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... Send Me A Friend I had just been through great amounts of loss in my life. I lost an old friend, my sister, my father, and my health. I was now housebound due to my illness, I sat alone wondering, what's next? Not long after this, my friend Sue told ... that her husband was offered a new job in another state and they would be moving. soon. Sue and I had been friends through thick and thin since the fifth grade, and I would be missing our regular visits together greatly. I had other friends, but I seldom talked with them anymore. As they ... when they needed it most. Shortly thereafter, I received a second response to this much sought after request, when I was given the name of a friend's friend, to add to my writing ministry list. As I would send her writings, she sent back responses, telling me how they moved her. Before ...

... is a skinny guy-but don't be fooled by his trim appearance. He's aggressive on a basketball floor. (" The guy's all elbows !" says a friend who guarded Kurt once) and a fount of seemingly endless energy when pounding the drums for his church's worship band. Kurt's favorite fuel for all that energy is ... trial (and each day since it ), Kurt found him-self irresistibly drawn to the Bible. He read it and asked many questions of his Christian friends. During that time he discovered more about Jesus. Jesus Christ truly was the nourishment his spirit had been craving for so long." I felt an overwhelming ... attractive about these Christians. They all started spending time together after work, building friendships beyond McDonald's. One night they were relaxing, hanging out at a friend's house. The conversation turned to Jesus, and eventually one friend asked Kurt if he wanted to become a Christian. The hunger burned inside Kurt's soul. He ...

... At Least One Friend An old man turned to me and asked," How many friends have you ?"" Why, ten or twenty friends have I ," And I named off just a few. He smiled a knowing smile at me And sadly shook his head." How lucky you must be To have ... many friends ," he said." But think of what you're saying. There's so much that you don't know! A friend is just not someone To whom you say 'Hello !"" A friend's a tender shoulder On which to softly cry, A well to pour your troubles down And raise your spirits high. A ... a hand to pull you up From darkness and despair, When all your other so-called" friends" Have helped to put you there! A true friend is an ally Who can't be moved or bought, A voice to keep your name alive When others have forgot. But most of all a friend's a heart, ...

... hold you back, you're missing the good stuff. Life's short. If you don't look around once in a while you might miss it. A BEST FRIEND is like a four leaf clover, HARD TO FIND and LUCKY TO HAVE. Some people make the world SPECIAL just by being in it. BEST FRIENDS are ... Of Gold Love starts with a smile, grows with a kiss, and ends with a tear. Don't cry over anyone who won't cry over you Good friends are hard to find, harder to leave and impossible to forget. You can only go as far as you push. Actions speak louder than words. The ... of happiness wasted. Don't be angry. Good friends are like stars. You don't always see them, but you know they are always there. TRUE FRIENDSHIP" NEVER" ENDS. Friends are FOREVER. [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... most wounded moments. Do you have such a person? And are you such a person for someone else? As it has been said," A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words" If we are to find the kind ... you're what we talked about ," sobbed Carol. Children may not always confide in their parents. And adults may choose not to confide in many of their friends and family. But it is important to have someone with whom we can be emotionally intimate. Tragically, it has been estimated that the majority of men, ... hearts, we must also BE that kind of friend. And since good friends take time to grow, today is a good day to work on those friendships.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier-Copyright 2009-from Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... a close friendship with someone. As I approach a time in my life of complete uncertainty, my friends are my most precious asset" I had a friend who felt that way. I sat next to Hal's" death-bed" and thought about the fact that I had known him for over twenty years. Hal knew ... a lot of understanding, time and trust to gain a close friendship with someone. As I approach a time in my life of complete uncertainty, my friends are my most precious asset" I had a friend who felt that way. I sat next to Hal's" death-bed" and thought about the fact that I ... What Is Most Important Author Erynn Miller said:" It takes a lot of understanding, time and trust to gain a close friendship with someone. As I approach a time in my life of complete uncertainty, my friends are my most precious asset" I had a friend who felt that way. I sat ...

... believe... that we don't have to change friends if we understand that friends change. I believe... that no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that. I believe... that true friendship continues to ... I Believe I believe... that we don't have to change friends if we understand that friends change. I believe... that no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that. I believe... that ... friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love. I believe... that you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life. I believe... that it's taking me a long time to become the person I want to be. I ...

... gradually transformed into a crusty, black lump. After some moments, the widower turned to his companion and said," I get the message, my friend. I'll be over tomorrow evening" We cannot survive in any healthy way by ourselves. The leaf needs the branch. The branch needs the trunk. The ... so many years. He increasingly kept to himself. He quit socializing at work and returned straight home to an empty house. He turned down invitations from friends and co-workers. His leisure time was now spent watching television or working in his shop in the basement. His contact with people dwindled until friends became alarmed that ... as well as what we think we may be doing right. We use each other for a reality check, for support and, of course, for friendship. It's the only group in my life where I can be totally honest and know that they will accept me anyway. We meet only to listen to each ...

... It has been missing the happy bark of my dear beagle, Ody. After blessing my life with his love and devotion for over 13 years my old friend finally passed away last Fall. It has been tough going at times without him. I still at times look down and expect to see him curled up at ... bark to be let in from the backyard. I still at times reach into the box and get four dog treats instead of three. My other furry friends have showered me with extra affection and attention since he passed and I love them for it. Still, there is a place in my heart that will always ... ones. Thank God too for every moment you get with them. But also remember that your love won ’ t end here. Love like life and friendship is eternal.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2008 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] ...

... was in Sincere when he bought his wife a beautiful diamond ring for Christmas. Well, not quite a diamond, but it looked like one. A friend of his said," I thought she wanted one of those pretty 4-wheel drive vehicles" He shrugged his shoulders." She did. But where in the ... . I have, however, been in Sane. You have to be driven there. I have made several trips there, thanks to my family, friends and those where I have worked" I find myself in some interesting places-like Love. Have you ever been in Love? It can be a hard ... nothing you can't do" I heard a true story of a teenager who got a tattoo on her hip-a delicate little Japanese symbol. At her friend's house she showed it off. The friend's mother commented on it and the girl begged," Please don't tell my parents" The mother assured her that she ...

... the bad, you will also find it. If you want to be served, you must serve; if you want friends, you must be a friend. You are never more like God, than when you give. Nothing is lost or wasted if we learn from it. You should always mean what you ... around, but faith looks up. We're richer when we give, and poorer when we keep. Because of the cross of Christ, we can become friends of Christ. Amid the darkness of sin, the light of God's grace shines in. Enthusiasm for Christ is contagious-has anyone caught it from you? ... than all the acquaintances in the world. The truth only hurts when you don't tell it. Whatever you give you will get more of the same. Friendship is built on caring, sharing, and trust. You have to be your own person not a puppet on a string. Many people believe in what they ...

... can take care of you and love you and teach you to trust people again. Families aren't biological. I've learned-that no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that. I've learned-that it isn't always enough to be ... . I've learned-that two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally different. I've learned-that we don't have to change friends if we understand that friends change. Addendum-John 15: 12 (NKJ)" This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have ... that sometimes when I'm angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel. I've learned-that true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love. I've learned-that just because someone doesn't love you the way you want ...

... Great Happiness Not long ago I answered a telephone call from an old friend I'd not heard from for a long time." Hi, Steve ," he said." I just wanted to see how you're getting along" For whatever reason, our paths had simply not crossed for months. It was good to ... to let them know? George William Childs put it like this:" Do not keep the alabaster box of your love and friendship sealed up until your friends are dead. Fill their lives with sweetness. Speak approving, cheering words while their ears can hear them and while their hearts can be thrilled and made happier ... if we don't find ways to let them know? George William Childs put it like this:" Do not keep the alabaster box of your love and friendship sealed up until your friends are dead. Fill their lives with sweetness. Speak approving, cheering words while their ears can hear them and while their hearts can ...

... the right person to love or finding fault with those we already love, when instead we should be perfecting the love we give. Never abandon an old friend. You will never find one who can take his place. Friendship is like wine, it gets better as it grows older. May today there be peace ... you. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be." I believe that friends are quiet angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly" [Author Unknown-from 'E-Mail Ministry '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ... , when instead we should be perfecting the love we give. Never abandon an old friend. You will never find one who can take his place. Friendship is like wine, it gets better as it grows older. May today there be peace within you. May you trust God that you are exactly where you ...

... kindness, friendship, and loving spirit brightens the lives of those around her. This truth flows out of the behavior of my oldest boy who is a friend to the world and never met anyone he didn't like. This truth radiates from everything I watch my wife do as she makes the world a better place for ... family, friends, co-workers, and the many pets she rescues. This truth lights up my own life as I see again and again every good, kind, and loving thing I do come back to bless me with even greater joy. Don't be afraid to give then. Give your time, your energy, ... , hugs, and laughter light up the world around him in spite of his handicap. This truth glows from the life of my daughter whose kindness, friendship, and loving spirit brightens the lives of those around her. This truth flows out of the behavior of my oldest boy who is a friend to the world ...

... Catch Up Kindness -Back Roads The 11th'20th Commandments A Long Way Take Time Does Prayer Change Things What's Important To You Jesus Is Always With You Who's Your Best Friend To Begin With A Joyful Noise Sparkling Eyes Don't Miss A Moment Do Some Good Teacher Teachers In Disguise Just Suppose Lessons In Hugging The House Of 1000 Mirrors Steel ... Strength vs Courage Three Words Do You Know Who You Are The Eyes That See The Most Important Trip You May Ever Take Whoa When You're Feeling Down Good Friends -Medicine The Beauty Way Keeping Hope Alive Letting Your Soul Walk You Childern Are Eyes In A Crowd Map For The Journery The Bassinet Homemade Happiness On Monday Beatitudes For ... The Most Of Life No Future In The Past A Few Simple Secrets The Blood Whats A Dime Worth Alphabets Of Happiness Today Stolen Checks -Stupidity Invitation ABC's Of Friendship Big Boys Do Cry Children Learn What They Live A Thousand Butterflies Passionate Living Beatitudes For SAHMs-01 A Babies Unconditional Love Finding A Way To Help Thanksgiving Prayer To Believe ...

... Appreciation Archibald Campbell Was A Nobody Are You Waiting To Be Called As Old As I Use To Be As You Go Through Life Asking Forgiveness At Least One Friend Atmosphere And Attitude Attitude (To Be Really Happy) Attitude Attracting People To You Autumn Leaves Autumn Of Our Lives Awe -Fear And Love Baby Jesus Grows Back To ... Footsteps To Live By For Closeness TRAVEL For Moms -365 Tips Forever Gifts Forgiven -Forever Forgiveness Forgiving Quickly Forgotten Dog's Christmas Formula For A Successful Life Four -Legged Comedians Friends Friendship -You're Important To Me Friendship Future Plans I Have For Travel Game Anyone Can Play Garbage Truck Genie In The Lamp Gentleness And Hugs Getting Along Better Getting It ... 15 Minutes 19 Horses 21 Things To Remember 23rd Psalm Message 365 Tips For Mom's 3 Dimes 4 Part Message About Wrong'right Way To Comfort 5 Seconds ABC's Of Friendship A B C DreamBusters -DreamBuilders God's GPS Mothers Do It All A Babies Unconditional Love A Better Life A Better Prayer A Better Way To Live A Bicycle Built For ...

... Us Never Forget One Leaf Real Liberation Love Without Measure Making Those Obstacles Vanish Attracting People To You A Laughing Matter And It Came To Pass Your Own Best Friend You Were Meant For The Skies Wealth Of Wisdom Will You Be Ready Web Of Love Volunteer Victims Three Keys To Successful Living The Meaning Of Success The Beauty Way ... Need Each Other Shoveling Snow How's Your Vision A Special Thanks What's Cooking To Begin With Precious Moments A Closet Full Of Coats What I've Learned Sail On Good Friends -Medicine Circles Of Kindness Dogs Life Wise Man -The Pearl Happy Fall To You A Heavenly Person Bringing Harmony To Discord Kindness -Back Roads I've Come To Help What's Waiting ... Love Fathers And Children Walking The Path Jigsaw Puzzle Wisdom One Glad Dad A Smiling Face Buttercups Do Some Good Strength vs Courage My Dad Happy Moments ABC's Of Friendship Love In The Home Living A Life That Matters Looks Can Be Deceiving Day One Or Day Two Learn From Seeing Angels Spiritual Vitamins A To Z Let Your Soul ...

... unloaded the moving van into our little house, I said, 'Darling, this is your and my little world"" And I suppose ," wondered his friend," that you've lived happily ever after ?"" We've been fighting for the world's championship ever since ," he said. That must have been the same couple ... if left unattended, can hurt a relationship as much as the big ones. That, too, is basic. And remember that love between individuals-friends or family-is the most precious possession we humans can hope to attain. Above all, other people should be cherished. It's basic-all of it ... of us dead tonight, then this marriage would have peace at last .and I could go live with my sister" All relationships experience conflict. Marriages, friendships, parents and children. But too many unfortunate souls, like this couple, seem to be unable to resolve their differences. Their relationship dries up, becomes ...

... Simple Friend vs. Real Friend A Simple Friend has never seen you cry. A Real Friend has shoulders soggy from your tears. A Simple Friend doesn't know your parent's first names. A Real Friend has their phone numbers in his / her address book. A Simple Friend brings a bottle of wine to your party. A Real Friend comes early to help you cook and stays late to help you clean-up. A Simple Friend hates it when you call after he / ... Simple Friend wonders about your romantic history. A Real Friend could blackmail you with it. A Simple Friend, when visiting, acts like a guest. A Real Friend opens your refrigerator and helps himself. A Simple Friend thinks the friendship is over when you have an argument. A Real Friend knows that it's not a friendship until after you've had a fight. A Simple Friend expects you to always be there for them. A Real Friend expects to always be there for ...

... Friends. In kindergarten your idea of a good friend was the person who let you have the red crayon when all that was left was the ugly black one. In first grade your idea of a good friend was the person who went to the bathroom with you and held your hand as you walked through the scary halls. In second grade your idea of a good friend was the person who helped you stand up to the class bully. In third grade your idea ... Friends. In kindergarten your idea of a good friend was the person who let you have the red crayon when all that was left was the ugly black one. In first grade your idea of a good friend was the person who went to the bathroom with you and held your hand as you walked through the scary halls. In second grade your idea of a good friend was the person who helped you stand up to the class bully. In third grade your idea ...

... You're My Friend THIS WAS SENT TO YOU TO LET YOU KNOW YOU'RE MY FRIEND! Please remember to" FORWARD" if you want the graphic to show up." REPLYING" seems to cancel out the graphic when it is sent on. Pass this message on to at least 5 people within the hour of receiving this rose. After you do, make a wish. If you have passed it on, you will have full filled His commandment to:" Love ... beside me you stand, beside me you walk, you're there to listen, you're there to talk, with happiness, with smiles, through pain and tears, I know you'll be there, throughout the years! You're all good friends to me, and I am truly grateful to you. Forward this to all your friends on-line to show them you are friends. If you send this to: person-you are lonely. people-you need more friends. people ...

... Friendship Sometimes in life, You find a special friend, Someone who changes your life Just by being a part of it Someone who makes you laugh Until you can't stop Someone who makes you believe That there really is good in the world Someone who convinces you that There really is an unlocked door Just waiting for you to open it. This is a Forever Friendship When you're down, And the world seems dark and empty, Your forever friend lifts you up in spirit ... Friendship Sometimes in life, You find a special friend, Someone who changes your life Just by being a part of it Someone who makes you laugh Until you can't stop Someone who makes you believe That there really is good in the world Someone who convinces you that There really is an unlocked door Just waiting for you to open it. This is a Forever Friendship When you're down, And the world seems dark and empty, Your forever friend lifts you up in spirit ...

... Who's Your Best Friend? Former prisoner James Knapp confessed to police that he'd robbed two stores in Oklahoma, because he missed his old cell mates. Police said they'd see if James could be reunited with his old friends. I think Mr. Knapp may have expressed something important, however. Friends, wherever we find them, are absolutely necessary. But do you know who your best friend is? Automaker Henry Ford was having lunch with a man, when he suddenly ... the man that very question." Who is your best friend ?" Ford asked. The man hesitated and Ford went on." I'll tell you who your best friend is ," he said. Then he wrote this sentence for the man to read:" Your best friend is he who brings out the best that is within you" Our best friends are those who do more than simply like us. They also believe in us. They support us but, occasionally, ...

... Learn To Write In The Sand A story tells that two friends were walking through the desert. At a specific point of the journey, they had an argument, and one friend slapped the other one in the face. The one, who got slapped, was hurt, but without anything to say, he wrote in the sand:" TODAY, MY BEST FRIEND SLAPPED ME IN THE FACE" They kept on walking, until they found an oasis, where they ... Learn To Write In The Sand A story tells that two friends were walking through the desert. At a specific point of the journey, they had an argument, and one friend slapped the other one in the face. The one, who got slapped, was hurt, but without anything to say, he wrote in the sand:" TODAY, MY BEST FRIEND SLAPPED ME IN THE FACE" They kept on walking, until they found an oasis, where they ...

... Good Friends Are Good Medicine Our news is constantly filled with the reality of death and dying. And each of us, if we live long enough, experiences the loss of persons we loved. Children ages eight through ten were asked what they thought about death, and these are some of their answers:" When you die, God takes care of you like your mother did when you were alive-only God doesn't yell at you all the time" (Beth ... to Bonham, Texas for medical tests. Some wondered why he did not stay in Washington D. C. where there were excellent medical facilities-probably some of the best in the world. His answer was a beautiful tribute to friendship:" Bonham is a place where people know it when you're sick, and where they care when you die" No one wants to go through difficult times alone. So Rayburn traded the best of medical technology for the closeness of loving ...

... , but it wasn't. Turning as if to go, he retraced his steps back to one of his bed-ridden friends, and sat down for a visit. But the visit had no words. He just sat there, while his friend held out her hand to him. She knew he understood. Although she couldn't really say the words, Uncle Bill knew that what she would like to have said were spoken only by her thoughts:" Come sit with me, friend ... come to visit them. What matters to them is that you are there. I remember, when we were looking after my uncle Bill a few years ago, that weekly he would want us to take him to visit his old friends in the nursing home that he had been in before we came onto the scene. At his home, where he now was since we had come to care for him, he had a beautiful flower garden. He would always have us ...

... a need to feel connected to other people. And it was a need that could not be met by a stamp machine. When Harry Truman was thrust into the U.S. presidency at the death of Franklin Roosevelt, a colleague and friend-Congressman Sam Rayburn of Bonham, Texas-gave Truman some fatherly advice. Rayburn said," Harry, from here on out, you're going to have lots of people around you. They'll try to put a wall around you and ... Your Valuable Friends I heard a story about an older woman who stood in line at the Post Office. She struck up a conversation with a young man next to her. He noticed that she had no packages to mail, and asked why she was standing in line. She said that she just needed a few stamps." Ma'am, you must be tired standing here. Did you know there's a stamp machine over there in the corner ?" He pointed to the ...

... Man's Best Friend My dog is wonderful. He is always glad to see me, loves me no matter what, invites me into his life regardless of my mood and is a great listener. He cheers me when I am down, lifts me up and makes me laugh. There's an unconditional love between people and dogs that's close to heaven. Maybe it was a deliberate move on behalf of The Creator. Nothing was by" mistake" Let's reverse the letters in ... often fail to recognize this especially when we are overburdened by the trials of life. But, we feel bits and pieces of His love when we experience the warmth of a child's smile, a hug from someone we love or the friendship and comfort of a pet. But, the same comfort and joy you derive from looking at a beautiful sunset, snuggling up with your dog, sharing the love of your family or that one special person in your life, are only ...

... I Hope You Dance... This was written by an 83-year-old woman to her friend.*The last line says it all.*Dear Bertha, I'm reading more and dusting less. I'm sitting in the yard and admiring the view without fussing about the weeds in the garden. I'm spending more time with my family and friends and less time working. Whenever possible, life should be a pattern of experiences to savor, not to endure. I'm trying to ... these moments now and cherish them. I'm not" saving" anything; we use our good china and crystal for every special event such as losing a pound, getting the sink unstopped, or the first Amaryllis blossom. I wear my good blazer to the market. My theory is if I look prosperous, I can shell out $28.49 for one small bag of groceries. I'm not saving my good perfume for special parties, but wearing it for clerks in the hardware ...

... can't count how many times people have uttered, while shaking their heads in obvious disappointment," just don't know what is with teenagers today" The other day I was in my car on my way to the farmers market with my friend Jan, when we passed two teens standing by the side of the road with a car wash sign. My car was filthy and my heart was full, so I pulled over. There were teenagers everywhere. There was a group directing ... As sponges were wiped over every square inch of my dirty car, I sat enjoying the little water battles and the many silent scenarios that were so obviously taking place. I couldn't help but wonder how many crushes, how many new friendships and how many little insecurities were in the air on this beautiful Saturday afternoon. I was amazed at how forty to fifty teenagers had devoted their Saturday to washing cars, and I was curious what their motivation might be. At the end ...

... need to stay close to a teacher when you are at recess or in line to go into school" said Edie's mom." If the girls start to pick on you, tell them," I'd really like to be your friend Are you brave enough to do that ?" Edie's mother asked." The Lord asks us to be kind to our enemies, let's see what happens, okay? The tiny girl perked up, and with a smile, looked at her ... and one of the girls said," Okay, Edie, we give up, we'll be your friend" Edie and her mom thanked the Lord for His faithfulness. A short time later, as the girls were trying to become friends, Edie asked the teacher if she could sit at a table with these girls in the classroom. She had noticed that they were disruptive because they didn't understand the lessons. Edie became their tutor. Toward the end of the school year ...

... Paradise Within My good friend and neighbor is dying. She has battled more health problems through the years than anyone should have to endure. Now as she approaches her 57th birthday she knows that it will probably be her last. She has started giving away a lot of her things so her loving husband won ’ t be stuck with her" Junk" as she says. She has already given me several books, containers, clothes for my daughter, and a beautiful ... shirt to add to my collection. She has given all of us around her much more than just her stuff, though. She has also given us her friendship, her kindness, and her joyous smile. She has given us her wit, wisdom, and sweet laughter. She has given us her shining spirit that has made all of our lives so much brighter. When my daughter turned 19 my friend made her a red velvet cake and talked with her about what ...

... Socrates Triple Filter Test In ancient Greece, Socrates was reputed to hold knowledge in high esteem. One day an acquaintance met the great philosopher and said," Do you know what I just heard about your friend ?" Hold on a minute ," Socrates replied." Before telling me anything, I'd like you to pass a little test. It's called the Triple Filter Test" Triple filter ?" That's right ," Socrates continued." Before you talk to me about my friend ... ," concluded Socrates," if what you want to tell me is neither true nor good nor even useful, why tell it to me at all ?" This is why Socrates was a great philosopher & held in such high esteem. Friends, use this triple filter each time you hear loose talk about any of your near & dear friends. [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... chocolate. Road trips with friends. Swinging on swings. Making eye contact with a cute stranger. Making chocolate chip cookies. Having your friends send you home-made cookies. Holding hands with someone you care about. Running into an old friend and realising that some things (good or bad) never change. Watching the expression on someone's face as they open a much desired present from you. Watching the sunrise. Getting out of bed every morning and being grateful for another beautiful ... your coat from last winter. Laughing at yourself. Midnight phone calls that last for hours. Running through sprinklers. Laughing for absolutely no reason at all. Having someone tell you that you're beautiful. Laughing at an inside joke. Friends. Accidentally overhearing someone say something nice about you. Waking up and realising you still have a few hours left to sleep. Your first kiss (either the very first or with a new partner). Making new friends or spending time ...

... Investments I have a friend who is a rich investor. He doesn ’ t wear thousand dollar suits, however. I have never seen him in anything but old, work shirts and blue jeans. He doesn ’ t drive an expensive car either. I doubt if he has ever even owned a new car. He doesn ’ t live in some fancy mansion on a hill. His house is old and his furniture is worn, but that doesn ’ t bother ... every chance that I get. There is no risk involved either. Henry David Thoreau said," Goodness is the only investment that never fails" Invest in some goodness today then. Help a neighbor. Share some laughter with your friends. Give a smile to everyone you meet. Take your wealth of love, joy, and oneness with God and invest it in everything you do. I guarantee you that the return on your investments will be incredible and your compound interest ...

... They smile when they want to scream. They sing when they want to cry. They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous. Women wait by the phone for a" safe at home call" from a friend after a snowy drive home. Women have special qualities about them. They volunteer for good causes. They are pink ladies in hospitals, they bring food to shut ins. They are childcare workers, executives, attorneys, stay-at-home ... are honest, loyal, and forgiving. They are smart, knowing that knowledge is power. But they still know how to use their softer side to make a point. Women want to be the best for their family, their friends, and themselves. They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards. They are happy when they hear about a birth or a new marriage. Their hearts break when a friend dies. They have sorrow at the ...

... love And since they're so important Place them up above But leave the box wide open So all can see inside To learn what makes a friendship work From the box you built with pride And in it they'll see your face, my friend Because you're the most important item of them all. [Author Unknown-from Rubal Jain 'Friendship Quotes ' (rubalj @yahoo.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ... Friendship-You're Important To Me Into a box of friendship To insure that it is strong First a layer of respect On the bottom does belong Then to the sides attach In the corners where they meet Several anchors full of trust Devoid of all deceit The height of friendship can be measured By the sides of four So make them all a larger cut And the box will hold much more Now fill it up with courtesy Honor and esteem Understanding, sympathy And passion for a ...

... A Gift of Giving Looking forward to Christmas 1995, to me, described a paradox. How can one enjoy Christmas when their loving spouse recently passed away from cancer, and yet Christmas is a time for celebration. I had a friend, recently divorced, who was going through his first Christmas without his children that he loved so dearly. I called my friend and invited him over to my house for Christmas. He didn't seem overly thrilled, but had nothing else to ... . I did the same for another divorced person who had a day without family or friends. I told them to dress nice but withheld my plans from them. The three of us, at my house, made Christmas canes from pipe cleaners, and after an hour I told my friends to get in my van, as I had a surprise for them. So off we went. First stop, a nursing home, left few dry eyes. We visited the ones ...

... is! Blame it on three friends, who last week sent me three chocolate links .one link daring to tell me how to stop my cravings, and another link delighting to say it was good medicine for my health! The third friend just decided to send me the BROWNIE link -what a friend! Now let's get real about my chocolate habit .and let's chart the progression! I LIKE IT!-Just a thought-nudger, 'cause a friend, a TV commercial, a magazine ... Confessions Of A Chocoholic! I am a chocoholic. I know it, my friends know it, now YOU know it -and Choco Anonymous should be very happy with my complete confession. I've taken the first step on the road to recovery! OK, if you REALLY know me, you know I don't give up my chocolate THAT easy -and that somewhere, amidst the drippings and delight of my hilarious habit, there would be a devotional. There is! Blame it ...

... hunters who were out in the woods when one of them collapsed. He didn't seem to be breathing and his eyes were glazed. The other pulled out his phone and called emergency services. He gasped to the operator:" My friend is dead! What can I do ?" The operator in a calm, soothing voices replied:" Take it easy. I can help. First, let's make sure he's dead" There was a silence, then a shot was heard ... Back on the phone, the hunter said," Ok, now what ?" With friends like that. On the other hand, have you ever wanted to help but didn't know what to do? A friend once told me a beautiful story of how ordinary people found a simple way to help. He was enjoying the scenic view atop Casper Mountain, a favorite spot for visitors to Casper, Wyoming (USA). Even in the summer it is cool on top of ...

... ," Well my mom always says just find one thing good in the day. That's always our assignment at the end of the day. Sometimes it's a pain, but usually there's something that I can be thankful for" Her friend murmured in agreement. She too had a parent that cared. The bus rattled on, stopping and starting. Stopping and starting. The girls turned to talk to a few friends. They listened intently, nodding in understanding. They were ... What's the point mom? You talk to me about compassion and loving people. What is there to love ?" My heart broke at his word as his torment raged. I gently asked if he felt alone with this or did his friends feel the same way? His eyes were pitiful in his answer." Oh, everyone is the same. I even have two friends at school who have tried to slit their wrists and their parents don't even know it! They don't ...

... Words To Live By I sat next to the bed of old man, a friend for over twenty years, and held his hand. Hal was dying. We both knew these next few days would be his last. We spent time reminiscing about his long and fruitful career as a church pastor. We talked about old friends. We chatted about his family. And I listened as he offered sage wisdom and advice to a member of a" younger generation" At ... lull in the conversation, Hal seemed to carefully consider what he was about to say next. Then he squeezed my hand, gazed intently into my eyes and whispered, just loud enough for me to hear," Nothing is more important than relationships" I knew that this was somehow near the pinnacle of his life's learnings. As he considered all of his experiences-personal, professional, spiritual and family, this one ultimate observation surfaced above the rest:" Nothing is ...

... don't like precipices. When I am on the edge of a cliff, my instincts are to lie down and hug the mountain, to become one with it, not to lean away from it! But that was what my good friend was telling me to do. I looked at him real hard. Was there any reason, any reason at all, that I should not trust him? I certainly hoped not! So for a moment, based solely on what I ... Stepping Out In Faith" In 1988, three friends and l climbed Mount Lyell, the highest peak in Yosemite National Park. Two of us were experienced mountaineers. I was not one of the experienced two. Our base camp was less than 2, 000 feet from the peak, but the climb to the top and back was to take the better part of a day, due in large part to the difficulty of the glacier one must cross to get to the ...

