submitting+to+God.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="477" data-original-width="729" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaXaTY9QCwC6WiepP3H7RIjPj3R_ExHsELWBGbOJIMvBAgjY9OZizwVp0aTC13YtiRm9PxrNhlrHpRAKu3UE5hXMG6VtcYXnhZ4n7dcXuFoLRfp1DHgEUCAHoOvjYVN5twsC4JlSHcqm_i/s320/Submitting+to+God.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Submission to God </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Submission to God is an ongoing process in the Christian
walk. Submission means to come underneath God, to abdicate your thoughts,
plans, and ideas to God’s Word, and His plan for your life. This can be
confusing as we move through life, faced with choices and challenged by the
desires of our hearts.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">As a noun, submission is the condition of being submissive,
humble, or compliant; an act of submitting to the authority or control of
another. As a </span><a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/submitting"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri";">verb</span></a><span style="font-family: "calibri";">,
submission is to yield oneself to the authority or will of another; to permit
oneself to be subjected to something; to defer to or consent to abide by the
opinion or authority of another.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Submission is not a natural concept. We are taught to be
independent, think for ourselves, and rely upon our own resources. Submission
has negative connotations: giving in, backing down, servitude, and cringing.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Submission to God is first to trust God and learn that He is
loving, kind, and has a good plan for your life. As you grow in God, you begin
to understand His Word is not written to hurt you. God understands the human nature;
He has given wisdom in the Word to help us live well.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">As we come to understand God’s Word and trust Him, we begin
to see the opposition that exists in our hearts towards living a Christ
centered life. It is our natural desire to hurt someone who hurts us, but God
asks us to forgive. In our quest for success, we often look for ways to get gain
an advantage over another person, to promote ourselves, and contrive methods to
achieve our own ends.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">David, a man after God’s own heart, contrived a way to be
with a woman who was not his wife. Then, when she became pregnant, tried to
find a way out of the situation.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">God does not look for our strengths. God looks at our
hearts. 1 Samuel 16: 1-13 tells us how David was chosen to be Kind. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and
thought, “Surely the Lord’s anointed stands here before the Lord.” But the Lord
said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have
rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look
at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” Then Jesse called
Abinadab and had him pass in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, “The Lord has
not chosen this one either.” Jesse then had Shammah pass by, but Samuel said,
“Nor has the Lord chosen this one.” Jesse had seven of his sons pass before
Samuel, but Samuel said to him, “The Lord has not chosen these.”So he asked
Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?” “There is still the youngest,” Jesse
answered. “He is tending the sheep.” Samuel said, “Send for him; we will not
sit down until he arrives.” So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was
glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features. Then the
Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.”</i></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">What does this have to do with submission to God? David
trusted God and knew Him as his strength and his source. He accepted that God
had anointed him, and set out to learn to be a king. However, the power clouded
his judgment, and he carried out his own agenda.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">What is amazing is that when David was confronted with his
sin, his inner man immediately went to his knees. He was, in his inner most
being, submission to God. (Psalm</span><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> 51) What impressed me the most about David’s submission was verse 16: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> "</span>For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I
would give it."</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">God is not looking for us to perfect ourselves. He is
looking for hearts that are imperfect, yet willing to trust Him and try. God
will create smooth paths within us. He will reason with us, and show us the
wisdom in living a life modeling His Son Jesus. Submission is trusting God and
letting Him change our heart and our life.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Psalm 51:1-19 (ESV)</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love;
