forgetting?

Why is it we often times forget our Lord. We remember him when we are soaring like eagles or sitting on top the high mountains. However when we are in the darkest forest, the depth of dispare or in the deep valley we forget him.

We forget that he says "I will never leave thee or forsake." We forget that hs is always with us and will not forsake us. He will be with us always.

It is when we are going through those times he is actually closer to us then we realize. He is carrying us through. David said in Psalms 23 "even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil for you are with me. Your rod and staff protect me."

I realize that some of yu reading this are going through some storms in life. realize they will pass. know that weeping may be during the night but joy comes in the morning. The joy of the Lord is our strength.

It is the Lord who will protect us. Satan wants us to think we are forgotten and neglected. this is false the Lord gathers us under his wings like a hen gathers her little chicks. we often feel that the Lord has abandoned us. he has not. we drop the ball it is true but he picks up the ball is ready to hand it back to us.

The solutions is easy but hard. Let Jesus take the wheel of our life and drive. he knows where all the bumps are and can avoid them. it is when we try to tak the wheel and drive we drop in cracks and sputter and get lost. but Jesus is there and ready to take over if we will let him. he will never push his way but will allow circumstances to come our way that will cause us to look to him for guidance and help. circumstances may get severe before we really realize how desperately we need Jesus. but we can get through them for he will not suffer us to go through more then we are able to handle.

321 action

It is said that action is fast but slow by some or not at all with others. there was a song that came out years back by Petra in which the chorus went "sometimes God's childrend should be seen not heard, to much talk and not enough walk"

This is so true. many christians are guilty of talking more then walking. I've been guilty at times of this. but if we act more then we talk the world will observe and may very well believe. James said it best faith without works is dead. so what are works? they are deeds that we do I realize.

However, in doing deeds we ar doing action right? let our actions line up with our talk and vice versa. to many times we say one thing and do something else. thgis sends mixxed messages to the world around us.

there are some that will say "I can't help but..." I say. yes you can help doing... With the help of the Lord via his Holy Spirit you sure can. we need to get the word "can't" out of our vocabulary and look for ways that we can. if we ineed are unable then we need to find a way to find a way. not just talk about doing it but follow through and do it. this is easier said then done I realize but if you take thoughts captive and submit daily to the Lord you'll be surprised what you'll be able to do. you can "do all things through Christ who strengthens you." start claiming God's promises and starting acting and speak alike and watch and see what the Lord will do.

feeling saved?

I've been asked a few times "how does it feel to be saved?" usually this is asked of me sarcastly. I usually respond

"I don't have to feel saved to know that I am saved." "I have the same emotions as anyone else and being saved doesn't eliminate some emotions."

It is only because of what Jesus did that I can even be saved. The fact that he came as was fortold and died and rose again. that is how I know that I am saved. because the Bible says "whosoever" will call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. there are days when I don't feel saved. in fact I have days where I don't look saved or even smell saved. I know though that I am.

I do my best to monitor my actions though. because it is true that actions speak louder then words. You may say that you are saved. but...

If you hit people, spit on others and do things that others who are not saved while at the same time say I am a christian. how do you think you'll win others for the cause of Christ.

actions and words need to match. on the other side if you act saved but when the spot light is off you you say or use terms that don't show your salvation then the same deal applies.

I am not saying that I am perfect. I do mess up. but I know that when I do I can go to my Lord ans Saviour and ask for forgiveness and know that I am forgiven. this is no excuse mind you but rest assured once I have accept Jesus in my heart he will never leave. I can not do anything to get rid of him. like the old commercial says "i am stuck on bandades and bandades stuck on me" I am stuck on Jesus and Jesus is stuck on me.

let our actions and word match and let us be bold for the Lord Jesus and set on world on fire with the truth of Jesus Christ. He'll forvige anyone for anything they've ever done or ever will do. how do I know the Bible tells me. so.

child like faith

It is amazing! Children have amazing faith. They believe so sweetly and simplely. If only we could have this kind of faith.

I realize that it is difficult because we allow our minds to be clouded by our experience in the past and current experiences. But Jesus said "unless you become like children you can't enter the kingdom" This comes from a conversation that I recently had.

A couple of days ago I was talking with a friend. I had just met her son the day prior to this conversation. On their way to Chuckie Cheese he wanted to know if I would be there. she told him taht maybe some other time. He had been to Vacation Bible School the week prior and brought up a story that he remembered. He recalled about Jesus healing the blind man by putting "mud" or clay on his eyes. He simplely told his mom "I know what can help dan" she ask what "he just needs to put mud on his eyes"

a child's faith! how I wish it was that simple for me to get my sight back. But the point was that Jesus can heal me. he realized this and was hoping that it could happen. We need to get off our high horse and become like children and accept things as they come. we need to have faith and trust in our Lord and know that he can do awesome things.

do I believe that I can be healed of my blindness? yes! I do! but I know this for certain that Jesus has a plan for me. if it means that I don't see again until I see Him in glory then so beit. but if sooner! then I am ready. Kids always say the coolest thigns. it is time we adults start listening a little closer. Who knows what truths they can help open our eyes to.
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the tongue

We all use it and have one. A tongue that is. and how we use our tongue is sometimes a huge problem.

James tells us that "out of the mouth come praising and cursing, this shouldn't be." This is true. We are often quick to praise God for all he's done in our lives. and sometimes far to quick to curse others for things they've done or haven't done.

We should think befor we speak. we should listen twice as much as we speak. that is why we have 2 ears and only one mouth. I realize that people do things that get under our skin but think befor you speak.

You should think "if Jesus did this how would I speak" we need to speak in love and not with intent to hurt or condemn and with a vengance.

The saying "stick and tones may break my bones but your names will never hurt me:" is a lie! names do hurt. I think we could see the wounds we cause by our words we'd probably think twice. Words can heal as well. so think befor you speak.

for some this is more difficult then others I realize. but it is a practice one needs to do. the Psalmist says "let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you oh Lord my God and redeemer"

I realize that someone may have said something that hurts big time. think befor you say in response and speak in love. sometimes what we have to say may hurt but do it in a way that shows your love for that person. Every action has a reaction. we all have seen that the shortest words or such spoken or writen can cause a world of trouble or a world of good.

in closing it is not what you say that is going to get your message to someone. it is HOW!! you say what you say that is going to convey a message whether intended or not. you may say "i didn't mean it that way." but how did you say it? that is key.

God bless and we'll post soon.

healing

Leththe healing begin. many of us experience hurt. we've been hurt by someone who may or may not have intended to hurt us. but we need to allow ourselves to heal from those wounds.

you may say it hurts to heal. I say yes it does. this is because the crud has to be washed out of the wound. how does it begin? well the person who did the hurt needs to come and apologize and repent.

we as believers in Christ are commanded and instructed to forgive that person. is it easy? no it is not. it hurts sometimes to forgive but one must forgive in order for the healing process to begin. it takes times to heal and one needs to be patient. One needs to keep looking to Jesus the devine healer.

will the wound leave a scar? it might. it might be visable for a time. but time heals all wounds and once we are completely healed then things return to normal.

however the key to the healing begining is forgiveness. sometimes easy but sometimes hard. but always important and needed.

will the wound be reopend? sometimes but if that happens then healing still takes place and the same remendy must happen. but we also need to be willing for healing to take place.

ome people seem to love being wounded and showing their wounds and they seem to be proud of them. this isn't good some times we need to cut ties in order for true healing to begin. but what ever you do do according to the leading the Holy Spirit and no way else.

forgiveness

It has come to my attention that I need to write about forgiveness. I realize that this is not always easy for us to do.

But I assure it is vitally important. You may ask how often? I say always. no limit to how often.

I know that some hurts are more difficult to forgive then others. But we are still commanded in scripture to forgive. I John tells us that "if we can't forgive our own brother who we see how can we expect God to forgive us" I am not saying that God doesn't forgive us for any and all wrongs "sins" but we need to have the attitude of forgiveness. because we know we are forgiven for our mistakes and expect to be forgiven. we should forgive and put the past in the past.

it is difficult but is needed and you'd be surprised how much better you'll feel in the long run.

when we forgive we are showing Christ. and when others see that then who knows what may happen. you very well coulkd be that one example that they see that brings them to Christ. the world is always looking at us wondering how and when we will act. if we act anything but godly then they see no difference and won't convert however show Christ and forgive even when it hurts well that is another story. I am sure that it hurt the Father to see his son hanging on the cross paying for our sin but yet he still forgives us for our sin and accepts us and loves us just the same.

life choices

We all have decisions or choices that we need to make in life. Some of these are extremely simple; while others take a lot of thought and others need to be prayed about big time. However, in my thoughts over the last few months, it all comes down to 3 decisions that are extremely important. The result of which will have major effects. The first obvious one is "where youare going to spend eternity." I explained how to make this decision in my last post and it is my hope that you have done so. The other 2 while important don't rank as important as the first one here. These are:
choosing to be a victum or victor.

Whatever the choice you make it will have major impact for years to come. Like all decisions we make. All decisions wil have an impact on our future and others. maybe not an immediate impact but it will have an impact.