... all you can be. This confidence will give you the power to love outside yourself. Love is not love until it is given away. To love is to honor God. To begin with. friendship If you want to have friends, be one. Sometimes friendship, like love, appears one sided. Sometimes people need more than they give. Trust that in doing for another the act is the gift you give yourself. To begin with. the Present Where you ... by accepting who you are and all you can be. This confidence will give you the power to love outside yourself. Love is not love until it is given away. To love is to honor God. To begin with. friendship If you want to have friends, be one. Sometimes friendship, like love, appears one sided. Sometimes people need more than they give. Trust that in doing for another the act is the gift you give yourself. To begin ...

... can mend all broken hearts. You just have to give him all the pieces. A person who asks a question might be a fool for five minutes, but a person who doesn't ask, is a fool forever. A best friend is like a four leaf clover. hard to find, and lucky to have. A friend is someone who reaches for your hand but touches your heart. A coincidence is when God performs a miracle, and decides to remain anonymous. ... and 'givers ' win. Life's precious moments don't have value, unless they are shared. If you don't start, it's certain you won't arrive. We often fear the thing we want the most. Everyone hears what you say. Friends listen to what you have to say. Best friends listen to what you don't say! Yesterday was the deadline for all complaints. Look for opportunities .not guarantees. Life is what's coming .not what was. Success is getting up one more ...

... Doug Coe Testimony Doug Coe's friend, Bob Hunter, a new Christian, asked" Do you really believe what the Bible says about moving mountains when we pray ?" Doug thought about it and answered," Sure !" Bob was incredulous." Do you mean to say that if I prayed for a mountain to move, it would move ?" Doug responded," Let me put it this way. I not only believe it, I'll make you a $500 bet ... a little embarrassed but told of the bet with Doug. She invited him to return with her in a few days to visit the orphanage, and he went. He was so touched, that when he got home he and some friends sent toys and clothing. A week later he received a call from the lady at the orphanage." The children want to give you a special presentation if you will visit again. Can you come ?" He went. Following the heartwarming ...

... are generous with praise, often undeserved. They know what it's like to be unappreciated. An over 40 woman has the self-assurance to introduce you to her women friends. A younger woman with a man will often ignore even her best friend because she doesn't trust the guy with other women. An over 40 woman couldn't care less if you're attracted to her friends because she knows her friends won't betray her. Women get psychic as they age. You never have to confess your ... you if they think they can get away with it. Over 40 women are generous with praise, often undeserved. They know what it's like to be unappreciated. An over 40 woman has the self-assurance to introduce you to her women friends. A younger woman with a man will often ignore even her best friend because she doesn't trust the guy with other women. An over 40 woman couldn't care less if you're attracted to her friends because she knows her friends won't betray her ...

... stove and stick your tongue on a frozen flagpole. I hope you get sick when someone blows cigar smoke in your face. I don't care if you try beer once, but I hope you don't like it. And if a friend offers you dope or a joint, I hope you realize he is not your friend. I sure hope you make time to sit on a porch with your grandpa and go fishing with your uncle. May you feel sorrow at a funeral ... because he's scared, I hope you let him. When you want to see a Disney movie and your little brother wants to tag along, I hope you'll let him. I hope you have to walk uphill to school with your friends and that you live in a town where you can do it safely. On rainy days when you have to catch a ride I hope your driver doesn't have to drop you two blocks away so you won't be seen riding with someone as ...

... Sail On My friend and neighbor gave me a book recently. It is called Parables From The Sea and was written by Robbins Wolcott Barstow. What amazed me about it was that in the first few pages I found a paragraph that describes my friend perfectly. It goes:" I often think of the way some people are always leaving trails of light and gladness as they sail on through life. There must be a great many who do for I know a lot ... joyous horizon once again. There were my two brothers and three children who taught me how to find the joy in life even on the fiercest days when the waves crashed against my ship. There were my teachers, neighbors, and friends who showed me the many ways to steer my boat into the peaceful harbors of love and happiness that life gives us. Each and everyone of these people taught me a little more about sailing the ship of my life. Each and everyone ...

... worst in them, but in general, there is nothing more selfless, loving or patient than a dog. Mistreat it and it comes back to you anyway. Ignore it and it never gives up hope that you will be its friend again. Make it wait days to go play, and it will still be ready. It offers you friendship and companionship and in return asks only for food, water and an occasional scratch behind the ears. Why would God bother to ... such a creature? I suppose that if dogs were like people they would eventually give up on us. but they never do. A dog ’ s love is almost impossible to destroy, because it ’ s not a love you earn; it ’ s simply a love you are given. In other words, dogs love unconditionally. Unconditional love; unending patience; faithfulness to the very end. Do you suppose, just perhaps, that God made dogs to show us ...

... we had everything. Before long we were ready to meet up with our friends. We met them and through a series of events we won't get into, we all drove together. Her three sons, my three sons, my friend and I all piled into the mini-van and headed to our destination. Although the boys ages varied from 2 to 10 years old, we all had one thing in common-we had never been fishing without the daddies. I didn't expect ... vigor. The oldest set himself in the garage and got the gear ready. It was already near 90 degrees but there he sat in the garage making sure we had everything. Before long we were ready to meet up with our friends. We met them and through a series of events we won't get into, we all drove together. Her three sons, my three sons, my friend and I all piled into the mini-van and headed to our destination. Although the ...

... ?" To gain respect for others, even those you may dislike, ask yourself" What do I respect about them ?" The fourth secret? the power of FRIENDSHIP. To find a true love, you must first find a true friend. Love does not consist of gazing into each other's eyes, but rather looking outward together in the same direction. To love someone completely you must love them for who they are, not what they look like. Friendship is the soil ... begin to gain self-respect ask yourself," What do I respect about myself ?" To gain respect for others, even those you may dislike, ask yourself" What do I respect about them ?" The fourth secret? the power of FRIENDSHIP. To find a true love, you must first find a true friend. Love does not consist of gazing into each other's eyes, but rather looking outward together in the same direction. To love someone completely you must love them for ...

... snack if we wanted. We searched the kitchen but there was nothing but empty shelves. I was shocked. I had never seen a house with no food in it before. Finally I heard," Want some crackers ?" My friend had found half a box of crackers and a peanut butter jar with a tiny bit left in it. He told me not to worry. His mom was getting paid soon and would fill the shelves again. Still, I didn ’ ... those visits on the day of our big meal, I met a new boy in the neighborhood while playing outside. His mom and he had just moved into town after his dad had left them. Like most young boys we became friends right away and spent the rest of the afternoon playing and talking. After we were pretty worn out from all of our adventures he invited me over to his home. It was older house that had seen better days. He said his ...

... I remember reading a story once about a wealthy businessman who over the years of his travels had formed a friendship with a Native American. This pair in spite of their differences remained close and after many years the businessman finally convinced his friend to visit him in the city where he lived. As they were walking down the busy streets full of noise, traffic, and people the Native American suddenly stopped, walked into an alley, and bent down over a small plant growing ... What Are You Listening For I remember reading a story once about a wealthy businessman who over the years of his travels had formed a friendship with a Native American. This pair in spite of their differences remained close and after many years the businessman finally convinced his friend to visit him in the city where he lived. As they were walking down the busy streets full of noise, traffic, and people the Native American suddenly stopped, walked into an alley, and bent ...

... I want to fill my mind with a detailed catalogue of past pain? Better to remember the times they brought me joy or love or feelings of warmth. Unfortunately, even those wonderful and magical moments too easily fade away. A friend of Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, asked her about a particular traumatic event in her life. Miss Barton seemed perplexed." Can't you remember ?" the friend prodded. Clara Barton replied," I distinctly remember forgetting ... the past" The past is to be remembered-how else will we learn from it and keep from repeating it? But why would I want to remember every time I felt hurt because of my spouse, my children, my friends, my boss or anybody else? Why would I want to fill my mind with a detailed catalogue of past pain? Better to remember the times they brought me joy or love or feelings of warmth. Unfortunately, even those wonderful and ...

... Coincidence or God?" At first laying down, as a fact fundamental, that nothing with God can be accidental" -Longfellow A friend and I were discussing miracles. It is interesting to note how some people, when faced with a miraculous situation, interpret the events as nothing more than pure coincidence. While events that result from pure chance may occur, it is an injustice to God to chalk up all miraculous events as such. In my own life, especially ... a younger, single woman, there were times that I needed a virtual miracle to pull me out of a desperate situation. When these prayers were answered, some of my friends rolled their eyes, insisting the only astounding thing to happen was that good luck had fallen my way. However, deep in my heart, I knew the miraculous truth. I had no tangible evidence to prove that God had His hand in these events. I'm certain that even if God did ...

... the local food drive. I have seen them in my community where every car that breaks down will have three others stop to help. I have seen them in the lives of my friends as well. There is my wheelchair bound friend who spends hours each day sending out inspirational messages on the internet. There is my teacher friend who lost first her sight and then her job but now dedicates her life to volunteer work and bringing joy to people who are homebound. There ... , who still buy something extra to donate to the local food drive. I have seen them in my community where every car that breaks down will have three others stop to help. I have seen them in the lives of my friends as well. There is my wheelchair bound friend who spends hours each day sending out inspirational messages on the internet. There is my teacher friend who lost first her sight and then her job but now dedicates her life to volunteer work and ...

... interest, ask them about themselves. That way you will always have plenty to talk about. It's important to make them feel important. If you want friends, show an interest in people around you. No one is without a friend who knows how to be a friend. And if you want to take it to the next level, treat each person you are with as if they are the most significant person in your life at that moment. That is making the ... easy to talk to practically anybody? If you want to find a subject of interest, ask them about themselves. That way you will always have plenty to talk about. It's important to make them feel important. If you want friends, show an interest in people around you. No one is without a friend who knows how to be a friend. And if you want to take it to the next level, treat each person you are with as if they are ...

... drunk, took up smoking, stayed out all night, or a million other things other kids did. Sundays were reserved for church, and we never missed once. We knew better than to ask to spend the night with a friend on Saturdays. Now that we have left home, we are all God-fearing, educated, honest adults. We are doing our best to be mean parents just like Mom was. I think that is what's wrong with the world today. ... guess our mother fixed us a dinner that was different from what other kids had, too. Mother insisted on knowing where we were at all times. You'd think we were convicts in a prison. She had to know who our friends were, and what we were doing with them. She insisted that if we said we would be gone for an hour, we would be gone for an hour or less. We were ashamed to admit it, but she had the ...

... Seize The Moment I have a friend who lives by a three-word philosophy:" Seize the moment" Just possibly, she may be the wisest woman on this planet. Too many people put off something that brings them joy just because they haven't thought about it, don't have it on their schedule, didn't know it was coming or are too rigid to depart from their routine. I got to thinking one day about all those women on the Titanic who passed up dessert ... head? You'd better slow down Don't dance so fast Time is short The music won't last. Ever told your child, We'll do it tomorrow And in your haste, not see his sorrow? Ever lost touch, Let a good friendship die To call and say" Hi "? You'd better slow down Don't dance so fast Time is short The music won't last. When you run so fast to get somewhere You miss half the fun of getting there. When you worry and ...

... her eyes well up with tears. She said," Son the most important body part is your shoulder" Was it because it held up my head? She replied," No, because it can hold the head of a friend or loved one when they cry. Everybody needs a shoulder to cry on sometime in life my son. I only hope that you have enough love and friends that you will always have a shoulder to cry on when you need it" ... and there I knew the most important body part was not selfish, it was sympathetic to the pain of OTHERS. You are a friend and whenever you want you can cry on my shoulder !!! People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did, but People will never forget how you made them feel. [Author Unknown-from 'E-Mail Ministry ' (emailministry @googlegroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... ," Why, Jim Brown, who lived right down the pike from Jackson, was not only smarter, but he could throw Andy three times out of four in a wrestling match. But look where Andy is now" Another friend responded," How did there happen to be a fourth time? Don't they usually say three times and out ?"" Sure, they were supposed to, but not Andy. He would never admit he was beat-he would never ... aren't always measured in medals and victories. They are measured in the struggles we overcome. The strongest people aren't always the people who win but the people who don't give up when they lose" It's been said that Andrew Jackson's boyhood friends just couldn't understand how he became a famous general and then the President of the United States. They knew of others who had greater talent but who never succeeded. One of Jackson's friends commented," Why, Jim Brown, who lived ...

... to endure. She helped him to become the happy and loving soul that he is today. She loved him, cared for him, guided him, encouraged him, and watched over him. She has been his aide, his friend, his second mother, and his guardian angel. Words can never express all the good that she has done for him. All I can say to her is" Thank you so much for being such an angel in my son ’ ... Guardian Angels I believe in guardian angels. Since I was a boy I have felt watched over, loved, and protected by my unseen friends and I am so thankful to God for them. I have had far too many near misses with hurt and harm over the years for it to be mere luck. I guess my guardian angels are keeping me around for a reason and I will do my best not to make their work too hard in the future. I ...

... , he conquers the curb and is off to laugh and play with his friends. I weep inside for his handicap, but I am inspired by his courage. And I smile as I watch the children play, totally accepting their friend for who he is, not judging him for what he lacks. It's just another day. My son proudly presents the report he did for school. He shares with me the hopes and dreams he holds for his future. His curiosity ... He struggles to get his special walker over the curb, but it won't budge. A well-meaning teacher offers assistance, but he brushes her away. With determination, he conquers the curb and is off to laugh and play with his friends. I weep inside for his handicap, but I am inspired by his courage. And I smile as I watch the children play, totally accepting their friend for who he is, not judging him for what he lacks. It's just ...

... coon but could not get him down. So one decided he'd climb the tree and shake the coon loose. To his surprise, he found it wasn't a coon at all, but a wildcat. In a little while, his friend heard an awful commotion up in the tree. Then he heard a voice screaming down at him," Help! Help !"" What'll I do ?"" Just shoot up here amongst us ," his friend said." One of us ... Just Chill An Appalachian folk story tells of two friends who went coon hunting. They treed a coon but could not get him down. So one decided he'd climb the tree and shake the coon loose. To his surprise, he found it wasn't a coon at all, but a wildcat. In a little while, his friend heard an awful commotion up in the tree. Then he heard a voice screaming down at him," Help! Help !"" What'll ...

... wrist of each child as he roamed aimlessly through the crowd. They rose high peeking at all below. Hungry faces devoured cheeseburgers and ice cream. Homemade pies and tasty treats made with love filled nostrils. Sam and Ralph, his friend when he visited his Gramparents, sat with Ralph's older brother and his friends." After this" Sam says between his hot-dog on a stick bites." I'm getting a cotton candy"" Yeah ," Ralph added." Give me ... money now Eddie" Ralph stuck out his sticky fingers. Big brother Eddie stood up and reached into his pocket." You kids stay close. We're gonna go on that coaster soon and I want you with us. So you guys got any guts or what ?" Eddie aimed his words in the direction of his companions. Alvin looked up at the silver glistening bullet, holding its gleeful passengers as it glided effortlessly across the undulating structure of the" Monster Cyclone"" ...

... . I likewise appreciate the story about an old Quaker who stood during the church meeting and told his fellow Friends about a young man who was not a Quaker and who lived an undisciplined life. This young man invited a pious Quaker friend to go sailing one day. A sudden storm came up and the wild young man was drowned. Having made his point, the old Quaker sat down. Silence returned to the meeting until the old man once again arose. This time ... inning" If I were God (and thank goodness I'm not ), I think I would have wanted to simply watch the inning. I likewise appreciate the story about an old Quaker who stood during the church meeting and told his fellow Friends about a young man who was not a Quaker and who lived an undisciplined life. This young man invited a pious Quaker friend to go sailing one day. A sudden storm came up and the wild young man was drowned. Having made ...

... Books My dear friend and neighbor gave me some new books recently. As I looked through them I decided to follow the advice of one of my favorite authors, Leo Buscaglia. Taking Leo ’ s lead then I ignored the covers, skipped the introductions, and dived right into the middle of them. Opening each book halfway through I started to read. I have found that this is often the best way to see if a book can grab your mind, speak ... , the love we share, and the good we do everyday. Life is the joyous times we create as well as the pains and trials we learn from. Life is work, play, kindness, laughter, family, and friendships. Life is living. When it comes to your life story then don ’ t spend too much time on the cover and let the introduction write itself. Concentrate instead on filling the rest of your pages with living, loving, and ...

... and right to do so. The next time you are moved to reach out and give to someone, whether it be volunteering some time to help feed the homeless, work with cancer patients, or offering a supportive shoulder to a friend in need, do so expecting nothing in return, and the simple yet profound joy of knowing you did the right thing because it was the godly thing to do, and not because you would receive earthy recognition, will be all the ... answered. Unfortunately, God does not work this way. When a prayer is answered or a blessing bestowed, our Creator does not issue it as some sort of reward system or trophy for a job well done. No, my friends, God is above such juvenile behavior, and when the Lord gives, He gives because it is good and right to do so. The next time you are moved to reach out and give to someone, whether it be volunteering some ...

... a day off and take my 4 year old son wherever I went. I was just hoping that he behaved well the entire day, because I was definitely not in a good mood. I had to pickup a book for my friend who was celebrating her birthday the next day, so I ran to the bookstore, (Remember, I was literally dragging David, my son along with me) and the checkout line was very, very, very long. I did ... I WAS TOO IRRITATED ," I just wanted to finish all my errands. Everyone around me also had a tired and irritated look on them. My son was trying to get my attention by talking to me about his school, his friends, the beautiful sun, butterflies, and a little girl; which all sounded to boring to me. (How rude can I get, huh !!!???!!!) I finally had it, I turned towards my son to tell him to just be ...

... " or" Thank you !" Stop what you are doing and do something silly Buy flowers and give them away to strangers Pay for a stranger's breakfast Run ahead to hold the door Let a driver cut in front of you Call a friend you haven't spoken with in a long time Check on a neighbor Paint, write, or sing out loud Dance to the music in the mall Or pull out a lawn chair and sit in the sun when the temperature is so low the ... a young man leaving behind a wife and three children. I wrote to her and she sent me a link to his blog. I got to read in his words about the last two years of his life and the comments from friends and family. There it is. Now it's gone. Today will bring you many chances to. Say" I love you" or" Thank you !" Stop what you are doing and do something silly Buy flowers and give them away ...

... eventually returned to trading and died a mostly unsuccessful and unhappy man. His downfall was not greed-his problem was rather one of jealousy. Do you know who is the most difficult person to love? It is easy to love friends and not too difficult to love those less fortunate than ourselves. It certainly isn't easy loving enemies, but sometimes the person most difficult to love is the one who is MORE fortunate than we are. The one who receives the promotion we ... traitor" But he was actually a loyal citizen of what was to become the United States, a gallant soldier and a five-star general. Wounded twice in battle, he was highly respected for his military leadership. He even enjoyed the friendship of George Washington. But during the Revolutionary War, Arnold saw five subordinates promoted over him, and the blow to his esteem was more than he could manage. The injury to his pride was far greater than those physical injuries he sustained ...

... snooty millionaire took some of his upper class friends yachting. They passed a deserted island where a man with a long beard and tattered clothes stood, waving his arms and screaming in their direction." Who is that ?" asked the friend." I don't know ," said the host," but every time we sail by he goes crazy" That may be an exception to a universal rule, which is that most people are happy to help if they can. But ... Just Ask For It A snooty millionaire took some of his upper class friends yachting. They passed a deserted island where a man with a long beard and tattered clothes stood, waving his arms and screaming in their direction." Who is that ?" asked the friend." I don't know ," said the host," but every time we sail by he goes crazy" That may be an exception to a universal rule, which is that most people are happy to ...

... at the same thing and see something totally different. To learn that those who are honest with themselves without considering the consequences go far in life. To learn that even though they may think they have nothing to give, when a friend cries with them, they find the strength to ease the pain. To learn that by trying to hold on to loved ones, they very quickly push them away; and by letting go of those whom they love, they will be ... , that does not give them the right to upset those around them. To learn that great dreams do not require great wings, but only a compass to keep you on course, and in My will. To learn that true friends are scarce, he / she who has found one has found a true treasure. To learn that it is not always enough that they be forgiven by others, but that they forgive themselves. To learn that they are masters of what ...

... The Million Ways After almost two weeks of constant cloudiness I saw the sun again today. It was like greeting an old friend that I hadn ’ t seen in years. It lit up not only the sky and the Earth but my soul as well. I smiled towards the Heavens and thanked God for this beautiful sight. I knew too that it was just one of the million ways that God says, “ I love you ” to us everyday. In fact ... plus warm sweaters, warm hearts, and hot chocolate on cold, Winter days. Let ’ s not forget either inspiring books, encouraging words, beautiful music, and the peace that prayer brings. We are also blessed with caring friends, good-hearted neighbors, and compassionate strangers who bring us comfort in times of need. Then we have all those obstacles that make us steer off the wrong road and onto the right path as well as all those problems that make us stronger ...

... Let's do this together" Douglas was most thankful for his teacher's hand. Brushing aside a tear, she went on with her work. The story speaks of more than thankfulness. It says something about teachers teaching and parents parenting and friends showing friendship, and how much it means to the Douglases of the world. They might not always say thanks. But they'll remember the hand that reaches out. [Author Unknown-from E-mail Ministry (http :// www.emailministry.org)] Inspirational ... SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... How Thirsty Are You? A man had an operation, and the doctor, by mistake, left a sponge in him. A friend asked him if he had any pain because of it." No ," said the man," but I sure do get thirsty" Isn't it wonderful when we get thirsty-not for water, but thirsty to chase a dream or to so something different? I think it is those people who crave something with an unquenchable thirst ... a powerful thirst to succeed. They practiced the piano for hours every day, rose well before school in the morning to practice swimming or running, or spent huge chunks of time alone (time they could have spent hanging out with friends) working on science projects or painting. Parental support was also a key factor. Parents of these extraordinarily thirsty young people helped out, exposing their children to great ideas and influential persons. Many sacrificed to ensure that their offspring received good ...

... a lot poorer. No pensions, no welfare. No food stamps, no Social Security. In fact, one-third of the people in the world will go to bed hungry tonight. Are you lonely? The way to have a friend is to be one. If nobody calls you, pick up the phone and call someone. Are you concerned about our country's future? Hooray! Our system has been saved by such concern. Our country may not be a rose garden ... again?-ELEANOR ALARCON, UNION, N.J. DEAR ELEANOR: With pleasure! O heavenly Father: We thank thee for food and remember the hungry. We thank thee for health and remember the sick. We thank thee for friends and remember the friendless. We thank thee for freedom and remember the enslaved. May these remembrances stir us to service, that thy gifts to us may be used for others. Amen. «:*´`³¤³´`*:»§«:*´`³¤³´`*:»§«:*´`³ ³´`*:»§«:*´`³¤³´`*:»§«:*´`³¤³´`*:» «:*´`³¤³´`*:»§«:*´`³¤³´`*:» Since today is Thanksgiving, take ...

... after that. I never got into another fist fight either. I had found out that sharing and forgiving were way more fun and a lot less painful. Forgiveness truly is the sweetest revenge. It can turn an enemy into a friend. It can free a heart from the chains of anger, hatred, and pain. It can open a soul to the sweetness of love and joy once again. It can help you to live by the Golden Rule and to create ... He seemed very lonely right then. I am not sure what moved me to do so, but I took my pizza down and shared it with him. It made all the anger and pain inside me go away. We became friends after that. I never got into another fist fight either. I had found out that sharing and forgiving were way more fun and a lot less painful. Forgiveness truly is the sweetest revenge. It can turn an enemy into a friend ...

... " All of the other truckers took off their caps and bowed their heads as a prayer was spoken. After the prayer each of the truckers had a word of encouragement or strength. One of the truckers said," Come on friend. Follow us into town" The truckers all turned on their lights and escorted my brother the rest of the way into the Metroplex. I owe a debt to those unknown truckers. Those men stopped to help what they thought might be ... daily basis." This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you" John 15: 12 (NKJ)" Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends" John 15: 13 (NKJ) [Bill Paxton-from Al Ashman-Ed: Anon] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... grade school who had any sort of a physical disability. This was sort of an odd feeling. I had to accept an" able-bodied" lifestyle, which in reality didn't exist. Don't get me wrong. I have plenty of friends, but really ran into problems with the girls. Try as I might, I could never shake the stigma of" there goes the guy on crutches with the really bad gait" But being your average high hormone teenager, I didn't ... being a dynamic scholar and athlete Marcie has taught me one thing-the ability to believe. On the flagstone of that bridge I built lies Marcie's motto," I will win" I will win, and that is why my friendship with Marcie is one bridge that I'll never be able to burn. [by David Wolfe (sportdave @pacbell.net)-from 'Heartwarmers '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... better than anyone else in this world. I may be able to do some things that they can ’ t, but their lives are just as precious and just as valuable as mine. As I watch my oldest son be a friend to everyone in his school and share his simple kindness with everyone he meets I am warmed to the depths of my being. I know too that he has touched hearts and brightened souls everyday of his life here with his gentle spirit and ... how much God loves us and just how much God wants us to love each other. I try then to share my love and my joy everyday with them, with my beautiful daughter, with my loving family, with my wonderful friends, and with all of you special souls who read my simple words. I hope that you all do the same.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella (joecool @wirefire.com)-{ used with ...

... ABC ’ s of a Fruitful Life A lways put God first in your life. B e a true friend and you will have many friends. C ount and thank God for your many blessings daily. D iscipline yourself. Decide to make your life count. E dify and encourage others consistently. F ollow great leaders and then become one. G ive liberally and joyfully of your time, talents and means. H ave an attitude of gratitude. I nvert any ... thrown your way. Turn them into positives. J ourney through life one step and one day at a time. K eep written goals set ahead. Make specific plans to accomplish them. L ove and forgive everybody. M aximize your strengths and minimize your weaknesses. N ever, never, never give up! O pen the door wide when opportunity knocks. P ractice patience. Promote peace. Q uit bad habits by replacing them with good habits. R ead God's ...

... I want you to include Me in on the things going on in your life. I want to hear you talk about your friends and family. Prayer is simply you having a conversation with Me. I want to be your dearest friend. HAVE FAITH I see a lot of things from up here that you can't see from where you are. Have faith in Me that I know what I'm doing. Trust Me; you wouldn't want the view from My eyes. I ... don't forget to talk to Me-OFTEN! I love YOU! I want to hear your voice. I want you to include Me in on the things going on in your life. I want to hear you talk about your friends and family. Prayer is simply you having a conversation with Me. I want to be your dearest friend. HAVE FAITH I see a lot of things from up here that you can't see from where you are. Have faith in Me ...

... A Smiling Face I was in a local store the other day getting my furry, four-legged friends some food. It was a busy time of the day and instead of just running in and out I found myself behind three other people in the checkout line. I didn ’ t really mind, though, when I saw that one of my favorite cashiers was on duty. This cashier always takes the time to give you a few kind words and a warm smile along ... will be worn only once. A smile can be worn every single day and its uses are never ending. It can uplift a hurting heart. It can bring laughter to a weary soul. It can share the warm glow of friendship. It can reconnect us to the human family. It can show us just how beautiful life can be. It can remind us just how much God loves us, and it can open a window inside of us so that the light ...

... . The best musician is one who plays with expression and meaning, not the one who finishes first. Take a day off alone; make a retreat. You can learn from monks and hermits without becoming one. Pet a furry friend. You will give and get the gift of now. Work with your hands. It frees the mind. Take time to wonder. Without wonder, life is merely existence. Sit in the dark. It will teach you to see ... be more. Let go. Nothing is usually the hardest thing to do-but often it is the best. Take a walk-but don't go anywhere. If you walk just to get somewhere, you sacrifice the walking. Count your friends. If you have one, you are lucky. If you have more, you are blessed. Bless them in return. Count your blessings-one at a time and slowly. [Author Unknown-from MeMail.com, 'Women's Words, ...

... . We lie the loudest when we lie to ourselves. Jumping to conclusions can be bad exercise. A turtle makes progress when it sticks it's head out. One thing you can give and still keep. is your word. A friend walks in when everyone else walks out. The pursuit of happiness is the chase of a lifetime !!! [Jim / Carolyn Wheeler, from 'Sermon_Fodder ' (Sermon_Fodder @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ... Line Parables If you want your dreams to come true, don't oversleep. The smallest good deed is better than the grandest intention. Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important. The best vitamin for making friends .B1. The 10 commandments are not multiple choice. The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts. Minds are like parachutes. they function only when open. Ideas won't work unless YOU do. One thing you can't ...

... stay up just a little bit longer. Mom's Tip #015: Lock up the good china. Mom's Tip #016: Tickle. Mom's Tip #017: Be a good sport. Mom's Tip #018: Be a good friend. Mom's Tip #019: Smile when your mother-in-law gives you advice. Mom's Tip #020: ALL mothers are working mothers. Mom's Tip #021: Ultimatums don't work. Mom's Tip #022: Bribes work. Mom's Tip # ... you're loved. Mom's Tip #126: Always make their favorite dish when they visit. Mom's Tip #127: Believe it or not, SATs aren't everything. Mom's Tip #128: Yes, it's important they wear what their friends wear. Mom's Tip #129: Teenagers are SUPPOSED to dress goofy. Mom's Tip #130: Yes, we're all tired of dinosaurs. Mom's Tip #131: Anyone can make a secret special sauce. Mom's Tip #132: ...

... Remember when YOU misbehaved. If you don't know, say so. Let grandma spoil them. Let them stay up just a little bit longer. Lock up the good china. Tickle. Be a good sport. Be a good friend. Smile when your mother-in-law gives you advice. ALL mothers are working mothers. Ultimatums don't work. Bribes work. Hysteria will get you nowhere. Their first summer at camp is murder. Let them lick the spoon. Learn lots of ... too young to be a grandma. The more they tease you, the more you're loved. Always make their favorite dish when they visit. Believe it or not, SATs aren't everything. Yes, it's important they wear what their friends wear. Teenagers are SUPPOSED to dress goofy. Yes, we're all tired of dinosaurs. Anyone can make a secret special sauce. Buy them a globe. Socks and underwear are not gifts. Ear thermometers beat rectal any day. Hide ...