according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly
from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin! For I know my transgressions, and
my sin is ever before me.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil
in your sight, so that you may be justified in your words and blameless in your
judgment. Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin did my mother
conceive me. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being, and you
teach me wisdom in the secret heart. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean;
wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Let me hear joy and gladness; let the
bones that you have broken rejoice. Hide your face from my sins, and blot out
all my iniquities. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit
within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit
from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing
spirit.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will
return to you. Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, O God of my salvation,
and my tongue will sing aloud of your righteousness. O Lord, open my lips, and
my mouth will declare your praise.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it;
you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a
broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise. </span><span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Do good to Zion in your good pleasure; build up the walls of
Jerusalem; then will you delight in right sacrifices, in burnt offerings and
whole burnt offerings; then bulls will be offered on your altar.</span></div>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-4827290839699636482017-05-30T08:04:00.001-05:002021-09-17T20:13:16.888-05:00How to kill peppermint<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I planted peppermint in my garden several years ago. I watched
as it spread and devoured most of the other plants, and set out to kill the
peppermint. Peppermint is an invasive root hog, and I tried vinegar, salt, and
other methods. However, I did find one that worked quickly and killed the peppermint.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDiELyuwzIhXbF3DM22vdstmEZ039WbToFJyiaKGRRLAOjnjVV3lQevsehUA08JGFq-M8rjiHyowIpJfWTux_iR-vTnS56Nk-ruvCRdMvgKqY2xjV1eKngzPyz0OSFqiY7uRB2fge_pyU0/s1600/Dead+Peppermint.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1001" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDiELyuwzIhXbF3DM22vdstmEZ039WbToFJyiaKGRRLAOjnjVV3lQevsehUA08JGFq-M8rjiHyowIpJfWTux_iR-vTnS56Nk-ruvCRdMvgKqY2xjV1eKngzPyz0OSFqiY7uRB2fge_pyU0/s320/Dead+Peppermint.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">What is the best way to kill peppermint? Use </span>Roundup<span style="font-family: "calibri";">. I
worked as an accountant in Monsanto’s Agricultural division for 6 years. One of
my tasks was to account for Roundup, from the raw material to the finished
good. I learned about Roundup. Despite the claims of toxicity, Roundup is safe
to use as directed, does not live in the soil, and will kill peppermint.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">When using <strong>Roundup</strong>, wear garden gloves to protect against
minor drips. I usually wear sweatpants, but not always long sleeves. Don’t use
the spray when it is windy to avoid spray transfer to other garden plants. Wash
your hands well. I usually change my clothes after because I tend to get some
Roundup on my shirt and long pants. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Since the peppermint in my garden surrounds other plants, I
use the pump with a directed spray. I point the sprayer downward, focused on
the outer edge of the plant growth. Peppermint has an intricate root system, so
photosynthesis will transfer the plant killing chemicals of the Roundup to the
root system. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The picture above shows the peppermint surrounding Black-eyed
Susans. Notice that the outer portion of the peppermint is dying. The Roundup
will continue to work in the root system, but will not kill the Black-eyed
Susans. I use Roundup throughout my garden, around Russian Sage, Day Lilies,
and other plants.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Get rid of the peppermint in one summer using Roundup. It’s
a safe, sure way to stop the peppermint invasion. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-84428803781855608582017-03-25T14:46:00.003-05:002020-06-09T19:06:35.962-05:00Wicked HeartsThis is why we stay close to God and learn to love the world as He loves. For it is not the action of man but the heart of man that needs the grace of God.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQRM434FC-z982JINan-qF_mxToZHVfRCJz01UKKGKDc3I1e_i4LORWwOaD1e97IYWL4nsYcgnUHBpw_2tHURiL9I8vJCXJnNzFP2bnrtLQJ7AK63sNjBSgFnp2QUDQvLeqGcZZKB0y4Ni/s1600/wrath_by_koolsharky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQRM434FC-z982JINan-qF_mxToZHVfRCJz01UKKGKDc3I1e_i4LORWwOaD1e97IYWL4nsYcgnUHBpw_2tHURiL9I8vJCXJnNzFP2bnrtLQJ7AK63sNjBSgFnp2QUDQvLeqGcZZKB0y4Ni/s200/wrath_by_koolsharky.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Wayward wanton warlords<br />