You can choose to be a victum. one who just sits and cries and complains that it isn't going your way. A victum always blames others for his/her problems and struggles and doesn't see that it is possible. They cry and moan loudly and unbearablely.

You can choose the opposite. That is to say you can choose to be a VICTOR!!! A victor stands up. takes notice and gets the job done. A victor says "if it is going to be I will get it done one way or another." they realize that troubles come but they lookat them as challenges that will help them grow and become stronger. They realize if it it is not truly possiblely for them to do it then they find someone or something that will get it done. They exhaust all avenues before giving up.

Victors are more thrilling to be around in fact their attitude is contagious and has an almost immediate impact on those around them. their decisions impact all around like the victum. but the victor accepts responsiblity for what is happening and knows that their decision to or not to do something will impact for the good or bad.

I will admit aht not all decisions we make are good. in fact many of them are not. however not deciding is worse because it shows lack of effort and lack of desire. but you need to choose today to be a victum or victor. then run with it and go with it. I hope that you choose to ve a victor. because doing this will prove to be fruitful and your health will be better for it and you'll find others will be more happy to be around you.

above all else choose to smile and know that your attitude is a decision and choosing it and how your respond is vitally important. every action has an reaction. So choose to be a victor and lets move ahead and make a difference.

who do you follow?

We live in a day and age where everyone is looking for someone to follow. But when choosing someone to follow you must be very very careful. Don't just at a flip of a switch choose someone; only to find out later it was not wise for one reason or another. Sad to say some people find out to late and are not able to recover from that decision.

We as Christians obviously have chose to follow Jesus Christ. He is our person we want to follow. But we don't see Him in the flesh and having said that it is obvious that it is difficult someone you can't see. I realize it says in scripture "faith is the substance hoped for..." Hebrews 11 verse 1. So choose a person you can look to that you can follow. Be careful. commit it much prayer and do your due research.

ow do you research? check scripture with what they are saying. make sure it lines up. secondly observe their life. do they reflect what they teach? if something doesn't line up then you reallly should find someone else to follow. it is not an easy task but who you follow reflects on you. because you are what you read and learn. You hang around trash long enough? well you'll eventually smell like trash. I for one don't like to smell trash and hate being around it. I enjoy fresh smelling flowers and fresh smells. they are pleasing and comforting. so I'll tend to try and hang around that. the same is with people if your life smells good and fresh it will draw people. and as you draw people you should ultimately point them to Jesus. not to you. when it bils down you should see Jesus in the person you follow and and the person. it is said back in the day "you are the only Jesus some will ever see." so make sure your life lines up. sure enough your not perfect but as long as people see you are human and not acting like your perfect they will be drawn to you because your being genuine. some may leave you because they find you don't glitch with them for one reason or another but stay on task do do what Jesus would do. Remember that Jesus loves you! and so do I!

who loves you more?

It has occured to me that we often times forget to say I love you. and I do love you all of you my readers. no matter who you are, where you are or what you've done I love you. but a follow up question that my daughter has been known to ask once and a while "who loves you more then I do?"survey says! God!!! yes God loves you more then i do and he doesn't care where you've been or what you've done or where you're from. He loves you so much that he sent His one and only Son Jesus Christ to pay the price. Jesus came and lived like we live and did nothing wrong. however they cruicified him on a cross. he bled and died to pay the price for all and I mean all of our wrong "sin" doings. however he did not stay dead. he rose again 3 days later as he promised he would. you may say "I've done...." it doesn't matter He loves you no matter what. He wants you to come to him with your hurt joy and all you have or even what you don't have. he will bless you mightily. you may ask "how?" well it is simple just pray. you may say "pray?" "Idon't know the words or how" well let be the first to tell you it doesn't matter how or what you say. just ask Jesus to forgive you for all that you've done and ask him to come and live in your heart. scripture says "if you will confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead you shal be saved." it doesn't stipulate any other condition. you may say can I loose my salvation? I say NO!!!! Jesus says he will never leave you nor forsake you. just pray daily in fact always pray that Jesus be your guide. and if by some odd mishap you do something wrong just repent and turn from it. it doesn't matter how often this happens you're human and bound to make mistakes as I do. But God loves! you!! yes you!! scripture says "whosoever calls on the name of the Lord shal be saved" that means anyone anytime and anywhere. i beg of you if you haven't done this do it. don't do it for me do it for yourself. and after you've done it you won't regret it. then find a church and get yourself a Bible and read it daily. that is how you'll get to know Jesus more and more better. feel free to write me if you want more information or need help with any of those things. if you want you can call me as well. I am ready to listen and help the best I can.

man after God's heart

For a while now I've been wondering and questioning how "David" could be called "a man afterGods own heart." I think I have now come to the reason. While indeed he did sin. Who doesn't? He committed adultery, had some killed on purpose and did other things. But I think he was considered to be a man after God's own heart because of the fact that he repented of his sin. Showed true sorrow for his sin and turned from his ways. I think when we sin which we often times do in order to be called the same we need to show true sorrow for out sin and show that we are going to turn from that sin and not repeat it. if we do then repent and be truly sorry for it. one of the things that will help keep us from sin and I am not saying make us perfect because we'll mess up. that is do what the apostle Paul commanded in 2 Corinthians 10. where he says for us to "take very thought captive and make it subject to the obedience of Jesus Christ" this is easier said then done I realize. but David did it and look what is said of him. we as Christians are to often times quick to act or react to situations. we don't think and then often times sin as a result of our action. if we slow down think and listen to the Holy Spirit more often then well things may be different in our lives. God does speak to us today like or simular to how he spoke to the disciples of old. case in point I was living in Omaha and was spending time in prayer and reading my Bible and was really seeking God to heal me of my Neurofibromatosis, blindness and my diabetes and I stopped speaking in prayer, shut off my worship music closed my Bible and heard a voice a clear as one hears another speak to them. say "daniel do you want me to heal you because you want it or are you willing to wait and le me have my plan work in you and move forward that way." I was stunned this hadn't happened to me before and I'll admit I didn't know how quite to respond. I said Lord you know my thoughts I really am not sure. I then went in my apartment and spoke to my Catholic roommate and told him what had just happened. He asked me "how did you respond" I told him I don't know." well to make a long story short I chose to allow the Lord to have his way and wait. while it would be awesome to be healed of all this the Lord has a reason for it all and he will reveal his plan slowly and surely and in his time. taking every thought captive is a challenge and I have failed many times but the more I practice it the more close I start to feel I am getting to the Lord and that is important. I ask you my readers to now keep me in big time prayer for a "job of course" but as of this week I am now heading up a prayer ministery at church. I am going to see that we have myself to start and if others will step up will be praying during both services in the moring. the entire service covered in prayer. got the idea from the book "fresh wind fresh fire" I read this book about 6 years ago. well recently the Lord brought it to my mind. I presented the idea to my pastor and this morning he had be stand before the church and he told of the plan. come to find out this is something he was wanting to see happen. this ministery will be in place to pray during both services and if some one needs prayer during or after then the team will pray with th people. the Lord laid on my heart that many of his people who claim to be called by his name take prayer to lightly. it is indeed our mightiest weapon we have against Satan. it is going to be tough and a huge responsiblity but the Lord will guide direct and see it happen.

prayer

I've been thinking olately. I realze that some of yu reading this are saying "oh know!" "duck and cover!" settle down. I'veen thinking on the issue of prayer. How many of us sometimes take it for granit and some christians don't even take it serious enough.

First of all what is prayer? Well it is simplely talking with our Father in heaven. That's right I said "talking with" not talking to. many churches say it is talking to God. Well when you talk "to" someone you don't expect an answer or reply of any type. you are just talking. Well when we pray we are expecting an answer to our request and needs and issues. When you talk with someone you expect the same thing.

how should one pray? well there isn't any magic formula to prayer. You don't have to say magic words or pray formal. Just simplely be yourself and tell our Lord what is troubling you. Be upfront and honest. He knows the situtation anyway so you won't shock him or surprise him or catch him off guard. But telling him and talking with him like this helps you get it off your chest and you are taking thestp and acknowledging that you need help. that is the first step any resolution. you can pray standing, sitting laying onyour stomach, laying on your back sitting on your knees standing on one foot. however you are most comfortable. you can even pray while driving. one would say you can't because you needs your eyes open to drive. I say where in scripture does it say you have to close your eyes to pray. unstanderabely keeping your eyes closed keeps you from being distracted but that is all it does. you don't even have to bow your head when you pray. we get off to much as christians and to try and formalize how one has to pray. scripture just tells us to pray. it doesn't give a formal formula as to the position that is best.

how should I pray? as I stted before it doesn't matter when Jesus taught his disciples he gave them a model we need to say "our father" that is simplely address the Lord direct your statement like when you are talking with your kids or wife you state their name so they know who is being spoken to. acknowledge where he is this is to remember the our Father is in Heaven and then the rest is pretty basic.

if more of us christians took prayer serious then we would see changes happen. when you tell someone you are going to pray do it. don't just say you will. to many of say" I will be praying for you" and how many of us will admit that we actual follow through. and when you pray do it from the heart. don't just say the words to make yourself look good but mean what you pray and be serious. treat it as if you are talking with "your best friend" afterall Jesus is our best friend and guide. we expect others to respect us us when the talk with us let's get to respecting our Father in heaven when we pray and watch and see what happens. let's get old mr. ugly on the run. stop fighting each other over stupid stuff and unite together in prayer and set the world on fire and watch the Lord work wonders. prayer is easy. but it is a challenge because we do have distractions but always take time out to pray and when you say will pray do it otherwise keep your mouth shut and don't promise something you have no intent on doing at all.

til next time.

anger sin?