... 4 part message about wrong-right way to comfort 1. MISERABLE COMFORTERS I have heard many such things. Miserable comforters are ye all! (Job 16: 1-2, KJV)" Miserable comforters"-this is what Job called his three friends, who had come to comfort him during his illness. But what were they doing wrong? Job's friends had made great sacrifices on his behalf. They had dropped all of their own affairs and came rushing to be by Job's side. They stayed with him for seven whole days without saying a word, because they saw how great his pain was. Job's friends had also said many things to encourage him. Read Job 1-15 over again for yourself and see. For example, Here is Eliphaz:" But if it were I, I would appeal to God; I would lay my cause before Him. He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted. He bestows rain ...

... The Journey Toward Faith When people say God doesn't shut the door without opening the window, I think I know what they mean and I would like to share it with you. When it seems like life has dealt you a bad hand, maybe it is for a reason. I have a friend that grew up in an abused home and was moved around a lot. At times my friend wanted to give up but she had a very special friend that would not let her for every now and then a ray of sunshine would appear in her life, just enough to keep her going and just as she began seeing the calm after the storm the ultimate tragedy happened. Her best friend was killed in an accident," What else can I tolerate ?" she asked. She began searching for a new beginning, every door was shut in her face. One day she spoke to the minister of her church and pleaded for answers. She ...

... Where The Light Is There is a delightful, old story that always brings a smile to my face. One day a man was walking down the street and saw his friend crawling around on his hands and knees looking for something. The man asks his friend what he is looking for on the ground. His friend says," I lost my key" The man feels sorry for his friend and gets down to help look for it. After a long time of looking without success the man asks his friend where he was standing when he lost his key. The friend replies," Oh, I lost it in my house" Outraged by this the man asks why they are looking on the street then. His friend says," Because there is more light here" As funny as that sounds it is the way a lot of people think. They want to know the purpose of their lives. They want to figure out the ...

... What's Important to You A Native American and his friend were in downtown New York City, walking near Times Square in Manhattan. It was during the noon lunch hour and the streets were filled with people. Cars were honking their horns, taxicabs were squealing around corners, sirens were wailing, and the sounds of the city were almost deafening. Suddenly, the Native American said," I hear a cricket" His friend said," What? You must be crazy. You couldn't possibly hear a cricket in all of this noise !"" No, I'm sure of it ," the Native American said," I heard a cricket"" That's crazy ," said the friend. The Native American listened carefully for a moment, and then walked across the street to a big cement planter where some shrubs were growing. He looked into the bushes, beneath the branches, and sure enough, he located a small cricket. His friend was utterly ...

... with a good one. Repeat the new behavior twenty times … and it is yours. If any behavior, good or bad, is often repeated, it becomes stronger and more powerful." Since habits become power, make them work for you and not against you ," said E. Stanley Jones. In other words, drive out the undesirable nail, the behavior you'd like to change, with a better one. One woman did just that after lamenting to her friend," I hate being late. It has been a problem for me all of my life"" Do you really want to change that habit ?" her friend asked. The woman said that she did and her friend responded," All right. Every time you're late for work or anywhere else, then give me $25"" I'd go broke !" she said." But I'll do $10"" It's got to hurt ," said the friend." ...

... The Meaning of Success One man began a speech to his fellow college alumni with the statement," Some of you are successes, and some of you are failures-only God knows which are which !" There are many kinds of successes, many kinds of winners; and which is which may not at first be apparent. Esther Kim is a true champion with a heartwarming story. She competed against her childhood friend, Kay Poe, in the U.S. Olympic Trials for her sport-Taekwondo. Esther lost the match, but she went on to win all her other fights, which still qualified her for the finals. Her friend, Kay, also won her successive matches. But in her last fight before the finals, disaster struck. Kay dislocated her knee and went down in great pain. Her knee was reset as she lay in agony on the mat. All the while, her friend Esther encouraged her from the sidelines to ...

... and leave us in a lonely room. Cruelty of others cuts our hearts and leaves us empty. We were born to celebrate, to reach up and believe. We were born to rejoice, to lift our hands to life. We were born to sing, to paint rainbows with our voice. We were born to love, to hold the hands of gentleness. We were born to share, to be a blessing to those around us. Reach up, my friend and believe for that is God's dream. Lift your hands, my friend and live for that is God's purpose. Paint your world, my friend with songs for that is God's compassion. Hold on, my friend with gentleness for that is God's love. Bless those around you, my friend for you are God's gift. No less than a flower planted by angels and nurtured by the hands of God. [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com ...

... my childhood and stuffed them in a box. Then we took a hard look at all that remained. There was a lamp that belonged to my great grandmother. A piano my wife Bev learned to play when she was a little girl. A hutch that belonged to her grandmother. A large rug we spent months saving for and bought for our mountain home. Bedroom furniture we wanted to pass down to our children someday. There were handmade quilts and gifts from dear friends and family. It was impractical to move everything from our home and store them for an indefinite time. Some important items would have to stay behind. I never thought that my" things" meant much to me. I prided myself in believing that I would never let myself get attached to possessions, for things of the spirit were all that truly mattered. But these particular" things" pulled within. Those" worthless" coins and memorabilia from my childhood-what ...

... Your Own Best Friend Most people report that they do not usually feel confident. But exciting things can happen when we actually believe in ourselves. Here is a man who believed in his own ability even as a boy, and that confidence helped shape his adult life. At the turn of the last century, a young boy quit school to help with the family expenses. When he was fifteen, he became interested in automobiles and worked in a garage. He subscribed to a correspondence home study course on automobiles and, after a long day in the garage, studied at the kitchen table by lamplight. When he felt ready, he walked into the Frayer-Miller Automobile Company of Columbus, Ohio. When Mr. Frayer noticed him, he asked," Well, what do you want ?"" I just thought I'd tell you I'm coming to work here tomorrow morning ," the boy replied." Oh! Who hired you ?"" Nobody yet ...

... A Loving Thought Here is my new article. It is about a loving thought that helped me change the course of my life. I hope that you enjoy it. Wishing you every joy... George Macdonald wrote that" If instead of a gem or even a flower, we should cast the gift of a loving thought into the heart of a friend, that would be giving as the angels give" I can remember one of the first loving thoughts that was cast into my own heart and the angel who placed it there. I was a young boy and my parents, brothers, and I were spending the afternoon at the home of a family friend. This friend was the hymn leader at our church as well as the music teacher at my grade school. I remember I used to sit and listen to her play songs on her guitar for hours at a time. On this day my dad was outside once again working ...

... I See God" Sometimes it is so hard to believe in a God that you can ’ t see" These were the words at the end of a letter a friend sent me. It was full of the pain and suffering that life often brings. My friend had endured so much in his young life and his latest tragedy had even made him doubt his lifelong faith. I pondered his words as I looked out my window. The cool breeze was gently swaying the trees back and forth. I walked outside and felt its tender touch on my own face while the branches of a mighty Oak seemed to wave to me. Then I smiled because I knew that God had given me the answer my friend needed. This is what I wrote back to him." My friend, I can ’ t see the wind, but I still know it is there. I can see its affect on the trees as they dance in its ...

... It Is Then You Hear The Hush" I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee"-Hebrews 13: 5 What happens after the funeral is over and the guests have all gone to their individual homes, leaving the grieving one to carry on with his or her life? Of course, this has to happen. People have to get back to their lives. It isn ’ t expected of anyone to stop living because a friend has died. As the saying goes," Life must go on" We have all lost loved ones. It is a painful, but inevitable part of life. I remember years ago when my husband and I lost a dear one. He was like a son-our only child. He had lived with us since he was ten. He drowned at the age of twenty. Too young to die! I remember how we felt. We were angry. We looked out at the world ...

... him to the library whispered," You can just give him some candy and he'll be happy" Santa simply looked over the rim of his glasses and smiled with a wink. Taking Dewey by the hand Santa led the young, gleaming boy to the big chair then plopped him up on Santa's knee." What is your name ?" Santa asked with his white gloved hands. Dewey could not answer! He was so shocked that he jumped down and went to the friend that brought him." He signs, He talks like me !" Dewey signed with so much excitement and enthusiasm that Santa could hardly keep up." My name is Santa ," Santa signed to Dewey trying, rather futilely, to keep this young man, somehow, on track. Finally, after several false starts, Dewey sat still long enough for Santa to have a real conversation with him. Santa and Dewey spent the next ten to fifteen minutes talking about whatever it ...

... 15 Minutes A friend wrote me the other day and told me that I sure do seem to have a lot of good days in my life. This friend wanted to know what is the difference between having a good day and having a bad day. I thought about it a long time and I think that I finally figured it out. The difference is about 15 minutes. Think about it. Just how long does it take to really live the way that God always meant for you to live? How long does it take to say," I love you God. Thank you for my life "? How long does it take to say a little prayer for someone you care about? How long does it take to tell a friend," You are looking good today "? How long does it take to stop your child in the hallway and give them a hug? How long does it take to bend down and smell a flower ...

... Counting Little Blessings Newly divorced, I was waiting tables at a little diner in Ponca City, Oklahoma, barely scraping by. My three-year-old son, Scott, had chronic asthma and the medical bills were overwhelming me. Worry undermined my thinking. My faith in myself and God was crumbling." Why am I going through this ?" I asked the Lord." Why aren't you helping me ?" One day my good friend Bea came over and sat at the kitchen table with me as I recounted my woes:" Scott isn't getting better. I've brought him to the best doctors I can afford. He's taking five different medications, but they don't seem to do any good. The landlord is raising our rent. I can't work any more hours. I'm so tired I can hardly open my eyes in the morning..." Scott sat on the floor at his toy piano, pounding out a perfect rendition of" Twinkle, Twinkle ...

... jokingly replied," I'm here to meet a rich husband, get married, have a couple of children, and then retire and travel"" No seriously ," I asked. I was curious what may have motivated her to be taking on this challenge at her age." I always dreamed of having a college education and now I'm getting one !" she told me. After class we walked to the student union building and shared a chocolate milkshake. We became instant friends. Every day for the next three months we would leave class together and talk non-stop. I was always mesmerized listening to this" time machine" as she shared her wisdom and experience with me. Over the course of the year, Rose became a campus icon and she easily made friends wherever she went. She loved to dress up and she reveled in the attention bestowed upon her from the other students. She was living it up. At the end of the semester ...

... Valentinus, Gift of Love This is the fascinating story of the priest, St. Valentine. According to history, Valentinus (the Latin form) was thrown into a dungeon. Although his jailer, Asterius, was not harsh, the priest lived with only the bare necessities. His one comfort while in prison was his friendship with Asterius ' blind daughter. She befriended the kindly priest by bringing him food and delivering messages. After a year in jail, Valentinus was summoned to appear before Claudius II. The emperor was so impressed by the young priest's dignity that Claudius attempted to convert him from Christianity to save him from execution. Valentinus, however, refused and was ordered to be beaten with clubs, stoned and executed. In the last days of his life, Valentinus, through his faith, restored the sight of the jailer's daughter. He also converted Asterius and the girl to his faith. On the eve of his execution the priest ...

... either. Nope, I'm fine.I meant to do that. Furthermore, when I think I'm right, I usually want people to know it. And when I'm IN THE RIGHT, it's hard to hold me back." Hey, I'm the injured party here. I didn't do anything wrong. I can prove it !" I don't suffer righteous indignation quietly. I learned of a minister who left his pulpit to go to medical school and become a doctor. An old friend saw him several years later and expressed surprise at his career change, but said he assumed it had been because he could care for people in a more physical way now that he was practicing medicine." Not at all ," the doctor responded honestly," the reasons were purely economic. I discovered that people will pay more money to care for their bodies than for their souls" Several years lapsed before the friend saw him again and discovered that he had left medicine for ...

... as a young man, learned an important and life-changing lesson. Red had just graduated from college and was offered an opportunity to interview for a position with a firm in New York City. As the job involved moving his wife and small child from Texas to New York, he wanted to talk the decision over with someone before accepting it, but his father had died and Red did not feel he had anybody to turn to. On impulse, he telephoned an old friend of the family; someone his father had suggested he turn to if he ever needed good advice. The friend said he would be happy to give Red advice about the job offer under the condition that the young man takes whatever advice he was given." You might want to think about that for a couple of days before hearing my suggestion ," he was told. Two days later Red called the man back and said he was ready to listen to his counsel." ...

... my grave. You made a great show of the flowers you gave. I lay in the hospital, lonely and sad. To have you come visit, would have made me so glad. But you said," No time. I'm too busy living" You thought all along that I'd be forgiving. You took it for granted that I'd understand That you couldn't bother to come hold my hand. Well, now I've passed on. It's too late, my friend. Your teardrops and flowers will not make amends. I can't see your bouquets, folks, now that I'm dead. I won't see the gravestone that's placed at my head. I can't hear the eulogy the preacher is saying. I won't know the cost for my funeral they're paying. I don't care at all who shows up at my grave. It won't make a difference if a big wake they gave. The flowers, the gravestone, the praises, the cost ...

... A Laughing Matter According to psychologist William James, we do not laugh because we are happy. But rather, we are happy because we laugh. The happiest people alive are those who know how to laugh often and well. In his book A TOUCH OF WONDER, Arthur Gordon tells of a friend of his who knew about laughter. Though deaf and almost blind, he went right on working, laughing and making the most of his life. One Christmas season Arthur and his friend entered a crowded drugstore. On the back of the door was a mirror, visible when the door was closed. As they turned to leave, Arthur's friend saw his reflection in the mirror. He thought the door must be open and that the figure he dimly viewed before him was a customer attempting to enter the store. He stepped aside and, naturally, so did the image. He moved forward again and once more met himself. Again he retreated ...

... My Aunt My Aunt is a remarkable woman. She is on the far side of 80. I won ’ t say how far. Still, she has more energy and enthusiasm for life than I ever could have. Every time we talk on the phone I am filled with delight at the gentle humor and cheerfulness in her voice. Her care and compassion for everyone around her are an inspiration. She is always doing good. She makes sure her friends get to the doctor and to Church. She helps in her community in countless ways. And she does it all with a joyful smile on her face. Her faith and love for God are amazing too. She has lost brothers, sisters, and her husband to death. She has watched her friends, children, and grandchildren deal with health problems. She has faced health difficulties in her own life as well. Through it all, however, her belief in God ’ s ...

... WHO SPEAKS FOR GOD tells about a sad and terrifying incident that occurred during the tragic war in Sarajevo not too many years back. A reporter who was covering the violence in the middle of the city saw a little girl fatally shot by a sniper. The reporter threw down his pad and pencil and rushed to the aid of a man who was now holding the child. He helped them both into his car and sped off to a hospital." Hurry, my friend ," the man urged," my child is still alive" A moment or two later he pleaded," Hurry, my friend, my child is still breathing" A little later he said," Hurry, my friend, my child is still warm" When they got to the hospital, the young girl was gone." This is a terrible task for me ," the distraught man said to the reporter." I must go tell her father that his child ...

... Just By Being In It My old friends have returned for another summer of fun in my backyard. There must be hundreds of them out there every night. I can ’ t stay up with them anymore, but I sure do love watching them dance in the darkness for the first few hours after the sun goes down. They don ’ t even need any music and I never have to worry about them bumping into each other either, because each one of them carries their own light. Watching my friends, the fireflies, light up my backyard every night brings me nothing but joy. I feel my own light shining a little brighter when I see them and I feel a little closer to God ’ s love as I look at them. What a wonderful love God must have for us all to give us such a beautiful world full of amazing creatures like these. They make the whole world a better place just by being in ...

... agreed on ten traits they believed were important for all parents to possess. Here they are: They want harmony. They do not want their parents to have unresolved and destructive conflict in front of them. They want love. They wish to be treated with the same affection as other children in the family. They want honesty. And to be told the truth. They want acceptance. They desire mutual tolerance from both parents. They want their parents to like their friends. They want their friends to be welcomed in the home. They want closeness. They desire comradeship with their parents. They want their parents to pay attention to them and answer their questions. They want consideration from their parents. They do not want to be embarrassed or punished in front of friends. They want positive support. They wish for their parents to concentrate on their good points rather than their weaknesses. They want consistency. They desire parents to be constant in ...

... Pillars On Your Porch You may have heard writer Elizabeth Foley's insightful words:" Friends in your life are like pillars on your porch. Sometimes they hold you up and sometimes they lean on you. Sometimes it's just enough to know they're standing by" It's true. The difficulties of life are easier to manage with friends. In the book SHINDLER'S LEGACY, authors Elinor J. Brecher and Jill Freedman interview some of the people saved by the Nazi Oscar Schindler. One survivor says this about the sufferings of her life:" I survived Auschwitz and all the atrocities of the war. But the most difficult thing I ever had to face was losing my 39-year-old daughter to cancer" The army of modern medicine could not save her daughter. This woman went through the war and concentration camp experience WITH people; she suffered alongside of them. But she fought this other terrible battle alone. We are all survivors! In some way we have each ...

... . Then" Pow !" It hit me. It hit me so hard that I shook. It made me remember that feeling when I really, truly believed. Not just as it applied to my faith, but the moment I believed I was a good man. I remembered the moment I accepted a compliment and didn't make a joke out of it. The hour I first believed I could, I should, I would and I did. Then I grabbed my friend by the shoulders and said," I remember the hour I first believed I was worthy" I continued," I began to cry inside. I began to explode with a clash of sadness and extreme happiness. I tried to speak and I couldn't. I had, for so very long, believed that I wasn't worthy of all the good in my life. I recognized it. I knew it was good, but I didn't believe I deserved it. That is ...

... then I had been very bitter towards God because I was alone and wanted desperately to be married and have someone to share my life with. I was so angry with God. I couldn't understand how He could claim to be a Loving Father and still allow me to go on being alone and miserable especially when it was within his power to change my situation over night. How could He stand by and see me suffer, watch my heart break as I saw my friends one by one all marry and start families of their own. It became more than I could bear. How could He do this to me? Didn't He see how I ached inside, how I hurt? My heart was broken, my spirit crushed, I had no hope for the future. What I did have however was a distorted view of God. I felt as if He was withholding a mate from me because I wanted one so badly. It was as ...

... of this world! Gift Suggestions: Your heart. He's one of those people who already has everything else. (He's very generous in return though-just wait until you see what He has for you). Entertainment: Joy, Peace, Truth, Light, Life, Love, Real Happiness, Communion with God, Forgiveness, Miracles, Healing, Power, Eternity in Paradise, and much more! (All rated" G" so bring your family and friends). R.S.V.P. Very Important! He must know ahead so He can reserve a spot for you at the table. Also, he's keeping a list of His friends for future reference. He calls it the" Lamb's Book of Life "). The Party Is Being Given By His Kids (that's us). Hope To See You There!" Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride ...

... I thought I couldn't satisfy on my own. Someone, anyone with a pulse would do. Over the years, I dated quite a few guys I liked-I was even engaged once but" till death do we part" seemed a very long time. I always ended up alone again. So holidays, especially with the Aunt Nells of the family, can weaken my confidence, leaving me a little bereft. One day, noting my frustration surrounding the holidays, a friend of mine suggested we try something different on the next such occasion." How` bout you and I go down to a homeless shelter and help out? Then maybe we'll be grateful for what we have ," she proposed. I had a thousand reasons why this wasn't a good idea, but my friend persisted. The next Christmas I found myself in an old downtown warehouse, doling out food. Never in my life had I seen so many turkeys and rows of pumpkin ...

... gust and the florist shop door. Her life had been easy, like a spring breeze. Then in the fourth month of her second pregnancy, a minor automobile accident stole that from her. During this Thanksgiving week she would have delivered a son. She grieved over her loss. As if that weren't enough, her husband's company threatened a transfer. Then her sister, whose holiday visit she coveted, called saying she could not come for the holiday. Then Sandra's friend infuriated her by suggesting her grief was a God-given path to maturity that would allow her to empathize with others who suffer. She has no idea what I'm feeling, thought Sandra with a shudder. Thanksgiving? Thankful for what? She wondered. For a careless driver whose truck was hardly scratched when he rear-ended her? For an airbag that saved her life but took that of her child?" Good afternoon, can I help you ?" The shop clerk's approach startled her. ...

... noone else was taking on the party line, and then slowly dial each number on the rotary wheel. These days my home is wireless and yet has more wires than I can count. I have a mobile phone, cell phone, and computer. I have two televisions and a hundred cable channels. I have CD and DVD players. My daughter has an i-pod and a cell phone with more functions than she could ever hope to use. I am connected with friends and family all over the globe and can communicate at the speed of light. I am a part of the vast electronic web that encircles our world. I know too that there is no going back to the simpler age that I grew up in. Still, there are times each day when I shut down my computer and turn off my televisions and cell phone. I do so to spend some quiet time in prayer, to talk to my children and hear about their ...

... 10-Step Program For Happiness Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctor worry about them. That is why you pay him / her. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle." An idle mind is the devil's workshop ," The devil's name is Depression. Enjoy the simple things. When the children are young, that is all that you can afford. When they are in college, that is all that you can afford. When you are on retirement, that is all that you can afford. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath. Laugh so much that you can be tracked in the store by your distinctive laughter. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is with us our entire life ...

... Dad made on my tired, old cars over the years is a gift I can never repay. His help kept me driving and his love kept me going during some of the toughest points in my life. Those phone calls from my Aunt that keep me smiling for half the day are another priceless gift I still enjoy. They always lift my spirits as high as Heaven. The hugs, smiles, laughter and kind words that are shared with my children, my friends and my neighbors are daily gifts that I wouldn ’ t trade for all the presents in the world. The letters and cards I get from my wonderful online friends also have a special place under the Christmas tree in my heart. They have made my soul rich beyond compare. All of these gifts remind me too that Love is the greatest gift of all The love that God has for us and the love that we share with each other is what life is all about ...

... the young people exuded a sense of peace. Where did that calmness come from? One of the singers said he found strength by repeating to himself the words of the Psalmist:" Thou shalt not be afraid {of} the terror by night" The heroism did not come without a price. Choir member James Harrison repeatedly ran back into the burning plane to pull passengers to safety. He was apparently overcome by smoke and collapsed. A few days ago, James's friends gathered at First Baptist Church of Royal, Arkansas, to bury him. Charles Wright, the head of Ouachita's music program, quoted the words of James's Savior:" Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" We've all read reams of press coverage about the Little Rock crash and questions about what caused it in the first place. But in the great untold story is the answer to an even greater question: Is ...

... Making The Best Of You A middle-aged man decided to take up jogging. He found a sports shop carrying a wide variety of running shoes. While trying on a pair, he noticed a little pocket on the side of the shoe." What's this thing for ?" he asked the sales clerk." Oh, that's to carry spare change so you can call a friend to come pick you up when you've jogged too far" That would probably never be a problem for me. I know avid runners and gym enthusiasts who can't wait to get out in the morning and work up a healthy sweat before starting the day. THEY are likely to jog too far. I know others, however, who exercise with a grim determination to get through the workout because they know it's good for them, like a child forcing down the healthy breakfast cereal when all the while wishing she were eating the sugary bowl advertized on television. Whereas the first ...

... ... It was a particularly devastating time in my life. I had left my own home to live in an apartment with my then 10-year-old son (who would just have been in the way of his Mother's new-found life-style )! Every day I mourned my fate, having lost my wife, my family, and my home! I was more financially strapped than I'd ever imagined possible. I had to pay the mortgage on the home my wife and her new" friend" were living in, for the car that she was still driving, child support and alimony, and now also rent on the apartment and living expenses for my son and myself. On top of it all, I was now a single parent, having to put meals on the table, look after my son's medical needs, jockeying my son hither, tither, and yon, and all the other domestic chores. Well, one night when I hit the hay, ...

... she is home with me, and not out with someone else. for the husband who is on the sofa being a couch potato, because he is home with me and not out at the bars. for the teenager who is complaining about doing dishes because it means she is at home, not on the streets. for the taxes I pay because it means i am employed. for the mess to clean after a party because it means I have been surrounded by friends. for the clothes that fit a little too snug because it means I have enough to eat. for my shadow that watches me work because it means I am out in the sunshine for a lawn that needs mowing, windows that need cleaning, and gutters that need fixing because it means I have a home. for all the complaining I hear about the government because it means we have freedom of speech. for the parking spot I find at the far end of the ...

... as feathers in a gale. I've learned.... that being kind is more important than being right. I've learned.... that you should never say no to a gift from a child. I've learned.... that I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in some other way. I've learned.... that no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with. I've learned.... that sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand. I've learned.... that simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a child did wonders for me as an adult. I've learned.... that life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes. I've learned ...

... have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy .Believe it! It is real! But, only for a season. LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons -those things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person / people (any way ); and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. Some of you are more than friends -you are family. And some of you are more than family -you are friends. Thank you for being part of my life. [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... your face-lift, your abs and your stocks not fall; and may your blood pressure, your triglycerides, your cholesterol, your white blood count and your mortgage interest not rise. May you find a way to travel from anywhere to anywhere in the rush hour in less than an hour, and when you get there may you find a parking space. May Sunday evening, December 31, find you seated around the dinner table, together with your beloved family and cherished friends, ushering in the new year ahead. You will find the food better, the environment quieter, the cost much cheaper, and the pleasure much more fulfilling than anything else you might ordinarily do that night. May you wake up on January 1st, finding that the world has not come to an end, the lights work, the water faucets flow, and the sky has not fallen. May you ponder how did this ultramodern civilization of ours manage to get itself traumatized ...

... The Eyes That See I have a blind friend who lives in New York City. Although we have never met face to face, we still write each other frequently. She is a remarkable lady and has become like a sister to me. Her optimistic and enthusiastic letters always lift my spirits and the inspiring poems she shares with the world always bring a smile to my face. She is all the more amazing due to the fact that she lost her sight halfway through her life. She had to give up her career and relearn to do everything that most of us take for granted. Many would have given up after such a loss but not her. Instead she embarked on a glorious new life full of award winning volunteer work. Her days are full of teaching English to new immigrants, counseling hurting hearts, writing, serving her religious community, and helping others in every way she can. The light of my friend ’ s example ...

... The" Golden" Suitcase After five long years of college, my dear friend Kathy and I, our children (Dianna and Michael ), boarded an Amtrak passenger train, and headed off to Colorado Springs. My parents had so lovingly given me this paid vacation, as a college graduation gift. I looked forward to sitting back, reading a non-medical book, and watching miles and miles of countryside pass by. The only problem was, I didn't have any luggage to pack my belongings in. My friend Debbie, heard that I needed a suitcase and offered to lend me one that belonged to her father, who had passed away long ago." I don't know if you'll want to use it ," she said so gently," it's very old, worn out, and such an ugly yellow color" I was so touched by her offer to lend something that belonged to her father, but, I was also concerned about the possibly ...

... How To Have A Life Of Joy Do you know how to have a life of joy? A businessman on his deathbed called his friend and said," Bill, I want you to promise me that when I die you will have my remains cremated"" And what ," his friend asked," do you want me to do with your ashes ?" The businessman said," Just put them in an envelope and mail them as taxes to the government and write on the envelope, 'NOW YOU HAVE EVERYTHING!" Paying taxes is not usually a joy. But GIVING can be joyful. We pay the taxes because we have to. But when we choose to give time or money, then giving can add to our overall happiness. Mother Teresa teaches us an important lesson about happiness. She was one of those people who emanated joy. Born in 1910 in Skopje, Macedonia, she felt called as a teenager to move to Calcutta ...

... routine and ordinary. I'll never forget one such moment. I stumbled out the door of a mountain cabin where I was spending the weekend working with youth and their families at a rustic retreat center. I had a 6: 30 a.m. appointment to keep and squinted from the early autumn sun peeking over pine-blan ­ keted mountaintops." Today is a miracle !" spoke a young, enthu ­ siastic voice behind me. I turned toward the radiant face of my teen-aged friend." How ?" I asked her. I wasn't sure I could handle any early morning excitement." Think about it ," she smiled." The sun rose, didn't it ?"" Yeah" I found it easy to hide any enthusi ­ asm. It seemed to rise on every other morning with ­ out any help from me." That's a miracle! It is miraculous that the earth turns as it does. At night, the sun goes down and in ...

... even expect more from life. I had no idea that anyone would even notice and yet, she did. A perfect stranger opened my eyes, touched my heart and gave me a gift." Aren't you Bob ?" she asked." Yes, I'm Bob Perks ," I replied and reached out my hand to touch hers." I see you on television, don't I ?"" Yes, periodically"" I knew it was you. I was telling my friend as we walked by. I just knew it was you because of your smile. You always smile. Every time I see you, you're always smiling" My heart started pounding. My eyes opened wide. This perfect stranger touched me deep inside. It wasn't my ego or needing to boast. She did something wonderful that I needed most. She said," I have noticed that you always smile. I love that about you, I have for awhile. It ...

... Can You Pass The Triple Filter Test? When should you pass news on and when should you keep it to yourself? A scholar in ancient Baghdad was said to be unusually wise. One day an acquaintance met the great scholar and said," Do you know what I just heard about your friend ?"" Wait ," the scholar replied." Before you continue, let me ask a question. Is what you are about to tell me the truth ?"" I don't know ," the man said." All right ," said the scholar." You don't know if it's true. Let me ask another question. Is what you are about to tell me good ?"" No, it isn't !" the man replied." Then allow me to ask a third question. Is what you are about to tell useful to me ?" asked the scholar." No, it is not useful ," said the man. Then the scholar said ...