Calmly board the planes<br />
To demonstrate a ritual<br />
And prove their true disdain.<br />
<br />
Treacherous, troubled tyrant<br />
Slipped calmly into school<br />
Fired anger into children<br />
Uncivilized and cool.<br />
<br />
Maleficent, malicious mother<br />
Captured children, one by one,<br />
And held them under water<br />
Until each life was done.<br />
<br />
Repellant, reprobate raper<br />
Chased the woman as she ran,<br />
Grabbed her by the collar,<br />
Left her dead upon the sand<br />
<br />
“Something wicked this way comes”<br />
A falling from the grace<br />
Tattered holy weave of man’s nature,<br />
Abhorrent,<br />
Void, the heart debased.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-65096552867505254102017-03-12T19:01:00.002-05:002020-06-09T19:07:32.341-05:00Women rule the world in whispers<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">All politics aside, women rule the world. It is not a rule
of dominance or dominion over men but a leadership of concepts and lifestyle
that starts at the cradle. The formative years of childhood are spent in the
arms of a mother. The mother imparts values to her child, a wisdom that
ingrains itself and forms the man or woman the child becomes.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-i_JTz_89JVrQRSCNAVNtFex0DtDQw0YX0VBYnKjIGtdwxCT3ThG9sRR1LkqMzMe4xlJaFd81YauekYStxlw998id9Banw8KBmhvpxx1s6jV-zbpVFFcOixJk6xQqUqvfKSHBFb0kA9XB/s1600/mother+child.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-i_JTz_89JVrQRSCNAVNtFex0DtDQw0YX0VBYnKjIGtdwxCT3ThG9sRR1LkqMzMe4xlJaFd81YauekYStxlw998id9Banw8KBmhvpxx1s6jV-zbpVFFcOixJk6xQqUqvfKSHBFb0kA9XB/s320/mother+child.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The word ‘rule’ can ruffle feathers. However, to rule means
to have a directive, to lead, to manage, and reach a decision. I feel compelled
to clarify that when women rule, it is in the social sense, the most powerful
element. Powerful because social norms determine how men and women relate and
respect others. Historically, societies were not ‘civilized’ until the female
voice of reason took the lead.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Women have the ability to change how society views women, men,
equality, justice, fairness, respect, education, and much more. When individual
women realize their potential to bring about social change, social change will
begin. Women can raise their sons to respect women as they respect themselves. Woman
can raise their daughters to respect themselves. Women can enable social
equality with just a whisper.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">When I see the horrific pictures on the internet showing
veiled women in chains, or veiled woman being buried, I understand that women do
not understand how powerful they are.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I read the values of the International Woman’s Day: Justice,
Dignity, Hope, Equality, Collaboration, Tenacity, Appreciation, Respect, Empathy,
and Forgiveness. These are the lullabies of women who move society forward. </span></div>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-83950052069005170442017-03-05T22:31:00.002-06:002020-06-09T19:08:13.684-05:00Wounds that bind us<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAFu5FqjMOKsKWaZValWFRV17tt3JET6b-L6i-jwZhbtOwMpFWUmV6Cmo9XDLOIO3doC08boOOdp-w32yc06t15rHU03TuH8nRIQ5X7SPpqQ6fnxki-MwGDR9ioWjJ6eQVtyiYy2tGzmv3/s1600/wounds-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAFu5FqjMOKsKWaZValWFRV17tt3JET6b-L6i-jwZhbtOwMpFWUmV6Cmo9XDLOIO3doC08boOOdp-w32yc06t15rHU03TuH8nRIQ5X7SPpqQ6fnxki-MwGDR9ioWjJ6eQVtyiYy2tGzmv3/s320/wounds-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">There is no wound so deep it can’t be mended</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">No relationship so shattered it cannot be restored</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The real devastation comes when embers</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Are selfishly discarded and ignored.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The fires of life grow dim within each season</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Prayerful tending now and then required.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">God has placed our hearts in careful motion</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Chosen for us parent, friend and child.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The body we are bound to fills a nation</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">But we are bound by borders less than these</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">To sharpen and refine our very nature</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">To build the Body up upon our knees.</span><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">So always we are free and we are fastened</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">To God and family, blood born, others found.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The choices that we make have lasting etchings</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">That only time reveals and heaven resounds</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">No one can separate us from God’s loving</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">And only we can leave His holy ground</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">So we are free to roam and chose our own path</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">But that does not disturb that we are bound.</span></div>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-56517568681866650982017-02-25T19:51:00.001-06:002020-06-09T20:36:58.469-05:00Follow your heart without fear<br />