Well this past Sunday I was reading Ephesians and as I was reading I thought about anger. I started to think that it is a sin to be angry. But the thought then occured to me that it is not a sin. After all Jesus got angry and drove out the people in the temple that were defiling it. Some would say well he had the right he was Jesus and the Son of God. But it it is different for us. I would ask How? We are to be like Christ so if Christ was permitted to show anger then why not us. Ephesians 4 verses 26-27 tell us "be angry and sin not" "don't let the sun go down on your anger." so it is decided it is alright for a Christian to be angry provided they do not sin in anger. now one will ask if they do is it forgiven? yes it is. How long is one permitted to be angry? not long. Epjhesians says "don't let the sun go down on your anger." so not even 24 hours should go by and we hold our anger. it is destructive and hurts and not to mention makes everyone miserable even the one who holds the anger. in fact the person who did the wrong in the first place has gone on and has forgotten that they did what they did and it is only ruining us if we hold on to the anger. we need to deal with it as quick as possible and put it to rest and allow God to finish what we can't do. and I will say this no one make you angry or sad or anything. you choose those emotions. yes you choose how you feel. while there are circumstances that will encourage us to choose one emotion over another it is our decision in the end and ours alone. So allow yourself to be angry and deal with it. just don't let your anger boil and stay burning up. we are to love one another and treat others with love and respect and do as Christ would. i know it is difficult. but remember life is a challenge and without these challenges we wouldn't grow nd if we don't gorw then life becomes boring and dull. what doesn't kill us makes us stronger in the end. so don't feel regret or sad if you get or have gotten angry it is alright. but be sure to take care of the issue or get help with the issue and then leave it in the past and move forward. and remember it is never to late to say those 2 hard words "i'm sorry." or if someone says those to you "your forgiven" remember to forgive someone for their mistakes and errors in judgment and pray most importantly. until next time May the Lord Bless you and keep you and may his face always shine on you and may he give you his peace.

The Bite

Well as many of you my faithful readers know, I've had an on going journey to get some bottom teeth. Well the journey now has come to an end. I met with an oral surgeon here locally who was willing to do the surgery free for the most part. He was only going to charge for the material and hardware. The teeth were going to be free as well. IWhen I met with him he saw a couple of things on my teeth xray that were a concern. As a result he had me go in for a ct scan. I did this. Then a week later he called me in for an appointment to go over the results. The results were not what I wanted to hear. It is a no go for the teeth. I have to many soft pockets in my mouth. These are probably stemming from my Neurofibromatosis. There is no definete for sure answer to say that they won't grow more. The posts need hard bone to be secure. So now I must endure my life with only upper teeth. Am I able? Of course! I am able to handle this. Do I like it? No!!! But that is life and I will move forward. Were I a man who was money hungry I would find a lawyer and sue Grand Valley Dental for not investigating for fully before removing my few bottom teeth. But I am not a man who is that hungry. And even if I did do that what would it do? If you said "nothing" you are right. So I will move forward. The Lord has a plan in it and will make it known. I just need to trust him and move ahead. I have 2 choices here. I can sit and cry and complain and groan and play the pity me, or I can choose to be a victor and say, "it is done and I have to deal with it and choose to stand up and move ahead. For those of you who know me well you know what I've chosen. For those who don't well I have chosen to move ahead and take life as it comes and see where my road leads. It ay be a bumpy ride still but I will buckle in and enjoy.

Wake Up!!! and Dream!!!

That's right wake up!!!! and dream. you will say "Daniel that is kind of difficult isn't it?" I say a big fat resounding NO!!! Because we all have a dream that is near and ear to us and ours alone. We all have dreams for our family and those dreams we strive to succeed to make happen. But how many of us actually go after our own dream. I say to you that you have a dream burning in your heart that is waiting to come forth and be realized. It is no one eleses dream but yours and yours alone. It is a God given desire and dream. You may say "I have a dream that my kids... or my dream is that we be out of debt." these are awesome dreams but they are not yours actually. Some of you may have a dream to be a writer or singer or maybe even like myself a dream to be a well knwon public speaker. These are your dreams and it is time to wake up and dream. Go after it. You may say how? well simple first write it out in print or braille some way for you to see it in writing. voice it to others. next put the writen statement in anenvelope and ceal it shut and do it before witnesses. This is symbolic way saying it is a done deal. then have another copy that you can look at on a regulary basis. Look at it every day. Next you'll need to state put action behind the words. Some of the things you can do are: talk to others who have achieved in the area you wish to to achieve your dream. watch movies based on your dream. for those of you who have good sight buy or get pictures of your dream. look at those pictures. if you are a totally blind individual no problem get models of your dream. most important don't give up. no matter how bad it gets you will make it. surround yourself with others who will help push you forward. look for opportunities to see your dream. if it is a new car then look at them in the car lot for a blind person who wants a car he or she can purchase models to look at and take a friend to the dealer ship and ride in said car. The car sales person may say "you are a little young to want something like this!" say to him in return "it doesn't take age it takes money!" he will back down right quick. above all else pray and pray and pray over and over about your dream ask the Lord for guidance and tohelp keep your eyes open. we all have dreams in fact scripture says: "Without a dream the people perish." So wake up dream go for it. to to silence all the doubters and shouters and nay sayers and go for it. I believe in you and I know it is possible. Matthew 1 37 says "with God nothing is impossible" and Philipians 4 13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthen me." you already have the strength to go for and achieve your dream. what are you waiting for? for forth and dream! and I will one day see you at the top.

race day

 
Well as many of you know I've been raising funds for nf inc. well yesterday was racing day day. it was the 25k. you can still go to my website and make a donation if you wish. I rode mostly in the stroller you see with the people you see they were my team. it was a great day and except for the rain fun was had by all. I will do it again if i get the opportunity

what others think

Why worry about what others think? I ask you my readers this serious question. Especially those who profess to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Why do we often times get caught in worrying what others: "will say" "will think" "will do" STOP!!! we shouldn't do that. First of all to worry is sin. Scripture says in Philipians 4 that "be anexous for "owrry" about nothing..." So why worry. Worry only causes us to get frustrated upset and not to mention over time will cause a number of health issues. The only thing that should concern us is is: "what will the Lord think about how I am speaking or what I am saying and what will the Lord think about my dress or if I go to this or that. He is and should be our final authority. after all it hs the Lord who'll we have to answer in the end anyway. What others think shouldn't matter squat. it is great to get imput but let the Holy Spirit be your guide and consult God's word then make a decision. others oppinion will change like the weather pending on their mood at the time and a number of influences that may be forcing or seemingly forcing them to react or choose to do xyz. Now you may say "do youpractice this?" I tell you I do and have for a little bit but do sometimes drop the ball. but I think if we live like this we will be happier for the most part may possibely loose some friends but if we loose them they were not really our friend to begin with. because a friend will not chide you for your decision. they don't agree always and shouldn't always agree but if they know that you've prayed over it and are striving to live a life that honors your Lord then they will respect you and who knows maybe by living like this what impact you will have for the cause of Christ. This doesn't mean just say whatever you will. you should always and I mean aaaaalllllllaaaaaaays think before you speak and or act. the Lord gave us 2 ears one mouth so we are to listen twice as much as we speak. like I said imput from family and friends is all good and I am not saying don't seek their imput but don't base your decision on "if i do..." "what will so and so think or say." the mind in us should also be "the mind of Christ" Paul exhorts us this in 2 corinthians. anyway may you all have a blessed day and don't be afraid to step out and do. so what if you step on a toe or two. toes will heal and you will survive so be bold be strong and be courageous but above all do it with Love and prayer and with the Lord's guidance.

The Call!

I am calling any of my friends and or family for help. As many of you know I am doing the River Bank Run this year. I am doing it to raise money to find a cure for Neurofibromatosis. I do have this and it has been an interesting life with it but not disabling. I have chosen to be a victor. anyway it is a 25k race. I am not running but walking and will be riding in a cart for some of it. but am asking for help with raising funds. if you can or know someone who can please visit my fund raising page and help. Any amount is appreciated. whether it be $1.00 or $1,000. every little bit helps and it is for a good cause. I know I've posted about before but so far I have raise $660. it is amazing. please!!! help!!! if you can if you can't I understand but appreciate you passing this on if you can. if you can't then please pray.
go to: http://www.firstgiving.com/danielstrube
there you'll see a picture of me both before andn after my surgeries that I've had.