... Five Balls Imagine life as a game in which you are juggling some five balls in the air. You name them-Work-Family-Health-Friends-Spirit, and you're keeping all of these in the air. You will soon understand that work is a rubber ball. If you drop it, it will bounce back. But the other four balls-family, health, friends and spirit are made of glass. If you drop one of these, they will be irrevocably scuffed, marked, nicked, damaged or even shattered. They will never be the same. You must understand that and strive for balance in your life. How? Don't undermine your worth by comparing yourself with others. It is because we are different that each of us is special. Don't set your goals by what other people deem important. Only you know what is best for you. Don't take for granted the things closest to your heart. ...

... Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow Yesterday I met a stranger. Today this stranger is my friend. Had I not taken the time to say hello, or return a smile, or shake a hand, or listen, I would not have known this person. Yesterday would have turned into today and our chance meeting would be gone. Yesterday I hugged someone very dear to me. Today they are gone. and tomorrow will not bring them back. Wouldn't it be nice if we all knew tomorrow would be here? But this is not to be, so take the time TODAY to give a hug, a smile, an" I love you". JUST FOR TODAY, .smile at a stranger .listen to someone's heart .drop a coin where a child can find it .learn something new, then teach it to someone .tell someone you're thinking of them .hug a loved one .don't hold a grudge .don't be afraid to say" I'm sorry" .look ...

... AWE There is nothing quite like the break of day in the mountains during Summer. I walked out into one this morning surrounded by my four, furry friends. I could feel right away my dogs ’ excitement and joy too. The air was cool, fresh, and sweet. Its gentle breezes kissed my face the moment I opened the door. The sunshine was still hiding playfully behind the trees, but I could now see its golden light breaking though the leaves. Dew was still on the ground and the scent of wild flowers was tickling my nose. A white tailed rabbit was finishing breakfast in the tall grass near the woods. In the sky birds were soaring into the morning sunrise while hidden in the trees their feathered friends were singing songs of love to Heaven. It was so glorious and so awe-inspiring. My heart felt full to overflowing with God ’ s love and my soul seemed to expand in joy knowing that I too ...

... many errands to run, too much work to do and not enough time in the day to do it. I was rushed, stressed, and irritable. I even snapped at my kids to hurry up and get ready for school as I worried about how I was ever going to get everything done that day. It was then, however, that I got my gentle tap on the shoulder. Actually, it was more of a one two punch from my furry friends. As I stood there frowning with worry and tensed up with stress I felt a sticking in my left leg. At the same time my right hand suddenly felt warm and wet. I looked down and found one of my cats with her claws on my knee looking up with that scratch my head look in her eyes. When I turned to my right I saw my drooling Saint Bernard nuzzling in for a few pets himself. I smiled at my loving, furry friends ...

... " But we spent all week hunting for these moose ," they protested." And besides, the pilot we hired last year wasn't worried about the moose's weight" After much argument, the pilot finally relented and allowed them to load the moose. The heavy plane was only airborne for a few minutes when it lost altitude and crashed into the side of a mountain. As the men struggled out of the wreckage, one hunter asked," Where are we ?" His friend answered," About a mile farther than we got last year" Keep doing the same thing and you will keep getting the same results. It is true of flying and it is true of living. What is not working well for you? A habit you are trying to break? A relationship with a parent or spouse or child or friend? What is a source of on-going frustration? Getting around to that project you keep promising to complete? Never having enough money ...

... said to a new father," You have a cute baby"" I bet you say that to all the new parents ," smiled the proud daddy." No ," he replied," just to those whose babies really are good-looking"" So what do you say to the others ?" I say," He's the spittin ' image of you" Do you suppose they teach that in medical school? I'm told that a young mother enlisted the help of a friend in taking her infant identical twins to the doctor. Since the waiting area was full, the two women, each with a twin, were seated on opposite sides of the room. After a few minutes someone commented," It's amazing how much those two babies look alike !" The friend was quick to reply," Well, they should. They have the same father" I haven't heard whether the misunderstanding was ever straightened out. With identical twins, it's easy to ...

... Better To Give Than To Receive A young man, a student in one of our universities, was one day taking a walk with a professor, who was commonly called the student's friend, from his kindness to those who waited on his instructions. As they went along, they saw lying in the path a pair of old shoes, which they supposed to belong to a poor man who was employed in a field close by, and who had nearly finished his day's work. The student turned to the professor, saying:" Let us play the man a trick: we will hide his shoes, and conceal ourselves behind those bushes, and wait to see his perplexity when he cannot find them"" My young friend ," answered the professor," we should never amuse ourselves at the expense of the poor. But you are rich, and may give yourself a much greater pleasure by means of this poor man. Put a coin ...

... What's A Dime Worth Several years ago a pastor friend of mine moved to Houston, Texas. Some weeks after he arrived, he had occasion to ride the bus from his home to the down-town area. When he sat down, he discovered that the driver had accidentally given him ten cents too much change. As he considered what to do, there seemed to him to have these voices whispering instructions into his ears. One said," You better give the dime back. It would be wrong to keep it" Another voice said," Oh forget it. It's just ten cents. Who would worry about this little amount. Anyway, the bus company already gets too much fare. With their millions everyday they will never miss it. Accept it as a gift from God and keep quiet" When his stop came he paused momentarily at the front door, and, handing the driver the dime he said," Here ...

... but for some reason every single children's and preschool class was running late. No one had made it to the playground yet. He fired over 100 bullets into a crowd of over 400, but only 14 people were hit. He did not shoot the over 60 bullets he still had with him. The bottom fell off of the pipe bomb he threw, and the bomb landed without ever exploding. One of the youth that was wounded (she was shielding a disabled friend with her body) has scoliosis. The curve in her spine directed the bullet away from major organs, saving her from serious injury. Because the first 911 call came in on a police radio, emergency vehicles were dispatched immediately, without spending precious time to verify that call was real. One of the people in the church at the time was a paramedic, and he was able to stop bleeding and stabilize injured people before the emergency crews arrived. Leaders were able to ...

... What Do You Need To Unload? Every year, about 1500" thru-hikers" set out to walk the entire Appalachian Trail in a single season. Only 10 percent complete the 2, 160 miles of challenging terrain stretching from Georgia to Maine. One reason some people drop out early is that they haven't learned to travel light. A friend of mine launched his thru-hike carrying a seriously overloaded backpack. He had a cassette player and six tapes of bird calls, an air pistol to keep the varmints away, a camera, a radio, and an alarm clock." If it ran on batteries ," he said," I had one in my pack" At his first stop, an experienced hiker helped him go through his pack and decide what to keep and what to send home. Each item was placed on a gram scale with the question," Is it worth it? Do you want to carry this for the next 2000 miles ...

... Warm Worms You may have heard the old story about the world's most dedicated fisherman. He had out-fished his companion all morning long. They used the same live bait, the same equipment and fished together in the same mountain stream. But he had almost caught his limit of fish while his friend had yet to catch even one." What's your secret ?" asked the friend." I haven't even gotten a bite !" The angler mumbled an unintelligible answer, causing his companion to ask again. The successful fisherman emptied the contents of his mouth into a cupped hand and replied:" I said, 'You have to keep your worms warm" Talk about dedication. But did you know there are at least three types of fresh water fishermen (or fisherwomen, if that fits better )? First, there are those who fish for sport. They like to" catch and release ," quickly throwing their catch back into the water. For these anglers ...

... luck that God put you in my path this morning to remind me how blessed I really am. Blessed to be here to help you. Blessed because I can use both of my arms. Blessed because I have been given a gift of compassion which has opened my eyes to others in a world that is blind to suffering" I returned to the counter to place my coffee order. The young woman was unaware of the conversation that had just transpired between my newfound friend and myself. I wanted to share it with her. I thought perhaps it would open her eyes to his misfortune." He had a stroke and that's why he is moving and speaking so slowly" She nodded and said, "$ 1.29. Will that be all today ?" I handed her the money, took my coffee and waved goodbye to my new friend who was smiling and enjoying his bagel. Why is it that we cannot see the suffering around us? Have ...

... you mind closing the door ?" Puzzled, the minister shut the door." I have never told anyone this, not even my daughter ," said the man." But all of my life I have never known how to pray"" At church I used to hear the pastor talk about prayer, but it went right over my head"" I abandoned any attempt at prayer ," the old man continued," until one day four years ago, my best friend said to me," Johnny, prayer is just a simple matter of having a conversation with Jesus"" Here is what I suggest ," he said." Sit down in a chair; place an empty chair in front of you, and in faith see Jesus on the chair. It's not spooky because he promised, 'I will be with you always"" Then just speak to him in the same way you're doing with me right now"" So, I ...

... in life begin with a positive attitude-the faith that we can do it. I've never stopped encouraging people to discover the power of a positive attitude. I spoke recently at a sixth-grade graduation ceremony and delivered one of the talks I've been giving for decades called" The Three A's: Atmosphere, Attitude and Action" We can choose to put ourselves in a positive atmosphere that encourages a positive attitude that leads to positive action. I told them they can stay with friends who tell them they can't or choose friends who tell them they can. I was speaking to another class of sixth-graders about my heart transplant and the topic led to a discussion about fears. One girl said she was afraid of the dark. I told her I was afraid of the dark, too. We all have dark areas in life that we fear-illness, job loss, financial worries, doubts about our abilities, the state of our economy or the world's ...

... ’ s meanness and greed on the other hand reflected all that is wrong with our society today. I found myself aching with George as he saw how terrible the world would be without him. I found myself praying along with him as he asked God to please let him live again. I found myself laughing and cheering too as the movie came to its beautiful ending. I even found myself singing along in its last minutes as George was surrounded by his family and friends in a room overflowing with love and joy. This blessing of a movie made me think that this world could use a few more George Bailey ’ s and a lot less Mr. Potter ’ s in it. This world needs to see again that people are more important than profits, that kindness is more valuable than cash, that friends and family mean more than stocks and bonds, and that goodness and love are the greatest riches of all. I wish all of ...

... you still have hope. If the sight of a rainbow still makes you stop and stare in wonder, then you still have hope. If the soft fur of a favored pet still feels pleasant under your fingertips, then you still have hope. If you meet new people with a trace of excitement and optimism, then you still have hope. If you give people the benefit of a doubt, then you still have hope. If you still offer your hand in friendship to others that have touched your life, then you still have hope. If receiving an unexpected card or letter still brings a pleasant surprise, then you still have hope. If the suffering of others still fills you with pain and frustration, then you still have hope. If you refuse to let a friendship die, or accept that it must end, then you still have hope. If you look forward to a time or place of quiet and reflection, then you ...

... my mind today where learned in her class. It was the songs that she sang during those Sunday services, however, that live on in my heart. I can still hear her sweet guitar and joyful voice leading us in the hymns we sang. Her music and her spirit were full of Heaven ’ s fire. They brightened you up, warmed you up, and lighted a fire in your own soul as well. My hymn leader, music teacher, and friend moved away before I was old enough to truly appreciate all that she meant to me. I never got to really thank her for lighting a candle inside of me with her generous fire. I never got to let her know that she started a song in my heart that still goes on today. I just pray that where ever she is that she gets to read this and knows how grateful we all are to her for burning so bright. The most important thing that ...

... The Value Of A Penny Several years ago, a friend and her husband were invited to spend the weekend at the husband's employer's home. The woman was nervous about the weekend. The boss was very wealthy, with a fine home on the waterway, and cars costing more than her house. The first day and evening went well, and my friend was delighted to have this rare glimpse into how the very wealthy live. The husband's employer was quite generous as a host, and took them to the finest restaurants. Knowing she would never have the opportunity to indulge in this kind of extravagance again, she was enjoying herself immensely. As the three of them were about to enter an exclusive restaurant that evening, the boss was walking slightly ahead of his guests. He stopped suddenly, looking down on the pavement for a long, silent moment. There was nothing on the ground except a single darkened penny that someone had dropped, and ...

... community, are curious about the latest arrival in their building-a quiet, nice looking gentleman who keeps to himself. Shirley says ," Sophie, you know I'm shy. Why don't you go over to him at the pool and find out a little about him. He looks so lonely" Sophie agrees, and later that day at the pool, she walks up to him and says," Excuse me, mister. I hope I'm not prying, but my friend and I were wondering why you looked so lonely"" Of course I'm lonely, he says," I've spent the past 20 years in prison"" You're kidding! What for ?"" For killing my third wife. I strangled her"" What happened to your second wife ?"" I shot her"" And, if I may ask, your first wife ?"" We had a fight and she fell off a building"" Oh my ," says Sophie ...

... Alphabets Of Happiness A -Accept Accept others for who they are and for the choices they've made even if you have difficulty understanding their beliefs, motives, or actions. B -Break Away Break away from everything that stands in the way of what you hope to accomplish with your life. C -Create Create a family of friends whom you can share your hopes, dreams, sorrows, and happiness with. D -Decide Decide that you'll be successful and happy come what may, and good things will find you. The roadblocks are only minor obstacles along the way. E -Explore Explore and experiment. The world has much to offer, and you have much to give. And every time you try something new, you'll learn more about yourself. F -Forgive Forgive and forget. Grudges only weigh you down and inspire unhappiness and grief. Soar above it, and remember that everyone makes mistakes. G -Grow Leave the childhood monsters behind. They can no longer ...

... always be new opportunities for you to step out in front again. Divide big jobs into little jobs If God took six days to create the universe, can you do any better? Direct your life with purposeful choices, not with speed and efficiency The best musician is one who plays with expression and meaning, not the one who finishes first. Take a day off alone Make a retreat. You can learn from monks and hermits without becoming one. Pet a furry friend You will give and get the gift of now. Work with your hands It frees the mind. Take time to wonder Without wonder, life is merely an existence. Sit in the dark It will treat you to see and hear, taste and smell. Once in awhile Turn down the lights, The throttle, The invitations. Less really can be more. Let go Nothing is usually the hardest thing to do .but often it is the best. Taste your food God ...

... ABC's of Friendship A ccepts you as you are B elieves in" you" C alls you just to! say" HI" D oesn't give up on you E nvisions the whole of you (even the unfinished parts) F orgives your mistakes G ives unconditionally H elps you I nvites you over J ust" be" with you K eeps you close at heart L oves you for who you are M akes a difference in your life N ever Judges O ffers support P icks you up Q uiets your fears R aises your spirits S ays nice things about you T ells you the truth when you need to hear it U nderstands you V alues you W alks beside you X -plains things you don't understand Y ells when you won't listen and Z aps you back to reality [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Inspiretoday @topica.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... God kept me growing, learning, and becoming the person I was meant to be. Life was my school, troubles were my teachers, and the twists and turns of this world were my courses. The classes continue on as well for me, you, and everyone here. These days I try not to think of what I want out of life but think of what I can give to life instead. I strive to be a loving father, a caring friend, and a good neighbor. I seek to do what I can with what I have to make Earth a little more like Heaven and to show others that they can do the same. I try to share all the things I have learned these past 27 years: that God loves us more than we could ever dream, that we can love each other as well, and that when we do so we will have JOY no matter what struggles we may face or losses ...

... Children Learn When children learn that happiness is not found in what a person has but in who that person is. When they learn that giving and forgiving are more rewarding than taking and avenging. When they learn that suffering is not eased by self-pity, but overcome by inner resolve and spiritual strength. When they learn that they can't control the world around them, that they are the masters of their own soul. When they learn that relationships will prosper if they value friendship over ego, compromise over pride, and listening over advising. When they learn not to hate a person whose difference they fear, but to fear that kind of hate. When they learn that there is pleasure in the power of lifting others up, not in the pseudo power of pushing them down. When they learn that praise from others is flattering but meaningless if it not matched by self-respect. When they learn that the value of a life is best measured not by ...

... What ’ s Waiting For Us At Home When I was a little boy I used to wait for that final bell to ring at the end of the school day. As much as I enjoyed school and being with my friends I always looked forward to getting on that school bus and heading home. Once I got dropped off I would almost run across the old, shaky, swinging bridge that spanned the river and led to my house. I would open the door with a big smile on my face too because I knew what would be waiting for me: a warm home, a warm meal, and a warm hug. After I grew up and had children of my own I always tried to have those 3 things waiting for them as well. They knew too that anytime they visited their grandparents or great-grandparents that they would get more of the same. It was, after all, a family tradition. Of the three, however ...

... day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently. Thrive on attention and let people touch you. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do. On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree. When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body. Delight in the simple joys of a long walk. No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout. run right back and make friends. John 15: 12 (NIV)" This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you" [Author unknown-from Sky Pup] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... about it. My Uncle would even joke that we had to visit more often because that was the only time my Aunt ever fed him this good. We knew, however, that my Uncle was just cooking up some humor of his own. The thing that made those Summer trips south to their house so wonderful wasn ’ t just what they cooked in the kitchen but what they cooked in their hearts and home as well. Their lives together were a feast of friendship, laughter, love, and joy. They always had a dessert tray full of goodness, kindness, and faith as well. And anytime life would throw something nasty in their soup pot they would just ladle it out with a little love and a lot of forgiveness. Every time we would visit them we would go back home with not just full bellies but full souls too. What ’ s cooking in your life? Are you fixing up a delightful meal for all ...

... Sleeping In Class I can still remember it like it was yesterday. I was a college freshman and had stayed up most of the night before laughing and talking with friends. Now just before my first class of the day my eyelids were feeling heavier and heavier and my head was drifting down to my desk to make my textbook a pillow. A few minutes nap time before class couldn ’ t hurt, I thought. BOOM! My head jerked up and my eyes snapped open wider than saucers. I looked around with my heart pounding trying to find the cause of the noise. My young professor was looking back at me with a mischievous, boyish grin on his face. He had intentionally dropped the stack of textbooks he was carrying onto his podium." Good morning !", he said still smiling." I am glad to see everyone is awake. Now let ’ s get started" For the next hour I wasn ’ t sleepy ...

... But you probably learned by being burned. Sometimes we only learn the value of something, health, money and a relationship. By losing it." It was the best thing that could have happened to me, for it taught me to pay attention to your laws" Psalm 119: 71-72 (LB) God uses problems to PROTECT you. A problem can be a blessing in disguise if it prevents you from being harmed by something more serious. Last year a friend was fired for refusing to do something unethical that his boss had asked him to do. His unemployment was a problem-but it saved him from being convicted and sent to prison a year later when management's actions were eventually discovered." You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good" Genesis 50: 20 (NIV) God uses problems to PERFECT you. Problems, when responded to correctly, are character builders. God is far more interested in your ...

... Strength Vs Courage It takes strength to be firm. It takes courage to be gentle. It takes strength to stand guard. It takes courage to let down your guard. It takes strength to conquer. It takes courage to surrender. It takes strength to be certain. It takes courage to have doubt. It takes strength to fit in. It takes courage to stand out. It takes strength to feel a friend's pain. It takes courage to feel your own pain. It takes strength to hide your own pains. It takes courage to show them. It takes strength to endure abuse. It takes courage to stop it. It takes strength to stand alone. It takes courage to lean on another. It takes strength to love. It takes courage to be loved. It takes strength to survive. It takes courage to live. [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Inspiretoday @topica.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All ...

... we did not have reservations. The other lady then looked at her co-worker and said," This is going to happen a few times tonight" They went on to explain that the restaurant was new and not open that night. I glanced at all the people sitting at tables, enjoying themselves, and eating my food. Our greeters then told us how the night was just a practice for the staff and kitchen crew before opening for real. Only people who were friends of employees, and on their list, were being served and eating that night. I told the ladies that I didn't mind eating at the restaurant while they practiced-even if they happened to be rude to me. But no, we weren't in the in crowd and that meant no food for us. Before we left they invited us to come back next week. As I look back on my initial feelings at being turned away from that restaurant, I can't help ...

... their roots are actually shallow-they spread out wide in search of surface water. And they reach in all directions, intertwining with roots of other redwoods. Locked together in this way, all the trees support each other in wind and storms. Aspens and redwoods never stand alone. They need one another to survive. People, too, are connected by a system of roots. We grow up in families that nurture and guide us. We learn early to make friends who support us in different ways. We are not meant to survive long without others. And like the giant redwoods, we do best when we hold onto one another and help each other to keep standing through life's storms. We need others to hold us up, encourage us and to stand with us. When I'm not doing well, it is often because I am going it alone. I don't always let others in. I forget to ask for help; I ...

... wrote:" I started to slow down but the traffic was more stationary than I thought" You know, stationary traffic can be like that. Another client reported," Windscreen broken. Cause unknown. Probably Voodoo" Voodoo would be a worry. Before he became an actor, Ray Liotta worked in a cemetery." I had a hundred people under me, and it was quiet ," he fondly remembers. Actually, that doesn't sound half bad. I have friends in the medical industry. She is a pharmacist and he is a sales rep for a pharmaceutical company. When I first met them I asked what they did for a living. He said," She make drugs and I sell them" I like the idea of injecting some play into work. And one of the great benefits is this: when our work is more fun, we like it better. And when we like it better, we do it better. ...

... Precious Moments I probably golf about as well as a slug wages war. In fact, out of consideration for my friends (I embarrass them ), I quit playing with anybody I know. It was too hard for them to watch. But I can still appreciate what a golf enthusiast said about the game. He listed three mental techniques to improve one's golf game. And the great part is this: these techniques not only help to improve a game, they can help all of us live better lives. They are mental attitudes that can help you and me live more in the moment and less in the past or the future. Here they are … golf tips for better living. Resist the urge to add up your score as you go along. If you anticipate your score, you'll be distracted from the task at hand. In other words, live more in the present. Clear your mind of past mistakes and even past successes ...

... My physical eyes have decided that love is a glorious color and are now more quick to join in this vision than they were in the past. Inner eyes insist on loving experiences. They always seek and find love, even in situations where the physical eyes would definitely not choose love. As a result, joy always surrounds each experience viewed by the inner eyes. My soul ’ s eyes have taught me that love and joy go hand in hand, like lifetime friends that will never part. When you ’ re living from your heart, you ’ re allowing your inner eyes to shine. You ’ re letting love go before you into all aspects of your daily life, to pave your path with joy. As the Universe would have it, the act of putting this love forth leaves you open to receiving it back tenfold. It ’ s really that simple. See your life as full of love and joy. Show love in ...

... Hatch found out that the candy heart had been delivered to him by mistake. He felt crushed and began again to withdraw from the world. When his neighbors found out, however, they were determined not to lose the light he shared. They surprised him with a party and a huge banner that read:" Everybody Loves Mr. Hatch" Mr. Hatch cried when he realized that somebody loved him after all. Then he laughed, smiled, and rejoined his friends. I think that we all have a tiny bit of Mr. Hatch in us. At times we all feel unloved and unlovable. Somebody does love us, though. God loves us. He loves us with a powerful, unconditional, and life-changing love and He wants us to love each other as well. It is what we are here for. It is what we were meant for. May the pages of your life story be full of love then.~ ...

... said to the reporter," But look at my arms. I have great scars on my arms, too. I have them because my mom wouldn't let go" You and I can identify with that little boy. We have scars, too. No, not from an alligator, or anything quite so dramatic. But, the scars of a painful past. Some of those scars are unsightly and have caused us deep regret. But, some wounds, my friend, are because God has refused to let go. In the midst of your struggle, He's been there holding on to you. The Scripture teaches that God loves you. If you have Christ in your life, you have become a child of God. He wants to protect you and provide for you in every way. But sometimes we foolishly wade into dangerous situations. The swimming hole of life is filled with peril-and we forget that the enemy is waiting to ...

... ? No, he decides-and cancels the ad. A young singer gives up a promising career on the stage to sing at tent meetings on Skid Row. A young heiress takes in a homeless woman, to the horror of her fashionable family. A businessman decides that Jesus wants him to make his tenements as warm and comfortable as his own home. Some of these people pay a high price for their obedience. They loose jobs, fortunes, family, and friends-just as Jesus warned. But they also learn the joy of following faithfully in His footsteps. A few years ago, a youth leader in Holland, Michigan was so inspired by this classic that she had bracelets made bearing the letters" WWJD" and gave them to the kids in her church. The idea caught fire, and today millions of kids wear them. If your kids are among them, ask them if they know the story behind the bracelets. If ...

... Richness Of Living My aunt is really rich. She doesn ’ t have a big bank account, though. Still, I have known her to share the last penny in it to help someone in need. She doesn ’ t have a fancy, new car either, but she gets the most out of her old, used one giving rides to friends who can no longer drive themselves. Her home is no mansion. Yet, my childhood visits to it have filled my mind with treasured memories and my heart with priceless happiness. My aunt ’ s riches come instead from the places that high prices and inflation can never lessen. My aunt ’ s riches come from her loving soul, her generous spirit, and her joyous life. Every time I speak with her on the phone or get a card from her in the mail the richness of that life shines though. Her gentle laughter has brightened my day many times over the years ...

... a bible with you to read while waiting in line. Get enough exercise. Eat right. Get organized so everything has its place. Listen to a tape while driving that can help improve your quality of life. Write thoughts and inspirations down. Everyday, find time to be alone. Having problems? Talk to God on the spot. Try to nip small problems in the bud. Don't wait until its time to go to bed to try and pray. Make friends with Godly people. Keep a folder of favorite scriptures on hand. Remember that the shortest bridge between despair and hope is often a Good" Thank you Jesus !" Laugh. Laugh some more! Take your work seriously, but yourself not at all. Develop a forgiving attitude (most people are doing the best they can). Be kind to unkind people (they probably need it the most). Sit on your ego. Talk less; listen more. Slow down ...

... Bible with you to read while waiting in line. Get enough rest. Eat right. Get organized so everything has its place. Listen to a tape while driving that can help improve your quality of life. Write down thoughts and inspirations. Every day, find time to be alone. Having problems? Talk to God on the spot. Try to nip small problems in the bud. Don't wait until it's time to go to bed to try and pray. Make friends with Godly people. Keep a folder of favorite scriptures on hand. Remember that the shortest bridge between despair and hope is often a good" Thank you Jesus" Laugh. Laugh some more! Take your work seriously, but not yourself at all. Develop a forgiving attitude (most people are doing the best they can). Be kind to unkind people (they probably need it the most). Sit on your ego. Talk less; listen more. Slow down ...

... recommend Hebrews 11 ), rolling the ball in the flour until fully covered. Place it under a veil of belief and allow it to rise. Put it in an oven that has been pre-set at the perfect temperature for the heat of trials and tribulations. Allow it to brown under the warmth of God's love. Remove after due season and allow to cool in the confidence of His promise. Garnish with your praises. Arrange neatly on a platter of thankfulness and serve to friends, families and, oh yes, strangers... invite them too! Pass on the recipe to all who request it and let them know that with this recipe, they have the makings of a miracle! [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... The Young Man And The Leper There is a story from the Middle Ages that has always touched my heart. The grown son of a rich merchant was walking down the road towards his home after visiting friends. As he neared a curb he heard the ring of a leper ’ s bell coming from the other way. At that time Leprosy was a highly contagious and incurable disease. Lepers were not allowed in the towns and were forced to ring bells and warn others of their approach as they walked the roads. Before the young man could leave the road the leper rounded the curb and was suddenly face to face with him. The leper ’ s face and body had become horribly disfigured by the disease and when the young man saw him he drew back in disgust. As the leper lowered his head and began to walk on, however, the young man felt his heart breaking for the man. He quickly caught up to the leper ...

... to me, You're someone I trust. I treasure the topics, That we have discussed. I'm thankful for times, You have summoned a smile. I'm grateful our paths, Have converged for a while. I'm pleased by each confidence, You have displayed. I cherish these moments, You've sought to persuade. I'm touched by the gestures, Of kindness you've shown. I've noticed how fast, All our hours have flown. I'm feeling the force, Of a friendship that's true. I'm fortunate knowing, A person like you. [Author Unknown-from 'Love Quotes ' (lovequotes @charter.net)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... balance becomes. And the opposite is also true. Whenever we break our word and lose trust, it is like withdrawing money from an account. Except that what we withdraw is goodwill. Now imagine that you have a separate trust fund with every person you know. If you have been making regular deposits into your account with that individual, when the time comes that you disappoint, you will still have a large enough balance of goodwill to cover the debt. That friend, son or mother will realize that your account is still good. You are a person of good intent. You are reliable and trustworthy. Scottish writer George MacDonald said," To be trusted is a greater compliment than to be loved" Whether or not that is true, I would rather have a healthy emotional trust fund than a large bank account. Trust is more valuable than money – and it builds strong relationships. Are your trust funds growing?~Steve Goodier ...

... the birds and I take great delight in their multicolored hues, especially in the spring. I drag a chair to stand on so that I can fill the feeders to the brim. I say a little prayer, as I wobble, a little cock-eyed on the chair, and I laugh, at myself, and all the pretensions of my younger life. I take great delight in my life. I thank God for all the precious little things of every day. Friends. Family. Neighbors. And health-a health of the soul. For I have come to understand what real health is, and when you have REAL health, then you truly have everything. [Jaye Lewis (jlewis @smyth.net)-from 'Heartwarmers '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... of your national beauty contest. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize. Name the last half-dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress. Name the last decade ’ s national or world champions in your favorite sport. These people, of course, are the best in their fields. But fame is fleeting and outstanding performance is too soon forgotten. Now try another quiz: List a few teachers who aided your journey through school. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with. Name half a dozen heroes whose stories have inspired you. If you found the second quiz easier, it may be because those people who make a difference in our lives are not the ones with the best degrees or pedigrees, nor are they the ...