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">To
follow your heart means to trust your instincts. The heart is the choicest, the
essential and most vital part of an idea or experience. To have heart is to
have the courage to follow your convictions. When a person follows the heart,
the way is sometimes contrary to what is expected. Others may say he is a fool,
or he is chasing a pipe dream. However, when you have a dream, and pursue it, you
are following our heart.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKTN0rKC4cX0RZuKFKTfw0021jjob6iSDL9VgbUam2bmKetDCbKUupGHZ-chZdiiQCNYctjt25pGH16s_ZG-sUeQfttCafENkvhGf3rdaz8p2uVD4Bp9inGRXB4h-FBmWIyp0Im4osLiWa/s1600/follow+your+heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKTN0rKC4cX0RZuKFKTfw0021jjob6iSDL9VgbUam2bmKetDCbKUupGHZ-chZdiiQCNYctjt25pGH16s_ZG-sUeQfttCafENkvhGf3rdaz8p2uVD4Bp9inGRXB4h-FBmWIyp0Im4osLiWa/s320/follow+your+heart.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">"If
a man does not keep pace with his companions perhaps it is because he hears a
different drummer. Let him step to the music he hears however measured and far
away." (Henry David Thoreau)</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">There
is an expression "the heart wants what the heart wants." This is
true, but the phrase is often only associated with the emotions. Emotions are
strong feelings, sometimes driven by love, and sometimes by intense anger. When
we follow our emotions, we do not always follow our heart. Sometimes the
feelings we have for another person pull us away from our dreams. Important
people in our lives may not understand, or have the patience to support us while
the dream becomes reality. They may argue with us, berate us or insist that it
is them or the dream.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">When
faced with decisions, there are often times of confusion and doubts. We look at
the pros and cons, weighing rewards and consequences. No matter how we turn the
decision or the situation, if we have no peace, we are not following the heart.
When we have no peace, it’s best to be silent. In the solitude of self, the
heart will whisper the right choice. It is important not to allow emotion or
desire to silence the truth our heart is telling us.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">"If
you can force your heart and nerve and sinew to serve your turn long after they
are one, and so hold on when there is nothing in you except the Will which says
to them: 'Hold on'. " (Rudyard Kipling)</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">So
how do we know the difference?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">If
your emotions are leading you to give up your dreams, you aren’t following your
heart.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">If
your motives are to please those you love, you aren’t following your heart.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">If
you are taking the easy way, you may not be following your heart.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Following
your heart takes courage and conviction. You may have to walk away from people
who are important to you. You may have to confront your shortcomings, and
determine in your heart to press on. Following your heart is not always easy,
but the reward at the end is worth it.</span></div>
penstruck.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423026561484846366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8330038340876532578.post-68050270254850411382017-02-19T13:16:00.003-06:002021-09-17T20:23:44.201-05:00Who is the holiest in God’s kingdom<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaPoh4Q5YzEUENVmBYAaf3ix0e1rGRskRGhUUsDOeCMjYjfuz9Pr8IHueJcCjg-tGsVw_bhZ2yXBV6wSae9weoR_FqNgh2yP2GawGyvKl9A5yAJYAJDsJrWHGU7MzCz7Z3BN3ld6K4ku7_/s1600/holiest.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaPoh4Q5YzEUENVmBYAaf3ix0e1rGRskRGhUUsDOeCMjYjfuz9Pr8IHueJcCjg-tGsVw_bhZ2yXBV6wSae9weoR_FqNgh2yP2GawGyvKl9A5yAJYAJDsJrWHGU7MzCz7Z3BN3ld6K4ku7_/s1600/holiest.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Who is the holiest in God’s kingdom? Is holiness what we do
or is it where the heart lies?</span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Salvation is a free gift from God, and all He
requires is our belief and submission. It is as simple as walking through an