Who! Am! I!

Who am I? I ama saint that once and a while sins. You heard me right. I did not say that I am a sinner. God sees me as a saint and one without sin. because he looks at me through His son Jesus. I know you will say I am not a saint. I am just a sinner saved by grace. I say that is good to recognize that you have been saved by grace. that may be true. however if you are in Christ you are a new creature. The old things have past away and all has become new. In fact the apostle Paul refered to those who are believers as saints. see any of his epistles and they were addressed to the saints. he isn't the only one. Luke throughout Acts refered to the Christians as "saints" as he was writing about Paul's journeys he stated, "paul visited the saints" now when I say that I am a saint I am not saying that I am perfect. I am a saint that once and a while sins. I am thankful that I am new in Christ and know this for sure that he Loves me and you and he wants us to live a life that pleases him. He does forgive us when we mess up and fall and picks us up and brushes the junk off and says "lets move on" It doesn't matter what we have or will do. in fact if you are reading this first time and don't know Him it is simple. he will forgive you to for any and all things you've ever done. all you need to do is simple. 1 admit you need him that you are a sinner. 2 believe that Jesus died on the cross, was buried and rose again. 3 confess this and ask him to come in your heart. then find yourself a Bible and a good church and learn more about him. He won't turn you away on any count. the only time it is to late to make this decision is when you've died. so don't delay make the decision and let's move forward. if you want someone to talk to about it let me know I am willing. but God is always there anytime day or night and there is no specific way you have to pray just pray what is on your heart knowing the fact he hears you and is listening and will help. I don't know why for years we've taught we are just sinners saved by grace when the Bible is clear that we are saints. I've been told it is so we can identify with those who don't know him. well we are to be set apart different so why identify or say we are just like someone who doesn't know Christ. we are children of the King! let's act like it and bring others into the family!

victum or victor

We have many choices in life. Aside from choosing whether or not to accept Christ as ones savior there is two choices that one has to make. These are very important and will make a difference in how life goes. You need to choose to be either a victum or a victor. either one you choose is your choice and no one can force you to do he other. A victum says "I can't and it is not possible" and "pity me everyone is against me and I'll never make it" a victor says: "I can! it is possible! I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!" A victor says it is possible no matter how bad it gets because he or she knows that one way or another they'll make it. if they fall they get up up and brush off and move forward. a victum falls and stays down and cries. I know life is a challenge Christ told us it wuold be so. Your attitude is your decision no one can make you angry or upset or happy. you choose your attitude. it is alright to cry and be upset. allow yourself the experience of the emotion then choose what you are going to do. a victum would stay depressed and refuse to change a victor will allow a cry then say let's move forward. a victor knows tat some things are not possible because lack of ability but they allow themself to experience and try to see if they have said ability and if not then they find a way to get it done by some means. a victum doesn't even try they just say "no" and refuse to step out. So I ask you today! are you going to choose to be a victum or a victor! I choose to be a victor and choose to be an eagle and soar to new heights. Hoping someone will join me in the experience.

christian essentials concluded (food prayer)

I am sorry for not post the final segment but here it is.


Another essential for christians is food. Now you may say food? Yes food! As physical food is needed for the body for it to function properly so also is spiritual food. There are 2 kinds of food. Angel food! and Devils food. How do you know the difference? you get real familar with the cook boook. The Bible. It will give you real hardcore angel food. devil food is anything contray to angel food. let me tell you a teller at a bank knows a fake dollar from the real one. How? because they study the real stuff so often and long and hard and fast that when the fake comes they know it with a snap of a finger. The last essential is not last because of last importance it is actually very important. Prayer! prayer is simplely put communicating with God. as you communicate with your friends family or co-workers so you communicate with God. There is no style or specific way to speak. just say what you feel and what is on your heart. no position is required. you can stand, sit hit your knees or anything. It is vital because even though God knows all and sees all he wants us to know and tell him what we feel that way he can help us make the change you need.

christian essentials "fellowship

here is the next part sorry it has taken a while. Fellow toastmasters another key to christianity is: fellowship. I spell fellowship "church" you will probably say tome church isn't perfect of course it isn't because it is filled with people like you and me. We are commanded in the Bible to not forsake to assemble with other believers. It is when we do this we grow. We get encouraged and it is a safe place to get a kick in the pants to get us moving where we should be. it is outside of the church that we are not encouraged to serve and worship our Lord and it is outside the gathering that we often get knocked down. so when we fellowship we can bet our batteries recharged and get moving again. Now when I speak of church i am not necessarily speaking of a building like we meet in here for toastmasters. it is good. however but you can fellow with other believers anytime and anywhere. it doesn't have be for one our or 2 and it doesn't have to be a large group. we are told in scripture that "whereever two or three are gathered in my name I am there" so let's get getting together to encourage love and motivate one another. yes I know sometimes whate we hear hurts but it is better to get the truth on how we should be from a fellow believer then a nonbeliever who'll just say what they think we want to hear.....

stayed tuned for the next. part coming soon.

qchristian essentials part 2 "faith"

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen according to the bible. now many of you toastmasters and guests who came in tonight had a lot of faith. you may say Daniel how? I say because you sat down in the chair. you didn't examine it research the make and question ther maker of it you ust sat done believing that it would support you and it did. Faith is much the same thing it is a belief that Lord will do what he says he will do. you may say "daniel it is easy for you your blind" I say no. it is more difficult when you can't see physically what is about to happen. but one has faith the the person he or she is with isn't going to cause problems. it doesn't take a lot of faith for a christian to survive. it takes about the size uf a mustard seed. that is small and that is all that is required. I don't buy into this "it didn't hapen because you didn't have enough faith" it is going to happen if the Lord wants it to happen. Now onto the next essential....

stay tuned for the next part. food. again a reminder this taken fro m a speech i've done for toastmasters

christian essentials

This is going to be broken down into four or five parts. This froma speech I did for Toastmasters a while by this title.
There are many things in a christian that one possibely will call essential. However in my oppinion it boils down to 4 main points. These are essential and vital to EVERY!!! christians walk and life. Without these 4 coponents nothing else is possible. So I am taking you my friends to "christian boot camp" here you will learn these essentials and hopefully be able to move forward. These essentials are:
1. faith
2. fellowship
3. food
4. prayer.
while i know they seem very basic and one doesn't think of them as essential but they are.

stay tuned bloggers part 2 will deal with faith and what I said in the speech.

finding beauty

We often seem to over look beauty in many things. We often think of beauty in flowers or the way a person looks. Beauty can be found in many forms and styles. Like the way a person smiles or they way they say something. Also in the way something is writen. But often we refuse to look at those people who on the outside appear shabby and ugly. But their inner beauty is awesome. It is these types of people that often surprise us. We should look for beauty in all things. After all the Lord created all things and Solomn even said He makes all things beautiful in his time. So the next time you see something unordinary or unusual before you pass judgment on it and call it ugly. Think and see or dig deeper for the inner beauty tat may be waiting to be tapped. You never know. Yes beauty is something simple and coyuld be "hello" that may be beautiful to someone to hear because they probably don't get to many people even giving them the time of day. Beauty isnt the same for everyone I realize that but all things are beautiful and it is not right for anyone to criticize anyone for calling something beautiful. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder remember that but always remember all is beautiful and thank God for the beauty.

victum or victor

Many of us face different decisions throughout our days. Some of these decisions are easy and some difficult. Some we may not see results from for a long time. But the bottom line is you can choose "to be a victum" or "b a victor" it is your choice and only you can make that decision. choosing to be a victor means stepping up and doing what needs to be done. a victor sees each difficulty as a chance to grow and become stronger. a victum sees each difficulty and a means of persecution and attack and the victum runs and tries to hide their face from the challenge. a victor says "I can do it and if I can't I can find a way to get it done" a victum ays "why is everyone picking on me... I cant' I can't it is to difficult. get someone else and leave me alone" now is every obstacle easy no is the victor always full of smiles "no" but he is continually looking for ways to move forward and learn from each challenge. the victum looks to hide and stay stuck on stupid. yu can say "pity poor me i'll never get through it" or you can say "let's go with the Lord's help one way or another we will get through it." i've always said what doesn't kill one makes one stronger. attitude is a decision no akes you"angry sad or happy" yo choose how ou'll respond and the way you respond wil have a impact on the outcome.

raising funds

I wanted to come in here and let everyone know of a fund raiser that I am involved with. As many of you my faithful readers know I have Neurofibromatosis "nf" well I have been asked to participate in a fun run walk this year. it is the River Bank Run/walk. it is a long race but well worht it. I am raising funds for nf to find a cure. you can donae to my cause by visiting my website at: http://www.firstgiving.com/danielstrube. any amount is appreciated. will keep everyone posted as to how I do. it is May 9, 2009. thanks in advance.