... Your Work Is A Gift Work sometimes has a bad reputation in our world. But there is something worse than work, and that is boredom. At least that is what Drs. Kathryn Rost and G. Richard Smith of the University of Arkansas say. After analyzing the mental health of heart attack survivors, they concluded that one factor which greatly reduced the chances of depression was going back to work. And why not? At work we are often around friends, and people with strong relationships will almost always fare better mentally. But we humans also need to be useful and productive! Arthur Kroeger wrote in Quote magazine (August 1994) that his brother sometimes visited an Anabaptist colony in southern Alberta, Canada. During one visit he asked leaders how they dealt with the problem of misbehavior-when people rebelled against the colony's strict rules. He was told that these people were first asked to correct their behavior. If they did not respond ...

... a little faith, rolling the ball in love until fully covered. Place it under a veil of belief and allow it to rise. Now put it in an oven that has been pre-set at the perfect temperature for the heat of trials and tribulations. Allow it to brown under the warmth of God's love. Remove after due season and allow to cool in the confidence of His promise. Garnish with your praises. Arrange neatly on a platter of thankfulness and serve to friends, families and, oh yes, strangers... invite them too! Pass on this recipe to all who request it and let them know that with this recipe, they can have the makings of a miracle! Addendum-Hebrews 11: 6 (NIV)" And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him" [Author Unknown-from George E ...

... hope I'm not telling you anything new when I say that talking about the reasons you're down, making needed changes, watching your diet, getting enough exercise and sleep, developing a positive mental outlook and utilizing spiritual resources are all important pieces of our emotional puzzles. But one important strategy for feeling better (and one that's LEAST used) is as important as the rest. It is helping others in need. Visit a shut-in neighbor. Write a letter. Call a friend who has been struggling. Volunteer at church, synagogue or the local food pantry. Rake someone's leaves. Bake homemade bread for a new neighbor. Wash your spouse's car. Volunteer to baby-sit for a young mother. Plan an unexpected act of kindness. Give a gift for no reason at all. The needs are abundant, and those who put aside some regular time to do something kind for others will often forget they were feeling low. Why does is work? I ...

... Sammy's Big Catch (Good message-'Sad ' ending) Sammy was a good-looking young boy who lived in the deep south. His summer days were filled with times of walking through the woods, playing with friends, and fishing in the pond down the dirt road Fishing was by far his favorite thing to do. Just about every day during his summer vacation, he would dig up some worms and head off, pole in hand, for a day of fishing. This steamy hot day was like most others during Sammy's summer break. Waking early, he could hear the pond calling him to come fish. Sammy quietly walked out the front door, grabbed his pitchfork and worm pail from the porch, and walked into the woods to search for bait. He turned over old stumps and dug under leaves hoping to find worms. Under one old stump he hit the jackpot. The ground was writhing. In two minutes he had all the ...

... John Wesley's Holy Club asked himself these twenty-two questions every day during his private devotions. Are YOU up for it ?? Am I honest in all my acts and words, or do I exaggerate? Am I consciously or unconsciously creating the impression that I am better than I really am? In other words, am I a hypocrite? Do I confidently pass on to another what I was told in confidence? Can I be trusted? Am I a slave to dress, friends, work, or habits? Am I self-conscious, self-pitying, or self-justifying? Did the Bible live in me today? Do I give it time to speak to me every day? Am I enjoying prayer? When did I last speak to someone else of my faith? Do I pray about the money I spend? Do I get to bed on time and get up on time? Do I disobey God in anything? Do I insist upon doing something about which my ...

... to crumple the dollar bill up. He then asked," Who still wants it ?" Still the hands were up in the air." Well ," he replied," What if I do this ?" He dropped it on the floor, and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked up the $20 bill, now all crumpled and dirty." Now who still wants it ?" Still the hands went into the air." My friends, you have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value. It is still worth $20. Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or what will happen, you will never ...

... this world and welcome it into my soul. My ears may not be as acute, but I can still listen to the birds sing, the laughter of children, and the glorious music that uplifts my spirit and warms my heart. My nose may no longer be as sensitive, but I can still smell the flowers in the Spring and the homemade spaghetti sauce simmering on the stove. My teeth may be a bit worn, but they can still share smiles with friends and strangers alike. My lips are a little thinner now, but they can still say kind words and share loving thoughts. My arms aren ’ t as strong as they once were, but they can still lend others a helping hand and share a caring hug. My aging fingers too will keep writing these words of love that God blesses me with and my tired legs will keep carrying me where I need to go, to do what I need to do, to ...

... . We like being valued for what we do and who we are. American football coach Bum Phillips lives in a world where one can become a hero or a heel in an amazingly short time. One mediocre season and a coach, even a good one, can be out of a job. Like Phillips once said," There's only two kinds of coaches-them that's been fired and them that's about to be fired" Sounds like they might want to make friends with rejection. Few things hold people back more than the fear of rejection. They don't ask for what they need because the answer may be no. They don't ask their boss for a raise or for more time off. They don't ask for help. They are afraid to be the first to say" I love you" (what if they don't hear" I love you" back ?). They don't ask for a better deal or a lower interest rate. ...

... ? What lyrics are you going to sing? What notes are you going to play? Are you going to add to the sweet morning music that is so often around you or are you going to lend your voice to the disharmony that often comes your way? The choice is yours. You can start your mornings with prayerful lyrics of love and thanks to your Heavenly Father who made you. You can fill your days with a melody of kind words for family, friends, and strangers alike. You can send a silent chorus of well wishes to every soul you pass on the street. You can share the harmony of help and happiness with your neighbors and the whole world. You can make your entire life such a sweet song of love that every angel in Heaven will want to sing along.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2009 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] ...

... The End" Do you believe that this is the end of days ?" That was the question a friend wrote me a few days ago. It is a question that I have gotten a lot of times over the years. With all the wars, tornados, earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, fires, and nuclear meltdowns we are facing these days, it is easy to understand why people would wonder and ask as well. The truth is noone knows when the last days of this world will be. Noone knows when their own last day will be either. All that we can do is to live each day we have here to the fullest with love, kindness, goodness, joy, and oneness with God. This is why I start each day by saying," Good morning God, thank you for my life !" This is why I watch every sunrise and sunset I can. This is why I stop to smell the flowers ...

... or is wounded by gunshot, and falls out, two geese fall out of formation and follow him down to help and protect him. They stay with him until he is either able to fly or until he is dead, and then they launch out on their own or with another formation until they catch up with their group. Final Truth-If we have the sense of a goose, we will stand by each other, protect one another and sometimes make new friends who seem to be going in our direction. [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Inspiretoday @topica.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... " and a hug from my son too. Then as I went out to get the morning newspaper it came through loud and clear with a dazzling sunrise and a chorus of birdsong. Later in the day I also heard it hiding in the sweet music coming from the radio and the not so sweet sound of my own voice singing along. As I was bringing my boys home from school it came to me once more this time in the smile and wave of my friend and neighbor who lives down the hill from me. This whisper was the gentle voice of God saying," I love you my child ", and every time I heard it I could feel my heart grow warmer and my soul shine brighter. It took me a long time to see just how much, how often, and in how many ways God whispers His love for us everyday. His love for us is everywhere, in everything, and flows through all of us ...

... The Way We Affect Others We may not always realize that everything we do, affects not only our lives, but touches others too. A single happy smile can always brighten up the day, for anyone who happens to be passing by your way. And a little bit of thoughtfulness that shows someone you care, creates a ray of sunshine for both of you to share. Yes, every time you offer someone a helping hand, every time you show a friend you understand. Every time you have a kind and gentle word to give, you help someone to find beauty in this precious life we live. For happiness brings happiness and loving ways bring love, and giving is the treasure, that contentment is made of. [Author Unknown-from (Inspiretoday @topica.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Thoughts Of Heaven My thoughts have been on heaven a lot lately. I have a quote on my board above my writing desk, in my room that goes some what like this:" A woman of wisdom guards her heart and diligently keeps her eyes upon her home and heaven" When we are focused upon heaven, all the little mundane chores of life become sparkled with a heavenly brilliance, that will last throughout eternity. When we love the family and friends God has given to us, with all of our hearts; we will have blessings showered down from Heaven. Yesterday was the hardest day I have had in some time. I had this void within my heart all day -it would not leave me alone. It was the type of void that we try to fill with earthly desires: coffee, chocolate, sex, drugs, movies, getting angry, yelling, hitting, and the list goes on. It was gnawing at ...

... Love is the only thing that can be divided, without being diminished. Happiness is enhanced by others but does not depend upon others. You are richer today if you have laughed, given or forgiven. For every minute you are angry with someone, you lose 60 seconds of happiness that you can never get back. Do what you can, for who you can, with what you have, and where you are. The best gifts to give: To your friend, loyalty; To your enemy, forgiveness; To your boss, service; To a child, a good example; To your parents, gratitude and devotion; To your mate, love and faithfulness; To all men and women, charity; and To God, your life. [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Tomorrow Is Not Promised Sometimes people come into your life and you know right away that they were meant to be there, they serve some sort of purpose; teach you a lesson, or help figure out who you are, and who you want to become. You never know who these people may be: your neighbor, child, long lost friend, or even a stranger who, when you lock eyes with them, you know at that very moment that they will affect your life, in some profound way. And sometimes things happen to you, and at the time they seem painful and unfair, but in reflection you realize, that without overcoming those obstacles, you would have never realized your potential strength, or your hearts desire. Everything happens for a reason. Nothing happens by chance or by means of good or bad luck. Illness, injury, love, lost moments of true greatness, as well as experiencing sheer stupidity ...

... your neighborhood? Let's share the fragrance of Christ -a smile, a hug, some warm baked cookes, a small gift -something that says," Smile .God loves you .and I do too. Think about it -do it -and you will have a WONDERFUL day!~Peggie C. Bohanon~All Rights Reserved Scripture: Matthew 25: 34-40-Ministering to the" Rose's" of Our World! Prayer:" Lord, You have blessed me with a family, friends, and the fragrance of Your love outpoured to me. Help me to share that fragrance with a lonely person this Christmas, In Jesus Name, Amen" [by: Peggie C. Bohanon Copyright 2005-from 'Fun-n-Faith ' news letter {used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... I will make a difference. I will spend time with those I love. My spouse, my children, my family. A man can own the world but be poor for the lack of love. A man can own nothing and yet be wealthy in relationships. Today I will spend at least five minutes with the significant people in my world. Five quality minutes of talking or hugging or thanking or listening. Five undiluted minutes with my mate, children, and friends. Today I will make a difference. Even though my life is scarred with mistakes, I refuse to rummage through my trash heap of failure. I will admit them. I will correct them. I will press on. [by: Max Lucado (ministry @maxlucado.com)-submitted by: Kimberly Patterson] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... dog curled up at my feet. Now days you won't find me watching so much television either. I find that time better spent going for walks, hugging my sons, talking with my daughter, and writing words like the ones you are reading here. Now days you won't find me restlessly looking for more work to do as well. I find that time better spent thinking of God, watching the sunset, singing a song, and laughing with my family and friends. The funny thing too is that now that I am giving myself time to live I find myself doing better and accomplishing more than I ever did before. Most of all, though, my time is now spent joyously and my days on Earth feel closer to Heaven. Abraham Lincoln said," It's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years" May all of us then have the time of our lives truly living the days and ...

... The Fable Of Mary Lin A modernized Chinese fable tells of Mary Lin, who was widely-known as a holy woman. She was a kind mother, a devoted wife, a loyal friend, an active part of her community of faith and a concerned neighbor to those in need. She visited the lonely who had nobody. She assisted the ill, caring for them however she could. She baked for new families who moved to her community. She befriended children and always had time to listen when anybody needed an ear. Mary Lin was busy and contented. And when she died, everyone who knew her believed she would go to heaven. If there was no heaven, one would certainly be prepared for her, they agreed. Mary Lin stood at heaven's gate. She was welcomed into a city alive with many voices of joy and praise. A gentle feeling of rest came over her, for here there were no worries, no tears ...

... , side road that I used to walk along as a teenager. I wasn ’ t quite sure where I was headed, but I felt very determined to get there. Like in many dreams time seemed fluid and people seemed ageless. As I walked along I kept meeting people from both my past and my present. I saw both my Mom and my Grandma who have passed away and was able to give them both one more hug. I ran into many childhood friends and we talked, joked, and laughed just like we were kids again. Still, I kept walking hoping to reach wherever I was headed. Around every curve, though, there was something new. I saw strangers in need and stopped to help them. I found ancient books and gemstones along the side of the road and shared them with others. I met a smiling, old man who happily shared his life ’ s wisdom with me and then I lovingly passed ...

... through each day on the fly? When you ask" How are you ?" do you hear the reply? When the day is done, do you lie in your bed with the next hundred chores running through your head? You'd better slow down; don't dance so fast; time is short-the music won't last. Ever told your child we'll do it tomorrow and in your haste, not see his or her sorrow? Ever lost touch, let a good friendship die 'cause you never had time to call and say hi? When you run so fast to get somewhere, you miss half the fun of getting there. When you worry and hurry through your day, it is like an unopened gift .thrown away. You'd better slow down; don't dance so fast; time is short-the music won't last. [Author unknown-received from Chris Long at 'Laugh & Lift ' (www.laughandlift.com)] Cartoons Daily Inspiration HOME Humor Poems ...

... its prey. The farmer's wife rushed to see what was caught. In the darkness, she did not see that it was a venomous snake whose tail the trap had caught. The snake bit the farmer's wife. The farmer rushed her to the hospital. She returned home with a fever. Now everyone knows you treat a fever with fresh chicken soup, so the farmer took his hatchet to the farmyard for the soup's main ingredient. His wife's sickness continued so that friends and neighbors came to sit with her around the clock. To feed them, the farmer butchered the pig. The farmer's wife did not get well, in fact, she died, and so many people came for her funeral the farmer had the cow slaughtered to provide meat for all of them to eat. So the next time you hear that someone is facing a problem and think that it does not concern you, remember that when the least of us is threatened, ...

... The Longest Line The longest line that I ever stood in wasn ’ t in a store. It wasn ’ t to see a movie or a concert either. It wasn ’ t even in the Department of Motor Vehicles. The longest line I ever stood in was at my friend Tim ’ s wake. Tim had died a young man and his loss had shocked our small community. When I arrived at the wake I was amazed to see the line stretching from inside the small funeral home to down the street as far as the eye could see. People had come from hundreds of miles away to be there and to offer their love to Tim one last time. I saw people there that I hadn ’ t seen since high school and others whom I had thought I would never see again. The line moved slowly forward as we waited and shared our memories of Tim. We talked about how funny he had always been without ever ...

... lined up to go out the teacher always put me beside you and you would hold my hand as we crossed the street. You talked to me and played with me. When you were around too the other kids didn ’ t tease me. You saw me as a person, not someone different and I will be forever grateful for that. My whole life was better because of how you treated me all those years ago" I quickly wrote back to my kindergarten friend and we corresponded happily for several years before the illness that she had struggled with since childhood finally took her life. I will never forget, however, just how much that simple kindness I had shared meant to her. It made me see that kindness, goodness, love, and joy truly are the most important things in the world. Every act of kindness we do touches another ’ s heart. Every bit of goodness we share makes the world a better place. ...

... my finances encourage me to plan my purchases wisely and guide me away from waste. Today I can grumble about my health or. I can rejoice that I am alive. Today I can lament over all that my parents didn't give me when I was growing up or. I can feel grateful that they allowed me to be born. Today I can cry because roses have thorns or. I can celebrate that thorns have roses. Today I can mourn my lack of friends or. I can excitedly embark upon a quest to discover new relationships. Today I can whine because I have to go to work or. I can shout for joy because I have a job to do. Today I can complain because I have to go to school or. I can eagerly open my mind and fill it with rich new tidbits of knowledge. Today I can murmur dejectedly because I have to do housework or. I can feel honored because the Lord has ...

... who was losing his hearing and went to the doctor for help. He was advised to quit drinking alcohol. When his family asked him what he was going to do, he replied," Well, I've given it a lot of thought and I've decided I like what I've been drinkin ' so much better than what I've been hearin, I'm just gonna keep on gettin ' deaf" But there is still GOOD news aplenty. We can still hear encouraging words from friends. Any day we can witness numerous acts of generosity and kindness. And we can still spot signs all around us of love and hope. Sometimes we may have to look a little more closely, but the good news is there. Are you finding it? It's worth the effort.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier-Copyright 2009-from Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Ask an editor of a weekly newspaper. To realize the value of one hour: Ask lovers who are waiting to meet. To realize the value of one minute: Ask a person who has missed the train, bus or plane. To realize the value of one second: Ask a person who has survived an accident. To realize the value of one millisecond: Ask the person who has won a silver medal in the Olympics. To realize the value of a friend: Lose one. Time waits for no one. Treasure every moment you have." Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and ...

... I thought." Maybe he ran out of money" I finally gave up looking; the last time I noticed, the fourth wall was still unpainted. Your life is a house with four walls. The front wall is the side you show the world; it's where you put your best foot forward, the carefully crafted public image we all hide behind. The second wall of your life is the" private" side, the person that your family and close friends and co-workers see. This side is usually rougher than the front, since these people know the" real" you a little better. They sometimes see you at your worst and know how bad you can really be. The third wall is worse still, a hidden side, the image of yourself that you keep in your own mind. The side is rougher because it includes many hidden sins that you alone know about, the darker parts of your inner self that are ...

... Prayer For Grandpa Dear God, please send clothes for all those poor ladies on grandpa's computer. Amen!" And a little child shall lead them" Isaiah 11.6 NKJ-Editor: SkyWriting.Net Please pass this on... [Author and orginal source unknown-Received from my dear friend, Elsie] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... The Breath Of God Life's a little thing! Robert Browning once wrote. But a little thing can mean a life. Even two lives. How well I remember. Two years ago in downtown Denver my friend, Scott Reasoner, and I saw something tiny and insignificant change the world, but no one else even seemed to notice. It was one of those beautiful Denver days. Crystal clear, no humidity, not a cloud in the sky. We decided to walk the ten blocks to an outdoor restaurant rather than take the shuttle bus that runs up and down the Sixteenth Street Mall. The restaurant, in the shape of a baseball diamond, was called The Blake Street Baseball Club. The tables were set appropriately on the grass infield. Many colorful pennants and flags hung limply overhead. As we sat outside, the sun continued to beat down on us, and it became increasingly hot. There wasn't a hint of a breeze, ...

... every minute of my life. Alone and scared, it seemed to be my only escape from the pain, but fortunately, I had the courage to make the most important phone call I have ever made, I dialed the number to my college counselor, and my life has never been the same. I am now working towards a career helping college students deal with issues in their own lives and live each day to the fullest, sharing it with my family, friends, and a man who I love with all of my heart.~Jessica I shouldn't be alive today But God had other plans for me From His deep love I turned away Cuts and blood only I could see. I shouldn't have wished life to cease That night so close to Christmas Eve With phone in hand and wrapped in fleece A loving voice," Please do not leave" I shouldn't see the warm sun rise Or feel wind brush past my face God saved ...

... Cambridge, Massachusetts and predicted that the 21st century will include: A transition from an industrial to an information and service society. A terrific increase in the rate of change. Globalizations in every area of business and life. Re-spiritualization of society (reversing the secularization trend of recent centuries ), tying knowledge to vision and direction. Early in the 21st century we have already seen these trends evolving. I find all four fascinating, but the last one particularly intrigues me. My friend Oak Soo from Korea sent me this quote from anthropologist Jane Goodall (REASON FOR HOPE, Warner Books, 2000). Goodall, a scientist, said this about spirituality:" Thinking back over my life, it seems to me that there are different ways of looking out and trying to understand the world around us. There's a very clear scientific window. And it does enable us to understand an awful lot about what's out there. There's another window; it's the window ...

... it out" They kick the dog or scream at the kids. They lash out at the next unlucky person they come across. Still others" fight it out" Humorist Bob Orben says," Who can ever forget Winston Churchill's immortal words: 'We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills? It sounds exactly like our family vacation" With friends and family, fighting it out becomes bickering. On a larger scale, it's called warfare. Of course, the best idea is to" talk it out" Nothing new here-we have to bring it up before we can get it out. But talking it out isn't shouting it out. I think some people believe that if they just say it loudly enough, they can make it so. Talking it out is about bringing it up-saying what needs to ...

... Watching What You Drink When I began my first semester of college I am sorry to say that I didn ’ t get off to a good start. My friends and I excited with our new found freedom from parental supervision spent far too many hours in the campus pub and far too few in the campus library. Thankfully, three things helped to shock me off the drunken path I was taking and back onto the right one. The first of these was having people telling me about all of the stupid things I had done while drinking that I didn ’ t even remember doing. The second was seeing my first semester grades and realizing just how low my beer powered brain had made them. The straw that broke the camel ’ s back, though, happened on an evening when I decided to stay in my dorm room and go to bed early. I had only been asleep a few hours when my roommate came in from a night ...

... Ten Commandments In Marriage Ten Commandments for Husbands Thou shalt not take thy wife for granted, but will honour and respect her as thy equal. (1 Pet 3: 7) Thy highest allegiance, except God, shall be to thy wife, not thy relatives or friends. (Gen 2: 24) Thou shalt frequently tell thy wife how important & valuable she is to thee. (Phil 2: 3; Prov 31: 10-11) Thou shalt hold thy wife's love by the same means that thou won it. (Sos 5: 10-16) Thou shalt actively establish family discipline with thy wife's help. (Eph 6: 4) Remember to do all the little things for thy wife when you say you will. (Mt 5: 37) Keep thine eyes on thy own wife, not thy neighbors. (Prov 5: 15-20; Job 31: 1; Jer 5: 8) Thou shalt make every effort to ...

... ? When was the last time you took a long walk, rode a new bike, read a good book? When was the last time you had a belly laugh that actually came from your belly, a heartache that brought healing, a physical pain that made you slow down and really see others-maybe for the first time? When was the last time you quietly sipped a cup of tea, watched the dance of birds just outside your window, remembered old friends? When was the last time you greeted the day with a smile, prayed for your enemy, sang a song of praise? When was the last time you thought about Good Friday, Easter Sunday, a risen Savior? When was the last time you thanked God for the incredible blessings that make for a wonderful life? Glenn A. Hascall [by: Glenn A. Hascall Copyright 2003 (cmi @prairieweb.com)-submitted by Glenn Hascall] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All ...

... out to help those who had lost theirs. Electric line workers were tireless in their efforts to restore as many homes power as quickly as possible and every person whose home was lit back up smiled with a new appreciation for the energy they once took for granted. Families gathered around stoves, hugged each other in blankets, and looked out on the majestic mountains covered in snow. Then when the warm sun returned after days of cold they greeted it like a long lost friend. They watched the beautiful sunrise too like it was for the very first time. All of this gave me a new respect for all the tough times and bad weather I have faced in my own life. I see now that God is always with us in our Winter nights as well as our Summer days. I see too that our love and joy sometimes grow warmest when life is at its coldest.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. ...

... staff physician, examined Penney, declaring that he was extremely ill." A rigid treatment was prescribed, but nothing helped ," Penney recalled. He was attacked by the twin demons of hopelessness and despair. His very will to live was rapidly eroding." I got weaker day by day. I was broken nervously and physically, filled with despair, unable to see even a ray of hope. I had nothing to live for, I felt that I hadn't a friend left in the world, that even my family had turned against me" Alarmed by his rapidly deteriorating condition, Dr. Eggleston gave Penney a sedative. However, the effect quickly wore off, and Penney awakened with the conviction that he was living the last night of his life." Getting out of bed, I wrote farewell letters to my wife and to my son, saying that I did not expect to live to see the dawn" Penney awakened the next morning ...

... such a delight seeing their little, golden lights blinking on and off just like the lights on a Christmas tree. It brings me such joy watching my whole backyard and the woods around it twinkle like it is Christmastime while the warm, summer breezes tickle my face. It reminds me that anytime of the year can feel like Christmas if you have love in your heart and light in your soul. Still, there are times I feel a bit sorry for my firefly friends. They shine for only a brief time each Summer and their lights while beautiful last only a moment before fading again. In fact, I sometimes feel like a firefly myself. I try my best to shine long and bright with love, joy, and oneness with God, but it seems at times the most I can do is flicker. I am working hard, though, to leave my light on a bit longer each time and trying my best to make my ...

... mountaintops. It was such a glorious sight. I stood there and saw the red clouds change to pink then purple and then yellow. I looked down on the snowy ground and watched it sparkle with joy in the morning sun. I breathed in deep and smiled. I could feel the love of God all around me and even though it was way below freezing I still felt warm inside. The writer Robert Fulghum once quoted a great piece of advice given to a friend of his. It was to" Spend one hour some Sunday watching the sunrise while walking in a cemetery" Since I have a cemetery next to my backyard I decided to follow this advice myself today. Watching the sunshine glistening off the gravestones quickly put everything in perspective for me. I realized that like my quiet neighbors one day my body was going to be in the ground somewhere and that this beautiful world was going to keep going right on without me. I saw ...

... 1. A Public Execution Assured His Death During the Jewish Feast of Passover, Jesus was swept away by an angry crowd into a Roman hall of justice. As He stood before Pilate, the governor of Judea, religious leaders accused Jesus of claiming to be the king of the Jews. The crowd demanded His death. Jesus was beaten, whipped, and sentenced to a public execution. On a hill outside of Jerusalem, He was crucified between two criminals. Brokenhearted friends and mocking enemies shared in His deathwatch. As the Sabbath neared, Roman soldiers were sent to finish the execution. To quicken death, they broke the legs of the two criminals. But when they came to Jesus they did not break His legs, because from experience they knew He was already dead. As a final precaution, however, they thrust a spear into His side. It would take more than resuscitation for Him to ever trouble them again. 2. A ...

... you see someone who has served our country, just lean over and say," Thank You" That's all most people need, and in most cases it will mean more than any medals they could have been awarded or were awarded. Again, two little words that mean a lot to any Veteran-" THANK YOU" Addendum-John 15: 13 (KJV)" Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" [Father Denis Edward O'Brian-from Thomas S. Ellsworth] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... " He proceeded to crumple the 20 dollar note up. He then asked." Who still wants it ?" Still the hands were up in the air." Well ," he replied," what if I do this ?" He dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty." Now, who still wants it ?" Still the hands went into the air." My friends, you have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value. It was still worth $20. Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless; but no matter what happened or what will happen, you will never lose ...

... of saying," I care enough to notice" Even relationships that are not romantic in nature will benefit from well-placed compliments. Granted, some people feel suspicious, embarrassed, or defensive when complimented. They sometimes suspect that fine words might be part of a manipulative design. And quite often, people respond to compliments with mixed emotions rather than plain gratitude, primarily because they find the sincerity behind them suspect. But most often, sincere encouragement can bolster self-confidence and cement friendships. In love relationships, thoughtful compliments can help keep the fires of romance burning vigorously. One marriage counselor says, 'Compliment your spouse at least once every day" He cautions against flattery by adding," It should be sincere. Then point out something new you appreciate about him or her every week. Make sure it is something you have never mentioned before. You'll be surprised at what it does for your marriage" Sincere compliments cost nothing and can accomplish so much. ...

... The Bassinet When my Mom and my cousin had a baby shower for me, my Mom's gift was a hand woven wicker baby bassinet. It was beautiful. It became one of my most treasured possessions. All three of my children used it, and I had planned that my grandchildren would use it as well. Maybe it would become an heirloom in our family for generations to come. My cousin, Cynthia, who was one of my best friends, became pregnant when both of our youngest were pre-teen age. She borrowed the bassinet for her baby. As the years passed we grew further apart. I had always planned to go and get that bassinet, but we just never found the time to make that 60 mile trip. When her" baby" was 8 years old, we were finally going to get that bassinet. I called my cousin to tell her that we would be coming but she was not home. I called ...

... The Beauty Way I guess I'm likely to put anything in my body! I love spicy foods and Mexican foods in particular. I've" treated" friends to my favorite homemade spicy dishes. A typical reaction to a dish bathed in my hot sauce goes like this: they smile and enthusiastically try a bite; their eyes open far too wide and they begin to sweat profusely and reach for the water to put out the flames in their stomachs; then, when voice and reason return, they nod and politely say," Tasty" They often don't come back. One person commented," I've heard of people who preach hellfire, but you're the only one I know who hands out samples" Well, maybe it's not quite that bad, but I'm likely to eat most any kind of food. And though I exercise regularly, my body is starting to tell me to be more selective in my diet. I like the woman who ...

... ’ t know why it took me so long to realize that you can ’ t take love or life for granted. If I had it to do over I would have hugged them a dozen times a day, every single day they were with me. If I could have those moments back I would have followed the example of my own son who gives me more hugs everyday than I can count. I would have taken the lead of my son ’ s childhood friend too. She may be confined to a wheelchair but she can still hug your heart out with the squeeze of her hand or lift your spirits with a smile that is brighter than the noonday sun. If I could live those years again I would do so with my arms, my heart, and my soul wide open. Thankfully, God in His love gives us a lifetime to learn from our mistakes. I can ’ t live those years again, but I can ...

... too many people the chance to do something important with their lives. Their indifference inspires little energy to pursue something truly worthwhile. One woman went to the market and asked for two pounds of sausage. The clerk yelled at the butcher," Two pounds of enthusiasm !"" Why do you call it that ?" the bewildered customer asked." Because he puts everything he's got into it ," the clerk said. In your daily activities; in your relationships with family, friends and colleagues; in anything you think is important-what would happen if you" put everything you've got" into it? Are you ready to find out?~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier-Copyright 2009-from Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Ups and Downs My kids keep asking me if I'll bounce on the new trampoline with them. I keep telling them that I can bounce without the trampoline, thank you very much. Besides I could get hurt on that thing. Not just the average compound fracture either. You see, women nearing mid-life don't want to sass gravity. Case in point: Before approaching that mid-season of life, we can spot a friend some distance away and give a big, friendly wave. Not so as we approach forty. I've noticed the last few years when I give one of those big waves, the hand part of the wave is long over before that fluttery stuff that used to be my upper arm stops waving. No one wants to be that friendly. I now do the forty-ish wave. For those of you who aren't there yet, here are the instructions: Raise arm until elbow is almost even with shoulder. While careful to keep ...