open door, and as difficult as trying to get the locked door open. During the
average lifetime, everyday living bruises us, and causes us to lock down our
hearts</span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">. </span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Education introduces alternative thoughts on reality. Society promotes
self fulfillment and moral freedom. The truth is housed in shades of gray. </span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">My understanding of salvation is a level playing field.</span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">We
enter into God’s kingdom by accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior. God’s love was
always with us, and didn’t increase because we are now His child. The faith we
have was already measured out by God, and now becomes active. In God’s eyes
when we are saved we are as holy as we will ever be. </span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I have been in the Kingdom for more than 30 years. I have observed
many ‘movements’ within the body: the faith movements (name it and claim it),
the prosperity movement (honoring those who are well off more than those who
are not), and the judgment movement (those who have trouble and illness must be
secretly sinning).</span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">While faith is the substance of following Christ,
prosperity, or righteousness, is the strength of Christ in us, and judgment
exists within our personal relationship with Jesus. God is in control, and
these movements have passed away because they were man-made. </span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Yet within the individual groups of believers, some of these
ideas still exist. I met one woman who vehemently opposed Joyce Meyer, call her
a prosperity teacher. I tried to explain that the Word refers to prosperity as
righteousness. And this left me wondering: Why is it so hard for people to
believe that God wants us to prosper?</span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I have an illness called positional vertigo. I can get very
sick at times, and have to limit my movements. Why am I sharing this? Because I
met a woman in a denomination who walked up to me and asked me if I had aids
because she heard I was ill. I had never really spoken with her, and only known
her a short time.</span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I thought, off all the illnesses a person can have, why did
she leap to this one? I honestly can’t look her in the eye. Not because of her
question, but because of the heart if sprang from. Who thinks these things? How
can a person go immediately to one of the worst conditions in America just
because another person has an illness?</span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I have met believers who have many rules: don’t wear makeup,
don’t go to movies, don’t play cards, don’t drink, don’t smoke, don’t
fellowship with unbelievers (now that one blows me away, after all, are we only
suppose to shine the light on each other?).</span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I had a conversation with a young woman who had accepted
Jesus as Lord. She was thinking of turning back because she couldn’t conquer
all the ‘don’ts’ she was being told to do. I shared with her my own salvation
experience. I was told by a woman I couldn’t be saved because I was a hippie. I
thought about the statement, but knew in my innermost being that Jesus was real
and that I decided to follow Him. </span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I didn’t change overnight; it was years of
praying, listening, and being cooked in the silver pot, all the dross skimmed
off, then being cooked again.</span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Who is the holiest in heaven? God, Jesus, and the Holy
Spirit. No matter what we do as Christians during our journey on earth, we
cannot earn a higher place in heaven.</span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">We can draw closer to God always by
learning to let our nature, our thoughts, our judgment, and our hearts give
way to what God is doing in our lives. </span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">For me, that is deflecting my pride, keeping my tongue,
being submissive to the rules at work, doing good wherever I see to do it, and
handing my tendency for melancholy over to God every time I find it swimming in
my soul.</span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">It is remembering that we live in an imperfect world, shrouded in darkness,
and it is my ‘job’ to shine a lot in this darkness. My light is kindness (even
when I don’t feel kind), consistency in my actions and reactions (even when I
want to slap someone), smiling, and listening for the opportunity to encourage,
provide, and perform a good deed for someone. </span></div><div style="border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">And I do this for unbelievers.
Imagine that? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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