prayers

I wasjust thinking about prayer. it is a weapon that is mighty. but it is one that we as christians sometimes misues or use selfishly and sometimes don't use enough. grab a cup of coffee this going to be a bit long probably. One thing i've noticed with christians today and I have been guilty of this myself: is that we tell a person "I'll pray for you about...." then how often do we actually follow through. we stay with it until we see results or do we not do it. just say we will because we feel obligated. that to me is insulting promising to pray and not following through. but with our own personal prayer life when we pra what is our motive. are motivated by desire to see the Lord's will or do we ant our own selfish desire. i'll admit sometimes I pray selfishly but the Lord knows my heart. I think though the best answers to prayer are those "unanswered" we should always be praying and stick with it until we see results of some sort or another. let me step back a moment and define prayer: prayer is simplely "talking with our Father" yes I said "with" not "to" but "with" we are talking with our father and in doing so need to show the respect he deserves and when we pray mean what we pray and not just pray because we feel obligated. and when the Lord brings someone to mind out of the blue during the day. pray for them you never know what they are going through at that moment it may be needed. i've found this true. in fact when speaking with a friend of mine a while back she was telling me how she got through a situation that didn't seem like she would. I asked about what time and she told me "x" time and i was caused to remember that was about the time I was paying for that person. prayer works. it may seem like it doesn't sometimes and it seems like we pray forevetr for something before we get the answer or wake up and see the answer but God does answer in "His time!" not ours. so be quick to pray it is powerful but be careful not to promise to pray for someone about something unless you intend fully to follow through. we should always pray Paul tells us "pray without ceasing" this means always keep the lines of communication open and be ready to listen. you may or may not like the answer but accept it and move forward and let the Lord work.

ruthann part 2

Well let's continue. I left with Andi and headed back to her apartment. before that we told Jennifer we'd be back in the morning. on the way home stopped through the drive through for burger king. when we arrived at the appartment we told Sam Andi's husband about the day. i went to the back bed room. I think i was a sleep before my head even hit the pillow. The next day was spent at the hospital. I went to the nursery to see Ruthann and as I was bending over the crib she bopped me in the nose. it was as if she was saying ok dad pick me up already. so I did. we then brought her to mom "jennifer" during that day we had a few visitors come into see us. then that night I returned back to the apartment with andi. Sunday morning woke up and headed with sam and andi for church. I went before the church and anounced about Ruthann's birth. On the way to the hospitalafter church Jennifer called me on the cell phone and said Ruthann had a case of Jondis. I hope i spelled that correct. I hung up and paniced. Was assured by andi and the person giving us a ride not to worry. it is common. but i still was concerned. after all i was a new dad. anyway spent the day at the hospital and this time stayed the night. spent most of monday there and head back to the apartment to make sure all was ready for Ruthann's arrival home. while there I opend a tun of gifts. you see what I didn't mention was Saturday was supposed to be a baby shower at the church for Jennifer and at my work they were going to have a shower ofsorts. both of course didn't happen. Now what i didn't mention. Before Ruthann was born I wasn't sure if I wanted to be in the room during her delivery. but after a lot of thinking and talking with Sam i chose to. I in fact was even going to cut the cord. but that didn't happen due to the fact we had Ruthann via c-section. Now she is 7 years old and has grown to know the Lord as her savior and is awesome. that's my story and i'm sticking to it.

ruthann

As many of you know today is Ruthann's birthday. she is now 7 years old today. But I am sure tht not al of youare knowedgeable about the story of her birth. well here it goes: It was April of 2001 when I got the news that my wife was pregnant. I was both excited and scared as to what was going to happen. I remember when i got the news we were talking with someone aboutgetting a voucher for low income housing. Jennifer "now x" said she had taken a home check test. we soon after went and saw the doctor to know for sure. Well the doctor confirmed it. the next several months were spent getting ready. many appointments and searching for an apartment. June of that year we got news from a friend of Jennifer's mom that her mom was in the hospital and not expected to survive. Jennifer then took a bus trip to see her mom. I stayed behind and worked. Well Jennifer came back and not long after that we got the phone call that he mom had passed on. she died from bone cancer. We went to the funerial. got back and a few months got an apartment. now you have the back ground now for the day of er birth. I woke up at 4:30 in the morning as usual. got ready for work. this was going to be my last day was going to take time off for leave for Ruthann's birth. I arrived t work and on the way in my friend and I were talking and he joked and said she might be born today! I stated no way she wasn't due for about another week. Got in and grabed a coffee and snack from the lunch room. I then called Jennifer to tell her i arrived safe. this wa normal. Sh advised she would probably need to change the sheets. my first thought was "why were you sick?" she said no I think my water broke. she said to call her back in about 10 minutes. I went to my preshift meeting and my supervisor told me i wouldn't be staying. I said we don't know she said she had had 3 kids and knows. well we had the meeting. I went and made the call. came back told my supervisor i was leaving. threw my shoes in my back pack threw on my boots. a co-worker came and offered me a ride. I stuttered and said i had a ride. another supervisor laughed and said not nervous are we? i stuttered and said no. we arrived at the hospital at about7:30 in the morning and sure enough things were on target. she was about 2 or 3 centimeters dialeted. well the hours wore on and on. finally the time came. Andi "jennifer's adopted sister" and i staqrted the encouraging her to push. this was around 8:30 or so in the evening. Well they decided they would have to do a c section. I was tossed scrubs and got hurriedly in them and Andi and I raced to follow. at 9:04 that evening Ruthann was born. she was 8 pounds 6.4 ounces and 20 and a quarter inches long and her head was 14 and 3 quarter inches. while in the nursery my sugar started to drop and i got help. anyway more to come at another time this already gettng long. stay tuned for a part 2.

just reach out

I was thinking today. I know some of you are saying "o o" "that's dangerous" I know but got to do it. anyway I was thinking of the song by Petra "just reach out" at least tht is what I think it is called. the corus says" just reach and he'll reach in, doesn't matter who you are or where you've been just reach out and he'll reach in" it is a pwerful song. that is all we need to do is reach to our Lord and he'll reach in clean us up and make a new. we are already a new creature when we accept im as savior. No longer sinners but saints. we are now saints that once and a while. this is scriptureal. every letter Paul wrote was to the "saints" in acts we see he went and saw the "saints" but we need to reach out and ask our father to help us. it is kind of like when we fall and injur our knee. when we were kids. we would reach to our mom or dad and they would reach to us cleanse the wound and help it to heal. the same is with our Lord. many of us may have baggage we are carrying that is tareing us up but let go reach and He'll reach in cleanse and help us move on. but we shouldn't stop there should reach out to others who need our help no matter who they are. they may smell bad or dress shabby or are worthless according to the standards of society. but they are priceless to our Lord and should be to us as well. it amazes me what the Lord does when he cleans up someone who is so far gone. the transformation is amazing. can be in our lives if we are willing to step out and get the party started. anyway this is already long I could go on for a lot longer but I think I will let you ponder what i have said here. May the Lord richly bless each and everyone of you my friends and family and those who are just passing by to read. I'm not perfect and am be cleaned up but will shine brighter with each stroke of the cleansing power of our Lord.

the bite is on

Well as many of you my faithful blog readers know I've been trying to get bottom teeth. Well this past January 14, 2009 I got some answers. Mom, Ruthann and I took a trip to the University of Michigan Dental hospital. We left a bit later then planned but still got there fine. saw about 8 or 9 slide offs on the way but we stayed safe. I was to have 2 appointments that morning. The first was to be with the dentist and the second with the oral surgeon. We arrived late for the first and were on ime for the second. But good thing was I still saw both. At 11:13 a.m I was called back to the dental chair. There I sat and sat and sat. I start to think I was forgotten. So I purposefully whistled hummed and made some noise. No one said anything. I did hear someone come in at one point but they left as quick as they came in. Finally after about a hour and a half the dentist or I should say his assistant came in for the dental check. He stated that they've been busy. He did his check. then leaves. comes back and tells me the oral surgeon will be in about 8 minutes. Sure enough he was. The bottom line is what is going to happen is this: they are going to put in for posts in my mouth. then when they're healed I go back in for the full bottom teeth. When? I don't know I have to see a couple first. I am waiting to hear from scheduling hopefully we'll be able to do those two appointments on the same day. Through it all Ruthann was awesome. She was quiet for the most part on the way down and was quiet on the way home. We kept her with us because she had only half day of school that day so no sense sending her. Stay tuned the saga continues.

bell ringing friends

the picture of me at the table is me of course and a couple of my bell ringing comrads the gentle men is Jack. he was a riot and always picked on me but i picked back. the lady is Birdeen we called her bird. she was pretty. the other two ladies at a table were my boss Major Joy and the younger of the two was I think Lisa but not 100% certain but pretty sure.

welcome 2009

As we start the new I hope that it is filled with blessings of all sorts for one and all. As I look back on 2008 I find I was truly blessed in many ways. For one I actually did have a job. Even thoughtempoary it was still a job. I was given blessings during this job to see more details read the posting "Come on Ring those bells" This year promises to be filled with blessings. It is because the Lord has given us a new year and he promises to bless us. They may be big and they may be small but a blessing is a blessing no matter how small. I am blessed with many friends and blessed with a family who loves me and supports and prays for me and I them. I am still looking for a job but I know that the Lord has a plan for me I just need to wait on him. I am not worried what the year will bring for I know it will bring nothing less then what the Lord will allow. I do plan on posting more often this year so stayed tuned. As to the pictures from my bell ringing job just wait it is still in the working. Not going to promise when of if but stayed tuned you never know. This year to ring in the new year I got to spend it with my good friend Jason. He is living with a couple from his church. Jason and I went to school togather. he is awesome and this couple is as well. we played cards and ate and had fun. it was a blast. I want to wishthe Lord's blessings on all who are reading this my blog and send one and all a warm hug and smile. let's make 2009 amazing and win souls for the Lord!!!