... who resisted, someone died in a concentration camp. When the war was over, feelings of bitterness ran deep between the groups and there was much tension. Finally they decided that the situation had to be healed. Leaders from each group met at a quiet retreat. For several days, each person spent time in prayer, examining his own heart in the light of Christ's commands. Then they came together. Francis Schaeffer, who told of the incident, asked a friend who was there," What did you do then ?"" We were just one ," he replied. As they confessed their hostility and bitterness to God and yielded to His control, the Holy Spirit created a spirit of unity among them. Love filled their hearts and dissolved their hatred. When love prevails among believers, especially in times of strong disagreement, it presents to the world an indisputable mark of a true follower of Jesus Christ. [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken ...

... your hand that is God saying," I love you" When you hear music that uplifts your soul with joy and read words that make your heart and mind soar into the heavens that is God saying," I love you" When you hear the laughter of children playing and feel the warm hug of your own child against you that is God saying," I love you" When you have the loving support of your family and the wonderful kindness of your friends no matter what you are going through that is God saying," I love you" When you find your thoughts and feelings always leading you towards growth, learning, love, and joy that is God saying," I love you" When your life ’ s circumstances both good and bad help you to keep growing stronger, better, happier, and more loving each day that is God saying," I love you" God is always telling you and showing you ...

... Succeeding At Life It's said there are three ways to get to the top of a tree: climb it, sit on an acorn or make friends with a big bird. But without too much imagination I can think of a couple of other ways – like one that involves a parachute and a poor landing. However, the point is still well taken: getting to the top of that organization or reaching a new height requires effort. And it is taken for granted that reaching the top is exactly what everyone wants to do. After all, isn't that what" success" is all about? More power? More money? Reaching the top? But what about success at living – trying to get it right this go around? Success at this thing we call living has always been important to me. And climbing to the top of a tree has never been a good metaphor for it. I like to think more about the word ...

... romance in a relationship and find out you still care for that person. A sad thing in life is when you meet someone who means a lot to you, only to find out in the end that it was never meant to be and you just have to let go. When the door of happiness closes, another opens but oftentimes we look so long at the closed door that we don't see the one which has been opened for us. The best kind of friend is the kind you can just be with, never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had. It's true that we don't know what we've got until we lose it-but it's also true that we don't know what we've been missing until it arrives. Giving someone all your love is never an assurance that they'll love you back! Don't expect love in return-just wait for it to grow in their heart, ...

... Eight Gifts That Do Not Cost A Cent! THE GIFT OF LISTENING... But you must REALLY listen. No interrupting, no daydreaming, no planning your response. Just listening. THE GIFT OF AFFECTION... Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back and handholds. Let these small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends. THE GIFT OF LAUGHTER... Clip cartoons. Share articles and funny stories. Your gift will say," I love to laugh with you" THE GIFT OF A WRITTEN NOTE... It can be a simple" Thanks for the help" note or a full sonnet. A brief, handwritten note may be remembered for a lifetime, and may even change a life. THE GIFT OF A COMPLIMENT... A simple and sincere," You look great in red ,"" You did a super job" or" That was a wonderful ...

... Eight Gifts That Don't Cost A Cent This simple checklist can help measure how you are nurturing your relationships. The author of these thoughts is unknown, but deeply appreciated. The Gift of Listening But you must really listen. Don't interrupt, don't daydream, don't plan your response. Just listen. The Gift of Affection Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back and handholds. Let these small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends. The Gift of Laughter Clip cartoons. Share articles and funny stories. Your gift will say," I love to laugh with you" The Gift of Solitude There are times when we want nothing better than to be left alone. Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others. The Gift of a Favor Every day, go out of your way to do something kind. The Gift of a Written Note It can be a simple" Thanks for ...

... is to learn from them. Easy is to weep for a lost love. Difficult is to take care of it so not to lose it. Easy is to think about improving. Difficult is to stop thinking it and put it into action. Easy is to think bad of others Difficult is to give them the benefit of the doubt. Easy is to receive. Difficult is to give. Easy to read this. Difficult to follow. Easy is to keep the friendship with words. Difficult is to keep it with meanings. [Author Unknown-from Dolores, via 'Nancy Cantafio ' (the-inspired-buffalo @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... . In that noisy crush of strangers I saw her looking from face to face for comfort. It was then that her eyes met mine. In that moment we both smiled and I felt our souls touch. The fear and loneliness left her eyes and I saw love and joy replace them. Her angelic smile warmed my own heart as well and in that second I could feel a blanket of God ’ s love around us both. We shared a lifetime ’ s friendship in that instant before waving goodbye to each other. As I walked back to my car too I noticed a change. All of those noisy and busy strangers had suddenly turned into beautiful Children of God. People ’ s eyes sparkled, and their laughter became music. I smiled joyously at it all and wondered what I had been afraid of all those years. I knew, though, that thanks to that little angel I would never feel lonely in crowds again. I ...

... Faith" What does faith feel like ?" That was the question a friend sent me in a letter the other day. As I was thinking about how to answer him a single memory kept coming back into my mind. I was 5 years old and very sick. The doctors told my Mom that my tonsils were swollen, infected, and needed to come out. Surgery was scheduled for the next day and I spent the night in the hospital with my Mom sitting at my bedside. She told me gently not to be scared, that she was there for me and would be right here when I woke up after the operation. The next morning the nurses gave me something to sleep before surgery and the last thing I remembered before going under was seeing my Mom ’ s smiling face. That is until I suddenly woke up to find myself surrounded by strange adults wearing masks. I had come to just before the operation was to begin ...

... you when you break the rules, shines with pride when you succeed, and has faith in you even when you fail. Dad, you're everything a dad should be and some. ~~ By Susan Ceylise ~~ #2. WHAT IS A DAD? A Dad is a person who is loving and kind, And often he knows what you have on your mind. He's someone who listens, suggests, and defends. A dad can be one of your very best friends! He's proud of your triumphs, but when things go wrong, A dad can be patient and helpful and strong In all that you do, a dad's love plays a part. There's always a place for him deep in your heart. And each year that passes, you're even more glad, More grateful and proud just to call him your dad! Thank you, Dad. for listening and caring, for giving and sharing, but, especially, for just being ...

... Fathers and Children A-Always trust them to God's care B-Bring them to church C-Challenge them to high goals D-Delight in their achievements E-Exalt the lord in their presence F-Frown on evil G-Give them love H-Hear their problems I-Ignore not their childish fears J-Joyfully accept their apologies K-Keep their confidence L-Live a good example before them M-Make them your friends N-Never ignore their endless questions O-Open your home to their visits P-Pray for them by name Q-Quicken your interest in their spirituality R-Remember their needs S-Show them the way of salvation T-Teach them to work U-Understand they are still young V-Verify your statements W-Wean them from bad company X-eXpect them to obey Y-Yearn for god's best for them Z-Zealously guide them in biblical truth [Author Unknown- ...

... said gently," Edith, I'm the doctor and you're the patient" With a heavy heart he said," Your lab report came back and it says you have cancer, and Edith, you're not going to live very long" Edith said," Why Will Phillips, shame on you. Why are you so sad? Do you think God makes mistakes? You have just told me I'm going to see my precious Lord Jesus, my husband, and my friends. You have just told me that I am going to celebrate Easter forever, and here you are having difficulty giving me my ticket !" Dr. Phillips thought to himself," What a magnificent woman this Edith Burns is !" Edith continued coming to Dr. Phillips. Christmas came and the office was closed through January 3rd. On the day the office opened, Edith did not show up. Later that afternoon, Edith called Dr. Phillips and said she would have to ...

... conclusion that it's okay to be" not fine" When people ask me how I'm doing lately, I don't rattle off a list of complaints and observations, sad feelings and grievances-as a matter of fact, I just might say," I'm okay" However, I admit that within myself things are NOT fine and try to work through the feelings that creates. I don't need to share with others all of the time. It's good to vent to a friend and I don't discount that. But, I've learned that I'd better vent with myself and acknowledge my feelings or I, like a balloon with too much air, will POP. Embrace the good and the not so good in your life. Don't run from it or try to bury it. By doing this; by saying to myself that I am NOT fine right now, I can work through my feelings more easily. How do I do it? It's taken me ...

... with shame, He learns to be shy. If a child lives with tolerance, He learns to be patient. If a child lives with encouragement, He learns confidence. If a child lives with praise, He learns to appreciate. If a child lives with fairness, He learns justice. If a child lives with security, He learns to have faith. If a child lives with approval, He learns to like himself. If a child lives with acceptance and friendship, He learns to find love in the world.~~~~~~~~~~~I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. I will not refuse to do the something I can do.-Helen Keller-[ Author Unknown-from 'Love Quotes '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... . Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners. How did you do? The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners. Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one: List a few teachers who aided your journey through life. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with. Name half a dozen heroes whose stories have inspired you. Easier? The Lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care ...

... that is difficult. Do we do right when no one is looking? Do we refuse to cut corners to get the design in on time? Or refuse to trade stocks based on information that we aren't supposed to have? We would if we were taught to put the fish back when we were young. For we would have learned the truth. The decision to do right lives fresh and fragrant in our memory. It is a story we will proudly tell our friends and our grandchildren. Not about how we had a chance to beat the system and took it, but about how we did the right thing and were forever strengthened. [From Casey, via HeartStrings, via 'HeartWarming '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... be able to carry on"" As with the glass of water, you have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again. When we're refreshed, we can carry on with the burden"" So, before you return home tonight, put the burden of work down. Don't carry it home. You can pick it up tomorrow. Whatever burdens you're carrying now, let them down for a moment if you can" So, my friend, Put down anything that may be a burden to you right now. Don't pick it up again until after you've rested a while. Here are some great ways of dealing with the burdens of life: Accept that some days you're the pigeon, and some days you're the statue. Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them. Always read stuff that'll make you look good if you die in the middle of it. Drive carefully ...

... , it still can ’ t compare to the soul light that I see everyday. This light burns just as brightly in the Winter too. I see it shining from my youngest son ’ s smile and hear it in my oldest son ’ s laugh. It glows warmly in my daughter ’ s eyes and it leaps out from the words of an inspiring book. It travels from soul to soul on the laughter, prayers, gentle words, and caring hearts of friends, family, neighbors, and even strangers. It sails on the winds of good deeds, encouragement, and loving kindness. It sings in our music, shines in our thoughts, and brightens every part of our lives. It connects us with Heaven. May all of your days be full of light then. May the sun shine down on you and may your own soul shine within you. May God ’ s light and love live through you even when the world ...

... when you bump into your dear one in the kitchen. Take a little while to watch the sun go down and the moon rise up. Take a hour to walk among the trees and flowers and feel God's gentle, loving breezes on your face. Take a minute to call your Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt, or Uncle and tell them that you love them. Take the time to write an inspiring letter or say an encouraging word to a friend. Take all of the precious days of your life and use them to bring more joy, love, and oneness with God to this world. Life is short. Don't miss a moment of it.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella (joecool @wirefire)-from 'Inspired Buffalo ' (InspiredBuffalo @lighthouse.net)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... , avoid SIN Street because it is a DEAD END. Pass up Envy Drive, and Hate Avenue. Also, pass Hypocrisy Street, Gossiping Lane, and Backbiting Blvd. However, you have to go down Long-suffering Lane, Persecution Blvd. and Trials and Tribulations Ave. But that's all right, because VICTORY Street is straight ahead! AMEN! © By James Cruz As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. Please send these directions to your friends so they won't get lost. [By: James Cruz-from 'Colorado Comments ' (TheBible @USA.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... the Bible says," The least shall be the greatest among you" Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively. Should you find it hard to get to sleep tonight, just remember the homeless family who has no bed to lie in. Should you decide to send this to a friend, you might brighten someone's day! Pass this on to someone special. I did! God Bless! [Author and orginal source unknown-from John Traver] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... My first dog gave me the gift of unconditional love and loyalty. A beautiful girl gave me the gift of my first kiss which made me tingle from head to toe. A favorite teacher gave me the gift of seeing that learning can be a joy instead of a job. My children gave me the gifts of tiny arms wrapped around my neck and" I love you Daddy" whispered in my ear. So many beautiful souls blessed me with the gift of their friendship. I also got gifts in the smiles of strangers, the hugs of neighbors, and the kind letters from people all over the world who had read my writings. Each one of them was precious. Each one of them was eternal. Not a single one of these forever gifts could be bought in a store. They all had to be given from the heart. They won ’ t break, rust, or rot either. Instead I will carry them in my ...

... Love is the only thing that can be divided, without being diminished. Happiness is enhanced by others but does not depend upon others. You are richer today if you have laughed, given or forgiven. For every minute you are angry with someone, you lose 60 seconds of happiness that you can never get back. Do what you can, for who you can, with what you have, and where you are. The best gifts to give: To your friend, loyalty; To your enemy, forgiveness; To your boss, service; To a child, a good example; To your parents, gratitude and devotion; To your mate, love and faithfulness; To all men and women, charity; and To God, your life. [Author Unknown-from 'Colorado Comments '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... strong" and stoic for his daughter, but out on the road he fell apart. The two men talked for the good part of an hour. The father eventually decided to share his pain with his daughter and said he felt good enough to drive home. The men embraced and the trucker followed him for 50 miles. As they drove along, the two talked together on the radio. The older man finally acknowledged that his exit was ahead and thanked his new friend again for the help. The trucker asked if he could make it home all right and, suddenly, a third voice broke in on the conversation:" Breaker 19, don't worry, good buddy. Go your way. I'll see him home !" Glancing in his mirror, he saw a livestock truck move into the exit lane behind the brown sedan. I think there are good people the world over. People who will gladly give that caring touch, a needed warm ...

... Talk slowly but think quickly. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask," Why do you want to know ?" Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk. Say" bless you" when you hear someone sneeze. When you lose, don't lose the lesson. Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect for others; and responsibility for all your actions. Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it. Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice. Spend some time alone. [Author Unknown-from 'andychaps_the-funnies '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... relatives. Talk slowly but think quickly. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask," Why do you want to know ?" Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk. Say" bless you" when you hear someone sneeze. When you lose, don't lose the lesson. Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect for others; Responsibility for all your actions. Don't let a dispute injure a great friendship. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it. Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice. Be sure to spend some time alone. [Author Unknown-from 'andychaps_the-funnies '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... it there. It was a lesson in compassion he never forgot. Some of the most essential life lessons and wisdom young Ross acquired did not come from a book or a classroom. They were lessons that came from those people closest to him. Many concerned themselves with the heart and spirit. They taught him about the world and the best way to live in it. Our greatest teachers are usually those who did not volunteer for the job. They are parents and friends, spouses and children. Much great wisdom is learned best from the example of those closest to us. And the remarkable fact is this: you are a great teacher. You teach powerful lessons every day of your life. You teach them simply by the way you live; by the way you respond to the world; and, by the little decisions you make. I wonder-who's watching and learning?~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier-Copyright ...

... Heartprints Whatever our hands touch-We leave fingerprints! On walls, on furniture, On doorknobs, dishes, books, As we touch we leave our identity. Oh please where ever I go today, Help me leave heartprints! Heartprints of compassion Of understanding and love. Heartprints of kindness and genuine concern. May my heart touch a lonely neighbor Or a runaway daughter, Or an anxious mother, Or, perhaps, a dear friend! I shall go out today To leave heartprints, And if someone should say" I felt your touch ," May that one sense be .YOUR LOVE Touching through ME. [Author Unknown-Aiken Drum (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Happiness When the door of happiness closes, another opens, but often times we look so long at the closed door that we don't see the one which has been opened for us. The best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch and swing with, never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've every had. It's true that we don't know what we've got until we lose it, but it's also true that we don't know what we've been missing until it arrives. Giving someone all your love is never an assurance that they'll love you back! Don't expect love in return; just wait for it to grow in their heart but if it doesn't, be content it grew in yours. It takes only a minute to get a crush on someone, an hour to like someone, and a day to love someone, but it takes a lifetime to forget someone. ...

... God Loves Variety I like the story about three ministers and a priest who played golf together every week. They decided to visit each other's churches. So the following day, the three ministers showed up at an early morning mass at their friend's church. There were no empty pews, so they stood in the back. When the priest saw them, he whispered to the little acolyte," Get three chairs for the Protestants !" The boy looked stunned and sat down. The priest pointed in the back to where the clergymen were standing and repeated," Get three chairs for the Protestants" The confused boy still stared back blankly. Exasperated, the priest said emphatically," Please! Get three chairs for the Protestants !" The dismayed acolyte stood before the congregation and announced," Ladies and gentlemen. This is the first time this has ever been done in a Catholic church, but let's all stand and give three cheers for the Protestants ...

... YOU, WON'T YOU JOIN ME?-GOD I'M A GOOD LISTENER-GOD I TOLD NOAH TO SWAT ONE OF THOSE TWO MOSQUITOES-GOD DON'T BE AFRAID. I'LL KEEP A LIGHT ON FOR YOU-GOD I NEVER SAID IT WOULD BE EASY, I SAID I WOULD GO WITH YOU-GOD THE KIDS NEED HELP. PLEASE ALLOW ME BACK INTO THE SCHOOLS-GOD" QUALITY TIME ?" HOW ABOUT AN HOUR EACH WEEK, AT MY HOUSE-GOD NEED A FRIEND? I'M AVAILABLE-GOD TONIGHT. TRY TURNING THE T.V. OFF, AND YOUR FAMILY ON-GOD CAN'T SLEEP? BEFORE YOU COUNT THE SHEEP. HAVE A LITTLE CHAT WITH THE SHEPHERD-GOD GOODNESS KNOWS !!!-GOD TO ALL THE" MEN" DRIVING OUT THERE WHO ARE LOST; PULL OVER, AND I'LL GIVE YOU DIRECTIONS-GOD TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF. UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN-GOD MY BLESSINGS ARE NOT ALWAYS IN" DISGUISE"-WOULD YOU RECOGNIZE ...

... One poet put it like this:" If a task is once begun, never leave until it's done. Be the labor great or small, do it well or not at all" I think a case can be made that not everything has to be done well all of the time. But more often I have to ask myself," If I don't have time to do it right, when I will find time to do it over ?" I have a friend who likes to say," Slow is fast" What she means is that if I will slow down and do the thing right, I won't have to redo it later. Slow is fast. For me, it helps to just do it, do it now and try to do it right. And then maybe celebrate when it's done.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier-Copyright 2010-from Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages ...

... closer) But if you want a deeper connection with someone your care about, if you want relationships that are more intimate, more meaningful and longer-lasting, then try this simple technique. Just remember the word" TRAVEL" T is for TRUST. If we're seeking a glue to cement us to another, then trust is that bond. A relationship will go nowhere without it. R is for RESPECT. Some people talk about how much they have always respected their cherished friends and family at a funeral. But why wait? People want to know that we hold them in high regard. It's about valuing others and letting them know you respect them. A is for AFFECTION. Sometimes affection means love. Sometimes it means a touch. Or a hug. Always it means kindness. V is for VULNERABILITY. Though we may feel afraid to let another too close, no relationship will go anywhere without taking a risk. Like entrepreneur Jim Rohn says ...

... A Formula For A Successful Life I have a friend who prepares taxes. He lamented with me once about some of his wealthier clients-those with six and seven figure incomes. Some of these people, he said, even despite the obvious tax benefits, refused to give any of their money away. Some are spending more money on grooming their pets than on feeding hungry children. They simply have not discovered the importance and power of giving. And sadly, these wealthier clients are in a position to do something significant, but they choose to do nothing at all. Author Kent Nerburn wrote a book titled LETTERS TO MY SON: A Father's Wisdom on Manhood, Life, and Love. In one letter, he teaches his son the value of generosity:" Remember to be gentle with yourself and others. We are all children of chance, and none can say why some fields will blossom and others lay brown beneath the August sun ...

... Gifts that Don't Cost a Cent THE GIFT OF LISTENING But you must REALLY listen. No interrupting, no daydreaming, no planning your response. Just listening. THE GIFT OF AFFECTION Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back and handholds. Let these small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends. THE GIFT OF LAUGHTER Clip cartoons. Share articles and funny stories. Your gift will say," I love to laugh with you". THE GIFT OF A WRITTEN NOTE It can be a simple" Thanks for the help" note or a full sonnet. A brief, handwritten note may be remembered for a lifetime, and may even change a life. THE GIFT OF A COMPLIMENT A simple and sincere," You look great in red "," You did a super job" or" That was a wonderful meal" can make someone's day. THE GIFT OF A FAVOR Every day, go out ...

... ’ t end there either. On Father ’ s Day I got several more hugs from both of my sons and my daughter too. Each one shared all the love they had for me and I had for them. Each one brought us so much joy. Each one made us feel connected, cherished, and whole. Those wonderful hugs made it one of the best Father ’ s Days of my life. I have received a lot of gifts from family and friends over the years. I enjoyed every single one of them too. Still, those hugs from my 3 children have to be at the top of my list of the best gifts ever. They won ’ t tear, break, or wear out. They will last forever in a special place in my heart and mind. And when I leave this world for the next I know that those hugs and the love they carried into my soul will go with me as well ...

... Giving Your Life Away Sometimes the greatest lessons in life come at the oddest moments. One of mine came when I was helping to harvest our gardens as a boy. We had four of them and they took a lot of work. In the fall, however, they produced more than enough vegetables for the whole year. Every year my Dad would separate a part of them to share with friends and people in the community. One time while we were loading up a bag full of corn to take to a needy family I asked my Dad why we always gave so many of our vegetables away. He said," Son, not everyone has as much as we do. They can use our help. Besides, if we didn ’ t give these vegetables away they would just go to waste" Now that I have been on this world a lot longer I can see the wisdom in my Dad ’ s words. I can ...

... way to the post office driving 20 mph under the speed limit. It was then that I saw a man and woman hitchhiking on the side of the road. I carefully pulled over and asked where they were going. Although it was an extra 10 miles out of my way I agreed to take them anyway. Traffic was light and I didn ’ t see them catching another ride anytime soon. As we drove along I learned that they were headed to an elderly friend ’ s home to shovel out her driveway. They had agreed to do so out of the kindness of their hearts, with no thought of reward, and knowing that it would take most of the day to do so and get back home. They thanked me more than once as I dropped them off, but they didn ’ t have to. Their loving example had already touched my heart. It made me smile knowing that my small act of kindness had helped them ...

... help a final time." Lord, please, if you get my foot out of the tracks, I'll do anything! I'll. I'll. I'll become a minister! Suddenly his foot shot out of the tracks and he got up and dusted himself off as the train whizzed by. Then he looked toward Heaven and said," Never, mind, Lord, I got it out myself" Some people seemingly never need help from anyone. They rarely call on friends or even family to lend a hand. They seldom, if ever, confide in a good listener. They seem to believe they should be completely self sufficient; that needing assistance is an unwelcome weakness. But others find great value in occasionally asking for assistance, and in offering it, too. Needing help, even once in a while, reminds them that they were not meant to journey this life alone. It is a group outing, not a private experience. ...

... Cake With Kai For the last several weeks my oldest son and I have been visiting our neighbor and friend, Kai every Wednesday afternoon. I always bring over my newest bit of writing to share with her and she always greets us with a hug, a smile, and a freshly baked cake. Each week she fills our bellies with another frosted delight. First it was chocolate, then lemon, strawberry, and vanilla. Everyone of them too melts in your mouth and makes your stomach sigh. After cake we all sit down for a long talk full of shared laughs and shared lives. Kai ’ s name rhymes with Hi and that is fitting because her every greeting is full of love and kindness. It doesn ’ t matter if it is me, the delivery man, or the dog next door. Kai is always ready to give a little joy to everyone she meets. Since she and her husband Sean moved here a few ...

... every caring smile, every loving thought, and every helping hand adds to the ocean of God ’ s love here. Every single drop makes it greater. Every little thing we do in this life is important. Every little thing we do makes a difference. Drop by drop God wants us to add to the endless waters of His love that wash over this world. Start today then. Give the world the gift of your smile. Share a laugh with your friends. Give your loved ones a heartfelt hug. Open a door for a stranger. Give a few coins to a person in need. Pass on a friendly wave, a bit of good news, or a positive thought. Shower people with your kindness and love. Help everyone you can every chance you can. Sow a few seeds of joy in the Winter even if you won ’ t get to see them bloom in the Spring. Keep adding to your drops of ...

... A Dog ’ s Love It was raining on the day I took my St. Bernard, Buddy to the vet for the last time. It was raining on my windshield, it was raining in my eyes, and it was raining in my soul. My heart was heavy with the sadness of knowing that I would soon be losing a friend who had always touched my soul with his sad face and sweet personality. When he was a puppy I used to carry him around in one arm. Now his 170 lb body was ancient and ailing. Throughout all his life he had protected us with his strength and loved us with his gentleness. He was a part of our family and taking him on this last ride was one of the hardest things I ever had to do. My voice like my spirit felt broken as I told the vet that it was best to end Buddy ’ s suffering now. I had watched over the last ...

... Friday, after work, as I drove over to pick her up I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her house, I noticed that she, too, seemed to be nervous about our date. She waited in the doorway with her coat on. She had curled her hair and was wearing the dress that she had worn to celebrate her last wedding anniversary. She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an angel's." I told my friends that I was going to go out with my son, and they were impressed ," she said, as she got into the car." They can't wait to hear about our meeting" We went to a restaurant that, although not elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my arm as if she were the First Lady. After we sat down, I had to read the menu. Her eyes could only read large print. Halfway through the entree ...

... A Hero For Our Time An American tourist in Tel Aviv was about to enter the impressive Mann Auditorium to take in a concert by the Israel Philharmonic. He was admiring the unique architecture, the sweeping lines of the entrance, and the modern decor throughout the building. Finally he turned to his escort and asked if the building was named for Thomas Mann, the world famous author." No ," his friend said," it's named for Fredric Mann, from Philadelphia"" Really? I never heard of him. What did he write ?" the tourist asked." A check" There are many kinds of heroes, and Fredric Mann may be considered a hero by concert goers in Tel Aviv. But you don't have to be famous (or wealthy) to be heroic. Nor do you have to pull a child from a burning building or throw yourself atop a hand grenade. Heroes come in many varieties. In fact, you ...

... not only cut a large pile of wood, he also carried the firewood into the house and arranged it neatly by the fireplace. He had scarcely left when a servant said to the woman," I guess you didn't recognize him, ma'am, but that was Professor Washington !" Embarrassed and ashamed, the woman hurried over to Tuskegee Institute to apologize. The great educator respectfully replied:" There's no need to apologize, madam. I'm delighted to do favors for my friends" The professor may have taught one of his greatest lessons that day. It was a lesson about astronomy: he taught that every star can shine without one out-shining all the others. It was a lesson about peace: he taught how self-interest must often be set aside for the good of the whole. And it was a lesson about spirituality: he taught about the power of a meek and humble spirit in a world where aggression is too-often confused with strength. It is ...

... A Matter Of Focus My friend Marge had an experience aboard a plane bound for Cleveland, while waiting for takeoff. As she settled into her seat, Marge noticed a strange phenomenon. On one side of the airplane a sunset suffused the entire sky with glorious color. But out of the window next to her seat, all Marge could see was a dark and threatening sky, with no sign of the sunset. As the plane's engines began to roar, a gentle Voice spoke within her." You have noticed the windows ," He murmured beneath the roar of the engines and thrust of the takeoff." Your life, too, will contain some happy, beautiful times, but also some dark shadows. Here's a lesson I want to teach you to save you much heartache and allow you to" abide in Me" with continual peace and joy. You see, it doesn't matter which window you look through; this plane is still ...

... what they wanted was a globe with a light inside." I can fix that ," he said." Let me take it back and exchange it for a lighted one" Unfortunately the store where he bought the globe did not sell lighted ones. They refunded his money and he set out in search of a" lighted world" He eventually located a globe with a light in it, bought it and presented it to his delighted granddaughters. When asked by a friend if he had learned anything from this experience, he made sage observation:" Oh, yes, I learned one thing. I learned that a lighted world costs more" Light is a powerful metaphor. An enlightened world might be one in which education is valued. But it can also mean that what was hidden in darkness can now be seen. Destructive attitudes and behaviors will never stand the scrutiny of light. We become better people, and we become a better world ...

... was seeing her children smile! Later that morning, their dad arrived to pick the children up. The older of the two children hugged her mom the tightest. She knew that it would be her mother's first holiday without them. Looking back, and seeing her mom standing in the doorway, waving good-bye and blowing them a kiss almost broke her heart. The old house was oh-so-quiet without the kids. Shortly after lunch, the telephone rang. It was a special friend, who had remembered her on this holiday, just calling to say," I love you" Another unexpected gift that helped to make the day more bearable. When the kids arrived home, they unpacked their" load" of presents from Christmas with dad. It was quite apparent that they were showered with nice things." It's good to be home, mom ," the kids said, as they hugged their mom, tighter than ever before. That night, the ...

... McD's for a Happy Meal -invite some singles to your home to watch old movies -visit a nursing home -find someone to share that bike -make it a bicycle built for three -or four -or thirty-four! Find a way to bring love into another's loveless life today -and you'll find a full, happy heart yourself! Have a wonderful Valentine's Day next Saturday, celebrating with a lost and lonely world a love we can all enjoy -the love of the Son of God whose faithfulness and friendship never fails! Celebrate HIM on Valentine's Day -load down that" bicycle built for two" with some lonely, loveless people -head down the road to HIS Home -and you will have a great day! Scripture:" And now abideth faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love (1 Corinthians 13: 13)" Prayer:" Lord, it's almost Valentine's Day -and whatever my circumstances as this day approaches, please make it a ...

... Advent Bell THE BELL I KNOW WHO I AM I am God's child (John 1: 12) I am Christ's friend (John 15: 15) I am united with the Lord (1 Cor. 6: 17) I am bought with a price (1 Cor 6: 19-20) I am a saint (set apart for God). (Eph. 1: 1) I am a personal witness of Christ. (Acts 1: 8) I am the salt & light of the earth (Matt 5: 13-14) I am a member of the body of Christ (1 Cor 12: 27) I am free forever from condemnation (Rom. 8: 1-2) I am a citizen of Heaven. I am significant (Phil 3: 20) I am free from any charge against me (Rom. 8: 31 -34) I am a minister of reconciliation for God (2 Cor 5: 17-21) ...

... all need more simple evenings filled with talk and togetherness. We all need to spend more time remembering how we are all one family put here by God to love each other and to share joy with each other. I hope that all of your adventures are loving ones then. I hope that all of your adventures bring you closer to God. I hope that all of your adventures help you to share your heart's love and your soul's joy with your family, your friends, and the entire world.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella (joecool @wirefire)-from 'Inspired Buffalo ' (InspiredBuffalo @lighthouse.net)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... 23rd Psalm Message One Friday at the end of a particularly hard and stressful week, a coworker came to me and wanted to talk. She said she just felt" blah" for the past several weeks." It is very difficult to care about anything anymore ," she related. Little did she know that I was somewhere beyond that same point. Three months prior, our family had lost a close friend named Zella. She was related to both sides of my family in various, too complicated to tell ways, and was like a sparkling extra grandmother to my children. Zella had a wonderful, hearty laugh combined with a glimmer in her eyes. But I found myself beside her bed in an intensive care unit, holding her hand while her children took a break. A surgery the day before had revealed a huge mass involving most of her abdominal organs. There was nothing to be done. As she and her family hovered in ...

... about a bright young man who was a sophomore Stanford pre-med student. To reward him for having done so well in school, his parents gave him a trip to the Asia for the summer. While there he met a guru who said to him," Don't you see how you are poisoning your soul with this success-oriented way of life? Your idea of happiness is to stay up all night studying for an exam so you can get a better grade than your best friend. Your idea of a good marriage is not to find the woman who will make you whole, but to win the girl that everyone else wants." That's not how people are supposed to live ," the sage admonished." Give it up; come join us in an atmosphere where we all share and love each other" The young man had completed four years at a competitive high school to get into Stanford, plus two years of pre-med courses at the university. ...

... say that moments later the young man came rushing back to tell me that he needed to hear what I had to say. It didn't happen. You see, the business I'm in is based on faith. I believe in something bigger than I, but I can't see it. I believe in hope, but I can't measure it. I move ahead through life following my dreams, but I can't touch them. So, I write stories and send them to friends I've never met. I speak to rooms full of people I will never see again. I write and speak about those things that touch us all. Like wanting to believe in something bigger. Finally knowing that when all appears lost, there's always hope. Dreams make today worth living and tomorrow worth waiting for." And so it is"" I believe in you !"~Bob Perks~[ by: Bob Perks Copyright 2005 (2believe @comcast.net)-{ ...

... As Old As I Used To Be The grocery store is a great place to get food for your body, but I have found out recently that it can be an even better place to find food for your heart, soul, and mind. This happened the other day as I was walking through the local store to get some oatmeal. Two elderly ladies were standing by the fruit section catching up on old times. The first one jokingly asked her older friend how old she was now. The older lady answered loudly and to everyone ’ s delight:" Honey, I ’ m not nearly as old as I used to be" Everyone within ear shot laughed when they heard this including me. I realized too as I was walking out of the grocery store that I am not nearly as old as I used to be either. I am not nearly as old as I used to be when I constantly worried about my bills and ...

... everyone around him. His deep, Irish accent seemed to sing when he spoke and every room he entered seemed a little brighter. Over the years I have forgotten the jokes he told and the stories he shared, but one thing he said still lives on in my mind. One evening one of the other teenagers visiting the seminary joked that our smiling" Saint Patrick" certainly didn ’ t fit the mold of the solemn and serious priest. To this our new friend just laughed harder and said," Well my boy if God didn ’ t want us to be happy then why does smiling feel so darned good and frowning feel so darned bad ?" I took that moment with me and stored it in a special place in my soul. Even though I took a different path and didn ’ t become a priest myself, the lesson I learned from that merry Irishman has stayed with me. I knew from that time on that God not ...

... afraid of something you're hugging! And you just might be surprised at how quickly it slips away and at how confident you begin to feel. That beautiful spirit Eleanor Roosevelt said," You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you stop to look fear in the face" But after looking it in the face, how about embracing it? Just imagine yourself putting your arms around whatever is keeping you awake in the night. Make it your friend. because it is! Whatever you fear, once faced and embraced, will actually make you a better person. Now, do you have a monster to hug?~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier Copyright 2008 (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... A Morning Blessing I have been given a special morning blessing several times this Summer. It usually happens on the weekends when I am not awakened by an alarm clock beeping in the dark but instead by the dawn light peeking through my window. After the first rays of sunshine pry my eyelids open, I get up, put my clothes on, and take my dogs out for their morning walk. It is while I am walking my furry friends that I get to see this special morning blessing. It is the rising sun climbing over the trees and shining down on the cemetery next to my backyard. Every time this morning miracle occurs I gaze in awe while my dogs sit patiently by my side. The silent grave stones stand solemnly as a testament that life on this world is brief. They whisper to me that one day I too will no longer be here. They remind me that every moment here is precious and should be treasured ...

... binds them in perfect unity" Regardless of how good looking we may otherwise be, it is these clothes that will determine our actual beauty. This was taught to me by a woman who used to think that if she were granted only one wish, it would be to be beautiful. She saw her wheel-chair dependent body as unsightly and, therefore, she missed her more attractive assets. But when she was finally convinced of some of her beautiful personality traits by her friends, she came to a different point of view. Today she says," Now I know I AM beautiful. Very beautiful" Beauty is soul deep. Learn that and you may realize that you are far more attractive than you ever imagined!~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier Copyright 2007 (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Beatitudes Of Marriage Blessed are the husband and wife who continue to be affectionate, considerate, and loving after the wedding bells have ceased ringing. Blessed are the husband and wife who are as polite and courteous to one another as they are to their friends. Blessed are they who love their mates more than any other person in the world, and who joyfully fulfill their marriage vow of a lifetime of fidelity and mutual helpfulness to one another. Blessed are they who attain parenthood, for children are a heritage of the Lord. Blessed are they who remember to thank God for their food before they partake of it, and who set apart some time each day for the reading of the Bible and for prayer. Blessed are those mates who never speak loudly to one another, and who make their home a place" where seldom is heard a discouraging word" Blessed are the husband and wife who faithfully attend the worship service of the church, ...

... considered a form of persecution? Well, if some other groups were depicted as inaccurately or with such omission in the media, we would be voting on an amendment to the Constitution! Most SAHMs that I know personally are very intelligent women, many with college degrees. They are great financial planners, educators, chefs, physicians, interior decorators, mechanics and any of a million other job titles that we must take on in our daily life as a SAHM. A friend recently described to me a picture she spotted in a magazine at her doctor's office. It was for an article about working moms. The picture had a mom, in her neatly pressed power suit, holding a baby, a frying pan, wearing a crown and surrounded by money. The best of all worlds? With depictions such as this, it is no wonder that we often feel left out, ignored, and persecuted if you will. Where is the story about ...

... us carry around. Of course, guilt serves its purpose. More than once I made a better decision so that I could look myself in the mirror without blushing. And the kits probably also serve a purpose-if nothing else, to remind us to get rid of those unnecessary and destructive feelings we seem to have so much trouble shaking. But if blowing in a bag doesn't do it for you, then you might try another man's method. He hired a friend to go into therapy for him. He says he always hires other people to carry his baggage. And if that doesn't work, here are a few simple steps that that should get at the problem: First, if you make a mistake, resolve to try never to repeat it. The whole function of guilt is to change behavior. We underrate our mistakes as effective learning devises. When possible, welcome your mistake, learn from it and decide to do things differently ...

... lived in a fraternity house, and I think that now he is trying to recreate that experience at home. The pillows I bought for decor are frequently used as arsenal for the wrestling matches. My beautifully designed living room has been taken over by a percussion set and an electric guitar system. My family DVD player exhibits only movies starring Adam Sandler or laden with explosions and special effects. But I'm not complaining. I am counting my blessings. After all, my friend Debbie has three boys, and Kay has four! It takes a pretty sturdy mom to handle a houseful of cub scouts and little leaguers. These are the moms that deserve the merit badges! At night, when the house is finally quiet and the boys are in bed, I still look in on them and marvel at the wonder of all they are. Time slows down for just that moment, and all the peace on earth fills my heart. [by: ...

... there's seven. If you count the net, that's eight. From the opening face-off, I always figure we have 'em eight-on-six" The Great One was so great because, when his chance came to make an impact, he was ready. And because he was ready, chances came again and again. I ’ ve learned this: it doesn ’ t matter what awaits me just across the sea if I haven ’ t built a boat. Many years ago a friend and I were talking about a speaking engagement I had accepted in Los Angeles. “ I ’ d love to go places and speak or lead seminars ,” she said. I asked her, “ What would you speak about? What do you want to teach ?” “ I don ’ t know. I ’ ve always wanted to write a book and lead seminars ,” she said, “ but I ’ ve never gotten around to it ” I ’ ve heard her speak ...

... cat, thank you. To every person who has ever opened their purse or wallet and given to a charity not out of duty but out of love, thank you. To everyone who has ever offered a ride, opened a door, or shared a smile with a stranger, thank you. To every good Samaritan who has stopped along the way to help a person in need, thank you. To every gentle spirit who has shared their laughter, encouraged a friend, or inspired another soul, thank you. To every single person who has tried to make this world a little better through what they do, thank you. And to every soul who not only knows the words" Love your neighbor as yourself" but tries to live them as well, thank you. God doesn ’ t just want each of us to one day reach Heaven, He also wants each of us to bring a little Heaven down here to Earth as ...

... lives overcome by God's righteousness. Whether that is a disobedient 2 year old, or a teenager facing unthinkable peer pressure-we must desire in our hearts for the evil that tempts them to be vanquished by God's will. We want our children to be free from the fear of abduction, abuse, guns in schools, drugs and an entire laundry list of other evils. As SAHMs we must seek God, and pray as intercessors for our children, their teachers, friends and the world. What is our reward for seeking God? The Bible states we will be filled. We know, of course, that this does not mean we will never have trials, or evil will not touch our lives. But, we must take comfort in the fact that our choice to follow God's will for our lives and our families and become SAHMs has allowed us continual opportunities to intercede. It also allows us the opportunity to see our reward, if ...

... to all people, wife, mommy, daughter, PTA chairman, neighbor, and any of a thousand other titles we take upon ourselves. It takes a 'gentle strength ' to administer discipline to a child when your heart wants to hug them. It takes a 'gentle strength ' to leave a wailing toddler with a babysitter to go on a date with your husband. It takes a 'gentle strength ' to say no to a teenager who wants to do something because their friends are doing it-when you really want to make them 2 again. It takes a 'gentle strength ' to stick with it, when every fiber of your being wants to break down and cry, or run away. It takes a 'gentle strength ' to say." I need some time to myself !" But what is our promised reward for 'meekness? Jesus tells us we 'shall inherit the earth ' Hmmm. we get dirt? We get this ball we live on ...

... of what was left of my dinner. When she was done she looked up at me with grateful, big, brown eyes and I didn ’ t have the heart to scold her. After I put my licked clean plate in the sink I petted my dog and smiled. I thought of my Heavenly Father who loved me so much. He didn ’ t offer me the left over scraps of life but instead prepared me a daily feast of love, joy, friendship, family, beauty, and laughter. Each day I found my plate full to overflowing with all the blessings God wanted me to have. Each day I was given not only my daily bread but also His loving company while I ate it. Each day I found the chair pushed out and my place at the table waiting for me to join in this banquet of life. All I had to do was sit down, eat, and ask others to join me as ...

... park and couldn't find his way home." How could it happen ?" asked his wife." You've been going to that park for over 30 years! How could you get lost ?" Leaning close to her ear so that the policeman couldn't hear, he whispered," I wasn't lost-I was just too tired to walk home" These bodies become less cooperative as we age. For some, work becomes less fun and fun becomes more work. One older friend commented," I've reached the age where the warranty has expired on my remaining teeth and internal organs" But I like the spirit of Charles Marowitz." Old age is like climbing a mountain ," he says." The higher you get, the more tired and breathless you become. But your view becomes much more extensive" Atop the mountain, one has a better view of the world. One can see above the differences that divide people. One can better see ...

... . When you wake up, eat your breakfast. Spend some time with God in prayer. Let the Lord review your date book. Offer up your angst and cares. Take a walk or jog three miles. Don't neglect your exercise. Watch your diet. Drink much water. Boycott burgers, Cokes and fries. Make the most of meals with family. Share your feelings. Make amends. View each day as priceless treasure. Count your blessings. Laugh with friends. Learn the art of saying" Sorry! While I'd love to I just can't" Try to just say no more often. Let it be your freedom chant. Guard your day-off like a soldier wearing sneakers, jeans and cap. Let yourself enjoy a hobby. Every Sunday take a nap. Even though it's not a cancer, stress can kill you just the same. So determine you will fight it. Make a stress-free life your aim.~Greg Asimakoupoulos~ ...

... steal his peace by endless nagging. You shall not steal glances from other men by wearing provocative clothes and causing them to stumble. This defrauds your husband of an honorable wife, the other man of pure thoughts, and the man's wife of her husband's faithfulness. You shall not lie to your husband, but you shall speak the truth in love. You shall also practice a quiet and gentle spirit. You shall not covet another woman's husband, her children, her friends, her house, her decorating style, her garden, her looks, her wardrobe, her possessions, her talents and gifts, her ministry, or any other thing that is hers; but you shall be content with all God has given you. [Author Unknown-from Denial Nichols] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... , we must find time in our busy days to remain in a personal relationship with our God. Sneak a few minutes to read a scripture verse and pray between those late night feedings, or waiting at a doctor's appointment. If we seek God's will in becoming SAHMs, we must seek His guidance and comfort on a daily basis-even if it starts with just" stolen" moments. Secondly, seek comfort from other SAHMs. When I was little all my friend's moms were SAHMs (we called them" housewives" back then !). My Mom had lots of support, others looking to stay in a budget, trying to stay on top of the housework, sewing costumes and kissing boo-boos. Today we must actively seek the comfort of liked minded SAHMs. Put a notice in your church bulletin, join a MOPS group, and actively look for others who are following God's desire for them to be at home with their kids. Thirdly ...

... worried over the finances and I would definitely call my myself" poor" in spirit-most days this just doesn't fit. But I can identify with humble or rating myself insignificant on many days. I think about the days when I don't get a shower. Or the days when I need to run to the store, trying to corral an active toddler, wearing blue jean shorts and my" Mom's Barn Mom's Rules" t-shirt, and I run into an old friend who is just getting off work. There she stands in her neatly pressed skirt and blouse, full make-up, freshly cut hair. those days I definitely feel" poor" in spirit. Sound familiar? And then there are the times that I look at the clock and it is 5: 00 p.m. I survey my surroundings and see a jumble of toys, dishes begging to be washed, and laundry in the process of being washed / dried / folded-or ...

... and right is wrapped up in the arms of love. To love is to serve, to give, to be kind, and to help others. To love is to have joy and to bring joy as well. To love is to make this world a better place just by being in it. To love is to create a little Heaven everyday while still here on Earth. To love is to be the wonderful child, caring parent, tender spouse, fantastic friend, and beautiful person that you have always wanted to be. To love is to become the bright, shining soul that God meant for you to become. Fill your days with love then and you will have truly lived. Fill yourself with love and you will be the best possible you. Fill your life with love and your obituary will take care of itself.~Joseph J. Mazzella~You can get Joseph Mazzella's book," WALKING THE PATH OF LOVE ," ...

... He Put The Words In My Mouth Jesus answered," My teaching is not my own. It comes from him who sent me. (John 7: 16 NIV) You are approached by a friend who says," I've been noticing that you seem to be content and at peace all the time. I wish I could be like that. I've got a lot of crazy things happening in my life and I worry about them all the time. I'd like to be like you. What's your secret ?" Obviously, this is a person ready to hear the Good News. But you hesitate, wondering what words to say that will turn him on to Christ, not turn him off. You need not worry. All things come from God, even those words that come from our mouths. You do not have to be a good speaker to spread the Good News. If you trust in God and ask for his guidance, ...

... than any problem. Whether it is sickness, disease, relationship struggles or some other hardship, our life journey will never be perfect because perfection is only found in the Divine. Along with the beauty of laughs and smiles will be the sting of painful tears, disappointments and shattered dreams. Relationships may fail and jobs may fall through, yet will we allow these bumps along the path to alter our ability to possess peace, even joy? The answer, my dear friends, is no! How we perceive crisis when it occurs can either make or break our peace of mind, as well as affect the outcome of the situation. As the above quote conveys, nothing is really a problem because there will always be solutions. The greatest lesson I learned this year is a phrase adopted by Alcoholics Anonymous;" Let go, and let God" The most successful solution to any problem we may face, no matter how large or small, ...

... jam made them upset. They don't realize that they didn't HAVE to get angry. They skipped an important step! Let's try it again:" A"-you get stuck in traffic." B"-you believe that you were given some unexpected and extra time to spend in solitude, to listen to a great tape or to plan your day." C"-the consequence is that you feel gratitude for the gift of time. I have a friend who is fond of saying," A traffic jam has no power to make us angry. It just stops our car" He is aware that between the activating event and the consequence is something that we control: our beliefs about what is happening. The next time you have a problem-at home or at work, big or small-decide to manage your attitude toward it. Practice the A-B-C method. You probably can't change" A ," the activating event. ...

... Making Sense Of Life" Does life ever make sense ?" This was a question asked to me by a friend the other day. Like all of us this lady had seen a lot of suffering, a lot of injustice, and a lot of insanity in this world. She had seen parents having to bury their children, good people having to go through cancer, and hard working souls having to struggle to make ends meet. She had seen wars, famines, and natural disasters. She had seen cruel and selfish people prosper while others with more caring hearts dealt with loss and tragedy. As she looked me in the eyes and asked me that question, I smiled back and said the first words that came from my heart:" only when you love" I think now that those words must have been sent to me by God, because the wisdom in them eased her mind and touched her heart. We talked peacefully a while ...

... odds against you, and the pressure that tears at your resistance,. means courage. Keeping a smile on your face, When inside you feel like dying, For the sake of supporting others,. means strength. Stopping at nothing, And doing what's in your heart, You know is right,. means determination. Doing more than is expected, To make another's life a little more bearable, Without uttering a single complaint,. means compassion. Helping a friend in need, No matter the time or effort, To the best of your ability,. means loyalty. Giving more than you have, And expecting nothing, But nothing in return,. means selflessness. Holding your head high, And being the best you know you can be, When life seems to fall apart at your feet, Facing each difficulty with the confidence, That time will bring you better tomorrows, And never giving up,. means confidence. [ ...

... you directions, but I cannot be there to lead you. I can take you to church, but I cannot make you believe. I can buy you beautiful clothes, but I cannot make you beautiful inside. I can give you love, but I cannot force it upon you. I can teach you to share, but I cannot make you unselfish. I can teach you respect, but I cannot force you to show honor. I can advise you about friends, but cannot choose them for you. I can advise you about sex, but I cannot keep you pure. I can tell you about alcohol & drugs, but I cannot say" no" for you. I can tell you about lofty goals, but I cannot achieve them for you. I can teach you about kindness, but I cannot force you to be gracious. I can pray for you, but I cannot make you walk with God. I can ...

... She sees the stuff under the bed. I guess Mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than Dad. What's the difference between moms and dads? Moms work at work and work at home, and dads just work at work. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them. Dads are taller and stronger, but moms have all the real power because that's who you have to ask if you want to sleep over at your friend's. What does your mom do in her spare time? Mothers don't have spare time. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long. What's the difference between moms and grandmas? About 30 years. You can always count on grandmothers for candy. Sometimes moms don't even have bread on them. Describe the world's greatest mom? She would be able to make broccoli taste like ice cream. The greatest mom in the world wouldn't make me kiss my fat ...

... important words in the Bible are:" God is love" Every moment we spend living in love then is a moment spent living in oneness with God. Try to spend and share some moments for love in your own life today. Pet your dogs, cuddle your cats, and feed the birds. Hug your loved ones, look them in the eye, and say" I love you" Smile at the cashier in the store, give a compliment to a friend, and share a good laugh at work. Open a door for a stranger, help an elderly person with their bags, and do a few random acts of kindness when noone is looking. They only take a few seconds each day, but they bring you joy for a lifetime. It takes so little time to live in love. It takes so few moments to share that love with the world. It is these moments, however, that join your heart to ...

... he'd made a terrible mess. He was sure a scolding was coming, maybe even a spanking. But his father just watched him. Then, walking through the mess, he picked up his crying son, hugged him and loved him, getting his own pajamas white and sticky in the process. That's how God deals with us. We try to do something good in life, but it turns into a mess. Our marriage gets all sticky or we insult a friend or we can't stand our job or our health goes sour. Sometimes we just stand there in tears because we can't think of anything else to do. That's when God picks us up and loves us and forgives us, even though some of our mess gets all over Him. But just because we might mess up, we can't stop trying to" make pancakes ," for God or for others. Sooner or later we'll get it right, and then they'll be glad we ...

... his classmates, but he is troubled because his mother has a terminal illness and life at home must be a struggle" His third grade teacher wrote," His mother's death had been hard on him. He tries to do his best, but his father doesn't show much interest and his home life will soon affect him if some steps aren't taken" Teddy's fourth grade teacher wrote," Teddy is withdrawn and doesn't show much interest in school. He doesn't have many friends and he sometimes sleeps in class" By now, Mrs. Thompson realized the problem and she was ashamed of herself. She felt even worse when her students brought her Christmas presents, wrapped in beautiful ribbons and bright paper, except for Teddy's. His present was clumsily wrapped in the heavy brown paper that he got from a grocery bag. Mrs. Thompson took pains to open it in the middle of the other presents. Some of the children started to laugh when she ...

... my prayer closet. This is where I meet the Lord each morning before my children awake, and at intervals throughout the day as I transfer clothes from baskets to washer, from washer to dryer, from dryer to baskets again. In these twelve and twenty minute snatches, I have found my quiet time. I have never had any trouble finding God in my laundry room. He is always ready to receive my praise, my thanks, my prayers for family and friends, my joys and heartaches too. My four year old son, Jonathan, spent his first two years in and out of the hospital. My laundry room, with its reassuring routine and memories of mornings with God, became the most comfortable place for me when I could not be at my son's side. People must have questioned my sanity when I staggered home from the hospital and made a beeline for the laundry room. How could I explain what it had become? ...

... line. Pray even more. Always listen to that sweet, gentle voice inside of you telling you to do something nice to help another. That is God guiding you. Listen before you speak, forgive before you hate, and help before you hurt. Give this world all of your talents, your laughter, your energy, your joy, and your light. Be an obedient child, a caring spouse, a devoted parent, a doting grandparent, a cherished friend, a giving neighbor, and a good Samaritan every chance you get. Most of all, though, always remember that it is Love that makes a good life" good". In the book" In search of the Beyond ," Carlo Correto gave us these words of wisdom." Let us keep this truth before us. You say you have no faith? Love-and faith will come. You say you are sad? Love-and joy will come. You say you are ...

... they were suppose to do be doing, other times they took turns sitting next to their mom on the small but comfortable couch. Her husband, Al, stood close by, just a few feet away from the shiny teal blue casket that now held his beloved wife of 52 years. The extra tight hugs, the occasional flow of tears, as visitors paid their last respects and extended their condolences to a bereaved husband, were a sobering reminder of why family, friends and neighbors were gathered there. Technically, Al and Mary Keffer were not really my husband Bill's aunt and uncle. Al was my mother-in-law's cousin. But that made no difference. For as long as I've known Bill they have been Aunt Mary and Uncle Al to us. Aunt Mary's passing took us all by surprise. Like most busy families we sometimes lost track of each other on a day to day basis. We'd enjoy each others company at weddings and other family get ...

... alright I headed down the aisle to get help from a store employee. As I glanced back at them, though, I saw something that truly warmed my heart. The baby had finally taken his eyes off the shattered jar and looked up at his Mom. Instead of scolding him or even giving him an angry look she smiled down at him with eyes full of gentle understanding and unconditional love. Her tender gaze and kind smile never changed either not even when a friend gave her some good natured teasing about the mess. I knew then that this Mom was going to give her son a lifetime full of laughter and love. I think that God must smile down on us with that same look at times. We are His beloved Children and yet as hard as we try we often make a mess of things too. We want to learn to love. Still, we stumble, fall, let important things slip through our fingers, and ...

... in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen"" When you tell someone something bad about yourself and you're scared they won't love you anymore. But then you get surprised because not only do they still love you, they love you even more"" Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it every day"" Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well"" During my piano recital, I was on a stage and scared. I looked at all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling. He was the only one doing that. I wasn't scared anymore"" My mommy loves me more than anybody. You don't see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night"" Love is when mommy gives daddy the best piece of chicken"" Love is when ...

... or fails. His love celebrates her victories and soothes her wounds. He stands with her, no matter what life throws in their direction. He may say that he loves her to death. But he doesn't. He loves her to LIFE. For his love nourishes her life like nothing else can. Upon receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, Mother Teresa said:" What can you do to promote world peace? Go home and love your family" And love your friends. Love them without measure. Love them to LIFE.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... confirm my unlovability. Just as a scientist tries to sweep under the carpet evidence from his experiments that counters his hypothesis, I'll try to discount the signs that I actually could be lovable, too, if I believe strongly that I'm not. Therein lies the reason that we can't be loved by someone else until we love ourselves: if someone else expresses love for us in some form, we won't see it as an expression of love. A real-life example: a friend of mine tried and tried one night to" pick me up" at a dance, but because I didn't believe there was any way she would really find me desirable, I figured she was just being silly. I didn't respond to her advances, and only later did I discover she really was interested in me and felt hurt and rejected by my unresponsiveness that night. I didn't believe I was lovable, so I couldn't see the love meant for me. Conclusion: ...

... found her in bed with her hands folded over her white sheets, just as he had seen them folded in prayer over her white apron at the kitchen table so many times before. He wondered what she could give thanks for at a time like this. As if reading his mind, she opened her eyes and gazed at the loving faces around her bed. Then, shutting her eyes again, she said quietly," Much obliged, Lord, for such fine friends" Oursler was deeply influenced by Anna's uncanny ability to always find some reason to be" much obliged" This wise woman taught him a secret that many people have never learned: she taught him how to be happy.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier-Copyright 2010-from Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... they make up their own. When I feel wind on my face, I brace myself against it. I feel it messing up my hair and pulling me back when I walk. My kids close their eyes, spread their arms and fly with it, until they fall to the ground laughing. When I pray, I say thee and thou and grant me this, give me that. My kids say," Hi God! Thanks for my toys and my friends. Please keep the bad dreams away tonight. Sorry, I don't want to go to Heaven yet. I would miss my Mommy and Daddy" When I see a mud puddle I step around it. I see muddy shoes and dirty carpets. My kids sit in it. They see dams to build, rivers to cross and worms to play with. I wonder if we are given kids to teach or to learn from? No wonder God loves the little children !! ...

... Track" Get on the Fast Track to success in life Now !" These were the words blaring out of my car radio when I turned my engine on the other day. I didn ’ t wait to hear what it was advertising before I switched to another station. The fast track in life has never been for me anyway. I have always found my own success in life on the slow track. Being on the slow track gives me time to talk to my friends and be with my family. It lets me watch the sun rise in the morning sky and set at the end of the day. It gives me moments to sip coffee and laugh at the comics in the newspaper. It reminds me to stop and sniff the dogwoods and flowers in the Spring, walk barefoot in the grass in the Summer, romp in the leaves in the Fall, and make snow angels every Winter. It helps me to keep my arms, hands ...

... one thing we are meant to do. It is the one thing we are meant to choose. And it is the one thing we are meant to share. It is what life is all about. If you want to live then you need to love. You need to love God. You need to love yourself. And you need to love others. You need to bring some winter coats to a family in need. You need to cheer up a sick friend. You need to help a neighbor fix up their home. You need to hold a crying child in your arms and comfort them. You need to offer a word of encouragement and kindness to a hurting heart. You need to take the hand of a loved one and let them know just how much you care about them. You need to smile and give your joy to everyone you meet. You need to do the one thing that makes life worth living. It ...

... " When someone lies to you, it teaches you that things are not always what they seem. The truth is often far beneath the surface. Look beyond the masks people wear if you want to know what is in their hearts. Remove your own masks to let people know who you really are. When someone steals from you it teaches you that nothing is forever. Always appreciate what you have. You never know when you might lose it. Never take your friends or family for granted, because today and sometimes only this very moment is the only guarantee you may have. When someone inflicts injury upon you, it teaches you that the human state is a very fragile one. Protect and take care of your body as best as you can, it's the one thing that you are sure to have forever. When someone mocks you, it teaches you that no two people are alike. When you encounter people who are different from you ...