Come On Ring Them Bells........

Well many of you know that I have gotten a job. This was ringing bells for the Salvation Army. It went well. Sorry that iI haven't been in earlier then this to [post about it. But the job was tiring but rewarding at the same. I was blessed on a number of occations. For starters they usually moved us to a different spot everytime we went out. This was good but a challenge. After a while though the last 2 weeks or there abouts we convinced them to keep me in the same place. I rang at the Family Fair near our house. I had 2 half hour breaks and 2 15 minute breaks. Half hour 1 was my lunch and the second half hour was my dinner break. Two 15 minute breaks for relaxing and such. I was able to use the break room at the store that I was at. Was brought out coffee several times during the time I was ringing. We could drink coffee while rining but no eating. Back to the blessings I personally received. Twice I was bought dinner. It was a blessing and one that I didn't look or ask for. The first time it happened I was about to o on dinner break when a young lady, I assume worked for Family Fair, asked if I was given a dinner break. I advised that I was about to gon on my dinner break. She asked if "we" could buy you dinner. I said "sure!" she got me a 2 cheese burger combo with a diet coke. She did this a second time about a week later. One other time someone asked if I'd like to have a sub for lunch. I said sure. They then brought out a sub and chips and a soda pop. Oh I forgot one or two other blessings. Someone astated that she had bought an extra bottle of flavored water and asked if I'd like to have it. I said sure. Then later that night a young lady stated she had gotten something for me. I surprised said for me? she said yes. It was m&m's my favorite kind the plain variety. Twice I wwas given a money blessing. not to accept this but had no choice the first time a gentle men put some money in my kettle then stated that he put a "bill" in my lunch bucket for me and not for the Salvation Army. Then left before I had the chance to say anything. When I retrieved said bill it was $10. Then on my last day working I was given a $20. from a lady that knew me from church. I haven't seen her in a long time. she said it was a Christmas gift and for to bless me for being faithful. Again this was all done before I had much a chnace to say anything. Now the way we did our routine was we reported to the Salvation Army signed in got our bell apron and name tag and stick and kettle. Then waited to be sent out. They would have a drawing for a $10 gift card and then pray with us. They Then would tell us who was going on what van. We boarded and were off. The driver then would fill out a slip withour name location date and start time. put said slip in the kettle and be off. The same was done when they came for the kettle. the only difference was our end time. in the beginning I would board the van and return to the Salvation Army to be picked up by my dad. But he was told he could pick me up from my location. so that is what we did. I had to stay put until they got the kettle though. All in all it was rewarding and enjoyable. Was paid $7.40 an hour and averaged 27-30 hours a week. We had a cou[ple of dinners that they provided. One for Thanksgiving and one for Christmas. Our last day they provided us witha hot breakfast. This was good. Now one might ask if I'll do it again? Well if I don't have a full time job next year then sure. Mom did take some pictures which we'll try and get posted soon. I was inside for all my times I was sent out and for that was thankful. well kind of inside was in the area between the outside and inside doors. so did have some cold but not as bad as some of the ones who had to stay outside. I did meet some interesting people who rang with me and some not so interesting. Also while ringing the bell saw people I've not seen in a long time. So all in all it was all good and and am glad I did it.

who is my neighbor?

I was thinking today. I know dangerous but really I was thinking. For many years the Lord has been prompting me to be an evangelist. teaching his word. but I have no idea as to how I can get started. have spoken with my pastor and he is looking for ways and we are kind of waiting for confirmation from the church concerning the matter. but that wasn't the only thing I was thinking about. The passage in Luke 10. about the good samartian. Who is my neighbor? our neighbor is anyone we meet anywhere. and we should all take time to help someone if we have the means to do so. is it always going to be convenient to ehlp. no. but since when is Christianity convenient. sometimes when we go out of our way and go the extra mile it will speak louder then anything we could ever think of. we often think a few things do I really have the time? is it convenient? what will other people think? while question one is alright it shouldn't be a stopper. many times we are to busy to do something for others that probably will only take a few minutes. we live in a me oriented world and it is time for us as believers in Jesus to stop thinking of me and think of others. christianity is not convenient if it were then all would do it. it wasn't convenient for Christ to die like he did but it was neccessary. he could have done it more flare and could have made a big deal but chose to do the inconvenient so that w may be made right with him.

good news

Well I have some good news and some kind of sad news. first the sad news so you have something to look forward to. as many of you my readers know I've mentioned a special young lady that was in my life that I felt was awesome and thins were going well. Well she has dropped out of my life for some odd reason. Have no idea why but haven't heard from her in 2 weeks and she hasn't returned my phone calls. so back to the field I go searching for a special lady. on to the good news. I have job now. grant it it is tempoary but it is a job none the less. I am going to be a bell ringer for the Salvation Army. I got the lttter Thursday saying for me to report for orientation on Tuesday morning. Other then that not much happening here. I am also waiting to get the final word concerning my hearing aid. we are waiting for the State to give the hi sign. As to my teeth? well I go in December 3, for another appointment at the University of Michigan dental place and hope they'll be able to do something.

a bite of can you hear me

Well as many you my awesome readers know I have been trying to get my hearing better and my teeth worked on. Well it is coming down to the finish. I go in to see the specialist that my dentist wants to have me see on Tuesday at 9:30 in the morning. this should be fun! as to my hearing I spoke with the folks at the hearing place and they've got the aproval from the state to order the device and the final aproval will come when they hear from my ent. so keep your fingers crossed. other then that not much going on here in Michigan. still looking for that ellusive job but am getting closer it seems. I hope t

sleep time

Well recently I went to have a sleep study. This was done due to the fact have been having big time trouble sleeping at night. Also because of falling asleep at times when I really should be. The study went alright. Don't have the results yet hope to soon. They did two studies actually. A night time one and one during the day. The night time study was a split study. part of it ws sleeping on my side and the other was on my back. the daytime was a bit more tedious and irritating. I took about 4 naps each being 20 minutes. I would just have fallen a sleep and then being told to wake up. But they did feed me lunch and breakfast so that was all good for sure. On anonther note job update. I have a possible job with a company called "Candy Blossom" I would be putting baskets together. don't know much more then that other then it would be $7.50 an hour. just got wind of it today from my Counselor with the Commission for the Blind. so continue to pray. Other then that not much else to tell about. I will be competing this week ina Table Topic contest for Toastmasters on Thursday. And as to any special ladies in my life? well I do have a very special lady in my life and she is awesome. we've been spending time praying together nightly and chatting both online and on the phone. right now we are just getting to know each other and I am loving it. But will keep you all updated as thing progress. I guess I've rambled on long enough for the moment. till next posting God bless and all the best and keeping reading and feel free to comment anytime. Love you all.

hanging on

not sure if I posted this befor, but it is a good reminder nontheless. it is something I received in my email and I wanted to share it here. it is awesome. read on for the story
Hanging On  

A cheerful girl with bouncy golden curls was almost five. Waiting with her mother at the checkout stand, she saw them: a circle of glistening white pearls
in a pink foil box. 

"Oh please, Mommy. Can I have them? Please, Mommy, please!" 

Quickly the mother checked the back of the little foil box and then looked back into the pleading blue eyes of her little girl's upturned face. 

"A dollar ninety-five. That's almost $2.00. If you really want them, I'll think of some extra chores for you and in no time you can save enough money to
buy them for yourself. Your birthday's only a week away and you might get another crisp dollar bill from Grandma." 

As soon as Jenny got home, she emptied her penny bank and counted out 17 pennies. After dinner, she did more than her share of chores and she went to the
neighbor and asked Mrs. McJames if she could pick dandelions for ten cents. On her birthday, Grandma did give her another new dollar bill and at last she
had enough money to buy the necklace. 

Jenny loved her pearls. They made her feel dressed up and grown up. She wore them everywhere--Sunday school, kindergarten, even to bed. The only time she
took them off was when she went swimming or had a bubble bath. Mother said if they got wet, they might turn her neck green. 

Jenny had a very loving daddy and every night when she was ready for bed, he would stop whatever he was doing and come upstairs to read her a story. 

One night when he finished the story, he asked Jenny, "Do you love me?" 

"Oh yes, Daddy. You know that I love you." 

"Then give me your pearls." 

"Oh, Daddy, not my pearls. But you can have Princess--the white horse from my collection. The one with the pink tail. Remember, Daddy? The one you gave
me. She's my favorite." 