... have time to read it anyway). Replaced it with New Goals, Started reading it today. I threw out childhood toys (remember how I treasured them so )? Got me a NEW PHILOSOPHY too, Threw out the one from long ago. Bought in some new books too, Called I CAN, I WILL, and I MUST. Threw out I might, I think and I ought. WOW, You should've seen the dust. I ran across an OLD FRIEND, Haven't seen him in a while. I believe his name is GOD, Yes, I really like His style. He helped me to do some cleaning And added some thing's Himself. Like PRAYER, HOPE and FAITH, Yes I placed them right on the shelf. I picked up this special thing And placed it at the front door. I FOUND IT-its called PEACE. Nothing gets me down anymore. Yes, I've got my house looking nice. Looks ...

... actually began to live with joy and passion only after they learned they were dying. Like one man said," If you are told you will never see spring again, and you live to see spring, spring takes on a whole new life" (" Modern Maturity ," Sept. / Oct. 2000) Psychologist Abraham Maslow had a similar experience. After his first heart attack he realized that his remaining days on earth were short. He wrote about it to a friend:" My river never seemed so beautiful (Maslow lived in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on the Charles River). The confrontation with death-and reprieve from it-makes everything look so precious, so sacred, so beautiful and I feel more strongly than ever the impulse to love it, to embrace it, and to let myself be overwhelmed by it" Can you imagine feeling that way? He ends with this remarkable statement:" Death and its ever present possibility ...

... , In fact, it's quite relaxable; It can't be stolen, won't pollute, One size fits all, do not dilute. It uses little energy, But yields results enormously. Relieves your tension and your stress, Invigorates your happiness; Combats depression, makes you beam, And elevates your self esteem! Your circulation it corrects-without unpleasant side effects.~~~~~It is, I think, the perfect drug: May I prescribe, my friend,. the hug! (and, of course, it's fully returnable !) [Unknown-from Aiken Drum] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... those bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. Japanese myth has it that cranes live for a thousand years, and anyone who folds 1000 paper cranes will have a wish granted. So during her illness, Sadako folded paper cranes, and with each crane she wished that she would recover from her illness. She managed 644 cranes before she left this life behind. Sadako's classmates folded the remaining 356 cranes so that she could be buried with a thousand paper cranes. Friends collected money from children all over Japan to erect a monument to Sadako in Hiroshima's Peace Park. The inscription reads: This is our cry. This is our prayer. Peace on earth. Each year people place paper cranes at the base of the statue to recall the tragedy of war and to celebrate humanity's undying hope for peace. In some places around the world, people fold paper cranes each holiday season to use as decorations and as a symbol of their deep desire for ...

... because she could get all of the presents out of the bedroom closet and start wrapping them. She sure hoped the kids would like all of the video games, computer software, and designer clothes she had gotten them, and that dad liked all of his new tools and hunting and fishing gear. After all, these things aren't cheap. It ’ s a good thing she had all of those credit cards. She had to wrap presents for all of their other friends and relatives, too. She sure hoped everyone spent as much on her family as she had on theirs, and that they got them something they would like. Heather was coming along well with her decorating, too. She had the house all decorated with Santa's, elves, reindeer, candy canes, stockings and other Christmas items, but she had several boxes left, and she was rapidly filling up all of the available space. By late afternoon, everything appeared to ...

... in the product itself-" Packaging is everything" the old adage goes. The other technique is really a labeling ploy and not much of a change. Make a small insignificant change in the product, and then market it as" new and improved" We can easily get caught up in a similar shell game in our spiritual lives. We make a few cosmetic changes, and then talk about our new insight that has revolutionized everything about our spiritual walk. A friend sent me an e-mail recently and compared it to a" remodeled" café in his area. The owners had painted the place, gotten new menus, and even claimed to have a different manager. Everything was" new and improved" The problem was, the cook was the same, the items listed in the new menus were the same, and the food was as bad as ever. When we first come to the Lord, we are blessed with a new life ...

... few days ago when my neighbor called out to me. She was upset and asked if I had seen her own little black dog. It had gotten out of her yard and hadn ’ t come back since that morning. I spent the rest of that afternoon helping my neighbors search for him but to no avail. That night I said a little prayer that he would be found or follow his nose back home. The next day I was catching up with some friends on Facebook when I saw a picture that my cousin had posted online. There he was. His black furry face was looking sadly into the camera. I quickly let my cousin know that it may be my neighbor ’ s dog that she had found and rescued. Then my son, neighbor, and I hopped into my car and drove the half mile to my cousin ’ s house. The little pooch was waiting for us on the porch and was more than happy ...

... to see the world through the eyes of love. I am going to do my best to keep laughing all of my days here. I am going to keep my mind open for all the joys each day may bring. When my days are done I want my laugh lines deep enough to drive a truck in. When my life here is over I want to hear our Heavenly Father say:" Well lived, well laughed, and well loved !" A good friend of mine recently sent me a framed saying. It says:" Laughter is the music of the heart" I hope then that you always fill your heart with music. I hope that your days are full of giggles, grins, chuckles, and belly laughs. I hope that you laugh and love your way all through this life and right into Heaven.~Joseph J. Mazzella~You can get Joseph Mazzella's book," WALKING THE PATH OF LOVE ," at ...

... that it took me much longer to learn. She knows that money can ’ t buy or even rent happiness. She knows that you never rise higher than when you stoop to help up another. She knows that laughter exercises the lungs and love opens up the heart. She knows that a good cry isn ’ t a bad thing. It washes out your eyes so you can see more clearly. She knows that petting a dog warms your heart and hugging a friend uplifts your soul. She knows that doing what you love and loving what you do turns work into play. She knows that children are life ’ s most precious gift and that every child should be treated with gentleness, kindness, and love. My daughter knows that life often isn ’ t fair, that society often isn ’ t wise, and that everyone of us will face our share of problems. She also knows, however, that with love in our hearts ...

... hug before going off to play. Nanny would always slip me a quarter to buy a pop as well. Nanny also had her tougher side. She had a temper. She could yell with the best of them. When people stole the dandelion wine she had sitting in the sun one day she taught us all a few Italian words and phrases that we hadn ’ t heard. Still, she always led with her heart and shared her love freely with family, friends, and strangers alike. She lived to be over 90 years old but died way too soon. We all cried when she died, but I know that Heaven rejoiced at getting her back. A part of her, though, is still living here in the hearts and minds of those she left behind. My Nanny had a wonderful life here. She lived. She loved. She laughed. She cooked, cared, and cried. She touched a lot of hearts ...

... are waiting to be realized. Decisions are too important, to leave to chance. Reach for your peak, your goal and your prize. Nothing wastes more energy, than worrying. The longer one carries a problem, the heavier it gets. Don't take things too seriously. Live a life of serenity, not a life of regrets. Remember, that a little love goes a long way. Remember, that a lot of love goes forever. Remember, that friendship is a wise investment. Life's treasures, are people. together. Realize, that it's never too late. Do ordinary things, in a extraordinary way. Have health, hope and happiness. Take the time, to wish upon a star. And don't ever forget. For even a day. How very special you are. [Author Unknown-from 'E-Mail Ministry ' (EMailMinistry @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... huge size. This car was older than I was at the time and drank more gas than a dozen pick-up trucks. It had rotted wiring that my dad had to replace more than once. The windshield wipers were broke. The battery died often. The radio didn ’ t work and I only had one, scratchy cassette for the tape player. It often took quite a while to start and would backfire loud enough to be heard in the next county. My friends and teachers would often joke that they noticed buzzards circling my car when I was in class. Still, this was the car I depended on to commute long distances everyday and more often than not it got me there. In a lot of ways too this car was a lot like life. The more you complained about it the worse it got. If I would complain about the gas milage one of the bald tires would blow out. If I would grouch about the ...

... in the evening. Life is also riding a bike, swimming in the ocean, and walking in the woods. Life is also singing a joyous song, reading a good book, and enjoying a delicious meal. Life is also laughing through your pain, learning from your problems, and loving through all the difficulties you may face. Life is also giving your children a big hug, sharing a warm smile with a stranger, and saying a kind compliment to a friend. Life is also helping a person in need, holding the hand of a scared and lonely soul, and giving your warmth and kindness to a hurting heart. Life is also caring for your family, serving your community, and making the world a better place. Life is also spreading your joy, shining your light, and sharing your love. Life is also learning what God wants you to learn, doing what God wants you to do, and becoming who God ...

... Little Things When I was in college, I shared an American Thanksgiving supper with friends. We spent the day cooking together – turkey, potatoes, green beans, yams and, of course, dinner rolls. I was in charge of the rolls. Looking back, that may have been a mistake. I love to eat raw dough. Most any kind will do – cookie dough, cake batter, biscuit dough, bread dough – you get the idea. So I rolled out the yeast dough, sliced off a corner and ate it, rolled some more, sliced and ate, rolled, sliced, ate …. I don't know how much of the dough I consumed before the rolls hit the oven, but I remember it as a wonderful afternoon. Until about a half-hour later. Yeast, it seems, likes a dark, moist, warm environment. In me, it found one and did what yeast does best – it ...

... I Am Optimistic I am optimistic about the future of the human race. Now many of my friends have asked me time and again how I can have such hope for the future in the face of the problems we have today. Hunger, pollution, sickness, inflation, recession, unemployment, wars, and terrorism fill so many hearts with fear. This world seems to be overflowing too with greed, hypocrisy, anger, hatred, prejudice, and intolerance. A better life for ourselves and our children seems for many to be some impossible dream. How then can I be so optimistic? My optimism comes from looking into the hearts and souls of all the people I see everyday. I see a little boy holding open a heavy door for an elderly man walking with a cane. I see a young mother carrying a baby in her arms buy an extra box of macaroni in the store and put it in the food drive box to ...

... be glad my finances encourage me to plan my purchases wisely and guide me away from waste. Today I can grumble about my health or. I can rejoice that I am alive. Today I can lament over all my parents didn't give me when I was growing up or. I can feel grateful they allowed me to be born. Today I can cry because roses have thorns or. I can celebrate that thorns have roses. Today I can mourn my lack of friends or. I can excitedly embark upon a quest to discover new relationships. Today I can whine because I have to go to work or. I can shout for joy because I have a job to do. Today I can complain because I have to go to school or. I can eagerly open my mind and fill it with rich new tidbits of knowledge. Today I can murmur dejectedly because I have to do housework or. I can feel honored because God has provided ...

... believe the highest compliment my child ever gives me is when they come to me with a problem or want to talk about something that is really important to them. I know that they have many choices about who they share their thoughts and feelings with. When they were in elementary school their mother or I most often heard about the events and concerns that were nearest their heart. But as they got older and our parental ears were more and more often replaced by their friends and classmates, teachers and coaches, and I know that we were increasingly left out of the loop. It's not easy, but it's natural. Since the opportunity doesn't come as often as it once did, when it does I want to make it count. I may not get another chance for a while. Unfortunately, two very normal responses can make a mess of things in a hurry. Number One: I love them more than anything on earth and I don't ...

... , you'll miss them when they're gone from your life. I've learned that making a" living" is not the same thing as making a" life" I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back. I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you, but if you focus on your family, your friends, the needs of others, your work and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you. I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision. I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one. I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love that human touch-holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back ...

... gift bearing gentiles would think about our glut of gift giving; about our wanting and demanding, pushing and shoving to get just the right gift at just the right price. I wonder what they would say if they could hear a child-influenced by television and by family tradition-demand that his parents (or Santa Clause) get him another" accessories sold separately, batteries not included" fad toy of the year. They would all probably feel, as a friend of ours so eloquently states, that we" just don't get it" The truth is, the Creator of the Universe gave a gift to this world on that special night, so long ago. This gift was wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger. It was a ray of warm sunshine in a cold, dark land. It was a gift of hope in a world gone wrong. It was God putting on skin and walking among men. This baby ...

... picture. Getting hung up on the little pieces only leads to frustration. Perseverance pays off. Every important puzzle went together bit by bit, piece by piece. When one spot stops working, move to another. But be sure to come back later (see #4). The creator of the puzzle gave you the picture as a guidebook. Variety is the spice of life. It's the different colors and patterns that make the puzzle interesting. Working together with friends and family makes any task fun. Establish the border first. Boundaries give a sense of security and order. Don't be afraid to try different combinations. Some matches are surprising. Take time often to celebrate your successes-even little ones. Anything worth doing takes time and effort. A great puzzle can't be rushed. [Author Unknown-from 'Sermon Fodder ' (Sermon_Fodder @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... I've Come To Help You may remember the old Flip Wilson routine when someone asked the comic about his religion. He answered," I am a Jehovah's Bystander"" A Jehovah's Bystander ?" remarked his friend." I never heard of a Jehovah's Bystander" Flip said," Well, they asked me to be a witness, but I didn't want to get involved" In these troubled times, I think Edmund Burke is right." The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil ," he says," is for good men to do nothing" We can complain about injustices, we can lament the suffering of the world and even feel sorry for the helpless plight of others. Or we can do what we can, even if it's only a little. Theodore Roosevelt read a book by New York newspaperman Jacob Riis titled HOW THE OTHER HALF LIVES. We often think of the" other half" as living in luxury. The ...

... It's Up to You One song can spark a moment, One flower can wake the dream. One tree can start a forest, One bird can herald spring. One smile begins a friendship, One handclasp lifts a soul. One star can guide a ship at sea, One word can frame the goal. One vote can change a nation, One sunbeam lights a room. One candle wipes out darkness, One laugh will conquer gloom. One step must start each journey, One word must start each prayer. One hope will raise our spirits, One touch can show you care. One voice can speak with wisdom, One heart can know what's true. One life can make the difference, You see, IT'S UP TO YOU! [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... It's Between You And God People are often unreasonable, Illogical, and self-centered; Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, People may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives; Be kind anyway. If you are successful, You will win some false friends and some true enemies; Succeed anyway. If you are honest and frank, People may cheat you; Be honest and frank anyway. What you spend years building, Someone could destroy overnight; Build anyway. If you find serenity and happiness, They may be jealous; Be happy anyway. The good you do today, People will often forget tomorrow; Do good anyway. Give the world the best you have, And it may never be enough; Give the world the best you've got anyway. You see, in the final analysis, It is between you and God; It never was between you and them anyway. Be Blessed, Mother Theresa [by Mother Theresa- ...

... Household Tips Do your friends a favor. Pass along few of these handy tips. Stuff a miniature marshmallow in the bottom of a sugar cone to prevent ice cream drips. Use a meat baster to" squeeze" your pancake batter onto the hot griddle and you'll get perfectly shaped pancakes every time. To keep potatoes from budding, place an apple in the bag with the potatoes. To prevent eggshells from cracking, add a pinch of salt to the water before hard-boiling. Run your hands under cold water before pressing Rice Krispies treats in the pan and the marshmallow won't stick to your fingers. To get the most juice out of fresh lemons, bring them to room temperature and roll them under your palm against the kitchen counter before squeezing. To easily remove burnt on food from your skillet, simply add a drop or two of dish soap and enough water to cover bottom of pan, and bring to a boil on stovetop. Spray your ...

... feel comforted." I am at home in this place ," we might say. It's a state of well-being and solace. If home is as much about attitude as it is about latitude, then we never need feel too far from home. That's good to know, especially during those times when we find our thoughts homeward bound. Can you make the place you are a space of peace? Can you find comfort in your surroundings and warmth in the company of friends? If so, even if you're not at the place you live, you will be at home.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier-Copyright 2011-from Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... situation or a painful circumstance in our life to" swallow us up" This season in our spiritual growth is a holding pattern. We can't move to the left or the right. All we can do is sit, like Jonah sat in the belly of that great fish, so God can have our undivided attention and speak to us. God put Jonah in a holding pattern because He needed to speak to his heart. Jonah was all alone. There were no friends to call, no colleagues to drop by, no books to read, no food to eat, no interference, and no interruptions. He had plenty of time to sit, think, meditate, and pray. When we're deep down in the midst of a difficult situation, God can talk to us. When He has our undivided attention, He can show us things about ourselves that we might not otherwise have seen. A Few of God's Holding Patterns: When you ...

... about a bright young man who was a sophomore Stanford pre-med student. To reward him for having done so well in school, his parents gave him a trip to the Asia for the summer. While there he met a guru who said to him," Don't you see how you are poisoning your soul with this success-oriented way of life? Your idea of happiness is to stay up all night studying for an exam so you can get a better grade than your best friend. Your idea of a good marriage is not to find the woman who will make you whole, but to win the girl that everyone else wants." That's not how people are supposed to live ," the sage admonished." Give it up; come join us in an atmosphere where we all share and love each other" The young man had completed four years at a competitive high school to get into Stanford, plus two years of pre-med courses at the university. ...

... How To Stay Young Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay" them". Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle." An idle mind is the devil's workshop" And the devil's name is Alzheimer's. Enjoy the simple things. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive. Surround yourself with what you love, Whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, ...

... ," of which he earlier wrote, was between the states and the federal government" meant to make sure the central authority didn't meddle with the customs of local jurisdictions ," wrote Mr. Evans. He continued:" In point of fact, America's constitutional settlement-up to and including the First Amendment-was the work of people who believed in God, and who expressed their faith as a matter of course in public prayer and other governmental practice" That, my friends, is our nation's true heritage. It is a birthright of prayerful endeavors by admittedly imperfect men who truly believed in an active and loving God. The politically-correct dictators, who require history to reflect their shameful efforts, cannot alter the truth of our splendid historic record. May the words and deeds of our brave forefathers take root in our hearts once again as we attempt to recapture the glory of our beloved nation. I wish you and yours a wonderful and fulfilling Independence Day ...

... How's Your Vision? One woman laughs about the time she took her 14-year-old daughter and her daughter's best friend to a Peter, Paul and Mary concert. They were all fans of" oldies" music from the 60's and 70's and felt lucky to get front row seats. When they returned home, her daughter said," During the show, we looked back and saw hundreds of little lights swaying to the music. At first we thought the people were holding up cigarette lighters. Then we realized that the lights were the reflections off all the eyeglasses in the audience" (Thanks to" Reader's Digest ") My eyesight isn't what it used to be, either. But as Helen Keller (who could neither hear nor see) said," The greatest tragedy in life is people who have sight but no vision" Maybe I should be more concerned with my vision than with my eyesight. There are numerous stories of people who lacked vision ...

... ," he continued. Then he gave her assurance that was to last a lifetime." When the time comes that some of us have to die, you will look into your heart and find the strength you need-just in time" Some years later Corrie and her family, arrested for sheltering Jews and members of the Dutch resistance, were sent to Nazi concentration camps. She, indeed, experienced the deaths of her parents and sister, as well as numerous friends. She endured hardships that she could never have imagined as a young child. But the words of her father stayed with her and proved to be true." You will look into your heart and find the strength you need-just in time" She always did. Regardless of the suffering or hardship she encountered, when she looked inside her heart she found the strength she needed-just in time. If you worry and fret, or if you feel anxious about ...

... those forty-five minutes of rest. By day's end you are exhausted, and wonder was the extra sleep worth it. I've had days like that. Days that I have been so exhausted both physically and mentally, I could and have cried. I'm learning though. When I feel overwhelmed with work and self-pity, I turn to my Creator. I ask Him to open my eyes, so that I may see what is really important in my life. My family, friends, and health. I behold His wonders. The sweet song of a bird. The vastness of the ocean. The beauty of the mountains. The delicate petals of a flower. The splendor of the colors in a sunset. All of His glorious creation that surrounds me. How insignificant my problems then seem to be. How wonderfully blessed my day has become. [by Dawn Stobart Copyright 2003-submitted by: Dawn Stobart] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Let Your Soul Sing The birds are singing again in the mountains of my home. The warm, March air is carrying dozens of different songs to my delighted ears as I walk my dogs in the morning. Everywhere I go I can hear the sweet music coming from my feathered friends in the treetops. This year there are even several Woodpeckers providing a nice drum section to back up the wonderful choir of happiness that I am hearing. Every song is such a pleasure to hear. Each one is special. Each one is full of joy. Each one is full of love. Each one is full of life. All of them are blending together as well into one glorious song of thanks to God. Spring may look like sunshine and smell like flowers, but in my ears it will always sound like birdsong. My little singers are helping me to remember something very important as well. They are reminding me that I still have my ...

... let go of those deep-seated resentments. But angry and bitter lives are never happy lives. A beautiful legend tells of an African tribe that ritualizes forgiveness. When a tribe member acts irresponsibly or unjustly, he / she is taken to the center of the village. All work ceases and every man, woman and child in the village gathers in a large circle around the accused. Then the tribe bombards the rejected person with affirmations! One at a time, friends and family enumerate all the good the individual has done. Every incident, every experience that can be recalled with some detail and accuracy is recounted. All their positive attributes, strengths and kindnesses are recited carefully and at length. Finally, the tribal circle is broken, a joyous celebration takes place, and the outcast is welcomed back into the tribe. What a beautiful ritual of restoration! They replace hurt with happiness; pain with peace. Once again they are family. ...

... best way to do it is to let go of past failures. But that's not all. One can never fully enjoy today while dwelling too much on past successes, either. People never succeed while resting comfortably on their laurels. As Ivern Ball has said," The past should be a springboard, not a hammock" The fact is, sometimes our successes hold us back more than our failures! I once heard a story about the actor Clark Gable. A friend paid Gable a visit one afternoon at the actor's home. She brought along her small son, who amused himself by playing with toy cars on the floor. He pretended he was racing those cars around a great track, which in reality was an imaginary circle around a golden statuette. The small statue the boy played with was actually the Oscar Clark Gable won for his performance in the 1934 movie It Happened One Night. When his mother told him the time had come to ...

... used to love to swim as a boy. My home was just a short walk away from the local pool and I used to spend most of my Summer days there. I would head out early with just my trunks and a towel. I always got there before it opened and then stayed until closing time. It was four hours of pure joy. I loved to dive in that cool, clean water. I would swim, splash, play games with my friends, talk, laugh, and only dry off during the breaks. I always walked home in the evenings with a smile on my face too. As a boy I thought Summertime at the pool was about as good as life could get. There were some people who came to the pool that I never could understand, however. They would show up everyday carrying around and watching over these huge, heavy bags full of stuff. They would be all dressed up in fancy ...

... me. But don ’ t judge me. Just understand me. Please" The truth is that our relationships work when communication works. And communication works when we hear the words behind the words; when it becomes as important for us to listen as it is for us to speak; and, when we truly understand each other. For me, it takes more than merely listening with my ears. I also have to listen with my heart. My colleague and friend Roy Trueblood collaborated on the book MANAGING FROM THE HEART [Managing from the Heart] In it, the authors discuss what it means to communicate from the heart as well as from the head. Here are five principles of" H-E-A-R-T" communication. These are great tips for better talking and listening in personal relationships. H-Hear and understand me. E-Even if you disagree, please don ’ t make me wrong. A-Acknowledge the greatness within me. ...

... is bending down to pet a dog, scratch a cat, or talk to a child. It is saying," please, thank you, your welcome, and I love you" It is passing on a few kind words, an honest compliment, and a bit of encouragement to those around us. It is taking a few moments everyday to say," I love you God and I thank you for my life" It is saying a prayer for a friend and doing all you can to help God make that prayer come true. It is doing what you are able, with what you are given, to make this world a bit more like Heaven. It is little things like these that make our days good and the world better. It is little things like these that make our hearts swell and our spirits sing. It is little things like these that put the life in living. To paraphrase the wise words of Og ...

... Listen With Your Eyes An expert on whales was telling friends about some of the unusual findings he had made." For instance ," he said," some whales can communicate at a distance of 300 miles"" What on earth would one whale say to another 300 miles away ?" asked a sarcastic member of the group." I'm not absolutely sure ," answered the expert," but it sounds something like this: 'Heeeeeeey! Can you hear me nowwww !?! '" Hearing well is only part of effective communication. But another, and often more important part, is frequently overlooked. It does not concern the ears, however, but the eyes. According to Leil Lowndes (TALKING THE WINNER'S WAY, Contemporary Books) Boston researchers asked opposite-sex individuals to have a two-minute casual conversation. They tricked half their subjects into maintaining intense eye contact by directing them to count the number of times their partner blinked. They gave the other half of ...

... quick. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask," Why do you want to know ?". Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk. Call your mom. Say" bless you" when you hear someone sneeze. When you lose, don't lose the lesson. Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect for others; Responsibility for all your actions. Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it. Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice. Marry a man you love to talk to. As you get older, his conversational skills will be as important as any other. Spend some time alone. Open your arms to change, but don't let go of your values. Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer. Read more books and watch ...

... Led Around By Your" Gotta Haves" Two women who had just met at a health spa were talking about their lifestyles and how they hoped to stay healthy. One asked the other to detail her daily routine." I eat moderately ," she replied," I exercise moderately, I drink moderately, and I live moderately"" Is there anything else you do ?" her new friend asked." Yes ," she said," I lie extensively" I sometimes say I subscribe to the precept that all things should be done in moderation. Trouble is, I often follow THAT principle in moderation, too. Not that we should be overly rigid. But self-imposed discipline is an absolute necessity if we are to be in control of our lives. And success and happiness is simply not possible without inner control. A few years back, two Tennessee convicts dug under a fence and escaped to freedom. Within hours they were recaptured and returned ...

... these mythical Jones are. I am not sure how expensive their house is or how shiny their just bought car looks. I am uncertain about how many new electronic goodies they have purchased or what they do. I have no idea either about what designer labels are on their clothes. I do know that I don ’ t want to keep up with them, however. Life is more than just things. Life is joy, laughter, and love. Life is friends and family. Life is caring and sharing. Life is a gift from God and I am not going to waste it shopping for more wrapping paper. I think I will try to keep up with the angels rather than the Jones then. I may never match the love they share, the good they do, or the truth they spread but I sure will have the time of my life trying. I may not have as much stuff to carry around, but that ...

... of Jesus now. We tend to get exactly the kind of government we deserve. If you make a time line or a graph, you will see that the exponential increase in public school violence, pregnancy, and foul language all started at exactly the time the Supreme Court threw prayer and Bible reading out of the schools. We told God we didn't need HIM, and the results speak for themselves. JUST SUPPOSE hundreds of Christians passed this message on to all their friends, leaders, and contacts. JUST SUPPOSE hundreds of churches, organizations and ministries passed this message on to their constituencies with a request to reprint, re-paste, and repeat it wherever possible.Once upon a time the Church was the moral conscience and spiritual lighthouse of the nation. Now, most congregations are impotent, minor-league social welfare agencies or mutual comfort societies with no impact on the world around their little enclave. JUST SUPPOSE-What do you suppose you should do? YOU MAY ...

... . I have no respect for justice. I maim without killing. I break hearts and ruin lives I am cunning and malicious & gather strength with age. The more I am quoted the more I am believed. I flourish at every level of society. My victims are helpless. They cannot protect themselves against me because I have no name and no face. To track me down is impossible The harder you try, the more elusive I become. I am nobody's friend. Once I tarnish a reputation, it is never the same. I topple governments and ruin marriages. I end ministries set up by God. I ruin careers and cause sleepless nights, heartache and indigestion. I spawn suspicion and generate grief. I make innocent people cry in their pillows. Even my name hisses. I AM CALLED GOSSIP. Church gossip Office gossip Shop gossip Party gossip Online gossip Telephone gossip I make headlines & headaches! Before You Repeat A Story, ...

... Laughing Angels My youngest son doesn ’ t talk much. He has severe Autism that hampers his ability to speak and communicate. It also locks him in his own world much of the time. Yet, when he laughs and smiles he can light up the darkest day. Sometimes he will break into a spontaneous spasm of giggles for no apparent reason at all. When this happens my daughter and I will often joke that his dearly departed Grandma and her angel friends must be tickling him. The other night while I was busy working at my desk I once more heard his musical laughter behind me. I asked," Son are the angels tickling you again ?" and got an even louder burst of giggles as an answer. I smiled and turned around to see him. There he stood under the ceiling fan with its glass globe glowing above his head like a halo. Dangling from it too was a glass angel figurine that we had tied ...

... joyously remember all the light we can share too. We all have one advantage over my blinking buddies, though. We can leave our lights on. We can shine them in the darkest night and add light to the sunniest day. We can light up the hearts around us with our love and brighten every soul we meet with our happiness. We can shine our goodness, kindness, and oneness with God so that everyone can see. And just like my firefly friends we can help others to get their lights shining as well. Don ’ t be afraid to shine your light. Don ’ t be afraid to leave it on even when the world around you seems dark. Shine it brightly. Shine it joyously. Shine it lovingly. Let it glow in oneness with God ’ s light as well. Before you know it you will no longer be a lone firefly in the darkness. Before you know it others all around you will ...

... they make up their own. When I feel wind on my face, I brace myself against it. I feel it messing up my hair and pulling me back when I walk. My kids close their eyes, spread their arms and fly with it, until they fall to the ground laughing. When I pray, I say thee and thou and grant me this, give me that. My kids say," Hi God !!! Thanks for my toys and my friends. Please keep the bad dreams away tonight. Sorry, I don't want to go to Heaven yet. I would miss my Mommy and Daddy" When I see a mud puddle, I step around it. I see muddy shoes and clothes and dirty carpets. My kids sit in it. They see dams to build, rivers to cross and worms to play with. I wonder if we are given kids to teach or to be taught? No wonder God loves the ...

... Positive Thoughts To change everything. simply change your attitude. A friend is a person who knows all about you, but likes you anyway. A survey asked" Who are the happiest people ?" There were four winning answers: A craftsman or artist whistling over a job well-done. A child building sand castles. A mother bathing her baby. A doctor who has finished a difficult operation and saved a life. Please note that money, power, or possessions, plays no part in any of the answers. He who goes out of his house in search of happiness runs after a shadow. Good manners sometimes means simply putting up with other people's bad manners. Do you always want to be right, or do you want to be happy? It is my observation that too many of us are spending money we haven't earned, to buy things we don't need, to impress people we don't like. The most important thing a father can ...

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