"That's okay, Honey. Daddy loves you. Good night." 

And he brushed her cheek with a kiss. 

About a week later, after the story time, Jenny's daddy asked again, 

"Do you love me?" 

"Daddy, you know I love you." 

"Then give me your pearls." 

"Oh Daddy, not my pearls. But you can have my babydoll. 

The brand new one I got for my birthday. She is so beautiful and you can have the yellow blanket that matches her sleeper." 

"That's okay. Sleep well. God bless you, little one. Daddy loves you." 

And as always, he brushed her cheek with a gentle kiss. 

A few nights later when her daddy came in, Jenny was sitting on her bed with her legs crossed Indian-style. As he came close, he noticed her chin was trembling
and one silent tear rolled down her cheek. 

"What is it, Jenny? What's the matter?" 

Jenny didn't say anything but lifted her little hand up to her daddy. 

And when she opened it, there was her little pearl necklace. With a little quiver, she finally said, "Here, Daddy. It's for you." 

With tears gathering in his own eyes, Jenny's kind daddy reached out with one hand to take the dime-store necklace, and with the other hand he reached into
his pocket and pulled out a blue velvet case with a strand of genuine pearls and gave them to Jenny. He had had them all the time. He was just waiting
for her to give up the dime-store stuff so he could give her genuine treasure. 

So like our heavenly Father. 

What are you hanging on to? 

routines for school mornings

WellAs you all know school year has begun. Ruthann is now in 1st grade and seems to be enjoying being in school all day. A routine that we started last year has continued this year. It will continue for as long as we can make it happen. Let me back up a little those of you who have been regular readers of my blog know that Ruthann has accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and savior last Augsut of 2007. Well last school we started the routine of praying before she leaves the house for school. Sometimes I slip up and we do it at the bust stop. Those times I ask her "Ruthan what did we forget to do this morning?" she'll say "pray!" that is right we pray every morning before heading out the door for school. I let her pray first and then I pray for her and with her. It is awesome. I don't know why I decided on this routine or where the idea came from. The only thing I can say it had to be from the Lord. It is awesome because she is learning how to pray and learning that she can pray to God about anything. We pray before bed as well right after our story. Usually a Bible story but sometimes we'll do a story about Curious George. She is growing up and becoming so amazing with many things. She knows that I am blind and sometimes forgets but is getting better at remembering. Anyway God bless one and all and until you visit again. Take care and feel free to comment always.

ramblings

Wellit has been about aweek or so since I last posted something here. I figured I should come in and let everyone know that I a still alive. As far as the job search goes it is still in progress. Have had a couple of interviews but nothing has happened as of yet. Ruthann seems to be doing alright in school. just wondering if we can ever get her to eat her entire lunch. she has once but usually she hasn't I gather she is just not used to the concept and with time she will grow accustom to it. I have many memories of different events in my life and some good some bad and some somewhere in between. but I would have to say that I have learned something from each of them. Many of you have been praying for my friend Harvey. he seems to being alright. he is in a wheel chair and is talking some. Don't really know much of the latest other then he is doing well and better then many expected. Well I will post more specific about some of my memories later until then God bless and keep reading and commenting. Hey pray for me concerning a special lady in my life. She is totally awesome and a God sent. we chat pretty regularly on yahoo and on the phone. Stay tuned and I just might post more details. For some of you who wonder if we've heard from Ruthann's mom "Jennifer" no we have not. not since sheleft in 2004.

the football game

here is something I got in my email that I found interesting and pretty awesome. Favorite Stories: The Football Game 

Favorite Stories:
The Football Game 

There was a skinny young boy who loved football with all his heart. Practice after practice, he eagerly gave everything he had. But being half the size
of the boys, he got absolutely nowhere. At all the games this hopeful athlete sat on the bench and hardly ever played. 

This teenager lived alone with his father, and the two of them had a very special relationship. Even though the son was always on the bench, his father
was always in the stands cheering. He never missed a game.  

This young man was still the smallest of the class when he entered high school. But his father continued to encourage him but also made it very clear that
he did not have to play football if he didn't want to. But the young man loved football and decided to hang in there.  

He was determined to try his best at every practice, and perhaps he'd get to play when he became a senior. All through high school he never missed a practice
nor a game but remained a bench-warmer all four years. His faithful father was always in the stands, always with words of encouragement for him.  

When the young man went to college, he decided to try out for the football team as a "walk-on." Everyone was sure he could never make the cut, but he did.
The coach admitted that he kept him on the roster because he always puts his heart and soul into every practice, and at the same time, provided the other
members with the spirit and hustle they badly needed. 

The news that he had survived the cut thrilled him so much that he rushed to the nearest phone and called his father. His father shared his excitement and
was sent season tickets for all the college games. 

This persistent young athlete never missed practice during his four years at college, but he never got to play in a game. It was the end of his senior football
season, and as he trotted onto the practice field shortly before the big playoff game, the coach met him with a telegram. The young man read the telegram
and he became deathly silent. Swallowing hard, he mumbled to the coach, "My father died this morning. Is it all right if I miss practice today?" The coach
put his arm gently around his shoulder and said, "Take the rest of the week off, son. And don't even plan to come back to the game on Saturday." 

Saturday arrived, and the game was not going well. In the third quarter, when the team was ten points behind, a silent young man quietly slipped into the
empty locker room and put on his football gear. As he ran onto the sidelines, the coach and his players were astounded to see their faithful teammate back
so soon. 

"Coach, please let me play. I've just got to play today," said the young man. The coach pretended not to hear him. There was no way he wanted his worst
player in this close playoff game. But the young man persisted, and finally feeling sorry for the kid, the coach gave in. 

"All right," he said. "You can go in." 

Before long, the coach, the players and everyone in the stands could not believe their eyes. This little unknown, who had never played before was doing
everything right. The opposing team could not stop him. He ran, blocked, and tackled like a star. His team began to triumph. The score was soon tied. In
the closing seconds of the game, this kid caught a pass and ran all the way for the winning touchdown. The fans broke loose. His teammates hoisted him
onto their shoulders. Such cheering you never heard.  

Finally, after the stands had emptied and the team had showered and left the locker room, the coach noticed that this young man was sitting quietly in the
corner all alone. The coach came to him and said, " Kid, I can't believe it. You were fantastic! Tell me what got into you? How did you do it? 

He looked at the coach, with tears in his eyes, and said, "Well, you knew my Dad died, but did you know that my Dad was blind?" 

The young man swallowed hard and forced a smile, "Dad came to all my games, but today was the first time he could see me play, and I wanted to show him
I could do it!" 

Like the athlete's father, GOD is always there cheering for us. He's always reminding us to go on. He's even offering us His hand for He knows what is best,
and is willing to give us what we need and not simply what we want. God has never missed a single game. What a joy to know that life is meaningful if lived
for the Highest. Live for Him for He's watching us in the game of life. Amen. 

the adventure

Well as many of you my readers know I have been doing the job search thing and having some dental work. well the job search still continues. I did take a test 3 of them in fact for a position with price line. did well on 2 of them but will be retaking the third one. it is looking up information using tables and charts and such. as to the dental. well it is on going saga. they are refering me to a specialist at the University of Michigan hospital. because I am so unique it is beyond their ability. on a funner note. a couple of weeks or so ago we took Ruthann to Michigan Adventure. She had a blast. this was her first time going to an amusement park. not her first ride because they had a small fair here around the 4th of July. she had a blast. she had won the tickets from radio Disney. back in May. mom and I and dad and Ruthann all went. I and mom even went on the new ride they have called Thunder Hawk. it was Sweet!!!! mom braved it and all while she was saying "oh no!" I was yelling "alright!!!!" fun was had by all. maybe next year we will take Ruthann to Cedar Point and experience a bigger amusement park! anyway hope all are doing well and staying out of trouble.

job update

Well as many of you know I have been searching for a long time for a job. And as many of you know I have had a couple of supposed job chances but they've not panned out. but please pray as this continues to be frustrating. On Tuesday July 15, 2008 I am going in for a test for a job with Price Line. it is a 3 hour test. if I am hired I would start training on August 4. will keep you all updated as to the results. hopefully this works out. if I am hired I will be starting at 10.50 an hour which isn't to bad. so keep me in prayer and ask anyone else you know to please pray and have them ask anyone to pray. I can use all the prayers that I can get. love you all and keep smiling!!!!!!

gum fun

Well I need to ask everyone to please pray for me. Yesterday I went in to see the dentist to have 4 teeth removed. this is in preparation of getting some false teeth. just my bottom teeth were removed. still have all my top ones. the appointment was supposed to be at 2:45 but I didn't get in until about quarter to 4 and the torture didn't start until about 4. and 45 minutes later with gause in mouth left the office. now the boring eating takes place. soft food. oh boy!! the exciting part of the day was however we got a couple of passes good for 4 people to see kong fue panda. for Wednesday night at 7. the way this happened was I had entered Ruthann to win tickets to Michigan Adventure. she won!!! when we picked up the tickets they asked if we wanted the movie tickets as well. we of course took them. so tonight it will be off to the movies. and in 4 weeks I go in for my new teeth. it should be all good. by the way he also had to trim some of my gum. anyway will keep you all posted.

hospital adventure

Well I am back with yet another posting. This one is serious but interesting at the same tie. As many of you know I am diabetic. Well this past Saturday, May 31, 2008, I took a trip to the emergency room at Spectrum Butterworth hospital. I was feel light headed and was short of breath. felt like my sugar was quite high. I called 911. they arrived and check my sugar and sure enough it was (480) which is a bit to high! off to the emergencry room I go. while they did manthought you had to be pregnant to have one of those done. anyway it took eternity (13) hours for them to transfer me to a regular room. then my night nurse never got me my sleeping pill I requested. so I got no sleep. she told me she came in and thought I was a sleep because I was quiet. she then went on break and forgot about mme. by the time she remembered the pill it was to late. I then me with the doctor about 9 or there abouts on Monday morning. he he advised I would be discharged. we didn't leave the hospital untal about 1:30 monday afternoon. all is good now just have to check my sugar 4 times a day now instead of 2 and need to drink a mixture potasium 3 times a day. my next adventure will take place on Jun 3, 2008 I get four or five teeth pulled to get ready for some false teeth for my bottom.. what fun!!!! lol. y tests and decided to keep me. come to find out part of my problem was I was quite acidic. they decided to keep me. they put me in icu. I was hooked to so many wires that if I didn't know better I was a sound board for a sound system. took sever naps that day. then on Sunday got visitors from friends and family. Saturday night My pastor and best friend Donnie cam for a visit. Sunday morning met with the doctor and he told I would be transfered to a different room. before his visit though they took an utrasound of my heart. I never had one and didn't kknow they did that. I

harvey update

many of you know about Harvey. well here is an update. Before the current emailI got about him he was doing well. He seemed to be speaking much clearer and was in a wheel chair. However the latest is he unresponsive and his blood sugar is running high. he is in icu. so please continue to pray. it is appreciated will keep you all posted as I hear things.

heaven

got this in my email and felt I had to share it. it is awesome

I Hold Clear Title"
  
  Some years ago radio evangelist Charles E. Fuller announced that he
would speak the following Sunday on "Heaven." It was to be broadcast on
radio. During that week he received a letter from an elderly gentleman who
was very ill.
  
  Here is part of that letter: "Next Sunday you are to talk about
'Heaven.' I am interested in that land because I have held a clear title to
a bit of property there for over 55 years. I did not buy it. It was given
to me without money and without price. But the donor purchased it for me at
a tremendous sacrifice.
  
  I am not holding it for speculation since the title is nontransferable.
It is not a vacant lot. For more than a half-century I have been sending
material out of which the greatest architect and builder of the universe
has been building a home for me, which will never need to be repaired
because it will suit me perfectly, individually, and will never grow old.
  
  Termites can never undermine its foundation for it rests upon the Rock
of Ages. Fire cannot destroy it. Floods cannot wash it away. No locks or
bolts will ever be placed upon its doors, for no vicious person can ever
enter that land where my dwelling stands, now almost completed and ready
for me to enter it and abide in peace eternally without fear of being
ejected.
  
  There is a valley of deep shadow between the place where I live in
California and that to which I shall journey in a very short time. I cannot
reach my home in the City of God without passing through the dark valley of
shadows. But I am not afraid, because the best friend that I have ever had
went through the same valley alone, a long, long, time ago and drove away
all the gloom. He has stuck by me through thick and thin since we first met
and became acquainted 55 years ago, and I hold His promise in printed form,
never to forsake nor to leave me alone. He will be with me as I walk
through the valley of shadows, and I shall not lose my way when He is with
me.
  
  I hope to hear your sermon on "Heaven" next Sunday from my home, but I
have no assurance that I shall be able to do so. My ticket to heaven has no
date marked for the journey... No return coupon... And no permit for
baggage.  Yes, I am ready to go and may not be here while you are talking
next Sunday, but I shall meet you there some day."
  
  DaviLangerfeld

 
"

for mom

here is something I received in my email and wanted to share with you.
MAMA/MOMMY/MOTHER/MOM 
This is a truly BEAUTIFUL piece please 
read this at a slow pace, digesting every word and in 
 leisure...do not hurry....this is a treasure... 
  For those lucky to still be blessed with your Mom, 
  this is beautiful. For those of us who aren't, this is 
  even more beautiful. For those who are moms, you'll love this. 
 The young mother set her foot on the path of life. "Is this the long way?"
she asked.   And the guide said:  "Yes, and the way is hard.  And you will
be 
old before you reach the end of it. But the end  will be better than the
beginning." 
  But the young mother was happy, and she would not 
  believe that  anything could be better than these years. So she 
  played with her children, and gathered flowers for 
  them along the way, and bathed them in the clear streams; and 
  the sun shone on them, and the young Mother cried, 
  "Nothing will ever be lovelier than this." 
  Then the night came, and the storm, and the path was 
  dark, and the children shook with fear and cold, and the mother 
  drew them close and covered them with her mantle, and the children said, 
"Mother, we are not afraid, for you are near, and no harm can come." 
  And the morning came, and there was a hill ahead, and 
  the children climbed and grew weary, and the mother was weary. 
  But at all times she said to the children," A little  patience and we are
there." 
  So the children climbed, and when they reached the top 
  they said, "Mother, we would not have done it without you." 
  And the mother, when she lay down at night looked up 
  at the stars and said, "This is a better day than the last, for my 
  children have learned fortitude in the face of hardness. Yesterday I gave
them courage 
Today, I 've given them strength." 
And the next day came strange clouds which darkened 
  the earth, clouds of war and hate and evil, and the children groped 
 and stumbled, and the mother said: "Look up. Lift your eyes to the light. 
" And the children looked and saw above the clouds 
  an everlasting glory, and it guided them beyond the 
  darkness. And that night the Mother said, 
"This is the best day of all, for 
  I have shown my children God" 
  And the days went on, and the weeks and the months and 
  the years, and the mother grew old and she was little and bent. 
  But her children were tall and strong, and walked with 
  courage.  And when the way was rough, they lifted her, 
  for she was as light as a feather; and at last they came to a hill, 
  and beyond they could see a shining road and golden gates flung wide And 
  mother said, "I have reached the end of my journey. And now I know the end 
is better than the beginning, for my children can 
  walk alone, and their children after them." 
  And the children said, "You will always walk with us, 
  Mother, even when you have gone through the gates." 
  And they stood  and  watched her as she went on alone, and the gates 
  closed after her.  And they said: "We cannot see her 
 but she is with us still. A Mother like ours is more than a memory.  She 
  is a living presence......." 
  Your Mother is always with you.... She's the whisper 
  of the leaves as you walk down the street; she's the smell of bleach 
  in your freshly laundered socks; she's the cool hand 
  on your brow when you're not well. Your Mother lives 
  inside your laughter. And she's crystallized in every tear drop. 
  She's the place you came from, your first home; and 
  she's the map you follow with every step you take. She's your first love 
  and your first heartbreak, and nothing on earth can 
  separate you. 
  Not time, not space... not even death! 
  

just reach out

Well as I ws laying here on my bed relaxing this afternoon words to a song by a gourp called petra ran through my head: :just reach out and he'll reach in. no matter who you are or where you've been. just reach out and he'll reachin." that is so true. all we need to do is reach out to Jesus and he'll reach in and clen up us up and give us peace. now is this easy? no!!! it is difficult because we often times things we have messed up way to many times to have it happen again. but let me assure you that it doesn't matter he'll always reach in and help us. is going to feel good. not always. sometimes it will hurt a little. I am mindful of molding clay. in order to make it look good after it is sculptured we have to put in a fire the fire is hot but the end result is beauty. for me now searching for a job is hard and challenging and it drives me mad and I wish it was done. but I am reaching out andknowing that he is reaching in and giving me his peace and guiding me. no matter where you are now I encourage you to do the same thing and see what happens. I love all you who are reading this and praying for you.

Ruthann

This year in Awana Ruthann did well. In fact!!! she finished her first book. She was in Sparkies this year. I am so proud of her. As you see from the photo's she is happy and is proud. not sure who is more proud of her accomplishment me or grandma and grandpa. it is awesome. This past Wensday night we had parents night at church. She got her ribbon for completing her book. she also got a certificate for perfect attendance. Earlier that evening at dinner dad asked me if I was going to be going. Before I could respond Ruthann spoke up and said that I was going with her to Sparkies because it was Parent night. She it with a smile. it is awesome to here her pray. she is so sweet and gentle when she prays. anytime I ask her who is in her heart? she responds God!!!! and at times I ask her who loves her more then I and and grandma and grandpa do sh says with out a doubt or hesitation God!! I cherish those moments and am proud. She is a big help to me at times. she is aware that I am blind sometimes she forgets but that is alright. as to my employment I am still awaiting to hear but that is another post altogether. this is all about Ruthann. will also post later about Harvey.